Consumption of the frog Hylarana nicobariensis Stoliczka, 1870 by a crab Parathelphusa pulcherrima (De Man, 1902), with a mini review of feeding on amphibians by crabs
Herpetozoa
We present a first record of feeding by the freshwater crab species, Parathelphusa pulcherrima on the frog species Hylarana nicobariensis (Ranidae) from Sabah (Borneo, Malaysia) together with a comprehensive review of crab predation on amphibians. A total of 32 crab species identifiable to 27 genera have been recorded to prey on frogs from at least 42 species in 35 genera, representing 21 families and one species of salamander to-date. The majority of the predation accounts were from the Neotropics and Afrotropics subcontinent.
["Borneo"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Taxonomic studies on Hygrophorus in China: New species and revised taxonomy
MycoKeys
A taxonomic revision of the genus Hygrophorus in China was conducted using integrated morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, the large subunit nuclear ribosomal RNA (nrLSU) and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) gene. Our study confirms the recognition of five new species as H. atropurpureus and H. ochraceodiscus in sect. Hygrophorus; H. paulus and H. shennongjiaensis in sect. Pudorini; and H. aurantiophyllus in sect. Vividi. Phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS data and the concatenated ITS + nrLSU + tef1-α dataset, demonstrated that H. atropurpureus groups with H. aff. atropurpureus; H. ochraceodiscus is sister to H. brunneodiscus; H. aurantiophyllus forms a clade with H. vividus and an undescribed taxon; and H. paulus and H. shennongjiaensis group together with H. nemoreus. Detailed morphological descriptions, ecological notes and updated geographical distribution records are provided for these new taxa as well as for several previously described species. These findings bring the total number of confirmed Hygrophorus taxa in China to 63, establishing a more robust framework for understanding the diversity of this genus in the region.
["Edible mushroom"]

Three lignicolous freshwater fungi of Neohelicomyces (Tubeufiales, Tubeufiaceae) from Guizhou Province, China
MycoKeys
Lignicolous freshwater fungi are key decomposers in freshwater ecosystems, playing crucial roles in nutrient cycling and energy flow. During investigations into microfungi in freshwater habitats in Guizhou Province, China, six specimens of Neohelicomyces were collected from submerged decaying wood. Detailed morphological examinations, together with multi-gene phylogenetic analyses based on LSU, ITS, rpb2 and LSU1-α sequence data, were conducted to clarify their taxonomic placements. Phylogenetic results revealed that these collections represent two novel species, N. brevis and N. wujiangensis, and one known species, N. astrictus, which is reported here as a new habitat record from a freshwater habitat. The two new species can be distinguished from their closest relatives by differences in conidiophore morphology, conidial size and septation, and colony characteristics, and are well supported as independent lineages in the phylogenetic analyses. This study expands the species diversity of Neohelicomyces and highlights freshwater ecosystems in southwestern China as important reservoirs of helicosporous hyphomycetes diversity.
["1 new record"]

Three novel species of Asterina (Asterinales, Dothideomycetes) from Hainan Province, China
MycoKeys
Asterina comprises obligate biotrophic fungal pathogens that form black colonies on the surface of living leaves and derive nutrients by penetrating host epidermal cells, often resulting in tissue damage. In this study, three new species of Asterina from Hainan Province, China, are described based on morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses (nrITS, nrLSU, and nrSSU), with phylogenetic relationships inferred by maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) to resolve their taxonomic placement. The new species Asterina breyniicola, A. heyneicola, and A. olaciphila were collected from living leaves of Breynia fruticosa, Heynea trijuga, and Olax scandens. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree illustrating their positions are provided. These findings expand the known diversity of Asterina and provide integrated morphological and molecular evidence to improve species delimitation and classification within Asterinaceae.
["Ascomycetes"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Plant Pathogen Control"]

Ornithoboea brachycarpa (Gesneriaceae), a new cave-dwelling species from Guangxi, China
PhytoKeys
Ornithoboea brachycarpa C.Xiong, F.Wen & Y.G.Wei, a new cave-dwelling species discovered in Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically distinctive within the genus by its stamens bearing a beard on the sterile projection, a character not observed in any other known species of Ornithoboea. Phylogenetic analysis of ITS and trnL-F sequences places it as sister to O. feddei (H.Lév.) B.L.Burtt. Currently, only one population comprising approximately 150–200 mature individuals has been confirmed at the type locality. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, it is provisionally assessed as Endangered (EN D).
["Flora of Guangxi"]

Ceropegia gengmaensis (Apocynaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
PhytoKeys
Ceropegia gengmaensis P.R.Luo, A.Liu & H.Sun, a new species from Gengma County, Yunnan, Southwest China, is described. Both morphological characteristics and chloroplast phylogenetic analysis strongly support its placement within C. sect. Chionopegia H.Huber. Molecular data further reveal that C. gengmaensis is closely related to C. salicifolia, C. mairei, and C. dolichophylla, yet it can be distinguished from them readily by its stem indumentum, leaf shape, and floral morphology, particularly the shape of the corolla tube, and features of the lobes. A detailed line drawing of this new species is also provided.
["Ceropegieae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Adenia sajoreciae (Passifloraceae), a new species from Kenya and its phylogenetic placement
PhytoKeys
A new species, Adenia sajoreciae (Passifloraceae), from Kenya is described and illustrated. It is morphologically related to A. ellenbeckii but differs by being glabrous on all parts, except on the perianth lobes of male and female flowers (vs. subglabrous to pubescent throughout), bearing entire spinose-dentate leaves without laminar glands (vs. entire to deeply palmately 3–7-lobed or pinnatifid leaves with laminar glands), narrower flowers (vs. broader flowers), and globose, smaller fruits (vs. subglobose to ellipsoid, larger fruits). The phylogenetic analysis of Adenia based on ITS sequences placed three accessions of A. sajoreciae in a strongly supported and well-resolved clade (bootstrap support (BS) = 100%; posterior probability (PP) = 1.00), which is sister to A. ellenbeckii (BS = 99%; PP = 1.00), within Adenia sect. Blepharanthes. Based on both morphological and molecular evidence, Adenia sajoreciae N.Wei, S.W.Wang, Kirika & Q.F.Wang is described as a new species. Additionally, an updated identification key for species in the genus Adenia in Kenya is provided.
["Africa"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Medicinal Plant Extracts Effects", "Growth and nutrition in plants"]

A new species of Phalacrostemma (Annelida, Sabellariidae) from the West Mariana Ridge, northwestern Pacific
ZooKeys
A new species of Phalacrostemma (Annelida, Sabellariidae) is described based on the specimens collected at a depth of 675 m on the Ritto Seamount of the West Mariana Ridge, northwestern Pacific. This record represents both the deepest occurrence of Sabellariidae in Japan and the first record of the genus Phalacrostemma from the region. Phalacrostemma ritto sp. nov. dwells in a tube made of small sand particles and foraminiferans, which is attached to the spines of a cidarid sea urchin. The new species is characterized by having 22–30 pairs of outer paleae arranged in a spiral, outer paleae with acute tips and compact thecae, one or two inner paleae in each row, 8–13 opercular papillae on each side, five pairs of nuchal hooks with curved tips, a pair of slender ventral lobes on the first chaetiger, a single pair of conical papillae on the second chaetiger, bilobed notopodia in the middle to posterior abdomen, and abdominal uncini bearing three rows of teeth. A phylogenetic analysis, which included the new species and the newly sequenced Idanthyrsus okudai and Sabellaria isumiensis and was based on sequences of four gene fragments (COI, 16S, 18S, and 28S), was conducted. The new species was nested within the fully supported Phalacrostemma clade and recovered as the sister taxon to Gesaia csiro, whereas support values for phylogenetic relationships among sabellariid species were generally low.
["Deep sea"]

Redescription of Damastes leo (Simon, 1903), comb. nov. (Araneae, Sparassidae) from Madagascar with first description of the male
ZooKeys
Damastes leo (Simon, 1903), comb. nov. (ex Megaloremmius) female is redescribed and the male is described for the first time. The species is endemic to Madagascar, and its range appears to be limited to remnants of the rainforest. The first COI record for the species is presented, and its distribution is analysed in detail using iNaturalist data.
["Distribution"]

Three new species of genus Onycholabis Bates, 1873 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Platynini) based on morphological and molecular data
ZooKeys
Three new species of the genus Onycholabis Bates, 1873 are described, O. hainanus Bolkiboev & Liang, sp. nov. from Hainan; O. tengjhihensis Bolkiboev & Liang, sp. nov., and O. cheni Bolkiboev & Liang, sp. nov. from Taiwan, based on morphological comparisons and molecular analyses. Illustrations of habitus and genitalia with distribution maps are presented for the new species. A key to the nine known Onycholabis species is compiled, and a phylogenetic tree based on the barcode COI is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A new deep-water scavenger species in the genus Caeconyx (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Lysianassoidea, Uristidae) from the Porcupine Abyssal Plain
Caeconyx papso sp. nov. within the family Uristidae is described from the Porcupine Abyssal Plain, Northeast Atlantic Ocean. The new species differs from the only other member of the genus, Caeconyx caeculus, in possessing a triangular, sub-acute eye lobe, a convex and broadly rounded posterodistal margin of epimeron 1, and propodi of pereopods 3 and 4 that are not slender or elongate. Molecular sequence data for COI, H3, 16S, and 28S genes are provided for C. papso sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using this sequence data to assess the relationships between the new species, other members of the family Uristidae, and morphologically allied taxa within the family Tryphosidae. The new species is fully illustrated, and a key to species within Caeconyx is presented.
["Abyss"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

An integrated taxonomic and conservation assessment of Glauconycteris (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in Cameroon, with the description of two new species from the Northwestern Congolian Lowland Forest
The genus Glauconycteris (Vespertilionidae) comprises small, forest-dependent bats distributed across sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its distinctive morphology, the genus remains poorly represented in collections and its taxonomy unresolved. During recent field surveys in southeastern Cameroon, ten Glauconycteris specimens were collected from the Northwestern Congolian Lowland Forest, eight from Lobéké National Park (LNP) and two from the Dja Biosphere Reserve (DBR). Morphometric and molecular analyses assigned these specimens to eight species, including representatives of three species groups (poensis, beatrix, and humeralis). One species, G. superba, is recorded for the first time from Cameroon and two are described herein as new to science, Glauconycteris baka sp. nov. and Glauconycteris lobeke sp. nov. These findings increase the total number of recognised Glauconycteris species to 15 and confirm that G. beatrix, as previously understood, represents a species complex, revealing further cryptic diversity within the genus. By combining taxonomic, ecological, and distributional data, our results indicate that most members of the genus tolerate moderate habitat degradation and that all 11 species recorded from Cameroon occur within or adjacent to at least one protected area. This study provides the first integrated taxonomic assessment of Glauconycteris in Cameroon, refines species distributions, and contributes additional ecological data for three species (G. gleni, G. egeria, and G. curryae) currently listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List. Our findings underscore the importance of continued sampling in the Guineo-Congolian region to better inform the conservation of Africa’s forest-dependent bats.
["Conservation status"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Insights into the Morphostenophanes (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) fauna of the Ailao Mountains: A new species, key, and distributional pattern of the sympatric species
Morphostenophanes ailaoshanensis sp. nov. is described, which is the fourth species distributed in the Ailao Mountains in Yunnan, China. Detailed illustrations of the habitus and diagnostic characters of the new species are provided. Furthermore, an identification key to all four Morphostenophanes species recorded in the Ailao Mountains is presented, supplemented by geographical and altitudinal distribution maps.
["China"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of the genus Morphostenophanes Pic, 1925 from Yunnan, China (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Stenochiinae, Cnodalonini)
Two new species of darkling beetles of the genus Morphostenophanes Pic, 1925 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Stenochiinae, Cnodalonini) are described from Yunnan, China: M. jiaoziensis sp. nov. and M. yangshijiani sp. nov. Additionally, the female of M. bannaensis Zhou, 2020 is described for the first time. A new species group, the yangshijiani group, is proposed. Distributional maps for the two new species and an updated key to the elegantulus and yangshijiani groups are provided. Moreover, intraspecific variant individuals of the two new species are described, and the geographical distribution, elevational ranges, and phenological differences of these species are discussed. The factors contributing to the differences in populations of M. jiaoziensis are analysed.
["Darkling beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new rain frog of the genus Pristimantis (Anura, Craugastoridae) from the Cordillera del Cóndor, southeastern Ecuador
A new species of Pristimantis is described from the Cordillera del Cóndor, Zamora Chinchipe Province, southeastern Ecuador, based on morphological and molecular data, Pristimantis etsa sp. nov. The new species is diagnosed from its congeners by the following combination of characters: female SVL 32.5 mm and male SVL 18.3 mm, dorsolateral folds formed by rows of subconical tubercles, strongly areolate ventral skin, two distinct rows of forearm tubercles, one along the ventrolateral margin and a second along the externolateral margin of the forearm, and a prominent yellow groin blotch in the female holotype. The species belongs to the Pristimantis cryptomelas group, part of the Huicundomantis subgenus, and is closely related to P. nangaritza, P. verrucosus, and P. plateado. Currently, the species is known only from its type locality, where it inhabits low montane evergreen forests at elevations of 1,655–1,830 m. Additionally, we discuss the use of the term “ulnar tubercles” in Pristimantis, noting that it may refer to tubercles occupying different positions on the forearm.
["Amphibia"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

A seasonal bird occurrence dataset from Karataş Lake (Burdur, Turkey) with associated NDVI and climate data, 2021 to 2022
Biodiversity Data Journal
Wetlands provide essential ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, water purification, flood mitigation and biodiversity support. Lake Karataş has been recognised as a Wildlife Development Area since 2006. However, it is experiencing reductions in water volume and habitat size due to insufficient rainfall, water source drying and intensive agricultural practices. This study assessed ecological changes and their effects on avian diversity using remote sensing, climate data and ornithological surveys.This dataset presents bird occurrence records from Lake Karataş (Burdur, Türkiye), derived from field surveys conducted in 2021–2022 using the point count method. The Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was derived from Sentinel-2 imagery (2017–2024) and climate data were sourced from TerraClimate. Species richness was estimated using the Jackknife method. Lake Karataş, a shallow system converted to a reservoir in 1982, is fed by the Sarıdere. In this study, 46 bird species were recorded, including the Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus, near threatened (NT)) and Common Pochard (Aythya ferina, vulnerable (VU)). Remote-sensing observations from 2017 to 2024 indicated agricultural expansion, wetland contraction and marked interannual variation in lake inundation. The summer season demonstrated the highest species richness (37 species) and abundance (3785 individuals) with an NDVI of 0.1418 and an average of 32.55°C, whereas autumn's peak NDVI (0.1482) resulted in only nine species. The findings suggest that integrating NDVI, climate metrics and bird diversity indicators is crucial for restoration planning, emphasising sustainable agriculture and water management to restore ecosystem services.
["bird diversity"]

The stoneflies (Plecoptera) of West Virginia: a new occurrence dataset
Biodiversity Data Journal
Doddridge County, West Virginia, United States
Randolph County, West Virginia, United States
Pendleton County, West Virginia, United States
Preston County, West Virginia, United States
Jefferson County, West Virginia, United States
West Virginia, United States
Stoneflies are a relatively small order of insects comprising over 4,200 extant, described species. They have long been recognised as valuable indicators of water quality, since nymphs are dependent on clean water conditions and are sensitive to the effects of sedimentation and pollution. It is also well-documented that stonefly species around the world have suffered contractions in range, leading, in some cases, to local extirpation or extinction. West Virginia is home to high stonefly species richness relative to most other USA (United States of America) states. Despite this diversity, the available literature is scattered and occurrence datasets supported by voucher specimens are non-existent. Funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a consortium of northeastern USA states has provided an opportunity to document the stonefly fauna of West Virginia, especially for state and regional species of conservation interest, by gathering specimen-based occurrence data from museums, collecting new specimens statewide, and compiling trusted literature records into a single statewide dataset. Our hope is that the records presented in this data paper will further the understanding of stonefly species distribution in West Virginia and the eastern USA in general, and provide conservation agencies with usable temporal and locality data. These data will be used as the basis of an upcoming distribution atlas and annotated checklist of the stoneflies of West Virginia.Our dataset brings together over 4,500 stonefly records from all 55 counties in West Virginia. These records, spanning the previous 134 years, have been contributed by 17 institutions and personal collections. Through new collecting and the examination of museum specimens, we have been able to verify the presence of 150 species, with representatives from all nine eastern North American families. Fourteen species previously recorded from West Virginia, comprising seven Perlodidae, six Perlidae and one Chloroperlidae, have not been recovered. Most of these absences can be accounted for by changes in taxonomic nomenclature. In addition to 140 species already known from the state, we report the presence of 11 new state records, including four Perlidae, three Perlodidae, two Capniidae, one Leuctridae and one Nemouridae.
["stoneflies"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Environmental drivers of Odonate assemblages across biogeographic provinces in the Mexican Transition Zone
Biodiversity Data Journal
Tianguistengo, Hidalgo, Mexico
Agua Blanca de Iturbide, Hidalgo, Mexico
Cuautepec de Hinojosa, Hidalgo, 43740, Mexico
Apan, Hidalgo, 43900, Mexico
Huautla, Hidalgo, 43050, Mexico
Huehuetla, Hidalgo, Mexico
Tasquillo, Hidalgo, Mexico
Tecozautla, Hidalgo, Mexico
Hidalgo, Mexico
This study shows how the different environments and biogeographical provinces in the Mexican Transition Zone influence the structure of odonate communities. Through sampling conducted in 2024 across lentic and lotic habitats in a representative area where four biogeographic provinces converge, habitats were compared by recording physicochemical water parameters and climate conditions. The results revealed that species richness did not vary significantly between habitat types (lentic vs. lotic), but showed marked differences at the biogeographical scale, with the arid and semi-arid zones being the most diverse and high elevations having the lowest species richness. Beta diversity analysis indicated higher turnover than nestedness, suggesting that each region hosts a unique fauna adapted to specific conditions. Environmental variables, such as air and water temperatures and humidity played a crucial role, differentially affecting suborders: Anisoptera showed a greater capacity for dispersal and were more affected by landscape-level, while Zygoptera exhibited higher sensitivity to local factors. We concluded that environmental heterogeneity and biogeographical factors are determinants of odonate biodiversity in the region, with Anisoptera following a classical hierarchical community assembly mechanism and Zygoptera is being influenced and limited by the filter created by environmental factors. It is imperative to implement conservation strategies that protect connectivity and integrity of waterbodies to preserve this unique biological heritage.
["conservation"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Description of a new species of the orb-weaver spider genus Zangaraneus Mi, Wang & Feng, 2026 (Araneae, Araneidae) from China
Shennongjia, Hubei, 442400, China
Wuxi County, Chongqing, China
China
The orb-weaver spider genus Zangaraneus Mi, Wang & Feng, 2026 contains four species known only from Xizang, China. In our recent study, the fifth species has been found and is described herein.A new species of the genus Zangaraneus from central China is described: Zangaraneus zhishengi sp. nov. (♂♀). Diagnostic photos of habitus and copulatory organs are provided.
["Arachnida"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Three new species of Entomobryidae (Collembola) from Romania, including a synanthropic Willowsia species
This study describes three new species of Palaearctic Collembola—Entomobrya cezarae sp. nov., E. antoniae sp. nov., and Willowsia solanella sp. nov.—collected in Romania. The genus Entomobrya, one of the most diverse and taxonomically challenging groups of Collembola, has long been affected by incomplete historical descriptions. Recent advances in macrochaetotaxy-based methodologies, particularly those developed by Jordana and collaborators, have significantly improved species diagnoses and clarified the taxonomy of the tribe Entomobryini. In addition, recent global revisions further emphasize the need for standardized morphological terminology. The genus Willowsia, comprising 44 species with a worldwide distribution and characterized by distinctive scales, is here supplemented by the description of a new species. These findings contribute to a more robust understanding of the diversity of Palaearctic Entomobryidae.
["Chaetotaxy"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Descriptions of two new species of Spartaeus Thorell, 1891 (Araneae, Salticidae, Spartaeinae) from southern China
Two new species of Spartaeus Thorell, 1891 from southern China are described: S. yingdeensis sp. nov. (♂♀) from Guangdong Province and S. rotiscutus sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan Province. Diagnostic illustrations and photographs are provided.
["Jumping spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Deep-water lymnaeid gastropods (Hygrophila) of Lake Pannon (Late Miocene, Central Europe): taxonomy and biostratigraphic significance
In the present study, a distinctive lineage of lymnaeid gastropods from the deep-water deposits of the Late Miocene Lake Pannon (Central Europe) is revised. The examined material includes specimens from museum collections as well as newly collected fossils from different parts of the Pannonian Basin System. During the past 150 years, at least 30 deep-water lymnaeid species assigned to ten genera have been described from the Lake Pannon deposits; however, our examination of more than 700 specimens shows that these records represent only 11 species belonging to five genera. Lectotypes are designated for four species for which earlier type designations were invalid. Species belonging to the Radix–Velutinopsis–Undulotheca–Provalenciennesia–Valenciennius lineage form one of the most extraordinary molluscan groups of Lake Pannon. Their interest lies in their distinctive shell morphology – large (sometimes exceeding 10 cm), wide, thin, cap-like shells with reduced coiling and undulated ribs – and their deep-water mode of life, supported by occurrences in drill cores and bathymetrically calibrated by seismic sections. This taxonomic revision enables the lineage to be applied in deep-water biostratigraphy of Lake Pannon sediments. Based on first appearance datums of key lineage species and associated taxa from other mollusc groups, four new lineage zones are proposed, integrated with the established deep-water mollusc biozonation. In contrast to the anagenetic evolutionary patterns typical of biostratigraphically important Lake Pannon bivalves, this gastropod lineage shows predominantly anacladogenetic speciation.
["Anacladogenesis"]
["Geological Formations and Processes Exploration", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Breviconia acuminata sp. nov. (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Ancorabolidae), a rare benthic copepod species with a small distribution range at the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula (Southern Ocean), including some phylogenetic remarks
Meiofauna samples were collected using the multicorer during three FS POLARSTERN research expeditions to the Southern Ocean between 2013 and 2019. The samples yielded, among other representatives of the Copepoda Harpacticoida, 11 individuals of a previously unknown species of the Ancorabolidae Sars. The six males and five females could be assigned to the genus Breviconia Conroy-Dalton & Huys, within which they form a separate species. Breviconia acuminata sp. nov. differs from the two already known species B. australis (George) from the Beagle Channel (Chile) and B. andrei Garlitska, George & Chertoprud from the Barents Sea (Russia) in the following autapomorphies: (i) the female antennule has only nine setae on the last segment instead of ten, (ii) the inner apical seta on P2 enp2 is strongly shortened and only reaches half the length of the outer apical seta. In addition to the detailed description of the new species, a morphologically based comparison with the taxa Arthropsyllus Sars and Uptionyx Conroy-Dalton & Huys confirmed the monophyletic status of Breviconia. A key to the Breviconia species is also provided. Breviconia acuminata sp. nov. has a very limited distribution range. To date, it has only been found on the continental shelf at the northernmost tip of the Antarctic Peninsula and on the continental slope in Bransfield Strait, at depths between 420 and 750 metres. The sediments at the stations where the new species was found were characterised by low bottom temperatures, a high silt and clay content (84–89%), and high pigment content, indicating a high food availability.
["Endemic"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A new freshwater snail genus of Squamapicidae (Gastropoda, Truncatelloidea) with a novel posterior respiratory canal unveils an unexpected morphological innovation
Highly ornamented protoconchs and a developed posterior canal are exceptionally rare and unique shell characteristics in strict freshwater gastropods. This study combines morphological and molecular phylogenetic approaches to describe a new genus and species within the Squamapicidae family that possesses the characteristic of a highly ornamented protoconch: Canglangia heyuemingi H. Zheng, H.-Q. Xiang, L.-J. Zhang & X.-P. Wu, gen. et sp. nov. Through the observation and cultivation of three species of freshwater snails with highly ornamented protoconchs from Yunnan, it was found that the formation and function of the highly ornamented protoconch vary across different species. The role of the posterior canal is discussed by examining the habitat of C. heyuemingi gen. et sp. nov.
["Convergent evolution"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Early-life histories, morphological development, and dichotomous keys of seven wild mouth-brooding fighting fish species (Actinopterygii, Osphronemidae)
Within the family Osphronemidae, mouth-brooding fighting fishes are small, air-breathing fish species that hold their eggs and offspring in their buccal cavities as a parental care behavior, usually found in running waters and distributed in the wild throughout Southeast Asia. This study aims to describe the morphological development and generate identification keys for the larval and juvenile stages of seven wild mouth-brooding fighting fish species found in Thailand, i.e., Betta apollon, B. ferox, B. pallida, B. pi, B. prima, B. pugnax, and B. simplex from the wild. The broodstocks were collected from type localities or based on characteristics that most closely matched each species description, with healthy fishes selected and breeding continued for our size-series collection, including B. simplex, a previous study. The results showed that mouth-brooders released their offspring when developed to the post-flexion stage within 11–12 (mode = 11) days after fertilization (DAF), except B. pi, which took 18–20 DAF, and the post-flexion larva developed to the juvenile stage within 18–30 days after release. The main characteristics of the new-release post-flexion larva were an oblong and depressed body, a large head, an oval to rounded eye, and rays where the caudal fin began to develop, as well as having fully developed ventral fins with two or three dorsal, central, and ventral stripes and a caudal spot. Myomere numbers and fin rays differed among species across a range of 8–10 dorsal, 10–13 pectoral, 6 ventral, 24–31 anal, and 10–13 caudal fin rays. Diagnostic characters were selected to create a dichotomous identification key, with an illustration provided. In terms of taxonomy, the different larval stages also differed in pigmentation patterns among species, with pigmentation patterns on head (pre-orbital, sub-orbital, post-orbital, and sub-opercular bands) and longitudinal stripes on the side of the body able to be used to distinguish among different development stages as well as different species.
["Betta"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A new species of Laophontella Thompson IC & Scott A, 1903 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Tetragonicipitidae) from Korea, with notes on copepodid V stage
A new species of the benthic harpacticoid genus Laophontella Thompson IC & Scott A, 1903 (Tetragonicipitidae), collected from intertidal habitats along the coast of Korea, is described. Laophontella changi sp. nov. is clearly distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characters: a seven-segmented female antennule, a ventral cuticular expansion with an undulating edge on the first free abdominal somite of females, a C-shaped proximal dorsolateral expansion and auriform lateral elevation on the caudal rami of females, a markedly elongate inner seta on P4 exp-2, and a hoe-shaped outer spine on the P3 endopod of males. The copepodid V stage is also described, allowing assessment of developmental changes and the retention of morphological characters. Detailed morphological examination reveals previously overlooked characters with potential diagnostic value at both the genus and species levels.
["Copepodid V stage"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Four new species of Pachymerium centipedes from China (Geophilomorpha, Geophilidae)
The genus Pachymerium is nearly cosmopolitan and exhibits considerable dispersal capacity among geophilomorph centipedes. However, its taxonomic study in China remains notably inadequate. Based on specimens resembling Pachymerium collected from 23 provincial-level administrative regions across China, this study confirms the occurrence of five species of Pachymerium in China, four of which are newly described: P. dimorphum sp. nov., P. proximiporum sp. nov., P. multiseriale sp. nov. and P. lingshouense sp. nov. A key to species of genus Pachymerium is provided.
["Description"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Luffy gen. nov., a new genus of Staphylinina (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae), remarkable for understanding the Eucibdelus lineage
We describe and illustrate a new genus of Staphylinina, Luffy gen. nov., with two new species: L. schillhammeri sp. nov. from Yunnan, China, and L. nika sp. nov. from northern Laos. The new genus is placed within the Ocypus-group and is hypothesized to be sister to the Eucibdelus lineage. The synapomorphic characters of the Eucibdelus lineage are discussed, and its diagnosis is updated.
["New species"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Lessons from the slide preparation: A new species of Kaluginia (Diptera, Chironomidae) from China
Kaluginia wangi sp. nov., collected from China, is described and illustrated. The species belongs to the tribe Boreoheptagyiini (Diamesinae). The genus Kaluginia is newly recorded from China. Phylogenetic analyses based on five molecular markers (18S, 28S, CAD, COI-5p, and COI-3p) confirm the new species belongs to a highly supported clade together with the known species Kaluginia lebetiformis. Morphologically, the two species are somewhat similar but can be distinguished by the number of antennal flagellomeres, and the structure of the hypopygium. Through careful slide preparation of the holotype and integrated morphological and molecular cross-validation, this study revealed that variations in slide-mounting techniques can produce morphological artifacts, thereby directly affecting taxonomic conclusions. These findings highlight that for taxa characterized by fine morphological structures, meticulous slide preparation and thorough verification are essential for ensuring robust taxonomic outcomes.
["Boreoheptagyiini"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Blaberidae (Blattodea) of Madre de Dios, Peru and a key to Epilamprinae s. s.
Significant progress has been made in the cockroach faunistics of some South American countries (i.e., Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia, and the Guiana shield) during the last 25 years while the Peruvian fauna has remained almost entirely understudied. The Peruvian Amazonia is recognized as having one of the most biodiverse and endemic faunas in the world. Yet, this is not reflected in the relatively depauperate species list of cockroaches from Peru. We partially rectify this knowledge gap by providing a thorough report on the Blaberidae of the department of Madre De Dios and an updated checklist of Blaberidae of Peru. To accomplish this, we conducted a partial revision of Epilamprinae sensu stricto, accompanied with a diagnostic key and visual guide that distinguishes all Peruvian genera, and most other genera, based on male sexual morphology. This includes the description of one new species group, five newly described species of Epilampra (E. yompori, E. homage, E. wandpero, E. sofia, E. paititi), and three potential new species not described due to taxonomic uncertainty (E. conferta “placa”, E. conferta “barra”, E. sp. cf. azteca ). Additionally, we described a new species, Lanxoblatta patriciae sp. nov., and the first new species of Phoetalia, P. amigo sp. nov. in 160 years. We also provided new country records of three existing taxa, one of them (Hyporhicnoda humilior Hebard, 1933) for the whole South America. Overall, we provided a checklist to the 30 species of Blaberidae in Madre De Dios, bringing the count for all of Peru up to 39.
["Amazon"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology"]

Two new cave-dwelling species of Triplophysa (Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae) from Guizhou, China
Two new cave-dwelling species, Triplophysa zhijinensis sp. nov. and Triplophysa dafangensis sp. nov., are described from karst caves in Guizhou Province, southwestern China. Triplophysa zhijinensis sp. nov. is distinguished from other hypogean congeners by body scaleless, dorsal with pigment spots, lateral line complete; eye degenerated into small black spot or disappears, anterior nostril with barbel-like tip; distal margin of dorsal fin truncate; tip of pelvic fin not reaching to anus. Triplophysa dafangensis sp. nov. is distinguished from other hypogean congeners by body naked, without skin pigmentation, lateral line complete; eye reduced, with diameter of head length 5.3–7.1%; outer rostral barbel reaching to or beyond posterior margin of posterior nostrils; distal margin of dorsal fin truncate; tip of pectoral fin not reaching to pelvic-fin origin. To further validate their taxonomic status, mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cyt b) gene sequences were used to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships and assess genetic distances. The molecular data corroborate the morphological findings and support the recognition of both species as distinct evolutionary lineages. These discoveries highlight the underestimated diversity of Triplophysa in subterranean habitats and emphasize the ecological importance of karst groundwater systems as sheltered habitats for specialized cave-adapted fauna.
["Biospeology"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Systematics of the Calotes irawadi complex (Squamata, Agamidae) with two newly described species from Thailand
Two new species of Calotes lizards, C. thailandensis sp. nov. and C. maehongsonensis sp. nov., are diagnosed and described from Thailand. These new species are most closely related to C. irawadi and C. wangi, which are members of the C. irawadi complex, supported by phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA data (ND2 and COI genes) coupled with morphometric and osteological data. Calotes thailandensis sp. nov. and C. maehongsonensis sp. nov. are distinguished from true C. irawadi by having a wider PelvW, but a smaller head size in adult males. In particular, adult males of C. thailandensis sp. nov. obviously differ from both C. irawadi and C. wangi by having a longer supratympanic spine, whereas C. maehongsonensis sp. nov. has a distinctly longer hindlimb than that of C. irawadi and C. wangi. As a result, two new species increase the list of known Calotes species in Thailand to four species; C. thailandensis sp. nov., C. maehongsonensis sp. nov., C. emma and C. goetzi.
["Morphometric analysis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Description of a new Andean species of widow spider (Araneae, Theridiidae, Latrodectus)
We describe a new species of widow spider (Araneae, Theridiidae, Latrodectus) from the Andean region. DNA barcode sequences are provided. The species is documented from museum specimens across Peru and identified from photographs on iNaturalist, extending its inferred distribution into Ecuador, Bolivia, and Chile. We integrate specimen and citizen-science occurrences to generate a species distribution model using WorldClim bioclimatic variables, predicting highest suitability along temperate to high-elevation Andean regions. We discuss the utility and limitations of citizen-science imagery for delimiting and mapping species and summarize available information on clinical aspects of envenomation in Peru associated with the local “lucacha” widow spider.
["Andes"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Revised diagnosis of the flathead genus Elates (Teleostei, Platycephalidae) and description of a new species collected from a fish market near Sarangani Bay, Philippines
We revise the diagnosis of the flathead genus Elates Jordan & Seale, 1907 and describe a new species based on specimens purchased from a fish market in the southern Philippines. The new species differs from the only previously valid species in the genus, Elates ransonnettii (Steindachner, 1876), in having a large eye, a broad lateral vomerine tooth patch, a medial vomerine tooth patch, two pores on each lateral-line scale, a greater number of scale rows above the lateral line, an absence of a filamentous ray extending from the upper lobe of the caudal fin, a transparent dorsal-fin membrane with no dark pigmentation, and a wholly dark peritoneum. Analysis of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) data supports both genetic differentiation between E. ransonnettii and the new species as well as monophyly of the genus Elates. The new species is known only from specimens purchased in the General Santos Public Market in General Santos City caught in Sarangani Bay, in contrast to E. ransonnettii, which is broadly distributed in the western Pacific Ocean to the Malacca Strait and Andaman Sea.
["Biodiversity"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

New taxa of Camaenidae from northern Vietnam (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora)
The following new taxa are described from northern Vietnam: Fansipanica milae Páll-Gergely & Dedov, gen et sp. nov., Ducanhia Páll-Gergely, gen. nov. (type species: Helix balansai Morlet, 1886), Vinatachea porcellana Páll-Gergely, sp. nov. The reproductive anatomy of all three species is described. Helix (Chloritis) gereti Bavay & Dautzenberg, 1900 is moved to Fansipanica gen nov., and Camaena delsaerdti Thach & F. Huber, 2018 is moved to Vinatachea.
["Anatomy"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Rhinogobius mengyangensis : a new species of freshwater goby (Teleostei, Gobiidae) from Sichuan Province, southwestern China
A new species of freshwater goby, Rhinogobius mengyangensis sp. nov., is described from the upper Changjiang River basin in Sichuan Province, China, based on comparative morphology and molecular phylogeny. The new species is sister to Rhinogobius szechuanensis Tchang, 1939 and can be distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characters: absence of sensory canals and pores on head; cheeks and operculum without spots or stripes; second dorsal fin with 9–11 longitudinal rows of inverted V-shaped or dash-like brown markings; incomplete brownish edges on flank scales below second dorsal fin; branchiostegal membrane bright yellow.
["Biodiversity"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Anapleus pescheli, a new endogean species from Italy and Greece with the key to Western Palaearctic species (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Dendrophilinae, Anapleini)
Anapleus pescheli sp. nov. (Italy: Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, Sicilia; Greece: Central Greece, Peloponnesus) is herein described and figured and compared to three congeners from the Western Palaearctic Region. A key to species is given. Anapleus raddei (Reitter, 1877) is newly reported from Northern Macedonia and Anapleus jelineki Olexa, 1982 is new to Azerbaijan.
["Endogean fauna"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Huntsman spiders of the genus Sinopoda (Araneae, Sparassidae, Heteropodinae) from the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwestern China, with descriptions of two new species
Spiders of the genus Sinopoda Jäger, 1999 from Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China are studied. A total of four species are reported and illustrated of which two, Sinopoda honghe Yu & Zhong, sp. nov. and Sinopoda kuan Yu & Zhong, sp. nov., are described as new to science. The other two previously described species from this region: S. tengchongensis Fu & Zhu, 2008 and S. tumefacta Zhong, Jäger, Chen & Liu, 2019 are also illustrated. Detailed descriptions, diagnoses, illustrations and DNA barcodes of the two new species are given. A distribution map of these four species in Honghe is provided.
["Biodiversity"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Silk-based biomaterials and applications"]

Two new species and new records of the genus Pinopellis Assing, 2022 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from China
New morphological, taxonomic, and faunistic data on the genus Pinopellis Assing, 2022 from China are provided. Two new species of Pinopellis are described: P. liaoi sp. nov. (Guangdong: Shaoguan) and P. yini sp. nov. (Xizang: Medog). Pinopellis biexcisa Assing, 2022 is recorded from China for the first time. New provincial records are provided for P. nigripes (Cameron, 1914) from Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Xizang, and for P. yunnanica Assing, 2022 from Guangdong. Two unidentified species were recorded, and the previously unknown female of P. yunnanica is described for the first time. A key to the Pinopellis species from China is given.
["Distribution"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Mus (Pyromys) dumbara, a new endemic species of spiny mouse (Mammalia, Rodentia, Muridae) from Sri Lanka
A new species of spiny mouse, Mus (Pyromys) dumbara sp. nov., is described from the Dumbara (Knuckles) Mountain Range in Sri Lanka, based on an integrated assessment of external morphology, cranial characteristics, mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequence data. This species is assigned to the subgenus Pyromys on the basis of two defining cranial characteristics: the presence of a supraorbital ridge and incisive foramina that extend to the mid-length of first upper molar. Mus dumbara sp. nov. is characterised by a tail distinctly longer than its combined head and body length and a moderately prominent supraorbital ridge which is clearer at the junction between parietal and frontal upon the orbit. There are several other external and cranial characteristics which can be used to distinguish M. dumbara sp. nov. from each pyromys species. Genetic analysis further confirms the distinctiveness of M. dumbara sp. nov. Mitochondrial cytochrome-b sequences reveal deep divergence from other Sri Lankan spiny mice (M. mayori and M. fernandoni), with uncorrected pairwise genetic distances exceeding 11.7%. This level of genetic separation, combined with its distinctive morphology and geographically restricted distribution in the Dumbara valley, provides strong evidence for its status as a new species endemic to Sri Lanka.
["Coelomys"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Morphological variations and asymmetry"]

A new species of Odorrana (Anura, Ranidae) from the limestone karst forest of northern Vietnam
A new species of Odorrana is described from the limestone karst forest in northern Vietnam based on morphological differences and molecular divergence. Morphologically, Odorrana nagao sp. nov. is distinguishable from its congeners by the following combination of characteristics: size medium (SVL 37.4 mm in male, 47.1–54.7 mm in females); head longer than wide; tympanum distinct, round, ~50% of the diameter of eye; vomerine teeth present; males without external vocal sac; nuptial pad present on finger I in males; webbing formula I0–1II0–1III0–11/3IV11/3–1/4V; tibio-tarsal articulation reaching the tip of snout when hindlimb adpressed along body; dorsolateral conical spines present; dorsolateral fold present; dorsum moss-green with brown mottling; ventral surface cream with dark brown mottling. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI gene sequences supported the new species as a sister taxon to an unresolved clade consisting of Odorrana calciphila, O. concelata, O. feii, O. liboensis and O. lipuensis (UFB = 98, PP = 1). The uncorrected p-distances of 16S rRNA and COI genes between the new species and its closest congeners were 2.33% and 6.33%, respectively.
["Karst forest"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Three new macropterous species, and additional records, of Oedichirus Erichson, 1839 from China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Three new macropterous species of the genus Oedichirus Erichson, 1839 from China, are described and illustrated: O. acutus Tang & Peng, sp. nov. (Libo, Guizhou), O. biwenxuani Tang & Peng, sp. nov. (Yingjiang, Yunnan) and O. excisus Tang & Peng, sp. nov. (Qujing, Yunnan). Oedichirus laoticus Rougemont, 2018 is reported from China for the first time. Additional provincial records are provided: O. chapmani Cameron, 1940 from Hubei, Guangdong and Yunnan; O. longipennis Kraatz, 1859 from Zhejiang, Guangdong and Hainan; and O. ovalisis Duan, Yue & Li, 2024 from Guangxi. A key to the macropterous species from China is provided.
["China"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Eight new species of Deltochilum Eschscholtz, 1822 (subgenus D. Deltohyboma Lane, 1946) from the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia and Venezuelan Andes (Coleoptera, Scarabaeinae, plebejum species group)
The Neotropical genus Deltochilum Eschscholtz, 1822, is one of the most speciose genera in the tribe Deltochilini. This genus of dung beetles (Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) is divided into eight subgenera. The subgenus D. Deltohyboma Lane, 1946, with 51 valid species, is the most diverse in the genus and was recently divided into 19 species groups. This paper presents the description of eight new species from the plebejum species group: Deltochilum tyba sp. nov., D. pseudoabdominale sp. nov., D. parapseudoabdominale sp. nov., D. picachos sp. nov., D. pauxi sp. nov., D. altiventris sp. nov., D. ventripuncturatus sp. nov., and D. nobile sp. nov. These species are distributed along the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia and the Venezuelan Andes, with one species also found in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (Colombia). The lectotype for D. plebejum Balthasar, 1939 is designated herein. Three identification keys (for major males, minor and medium-sized males, and females), along with descriptions, photographs, and distribution maps are presented for all species. Additionally, redescriptions of D. plebejum and D. abdominale Martínez, 1947, originally included in this species group, are presented. With these new species, the number of valid species in the subgenus D. Deltohyboma reaches 59.
["Deltochilini"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

An insight into the molecular identity and distribution of Microhyla taraiensis (Anura, Microhylidae) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
The taxonomic identity and distribution of Pakistan’s Microhyla in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has not been confirmed at species level using molecular data; historical records relied on morphology alone and often referred to the now-restricted M. ornata. A combination of field surveys, morphology, bioacoustics, and mitochondrial DNA was utilized to confirm species identity and map the distribution of Microhyla taraiensis in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. 125 individuals were collected in 13 districts spanning three climatic zones (arid, semi-arid, and hilly/temperate) from lowland plains to lower montane elevations. Adults and tadpoles were examined morphologically; advertisement calls were recorded from one male; and mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI fragments were sequenced and analyzed with maximum-likelihood phylogenetics. Three COI sequences from Pakistan were identical to one another and matched the M. taraiensis mitogenome from Nepal, and the 16S sequence formed a well-supported clade with Nepalese M. taraiensis, distinct from M. ornata and M. nilphamariensis. Verified records document M. taraiensis at 19 localities in KP, primarily in shallow, human-modified wetlands (paddy fields, irrigation channels, roadside ditches, floodplain ponds), indicating a wider western distribution along the Himalayan foreland than previously documented. These data constitute the first genetically validated records of M. taraiensis in Pakistan, refine regional biogeography at the Indomalayan–Palearctic boundary, and provide a baseline for future genomic, acoustic, and ecological work. Future efforts should pair genome-scale markers with temperature-standardized call libraries, denser spatial sampling, and curated vouchers to assess population structure, refine range limits, and evaluate potential contact with congeners.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Integrative taxonomy reveals previously undescribed diversity within the Gloydius himalayanus complex (Squamata, Viperidae, Crotalinae) from the Himalaya and Hindu Kush
The Himalaya and Hindu Kush remain among the least scientifically explored mountain regions of Asia. Within their vertebrate fauna, pitvipers of the Gloydius himalayanus (Günther, 1864) complex have long presented taxonomic challenges due to limited sampling in remote areas and the absence of integrative analyses. Here, we present a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the G. himalayanus complex using an integrative framework that combines genetic and distributional data, external morphology, osteology, and ecological evidence. Our dataset also uniquely incorporates both newly collected material and DNA sequences obtained from 19th- and early 20th-century museum specimens, including one of the syntypes of G. himalayanus (BMNH 1946.1.19.64), underscoring the enduring value of historical collections in modern taxonomy. Analyses of four mitochondrial and three nuclear genes from populations across the western and central Himalaya and the Hindu Kush, many of which were genetically studied for the first time, recover five well-supported monophyletic lineages: G. himalayanus sensu stricto, G. chambensis, and three previously unrecognised lineages from the Hindu Kush of north-western Pakistan, the Hazara region of north-eastern Pakistan at the western margin of the Himalaya, and the Himalaya of western and central Nepal. Genetic distances in protein-coding mtDNA markers indicate species-level divergence among these lineages, ranging from 9.2–12.6% in cyt b and 8.1–14.1% in ND4, with additional support from partial allelic differentiation in phased nuclear markers, morphology, and osteology. Based on these results, we formally describe three new species, substantially expanding the known diversity of Gloydius along the southern Himalaya. To stabilise the nomenclature, we designate a lectotype for Halys himalayanus Günther. By integrating modern and historical data, this study demonstrates the lasting scientific relevance of natural history collections and emphasises the urgent need for conservation of these narrowly distributed and potentially regionally threatened mountain snakes.
["Integrative taxonomy"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Three new Hutufeideria Hirschmann & Hiramatsu, 1977 from Southeast Asia, with the description of Hutufeideriidae fam. nov. (Acari, Mesostigmata)
Three new species of the genus Hutufeideria are described from the Oriental region. The first species, H. perakensis sp. nov., was collected in Malaysia and differs from its congeners in the presence of a strongly sclerotized furrow on the dorsal shield and very long setae on the central area of the dorsal shield. The second species, H. sarawakensis sp. nov., was found in Sarawak (Malaysia) and differs from other species of the genus in the shape of the setae on the caudal part of the dorsal shield and the shape of the female genital shield. The third species, H. sumatraensis sp. nov., was collected from Sumatra (Indonesia) and has a tile-like sculptural pattern on the ventral shield; the dorsal shield is covered with large and irregular pits, and bears serrate setae on the caudal margins of the dorsal shield; these represent a unique character combination within the genus. Hutufeideriidae fam. nov. is diagnosed, with Hutufeideria as the type genus. A list of known species is provided.
["Indonesia"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

The pill millipede genus Rhopalomeris Verhoeff, 1906 new to the fauna of China, with an integrative description of a new species from Guangdong Province (Diplopoda, Glomerida, Glomeridae)
The order Glomerida (pill millipedes) represents a group of terrestrial invertebrates of high ecological and taxonomic significance, yet its diversity and distribution in China remain poorly documented. Employing an integrative taxonomic approach that combines traditional morphological examination with COI gene sequence analysis, this study describes a new species of the genus Rhopalomeris, R. dinghushan sp. nov., collected from Dinghushan National Nature Reserve, Guangdong Province. This discovery represents the first formal record of the genus Rhopalomeris from China, thereby filling in a major distributional gap for this endemic Oriental genus and extending its known range north of Indochina to southern China. Phylogenetic analyses based on COI sequences, using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference, reveal that the genus as currently circumscribed seems to be polyphyletic. The new species, R. dinghushan sp. nov., forms a well-supported clade together with Peplomeris magna, challenging the current generic delimitation and highlighting the need for a comprehensive revision of the genus.
["China"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Mitogenomic phylogeny of Truncatelloidea with description of Aenigmula sinensis Tang, Han & Kong, sp. nov. (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Littorinimorpha, Truncatelloidea)
Truncatelloidea is the richest and most diverse group within Mollusca. Both morphological and molecular studies have sought to resolve its phylogenetic framework; however, the phylogenetic relationships among some lineages remain controversial. To explore the phylogenetic relationships within Truncatelloidea, this study presents a mitochondrial phylogenomic framework, reconstructed from a dataset integrating 15 newly sequenced mitochondrial genomes with existing data from NCBI and encompassing 20 genera from 11 families. Both maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses supported that the superfamily was resolved into two major clades (I and II). Within Clade I, Assimineidae and Stenothyridae form a sister group, while Baicaliidae and Bithyniidae are distantly related to the remaining families. Within Clade II, Aenigmula and Clenchiellidae form a sister group, with Iravadiidae occupying the most basal position. Furthermore, the monophyly of all other families and genera is strongly supported except for Assiminea within Assimineidae. Additionally, based on morphological observations, phylogenetic analyses of COI, 16S rRNA, and 28S rRNA gene fragments, species delimitation methods (ABGD, ASAP, bPTP), and genetic distance calculations of the collected Truncatelloidea specimens, a new species, Aenigmula sinensis sp. nov., was identified and described, while an undetermined species, Aenigmula sp., was recorded. The findings strongly support the recognition of Aenigmula as an independent lineage, offering more comprehensive morphological character descriptions and molecular evidence for this genus.
["Aenigmula"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

The hymenopteran parasitoid complex (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae and Pteromalidae) of the weevil beetle Lixus subtilis Boheman, 1836 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) in China
The hymenopteran parasitoid complex of the families Eurytomidae and Pteromalidae associated with Lixus subtilis Boheman, 1836 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) developing on sugar beet is studied in China (Xinjiang region). Eurytoma curculionum Mayr, 1878 (Eurytomidae) was reared from the larvae of Lixus subtilis and recorded for Xinjiang, China, for the first time. A new species, Chlorocytus papahemii sp. nov. (Pteromalidae), a hyperparasitoid of E. curculionum, is described from China. Illustrations and a detailed morphological description of the new species, as well as a redescription of the types of related Chlorocytus species, are provided. An identification key for females of the Chlorocytus harmolitae species is given.
["Description"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Key to Chinese species of stenocranine planthoppers (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae), with descriptions of two new species
Two new species of the genus Stenocranus Fieber, 1866 and Ceratocranus Fujinuma & Hayashi, 2025, S. fodingshanensis Tang, Li & Chen, sp. nov. and C. huaxiensis Tang, Li & Chen, sp. nov., are described and illustrated from China (Guizhou). A key to all known Chinese Stenocranus and Ceratocranus species, and ecological photos of the two new species, are provided.
["Fulgoroidea"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Research on scale insects"]

Four new species of the genus Lyroda Say (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae) from China, with a key to Chinese species
This paper presents a systematic study on the Chinese species of the genus Lyroda Say. Four new species of Lyroda from Yunnan, Guangxi, and Zhejiang provinces are described and illustrated: L. multidentis Li & Li, L. retirugosa Li & Li, L. curvicarina Li & Li, and L. quadratidens Li & Li. Diagnostic characters distinguishing these species from their congeners are provided. A key to known and new species of the genus Lyroda from China is provided.
["Digger wasp"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Five new species and one new record of armored spiders (Araneae, Tetrablemmidae) from Thailand
Five new cave-dwelling species and one newly recorded litter-dwelling species belonging to the family Tetrablemmidae are described from Thailand, i.e., Ablemma erna Lehtinen, 1981 (♂♀), A. theppratan Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), A. yamae Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), Shearella khaoplu Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂), S. thamphothisat Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂) and Tetrablemma lorkor Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂). Diagnoses and illustrations for all six species are given.
["Ablemma"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Thecacera sesama sp. nov. (Nudibranchia, Polyceridae) from Taiwan, evident from morphology and phylogenetic analyses of the 16S rDNA and cytochrome c oxidase I gene
Thecacera sesama Chan & Lee, sp. nov. (Nudibranchia, Polyceridae) is described from north-eastern Taiwan based on an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological and molecular data. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a unique colour pattern consisting of a translucent white body covered with numerous small, round, black pigment spots and fewer, larger, yellow spots and five gills. While sharing a similar spotted colour pattern with Thecacera pennigera, the new species can be clearly distinguished by its significantly smaller body size (maximum length < 3 mm). Phylogenetic analyses of two mitochondrial genes, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and 16S rRNA, confirmed it as a new species in Thecacera. The molecular data places Thecacera sesama sp. nov. as a sister species to Thecacera picta, with a significant interspecific COI divergence of 14.17%. This discovery highlights the rich, yet under documented, marine biodiversity of Taiwan and underscores the value of combining traditional morphological examination with molecular phylogenetics for accurate species delimitation in cryptic nudibranch lineages.
["bryozoans"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Hidden diversity in Europe: new species and a revised taxonomy of the subgenus Leptoconops (Leptoconops) (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)
The Ceratopogonidae (Diptera, Nematocera) is a highly diverse family of insects inhabiting a wide range of habitat types that is only absent from polar regions and remote islands. Despite this broad diversity, scientific knowledge of this family remains incomplete, including the genus Leptoconops Skuse, 1889. Although several Leptoconops species have been reported from Europe, no detailed study has yet been conducted to resolve the taxonomy of this genus and clarify species occurrence. Here, the first comprehensive study of Leptoconops diversity in southwest Spain is provided based on extensive sampling conducted in 2023–2024. In total, eight Leptoconops species were collected using carbon-dioxide suction traps: Leptoconops (Leptoconops) noei Clastrier & Coluzzi, 1973, Leptoconops (Leptoconops) irritans Noé, 1905, and four new species: Leptoconops (Leptoconops) nigrithorax González & Tanase, sp. nov., Leptoconops (Leptoconops) triangularis González & Tanase, sp. nov., Leptoconops (Leptoconops) pseudoirritans González & Tanase, sp. nov., and Leptoconops (Leptoconops) communis González & Tanase, sp. nov. Additionally, Leptoconops (Leptoconops) bidentatus Gutsevich, 1960, was recorded for the first time from the Iberian Peninsula. One species of the subgenus Holoconops: Leptoconops (Holoconops) cf. kerteszi Kieffer, 1908, was also identified. Molecular support for the morphological identification is provided using COX1 barcode sequences. A brief review of Leptoconops species occurrence in Europe is also included, with detailed morphological descriptions supported by high-quality images of the newly described species, and a complete identification key for dry-preserved and slide-mounted adult females of the subgenus L. (Leptoconops).
["Biting flies"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Agriculture and Farm Safety"]

Taxonomic revision on the genus Abbottina Jordan & Fowler, 1903 (Cypriniformes, Gobionidae)
The genus Abbottina Jordan & Fowler, 1903 comprises small benthic gobionid fishes widely distributed in East Asia. However, due to the unclear generic characteristics as defined in the original description, the taxonomic status of the species within this genus remains controversial, and its definition needs clarification. This study examined the morphology of the type species, Abbottina rivularis (Basilewsky, 1855), to more accurately redefine generic characteristics. The genus Abbottina can be distinguished from all other gobionid genera by the following characteristics: mouth inferior; lips thick, relatively smooth, with small less-developed papillae or shallow grooves; lower lip with anterior fold, medial pad forming two oval protuberances; jaws covered by lips, without horny margin; barbel one pair; the last unbranched dorsal-fin ray thin and soft; with five branched anal-fin rays; pharyngeal teeth in one row; air-bladder moderately large, possessing two soft chambers; anterior chamber enclosed in membrane capsule. Based on morphological characters and phylogeny of mitochondrial genome sequences, Abbottina lalinensis has been reassigned to the genus Microphysogobio. Further, based on the morphology of Abbottina binhi from Cao Bàng Province, this species is reassigned to the genus Oriengobio. Thus, the genus Abbottina becomes a monotypic genus.
["Air-bladder"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Sphenomorphus puhoatensis (Squamata, Scincidae), a new skink from Nghe An Province, Vietnam
A new species of the genus Sphenomorphus Fitzinger, 1843 is described from north-central Vietnam based on morphological differences and molecular divergence. Sphenomorphus puhoatensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by distinct body size, head and body scalation, dorsal scale shape, number of lamellae beneath finger IV and toe IV, and color pattern. In the phylogenetic analyses, the new species is recovered as a sister taxon to S. tamchucensis and genetically at least 6.9% and up to 16.6% divergent from other species in the genus based on two fragments of the mitochondrial 16S and COI genes, respectively.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A taxonomic revision of the land snail genus Acinolaemus F. G. Thompson & Upatham, 1997 (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Hypselostomatidae), with notes on Clostophis W. H. Benson, 1860 species from Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam
In this work, the hypselostomatid land snail genus Acinolaemus F.G. Thompson & Upatham, 1997 in Southeast Asia is revised. Characters based on which the genus was originally erected are thoroughly examined and evaluated. The genus is subdivided into six species groups based on similarities in shell surface sculpture and apertural barrier morphology. Four out of five species originally described in Acinolaemus, as well as species described from Vietnam and Cambodia are moved to Clostophis. Thirteen new species of Acinolaemus are described as follows: A. altus Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. asper Gojšina, Tongkerd & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. atypicus Gojšina, Tongkerd & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. ferox Gojšina, Tongkerd & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. humilis Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. microcubus Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. paucidentatus Gojšina, Tongkerd & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. profundus Gojšina, Auffenberg & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. rugolabialis Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. simplex Gojšina, Tongkerd & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. singularis Gojšina, Tongkerd & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. solitus Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. zed Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov. Thus, the total number of Acinolaemus species increases to 19, all inhabiting Thailand and Myanmar.
["New species"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Four new species of the whalefish genus Gyrinomimus Parr, 1934, with the establishment of three new species groups (Beryciformes, Cetomimidae)
Four new species of the flabby whalefish genus Gyrinomimus Parr, 1934 are described based on female specimens: G. alepis sp. nov. from the southern Atlantic, G. amaokai sp. nov. from the Northern Hemisphere, G. johnpaxtoni Su & Ho, sp. nov. from the Pacific and Atlantic, and G. johnsoni sp. nov. from the northern Pacific. Each of the new species differs from congeners in the length of gill filaments on fourth gill arch, numbers of dorsal- and anal-fin rays, gill rakers, head and lateral-line pores, anal lappets and vertebrae, distribution of cavernous tissue, and the shape and length/width ratio of copular tooth plate. Moreover, three species groups are defined: G. bruuni species group, G. grahami species group, and G. myersi species group. Each group differs in the length of gill filaments, numbers of anal lappet and gill rakers, and distribution of cavernous tissue. Diagnostic characters and detailed descriptions of the new species are provided and compared to congeners, with variations discussed. Finally, an identification key to species groups and all known species is provided.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Checklist of the adventive psyllids (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) of the Hawaiian Islands, including new state records, identification key, and description of a new species of Australopsylla
In recent years, an increase in baseline arthropod surveys and closer scrutiny of specimens from current and past collections have resulted in a rise of adventive psyllid species discoveries in the Hawaiian Islands. In some cases, the new records reported here may have been known for some time but not officially published in the literature. In other cases, specimens remained unidentified for several years. We provide an updated checklist of the 23 adventive psyllid species in the Hawaiian Islands, including six new state records, and at least one new island record. The majority of recent psyllid establishment records, including those newly reported here, are in the subfamily Spondyliaspidinae (Aphalaridae). These records are overwhelmingly Australasian in origin, with host plant associations in the family Myrtaceae, predominantly Eucalyptus. One of these new Australasian-origin records, Australopsylla exotica Matsunaga & Percy, sp. nov., is described here as a new species from adults and immatures. A molecular systematic overview of the phylogenetic placement of native and adventive taxa includes an analysis of the position of A. exotica within Australopsylla.
["Dispersal"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Research on scale insects"]

Taxonomic revision of the genus Aberdareleria (Diptera, Heleomyzidae, Oecotheini) with description of a new species from China
The genus Aberdareleria Woźnica, 1993 (Diptera: Heleomyzidae) was previously considered monotypic and endemic to the Aberdare Mountains, Kenya. Here, we describe A. qinghaiensis sp. nov. from Qinghai Province, China, marking the first record of the genus outside the Aberdare Mountains in Kenya and revealing a remarkable Afrotropical-Palearctic disjunction (>6000 km). The new species differs significantly from A. freidbergi, in traits such as having reduced setae on the mid tibia (only anterodorsal and posterodorsal setae) and only spine-like setae on the female cercus (absence of hair-like setae). Through a taxonomic revision of the genus, we provide a diagnostic key, detailed morphological comparisons, and discuss the biogeographic implications of this transcontinental distribution, suggesting either ancient vicariance or avian-mediated dispersal. This discovery highlights the underestimated diversity of high-altitude Diptera in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
["Aberdareleria"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

First record of the subfamily Trichomyiinae Tonnoir, 1922 and genus Trichomyia Haliday in Curtis, 1839 (Diptera, Psychodidae) in China, with the description of a new extant species
The subfamily Trichomyiinae Tonnoir, 1922 and the genus Trichomyia Haliday in Curtis, 1839 are recorded for the first time in China. A new species, Trichomyia sinensis sp. nov., is described, and photographs of an in situ adult male and its habitat are provided. An updated key to Trichomyia species from the Palearctic and Oriental regions is presented.
["Chinese"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Review of the mesh-web spider genus Sudesna Lehtinen, 1967 (Araneae, Dictynidae) from Xizang, China
The genus Sudesna Lehtinen, 1967 (Araneae, Dictynidae) from Xizang, China is reviewed, including one new combination and four new species: S. linzhiensis (Hu, 2001), comb. nov., S. chayu sp. nov. (♂♀), S. mii sp. nov. (♂♀), S. medog sp. nov. (♂) and S. wangi sp. nov. (♂♀). Additionally, the males of S. flavipes (Hu, 2001) and S. linzhiensis (Hu, 2001) are described here for the first time.
["Description"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A new species of the Drawida japonica species complex (Oligochaeta, Moniligastridae) disclosed by integrative taxonomy in Chongqing, China
The Drawida japonica (Michaelsen, 1892) species complex is widely distributed across Asia, yet its taxonomy remains challenging due to morphological conservatism and cryptic diversity. Using an integrative taxonomic approach, a new species, Drawida wuxiensis Qiao & Zhao, sp. nov., is described from the Yintiaoling National Nature Reserve in Chongqing, China. The new species is characterized by its small body size (22.0–47.0 mm), the absence of dorsal and female pores, and a unique comma-shaped spermathecae distinguished from the similar species D. japonica sensu stricto, D. henanensis Liu & Zhao, 2025, and D. sinensis Liu & Zhao, 2025 within the same complex. Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP), the Generalized Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC) phylogenetic approach, and Bayesian Phylogenetics and Phylogeography (BPP) yielded congruent results recognizing the new species. Significant K2P genetic distances (18.0–19.9%) from related species also further corroborate its validity. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, incorporating 13 protein-coding genes from the mitochondrial genome and four nuclear loci, collectively support its stable basal phylogenetic position and further confirm its species status as an early-diverging lineage. This study revises the diversity profile of the D. japonica species complex and underscores the importance of integrating multiple lines of evidence for resolving species boundaries.
["Earthworm"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species of Arabella (Annelida, Polychaeta, Oenonidae) from the sea off Gouqi Island, Zhejiang, China
Arabella is the second-most diverse genus in the family Oenonidae, with about 50 species known so far. However, until now, there has been no detailed taxonomic information on Arabella species in the East China Sea. In this study, we describe a new species, Arabella gouqi sp. nov., discovered in the sea off Gouqi Island, Zhejiang, China, using integrated morphological and molecular evidence. This species is characterized by the following features: a pygidium with two swollen pads, short notopodial cirri, a bifid robust left and a gracile falcate right maxilla I (MxI), short left and long right maxilla II (MxII), a posterior postchaetal lobe shorter than the chaetae, and gradually tapering of the ventralmost chaetae. Phylogenetic analysis based on both COI and 16S rDNA gene sequences showed that A. gouqi sp. nov. forms a distinct, fully supported monophyletic clade. These findings were further supported by substantial Kimura 2-parameter (K2P) genetic distances between the new species and other reported Arabella species, which ranged from 9.9% to 24.2% for COI and from 5.5% to 25.2% for 16S rDNA. This study provides essential data for understanding the taxonomy of Arabella in the East China Sea and emphasizes the need for further research on this group in the region.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of Asymphyloptera Collin (Diptera, Empididae, Clinocerinae) from the Colombian Andean-Amazon cloud forest, and an updated key to males of South American species
Asymphyloptera is distributed in the Australasian region and the New World. A new species of Asymphyloptera Collin is described from the Colombian Andean-Amazon cloud forest, namely Asymphyloptera andinoamazonica Ramos-Pastrana & Córdoba-Suarez, sp. nov. (type locality: Vereda Sucre, Florencia, Caquetá). New records for Asymphyloptera miraflorensis and A. tama, previously known only from their type locality (Huila, Garzón), are reported further south in Colombia (Caquetá, Florencia). Illustrations of the new species, an updated key for South American species and a distribution map for Colombian species are presented.
["Dance flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Research on scale insects", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new species of the genus Calommata Lucas, 1837, with first description of the male of Calommata hangzhica Li & Xu, 2022 from Hunan, China (Araneae, Atypidae)
A new spider species of the genus Calommata Lucas, 1837 is described from China: C. yueluensis sp. nov. (♂♀). The male of C. hangzhica Li & Xu, 2022 is described for the first time. Detailed descriptions, photographs of the habitus and copulatory organs, as well as the COI gene confirming that the male belongs to C. hangzhica are provided. The distribution map and taxonomic key to Chinese Calommata species are presented.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Silk-based biomaterials and applications"]

Molecular phylogeny of recognised Thai Landouria species (Gastropoda, Camaenidae), with descriptions of two new species
The molecular phylogeny and morphological–anatomical characteristics of the terrestrial snail genus Landouria Godwin-Austen, 1918 from Thailand are investigated, and we describe two new species. Phylogenetic analysis of 11 recognised Thai Landouria species reveal that these species are phylogenetically well separated from each other by mtDNA phylogeny and COI sequence divergences of 0.048–0.192. Landouria tumpeesuwanorum sp. nov. is described from a limestone hill in Nong Bua Lamphu Province, northeastern Thailand; it is characterised by its angulated whorls, a strongly keeled shell, and small flagellum with curved ends. The second new species, Landouria flagellolonga sp. nov. is described from a limestone hill in Sa Kaeo Province, eastern Thailand. It has a conical-lenticular, sharply keeled shell, and a very long, slender flagellum.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Taxonomic reassessment and color-pattern polymorphism of the Oriental fire-bellied newt Hypselotriton orientalis (Urodela, Salamandridae)
The Oriental fire-bellied newt Hypselotriton orientalis, widely distributed in eastern China, has long faced taxonomic ambiguities. Although the nominate subspecies of H. orientalis and the other subspecies, H. orientalis qianshan, are known to exhibit geographic segregation, the taxonomic status and distribution pattern of these two groups remain unverified by integrated evidence and comprehensive sampling. In addition, the color-pattern polymorphism of this newt is poorly studied. Herein, based on extensive geographic sampling (128 samples, 19 localities), morphological examination, and phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene fragments, we elevate the Dabie Mountain region subspecies to distinct-species status as H. qianshan stat. nov., and reassess its distribution range. Morphologically, this newly ranked taxon distinctly differs from H. orientalis orientalis by its smaller body length ratios (TOL/SVL and TAL/SVL), smaller fore-limb length ratio (FLL/SVL); longer internasal distance in males, longer interorbital distance in females; rust-red or rust-white patches on the dorsum; discontinuous dorsal ridge lines; the presence of orange-red patches on finger I; discontinuous or absent black stripes on the venter; and relatively inconspicuous vertebral ridge. Molecularly, the newly ranked taxon forms an independent clade with strong support (1.00/99) in the phylogenetic trees; the uncorrected group mean genetic distance between the newly ranked taxon and H. orientalis orientalis was 3.5%. Geographically, the newly ranked taxon and H. orientalis orientalis are separated by the Yangtze River, Luoxiao Mountains, Jiuling Mountains and Mufu Mountains. The number of species in the genus Hypselotriton now reaches 12. Meanwhile, we further report on the intraspecific color-pattern polymorphism of H. orientalis sensu lato. The potential species richness and color-pattern polymorphism in salamanders deserves further attention.
["Dabie Mountains"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Morphological redescription and genetic characterization of the enigmatic Nannopus palustris Brady, 1880 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Nannopodidae)
Nannopus palustris Brady, 1880 is considered to be distributed worldwide and is the type species of Nannopus Brady, 1880 that, in turn, is the type genus of the family Nannopodidae Brady, 1880. However, its original description and subsequent amendments are discrepant and is insufficiently detailed, giving rise to considerable taxonomic confusion thus hampering species delimitation, further revisions, and other taxonomical acts. This paper presents a detailed morphological redescription of both sexes of N. palustris with the designation of a neotype from material recently collected from the type locality. We compared key characteristics of the newly collected specimens of N. palustris with those of other species of Nannopus. Morphological and molecular analyses, including 18S rDNA, support the subdivision of the genus into two species groups as proposed by Sciberras et al. (2021). Specimens from several distant populations, previously identified as N. palustris were reexamined. Specimens from the Westerschelde estuary (SW Netherlands) and Small Adzhalyk Estuary (NW Black Sea) were found to be identical to those from the type locality and were attributed to N. palustris. Specimens from the White Sea, however, turned out to be conspeciﬁc with N. procerus Fiers & Kotwicki, 2013. Specimens from the Vellar estuary (Bay of Bengal) and Lake Hinuma (Japan) likely represent distinct, yet undescribed species of Nannopus. An updated generic diagnosis is provided, offering a clearer framework for future taxonomic studies.
["Harpacticoida"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Sthenelais onca sp. nov. (Phyllodocida, Sigalionidae) from a sandy beach on the North Pacific coast of Costa Rica
Errant polychaetes of the family Sigalionidae are active, scale-covered predators inhabiting sandy marine bottoms. Knowledge of this family in tropical America is scarce, with only a few species reported from Costa Rica. In this study, seven specimens of Sthenelais were collected from the intertidal zone of Playa Naranjo, Área de Conservación Guanacaste, on the North Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Morphological examinations and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses based on DNA barcoding (COI) were conducted to determine their taxonomic identity. The specimens were recovered within the Sthenelais clade, forming a distinct and well-supported subclade that includes S. limicola from Europe and representatives from Asia, and that differs from western Pacific congeners. Morphologically, the new species Sthenelais onca sp. nov. differs from other Eastern Tropical Pacific congeners by the absence of serrations on the shafts of neurochaetae throughout the body, stylodes without papillae, and anterior elytra bearing a notch on the supra-interior margin that diminishes posteriorly. The species inhabits saturated sand in the intertidal zone and exhibits a unique elytral coloration pattern reminiscent of a jaguar’s coat. This study describes a new species of Sthenelais from sandy beaches of the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and provides an updated identification key for the genus in the region, expanding the known diversity and distribution of Sigalionidae in the Tropical Eastern Pacific.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of the genus Metaphire (Oligochaeta, Megascolecidae) from northern China with data from the mitochondrial genome
This study describes a new species, Metaphire wenanensis Liu & Zhao, sp. nov. integrating morphological characters and molecular data. The new species is assigned to the M. houlleti group, and is characterized by three pairs of spermathecal pores at 6/7–8/9, and absence of genital markings both anterior and posterior to the clitellum. The spermathecae are connected to the body wall through a disc-shaped atrium, which is interposed between them and the body wall. The molecular phylogenetic position of M. wenanensis Liu & Zhao, sp. nov. within the M. houlleti group was analyzed using mitochondrial genome data. This marks the initial documentation of a new species within the family Megascolecidae in northern China since the last decades.
["Annelida"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Morphological and molecular evidence support a new species of the genus Ilocomba Brescovit, 1997 (Araneae, Anyphaenidae, Anyphaeninae) from the Andes of Colombia
We describe a new species of the genus Ilocomba Brescovit, 1997 from the Andean region of Colombia using an integrative taxonomic approach that combines morphological and molecular data. We assess the phylogenetic position of the new species using four molecular markers: COI, 16S, 28S, and H3. The distinctiveness of the new species, Ilocomba yotoco sp. nov., is supported by its placement in the phylogenetic tree, unique morphological characteristics, and uncorrected pairwise genetic distances. We also provide new morphological data and geographic records for Ilocomba marta Brescovit, 1997. Additionally, we present a distribution map of the genus and an updated identification key for all known species of Ilocomba.
["DNA barcoding"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

A new species of Calamaria (Squamata, Calamariidae) from southern China, previously confused with Calamaria pavimentata Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854
Calamaria pavimentata Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854 was originally described from Java Island, Indonesia, yet specimens from southern China, particularly Guangxi, have long been referred to this species based on general morphological resemblance. Herein, the taxonomic status of Chinese populations previously referred to as Calamaria pavimentata is re-evaluated using an integrative approach combining morphological data and mitochondrial DNA analyses, based on four specimens from Yangjiang City, Guangdong Province, and Chongzuo City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Phylogenetic analyses recover the Chinese specimens as a distinct and well-supported lineage within Calamaria. Notably, the Guangdong and Guangxi populations exhibit a relatively high intraspecific mitochondrial divergence (uncorrected p-distance = 10.78% based on the cytochrome b gene), despite the absence of consistent diagnostic morphological differences. Although mitochondrial DNA data from topotypic C. pavimentata, are currently unavailable, the observed morphological differences, together with the pronounced geographic disjunction between Java and southern China, support the recognition of the Chinese population as a distinct species, herein described as Calamaria similis sp. nov. from Guangdong and Guangxi, China. Detailed morphological examinations reveal that Calamaria similis sp. nov. differs from C. pavimentata and all of its currently recognized synonyms by having higher ventral scale counts in females, fewer subcaudal scales in males (but slightly more in females), a smaller maximum total length in males, and a shorter relative tail length in both sexes. Our results highlight the need for renewed field surveys in Java Island, Indonesia to rediscover C. pavimentata sensu stricto, and emphasize that other populations previously identified as C. pavimentata should be re-evaluated using integrative taxonomic approaches.
["Calamaria similis sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Three new species of the Homoneura (Homoneura) singularis group from China (Diptera, Lauxaniidae, Homoneura)
Three species of the subgenus Homoneura (Homoneura) Wulp, 1891 from China are described as new to science: H. (H.) furcata sp. nov., H. (H.) lishuiensis sp. nov., and H. (H.) sexangula sp. nov., which are assigned to the H. (H.) singularis group. A key to the species of this species group in China is presented. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of male genitalia of these new species are provided.
["Homoneurinae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

New species of Plateros Bourgeois, 1879 (Coleoptera, Lycidae) from Hainan Island, China
Five new species of Plateros Bourgeois, 1879 are discovered from Hainan Island, China, and described as P. hainanensis sp. nov., P. sinuatus sp. nov., P. elongatus sp. nov., P. dentaticornis sp. nov., and P. spinulosus sp. nov. Three previously known species, including P. belokobylskyi Kazantsev, 2011, P. binhanus (Pic, 1925), and P. bachmaensis Kazantsev & Pham, 2026, are recorded to China for the first time. Females of P. belokobylskyi and P. incurvusimimus Fang, Yang, Yang & Liu, 2024 are identified for the first time. These species are illustrated with their habitus and male genitalia. An identification key to the Plateros species found on Hainan Island, China is provided.
["Alpha taxonomy"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of the bamboo-feeding genus Buloria from China (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae)
Two new species of the bamboo-feeding leafhopper genus Buloria Distant, 1908 (Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae, Mukariini), B. acuta Sun, Li, Chen & Yang, sp. nov. and B. falcata Sun, Li, Chen & Yang, sp. nov. from Yunnan Province, China, are described and illustrated. A checklist of all known species of Buloria is provided, along with an identification key.
["Checklist"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Siphliops gen. nov., a new genus of Baetidae (Ephemeroptera) from New Guinea
Mayflies collected in the central mountain range of New Guinea (Highland Papua Province) revealed a new genus of Baetidae, Siphliops gen. nov. The larvae present a unique combination of characters, particularly: abdominal tergum IX with acute extension of the posterolateral corners; carina-like elevation on the frons; labium with glossae and paraglossae spread, and glossae much shorter than paraglossae. The new genus belongs to the tribe Labiobaetini. A new species, Siphliops extenso gen. nov. et sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on larva and subimago. Remarkably, it is known from a single locality only, despite the large amount of sampling done in New Guinea in the past years. COI sequences were obtained from three specimens. Morphological similarities and the relationship of the new genus to other genera of Baetidae are discussed.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Description of two new Nematoda species of the genus Dorylaimopsis Ditlevsen, 1918 (Comesomatidae, Araeolaimida, Nematoda) from the Yellow Sea, China
Two new species of the genus Dorylaimopsis Ditlevsen, 1918 from the subtidal zone of the Yellow Sea are described and illustrated. Dorylaimopsis sinica sp. nov. is characterised by the lateral differentiation in the form of longitudinal rows of larger dots which consisting of three rows of dots in about the anterior 20% and posterior 20% of the total body length and two rows of dots in the rest portion of the body, by the multispiral amphidial fovea having three turns; slender, equal, arcuated spicules; cephalated proximal end with a short median cuticularised lamina; length 1.9–2.2 times the cloacal body diameter; gubernaculum with two geniculate curved apophyses and 14–17 papilliform precloacal supplements; and excretory pore posterior to nerve ring. Dorylaimopsis zhangi sp. nov. is characterised by having cephalic setae 6–7 μm long, amphidial fovea with three turns, lateral differentiation consisting of four longitudinal rows of larger dots in the pharyngeal and tail regions, three longitudinal rows of larger dots in the middle region of body, spicules slender and slightly curved, length 2.0–2.5 times the cloacal body diameter, and 18 small, pit-like precloacal supplements. An updated dichotomous key is provided for the 29 valid species of Dorylaimopsis.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

A new tribe of Elicinae Melichar, 1915 (Hemiptera, Tropiduchidae) with the description of a new genus and two new species from southern China
A new tribe, Elibucini trib. nov., is established in the subfamily Elicinae Melichar, 1915 (Hemiptera, Tropiduchidae) to accommodate the new genus Elibuca Zhou & Chang, gen. nov. The tribe is diagnosed by a distinctive combination of characters, including steeply tectiform forewings with well-developed nodal and subapical lines, hind tibiae lacking lateral spines, an elongate phallobase reaching or approaching the apex of the aedeagus, and rounded gonoplacs lacking marginal teeth. Two new species are described from southern China, and illustrated: Elibuca clavata Zhou & Chang, sp. nov. from Hainan, designated as the type species, and E. lobata Zhou & Chang, sp. nov. (Guizhou and Sichuan). Keys to the tribes of Elicinae and to the species of Elibuca are provided.
["Morphology"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Research on scale insects"]

Temperature shapes the cold tolerance and body size of the springtail Isotomiella minor (Hexapoda, Collembola) in contrasting environments
Urban environments exhibit narrower environmental temperature profiles, with increases in mean temperature compared with natural environments. In this context, urban populations will exhibit narrow thermal tolerance ranges, driven by a reduction in the ability to tolerate low temperatures and a more modest increase in the ability to tolerate high temperatures. Also, in the case of morphology, body size may vary with temperature in such urban-natural systems. Generally, there is a lack of knowledge on adaptive intraspecific variation in cold tolerance and body size of Collembola in these contrasting environments. In this study variation in these traits were explored in the common parthenogenetic springtail Isotomiella minor (Schäffer, 1896). The populations from warm urban habitats to tolerate lower temperatures less well than those inhabiting colder natural habitats was expected. Furthermore, whether the body size of populations may be related to habitat temperature was also explored. Significantly higher cold resistance was observed in the natural populations of I. minor compared to the populations from urban sites. The difference in the LD50 values between the populations also corresponded with their survival-temperature curves. The LD50 values correlated significantly with the soil temperature means at the sites. The body size of the Isotomiella populations decreased significantly with increasing soil temperature. Since elevation was the primary driver influencing temperature differences at sites, urbanisation effect could not be fully specified in our study. In conclusion, soil temperature, in combination with other environmental factors, plays a crucial role in the cold tolerance and body size of Isotomiella minor in urban and natural environments.
["Body length"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Annotated checklist of the invertebrate macrozoobenthos from Mauritanian marine shallow-water habitats
From 2020 to 2024, The Institut Mauritanien de Recherches Océanographiques et des Pêche (IMROP) and the Senckenberg Research Institute conducted five joint expeditions, exploring the marine biodiversity of the North-Mauritanian coastal habitats, primarily focusing on the Baie de l’Étoile north of Nouadhibou and to the Banc d’Arguin National Park. In order to establish a Mauritanian scientific reference collection of the marine fauna and to build up a DNA barcode library, macrozoobenthic invertebrates from all major groups were collected using various methods and gear. A total of 103 living marine macrozoobenthic invertebrate species were found and their key morphological features were described herein. This checklist gives an overview on the most common species of the Mauritanian coastal macroinvertebrates and provides a baseline for future biodiversity assessments along the Mauritanian coast.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

On a new genus and species of karst-dwelling freshwater crab (Crustacea, Brachyura, Potamidae) from Peninsular Malaysia
Recent explorations of caves in Pahang, central Peninsular Malaysia yielded specimens of an unusual long-legged terrestrial, cave-dwelling crab. Morphological examinations of the specimens collected, in comparison with known species from the region suggests that they belong to a new genus and species, which are described herein. Merapohra karsticola gen. nov. et sp. nov., is differentiated from other potamids by characters of the carapace epigastric and postorbital cristae, ambulatory legs, male thoracic sternum, male pleon, and diagnostic structure of the male first gonopod. The discovery of this new genus and species of cave-dwelling crab highlights the importance and high diversity of karst systems in Peninsular Malaysia, which are imperilled in light of ongoing quarrying and mining activities.
["Cave"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Earthworm fauna of Catanduanes Island, Philippines, including descriptions of two new species of the genus Pheretima (Clitellata, Megascolecidae)
We describe new species of the genus Pheretima from Catanduanes Island, Philippines. Pheretima lapulapui sp. nov. belongs to the Pheretima sangirensis group, with one pair of spermathecal pores in 7/8. Pheretima portiae sp. nov. belongs to the Pheretima urceolata group, with one pair of spermathecal pores in 5/6. Pheretima lapulapui sp. nov. has spermathecal pores 0.19–0.24 of the circumference apart and copulatory bursae openings 0.12–0.26 of the circumference apart. The intestinal origin in XVI, the vestigial typhlosole, the presence of a septum 8/9, and wedge-shaped pads surrounding the copulatory bursal openings separate Pheretima lapulapui sp. nov. from other species. Pheretima portiae sp. nov. is distinguished by spermathecal pores 0.16 of the circumference apart, copulatory bursae openings 0.24 of the circumference apart, unpigmented segmental equators, hearts in XI–XIII, and an intestinal origin in XV. Another taxon of the urceolata group, represented by a single individual, was briefly described but not named.
["Biodiversity survey"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new species of Tylototriton (Amphibia, Salamandridae) from Phu Xai Lai Leng Mountain, Nghe An Province, Vietnam
A new species of crocodile newt, Tylototriton vietnamirabilis sp. nov., is described from Phu Xai Lai Leng Mountain, Nghe An Province, in the border area between Vietnam and Laos, based on molecular divergence and morphological differences. Tylototriton vietnamirabilis sp. nov. differs from other species in the subgenus Tylototriton by its body size, tail length, glandular ridge on the midline of crown of head, parotoid shape, appearance of vertebral ridge, number of dorsolateral glandular warts, the presence of a gular fold, coloration of head and body, and the presence of lateral grooves on tail. In terms of genetic distance, the new species differs from other congeners for which comparable sequences are available by at least 5.33–5.35% (T. panwaensis) and 5.35–5.37% (T. anguliceps), based on the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene. Our new finding brings the total number of known species in the genus Tylototriton from Vietnam to 10. Because the new species is currently known to be restricted to evergreen montane forests on Phu Xai Lai Leng Mountain, we recommend to be classified as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List.
["Crocodile newts"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Paleontology and Evolutionary Biology"]

On the little-known genus Meilichius with descriptions of three new species from China (Coleoptera, Endomychidae)
This study is based on a comprehensive morphological examination of physical specimens, high-resolution photographs, and primary literature covering all known species of the genus Meilichius Gerstaecker. Building upon this examination and utilizing specimens collected from China, three new species of Meilichius are described: M. chebalingensis Chang & Li, sp. nov., M. speciosus Chang & Bi, sp. nov. and M. tomaszewskae Chang & Bi, sp. nov. Illustrations and diagnostic characters of the new species are presented, with a key to all known species of Meilichius. In addition, this study presents the first mitochondrial COI barcode data and ecological information for the recently described species M. wukong Wang & Tomaszewska.
["Asia"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

After forty-eight years: An enigmatic new wormlion fly from Xizang, China (Diptera, Vermileonidae)
The brachyceran family Vermileonidae (wormlion flies) is characterised by larvae that construct pitfall traps for predation. The Oriental genus Vermitigris Wheeler, 1930 previously included four described species distributed in China, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia. In 1978, unidentified larvae of Vermitigris were collected by Fa-Sheng Li from Yadong, Xizang, China, but the adult stage remained unknown. During a 2025 expedition, adult specimens were obtained, enabling their association with the larvae and recognition as a new species. Herein, Vermitigris tsangyanggyatso sp. nov. is described, with accounts of its immature stages and notes on its biology. This discovery increases the number of Vermitigris species recorded from China from one to two, the total number of species in the genus from four to five, and all the extant species in the family from 66 to 67. The biogeographical implications for Vermitigris are also discussed.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Hitchhiking across continents: phoresy of pseudoscorpions (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpiones) on Diptera, with new European records
Phoresy is an important dispersal strategy in pseudoscorpions, yet associations with Diptera have not been comprehensively revised for more than two decades. An updated synthesis of pseudoscorpion-Diptera phoresy is presented based on newly collected European material, a revision of previously studied Slovak material, a critical reassessment of worldwide published records, and available fossil evidence. In total, 11 previously unreported cases of pseudoscorpion phoresy from four European countries are documented, including the first records of Dactylochelifer degeerii (C.L. Koch, 1835) from France and of Pselaphochernes scorpioides (Hermann, 1804) from Slovenia. Seven dipteran species and three dipteran families are newly recorded worldwide as hosts of pseudoscorpion phoresy, and one case of multiple phoresy was recorded from Slovakia. Altogether, 172 records spanning the period from 1761 to 2025 were compiled and evaluated. Compared with previous syntheses, the number of known dipteran hosts was increased to 74 species from 30 families, and pseudoscorpion phoronts to 39 species from seven families. This study provides the most comprehensive overview of pseudoscorpion-Diptera phoresy to date and establishes a robust framework for future taxonomic, ecological, and evolutionary studies.
["Dispersal"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Two new species of Nanorana Günther, 1896 (Anura, Dicroglossidae) from Yunnan, China
Two new species of the Nanorana yunnanensis complex are described from southeastern and northeastern Yunnan Province, China, respectively, based on morphological and molecular evidence. The two new species can be distinguished from the three known species of this complex and each other by the difference in the skin texture, the visibility of the tympanum, the ventral coloration, and the distribution of the spines on the ventral surface of the head in adult males. Phylogenetically, the two new species formed two distinct clades in the N. yunnanensis complex and differ from other species of the complex and each other by 2.4–5.0% in the 16S gene sequences and 9.8–11.3% in the ND2 gene sequences. This study brings the total number of recognized species of the genus Nanorana to 36, of which 27 occur in China and 13 in Yunnan.
["Mitochondrion"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

New data on spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) of the Arabian Peninsula and the Levant, with new species and records
Based on several small collections, new taxonomic and faunistic data on spiders of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Lebanon are presented. Six species are described as new to science: Dorceus saif Szűts & Zamani, sp. nov. (♂; Saudi Arabia), Loureedia melanconi Szűts & Zamani, sp. nov. (♂; Saudi Arabia) (both Eresidae), Leptopilos hajarensis Zamani & Marusik, sp. nov. (♀; UAE), Synaphosus dulcicola Zamani & Marusik, sp. nov. (♀; UAE) (both Gnaphosidae), Arctosa formosa Zamani & Marusik, sp. nov. (♂♀; UAE) (Lycosidae), and Prodidomus emiratus Zamani & Marusik, sp. nov. (♀; UAE) (Prodidomidae). In addition, the previously unknown male of Trichothyse golan (Levy, 1999) (Gnaphosidae) is illustrated and described. Finally, one new family record, 16 new generic records and 22 new species records are documented, and the previous record of Sahastata infuscata (Kulczyński, 1901) (Filistatidae) from Yemen is rejected.
["Kuwait"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

The widespread Leodamas chevalieri (Annelida, Orbiniidae) revealed as a species complex, with descriptions of a new species and a new record for the Arabian region
Leodamas chevalieri, the only Leodamas species reported in the Arabian region, was originally described from Senegal, western Africa. In this work, the morphological and genetic (COI and ITS2) variation of several populations of Leodamas from different localities in Kuwait, Oman, and western Africa were analyzed. The type material of L. chevalieri is described, and molecular data provided for specimens collected close to the type locality. Based on the molecular analysis, at least twelve lineages were recognized in the studied area (eight in the Arabian region and four in the western Africa), with L. chevalieri being a species complex composed of at least eleven lineages. The species name Leodamas chevalieri is assigned to the lineage found close to the type locality, restricting the species distribution to the coastal areas of Senegal. One lineage from off Kuwait was described as a new species, Leodamas edgari sp. nov., differing from L. chevalieri in fine chaetal characters. Another lineage was identified as Leodamas gracilis, originally described from Sri Lanka, representing a new record of this species for the Arabian region. Further investigation is needed to describe or to name the other lineages belonging to the L. chevalieri species complex. With the description of L. edgari sp. nov., the genus comprises 31 species worldwide. However, the number of discovered genetic lineages in this study indicates a high proportion of undescribed species diversity in the genus.
["Arabia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Description of a new species of Stictochironomus Kieffer, 1919 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from China based on DNA barcoding and adult morphology
In April 2025, adult specimens of Diptera were collected in Henan Province, China., and based on an integrated analysis of DNA barcodes and morphology, a new species is formally described as Stictochironomus longtanensis Lei & Zhang, sp. nov. Adult males can be distinguished from all known congeners by a unique combination of morphological traits: a greater hypopygium ratio (1.98–2.11) and longer hypopygium (3.77–4.01), the presence of a white ring on the femur, the wing with a dark spot near the cross vein r-m, and a superior volsella bearing six bristles. Adult females are characterized by a small antennal ratio (AR 0.37–0.39); the wing with a dark spot near the cross vein r-m; genitalia with two ovoid, transparent seminal capsules; and a large, elliptical, densely setose cercus. The average interspecific genetic distance of the new species with congeners substantially exceeds the established threshold for species divergence in Stictochironomus, providing strong molecular evidence supporting this novel species. An updated taxonomic key to the known male adults of Stictochironomus from China is also provided.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Taxonomy of the ant genus Cardiocondyla Emery, 1869 from China, with the description of a new species of the sima group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The genus Cardiocondyla Emery, 1869 is a diverse group of ants in the subfamily Myrmicinae, with a total of 89 recognised species and subspecies recorded worldwide. A new species of the sima group C. zhoui sp. nov. is described herein, from China, based on worker morphology. The main diagnostic characters of this new species are as follows: 11-segmented antennae; occiput partly smooth and shining; clypeus broad and robust; mesosomal dorsum strongly convex and mostly smooth; metanotal groove absent; and petiolar peduncle long and slender. The new species is similar to C. sima Wheeler, 1935, but it differs in a smooth and shining occipital surface, evenly convex anterior clypeal margin, more elevated mesosomal outline, and more elongated petiolar peduncle. Additionally, a new synonymy is proposed: C. insutura Zhou, 2001, syn. nov. (= C. minutior Forel, 1899). Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images and high-resolution colour images of Chinese Cardiocondyla species are provided, with a taxonomic key to the Chinese Cardiocondyla species based on worker caste.
["Chinese fauna"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Morphology, morphogenesis, and multigene phylogeny of Stichotricha koreana sp. nov. (Alveolata, Ciliophora, Hypotricha): taxonomic implications for the family Chaetospiridae Jankowski in Small & Lynn, 1985
The morphology, morphogenesis, and multi-gene phylogeny of a new hypotrich, Stichotricha koreana sp. nov., from a temporary pond in Gangneung-si, South Korea, were investigated. The new species inhabits a gelatinous lorica that is often branched, forming a colony. Diagnostic features include two frontal cirri, one buccal cirrus, a short parabuccal row, two frontoventral cirral rows, a single marginal row on each side, and three dorsal kineties, each with a caudal cirrus. The frontoventral rows, marginal rows, and dorsal kineties spiral by half to one turn around the long body axis. Detailed morphogenesis is documented in the genus for the first time: the oral primordium arises close to the left frontoventral row; the parental adoral zone is fully retained; frontoventral rows, both marginal rows, and all dorsal kineties develop at two levels via within-row anlagen formation; and the parabuccal row originates from the oral primordium. Phylogenetic analyses of 18S rDNA place Stichotricha koreana sp. nov. within Chaetospiridae, forming a sister group to members of the family Gonostomatidae and the core urostylids. A concatenated rDNA gene dataset shows that Chaetospiridae is sister to hypotrichs with gonostomatid oral apparatus. These data refine the diagnosis of Chaetospiridae and confirm the generic assignment of S. koreana sp. nov.
["Gonostomatid oral apparatus"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Expanding the horizon: Discovery of two new spider species of the Pholcus phungiformes species group (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Inner Mongolia, China, with a new western record for the group
The spiders of the Pholcus phungiformes species group are primarily distributed across five mountain ranges in East Asia: the Lüliang Mountains and the Yanshan-Taihang Mountains in North China, the transitional uplands between the Yanshan-Taihang and Changbai Mountains, the Changbai Mountains straddling the China-North Korea border, and the Taebaek-Sobaek Mountains on the Korean Peninsula. In this study, we report the first records of this group from Inner Mongolia, northern China, describing two new species: Pholcus alashan Wang & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀, from Alashan Zuoqi) and P. chifeng Yan & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀, from Chifeng). The discovery of P. alashan sp. nov. extends the group’s western distribution limit by 5.2° longitude (from c. 111.0°E to 105.8°E), representing a significant zoogeographic range expansion.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Silk-based biomaterials and applications"]

A new skink of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950 (Squamata, Scincidae) from Dak Lak Province, Vietnam
A new species of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950 is described from south-central Vietnam based on morphological and molecular evidence. Scincella ngati sp. nov. is characterized by a combination of the following characters: size medium (SVL up to 48.3 mm); primary temporals two; external ear opening without lobules; loreals two; supralabials seven (rarely 8); infralabials six; enlarged nuchals, 0–2; midbody scales in 32–34 rows; dorsal scales smooth, in eight rows across the back; paravertebral scales 68–70, not widened; ventral scales in 64–68 rows; 10 or 11 smooth lamellae beneath finger IV and 16 or 17 beneath toe IV; toes not reaching the fingers when limbs adpressed along body; dorsal surface of body and tail bronze brown with a discontinuous black vertebral stripe, one scale wide, from middle of neck to tail base; a black stripe, two scales wide, interrupted by small pale spots, from nostril to eye and extending from posterior margin of eye along upper part of flank and tail base. In the phylogenetic analyses, the new species is recovered as an independent lineage with no clear sister taxon and shows at least 11.2% genetic divergence from other species in the genus based on a fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Two new species of Comesomatidae (Nematoda, Araeolaimida) from the Rizhao coast of the Yellow Sea, China
To study the diversity and taxonomy of marine nematodes on the Rizhao coast, undisturbed sediment samples have been systematically collected since 2022. Two new species of the family Comesomatidae, Comesoma macramphida sp. nov. and Paramesonchium tubulosupplementa sp. nov. are described. Comesoma macramphida sp. nov. is characterized by having the outer labial sensilla setiform, the buccal cavity cup-shaped with a cuticularized projection, the amphidial fovea wide with 2.5 turns, spicules L-shaped with faint striation, the gubernaculum short with a small caudally directed apophysis, 10 or 11 papilliform precloacal supplements, and a conico-cylindrical tail with two long terminal setae. Paramesonchium tubulosupplementa sp. nov. is characterized by having the cuticle ornamented with transverse punctations and lateral pores, four long cephalic setae, a wide buccal cavity with three ridges, a wide amphidial fovea with 2.5–2.75 turns, spicules curved with a cephalate proximal end, the gubernaculum with a dorso-caudal apophysis, 11 or 12 tubular precloacal supplements, and a conico-cylindrical tail with a short, cylindrical portion.
["Comesoma"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Description of two new species of Rhaphidophora and Diestramima (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae) from China
The family Rhaphidophoridae (Orthoptera, Ensifera) was established by Walker in 1869 with Rhaphidophora Serville, 1838 as the type genus. Morphologically, all species are completely wingless, with a flattened, dorsally convex body, a longitudinally furrowed head vertex, slender legs, and foretibiae without tympana. Herein, two new species, Rhaphidophora jiaozishanensis Feng & Zhao, sp. nov. and Diestramima (Baculitettix) phytophylacis Feng & Zhao, sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Both new species were collected from Jiaozishan Town, Xixiu District, Anshun City, Guizhou Province, China. All specimens examined in this study are deposited in the collection of Anshun University, Anshun City, Guizhou Province, China.
["Aemodogryllinae"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new species of Lomechusoides (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) from Formica polyctena anthills in Northeastern Europe
Lomechusoides umbrosus sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae: Lomechusini) is described, a socially integrated myrmecophile associated with Formica polyctena Foerster, 1850. The species is documented from Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Poland, Belarus, and Western Russia (incl. Ural Mountains) based on both newly collected and museum specimens. Field observations show beetles on the surface of host mounds and within nest material, indicating a close association with red wood ant hills. Morphological comparison of the new species and similar Lomechusoides species is provided, including an identification key for Lomechusoides species of Northern Europe, and an update to the global L. strumosus group key. A detailed account of differences between the new species and L. strumosus (hosted by F. sanguinea), for which it has until now been misidentified as, is made. Mitochondrial COI barcodes are provided to support the morphology and show low but robustly supported genetic divergence (0.7%) between L. umbrosus sp. nov. and L. strumosus, which are similar to divergences between other currently recognised species in the genus. Key diagnostic characters include the shape of the pronotum, colour and microsculpture of the head, pronotum and abdomen, dimensions of the antennae, genital structures, as well as the ant host. Our study clarifies long-standing confusion over records of “L. strumosus” from nests of the Formica rufa group and suggests that host specificity is prevalent within Lomechusoides. The holotype is deposited at the Natural History Museum Denmark.
["Ant guests"]

Morphology and phylogeny of two acotylean flatworms (Platyhelminthes, Polycladida) from the genera Cryptophallus and Limnoplana in the South China Sea
We describe two new species of the genera Cryptophallus Bock, 1913 and Limnoplana Faubel, 1983, which have not been reported for nearly a century. Herein, the genus Limnoplana represents a rare group of polyclads inhabiting brackish waters. Cryptophallus sinensis sp. nov. is characterized by: i) a grayish-brown dorsal surface with a slightly darker median region, ii) numerous cerebral eyespots forming two scarcely separate clusters, and iii) an ejaculatory duct joining the prostatic duct at the distal end of the penis. Limnoplana obscuriviridis sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by: i) the presence of a true seminal vesicle, ii) a heart-shaped brain, iii) gonopores positioned closer to the posterior end of the body, and iv) a U-shaped Lang’s vesicle with two swollen ends. We provide the first partial DNA maker sequences for these two new species and employ them to analyze the phylogenetic relationships of their corresponding genera. Our molecular phylogenetic analyses show that Cryptophallus and Limnoplana are nested within the Stylochoidea clade. In addition, we have revised the genus Cryptophallus; its familial affiliation remains unresolved, and additional species are required to clarify its phylogenetic position.
["Brackish water"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Revision of Anadimonia Ogloblin, support for synonymy with Trichocerophysa Gressitt & Kimoto (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Galerucitae), with descriptions of one new genus and nine new species
The synigonymy of Anadimonia Ogloblin, 1936 with Trichocerophysa Gressitt & Kimoto, 1963 is supported. Trichocerophysa latifascia Gressitt & Kimoto, 1963, syn. nov. is regarded as a new synonym of Anadimonia potanini Ogloblin, 1936. A new genus Anatrimonia gen. nov. is described. Atysa albofasciata Jacoby, 1892 and Trichocerophysa hainana Gressitt & Kimoto, 1963 (resurrected from synonymy with T. latifascia Gressitt & Kimoto, 1963) are transferred to Anatrimonia gen. nov. Nine new species of Anatrimonia gen. nov. are described as follows: A. cheni sp. nov., A. chungi sp. nov., A. huangi sp. nov., A. jungchani sp. nov., A. meihuai sp. nov., A. tsoui sp. nov., A. wangi sp. nov., A. yuae sp. nov., and A. yunnanensis sp. nov.
["Camphora"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new species of Messor from Bulgaria and redescription of the gyne of M. oertzeni Forel, 1910 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
A new ant species, Messor odrysarum sp. nov., of the Messor structor species group, is described based on worker, gyne and male castes collected in Eastern Rhodopes, Bulgaria. The description is supported by the morphology of all castes and COI barcoding. Both the morphological traits and COI sequence data indicate that the new species is closely related to Messor oertzeni Forel, 1910, a species restricted to the eastern Balkans and Anatolia. Furthermore, the little-known gyne of M. oertzeni was redescribed based on a specimen collected in Bulgaria. The new data increases the number of Messor species known from Bulgaria to nine, for which an updated key is provided.
["Ants"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

An annotated checklist of Ennominae (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) from Chiapas, Mexico
The subfamily Ennominae represents the most diverse lineage within the family Geometridae. Knowledge about the identity and number of Mexican geometrids is limited, and particularly in regions of disproportionate Lepidoptera diversity such as Chiapas. This study provides the first comprehensive checklist of the ennomine moths from Chiapas, Mexico, a key region from the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot. Our checklist is derived from an exhaustive review of national and international scientific collections, digital databases, and intensive field work. A total of 239 taxa is documented: 227 named species in 101 genera, including 167 new state records and 12 unidentified taxa that likely represent undescribed entities. Representatives of 12 ennomine tribes are reported, Ennomini being the most diverse, followed by Odontoperini, Palyadini, Boarmiini, Caberini, and Macariini. The inclusion of a new combination for the genus Besma is discussed based on comparative genital morphology. Our results add relevant regional faunistic information and help advance the knowledge of the geometrid fauna in Mexico, and ultimately provide a key step to understanding the biogeographical origin of this diverse moth group in the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Five new species of Entomobryinae (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from China
Five new scaled species, belonging to three genera of Entomobryinae, are described from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Chongqing Municipality, China. Lepidodens maculata sp. nov. is characterised by small blue spots on the body; Lepidosira cheni sp. nov., L. guilinensis sp. nov., and L. montis sp. nov. by their colour pattern and dorsal chaetotaxy of the body; and Willowsia zhangi sp. nov. by its colour pattern. A key to the scaled genera of the subfamily Entomobryinae and a key to the species of Lepidodens are provided.
["Chaetotaxy"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Research on scale insects", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

A new species of the genus Odorrana Fei, Ye & Huang, 1990 (Anura, Ranidae) from southeastern Yunnan, China
A new species of the genus Odorrana is described based on specimens collected from Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. The new species can be distinguished from other species of the genus by a combination of the following characteristics: snout–vent length 43.5–46.9 mm in males, females approximately two times size of males, head length greater than head width, nostril closer to tip of snout than to eye, tibiotarsal articulation reaching tip of snout when hindlimb stretched forward, relative lengths of fingers III > IV > I > II, dorsolateral fold absent, anterior dorsum green with evenly distributed small irregular shaped black blotches and posterior dorsum greyish brown with evenly distributed, large, irregular-shaped, black blotches, external vocal sacs present in adult males. In addition, the new species differs from its congeners by a genetic distance of 3.6%–14.2% in the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Middle Miocene biogeographic connectivity between the Eastern Ghats and Nepal revealed by a new species of the Cyrtodactylus (Geckoella) nebulosus complex (Reptilia, Squamata) from Nepal
A new species of ground-dwelling gecko of the genus Cyrtodactylus (Geckoella) is described from the low elevation Terai-Duar region of southeastern Nepal using molecular and morphological data. Cyrtodactylus teraiensis sp. nov. is the first new species of the C. nebulosus species complex, the remaining members of which are distributed in the northern Eastern Ghats and Satpuras; a lectoype for C. nebulosus is also designated. The new species is the first Geckoella described from outside peninsular India and distributed north of the Indo-Gangetic Plains. Cyrtodactylus teraiensis sp. nov. forms the deeply divergent sister taxon to Indian members of the C. nebulosus complex with 15.7–18.1% uncorrected mitochondrial sequence divergence from them, and 21.0–28.5% from other Geckoella. The new species is also recognised in tree-based delimitation methods and can be morphologically distinguished from other Cyrtodactylus and Geckoella species by a small body size (snout to vent length, SVL up to at least 45.5 mm), length of original tail < SVL, 16–18 rows of dorsal tubercles, 30–32 ventral scales across belly at midbody; dorsal colour pattern of four or five paired spots between neck and hindlimb insertions alternating with two or three much smaller paired spots. The divergence between Cyrtodactylus teraiensis sp. nov. and Indian members of the C. nebulosus complex is estimated to have occurred in the Middle Miocene, and it may be that tropical forest expansion during the Mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum allowed dispersal across the Indo-Gangetic Plains.
["Endemic species"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Paleontology and Evolutionary Biology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new species of the genus Puto Signoret (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Putoidae) from Tibet in China
Putoidae (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) is a small family of scale insects in which the adult females exhibit morphological characteristics that closely resemble those of Pseudococcidae. Here we describe and illustrate the adult female and adult male of a new species, Puto altimontanus Li & Xu, sp. nov., collected from Quercus semecarpifolia (Fagaceae) in a high-altitude mountainous area of Xizang Autonomous Region (Tibet), China.
["Mealybugs"]
["Research on scale insects", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Nuts composition and effects"]

Synopiidae Dana, 1853 (Crustacea, Amphipoda) of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone
The Synopiidae Austrosyrrhoe hamptonae sp. nov. and Syrrhoe manowitzae sp. nov. are morphologically described from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Pacific Ocean. Their descriptions are supplemented by molecular barcodes. Both Austrosyrrhoe and Syrrhoe have been recorded from only a few specimens in previous studies. The ten specimens reported here add to the sparse understanding of the Synopiidae. Also remarkable is the depth range of both genera, occurring in shallow waters of ~50 m to depths of ~5000 m. Prior to this study, the known depth range was less than 3000 m for Austrosyrrhoe and 3500 m for Syrrhoe. In the Clarion-Clipperton Zone the new species Austrosyrrhoe hamptonae sp. nov. was collected at 5109 m and Syrrhoe manowitzae sp. nov. from 4368 m, providing a significant increase in the maximum recorded depths for these genera.
["Austrosyrrhoe"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Two new species from two genera of the family Ampeliscidae Krøyer, 1842 (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Pacific Ocean
Ampeliscidae is a species-diverse family that inhabits oceans around the world at depths from the intertidal to the hadal zone of 6500 m. During a series of collection expeditions to the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, a number of specimens of the family Ampeliscidae were sampled from depths ranging from 4097 m to 4275 m. Included in these samples were two species unknown to science, Byblis hortonae sp. nov. and Byblisoides jazdzewskae sp. nov. Molecular and morphological examination provides descriptions of these species and keys to the deep water Byblis species and the world Byblisoides species.
["Abyss"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A new species of Pardalisca Krøyer, 1842 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Pardaliscidae) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the abyssal central east Pacific
The Pardaliscidae is one of the most abundant and species-rich families of Amphipoda in the deep sea. Among pardaliscid species collected from abyssal depths (4185–4182 m) of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone as part of the MANGAN 2023 cruise, a single large representative of the genus Pardalisca was recovered. The species was confirmed as new to science and is here illustrated and described in detail; a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) image and a molecular barcode are also provided. Pardalisca magdalenae sp. nov. differs from its congeners by the shape of the dorsal process on urosomite 1 as well as the morphology of the gnathopod dactyls.
["Amphipods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Description of a new species of the genus Eperopeus Mills, 1967 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Pardaliscidae) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Central Pacific Ocean
A new species of the previously monotypic genus Eperopeus within the family Pardaliscidae is described from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean. An updated diagnosis of Eperopeus and a key to distinguish the two species is provided.
["Abyss"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

A new genus and species of the family Lepechinellidae Schellenberg, 1926 (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Central Pacific Ocean
A new monotypic genus within the family Lepechinellidae is described from the deep-sea Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean. Pseudolepechinella gen. nov. is distinguished from the other five genera within the family by the rounded/ovoid propodus of the gnathopods, and the unusually short and broadened basis, distally expanded propodus and shortened robust dactyls of the pereopods. The new species is described from two specimens collected more than 180 km apart yet having a 100% COI barcode match. A revised key to the genera within the family is provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

A new species from the genus Lepechinelloides Thurston, 1980 (Amphipoda, Lepechinellidae) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Pacific Ocean
A new species of the genus Lepechinelloides is described from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean. Lepechinelloides polymetallica sp. nov. is distinguished from the other two species in this genus by the ventrally directed midventral extensions on pleonites 1 to 3, widened propodi of both gnathopods, and small upright pointing extensions on all pereonites. This species is both morphologically and molecularly defined and compared to the other two species in the genus.
["Abyssal"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

A new species of Thrombasia J.L. Barnard, 1966 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Tryphosidae) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Central Pacific Ocean
A new species of the genus Thrombasia within the family Tryphosidae is described from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean. A key to distinguish the new species from the six known species is provided, as well as the first molecular barcodes for the genus.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A new species of Lepidepecreum Spence Bate & Westwood, 1868 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Tryphosidae) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the abyssal east Pacific
The Tryphosidae is a species-rich family of the order Amphipoda. During the survey of the abyssal depths of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the east Pacific, a new species of the genus Lepidepecreum was found. The species is here illustrated and described in detail; a confocal laser scanning microscope image and a molecular barcode are also provided. Lepidepecreum myla sp. nov. differs from its congeners by the presence of a dorsal carina on all pereonites, moderately cleft telson (1/3 of the length), and a weak distal expansion of P7 basis, not extending longer than mid-merus. This study provides the first record of the genus from abyssal depths.
["Amphipods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

A revision of the genus Elimedon J.L. Barnard, 1962 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Tryphosidae) with the addition of two new species from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Central Pacific Ocean
Two new species are described in the genus Elimedon within the family Tryphosidae from depths between 4026–4299 m in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Pacific Ocean. A revised diagnosis of Elimedon is provided clarifying the characters which distinguish the genus from the closely related Hippomedon and allied genera. Elimedon breviclunis sp. nov. is described from eight specimens collected between 4273–4299 m depth and is characterised by a strongly shortened uropod 3 inner ramus and a telson which is long and deeply cleft, with widely separated lobes. Elimedon zabka sp. nov. is described from a single specimen of unknown sex collected at 4026 m depth. This species is characterised by a strongly shortened uropod 3 inner ramus, and a shortened (length equal to width) truncate telson. Molecular barcode data are also provided for the two species. The new species are fully illustrated and a key to the four species of Elimedon is provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Two new abyssal Harpiniinae Barnard & Drummond, 1978 (Amphipoda, Phoxocephalidae) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone
Two new species of the phoxocephalid subfamily Harpiniinae are described from the easternmost sector of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone. The material examined was collected with epibenthic sledges during the projects ABYSSLINE-2, MANGAN 2016 and MANGAN 2018 from depths ranging from 4133 to 4359 metres. Harpinia lobata sp. nov. is mainly characterized by: head anteroventral corner with a small projection; gnathopod 1 coxa anteroventrally produced; pereopod 6 basis with posterior proximal expanded lobe; and epimeron 3 posteroventral corner rounded. Harpiniopsis pedro sp. nov. can be diagnosed by: head anteroventral corner with a large projection; mandible palp article 2 shorter than article 3; gnathopods 1–2 palm defined by a subacute hump; pereopod 6 basis with a posterior distal lobe reaching the apex of ischium; and epimeron 3 posteroventral corner produced as a slightly curved spine. Here, we provide the deepest record of the known Harpinia species and the first Harpiniopsis record from the Pacific abyssal plain.
["Amphipods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Two new species of Liljeborgia Spence Bate, 1863 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Liljeborgiidae) from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Pacific Ocean
Two new species of Liljeborgia are described from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central-east Pacific Ocean. Liljeborgia scylla sp. nov. is described from a single immature male specimen collected at 4223 m depth. This species is characterised by a tooth-like protrusion on the second gnathopod, a very narrow basis of pereopods 5–7, and a shallow cleft in the telson. Liljeborgia sibylline sp. nov. was collected at depths ranging from 4107 to 4287 m and is described from six specimens. Despite similarities in morphology to Liljeborgia scylla sp. nov., Liljeborgia sibylline sp. nov. can be distinguished by characters of the gnathopods, telson, and epimeron 3. Molecular barcode data are also provided for both species, offering additional insights into their genetic distinctiveness.
["Abyssal"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Eusiridae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the abyssal east Pacific with descriptions of five new species
Eusiridae is the most abundant and species rich family of Amphipoda collected in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), in the abyssal Eastern Pacific. Here five species new to science are described: Cleonardo daniela sp. nov., Cleonardo compassionate sp. nov., Dorotea elizae sp. nov., Rhachotropis clarionclippertoni sp. nov., and Rhachotropis laure sp. nov. In addition to detailed illustrations, molecular barcodes and confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) images are provided of the new species described. All amphipod taxa from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone were collected at abyssal depths, greater than 4000 metres.
["Cleonardo"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

New deep-sea Amphipoda from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone: 24 new species described under the Sustainable Seabed Knowledge Initiative: One Thousand Reasons campaign
The Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) in the central east Pacific holds significant abundances of manganese nodule deposits. The region is subject to intense exploration for potential future deep-sea mining. One of the challenges associated with understanding potential impacts of extraction of these nodules is the insufficient knowledge of the CCZ fauna. In response to the need for improved taxonomic knowledge of the CCZ fauna, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) initiated the Sustainable Seabed Knowledge Initiative: One Thousand Reasons campaign, aiming to describe 1000 species new to science before the end of the decade. Within this call, a taxonomic workshop “New species of Amphipoda from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone” took place at the University of Lodz, Poland in February 2024, providing the impetus for the description of 24 new species of amphipods from the central Pacific abyss. This special issue is devoted to the publication of the new species from the workshop, and we summarise those findings here.
["Amphipod crustaceans"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Geochemistry and Elemental Analysis", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

A new superfamily and family of the infraorder Hadziida (Amphipoda, Senticaudata) based on a new genus and species from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Pacific Ocean
A remarkable new amphipod species, Mirabestia maisie sp. nov., is described from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, abyssal Pacific Ocean, at depths of 4130–4309 m. The species is described within the new taxa Mirabestioidea superfam. nov., Mirabestiidae fam. nov., and Mirabestia gen. nov., within the suborder Senticaudata. Diagnoses and molecular sequences of five nuclear and mitochondrial genetic markers are provided for the new species. A preliminary phylogenetic reconstruction of the infraorder Hadziida is also presented, based on a concatenated dataset of the COI and histone 3 genetic markers.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Ascodipteron (Diptera, Nycteribiidae, streblid grade) from China: a new species from the lesser brown horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus stheno
Ascodipteron euryale sp. nov. is described from Yunnan Province, China, based on dealate neosomic females extracted from the base of the ear of the lesser brown horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus stheno K. Andersen, 1905; it is the first record of a species of Ascodipteron Adensamer, 1896 from this bat. Morphological evidence is further supported by molecular data from the cytochrome b (Cytb) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) genes. A detailed comparison of the new species with related species is provided, and the new species is accommodated in the most recent key to the world species of Ascodipteron.
["Ascodipteron"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Rabies epidemiology and control"]

Three new species of the family Canuellidae Lang, 1944 (Copepoda, Canuelloida) from the Western Pacific Ocean
Three new species of the copepod family Canuellidae Lang, 1944 (Copepoda, Canuelloida) are described from the Western Pacific Ocean, based on specimens collected from coastal waters of Korea (Jeju-do Island) and the Republic of Palau. This study provides detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations for Elanella jejuensis sp. nov., Brianola coreana sp. nov., and Scottolana picrca sp. nov. Key diagnostic characters differentiating them from congeners include the unique bulbous modification of caudal ramal seta IV in E. jejuensis sp. nov., the presence of an inner seta on the P1 exopod-2 in B. coreana sp. nov., and features including reduced urosome segmentation and a modified female caudal seta II that place S. picrca sp. nov. within the longipes-group. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and nuclear 18S ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) sequences recovers each new species as a distinct, well-supported lineage and resolves two major clades within Canuellidae: (Elanella + Brianola) and (Scottolana + Canuella). The phylogeny further indicates that Elanella and Brianola are sister taxa, and places S. picrca sp. nov. within the longipes-group; however, the placement of S. picrca sp. nov. as sister to S. wonchoeli is weakly supported (57% bootstrap). These findings significantly advance our understanding of Canuellidae diversity and evolution in the understudied Western Pacific region.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

A new nanophyine genus, Zhangius gen. nov., with descriptions of two new species (Coleoptera, Brentidae, Nanophyinae) from China and Thailand
A new nanophyine genus, Zhangius Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, gen. nov., with two new species Zhangius rhymbon Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, sp. nov. (type species) and Zhangius lophos Wang & Alonso-Zarazaga, sp. nov., are described. The diagnostic characters of the new genus and species are provided. Keys to the male and female of the species and host data are presented.
["Chiang Mai"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies"]

Formosania tangi, a new species of suck-loach (Cypriniformes, Gastromyzontidae) from the Jiulongjiang River, southeastern China, with taxonomic notes on F. fascicauda
For decades, populations of the suck-loach genus Formosania from the Jiulongjiang River in Fujian Province, China, have been identified as F. fascicauda, a species originally described from in a separate coastal drainage basin in Fuqing County. Employing an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, we demonstrate that the Jiulongjiang River population represents a distinct species, formally described here as Formosania tangi sp. nov. It is diagnosed by a combination of characters: 13 rostral barbels arranged in two rows, a distinct straight, dark, longitudinal stripe along the lateral line, and an emarginate caudal fin. Phylogenetic analyses consistently recover it as a unique evolutionary lineage showing significant genetic divergence from true F. fascicauda, with a Kimura 2-parameter distance of 4.16%. The description of F. tangi clarifies the taxonomic status of the Jiulongjiang River population and enhances our understanding of species diversity and biogeography of Formosania in the coastal drainages of southeastern China.
["Molecular phylogeny"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

A faunistic revision of Fulgoromorpha and Cicadomorpha (Insecta, Hemiptera) of Lithuania
The article presents an updated checklist and a catalogue of Fulgoromorpha and Cicadomorpha of Lithuania based on analysis of published records, material preserved in available institutional and private collections of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, and material collected between 2017 and 2025 from various regions of Lithuania. A total of 360 species belonging to 147 genera of Fulgoromorpha and Cicadomorpha are confirmed for the Lithuanian fauna; 20 species are reported in this article for the first time from Lithuania, four of which are newly recorded in the Baltic States.
["Auchenorrhyncha"]

Sarimini from Vietnam: first record of the genus Tetrichina with a new species, and a new species of Dactylissus (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae)
Two new planthopper species of the family Issidae, tribe Sarimini are described from Central Vietnam. Dactylissus sinuatus Constant & Pham, sp. nov. from Hon Ba Nature Reserve in Khanh Hoa Province, represents the second species of the genus Dactylissus Gnezdilov & Bourgoin, 2014 so far known only from Hon Ba, and Tetrichina honbana Constant & Pham, sp. nov. from Hon Ba Nature Reserve, Nui Chua National Park in Khanh Hoa Province and Ta Kou Nature Reserve in Binh Thuan Province, represents the first record of the genus Tetrichina Chang & Chen, 2020 in Vietnam. Illustrations of habitus and terminalia of the new species are given as well as a distribution map and photographs of live specimens and their habitat.

Morphology and molecular phylogeny of a new ciliate Anteholosticha nanjiensis sp. nov. (Ciliophora, Hypotrichia) collected from the coastal intertidal zone of the East China Sea
A new hypotrich ciliate, Anteholosticha nanjiensis sp. nov., was isolated from a sandy beach in Wenzhou, China. Its morphology was investigated using detailed live observation and protargol staining, and its phylogenetic position was assessed through small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA) sequence analyses. The new species is characterized as follows: size in vivo 90–115 × 40–50 µm; body shape elliptical and dorsoventrally flattened; 2–4 globular macronuclear nodules; 8–14 midventral cirral pairs; colourless cortical granules (about 0.5 µm in diameter) arranged in short longitudinal rows. Phylogenetic analyses robustly placed A. nanjiensis sp. nov. within a clade containing A. pseudomonilata Li et al., 2011a and A. marimonilata Xu et al., 2011. However, it differs from these congeners by having 13 and 14 nucleotides in its SSU rDNA sequence, respectively, supporting its status as a distinct species. Morphologically, A. nanjiensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from related species by its body size, number of macronuclear nodules, transverse cirri count, and cortical granulation distribution. This study provides comprehensive morphological and molecular data establishing foundational references for resolving the apparent polyphyly of Anteholosticha. While full resolution may require integration of additional evidence (e.g. morphogenetic data or TEM ultrastructure), our dataset delivers essential comparative frameworks for future taxonomic revisions.
["hypotrichs"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Five new leafhopper species of Limassolla Dlabola from Thailand and Madagascar (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae)
Based on the male genitalia, five new leafhopper species of Limassolla, L. pygalis Ran & Song, sp. nov., L. maehongsonensis Ran & Song, sp. nov., L. yangi Ran & Song, sp. nov., L. lampangensis Yuan & Song, sp. nov. and L. andasibensis Yuan & Song, sp. nov., are described and illustrated. The collecting localities are as follows: L. pygalis sp. nov. from Pa Hin Ngam National Park, Dipterocarp forest, Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand; L. maehongsonensis sp. nov. from Namtok Mae Surin National Park, Haad Saen/Huai Fai Kor Reservoir, Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand; L. yangi sp. nov. from Tat Tone National Park, Dry Dipterocarp Forest, Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand; L. lampangensis sp. nov. from Chae Son National Park, Spa/roadside, Lampang Province, Thailand; and L. andasibensis sp. nov. from a botanic garden near the entrance to Andasibe National Park, Toamasina Province, Madagascar.
["Microleafhoppers"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Research on scale insects", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Tiny guardian of the spring: Description of the first Islamiinae (Mollusca, Hydrobiidae) from the Caucasus
Gveleshapia kvevri gen. et sp. nov. represents the first formally described species of Islamiinae from the Caucasus, extending the distribution of this subfamily far beyond its traditionally outlined Mediterranean range. The new taxon was discovered during fieldwork in 2021–2022 in Mandaeti village, Imereti, Georgia. Morphological examination of seven ethanol-preserved specimens and six empty shells, combined with phylogenetic analysis, confirms its distinct taxonomic status. The genus is characterized by an elongate-conical shell with up to 5.2 whorls, trilobate penis morphology, and the absence of a bursa copulatrix in the female reproductive system. Phylogenetic reconstruction places Gveleshapia kvevri sp. nov. within a highly supported clade as sister to Islamia valvataeformis (Möllendorff, 1873) and Alzoniella braccoensis Bodon & Cianfanelli, 2004. The species is known from two spring localities 1.7 km apart, confirming its critically restricted stygobiont distribution. The findings highlight the taxonomic instability of Islamiinae, which appears paraphyletic in molecular analyses; the Caucasian lineage of Gveleshapia kvevri sp. nov. further underscores the need for a comprehensive systematic revision. The localized distribution and anthropogenic pressures warrant conservation consideration.
["Cave"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Morphological characters of the immature stages of Tychius (Apeltarius) amplicollis Aubé, 1850 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Curculioninae, Tychiini), supported by molecular and biological data, suggest that Apeltarius Desbrochers des Loges, 1873 is a new synonym of Tychius Germar, 1817
Tychius is a speciose and widespread weevil genus, whose phylogenetic relationships are largely unknown. Here we assess the validity of the subgenus Apeltarius using an integrative approach combining larval morphology and molecular data. The mature larva and pupa of Tychius (Apeltarius) amplicollis Aubé, 1850 are described and illustrated in detail for the first time. Comparisons with known immature stages of several species of Tychius s. str. reveal that the larva and pupa of T. amplicollis exhibit all diagnostic features characteristic of the genus Tychius, showing closest affinity to T. (Tychius) quinquepunctatus (Linnaeus, 1758). Phylogenetic analysis of a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene confirms their close relationship and supports the inclusion of T. amplicollis in the genus Tychius. Newly obtained biological data show that the life history and host-plant associations of T. amplicollis match those of other Tychius species, with Fabeae (Fabaceae) as hosts. Based on this evidence, we propose that Apeltarius be treated as a junior subjective synonym (syn. nov.) of Tychius. Because there are no other subgenera in the genus Tychius we propose the following combinations: Tychius amplicollis Aubé, 1850; Tychius multilineatus (Desbrochers des Loges, 1873); Tychius quinquelineatus Tournier, 1874; Tychius strigulatus (Desbrochers des Loges, 1875).
["Host plant"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

The genus Plateros Bourgeois, 1879 (Coleoptera, Lycidae): Two new species from Central Vietnam
Two new species of the genus Plateros Bourgeois, 1879, P. bachmaensis sp. nov. and P. phulocensis sp. nov., are described from Bach Ma National Park, central Vietnam. Plateros bannaensis Kazantsev, 2017 is recorded from Vietnam for the first time, found in Phia Oac-Phia Đen National Park, Cao Bang province, in northern Vietnam. This addition to the fauna of the region complements the recently published review of Plateros of Indochina, increasing the number of its species to 92, and the number of species registered in Vietnam, with the discovery of a species previously known only from Yunnan, to 73. A full list of Plateros species of Vietnam is provided.
["Bach Ma national park"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies"]

Description of a new species of the genus Riukiaria (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Xystodesmidae) from eastern China, with the characterization of its complete mitochondrial genome
This study describes a new millipede species of the genus Riukiaria from China: Riukiaria langyaensis sp. nov., and provides an identification key to all 19 Riukiaria species currently known from China. A systematic review was conducted on the 34 described Riukiaria species, and these species were classified into five categories based on the morphology of the male gonopod. The complete mitochondrial genome of this new species was sequenced and annotated for the first time, representing the first mitogenomic data reported for the genus Riukiaria. The mitogenome of R. langyaensis sp. nov. is 14,954 bp in length, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a control region, with an overall A+T content of 65.8%. All 37 mitochondrial genes are encoded on the Heavy strand. The results help clarify the confused species relationships within Riukiaria and provide fundamental data for phylogenetic studies of Xystodesmidae.
["Complete mitochondrial genome"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

First new species of the Neotropical genus Lactistomyia Melander, 1902 (Diptera, Hybotidae) from the Palearctic Region
Lactistomyia koreana sp. nov., the first species of the genus Lactistomyia Melander, 1902, recorded from the Palearctic Region, is described based on four female and one male specimens collected in Korea. Our discovery of the Lactistomyia species from Korea documents an unusual trans-Pacific distribution of the genus previously known only from the Neotropical Region. The systematic affinities of the new species with the Neotropical Lactistomyia is supported by a phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences. An updated checklist and identification key to the world species of Lactistomyia is provided, and morphological characters distinguishing the new species from its congers are discussed. Lactistomyia koreana sp. nov. is morphologically most similar to Lactistomyia paranaensis Ale-Rocha, 2008, from Paraná, Brazil, for which holotype images are presented for comparison. In addition, the generic placement of Lactistomyia polita Melander, 1928, from the Philippines—which was previously transferred to Syndyas Loew, 1857, and was given the new name, Syndyas melanderi Ale-Rocha, 2008—is discussed based on examination of holotype images. These findings confirm L. koreana sp. nov. as the first unequivocal record of Lactistomyia from the Old World.
["COI barcode"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

An updated herpetological inventory of the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, eastern Mindanao Island, Philippines
A formal synthesis of the occurrence of herpetofauna species in Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary remained scant since the documentation of historical records by E.H. Taylor in the early 20th century. Here, an updated checklist of the Agusan Marsh herpetofauna is provided. 49 species (16 amphibians and 33 reptiles) are recorded from the Agusan Marsh’s peat and freshwater swamp forests, specifically, amphibians in the families Bufonidae, Ceratobatrachidae, Dicroglossidae, Microhylidae, Megophryidae, Ranidae, and Rhacophoridae; lizards in the families Agamidae, Gekkonidae, Dibamidae, Scincidae, and Varanidae; snakes in the families Colubridae, Cyclocoridae, Psammodynastidae, Pareidae, Pythonidae, Typhlopidae, and Viperidae; and a turtle in the family Geoemydidae. Our Shannon Diversity Indices calculations suggest that diversity might be declining, but more surveys are needed to sample the total species richness of the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary. Our checklist highlights 14 new records (6 amphibians, 8 reptiles) and the presence of four invasive alien species in Agusan Marsh. Given the tremendous historical significance of the region, Agusan Marsh may represent one of the most significant focal study sites for assessing the impacts of historical land use and climate change in the Philippines. This work also demonstrates the importance of temporally sequential survey-resurveys for updating baseline biodiversity data to inform management decisions and conservation actions for this unique wetland ecosystem in Southeast Asia.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

A new cryptic species of Chelidurella Verhoeff, 1902 (Dermaptera, Forficulidae) from the Italian Alps: molecular evidence reveals hidden diversity in a high-altitude refugium
The cryptic diversity within the earwig genus Chelidurella Verhoeff, 1902 remains underestimated despite growing evidence from molecular phylogenetic studies. During recent collecting efforts in the Adamello-Presanella Alps, a population of Chelidurella specimens that morphologically resemble C. mutica (Krauss, 1886) but exhibit distinct molecular divergence was discovered. Based on integrative taxonomic analysis combining molecular evidence with detailed morphological examination, Chelidurella maccagnoae Kočárek & Fontana, sp. nov. is described. Despite sharing the diagnostic shortened pygidium with C. mutica, phylogenetic analysis reveals that C. maccagnoae Kočárek & Fontana, sp. nov. is more closely related to the C. vignai / C. pseudovignai species complex, indicating convergent evolution of this character rather than shared ancestry. An updated identification key to Chelidurella males is provided and the biogeographic implications for understanding Quaternary diversification patterns in flightless Alpine arthropods discussed.
["Alpine biogeography"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A new species of Tequila Giant Skipper Aegiale C. Felder & R. Felder, 1860 (Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae, Megathymina) from Sonora, Mexico
Aegiale C. Felder & R. Felder, 1860 has traditionally been treated as a monotypic genus of Giant Skippers (Hesperiidae: Megathymina), represented by A. hesperiaris (Walker, 1856), which occurs from northern to central Mexico, mostly east of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range. Here, we describe a second species, Aegiale occidentalis KC, McGuire & Shirey, sp. nov., from Sonora, Mexico, occurring in the Sierra Madre Occidental. Morphological comparisons, including female genitalia, were used to diagnose the new species. Aegiale occidentalis sp. nov. differs from A. hesperiaris in dorsal forewing coloration, with fully orange apical and discal cell spots, and in female genitalia, including shorter papillae anales and a reduced sterigma. We provide illustrations of the habitus and female genitalia of both species, a key to differentiate them, and a key to distinguish Aegiale from other Megathymina genera. The discovery of A. occidentalis sp. nov. expands the known diversity of the genus and highlights underexplored montane regions in northwestern Mexico, with implications for the biogeography of agave-feeding Megathymina.
["Agave"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

Three new species and four new records of the genus Aleuroclava Singh (Hemiptera, Aleyrodidae) from China, with the first description of seasonal dimorphism in the genus
Three new species of the genus Aleuroclava Singh viz., A. bannanensis sp. nov. (Yunnan: Xishuangbanna), A. rubi sp. nov. (Zhejiang: Hangzhou), and A. yunnanensis sp. nov. (Yunnan: Xishuangbanna) are described and illustrated. And four species of the genus, viz. A. bifurcata (Yunnan: Xishuangbanna), A. citrifolii (Yunnan: Xishuangbanna), A. pearlis (Yunnan: Xishuangbanna), and A. stereospermi (Yunnan: Pu’er) are new records to the known fauna of China. In addition, the seasonal dimorphism changes of A. montanus are recorded for the first time, and comments on its morphology are provided. This brings the number of Chinese species of Aleuroclava to 44. Images of the habitus, line illustrations, and scanning electron microscope photomicrographs are provided.
["Aleyrodinae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Research on scale insects"]

An updated checklist of mosquitoes (Diptera, Culicidae) of Ecuador: new records and public health significance
Mosquitoes are major vectors of human and animal diseases, making their accurate identification essential for vector surveillance and control. However, morphological identification has often been challenging, requiring taxonomic expertise and well-preserved specimens. Molecular markers, particularly DNA barcoding, offer an effective alternative for identifying both adult and immature stages. Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, a diversity that is also evident in its Culicidae fauna. This study provides a comprehensive revision of Ecuadorian mosquitoes, updating the national checklist and emphasizing species of public health importance. For species identification, an integrative approach was used combining morphology and DNA barcoding (COI and ITS2 regions). We list 266 species in 22 genera, of which 17 species are new national records, and 33 species are validated through molecular analysis. The updated checklist highlights Ecuador’s Culicidae diversity across its biogeographic regions, which represent 7% of the world’s mosquito diversity. These findings provide a critical foundation for future entomological research and vector control in the country.
["Culicidae"]
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Malaria Research and Control", "Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment"]

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

Unraveling an extreme AT-rich and complex mitochondrial genome: the first complete mitogenome of the species-rich family Diaspididae (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha) and its evolutionary implications
The assembly of insect mitochondrial genomes remains challenging in certain taxa due to extreme AT biases and long repetitive regions. The family Diaspididae (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) exemplifies this difficulty; despite more than 2,700 described species worldwide, no complete mitogenome has been reported prior to this study. Here, the complete mitogenome is presented of Aulacaspis yasumatsui, assembled using a hybrid approach combining second- and third-generation sequencing platforms. The A. yasumatsui mitogenome is the longest identified to date among scale insects, spanning 21,273 bp. It exhibits several extraordinary features, most notably the highest AT content (92%) yet recorded in Insecta, extensive gene rearrangements, the absence of half of the tRNA genes, and the first identified ultra-long repeat region (> 5,000 bp) in Coccomorpha. The leg degeneration and loss observed in Diaspididae evolution may have contributed to the emergence of such an extreme mitogenome structure. Comparative analysis of sequencing strategies revealed substantial coverage bias in Illumina data, which was effectively mitigated by Oxford Nanopore long reads. We propose a standardized pipeline tailored for efficient and accurate assembly of highly AT-rich and structurally complex mitogenomes. This study provides both methodological insights and a valuable genomic resource for future evolutionary and comparative studies on Diaspididae and other taxa with challenging mitogenomes.
["Armored scale insect"]
["Research on scale insects", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A new species of Oriental-endemic Thalerosphyrus Eaton, 1881 (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) from the Chinese Yunnan Oriental–Palaearctic transition zone and insights into cryptic diversity in the T. flowersi complex
The Ephemeropteran genus Thalerosphyrus Eaton, 1881 (Heptageniidae: Ecdyonurinae) is an Oriental-endemic genus hitherto comprising ten species, distributed from Sundaland to the Western Ghats of India and northeastern Indochina. Here, Thalerosphyrus lannaae sp. nov., belonging to the T. sinuosus group, is described from Yunnan Province (China), marking the northernmost record of the genus and extending its distribution into the Oriental–Palaearctic transitional zone. We also examined existing molecular data for T. flowersi, which revealed multiple deeply divergent lineages across India and Thailand, with the new species genetically closest to one of the Thai lineages. These findings highlight unrecognised cryptic diversity within the genus and underscore the need for taxonomic revision. An updated species key to Thalerosphyrus is provided. We discuss how larval preference for moderately cool, fast-flowing streams may explain the discovery of this tropically adapted Oriental-endemic genus in such high latitudes, and we explore the importance of transitional zones for aquatic insect diversity.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Diatoms and Algae Research", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Contributions to the knowledge of slugs and semi-slugs (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Stylommatophora) from Algeria
Seventeen species of slugs and semi-slugs from northern Algeria are described and discussed. The species are provided with synonyms, brief descriptions of external characters and genitalia, distribution, and ecology. Some taxonomic and biogeographical issues are discussed, and a key to the species is given. The paper is based on the analysis of material collected in North Algeria between 2018 and 2022 and on a critical review of the available literature data. Ambigolimax parvipenis is recorded for the first time from Algeria. Limax brondelianus Bourguignat, 1861 is regarded as a valid species of Deroceras as D. cf. brondelianum comb. nov. Two new synonyms are proposed: Amalia cabiliana Pollonera, 1891, syn. nov. is proposed as a junior synonym of Milax gagates (Draparnaud, 1801); Ariunculus pallaryi Collinge, 1904, syn. nov. is proposed as a junior synonym of Letourneuxia nyctelia Bourguignat, 1861.
["Check-list"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology"]

Re-delimitation of the genus Emertonella (Araneae, Theridiidae, Hadrotarsinae) and taxonomic notes on Euryopis and Phycosoma from China
Hadrotarsinae Thorell, 1881 is a subfamily of cobweb spiders (Theridiidae) distributed worldwide and generally regarded as specialized ant predators. The taxonomy of Hadrotarsinae is problematic due to unclear delimitation of genera, leading to likely misplacement of many species. In the current paper, we provide taxonomic amendments for Emertonella Bryant, 1945, Euryopis Menge, 1868, and Phycosoma O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1880 based on Chinese materials. Examination of Eu. deplanata Schenkel, 1936 and Em. taczanowskii (Keyserling, 1886) supports Yoshida’s concept of Emertonella and provides additional morphological evidence for refining the generic diagnosis. Accordingly, Eu. deplanata is formally transferred, with 30 additional species, from Euryopis to Emertonella, and Em. taczanowskii is redescribed. Furthermore, Physcoa mingyaoi (Yin, 2012), comb. nov. ex. Euryopis and Lasaeola stigmosum (Yin, 2012), comb. nov. ex. Phycosoma are transferred, and one new synonym is proposed, Phycosoma amamiense (Yoshida, 1985), syn. nov. = Phycosoma japonicum (Yoshida, 1985). Finally, the first descriptions of the males of Em. deplanata (Schenkel, 1936), comb. nov. and Phycosoma ripa (Zhu, 1998) are provided.
["Cobweb spiders"]

Two complete mitochondrial genomes of the family Paradoxosomatidae (Diplopoda, Polydesmida) with phylogenetic implications
Millipedes (class Diplopoda) are vital soil invertebrates that play key roles in litter decomposition and nutrient cycling. However, their phylogenetic relationships remain poorly resolved due to limited genomic resources. In this study, we sequenced and characterized the complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of two paradoxosomatid millipedes, Oxidus gracilis (15,034 bp) and Kronopolites swinhoei (15,277 bp). Both mitogenomes contain the typical set of 37 genes, all located on the minor strand (N-strand), and display high AT content. The conserved gene arrangement observed here may represent a molecular synapomorphy for this taxonomic group. Analysis of codon usage revealed that start codons includ ATN (ATA/ATG/ATT), TTG, and GTG, while stop codons consisted of TAN (TAA/TAG/TAT) and an incomplete single T. Relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) analysis indicated that Leu2, Val, and Gly were the most frequently used codon families, whereas Gln, Cys, and Lys were the least utilized. The tRNA genes formed two distinct clusters, and the rRNAs were flanked by tRNA-Val. The D-loop region was located in a similar position in both species. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on 13 protein-coding genes from 34 diplopod species, using both Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood methods, strongly supported the interordinal relationships among Julida, Spirostreptida, and Spirobolida, and placed O. gracilis and K. swinhoei in distinct clades. Our findings provide valuable mitogenomic data and new phylogenetic insights into Diplopoda, underscoring the importance of expanded taxonomic sampling to further elucidate evolutionary relationships within this ecologically significant group.
["Diplopoda"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Stolephorus falco sp. nov. (Teleostei, Clupeiformes, Engraulidae), a new anchovy from Sumatra, Indonesia
A new anchovy species, Stolephorus falco sp. nov., is described based on three museum specimens collected from northern Sumatra, Indonesia. Although the new species resembles S. baganensis Delsman, 1931, S. dubiosus Wongratana, 1983, S. taurus Hata, Lavoué & Motomura, 2022, and S. tri (Bleeker, 1852) in having a predorsal scute and a spine on the pelvic scute, it differs from all four of these taxa in having a distinctively deeper body, fewer scales on the longitudinal series, and additional differences in a number of other characters.
["Actinopterygii"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

New species and faunistic records of Chironomidae (Diptera, Insecta) from Belize
Four new species and 11 new faunistic records of Chironomidae are described and reported from the Guanacaste National Park, a small patch of tropical forest in the Belize Lowlands, adjacent to the Belize River and in proximity to an urban area. Labrundinia belizensis sp. nov. has a unique pattern and coloration on its abdominal tergites and possesses a transverse sternapodeme without an anterior process, distinguishing it from other related species. Cricotopus mayaorum sp. nov., and Lauterborniella solangelhugo sp. nov. are unusual in their characteristics of antenna, thorax, and hypopygium in comparison to the related species in their respective genus. The Polypedilum (Tripodura) francisae sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by a broad and conoid anal point and a bulbous superior volsella that has a basolateral brush of long spine-like setae. Additionally, in this study, we report on new faunistic records of Chironomidae with both the Nearctic and the Neotropical influence. Given the short period of sampling (i.e., a few days) in which this study was conducted and the number of discoveries, the importance of the Neotropical study of Chironomidae biodiversity can be recognized.
["Belize"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

A new species of Athelges (Crustacea, Isopoda, Epicaridea, Bopyridae) from Japan, with morphological and DNA barcode data
Athelges pileus sp. nov. is described as an abdominal bopyrid of the hermit crab Diogenes edwardsii collected from the Noto Peninsula, Japan. Athelges pileus sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characters. Female: head deeply sunk in thorax, anterolateral margin of head with pair of notches; anterior margin of frontal lamina concave; merus of pereopod 1 with broad and long projection ventrally; pereopods 5 and 6 with large gap between them; pleomeres 1–4 each with subovate biramous pleopods; each pleopod with peduncle, becoming smaller posteriorly; pleotelson with mushroom-shaped end. Male: pleon subovate with anal cone distally. The present species is the 14th member of the genus Athelges, and the second species from Asia. This is the second species of Athelges infesting Diogenes edwardsii. We also provide a partial sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene (658 bp), mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene (482 bp), and nuclear 18S rRNA (724 bp) as a DNA barcode for the species. We show by molecular phylogenetic analysis that the present species is distinct from A. takanoshimensis.
["Asia"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Thirteen new species of the genus Meleonoma Meyrick, 1914 (Lepidoptera, Autostichidae) from China
Thirteen new species belonging to the dentivalvata species group of the genus Meleonoma Meyrick are described. They are M. anisomorpha sp. nov., M. apicitriangula sp. nov., M. bisecta sp. nov., M. corniculata sp. nov., M. longisacca sp. nov., M. ovaliuncatus sp. nov., M. plicativa sp. nov., M. producta sp. nov., M. quadrata sp. nov., M. renaria sp. nov., M. simililunformis sp. nov., M. strena sp. nov., and M. utricularis sp. nov. Images of both adults and genitalia of the new species are provided.
["Gelechioidea"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Supplementary description and molecular analysis of Stiphodon hadiatyae (Teleostei, Gobioidei, Sicydiinae) from Enggano Island, Indonesia
The present study provides a supplementary morphological description, the first molecular analysis, and the first description of female of Stiphodon hadiatyae Nurjirana, Gustiano, Haryono & Wibowo, 2025. In addition, the first distributional record of the species from outside Enggano Island is noted, based on underwater photographs from Padang, Sumatra, Indonesia. Although recently described, the original account lacked both molecular data and female diagnostic characters. Phylogenetic and morphological evidence confirms placement within the “Stiphodon sapphirinus group” characterized by generally having 14 pectoral fin rays and a smaller adult body size (usually < 40 mm SL). Stiphodon hadiatyae differs from its congeners by the following characteristics: males possess a pointed first dorsal fin, with an elongated, filamentous fourth spine, fewer premaxillary tricuspid teeth, a belly entirely covered by cycloid scales, and a slightly pointed caudal fin. Coloration also distinguishes both sexes from congeners: males with a blue head with a brown snout, body greyish, median fins orange, and a distinct black blotch at caudal fin base; females with orange to red first, second dorsal, and anal fins, and a caudal fin proximally red to orange with four or five rows of brown spots.
["Amphidromous"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

The Swedish Thripidae (Thysanoptera) – with additional notes on wetland thrips
The Swedish fauna of thrips (Thysanoptera) within the family Thripidae is reviewed in this study. Thripidae is one of the most diverse thrips families, containing many economically important pest species, as well as species of ecological significance. The current investigation updates the knowledge of this family in Sweden, detailing the distribution, ecological associations, and providing the first comprehensive checklist for Swedish Thripidae. We present new records, including first records for Sweden and several regional records, with a detailed morphological identification key. Ten new species are recorded for Sweden, and a total of 98 new provincial records are presented. A total of 567 COI barcode sequences were generated, representing 49 species, and uploaded to BOLD.
["First records"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

Redescription and neotype designation of Dopasia formosensis (Kishida, 1930) (Squamata, Anguidae) from Taiwan
The legless anguid lizard Dopasia Gray, 1853 is one of the most secretive and least studied lizard groups. Historically, two Dopasia (Squamata: Anguidae) names have been applied to Taiwanese material: D. harti (Boulenger, 1899), originally described from Fujian, China and characterized by conspicuous bluish dorsal blotches, and D. formosensis (Kishida, 1930), described from Taiwan and reported to lack such markings. Taiwanese specimens were long treated as representing two species until Lin et al. (2003) synonymized D. formosensis with D. harti after finding no consistent molecular or scalation differences, and interpreted the presence/absence of bluish blotches as sexual dichromatism. Because topotypic D. harti was not examined in that study and the original type material of D. formosensis has been lost, the application of these names to Taiwanese populations has remained uncertain. Here, we designate a neotype for D. formosensis and provide a detailed redescription based on vouchered specimens from Taiwan. We present standardized morphometric and meristic datasets, including X-ray–based vertebral counts, and generate new mitochondrial sequences to document genetic variation. With the aim of facilitating repeatable comparisons within the East Asian Dopasia species complex, all measurements and counts are made openly available to support future integrative taxonomic reassessments and to improve nomenclatural stability for this rarely encountered lineage. Taken together with currently available lines of evidence, these results suggest recognizing Dopasia formosensis (Kishida, 1930) as a distinct evolutionary lineage, pending a formal systematic revision of the genus.
["Dopasia harti"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Taxonomic notes on the genus Hexanchorus Sharp, 1882 and Heterelmis Sharp, 1882 from Bolivia (Coleoptera, Elmidae)
The genus Hexanchorus Sharp, 1882 is represented in Bolivia by one species, H. tibialis Hinton, 1935. A series of this species was originally collected by Germain in the Yungas of Cochabamba and, in 1935, described by Hinton based on a single specimen that is in poor condition and lacks several key characters. Here, we redescribe H. tibialis based on additional material collected by Germain and describe a new species, H. siriono sp. nov., from Santa Cruz, Bolivia, which exhibits striking male sexual dimorphism in the protarsi. Both species are illustrated with photographs of the habitus and drawings of the male genitalia, and for H. siriono sp. nov. also the female genitalia. Germain’s journey in Bolivia and its known elmid fauna are briefly discussed. Additionally, Helmis cervina Grouvelle, 1896 and Helmis longior Grouvelle, 1896, both from Bolivia, are formally transferred to Heterelmis Sharp, 1882. The lectotype of the latter species is designated.
["Larainae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

New mitochondrial genomes of Saccostrea (Mollusca, Ostreidae) specimens from Hainan Island
The taxonomic classification of oysters, particularly within the genus Saccostrea, remains poorly resolved due to limitations in traditional morphological and single-gene approaches. To address this, we sequenced the mitochondrial genomes of four Saccostrea specimens (Saccostrea MBSR 211-214) from Hainan Island. The complete mitochondrial genomes (16,280–16,289 bp) revealed a conserved gene arrangement, including 12 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 23 transfer RNA (tRNA), and two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes on a single strand, with a fragmented 16S rRNA gene as a distinctive feature. Different OTU delimitation methods consistently identified these four lineages as two novel operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Within one of the OTUs, there are high levels of intraspecific divergence, exhibiting the potential for independent evolution. Our analysis reclassified the publicly available mitochondrial genomes of Saccostrea into nine OTUs, further revealing significant mislabeling on GenBank as indicated by previous studies. The study adds new mitogenomic resources for Saccostrea and provides data useful for future integrative taxonomic work.
["Bivalvia"]
["Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Amphibians and reptiles of Samar Island Natural Park, Philippines, with an updated checklist, a rediscovery, and new records for Samar Island
The Philippine archipelago is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and high endemism, particularly among amphibians and reptiles. Samar Island, the third largest in the country and a key element of the Greater Mindanao Pleistocene Aggregate Island Complex, still harbors swathes of old-growth forest and limestone karst systems, making it a critical site for understanding biogeographic and evolutionary patterns in the Philippines. The herpetofaunal diversity of Samar remains poorly documented, with data scattered and woefully outdated. Early collections date back to the mid-19th century, and while recent efforts have incrementally improved species inventories, a comprehensive and updated assessment remains lacking. Here, we present the results of recent intensive surveys conducted within the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) and adjacent protected areas. Our study reports 79 species from SINP and a total of 104 species from Samar Island, including three new island records, and confirms the continued presence of historically documented taxa. The rediscovery of Ramphotyphlops marxi is reported and the most updated checklist of the island’s amphibian and reptile species provided. These findings highlight the importance of sustained biodiversity assessments across the Philippine archipelago to inform conservation strategies.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Coleophora cytisicolella sp. nov., a new species (Lepidoptera, Coleophoridae), from Austria and Hungary bred from Chamaecytisus austriacus
We describe Coleophora cytisicolella sp. nov. (Lepidoptera: Coleophoridae), a new species from material collected in Austria and Hungary during recent fieldwork. The collected specimens were found only in these countries within the Pannonian Biogeographical Region, and were exclusively associated with Chamaecytisus austriacus (L.) Link (Fabaceae). The taxonomic status of the new species was determined by applying traditional macro- and micromorphological methods and genetic analysis, including genitalia examinations and DNA barcoding (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I). In addition to the results of morphological comparisons and genetic analysis, we present further information on the habitat, life history, and larval food plant of this species. Our results revealed that the examined individuals belong to a species new to science, which is a member of the Coleophora genistae Stainton, 1857 species group, and described here as C. cytisicolella sp. nov. Based on the molecular results, the closest relative of the new taxon is Coleophora bruttia, a species described from southern Italy. Although the examined barcoding sequence poorly differentiated these taxa, the micromorphological features of the genitalia revealed their separate status.
["Austria"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

The genus Tinginotum Kirkaldy, 1902 (Hemiptera, Miridae, Mirinae) with description of a new species from Vietnam and additional notes on Southeast Asian materials
The plant bug genus Tinginotum Kirkaldy is reviewed from Vietnam. Four species are recognized, including a new species, Tinginotum linhi Kim, Chérot & Jung, sp. nov., and new distributional records of T. bilineatum and T. perlatum from Vietnam. Detailed diagnoses, descriptions, and a key to the Vietnamese species are provided. Male and female genitalia of T. bilineatum and female genitalia of T. knowlesi are described and illustrated for the first time. In addition to reviewing the Vietnamese fauna, distributional records from neighboring countries were also examined, leading to updated occurrence data for the genus. A particular focus is given to the potential broad-range distribution of T. perlatum, considering whether this pattern reflects a truly widespread species or unresolved conspecificity with taxa described from tropical regions. Furthermore, for several Southeast Asian species that were described long ago, the early 19th century, but remain poorly known, we provide photographs of the type specimens and summarize the essential key characters based on the images examined and the original descriptions. These notes are intended to encourage future comprehensive taxonomic research on the genus and its related taxa.
["New species"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

New data on long-jawed spiders (Araneae, Tetragnathidae, Tetragnatha) from China
Two species of Tetragnatha Latreille, 1804 are described, including one new species, Tetragnatha tricuspidata sp. nov. (♀♂) from Sichuan and Shaanxi Provinces, and one Chinese newly recorded species, Tetragnatha hirashimai Okuma, 1987 from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Yunnan Province. Detailed descriptions, photographs, and a distribution map of both species are provided.
["Morphology"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new sand-dwelling species of Rineloricaria (Siluriformes, Loricariidae) from the Eastern Brazilian Basin
We describe Rineloricaria harenae sp. nov., a sand-dwelling armoured catfish from the Itapocú River, Jaraguá do Sul, Santa Catarina, Brazil. The new species is diagnosed by a distinctive combination of characters: (1) four lateral plate series, with the mid-dorsal series absent; (2) abdomen only partially covered by central plates that do not reach the pectoral-fin insertion; (3) plates of the central abdominal complex arranged in an approximately triangular pattern; (4) cleithral (scapular) region entirely naked or bearing a few small, isolated plates; and (5) presence of five dark transverse bars on the dorsal surface of the body. Mitochondrial COI data corroborate species distinctiveness, and phylogenetic inference under the GTR model recovers R. harenae as a well-supported lineage. The species is currently known only from the type locality, a shallow (< 1 m), sandy reach showing early siltation, suggesting potential vulnerability. Although it exhibits canonical traits of sand-dwelling groups (four lateral plate series, broad naked snout, filamentous upper caudal ray), it differs from sand-dwelling congeners by displaying an abdominal plating pattern typical of rock-dwelling groups. This raises hypotheses about the origin and functional role of ventral plates in Rineloricaria and highlights conservation needs for low-order sandy habitats.
["Armoured catfishes"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A new species of Aristotelia Hübner (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae, Aristoteliinae) from northern Chile
Aristotelia Hübner, [1825] (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae, Aristoteliinae) is a widely distributed moth genus comprising 153 described species, many of which have striking forewings. The variation in genitalia morphology among some members suggests that, as currently circumscribed, the genus is probably not monophyletic. The only Chilean species of Aristotelia previously described inhabits the central region of the country. A second Chilean representative, Aristotelia aguilensis sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on adults reared from larvae collected on Hoffmannseggia minor (Phil.) Ulibarri (Fabaceae) in the Atacama Desert. The genetic divergence between DNA barcode sequences of the new species was 0.3% (K2P), while it ranged from 11% to 17.1% for other members of the genus. This study reveals a new piece of the Aristotelia puzzle, adds a new member to the poorly known gelechiid fauna of northern Chile, and highlights the need to continue fieldwork to reveal the moth diversity that remains overlooked in underexplored Neotropical environments.
["Atacama Desert"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

A new species of the genus Karschia Walter, 1889 (Solifugae, Karschiidae) from China
A new species of the genus Karschia Walter, 1889, Karschia (Karschia) baii sp. nov., is described from northwest China. We provide a detailed morphological description, diagnostic features, and illustrations for the new species, and present its known distribution in China. Additionally, the first photographs of wild mating for the family Karschiidae are presented.
["Camel spider"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation"]

Scuticeratina: A new subgenus of small carpenter bees (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Xylocopinae) from Indomalaya
Small carpenter bees (Ceratina) are a morphologically diverse group of bees with a cosmopolitan distribution. The ~370 species of this group have been further classified in 25 different recognized subgenera. Here, a distinct new subgenus from Indomalaya, Scuticeratina subgen. nov., with two new species, Ceratina ferruginea sp. nov. and Ceratina phukhaensis sp. nov., are described. Two described species of previously uncertain subgeneric status, C. muscatella Nurse, 1902 stat. rev. and C. splendida Shiokawa, 2008 stat. rev. are also included within Scuticeratina. The monophyly of this group is supported by both morphological characters and molecular data, including phylogenetic analyses based on targeted genes and ultraconserved elements. Additionally, a third new species is tentatively placed in the nominate subgenus Ceratina Latreille, 1802, C. sirikitae sp. nov., distinct from other known species of this subgenus with unusual red abdominal coloration. Finally, an updated key to the Ceratina subgenera of the eastern hemisphere incorporating the new subgenus is provided.
["Ceratina"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Neobythites nanhaiensis sp. nov. (Ophidiidae, Ophidiiformes) from the South China Sea, with morphology, mitogenome, and its phylogenetic position
Neobythites nanhaiensis sp. nov., a new cusk eel species from the South China Sea, is described based on 14 specimens collected at a depth of 400 m near Nan’an Reef. This species is readily distinguished from all congeners by the unique presence of two (rarely three) distinct black ocelli on the mid-flank, a trait absent in all other Neobythites species. It further lacks stripes, fin ocelli, or dark fin margins. The meristic features include dorsal-fin rays 107 (90–115), anal-fin rays 93 (80–94), pectoral-fin rays 25 (21–27), total vertebrae 62 (58–64), and 9–11 developed gill rakers. The complete mitochondrial genome (17,287 bp) was sequenced, exhibiting the typical vertebrate structure with an A+T bias of 55.1%. Phylogenetic analyses based on both the COI gene and the complete mitogenome robustly supported N. nanhaiensis sp. nov. as a distinct monophyletic lineage, sister to N. marginatus in the mitogenome phylogeny. This integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphology, meristics, otolith morphology, and mitogenomic data, confirms the establishment of this new species, which lies outside any existing species group within the genus due to its unique flank ocelli.
["Mitochondrial genome"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Reproductive biology and impacts on aquatic species", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

A new spiny frog of the genus Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) from the eastern slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes
A new species of rain frog from the upper montane forest of the eastern Andes in the upper Pastaza watershed, Ecuador is described. Pristimantis fergusoni sp. nov. is characterized by its short snout, conical tubercles on upper eyelids and heels, combined with a scarlet colored belly in females. These unique traits differentiate the new species among other Pristimantis of upper montane eastern Ecuadorian Andes. Phylogenetic analyses support its validity and place it within a clade nested with other tuberculated species occurring along the Andean slopes. Pristimantis fergusoni sp. nov. is currently known from only two close localities (Cerro Candelaria and Chamana Reserves) at elevations between 2972 and 3200 m elevation, within the Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor. Data Deficient IUCN status is proposed until new information is available. Individuals were observed at night perched on vegetation in herbaceous and arbustive vegetation of upper montane forest. This discovery contributes to a growing body of evidence identifying the upper Pastaza valley as a hotspot of amphibian endemism and diversification. With this addition, 30 strabomantid species are described for this region in the last decades, underscoring its conservation importance. This discovery highlights the urgent need for integrated taxonomic efforts combining fieldwork, morphology, and molecular data to resolve complex evolutionary relationships within the megadiverse genus Pristimantis, especially in underexplored high-elevation habitats of the tropical Andes. Finally, we provide an updated phylogeny for this clade that clarifies its evolutionary relationships.
["Amphibia"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

A new hygropetric genus of Heptageniidae from southern China (Insecta, Ephemeroptera)
A small waterfall in Yunnan Province, China, was sampled for heptageniid nymphs and an unknown species was found, which is characterised by having expanded femora and short tibiae, tarsi, and lamellae of gills I. Furthermore, the reared male imagos have longer hindtarsi than tibiae and almost totally fused penes. Based on these key characters and the hygropetric particularity of the new species, a new genus is established in the subfamily Ecdyonurinae. Molecular and morphological evidence demonstrate Brachypodus quadratus gen. et sp. nov. is closely related to Thalerosphyrus and Atopopus. Two modified keys to common Oriental genera in the subfamily Ecdyonurinae are also provided.
["Adaptation"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

A new loach species of the genus Paranemachilus (Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae) from Guangxi, China
A new species of Paranemachilus, Paranemachilus nonggangensis sp. nov. is described from the Zuojiang river basin, a tributary of the Pearl River system. The new species can be differentiated from other members of the genus by morphological characters and molecular evidence. In morphology, the new species can be distinguished from other congeneric species by having scaled cheeks, the postcleithrum present, 12 or 13 branched pectoral fin rays, six branched pelvic fin rays, 11–15+3 infraorbital canal pores, and 6–10 supraorbital canal pores. A Bayesian inference phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial Cyt b gene strongly supports the validity of P. nonggangensis sp. nov.; the uncorrected p-distance is 5.18–7.67%.
["Cryptic species"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

First records of the genus Parazygiella Wunderlich, 2004 (Araneae, Araneidae) from China, with the description of two new species
The genus Parazygiella Wunderlich, 2004 is recorded from China for the first time, with two new species described here from Xizang: Parazygiella jianxini Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀) and P. yanghongae Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀). Additionally, two species, P. hiramatsui (Tanikawa, 2017), comb. nov. and P. nearctica (Gertsch, 1964), comb. nov. are transferred from Zygiella F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1902.
["Arachnida"]

Two new species of Polleniidae (Diptera) from China
Morinia zhenhang Fu, Xue & Cui, sp. nov. (振航墨粉蝇) collected from Beijing, China, and Pollenia yuensis Fu, Xue & Cui, sp. nov. (豫粉蝇) collected from Henan Province and Beijing, China, are described and illustrated. Keys to the Chinese males of the genus Morinia and to the Chinese species of the genus Pollenia are provided. Digital illustration techniques were used to depict the habitus, frontal head views, and terminalia of the two species. The type specimens are preserved in the Insect Museum of Henan Institute of Science and Technology and the Shanghai Entomological Museum, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
["Cluster flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Glaphyrus festivus Ménétriés, 1836 and related species in Turkey and Armenia (Coleoptera, Glaphyridae)
The identity of Glaphyrus festivus Ménétriés, 1836, is evaluated in the Turkish and Armenian populations. Two new species, G. neglectus Ghrejan, Kalashian & Sabatinelli, sp. nov. from Armenia and eastern Turkey, and G. ciliciensis Ghrejan, Kalashian & Sabatinelli, sp. nov. from southern Turkey, are described and illustrated. A lectotype for G. festivus Ménétriés, 1836, is designated.
["Asia Minor"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

On the genus Sericopimpla Kriechbaumer, 1895 (Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) in the Afrotropics, with the description of a new species
Sericopimpla Kriechbaumer, 1895 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) is a moderately large Darwin wasp genus distributed mostly in the Paleotropics and Australasian region. Here, we describe a new Afrotropical species of the genus, S. kibalensis sp. nov., and provide notes on the intraspecific variation of the other known Afrotropical species: S. sericata (Kriechbaumer, 1895). We record the genus for the first time from Uganda, based on specimens collected with Malaise traps in Kibale National Park.
["Africa"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Morphological and molecular identification of symphylans (Myriapoda, Symphyla) from Colombian pineapple crops, with descriptions of two new species
Symphylans are soil-dwelling arthropods that can cause significant damage to agricultural crops, particularly pineapple. Despite their economic importance, their taxonomy and biodiversity remain poorly understood in Colombia, and the Neotropics. Here the symphylan species associated with pineapple crops were investigated in Santander, Colombia, the country’s largest pineapple-producing region. Symphylans were sampled from four commercial pineapple fields using baited pitfall traps. Morphological examination and DNA barcoding of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene were used to identify the collected specimens. Six symphylan morphospecies were identified, including four Hanseniella and two Symphylella. The molecular analysis revealed four distinct genetic clades within the sequenced specimens. The integration of morphological and molecular data resolved initial taxonomic uncertainties, indicating that some previously separated morphospecies represent intraspecific morphological variation. Our results conclude that Hanseniella cf. unguiculata is the predominant species in pineapple crops, accounting for 95.9% of records. Additionally, two new species are described: Hanseniella chocoita sp. nov. and Hanseniella lebrijana sp. nov. A revised dichotomous key for the identification for Hanseniella species present in South America is also provided. This study provides valuable insights into the symphylan species inhabiting Colombian pineapple crops and emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand their diversity and evolutionary relationships.
["Cytochrome oxidase I (COI)"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Revision of the comose flame moths of the genus Sosxetra Walker (Noctuidae, Dyopsinae), with descriptions of a new genus and three new species
As part of our Neotropical Dyopsinae Project, a revision of the Neotropical genus Sosxetra Walker is proposed. Morphological and molecular evidence challenge its previous monotypic classification. The genus is redescribed and a neotype is designated for Sosxetra grata Walker, previously considered the only species in the genus. Two new species are described: Sosxetra mamanina Martinez, Homziak, & Castillo-Argaez, sp. nov. and Sosxetra thutakanay Martinez, Homziak, & Castillo-Argaez, sp. nov. Finally, Covellana Martinez, Homziak, Plotkin & Castillo-Argaez, gen. nov., is established based on Covellana niomalan Martinez, Homziak, Plotkin & Castillo-Argaez, sp. nov., previously misidentified as Sosxetra grata.
["Barcoding"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

Two new Margarinotus Marseul, 1853 from Jiangxi, Guangxi, and Guangdong provinces (China), with an updated key to all Chinese species (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Histerinae, Histerini)
Two new species of Margarinotus Marseul, 1854 from southern China are described herein: Margarinotus (Grammostethus) mazuri sp. nov. and Margarinotus (Ptomister) deficiens sp. nov. Subgeneric placement of new taxa is only tentative, pending the phylogeny of the taxon. Almost all specimens were collected using flight interception or pitfall traps. The species Margarinotus (Grammostethus) arrosor (Bickhardt, 1920), comb. nov. and Margarinotus (Grammostethus) birmanus Lundgren, 1992 are herein re-described and figured. Margarinotus arrosor (Bickhardt, 1920) is transferred into subgenus Grammostethus Lewis, 1906 based on the structure of the aedeagus. The taxonomic status of the subgenus Grammostethus Lewis, 1906 is briefly discussed, and an updated key to all Chinese species is given. Lectotype and paralectotypes of Hister gentilis Lewis, 1891 (= Margarinotus (Grammostethus) birmanus)) are designated.
["Coleoptera"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Resolving a century-old year mystery – the identity and provenance of the semiterrestrial crab, Parathelphusa (Liothelphusa) nobilii Colosi, 1920 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Gecarcinucidae) from Sarawak and a replacement name for Parathelphusa nobilii Ng, 2014
The uncertain taxonomic identity and provenance of the gecarcinucid karst crab Parathelphusa (Liothelphusa) nobilii Colosi, 1920 is resolved through the examination of historical type material and newly collected specimens. Stygothelphusa nobilii (Colosi, 1920) is confirmed as a distinct species closely related to S. bidiensis Lanchester, 1900, but it can be easily distinguished by its more quadrate carapace, the anterolateral margin being armed with a low epibranchial tooth, proportionally shorter ambulatory legs, and diagnostic gonopod morphology. The originally stated type locality, “Mt Saribau” is considered erroneous. Evidence from the collector’s records and recent collections indicate that the species was very likely obtained from the limestone karsts around Gua Chupak in southwestern Sarawak. In addition, Parathelphusa nobilii Ng, 2014 from Sambas in Indonesian Kalimantan is identified a junior primary homonym of Parathelphusa (Liothelphusa) nobilii Colosi, 1920. A replacement name, P. daisyae nom. nov., is therefore proposed.
["Borneo"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Parasitoidism of Dermaptera by Braconidae (Hymenoptera) confirmed
Orionis coxator (Belokobylskij, 1995) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Euphorinae: Perilitini) was reared from an individual of Apterygida tuberculosa Shiraki, 1928 (Dermaptera: Forficulidae) in Taiwan. This represents a new record of O. coxator and the genus Orionis Shaw, 1987 from Taiwan, as well as the first confirmed case of a hymenopteran species as a primary parasitoid of a dermapteran. The male of O. coxator is redescribed and illustrated, and its diagnostic characters are discussed. Published records of parasitoidism of Ichneumonoidea and other Hymenoptera in Dermaptera and other Polyneoptera are briefly reviewed, and some biological aspects of parasitoidism of braconids in A. tuberculosa and other species of Dermaptera in Taiwan are discussed.
["Bionomics"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Hemiphyllodactylus Bleeker, 1860 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Son La Province, Vietnam
An integrative analysis revealed a new species of the Hemiphyllodactylus typus group collected from local house walls and surrounding karst formations in Pa Kha 1 Village, Long Phieng Commune, Son La Province, northwestern Vietnam. Hemiphyllodactylus pakhaensis sp. nov. is recovered within Clade 4 of the typus group, exhibiting an uncorrected pairwise distance greater than 6.65% from all other congeners based on a 1,043 base pair segment of the ND2 gene. It can be distinguished from its congeners by body size, chin scales, circumnasal scales, dorsal and ventral scales. A multiple factor analysis using normalized morphometric, meristic, and categorical character types recovered its unique, non–overlapping placement in morphospace as statistically significantly different from closely related species in the Clade 4. The discovery and description of this new Hemiphyllodactylus species represent the first record of the Clade 4 from Vietnam and increase the number of species of this genus recorded in the country to 12.
["Gecko"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Two new species of glyptosternine catfish of the genus Sineuchiloglanis (Teleostei, Siluriformes, Sisoridae) from the upper Yangtze River drainage, China
Two new species of the genus Sineuchiloglanis are described from two tributaries of the upper Yangtze River, China. These two new species can be distinguished from all congeners by morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analysis. Sineuchiloglanis chishuiensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by the combination of the following characters: eye enlarged, with diameter 6.8–9.1% of head length (HL); interorbital width 24.1–24.8% of HL; maxillary barbel length 67.1–84.4% of HL; caudal-peduncle depth 27.1–40.3% of caudal-peduncle length; dorsal-fin rays i, 51/2; anal-fin rays i, 41/2; caudal-fin rays i, 7+8, i; gill opening extending to the base of second to third pectoral-fin elements; tip of nasal barbel not reaching anterior orbital margin; pelvic-fin tip reaching or extending beyond anus; and the abdomen slightly convex in profile. Sineuchiloglanis baishuiensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by the combination of the following characters: head depth 42–48.4% of HL; maxillary barbel length 65.9–82.1% of HL; caudal-peduncle depth 25.9–40.6% of caudal-peduncle length; dorsal-fin rays i, 51/2; anal-fin rays i, 41/2; caudal-fin rays i, 7+8, i; gill opening extending to the base of the fourth to fifth pectoral-fin elements; tip of maxillary barbel not reaching the lower corner of the gill opening; tip of nasal barbel not reaching anterior orbital margin; and the abdomen flattened in profile. Molecular phylogenetic analysis inferred from mitochondrial Cytb gene sequences supported the validity of these two new species.
["Baishui River"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Two new species of Caloptilia (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) from New Caledonia inducing galls on Glochidion billardierei (Phyllanthaceae) and redescription of C. xanthopharella (Meyrick, 1880)
New Caledonia is a biodiversity hotspot with high levels of micro-endemism, yet its gracillariid fauna remains poorly documented. Here, two new species of Caloptilia Hübner, 1825 (Gracillariidae) are described from Glochidion J.R.Forst. & G.Forst. (Phyllanthaceae) host plants in Parc des Grandes Fougères, New Caledonia: Caloptilia augeas Guiguet, Lopez-Vaamonde, van Nieukerken & Ohshima, sp. nov., and Caloptilia ceryneia Guiguet, Lopez-Vaamonde, van Nieukerken & Ohshima, sp. nov. Both species induce leaf galls on Glochidion billardierei Baill., co-occurring on the same host species, sometimes even on the same leaf. They exhibit distinct wing patterns, but very similar male and female genitalia, and DNA barcoding supports their status as separate species. These findings provide evidence for potential within-host sympatric speciation, as documented in other gall-inducing insects. The larval biology of C. augeas and C. ceryneia reveals a unique frass disposal behaviour, whereby waste is excreted through a hole and the aperture is subsequently sealed—an adaptation not previously reported in gall-inducing Lepidoptera. Our findings double the known number of gall-inducing species in Gracillariidae, highlighting that this life history strategy may be more common than currently appreciated. We also provide new information on distribution and host plants of Caloptilia xanthopharella (Meyrick, 1880), a leaf roller found on the same host plant, G. billardierei. These findings mark the first records of the subfamily Gracillariinae in New Caledonia. This study underscores the underexplored diversity of New Caledonian gracillariids and emphasises the conservation value of Parc des Grandes Fougères. Further surveys in the Indo-Pacific region may reveal additional yet undescribed Caloptilia species associated with Phyllanthaceae and help clarify the evolutionary mechanisms underpinning their diversification.
["Australia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Research on scale insects"]

New and little-known bees of the genus Colletes Latreille, 1802 (Hymenoptera, Colletidae) from the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan, with descriptions of two new species
Data on 14 species of the genus Colletes Latreille, 1802 collected in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan in 2018–2025 are provided. Among them, Colletes perplexus sp. nov. is described as new to science. Colletes caskanus (Strand, 1919), C. glaber Warncke, 1978 and C. idoneus Cockerell, 1922 are newly recorded from Azerbaijan and ten species are newly recorded from the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. Now 43 species of Colletes are known from Azerbaijan. As a result of its first discovery in Azerbaijan, the intraspecific variation of the variable C. glaber was examined through its range and the new species C. quadratus Kuhlmann, sp. nov. from southeastern Turkey is described.
["Anthophila"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Hemiphyllodactylus ziegleri sp. nov. (Squamata, Gekkonidae), a new karst-dwelling gecko species from Son La Province, Vietnam
Based on morphological and molecular analyses, a new species of Hemiphyllodactylus is described from Son La Province, northern Vietnam. Hemiphyllodactylus ziegleri sp. nov. differs from its sister taxon, a paraphyletic H. yunnanensis, and other members of the genus Hemiphyllodactylus by at least 14% in terms of genetic divergence based on a fragment of the ND2 mitochondrial gene and a combination of the following morphological characters: SVL of adult males 38.7–41.9 mm and adult females 47.0–49.3 mm; dorsal scale rows 21–27; ventral scale rows 12–16; chin scales bordering mental and first infralabial distinctly enlarged; digital lamellae formula 3444 (forefoot) and 4555/4 (hindfoot); femoral pores absent; precloacal pores 21–23 in males, absent in females; cloacal spur single, present in both sexes; dorsal trunk pattern yellowish grey; body with a discontinuous light dorsolateral stripe. Our discovery increases the number of species within the genus to 73.
["Copia Nature Reserve"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

The microendemic Aegla expansa (Aeglidae) survives in highly disturbed micro-basins of southern Chile
Aegla expansa was described from an exoskeleton by Jara (1992). The type specimen (holotype) of the species was obtained from the hamlet of La Leonera, approximately six km east of the town of Hualqui in the Biobío region of Chile. Since this find, no further biological information has been generated on this species, and it was even thought to have become Extinct in the Wild. By systematic sampling in the commune (district) of Hualqui, we were able to find populations of A. expansa in many of the district’s rivers. In this work, we present the first biological information on the species and assess its phylogenetic position within the genus Aegla.
["Aegla"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Taxonomic revision of the freshwater mussel subtribe Cristariina (Bivalvia, Unionidae) in China: description of a new species and new synonyms
Although the subtribe Cristariina in China has been recently revised, taxonomic problems remain. This paper addresses these by describing a new species, Cristaria liboi Chen, Xiang, He & Guo, sp. nov., from Mianyang City, Sichuan Province, based on integrated morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Furthermore, we propose that Cristaria beirensis Y.-Y. Liu & W.-Z. Zhang, 1982 should be regarded as a junior synonym of Cristaria plicata (Leach, 1814), and that Anemina arcaeformis (Heude, 1877) is a junior synonym of Anemina harlandi (Baird & H. Adams, 1867), comb. nov.
["Molluscs"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

First record of silk-loving genus Monteithophila (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Plokiophilidae) from Asia, with description of a new species from China
The silk-loving bug Monteithophila hainanensis sp. nov. (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Plokiophilidae) is described from Hainan, southern China, where it was found on the webs of Spinathele sp. (Araneae, Macrothelidae). This new species represents the first record of the genus Monteithophila Schuh, Štys & Cassis, 2015 outside Oceania. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by its smaller body size, head uniformly colored yellowish brown to reddish brown, fore major claws slightly longer than mid ones with no significant difference, and distinct morphology of corial glands on the hemelytra. A key to the species of Monteithophila is presented. In addition, the ecological characteristics of the new species and the morphology of the genitalia are briefly discussed.
["Heissophilinae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Research on scale insects"]

From yellow deserts to white mountains: confirmed occurrence and genetic affiliation of Psammophis schokari (Forskål, 1775) (Serpentes, Psammophiidae) in Lebanon
The ecological and biogeographic limits of arid-adapted reptiles in the Eastern Mediterranean remain poorly understood. Here, we document the first confirmed occurrence and genetic affiliation of the desert racer, Psammophis schokari (Forskål, 1775), in Lebanon, representing the northern limit of its confirmed distribution in the western Levant, where its presence has long remained uncertain. Seventeen records from 11 localities (17–1,148 m a.s.l.) reveal that the species occupies a wide ecological gradient encompassing lowland agricultural areas, semi-arid foothills, and even seasonally snow-covered sites. Mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences place the Lebanese populations within the widespread “Middle Eastern lineage”, yet their haplotypes show a closer affinity to those from North Africa than to currently sampled populations from the southern Levant. This pattern is consistent with historical Afro–Levantine connectivity and suggests that Lebanon may have been reached during one or more Pleistocene dispersal/colonization episodes from northern Africa. The frequent occurrence of individuals in non-desert habitats and even during winter months demonstrates a high degree of ecological flexibility and tolerance to cooler Mediterranean conditions. Our results thus highlight the ability of P. schokari to persist and expand beyond typical desert environments and thereby shedding light on the northern biogeographic limits of arid-adapted snakes in the Middle East. This study fills a significant distributional gap for the genus Psammophis in the Levant and underscores the need for broader sampling to clarify the species’ past colonization routes and evolutionary history across the region.
["Colonizations"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Synopsis of the myrmecophilous genus Ecitonides Wasmann (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae), with description of two new species from Brazil
The Neotropical genus of myrmecophilous beetles, Ecitonides Wasmann, 1894 (Staphylinidae: Paederinae: Lathrobiini), currently includes nine valid species distributed in French Guiana, Suriname, Brazil, Peru, Paraguay, and Argentina. Members of this genus are notable for the tuberculate ornamentation on the head, thorax, and abdomen. Although little is known about the biology of these beetles, there are records of association with different species of army ants (Labidus Jurine, 1807 and Nomamyrmex Borgmeier, 1936). In this study, a detailed comparative morphological study of all available species for study was conducted, descriptions of two new species, Ecitonides colossus sp. nov. and Ecitonides splendidus sp. nov., are provided, and lectotypes for Ecitonides brevicornis Wasmann, 1900 and Ecitonides spectabilis Borgmeier, 1932 are designated. Diagnoses, illustrations, and photographs are given; an identification key is provided for all 11 species as well as new geographic distribution data. The aim of this study is to provide morphological data that will serve as a tool for a future investigation of the phylogenetic position of the genus and facilitate species recognition through diagnostic morphological characters and an identification key.
["Army ants"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A new isopod species of the genus Edotia (Valvifera, Idoteidae) from Argentina, with a key to South American species
A new valviferan isopod—Edotia dotiae sp. nov.— is described from the shallow coastal waters of Argentine Patagonia. The specimens were collected during three different expeditions in the Chubut and Santa Cruz provinces and in the Beagle Channel. The new species is distinguished from other Edotia species by the presence of two dorsal lobes on the head, a distally protruding pleotelson and uropods with elongated endopods reaching the tip of the pleotelson. In addition, it displays discrete patches of fluted tubercles on its dorsal and lateral body surface. These structures are described in detail based on SEM images. An identification key for Edotia species from South America is presented.
["Argentina"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Balitora tiandengensis (Teleostei, Balitoridae), a new species of cave-dwelling loach from Guangxi, China
Balitora tiandengensis (Teleostei, Balitoridae), a new species collected from a karst cave at Dukang Town, Tiandeng County, Guangxi, China is described and illustrated on the basis of morphological and molecular evidence. Phylogenetic trees reconstructed based on 70 sequences of two mitochondrial (COI and Cyt b) and three nuclear genes (RAG1, IRBP, and EGR2B) show that the new species represents an independent evolutionary lineage. Morphologically, Balitora tiandengensis Nong & Wei, sp. nov. can be distinguished from the other species currently assigned to the genus Balitora by its dorsal fin iii-9, anal fin i-6, pectoral fin v-12, and caudal-fin 19 branched rays. The lips exhibit no complex folding or thickening, maintaining a relatively thin and simple structure. Upper and lower lips connected at corner of mouth, upper lip with a row of inconspicuous papillae, and lower lip thin. Dorsal fin long, 16.7–19.4% of standard length (SL), anal fin short, 15.0–16.7% of SL, distal margin truncated, origin close to the anus and far from the caudal-fin base, pectoral fin 18.4–20.5% of SL, pelvic fin moderately developed, distal margin rounded, 15.1–16.7% of SL. Anus 72.5%–73.3% distance from posterior end of the pelvic fin base to the anal fin origin. The new species will help to define the new distribution of the genus Balitora in Guangxi, China.
["Karst cave"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Systematic position of the enigmatic Mirlatia arcuata moth resolved: a monotypic tribe within the basal branches of Larentiinae (Lepidoptera, Geometridae)
Recently, a new monotypic geometrid moth genus and species, Mirlatia arcuata Hausmann, László, Mayr & Huemer, 2023, were described from Croatia. The description was based on a single male collected in 1983, and a single female collected in 1982. The discovery of an isolated lineage in Europe was unexpected because the Geometridae fauna of the continent is likely the best explored in the world. Upon description, the systematic position of Mirlatia arcuata remained unresolved due to its peculiar morphology and lack of suitable molecular data to study its phylogenetic position. Based on a new specimen collected in 2024, we studied its phylogeny, including it in a maximum likelihood multi-gene global phylogenetic dataset of 1206 taxa, and comparative morphological analysis. Based on the results of our integrative approach, we propose to classify this enigmatic species in a monotypic tribe Mirlatiini Sihvonen & Hausmann, tribe nov. within the basal Larentiinae as the sister to Brabirodini. Other proposed taxonomic changes include reclassification of Brabira Moore, 1888 in Brabirodini and Tyloptera Christoph, 1881 in Larentiinae: incertae sedis. We illustrate closely related genera in Mirlatiini, Brabirodini and Dyspteridini, for taxonomic clarity.
["Classification"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new lineage of looper moths discovered in the South African Cape Floristic Region (Lepidoptera, Geometridae)
The Cape Floristic Region (CFR) of South Africa is globally recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and endemism, but despite extensive floral studies, its phytophagous insect fauna remains poorly studied. Here, we employ an integrative taxonomic approach including macro- and micro-photography, micro-CT scanning, scanning electron microscopy, and multigene molecular phylogenetics to describe a recently discovered, morphologically and genetically distinct lineage of geometrid moths (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) from the CFR, comprising a new genus, Fynbosia Englund, Staude & Sihvonen, gen. nov. and two new species, F. horingaria Englund, Staude & Sihvonen, sp. nov. and F. unicaria Englund, Staude & Sihvonen, sp. nov. Morphological and molecular evidence support the placement of Fynbosia gen. nov. within the subfamily Larentiinae but suggest no close affiliation to any described tribe. The new genus appears to be endemic to the CFR’s montane fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types, which may act as ecological islands that foster speciation. The discovery underscores the overlooked insect diversity of the region and the urgent need for more comprehensive surveys. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of geometrid diversity and highlight the value of integrative taxonomy and non-destructive imaging in documenting rare and cryptic lineages.
["Biogeography"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

Revisiting Nesaulax Roman (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Braconinae), with description of a new species from China
The genus Nesaulax Roman, 1914 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Braconinae) is reported from China for the first time, and a new species (Nesaulax protuberator Li & van Achterberg, sp. nov.) is described and illustrated. Our pairwise genetic results indicated that four Nesaulax specimens from Thailand, Malaysia, and India in the BOLD system are conspecific with our newly described species. In addition, we report a new synonym: Nesaulax gracilis (Enderlein, 1920) syn. nov. of N. pravivena (Enderlein, 1920). A key to the species of the genus Nesaulax is provided for the first time.
["Aphrastobraconini"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new mites of Armascirus Den Heyer, 1978 (Trombidiformes, Cunaxidae) from Chinese fauna
In this study, two new species, Armascirus kuandianensis Chen & Jin, sp. nov. and A. stellatus Chen & Jin, sp. nov. are described and illustrated based on females. Additionally, a key to adult females of Armascirus species of China is provided.
["Cunaxinae"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Integrative revision of the Palaearctic owlfly genus Deleproctophylla Lefèbvre (Neuroptera, Myrmeleontidae, Ascalaphinae)
The ascalaphid genus Deleproctophylla Lefèbvre is a characteristic element of insects from dry, warm grasslands across the Palaearctic, currently comprising five described species distributed in northern Africa, southern Europe, and western Asia. As with other colorful owlfly genera, species of Deleproctophylla have traditionally been differentiated based on wing pattern, a trait prone to high variability and misidentification. The genus currently includes five species: D. australis (Fabricius), D. variegata (Klug), D. dusmeti (Navás), D. gelini Navás, and D. bleusei Kimmins; however, the taxonomic identity of some populations, particularly from Anatolia, has remained uncertain. Even western European species have been affected by taxonomic confusion, as exemplified by D. bleusei, whose presence in southern Spain was only recently detected. A comprehensive revision of all species in the genus demonstrated that the shape of the male ectoproct is the most reliable diagnostic character for species identification. This study also led to the discovery of two new species, D. dandizenor Badano, Zheng, U. Aspöck & Dobosz, sp. nov. from Afghanistan and Pakistan, and D. tengri Zheng, Badano, H. Aspöck & Liu, sp. nov. from Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and China, significantly expanding the known range of the genus. Morphological findings were further supported by species delimitation analyses of COI sequences, which helped identify specimens with atypical pigmentation patterns and confirmed the validity of both European species and the newly described D. tengri sp. nov.
["Ascalaphinae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Complete mitochondrial genome of Echinorhynchus gadi (Acanthocephala, Echinorhynchida) and its phylogenetic implications
The Echinorhynchidae has a long research history, but its mitochondrial genome evolution remains poorly understood, hindering phylogenetic resolution. In this study, we report the first complete mitochondrial genome of the genus Echinorhynchus, obtained from its type species, Echinorhynchus gadi. The circular mitogenome was 17,696 bp in length and contained 39 genes: 12 protein-coding genes (lacking atp8), two ribosomal RNA genes, and 25 transfer RNA genes, including two extra copies of trnW and one extra copy of trnV. Five non-coding regions were identified; the major non-coding region contained tandem repeats and pseudogene fragments, consistent with a tandem duplication and random loss mechanism. Phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated amino acid sequences of the 12 protein-coding genes placed E. gadi and E. truttae in a well-supported monophyletic clade representing the genus Echinorhynchus. This clade was sister to Aspersentis megarhynchus, supporting a close relationship between Echinorhynchidae and Heteracanthocephalidae. Because the published E. truttae mitogenome is incomplete, this study fills a critical genomic gap and provides a valuable molecular resource for future taxonomic, systematic, and evolutionary studies of Acanthocephala.
["Acanthocephala"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

A taxonomic review of Boreus (Mecoptera, Boreidae) with descriptions of two new Alaskan species
Boreus (Mecoptera, Boreidae) species are reviewed. Two new Alaskan species are described (Boreus tananaensis Kane, sp. nov., Boreus timaryi Kane, sp. nov.), a previously synonymized species is resurrected (Boreus gracilis Carpenter, 1935, stat. res.), and morphological descriptions are provided for all five Alaskan species. A key to male and female Alaskan Boreus species is provided. An estimate of the mitochondrial gene tree, based on COI DNA barcodes, is used to infer relationships, and morphological species are tested using five molecular species delimitation methods. What is known about the subgeneric classification of Boreus, and how Alaskan species are classified, is discussed. A checklist of all 33 currently valid species of the family Boreidae is provided.
["DNA barcoding"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Systematic revision and biogeography of the endemic Lucanus kanoi species complex (Coleoptera, Lucanidae) from Taiwan, with the description of a new subspecies
In this study, the taxonomic status of the Lucanus kanoi species complex is examined through a comprehensive systematic revision, and the phylogenetic relationships among its constituent taxa are investigated. Three taxa are analyzed: L. kanoi, L. piceus, and L. ogakii. Although closely related, the results support the recognition of each as a distinct species-level taxon. Specifically, L. piceus stat. nov. is elevated to full species status, rather than being treated as a subspecies of L. kanoi. Furthermore, a new subspecies, L. kanoi kavulunganus subsp. nov., is described based on consistent morphological, biogeographical, and molecular evidence.
["Biogeography"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Revealing European cave shrimp diversity: a new species of Spelaeocaris (Decapoda, Atyidae) named through public participation
The family Atyidae, the world’s largest family of freshwater shrimps, is represented in Europe almost exclusively by subterranean species. The Dinaric Karst of the northwestern Balkans is among the most species-rich regions for atyids, hosting two genera, Troglocaris and Spelaeocaris. Recent speleobiological surveys in the southern Dinaric Karst of Bosnia and Herzegovina revealed a new cave shrimp species, described here as Spelaeocaris electa Jugovic & Zakšek, sp. nov. based on specimens collected during several field campaigns during 2013 and 2021. The epithet “electa” was chosen by a public vote, with the aim of involving local communities in the species naming process and raising awareness of subterranean biodiversity. Phylogenetic analyses, including species of the three European subterranean atyid genera (Spelaeocaris, Troglocaris and Xiphocaridinella) revealed its close relationship with S. hercegovinensis. Morphologically, S. electa Jugovic & Zakšek, sp. nov. is characterized by a weakly bilobed distal end of the telson, which is slightly concave in the centre, by a long rostrum, and the interchange of long and short spines on the appendix masculina. The discovery of S. electa Jugovic & Zakšek, sp. nov. highlights the exceptional subterranean biodiversity and high endemism of the Dinaric Karst, and emphasizes the need for continued taxonomic research and strengthened conservation efforts in this area.
["Cave fauna"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

New species in the Elachista praelineata species group (Lepidoptera, Elachistidae, Elachistinae) from East Africa, with identification keys to the Afrotropical species
Four new species, Elachista silfverbergi sp. nov. from Ethiopia and Kenya, E. griseifrons sp. nov. from Ethiopia, E. levis sp. nov. from Tanzania, and E. conica sp. nov. from Ethiopia are described. The habitus and genitalia are diagnosed and illustrated in detail. Identification keys to the Afrotropical species of the E. praelineata species group, based on male and female genitalia, are provided.
["Checklist"]

A new species of Leptobrachella Smith, 1925 (Anura, Megophryidae) from the coastal forest of Dak Lak Province, Vietnam
A new species of Leptobrachella is described from the coastal forest of Deo Ca Mountain in Dak Lak Province, Vietnam, based on morphological differences and genetic divergences in 16S rRNA mitochondrial gene sequences. The new species is distinguished from other species of the genus Leptobrachella by body size, dorsal skin texture, absence of ventrolateral and femoral glands, absence of lateral fringes on fingers and toes, color pattern of head and body, and iris color. The new species is divergent from other congeners by at least 6.34% uncorrected genetic distance (16S rRNA gene). Leptobrachella deocaensis sp. nov. is genetically closest to L. macrops from Vietnam, with strong nodal support from both BI and ML analyses (1.00/98).
["Asian Leaf-litter toads"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Phylogeny of the Harnischia generic complex (Diptera, Chironomidae) inferred from twenty whole mitogenomes
This study presents the first comprehensive mitochondrial genome analysis of three Chironomidae genera, including sequencing, assembling, and annotating mitogenomes from two Paracladopelma species, one Parachironomus species and one Harnischia species. These newly characterized mitogenomes were subjected to comparative genomic analysis alongside twenty previously published Chironomidae mitogenomes, enabling robust phylogenetic reconstruction within the Harnischia generic complex. The Ka/Ks ratio analysis reveals that most protein-coding genes (PCGs) have undergone purifying selection, with ND6, ATP8, and ND5 exhibiting higher ω values and thus greater evolutionary flexibility. Phylogenetic analyses using Bayesian inference and Maximum likelihood methods demonstrate Robackia as a basal group. This study expands the available mitogenomic database and provides a robust foundation for future phylogenetic analyses of the Harnischia generic complex.
["Chironominae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Species of the genus Laureola (Isopoda, Armadillidae), with an identification key to world species
The genus Laureola Barnard, 1960 comprises twelve species distributed across the Afrotropical, Australian, and Oriental regions. In this study, we describe Laureola volamuca Zong, Wang, Jiang & Li, sp. nov., the second species of the genus recorded in China, which was collected from Hainan Island. The habitus of the adult and male appendages of the new species are illustrated. An identification key to the world species of the genus is provided.
["Armadillidae"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

The genus Ussurohelcon Belokobylskij (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Helconinae) in Vietnam, with descriptions of six new species
The genus Ussurohelcon Belokobylskij is recorded for the first time from Vietnam with six new species described and fully illustrated: Ussurohelcon hatinh Long, sp. nov., U. hagiang Long, sp. nov., U. mellicentralis Long, sp. nov., U. mocchau Long & van Achterberg, sp. nov., U. similis Long, sp. nov. and U. tuyenquang Long, sp. nov. Comparative morphological characters of Ussurohelcon species are discussed and a key to Oriental species is also provided.
["Cenocoeliinae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Geosesarma wongi sp. nov., a distinctive new species of semiterrestrial crab from Tapah Hills in Perak, Peninsular Malaysia; with notes on G. peraccae (Nobili, 1903) and G. cataracta Ng, 1986 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Sesarmidae)
A new species of semiterrestrial freshwater crab is described from Tapah Hills in Peninsular Malaysia. Geosesarma wongi sp. nov. is the 13th member of the genus reported from the country and is most similar to G. peraccae (Nobili, 1903) and G. cataracta Ng, 1986, but easily separated by its distinct carapace features and structures of the adult male chela and male first gonopod. The types of G. peraccae are figured for the first time. Geosesarma cataracta is also figured in detail, and the type series is shown to be mixed.
["Comparative taxonomy"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Sphenomorphus tamchucensis sp. nov. (Squamata, Scincidae), a new skink from Vietnam
A new skink species, Sphenomorphus tamchucensis sp. nov., is described from Ninh Binh Province, northern Vietnam, based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species can be distinguished from other Sphenomorphus species by a combination of the following characteristics: size medium (maximal SVL 41.5 mm); primary temporals two; external ear opening without lobules; loreals two; supralabials seven; infralabials six; nuchals absent; midbody scales in 28 rows; dorsal scales smooth, in six rows across the back; paravertebral scales 58–63, not widened; ventral scales in 55–61 rows; 8–10 smooth lamellae beneath finger IV and 13–15 beneath toe IV; toes not reaching to fingers when limbs adpressed along body; dorsal surface of body and tail bronze brown with many tiny dark dots and a discontinuous dark vertebral stripe, from middle of neck to tail base; a black stripe, in two scales wide, running from nostril to eye and extending from posterior margin of eye along upper part of flank to middle of tail. In phylogenetic analyses, the new species is recovered as an independent lineage with no clear sister taxon and at least 17.85% genetic divergence from other congeners based on a fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

A new species of the Amynthas corticis group with support from mitogenomic data and a new record of Metaphire agrestis (Goto & Hatai, 1899) (Oligochaeta, Megascolecidae) in northeastern China
As part of a series of investigations on earthworm diversity conducted in northeastern China in recent years, a new species, Amynthas dandongensis Han & Zhao, sp. nov., has been discovered. It belongs to the A. corticis species group characterized by having four pairs of spermathecal pores in segments 5/6/7/8/9. The new species mainly differs from the other members of the A. corticis species group by its relatively small body size and the absence of male pores and genital markings in both the spermathecal and male pore regions. The interspecific pairwise COI genetic distances between A. dandongensis Han & Zhao, sp. nov. and the other closely related species ranged from 15% to 22%. Phylogenetic analyses using mitogenomic coding genes further explored the relationships within the A. corticis species group, clarifying the position of A. dandongensis Han & Zhao, sp. nov. in the group. Additionally, a new record of a cosmopolitan earthworm, Metaphire agrestis (= Amynthas agrestis) (Goto & Hatai, 1899) has been investigated in China. New sequences from specimens collected in northeastern China were analyzed together with “M. agrestis” and “A. agrestis” sequences available from GenBank to further explore phylogeographic relationship. The dataset of all M. agrestis sequences showed intraspecific genetic distances of 0–1%, consistent with the observed morphological similarities. Haplotype network analyses also revealed no genetic isolation among different populations of M. agrestis (= A. agrestis). Moreover, re-examination of previous descriptions and illustrations of the male pores of agrestis indicates that this species should be assigned to the genus Metaphire Sims & Easton, 1872, rather than Amynthas Kinberg, 1867.
["Earthworm"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species and record of Xestochironomus Sublette & Wirth, 1972 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from the Dominican Republic, with males and females associated by DNA barcode
We describe a new species of Xestochironomus Sublette & Wirth, 1972 and provide notes on X. luteifurcatus Sublette & Wirth, 1972 from the Dominican Republic. The adult male and female of Xestochironomus digitulus sp. nov. are also described and illustrated. The male and female of X. luteifurcatus are redescribed. Males of the new species can be easily distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: the abdomen of both sexes bears cross bands; the anal point is long, slender; the male gonostylus has a slightly bifurcated apex; and there is a thumb-like lobe at the apex of the gonostylus.
["Aquatic insects"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A revision of Chrysso O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1882 sensu lato (Araneae, Theridiidae)
A revision of Chrysso O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1882 sensu lato is presented based on specimens collected from China. A new genus, Megama gen. nov., is established, based on Meg. decimaculata sp. nov. (male, female) from Hubei, China as the type species, with an additional species Meg. bimaculata (Yoshida, 1998), comb. nov. Two new species of Meotipa Simon, 1895, Meo. cordata sp. nov. and Meo. vittiforma sp. nov., are described, and four new combinations are proposed. The genus Physcoa Thorell, 1895, stat. rev. is revalidated, with its type species P. scintillans Thorell, 1895, comb. rev., along with seven new combinations. All the new combinations proposed in the current paper are transferred from the genus Chrysso. Diagnoses for the four genera are provided, along with diagnoses, descriptions, and photos of the new species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

A new genus of Orthopsyllidae Huys, 1990 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from the Pacific Ocean
This study reports the discovery of four new benthic harpacticoids from Korean waters in the Pacific Ocean. The harpacticoids were collected using SCUBA or a grab sampler and sorted using a stereomicroscope for both molecular and morphological analysis. The study employed standard DNA sequencing methods (COI and 18S rRNA) and detailed morphological characterization through microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. As a result, three new species belonging to the family Orthopsyllidae and classified as a new genus were discovered. Although the new genus lacks brush setae on leg 1, a diagnostic feature of Orthopsyllidae, it shares similarities with other orthopsyllids in characters such as the large thorn-like process on the antennule, leg 5, and sexual dimorphism. This finding necessitates an expanded diagnosis of Orthopsyllidae to reflect the characters of the new genus based on the three new species. In addition, a new species belonging to the genus Orthopsyllus was discovered. This study is the first to describe a new species of Orthopsyllus from Korea, where the genus has not been previously reported at the species level. This study provides a key for classifying genera and species within the Orthopsyllidae family.
["Crustacea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

First country record of Metopiellus Raffray, 1908 (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Metopiasini) from Ecuador, with description of two new species
Two new species from the genus Metopiellus Raffray, 1908 (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Metopiasini) are described from both sides of the Ecuadorian Andes: Metopiellus palamaku sp. nov. from the Amazon in eastern Ecuador and Metopiellus chasqui sp. nov. from montane cloud forest in western Ecuador. These findings represent the first country record of the genus.
["Ant-like litter beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Forest-dwelling crab-eating foxes, Cerdocyon thous (Carnivora, Canidae), in eastern Ecuador: new ecological and genetic records of an elusive Neotropical canid
The crab-eating fox, Cerdocyon thous, is the most broadly distributed native canid in South America, occupying a wide range of ecosystems from open savannas to dense tropical forests from Venezuela to Argentina. Its geographical range is expanding towards the Pacific coast of Central America by crossing the Darien rainforest. In Ecuador, its presence has been poorly documented and remains ecologically ambiguous. In this study, we confirm the presence of C. thous in north-eastern Ecuador based on two roadkill specimens collected in Sucumbíos Province and two independent photographic records from Yasuni National Park, which were obtained through systematic camera-trapping. Stomach-content analysis revealed a predominantly insectivorous and opportunistic diet which includes insects, arachnids, reptiles, and amphibians. In addition, an ectoparasite analysis found parasitism by the introduced cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus, highlighting potential risks of pathogen transmission between domestic animals and wildlife. Mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences from form a well-supported distinct haplotype from other South American lineages, suggesting that forest-dwelling foxes in eastern Ecuador may represent a separate evolutionary unit with unique ecological adaptations to rainforest environments. These findings underscore the importance of continued monitoring of C. thous in the Amazon, particularly in the context of road expansion, habitat alteration, and increasing interactions with domestic animals such as domestic dogs. Our results have implications for taxonomic assessment, ecological understanding, and conservation planning of this widespread, yet understudied, Neotropical canid in Ecuador.
["Amazon rainforest"]
["Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Three new Cerodontha species from Inner Mongolia and Qinghai with a checklist of thirty-two Chinese species (Diptera, Agromyzidae)
Three species, Cerodontha (Dizygomyza) flavilunulata sp. nov., C. (D.) granditerga sp. nov., C. (D.) tumefacta sp. nov., are new to science, and four species, C. (Cerodontha) flavicornis (Egger, 1862), C. (D.) labradorensis Spencer, 1969, C. (Poemyza) beigerae Nowakowski, 1972, and C. (P.) muscina (Meigen, 1830), are recorded from China for the first time. A key and a checklist with photographs of morphological features and male genitalia are presented.
["Agromyzidae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Review of the genus Xanthephialtes Cameron (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae), with re-definition of the genus and description of a new species from Uganda
Xanthephialtes Cameron, 1906 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) is a small Afrotropical Darwin wasp genus with only two previously known species, for which we provide images of the holotypes. Here, we describe a new species of the genus, X. iida sp. nov., which is also the first record of the genus in Uganda. We provide a re-definition of the genus and a key to species along with notes on the morphological variation and mimicry of X. schoutedeni Benoit, 1954. Online Lucid identification keys and images of all the species treated herein are available at http://www.waspweb.org.
["Africa"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Taxonomic insights into the diversity of Cloeon Leach, 1815 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) in Thailand
Four species of the genus Cloeon have previously been reported in Thailand: C. bicolor Kimmins, 1947, C. bimaculatum Eaton, 1885, C. harveyi (Kimmins, 1947) and C. marginale Hagen, 1858. However, since 1961, no systematic studies or investigations of this genus have been conducted in that country. This study reviews Cloeon Leach, 1815 in Thailand and investigates five species—C. bengalense, C. bicolor, C. harveyi, C. rubellum, and C. viridulum—based on morphological, molecular, and taxonomic analyses. Three species (C. bengalense, C. rubellum, and C. viridulum) are recorded for the first time in Thailand, and C. rubellum is described for the first time as a mature nymph and adult female. Additionally, the egg chorionic surface of all five species is described for the first time, and its use is demonstrated for species identification in Thailand. A key to the species of Cloeon in Thailand is provided based on the egg structure, mature nymph, and adult female and male.
["Chorionic surface"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Phylogenetic analysis of the genus Semioscopis (Lepidoptera, Depressariidae), with description of a new species from China
This study describes Semioscopis sinicella Wang, Zhu & Xiao, sp. nov. of the genus Semioscopis Hübner, 1825 (Lepidoptera, Depressariidae) from China. The new species is similar in external morphology and male genitalia to the European S. avellanella (Hübner, 1793) and the Japanese S. similis Saito, 1989, but it can be distinguished in female genitalia mainly by the distinctly shorter sclerotised section of the ductus bursae and the length ratios of the ductus bursae and corpus bursae to the papillae anales. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of the new species are provided. Furthermore, a phylogenetic analysis based on COI gene sequences using IQ-tree supports S. sinicella sp. nov. as a monophyletic lineage and further divides the genus Semioscopis into seven species groups.
["Dabie Mountains"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Paragomphus alami sp. nov. (Odonata, Gomphidae): a new dragonfly species described from the White Nile River, Sudan
Sudan’s unique biogeographic position at the Afrotropical-Palearctic interface, coupled with the ecological gradient of the Nile River, fosters a diverse odonate fauna. Despite this, the genus Paragomphus Cowley, 1934 remains understudied in the region. This study describes Paragomphus alami sp. nov., a new species of Paragomphus from the White Nile floodplain in Sudan, based on integrated morphological and molecular evidence. Field surveys conducted between 2017 and 2022 documented adult populations across the Sudanese floodplains. Specimens were morphologically analysed using microscopy compared to congeners P. lacustris Karsch, 1890 and P. elpidius Ris, 1921. DNA barcoding (COI gene) was performed on two specimens, with maximum-likelihood phylogenetic reconstruction using 28 sequences of Paragomphus and related species in addition to an outgroup. Mean interspecific genetic distance was computed manually. Morphological comparisons with congeners revealed unique diagnostic traits in P. alami sp. nov., including short, thick cerci ending with a black tooth, and an epiproct that is noticeably shorter than those of P. lacustris and P. elpidius. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that P. alami forms a well-supported monophyletic clade (bootstrap value = 100%), which is corroborated by morphological evidence, and no observed intraspecific variation, which supports the recognition of this species as distinct; this was further supported by the mean interspecific distance of 12.34%. This discovery highlights Sudan’s role as a biogeographic crossroads and the need for further research of Odonata in the region. Habitat sensitivity highlights conservation urgency. The species seasonal emergence, habitat specificity, and sensitivity to deforestation underscore its conservation importance.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new species of Cheironitis van Lansberge, 1875 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Onitini) and the first record of Cheironitis moeris (Pallas, 1787) from China
A new species Cheironitis van Lansberge, 1875 (Cheironitis aiweiae sp. nov.), is described from Shiren Gou, Urumqi, in the XinJiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. Cheironitis moeris (Pallas, 1787) is also reported from this region. These two original observations complement the composition of Cheironitis species in China and further expand our knowledge of their distribution.
["Asia"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Five new species of the trapdoor spider genus Latouchia Pocock, 1901 (Araneae, Halonoproctidae) from China
Five new species of the trapdoor spider genus Latouchia Pocock, 1901 are described from southern China based on both morphological and molecular evidence: L. jihe sp. nov. (♂♀), L. wufeng sp. nov. (♂♀), L. wuhan sp. nov. (♂♀), L. yinggen sp. nov. (♂♀), and L. zhangping sp. nov. (♂♀). The male and female of L. jinyun Hao, Yu & Zhang, 2025 are also redescribed from specimens collected in Nanchong City, Sichuan Province, China, located over 100 km from the type locality in Chongqing Municipality. Species delimitation is supported by genetic distance analyses of the mitochondrial DNA barcode gene (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, COI), comparing the five new species with five previously described taxa. GenBank accession codes for the five new species and L. jinyun are provided to facilitate future identification and taxonomic research.

Asian species of the little-known subgenus Lagria (Lagriella) (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Lagriinae), with a new species and the first record from China
The little-known subgenus Lagria (Lagriella) Borchmann, 1916 is characterized by pronounced sexual dimorphism, notably manifested in apterous females. In this paper, the Asian species of Lagria (Lagriella) are reviewed, including three known species, Lagria (Lagriella) bimarginata Fairmaire, 1896, L. (Lagriella) andrewesi Borchmann, 1916, L. (Lagriella) mima Borchmann, 1916, and the newly described L. (Lagriella) cordata sp. nov. from Guangxi, Guizhou, Hong Kong, Hunan, China. The new species represents the first record of the subgenus in China. Lectotypes are designated for L. (Lagriella) andrewesi and L. (Lagriella) mima. Habitus images, key diagnostic characters, ecological habitats of the new species, and type habitus of three known Asian species are documented. An identification key to the four Asian species is also provided.
["First record"]

Mesochra vietnamica sp. nov. (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Canthocamptidae), the first record of the genus from Vietnam, with a key to Asian species
A new species of the genus Mesochra Boeck, 1865 was collected from mangrove habitats at the estuary of the Vu Gia–Thu Bon river system, central Vietnam. Mesochra vietnamica sp. nov. is morphologically close to M. oligochaeta Kornev & Chertoprud, 2008, but differs in i) the position of the inner seta on P1 Enp-1, ii) the length/width ratio of P1 Enp-1, iii) the number of elements on the antennary exopod, and iv) the number of setae on P2 Enp-2. The new species belongs to the group of congeners with P1 Enp-1 longer than the entire exopod. A key to the Asian species of Mesochra is provided.
["Mangrove"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Two new species of terrestrial microsnails of the genus Hypselostoma W.H. Benson, 1856 (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Hypselostomatidae) from northeastern Thailand
Two new species of hypselostomatid land microsnails, Hypselostoma pongrati Tanmuangpak & S. Tumpeesuwan, sp. nov. from Nong Bua Lamphu Province and H. sichomphuense Tanmuangpak & S. Tumpeesuwan, sp. nov. from Khon Kaen Province, are described based on the morphology of their shell, radula, and genital system. Both new species are very similar in shell shape to H. phupaman from Chaiyaphum Province, possessing a double-keeled last whorl. However, H. pongrati Tanmuangpak & S. Tumpeesuwan, sp. nov. is distinguished by the absence of apertural barriers, whereas H. sichomphuense Tanmuangpak & S. Tumpeesuwan, sp. nov. possesses three apertural barriers, and H. phupaman possesses six or seven. The three species were found on isolated limestone hills in the Chaiyaphum-Khon Kaen-Nong Bua Lamphu-Loei area.
["Apertural barriers"]

Mazama tschudii (Wagner, 1855), forgotten by science, re-emerges as a new genetic lineage of Neotropical deer with a proposed neotype (Artiodactyla, Cervidae)
The accurate classification of Neotropical deer is essential for effective conservation strategies; however, many species within the genus Mazama remain taxonomically unresolved due to morphological similarities and historical uncertainties. Mazama tschudii, originally described from the western Andes of Peru, has been debated due to the absence of a designated type specimen and its resemblance to other brocket species. This study integrates morphological, cytogenetic, and molecular data to clarify its taxonomic status, designate a neotype, and highlight its significance for conservation. A recently collected specimen from La Ramada, Lambayeque, Peru, matched the original description of Wagner (1855), exhibiting a smaller size, darker pelage, and distinct cranial features compared to closely related species such as Mazama americana, M. temama, and gray brockets (Subulo gouazoubira, Passalites nemorivagus). Cytogenetic analysis revealed a diploid number of 2n = 42 and a fundamental number (FN) of 68, with extensive chromosomal rearrangements that distinguish it from other Mazama species and suggest reproductive isolation. Mitogenome analysis placed M. tschudii as a sister species to M. temama, yet distinct from M. americana. Despite this close molecular relationship with M. temama, chromosomal divergence and BAC-FISH results demonstrated independent evolutionary trajectories, with ten centric and four tandem fusions differentiating their karyotypes. These results provide robust chromosomal and genomic evidence to validate M. tschudii as a distinct species under the biological species concept. The formal neotype designation from its historical type locality establishes a definitive taxonomic reference, contributing critical insights into the evolutionary complexity of Neotropical deer and reinforcing the importance of integrative taxonomy in shaping conservation priorities.
["Brocket deer"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

A new species of Melinnopsis (Annelida, Melinnidae) from the Porcupine Abyssal Plain, northeast Atlantic
A new species of polychaete worm, Melinnopsis nathanieli sp. nov. (Annelida, Melinnidae), is described from the Porcupine Abyssal Plain in the northeast Atlantic at ~4850 m depth. Forty-two specimens were collected during RRS James Cook cruises JC247 and JC263 in 2023 and 2024 respectively. The new species is morphologically similar to Melinnopsis gardelli and Melinnopsis chadwicki, described from deep Australian waters, but differs from these species in having fewer (~ 16) abdominal uncini in a row compared with 30 in both M. gardelli and M. chadwicki. Phylogenetic relationships among the new species and other species in the family Melinnidae were assessed using the nuclear 18S, and the mitochondrial 16S and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene fragments. The new species is genetically distinct from all other species of Melinnopsis, where molecular data is available, and genetically most similar to M. gardelli (pairwise distance 3.5%). Tubes of M. nathanieli sp. nov. were observed to act as a biogenic substrate for Actiniaria and Ascidiacea. Seafloor images of Melinnopsis nathanieli sp. inc. at the Porcupine Abyssal Plain show the worm’s tube positioned perpendicular to the sediment surface, and the long buccal tentacle protruding from the tube. A table containing key characters of all known Melinnopsis species is presented. This is the first species of Melinnopsis to be described from the northeast Atlantic.
["Atlantic Ocean"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Heterocypris exodonta sp. nov. (Ostracoda, Cyprididae), morphological and molecular description of a high altitude asexual microcrustacean from the Nam Co region, Southern Tibetan Plateau
A new ostracod species, Heterocypris exodonta Bonilla-Flores & Karanovic, sp. nov. is described from a high-altitude temporary pond near Nam Co, Southern Tibetan Plateau. Detailed morphological analyses of valves, soft body, and the partial mitochondrial COI (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) sequence distinguish this species from its close congeners, Heterocypris incongruens and Heterocypris salina. Key taxonomic features include the morphology of the female genital lobe and the structure of the internal opening of normal pores, particularly variations in the female genital aperture at the intersection of the seminal duct and the oviduct. Pore openings in H. exodonta Bonilla-Flores & Karanovic, sp. nov. and H. incongruens exhibit a turbine shape, while in H. salina they display a simple aperture. Phylogenetic analysis based on the COI dataset supports the new species description and suggests potential synonymy and cryptic species within the H. salina and H. incongruens complexes. Ecologically, these species mainly inhabit temporary water bodies with high oxygen levels and likely follow an r-type ecological strategy, being opportunistic in colonizing new habitats, reproducing via parthenogenesis, and undergoing rapid population growth. This study enhances the understanding of Southern Tibetan Plateau ostracod biodiversity, providing crucial morphological and molecular data for species identification, particularly for parthenogenetic species lacking standard male morphological characters. Additionally, this research offers methods to prevent misidentifications and misinterpretations in (paleo-)ecological studies, contributing significantly to the broader knowledge of taxonomy and ecology of ostracods from the Southern Tibetan Plateau. Due to the high morphological plasticity of Heterocypris incongruens, our findings highlight the need for caution when identifying similar species, as external resemblance may conceal genetic divergence.
["Asexual reproduction"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

New crane fly species of the subgenus Tipula (Vestiplex) Bezzi (Diptera, Tipulidae) from Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Four new crane fly species of the subgenus Tipula (Vestiplex) Bezzi, 1924, T. (V.) apteroides sp. nov. (Yunnan), T. (V.) bidentata sp. nov. (Sichuan), T. (V.) spinaventralis sp. nov. (Sichuan) and T. (V.) ventrobasilata sp. nov. (Sichuan) are described and illustrated, providing discussion on separation of the newly described species from other closely related species. The male genitalia of T. (V.) aestiva Savchenko, 1960 is illustrated and redescribed.
["Distribution"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Two new species of the Drawida japonica species complex (Oligochaeta, Moniligastridae) from East Asia delimited by integrative taxonomic methods
The Drawida japonica (Michaelsen, 1892) species complex is a cosmopolitan earthworm group that is widely distributed throughout Asia, and has a high degree of diversity. Nonetheless, the species composition of this species complex remains ambiguous due to limited taxonomic investigation. An integrative taxonomic approach, incorporating both morphological and molecular datasets, is herein applied to elucidate the D. japonica species complex across East Asia, with the objective of delimiting putative new species. External and internal morphological characters were examined for taxonomic identification. For molecular phylogenetic analysis, one mitochondrial marker, the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), and three nuclear loci, namely 28S rRNA (28S), A-kinase anchor protein 17A (AKAP17), and flavin adenine dinucleotide synthetase 1 (FLAD1) were used. Species delimitation was performed using three complementary methodological frameworks: Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP), the Generalized Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC) phylogenetic approach, and Bayesian Phylogenetics and Phylogeography (BPP). Congruent species boundaries were recovered across all analyses, with the single exception of the GMYC model applied to the mitochondrial COI data set. Furthermore, the interspecific K2P genetic distance exceeded 15%. This study has delimited two new species, namely D. henanensis sp. nov. and D. sinensis sp. nov. The two new species represent the first additions to the species complex in the past decade, thereby significantly contributing to our understanding of Drawida earthworm diversity in Asia.
["Earthworm"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Two new species of the genus Thereuopoda Verhoeff, 1904 (Scutigeromorpha, Scutigeridae) from Sichuan and Hainan Provinces, China
Scutigeromorph centipedes are morphologically distinctive myriapods that have historically received limited scientific attention, particularly in China. The taxonomy of the genus Thereuopoda Verhoeff, 1904 has remained largely unresolved since the late 1970s, and recent molecular evidence has indicated the presence of cryptic species within this group. In this study, we describe two new species, T. kaijiangensis sp. nov. Ji, Shen & Zhang from Kaijiang County, Dazhou City, Sichuan Province, China, and T. edgecombei sp. nov. Ji, Liu & Zhang from Chengmai County, Hainan Province, China. Comprehensive morphological descriptions and detailed illustrations are provided for both species, along with an updated diagnostic key to all currently recognized Thereuopoda species in China. Phylogenetic analyses conducted using both maximum-likelihood and Bayesian-inference methods consistently support the monophyly of the genus Thereuopoda and further validate the taxonomic distinctness of the two newly described species.
["Centipede"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A genus-level classification of the ant subfamily Ponerinae (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The genus-level classification of the ant subfamily Ponerinae (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is revised based on a comprehensive phylogenomic analysis of more than 2,300 ultraconserved element (UCE) loci across 1,170 sampled specimens representing 1,020 taxa (600 valid species and 420 morphospecies) and all described ponerine genera known from workers. While most previously defined genus groups are recovered as monophyletic, several genera are shown to be polyphyletic or paraphyletic. To resolve these inconsistencies, four new genera are described: Boltonopone gen. nov., Makebapone gen. nov., Subiridopone gen. nov., and Sritoponera gen. nov. Xiphopelta stat. rev. is revalidated and Euponera is restricted by expanding Fisheropone to absorb a paraphyletic assemblage. Mesoponera is split into four lineages, resulting in transfers to Makebapone, Subiridopone, and Xiphopelta. Iroponera syn. nov. is synonymized under Cryptopone and additional new synonymies at both the generic and species levels are established. Morphological diagnoses are revised for each affected genus, and updated species lists and new combinations are provided. The updated classification recognizes 54 valid genera within Ponerinae and acknowledges an additional lineage that will be formally described in a subsequent publication. To support identification and comparative studies, revised keys to all extant Ponerinae genera are provided, presented by biogeographic region (African and Malagasy, Palearctic–Indomalaya–Australasia, and New World). This classification is intended to provide a stable, phylogenetically informed framework for future research on ponerine ants.
["Ants"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

The species of the genus Zaitzevia Champion, 1923 (Coleoptera, Elmidae) from Shaanxi Province, China
A synopsis of the species of the genus Zaitzevia Champion, 1923 from Shaanxi Province (China) is provided. Five new species are described: Z. coronifer sp. nov., Z. disparilis sp. nov., Z. hybrida sp. nov., Z. pilosa sp. nov., and Z. robusta sp. nov. These five new species are not confined to Shaanxi but recorded also from other provinces: Z. coronifer (Hubei), Z. disparilis (Anhui, Gansu, Guizhou, Hunan), Z. hybrida (Gansu, Sichuan, Yunnan), Z. pilosa (Hubei, Hunan), and Z. robusta (Hubei, Sichuan). A key to the six Zaitzevia species currently known from Shaanxi, as well as photographs of the habitus and the aedeagi, are provided. The morphological delimitation of the genera Zaitzevia and Zaitzeviaria Nomura, 1959 is briefly discussed on the basis of the newly established Zaitzevia hybrida species group, which is wide-spread in the Himalaya and China and combines diagnostic characters of Zaitzevia as well as Zaitzeviaria. In addition, an updated checklist of the 21 species of Zaitzevia now recorded from China is presented. The genus Zaitzevia is recorded for the first time from Anhui, Gansu, and Guizhou. Zaitzevia fengtongzhaiensis Jiang & Chen, 2023 is recorded for the first time from Gansu and Yunnan. Based on particular morphological characters, the specimens recorded by Bian and Zhang (2022) from Shaanxi and Yunnan as Z. chenzhitengi are here regarded as a closely related, undescribed species.

New insights into the Syllis prolifera species complex from the eastern Mediterranean Sea
Reports of cases of cryptic and pseudocryptic speciation have increased in the last decade among marine invertebrates thanks to the use of integrative taxonomy that combines all available data sources to correctly establish species boundaries, now routinely incorporated into classical taxonomical studies. This approach has enhanced our understanding of the real biodiversity of a given area, which has fundamental implications for conservation and management of marine ecosystems. Among polychaete annelids, considered one of the most ubiquitous and abundant groups in our oceans, there are numerous documented cases of cryptic and pseudocryptic speciation, mainly in those highly diverse families as Syllidae Grube, 1850. One of the most recent cases of species complex has been reported in Syllis prolifera Krohn, 1852 – traditionally considered a widespread, cosmopolitan species – and now recognised as a pseudocryptic complex in the western Mediterranean Sea. However, its broader distribution suggests that additional pseudocryptic lineages may exist in other regions of the Mediterranean basin. In this study, newly collected specimens from the Greek islands of Crete and Mykonos are combined with all previously published data on the S. prolifera complex, aiming to assess the existence of additional putative Mediterranean species. Combining morphological, biogeographical, and molecular data (COI, 16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, and 28S rRNA markers) the presence of at least three more novel lineages for the eastern Mediterranean Sea is revealed. However, unlike previous studies, no clear diagnostic morphological characters were found for each lineage, suggesting that the complex includes both pseudocryptic and cryptic potential new species. Our results further reinforce the view that species diversity within the family Syllidae remains underestimated and highlight the necessity of integrative studies to accurately assess marine invertebrate biodiversity.
["Cryptic speciation"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of the Cymbasoma longispinosum species-group (Copepoda, Monstrilloida) from the northern South China Sea
A new monstrilloid copepod species, Cymbasoma stricturum sp. nov., is described and illustrated on the basis of adult females from the Pearl River estuary, northern South China Sea. The new species is closest to C. morii Sekiguchi, 1982, C. sinopense Üstün, Terbiyik & Suárez-Morales, 2014, and C. jinigudira Suárez-Morales & McKinnon, 2016, but it can be distinguished by a combination of characters including strongly protuberant, straight oral papilla; a cephalothorax that is distinctly constricted at the anterior two-fifths in both dorsal and lateral views; and two pairs of well-developed nipple-like processes on anterior dorsal surface, among other diagnostic traits. This is the ninth nominal species known in the Cymbasoma longispinosum species-group. We provide an updated dichotomous key for females and a revised worldwide distribution map of the species-group.
["Copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Reassessment of Leucothyreus noctivagus Ohaus, 1917 reveals Mimogeniates margaridae Martínez, 1964 as new generic and specific synonym (Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae, Geniatini)
In this paper, Mimogeniates margaridae Martínez (Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae, Geniatini) is synonymized with Leucothyreus noctivagus Ohaus (syn. nov.). Hence, the monotypic genus Mimogeniates Martínez is a new junior synonym of Leucothyreus MacLeay (syn. nov.). Leucothyreus noctivagus is redescribed and illustrated based on the type and additional material, including new distributional records in southern Brazil. As a result of our work, the tribe Geniatini now includes 12 genera.
["Bearded scarab beetles"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new species and two new distributional records of Signiphoridae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) from the canopy of the Xishuangbanna Rainforest
Three species of Signiphoridae are recorded from the Xishuangbanna Rainforest (China, Yunnan). Chartocerus menglaensis sp. nov. is described as new to science. Chartocerus niger (Ashmead) and Signiphora flavella Girault are recorded from China for the first time. A key to all Chinese species of Signiphoridae is provided.
["Chartocerus"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Pholcid spiders of the genus Pholcus Walckenaer, 1805 (Araneae, Pholcidae) from eastern Sichuan, China, with descriptions of two new species
The spider genus Pholcus Walckenaer, 1805 exhibits high diversity in eastern Sichuan, China, and 19 species have been recorded in this area so far. In this study, two additional new species of Pholcus from north of the Sichuan Basin are described, Pholcus jiuzhai Yan, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀) from the crypticolens group and Pholcus pingwu Yan, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀) from the yichengicus group. In addition, an updated list of all Pholcus species from eastern Sichuan is provided.

A revision of the genus Miccolamia Bates from China (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Desmiphorini)
The genus Miccolamia Bates, 1884 from China is revised. Sixteen species or subspecies of the genus are recognized (eight previously described and eight new): Miccolamia savioi Gressitt, 1940 from northwestern to eastern China, M. mystica Bi & Lin, sp. nov. from Hubei, M. minuta Bi & Lin, sp. nov. from Anhui, Shanghai, and Zhejiang, M. yanziae Bi & Lin, sp. nov. from Xizang, M. holzschuhi Bi & Chen, sp. nov. from Yunnan, M. tonsilis Holzschuh, 2010 from Gansu, Shaanxi, and Hubei, M. coenosa Holzschuh, 2010 from Shaanxi and Hubei, M. shennong Bi & Chen, sp. nov. from Hubei, M. panda Bi & Chen, sp. nov. from Sichuan, M. dracuncula Gressitt, 1942 from Sichuan, Chongqing, and Hubei, M. d. orientalis Bi & Lin, ssp. nov. from Zhejiang, Anhui, Hunan, and Hubei, M. binodosa Pic, 1935 and M. scintillans Holzschuh, 2010 from Yunnan, M. liubini Bi & Chen, sp. nov. from Hainan, M. tuberculipennis Breuning, 1947 from Fujian, Zhejiang, Hubei, and Jiangxi, and M. castaneoverrucosa Hayashi, 1974 from Taiwan. One new synonym, M. bicristata Pesarini & Sabbadini, 1997 syn. nov. = M. savioi Gressitt, 1940 is proposed. Miccolamia albosetosa Gressitt, 1951 from Taiwan is treated as a taxon of uncertain generic position. Miccolamia minuta Bi & Lin, sp. nov. is considered to be the smallest cerambycid beetle known in China. Miccolamia binodosa Pic, 1935 and M. scintillans Holzschuh, 2010 are newly recorded from China. Illustrations of habitus, major diagnostic features, biological notes, a distributional map as well as an identification key are provided.
["Endophallus"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Additions to the genus Rhyacopsyche Müller, 1879 (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) in Ecuador
Prior to this publication, six species of microcaddisflies in the genus Rhyacopsyche (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae) had been recorded from Ecuador. Herein, we describe five new species: Rhyacopsyche abdita sp. nov., Rhyacopsyche bellavista sp. nov., Rhyacopsyche decouxi sp. nov., Rhyacopsyche patula sp. nov., and Rhyacopsyche tumida sp. nov. Illustrations of male genitalia are provided with each description. This work brings the total number of Rhyacopsyche species in Ecuador to eleven, and the world total to 37.
["Caddisflies"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Waterfalls as a reservoir for caddisfly larvae (Insecta, Trichoptera): exploring a poorly known habitat
Waterfalls have not been thoroughly studied as a habitat for freshwater macroinvertebrates, although they appear to be an exclusive environment for taxa with traits suited to these unique physical habitat conditions. To better understand the role of waterfalls as aquatic habitats in Costa Rica, macroinvertebrates were collected within the flow and spray zones of 38 waterfalls across the country, spanning an altitudinal range of 55 to 2,660 m above sea level, either by climbing up from the base or using rappel techniques from above. Additionally, in 11 of the waterfalls, corresponding river samples were taken to compare the associated assemblages. Caddisfly larvae were found at all waterfalls sampled, with a total of 10,642 individuals collected from 10 families and 24 identified genera. The family Hydroptilidae, with 12 genera, accounted for half of the individuals collected and was present in 37 of the 38 waterfalls. Metrichia (Hydroptilidae) and Calosopsyche (Hydropsychidae) were the most abundant genera, in terms of the highest number of individuals, and were most frequently collected, indicating a strong preference for this habitat. Larvae of Atanatolica (Leptoceridae) and Xiphocentronidae were quite common in spray zones. In contrast, Wormaldia (Philopotamidae), Contulma (Anomalopsychidae), Cerasmatrichia, and Alisotrichia (Hydroptilidae), although uncommon in rivers throughout the country, were also found abundantly in waterfalls, particularly the latter, which were especially abundant in intermittent and karstic waterfalls. Assemblages of Trichoptera in waterfalls were generally similar, with some differences associated with specific site characteristics, such as elevation or rock composition, and chemical factors like conductivity. This research constitutes the first systematic study of caddisfly larvae associated with waterfalls in the Neotropics. The results provide an important baseline for identifying new collection sites of adult caddisflies and for generating associations and descriptions of their larval stages, which may be unknown due to the understudied nature of this habitat.
["Aquatic insects"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The genus Atopsyche (Trichoptera, Hydrobiosidae) in Peru, with the description of seven new species
The caddisfly genus Atopsyche (Trichoptera: Hydrobiosidae) in Peru currently includes 12 species, three of which occur only in Peru. Herein, we describe and illustrate seven new species: A. cedroi sp. nov., A. chemillen sp. nov., A. corcuerai sp. nov., A. huascarani sp. nov., A. refulioae sp. nov., A. sofiae sp. nov., and A. yanachaga sp. nov. We also include illustrations for the species included in the subgenus Dolochorema as a comparison. Finally, one new country record is added, A. tincuracu, and expand the distributional range of five additional species, thus increasing the number of species of Atopsyche from Peru to 20.
["Aquatic insects"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Diversity and distribution of the Trichoptera of Florida, United States, with descriptions of five new species
Based on previously published species accounts and collection records of the authors, a county-level distributional checklist of all 220 caddisfly species documented within Florida is presented, representing 46 genera within 19 families. New state records are provided for four species and five new Integripalpian species are described and illustrated: Protoptila chipolensis Rasmussen & Harris, sp. nov. (Glossosomatidae), Hydroptila aviforma Rasmussen & Harris, sp. nov. (Hydroptilidae), Beraea jennyae Rasmussen & Harris, sp. nov. (Beraeidae), Ceraclea pescadori Rasmussen & Harris, sp. nov. (Leptoceridae), and Oecetis densoni Rasmussen & Harris, sp. nov. (Leptoceridae). The most speciose families within Florida are the Hydroptilidae (77 species), Leptoceridae (54 species), Hydropsychidae (21 species) and Polycentropodidae (18 species). In addition to county-level distributional data, conservation status ranks and ranking recommendations for the newly described species are also provided. The majority of Florida’s caddisfly species are native to the eastern Nearctic, with many endemic (precinctive) to the Southeastern Coastal Plain, including 34 species known only from Florida. Diversity and distributional data are summarized for each family and regional diversity is compared between the panhandle and peninsula. Taxa richness and endemism are higher in the panhandle than in the peninsula. The panhandle contains 213 recorded species with 23 species endemic to the region, compared to the peninsula containing 131 recorded species, with five of those endemic to the peninsula. The higher taxonomic richness and presence of many cool-adapted taxa within the panhandle is likely due the temperate climate, diverse lentic and lotic habitats, and connectedness of river basins that extend north into Alabama and Georgia. The water bodies in counties of the Florida peninsula have a less diverse caddisfly fauna with taxonomic richness generally decreasing north to south along the peninsula, where habitat diversity declines and mean annual temperature increases.
["Aquatic"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Microcaddisflies (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) of the Baja California peninsula, Mexico: checklist and description of two new species
Two new species of Hydroptilidae, Neotrichia baja sp. nov. and Ochrotrichia rivasi sp. nov., are described from the Baja California peninsula, Mexico. New country records for Mexico of four species are provided: Leucotrichia mutica Flint, 1991, Neotrichia kimi Keth, 2015, Neotrichia sepulga Harris, 1991, and Ochrotrichia lucia Denning & Blickle, 1972. In this study, 16 Hydroptilidae species were recorded in the peninsula, and nine were new records for the Baja California and Baja California Sur states. This study represents the first microcaddisfly (Hydroptilidae) diversity assessment of the Baja California peninsula.
["Biodiversity assessment"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A new species of Oecetis McLachlan, 1877 (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae) and new distributional records of Trichoptera in the eastern Amazon
The Amazon is one of the most diverse biomes on Earth, and most of its area is in the territory of Brazil. Even though it harbors most of Earth’s diversity, species remain to be described. Therefore, knowing the biodiversity of the Amazon is of utmost importance, and this must be done quickly because the biome is severely under threaten by deforestation. Currently, the Brazilian Amazon has around 340 caddisfly species records, many endemic. To fill gaps in biodiversity knowledge of the Brazilian Amazon, we describe a new species of Oecetis and expand the known distributions of eight species of caddisflies. Oecetis amplicauda sp. nov. can be distinguished from the other species in the O. testacea group by the cylindrical dorsal portion of tergum X, longer than the preanal appendage, and by the inferior appendage with a distinctly enlarged dorsal lobe with stout setae. Four other species of Trichoptera are recorded for the first time for Brazil: Nectopsyche taleola Flint, 1974, Oecetis inflata Flint, 1974, Polyplectropus alienus Bueno-Soria, 1990, and Polyplectropus flintorum Chamorro & Holzenthal, 2010. Three valid species are recorded for the first time in the state of Pará: Marilia paraguassu Rocha & Souza, 2018, Nectopsyche splendida (Navás, 1917), and Polyplectropus rondoniensis Chamorro & Holzenthal, 2010. These results highlight that some caddisfly taxa still lack thorough studies in critical biomes, such as the Amazon, and that imperative actions towards conserving these areas are necessary.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Workflow designs can facilitate sample management for student-research teams doing taxonomic resource development with Trichoptera
Undergraduate research groups can face challenges in their involvement in multi-year or long-term research projects in maintaining momentum for projects, keeping consistency among student researchers, minimizing errors, and retaining institutional knowledge. Management of a large student group with a wide range of projects requires workflows that streamline sample processing for both multi-year projects and developing localized Trichoptera taxonomic identification resources for a specific study region. This paper presents workflows for undergraduate researchers to facilitate (1) sample sorting and identification of adult caddisflies from 4 years of pan trap samples, and (2) developing taxonomic “species pages” that include species description and illustrations for 300+ species of California caddisflies. For the past ten years, almost 80 undergraduate members of the research team have contributed to museum and ecological studies to gain skills recognizing adult Trichoptera, using keys, and gaining familiarity with taxonomic resources such as species descriptions. Undergraduate researchers participate for 2–3 semesters, learn to collaborate, and develop research skills to identify samples. Research team activities have contributed to a 4-year dataset of monthly adult activity in an intermittent stream that will be used for continuing research questions. Moreover, they have compiled a resource for species-level identifications for California caddisflies.
["Benthic macroinvertebrates"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Micro-habitat use and seasonality of caddisfly larvae (Trichoptera) in two streams in eastern Cuba
Four microhabitats within pools (cobbles, sand, leaf litter, and bank vegetation) and one microhabitat in riffles (cobbles) were sampled in both rainy and dry seasons to identify groups of caddisfly species that share larval microhabitats across 15 sites in streams in eastern Cuba. A total of 4,367 individuals representing 13 families, 22 genera, and 36 taxa (species and morphospecies) were collected. To explore the distribution of caddisfly species by microhabitat, a k-means clustering method was used. This analysis grouped the samples into seven clusters based on species abundance across microhabitats, seasonality, altitude, and stream order. The results show that caddisfly abundance is strongly influenced by microhabitat type, seasonal variation, and river characteristics. Riffles consistently had the highest abundance of caddisflies across all sampling periods. Functional feeding groups showed variable abundance and behavior. Scrapers were strongly influenced by seasonality with high abundance in the rainy season, while generalists showed no significant seasonal effect on abundance. This study provides detailed biological trait information for specific caddisfly species, which is essential for using multimetric indices to accurately determine the health of freshwater ecosystems.
["Assemblage composition"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Lateral and longitudinal dispersal of aquatic insects in mountain streams, with notes about Trichoptera
Understanding the spatial patterns of energy flow from mountain streams via emerging aquatic insects remains limited due to a lack of empirical data. Upon emergence, adult flying insects disperse in both longitudinal (upstream/downstream) and lateral (into terrestrial habitats) directions. Here, we quantified the dispersal patterns of adult aquatic insects in both dimensions using a combination of sticky and Malaise traps. To assess longitudinal dispersal, we deployed sticky traps in transects along three streams, with Petri dish arrays designed to capture insects flying upstream, downstream, or laterally across the channel. Lateral dispersal was measured using the same trap design placed at increasing distances (up to 32–64 m) from the stream edge, complemented by Malaise traps at one site. Trichoptera exhibited the highest family-level richness among captured taxa, and the genus Micrasema showed a clear exponential decay in abundance with distance from the stream, consistent with lateral dispersal theory. Our findings contribute empirical evidence on the spatial extent of aquatic insect emergence and dispersal, informing future studies on stream–riparian energy flow across larger spatial and temporal scales.
["Aquatic subsidy"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Gut microbiome composition of Trichoptera larvae across functional feeding groups: a case study from the Provo River, Utah, USA
Diet is known to be a major factor in the gut microbiome of many groups of insects. Larvae from the insect order Trichoptera have varied feeding behaviors, encompassing all functional feeding groups, making them an excellent group for studying the links between diet and gut microbe community variation. However, no previous study has examined these links in caddisflies. Here, we characterize the gut microbiome composition of four caddisfly genera belonging to four different functional feeding groups over two sampling periods using 16S metabarcoding. We found that the sampling date had the strongest influence on gut microbiome variation. Host functional feeding groups and phylogeny also influenced gut community composition; however, improved sampling is necessary to confirm this relationship. Our preliminary results point to interesting differences among larvae from different feeding groups and suggest future areas for research, including performing species-level identification of the caddisfly larvae, using more taxa within and between functional feeding groups, using temporal and larval stage-matched replicates, assessing the degree of microbiome residency in caddisfly guts, and performing deeper sequencing.
["16S metabarcoding"]
["Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Predicting landscape disturbance using adult Trichoptera: one (caddis) metric to rule them all?
The adult stage of Trichoptera is valuable for assessing the biotic integrity of streams; however, it is not clear which specific metric(s) have the greatest value for doing so. In this study, >500,000 adult caddisfly specimens reflecting 299 species were sampled and identified from 903 stream sites throughout the northcentral United States. Specimen data were compiled into 31 water quality metrics encompassing taxonomic richness, diversity indices, pollution tolerance, percent dominant taxa, and relative abundance of functional feeding groups. Each metric was individually tested for its ability to predict the known percentage of undisturbed habitat upstream of each sampling site using simple linear regression modeling. Most metrics were statistically significant but had R2 values <0.30. The highest performing models were taxonomic richness at the species (R2 = 0.40), genus (0.52), and family (0.59) levels and the Hilsenhoff Biotic Index (HBI) (0.37). The family level of taxonomic resolution produced models with a higher R2 value than genus or species for all four of the metrics where taxonomic resolution was tested. Multiple linear regression models of all 31 metrics (R2 = 0.65) and of combined family richness, HBI, and the ratio of shredders to filtering collectors (0.62) exhibited modest improvements over using family richness exclusively. These results indicated that simple taxonomic richness metrics constitute the most effective predictors of undisturbed upstream habitat when using adult caddisfly data, and that family richness may be the most effective of all due to low stochastic variation and ease of use.
["Biomonitoring"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

New Philopotamidae (Insecta, Trichoptera) from Ecuador: seven new species and updated country checklist
Seven new species in the caddisfly family Philopotamidae are diagnosed, described, and illustrated from Ecuador, three in the subfamily Chimarrinae: Chimarrhodella spinosa sp. nov., Chimarra (Otarrha) buglas sp. nov., Chimarra (Chimarra) buenaventura sp. nov., and four in the subfamily Philopotaminae: Sumacodella grijalvai sp. nov., Wormaldia nilssoni sp. nov., Wormaldia insolita sp. nov., and Wormaldia milpe sp. nov. The species are rare and endemic to the country. In addition, an updated distributional checklist of the 60 species of philopotamids now known from the country is presented. Thirty-eight, or 64%, of these species are endemic. Finally, the Chao 2 estimator, based on 126 localities, suggests that the expected number of philopotamid species is 60 (SD 9), which implies that almost all the species present in the country are known.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Five new species of Cranopygia (Dermaptera, Pygidicranidae) from South China
Five new species of the genus Cranopygia Burr, 1908 are described and illustrated from South China: Cranopygia kongqueshana sp. nov., Cranopygia lisu sp. nov., Cranopygia longibifurcata sp. nov., and Cranopygia shidianensis sp. nov. from Yunnan Province, and Cranopygia liuhuaishana sp. nov. as the first generic provincial record from Guangxi Province. These species are characterized by unique combinations of external morphological and male genital structures. Diagnostic characters, detailed illustrations, and a distribution map of these new species are provided. A provisional key to the Chinese species of Cranopygia is also presented based on male morphology.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Dalodesmid millipedes from alpine and subalpine habitats in New South Wales and Victoria, Australia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Dalodesmidae)
Eleven new species of Dalodesmidae (Diplopoda, Polydesmida) are described: Araneopedis porchi gen. nov. et sp. nov. (type species), A. bogong sp. nov., A. buffalo sp. nov., A. dargo sp. nov., A. gibbae sp. nov.; Cernethia dysmica sp. nov.; Dibologonus sladei gen. nov. et sp. nov. (type species), D. major sp. nov., D. minor sp. nov., D. oedipus sp. nov.; Polydactylogonus sanctogwinear gen. nov. et sp. nov. (type and only species). Males of D. oedipus sp. nov. have modified legpairs 13, 15 or 17, with reduced prefemur, femur and postfemur, and fused, swollen tibia and tarsus. New locality records are presented for the dalodesmids Cernethia inopinata Mesibov, 2015, Lissodesmus milledgei Mesibov, 2006 and Orthorhachis durabilis Mesibov, 2008.
["Litter sampling"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Glaridoglanis verruciloba sp. nov., a new glyptosternine catfish (Siluriformes, Sisoridae) from the Zayul River in southeastern Tibet, China
Glaridoglanis verruciloba sp. nov. is described from the Zayul River in southeastern Tibet, China. It has long been misidentified as G. andersonii. This new species is diagnosed by the following combination of characters: an enlarged lower lip bearing 4–7 verruciform lobes on the central-posterior margin; an anus situated close to the origin of the anal fin; the ventral surface at the base of maxillary barbels densely covered with striae; 11 branched pectoral-fin rays; 5–6 branched anal-fin rays; and relatively short mandibular barbels. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences further supported the validity of this new species, which is within a well-supported clade with substantial genetic divergence from G. andersonii.
["Cytochrome b gene"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A survey of megachilid bees of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan, with description of a new species of Pseudoanthidium Friese, 1898 (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)
A list of 184 species of megachilid bees from 19 genera and five tribes is reported for the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan. The list is based on 2,099 examined specimens identified to 171 species; 13 additional species are known on the base of literature records only. A new species, Pseudoanthidium (Exanthidium) astafurovae Fateryga, Maharramov & Proshchalykin, sp. nov., is described. Anthidium (Anthidium) akanthurum Nadimi & Talebi, 2014, sp. resurr., is recognised as a distinct species, not a synonym of A. (A.) gussakovskiji Mavromoustakis, 1939. Nineteen species are new to Azerbaijan: A. (A.) akanthurum, Chelostoma (Foveosmia) foveolatum (Morawitz, 1868), Coelioxys (Allocoelioxys) argenteus Lepeletier de Saint-Fargeau, 1841, C. (A.) obtusus Pérez, 1884, C. (Coelioxys) quadridentatus (Linnaeus, 1758), Heriades (Michenerella) punctulifera Schletterer, 1889, Hoplitis (Alcidamea) brachypogon (Pérez, 1879), H. (A.) campanularis (Morawitz, 1877), H. (Anthocopa) mocsaryi (Friese, 1895), Megachile (Eutricharaea) anatolica Rebmann, 1968, M. (Megachile) genalis Morawitz, 1880, Metadioxys graeca (Mavromoustakis, 1963), Osmia (Helicosmia) breviata Warncke, 1988, O. (H.) clypearis acuta Warncke, 1988, O. (Osmia) scheherazade Peters, 1978, O. (Tergosmia) rhodoensis (van der Zanden, 1983), Protosmia (Nanosmia) magnicapitis (Stanek, 1969), Pseudoanthidium (Pseudoanthidium) rhombiferum (Friese, 1917), and P. (P.) syriacum Kasparek, 2024. Metadioxys formosus (Morawitz, 1875) and Coelioxys (Allocoelioxys) sogdianus Morawitz, 1875 are excluded from the fauna of Azerbaijan. The number of species of Megachilidae known from Azerbaijan is increased to 196.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Morphometric and bioacoustic profiling of Myotis cf. davidii/aurascens (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in East Asia: evidence for a range extension and elevational record
During a Chiroptera resource survey conducted in 2023 on the Pamir Plateau of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, two adult male bat individuals were captured. External morphology examination revealed small-sized individuals characterized by long, narrow ears with straight tragus structures tapering to sharp tips—features diagnostic of the genus Myotis. Concurrently, we obtained free-flight echolocation calls from the bats: the signals showed an initial frequency of 65.12 ± 2.12 kHz, terminal frequency of 42.78 ± 1.27 kHz, peak energy frequency of 47.41 ± 1.46 kHz, pulse duration of 2.52 ± 0.26 ms, and inter-pulse interval of 94.01 ± 31.41 ms. Based on skull morphological traits and bioacoustic data, the specimens were preliminarily identified as Myotis aurascens. However, our phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cytb) gene revealed that sequences attributed to M. aurascens and M. davidii formed a single strongly supported clade, underscoring the unresolved taxonomic status of these species. Irrespective of the exact species assignment, this discovery constitutes the first documented occurrence of the M. davidii/aurascens complex on the Pamir Plateau, thereby extending the known distribution range in China. Notably, these specimens represent the highest-elevation record for this group to date (3200 m). Our study provides the first comprehensive description of cranial morphology and echolocation signatures for this taxon in a high-altitude habitat. These findings significantly enhance regional biodiversity inventories and offer critical baseline data for plateau ecosystem research.
["Cytb"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

A new species of the bandfish genus Owstonia Tanaka, 1908 (Perciformes, Cepolidae) from Taiwan, northwestern Pacific Ocean, with new records and comments on morphological characters of congeners
The bandfish genus Owstonia Tanaka, 1908 shows high diversity, with many new species described recently by Smith-Vaniz and Johnson (2016). However, not many Taiwanese materials were included, and the diversity remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated specimens deposited in the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, which revealed that those previously reported as O. psilos includes O. doryptera (Fowler, 1934) and a species newly described here; one of three specimens reported as O totomiensis is re-identified as O. cf. aurora. The specimens of O. doryptera represent the first record from Taiwan, as well as the northernmost record of the species. Detailed descriptions of each species are provided, with comments on their morphological variations. Moreover, the diagnostic characters proposed by previous literature are discussed. Lastly, a checklist of the species of Owstonia from Taiwan is provided and discussed. In total, nine species are recognized in waters of Taiwan.
["Actinopterygii"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

A new species of Androctonus from the Najd Plateau of Saudi Arabia (Scorpiones, Buthidae)
A new scorpion species, Androctonus najdensis sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Saudi Arabia. It is compared with existing species from the Middle East and Iran, notably A. crassicauda (Olivier, 1807) and the recently described A. tihamicus Alqahtani, Yağmur & Badry, 2023. Molecular analysis using the COI mitochondrial gene revealed a genetic divergence of 7.0 to 11% between A. najdensis sp. nov. and A. crassicauda sensu lato samples from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Iran. The combination of molecular and morphological data supports the recognition of the Najd populations as a distinct species. Additionally, an identification key for Androctonus species in Iran and the Middle East is provided.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Ion channel regulation and function", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Discovery of a new hydrothermal copepod from the Indian Ocean and proposal of Parabathyesola gen. nov. (Harpacticoida, Laophontidae, Esolinae)
Hydrothermal vent ecosystems are expected to harbor numerous meiobenthic animals; however, few studies have examined the species composition, abundance, and distribution of harpacticoid copepods in deep-sea hydrothermal assemblages. To gain insights into the natural biodiversity of such assemblages, we report a new species, Parabathyesola calida gen. et sp. nov. (subfamily Esolinae, family Laophontidae), from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent in the Onnuri Vent Field located on the Central Indian Ridge. This species can be considered a sister taxon of the monotypic genus Bathyesola Huys & Lee, 2000, sharing six derived character states in the antennules, maxillulary endopod, maxillipedal syncoxa, and thoracic legs in both sexes. However, it differs from Bathyesola in the combination of a female antennule with six segments and the first endopodal segment in the third and fourth legs with an inner seta, justifying the establishment of a new monotypic genus, Parabathyesola gen. nov. Therefore, the subfamily Esolinae now includes 19 species in nine genera. We also provide an amended dichotomous key to the genera of this subfamily.
["Bathyal zone"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Two new species of Hyalonema (Hexactinellida, Amphidiscosida, Hyalonematidae) from the Indo-West Pacific
This study describes two new species collected from deep-sea environments in the Indo-West Pacific. Hyalonema (Cyliconema) dexiangi sp. nov., collected from the Indian Ocean, is characterized by distinctive finger-like protuberances on the body surface, the presence of choanosomal pentactins, the co-occurrence of micropentactins and microhexactins, and the absence of mesamphidiscs. Hyalonema (Cyliconema) subconica sp. nov., sampled from a seamount in the western Pacific Ocean, is distinguished by the presence of pinular diactins, a unique combination of choanosomal spicules (diactins, pentactins, and hexactins), and the presence of basalia bearing two-toothed anchors. In addition to their morphological distinctions, molecular phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rDNA sequences indicate a close genetic relationship between the two species.
["Deep sea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Taxonomy of the genus Elasmopus (Crustacea, Amphipoda) in Japan and South Korea, with description of a new species
To advance the limited understanding of the East Asian Elasmopus fauna, field surveys were conducted in Japan and South Korea. In the present study, a new species, E. lumbiniger sp. nov., is described. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a strongly projected posteroventral corner of the epimeral plate 3, long slender setae on the anterodistal corner of the male gnathopod 2 carpus, a mid-palmar ridge on the male gnathopod 2 propodus, and a smooth posterior margin on the basis of pereopods 5–7. In addition, E. koreanus is recorded in Japan for the first time, and the known distribution range of E. mukuinu has been significantly extended. The nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of these species were determined, and the genetic distances among Elasmopus species were provided. A key to the species of Elasmopus found in East Asia is also provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A comparative study of the external male genitalia in the subfamily Zeugophorinae, and a new species of genus Zeugophora (Coleoptera, Megalopodidae) from China
The external male genitalia of 21 Chinese species of the genus Zeugophora (subfamily Zeugophorinae) are compared. A key is compiled to Chinese Zeugophora species based on external male genitalia with aid of other external morphological traits. One new species, Zeugophora (Pedrillia) liupanshanensis Li & Liang, sp. nov., is described from Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Drepanogynis insciata (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1875), a South African geometrid moth lost to science rediscovered after more than 140 years (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae)
The geometrid moth Drepanogynis insciata (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1875) has been known only from two specimens in the Natural History Museum, London, UK: the holotype male collected before 1875 from South Africa, and a second male specimen without date and collecting locality data but probably collected before 1879. Unexpectedly, 13 specimens of this species—long considered lost to science—were observed in four locations between 2020 and 2023 in the Western Cape, near the type locality of the species. These observations were based on photographs available on iNaturalist, apart from a single male attracted to light, which was collected and vouchered for study from the Western Cape on 28 January 2022. We illustrate D. insciata and the newly collected specimen using both classical dissection and non-destructive micro-CT imaging. Phylogenetic analysis based on the multi-gene maximum-likelihood method places the species within Ennominae, tribe Drepanogynini. DNA barcodes reveal its nearest genetic neighbor to be Drepanogynis smaragdaria Krüger, 2002, with 5.9% sequence divergence. We discuss the conservation implications of this rediscovery.
["DNA barcoding"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

A study on the Melandryidae (Coleoptera) of Mount Leigong, Guizhou Province, Southwest China, with descriptions of three new species and a checklist of Chinese melandryid species
Six melandryid species, including three new species, Phloiotrya similis sp. nov., Melandrya bifasciata sp. nov., and Phloeotrinus elongatus sp. nov., and three new provincial records from Guizhou, Dircaeomorpha elegans Sasaji, 1974, Sallumia davidis Fairmaire, 1889, and Mikadonius gracilis Lewis, 1895, from the Leigongshan National Nature Reserve and neighbouring area (Mount Leigong area) are reported in this article. A checklist of Chinese melandryid species is provided.

Integrative phylogenomic and morphological evidence for Pseudothelogorgiidae fam. nov., with a redescription of Pseudothelogorgia hartogi (Octocorallia, Malacalcyonacea)
The octocoral genus Pseudothelogorgia van Ofwegen, 1994 has presented taxonomic challenges since its original description, with its higher-level placement uncertain and obscured by morphological convergence and lack of molecular data. Here, we integrate detailed morphological examination with phylogenomic analyses of newly collected shallow-water specimens from the Gulf of Oman, alongside a redescription of the type material. Our results recover Pseudothelogorgia as a deeply divergent lineage within Malacalcyonacea, sister to Plexauridae but unrelated to Keroeididae, the family in which it was formerly placed. Distinct morphological characters, together with strong phylogenomic support, warrant the establishment of Pseudothelogorgiidae fam. nov. The shallow-water occurrences documented here extend the known depth range of the genus from mesophotic to shallow reef habitats, indicating ecological plasticity and highlighting the need for targeted exploration of under-surveyed Indian Ocean coral assemblages.
["Arabian Sea"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Shuqiangius gen. nov., a new genus of Oxyopidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from China
A new genus Shuqiangius Wang, Marusik & Yao, gen. nov. is described. It comprises the type species Shuqiangius rarobulbus (Lo, Cheng & Lin, 2024), comb. nov. (♂; Taiwan, China) and a new species Shuqiangius chuan Wang, Marusik & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀; Sichuan, China).
["Aranei"]

Taxonomic revision of two dominant Munidopsis species (Decapoda, Anomura, Munidopsidae) from the cold seeps in the northern South China Sea: new records and complementary descriptions
Munidopsis species represent some of the dominant macrobenthos in cold seep habitats of the northern South China Sea. Earlier studies documented high abundances of M. verrilli Benedict, 1902 at Site F cold seep and M. lauensis Baba & de Saint Laurent, 1992 at Haima cold seep. However, comparative morphological and genetic analysis of additional materials from the deep waters of California, Manus Basin, and southern Okinawa Trough now indicate that those specimens in the South China Sea require taxonomic revision: the specimens at Site F should be M. longispinosa Cubelio, Tsuchida & Watanabe, 2007 and the specimens at Haima cold seep belong to M. ryukyuensis Cubelio, Tsuchida & Watanabe, 2007. Complementary descriptions of M. ryukyuensis, M. longispinosa and M. verrilli, as well as their geographic distributions, are provided to facilitate future identification.
["Chemosynthetic habitat"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Description of two new species of freshwater leeches of the genus Helobdella (Hirudinea, Glossiphoniidae) from Mexico, with a redescription of Helobdella socimulcensis (Caballero, 1931)
Freshwater leeches of the genus Helobdella Blanchard, 1896 (Annelida: Clitellata) are widely distributed in the New World, with most of the species occurring in the neotropics and a single species native to Europe. Species of the genus are characterized by the presence of an eversible proboscis, dorsoventrally flattened body, presence of a single pair of eyespots, and a preference for feeding on the hemolymph of aquatic invertebrates. In this study, two new species of Helobdella are described based on specimens collected in Mexico, Helobdella papilloprocta sp. nov. and Helobdella gulloae sp. nov. These specimens were preliminarily identified as H. socimulcensis (Caballero, 1931), but detailed morphological and molecular analyses confirmed their status as separate species. In addition, a neotype for Helobdella socimulcensis is designated, and a redescription of the species is provided based on specimens from the type locality: Xochimilco, Mexico City, Mexico. Finally, H. austinensis in Nuevo León and H. europaea in Morelos, Mexico are reported for the first time, representing new records for the country. In total, ten species of Helobdella are known from Mexico.
["Freshwater leeches"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

First Solenogastres (Mollusca, Aplacophora) from Puerto Rico: descriptions of two new species and notes on their coral hosts
Solenogastres (Mollusca, Aplacophora) are a unique and understudied group of marine invertebrates of evolutionary and ecological significance. Their diversity remains underestimated due to frequent lack of identification by non-specialists, limited molecular data, and the complexity of their taxonomy. Here we present the first Solenogastres from Puerto Rico, expanding the group’s known geographic distribution in the Caribbean Sea. Using an integrative taxonomic approach, we describe two new species, Dorymenia gummi sp. nov. and Strophomenia boricua sp. nov., and document their associations with coral hosts. These findings offer new insights into the ecology and biodiversity of these elusive mollusks.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new species of the genus Donacia Fabricius (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Donaciinae) from South Korea: morphology, ecology, and COI gene analysis
Donacia koreana sp. nov. is described from South Korea, with detailed descriptions and illustrations of both the adult and larval stages. A key for species identification, distribution map, host plant associations, oviposition behaviors, feeding patterns, and other ecological information, along with partial sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, are also presented.
["Larva"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new species of Pseudodiaptomus (Copepoda, Calanoida, Pseudodiaptomidae) from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
A new species of the demersal calanoid copepod genus Pseudodiaptomus is described from specimens collected from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. This species most closely resembles P. burckhardti in the structure of male fifth leg with reduced endopods on both legs, but differs from the latter in several features, including armatures of male fifth leg, asymmetrical female urosome and posterodorsal projections on the male prosome.
["Copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Evolutionary relationships of Fish Lake Valley Tui Chub Siphateles obesus ssp. (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Leuciscidae) and a new genus of leuciscid minnows from the Alvord Basin, western United States
The Tui Chubs, Siphateles spp., are found widely across the Great Basin and in some adjacent regions. Nearly all diversity of Siphateles has been consolidated under the name S. bicolor and there are numerous isolated populations of Tui Chubs of uncertain taxonomic standing and therefore unclear conservation priority. The Fish Lake Valley Tui Chub (FLVTC) has been recognized informally as S. bicolor ssp. 4 with a limited natural distribution in Fish Lake Valley in southwest Nevada. Considering that a rigorous examination of the phylogenetic relationships of the FLVTC and other Tui Chubs has not been conducted, the FLVTC is placed in a taxonomic framework by first applying a species delimitation method to S. bicolor sensu lato using mitochondrial data and then conducting phylogenetic analyses of genome-wide SNP data. Siphateles bicolor is better characterized by seven species, all with existing names, which here are considered to be valid Siphateles species. Furthermore, the separation of Alvord Basin Siphateles from other Siphateles is apparent as a deeply divergent lineage. As a result, we propose Epizon Campbell & Finger, gen. nov. to contain these fishes. The Fish Lake Valley Tui Chub is found to be the earliest-branching lineage of S. obesus in our SNP data set and are highly differentiated from other S. obesus. These findings are concordant with geologic evidence that indicates that Fish Lake Valley became connected to the broader Lahontan Basin ~2 million years ago, with gene flow possible until ~0.5 million years ago. Based on the geographic distribution and magnitude of genetic divergence, we find the recognition of FLVTC as a subspecies of S. obesus is appropriate.
["ASAP"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Description and life history of a new genus and species of Limacodidae (Lepidoptera, Zygaenoidea) from Taiwan, the first with a monkey-slug-like caterpillar from outside the New World
The genus Yufengus gen. nov. is established for a new species of Limacodidae, Y. atrophaneuroides sp. nov. Yufengus is from Taiwan, yet its larva is similar to monkey-slug caterpillars in the New World (Phobetron Hübner, 1825: Limacodidae) in being covered with hairy, detachable tubercles. Monkey-slug caterpillars are currently known to form a monophyletic group which include as many as eight genera in the Americas referred to as the Phobetron complex by Epstein (1996). Although the larva of Yufengus appears, in particular, most similar to the genus Phobetron, a closer look at morphology reveals fundamental differences that are shared with Asian Phrixolepia Butler, 1877. Caterpillars of the new genus are structurally similar to Phrixolepia, but Phrixolepia is more translucent, less hairy, and differs in other characters including those of adults, separated by wing pattern and genitalia. In addition to describing the new genus Yufengus, we explore whether it is indeed in the same clade as the Phobetron complex of genera from the New World. The life history and morphology of adults and immature stages are described in this study.
["Detachable tubercles"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

A new species of the genus Plotina Lewis, 1896 (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from Guangdong, China
The genus Plotina Lewis, 1896 (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Plotinini) is distributed in the Oriental region. To date, eight species have been described, all of which are currently recorded from China. A new species, Plotina nanlingensis Lin & Wang, sp. nov. is described from the Nanling National Nature Reserve in China. Morphological details and genitalia of the new species are presented. A checklist of all known species in this genus is also provided.
["Checklist"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Research on scale insects"]

Further taxonomic studies of the mimetic genus Euryobeidia Fletcher, 1979 (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae, Baptini), with descriptions of four new taxa and two status changes
The genus Euryobeidia Fletcher, 1979, is reviewed based on morphological characters and available molecular data of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I. Four new taxa of this genus are described: E. supercostata sp. nov. and E. tigratoides sp. nov. from Hainan, China; E. xuei sp. nov. from N. Vietnam and Yunnan, China; and E. tigratoides leopardiformis subsp. nov. from Hubei and Sichuan, China. E. incrassata Xiang & Han, 2017 is downgraded to subspecies rank under E. languidata (Walker, 1862) (E. languidata incrassata Xiang & Han, 2017, stat. nov.). The subspecies E. languidata yakushimensis Inoue, 1976, is raised to species status (E. yakushimensis Inoue, 1976, stat. nov.). Adult males and females of all taxa mentioned above, including their genitalia, are illustrated, except for E. supercostata sp. nov. and E. xuei sp. nov., which are known only from males. An identification key and a geographic distribution map for all known taxa of Euryobeidia are presented. The systematics and mimetic relationships of Euryobeidia are briefly discussed.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Morphological and molecular revision of the subfamily Heterolepismatinae (Zygentoma, Lepismatidae), with descriptions of two new genera from the Atacama Desert, Chile
This work aims to update the systematics of silverfish of the subfamily Heterolepismatinae (Zygentoma, Lepismatidae) based on morphological and molecular data of new taxa from the Atacama Desert (Chile) with a comparison with specimens from Argentina, from where species originally described as belonging to the genus Heterolepisma Escherich, 1905 come. This comparison also includes COI gene sequences of Argentine specimens attributed to H. andinum (Silvestri, 1902), and of Australian Heterolepismatinae previously classified as Heterolepisma or Visma Smith et al., 2021. As a result, the genera Lapidisma gen. nov. and Cactisma gen. nov. are described from Chile, and new morphological characters diagnostic of H. andinum are provided. The species Lapidisma paposanum sp. nov. and Cactisma camanchaca sp. nov. are associated with different habitats. The species Heterolepisma annectens (Silvestri, 1924) is tentatively attributed to the first genus (Lapidisma annectens comb. nov.). The molecular data place the three South American genera in separate lineages, but cluster them as a sister group to the Australian Heterolepisma + Visma. This supports the proposal of the genus Silvestrisma gen. nov. to include Australian species previously assigned to Heterolepisma. Additionally, the new name Vistrolepisma nom. nov. is proposed for silverfish species previously assigned to the genus Visma, since this generic name is pre-occupied. With this re-arrangement, the subfamily Heterolepismatinae consists of six genera, pending further studies in other geographic regions where poorly studied species occur that were (and are provisionally) assigned to Heterolepisma.
["Cactisma"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Two new Galendromimus species (Acari, Phytoseiidae) from Brazil, with a world key and distributional notes on the tribe Galendromimini
Two new species of Galendromimus Muma are described based on female and male specimens collected from native plants in the Atlantic Forest of Bahia State, northeastern Brazil: Galendromimus (Galendromimus) primulaporis Santos, Demite & Lofego, sp. nov. and Galendromimus (Galendromimus) striatusornatus Santos, Demite & Lofego, sp. nov. The tribe Galendromimini comprises predatory mites of ecological and agricultural importance. Although well studied in some regions, the diversity and distribution of Phytoseiidae in tropical areas remain incompletely known. Besides the species descriptions, we provide a global distribution summary and an updated identification key for all known Galendromimini species. These contributions improve taxonomic resolution and biogeographic knowledge, facilitating future ecological, evolutionary, and applied research.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

Two new nematode species of the genus Zalonema (Desmodorida, Desmodoridae, Desmodorinae) from mangrove wetlands, China
Two new species of the genus Zalonema Cobb, 1920 were identified during a meiofaunal survey of mangrove sediment in China. Zalonema eurysbucca sp. nov. is characterized by body length 1772–2309 µm, cuticle with transverse annuli; cephalic setae measuring 1–2 µm, and eight subcephalic setae (2–3 µm) arranged in a circle between the cephalic setae and the anterior margin of the amphid; amphideal fovea (4–4.5 turns) located laterally on the main posterior portion of the cephalic capsule; buccal cavity large and cup-shaped, with twelve cheilorhabdia in the vestibule, a cuticularized dorsal tooth, and minute ventral tooth; males possess lateral and ventral alae; spicule length (as arc) about 1.13–1.34 times the anal body diameter (abd); a small cup-shaped preanal supplement is present, and the ventral ala exhibit pore-like depressions at the somatic setae positions. Zalonema cylindribucca sp. nov. is distinguished by the following characteristics: body length 1158–1451 μm; cuticle with transverse annuli; four cephalic setae (2–3 µm) and eight subcephalic setae (2–3 µm) arranged in separate circular rows; amphideal fovea with 3–3.5 turns; cylindrical buccal cavity containing 12 cheilorhabdia arranged circularly in the vestibule; a large dorsal tooth located near the cheilorhabdia base and a small ventral tooth at the buccal cavity’s base; males possess both lateral alae and ventral ala, spicules measuring 1.07–1.19 times the anal body diameter (as arc), a small cup-shaped preanal supplement present, and the ventral ala exhibit small pore-like depressions at somatic setae positions.
["Free-living marine nematode"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation"]

A new species of the genus Leptobrachella (Amphibia, Anura, Megophryidae) from the Darongshan Nature Reserve, Guangxi, China
A new species of the genus Leptobrachella, L. darongshanensis sp. nov., is described from the Darongshan Nature Reserve, Yulin City, Guangxi, China, integrating molecular, morphological, and bioacoustic evidence. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) medium body size (SVL 24.9–27.7 mm in males; 32.0–35.4 mm in females); (2) dorsal skin rough with small, raised tubercles and ridges; (3) ventral surface creamy white with minute irregular textures and tiny pale brown spots laterally on the belly; (4) flanks bearing irregular black spots; (5) distinct black supratympanic line; (6) rudimentary toe webbing on toes I–IV and absence of lateral dermal fringes on toes; (7) distinct, continuous ventrolateral glandular line; (8) iris bicolored, upper half tangerine, lower half silver with black reticulations, pupil black with tangerine edges; (9) tibiotarsal articulation reaching the posterior margin of the eye when adpressed; (10) advertisement calls with dominant frequencies of 6.1–6.7 kHz at 20.0 °C. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene indicate that L. darongshanensis sp. nov. and L. shiwandashanensis are sister taxa. The new species is currently known only from montane evergreen forests at elevations between 800 and 1,200 m within the Darongshan Nature Reserve, where it is sympatric with L. yunkaiensis.
["Bioacoustics"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Across desert and island: Phylogeny of two thin stick insects from China with taxonomic insights into the clade “Gratidiini II” (Phasmatodea, Clitumninae)
Extensive convergence led to poorly understood systematics of stick insects (Phasmatodea) in the past. Both Sceptrophasma bituberculatum and Macellina souchongia belong to the tribe Gratidiini of the family Bacillidae, but they were separated by about 3500 km and inhabit different zoogeographic regions. To further understand the Chinese Phasmatodea, we sequenced the above two species using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and assembled their mitochondrial genomes and standard molecular markers for two phylogenetic analyses. Mitochondrial genome (13 PCGs and 2 rRNAs) phylogeny showed that these two species, originally belonging to the family Bacillidae, were included in the subfamily Clitumninae. Another phylogeny including seven standard molecular markers (four mitochondrial genes: COI, COII, 12S, 16S and three nuclear genes: H3, 18S, 28S), covering more species revealed that: S. bituberculatum is the sister group of Clonaria spp. from Africa; and genus Macellina formed a complex clade with the Oriental Clonaria and Sceptrophasma. Our results corroborate that the family Bacillidae is not monophyletic as currently treated in the Phasmida Species File database and that the genera Clonaria and Sceptrophasma, which span different zoogeographic regions, are not monophyletic and are in need of further revision.
["Clitumninae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

A new reef-dwelling coral, Pavona giannii sp. nov. (Scleractinia, Agariciidae), with an overview of the skeletal morphology of the type specimens of the genus Pavona
Hard coral species in the agariciid genus Pavona are common in shallow and mesophotic coral reef communities across the Indo-Pacific, but their taxonomy has long been overlooked. Pavona giannii sp. nov. is here described based on newly collected material across the Indian Ocean, and historical museum specimens. In vivo and skeletal morphological features are described, diagnostic characters measured, and comparison with congeners performed. The new species forms an encrusting corallum devoid of raised ridges on its surface. Its corallites are flush with the surface, not inclined, and less than half a corallite diameter apart. Corallites arrangement is thamnasteroid and series can form locally. Where they occur, the radial elements run over the shared walls to the adjacent series’ corallites creating a ladder-like arrangement similar to that observed over the ridges in congeners like Pavona varians and Pavona chiriquiensis. Despite the lack of ridges, P. giannii sp. nov. has morphological affinities with these two species. However, based on previously published morphometrics and meristics, P. giannii sp. nov. corallites are larger and more crowded, and the primary septa are longer and more numerous. In vivo, the new species is distinguished by fully extended white to beige tentacles during the daytime, giving it a white-bearded appearance. Despite the ecological relevance of Pavona corals, a taxonomic revision of the genus is overdue, and the existing molecular studies indicate that it is polyphyletic. Here, the proposed placement of P. giannii sp. nov. in the genus is based on morphological evidence alone and phylogenomic analyses are currently in progress.
["Morphometricsmuseum collectionsreef-building coralskeletal morphologytaxonomy"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

A new Hemicyclops (Copepoda, Cyclopoida, Clausidiidae) associated with the scleractinian coral Galaxea from the South China Sea
The genus Hemicyclops Boeck, 1873 is known for its association with various marine invertebrates, including cnidarians, crustaceans, polychaetes, and sponges, with some species also occurring in planktonic communities. Here, we report the first association of Hemicyclops with the scleractinian coral Galaxea fascicularis (Linnaeus, 1767) (Scleractinia, Euphylliidae). Hemicyclops cyanus sp. nov. is described based on a female specimen collected from this coral host in the lagoon (depth 10 m) of Dongsha Atoll, Pratas Islands, South China Sea. The new species is readily distinguished from its congeners by its characteristic genital double-somite, which bears prominent anterolateral expansions, and by the flexed, elongated exopodal segment of leg 5, which is more than three times longer than wide. In H. cyanus sp. nov., the paired spermatophores attached to the female are fused into a butterfly-shaped, highly modified complex with large lateral wings and a central tube into which the female urosome is inserted. To aid in species identification, we present the first comparative plate with schematic illustrations of the genital double-somites for the group of 25 species, including the type species.
["Association"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new species of Pseudopoda (Araneae, Sparassidae) from China, with first description of the female of P. spiralis Zhang, Jäger & Liu, 2023
One new species of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 is described from Guangxi, southern China: P. rongxianensis sp. nov. Additional materials of P. deformis Gong & Zhong, 2023 and P. spiralis Zhang, Jäger & Liu, 2023 are also presented, with the female of P. spiralis described for the first time. Figures and distribution data of these three species are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A taxonomic review of Colobopsis minus (Wang & Wu, 1994), comb. nov. from China, with description of all castes (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Camponotus and Colobopsis are two species-rich genera within the ant tribe Camponotini. Despite their non-sister phylogenetic relationship, pronounced morphological convergence has long complicated their taxonomic delineation. Here, we clarify the status of Colobopsis minus (Wang & Wu, 1994), comb. nov., a taxon historically misassigned to Camponotus, through an integrative approach combining COI phylogenetics, caste-specific morphometrics, and pupae type. We provide the first comprehensive description of all castes (minor and major workers, gynes, and males), alongside two taxonomic keys to Chinese Colobopsis species. Critical evidence for reclassification includes: (1) phragmotic major workers with Colobopsis-specific cephalic modifications; (2) naked pupae and (3) molecular phylogenetic analyses of COI barcode sequences, which robustly place C. minus within the Colobopsis clade. This study underscores the necessity of synthesizing phylogenetic data with detailed morphological analysis to disentangle complex taxonomic histories in hyperdiverse ant groups.
["Camponotus"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Mammal diversity and tourism influence in an under-investigated region of Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, hosting almost 4% of all known mammals. Although the local mammals have undoubtedly been more investigated than those of other Central American countries, some regions still appear poorly known to date, such as the Nicoya Peninsula, NW Costa Rica. Our research focuses on the Karen Mogensen Wildlife Refuge, an important component of the Nicoya Peninsula Biological Corridor. This investigation represents the first comprehensive study of mammals of this area, with the aims to provide baseline information on the mammal community and tourism management. The investigation during a 6-year period (2018–2023) revealed the presence of 60 species, belonging to 50 genera, 23 families, and 8 orders, indicating a high species richness of the area. Among these, we highlight the occurrence of the globally Vulnerable Alouatta palliata and Cebus imitator and the Near Threatened Leopardus wiedii and Vampyrum spectrum, along with the recently recognised Lontra annectens, whose status is still Not Evaluated. The influence of tourism on activity patterns of mammals was also investigated. Using camera trapping, 13 species were detected in 537 trap-days and divided based on functional traits. No evidence of impacts caused by the presence of tourists was found on these species. This suggests that the current conservation policies of the Wildlife Refuge appear to be incorporating ecotourism in a wise and thoughtful manner. The information gathered will be a useful tool for the development and implementation of conservation strategies and actions at the local scale in the near future.
["Activity patterns"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Two new species of the genus Glaucocharis (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) from China
Two new species of the genus Glaucocharis, Glaucocharis weii Li & He, sp. nov., and G. pangda Li & He, sp. nov., encountered in the primaeval forests of southern Xizang of China, are described. Images illustrating the adult morphology of the new species are provided.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Chicosa gen. nov. (Araneae, Lycosidae), a new genus of wolf spiders from East Asia
The new genus Chicosa gen. nov. (type species: Alopecosa cinnameopilosa (Schenkel, 1963) is described and the new combination Chicosa cinnameopilosa (Schenkel, 1963), comb. nov. is made. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial loci do not place Chicosa cinnameopilosa into Alopecosa or the subfamily Lycosinae but rather suggest it is sister to Wadicosa Zyuzin, 1985 + Pardosa C. L. Koch, 1847. Descriptions of the new genus and known species, supplemented by photographs, a distribution map, and phylogenetic evidence, are provided.
["Araneae"]

Two new species of the Clistopyga henryi species-group (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) from South America, with a key to species of the group
The Neotropical Clistopyga henryi species-group includes currently four described species. In this study, we describe two new species (C. peruandina Sääksjärvi & Pádua, sp. nov. and C. teresopolitana Pádua, sp. nov.) from the Peruvian Andes and Brazilian coastal rainforests. In addition, we provide information on the variation of C. carinata Bordera & Palacio and a key to species of the species-group.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Three new species of Psilogamasus Athias-Henriot, 1969 (Acari, Parasitiformes, Parasitidae) from Southwest China
The present study reports three new species of Psilogamasus. Among them, one species, Psilogamasus brachysaccatus Jin & Yao, sp. nov. from the Xizang Autonomous Region, China, was described and illustrated based on adult females and males. Two species, Psilogamasus decemtrichus Ren & Yi, sp. nov. and Psilogamasus bidens Ren & Yi, sp. nov. from Yunnan Province, China, were described and illustrated based on females. Parasitus truncatus Tseng is transferred from the genus Parasitus to Psilogamasus. A key to the known species of Psilogamasus is provided.
["Decomposing leaves"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Four new species of Symphylella (Symphyla, Scolopendrellidae) from Chongqing, southwest China with DNA barcoding analysis
The symphylans from Chongqing, Southwest China were investigated and studied for the first time. Four new species of the genus Symphylella, S. obtusa sp. nov., S. yintiaolingensis sp. nov., S. flabella sp. nov., and S. micropora sp. nov., are identified and described. They were compared with similar species in detail. The DNA barcodes for all new species were sequenced and analyzed together with other congeners and the genetic distance analysis further support our morphological determination. In addition, two groups, the isabellae group and oligosetosa group, of the genus Symphylella are proposed based on the pattern of inserted setae on the tergal processes, and their respective species are listed.
["Genetic distance"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Phenasurya daeng, a new genus and species of plexippine jumping spider (Salticidae, Plexippini, Plexippina) from Thailand
We describe a new plexippine genus and new species, Phenasurya daeng gen. et sp. nov., with a striking red face, from Thailand. Its placement within Plexippina is supported by ultraconserved element (UCE)-based phylogenomic analyses, supplemented with a broader four-gene analysis. Morphological evidence further justifies its generic status. Phenasurya daeng is recovered near cf. Colopsus and Pancorius but is morphologically distinct from both. These findings reveal a new red-faced lineage and settle the identity of a perplexing jumping spider.
["Araneae"]

The Hydradephaga (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Gyrinidae, Haliplidae, Noteridae) of the Iberá wetlands, the second largest wetland area of South America
This study presents the first inventory of Hydradephaga beetles from the Iberá wetlands, a natural reserve located in the province of Corrientes, Argentina. A total of 80 taxa were recognised, of which 62 are identified at the species level and 18 at the genus level. Of the four Hydradephaga families present in Argentina, Dytiscidae is the richest in terms of the number of genera and species (25 genera, 43 species), followed by Noteridae (6 genera, 32 species), Gyrinidae (2 genera, 3 species), and Haliplidae (1 genus, 2 species). The following five species are recorded for the first time in Argentina: Copelatus cf. inornatus Sharp, 1882; Bidessodes cf. evanidus Young, 1986; Neobidessus trilineatus (Zimmermann, 1925); Haliplus nieseri van Vondel & Spangler, 2008; and Suphisellus cf. pereirai Guignot, 1958. Additionally, eight species are reported for the first time in the province of Corrientes: Meridiorhantus orbignyi (Balke, 1992); Celina cf. parallela (Babington, 1842); Laccophilus cf. obliquatus Régimbart, 1889; Laccophilus cf. paraguensis Régimbart, 1903; Haliplus ornatipennis Zimmermann, 1921; Hydrocanthus paraguayensis Zimmermann, 1928; Mesonoterus crassicornis (Régimbart, 1889); and Suphisellus cf. rufipes (Sharp, 1882). The high diversity of Hydradephaga beetles recorded highlights the ecological significance of this protected area.
["Aquatic beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of the genus Brunettia Annandale, 1910 (Diptera, Psychodidae, Psychodinae) from China
Two new species of the genus Brunettia Annandale, 1910, collected from China, are described as new to science: Brunettia zunyiensis sp. nov. and Brunettia sinensis sp. nov. An updated key to the species of Brunettia from China is presented.
["Brunettia"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Mayflies of the Fiji Islands (Ephemeroptera)
Material collected in 2024 in nine different rivers on the two main islands of Fiji, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, is the basis for this taxonomic study of mayflies of the Fiji Islands. Apart from one larva of Caenidae, not treated in this study, all other larvae and three female imagos belong to two genera of the family Baetidae (Baetis Leach and Papuanatula Lugo-Ortiz & McCafferty). A new subgenus of Papuanatula, Fijifiliola subgen. nov., based on the larvae of ten new species, and the larva and female imago of one new species of Baetis are described and illustrated. DNA barcodes (COI) were obtained for most species, and their genetic distances were analysed (Kimura-2 parameter). A key to all species of Papuanatula (Fijifiliola) subgen. nov. is provided. Amongst the new species of Papuanatula (Fijifiliola) subgen. nov., a case of parthenogenesis and likely ovoviviparity is discussed.
["Baetis"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of the genus Leptobrachella (Anura, Megophryidae) from central Guangdong Province, China
In this study, a new species, Leptobrachella kungfu sp. nov., from Foshan City, central Guangdong Province, China, is described based on a combination of molecular and morphological data. Phylogenetically, the new species is closely related to L. yunkaiensis from western Guangdong Province and can be distinguished from all congeners by a combination of discrete morphological characters. A key to the species of this genus from Guangdong and a distribution map are provided to support further regional research and conservation.
["Leptobrachella kungfu sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A Japan-focused review of East Asian Acicnemis Fairmaire, 1849 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) reveals cryptic diversity in a well-studied region
The East Asian species of Acicnemis Fairmaire, 1849 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Molytinae) are reviewed using a combination of traditional morphological approaches (microscopy, dissections) and DNA barcoding. Three new species, A. cryptica Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov., A. koguma Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov. and A. squamata Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov. are described from mainland Japan. The former two species are cryptic and sister to more widespread, previously described taxa. Based on examination of name-bearing type material and morphological considerations Acicnemis cruciata Kleine, 1924 syn. nov. is a junior subjective synonym of Acicnemis postica Hubenthal, 1919, Acicnemis yakushimana Morimoto & Miyakawa, 1995 syn. nov. is a junior subjective synonym of A. dividicincta Morimoto & Miyakawa, 1995, and Acicnemis dorsonigrita Voss, 1941 syn. nov. is a junior subjective synonym of Acicnemis palliata Pascoe, 1872. Lectotypes are designated for Acicnemis albofasciata (Ter-Minasian, 1953), A. laeta Hubenthal, 1919, A. postica Hubenthal, 1919 and A. sauteri Hubenthal, 1919. Important morphological characters used in Acicnemis species identification are reviewed and a key to the East Asian species is provided. DNA (CO1) barcoding is used to supplement our morphology-based species hypothesis, and the first published barcodes for most species covered here are presented.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Caribbean Amphipoda (Crustacea) of Panama. Part V: parvorder Amphilochidira
The parvorder Amphilochidira includes 1,152 described species in 24 families. Amphilochidiran amphipods retain many plesiomorphic character states and are thought to represent the ancestral state of amphipods. Many amphipods in this parvorder cling to substrates such as algae or sponges. Nineteen species from four families within the parvorder are documented from Bocas del Toro, Panama, including one new species, Apolochus dragensis sp. nov. Range extensions are documented for eight species, including two species previously documented only from the Pacific Ocean. All species are diagnosed and an identification key to the Amphilochidira amphipods of Panama is provided herein.
["Amphilochidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

New species of Papuanatula Lugo-Ortiz & McCafferty, 1999 from New Guinea (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) with focus on Batanta Island
Since 2010, the Mátra Museum of the Hungarian Natural History Museum has conducted a long-term research program to explore the biodiversity and collect data of selected groups of insects and partly other animals on the island of Batanta (Indonesia, West Papua). During this research project, numerous mayflies of different stages were collected as well. In this study, mayflies of the highly diverse genus Papuanatula (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) collected in Batanta between 2014 and 2025 were investigated. Six new species were discovered, four belonging to the subgenus Papuanatula s. str., P. batantaraja sp. nov., P. cukiclara sp. nov., P. cataracta sp. nov., P. batanlenos sp. nov., and two to the subgenus Papuafiliola, P. horvathrobi sp. nov. and P. longabranchias sp. nov. Their larval stages are described and illustrated. Additionally, imagos and subimagos of two of the new species are described as well, and the eggs of one species. Furthermore, a new species of Papuanatula from another region of New Guinea is described. For most species, the species delimitation is also supported by mitochondrial DNA data (COI). Keys to the larvae of all species per subgenus or species group relevant for Batanta are presented. The total number of Papuanatula species is augmented to 33.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

A new species of Myotis from China with notes on the siligorensis species group (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae)
On the basis of molecular and morphological studies of samples collected in China, a new Myotis species belonging to the siligorensis group is described, Myotis kalkoae Tiunov, Jiang, & Liu, sp. nov. The species rank of M. sowerbyi and M. alticraniatus was confirmed. All three taxa under consideration belong to different genetic lines and can be distinguished from each other and from other morphologically similar species based on the shape of their baculum and tragus. The difficulties of taxonomy within the M. siligorensis species group are discussed.
["Baculum"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Cryptotermes mobydicki (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae), an extraordinary new termite species from French Guiana
Cryptotermes mobydicki sp. nov. is described from the soldier caste. The soldier is unique among all Cryptotermes species worldwide for its very narrow, elongate head capsule terminating with an extended frontal process. The new species constitutes the sixteenth Cryptotermes species for South America. Our phylogenetic reconstruction indicates that C. mobydicki sp. nov. is most closely related to the Neotropical and Central American C. mangoldi, C. parvifrons, C. cymatofrons, C. rotundiceps, and C. cavifrons.
["Amazonia"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Nitocra Boeck, 1865 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from Vietnam
An undescribed taxon of the species-rich genus Nitocra was found during a survey on the harpacticoid copepods from the hyporheic zone in Vu Gia–Thu Bon Rriver, Central Vietnam. The new species, N. duyxuyenensis sp. nov., is morphologically similar to the American N. evergladensis Bruno & Reid, 2002. These two species can be separated by the number of marginal spinules on the anal operculum, the relative length of the baseoendopod of the female fifth leg, the structure of the antenna, the number of setae on the female fifth leg, the number of setae on the inner margin of the first endopodal segment of the second to fourth swimming legs of the males, and the number of setae on the third endopodal segment of the third swimming leg. Additionally, some comments on the groups and subgroups of the genus defined so far are given, with the proposal of the lacustris species subgroup for group III of Gómez et al. (2012).
["Groundwater fauna"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

New species of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge from Thailand (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Investigations of material collected by one of us (CS) between May 2017 and November 2023 from 70 localities in Thailand further increases our knowledge of the diversity of the genus Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge, 1987 in Thailand and Southeast Asia in general. Eleven species have been identified using a combination of morphological and molecular analysis (COI). Nine are new to science, they are described and illustrated based on their larvae, and in one case, complemented by the male imago. Two of the new species belong to the L. batakorum species group, L. mon sp. nov., L. lahu sp. nov.; three to the L. numeratus species group, L. tenasserimensis sp. nov., L. angularis sp. nov., L. tonsator sp. nov.; one to the L. operosus species group, L. nisaratae sp. nov., and three to the L. sumigarensis species group, L. karen sp. nov., L. septem sp. nov., L. ranongensis sp. nov. A key to all species of Labiobaetis from continental Southeast Asia is provided. Additionally, the genetic distances (COI; Kimura-2 parameter) including all species treated in this study are discussed. The total number of Labiobaetis species worldwide is augmented to approximately 170.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Additional new species of the genus Zaitzevia (Coleoptera, Elmidae) from China with an updated key to species from mainland China
The riffle beetle genus Zaitzevia Champion, 1923 comprises 29 described species, distributed across Asia and North America. China exhibits particularly high species diversity within this genus, with 16 recorded species. In this study, we describe two new Zaitzevia species from China: Z. fodingshanus sp. nov. from Guizhou Province and Z. lipingae sp. nov. from Yunnan Province. Habitus and diagnostic features of the new species are illustrated, along with a checklist of all known Chinese Zaitzevia species, a key, and a distribution map of Zaitzevia species from mainland China. The comparative diagnoses discuss characters of the new and known species. The results show that the existing species diversity requires more detailed research acrosslarger areas of Southwest China in the future.
["Aquatic beetle"]

Taxonomic notes on the little-known genus Metahelotella Kirejtshuk (Coleoptera, Cucujoidea, Helotidae) from southwestern China, with description of a new species and two new records
Metahelotella alatonotata sp. nov. is described from Yunnan, China. Habitus and diagnostic characters of the new species are illustrated. Metahelotella semifulva (Ritsema, 1881) and Metahelotella immaculata (Ritsema, 1891) are newly recorded from China. A distribution map of the genus Metahelotella in Indochina and southwestern China and a taxonomic key to all species are provided.
["Cucujiformia"]

Morphology and molecular phylogeny of Monomicrocaryon trimarginalis sp. nov. (Ciliophora, Hypotricha), a new soil ciliate species from South Korea
The morphology and molecular phylogeny of the new soil ciliate, Monomicrocaryon trimarginalis sp. nov., which was discovered in the soil of from Gwangdeok Mountain, Hwacheon-Gun, South Korea, were investigated. The new species is characterized by the following morphological features: cell ellipsoidal to slightly ovate, with both ends rounded; cortical granules absent; 17–24 adoral membranelles; three frontal cirri; four frontoventral cirri, two postoral ventral cirri; one buccal cirrus; 10–13 left and 9–13 right marginal cirri; five transverse cirri; four dorsal kineties and three dorsomarginal kineties; two macronuclear nodules and one micronucleus in between macronuclear nodules. Phylogenetic analyses showed that M. trimarginalis sp. nov. is placed within a clade containing M. euglenivorum euglenivorum and species belonging to Quadristicha in the dorsomarginalian hypotrichs.
["Ciliate"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

Testing conflicting taxonomic hypotheses in myrmecophilous Oochrotus Lucas, 1852 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae)
Cryptic and pseudocryptic species are common in myrmecophilous insects, making their taxonomic classification complex when based solely on morphology. This is the case for the beetles of the genus Oochrotus Lucas, 1852, a group of small tenebrionids inhabiting ant nests. In 1961, Canzoneri described one new species and eight subspecies based on the morphology of the aedeagus and ovipositor. However, in 2000, Soldati and Soldati synonymised most of these taxa, arguing that the differences found by Canzoneri were not significant. The aim of our study was to test these two competing hypotheses using a molecular approach. For this purpose, partial sequences of the nuclear gene ITS2 and the mitochondrial gene cytb were obtained from individuals from North Africa, Italy, and the Iberian Peninsula, followed by phylogenetic analyses based on Bayesian inference. The results show that specimens from these three territories are in separate lineages corresponding to three different species: 1) O. unicolor Lucas, 1852; 2) O. laurae Canzoneri, 1961, stat. rev., and 3) O. lusitanicus Canzoneri, 1961, stat. nov. (= O. u. espagnoli Canzoneri, 1961, syn. nov.; = O. u. hispanus Canzoneri, 1961, syn. nov.; = O. u. meridionalis Canzoneri, 1961, syn. nov.). This new proposal diverges from both preceding hypotheses, showing an intermediate level of diversity between the two. This reflects that species of the genus Oochrotus are probably pseudocryptic, whose morphological examination may lead to misidentification in the absence of molecular data.
["Beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

The psyllid genus Ciriacremum (Hemiptera, Psyllidae) in Brazil
Ciriacremum is a genus of Ciriacreminae (Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha, Psylloidea, Psyllidae) comprising 26 validly described species in the Afrotropical realm and only one in the Neotropics. Here we add four new species from Brazil, which are named and diagnosed, including illustrations and an identification key for adults: Ciriacremum lanceolatum sp. nov. (from Mato Grosso), C. maederae sp. nov. (from Amazonas), C. pollicigerum sp. nov. (from Amazonas) and C. roraima sp. nov. (from Roraima). Two other species are reported from Brazil (Amazonas and Pará) but not formally named due to insufficient material. Apart from C. setosum (from Nicaragua) and the Brazilian species treated in this paper, there are at least four additional undescribed species from the Neotropics (Colombia, Guyana, Panama, Suriname, and Venezuela), which are briefly discussed. Little is known about the immatures and host plants of the Neotropical species. The only confirmed host is Hymenaea sp. (Fabaceae) of C. maederae sp. nov. Adults were collected also on other fabaceous genera that are possible hosts. In the Neotropics, Ciriacremum is restricted to the tropics between Nicaragua in the north and Brazil (Mato Grosso) in the south.
["Ciriacreminae"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

The genus Batophila Foudras, 1860 (Coleoptera, Chrysomeliae, Galerucinae, Alticitae) in Taiwan, with descriptions of 11 new species
The Taiwanese species of the genus Batophila Foudras, 1860 are revised. Batophila acutangula Heikertinger, 1921 is removed from the list of Taiwanese fauna. Batophila taiwanica Döberl, 2010 is recognized and redescribed. Additionally, eleven new species from Taiwan are described: B. alishanensis sp. nov., B. choui sp. nov., B. chungi sp. nov., B. houjayi sp. nov., B. huangi sp. nov., B. jungchani sp. nov., B. meihuai sp. nov., B. tsoui sp. nov., B. wusheensis sp. nov., B. yehi sp. nov., and B. yuae sp. nov. The species descriptions include illustrations of aedeagi, antennae, gonocoxae, abdominal ventrite VIII, and spermathecae.
["Host plant"]

The microsnail genera Clostophis and Acinolaemus (Eupulmonata, Pupilloidea, Hypselostomatidae) from central Thailand, with description of three new species
Hypselostomatid microsnails of the genera Clostophis and Acinolaemus from limestone hills in central Thailand were studied and three new species are described. Clostophis rhynchotes Tongkerd & Panha, sp. nov. is diagnosed by a conical spire, long and descending tuba, 14 spiral striations on the last whorl, and only a single parietal lamella. In addition, a previously known species, C. proboscideus, is redescribed, and variations in its apertural dentition are also documented. In the genus Acinolaemus, two new sympatric species that clearly differ in shell shape are described. Acinolaemus rhamphodontis Tongkerd & Panha, sp. nov. is characterised by a depressed conical spire with a long and descending tuba, and eight apertural dentitions, while A. corusticorus Tongkerd & Panha, sp. nov. possesses a conical shell without a tuba and nine apertural dentitions. Specimens from the type locality of A. ptychochilus (the type species), A. cryptidentatus and A. mueangonensis are re-described and compared with the new species. The living snails of A. mueangonensis and A. rhamphodontis Tongkerd & Panha, sp. nov. possess blackish to translucent bodies. In addition, COI barcoding data for Clostophis and Acinolaemus are provided for the first time.
["Chao Phraya River"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A new species of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950 (Squamata, Scincidae) from Guizhou Province, southwest China
A new species of the genus Scincella Mittleman is described from Qixingguan District, Bijie City, Guizhou Province, China, based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species, Scincella tenuistriata sp. nov., is diagnosed by the medium body size; tympanum diameter significantly larger than the palpebral disc; midbody scale rows 24; total ventral + gular scale rows numbering 61–66; toes nearly or just touching fingers when limbs are adpressed; 9 or 10 enlarged lamellae beneath finger IV, and 11 or 12 beneath toe IV; and the dark dorsolateral stripes narrow and wavy, covering 0.5–1 scale rows on the trunk, with four scale rows in between on the dorsum. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 12S, 16S, and CO1 gene fragments indicate that the new species is most closely related to S. alia Bragin, Zenin, Nguyen & Poyarkov, but differs by an uncorrected p-distance of 8.6–8.8% in the CO1 gene. The discovery of the new species raises the number of currently recognized Scincella species to 51, underscoring the underestimated diversity of the genus.
["Molecular phylogeny"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

New morphological data on Kurzia longirostris (Daday, 1898) (Crustacea, Branchiopoda) from the Congo River Basin
Africa is recognized for its high levels of endemism across many groups of organisms, including Cladocera. Several studies contributed to our understanding of the diversity and geographic distribution of some groups of Chydoridae on this continent. The literature, however, points to species presumed to occur naturally on other continents, suggesting that both diversity and endemism in Africa continue to be underestimated. Despite the absence of more comprehensive knowledge about the morphology of Kurzia longirostris (Daday, 1898) from the terra typica (Oriental region), our findings revealed small morphological differences between populations of the Congo River when compared with literature reports. Looking at the high morphological variability along the range of its geographic distribution, it becomes clear that K. longirostris might be indicated as a species complex. Thus, the idea of continental endemism should be tested in a future revision of the group.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Diglyphus Walker (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) from China, with notes on its biology and a key to the Chinese species
A new species of Diglyphus Walker, D. albifemur Liu, Hansson & Guo, sp. nov., is described based on extensive material from China collected from 2016 to 2024. The entire material included here has been reared from agromyzid leafminers (Diptera, Agromyzidae), mainly from Phytomyza vitalbae Kaltenbach, mining leaves of Clematis orientalis L. The new species is morphologically similar to the European species D. clematidis Navone & Hansson and shares the same host plant genus (Clematis) but can be distinguished by several diagnostic features detailed herein. Mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences of the new species are provided. The identification key to Chinese Diglyphus species by Zhu et al. (2000) was extended to incorporate the new species and all other Chinese species described since that publication.
["Agromyzidae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Description of two new genera and seven new species of Plexippina Simon, 1901 (Araneae, Salticidae, Plexippini) from Southwest China, with a review of Yaginumaella Prószyński, 1979
Two new genera and seven new species of the subtribe Plexippina Simon, 1901 are reported from Southwest China based on both morphological and molecular evidence. They are Chuanattus deelemanae C. Wang, Mi & Li, gen. et sp. nov. (♂♀), Dianattus proszynskii C. Wang, Mi & Li, gen. et sp. nov. (♂♀), Yaginumaella daolangi C. Wang, Mi & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), Y. medog C. Wang, Mi & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), Y. qianlei C. Wang, Mi & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), Y. spinapophysis C. Wang, Mi & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), and Y. xiaoqingi C. Wang, Mi & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). Diagnostic photos and a distributional map of those new species are provided. The genus Yaginumaella Prószyński, 1979 is reviewed, and 21 new and 34 restored combinations transferred from Ptocasius Simon, 1885 except Y. pentamaculata (Hu, 2001), comb. nov. from Menemerus Simon, 1868, are proposed: Thyene incognita (Żabka, 1981), comb. nov., Y. angulata (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. badongensis Song & Chai, 1992, comb. rest., Y. bhutanica Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. bulbosa Peng, Tang & Li, 2008, comb. rest., Y. cambridgei Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. circula (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. danzhu (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. davidi (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. falcata Zhu, Zhang, Zhang & Chen, 2005, comb. rest., Y. filiforma (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. foliolata (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. gemina (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. gogonaica Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. helvetorum Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. hubeiensis Li, Wang, Irfan & Peng, 2018, comb. rest., Y. hybrida Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. intermedia Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. jietouensis (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. linzhiensis (Hu, 2001), comb. nov. (placed initially in Ptocasius), Y. longapophysis (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. longlingensis (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. lushiensis Zhang & Zhu, 2007, comb. rest., Y. montana Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. nepalica Żabka, 1980, comb. rest., Y. nobilis Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. nova Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. orientalis Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. originalis Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. pilosa Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. pseudoflexa Liu, Yang & Peng, 2016, comb. rest., Y. pulchella Li, Wang, Irfan & Peng, 2018, comb. rest., Y. rectangula (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. robusta (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. senchalensis Prószyński, 1992, comb. rest., Y. silvatica Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. simoni Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. songi (Logunov, 1995), comb. nov., Y. stemmleri Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. strandi Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. subhubeiensis (Wang, Mi & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. supina Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. tenella Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. tengchongensis (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. tenzingi Żabka, 1980, comb. rest., Y. thakkholaica Żabka, 1980, comb. rest., Y. thimphuica Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. umbellulata (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov., Y. urbanii Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. variegata (Logunov, 1995), comb. nov., Y. versicolor Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. wangdica Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. wuermli Żabka, 1981, comb. rest., Y. zonata (Yang & Peng, 2023), comb. nov. Pancorius lobatus (Peng, Tso & Li, 2002), comb. nov. is also proposed (transferred from Yaginumaella and it could be a junior synonym of Pancorius submontanus Prószyński, 1992). Ptocasius zabkai Yang & Peng, 2023 is assigned as a synonym of Y. zonata.
["Morphology"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Revision of Acroclisoides Girault & Dodd, 1915 (Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae, Metasteninae)
The species of Acroclisoides Girault & Dodd (Pteromalidae: Metasteninae) are revised. Twenty-three world species are recognized based on females, of which eight new species are described: Acroclisoides bimaculatus Tselikh, sp. nov. (Australia), A. fusus Tselikh & Mitroiu, sp. nov. (Africa), A. marimbae Tselikh & Mitroiu, sp. nov. (Africa), A. miklukhai Tselikh, sp. nov. (Papua New Guinea), A. nongae Tselikh, Lee & Ku, sp. nov. (Eastern Palearctic), A. simbis Tselikh & Mitroiu, sp. nov. (Africa), A. supramaculatus Tselikh, sp. nov. (Australia) and A. suryai Tselikh, sp. nov. (India). The genus Golovissima Dzhanokmen, 1982, syn. nov., is synonymized under Acroclisoides Girault & Dodd, 1915; the species Euneura borocerae Risbec, 1957, previously included in Acroclisoides by Bouček (1976), is transferred to Agiommatus Crawford, 1911, as A. borocerae (Risbec, 1957), comb. nov. The hitherto unknown male of A. major Girault & Dodd, 1915 is described for the first time. The following new records are reported: A. laticeps Girault & Dodd, 1915 from Papua New Guinea; A. luzonensis Gahan, 1920 from Indonesia, Malaysia and Republic of Korea; A. sinicus (Huang & Liao, 1988) from Japan and Vietnam; A. solus Grissell & Smith, 2006 from Japan and Russia. All the species are described or redescribed and illustrated by macrophotography, including type material of previously described species, and a key for the identification of the twenty-three known species is given.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Types matter: taxonomic status of Chanodichthys oxycephalus (Bleeker, 1871) (Cypriniformes, Xenocyprididae) and some relevant species of East Asia
Issues concerning the identification of Chanodichthys oxycephalus are addressed. This species is a senior synonym of Ch. oxycephaloides and is restricted to the Chang-Jiang basin and adjacent lakes. Specimens previously identified as Ch. oxycephalus, represent misidentifications of either Ch. abramoides or Ch. dabryi. Chanodichthys oxycephalus, Ch. abramoides, and Ch. dabryi are confirmed as three distinct species. Chanodichthys dabryi shinkainensis is treated as a junior synonym of Ch. abramoides. Additional comments are provided on some cultrin fishes from Lakes Dongting and Xingkai mentioned in earlier literature. This study clears up the taxonomic confusion surrounding associated species.
["Cultrin fishes"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A revision of a spring-active clade of Prosoeca Schiner, 1867 (Diptera, Nemestrinidae), keystone pollinators from the Greater Cape Floristic Region in South Africa, with descriptions of three new species
Prosoeca Schiner, 1867 is the most diverse genus of Nemestrinidae in Africa and is endemic to southern Africa. The 37 described species in this genus are all thought to be important pollinators for the plants that they visit. A recent phylogenetic study has shown that the diversity of this group is far larger than is formally recognised. Using of the phylogeny published by Theron et al. (2020), the monophyletic clade of six species from the Succulent Karoo that are on the wing during the spring flowering season are revised. The known species are redescribed and three new species are described: Prosoeca ora sp. nov., P. aquilo sp. nov., and P. parva sp. nov. A lectotype is designated for Prosoeca peringueyi Lichtwardt, 1920. DNA barcodes have been generated for five species to aid molecular identification of species.
["Afrotropics"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Xylochironomus Cranston newly recorded in the Oriental region (Diptera, Chironomidae), with description of three new species
Three new species of Xylochironomus Cranston are described here based on adult males from the Oriental region, specifically from South China and East Malaysia. The generic diagnosis for the adult male is emended, and a key to the males of known species is provided. This is the first formal record of Xylochironomus from the Oriental region, and indeed the first occurrence outside the Australian region, providing another representative in the Gondwana biogeographic clade.
["Emendation"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Scuttling in the highlands: Discovery of a new genus and species of freshwater crabs (Decapoda, Gecarcinucidae) from the Eastern Ghats, India
A new genus of gecarcinucid freshwater crab, Patithelphusa gen. nov., is described from the Shevaroy Hills, Yercaud, located in Salem District, Tamil Nadu, within the Eastern Ghats of India. This new genus is closely related to Baratha Bahir & Yeo, 2007 and Travancoriana Bott, 1969, but can be readily distinguished by a combination of morphological characters, including a relatively broad and shallow cervical groove, triangular bilobed median teeth on the epistomal median lobe, a blunt external orbital tooth with a relatively long outer margin, and a distinct G1 terminal segment terminating in a triangular tip. In addition, morphological characters together with molecular evidence from partial mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene sequences support the recognition of Patithelphusa yercaudensis sp. nov. as a distinct species, exhibiting a genetic divergence of 9.66% from its closest relative, Travancoriana schirnerae Bott, 1969. Phylogenetic analyses based on Bayesian inference and maximum-likelihood approaches recovered the newly described species as a well-supported monophyletic clade, distinctly separated from other known gecarcinucid taxa from India and the geographically proximate region of Sri Lanka. With the addition of this new genus and species, the diversity of Indian gecarcinucid crabs increases to 112 species across 31 genera. Furthermore, biogeographic inferences suggest that the new genus and species may be isolated from its closest gecarcinucid relatives by the wide valleys and the Cauvery River system, which likely act as ecological and geographical barriers. These unique topographical features may restrict gene flow and limit dispersal among high-altitude, habitat-specialist decapods, providing a refuge that facilitates the evolution of novel taxonomic units in peninsular India.
["Crustaceans"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

New species and new records of Phrynarachne crab spiders (Araneae, Thomisidae) from Southeast Asia
Two new species of Phrynarachne, P. gorochovi sp. nov. (♀), from Philippines (Luzon) and P. storozhenkoi sp. nov. (♀) from Malaysia (Borneo) are diagnosed, illustrated and described. Two species, P. ceylonica (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1884) and P. decipiens Forbes, 1884 are reported from Laos for the first time and their females are redescribed in detail. The distribution of P. decipiens is discussed.
["Aranei"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Integrated evidence reveals a new subspecies of Amolops Cope, 1865 (Anura, Ranidae) from northeastern Yunnan, China
A new subspecies of Amolops dafangensis Li, Liu, Ke, Cheng, & Wang, 2024, designated as Amolops dafangensis wumengmontis ssp. nov., is described from Mt. Wumeng, Zhaotong City, northeastern Yunnan, China, based on phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA and CO1 genes, as well as morphological examinations. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that specimens from the Wumeng Mountains clustered within Amolops dafangensis, forming two main clades within this species. Amolops dafangensis wumengmontis ssp. nov. demonstrates a close phylogenetic relationship with A. d. dafangensis and is differentiated from the nominal subspecies by specific characteristics: 1) tympanum indistinct; 2) tibiotarsal articulation just reaching anterior corner of the eye; 3) flat and indistinct inner and outer metacarpal tubercles; and 4) webbing formula: I1–1II1–1½III1–2IV2–1V.
["Amolops dafangensis wumengmontis ssp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The brown copper moth, Tridentaforma browncopper: DNA barcoding reveals a second species in the family Tridentaformidae (Lepidoptera, Adeloidea)
A biodiversity monitoring program in south-central British Columbia, Canada, at sites on traditional nłeʔképmx territory near the Highland Valley Copper mine, collected many specimens of an unknown moth. DNA barcode analysis revealed its affinity but deep divergence (14.3%) from Tridentaforma fuscoleuca (Braun, 1923), the only species in the family Tridentaformidae. The new species was assigned to the BIN (Barcode Index Number) BOLD:AFK8960. Morphological study confirmed its placement in this family but revealed marked genitalic differences from T. fuscoleuca. Given its genetic and morphological divergence, we describe Tridentaforma browncopper Monckton & Levesque-Beaudin, sp. nov. The scientific name is a translation of the name, skʷúnkʷl̓itkax̣n̓I, chosen by nłeʔképmx Elders and Knowledge Keepers, which means “brown copper moth”. Its discovery and naming reflect an effective collaboration among biodiversity scientists, industry representatives, and Indigenous communities. It also demonstrates how DNA barcoding can facilitate species descriptions without requiring taxonomists with specialist expertise in the group under investigation.
["Biotic survey"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Two new Parahiraciini planthoppers from Central Vietnam in the genera Gelastyrella and Pseudochoutagus (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae)
Two new planthopper species of the family Issidae, tribe Parahiraciini, are described from Central Vietnam: Gelastyrella vuquangensis sp. nov. from Vu Quang National Park in Ha Tinh Province, and Pseudochoutagus nuichuanus sp. nov. from Nui Chua National Park in Khanh Hoa Province. Illustrations of habitus and terminalia of the new species are given, as well as a distribution map and photographs of live specimens and their habitat.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Desmopuntius mahakamensis, a new cyprinid species (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) from East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Desmopuntius mahakamensis sp. nov., is described based on specimens from East Kalimantan, Indonesia. The new species, D. mahakamensis is distinguished from all congeners by the following combination of characters: anal-fin rays iii,5½; lateral line scales 26–27 (mode 26); predorsal scales 9–11 (mode 10); gill rakers 9–11 (mode 10); total vertebrae 29; axial streak present; presence of 5–6 black lateral stripes in adults (>30 mm SL), with stripe +1 extending from behind the gill opening along scale row 1 and reaching only to midbody, between the origin and end of the dorsal-fin base. Molecular evidence further supports the assignment of the new species in the genus Desmopuntius and its clear separation from congeners.

A deeper look into the diversity of Phyllium leaf insects from Indonesia: seven new species and two unique egg morphologies (Phasmatodea, Phylliidae)
Leaf insects of the genus Phyllium Illiger, 1798 are primarily distributed across Southeast Asia, with most species known from the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Subsequent to a morphological and phylogenetic review of all available Indonesian Phyllium, seven previously unknown species were identified and are described herein as Phyllium boislardi sp. nov., from northern Kalimantan; Phyllium cayabyabi sp. nov., from northern Kalimantan; Phyllium crapulatum sp. nov., from western Kalimantan; Phyllium hennemanni sp. nov., from Sulawesi; Phyllium illusorium sp. nov., from Buton; Phyllium morganae sp. nov., from Yapen; and Phyllium ouelleti sp. nov., from Obi. In addition to describing seven new species, two previously undescribed egg morphotypes are identified within Phylliidae, bringing the total number of recognized phylliid egg morphotypes to 13. The twelfth morphotype, found in Phyllium cayabyabi sp. nov., is characterized by spatulate pinnae and hollow, columnar pinnae covering the entire egg surface. The thirteenth, observed in Phyllium hennemanni sp. nov., is unique among phylliids in possessing lateral flaps that are held slightly away from the egg capsule. Due to the pronounced sexual dimorphism in phylliids, and the importance of establishing new species within a phylogenetic context, as well as correctly matching male and female specimens, a comprehensive phylogenetic tree was constructed based on nearly all currently described Phyllium species. Furthermore, the conditions outlined in Article 23.9.1 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature 1999 (ICZN), specifically sub-articles 23.9.1.1 and 23.9.1.2, have been satisfied regarding the binomen Phyllium longicorne Latreille, 1802. This name is herein designated as nomen oblitum, in favor of the junior synonym Pulchriphyllium bioculatum (Gray, 1832), nomen protectum. Therefore, the name Pulchriphyllium bioculatum (Gray, 1832) is considered valid and protected in accordance with the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature article 23.9.2.
["Endemic"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Genome sequencing provides novel insights into diadromous migration adaptations in the roughskin sculpin, Trachidermus fasciatus (Scorpaeniformes, Cottidae)
The ecological opportunities presented by the invasion from marine to freshwater habitats are considered to be an important catalyst for the adaptive radiation of many fish taxa. The sculpins (family Cottidae) serve as a typical representative of such successful evolutionary radiation from marine to freshwater environments, and among which, several intermediate diadromous taxa that can adapt to both marine and freshwater habitats have been evolved. However, little is known about the genetic basis underlying the diadromous migration adaptations for these euryhaline sculpins. Here, we have constructed a high-quality chromosome-level genome of the Cottidae species roughskin sculpin (Trachidermus fasciatus) and made a comparative genomic analysis of the genomes from the closely related species, aiming to elucidate the genetic basis and the possible evolutionary origin of its unique diadromous lifestyle. Our Hi-C data anchored the preliminary assembled sequences to 20 pseudochromosomes, resulting in a final corrected genome size of 526.39 Mb, with a scaffold N50 of 24.94 Mb. Phylogenetic analysis supports that the Cottidae family, to which roughskin sculpin belongs, possibly originated from the ocean, and should be reclassified under the suborder Cottoidei of the order Perciformes, rather than the classical order Scorpaeniformes. Comparative genomic analysis showed that 184 and 856 putative gene families in roughskin sculpin have undergone expansion and contraction, respectively. Enrichment categories of the top candidate genes under significant expansion were mainly associated with oxygen transport and immune response, possibly indicating their adaptations to the great oxygen demand and a wider range of pathogens across different salinity gradients during diadromous migration of roughskin sculpin. Additionally, 477 putative genes were identified to have undergone positive selection, which were enriched in categories related to DNA repair, innate immunity, and ion transport. This may indicate that the adaptive remodeling of immune systems and osmotic regulation mechanisms is essential for the roughskin sculpin to cope with the challenges posed by exposure to diverse microbial communities and fluctuations in salinity during migration. Our work not only provides valuable resources for understanding the genetic basis of the roughskin sculpin’s adaptation to a unique migratory lifestyle, but may also offer important insights into how evolutionary radiation from marine to freshwater habitats has been achieved in marine-originated sculpins.
["Comparative genomics"]
["Aquaculture disease management and microbiota", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Four new species of genus Acmella W.T. Blanford, 1869 (Gastropoda, Assimineidae) from Southern Thailand
This study explores the diversity of microsnails inhabiting limestone caves in Southern Thailand. It describes four new species of the genus Acmella W.T. Blanford, 1869 (Gastropoda, Assimineidae): Acmella krueangensis sp. nov. from Ranong Province, A. thamsingensis sp. nov. and A. changphueakensis sp. nov. from Chumphon Province, and A. kanchanaditensis sp. nov. from Surat Thani Province. These species are distinguished by shell morphology, particularly the number of striae on the last whorl and the protoconch sculpture. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences further support their distinctiveness and clarify their taxonomic placement. The results enhance the understanding of Acmella diversity in Thailand and shed light on biogeographical patterns found in this genus and the adaptations needed to survive under the conditions of cave systems.
["Cave-dwelling gastropods"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Amolops cuongi (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae), a new species from the Hoang Lien Range, Vietnam
A new species of the genus Amolops is described from the Hoang Lien Range, northwestern Vietnam as Amolops cuongi sp. nov. While morphological and molecular data assign these individuals to the Amolops mantzorum group, the new species is distinguishable from its congeners on the basis of a combination of the following diagnostic characters: size small (SVL 33.9–36.9 mm in males; 37.9–44.4 mm in females); head longer than wide; vomerine teeth absent or weakly developed; snout short (SE/SVL 0.15–0.17 in males; 0.14–0.16 in females); tympanum small (TD/ED 0.26–0.37 in males; 0.25–0.35 in females); the absence of circummarginal groove on the first finger; disc of finger III larger than tympanum; supratympanic fold present; dorsolateral fold absent; webbing formula I0–1II0–1III0–1IV1–0V; the presence of a band of small spinules and/or tubercles running from below nares, along upper lip, around lower half of eye, between tympanum and eye and rear axis of mandibles; granular skin on flanks and ventral surfaces of body; in life, dorsal body colouration of dark brown with diffuse-edged blotches of bluish grey, copper and yellowish green or pale green and copper; ventral surface of throat, chest and belly pale cream with white dots; males without vocal sacs; and nuptial pad velvety without spines. In the phylogenetic analysis using a combination of mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA, ND2, and cytochrome b (cyt b) genes, the new species is strongly supported as the most genetically distinct member of the Amolops mantzorum group with genetic distance ≥ 1.53% in the 16S rRNA, ≥ 8.70% in ND2, and ≥ 8.56% in cyt b compared to other members within the genus Amolops.
["Amolops mantzorum group"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New records and a new species of the subgenus Antocha (Antocha) Osten Sacken, 1860 (Diptera, Limoniidae) from Northwest China
Only a single species of the subgenus Antocha (Antocha) Osten Sacken (1860) was previously known to occur in Northwest China. In this study, four additional species are added to the regional fauna: A. (A.) bimaculata sp. nov. is described and illustrated as new species, while A. (A.) chonsaniana Podenas, 2015, and A. (A.) turkestanica de Meijere, 1921, which are reported from China for the first time, are illustrated in detail. Additionally, A. (A.) bifida Alexander, 1924, is recorded for the first time recorded in Northwest China. Furthermore, a key to the species of the subgenus Antocha (Antocha) in Northwest China is presented.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Nasutitermes aurantius (Isoptera, Termitidae, Nasutitermitinae), a new nasutiform termite species from Panama and a key to soldiers of Central American Nasutitermes Dudley, 1890
Nasutitermes aurantius sp. nov., is described from Central Panama. The soldier is unique among Central American Nasutitermes by its small size and orange head capsule coloration. The enteric valve armature is also unique among congeners. The new species constitutes the seventh Nasutitermes species in the region for which the soldier is described. We provide a key to all Central American Nasutitermes soldiers. Our phylogenetic reconstructions indicate that N. aurantius sp. nov. is more closely related to the Afrotropical Nasutitermes lujae than to any other Neotropical Nasutitermes.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Four new species of the genus Tasactes Faust, 1894 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Dryophthorinae) from China
Four new species of Tasactes Faust, 1894 are described from China: Tasactes angustus sp. nov., Tasactes ocellatus sp. nov., Tasactes pilosus sp. nov. from Xizang Autonomous Region, and Tasactes baoxingensis sp. nov. from Sichuan Province. Diagnostic characters are delineated through comparative morphology, supported by high-resolution habitus photographs and a key, with a distribution map of these species also provided.
["Diversity"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A redescription and two new descriptions of gnathiid isopods (Isopoda, Gnathiidae) from South African museum collections (1898–1976)
Museum collections continue to play a critical role in taxonomic research by preserving historical material and biodiversity records that might otherwise have been lost. In the present study, material from the Iziko South African Museum, Cape Town, was used to morphologically redescribe Gnathia spongicola Barnard, 1920, as well as describe two new species, Gnathia brevicula sp. nov. and Gnathia lancifera sp. nov., from the Temperate Southern Africa (TSA) marine realm. The triangular anterior margin of pereonite 6, with its midpoint projecting forward to reach pereonite 4 and bisect pereonite 5, is a feature rarely recorded among Gnathiidae (previously noted only in Gnathia disjuncta). However, this character is present in all three species examined in the present study. Of the three, Gnathia spongicola is characterised by a weak and bifid mediofrontal process; a single superior frontolateral process; strong and equally apically bifid, pronounced and pointed supraocular lobes; as well as strong distally curved mandibles with dentated blades. Gnathia brevicula sp. nov. is distinguished by two strong, rounded and extended frontolateral processes; broadly rounded and minimally developed supraocular lobes; and weakly curved mandibles with slight distal curvature. Gnathia lancifera sp. nov. can be characterised by a mediofrontal process that is weakly rounded; two strong and conical superior frontolateral processes; rounded and pronounced supraocular lobes; and strong, distally curved, crescent-shaped mandibles with dentation. These descriptions increase the number of known species of Gnathiidae from the TSA marine realm to 11.
["Gnathia"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Matching females with males in Chinese species of the strongly dimorphic cockroach genus Pseudoglomeris Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893 (Blattodea, Blaberidae, Perisphaerinae)
Females and males of six species of Pseudoglomeris, P. (P.) sculpta, P. (P.) valida moderata, P. (P.) fallax, P. (P.) beybienkoi, P. (Glomerexis) semisulcata, and P. (G.) angustifolia), are matched by employing both field observation and captive breeding approaches. A key to males of Pseudoglomeris from China is provided. The male of P. (P.) sculpta and both sexes of P. (P.) fallax are redescribed and photographs are provided.
["Cockroach"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Description of two new species of Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858 (Hymenoptera, Megaspilidae) from Yintiaoling Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China
Two new species of Conostigmus Dahlbom, 1858, C. rotundus Yang & Wang, sp. nov. and C. clayulatus Yang & Wang, sp. nov. are described from the Yintiaoling Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China. The 28S rDNA sequences of the new species were generated to associate the female and male of the same species.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Oreonectes qinae (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae), a new loach species from Guangxi, China
A new species of loach, Oreonectes qinae sp. nov., was collected in December 2024 from Guangxi Gutingshan Forest Park, Liuzhou City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. The new species can be distinguished from all other congeners by a suite of morphological characters, including a dorsal-fin origin posterior to the pelvic-fin origin, a degenerated posterior chamber of the swim bladder, and an incomplete lateral line, with 11–13 lateral-line pores. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cytb) gene sequences confirmed its separation, with uncorrected p-distances ranging from 1.4% to 8.7% compared to closely related species. The discovery of Oreonectes qinae sp. nov. reflects the hidden diversity within Oreonectes in the complex karst landscapes of Guangxi and emphasizes the need for further investigation and conservation of these cryptic freshwater species.
["Cavefish"]

The first mitogenomes of the subfamily Epipleminae (Lepidoptera, Uraniidae) and phylogenetic analysis of Macroheterocera
The subfamily Epipleminae, the largest group within Uraniidae (Lepidoptera, Macroheterocera, Geometroidea), comprises small, nocturnal moths primarily distributed in tropical regions. Taxonomic and molecular phylogenetic studies of Epipleminae have long been challenging, and this group remains genetically understudied, with no mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) reported to date, despite their wide utility in phylogenetic research. Here, we sequenced, assembled, and annotated the first complete mitogenomes of four epiplemine species: Dysaethria flavistriga (15,404 bp), Monobolodes prunaria (15,258 bp), Phazaca alikangensis (15,482 bp), and Warreniplema fumicosta (15,467 bp), using high-throughput sequencing technology. These mitogenomes exhibit typical gene arrangement of ditrysian Lepidoptera, along with distinctive features such as rare (TA)n microsatellite repeats in the 16S rRNA. Most protein-coding genes (PCGs) initiate with standard ATN start codons and terminate with TAA or a single T residue. Codon usage analysis revealed UUA (Leu2), AUU (Ile), UUU (Phe), AUA (Met), and AAU (Asn) as the five most frequently used codons. All tRNAs display canonical cloverleaf secondary structures, except for trnS1, which lacks the DHU arm. Comprehensive phylogenetic analyses that incorporated existing macroheteroceran mitogenomic data provided robust support for the placement of Epipleminae under Uraniidae, offered the first mitogenome-based evidence supporting the monophyly of Geometroidea on family level, and strongly supported a sister relationship between Geometroidea and Noctuoidea.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

On males of two poorly known Qianlingula species from China (Araneae, Pisauridae)
The males of Qianlingula jiafu Zhang, Zhu & Song, 2004 and Q. turbinata Zhang, Zhu & Song, 2004 are described here for the first time. Detailed descriptions and color photographs of two species are provided, along with a distribution map of all three Qianlingula species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Parasesarma (Brachyura, Sesarmidae) from Western Australia, with a key to the species from Australia
Nine species of Parasesarma are currently recorded from continental Australian mangroves. The present study describes a new species, P. otiense sp. nov., from Western Australia. Parasesarma otiense sp. nov. occurs sympatrically with P. hartogi and P. holthuisi in the mangroves of Exmouth Gulf. In both COX1 and 16S BI trees, the new species is well nested within Parasesarma, but divergent from other species. Morphologically, the new species is distinct from other Parasesarma in having eight asymmetric tubercles with the distal slope longer than the proximal slope on the upper surface of the cheliped dactylus. Parasesarma otiense is the tenth species of Parasesarma recorded from continental Australia, taking the number of species assigned to the genus Parasesarma to 59. A key to the species of Parasesarma known from Australian waters is provided to aid in their identification.
["Crustacea"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Euroscaptor darwini sp. nov., a new species of mole (Mammalia, Eulipotyphla, Talpidae) from the north-central mountains in Vietnam
A new species of fossorial mole (Eulipotyphla, Talpidae, Euroscaptor) is described from Pu Luong Nature Reserve, north-central Vietnam, based on distinct genetic and morphological characteristics. The species inhabits a geographically small and isolated upland patch (900–1100 m a.s.l.), sharply bounded by a nearly vertical escarpment. The new taxon is diagnosed by an extremely reduced tail both externally and osteologically, comprising only six or seven caudal vertebrae, the lowest number documented in the genus to date. The species differs further from known congeners in Southeast Asia by its slender cranium, narrow rostrum, elongated inner zygomatic arches, and significantly smaller anterior dentition. Phylogenetic analyses of the mitochondrial Cyt b gene indicate genetic distances of 5.41–6.35% from its closest relative, E. subanura, and clarify the evolutionary placement of the species within the genus. Multivariate analyses of 36 craniodental measurements identified key variables contributing to interspecific differentiation among Vietnamese moles, including breadth between infraorbital foramina, length of zygomatic arch, upper incisor–canine length, premolars length, and lower incisor–canine length. Specimens from the type locality show that females are larger than males. The discovery of this new Euroscaptor species currently raises the total number of recognized species in the genus to eleven worldwide and brings the number of fossorial mole species recorded in Vietnam to six. It highlights both the underestimated mammalian diversity of Vietnam and the importance of continued integrative surveys in montane landscapes, where micro-endemic and evolutionarily distinct taxa remain insufficiently documented and vulnerable to environmental change.
["Annamite Range"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A survey of the spider genus Lipocrea Thorell, 1878 (Araneae, Araneidae) from Guiyang City, Southwest China: An integrated morphological and molecular approach
A survey was undertaken to study the spider genus Lipocrea Thorell, 1878, from Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, southwest China. A total of two species is here addressed based on morphology and five methods of molecular species delimitation, comprising L. guiyang J. Zhang, Yu & Mi, sp. nov. and L. fusiformis (Thorell, 1877), the type species of the genus as well as a new record for mainland China. These two species are distributed in Huaxi District and Kaiyang County of Guiyang, respectively, providing the first formal record of this genus from mainland China.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The Bolboceratidae, Geotrupidae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea), and Scarabaeinae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea, Scarabaeidae) fauna of Honduras: Taxonomy and distribution
A biodiversity and distribution analysis of the beetle families Bolboceratidae and Geotrupidae, and the subfamily Scarabaeinae (Scarabaeidae) of Honduras is presented for the first time. The checklist contains 98 species: two Bolboceratidae, one Geotrupidae, and 95 Scarabaeinae. The fauna of Honduras includes two genera of Bolboceratidae, one genus of Geotrupidae, and 22 of Scarabaeinae. Onthophagus is the most speciose genus, with 21 species, followed by Canthon (10 species) and Copris (9 species). Valid names and synonyms are provided. First country records, notes on presently recognized species, distribution maps, and biodiversity comparisons are included, and nomenclatural problems associated with species in question are discussed. Phanaeus lempira Kohlmann, Solís and Rivera, sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) is described as a new species. Canthon sallei Harold, 1863 and Canthon spinosus Harold, 1863 are reinstated as valid species. Canthon cyanellus LeConte, 1859 does not contain any subspecies. Two new synonymies are established: Canthon cyanellus violetae Halffter, 1961, syn. nov. of Canthon sallei Harold, 1863; Canthon speciosus Harold, 1868, syn. nov. of Canthon spinosus Harold, 1863.
["Central America"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Taxonomic notes on the crab-spider genera Nyctimus Thorell, 1877 and Zametopina Simon, 1909 (Araneae, Thomisidae) with descriptions of six new species from Southeast Asia
The crab-spider genera Zametopina Simon, 1909 and Nyctimus Thorell, 1877 remain poorly studied, with significant gaps in their taxonomic understanding. Nyctimus has seen little study since its original description, and species assignments remain uncertain due to a lack of modern diagnostic data. By contrast, Zametopina, historically monotypic, was recently expanded with a second species (Z. wanliae Lin & Li, 2023) following a redescription of the type species, Z. calceata Simon, 1909. Our study presents a review of these genera, primarily based on specimens collected from tropical Asia by the late Christa L. Deeleman-Reinhold as well as from the EFForTS project in the lowlands of Sumatra, Indonesia. The review includes the description of the following six new species: Nyctimus falcatus Benjamin & Dhiya’ulhaq, sp. nov. (♂), Nyctimus kinabaluensis Benjamin & Dhiya’ulhaq, sp. nov. (♂♀), Nyctimus mutilloides Benjamin & Dhiya’ulhaq, sp. nov. (♂), Nyctimus quadripunctatus Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, sp. nov. (♂♀), Nyctimus rendang Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, sp. nov. (♂♀), and Nyctimus saksang Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, sp. nov. (♂). Nyctimus bistriatus Thorell, 1877 is redescribed and new locality records are provided. Zametopina wanliae is recorded for the first time outside of Vietnam. Further, updated species descriptions of Nyctimus and Zametopina are provided, along with taxonomic clarifications of the genera. This study emphasises the fundamental importance of well-curated, historical collections and ongoing fieldwork in resolving the systematics of lesser-known arachnid lineages.
["Arachnida"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

A new cave-dwelling species of Trimma (Teleostei, Gobiidae) from the Red Sea, with notes on Red Sea endemism in Trimma spp.
A new species of the gobiid genus Trimma is described from the Farasan Banks in the southeastern Red Sea. The new species is characterized by having a predorsal midline with 7–8 scales, the fifth pelvic-fin ray unbranched, cheek and opercle scaleless, all pectoral-fin rays unbranched, and a dorsal fin VI + I,7, without elongate spines. In life, the species is bright yellow throughout, with a distinctive yellow-green longitudinal band in the central third of the dorsal fins. The new species inhabits caves on exposed offshore reefs at depths between 15 and 30 m where it occurs in small groups of up to 10 individuals. The new species appears to be sister to T. winchi from the western Indian Ocean. We also present a multilocus phylogeny (COI, 16S, Ptr, S7I1), including all known Red Sea Trimma and 21 non-Red Sea species, and an expanded supermatrix tree with 93 species to place Red Sea endemism in broader context. This brings the total number of Trimma species known from the Red Sea to 10, with eight appearing to be endemic to the region. The high proportion of endemism in the genus is noteworthy, even for the Red Sea, which has one of the highest proportions of endemic reef fishes in the Indo-Pacific. Moreover, K2P distances in the two widespread species suggest they may also represent cryptic endemic species, but further analyses are needed. The new species is currently known only from the Farasan Banks region despite extensive sampling along the Saudi Arabian Red Sea coast.

Sillago persica sp. nov., a new sillaginid (Perciformes, Sillaginidae) from the Persian Gulf
A new species of sillaginid fish, Sillago persica sp. nov., is described from 30 specimens collected along the southern coast of the Persian Gulf (Busher), Iran. Morphological comparisons with 15 congeneric species, including members of the S. sihama complex, show that S. persica closely resembles S. sihama in meristic counts and coloration but is clearly distinguished by a unique swim bladder morphology. The posterior sub-extensions of the anterolateral swim bladder extensions in S. persica display a complex structure comprising five broad extensions connected to the swim bladder body, a feature absent in S. sihama and other sillaginids. Additional diagnostic characters include distinct meristic, morphometric, and coloration traits. Molecular analyses of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences corroborate this species’ distinctiveness, with phylogenetic reconstruction placing S. persica haplotypes and a previously recognized G5 clade haplotype of the S. sihama complex in a strongly supported monophyletic clade sister to S. indica and S. suezensis. Intraspecific genetic divergence within haplotypes of silaginid species and clades of S. sihma ranged from 0.00 to 0.01 (K2P). The S. persica haplotypes matched the G5 clade of S. sihama (0.01, K2P distance) whereas it exhibited 0.18–0.24 K2P divergence from haplotypes of other sillaginid species and clades of the S. sihama complex. A detailed morphological description is provided along with diagnostic illustrations.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

First morphological description of the larval stages of three Microtendipes species (Diptera, Chironomidae) from South China with molecular confirmation
This study presents the first integrated morphological and molecular characterization of larvae from three Microtendipes species, Microtendipes baishanzuensis Song & Qi, 2023, Microtendipes robustus Song & Qi, 2023 and Microtendipes tuberosus Qi & Wang, 2006, collected from subtropical streams in China, providing important insights for advancing Chironomidae taxonomy. Using detailed morphometric analysis (head capsule ratios, mandibular pecten length, and striae counts) in conjunction with mitochondrial COI barcoding, we established larval–adult associations and differentiated these species from their congeners. Microtendipes baishanzuensis is characterized by a brownish head capsule with distinctly paler median teeth compared to the lateral teeth, the longest mandibular pecten within the genus, the highest number of body striae, and an exceptionally anteriorly positioned ring organ. Microtendipes robustus is distinguished by a uniformly dark brown mentum, remarkably wide ventromental plates, the most variable striae count, and a medium-sized mandibular pecten. Microtendipes tuberosus exhibits a uniformly dark brown mentum with median teeth conspicuously shorter than the second lateral teeth, the smallest body size in the genus, the shortest mandibular pecten, the fewest striae, and the most posteriorly located ring organ. A revised larval key for Chinese Microtendipes is presented, improving freshwater biomonitoring and addressing challenges associated with cryptic diversity.
["DNA barcodes"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of the genus Acherontiella (Collembola, Hypogastruridae) from caves of the Alborz and Kopet Dagh mountains in Iran
Two new subterranean species of the genus Acherontiella Absolon, 1913 from Iran are described, illustrated, and morphologically differentiated from similar species. Acherontiella nezamdoosti sp. nov. has larger distribution range covering caves of North Khorasan, Razavi Khorasan, and Tehran provinces, while A. palaciosi sp. nov. is probably restricted to Moghan Cave in Razavi Khorasan province. Both new species are characterized by absence of eyes, PAO, empodium, furca, and retinaculum. Acherontiella nezamdoosti sp. nov. is distinguished from other species by having two small anal spines, Th II–III with setae m1, m4, and m5, and four thickened anterior setae on the labrum. Acherontiella palaciosi sp. nov. is characterized by bearing two medial setae in the anterior row of the labrum thickened into spines and apically dentate, and by the absence of setae m3 on Th I and p3 on Th II–III. An updated key and a table summarizing diagnostic characters of world species of the genus Acherontiella are provided.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

First record of the subfamily Geracinae Brindle, 1971 and genus Pseudovostox Borelli, 1926 (Dermaptera, Spongiphoridae) in China, with a description of a new species
The subfamily Geracinae Brindle, 1971, and the genus Pseudovostox Borelli, 1926, are recorded for the first time from China. These new records were confirmed by collections from Guiyang City in Guizhou Province, located in southwestern China. Pseudovostox guizhouensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on specimens from this region. Although the new species closely resembles the Oriental species Pseudovostox fasciatus (de Bormans, 1894), it can be distinguished by a combination of unique morphological characters. An updated key and distribution map for Pseudovostox species are provided to aid future research and species identification.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Aextoxicola pilolcurensis, a new genus and species of false skin beetles (Coleoptera, Biphyllidae) from the Chilean Valdivian rainforest
Aextoxicola Tello & Tello-Arriagada, gen. nov., with its type species Aextoxicola pilolcurensis Tello & Tello-Arriagada, sp. nov., a new South American genus and species of the family Biphyllidae, are described from the Valdivian rainforest in Chile. The morphological characters are illustrated and compared with morphologically similar extant and extinct genera. Finally, a key for genera of Biphyllidae recorded in Chile is provided.
["Cucujiformia"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Two new species of Dolichurus Latreille (Hymenoptera, Ampulicidae) from China, with a key to species of the genus
Two new species of Dolichurus Latreille, 1809, namely D. albipedigerus Bai & Li, sp. nov. and D. nigrilamellatus Bai & Li, sp. nov. are described from China (Yunnan, Guangdong and Jiangxi Provinces). Dolichurus albipedigerus Bai & Li, sp. nov. is similar to D. apiciornatus Tsuneki, 1977, but differs in having the mandible ivory white medially, the clypeus with a weak median carina, and the body with ivory-white spots. Dolichurus nigrilamellatus Bai & Li, sp. nov. is similar to D. aposanus Tsuneki et al., 1992, but differs in having the frons with dense rugae converging toward the midline above the lamella, the sternaulus conspicuous, and the posterior margin of T1-T3 without tiny puncture-rows medially. Additionally, a key to the Chinese species of Dolichurus is provided.
["Cockroach wasps"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Three new species of Velia (Cesavelia) Koçak & Kemal, 2010 (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Veliidae) from China
Velia (Cesavelia) lii sp. nov. and Velia (Cesavelia) motuoensis sp. nov. from Xizang Province, China, as well as Velia (Cesavelia) yiliangensis sp. nov. from Yunnan Province, China, are described. Photographs illustrating the habitus in dorsal and lateral views, male metafemora, genitalic structures, and habitats, as well as a key to the species of Velia (Cesavelia) are provided, along with an updated distribution map of the subgenus.
["Hengduan Mountains"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

Niphargus Schiödte, 1849 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Niphargidae) is a new component of the biotic community in the deep pebble beach habitats of the northern Black Sea region
A new species of the genus Niphargus Schiödte, 1849 (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Niphargidae) is described from the deep pebble beach interstitial habitats along the northern Black Sea coastline, revealing a new type of environment for this amphipod genus and providing new insight into the diversity of this unusual biotope. Niphargus primoricus sp. nov. belongs to “stygius–longicaudatus” species group corresponds to a distinct phylogenetic lineage, recently called “tarkhankuticus” ingroup (clade), which currently includes several species from the coastal areas of the Black Sea (Crimean Peninsula, southern Caucasus, and northern coast of the Republic of Türkiye [Turkey]). Molecular genetic analysis revealed that the speciation within this ingroup started in the Pliocene, approximately 5.76–3.6 Mya, and correlated with the Black Sea transgression. The divergence of the “tarkhankuticus” clade from the related European congeners probably occurred in the Late Miocene (~ 11–10 Mya), and is likely related to the separation of the Paratethys into different basins (Euxinian, Alpine and Pannonian). The new species has a wide distribution, currently inhabiting nearly 190 kilometers along the Black Sea coastline, from Gelendzhik to Khosta, and is characterized by a low level of genetic divergence between populations. The deep pebble interstitial coastal biotopes in the area are also inhabited by specific gammarid amphipods, for example, Dursogammarus dromaderus Marin & Palatov, 2022 and Litorogammarus dursi Marin, Palatov & Copilaş-Ciocianu, 2023 (Amphipoda: Gammaridae), whose biology has not been studied, and it is unknown how they spread along the coastline.
["Barcoding"]
["Marine and environmental studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new species of the genus Hebius (Squamata, Natricidae), previously confused with H. boulengeri (Gressitt, 1937)
A new species of the genus Hebius is described from Yunnan Province, China. The new species was previously identified as H. boulengeri, but it can be separated from H. boulengeri and other species of this genus by a combination of the following characters: 19-19-17 dorsal scale rows, 148–155 ventrals, 90–105 subcaudals, one preocular, three postoculars, 23–25 maxillary teeth, a distinct continuous white streak from posteroventral margin of eye extending backward and upward to nape to connect with dorsolateral stripe on each side, and white venter. The genetic divergence between the new species and H. boulengeri was 6.6% and the genetic divergences between the new species and other congeners ranged from 6.8% to 15.9% in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene.
["Keelback snake"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

New species of the Brachyglutine genus Panabachia Park (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from Ecuador
Twenty-two new species of Panabachia Park (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae: Brachyglutini: Brachyglutina), are described from montane forest and páramo habitats of Ecuador: Panabachia pahuma sp. nov., P. trifecta sp. nov., P. inornata sp. nov., P. amica sp. nov., P. winku sp. nov., P. ayauma sp. nov., P. pastazae sp. nov., P. romeroi sp. nov., P. uktu sp. nov., P. salebrosa sp. nov., P. urbana sp. nov., P. carltoni sp. nov., P. falini sp. nov., P. papallacta sp. nov., P. ananay sp. nov., P. cayambi sp. nov., P. cryptica sp. nov., P. caranqui sp. nov., P. patera sp. nov., P. vigilans sp. nov., P. perdita sp. nov., and P. ambulans sp. nov. Only two species of the genus have been previously described, from Panamanian and Guatemalan lowlands. But, based on unpublished records, the genus is now known to occur from Mexico to Bolivia, and includes several additional undescribed species. These new species exhibit important variability in the diversity in male secondary sexual characters. Images of the habitus, key characters and aedeagus are provided for the new species.
["Ecuador"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Diversity of spiders in Daba Mountain National Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China (II): Two new species of Hahniidae (Arachnida, Araneae)
Two new species of Hahniidae, Hahnia dabashan Cai, Wang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂) and Sinahahnia chengkou Cai, Wang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), are described and illustrated with photographs and drawings, based on material from Daba Mountain National Nature Reserve in Chongqing, southwestern China.
["Comb-tailed spiders"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Amazoboea, a new genus of Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from western Amazonia
We describe a new monotypic genus of Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Banchinae) from the Yasuní region, Ecuador: Amazoboea gen. nov. is described to accommodate A. selva sp. nov. The new genus was discovered from samples collected by canopy fogging in lowland rainforest. Amazoboea is placed in the tribe Atrophini where it is morphologically very distinctive and easily separated from all other banchine genera. Through the description of Amazoboea, we aim to draw attention to the considerable, yet little-known and threatened, fauna of Amazonian Darwin wasps.
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New contribution to the leafhopper genus Thapaia (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae), with the description of a new species from China
Thapaia malingensis Yuan & Song, sp. nov., a new species of Erythroneurini (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae) from Maling River Canyon in Xingyi, China, is described and illustrated. A revised description of the genus is also provided, and a key to males of all species worldwide is given.
["Erythroneurini"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Description of two new species of Psilochasmus Lühe, 1909 (Digenea, Psilostomidae), with remarks on the diversity of the genus and a key to its species
Psilochasmus Lühe, 1909 is a small genus of psilostomid digeneans parasitic in birds and characterized by the presence of a retractable tail-like structure at the posterior end of the body. Despite its low diversity, the taxonomic history of the genus is tumultuous, with opinions varying from recognizing only a single species to 11 nominal species. In this study, newly generated and previously available sequences of nuclear ribosomal DNA operon (ITS1+5.8S+ITS2; 28S) and partial NADH dehydrogenase (nad1) mtDNA gene sequences of Psilochasmus spp. from Europe (Palearctic), North America (Nearctic) and South America (Neotropics) were used to assess the diversity of Psilochasmus spp. and explore the phylogenetic interrelationships among members of genus and to distinguish between species. Based on combined morphological and molecular data, descriptions of two new Psilochasmus species from Europe and North America, Psilochasmus slavaukrainii sp. nov. and Psilochasmus urbeni sp. nov., are provided, as well as the first morphological description of P. oxyurus specimens linked to DNA sequence data. In addition, a key to the identification of Psilochasmus spp. recognized as a result of this study has been constructed.
["Molecular phylogeny"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Unlocking Mediterranean bryozoan diversity: seven new species unveiled after fixing a neotype for Fenestrulina malusii (Audouin & Savigny, 1826) (Cheilostomatida, Fenestrulinidae)
Fenestrulina malusii (Audouin & Savigny), the type species of Fenestrulina Jullien, is among the most widely reported bryozoans globally. Following the loss of the original type material, presumed Mediterranean in origin based on Savigny’s depiction on Sargassum, we designate a neotype from a colony on deep Laminaria blades off Ustica Island (Tyrrhenian Sea). Additionally, seven new species are described from various habitats across the Mediterranean: F. cavernicola sp. nov., from the semi-dark and dark zones of a submarine cave in Lesvos Island (NE Aegean Sea); F. communis sp. nov., from beach-cast plastic near Palermo (NW Sicily); F. foveolata sp. nov., from Ile-Rousse Bank (Corsica); F. granulosa sp. nov., from Posidonia meadows in Dhiaporia (Chios Island, Aegean Sea); F. kalliste sp. nov., from outer-shelf coarse sediments off Calvi (NW Corsica); F. ovata sp. nov., from Trémies submarine cave, near Marseille (Gulf of Lion); and F. variorugosa sp. nov., from Posidonia rootlets off Formica Isle (Egadi Archipelago, near the Sicily Strait). Five of these species are currently known only from their type localities, while F. communis sp. nov. and F. variorugosa sp. nov. occur elsewhere. An additional species with distinct features is described but left in open nomenclature owing to the absence of an ovicell. A comprehensive review of the published images of the 77 species currently assigned to Fenestrulina, with the identification of new diagnostic features, including kenozooids, has led to a revised diagnosis of the genus.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new species of the genus Calamaria H. Boie in F. Boie, 1827 (Squamata, Calamariidae) from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China
A new species of reed snake, Calamaria synergis sp. nov., is described based on two specimens collected from Mountain Jinuo, Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a unique combination of morphological characters, including eight enlarged maxillary teeth; rostral higher than wide; prefrontal shorter than frontal and contacting the first two supralabials; mental not in contact with anterior chin shields; single preocular and postocular; four supralabials, with the 2nd and 3rd contacting the eye; five infralabials; five scales surrounding the paraparietal; ventrals 161–166; subcaudals 20–23, paired; dorsal scales reduced to six rows at the tail base and further to four rows near the terminal subcaudals; tail relatively short (6.6–9.2% of total length), abruptly tapering at the tip; dorsum blackish-brown with a distinct pale nuchal ring; two outermost dorsal scale rows pale khaki with upper margins darkened; ventral surface uniform pale khaki. Phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene places the new species as sister to C. andersoni and C. yunnanensis, from which it differs by an uncorrected p-distance of 8.7% and 7.9%, respectively. Calamaria synergis sp. nov. is currently known only from tropical evergreen forests of Xishuangbanna at elevations around 1,050 m asl. We propose its conservation status as Data Deficient (DD) following the IUCN Red List categories.
["Calamaria synergis sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Four new species of Linyphiidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from Hunan Province, China
Four new species of the spider family Linyphiidae Blackwall, 1859 are described from Hunan Province, southern China: Gongylidioides heimifengensis sp. nov. (♂♀), Gongylidium subbifurcatum sp. nov. (♀), Gongylidium trapezium sp. nov. (♀), and Nippononeta anchorata sp. nov. (♀). Detailed descriptions, photos of habitus and copulatory organs, as well as a distribution map, are provided.
["Erigoninae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Cyphocallipus africanus sp. nov.: first native callipodid millipede from continental Africa (Diplopoda, Callipodida)
The millipede Cyphocallipus africanus sp. nov. (Diplopoda, Callipodida) from Morocco is described, proving the occurrence of native species of the order Callipodida on the African continent. The only male specimen of the new species was discovered in the cave Maala Abladir near the village of Bab Taza in Rif Mountain Range in northern Morocco. The species differs morphologically from C. excavatus Verhoeff, 1909, known from southern Spain, by the specific shapes of the coxosternal processes, the protective lamella of the distal part of the telopodite, and the sternal lamella. In the light of the new finding, the opportunity is taken to revise the taxonomic position of the Iberian genera of Callipodida, hitherto grouped in the subfamily Cyphocallipodinae Verhoeff, 1909. The opinion expressed by other authors—that the Iberian genera are separate from the Balkan–Anatolian genus Dorypetalum Verhoeff, 1900—is confirmed, and a new status is proposed for the Iberian taxa as a separate family, Cyphocallipodidae stat. nov. The genus Cyphocallipus represents another example of a millipede genus with an Ibero-African distribution, together with genera such as Origmatogona Ribaut 1913, Ceratosphys Ribaut, 1920 (Chordeumatida), and Boreviulisoma Brolemann, 1928 (Polydesmida).
["Cave"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

A new horned toad of Boulenophrys (Anura, Megophryidae) was discovered in Hubei Province, China
The diversity of the genus Boulenophrys, with around 72 species identified so far, is still thought to be highly underestimated, as it contains a large number of undescribed cryptic species. The favorable ecological environment of the Dalaoling National Nature Reserve, located in Yichang City, Hubei Province, is home to many characteristic species. This work describes a new species from central China, namely: Boulenophrys dalaolingensis Wang, Chen & Liu, 2025, sp. nov. Morphologically, the new species is characterized by the combination of nine external characters: (1) medium-sized body (SVL 49.9–56.2 mm in seven males, SVL 50.3–60.0 mm in three females; (2) vomerine teeth absent; (3) margin of tongue smooth, with weakly notch behind; (4) relative finger length III>II=I>IV; (5) tibio-tarsal articulation of adpressed limb reaching posterior corner of the eye; and (6) toes with more than 1/4 web. Molecularly, the new species forms an independent clade with strong support in the phylogenetic trees of the genus based on two partial mitochondrial sequences: 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). Morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses suggest that it is a new species that has not been systematically described. Our work increases the number of species in the genus Boulenophrys to 73.
["Boulenophrys dalaolingensis sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A new species of Cyrtodactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Hon Tre Island in Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
A new species of the genus Cyrtodactylus is described from Khanh Hoa Province, South-central Vietnam based on genetic divergence and morphological differences. Cyrtodactylus arnei sp. nov. is distinguished from the remaining Indochinese bent–toed geckos of the Cyrtodactylus irregularis group by having the unique combination of the following characteristics: size medium (SVL 70.9–78.0 mm); dorsal tubercles in 15–17 irregular rows; 34 or 35 ventral scale rows; 12–15 enlarged femoral scales on each side, in continuous series without gap between precloacal and femoral scales; precloacal pores absent in females, 5–7 in males, in a continuous row; femoral pores absent; postcloacal spurs 0–3 on each side; 19–21 lamellae under toe IV; dorsal pattern between limb insertions consisting of four narrow light bands with dark edges and a transversal row of dark spots in the middle; subcaudal scales enlarged, forming broad transverse plates. In phylogenetic analyses, the new species was nested within the Cyrtodactylus irregularis group without any clear sister taxon. Genetically, Cyrtodactylus arnei sp. nov. is divergent from other species within the Cyrtodactylus irregularis group by at least 10.97% (COI) and 14.39% (ND2) based on two fragments of the mitochondrial gene.
["Cyrtodactylus arnei sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Revision of the genus Alulacris Zheng, 1981 (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Melanoplinae) with proposals of new synonyms
The genus Alulacris Zheng, 1981 is revised based on examination of type and non-type material of all known Alulacris species. As a result, two new junior synonyms are proposed: A. yanshanensis Mao et al., 2011, syn. nov. is synonymized with A. shilinensis (Zheng, 1977) and A. nigristriatis Zheng et al., 2013, syn. nov. is synonymized with Tonkinacris sinensis Chang, 1937. The morphology of A. shilinensis and T. sinensis are redescribed and illustrated. The reliability of quantitative traits for defining new species and the importance of the accurate generic assignment in determining new species are briefly discussed.
["Acrididae"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

New earthworms of the genus Pheretima (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) from Mount Bulusan, Sorsogon Province, Philippines
Three new species of the genus Pheretima are described from Mount Bulusan, Sorsogon Province, Luzon Island, Philippines: Pheretima bulusanensis sp. nov., Pheretima sorsogonensis sp. nov., and Pheretima blackbirdensis sp. nov. All are in the sangirensis-group of Sims and Easton (1972), which is characterized by having one pair of spermathecal pores in 7/8. The three new species have equatorial unpigmented stripes, the intestinal origin in XVI, spermathecae in VII, and with segmental setal counts all greater than 40. Pheretima bulusanensis sp. nov. has copulatory bursae openings 0.19–0.23 circumference apart and septa 8/9/10 present. Pheretima sorsogonensis sp. nov. has copulatory bursae openings 0.14 circumference apart and septa 8/9/10 absent. Pheretima blackbirdensis sp. nov. has copulatory bursae openings 0.17 circumference apart and septum 9/10 absent.
["Biodiversity survey"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Description of two new species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Nepal
Two new species of Cyrtodactylus from the khasiensis group are described using morphological characters supported by molecular analyses based on the mitochondrial ND2 gene. Cyrtodactylus makwanpurgadhiensis sp. nov. and C. chure sp. nov. from the Siwalik Mountains in central Nepal are at least 11.2% divergent from other Nepalese congeners and 16.7% from each other and can be distinguished by a combination of morphometric and meristic traits. The description of two new species from the Siwalik Mountains underscores the conservation significance of this region, a relatively young, dry, and geologically unstable range of the Himalayan orogen. Despite serving as a border between the lowland (Terai) and Himalayan range, it remains underrepresented in both biodiversity assessments and conservation planning in Nepal. Our findings suggest the need for a robust and targeted species research program and to prioritise this landscape for conservation actions.
["Bent-toed gecko"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new typical cavefish of the genus Triplophysa (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae) from the Jinsha River, Yunnan, China
Triplophysa baishuijiangensis sp. nov., a new cave-dwelling loach, was collected from an underground river outlet in Xiaoganxi Village, Yiliang County, Yunnan Province, China, situated within the core area of the Baishuijiang National Aquatic Germplasm Resources Reserve for Endemic Fish, part of the Hengjiang–Jinsha River system. The new species is distinguished from congeners by significant genetic divergence and the following combination of characteristics: vestigial eyes, absence of skin pigmentation, pelvic fin tip reaching the anus, complete lateral line, developed posterior chamber of the swim bladder, and dorsal fin rays iii-7. Phylogenetic analysis based on Cyt b positions this new species in the hypogean group of Triplophysa, increasing the documented cave species in the genus from 42 to 43. Triplophysa baishuijiangensis sp. nov. represents the first documented typical cavefish in the Jinsha River basin, underscoring the region’s ecological significance for subterranean adaptation and suggesting unexplored cave biodiversity that merits systematic investigation.
["Cavefish"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Dicranota Zetterstedt, 1838 crane flies (Diptera, Pediciidae) of Korea
Pediciinae crane flies belonging to the genus Dicranota Zetterstedt, 1838 of the Korean Peninsula were studied beginning in 1933, but only seven species have been recorded from North Korea so far; the genus was unknown from South Korea. Seventeen species were found during our studies on the Peninsula, three of them described as new: D. (Eudicranota) distincta Podenas, sp. nov., D. (Rhaphidolabis) seoi Podenas, sp. nov., D. (Rhaphidolabis) yeongokia Podenas, sp. nov. Ten new species are added to the Korean species list, five of them new for North Korea with total number reaching twelve, and eleven species new for South Korea. Habitat, elevation range, and seasonality data is presented for each species. Images of taxonomically important morphological characters, distribution maps, and an identification key for all Korean species of the genus Dicranota are presented.
["East Palaearctic"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A catalog of Cassidinae leaf beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) collection deposited in the Insect Collection of the College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, China
A catalog is presented of species of the subfamily Cassidinae (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) deposited in the Insect Collection of the College of Agriculture, Yangtze University in Jingzhou, Hubei, China. A complete list of all specimens for each species is provided, together with the label data. A total of 1,207 adult specimens of Cassidinae were examined, representing 53 species, 13 genera, and six tribes. Fourteen species are recorded in Hubei Province for the first time: Aspidomorpha (s. str.) transparipennis (Motschulsky, 1860), Basiprionota gressitti Medvedev, 1957, Callispa dimidiatipennis Baly, 1858, Cassida australica (Boheman, 1855), C. expansa Gressitt, 1952, C. juglans Gressitt, 1942, C. pallidicollis Boheman, 1856, C. postarcuata (Chen & Zia, 1964), C. quinaria (Chen & Zia, 1964), C. rati Maulik, 1923, C. sigillata (Gorham, 1885), Glyphocassis (Hebdomecosta) spilota (Gorham, 1885), Hispellinus chinensis Gressitt, 1950, and H. moerens (Baly, 1874). Five species are newly recorded from Chongqing: Aspidomorpha (s. str.) difformis (Motschulsky, 1860), Cassida sauteri (Spaeth, 1913), C. vespertina Boheman, 1862, Gly. (Hebdomecosta) spilota (Gorham, 1885), and Dactylispa chinensis Weise, 1905. Furthermore, Callispa almora Maulik, 1923 is new to Zhejiang Province, Platypria aliena Chen & Sun, 1962 is new to Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and Cassida rubiginosa Müller, 1776 is new to Sichuan Province.
["Hispine beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Rediscovery of a second species of Reed Beetle in Israel (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Donaciinae)
A species of reed beetle, Donacia simplex (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Donaciinae) was recently rediscovered in northern Israel. Now a second species, Donacia tomentosa, has been rediscovered (verified using molecular analysis) living further south in Israel. In 2021 a reed beetle expert discovered a very old record of Donacia tomentosa from modern day Israel in the collections of the Natural History Museum (London) from a few specimens collected near Tel Aviv by the British in 1918 during WWI. In 2022 the authors discovered a viable population of D. tomentosa in Israel. Given the extensive amount of collecting by many good field entomologists in that region since 1918, it is surprising that this species had not been seen for 104 years. The location, biology, molecular analysis, and other details of this newly found viable population of D. tomentosa in Israel are provided here.
["Conservation"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

First record of the genus Macrispa in China, with a redescription of Macrispa saundersii Baly, 1859 (Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae, Botryonopini)
The genus Macrispa Baly, 1859, previously known only from Southeast Asia and south of the Himalayas, has remained unrecorded in China until now. Here, we report the first discovery of Macrispa saundersii Baly, 1859 from Xizang Autonomous Region, China, representing a northward range extension for the genus. Through integrative examination of external morphology and male genitalia, we provide a comprehensive redescription of M. saundersii. High-resolution stacked imaging was employed to document key taxonomic characters, including elytral punctation patterns, stridulatory files, abdominal ventrite structures, and male genitalia.
["Beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Circumscription of the sclerolobii group of Amblycerus Thunberg (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Bruchinae) with descriptions of four new species and a revision of the species groups of the genus
The seed-beetle Amblycerus Thunberg, 1815 the second most diverse genus of Bruchinae (Chrysomelidae) in the Western Hemisphere, is organized into groups of species, as many others in the subfamily. The main objective of this work is to delimit the group sclerolobii, here established as composed by five described species, A. sclerolobii Ribeiro-Costa, 2000, A. kingsolveri Ribeiro-Costa, 1993, A. marinonii Ribeiro-Costa, 1993, A. manauara Ribeiro-Costa, 2000, A. tachigaliae Kingsolver, 1976 and four new species: A. biacutus Ribeiro-Costa, sp. nov., A. falcorostrus Ribeiro-Costa & Morse, sp. nov., A. morsei Ribeiro-Costa, sp. nov. (type localities: Brazil: Amazonas, Manaus) and A. truncatus Ribeiro-Costa, sp. nov. (type locality Brazil: Mato Grosso, Sinop). Therefore, including these new species 70 Brazilian species of Amblycerus were recorded. Amblycerus bicolor (Pic, 1927) previously considered to belong to this group is excluded and placed as incertae sedis. The sclerolobii group is distributed mainly in the Brazilian Amazonia biome, consuming Tachigali Aubl., Dinizia Ducke, and Stryphnodendron Mart. seeds (Fabaceae). Diagnoses are presented for this group and for ten species (including A. bicolor), and descriptions for the four new ones, an identification key for the nine species, colored photographs of external morphology, and detailed male genitalia illustrations for all the species studied. Due mainly to previously broad contributions on the taxonomy of Amblycerus that resulted in many species groups, we also present a revised study of this intrageneric taxonomic level. From 37 species groups now we update to 32 groups with a total of 96 species assigned to them. Finally, a detailed systematic study of some specific groups is also suggested before mergence.
["Amblycerina"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

The genus Euphitrea Baly, 1875 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticitae) in Taiwan, with description of three new species
Three previously described species of Euphitrea from Taiwan are recognized and redescribed: E. flavicornis (Chen, 1933), E. nisotroides (Chen, 1933), and E. taiwana Kimoto, 1991. Additionally, three new species from Taiwan are described: E. tsoui sp. nov., E. houjayi sp. nov., and E. jungchani sp. nov. The species descriptions include illustrations of aedeagi, antennae, gonocoxae, abdominal ventrite VIII, and spermathecae. Lectotypes are designated for Neorthaea flavicornis Chen, 1933 and N. nisotroides Chen, 1933.
["Asteraceae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Tuberstira pennis (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Lagriinae), a bizarre new genus and species from South China
Tuberstira pennis gen. et sp. nov., a new genus and species within the tribe Lagriini, subtribe Statirina, is described from Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan and Hainan, China. The genus is readily distinguished from all known Lagriini genera by: large eyes, nearly contiguous on the ventral surface; centrally elevated pronotal disc; corrugated elytra, with setigerous tubercles in intervals; coarsely punctate femora; and transversely expanded aedeagal apex in lateral view. The habitus, male genitalia, female genital tube, ovipositor and key diagnostic features are illustrated.
["Lagriini"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Taxonomic reassessment of the Lycodon rufozonatus species complex (Serpentes, Colubridae), with re-evaluation of Dinodon rufozonatum walli, and description of a new species from north-central Vietnam
The Red-banded Wolf Snake, Lycodon rufozonatus Cantor, 1842 has a complex taxonomic history. In this study, an integrative taxonomic approach is applied, incorporating morphological analyses, cytochrome b mitochondrial gene sequencing, and a re-examination of available type material to clarify the longstanding taxonomic uncertainties within Lycodon rufozonatus species complex. Our findings restrict the distribution of Lycodon rufozonatus to mainland China, Taiwan, the Korean Peninsula, Russia (southern Primorsky Krai), Japan (Tsushima Islands, Nagasaki), and northeastern Vietnam. Additionally, Dinodon rufozonatum walli Stejneger, 1907, previously considered a subspecies, is elevated to full species status as Lycodon walli stat. nov., endemic to the Miyako and Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa, Japan. Furthermore, a new cryptic species is described from north-central Vietnam, Lycodon duytan sp. nov., which is distinguished from L. rufozonatus and L. walli stat. nov. by differences in body scalation, colouration, and the number of keeled dorsal scales. Our findings highlight the underestimated diversity within Lycodon and contribute to a more refined understanding of its taxonomy. This study increases the total number of recognised Lycodon species to 78, underscoring the importance of integrative approaches in resolving taxonomic complexities within the genus.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Discovery of Laophontidae (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from marine plastic debris: Pseudonychocamptus setadefectus sp. nov. and Heterolaophonte discophora (Willey, 1929)
Two species belonging to the family Laophontidae Scott T., 1905 were identified among harpacticoid copepods collected from marine plastic debris (MPD) stranded along the Korean coastline. These species were assigned to the genera Pseudonychocamptus Lang, 1944 and Heterolaophonte Lang, 1948. Pseudonychocamptus setadefectus sp. nov. conforms to the generic diagnosis, displaying sexual dimorphism in the armature of the swimming legs. It is distinguished from its six congeners by possessing only two endites on the maxillary syncoxa, notably lacking the proximal endite bearing the seta that is present in all other known species within the genus. Although most morphologically similar to P. colomboi Ceccherelli, 1988, the new species differs in several key characteristics, including the number of setae on the maxillary endopod, the relative length ratios of setae on the female P5 exopod, the presence of an inner seta on the male P5 exopod, and the asymmetry of the male P6. The second species, Heterolaophonte discophora (Willey, 1929), was previously reported from the Atlantic coast of Canada and the Pacific coasts of the USA and Japan. The Korean specimens closely correspond to these previous records, yet exhibit intraspecific variation, particularly in the setal count on the female P3 enp-2. Additional morphological differences were also observed, including variations in the segmentation of the male P3 endopod and in the number of setae on the maxillary endopod. Based on the sexually dimorphic traits observed in males, we propose the subdivision of the genus Heterolaophonte into four distinct species groups. The discovery of P. setadefectus sp. nov. and H. discophora on anthropogenic MPD underscores the potential role of such substrates as microhabitats for benthic harpacticoid copepods.
["Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Microplastics and Plastic Pollution", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Review of the millipede genus Orthomorpha Bollman, 1893 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae) in Cambodia, with new records and descriptions of three new species
The Southeast Asian millipede genus Orthomorpha Bollman, 1893 currently encompasses 59 accepted species, including three newly described from Cambodia: Orthomorpha tergoaurantia Likhitrakarn, sp. nov., Orthomorpha efefai Likhitrakarn, sp. nov., and Orthomorpha battambangiensis Likhitrakarn, sp. nov. The new species are described based on distinctive morphological traits, with particular emphasis on gonopodal features. Species descriptions are accompanied by detailed illustrations and scanning electron micrographs (SEM) of the gonopods. An updated identification key to the known Orthomorpha species from Cambodia is also provided.
["Asiomorpha"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Monstrilloid copepods (Crustacea, Copepoda) in the U.S. National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution: updated redescriptions of Mexican species of Monstrilla Dana
The species of monstrilloid copepods (Monstrilloida: Copepoda: Crustacea) from Mexico that were deposited by the author in the collections of the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution in the 1990s are redescribed based on updated descriptive standards. This study includes the re-examination and redescription of type specimens of several species of Monstrilla Dana, 1849. The redescriptions were prepared following currently used standards that were set after these species were described. This revision reveals previously unnoticed characters that improve the morphological details of these species; new comparisons of some of these species are also provided. This work will allow a more complete and accurate analysis of these Mexican species.
["Copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Toxins and Detection Methods", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology"]

Taxonomic corrections, new records, and life history information on the jumping tree bugs (Hemiptera, Miridae, Isometopinae) of Korea
The identities of two species of Korean Isometopinae (Hemiptera: Miridae) are clarified based on examination of their type material. The following new synonyms are proposed: Isometopus amurensis Kerzhner, 1988 = Isometopus jejuensis Kim & Jung, 2016, syn. nov. and Myiomma ussuriense Ostapenko, 2001 = Myiomma koreanum Oh & Lee, 2025, syn. nov. Isometopus citri Ren, 1987 is reported from Korea for the first time. Life histories of I. amurensis Kerzhner, I. japonicus Hasegawa, 1946, and I. rugiceps Kerzhner, 1988 are documented based on Korean individuals.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

Two new species and a new record of the genus Nephrotoma Meigen, 1803 (Diptera, Tipulidae) from Northwest China, with a key to species in the region
This study describes two new species of the genus Nephrotoma Meigen, 1803 from Northwest China, N. furvligulata sp. nov. and N. palacea sp. nov., with full descriptions and illustrations. It also records N. lunulicornis (Schummel, 1833) for the first time in China. Updated descriptions and illustrations are also provided for three previously known species, N. geniculata Yang & Yang, 1987, N. joneensis Yang & Yang, 1990, and N. ligulata Alexander, 1925, incorporating new morphological details. An identification key to all Nephrotoma species currently recorded in Northwest China is included to facilitate further research.

Polynema (Polynema) Haliday (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae) of Xinjiang: descriptions of three new species, with eleven new records from China
Species of the nominate subgenus of Polynema Haliday (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae) in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China are reviewed. Three new taxa are described, P. (Polynema) breviscapus Wang & Aishan, sp. nov., P. (Polynema) gongliuense Sharengaowa & Aishan, sp. nov., and P. (Polynema) haloxyloniae Sharengaowa & Aishan, sp. nov. Eight species are newly recorded from China: P. (Polynema) antoniae (Soyka, 1950); P. (Polynema) atrosimile Soyka, 1956; P. (Polynema) bakkendorfi Hincks, 1950; P. (Polynema) bischoffi (Soyka, 1950); P. (Polynema) capillatum Soyka, 1956; P. (Polynema) elongatum Soyka, 1956; P. (Polynema) fumipenne Walker, 1846; and P. (Polynema) pusillum Haliday, 1833. Three additional species are tentatively identified: P. (Polynema) ? elegantissimum Soyka, 1956; P. (Polynema) ? gracile (Nees, 1834); and P. (Polynema) ? neofuscipes (Soyka, 1946). A key to the species of P. (Polynema) from Xinjiang, China is provided.
["Central Palearctic region"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Revision of the Chinese species of the genera Genimen and Genimenoides (Orthoptera, Acrididae)
Based on an examination of types and additional materials, Chinese species in the genera Genimen and Genimenoides were reviewed. As a result of our study, Genimen burmanum Ramme, 1941 was shown not to occur in China, the species Genimen zhengi Mao, Ren & Ou, 2010, syn. nov. was synonymized under Genimen yunnanensis Zheng, Huang & Liu, 1988, and Genimenoides vittatum Mao, Ren & Ou, 2010 was transferred to Genimen, as the new combination Genimen vittatum (Mao, Ren & Ou, 2010), comb. nov. An updated species key for Genimen is provided.
["Grasshoppers"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

New insights into the phylogeny of Tetrigoidea (Insecta, Orthoptera), with the announcement of the first mitogenome of the genus Phaesticus
The mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) has been widely used to infer the phylogeny, origin and evolution of insects. Although mitogenomic data have been used to study the phylogenetic relationships of Tetrigoidea (Orthoptera), larger sample sizes were also essential to explore the detailed phylogenetic relationships of these taxa. In this study, two complete mitogenomic sequences were sequenced from Phaesticus moniliantennatus (formerly Flatocerus daqingshanensis and F. nankunshanensis). The mitogenome sequences were assembled, annotated and analyzed. The length of the mitogenomes was 16,147 and 16,224 bp, and the nucleotide composition was A>T>C>G, A-skew and C-skew. Large intergenic regions between trnS(ucn) and ND1 were identified with a length of 191–233 bp. Phylogenetic analyses showed that Batrachideinae formed the basal position of Tetrigoidea, followed by Tripetalocerinae. The monophyly of several subfamilies was not supported. Within Tetriginae, P. moniliantennatus clustered with a clade containing Systolederus spicupennis, S. hainanensis and S. zhengi (Metrodorinae), indicating their closer phylogenetic relationship. The divergence time results indicated that Batrachideinae diverged at 170.96 Ma and Tripetalocerinae diverged at 149.36 Ma. And the divergence time between P. moniliantennatus and the closely related Systolederus clade was 87.06 Ma. These results represent the available mitogenome sequences of the genus Phaesticus and provide a valuable data resource for reconstructing phylogenetic relationships and studying the differentiation of Tetrigoidea species.
["Caelifera"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Review of the sequester group of Pteromalus Swederus, 1795 (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae) with description of three new species
Palaearctic species of the sequester group of Pteromalus Swederus, 1795 are reviewed. Three new species, P. boleensis Yan, Li & Tselikh, sp. nov. (Kazakhstan, China), P. longipedicellus Yan, Li & Tselikh, sp. nov. (China) and P. oscolensis Tselikh, sp. nov. (Russia, China) are described and illustrated. Types of P. cionobia (Erdös, 1953) and P. sequester Walker, 1835 are redescribed. An identification key to females of the sequester group of Pteromalus is given.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Diploderma Hallowell, 1861 (Squamata, Agamidae) discovered in the upper Dadu River valley of the Hengduan Mountains, Sichuan, China
A new species of the genus Diploderma is described from the upper Dadu River Valley in the Hengduan mountains of Sichuan Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial ND2 gene revealed that the new species, Diploderma bifluviale sp. nov., forms a distinct lineage within the Diploderma flaviceps group with an uncorrected genetic distance of ≥3.88%. Morphologically, the new species differs from its congeners by a combination of characters, including a shorter snout-vent length (SVL 62.51–72.55 mm), a shorter tail (TAL/SVL ratio 1.37–1.56), concealed tympanum, absence of a gular spot, and lemon-chiffon dorsolateral stripes with serrated edges in males. Additionally, Diploderma bifluviale sp. nov. exhibits unique coloration traits such as a wheat-colored tongue and the fourth toe with claw reaching either the tympanum or the area between shoulder and tympanum when hind limbs adpressed forward. The species inhabits semi-arid shrublands in warm-dry valleys at elevations of 2,187–2,525 m – a habitat that is distinct from those of its closest relatives. This discovery highlights the understudied biodiversity of the upper Dadu River. Diploderma bifluviale sp. nov. represents the 49th species of the genus and expands our understanding of morphological and ecological diversity within the D. flaviceps group.
["Agamidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Three new species of Theridiidae Sundevall, 1833 (Araneae) from Xizang, China
Three new species belonging to the spider family Theridiidae are described based on materials collected from Xizang Autonomous Region, Southwestern China: Moneta linzhi Gan, Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♀♂), M. yinae Gan, Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♀♂) and Phoroncidia cibagou Gan, Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♀♂). Diagnostic photos of the habitus and copulatory organs, and a distribution map are provided.
["Cob-web spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Integrative taxonomy and phylogenetic analyses of two Ceratomyxa species (Myxozoa, Ceratomyxidae) from the China Sea, including a new species description
Two species of Ceratomyxa (Myxozoa: Ceratomyxidae) from teleosts in the China Sea are investigated using an integrative approach which combines morphological characteristcs, parasitic traits, and molecular data including small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions. A novel species, Ceratomyxa dactyloptena sp. nov., was identified from the gallbladder of Oriental flying gurnard Dactyloptena orientalis Cuvier, 1829, while Ceratomyxa siganicola Zhang, Zhao, Yang & Yang, 2019 was found in the gallbladder of Mottled spinefoot Siganus fuscescens Houttuyn, 1782 and Mozambique tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus Peters, 1852. Mature myxospores of C. dactyloptena sp. nov. exhibit a crescent shape in sutural view, with dimensions of 30.0 ± 1.3 (27.2–32.8) µm in thickness, 6.4 ± 0.4 (5.7–7.0) µm in length, and a posterior angle of 152.9 ± 3.7° (146.2–158.9°). Pyriform polar capsules measured 2.9 ± 0.3 (2.3–3.3) µm long and 2.4 ± 0.3 (1.7–2.8) µm wide, with polar filaments coiled in 3–4 turns. The SSU rDNA sequence of C. dactyloptena sp. nov. was distinct from all known myxosporeans, showing the highest similarity (87.9%) and the shortest genetic distance (0.1209) with C. filamentosi Kalatzis, Kokkari & Katharios, 2013. Molecular analyses revealed intraspecific variation among C. siganicola strains, with ITS rDNA being more sensitive than SSU rDNA in detecting these differences. Phylogenetic analysis placed C. dactyloptena sp. nov. in a clade with C. oxycheilinae Heiniger, Gunter & Adlard, 2008, while all C. siganicola strains clustered together, forming a sister clade to C. barnesi Gunter, Whipps & Adlard, 2009. Furthermore, the phylogenetic results indicated that ceratomyxid diversification is influenced not only by host specificity but also by geographic distribution.
["Ceratomyxa dactyloptena sp. nov."]
["Myxozoan Parasites in Aquatic Species", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Microbial infections and disease research"]

A taxonomic revision of the genus Alexeter Förster (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ctenopelmatinae, Mesoleiini) from Taiwan, with descriptions of six new species
The genus Alexeter Förster, 1869 is first recorded from Taiwan. One previously described species, A. shakojiensis Uchida, 1930, is newly recorded from Taiwan. Six new species, A. flavomaculatus sp. nov., A. hsiaoae sp. nov., A. mediolobus sp. nov., A. monticola sp. nov., A. pseudozangicus sp. nov., and A. rufispeculus sp. nov., are described and can be distinguished from their congeners primarily based on color pattern, mandibular teeth, propodeal carinae, fore wing length and venation, ocellar and first metasomal tergite measurements, and flagellomere counts. Illustrations of the male genitalia and a diagnostic key to the Taiwanese Alexeter species are provided. DNA-based species delimitations are provided as supporting evidence for four new species. In a COI-based phylogeny sampling 31 operative taxonomic units of Alexeter and similar genera, the genus Alexeter was not resolved as a monophyletic group. Additionally, the COI barcode showed limitations in distinguishing some Alexeter morphospecies, indicating the need for further evaluation of COI-based species delimitation in this genus.
["Darwin wasps"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Two new species of Szelenyiopria Fabritius (Hymenoptera, Diapriidae), larval koinobiont endoparasitoids of the leaf-cutter ant Acromyrmex coronatus (Fabricius) (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), from Panama
Leaf-cutter ant nests attract a wide variety of guests and parasites due to considerable food resources, substrate and shelter available within nests. Limited information is known about their taxonomy, bionomics, and natural history, including interactions with the ants, and degree of host specificity of these symbionts. Here we describe two new species of Szelenyiopria Fabritius, 1974 (Diapriidae, Diapriinae, Diapriini) wasps which are koinobiont endoparasitoids of the larvae of a leaf-cutter ant, Acromyrmex coronatus (Fabricius, 1804) (Myrmicinae, Attini) in Chiriquí, Panama. For both new Szelenyiopria species, S. fortunensis Araúz & Fernández-Marín, sp. nov. and S. chiriquiensis Araúz & Fernández-Marín, sp. nov., we provide information on parasite–host interactions. The most abundant and frequent parasitoid type was solitary, while gregarious parasitoidism, where two or more wasps emerged from a single ant larva, was associated with certain times of the year. We provide an updated key to females of all species of Szelenyiopria, their geographic distribution, and host–parasite interactions. Szelenyiopria previously had been identified as parasitoids of several ant genera including some Acromyrmex species, but our data indicate that some species of Szelenyiopria may be specialized on A. coronatus ants. Rates of parasitism suggest that the wasps have a negative effect on colonies and populations of the ants.
["Attini"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Description of a male Zimirina corsica sp. nov. (Arachnida, Araneae) – the first Prodidomidae species reported on the European territory of France
A new Prodidomidae species (genus Zimirina Dalmas) is proposed based on the description of a male specimen caught in Corsica. The specimen can be distinguished from other Zimirina males by the shape of its tegulum and cymbium. Considering that it differs in a number of characters from all other male Zimirina we propose to name this new species Zimirina corsica sp. nov., referring to the type locality.
["French Mediterranean island"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Exploring Monacha species from the island of Corfu (NW Greece) by an integrative approach: new insights on M. claustralis (Rossmässler, 1834), M. parumcincta (Rossmässler, 1834) and allied species (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Hygromiidae)
The Greek island of Corfu (Kérkyra) is considered the type locality of two Monacha species described in 1834 by Rossmässler, namely Monacha claustralis and M. parumcincta. In this work, Corfu populations of these species were investigated by an integrative approach including analysis of morphological features of shell and distal genitalia as well as molecular features of selected mitochondrial and nuclear gene fragments to establish the relationships between Corfu M. claustralis and M. cartusiana as well as between Corfu and Italian M. parumcincta. Shell features did not differentiate the pairs analysed, i.e. Monacha claustralis vs M. cartusiana and Corfu vs Italian M. parumcincta, whereas features of distal genitalia structure and nucleotide sequences of mitochondrial genes (COI and 16SrDNA) distinguished them significantly. Nuclear gene sequences (ITS2 flanked with 5.8S and 28SrDNA fragments) also differentiated between Corfu and Italian M. parumcincta. It is therefore postulated that these two pairs are composed of four separate species: M. claustralis, M. cartusiana, Corfu M. parumcincta, and Italian M. parumcincta, which are distinct from each other and from the other species of the genus Monacha used here for comparison (the six lineages of M. cantiana s.l. and M. pantanellii).
["Allometry"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Two new species and new records of the genus Procirrus Latreille from China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
New taxonomic and faunistic data for three species of the genus Procirrus Latreille, 1829 from China are provided. Two new species from Hainan and Yunnan provinces are described and illustrated: P. hei Huang & Peng, sp. nov. and P. yunnanensis Huang & Peng, sp. nov. Additional data (including photographs of the habitus and the type labels) on the type specimen of P. fusculus Sharp, 1889 are given. Procirrus lewisii Sharp, 1889 is recorded from Shandong, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Zhejiang, Fujian, Hubei, Guangxi, Guizhou, Chongqing, Sichuan and Xizang for the first time. An identification key to Asian species of Procirrus is given.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Taxonomic notes of the cobweb spider genus Platnickina Koçak & Kemal, 2008 (Araneae, Theridiidae, Theridiinae), with descriptions of two new species from southern China
Based on specimens collected from southern China, two new species of Platnickina Koçak & Kemal, 2008 are described: P. submaculata Hu & Liu, sp. nov. (male, female) and P. yoshidai Hu & Liu, sp. nov. (male). Two new combinations, transferred from Theridion Walckenaer, 1805, are proposed: P. obscuratum (Zhu, 1998), comb. nov. and P. xianfengense (Zhu & Song, 1992), comb. nov. Three new species groups within Platnickina are established based on morphological characteristics: antoni group, maculata group, and sterninotata group. In addition, we discuss the relationships between Platnickina and the genera Chrosiothes Simon, 1894, Coleosoma O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1882, Simitidion Wunderlich, 1992, and Theridion.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

First record of Bibrax Fletcher, 1927 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from Ecuador, with descriptions of twelve new species
Twelve new species of Bibrax Fletcher, 1927 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae: Euplectitae: Metopiasini) from Ecuador are described: B. chullachaqui sp. nov., B. chocoensis sp. nov., B. onorei sp. nov., B. aratrifer sp. nov., B. longiventer sp. nov., B. cerroblanco sp. nov., B. canelazo sp. nov., B. pectinifer sp. nov., B. arachnoides sp. nov., B. amasanga sp. nov., B. yasuni sp. nov., and B. grandis sp. nov. A key for all species of Bibrax is provided. These are the first records of the genus for the country, and we report species from most major environments in the country, from seasonal coastal forests to cloud forests and the Amazonian Basin. The new species expand the scope of morphological variability in the genus, with discovery of numerous microphthalmous and wingless species, and a range of previously unreported secondary sexual characters. Most of the species are only known from single localities, suggesting a large fauna remaining to be discovered from a large portion of South America.
["Leaf litter beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Freshwater Mollusca of Kazakhstan (Central Asia): species composition and estimation of taxonomic richness
Central Asia, including its freshwater basins, belongs to the Palearctic realm but exhibits significant faunal heterogeneity with localised hotspots of endemism. While several Central Asian countries have been the subject of malacological reviews, Kazakhstan, the largest country of the region, lacks a comprehensive and taxonomically updated species list. The aim of this study is to consolidate all available data on Kazakhstan’s freshwater molluscs, critically analyse their species composition, and assess the level of endemism in this group across the country. Based on the analysis of museum collections and literature sources, we estimate the species richness of freshwater molluscs in Kazakhstan at 87 species (55 Gastropoda and 32 Bivalvia), with an expected total of 93 species. Overall, species richness declines from the forest-steppe zone in the north and northeast toward the arid and mountainous regions in the south and southwest. Six potentially endemic species were identified; however, the taxonomic status of some requires further verification. The freshwater malacofauna of Kazakhstan has been affected by recent invasions, with at least seven species classified as neo-biotic, and for some, we hypothesise a recolonisation of habitats lost during the Pleistocene.
["Bivalvia"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Marine and environmental studies"]

A new species of Monomorium Mayr, 1855 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) with a brachypterous queen from southern Japan, and phylogeny of Japanese Monomorium species with diverse reproductive strategies
The genus Monomorium is an important phylogenetic group, notable for its taxonomic complexity and the presence of several well-known tramp species. In this study, we present a description of M. brachypterum sp. nov. from southern Japan along with an updated key to the Japanese species of the genus based on the worker caste. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using 13 protein-coding genes of the mitochondrial genome indicated that this new species is most closely related to M. intrudens. Within their overlapping distributions, analyses based on partial sequences of the mitochondrial COI gene showed that the two species are phylogenetically distinct. The queens of M. brachypterum are distinguished from those of M. intrudens by degenerated wings, suggesting contrasting dispersal strategies between the two sister species. In addition, a phylogenetic analysis performed for the Japanese Monomorium species provides support for the repeated evolution of diverse reproductive systems within this genus. The present study highlights a wide variety of evolutionary trends in the nest-level reproductive system, even among closely related species.
["COI gene"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

First male description of Urodeta longa Sruoga & Kaila, 2019 from Thailand with identification keys to Asian species of Urodeta Stainton, 1869 (Lepidoptera, Elachistidae, Elachistinae)
A male of the little-known species Urodeta longa Sruoga & Kaila, 2019 is described for the first time based on material collected in northern Thailand. The species is diagnosed based on characters found in the habitus and genitalia, which are illustrated in detail. Conspecificity of male and female specimens is confirmed by DNA barcodes. Identification keys to all known Asian species of the genus Urodeta Stainton, 1869, based on male and female genitalia, are provided. Exceptionally high intra-generic barcode divergence among Urodeta species is reported.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Two new species of Tropodiaptomus Kiefer, 1932 (Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae) from temporary waters in Thailand and Cambodia with a key to Southeast Asian species
Two new copepod species of the species-rich genus Tropodiaptomus, collected from temporary water habitats in Southeast Asia, are described. A critical morphological comparison has revealed that the two new species, T. lannaensis sp. nov. from Thailand and T. kampucheaensis sp. nov. from Cambodia, closely resemble their respective congeners, T. ruttneri (Brehm, 1923) and T. doriai (Richard, 1894). However, T. lannaensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from other congeners, including T. ruttneri, by the following characters of the male P5: (1) the inner margin of the right basis has one small semicircular knob and one triangular knob; (2) the right second exopodal segment has a long, slender accessory spine inserted at the proximal third of the outer margin; and (3) the inner margin of the left exopod has a bilobed saw with a series of large denticles and smaller denticles near the distal end. Tropodiaptomus kampucheaensis sp. nov. is different from all other species because it has (1) only one longitudinal hyaline lamella on the inner margin of the basis of the male right P5; (2) the one-lobed distal inner margin on the male left P5 exopod with uniform teeth; (3) the asymmetrical female genital-double somite (right margin expanded sub-proximally); and (4) the extraordinarily long inner seta on the P4 coxa of both sexes. The biogeography and keys to the species of Tropodiaptomus in Southeast Asia are presented.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Slugs and semi-slugs of the superfamily Helicarionoidea (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora) collected in North Vietnam during the 2023 Bulgarian Zoological Expedition, with emphasis on the genus Ostracolethe
A list of species of slugs and semi-slugs of the superfamily Helicarionoidea collected in North Vietnam in 2023 is presented. A new species of the genus Ostracolethe Simroth, 1901, Ostracolethe penevi Dedov & Vu, sp. nov., is described, which was collected from a single locality in North Vietnam. The validity of Ostracolethe fruhstorfferi Simroth, 1901 is confirmed, and the unusual torus-toroid structure is discussed. A key for the determination of the helicarionoid genera of slugs and semi-slugs from North Vietnam is also provided.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Contribution to the Arabo-Saharan psammophilous Saprininae, with descriptions of two new species (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Saprininae, Hypocaccini)
Two new psammophilous Saprininae, Neopachylopus pharkidodes sp. nov. and N. penatii sp. nov. from the Arabian Peninsula and Algerian Sahara, respectively, are described and figured herein. Both are tentatively assigned to the genus Neopachylopus Reichardt, 1926, pending further studies. A key to species is given. The second known exemplar of the very rare Exaesiopus therondi Lackner, 2015 from the United Arab Emirates is reported and figured.
["Arabo-Saharian Region"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A survey of Orchestina Simon, 1882 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Xishuangbanna, China, with descriptions of eight new species
Eight new species and one known species of the oonopid spider genus Orchestina Simon, 1882 are described or recorded based on material collected from forest canopy of Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, southwestern China: O. alata sp. nov. (♂♀), O. aureola Tong & Li, 2011 (♂♀), O. caixiaae Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. longituba Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. qingyuani Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. subconcava Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. sublongituba Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. tentoria Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and O. xuexing Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). An identification key to these nine species is provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Mountainous millipedes in Vietnam. V. The millipede genus Kronopolites Attems, 1914 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae), with descriptions of two new species
The paradoxosomatid genus Kronopolites Attems, 1914 has been reviewed in the context of Vietnam’s fauna. A total of six species have been documented in the country, including a new country record, K. biagrilectus Hoffman, 1963, and two new species, K. contrastus sp. nov. and K. serratus sp. nov. The genetic distances and the phylogenetic relationship between Vietnamese Kronopolites species based on a fragment of the COI gene were also provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Four species of Zoica Simon, 1898 from Asia (Araneae, Lycosidae)
Three new species of the wolf spider genus Zoica Simon, 1898 are described from eastern and southeastern parts of Asia: Zoica dulong Lu, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (Yunnan, ♂♀) and Z. medogensis Lu, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (Xizang, ♂♀) from China and Z. thailandica Lu, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (Ratchaburi, ♂♀) from Thailand. The male of Z. oculata Buchar, 1997 (Xizang) is described here for the first time, and the first record of the species from China is reported. Descriptions and photographs of all the species are provided.
["Bhutan"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Revision of Lathonura rectirostris (O.F. Müller, 1785) (Anomopoda, Macrothricidae) leads to translocation of East Asian populations to a separate species, Lathonura bekkerae sp. nov.
The family Macrothricidae (Branchiopoda: Anomopoda) remains one of the least studied groups of water fleas (Cladocera). One of macrothricids with an unclear phylogenetic status is Lathonura Lilljeborg, 1853 comprising a single universally accepted valid species, L. rectirostris (O.F. Müller, 1785). Despite its wide distribution in the Northern Hemisphere, no studies were conducted to prove conspecificity of L. rectirostris from different regions and properly describe its gamogenetic stages. Here, the morphological and genetic diversity of Lathonura in the Holarctic is revised. Our results show that in East Eurasia and Alaska a separate species of the genus occurs, L. bekkerae sp. nov., which differs from L. rectirostris s. str. by the posteroventral valve armature, structure of antenna I, and ephippium ornamentation. Mitochondrial DNA barcoding supports separation of L. bekkerae sp. nov. and reveals a deeply divergent clade of L. rectirostris s. l. in Canada, for which parthenogenetic females are morphologically indistinct from those of L. rectirostris s. str. Lathonura distribution fits well to the known patterns of Anomopoda biogeography. Males of Lathonura possess two additional setae at antenna II basipodite, P1 with a subdistal lobe lacking setae, P1 IDL with a hook and an additional seta, and an unmodified postabdomen. As noted in some previous studies, Lathonura likely represents a phylogenetic lineage distinct from the subfamily Macrothricinae, differing from most macrothricines by the absence of Fryer’s fork at P1 inner endite anterior setae and presence of P1 accessory seta. However, the phylogenetic position of the genus and its diversity in South Eurasia, Africa, and North America requires further studies.
["Barcoding"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new distinctive lineage of Helix (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Helicidae), with a guide to Helix species from mainland Greece
Greece is home to numerous endemic land snail species, sometimes with highly restricted distributions. Several species of Helix, representing all three subgenera, live there. Although the genus was taxonomically revised in 2014, there remained some open questions and the distribution ranges of individual species are still incompletely known. The discovery of a new, narrowly endemic subspecies, Helix pelagonesica thembones Korábek, Juřičková & Hausdorf, subsp. nov., is reported from the hills bordering the Thessalian Plain in the west. It was previously confused with Helix schlaeflii, but it was found that H. schlaeflii does not occur as far east as previously thought. Notably, the isolated populations from the tip of the Sithonia peninsula (Chalkidiki) that had previously been identified as H. schlaeflii also turned out to be related to H. pelagonesica. Although a divergent mitochondrial lineage was found there, morphological differences limited only to a different shell shape and lack of geographic separation led us to classify these populations as a form of H. pelagonesica pelagonesica. In addition, Helix straminea is reported from Greece for the first time, with a population located near Kalambaka. All the Helix species from mainland Greece are illustrated and accompanied by descriptions to facilitate their recognition and maps of their distribution are provided.
["Balkans"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Two new species of the mealybug genus Paraputo Laing (Hemiptera, Pseudococcidae) from Borneo Island, Indonesia
The mealybug genus Paraputo Laing (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Pseudococcidae) contains 89 species worldwide, including several important agricultural insect pests. During a 2024 survey of mealybug species on Borneo Island, Indonesia, two undescribed Paraputo species were found feeding on forest trees. Descriptions of both new species, based on morphological characters, are accompanied by photomicrographs and taxonomic illustrations. The newly described species, Paraputo raufi Zarkani & Kaydan, sp. nov. and Paraputo martonoi Zarkani & Kaydan, sp. nov., are each compared with other species of Paraputo to which they show notable morphological similarities. An updated taxonomic key to species of Paraputo found in Southeast and southern Asia is provided.
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Bat diversity (Mammalia, Chiroptera) in and around Gomantong and Madai caves, Sabah: insights from field surveys and published records from other Malaysian Bornean caves
Gomantong and Madai caves are two of the largest limestone formations with intricate cave systems located in the Lower Kinabatangan and Kunak areas, respectively, in Sabah, Malaysia, Borneo. Despite their ecological and economic significance, limited published information exists on the bat species inhabiting these caves. This study aims to analyze bat diversity at both caves and compare their species richness and diversity to other cave inventories in Sabah and Sarawak. Two bat surveys were conducted around Gomantong caves with a combined trapping effort of 56 trap nights deployed in the surrounding forest. A bat survey at Madai cave utilized 16 trap nights deployed within the caves. A total of 974 and 264 bats were captured from Gomantong and Madai caves, representing 14 and 8 bat species, respectively. A compilation of bat species records from previous studies shows that Gomantong and Madai caves host at least 26 and 30 bat species, respectively. Comparisons with other caves across Malaysian Borneo reveal that Mulu cave and Wind cave in Sarawak, each with 29 species, rank just below Madai cave in bat diversity. Gomantong and Madai caves serve as critical roosting habitats for diverse bat species, including Borneo-endemic and rare species (e.g., Myotis gomantongensis, M. borneoensis), highlighting their ecological importance and the urgent need for conservation and sustainable management to mitigate anthropogenic threats. This survey provides an updated checklist of bats in the Gomantong caves and the Madai cave from Sabah, Malaysia. This study also compiles the bat species diversity of other selected caves across Malaysian Borneo.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

Different, but still the same: integrative taxonomy confirms a new species of Eresus Walckenaer, 1805 (Araneae, Eresidae) from the South Caucasus
This study represents the first step toward a systematic revision of the velvet spider genus Eresus Walckenaer, 1805 in the Caucasus. Here, Eresus transcaucasicus sp. nov. is described using an integrative approach, based on male specimens collected from the South Caucasus. The species was previously reported as E. kollari Rossi, 1846 from Armenia and as Eresus sp. from Georgia. Intraspecific variations in both coloration patterns and conductor shape, which have been rarely documented in this genus, are illustrated. The validity of previous records of E. kollari in the region is discussed.
["Biodiversity hotspot"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Comparative analysis of mitogenomes in six Scolopendra species (Chilopoda, Scolopendromorpha): insights into rare genetic rearrangements and phylogeny
Six complete mitochondrial genomes from species within Scolopendra (Scolopendromorpha) (S. alcyona, S. calcarata, S. cataracta, S. lufengia, S. mazbii, and S. multidens) were analyzed. The mitochondrial genomes ranged in size from 14,422 bp to 15,458 bp, with A+T content varying between 67.00% and 74.53%. All PCGs and rRNA were successfully identified, though tRNAs exhibited widespread loss. Additionally, supplementary control region sequences were identified in three species. Beyond sequence data, the arrangement of mitochondrial genes can provide additional phylogenetically relevant information. The mitogenome arrangements in S. alcyona, S. cataracta, S. lufengia, and S. mazbii are consistent with the inferred ancestral arrangement in Myriapoda, but Scolopendra multidens had a duplication of tRNA and S. calcarata underwent a significant gene rearrangement. The Tandem Duplication/Random Loss model and tRNA mispriming mode were determined as most likely explanations for the observed gene rearrangements. Phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using the six newly sequenced mitogenomes and published mitochondrial data from other Chilopoda species. The results revealed two major monophyletic clades within Scolopendra: one comprising S. alcyona, S. dehaani, S. cataracta, S. lufengia, S. morsitans, S. multidens, and S. mutilans, and the other uniting S. mazbii and S. calcarata. Notably, S. subspinipes unexpectedly clustered with Scolopocryptops sp., challenging the monophyly of Scolopendra and highlighting the need for revised taxonomic evaluations. These results enhance our understanding of gene rearrangements and evolutionary dynamics in Scolopendromorpha, offering critical insights into their phylogenetic relationships.
["Centipede"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Review of the wolf-spider genus Draposa Kronestedt, 2010 from China (Araneae, Lycosidae)
The wolf-spider genus Draposa Kronestedt, 2010 in China is reviewed. A new combination is proposed: Draposa aciculifera (Chen, Song & Li, 2001), comb. nov. (ex. Pardosa C L. Koch, 1847). Pardosa shugangensis Yin, Bao & Peng, 1997 is synonymized with Draposa zhanjiangensis (Yin, Wang, Peng & Xie, 1995), syn. nov. Detailed redescriptions, habitus photographs, illustrations of copulatory organs, and live habitus images are provided for relevant species. Draposa burasantiensis (Tikader & Malhotra, 1976) is transferred back to Pardosa and figures of P. burasantiensis sensu Yin et al. (1997b) from China are provided.

First record of silk-loving genus Embiophila (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Plokiophilidae) from Asia, with description of a new species from China
The silk-loving bug Embiophila sinica sp. nov. is described from Yunnan, southwestern China, representing the first record of the genus Embiophila (Heteroptera, Plokiophilidae) from Asia. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by the different number of the spines on the fore – and mid-femora, and the numbers of the corial glands on the hemelytra. Photographs of the habitus and diagnostic characters, as well as living individuals in natural habitats, are provided. A key to Embiophila species is presented. The ecology of the new species and the distribution of Embiophila are briefly discussed.
["Embiophilini"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new squat lobster (Crustacea, Decapoda, Munidopsidae) from the western Atlantic with redescription of Munidopsis expansa Benedict, 1902 and several range extensions
The western Atlantic Ocean harbors a rich fauna of deep-sea squat lobsters that have been intensively studied during the last two centuries. We revise material recently collected by trawls, ROV and submersibles on several expeditions in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. Using an integrative taxonomy approach, we describe Munidopsis messingi sp. nov. and redescribe M. expansa Benedict, 1902, the latter species known only from a few records. Additionally, we report a new record of M. turgida Rodríguez-Flores, Macpherson & Machordom, 2018 for the Gulf of Mexico. This rare species was previously known from only the holotype, collected in the Guadeloupe Islands, Caribbean Sea. We apply micro-CT scanning in the course of morphological illustrations and report barcode data as available.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Three new species of the genus Cicurina Menge, 1871 from Chongqing, China (Araneae, Cicurinidae)
Three new species of the spider genus Cicurina Menge, 1871, C. jinyun sp. nov. (♂♀), C. yinhe sp. nov. (♂♀) and C. zhangfui sp. nov. (♂), are described from Chongqing, China. Morphological descriptions, photographs, and illustrations of copulatory organs are provided. The number of documented Cicurina species in Chongqing increases from 10 to 13.
["Araneomorph spiders"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Water beetles of northeastern Algeria: new records for the country and faunistic updates (Coleoptera, aquatic Adephaga, Dryopidae, Hydrophiloidea, Hydraenidae)
Water beetles collected from Lake Tonga (North-East of Algeria), one of the best preserved and biodiverse coastal habitats in North Africa, have been studied and identifications of species reassessed, since most previous determinations published in Mahmoudi et al. (2023) were found to be incorrect. In this paper a revised species list is provided, with a small batch of previously unidentified material collected from a second biotope, Garaat Djamel, located 60 km west of Lake Tonga. A total of 42 species were identified, belonging to the families Gyrinidae, Haliplidae, Noteridae, Hygrobiidae, Dytiscidae, Dryopidae, Helophoridae, Hydrochidae, Hydrophilidae, and Hydraenidae, hosting approximately 13% of the Algerian aquatic beetle fauna, with the vast majority of this diversity concentrated in Lake Tonga, underscoring its status as a key hotspot of aquatic beetle biodiversity in the region. Five of the identified species are new records for Algeria: Helophorus cf. paraminutus Angus, 1986, Amphiops senegalensis (Laporte, 1840), Enochrus natalensis (Gemminger & Harold, 1868), Crephelochares ?livornicus (Kuwert, 1890) and Ochthebius fallaciosus Ganglbauer, 1901. Hydrochus grandicollis Kiesenwetter, 1870, and Coelostoma hispanicum (Küster, 1848), recently recorded from Algeria, but omitted from major catalogues, are here confirmed for the country. Furthermore, the discovery of a male of the poorly known Haliplus ruficeps Chevrolat, 1806 represents the first documented record of this species in more than a century. Photographs of the habitus and male genitalia of H. ruficeps and of the newly recorded species are provided. At present, Algeria supports 301 species of aquatic Coleoptera across 84 genera and 17 families. A comprehensive and updated checklist is also given, with a discussion on several doubtful or unconfirmed records.
["Algeria"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of genus Zele Curtis (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Euphorinae) from China, with description of nineteen new species
Zele Curtis is a braconid parasitoid wasp genus within the subfamily Euphorinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), consisting of only 30 species worldwide. The Chinese species of the genus Zele are revised and 29 species are now recognised, including 19 species new to science: Z. aquilus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. carinatus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. confusus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. cristatus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. curvatus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. curvinervis Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. densipunctatus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. extensus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. fulgidus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. fuscatus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. impolitus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. inclinator Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. irregularis Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. petiolatus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. rugulosus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. sculpticoxis Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. shaanxiensis Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., Z. syntomus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov., and Z. vacatus Fang, van Achterberg & Chen, sp. nov. 31 barcode region sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) from the genus Zele were obtained and combined with 102 sequences from BOLD. They were used to validate new species and to get an indication of similarity among species. Three species are reinstated: Zele peronatus (Shestakov, 1940), Z. romani (Fahringer, 1929), and Z. rufulus (Thomson, 1895). In addition, an identification key for the Zele species recorded in China (plus one expected species) is provided.
["DNA barcodes"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Three new species of the genus Parandes Muir, 1925 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae) from China, with an updated checklist and key to species
Three new species of the genus Parandes Muir, 1925 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae, Andini), P. elongatus Lv & Chen, sp. nov., P. guangxiensis Lv & Chen, sp. nov. and P. hamatus Lv & Chen, sp. nov., are described and illustrated from Southwest China (Yunnan and Guangxi) to give the genus six species in total. An updated identification key and checklist to all known species of Parandes are provided, as well as a map of their geographic distributions.
["Cixiids"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Galathea (Decapoda, Galatheidae) from the seamounts of the Easter Island area (Southeast Pacific Ocean Ridge) associated with a sea urchin
Galathea tukitukimea sp. nov. is described from the seamounts near Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and represents the first record of the genus for this region of the Pacific Ocean and for Chilean territory. The new species belongs to the group of species having the carapace with median protogastric and cardiac spines. G. tukitukimea has always been observed associated with the sea urchin Stereocidaris nascaensis. This potential mimicry-based association is uncommon in squat lobsters, which warrants further study.
["Gallardo Salamanca", "Mar\u00eda de los \u00c1ngeles"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Six new species of the spider genus Clubiona Latreille, 1804 (Araneae, Clubionidae) from subtropical forests of Sichuan Province, China
Six new species, belonging to three species groups of Clubiona Latreille, 1804 are described from both males and females: C. huntianling Yu & Li, sp. nov., C. rouqiu Yu & Li, sp. nov. and C. yinyangjian Yu & Li, sp. nov. from the corticalis group; C. huojianqiang Yu & Li, sp. nov. and C. qiankunquan Yu & Li, sp. nov. from the trivialis group; C. nezha Yu & Li, sp. nov. from the zilla group. These species are currently known to occur only in subtropical forests, Sichuan, China. The DNA barcodes of all species were obtained for species delimitation, matching of sexes and future use.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Ictalurus nazas sp. nov., a new species of North American catfish (Siluriformes, Ictaluridae) from Mexico
Catfishes of the genus Ictalurus (Ictaluridae) range geographically from southern Canada to northern Guatemala and Belize. The systematics of this genus remain unresolved, with recent studies suggesting the presence of cryptic diversity. This is the case for a potentially undescribed catfish species distributed in the Nazas River basin, which has been recorded to date as a population of Ictalurus pricei. Recent phylogenetic studies suggest that it represents an independently evolving lineage that is distinct from I. pricei. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic characters that differentiate the Nazas River basin lineage and to describe this lineage as a new taxon. Morphological comparisons were made using meristic and morphometric characters. The study identified useful meristic and morphometric characters for diagnosing Ictalurus nazas sp. nov., which differentiate it from I. pricei.
["Ictalurus pricei"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Two new species of Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Yunnan Province, China, with a key to all known Trilacuna species of Yunnan
Two new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007, T. manhao Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and T. mopanshan Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), are described from Yunnan, China. Descriptions, diagnoses, photomicroscopy images and a key to species of Yunnan Province are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Two new species of Synotaxidae from eastern China (Araneae, Synotaxidae)
This paper describes two new synotaxid members from eastern China: the species Hamus qingming Yao, Liu & Lin, sp. nov. (♂, ♀, Fujian) and Tekellina zhangziqingi Yao, Liu & Lin, sp. nov. (♂, ♀, Jiangxi). Diagnoses, detailed descriptions, and illustrations are provided for both species. The geographic distributions of five Synotaxidae genera are discussed.
["Family distribution"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Preliminary survey of midget cave spiders (Araneae, Leptonetidae) from forest ecosystems in southern China with the description of three new species
This study reports six leptonetid species from three genera collected in karst-associated forest ecosystems of southern China. Three new midget cave spider species are diagnosed, described, and illustrated: Pararana jiufushanensis Yao & K. K. Liu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀; Fujian Province), P. songyuani Yao & K. K. Liu, sp. nov. (♂; Guangdong Province), and Leptonetela zhaoruii Yao & K. K. Liu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀; Fujian Province). Notably, the female of P. gaofani Lin & Li, 2022 is described for the first time, while the holotype of P. mingxuani Yao & Liu, 2024 is illustrated with detailed images of the male palpal characters. Additionally, Rhyssoleptoneta lishan Tong, 2024 is newly recorded in Jiangsu Province, expanding its known geographic range. Detailed distribution records are provided for all species, emphasizing southeastern China’s significance as a hotspot for leptonetid diversity and adaptive radiation. These findings refine taxonomic frameworks for karst-associated spiders and enhance understanding of their biogeographic patterns in East Asian karst systems.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Descriptions of four new species of atyid shrimp (Crustacea, Decapoda, Atyidae) in Vietnam
Recent surveys revealed a high biodiversity of freshwater shrimps, Atyidae De Haan, 1849 in northern Vietnam. Here, we describe four new species of the genus Caridina, C. ngocson sp. nov., C. xuanlien sp. nov., C. tanson sp. nov., and C. tamkim sp. nov. The new species can be distinguished from their congeners by distinct characteristics of the rostrum, stylocerite, first and second pereiopods, male first and second pleopods, and uropodal diaeresis. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and 16S ribosomal RNA (16S) genes support the distinctness of the new species from all other species examined.
["Caridina"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Morphology of a novel ciliate, Oxytricha chongqingica sp. nov. (Ciliophora, Hypotrichia)
A novel hypotrichous ciliate, Oxytricha chongqingica sp. nov., was identified in Chongqing, southwestern China. This species is distinguishable from congeners by various qualitative and quantitative characteristics, such as body size and shape, pattern of endoral and paroral, number of macronuclear nodules, presence and arrangement of cortical granules, as well as ventral and dorsal ciliature. Phylogenetic analyses based on small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA) sequences indicate that Oxytricha chongqingica sp. nov. forms a cluster with O. nauplia, Allotrichides antarcticus, O. paragranulifera, O. quadricirrata, Paroxytricha longigranulosa, and P. ottowi, albeit with weak or moderate nodal support (82 ML and 0.87 BI).
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Methane Hydrates and Related Phenomena"]

Discovery of Synuchus congruus (Morawitz, 1862) (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Sphodrini) in Europe
The eastern Palearctic carabid beetle Synuchus congruus (Morawitz, 1862) is recorded from Belarus, Latvia, and Poland. Images of habitus, morphological features, and aedeagi, as well as an updated key to the Synuchus species of Europe, are provided.
["Carabid beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Size matters: a new genus of tarantula with the longest male palps, and an integrative revision of Monocentropus Pocock, 1897 (Araneae, Theraphosidae, Eumenophorinae)
A taxonomic revision of the eumenophorine tarantula genus Monocentropus Pocock, 1897, which currently comprises three species, M. balfouri Pocock, 1897 (♂♀; Socotra, Yemen), M. lambertoni Fage, 1922 (♂♀; Madagascar), and M. longimanus Pocock, 1903 (♂♀; Yemen), is presented. By integrating both morphological data and a molecular phylogeny based on mitochondrial (cox1) and nuclear (28S, 18S) markers, the genus is herein redefined to include only the type species, M. balfouri. A new genus, Satyrex Zamani & von Wirth, gen. nov., is established to comprise S. longimanus comb. nov., along with four new species from the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa described herein: S. arabicus Zamani & von Wirth, sp. nov. (♂; Saudi Arabia), S. ferox Zamani, von Wirth & Stockmann, sp. nov. (♂♀; Yemen, Oman), S. somalicus Zamani & von Wirth, sp. nov. (♂; Somaliland), and S. speciosus Zamani, von Wirth & Just, sp. nov. (♂♀; Somaliland). The new genus is partially characterised by possessing the longest male palps known in tarantulas, possibly functioning in cannibalism avoidance during mating. Both the molecular phylogeny and morphological characters suggest that M. lambertoni is probably not congeneric with M. balfouri, and also indicate that multiple species may be currently subsumed under the former name. Therefore, M. lambertoni is regarded as incerta sedis pending further studies to clarify its taxonomic placement, as it is also considered to represent a species complex. Finally, the distribution of all studied taxa is discussed within a biogeographic framework.
["Afrotropical realm"]

A new species of Eudigraphis (Diplopoda, Polyxenida, Polyxenidae) from East China, with embryonic and post-embryonic development observations, and mitogenomic and genetic divergence analyses
Eudigraphis huadongensis Yang & Bu, sp. nov. from east China is described and illustrated. The new species is compared with other congeners in detail and observations about its embryonic and post-embryonic development are provided. The complete mitochondrial genome of the new species is also analyzed, which represents the first published mitogenome of Polyxenida. The genetic divergence between E. huadongensis sp. nov. and its congeners was analyzed using Neighbor-Joining inference based on COI gene sequences. Eudigraphis huadongensis sp. nov. clustered with E. nigricans and E. kinutensis, supporting the morphological identification. The newly assembled mitogenome is 15,206 bp in length and its gene order is unique, possibly representing a pattern among Polyxenida species.
["Bristle millipedes"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the longicorn beetle genus Neocerambyx (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae, Cerambycini) from China, with descriptions of three new species
The genus Neocerambyx J. Thomson, 1861 in China is surveyed, and three new species are described: N. liyuani Lin, Miroshnikov & He, sp. nov. from Sichuan and Hubei provinces, N. miaobenfui Lin, Miroshnikov & He, sp. nov. and N. gui Lin, Miroshnikov & He, sp. nov., both from Hainan Island. Neocerambyx melas (Holzschuh, 2021) is recorded from China (Fujian province) for the first time.
["Cerambycidae"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new species of Southeast Asian dwarf tarantula in the genus Phlogiellus Pocock, 1897, from Lao PDR (Theraphosidae, Selenocosmiinae)
A new species of Southeast Asian dwarf tarantula, Phlogiellus khampheng Sriranan, Songsangchote & Chomphuphuang, sp. nov., is described from Pakse, Champasack Province, Lao PDR. The species is placed within the Yamia group of the genus Phlogiellus, which is characterized by the absence of maxillary lyra. Phlogiellus khampheng Sriranan, Songsangchote & Chomphuphuang, sp. nov. can be distinguished from other species within the Yamia group by the unique morphology of the female spermathecae and the male embolus. The habitat and natural history of P. khampheng Sriranan, Songsangchote & Chomphuphuang, sp. nov. are also discussed, with specimens found in mixed deciduous forests near Pakse, Lao PDR, inhabiting various microhabitats such as soil walls, under rocks, and within tree hollows. An updated comparison of scopula characteristics and labial cuspule counts across Phlogiellus species highlights the variability of these traits and their limitations as diagnostic features. Molecular phylogenetic analyses and species delimitation methods (ABGD and ASAP) further support the recognition of P. khampheng Sriranan, Songsangchote & Chomphuphuang, sp. nov. as a distinct species.

An annotated checklist of fish species described from the Philippines
A comprehensive list of fish species collected from Philippine waters and taxonomically described from 1770 to 2024 is herein compiled and presented. A total of 1212 species from 156 families were described, of which 828 from 135 families are currently considered valid, 349 invalid, and 34 with unknown or uncertain status. There are also 228 species currently recorded only in Philippine waters, with 85 species found only in estuarine and freshwater areas, and 143 species in the marine habitats. The type information of these species is also listed together with their current valid names and authorships. The checklist also includes approximately 3842 lots containing 12549 specimens scattered in different museums, including 966 holotypes/lectotypes, 2654 lots of paratypes/paralectotypes, 216 lots of syntypes, and 15 lots of neotypes. Forty-five lots were un-cataloged, while approximately 324 lots were believed to have been lost or destroyed during World War II.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Two new species of the genus Alloscopus Börner, 1906 (Collembola, Orchesellidae, Heteromurinae) from southern Thailand
Two new species of Alloscopus Börner (Orchesellidae: Heteromurinae) are discovered and described from southern Thailand. The first species, Alloscopus sago Jantarit & Manee, sp. nov. was found in a sago palm forest (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.), a true sago palm species native to Southeast Asia and typically located in lowland freshwater swamps in Phatthalung Province. The second species, A. jantapasoae Jantarit, Nilsai & Manee, sp. nov. was sampled from a dark zone within a cave environment in Trang Province. Both species are characterized by the absence of eyes and mucronal spines, the presence of a PAO, two rows of smooth chaetae on the manubrium, and dental spines. However, they differ in several morphological features, including the number of macrochaetae on the ‘A’ series of the head, Th. II and Abd. IV; labial basis chaetotaxy; the presence of smooth chaetae on tibiotarsi; the number of chaetae on both the anterior and posterior ventral tube; and the number of the inter-teeth on the claw. The discovery of these two new species increases the total number of Alloscopus species recorded in Thailand to six species with a total of 17 recognized species globally. An updated key to the world species of Alloscopus is also provided.

Three new species of the genus Olios Walckenaer, 1837 (Araneae, Sparassidae) from southern China
Three new species of the sparassid spider genus Olios Walckenaer, 1837 are described from China: O. biprocessus Hu, Zhang & Liu, sp. nov. (♂) from Hunan Province, O. uniprocessus Hu, Zhang & Liu, sp. nov. (♂) from Chongqing Municipality and O. lincangensis Hu, Zhang & Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan Province. Diagnoses, descriptions, photos and a distribution map of these three new species are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Two new cave-dwelling Spiricoelotes species (Araneae, Agelenidae) from Hubei, China
Two new cave-dwelling Spiricoelotes (Wang, 2002) species are described: S. metyr sp. nov. (♂♀) and S. zhengi sp. nov. (♂♀). Moreover, Spiricoelotes zonatus (Peng & Wang, 1997) is redescribed due to the high similarity to S. zhengi sp. nov. All these three species are illustrated, and their collection localities are mapped. To ensure the correct gender match, the COI sequences data are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Three new species and a new record of the genus Lipolexis (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Aphidiinae) from South Korea
The genus Lipolexis Förster, 1863 consists of 11 species worldwide, with two species previously recorded in South Korea. In this study, three new species: L. depressiceps S. Kim & H. Kim, sp. nov., L. sulcata S. Kim & H. Kim, sp. nov., and L. longipetiolata S. Kim & H. Kim, sp. nov. with an unrecorded species, L. peregrina, Tomanović & Kocić, 2020, are described and reported with photographs, mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) data (barcode region), and a gene tree.
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Genus Varma (Hemiptera, Tropiduchidae): new species description and updated male and female identification keys
A new species of Varma Distant, 1906, Varma microprojecta Zhou & Chang, sp. nov. (China: Yunnan) is described and illustrated. The diagnosis of the genus is updated. A checklist and updated male and female identification keys to the species of Varma in China are provided.
["Identification key"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

Australosagola, a new genus of pselaphine beetles from southern Australia (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Faronitae) with descriptions of seven new species
The new Australian genus, Australosagola, gen. nov. supertribe Faronitae, is described with seven new species and three new combinations for species previously assigned to Sagola Sharp, 1874. This genus includes Australosagola tasmaniae (Lea, 1911), comb. nov. (type species), A. rugicornis (Oke, 1932), comb. nov., A. helenae (Oke, 1925), comb. nov., A. minsangi sp. nov., A. minhoi sp. nov., A. jiwooki sp. nov., A. sunheei sp. nov., A. doohyungi sp. nov., A. jungjooni sp. nov., and A. yongsooni sp. nov. A key, illustrations of major diagnostic characters, habitus images, and distribution maps are provided.
["Ant-loving beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A new species of karst-adapted gecko (Squamata, Gekkonidae, Gekko) from Guangxi, southern China
A new species of the genus Gekko Laurenti, 1768, Gekko fengshanensis sp. nov., is described based on six specimens from Fengshan County, Hechi City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. It is placed into the subgenus Japonigekko based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, and distinguished from consubgeners of Japonigekko by a combination of morphological characters in body size, cephalic proportions, and pholidosis features. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using mitochondrial 16S and ND2 sequences reveal that G. fengshanensis sp. nov. forms a sister relationship with G. kwangsiensis, collectively forming a clade with G. liboensis and G. paucituberculatus endemic to southern China’s karst ecosystems. This discovery increases the number of recognized Gekko species in the South China Karst to five, underscoring the role that fragmented karst landscapes play in driving speciation and maintaining high levels of biodiversity in this unique ecosystem.
["Gekko fengshanensis sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Review of the spider genus Amaurobius (Araneae, Amaurobiidae) from China, with description of a new genus
This study reviews the Chinese representatives of Amaurobius, and a new genus, Sinoamaurobius Kong, Zhang & Wang, gen. nov., is described to accommodate seven species, including three new species and four species transferred from Amaurobius: Sinoamaurobius guangwushanensis (Wang, Irfan, Zhou & Zhang, 2023), comb. nov., S. songi (Zhang, Wang & Zhang, 2018), comb. nov., S. spinatus (Zhang, Wang & Zhang, 2018), comb. nov., S. wulongdongensis (Wang, Irfan, Zhou & Zhang, 2023), comb. nov., S. baima Kong, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (♀, Sichuan), S. chengkou Kong, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀, Chongqing) and S. yintiaoling Kong, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀, Chongqing). Additionally, we also describe three new Amaurobius species: A. foping Kong, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (♀, Shaanxi), A. pingwu Kong, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan) and A. yushen Kong, Zhang & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀, Chongqing and Hubei). For all new species, morphological descriptions and photos of habitus and copulatory organs are provided.
["Amaurobiinae"]

Four new species and a new record of Synagelides Strand, 1906 (Araneae, Salticidae) from China
Four new species of the jumping spider genus Synagelides Strand, 1906 are described from China: S. dajueshan K. K. Liu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀; Jiangxi Province), S. guangfeng K. K. Liu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀; Jiangxi Province), S. kangding K. K. Liu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀; Sichuan Province), and S. wuyuan K. K. Liu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀; Jiangxi Province). Furthermore, S. himalaicus Bohdanowicz, 1987, stat. res. (♂, ♀; Tibet Autonomous Region) is reinstated as a valid species and recorded from China for the first time, with S. jiricus Bohdanowicz, 1987, syn. nov. designated as its junior synonym. All species are comprehensively illustrated with diagnostic photographs and SEM images, and a distribution map is also provided. The geographic distribution of this genus in China and their adaptations are discussed.
["Ant-like"]

A new arboreal species of Vitronura Yosii, 1969 and a new record of Yuukianura Yosii, 1955 (Collembola, Neanuridae) from China, with notes on the feeding behavior of Neanurinae
A new species, Vitronura cheni sp. nov. (Collembola: Neanuridae) is described from Yongzhou, Hunan Province, China. The new species is characterized by the combination of following characters: 2+2 uncolored big eyes; labral chaetotaxy as 0/2, 2; cephalic tubercle Fr with chaeta O; cephalic tubercles Dl, L and So fused; mandibles with four teeth; maxillae with two lamellae, the long one with a tiny tooth and the short one with pointed tip; labrum truncated; claw without inner tooth; and femur and tibiotarsus with a tenant chaeta. Yuukianura szeptyckii Deharveng & Weiner, 1984 was reported from China for the first time. Observations of a cultured population of Y. szeptyckii revealed feeding preferences and behavior that differ from those previously reported in other members of Neanurinae. A checklist of Yuukianura species and distributions is also provided.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

The Leptophlebiidae of New Guinea (Ephemeroptera, Choroterpinae, Thraulini)
The first global account of the diversity of the Ephemeroptera family Leptophlebiidae in New Guinea is provided, based on collections of nymphs collected throughout the island and in some neighboring islands by Michael Balke (Munich) and his collaborators mainly between 2006 and 2011. All specimens belong to the subfamily Choroterpinae and to the tribe Thraulini. All species can be accommodated in three genera: Thraulus Eaton, 1881, Nonnullidens Grant & Peters, 1993, and Kosminympha gen. nov. The genus Thraulus is divided into two subgenera, namely Thraulus and Masharikella Peters, Gilles & Edmunds, 1964, stat. nov. which is removed from synonymy with Thraulus. Thirty-one new species are described herein. The subgenus Thraulus is reported with nine new species: Thraulus (Thraulus) eloisae sp. nov., Thraulus (Thraulus) granti sp. nov., Thraulus (Thraulus) longinquus sp. nov., Thraulus (Thraulus) nabire sp. nov., Thraulus (Thraulus) noe sp. nov., Thraulus (Thraulus) ogea sp. nov., Thraulus (Thraulus) timorensis sp. nov., Thraulus (Thraulus) wemale sp. nov., and Thraulus (Thraulus) sp. A. Five new species of the subgenus Masharikella are described: Thraulus (Masharikella) iteris sp. nov., Thraulus (Masharikella) johannisluci sp. nov., Thraulus (Masharikella) pascalae sp. nov., Thraulus (Masharikella) samueli sp. nov., and Thraulus (Masharikella) sp. B. Besides the seven known species placed in the genus Nonnullidens, 11 new species are described: Nonnullidens alvarezi sp. nov., Nonnullidens anga sp. nov., Nonnullidens boonsoongi sp. nov., Nonnullidens cozzarolae sp. nov., Nonnullidens fuyugensis sp. nov., Nonnullidens kaltenbachi sp. nov., Nonnullidens marcelae sp. nov., Nonnullidens moiorum sp. nov., Nonnullidens silvaepumilorum sp. nov., and two unnamed species. Similar to Nonnullidens, the new genus Kosminympha gen. nov. is endemic to New Guinea and is currently restricted to the eastern part of Papua New Guinea. It is composed of six new species: Kosminympha asarorum sp. nov., Kosminympha balkei sp. nov., Kosminympha baruya sp. nov., Kosminympha kalamorum sp. nov., Kosminympha paulinae sp. nov., and Kosminympha sabrinae sp. nov. Nonnullidens mariae (Peters & Tsui, 1972), the type species of the genus Barba Grant & Peters, 1993 is redescribed, and the synonymy of Barba with Nonnullidens is followed but shown to be not completely satisfactory. A key for all currently known species of leptophlebiid nymphs occurring in the area is provided. Compared to the work of Cozzarolo et al. (2019) who investigated the genetic diversity of this fauna, our results appear to be more conservative, some molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) being lumped together based on morphology. The affinities of this fauna with neighbouring areas of Southeast Asia and Australia are also discussed. Although this study reveals a large part of the hidden biodiversity of New Guinea, it is far from being complete and a huge number of new species of Leptophlebiidae await formal description.
["Biogeography"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Structure of the genetic variation in the common springtail Isotomiella minor (Hexapoda, Collembola) from contrasting habitats: evidence for different genetic lineages at a regional scale?
Although Isotomiella minor (Schäffer, 1896) (Collembola) is widely distributed in temperate regions, it is one of the less-studied species genetically. The genetic variability and its structure in the common springtail I. minor were investigated on a regional geographic scale using mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (28S rDNA) markers. A total of nine populations from urban habitats of the Košice city agglomeration and four populations from natural sites of the karst landscape were used for the present study carried out in the Western Carpathians, Slovakia. Up to nine cryptic lineages (MOTUs - molecular operational taxonomic units) were independently recognised by two molecular delimitation methods. In addition, high genetic distances between lineages were observed (p-dist: 10.87−22.75% and K2p: 11.98−27.22%), comparable to the genetic distances between species. This study showed that urban and natural habitats harbour significantly different genetic lineages. Limited dispersal of MOTUs (lineages) between natural and urban populations was also supported by analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA). While the I. minor populations at urban sites were mixtures of different lineages, the populations at natural sites were monophyletic and their haplotypes/genetic lineages were clearly grouped by individual sites. Possible ecological filtering between urban and natural environments within MOTUs is discussed with respect to the evolution of parthenogenetic species I. minor in this habitat complex.
["Environmental conditions"]
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

On two new Phyllidia species (Gastropoda, Nudibranchia, Doridina) and some histology from the Coral Triangle
Two new species of Phyllidia from North Sulawesi, Indonesia, Phyllidia fontjei sp. nov. and Phyllidia ovata sp. nov., are described based on morphology and molecular barcoding of CO1 and/or 16S. Both species are rare and distinctive and can be easily recognised by their colouration. Additionally, histological sections were made of the holotype of Phyllidia fontjei sp. nov. and a similarly sized Phyllidia ocellata and these morphologies are compared with the only other detailed histological examination of the Mediterranean Phyllidia flava.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Description of a new subgenus for Himalaea batanga and its new sister species from Xizang Autonomous Region, China (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Amphipyrinae, Psaphidini)
A new subgenus, Macrohimalaea subgen. nov., in the genus Himalaea Hreblay & L. Ronkay, 1998, is established and described for Himalaea (Macrohimalaea) batanga Saldaitis, Benedek & Volynkin, 2022 and for a new species, Himalaea (Macrohimalaea) silvana sp. nov. This new species is the type of the new subgenus. The new subgenus is distinct from the nominotypical one in having antennal pectination and its forewing shape and male genitalia. All four known adult specimens of the genus and their genitalia are illustrated and compared. Their collection localities are mapped.
["Northeast Himalayan subalpine conifer forests ecoregion"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

Taxonomic notes on four closely related spider species of the genus Khorata (Araneae, Pholcidae)
Khorata Huber, 2005 contains 53 species. It is distributed in the Indo-Malayan region. In this study, a new species is described from Guangxi, China: Khorata qianlei Li, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀). This new species is similar to K. digitata Yao & Li, 2010 (Guangxi, China; Vietnam), K. qian Yao & Li, 2019 (Guizhou, China), and K. yuhaoi Xu, Zheng & Yao, 2020 (Guizhou and Yunnan, China). Taxonomic keys for distinguishing these four closely related species and a distribution map of all species in this genus are provided. In addition, 37 species of this genus are classified into nine formal species groups.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

On the taxonomy of the subgenera Tatsipolia, Chalapolia, and Kitapolia of the genus Dasypolia Guenée with the description of six new species from southern Xizang, China (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
Species of the subgenus Tatsipolia Benedek, Behounek, Floriani & Saldaitis, 2011 of the genus Dasypolia Guenée, 1852 are reviewed and the genus-group names Chalapolia Benedek, Behounek, Floriani & Saldaitis, 2011 and Kitapolia Benedek, Behounek, Floriani & Saldaitis, 2011 previously considered as distinct subgenera of Dasypolia are synonymised with Tatsipolia. Six new species are described from southern Xizang, China: Dasypolia (Tatsipolia) polymorpha sp. nov., Dasypolia (Tatsipolia) intermedia sp. nov., Dasypolia (Tatsipolia) amoena sp. nov., Dasypolia (Tatsipolia) diffusa sp. nov., Dasypolia (Tatsipolia) luxuriosa sp. nov., and Dasypolia (Tatsipolia) ultramontana sp. nov. Adults and male and female genitalia of all species in Dasypolia (Tatsipolia) are illustrated.
["Antitypina"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new species of Anemonefish from French Polynesia, Amphiprion maohiensis, (Pomacentridae, Amphiprioninae), the Polynesian anemonefish
Anemonefishes (Teleostei, Pomacentridae) comprise approximately 28 species of damselfishes that exclusively live symbiotically with sea anemones. Distribution ranges vary, with some species only found in few isolated islands and others with ranges that span almost the entire Indo-Pacific. The orange-fin anemonefish, Amphiprion chrysopterus shows a wide distribution, from Australia to French Polynesia, extending north to Micronesia and the Marshall Islands. Two main color morphs exist, with a morph that displays a white tail and a second morph that has an orange tail. In French Polynesia, only the orange-tail morph is present, while in the rest of the range, the white-tail morph is prevalent, while the orange-tail morph is also present, but very uncommon. Here we assessed the potential presence of a cryptic species in French Polynesia based on morphology, mitochondrial markers, and full genome sequencing. Morphological and genetic results were consistent in identifying a separate group in French Polynesia, which we describe here as a new species: the Polynesian anemonefish, Amphiprion maohiensis.
["Amphiprion maohiensis"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Three new species of the wolf spider genus Sinartoria Wang, Framenau & Zhang, 2021 (Araneae, Lycosidae) from southern China
Three new species of the wolf spider genus Sinartoria Wang, Framenau & Zhang, 2021 are described from China: Sinartoria dui sp. nov. (♂♀, Guangxi), S. maolan sp. nov. (♀, Guizhou) and S. nanling sp. nov. (♀, Guangdong). Morphological descriptions, photographs, illustrations of copulatory organs and a distribution map are provided. Additionally, photographs of living species of this genus are provided for the first time.
["Artoriinae"]

Three new species of Lichomolgella Sars G.O., 1918 (Copepoda, Cyclopoida, Sabelliphilidae) associated with Bryozoa in Korea
Three new species of Lichomolgella Sars G.O., 1918 are described as associates of bryozoan hosts from Korea. In all three species, the endopod of leg 1 is two-segmented, unlike the two previously known species of this genus. As additional diagnostic features, L. exigua sp. nov. has a two-segmented endopod in legs 2 and 3, L. collata sp. nov. has one claw plus two setae on the third segment of the antenna and an inner coxal seta on legs 2 and 3, and L. nudicoxa sp. nov. lacks an inner coxal seta on all swimming legs. The genus Lichomolgella is transferred from the family Lichomolgidae to Sabelliphilidae and can be characterized by several diagnostic features, such as a claw in addition to setae on the second endopodal segment of the antenna, a single-segmented endopod of leg 4 bearing two distal spines, three spines plus five setae on the third exopodal segment of legs 3 and 4, a claw-like proximal scale on the mandibular gnathobase, and a vestigial distal lash of maxilla.
["Copepod associates"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of Anthaxia (Merocratus) Bílý, 1989 (Coleoptera, Buprestidae, Anthaxiini) from Vietnam
A new species of genus Anthaxia (Merocratus) Bílý, 1989 from northern Vietnam is described and illustrated here: Anthaxia (Merocratus) rydzii sp. nov., which belongs to the A. (M.) insulaecola Obenberger, 1944 species group. This medium-sized species (with respect to genus Anthaxia) varies in colour. Its elytra and pronotum could be green to violet, sometimes with a black tinge. It can be distinguished within the species group by the shape and structure of the pronotum, flat frons and, mainly, by missing a notch in the anal sternite which is a significant character and quite uncommon to subgenus Merocratus.
["Anthaxiini"]

Not so deep in the rainforest: two new species of Anastrepha (Diptera, Tephritidae) and a pictorial key to species from Amazonas state, Brazil
Two new species, Anastrepha dorsidentata Uramoto, Zucchi, Araújo & Savaris and A. norrbomi Uramoto, Zucchi, Araújo & Savaris, from a fragment of the Amazon Rainforest in the city of Manaus, state of Amazonas, Brazil, are described and illustrated. Both species were collected in McPhail-type traps hanging from trees on the campus of Federal University of Amazon. A pictorial key to 47 species of Anastrepha recorded in Amazonas state is provided.
["Brazilian Amazon"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of Rhopalopsole (Insecta, Plecoptera, Leuctridae) from the Anhui Province of China and phylogeny of Leuctridae based on mitochondrial genomes
A new species of Leuctridae (Plecoptera) from Anhui Province of China, Rhopalopsole gibba sp. nov., is described and illustrated. The new species is compared to a similar species, R. dicondylica Yang & Du, 2021. We sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of the new species and found a length of 16,157 bp. Phylogenetic analysis based on 10 complete or nearly complete mitogenomes of four genera of Leuctridae from China showed the following phylogenetic relationships: ((Rhopalopsole + Perlomyia) + Paraleuctra) + Leuctra. Finally, the geographical distribution of Leuctridae in China is preliminarily summarized.
["Geographical distribution"]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Two new species and a new record of Comesomatidae (Nematoda, Araeolaimida) from the Southern Ocean
Two new marine nematode species of the genus Sabatieria and a new record of Hopperia beaglense Chen & Vincx, 1998 belonging to the family Comesomatidae are described from the Southern Ocean using morphological and molecular data. Sabatieria cosmonautae sp. nov. is characterized by body length 1786–2230 μm, short cephalic setae, lateral differentiation of body cuticle with sparse punctations starting from amphid to near tail tip, spiral amphidial fovea with three turns, spicules arcuate and 1.2–1.5 cloacal body diameters long, with straight dorso-caudal gubernacular apophyses, and 16 or 17 precloacal supplements. Sabatieria crassilonga sp. nov. is characterized by body length 2628–3613 μm, short cephalic setae, cuticle with lateral differentiation of coarser and irregularly spaced punctations extending from anterior edge of amphid to the tail region, amphidial fovea spiral with 2.5 turns, males with spicules 1.2–1.5 cloacal body diameters long, gubernaculum with a long straight dorso-caudal apophysis, and 20 or 21 fine precloacal supplements. Hopperia beaglense, which was originally described from the Strait of Magellan and the Beagle Channel, is recorded from the Southern Ocean for the first time. Phylogenetic analysis based on concatenated 18S + 28S rRNA sequences places the two new species and the new record within Comesomatidae. The tree topology shows Comesomatidae forming a well-supported monophyletic clade, whereas the genus Sabatieria is not monophyletic.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Corythoichthys quattuordecim, a new pipefish (Teleostei, Syngnathidae) from the Coral Sea
A new species of pipefish, Corythoichthys quattuordecim sp. nov., is described based on five specimens collected from Vanuatu and the Chesterfield Islands, New Caledonia. The species inhabits relatively deeper waters (56–81 m) compared to most of its congeners, which are typically found in shallower habitats. It is distinguished by a unique combination of morphological features, most notably the presence of 14 trunk rings, a rare meristic character within the genus. Additional diagnostic characters include a total of 51–52 body rings, 27 dorsal-fin rays, 5.0–5.75 subdorsal rings, and 16 or 17 pectoral-fin rays. Proportional traits include head length 14.1–17.4% of standard length, snout length 56.5–62.9% of head length, dorsal-fin base length 48.3–54.9% of head length, and snout depth 8.3–15.3% of snout length. The opercle bears a denticulate longitudinal ridge with two or three black vertical stripes, and the dorsal fin originates behind the posterior margin of anal ring. The new species most closely resembles C. amplexus and an undescribed taxon reported by Fricke (2004) but is clearly distinguished from both based on the above characters.
["Corythoichthys amplexus"]
["Aquatic life and conservation", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Phylogeny-based reinterpretation of the genus Blaps Fabricius, 1775 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Blaptinae) from China, with description of two new species
Blaps is the most species-rich genus in the subtribe Blaptina (Tenebrionidae, Blaptinae), with 205 described species. In this study, we reconstructed a preliminary phylogenetic tree based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences from 34 species of Blaps and Nalepa. Based on both molecular and morphological evidence, we propose a new classification for the genus Blaps. Consequently, Blaps (Blaps) holcus Ren, 2016 is transferred from the subgenus Blaps to the subgenus Ablapsis and Nalepa is reinstated as a subgenus of Blaps, Nalepa, stat. resurr. Furthermore, two new species are described and illustrated from China: Blaps (Blaps) pedinoides Li, sp. nov. and Blaps (Nalepa) undulata Li, sp. nov. This work provides valuable molecular and morphological data for the phylogenetic study of the subtribe Blaptina.
["Darkling beetles"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Two new species of the genus Neoproutista Yang & Wu, 1994 (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Derbidae) from southern China, with notes on their host plants
Two new species of the genus Neoproutista Yang & Wu, 1994 (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Derbidae) are described from southern China: N. lobata Lv, Sui & Chen, sp. nov. from Guizhou Province, and N. quinaria Lv, Sui & Chen, sp. nov. from Fujian Province. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and diagnostic comparisons are provided for both new species, with a particular emphasis on the male genital structures that distinguish them from congeners. A revised identification key to all known species of Neoproutista is also presented. A possible host plant is reported for the first time. The discovery of these taxa expands the known diversity and distribution of the genus in the Oriental region, underscoring the richness of derbid planthoppers in subtropical China.
["checklist"]

Scuttle flies (Diptera, Phoridae) collected by mosquito trap from Košice Zoo, Central Europe
In this paper the results of a Phoridae collection from Košice Zoo in eastern Slovakia are reported. An unusual trap method was employed – BG-Sentinel 2 mosquito traps combined with CO2 as an attractant. Between July and October 2023, 73 species of the Phoridae family were recorded, 24 of which are new to the Slovak fauna (1 species from the genus Woodiphora and 23 species from the genus Megaselia). As a result, the total number of Phoridae species documented in Slovakia has increased to 254.
["Faunistic"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Endemic taxon or environmentally induced colour morph? Genetic insights into the insular subspecies of Platyceps najadum (Serpentes, Colubridae) from Kalymnos, Greece
Phenotypic variation, particularly in colouration, is well documented in snake populations across the Balkans, with insular populations often exhibiting distinct morphological traits. Historically, these differences have been used to define subspecies or even new species. However, many such classifications have been revised following genetic analysis. One unresolved taxonomic case involves the subspecies Platyceps najadum kalymnensis (Schneider, 1979), a melanistic taxon endemic to Kalymnos Island, Greece. In this study, we present the first genetic data (both mitochondrial and nuclear) for P. n. kalymnensis, comparing it with populations from the Balkan–Anatolian range to clarify its evolutionary status. Mitochondrial DNA analysis reveales that P. n. kalymnensis clusters closely with the Balkan and Anatolian populations, exhibiting low levels of genetic differentiation. However, nuclear markers reveal distinct allelic variations, suggesting a degree of evolutionary independence, likely influenced by the island’s long-term specific environmental conditions. Our results support the continued recognition of P. n. kalymnensis as a distinct subspecies, though further studies using high-resolution genomic data are needed to better understand its evolutionary trajectory.
["Aegean"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Characterization of 11 complete mitochondrial genomes in Nudibranchia (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
Nudibranchs, also known as sea slugs, represent a high species diversity within Heterobranchia (Mollusca, Gastropoda); however, the systematics within this order remain controversial. The mitochondrial genome has been widely used in the phylogenetic reconstruction of mollusks, but the corresponding data on Nudibranchia are limited, hindering understanding of the phylogenetic relationships of this group. In the present study, the complete mitochondrial genomes of 11 species belonging to 8 families and 10 genera were newly sequenced and compared with the 64 previously published mitogenomes for analysis. All newly sequenced mitogenomes were double-stranded circular molecules ranging from 14,299 to 14,880 bp. A total of 37 genes, including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNA), and 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, were encoded among all species. Of these 37 genes, 24 are encoded on the heavy strand and 13 on the light strand. The mitogenomes showed variations in AT content, GC skew, and AT skew. The gene orders of Nudibranchia indicated that gene transpositions and inversion had occurred within Hypselodoris. Based on the nucleotide sequences of 13 PCGs and 2 rRNA genes, the phylogenetic relationships of Nudibranchia have been reconstructed at family level. The phylogenetic analyses confirmed that Nudibranchia can be divided into Doridina and Cladobranchia with high support. However, the monophyly of Chromodoridoidea within Doridina is rejected due to the isolated positions of Actinocyclidae and Cadlinidae. Within Cladobranchia, the non-monophyly of Fionoidea was revealed since the fionoid group Coryphellidae clusters with Aeolidioidea. Molecular evidence, along with morphological characteristics, indicates that misidentifications of nudibranch species has been frequent in public databases. The present study suggests that the systematics within Nudibranchia needs further revision.
["Heterobranchia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Four new freshwater crab species of the genus Megapleonum Huang, Shih & Ahyong, 2018 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Potamidae) from Guangdong, China
Four new species of the poorly known genus Megapleonum Huang, Shih & Ahyong, 2018, are described from Guangdong Province, China: Megapleonum falx sp. nov. from Huizhou City, M. yangdongense sp. nov. from Yangjiang City, and both M. ferrumequinum sp. nov. and M. wangjiani sp. nov. from Maoming City. These four new species are all morphologically and genetically distinct from each other and the two known congeners Megapleonum ehuangzhang Huang, Shih & Ahyong, 2018 and Megapleonum shenzhen Huang & Mao, 2021. The extremely divergent morphology of the gonopod 1 of these species alone immediately sets them apart, but there are also distinct differences in other characters, including the carapace, ambulatory leg, and maxilliped 3 exopod flagellum. A phylogeny constructed using the mitochondrial 16S rDNA reveals that all species of Megapleonum form a deep-rooted monophyletic group with significant interspecific genetic distances, supporting the generic placement and specific treatments of these new taxa. A key to the species of Megapleonum is also provided.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Synopsis of Chinese Alloperla Banks, 1906 (Plecoptera, Chloroperlidae), with description of a new species
A new species of the genus Alloperla Banks, 1906 (Plecoptera, Chloroperlidae), Alloperla triquetra Rehman, Huo & Du, sp. nov., is described from Liaoning Province, China, with diagnostic features and color images of the adult habitus included. The terminalia of the new species are compared with those of related species, and key similarities and distinguishing characteristics are highlighted. In addition, the male of A. joosti Zwick, 1972 is described from China for the first time, as previous records included only females. Detailed color photographs of the dorsal and ventral views of the epiproct are provided, addressing a gap in the literature where illustrations of the ventral view were previously lacking a critical feature for accurate species identification. Furthermore, color illustrations and supplementary redescriptions of A. mediata (Navás 1925) and A. teleckojensis Šámal, 1939 from Liaoning Province, China are presented. An updated checklist and identification key to males of Chinese Alloperla species are also provided.
["Alloperla triquetra sp. nov."]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

The scorpions of the Estación de Biología Chamela, Jalisco, Mexico with the description of a new species of Mesomexovis (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae) and an identification key
Mesomexovis Gonzalez-Santillan & Prendini, 2013 is a scorpion genus of the Vaejovidae family that comprises seven species, all endemic to Mexico. The present study describes a new species from Estación de Biología Chamela, Jalisco, related to M. occidentalis (Hoffmann, 1931), M. atenango (Francke & Gonzalez-Santillan, 2006), and M. subcristatus (Pocock, 1898). Mesomexovis caxcan sp. nov. differs from these species in several respects. Firstly, the carinae of the pedipalp chelae are vestigial. Secondly, the ventral lateral carinae of metasomal segments I–IV are granular, and the ventral submedian carinae of segments I–IV are costate to granular. A microstructural separation between the subex and the basal carina of the capsular area of the hemispermatophore is described for the first time. Mesomexovis caxcan sp. nov. represents the eighth species of the genus and the fifth reported in the Estación de Biología Chamela. The other scorpions identified in this location are Centruroides chamela Ponce-Saavedra & Francke, 2011, C. elegans (Thorell, 1876) (Buthidae), Konetontli chamelaensis (Williams, 1986), and Thorellius intrepidus (Thorell, 1876) (Vaejovidae).
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

On the species identity of a tropical oyster (Bivalvia, Ostreidae, Dendostrea) invading the eastern Mediterranean Sea
Molecular and morphological data suggest that the Mediterranean populations of the non-indigenous genus Dendostrea are part of a single clade. This clade includes oysters from Rodrigues but is distinct from oysters from Hawaii and Mauritius. Based on morphology and sequence data, the Hawaiian and Mauritian oysters can be referred to as Dendostrea sandvichensis Sowerby, 1871. The Mediterranean/Rodrigues clade, although morphologically very similar to D. sandvichensis, is significantly genetically distant from it and from D. frons and D. folium. As a result, the Mediterranean/Rodrigues clade cannot be assigned to any currently accepted nominal species. However, the statuses of the junior synonyms of D. sandvichensis are based on morphology and are therefore reconsidered with the result that D. crenulifera Sowerby, 1871 is shown to be morphologically very similar to the Mediterranean/Rodrigues clade. Given that the type locality of D. crenulifera is the Red Sea, and that Mediterranean populations are considered tropical invaders, D. crenulifera is a likely candidate name. However, without supporting sequence data from the type locality in the Red Sea, we conservatively conclude that the most appropriate name for the Mediterranean/Rodrigues clade is Dendostrea cf. crenulifera (Sowerby, 1871).
["Alien species"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

The subfamily Attageninae (Coleoptera, Dermestidae) from Saudi Arabia
This study documents the diversity and distribution of the subfamily Attageninae (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) in Saudi Arabia based on the examination of specimens from institutional and private collections, and field surveys using different trapping and collection methods. It enumerates 20 species belonging to two genera, Attagenus (19 species) and Telopes (one species). Six species are newly recorded for the country: Attagenus barbieri Pic, 1946; A. jakli Háva, 2021; A. kadleci Háva, 2012; A. vanharteni Háva, 2009; A. yemensis Háva & Herrmann, 2014; and Telopes tessellatus Reitter, 1887. Morphological examinations led to the exclusion of five previously misidentified species from the Saudi fauna: A. dichrous Roth, 1851; A. fasciolatus (Solsky, 1876); A. heydeni (Reitter, 1881); Telopes obtusus (Gyllenhal in Schönherr, 1808); and Telopes reitteri (Mroczkowski, 1968). The distribution of Attageninae reveals the influence of environmental gradients on species richness, with mid-altitude areas (601–1500 m) serving as biodiversity hotspots, hosting 14 species. Lowland and highland specialists display niche adaptation, with species like A. apicalis and A. logunovi restricted to low altitudes (≤ 600 m) and A. kadleci found exclusively in high-altitude environments (> 2000 m). Approximately 40% of the Attageninae species in Saudi Arabia are found within protected areas. This study identifies five endemic species in the Arabian Peninsula, including one exclusive to Saudi Arabia (A. logunovi). These findings increase the number of known attagenine species by 43% in Saudi Arabia and 7% in the Arabian Peninsula, highlighting the need for systematic surveys and taxonomic revisions to reveal the overlooked biodiversity in the region.
["Arabian Peninsula"]

Karyological analysis of Acanthocephalus ranae (Echinorhynchida): expanding the cytogenetic knowledge in acanthocephalans
This study presents the first comprehensive cytogenetic analysis of the common amphibian parasite Acanthocephalus ranae. A combination of classical cytogenetic methods and molecular techniques, including the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) mapping of ribosomal and histone H3, was conducted. The karyotype consisted of three metacentric autosomes and either one submetacentric X chromosome in males or two submetacentric X chromosomes in females, resulting in a chromosome number of 2n = 7/8 (male/female). FISH mapping revealed that the ribosomal genes are located separately, with 18S rDNA situated on the X chromosomes and 5S rDNA on chromosome pair No. 3. The hybridization signals of histone H3 genes were dispersed across all chromosomes without any discernible pattern. Additionally, differential staining identified GC-rich heterochromatin at the ends of all chromosomes. These findings significantly expand the limited karyotypic data available for acanthocephalan parasites, of which the karyotype and/or chromosome number is known for only 1% of described species, and molecular cytogenetic techniques have been applied in just four species. The karyotype characteristics of A. ranae were also compared with other cytogenetically described thorny-headed worms within the order Echinorhynchida.
["Acanthocephala"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Helminth infection and control"]

Monomorium dine sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Formicidae): a new inquiline social parasite ant species from North America
Among the very rarest of Nearctic ants are three species of inquiline social parasites belonging to the genus Monomorium, namely Monomorium inquilinum DuBois, Monomorium pergandei (Emery), and Monomorium talbotae DuBois. All three species are known only from the type collections. Here, we describe Monomorium dine Cover & Rabeling, sp. nov., from the Navajo Nation in New Mexico, USA, a new species closely similar to the three known social parasites. Like them, M. dine appears to be a workerless inquiline that exploits a free-living Monomorium host. We also provide keys to the queens of the Nearctic Monomorium inquilines, provide the first images of these species, report new collections for Monomorium talbotae DuBois, discuss host-parasite associations, and summarize what is presently known about these mysterious social parasites.
["Brood parasitism"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Revision of the Neotropical species of the hoverfly genus Serichlamys Curran, 1925 (Diptera, Syrphidae, Microdontinae)
The Neotropical species of the hoverfly genus Serichlamys Curran, 1925 are revised. A total number of 14 Neotropical species are recognized, two of which were previously described, namely S. mitis (Curran, 1940) and S. mus (Curran, 1936). The other 12 species are here described for the first time: S. boti Reemer, sp. nov., S. chloraspis Reemer, sp. nov., S. melamitis Reemer, sp. nov., S. mellimitis Reemer, sp. nov., S. pallitarsis Reemer & Mengual, sp. nov., S. serpentiphallus Reemer, sp. nov., S. simpliciphallus Reemer, sp. nov., S. spathulata Reemer, sp. nov., S. trigonoides Reemer, sp. nov., S. varicaudata Reemer & Mengual, sp. nov., S. vexilliphallus Reemer & Mengual, sp. nov., and S. xanthocnemia Reemer, sp. nov. An identification key is provided including all the recognised species. The distribution of the genus in the Neotropical region is shown to be disjunct, with one group of species in the northwest of the South American landmass and another group in southeastern Brazil.
["Ant flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Marsupials (Didelphidae, Mammalia) of Mato Grosso do Sul state (Brazil): taxonomic accounts, species richness, and biogeography
The marsupials of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS) state in southwestern Brazil are still poorly known, with most research being concentrated around the Pantanal wetland. In this work, the marsupial richness was analysed in four different ecoregions of MS, based on more than ten years of sampling using live and pitfall traps, comparing them with published information. Fifteen marsupial species were recorded, adding 117 new records and increasing the previously known richness by more than 50%. These new records represent an increase between 96.7% (Gracilinanus agilis) to 9.1% (Chironectes minimus) of those previously known for the state, with an average increase of 43%. Cryptonanus agricolai is recorded for the first time for MS, but we did not trap Caluromys lanatus and Metachirus myosuros, which were mentioned in the literature. The Cerrado ecoregion (a type of savanna) shows more species than other ecoregions, being the largest ecoregion in the state. A strong faunal turnover was found in the state, from the humid and mild forests of the southeast (Atlantic forest ecoregion) to the more seasonal, dry, and warm forests, shrublands, and grasslands of the northwest (Chiquitano and Pantanal ecoregions). A full taxonomic account and localities of the species recorded are provided and the biogeographical affinities of ecoregions present in MS are discussed.
["Atlantic forest"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Type specimens of recent mammals in Naturalis Biodiversity Center. Part 1 Monotremata, Didelphimorphia, Dasyuromorphia, Peramelemorphia, Diprotodontia, Afrosoricida, Macroscelidea, Hyracoidea, Proboscidea, Scandentia, Primates, Rodentia (Mammalia)
This is the first part of a catalogue containing all known types in the mammal collection of Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands, covering the orders Monotremata to Rodentia in the sequence according to Wilson and Reeder (2005). The remaining orders will be treated in the second part later. The catalogue began in the early 1990s as a basic inventory using historic catalogues. Chris Smeenk, then curator of the mammal collection, researched the types until his death in 2017. The current authors continued his work, resulting in the present publication. We discuss in this first part 427 names. For 341 of these, Naturalis holds name-bearing types. For Sciurus erythrogenys Schlegel, 1863 and Macroxus schlegelii Gray, 1867 we formally designate the lectotypes.
["Naturalis Biodiversity Center"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

A new species of Pseudechinopsyllus George, 2006 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Cletodidae) from Campos Basin, Brazil (southwest Atlantic Ocean), with remarks on the phylogeny of the genus
The discovery and description of a new representative of the Ceratonotus group (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Cletodidae T. Scott) in the Grussaí Canyon off the coast of Brazil opened up the possibility of clarifying the relationship between Echinopsyllus Sars and Pseudechinopsyllus George. Pseudechinopsyllus andrei sp. nov. is characterised by several autapomorphies, including (a) the extensive development of long spinules on the second and third segment of the female antennule, and the strong respectively extreme elongation of (b) the exopod and (c) the setophore on the female P5. Synapomorphies shared with P. sindemarkae include (d) the formation of long spinules at the bases of P2–P4 as well as (e) on exp1 of the P2, and (f) the strong elongation of a tube pore on P2 exp2. Furthermore, the sister group relationship of Pseudechinopsyllus and Echinopsyllus could be substantiated by eleven synapomorphies, among them (g) the large body size, (h) the development of long, rigid cephalothoracic ventrolateral anterior and posterior processes and (i) the loss of the syncoxal seta on the maxilliped. The present study represents a further step towards clarifying the systematic relationships within the Ceratonotus group. A key to the species is provided.
["Cletodinae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Two new species of Danaceothrix Majer, 1989 (Coleoptera, Dasytidae) from Xizang, China
Two new dasytid species of the genus Danaceothrix Majer, 1989 are discovered from Xizang, China and described under the names of D. medogense sp. nov. and D. xizangense sp. nov. They are illustrated with habitus, ultimate abdominal tergite and sternite, and genitalia of both sexes. The generic diagnosis is updated. A key for identification and a distribution map of all Danaceothrix species are provided.
["Alpha taxonomy"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Description of a new species of Pseudobornella Baba, 1932 (Gastropoda, Nudibranchia, Dendronotidae) from the Yellow Sea
The genus Pseudobornella Baba, 1932 (Gastropoda, Nudibranchia, Dendronotidae), which was previously thought to be monotypic and restricted to the Western Pacific, is here expanded with the description of a second species, Pseudobornella qingdaoensis sp. nov., discovered in the Yellow Sea, China. The new species is similar in general body shape to its sole congener, P. orientalis Baba, 1932, but these species can be distinguished based on both external morphology and internal anatomy. Phylogenetic analyses reconstructed by Bayesian inference and maximum-likelihood methods using concatenated mitochondrial (COI, 16S rRNA) and nuclear (H3) genes and species delimitation analyses support the monophyly of Pseudobornella as well as the separation of the two known species.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

Two new species of the spider genus Songthela (Mesothelae, Liphistiidae) from Hunan Province, China
Two new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Songthela Ono, 2000, which were collected from Hunan Province, China, are described based on specimens of both sexes: S. dongta sp. nov. (♂♀), and S. lixi sp. nov. (♂♀). Songthela dongta sp. nov. is assigned to the bispina-group, while S. lixi sp. nov. belongs to the unispina-group, based on the morphology of male palps and female genitalia. We also provide mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences for species identification and calculate the intra- and interspecific genetic distance among these two new species and 26 known Songthela species. These molecular data highlight distinct genetic divergence between the two new species and their congeners, facilitating future species delimitation. This study not only expands the known diversity of Songthela, but also contributes to a growing framework for understanding biogeographic patterns and evolutionary processes in ancient spider lineages.
["Araneae"]

Description of two new species of Chiloglanis (Teleostei, Mochokidae) from the Eastern Zimbabwe Highlands freshwater ecoregion: an overlooked hotspot of rheophilic fishes
Growing evidence indicates that species diversity within the genus Chiloglanis Peters 1868 is poorly resolved and major taxonomic revisions are required. By integrating genetic and morphological analyses, this study describes two new Chiloglanis species from the Eastern Zimbabwe Highlands (EZH) freshwater ecoregion, a region that, until only recently, had been poorly-explored in terms of its ichthyological diversity. Chiloglanis asperocutis Mutizwa, Bragança & Chakona, sp. nov. is distinguished from other southern African congeners by a combination of characters, including ridge-like tubercles distributed on the dorsal and lateral surfaces of the head and body giving the skin a conspicuously rough texture, ten closely packed mandibular teeth, deeply forked caudal fin and a high number of primary premaxillary teeth (68–128). Chiloglanis compactus Mutizwa, Bragança & Chakona, sp. nov., attains the smallest size (> 46 mm SL) of all currently known congeners in southern Africa. It is distinguished from all the other congeners from the region by a combination of characters; the possession of seven pectoral fin rays, conical tubercles distributed across the dorsal and lateral surface of the head and body, eight widely spaced mandibular teeth, a shallow forked caudal fin with rounded lobes, a low number of primary premaxillary teeth (31–53) and fewer dorsal fin rays (5). These two species are distributed in both the Buzi and Pungwe River systems. The study is the first in a series of publications that will provide formal descriptions of a number of deeply divergent lineages (candidate species) identified in previous studies from southern Africa. The persistence of the unique riverine fauna in the EZH is threatened by multiple impacts that are altering the hydrological regime of the rivers and streams as well as habitat degradation and excessive sedimentation from gold panning and agricultural activities.
["Afromontane streams"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Expanding the taxonomy of crab spiders (Araneae, Thomisidae) in Sumatra: a new genus, five new species, and regional records
The taxonomy of crab spiders (Thomisidae) has been the focus of many reviews, adding new genera such as Ibana and Crockeria while synonymising Ascurisoma with Cebrenninus, and describing many new species. A collection of crab spiders from Jambi Province (Sumatra, Indonesia) revealed further diversity, resulting in the description of a new genus, Rangkayo Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, gen. nov., and five new species: Crockeria neofelis Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, sp. nov. (♂♀), Ibana svarnadvipa Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, sp. nov. (♂♀), Pharta roseomaculata Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, sp. nov. (♀), Rangkayo hitam Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, sp. nov. (♂♀), and Rangkayo perkaso Dhiya’ulhaq & Benjamin, sp. nov. (♂♀). Additionally, new records of Angaeus christae Benjamin, 2013 (♂), Angaeus verrucosus Benjamin, 2017 (♂), Crockeria kinabalu Benjamin, 2016 (♂), Epidius elongatus Benjamin, 2017 (♂), and Pharta bimaculata Thorell, 1891 (♂♀) are provided for Sumatra, as well as high-resolution images of Cebrenninus magnus Benjamin, 2016 (♂) and Cebrenninus rugosus Simon, 1887 (♀). The present study highlights the considerable biodiversity of tropical crab spiders and underscores the importance of continued taxonomic and ecological research in Southeast Asia in general, and the Indonesian archipelago in particular.

Endoxocrinus (Diplocrinus) kexuei, a new species of stalked crinoid (Echinodermata, Crinoidea, Isocrinida, Balanocrinidae) from rotten wood in the cold seep area of the Taixinan Basin, South China Sea
A new species of stalked crinoid, Endoxocrinus (Diplocrinus) kexuei sp. nov. belonging to the family Balanocrinidae, is described from cold seeps in the South China Sea. The general appearance of the new species is similar to E. (Diplocrinus) alternicirrus, but can be distinguished from its congener in both morphological characteristics and significant genetic divergences. Endoxocrinus (Diplocrinus) kexuei sp. nov. shows cryptosymplexies without marked symmorphy, and an axial canal usually incompletely filled with a lattice needlelike network, preserving an irregular secondary lumen. The new species attribution is well supported by genetic distance based on the mitochondrial c oxidase subunit I (COI), and molecular phylogenetic analyses based on COI and 16S rRNA. This discovery enhances our understanding of species diversity of Endoxocrinus crinoids in the South China Sea.
["Cold seeps"]
["Methane Hydrates and Related Phenomena", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

A newly discovered species of the genus Scorpiops Peters, 1861, subgenus Euscorpiops Vachon, 1980 from Doi Phu Kha National Park, Thailand (Scorpiones, Scorpiopidae)
A new scorpion species, Scorpiops (Euscorpiops) doiphukha sp. nov., belonging to the family Scorpiopidae Kraepelin, 1905, is described based on 12 specimens of both sexes (three adults and nine immatures) collected in Doi Phu Kha National Park, Nan Province, Thailand. The new species presents key features exhibited by scorpions of the subgenus Euscorpiops and can be characterized notably by a large size, a sexual dimorphism strongly marked with male pedipalps elongated, a distinct trichobothrial pattern and other morphological features. This new taxon represents the 115th species among the currently recognized species for the genus Scorpiops Peters, 1861, and the 44th species described for the subgenus Euscorpiops Vachon, 1980. It is likely an endemic element of Thailand’s scorpion fauna, raising the number of known Scorpiops (Euscorpiops) species in the country to 13. Ecological and distributional aspects of the new species are discussed and compared with closely related Scorpiops species, highlighting its distinctiveness within the genus.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

The taxonomy of Cyrtodactylus consobrinus (Peters, 1871) (Squamata, Gekkonidae) and the description of a new species from the Thai-Malay Peninsula
Phylogenetic analyses based on 1459 base pairs of the mitochondrial gene ND2 and its flanking tRNAs indicate that Cyrtodactylus consobrinus from the type locality in Sarawak, East Malaysia (Borneo) and C. consobrinus from Peninsular Malaysia are not conspecific. Both populations as well as C. hutan from East Malaysia form a strongly supported monophyletic group even though their relationships to one another remain unresolved. Cyrtodactylus consobrinus from peninsular Malaysia is described herein as the new species C. peninsularis sp. nov. whose type locality is Gunung Belumut, Johor State. Cyrtodactylus peninsularis sp. nov. is diagnosable from all other species in the malayanus group by having statistically different morphospatial positions in multiple factor analyses (MFA) based on size-corrected morphometric and meristic characters. ANOVA analyses of these characters recovered significantly different mean values between C. peninsularis sp. nov. and varying combinations of all other malayanus group species across several size-corrected morphometric and meristic characters. Genetic variation within C. peninsularis sp. nov. is geographically structured across six well supported monophyletic mitochondrial lineages bearing an uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence ranging from 0.97–4.5%. Despite its well supported phylogeographic structure, PCAs and ANOVAs recovered statistically weak morphological separation among the lineages and as such, all are considered conspecific pending a genomic analysis. The phylogeographic structure within the forest-dwelling C. peninsularis sp. nov. is quite similar to that of the stream-adapted ranid frog genus Amolops and less so to that of the microhabitat specialists of the C. pulchellus group and the forest generalist C. quadrivirgatus, all of whom are sympatric across Peninsular Malaysia.
["Bent-toed Gecko"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new barracudina (Aulopiformes, Paralepididae, Stemonosudis) from Somalia, with additional records of S. siliquiventer from the Caribbean Sea
A new species, Stemonosudis adenensis sp. nov., of slender barracudina is described based on a specimen collected off Somalia, Western Indian Ocean. The new species differs from its congeners by having a uniformly brown body, without distinct black patches; nostrils slightly before the posterior end of the maxilla; anus above the tip of the appressed pelvic fin; lateral-line scales: prepelvic 39, predorsal 48, preanal 59, total 81; vertebrae: prepelvic 38, prehaemal 42, predorsal 46, preanal 59, caudal 53, and total 95; and total gill rakers 68. Additional records of Stemonosudis siliquiventer Post, 1970 from the Caribbean Sea are also provided.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Two new species and additional records of the genus Asiageodromicus Shavrin, 2024 from Xizang, southwest China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Omaliinae)
Asiageodromicus dawai Yang & Peng, sp. nov. (Xizang: Langkazi) and Asiageodromicus zhangi Yang & Peng, sp. nov. (Xizang: Cuona) are described and illustrated. Additional records of A. namucuoicus (Cheng & Peng, 2020) are reported. A key to the Chinese species of the genus Asiageodromicus Shavrin, 2024 is given.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A revision of the four Afrotropical and Palaearctic Sphyracephala Say (Diptera, Diopsidae) with an illustrated overview of the other five Sphyracephala
In the Afrotropical Region, Sphyracephala beccarii (Rondani) and S. munroi Curran are found, the former just extending into the Palaearctic Region. In the latter region, S. babadjanidesi Zaitzev occurs in the Balkan and Caucasus Regions and S. nigrimana Loew in Far Eastern Russia and North-Eastern China. The European stalk-eyed fly S. europaea Papp & Földvári is proposed as junior synonym of the Eurasian stalk-eyed fly S. babadjanidesi. In North America S. brevicornis (Say) and S. subbifasciata Fitch occur. The four true Holarctic Sphyracephala are shown to reach their northern limits between 45°30'N and 48°20'N. These species hibernate and show characteristic clustering behaviour in spring and autumn. The four Palaearctic and Afrotropical Sphyracephala are redescribed and extensively illustrated. A key is given to all nine Sphyracephala presently recognised. The subdivisions within the genus are discussed. A cladogram, based on morphological, molecular, wing morphometric and allometric considerations, is presented. It shows the two species groups recognised. Each species group is divided into two subtaxa. Geometric morphometric analysis supports the grouping in four subtaxa as well as the synonymy of S. babadjanidesi and S. europaea. In Sphyracephala, both sexual monomorphism and dimorphism with relation to eye span occur. The allometric lines for males and females of eight species are compared. A clear link is found between allometric slopes and the four subtaxa distinguished. In Sphyracephala, female-biased, balanced, and male-biased sex ratios are found. A remarkable case of female-biased sex ratio distortion is reported for Sphyracephala beccarii. In Continental Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, a balanced sex ratio was found, while in Madagascar a female-biased 2:1 ratio was found. This represents the first case of a female-biased sex-ratio in a geographically isolated population of a monomorphic diopsid.
["Allometry"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

On small huntsman spiders (Araneae, Philodromidae) occurring in Guizhou and Hubei provinces, China
Spiders of the family Philodromidae Thorell, 1869 from Guizhou and Hubei provinces, China are studied. A total of three genera and seven species are reported and illustrated, comprising Sinodromus lanyue sp. nov. (newly recorded genus for Hubei), and all known species from both provinces: Philodromus auricomus L. Koch, 1878, P. guiyang Long & Yu, 2022, P. subaureolus Bösenberg & Strand, 1906, P. paiki Jang, Lee, Yoo & Kim, 2024 (the previously records of P. spinitarsis Simon, 1895 from Guizhou and Hubei are presumed to be misidentifications, and should belong to P. paiki), P. rufus Walckenaer, 1826 (new record for Hubei) and Tibellus japonicus Efimik, 1999 (new record for Hubei). Detailed descriptions, diagnoses, and illustrations of S. lanyue sp. nov. and P. guiyang are given, and the male of P. guiyang is diagnosed and described in English for the first time. The other five species are also re-illustrated. Their DNA barcodes were obtained for species delimitation, matching of sexes and future use.

The Dacini fruit flies of Borneo: an annotated checklist with 89 species including three new to science (Tephritidae, Dacinae)
Fruit flies of the tribe Dacini (Tephritidae) include many agricultural pests, but also crucial pollinators of orchids and other plants. Surveys for Dacini fruit flies were conducted using methyl eugenol, cue lure, and zingerone as male attractants across Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia in 2018 and 2019, in habitats ranging from primary forest in highly protected Conservation Areas, selectively logged forest, secondary forest, and highly disturbed sites. Because 2019 was a mast year with mass fruiting, our surveys of that year collected more than 33,000 flies, compared to just more than 500 flies in 2018 – with similar trapping efforts. Our work adds 46 species to the 43 previously known from Borneo, bringing the total for the island to 89. Three new species are described: Bactrocera (Bactrocera) melanobivittata Doorenweerd, sp. nov., Dacus (Mellesis) danumensis Doorenweerd, sp. nov., and Zeugodacus (Zeugodacus) cataracta Doorenweerd, sp. nov. The new species are only found in conservation areas; B. melanobivittata is attracted to methyl eugenol and D. danumensis and Z. cataracta are attracted to zingerone. A discussion on how biogeographic affinities of the species in the checklist support a strong biogeographic boundary across Wallacea is provided, significant records are highlighted, and the relevance of these fly species for protecting agriculture as well as native ecosystems is discussed.
["Bactrocera"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new species of Nitocrella (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from a spring in Loei Province, northeastern Thailand
Two new species of the genus Nitocrella are described from a karstic spring in Loei Province, northeast Thailand. They are the first representatives of the genus Nitocrella Chappuis, 1924, described from Thailand. Nitocrella grandicaudis sp. nov. and N. thailandensis sp. nov. show the peculiar shapes of the inner element of the male P1 basis, the basis of the mandible, and the proximal endite of the maxilla, differing from their congeners. While N. grandicaudis sp. nov. belongs to the chappuisi group according to the absence of a proximal inner seta on the third exopodal segment of the fourth swimming leg, N. thailandensis sp. nov. belongs to the vasconica group because the seta is present on the segment. Despite the low degree of differentiation in morphological characters, the shape of the female caudal ramus and the proximal seta of the male fifth segment of the antennule suggest that N. grandicaudis sp. nov. differs significantly from the other new species in its mating behavior. A detailed description and illustrations of two new species are provided, as well as a discussion on the divergence of both new species. Some comments on the basic understanding of the reproductive behavior of Harpacticoida are included.
["Ameiridae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

The complete mitochondrial genome of Siphonaria japonica (Heterobranchia, Siphonariidae) and its phylogenetic implications
The gastropod Siphonaria japonica, belonging to the family Siphonariidae, is an important grazer in the rocky intertidal zone of China, possessing significant ecological functions and medicinal value. To enrich the diversity of mitochondrial genomes in Gastropoda and to gain insights into their phylogenetic relationships, the mitochondrial genome of S. japonica (13,966 bp) was sequenced using next-generation sequencing. The genome comprises 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNA genes; the gene organization, nucleotide composition, and codon usage are consistent with other Heterobranchia species. Notably, comparisons of mitochondrial gene rearrangements indicated that Siphonariidae exhibit extensive and irregular rearrangements within Heterobranchia. Further, we reconstructed the most comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of Gastropoda based on 13 concatenated protein-coding genes. Each subclass of Gastropoda formed a monophyletic clade, with Heterobranchia positioned at the base of the tree, and S. japonica has a sister relationship with S. pectinata. The findings of this study will contribute to a better understanding of the characteristics of the S. japonica mitogenome, provide valuable insights into the phylogenetic relationships within Gastropoda, and underscore the utility of mitochondrial genomes in systematics.
["Heterobranchia"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Review of the wolf spider genus Acantholycosa Dahl, 1908 from China (Araneae, Lycosidae)
The genus Acantholycosa Dahl, 1908 from China is reviewed, including five species: A. aborigenica Zyuzin & Marusik, 1988, A. lignaria (Clerck, 1757), A. sterneri (Marusik, 1993), A. zang sp. nov. (♂♀) and A. zhangi sp. nov. (♂♀). Acantholycosa aborigenica and A. sterneri are recorded from China for the first time. Detailed descriptions are presented, along with photos of the habitus and copulatory organs, and a distribution map.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Lecanodiaspis Targioni Tozzetti, 1869 (Hemiptera, Coccoidea, Lecanodiaspididae), with an updated checklist of the false pit scales of China
A new species of false pit scale (Hemiptera, Coccoidea, Lecanodiaspididae), Lecanodiaspis jiangxiensis Zhang & Wang, sp. nov., collected on Castanea mollissima Blume (Fagaceae) in Jiangxi, south China, is described and illustrated based on the morphology of the adult female. A taxonomic key and an updated checklist of false pit scales known from China are provided.
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Geometric morphometric characterization of the Balkan alpine grasshopper genus Oropodisma Uvarov, 1942 (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Melanoplinae), with description of two new species
In this study, we employ a geometric morphometric approach to quantify morphological differences among taxa of the genus Oropodisma Uvarov,1942, a complex of alpine grasshoppers comprising several narrow endemic species distributed across different mountain ranges of the Balkan Peninsula. The genus was described by Uvarov in 1942 and currently includes 10 recognized species, primarily distinguished by subtle differences in the shape of the male phallus apex and furculae. Some populations from central Greece exhibit an uncertain taxonomic status, suggesting the possible existence of undescribed species. Quantitative morphological comparisons with specimens collected from the type localities of all currently recognized taxa revealed the presence of two new species in the Pindus Range, Greece: O. tzoumerkae sp. nov. from Mount Tzoumerka and O. agrafae sp. nov. from Mount Agrafa. Geometric morphometric analyses indicate that O. tymphrestosi and O. willemsei, which occur in adjacent mountain ranges from central Greece, do not exhibit statistically significant differences in the shapes of either the phallus apex or the furculae. This finding raises doubts about their current taxonomic status but may also reflect the limitations of geometric morphometric approaches in capturing subtle differences in the complex structures that characterize male genitalia. Overall, our analyses highlight the value of quantitative approaches in formally reassessing the taxonomic status of species complexes. The description of two new and geographically restricted species within Oropodisma further emphasizes the role of Mediterranean mountains as key centers of microgeographic speciation for alpine biotas.
["Alpine ecosystems"]
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Three new species and one new record of Wilkinsonellus Mason (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from the Australo-Oriental region
The small microgastrine braconid genus Wilkinsonellus Mason was known previously from parts of the Australo-Oriental region, but it has never been reported from Borneo (Brunei and Sarawak), Peninsular Malaysia, Seram, or the Solomon Islands before this study. Here we describe three new species, namely, Wilkinsonellus carinatus Liu & Polaszek, sp. nov. from Brunei, Sarawak, and Seram; Wilkinsonellus paracorpustriacolor Liu & Polaszek, sp. nov. from Sarawak; and Wilkinsonellus rugiscutum Liu & Polaszek, sp. nov. from Peninsular Malaysia. We also present a new distribution record of Wilkinsonellus amplus Austin & Dangerfield from the Solomon Islands, along with a key to 21 species known from the Australo-Oriental region.
["Borneo"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

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

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

Diversity survey of Pholcus spiders (Araneae, Pholcidae) from eastern Sichuan and neighboring areas, with descriptions of six new species
Thirteen spider species of the genus Pholcus Walckenaer, 1805 are reported from a diversity survey in eastern Sichuan and neighboring areas (northeastern Yunnan and western Guizhou). They belong to three species groups and include six newly described species: Pholcus qiaojia Li, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan) in the bidentatus group; P. aba Li, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan) and P. wenchuan Li, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan) in the crypticolens group; P. mengding Li, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan), P. miyi Li, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan) and P. yaan Li, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan) in the yichengicus group. P. bidentatus Zhu, Zhang, Zhang & Chen, 2005 is recorded from Yunnan for the first time and P. kunming Zhang & Zhu, 2009 is recorded from Guizhou and Sichuan for the first time. Detailed diagnoses, descriptions, photomicroscope images, and DNA barcodes of all newly described species are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

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

Three new species of Orchestina Simon, 1882 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Xizang, China
The genus Orchestina is recorded for the first time from Xizang, China. One known species and three new species are reported: Orchestina colubrina Liu, Henrard & Xu, 2019 (♂♀), Orchestina lini Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), Orchestina wuzu Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Orchestina yigong Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂).
["Goblin spiders"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Life history of Papilio (Druryia) meriones Felder & Felder (Lepidoptera, Papilionidae) from Madagascar
The swallowtail butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) have been researched extensively as a model species in biology, ecology, and conservation biology. During a recent expedition to Central and South Madagascar, eggs of a Madagascan-specific swallowtail butterfly, Papilio meriones, were collected. After a successful rearing experiment, the life history of P. meriones is described with all developmental stages illustrated.
["Development"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Pseudobarbus outeniqua sp. nov., a new redfin species (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) from the Cape Fold Ecoregion of South Africa
Previous DNA-based studies identified four genetic lineages within Pseudobarbus afer: (i) the Mandela lineage confined to the Sundays, Swartkops, and Baakens river systems, (ii) the Krom lineage endemic to the Krom River system, (iii) the St Francis lineage occurring in the Gamtoos and adjacent river systems, and (iv) the Forest lineage occurring in several southern coastal river systems from the Tsitsikamma to the Klein Brak river system. Subsequent detailed morphological evaluation provided a redescription of P. afer s.s. (Mandela lineage), supported revalidation of P. senticeps (Krom lineage) and description of a new species, P. swartzi (St Francis lineage). The present study builds on these earlier findings and provides a formal description of the Forest lineage as a new species for science, Pseudobarbus outeniqua sp. nov. The new species differs from the aforementioned congeners by the conspicuous pigmentation on the centre of the scales which gives it a distinctive speckled hen pattern. The new species thus closely resembles the small-scale redfin, P. asper, in colour pattern, but it is readily separated from this species by genetic characters and fewer number of scales in predorsal region (16–17, mode 16 vs 18–26, mode 20–23) and around the caudal peduncle (14–15, mode 15 vs 16–22, mode 18–20). A revised key for the single-barbeled redfins is presented.
["Conservation"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

The Central American millipede family Rhachodesmidae in Costa Rica, with the description of a new species of Aceratophallus Carl, 1902 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida)
The rather small millipede family Rhachodesmidae is endemic to Central America, and is represented in Costa Rica by only four species of the genus Aceratophallus, including A. logunovi sp. nov. An illustrated key is given to all four species of Rhachodesmidae (= Aceratophallus) presently known to occur in Costa Rica. The first detailed iconography of a species of Aceratophallus is provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Diversity of jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae) in the Jinggangshan National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi, China
A list of 94 salticid species of 48 genera collected from Jinggangshan National Nature Reserve in Jiangxi Province is provided. Four new salticid species are diagnosed, described, and illustrated: Charippus wangzuo K. Liu, sp. nov., Cytaea hezizhen K. Liu, sp. nov., Orientattus chushu K. Liu, sp. nov. and Yaginumanis yuanwencai K. Liu, sp. nov.. Previously unknown females of Eupoa pengi Liu, 2021, and Yaginumaella lobata Peng, Tso & Li, 2002 are described for the first time. In contrast, the data also shows that there are many nature reserves with a high percentage of unknown spider species in need of further intensive and extensive survey. Hence, our study will make a significant contribution to our understanding of species diversity and the importance of the reserve.

Three new genera of wolf spiders (Araneae, Lycosidae) living on the forest floor in East Asia
Three new genera as well as one new species belonging to Lycosidae are described, Houcosa gen. nov. (type species: Houcosa zhaoi sp. nov., ♂♀), Kuncosa gen. nov. (type species: Arctosa ningboensis Yin, Bao & Zhang, 1996) and Loongcosa gen. nov. (type species: Pardosa dentitegulum Yin, Peng, Xie, Bao & Wang, 1997). Seven new combinations are proposed: Kuncosa fujiii (Tanaka, 1985), comb. nov., K. hikosanensis (Tanaka, 1985), comb. nov., K. kwangreungensis (Paik & Tanaka, 1986), comb. nov., K. ningboensis (Yin, Bao & Zhang, 1996), comb. nov. (all ex. Arctosa), K. zhui (Yu & Song, 1988), comb. nov., Loongcosa dentitegulum (Yin, Peng, Xie, Bao & Wang, 1997), comb. nov. and L. wuyiensis (Yu & Song, 1988), comb. nov. (all ex. Pardosa). The male of Kuncosa ningboensis and the female of Loongcosa dentitegulum are described for the first time. Detailed descriptions of copulatory organs and somatic features of the new and known species are provided, along with photographs and a distribution map.
["Aranei"]

Three new species of Psectrocladius Kieffer (Diptera, Chironomidae) from China
Three new species within the genus Psectrocladius Kieffer, 1906, namely Psectrocladius (Mesopsectrocladius) wangi Liu, sp. nov., Psectrocladius (Psectrocladius) gracilis Liu, sp. nov., and Psectrocladius (Psectrocladius) malum Liu, sp. nov., are described and illustrated based on morphological characteristics of adult male specimens. Furthermore, a comprehensive taxonomic key for the identification of adult males of all known Psectrocladius species recorded in China is provided.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Agrotis villenensis—a new species of Noctuinae (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) from the southeastern Iberian Peninsula
Agrotis villenensis sp. nov. is described from the Iberian Peninsula. Differential superficial, genital and genetic (barcode) characters from its closest Iberian and European relative species, Agrotis vestigialis (Hufnagel, 1766), are presented. Morphologically, the new species is best characterized in the male genitalia by the shape of the basal vesica and the presence of a median diverticulum and in the female genitalia by its comparatively long appendix bursae. The barcode of A. villenensis differs from those of related species and is assigned a unique BIN.
["DNA barcode"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

An annotated checklist of the psyllids (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) of Norfolk Island with keys to species, new records, and descriptions of two new endemic species
Norfolk Island is a small, isolated archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, 1400 km east of the Australian mainland. The history of human colonisation and land use on the island has resulted in a substantial reduction in the extent and quality of indigenous habitat. A quarantine survey of Norfolk Island in 2012–2014 provided the first records of psyllid species, reporting six taxa from the island. Additional collection records are provided that increase the number to 14 species, of which nine are regarded as adventive, four as native of which two are endemic, and one whose additional distribution is unknown. Two species are formally described here and are the first psyllid species to be described from Norfolk Island. These new species, Pseudophacopteron aewagriini Percy & Martoni, sp. nov. (Aphalaridae) and Acizzia aliceae Percy & Martoni, sp. nov. (Psyllidae) are both considered endemic to Norfolk Island and are associated with native plants, the endemic Alyxia gynopogon (Apocynaceae) and the native Dodonaea viscosa (Sapindaceae), respectively. In addition to an updated checklist, identification keys to adults and immatures of the psyllids found on Norfolk Island and DNA barcodes for all species are provided. Both new species have had complete mitochondrial genomes sequenced in a previous study and here a full annotation of the mitochondrial genome of Acizzia aliceae Percy & Martoni, sp. nov. is supplied. Lastly, the barcode data was analysed in a maximum likelihood constraint framework with previous genome data to investigate the phylogenetic origins of the Norfolk Island taxa.
["Acizzia"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Bees of subfamily Nomiinae (Hymenoptera, Halictidae) from Southern Punjab, Pakistan
To date, 26 species of the subfamily Nomiinae are known to occur in Pakistan. Among these, most of the species have been reported from the northern parts of Punjab, particularly the Pothwar region. In this study, sweat bees from the subfamily Nomiinae were collected from six districts of southern Punjab, Pakistan, to identify their taxonomic diversity. A total of nine species from four genera i.e., Austronomia Michener, 1965, Lipotriches Gerstaecker, 1858, Nomia Letreille, 1804, and Pseudapis Kirby, 1900 were identified. These species were Austronomia pilipes (Smith, 1875), Lipotriches (Armatriches) fervida (Smith, 1875), L. (Lipotriches) fulvinerva (Cameron, 1907), Nomia (Leuconomia) interstitialis Cameron, 1898, N. (Nomia) curvipes (Fabricius, 1793), N. (Hoplonomia) westwoodi (Gribodo, 1894), Pseudapis (Pseudapis) nilotica (Smith, 1875), P. (Pseudapis) oxybeloides (Smith, 1875), and P. (Nomiapis) bispinosa (Brulle, 1832). All the bee species except P. oxybeloides are reported for the first time from southern Punjab, Pakistan. A key to the genera of the subfamily Nomiinae, species, diagnoses, floral hosts, and distributions are provided. Moreover, habitus photographs and male genitalia illustrations are provided for each species except L. fervida and L. fulvinerva, as no male specimens were collected during the entire study period. This study will be helpful in the establishment of conservation strategies for native bees.
["Austronomia"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Taxonomic review of the millipede genus Touranella Attems, 1937, with a redescription of the type species, T. gracilis Attems, 1937, and descriptions of three new species from Laos (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The flat-back millipede genus Touranella Attems, 1937 is currently comprised of 13 species, including three new ones from Laos: T. chenla Likhitrakarn, sp. nov., T. srisonchaii Likhitrakarn, sp. nov., and T. jaegeri Likhitrakarn, sp. nov. The generic diagnosis is updated, a key is given to all known species, and their distributions are mapped. Additionally, T. gracilis, the type species of Touranella from Vietnam, has been redescribed and illustrated based on type specimens.
["Alogolykini"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Study of Mite Species", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Diversity and host plant utilization of leaf-mining beetles of Chrysomeloidea (Coleoptera) in Japan
The superfamily Chrysomeloidea (Cerambycidae + Chrysomelidae + Megalopodidae) encompasses a diverse phytophagous beetles, whose larvae exhibit internal or external feeding on leaves, wood, or roots of many plants. Through extensive research on leaf-mining insects in Japan, 64 species of Chrysomeloidea were confirmed to engage in leaf-mining behavior during their larval stages infesting tracheophytes, and comprising 2 Cerambycidae, 9 Megalopodidae, and 53 Chrysomelidae. This study presents an overview of the host plants and mining patterns of these 64 leaf-mining beetle species and describes two new species, Sphaeroderma komiana Kato, sp. nov. and Dactylispa adinae Kato, sp. nov. The leaf-mining beetles demonstrate a broad host range including Equisetales, Polypodiales, Cycadales, and 23 orders of angiosperms. Particularly notable diversification was observed on Polypodiales (within Halticorcus), Ranunculaceae (Argopus and Sphaeroderma), Celastraceae (Zeugophora), and Oleaceae (Argopistes). Host specificity greatly varied among the reported 64 beetle species: 29 spp. species-specific; 12 spp. genus-specific; 16 spp. family-specific; 2 spp. order-specific; 5 spp. non-specific even at order level. The five non-specific species (Argopus punctipennis, Sphaeroderma nigricolle, Dactylispa angulosa, Notosacantha ihai, and N. loochooana) are associated with multiple plant orders while maintaining specificity to a small number of genera belonging to phylogenetically distant plant families. This pattern, termed as extended host specificity, suggests recent host shifts across plant families without substantial expansion of host ranges.
["Cerambycidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

One new species and three new records of the leafhopper genus Agnesiella Dworakowska (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae) from China
One new species, Agnesiella (Draberiella) geminicruciata sp. nov., is described and illustrated. Agnesiella (D.) lidia, A. (D.) olena and A. (D.) magda are documented from China for the first time. A key to males of all known species of Agnesiella from China is provided.
["Auchenorrhyncha"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

New species and barcode analysis of Bethylus Latreille (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae) from South Korea
For the first time, Bethylus Latreille, the type genus of Bethylidae (Hymenoptera, Chrysidoidea, Bethylinae), is reported from the Korean Peninsula based on the discovery of a new species, Bethylus colligatus sp. nov., which was collected in Gangwon Province near the Demilitarized Zone. This new species is described and illustrated. A phylogenetic analysis was conducted using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences from common Bethylus species to better understand the evolutionary relationships within the genus. The resulting phylogeny supports the distinction between B. colligatus sp. nov. and other species. Additionally, a key to the species of Bethylus in East Asia is provided.
["Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species and updates on Paravelia Breddin, 1898 (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Veliidae) in Brazil
Paravelia Breddin, 1898 is the most speciose genus of the subfamily Veliinae (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Gerromorpha, Veliidae). It has gone through revisions since the 1990s, with several species being transferred to other genera, and currently contains 46 species distributed from Mexico to Argentina, 35 of which occur in Brazil. Here, we describe P. intervalensis sp. nov. based on material obtained during an expedition carried out in 2023 in the Parque Estadual Intervales, state of São Paulo. The new species can be distinguished from congeners by the the following: body length between approximately 5.1–5.5 mm; head, thorax, and abdomen (except posterior margin of sternum VII) not covered by small black denticles; humeral angle not spinose; forewings without bubble-like structures, with a pair of elongated yellow maculae basally and a small, diamond-shaped, white macula apically; venter of abdomen not covered by punctations; male abdominal sternum VII without projections or lobes; male proctiger without conical process at base, without lateral projections approximately at middle of length; and male paramere with a dorsal notch. We also present new distribution records of P. luederwaldti Rodrigues & Moreira, 2016 and provide an updated key to the Paravelia recorded from Brazil. This study increases the number of species of Paravelia known in Brazil to 36.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of Sinocyclocheilus (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae) from the Beipan-Jiang in Guizhou, China
Sinocyclocheilus zhenningensis sp. nov. from the Dabang-He of the Beipan-Jiang Basin in Zhenning County, Guizhou Province, China, is described based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species can be distinguished morphologically from all congeners in this genus by: (1) normal eyes (5.8%–8.2% SL), presence of pigmentation, with a humpback and no horn structure; (2) pelvic fin rays ii-8, dorsal-fin rays iii-8, stiff and stout last unbranched ray; (3) body depth normal (26.5%–30.1% SL) and covered with irregular black spots, body scaled, but scales buried beneath the skin; (4) lateral line complete, slightly curved ventrally, 42–47 lateral line pored scales; and (5) pectoral fin short, not reaching the anterior base of pelvic fin. Based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cytb) gene phylogenetic tree, S. zhenningensis sp. nov. is strongly supported as sister to the S. cyphotergous-S. multipunctatus subclade. The minimum genetic distance between Sinocyclocheilus zhenningensis sp. nov. and its congeneric species is 3.8%.
["Cavefish"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

The Aranzadi bird Ringing Scheme data bank
The Aranzadi Ringing Scheme (ARS), operated by the Aranzadi Sciences Society, is an official bird-ringing program in Spain. Established in 1949, the data bank of the ARS is published, with the data aggregated to some extent, in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). It is a dataset covering the period from 1950 to nowadays, although ringings—but not recoveries—up to the 1970s remain, in part, to be digitalized. Ringings are carried out in Spain, and only exceptionally in third countries where there is not an official, operative ringing scheme. Recoveries of birds with Aranzadi rings can be potentially collected elsewhere; currently, recoveries of birds have been on all the continents—but not in Oceania and on Antarctica—with in the bounding coordinates of 59.0°N to 33.8°S and 62.8°E to 33.8°W, but > 90% of the records are within Europe. Up to 31 December 2024, the dataset includes 1.8 million records of either ringings or recoveries, all of which are georeferenced. In total 479 taxa are included, of which 430 are species. The rest are subspecies, hybrids, or birds identified only to genus. Twenty-four orders are represented by the data.
["Avian research"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Two new and two known species of the genus Eudorylaimus Andrássy, 1959 (Nematoda, Dorylaimoidea, Qudsianematidae) from Northeast China
Two new and two known species of the genus Eudorylaimus belonging to the family Qudsianematidae are described and illustrated from Northeast China. Eudorylaimus blisterocaudatus sp. nov. is characterized by its 1.0–1.3 mm long body, lip region offset by constriction and 15–17 µm wide; odontostyle 1.0–1.2 times the lip region diameter long, odontophore 1.3–1.5 times the odontostyle length, pharyngeal expansion occupying ~ 41–47% of total neck length; V = 59–63%, uterus tripartite 1.3–3.8 times the corresponding body diameter, vulva post-equatorial, spicules 39–45 µm long, 6–8 irregularly spaced ventromedian supplements, tail conoid, sub-digitate with rounded terminus in both the sexes. Eudorylaimus saccatus sp. nov. is characterized by its 1.1–1.4 mm long body, lip region offset by constriction and 15.0–17.5 µm wide; odontostyle 1.0–1.2 times the lip region diameter long, odontophore 1.3–1.5 times the odontostyle length, pharyngeal expansion occupying ~ 44–48% of total neck length; uterus tripartite, 1.3–2.1 times the corresponding body diameter, V = 62–63.3%; tail conoid, dorsally convex, with sub-digitate terminus in both the sexes and males with 44–48 µm long spicules and 9–11 irregularly spaced ventromedian supplements. Two known species E. meridionalis and E. caudatus are reported for the first time from China and one male specimen of E. caudatus is recorded here for the first time.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Taxonomic review of the genus Zanchius Distant, 1904 (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae) from Vietnam, with the description of a new species and notes on host sharing
The orthotyline plant bug genus Zanchius Distant, 1904 is taxonomically reviewed from Vietnam for the first time with the description of a new species, Zanchius tuehang Kim & Jung, sp. nov. Detailed descriptions and diagnoses of the species are provided, along with a key to the Vietnamese Zanchius species, supported by illustrations and photographs. Notes on host sharing, associations with auchenorrhynchan species, and potential distributions are also included.
["Oriental Region"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

A revision of the parasitoid wasp genus Dolichogenidea Viereck (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) in the Neotropical region, with the description of 102 new species
The parasitoid wasp genus Dolichogenidea is currently the second most speciose within the subfamily Microgastrinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), with 366 world species known so far, but with hundreds awaiting to be described. Here, the fauna of the Neotropical region is revised, with an emphasis in the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica. In addition to 23 species previously recorded from the Neotropics, 102 additional species are described as new, increasing the regional and world richness to 125 and 468 species, respectively. All species are diagnosed and described by using a combination of basic morphology (dichotomous key and brief diagnostic descriptions) and, when available DNA COI barcodes, biology (host data and wasp cocoon strategy), and distribution data. Neither morphology, biology, nor molecular data alone were sufficient to unambiguously separate all taxa, as all approaches were found to have limitations, but the combination of all three approaches provided stronger support to species delimitation. Morphology allowed the inclusion of all known species, therefore building a foundation upon which to improve as more molecular and biological data become available and new species are discovered; however, it was not sufficient (or it was very difficult to use) to separate at least 15% of all species keyed out in the dichotomous key. DNA barcoding was better able to separate species, and it is likely to become the most efficient way to identify species in the near future; however, DNA failed to identify 8.3% of the species with molecular data available, in addition to one third of the described species currently lacking molecular data. Biological data is currently the most incomplete, with only 42% of the species having associated host information, with a strong data availability bias towards ACG specimens. A total of 11 Lepidoptera families are here recorded to be parasitized by Neotropical Dolichogenidea, mainly Depressariidae (34% of all host data available), Gelechiidae (17%), Crambidae (14%), Tortricidae (10%), Thyrididae (8%) and Pyralidae (7%). Most of the wasps seem to be monophagous or at most oligophagous, as 56% are known to only parasitize a single host species, whereas 23% parasitize two host species and 10% parasitize three hosts; in almost all cases, the hosts species belong to one genus (or related genera) in the same Lepidoptera family. Most species of Dolichogenidea are found between 400–1,500 m, but a few have been found at higher elevations, including a few examples higher than 3,000 m (Costa Rica) and 4,000–4,100 m in the Andes (South America). The following nomenclatural acts are proposed: 1) the genus Exoryza is synonymized under Dolichogenidea, syn. nov.; 2) a total of 16 species are transferred to Dolichogenidea as comb. nov., one species formerly in the genus Apanteles: Dolichogenidea croceicornis (Muesebeck, 1958) and all 15 species formerly placed within Exoryza (six of them from the Neotropics): Dolichogenidea asotae (Watanabe, 1932), Dolichogenidea belippicola (Liu & You, 1988), Dolichogenidea hylas (Wilkinson, 1932), Dolichogenidea mariabustosae (Fernandez-Triana, 2016), Dolichogenidea megagaster (de Saeger, 1944), Dolichogenidea minnesota (Mason, 1981), Dolichogenidea monocavus (Valerio & Whitfield, 2004), Dolichogenidea oryzae Walker, 1994, Dolichogenidea reticarina (Song & Chen, 2003), Dolichogenidea richardashleyi (Fernandez-Triana, 2016), Dolichogenidea ritaashleyae (Fernandez-Triana, 2016), Dolichogenidea rosamatarritae (Fernandez-Triana, 2016), Dolichogenidea safranum (Rousse & Gupta, 2013), Dolichogenidea schoenobii (Wilkinson, 1932) and Dolichogenidea yeimycedenoae (Fernandez-Triana, 2016); 3) Dolichogenidea yeimycedenoae (Fernandez-Triana, 2016) becomes a senior secondary homonym of Dolichogenidea yeimycedenoae Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, 2019; therefore, Dolichogenidea cedenoae Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, 2025 is a replacement name for Dolichogenidea yeimycedenoae Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, 2019; 4) the following 102 species, all authored by Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault, are described as sp. nov.: D. aceituno, D. alanflemingi, D. alejandromarini, D. alerce, D. alexamasisae, D. alexandrei, D. alixhamiltonae, D. amazonas, D. anacamposae, D. andreamezae, D. angelsolisi, D. anikenpalolae, D. anniapicadoae, D. annlisterudae, D. annychaverae, D. antioquia, D. antjevirkusae, D. arenal, D. bernardoespinozai, D. beryllacosteae, D. bradzlotnicki, D. caldas, D. carlosalvaradoi, D. carlosviquezi, D. chichicastenango, D. christinaagapakisae, D. claudiadoblesae, D. dole, D. encruzilhada, D. ericpalolai, D. ericsimoni, D. escobarae, D. felipechavarriai, D. frankjoycei, D. fredhicksi, D. helenedumasae, D. heredia, D. ingredolsonae, D. isabelleae, D. isidrochaconi, D. jaimelewisi, D. jasonkelleyi, D. jennyphillipsae, D. jessiehillae, D. johnrobinsoni, D. jorgecarvajali, D. jorgecortesi, D. josephfridmani, D. joshdarfleri, D. juanmatai, D. junhyongkimi, D. kasiiya, D. katiemccluskeyae, D. kenzabaddouae, D. lacochaparamo, D. leahdennisae, D. limoncocha, D. luishamiltoni, D. luzmariaromeroae, D. machupichu, D. mehdirheljari, D. moniqueae, D. moniquegilbertae, D. ninamasisae, D. nothofagus, D. oiketicus, D. palenque, D. papallacta, D. paulfryi, D. pedroleoni, D. puschendorfi, D. putumayo, D. puyo, D. rexhamiltoni, D. robertofernandezi, D. robinsherwoodae, D. robmacewani, D. robpringlei, D. rociocordobae, D. rodrigogamezi, D. ronaldzunigai, D. rubymacpearsae, D. rudyamadori, D. sallydaleyae, D. sarahoconnorae, D. scottmilleri, D. shelleymcsweeneyae, D. sigifredomarini, D. stephmae, D. stevestroudi, D. susanabramsae, D. teremariae, D. tiboshartae, D. timrichi, D. tomdaleyi, D. tristanpalolai, D. tucuman, D. verobrondexae, D. virgendelparamo, D. weaversway, D. yungas, D. yvesbraeti.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New species of Plesioaxymyia Sinclair (Diptera, Axymyiidae) from the Palaearctic Region, including an updated molecular phylogeny of the family
The family Axymyiidae includes four extant genera and nine species known from the Holarctic and Oriental regions, with only one species Mesaxymyia kerteszi (Duda, 1930) occurring in Europe. The genus Plesioaxymyia Sinclair, 2013 was first discovered in Alaska in 1962, but officially described only many years later. Up to now, the genus included one species Plesioaxymyia vespertina Sinclair, 2013, known from two female specimens from western North America. During the study of the Diptera fauna in Paanajarvi National Park (Northwest Russia), one female specimen of Plesioaxymyia, was found. It differs from the Nearctic P. vespertina by details of its female terminalia and is recognized as a new species, herein described as Plesioaxymyia imprevista sp. nov. The biology and geographic distribution of Plesioaxymyia is briefly discussed. The phylogenetic position of the genus, along with the family Axymyiidae is analyzed in the light of new molecular data, including sequences of three mitochondrial (ribosomal 12S and 16S and protein-encoding COI) and three nuclear genes (ribosomal 18S and 28S, protein-encoding CAD) for 72 terminal taxa. Axymyiidae is recovered as a monophyletic group with closest relatives in the infraorder Culicomorpha and Plesioaxymyia imprevista sp. nov. representing the sister taxon to all the other species of Axymyiidae included in the analysis.
["Biology"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Assessing the effect of local heterogeneity on anuran diversity in the Serra da Capivara National Park, Piauí State, Brazil
Anurans are among the most diverse groups of vertebrates globally, and environmental heterogeneity plays a key role in shaping their diversity patterns. This study aimed to update the anuran checklist of the Serra da Capivara National Park, Piauí State, northeastern Brazil, and investigate the influence of local heterogeneity on anuran abundance and richness. We recorded 16 anuran species across five families – Bufonidae, Hylidae, Leptodactylidae, Microhylidae, and Phyllomedusidae – most of which are typical Caatinga species or widely distributed taxa. Our results indicate that local heterogeneity did not significantly affect species richness; however, it had a notable impact on anuran abundance. We highlight the importance of heterogeneous habitats in supporting larger anuran populations and enhancing population stability. This study contributes to the understanding of biodiversity patterns and the primary environmental factors affecting anuran communities in Serra da Capivara National Park, offering insights to inform current and future conservation strategies.
["Abundance"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Mitochondrial phylogenomics of pygmy grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae, Metrodorinae): descriptions of a new genus, two new species, and new synonyms from China
The Chinese wingless brachypronotal pygmy grasshoppers of the subfamily Metrodorinae have often been classified within the genus Macromotettixoides. In this study, two undescribed species of wingless brachypronotal pygmy grasshoppers belonging to Metrodorinae were collected. To elucidate their taxonomic positions, the complete mitochondrial genomes of these two species were sequenced and analyzed. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) from 28 tetrigid mitogenomes. Genetic distances and divergence times were estimated. Our results indicate that one species represents a new genus within Metrodorinae, while the other is a new species of Macromotettixoides. Consequently, a new genus and two new species of Metrodolrinae from China are described and illustrated: Edentatettix Deng, gen. nov. containing Edentatettix leyeensis Deng, sp. nov., and Macromotettixoides yaana Deng, sp. nov. Additionally, five new synonyms are proposed: Hainantettix angustivertex (Zha & Peng, 2021), syn. nov. and Macromotettixoides angustivertex Zha & Peng, 2021, syn. nov. of Hainantettix strictivertex Deng, 2020; Hyboella badagongshanensis Zheng, 2013, syn. nov., Macromotettixoides badagongshanensis (Zheng, 2013), syn. nov., and Macromotettixoides wuyishana Zheng, 2013, syn. nov. of Macromotettixoides jiuwanshanensis Zheng, Wei & Jiang, 2005. For the first time, edentate ovipositors constituting an important taxonomic character within Tetrigidae is reported and discussed.
["Macromotettixoides"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A survey of Belisana spiders (Araneae, Pholcidae) from eastern Sichuan, China
China exhibits remarkable diversity of the spider genus Belisana Thorell, 1898, while Sichuan Province has recorded only one species, Belisana maoer Yao & Li, 2020. In this study, four species were collected in eastern Sichuan by canopy fogging. These comprise two new species, Belisana miyi Wang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. and B. tongjiang Wang, Li & Yao, sp. nov., as well as two known species, B. tongi Zhang, Li & Yao, 2024 and B. yanhe Chen, Zhang & Zhu, 2009, which are reported from Sichuan for the first time. A distribution map of all five species is provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of a rarely encountered genus Sclerobregma Hartman, 1965 (Annelida, Scalibregmatidae) from the deep South China Sea
In the present study, a new species of a rarely encountered genus Sclerobregma Hartman, 1965, Sclerobregma nanhaiensis sp. nov., is described based on specimens collected from slope depths of the northern South China Sea. It is characterized by the presence of branched branchiae and heavy acicular spines in the anterior chaetigers, and is morphologically distinct from the other species of the genus in the shape of the anterior margin of the prostomium, the number of neuropodia with nipple-like projections distally, and the segment annulation. Four gene fragments of the new species were sequenced, comprising 16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, and histone H3. This study represents the first report of Sclerobregma in the South China Sea.
["Continental slope"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Review of the genus Ageleradix Xu & Li, 2007 (Araneae, Agelenidae), with descriptions of three new species
The spider genus Ageleradix Xu & Li, 2007 is reviewed. Three new species are described: A. dulong Mu, Wang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan), A. jinfoshan Mu, Wang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♀, Chongqing) and A. nangunhe Mu, Wang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan). A key to all nine species of Ageleradix is provided, and the genus is split into three species-groups.
["Ageleninae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Three new species of the genus Weintrauboa Hormiga, 2003 (Araneae, Linyphiidae) from China
Three new species of the genus Weintrauboa Hormiga, 2003 are described here as: W. denticulata sp. nov. (Hunan, ♂), W. shenwu sp. nov. (Hubei and Chongqing, ♂♀), and W. wanglangensis sp. nov. (Sichuan, ♂♀). Detailed descriptions, photographs of genital characters, somatic features, and a distribution map are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Genera Colastes Haliday, Colastinus Belokobylskij, and Xenarcha Foerster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Exothecinae) from the Korean Peninsula with a discussion on the Exothecinae genus and subgenus composition
The Exothecinae genera Colastes Haliday, 1833, Colastinus Belokobylskij, 1984, and Xenarcha Foerster, 1863 of the Korean peninsula are reviewed. The names Pseudophanomeris Belokobylskij, 1984 and Shawiana van Achterberg, 1983 are synonymised with the genus Xenarcha Foerster and treated as subgenera. The two new species of Colastes and one new species and subspecies of Xenarcha are described and illustrated. Exothecus effectus Papp, 1972 is included in Xenarcha Foerster, comb. nov. The composition and distribution of the world-known Exothecinae genera are discussed and an illustrated key to its genera and subgenera is presented. A key to the Korean species of the genera Colastes, Xenarcha, and Colastinus is also provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Description of two new huntsman spiders from Vietnam (Araneae, Sparassidae)
Two new species of the sparassid genera Heteropoda Latreille, 1804 and Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 are described from Vietnam: Heteropoda taygiangensis sp. nov. (♂) from Quang Nam Province and Pseudopoda tadungensis sp. nov. (♀) from Dak Nong Province. The new Pseudopoda species is described and diagnosed based on both morphological characteristics and DNA barcoding. DNA barcode data (COI) are provided for both new species.

New data on the scale insect (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha) fauna of Iceland, with description of a new species
This study adds seven species to the scale insect species list of Iceland, bringing the total number of recorded species to 15. Of these, 10 species can be considered as a part of the country checklist with breeding populations in Iceland (seven species can be found in outdoor conditions and three live indoors). An additional five species were recorded on imported fruits and most probably are not established in Iceland. A new species, Trionymus icelandensis Gerő & Szita, sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) is described from outdoor habitats, and the adult female is illustrated.
["Adventive species"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Tetramorium sinensis sp. nov., a parabiotic ant from China, with a key to the Tetramorium inglebyi group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
In this paper, Tetramorium sinensis sp. nov., a parabiotic ant, is described. It was discovered within the nest of the queenless ant Diacamma rugosum (Le Guillou, 1842) in Fenghuang Mountain Park, Zhongshan, Guangdong Province, China. Additionally, a key to the Tetramorium inglebyi group based on the worker caste is provided.
["Identification key"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Two new species of larval Erythraeidae (Parasitengona) ectoparasites of leafhoppers from Southwestern China
In this study, three species were examined. Among them, two new species, Caeculisoma taianensis sp. nov. and Iguatonia barboproxima sp. nov. from Southwestern China, were described and illustrated based on larvae. The two new species can be distinguished from the known species by the following characteristics: the anterior sensilla are nude, and the gnathosoma has two pairs of nude hypostomalae in C. taianensis sp. nov.; the anterior sensilla and posterolateral scutalae are located in the posterior half of the scutum, and the posterior hypostomalae with barbs on the proximal half in I. barboproxima sp. nov. In addition, a new host and distribution range of Abrolophus quadrapexicis Xu & Jin, 2022 is reported.
["Abrolophinae"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

An Amazonian hidden gem: a new metallic-colored species of Ranitomeya (Anura, Dendrobatidae) from Juruá River basin forests, Amazonas state, Brazil
The genus Ranitomeya has 16 known species, and the last of them was described 13 years ago. The forests of the Juruá River basin are known for their enormous vertebrate diversity, despite being one of the least sampled regions in the entire Amazonia. Our recent expeditions to the region resulted in the discovery of a Ranitomeya species with blue-green dorsal stripes and quite peculiar behavior. Here, it is described as a new species using morphological, morphometric, advertisement call, natural history, and genetic data. This new species is strongly nested within the R. vanzolinii clade, with interspecific p-distances ranging from 2.94 to 3.91%, and it was confirmed in all the delimitation methods used. It differs from its closest relatives mainly by (i) its size (male SVL 15.4–17.7 mm, n = 8; female SVL 17.3–18.5 mm, n = 5), (ii) its unique color pattern that is metallic pale yellowish green to metallic pale turquoise-green dorsal stripes pattern, limbs metallic chrome with dark carmine spotting), (iii) presence of a conspicuous sulfur yellow spot on the dorsal surface of the thighs, (iv) tadpoles with posterior tooth rows P1 > P2 > P3 in all stages, head translucent brownish and lack of emarginate lateral papillae, and (v) its advertisement call (composed of 21–45 notes, call duration of 647–1,424 ms, note rate of 28–36 notes/s and dominant frequency of 4,996–6,288 Hz).
["Advertisement call"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

First record of the genus Aspilota Foerster, 1863 in Argentina (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae), with the description of the new species Aspilota murieli sp. nov. and a key to the Neotropical taxa
A new species of Aspilota without a mesoscutal pit, A. murieli Peris-Felipo, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Argentina. The genus Aspilota Foerster, 1863 is recorded from Argentina for the first time. A key to the Neotropical species of Aspilota is provided.
["Alysiinae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The first complete mitochondrial genome of a Lethrus species (Coleoptera, Geotrupidae) with phylogenetic implications
The flightless beetle genus Lethrus Scopoli, 1777 (Geotrupidae, Scarabaeoidea) has a large distribution area throughout Eurasia and is characterized by many species, especially in Middle Asia. Despite this diversity and the potential importance as models for speciation, Lethrus species are underrepresented in molecular databases. To fill this gap, we report the complete mitochondrial genome of Lethrus scoparius obtained using third-generation sequencing technology. The circular mitogenome is 24,944 bp long and has a structure characteristic of coleopterans. It contains 37 genes, including 13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and an A+T-rich non-coding region, the control region between the 12S rRNA and tRNA-Ile (GAU). The phylogenetic analysis of the superfamily Scarabaeoidea placed L. scoparius in the monophyletic family Geotrupidae, which is related to the family Scarabaeidae. The assembled mitochondrial genome is a valuable new genomic resource in the genus Lethrus and contributes to a better understanding of the evolutionary history of the genus and the entire family Geotrupidae.
["Circular mitogenome"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new start? Revision of the genera Anauchen, Bensonella, Gyliotrachela and Hypselostoma (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Hypselostomatidae) of Southeast Asia with description of 46 new species
Hypselostomatidae is a large family of terrestrial pulmonate molluscs currently represented by 284 extant species, most confined to Southeast Asia. The current system of grouping species into genera is based on the morphology of the apertural barriers and the level of last whorl detachment. However, these characters overlap, challenging generic definitions. In this paper, these characters are evaluated and a novel classification proposed for hypselostomatid species belonging to the genera Anauchen (17 species), Bensonella (36 species), Boysidia (7 species, in part) and Hypselostoma (85 species). We assigned all species belonging to the genera Bensonella and Hypselostoma into two and four species groups respectively, which are characterised by combinations of morphological traits. Altogether 46 new species are described, seven species in Anauchen: A. crassus Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. evanidus Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. grandiportus Gojšina, Grego & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. obesus Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. picasso Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. turritus Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., A. jokaii Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov.; 19 species in Bensonella: B. alycaeus Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. cardiostoma Gojšina, Vermeulen & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. cristatissima Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. dha Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. dracula Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. exploda Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. fracta Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. microdentata Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. mitochondria Gojšina, Vermeulen & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. mirabilis Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. montawa Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. multidentata Gojšina, A. Reischütz & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. nitens Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. obex Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. perfecta Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. sericata Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. serrata Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. spelaea Gojšina, Grego & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., B. spinosa Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov.; 20 species in Hypselostoma: H. aquila Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. bubalus Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. circumcarinatum Gojšina, Auffenberg & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. coriaceum Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. aenigma Gojšina, Grego & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. fortunatum Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. fungus Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. geckophilum Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. iunior Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. ophis Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. platybasis Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. populare Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. sculpturatum Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. similare Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. sorormajor Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. sororminor Gojšina, Hunyadi & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. torta Gojšina, Auffenberg & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. vesovici Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. vicinum Gojšina, Auffenberg & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov., H. vujici Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, sp. nov. One replacement name is proposed: H. tertiusfrater Gojšina & Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. pro Boysidia salpinx F. G. Thompson & Dance, 1983, non Hypselostoma salpinx (van Benthem Jutting, 1961) (originally described as Gyliotrachela). Gyliotrachela and Antroapiculus are both treated as junior synonyms of Hypselostoma. An additional 28 species and subspecies are reassigned to the synonymies of other taxa.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Novel brood-site pollination mutualism between sympetalous Heterosmilax (Smilacaceae, Liliales) and a cecidomyiid gall midge (Cecidomyiidae, Diptera) breeding in fallen male flowers
Heterosmilax is a unique dioecious genus of Smilacaceae (Liliales, Monocotyledon) in that both male and female flowers are sympetalous, ellipsoid, and almost closed. Our field observations in the Ryukyu Islands of Japan showed that H. japonica flowers are visited and pollinated exclusively by females of one cecidomyiid gall midge species, whose larvae breed in fallen male flowers and feed initially on pollen and later on floral tissue. This is the first example of obligate gall midge-associated brood-site pollination mutualism in which the pollinator brood site is fallen male flowers. The pollinator gall midge is described as Dasineura heterosmilacicola sp. nov. (tribe Dasineurini, supertribe Lasiopteridi). A molecular phylogenetic analysis reveals that it derived from a flower parasite or flower-bud galler. The sympetalous ellipsoid male flowers are thought to have adapted to allow pollen dusting on the post-abdomen of the pollinator midge, in addition to protecting and incubating internal pollinator larvae in the fallen flowers.
["Dasineura"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Two new species of riparian hoppers (Amphipoda, Talitridae) from Trat and Samut Prakan provinces, Thailand
Floresorchestia has been recorded from the South African coast throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific and Caribbean seas. Platorchestia exhibits a distribution along the coastlines of the Atlantic Ocean and has been documented in the Baltic and Mediterranean seas, North America, Bermuda, and South Africa; however, it has not been recorded in Southeast Asia. This study presents the discovery of two new species of Floresorchestia and Platorchestia (Crustacea: Amphipoda) from a small creek bank in Trat and Bang Pu, Samut Prakan Province, respectively. These new species, classified as riparian hoppers, significantly contribute to the existing biodiversity in Southeast Asia. Floresorchestia trisetosa sp. nov. can be distinguished by left mandible lacinia mobilis 4-dentate; gnathopod 2 palm reaching approximately 34%; telson as broad as long, with three robust setae per lobe. Platorchestia aquaticus sp. nov. can be distinguished by gnathopod 1 subchelate, cuspidactylate, gnathopod 2 palm reaching approximately 35%; telson with three marginal robust setae, and three apical robust setae per lobe.
["Floresorchestia"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Spotlighting Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) in Zambia: a new species and the urgent need for further exploration
The parasitoid Darwin wasps (Ichneumonidae) are one of the most species-rich families of insects, with a crucial role in ecosystem functioning while many species are known as potential biological control agents. However, the group is poorly studied, especially in the Afrotropical realm, where for several countries only a handful of species have been recorded. Zambia is one of the countries with the fewest records for Darwin wasps with only 26 species reported in the largest Ichneumonidae database, “Taxapad”, from 2016 and subsequent publications. In this study, the species of Darwin wasps recorded from Zambia were reviewed and complemented with newly collected species in the Northern Province, to provide a first preliminary checklist of Darwin wasps in Zambia. Our findings increased the number of species known for Zambia to 44, which might still represent as little as 1.7% of the true diversity of the group. Despite the limited scale of the study, one new species of Afrotropical Cremastinae, Pristomerus roussei Meier, Viertler & Spasojevic, sp. nov., is described. The study thus highlights both the substantial potential for discovery of new taxa and significant gaps in our knowledge about the Darwin wasp diversity in Zambia. To tackle these shortcomings, comprehensive collecting efforts considering the various ecotypes found in Zambia are recommended, as well as studies of natural history collections, collaborative effort by taxonomic experts, and enhancing local capacities for taxonomic research by involving students and enlarging local natural history collections.
["Afrotropical region"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Genomic and ecological divergence support recognition of a new species of endangered Satyrium butterfly (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)
We describe a highly isolated population of hairstreak butterfly from Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada, as a new species, Satyrium curiosolus sp. nov., previously recognized as Satyrium semiluna (Half-moon Hairstreak). We propose “Curiously Isolated Hairstreak” as the common name due to its disjunct and unusual distribution. Previous whole-genome analyses revealed S. curiosolus has extremely low genomic diversity and is highly divergent from the nearest S. semiluna populations in British Columbia and Montana, more than 400 km distant. Further analysis suggested prolonged inbreeding and isolation for up to ~40,000 years BP. Ecological niche modeling indicated that S. curiosolus occupies environmental conditions that are distinct from S. semiluna, suggesting niche divergence driven by long-term geographical and ecological separation. While host plant and ant associations have not been definitively resolved, they likely differ between S. curiosolus and S. semiluna. As part of this description, we provide whole-genome consensus sequences for each individual of the type series and identify 21,985 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are divergently fixed between S. curiosolus and S. semiluna, including 117 unlinked SNPs distributed across the genome as putative diagnostic markers. Previously listed as Endangered in Canada as the Waterton population of S. semiluna, S. curiosolus should retain this conservation status due to its extreme isolation, small population size, and flatlined genomic diversity. We propose species recognition as a testable hypothesis under the General Lineage Concept and recommend further research to explore the taxonomy, ecological relationships, and conservation of the greater species complex, including S. curiosolus, S. semiluna, and S. fuliginosa.
["Butterfly"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Review of the genus Isca (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae) from China with a new species and a new species record
Previously, only one Isca species (Isca purpurea Gillies, 1951) was recorded in China. In this review, three Isca species are presented and photographed. Among them, I. acutata sp. nov. is a new species with an acute male penal apex, a uniform brown abdomen of the imago, and a bilamellate gill VII of the nymph. Another species, I. fascia, previously reported from Vietnam, is found in China for the first time. The nymphs of I. fascia exhibit a banded body and a convex apex of the penes. The structure of the third species I. purpurea, shown graphically, has separated penes and a paler nymphal body than the other two species. The diverse morphology of the penes, wings, venation, and gills show that Isca has diverse species and evolutionary directions, suggesting that the previous subgeneric classification may not adequately represent some species. Biologically, their nymphs were observed living in tiny pits on substrate surfaces, where their ventral gills may facilitate respiration while they hide.
["Barcode gene"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Description of two new species of the genus Pteromalus Swederus (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae, Pteromalinae) from Xinjiang, China
Two new species of Pteromalus Swederus (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae, Pteromalinae), Pteromalus steppensis Li & Hu, sp. nov. and Pteromalus xiaomoheensis Yan & Li, sp. nov., are described and illustrated for the first time. Pteromalus steppensis Li & Hu, sp. nov. was reared as a primary, solitary ectoparasitoid of the larval and pupal stages of Orchestes steppensis Korotyaev, 2016 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae). Figures of its development and its host damage are also provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Intruders in beehives? New bee-associated Ellingsenius species (Pseudoscorpiones, Cheliferidae) from China based on morphological data and molecular analyses, with comments on pseudoscorpion-bee relationships
Ellingsenius renae sp. nov., encountered in Guizhou, southern China and the eighth species of the genus, is described and illustrated. An analysis of the COI mitochondrial gene (LCO1490/HC02198) confirms the identity of the new species. An identification key to all Ellingsenius species is provided, and comments on the pseudoscorpion-bee relationships are included.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Advances in the taxonomy and distribution of Scolomus (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae), including the description of a new Andean species and an updated identification key
Scolomus Townes & Townes, 1950 is a genus in Ichneumonidae, with six species occurring in the Holarctic and Neotropical regions. In this study, a new species is described from Chile, Scolomus valenzuelai Araujo, Pádua & Silva-Santos, sp. nov. Also, the female of S. magellanicus Walkley, 1962 is described for the first time and new occurrences of S. maculatus Araujo & Vivallo, 2018, and S. magellanicus are reported from Chile, including the northernmost record of this genus in South America. Additionally, we provide an updated identification key for all known species of the genus.
["Andean Region"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Caribbean Amphipoda (Crustacea) of Panama. Part IV: parvorder Caprellidira
The parvorder Caprellidira includes 1,244 described species in 17 families. The diverse morphology of caprellidiran amphipods ranges from thread-like to more typical laterally compressed body forms. Caprellidiran amphipods are associated with coral rubble, seagrasses, sponges, algae, and sand and typically feed on detritus from the water column. Twenty species from five families within the parvorder are documented from Bocas del Toro, Panama. Five species are new to science and a range extension is documented for 15 species. All species are diagnosed, new species are described, and an identification key to the Caprellidira amphipods of Panama is provided herein.
["Bocas del Toro"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Six new species and a new synonym of the mesh-web spider genus Sudesna Lehtinen, 1967 (Araneae, Dictynidae) from China
Six new species of the genus Sudesna are described from South China: S. cangshan sp. nov. (♀, Yunnan), S. dali sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan), S. haiboi sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan), S. hainan sp. nov. (♂♀, Hainan), S. shangrila sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan) and S. yangi sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan). Dictyna yongshun Yin, Bao & Kim, 2001 is proposed here as a junior synonym of S. hedini (Schenkel, 1936). Detailed descriptions, photographs, along with illustrations of genital organs, somatic features, and a distribution map of Sudesna species in China are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Discovering diversity of Central Asian and Himalayan Epeorus (Caucasiron) mayflies (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) using DNA barcoding and morphology
The mayflies of the genus Epeorus Eaton, 1881 subgenus Caucasiron Kluge, 1997 are distributed from the eastern Mediterranean to the mountains of south-west China. In contrast to the Caucasus, the Mediterranean and Irano-Anatolian regions, where E. (Caucasiron) represents one of the most extensively studied mayfly taxa, the species diversity in the more eastern mountains of Asia has been studied only sporadically. In this study, the species diversity of E. (Caucasiron) from the mountains of Central Asia (Pamir, Tian Shan) and the western part of the Himalayas was analysed using DNA barcoding and the morphology of larvae and adults. The distance- and phylogenetic tree-based molecular species delimitation analyses revealed five E. (Caucasiron) species occurring in the study area. Three of them did not correspond morphologically to any known species of the genus Epeorus. These species were described herein as E. (C.) himalayensis Hrivniak & Sroka, sp. nov., E. (C.) lanceolatus Hrivniak & Sroka, sp. nov. and E. (C.) lineatus Hrivniak & Sroka, sp. nov. All new species were compared with other representatives of the subgenus and other related species of the genus Epeorus, and appropriate morphological diagnostic characters were provided. Morphological revision, main diagnostic characters, and information on the distribution of E. (C.) guttatus Braasch & Soldán, 1979 and two other potentially related Epeorus species from the area, E. psi Eaton, 1885 and E. suspicatus (Braasch, 2006), are also given.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Systematic review of the genus Pseudognaptorina Kaszab, 1977 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Blaptinae, Blaptini) from the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, with description of six new species
The genus Pseudognaptorina, with four described species, is endemic to the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau. In this study, Pseudognaptorina is reviewed based on a combination of molecular and morphological datasets. A preliminary phylogenetic tree is reconstructed based on COI sequences of four related genera within the subtribe Gnaptorinina. Additionally, the geographical distribution of Pseudognaptorina is presented. Six new species are described and illustrated: P. banbarica X.-M. Li, sp. nov., P. himalayana X.-M. Li, sp. nov., P. migana X.-M. Li, sp. nov., P. oblonga X.-M. Li, sp. nov., P. rectangularis X.-M. Li, sp. nov., and P. reni X.-M. Li, sp. nov. This work provides valuable molecular, morphological, and distributional data for the study of species evolution in the subtribe Gnaptorinina.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of Gaillardiellus Guinot, 1976 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Xanthidae) from the coral reefs of the South China Sea
A new xanthid species of Gaillardiellus Guinot, 1976, is described from the coral reefs of the Xisha and Nansha Islands in the South China Sea. The new species, Gaillardiellus magiruber sp. nov., closely resembles G. rueppellii (Krauss, 1843) but can be distinguished mainly by its closer proximity of the outer orbital angle and anterolateral margin, which lacks an accessory lobe, a broader and non-protruding front, and notable differences in live coloration and size. Molecular analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) sequences further corroborates the validity of this new species. An updated identification key for Gaillardiellus is provided.
["Actaeinae"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

A new species of Docosia Winnertz, 1864 and new records of fungus gnats (Diptera, Bolitophilidae, Keroplatidae and Mycetophilidae) from North Africa
A new species of Mycetophilidae in the genus Docosia Winnertz, 1864 is described, Docosia tazekkae Chandler, El Mouden & Belqat, sp. nov., with the addition of eighteen new records of fungus gnats to the fauna of North Africa. Most of the new taxa of fungus gnats are found in Morocco, especially in the National Park of Tazekka, where a total of 69 species are recorded for the first time, thus enriching the fauna of these gnats in the Middle Atlas region; the greatest species richness is observed in caves. All these findings attest to the high biodiversity of the fungus gnats in Morocco, which, among the North African countries, has the best-known fauna.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Acanthocephalans from freshwater fishes in northeast Thailand with the description of a new species of the subgenus Acanthosentis Verma & Dutta, 1929 (Acanthocephala, Quadrigyridae)
During an ichthyoparasitological survey in northeast Thailand in 2015, four species of acanthocephalans were found in four species of freshwater fishes. Adult stages of Pallisentis rexus Wongkham & Whitfield, 1999 and Raosentis sp. (Eoacanthocephala, Quadrigyridae) were collected from Channa striata (Anabantiformes, Channidae) and Mystus mysticetus (Siluriformes, Bagridae), respectively, and cystacanths of Arhythmorhynchus sp. (Palaeacanthocephala, Polymorphidae) were found on the visceral organs of M. albolineatus (Siluriformes, Bagridae). Adult acanthocephalans of the subgenus Acanthosentis Verma & Dutta, 1929 isolated from Barbonymus schwanenfeldii (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae) were morphologically distinct from all described species of the subgenus in the arrangement of rings of tegumental spines in two fields with a more or less pronounced distance between them, and by the presence of a dome-shaped process with a ring of small spines at the base at the posterior end in females. Molecular data were generated for three species and phylogenetic analysis based on the 18S rDNA clearly supported the generic identification of Acanthogyrus (Acanthosentis) barbonymi sp. nov. and P. rexus. While the phylogenetic position of the former species within the genus could not be clarified, the latter species formed a well-supported sister lineage in a clade with isolates of four congeneric species. Acanthogyrus (Acanthosentis) barbonymi sp. nov. is formally described, the first genetic data for P. rexus are generated, a species of the genus Raosentis Datta, 1947 is reported for the first time outside the Indian subcontinent, and a key to the species of the latter genus is presented.
["Acanthogyrus (Acanthosentis)"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Revision of the genus Labidolanguria Fowler, 1908 (Coleoptera, Erotylidae, Languriinae), with descriptions of a new species and two new combinations
The oriental genus Labidolanguria Fowler, 1908, previously remained unknown in China, is revised in this study. A new species, Labidolanguria liangi Huang, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the Xizang Autonomous Region. Two new combinations are proposed: Labidolanguria apicata (Zia, 1959), comb. nov., and L. sauteri (Fowler, 1913), comb. nov. This genus now comprises four recognized species in Asian, and a key is provided for their identification. The relationship of the genus Labidolanguria to closely related genera is discussed.
["Plant and animal studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Two new species of freshwater planarian from Hainan Island and Leizhou Peninsula, southern China (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae)
Two new species of the genus Dugesia from Hainan Island and Leizhou Peninsula are described by applying an integrative approach, including morphological, karyological, histological, and molecular information. In the molecular phylogenetic tree, the two new species, Dugesia saccata Chen & Dong, sp. nov. and Dugesia aconcinna Chen & Dong, sp. nov., fall into an Eastern Palearctic/Oriental clade and an Oriental/Australasian clade, respectively, while sharing only a rather distant relationship. The separate specific status of the two new species is supported also by their genetic distances. Dugesia saccata is characterised by the presence of the following features: a sac-shaped expansion at the knee-shaped bend of the bursal canal; ventrally displaced ejaculatory duct with a subterminal opening; a duct between diaphragm and seminal vesicle; mixoploid karyotype with diploid complements of 2n = 2x = 16 and triploid complements of 2n = 3x = 24, with all chromosomes being metacentric. Dugesia aconcinna is characterised by the presence of the following features: asymmetrical openings of the oviducts into the bursal canal and the common atrium, with the left oviduct opening into the common atrium and the right oviduct opening into the most ventral, proximal portion of the bursal canal, at the point where the latter communicates with the common atrium; vasa deferentia separately opening into the posterior portion of the seminal vesicle; penis papilla of a very characteristic shape, with the part housing the connecting duct, diaphragm, and ejaculatory duct being a cylindrical structure with a blunt tip, while at its right-hand side sits a large penial fold that attaches to the base of the penis papilla; ejaculatory duct following a ventrally displaced course through the penis papilla, after which it opens at the tip of the papilla; presence of a duct between diaphragm and seminal vesicle.
["Dugesia"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Survey of the Notonectidae (Insecta, Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Nepomorpha) from northeastern Brazil
A four-year survey for Notonectidae (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha) was conducted in eleven conservation units and adjacent areas distributed over six states in northeastern Brazil. Nearly 1400 specimens of the following 18 species, four genera, and two subfamilies have been collected: Buenoa amnigenus (White, 1879), B. femoralis (Fieber, 1851), B. fuscipennis (Berg, 1879), B. koina Nieser & Pelli, 1994, B. konta Nieser & Pelli, 1994, B. mutabilis Truxal, 1953, B. pallipes (Fabricius, 1803), B. platycnemis (Fieber, 1851), B. pseudomutabilis Barbosa, Ribeiro & Nessimian, 2010, B. salutis Kirkaldy, 1904, B. tarsalis Truxal, 1953, B. unguis Truxal, 1953 (Anisopinae); Enitharoides brasiliensis (Spinola, 1837), E. tricomerus Barbosa, Ribeiro & Nessimian, 2017, Martarega bentoi Truxal, 1949, M. brasiliensis Truxal, 1949, M. membranacea White, 1879, and Notonecta disturbata Hungerford, 1926 (Notonectinae). Altogether, they represent 30 new records from the states of Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará, Pernambuco, Piauí, and Sergipe, and seven new records from northeastern Brazil, increasing the number of species recorded from the region from 11 to 18. A key to these species is provided, as well as illustrations, diagnoses, taxonomic notes, and a summary of their known geographic distributions.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Revisiting Bacan Island in the footsteps of Alfred Russel Wallace: unveiling the diversity of land snails (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
There are a total of 47 species from ten families of Gastropoda recorded on Bacan Island from 1861 to 1963 by 15 studies. In 2022, the island was revisited to investigate its current land snail diversity. Our survey yielded 555 individuals, which were identified and classified into 27 species from eleven families. Among these, nine species were newly recorded on Bacan Island, bringing the total number of known land snail species to 56. These new records include a new species, Diancta batubacan Nurinsiyah, Prasetia, Mujiono & Heryanto, sp. nov. The most abundant species collected was Trochomorpha ternatana (family Trochomorphidae). Differences in sampling locations and the extent of forest habitats in the surveyed areas may account for the different number of recorded species from previous and recent studies. Comprehensive systematic and standardised surveys are crucial for ensuring sampling completeness to further assess species endemism and biogeographic patterns. Furthermore, cataloguing all known species and resolving land snail’s systematics with integrative approach are important to understand the true diversity of land snail in this region.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Paleopathology and ancient diseases"]

Taxonomic revalidation of Selenobrachys Schmidt, 1999 and Chilocosmia Schmidt & von Wirth, 1992 based on morphological and molecular analyses (Araneae, Theraphosidae), with the description of a new species from Romblon Island, Philippines
Selenobrachys Schmidt, 1999 and Chilocosmia Schmidt & von Wirth, 1992 were considered junior synonyms to Orphnaecus Simon, 1892 without further morphological investigation nor the use of molecular methods of analysis. Herein, the type specimens are reexamined with newly collected samples of currently known Orphnaecus species, including new specimens from Romblon Island, Philippines. Morphological and molecular analyses were performed, utilizing cytochrome oxidase I (COI) and ribosomal genes (12S–tRNA-Val–16S). Synapomorphies in the structure of maxillary lyra, spermathecae, and male palpal morphology were observed in O. philippinus and the Romblon specimen which are distinct from other Orphnaecus species. In addition, lyrate morphology, setae structure on the patella of palp dorsal, and the male palpal organ morphology of O. dichromatus differ from other Orphnaecus species. Cladistic separation observed in molecular phylogenetic analyses supports morphological observations. Our findings suggest that the genus Selenobrachys is distinct from Orphnaecus; hence, the genus Selenobrachys Schmidt, 1999, stat. rev. and its type species Selenobrachys philippinus Schmidt, 1999, comb. rest., are restored and the new species from Romblon Island, Selenobrachys ustromsupasius sp. nov., be identified as the second Selenobrachys species. Furthermore, the genus Chilocosmia Schmidt & von Wirth, 1992, stat. rev. and the original combination of its type species, Chilocosmia dichromata Schmidt & von Wirth, 1992, comb. rest. are restored. Male specimens of S. philippinus and C. dichromata were described for the first time. Insights on the biogeography of Philippine tarantulas are discussed.
["Asian tarantulas"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the genus Calcyopa Stüning, 2000 (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae, Boarmiini), with description of a new species
The genus Calcyopa Stüning, 2000, is briefly reviewed. A new species, Calcyopa hainana Liu, sp. nov., is described from Hainan Province, China. Within the genus Calcyopa, two species groups are identified, characterized by shared traits yet distinguished by a set of consistent features. The difoveata-group, comprises C. difoveata, C. fansipana and C. hainana sp. nov., and the rosearia-group, includes C. rosearia, C. prasina and C. subprasina. The relationship of both species groups is discussed, and an identification key of all known Calcyopa species is presented. Illustrations are provided for adult males and females of the difoveata-group, along with their genitalia, except for C. fansipana, which is known only from males. DNA barcodes are provided for the type species and the newly described species.
["Calcyopa hainana"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Chironomidae (Diptera) from mountain lakes of the Eastern Carpathians, Romania: First records and insight into diversity
Lakes at high altitudes are extremely sensitive to environmental stressors at both local and global scales, making them important sentinels of the changing world. Chironomidae, the most diverse group of benthic macroinvertebrates inhabiting mountain lakes, respond to various environmental impacts, making them important bioindicators of the lake’s ecological status. This study aimed to provide the first insight into chironomid diversity in high-altitude lakes from two mountain ranges of the Romanian Eastern Carpathians: the Maramures, and the Rodna Mountains. Floating chironomid material was collected by skimming the water surface with a hand net from 16 lakes at elevations ranging from 1378 to 1922 m a.s.l. A total of 50 species/ taxa were collected, including nine new records for Romania. Notes on newly recorded species’ distribution, ecology and taxonomy are provided. In addition, an identification key for Procladius choreus and P. sagittalis based on thoracic horn characteristics is given. With our addition, the total number of chironomid species known from Romania is now 526. The study provides a baseline for future research on chironomid diversity, ecology, and biogeography in high-altitude lakes of the Carpathian Mountains.
["Biomonitoring"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Biological resources of Eunotidae, Herbertiidae, Pteromalidae and Eulophidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) from the Altun Mountain National Nature Reserve, China, with description of ten new species
In this study, we explore the biological resources of Eunotidae, Herbertiidae, Pteromalidae and Eulophidae in the Altun Mountain Nature Reserve, Xinjiang, China. Sixty-one species are listed and we described ten new species, including Eunotus caeruleus Kang & Hu, sp. nov. and Eunotus argenteus Kang & Hu, sp. nov. of Eunotidae, Herbertia altunensis Kang & Hu, sp. nov. of Herbertiidae, Thinodytes splendens Kang & Hu, sp. nov., Erdoesina maculata Kang & Hu, sp. nov., Homoporus flavus Kang & Hu, sp. nov. and Stenomalina viridis Kang & Hu, sp. nov. of Pteromalidae and two new species Diaulinopsis altunensis Kang & Hu, sp. nov. and Hyssopus altunensis Kang & Hu, sp. nov. of Eulophidae. Detailed illustrations of all new species are included to support identification and further study.
["Alpine"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Extension of the leafhopper genus Multinervis (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Megophthalminae, Agalliini) from Northern to Central Vietnam, with the description of one new species
A new species of the genus Multinervis Li & Li, 2013, Multinervis phongdienensis sp. nov., is described from two locations in Central Vietnam, Thưa Thien-Hue Province: Bach Ma National Park and Phong Dien District. It represents a second species for the genus and for the fauna of Vietnam, where the type species, M. guangxiensis Li & Li, 2013, has also previously been recorded from Northern Vietnam. Illustrations, a differential diagnosis to distinguish the two Multinervis species and a distribution map are provided. Multinervis phongdienensis sp. nov. is characterized by the absence of forewing crossveins in the claval region, the reduced subgenital plates being almost entirely fused, the absence of a subgenital angular projection and the unusual lateral flanges of the male connective.
["Auchenorrhyncha"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A checklist of Mantodea for Myanmar with the first record of Schizocephala bicornis (Mantodea, Eremiaphilidae) for the country
This paper presents the first comprehensive checklist of Mantodea species in Myanmar, reporting a total of 54 species belonging to 11 families and 32 genera, one of which (i.e., Schizocephala bicornis) constitutes a new record for the country. Four species, Creobroter urbanus, Gonypeta brunneri, Theopompa servillei, and Rhombodera laticollis, are considered doubtful within Myanmar’s fauna and require further investigation to confirm their presence. Additionally, Aethalochroa ashmoliana, Gonypeta punctata, and Toxoderopsis taurus are regarded as erroneous records.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Description of three new species of Spartaeini (Araneae, Salticidae, Spartaeinae) from China and Malaysia
Three new species of Spartaeini from China and Malaysia are described: Calxattus dengba sp. nov. (♂), Spartaeus siloi sp. nov. (♂♀), and Taraxella chrisfehni sp. nov. (♂♀). Calxattus dengba is the second discovered species of the genus in the world. The genus Taraxella is illustrated with a colour plate for the first time.
["Basal lineages"]

A taxonomic synopsis and identification key to the genera of the Myaptex group (Diptera, Asilidae, Asilinae), with description of a remarkable new genus and three new species from the South American Chaco
Cardiasilus gen. nov. is erected to include the following three new species from Brazil and Paraguay: C. aysu sp. nov. and C. dangeloi sp. nov. (both from Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil) and C. ruda sp. nov. (Paraguay), which are herein described and illustrated. The new genus is placed into the Myaptex group of the subfamily Asilinae based on the following set of characters: wing with cells r2+3 and r4 not separated by a recurrent vein (i.e., only two submarginal cells); costal section between tips of veins R5 and M1 much shorter than costal section between tips of R4 and R5, with R5 ending bellow wing apex; scutellum tumid, with no sign of an impressed rim and with at least one pair of well-developed apical scutellar macrosetae; claws acute; and abdominal tergites with lateral marginal macrosetae. It can be differentiated from the other genera of the group by the scutum lacking anterior dorsocentral setae, male epandrium inflated (which resembles the ideogram of a heart in dorsal view), male and female sternites 2–6 with lateral macrosetae, and the male sternite 8 with a long digitiform projection at middle of posterior margin. An illustrated identification key to the genera of the Myaptex group, as well as to the males of Cardiasilus gen. nov., are also provided.
["Assassin flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Filling a zoogeographical gap in China: Taxonomic descriptions of six new spider species of the Pholcus phungiformes species group (Araneae, Pholcidae)
The spiders of the Pholcus phungiformes species group in China are distributed across the Lüliang Mountains and the Yanshan-Taihang Mountains in northern China, and the Changbai Mountains, which border northeastern China and North Korea. This study presents the first collection of the P. phungiformes species group from mountainous regions situated between the Yanshan-Taihang and Changbai Mountains, revealing six new species: Pholcus chaoyang S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., P. hebei S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., P. huludao S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., P. jinzhou S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., P. liaoning S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., and P. qin S. Li & Yao, sp. nov. Detailed diagnoses, descriptions, photomicroscopy images, and DNA barcodes of new species are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Three new species of the cockroach genus Nocticola Bolívar, 1892 (Blattodea, Corydioidea, Nocticolidae) from China
Three new species of Nocticola Bolívar, 1982 from Guangxi Province, China are described: Nocticola baiguensis sp. nov., Nocticola cordiformis sp. nov., and Nocticola appendiculata sp. nov. Morphological features associated with the wings, the specialized abdominal tergum, and genitalia of these new species are described and illustrated in detail. A key to the recorded Nocticola species from China is provided in this paper.
["Cave cockroach"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Monstrilla (Copepoda, Monstrilloida) in coastal waters of northern South China Sea
A new monstrilloid copepod species, Monstrilla pseudograndis sp. nov., from coastal waters in the northern South China Sea is described and illustrated. The diagnostic characters of this new species include the presence of small setae and sensilla on the forehead and four pairs of nipple-like scars on the ventral surface of the cephalothorax. Although the new species closely resembles Monstrilla grandis Giesbrecht, 1891 in overall morphology, it can be distinguished by the shorter antennule, the thumb-like process on the fifth leg, and the distinctive shape of the oral papilla. This represents the eighth record of this genus from China seas.
["copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Water mite diversity from southwestern Türkiye through the lens of the DNA barcodes, with the description of one new species (Acari, Hydrachnidia)
This study presents the molecular and morphological results from an analysis of water mites collected in southwestern Türkiye. 83 COI barcodes are provided, clustered into 40 BINs, with 23 BINs being unique and deposited for the first time in the Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD). The first DNA barcodes for eight water mite species are uploaded into the BOLD database. In total, 34 water mite species were identified and one of them, Iranothyas marismortui (Gerecke, 1999) is newly reported from Türkiye. Iranothyas alhajarica Pešić, Gerecke & Smit, 2009 is excluded from the fauna of Türkiye. Sperchon fundamentalis Bader & Sepasgozarian, 1980, a species previously synonymized with S. glandulosus Koenike, 1886 is resurrected as a valid species. One species, Atractides turani Pešić, Zawal, Gülle & Smit, sp. nov. (Hygrobatidae), is described as new to science.
["Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI)"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Paucibranchia glemareci sp. nov. (Annelida, Eunicidae), a new species from the French Atlantic continental shelf
In this study, we describe a new species belonging to the genus Paucibranchia Molina-Acevedo, 2018 found in the area “La Grande Vasière” on the French Atlantic continental shelf (Bay of Biscay). Paucibranchia glemareci sp. nov. lives between 100 and 130 m depth on muddy sands. It is easily distinguished from most other European species of the genus by the absence of compound spinigerous chaetae. A key to the European species of the genus Paucibranchia is given.
["Bay of Biscay"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Revised diagnoses of the gudgeons Belobranchus belobranchus and B. segura (Actinopterygii, Gobiiformes, Eleotridae)
Diagnostic characters distinguishing the gudgeons Belobranchus belobranchus and Belobranchus segura were reassessed and found to be inconsistent, making it difficult to accurately identify them. Numerous specimens of both species were examined combining genetic (mitochondrial COI gene) and morpho-meristic analyses. Our findings demonstrate that B. belobranchus and B. segura can be reliably distinguished from each other based on revised diagnostic characters, including several morphometric features (interorbital width, jaw length, and caudal-peduncle depth) as well as distinct head, body, and fin coloration.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

The ant genus Nesomyrmex Wheeler (Formicidae, Myrmicinae) from the threatened Colombian tropical dry forest: three new species, a new synonymy, and new distributional data
The species of the ant genus Nesomyrmex inhabiting the tropical dry forest (TDF) of Colombia are reviewed. Three new species of this genus, Nesomyrmex iku sp. nov., Nesomyrmex konina sp. nov., and Nesomyrmex xerophilus sp. nov., are described based on worker caste. Nesomyrmex vargasi Longino, 2006 is recorded for the first time in South America, and Nesomyrmex antoniensis (Forel, 1912) is proposed as a junior synonym of Nesomyrmex asper (Mayr, 1887). A worker-based taxonomic identification key for the Colombian species is provided. High-resolution images and illustrations, and a distribution map for the species present in the Colombian TDF are provided.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Review of the spider genus Solenysa Simon, 1894 in Western Japan and Central Ryukyu with the description of three new species (Araneae, Linyphiidae)
Three new species of the genus Solenysa Simon, 1894 are recorded and described from Western Japan, all based on both sexes. Of these, two species are endemic to the Ryukyu Archipelago: S. shimatchu Ballarin & Eguchi, sp. nov. from Amami-Ōshima Island, and S. yambaruensis Ballarin & Eguchi, sp. nov. from Okinawa Honto and Kume-jima Islands. These species represent the first record of the genus Solenysa for the Central Ryukyus and belong to a newly defined species group. Another new species, S. bilamellata Ballarin & Eguchi, sp. nov. is recorded from eastern Kyushu in mainland Japan and belongs to the mellotteei group. The phylogenetic positions of the new species are discussed based on morphological and molecular data. New records, remarks, and photos of genitalia of other poorly known Solenysa species from surrounding areas (Taiwan, Kyushu, Shikoku, and western Honshu) are provided to facilitate future identifications.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Description of a new species of Stauropathes (Anthozoa, Antipatharia, Schizopathidae) from Puerto Rico
A new species of black coral, Stauropathes monopinnata sp. nov., represented by two specimens collected 738 m and 1604 m deep off Puerto Rico and Hawaii, respectively, is recognized in the family Schizopathidae. The new species is characterized by a monopodial, unbranched corallum; simple, suboppositely arranged pinnules in two anterolateral rows along the stem with nearly 90° distal angles, spaced 12–17 mm apart in a row, and with smooth and triangular spines 0.05–0.08 mm tall; and polyps 4–9 mm in transverse diameter. A phylogeny composed of 90 taxa representing species in Schizopathidae and Cladopathidae (rooted in Cladopathidae) was reconstructed from 794 nuclear loci to show their systematic relationships. Herein, we provide morphological and molecular evidence to show that this new species is distinct from other species in the genus Stauropathes.
["Black coral"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The genus Liocanthydrus Guignot, 1957 (Coleoptera, Noteridae) in Argentina: new records and larval morphology
The genus Liocanthydrus Guignot, 1957 is formally reported from Argentina since its first mention in an unpublished work more than 40 years ago. A single species, L. nanops Baca et al., 2014, is recognised, with few records in the northeast part of the country, suggesting that these may represent the southern distributional limit for the genus. The habitat, a floodplain stream in the southern Atlantic Forest, is described, where both adults and larvae were collected, as well as co-occurring taxa. The first- and third-instar larvae of L. nanops are described for the first time. The first instar, which was unknown for the genus, gives the chance to document its primary chaetotaxy in detail. This species presents two posterodorsal projections on the abdominal segment VIII, which represent elongations of the membranous posterolateral areas of segment VIII, where setae AB8 and AB14 are usually inserted; these two setae accompany the elongation of these regions and are therefore inserted on the projections. The projections are shared with the previously described larvae of L. clayae (J. Balfour-Browne, 1969) but not with those of other noterid genera, and, thus, supports this unique feature as diagnostic of Liocanthydrus.
["Burrowing water beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Description of four new synallactid species (Holothuroidea, Synallactida, Synallactidae) from the tropical Western Pacific Ocean
Four synallactid specimens were collected during four deep-water benthic fauna surveys (2013–2018) conducted at three seamounts (‘Jiaolong’, ‘Y3’, and ‘M4’) and the Ganquan Plateau in the South China Sea, tropical Western Pacific Ocean, at depths ranging from 344 to 3610 m. Morphological examination of these specimens revealed four new species belonging to three genera, which are described as Synallactes tenuibrachius sp. nov., Bathyplotes liaoi sp. nov., Bathyplotes varicolumna sp. nov., and Amphigymnas ganquani sp. nov. Notably, Amphigymnas ganquani sp. nov. represents the first report of an Amphigymnas species in the South China Sea. Detailed descriptions are provided for the morphological features, including the type locality, and geographic and bathymetric distributions of these species. These findings contribute to the understanding of seamount biodiversity and provide valuable insights for advancing research on seamount ecology, management, and conservation.
["Amphigymnas"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Two new snake eels (Anguilliformes, Ophichthidae, Ophichthus) from Viet Nam, with redescriptions of O. macrochir (Bleeker) and O. rutidoderma (Bleeker)
Two new extremely elongate snake eel of the genus Ophichthus are described based on specimens collected from Vietnamese waters. Ophichthus cuulongensis Vo, Hibino & Ho, sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by having the dorsal-fin origin slightly behind the pectoral-fin tip, mean vertebral formula 14-63-202, range 12–17/60–64/199–207; teeth on jaws biserial to triserial; dorsal body dark brown, ventral body pale, anal fin initially white but changing to darker towards its tip. Ophichthus nguyenorum Vo, Hibino & Ho, sp. nov. is distinguished by having a snout rather pointed but the occipital convex (duck-shaped); body with numerous longitudinal wrinkles, weak on posterior abdomen; dorsal-fin origin slightly behind the pectoral-fin tip; one row of teeth on the maxilla anteriorly but increasing posteriorly; two rows on the lower jaw; all teeth small; body dark, usually including abdomen; dorsal fin darker with dark margin; anal fin initially pale but changing to darker towards tip; mean vertebral formula: 15-62-192, range 13–17/61–64/190–196. Descriptions of two related species, O. macrochir (Bleeker, 1852) and O. rutidoderma (Bleeker, 1852), are provided with updated morphological data.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Comparison of complete mitochondrial genome sequences in the Aporrectodea caliginosa species group (Annelida, Crassiclitellata, Lumbricidae)
We present for the first time the complete mitochondrial genomes (mt genomes) of the earthworms Aporrectodea caliginosa and Ap. trapezoides (Clitellata, Megadrili) collected in Hungary and Korea, respectively. The complete mt genome of Ap. trapezoides comprised 15,014 base pairs. Lengths of the three complete Ap. caliginosa mt genomes varied between 15,090 and 15,123 bp. All four mt genomes contained 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and one major non-coding control region. These mt genome arrangements are identical to those observed in the mt genomes of most earthworms, and all the 37 genes are transcribed from the same directional strand. All 13 PCGs had the same ATG start codon. Most of the PCGs end with TAA or TAG, whereas the remaining end with an incomplete stop codon, T. Stop codons were consistent in the PCGs throughout the mt genomes, except Ap. caliginosa 5, which contains a TAG stop codon in ND5 instead of the TAA found in the other samples. Both species’ genomes showed biased base composition, with 63.5% AT and 36.4% GC content in Ap. trapezoides and 62.8% and 37.2% in Ap. caliginosa. Phylogenetic analysis of the mt genomes corroborated the monophyly of the family Lumbricidae and the close relationship between Ap. trapezoides and Ap. caliginosa species pairs. The available Ap. tuberculata sequences were embedded between the Ap. caliginosa samples, thereby supporting the synonymy of the two names.
["Aporrectodea caliginosa"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Three new species of torrent treefrogs (Anura, Hylidae) of the Hyloscirtus bogotensis group from the eastern Andean slopes and the biogeographic history of the genus
The Hyloscirtus bogotensis group contains 17 species of treefrogs from the tropical Andes and Central America. A taxonomic review of the Amazonian clades of this group is presented based on DNA sequences of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA and a preliminary phylogenomic analysis of ultraconserved elements, as well as morphological, bioacoustic, and environmental characters. Additionally, the role of the Andes in the diversification of the genus Hyloscirtus is explored by reconstructing their ancestral basin (Amazon, Pacific, Caribbean). Our integrative analysis indicates the existence of eight undescribed candidate species within the group. Three of those species are described, previously masked within H. albopunctulatus, H. phyllognathus, and H. torrenticola. A lectotype is also designated for Hyla albopunctulata. The new evidence suggests that neither Hyloscirtus phyllognathus nor H. torrenticola occur in Ecuador. The new species, H. elbakyanae sp. nov., H. dispersus sp. nov., and Hyloscirtus maycu sp. nov. differ from other members of the group in bioacoustics and external morphology. The most useful diagnostic characters among species were advertisement calls. In contrast, skin coloration is highly variable intraspecifically and, as a result, of low diagnostic value. High variation in color is partly a result of phenotypic plasticity. Our biogeographic reconstructions indicate that the Andean barrier influenced the diversification of Hyloscirtus. Since the early Oligocene, there have been only four colonization events across de Andes, between the Pacific and Amazon basins. Two of those events occurred more than 14 Mya, when most of the tropical Andes were below 3000 m. Species in the highland H. larinopygion group are younger, suggesting recent diversification as high montane forests and paramo habitats emerged.
["Amazon Basin"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

Review of the millipede genus Xystodesmus (Diplopoda, Polydesmida), with seven new species from the southwestern part of Japan
The genus Xystodesmus Cook, 1895 (most closely related to Riukiaria Attems, 1938) is retained as a taxon of xystodesmine millipedes with a relatively small body length (25–35 mm), male gonopods more complicated than just a forceps-like conformation, and with live colouration of grey-brown tergites with red, orange, or yellow paranotal spots. Seven new species of the genus (Xystodesmus fasciatus sp. nov., X. keramae sp. nov., X. kumamotoensis sp. nov., X. kumeensis sp. nov., X. parvus sp. nov., X. rebekae sp. nov., X. sesokoensis sp. nov.) are described from the islands of Kyushu, Okinawa-jima, Kume-jima, Okinoerabu-jima, Aka-jima, Amami-O-shima, and Sesoko-jima, southwestern Japan. Koreoaria Verhoeff, 1937, syn. nov. is synonymised with Xystodesmus Cook, 1895, so X. pallidus (Verhoeff, 1937), comb. nov. (ex Koreoaria pallida), and X. amoenus (Takakuwa, 1942), comb. nov. (ex K. amoena) are established. Furthermore, X. variatus (Pocock, 1895), comb. nov. (ex Fontaria variata), and X. saltuosus (Haga, 1968), comb. nov. (ex Rhysodesmus saltuosus) are re-evaluated and redescribed, based on re-examination of types and of freshly collected material (X. variatus only). All new species, as well as X. martensii (Peters, 1864), X. nikkoensis (Chamberlin & Wang, 1953), and X. variatus are illustrated with colour habitus photographs taken of live specimens, to facilitate field identification.
["Island geography"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Plume moths (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae) of a recently discovered lepidopteran diversity hotspot in the Mount Cameroon area, with descriptions of four new species
Moth diversity on Mount Cameroon, a critical biodiversity hotspot in the Afrotropics, remains understudied despite the region’s rich and unique ecosystems. In this study, 34 species of plume moths (Pterophoridae) were recorded from the Mount Cameroon region, including four species new to science: Titanoptilus bigoti Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Titanoptilus murkwe Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Hellinsia ekonjo Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., and Hellinsia mapanja Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov. Images of the adult type specimen and male genitalia for Titanoptilus melanodonta Hampson, 1905 are published for the first time. In addition, 25 species are reported as new records for the Cameroonian fauna, raising the number of known Pterophoridae species in the country from 19 to 48. The results significantly expand our understanding of plume moth diversity in the region and extend the known distribution range of several species. These findings emphasise the importance of Mount Cameroon as a biodiversity hotspot within the Afrotropics. Enhanced conservation efforts are essential to preserve the unique biodiversity of Mount Cameroon, especially considering threats such as ongoing habitat degradation in some parts of the region and climate change.
["Afrotropics"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

First report of subfamily Scydmaeninae (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) from Shanghai, with description of two new species
The subfamily Scydmaeninae (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) is reported from Shanghai, China for the first time. Three species of the genus Euconnus Thomson were recognized: E. (s. str.) dulcis Sharp, 1886, E. (s. str.) imparitus sp. nov. (type locality: Waigang Town, Jiading District), and E.(s. str.) magnoculus sp. nov. (type locality: Shanghai Zoo, Hongqiao District). The new species are described, and diagnoses and illustrations of the habitus and important diagnostic features for all taxa are provided for ready identification. Furthermore, Euconnus cerastiventris Vit, 2006, syn. nov. is placed as a junior synonym of E. dulcis. A key to Euconnus species that occur in Shanghai is provided.
["Ant-like stone beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Notes on the genus Diestramima Storozhenko, 1990 (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae) with description of three new species from China
Three new species of the genus Diestramima are described from China: Diestramima ligula Zhu & Shi, sp. nov., Diestramima longzhouensis Zhu & Shi, sp. nov., and Diestramima napoensis Zhu & Shi, sp. nov. Moreover, the females of Diestramima parabispinosa Qin, Wang, Liu & Li, 2016 and Diestramima distincta Gorochov, 2010 are described for the first time. Images illustrating the morphology of these species are provided.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Two new species of the genus Viscosia de Man, 1890 (Nematoda, Enoplea, Enoplida, Oncholaimidae) from the intertidal zone of the Yellow Sea, China
Two new species of Viscosia from the intertidal zone along the Yellow Sea are described and illustrated. Viscosia media sp. nov. is characterized by a heavily cuticularized and relatively shallow buccal cavity with stubby teeth; cephalic setae 7–8 µm long; amphidial fovea invisible; slender spicules almost straight, cephalated proximally and conical distally; and tail conical, straight in males and slightly bent ventrally in females. Viscosia sinica sp. nov. is characterized by a relatively large amphidial fovea, conico-cylindrical tail with swollen horseshoe-shaped tip, spicules slightly curved ventrally, and 10–12 setae surrounding the cloaca, each 3–4 µm long. The basic morphological data of males of 26 valid species in Viscosia with a body length of 1–2.9 mm are presented.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Topotypes of the millipede species Kronopolites swinhoei (Pocock, 1895) reveal a new synonym with revalidation of Kronopolites svenhedini (Verhoeff, 1934) (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The millipede genus Kronopolites Attems, 1914 was originally described by monotypy with Strongylosoma swinhoei Pocock, 1895 as the type species, which was based on a single female specimen. Although this species has been believed to be widespread in China, there have been no confirmed reports of it from its type locality, leading to uncertainty about its taxonomic status. To address this issue, we newly sampled specimens from its type locality in Zhifu, Shandong Province, China. Our morphological analysis suggests that Kronopolites swinhoei (Pocock, 1895) should be reclassified as Nedyopus swinhoei (Pocock, 1895) comb. nov. and is a senior synonym of Nedyopus patrioticus Attems, 1898, syn. nov. The results also support the recovery of the name Kronopolites svenhedini (Verhoeff, 1934) sp. reval., which was previously misidentified as a junior synonym under K. swinhoei. The former is now the genus type of Kronopolites.
["New combination"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Mating and egg-laying behaviour of the Southeast Asian apple snail Pila pesmei (Morlet, 1889) (Caenogastropoda, Ampullariidae)
The apple snail Pila pesmei is an economically valuable freshwater snail in mainland Southeast Asia whose populations have recently dramatically declined. Although conservation concerns have been rising in the region, the lack of basic knowledge of its reproductive biology remains an obstacle to its conservation. This study describes the mating and egg-laying behaviours of P. pesmei under laboratory conditions using continuous video recordings. Fifteen mating behaviours were recorded in four mating phases: pre-courtship, courtship, copulation, and post-copulation. Mating sequences were variable, especially in the courtship phase. However, many males performed a common courtship sequence of mate probing, mounting, shell circling, and positioning. When a female performed a variety of actions against the male’s approach, males then performed various alternative courtship sequences. The egg-laying process was similar among different females. They burrowed into the soil substrate to lay eggs. A total of six behaviours were recorded in the egg-laying process: crawling, resting, withdrawal, burrowing, egg depositing, and aestivating. Females did not return to the water after laying eggs but remained in the egg-laying cavity with their egg masses. This behaviour has not been reported in any other Pila species to date. Overall, our examination revealed the previously unknown mating and egg-laying processes in P. pesmei, which included some distinct behaviours and increased the basic knowledge of its reproductive biology.
["Copulation"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Genomic investigation of benthic invertebrates from the Clarion-Clipperton fields of polymetallic nodules
The abyssal plains of the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) are famous for their fields of polymetallic nodules, which are inhabited by benthic invertebrates. Ten specimens from the Interoceanmetal Joint Organisation (IOM) licence area in the CCZ were collected in 2014 and submitted to a short-read genome skimming sequencing. In total, mitochondrial genomes and nuclear ribosomal genes were retrieved for nine different organisms belonging to Ophiuroidea, Holothuroidea, Polychaeta, Bryozoa, Porifera, and Brachiopoda (assigned to these phyla immediately upon retrieval from the seafloor). As many of these samples were partial and physically deteriorated following their seven-year storage in IOM’s collections, their morphology-based taxonomic identification could rarely be performed at the lowest possible level (species or genus) prior to preparing the samples for molecular or genomic investigations. Therefore, it was not possible to apply the reverse identification scheme recommended for such investigations. However, several of these specimens represent poorly studied groups for which few molecular references are available as of now. In two cases, the presence of introns in the mitochondrial genome questions the practicability of using the cox1 gene for further routine molecular barcoding of these organisms. These results might be useful in future DNA primers design, molecular barcoding, and phylogeny or population genetic studies when more samples are obtained.
["Brachiopoda"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

First northwestern Pacific records of the deep-sea cardinalfish Epigonus glossodontus (Teleostei, Epigonidae) from the Daito Islands, Japan
The deep-sea cardinalfish Epigonus glossodontus Gon, 1985, previously known only from the Hawaiian Islands, was observed using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) on steep seafloors surrounding Kitadaito and Minamidaito islands, both being oceanic islands belonging to the Daito Islands, Japan in the northwestern Pacific. A total of 44 hours of ROV observations found sparse populations, each of several individuals, around or within small caves, fissures, and recesses, specifically at depths of 340–588 m within the surveyed depth of 284–1009 m. Seven individuals (36.0–114.8 mm standard length) were successfully collected during the ROV observations around the Daito Islands. A subsequent record of the species (97.5 mm standard length) from the Kyushu-Palau Ridge indicated that the species is widely distributed. A glossy bluish-green body color with black-margined scales was revealed by the field observations, the glossy color fading immediately after death.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Lost for more than a century: the rediscovery of Alsodes vittatus (Philippi, 1902) (Anura, Alsodidae), one of the rarest and most elusive amphibians from Chile
The legacy of the 19th-century naturalist Rudolph Philippi to the taxonomy of Chilean amphibians has been controversial since most of the species he described in 1902 have been questioned or invalidated. Here, we describe the rediscovery of Alsodes vittatus, a species that was not observed for 130 years after being collected, in three places very close to the type locality in the Andean foothills of the La Araucanía Region, Chile. The species was identified phenotypically by the vertebral line of some individuals, which turned out to be an intrapopulationally polymorphic trait. A phylogenetic analysis with mitochondrial genes, including most of the species of the genus, showed that the discovered populations of A. vittatus are paraphyletic with respect to the only individual of A. neuquensis included. We also describe populations from another area where A. vittatus was searched in the past, which we assigned here to A. igneus due to its geographic location and phylogenetic and phenotypic affinity. All these populations are part of two well-supported clades, but their relationships with nearby species (e.g., A. norae and A. barrioi) remain uncertain. These results ratify that the diversity and phylogenetic relationships of the genus in the Chilean Andes, particularly in the La Araucanía Region, are not yet well established. We discuss the possibility that A. vittatus and A. neuquensis, known until now only in Argentina, are the same species, and suggest downgrading the conservation status of A. vittatus from Critically Endangered to Endangered, considering the information from the new localities discovered.
["Alsodes igneus"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

New species and new records of families, genera and species of land snails (Mollusca, Gastropoda) from French Guiana
This paper presents an investigation of material collected during four intensive collecting trips of land snails in French Guiana from 1995 to 2020 and deposited in the French National Museum of Natural History collections. This material forms the basis of the following novelties: four families are reported for the first time from French Guiana: Diplommatinidae, Cystopeltidae, Thysanophoridae and Strobilopsidae; three native species: Lyroconus plagioptycha (Helicoidea, Thysanophoridae), Pupisoma macneilli (Pupilloidea, Valloniidae) and Strobilops morsei (Pupilloidea, Strobilopsidae) and one introduced species Diplosolenodes occidentalis (Veronicelloidea, Veronicellidae) are reported for the first time from French Guiana; five new species are described: Adelopoma quasimodo Gargominy, sp. nov. (Cyclophoroidea, Diplommatinidae), Lilloiconcha galbao Gargominy, sp. nov. (Punctoidea, Cystopeltidae), Protoglyptus bernicolae Gargominy, sp. nov. (Orthalicoidea, Bulimulidae), Pseudosubulina santi Gargominy, sp. nov. (Testacelloidea, Spiraxidae), and Happia decaensi Gargominy, sp. nov. (Scolodontoidea, Scolodontidae). Finally, Drymaeus surinamensis Vernhout, 1914, syn. nov. is considered as a new synonym of Mesembrinus lusorius (L. Pfeiffer, 1855), and Drymaeus arcuatostriatus (L. Pfeiffer, 1855) is proposed as the new identification of Drymaeus meesi sensu Tillier, 1980 non Breure, 1976.
["Hidden diversity"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Four new species of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 (Araneae, Sparassidae, Heteropodinae) from China and Vietnam
Four new species of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 (Araneae, Sparassidae) are described based on material collected from China and Vietnam: P. campylotropa Zhang, Chen, Liu, Jäger & Hu, sp. nov. (♂♀) and P. caoguii Zhang, Chen, Liu, Jäger & Hu, sp. nov. (♀) from Yunnan Province of China; P. yejiachangensis Zhang, Chen, Liu, Jäger & Hu, sp. nov. (♂) from Jiangxi Province of China; and P. ornithorhynchus Zhang, Chen, Liu, Jäger & Hu, sp. nov. (♂) from Vinh Phuc Province of Vietnam.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A new species of the genus Ovophis Burger in Hoge & Romano-Hoge, 1981 (Serpentes, Viperidae) from southern Yunnan, China
A new species of Ovophis is described from Yuanyang Guanyinshan Provincial Nature Reserve in southern Yunnan Province, China. The new species can be distinguished from congeneric species by the following combination of characters: ratio of tail length to total length 0.191–0.206, internasals separated by one or two scales, dorsal scales in 22-21-17 rows, ventrals 146–148, subcaudals 57–64, most subcaudals paired and a few unpaired, third supralabial larger than fourth, white spots on dorsal tail continuous. This study further reveals that the species diversity of Ovophis has been seriously underestimated, and there is still a lot of work to be done on the taxonomy of this genus.
["cytochrome b gene"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Rabies epidemiology and control", "Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities"]

Revision of the Chinese species of the genus Brachyponera Emery, 1900 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), with a key to the world species of the genus
The species of the ant genus Brachyponera Emery, 1900 are reviewed based on the morphological characters of the worker caste. Brachyponera tianzun (Terayama, 2009) is transferred to Euponera as Euponera tianzun (Terayama, 2009), comb. nov. Four new species, B. paraarcuata sp. nov., B. xui sp. nov., B. candida sp. nov., and B. myops sp. nov., are described from China based on the worker caste. Phylogenetic trees were constructed for eight known and four new species, and genetic distances were calculated. High-resolution images of B. batak (Yamane, 2007), B. flavipes (Yamane, 2007), B. nakasujii (Yashiro et al., 2010), B. pilidorsalis (Yamane, 2007), B. wallacea (Yamane, 2007), and B. brevidorsa Xu, 1994 are provided. Keys are provided to both the eight species groups and 23 known species of the world based on the worker caste.
["High-resolution illustrations"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

From 153-year-old records to contemporary discoveries: land snail (Mollusca, Gastropoda) diversity in Penang Hill, Malaysia
This study highlights the diversity of land snails in Penang Hill, a non-limestone hill in Peninsular Malaysia. A systematic survey of land snails in Penang Hill was conducted, inventoried, and compared with those specimens collected by Stoliczka (1872, 1873) in 1869. Based on the 33 sampling plots established in this study, the differences in species composition along the elevation gradient (75 m to 770 m a.s.l.) and between three different habitats on Penang Hill were examined: disturbed forests with anthropogenic activities, undisturbed forests, and orchards with various crops. A total of 54 species were recorded from the sampling plots and random observations, of which only 20 overlapped with Stoliczka’s list; 34 were new records for Penang Hill, and 12 previously recorded species were not found in this study. Most of the new records were micro-snails smaller than 5 mm. Species richness was highest in disturbed forests and showed no correlation with elevation. There was no clear grouping of plots by species composition across habitat types, except for those in orchards. Indicator species analysis revealed strong associations between a few land snail species and disturbed forests and orchards. The number of species in Penang Hill increased from 32 to 66, with species richness comparable to the high numbers usually found in limestone habitats and higher mountains in Malaysia.
["Bukit Bendera"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Paleopathology and ancient diseases", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

New records of leaf-miner flies (Diptera, Agromyzidae) from Morocco
New records are provided of the family Agromyzidae (leaf-miner flies) from Morocco. Thirty agromyzid species are newly recorded, seven of these in Agromyzinae: Agromyza (Agromyza anthracina, A. conjuncta, A. mobilis, A. myosotidis, A. nigrescens), Hexomyza (H. simples), and Ophiomyia (O. pinguis). The other 23 new records are in Phytomyzinae: Amauromyza (Cephalomyza) karli, Calycomyza flavomaculata, C. solidaginis, Cerodontha (Butomomyza) eucaricis, C. (Dizygomyza) luctuosa, C. (Icteromyza) geniculata, Chromatomyia centaurii, Liriomyza amoena, L. brassicae, L. strigata, Phytoliriomyza arctica, P. perpusilla, P. pteridii, Phytomyza anemones, Ph. clematidis, Ph. crassiseta, Ph. notata, Ph. plantaginis, Ph. rufipes, Ph. vitalbae, Pseudonapomyza confusa, Ps. palavae, and Ps. vota. The genus Calycomyza Hendel is newly reported from the country. The present study is based on recent entomological surveys and has increased the total number of agromyzid species in Morocco to 92. Information on the distribution and ecology of each species is provided.
["Agromyzidae"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Ambusher in sponge: a new species of Eunice (Annelida, Eunicidae) commensal within deep-sea Farreidae (Porifera, Hexactinellida) on northwest Pacific seamounts
Deep-sea sponges create complex biogenic structures and attract a wide array of deep-sea organisms, including symbionts. In this study, we describe Eunice siphoninsidiator sp. nov., a new eunicid species living in the central cavity of deep-sea farreid glass sponges found on northwest Pacific seamounts. The new species closely resembles the Atlantic Eunice norvegica both morphologically and molecularly, but it differs in the relative length of palp compared to peristomium, starting points of subacicular hooks, and shape of pectinate chaetae. A 13% COI genetic distance between the two species further supports the establishment of E. siphoninsidiator as a distinct species. Gut content analyses reveals fragments of barnacles and brittle stars, suggesting a carnivorous diet and a sit-and-wait predatory strategy. The eunicid gains protection from living inside the sponge, which consistently harbored the polychaete in all specimens examined, while the sponge benefits from the cleaning of epibionts, pointing to a potentially mutualistic relationship.
["Gut content"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A revision of the hitherto neglected genus Topiris Walker, 1863 (Lepidoptera, Xyloryctidae) with taxonomic notes on the genus Athrypsiastis Meyrick, 1910
The genus Topiris Walker, 1863 is revised. This genus, previously neglected or deemed unrecognisable, comprised only Walker’s damaged and misrepaired type specimen of Topiris candidella Walker, 1863. Evidence is provided that this specimen was collected by Alfred Russel Wallace in 1855–56 in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. The mitogenome of this specimen was assembled using low coverage whole genome sequencing (genome skimming). The COI-5P portion of this mitogenome (658 bp) differs by 1–3 bp from two haplotypes sequenced from early 1990’s Brunei specimens. Another specimen recently discovered at NHMUK with an identical label to that of the type perfectly matches the Brunei specimens in its genitalia. Based on these four specimens, we present a fuller description of the morphology of T. candidella. Topiris includes the following additional species authored by Sterling and Lees: Topiris albidella sp. nov., T. albogrisella sp. nov., T. cinderella sp. nov., T. digiticosta sp. nov., T. lacteella sp. nov., T. madonna sp. nov., T. meyricki sp. nov., T. ochrotincta sp. nov., T. schneeweissella sp. nov., T. sericella sp. nov., and T. thunbergella sp. nov. The following new combinations are also established: T. salva (Meyrick, 1932), comb. nov. and T. sampitella (Lvovsky, 2014), comb. nov. The type of Athrypsiastis salva Meyrick is confirmed as lost and so a neotype and paraneotype of this species are designated. A published mitogenome of “Linoclostis gonatias” is shown to be correctly identified as T. salva, and references to L. gonatias, identified in some literature as a pest of Theaceae, are likely misidentified. The genus Topiris is divided into three groups, the candidella group, the salva group, and the albidella group, based on characters in the male genitalia. The candidella group and albidella group are supported sub-clades of Topiris. The phylogenetic placement of Topiris and Athrypsiastis within ‘core’ Xyloryctidae (as subtended by its type species, X. luteotactella) is confirmed by analysis of COI and seven nuclear genes, whereas the genera Eumenodora Meyrick, 1906 and Izatha Walker, 1864 do not fall within this clade. The morphology of Athrypsiastis phaeoleuca Meyrick, 1910 (the type species of Athrypsiastis; Xyloryctidae) is more fully described. The following new species authored by Sterling and Lees are described: Athrypsiastis cheesmanae sp. nov., A. edelweissella sp. nov., and A. penumbrella sp. nov. Two taxa are newly combined: Athrypsiastis halmaherella (Lvovsky, 2014), comb. nov. and Paralecta rosiflora (Meyrick, 1930), comb. nov.
["Alfred Russel Wallace"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

A new remarkable representative of Uropodina mites from Seychelles (Acari, Mesostigmata, Trematuridae)
A new genus, Trematirunella gen. nov. (Mesostigmata: Uropodina: Trematuridae), with Trematirunella seychellia sp. nov. as its type species, is described, based on a female, males, and deutonymphs collected in soil samples from the Seychelle Islands. The new genus belongs to the family Trematuridae based on the shape of the corniculi, gnathosomal setae, tritosternum and chelicerae. Members of the new genus bear a preanal suture on the ventral shield, two pairs or more pairs of wide, robust and sword-like setae on the caudal part of the dorsal shield, very dense setation on the caudal area of the marginal shield and an incision on the anterior part of the dorsal shield. These characters are missing in the other genera of Trematuridae. Two previously described species (Trichouropoda lagunae Hirmatsu & Hirschmann, 1988 and Trichouropoda palawanensis Hirschmann & Hirmatsu, 1990) from the Philippines are transferred to the new genus, as Trematirunella lagunae (Hirmatsu & Hirschmann, 1988), comb. nov. and Trematirunella palawanensis (Hirschmann & Hirmatsu, 1990), comb. nov. The new species differs from its congeners in the sculptural pattern of the female genital shield and in the shape of the robust and sword-like setae on the caudal area of the dorsal shield.
["Acari"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Two new species of the genus Malaxa Melichar, 1914 from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae, Tropidocephalini)
Two new species of the genus Malaxa Melichar, 1914 from Southwest China, M. chongzuoensis Lv & Chen, sp. nov. from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and M. longispina Lv & Chen, sp. nov. from Guangdong Province, are described and illustrated. These bring the total number of species in the genus to 13, with nine recorded from China. A checklist and map of all known species of Malaxa are provided, together with an identification key for Chinese species.
["Bamboo host"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Virus Research Studies"]

Two new species of the subgenus Indoribates (Haplozetes) (Acari, Oribatida, Haplozetidae) from Tajikistan
Two new species of oribatid mites of the subgenus Indoribates (Haplozetes) (Oribatida, Haplozetidae) are described based on adult specimens from Tajikistan. Indoribates (Haplozetes) tajikistanensis sp. nov. differs from I. (H.) vindobonensis by the position of the adanal lyrifissure and the shape of the saccule S2. Indoribates (Haplozetes) asetosus sp. nov. differs from I. (H.) fusifer (Berlese, 1908) by the absence of φ on tibia IV and the shape of epimeral setae and adanal setae ad1-2; from I. (H.) triungulatus (Beck, 1964) it differs by the length of the interlamellar seta, adanal setae ad1-2 and tutorium, and the shape of notogastral seta. The genus Indoribates is recorded in Tajikistan for the first time.
["Study of Mite Species", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

First record of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Xizang, China, with descriptions of three new species and one newly recorded species
Four species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 from Xizang, China are recognized, including three new species and one newly recorded species: T. bangla Grismado & Ramírez, 2014, T. mainling Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. metok Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and T. zayu Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). Descriptions, diagnoses and photomicroscopy images are provided.

Two new species of the purse-web spider genus Atypus Latreille, 1804 from China (Araneae, Atypidae)
Two new species of the purse-web spider genus Atypus Latreille, 1804, collected from China, are diagnosed and described based on the genital morphology of both sexes: A. dawei sp. nov. (♂♀) and A. liui sp. nov. (♂♀). These species are widespread in central China. Atypus dawei sp. nov. is found in Anhui, Hunan, and Jiangxi provinces, while A. liui sp. nov. is distributed across Anhui, Guangxi, Guizhou, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, and Jiangxi provinces.

Description of a new music frog (Anura, Ranidae, Nidirana) critically endangered in Taiwan
Nidirana okinavana (Boettger, 1895) is a small-sized ranid species belonging to the East Asian genus Nidirana Dubois, 1992. Previous studies have indicated that this species was exclusively distributed on Ishigaki and Iriomote islands in the southern Ryukyus, as well as two extremely small wetland habitats in central Taiwan. Such a restricted distribution makes it one of the most endangered frog species in both Taiwan and Japan. By using molecular, morphological, and acoustic analyses, our study reveals significant divergence between the Taiwanese and Japanese clades, supporting the recognition of the Taiwanese clade as a distinct species, described herein as Nidirana shyhhuangi sp. nov. Compared to Nidirana okinavana sensu stricto from the southern Ryukyus, the Nidirana shyhhuangi sp. nov. is characterized by a significantly smaller and non-overlapping body size, relatively longer forelimbs and hindlimbs, smaller internostril and interorbital distances, with a higher number of cross bands on thigh and shank. Acoustic analyses reveal that the Nidirana shyhhuangi sp. nov. produces calls with a rapid tempo and higher pulse number, with a higher dominant frequency compared to the Japanese clade. Due to the extremely limited distribution of this species to two small sites on Taiwan, and continuing decline in quality of its habitat, we propose that it should be classified as Critically Endangered (CR) under the IUCN criteria. Immediate and comprehensive in situ and ex situ conservation actions are necessary to ensure the sustainable viability of the population.
["Acoustic analysis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Review of the genera and subgenera of the subtribe Aspilotina (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae), with a new illustrated key
The genera and subgenera of the subtribe Aspilotina are reviewed. A new illustrated key to all accepted supraspecies taxa is provided. Grandilota Fischer, 2002, stat. nov. is proposed as subgenus of Aspilota Foerster, 1863. Carinthilota Fischer, 1975, syn. nov. is synonymised with Alitha Cameron, 1906, stat. nov. and the latter is treated as subgenus of Dinotrema Foerster, 1863; Eudinostigma Tobias, 1986, syn. nov. is considered a synonym of Dinotrema Foerster, 1863. Moreover, the new subgenus Pseudoprosapha subgen. nov. (type species: Dinostigma stenosoma van Achterberg, 1988) is described. Additionally, Synaldotrema Belokobylskij & Tobias, 2002, stat. nov. is treated as a separate genus. The following new combinations are proposed: Aspilota (Aspilota) ruficollis Stelfox & Graham, 1950, comb. nov., Dinotrema (Alitha) lada (Belokobylskij, 1998), comb. nov., D. (A.) longipennis (Cameron, 1906), comb. nov., D. (A.) mavka (Belokobylskij, 1998), comb. nov., D. (A.) parapsidalis (Fischer, 1975), comb. nov., D. (A.) vechti (van Achterberg, 1988), comb. nov., Dinotrema (Dinotrema) alox (van Achterberg, 1988), comb. nov., D. (D.) entabeniense (Fischer, 2009), comb. nov., D. (D.) latum (Chen & Wu, 1994), comb. nov., D. (D.) planiceps (Fischer, Tormos & Pardo, 2006), comb. nov., D. (D.) subpulvinatum (Fischer, 2009), comb. nov., D. (Pseudoprosapha) stenosoma (van Achterberg, 1988), comb. nov., D. (Synaldis) bienesae (Fischer, Tormos & Pardo, 2006), comb. nov., D. (S.) fischeri (Tobias, 1986), comb. nov., D. (S.) latistigma (Fischer, 1962), comb. nov., D. (S.) planiceps (Fischer, Tormos & Pardo, 2006), comb. nov., D. (Synaldis) cespitator (Belokobylskij, 2004), comb. nov., D. (S.) perfidum (Fischer, 1970), comb. nov., D. (S.) trematosum (Fischer, 1967), comb. nov. and Panerema fulvicornis (Haliday, 1838), comb. nov.
["Alysiini"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) from the eastern Pamir Plateau, with four new records from China
Based on surveys of the superfamily Chalcidoidea (Hymenoptera) in the eastern part of Pamir Plateau from 2021 to 2023, 1770 specimens of Encyrtidae belonging to 21 species in 15 genera are identified and catalogued. Two new species, Acerophagus albuscorpus Xi & Hu, sp. nov. and Pseudectroma stemmatosteres Zhang & Hu, sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Four species, Ericydnus novosibiricus Sugonjaev & Gavrilyuk, 2012, Copidosoma charon Guerrieri & Noyes, 2005, Aphycus slavai Myartseva, 1981, and Trichomasthus marsus (Walker, 1837), are newly recorded from China, and their diagnoses and illustrations are provided.
["Acerophagus"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Barbodes klapanunggalensis, a new species of blind subterranean fish (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae) from Klapanunggal karst area, West Java, Indonesia, with notes on its conservation
Barbodes klapanunggalensis sp. nov. is described on the basis of two specimens collected from the subterranean cave system of Klapanunggal karst area, Bogor Regency, West Java Province, Java Island, Indonesia. The new species is unique among its congeners in completely lacking eyes, its ocular vestige being marked by an orbital concavity fully covered with skin, and with no orbital rim. It also differs distinctly from most species of Barbodes by having relatively long paired fins (pectoral fin 26.0–31.4% SL; pelvic fin 21.5–24.4% SL), the adpressed tips of each overlapping the basal area of the adjacent posterior (pelvic and anal, respectively) fins; and the presence of a short pelvic axillary scale with a rounded posterior margin. Barbodes klapanunggalensis sp. nov. is further distinguished from all congeners by the following combination of characters: head length 32.9–35.3% SL; pre-pectoral fin length 32.6–33.6% SL; pre-pelvic fin length 54.0–59.6% SL; anal-fin base length 9.7–11.8% SL; caudal peduncle depth 13.2–18.2% SL; completely nonpigmented body; and all fins with translucent interradial membranes and light cream to brownish rays. As reflected by its highly troglomorphic features, the new species is strictly adapted to cave habitats. Its small population size, coupled with a high level of potential threats to its known habitat, suggest that future conservation efforts will become necessary.
["Cave-dwelling fish"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Species diversity of bdelloid rotifer (Rotifera, Bdelloidea) in different areas in China, with a description of two new species
China is one of the most biodiverse countries worldwide, with a variety of landforms and climatic conditions. However, the diversity and biogeographic distribution of bdelloid rotifers, one of the most widespread microscopic organisms worldwide, have received little attention in China. In order to understand the species diversity of bdelloid rotifers in China, a large-scale survey of different areas (such as karst areas, islands, and plateaus) and microhabitats (such as moss, leaf litter, and soil) was conducted using 299 samples from seven provinces from 2018 to 2022. A total of 109 bdelloid rotifer species were identified, including three newly recorded genera, 26 newly recorded species, and two new species (Adineta jinan Wang & Yang, sp. nov. and Philodina chinensis Wang & Örstan, sp. nov.), increasing the species richness of bdelloid rotifers in China to 141. Morphological variations among P. chinensis populations from three different regions were identified. This study indicated that the species diversity of bdelloid rotifers in China is high, especially in the Oriental region, and both endemic and rare species exist in different regions and habitats. Further, the challenges are highlighted with corresponding suggestions for research on the diversity and biogeographic distribution of bdelloid rotifers in China. Notably, our findings indicated that a survey of bdelloid rotifers in China is indispensable for a comprehensive understanding of their global biodiversity and biogeography.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

Centipedes (Myriapoda, Chilopoda) of Aldabra Atoll (Seychelles)
Centipedes collected during Royal Society surveys of the arthropod fauna of the Aldabra Atoll in 1968–1975 are identified, described, and illustrated to provide the first checklist to the Aldabran centipede fauna, comprising 12 species. These newly include the lithobiomorph Lamyctes tristani (Pocock, 1893), the scolopendromorphs Scolopendra morsitans Linnaeus 1758, Cryptops cf. japonicus Takakuwa, 1934, Cryptops mauritianus Verhoeff, 1939, and Cryptops nigropictus Takakuwa, 1936, and the geophilomorphs Ityphilus cf. taeniaformis (Lawrence, 1960), Mecistocephalus angusticeps (Ribaut, 1914), Mecistocephalus lohmanderi Verhoeff, 1939, Orphnaeus dekanius Verhoeff, 1938, Ribautia cf. paucipes Attems, 1952, and Tuoba sydneyensis (Pocock, 1891). The geophilomorph genera Hovanyx Lawrence, 1960, syn. nov., and Mixophilus Silvestri, 1929, syn. nov., are revised in light of the examined material and hereby designated junior subjective synonyms of Tuoba Chamberlin, 1920 with the species Geophilus lemuricus Verhoeff, 1939, syn. nov., and Hovanyx waterloti Lawrence, 1960, syn. nov., designated as junior subjective synonyms of T. sydneyensis. The oryid genus Nycternyssa Crabill, 1959, syn. nov., is revised and designated a junior subjective synonym of Orphnaeus Meinert, 1870. New data on intraspecific morphological variation are presented for C. nigropictus, with the validity of Cryptops daszaki Lewis, 2002 being questioned following examination of its type material. The affinities and possible origins of the Aldabran centipede fauna are found to be mainly East African, with several species occurring across other islands in the Western Indian Ocean.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Addenda and corrigenda: Angus RB, Maté JF, Angus EM, Král D (2024) Towards a revision of the Palaearctic species of Aphodius Hellwig, 1798, subgenus Liothorax Motschulsky, 1860 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Aphodiinae). ZooKeys 1207: 205–299. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1207.117225
Corrigenda to the abovementioned paper are given, as well as new data on Aphodius (Liothorax) felix Angus et al., 2024 and A. (L.) bellumgerens Angus et al., 2024
["Corrections"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Revision of the genus Ninomimus Lindberg, 1934 (Hemiptera, Lygaeoidea, Ninidae), with the description of a new species from China
The species of Ninomimus Lindberg, 1934 are reviewed. A new species, Ninomimus fuscus sp. nov., is described from Hunan Province, China. It differs from its two congeners in its shiny body and translucid hemelytra. A diagnosis of the genus, a key to the included species, photographs of habitus and male genitalia of selected species, and micrographs of the pruinose area of the type species are also presented.
["Heteroptera"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Three new species of Batrisini (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from southeast Xizang, China
Three new species of the ant-loving beetle tribe Batrisini, Reitter, 1882 (Pselaphinae: Batrisitae) from southeast Xizang, China are described: Arthromelodes lhunzensis sp. nov., Tribasodites liangi sp. nov., and Tribasodites yumaicus sp. nov. Illustrations of the habitus and diagnostic features of these species are provided to aid identification. With these additions, the number of batrisine species known from Xizang increases to 83.
["Ant-loving beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the North American genus Supralathosea Barnes & Benjamin (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Oncocnemidinae) with description of two genera and three species
The noctuid genus Supralathosea Barnes & Benjamin (Noctuidae, Oncocnemidinae) is revised to include three species for the United States of America, Supralathosea baboquivariensis Barnes & Benjamin from southeast Arizona, Supralathosea yavapai sp. nov. from central Arizona, and Supralathosea solastella sp. nov. from Texas. Two genera are described for species formerly included in Supralathosea. Infralathosea gen. nov. includes Infralathosea pronuba comb. nov. from Arizona and New Mexico and Infralathosea unicornis sp. nov. from west Texas. Eulathosea gen. nov. contains only Eulathosea obtusa Smith, comb. nov. from Arizona. A key to genera and species is presented and adults and genitalia of all taxa are illustrated. Infralathosea and Eulathosea are assigned to Oncocnemidinae based on molecular evidence.
["Amphipyrinae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

A new species of the rib-degenerated loach, genus Protocobitis (Cypriniformes, Cobitidae), from Guangxi, China
A new species of the genus Protocobitis is described based on morphological comparisons and molecular analyses from specimens of a subterranean tributary of the Hongshui River, Lingyun County, Baise City, and a cave in Jinya Township, Fengshan County, Hechi City, Guangxi, China. Both morphological and molecular data support the validity of Protocobitis longibarba sp. nov. The new species can be distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characteristics: whole body except for head and area between pectoral-fin and pelvic-fin origin sparsely covered with minute scales; barbels elongate; five or six branched pectoral-fin rays and four branched pelvic-fin rays; vertebrae 4+42. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian-inference phylogenetic trees exhibited congruent topological structures, exhibiting high node support for the monophyly of Protocobitis longibarba (BPP = 1; BS = 100), which was clustered with the other congeners.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Phloeosinus metasequoiae sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Phloeosinini), a new insect pest of Metasequoia glyptostroboides in China
We describe herein a previously unknown species of bark beetle, Phloeosinus metasequoiae Ning, sp. nov., which was discovered in the Xingdoushan National Nature Reserve, Hubei Province, China. This new species can be distinguished from other species in the genus Phloeosinus Chapuis, 1869 by its deeply emarginate compound eyes, coarse frontal and prothoracic surfaces, reticulate texture, and deeply V-shaped basal margin of the elytra. Phylogenetic analyses based on the cytochrome oxidase I (COI) and the large nuclear ribosomal subunit (28S) genes indicated that the new species represents an independent lineage with the closely related Phloeosinus aubei (Perris, 1885), to which it has a 95% similarity. The new species is known only from the type locality. Diagnoses, descriptions, photographs, and a distribution map are presented, along with a description of host plant damage.
["Bark beetle"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new flea beetle genus from sub-Saharan Africa, and taxonomic remarks on the Blepharida genera group in the Afrotropical region (Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
Cladocera fulvipennis Jacoby is transferred to Afrotropicaltica gen. nov., here described. The new genus belongs to the group of Afrotropical genera traditionally attributed to the Blepharida group: Blepharidina Bechyné, Calotheca Heyden, Diamphidia Gerstaecker, Polyclada Chevrolat, and Xanthophysca Fairmaire. A diagnostic key to these genera, and the list of species currently attributed to Diamphidia and Polyclada are provided based on type material and original species descriptions. Species and genera whose taxonomic position needs a revision were identified. Finally, the following synonymy is proposed: Cladocera fulvipennis Jacoby, 1895 = Blepharida favareli Achard, 1922, syn. nov.
["Afrotropicaltica"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Carulaspis silvestrii Lupo (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Diaspididae): redescription and neotype designation, with a key to Carulaspis MacGillivray species
The insect genus Carulaspis MacGillivray, associated with Pinidae and Magnoliidae, includes six species: C. juniperi, C. minima, C. visci, C. atlantica, C. taxicola and C. silvestrii. The first description of C. silvestrii lacks key morphological features that are of paramount importance for species identification. Carulaspis silvestrii type specimens also remain undiscovered, suggesting a potential loss of taxon information. This study provides a detailed redescription of C. silvestrii, including drawings, SEM images and neotype designation for taxonomic stability. For the first time, molecular characterization of C. silvestrii was made using a partial 28S ribosomal gene. In addition, a morphological key for distinguishing species of Carulaspis is provided to aid the scientific community in taxonomic and identification endeavors.
["28S ribosomal gene"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Barbastella caspica (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in China: first record and complete mitochondrial genome
The Caspian barbastelle, Barbastella caspica, has spread widely in the Caspian region, Iran, and Central Asia; however, there is no evidence of its occurrence in China so far. During a field investigation, we collected a single specimen of B. caspica in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. At the same time, we obtained the free-flight echolocation calls of the bat. It omitted signals with start frequency of 33.15 ± 1.43 kHz, end frequency of 29.82 ± 0.40 kHz, frequency of most energy 31.48 ± 0.40 kHz, duration of 2.43 ± 0.24 ms, and a pulse interval of 246.57 ± 9.48 ms, which are probably type-I sounds emitted through the mouth. We also sequenced its entire mitochondrial genome to elucidate the genomic structure and its evolutionary relationships with closely related Barbastella. The mitochondrial genome of B. caspica spans 16,933 bp, comprising 13 protein-encoding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and a displacement loop/control region. Consistent with previous bat mitogenome reports, the majority of mitochondrial genes are encoded on the heavy chain. A phylogenetic analysis based on 13 protein-coding genes revealed that Rhogeessa, Plecotus, and B. caspica formed a clade within Vespertilionidae. Barbastella caspica was found to be a sister species to B. beijingensis and B. leucomelas in phylogenetic trees using the cytochrome b and ND1 gene sequences. This is the first report of the mitogenome of a member of the genus Barbastella, as well as the first record of the distribution of B. caspica in China and first documentation of its echolocation calls.
["Echolocation calls"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Three new species of Polleniidae (Diptera) from China
Dexopollenia guangxiensis Liu, Li & Yao, sp. nov., Dexopollenia chongqingensis Liu, Li & Yao, sp. nov. and Xanthotryxus huapingensis Liu, Li & Yao, sp. nov. from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Chongqing are described and illustrated. Keys to species of the genera Dexopollenia and Xanthotryxus from China are provided. Photographs of the habitus and male genitalia of the new species are also provided.
["Calyptratae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Discovery of the males of Lasioglossum (Eickwortia) hienae and L. (E.) alexanderi, with new distributional records for the species (Apoidea, Halictidae)
Within the diverse genus Lasioglossum, the subgenus Eickwortia as currently understood, encompasses three characteristic species from mountainous areas in Mexico and Central America. Prior to this work only Lasioglossum (Eickwortia) nycteris had descriptions for both male and female. Here we describe and illustrate the previously unknown males of L. (E.) hienae and L. (E.) alexanderi, providing new distributional data for both species, and an updated species identification key for the group.
["Costa Rica"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

A cryptic new species of tiger swallowtail (Lepidoptera, Papilionidae) from eastern North America
In the eastern Great Lakes region of North America, two tiger swallowtail species have previously been recognized, Papilio glaucus Linnaeus, 1758 and Papilio canadensis Rothschild & Jordan, 1906. A third entity, the Midsummer Tiger Swallowtail, has been treated as a P. glaucus × canadensis hybrid, and exhibits a mosaic of both intermediate and unique morphological and biological traits. Here we demonstrate that rather than being a localized, historically recent hybrid phenomenon, the Midsummer Tiger Swallowtail maintains its morphological and physiological distinctness over a large geographic region in the absence of one or both putative parental species, and was first documented in the literature nearly 150 years ago. Papilio solstitius sp. nov. is physiologically unique in delaying post-diapause development, which results in allochronic isolation between the spring flights of P. glaucus and P. canadensis, and the late summer flight of P. glaucus. Similarly, the geographic range of Papilio solstitius spans the region between the northern terminus of P. glaucus and southern limits of P. canadensis, remaining distinct in areas of sympatry. Defining the taxonomic identity of this unique evolutionary lineage provides an important baseline for further inquiry into what has served as an exemplary species group in evolutionary study.
["cryptic species"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Lysathia flavipes and Lysathia cilliersae Cabrera sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae): genetic and morphological unravelling of biocontrol agents for two invasive aquatic plants
In the search for specific natural enemies to control two invasive aquatic plants (IAP) from South America, Ludwigia grandiflora subsp. hexapetala (Onagraceae) and Myriophyllum aquaticum (Haloragaceae), taxonomic challenges associated with two Lysathia Bechyné, 1959 (Chrysomelidae; Alticini) species had to be resolved. Lysathia flavipes (Boheman, 1859) exhibits significant morphological variation, causes heavy damage to both IAPs, and may represent more than one species due to the phylogenetic gap between hosts. Additionally, an undescribed Lysathia species (previously published as Lysathia sp.), sourced from Brazil, has been successfully used as a control agent for M. aquaticum in South Africa since 1994. An integrative taxonomic approach combining genetic and morphological analyses was employed. A lectotype and paralectotypes for Graptodera flavipes Boheman, 1859 are here designated. Phylogenetic studies revealed that L. flavipes had greater genetic and morphological variation than originally described, and no evidence suggested that L. flavipes represented a species complex associated with its host plants. As a result, the species description was expanded. On the other hand, genetic and morphological differences such as body size, colouration, and genital structures further supported the description of Lysathia cilliersae Cabrera, sp. nov. and its differentiation from other closely related species, including L. flavipes and L. ludoviciana (Fall, 1910). Specimens of L. cilliersae sp. nov. collected in Misiones, Argentina, matched those from South Africa. Genetic sequences correlated with morphological vouchers, images, and illustrations of morphology and genitalia, as well as new distribution records, are provided. This research contributes to the taxonomic knowledge of the Lysathia genus and supports accurate species identification in applied entomological contexts, such as biological control programmes.
["Alticini"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of the genus Amolops (Anura, Ranidae) from the Gaoligong Mountains, China
The Gaoligong Mountains lie at the intersection of three global biodiversity hotspots. In recent years, with the continuous deepening of fieldwork in the region, studies have increasingly indicated that the amphibian diversity of this region remains poorly understood. During herpetological surveys in 2023, a series of Amolops specimens were collected from the Gaoligong Mountains of Yunnan Province, China. The integrated results of morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses indicate the presence of a separate and previously unknown lineage in the A. viridimaculatus group, which we herein confirm as a new species, Amolops gudao Yu, Wu, Lu & Che, sp. nov. Our discovery increases the number of Amolops species recorded in China to 59, and the total number of Amolops species to 86. The discovery of a new species in the Gaoligong Mountains further highlights the underestimated amphibian diversity in the region, emphasizing the need for continued fieldwork and research. Furthermore, Amolops gudao Yu, Wu, Lu & Che, sp. nov. exhibits obvious intraspecific variation in color patterns, a phenomenon also reported in several species within the A. viridimaculatus group, such as A. viridimaculatus and A. kaulbacki. Future studies on the taxonomy of A. viridimaculatus group should be careful with the use of color patterns as a diagnostic characteristic.
["Amolops viridimaculatus group"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Branchiostegus sanae, a new species of deepwater tilefish (Eupercaria, Branchiostegidae) from the South China Sea
A new species of deepwater tilefish, Branchiostegus sanae sp. nov., is described based on five specimens collected from the area between the Xisha Islands and Hainan Island, China. This species can be distinguished from congeners by its unique cheek marker and a combination of characteristics. Among the tilefish species known to be distributed in the South China Sea, this species is the only one with vertical stripes on the body. Based on the COI, CytB, and 12S sequences, a maximum-likelihood phylogenetic tree shows that the B. sanae sp. nov. forms a separate clade and is the sister group to the clade consisting of B. sawakinensis, B. albus, B. argentatus, B. biendong, B. japonicus, B. auratus, and B. okinawaensis. A key to the genus Branchiostegus is also compiled.
["Bottom fish"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

DNA barcoding, integrative taxonomy, citizen science, and Bush Blitz surveys combine to reveal 34 new species of Apanteles (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) in Australia
Microgastrinae is a megadiverse subfamily of wasps in the family Braconidae. As parasitoids of caterpillars, members of the subfamily play important roles in regulating native caterpillar populations, and several species are used commercially as biological control agents. The genus Apanteles comprises a large portion of total microgastrine diversity, however it has not been studied in Australia for more than 30 years, with only nine described species previously known from the continent. We explore the diversity and systematics of Apanteles in Australia, using cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and Wingless (wg) DNA barcodes from more than 400 Australian Apanteles specimens. Using molecular species delimitation in combination with reduced morphological diagnoses, at least 48 distinct molecular lineages of Apanteles are confirmed in Australia, and 34 new species are formally described, all authored by Slater-Baker, Fagan-Jeffries, Fernández-Triana, Portmann & Oestmann: A. adustus, A. aeternus, A. alatomicans, A. allapsus, A. amicalis, A. apollo, A. apricus, A. artemis, A. aurantius, A. auroralis, A. banrock, A. breviflagellarius, A. brockhedgesi, A. cuprum, A. darthvaderi, A. doreenwatlerae, A. ethanbeaveri, A. fenestrinus, A. ferripulvis, A. focusalis, A. hades, A. insulanus, A. kelpiellus, A. lamingtonensis, A. ligdus, A. magicus, A. margaritarius, A. pellucidus, A. phantasmatus, A. pharusalis, A. ramsaris, A. rufiterra, A. sinusulus, and A. translucentis.
["Insect investigators"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Redescription of Papuanatula Lugo-Ortiz & McCafferty (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae), with description of a new subgenus and 20 new species
Material from the type localities of most described species of Papuanatula and rich material newly collected across New Guinea and on the island Sulawesi form the bases for this comprehensive study of the genus, including the description of a new subgenus Papuafiliola subgen. nov. and 20 new species. Species delimitation is based on morphology of larvae and partly also imagos, supported by mitochondrial DNA data (COI) for some of the species. The total number of species is augmented from six to 26. The genus has a disjunct distribution on the islands New Guinea (incl. New Britain) and Sulawesi. A key to the larvae of all species is provided. Morphological similarities, the relationship of Papuanatula to other genera of Baetidae, and possible explanations for the high diversity in New Guinea are discussed.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Redescription of the Neotropical genus Agathomerus (Coleoptera, Megalopodidae, Megalopodinae) and description of three new species from Mexico
Agathomerus Lacordaire and A. pulcher Lacordaire are redescribed, and three new species of the genus are described: Agathomerus magdalenae sp. nov., A. espinosaorganistai sp. nov., and A. santiagoi sp. nov. Illustrations of the habitus, aedeagus and spermatheca of the four species are provided. Agathomerus bichito Monrós, A. batesi Baly, and A. superbus Pic are proposed as new synonyms of Agathomerus pulcher Lacordaire.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new wolf-spider species in the genus Hippasosa from Asia (Araneae, Lycosidae)
Two new species of the wolf-spider genus Hippasosa Roewer, 1960 are described from Asia: Hippasosa thailandica sp. nov. (♂) from Thailand and H. yunnanensis sp. nov. (♂♀) from China. Detailed species descriptions, morphological photographs, genitalia illustrations, and distribution maps of the new species are presented. Photographs of H. qiongzhongensis (Yin & Peng, 1997) are also provided for comparison purposes.

A new skink of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950 (Squamata, Scincidae) from Son La Province, northwestern Vietnam
A new species of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950 is described from northern Vietnam based on morphological and molecular evidence. Scincella truongi sp. nov. is characterized by a combination of the following characters: size medium (SVL up to 59.4 mm); primary temporals 2; external ear opening without lobules; loreals two; supralabials seven or eight; infralabials six or seven; nuchals in three pairs; midbody scales in 28 rows; dorsal scales smooth, in six rows across the back; paravertebral scales 60–67, not widened; ventral scales in 60–70 rows; ten smooth lamellae beneath finger IV and 13–15 beneath toe IV; toes not reaching to fingers when limbs adpressed along body; dorsal surface of body and tail bronze brown with few black spots, a dark stripe running from nostril to eye and extending from posterior corner of eye along upper part of flank to the middle of the tail. In the phylogenetic analyses, the new species is recovered as an independent lineage with no clear sister taxon and at least 17.3% genetic divergence from other species in the genus based on a fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

An integrative approach to the delimitation of pseudocryptic species in the Eucyclops speratus complex (Copepoda, Cyclopoida) with a description of a new species
Eucyclops speratus (Lilljeborg, 1901) (Copepoda, Cyclopoida, Cyclopidae) was studied using various methods. Molecular genetic methods (comparison of COI and ITSn molecular markers) have shown that this species represents a species complex, and the following methods were used to search for differences between the species: analysis of qualitative and quantitative characters, linear morphometrics, landmark-based geometric morphometrics, and integumental pore pattern of the cephalothorax. Eucyclops sibiricus sp. nov. from Middle Siberia is described. The two studied species can be considered pseudocryptic; the main morphological difference between the species is the number of setules on the inner side of the first and second exopod segments of the fourth pair of swimming legs: E. sibiricus sp. nov. has 6–10 and 7–17 setules, respectively; E. speratus has 0–3 and 0–6 setules, respectively. The morphometry and integumental pore pattern of the cephalothorax were ineffective for identification and separation of species. The existing previous records of E. speratus were also analyzed, and the records of this species in the Irkutsk region (Russia), as well as in Japan and Korea, are attributed to E. sibiricus sp. nov.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Revision of the Chinese endemic genus Megadrypta Sciaky & Anichtchenko, 2020 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Dryptini), with description of a new species
The species of the genus Megadrypta Sciaky & Anichtchenko, 2020 are reviewed. A new species M. maozhoui sp. nov. is described from Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, China (type locality: Tiantaishan, Qionglai City, Sichuan). New provincial records of M. mirabilis Sciaky & Anichtchenko, 2020 are reported as well. A key of the genus Megadrypta is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Mutatus gen. nov., a new genus of Phrurolithidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from China, with descriptions of four new species
Mutatus gen. nov. is described from southwest China, including four new species: M. gelao sp. nov. (♂♀, Guizhou Province), M. tianyan sp. nov. (♂♀, Hubei Province), M. tujia sp. nov. (♂♀, Hubei Province), and M. yintiaoling sp. nov. (♂, Chongqing Municipality). This new genus can be differentiated from other phrurolithid genera by the male palp which has a prolateral tegular apophysis and tegular sheet, and by a small protuberance on the female epigynal plate.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Reniscymnus gen. nov., a new genus of Scymnini (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from the Oriental region
Ladybird beetles (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) are a species-rich, ecologically diverse and economically important group of insects. A new ladybird genus of Scymnini, Reniscymnus gen. nov., is described from China and Laos, along with two new species, Reniscymnus cordatus Peng & Chen, sp. nov. and Reniscymnus explanatus Peng & Chen, sp. nov. This newly identified genus can be distinguished from the remaining members of the tribe Scymnini by its short antenna consisting of eight antennomeres and an inflated antennal club bearing two extremely long setae; the narrow frons; the slightly tapering apically terminal maxillary palpomere; as well as the recurved and laterally almost complete abdominal postcoxal lines that enclose a distinctly wide area. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and a key to identify these two species within the new genus are provided. Morphological similarities and relationships of the new genus with other genera of Scymnini are discussed.
["Biological control"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Review of the genus Apiocephalus Gahan, 1898 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) with description of a new species
Taxonomic notes on the genus Apiocephalus Gahan, 1898 are provided. The genus is newly recorded in China with the description of a new species, Apiocephalus yangmingae sp. nov., from the Qinling Mountains. Brief redescriptions of Apiocephalus punctipennis Gahan, 1898 and Apiocephalus licheneus Gahan, 1906 are presented, along with their holotype photographs. A key to the known species is given.
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Phylogenomics of North American cybaeid spiders (Araneae, Cybaeidae), including the description of new taxa from the Klamath Mountains Geomorphic Province
The systematics of humble-in-appearance brown spiders (“marronoids”), within a larger group of spiders with a modified retrolateral tibial apophysis (the RTA Clade), has long vexed arachnologists. Although not yet fully settled, recent phylogenomics has allowed the delimitation and phylogenetic relationships of families within marronoids to come into focus. Understanding relationships within these families still awaits more comprehensive generic-level sampling, as the majority of described marronoid genera remain unsampled for phylogenomic data. Here we conduct such an analysis in the family Cybaeidae Banks, 1892. We greatly increase generic-level sampling, assembling ultraconserved element (UCE) data for 18 of 22 described cybaeid genera, including all North American genera, and rigorously test family monophyly using a comprehensive outgroup taxon sample. We also conduct analyses of traditional Sanger loci, allowing curation of some previously published data. Our UCE phylogenomic results support the monophyly of recognized cybaeids, with strongly supported internal relationships, and evidence for five primary molecular subclades. We hypothesize potential morphological synapomorphies for most of these subclades, bringing a robust phylogenomic underpinning to cybaeid classification. A new cybaeid genus Siskiyu gen. nov. and species Siskiyu armilla sp. nov. is discovered and described from far northern California and adjacent southern Oregon and a new species in the elusive genus Cybaeozyga, C. furtiva sp. nov., is described from far northern California.
["California"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A review of the intertidal Medon Stephens (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) with description of a new species on the East Asian coasts
A taxonomic review of the seashore-inhabiting Medon Stephens along the East Asian coasts is presented based on morphological and molecular characters (COI). Specimens of Medon calculosus Ahn & Jeon, sp. nov. and M. tomokoae Shibata & Fujimoto are extremely similar to each other, although there are differences in the form and structure of the aedeagus. Detailed comparison of morphological characters and molecular analyses based on genetic divergence and gene tree monophyly for species delimitation support the validity of the new species. Intraspecific genetic divergence of COI using uncorrected p-distance among Medon individuals ranged from 0% to 0.79%, while interspecific divergence among three Korean Medon species ranged from 7.74% to 11.69%. Morphological characters of M. calculosus Ahn & Jeon, sp. nov., M. prolixus (Sharp), and M. tomokoae are compared. The new species is described with illustrations of diagnostic characters and a key to species of the East Asian coastal Medon is presented.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Honoring the Afro-Colombian musical culture with the naming of Epipedobates currulao sp. nov. (Anura, Dendrobatidae), a frog from the Pacific rainforests
The number of amphibian species described yearly shows no signs of slowing down, especially in tropical regions, implying that the biodiversity of amphibians remains woefully underestimated. A new species of poison frog is described from the Pacific lowlands of southwestern Colombia: Epipedobates currulao sp. nov., named for the Pacific music and dance genre known as "currulao" or "bambuco viejo". This species inhabits lowland forests from 0–260 m a.s.l. This taxon differs from congeners by having a combination of bright yellow blotches in the dorsal anterior region of the thigh and upper arm, homogenous dark-brown dorsal coloration, and advertisement calls of long duration and many pulses. We also describe the courtship call of E. currulao sp. nov., which is lower in frequency and shorter in duration than its advertisement call. Molecular phylogenetic analyses confirm the monophyly of the populations sampled and its position as the sister species of Epipedobates narinensis, which occurs in southwestern Colombia. Among species of Epipedobates, the new species has been previously confused with E. boulengeri, but the two species are allopatric and represent two divergent clades (1.77% divergent for 12S–16S and 5.39% for CYTB). These species can be distinguished by the presence of a bright yellow blotch on the dorsal anterior region of the thigh and on the upper arm of E. currulao sp. nov., blotches that are either more white than yellow or absent in E. boulengeri. In addition, the advertisement calls are distinct, with E. currulao sp. nov. having a single but long call in each call series while E. boulengeri has 2–6 calls in a series with each call being much shorter in length. Epipedobates currulao sp. nov. is the most northern species of Epipedobates, which extends southwards along the western edge of the Andes. Known as the Chocó, this biogeographic region has been largely converted to agriculture in Ecuador and is experiencing widespread transformation in Colombia, which may endanger E. currulao sp. nov. and biodiversity in the region. A Spanish translation of the main text is available in Suppl. material 8.
["Alpha taxonomy"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Another new karst-dwelling rock gecko in the Cnemaspis siamensis group (Reptilia, Gekkonidae) from Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand
A new species of the Cnemaspis siamensis group is described from Wang Khrachae District, Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand based on morphological and molecular data. The new species, Cnemaspis enneaporus Rujirawan, Aksornneam & Aowphol, sp. nov., is distinguished from other species in the C. siamensis group by having the combination of SVL 42.2 mm in adult male (n = 1), 43.7 mm in adult female (n = 1); eight supralabials; seven or eight infralabials; ventral scales smooth; nine continuous precloacal pores in male; 17 or 18 paravertebral tubercles linearly arranged; tubercles on lower flanks present; lateral caudal furrows present; no caudal tubercles in the lateral furrows; ventrolateral caudal tubercles present on original portion of tail; caudal tubercles not encircling tail; subcaudals smooth; no enlarged median subcaudal row; two postcloacal tubercles on each side of tail; no shield-like subtibial scales; subtibial scales smooth; no enlarged submetatarsal scales; 26–28 subdigital lamellae on the fourth toe; sexually dimorphic for dorsal and ventral colour pattern; prescapular marking absent; gular marking absent; and yellow colouration in life on all ventral surfaces of head, body and tail in adult male. Phylogenetically, the new species is recovered as the sister taxon to C. huaseesom, but the two species are separated by 8.3–9.4% uncorrected pairwise genetic divergences in the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene and flanking tRNAs.
["Cnemaspis enneaporus"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Spatial activity and sheltering behaviour of terrestrial isopods (Isopoda, Oniscidea): a field experiment
A field study of spatial activity and sheltering behaviour of terrestrial isopods was carried out using Porcellio scaber and Armadillidium versicolor, two model species of woodlice. Individuals of both species were colour-marked and released into an area with artificial shelters, and their behaviour was then observed for several days. Vagility of both species was found to be similar; their dispersal ability was measured to be at least 1.1 m/h. The number of animals recaptured declined over time as they left the field-experiment area. The provided shelters were found to be unevenly inhabited both in relation to their position and the time elapsed since the beginning of the experiment. Nocturnal activity (night and dawn) of both species was confirmed.
["Armadillidium versicolor"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

The effect of formaldehyde solution in pitfall traps on the probability of catching woodlice (Isopoda, Oniscidea)
Pitfall traps containing a fixative solution are commonly used by ecologists to study ground-dwelling invertebrates. The effect of the solution on the animals being caught is a frequent topic of studies. Our study compares the effect of formaldehyde solution, water, and the random probability of catch simulated by using dry traps. Ninety pitfall traps were placed in a floodplain forest ground: one-third used 4% formaldehyde solution as a fixative, one-third used water, and one-third was left without any liquid to simulate the random probability of a catch. A layer of dry wood chips was used in the dry traps to reduce predation between the caught animals. The traps were placed in the field between April and May 2022 and emptied twice a week. Both the numbers of animals and the species caught were found to be significantly affected by the fixative solution in use. Significantly more woodlice were caught in traps filled with water; these traps also attracted significantly more Porcellium conspersum and Trachelipus rathkii compared to the dry traps. Average day temperature and the order the traps were checked (i.e. date) had an influence on the animals caught as well. Additional laboratory experiments with Porcellio scaber confirmed that terrestrial isopods avoid formaldehyde pitfall traps more than those with water.
["Barber traps"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

A new species of woodlouse (Isopoda, Oniscidea) from the Canarian laurel forest
A new species of terrestrial isopod, Porcellio aguerensis Orihuela-Rivero, sp. nov. of the family Porcellionidae (Oniscidea), is described from the laurel forest of Tenerife, Canary Islands. This new species belongs to the Atlantic group (“scaber”) as defined by Vandel due to the structure of the male pleopod 1 and its “primitive” glandular system. Some diagnostic characters that allow it to be differentiated from other species are revealed, such as (i) the smooth dorsal surface, (ii) the sinuosity of the posterior margin of the first pereonites, (iii) the configuration of the glandular system, and (iv) the structure of the male pleopod 1 exopod. The affinity of Porcellio aguerensis Orihuela-Rivero, sp. nov. with the morphologically closest members of the genus is discussed, both with continental and insular species, hypothesizing a relationship between the Canarian species of Porcellio and the “primitive” continental lineages of the genus. A key of the Porcellio species occurring in Tenerife is included. The conservation of Porcellio aguerensis Orihuela-Rivero, sp. nov. within a scenario of increasing dominance of invasive species is discussed.
["Canary Islands"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

On Cytheridella whitmani sp. nov. (Crustacea, Ostracoda) from Cape Cod (Massachusetts, USA), with a reappraisal of the taxonomy of the genus
Cytheridella whitmani Martens, sp. nov. is described from lakes on Cape Cod (MA, USA). The species differs from its congeners mainly by the shape of the female carapace and by the morphology of the hemipenis, especially of the distal lobe and the copulatory process. The literature on the genus is reviewed and the synonymy of the fossil Cytheridella boldii Purper, 1974 with the type species C. ilosvayi Daday, 1905, both described from South America, is confirmed. The status of Cytheridella americana (Furtos, 1936) is reverted to that of “uncertain species”. Beside the type species and the new species, the genus currently includes only three further species from Africa: C. monodi Klie, 1936, C. damasi Klie, 1944 (with synonym C. chariessa Rome, 1977), and C. tepida Victor, 1987. The morphology of the new species is discussed in comparison with the congeneric species, especially regarding the valve ornamentation, the structure and function of the third thoracopod, the hemipenis and the caudal ramus. It is suggested that C. whitmani is a recent invasive species in the lakes of the Cape Cod peninsula. Its occurrence at northern latitudes is unexpected, as its congeneric species are consistently (sub-) tropical.
["African species"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Soil campodeids (Diplura, Campodeidae) of Eastern Europe, in Romanian and Bulgarian reliefs
This study presents data on soil campodeids collected in Romania and Bulgaria in recent years. The collection comprises 12 species of genus Campodea Westwood, 1842 in total. A new species, Campodea (Dicampa) transylvanica Sendra, sp. nov. is described from Zarand and Făgăraș mountains in Romania. Campodea (Campodea) plusiochaeta Silvestri, 1912 is newly recorded for the Romanian fauna, while Campodea (Paurocampa) ruseki Condé, 1966 represents a new record for Bulgaria. New distributional data are also provided for the remaining ten species.
["Campodea"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species"]

Complete mitochondrial genome and phylogenetic analysis of the Atrato slider, Trachemys medemi (Testudines, Emydidae)
The mitochondrial genome of three Trachemys medemi was sequenced and annotated for the first time. The mitochondrial genome is a circular DNA molecule of 16,711–16,810 bp in size, with 60.9% AT content. It includes 13 protein-coding genes, two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and the non-coding control region. The genome composition is characterized by a positive AT skew (0.123) and a negative GC skew (-0.342). Phylogenetic analyses based on complete mitogenomes, which lack some Trachemys species, placed T. medemi as sister to T. venusta. Phylogenies from the same dataset, but including available shorter mtDNA information for most Trachemys species, recovered T. medemi as sister to T. dorbigni, and this clade was sister to T. venusta, T. yaquia, and T. ornata. The newly obtained data are valuable for future mitogenomic investigations on Trachemys. Furthermore, our results underline the impact of incomplete taxon sampling.
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Sounds of the northern Andes: the calls of a diverse and endangered frog community (Amphibia, Anura) from Ecuador
The emission of calls is one of the most distinctive and important reproductive traits in anurans. Given the biological significance of vocalizations, this trait is also useful for identification proposes and is key in recognizing cryptic diversity. However, the majority of the calls from tropical ecosystems, especially in the high Andean mountains, are unknown. Between 2016 and 2021, a total of 14 expeditions were conducted to the forests and moorlands of the eastern and western Andean Mountain range of the province of Carchi-Ecuador, at elevations ranging from 2694 to 3848 m a.s.l. The objective of these expeditions was to record the calls of the anuran fauna present in these ecosystems. In total, 30 anuran species were recorded, and calls of 20 species were described, 15 of which are described and reported for the first time in the present study. The call of Hyloxalus delatorreae, a critically endangered species, is described with a remarkable recording of the call of Niceforonia brunnea, a species considered mute. In addition, nine are candidate species, including the first record of Pristimantis farisorum for Ecuador. This study represents the most comprehensive and accurate acoustic documentation of a highland community, which will facilitate taxonomic and conservation work in the area.
["Andean mountains"]
["Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

An integrative approach to a revision of the freshwater mussel genus Songkhlanaia (Bivalvia, Unionidae), with the description of a new species
Mainland Southeast Asia, also known as Indochina, is recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot for freshwater mussels, hosting a significant number of species and exhibiting high levels of endemism. Recently, the monotypic genus Songkhlanaia was described from the Songkhla Lake Basin in southern Thailand. In this study, two additional lineages are revealed, S. moreleti comb. nov. and S. songkhramensis sp. nov., from the Mekong Basin through an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses. The multi-locus phylogenetic inference supported the monophyly of the genus and further elucidated the sister relationship between S. moreleti and the new species, and with S. tamodienica positioned as a basal lineage. Pairwise uncorrected COI p-distances among these three species also supported the species validity and ranged from 4.2% to 8.24%. Notably, S. songkhramensis sp. nov. and S. moreleti exhibit similarities in shell morphology; however, the new species can be differentiated by more robust pseudocardinal teeth. Both species are distinguishable from S. tamodienica by their approximately twice larger size, more inflated shells, and more prominent, roughened, irregular growth lines on the shell surface. Furthermore, based on the current data, these three species are recognized as endemic and are restricted to disjunct biogeographic areas in Indochina: S. tamodienica in the Songkhla Lake Basin in southern Thailand, S. moreleti in the Tonle Sap and Lower Mekong basins, and S. songkhramensis sp. nov. in the Songkhram Basin and its nearby tributaries of the Middle Mekong Basin.
["Freshwater mussels"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Shoulder and Clavicle Injuries"]

Two new species of the Clubiona corticalis group (Araneae, Clubionidae) from Yunnan, China
Two new species belonging to the corticalis group of the sac spider genus Clubiona Latreille, 1804 are described from both males and females: Clubiona longyangensis sp. nov. and Clubiona multiprocessa sp. nov. The two species are currently known to occur in Baoshan City and Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China, respectively. Detailed descriptions, diagnoses, and photographs of the two species are provided.
["Clubionids"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Two new species of the genus Veraphis Casey (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae) from Korea
Two new species, Veraphis odaesanensis sp. nov. and Veraphis myeonggiensis sp. nov., of the ant-like stone beetle, are described from the Korean Peninsula. The Korean fauna of Veraphis Casey now comprises three species, including V. engelmarki koreanus. This study provides habitus images and aedeagus illustrations of the new species.
["Ant-like stone beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Cirrhimuraena taiwanensis sp. nov., a new species of cirri-bearing eel (Anguilliformes, Ophichthidae) from Yilan, northeastern Taiwan
A new species of cirri-bearing eel, Cirrhimuraena taiwanensis sp. nov. (Anguilliformes, Ophichthidae), is described based on a specimen collected from the estuary of the Langyang River (Yilan County), northeastern Taiwan. The new species is distinct from all congeners, except C. odishaensis and C. orientalis, in possessing a single row of mandibular teeth. Cirrhimuraena taiwanensis sp. nov. differs from C. odishaensis in having significantly shorter pectoral fins and fewer vertebrae, and it is distinguished from C. orientalis by its larger head, notably more total vertebrae, and a dorsal fin that originates well behind the gill opening. In the neighbor-joining tree based on COI sequences, the new species forms a distinct monophyletic group; thus, it is clearly separable from congeners both morphologically and genetically. With this addition, there are now 13 species in the genus Cirrhimuraena.
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

First record of Morimotobathynella Serban, 2000 (Bathynellacea, Bathynellidae) from subterranean waters of South Korea, with the description of a new species
This study describes Morimotobathynella koreana sp. nov., the first new species of Bathynellidae family reported in East Asia since 2000, and it presents the first molecular analysis using CO1 and 18S gene sequences. Morphological analysis reveals that the new species and previously known Morimotobathynella species uniquely share key characteristics in the male and female thoracopods VIII. However, the presence or absence of the median seta on the antenna exopod, along with the length differences between the four spines in the furca, distinguish the new species from M. miurai, 2000. A molecular phylogenetic analysis indicates that the new species has a relatively close relationship to species from the genus Altainella in Mongolia and Russia.
["Interstitial hyporheic zone"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Two new species of Psen Latreille, 1796 (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Crabronidae) from China, with a key to Psen species of China
Two new species of the genus Psen Latreille, 1796, namely Psen fronistriatus sp. nov. and Psen scabrosus sp. nov. are described and illustrated from China. A key to the Chinese species of Psen is also provided.
["Crabronidae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

An eastern Congolian endemic, or widespread but secretive? New data on the recently described Afrixalus lacustris (Anura, Hyperoliidae) from the Democratic Republic of the Congo
The Great Lakes spiny reed frog (Afrixalus lacustris) was recently described from transitional (submontane) forests at mid-elevations of the Albertine Rift mountains in the eastern Congolian region. Previously, because of its similarity, it had been understood to represent eastern populations of the unrelated A. laevis, which is known mainly from Cameroon. Based on DNA barcoding, we document the westward extension of the known range of A. lacustris within lowland rainforests in the Northeastern and Central Congolian Lowland Forests. One sample was represented by a larva found in a clutch in a folded leaf, a typical oviposition type for most Afrixalus species, contrary to oviposition on an unfolded leaf surface in the similar A. laevis and closely related A. dorsimaculatus and A. uluguruensis. Comparison of the advertisement call of A. lacustris from Salonga National Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo, indicates similarity to its sister species from montane areas of the Albertine Rift, the ghost spiny reed frog (A. phantasma). Phylogeographic analysis suggests that A. phantasma and A. lacustris speciated allopatrically during the Early Pleistocene, with the former having refugia in montane forests and the latter in transitional and also lowland forests. The lowland populations of A. lacustris represent distinct evolutionary lineages, which diversified probably in isolated forest refugia during the Middle Pleistocene.
["Afrotropics"]

Phylogeny of the planthopper genus Megamelus (Hemiptera, Delphacidae), with the description of two new species from South America
Megamelus is a genus of Delphacidae widely distributed and mostly associated with plants in freshwater environments. Despite various taxonomic revisions and thorough research, the delimitation of the genus, its diversity, and its evolutionary history need to be further explored. Moreover, features originally considered distinctive of the genus exhibit variation and should be reassessed. Here, the genus Megamelus in South America was examined, describing two new species, Megamelus delticus Remes Lenicov & Mariani, sp. nov. and Megamelus serpentinus Mariani & Remes Lenicov, sp. nov., and providing information on their host plants and geographical distribution. The distribution and host range knowledge of Megamelus iphigeniae and Megamelus timehri are also expanded, the male brachypter of M. timehri described for the first time, and a key to distinguish the species, based on male and female genitalia and their external morphology, is provided. Moreover, the first phylogenetic analysis of the genus is presented, based on the mitochondrial COI gene to clarify the interspecific relationships among its members. Our combined findings support the monophyly of the genus and refine diagnostic features, including the importance of the pygofer’s lobed appearance. This comprehensive revision highlights the need for further multidisciplinary approaches to fully understand the evolutionary history of Megamelus and its interactions with host plants and environments.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Taxonomic notes on the genus Yunohamella Yoshida, 2007 (Araneae, Theridiidae) from China, with two new species
Four Yunohamella species are reported from Hubei Province, China, including two new species: Y. gutenbergi R. Zhong, J. Liu & Hu, sp. nov. (♂) and Y. mohorovicici R. Zhong, J. Liu & Hu, sp. nov. (♂). Yunohamella jiugongensis (Liu & Zhong, 2023), comb. nov. is transferred from the genus Cryptachaea Archer, 1946, and Y. lyrica (Walckenaer, 1841) is newly recorded from Hubei Province and is considered as a senior synonym of Platnickina mneon (Bösenberg & Strand, 1906).

Taxonomic notes on the genus Spinosodus Breuning & de Jong, 1941 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) with a generic and specific synonym
Taxonomic notes on the genus Spinosodus Breuning & de Jong, 1941 are presented. The genus Bulbolmotega Breuning, 1966 is synonymized with Spinosodus, and Bulbolmotega sumatrensis Breuning, 1966 is recognized as a junior synonym of Spinosodus spinicollis Breuning & de Jong, 1941. Additionally, Spinosodus is redescribed, and S. rufomaculatus Breuning, 1973 is formally reported from China, Vietnam, Thailand, and India for the first time.
["Bulbolmotega"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Plectranthias raki (Teleostei, Serranidae), a new species of perchlet from mesophotic coral ecosystems of the Maldives
Herein, we describe a new species of Plectranthias perchlet found at depths of 100–125 meters in mesophotic coral ecosystems of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean. Plectranthias raki sp. nov. is unique in both morphology and coloration. The following combination of characters distinguishes it from all known congeners: dorsal fin X, 15; anal-fin rays III, 7; pectoral-fin rays 13 | 13 (13 | 12), all unbranched; principal caudal-fin rays 9 + 8; lateral line complete with 30–32 tubed scales; gill rakers 5 + 12; circumpeduncular scales 11–12; and absence of antrorse or retrorse spines on ventral margin of preopercle. Coloration in life consists of a white to light pink body with two indistinct rows of irregularly shaped red-orange to yellow-orange patches along the dorsal two-thirds of the body, a golden-yellow opercle and maxilla, an indistinct yellow stripe on the dorsal fin, two yellow spots near the base of the anal fin, and two irregularly shaped yellow-orange spots located on either side of centermost caudal-fin rays. With this publication, the genus Plectranthias now comprises 67 valid species. This discovery adds to a strong body of research highlighting the novel biodiversity of mesophotic ecosystems, especially in locations like the Indian Ocean, where few prior ichthyological surveys have been conducted.
["COI gene"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A new species of the genus Oiketicoides Heylaerts, 1885 (Lepidoptera, Psychidae) from Korea with its natural parasitoid enemy
Oiketicoides gohadoensis Roh & Lee, sp. nov. is described as new to science. The morphology of male adult, including genitalia, is described, and DNA barcodes for precise identification of the species are provided. A parasitoid, Neophryxe psychidis Townsend, 1916 (Diptera, Tachinidae) of O. gohadoensis is also reported for the first time in Korea, together with its DNA barcode sequence.
["Bagmoths"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of supergiant Bathynomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cirolanidae) from Vietnam, with notes on the taxonomy of Bathynomus jamesi Kou, Chen & Li, 2017
A new supergiant species of Bathynomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 from Vietnam is described. Bathynomus vaderi sp. nov. is characterised by its wide, rectangular clypeal region with parallel lateral margins, concave distal margin, and narrowly acute apex; the distally narrowing and posteriorly curved coxa of pereopod 7; and the presence of 11 upwardly curved pleotelson spines. The new Bathynomus is the fourth species with upwardly curved pleotelson spines and the second supergiant in the South China Sea. The taxonomy of B. jamesi Kou, Chen & Li, 2017 from the South China Sea is also discussed based on a large series of specimens. Previously reported differences in body form and pleotelson spines, which suggest that there may be two forms or species, are regarded as intraspecific variation for the time being. The contemporary culinary trend and fishing of Bathynomus in Vietnam, which have contributed to this discovery, are also discussed.
["Deep sea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

From surface to caves: new species of Diploexochus Brandt, 1833 (Oniscidea, Armadillidae) from Colombia, with the description of the first troglobitic species
Two new species of Diploexochus are described, Diploexochus cacique sp. nov. from Cerro Bañaderos in Hatonuevo, La Guajira, and Diploexochus troglobius sp. nov. from Roca Madre Cave, Toluviejo, Sucre, both from the Tropical Dry Forest (TDF) areas of the Colombian Caribbean. The latter represent the first troglobitic species of the genus. Moreover, based on specimens from Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Magdalena (type locality), Venezillo brevispinis is placed into Diploexochus and an identification key for all species of the genus is given. The present work describes the first troglobitic species of the genus, and expand the knowledge of its distribution in northern South America.
["Cave-dwelling"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Mountainous millipedes in Vietnam. III. Two new dragon millipedes from limestone mountains in northern Vietnam (Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae, Hylomus), with an identification key to Vietnamese Hylomus species
Two new species of the dragon millipede genus Hylomus Cook & Loomis, 1924 are described from mountainous areas in northern Vietnam, namely Hylomus piccolo sp. nov. and Hylomus borealis sp. nov. The COI barcodes are provided for these species, and an identification key is presented to all Vietnamese Hylomus species.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Revision of the millipede family Dalodesmidae in Madagascar, with descriptions of two new Malagasy species of Dalodesmus Cook, 1896 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida)
The family Dalodesmidae Cook, 1896 in the fauna of Madagascar is reviewed and shown to presently encompass eight species in three genera: Dalodesmus Cook, 1896 (six species), Eutubercularium Brölemann, 1916 (one species), and Phymatodesmus de Saussure & Zehntner, 1897 (one species). These genera are diagnosed, and their respective species keyed, all being endemic to Madagascar proper and/or the immediately adjacent islets of Nosy Be and/or Nosy Sakatia. Dalodesmus currently contains six species, including two new, all supplied either with brief descriptive notes and available iconography or extensive descriptions and new illustrations, as follows: D. hamatus (Brandt, 1841), from an unspecified locality in Madagascar, now redescribed from a male specimen from Makira, northeastern Madagascar; D. odontopezus (Attems, 1898), from Nosy Be Isle; D. orator Hoffman, 1974, from Ambohimitombo, central Madagascar; D. tectus Cook, 1896 (= D. hova (de Saussure & Zehntner, 1897), syn. nov.), originally described from an unspecified locality in central Madagascar, with a male type and additional males identified as D. hova recorded from the Andasibe National Park (= Périnet) in east-central Madagascar. Additionally, two new species are described, D. speophilus sp. nov., from Grotte de Anjohibe, northwestern Madagascar, and D. kompantsevi sp. nov., from Montagne d’Ambre, northern Madagascar. Both the type species of Dalodesmus and its synonym Tubercularium Attems, 1898, D. tectus and D. odontopezus, respectively, are partly revised and illustrated based on holotypes, while D. hamatus is duly described and illustrated based on the first discovery of a male. Both Eutubercularium and Phymatodesmus are still monospecific, comprising only E. voeltzkowi (Mesibov, Wesener & Hollier, 2018), from Nosy Be Isle, and P. sakalava (de Saussure & Zehntner, 1901), from Andasibe, respectively. The latter species is fully redescribed and illustrated for the first time from male material.
["Endemism"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Yunnan Nangunhe National Nature Reserve, China
A new forest-dwelling species of the Cyrtodactylus chauquangensis group is described from southwestern Yunnan Province, China. Phylogenetically, it was recovered as the sister species of C. zhenkangensis, with a genetic distance of 9.2% in the ND2 gene. Morphologically, the new species can be separated from C. zhenkangensis by the discontinuity of enlarged femoral scales and enlarged precloacal scales, the absence of femoral pores, and the difference in dorsal color pattern. In addition, although the new species and C. zhenkangensis are distributed relatively close, their habitats are clearly different. Cyrtodactylus zhenkangensis inhabits karst limestone, while the new species inhabits forest. The new species is the 29th species of the C. chauquangensis group and the third forest-dwelling species of this group.
["Bent-toed gecko"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Two new species of the genus Sinonychus (Coleoptera, Elmidae) from Guizhou, China
The riffle beetle genus Sinonychus Jäch & Boukal, 1995 (Elminae, Macronychini) includes only three species from East Asia. In this paper, two new species, S. lipinae sp. nov. and S. luodianensis sp. nov., are described from Guizhou Province, China. Illustrations of the new species and a key to all five Sinonychus species are also provided.

A never-ending story: updated 3D cyber-taxonomic revision of the ant genus Zasphinctus Wheeler (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Dorylinae) for the Afrotropical region
The ant genus Zasphinctus are fascinating ants due to their distinctive morphology, ecology, and rarity. In this study, a comprehensive revision of Zasphinctus in the Afrotropical region is presented, through a combination of morphological examination under the light microscope and three-dimensional (3D) cyber-taxonomy based on microtomography (micro-CT). Micro-CT based 3D surface models of all species were used for virtual morphological visualisation and examination. The 3D models were virtually visualised, rotated, scaled, and dissected in order to obtain the best shape data for whole specimens or individual body parts. This approach offered a greatly improved character evaluation, allowing the development of an updated taxonomic species delimitation system for the genus. Our revision recognises eight worker-based species, of which three were previously known and five are newly described in this study. Furthermore, based on distinctive morphological differences, two species groups are also proposed. The Z. obamai group includes the species Z. obamai Hita Garcia, 2017 (Kenya), Z. lumumbai Hita Garcia & Gómez, sp. nov. (Democratic Republic of Congo), and Z. wilsoni Hita Garcia, 2017 (Mozambique) while the Z. sarowiwai group contains Z. aprilia Hita Garcia & Gómez, sp. nov. (Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda), Z. kouakoui Hita Garcia & Gómez, sp. nov. (Ivory Coast), Z. lolae Hita Garcia & Gómez sp. nov. (Ghana), Z. ndouri Hita Garcia & Gómez, sp. nov. (Senegal), and Z. sarowiwai Hita Garcia, 2017 (Cameroon). All species are easily distinguishable through a comprehensive character matrix illustrated by numerous diagnostic illustrations, as well as a traditional dichotomous identification key.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Revision of the orb-weaving spider genus Yaginumia Archer, 1960 (Araneae, Araneidae) from China
The orb-weaver spider genus Yaginumia Archer, 1960 from China is revised, and three species, including two new species, are recognized: Y. medog Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Xizang and Y. qiong Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Hainan; the type species, Y. sia (Strand, 1906) (♂♀), is redescribed based on specimens from Guizhou and Hubei. A distributional map of the studied specimens is also provided.

Descriptions of four species of Polyxenida Verhoeff, 1934 (Diplopoda, Penicillata) from China, including one new species and one new record
This study describes a new species of Polyxenida from China, Lophoturus sineprocessus sp. nov., along with a species newly recorded from China: Eudigraphis nigricans (Miyosi, 1947), and provides additional descriptions of Eudigraphis sinensis Ishii & Liang, 1990 and Polyxenus hangzhoensis Ishii & Liang, 1990. The study conducted mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequencing for all four species and constructed a phylogenetic tree based on the molecular data. The comprehensive morphological descriptions and molecular analyses confirm the addition of one new species and one newly recorded species for the Polyxenida fauna of China, elevating the total number of known Polyxenida species in the country from 10 to 12. The study also includes an identification key for Polyxenida species in China.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Revision of the Oriental and Australasian diving beetle genus Sandracottus Sharp, 1882 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Dytiscinae)
A comprehensive revision is presented of the Oriental and Australasian diving beetle genus Sandracottus Sharp, 1882 (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae: Dytiscinae: Aciliini) and seven junior subjective synonyms are proposed. Sandracottus guerini Balfour-Browne, 1939, syn. nov. is a junior subjective synonym of S. femoralis Heller, 1934; S. manipurensis Vazirani, 1969, syn. nov. of S. hunteri (Crotch, 1872); S. mixtus Blanchard, 1843, syn. nov. of S. chevrolati (Aubé, 1838); and S. angulifer Heller, 1934, syn. nov., S. nauticus Sharp, 1882, syn. nov., and S. palawanensis Satô, 1978, syn. nov. of S. maculatus (Wehncke, 1876). Finally, S. vijayakumari Anand et al., 2021, syn. nov. is a new synonym of S. dejeanii (Aubé, 1838). New status is assigned to S. bakewellii guttatus (Sharp, 1882), stat. nov. as well as S. hunteri (Crotch, 1872), stat. rev. Lectotypes are designated for the following taxa: Dytiscus flavocinctus Guérin-Méneville, 1830, Hydaticus chevrolati Aubé, 1838, Hydaticus insignis Wehncke, 1876, Sandracottus baeri Régimbart, 1899, Sandracottus bizonatus Régimbart, 1899, and Sandracottus ornatus Sharp, 1882. A neotype is designated for Hydaticus maculatus Wehncke, 1876. In total, three Oriental species, two of which also occur in the East Palaearctic, six Southeast Asian species, one species from New Guinea and the Moluccas, and one from Australia with an endemic subspecies in Central Australia (S. bakewellii guttatus) are recognised. Each taxon is presented with a diagnosis, habitat preferences, conservation assessments, distribution data, and a comprehensive bibliography. Important characters (habitus, dorsal colouration, median lobes and parameres) are illustrated. All currently valid taxa are redescribed. Sandracottus jaechi Wewalka & Vazirani, 1975 from Sri Lanka, S. bizonatus from Borneo, S. insignis from the Philippines and S. rotundus Sharp, 1882 from Sulawesi are recommended to be listed in the next IUCN red data book. A key to all species is provided.
["Australasia"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A faunal inventory of methane seeps on the Pacific margin of Costa Rica
The methane seeps on the Pacific margin of Costa Rica support extensive animal diversity and offer insights into deep-sea biogeography. During five expeditions between 2009 and 2019, we conducted intensive faunal sampling via 63 submersible dives to 11 localities at depths of 300–3600 m. Based on these expeditions and published literature, we compiled voucher specimens, images, and 274 newly published DNA sequences to present a taxonomic inventory of macrofaunal and megafaunal diversity with a focus on invertebrates. In total 488 morphospecies were identified, representing the highest number of distinct morphospecies published from a single seep or vent region to date. Of these, 131 are described species, at least 58 are undescribed species, and the remainder include some degree of taxonomic uncertainty, likely representing additional undescribed species. Of the described species, 38 are known only from the Costa Rica seeps and their vicinity. Fifteen range extensions are also reported for species known from Mexico, the Galápagos seamounts, Chile, and the western Pacific; as well as 16 new depth records and three new seep records for species known to occur at vents or organic falls. No single evolutionary narrative explains the patterns of biodiversity at these seeps, as even morphologically indistinguishable species can show different biogeographic affinities, biogeographic ranges, or depth ranges. The value of careful molecular taxonomy and comprehensive specimen-based regional inventories is emphasized for biodiversity research and monitoring.
["Methane Hydrates and Related Phenomena", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Taxonomic and molecular characterization of Pseudosteringophorus profundis sp. nov. (Digenea, Fellodistomidae), a parasite of Macrourus holotrachys Günther, 1878 (Gadiformes, Macrouridae) from the deep sea southeastern Pacific Ocean
Pseudosteringophorus profundis sp. nov. a new species of deep-sea digenean, parasitizing the gallbladder of the “Bigeye grenadier” (Macrourus holotrachys Günther, 1878) in the deep waters of the southeastern Pacific Ocean is described on the basis of morphological and molecular (28S rRNA) data. The new species is distinguishable from Pseudosteringophorus hoplognathi Yamaguti, 1940, the only other member of the genus, by its subterminal oral sucker, the position of the ovary and testes, the larger anterior seminal vesicle compared to the posterior one, and its larger eggs. In addition, the new species is a parasite of a deep-sea fish, whereas P. hoplognathi is a parasite of shallow-water fish. A phylogenetic tree, based on 28S rDNA sequences, indicates that this species is included in a clade of deep-sea fellodistomid species (Steringophorus spp.). We provide the first molecular data on the genus Pseudosteringophorus Yamaguti, 1940 and expand the molecular database for the family Fellodistomidae. Further studies, including sequences from other fellodistomid taxa, are needed to more precisely infer relationships within this family.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasitic infections in humans and animals", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) as a tool to uncover neglected marine biodiversity: two new Solenogastres (Mollusca, Aplacophora) from the Gulf of Mexico
Solenogastres is a group of mollusks with evolutionary and ecological importance. Nevertheless, their diversity is underestimated and knowledge about the distribution of the approximately 300 formally described species is limited. Factors that contribute to this include their small size and frequent misidentification by non-specialists. Recent deep-sea explorations have resulted in the collection of numerous specimens through effective methods such as epibenthic sledges. However, this is a costly, labor-intensive, and destructive methodology. In contrast, Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) offer a novel, non-destructive approach, by providing a substrate for benthic organism colonization. This study is the first to describe Solenogastres collected using ARMS, demonstrating that they are an effective tool for biodiversity assessment and characterizing rare marine invertebrates. Following an integrative taxonomic approach, two new solenogaster species are described: Dondersia tweedtae Farris, Olson & Kocot, sp. nov. (Dondersiidae) and Eleutheromenia bullescens Cobo, sp. nov. (Pruvotinidae). The diagnosis of the family Dondersiidae is amended and the necessity of reassessing the validity of the current diagnostic characters for Pruvotinidae, and its classification is emphasized. The two newly described species exhibit distinct external characteristics; D. tweedtae sp. nov. has a striking pink color with a bright yellow dorsal keel and E. bullescens sp. nov. has a unique, discontinuous dorsal keel with nearly spherical protrusions. The presence of cnidocytes in the digestive systems of both species indicate that they feed on cnidarians. It is hypothesized that, like in some nudibranchs, their coloration and body features reflect defensive adaptations related to their diet. This study shows that while habitus alone is typically insufficient for accurate identification in solenogasters, it can sometimes simplify the process. For this, live observations and photographs are essential.
["Aculifera"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Diversity of ectoparasitic bat flies (Diptera, Hippoboscoidea) in inter-Andean valleys: evaluating interactions in the largest inter-Andean basin of Colombia
Flies belonging to the families Streblidae and Nycteribiidae are highly specialized arthropods that feed on the blood of bats. Their morphology varies and has adapted throughout their coevolutionary history with hosts. Bat flies are often associated with specific bat species and can establish distinct infracommunities. Interaction networks have been used to better understand these associations, revealing interaction modules between bats and their parasites. The Magdalena River basin is the largest in Colombia, encompassing a wide variety of climatic and ecological conditions, with up to 98 bat species reported. We conducted field trips to capture bats and bat flies in different locations along the basin and reviewed literature records and biological collections to gather additional data on interactions between bats and bat flies in this region. We found a high diversity of bats and bat flies in the Magdalena River basin, revealing a medium specialization and modularity in these interactions. We identified bat fly infracommunities and negative associations between certain bat fly species, suggesting competition for resources within hosts. The specialization is similar to that reported in degraded and fragmented habitats where the availability of shelters decreases, favoring the overcrowding of bats, forming multi-species colonies. In conclusion, our study provides important information on the interactions between bats and bat flies in the Magdalena River basin, expanding knowledge about the diversity and structure of these communities in inter-Andean landscapes.
["Chiroptera"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

First formal record of the feeding habits of Saileriolidae (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomomorpha, Pentatomoidea), with redescription of Bannacoris hyalinus (Schaefer & Ashlock, 1970), comb. nov. endemic to Vietnam
In the present study, the rare true bug Bannacoris hyalinus (Schaefer & Ashlock, 1970), comb. nov. (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomomorpha, Pentatomoidea, Saileriolidae), which is endemic to Vietnam, is redescribed and transferred from the genus Saileriola China & Slater, 1956 to the genus Bannacoris Hsiao, 1964 based on morphological characteristics. Adults and nymphs of this species congregate in groups of several individuals and suck sap from the abaxial side of the leaves of Litsea sp. (Lauraceae). They cause visible feeding damage on the adaxial side of Litsea leaves, similar to that caused by members of the heteropteran family Tingidae Laporte, 1832 (Cimicomorpha, Miroidea). The new knowledge of B. hyalinus comb. nov. also represents the first formal record of the feeding habits of Saileriolidae China & Slater, 1956. An identification key to all four species of this family is provided.
["Host plant"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Parazoanthidae (Cnidaria, Zoantharia) associated with glass sponges on the Nishi-Shichito Ridge, northwestern Pacific Ocean, with the description of a new species
Seamounts are biodiversity hotspots that face increasing threats from anthropogenic activities. Seamounts host diverse sessile suspension-feeding organisms such as sponges and anthozoans, which are crucial for seamount ecosystems as they construct three-dimensional habitats utilized by numerous other animals. Therefore, accurate identification of seamount fauna, in particular of sessile suspension-feeding organisms, is of paramount importance for robust conservation efforts. This study focused on Zoantharia, a sessile anthozoan group, and specifically the family Parazoanthidae, known for associations with many different host taxa, prominently including octocorals and sponges. We collected Parazoanthidae specimens from northwestern Pacific seamounts and formally describe a new species, Vitrumanthus flosculus Kise & Reimer, sp. nov., based on morphological and molecular analyses. We also report the complete mitochondrial genomes of this new species and the related species Churabana kuroshioae. Our results reconfirm the phylogenetic positions of these two species within Parazoanthidae, while demonstrating much remains to be learned about the benthic diversity of northwestern Pacific seamounts.
["Baseline data"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Integrative review of Xylomoia strix, X. retinax and X. stangelmaieri (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Xyleninae, Apameini)
The relationship of Xylomoia strix Mikkola, 1980; Xylomoia retinax Mikkola, 1998; and Xylomoia stangelmaieri Mikkola, 1998 is reconsidered based on 59 genitalia slides (37 males and 22 females) and 40 barcodes of adults collected from the type localities and areas in-between. Due to lack of stable morphologic differences, apart from the wing coloration of X. retinax, and low genetic distance between the three, they are considered as three subspecies of X. strix: the nominotypical one X. strix stangelmaieri stat. nov. and X. strix retinax stat. nov. Included are photographs of all specimens covering 37 adults, and 28 male and 18 female genitalia, as well as a phylogenetic tree and a map showing collecting localities.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

A new genus, Sinodromus gen. nov., with two new species and the first description of the female of Philodromus guiyang Long & Yu, 2022 (Arachnida, Araneae, Philodromidae) from China
Three species of the spider family Philodromidae are reported from the south of China. A new genus, Sinodromus gen. nov., is described from Jiangxi, Fujian, and Hunan Provinces. It can be distinguished from other genera of Philodromidae by the tegular apophysis of the palp and the cymbial process, as well as by its uniquely striped abdomen. The type species, S. fujianensis sp. nov., and a second species, S. perbrevis sp. nov., are described and illustrated; these species occur in bamboo forests in hilly areas. Additionally, the female of Philodromus guiyang Long & Yu, 2022 is described for the first time from Jiangxi and Hunan Provinces. All species are illustrated with SEM micrographs, and their distributions are mapped.

First record of the family Calliopiidae (Crustacea, Malacostraca, Amphipoda) from Korean waters, with description of new species Calliopius ulleungensis sp. nov.
A new species of the family Calliopiidae was collected from the East Sea of Korea. Calliopius ulleungensis sp. nov. is similar to C. columbianus Bousfield & Hendrycks, 1997 in having numerous calceoli on the posteromedial margins of antennae and a weakly carinate body. However, the new species can be distinguished from C. columbianus by the shorter process on peduncular article 3 of antenna 1, subrectangular eyes, and fewer articles in the antenna flagellum. This species, along with C. ezoensis Shimoji et al. 2020, occurs in the Western Pacific. The females of the two species are morphologically very similar, but the males of C. ezoensis are easily distinguishable, as the gnathopod 1 is larger than gnathopod 2. The new species is fully illustrated and extensively compared with related species. In this paper, both Calliopius and Calliopiidae are reported from Korea for the first time. A key to species of Calliopius is also provided.
["Amphipod"]
["Marine and Coastal Research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Taxonomic notes of jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae) from Guangxi, Hainan, Sichuan, Xizang and Yunnan, China
Twenty-one new species of jumping spiders from five provinces of South China are described: Cheliceroides jinxini sp. nov. (♂), Dendroicius qiong sp. nov. (♂♀), Icius deergong sp. nov. (♂♀), Irura qiuhangi sp. nov. (♂♀), I. yarlungzangbo sp. nov. (♂♀), Mintonia shiwandashan sp. nov. (♂), Myrmarachne kuan sp. nov. (♂♀), Nandicius xiefengi sp. nov. (♂♀), Pancorius medog sp. nov. (♀), P. yingjiang sp. nov. (♂♀), Piranthus maddisoni sp. nov. (♂♀), Simaetha hainan sp. nov. (♂♀), Stertinius lhoba sp. nov. (♂♀), Synagelides kongmingi sp. nov. (♂♀), S. xuandei sp. nov. (♂♀), S. yunchangi sp. nov. (♂♀), S. yidei sp. nov. (♂), S. zilongi sp. nov. (♂♀), Yaginumaella daweishan sp. nov. (♂♀), Y. moinba sp. nov. (♂♀), and Y. pingbian sp. nov. (♂♀). Nepalicius Prószyński, 2016, syn. nov. is proposed as a junior synonym of Okinawicius Prószyński, 2016. Three new combinations are proposed: O. nepalicus (Andreeva, Hęciak & Prószyński, 1984), comb. nov. and O. seychellensis (Wanless, 1984), comb. nov. transferred from Nepalicius, and O. daoxianensis (Peng, Gong & Kim, 2000), comb. nov. transferred from Philaeus Thorell, 1869. The unknown females of O. nepalicus, Padillothorax exilis (Cao & Li, 2016) and Siler hanoicus Prószyński, 1985 are described for the first time. Distribution maps of the studied specimens are also provided.

A new species of Laena Dejean (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) from Sichuan Province, China, with an updated key
In this study, we describe and illustrate a new species of the genus Laena Dejean, 1821, Laena costata sp. nov., which was collected in Micangshan Nature Reserve of Sichuan Province, China. Additionally, the COI mitochondrial gene was sequenced to provide additional evidence for this new species’ validity. The results of phylogenetic analyses suggest that this new species is sister to L. maowenica Schawaller, 2008. Furthermore, an updated key to Laena species from Sichuan Province is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Six new species of micropterous Paederus (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from China
Six new species of the genus Paederus Fabricius, 1775 from China are described: P. chentangus sp. nov. (Xizang: Chentang), P. mirus sp. nov. (Xizang: Xiayadong), P. songi sp. nov. (Chongqing: Polaoxiang), P. trispinosus sp. nov. (Hubei: Houhe), P. (Harpopaederus) yei sp. nov. (Hubei: Cuijia’ao), and P. zhaoi sp. nov. (Zhejiang: Majian). A key to the micropterous Paederus species of mainland China is given.
["Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Polyclads (Platyhelminthes) in the southern Gulf of Mexico: unveiling biodiversity and descriptions of two new species
The order Polycladida (Platyhelminthes) in Mexico has historically received limited attention from researchers, primarily due to challenges associated with its low detectability and the scarcity of specialists. This study addresses part of the gap by conducting a comprehensive assessment of polyclad diversity in the southern Gulf of Mexico. Our investigation revealed a total of 27 distinct species, belonging to 17 genera and 12 families, within the suborders Cotylea and Acotylea. Our findings include the identification of 17 species previously undocumented in the Gulf of Mexico. This represents a significant expansion of the region’s known polyclad biodiversity. By revising the polyclad records in the Gulf of Mexico, the known species count has increased from 31 to 50. Furthermore, our research unveiled the presence of two new species, Stylochoplana sisalensis sp. nov. and Emprosthopharynx hartei sp. nov., also marking the first time a species of the genus Emprosthopharynx has been reported for the Atlantic coast of the Americas.
["Campeche"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

State of knowledge of the ladybird beetle (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) fauna of Armenia and other Transcaucasian countries, including two new country records
Beetles (Coleoptera) have been surveyed in Armenia and other Transcaucasian countries since the first half of the 19th century. Based on the literature reports and our new data, available information was gathered on the occurrence in Armenia of one of the beetle families, the ladybirds (Coccinellidae). 84 species of Coccinellidae have been reported from this country in the literature and/or collected during our recent field survey. Two of them, Anatis ocellata (Linnaeus, 1758) and Tytthaspis sedecimpunctata (Linnaeus, 1761), have not been reported in the literature but were present in our field samples, so they can be considered species new to Armenia, and signify new country records. In addition to the 84 species unambiguously reported from Armenia, 14 were broadly reported from larger regions that include that country (Transcaucasia, the Caucasus) or its parts (the Araks valley). The recognized Coccinellidae fauna of Armenia is slightly poorer than the faunas of other Transcaucasian countries (Azerbaijan and Georgia): there are 92 species currently known to occur in Azerbaijan and 90 species in Georgia. Interestingly, the Armenian fauna contains more Caucasian endemics (10 species) and fewer non-natives (1 species) than the faunas of Azerbaijan (4 endemics and 2 non-natives) and Georgia (6 endemics and 6 non-natives).
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Annotated checklist of Sarcophagidae (Diptera) of Jamaica, with new records
An annotated checklist of the Sarcophagidae of Jamaica is presented based on material collected from 2018 to 2024, supplemented with specimens in museum collections as well as literature records. The checklist comprises 45 species from 21 genera, of which 23 species from 15 genera were collected during the present study and identified based on male terminalia. The following species are recorded from Jamaica for the first time: Bahamiola orbitalis Dodge, Peckia (Sarcodexia) dominicana (Lopes), Tapacura mariarum Tibana & Lopes, and Lepidodexia (Harpagopyga) diversipes (Coquillet).
["Caribbean"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Moth flies (Diptera, Psychodidae) of Estonia
A fundamental prerequisite for understanding and protecting biodiversity is the construction of a high-quality faunal database. The primary objective of this study was to address knowledge gaps in the biodiversity of the family Psychodidae in Estonia. Faunistic data on 45 species of moth flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) from Estonia are presented, including 30 new country-records. Sixteen species are considered important for nature conservation. An updated checklist of the family, comprising 71 species, is provided for the Baltic countries. Habitus photographs of selected Estonian species are also included.
["Baltic countries"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Description of the larva of Platycnemis phasmovolans Hämäläinen, 2003 (Odonata, Platycnemididae), with a key to the larvae of the subfamily Platycnemidinae from the Sino-Japanese and Oriental regions
The final instar larva of the rare species Platycnemis phasmovolans Hämäläinen, 2003 is described and illustrated here for the first time, including a new distribution record from Vietnam. The larva of P. phasmovolans differs from that of congeneric species by distinct morphological features, including the presence of four setae on the palpal lobe of the labium, the presence of lateral spines on abdominal S5–9, and a long terminal filament on the caudal lamella. We also provide a key to species for the known larvae of the subfamily Platycnemidinae in the Sino-Japanese and Oriental regions.
["Biological notes"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Complete mitochondrial genome of Lepidocephalichthys berdmorei and its phylogenetic status within the family Cobitidae (Cypriniformes)
In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome of Lepidocephalichthys berdmorei was first determined by the primer walking sequence method. The complete mitochondrial genome was 16,574 bp in length, including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and a control region (D-loop). The gene arrangement pattern was identical to that of other teleosts. The overall base composition was 29.9% A, 28.5% T, 25.5% C, and 16.1% G, with an A+T bias of 58.4%. Furthermore, phylogenetic analyses were conducted based on 13 PCGs from the mitochondrial genomes of 18 cobitid species using with three different methods (Neighbor-joining, Maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference). All methods consistently showed that the four species of the genus Lepidocephalichthys form a monophyletic group. This study would provide effective molecular information for the Lepidocephalichthys species as well as novel genetic marker for the study of species identification.
["Gene arrangement pattern"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

A new species of the jawfish genus Opistognathus from Taiwan, northwestern Pacific Ocean (Perciformes, Opistognathidae)
A new species of jawfish genus Opistognathus is described based on a specimen collected from a beach in the Peng-hu Islands during a cold snap. The new species, Opistognathus cryos sp. nov., differs from its congeners in having a rigid upper jaw, 10–11 + 1 + 19–22 = 31–33 gill rakers, 55 scale rows in lateral series, 10 + 16 = 26 vertebrae, the terminus of the lateral line at the base of the fourth segmented dorsal-fin ray (15th in total rays), the head, nape, dorsal-fin base above lateral line, throat, chest, and pectoral-fin base naked, dorsal fin with eight blotches along its entire base, body with five horizontal dark stripes, nape with two dark blotches in front of the dorsal-fin origin, and a caudal fin with five narrow, dark bands. A detailed description is provided and compared to its similar congeners.
["Actinopterygii"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Polymixia melanostoma, a new beardfish from the western Pacific (Teleostei, Polymixiiformes, Polymixiidae)
A new species of beardfish, genus Polymixia, is described based on three specimens collected in Taiwanese waters and off the Chesterfield Islands of New Caledonia. It can be distinguished from its congeners by the following characters: dorsal-fin rays IV–V, 35–37; gill rakers on outer face of first gill arch 3+1+6=10; scales row between dorsal-fin origin and lateral line vertically 6–8 (S1) and posteriorly 12–14 (S2); pyloric caeca 40; snout rounded, with its surface rough and gelatinous, its tip evidently protrude anterior margin of premaxilla; ctenii on body scales arranged in a wedge-shape, forming three rows; 4th anal-fin spine long, 1.0%–1.2% eye diameter; longer dorsal-fin, 49.6–53.0% SL; blackish oral-branchial cavity. Our maximum-likelihood tree based on mitochondrial COI sequences revealed that the new species is distinct from six congeneric species. Our findings indicate the presence of at least six Polymixia species in Taiwan, highlighting Taiwan and adjacent areas as a region with the highest diversity of this genus.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Redescription of Malacosarcus macrostoma (Günther, 1878) from the abyssal zone off Taiwan, northwestern Pacific Ocean (Beryciformes, Stephanoberycoidei, Stephanoberycidae)
The large-mouth pricklefish, Malacosarcus macrostoma (Günther, 1878), previously known from five specimens collected from the central Pacific Ocean, is redescribed based on three specimens collected from the abyssal zone (4,412–4,813 m) off the southeastern coast of Taiwan. These specimens contribute to a more comprehensive description of M. macrostoma and represent this species’ westernmost and deepest record. This study provides a detailed description, fresh photographs, and notes on their morphological characteristics of the specimens. Lastly, the distributional records of M. macrostoma are discussed.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Verification of two barracudina species Lestrolepis japonica (Tanaka, 1908) and L. philippina (Fowler, 1934) (Aulopiformes, Paralepididae)
Examination of the type series of Lestidium japonica Tanaka reveals that the generally accepted concept of this species does not accord with the type series. A historical review of the literature showed that the characterization of L. japonica changed over time, and what has been recognized as “L. japonica” for more than 70 years actually represents a distinct and different species. Among the junior synonyms of “L. japonica”, Paralepis philippinus Fowler, 1934 is resurrected as a valid species herein in a new combination, Lestrolepis philippina. Lestrolepis nigroventralis Ho, Tsai & Li is recognized as a junior synonym of L. japonica herein. Revised diagnostic characteristics for both L. japonica and L. philippina are provided, along with comments on related names to verify their nomenclatural status.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Descriptions of two new dark-body snake eels of the genus Ophichthus (Anguilliformes, Ophichthidae) from Taiwan
Two new species of dark-body snake eels are described based on specimens collected from Taiwan. Ophichthus kbalanensis sp. nov. has a long tail; dorsal-fin origin above posterior third of pectoral fin; tip of lower jaw anterior to anterior-nostril tube; two simple, pointed protrusions along upper lip; preoperculomandibular pores 6 or 7 + 3; teeth on jaws and vomer mostly uniserial, except for biserial on posterior portion of maxilla and anterior portion of symphysis of dentary; vertebral formula 12-55-153 and median fins with narrow dark margins, except the pale fin origins. Ophichthus multidentis sp. nov. has a dorsal-fin origin well behind gill opening; mainly 4 rows of teeth on jaws; no protrusions along upper lip; a smaller head; mean vertebral formula 24-64-163 and pale median fins. Based on some recent papers and our result, a revised key to species is herein provided.

Species of the snake eel genus Yirrkala Whitley, 1940 from Taiwan, with descriptions of a new species and two new records (Anguilliformes, Ophichthidae)
The slender snake eel genus Yirrkala from Taiwan is reviewed, and a total of four species are recognized, including a new species described here. Yirrkala nkust sp. nov. is described based on four specimens collected from western Taiwan. It can be distinguished from congeners by the dorsal-fin origin situated above the gill opening, the tip of lower jaw not reaching the base of the anterior-nostril tube, 1 + 3 supraorbital pores, 7–8 predorsal vertebrae, and 147–152 total vertebrae. Two rare species, Yirrkala kaupii Bleeker, 1858 and Yirrkala omanensis Norman, 1939, are redescribed based on specimens newly collected from Taiwan. A key to all Yirrkala species found in Taiwan is provided.

A new species of Phyllophichthus Gosline, 1951 (Actinopterygii, Ophichthidae) from Taiwan
A unique species of the flappy-snake eel genus, Phyllophichthus diandrus sp. nov., is described based on a single specimen (270 mm in total length) collected from Dong-gang, southwestern Taiwan. The new species possesses several characters that are distinct from the only other species in the genus, Phyllophichthus xenodontus. Phyllophichthus diandrus sp. nov. can be easily distinguished from P. xenodontus by having two papillae inside of nasal tube (vs three in P. xenodontus), 25 branchiostegal rays (vs 29), the dorsal-fin origin positioned behind the tip of the pectoral fin (vs not behind, usually above mid-pectoral fin), and the absence of the maxillary teeth (vs present). The relationship between Phyllophichthus and Leiuranus is discussed based on generic and morphological features.
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Description of a new uniformly brown estuarine moray eel (Anguilliformes, Muraenidae) from the Central Indo-Pacific Ocean
A new estuarine moray eel, Uropterygius hades sp. nov., is described based on 14 specimens from Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, southern Indonesia, and Fiji. It is a small-bodied, slender, uniformly dark-brown moray separated from congeners within the U. concolor species complex. The new species can be distinguished from congeners by the anteriorly positioned small eyes (5.0–7.2% of head length), absence of branchial pores, and extended inner rows of teeth which reach the posterior end of the jaws. Uropterygius hades sp. nov. represents a rare species of moray eel that inhabits turbid estuarine environments, preferring soft, muddy substrates, and burrowing and hiding among rocks or in fallen mangrove leaves. Additionally, Uropterygius mactanensis Huang, Balisco, Evacitas & Liao, another species recently separated from the U. concolor species complex, is reported for the first time from Iriomote Island in the Ryukyu Archipelago based on two specimens; this new record expands the geographic range of U. mactanensis from the central Philippines to southern Japan.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Species diversity of freshwater glass eel (Anguilliformes, Anguillidae) of Yilan, Taiwan, with remark on two new records
Yilan, Taiwan is the first place in East Asia where freshwater glass eels, the juvenile stage of Anguilla species, arrive by ocean currents. We collected glass eels by fyke net in Lanyang River estuary twice a month from July 2010 to November 2023. By morphological examination and sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, we identified seven species of Anguilla. Most of the glass eels captured in Yilan belonged to the species A. japonica, A. marmorata, and A. bicolor pacifica. Only a few were A. luzonensis, and two A. celebesensis were recorded. In addition, two species were recorded for the time time from Taiwan; A. interioris and A. borneensis were confirmed by cytochrome b sequencing. Thus, we increase the number of Anguilla species in Taiwan from five to seven.
["Anguilla borneensis"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Four new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from China
Four new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007, Trilacuna guangwu Ma & Tong, sp. nov. (♂), Trilacuna qingliangfeng Ma & Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀), Trilacuna taoyuanyu Ma & Tong, sp. nov. (♂) and Trilacuna yunmeng Ma & Tong, sp. nov. (♂), are described from China. Descriptions, diagnoses, and photographs are provided.

Sipadantonius roihani gen. et sp. nov., a new genus and species of Pseudocyclopidae Giesbrecht, 1893 (Copepoda, Calanoida) from the marine cave “Turtle Tomb” of Sipadan Island, Sabah, Malaysia
A new genus and species of the family Pseudocyclopidae, Sipadantonius roihani gen. et sp. nov., was described based on specimens collected using a light trap in the marine cave of Sipadan Island, Sabah, Malaysia. The new genus is most related to Pinkertonius, primarily based on the similarity observed in the armament of ancestral segment IV of the male antennules, the armament of the female P5 Exp-3, the segmentation of the male P5, the armament of the maxillular basal exite, and the relative length of the ancestral segment XXVII of the antennules. Nevertheless, it distinguishes itself from Pinkertonius and all other genera of the family by the absence of the lateral seta of the basis of all swimming legs, the presence of an inner seta on the coxa of the female P5, the reduction of furcal setae I and III, as well as the specific armament of the ancestral segment XX of the antennules and the maxillular coxal endite. The female of Sipadantonius roihani gen. et sp. nov. has aesthetascs on the ancestral segments IV and XX of the antennules, as well as six setae on the maxillular coxal endite, exhibiting the most plesiomorphic characteristics of the family Pseudocyclopidae. The latter characteristic has not been recorded in the order Calanoida. It was hypothesised that the new species was a particle feeder living in the pelagic zone of the marine cave. The existence of the new species supported the assumption that the regional distribution of the family Pseudocyclopidae exhibited the Tethyan track, which might have been the subsequent result of the colonisation of the habitats prior to the closure of the Tethys Sea.
["Crustacea"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Allopachria nigrocatta sp. nov. from Guangxi, with a key and checklist of Chinese species and additional records of Allopachria Zimmermann, 1924 from China (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Hyphydrini)
A new species Allopachria nigrocatta sp. nov. from Guangxi, China is described. New records are provided for the following Allopachria species: A. dudgeoni Wewalka, 2000 and A. weinbergeri Wewalka, 2000 from Zhejiang, and A. yiae Bian, Guo & Ji, 2013 from Guizhou. Additional records are also given for some other Chinese species. The habitus and male genitalia of the new species are illustrated. An updated key and a checklist of all Chinese species of Allopachria are provided.
["Allopachria"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Redescription of Parascorpaena moultoni (Whitley, 1961) (Actinopterygii, Scorpaenidae), with new distribution records for the species
Although the status of Parascorpaena moultoni (Whitley, 1961) is now well established, the morphology of the species has been re-examined, with new diagnostic features identified. Typically 15 or 16 pectoral-fin rays are present, together with two suborbital ridges, each with a single spine and the origin of the first ridge posterior to the second, well-developed interorbital ridges forming a loop, an undeveloped occipital pit, no scales on the dorsal- and anal-fin soft ray bases. The known range of the species includes Taiwan, the Philippines, Micronesia, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Fiji in addition to previously reported Australia, New Caledonia, and Japan.

The first report of two new janiroid isopod species (Asellota, Janiroidea) from the western Indian Ocean
Two new janiroid isopod species, Heterosignum behbehanii sp. nov. and Uromunna alyamanii sp. nov., are described from the Kuwaiti waters, representing the first record of the genera in the western Indian Ocean. Heterosignum behbehanii sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by pereonites 2–7 with a pair of short single lateral spine-like processes; the relatively short length of the anterior part of its pleotelson, which accounts for about 0.1 of the total length of the pleotelson; and the stylet with an elongate, downwardly curved, and distally pointed apex. Uromunna alyamanii sp. nov. is equally unique, with the pleotelson bearing two denticles on each lateral margin, pleopod 2 endopod stylet extending beyond the apex of the protopod, and pleopod 4 exopod distal tip with a long plumose seta. This discovery of unique characteristics of the new species significantly enhances our understanding of marine biodiversity in the western Indian Ocean and underscores the importance of further research in this area. The identification keys are provided to all known species of Heterosignum and Indian Ocean Uromunna species.
["Heterosignum"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Description of a new Osedax (Annelida, Polychaeta, Siboglinidae) species colonizing cow bones in the South Atlantic Ocean
A new species of Osedax is described here using molecular and morphological data. It was found at the depth of 550 m off the Brazilian coast through experimental deployment of cow bones. Osedax nataliae sp. nov. is the second Osedax species from the Southwest Atlantic Ocean and had been previously reported as Osedax ‘BioSuOr-4’. Phylogenetic analysis of five concatenated genetic makers (28S rDNA, Histone H3, 18S rDNA, 16S rDNA, and cytochrome c oxidase I) placed Osedax nataliae sp. nov. within a well-supported Osedax Clade V, nested within a clade of Pacific Ocean Osedax though with poor support. The minimum interspecific COI distance between O. nataliae sp. nov. and another known Osedax was 13.92% (closest to O. ‘sagami-3’). The maximum intraspecific COI diversity (uncorrected) within O. nataliae sp. nov. sampled here was 2.44% and population structure was visualized via haplotype network analysis. Morphologically, O. nataliae sp. nov. is characterized by its reddish orange crown of palps and a ventral yellowish collar on the anterior trunk where it meets the base of the crown. Osedax nataliae sp. nov. shares features with other Clade V species, notably pinnules inserted on the outer margin of palps. Additionally, the presence of dwarf males within the tube lumen of females was documented. Further sampling and research in the Southern Hemisphere are needed to understand the diversity and biogeography of Osedax across the world’s oceans.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Four new species of Tapinocyba Simon, 1884 (Araneae, Linyphiidae) from Jiangjin District of Chongqing, China
Four new species of the genus Tapinocyba Simon, 1884 are described from Jiangjin, Chongqing: T. centralis sp. nov. (♂), T. denticulata sp. nov. (♂♀), T. triangularis sp. nov. (♂♀), and T. virga sp. nov. (♂♀). The new species exhibit distinctive genital features, such as a bifurcated embolus tip in the male palp of T. denticulata sp. nov. and T. virga sp. nov., and embolus tip unbifurcated in T. centralis sp. nov. The epigynes display more unique characteristics, such as epigynal plate with a pit ventrally on its frontal face in T. triangularis sp. nov. and T. virga sp. nov., which is absent in all other known Tapinocyba species. Detailed descriptions, along with photographs of genital characters, somatic features, and a distribution map, are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Chromis abadhah (Teleostei, Pomacentridae), a new species of damselfish from mesophotic coral ecosystems of the Maldives
A new species of Chromis (Teleostei, Pomacentridae) is described from four specimens collected between 95 and 110 m depth in mesophotic coral ecosystems in the Maldives, Indian Ocean. Chromis abadhah sp. nov. can be distinguished from all of its congeners by the following combination of characters: dorsal-fin rays XIII, 12–13; anal-fin rays II,11–12; pectoral-fin rays 17–18; tubed lateral-line scales 17; gill rakers 7+17–18 = 24–25; pearly white body with a large black marking covering the anterior two-thirds of the anal fin. The closest DNA barcode sequence (5.1% average uncorrected genetic distance on the mitochondrial COI gene), among those available, is Chromis woodsi, a similar mesophotic species known from the coastal western Indian Ocean (Somalia to South Africa). The new species is easily distinguished from C. woodsi by having 13 dorsal spines (versus 14 in C. woodsi), the absence of a black band on the base of the tail (present in C. woodsi), and by the genetic difference.

A new species of Pristimantis (Amphibia, Anura, Strabomantidae) from a montane forest of the Pui Pui Protected Forest in central Peru
Herpetological inventories conducted in the Pui Pui Protected Forest in the central Peruvian Andes between 2012 and 2014 revealed unusually high local anuran richness and endemism. Herein, we describe a new species of Pristimantis discovered in the buffer zone of the protected area between 1550 and 1730 m a.s.l. The description is based on one subadult male (snout–vent length 14.4 mm), one adult female (snout–vent length 26.4 mm), and six juvenile specimens collected in the montane forest between 1550 and 1730 m a.s.l. DNA barcoding placed P. vrazi sp. nov. as the sister taxon to P. rhabdocnemus and in the clade also containing P. lindae, P. sinschi, P. quaquaversus, and one still unnamed Pristimantis species. Pristimantis vrazi sp. nov. differs from all these closely related species by the combination of the following characters: tuberculate dorsum, presence of the tympanum, presence of dentigerous processes on the vomer, absence of vocal slits, a red median horizontal streak across the iris, a narrow black median vertical streak on the lower half of the eye, cream to dark brown dorsal ground coloration, and cream to gray ventral ground coloration.
["Andes"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

A new species of the Neotropical genus Smilidarnis Andrade (Hemiptera, Membracidae), with a new country record for the genus
Smilidarnis is fixed as the correct original spelling. Smilidarnis similifasciatus, sp. nov., from Bolivia and French Guiana, closely resembles S. fasciatus Andrade in being brightly colored but differs in the metathoracic tibial chaetotaxy, the male pygofer, first anal segment, aedeagus, and color pattern. In this new species, which is larger than S. fasciatus, females are larger than males. Photographs of the male and female adults and genitalia of the new species are provided. Bolivia is a new country record for the genus. A key to all species is provided.
["Bolivia"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new species of the genus Leptobrachella (Amphibia, Anura, Megophryidae) from Dayaoshan National Nature Reserve, Guangxi, China
A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella, L. dayaoshanensis sp. nov., is described based on phylogenetic analysis, morphological characters, and bioacoustic data. This species occurs in the Dayaoshan National Nature Reserve located in Jinxiu County, Guangxi, China. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that this new species is closely related to L. verrucosa, as demonstrated by phylogenetic trees. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) medium size (mean snout–vent length (SVL) of 27.9 ± 0.7 mm, range 26.6–28.9 mm in males; 34.4 mm in female); (2) rough dorsal surface featuring small, raised tubercles and ridges; (3) flanks adorned with irregular black spots and creamy white glands; (4) creamy white ventral surface with sparse light-brown spots and irregular tiny textures; (5) brown throat and chest; (6) rudimentary toe webbing; (7) wide lateral fringes on toes; (8) distinct continuous ventrolateral glandular line; (9) tibiotarsal articulation reaching the midpoint of eye when the leg is extended forward; (10) heels that do not meet when thighs are appressed at right angles to body; (11) bicolored iris, with the upper half being copper and gradually transitioning to silver in the lower half; and (12) advertisement calls consisting of two model types, with dominant frequencies of 4.2–6.8 kHz at 21.0 °C. The new species has a breeding season that occurs from March to April and is found in evergreen forests at elevations between 1,000 and 1,600 m.
["Bioacoustics"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Five new species of the genus Grouvellinus Champion, 1923 from Guizhou Province, China (Coleoptera, Elmidae)
The genus Grouvellinus Champion, 1923 comprises 60 described species distributed across the Oriental and Palearctic regions. Species diversity is very high in mainland China, with 28 recorded species. Here, the results of the aquatic beetle survey in Guizhou Province are presented; they began in 2021, when we collected more than 5000 specimens of riffle beetle. All specimens come from small ravine streams where inhabited submerged stones. Using morphological characters of adults such as body form and size, coloration, elytral, pronotal and ventral surface structures, and forms of male and female genitalia, five new species were discovered and are described: Grouvellinus loong sp. nov., G. buyi sp. nov., G. wangmoensis sp. nov., G. lihaitaoi sp. nov., G. muyinlini sp. nov. The species descriptions contain illustrations of diagnostic characters and measurements of metric characters such as body length, pronotal length, pronotal width, elytral length and width, and head length and width. The females are, on average, larger and have only slight differences in external morphology compared to the males. The comparative diagnoses discuss characters of the new and already known species. The results show that the existing species diversity requires more detailed research focusing on larger areas of South China in the future.
["Aquatic beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Diversity of spiders in Daba Mountain National Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China (I), three new Cicurina species of Cicurinidae (Araneae)
Three new species of the genus Cicurina Menge, 1871 are described from Daba Mountain National Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China: C. chengkou sp. nov. (♂♀), C. dabashan sp. nov. (♂♀) and C. longihamata sp. nov. (♂♀). Morphological descriptions, photos and illustrations of copulatory organs are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Notes on the genus Thibetana (Lepidoptera, Zygaenidae) with description of a new species from China
The genus Thibetana Efetov & Tarmann, 1995 includes six species occurring in southwest China and Indian Sikkim. In the present paper, Thibetana weii Li & He, sp. nov., the seventh species of the genus encountered at the foot of Galongla Snow Mountain, southeast Xizang of China is described. Habitus of the adult and genitalia of the new species are illustrated, and a checklist and a key of all Thibetana species are provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Cremastobombycia socoromaensis sp. nov., the first South American representative of the micromoth genus Cremastobombycia Braun (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Lithocolletinae)
The micromoth Cremastobombycia socoromaensis sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Lithocolletinae) from the arid highlands of the western slope of the Andes of northern Chile is described and illustrated. Larvae construct bulged leaf mines on the shrub Baccharis tola Phil. (Asteraceae). Pupation occurs in a silk cocoon constructed by the last instar larva inside the mine. The cocoon and the mine surface are pierced by the frontal process of the pupa to allow adult emergence. This discovery represents the first record of Cremastobombycia Braun, 1908 in South America.
["Andes"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of Rhyacophila Pictet, 1834 (Trichoptera, Rhyacophilidae) from Corsica with the genomic characterization of the holotype
We describe a new species in the Rhyacophila tristis group, Rhyacophila lignumvallis Graf & Rázuri-Gonzales, sp. nov., from the island of Corsica (France) based on a single male specimen. In addition to the morphological differences between the new species and the most similar species in the group, we also provide a phylogenetic tree based on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (mtCOI), including sequences from 16 out of the 28 currently recognized species in the group. These data, together with conspecific larval sequences, support the status of the new species and shed light on an additional potential new species near Rhyacophila pubescens. Using a low-cost next-generation sequencing approach, we generated the mito- and draft nuclear genome assembly of the holotype of R. lignumvallis sp. nov. as well as that of R. tsurakiana. This genetic data represents an important additional characterization to the description of morphological features and is valuable for future investigations, such as population or phylogenomic studies.
["Caddisflies"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Two new species and one new record of the genus Torodora Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Lecithoceridae) from China
Two new species of the genus Torodora Meyrick, 1894 are described from China: T. lichi sp. nov. and T. mici sp. nov. Additionally, T. silvatica Park, 2007 is newly recorded for China. Images of the adults and their genitalia are provided.
["Gelechioidea"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New taxonomic and faunistic data on the funnel-weavers (Araneae, Agelenidae) of Turkiye and the Caucasus, with five new species
New taxonomic and faunistic data on the agelenid spiders of Turkiye and the Caucasus are provided. Five species are described as new to science: Maimuna antalyensis sp. nov. (♂♀; Turkiye: Antalya), Tegenaria ballarini sp. nov. (♂♀; Turkiye: Antalya), T. beyazcika sp. nov. (♂; Turkiye: Antalya), T. egrisiana sp. nov. (♂♀; Georgia: Imereti), and T. hoeferi sp. nov. (♂♀; Armenia: Kotayk). Tegenaria lazarovi Dimitrov, 2020, syn. nov. is proposed as a new junior synonym of T. averni Brignoli, 1978. Persiscape caucasica (Guseinov, Marusik & Koponen, 2005) is newly reported from Armenia, and T. chumachenkoi Kovblyuk & Ponomarev, 2008 is reported for the first time from Turkiye. New distribution records for T. dalmatica Kulczyński, 1906, T. hamid Brignoli, 1978, T. longimana Simon, 1898 and T. percuriosa Brignoli, 1972, and topotype material for T. tekke Brignoli, 1978 are reported. The record of Eratigena fuesslini (Pavesi, 1873) from Turkiye is found to be based on a misidentification, and is herein attributed to T. hamid. The presence of an embolic spine, unknown in any other species of Tegenaria, is documented in T. anhela Brignoli, 1972 for the first time. Photographs are provided for all treated species.
["Anatolia"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Desert diversification: revision of Agroecotettix Bruner, 1908 (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Melanoplinae) with descriptions of sixteen new species from the United States and Mexico
In this study, a morphological revision was conducted of Agroecotettix Bruner, a group of grasshoppers inhabiting open xeric desert scrub, shrublands, and plains, spanning central Texas to central Mexico. The genus was originally described by Bruner in 1908, with two taxa added by Hebard in 1922. Agroecotettix has remained unrevised despite numerous collections. This exploration, spurred by a novel discovery of significant male genitalia variation in Agroecotettix aristus aristus, suggests undescribed species. Through morphological specimen comparisons, sixteen new species are described from biologically rich regions of the South Texas Plains, Chihuahuan Desert, and Sierra Madre Oriental. The new taxa described here are A. silverheelsi sp. nov., A. xiphophorus sp. nov., A. glochinos sp. nov., A. texmex sp. nov., A. cumbres sp. nov., A. burtoni sp. nov., A. moorei sp. nov., A. chiantiensis sp. nov., A. dorni sp. nov., A. chisosensis sp. nov., A. turneri sp. nov., A. quitmanensis sp. nov., A. vaquero sp. nov., A. forcipatus sp. nov., A. idic sp. nov., and A. kahloae sp. nov. This discovery sheds light on desert biodiversity and hints at a Pleistocene radiation akin to other melanoplines, urging further exploration to enrich our understanding of this fascinating lineage and unravel the biogeographic history within these arid landscapes.
["Aridland scrub jumpers"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

The first record of the genus Dichodontocis Kawanabe, 1994 (Coleoptera, Ciidae) from China, with the description of a new species and its larva
The genus Dichodontocis Kawanabe, 1994 is newly recorded from China, and a new species, Dichodontocis guangzhouensis sp. nov. and its larva, is described and illustrated from Guangdong Province. We provide habitat and host fungi photos of the new species and a key to all described species of the genus.
["Minute tree-fungus beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Discovery of a new Isonychia species with distinctive characters from southwestern China, and preliminary exploration of its phylogenetic status (Ephemeroptera, Isonychiidae)
The genus Isonychia Eaton, 1871 is widely distributed across the Holarctic and Oriental regions. However, no representatives of this genus have been reported from southwestern China, a region known for its high biodiversity. Here, we described and illustrated Isonychia latias sp. nov., a new species recently collected from Guizhou Province, southwestern China, across all developmental stages. The imagos of this new species exhibit some uncommon characters within Isonychia, such as brown mid- and hindlegs, and pale stripes on the thorax. To explore the phylogenetic status of this new species within Isonychia, a multigene phylogenetic analysis was conducted.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Review of the wolf spider genus Halocosa Azarkina & Trilikauskas, 2019 from China (Araneae, Lycosidae)
The wolf spider genus Halocosa Azarkina & Trilikauskas, 2019 from China is reviewed, including two species: H. cereipes (L. Koch, 1878) (♂♀) and H. hatanensis (Urita, Tang & Song, 1993) (♂♀). Both species are restricted to northern China, with H. cereipes recorded from China for the first time. Halocosa jartica (Urita, Tang & Song, 1993), syn. nov. is synonymized with H. hatanensis (Urita, Tang & Song, 1993). Detailed species descriptions, along with morphological photos, genitalia illustrations, SEM photos of the bulbs and photos of live specimens are also presented.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Four new species of leptonetid spiders (Araneae, Leptonetidae) from Anhui Province, China
Four new species of leptonetid spiders from Anhui Province, China are recognized: Jingneta qishan Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀), Jingneta wukuishan Tong, sp. nov. (♂), Leptonetela jingde Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Rhyssoleptoneta lishan Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀). An identification key to leptonetid spiders from Anhui is provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Four new species of Leuctra Stephens, 1836 from the Balkans (Plecoptera, Leuctridae)
Four, presumably microendemic new Leuctra species are described on the basis of morphology of the adult males and females. Each species was collected only in a single mountain range of the western Balkans: Leuctra enigma Kovács & Murányi, sp. nov. (Albania, Çermenikë), L. golija sp. nov. (Serbia, Golija), L. puskasi sp. nov. (Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kozara), L. visitor sp. nov. (Montenegro, Visitor). Their morphological affinities and ecology are discussed, phylogenetic relations will be described in the framework of ongoing molecular studies of Balkan Leuctra species. The occurrences of the new species are depicted on a map. A list of Balkan endemic Leuctra species is given. Leuctra dalmoni Vinçon & Murányi, 2007 is new for Albania and Montenegro, Nemoura uncinata Despax, 1934, N. marginata Pictet, 1836 and Isoperla buresi Raušer, 1962 are new for Albania, Nemoura sciurus Aubert, 1949 is new for Bosnia & Herzegovina, while Capnia s. l. vidua rilensis Raušer, 1962 and L. metsovonica Aubert, 1956 are new for Montenegro.
["Albania"]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Two new species and additional records of Sinlathrobium Assing (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from southern China
New taxonomic and faunistic data for three species of the genus Sinlathrobium Assing, 2013 from China are provided. Sinlathrobium assingi Chen & Peng, sp. nov. (Chongqing: West Daba Shan) and Sinlathrobium chenzhilini Chen & Peng, sp. nov. (Guangxi: Maoer Shan) are described and illustrated. Additional records from Chongqing, detailed bionomic data and female sexual characters of S. lobrathioides (Assing, 2012) are provided. A key to the species of Sinlathrobium is given.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Taxonomic notes on the genus Chaitoregma (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Hormaphidinae), with description of a new species from China
A new aphid species, Chaitoregma kirlia sp. nov., from Fujian and Guangdong, China, is described, which feeds on bamboo. The diagnostic morphological characteristics of the new species are described and illustrated. A key to apterous viviparous females of Chaitoregma species is provided. The COI barcode sequence of this new species is also provided. Due to its unique morphological characteristics, the diagnosis of the genus has been revised. Other species within the genus are also reviewed and discussed.
["Chaitoregma"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Identification of two new species of Mecistocephalus (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha, Mecistocephalidae) from southern China and the re-description of Mecistocephalus smithii Pocock, 1895
Mecistocephalus Newport, 1843 is the most diverse genus in the family Mecistocephalidae; however, only two species have been recorded in mainland China to date. Therefore, taxonomic research on Chinese Mecistocephalus needs further research. In this study, the species diversity of Mecistocephalus in southern China was investigated using the mitochondrial marker COI integrated with morphological evidence. Species delimitation using Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery, Poisson Tree Processes, and phylogenetic and morphological analyses revealed ten species, including two newly described species, M. chuensis Jiang & You, sp. nov. and M. huangi Jiang & You, sp. nov. Furthermore, based on newly collected specimens, the presence of the little-known species M. smithii Pocock, 1895 was confirmed in China and thoroughly re-described.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new species of the genus Dryadaula Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Dryadaulidae) from Japan, with a redescription of D. epischista (Meyrick, 1936)
Dryadaula epischista (Meyrick, 1936), initially described from a single male specimen in Japan, is herein redescribed based on newly collected specimens from the type locality. Furthermore, we describe Dryadaula orientalis Park & Yagi, sp. nov., a new species from Japan that closely resembles D. epischista. The adults and genitalia of the two species are illustrated. The genitalia of D. epischista from a specimen collected at the type locality are shown for the first time. DNA barcodes of the two Dryadaula species and the genetic distances of barcode regions among them and other congeners are provided.
["Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new Trychopeplus species (Phasmatodea, Diapheromerinae, Cladomorformia) discovered from Ecuador’s enigmatic Chocó ecoregion
This study presents a description of a new stick insect species belonging to the genus Trychopeplus Shelford, 1909, discovered by the authors in the Chocó ecoregion of northwestern Ecuador. Trychopeplus mashpiensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on males, females, and eggs. The distinctive features of this new species, such as its unique body ornamentation and the morphology of its egg structure without fringes, clearly differentiate it from other known species within the genus. Photographs of the new species are provided, along with an updated key and distribution map for all Trychopeplus species. These findings enhance our understanding of the genus’s diversity.
["Identification key"]

Three new species of the genus Bambusiphaga Huang & Ding, 1979 (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Delphacidae, Tropidocephalini) from China, with an updated checklist and key to species
In this study, three new bamboo-feeding species of the genus Bambusiphaga Huang & Ding, 1979 (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Delphacidae, Tropidocephalini), B. caudospina Lv, Li & Chen, sp. nov., B. laterospina Lv, Li & Chen, sp. nov. and B. striola Lv, Li & Chen, sp. nov. from Southwest China, are described and illustrated, bringing the total number of species in the genus to 34. An updated identification key and checklist to all known species of Bambusiphaga are provided.
["Bamboo pests"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Proaphelinoides Girault (Hymenoptera, Aphelinidae) from China, with a phylogenetic analysis
A new species of Proaphelinoides Girault, Proaphelinoides huangi Chen & Jiang, sp. nov., is reported from China. A key to all species of the genus is provided. DNA standard barcode COI and partial nuclear ribosomal 28S-D2 from two individuals of Proaphelinoides were sequenced, and 28S-D2 rDNA was included in a phylogenetic analysis, confirming Proaphelinoides as the sister group to Aphytis.
["Aphelininae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Two new species of Eccoptopterus Motschulsky, 1863 ambrosia beetle from Taiwan and Thailand (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini)
Two xyleborine ambrosia beetles, Eccoptopterus formosanus sp. nov. and E. intermedius sp. nov. are described from Taiwan and Thailand, respectively, based on DNA sequences (COI and CAD) and morphological characteristics. A key to the Eccoptopterus species of Southeast Asia is provided.
["Ambrosia beetle"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Uncovering the rich amphibian fauna of two semideciduous forest fragments in southwestern Bahia, Brazil
Fauna inventories reduce biodiversity knowledge gaps by providing comprehensive data on species distribution, richness, and abundance. Furthermore, they identify undocumented species and enhance understanding of ecosystem dynamics and conservation needs. The richness and abundance of amphibian species were studied in two Semideciduous Seasonal Forest areas in the municipalities of Potiraguá (Serra Azul) and Itarantim (Serra do Mandim) in southwestern Bahia, Brazil. Active visual and acoustic surveys were conducted in 24 forest interior transects, two stream transects, and two permanent ponds investigated in the study area. Opportunistic encounters during team movements were also recorded. The richness was 46 amphibian species distributed in 14 families and 26 genera. Approximately half of the species were shared between the two areas, while 11 species were exclusive to Serra Azul and another nine were found only in Serra do Mandim. Cluster analysis for 42 locations in Atlantic Forest, Caatinga, and Cerrado, in a presence/absence matrix with 216 species, revealed that the composition of the amphibians found in Serra do Mandim and Serra Azul is similar to other sampled locations in the northeastern region of Minas Gerais, close to the study site, which are considered transitional between the Atlantic Forest and the Caatinga. Our results demonstrate that the remaining forest fragments in the region, although small and isolated, still sustain a high richness of amphibians with species restricted to the Atlantic Forest and Bahia, such as Bahius bilineatus, Ololygon strigilata, Aplastodiscus weygoldti and Vitreorana eurygnatha, and others considered typical of the Caatinga, such as Leptodactylus troglodytes and Physalaemus cicada. Additionally, we sampled potential new species, filled occurrence gaps, and expanded the geographical range of Pseudis fusca.
["Anura"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Description of six new crab-spider species and first description of the male of Pharta xizang Liu & Yao, 2023 from Medog, Xizang, China (Araneae, Thomisidae)
Seven species of the crab-spider family Thomisidae from Medog, Xizang, China are described here, including six new species: Camaricus medog Wang, Lu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), Monaeses xizang Wang, Lu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), Sinothomisus beibeng Wang, Lu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), Sinothomisus dawai Wang, Lu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), Spilosynema motuo Wang, Lu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), and Thomisus yarang Wang, Lu & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀). The male of Pharta xizang Liu & Yao, 2023 is described here for the first time. Descriptions and photographs of all the species are provided.

Five new species and one new record of the genus Phaenocarpa Foerster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) from South Korea
Five new species of the genus Phaenocarpa Foester, 1863 (Braconidae: Alysiinae) are described and illustrated: P. acutidentata Sohn & van Achterberg, sp. nov., P. tacitoides Sohn & van Achterberg, sp. nov., P. setosa Sohn & van Achterberg, sp. nov., P. tanycauda Sohn & van Achterberg, sp. nov., and P. angusticeps Sohn & van Achterberg, sp. nov. Additionally, P. tacita Stelfox, 1941 is recorded for the first time from South Korea. The barcode region of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) was also analyzed for the seven congeneric species including one from GenBank. In addition, an identification key for the Phaenocarpa species recorded in Korea is provided.
["Alysiini"]
["Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Historical and Archaeological Studies"]

DNA barcode library of Portuguese water mites, with the descriptions of two new species (Acari, Hydrachnidia)
This study presents the first results from the analysis of water mites collected in Portugal as part of the Biodiversity Genomics Europe project. 307 COI DNA barcodes clustered into 75 BINs are provided, with 38 BINs being unique and deposited for the first time in the Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD). 65 species have been identified, of which 36 are new to the water mite fauna of Portugal. Two species, Torrenticola soniae Pešić, sp. nov. and T. elisabethae Pešić, sp. nov. (Torrenticolidae), are described as new to science. 47% of the water mite species currently known from Portugal now have reference barcodes in BOLD. High intraspecific distances were recorded for some species, suggesting the presence of cryptic diversity and species complexes that needs further study. Our results improve the DNA barcode reference database for Portuguese water mites, enhancing species identification accuracy and stimulating future investigation.
["Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI)"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

150 years after Ferdinand Morawitz: a survey of megachilid bees (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae) of Dagestan, Russia
A list of 148 species of megachilid bees from 16 genera and five tribes is reported for the Republic of Dagestan. The list is based on more than 2,500 examined specimens and one reliable literature record. Twelve species are new to Russia: Chelostoma (Chelostoma) emarginatum (Nylander, 1856), C. (Foveosmia) maidli (Benoist, 1935), Hoplitis (Alcidamea) campanularis (Morawitz, 1877), H. (A.) caucasica (Friese, 1920), H. (Anthocopa) perezi (Ferton, 1894), H. (Pentadentosmia) tringa (Warncke, 1991), Osmia (Allosmia) melanura Morawitz, 1871, O. (Helicosmia) breviata Warncke, 1988, O. (Osmia) scheherazade Peters, 1978, O. (Pyrosmia) saxicola Ducke, 1899, Anthidium (Anthidium) taeniatum Latreille, 1809, and Megachile (Chalicodoma) montenegrensis Dours, 1873. Nine other species are new to the North Caucasus, and 46 other species are new to Dagestan. Compared to the first list of the bees of Dagestan published by F. Morawitz 150 years ago, the number of species of Megachilidae known from the republic was increased by five times.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A century later: a new species of Mastigoceras Handschin, 1924 (Collembola, Orchesellidae), with morphological and systematic updates on the genus
Mastigoceras camponoti Handschin, the sole member of its genus and the Mastigocerini tribe, exhibits unusual dorsal chaetotaxy compared to other Orchesellidae. This includes a reduction in dorsal macrochaetotaxy and a secondary covering of fusiform scales intermixed with ciliate microchaetae. Despite three redescriptions, Mastigoceras chaetotaxy remains poorly understood, with no data on tergal sensilla patterns or dorsal macrochaetae homology. Here, the genus is revisited by describing a new Brazilian species a century after the original description of M. camponoti, based on morphological depiction combined with the use of DNA barcoding, Mastigoceras handschini Rodrigues, Souza & Bellini, sp. nov. The two species are differentiated by a few and unusual aspects of the dorsal chaetotaxy, especially scales distribution, and may be considered as pseudocryptic taxa. Our study of tergal sensilla formula, scales morphology, and distribution in Mastigoceras reveals no clear morphological support for placing Mastigocerini within Heteromurinae.
["Cryptic diversity"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Adelphomyia crane flies (Diptera, Limoniidae) of Korea with identification key for all Palaearctic species
Limnophilinae crane flies belonging to the genus Adelphomyia Bergroth, 1891 of the Korean Peninsula were studied starting from 1937, but only one species A. macrotrichiata (Alexander, 1923) has been recorded from North Korea so far. The genus was unknown from South Korea. Four species were found during our studies on the Peninsula, one of them from Jeju Island described as new, Adelphomyia jejuana Podenas, sp. nov. Three species are recorded from both northern and southern parts of the Peninsula. Specimens on which was based the record of A. macrotrichiata from North Korea was misidentified and no more specimens were collected; therefore, A. macrotrichiata is deleted from the Korean species list. Habitat, elevation range, and seasonality data is presented for each species. Images of taxonomically important morphological characters, and an identification key for all Palaearctic species of the genus Adelphomyia are presented. Distribution maps are presented for all Korean species.
["East Palaearctic"]

The era of cybertaxonomy: X-ray microtomography reveals cryptic diversity and concealed cuticular sculpture in Aphanerostethus Voss, 1957 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae)
Weevils represent one of the most speciose and economically important animal clades, but remain poorly studied across much of the Oriental Region. Here, an integrative revision of the Oriental, flightless genus Aphanerostethus Voss, 1957 (Curculionidae: Molytinae) based on X-ray microtomography, multi-gene DNA barcoding (CO1, Cytb, 16S), and traditional morphological techniques (light microscopy, dissections) is presented. Twelve new species, namely, A. armatus Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov., A. bifidus Kojima & Lewis, sp. nov., A. darlingi Lewis, sp. nov., A. decoratus Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov., A. falcatus Kojima, Lewis & Fujisawa, sp. nov., A. incurvatus Kojima & Lewis, sp. nov., A. japonicus Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov., A. magnus Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov., A. morimotoi Kojima & Lewis, sp. nov., A. nudus Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov., A. spinosus Lewis & Kojima, sp. nov., and A. taiwanus Lewis, Fujisawa & Kojima, sp. nov. are described from Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Malaysia. A neotype is designated for A. vannideki Voss, 1957. The hitherto monotypic genus Darumazo Morimoto & Miyakawa, 1985, syn. nov. is synonymized under Aphanerostethus based on new morphological data and Aphanerostethus distinctus (Morimoto & Miyakawa, 1985), comb. nov. is transferred accordingly. X-ray microtomography is successfully used to explore for stable interspecific differences in cuticular, internal and micro morphology. Remarkable species-specific sexual dimorphism in the metatibial uncus is described in seven of the newly described Aphanerostethus species and the evolution of this character is discussed.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies"]

Taxonomic review of the grasshopper genus Pteropera Karsch, 1891 (Orthoptera, Acrididea, Catantopinae) with description of three new species and a preliminary phylogeny of the Cameroonian species
The Afrotropical grasshopper genus Pteropera Karsch, 1891, is reviewed. Some species present in Cameroon are described, Pteropera augustini Donskoff, 1981, is recorded for the first time in the country, and three new species are described from Cameroon, Pteropera kennei Yetchom & Husemann, sp. nov., Pteropera matzkei Yetchom & Husemann, sp. nov. and Pteropera missoupi Yetchom & Husemann, sp. nov., increasing the number of Pteropera species in Cameroon from eight to 12, and overall to 30 species in Central Africa. An updated key of Pteropera is provided. Photographs with data on the distributions of all known species are given. In addition, a phylogenetic tree was constructed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference on the basis of a concatenated dataset of COI, 16S, and 12S markers of available Cameroonian species. The maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses of the concatenated datasets resulted in a well-resolved phylogeny of the group and species of Pteropera were recovered as monophyletic, largely with high support. In all cases, the discrimination of all studied species based on barcode information was congruent with the species limits determined by traditional taxonomy. Our findings show the potential of integrative taxonomy to resolve the relationships among grasshoppers below the family level. Further analyses, including more comprehensive taxon sampling and additional nuclear markers, are needed, and the occurrence of several taxa still needs to be confirmed in African rainforests.
["DNA barcodes"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Nine new spider species of Belisana Thorell, 1898 (Araneae, Pholcidae) from karst caves, with a list of species of the genus from Guizhou, southwestern China
Species of the spider genus Belisana Thorell, 1898 exhibit high diversity in Guizhou, southwestern China. Previously, only eight species of Belisana were recorded in Guizhou. In this study, nine new species are described from karst caves: Belisana bijie Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., B. liupanshui Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., B. majiang Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., B. nayong Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., B. qixingguan Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., B. xiuwen Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., B. yongcong Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., B. zhouxi Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov., and B. zunyi Wang, S. Li & Yao, sp. nov. Belisana zhangi Tong & Li, 2007 is reported from Guizhou for the first time. In addition, a list of all species of Belisana from Guizhou is provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Updated checklist, habitat affinities, and changes over time of the Indiana (USA) caddisfly fauna (Insecta, Trichoptera)
Based on recent collecting and a synthesis of ~100 years of historical data, 219 caddisfly species are reported from the state of Indiana. Seventeen species are reported herein from the state for the first time, including two previously thought to be endemic to the southeastern USA. Species records are also presented herein organized by drainage basin, ecoregion, glacial history, and waterbody type for two distinct time periods: before 1983 and after 2005. More species were reported from the state before 1983 than after 2005, despite collecting almost 3× the number of occurrence records during the latter period. Species occurrence records were greater for most families and functional feeding groups (FFGs) for the post-2005 time period, although the Limnephilidae, Phryganeidae, Molannidae, and Lepidostomatidae, particularly those in the shredder FFG, instead had greater records before 1983. This loss of shredders probably reflected the ongoing habitat degradation within the state. While species rarefaction predicts only a few more species to be found in Indiana, many regions still remain under-sampled and 44 species have not been collected in >40 years.
["Biological diversity"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Revision of the genus Digonis (Lepidoptera, Geometridae): new species and new genera
The taxonomic study of the Chilean Ennomini genera is still in its early stages. Within this group, the maculation patterns of Chilean species are uniform and often inadequate for distinguishing between many species, compounded by a lack of taxonomic revisions focused on the genera within the tribe. In this study, the genus Digonis Butler, 1882, is reviewed and redefined based on characteristics of wing patterns and genitalia. Digonis comprises the following five species: D. aspersa Butler, 1882, D. cervinaria (Blanchard, 1852), D. punctifera Butler, 1882, D. gungnir Ramos-González & Parra, sp. nov., and D. apocrypha Ramos-González & Parra, sp. nov. Additionally, D. cuprea Butler, 1882 is synonymized with D. cervinaria (Blanchard, 1852), and all varieties of D. punctifera Butler, 1882, and D. cuprea are synonymized with their respective species. Furthermore, two new genera are introduced: Phasmadigonis Ramos-González & Parra, gen. nov., erected for P. alba (Butler, 1882), comb. nov., and Gugnelve Ramos-González & Parra, gen. nov., established for G. butleri Ramos-González & Parra, sp. nov. With the species and genus descriptions, a comparative diagnosis, genitalia illustrations for all species, and wing venation for each genus are provided.
["Andean Region"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Caribbean Amphipoda (Crustacea) of Panama. Part III: parvorder Lysianassidira
Amphipods in the parvorder Lysianassidira are scavengers, often collected in sediment, coral rubble, algae, or among other invertebrates. Members of the parvorder have a head that is deeper than long, large coxae, lacinia mobilis present only on the left molar, and a mitten-shaped gnathopod 2 propodus with a long ischium. Nine species from two families within the parvorder are documented from Bocas del Toro, Panama. This research documents range extensions for eight species and an identification key to the species of Caribbean Lysianassidira of Panama is provided.
["Bocas del Toro"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

First contribution to the genera Branchiobaetis and Megabranchiella (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) in China, with descriptions of two new species
Branchiobaetis Kaltenbach, Kluge & Gattolliat, 2022 and Megabranchiella Phlai-ngam & Tungpairojwong, 2022 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) are newly recorded in China. Two new species, Branchiobaetis borealis sp. nov. based on larval stage and Branchiobaetis megasinus sp. nov. based on larval and imaginal stages associated by laboratory rearing, are described. Megabranchiella longusa Phlai-ngam & Tungpairojwong, 2022, previously only distributed from Thailand, is recorded from China for the first time.
["Baetid"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of the treehopper genus Enchenopa Amyot & Serville, 1843 (Hemiptera, Membracidae) from northwest Ecuador
Enchenopa Amyot & Serville, 1843 is a diverse treehopper genus widespread across the New World. We describe two new Enchenopa species from northwest Ecuador: Enchenopa gennyae sp. nov. from urban forest remnants at the foothills of the Andes cordillera and Enchenopa chocoandina sp. nov. from secondary montane forests. Enchenopa gennyae sp. nov. is placed in the E. biplaga species group and is distinguished by the sexual dimorphism of the pronotal horn and lateral carina shape, the straight metopidium, 2–4 accessory carinae and the whitish dorsal spot and subapical band. Enchenopa chocoandina sp. nov. belongs to the E. andina species group and is diagnosed by its reddish central carina and posterior pronotal process apex, presence of an obtuse projection rather than an anterior horn, three or four irregular accessory carinae, and apical amber forewing patch. Illustrations, notes on natural history, and keys to species of the E. biplaga and E. andina species groups are also provided.
["Membracinae"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new epigean species of Trichopeltis Pocock, 1894 from southwest China (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Cryptodesmidae)
A new species of Cryptodesmidae, Trichopeltis jiyue sp. nov., is described from the Ailaoshan National Nature Reserve in Yunnan Province, southwest China. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by the gonopodal coxae with two conspicuous wing-like processes, the relatively long, stout setae on the gonopodal coxae, gonopodal telopodites glabrous and four-branched, and the acropodite curved caudolaterad. The new species is the second record of an epigean species of genus Trichopeltis Pocock, 1894 in China. An updated key is provided to all 14 presently known species.

A new Boulenophrys species (Anura, Megophryidae) from the coastal hills of eastern Fujian Province, China
A new species of the genus Boulenophrys is described from the coastal hills of eastern Fujian Province, China. The new taxon can be distinguished from all recognized congeners by a combination of discrete morphological character state differences and genetic divergences in the combined mitochondrial 16S + CO1 genes. We also provide a map showing the distribution pattern of Boulenophrys species in Fujian and a provincial-specific key, which will aid their conservation by helping the local authorities accurately identify species during field identifications and data collection efforts.
["Boulenophrys lichun sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

First discovery of troglobitic Paederinae (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) from China
An unexpected troglobitic staphylinid is described from a dolomite cave in western China as Domene lizeyui Wang & He, sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae). The habitus of both sexes and important diagnostic features are illustrated. Brief notes on the habitat, biology and taxonomic status of the new species are provided. This is the first discovery of a troglobitic representative of Paederinae from China, the first record of a troglobitic Domene species, and only the third cavernicolous species of Paederinae from eastern Asia.
["Cavernicolous"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Discovery of a new species of the subgenus Japonigekko (Squamata, Gekkonidae, Gekko) from the Hengduan Mountains, southwestern China: the best Japonigekko mountaineer
A new Gekko (subgenus Japonigekko) species, Gekko alpinus sp. nov., is described from the Jinsha River Basin in southwestern China, between the border of Mangkang County, Xizang Autonomous Region and Batang County, Sichuan Province, according to the integrative taxonomic results combining molecular data and morphological characters obtained from the type series comprising 11 specimens. Our molecular phylogeny inferred from the mitochondrial 16S and ND2 gene fragments indicated that this new species is most closely related to Gekko jinjiangensis, but a considerable amount of genetic divergence exists between them (p-distance: 3.6%-4.1% (16S) and 7.1%–9.1% (ND2)). The new species can be distinguished from its congeners via a combination of series morphological characters. The discovery of this new species marks the highest altitudinal range (2400 to 2542 m a.s.l.) recorded for the subgenus Japonigekko and also represents a new provincial record for the genus in Xizang Autonomous Region.
["Gekko alpinus sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities"]

Review of the Palaearctic species of Apsilocera Bouček, 1956 (Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae), with descriptions of the eight new species
Palaearctic species of the genus Apsilocera Bouček, 1956 are reviewed. Twelve Palaearctic species are recognized based on females, of which eight new species are described: Apsilocera bradburyi Tselikh, Lee & Ku, sp. nov. (Republic of Korea), A. budai Tselikh, Lee & Ku, sp. nov. (Republic of Korea), A. eleganta Tselikh, Haas & Ku, sp. nov. (Republic of Korea, Sweden), A. grandistigma Tselikh, Lee & Ku, sp. nov. (Republic of Korea), A. jejuensis Tselikh, Lee & Ku, sp. nov. (Republic of Korea), A. marina Tselikh, Lee & Ku, sp. nov. (Republic of Korea), A. totoroi Tselikh, Haas & Ku, sp. nov. (Germany, Japan, Sweden), and A. triapitzini Tselikh, Haas & Ku, sp. nov. (Russia, Republic of Korea, Sweden). The female of A. verticillata Bouček, 1956 is described for the first time. Apsilocera dupla Mitroiu & Achterberg, 2013 and A. elongata Mitroiu & Achterberg, 2013 are recorded from the Palaearctic region for the first time. An identification key to females of all Palaearctic species of Apsilocera is given.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of the pill millipede genus Rhopalomeris Verhoeff, 1906 (Diplopoda, Glomerida, Glomeridae) from Myanmar, and notes on Rhopalomeris carnifex (Pocock, 1889)
The taxonomy of the pill millipede genus Rhopalomeris Verhoeff, 1906, which is restricted to Indochina and currently comprises six described species, is refined and updated. An integrative taxonomic approach was employed that combines morphological examination with DNA barcoding using the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene for species identification and delineation. The first objective was to confirm the identity of Rhopalomeris carnifex (Pocock, 1889), a charismatic species known as the “candy pill millipede” due to its vivid coloration, based on specimens collected near the type locality in Myanmar. The second objective was to describe a new species, Rhopalomeris nigroflava Likhitrakarn, sp. nov., discovered in Linno Gu, Kayin State, Myanmar. This new species is distinguished by its small body size (5.1–9.7 mm long) and yellow body with contrasting brown to blackish markings on certain terga. In addition, the position of the telopod syncoxital lobe relative to the lateral syncoxite horns separates it from other Rhopalomeris species. The interspecific divergence between R. nigroflava Likhitrakarn, sp. nov. and other congeners ranges from 10.85% to 16.13%, based on uncorrected COI p-distances, while the intraspecific divergence was 0%–7.44%. A distribution map of and a revised identification key to all known species of Rhopalomeris are also provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Description of two new species of the genus Trachelas L. Koch, 1872 and the male of T. gaoligongensis Jin, Yin & Zhang, 2017 from China (Araneae, Trachelidae)
Two new spider species of the genus Trachelas L. Koch, 1872 are described from China: Trachelas kavanaughi sp. nov. (♀) and Trachelas ventriosus sp. nov. (♀). The male of Trachelas gaoligongensis Jin, Yin & Zhang, 2017 is described for the first time. Illustrations of the body and copulatory organs and a distribution map are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Description of Ixodes lanigeri sp. nov., a new hard tick species (Acari, Ixodidae) collected from mouse-eared bats (Vespertilionidae, Myotis) in Vietnam
Historically, for more than one and a half centuries, only one so-called “long-legged bat tick” species, i.e., Ixodes vespertilionis Koch was known to science. However, during the past decade, it was recognized on a molecular basis that long-legged ixodid ticks associated with bats may represent at least six species. Of these, until recently, five have been morphologically described. In this study, Ixodes ticks were collected from two Myotis species in southeastern Asia, Vietnam. Based on the morphological and molecular characteristics of the female, nymph and larva, Ixodes lanigeri Hornok, sp. nov. is described here. The male is unknown. Like other members of the Ixodes ariadnae complex, I. lanigeri Hornok apparently shows a preference for vesper bats as its typical hosts. In this context, host-association and geographical separation may explain the evolutionary divergence of I. lanigeri Hornok from its closest relative occurring on Murina hilgendorfi Peters in East Asia, Japan, because no Myotis or Murina spp. have overlapping distribution between Vietnam and the main islands of Japan. On the other hand, supposing that (similarly to I. ariadnae) I. lanigeri Hornok probably occurs on other myotine bats and knowing that several Myotis species indigenous in Vietnam have a broad geographical range in southern and southeastern Asia, the new tick species most likely has a widespread distribution in this area.
["Chiroptera"]
["Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Distribution extension of a vent scale worm Branchinotogluma bipapillata (Polychaeta, Polynoidae) in the Indian Ocean
Branchinotogluma Pettibone, 1985 is the most species-rich genus within the subfamily Lepidonotopodinae Pettibone, 1983, comprising 18 valid species from chemosynthesis-based ecosystems in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Here, we report a new distributional record of Branchinotogluma bipapillata Zhou, Wang, Zhang & Wang, 2018, at the hydrothermal vent sites on the northern Central Indian Ridge (nCIR). This record represents the northernmost occurrence of B. bipapillata in the Indian Ocean. We conducted a comparative study of the nCIR population and other documented populations using distributional information, morphological traits, and genetic markers (two mitochondrial [COI, 16S rRNA] and one nuclear [18S rRNA] genes). While most morphological characters of B. bipapillata were consistent with those found in the Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR), variations were noted in the segment with the last branchiae. Molecular data revealed that all populations of B. bipapillata form a single clade, indicating a wide distribution from the SWIR to nCIR, covering ~4,000 km across various ridges in the Indian Ocean. This study presents extensive distribution of a vent species with well-connected populations throughout the Indian Ocean, distinguishing it from many other vent species affected by the dispersal barrier in the Indian Ocean.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

A new genus of Assamiidae (Opiliones, Grassatores) from Xizang, China
Knowledge of the family Assamiidae in the Eastern Himalayas is primarily concentrated from Nepal, while Bhutan, Xizang, and northeastern India remain much less studied. Herein, a new genus, Linzhiassamia gen. nov., is described from Xizang, China, along with two new species, Linzhiassamia medogensis sp. nov. and Linzhiassamia zayuensis sp. nov. These represents the first records of the family Assamiidae from Xizang. A comparative analysis with other continental Asian Assamiidae is undertaken, with a focus on genital morphology. Potential closest relatives are identified, including the genus Dhaulagirius Martens, 1977 from Nepal.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Two new species of genus Labronema Thorne, 1939 (Nematoda, Dorylaimidae) from natural parks of Vietnam with an identification key to the species with a medium-sized odontostyle
Labronema Thorne, 1939 is a large and diverse dorylaimid genus with complicated taxonomy. Two new species, Labronema porosum sp. nov. and Labronema bidoupense sp. nov. from natural habitats in Vietnam were characterised both morphologically and molecularly (18S rDNA and 28 rDNA), and line drawings and microphotographs are provided. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the new species clustered together with Labronema ferox Thorne, 1939, the type species of the genus. The two new taxa belong to a group of Labronema species with medium body (L = 1.5–2.5 mm) and odontostyle (31–39 μm) length, and a lip region offset by a constriction. Based on morphological and molecular evidence, this study shows that the populations from Vietnam previously identified as L. glandosum Rahman, Jairajpuri, Ahmad & Ahmad, 1986 in fact represent L. porosum sp. nov. Evolutionary relationships of Labronema species are discussed. A key to the species of Labronema with a medium-sized odontostyle (31–39 μm) is provided as well as a list of the species of the genus considered valid.
["Comparative and International Law Studies", "Historical Legal Studies and Society", "Historical Influence and Diplomacy"]

Tenkana, a new genus of jumping spiders (Salticidae, Plexippina) from South Asia, with the new Indian species Tenkana jayamangali
We describe a new plexippine genus, Tenkana gen. nov., supported by phylogenomic data from ultraconserved elements (UCEs), Sanger sequences of four genes, and morphological evidence. The type species, Tenkana manu (Caleb, Christudhas, Laltanpuii & Chitra, 2014), comb. nov. is transferred from Colopsus, as is Tenkana arkavathi (Caleb, 2022), comb. nov. The phylogenomic data places Tenkana among the plexippines near Hyllus C.L. Koch, 1846 and Telamonia Thorell, 1887, while the constrained four-gene phylogeny indicates that Tenkana is distinct from Colopsus. Additionally, we describe a new species, Tenkana jayamangali sp. nov.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Three new species of the genus Rhogadopsis Brèthes (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Opiinae) from South Korea
Three new species of Rhogadopsis Brèthes, 1913 (R. clausulata sp. nov., R. obliqoides sp. nov. and R. setosipunctata sp. nov.) are described and illustrated. Rhogadopsis unicarinata (Fischer, 1959) is a new combination and a new synonym of R. mediocarinata (Fischer, 1963), syn. nov. An identification key to the species of Rhogadopsis known from South Korea is provided.
["Identification"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies"]

Integrative delimitation of a new Epeorus (Caucasiron) (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) from the Caucasus with a supplement to the identification guide of Caucasian and Irano-Anatolian species
As part of our detailed study of the Caucasian mayfly fauna, we describe Epeorus (Caucasiron) abditus sp. nov., a new species of the genus Epeorus Eaton, 1881, subgenus Caucasiron Kluge, 1997, based on larvae collected in Türkiye, Georgia, and Russia. We use several methodological approaches to delimit the new species by analysing COI sequence data and larval morphology. We provide a comparison with related taxa and diagnostic characters allowing determination of the larvae. We also update the identification key for the Caucasian species of E. (Caucasiron) with E. (C.) abditus sp. nov. and two recently described species, E. (C.) hyrcanicus Hrivniak & Sroka, 2021 and E. (C.) tripertitus Hrivniak & Sroka, 2022.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Two new hypogean species of the genus Triplophysa (Osteichthyes, Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae) from Guizhou Province, Southwest China, with underestimated diversity
Two new species of the genus Triplophysa from southwestern Guizhou Province, China, are described. These are Triplophysa ziyunensis Wu, Luo, Xiao & Zhou, sp. nov. and Triplophysa yaluwang Lan, Liu, Zhou & Zhou, sp. nov. from Maoying Town, Ziyun County, Guizhou Province, China. Triplophysa ziyunensis Wu, Luo, Xiao & Zhou, sp. nov. is distinguished from other hypogean species of the genus Triplophysa by having a combination of the following characteristics: body naked, scaleless, pigmented markings on surface of body, except ventral; eyes reduced, diameter 2.4–4.9% of head length; pelvic-fin tip extending to anus; tip of pectoral fin not reaching pelvic fin origin; anterior and posterior nostrils closely set, with anterior nostril elongated to a barbel-like tip; tip of outrostral barbel extending backward, not reaching anterior margin of the eye; lateral line complete; posterior chamber of air bladder degenerated; and fin differences. Triplophysa yaluwang Lan, Liu, Zhou & Zhou, sp. nov. is distinguished from other hypogean species of the genus Triplophysa by having a combination of the following characteristics: body naked, scaleless, with irregular pale and dark brownish brown markings, except ventrally; eyes reduced, diameter 4.6–6.1% of head length; pelvic-fin tip reaching anus; tip of pectoral fin not reaching to pelvic fin origin; anterior and posterior nostrils closely set, with anterior nostril elongated to a barbel-like tip; tip of outrostral barbel extending backward, not reaching to anterior margin of the eye; lateral line complete; posterior chamber of air bladder degenerated; and fin differences. Mitochondrial Cyt b revealed relatively small genetic differences, 1.4–2.0%, between the two new species and close relatives. Nuclear gene RAG1 indicated that the two new species possessed unique haplotypes with multiple linking mutations. This study emphasizes the importance of utilizing nuclear genes to identify new species in rapidly speciation cave species, with small genetic differences due to mitochondrial introgression occurring interspecies.
["Mitochondrial DNA"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

New species and records of limpets (Mollusca, Gastropoda) from the Pacific Costa Rica Margin
The ocean remains a reservoir of unknown biodiversity, particularly in the deep sea. Chemosynthesis-based ecosystems, such as hydrothermal vents and hydrocarbon seeps, host unique and diverse life forms that continue to be discovered and described. The present study focuses on patelliform gastropods (limpets) collected from Pacific Costa Rica Margin hydrocarbon seeps during three research cruises from 2017 to 2019. Genetic and morphological analyses revealed the presence of several new lineages within the genera Bathyacmaea Okutani, Tsuchida & Fujikura,1992, Cocculina Dall, 1882, Paralepetopsis McLean, 1990, and the family Lepetodrilidae McLean, 1988: Bathyacmaea levinae sp. nov., Paralepetopsis variabilis sp. nov., Pseudolepetodrilus costaricensis gen. et sp. nov., and Cocculina methana sp. nov. These investigations also expanded the known ranges of the species Pyropelta corymba McLean, 1992 and Lepetodrilus guaymasensis McLean, 1988 to the Costa Rica Margin. This research highlights the uniqueness of gastropod fauna at the Costa Rica Margin and contributes to our understanding of the biodiversity at chemosynthesis-based deep-sea ecosystems in the face of global biodiversity loss and increased commercial interest in deep-sea resources.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Discovery of a new gall-inducing species, Aciurina luminaria (Insecta, Diptera, Tephritidae) via multi-trait integrative taxonomy
Integrative taxonomic practices that combine multiple lines of evidence for species delimitation greatly improve our understanding of intra- and inter-species variation and biodiversity. However, extended phenotypes remain underutilized despite their potential as a species-specific set of extracorporeal morphological and life history traits. Primarily relying on variations in wing patterns has caused taxonomic confusion in the genus Aciurina, which are gall-inducing flies on Asteraceae plants in western North America. However, species display distinct gall morphologies that can be crucial for species identification. Here we investigate a unique gall morphotype in New Mexico and Colorado that was previously described as a variant of that induced by Aciurina bigeloviae (Cockerell, 1890). Our analysis has discovered several consistent features that distinguish it from galls of A. bigeloviae. A comprehensive description of Aciurina luminaria Baine, sp. nov. and its gall is provided through integrative taxonomic study of gall morphology, host plant ecology, wing morphometrics, and reduced-representation genome sequencing.
["Bigeloviae"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Revision of the Afrotropical genus Protoleptops Heinrich, 1967 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ichneumoninae), with description of a new species from Burundi
This study presents a comprehensive revision of the genus Protoleptops Heinrich, 1967. We describe a new species, P. nyeupe Dal Pos & Di Giovanni, sp. nov., from Burundi, marking the first documented occurrence of an Ichneumoninae species in the country. Additionally, we provide the first diagnostic description of the female P. farquharsoni Heinrich, 1967 and report a new occurrence of this species in KwaZulu-Natal. Furthermore, we document P. magnificus for Mpumalanga (South Africa) and P. angolae Heinrich, 1967 in Uganda, thereby extending the known range of the latter into East Africa. A detailed catalogue of all species within the genus Protoleptops is also included.
["Key words: Biodiversity"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Complementary description of Peltidium nayarit (Copepoda, Harpaticoida, Peltidiidae) and a new record at Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico
Four adult females of a rare benthic/epiphytic harpacticoid copepod species of the genus Peltidium Philippi, 1839 were collected from insular zooplankton samples obtained at Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico. They were identified as Peltidium nayarit Suárez-Morales & Jarquín-González, 2013 with type location (and the single previously known distribution site) at Playa Careyeros (20°46'59.46"N, 105°30'35.48"W), Nayarit, Mexico. We provide a complementary description of this species including new details of antennules, caudal rami, legs 1 and 5, and cuticular ornamentation using scanning electron microscopy observations. Peltidium nayarit has a dark reddish-pink coloration allegedly mimicking the color of the macroalgae where they live, but specimens collected in the present study were obtained from sea surface zooplankton net tows. The record of Peltidium nayarit in the Revillagigedo Islands represents the southwestern-most record of the genus in the Americas and the second record for Mexico.
["Crustacean fauna"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Redescription of Microphysogobio tungtingensis (Nichols, 1926) with the description of a new species of the genus (Cypriniformes, Gobionidae) from southern China
Although Microphysogobio tungtingensis (Nichols, 1926) has been treated valid since it was described, its morphology remains vague, especially when comparing it with another similar species, M. elongatus (Yao & Yang, 1977). In this study, the types of both species were examined and also compared with several lots of specimens from a wide geographical range: there is no significant difference in morphology between them. Additionally, molecular evidence supported by mitochondrial gene sequence also showed low genetic distance in between. Thus, it is suggested that M. elongatus is a junior synonym of M. tungtingensis. While revising these two species, a new species, Microphysogobio punctatus sp. nov., was discovered that has a similar distribution with them both. However, it can be distinguished from its congeners by having a globular or oval shaped posterior air-bladder chamber which length 58.6%–82.8% of eye diameter; a narrow upper jaw cutting edge which less than half mouth width; a slender caudal peduncle with depth 34.6%–48.5% of length; and a six-branched-ray anal fin. This new species also has numerous small black spots on all fins which is also unique. The new species is morphologically and molecularly close to M. bicolor (Nichols, 1930).
["East Asia"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Three new species of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 (Araneae, Sparassidae, Heteropodinae) from Qizimeishan National Nature Reserve of Hubei, China
The Qizimeishan National Nature Reserve is situated in the southwestern region of Hubei Province, adjacent to the northeastern edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. A survey of spiders of this reserve was conducted recently, leading to the discovery of three new species of the genus Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000: P. arcuata Zhang, J. Liu & Hu, sp. nov. (♀), P. qizimeishanensis Zhang, J. Liu & Hu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀) and P. weimiani Zhang, J. Liu & Hu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀). Diagnoses, descriptions, photos, and a distribution map are provided.

Sinocyclocheilus xiejiahuai (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae), a new cave fish with extremely small population size from western Guizhou, China
This study describes a new species, Sinocyclocheilus xiejiahuai sp. nov., discovered within a cave located in Hongguo Town, Panzhou City, Guizhou Province, southwestern China, with the type locality in the Nanpanjiang River basin. Phylogenetic trees reconstructed based on mitochondrial genes show that the new species represents an independent evolutionary lineage with large genetic differences, 1.9%–13.8% in mitochondrial Cyt b, from congeners. Morphologically, this species can be differentiated from the 79 species currently classified under the genus Sinocyclocheilus by several characteristics: absence of horn-like structures and indistinct elevation at the head-dorsal junction, absence of irregular black markings on the body lateral and scaleless, eyes large, eye diameter 13% of head length, dorsal-fin rays, iii, 6½, last unbranched ray strong, with serrations along posterior margin, pectoral-fin rays, i, 13, anal-fin rays, iii, 5, pelvic-fin rays, i, 7, lateral line pores 74, gill rakers well developed, nine on first gill arch, pectoral fins short, tip not reaching to pelvic-fin origin. The number of Sinocyclocheilus species has been increased from 79 to 80 since the description of this new species.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Morphological and molecular characterisation of Mordellistena peloponnesensis Batten, 1980 (Coleoptera, Mordellidae), with first records from Italy and Turkey
Mordellistena peloponnesensis Batten, 1980, previously known from Cyprus and Greece, is reported from Italy and Turkey for the first time. The species is redescribed based on type specimens and additional material from its entire known distributional range. Eighteen DNA barcoding sequences of M. peloponnesensis from Greece, Cyprus, and Italy were generated, and genetic variability across the sampling localities was examined. Three mitochondrial haplotypes were detected within M. peloponnesensis. Specimens from mainland Italy share the same haplotype as those from Rhodes and Cyprus, whereas Sardinian specimens exhibit a distinct haplotype. The third haplotype is represented by one specimen from Cyprus. The DNA barcoding sequences of M. peloponnesensis were compared with those of the morphologically allied M. gemellata Schilsky, 1898, and M. pyrenaea Ermisch, 1966, to reveal the phylogenetic relationships between the species.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Progress or burden? Formal description of every apparently new species available in collections is neither necessary nor useful
A new species of the Sub-Saharan spider genus Quamtana Huber, 2003 is described that has been collected in garden centers in Poland and the UK. Its closest known relative is probably Q. lotzi Huber, 2003, known from Free State Province in South Africa. Working on the premise that placing species in time and space is the fundamental task of taxonomy, and acknowledging that we cannot provide biologically meaningful spatial information for this species, we prefer open nomenclature to make this species known to science without formally describing it, using the unique provisional name Quamtana sp. ZFMK Ar 24490 aff. lotzi. We argue that the judicious use of open nomenclature can serve to improve the quality of species lists, reducing the noise in large-scale analyses of biodiversity data. We expand this argument to ‘fragmentary’ species descriptions in general, such as single-sex descriptions in large genera with many male-only and female-only descriptions. Not every taxonomic act allowed by the Code is necessarily beneficial. Under certain conditions, the informal description of a putatively new species may serve science better than a formal description based on inadequate material or data.
["Alien species"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Limnichthys koreanus, a new species of creediid fish (Teleostei, Acropomatiformes, Creediidae) from Korea
Limnichthys koreanus sp. nov. is described on the basis of the holotype and 11 paratypes from subtidal waters of Seogwipo, Jeju Island, Korea. The new species had previously been regarded as the Northern Hemisphere population of the anti-equatorial L. fasciatus, but molecular analyses of mitochondrial COI and 16S genes recovers deep genetic divergences of 9.4% and 15.0% between the new species and topotypical specimens of L. fasciatus. Limnichthys koreanus sp. nov. is distinguished from all other species of Limnichthys based on the following combination of colouration and morphological characteristics: 38-40 vertebrae; 0–6 dorsal saddles joining mid-lateral stripe; small infraorbital sensory pores; a single median interorbital pore; and well-developed vomerine teeth. Summary characters for comparative congeneric species are provided.
["benthic species"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Review of Asaphes Walker, 1834 (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Asaphesinae) from Xinjiang, China
Four species of the cosmopolitan genus Asaphes Walker, 1834 (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Asaphesinae, family incerta sedis) are recorded from Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, bringing the number of known species in China to eight. In addition to Asaphes suspensus (Nees ab Esenbeck), 1834 and A. vulgaris Walker, 1834, A. fuyunis Li & Zhang, sp. nov. is newly described based on females and A. californicus Girault, 1917, previously known only from North and South America, is newly recorded from China. These four species are differentiated using an integrative taxonomic approach that includes COI barcode data and morphometrics, and are illustrated using macrophotography. Additionally, the 13 described world species of Asaphes are tabulated and females of the eight recognized Chinese species are keyed.
["Asaphes"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of Opsariichthys (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Xenocyprididae) from Southeast China
Opsariichthys iridescens sp. nov. is described from the Qiantang and Oujiang rivers in Zhejiang Province and a tributary of the Yangtze River adjacent to the Qiantang River. It is distinguished from congeners by the following combination of morphological features: no obvious anterior notch on the tip of the upper lip; 45–52 lateral-line scales; 18–21 pre-dorsal scales; two rows of pharyngeal teeth; a maxillary extending to or slightly beyond the vertical anterior margin of the orbit in adult males; a pectoral fin extending to the pelvic fin in adult males; nuptial tubercles on the cheeks and lower jaw of males, which are usually united basally to form a plate; uniform narrow pale pink cross-bars on trunk and two widening significantly on caudal peduncle. Its validity was also supported by its distinct Cyt b gene sequence divergence from all congeners and its monophyly recovered in a Cyt b gene-based phylogenetic analysis.
["Cytochrome b"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A new gorgonian Pseudopterogorgia nanjiensis sp. nov. (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Gorgoniidae) from the Nanji Islands, China
Members of the genus Pseudopterogorgia Kükenthal, 1919 are widely distributed in shallow water of the Indo-West Pacific. During an investigation of benthic biodiversity in the subtidal zone surrounding the Nanji Islands in the East China Sea, two specimens of Pseudopterogorgia were collected and described as a new species based on an integrated morphological-molecular approach. Pseudopterogorgia nanjiensis sp. nov. is most similar to P. fredericki Williams & Vennam, 2001 in the irregular branching form and indistinct scaphoids, but differs by the coenenchymal sclerite content of distinct capstans and a few warty spindles and radiates (vs. mostly warty spindles and a few capstans), and a purplish colony (vs. white, pink to deep rose). Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on the mtMutS-COI gene sequences, delineated a monophyletic clade encompassing all assessed Pseudopterogorgia species. Within this clade, P. nanjiensis sp. nov. showed a close phylogenetic affinity with both P. fredericki and P. australiensis Ridley, 1884.
["Anthozoa"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Four new species of Laelius Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae) from Korea with an updated key to species in the Eastern Palaearctic region
The genus Laelius Ashmead, 1893 (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae) is a cosmopolitan bethylid genus with 68 valid species distributed across most zoogeographic regions worldwide. This taxonomic study on Korean species of Laelius has led to the description of four new species, namely L. afores sp. nov., L. atratus sp. nov., L. sulcatus sp. nov., and L. tricuspis sp. nov. Additionally, illustrations of the diagnostic characteristics of each species are provided, along with an updated key for 11 Laelius species from the Eastern Palaearctic region.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of the rare genus Endogeophilus from southern France, with a key to the European genera of Geophilidae s.l. (Chilopoda)
The geophilid centipede Endogeophilus alberti sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on a single specimen collected from Provence, southern France. It is very similar to E. ichnusae Bonato, Zapparoli, Drago & Minelli, 2016, which is known only from three specimens from south-western Sardinia, and was the only species in the genus Endogeophilus Bonato, Zapparoli, Drago & Minelli, 2016. Both species share a remarkably narrow body, very short setae, and an unusually high number of legs, which are relatively stout. All these traits are rare among geophilids and suggest an endogeic life style. Despite of the very few specimens available for comparison and the difficulties to distinguish inter-specific differences from intra-specific variation, the two species differ at least in the shape of the pretarsi of the second maxillae and the shape of the forcipules. A revised diagnosis of the genus Endogeophilus is also provided, with an identification key to all genera of Geophilidae s.l. recorded so far in Europe, based on selected characters to evaluate without anatomical dissection and illustrated with original pictures.
["Disjunct distribution"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Discovery of a new soft-bodied click-beetle genus from Namibia with a unique morphology leads to a modified diagnosis of Drilini (Coleoptera, Elateridae)
Drilini are soft-bodied predatory click beetles with incompletely metamorphosed females. Approximately 150 described species are distributed in the Afrotropical, Palaearctic and Oriental realms, with the highest diversity known from sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, we describe Namibdrilus albertalleni gen. et sp. nov. from Namibia which brings the total number of genera in Drilini to 16. The discovery of this unique taxon sheds new light on the diversity and evolution of the enigmatic paedomorphic beetle lineage and is interesting for several reasons. This new species is the only known representative of Drilini that has unidentate mandibles and lacks a hook on the dorsal part of the aedeagal median lobe, two of the few characters heretofore used for the unambiguous identification of members of this group. Furthermore, based on its morphology it belongs to a group of genera (Drilus clade) which heretofore contained only taxa from the Palaearctic Realm. We provide an updated diagnosis of the tribe Drilini, as well as an updated diagnosis and an identification key for the genera of the Drilus clade based on adult males. Further, we explain how to easily recognize adult Drilini from similar-looking soft-bodied elateroids like Elateridae: Omalisinae, Rhagophthalmidae, and Lampyridae: Ototretinae.
["Afrotropical Realm"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Old World Micropholcus spiders, with first records of acrocerid parasitoids in Pholcidae (Araneae)
Micropholcus Deeleman-Reinhold & Prinsen, 1987 is one of only two Pholcidae genera known to occur both in the Old and New Worlds. However, there are major morphological and ecological differences among geographically separate groups of species, and it was mainly molecular data that have resulted in our current view of uniting all these species into a single genus. In the Old World, only four species have previously been described. Here, current knowledge about Old World Micropholcus is reviewed, redescribing three of the four previously known species, and describing twelve new species, originating from Saudi Arabia (M. dhahran Huber, sp. nov., M. harajah Huber, sp. nov., M. alfara Huber, sp. nov., M. abha Huber, sp. nov., M. tanomah Huber, sp. nov., M. bashayer Huber, sp. nov., M. maysaan Huber, sp. nov.), Oman (M. darbat Huber, sp. nov., M. shaat Huber, sp. nov.), Morocco (M. ghar Huber, sp. nov., M. khenifra Huber, Lecigne & Lips, sp. nov.), and the Philippines (M. bukidnon Huber, sp. nov.). We provide an exploratory species delimitation analysis based on CO1 barcodes, extensive SEM data, and first records of Acroceridae (Diptera) larvae in Pholcidae, extracted from book lungs.
["CO1 barcode"]

Smooth post-labial chaetae in Homidia (Collembola, Entomobryidae) and the description of four new species from China with the aid of DNA barcoding
Four new species of Homidia are described from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Homidia longiantenna sp. nov. is characterised by its long antenna and slightly expanded post-labial chaetae; H. guangxiensis sp. nov. by the presence of smooth chaetae on the post-labium and posterior face of the ventral tube; H. huapingensis sp. nov. by the presence of smooth post-labial chaetae and pointed tenent hairs; and H. oligoseta sp. nov. by the pointed tenent hairs and fewer macrochaetae on Abdomen IV. Additions to the original description of Homidia acutus Jing & Ma, 2022 are also provided.
["Chaetotaxy"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

First record of Buninotus Maldonado Capriles and B. palikur Castro-Huertas, Forero & Melo from Brazil, with taxonomic notes (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Emesinae) and an updated key to the genera of Saicini of the New World
Buninotus Maldonado Capriles, 1981 and Buninotus palikur Castro-Huertas, Forero & Melo, 2022 (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Emesinae, Saicini) are recorded from Brazil for the first time. Taxonomic notes on Buninotus and its species are provided mainly based on the examination and photographs of the holotype and paratype of Buninotus niger Maldonado Capriles, 1981. Previous doubts on some characteristics of the genus are clarified. A hypothesis suggesting that the holotype and paratype of B. niger may belong to different species is presented. An updated key to the New World genera of Saicini is provided.
["Heteroptera"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Research on scale insects", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new four-pored Amphisbaena Linnaeus, 1758 (Amphisbaenia, Amphisbaenidae) from the north of Espinhaço Mountain Range, Brazil
A new species of Amphisbaena is described from the north of Espinhaço Mountain Range, municipality of Caetité, state of Bahia, Brazil. Amphisbaena amethysta sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) snout convex in profile, slightly compressed not keeled; (2) pectoral scales arranged in regular annuli; (3) four precloacal pores; (4) distinct cephalic shields; (5) 185–199 dorsal half-annuli; (6) 13–16 caudal annuli; (7) conspicuous autotomic site between 4th–6th caudal annuli; (8) 16–21 dorsal and ventral segments at midbody; (9) 3/3 supralabials; (10) 3/3 infralabials; and (11) smooth and rounded tail tip. The new species is the 71st species of genus with four precloacal pores, and the 22nd species from the Caatinga morphoclimatic domain. The identification of Amphisbaena amethysta sp. nov. indicates that the reptile fossorial fauna in the Espinhaço Mountain Range region is far from being completely known and that it may harbour a much greater diversity of endemic taxa.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Melita panda, a new species of Melitidae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from Japan
A new intertidal species of the melitid amphipod, Melita panda, from the Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, is identified and described. Melita panda sp. nov. differs from the similar M. koreana and M. nagatai by its black-and-white body color, well-developed anterodistal projection of the male gnathopod 1 propodus, and telson armature. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on the nuclear 28S rRNA and mitochondrial COI genes support that M. panda sp. nov. is closely related to M. koreana and M. nagatai.
["Intertidal zone"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Four new species of the genus Hendelia Czerny, 1903 (Diptera, Clusiidae) from China
Four new species of the genus Hendelia Czerny, 1903 collected from China, are described as new to science: H. latustigenis sp. nov., H. macrocera sp. nov., H. deltoides sp. nov. and H. flavida sp. nov. An updated key to the species of Hendelia from China is presented.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Description of a new species of Chrysonotomyia Ashmead from Houston, Texas, USA (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae)
A new species of the genus Chrysonotomyia Ashmead, Chrysonotomyia susbelli sp. nov., is described from the Rice University campus in Houston, Texas, USA. The species is a parasitoid emerging from Neuroterus nr. bussae galls in leaves of the southern live oak (Quercus virginiana). This represents the 6th species described from North America north of Mexico and the first in the world known to parasitize cynipid gall wasps. This discovery hints at an entire undiscovered niche between Chrysonotomyia parasitoids, cynipid gall wasps, and oaks in the Nearctic, which is a global biodiversity hotspot for oaks and cynipids. This new species description is complemented by mtDNA-COI-barcode data and information on the natural history of this species. We record host association, phenology, and report a leaf-scanning behavior performed by females, presumably to search for host galls. Modifications to the key of New World members of the genus (Hansson 2004) are included to integrate this new species.
["Cynipidae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Elachista dimicatella sensu auctt.—a complex of neglected species diversity (Lepidoptera, Elachistidae) from European mountain systems
Elachista dimicatella Rebel, 1903, has so far been considered a species in Europe with restricted distribution from Ukraine to western France. The species occurs on mountainous regions. However, the in-depth analysis of a taxonomically uncertain species of Elachista from the Cottian Alps (Italy), especially through DNA barcoding and subsequent morphological studies, led to the realization that individuals previously identified as E. dimicatella from the Cottian Alps and the Pyrenees were misidentified. According to our research, a total of three species can be differentiated: E. dimicatella from Carpathians and its former junior synonym E. niphadophanes Meyrick, 1937, sp. rev., from the Pyrenees, as well as the newly described E. cottiella sp. nov. from southwestern Alps, hitherto incorrectly identified as E. dimicatella. Diagnostic features of the three species are discussed and illustrated. Elachista dimicatella and E. niphadophanes are redescribed.
["Cryptic diversity"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

The genus Platydracus Thomson in Hainan, South China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae)
A study on Platydracus species of Hainan Province, China is presented. Platydracus hainanensis sp. nov., Platydracus aureolus sp. nov. and Platydracus zhouchenglini sp. nov. are described as new species. Platydracus marmorellus Fauvel, 1895 and Platydracus subirideus Kraatz, 1859 are recorded from China for the first time. Habitus and diagnostic characters of all species are photographed, and a key to Platydracus species of Hainan is provided.
["identification key"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

A new toad of Oreolalax Myers & Leviton, 1962 (Anura, Megophryidae) from Sichuan Province, southwest China
A new species of the genus Oreolalax Myers & Leviton, 1962 is described from Sichuan Province, southwest China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial gene sequences clustered the new species as an independent clade nested with O. rugosus, O. liangbeiensis, and O. major. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (39.8–52.8 mm in male); head broad; tympanum absent; interorbital region with dark triangular pattern; 1/3 toes webbed, with broad lateral fringes, belly smooth, brown yellow or medium yellow scattered variable brown spots; skin on dorsum relatively rough with fine tiny and large warts granules; middle pectoral glands are evident in males; flanks with dark-brown warts granules; upper surface of limbs with dark bars; and iris orange above and creamy-white below. The new species inhabits subtropical alpine scrub and swamp.

Molecular and morphological identification of larvae of Carangidae (Teleostei, Carangiformes) species from southern Gulf of California
The description of diagnostic morphological characters and DNA barcoding of fish larvae from nine species of the carangid family are provided from specimens collected during a weekly zooplankton time-series (2016–2017) at Cabo Pulmo National Park, Gulf of California, Mexico. Five nominal species (Caranx sexfasciatus, C. caballus, Naucrates ductor, Selar crumenophthalmus, and Selene peruviana) and three morphotypes of Decapterus spp. and one of Caranx spp. were identified and separated based on morphological, meristic, and pigmentary diagnostic characters. All larvae were genetically sequenced for a fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I mitochondrial gene. Sequences of larval Caranx and Decapterus showed high genetic similarity (> 99%), low intraspecific divergence (< 1%), and an interspecific divergence between 6% and 11%, allowing the discrimination of diagnostic pigmentation patterns of fish larvae among three sibling species from each genus: Caranx (C. caballus, C. caninus, and C. sexfasciatus) and Decapterus (D. macarellus, D. macrosoma, and D. muroadsi). DNA barcoding supported the presence of Caranx caballus, C. caninus, C. sexfasciatus, Decapterus macarellus, D. muroadsi, Selar crumenophthalmus, and Selene peruviana, and for the first time Naucrates ductor and D. macrosoma at the CPNP. Abundance of these nine species (confirmed molecularly) was estimated throughout the 2016–2017 weekly time series. Decapterus macarellus and Caranx caninus were the most abundant species. The morphological and molecular taxonomic methods allowed us to infer the species number and abundance of these commercial species at the CPNP to improve conservation in protected areas and fishery management.
["Caranx"]

A new species and some new distribution records of the genus Apatetica Westwood from China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Apateticinae)
Five species of Apatetica Westwood, 1848 from China are recorded and illustrated: Apatetica angusticollis sp. nov. from Sichuan, A. confusa Assing, 2018 from Yunnan, A. intermedia Cameron, 1930 from Sichuan, A. laevicollis Fauvel, 1904 from Guangdong and Guangxi, and A. sikkimi Fauvel, 1895 from Xizang. The last four are new to China. The new species is described, and a photograph of a living specimen is presented. Apatetica intermedia and A. sikkimi are redescribed and diagnosed. A key to Chinese species of the genus is provided.
["Apateticinae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Integrative taxonomy reveals two new giant pill-millipedes of the genus Zephronia Gray, 1832 from eastern Thailand (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida, Zephroniidae)
A large amount of material of the millipede genus Zephronia Gray, 1832 was collected during 2014–2023 from many parts of eastern Thailand. An integrative study of morphological characters and genetic data (COI gene) revealed two new species: Z. chantaburiensis Srisonchai & Wesener, sp. nov. and Z. macula Srisonchai & Wesener, sp. nov. The two new species clearly differ from other congeners by their unique characteristics, especially in their colour pattern and telopod shape. The interspecific genetic distances of the 658 bp COI gene barcoding fragment between these new species and all other species of giant pill-millipede from Thailand, Laos and Cambodia are 12.01–23.49% for Z. chantaburiensis sp. nov. and 17.93–25.13% for Z. macula sp. nov. While relationships among species remain preliminary, the phylogenetic tree shows that species of Zephronia are interspersed with species of Sphaerobelum Verhoeff, 1924 and Prionobelum Verhoeff, 1924. Phylogenetic analyses place both new species in a clade termed Zephronia s.s., which receives support also from morphological data, showing a unique position of the organ of Tömösváry. Z. macula sp. nov. appears to occur over a broad distribution whereas Z. chantaburiensis sp. nov. was found only at the type locality. Given that all known records are in the eastern part of Thailand, we thus regard both species as endemic. Morphological illustrations based on SEM micrographs and a distribution map are also provided.

The Grumpy dwarfgoby, a new species of Sueviota (Teleostei, Gobiidae) from the Red Sea
A new gobiid species is described from ten specimens, 9.2 – 16.7 mm SL, collected from the Saudi Arabian Red Sea. The new species is most similar to Sueviota pyrios from the Gulf of Aqaba in the northern Red Sea. It differs from S. pyrios by having no large red spots on the dorsal and caudal fin elements, no elongate spines in the first dorsal fin, a shorter pelvic fin that does not reach the anus, branched pectoral fin rays, and a projecting lower jaw. The new species is further distinguished from all its congeners by a complete lack of cephalic sensory canals and pores. Specimens were found in small caves and overhangs at depths between 10 and 53 meters.

Complete mitochondrial genome of Plecia longiforceps Duda, 1933 (Diptera, Bibionidae) and its implications for a phylogeny of the family Bibionidae
Over the past decade, the prevalence of mass outbreaks involving non-native insects has sparked concerns about their potential negative impact on human inhabited areas and local environments. Plecia longiforceps Duda, 1933 (Diptera, Bibionidae) was recently recognized as an invasive pest in South Korea, causing public nuisance through mass outbreaks in the Seoul Metropolitan Area during early summer. In this study, we present the first complete mitochondrial genome of Plecia longiforceps, generated from the PacBio HiFi long-read sequencing data. Notably, the length of the circular genome is found to be larger than any annotated reference sequences of mitochondrial genomes for the infraorder Bibionomorpha, which is attributable to an unusually long A+T rich control region. We conducted a phylogenetic analysis of Bibionomorpha, focusing specifically on the family Bibionidae, using nearly all available mitochondrial genome data to elucidate relationships among genera within Bibionidae. Our phylogeny of Bibionomorpha recovered a strong monophyly of the family Bibionidae and its three subfamilies: Bibioninae (Bibio + Dilophus), Hesperininae (Hesperinus + Penthetria), and Pleciinae (Plecia), corroborating the recently proposed taxonomic classification system of Bibionidae. Furthermore, we discuss evolutionary trends within Bibionidae based on our well-supported higher relationships of the superfamily Bibionoidea.
["Bibionidae"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

New faunistic records of chironomids and phantom midges (Diptera, Chironomidae and Chaoboridae) from Ukraine indicate recent climatic refugia in the Eastern Carpathians
The aquatic insect fauna of the Eastern Carpathians is poorly known, especially in Ukraine. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted faunistic surveys of Chironomidae and Chaoboridae in 2018 and 2021. The study involved sampling of 11 watercourses and 10 mountain lakes situated in the Ukrainian part of the Eastern Carpathians. A total of 101 taxa were identified, including 40 chironomid species and one genus that have been recorded for the first time from Ukraine. The occurrence of one species previously considered as “doubtfully present” in Ukraine was confirmed by this study. One of the two identified phantom midge species, Chaoborus (s. str.) obscuripes (van der Wulp, 1859), is recorded for the first time from Ukraine. The most intriguing records are chironomid species Cricotopus (s. str.) beckeri Hirvenoja, 1973, Eukiefferiella bedmari Vilchez-Quero & Laville, 1987, and Pseudorthocladius (s. str.) berthelemyi Moubayed, 1990. These species have Mediterranean distribution and their occurrence in the Eastern Carpathians could be remains of once-widespread populations that currently survive in the Carpathian refugia due to adverse climatic conditions in the former distribution area. The high number of first records from a relatively small number of sites indicates a great gap in the knowledge of the Ukrainian chironomid fauna.
["climatic relicts"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new species of genus Acrossus Mulsant, 1842 (Scarabaeidae, Aphodiinae, Aphodiini) from South Korea
A new species of the genus Acrossus Mulsant, 1842, Acrossus baei sp. nov. from South Korea, is described and illustrated on the basis of morphology and mitochondrial COI sequences. The species was compared with four related species; Acrossus atratus (Waterhouse, 1875), A. humerospinosus (Petrovitz, 1958), A. luridus (Fabricius, 1775), and A. superatratus (Nomura & Nakane, 1951). The taxonomic status and diagnostic characters of the new species are discussed. A key to species of the genus Acrossus in the Korean Peninsula is given.
["Coleoptera"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new southern Atlantic cryptic marine shrimp species of Acetes (Decapoda, Sergestidae)
A recently published molecular phylogenetic analysis, focusing on selected Western Atlantic subspecies of Acetes americanus Ortmann, 1893 and allies, was inconclusive about relationships among these members. This previous study found three groups that split into two distinct lineages: Acetes americanus (Brazil 1) (= A. americanus sensu stricto) and Acetes americanus (Brazil 2) + A. americanus (USA). Combined morphometry and molecular analyses applied to members of the group Acetes americanus (Brazil 2) revealed a new unidentified species genetically related to the A. americanus representatives. However, at that time, no conclusive morphological characters were found to identify it. In the present study, following an in-depth morphological analysis of specimens from the three groups, including data on the type series and consideration of the subtle distinctions of members of each lineage, morphological features of the reproductive structures (petasma and genital sternite) were found to characterize the new species, which is formally described and named herein.
["Acetes americanus"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new species of karst-dwelling bent-toed gecko of the Cyrtodactylus intermedius group (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from eastern Thailand and the phylogenetic placement of C. intermedius
A new karst-dwelling bent-toed gecko of the Cyrtodactylus intermedius group is described from Khlong Hat District, Sa Kaeo Province, eastern Thailand, based on an integrative taxonomic analysis of genetic data and morphological characteristics. Phylogenetic analyses using the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene revealed that topotypes of C. intermedius were sister to a clade containing C. kulenensis from Cambodia, an unnamed lineage from Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand, and the Khlong Hat lineage described here as Cyrtodactylus khlonghatensis sp. nov. Multivariate analyses of morphometric and meristic characters showed that C. khlonghatensis sp. nov. is morphologically distinct from all other species in the group by having the combination of SVL 76.5–82.8 mm in adult males and 88.5 mm in an adult female; eight supralabial and nine infralabial scales; 30–32 paravertebral tubercles; 20 or 21 longitudinal rows of dorsal tubercles; 43 or 44 ventral scales; seven or eight expanded subdigital lamellae on the 4th toe; 12 unmodified subdigital lamellae on the 4th toe; 19 or 20 total subdigital lamellae on the 4th toe; 31 or 32 total number of enlarged femoral scales; enlarged femoral and precloacal scales continuous; 6–8 pore-bearing precloacal scales in males; three or four rows of enlarged post-precloacal scales; 1–3 postcloacal tubercles; proximal femoral scales less than one-half the size of distal femoral scales; absence of interdigital pocketing between digits of forefeet and hindfeet; and posterior border of the nuchal loop rounded. Uncorrected pairwise genetic divergences (p-distances) between the new species and other species of the intermedius group ranged from 4.73–22.55%. The discovery of this new species exclusively in isolated karst formations from the Thai-Cambodia border suggests that there may be further undiscovered Cyrtodactylus in unexplored karst landscapes along the border of eastern Thailand and western Cambodia.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and animal studies"]

Review of the genus Salicarus (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae)
The genus Salicarus Kerzhner, 1962 is revised, with differential diagnoses and redescriptions provided for nine species. Three distinct species groups were recognized within the genus: S. nitidus group (S. cavinotum, S. genistae, S. nitidus, S. perpusillus), S. roseri group (S. concinnus, S. roseri, S. urnammu), and S. fulvicornis group (S. halimodendri, S. fulvicornis). A key to species, illustrations of dorsal habitus, male and female genitalia, and selected diagnostic structures are included. Additionally, available host information and distributional records are summarized. Phoenicocoris qiliananus Zheng, 1996 is synonymized with Salicarus halimodendri V. G. Putshkov, 1977.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

Taxonomic diversity of amphibians (Amphibia, Anura) and reptiles (Reptilia, Testudines, Squamata) in a heterogeneous landscape in west-central Mexico: a checklist and notes on geographical distributions
In Mexico, land use changes have significantly impacted the diversity of amphibians and reptiles in a negative way. In light of this, we evaluate the alpha and beta components of the taxonomic diversity of amphibians and reptiles in a heterogeneous landscape in west-central Mexico. Additionally, we provide a checklist of amphibian and reptile species recorded over nine years of observations within the studied landscape and surrounding areas. The land cover/use types with the highest species richness and alpha taxonomic diversity differed between amphibians and reptiles. Overall beta taxonomic diversity was high for both groups, but slightly higher in reptiles. This taxonomic differentiation mainly corresponded to a difference in the turnover component and was greater in pristine habitats compared to disturbed ones. The checklist records 20 species of amphibians (ten of which are endemic) and 48 of reptiles (30 endemics). Additionally, the study expands the known geographical distribution range of one species of frog and three species of snakes. Our findings suggest that heterogeneous landscapes with diverse land cover/use types can provide essential habitats for the conservation of amphibian and reptile species.
["Crops"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Further notes on the genus Eurhaphidophora Gorochov, 1999 (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae) with description of a new species from China
This paper revises the genus Eurhaphidophora from China and describes a new species, i.e., Eurhaphidophora dulongjiangensis Zhu & Shi, sp. nov. The females of Eurhaphidophora tarasovi doitungensis Dawwrueng, Gorochov & Suwannapoom, 2020 and Eurhaphidophora fossa Lu, Huang & Bian, 2022 are described for the first time. Moreover, Eurhaphidophora curvata Lu, Huang & Bian, 2022, syn. nov. is considered as a new synonym of Eurhaphidophora pawangkhananti Dawwrueng, Gorochov & Suwannapoom, 2020. Images illustrating the morphology of these species are provided.
["Cave crickets"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Four new species of the genus Yunguirius (Araneae, Agelenidae) from China
Four new species of Yunguirius B. Li, Zhao & S.Q. Li, 2023 are described from China, namely: Yunguirius parvus Wei & Liu, sp. nov. (♀), Yunguirius trigonus Wei & Liu, sp. nov. (♀), Yunguirius wangqiqiae Wei & Liu, sp. nov. (♀), and Yunguirius xiannushanensis Wei & Liu, sp. nov. (♀).

Expanding the knowledge of the bat fauna of the Brazilian Caatinga: new geographical records of molossid bats (Chiroptera, Molossidae) for the Chapada Diamantina region, with taxonomic notes
The Caatinga, an exclusive biome in Brazil, is the largest tropical dry forest area in the Americas. It is characterized by a semi-arid climate and various soils that harbor a great diversity of flora and fauna. Novel records of aerial insectivorous bat species in the family Molossidae in the Chapada Diamantina, northeastern Brazil are presented. The study is based on field sampling of 115 molossid bat specimens from six genera and 12 taxonomically confirmed species, along with four taxa requiring further evaluation for definitive species identification. All specimens were obtained using mist nets around a small freshwater lagoon surrounded by semideciduous dry forest. The verified genera were Cynomops, Eumops, Molossops, Molossus, Neoplatymops, and Nyctinomops. Our findings enhance the understanding of bat diversity in the Brazilian Caatinga, with the first records of Eumops delticus, E. bonariensis, and Molossus currentium. The most abundant species were Molossus rufus, Eumops glaucinus, Cynomops planirostris, Nyctinomops laticaudatus, and Molossus molossus. Previously unreported morphological and morphometric variations for these Caatinga taxa were examined. Additionally, information on sexual dimorphism in craniodental characteristics of Molossops temminckii and variations in the presence of the sagittal crest in Neoplatymops mattogrossensis are provided. Based on the voucher specimens from this study, the recognized number of species of Molossidae known from the Caatinga has increased to 21. Our results offer new insights into the taxonomy and biogeography of Neotropical molossids, highlighting their importance as members of bat communities in dry forest ecosystems from northeastern South America.
["Distributional records"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Description of Nilssondytes diversus gen. et sp. nov. from Venezuela (Coleoptera, Adephaga, Dytiscidae, Cybistrinae)
A new genus, Nilssondytes gen. nov., is described for a unique new species, Nilssondytes diversus sp. nov., from Venezuela. This paper corrects an inadvertent mistake in a paper by the authors (Miller et al. 2024) in which the collection of deposition of the holotype of the species was not indicated making the new species unavailable which, therefore, made the new genus unavailable. A review of the relevant parts of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature is included. Diagnostic features of the new genus and species are discussed and illustrated.
["Diving beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Two new species of Macropelopia (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Oriental China, delineated with morphology and COI sequences
Two new species, Macropelopia (Macropelopia) excavata Xu & Fu, sp. nov. and Macropelopia (Macropelopia) quadrimacula Xu & Fu, sp. nov., are described as male adults. A key to identify the males of Macropelopia from China is provided. Furthermore, in order to ascertain the genetic distance between these species and their morphological characteristics, mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene sequences were uploaded to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. These COI sequences were then utilized to infer the relationships between the species, employing the neighbor-joining method.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

The description of the first rock-dwelling species of butterfly lizard Leiolepis Cuvier, 1829 (Squamata, Agamidae) from the Khorat Plateau in northeastern Thailand
A new species of rock-dwelling Leiolepis is described from the Khorat Plateau in northeastern Thailand. Leiolepis glaurung sp. nov. can be differentiated from all other sexual species of Leiolepis by a combination of having a black gular region with a wide medial yellow stripe, a yellow ventrum with black mottling, bright red to orange subcaudal coloration, having reduced to no expandable flanks, and having only one black transverse bar on the flanks. This is the first rocky habitat-adapted Leiolepis. Leiolepis glaurung sp. nov. demonstrates numerous ecological adaptations to survive in these rocky habitats. Leiolepis are known for their expandable flanks with bright display colors, however Leiolepis glaurung sp. nov. has reduced or no ability to expand its flanks. We hypothesize this is an adaptation to reduce their body diameter to better fit into smaller rocky burrows unlike the larger and deeper burrows constructed in looser soils by other Leiolepis species. This discovery increases the number of Leiolepis species in Thailand to six, and worldwide to 11.
["Conservation"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

Two new species and a new record of the ant genus Meranoplus Smith, 1853 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) from Thailand
Meranoplus Smith, 1853 is distributed in the Old World tropics, from Africa, Asia, New Guinea to Australia. There are four species Meranoplus bicolor (Guérin-Méneville, 1844), M. castaneus Smith, 1857, M. laeviventris Emery, 1889, and M. mucronatus Smith, 1857 previously recorded from Thailand. In the present paper, two new species of the genus, M. siamensis Yodprasit & Jaitrong, sp. nov. and M. tanomtongi Yodprasit & Jaitrong, sp. nov., are described based on the worker caste. Additionally, M. malaysianus Schödl, 1998 is recorded for the first time for Thailand. A key to the Oriental and Indo-Australian species, based on the worker caste, is provided. The new species and the new record were found to nest in soil.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Morphological and molecular data warrant the description of a new species of the genus Scutiger (Anura, Megophryidae) from the Central Himalaya
Recent phylogenetic studies in Himalayan lazy toads of the genus Scutiger Theobald, 1868 revealed the presence of genetically deeply divergent lineages. The taxonomy of S. nepalensis sensu lato was re-assessed based on museum material considering molecular and morphological data. The results strongly support the recognition of a new species, S. kanjiroba sp. nov. distributed along the Nepalese Kanjiroba massif. It is further shown that S. sikimmensis has an apparently much more restricted distribution range than previously thought. The frequent misidentification of Scutiger across large areas of the Himalaya-Tibet area highlights the significance of careful taxonomic evaluation of collection material and the need for the direct morphological comparison of closely related species when describing new species.
["Genetics"]

Four new earthworm species of the genera Amynthas and Metaphire (Oligochaeta, Megascolecidae) from Hunan and Anhui provinces, China
This paper describes four new species earthworms from Hunan and Anhui provinces, China, Amynthas xiangtanensis Qiu & Jin, sp. nov., Amynthas taoyuanensis Qiu & Jin, sp. nov., Amynthas xuanchengensis Jin & Li, sp. nov. and Metaphire donganensis Jin & Jiang, sp. nov. Amynthas xiangtanensis sp. nov., and A. taoyuanensis sp. nov. belong to the Amynthas corticis group. Both have four pairs of intersegmental spermathecal pores in 5/6–8/9; male pores in segment XVIII, separated by 1/3 of body circumference, each on top of a slightly raised porophore, surrounded by several tiny genital papillae. Amynthas taoyuanensis sp. nov. prostate glands are degenerated. Amynthas xuanchengensis sp. nov. belongs to the Amynthas morrisi group, it has two pairs of spermathecal pores in 5/6 and 6/7; male pores in XVIII, separated by 1/3 of body circumference, each on top of a slightly raised, circular porophore. Metaphire donganensis sp. nov. belongs to the Metaphire houlleti group. It has three pairs of spermathecal pores in 6/7–8/9; male pores in XVIII, separated by 1/3 of body circumference, each on the bottom center of the longitudinal copulatory chamber.
["Barcode"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of the genus Serangium Blackburn (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from China, with description of the immature stages
A new species Serangium xinpingensis Huang & Wang, sp. nov. is described from Yunnan Province, China, as a newly discovered predator on Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha, Aleyrodidae). The new species is a valuable addition to the 14 species of this genus in China known before. A diagnosis, detailed description, including the structure of its immature stages, illustrations, and the distribution of the new species are provided.
["Coccinelloidea"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Altimella gen. nov., a new genus of Cicurinidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from Xizang, China, with description of two new species
Altimella Wang & Zhang, gen. nov., a new genus belonging to Cicurinidae, is established, and two new species are described, Altimella nedong Wang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀, type species) and A. ngamring Wang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀), from Xizang, China. Detailed descriptions of somatic features and genital characteristics, photos of the habitus, photos and drawings of the copulatory organs, and a distribution map are provided.
["description"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Two new species of freshwater goby (Teleostei, Gobiidae) from the Upper Youshui River, Chongqing, China
Two previously unknown species of Rhinogobius have been discovered in the streams of the Upper Youshui River, within the Yuan River Basin, Xiushan County, Chongqing, China. These new species are named as Rhinogobius sudoccidentalis and Rhinogobius lithopolychroma. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial genomes revealed that R. sudoccidentalis is genetically closest to R. reticulatus, while R. lithopolychroma shares the greatest genetic similarity with R. leavelli. Morphological distinctions allow for the clear differentiation of these species. Rhinogobius sudoccidentalis sp. nov. is characterized by having VI–VII rays in the first dorsal fin and I, 8–9 rays in the second dorsal fin. The longitudinal scale series typically consists of 22–24 scales, while the transverse scale series comprises 7–8 scales. Notably, the predorsal scale series is absent and the total vertebrae count is 12+17=29. Rhinogobius lithopolychroma sp. nov. can be distinguished from other species by the presence of 13–15 rays on the pectoral fin. Its longitudinal scale series ranges from 30 to 33 scales, with no scales in the predorsal area. The total vertebral count is 30, with 12 precaudal and 18 caudal vertebrae. The head and body of this species are light gray with irregular orange markings on the cheeks and opercle. Through morphological and molecular analyses, it has been confirmed that R. lithopolychroma and R. sudoccidentalis represent novel species within the Rhinogobius genus.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Two new species of the family Aoridae (Crustacea, Malacostraca, Amphipoda) from Korean waters
Two new species of the family Aoridae, one from the genus Aoroides Walker, 1898, and other from the genus Grandidierella Coutière, 1904, are reported from Korean waters. Aoroides gracilicrus sp. nov. is similar to A. longimerus in having numerous plumose setae on the basis and carpus of gnathopod 1. However, the new species can be distinguished from A. longimerus by the numerous plumose setae on the bases of pereopods 3 and 4 and the slender basis of pereopod 7. Grandidierella naroensis sp. nov. is morphologically most similar to G. pseudosakaensis. However, the new species can be distinguished by the presence of small distal and proximal processes and a large middle process on the carpus of gnathopod 1, and the subovate propodus of gnathopod 1. Both new species are illustrated and compared to related species. A key to species in the family Aoridae from Korean waters is also provided.
["Amphipod"]

Four new species of the spider genus Liphistius (Araneae, Mesothelae, Liphistiidae, Liphistiinae) from Myanmar
Four new species of Liphistius belonging to the birmanicus species group are described from Myanmar based on both sexes: L. kalaw Zhan & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀), L. kanpetlet Zhan & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀), L. nawngau Zhan & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀) and L. rostratus Zhan & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀). Currently, Myanmar stands as the westernmost country where Liphistius is distributed, with the new species L. kanpetlet sp. nov. being found in the westernmost region of Myanmar.
["description"]

Discovery of a new tarantula species from the Madrean Sky Islands and the first documented instance of syntopy between two montane endemics (Araneae, Theraphosidae, Aphonopelma): a case of prior mistaken identity
The Chiricahua Mountains in southeastern Arizona are renowned for their exceptional biodiversity and high levels of endemism. Morphological, genomic, behavioral, and distributional data were used to report the discovery of a remarkable new tarantula species from this range. Aphonopelma jacobii sp. nov. inhabits high-elevation mixed conifer forests in these mountains, but also co-occurs and shares its breeding period with A. chiricahua—a related member of the Marxi species group—in mid-elevation Madrean evergreen oak and pine-oak woodlands. This marks the first documented case of syntopy between two montane endemics in the Madrean Archipelago and adds to our knowledge of this threatened region’s unmatched tarantula diversity in the United States. An emended diagnosis and redescription for A. chiricahua are also provided based on several newly acquired and accurately identified specimens. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial and genomic-scale data reveal that A. jacobii sp. nov. is more closely related to A. marxi, a species primarily distributed on the Colorado Plateau, than to A. chiricahua or the other Madrean Sky Island taxa. These data provide the evolutionary framework for better understanding the region’s complex biogeographic history (e.g., biotic assembly of the Chiricahua Mountains) and conservation of these spiders.
["Biodiversity hotspot"]

New records and revised distribution of tiger beetles in China (Coleoptera, Cicindelidae)
Based on the examination of specimens housed in several scientific collections, we expand the known tiger beetle fauna of China, and eight species are recorded from China for the first time. The occurrence of Cicindela (Cicindela) sachalinensis raddei Morawitz, 1863 in Shanxi Province, and Neocollyris (Neocollyris) saphyrina (Chaudoir, 1850) in China are re-established. We provide distribution maps and habitus photographs of examined specimens for the newly recorded and revised species. We also discuss potential research hotspots for future taxonomic studies of tiger beetles in China.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Taxonomic review of Amemboa Esaki, 1925 from China, with description of a new species (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Gerridae)
The species of Amemboa Esaki, 1925 from China are reviewed. Amemboa hainanica sp. nov., is described from Hainan Island, and Amemboa burmensis J. Polhemus & Andersen, 1984 is newly recorded from China. Additionally, diagnoses and new distribution records are provided for six species previously reported from China: A. brevifasciata Miyamoto, 1967, A. cristata J. Polhemus & Andersen, 1984, A. esakii J. Polhemus & Andersen, 1984, A. fumi Esaki, 1925, A. riparia J. Polhemus & Andersen, 1984, and A. speciosa J. Polhemus & Andersen, 1984. Photographs and line drawings of the habitus, the diagnostic characteristics of males, in-situ habitus, and their habitats are presented. A key and a distribution map are also provided for species of Amemboa occurring in China.
["Amemboa"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

Three new spider species of Belisana Thorell, 1898 (Araneae, Pholcidae) from karst caves, with a list of Belisana species from Guangxi, China
Three new species of the genus Belisana Thorell, 1898 are described from karst caves in Guangxi, China: Belisana langping Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), B. lingui Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), and B. tianyang Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀). In addition, a list of all Belisana species from Guangxi is also provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Description of five larvae of the genus Gnaptorina Reitter, 1887 from Xizang, China (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Blaptinae), with molecular species delimitation and diagnoses
With 39 described species in three subgenera, the Gnaptorina is the second most species-rich genus in the subtribe Gnaptorinina (Tenebrionidae: Blaptinae). In this study, a phylogeny of Gnaptorina was reconstructed based on one nuclear (28S-D2) and three mitochondrial (COI, Cytb, and 16S) gene fragments; multiple molecular species delimitation approaches were also implemented to assess the taxonomic status of larval specimens based on COI gene fragment. Larvae of five known species of the subgenus Hesperoptorina are described and illustrated for the first time: Gnaptorina nigera Shi, Ren & Merkl, 2007, Gnaptorina tishkovi Medvedev, 1998, Gnaptorina brucei Blair, 1923, Gnaptorina himalaya Shi, Ren & Merkl, 2007, Gnaptorina kangmar Shi, Ren & Merkl, 2007. A key to larvae of four genera of the tribe Blaptini and a key to the known larvae of the genus Gnaptorina are provided. This study provides valuable morphological data for larval studies of the tribe Blaptini.
["Beetles"]

Delimitation of the widely distributed Palearctic Stenodema species (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae): insights from molecular and morphological data
Species delimitation presents a significant challenge in biology, particularly in systematics. Here, an integrative approach is employed to assess the species boundaries of widely distributed Palearctic Stenodema species. Due to their diversity, wide distribution, and the absence of comprehensive morphological and molecular data for most species, revising Stenodema is both daunting and time-consuming. Our study focuses on detailed examinations of male and female genitalia, coupled with phylogenetic analyses based on two mitochondrial markers (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and 16S rRNA) and species delimitation analyses. Eight species with wide distributions are reviewed, Stenodema trispinosa Reuter, 1904 is synonymized with S. pilosa (Jakovlev, 1889), and a lectotype for Stenodema turanica Reuter, 1904 is designated. Morphological and molecular data effectively distinguish all species, revealing distinct clades and relationships. Notably, S. calcarata and S. pilosa form a well-supported clade, while S. virens and S. turanica share a lineage with Nearctic species. Stenodema rubrinervis and S. sibirica are morphologically similar and form a distinct clade in all phylogenies. Species delimitation analyses confirm the separation of all studied species, and genetic distances suggest the potential existence of cryptic species within S. calcarata and S. pilosa. This study highlights the advantages of integrative taxonomy in delimiting species with intricate and relatively recent phylogeographic histories.
["Holarctic"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

The jumping plant-lice (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) in Urban Green Spaces of Bogotá (Colombia), with descriptions of two new species and redescription of Mastigimas colombianus Burckhardt, Queiroz and Drohojowska
In a survey of the arthropod fauna of 33 Urban Green Spaces (UGS) in Bogotá, Colombia, between 2017 and 2019, 21 species (3,825 specimens) of Psylloidea were collected. These represent all seven recognised families of jumping plant-lice and include seven species identified only to genus. The specimens, all adults, were collected on 30 plant species used for arborization in the UGS. Two species are described as new (Mastigimas longicaudatus Rendón-Mera, Burckhardt & Vargas-Fonseca, sp. nov. and Leuronota albilinea Rendón-Mera, Burckhardt & Vargas-Fonseca, sp. nov.), one species is redescribed (Mastigimas colombianus Burckhardt, Queiroz & Drohojowska) and one species is recorded for the first time from Colombia (Calinda trinervis Olivares & Burckhardt). Among the seven species identified only to genus is an undescribed species of Melanastera, representing a genus not previously known from Colombia. Fourteen species found during the survey are probably native (66%) and seven (33%) adventive. Our findings highlight the significance of UGS for preservation of biological diversity and stress the importance of using native plants in urban landscape planning for the conservation of the native entomofauna.
["Plant and animal studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

Systematics and biogeography of Appalachian Anillini, and a taxonomic review of the species of South Carolina (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae, Anillini)
In the eastern United States, 74 species of Anillini in two genera have been described, with most belonging to Anillinus Casey. Until now, no systematic framework has existed for this large genus, hampering integrative studies. Using DNA sequences from 101 Nearctic species, we present a well-resolved molecular phylogeny supporting a sound systematic framework. Sixteen species groups of Appalachian Anillinus are diagnosed, in part using newly recognized variation in the number of modified male protarsi and the state of the spermathecal duct. We present the first descriptions of Nearctic anilline larvae, which possess none of the synapomorphies of previously described anilline larvae. Within Anillinus, two major clades are mostly consistent with setation of the right paramere: a “hairy clade” with more than four setae, and a “quadrisetose clade.” Throughout the phylogeny, microhabitat use varies within each clade, and several endogean lineages are phylogenetically isolated. Our work increases the South Carolina fauna by nearly five-fold. Nine new species are described, Serranillus monadnock sp. nov., Anillinus castaneus sp. nov., Anillinus choestoea sp. nov., Anillinus dentatus sp. nov., Anillinus jancae sp. nov., Anillinus mica sp. nov., Anillinus micamicus sp. nov., Anillinus seneca sp. nov., and Anillinus simplex sp. nov. Several species are newly reported from South Carolina, bringing the total to 20 described species representing seven species groups. Two endemic groups inhabit deep clay soils in the Piedmont and possess unique male sexual characters. The Anillini are a unique component of Nearctic biodiversity, with great potential as a model system for studies of biogeography, secondary male sexual modification, and endogean adaptations.
["Evolution"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Caligus selenecola sp. nov. (Siphonostomatoida, Caligidae) parasitic on the hairfin lookdown Selene brevoortii (Gill) from the Gulf of California, Mexico, with some comments on Caritus tolii Rangnekar, 1984
Specimens of a caligid copepod (Siphonostomatoida) were found on the gills of the hairfin lookdown Selene brevoortii (Gill) (Carangidae) from off Mazatlán, Sinaloa (north-western Mexico). This material represents a new species of Caligus, C. selenecola sp. nov., and is assigned to the diaphanus species group. Within this group, only C. kapuhili Lewis, 1967, C. laticaudus Shiino, 1960, C. macrurus Heller, 1865, and C. selenecola sp. nov., have been described with a reduced outer spine 1 on the second exopodal segment of leg 1. These four species can be readily separated by the relative length of the abdomen, and the presence/absence of a process on the myxal area of the female maxilliped, the sternal furca, the postantennal process, and the spiniform process on the basal antennary segment. A full description of the new species is given with some comments on Caritus tolii Rangnekar, 1984.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

A description of a new species of Mongolodiaptomus Kiefer, 1937 (Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae) from Thailand with an up-to-date key to the genus
The genus Mongolodiaptomus is widely distributed in stagnant water bodies in Southeast Asia. During a comprehensive collection of freshwater copepods from different areas in Thailand, a previously unknown species of calanoid copepod, Mongolodiaptomus phutakaensis sp. nov., was recorded. Representatives were found in a natural swamp located in the Kok Phutaka community forest in Khon Kaen Province, northeastern Thailand. The new species belongs to the “M. loeiensis species group” and most closely resembles M. loeiensis and M. mekongensis by having a distinct shape of the second exopodal segment of the male right P5, with enlarged proximal and distal parts of the outer margin as well as a bent and twisted principal lateral spine. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by various characters in the males. The ventral surface of the right caudal ramus has two chitinous teeth and two knobs. The intercoxal plate is slightly produced distally and without any spine. The right P5 basis lacks a hyaline membrane on the inner margin but has a distinct spur-like chitinous process at the mid-distal margin on the posterior surface. The left P5 basis has a thin, longer hyaline lamella on the inner margin. The new species is rare, having been observed in only one out of approximately 5,000 surveyed locations in Thailand. A detailed morphological comparison and an up-to-date key to the Mongolodiaptomus species are presented. Their taxonomic characters, interspecies relationships, and biogeography are discussed.
["Aquatic habitats"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

First report of albinism for Achalinus sheni (Serpentes, Xenodermidae), with extended diagnosis of the species
Albinism is an uncommon phenomenon and inherited condition in animals characterized by a partial or complete lack of melanin. The family Xenodermidae Gray, 1849, is a group of caenophidian snakes widely distributed in South, East, and Southeast Asia, including five recognized genera and 36 species. However, there are currently no reports of albinism in any species in Xenodermidae. Achalinus sheni Ma, Xu, Qi, Wang, Tang, Huang & Jiang, 2023 was first described based on five male specimens from Loudi City and Nanyue District, Hunan Province, China. At the time, there were no descriptions on female individuals. In this study, we report in detail a collected albinistic specimen of A. sheni, which is the first discovery of wild albinism in the family Xenodermidae. We also provide photographs and descriptions of the first three female specimens of A. sheni and extend the diagnosis of this species.
["Hunan Province"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

A new species of the newt genus Hypselotriton (Amphibia, Urodela, Salamandridae) from Jiangxi Province, southeastern China
A new newt species, Hypselotriton huanggangensis sp. nov., is described based on nine specimens collected from Huanggangshan Mountains, Yanshan County, Jiangxi, China. Morphologically, the new species is characterized by the combination of nine external characters: (1) obvious black patches with clear boundaries on the whole body; (2) ground color of the dorsal body tan; (3) ground color of venter bright orange; (4) skin rough; (5) vertebral ridge weak; (6) fingers and toes overlapping when forelimb and hindlimb adpressed towards each other along body; (7) postocular orange spot absent; (8) small white warty glands around the eye; (9) two discontinuous longitudinal lines formed by white warty glands from neck to lateral parts of tail. Molecularly, the new species forms an independent clade with strong support in the phylogenetic trees of the genus based on the mitochondrial locus of NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene fragments. The new species distinctly differs from H. fudingensis by differences in its body measurements, vertebral ridge, dorsal black patches, and ventral black patches. Furthermore, the new species and H. fudingensis are geographically isolated by a series of high mountain ranges, including the Wuyishan and Jiufengshan Mountains. The number of Hypselotriton species is now 11.
["Black patches"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Two new species of Landouria Godwin-Austen, 1918 (Gastropoda, Camaenidae) from Thailand, with a key to Thai species
The present work contains descriptions of two new species of Landouria and a key to Thai species of this genus. Landouria bella sp. nov. is described from isolated limestone hills in Ratchaburi and Phetchaburi provinces, western Thailand. This new species is characterized by its small depressed-globose shell without a peripheral keel, the presence of a small, thin lamella on the columellar side of the inner aperture, a long, cylindrical distally bent flagellum, a short penis with a rounded verge, and a short, thick free oviduct and vagina. The second new species, Landouria monodon sp. nov. is described from sandstone hills in Kalasin Province, northeastern Thailand. This species has a depressed-conic shell with a blunt peripheral keel, a thick prominent lamella on the columellar side of the inner aperture, a short, finger-shaped, distally bent flagellum, and a long penis with a small, short verge.
["Aegistini"]

Preliminary study of marine sponges (Porifera) in the littoral of Spermonde Archipelago, Indonesia
Previous ecological studies show higher sponge diversity in the Spermonde Archipelago, SW Sulawesi, Indonesia, compared to the World Porifera Database. This study aims to provide an updated checklist of sponges of the Spermonde Archipelago, focusing particularly on the littoral area. Systematic sampling was executed through several observations, with roving techniques, e.g., snorkeling and SCUBA diving. In situ photographs of living sponges were taken using an underwater digital camera. Some specimens were collected and stored at the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden. Fragments of samples were analyzed using light and scanning electron microscopy. A total of 27 sponges (Calcarea and Demospongiae) were catalogued from the littoral area of the Spermonde Archipelago. Some of these are new records for the Sulawesi Sea/Makassar Strait marine ecoregion, including four potentially novel taxa. Preliminary morphological descriptions of all examined samples are presented. This study highlights the sponge assemblage flourishing in a shallow area characterized by a paucity of live corals and a predominant environment by macroalgae, rocks, and rubble.
["Calcarea"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

Two new species of the genus Halichoanolaimus (Nematoda, Selachinematidae) from the intertidal zone of the Yellow Sea, China
Two new marine nematode species belonging to the genus Halichoanolaimus from the intertidal zone of the Yellow Sea are described. Halichoanolaimus sinensis sp. nov. is characterized by amphideal fovea with 2.5–3.0 turns, 20–27% of corresponding body diameters; spicules curved, middle portion broad, tapering distally, 1.4–1.5 cloacal body diameters long; gubernaculum slender consisting of two detached lateral pieces tapering distally; 10–13 papilliform precloacal supplements in two groups, the posterior three supplements smaller and closer to each other, the remaining supplements larger and widely spaced; tail conico-cylindrical with a half cylindrical portion. The second new species, Halichoanolaimus zhangi sp. nov. is distinct by having lateral differentiation present except in anterior half of pharynx which has even punctations, amphideal fovea with 3.0–3.3 turns, spicules curved, gradually narrowing from proximal to distal end with pointed tip, 7 papilliform precloacal supplements, gradually increasing the spacing distance forward, two rows of subventral conical setae situated at the precloacal region, tail elongated, filiform. An updated key to 30 valid species of Halichoanolaimus is provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Resolution of the Aleiodes seriatus (Herrich-Schäffer, 1838)-aggregate in the western Palaearctic (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Rogadinae), with description of a new species
Two European species are recognised and characterised within the traditional Aleiodes seriatus species concept, based initially on DNA barcoding but with supporting, although slight and sometimes unreliable, morphological differences. Aleiodes pseudoseriatus sp. nov. is described and a neotype is designated for Rogas seriatus Herrich-Schäffer, 1838. Specimens from the Russian Far East were also DNA barcoded and were found to belong to a new species distinct from the two European taxa. The two European species were found to use different lithosiine hosts.
["Aleiodes pseudoseriatus sp. nov."]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Contributions on a small collection of the former Subulinidae Fischer & Crosse, 1877 (Eupulmonata, Achatinoidea) with catalogue of the Glessula and Rishetia species recorded from Myanmar
The taxonomy of subulinid snails in Myanmar has been evaluated, resulting in the recognition of 40 species and subspecies across nine genera: Allopeas, Bacillum, Curvella, Glessula, Opeas, Paropeas, Rishetia, Tortaxis, and Zootecus. Nine species are re-described based on recently collected specimens, and two new species, Glessula mandalayensis Man & Panha, sp. nov. from Mandalay Region and Tortaxis cylindropsis Man & Panha, sp. nov. from Shan State are introduced. The genitalia and radula of Zootecus pullus was studied for the first time. This study also presents a comprehensive list of all subulinid species recorded to date from Myanmar. The type specimens and authenticated museum specimens have been illustrated with accompanying taxonomic remarks and nine species formerly assigned in Glessula are now placed in Rishetia: R. akouktoungensis, R. baculina, R. basseinensis, R. burrailensis maxwelli, R. kentungensis, R. limborgi, R. nathiana, R. pertenuis, and R. pertenuis major.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Dickyyuella argentinensis a tentative new genus and species of Cardiochilinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from the Neotropical region
Dickyyuella Kang & Sharkey, gen. nov. is a novel addition to the microgastroid complex of Braconidae. Taxonomic assignment within this complex posed challenges initially due to the presence of putatively plesiomorphic characters. However, closer examination revealed affiliations with the microgastroid complex, supported by morphological features such as the location of spiracles on the first metasomal tergum and the absence of spiracles on the seventh metasomal tergum. Based on the following two morphological characters, the presence of an inverted Y-shaped groove on the first metasomal tergum and pectinate tarsal claws, Dickyyuella Kang & Sharkey, gen. nov. is tentatively placed within Cardiochilinae Ashmead, 1900 despite uncertainties surrounding phylogenetic relationships. This article provides the diagnosis of Dickyyuella Kang & Sharkey, gen. nov., the description of Dickyyuella argentinensis Kang & Sharkey, sp. nov., and a discussion of the taxonomic placement of the new genus within the microgastroid complex.
["Argentina"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

New species and a fascinating diversity of Chironomidae (Diptera, Insecta) in and around an overlooked urban vernal pool
In this study, the biodiversity of Chironomidae was investigated in Palmer Park Pond A, an urban vernal pond in Detroit, Michigan, USA. This study is developed as part of our ongoing Public Environmental Outreach Program at the Detroit Exploration and Nature Center in Palmer Park. Twenty-one Chironomidae species were discovered in and on the adjacent riparian vegetation of this pond using molecular and morphological methods. Three species Bryophaenocladius palmerparcum Namayandeh & Hudson sp. nov., Limnophyes stagnum Namayandeh, Guerra & Ram sp. nov., and Rheocricotopus (s. s.) angustus Namayandeh & Hudson sp. nov. are new to science. Bryophaenocladius palmerparcum sp. nov. and L. stagnum sp. nov. are unusual Orthoclads, with B. palmerparcum sp. nov. possessing a setose, short, and wide anal point and L. stagnum sp. nov. lacking lanceolate setae on both sexes. Based on the shape of superior volsella, R. angustus sp. nov., belongs to the effusus group, which was also confirmed by DNA barcoding molecular analysis. In this study, a new faunistic record was also found for the Nearctic as well as four new faunistic records for the state of Michigan. Ephemeral aquatic habitats such as vernal pools are often overlooked or destroyed by urbanization activities, controlling vector species, creating groomed fields, and/or residential development. Therefore, finding these new species demonstrates the biodiversity value of vernal ponds as important habitats, further motivating us to preserve them.
["Bryophaenocladius"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Five alien achatinid land snails (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata) first reported in greenhouses of Italian botanical gardens
Plant trade and exchange for horticulture, recreation or research play a significant role in the dispersal of molluscs. Alien slugs and snails accidentally introduced into Europe have established rich communities in several countries, but although these introductions could have ecological and economic implications, mollusc xenodiversity in Italian botanical gardens, plant nurseries, and greenhouses has never been investigated. Facilities throughout the country were therefore visited between 2017 and 2023. Here the list of the achatinoidean species so far recorded from Italian greenhouses is provided, giving a short description of their diagnostic characters. The greenhouses of Trento and Padua host interesting assemblages of achatinoideans: the results of this study include the first reports of four achatinids, namely Allopeas clavulinum, Opeas hannense, Paropeas achatinaceum and Subulina octona from Italy and the first record of Geostilbia aperta from Europe. Reproductive anatomy of all species except Geostilbia aperta is illustrated in detail, integrating anatomical knowledge of this group of tiny molluscs, some of which are known mainly from their shell characters. The systematics of all the species is discussed, highlighting topics for future research (e.g., status of Allopeas mauritianum, real identity of Helix hannense, anatomy of Opeas hannense, species-level taxonomy of Subulina, systematic relationships and species-level taxonomy of Geostilbia).
["Geographical distribution"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Four new species of the genus Camptoscaphiella Caporiacco, 1934 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Xizang, China
Four new species of the genus Camptoscaphiella Caporiacco, 1934 are described from Xizang, China, i.e., C. metok Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂), C. shannan Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. trifoliata Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and C. zayu Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). Morphological descriptions, photographic illustrations and a distribution map of the four new species are given.

Taxonomic and nomenclatural reassessment of the Iberian Peninsula’s nomina obscura, Scolopendra viridipes Dufour, 1820 and S. chlorotes L. Koch in Rosenhauer, 1856 (Chilopoda, Scolopendromorpha, Scolopendridae)
The taxonomic identities of the two largely neglected Scolopendra Linnaeus, 1758 species from continental Spain, S. viridipes Dufour, 1820 and S. chlorotes L. Koch in Rosenhauer, 1856, are examined in this paper. After efforts in locating both species’ type series in eight European institutions, the specimens are considered to be lost. Consequently, the identifications of both taxa were approximated by collating their descriptions with the morphology of all other sympatric Scolopendromorpha. Then, compatible topotypes for both species were collected, and among these a neotype for each taxon were selected and compared with the type series of their respective closest relatives. Finally, both S. viridipes and S. chlorotes are proposed to be conspecific with S. oraniensis Lucas, 1846. Therefore, the name S. viridipes is here established as (senior) syn. nov. and nomen oblitum of S. oraniensis, S. oraniensis is declared as nomen protectum, and S. chlorotes (junior) syn. nov. is reallocated to S. oraniensis. Moreover, the specimens making up the type series of S. oraniensis are also indicated and redescribed, the genitalia are illustrated for the first time, and its specific epithet is briefly reviewed, remaining unaltered in respect of its original spelling.
["Chilopoda"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Revision of the Oriental species of the hoverfly genus Paramixogaster Brunetti, 1923 (Diptera, Syrphidae, Microdontinae)
The species of the hoverfly genus Paramixogaster Brunetti, 1923 from the Oriental Region are revised. The resulting number of valid species is 15, of which the following four are described as new: P. halmaherensis Reemer, sp. nov., P. jubata Reemer, sp. nov., P. kodaiana Sankararaman & Reemer, sp. nov., and P. sulawesiana Reemer, sp. nov. Three new synonymies are established: Paramicrodon decipiens de Meijere, 1917, syn. nov. is a junior synonym of Microdon vespiformis de Meijere, 1908; Paramixogaster wegneri Keiser, 1964, syn. nov. is a junior synonym of Ceratophya indica Doleschall, 1857; Microdon subpetiolatus Thompson, 2020, syn. nov. is a junior synonym of Microdon contractus Brunetti, 1923. Paramixogaster huoi Reemer, nom. nov. is introduced as a replacement name for P. trifasciatus Huo & Zhao, 2022, which is a primary homonym of P. trifasciatus Ssymank & Reemer, 2016. Neotypes are designated for Paramixogaster icariiformis Pendlebury, 1927 and Myxogaster variegata Sack, 1922, and a lectotype is designated for Microdon vespiformis de Meijere, 1908. An identification key to the species and diagnoses for all species are provided.
["Ant flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology"]

First record of Orthohalarachne attenuata in Arctocephalus australis in mainland Argentina (Parasitiformes, Mesostigmata, Dermanyssoidea, Halarachnidae) with observations on its ambulacral morphology
Pinniped respiratory mites of the species Orthohalarachne attenuata have been recorded from various locations around the world but not from continental Argentina. In the present work, we document for the first time the presence of O. attenuata on Arctocephalus australis on the Argentine mainland. A total of 23 adult and 381 immature mites were collected from the nose and nasopharyngeal cavity during a necropsy. The mite ambulacrum is described in adults and larvae. This structure consists of a pretarsus, an extensible pulvillum, a pair of claws and paradactyli (pretarsus opercula). The ambulacral structures also have some peculiarities, such as the presence of longitudinal furrows in the claws, straight claws in legs II and III (as opposed to curved in legs I and IV), and the fin-shaped paradactyli. The morphology of the ambulacrum of this mite is interpreted as an adaptation for anchoring to different surfaces of the host, and the protective structures present in the larvae as an adaptation for the dispersal phase in the external environment.
["Acari"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Bivalves of superfamily Galeommatoidea (Mollusca, Bivalvia) from western South Africa, with observations on commensal relationships and habitats
The Galeommatoidea are a diverse but little-studied group of small bivalves, well known for the symbiotic relationships many species have with a range of invertebrate taxa. Four species collected from the Western Cape region of South Africa were examined and illustrated, providing new details on their habitat preferences, and depicting the mantle structure of live specimens for the first time. Brachiomya ducentiunus sp. nov., is described herein, and an additional record of Montacuta substriata (Montagu, 1808) is reported from South Africa. Brachiomya ducentiunus and Montacuta substriata have obligate symbiotic relationships with different burrowing echinoids, while Kellia becki (WH Turton, 1932) and Melliteryx mactroides (Hanley, 1857) are free-living. DNA data and phylogenetic analyses are provided for three of the species.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Towards a revision of the Palaearctic species of Aphodius Hellwig, 1798, subgenus Liothorax Motschulsky, 1860 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Aphodiinae)
The Palaearctic species of Aphodius Hellwig, 1798, subgenus Liothorax Motschulsky, 1860 are revised using a combination of chromosome analysis, molecular phylogenetics and morphological statistical analysis. Sixteen species are recognised, one of which is shown to comprise two subspecies. Based mainly on the morphology of the aedeagal endophallus and the phylogenetic analysis, they are placed in two groups: the. niger group, apparently monophyletic, comprising Aphodius (Liothorax) niger Illiger, 1798, A. (L.) muscorum (Ádám, 1994), stat. rest., A. (L.) felix sp. nov., A. (L.) bellumgerens sp. nov., A. (L.) bameuli sp. nov., A. (L.) krelli sp. nov., A. (L.) isikdagensis (Balthasar, 1953), A. (L.) alberti sp. nov. and A. (L.) wilsonae Maté et Angus, 2005, stat. rest.; and the plagiatus group, almost certainly paraphyletic, comprising A. (L.) plagiatus (Linnaeus, 1767), including A. (L.) p. plagiatus and A. (L.) p. sinoplagiatus subsp. nov., A. (L.) rodrigoi sp. nov., A. (L.) discoides A. Schmidt, 1916, stat. rest., A. (L.) rutilipennis (Baudi di Selve, 1870), stat. rest., A. (L.) chellala sp. nov., A. (L.) kraatzi Harold, 1868, and A. (L.) rusakovi Gusakov, 2004. A key to the species is given as well as details of their morphology, distributions, and habitats.
["Chromosomes"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A new species of Neotropiconyttus Kirkaldy (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) in a cacao plantation from the Colombian Napo Province, including a key to species, and taxonomic notes of the genus
A new species of the genus Neotropiconyttus Kirkaldy, 1909 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae: Harpactorini) is described and illustrated. Neotropiconyttus armandoi Gamboa & Gil-Santana, sp. nov. represents the first record of the genus for the Province of Napo in Colombia, and the first description of a male individual in the genus. The male specimen representing the new species was collected on a leaf of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.-Malvaceae). Its remarkable similarity in external coloration and structure with that of the true bug Monalonion dissimulatum Distant, 1883 (Hemiptera: Miridae) inhabiting cacao agroforestry systems suggests that the new species could be part of a mimetic complex that incorporates phytophagous and predator bugs. Comments and figures of type specimens of Neotropiconyttus alboannulatus (Stål, 1855) and Neotropiconyttus dama (Burmeister, 1838), and a key to the species of the genus are also provided.
["Assassin bugs"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Systematic revision of the South American “Nuncia” (Opiliones, Laniatores, Triaenonychidae)
The genus Nuncia has long been the most speciose within the Opiliones family Triaenonychidae, comprising 63 species and subspecies distributed across New Zealand and South America. Recent molecular studies utilizing Sanger sequencing and ultraconserved elements (UCEs) have indicated that this genus is not monophyletic, and true Nuncia are actually confined to New Zealand. Here, the morphology of all South American triaenonychids is re-examined and DNA sequence data compiled from three markers (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) for a large number of triaenonychid species, including specimens from all areas with species currently and formerly classified in Nuncia to reassess their phylogenetic position. Based on our findings we 1) revalidate the genus Chilenuncia (Muñoz-Cuevas, 1971) nom. rest.; 2) describe five new genera: Fresiax gen. nov., Mistralia gen. nov., Laftrachia gen. nov., Lautaria gen. nov., Nerudiella gen. nov.; 3) redescribe five species: Fresiax spinulosa comb. nov., Mistralia verrucosa comb. nov., Chilenuncia chilensis comb. nov., Chilenuncia rostrata comb. nov., Nerudiella americana comb. nov.; and 4) describe 22 new species of South American triaenonychids: Fresiax conica sp. nov., Fresiax fray sp. nov., Fresiax mauryi sp. nov., Fresiax pichicuy sp. nov., Mistralia ramirezi sp. nov., Laftrachia robin sp. nov., Lautaria ceachei sp. nov., Nerudiella cachai sp. nov., Nerudiella caramavida sp. nov., Nerudiella cautin sp. nov., Nerudiella choapa sp. nov., Nerudiella curi sp. nov., Nerudiella goroi sp. nov., Nerudiella jaimei sp. nov., Nerudiella malleco sp. nov., Nerudiella penco sp. nov., Nerudiella pichi sp. nov., Nerudiella portai sp. nov., Nerudiella quenes sp. nov., Nerudiella vilches sp. nov., Nerudiella wekufe sp. nov., and Nerudiella zapallar sp. nov. Furthermore, we provide detailed illustrations of all the South American species belonging to these lineages formerly classified in Nuncia.
["Argentina"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

The tiniest violin: the male of Loxosceles vallenar (Araneae, Sicariidae)
In recent years, several endemic species of Loxosceles, violin spiders, have been described from the North-Central Chile biodiversity hotspot, some of which have ambiguous placement within the species groups of the genus. In a recent expedition to the Atacama region, we collected male specimens representing new records of two recently described species: Loxosceles vicentei Taucare-Ríos, Brescovit & Villablanca, 2022 and Loxosceles vallenar Brescovit, Taucare-Ríos, Magalhaes & Santos, 2017 (Araneae, Sicariidae). Males of the latter are hitherto unknown and are here described for the first time. Examination of the morphology of these species revealed characters such as an embolic keel and digitiform median receptacles, which suggest they do not belong in the laeta species group, but rather in the spadicea species group, which is briefly re-diagnosed. With carapace lengths smaller than 2 mm, the newly discovered males of L. vallenar are the tiniest members of the genus. In addition, males of this species bear strong macrosetae in the clypeus, a sexually dimorphic character not previously reported in Loxosceles.
["Atacama"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Study of Mite Species"]

First record of subgenus Synaldis Foerster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae, Dinotrema Foerster) from Chile, with description of ten new species
Synaldis is a taxon within the Aspilota group with a contentious taxonomic history, currently classified as a subgenus of the genus Dinotrema. Species of Synaldis were only documented in the Neotropical region in 2017, and until then, the Neotropical fauna of this subgenus was represented by five species from Brazil. In this study, Synaldis is reported for the first time in Chile, with the description and illustration of ten new species, namely: Dinotrema (Synaldis) acarinareolatum sp. nov., D. (S.) brunneum sp. nov., D. (S.) chilense sp. nov., D. (S.) daltoni sp. nov., D. (S.) flavum sp. nov., D. (S.) latusdentertium sp. nov., D. (S.) perisfelipoi sp. nov., D. (S.) pilosicaudatum sp. nov., D. (S.) puyehue sp. nov., and D. (S.) verae sp. nov. The studied specimens were collected during expeditions to southern Chile, in the Valdivian temperate rainforest at Parque Nacional de Puyehue. This study also includes a dichotomous identification key for Neotropical species of Synaldis, as well as a discussion of the primary morphological characters used to distinguish species within the Neotropical and Nearctic regions.
["Alysiini"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of the genus Hebius (Squamata, Natricidae) from Yunnan, China
A new species of the genus Hebius Thompson, 1913 is described from Yingjiang County, Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, based on molecular and morphological evidence. It can be distinguished from its congeners by the following set of characters: (1) dorsal scale rows 19–17–17, feebly keeled; (2) ventrals 146–151; (3) nasal complete, nostril in the middle of the nasal; (4) supralabials 9, the fourth to sixth in contact with the eye; (5) infralabials 10–11, the first 5 touching the first pair of chin shields; (6) preoculars 2; (7) postoculars 3; (8) temporals 3, arranged in two rows (1+2); (9) maxillary teeth 31, the last 4 slightly enlarged, without diastema; (10) tail comparatively long, TAL/TL ratio 0.334 in the male; (11) dorsolateral series of irregular orange or ochre yellow blotches, extending from the neck to the posterior part of the tail; and (12) venter pale orange, tips of ventrals with subrectangular black blotches. All Hebius specimens were strongly recovered as monophyletic, in which Hebius taronensis (Smith, 1940) and Hebius venningi (Wall, 1910) were monophyletic as sister to the Yingjiang County specimens. According to the p‐distance of cytochrome b, the new species differs from its congeners by 9.7–15.4%.
["Cyt b"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of the genus Luciogobius Gill, 1859 (Teleostei, Oxudercidae) from Taiwan
A new species, Luciogobius opisthoproctus sp. nov., is described based on 18 specimens collected from Daxi Creek (Yilan) and Babian Creek (Taitung) in Taiwan. The new species is characterized by having a yellowish body with scattered spots on the sides, a black blotch on the caudal fin, the absence of free pectoral-fin rays, and more than 40 vertebrae. The new species can be distinguished from congeners by the following combination of characters: AAA distance (anus to anal-fin origin) shorter than twice the body depth at anus, 4.2–7.2% of standard length (SL); pre-anus length 80.0–92.8% of pre-anal-fin length; snout length 39.7–62.7% of AAA distance; abdominal vertebrae 20–22; caudal vertebrae 20–22; first anal-fin pterygiophore usually inserted behind the second haemal spine.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Four genera of the subfamily Opiinae Blanchard (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) new for Japan, with the description of two new species
Four genera are reported for the first time from Japan (Areotetes van Achterberg & Li, 2013, Indiopius Fischer, 1966, Neopius Gahan, 1917 and Sternaulopius Fischer, 1965), and keys are provided for the species of these genera. Two new species are described and illustrated: Areotetes convergens sp. nov. and Sternaulopius maculiferus sp. nov.
["Areotetes"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of holothuroid from the Labrador Sea (eastern Canada): Pseudothyone labradorensis sp. nov. (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea, Dendrochirotida, Sclerodactylidae)
A new species of holothuroid, Pseudothyone labradorensis sp. nov. (order Dendrochirotida and family Sclerodactylidae), was discovered off the coast of Labrador (eastern Canada) at a depth of 740–969 m. Two specimens were described based on morphological and genetic parameters. Distinctive characters included pinkish body colour, presence of tube feet on a ‘tail’, supporting rod-shaped ossicles in the tube feet, and rod-shaped ossicles in the tentacles. To investigate its phylogenetic relationships, partial sequences of COI were obtained for the new species as well as for the type species P. raphanus and another North Atlantic species P. serrifera. According to the phylogenetic analysis, P. labradorensis sp. nov. appeared in a well-supported clade with P. raphanus and P. serrifera. Molecular data also suggest polyphyly of the genus, showing the Northeast Pacific species Pseudothyone belli recovered outside of the clade containing the type species. Pseudothyone labradorensis sp. nov. is the first species of the genus from the Northwest Atlantic. A key to the North Atlantic Pseudothyone is provided.
["Bathyal fauna"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

DNA barcoding reveals a taxonomic fraud: Note on validity of Propomacrus muramotoae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae)
Until the early 2000s, the genus Propomacrus was known to comprise two species, occurring in the Eastern Mediterranean and Southeast China. The discovery of Propomacrus muramotoae Fujioka in Tibet and subsequently in Bhutan and Nepal, might play a crucial role in bridging the geographical distribution gap of the Euchirini tribe between the Mediterranean and Central China, offering profound insights into its evolution and biogeography. However, all specimens, including the holotype specimen, were sourced from a single insect vendor, with no further specimens found or catalogued in museum collections thereafter. During our examination of a P. muramotoae specimen from a private collection in South Korea, we found its COI gene sequence to be identical to that of P. bimucronatus (Pallas) from Turkey, a species known for its wide distribution and genetic variability across regional populations. This overlap in genetic identity raised significant doubts, further compounded by our detection of deliberate modifications in essential diagnostic features during morphological examination. All three specimens we examined showed crude modifications, including staining and artificial grinding. Despite our inability to access the P. muramotoae type specimens for direct examination—a challenge we attempted to overcome through various means—it is evident that significant fraudulent tampering has occurred with the P. muramotoae specimens. Therefore, a new synonymy is proposed: Propomacrus bimucronatus Pallas, 1781 = P. muramotoae Fujioka, 2007 (syn. nov.). We also advocate for a straightforward verification of the type specimen through molecular analysis of the COI barcode region and morphological re-examination under a microscope for those who have access to the type specimens.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Notes on the Pselaphodes Westwood complex (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) of Hubei, China, with description of a new species and additional faunistic data
The Pselaphodes Westwood complex of genera is represented in Hubei Province by four genera and eight species. Recent field work at Wanchaoshan Nature Reserve, Xingshan County revealed a small series of material belonging to this complex. In this paper, we describe Pselaphodes wanchaoshanus sp. nov. and provide new faunistic data for P. nomurai Yin, Li & Zhao. A key to the hitherto known members of Pselaphodes complex that occur in Hubei is provided to facilitate ready species identification.
["Ant-loving beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Integrative taxonomic study of mononchid nematodes from riparian habitats in Bulgaria. I. Genera Mononchus Bastian, 1865 and Coomansus Jairajpuri & Khan, 1977 with the description of Mononchus pseudoaquaticus sp. nov. and a key to the species of Mononchus
The species diversity of the genera Mononchus Bastian, 1865 and Coomansus Jairajpuri & Khan, 1977 was assessed in a study of the mononchid nematodes from a wide range of riparian habitats in Bulgaria. Four species were identified based on morphological and morphometric data: Coomansus parvus (de Man, 1880), Mononchus truncatus Bastian, 1865, Mononchus pseudoaquaticus sp. nov., and Mononchus sp. The first three species were characterised both morphologically and molecularly (18S and 28S rRNA gene sequences) and the integration of these data and phylogenetic analyses provided support for their distinct species status. This paper provides detailed descriptions, morphometric data for multiple species populations, drawings and photomicrographs, and the first taxonomically verified sequences for C. parvus (n = 6), M. truncatus (sensu stricto) (n = 4) and M. pseudoaquaticus sp. nov. (n = 3). Comparative sequence and phylogenetic analyses suggested that the utility of the 18S rRNA gene for species delimitation is rather limited at least for some species complexes within the genus Mononchus. At the generic and suprageneric level, the 18S and 28S rDNA phylogenies both recovered the three genera represented by two or more species (Mononchus, Mylonchulus, and Parkellus) as monophyletic with strong support, the Mononchidae as paraphyletic, the Anatonchidae as monophyletic, and there was no support for a sister-group relationship between Mylonchulus and Mononchus. A key to the species of Mononchus is provided to facilitate the identification of the currently recognised 31 species.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Revision of Troporhogas Cameron (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Rogadinae) with six new species from India and Thailand
The genus Troporhogas Cameron, 1905 from the Indo-Malayan region is reviewed. Six new species, Troporhogas alboniger Quicke, Loncle & Butcher, sp. nov., T. benjamini Quicke, Loncle & Butcher, sp. nov., T. hugoolseni Quicke, Loncle & Butcher, sp. nov., T. rafaelnadali Quicke, Loncle & Butcher, sp. nov., and T. rogerfedereri Quicke, Loncle & Butcher, sp. nov. from Thailand, and T. anamikae Ranjith, sp. nov. from India are described and illustrated photographically, bringing the total number of species of the genus known from the Indo-Malayan Region to 19. Troporhogas is recorded for the first time from India. A key is included to differentiate Troporhogas species. A four-gene ML tree based on COI, Cytb, 16S and 28S is reconstructed, representing the six new species. Troporhogas contrastus Long, 2014, originally described from Vietnam, is recorded from Thailand for the first time. The holotypes of the type species, Troporhogas tricolor Cameron, 1905 and that of its junior synonym Iporhogas are illustrated, and photographs are presented of all the species known only from China and Sri Lanka. Sexual colour dimorphism of males of several species is described for the first time. Drawings summarising the different patterns of black marks on the metasoma that aid species recognition are presented.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

The first two complete mitochondrial genomes for the genus Anagyrus (Hymenoptera, Encyrtidae) and their phylogenetic implications
Anagyrus, a genus of Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea), represents a successful group of parasitoid insects that attack various mealybug pests of agricultural and forestry plants. Until now, only 20 complete mitochondrial genomes have been sequenced, including those in this study. To enrich the diversity of mitochondrial genomes in Encyrtidae and to gain insights into their phylogenetic relationships, the mitochondrial genomes of two species of Anagyrus were sequenced, and the mitochondrial genomes of these species were compared and analyzed. Encyrtid mitochondrial genomes exhibit similarities in nucleotide composition, gene organization, and control region patterns. Comparative analysis of protein-coding genes revealed varying molecular evolutionary rates among different genes, with six genes (ATP8, ND2, ND4L, ND6, ND4 and ND5) showing higher rates than others. A phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial genome sequences supports the monophyly of Encyrtidae; however, the two subfamilies, Encyrtinae and Tetracneminae, are non-monophyletic. This study provides valuable insights into the phylogenetic relationships within the Encyrtidae and underscores the utility of mitochondrial genomes in the systematics of this family.
["Encyrtid"]
["Research on scale insects", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Seven new species of the subgenus Homoneura Malloch (Diptera, Lauxaniidae, Homoneura) from Jiangjin District, southwestern Chongqing, China
Seven new species of the subgenus Homoneura are described, Homoneura (Homoneura) biconica Chen & Li, sp. nov., Homoneura (Homoneura) dilatata Chen & Li, sp. nov., Homoneura (Homoneura) jiangjinensis Chen & Li, sp. nov., Homoneura (Homoneura) microtricha Chen & Li, sp. nov., Homoneura (Homoneura) multiseta Chen & Li, sp. nov., Homoneura (Homoneura) serrulata Chen & Li, sp. nov., Homoneura (Homoneura) simianshana Chen & Li, sp. nov., which were collected from Jiangjin District, southwestern Chongqing, China and are assigned to the henanensis group. A key to all of the 53 species of this species group in China is presented.
["Homoneurinae"]

A new species of Cincticostella Allen, 1971 (Ephemeroptera, Ephemerellidae) from Yunnan, China and establishment of a new species complex
Cincticostella jianchuan sp. nov. from Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, is described based on chorionic structure, nymph, and winged stages. The new species is closely related to C. fusca (Kang & Yang, 1995), but it can be distinguished in the male imago stage by its mesonotum and penes morphology, coloration, and the forking point of the stem of MA+Rs on the forewing; in the nymph stage, it can be distinguished by the length of the posterolateral projections of abdominal segment IX and the setation of the abdominal terga. Compared to other congeners, nymphs and male imagoes of the new species and C. fusca share several morphological characteristics, such as a larger body, mesothorax with medially notched anterolateral projections, forefemur without a subapical band of transverse spines of the nymphs, the area between C, Sc and R1 of the forewings distinctly pigmented, and an apical sclerite on the ventral face of the penes of the male imagoes, supporting the proposition of a new species complex, the jianchuan complex. The systematics of Cincticostella and related genera are discussed briefly.
["Eastern-Himalaya"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new oonopid spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) from Xishuangbanna tropical rainforest, Yunnan, China
A new species of the genus Bannana Tong & Li, 2015 and a new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 are recorded from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province: Bannana zhengguoi Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Trilacuna aoxian Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). An identification key to species of the genus Bannana from Xishuangbanna is provided. Detailed diagnoses, descriptions, and photomicroscopy images of new species are provided.

A first revision of the Andrena of Iraq (Hymenoptera, Andrenidae), with the description of two new species from Iraqi Kurdistan and additional records from surrounding countries
Iraq is a large country in the Middle East region that borders both Turkey and Iran, countries known to host two of the largest bee faunas globally, as expected for a group of insects that favour dry to Mediterranean climates. Despite this huge regional species richness, the bee fauna of Iraq is chronically understudied and poorly known, both in relative and absolute terms. This is true for the hyper-speciose bee genus Andrena, for which only 17 species have been previously published for Iraq. This work is the first modern contribution to the revision of the Andrena fauna of Iraq. Based on new specimen collections in Duhok Governorate (Iraqi Kurdistan) during 2023, a revised total of 59 Andrena species for Iraq (42 species recorded for the first time) is presented, including the description of two new species: Andrena (Aciandrena) duhokensis Wood, sp. nov. and Andrena (Notandrena) baiocchii Wood, sp. nov. The unknown males of A. (Micrandrena) elam Wood, 2022, A. (Micrandrena) obsidiana Wood, 2022, and A. (Notandrena) ayna Wood, 2023 are described. Andrena bakrajoensis Amin & Mawlood, 2019, syn. nov. is synonymised with A. (Holandrena) variabilis Smith, 1853. Additional records are presented from nearby Middle Eastern countries, particularly Lebanon. These results highlight the fundamentally understudied nature of the Iraqi Andrena fauna.
["Middle East"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Two new species of the genus Kingdonella Uvarov, 1933 (Orthoptera, Acridoidea) and the first reported male of Kingdonella qinghaiensis Zheng, 1990
Two new species of the genus Kingdonella and the first report of a male K. qinghaiensis Zheng, 1990 are presented. The new species K. gandensis sp. nov. has similar morphological features to K. wardi Uvarov, 1933, but it differs from the latter in having 1) the hind tibia black; 2) the epiproct, in males, with a median groove in the basal 1/2 and in the apical 1/4; 3) the denticles of the male epiproct black; 4) the outside of the hind femur reddish-brown on the basal 1/4 and black on the apical 3/4; and 5) the ventral face of the hind femur black on the outer side. The second new species, K. biruensis sp. nov., is morphologically close to K. pienbaensis Zheng, 1980 but differs from the latter in having 1) the length of the middle segment (12th segment) of antennae 1.2 times longer than its width; 2) the subgenital plate sharp-cornered in males; 3) the ovipositor smooth; 4) the upper half of hind femur outside surface with two black spots; and 5) the ventral face of the hind femur black on its outer side, red on the basal 2/3, and black on the apical 1/3 of its inner side. Finally, we provide a key to all known species of Kingdonella.
["Grasshopper"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

Genetic identification, morphology and distribution of Natrix helvetica subspecies in southern and western Switzerland (Reptilia, Squamata, Serpentes)
Most of Switzerland is inhabited by the nominotypical subspecies of the barred grass snake (Natrix helvetica helvetica), which is characterized by mitochondrial DNA lineage E. Only in the northeast of the country, the common grass snake (N. natrix) occurs and hybridizes with N. h. helvetica in a narrow contact zone. However, we discovered that in southern and western Switzerland barred grass snakes representing another mtDNA lineage (lineage C) are widely distributed. Lineage C is typical for Alpine populations of the southern subspecies N. h. sicula. Our microsatellite analyses of the Swiss samples revealed differences between the two subspecies and also a substructure with two clusters in each subspecies. Furthermore, we discovered a contact and hybrid zone of N. h. helvetica and N. h. sicula along the northern shore of Lake Geneva and also confirm that interbreeding with alien common grass snakes (N. n. moreotica, mtDNA lineage 7) occurs there. This finding is of concern for nature conservation and measures should be taken to prevent further genetic pollution. Using morphometrics, we found no differences between the two subspecies of N. helvetica, while N. natrix was slightly distinct from N. helvetica.
["Microsatellites"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Paragoniastrea variabilis Kishi, Nomura & Fukami, sp. nov. (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Scleractinia), a new coral species previously considered as a variant of Paragoniastrea deformis, from Japan and northern Taiwan
A new zooxanthellate scleractinian coral, Paragoniastrea variabilis Kishi, Nomura & Fukami, sp. nov. (Scleractinia, Merulinidae), is described from non-coral reef regions of Japan and northern Taiwan. This new species was previously recognized as a morphological variant of Paragoniastrea deformis (Veron, 1990) and can be morphologically distinguished from that species by lacking groove-and-tube structures on corallite wall joints, and by having larger calices, numerous septa, and up to three corallites in one valley. The new species also formed an independent clade from its congeners, P. australensis (Milne Edwards & Haime, 1857), P. deformis and P. russelli (Wells, 1954), in the molecular phylogeny based on the mitochondrial intergenic region and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacers.
["Merulinidae"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

An updated review of the genus Toxorhina Loew, 1850 (Diptera, Limoniidae) from Yunnan, China with a description of a new species
Seven species of the genus Toxorhina Loew, 1850 have been recorded from China, of which three are known to occur in Yunnan Province. Herein, all known species from Yunnan, China are reviewed with more detailed descriptions and illustrations of the male hypopygium. A species of Toxorhina belonging to the subgenus Ceratocheilus Wesché, 1910 from Yunnan, T. (C.) pianmica sp. nov., is described and illustrated as new to science.
["Ceratocheilus"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Revision of Trigastrotheca Cameron (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Braconinae) with descriptions of 13 new species
The Old World braconine wasp genus Trigastrotheca Cameron is revised. The genus is recorded from the island of Madagascar for the first time based on two new species, T. christianhenrichi Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov. and T. formosa Quicke & Friedman, sp. nov. Trigastrotheca griffini Quicke, sp. nov. is described from Australia; T. aethiopica Quicke & Friedman, sp. nov. is described from Ethiopia; T. braeti Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov. is described from Congo; T. simba van Noort, sp. nov. is described from Tanzania; T. freidbergi Quicke & Friedman, sp. nov., T. carinata Ranjith, sp. nov., T. flava Ranjith, sp. nov. and T. similidentata Ranjith, sp. nov. are described from India; T. khaoyaiensis Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov., T. naniensis Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov., and T. sublobata Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov. are described from Thailand. Trigastrotheca tridentata is recorded from Thailand for the first time. A putative female of T. sureeratae is described for the first time. Acrocerilia tricolor Quicke & Ingram, 1993 is transferred into Trigastrotheca, as T. acroceropsis nom. nov. A key is provided for the identification of species.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Ooceraea hainingensis sp. nov.: A new Chinese Ooceraea (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Dorylinae) species with a dealate queen, closely allied to the queenless clonal raider ant O. biroi
The clonal raider ant, Ooceraea biroi, is a queenless species that reproduces asexually, and these traits make it an attractive model system for laboratory research. However, it is unclear where on the ant phylogeny these traits evolved, partly because few closely related species have been described and studied. Here, we describe a new raider ant species, Ooceraea hainingensis sp. nov., from Zhejiang, China. This species is closely related to O. biroi but can be distinguished by the following features: 1) workers of O. hainingensis sp. nov. have an obvious promesonotal suture and a metanotal groove, whereas these characters are ambiguous in O. biroi; and 2) the subpetiolar process of O. hainingensis is prominent and anteroventrally directed like a thumb with sublinear posteroventral margin, while in O. biroi, it is anteroventrally directed but slightly backward-bent. Molecular phylogenetic analyses confirm that O. hainingensis is genetically distinct from O. biroi. Importantly, unlike O. biroi, O. hainingensis has a queen caste with wings and well-developed eyes. This suggests that the loss of the queen caste and transition to asexual reproduction by workers is specific to O. biroi and occurred after that species diverged from closely related congeneric species.
["Caste"]

A new Mexican species of the Cryptopygus complex (Collembola, Isotomidae) associated with the hermit crab Coenobita clypeatus (Crustacea, Coenobitidae)
A new species of Cryptopygus Willem, 1901 associated with hermit crabs living on seashores of Quintana Roo State, Mexico, is described and illustrated. It is blind, with 9–11 postlabial setae, unguis with a pair of lateral teeth, empodial appendix lanceolate and almost as long as unguis, tenaculum with 4 + 4 teeth and 3–4 setae on corpus, manubrium with 11–14 pairs of manubrial setae on anterior surface and 17–18 pairs on posterior surface, and mucro bidentate. An updated key for the identification of 29 American species of Cryptopygus complex is included.
["Sand"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Diversity of Orbiniella (Orbiniidae, Annelida) in the North Atlantic and the Arctic
In this work, the diversity of the genus Orbiniella in the Nordic Seas and the North Atlantic waters south of Iceland is studied based on the analyses of molecular markers (mitochondrial COI, 16S rDNA and nuclear ITS2) and morphological characters. Our results showed the presence of at least five genetic lineages in the studied material which could also be morphologically identified by their segmental annulation patterns, the number and the shape of acicular spines, and the length and the shape of pygidial lobes. The species name Orbiniella petersenae is assigned to one of the lineages restricting its geographical and vertical distribution to the deep-sea areas north of Iceland and Jan Mayen, and three lineages are described as new species (i.e., Orbiniella griegi Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov., Orbiniella mayhemi Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov., and Orbiniella parapari Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov.) elevating the number of known species in the genus to 25. Three deep-sea species of Orbiniella in our study are reported only north of the Greenland-Iceland-Scotland Ridge, one deep-sea species found south of the ridge. A single shallow-water species is distributed along the ridge and on the Norwegian shelf.
["Greenland-Iceland-Scotland Ridge"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Notes on the genus Elegansovella Hirschmann, 1989 (Acari, Mesostigmata, Urodinychidae)
The genus Elegansovella Hirschmann, 1989 (Mesostigmata: Uropodina: Urodinychidae) is resurrected for species of the Uroobovella elegans-group. This genus differs from the other taxa of Uroobovella Berlese, 1903 sensu lato based on the shape of the idiosoma and the caudal and dorsal setae. Three species from the Uroobovella elegans-group are transferred to the genus Elegansovella, as E. pectintata (Hirschmann, 1973), comb. nov., E. pectinatasimilis (Hiramatsu, 1980), comb. nov. and E. serangensis (Hiramatsu, 1980), comb. nov. The other seven species from this species group are transferred to Monstrobovella gen. nov., as M. crustosa (Vitzthum, 1926), comb. nov., M. enodis (Hiramatsu, 1985), comb. nov., M. faceta (Hiramatsu & Hirschmann, 1978), comb. nov., M. facetaoides (Hiramatsu & Hirschmann, 1978), comb. nov., M. imadatei (Hiramatsu, 1980), comb. nov., M. incerta (Hiramatsu & Hirschmann, 1978), comb. nov. and M. incertaoides (Hiramatsu & Hirschmann, 1978), comb. nov. The new genus differs from Elegansovella by the shape of the idiosoma and the shape of marginal and dorsal setae. Six Monstrobovella species occur in the Oriental Realm and only one species is known from the Neotropical region. The present paper contains the description of a second Neotropical species of Monstrobovella (M. mancocapaci sp. nov.) which was found in Peru. The new species differs from its Neotropical congener in the dorsal and marginal setation.
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Three new species of Oocyclus Sharp, 1882, with additional records from China (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Laccobiini)
Three new species of the water scavenger beetle genus Oocyclus Sharp, 1882 from China (Oocyclus extensus sp. nov., from Xizang, O. latiorificialis sp. nov. and O. ximaensis sp. nov. from Yunnan) are described and illustrated in detail. Additional faunistic data, illustrations of habitus and male genitalia, and a key to Chinese species are provided.

Poxyaibamberus Andersen & Dantas, gen. nov. (Diptera, Chironomidae, Orthocladiinae) from Brazil
Poxyaibamberus Andersen & Dantas, gen. nov. is erected based on the males of two species, P. jamanximensis Andersen & Dantas, sp. nov. from Jamanxim National Park, Pará State, Brazil, and P. ubajarensis Andersen & Dantas, sp. nov. from Ubajara National Park, Ceará State, Brazil. Both species have a comparatively short and wide head, with large eyes and short, five-segmented palps; a strong subapical seta on the ultimate flagellomere; scalpellate acrostichals; no setae on the wing veins except for one seta on the brachiolum; a long costal extension; and a large triangular anal point and a very long heel on the gonostylus. The systematic position of the new genus is briefly discussed.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Two new species of Bamazomus Harvey, 1992 from southern China (Schizomida, Hubbardiidae)
Two new schizomid species belonging to Bamazomus Harvey, 1992 are described from China: B. shanghang sp. nov. (♂♀) from Fujian Province and B. songi sp. nov. (♂♀) from Guangdong Province. In addition to their descriptions, illustrations and diagnoses, a distribution map is provided. These are first Bamazomus species from the mainland China and the northernmost in continental Asia.
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Five new species of the genus Stigmus Panzer (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae) from China, with a key to all Chinese species
Five new species of the genus Stigmus Panzer, 1804 are described and illustrated from Yunnan and Shaanxi provinces of China: S. carinannulatus Li & Ma, sp. nov., S. clypeglabratus Li & Ma, sp. nov., S. flagellipilaris Li & Ma, sp. nov., S. rugidensus Li & Ma, sp. nov., and S. sulciconspicus Li & Ma, sp. nov. In addition, S. solskyi Morawitz, 1864 is recorded in China for the first time. An illustrated key to known and new species of the genus Stigmus Panzer from China is provided.
["Digger wasps"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Three new species of jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae) from Hunan, China
Three new species of the genera Thiania C. L. Koch, 1846 and Yaginumaella Prószyński, 1979 are described and named as T. bamian sp. nov. (♂♀), T. flacata sp. nov. (♀) and Y. curvata sp. nov. (♂♀), from Hunan Province, China. Detailed descriptions, photos of somatic features and copulatory organs, as well as a distribution map are provided. Nucleotide data for the barcoding gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of T. bamian sp. nov. (♂♀) and Y. curvata sp. nov. (♀) are provided.
["Bamian Mountain"]

Review of the genus Paradelius De Saeger, 1942 of East Asia (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Cheloninae, Adeliini) with the description of a new species from South Korea
The East Palaearctic species of the adeliine genus Paradelius De Saeger, 1942 are reviewed. The genus Sculptomyriola Belokobylskij, 1988 is synonymised with Paradelius and treated as its subgenus. The following species are transferred to subgenus Paradelius (Sculptomyriola): P. (Sc.) extremiorientalis (Belokobylskij, 1988), comb. nov.; P. (Sc.) ghilarovi (Belokobylskij, 1988), comb. nov.; P. (Sc.) neotropicalis Shimbori & Shaw, 2019; P. (Sc.) nigrus Whitfield, 1988; P. (Sc.) rubrus Whitfield, 1988; P. (Sc.) sinevi (Belokobylskij, 1998), comb. nov. A new species Paradelius (Sculptomyriola) koreanus sp. nov. from Korean Peninsula is described. The genus Sinadelius He & Chen, 2000 is synonymised with Paradelius De Saeger and also treated as its subgenus. The species Sinadelius guangxiensis He & Chen, 2000 and S. nigricans He & Chen, 2000 are transferred to Paradelius (Sinadelius) (comb. nov.). A key for determination of the World known Paradelius species from three its subgenera, Paradelius s.str., Sculptomyriola Belokobylskij and Sinadelius He & Chen, and illustrated redescriptions of the type of genus and its Asian species are provided.
["Ichneumonoidea"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Taxonomic revision of the Southeast Asian brook barb genus Poropuntius Smith, 1931 (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) with description of a new species from Vietnam
Molecular data from samples encompassing 22 nominal species of Poropuntius indicate that the species-level diversity in the genus has been vastly overestimated, likely due to inadequate taxon and geographic sampling and reliance on morphological characters that vary intra-specifically. The latter includes discrete mouth morphologies related to alternate feeding strategies (ecomorphs) within populations. One new species is described, Poropuntius anlaoensis Hoàng, Phạm & Trần, sp. nov., and 17 synonyms of six valid species names of Poropuntius, P. krempfi, P. alloiopleurus, P. huangchuchieni, P. laoensis, P. kontumensis, and P. deauratus, are recognised. Additional taxonomic changes in this widespread and generally poorly known genus are likely as more molecular and morphological data become available.
["Cypriniformes"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Melanastera sinica He & Burckhardt, sp. nov., a new psylloid species (Hemiptera, Psylloidea, Liviidae) from China developing on Grewia sp. (Malvaceae)
Melanastera sinica He & Burckhardt, sp. nov., a new psylloid species developing on Grewia sp., is described from Hainan, China. It is the first Melanastera species reported from Asia and China, and the second species from the Old World. While New World species of Melanastera are mostly associated with the plant families Melastomataceae and Annonaceae, the two Old World species develop on the malvaceous Grewia, a host otherwise used in psylloids by two Haplaphalara species. The new species is described, diagnosed and illustrated, and its host plant and biogeographic ranges are discussed.
["Jumping plant lice"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Phylogenetic analysis reveals a new net-winged beetle genus of Eurrhacini (Coleoptera, Lycidae) from the Pacific slopes of Central America and Ecuador
The first phylogenetic inference of Calopterini and Eurrhacini focused on Calocladon and related taxa was carried out. A data matrix composed of 46 species and 51 morphological characters was assembled and analyzed using parsimony and model-based approaches. Eurrhacini were recovered monophyletic. Furthermore, phylogenetic analyses highly supported the Calocladon clade including also Atlanticolycus, Cladocalon, and Gorhamium gen. nov. as its sister clade. Our trees consistently recovered monophyly of the new genus with two new species: Gorhamium bidentatum sp. nov. (Panama, Baru Volcano) and G. unidentatum sp. nov. from the Pacific slopes of Ecuador. A revised key to the genera of Eurrhacini is given and illustrations of distinguishing characters are provided. Phylogenetic relationships of Eurrhacini and character evolution are discussed.
["Lycinae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of the genus Yoldiella (Bivalvia, Protobranchia, Yoldiidae) from Haima Cold Seep, South China Sea, China
In present study, a previously unidentified but frequently encountered species of deep-sea protobranch, Yoldiella haimaensis sp. nov., is described new to science from the Haima Cold Seep on the northwestern slope of the South China Sea. A morphological analysis confirmed that this species belongs to a previously undescribed species of the genus Yoldiella A.E. Verrill & K.J. Bush, 1897. It differs morphologically from other known species within the genus in its shell shape, degree of inflation, beaks, and number of hinge teeth. Furthermore, we sequenced three gene segments of Y. haimaensis sp. nov., comprising a nuclear ribosomal gene (18S rRNA), a nuclear protein-coding gene (histone H3), and a mitochondrial gene (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, COI). Our phylogenetic analysis performed on the superfamily Nuculanoidea and family Yoldiidae indicates that the genus Yoldiella is non-monophyletic, and the widely recognized families within the superfamily Nuculanoidea are also not monophyletic. Our results provide molecular insights into the Protobranchia and highlight the necessity for further samples and data to revise the classification of families and genera within the superfamily using an integrative approach that combines morphological analysis and molecular data.
["Anatomy"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Review of the genus Karschia Walter, 1889 from Xizang, China (Solifugae, Karschiidae)
The species of the genus Karschia Walter, 1889, collected from Xizang, China, were reviewed. A total of six species were recognized using morphological and molecular data, Karschia (Karschia) tibetana Hirst, 1907 is redescribed based on newly collected males and females, and five new species, Karschia (Karschia) dingye sp. nov., Karschia (Karschia) lhasa sp. nov., Karschia (Karschia) zhui sp. nov., Karschia (Karschia) shigatse sp. nov., and Karschia (Karschia) namling sp. nov., are described.
["Camel-spider"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Three new species of dragon pseudoscorpions (Pseudoscorpiones, Pseudotyrannochthoniidae) from China
Three new pseudoscorpions in the family Pseudotyrannochthoniidae are described from China: Allochthonius hispidus sp. nov. from Chongqing (Wushan County), Spelaeochthonius huanglaoensis sp. nov. from Beijing (Fangshan District), and Spelaeochthonius tuoliangensis sp. nov. from Hebei (Pingshan County). Detailed diagnoses and illustrations of all new species are provided.
["Allochthonius"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Three new Stenohya species with sexually dimorphic leg I from China (Pseudoscorpiones, Neobisiidae)
Three new species of the genus Stenohya Beier, 1967 from China are described: Stenohya gibba sp. nov. and S. papillata sp. nov. from Hunan Province, and S. guangmingensis sp. nov. from Jiangxi Province. In addition to their sexually dimorphic pedipalp, these three new species also have a uniquely sexual dimorphic leg I, which has not been reported in other Stenohya species. Additionally, an updated key to the Chinese Stenohya species is provided.
["Diversity"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Four new species of Marphysa (Annelida, Eunicida, Eunicidae) from the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia
Four new species of Marphysa are described from Terengganu state on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, using morphological and molecular (cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene) data. These species belong to different groups of Marphysa: Marphysa kertehensis sp. nov. belongs to Group A (Mossambica), Marphysa merchangensis sp. nov. and Marphysa setiuense sp. nov. belong to Group B (Sanguinea) and Marphysa ibaiensis sp. nov. belongs to Group E (Gravelyi). Marphysa kertehensis sp. nov. is characterised by having only limbate chaetae, absence of subacicular hooks, three types of pectinate chaetae including wide, thick isodont with short and slender inner teeth, and pectinate branchiae with up to nine branchial filaments. Marphysa merchangensis sp. nov. is characterised by the presence of eyes, unidentate subacicular hooks, four types of pectinate chaetae including wide, thick anodont pectinate chaetae with five long and thick inner teeth, and pectinate branchiae with up to six branchial filaments. Marphysa setiuense sp. nov. has mostly unidentate subacicular hooks (bidentate on several posterior chaetigers), four types of pectinate chaetae including wide, thick anodont pectinate chaetae with seven thick and long inner teeth, and pectinate branchiae with up to five branchial filaments. Marphysa ibaiensis sp. nov. has bidentate subacicular hooks throughout, five types of pectinate chaetae, including a heterodont with 12 short and slender inner teeth, and pectinate branchiae with up to eight branchial filaments. The designation of these new species based on morphology is fully supported by molecular data. Habitat descriptions of each species are also included.
["Abdullah", "Che Engku Siti Mariam Che Engku"]
["Bloodworm"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Ribbon worms (phylum Nemertea) from Bodega Bay, California: A largely undescribed diversity
The diversity of nemerteans along the Pacific coast of the United States is regarded as well characterized, but there remain many cryptic, undescribed, and “orphan” species (those known only in their larval form). Recent sampling of nemerteans in Oregon and Washington has begun to fill in these taxonomic gaps, but nemertean diversity in California has received relatively little attention over the past 60 years. During the summers of 2019 and 2020, nemertean specimens were collected from 20 locations in the Bodega Bay region of northern California, USA, including rocky intertidal shores, sandy beaches, mudflats, and other habitats. Based on morphological assessment and DNA sequence analysis (partial Cytochrome Oxidase I and 16S rRNA genes), our surveys identified 34 nemertean species. Only 13 of these (38%) can be confidently assigned to described species. Another 11 represent species that are new to science, including members of the genera Riserius, Nipponnemertes, Poseidonemertes, Zygonemertes, Nemertellina, Oerstedia, and three species of uncertain affiliation. The remaining ten species include undescribed or cryptic species of uncertain status that have been found previously along the Pacific Coast of North America. Our surveys also document extensions of known geographic ranges for multiple species, including the first records in California of Antarctonemertes phyllospadicola, Cephalothrix hermaphroditica, and Maculaura oregonensis. This is the first report of the genus Nemertellina in the northeast Pacific and Riserius in California. Overall, our findings highlight how much remains to be learned about the diversity and distribution of nemerteans in the northeast Pacific.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Ameripathidae, a new family of antipatharian corals (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Hexacorallia, Antipatharia)
A new family of antipatharian corals, Ameripathidae (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Antipatharia), is established for Ameripathes pseudomyriophylla Opresko & Horowitz, gen. et sp. nov. The new family resembles Myriopathidae and Stylopathidae in terms of the morphology of the polyps and tentacles and the pinnulate branching of the corallum. Phylogenetic analysis using a genomic data set of 741 conserved element loci indicates that the new family is sister to a clade containing the Myriopathidae, Stylopathidae, Antipathidae, and Aphanipathidae.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A new species of the Cyrtodactylus chauquangensis group (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from the borderlands of extreme northern Thailand
Phylogenetic and morphological analyses delimit and diagnose, respectively, a new population of a karst-dwelling Cyrtodactylus from extreme northern Thailand. The new species, Cyrtodactylus phamiensis sp. nov., of the chauquangensis group inhabits karst caves and outcroppings and karst vegetation in the vicinity of Pha Mi Village in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. Within the chauquangensis group, Cyrtodactylus phamiensis sp. nov. is the earliest diverging species of a strongly supported clade composed of the granite-dwelling C. doisuthep and the karst-dwelling sister species Cyrtodactylus sp. 6 and C. erythrops. The nearly continuous karstic habitat between the type locality of Cyrtodactylus phamiensis sp. nov. and its close relatives Cyrtodactylus sp. 6 and C. erythrops, extends for approximately 200 km along the border region of Thailand and the eastern limit of the Shan Plateau of Myanmar. Further exploration of this region, especially the entire eastern ~ 95% of the Shan Plateau, will undoubtably recover new populations whose species status will need evaluation. As in all other countries of Indochina and northern Sundaland, the continual discovery of new karst-dwelling populations of Cyrtodactylus shows no signs of tapering off, even in relatively well-collected areas. This only highlights the conservation priority that these unique karstic landscapes still lack on a large scale across all of Asia.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First record of the spider family Trechaleidae Simon, 1890 (Araneae) from China
The family Trechaleidae Simon, 1890 is reported for the first time from China, including one new species: Shinobius cona sp. nov. (♂♀). Morphological descriptions, photos and illustrations of the new species are provided. Taxonomic features of species belonging to the genus are briefly discussed. Photos of the female of Shinobius orientalis (Yaginuma, 1967) are also presented to compare it with the new species.

A new mountain pitviper of the genus Ovophis Burger in Hoge & Romano-Hoge, 1981 (Serpentes, Viperidae) from Yunnan, China
Based on a molecular phylogenetic analysis and morphological comparison, a new species of mountain pitviper, Ovophis jenkinsi sp. nov., is described. The new species was collected in Yingjiang County, Yunnan Province, China. It can be distinguished from congeneric species by the following characters: (1) internasals in contact or separated by one small scale; (2) second supralabial entire and bordering the loreal pit; (3) dorsal scales in 23 (25)–21 (23, 25)–19 (17, 21) rows; (4) 134–142 ventrals; (5) 40–52 pairs of subcaudals; (6) third supralabial larger than fourth in all examined specimens of Ovophis jenkinsi sp. nov.; (7) deep orange-brown or dark brownish-grey markings on dorsal head surface; (8) background color of dorsal surface deep orange-brown or dark brownish-grey; (9) both sides of dorsum display dark brown trapezoidal patches; (10) scattered small white spots on dorsal surface of tail.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

A remarkable new species of Paraparatrechina Donisthorpe (1947) (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Formicinae) from the Eastern Himalayas, India
A new ant species, Paraparatrechina neela sp. nov., with a captivating metallic-blue color is described based on the worker caste from the East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, northeastern India. This discovery signifies the first new species of Paraparatrechina in 121 years, since the description of the sole previously known species, P. aseta (Forel, 1902), in the Indian subcontinent.
["Abor Expedition"]

Fishes (Actinopterygii) of the rapids and associated environments in the lower Vaupés River Basin: an undiscovered Colombian Amazon diversity
The Vaupés River stands out as one of the few within the Amazon basin due to its numerous rapids. These riverine fast-flowing sections not only provide habitat to highly specialized fishes but also function as natural barriers hindering the movement of fish along its course. During a fish-collecting expedition in the lower Vaupés River basin in Colombia, 95 species were registered belonging to 30 families and seven orders. Despite recent inventories in the region, our comprehensive sampling efforts particularly focused on the rapids and associated rheophilic fauna, allowing us to contribute the first records of four fish species in Colombia (Myloplus lucienae Andrade, Ota, Bastos & Jégu, 2016, Tometes makue Jégu, Santos & Jégu, 2002, also first record of the genus, Leptodoras praelongus (Myers & Weitzman, 1956), and Eigenmannia matintapereira Peixoto, Dutra & Wosiacki, 2015) and six presumably undescribed species (i.e., Jupiaba sp., Moenkhausia sp., Phenacogaster sp., Bunocephalus sp., Hemiancistrus sp., and Archolaemus sp.). In this study, a commented list of the ichthyofauna of these environments is presented, as well as a photographic catalog of fish species integrated into the CaVFish Project – Colombia.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

An annotated catalogue of selected historical type specimens, including genetic data, housed in the Natural History Museum Vienna
Museum collections are an important source for resolving taxonomic issues and species delimitation. Type specimens as name-bearing specimens, traditionally used in morphology-based taxonomy, are, due to the progress in historical DNA methodology, increasingly used in molecular taxonomic studies. Museum collections are subject to constant deterioration and major disasters. The digitisation of collections offers a partial solution to these problems and makes museum collections more accessible to the wider scientific community. The Extended Specimen Approach (ESA) is a method of digitisation that goes beyond the physical specimen to include the historical information stored in the collection. The collections of the Natural History Museum Vienna represent one of the largest non-university research centres in Europe and, due to their size and numerous type specimens, are frequently used for taxonomic studies by visiting and resident scientists. Recently, a version of ESA was presented in the common catalogue of the Fish and Evertebrata Varia collections and extended to include genetic information on type specimens in a case study of a torpedo ray. Here the case study was extended to a heterogeneous selection of historical type series from different collections with the type locality of Vienna. The goal was to apply the ESA, including genetic data on a selected set of type material: three parasitic worms, three myriapods, two insects, twelve fishes, and one bird species. Five hundred digital items (photographs, X-rays, scans) were produced, and genetic analysis was successful in eleven of the 21 type series. In one case a complete mitochondrial genome was assembled, and in another case ten short fragments (100–230 bp) of the cytochrome oxidase I gene were amplified and sequenced. For five type series, genetic analysis confirmed their taxonomic status as previously recognised synonyms, and for one the analysis supported its status as a distinct species. For two species, genetic information was provided for the first time. This catalogue thus demonstrates the usefulness of ESA in providing digitised data of types that can be easily made available to scientists worldwide for further study.
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

An integrated taxonomic revision of Ctonoxylon (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) reveals new Malagasy species originating from multiple recent colonisations of the island
Ctonoxylon is a strictly Afrotropical genus of bark beetles breeding under bark of rainforest trees and lianas. A taxonomic revision of the genus included a molecular phylogenetic analysis of ten species based on three gene fragments and was compared to a morphology-based tree topology for all 24 currently recognised species. Four species are described as new to science: Ctonoxylon torquatum, sp. nov., Ctonoxylon tuberculatum, sp. nov., Ctonoxylon quadrispinum, sp. nov., all from Madagascar, and Ctonoxylon pilosum, sp. nov. from Cameroon. Ctonoxylon hirsutum Hagedorn, 1910, stat. rev. is resurrected from synonymy with C. flavescens Hagedorn, 1910, and C. atrum Browne, 1965 stat. rev. from its synonymy with C. methneri Eggers, 1922 (as C. hamatum Schedl, 1941). The following species have new synonymies suggested: Ctonoxylon festivum Schedl, 1941 (= C. dentigerum Schedl, 1941, syn. nov.), C. methneri Eggers, 1922 (= C. hamatum Schedl, 1941, syn. nov., = C. griseum Schedl, 1941, syn. nov.), C. montanum Eggers, 1922 (= C. longipilum Eggers, 1935, syn. nov., = C. nodosum Eggers, 1940, syn. nov.), C. camerunum Hagedorn, 1910 (= C. conradti Schedl, 1939, syn. nov.), and C. spinifer Eggers, 1920 (= C. setifer Eggers, 1920, syn. nov.). New country records are noted for C. festivum (Tanzania), C. flavescens (Uganda), C. camerunum (Liberia), C. crenatum Hagedorn, 1910 (Democratic Republic of the Congo), C. spathifer Schedl, 1941 (Ghana), C. atrum (Cameroon), and C. spinifer (Madagascar), with patterns in distribution and colonisation of Madagascar discussed. An identification key with pictures of all species is provided.
["Afrotropical"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Larval and adult morphology of Photuris elliptica Olivier (Coleoptera, Lampyridae) and a Halloweeny case of cave-dwelling firefly larva feeding on bat guano
The predatory firefly Photuris elliptica is common throughout the Atlantic Forest and has been proposed as a biomonitor due to the species’ narrow niche and elevational range. However, the species is only known from adults, and a more effective monitoring of its populations hinges on the lack of knowledge on their immature stages. Recent sampling in ferruginous caves and inserted in other lithologies, on sites in the Atlantic Forest and Cerrado, have led to the capture of firefly larvae later reared to adults in the lab. Firefly larvae have been reported in South American caves before; however, they have only been identified to family due to the adult-biased taxonomy of Lampyridae. Here, we provide an updated diagnosis of Photuris elliptica, describe its immature stages for the first time, and update the distribution of the species. The larvae of Photuris elliptica were observed to interact with guano of several bat species, including that of vampire bats. These observations are consistent with the less specialized feeding preferences of photurine larvae, unlike most other firefly taxa, which specialize in gastropods and earthworms. It is yet unclear whether P. elliptica are cave specialists. However, since its occurrence outside caves remains unknown, protecting cave environments must be considered in conservation strategies for this important biomonitor species.
["Bicellonycha"]
["bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology"]

Revisions of the clavipes and pruni species groups of the genus Merodon Meigen, 1803 (Diptera, Syrphidae)
This study focuses on the avidus–nigritarsis lineage within the genus Merodon, exploring morphological, genetic, and distributional aspects of two related assemblies within this lineage: the clavipes and pruni species groups. An integrative taxonomic approach was followed to ensure comprehensive species identification and validation, using adult morphology, wing geometric morphometrics, and genetic analysis of the mtDNA COI gene. In the clavipes group, seven species were identified, including three new species: M. aenigmaticus Vujić, Radenković & Likov, sp. nov., M. latens Vujić, Radenković & Likov, sp. nov., and M. rufofemoris Vujić, Radenković & Likov, sp. nov. In the pruni group, our revision revealed a new species, M. aequalis Vujić, Radenković & Likov, sp. nov., and the revalidation of Merodon obscurus Gil Collado, 1929, stat. rev. Merodon pallidus Macquart, 1842 is redescribed. Diagnoses, identification keys to species, and distribution maps are provided, and neotypes for Syrphus clavipes Fabricius, 1781 and Merodon quadrinotatus (Sack, 1931) are designated. Additionally, the following new synonyms are proposed: M. clavipes albus syn. nov., M. clavipes ater syn. nov., M. clavipes niger syn. nov., and M. splendens syn. nov. are junior synonyms of M. clavipes; and M. velox armeniacus syn. nov. and M. velox anathema syn. nov. are junior synonyms of M. velox.
["Geometric morphometrics"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new species of the genus Glossobalanus (Hemichordata, Enteropneusta, Ptychoderidae) from China
A morphological and molecular analyses of a newly discovered species, Glossobalanus weii sp. nov., from Danzhou city, Hainan Island, China is presented. Several morphological characters distinguish this new species, while molecular analyses confirm significant genetic divergence from its recognized congeners (p-distance > 0.25 in mitochondrial genomes). Phylogenetic analyses place the new species in a distinct sister clade to G. polybranchioporus, which is afforded first-class state protection in China. An updated retrieval table is provided for the eight species of Hemichordata found in China. Hemichordate diversity remains underestimated and this new species emphasizes the need for their ongoing conservation in southern China.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species"]

Contribution to the Chinese Intybia Pascoe, 1866 (Coleoptera, Melyridae, Malachiinae), with descriptions of two new species groups and one new species
A contribution to the knowledge of the malachiine genus Intybia Pascoe, 1866 from China is given. Two new species groups: Intybia klapperichi group and Intybia eversi group are defined and described. A new species, Intybia hainanensis Wang & Liu, sp. nov., of the Intybia klapperichi group is described from Hainan Province. Intybia erectodentatus (Wittmer, 1982) and Intybia concha Asano, 2015 are redescribed based on new materials collected in mainland China. A key to species groups of the genus Intybia Pascoe, 1866 in China is provided.
["Apalochrini"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Argopistes Motschulsky from Madagascar with descriptions of six new species (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
The revision of the flea beetle genus Argopistes Motschulsky, 1860 in Madagascar is provided. Six new species are described: Argopistes janakmoravecorum sp. nov., A. laterosinuatus sp. nov., and A. vadoni from the northern area; A. jenisi sp. nov., A. keiseri sp. nov., and A. seyrigi sp. nov. from the central area. A new synonym of Argopistes brunneus Weise, 1895 is established: A. sexguttatus Weise, 1895, syn. nov., since A. sexguttatus is shown to be a chromatic form of A. brunneus. A diagnostic key of the seven Malagasy Argopistes species is provided, with photographs of the habitus, median lobe of the aedeagus, and spermatheca. Finally, based on known occurrences, the current suitable areas for this flea beetle genus in Madagascar are estimated using Ecological Niche Modelling (ENM) techniques.
["Afrotropical region"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Description of three new species of the spider genus Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 (Araneae, Sparassidae) from China, Laos and Thailand, and the female of P. kavanaughi Zhang, Jäger & Liu, 2023
With 252 species, Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000, is the largest genus in the family Sparassidae and is widely distributed in South (49 species in Bhutan, India, Nepal and Pakistan), East (158 species in China and Japan) and Southeast Asia (51 species in Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam). Few species have been found in more than one region. In this paper, three new species of Pseudopoda are described from East and Southeast Asia. Among them, one from China: P. fengtongzhaiensis Jäger & Liu, sp. nov. (♀); one from Laos: P. baimai Jäger & Liu, sp. nov. (♀); and one from Thailand: P. inthanonensis Jäger & Liu, sp. nov. (♀). Additionally, the female of P. kavanaughi Zhang, Jäger & Liu, 2023 is described for the first time. Photos of the habitus and genitalia, as well as a distribution map of all four species, are provided.
["Heteropodinae"]

Eight new spider species of Belisana Thorell, 1898 (Araneae, Pholcidae), with an updated overview of Belisana species from Yunnan, China
In this study, eight new species are described from the subtropical parts of Yunnan Province in southwestern China: Belisana honghe Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), B. jiuxiang Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), B. lincang Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), B. luxi Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), B. tengchong Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), B. tongi Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), B. yongsheng Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂), and B. yunnan Zhang, Li & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀). They add up to a total of 31 Belisana species from Yunnan in an updated list provided in this paper.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Taxonomic study on the genus Mongoloniscus Verhoeff, 1930 (Isopoda, Agnaridae) from China: morphological and phylogenetic analyses
A combination of morphological traits and DNA data (COI and 28S rRNA partial sequences) was used to study the genus Mongoloniscus Verhoeff, 1930 from China. Four new species are described: M. crenatus Jiang, Li & Huang, sp. nov., M. orientalis Jiang, Li & Huang, sp. nov., M. polyacanthum Jiang, Li & Huang, sp. nov., and M. parvus Jiang, Li & Huang, sp. nov. Following an in-depth examination of the Mongoloniscus species, Lucasioides vannamei (Arcangeli, 1927), comb. nov. (from Mongoloniscus) is proposed, and M. chevronus Yang & An, 2021, syn. nov. is synonymized with Koreoniscus racovitzai (Arcangeli, 1927). A restrictive criterion for recognizing the genus Mongoloniscus is also provided in the present study.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

The Leptogenys Roger, 1861 (Formicidae, Ponerinae) of Hong Kong SAR with additional records from Guangdong, China
Leptogenys is the most diverse genus of the ant subfamily Ponerinae and is widely distributed across the world’s tropical and subtropical regions. More than 40 species are known from the Oriental realm displaying a wide range of ecologies, although their life history traits remain poorly understood, and new species are frequently discovered. Here, a faunal review of the genus from Hong Kong SAR, southern China is provided. A total of nine species are recorded, with one new species, Leptogenys grohli Hamer, Lee & Guénard, sp. nov. described. Ecological and biogeographic information, including new information on reproductive modes for two species are provided with the ergatoids of L. binghamii Forel, 1900 and L. rufida Zhou et al., 2012 described. Additional records for five of these species within the neighbouring province of Guangdong are also provided. Finally, an illustrated key to species known from Hong Kong is presented, as well as notes on each species’ distribution, ecology, and behaviour. An updated provincial distributional checklist of the Leptogenys species of Mainland China and Taiwan is also supplied.
["Ants"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

On the enigmatic jumping spider genus Ogdenia Peckham, 1908 (Araneae, Salticidae, Chrysillini)
The monotypic genus Ogdenia Peckham, 1908, is redefined based on the redescription of the holotype of O. mutilla (Peckham & Peckham, 1907), along with the newly discovered male specimens and intraspecific variation from China, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam. Description, illustrations, and photographs are provided.
["Chrysillini"]

New camaenid genus and species from Zhejiang, East China (Eupulmonata, Helicoidea)
We report a new land snail species representing a new genus from the mountainous area of Zhejiang, China. The snail has a depressed shell with granules all over the surface. The soft part of the new taxon is characterized by the presence of a mantle lobe whose form is reviewed herein across a wide range of helicoid snails, the presence of a developed epiphallic papilla, and the absence of a penial sheath, a dart sac apparatus and a flagellum. As indicated by a molecular-based phylogeny (16S + ITS2), the new taxon is deeply nested in the eastern Asian camaenid genera and shows a close relationship with the camaenids distributed in Central China.
["Anatomy"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species"]

Mid-Holocene marine faunas from the Bangkok Clay deposits in Nakhon Nayok, the Central Plain of Thailand
Based on several field investigations, many molluscan shells and chondrichthyan teeth, together with other invertebrate and actinopterygian remains were found from the marine Bangkok Clay deposits in Ongkharak, Nakhon Nayok, at a depth of ~ 5–7 m below the topsoil surface. Animal macrofossils recovered from these Holocene marine deposits were identified and their chronological context was investigated in order to reconstruct the paleoenvironments of the area at that time. The majority of marine fossils recovered from the site consist of molluscs, with a total of 63 species identified. Other invertebrate species include a stony coral, a mud lobster, barnacles, and a sea urchin. The vertebrates are represented by fish remains, including carcharhinid shark teeth from at least nine species, stingray and trichiurid teeth, and one sciaenid otolith. The molluscan fauna indicates that the paleoenvironments of the area corresponded to intertidal to sublittoral zones, where some areas were mangrove forests and intertidal mudflats. The fish fauna is dominated by the river shark Glyphis, indicating freshwater influences and possibly occasional brackish conditions. The carbon-14 analysis of mollusc and charcoal remains shows that deposition of the marine sediment sequence began during the mid-Holocene, spanning approximately from 8,800 to 5,300 cal yr BP. This study provides in-depth insights into the diversity of fishes, marine molluscs, and other invertebrates from the Bangkok Clay deposits, supporting the existence of a marine transgression onto the Lower Central Plain of Thailand during the mid-Holocene.
["carbon-14 dating"]
["Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Marine animal studies overview", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

Four new inquiline social parasite species in the dolichoderine ant genus Tapinoma (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Four new inquiline social parasites are described in the dolichoderine ant genus Tapinoma from the Nearctic region, and keys are provided for queens and males of the Nearctic Tapinoma species. The new social parasite species represent the first inquiline species in the genus Tapinoma and the first confirmed inquilines known from the ant subfamily Dolichoderinae. The four new species appear to be workerless inquilines that exploit a single host, Tapinoma sessile (Say), and they represent at least two distinct life history syndromes. Tapinoma incognitum Cover & Rabeling, sp. nov. is highly derived morphologically and is a host-queen-tolerant inquiline. In contrast, T. inflatiscapus Cover & Rabeling, sp. nov. shows a lesser degree of morphological modification and appears to be a host-queen-intolerant social parasite. The life history of T. pulchellum Cover & Rabeling, sp. nov. is presently unknown, but its close similarity to T. incognitum suggests that it is also a host-queen-tolerant inquiline. The life history of T. shattucki Cover & Rabeling, sp. nov. is still uncertain. Our findings provide novel insights into the complex biology of ant inquiline life history syndromes.
["Brood parasitism"]

Platyintybia, a new genus of Apalochrini (Coleoptera, Melyridae, Malachiinae) from China
A new genus of malachiine Melyridae, Platyintybia gen. nov., is described based on several male-specific characters, along with description of its type species, Platyintybia zhongshanensis sp. nov., from China. A new combination, Platyintybia sarawakensis (Champion, 1921), comb. nov., is proposed after examining the type specimen; this species is newly recorded from China. A key to the genera of Chinese Apalochrini is provided for the first time.
["key to genera"]

An island in a sea of sand: a first checklist of the herpetofauna of the Serra da Neve inselberg, southwestern Angola
The Serra da Neve inselberg in Namibe Province, southwestern Angola is the second highest peak of Angola with an elevation of 2489 m. It remains one of the least explored regions in the country, despite several endemic species having been recently described from this inselberg. Here we provide an inventory of the amphibian and reptile species ocurring in Serra da Neve and compare its fauna with that of the surrounding habitats at lower elevations. We also examine the phylogenetic affinities of the inselberg taxa. A total of 59 herpetological taxa were recorded for the Serra da Neve inselberg and its immediate surroundings. These include 11 species of amphibians, belonging to nine genera and seven different families, and 48 species of reptiles, belonging to 32 genera and 12 families. Of these, one amphibian and seven reptiles from seven different genera are strictly endemic, making the inselberg the richest region in southwestern Africa with respect to strict endemics, with one endemic reptile taxa per 127 km2. Not surprisingly, most of the recorded taxa belong to clades that are endemic, or at least strongly associated, with southern Africa, but two are representatives of central African clades, and another two are more closely related to eastern African highland taxa. We also provide comments on the threats to the conservation of this endemic-rich inselberg.
["Amphibians"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Revision of the Austrelatus papuensis group with descriptions of 42 new species from New Guinea (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
The Austrelatus papuensis group is the second species group of the New Guinean representatives of the recently described genus Austrelatus Shaverdo et al., 2023. The group is mainly defined by distinct scale- and/or spinula-like surface structures of the dorsal sclerite of the median lobe. The species group already contains four described species and 42 new species and one subspecies treated here: Austrelatus aiyurensis sp. nov., A. asteios sp. nov., A. bewaniensis sp. nov., A. bosaviensis sp. nov., A. bundunensis sp. nov., A. centralensis sp. nov., A. craterensis sp. nov., A. decoris sp. nov., A. dekai sp. nov., A. epicharis sp. nov., A. flavocapitatus sp. nov., A. fuscus sp. nov., A. herzogensis sp. nov., A. inconstans sp. nov., A. iriatoi sp. nov., A. kalibumi sp. nov., A. kebarensis sp. nov., A. kokodensis sp. nov., A. leptos sp. nov., A. loloki sp. nov., A. lopintolensis sp. nov., A. madangensis sp. nov., A. maindai sp. nov., A. mamberamo sp. nov., A. mianminensis sp. nov., A. miltokarenos sp. nov., A. noiadi sp. nov., A. normanbyensis sp. nov., A. ohu sp. nov., A. posmani sp. nov., A. procerus sp. nov., A. pseudogestroi sp. nov., A. pseudomianminensis sp. nov., A. robustus sp. nov., A. sararti sp. nov., A. sumokedi sp. nov., A. wanangensis sp. nov., A. wasiorensis sp. nov., A. wasurensis sp. nov., A. weigeli sp. nov., A. yamurensis sp. nov., A. yeretuar sp. nov., A. xanthocephalus nabirensis ssp. nov. A checklist and identification key to New Guinean species of the group are provided and important diagnostic characters are illustrated. Data on the species distributions and habiat preferences are given.
["Australasia"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Taxonomic notes on the genus Baetiella Uéno, 1931 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae), with description of three new species from Thailand
Based on material recently collected in northern Thailand, the present study provides an updated of the genus Baetiella, including Gratia. It comprises six species in Thailand, three of them being new species: Baetiella (Gratia) narumonae, Baetiella (Gratia) sororculaenadinae, Baetiella (Baetiella) bispinosa, Baetiella (Baetiella) baei sp. nov., Baetiella (Baetiella) lannaensis sp. nov. and Baetiella (Baetiella) bibranchia sp. nov. Baetiella (Baetiella) baei sp. nov. can be distinguished from other species by the reduction of the posteromedian protuberances on abdominal tergites I–III, the asymmetrical coniform terminal segment of labial palp, the distal margin of abdominal sternites VII–X each with a row of long, spatulate setae, the dorsal margin of femur with two long, robust setae distally. Baetiella (Baetiella) lannaensis sp. nov. is diagnosed by the posteromedian protuberances present on tergites I–VIII, dorsal margin of femur with a regular row of long, rounded, ciliated setae and body surface covered with numerous, dense, rounded scale-like setae. Baetiella (Baetiella) bibranchia sp. nov. can be separated from other species by coxal gills present at the base of forelegs and midlegs. The molecular study based on the mitochondrial gene COI and a larval key to species of Thai Baetiella are also provided.
["COI gene"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Six new species of Cryptochironomus Kieffer (Diptera, Chironomidae) from the Nearctic region
Six new species of Cryptochironomus Kieffer, 1918, C. absum Liu, sp. nov., C. beardi Liu, sp. nov., C. dentatus Liu, sp. nov., C. ferringtoni Liu, sp. nov., C. parallelus Liu, sp. nov. and C. taylorensis Liu, sp. nov., are described and illustrated based on adult males. The specimens were collected from various water systems in the United States and preserved by Dr. Leonard Charles Ferrington Jr. An updated key to adult males of all known Cryptochironomus species in the Nearctic region is also provided.
["Adult male"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Study of Mite Species"]

A review of the genus Vitrea Fitzinger, 1833 (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Pristilomatidae) in Serbia: diversity, distribution and the description of a new species
In this paper, the genus Vitrea Fitzinger, 1833 in Serbia is reviewed. All previous literature data on this genus from Serbia are summarised and used to discuss its distribution in the country and create distribution maps, supplemented by new material collected by the authors. All Serbian species are figured. For each species, a brief description of the examined specimens, data on previous findings in Serbia, the material (including types) that were analysed, the distribution and habitats in Serbia they inhabit, as well as remarks on specific species are given. A new species, Vitrea virgo Gojšina & Dedov, sp. nov., is described from a pit on Mt. Devica in eastern Serbia. Vitrea pygmaea (O. Boettger, 1880) is reported for the first time for the territory of Serbia. As some Vitrea species have a narrow geographical range and prefer certain habitats, they are particularly vulnerable to habitat changes, which is also discussed in the paper. An identification key for all hitherto known Serbian species is given.
["faunistics"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Hivanua, a new genus of harmochirine jumping spiders from the Marquesas Islands (Araneae, Salticidae, Harmochirina)
The genus Hivanua gen. nov. is established for the harmochirine jumping spiders of the Marquesas Islands, formerly placed in Habronattus F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1901 and Havaika Prószyński, 2002. The type species, Hivanua tekao sp. nov. is described, and five species described by Berland are re-illustrated and moved into the genus: Hivanua flavipes (Berland, 1933), comb. nov., Hivanua nigrescens (Berland, 1933), comb. nov., Hivanua nigrolineata (Berland, 1933), comb. nov., Hivanua rufescens (Berland, 1934), comb. nov., and Hivanua triangulifera (Berland, 1933), comb. nov. The female epigyne is much like that of Habronattus, Bianor Peckham & Peckham, 1896, and other harmochirines, with a centrally placed coupling pocket and two atria with crescent-shaped edges. The terminal apophysis of the male palp, which is variable throughout the pellenine subgroup of the Harmochirina, is absent in H. rufescens but present in H. tekao sp. nov., in which it is elbowed much as in Habronattus. These Pacific Island harmochirines, like the Havaika of Hawaii, appear to be largely foliage dwellers, unlike most of their continental relatives.
["Classification"]

A new noctuid genus and species (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Amphipyrinae, Psaphidini, Triocnemidina) from New Mexico and Texas, United States of America
Poolea gen. nov. is described for two noctuid species from southwestern United States: Poolea grandimacula Barnes & McDunnough, comb. nov., previously in Oxycnemis Grote, and Poolea psaphidoides sp. nov. Poolea is compared to Oxycnemis (Amphipyrinae, Psaphidini, Triocnemidina) and is retained in the same subtribe. Adult moths and male and female genitalia of Poolea species are illustrated along with those of Oxycnemis advena Grote, the genus type species. Pertinent recent taxonomic changes to Amphipyrinae classification are reviewed.
["Chihuahuan desert"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Ant-eating spiders from Xizang, China (Araneae, Zodariidae)
Six species of the ant-eating spider of the family Zodariidae are described from Xizang, China, including five new species: Asceua chayu sp. nov. (♀), A. dawai sp. nov. (♂♀), Mallinella migu sp. nov. (♂), M. mеdog sp. nov. (♂♀), and M. yadong sp. nov. (♂♀). The female of Cydrela linzhiensis (Hu, 2001) is described here for the first time. Descriptions and photographs of all the species are provided.

Two new species of the genus Cheiracanthium C. L. Koch, 1839 (Araneae, Cheiracanthiidae) from China
Two species of the long-legged sac spider genus Cheiracanthium C. L. Koch, 1839 collected from China are diagnosed and described as new to science: Cheiracanthium bannaensis sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan Province and C. bifurcatum sp. nov. (♂♀) from Xinjiang Uyger Autonomous Region. Photos of the habitus and copulatory organs are given. In addition, DNA barcode information of the two new species is provided.

Rediscovery of Lycodon gammiei (Blanford, 1878) (Serpentes, Colubridae) in Xizang, China, with comments on its systematic position
Lycodon gammiei (Blanford, 1878), a rarely encountered species of Asian snake, is characterized by ambiguous systematics and biology. Based on a sole specimen of L. gammiei rediscovered in southeastern Xizang, China, we conduct a detailed morphological examination and description, and investigate the systematic position of this species. Morphologically, the newly collected specimen is closely aligned with specimens previously described. Mitochondrial DNA-based phylogenetic analyses reveal that L. gammiei constitutes an independent evolutionary lineage, forming a clade with L. fasciatus (Anderson, 1879), L. gongshan Vogel & Luo, 2011, L. butleri Boulenger, 1900, and L. cavernicolus Grismer, Quah, Anuar, Muin, Wood & Nor, 2014. The closest genetic distance between L. gammiei and its congeners was 10.2%. The discovery of L. gammiei in Medog County, China, signifies an eastward expansion of its known geographical distribution.
["Himalayas"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

New species and records of Hybos Meigen (Diptera, Empidoidea) from Huaping National Nature Reserve, China
In this study, 21 species of Hybos Meigen, 1803 are reviewed in Huaping National Nature Reserve, China. Among these, three species, i.e., Hybos denticulatus sp. nov., Hybos forcipata sp. nov. and H. paraterminalis sp. nov., are described as new to science. In addition, nine known species of this genus are reported for the first time in Guangxi. All the known species were enumerated, and an identification key to the species of Hybos from Huaping National Nature Reserve based on morphological characteristics is provided.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

New data on bioacoustics and courtship behaviour in grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Gomphocerinae) from Russia and adjacent countries
The songs of seven grasshopper species of subfamily Gomphocerinae from Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, and Kazakhstan were studied. We analysed not only the sound, but also the stridulatory movements of the hind legs to more entirely describe the songs. In Mesasippus kozhevnikovi, Chorthippus macrocerus, and C. hammarstroemi, the legs are moved in a relatively simple pattern; four other species, Myrmeleotettix palpalis, Stenobothrus newskii, C. pullus, and Megaulacobothrus aethalinus demonstrate more complex leg movements. In six of the seven species studied, the courtship songs contain more sound elements than the calling songs. The highest number of courtship sound elements was found in M. palpalis and M. aethalinus. The different parts of a remarkably long stridulatory file in M. aethalinus are thought to participate in the production of different sound elements. The songs in S. newskii are shown for the first time. This species produces sound not only by common stridulation but also by wing beats. A relationship of S. newskii to some other species of the genus Stenobothrus, which are able to crepitate, is discussed. We also analyse the frequency spectra of the songs. A maximum energy of the song power spectra in six species studied lies in ultrasound range (higher than 20 kHz). In only M. aethalinus, the main peaks in the song power spectra lie lower than 20 kHz. The courtship behaviour in M. palpalis, C. macrocerus, and C. hammarstroemi was shown to include conspicuous visual display (movements of antennae, palps and the whole body).
["Calling song"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A camouflaged diversity: taxonomic revision of the thorny lacewing subfamily Symphrasinae (Neuroptera, Rhachiberothidae)
Species of the thorny lacewing subfamily Symphrasinae (Neuroptera: Rhachiberothidae) are revised. Prior to this work, 42 species were known in the genera Anchieta Navás, 1909, Plega Navás, 1928, and Trichoscelia Westwood, 1852. Herein, the number of species is increased to 60, 23 of which are newly described. Species previously known are redescribed, and their taxonomic status is revised. Keys, diagnoses, and high-resolution images for all species are presented. The distribution range of Anchieta is now known from Costa Rica to southern Brazil with a total of 11 species, of which three are newly described. The genus Plega is known from southwestern United States to southern Brazil and includes 28 species of which 14 are described as new. Moreover, the genus Trichoscelia occurs from central and southern Mexico to Argentina, with a total of 21 species, of which six are herein newly described. A phylogenetic analysis of Symphrasinae based on morphological characters recovered the three symphrasine genera as monophyletic, with Anchieta sister to Plega + Trichoscelia. The three genera are newly diagnosed based on a cladistic framework. Within the genus Anchieta, bee-mimicking species comprise a monophyletic group, while wasp-mimicking species form a laddered sequence to that lineage. Within Plega, three lineages are recovered, the first mostly composed of South and Mesoamerican species, the second with species predominantly from Central America and central and southern Mexico, and a third clade encompassing species mostly from central and northern Mexico and southwestern United States. By contrast, relationships between species of Trichoscelia were poorly resolved because of a simplified and conserved morphology of this group.
["Lacewings"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Checklist of land snail species of Gua Rumbang, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo (Mollusca, Gastropoda), with a description of a new species, Diplommatina rumbangensis sp. nov.
The current study presents an annotated checklist of the land snail species in the vicinity of the limestone hill of Gua (= cave) Rumbang, an outcrop located at the district of Padawan, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. The sampling was conducted at the surrounding areas and near the cave’s entrance. A total of 62 species, involving 19 families and 38 genera, were recorded. Comparison with previous surveys made in the Bau limestone hills revealed similarities with respect to the species-rich families Diplommatinidae and Cyclophoridae, and the genera Kaliella and Diplommatina, highlighting the regional consistency of the land snail diversity of the Bau-Padawan-Serian cluster. Possibly because of its smaller size, Gua Rumbang is home to two endemic species, while there are eight endemic species in the Bau limestone karsts. This suggests a potential for a significant species diversity within the areas of the limestone ranges that remain to be explored. Nonetheless, the occurrence of endemic species in Gua Rumbang highlights the need to conserve certain areas within the Padawan limestone range since hitherto no protected areas have been proposed in this region. In this checklist, a new species for science is also described, namely, Diplommatina rumbangensis sp. nov.
["Endemism"]

A new troglomorphic species of Larca (Pseudoscorpiones, Larcidae) from Colorado
A new species of Larca is described from dry habitats in a cave in central Colorado. Like other cave-dwelling species of Larca, the new species Larca boulderica sp. nov., shows relatively modest morphological adaptations, such as pale colouration and slightly elongated appendages, compared with their epigean counterparts. This species is the sixth cave-dwelling species of Larca described from North America and, like other cave-dwelling Larca in North America and Europe, tends to be distributed in more southerly regions.
["morphology"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

A review of Nearctic Lathrobium (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae), with revision and descriptions of new flightless species from the mountains of the southeastern U.S.
Species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Paederinae) from North America north of Mexico are reviewed and 41 species are recognized. Morphology and mitochondrial COI sequence data were used to guide species designations in three flightless lineages endemic to the southern Appalachian Mountains, a biologically diverse region known for cryptic diversity. Using a combination of phylogeny, algorithm-based species delimitation analyses, and genitalic morphology, five new cryptic species are described and possible biogeographic scenarios for their speciation hypothesized: L. balsamense Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov., L. camplyacra Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov., L. islae Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov., L. lividum Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov., L. smokiense Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov. Five additional species are described: L. absconditum Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov., L. hardeni Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov., L. lapidum Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov., L. solum Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov., and L. thompsonorum Haberski & Caterino, sp. nov. Two species are transferred from Lathrobium to Pseudolathra Casey: Pseudolathra parcum (LeConte, 1880), comb. nov. and Pseudolathra texana (Casey, 1905), comb. nov. Twenty-six names are reduced to synonymy. Lectotypes are designated for 47 species. Larvae are described where known, and characters of possible diagnostic value are summarized. Species diagnoses, distributions, illustrations of male and female genitalia, and a key to Lathrobium species known from the Nearctic region (including several introduced species) are provided.
["Appalachian Mountains"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Clavigeritae (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) of the Arabian Peninsula with the description of a new species of Corynotopsis Jeannel, 1951 from Oman
Corynotopsis omanicus sp. nov. of the myrmecophilous supertribe Clavigeritae is described from Oman. The type series was collected at night and the ant host species remains unknown. Corynotopsis scotti Jeannel, 1951 is newly recorded for Yemen, and Commatocerus concinnus Besuchet & Cuccodoro, 2011 for Oman. Lasius Fabricius, 1804 and Lepisiota Santschi, 1926 are, for the first time, determined as hosts of the latter species. The problematic taxonomic status of Corynotopsis scotti is discussed. A distribution map of all Clavigeritae known from the Arabian Peninsula is provided.
["Articerodes"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A taxonomic study of Cheiloneurus Westwood (Hymenoptera, Encyrtidae) from China
Fourteen species of Cheiloneurus from China are studied. Cheiloneurus guangxiensis Zu, sp. nov., is described as new to science, and C. boldyrevi Trjapitzin & Agekyan, 1978, C. bouceki Anis & Hayat, 2002, C. gonatopodis Perkins, 1906, and C. hadrodorys Anis & Hayat, 2002 are newly recorded from China. A key to Chinese species based on females is also presented.
["Chalcidoidea"]
["Research on scale insects", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Five new epigean Lagynochthonius species (Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae) from southern China
Five new Lagynochthonius species of the pseudoscorpion family Chthoniidae are described, based on morphological characters: Lagynochthonius duo sp. nov., Lagynochthonius gibbus sp. nov., Lagynochthonius hepingensis sp. nov., Lagynochthonius houi sp. nov., and Lagynochthonius sanhuaensis sp. nov. All specimens were collected from epigean habitats in southern China.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Next step in Monacha cantiana (Montagu, 1803) phylogeography: northern French and Dutch populations (Eupulmonata, Stylommatophora, Hygromiidae)
Features of shell and genitalia as well as nucleotide sequences of selected mitochondrial and nuclear genes of specimens of Monacha cantiana from ten northern French and two Dutch populations were compared with the same features of British and Italian populations. They were found to be very similar to populations previously identified as belonging to the CAN-1 lineage of M. cantiana. This confirms previous suggestions that M. cantiana was introduced to western Europe (England, France and the Netherlands) in historical times.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

An updated synthesis of the Geophilomorpha (Chilopoda) of Asian Russia
A comprehensive overview of the state of knowledge on the Chilopoda Geophilomorpha of the Asian part of Russia is presented, based on the critical revision of all published morphological descriptions and all geographical records. Revised diagnoses for all the 38 nominal species so far reported from Asian Russia are given, with comments on their validity. Among them a total of 18 species are recorded only from this region and many of them from a single locality only. The species belong to Geophilidae s. l., (in the genera Arctogeophilus, Geophilus, Pachymerium, and Strigamia), Schendylidae (Escaryus), and Mecistocephalidae (Agnostrup, Arrup, and Tygarrup). At least two species have been introduced, namely Geophilus flavus and Tygarrup javanicus. The history of studies on the Geophilomorpha in the Asian part of Russia are also summarized.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Redescription of the enigmatic myriapod Hanseniella chilensis (Hansen, 1903) (Symphyla, Scutigerellidae) based on scanning electron microscope images of Chilean specimens
Hanseniella chilensis is the only myriapod of the class Symphyla known from Chile. This garden centipede, or pseudocentipede, was described more than 120 years ago based on morphologically incomplete specimens collected in central Chile, a well-known biodiversity hotspot. In this study, we redescribe this species based on morphologically complete specimens collected near the type locality using scanning electron microscope images. Our study provides the description of diagnostic characters hitherto unknown in this species such as macrochaetae of the tergites and spinnerets of the cerci. We also include a new record from central Chile and discuss the presumed presence of this species in Argentina and Madagascar.
["Biodiversity hotspot"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Habrophorula from Vietnam and an updated key to species of the genus (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
The rare bee genus Habrophorula Lieftinck, 1974 is recorded for the first time from Vietnam. The genus is represented by a new species, Habrophorula belladeceptrix Tran, Engel & Nguyen, sp. nov., from Cao Bang Province and can be most easily confused with H. nigripes Wu from China. The species is most easily differentiated by the unique form of the male terminalia but can also be distinguished by differences in integumental and setal coloration. A revised key is provided to the species of the genus. Females of the new species were collected at flowers of Saurauia roxburghii Wall. and Saurauia napaulensis DC. (Actinidiaceae); males were collected at flowers of Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae).
["Anthophorini"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Taxonomic position of holothurian Eupentacta fraudatrix (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea)
Samples of the holothurian Eupentacta fraudatrix (Djakonov & Baranova in Djakonov, Baranova & Saveljeva, 1958) from the Sea of Japan were studied and the relationships of the genera Eupentacta and Sclerodactyla, as well as related taxa, were evaluated on the basis of phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial DNA COI and 16S rRNA genes. Using three methods, phylogenetic trees were constructed, and the degree of reliability of topological reconstructions was estimated by means of a nonparametric bootstrap test for the neighbor joining (NJ) and maximum likelihood (ML) techniques, as well as by a posteriori probability for Bayesian inference (BI) analysis. Genetic data confirm the validity of the assignment of Cucumaria fraudatrix to the genus Eupentacta Deichmann, 1938. The study of sequences obtained from the holothurian specimens collected in Russian waters, near the city of Vladivostok, and determined by morphological characters clearly indicate that these specimens belong to the genus Eupentacta and are assigned as E. fraudatrix . The specimens from China in GenBank named as Sclerodactyla multipes and used in the present study, were likely misidentified, and after re-examination they may be assigned to the genus Eupentacta, either as E. fraudatrix or another taxon. Analyses of morphological characters of S. multipes unequivocally affirm that this species must be excluded from Sclerodactyla Ayres, 1851 and is provisionally assigned to the genus Sclerothyone Thandar, 1989 based on the external morphological characters and the body wall ossicles.
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new genus and three new species of Hahniidae (Araneae) from China
A new genus of comb-tailed spider (Hahniidae), Sinahahnia gen. nov., is described based on three new species from the high-altitude areas of China: Sinahahnia eyu sp. nov. (♂♀, Chongqing and Hubei), S. fanjingshan sp. nov. (♂♀, Guizhou), and S. yintiaoling sp. nov. (♀, Chongqing). Digital images, illustrations, and a distribution map are provided.
["Comb-tailed spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new species of Hemiphyllodactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from southwest Yunnan, China
A new species of gekkonid, Hemiphyllodactylus gengmaensis sp. nov., is described based on six specimens from Gengma Dai and Wa Autonomous County, Yunnan, China. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a significant genetic divergence of greater than 9.7% in the mitochondrial ND2 gene and a combination of the following characters: a maximum SVL of 43.24mm; 8 or 9 chin scales; six circumnasal scales; 2 or 3 internasal scales; 9–11 supralabial scales; 8 or 9 infralabial scales; 11–18 dorsal scales; 8–10 ventral scales; a manual lamellar formula of 5–5–5–4 or 5–6–5–4 and a pedal lamellar formula of 5–5–6–5; 20–25 precloacal and femoral pore-bearing scales contiguous in males; dark postorbital stripes or striping on body; dark dorsal transverse blotches present; and a brown postsacral mark bearing anteriorly projecting arms. The discovery of this new species brings the number of Hemiphyllodactylus species in China to 15.
["Gengma Dai and Wa Autonomous County"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

Divergence of the freshwater sleeper, Neodontobutis hainanensis (Chen, 1985) (Teleostei, Odontobutidae), in the Pearl River basin and on Hainan Island of southern China
Study of divergence of freshwater fish populations between island and adjacent mainland areas can shed light on the phylogeographical relationships of these regions. Neodontobutis hainanensis is a freshwater fish species restricted to Hainan Island and in Guangdong and Guangxi provinces in the southern mainland China. We examine the phylogenetic relationship and population structure of N. hainanensis based on 3,176 nuclear loci using a gene-capture method. STRUCTURE analysis and principal coordinate analyses (PCA) indicate that populations from Guangdong, Guangxi and Hainan are each distinct, except that some individuals of the Guangdong population share minor genetic components with individuals of the Guangxi population. In the concatenated gene tree, the Hainan population is grouped with the Guangdong population, but the coalescent tree groups the Hainan population as the sister to the Guangxi population. Finally, coalescent simulations confirmed the divergence pattern supported by the coalescent tree and revealed a one-way introgression from the Guangxi population to the Guangdong population, which can explain the discordant results supported by the concatenated and coalescent phylogenetic analyses. Due to recent decline of N. hainanensis populations and the genetic patterns in this species, as revealed in this study, the populations in the three areas should be treated as separate conservation units.
["Gene flow"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

New species and other new records of the family Mycetophilidae (Insecta, Diptera) from Morocco
Twelve species in nine genera of Mycetophilidae are newly recorded from Morocco and from North Africa. Five species are described as new to science: Rymosia ebejeri sp. nov., Leia arcana sp. nov., Megophthalmidia amsemlili sp. nov., Mycomya mira sp. nov., and Phthinia snibbypinsae sp. nov. Three species are newly recorded from Gibraltar.
["Fungus gnats"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Leptanilla voldemort sp. nov., a gracile new species of the hypogaeic ant genus Leptanilla (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from the Pilbara, with a key to Australian Leptanilla
The genus Leptanilla Emery, 1870 of the family Formicidae, subfamily Leptanillinae, comprises miniscule, pale, blind ants that are rarely collected and poorly understood due to their hypogaeic (i.e. underground) lifestyles. Here we describe a new Leptanilla species from two workers collected via subterranean scraping in the arid Pilbara region of Western Australia. Leptanilla voldemort sp. nov. is the second leptanilline species documented in Australia after the elusive Leptanilla swani Wheeler, 1932. Workers of L. voldemort sp. nov. display a remarkably gracile morphology characterised by elongated legs, antennae, and mandibles, and they are easily differentiated from other Leptanilla species. We also provide new measurements for L. swani from two workers found proximally to the type locality of L. voldemort sp. nov. A key to the worker caste of Leptanilla species of the Australian continent is presented.
["Australia"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Revision of the Chinese Pachynotus Kollar & L. Redtenbacher, 1844 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), with descriptions of two new species
The Chinese species of the highland weevil genus Pachynotus is revised, including a single known species, P. lampoglobus Chao & Y.-Q. Chen, 1980, and the descriptions of two new species, P. pilosus sp. nov. and P. arcuatus sp. nov. All Chinese Pachynotus species occur in Xizang (Tibet), China, and a key to these species is presented. Additionally, the COI sequences of two species, P. lampoglobus and P. pilosus sp. nov., are provided, with details of the genetic distance.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Zhangixalus thaoae sp. nov., a new green treefrog species from Vietnam (Anura, Rhacophoridae)
We describe a new treefrog species from Lao Cai Province, northwestern Vietnam. The new species is assigned to the genus Zhangixalus based on a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) dorsum green, smooth; body size medium (SVL 30.1–32.2 in males); (2) fingers webbed; tips of digits expanded into large disks, bearing circum-marginal grooves; (3) absence of dermal folds along limbs; (4) absence of supracloacal fold and tarsal projection. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by: (1) dorsal surface of the head and body green without spots; (2) axilla and groin cream with a black blotch; (3) ventral cream without spot; (4) chin creamy with grey marbling; anterior part of the thigh and ventral surface of tibia orange without spots; posterior parts of thigh orange with a large black blotch; (5) ventral side of webbing orange with some grey pattern (6) iris red-bronze, pupils black; (7) finger webbing formula I1¼-1¼II1-2III1-1IV, toe webbing formula I½-½II0-1½III¼-1¾IV1¾-½V. Phylogenetically, the new species is nested in the same subclade as Z. jodiae, Z. pinglongensis, and Z. yaoshanensis, with genetic distances ranging from 3.23% to 4.68%. The new species can be found in evergreen montane tropical forests at an elevation of about 1,883 m a.s.l. This new discovery brings the number of known genus Zhangixalus species to 42 and the number of species reported from Vietnam to 10.
["16S rRNA gene"]

Hidden in the riffles: A new suckermouth catfish (Mochokidae, Chiloglanis) from the middle Zambezi River system, Zimbabwe
The recent surge in the discovery of hidden diversity within rheophilic taxa, particularly in West and East Africa, prompted a closer examination of the extent to which the current taxonomy may obscure the diversity of riffle-dwelling suckermouth catfishes in the genus Chiloglanis in southern Africa. Currently, the region comprises eight valid species within this genus. Seven of them have relatively narrow geographic distribution ranges except for C. neumanni, which is considered to be widely distributed, occurring from the Buzi River system in the south, and its northern limit being the eastward draining river systems in Tanzania. Recent surveys of the middle Zambezi River system revealed Chiloglanis specimens that were distinguishable from the known species of the genus from southern Africa. Integration of molecular and morphological data indicated that these specimens from the Mukwadzi River represent a new species to science, herein described as Chiloglanis carnatus Mutizwa, Bragança & Chakona, sp. nov. This species is readily distinguished from its southern African congeners by the possession of a distinctive extended dermal tissue covering the base of the dorsal fin and the possession of ten mandibular teeth (vs 8, 12, or 14 in the other taxa). Results from this study add to the growing evidence of a high level of undocumented diversity within riffle-dwelling taxa in southern Africa.
["Diversity"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Mitochondrial genome data provide insights into the phylogenetic relationships within Triplophysa dalaica (Kessler, 1876) (Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae)
Due to the detrimental effect of formaldehyde on DNA, ethanol has replaced formalin as the primary preservative for animal specimens. However, short-term formalin fixation of specimens might be applied during field collection. In an increasing number of studies, DNA extraction and sequencing have been successfully conducted from formalin-fixed specimens. Here the DNA from five specimens of Triplophysa dalaica (Kessler, 1876) were extracted and performed high-throughput sequencing. Four of the specimens underwent short-term fixation with formalin and were subsequently transferred to ethanol. One was continuously stored in ethanol. No significant difference of DNA quality and amount were observed among these samples. Followed by assembly and annotation, five mitochondrial genomes ranging in length from 16,569 to 16,572 bp were obtained. Additionally, previously published data of other individuals or species were included to perform phylogenetic analyses. In the reconstructed trees, all eight individuals of T. dalaica form a monophyletic group within the Triplophysa branch. The group is divided into three clades: (1) samples from the Yellow River, (2) those from the Yangtze River, and (3) those from the Haihe River, and the Lake Dali Nur. This study sheds initial light on the phylogeographic relationships among different populations of T. dalaica, and will support the research about its evolutionary history in the future.
["High-throughput sequencing"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Revisionary notes on the genus Aulacocentrum Brues (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Macrocentrinae) from Vietnam
This paper contains descriptions and illustrations of five new species of the genus Aulacocentrum Brues, 1922, from Vietnam, viz. Aulacocentrum assitum Long & Pham, sp. nov.; A. glabrum Long, sp. nov.; A. imparum Long & van Achterberg, sp. nov.; A. intermedium Long & van Achterberg, sp. nov.; and A. simulatum Long, sp. nov. Additionally, Aulacocentrum seticella van Achterberg & He is newly recorded for Vietnam’s braconid fauna. A checklist and a key to the Oriental and East Palaearctic Aulacocentrum species is provided and the in-country distribution of the Vietnamese species is given.
["Australasian"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Two new species of the mealybug genus Paracoccus from Jiangxi, South China (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae)
Two new mealybug species, Paracoccus gillianwatsonae Zhang, sp. nov. and P. wui Zhang, sp. nov., collected from Jiangxi, South China, are described and illustrated based on the morphology of adult females. Paracoccus gillianwatsonae is similar to P. burnerae (Brain, 1915), but it differs in having fewer pairs of cerarii, and in lacking both ventral oral collar tubular ducts on the margins of the head and translucent pores on the hind femur. Paracoccus wui resembles P. keralae Williams, 2004 and P. neocarens (Lit, 1992), but it differs in lacking ventral oral collar tubular ducts on the margins of the head and in having multilocular disc-pores usually in double rows at the posterior edges of abdominal segments V and VI. A key to the Paracoccus species found in China is provided.
["Dalbergia hupeana"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

New records of rove beetles from the Province of Quebec, and additional provincial records in Canada (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
We newly report 25 provincial records of rove beetles (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) from the province of Quebec from the following subfamilies: Steninae (1), Euaesthetinae (1), Omaliinae (2), Oxyporinae (1), Paederinae (1), Proteininae (1), Pselaphinae (2), Scaphidiinae (2), Scydmaeninae (2), Staphylininae (11) and Tachyporinae (1). Among these, two species are also reported for the first time from Ontario, two from Nova Scotia, and five are new Canadian records. We also report the first supporting data for Sunius melanocephalus (Fabricius, 1792) and Scopaeus minutus Erichson, 1840 for Quebec, and of Arpedium schwarzi Fauvel, 1878, Phyllodrepa punctiventris (Fauvel, 1878), and Sepedophilus basalis (Erichson, 1839) for Ontario. Specimen data and diagnoses are provided for each species, as well as references for identification where available.
["Euaesthetinae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Two new records and description of a new Perinereis (Annelida, Nereididae) species for the Saudi Arabian Red Sea region
Annelid biodiversity studies in the Red Sea are limited and integrative taxonomy is needed to accurately improve reference libraries in the region. As part of the bioblitz effort in Saudi Arabia to assess the invertebrate biodiversity in the northern Red Sea and Gulf of Aqaba, Perinereis specimens from intertidal marine and lagoon-like rocky environments were selected for an independent assessment, given the known taxonomic ambiguities in this genus. This study used an integrative approach, combining molecular with morphological and geographic data. Our results demonstrate that specimens found mainly in the Gulf of Aqaba are not only morphologically different from other five similar Perinereis Group I species reported in the region, but phylogenetic analysis using available COI sequences from GenBank revealed different molecular operational taxonomic units, suggesting an undescribed species, P. kaustiana sp. nov. The new species is genetically close and shares a similar paragnath pattern to the Indo-Pacific distributed P. helleri, in particular in Area III and Areas VII–VIII. Therefore, we suggest it may belong to the same species complex. However, P. kaustiana sp. nov. differs from the latter mainly in the shorter length of the postero-dorsal tentacular cirri, median parapodia with much longer dorsal Tentacular cirri, posteriormost parapodia with much wider and greatly expanded dorsal ligules. Additionally, two new records are reported for the Saudi Neom area belonging to P. damietta and P. suezensis, previously described only for the Egyptian coast (Suez Canal) and are distributed sympatrically with the new species, but apparently not sympatric with each other.
["Gulf of Aqaba"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new loach species of the genus Oreonectes (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae) from Guangxi, China
A new loach species, Oreonectes andongensis sp. nov. is described from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. The new species can be differentiated from other members of the genus by combinations of characters: a developed posterior chamber of the swim bladder, 13–14 branched caudal-fin rays, 8–16 lateral-line pores, body width 12–15% of standard length (SL), interorbital width 42–47% of head length (HL), and caudal peduncle length 11–16% of SL. Bayesian inference phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial Cyt b provided strong support for validity of O. andongensis sp. nov. (uncorrected p-distance 6.0–7.5%).
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new species of freshwater snail of Fenouilia (Gastropoda, Pomatiopsidae) from northern Guangxi, China, based on morphological and DNA evidence
A new species of pomatiopsid freshwater snail, Fenouilia undata Chen & He, sp. nov., is described from Guangxi, China, based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characters: shell with low, prosocline, rounded axial ribs and fine spiral striae, broader than high; aperture broader than shell height; radula with lateral teeth have only two or three faint, wavy ridges on inner side. A molecular analysis of partial mitochondrial COI and 16S DNA sequences supports the systematic position of the new taxon.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Revalidation of the jumping spider genus Cheliceroides Żabka, 1985 based on molecular and morphological data (Araneae, Salticidae)
The monotypic genus Cheliceroides Żabka, 1985 is revalidated based on both molecular sequence data (ultra-conserved elements and protein coding genes of mitochondrial genomes) and morphological evidence. Our molecular phylogenetic analyses show that Cheliceroides is not closely related to Colopsus Simon, 1902, not even in the same tribe, and a comparative morphological study also demonstrates significant differences in the genital structures (i.e. in the shape of embolus, and with or without pocket on epigynum) of the two genera. Therefore, we remove Cheliceroides from the synonymy of Colopsus, and its generic status is revalidated.
["Colopsus"]

Two new species of the Cnemaspis galaxia complex (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from the eastern slopes of the southern Western Ghats
Two new species allied to Cnemaspis galaxia are described from the eastern slopes of the south Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, India. Both new species are members of the ornata subclade within the beddomei clade. The two new species can be easily distinguished from all other members of the beddomei clade and each other by a combination of nonoverlapping morphological characters such as small body size, distinct colouration of both sexes, the number of dorsal tubercles around the body, the number or arrangement of paravertebral tubercles, the number of midventral scales across the belly and longitudinal ventral scales from mental to cloaca, besides uncorrected pairwise ND2 and 16S sequence divergence of ≥ 7.4% and ≥ 2.7%. The two new species are distributed from low elevation, deciduous forests of Srivilliputhur, and add to the five previously known endemic vertebrates from Srivilliputhur-Megamalai Tiger Reserve.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Back to the future: A preserved specimen validates the presence of Molossus pretiosus (Molossidae, Chiroptera) in Honduras
Molossus pretiosus is a molossid bat that has been thought to exist in Honduras. While some authors have suggested its range extends all the way to Mexico, others have placed its northernmost distribution in Nicaragua. We present evidence, based on one specimen collected in 2005, confirming the presence of this species in the Caribbean of Honduras within the Islas de la Bahía department. This discovery increases the count of known species within this family to 18 in the country and raises the total bat species count for Honduras to 114. We recommend a detailed study of historical specimens to confirm the identification of species that may have been misidentified as well as a thorough examination of molossids distributed in northern Honduras.
["Bat diversity"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New species of redbait from the Philippines (Teleostei, Emmelichthyidae, Emmelichthys)
We describe a new species of redbait in the genus Emmelichthys collected from fish markets on Panay and Cebu islands in the Visayas region of the Philippines. The species is externally similar to E. struhsakeri but is diagnosable by two prominent fleshy papillae associated with the cleithrum and fewer pectoral-fin rays (18–19 vs. 19–21) and gill rakers (30–33 vs. 34–41). Additionally, mitochondrial DNA differentiates this taxon from other species of Emmelichthys. We generate mitochondrial genomes for two of the three type specimens and several other emmelichthyids to place the new taxon in a phylogenetic context. Analysis of the protein-coding mitochondrial loci calls into question the monophyly of two emmelichthyid genera (Emmelichthys and Erythrocles) and highlights the need for subsequent analyses targeting the intrarelationships of the Emmelichthyidae.

The arboreal snail genus Amphidromus Albers, 1850 (Eupulmonata, Camaenidae) of Southeast Asia: 1. Molecular systematics of some Vietnamese species and related species from Cambodia, Indonesia, and Laos
This paper reassesses the taxonomy and systematics of 11 arboreal snail species in the genus Amphidromus from Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and Laos (A. bozhii Wang, 2019, A. buelowi Fruhstorfer, 1905, A. costifer Smith, 1893, A. haematostoma Möllendorff, 1898, A. ingens Möllendorff, 1900, A. madelineae Thach, 2020, A. metabletus Möllendorff, 1900, A. pankowskianus Thach, 2020, A. placostylus Möllendorff, 1900, A. roseolabiatus Fulton, 1896, and A. thachi Huber, 2015). The taxonomic validity of each species is supported by a phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial COI and 16S rRNA gene fragments from 17 ingroup taxa. Amphidromus buelowi was found to comprise two populations from two distant localities, one from Mount Singgalang, West Sumatra, Indonesia and the other from southern Vietnam. The samples from southern Vietnam were previously described as A. asper Haas, 1934 and A. franzhuberi Thach, 2016, but they are now treated as junior synonyms of A. buelowi in this study. In addition, two species from Vietnam are described as new to science, viz. A. asperoides Jirapatrasilp & Lee, sp. nov. and A. ingensoides Jirapatrasilp & Lee, sp. nov., each of which is conchologically comparable to A. buelowi and A. ingens, respectively.

Four new species of Anyphaena Sundevall, 1833 from Xizang, China (Araneae, Anyphaenidae)
Four new species of the genus Anyphaena Sundevall, 1833 collected from Xizang, China, are described: A. cibagou Wang & Mi, sp. nov. (♂♀), A. linzhi Wang & Mi, sp. nov. (♂♀), A. shufui Wang & Mi, sp. nov. (♀) and A. yejiei Wang & Mi, sp. nov. (♀). Diagnostic photos of the habitus and copulatory organs and a distributional map are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A review of the semipunctata species group within the genus Lilioceris Reitter, 1913 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae)
A new species group of Lilioceris Reitter, 1913 is proposed and reviewed, the semipunctata group. It includes eleven species: L. atrilateralis Kimoto & Takizawa, 1973, L. consentanea (Lacordaire, 1845), L. dentifemoralis Long, 1988, L. discrepens (Baly, 1879), L. jianfenglingensis Long, 1988, L. latissima (Pic, 1932), L. lianzhouensis Long, 2000a, L. rondoni Kimoto & Gressitt, 1979, L. rufometallica (Pic, 1923), L. semipunctata (Fabricius, 1801), and L. yuae Long, 2000b. Lilioceris discrepens and L. rondoni were new records from China. Two synonyms are proposed: Lilioceris xinglongensis Long, 1988, syn. nov. of L. consentanea (Lacordaire, 1845), and Crioceris rufimembris Pic, 1921, syn. nov. of L. semipunctata. An identification key, descriptions, habitus photographs, geographic distributions, host plants and habitats (if available), are provided for these species.
["Criocerinae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Three new species and one new record of Deimatidae (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea, Synallactida) discovered in the South China Sea and the Mariana fore-arc area using integrative taxonomic methods
Deep-sea holothurian specimens were collected during five scientific expeditions (2018–2023) using the submersible vehicle ‘Shenhaiyongshi’. Our examination of specimens of Deimatidae from the South China Sea and the Mariana fore-arc area revealed three new species, which were described as Oneirophanta idsseica sp. nov., Oneirophanta brunneannulata sp. nov., and Oneirophanta lucerna sp. nov. These species were distinguished from each other and from congeners by the arrangement, and number of ventrolateral tube feet and ossicle types. We also reported Oneirophanta mutabilis mutabilis Théel, 1879 for the first time from the Mariana fore-arc area, and we recorded Deima validum validum for the second time from the South China Sea. The taxonomy of these new species and new records is discussed, and a phylogenetic analysis based on a concatenated dataset of 16S and COI genes was conducted. Additionally, the inter- and intraspecific genetic divergences we calculated among deimatid species. The results support the assignment of these new species to the genus Oneirophanta and their separation from congeners. A description of the main morphological characters of Oneirophanta species is also provided. The data were collected from geographically diverse areas and suggest that species of Deimatidae were abundant in the Pacific Ocean and occupied a wide range of depths.
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Caribbean Amphipoda (Crustacea) of Panama. Part II: parvorder Hadziidira
Amphipods in the parvorder Hadziidira are typically associated with algae, sponges, or coral rubble. Members of the parvorder have a gnathopod 2 that is stouter than gnathopod 1, a pair of dorsal robust setae on urosomite 2, and a basofacial robust seta on the uropod 1 peduncle. Within the parvorder, six families are documented from Bocas del Toro, Panama, represented by 26 species. This research documents range extensions for all 26 species and an identification key to the species of Caribbean Hadziidira of Panama is provided.
["Bocas del Toro"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Two new species of Orchestina Simon, 1882 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Cangshan Mountain, Yunnan, China
Two new species of Orchestina, O. dapojing Tong & Yang, sp. nov. (♂♀) and O. hyperofrontata Tong & Yang, sp. nov. (♂) are described from Yunnan, China. Descriptions, diagnoses and photographs of habitus and copulatory organs are provided.

A new monotypic genus of cobweb spiders from the Russian Far East (Araneae, Theridiidae)
A new theridiid spider, Knoflachia kurilensis gen. et sp. nov., is described from the Kuril Islands (Kunashir). The new genus belongs to the ‘Anelosimus clade (clade 24)’ of Agnarsson (2004). A pair of raised, fused setal sockets on the cheliceral promargin adjacent to the fang base was found to be another synapomorphy of all the ‘distal theridiids’ (the ‘elongated central claw clade (clade 33)’: argyrodins, ‘Anelosimus clade’ and theridiins). Knoflachia kurilensis sp. nov. demonstrates a male polymorphism similar to some Anelosimus Simon, 1891 species (e.g., A. studiosus (Hentz, 1850)).
["Anelosimus clade"]

Two new ant species of the genus Leptogenys (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Hainan, China, with a key to the known Chinese species
Two new species of ponerine ants from Hainan Province, China, Leptogenys hainanensis sp. nov. and L. zhoui sp. nov., are delineated and depicted based on the worker caste. Leptogenys hainanensis sp. nov. belongs to the L. leleji species group, with mandibles elongate, slender and curved, lacking a distinct masticatory margin. On the other hand, L. zhoui sp. nov. belongs to the L. crassicornis species group, distinguished by its square head, smooth body, mandibles with a dentate masticatory margin, and short antennae. A key to workers for the known species of Leptogenys in China are provided and a map is provided for the newly described species.
["L. crassicornis species group"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Plant and animal studies"]

On Ypsolopha micromoths (Lepidoptera, Ypsolophidae) associated with Adesmia shrubs (Fabaceae) in the arid western slope of the central Andes
Ypsolopha Latreille, 1796 (Lepidoptera, Ypsolophidae) is a genus comprised mostly of Holarctic micromoth species with a fairly broad range of larval hosts (e.g. Aceraceae, Rosaceae, and Fagaceae). The only previous record of herbivory on a representative of the South American genus Adesmia DC. (Fabaceae) was based on the discovery of Ypsolopha moltenii Vargas, 2018 larvae feeding on Adesmia verrucosa Meyen in the Andes of northern Chile. Further surveys revealed Adesmia atacamensis Phil. as another host for Y. moltenii, and Adesmia spinosissima Meyen as the single host of Ypsolopha sp. The genetic distance between DNA barcodes of the two micromoth species was 7.9–8.1% (K2P). These results suggest narrow host ranges for Adesmia-feeding Ypsolopha and highlight the need to further explore the taxonomic diversity of these micromoths in other South American environments.
["Arid environments"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

One new species of Stegocephalus Krøyer, 1842 (Amphipoda, Stegocephalidae) described from a seamount of the Caroline Plate, NW Pacific
A new species of the subfamily Stegocephalinae, Stegocephalus carolus sp. nov., is described from a seamount in the Caroline Plate. Two related species, S. cascadiensis (Moore, 1992) and S. longicornis (Gurjanova, 1962), were previously reported in the North Pacific. Important morphological characters which differentiate S. carolus sp. nov. from S. cascadiensis are found in antenna 1, the mouthparts, pereopod 7 and the length of rami of uropods 2 and 3. The new species differs from S. longicornis by characters of antenna 1, the mouthparts and the shape of epimeral plate 3. Additionally, the morphological differences between the new species and the remaining seven species of Stegocephalus are also presented.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Contributions of a small collection of terrestrial microsnails (Pupilloidea, Hypselostomatidae) from Myanmar with description of three new species
Land snails were collected for the project ‘Conserving Myanmar’s Karst Biodiversity’ from the limestone karsts in Mon, Kayin, and Shan states and in the regions of Tanintharyi and Mandalay between 2015 and 2017, through cooperation with Fauna and Flora International (FFI) and the Forestry Department of Myanmar. Here, we report on a portion of the collection, and list 17 species from seven genera of the Hypselostomatidae microsnails. Three new species from two genera are described as Bensonella taiyaiorum Tongkerd & Panha, sp. nov., B. lophiodera Tongkerd & Panha, sp. nov., and Gyliotrachela aunglini Tongkerd & Panha, sp. nov. All new species are known only from the type locality in Shan State (Bensonella) and Kayin State (Gyliotrachela). A new combination of Acinolaemus dayanum and three newly recorded species, namely A. cryptidentatus, B. anguloobtusa and G. hungerfordiana are discussed. The low morphological variability of the widely distributed G. hungerfordiana is discussed, and two species are proposed for formal synonymisation. Constituting the first records for Myanmar, five species of Bensonella and two species of Acinolaemus were collected.

A new species of the genus Soriculus (Soricidae, Eulipotyphla, Mammalia) from Medog in the eastern Himalaya
Himalayan shrews of the genus Soriculus (Soricidae, Eulipotyphla), currently represented by four nominal species, are endemic to the Himalayas and the Gaoligong Mountains. In April 2022 and April 2023, a total of 10 specimens of Soriculus were collected from Beibeng and Damu, Medog County, Tibet, China. The morphology of the specimens was compared with the four recognised species of the genus Soriculus. Additionally, two mitochondrial (Cyt b and 12S) and three nuclear (APOB, BRCAI and RAG2) genes were sequenced to test the phylogenetic relationships of these specimens with the other species. Our results indicate that these specimens represent a distinct species, Soriculus beibengensis sp. nov., which is formally described here. The new species is distinguished from the other Soriculus species by the combination of darker pelages, smaller size, the relatively stubby nasal and the widened posterior processes of incisors. Phylogenetic analyses revealed the new species is sister to S. minor. The p–distance of Cyt b gene between S. beibengensis sp. nov. and other nominal Soriculus species ranges from 9.1–16.3%. This new species has a known distribution at an elevation of 1,500–2,125 m in Medog County, Tibet, China. The discovery of this new species from Medog County has important implications for interpreting small mammal biogeographic patterns in the eastern Himalaya and the mountain chains of south-west China.
["Phylogeny"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

First mitogenomic characterization of Macromotettixoides (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae), with the descriptions of two new species
Classification of species is commonly based on morphological, molecular, and distribution depending on the taxa. Macromotettixoides Zheng, Wei & Jiang, 2005 and Formosatettix Tinkham, 1937 are both wingless types of Tetrigidae with extremely similar morphological characteristics, and in the current taxonomic system they are placed in two different subfamilies, Metrodorinae and Tetriginae, respectively. It is difficult to clearly identify the species of these two genera by morphological characteristics, and molecular data is often needed to assist identification. Here, the complete mitogenomes of two new species were sequenced and assembled, with that of Macromotettixoides orthomargina. Molecular data of species of Formosatettix were used to test the monophyly of Macromotettixoides and to re-assess the generic characters, and also to test whether Macromotettixoides belongs to the Asian Metrodorinae or Tetriginae. Furthermore, mitochondrial characteristics were analyzed and the phylogeny of the Tetrigidae reconstructed based on mitochondrial protein-coding genes (PCGs). The results indicated that the two new species were clustered with Macromotettixoides rather than Formosatettix, and the anterior margin of the fastigium and pronotum of the two new species usually had the humeral angle different from that of Formosatettix. Therefore, after integrating morphological and molecular data, the two new species were placed in the genus Macromotettixoides, M. maoershanensis sp. nov. and M. brachycorna sp. nov. Finally, a phylogenetic reconstruction supported Macromotettixoides being assigned to Tetriginae rather than Metrodorinae, in contrast to the previous classification of this genus.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Four new species of the genus Xynobius Foerster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Opiinae) from South Korea
Four new species, Xynobius azonius sp. nov., X. brevifemora sp. nov., X. duoferus sp. nov., and X. stipitoides sp. nov., are described and illustrated, and one species X. geniculatus (Thomson, 1895) is newly reported from South Korea. Xynobius geniculatus (Thomson, 1895) is redescribed and illustrated, and a new combination, Xynobius (Stigmatopoea) cubitalis (Fischer, 1959), comb. nov. is suggested. An identification key to the Xynobius species known from South Korea is provided.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new North American species of Etainia (Lepidoptera, Nepticulidae), feeding on Arbutus and Arctostaphylos species (Ericaceae)
Etainia thoraceleuca van Nieukerken, Epstein & Davis, sp. nov. is the second native American species of Etainia Beirne, 1945, and the second known Etainia species feeding on Ericaceae. The species is known from light-collected adults in the USA (California, Arizona) and Canada (Ontario). These were linked via DNA barcodes to larvae that make short leafmines on Arbutus and Arctostaphylos species, then continue feeding in stems and branches, causing damage in nurseries and planted trees in Sonoma and Marin Counties, California. The holotype was accidentally reared from Arbutus arizonica, without observing the damage. Life history and damage are described in detail. Damage in Arctostaphylos uva-ursi found in Washington State probably belongs to E. thoraceleuca, which is a sister species to the European E. albibimaculella (Larsen, 1927).
["Arizona"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Pisachini planthoppers of Vietnam: new records of Pisacha and a new Goniopsarites species from Central Vietnam (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Nogodinidae)
Two planthopper species of the family Nogodinidae are added to the fauna of Vietnam, both from two localities in Thua Thien-Hue Province: Bach Ma National Park and Phong Dien District. The first species belongs to Goniopsarites Meng, Wang & Wang, 2014, G. mientrunganus Constant & Pham, sp. nov., and the second belongs to Pisacha Distant, 1906, P. yinggensis Meng, Wang & Wang, 2014. Pisacha yinggensis was previously recorded from Hainan Island, China. These new records greatly extend the distribution of both genera, which were known from southern China, Hainan and North Vietnam, to the south, reaching the mid area of Central Vietnam. Sexual dimorphism is reported in P. yinggensis for the first time. Illustrations of habitus and male terminalia of the new species are given as well as distribution maps and photographs of live specimens and their habitat. The family Nogodinidae now comprises nine species in Vietnam, with three of them present in Bach Ma National Park.
["Bach Ma National Park"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of the Pholcus phungiformes species group (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Liaoning, China, with identification keys to four closely related species
A new species of pholcid spiders, Pholcus fengmeii Zhang, He & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀), is described from Liaoning Province, China. The new species belongs to the speciose phungiformes species group. Taxonomic keys to four closely related species are provided.

A new species of the genus Scorpiops Peters, 1861, subgenus Euscorpiops Vachon, 1980 from Thailand (Scorpiones, Scorpiopidae)
A new species, Scorpiops (Euscorpiops) krachan sp. nov., belonging to the family Scorpiopidae Kraepelin, 1905 is described based on three adult males and one adult female collected in the Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi Province, Thailand. The new species presents most features exhibited by scorpions of the subgenus Euscorpiops and can be characterized notably by a very small size, a sexual dimorphism strongly marked with male pedipalps elongated, a distinct trichobothrial pattern and other morphological features. This new taxon may represent one endemic element for the scorpion fauna of Thailand. Aspects of the ecology and distribution of the new species are discussed and compared with that of other relative Scorpiops species.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

A new species of Svistella Gorochov, 1987 from Xizang, China (Orthoptera, Trigonidiidae, Trigonidiinae)
The genus Svistella Gorochov, 1987 includes 10 species from Asia, with nine documented in China. In this study, a new species, Svistella yayun He, sp. nov., is described from Xizang, China. Morphologically, it resembles S. rufonotata (Chopard, 1932) but can be distinguished by a smaller inner tympanum, dark-brown setae on the 5th segment of the maxillary palp, and a rounded apex on the ectoparamere. To validate our morphological inferences and support the description of S. yayun sp. nov. as a new species, we performed a PCA based on bioacoustics parameters and molecular analysis. All Svistella species documented in China are distinguished by integrating their songs and DNA barcoding.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Two new species and new host and distribution records of Gnathia Leach, 1814 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Gnathiidae) from Western Australia and the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Gnathia antennacrassa sp. nov. from seagrass beds off Rottnest Island, Western Australia is the first record of any gnathiid from the entirety of Western Australia; the male can be distinguished from congeners by the stout peduncular articles of the antenna. Gnathia taurus sp. nov. is described from two adult specimens reared from praniza larvae found infecting elasmobranch fishes at Heron Island, southern Great Barrier Reef; the males can be distinguished from all congeners by the dorsally strongly elongate mandibles and smoothly rounded mediofrontal process on the anterior part of cephalosome. Gnathia aff. maculosa Ota & Hirose, 2009 is recorded from Australia, together with further records of G. trimaculata Coetzee, Smit, Grutter & Davies, 2009 and G. grandilaris Coetzee, Smit, Grutter & Davies, 2008, all from elasmobranch fishes.
["Coral reefs"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

The solitary wasp genus Orancistrocerus from Vietnam, with descriptions of two new species (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae)
New data are presented for the potter wasp genus Orancistrocerus van der Vecht (Eumeninae, Odynerini) occurring in Vietnam. Two species are described as new to science: Orancistrocerus thanhnhat sp. nov. and O. thanghen sp. nov. Orancistrocerus aterrimus erythropus van der Vecht is synonymized with Orancistrocerus aterrimus aterrimus (de Saussure); the male genitalia of this species are described for the first time. An updated key is presented to all species of the genus.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Discovery of a new species of Synergus (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae, Synergini) based on morphology and molecular data
A new species of gall inquiline, Synergus dilatatus sp. nov., is described from Hubei Province, China. Morphological descriptions, photographs and biological information are provided. Mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase (COI) sequences of the new species were newly obtained and a molecular species delimitation analysis of 12 species of Synergus performed using the ASAP method recovered 16 molecular operational taxonomic units, providing support for recognition of the new species. The results also highlight a few conflicts between morphological and molecular species delimitations in Synergus.
["ASAP"]

Two new species of the order Monhysterida (Nematoda) from the sea of China
Two new marine nematode species belonging to the order Monhysterida are described from the sea of China. Halomonhystera zhangi sp. nov. is characterized by its relatively small body size; short anterior sensory setae; small, circular amphidial fovea located at the level of buccal cavity base; funnel-shaped buccal cavity; an excretory-secretory system with a large ventral gland and opening as a very narrow canal just posterior to the level of cephalic setae; slightly curved slender spicules with cephalated proximal end and tapered distal end; rod-like gubernaculum without apophysis; two papilliform precloacal supplements just in front of the cloaca; conico-cylindrical tail with two ventral papillae, each with a seta; and distance between the vulva and anus slightly longer than the tail length. This is the first new species of epiphytic nematode reported in China. The second new species, Stylotheristus flagellicaudatus sp. nov., has a relatively shorter body and longer tail; striated cuticle; The anterior sensilla arranged in two circles, the first circle consisting of six inner labial setiform papillae (3–4 µm) and the second circle consisting of 16 long setae (12–19 µm); a transversely oval amphideal fovea; a well-developed muscle around the funnel-shaped buccal cavity; short spicules and a gubernaculum composed of a single piece; and precloacal supplements absent. An updated key to all species of Halomonhystera and pictorial key to all species of Stylotheristus are also given.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new genus and three newly recorded species of Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) from China
A new genus and species of Encyrtidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea), Apteronotus Kang, Hu & Luo, gen. nov. (type species A. indigus Kang, Hu & Luo, sp. nov.), associated with insects inhabiting Oxytropis spp., and three newly recorded species for China, Copidosoma clavatum, Ericydnus aeneus and Tetracnemus kozlovi, are described from the Altun Mountain Nature Reserve, Xinjiang. Detailed illustrations of all species were included to support the identification and further study.
["Alpine steppes"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Magnifying the hotspot: descriptions of nine new species of many-plumed moths (Lepidoptera, Alucitidae), with an identification key to all species known from Cameroon
This study confirms Mount Cameroon as an unprecedented hotspot for the diversity of many-plumed moths, with the discovery and description of nine new species: Alucita fako Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita pyrczi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita sroczki Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita potockyi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita sedlaceki Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita tonda Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita erzayi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita sokolovi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., and Alucita hirsuta Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov. Additionally, four additional species are reported from the Mount Cameroon area as new for the country: Alucita agassizi, Alucita dohertyi, Alucita plumigera, and Alucita rhaptica. Of the 89 Alucitidae known from the Afrotropics, the studied area hosts 36 species, most of which are endemic to the area. This unprecedented level of diversity and endemism within this lepidopteran family highlights Mount Cameroon’s significance as a stronghold for specialised insect taxa. Efficient conservation efforts are necessary to protect these ecosystems and their associated unique microlepidopteran diversity.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

Dimorphostylis pilocorpus sp. nov. (Crustacea, Cumacea, Diastylidae), a new cumacean from Korean waters
A new species of Cumacea belonging to the genus Dimorphostylis Zimmer was collected from the Dokdo and Ulleung Islands in the East Sea of Korea. The new species, Dimorphostylis pilocorpus sp. nov., can be distinguished from all other Dimorphostylis species by the combination of the body surface covered with numerous slender simple setae; carapace with one transverse, a pair of frontal, and three pairs of oblique ridges; three pairs of oblique ridges connected on a submedian carina; telson of the female with 1 pair of short simple and 1 short, stout simple seta centrally; 1 pair of stout simple and 3 pairs of short simple setae on the post-anal section; pleonite 5 of male with 1 spiniform seta on the ventral margin; post-anal section with 2 pairs of stout simple setae bearing a single subterminal setule on both sides; terminal margin with 3 stout simple setae; and a central seta slightly longer than the outer pair of setae. Full illustrations of the new species, including the mouthparts, are given in this paper. A key to the Korean species of Dimorphostylis is also provided.
["Cumacea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and Coastal Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

The fourth species of Leptobrachella (Anura, Megophryidae) found at Shiwandashan National Nature Reserve, Guangxi, China
A new species of the genus Leptobrachella, L. guinanensis sp. nov., is described in this study based on morphological, molecular, and bioacoustic data. The species was discovered in the Shiwandashan National Nature Reserve in Shangsi County, Guangxi, China. Phylogenetically, L. guinanensis sp. nov. is closely related to L. ventripunctata. However, there are distinct morphological differences between L. guinanensis sp. nov. and L. ventripunctata, as well as three other sympatric species (L. shangsiensis, L. shiwandashanensis, and L. sungi). These differences include body size (SVL 30.5–32.5 mm in males; 38.7–41.8 mm in females in the new species vs 25.5–28.0 mm in males, 31.5–35.0 mm in females in L. ventripunctata), the absence of brown spots on the ventral surface (vs chest and belly creamy white with many scattered brown spots in L. ventripunctata), 1/3 toe webbing and wide toe lateral fringes (vs no toe webbing and no lateral fringes in L. ventripunctata), and distinct dermal ridges under toes (vs absent in L. ventripunctata). Furthermore, the dominant vocal frequencies of the new species range from 7.3 to 8.3 kHz, which is unique compared to other Leptobrachella species and represents the highest dominant frequencies ever recorded. The Shiwandashan National Nature Reserve is now home to four known sympatric species of Leptobrachella.
["Bioacoustics"]

The mitochondrial genome of Hua aristarchorum (Heude, 1889) (Gastropoda, Cerithioidea, Semisulcospiridae) and its phylogenetic implications
Research on complete mitochondrial genomes can help in understanding the molecular evolution and phylogenetic relationships of various species. In this study, the complete mitogenome of Hua aristarchorum was characterized to supplement the limited mitogenomic information on the genus Hua. Three distinct assembly methods, GetOrganelle, NovoPlasty and SPAdes, were used to ensure reliable assembly. The 15,691 bp mitogenome contains 37 genes and an AT-rich region. Notably, the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COX1) gene, commonly used for species identification, appears to be slow-evolving and less variable, which may suggest the inclusion of rapidly evolving genes (NADH dehydrogenase subunit 6 [ND6] or NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 [ND2]) as markers in diagnostic, detection, and population genetic studies of Cerithioidea. Moreover, we identified the unreliability of annotations (e.g., the absence of annotations for NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4L [ND4L] in NC_037771) and potential misidentifications (NC_023364) in public databases, which indicate that data from public databases should be manually curated in future research. Phylogenetic analyses of Cerithioidea based on different datasets generated identical trees using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. The results confirm that Semisulcospiridae is closely related to Pleuroceridae. The sequences of Semisulcospiridae clustered into three clades, of which H. aristarchorum is one; H. aristarchorum is sister to the other two clades. The findings of this study will contribute to a better understanding of the characteristics of the H. aristarchorum mitogenome and the phylogenetic relationships of Semisulcospiridae. The inclusion of further mitochondrial genome sequences will improve knowledge of the phylogeny and origin of Cerithioidea.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new species of Raorchestes (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from Yunnan Province, China
A new bush frog species is described from Yunnan, China, based on phylogenetic analyses, species delimitation analyses, and morphological comparisons. Raorchestes hekouensis sp. nov. is distinguished from all other congeners by a combination of 11 morphological characters. The new species brings the current number of Raorchestes species in China to ten, nine of which are distributed in Yunnan. Molecular analyses supported an unnamed lineage previously recorded as “Raorchestes gryllus” in northern Vietnam. Further studies including additional samples are necessary to clarify the species diversity and boundaries of Raorchestes in China and Indochina.
["Indochina"]

Two new species of the hyperdiverse geometrid moth genus Eois (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae) from Ecuador, with descriptions of early stages
The hyperdiverse geometrid genus Eois Hübner, estimated to encompass more than 1,000 species, is among the most species-rich genera in all of Lepidoptera. While the genus has attracted considerable attention from ecologists and evolutionary biologists in recent decades, limited progress has been made on its alpha taxonomy. This contribution focuses on the Olivacea clade, whose monophyly has been recognized previously through molecular analyses. We attempt to define the clade from a morphological perspective and recognize the following species based on morphology and genomic data: E. olivacea (Felder & Rogenhofer); E. pseudolivacea Doan, sp. nov.; E. auruda (Dognin), stat. rev.; E. beebei (Fletcher, 1952), stat. rev.; E. boliviensis (Dognin), stat. rev.; and E. parumsimii Doan, sp. nov. Descriptions and illustrations of the immature stages of E. pseudolivacea reared from Piper (Piperaceae) in Ecuador are provided.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

New stenurothripid thrips from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber (Thysanoptera, Stenurothripidae)
Hitherto, only two species of the thysanopteran suborder Terebrantia have been reported from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber (Myanmar). This is here expanded through the discovery of two new genera and species, described and figured as Parallelothrips separatus gen. et sp. nov. and Didymothrips abdominalis gen. et sp. nov., both of the family Stenurothripidae. Both taxa have key apomorphies of the Stenurothripidae, allowing for a confident assignment as to family. Both species have characteristic comb-like anteromarginal setae, which are discussed along with structural differences between the two sexes. Cycad pollen was found on the thrips’ bodies, providing further evidence that Thysanoptera were pollinators of gymnosperms during the mid-Cretaceous.
["Cenomanian"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new feather mite species of the genus Mycterialges Gaud & Atyeo, 1981 (Acari, Xolalgidae) from the Oriental Stork, Ciconia boyciana (Ciconiiformes, Ciconiidae) in Korea
A new feather mite species, Mycterialges boycianae sp. nov. (Xolalgidae), was identified from the Oriental Stork, Ciconia boyciana Swinhoe, 1873, in Korea. Males of M. boycianae sp. nov. are distinguished from Mycterialges mesomorphus Gaud & Atyeo, 1981, in having a single triangular prodorsal shield, sinuous margins of the opisthosoma located between setae e2 and h2 on the hysteronotal shield, an oval-shaped epiandrum without posterior extensions, a shorter tibia + tarsus IV than femoragenu IV, and an absent ambulacral disc of leg IV. Females differ in having a prodorsal shield with a posterior margin that is blunt-angular, and a concave posterior margin of the hysteronotal shield with posterior extensions. This study presents the first record of the feather mite genus Mycterialges in birds of the genus Ciconia (Ciconiidae). Additionally, we determined the phylogenetic relationship among Ingrassiinae using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit (COI).
["Analgoidea"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Eleven species of jumping spiders from Sichuan, Xizang, and Yunnan, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
Ten new species of jumping spiders are described from China, including Attulus jimani sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan, Colaxes cibagou sp. nov. (♂♀), Epeus pengi sp. nov. (♂♀), Evarcha zayu sp. nov. (♂♀), Icius zang sp. nov. (♂♀), Pancorius nyingchi sp. nov. (♂♀), Stertinius liqingae sp. nov. (♂♀), and Synagelides medog sp. nov. (♀) from Xizang, S. tianquan sp. nov. (♂♀), and Yaginumaella erlang sp. nov. (♂♀) from Sichuan. The hitherto unknown female of Phintella longapophysis Lei & Peng, 2013 is described for the first time. Diagnostic photos and the distributional maps for all species are provided. Four new combinations are proposed: Epeus dilucidus (Próchniewicz, 1990), comb. nov., and E. guangxi (Peng & Li, 2002), comb. nov. transferred from Plexippoides Prószyński, 1984, Phintella sufflava (Jastrzębski, 2009), comb. nov. transferred from Carrhotus Thorell, 1891, and Yaginumaella armata (Jastrzębski, 2011), comb. nov. transferred from Pancorius Simon, 1902.
["New combination"]

A crane fly of the genus Gynoplistia Macquart (Diptera, Limoniidae) from the early Miocene of New Zealand
The first fossil limoniid fly from the Miocene Fossil-Lagerstätte of Foulden Maar in New Zealand is described on the basis of an isolated well-preserved wing. The specimen is tentatively attributed to a new species Gynoplistia fouldensensis sp. nov. in the large extant genus Gynoplistia, which is well diversified in the country. It is the second fossil record of this genus, the first one being an isolated wing from the Cretaceous Weald Clay Formation in the United Kingdom.
["Australasia"]
["International Development and Aid", "Global Peace and Security Dynamics", "Human Rights and Development"]

First report of the genus Woonpaikia Park, 2010 (Lepidoptera, Lecithoceridae) from China, with the description of two new species
The lecithocerid genus Woonpaikia Park, 2010 and Woonpaikia angoonae Park, 2010 are newly recorded from China. Woonpaikia similangoonae Yu & Wang, sp. nov. and W. imperspicua Yu & Wang, sp. nov. are described as new to science. Images of adults of the Chinese Woonpaikia species are provided, along with a key to the males of all the known species of Woonpaikia.
["Gelechioidea"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of the Cyrtodactylus chauquangensis species group (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Lao Cai Province, Vietnam
We describe a new species of the genus Cyrtodactylus based on five adult specimens from Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province, northern Vietnam. Cyrtodactylus luci sp. nov. is distinguished from the remaining Indochinese bent-toed geckos by a combination of the following morphological characteristics: medium size (SVL up to 89.5 mm); dorsal tubercles in 17–19 irregular transverse rows; ventral scales in 32–34 longitudinal rows at midbody; precloacal pores present in both sexes, 9 or 10 in males, 8 or 9 in females; 12–15 enlarged femoral scales on each thigh; femoral pores 9–12 in males, 5–10 in females; postcloacal tubercles 2–4; lamellae under toe IV 21–23; dorsal pattern consisting of 5 or 6 irregular dark bands, a thin neckband without V-shape or triangle shape in the middle, top of head with dark brown blotches; subcaudal scales transversely enlarged. Molecular phylogenetic analyses recovered the new species as the sister taxon to C. gulinqingensis from Yunnan Province, China, with strong support from all analyses and the two taxa are separated by approximately 8.87–9.22% genetic divergence based on a fragment of the mitochondrial ND2 gene. This is the first representative of Cyrtodactylus known from Lao Cai Province.
["Cyrtodactylus luci sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

A new odorous frog species of Odorrana (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae) from Guizhou Province, China
The frog genus Odorrana is distributed across east and southeastern Asia. Based on morphological differences and molecular phylogenetics, a new species of the genus occurring from Leigong Mountain in Guizhou Province, China is described. Phylogenetic analyses based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and ND2 genes supported the new species as an independent lineage. The uncorrected genetic distances between the 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and ND2 genes between the new species and its closest congener were 5.0%, 4.9%, and 16.3%, respectively. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 39.1–49.4 mm in males, 49.7 mm in female); head width larger than head length; tympanum distinctly visible; small rounded granules scattered all over dorsal body and limbs; dorsolateral folds absent; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level between eye to nostril when leg stretched forward; vocal sacs absent in male and nuptial pads present on the base of finger I.
["Leigong Mountain"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Aquaculture disease management and microbiota"]

Two new species of Hesperopenna Medvedev & Dang, 1981 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae) from Singapore
Two new species of Hesperopenna Medvedev & Dang, 1981 are described from Singapore: H. temasek sp. nov. and H. bakeri sp. nov. The specimens of both new species were collected by Charles Fuller Baker and found in the unidentified Galerucinae material deposited in the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC. Hesperopenna temasek sp. nov. is diagnosed by the black extreme elytral suture in the basal third, antennae longer than the body, the structure of the penis, and the last abdominal ventrite with two deep U-shaped incisions in females. Hesperopenna bakeri sp. nov. is diagnosed by the black tibia and first two tarsomeres, and the structure of the penis.
["Charles Fuller Baker"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Pseudoscorpions (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpiones) from French Polynesia with first species records and description of new species
A new species Olpium caputi sp. nov. from Tahiti is described here based on external characters. This is the first record of the family Olpiidae Banks, 1895 from French Polynesia. Additionally, the genus Paratemnoides Harvey, 1991 is recorded from French Polynesia for the first time with the full description of new-found specimens of Paratemnoides assimilis (Beier, 1932). New localities of Geogarypus longidigitatus (Rainbow, 1897) are added. An identification key to pseudoscorpions of French Polynesia is provided.
["Endemism"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

First amphibious Crinocheta (Isopoda, Oniscidea) from the Neotropics with a troglobitic status: a relictual distribution
The first freshwater amphibian representative of Crinocheta (Oniscidea) from the Neotropics is described from caves within the Brazilian Cerrado biome, state of Mato Grosso do Sul. Kadiweuoniscus rebellis gen. et sp. nov. is placed in the family Philosciidae. The present work represents a significant contribution to future studies seeking to understand the ecological and evolutionary processes of Crinocheta within the Neotropical region. Moreover, it highlights the importance of biodiversity surveys in subterranean environments toward effective conservation efforts of these unique habitats and their surroundings.
["Cave fauna"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Description of a new species of the Petrolisthes galathinus complex from the Caribbean Sea, and resurrection of Petrolisthes occidentalis from the East Pacific (Crustacea, Anomura, Porcellanidae)
The Petrolisthes galathinus complex currently consists of six American species distributed in the West Atlantic, including the amphi-American P. galathinus. All species in the complex are similar in their adult morphology but differ in colour, size, larval morphology, and shape of the adult sternal plate. The West Atlantic species have different geographic ranges, which overlap in the southern Caribbean. Previously published molecular data support the monophyly of the complex, and the reciprocal monophyly of each described species and further clades corresponding to different colour morphs. Here, the morph P. caribensis “Blue” is described as Petrolisthes coeruleus sp. nov., and Petrolisthes occidentalis is formally resurrected for the Pacific individuals of P. galathinus. By adding these two species to the P. galathinus complex, this now consists of eight species. Colour illustrations of all species and colour morphs are provided and their geographic distributions and ecological ranges are discussed and updated.
["Caribbean"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Review of Anaka Dworakowska & Viraktamath, 1975 (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae) with the descriptions of five new species from China
The dikraneurine leafhopper genus Anaka is reviewed based on a comparative morphological study. Five new species, Anaka auricula sp. nov., Anaka cruciata sp. nov., Anaka curvata sp. nov., Anaka rosacea sp. nov., and Anaka spiralis sp. nov. from China are described and illustrated in detail. Additionally, a key to known Anaka species is provided along with a checklist of all species and their distributions.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Pathogenic Bacteria Studies", "Plant Virus Research Studies"]

Oblatopyrochroa bellula, an enigmatic new genus and species of Pyrochroinae (Coleoptera, Pyrochroidae) from Xizang, China
Oblatopyrochroa bellula, a new genus and species of Pyrochroinae Latreille, 1807 from Xizang, China, is described and illustrated. The antennae, cranial apparatus, and genitalia of the new genus form a truly unique set of characters not observed in any other pyrochroid genus. The taxonomic position and phylogenetic relationships of Oblatopyrochroa gen. nov. are also discussed but appear difficult to resolve.
["Fire-colored beetle"]
["Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Study of Mite Species"]

A new genus and species of oceanic planktonic Tisbidae (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida) with enlarged modified eyes
Both sexes of a new monotypic genus of Tisbidae (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) are described from the epi- or mesopelagic zone in the Kuroshio region, Japan. Gyorome guttatum gen. et sp. nov. belongs to a monophyletic lineage of deepwater holoplanktonic genera defined by a suite of characters. Within this clade, Gyorome gen. nov. appears most closely related to Neotisbella Boxshall, 1979. The most distinguishable feature of G. guttatum gen. et sp. nov. is the presence of large, paired, frontal modified eyes, each consisting of a baculiform ocellus, a globular (Gicklhorn’s?) organ, and a semi-parabolic plate. The taxonomic position of Tisbe spinulosa Bradford & Wells, 1983 is discussed and a key to the six meso- and bathypelagic tisbid species is provided. Confusion surrounding earlier literature reports of supernumerary elements on the caudal ramus in some harpacticoid taxa is clarified. Secondary modifications of ocellar components of the typical naupliar eye in the Harpacticoida are reviewed. It is suggested that the development of specialized eyes in G. guttatum gen. et sp. nov. may provide a means for detecting bioluminescent food particles in oligotrophic pelagic environments. The large, vaulted prosome indicates the species is an opportunistic macrophage that has adopted gorging as a feeding strategy.
["Caudal ramus ecological radiation Gicklhorn\u2019s organ key to species Kuroshio mesopelagic taxonomy zooplankton"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Three new species and two newly recorded species of Tachininae from Tibet, China (Arthropoda, Insecta, Diptera, Tachinidae)
During our studying of the fauna of Tibet, China, many specimens of the subfamily Tachininae (Diptera, Tachinidae) were collected and examined. Three species are described here as new to science, Leskia latisurstyla sp. nov., Trichoformosomyia cuonaensis sp. nov., and Tachina jilongensis sp. nov., and two species, Nemoraea javana (Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1894) and N. echinata Mesnil, 1953, are newly recorded from Tibet. In addition to their descriptions, illustrations, and diagnoses, three identification keys are provided. The specimens in this study are kept in the Insect Collection of Shenyang Normal University, China (SYNU).
["Leskia"]

The ants of the genus Rhopalothrix Mayr, 1870 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) in Colombia
The ants of the genus Rhopalothrix are diverse in the Neotropical region, with 14 of the 16 described species. Based on museum material and recent fieldwork, Rhopalothrix ants in Colombia were reviewed. Morphological analysis of the workers allowed delimitation of six species, including two new species, Rhopalothrix mandibularis Guerrero & Grajales, sp. nov. and Rhopalothrix mariaemirae Tocora, Fiorentino & Fernández, sp. nov. A new combination Rhopalothrix amati comb. nov. is proposed for Eurhopalothrix amati. A worker-based taxonomic key, high-definition images of the workers, and a distribution map of all Rhopalothrix species present in Colombia are provided.
["Basiceros genus group"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Plant and animal studies"]

Ghatippus paschima, a new species and genus of plexippine jumping spider from the Western Ghats of India (Salticidae, Plexippini, Plexippina)
We propose a new genus of plexippine jumping spiders from the Western Ghats of India based on the new species Ghatippus paschima gen. et sp. nov. While it bears a superficial resemblance to Pancorius in body form and Hyllus in membrane-bearing embolus, our UCE phylogenomic data—the first to resolve broad relationships within the Plexippina—as well as morphological features justify its status as a new genus. In addition to the molecular data and morphological descriptions, we provide photographs of living specimens of Ghatippus paschima gen. et sp. nov. and information on their natural history.

Two new species of Hyalella (Amphipoda, Dogielinotidae) from the Humid Chaco ecoregion of Paraguay
The freshwater amphipod genus Hyalella Smith, 1874 is widely distributed in the Neotropics, with several biogeographically restricted species and a high cryptic diversity throughout South America. Tens of species of Hyalella have been documented from nearby Brazil and Argentina, but no systematic record of the genus exists for Paraguay. Here we describe two new species of Hyalella: H. mboitui sp. nov. and H. julia sp. nov. from the Ñeembucú wetlands of southwestern Paraguay. Hyalella mboitui sp. nov. and H. julia sp. nov. are characterised by a dorsally smooth body, pigmented eyes, uropod 1 endopod with a curved seta, the dorsal margin of uropod 3 ramus without setae, and uropod 3 peduncle longer than wide and with six setae apically. The two species are distinguished by their diagnostic mouthparts, with a median serrated edge on the lacinia mobilis in H. mboitui sp. nov. and two elongated lateral denticles with a serrated edge in H. julia sp. nov., and by the presence of a pronounced cup for the dactylus on gnathopod 2 in H. mboitui sp. nov. In addition, they show differences in the number of articles on antennae 1 and 2, in the relative length of the pereiopods, and in the numbers and types of setae on their gnathopods and uropods 1–3. Hyalella mboitui sp. nov. and H. julia sp. nov. represent the first taxonomically documented occurrence of Paraguayan freshwater amphipods. These new taxa attest to the largely unmapped species richness of freshwater invertebrates in the Humid Chaco of Paraguay. This potential biodiversity hotspot is currently under threat from land conversion, highlighting the need for more systematic studies and effective conservation of the local invertebrate biodiversity.
["Amphipoda"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Revision of the orb-weaver spider genus Gea C.L. Koch, 1843 (Araneae, Araneidae) from China
The orb-weaver spider genus Gea C.L. Koch, 1843 from China is revised, and three species including one new species, are recognized: Gea jingdong Mi, Wang & Gan, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan; Gea spinipes C.L. Koch, 1843 (♂♀) from Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hainan, Taiwan, and Yunnan; and Gea subarmata Thorell, 1890 (♂♀) from Guangxi and Hainan. Gea subarmata is newly recorded in China.

Taxonomic revision of the Nitocra affinis Gurney, 1927 species complex (Harpacticoida, Ameiridae) with descriptions of four new species and re-evaluation of its subspecies
Due to the recent increasing importance of microcharacters in copepod taxonomy, it has become evident that many species lacking detailed descriptions actually constitute to a species complex. In this study, Nitocra affinis is redescribed based on lectotype material from Lake Timsah (Egypt) which facilitated a thorough detailed comparison with specimens of N. affinis recorded from distantly related localities. The results unequivocally revealed that the specimens of N. affinis examined in this study belong to a different species. As a result, four new species, Nitocra sonmezi sp. nov. and Nitocra serdarsaki sp. nov. from the Turkish coast, Nitocra alperi sp. nov. from the Indian Ocean, and Nitocra loweae sp. nov. from Brighton, England are herein described as new to science. On the other hand, all subspecies of N. affinis, namely N. affinis rijekana Petkovski, 1954, N. affinis californica Lang, 1965, N. affinis stygia, Por. 1968, and N. affinis colombiensis Fuentes-Reinés & Suárez-Morales, 2014 are elevated to species rank. An updated key the species of the affinis group is also provided.
["Copepoda"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The genus Neurigona Rondani, 1856 (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) from Yunnan, China, with descriptions of seven new species and a key to the species of China
Previously, only three species of the genus Neurigona Rondani of the subfamily Neurigoninae were known from Yunnan Province. Here, we reviewed the species of Neurigona from Yunnan and added the following seven new species: N. apicilata sp. nov., N. basicurva sp. nov., N. brevidigitata sp. nov., N. convexa sp. nov., N. huanglianshana sp. nov., N. quadrimaculata sp. nov., and N. ventriprocessa sp. nov. All seven new species are sympatric and were collected from below a reservoir in the Huanglianshan Nature Reserve in Yunnan using three Malaise traps in 2019. This suggests a very high species richness in the Yunnan fauna. A key to the species of Neurigona from Chinese mainland is provided.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Two new species of Hypodontolaiminae (Nematoda, Chromadorida, Chromadoridae) from the Yellow Sea with a phylogenetic analysis in the subfamily
Two new species of Hypodontolaiminae, Dichromadora media sp. nov. and Neochromadora parabilineata sp. nov., were isolated and described from the Yellow Sea, China. Dichromadora media sp. nov. is characterized by four long cephalic setae, the amphidial fovea transverse oval in the male and slit-shaped in the female, the pharynx with a single posterior bulb, spicules curved and distally bifurcated, gubernaculum jointed, four (1+3) precloacal supplements papilliform, and the tail conical elongated with a short spinneret. Neochromadora parabilineata sp. nov. is characterized by the buccal cavity with one large hollow dorsal tooth and two small subventral teeth, the pharynx with an obvious posterior bulb, spicules L-shaped and widened medially, gubernaculum boat-shaped, seven cup-shaped and equidistant precloacal supplements, and a long and gradually tapering tail. The phylogenetic analysis of maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference based on rDNA sequences confirmed the taxonomic positions of Neochromadora parabilineata sp. nov. and Dichromadora media sp. nov. within Hypodontolaiminae. Tree topology in Hypodontolaiminae shows the genera Neochromadora, Dichromadora, Ptycholaimellus, and Spilophorella as polyphyletic groups, and the genus Chromadorita as a paraphyletic group.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

The millipede family Polydesmidae Leach, 1816 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida) from Vietnam, with a description of a new cavernicolous species
The millipede family Polydesmidae Leach, 1816 is reviewed in the scope of the Vietnamese fauna. The distribution of the species, Polydesmus vietnamicus Nguyen, 2009 is extended northward to Ha Giang Province. A new cavernicolous polydesmid, Pacidesmus tuachua sp. nov., is described from two caves in northwestern Vietnam, representing the first record of the genus from Vietnam. Extensive illustrations and DNA barcodes are provided for both species, a revised key is presented to all 12 species of Pacidesmus Golovatch, 1991, as well as a key to all eight genera of Asian Polydesmidae.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Notes on species of Talaus Simon, 1886 (Araneae, Thomisidae) from China, with descriptions of two new species
Taxonomic notes on the Talaus species from China are provided. Two new species, T. yuyang Yao & Liu, sp. nov. and T. zhangjiangkou Yao & Liu, sp. nov. are described and illustrated, and a further three species are redescribed based on their genitalic characters: T. dulongjiang Tang, Yin, Ubick & Peng, 2008, T. niger Tang, Yin, Ubick & Peng, 2008, and T. sulcus Tang & Li, 2010. The species T. xiphosus Zhu & Ono, 2007 is considered a junior synonym of T. triangulifer Simon, 1886 based on an examination of many recently collected female and male specimens from Guangxi Province, China. Diagnoses, detailed illustrations and a map of distributional records of the six treated species of Talaus in China are provided.
["Crab spiders"]

Molecular phylogeny and taxonomic position of Macrobrachium lanchesteri (De Man, 1911), with descriptions of two new species from Thailand (Decapoda, Caridea, Palaemonidae)
Macrobrachium lanchesteri (De Man, 1911), a translucent freshwater prawn has a wide distribution range throughout mainland Southeast Asia. A high morphological variation and genetic divergence between different geographical M. lanchesteri populations in Thailand have peculiarly extended the uncertainty of species boundaries and blended confusingly with several Macrobrachium species. To clarify these circumstances, broad sample examinations of the morphological variation, including topotype specimens, and phylogenetic reconstruction based on the concatenated mitochondrial dataset (16s rRNA and COI genes) were performed. Broad morphological examination of M. lanchesteri has shown congruency with phylogenetic analyses by revealing prominent lineages of M. lanchesteri sensu stricto and two new sibling lineages with interspecific variation between 6.48–8.76% for COI and 3.06–4.23% for 16S. Descriptions of two new species, named herein as M. panhai Chaowvieng & Siriwut, sp. nov. and M. rostrolevatus Chaowvieng & Siriwut, sp. nov. are provided. Morphological investigation of rostral form suggested plasticity in M. rostrolevatus populations showing the morphological trait associated with their habitat preferences. Furthermore, phylogenetic positions of the three taxa affirmed the hidden diversity of Thai freshwater Macrobrachium fauna correlated with the river network in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins, Thailand. The genetic data and distribution records obtained in this study may also assist future river conservation plans as well as the sustainable management of freshwater prawn diversity.
["Edible prawns"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

﻿A new species of Odorrana Fei, Ye & Huang, 1990 (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae) from central Guangxi, China with a discussion of the taxonomy of Odorrana (Bamburana)
A new species of odorous frog, Odorrana damingshanensis sp. nov., was found at the Damingshan National Nature Reserve in Guangxi, China. This species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: medium body size (SVL 52.3–54.8 mm in males and 74.8–81.2 mm in females), sawtooth spinules on the upper lip, obtusely rounded snout that extends beyond the lower margin, distinct dorsolateral folds, horny tubercles on the rear of the back, presence of outer metatarsal tubercles, dilated nuptial pad with velvety spinules, distinct maxillary gland with tiny spines, and external lateral vocal sac. Through analysis of the 16S mitochondria gene, the new species is closely related to O. nasica and O. yentuensis, but the genetic divergence between the new species and the latter exceeds 7% (uncorrected p-distance). Currently, the new species is only known from its original discovery site. Furthermore, a discussion on the taxonomy of Odorrana (Bamburana) was conducted, identifying seven species within the subgenus Odorrana (Bamburana).
["Cryptic species"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Review of the genus Laena Dejean, 1821 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) from Gansu Province, China, with the description of a new species
A new species of the genus Laena from Xiaolongshan in Gansu Province, China is described as Laena hui sp. nov. All Laena species known to occur in Gansu Province are reviewed, and an identification key is provided. The mitochondrial gene COI to confirm the identity of the new species, which is morphologically most similar and phylogenetically close to L. fengileana. The new species can be recognized by features of elytra and tibiae.

﻿A revision of some species of Souvanna Breuning, 1963, Mispila Pascoe, 1864, and Athylia Pascoe, 1864 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
Alidus signatus Pic, 1926 is transferred from Mispila to Souvanna, and Souvanna signata (Pic, 1926), comb. nov. is proposed. The lectotype of Alidus signatus is designated. The following synonyms are proposed: Souvanna signata = Athylia (s. str.) quadristigma (Gressitt, 1940), syn. nov. = Souvanna phoumai Breuning, 1963, syn. nov. = Mispila (Dryusa) coomani Breuning, 1968, syn. nov., Mispila (s. str.) tenuevittata (Pic, 1930) = Mispila (s. str.) assamensis Breuning, 1938, syn. nov. The gender of the holotype of Alidus multilineatus Pic, 1925 is determined. New distributional records for Souvanna signata, Mispila curvilinea Pascoe, 1869, M. subtonkinea Breuning, 1968 and M. tenuevittata are provided.
["Gender definition"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿The adult, pupa, and larva of a new species of Gnaptorina Reitter, 1887 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Blaptini) from the Tibetan Plateau, with molecular phylogenetic inferences
The adult, pupa and larva of a new species, Gnaptorina (Gnaptorina) lhorongica Li, sp. nov., from northeastern Xizang, China are described and illustrated. The species was identified using molecular phylogenetic analyses based on three mitochondrial fragments and one nuclear gene fragment (COI, Cytb, 16S, and 28S-D2). The taxonomic status of the new species is confirmed using a combination of molecular and morphological datasets. This study provides valuable molecular and morphological data for phylogenetic studies of the tribe Blaptini.
["Beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

﻿Complete mitochondrial genome of Guigarra cailaoensis Wang, Chen & Zheng, 2022 (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Guigarra cailaoensis is a member of family Cyprinidae, subfamily Labeoninae (Cypriniformes) which was recently discovered in southwestern China. Following its initial description, additional information on this species has remained notably scarce. In the current study, we assemble the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of G. cailaoensis using the Illumina sequencing platform. The mitogenome is identified as a circular, double-stranded DNA sequence of 16,593 base pairs, encompassing 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and a putative control region. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian-inference approaches were used to construct phylogenetic trees for three datasets: (i) PCG sequences of the complete mitogenome (dataset 1); (ii) PCG sequences of the complete mitogenome combined with nuclear DNA (ncDNA) (Rag1) sequence (dataset 2); and (iii) ncDNA (Rag1) sequences (dataset 3). Phylogenetic analyses position G. cailaoensis as a sister taxon to the lineage consisting of Paraqianlabeo lineatus Zhao, Sullivan, Zhang & Peng, 2014 and Pseudogyrinocheilus prochilus Fang, 1933 in dataset 1, and to Pseudogyrinocheilus prochilus in dataset 2, species lacking an oral disc on the lower lip. However, G. cailaoensis showed a close relationship to the lineage consisting of Discogobio and Discocheilus in dataset 3, species possessing an oral disc on the lower lip. Nonetheless, a variety of species with an oral disc on the lower lip are clustered into different lineages across the three datasets that may indicate that the development of the oral disc is homoplastic within the subfamily Labeoninae. The outcomes of this study have the potential to support conservation efforts for this species and to enrich our understanding of genetic resources in the area.
["Illumina"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Revision of the macropterous subgenus Curtonotus from east China, with the description of a new species (Carabidae, Zabrini, Amara)
Species from east China belonging to the subgenus Curtonotus were studied, resulting in the description of a new species, Amara (Curtonotus) beijingensis sp. nov. The type locality is Xiaolongmen Forest Park in Beijing. All the known macropterous Curtonotus species from eastern China are reviewed and for each species taxonomical notes, illustrations, and new provincial records are noted. An improved key for their identification is provided as well.
["Coleoptera"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿A new ant species of the genus Carebara Westwood, 1840 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) with a key to Chinese species
A new Chinese ant species Carebara laeviceps sp. nov. is described based on the major and minor workers. This species is most similar to C. lusciosa (Wheeler, 1928) due to a spineless propodeum, the absence of horns, and a smooth head capsule. It is distinguished by the following features: (1) antenna 10-segmented; (2) katepisternum rugose-reticulate; (3) in major workers, lateral sides of head in full-face view parallel; (4) metanotal groove distinct, anterodorsal corner forming an acute tooth behind metanotal groove. Moreover, an updated key to Chinese Carebara species is presented based on major workers, with a checklist comprising a total of 36 Chinese Carebara species and subspecies. Morphological structures and scanning electron micrographs of the newly discovered species’ minor and major workers are provided.
["Carebara laeviceps"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿A taxonomic study of four rare pteromalid genera: Amblyharma Huang & Tong, Fusta Xiao & Ye, Nazgulia Hedqvist and Platecrizotes Ferrière from the Eastern Palaearctic (Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae, Pachyneurinae)
The four morphologically similar genera Amblyharma Huang & Tong, 1993, Fusta Xiao & Ye, 2015, Nazgulia Hedqvist, 1973 and Platecrizotes Ferrière, 1934 from the Eastern Palaearctic are reviewed. Redescriptions of genera and all available types of Eastern Palaearctic species are provided. An identification key to genera is given. A new species from South Korea, Platecrizotes jedii sp. nov. is described and illustrated.

﻿Hotwheels gen. nov., a new ground spider genus (Araneae, Gnaphosidae) from southwest China
A new monotypic ground spider genus, Hotwheels gen. nov., is described, with the type species H. sisyphus sp. nov. (♂♀) from southwest China. This new genus is not assigned to any of the known subfamilies of Gnaphosidae, belonging only to the Echemus group of genera. It resembles Synaphosus Platnick & Shadab, but it can be differentiated by the presence of a median apophysis. Descriptions, illustrations and a records map are provided.

﻿Argyrotaenia socoromaensis sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae), a sexually dimorphic micromoth with polyphagous larvae from the arid Andes of northern Chile
Argyrotaenia socoromaensis sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae, Tortricinae, Archipini) from the arid Andes of northern Chile is described and illustrated. Adults are sexually dimorphic, with differences in wing size, shape and pattern. The larvae feed on Stevia philippiana Hieron. (Asteraceae) and Lupinus oreophilus Phil. (Fabaceae). Genetic distance between DNA barcodes of male and female adults reared from larvae collected on the two hosts was 0–0.2% (K2P). The discovery of A. socoromaensis sp. nov. represents the first record of the genus Argyrotaenia Stephens, 1852 and the tribe Archipini for the Chilean fauna of Tortricidae.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Midget cave spiders (Araneae, Leptonetidae) from Jiangxi and Fujian Province, China
Eleven leptonetid species belonging to four genera collected in Jiangxi and Fujian Provinces, China are presented. Ten new species of midget cave spiders from southern China are diagnosed, described, and illustrated: Leptonetela dawu Yao & Liu, sp. nov., L. yuanhaoi Yao & Liu, sp. nov. and L. zuojiashanensis Yao & Liu, sp. nov. from Jiangxi; Longileptoneta guadunensis Yao & Liu, sp. nov., L. huboliao Yao & Liu, sp. nov., L. jiaxiani Yao & Liu, sp. nov., L. letuensis Yao & Liu, sp. nov., L. renzhouensis Yao & Liu, sp. nov., L. tianmenensis Yao & Liu, sp. nov., and Pararana mingxuani Yao & Liu, sp. nov. from Fujian. Furthermore, Falcileptoneta monodactyla (Yin, Wang & Wang, 1984) is recorded from Jiangxi province for the first time. Distributions records are given for all investigated species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿A new species of the genus Achalinus (Squamata, Xenodermatidae) from southwest Hunan Province, China
A new species of xenodermid snake, Achalinus nanshanensis H. Li, L.-Q. Zhu, Z.-Q. Zhang & X.-Y. Mo, sp. nov., is described based on three specimens collected from Nanshan National Park and Tongdao County of southwest Hunan Province. This new species is genetically distinct amongst its congeners with the mitochondrial COI uncorrected p-distance ranging from 4.4% (in A. yangdatongi) to 17.7% (in A. meiguensis). In addition, this new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) dorsal scales with 23 or 25 rows throughout and strongly keeled; (2) tail relatively longer so that TaL/ToL = 0.215–0.248; (3) length of suture between internasals significantly longer than that between prefrontals, LSBI/LSBP = 1.66–1.84; (4) single loreal scale present; (5) SPL 6 in number, with the fourth and fifth contacting eye; (6) IFL 6 in number, with the first three touching the first pair of chin shields; (7) TMP is 2-2-4/2-2(3)-4, with the anterior pair elongated and in contact with the eye; (8) ventrals 2 + 147–158; (9) subcaudals 64–77, unpaired; (10) dorsal body brownish black, with a bright yellow neck collar extending to the head and abdomen in the occipital region. The recognition of the new species increases the number of described Achalinus species to 28, of which 21 are found in China.
["Achalinus nanshanensis sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

﻿New deep-sea species of Aborjinia (Nematoda, Leptosomatidae) from the North-Western Pacific: an integrative taxonomy and phylogeny
Marimermithid nematodes parasitising invertebrates are mainly found in the deep-sea environments. Several adult and juvenile specimens marimermithids of the genus Aborjinia have been found in bottom sediments and inside Polychaeta during recent cruises to the Kuril-Kamchatka trench and the Kuril Basin (the Sea of Okhotsk). New species are described based on integrative study. Aborjinia profunda sp. nov. differs from A. eulagiscae by the location of the ventral gland cell bodies (posterior to the nerve ring vs posterior to the cardia), by the smaller body size (23–28 mm vs 103–132 mm) and shorter tail (193–263 µm vs 500–850 µm). BI and ML phylogenetic analyses based on 18S and 28S rDNA suggest that genus Aborjinia belongs to the family Leptosomatidae. Based on molecular and morphological characters the new genus Paraborjinia gen. nov. is proposed for A. corallicola. Within the family Leptosomatidae the new genus differs from all genera except Aborjinia by its endoparasitic lifestyle and hologonic ovaries. Paraborjinia gen. nov. differs from Aborjinia by the position of cephalic sensitive organs (outer labial and cephalic papillae in two separate circles vs outer labial and cephalic papillae in one circle) and by the parasitic adult (vs free-living in Aborjinia).
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

﻿An overview of the Leucospidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) of the Arabian Peninsula with description of a new species
An overview of the family Leucospidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) is provided for the leucospid fauna of the Arabian Peninsula. Two genera containing four species are identified based on morphometrics and colour patterns. One species, Leucospis ayezae Usman, Anwar & Ahmad, sp. nov., is described. Leucospis elegans Klug had been previously recorded from Arabia Felix (= Yemen) and is recorded here for the first time from Saudi Arabia. The status of Leucospis aff. namibica from Yemen has been clarified, and this species is placed here in the genus Micrapion Kriechbaumer as M. clavaforme Steffan. An updated key and a map showing the distribution of the family Leucospidae in the Arabian Peninsula is provided. The occurrence and color morphs of all leucospid species that have been recorded so far from the region are briefly discussed.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Systematic revision of the ant subfamily Leptanillinae (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The genus-level taxonomy of the ant subfamily Leptanillinae (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is here revised, with the aim of delimiting genus-level taxa that are reciprocally monophyletic and readily diagnosable based upon all adult forms. This new classification reflects molecular phylogenetics and is informed by joint consideration of both male and worker morphology. Three valid genera are recognized in the Leptanillinae: Opamyrma, Leptanilla (= Scyphodon syn. nov., Phaulomyrma, Leptomesites, Noonilla syn. nov., Yavnella syn. nov.), and Protanilla (= Anomalomyrma syn. nov., Furcotanilla). Leptanilla and Protanilla are further divided into informal, monophyletic species groups. Synoptic diagnoses are provided for all genera and informal supraspecific groupings. In addition, worker-based keys to all described species within the Leptanillinae for which the worker caste is known are provided; and male-based keys to all species for which males are known, plus undescribed male morphospecies for which molecular data are published. The following species are described as new: Protanilla wallacei sp. nov., Leptanilla acherontia sp. nov., Leptanilla belantan sp. nov., Leptanilla bethyloides sp. nov., and Leptanilla najaphalla sp. nov.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿New records of Provanna (Gastropoda, Provannidae) from the Costa Rica Margin and an identification key for the genus
Consistent species identification is foundational to biological research and requires coordination among a diversity of researchers and institutions. However, such consistency may be hindered for rare organisms where specimens, identification resources, and taxonomic experts are few. This is often the case for deep-sea taxonomic groups. For example, the deep-sea gastropod genus Provanna Dall, 1918 is common at chemosynthetic sites throughout the world’s oceans, yet no formal guide to these species has yet been produced. Recent exploration has recovered new specimens of Provanna from hydrocarbon seeps off the Pacific Costa Rica Margin. The current work assesses the species identity of these specimens using shell morphology, radular morphology, and genetic barcoding (mitochondrial CO1 and nuclear H3). Records of occurrence for P. laevis Warén & Ponder, 1991, P. ios Warén & Bouchet, 1986, and P. pacifica Warén & Bouchet, 1986 are herein presented from the Costa Rica Margin. A critical taxonomic review of the 29 extant species within this genus was conducted and their genetic, morphological, and biogeographical distinction assessed. In this review, genetic and morphological support was found for nearly all current species delineations except for P. glabra Okutani et al., 1992, syn. nov. and P. laevis, syn. nov., which are herein synonymized to P. laevis, and for P. ios, syn. nov. and P. goniata Warén & Bouchet, 1986, syn. nov., which are synonymized to P. ios. Finally, the first species identification key for the extant species in this genus is presented. This work clarifies the taxonomy and systematics of this deep-sea gastropod genus and contributes a novel polytomous key for use in future research.
["Gastropoda"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

﻿Three new species and five new records within the genus Lilioceris (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Criocerinae) from China
The Chinese species of Lilioceris are revised, and three new species are described from Tibet, China: Lilioceris zhentangensis Xu & Liang, sp. nov., Lilioceris medogensis Xu & Liang, sp. nov. and Lilioceris zayuensis Xu & Liang, sp. nov. Five species of Lilioceris are reported for China as new records: L. dromedarius (Baly, 1861), L. pulchella (Baly, 1859), L. semicostata (Jacoby, 1908), L. unicolor (Hope, 1831) and L. nepalensis Takizawa, 1989. Lilioceris seminigra (Jacoby, 1889) is proposed as a junior synonym of L. unicolor Hope, 1831. Redescriptions, habitus photographs, geographic distributions, host plants (if available) and habitats are provided for these species.
["Habitat"]

﻿A new species of Amolops (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae) from Guizhou Province, China
The Torrent frogs of the genus Amolops are widely distributed in Nepal and northern India eastwards to southern China and southwards to Malaysia. The genus currently contains 84 species. Previous studies indicated underestimated species diversity in the genus. In the context, a new species occurring from the mountains in the northwestern Guizhou Province, China is found and described based on morphological comparisons and molecular phylogenetic analyses, Amolops dafangensis sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI genes supported the new species as an independent lineage. The uncorrected genetic distances between the 16S rRNA and COI genes in the new species and its closest congener were 0.7% and 2.6%, respectively, which are higher than or at the same level as those among many pairs of congeners. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 43.2–46.8 mm in males); head length larger than head width slightly; tympanum distinct, oval; vocal sacs absent; vomerine teeth present; dorsolateral folds weak formed by series of glands; nuptial pads present on the base of finger I; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level far beyond the tip of the snout when leg stretched forward.
["Mitochondrial gene"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Scratching the tip of the iceberg: integrative taxonomy reveals 30 new species records of Microgastrinae (Braconidae) parasitoid wasps for Germany, including new Holarctic distributions
Substantial parts of the European and German insect fauna still remain largely unexplored, the so-called “dark taxa”. In particular, midges (Diptera) and parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera) are abundant and species-rich throughout Europe, yet are often neglected in biodiversity research. One such dark taxon is Microgastrinae wasps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a group of parasitoids of lepidopteran caterpillars with 252 species reported in Germany so far. As part of the German Barcode of Life Project GBOL III: Dark Taxa, reverse DNA barcoding and integrative taxonomic approaches were used to shed some light on the German Fauna of Microgastrinae wasps. In our workflow, DNA barcoding was used for molecular clustering of our specimens in a first step, morphological examination of the voucher specimens in a second step, and host data compared in a third step. Here, 30 species are reported for the first time in Germany, adding more than 10% to the known German fauna. Information for four species is provided in a new Holarctic context, reporting them for the Nearctic or, respectively, Palaearctic region, and 26 additional country records are added from sequenced material available in the collections accessible to us. Molecular clusters that show signs of discrepancies are discussed. Results show that we are just scratching the tip of the iceberg of the unexplored Microgastrinae diversity in Germany.
["Dark taxa"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿A new genus of soft coral (Octocorallia, Malacalcyonacea, Cladiellidae) and three new species from Indo-Pacific coral reefs
Molecular systematic studies of the anthozoan class Octocorallia have revealed widespread incongruence between phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic classification at all levels of the Linnean hierarchy. Among the soft coral taxa in order Malacalcyonacea, the family Alcyoniidae and its type genus Alcyonium have both been recognised to be highly polyphyletic. A recent family-level revision of Octocorallia established a number of new families for genera formerly considered to belong to Alcyoniidae, but revision of Alcyonium is not yet complete. Previous molecular studies have supported the placement of Alcyonium verseveldti (Benayahu, 1982) in family Cladiellidae rather than Alcyoniidae, phylogenetically distinct from the other three genera in that family. Here we describe a new genus, Ofwegenum gen. nov. to accommodate O. verseveldti comb. nov. and three new species of that genus, O. coronalucis sp. nov., O. kloogi sp. nov., and O. colli sp. nov., bringing the total number of species in this genus to four. Ofwegenum gen. nov. is a rarely encountered genus so far known from only a few locations spanning the Indian and western Pacific Oceans. We present the morphological characters of each species and use molecular data from both DNA barcoding and target-enrichment of conserved elements to explore species boundaries and phylogenetic relationships within the genus.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

﻿Three new species of the planthopper genus Oecleopsis Emeljanov, 1971 from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae)
Three new species of the genus Oecleopsis Emeljanov, 1971 from China, O. acerbus Lv & Chen, sp. nov. and O. panxianensis Lv & Chen, sp. nov. from Guizhou Province, and O. digitatus Lv & Chen, sp. nov. from Sichuan Province, are described and illustrated. With these additions, the number of species in the genus is increased to 18. An updated identification key and checklist of all known species of Oecleopsis are provided as well as a map of their geographic distributions.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿New morphological and biological contributions to adults and immature forms of Pissonotus paraguayensis (Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae) in wetlands of Argentina
In the search for insects as biological control agents for the water primrose, the delphacid Pissonotus paraguayensis (Delphacidae) was found on Ludwigia grandiflora subsp. hexapetala (Onagraceae) in a wetland of Central East Argentina. The morphology of the unknown females (brachypterous and macropterous) and immature stages are described and illustrated. Adults and nymphs were collected in wetlands of Del Plata River Basin, from Buenos Aires to the northeastern part of Argentina. A rearing methodology was developed to perform biological studies. Both winged forms and structural features of the female genitalia are described for the first time at the genus level. Eggs and immature stages are described and keyed; fifth nymphal instars may be easily recognised by the yellowish colouration, blackish on dorsal of head, thorax and abdomen with conspicuous yellowish pits, ventrally only darkened on base of frons extended to lower level of eyes and dorsal surface of antennomeres I and II, and legs with distinctive black marks at femoro-tibial joint and apex. The geographical distribution is updated, expanding its range into Argentina, making Buenos Aires the southernmost limit of the genus in America. Biological information of the species is also reported here: life cycle, fecundity, oviposition behaviour, and host plant. Field observations showed that P. paraguayensis breeds, feeds, and causes damage to L. g. subsp. hexapetala. This delphacid presents a certain degree of specificity to the Ludwigia species in the Jussiaea section in host specificity tests. More studies are required to test this species as a potential biological control agent.
["Biology"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Seven new species and four new records of Psychomyiidae (Insecta, Trichoptera) from China
Seven new species of the family Psychomyiidae Walker, 1852 are described and illustrated from China; they are Psychomyia shuni sp. nov., Ps. mangshanensis sp. nov., Ps. capricornis sp. nov., Lype sagittalis sp. nov., Paduniella fasciaria sp. nov., Pa. sanyaensis sp. nov., and Tinodes aviformis sp. nov. The genus Lype is reported for the first time from mainland China. In addition, four psychomyiids are found to be new to the Chinese caddis fauna: Psychomyia indra Malicky & Chantaramongkol, 1993; Paduniella andamanensis Malicky, 1979; Pa. dendrobia Malicky & Chantaramongkol, 1993; and Tinodes gapbona Johanson & Oláh, 2008. Moreover, Psychomyia polyacantha Li, Qiu & Morse, 2021 is reviewed and synonymized with Psychomyia imamiah Malicky, 2020.
["Caddisflies"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Reclassification of Cybistrinae Sharp, 1880 in the Neotropical Region (Coleoptera, Adephaga, Dytiscidae), with description of new taxa
The classification of the Neotropical Cybistrinae Sharp, 1880 (Coleoptera: Adephaga: Dytiscidae) is extensively revised based on a phylogenetic analysis of morphological features of the group. A new genus, Nilssondytes gen. nov. is described for a unique new species, Nilssondytes diversus sp. nov. from Venezuela. The New World genus, Megadytes Sharp, 1882, with several subgenera, was found to not be monophyletic. The type species of Megadytes, Dytiscus latus Fabricius, 1801 and the species Cybister parvus Trémouilles, 1984 were found to be monophyletic together, and phylogenetically more closely related to Cybister Curtis, 1827 than to other species assigned to Megadytes sensu stricto, which were found to also be monophyletic. The name Megadytes is here restricted to include only Megadytes latus and Megadytes parvus. These two species assigned to this newly restricted genus concept are reviewed and diagnosed. A new genus, Metaxydytes gen. nov., is erected to include all the other species currently assigned to Megadytes sensu stricto. The current subgenus names assigned to Megadytes, Bifurcitus Brinck, 1945, Paramegadytes Trémouilles & Bachmann, 1980, and Trifurcitus Brinck, 1945, are elevated to genus rank since they are variously paraphyletic. The two species assigned to Cybister (Neocybister) Miller, Bergsten & Whiting, 2007, Cybister (Neocybister) festae Griffini, 1895, and Cybister (Neocybister) puncticollis (Brullé, 1837) re reviewed and diagnosed with the former redescribed and its type specimens considered for the first time since its description. Another evidently new species and possible new genus, Megadytes species, IR57 (Ribera et al. 2008), from Peru, is also characterized, but not formally treated because of lack of important data for the single, partial specimen. Diagnostic features are illustrated for the entire group.
["Diving beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

DNA barcoding and morphology revealed the existence of seven new species of squat lobsters in the family Munididae (Decapoda, Galatheoidea) in the southwestern Pacific
Specimens of squat lobsters belonging to the family Munididae Ahyong et al., 2010, representing the genera Garymunida Macpherson & Baba, 2022, Trapezionida Macpherson & Baba, 2022 and Typhlonida Macpherson & Baba, 2022, were collected during several cruises around New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea, Southwest Pacific. The integrative study of these specimens revealed the presence of one new species in Garymunida, five in Trapezionida and one in Typhlonida. We describe and illustrate these new species, providing some new data on the taxonomy of several rare or scarcely studied species of Trapezionida. Molecular data from different markers (mitochondrial and nuclear) was also included, based on data availability, to support the taxonomic status of different species. Finally, a key to species for each genus is also provided.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

﻿The Trichoptera of Panama XXIV. Fifteen new species and two new country records of the caddisfly genus Neotrichia (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae), with a key to all known Panamanian species
In this paper, 15 new species of microcaddisflies in the genus Neotrichia Morton, 1905 (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) from Panama are described and illustrated: Neotrichia abrebotella sp. nov.; Neotrichia candela sp. nov.; Neotrichia codaza sp. nov.; Neotrichia embera sp. nov.; Neotrichia flennikeni sp. nov.; Neotrichia honda sp. nov.; Neotrichia landisae sp. nov.; Neotrichia lenati sp. nov.; Neotrichia mindyae sp. nov.; Neotrichia panamensis sp. nov.; Neotrichia parajarochita sp. nov.; Neotrichia paraxicana sp. nov.; Neotrichia snixae sp. nov.; Neotrichia spangleri sp. nov.; Neotrichia veraguasensis sp. nov. In addition, two new country records are presented: Neotrichia minutisimella (Chambers, 1873) and Neotrichia vibrans Ross, 1944. Finally, the male of N. vibrans is re-illustrated, the female is illustrated and descriptive information given, and a key is provided to the males of all current Neotrichia species in Panama. There are now 45 species of Neotrichia and a total of 525 Trichoptera species recorded from Panama.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿A revision of the millipede family Paracortinidae (Diplopoda, Callipodida)
The taxonomy of the family Paracortinidae Wang & Zhang, 1993 is revised based on literature, old and recently collected material. A new genus Crassipetalum Akkari & Stoev, gen. nov. is described, to accommodate a new species Crassipetalum magnum Akkari & Stoev, gen. nov. et sp. nov. and a recently described species Crassipetalum inflatum (Chen, Zheng & Jian, 2023), comb. nov. The genus Scotopetalum Shear, 2000 hitherto described for the Vietnamese species S. warreni Shear, 2000 and subsequently synonymised with the genus Paracortina Wang & Zhang, 1993 is here resurrected and supplemented with another species, S. chinensis (Stoev & Geoffroy, 2004), comb. nov., ex Paracortina chinensis Stoev & Geoffroy, 2004. The status of the fourth genus in the family, Angulifemur Zhang, 1997, is reconfirmed. Based on recently collected specimens from China, two new species of the genus Paracortina are described: P. asciformis Akkari & Stoev, sp. nov. (Sichuan Prov., Lixian County) and P. kabaki Akkari & Stoev, sp. nov. (Yunnan, Shangrila County). The Vietnamese species Paracortina multisegmentata Stoev & Geoffroy, 2004 and Paracortina kyrang Nguyen, Stoev, Nguyen & Vu, 2023 are considered of uncertain taxonomic position within Paracortinidae. Differential diagnoses for the proposed genera as well as for all the species are presented, and descriptions or descriptive notes for all the species are provided, using a standardised terminology, and when possible, accompanied by micrographs of the habitus and gonopod structures. An identification key based on gonopod structures is proposed for all the members of the family. A discussion on species affinities, secondary sexual characters, troglomorphic characters, geographical distribution, and habitat preferences are also provided together with a distribution map for all members of the family.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿Description of three new species of Callyntrura (Japonphysa) (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from China with the aid of DNA barcoding
Callyntrura(s.l.) Börner, 1906 is the largest genus of the subfamily Salininae and contains 11 subgenera and 98 species from all over the world (mainly Asia), with eight species recorded from China. In the present paper, three new species of Callyntrura(s.l.) are described from China: C. (Japonphysa) xinjianensis sp. nov.; C. (J.) tongguensis sp. nov. and C. (J.) raoi sp. nov. Their differences in colour pattern, chaetotaxy and other characters are slight, however distances of COI mtDNA support their validation as three new distinct species. A key to the Chinese Callyntrura(s.l.) is provided.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics"]

﻿Descriptions of two new species of Phaecadophora Walsingham, 1900 (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae, Olethreutinae) from China
Two new species of the genus Phaecadophora, P. dactylina sp. nov. and P. vascularis sp. nov., are described from the southwest China. Photographs of the adults and the genitalia are provided. Keys to the species of the genus based on the male and female genitalia are given.
["Olethreutini"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Broadly sympatric occurrence of two thief ant species Solenopsis fugax (Latreille, 1798) and S. juliae (Arakelian, 1991) in the East European Pontic-Caspian region (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) is disclosed
This paper presents numeric morphology-based evidence on the broadly overlapping distribution of two thief ant species Solenopsis fugax (Latreille, 1798) and S. juliae (Arakelian, 1991) in the East European Pontic-Caspian region. The paper integrates two autonomous data collections and independent analyses performed by different researchers, using different equipment, considering different character combinations, and evaluating partially different samples. Five type series, the neotype series of Solenopsis fugax (Latreille 1798) and the type series of S. flavidula (Nylander, 1849), S. (Diplorhoptrum) fugax var. furtiva Santschi, 1934, S. (Diplorhoptrum) fugax var. pontica Santschi, 1934, S. (Diplorhoptrum) fugax var. scytica Santschi, 1934 were nested in one cluster and we propose the junior synonymy of the latter four taxa names with S. fugax. The other cluster contained only one type specimen of Solenopsis nitida (Dlussky & Radchenko, 1994) measured from AntWeb images. The naming of this cluster was based on both verbal statements and measurements of gynes given in the original description of Solenopsis juliae (Arakelian, 1991), which represents the oldest available name for this cluster. Hence, S. nitida is proposed as junior synonym of S. juliae. Solenopsis cypridis Santschi, 1934 is raised to species rank based on investigation of worker and gyne type specimens.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿Corrections and additions to the catalogue of the bees (Hymenoptera, Anthophila) of Russia
The present study is an update to the first catalogue of Russian bees published in 2017. For the Russian fauna, five recently described species are reported, as well as 45 species newly recorded since the first catalogue (including one invasive species), nine species overlooked in this previous Russian checklist, and 17 published synonymies. Original records are provided for nine species previously unknown to Russia and, as a taxonomic act, one species, Anthidium ovasi Warncke, 1980, syn. nov., is synonymised with Icteranthidium floripetum (Eversmann, 1852). Additionally, 14 species are excluded from the original catalogue and numerous other taxonomic changes and clarifications are included. The present work revises the total number of genera for Russia to 64 and the total number of species to 1,268.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿A conspectus of Australian Apotropina (Diptera, Chloropidae) with the description of two new species
The genus Apotropina (Diptera, Chloropidae) has a global distribution with more than 80 valid described species, of which 22 are known to occur in Australia. The Australian Apotropina fauna is poorly studied, with many species known from single type specimens, more with the morphology of the other sex unknown, and there have been no new species descriptions since 1959. Here, we describe two new species from Australia, A. maculigena Riccardi, sp. nov. and A. popeye Ang, sp. nov., and provide an updated illustrated key. We also provide a conspectus of the known Australian Apotropina with images of types and collate all original descriptions and subsequent taxonomic notes of relevance as supplementary information. Finally, we discuss the validity of two known syntype specimens of A. bispinosa due to incongruencies with the species description.
["Apotropina"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

﻿New genera and new species of Hahniidae (Araneae) from China, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam
Four new genera and 11 new species of Hahniidae Bertkau, 1878 are described. The new genera are Goblinia Lin & Li, gen. nov., with the type species G. tiane Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Guangxi, China; Myahnia Lin & Li, gen. nov., with the type species M. kanpetlet Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Chin, Myanmar; Troglohnia Lin & Li, gen. nov., with the type species Tr. qiubei Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan, China and Typhlohnia Lin & Li, gen. nov., with the type species Ty. rongshui Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Guangxi, China. Seven additional new species are described: Tr. dafang Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Guizhou, China; Tr. shidian Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♀) from Yunnan, China; Tr. wuding Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan, China; Ty. banlaksao Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♀) from Bolikhamxay, Laos; Ty. kaiyang Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♀) from Guizhou, China; Ty. sondoong Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Quang Binh, Vietnam and Ty. suiyang Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♀) from Guizhou, China.
["Comb-tailed spiders"]

﻿Taxonomic review of the Calotes versicolor complex (Agamidae, Sauria, Squamata) in China, with description of a new species and subspecies
Calotes wangi sp. nov., a new species of the agamid genus Calotes Cuvier, 1817, from southern China and northern Vietnam, is described. This species can be distinguished from all known congeners by a combination of morphological characteristics and genetic divergence in the mitochondrial tRNA, ND2, and CO1 genes. Molecular phylogenetic analysis revealed that the new species was formed as a monophyletic group and that considerable genetic divergence existed between its congeners (minimum p-distance, 4.6%). Calotes wangi sp. nov. is distinguished by a combination of the following characteristics: average SVL < 90 mm for adult males; 10–14 dorsal eyelid scales; scales on side of neck and adjacent shoulder area pointing obliquely upward; keels on neck scales weakly to strongly developed; fold in front of the shoulder absent; pair of dark triangular patches extending from the front of the shoulder to the jaw angles; and orange coloration of the tongue. Calotes wangi sp. nov. is similar to C. irawadi but differs in having scales between the nasal shield and the orbit and a fourth toe with a claw that can reach between the eyes and tympanum (even to the snout when hind the limbs are adpressed forward). Phylogenetic analyses revealed two well-supported subspecies, Lineages A and B in C. wangi sp. nov., with mean uncorrected p-distances between them of 2%. We propose that Lineage A, which is mainly from the central and southern Wuzhi Mountains on Hainan Island, is a subspecies, C. w. hainanensis ssp. nov. Lineage B mainly comprises individuals from other sites on the island plus the adjacent mainland, and is described as subspecies, C. w. wangi ssp. nov. A diagnostic key to all Calotes species of China is also provided.
["Calotes irawadi"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿A new Asian lazy toad of the genus Scutiger Theobald, 1868 (Anura, Megophryidae) from southern Tibet, China
In this study, a new species named Scutiger luozhaensis sp. nov. is described from Luozha, southern Tibet, China. Genetic analysis based on two mitochondrial genes 16S rRNA and COI and the nuclear gene RAG1 revealed that the new species belongs to an independent phylogenetic clade close to S. gongshanensis and S. nyingchiensis and shares no RAG1 haplotype with other species. Morphological comparisons based on examined specimens and literatures indicated that it can be diagnosed from congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) body moderate, male body length 47.0–67.2 mm (n = 13), female body length 49.8–66.2 mm (n = 8); (2) maxillary teeth and budding absent; (3) numerous tiny dense nuptial spines present on dorsal surface of fingers I, II and inner surface of finger III of males in breeding condition with similar size; (4) spine patches on belly of males in breeding condition absent; (5) spines on inner surface of forearm and upper arm of males in breeding condition absent; (6) small patches of black spines present near armpit of males in breeding condition absent; (7) adult males without vocal sac; (8) some large warts and tubercles on dorsum gathered into short skin ridges with several spines present on top; (9) space between upper eyelids wider than upper eyelids; (10) spots or irregular cross bands on limbs absent; (11) webbing between toes rudimentary; (12) coloration of dorsal body olive brown to bronze.
["Molecular phylogenetic analyses"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿A new cryptic species of terrestrial breeding frog of the Pristimantis danae Group (Anura, Strabomantidae) from montane forests in Ayacucho, Peru
Based on morphological and molecular characters, we describe a new species of terrestrial breeding frog of the Pristimantis danae Group from montane forests of La Mar Province, Ayacucho Department in southern Peru, at elevations from 1200 to 2000 m a.s.l. The phylogenetic analysis, based on concatenated sequences of gene fragments of 16S rRNA, RAG1, COI and TYR suggests that the new species is a sister taxon of a clade that includes one undescribed species of Pristimantis from Cusco, Pristimantis pharangobates and Pristimantis rhabdolaemus. The new species is most similar to P. rhabdolaemus, which differs by lacking scapular tubercules and by its smaller size (17.0–18.6 mm in males [n = 5], 20.8–25.2 mm in females [n = 5] in the new species vs. 22.8–26.3 mm in males [n = 19], 26.0–31.9 mm in females [n = 30] of P. rhabdolaemus). Additionally, we report the prevalence of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) in this species.
["Chytridiomycosis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Larval polyphagy of Cataspilates marceloi (Lepidoptera, Geometridae), a Neotropical geometrid moth with flightless females
Surveys in the arid shrubland of the central Andes revealed larval polyphagy for Cataspilates marceloi Vargas, 2022 (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae, Boarmiini), a geometrid moth with flightless females. This discovery suggests that, as well as in the Holarctic fauna, larval polyphagy would have been important for the evolution of flightlessness among Neotropical geometrid moths of the tribe Boarmiini.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿A review of the anthidiine bees (Apoidea, Megachilidae) in Thailand
Bees of the tribe Anthidiini (Apoidea: Megachilidae) are notable pollinators consisting of resin bees, wool-carder bees, and cleptoparasitic bees. Twelve anthidiine species were historically reported in Thailand, though the taxonomic information of the group was needed revising. In this study, 165 (97♀, 68♂) anthidiine bee specimens deposited at the Chulalongkorn University Natural History Museum, Thailand, were examined with material obtained from various museum collections. Specimens were principally collected in Thailand with some from Laos and Myanmar. Here, at least eight genera and 15 species of anthidiine bees are recognized: Anthidiellum (5), Bathanthidium (1), Eoanthidium (1), Euaspis (4), Pachyanthidium (1), Pseudoanthidium (1), Stelis (1), and Trachusa (1). Dianthidium chinensis Wu, 1962, Eoanthidium chinensis (Wu, 1962), Eoanthidium semicarinatum Pasteels, 1972, and Eoanthidium punjabensis Gupta & Sharma, 1953 are relegated as junior synonyms of Eoanthidium (Hemidiellum) riparium (Cockerell, 1929), stat. nov. Both Anthidiellum (Pycnanthidium) latipes (Bingham, 1897) from Phang Nga and Euaspis aff. wegneri Baker, 1995 from Chumphon were identified as new records for Thailand. Trachusa aff. vietnamensis Flaminio & Quaranta, 2021 from Phitsanulok is a new record for the genus found in Thailand, whereas Pseudoanthidium (Pseudoanthidium) orientale (Bingham, 1897) is a new record for Laos. Annotated comments are provided for some taxa and identification keys for the Thai anthidiine bees is provided.
["Pollinator"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿A new species of pit-viper from the Ayeyarwady and Yangon regions in Myanmar (Viperidae, Trimeresurus)
In a genomic study by Chan and colleagues, pit-vipers of the Trimeresurus erythrurus–purpureomaculatus complex from the Ayeyarwady and Yangon regions in Myanmar were demonstrated to be a distinct species based on robust population genetic and species delimitation analyses. Here, we provide morphological characterizations and a formal description of those populations as a new species. The new species, Trimeresurus ayeyarwadyensis sp. nov., is most closely related to T. erythrurus and T. purpureomaculatus and shares morphological characteristics with both of those species. Some specimens of T. ayeyarwadyensis sp. nov. have green dorsal coloration and no distinct dorsal blotches (a trait shared with T. erythrurus but not T. purpureomaculatus), while others have dark dorsal blotches (a trait shared with T. purpureomaculatus but not T. erythrurus). The distinct evolutionary trajectory of the new species, coupled with the lack of obvious morphological differentiation, represents a classic example of the cryptic nature of species commonly found in the Trimeresurus group of Asian pit-vipers and underscores the need for data-rich analyses to verify species’ boundaries more broadly within this genus.
["Cryptic species complex"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿A survey of pholcid spiders (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Guiyang, Guizhou Province, China
The family Pholcidae C.L. Koch, 1850 is highly diverse in Guizhou Province, southwestern China, and currently contains four genera and 22 species. Nevertheless, the distribution of pholcid spiders is conspicuously patchy in Guizhou. Species from Guiyang are poorly studied, and only Pholcus spilis Zhu & Gong, 1991 has been recorded. A survey was undertaken for the first time to study the pholcids in Guiyang. A total of four species are reported, comprising Belisana yuhaoi Yang & Yao, sp. nov. and three other species: Leptopholcus tanikawai Irie, 1999 (new record for Guiyang), Pholcus spilis Zhu & Gong, 1991 and Spermophora senoculata (Dugès, 1836) (new record for Guizhou).
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Review of the leafhopper tribe Deltocephalini Dallas, 1870 (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae) in Pakistan with description of a new species of Paramesodes
A review of the leafhopper tribe Deltocephalini in Pakistan is provided, including comprehensive illustrated keys to all genera and species, along with their diagnosis and distribution. A new species of Paramesodes is described, P. dirensis sp. nov., which was discovered in the Upper Dir District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A detailed description of this new species is provided together with photographs for visual reference. This tribe now has three genera and 13 species from Pakistan. The genus Deltocephalus Burmeister includes two species, and Maiestas Distant has nine species; Paramesodes Ishihara is now represented with two species.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

On Psalmopoeus Pocock, 1895 (Araneae, Theraphosidae) species and tarantula conservation in Ecuador
Two novel species of Psalmopoeus Pocock, 1895 are described from the north-western and central-western slopes of the Cordillera Occidental of the Andes mountain range in Ecuador. The new species are easily differentiated from other congeners of Psalmopoeus by spermathecae and male palpal bulb morphology and a comparatively distant distribution to the type localities of the geographically nearest known congeners. The diagnosis of P. ecclesiasticus Pocock, 1093 is revised and updated, considering the novel species and observations on spermatheca of this species. Likewise, an evaluation is provided for the new species in terms of conservation due to the various threats impacting ecosystems and ecosystem services of their type localities. Finally, the importance of theraphosid spiders in Ecuador and South America and their possible conservation requirements are discussed and assessed.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Revisiting Szeptyckitheca Betsch & Weiner (Collembola, Symphypleona, Sminthuridae): new species, updated diagnoses, and a key
Szeptyckitheca Betsch & Weiner is a genus of Sphyrothecinae (Sminthuridae) similar to Sphyrotheca Börner, with 13 nominal species. Most descriptions of Szeptyckitheca taxa lack valuable data in face of the current taxonomy of Symphypleona. In this study the previously described species of the genus were surveyed, aiming to provide updated diagnoses for them. Three species were also transferred to Szeptyckitheca: Sphyrotheca karlarum Palacios-Vargas, Vázquez & Cuéllar, 2003, S. peteri Palacios-Vargas, Vázquez & Cuéllar, 2003, and S. koreana Betsch & Weiner, 2009, based on trochanteral and/or dental chaetotaxy. Two new Brazilian species of the genus are described and illustrated, S. andrzeji Medeiros, Bellini & Weiner, sp. nov., with a remarkable reduced ventral dental chaetotaxy not seen in other Neotropical species, and S. cyanea Oliveira, Medeiros & Bellini, sp. nov. with a distinctive large set of head vertex spines (18). Finally, an updated key to all the valid species of the genus is presented.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

﻿Description of the first stygobiotic species of the atyid shrimp genus Sinodina (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae) from Yunnan Province, China
​Sinodina Liang & Cai, 1999, a genus of atyid shrimp, is endemic to China and distributed only in the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. We describe here the thirteen species of Sinodina, and the first cave-dweller of the genus, Sinodina ashima sp. nov., collected from a limestone cave in Shilin County, Yunnan Province. This species can be distinguished from its congeners by the completely degraded pigment and eyes, the extremely long rostrum, the rostral formula and the absence of sexual dimorphism of the third and fourth pereiopods. A phylogenetic analysis based on four genes (COI, 16S, 18S, H3) shows that the new species strongly clustered with the type species of this genus, Sinodina gregoriana (Kemp, 1923), supporting the generic status of this new species.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿The tropiduchid planthopper genus Connelicita Wang & Bourgoin, 2015: two new species from Central Vietnam and new records (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Tropiduchidae)
Two new planthopper species of the tropiduchid genus Connelicita Wang & Bourgoin, 2015, C. bachmaensis Constant & Pham, sp. nov., and C. phongdienensis Constant & Pham, sp. nov. are described from Bach Ma National Park and from the Centre for Conservation of Vietnam Natural Resources and Rescue of Animals and plants, Phong Dien District in Thua Thien-Hue Province, respectively. These new records greatly extend the distribution of the genus, which was known from southern China (Guangxi) and North Vietnam, to the south, reaching the mid area of Central Vietnam. New records are provided for C. haiphongensis Wang & Zhang, 2015, extending the distribution of the species from Cat Ba Island to a large zone in North Vietnam. Illustrations of habitus, details, and male genitalia are given as well as a distribution map and photographs of the habitat. An identification key to the species of Vietnam is provided. The genus Connelicita now comprises five species.
["Bach Ma National Park"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿A new bamboo-feeding species of the genus Pseudosymplanella Che, Zhang & Webb, 2009 (Hemiptera, Caliscelidae, Ommatidiotinae) from China
A new planthopper species, Pseudosymplanella maxima sp. nov., belonging to the genus Pseudosymplanella (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Caliscelidae: Augilini), is described and illustrated, from China. In common with other Chinese Augilini, the new species feeds exclusively on bamboo. Additionally, a key to the two species of Pseudosymplanella is provided.
["Augilini"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

﻿Another new species of the genus Habrophlebia Eaton, 1881 (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae) from the Maghreb
A new species belonging to the genus Habrophlebia Eaton, 1881 is described at the nymphal stage from the Rif Mountains of Morocco. This species presents unique features, such as the chorionic arrangement of the egg and the ornamentation of the posterior margin of abdominal tergites. It is compared to all west European Habrophlebia species and a table with discriminating characters is given. A phylogenetic reconstruction based on COI sequences fully supports the hypothesis of a new species in the Rif Mountains, with possible further distribution in southern Spain.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿A new species of shrew moles, genus Uropsilus Milne-Edwards, 1871 (Mammalia, Eulipotyphla, Talpidae), from the Wuyi Mountains, Jiangxi Province, eastern China
Asian shrew moles, genus Uropsilus, are the most primitive members of family Talpidae. They are distributed mainly in southwestern China and adjacent Bhutan, Myanmar, and Vietnam. In June 2022, we collected five specimens of Uropsilus from Mount Huanggang, Jiangxi Province, eastern China, which is the highest peak of the Wuyi Mountains. We sequenced two mitochondrial (CYT B and 12S rRNA) and three nuclear (PLCB4, RAG1, and RAG2) genes to estimate the phylogenetic relationship of the five shrew moles. We also compared their morphology with recognized species within the genus. Our results show that these specimens collected from Mount Huanggang differ from all named species in Uropsilus. We formally describe the species here as Uropsilus huanggangensis sp. nov. Morphologically, the new species is distinguishable from the other Uropsilus species by the combination of dark chocolate-brown pelage, long snout, enlarged first upper incisor, similarly sized lacrimal and infraorbital foramens, and the curved and sickle-like coronoid process. The genetic distances of the cytochrome b (CYT B) gene between U. huanggangensis and other recognized Uropsilus species ranged between 9.3% and 16.4%. The new species is geographically distant from other species in the genus and is the easternmost record of the Uropsilus. The divergence time of U. huanggangensis was estimated to be the late Pliocene (1.92 Ma, 95% CI = 0.88–2.99).
["Mount Huanggang"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿New nematode Tahamina indica gen. nov., sp. nov. (Nematoda, Dorylaimida, Tylencholaimoidea) from the tropical rainforest, Western Ghats
During a nematological survey in the Western Ghats a new nematode belonging to the superfamily Tylencholaimoida (Dorylaimida) extracted from the rhizosphere of the soil of grasses, is described and illustrated. Tahamina indica gen. nov., sp. nov. is characterized by females with a body length of 1.3–1.4 mm; lip region 8.0 μm wide, approximately one-fourth of the body diameter at the pharyngeal base; amphidial fovea cup-shaped, about one-half as wide as the lip region diameter. Odontostyle 8.0–9.0 μm long, 1.0–1.1 times lip region diameter; guiding ring simple; odontophore rod-like, 10.5–11.5 μm long with basal thickening or minute knobs-like structure; pharynx consisting of a weakly muscular anterior part, expanding abruptly into a cylindrical basal bulb, occupying about two-fifths to one-half of the total pharyngeal length; female genital system monodelphic-opisthodelphic with anterior uterine sac; vulval opening pore-like, and tail elongated with a slight dorsally curved tip. Males not found.
["Morphometrics"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Investigation on the true identity of Entomobrya nigriventris Stach, 1929 (Collembola, Entomobryidae) with the description of a new species
The present paper gives a detailed and illustrated redescription of Entomobrya nigriventris Stach, 1929, and the description of a new species collected from open sand steppe habitat in Hungary. Based on the colour pattern, E. arenaria Winkler, Flórián & Dányi, sp. nov. is close to E. violaceolineata Stach, 1963 but differs from it by the morphology of the labral papillae and the dorsal macrochaetotaxy of the head, Th II, and Abd II–IV. The new species is also characterised by dark ventral body colouration in adult specimens. In this regard, an overview of European Entomobrya species in which the dark ventral side may occur is also provided.
["Central Europe"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine and environmental studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿A new species of Floronia Simon, 1887 from Baiyan Cave in Guizhou Province, China (Araneae, Linyphiidae)
Floronia huishuiensis Zhou & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀) is the first species in the genus Floronia to be described from Baiyan Cave in Guizhou Province, China. The new species is similar to F. zhejiangensis Zhu, Chen & Sha, 1987 but differs in structural details of the genital organs, primarily by the presence of a well-developed retrolateral tibial apophysis, a hook-shaped distal end of the radix in the male palp, and the rectangular posterior median plate in the epigyne. The illustration of copulatory organs of F. bucculenta (Clerck, 1757) and F. zhejiangensis Zhu, Chen & Sha, 1987 were reproduced here for comparison. A detailed description, photographs of the habitus and copulatory organs of the new species and a distribution map is provided.
["Copulatory organ"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

﻿Further notes on the Afrotropical genus Festucula Simon, 1901 (Araneae, Salticidae)
Notes on four Festucula species are provided. One species, F. botswana sp. nov., is described as new to science (♀, Botswana). The name F. monticola is revalidated and the male of this species is assigned. The female of F. lawrencei is described for the first time. A new record of F. leroyae is provided.

﻿Simonia gen. nov., a new spider genus (Araneae, Theridiosomatidae) from Southeast Asia
A new theridiosomatid genus, Simonia Yu & Lin, gen. nov., is described, with Baalzebub youyiensis Zhao & Li, 2012 (♂♀, China, Vietnam and Laos) as the type species. Three species are included in Simonia gen. nov., i.e., S. youyiensis (Zhao & Li, 2012) comb. nov. ex. Baalzebub, S. steineri Yu & Lin, sp. nov. (♀, Huapan, Laos), and S. sumatra Yu & Lin, sp. nov. (♀, Sumatra, Indonesia). A key to theridiosomatid genera endemic to the Oriental Realm and a key to species of the new genus are provided, as well as diagnoses, descriptions and a distribution map for the species of Simonia gen. nov.
["Indo-Burma"]

﻿The first record of Tricholathys Chamberlin & Ivie, 1935 (Araneae, Dictynidae) from China, with a new combination and descriptions of seven new species
The genus Tricholathys, found for the first time in China, is surveyed and seven new species, T. burangensis sp. nov. (♂♀, Thibet), T. chenzhenningi sp. nov. (♂♀, Qinghai), T. hebeiensis sp. nov. (♀, Hebei), T. lhunzeensis sp. nov. (♂♀, Tibet), Tricholathys relictoides sp. nov. (♂♀, Xinjiang), T. serrata sp. nov. (♂♀, Tibet), and T. xizangensis sp. nov. (♂♀, Tibet), are described. A new combination is proposed for Tricholathys alxa (Tang, 2011) comb. nov., ex. Argenna Thorell, 1870. Descriptions of all new species are provided, together with digital images, illustrations, and a distribution map. The DNA barcode information of four recently collected species is also provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿A new species of alkali-sink Paruroctonus Werner, 1934 (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae) from California’s San Joaquin Valley
Herein a new species of Paruroctonus Werner, 1934 is described from alkali-sink habitats in the San Joaquin Desert of central California, Paruroctonus tulare sp. nov. It can be differentiated from other Paruroctonus by a combination of morphological features including scalloped pedipalp fingers in males, specific setal counts and morphometric ratios, and specific patterns of fuscous pigmentation. It also inhabits a unique distribution allopatric with all other Paruroctonus species except P. variabilis Hjelle, 1982. Photographs of a large series of live P. tulare sp. nov. from across their range and detailed images of several morphological features are provided, their distribution is modeled, a haplotype network is presented, and details about their habitat, ecology, and conservation are discussed.
["Central Valley"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿An update to the taxonomy of Serica MacLeay, 1819 (sensu lato) from China (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericinae, Sericini)
In this paper we update the knowledge on the species of Serica McLeay, 1819 (sensu lato) occurring in Yunnan, Sichuan, and Shaanxi provinces, China. Three new species are described: Serica allonanhua Liu, Ahrens, Li & Su, sp. nov., S. breviantennalis Liu, Ahrens, Li & Su, sp. nov., and S. fengensis Liu, Ahrens, Li & Su, sp. nov. The key to the species groups and species is updated. The habitus and male genitalia of the new species are illustrated, and a map showing their distribution is provided. New distributional data are given for four species.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

﻿Austropallene halanychi sp. nov., a new species of sea spider (Pycnogonida, Callipallenidae) from the Ross Sea, Antarctica
Here we present Austropallene halanychi sp. nov., a new species of pycnogonid within the family Callipallenidae (Pycnogonida), collected from the Ross Sea, Antarctica. While retaining key morphological features known for the genus Austropallene Hodgson, 1915a, the new species is distinguished from congeners by its much larger size, along with the combined absence of a denticle on the inner surface of the fixed finger of the chelifore claw along with the presence of small conical outgrowths where the fixed finger of the chelifore claw meets the movable finger on both the dorsal and ventral sides, and also the ability to fully close the chelifore claw. Additionally, the complete mitochondrial genome of A. halanychi is consistent with other members of the genus Austropallene in terms of gene order and directionality. A phylogenetic tree consisting of mitochondrial protein-coding gene data places A. halanychi as sister to Austropallene cornigera (Möbius, 1902). Additionally, a phylogenetic tree constructed using partial COI data from other callipallenids placed the new species in a clade containing the genus Austropallene. The combination of molecular data in addition to key morphological differences from similar species in the genus leaves no doubt that the new taxon is a new Antarctic species of Austropallene.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿A new species of forest hedgehog (Mesechinus, Erinaceidae, Eulipotyphla, Mammalia) from eastern China
The hedgehog genus Mesechinus (Erinaceidae, Eulipotyphla) is currently comprised of four species, M. dauuricus, M. hughi, M. miodon, and M. wangi. Except for M. wangi, which is found in southwestern China, the other three species are mainly distributed in northern China and adjacent Mongolia and Russia. From 2018 to 2023, we collected seven Mesechinus specimens from Anhui and Zhejiang provinces, eastern China. Here, we evaluate the taxonomic and phylogenetic status of these specimens by integrating molecular, morphometric, and karyotypic approaches. Our results indicate that the Anhui and Zhejiang specimens are distinct from the four previously recognized species and are a new species. We formally described it here as Mesechinus orientalis sp. nov. It is the only Mesechinus species occurring in eastern China and is geographically distant from all known congeners. Morphologically, the new species is most similar to M. hughi, but it is distinguishable from that species by the combination of its smaller size, shorter spines, and several cranial characteristics. Mesechinus orientalis sp. nov. is a sister to the lineage composed of M. hughi and M. wangi from which it diverged approximately 1.10 Ma.
["Anhui"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

﻿Review of the Messor semirufus complex (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in Greece
Messor is a diverse genus of Myrmicinae with 168 extant species and subspecies. In the Mediterranean, some of its taxa historically were classified as members of the Messor instabilis group (sensu Santschi), of which 19 are known from the eastern Mediterranean. Here, the Messor semirufus complex of the Balkan Peninsula that assembles a distinct subsection of members of the instabilis group is defined and treated. In total, five species are recorded, including three that are new. Messor atanassovii Atanassov, 1982 is redescribed and confirmed for Bulgaria (Thracian Plain, Struma, and Mesta Valley, Pirin Mt., and Eastern Rhodopi) and Greece (Epirus, Ionian Islands, Central and Eastern Macedonia, and Thraki). Three species are described as new to science: Messor danaes Salata, Georgiadis & Borowiec, sp. nov. (Cyclades: Serifos), Messor kardamenae Salata & Borowiec, sp. nov. (Dodecanese: Kos, Nisyros, Rhodes, and Tilos), and Messor veneris Salata, Georgiadis & Borowiec, sp. nov. (Cyclades: Milos). The fifth member of the complex, Messor creticus Borowiec & Salata, 2019, maintains its status of Cretan endemic.
["Balkans"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿On the specific status of Scelimena spicupennis and a new record of S. discalis from China with mitochondrial genome characterization (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae)
The genus Scelimena Serville (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae) from China is reviewed. One species, Scelimena spicupennis Zheng & Ou, 2003 (China: Yunnan) is redescribed, and a new record of Scelimena discalis (Hancock, 1915) from China is given. An annotated identification key for Chinese species of the genus Scelimena is provided. Mitochondrial genes of S. spicupennis and S. discalis were sequenced and annotated. The sizes of the two sequenced mitogenomes are 17,552 bp (S. discalis), and 16,069 bp (S. spicupennis), respectively. All of the PCGs started with the typical ATN (ATT, ATC or ATG) or TTG codon and most ended with complete TAA or TAG codon, with the exception of the ND5 gene, which terminated with an incomplete T. The mitochondrial genomes for these two recorded species are provided, and the constructed phylogenetic tree supports their morphological taxonomic classification. The topology of the phylogenetic tree showed that three species of Scelimena were clustered into one branch and formed a monophyletic and a holophyletic group.
["Mitochondrial"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Four new hypogean species of the genus Triplophysa (Osteichthyes, Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae) from Guizhou Province, Southwest China, based on molecular and morphological data
Recently described cave species of the genus Triplophysa have been discovered in southwestern China, suggesting that the diversity of the genus is severely underestimated and that there may be many undescribed species. In this work, four new species of the genus Triplophysa are described from southwestern Guizhou Province, China, namely Triplophysa cehengensis Luo, Mao, Zhao, Xiao & Zhou, sp. nov. and Triplophysa rongduensis Mao, Zhao, Yu, Xiao & Zhou, sp. nov. from Rongdu Town, Ceheng County, Guizhou, Triplophysa panzhouensis Yu, Luo, Lan, Xiao & Zhou, sp. nov. from Hongguo Town, Panzhou City, Guizhou, and Triplophysa anlongensis Song, Luo, Lan, Zhao, Xiao & Zhou, sp. nov. from Xinglong Town, Anlong County, Guizhou. These four new species can be distinguished from all recognized congeners by a combination of morphological characteristics and significant genetic divergences. The discovery of these species increases the number of known cave species within the genus Triplophysa to 39, making the genus the second most diverse group of cave fishes in China after the golden-line fish genus Sinocyclocheilus. Based on the non-monophyletic relationships of the different watershed systems in the phylogenetic tree, this study also discusses the use of cave species of the genus Triplophysa to determine the possible historical connectivity of river systems.

﻿Balitora anlongensis, the first cavefish species of the genus Balitora (Teleostei, Balitoridae) from Guizhou Province, southwest China
This work describes a new species, Balitora anlongensis sp. nov., collected from a cave at Xinglong Town, Anlong County, Guzihou, China. Phylogenetic trees reconstructed based on two mitochondrial and three nuclear genes show that the new species represents an independent evolutionary lineage with large genetic differences, 7.1%–12.0% in mitochondrial gene cytochrome b and 9.2%–12.1% in cytochrome oxidase subunit 1, from congeners. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from the 18 species currently assigned to the genus Balitora by a combination of characters, most clearly by having two pairs of maxillary barbels; 8½ branched dorsal-fin rays; 5½ branched anal-fin rays; pectoral fin not reaching pelvic fin origin; dorsal-fin origin in front of pelvic fin origin; eye small (eye diameter approximately equal to outer maxillary barbel length); and fins lacking pigment in live fish. The new species represents the first record of Balitora inhabiting caves in China and increases the number of species in the genus Balitora in its present concept from 18 to 19. The study suggests that more evidence is needed to further clarify the taxonomic composition of the genus Balitora.
["Nanpanjiang River"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

﻿Four new species of Sphaeroderma Stephens (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini) from Taiwan, with discussion on genus boundaries based on S. flavonotatum Chûjô and S. jungchani sp. nov.
Three new species of Sphaeroderma Stephens, 1831, S. hsui sp. nov., S. changi sp. nov., and S. sheipaensis sp. nov. are described based on specimens from Shei-Pa National Park, Taiwan. A fourth new species, S. jungchani sp. nov., is described based on specimens from southern Taiwan. Delimitation of the genus is discussed based on S. flavonotatum Chûjô, 1937, which is redescribed, and the new species, S. jungchani sp. nov.
["Flea beetles"]

﻿Two new species of the planthopper genus Usana Distant, 1906 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Achilidae) from China
Two new species of the achilid planthopper genus Usana Distant, 1906 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Achilidae, Myconinae, Plectoderini), U. tongmaiensis Long & Huang, sp. nov. and U. rotalarius Long & Huang, sp. nov., are described and illustrated from Xizang and Chongqing. A key to all known species and a map of geographic distributions for Chinese taxa is provided.
["Achilidae"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿A new genus and five new species of pseudoscorpions (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpiones, Withiidae) from Colombia
The pseudoscorpion family Withiidae is widely distributed around the world, with most of its diversity in tropical areas. Five new species and a new genus from Colombia are described: Cystowithius florezi sp. nov., Parawithius bromelicola sp. nov., Oligowithius achagua sp. nov., and the genus Paciwithius gen. nov. with two species Paciwithius valduparensis sp. nov. and Paciwithius chimbilacus sp. nov. A reassessment of the subgenus Dolichowithius (Oligowithius) Beier, 1936 allows the elevation to a full generic level, and the transfer of the only known species to Oligowithius, forming the new combination Oligowithius abnormis (Beier, 1936), comb. nov.
["Arachnids"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿On the synonymy of Dactylopisthoides Eskov, 1990 and Uusitaloia Marusik, Koponen & Danilov, 2001 (Araneae, Linyphiidae)
Two erigonine genera from East Siberia are synonymized: Uusitaloia Marusik, Koponen & Danilov, 2001, syn. nov. = Dactylopisthoides Eskov, 1990. Two new combinations are established: Dactylopisthoides transbaicalicus (Marusik, Koponen & Danilov, 2001), comb. nov. and Dactylopisthoides wrangelianus (Marusik & Koponen, 2009), comb. nov. both ex. Uusitaloia. The epigyne of D. wrangelianus is illustrated for the first time. A new, updated diagnosis of Dactylopisthoides is proposed. The copulatory organs of both sexes of D. hyperboreus and D. wrangelianus are illustrated by SEM images.

﻿Description of three new species and new distributional data for three species of Homalotylus (Hymenoptera, Encyrtidae) from China
Homalotylus tianjinensis Zu, sp. nov., H. bicolor Zu, sp. nov. and H. guangxiensis Zu, sp. nov. are described as new to science; H. agarwali Anis & Hayat, 1998, H. hemipterinus (De Stefani, 1898) and H. varicolorus Krishnachaitanya & Manickavasagam, 2016 are newly recorded from China. A key to Chinese species based on females is also presented.
["Chalcidoidea"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿A new species of Orchomenella (Amphipoda, Tryphosidae) described from hydrothermal vent in the Okinawa Trough, Northwest Pacific
A new species of the family Tryphosidae, Orchomenella compressa sp. nov., is described from hydrothermal vents in the Okinawa Trough. This is the first known Orchomenella species found in vent fields. Important morphological characters that differentiate O. compressa sp. nov. from its congeners are the absence of eyes, the compressed distal three articles of gnathopod 2, the shape of the posterior margin of epimerons 2 and 3, and the number of dorsal spines on the telson. The genetic divergence of the analyzed COI gene clearly supports this new taxon.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

﻿An updated world checklist of velvet worms (Onychophora) with notes on nomenclature and status of names
More than a decade has passed since the publication of the only world checklist available for Onychophora. During this period, numerous nomenclatural acts and taxonomic changes have been suggested within the group and a wealth of novel data has been published on many taxa. Herein, the up-to-date taxonomic scenario within Onychophora is presented, with appraisal of name status. This checklist covers both extant (Peripatidae and Peripatopsidae) and fossil taxa, and each species is accompanied by information on synonyms, type designation, holotype location, type locality, and language of original description. Additional remarks include nomenclatural inconsistencies, synonymizations, name misspellings, conflicting collecting event data, availability of taxonomically informative molecular data, etc. According to the data, 237 species are currently assigned to Onychophora: 140 of Peripatopsidae, 92 of Peripatidae, and five fossil species with unclear relationship to extant taxa. Since the previous checklist, 37 species have been added to Onychophora, representing an increase of 18.5% in the diversity described for the group. Yet, taxonomic descriptions seem slow-paced, with an average of 3.6 onychophoran species being described annually. From the taxonomic standpoint, 216 species are valid, although many of them require morphological revision and molecular characterization; 21 species exhibit major taxonomic ambiguities and have been regarded as nomina dubia. Recurrent taxonomic issues identified in the literature include inaccurate collecting event data, doubtful taxonomic assignment of molecular sequences, and non-observance of nomenclatural rules. These and other taxonomic aspects are addressed herein in the light of the directives established by the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature.
["Catalogue"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿Going deeper and further: a range and depth extension for the deep-sea feather star Paratelecrinus cubensis (Carpenter, 1881) (Comatulida, Atelecrinidae), first record from the Western Pacific
A specimen belonging to the deep-sea feather-star family Atelecrinidae was collected in April 2018 at the Kocebu Guyot at 1294 m deep. Based on its morphological characters, the specimen was identified as Paratelecrinus cubensis (Carpenter, 1881). This species of feather star is restricted to the deep sea and was known only from 12 records from the Bahamas and Cuba at depths of 567–892 m. The data represent the first record from the Western Pacific Ocean and the deepest record known, extending the depth where this feather star has been found to beyond 1000 m. The morphological characteristics of the Kocebu Guyot specimen were essentially identical to the morphology of the neotype, with a slight difference in the dorsal spine at the end of the cirri. The phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 16S rRNA genes, 28S rRNA genes, and 18S rRNA genes reveal a close relationship of P. cubensis with P. wyvilli. Results of our molecular phylogenetic analysis are consistent with our morphological identifications. Our find extends the known geographical distribution of the feather star P. cubensis to the Western Pacific Ocean and provide insights into deep-sea biodiversity in the Kocebu Guyot.
["Magellan Seamounts"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿A further study on the spider genus Baiyuerius Zhao, Li & Li, 2023, from China (Agelenidae, Coelotinae)
Baiyuerius is a newly erected genus of Coelotinae spiders comprising five species distributed in southern China and northern Vietnam. Two additional new species, B. shenzhen sp. nov. (male and female) and B. yuelu sp. nov. (male and female), are described here. Three new combinations are proposed, namely Baiyuerius acroprocessus (Zhang, Zhu & Wang, 2017) comb. nov., Baiyuerius globasus (Wang, Peng & Kim, 1996) comb. nov. and Baiyuerius rugosus (Wang, Peng & Kim, 1996) comb. nov. Descriptions, photographs, and a distribution map of the known and newly proposed species are provided.
["Distribution of new species"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Morphological, acoustic and genetic identification of a reproducing population of the invasive African clawed frog Xenopus laevis (Anura, Pipidae) recently discovered in Belgium
Using external morphology of adults and tadpoles, osteology from high-resolution microcomputed tomography, vocalization analysis, and DNA sequence data, the identity of a reproducing Belgian population of invasive Xenopus at the current northernmost edge of the distribution of the genus in Europe was assessed. All data concur to an identification as Xenopus (Xenopus) laevis (Daudin, 1802). Genetically it is most closely related to populations of the Cape region in South Africa. No studies on the natural history of the Belgian Xenopus population and its impact on the local environment have been made to date.
["Amphibians"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿First discovery of the ant genus Eburopone Borowiec, 2016 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Dorylinae) in the Oriental realm, with description of a new species from Vietnam
The doryline ant genus Eburopone Borowiec, 2016 currently contains only one valid species, E. wroughtoni (Forel, 1910) from southern Africa, with a considerable number of undescribed species awaiting formal description in the Afrotropical and Malagasy regions. In the present paper, Eburopone easoana sp. nov. is described based on workers and dealate queens from a colony series collected in an evergreen forest on the Dak Lak Plateau of Vietnam (Ea So Nature Reserve, Dak Lak Province). The worker of the new species is morphologically clearly distinguished from E. wroughtoni by the combination of following characteristics: i) frontal line distinct, extending a little beyond mid-length of cranium; ii) anterior (frontoclypeal) margins of torulo-posttorular complex not forming conspicuous lobes protruding over anterior clypeal margin in full-face view; iii) mandibles when closed in full-face view forming only a little space between anterior clypeal margin and mandibles; iv) promesonotal suture faint and inconspicuous; v) abdominal segment III in dorsal view distinctly wider than long, with lateral margins only feebly convex. This represents the first discovery of the genus Eburopone in the Oriental realm, revealing the disjunct distribution of the genus. A partial sequence of the mitochondrial COI gene (658 bp) is provided as a DNA barcode for the new species. A worker-based key to the doryline genera of the Oriental realm is also provided.
["Central Highlands"]

﻿Two new species of the bamboo-feeding planthopper genus Neobelocera Ding & Yang from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae)
Two new species of the bamboo-feeding genus Neobelocera Ding & Yang, 1986, N. furcata sp. nov. and N. parvula sp. nov., are described and illustrated from China. A key based on the male genitalia is given to distinguish species of this genus and a map provided to show their geographic distribution. Habitus photos for adults and illustrations of male genitalia are also given.
["Fulgoromorpha"]

﻿Three new species of Grandilithus Liu & Li, 2022 (Araneae, Phrurolithidae) from southern China
Three new species of Grandilithus Liu & Li, 2022 are described from southern China on the basis of both sexes: G. chongzuo sp. nov. from Guangxi, G. xiaohuangshan sp. nov. from Guangdong and G. lanxi sp. nov. from Jiangxi. A distribution map of these three species is provided.
["Diagnosis"]

﻿Review of the genus Xenicotela Bates, 1884 (Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Lamiini)
The species of the genus Xenicotela Bates, 1884 are reviewed. One new species, Xenicotela mucheni sp. nov., is described from Yunnan, China. Monochamus binigricollis Breuning, 1965 and Monochamus villiersi Breuning, 1960 are transferred to Xenicotela as follows: Xenicotela villiersi (Breuning, 1960) comb. nov. and Xenicotela binigricollis (Breuning, 1965) comb. nov. Xenicotela distincta (Gahan, 1888) is newly reported from Myanmar and Xenicotela binigricollis is excluded from the fauna of China. All species are redescribed and illustrated. A key to the known Xenicotela species is provided.

﻿New and little-known stonefly species of the Rhopalopsole vietnamica ‘western assemblage’ group (Plecoptera, Leuctridae) from China
We examined Chinese stonefly specimens of the Rhopalopsole vietnamica ‘western assemblage’ group. A new species from Hainan Province, R. bawanglinga Li, Li & Yang, sp. nov. is described and illustrated from male and female adults, and it is compared to closely related taxa. The hitherto unknown female of R. hainana Li & Yang, 2010 is described. Morphological evidence is presented for the identity of R. dentiloba Wu, 1973, on the basis of topotypes from Yunnan Province, southwestern China.
["female description"]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Epitomapta aumakua sp. nov., a new species of apodous sea cucumber from Hawai`i (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea, Apodida)
Epitomapta aumakua sp. nov. occurs at a depth of 2.5 m in Kualoa, O`ahu, Hawai`i, living in coarse sand. It is distinctive in having 12 pinnate tentacles, each tentacle with three pairs of digits and 6–8 sensory cups. The body wall bears papillae or oval bumps, and the length of body reaches a maximum length of 18.4 mm after relaxation.
["Leptosynaptinae"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and Coastal Ecosystems"]

﻿A taxonomic revision of the freshwater crab genus Parvuspotamon Dai & Bo, 1994 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Potamidae), with descriptions of a new genus and two new species
The taxonomy of the potamid crab genus Parvuspotamon Dai & Bo, 1994, with two species native to Yunnan province of southwest China, is revised based on morphological and molecular data. In order to stabilise the taxonomy of these species (and the genus), two separate genera are hereby designated: Parvuspotamon and Songpotamon gen. nov. While Parvuspotamon is restricted to P. yuxiense Dai & Bo, 1994, as a monotypic genus, P. dixuense Naruse, Chia & Zhou, 2018, is transferred to a new genus, Songpotamon gen. nov. In addition, two new species of Songpotamon gen. nov. are described herein: S. funingense sp. nov. and S. malipoense sp. nov. Songpotamon gen. nov. morphologically most resembles Parvuspotamon and Chinapotamon Dai & Naiyanetr, 1994, but can be distinguished by the combination of characters in the carapace, third maxilliped, thoracic sternites, and male first gonopod. The genetic data derived from the mitochondrial 16S rDNA also supports the monophyly of these new taxa.

﻿Taxonomic and nomenclatural notes on Geodiapria longiceps Kieffer, 1911 (Hymenoptera, Diapriidae) and synonymy of the genus Geodiapria Kieffer, 1910
This paper reviews the status of Geodiapria and its nominotypical and only included species G. longiceps. Geodiapria was previously understood to be very similar to, and doubtfully separated from the genus Basalys. We use integrative taxonomy (morphology, DNA-barcoding, phylogenetic tree building) to show that the valid name for what was G. longiceps Kieffer, 1911 is now Basalys rufocinctus (Kiefer, 1911) and that Geodiapria is consequently a junior synonym of Basalys syn. nov. The following taxa are new synonyms of B. rufocinctus: Loxotropa longiceps Wasmann, 1909, syn. nov., G. longiceps Kieffer, 1911, syn. nov., L. rufosignata Kieffer, 1911, syn. nov. Basalys rufocinctus is newly reported from Corsica, Germany, Norway and Spain.
["Basalys rufocinctus"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Renicoris robustus, a new genus and species of the subfamily Harpactorinae (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) from China
Renicoris gen. nov. and its type species Renicoris robustus sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae) from Yunnan, China, are described and illustrated. A key to separate the new genus and its closely related genera is provided.
["Assassin bug"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿New species and newly recorded species of Anisandrus Ferrari, 1867 ambrosia beetles from Thailand (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini)
Five new species, Anisandrus montanus sp. nov., A. phithakpa sp. nov., A. tanaosi sp. nov., A. triton sp. nov., and A. uniseriatus sp. nov. are described from Thailand. Anisandrus carinensis (Eggers, 1923) is reported from Thailand for the first time and A. apicalis is removed from the Thai fauna. With the inclusion of the species described and recorded here, the diversity of Anisandrus is increased to 40 species, of which 11 occur in Thailand. A synoptic list and a key to the Anisandrus of Thailand are presented.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿A new species of Xenophrys (Amphibia, Anura, Megophryidae) from southern Tibet, China
A new species of Xenophrys is described from Yadong County, Tibet Autonomous Region, China based on morphological and molecular evidence. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial genes 16S rRNA and COI indicated that this new species represents an independent lineage and the minimum p-distance based on 16S rRNA between this species and its congeners is 4.4%. Additionally, the new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) small body size, SVL 17.9–22.2 mm in adult males and SVL 23.4 mm in the single adult female; (2) tympanum indistinct, supratympanic fold distinct; (3) canthus rostralis well-developed, snout tip far beyond the margin of the lower lip; (5) pupil vertical; (6) vomerine teeth present, maxillary teeth present; (7) tongue notched posteriorly; (8) supernumerary tubercles absent, subarticular, metacarpal and metatarsal tubercles indistinct; (9) relative finger lengths I < II < IV < III, finger tips rounded, slightly expanded relative to digit widths; (10) toes with narrow lateral fringes and tarsal folds; (11) a dark triangular marking with light edge between eyes, a dark “)(”-shaped marking, with light edge, present on center of dorsum, pectoral glands on sides of the breast.

﻿Phylogeography and genetic diversity of the Japanese mud shrimp Upogebia major (Crustacea, Decapoda, Upogebiidae): Natural or anthropogenic dispersal?
Upogebia major (De Haan, 1841) is known for forming huge burrows in sandy, intertidal areas that can extend to depths of over 2 m. Despite its widespread distribution in East Asia and Russia, the genetic relatedness of its regional populations remains uncertain, likely owing to difficulties in specimen collection. Therefore, to appraise the phylogeographic patterns, genetic diversity, and morphological variety of U. major, the mitochondrial DNA of specimens collected from Japan, Korea and China were subjected to molecular phylogenetic analyses of COI genes, alongside morphological assessment. As a result, we discovered four principal groups; of these, Group 1 consisted predominantly of Japanese specimens, while Groups 3 and 4 were interpreted as having originated from the continent. Group 2 exhibited genetic segregation from both continental and Japanese descent. Group 1 mostly comprising Japanese specimens implies that the planktonic larvae of U. major were disseminated north and south by ocean currents encompassing the Japanese archipelago. In contrast, individuals probably originating from the continent were discovered in Lake Notoro, Hokkaido and Matsukawa-ura, Fukushima in northeastern Japan, indicating possible introduction from the continent through ocean currents or unintentional introduction with other organisms imported. Additionally, one of the specimens collected from Matsukawa-ura exhibited significant genetic and morphological differences from other specimens, suggesting the possibility of being a subspecies. The outcomes of this study not only offer valuable insights into the origins of distribution of U. major but also introduce a novel challenge of assessing the coexistence of two routes: natural and anthropogenic dispersion.
["Artificial introduction"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Water beetles (Coleoptera) associated with Afrotemperate Forest patches in the Garden Route National Park, South Africa
Southern Afrotemperate Forest is concentrated in the southern Cape region of South Africa and whilst it is relatively well known botanically, the fauna, specifically the aquatic invertebrate fauna, is poorly documented. The majority of remaining intact forest habitat is contained within the Garden Route National Park (GRNP), which straddles the provincial boundary between the Western and Eastern Cape. This study undertakes a survey of the water beetle fauna inhabiting the GRNP. The aquatic ecosystems within temperate forests of the region are poorly researched from an ecological and biodiversity perspective, despite being known to harbour endemic invertebrate elements. We collected water beetles and in situ physico-chemical data from a total of 31 waterbodies across the park over two seasons (summer and late winter) in 2017. The waterbodies sampled were mostly small freshwater perennial streams and isolated forest ponds. A total of 61 beetle taxa was recorded (29 Adephaga, 32 Polyphaga) from these waterbodies. The water beetle fauna of these forests appears to be diverse and contains many species endemic to the fynbos-dominated Cape Floristic Region, but very few of the species appear to be forest specialists. This is in contrast to the fynbos heathland habitat of the region, which harbours a high number of water beetle species endemic to this habitat, often with Gondwanan affinity. Our study is the first to document the water beetles of Afrotemperate Forests in the southern Cape region and provides an important baseline for future work on such habitats in the region and in other parts of southern Africa.
["aquatic Coleoptera"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

﻿Remarks on the genus Phymatodiscus Berlese, 1917, with the description of Phymatodiscidae fam. nov. and Bardizon eotvosi gen. nov., sp. nov. from Indonesia (Acari, Mesostigmata)
Phymatodiscidae fam. nov. is diagnosed, with Phymatodiscus as the type genus. A new genus, Bardizon gen. nov., with Bardizon eotvosi sp. nov. (from Indonesia) as the type species, is erected to accommodate the Phymatodiscus species with an eye-like dorsal depression. Six Phymatodiscus species are reclassified as Bardizon: B. aokii (Hiramatsu, 1985), comb. nov., B. haradai (Hiramatsu, 1985), comb. nov., B. oculatus (Hirschmann, 1977), comb. nov., B. kuni (Kontschán & Starý, 2011), comb. nov., B. insolitus (Kontschán & Ripka, 2016), comb. nov., and B. malayicus (Kontschán & Starý, 2012), comb. nov. The new species differs from the previously described congeners in the sculptural pattern, the shapes of the dorsal and ventral setae, and the sculptural pattern of the sternal shield of the male and the genital shield of the female. A list of all known phymatodiscid species is presented. Phymatodiscus titanicus (Berlese, 1905) is moved to the genus Bostocktrachys: B. titanicus (Berlese, 1905), comb. nov. (family Trachyuropodidae).
["Soil mites"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿Formosania immaculata, a new species of hillstream loach (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Gastromyzontidae) from the Ou-Jiang River, Southeast China
Formosania immaculata, a new species, is described from the Ou-Jiang basin in Zhejiang Province, Southeast China. It is distinguished from other species of the genus by having a combination of the following characteristics: body without obvious mottling; snout length longer than postorbital length; abdominal scaleless area extending to middle of pectoral-fin base; shorter rostral barbels, the outermost pair length 112.9%–140.0% of eye diameter; and shorter lower lip papillae, length 19.9%–24.4% of eye diameter. Its validity is also affirmed by its distinct Cytb gene sequence divergence from all congeners and its monophyly recovered in a Cytb gene-based phylogenetic analysis.
["cytochrome b"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿Five new species of Bryaxis Kugelann (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from Korea and a nomenclatural note on Bryaxis mahunkai Löbl
The genus Bryaxis Kugelann (Goniaceritae: Bythinini) is the most species-rich genus of the subfamily Pselaphinae and is mainly distributed in the Palearctic region. Although previous studies have documented 14 species in the Korean Peninsula, the true diversity, ecology, and immature stages of the genus are still inadequately known. In this study, five new Korean species are described: B. grandinodus sp. nov., B. uljinensis sp. nov., B. fabaiformis sp. nov., B. girinensis sp. nov., and B. nemorosus sp. nov. Illustrations of the habitus and other morphological details, and a distribution map are provided. In addition, Bryaxis leechanyoungi Nomura & Lee, 1993 is proposed as a new synonym of B. mahunkai Löbl, 1975 based on the original description and illustrations of diagnostic characters.
["B. fabaiformis sp. nov."]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿New species of the genus Trichosetodes Ulmer, 1915 (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae) from Ratanakiri province, Cambodia, based on morphological and molecular data
Three new species of Trichosetodes, namely T. carmelae sp. nov., T. katiengensis sp. nov. and T. ratanakiriensis sp. nov. are described and illustrated by male specimens. The male genitalia of T. carmelae sp. nov. can be distinguished from the other 16 species of the genus found in Southeast Asia by the shape of the phallicata. The phallicata of T. carmelae sp. nov. bears a tuft of long hairs in the middle of the dorsal edge. Trichosetodes katiengensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from the other species in Southeast Asia by the shape of the phallicata which is divided into dorsal and ventral branches in lateral view, and T. ratanakiriensis sp. nov. by the characters of the left inferior appendage and the shape of segment IX. The posterior end of the left inferior appendage of T. ratanakiriensis sp. nov. is not forked and the ventral and lateral views of the posteroventral lobes of segment IX are rounded. Illustrations of male genitalia of Trichosetodes kampongspeuensis Malicky & Kong, 2020 are provided for comparison. The molecular diversity of new Trichosetodes species was analyzed using the mitochondrial large subunit ribosomal rRNA gene region (16S rRNA). In terms of their genetic divergence, T. ratanakiriensis sp. nov. and T. kampongspeuensis exhibited remarkable proximity, with only a 1.4% distance. On the contrary, T. carmelae sp. nov. displayed genetic disparity exceeding 6.3% when compared to both T. ratanakiriensis sp. nov. and T. kampongspeuensis.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Two new species of Sinolachnus Hille Ris Lambers (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Lachninae) from China
Two new Sinolachnus species from China, Sinolachnus rubusis Qiao & Li, sp. nov. feeding on Rubus sp. from Shaanxi and Sichuan Provinces, and Sinolachnus yunnanensis Qiao & Li, sp. nov. feeding on Elaeagnus sp. from Yunnan Province, are described and illustrated. Keys to Sinolachnus species distributed in China are presented. All examined specimens are deposited in the National Zoological Museum of China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
["Alate"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions"]

﻿Redescription of the hispidoberycid, Hispidoberyx ambagiosus Kotlyar, 1981 from Taiwan, with comments on its morphology (Beryciformes, Stephanoberycoidei, Hispidoberycidae)
A rare spiny-scale pricklefish, Hispidoberyx ambagiosus Kotlyar, 1981, is redescribed based on four specimens collected from Taiwan. Their sampling locality represents the northernmost record of the family, which extends the family’s distribution from the eastern Indian Ocean and the South China Sea to northeastern Taiwan in the northwestern Pacific Ocean. A detailed description of these specimens and the first description of its sagittal otoliths are provided. In addition, the specimens are compared with other known specimens. Intraspecific variation of some morphological characters are discussed.
["biodiversity"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine animal studies overview", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿Cryptotermes pugnus (Blattodea, Isoptera, Kalotermitidae), a new drywood termite species from the Brazilian Caatinga dry forest and key to South American Cryptotermes Banks, 1909
A new termite species, Cryptotermes pugnus sp. nov., is described from northeastern Brazil. The winged imago of C. pugnus is distinguished from most congeners by the lack of arolia and the multiple branches connecting the median vein to the radial sector. The soldier is unique among South American Cryptotermes by its cuboidal head capsule and very rugose postclypeus. The new species constitutes the fourteenth Cryptotermes species on the continent for which we provide a key to soldiers.
["Arolium"]

﻿First record of the genus Passiena (Araneae, Lycosidae) from China, with the first description of the male of P. spinicrus Thorell, 1890 from Malaysia
The genus Passiena is recorded for the first time from China with Passiena duani sp. nov. (♂♀) from Guangxi described here. In addition, the male of P. spinicrus Thorell, 1890 is described for the first time based on a specimen from Malaysia and colour photographs of freshly collected material are also presented. Detailed morphological descriptions, photographs, genital illustrations, and a distribution map for the two species are provided.
["New record"]

﻿A new species of Passaloecus Shuckard (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae) from China, with a key to Oriental species
A new species of Passaloecus Shuckard, P. birugatus Bashir & Chen, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Yunnan Province, China. The new species can be easily distinguished from known species of Passaloecus by its very long petiole, which is distinctly longer than wide, obscure scrobal suture, propodeum rugae and striations, body punctation, and coloration. An identification key to the Oriental species of Passaloecus is given.

﻿The genus Epeolus Latreille, 1802 (Hymenoptera, Apidae) in Central Asia
Available information about bees of the genus Epeolus in Central Asia is summarized. Twenty species are currently known from this area. Two new species are described: E. albus Astafurova & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. and E. pesenkoi Astafurova, sp. nov. Two species are newly recorded from Central Asia: E. asiaticus Astafurova & Proshchalykin, 2022 and E. nudiventris Bischoff, 1930. The hitherto unknown male of E. mikhailovi Astafurova & Proshchalykin, 2021 is described, and lectotypes are designated for E. ruficornis Morawitz, 1875 and E. vinogradovi Popov, 1952.
["Anthophila"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿One new genus and four new species of Liocranidae Simon, 1897 (Arachnida, Araneae) from China and Vietnam
Four new species of the family Liocranidae are described from China and Vietnam. The new genus Sinocranum gen. nov., is erected to accommodate S. menghai sp. nov. (♂♀) from China. Further new species described include Koppe ninger sp. nov. (♀) from China, Xantharia baizilongi sp. nov. (♂♀) from China and X. cucphuong sp. nov. (♂) from Vietnam. In addition, Xantharia is transferred from Miturgidae to Liocranidae. Koppe and Xantharia are reported from China and Vietnam, respectively, for the first time.
["Geotechnical and Geomechanical Engineering", "Methane Hydrates and Related Phenomena", "Aquatic and Environmental Studies"]

﻿A new species of Kodormus Barber, with a redescription of the genus, taxonomic notes, and a key to the species of the genus (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Reduviidae, Stenopodainae)
Kodormus davidmartinsi sp. nov. is described. Taxonomic notes on the other species of Kodormus Barber, 1930, including the description of their male genitalia, are provided. The record of Kodormus bruneosus Barber, 1930 from Brazil and information about the female of the species are presented for the first time. A redescription of Kodormus and a key for its species are provided. Photographs of the holotypes of K. barberi (Costa Lima, 1941), K. bruneosus, and of a paratype of K. oscurus Maldonado & Bérenger, 1996 are presented.
["Male genitalia"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Three new species of the spider genus Utivarachna Kishida, 1940 (Araneae, Trachelidae) from China and Vietnam
Three new species belonging to the kinabaluensis group of the trachelid genus Utivarachna Kishida, 1940 are reported from China and Vietnam: U. linyejiei sp. nov. (♂♀), U. tamdao sp. nov. (♂♀), and U. zhengguoi sp. nov. (♂♀). Type specimens are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing, China and the Vietnam National Museum of Nature (VNMN) in Hanoi, Vietnam.
["biodiversity"]

﻿Seven new species of Tetranemertes Chernyshev, 1992 (Monostilifera, Hoplonemertea, Nemertea) from the Caribbean Sea, western Pacific, and Arabian Sea, and revision of the genus
The marine ribbon worm genus Tetranemertes Chernyshev, 1992 currently includes three species: the type species T. antonina (Quatrefages, 1846) from the Mediterranean Sea, T. rubrolineata (Kirsteuer, 1965) from Madagascar, and T. hermaphroditica (Gibson, 1982) from Australia. Seven new species are described: T. bifrost sp. nov., T. ocelata sp. nov., T. majinbuui sp. nov., and T. pastafariensis sp. nov. from the Caribbean Sea (Panamá), and three species, T. unistriata sp. nov., T. paulayi sp. nov., and T. arabica sp. nov., from the Indo-West Pacific (Japan and Oman). As a result, an amended morphological diagnosis of the genus is offered. To improve nomenclatural stability, a neotype of Tetranemertes antonina is designated from the Mediterranean. The newly described species, each characterized by features of external appearance and stylet apparatus, as well as by DNA-barcodes, form a well-supported clade with T. antonina on a molecular phylogeny of monostiliferan hoplonemerteans based on partial sequences of COI, 16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, and 28S rRNA. Six of the seven newly described species, as well as T. rubrolineata, possess the unusual character of having a central stylet basis slightly bilobed to deeply forked posteriorly in fully grown individuals, a possible morphological synapomorphy of the genus. In addition, an undescribed species of Tetranemertes is reported from the Eastern Tropical Pacific (Panamá), increasing the total number of known species in the genus to eleven.
["Belize"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿Another step through the crux: a new microendemic rock-dwelling Paroedura (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from south-central Madagascar
Using an integrative taxonomic approach including genetic and morphological data, we formally describe a new microendemic gecko species belonging to the Paroedura bastardi clade, previously referred to as P. bastardi D. We name this taxon currently known from Anja Reserve and Tsaranoro Valley Forest (south-central Madagascar), as P. manongavato sp. nov. The new species differs from other species of the P. bastardi clade by ≥ 12.4% uncorrected p-distance at the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene and it forms a monophyletic group in the COI mtDNA phylogenetic tree. It lacks haplotype sharing at the nuclear KIAA1239 and CMOS genes with the other species of the same complex, including the syntopic P. rennerae. Given its limited extent of occurrence and high levels of habitat fragmentation linked to forest clearances and fires, we propose the IUCN Red List Category of Critically Endangered, based on the B1ab(iii) criterion. The conservation value of Anja Reserve and Tsaranoro Valley Forest is remarkable. Preserving the remaining deciduous forest habitat is of paramount importance to protect these narrow-range reptile species.
["Anja Reserve"]

﻿Utility of cytochrome c oxidase I for the deciphering of unstable phylogeny and taxonomy of gorals, genus Nemorhaedus Hamilton Smith, 1827 (Bovidae, Ovibovina)
Gorals represent ungulate mammals of the Palearctic and Indo-Malayan realms that face habitat destruction and intense hunting pressure. Their classification has been the subject of various (mainly genetic) assessments in the last decade, but some results are conflicting, hampering some conservation-based decisions. Genetic sampling of gorals has increased considerably in recent years, at least for mitochondrial (mt) DNA. Results based on two mt genes (cytochrome b and the D-loop) are currently available. Still, the utility of cytochrome oxidase subunit I remains unanalysed, even though it belongs among the gene markers that enable a correct species identification in mammals. This study examines phylogenetic relationships and species delimitation in gorals using all currently available cytochrome oxidase subunit I sequences, including the not yet analysed goral population from Pakistan. Our results of various phylogenetic approaches, such as maximum parsimony, likelihood and Bayesian inference, and exploration of species boundaries via species delimitation support the validity of six species of goral, namely N. baileyi, N. caudatus, N. cranbrooki, N. evansi, N. goral, and N. griseus. This result accords well with results based on other mt genes, especially the cytochrome b from the highly exhaustive data sampling. Our study also summarises common sources of errors in the assessment of goral phylogeny and taxonomy and highlights future priorities in understanding goral diversification.
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿A new species of the genus Conosiphon Becker, 1923 and the first records of this genus for Europe (Diptera, Asilidae)
A new species of Conosiphon Becker, 1923, Conosiphon ianus Álvarez Fidalgo & van den Broek, sp. nov., is described from Spain, representing the first record of this genus for Europe. It is illustrated in high-resolution photographs and the first ecological information is provided, as well as a key to all species tentatively placed in this genus.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿A new jewel-like species of the pill-millipede genus Sphaerobelum Verhoeff, 1924 (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida, Zephroniidae) from Thailand
A new species of the giant pill millipede genus Sphaerobelum is described: Sphaerobelum turcosa sp. nov. from the northeastern part of Thailand. Species delimitation is based on morphological characters and COI sequence data. The new species can be clearly discriminated from congeners by its greenish-blue body color, the face mask-like appearance of the thoracic and anal shields jointly when rolled up, and the combination of the following four characters: (1) the coxa of the second leg laterally with a sharp and long process, (2) the tarsi of legs 4–21 with 6–7 ventral spines, (3) the anterior telopods consisting of four conspicuous telopoditomeres, and (4) the immovable, slender (not strongly humped) and distally curved finger of the posterior telopods without a membranous spot. The interspecific COI sequence divergence between the new species and other Sphaerobelum species ranges from 17% to 23% (mean 20%). The intergeneric COI sequence divergence between the new species and Zephronia species ranges from 18% to 21% (mean 20%). The relationships among Sphaerobelum and Zephronia species based on the COI sequence data were not resolved in this study. Sphaerobelum turcosa sp. nov. is restricted to limestone habitat in Loei province and is probably endemic for the Thai fauna.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Discovery of a new cryptic Achalinus Peters, 1869 (Serpentes, Xenodermidae) species from Hunan Province, China
A new species, Achalinus sheni sp. nov., from central Hunan Province is described, based on the results of molecular systematics and morphological characters according to five specimens. Our molecular phylogeny inferred from the mitochondrial CO1 gene fragment revealed that this new species is most closely related to A. yunkaiensis, but a considerable amount of genetic divergence exists between them (p-distance ranging from 5.8% to 6.4%) and much distinct genetic divergence exists compared with other known Achalinus species (p-distance ranging from 10.4% to 15.8%), supporting its validity. Morphologically, it can be distinguished from its congeners by: (1) dorsal scales strongly keeled, 23 rows throughout the body, the outmost row smooth and significantly enlarged; (2) tail relatively short, TaL/TL 0.183 ~ 0.224; (3) the suture between internasals subequal to the suture between prefrontals; (4) loreal one, subrectangular, LorH/LorL 0.53 ~ 0.57; (5) ventrals 161–170, anal entire, subcaudals 55–61, not paired; (6) the length of supraocular equal to or longer than the length of upper anterior temporal; and (7) vertebral line inconspicuous and subcaudal streak absent. Currently, 27 species of Achalinus are known in the world, amongst which 20 species are distributed in China. Moreover, a key to species of the genus Achalinus is provided in this study.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Amplicon metagenomics of dung beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae) as a proxy for lemur (Primates, Lemuroidea) studies in Madagascar
Dung beetles (Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae) are among the most cost-effective and informative biodiversity indicator groups, conveying rich information about the status of habitats and faunas of an area. Yet their use for monitoring the mammal species, that are the main providers of the food for the dung beetles, has only recently been recognized. In the present work, we studied the diet of four endemic Madagascan dung beetles (Helictopleurus fissicollis (Fairmaire), H. giganteus (Harold), Nanos agaboides (Boucomont), and Epilissus splendidus Fairmaire) using high-throughput sequencing and amplicon metagenomics. For all beetle species, the ⅔–¾ of reads belonged to humans, suggesting that human feces are the main source of food for the beetles in the examined areas. The second most abundant were the reads of the cattle (Bos taurus Linnaeus). We also found lower but significant number of reads of six lemur species belonging to three genera. Our sampling localities agree well with the known ranges of these lemur species. The amplicon metagenomics method proved a promising tool for the lemur inventories in Madagascar.
["Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿First complete mitochondrial genome of the tribe Coccini (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Coccidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Soft scale insects (Hemiptera, Coccidae) are important pests of various agricultural and horticultural crops and ornamental plants. They have negative impacts on agriculture and forestry. The tribe Coccini represents one of the most ancient evolutionary lineages of soft scale insects. However, no complete Coccini mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) is available in public databases. Here, we described the complete mitogenome of Coccus hesperidum L., 1758. The 15,566 bp mitogenome of C. hesperidum had a high A+T content (83.4%) and contained a typical set of 37 genes, with 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs) and two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs). Only seven tRNAs had the typical clover-leaf secondary structure and the remaining tRNAs lacked the DHU arm, TψC arm or both. Moreover, a comparative analysis of all reported scale insect mitogenomes from GenBank database was performed. The mitogenomes of scale insects showed high similarities in base composition and A+T content. Additionally, our phylogenetic analysis confirmed the monophyly of Coccomorpha and revealed that the archaeococcoids were the most basal lineage within Coccomorpha, while Ericerus pela and Didesmococcus koreanus, belonging to Coccidae, were often mixed with Aclerdidae, making Coccidae a paraphyletic group. These findings expand the mitogenome database of scale insects and provide new insights on mitogenome evolution for future studies across different insect groups.
["Coccus hesperidum"]
["Research on scale insects", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

﻿A new species of torrent catfish, Liobagrus geumgangensis (Teleostei, Siluriformes, Amblycipitidae), from Korea
In a recent survey of populations of the Korean torrent catfish Liobagrus, a distinctive species was discovered from the Geum River and its tributaries flowing into the western coast of Korea, and here described as a new species, L. geumgangensis sp. nov. It is distinguishable from other congeners by a combination of the following characters: I, 8 pectoral fin-rays; 52–56 caudal-fin rays; a relatively short occiput to dorsal-fin origin distance (6.9–9.8% SL); a short pelvic-fin insertion to anal-fin origin distance (11.9–17.3% SL); a long dorsal-fin base (10.6–13.5% SL); 8–9 gill rakers; 5–8 serrations on the pectoral fin; the body and fins are dark yellow, the margins of the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are dark brown, but the outermost rim is faintly yellow. Analysis of the cytb gene also confirmed that L. geumgangensis is a monophyletic lineage distinct from other congeners.
["Catfishes"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Two new species of terrestrial frogs of the Pristimantis gladiator complex (Anura, Strabomantidae) from the Ecuadorian Andes, with insights on their biogeography and skull morphology
The explosive diversity of rainfrogs (Pristimantis spp) reaches its highest levels in the mountains of the Tropical Andes, with remarkable cryptic species mainly in unexplored areas of Ecuador. Based on phylogenetics, morphometric traits, skull osteology and bioacoustics, we describe two new species of Pristimantis, previously confused with Pristimantis gladiator, that belong to the subgenus Trachyphrynus traditionally known as the Pristimantis myersi species group. The two new taxa are closely related, but have allopatric distributions. We discuss the importance of the Quijos and Pastaza River valleys in the diversification along Amazonian slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes.
["Cryptic species"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿A new species related to Pardosa atrata (Araneae, Lycosidae) from Armenia makes the distribution range of the atrata group disjunctive
Species of wolf spiders considered in the Pardosa atrata group are surveyed, and comparative figures of all species included in the group are presented for the first time. A new species, P. armeniaca sp. nov., is described from the shore of Lake Sevan (Armenia) based on both sexes. Pardosa narymica Savelyeva, 1972 from East Kazakhstan Oblast’ is synonymized with the trans-Palaearctic P. atrata (Thorell, 1873). It was found that the record of P. atrata (sub P. lapponica) by Schenkel from British Columbia and reflected in the World Spider Catalog in fact refers to P. concinna (Thorell, 1877), a member of the P. lapponica group. The distribution of three species consideredin the atrata group are mapped. The discovery of P. armeniaca sp. nov. has led to a re-evaluation of the distribution range, previously thought to be continuous, now showing a disjunctive pattern.
["Caucasus"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿A new species of Rhyncholagena Lang, 1944 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Miraciidae) from Palau
A new species of Miraciidae Dana, 1846, Rhyncholagena cuspis sp. nov., was described from Palau. Morphological descriptions and gene fragment sequence barcoding were performed on the 11th species of Rhyncholagena Lang, 1944 collected from sandy sediment samples in the subtidal zone of the Philippine Sea, Palau. Morphological characteristics were compared and an updated identification key was provided. A new species, Rhyncholagena cuspis sp. nov., was found to be morphologically similar to Rhyncholagena littoralis Por, 1967 and R. bermudensis Malt, 1990. This is the first record of the genus Rhyncholagena in Palau. The study provides basic data for future studies and highlights the need for continued exploration of marine biodiversity in Palau and other regions.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿Two new species of Varicus from Caribbean deep reefs, with comments on the related genus Pinnichthys (Teleostei, Gobiidae, Gobiosomatini, Nes subgroup)
Tropical deep reefs (~40–300 m) are diverse ecosystems that serve as habitats for diverse communities of reef-associated fishes. Deep-reef fish communities are taxonomically and ecologically distinct from those on shallow reefs, but like those on shallow reefs, they are home to a species-rich assemblage of small, cryptobenthic reef fishes, including many species from the family Gobiidae (gobies). Here we describe two new species of deep-reef gobies, Varicus prometheus sp. nov. and V. roatanensis sp. nov., that were collected using the submersible Idabel from rariphotic reefs off the island of Roatan (Honduras) in the Caribbean. The new species are the 11th and 12th species of the genus Varicus, and their placement in the genus is supported by morphological data and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Additionally, we also collected new specimens of the closely-related genus and species Pinnichthys aimoriensis during submersible collections off the islands of Bonaire and St. Eustatius (Netherland Antilles) and included them in this study to expand the current description of that species and document its range extension from Brazil into the Caribbean. Collectively, the two new species of Varicus and new records of P. aimoriensis add to our growing knowledge of cryptobenthic fish diversity on deep reefs of the Caribbean.
["Gobies"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Three new species of Otacilia Thorell, 1897 (Araneae, Phrurolithidae) from South China
Three new Otacilia species were collected from Jiangxi Provinces, China during a survey of the spider fauna of the region: Otacilia anfu Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. guanshan Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), and O. mingyueshan Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀). All species are described and illustrated with photographs and SEM micrographs, and their distribution is also mapped.
["Jiangxi Province"]

﻿Oreonectes damingshanensis (Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae), a new species of stream fish from Guangxi, Southwest China
In this work, a new species of the genus Oreonectes is described, named Oreonectes damingshanensis Yu, Luo, Lan, Xiao & Zhou, sp. nov., collected from the Damingshan Mountains of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Phylogenetic trees constructed based on the mitochondrial Cyt b showed that the new species represents an independent evolutionary lineage, with uncorrected genetic distances (p-distance) from congeners ranging from 6.1% to 8.9%. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from five other species of the genus by a combination of characters. The discovery of this new species raises the number of known species of Oreonectes from five to six. Our study suggests that O. platycephalus may be a complex containing multiple species and that previously recorded areas need to be further delimited and reevaluated.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿A new species of the Baetis fuscatus group (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Morocco
Baetis rifensis sp. nov. is the first representative of the Baetis fuscatus group to be described from the Maghreb. It was collected from streams in the Rif region of northern Morocco. All species of the B. fuscatus group are morphologically very similar, with slight differences in colour. Thus, in addition to morphological description, species delimitation based on genetic evidence was carried out. The new species was compared with other members of the B. fuscatus group from the Palaearctic region.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

﻿Description of three new bat-associated species of hard ticks (Acari, Ixodidae) from Japan
In Eurasia, the geographically most widespread ixodid tick species of the bat families Rhinolophidae Gray, Vespertilionidae Gray, and Miniopteridae Dobson were considered to belong to four species, Ixodes vespertilionis Koch, I. collaris Hornok, I. ariadnae Hornok, and I. simplex Neumann. Previous data attest that bat-associated tick species from Eastern Asia show remarkable genetic difference from the above four tick species, but in the absence of detailed morphological comparison these were regarded as conspecific. In this study we compensate for this lack of data on three bat-associated tick species, reporting their morphological comparison, as well as molecular and phylogenetic relationships. According to the results we describe the females of three tick species new to science, i.e., I. nipponrhinolophi Hornok & Takano, sp. nov., I. fuliginosus Hornok & Takano, sp. nov., and I. fujitai Hornok & Takano, sp. nov. In case of all three new tick species the cytochrome c oxidase subunit (coxI) gene showed remarkably high sequence differences from the species that they previously were thought to belong to, well exceeding the average limit delineating ixodid tick species. This, as well as observed morphological differences fully justify their taxonomical status as new species.
["Chiroptera"]
["Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Ophiclypeus, a new genus of Cardiochilinae Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from the Oriental region with descriptions of three new species
A new genus of the braconid subfamily Cardiochilinae, Ophiclypeus gen. nov., is described and illustrated based on three new species: O. chiangmaiensis Kang, sp. nov. type species (type locality: Chiang Mai, Thailand), O. dvaravati Ghafouri Moghaddam, Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov. (type locality: Saraburi, Thailand), and O. junyani Kang, sp. nov. (type locality: Dalin, Taiwan). We provide morphological diagnostic characters to separate the new genus from other cardiochiline genera. A modified key couplet (couplet 5) and a new key couplet (couplet 16) are provided with detailed images for Dangerfield’s key to the world cardiochiline genera to facilitate recognition of Ophiclypeus gen. nov.
["Ichneumonoidea"]

﻿The first record of the genus Julolaelaps Berlese (Acari, Mesostigmata, Laelapidae) in Republic of Korea and description of a new species on a captive giant African millipede (Spirostreptidae, Archispirostreptus)
This paper reports on a new species of mite of the genus Julolaelaps Berlese in Republic of Korea. Females and males of a new species, Julolaelaps gigas sp. nov., were collected on a captive giant African millipede, Archispirostreptus gigas (Spirostreptida: Spirostreptidae). The new species is described and illustrated based on morphological characters of the adult females and males and compared with known congeners. This new species is the first record of Julolaelaps from Republic of Korea. In addition, an updated key to all known species of the genus is presented.
["Arthropod-associated mites"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿Opistognathus ctenion (Perciformes, Opistognathidae): a new jawfish from southern Japan
Opistognathus ctenion sp. nov. (Perciformes: Opistognathidae) is described on the basis of three specimens (17.3–30.6 mm in standard length) collected from the Osumi and Ryukyu islands, southern Japan in depths of 35–57 m. Although most similar to Opistognathus triops, recently described from Tonga and Vanuatu, the new species differs in mandibular pore arrangement, dorsal- and caudal-fin coloration, fewer gill rakers, and lacks blotches or stripes on the snout, suborbital region and both jaws.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine animal studies overview"]

﻿Two new karst-adapted species in the Cyrtodactylus pulchellus group (Reptilia, Gekkonidae) from southern Thailand
The exploration of unsurveyed areas in southern Thailand discovered two new karst-adapted species, Cyrtodactylus sungaiupe sp. nov. and Cyrtodactylus wangkhramensis sp. nov., from Thung Wa and La-ngu Districts, Satun Province, respectively. These new species are members of the C. pulchellus group that occur along the Thai-Malay Peninsula. The new species can be distinguished from all other congeners by their key morphological characters and genetic divergence. Morphologically, Cyrtodactylus sungaiupe sp. nov. and Cyrtodactylus wangkhramensis sp. nov. can be diagnosed from other members by having a combination of differences in body size; degree of dorsal tuberculation; absence of tubercles on ventral surfaces; number of ventral scales, paravertebral tubercles and femoroprecloacal pores in males only; deep precloacal groove only in males; absence of a scattered pattern of white dorsal tubercles; number of dark body bands; and the extent of caudal tubercles on an original tail. Although the two species are sister taxa and have nearly identical morphologies, they are considered to be different species, based on a relatively high uncorrected pairwise genetic divergence of the mitochondrial ND2 gene (6.59–6.89%), statistically significant univariate and multivariate morphological differences (PERMANOVA and ANOVA) and diagnostic characteristics of caudal tuberculation on the original tail. Moreover, Cyrtodactylus sungaiupe sp. nov. and Cyrtodactylus wangkhramensis sp. nov. are currently restricted to their karstic type localities which may serve as a geographic barrier to dispersal and gene flow.
["Cyrtodactylus sungaiupe sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Mitochondrial DNA reveals two recent diverged lineages in Amphioctopus aegina (Gray, 1849) (Cephalopoda, Octopodidae) across the Leizhou Peninsula: a marine ecoregion barrier
Amphioctopus aegina is an economically important species that has been intensively exploited in the marine areas along the Chinese coast. However, the genetic variation and population genetic structure, which would provide valuable information for their fisheries management, have rarely been investigated. In this study, the genetic variation within and among four A. aegina populations throughout its full distribution range were estimated based on mitochondrial cytochrome b DNA sequences. Our results indicated low (Qinzhou) to high (Dongshan) genetic diversities among the four populations. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA), ΦST statistics, phylogenetic tree and haplotype networks revealed two significant (p < 0.01) divergent lineages with a ΦST value of 0.7116 between them, one from a population in Qinzhou and the other from the remaining three populations of Dongshan, Huizhou and Zhanjiang. However, the low genetic distance (0.0032) and only two fixed substitutions between them suggest their recent divergence is possibly due to the last glacial period barriers to gene flow produced by the Leizhou Peninsula. The observed lineage divergence suggests that populations of A. aegina in China are genetically subdivided and may represent evolutionary lineages that should be managed individually.
["A. aegina"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Passalidae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea) from the Caribbean coast of Colombia: synopsis, key, and new species description
Bess beetles (Passalidae) are a subsocial family of Coleoptera with approximately 1000 known species of saproxylophagous diet and pantropical distribution, with few extratropical species. Because of their high levels of endemism (especially in mountains), feeding habits, and complex subsociability; Passalidae is considered an excellent biological subject for taxonomic, biogeographical, and evolutionary studies. Colombia is the richest country with more than 118 recorded species of Passalidae, most of the species being related to humid and mountain areas. Colombia’s Caribbean region constitutes the northern portion of the country, extending for more than 130,000 km2 and includes four of the eight biogeographical provinces of Colombia. Since the 2000s this region has been the subject of systematic surveys for Passalidae; as a result, 18 passalid species have been recorded to date. After new explorations and review of entomological collections, the knowledge of the passalid fauna for the region is updated, recording 28 species (8 new records, 2 new species) for which are provided species diagnoses, photographs, and a taxonomic key. The dry plain, characteristic of the lowlands, is dominated by widely distributed species such as Passalus punctiger and Passalus interstitialis, while the mountainous systems provide species of more restricted distributions, some of them endemic to the Colombian Caribbean.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

﻿The genus Pseudophanias Raffray (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from Nanling Priority Area for Biodiversity Conservation, China
Prior to this study, no species of Pseudophanias Raffray had been reported from Nanling, a vast biodiversity conservation area that spans five provinces in southern China. In this paper, three new species of the genus are described: Pseudophanias furcilobus sp. nov. (Guizhou, Guangxi), P. leigong sp. nov. (Guizhou), and P. mulun sp. nov. (Guangxi), suggesting that additional study on the diversity of this group in the area is required. These species are characterized, keyed, and compared to similar congeners, supplemented with illustrations of the habitus and other morphological characters.
["Ant-loving beetle"]

﻿Molecular and morphological evidence reveals a hidden new taxon in the endemic genus Pseudocuneopsis (Bivalvia, Unionidae) from China
A new species of freshwater mussel belonging to the genus Pseudocuneopsis, namely Pseudocuneopsis wuana sp. nov., is diagnosed and described from Guangxi Province, China. This paper provides a detailed shell morphological description, soft-body anatomical characteristics, and partial sequences of mitochondrial COI as DNA barcode data for the novel species. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners (Pseudocuneopsis sichuanensis, P. yangshuoensis, and P. capitata) by shell shape, beak position, and surface sculpture. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial COI gene reveal that Pseudocuneopsis wuana sp. nov. forms a sister group with P. yangshuoensis and exhibits an interspecific genetic distance of 5.1%. Therefore, we provide robust morphological and molecular evidence to support the validity of this new species.
["Bivalves"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

﻿Taxonomic review of the Oriental genus Polyplocia Lestage, 1921 (Ephemeroptera, Euthyplociidae), with two new records for Thailand
Previously, the euthyplociid mayfly from Thailand was reported as Polyplocia spp. without designation to any nominal species. In this study, the genus Polyplocia Lestage, 1921 in Thailand was reviewed. Two species are recognized: Polyplocia orientalis Nguyen & Bae, 2003 and P. nebulosa Gonçalves & Peters, 2016. This is the first report of P. nebulosa in Continental Asia. Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) data and illustrations based on nymphal characters were used to confirm two different species in Thailand. Additional morphological characteristics of the nymph and eggs of the two species from Thailand are also shown in detail. The taxonomic status of Polyplocia in the Oriental region is reviewed. Keys to known nymphal and imaginal stages are provided and the distribution of Polyplocia in the Oriental region is discussed.
["Burrowing mayfly"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿Novel genomic resources contribute to the systematics of threatened arboreal deer mice of the genus Habromys Hooper & Musser, 1964 (Cricetidae, Neotominae) within a neotomine–peromyscine phylogeny
The Crested-tailed deer mouse, Habromys lophurus, is one of seven arboreal species within the genus Habromys. Species of this genus are monotypic, relatively rare, and occur in low densities. Their geographical distribution is highly fragmented due to being restricted to montane cloud forest in Mesoamerica and they are of conservation concern. All Habromys species are endemic to Mexico, except H. lophurus, which is also distributed in Guatemala and El Salvador. In this study, we obtained and characterized the first mitogenome and several thousand nuclear ultraconserved elements (UCEs) of H. lophurus to determine its phylogenetic position within neotomine–peromyscine mice. Its mitogenome sequence (16,509 bp) is only the second complete mitogenome obtained for this poorly known genus. We also obtained the first nuclear genomic data for H. lophurus, including 3,654 UCE loci, as well as a partial mitogenome of H. simulatus (6,349 bp), and 2,186 UCE for the outgroup Holochilus sciureus. Phylogenetic analyses that included our newly generated genomic data coupled with previously published data from other neotomine–peromyscine mice confirm the placement of H. lophurus, H. simulatus, and H. ixtlani within a highly supported clade. The Habromys clade was nested within a clade that also contains members of the genus Peromyscus and provides further support for the hypothesis of the paraphyly of Peromyscus. These genomic resources will contribute to future phylogenomic studies that aim to further elucidate the evolutionary history of this rare and critically endangered genus of rodents.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Phylogenetic relationships, distribution, and conservation of Roosmalens’ dwarf porcupine, Coendou roosmalenorum Voss & da Silva, 2001 (Rodentia, Erethizontidae)
The New World porcupines of the genus Coendou comprise 16 species of arboreal nocturnal rodents. Some of these species are poorly known and have not been included in phylogenetic analyses. Based on recently collected specimens with associated tissue from the Brazilian Amazonia, we investigate the distribution and phylogenetic relationships of Roosmalens’ dwarf porcupine, Coendou roosmalenorum, using an integrative approach using mitochondrial gene sequences and morphological data from new specimens and localities. Our results recovered C. roosmalenorum in the subgenus Caaporamys. However, analyses of our molecular and combined datasets produced different topologies. The new record shows the presence of C. roosmalenorum 480 km to the southeast of the Rio Madeira and 95 km away from Rio Juruena in Mato Grosso state, indicating a wider distribution in southern Amazonia than suspected. All known records of C. roosmalenorum are in the Madeira biogeographical province, to which it might be endemic.
["Amazonia"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Taxonomic insights into Panopeus lacustris Desbonne (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura) based on morphological and molecular data
The genus Panopeus belongs to the family Panopeidae and comprises a group of brachyuran crabs native to the American continent (except for P. africanus). However, taxonomic problems related to the presence of cryptic species have made it difficult to recognize the species and advance the biological knowledge of this group. Herein, a detailed description based on morphological and molecular data is provided for the species P. lacustris for the first time. Additionally, new morphological characters are proposed for the discrimination of the species. It is strongly suggested to increase the knowledge of the gene pool of the group, explore new morphological characters, and update the species descriptions to advance the group’s knowledge. This proposal will serve as a reference for future studies aimed at clarifying the taxonomic, conservation and ecological status of the species of Panopeus.
["COI gen"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Invertebrate Immune Response Mechanisms", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿Taxonomic reappraisal of the European fauna of the bark beetle genus Cryphalus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae)
Species in the genus Cryphalus are small and notoriously difficult to identify. Even among the relatively well studied European species, erroneous identifications are evident from literature and in museum collections. These misidentifications relate to the small size and similar appearance of Cryphalus species but they are also a product of insufficient diagnostic characters. This is especially unfortunate since some European species are considered pests. Based on the study of more than 1000 specimens and a thorough literature review, robust morphological and molecular evidence supporting all five hitherto recognised native species of Cryphalus in Europe is provided. A key for the reliable identification of these repetition species including new diagnostic characters recognised for the first time, including those from male genitalia, has been constructed. Each native species is provided with a detailed morphological description and their economic significance, distribution, and ecology discussed. Significant genetic variability is observed between certain clusters that should be further explored in a broader geographic context. Lastly, the need for a taxonomic revision of the genus Cryphalus for the entire Palearctic region due to the presence of many similar looking species which are often confused, thus distorting the knowledge of each species is highlighted.
["Cryphalus abietis"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿Exploring the relationship between bats (Mammalia, Chiroptera) and ectoparasitic flies (Diptera, Hippoboscoidea) of the Orinoquia Region in South America
Bat flies (Nycteribiidae and Streblidae) have been used to study co-evolutionary patterns between ectoparasites and bats. In the world, Nycteribiidae and Streblidae are represented by approximately 276 and 237 species, respectively. In regions such as the Orinoquia located in the north of South America (Colombia and Venezuela), the richness of bats is high (more than 100 documented species), but studies on Nycteribiidae and Streblidae are scarce and discontinuous. To contribute to the knowledge of ectoparasitic flies in the Orinoquia, records of flies and their interactions with bats were reviewed, including new records and associations using interaction networks. We documented 124 species of Streblidae and only 12 of Nycteribiidae for the Orinoquia in approximately 102 bat species reported in Colombia and Venezuela. New records for six species of bat flies in Colombia were found (Mastoptera guimaraesi, Noctiliostrebla maai, Paradyschiria parvuloides, Trichobius jubatus, Trichobius parasiticus, and Basilia ferrisi) associated with six species of bats (Cynomops planirostris, Desmodus rotundus, Myotis handleyi, Molossus rufus, Noctilio albiventris, and Phyllostomus hastatus). The bat-ectoparasite interaction networks in the Orinoquia revealed a pattern of antagonistic relationships, with high specialization, modularity, and low connectivity and nesting. The identified networks are between bat fly species belonging to different ecomorphological groups with unique host species. This supports the idea of ecological niche partitioning among ectoparasitic bat flies and hosts. Our study expanded the knowledge of the distribution of some fly species and the associations with bat hosts in Colombia, by presenting morphological descriptions and new observations, which are key to understanding the ecology, diversity, and distribution of these species.
["Bat flies"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

﻿A new species and a key to the genus Leiurus Ehrenberg, 1828 (Scorpiones, Buthidae) from Saudi Arabia
A new species, Leiurus hadb Al-Qahtni, Al-Salem, Alqahtani & Badry, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the Majami al-Hadb Protected Area in the Riyadh Province of Saudi Arabia. The new species is compared with species of Leiurus distributed in Saudi Arabia, especially L. arabicus Lowe, Yağmur & Kovařík, 2014. The integrated results indicate that the population found in Majami al-Hadb represents a distinct species, which is described herein. Moreover, the molecular analysis is conducted on the mitochondrial gene 16S rRNA to compare L. hadb sp. nov. with samples of L. arabicus and L. haenggii from Saudi Arabia. The analysis revealed a genetic divergence ranging from 6.0 to 12%. The combination of molecular evidence and morphological characteristics provides adequate support for recognizing the Majami al-Hadb population as a distinct species. Additionally, an identification key for the genus Leiurus found in Saudi Arabia is also provided.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

﻿Description of the female of Atherimorpha latipennis Stuckenberg (Diptera, Rhagionidae): the first record of brachyptery in Rhagionidae
The genus Atherimorpha White, 1915 is a Gondwanan relic, occurring in South America, Southern Africa and Australia. Females are rarely collected, and are not described for more than half of the known species. The female of Atherimorpha latipennis Stuckenberg, 1956 was collected for the first time in 2021 and is described here, along with a redescription of the male. We describe the differences from the male, with the reduced wings and poorly defined scutellum the most noteworthy. The female of A. latipennis represents the first recorded case of brachyptery in the family Rhagionidae. Possible drivers of brachyptery in Afrotropical Diptera are briefly discussed.
["Aptery"]

﻿Two new species of Cerviniella Smirnov, 1946 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Aegisthidae) from the Yellow Sea, Korea
Two new species, Cerviniella bisegmenta sp. nov. and C. permixta sp. nov., are described in detail with illustrations based on females from the Korean Yellow Sea. These species lacking the fourth leg endopod belong to the mirabilipes group, one of two species groups within the genus Cerviniella Smirnov, 1946. Both species can be distinguished from each other by the surface ornamentation of the cephalothorax, shape of the rostrum tip, antennule segments, armature formula of thoracic legs 1–4, and length ratio of the caudal rami. Cerviniella bisegmenta sp. nov. is characterized by a short caudal ramus and a two-segmented antennary exopod, which are unique within the genus. Cerviniella permixta sp. nov. differs from other congeners of the mirabilipes group by the seven-segmented antennule, the armature formulae of the exopod of the antenna and thoracic legs 1–4, and the modified apical inner element of the second endopodal segment of the second leg. The present study is the first to identify the genus Cerviniella in Korean waters, resulting in extension of its distribution area to East Asia.
["Cerviniellinae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

﻿A preliminary review of Isonychia Eaton, 1871 from Chinese mainland with a re-description of I. kiangsinensis Hsu, 1936 (Insecta, Ephemeroptera, Isonychiidae)
Previously, seven species of the genus Isonychia Eaton, 1871 were reported in China, but they have never been systematically reviewed. After examining our collections from the Chinese mainland, six species and one additional subspecies have been recognized, compared, and photographed. Among them, I. kiangsinensis is redescribed in all stages and a neotype is designated. Its males have triangular penes and nymphs have three dark pigments on each gill. A synonym of I. guixiensis Wu et al., 1992 (I. sinensis Wu et al., 1992) is confirmed. The males of this species have nearly cylindrical penes and clear abdominal markings. Finally, two species and one subspecies are recorded for the first time in China: I. ussurica sibirica Tiunova et al., 2004, I. ussurica ussurica Bajkova, 1970 and I. vshivkovae vshivkovae Tiunova et al., 2004. Together with the I. ignota (Walker, 1853), I. sexpetala Tiunova et al., 2004, I. formosana (Ulmer, 1912) and possible I. japonica (Ulmer, 1920), they show the rich diversity of the genus Isonychia in China.

﻿Five new species of the Pholcus phungiformes species group (Araneae, Pholcidae) from South Korea
Five new spider species of the genus Pholcus Walckenaer, 1805, P. duryun sp. nov., P. hwaam sp. nov., P. mohang sp. nov., P. worak sp. nov., and P. yangpyeong sp. nov., belonging to the P. phungiformes group in the family Pholcidae C. L. Koch, 1850, are newly described from South Korea. These new species were collected from mixed forests in mountainous, hilly, and coastal terrains. This study provides the diagnoses, detailed descriptions, distribution maps, and taxonomic photographs of these new species.

﻿A study of the mealybug genus Planococcus Ferris, 1950 from China, with description of a new species (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae)
A study of the mealybug genus Planococcus Ferris, 1950 (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) known from China is presented and 12 species are recognised. Of these, Planococcus camelliae Zhang, sp. nov. is described as new to science based on the morphology of the adult female, and P. bambusifolii (Takahashi, 1951) is recorded from China for the first time. Molecular analyses based on the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of the new species and a key to species of the genus Planococcus in China are also given.
["Camellia oleifera"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

﻿Capitojoppa, a new genus of Ichneumoninae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from Peruvian Amazonia
A new monotypic genus of ichneumonine parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ichneumoninae) is described from Peru; Capitojoppa gen. nov. is described to accommodate Capitojoppa amazonica sp. nov. The new genus is morphologically very distinctive and can be easily separated from all known ichneumonine genera. By describing Capitojoppa from the lowland rain forests of Peru, we aim to draw attention to the considerable diversity and morphological variation of the Amazonian ichneumonine fauna.
["Allpahuayo-Mishana"]

﻿A new species of Zoraptera, Zorotypus komatsui sp. nov. from Cameroon and a redescription of Zorotypus vinsoni Paulian, 1951 (Polyneoptera, Zoraptera)
A new species of the order Zoraptera, Zorotypus komatsui Matsumura, Maruyama, Ntonifor & Beutel, sp. nov., is described from Cameroon. The female and male morphology of another species, Z. vinsoni, is re-described, and its new distribution in Madagascar is recorded. A particular focus is on the male postabdominal morphology. This is apparently a crucial body region in the very small order with an extreme variation of the genital apparatus but otherwise a very uniform morphology. The male of the newly described species shares rudimentary male genitalia and well-developed postabdominal projections with the distantly related Spermozoros impolitus, apparently a result of parallel evolution. Whether males of Z. komatsui also perform external sperm transfer like S. impolitus remains to be shown. The collecting of the material used for this study suggests that the present knowledge of zorapteran species diversity of the Afrotropical region is very fragmentary.
["Afrotropical region"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Increasing knowledge of Cymbiapophysa Gabriel & Sherwood, 2020 (Araneae, Theraphosidae): general distribution, key to species, and three new species from Ecuador
Three new species of Cymbiapophysa Gabriel & Sherwood, 2020 are described from south, central, and north-western Ecuador, showing the wide range of distribution that this genus has in Ecuador and its biogeographical provinces. These three new species are easily differentiated from other congeners based on keel morphology of the male palpal bulb. Supplementary information about the locality of C. magna Sherwood, Gabriel, Brescovit & Lucas, 2021 is provided, alongside additional data on morphology and some commentaries about the general distribution and biogeography of Cymbiapophysa. Additionally, a taxonomic key for males of Cymbiapophysa species is presented, based on the palpal bulb morphology.

﻿A new species of the genus Leptobrachella Smith 1925 (Amphibia, Anura, Megophryidae) from Guangxi, China
A new species of Leptobrachella, L. wumingensis sp. nov., was described from the Damingshan National Nature Reserve, Wuming District, Nanning City, Guangxi, China based on morphological, molecular and bioacoustic data. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S mtDNA fragments revealed that the new species is closely related to L. damingshanensis. Uncorrected p-distances between the new species and all homologous DNA sequences available for the 16S gene of Leptobrachella are greater than 7.1%. Morphologically, L. wumingensis sp. nov. differs from its congeners in several ways, including a medium body size (SVL 26.0–26.7 mm in males, 30.6–34.8 mm in females), lack of toe webbing and lateral fringes, shagreened and granular dorsal surface, pale brown dorsum with darker brown markings, iris bicolored, with the upper half copper and fading to silver in the lower half, and the presence of small irregular black spots and tangerine tubercles on the flanks. Furthermore, we found the new species to have two types of advertisement calls and relatively high dominant frequencies, making it distinct from its congeners.

Revision of the Palaearctic species of the genus Plateumaris C. G. Thomson, 1859 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Donaciinae)
Ten of the 27 species of Plateumaris Thomson (Chrysomelidae: Donaciinae) occur in the Palaearctic. Due to the intraspecific variation and the large distributions of some species, descriptions exist for at least 80 taxa plus five nomina nuda. The status of each valid species is clarified and the remaining 70 names are allocated as synonyms. New synonymies are P. tenuicornis Balthasar, considered a synonym of P. consimilis (Schrank), P. sulcifrons Weise as a synonym of P. rustica (Kunze), and P. caucasica Zaitzev as a synonym of P. sericea (Linnaeus). Two controversial synonyms are confirmed: P. discolor (Panzer) and P. sericea sibirica (Solsky) are both synonyms of P. sericea. Finally, P. obsoleta Jacobson is a synonym but at present it is not possible to decide whether it belongs to P. shirahatai Kimoto or to P. sericea. Forty-one new country records are added, compared with the Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera published in 2010; 28 records are based on recently published records and 13 are first records for a specific country.

Description of three new species of Benedictus (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini) from China, with comments on their biology and modified ethanol traps for collecting flea beetles
The diversity and biology of the moss and leaf litter-inhabiting flea beetles are still poorly known. In this study, three new species of Benedictus are described from China: Benedictus fuanensis Ruan & Konstantinov, sp. nov., Benedictus quadrimaculatus Ruan & Konstantinov, sp. nov., and Benedictus wangi Ruan & Konstantinov, sp. nov. Comments on their biology are given. Benedictus quadrimaculatus has a highly unusual morphological feature not reported before in flea beetles: black spots on the abdominal tergites that are visible through the elytra. Traditional and modified ethanol traps were tested and proven useful for collecting leaf litter- and moss-inhabiting flea beetles. Based on our tests, eight traps could collect one specimen each day in the testing sites in Fujian Province; three traps could collect one specimen each day in the testing sites in Guangdong Province.

﻿Architecture, construction, retention, and repair of faecal shields in three tribes of tortoise beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae: Cassidini, Mesomphaliini, Spilophorini)
Animal constructions are the outcomes of complex evolutionary, behavioural, and ecological forces. A brief review of diverse animal builders, the materials used, and the functions they provide their builders is provided to develop approaches to studying faecal-based constructions and faecal-carrying in leaf beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Field studies, rearing, dissections, photography, and films document shields constructed by larvae in two species in two tribes of the subfamily Cassidinae, Calyptocephala attenuata (Spaeth, 1919) (Spilophorini), and Cassida sphaerula Boheman, 1853 (Cassidini). Natural history notes on an undetermined Cassidini species and Stolas cucullata (Boheman, 1862) (Tribe Mesomphaliini) outline the life cycle of tortoise beetles and explain terms. Commonly, the cassidine shield comprises exuviae onto which faeces are daubed, producing a pyramidal-shaped shield that can cover most of the body (up to the pronotum). In Cal. attenuata the larval shield comprises only exuviae, while in Cass. sphaerula, instar 1 initiates the shield by extending its telescopic anus to apply its own faeces onto its paired caudal processes; at each moult the exuvia is pushed to the caudal process base but remains attached, then more faeces are applied over it. The larva’s telescopic anus is the only tool used to build and repair the shield, not mouthparts or legs, and it also applies chemicals to the shield. Pupae in Cal. attenuata retain part of the exuviae-only shield of instar VI, while pupae in Cass. sphaerula retain either the entire 5th instar larval shield (faeces + all exuviae) or only the 5th larval exuvia. The caudal processes are crucial to shield construction, shield retention on the body, and as materials of the central scaffold of the structure. They also move the shield, though the muscular mechanism is not known. Altogether the faecal + exuviae shields may represent a unique morpho-behavioural synapomorphy for the crown-clade Cassidinae (10 tribes, ~ 2669 species) and may have been a key innovation in subsequent radiation. Defensive shields and domiciles may help explain the uneven radiation of chrysomelid subfamilial and tribal clades.
["Behaviour"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿Rediscovery of a lost semi-aquatic Leaf Beetle in the Hula Valley, Israel (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Donaciinae)
Between 1951–1958, most of the Hula Lake and its surrounding swamps in the Upper Jordan River (Rift) Valley of Israel were drained with the supposed purposes to eliminate malaria and to reclaim land for agriculture; both reasons later proved to be unnecessary decisions. With the paucity of biological knowledge of the Hula region, especially its aquatic invertebrates, accurate assessment of the environmental damage from this drainage is still being realized. Based on natural history museum collection specimen records, the pre-drainage presence of some aquatic insect species has been verified. Among these was Donacia bicolora, a member of a semi-aquatic subfamily (Donaciinae) of Leaf Beetles (Chrysomelidae) and whose Israeli populations were thought to have gone extinct because of the drainage of the Hula and other locations. Recently this species was rediscovered in two populations. However, the molecular identification of two of these recently collected specimens from one population revealed that the identity of this species is actually Donacia simplex. In this work, the re-discovery of this species is detailed, and its conservation importance discussed.
["conservation"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Demarchus hsui (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini), a new species from Taiwan, with notes on immatures and biology
A new species of the little-known genus Demarchus Jacoby was discovered at Pilu, East Taiwan, and is here described as Demarchus hsui sp. nov. The larvae and adults utilise showy mistletoes as food plants. Their remarkable biology is described in detail, including egg deposition and leaf mining behaviour. Their biology is compared with that of other members of the genus.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿Review of the Lycocerus pallidulus group (Coleoptera, Cantharidae), with descriptions of six new species from China
The Lycocerus pallidulus subgroup, originally placed in the L. maculicollis group, is suggested as an independent species group herein and its diagnosis is redefined. Ten previously known species of Lycocerus are attributed to this group, including L. centrochinensis (Švihla, 2004), L. genaemaculatus (Wittmer, 1951), L. hubeiensis (Švihla, 2004), L. kubani (Švihla, 2004), L. zdeneki (Švihla, 2004), L. bilineatus (Wittmer, 1995), L. jelineki (Švihla, 2004), L. putzi Švihla, 2011, L. pictipennis (Wittmer, 1995), and L. curvatus (Wittmer, 1995). Additionally, six new species of this group are described from China, including L. laterophysus sp. nov., L. flavipennis sp. nov., L. putzimimus sp. nov., L. maoershanensis sp. nov., L. chongqingensis sp. nov., and L. bispermathecus sp. nov. These species are illustrated with photographs of habitus, aedeagi, abdominal sternites VIII, and reproductive systems of female. In addition, an identification key and a distribution map of the L. pallidulus group are provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿A new species of the genus Alainites Waltz & McCafferty, 1994 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from the north of Morocco
A new species of Alainites is described from northern of Morocco Alainites albai sp. nov. It can be separated from the other west Palearctic species by the gill number, the spination of the distal margin of tergites, the leg setation, and the paraproct shape and spination. This species is widespread in the study area but never abundant. It prefers small to medium streams with slow flow, and does not seem to be very sensitive to pollution and water logging activities.

﻿Four new terrestrial earthworm species from the northeast Thailand (Oligochaeta, Megascolecidae)
Earthworm specimens collected from Sakon Nakhon and Nakhon Phanom, northeast Thailand, were found to contain four new species in the family Megascolecidae, with one species in the genus Metaphire Sims & Easton, 1972, and the other three in the genus Amynthas Kinberg, 1867. These are herein named Metaphire songkhramensis Chanabun & Panha, sp. nov. in the sexthecal houlleti species group, and Amynthas sakonnakhonensis Chanabun & Panha, sp. nov., A. auriculus Chanabun & Panha, sp. nov., and A. bantanensis Chanabun & Panha, sp. nov. in the sexthecal aelianus species group. Metaphire songkhramensis Chanabun & Panha, sp. nov. occurs in dark clay soil of the oxbow lake of the river, Amynthas sakonnakhonensis Chanabun & Panha, sp. nov. occurs in wetland area, A. auriculus Chanabun & Panha, sp. nov. occurs in dark sandy loam habitats of mixed deciduous forest while the following species, A. bantanensis Chanabun & Panha, sp. nov. occurs in sandy loam habitats of paddy fields. Descriptions of the new species, including illustrations of the external and internal morphological characteristics, are provided.
["Amynthas"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Mitogenomes of the two historical species Seira ferrarii Parona, 1888 and Seira pallidipes Reuter, 1895 (Collembola, Entomobryidae, Seirinae) with their phylogenetic placement within Seirinae
The present paper reports the first occurrence of Seira ferrarii Parona, 1888 from Hungary. On this occasion, molecular analyses were performed on both S. ferrarii and another historical species of the genus, S. pallidipes Reuter, 1895, originally described from Hungary. Using low-coverage whole-genome sequencing, the complete mitogenomes were assembled and annotated using MitoZ. To test the phylogenetic placement of both species, we performed maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses using a matrix containing 14 Seirinae species and two outgroups. Both resultant trees showed that the European populations of the sampled Seira spp. likely derive from ancestral branches of Seirinae, compared to the Asian and American populations. Our results put in question the monophyly of the genus Seira, as already observed in previous studies.
["Entomobryoidea"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿Peruvian nudibranchs (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Heterobranchia): an updated literature review-based list of species
Nudibranchs, as a group, have received limited attention in terms of scientific study along the coastline of Peru. Here, an updated and comprehensive list of nudibranch species found in the Peruvian sea is presented, compiled through an extensive review of relevant literature. This compilation encompasses a total of 31 species, classified into two suborders, 10 superfamilies, 20 families, and 28 genera. With respect to the biogeographic provinces along the Peruvian coast, 23 species inhabit the Warm Temperate Southeastern Pacific province, 18 species occur in the Tropical Eastern Pacific province, and 10 species are found in both provinces, crossing the transitional zone between them. In terms of distribution patterns, two species exhibit a cosmopolitan distribution (Glaucus atlanticus and Fiona pinnata), while two species display a circumtropical distribution (Cephalopyge trematoides and Phylliroe bucephala). One species exhibits a bipolar distribution in the Eastern Pacific and possesses an amphi-South American distribution (Rostanga pulchra). Additionally, six species exhibit an amphi-South American distribution (Rostanga pulchra, Diaulula punctuolata, Doto uva, Tyrinna evelinae, Tyrinna delicata, and Doris fontainii), and two species are endemic to Peru (Corambe mancorensis and Felimare sechurana). This study provides comprehensive information on biogeographical aspects, geographical distributions, and taxonomic updates within the nudibranch species documented in Peru. Furthermore, we discuss the status of species listed in previous literature that have not been confirmed by collections, referring to them as potentially occurring species.
["biogeography"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

﻿New subgenera and a new species of the genus Raphignathus Dugès (Prostigmata, Raphignathidae), with taxonomic notes on the genus Neoraphignathus Smiley & Moser
Four new subgenera in the genus Raphignathus Dugès are hereby proposed: Raphignathus (Raphignathus), subgen. nov., Raphignathus (Monoraphignathus), subgen. nov., Raphignathus (Diraphignathus), subgen. nov., and Raphignathus (Triraphignathus), subgen. nov. These subgenera are diagnosed by the number of setae on the interscutal membrane of females. A new species, R. (D.) neohecmatanaensis sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on females collected from Ziziphus spina-christi Mill. (Rhamnaceae). The taxonomic status of the monotypic genus Neoraphignathus Smiley & Moser and three species (R. evidus, R. hsiufui, and R. johnstoni) are discussed. A key to world species of the family Raphignathidae is given.
["Acari"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿Revisiting the type species of the genus Homidia (Collembola, Entomobryidae)
Homidia cingula Börner, 1906, the type species of the genus Homidia Börner, 1906, is widespread from India to Southeast Asia, but its detailed morphological characteristics have not yet been described. We examined the morphology of specimens of H. cingula from Indonesia and southwestern China and confirmed their conspecific status by comparing their DNA barcoding sequences. We also compared the morphology of H. cingula with other two closely related species, confirming the valid species status of H. subcingula Denis, 1948. Our study provides new taxonomic and molecular data for the genus Homidia.
["DNA barcode"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Marine and environmental studies"]

﻿Unravelling the diversity of the genus Afronurus Lestage, 1924 (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) in Thailand
The genus Afronurus in Thailand is investigated using an integrative approach (morphology based, ootaxonomy and molecular data) for species delimitation. A total of four species of Afronurus was identified; A. cervina (Braasch & Soldán, 1984), A. gilliesiana (Braasch, 1990), A. rainulfiana (Braasch, 1990), and A. rubromaculata (You et al., 1981). The subimago of A. gilliesiana is described for the first time based on reared specimens. The egg structure of all four species is also described for the first time. Morphological and molecular data strongly support their species delimitation. The egg chorionic structure of the genus Afronurus, together with other morphological characters, is useful for species identification. A key to mature nymphs of the known species is provided.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Miradessus gen. nov. from South America described for two species previously in Amarodytes Régimbart, 1900 and two new species (Arthropoda, Insecta, Coleoptera, Adephaga, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Bidessini)
Miradessus gen. nov. is described for two previously described species, Amarodytes pulchellus Guignot, 1955 from Colombia, with new records from Venezuela, and A. plaumanni Gschwendtner, 1935, from Brazil, and two previously unknown species, Miradessus beni sp. nov., from Bolivia and Peru, and Miradessus rikae sp. nov. from Ecuador. The genus is characterized by 1) occipital line absent; 2) basal pronotal striae present; 3) basal elytral stria absent; 4) sutural elytral stria absent; 5) transverse carina on elytral epipleuron at humeral angle absent; 6) distinct marginal bead on anterior clypeal margin absent; and 7) male median lobe deeply multilobed with a dorsal portion separate from a unilobed or bilobed ventral portion.
["Diving beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Phylogenetic placement of eight poorly known spiders of Microdipoena (Araneae, Mysmenidae), with descriptions of five new species
Ten species of the spider genus Microdipoena Banks, 1895 are reported from China, Laos, Indonesia, Georgia, and Seychelles. DNA sequences of the eight species are obtained to confirm their correct identification. The molecular phylogenetic analysis based on five gene fragments (16S, 18S, 28S, COI, and H3) were used to test the relationships and taxonomic placements of eight Microdipoena species, of which five species are documented as new to science: i.e., M. huisun sp. nov. (♀, China), M. lisu sp. nov. (♀, China), M. shenyang sp. nov. (♂♀, China), M. thatitou sp. nov. (♀, Laos), and M. zhulin sp. nov. (♂♀, China). Five known species are redescribed: M. elsae Saaristo, 1978 (♂♀, Seychelles), M. gongi (Yin, Peng & Bao, 2004) (♂♀, China), M. menglunensis (Lin & Li, 2008) (♂♀, China), M. jobi (Kraus, 1967) (♂♀, Georgia), and M. yinae (Lin & Li, 2013) (♂♀, China). All but M. menglunensis are diagnosed and illustrated. The family Mysmenidae is also the first recorded from Laos and Georgia.

﻿Notes on two species of Massuria Thorell, 1887 (Arachnida, Araneae, Thomisidae) from China with description of a new species
Two species assigned to Massuria Thorell, 1887 are reviewed. The female of Massuria bandian Tang & Li, 2010 is described for the first time from Jianfengling National Natural Reserve, Hainan Province, China. The species Diaea simplex Xu, Han & Li, 2008 is described as a synonym of Massuria bellula Xu, Han & Li, 2008 based on female and male specimens from Guangdong Province, China. Massuria min sp. nov. described as a new species (female, Fujian Province, China). Detailed illustrations and a distribution map are provided for these three species of Massuria.
["Crab spiders"]

﻿Three new ant-eating spiders of the family Zodariidae Thorell, 1881 (Araneae, Zodariidae) from Xishuangbanna, China
Three new zodariid spiders from the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunnan, China are described. A new species of the genus Euryeidon Dankittipakul & Jocqué, 2004, E. dian sp. nov. (♂♀), and two new species of the genus Mallinella Strand, 1906, M. banna sp. nov. (♂) and M. mengla sp. nov. (♂), are described. Euryeidon is reported for the first time in China.

﻿Protogygia pryorensis Crabo & Kirst (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Noctuini), a new moth species from Montana, United States of America
Protogygia pryorensis sp. nov. (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Noctuini) is described from a single arid active sands habitat in the south foothills of the Pryor Mountains in south-central Montana, USA. It flies during early May. The adult male and its genitalia are illustrated and are compared to similar Protogygia McDunnough species. The female is unknown. Protogygia species groups are discussed and P. pryorensis is assigned to the album-group. The Pryor Mountains foothill habitat of P. pryorensis is described and illustrated.
["Agrotina"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

﻿Mapping the distribution of armored harvestmen (Opiliones, Laniatores) in Colombia: updated list of species, taxonomic contributions, and insight of diversity in protected areas
Colombia is a biodiverse country with 1,486 protected areas covering almost 50 million hectares, yet little is known about the biodiversity they harbor, particularly in terms of harvestmen (Arachnida: Opiliones). This study provides a comprehensive updated summary of the armored harvestmen (Laniatores) species found in Colombia with a list of 173 nominal species, focusing on the Laniatores fauna found in protected areas and its diversity is detailed and analyzed. Maps with all records associated with ecoregions and protected areas in Colombia are presented. Additionally, three new Laniatores species are described here: Phalangodus andresi sp. nov. from the department of Cundinamarca, and Ventrifurca phallaina sp. nov. and Ampycella fortunata sp. nov. from the department of Valle del Cauca; and a new family assignment is proposed for Paraphalangodus Roewer, 1915, placing it in the family Nomoclastidae. Information available on Laniatores in the National System of Protected Areas is still scarce and promoting strategies to facilitate the regulatory procedures for collecting specimens in these areas and increasing investment in basic science projects, are suggested to improve the understanding and study of the Laniatores fauna and other invertebrates in Colombia. Finally, a chronicle and timeline set of figures of species of Laniatores from Colombia, described by various authors during three periods, is given.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿New species of the Spiny Mouse genus Neacomys (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae) from northwestern Ecuador
Neacomys is a genus of small spiny or bristly sigmodontine rodents that are common components of mammalian faunas in multiple biomes on Central and South America. Recent studies on this group have demonstrated that there is cryptic diversity yet to be discovered within currently recognized species that have not received comprehensive revisions, as well as in areas that have been overlooked. Here we ratify this assertion by describing a new species previously misidentified as the Narrow-footed Spiny Mouse (Neacomys tenuipes) from the Chocó biogeographic region in northwestern Ecuador, Neacomys marci Brito & Tinoco, sp. nov. Distinctiveness of this entity is supported by the combination of the following morphological characters: small size (head-body length 65–85 mm); long tail (69–126% longer than head-body length); pale buff-colored but gray-based belly fur; white throat; hypothenar pad usually absent; long nasals; and a condylar process higher than the coronoid process. Likewise genetic distance analyses and phylogenetic reconstructions based on cytochrome-b (Cytb) sequence data indicate a clear divergence from typical populations of N. tenuipes, and a sister relationship between them. The results presented here increase the diversity of Neacomys to 24 species, placing it among the most diverse genera within the sigmodontine rodents.
["Choc\u00f3 biogeographic"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Taxonomic study on the subgenus Orientostichus, the Pterostichus pulcher species group (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Pterostichus)
The Pterostichus pulcher species group of the subgenus Orientostichus Sciaky & Allegro is defined for P. pulcher Sciaky & Allegro and six new allied species. All seven species of this group are revised on morphological characters. Six new species are described from south of Sichuan province, China: P. pemphis sp. nov. (type locality: Shuihaizi, Puge county, 27.33°N, 102.45°E), P. orbicollis sp. nov. (Longzhoushan, Huili county, 26.79°N, 102.20°E), P. leo sp. nov. (Shizishan, Jinyang county, 27.88°N, 103.23°E), P. liyuani sp. nov. (Luojishan, Puge county, 27.58°N, 102.39°E), P. condylus sp. nov. (Yele, Mianning county, 28.96°N, 102.16°E), P. jialini sp. nov. (Jiamashi, Huidong county, 26.81°N, 102.68°E). Tritrichis chinensis Jedlička, syn. nov., a species previously misplaced in the subgenus Orientostichus, is excluded from the genus Pterostichus and confirmed to be a junior synonym of Synuchus nitidus reticulatus Lindroth, 1956.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

﻿A revision of the parasitoid wasp genus Alphomelon Mason with the description of 30 new species (Hymenoptera, Braconidae)
The parasitoid wasp genus Alphomelon Mason, 1981 is revised, based on a combination of basic morphology (dichotomous key and brief diagnostic descriptions), DNA barcoding, biology (host data and wasp cocoons), and distribution data. A total of 49 species is considered; the genus is almost entirely Neotropical (48 species recorded from that region), but three species reach the Nearctic, with one of them extending as far north as 45° N in Canada. Alphomelon parasitizes exclusively Hesperiinae caterpillars (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae), mostly feeding on monocots in the families Arecaceae, Bromeliaceae, Cannaceae, Commelinaceae, Heliconiaceae, and Poaceae. Most wasp species parasitize either on one or very few (2–4) host species, usually within one or two hesperiine genera; but some species can parasitize several hosts from up to nine different hesperiine genera. Among species with available data for their cocoons, roughly half weave solitary cocoons (16) and half are gregarious (17); cocoons tend to be surrounded by a rather distinctive, coarse silk (especially in solitary species, but also distinguishable in some gregarious species). Neither morphology nor DNA barcoding alone was sufficient on its own to delimit all species properly; by integrating all available evidence (even if incomplete, as available data for every species is different) a foundation is provided for future studies incorporating more specimens, especially from South America. The following 30 new species are described: cruzi, itatiaiensis, and palomae, authored by Shimbori & Fernandez-Triana; and adrianguadamuzi, amazonas, andydeansi, calixtomoragai, carolinacanoae, christerhanssoni, diniamartinezae, duvalierbricenoi, eldaarayae, eliethcantillanoae, gloriasihezarae, guillermopereirai, hazelcambroneroae, josecortesi, keineraragoni, luciarosae, manuelriosi, mikesharkeyi, osvaldoespinozai, paramelanoscelis, paranigriceps, petronariosae, ricardocaleroi, rigoi, rostermoragai, sergioriosi, and yanayacu, authored by Fernandez-Triana & Shimbori.
["Biology"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿Three new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Yunnan Province, China
Three new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007, T. cangshan Tong, Yang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂), T. wumanshan Tong, Yang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂), and T. xiaoheishan Tong, Yang & Zhang, sp. nov. (♂♀) are described from Yunnan, China. Descriptions, diagnoses, and photographs are provided.

﻿Rediscovery of Histiotus alienus Thomas, 1916 a century after its description (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae): distribution extension and redescription
Histiotus is a Neotropical genus of bat that currently includes 11 species. The systematics of Histiotus has been the focus of several studies over the last decades. However, no broad systematic revision has been made, and taxonomic issues such as synonymies, use of subspecies, and specimens that do not fit the description of valid species still persist, as pointed out by several authors. Histiotus alienus was described in 1916 and is known only by the holotype. Here we present a second record of H. alienus and an amended diagnosis of this species. We use qualitative, quantitative, and morphometric analyses based on data from 184 specimens of Histiotus and almost all valid species. Our amended diagnosis establishes the taxonomic limits of H. alienus, as well as a comprehensive comparison with congeners. We also explore new diagnostic characters for H. alienus and provide a few notes on the natural history of this species. Our results highlight skull similarities among Histiotus species and reinforce the usefulness of external morphology for their correct identification. Despite our new insights into the taxonomy of the genus, several taxonomic issues remain, and a comprehensive revision of the genus is needed.
["Bats"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿Integrative taxonomic revision of the genera Nesticella and Howaia in Japan with the description of five new species (Araneae, Nesticidae, Nesticellini)
The Japanese species of the genera Nesticella Lehtinen & Saaristo, 1980 and Howaia Lehtinen & Saaristo, 1980 (Araneae, Nesticidae, Nesticellini) are revised using an integrative taxonomic approach. Their morphology, phylogenetic position within the genera, assignment to species groups, and distribution in mainland Japan and the Ryukyu islands are discussed herein. A phylogenetic and species delimitation analysis was conducted to confirm the boundaries between the putative species that were initially discriminated based on external and genital morphology. As a result of the present study, six species of Nesticella and three species of Howaia are proposed for the fauna of Japan based on the combined results of morphology and molecular analyses. Male and female of the previously known species H. mogera (Yaginuma, 1972), N. brevipes (Yaginuma, 1970), and N. okinawaensis (Yaginuma, 1979) are redescribed and illustrated using type specimens or specimens collected at the type locality. Nesticella terrestris (Yaginuma, 1970) is resurrected as a valid species and distinguished from the closely related N. brevipes based on morphological and molecular evidence. The male of N. terrestris is described for the first time. We herein describe three new species of Nesticella and two new species of Howaia from different islands in the Ryukyu Archipelago, southwest Japan: N. insulana sp. nov. (♂, ♀) from Yonaguni-jima Island, N. occulta sp. nov. (♀) from Ishigaki-jima Island, N. silvicola sp. nov. (♂, ♀) from Yakushima Island, H. alba sp. nov. (♂, ♀) from Miyako-jima Island and H. subterranea sp. nov. (♀) from Okinoerabu-jima Island. Nesticella occulta sp. nov., H. alba sp. nov. and H. subterranea sp. nov. dwell exclusively in caves and show extensive morphological adaptation to subterranean life.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Two new species of Ismarus Haliday (Hymenoptera, Ismaridae) from Yunnan, China
The genus Ismarus Haliday are rarely collected parasitoids in the small family Ismaridae. In this study, two new species are described from China’s Yunnan Province: Ismarus robustus Chen & Yan, sp. nov. and Ismarus unisulcus Chen & Yan, sp. nov. An updated key to the Chinese species of the genus is provided.
["Diaprioidea"]

﻿Three new species of the genus Zaitzevia Champion, 1923 (Coleoptera, Elmidae) from China
Three new riffle beetles of the genus Zaitzevia Champion, 1923 are described from China, namely Zaitzevia sichuanensis sp. nov. and Zaitzevia fengtongzhaiensis sp. nov. from Sichuan Province, and Zaitzevia yingzuijieensis sp. nov. from Hunan Province. Habitus and diagnostic features of the new species are illustrated. A checklist of all known Chinese Zaitzevia species is given, and a key and distributional map of Zaitzevia species from the Chinese mainland are provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿A new species of Lumbrineriopsis (Annelida, Eunicida, Lumbrineridae) from southeastern Brazil
Lumbrineriopsis dulcis sp. nov. is morphologically described from the continental shelf and slope of Espírito Santo and the Campos Basin of Rio de Janeiro state, southeastern Brazil, at depths between 14 and 400 m. Lumbrineriopsis mucronata is the only species of the genus recorded until now in Brazil. The new species differs from other congeneric species in its jaw-apparatus morphology with unfused mandibles and a fixed number of simple limbate chaetae and simple, bidentate, hooded hooks in each parapodium. This paper aims to fill the gap in knowledge on the family Lumbrineridae, which has not been studied in Brazil for the last 25 years and provides the first record of the genus from Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro states. This record is significant given the damage to the marine ecosystem of the Espírito Santo region due to the 2015 rupture of the Samarco mining company dam, the largest environmental disaster in Brazil’s history. In addition, this region has important environmental conservation units such as Costa das Algas Environmental Protection Area, Santa Cruz Wildlife Refuge, and Comboios Biological Reserve. All these preserved areas are of paramount importance for the protection of marine biological diversity.
["Lumbrineriopsis dulcis sp. nov."]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and environmental studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿On nine ground spiders from Xishuangbanna, China (Araneae, Gnaphosidae), including two new genera and seven new species
Species of the family Gnaphosidae Banks, 1892 were surveyed in Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, and nine species were found including two new genera and seven new species. The new monotypic genera are Meizhelan gen. nov., with the type species Meizhelan muhong sp. nov. (♂♀) and Yuqilin gen. nov., with the type species Y. lujunyi sp. nov. (♂♀). Five additional new species are described: Allomicythus suochao sp. nov. (♂♀); Hongkongia liutang sp. nov. (♂♀); Sernokorba ruanxiaoer sp. nov. (♂♀), Synaphosus leiheng sp. nov. (♂♀) and Sy. lijun sp. nov. (♂♀). The unknown male of A. kamurai Ono, 2009 and unknown female of H. wuae Song & Zhu, 1998 are described for the first time.

﻿Four new species of Phytocoris Fallén (Hemiptera, Miridae) from the Davis Mountains in Texas and further documentation of known species of Jeff Davis County
A recent survey of the entomofauna of the Davis Mountains in the state of Texas has revealed four new species in the genus Phytocoris Fallén (Miridae, Mirinae, Mirini): Phytocoris mcivor sp. nov. and Phytocoris schmitzi sp. nov. found on Quercus grisea Liebmann, and Phytocoris marqua sp. nov. and Phytocoris rileyi sp. nov. found attracted to lights. Descriptions, habitus, and genitalic images for the new species are included herein. Further, habitus and genitalic photographs of known Phytocoris species from the county are included to aid in identification.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿The Trichoptera of Panama XXII. Sixteen new microcaddisfly species (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae)
Sixteen new species of microcaddisflies (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) from Panama are herein described and illustrated. The majority of these were collected during surveys of Panama’s national parks and protected areas during 2017 and 2018, employing both UV and Malaise traps. The new species include: Alisotrichia eisbergae sp. nov., Angrisanoia bokota sp. nov., Bredinia paraespinosa sp. nov., Cerasmatrichia garfioza sp. nov., Cerasmatrichia veraguasensis sp. nov., Costatrichia calovebora sp. nov., Metrichia calovebora sp. nov., Metrichia cascada sp. nov., Metrichia chiriquiensis sp. nov., Metrichia escobilla sp. nov., Metrichia leahae sp. nov., Metrichia tatianae sp. nov., Ochrotrichia conejoreja sp. nov., Ochrotrichia paraflagellata sp. nov., Oxyethira pehrssonae sp. nov., and Zumatrichia culebra sp. nov. In total, 506 Trichoptera species are now recorded for the Republic of Panama, distributed among 15 families and 56 genera.
["Biological diversity"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿The larval, pupal and mitogenomic characteristics of Agrilus adelphinus Kerremans, 1895 (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) from China
In this study, the larva and pupa of Agrilus adelphinus are described and illustrated. DNA barcoding (COI gene) was used to associate the larval and pupal stages with adults based on the maximum-likelihood method. In the resulting phylogenetic tree, species from the same species-group were found to be clustered on a branch with high support value. To better understand A. adelphinus, the complete mitochondrial genome of this species was also sequenced and annotated. Comparing this genome to the known mitogenomes of Agrilus species, the newly sequenced genome is shorter, with 15,732 bp. However, its whole mitogenome composition and gene orientation were consistent with that of most species of Buprestidae. In the mitogenome of A. adelphinus, the ATGATAG sequence was observed between ATP8 and ATP6, which is ATGATAA in other insect mitogenomes. Leu2, Phe, Ile, Gly, and Ser2 were the five most frequently encoded amino acids. The results further prove that DNA barcoding can remove the limitation of traditional taxonomy which cannot identify to species all developmental stages. This study also provides valuable molecular and morphological data for species identification and phylogenetic analyses of the genus Agrilus.
["Larva"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

﻿Description of a new Promastobranchus species (Annelida, Capitellidae) from Chinese coasts, with molecular evidence for intraspecific variation in the number of thoracic chaetigers
Promastobranchus Gallardo, 1968 is a small genus in the polychaete family Capitellidae, and the available records are largely reported from the Indo-West Pacific region. Although Gallardo (1968) and Green (2002) noted that Promastobranchus species had intraspecific variation in the number of thoracic chaetigers when they described the two previously known species, this variation has not been corroborated using molecular evidence. In this study, a new Promastobranchus species, Promastobranchus variabilis sp. nov., is described based on 29 specimens collected from the Beibu Gulf, South China Sea. The new species is mainly characterized by having a tessellated epithelium in the anterior thorax, nine teeth in three rows above the main fang in the abdominal hooks, four pairs of genital pores located on the intersegmental grooves between chaetigers 9 and 13, and its unique methyl green staining pattern. Comparisons of multiple gene markers (16S, 18S, 28S, and H3) revealed no genetic divergence (K2P < 0.003) among these type specimens with 9–13 thoracic chaetigers. In other words, the new species exhibited morphological variability in the number of thoracic chaetigers during ontogeny, and this character was unsuitable to differentiate Promastobranchus species as the ranges overlap among Promastobranchus species. This is the third Promastobranchus species known in the world, and it is now recorded along the Fujian coast.
["Mitochondrial markers"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

﻿Podarkeopsis chinensis sp. nov. (Annelida, Hesionidae) from southeastern China
Podarkeopsis chinensis sp. nov. (Annelida, Hesionidae) is described based on specimens collected from the coast of southeast China. It is the first Podarkeopsis species described from the Indo-Pacific, although there are already nine valid Podarkeopsis species known from other parts of the world. This new species can be distinguished from the other Podarkeopsis species in having a palpostyle as long as the palpophore and double aciculae in both notopodia and neuropodia, and in bearing bifid furcate chaetae which have a smooth base on the shorter tine. A phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated sequences of five gene fragments (COI, 16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, and histone H3) from 18 specimens of P. chinensis sp. nov. showed that they formed a monophyletic clade that is sister to P. levifuscina. K2P genetic distances indicated that the four gene fragments (COI, 16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, and 28S rRNA) of P. chinensis sp. nov. diverged from the corresponding sequences of the closest related species of Podarkeopsis in GenBank and BOLD Systems by 21.1–27.5%, 20.3–23.1%, 0.1–0.2%, and 2.1–3.2%. An identification key is provided for species in the genus Podarkeopsis.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

﻿A review of the spider genus Sinoalaria (Araneae, Theridiosomatidae), with the descriptions of four new species and two new combinations
The spider genus Sinoalaria Zhao & Li, 2014 is redefined and reviewed. A total of ten species are studied, including four new species: S. chi Yu & Lin, sp. nov. (♂♀), S. shenhei Yu & Lin, sp. nov. (♀), S. shuidi Yu & Lin, sp. nov. (♀), S. xiaotu Yu & Lin, sp. nov. (♂♀). Two new combinations are proposed: Sinoalaria nitida (Zhao & Li, 2012), comb. nov. and S. prolata (Zhao & Li, 2012), comb. nov., both transferred from Karstia Chen, 2010. The material of six known species were re-examined and photographed, including the type species, S. chengguanensis (Zhao & Li, 2012). A key is provided for all species of the genus, as well as diagnoses, illustrations, and a distribution map.
["Araneoidea"]

﻿A new species and a new provincial record of the genus Acidota Stephens from China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Omaliinae)
New taxonomic and faunistic data for two species of the genus Acidota Stephens, 1829 from China are provided. A new species from Xizang (Linzhi) is described and illustrated: A. dawai Peng & Chen, sp. nov. Additional data (including photographs of the habitus and the type labels) on the type specimens of taxa described from Japan (A. crenata japonica Watanabe, 1990) and Taiwan (A. montana Smetana, 1993 and A. nivicola Smetana, 1993) are given. A key to Chinese species of Acidota is given. Acidota crenata (Fabricius, 1792) is recorded from Heilongjiang for the first time.
["new provincial record"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Life history and biogeography of the enigmatic mantid Nilomantis floweri (Mantodea, Nanomantidae)
The biology and distribution patterns of the Sahelian mantid species Nilomantis floweri are still insufficiently known. For the first time, records are confirmed of this species from Iran and the distribution map of its native range is updated. Records are compiled from the Sahel zone of North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Iran. Detailed information on its biology, oothecal characteristics, male genitalia variation, and intraspecific molecular diversity in the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase are provided, and ecological niche modelling was used to gain insight into the overall species distribution and understand its climatic niche limits. Genetic analysis revealed only one haplotype shared between Iran and Oman. The Iranian populations likely represent two distinct clusters, both more related to the diverse Oman haplotypes than to each other. Based on new data, N. floweri appears to be mostly associated with coastal areas in southwestern Asia, with the vast majority of records found along the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and Oman Gulf coasts. This distribution contrasts markedly with N. floweri records in the Sahel, where most collections have been reported in the transitional zone between the southern Sahara and arid thorn savannah, far off the coast. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of this still enigmatic mantid species.
["Climatic niche"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Six new species of the orb-weaver spider genus Araneus Clerck, 1757 (Araneae, Araneidae) and a redescription of A. colubrinus Song & Zhu, 1992 from Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve, Guizhou, China
Six new species of the genus Araneus Clerck, 1757 from Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, China are described: Araneus chenjingi sp. nov. (♂♀), and A. yuboi sp. nov. (♂♀) are assigned to the A. diadematus group; A. lihaiboi sp. nov. (♂♀), A. shii sp. nov. (♂♀), A. wanghuai sp. nov. (♂♀), and A. yangchuandongi sp. nov. (♂♀) are assigned to the A. sturmi group. Araneus colubrinus Song & Zhu, 1992 is redescribed. A new synonym of Araneus colubrinus Song & Zhu, 1992 is proposed: Araneus octodentalis Song & Zhu, 1992 syn. nov.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿A new freshwater amphipod (Arthropoda, Malacostraca, Amphipoda, Gammaridae), Echinogammarus ozbeki sp. nov. from the Tomara Waterfall, Turkey
A new species of freshwater amphipod, Echinogammarus ozbeki sp. nov., collected from Tomara Waterfall, Gümüşhane province, northeastern Anatolia, is described and illustrated. The new species belongs to the genus Echinogammarus and exhibits characteristic uropod 3 features of that genus. Some of the distinctive features of the Echinogammarus ozbeki sp. nov. species are a small body length, urosome segments without dorsal elevations, distal end of the peduncle segments of antenna 1 with setae longer than the diameter of the segment, presence of strong spines accompanying setae on both inner and outer margin of exopod, and uropod 3 parviramous.
["Freshwater"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿On seven undescribed leaf insect species revealed within the recent “Tree of Leaves” (Phasmatodea, Phylliidae)
With the recent advance in molecular phylogenetics focused on the leaf insects (Phasmatodea, Phylliidae), gaps in knowledge are beginning to be filled. Yet, shortcomings are also being highlighted, for instance, the unveiling of numerous undescribed phylliid species. Here, some of these taxa are described, including Phyllium iyadaon sp. nov. from Mindoro Island, Philippines; Phyllium samarense sp. nov. from Samar Island, Philippines; Phyllium ortizi sp. nov. from Mindanao Island, Philippines; Pulchriphyllium heracles sp. nov. from Vietnam; Pulchriphyllium delislei sp. nov. from South Kalimantan, Indonesia; and Pulchriphyllium bhaskarai sp. nov. from Java, Indonesia. Several additional specimens of these species together with a seventh species described herein, Pulchriphyllium anangu sp. nov. from southwestern India, were incorporated into a newly constructed phylogenetic tree. Additionally, two taxa that were originally described as species, but in recent decades have been treated as subspecies, are elevated back to species status to reflect their unique morphology and geographic isolation, creating the following new combinations: Pulchriphyllium scythe (Gray, 1843) stat. rev., comb. nov. from Bangladesh and northeastern India, and Pulchriphyllium crurifolium (Audinet-Serville, 1838) stat. rev., comb. nov. from the Seychelles islands. Lectotype specimens are also designated for Pulchriphyllium scythe (Gray, 1843) stat. rev., comb. nov. and Pulchriphyllium crurifolium (Audinet-Serville, 1838) stat. rev., comb. nov. from original type material.
["India"]

﻿Unveiling the identity of Diaurora Cockerell, 1903 (Bivalvia, Unionidae): morphology, molecular phylogenetics, and the description of a new species
The monotypic freshwater mussel genus Diaurora Cockerell, 1903 has long been enigmatic due to its rarity and morphological confusion with Acuticosta. In this study, we comprehensively redescribed Diaurora aurorea (Heude, 1883) through a detailed analysis of shell morphology and molecular phylogenetics of recently collected specimens. Moreover, a new species, Diaurora laeve sp. nov., was identified from the Fuyishui River, a tributary of the Zishui River in Shaoyang County, Shaoyang City, Hunan Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses showed that D. aurorea and D. laeve sp. nov. were reciprocally monophyletic and formed a clade as sister to Schistodesmus. Our study underscores the necessity of further exploring the diversity of freshwater mussels in understudied small tributaries throughout China.
["Changjiang River"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿Description of a new species of black coral in the family Aphanipathidae (Anthozoa, Antipatharia) from Puerto Rico
Black corals (Anthozoa: Antipatharia) are an anthozoan lineage in the class Hexacorallia that occur across a wide range of habitats from the tropics to the poles and from surface waters to depths deeper than 8000 m. A new species of black coral, Aphanipathes puertoricoensis sp. nov., collected with a remotely operated vehicle 357 m deep off Puerto Rico is recognized in the family Aphanipathidae. The new species is characterized by very long and loosely coiled primary branches and up to 0.5 mm tall spines with as many as 40 or more small conical tubercles. A phylogeny composed of 13 taxa that are closely related to the new species was reconstructed from 793 nuclear loci to show their systematic relationships. Our study integrated morphological and genomic data to show that this new species is distinct from other species in the genus Aphanipathes. Furthermore, our results add to the growing knowledge of black coral diversity, while further demonstrating the need for exploration in deep waters of the Caribbean Sea.
["Aphanipathes"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

﻿Thiotricha sumpichi sp. nov. – a new species of Thiotrichinae (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae) from south-eastern Europe
Thiotricha sumpichi sp. nov. is described from Greece and Croatia. The systematic position of the new species within Thiotricha is discussed based on external and genitalia characters and from DNA barcodes of the mitochondrial COI gene (cytochrome c oxidase 1). Adults, details of external morphology, and male and female genitalia of the new species are illustrated.
["Croatia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Two new species of Sminthurididae (Hexapoda, Collembola, Symphypleona) from Brazil with notes on Denisiella Folsom & Mills and Sphaeridia Linnaniemi
Two new species of Sminthurididae, Sphaeridia piauiensis Medeiros & Bellini, sp. nov. and Denisiella piracurucaensis Silva, Medeiros & Bellini, sp. nov. from Piaui state, Brazil, are herein described and illustrated. Sphaeridia piauiensis sp. nov. resembles species of the irmleri group, like S. irmleri Bretfeld & Gauer, S. fibulifera Bretfeld & Gauer, and S. peruensis Bretfeld & Schulz, by its complex male ventral tube without asymmetrical structures or medial process. However, it differs from them by the combination of the male tibiotarsus III with a leaf-shaped IIpe chaeta and a regular IIIpi chaeta, ventral tube with 1+1 chaetae, and the absence cuticular hooks on the furca. Denisiella piracurucaensis sp. nov. resembles its congeners without the nasal organ, especially D. colombiana Ospina & Palacios-Vargas, by the presence of spiniform chaetae at least on the second antennal segment of the females, four serrated spines on tibiotarsus III, and the ventral dens chaetotaxy, but D. piracurucaensis sp. nov. differs from the latter especially by the presence of 8+8 eyes and the shape of the male proximal tibiotarsal organ. To describe both species all Neotropical Sphaeridia and all described Denisiella species were surveyed, presenting notes on both genera, comparative tables, and keys for these taxa.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Description of two Stenohya species from China (Pseudoscorpiones, Neobisiidae), with comments on the exaggerated sexual dimorphic pedipalp in this genus
Two Stenohya species belonging to the family Neobisiidae are diagnosed, described, and illustrated from China: Stenohya spinata sp. nov. from Chongqing Municipality, and Stenohya huangi Hu & Zhang, 2012 from Fujian Province. The male of S. huangi is reported for the first time. Diagnostic characters of this species are restricted based on the holotype and the new specimens. In addition, a key and a distribution map of the Stenohya species from China are provided, and the potential function of the exaggerated sexual dimorphic pedipalp in the genus Stenohya is discussed.
["Neobisiidae"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Revision of the genus Scopoides Platnick, 1989 from China, with description of a new genus (Araneae, Gnaphosidae)
The genus Scopoides Platnick, 1989 from China is revised. A new genus, Platnickus gen. nov., is established with the type species Scopoides xizangensis Hu, 2001, and a new species is described, Platnickus reni sp. nov. Three new combinations are proposed: Allozelotes gyirongensis (Hu, 2001), comb. nov., Platnickus wanglangensis (Yuan, Zhao & Zhang, 2019), comb. nov., and Platnickus xizangensis (Hu, 2001), comb. nov.
["Ground spider"]

﻿Notes on Dysderidae (Arachnida, Araneae) of Armenia and Iran, with new species and records
New data are provided on dysderid spiders of Armenia and Iran. Dysdera haykana sp. nov. is described based on male specimens collected in Kotayk and Lor provinces, central and northern Armenia. The female of Dysdera nakhchivanica Beydizade, Shafaie & Guseinov, 2018 is described for the first time, and the species is newly recorded from Armenia. Furthermore, new distribution data are provided for Harpactea armenica Dunin, 1989, including the first record of the species from Iran. Photographs and a distribution map are provided for all three species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

﻿Two new species of Curvianchoratus (Monogenoidea, Dactylogyridae) parasitizing Psectrogaster amazonica (Characiformes, Curimatidae) and a new record for Curvianchoratus singularis in the Tocantins River, Maranhão, Brazil
Several studies have demonstrated parasitism by monogenoids in characiform fish in the Neotropics. During studies on the helminth fauna of curimatids from the Tocantins River, specimens of Psectrogaster amazonica Eigenmann & Eigenmann, 1889 were examined and species of Curvianchoratus Hanek, Molnar & Fernando, 1974 were found. Species of the genus are characterized mainly by the complex shape of haptoral anchors with a modified dorsal anchor, composed by two subunits, dorsal-median and dorsal. To date, two species of Curvianchoratus are known to parasitize curimatid fishes: the type species Curvianchoratus hexacleidus Hanek, Molnar & Fernando, 1974 and Curvianchoratus singularis (Suriano, 1980). During examination of specimens of P. amazonica collected in the Tocantins River, Embiral, Imperatriz, Maranhão State, Brazil, two new species of Curvianchoratus were found and are described herein. Curvianchoratus psectrogasteri sp. nov. and Curvianchoratus dominguesi sp. nov. are characterized by possessing the male copulatory organ formed by a long cirrus and a claw-shaped accessory piece, connected to the base of the male copulatory organ by a ligament. The new species differs from the two known congeneric species mainly by the morphology of the dorsal-median and dorsal subunits of the dorsal anchor. Curvianchoratus psectrogasteri sp. nov. also differs from other species of the genus by the absence of the ventral bar and Curvianchoratus dominguesi sp. nov. by the size and shape of the ventral bar. An amendment to the diagnosis of Curvianchoratus is provided to accommodate the new species. The present study increases the number of Curvianchoratus species to four and extends the occurrence of the genus to the Tocantins-Araguaia Basin.
["Curvianchoratus dominguesi sp. nov."]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Taxonomy, phylogeny, and biodiversity of Lumbrineridae (Annelida, Polychaeta) from the Central Pacific Clarion-Clipperton Zone
The DNA taxonomy of six species of the annelid family Lumbrineridae collected from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) in the Central Pacific, an area of potential mining interest for polymetallic nodules, is presented. Lumbrinerids are an ecologically important and understudied annelid family within the deep sea, with many species still undescribed. This study aims to document the taxonomy and biodiversity of the CCZ using specimens collected from the UK-1, OMS, and NORI-D exploration contract areas and Areas of Particular Environmental Interest. Species were identified through a combination of morphological and molecular phylogenetic analysis. We present informal species descriptions associated with voucher specimens, accessible through the Natural History Museum (London) collections, to improve future taxonomic and biodiversity studies of this region. Five taxa in this study had no morphological or genetic matches within the literature and therefore are possibly new to science, but their suboptimal morphological preservation prevented the formalisation of new species. The most abundant taxon Lumbrinerides cf. laubieri (NHM_0020) was compared with the holotype of Lumbrinerides laubieri Miura, 1980 from the deep Northeast Atlantic. Currently no reliable morphological characters separating the Pacific and Atlantic specimens have been found and molecular data from the Atlantic specimens was not available.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿New records of a rare gibberfish, Gibberichthys latifrons (Stephanoberyciformes, Gibberichthyidae), from the South China Sea, with comments on morphological characters
The gibberfish Gibberichthys latifrons is recorded for the first time from southwestern Taiwan, northern South China Sea, based on the collection of seven adults and subadults from the Dong-gang fish market, Pingtung. These specimens represent the northernmost extent of the adult range of the species, and they fill a distributional gap in the western Pacific Ocean. Our findings suggest that a population of the species has become recently established in the region. Detailed descriptions, otolith morphology, and fresh coloration are provided with comments on the morphological characteristics of the genus.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿Two new species of Aphis (Toxoptera) Koch (Hemiptera, Aphididae) from China
Two new aphid species, Aphis (Toxoptera) fafuensis Cheng & Huang, sp. nov., feeding on Adinandra millettii (Pentaphylacaceae) from Fujian, China, and Aphis (Toxoptera) sennae Cheng & Huang, sp. nov., feeding on Senna bicapsularis (Fabaceae) from Yunnan, China, were described. Morphological characters and molecular data supported the taxonomic position of the new species within the subgenus Aphis (Toxoptera). A key for identifying species of apterous viviparous females in this subgenus is provided.
["Aphids"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Revision of the Neotropical water scavenger beetle genus Novochares Girón & Short (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Acidocerinae)
The water scavenger beetle genus Novochares Girón & Short, 2021 is revised using a combination of adult morphological and DNA sequence data. Thirty-eight new species are described: Novochares aperito sp. nov. (Bolivia), N. baca sp. nov. (Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Suriname), N. bidens sp. nov. (Brazil), N. bisinuatus sp. nov. (Brazil), N. clavieri sp. nov. (Brazil, French Guiana, Peru), N. danta sp. nov. (Venezuela), N. dentatus sp. nov. (Ecuador, Venezuela), N. dicranospathus sp. nov. (Peru), N. duo sp. nov. (Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela), N. fernandezae sp. nov. (Brazil, Peru, Venezuela), N. florifer sp. nov. (Brazil), N. furcatus sp. nov. (Brazil), N. garciai sp. nov. (Venezuela), N. garfo sp. nov. (Brazil), N. geminus sp. nov. (Brazil), N. kawsay sp. nov. (Ecuador, Peru), N. latus sp. nov. (Brazil), N. minor sp. nov. (Peru, Suriname, Venezuela), N. mojenos sp. nov. (Bolivia), N. mura sp. nov. (Brazil), N. orchis sp. nov. (Brazil, French Guiana, Suriname), N. pastinum sp. nov. (Ecuador), N. pertusus sp. nov. (Brazil), N. piaroa sp. nov. (Venezuela), N. pilatus sp. nov. (Venezuela), N. pume sp. nov. (Venezuela), N. punctatostriatus sp. nov. (Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname), N. quadrispinus sp. nov. (Brazil, Guyana, Suriname), N. spangleri sp. nov. (Peru), N. tambopatense sp. nov. (Peru), N. tenedor sp. nov. (Guyana, Venezuela), N. triangularis sp. nov. (Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay), N. tridentis sp. nov. (Brazil), N. trifurcatus sp. nov. (Peru), N. unguis sp. nov. (Bolivia, Peru), N. xingu sp. nov. (Brazil), and N. yanomami sp. nov. (Venezuela), N. yora sp. nov. (Peru). One new synonym is proposed: N. carmona (Short, 2005) syn. nov. was determined to be a junior subjective synonym of N. chaquensis (Fernández, 1982). Novochares inornatus (d’Orchymont, 1926) is considered incertae sedis. Updated distributions and new records are provided for most previously described species in the genus. Novochares sallaei (Sharp, 1882) is considered native to the USA (Florida) and not an introduced species as previously suggested. Novochares now contains 52 species and spans the entire Neotropical region from Mexico to Argentina, including the Caribbean islands.
["Aquatic beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

﻿Austrelatus gen. nov., a new genus of Australasian diving beetles (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae), with the discovery of 31 new species from New Guinea
Herein, Austrelatus gen. nov. (type species: Copelatus irregularis W.J. Macleay, 1871) is described for a distinctive lineage of predominantly Australasian species previously assigned to Copelatus Erichson, 1832. The new genus was retrieved as well supported, monophyletic clade in phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequences data using Bayesian and parsimony approaches. The main morphological diagnostic character of Austrelatus is a complex median lobe of the aedeagus, with evident dorsal and ventral sclerites usually divided in apical half into two lobes of different shape or otherwise modified. Morphological comparison of the new genus with other Copelatinae genera, especially with Copelatus and Exocelina Broun, 1886, and a generic key to the New Guinean Copelatinae are provided. New combinations are established for 31 already described species mainly from the Australian Region (all from Copelatus): Austrelatus adelbert (Megna, Atthakor, Manaono, Hendrich & Balke, 2017), comb. nov.; A. badeni (Sharp, 1882), comb. nov.; A. bakewelli (J. Balfour-Browne, 1939), comb. nov.; A. baranensis (Hájek, Shaverdo, Hendrich & Balke, 2021), comb. nov.; A. bougainvillensis (Hájek, Shaverdo, Hendrich & Balke, 2021), comb. nov.; A. boukali (Hendrich & Balke, 1998), comb. nov.; A. clarki (Sharp, 1882), comb. nov.; A. daemeli (Sharp, 1882), comb. nov.; A. davidi (Wewalka, 2017), comb. nov.; A. deccanensis (Sheth, Ghate & Hájek, 2018), comb. nov.; A. fidschiensis (Zimmermann, 1928), comb. nov.; A. gestroi (Régimbart, 1892), comb. nov.; A. irregularis (W.J. Macleay, 1871), comb. nov.; A. kaszabi (Guignot, 1956), comb. nov.; A. kietensis (Hájek, Shaverdo, Hendrich & Balke, 2021), comb. nov.; A. laevipennis (Hájek, Shaverdo, Hendrich & Balke, 2021), comb. nov.; A. luteomaculatus (Guignot, 1956), comb. nov.; A. maushomi (Sheth, Ghate & Hájek, 2018), comb. nov.; A. neoguineensis (Zimmermann, 1919), comb. nov.; A. nigrolineatus (Sharp, 1882), comb. nov.; A. papuensis (J. Balfour-Browne, 1939), comb. nov.; A. parallelus (Zimmermann, 1920a), comb. nov.; A. schuhi (Hendrich & Balke, 1998), comb. nov.; A. sibelaemontis (Hájek, Hendrich, Hawlitschek & Balke, 2010), comb. nov.; A. strigosulus (Fairmaire, 1878), comb. nov.; A. ternatensis (Régimbart, 1899), comb. nov.; A. uludanuensis (Hendrich & Balke, 1995), comb. nov.; A. urceolus (Hájek, Shaverdo, Hendrich & Balke, 2021), comb. nov.; A. variistriatus (Hájek, Shaverdo, Hendrich & Balke, 2021), comb. nov.; A. wallacei (J. Balfour-Browne, 1939), comb. nov. and A. xanthocephalus (Régimbart, 1899), comb. nov. Austrelatus species from New Guinea are divided into two informal species groups, the A. neoguineensis group and A. papuensis group, and A. fumato sp. nov. and A. setiphallus sp. nov. standing aside of them. The A. neoguineensis group is introduced with three previously known species and 29 new species described here based on the morphological characters and Cox1 data: Austrelatus baliem sp. nov., A. bormensis sp. nov., A. brazza sp. nov., A. debulensis sp. nov., A. fakfak sp. nov., A. febrisauri sp. nov., A. fojaensis sp. nov., A. garainensis sp. nov., A. innominatus sp. nov., A. lembenensis sp. nov., A. lisae sp. nov., A. manokwariensis sp. nov., A. mimika sp. nov., A. mirificus sp. nov., A. moreguinensis sp. nov., A. nadjae sp. nov., A. oksibilensis sp. nov., A. pseudoneoguineensis sp. nov., A. pseudoksibilensis sp. nov., A. rajaampatensis sp. nov., A. rouaffer sp. nov., A. rugosus sp. nov., A. sandaunensis sp. nov., A. sarmiensis sp. nov., A. securiformis sp. nov., A. testegensis sp. nov., A. toricelli sp. nov., A. vagauensis sp. nov., and A. wanggarensis sp. nov. Copelatus vagestriatus Zimmermann, 1919, syn. nov. is recognised as a junior subjective synonym of A. clarki (Sharp, 1882). The lectotypes of Copelatus gestroi Régimbart, 1892, C. neoguineensis Zimmermann, 1919 and C. xanthocephalus Régimbart, 1899 are designated. All species are (re)described, and their important species characters (genitalia, habitus, and colour patterns) are illustrated. Keys to all species are provided. The known distribution and habitat preferences of each species are outlined briefly. New Guinean Austrelatus occupy a variety of stagnant water habitats, either lentic sensu stricto, or standing water associated with lotic habitats (e.g., backflows, rockpools, intermittent / ephemeral stream pools).
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Three new species of the sea fan genus Muricea (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Plexauridae) from the northwest region of Mexico
Twenty-one nominal species of Muricea have been reported in the Eastern Pacific with nine of them reported in the Mexican Pacific. We describe three new species of Muricea: Muricea ambarae sp. nov. and Muricea cacao sp. nov., from rocky reefs on the central and the northern Gulf of California and the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur, and Muricea molinai sp. nov., from the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur. Muricea ambarae sp. nov. and M. cacao sp. nov. are taxonomically allied to the nominal species Muricea fruticosa Verrill, 1869 due to the morphological similarity of colony growth patterns and the phylogenetic closeness based on the mitochondrial MutS gene (mtMutS); but differ mainly in the calyx form and composition of sclerites. The main morphological differences between the new Muricea species are in their sclerite forms and color; M. ambarae sp. nov. has orange-colored colonies, thin leaf spindles and tuberculated blunt spindles, while M. cacao sp. nov. has dark brown colored colonies, strong spinous spindles and an absence of tuberculated blunt spindles. Muricea molinai sp. nov. is phylogenetically close and morphologically similar to Muricea squarrosa Verrill, 1869 in the growth form of the colony and tubular calyces; but has dark brown colored colonies and has calyces from the base to the branch tips. With these three new species, the total number of Muricea species reported in the Mexican northwest region increases to twelve and a total of 24 nominal species in the Eastern Pacific.
["Baja California"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

﻿An enigmatic new octocoral species (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Malacalcyonacea) from Isla del Coco National Park
Aliena parva gen. et sp. nov. is described from Cocos Island, Costa Rica. The species was found at various islets and rocky outcrops north and northwest of the island, 20–30 m in depth. The genus is characterised by polyps, retracting into calyces, that form thin encrusting mats extending on dead or live substrates. Sclerites are mostly asymmetrical spindles. Anthocodial rods are arranged in points, not forming a collaret. Colonies and coenenchymal sclerites are red, and polyps are transparent. Using an integrative taxonomic approach, we found the new genus to morphologically and genetically differ from all other described taxa. The molecular phylogenetic analyses provide strong support for the placement of this new genus in the family Pterogorgiidae. Morphologically it is unlike any of the other members of this family, necessitating an amendment to the diagnosis of Pterogorgiidae. Like several other known taxa of octocorals with encrusting growth forms, Aliena gen. nov. appears to have evolved from a gorgonian ancestor by loss of an internal skeletal axis. It is the first member of Pterogorgiidae to be reported from the eastern Pacific, contributing further to the knowledge of marine biodiversity in the eastern tropical Pacific and to the octocoral biodiversity of Cocos Island in particular.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

﻿Two new species of Amaurobius C.L. Koch, 1837 from China (Araneae, Amaurobiidae)
Two new species of the genus Amaurobius are described from China: A. guangwushanensis sp. nov. (♂♀) from Sichuan and A. wulongdongensis sp. nov. (♂♀) from Shaanxi. With the addition of two new species, the number of Amaurobius species endemic to China now reaches four. Morphological descriptions, photos, and illustrations of copulatory organs, as well as a map of distribution records, are provided.
["Amaurobius guangwushanensis sp. nov."]

﻿Two new species of Acanthobothrium Blanchard, 1848 (Cestoda, Onchoproteocephalidea) from Urobatis jamaicensis (Cuvier, 1816) (Elasmobranchii, Batoidea, Myliobatiformes) of the Mexican Caribbean
Eight specimens of Urobatis jamaicensis were collected from four localities of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, of which four specimens were infected with cestodes of two new species of Acanthobothrium. Acanthobothrium garciaprietoi sp. nov. differs from congeners by a combination of characters including the size of the scolex and bothridia, length of the cephalic peduncle, length of the axial and abaxial prongs and total length of the abaxial prongs of the hooks, size of the cirrus sac and testes in mature proglottids, and the total number of proglottids. The most prominent characteristic distinguishing A. pulidofloresae sp. nov. from other species of the Atlantic Ocean/Caribbean Sea/Gulf of Mexico is the form of the scolex, which has the “clover leaf” configuration. In addition, it can be distinguished by the total length of the worm, total number of proglottids, small accessory suckers, the form of the bothridia, length of the axial and abaxial prongs and total abaxial prong length of hooks, and the number of testes. According to the current category scheme, A. garciaprietoi sp. nov. and A. pulidofloresae sp. nov., belong to categories 1 and 5, respectively.
["Elasmobranchs"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

﻿First record of the genus Pseudaeginella Mayer, 1890 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Caprellidae) with a new species from Korean waters
A new species of the genus Pseudaeginella Mayer, 1890 belonging to the family Caprellidae Leach, 1814 was collected from the South Sea in Korea. Pseudaeginella carinaspinosa sp. nov. is morphologically similar to related congeners belonging to the genera Paradeutella Mayer, 1890 and Pseudaeginella, in having dorsal projections on pereonites, triarticulate mandibular palp, small or absent molar, and uniarticulate pereopods 3 and 4. However, this new species is distinguished from its congeners by the position and size of dorsal projection. This is the first record of Pseudaeginella from the Northwest Pacific region, including Korea, and a key to species of the genus Pseudaeginella is also provided.
["Amphipod"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿Genotyping the phenotypic diversity in Aegean Natrix natrix moreotica (Bedriaga, 1882) (Reptilia, Serpentes, Natricidae)
We examined the mitochondrial identity of Aegean Natrix natrix moreotica representing different morphotypes, with a focus on new material from Milos and Skyros. We found no correlation between distinct morphotypes and mitochondrial identity. Our results support that grass snake populations are polyphenetic and that southern subspecies, including island populations, show a higher variability than northern ones.
["Cyprus"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Nycteribiid bat flies (Arthropoda, Insecta, Diptera, Nycteribiidae) of Kenya
Bat flies (Diptera: Nycteribiidae and Streblidae) are hematophagous ectoparasites of bats characterized by viviparous pupiparity and generally high host specificity. Nycteribiid bat flies are wingless, morphologically constrained, and are most diverse in the Eastern Hemisphere. Africa hosts approximately 22% of global bat biodiversity and nearly one-third of all African bat species occur in Kenya, one of Africa’s most bat-rich countries. However, records of nycteribiid bat fly diversity in Kenya remain sparse and unconsolidated. This paper combines all past species records of nycteribiid bat flies with records from a survey of 4,255 Kenyan bats across 157 localities between 2006 and 2015. A total of seven nycteribiid genera and 17 species are recorded, with seven species from the recent ‘Bats of Kenya’ surveys representing previously undocumented country records. Host associations and geographic distributions based on all available records are also described. This comprehensive species catalog addresses and further emphasizes the need for similar investigations of nycteribiid biodiversity across Africa.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Zoonotic diseases and public health"]

﻿Common but ignored: a new species of Cyrtodactylus (Chordata, Reptilia, Squamata, Gekkonidae) from lowland Sumatra Barat, Indonesia
The lowland region of Sumatra Barat has received little attention in previous biodiversity studies. Past studies have mainly focused on highland habitat and conservation areas. However, many populations of Cyrtodactylus in the lowland habitats of Sumatra Barat were not correctly identified. A phylogenetic tree based on the NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene showed that the lowland Sumatran population is the sister group of the Malaysian lowland species, C. semenanjungensis, together nesting within the agamensis group. The genetic divergence within the Sumatra Barat population is 0–4.2% and 18.3–20% to C. semenanjungensis. Further examination of morphological characters revealed that they differed from the sister clade and other Sumatran Cyrtodactylus members by a unique combination of characters such as absence of tubercle on brachium, presence of tubercle on ventrolateral fold, 32–41 paravertebral tubercles, 38–46 ventral scales, enlarged femoral scales, presence of precloacofemoral pores and 22–23 subdigital lamellae under fourth toe. Based on the morphological and molecular evidence, the lowland Sumatran population is herein described as a new species, increasing the number of species in Sumatra to seven. More comprehensive and intensive sampling efforts would most likely yield further discoveries in the group of Sumatran Cyrtodactylus in the near future.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿A new species of Umbilia Jousseaume, 1884 (Mollusca, Cypraeidae) from the Pliocene fauna of the Roe Plains, Western Australia
A new morphologically distinct species of cowry (family Cypraeidae Rafinesque, 1815) is described from the Late Pliocene Roe Calcarenite of the Roe Plains, Western Australia. Previously assigned to Umbilia hesitata (Iredale, 1916), the new species differs morphometrically from related taxa and is differentiated from U. hesitata by a number of shell features including a prominent, projecting protoconch, less extended posterior and anterior terminals, coarser columellar teeth extending onto the base, and well-developed, thickened anterior flanges, supporting a rounded anterior extremity with blunt anterior tips. Umbilia tomdarraghi sp. nov. is the third Umbilia species to be described from the Pliocene.
["Cowrie"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

﻿Phyllodiaptomus parachristineae, a new species of copepod (Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae) from the floodplain of the lower Mekong River Basin in Thailand and Cambodia
Phyllodiaptomus (Phyllodiaptomus) parachristineae sp. nov., a new diaptomid copepod, was collected from 30 sites in the lower Mekong River Basin floodplain in northeastern Thailand and nine sites in Cambodia. The new species is the 13th species of the genus to have been recorded across Asia. It has a wide range of habitats, occurring in small to large, temporary to permanent water bodies, and it can be found at any time of the year. The morphology of the new species is most similar to that of the males of P. (P.) christineae, having a comb on the antepenultimate segment on the right antennule, symmetrical caudal rami, a narrow hyaline lamella on the left P5 basis, a distal accessory spine on the right P5 Exp-2, and a single-lobed Enp on the right P5. On the other hand, the males of the new species have second and third urosomites without hair-like setae on the ventral margin, a rounded distal margin of the P5 intersclerite plate, a semi-circular lamella on the right P5 basis, a strong principal lateral spine inserted at the proximal 1/3 of the right P5 Exp-2, and a two-segmented left P5 Enp. Morphological differences among species in the subgenus Phyllodiaptomus (Phyllodiaptomus) as well as the distribution and habitats of the 13 species and two subspecies of Phyllodiaptomus in Asia are discussed.
["Freshwater"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

﻿Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of the longhorn beetle, Batocera horsfieldi (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) and its phylogenetic analysis with suitable longhorn beetles
Mitochondrial genome analysis is an important tool for studying insect phylogenetics. The longhorn beetle, Batocera horsfieldi, is a significant pest in timber, economic and protection forests. This study determined the mitochondrial genome of B. horsfieldi and compared it with the mitochondrial genomes of other Cerambycidae with the aim of exploring the phylogenetic status of the pest and the evolutionary relationships among some Cerambycidae subgroups. The complete mitochondrial genome of B. horsfieldi was sequenced by the Illumina HiSeq platform. The mitochondrial genome was aligned and compared with the existing mitochondrial genomes of Batocera lineolata and B. rubus in GenBank (MF521888, MW629558, OM161963, respectively). The secondary structure of transfer RNA (tRNA) was predicted using tRNAScan-SE server v.1.21 and MITOS WebSever. Thirteen protein-coding genes (PCGs) and two ribosomal RNA gene sequences of 21 longhorn beetles, including B. horsfieldi, plus two outgroups, Dryops ernesti (Dryopidae) and Heterocerus parallelus (Heteroceridae), were analyzed. The phylogenetic tree was constructed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. In this study, we successfully obtained the complete mitochondrial genome of B. horsfieldi for the first time, which is 15 425 bp in length. It contains 37 genes and an A + T-rich region, arranged in the same order as the recognized ancestor of longhorn beetles. The genome of B. horsfieldi is composed of 33.12% A bases, 41.64% T bases, 12.08% C bases, and 13.16% G bases. The structure, nucleotide composition, and codon usage of the new mitochondrial genome are not significantly different from other longhorn mitochondrial genomes. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that Cerambycidae formed a highly supported single clade, and Vesperidae was either clustered with Cerambycidae or formed a separate clade. Interestingly, B. horsfieldi, B. rubus and B. lineolata were clustered with Monochamus and Anoplophora species in both analyses, with high node support. Additionally, the Vesperidae Spiniphilus spinicornis and Vesperus sanzi and the 19 Cerambycidae species formed a sister clade in the Bayesian analysis. Our results have produced new complete mitogenomic data, which will provide information for future phylogenetic and taxonomic research, and provide a foundation for future relevant research.
["Evolutionary relationships"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿A new species of the Cyrtodactylus quadrivirgatus complex (Chordata, Reptilia, Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Sumatra Barat, Indonesia
Among the six species of Cyrtodactylus occurring in Sumatra, two species were described based on non-Sumatran type series, C. consobrinus and C. quadrivirgatus. The latter species was described originally from Thailand thus the wider distribution in Sumatra should be clarified taxonomically. Cyrtodactylus quadrivirgatus from Sumatra Barat was examined using both morphology and the Natrium Dehydrogenase Subunit 2 (ND2) gene to clarify its taxonomic status and phylogenetic placement. It was found that these specimens form a sister clade to all other species of the sworderi group from Peninsular Malaysia and the genetic distance ranges from 20–24.3%. This subset is herein described as a new species. The new species is readily distinguished from C. quadrivirgatus and other Sumatran species by a combination of characters: small size SVL 37.5–53.78 mm; longitudinal rows of dorsal tubercles 16–19; paravertebral tubercles 31–41; ventral scales 32–43; 24–49 enlarged precloacal and femoral scales; precloacal pores rarely present; no precloacal depression; two postcloacal tubercles on each side; 14–19 subdigital lamellae on forth toe; 9–15 supralabial scales; 9–12 infralabial scales; three or four internasal scales; and 3–6 gular scales that border the first pair of postmental scales. This work underscores the importance of clarifying widely distributed species for taxonomic validation.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Parartemiopsis shangrilaensis, a new species of fairy shrimp (Branchiopoda, Anostraca) from Yunnan, with a key to the Chirocephalidae of China
The fairy shrimp genus Parartemiopsis Rogers, 2005 currently contains a single species reported from Russia and Mongolia. In 2013, an unidentified Parartemiopsis population was reported from the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau in China’s Yunnan Province, from Patatson National Park in Shangri-La County. Here, we describe the Chinese populations as a new species, Parartemiopsis shangrilaensis sp. nov. This new species is distinguished from its congener, P. longicornis (Smirnov, 1930), by the form of the male second antennae and the gonopod. The discovery of P. shangrilaensis sp. nov. extends the known distribution of the genus, and more Parartemiopsis species may be found in the future. We present a key to the genera and species of Chirocephalidae in China as an aid to future research.
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿First record of the genus Catatemnus Beier, 1932 from China, with the description of six new species (Pseudoscorpiones, Atemnidae)
The genus Catatemnus Beier, 1932 is reported for the first time from China and includes six new species: C. huae sp. nov. from Hainan Island, C. laminosus sp. nov., C. ramus sp. nov., C. scaber sp. nov., and C. tengchongensis sp. nov. all from Yunnan Province, and C. tibetanus sp. nov. from Xizang Autonomous Region. Descriptions and illustrations of all the new species are provided.
["morphology"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿A new, widespread genus of Baetidae from South Asia (Insecta, Ephemeroptera)
Material collected on different islands across South Asia revealed a new genus of Baetidae with a widespread distribution, Arcobaetis gen. nov. The larvae present important similarities with Nigrobaetis, but have paraglossae dorsally with an arc of long, spine-like setae in distal area; long, slightly feathered setae between prostheca and mola of both mandibles; and very slender legs with row of short setae at dorsal margin of femur. The male imago has an extraordinarily small 3rd (apical) segment of gonostylus, which is much narrower than the apex of the 2nd segment. The new genus includes five species: A. sumbawensis sp. nov. is described from Sumbawa (Indonesia) based on larvae, A. sumatrensis sp. nov. from Sumatra (Indonesia) based on larvae, A. bornensis sp. nov. from Borneo (Brunei) based on larvae, and A. sripadai sp. nov. (type species) is described from Sri Lanka based on a reared male imago with its larval and subimaginal exuviae; A. gracilentus (Chang & Yang, 1994), comb. nov. from Taiwan, formerly described in Margobaetis Kang & Yang, 1994, a subgenus of Baetis Leach, 1815, and subsequently transferred to the genus Nigrobaetis Kazlauskas (in Novikova & Kluge), 1987, is transferred to the new genus. A key to the larvae of all species is provided. Morphological similarities and the relationship of the new genus to other genera of Baetidae are discussed.
["Brunei"]

﻿Two new species of the Phaonia boleticola-group (Diptera, Muscidae, Phaoniinae) from China
Two new species of Phaonia are described: Phaonia agitata Zhou & Wei, sp. nov. and Phaonia nujiangensis Zhou & Wei, sp. nov., which were collected from Guizhou and Yunnan provinces of southwestern China and are assigned to the boleticola-group. A key to the species of this group is provided. The type specimens are deposited in the Wei Lianmeng Model Worker Innovation Studio, Anshun, Guizhou, China (WLMWISAGC).
["boleticola-group"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

﻿A hitherto overlooked article by Gressitt in 1941 (Insecta, Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
An article published by Gressitt (1941) has been ignored by all longicornists, including Gressitt himself. However, according to ICZN, it meets all criteria as an official publication, and this status affects three taxa that were formally described therein: Bacchisa (Bacchisa) rigida (Gressitt, 1941) = Chreonoma rigida Gressitt, 1941 = Chreonoma rigida Gressitt, 1942 homonym and syn. nov.; Tetraophthalmus sikang (Gressitt, 1941) = Chreonoma sikang Gressitt, 1941 = Chreonoma sikanga Gressitt, 1942, syn. nov.; Anastathes parva hainana Gressitt, 1941 = Anastathes parva hainana Gressitt, 1942, homonym and syn. nov.
["Date of publication"]

﻿A new species of Otostigmus (Chilopoda, Scolopendromorpha, Scolopendridae) from China, with remarks on the phylogenetic relationships of Otostigmus politus Karsch, 1881
Through a combination of morphological and DNA data, a new scolopendrid centipede from southern and southwestern China was revealed: O. tricarinatus sp. nov. The species belong to the politus group but has three sharp tergal keels. Validation of phylogenetic status was performed through molecular analysis of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 16S rRNA, and 28S rRNA sequences from 16 Otostigmus species. Otostigmus tricarinatus sp. nov. was found to be two populations and varied in the number of spines on the ultimate prefemur, the sutures on a sternite, and a pore-free median longitudinal strip in the pore field. The Yunnan-Guizhou plateau population of O. tricarinatus sp. nov. was sister to the clade O. politus politus + O. politus yunnanensis + Guangxi population of O. tricarinatus sp. nov. with strong support from both BI (bayesian inference) and ML (maximum likelihood) analyses (PP = 1, BS = 97%).
["Centipedes"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Two new species of the genus Norellisoma Wahlgren, 1917 (Diptera, Scathophagidae) from Yintiaoling Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China
The known species of the genus Norellisoma from China are reviewed and two new species from Yintiaoling Nature Reserve in Chongqing City, where no other Norellisoma species are recorded, are described: Norellisoma wuxiense sp. nov., Norellisoma yintiaoense sp. nov. A key to the species of Norellisoma from China is provided.
["Dung fly"]

﻿Taxonomic review of Kaloplocamus from the Yellow Sea, China with the description of a new species (Nudibranchia, Doridina, Polyceridae)
Species of Kaloplocamus Bergh, 1880 are enigmatic Nudibranchia sea slugs, and only two valid species are reported in the northwestern Pacific. Kaloplocamus japonicus (Bergh, 1880) was initially described based on alcohol-fixed specimens. In the latest revision of Kaloplocamus, it was synonymized with Kaloplocamus ramosus (Cantraine, 1835). Recently, several nudibranchs were collected from Tianheng, Shandong Province, China, and one of them is identified as an undescribed species described here as Kaloplocamus albopunctatus sp. nov. based on integrated approaches incorporating morphological observations, internal anatomy, and phylogenetic analyses of two mitochondrial (COI, 16S rRNA) genes. The other species is identified as K. japonicus Bergh, 1880 based on the anatomy of the reproductive system. The new species K. albopunctatus sp. nov. is similar to K. ramosus in having a bright orange-red color pattern but differs significantly in the structure of appendages and reproductive system. Kaloplocamus japonicus can be easily distinguished from other Kaloplocamus species by its translucent, white-pink coloration and unique features of the female reproductive organ. Both species are supported as distinct species in all molecular analyses. The phylogenetic analyses propose a new estimate of the relationship between Kaloplocamus and Plocamopherus, and the evolution of bioluminescence within Triophinae is discussed. Our results also suggest cryptic biodiversity within the K. ramosus species complex.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿Illustrated keys and a DNA barcode reference library of the amphibians and terrestrial reptiles (Amphibia, Reptilia) of São Tomé and Príncipe (Gulf of Guinea, West Africa)
The herpetofauna of São Tomé and Príncipe consists of nine species of amphibians, all endemic, and 21 species of terrestrial reptiles, of which 17 are endemic. Our current knowledge regarding its natural history, ecology, and distribution is limited. Here two important tools are provided to support researchers, conservationists, and local authorities in the identification of the country’s herpetofauna: an illustrated key to the herpetofauna of the two islands and surroundings islets and a DNA barcode reference library. The keys allow a rapid and unambiguous morphological identification of all occurring species. The DNA barcodes for the entire herpetofauna of the country were produced from 79 specimens, all of which are deposited in museum collections. The barcodes generated are available in online repositories and can be used to provide unambiguous molecular identification of most of the species. Future applications and use of these tools are briefly discussed.
["Biological surveys"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Uneven species occurrence and richness of lowland snakes (Serpentes, Squamata) in Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia, with new locality records
This study documents information on the composition, diversity, richness, and temporal occurrence of snakes at Sekayu’s lowland forest (SLF), Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia for the first time. The snakes recorded within the SLF were sampled opportunistically from 2013 to 2019, employing the Visual Encounter Survey method (VES) and L-shape pitfall traps with drift fences. Forty-six snake species from 37 genera belonging to the nine families were recorded, of which 11 were new records to Terengganu. Individual-based rarefaction and extrapolation curves were not reaching asymptote, indicating that additional species can be recorded at the study area. Non-parametric species richness estimators estimated and produced a range between 51 and 57 species. ACE was the best estimator based on the quantitative evaluation. All species showed some variations of occurrence patterns across months. Fourteen species were only encountered once across the sampling years, and interestingly 11 of them were only detected during the rainy season (late October to January). In general, the number of species richness, abundance, and rare species were high during this season. Species richness of snakes is high at SLF but sampling effort should be intensified, especially during these rainy months, to obtain a robust estimated snake species richness in SLF. Terengganu harbor considerably high species richness of snakes with a total of 71 species to date (excluding marine snakes), but snake diversity is still underestimated as only a few localities were surveyed in the past years, primarily at the northern part. Future surveys should be commenced at the central and southern parts of Terengganu to complement the current investigation.
["Monsoon"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

﻿A new species of Hypothyce (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae) from Alabama, United States of America
A new species, Hypothyce rayi MacGown & Hill, sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae: Melolonthini), is described from east central Alabama, USA. Three other species of Hypothyce, H. burnei Skelley, H. mixta Howden and H. osburni (Cartwright) are known to occur in the United States. We discuss differences between these species and provide an updated identification key to the genus.
["Coastal Plain"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and soil sciences"]

﻿Three new species of Entomobryidae (Collembola, Entomobryoidea) from China
Three new species of entomobryid springtails (Collembola) from China are described here. Homidia pseudozhangi sp. nov. is characterised by a narrow irregular longitudinal stripe on the body, smooth chaetae e and l1 of the labial base, and the relative position of the specialized microchaeta on Abd. I; H. qianensis sp. nov. by its colour pattern on the antennae and nine sutural macrochaetae on the head; and Entomobrya shaanxiensis sp. nov. by its colour pattern, labral papillae and the lateral process of labial papilla E. Specimens of Akabosia matsudoensis Kinoshita, 1919 from China are redescribed, including description of some characters for the first time.
["Akabosia"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿A new species of Hemiphyllodactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Ha Giang Province, Vietnam
An integrative analysis recovered a new species of the Hemiphyllodactylus typus group from a karst formation in Lung Cu Commune, Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province, northeastern Vietnam. Hemiphyllodactylus lungcuensis sp. nov. is embedded within clade 6 of the typus group, bearing an uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence of 4.6–20.2% from all other species based on a 1,038 base pair segment of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (ND2). It is diagnosable from other species in clade 6 by statistically significant mean differences in normalized morphometric, meristic, and categorical characters. A multiple factor analysis using the three aforementioned character types recovered its unique, non-overlapping placement in morphospace as statistically significantly different from that of all other species in clade 6. The description of this new Hemiphyllodactylus species contributes to a growing body of literature underscoring the high degree of herpetological diversity and endemism in karst landscapes in Vietnam as well as in the genus Hemiphyllodactylus.
["Genetics"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Diminishing the taxonomic gap in the neotropical soldierless termites: descriptions of four new genera and a new Anoplotermes species (Isoptera, Termitidae, Apicotermitinae)
The neotropical Apicotermitinae is a common and widespread clade of mostly soil-feeding soldierless termites. With few exceptions, species of this group were originally assigned to the genus Anoplotermes Müller, 1873. The application of internal worker morphology coupled with genetic sequencing has recently shed light on the true diversity of this subfamily. Herein, Anoplotermes susanae Scheffrahn, Carrijo & Castro, sp. nov. and four new species in four new genera are described: Hirsutitermes kanzakii Scheffrahn, Carrijo & Castro, gen. nov. et sp. nov., Krecekitermes daironi Scheffrahn, Carrijo & Castro, gen. nov. et sp. nov., Mangolditermes curveileum Scheffrahn, Carrijo & Castro, gen. nov. et sp. nov., and Ourissotermes giblinorum Scheffrahn, Carrijo & Castro, gen. nov. et sp. nov. Worker descriptions are based mainly on worker gut morphology, including the enteric valve, while imagoes were described based on external characters. A Bayesian phylogenetic tree of New World Apicotermitinae was constructed using the complete mitogenome to infer genera relationships and corroborate the taxonomic decisions. Distribution maps and a dichotomic key to the known Neotropical Apicotermitinae genera are provided.
["Enteric valve armature"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿A new species of Illacme from southern California (Siphonophorida, Siphonorhinidae)
The millipede fauna inhabiting deep soil are poorly known. They are small and threadlike, slow moving, lacking pigmentation, and rarely encountered due to their obscure underground way of life. One family, the Siphonorhinidae, encompasses four genera and 12 species in a fragmentary distribution in California, southern Africa, Madagascar, the Malay Archipelago, and Indo-Burma. The family is represented in the Western Hemisphere by a single genus, Illacme Cook & Loomis, 1928 from California, with its closest known relative, Nematozonium filum Verhoeff, 1939, from southern Africa. A new species of this family is documented from soil microhabitats in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Illacme socal Marek & Shear, sp. nov. Based on this discovery and the recent documentation of other endogean millipede species, we show that these grossly understudied subterranean fauna represent the next frontier of discovery. However, they are threatened by encroaching human settlement and habitat loss, and conservation of this species and other subterranean fauna is of high importance.
["Colobognatha"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿Redescription and geographical distribution of Leiostracus obliquus (Reeve, 1849) (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Simpulopsidae)
Leiostracus Albers, 1850 was established to allocate land snails from Central America and Northern South America. Currently, approximately 19 species are considered valid. However, for most of them, the internal morphology is unknown. Leiostracus obliquus was described as a species of Bulimus from the state of Bahia based on shell characters. Until now, knowledge of this species has been scarce. The discovery of ethanol-preserved specimens from MZSP of this species allowed us to characterize, for the first time, the internal anatomy of this species and update its distribution. The shell of L. obliquus has seven to eight whorls and a wide pale-pink disrupted band all over the teleoconch. The rachidian tooth is small rectangular, symmetric, with round edges, and without differentiated cusps. After comparing the anatomy and radular characters between the shells of L. obliquus and L. carnavalescus, we found remarkable similarities in the morphology and color pattern.

﻿Two new records and an updated checklist of freshwater crabs (Arthropoda, Malacostraca, Decapoda, Potamidae and Gecarcinucidae) from Bangladesh
The species diversity of freshwater crabs of Bangladesh is poorly known. In this study, Acanthopotamon fungosum (Alcock, 1909) and Maydelliathelphusa edentula (Alcock, 1909) are reported as new records from Bangladesh. The two species were identified through morphology and molecular phylogeny based on 16S rDNA gene sequences. Herein, diagnostic characters of both species are provided respective to close congeners. There is concern over the conservation status of A. fungosum due to its narrow distributional range. In addition, an updated checklist and a key to the freshwater crabs of Bangladesh are provided.
["Acanthopotamon"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

﻿Notes on twelve species of jumping spiders from Hainan Island, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
Three new genera and eleven new species are reported from Hainan Island, China. The new genera are Logunattus gen. nov., including L. dufui sp. nov. (♂), and the generotype L. libaii sp. nov. (♂♀), Qiongattus yuanyeae gen. et sp. nov. (♂♀), and Spiralembolus gen. nov., including the generotype S. yinggeling sp. nov. (♂♀), and S. yui sp. nov. (♂♀). Another six new species are Carrhotus qingzhaoae sp. nov. (♂♀), Gedea liangweii sp. nov. (♂♀), Heliophanoides moi sp. nov. (♂), Indopadilla songi sp. nov. (♂♀), Myrmarachne mixiaoqii sp. nov. (♂♀), and Nandicius shihaitaoi sp. nov. (♂♀). The unknown female of the endemic species, Pancorius hainanensis Song & Chai, 1991 is also described for the first time. Diagnostic photos of these species are provided.
["Mobile and Web Applications", "Edcuational Technology Systems", "Robotics and Automated Systems"]

﻿Mealybugs (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) on parasitic plants (Loranthaceae) in Indonesia with description of a new species and a new country record
Parasitic plants have been known to be attacked by insect pests since ancient times. However, little is known about the mealybug (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) fauna associated with them. A series of surveys of mealybugs found on Loranthaceae, a semi-parasitic plant family, was conducted in several places in Bengkulu Province, southern Sumatra, Indonesia. In the study, 55 mealybug specimens were collected, consisting of eight species belonging to five genera, namely Chorizococcus McKenzie (1 species), Dysmicoccus Ferris (2 species), Ferrisia Fullaway (1 species), Planococcus Ferris (3 species) and Pseudococcus Westwood (1 species). Chorizococcus ozeri Zarkani & Kaydan, sp. nov. is new to science, whilst Planococcus bagmaticus Williams represents the first record in Indonesia. In addition, the mealybugs Dysmicoccus lepelleyi (Betrem), Dysmicoccus zeynepae Zarkani & Kaydan, Ferrisia dasylirii (Cockerell), Planococcus lilacinus (Cockerell) and Pseudococcus jackbeardsleyi Gimpel & Miller are newly recorded from plants of the family Loranthaceae. Figures and illustrations of mealybug species with a taxonomic key to Asian Chorizococcus and a new country record based on morphological characters are also updated.
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿A new species of Trychosis Förster (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Cryptinae), with a key to the species known from China
A new species of Ichneumonidae, Trychosis naolihense Meng & Ren, sp. nov., is described and illustrated. Specimens were collected from Naolihe National Natural Reserve, Heilongjiang Province, China. A key to the currently known species from China is provided.
["Agrothereutina"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿Reassessment of the type locality of Euptychia stigmatica Godman, 1905, with the description of two new sibling species from Amazonia (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae, Satyrini)
A brief historical review regarding the type locality of Euptychia stigmatica Godman, 1905 was conducted, which suggests that its type locality is actually Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, rather than northeastern Argentina, as previously purported. Consequently, E. stigmatica and its senior synonym E. cyanites Butler, 1871, are regarded to be two species-group names representing a taxon in the euptychiine genus Caeruleuptychia Forster, 1964 known from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. A lectotype is designated for E. cyanites. Additionally, two closely related species are named and described using an integrative approach with morphological and molecular evidence. Caeruleuptychia harrisi Nakahara & Freitas, sp. nov. and C. aemulatio Nakahara & Willmott, sp. nov. both occur in Amazonia and COI barcode data recovered these taxa as part of the caerulea clade of Caeruleuptychia.
["Atlantic Forest"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

﻿Species delimitation, biogeography, and natural history of dwarf funnel web spiders (Mygalomorphae, Hexurellidae, Hexurella) from the United States / Mexico borderlands
The rarely encountered spider genus Hexurella Gertsch & Platnick, 1979 includes some of the smallest mygalomorph spiders in the world, with four poorly known taxa from central and southeastern montane Arizona, southern California, and northern Baja California Norte. At time of description the genus was known from fewer than 20 individuals, with sparse natural history information suggesting a vagrant, web-building, litter-dwelling natural history. Here the first published taxonomic and natural history information for this taxon is provided in more than 50 years, working from extensive new geographic sampling, consideration of male and female morphology, and sequence capture-based nuclear phylogenomics and mitogenomics. Several new species are easily diagnosed based on distinctive male morphologies, while a complex of populations from central and northern Arizona required an integrative combination of genomic algorithmic species delimitation analyses and morphological study. Four new species are described, including H. ephedra sp. nov., H. uwiiltil sp. nov., H. xerica sp. nov., and H. zas sp. nov. Females of H. encina Gertsch & Platnick, 1979 are also described for the first time. It is predicted that additional new species will ultimately be found in the mountains of central and northwestern Arizona, northern mainland Mexico, and the Mojave Desert of California.

﻿Fossil Carychiidae (Eupulmonata, Ellobioidea) from the Lower Pleistocene Nashua Formation of Florida, with the description of a new species
Recent fossil shell mining for a new rail line in the Orlando area of Orange County, Florida has uncovered two species of the ellobioid genus Carychium O. F. Müller, 1773 in a bed of freshwater marl from the Lower Pleistocene Nashua Formation. To taxonomically interpret these finds, the well-preserved shells were imaged via high-resolution X-ray tomography (micro-CT) to view significant internal diagnostic characters such as the columellar configuration and the degree of lamellar sinuosity and their relationship in context to the entire shell. The image data are compared to that of type material and extant and fossil Carychium species inhabiting the SE USA, Mexico, Central America, and Jamaica. Based on these results, the species Carychium floridanum G. H. Clapp, 1918 and Carychium nashuaense sp. nov. are identified from fossil shells dating from the Early Pleistocene. This work documents the first fossil members of C. floridanum and the first fossil Carychium from the SE USA.
["Central Florida"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

﻿A second species of the pill millipede genus Nearctomeris Wesener, 2012 (Diplopoda, Glomerida) from the Great Smoky Mountains, USA
We describe a second species of Nearctomeris Wesener, 2012, a genus of pill millipede endemic to the southern Appalachians, based on morphological and molecular evidence. The fauna of Glomerida in America is characterized by its low diversity, and Nearctomeris smoky sp. nov. is only the fifth species of the order known from the eastern United States. Our phylogenetic analyses based on COI sequences recover a tentatively monophyletic lineage including both eastern American genera Onomeris Cook, 1896 and Nearctomeris, with a common ancestor in the Late Cretaceous to Mid Eocene and extant diversity within genera dating back to the Miocene. Our results suggest that the observed low diversity of the group in the eastern US is likely caused by extinction events, but it is also possible that new species are yet to be found. We provide new records for Nearctomeris inexpectata Wesener, 2012, Onomeris underwoodi Cook, 1896 and O. australora Hoffman, 1950; the latter is here reported for the first time from South Carolina. We also present DNA barcoding data for all species of Glomerida present in the US that are not yet publicly available.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿A new species of Achalinus Peters, 1869 (Squamata, Xenodermidae) from Hunan Province, China
A new species, Achalinus hunanensis sp. nov., is described from middle and western Hunan Province based on the results of molecular systematics and morphological characters. It diverges from known congeners by a significant genetic divergence (p-distance 3.2%–16.9% based on CO1 mitochondrial gene), and it can be distinguished from all known congeners by the following morphological characters: (1) all dorsal scales strongly keeled, 23 rows throughout the body, the outmost one strongly keeled and enlarged; (2) tail relatively short, TaL/TL 0.221 ~ 0.225; (3) maxillary teeth 23; (4) the suture between internasals 2 × as long as that between prefrontals; (5) loreal one, subrectangular, LorH/LorL 0.62 ~ 0.70; (6) supralabials 6, the 4th and 5th touch the eye; (7) the two anterior temporals in contact with eye; (8) ventrals 163–165, subcaudals 69–72, not paired. This raises the number of known species of Achalinus to 24.
["Achalinus hunanensis sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

﻿New species of the genus Pseudocuneopsis Huang, Dai, Chen & Wu, 2022 (Bivalvia, Unionidae) from Guangxi Province, China
A new species of freshwater mussel belonging to the genus Pseudocuneopsis, namely Pseudocuneopsis yangshuoensis sp. nov., is diagnosed and described from Guangxi Province, China. This paper provides a detailed morphological description, photograph of the type specimen, and anatomical characteristics along with partial sequences of mitochondrial COI as DNA barcode data for this novel species. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners (Pseudocuneopsis sichuanensis and Pseudocuneopsis capitata) by shell shape, beak position and surface sculpture. The interspecies genetic distance based on the COI barcode between P. yangshuoensis sp. nov. and P. sichuanensis is 8%, while it reaches 9% with P. capitata. Therefore, we provide robust morphological and molecular evidence to support the validity of this new species.
["Bivalves"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Orthopaedic implants and arthroplasty", "Orthopedic Infections and Treatments"]

﻿Two new genera and one new species of the tribe Adeshini (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Braconinae) from India and South Africa
Two new genera and one new species of the Braconinae tribe Adeshini are described and illustrated: Crenuladesha Ranjith & Quicke, gen. nov., type species Adesha narendrani Ranjith, 2017, comb. nov. from India, and Protadesha Quicke & Butcher, gen. nov., type species Protadesha intermedia Quicke & Butcher, sp. nov. from South Africa. The former lacks the mid-longitudinal propodeal carina characteristic of the tribe, and the latter displays less derived fore wing venation with two distinct abscissae of vein 2CU. A molecular phylogenetic analysis is included to confirm their correct placement. Since neither of the two new genera displays all of the characters given in the original diagnosis of the Adeshini a revised diagnosis is provided, as well as an illustrated key to the genera.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿New records of the squat lobster genus Munidopsis Whiteaves, 1874 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Munidopsidae) from the deep sea off Taiwan
Two species of the squat lobster family Munidopsidae, Munidopsis albatrossae Pequegnat & Pequegnat, 1973 and M. pycnopoda Baba, 2005, are reported from Taiwan for the first time based on specimens collected from lower bathyal depths. The Taiwanese material of M. pycnopoda also represents the first record of the species from the Pacific Ocean and greatly extends this species’ geographical range from the western Indian Ocean to western Pacific. The giant Munidopsis specimen from Taiwan is identified as M. albatrossae mainly by DNA barcoding even though M. albatrossae and M. aries (A. Milne-Edwards, 1880) are both morphologically and genetically extremely similar.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿New species of Nigrobaetis from Southeast Asia (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Based on larvae collected in the Philippines, Borneo (Kalimantan), Sumba, and Sumatra, the presence of the genus Nigrobaetis in the Philippines and Indonesia is reported for the first time. Six new species are described and illustrated, two from the Philippines and four from Indonesia. A larval key to all Nigrobaetis species of the Philippines, Indonesia and neighbouring continental Southeast Asia is provided, morphological differences to the species of Taiwan are discussed as well. The eggs of three new species are described, and the morphology of the eggs of Nigrobaetis is briefly discussed.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿The systematic position of Cryptopotamon anacoluthon (Kemp, 1918), with the description of a new species of Sinolapotamon Tai & Sung, 1975 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura, Potamidae) from southern China
The systematics of the potamid freshwater crab Cryptopotamon anacoluthon (Kemp, 1918) is clarified, and its generic position in Sinolapotamon Tai & Sung, 1975, is confirmed based on morphological comparisons, geographical information and phylogenetic analyses. A new species of Sinolapotamon, Sinolapotamon cirratum sp. nov. is described from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China. Sinolapotamon cirratum sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by the combination of characters of its carapace, third maxilliped, anterolateral margin, and unique male first gonopod. Phylogenetic analyses based on partial COX1, 16S rRNA and 28S rRNA genes also support the species as new.
["Freshwater crabs"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Characterization of two new Pylorgus mitogenomes (Hemiptera, Lygaeidae, Ischnorhynchinae) and a mitochondrial phylogeny of Lygaeoidea
Lygaeidae is a large family of Hemiptera (Heteroptera) currently separated into three subfamilies, Ischnorhynchinae, Lygaeinae, and Orsillinae. In this research, the complete mitogenomes of the iscnorhynchines Pylorgus porrectus Zheng, Zou & Hsiao, 1979 and Pylorgus sordidus Zheng, Zou & Hsiao, 1979 were sequenced, and the phylogeny of Pylorgus and the Lygaeidae with known complete mitogenomes were examined. The mitogenomes are 15,174 bp and 15,399 bp in size, respectively, and comprised of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), and a control region (D-loop). Nucleotide composition is biased toward A and T, and the gene order is identical to that of the putative ancestral arrangement of insects. Eleven PCGs begin with a typical ATN, and the remaining two PCGs begin with TTG (cox1 and nad4l). All tRNAs had a typical cloverleaf secondary structure, but some of them had individual base mismatches. The phylogenetic analyses based on the concatenated nucleotide sequences of the 13 PCGs, using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood, support the monophyly of Lygaeidae. The results show that P. porrectus and P. sordidus clustered with nine other Lygaeidae. This study includes the first complete sequencing of the mitochondrial genomes of two Pylorgus species, which will provide important data for studying the phylogenetic position of Lygaeidae in Lygaeoidea and reconstructing the phylogenetic relationships within Pentatomomorpha.
["Heteroptera"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

﻿A new species of Siphlonurus Eaton, 1868 (Ephemeroptera, Siphlonuridae) from Yunnan, China
Siphlonurus dongxi Li & Tong, sp. nov. from Shangri-La City, Yunnan Province, China, is described based on egg, nymph, and winged stages. The new species is closely related to S. davidi (Navás, 1932), and can be distinguished by the colour of the imago, the forking point of MP, the penis, posterolateral spines of tergum IX of imagoes, and first abdominal terga nymph, as well as the structure of the egg. The new species and S. davidi have the same morphological and structural characteristics, such as the long cubital area with many intercalaries, cross veins between C, Sc, RA, and RSa1 surrounded with distinct pigments, the strong curvature of vein CuP in the forewing, the broad expansion of the hindwing, the membranous penis lobes fused without teeth, supporting the proposition of a new species complex, the Siphlonurus davidi group. The structures of the penis and the egg of the new species could help understand the origin and evolution of the genus Siphlonurus.
["Hengduan Mountains"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Parahiraciini planthoppers with elongate head from Vietnam: a new genus and species Pumatiracia venosa gen. et sp. nov. and first record of Laohiracia acuta Constant, 2021 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae)
The new genus Pumatiracia gen. nov. is described to accommodate a new species, P. venosa gen. et sp. nov. from Pu Mat National Park in Vietnam. The new genus is placed in the subtribe Parahiraciina of the Parahiraciini. It is compared with the genera Laohiracia Constant, 2021, Macrodarumoides Che, Zhang et Wang, 2012, Pseudochoutagus Che, Zhang et Wang, 2011, and Rostrolatum Che, Zhang et Wang, 2020 with which it shares possessing an elongate head. Illustrations of habitus, details, and male genitalia are given as well as a distribution map and photographs of the habitat. Laohiracia acuta Constant, 2021 is recorded for the first time from Vietnam, Pu Luong National Park; living specimens and habitat are illustrated, and the distribution map updated. The Parahiraciini fauna of Vietnam now comprises 14 species belonging to 11 genera.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Phylogenetic analysis of the Neotropical scarab beetle tribe Aegidiini (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Orphninae) with description of new taxa
In the Neotropics, orphnine scarab beetles are represented by the endemic tribe Aegidiini Paulian, 1984 with five genera and over 50 species. Phylogenetic analysis based on morphological characters of all supraspecific taxa of Orphninae showed that Aegidiini is comprised of two lineages. New subtribes, Aegidiina subtr. nov. (Aegidium Westwood, 1845, Paraegidium Vulcano et al., 1966, Aegidiellus Paulian, 1984, and Onorius Frolov & Vaz-de-Mello, 2015, and Aegidinina subtr. nov. (Aegidinus Arrow, 1904) are proposed to better reflect this phylogeny. Two new species of Aegidinus are described: A. alexanderi sp. nov., from the Yungas in Peru and A. elbae sp. nov. from the Caqueta moist forests ecoregion in Colombia. A diagnostic key to Aegidinus species is given.
["Caqueta moist forests"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

﻿The potter wasp genus Allorhynchium from Vietnam, with descriptions of three new species and a new country record (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae)
Species of the potter wasp genus Allorhynchium van der Vecht (Eumeninae: Odynerini) occurring in Vietnam are presented. Seven species have been recorded from Vietnam. Of them, three species are described as new to science: Allorhynchium latum Nguyen, Tran & MT Nguyen, sp. nov., A. moerum Nguyen & AD Nguyen, sp. nov., and A. setosum Nguyen & Engel, sp. nov., and one species, A. argentatum (Fabricius, 1804), is recorded from Vietnam for the first time. An updated key to the Oriental species of the genus is presented.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Two new Ptychoptera Meigen, 1803 (Diptera, Ptychopteridae) from the Western Palaearctic
Ptychoptera xanthopleura Dvořák, Oboňa & Manko, sp. nov. from Azerbaijan and Georgia, and Ptychoptera staryi Dvořák, Oboňa & Manko, sp. nov. from Bulgaria are described. P. xanthopleura sp. nov. differs from the other member of the lacustris group mainly by having almost completely yellow pleurae, and by the shape of the epandrium and gonocoxites. The diagnostics of P. staryi sp. nov. and P. incognita Török, Kolcsár & Keresztes, 2015 based on male genitalia are provided.
["Balkan Peninsula"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

﻿Four new species of mygalomorph spiders (Araneae, Halonoproctidae and Theraphosidae) from the Colombian Pacific region (Bahía Solano, Chocó)
The Colombian Pacific coast is an amazing natural region, immersed in one of the most unknown biodiversity hotspots in the world. An expedition carried out in the north of this area, at the Jardín Botánico del Pacífico (JBP) in Bahía Solano, Chocó, focused on studying the diversity of the mygalomorph spider fauna, allowed us to discover four new species included in the families Halonoproctidae and Theraphosidae. The trapdoor species Ummidia solana sp. nov., and the theraphosids species Euthycaelus cunampia sp. nov. (Schismatothelinae), Melloina pacifica sp. nov. (Glabropelmatinae), and Neischnocolus mecana sp. nov. (Theraphosinae) are illustrated, diagnosed, and described in detail. Photographs of somatic features and copulatory organs and a distribution map are provided. Morphological, taxonomical, and biogeographical aspects are discussed for each species. All these taxonomic novelties represent the first records of these genera for the region, expanding the range of geographic distribution of each of them. This work constitutes the first effort focused on characterizing the community of Mygalomorphae species in the Chocó Biogeographic Region.
["Choc\u00f3 Biogeographic Region"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Six new species of the leafhopper subgenus Pediopsoides (Pediopsoides) (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Eurymelinae, Macropsini) from China
The nominate subgenus Pediopsoides (Pediopsoides) Matsumura, 1912 is widely distributed in the Oriental region but has high species diversity only in southern China. The present paper describes and illustrates six new species of Pediopsoides (Pediopsoides) namely, P. (P.) ailaoshanensis Li & Dai, sp. nov., P. (P.) quadrispinosus Li & Dai, sp. nov., P. (P.) flavus Li & Dai, sp. nov., and P. (P.) pianmaensis Li & Dai, sp. nov. all collected in Yunnan Province, southwestern China, P. (P.) maoershanensis Li & Dai, sp. nov., found in Guangxi Autonomous Region, southern China, and P. (P.) huangi Li & Dai sp. nov., from Taiwan, previously incorrectly recorded as a new name by Li & Dai, 2018 in Dai et al. 2018: 203 for P. (P.) femorata Huang & Viraktamath, 1993 (nec Pediopsis femorata Hamilton, 1980). Two new junior synonyms of Sispocnis Anufriev, 1967 are proposed, i.e., Digitalis Liu & Zhang, 2002, syn. nov. and Neosispocnis Dmitriev, 2020, syn. nov.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant Pathogenic Bacteria Studies"]

﻿On Caledromus robinsmithi, a new genus and species of Psychrodromini Martens, 2001 (Crustacea, Ostracoda, Herpetocypridinae) from New Caledonia (Pacific Ocean)
The New Caledonian Archipelago is a hot spot for biodiversity and endemism. Whereas popular groups such as birds and plants are well-studied, invertebrate groups such as ostracods remain ill-known. Here, Caledromus robinsmithi gen. et sp. nov. is described from a single locality on ‘Grande Terre’, the main island of the archipelago. The new genus belongs to the Psychrodromini, one of the four tribes in the subfamily Herpetocypridinae (family Cyprididae). Caledromus gen. nov. can be distinguished from all other herpetocypridinids by a combination of the following factors: the absence of marginal septa in both valves, the mildly developed marginal valve structures, the small Rome organ on the A1, the total reduction of the five natatory setae on the A2, the rectangular second palp segment of the Mx1, the broad and asymmetrical palp on the female T1, the absence of additional postlabyrinthal coils in the Hp and the seta Sp of the CR which is a fixed spine. Because of the close similarity to the genus Psychrodromus, the new genus is thought to have Palaearctic affinities, contrary to other ostracod species in New Caledonia, which are either circumtropical or with Australian zoogeographical connections.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿Two new species of the genus Samarangopus and the first record of Eurypauropus japonicus (Arthropoda, Myriapoda, Pauropoda, Eurypauropodidae) from China
Two new species, Samarangopus testudineus sp. nov. from Hunan, South China and S. rotundifolius sp. nov. from Zhejiang, East China, are described and illustrated. Samarangopus testudineus sp. nov. is characterized by unusual testudinal patterns on the dorsal side of the body and well-differentiated marginal protuberances on tergites. Samarangopus rotundifolius sp. nov. features large, round, leaf-shaped marginal protuberances and small, candle-like dorsal protuberances on tergites. Both of these species are compared to similar species in detail. In addition, Eurypauropus japonicus Hagino & Scheller, 1985 is newly recorded from China.
["Hunan"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿Diversification deep in the heart of Texas: seven new grasshopper species and establishment of the Melanoplus discolor species group (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Melanoplinae)
Melanoplus discolor and Melanoplus kendalli were previously placed in the texanus species group. Here seven new species are described from central Texas and the combined nine species placed into the discolor group based on emergence time and shape of the male terminalia and genital structures. Six of these new species are from the Edwards Plateau, a known area of high endemism. Species of the discolor group are inhabitants of shortgrass or mixed-grass prairies, Ashe juniper or oak savannas.
["Balcones Escarpment"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Baiyuerius gen. nov., a new genus of Coelotinae (Araneae, Agelenidae) spiders from China and Vietnam
Baiyuerius gen. nov., a new genus of the subfamily Coelotinae F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1893 is described, including five new species: B. daxi sp. nov. (♀), B. pindong sp. nov. (♂), B. tamdao sp. nov. (♀), B. zhuping sp. nov. (♂) and B. zuojiang sp. nov. (♂♀), from southern China and northern Vietnam. Our molecular phylogenetic analyses support Baiyuerius gen. nov. as monophyletic and as a sister group of the newly established genus Yunguirius Li, Zhao & Li, 2023.

﻿Two new genera and five new species of Corinnidae Karsch, 1880 (Arachnida, Araneae) from China and Vietnam
Six species of the family Corinnidae Karsch, 1880 are described from China and Vietnam. Fengzhen gen. nov. is erected to accommodate F. mengla sp. nov. (♂♀) from China; Peng gen. nov. is erected to accommodate P. birmanicus (Thorell, 1897), comb. nov., P. borneensis (Yamasaki, 2017), comb. nov. and P. taprobanicus (Simon, 1897), comb. nov., transferred from Sphecotypus O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1895. Further new species described include Allomedmassa tamdao sp. nov. (♂), Echinax baisha sp. nov. (♂), Medmassa lingshui sp. nov. (♂), and Spinirta shaoguan sp. nov. (♂). The male of P. birmanicus is described for the first time.
["biodiversity"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Entyposis frici (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae), a new species from Somaliland
Entyposis frici Bezděk & Sehnal, sp. nov., from Somaliland is described and relevant diagnostic characters are illustrated. The new species is compared with the morphologically closely similar Entyposis Kolbe, 1894 species. An updated checklist and an identification key to northeastern African Entyposis species are provided.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

﻿A new species of the Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus group (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Tak Province, northwestern Thailand
An integrative taxonomic analysis was used to delimit and diagnose a new species of the Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus group from Tak Province in western Thailand. Although Bayesian phylogenetic analyses place C. denticulatus sp. nov. within the brevipalmatus group, the new species is neither nested within nor is it the sister species of any other species in the brevipalmatus group. Furthermore, based on the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (ND2) and adjacent tRNAs, it bears an uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence of 7.87–21.94% from all other species in the brevipalmatus group. Cyrtodactylus denticulatus sp. nov. is differetiated from all other species in the brevipalmatus group by having a number of unique charateristics such as denticulate ventrolateral body folds and ventrolateral subcaudal ridges, characters not seen in any other species of the group (n = 51 individuals). Additionally, based on a multiple factor anlaysis, C. denticulatus sp. nov. does not overlap with any other species in multivariate space. The discovery of C. denticulatus sp. nov. underscores the unrealized diversity of upland ecosystems across Thailand and the urgent need for increased exploration and conservation of these unique imperiled montane refugia, especially in this era of climate change.

﻿Review of the pill millipede genus Hyperglomeris Silvestri, 1917 (Diplopoda, Glomerida, Glomeridae) with description of two new species from Laos
The pill millipede genus Hyperglomeris Silvestri, 1917 is reported from Laos for the first time. Two new species, namely H. bicaudata Likhitrakarn, sp. nov. and H. inkhavilayi Likhitrakarn, sp. nov., from Houaphanh and Khammouane provinces, northern Laos, are described and illustrated based on morphological characters and molecular analyses. Sequences of COI gene were used as DNA barcoding markers, and successfully supported the accurate identification of other Glomeridae species. Interspecific divergence of the COI uncorrected p-distance between these new species and other Hyperglomeris species ranged from 7.84–13.07%, while the intraspecific divergence was 0.45% in H. inkhavilayi sp. nov. and 5.3% in H. bicaudata sp. nov. The updated status of Hyperglomeris, a map of its distribution, and identification keys for all species are given.
["Distribution map"]

﻿Molecular species delimitation and description of a new species of Phenacogaster (Teleostei, Characidae) from the southern Amazon basin
Phenacogaster is the most species-rich genus of the subfamily Characinae with 23 valid species broadly distributed in riverine systems of South America. Despite the taxonomic diversity of the genus, little has been advanced about its molecular diversity. A recent molecular phylogeny indicated the presence of undescribed species within Phenacogaster that is formally described here. We sampled 73 specimens of Phenacogaster and sequenced the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene in order to undertake species delimitation analyses and evaluate their intra- and interspecific genetic diversity. The results show the presence of 14 species, 13 of which are valid and one undescribed. The new species is known from the tributaries of the Xingu basin, the Rio das Mortes of the Araguaia basin, and the Rio Teles Pires of the Tapajós basin. It is distinguished by the incomplete lateral line, position of the humeral blotch near the pseudotympanum, and shape of the caudal-peduncle blotch. Meristic data and genetic differentiation relative to other Phenacogaster species represent strong evidence for the recognition of the new species and highlight the occurrence of an additional lineage of P. franciscoensis.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

﻿A revision of the Chilean water penny genus Tychepsephus Waterhouse, 1876 (Coleoptera, Psephenidae, Eubriinae), with description of a second species and two larval morphotypes, and notes on other Chilean Psephenidae
The Chilean water penny genus Tychepsephus Waterhouse, 1876 is revised, with descriptions and photographic illustrations of life stages including two larval morphotypes, the pupa of one morphotype, and adults of two species. The pupa of Tychepsephus has not been reported previously. Tychepsephus cekalovici sp. nov. is described, and Ectopria (Chilectopria) grandis Pic, 1947, syn. nov. is proposed as a new synonym of Tychepsephus felix Waterhouse, 1876, which is redescribed. Taxonomic treatment of the adults of both species includes images of the habitus of males and females, morphological variation, and male and female genitalia. Males and females are sexually dimorphic. Information on the habitat of Tychepsephus is provided and illustrated with photographs, and the known geographic distribution of the two species is mapped. The occurrence of Tychepsephus in Argentina is reported; therefore, the genus no longer can be considered endemic to Chile. The taxonomic status and geographic distribution in South America of other species of Psephenidae, particularly members of the subfamily Eubriinae, is reviewed.
["Aquatic beetles"]

﻿Two new species of Dixonius from Vietnam and Laos with a discussion of the taxonomy of Dixonius (Squamata, Gekkonidae)
Integrated analyses using maximum likelihood (ML), Bayesian inference (BI), principal component analysis (PCA), discriminate analysis of principal components (DAPC), multiple factor analysis (MFA), and analysis of variance (ANOVA) recovered two new diagnosable species of gekkonid lizards in the genus Dixonius, one from the Central Highlands, Gia Lai Province, Vietnam and another from the Vientiane Province, Laos. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (ND2) and adjacent tRNAs showed that Dixonius gialaiensis sp. nov. is the sister species of D. minhlei from Dong Nai Province, Vietnam and is nested within a clade that also includes the sister species D. siamensis and D. somchanhae. Dixonius muangfuangensis sp. nov. is the sister species to D. lao from Khammouane Province, Laos and is embedded in a clade with D. vietnamensis, D. taoi, and undescribed species from Thailand. Multivariate (PCA, DAPC, and MFA) and univariate (ANOVA) analyses using combinations of 15 meristic (scale counts), six morphometric (measurements), and five categorical (color pattern and morphology) characters from 44 specimens encompassing all eight species of Dixonius from Vietnam and Laos clearly illustrate Dixonius gialaiensis sp. nov. and Dixonius muangfuangensis sp. nov. are statistically different and discretely diagnosable from all closely related species of Dixonius. These integrative analyses also highlight additional taxonomic issues that remain unresolved within Dixonius and the need for additional studies. The discovery of these new species further emphasizes the underappreciated herpetological diversity of the genus Dixonius and illustrates the continued need for field work in these regions.
["Gekkota"]

﻿Tapeworms (Platyhelminthes, Cestoda) from marine chondrichthyans of the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean, and the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic islands: a checklist
A parasite-host list of cestodes parasitizing chondrichthyans in the Southwest Atlantic off Argentina and surrounding waters of Antarctica is compiled based on the available literature. The list is based on published descriptions and redescriptions of species, and newly collected worms during the current study. A total of 57 valid species belonging to 28 genera of the orders Cathetocephalidea, Diphyllidea, Gyrocotylidea, Lecanicephalidea, Onchoproteocephalidea, Phyllobothriidea, Rhinebothriidea, “Tetraphyllidea”, and Trypanorhyncha is listed. Information on hosts, localities, specimens in collections and comments on tapeworms are also included. A host-parasite list including chimaeras (1 order, 1 genus), batoids (4 orders, 10 genera), and sharks (3 orders, 5 genera) is provided. Tapeworm diversity, distribution range, and host associations are discussed. The cestodes orders Phyllobothriidea and Rhinebothriidea exhibit the highest species richness, with 13 and 12 species, respectively. Onchoproteocephalideans and rhinebothriideans have the broadest geographic distribution in the study area. Regarding hosts, arhynchobatid skates are the group most frequently associated with cestodes. However, further collecting efforts are necessary to understand whether this data reflect the real diversity and host association of these parasites or is a result of a bias in sampling.
["Batoids"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿Description of the male of Erromyrma Bolton & Fisher, 2016 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The male of the myrmicine genus Erromyrma is described for the first time on the basis of two specimens of Erromyrma latinodis (Mayr, 1872) collected in northern Madagascar. We used COI barcoding to confirm the identification of the male specimens as conspecific with Erromyrma latinodis. We provide an illustrated male-based key to the four Myrmicinae tribes (Attini, Crematogastrini, Solenopsidini, Stenammini) and to the Solenopsidini genera (Adelomyrmex, Erromyrma, Solenopsis, Syllophopsis and Monomorium) for the Malagasy region.
["Erromyrma"]

﻿New species of the dancing semislug Cryptosemelus Collinge, 1902 (Eupulmonata, Ariophantidae) from Loei Province, northeastern Thailand with a key to genera of mainland Southeast Asian semislugs and a key to species of the genus
In this study, we describe a new dancing semislug from a limestone hill area in northeastern Thailand. Cryptosemelus niger sp. nov. differs from the three recognized congener species from western and southern Thailand, due to differences in their body and shell lobes coloration, appearance of penial caecum, shape and surface texture of penis and epiphallus, and radula formula and morphology.
["Genital system"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

﻿Six new species of Diostracus Loew (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) from Tibet
Six species of Diostracus from Tibet are described as new to science: D. concavus sp. nov., D. fasciculatus sp. nov., D. laetus sp. nov., D. polytrichus sp. nov., D. strenus sp. nov., and D. translucidus sp. nov. A key to the species from Tibet of the genus is provided. The distribution of the genus in Tibet is also discussed.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Review and guide to the isopods (Crustacea, Isopoda) of littoral and sublittoral marine habitats in the Southern California Bight
The isopod crustaceans reported from or expected to occur in littoral and sublittoral marine habitats of the Southern California Bight (SCB) in the northeastern Pacific Ocean are reviewed. A total of 190 species, representing 105 genera in 42 families and six suborders are covered. Approximately 84% of these isopods represent described species with the remaining 16% comprising well-documented “provisional” but undescribed species. Cymothoida and Asellota are the most diverse of the six suborders, accounting for ca. 36% and 29% of the species, respectively. Valvifera and Sphaeromatidea are the next most speciose suborders with between 13–15% of the species each, while the suborder Limnorioidea represents fewer than 2% of the SCB isopod fauna. Finally, the mostly terrestrial suborder Oniscidea accounts for ca. 5% of the species treated herein, each which occurs at or above the high tide mark in intertidal habitats. A key to the suborders and superfamilies is presented followed by nine keys to the SCB species within each of the resultant groups. Figures are provided for most species. Bathymetric range, geographic distribution, type locality, habitat, body size, and a comprehensive list of references are included for most species.
["Baja California"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

﻿Evidence using morphology, molecules, and biogeography clarifies the taxonomic status of mole crabs of the genus Emerita Scopoli, 1777 (Anomura, Hippidae) and reveals a new species from the western Atlantic
Uncertainties regarding the taxonomic status and biogeographical distribution of some species of the genus Emerita from the western Atlantic led to thorough examination of the subtle morphological differences between two coexistent species (E. brasiliensis Schmitt, 1935 and E. portoricensis Schmitt, 1935) along the Brazilian coast and compare them using two genetic markers. The molecular phylogenetic analysis based on sequences of the 16S rRNA and COI genes showed that individuals identified as E. portoricensis were clustered into two clades: one containing representatives from the Brazilian coast and another containing specimens distributed in Central America. Our molecular-based phylogeny, combined with a detailed morphological analysis, revealed the Brazilian population as a new species, which is described here as Emerita almeidai Mantelatto & Balbino, sp. nov. The number of species in the genus Emerita is now raised to 12, with five of them occurring in the western Atlantic, five in the Indo-Pacific, and two in the eastern Pacific.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Confirmation of the existence of Himalayan long-eared bats, Plecotus homochrous (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae), in China
The existence of Himalayan long-eared bats, Plecotus homochrous (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae), in China has not been previously confirmed. In this study, four bats captured with harp traps from two sites in the Maoershan National Nature Reserve in Guangxi, China were investigated. These bats have long, wide auricles, each with a prominent tragus. The length of each auricle is about the same as that of a forearm. Hairs on the ventral fur have a dark base with mixed grey and yellowish tips; those on the dorsal fur also have a dark base and are bicolored with brown tips. The thumbs are very short. A concavity is present in the front of the dorsal side of the cranium. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogeny using Cyt b gene sequences, these bats were identified as P. homochrous, thus confirming the existence of Himalayan long-eared bats in China.
["cyt b gene"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview"]

﻿A remarkable new species of the genus Psammoecus Latreille (Coleoptera, Silvanidae) from Lord Howe Island, Australia
A new species, Psammoecus lordhowensis sp. nov., is described from Lord Howe Island, Australia. The new species is brachypterous and most likely endemic to the island. This species is distinct and can be distinguished by the following morphological characters: body rounded and convex; eyes small; temples well developed; lateral pronotal teeth absent; and hind wing strongly reduced.
["Brachyptery"]

﻿On five new species of the genera Araneus and Hypsosinga (Araneae, Araneidae) from Vietnam
Five new species of the spider family Araneidae Clerck, 1757 from Vietnam are described: Araneus eugenei sp. nov. (♂♀), A. ethani sp. nov. (♀), A. liami sp. nov. (♂♀), Hypsosinga ryani sp. nov. (♂♀), and H. zioni sp. nov. (♀). Diagnostic photographs of the habitus and copulatory organs are provided. Types of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing, China.

﻿A revision of the genus Trichohoplorana Breuning, 1961 (Arthropoda, Insecta, Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Acanthocinini)
A taxonomic revision of the genus Trichohoplorana Breuning, 1961 is presented. A junior synonym of Trichohoplorana, Ipochiromima Sama & Sudre, 2009, syn. nov., is proposed. A junior synonym of T. dureli Breuning, 1961, I. sikkimensis (Breuning, 1982), syn. nov., is proposed. Trichohoplorana is newly recorded from Vietnam. A new species, T. nigeralba sp. nov. is described from Vietnam. Trichohoplorana luteomaculata Gouverneur, 2016 is newly recorded from China and Vietnam. Hind wings and male terminalia of T. luteomaculata are described for the first time. Trichohoplorana is redescribed, and a key to Trichohoplorana species is presented.
["Hind wings"]

﻿On four new species of the orb-weaver spider genus Araneus Clerck, 1757 (Araneae, Araneidae) from southern China
Four new species of Araneus Clerck, 1757 from southern China are described: A. mayanghe Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Guizhou, A. shiwandashan Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Guangxi, and A. zhoui Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Hainan are assigned to the A. sturmi group, and A. fenzhi Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Hunan, Guizhou and Jiangxi is not assigned to any species group. A new combination is also proposed: Aoaraneus octumaculalus (Han & Zhu, 2010) comb. nov.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿The complete mitochondrial genome of Aeschrocoris tuberculatus and A. ceylonicus (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Aeschrocoris tuberculatus and A. ceylonicus (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae, Pentatominae) are mainly distributed in southern China, India, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. Both species are also common agricultural pests. However, only the morphology of the genus Aeschrocoris has previously been studied, and molecular data have been lacking. In this study, the whole mitochondrial genomes of A. tuberculatus and A. ceylonicus are and annotated. The lengths of the complete mitochondrial genomes of the two species are 16,134 bp and 16,142 bp, respectively, and both contain 37 typical genes, including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), and a control region. The mitochondrial genome structure, gene order, nucleotide composition, and codon usage of A. tuberculatus and A. ceylonicus are consistent with those of typical Pentatomidae. Most PCGs of both species use ATN as the start codon, except atp8, nad1, and cox1, which use TTG as the start codon. cox1, cox2, and atp6 use a single T, and nad1 use TAG as the stop codon; the remaining PCGs have TAA as the stop codon. The A+T contents of the two species are 73.86% and 74.08%, respectively. All tRNAs have a typical cloverleaf structure, with the exception of trnS1, which lacks a dihydrouridine arm. The phylogenetic tree is reconstructed using the maximum-likelihood method based on the newly obtained mitochondrial genome sequences and 87 existing mitochondrial genomes of Pentatomoidea from the NCBI database and two species of Lygaeoidea as outgroups. The phylogenetic trees strongly support the following relationships: (Urostylididae + ((Acanthosomatidae + ((Cydnidae + (Dinidoridae + Tessaratomidae)) + (Scutelleridae + Plataspidae))) + Pentatomidae). This study enriches the mitochondrial genome database of Pentatomoidea and provides a reference for further phylogenetic studies.
["Mitogenome"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "RNA and protein synthesis mechanisms"]

﻿A new Neotropical ant species of genus Linepithema Mayr (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Dolichoderinae) with partial revision of the L. fuscum group based on males
The genus Linepithema was erected by Mayr (1866) for his male-based species L. fuscum. In this study a new species is described also based on male morphology, L. paulistana sp. nov., collected in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, which is attributed to the fuscum group (Formicidae: Dolichoderinae). Linepithema paulistana sp. nov. is the only species of fuscum group present in the eastern part of South America. It is easily distinguishable from the other species of the group because of the presence of a triangular volsellar tooth, which is distally situated between the digitus and the basivolsellar process. By using SEM and optical microscopy, the external genitalia of L. paulistana sp. nov. were analyzed and illustrated and some characters and previous interpretations have been re-evaluated in the Linepithema fuscum group. The male external genitalia are also comparatively analyzed in three species representative of the three Linepithema species groups, those of fuscum, humile, and neotropicum. The present work confirms that the morphological characters of male ants, especially those of male external genitalia, are effective for the identification of genera or species. Given the discrete morphological differences between the external genitalia of the fuscum group and the other species of this genus, a re-evaluation of the generic status of Linepithema is suggested.
["External genitalia"]

﻿Adult morphology and redescription of Lestidiops indopacificus (Ege, 1953), with comments on the features of related species (Teleostei, Aulopiformes, Paralepididae)
Two specimens representing the first known adults of Lestidiops indopacificus (Ege, 1953) are reported and described from Taiwan, and the validity and generic assignment of this species are confirmed. The origin of the pelvic fin directly below the dorsal-fin base shows that L. indopacificus belongs to the L. mirabilis species complex. It can be separated from its congeners by the position of the nostrils above the posterior end of the maxilla, the light body color with unevenly distributed melanophores in adults, and a distinct combination of meristic values and other morphological characteristics. New geographic records are reported for the two other current members of this species complex, L. mirabilis (Ege, 1933) and L. extremus (Ege, 1953). The diagnostic features that separate these three very similar species are discussed.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

﻿Description of a new montane freshwater crab (Arthropoda, Malacostraca, Decapoda, Potamonautidae) from the Eastern Cape, South Africa
A new species of freshwater crab, Potamonautes amathole sp. nov., is described from the Winterberg-Amathole mountain range in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Morphologically, P. amathole Peer & Gouws, sp. nov. most closely resembles P. tuerkayi but can be distinguished by key morphological characters including the variation in the shape of the subterminal segment of gonopod 2 between both species. Genetically, P. amathole Peer & Gouws, sp. nov. is placed within the clade of small-bodied, mountain-dwelling crabs including P. parvispina, P. parvicorpus, P. brincki, P. tuerkayi, P. baziya, and P. depressus. The new species is found in slow-moving mountain streams and pools at high altitudes. The continued discovery and description of new freshwater crab species reinforces the need for ongoing research, especially in under-sampled regions.
["Afrotropical Region"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Two new Palaearctic species of Xynobius Foerster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Opiinae)
Two new and very similar species of the genus Xynobius Foerster, 1863 are described and illustrated, X. subparallelus Han & van Achterberg, sp. nov. from Japan (Honshu) and X. setosiscutum van Achterberg, sp. nov. from Norway. Three species are newly reported from Norway: Xynobius aciculatus (Thomson, 1895), X. comatus (Wesmael, 1835), and X. polyzonius (Wesmael, 1835). X. polyzonius (Wesmael, 1835) and X. sapporanus (Fischer, 1963) are new combinations. Identification keys to the Xynobius species known from Norway and Japan are added.
["Japan"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿Two new species of crab spiders from Xiaolong Mountains in Gansu Province, China (Araneae, Thomisidae)
Two new species of crab spider are described from the Xiaolong Mountains in Gansu Province, China: Ebelingia spirala sp. nov. (♂♀) and Lysiteles longensis sp. nov. (♂♀). Detailed morphological characters, a distribution map, photographs, and illustrations of the habitus and copulatory organs are given for each species.
["Ebelingia"]

﻿Further notes on the taxonomy of the land snail family Clausiliidae Gray, 1855 (Stylommatophora, Helicina) from Myanmar with description of two new species
This study presents a complete species list of the door snails inhabiting Myanmar, updated to now include 33 taxa, and provides taxonomic notes together with a re-description of the shell, radula, and genitalia for 13 species and subspecies, including Oospira philippiana, the type species of the genus Oospira. The snails previously treated as subspecies or synonyms of Oospira gracilior and Oospira magna are reclassified and recognized as distinct species. The lectotype of Oospira insignis has been clarified and an illustration of the original type specimen provided. A long-overlooked species, Oospira andersoniana, has been collected and redescribed herein. Two new species from the limestone karsts in the Salween River Basin are introduced: Oospira luneainopsis Man & Panha, sp. nov. and Oospira zediopsis Man & Panha, sp. nov. A synoptic view of all clausiliid taxa known from Myanmar is presented along with taxonomic information and distributional records. Photographs of the type materials for all taxa are provided for further comparison or, if unavailable, photographs of the examined specimens or the original figure from the literature.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Systematic notes on three new Luthela (Mesothelae, Heptathelidae) spiders from China, with their descriptions
Three new segmented trapdoor spider species belonging to the family Heptathelidae Kishida, 1923, i.e., Luthela asuka sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan), L. beijing sp. nov. (♂♀, Beijing), and L. kagami sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan), are described from China. Their phylogenetic position and relationships within Heptathelidae are tested and assessed using a combination available COI data downloaded from GenBank with new DNA sequences obtained in this study. The results show that the new species form a clade with eight known and one undescribed species of Luthela. High-definition illustrations of the male palps and female genitalia, diagnoses, and DNA barcodes are provided for these three new species, and their distributions are mapped.
["Burrowing spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Two new species of Sinopoda from China, with first description of the male of S. horizontalis Zhong, Cao & Liu, 2017 (Araneae, Sparassidae)
Three species of spider genus Sinopoda Jäger, 1999 are reported from southern China. Two of them are described as new to science: S. guiyang Zhang, Yu & Zhong, sp. nov. and S. xishui Zhang, Yu & Zhong, sp. nov., both from Guizhou Province. The male of S. horizontalis Zhong, Cao & Liu, 2017 is described for the first time based on new material from the type locality, Wuyishan National Nature Reserve, Fujian Province, China. Detailed descriptions, diagnoses, photographs and a distribution map of the three species are provided.
["Huntsman spider"]

﻿A new species of Pseudopoda (Araneae, Sparassidae) from China, with the description of different and distinctive internal ducts of the female vulva
One new species of the genus Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000, Pseudopoda deformis Gong & Zhong, sp. nov. (♂, ♀), is described and documented with digital images from Shennongjia Forestry District, Hubei Province, China, based on morphology and DNA barcodes. This new species is separated from other Pseudopoda species by the unique type of internal ducts of the female vulva that are curved longitudinally, forming a narrow triangle or trapezoidal shape. In addition, DNA barcodes for this species are provided.

﻿Two new thomisid species (Arachnida, Araneae, Thomisidae) from China and Vietnam, with the first descriptions of the males of Borboropactus longidens Tang & Li, 2010 and Stephanopis xiangzhouica Liu, 2022
Collections of thomisid spiders by amateur and professional arachnologists in China have led to the discovery of some interesting crab spiders (Thomisidae). Two new species in two genera of thomisid spiders are described and illustrated with photographs and SEMs: Pharta xizang Liu & Yao, sp. nov. (♀) and Stephanopis qiong Liu & Yao, sp. nov. (♀). The previously unknown males of Borboropactus longidens Tang & Li, 2010 and Stephanopis xiangzhouica Liu, 2022 were also collected and are described for the first time. The genus Borboropactus Simon, 1884 is reported for the first time from Vietnam. The new Stephanopis species is also recorded for only the second time from the Asian mainland. Distributions of all these species are mapped.
["Crab spider"]

﻿A review of Microdytes J. Balfour-Browne, 1946 from Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia with descriptions of five new species and new records (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
The diving beetle genus Microdytes J. Balfour-Browne, 1946 in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia is reviewed, and five new species are described: Microdytes eliasi Wewalka & Okada, sp. nov. (Thailand, Cambodia), M. jeenthongi Okada & Wewalka, sp. nov. (Thailand), M. maximiliani Wewalka & Okada, sp. nov. (Laos, China), M. sekaensis Okada & Wewalka, sp. nov. (Thailand, Laos), M. ubonensis Okada & Wewalka, sp. nov. (Thailand, Laos). Two species are the first country records: M. balkei Wewalka, 1997 (Laos, Cambodia) and M. wewalkai Bian & Ji, 2009 (Laos). For 12 and 8 species, the first provincial records from Thailand and Laos, respectively, are given. A checklist, a key to the 25 known Microdytes species from these countries, and habitus images and illustrations of diagnostic characters are provided. Distribution maps of the recorded species are presented, and species distribution patterns are also briefly discussed.
["Diving beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Description of a new nematode species, Chromadorina communis sp. nov. (Nematoda, Chromadoridae), from Changdao Island, China and phylogenetic analysis of Chromadorida based on small subunit rRNA gene sequences
Chromadorina communis sp. nov. is described from Changdao Island at the confluence of the Yellow and the Bohai seas. The new species is characterized by its medium-sized body; finely striated cuticle with homogeneous punctations; absence of ocelli; buccal cavity with three equal-sized, solid teeth; four cephalic setae; oval amphidial fovea which is positioned between cephalic setae; curved spicules with tapered distal ends; simple, boat-shaped gubernaculums; five or six cup-shaped precloacal supplements; and conical tail with a very short spinneret. A phylogenetic analysis of small subunit rRNA gene sequences using maximum-likelihood and Bayesin inference confirmed the taxonomic position of Chromadorina communis sp. nov. within Chromadorinae. Tree topology in Chromadorida shows six morphological families clustered into a monophyletic clade and verifies the taxonomic position of the family Neotonchidae based on morphological and molecular analysis.
["Chromadorida"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿Yunguirius gen. nov., a new genus of Coelotinae (Araneae, Agelenidae) spiders from southwest China
A new genus of the subfamily Coelotinae F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1893, Yunguirius gen. nov. is described, comprising two new species and three species previously described in Draconarius Ovtchinnikov, 1999, all from southwest China: Y. duoge sp. nov. (♀), Y. xiangding sp. nov. (♀), Y. ornatus (Wang, Yin, Peng & Xie, 1990) comb. nov. (♂♀) (the type species of Yunguirius gen. nov.), Y. subterebratus (Zhang, Zhu & Wang, 2017) comb. nov. (♀), and Y. terebratus (Peng & Wang, 1997) comb. nov. (♂♀). Molecular analyses support Yunguirius gen. nov. as a monophyletic group, with the Sinodraconarius clade as its sister group: Yunguirius gen. nov. + (Hengconarius + (Nuconarius + Sinodraconarius)).

﻿Caribbean Amphipoda (Crustacea) of Panama. Part I: parvorder Oedicerotidira
Amphipods in the parvorder Oedicerotidira are burrowers, furrowers, or surface skimmers. Members of the parvorder share a well-developed posteroventral lobe on coxa 4, an equilobate coxa 5, an immensely elongate pereopod 7 that differs in structure from pereopod 6, and an entire telson. Within the parvorder, only the family Oedicerotidae has been documented from Bocas del Toro, Panama, represented by two species. This research documents a range extension for Hartmanodes nyei (Shoemaker, 1933) and describes a new species of Synchelidium Sars, 1892. An identification key to the species of Caribbean Oedicerotidae of Panama is provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Diversity of flesh flies (Sarcophagidae, Sarcophaginae) of pond habitats in rural areas in the Croatian part of Baranja
The diversity of grey flesh flies (Sarcophagidae: Sarcophaginae) from the Croatian part of Baranja was studied during 2019 to 2021, resulting in 37 species, of which the following are new for the area: Ravinia pernix (Harris, 1780); Sarcophaga (Het.) depressifrons Zetterstedt, 1845; S. (Het.) filia Rondani, 1860; S. (Het.) haemorrhoides Böttcher, 1913; S. (Het.) pumila Meigen, 1826; S. (Het.) vagans Meigen, 1826; S. (Lis.) dux Thomson, 1869; S. (Lis.) tuberosa Pandellé, 1896; S. (Meh.) sexpunctata (Fabricius, 1805); S. (Pan.) protuberans Pandellé, 1896; S. (Sar.) carnaria (Linnaeus, 1758); S. (Sar.) variegata (Scopoli, 1763), and S. (Pse.) spinosa Villeneuve, 1912. New locality records are provided for 25 species. Sarcophaga (Sar.) croatica Baranov, 1941 was the most abundant with 37%, followed by S. (Sar.) lehmanni Müller, 1922 (21%), and S. (Pas.) albiceps Meigen, 1826 (5%), making up 63% of all collected specimens. Most species (35) were collected in locality of Zmajevac, while the fewest (3) were collected in Bilje locality. During this study, S. (Pse.) spinosa was recorded in Croatia for the first time. Combined with previous records, 42 species of flesh flies have been recorded from Croatian Baranja, which comprise 27% of the flesh flies known to occur in Croatia. The total number of species of the family Sarcophagidae currently known in Croatia has increased to 156.
["Baranja"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

﻿Molecular characterisation of three Ixodes (Pholeoixodes) species (Ixodida, Ixodidae) and the first record of Ixodes (Pholeoixodes) kaiseri from Slovakia
A study of ticks on wildlife was carried out in the area of Levice, Bratislava, Stupava, and Vrbovce (south-western Slovakia) during 2021 and 2022. Overall, 512 ticks were collected from 51 individuals of six wild mammalian species. Eight tick species were identified, namely Dermacentor reticulatus, D. marginatus, Haemaphysalis inermis, H. concinna, Ixodes ricinus, I. hexagonus, and two Ixodes spp. Ixodes hexagonus were collected from northern white-breasted hedgehogs (Erinaceus roumanicus), females belonging to Ixodes spp. were collected from red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and nymphs from European badger (Meles meles). Ixodes hexagonus and the Ixodes spp. were identified morphologically and molecularly based on sequences of fragments of two mitochondrial genes, COI and 16S rRNA. Molecular analysis of Ixodes spp. confirmed the identity of Ixodes kaiseri Arthur, 1957 and I. canisuga (Johnston, 1849). Sequence analyses show that the I. kaiseri isolate from Slovakia is identical to I. kaiseri isolates from Romania, Poland, Germany, Turkey, and Croatia. We demonstrate for the first time the presence of I. kaiseri in Slovakia using both morphological and molecular methods.
["European badger"]
["Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Rabies epidemiology and control", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

﻿Opacoptera Gozmány (Lepidoptera, Lecithoceridae) from China, with descriptions of four new species
The genus Opacoptera Gozmány, 1978 is reviewed. Four species are described as new: O. condensata sp. nov., O. hybocentra sp. nov., O. introflexa sp. nov. and O. longissima sp. nov. Opacoptera kerastiodes Park, 2021 is newly recorded for China. Images of adults are provided, along with a key to the males of all the known species.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Discovery and redescription of the true Nuvol umbrosus Navás and naming of a new Nuvol species (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae, Leucochrysini)
Examination of a newly discovered specimen of Nuvol showed that our earlier species determination of Nuvol umbrosus Navás had been incorrect and that our “redescription” of the species actually applied to an undescribed species. Here, we redescribe the true N. umbrosus, based on a newly discovered male specimen. This specimen closely resembles Navás’ description, and it was collected from the Atlantic Forest as was the original type specimen. In addition, we assign the previously misidentified Nuvol specimens from the Amazonian region to a separate species, Nuvol satur Sosa & Tauber, sp. nov. As a result of these actions, the genus Nuvol now contains two morphologically and geographically distinct species. In addition, the abdomens and genitalia of both sexes of Nuvol are now described (although each from a separate species).
["Chrysopinae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Food preference strategy of four sympatric rodents in a temperate forest in northeast China
Rodents are well known as both seed predators and dispersers of various plant species in forest ecosystems, and they play an important role in the regeneration of vegetation. Thus, the research on seed selection and vegetation regeneration by sympatric rodents is an interesting topic. To understand the characteristics of preferences of rodents for different seeds, a semi-natural enclosure experiment was performed with four rodent species (Apodemus peninsulae, Apodemus agrarius, Tscherskia triton, and Clethrionomys rufocanus) and the seeds of seven plant species (Pinus koraiensis, Corylus mandshurica, Quercus mongolica, Juglans mandshurica, Armeniaca sibirica, Prunus salicina, and Cerasus tomentosa) to investigate the differentiation in niches and patterns of resource utilization of sympatric rodents. The results showed that all the rodents had consumed many seeds of Pi. koraiensis, Co. mandshurica, and Q. mongolica but differed significantly in how they selected the different seeds. The rate of utilization (Ri) of Pi. koraiensis, Co. mandshurica, and Q. mongolica exhibited the highest values. The Ei values indicated that the rodents tested exhibited differences in their priorities used to select the seeds from different plant species. All four species of rodents exhibited obvious preferences for certain seeds. Korean field mice preferentially consumed the seeds of Q. mongolica, Co. mandshurica, and Pi. koraiensis. Striped field mice favor the seeds of Co. mandshurica, Q. mongolica, P. koraiensis, and Nanking cherry. Greater long-tailed hamsters prefer to consume the seeds of Pi. koraiensis, Co. mandshurica, Q. mongolica, Pr. salicina, and Ce. tomentosa. Clethrionomys rufocanus likes to eat the seeds of Pi. koraiensis, Q. mongolica, Co. mandshurica, and Ce. tomentosa. The results supported our hypothesis that sympatric rodents overlap in food selection. However, each rodent species has a marked preference for food selection, and different rodent species differ in their food preferences. This reflects the role of distinct food niche differentiation in their coexistence.
["Coexistence"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿Using genomics, morphometrics, and environmental niche modeling to test the validity of a narrow-range endemic snail, Patera nantahala (Gastropoda, Polygyridae)
Terrestrial gastropods are among the most imperiled groups of organisms on Earth. Many species have a complex taxonomic history, often including poorly defined subspecies, most of which have not been the focus of modern systematics research. Genomic tools, geometric morphometrics, and environmental niche modeling were used to assess the taxonomic status of Patera clarkii nantahala (Clench & Banks, 1932), a subspecies of high conservation concern with a restricted range of approximately 3.3 km2 in North Carolina, USA. A genome-scale dataset was generated that included individuals with morphologies matching P. c. nantahala, P. c. clarkii, and one individual with an intermediate form between P. c. nantahala and P. c. clarkii that was initially hypothesized as a potential hybrid. Mitochondrial phylogenetics, nuclear species tree inference, and phylogenetic networks were used to assess relationships and gene flow. Differences in shell shape via geometric morphometrics and whether the environmental niches of the two subspecies were significantly different were also examined. Molecular analyses indicated an absence of gene flow among lineages of P. clarkii sensu lato. Analyses rejected our hypothesis that the intermediate shelled form represented a hybrid, but instead indicated that it was a distinct lineage. Environmental niche models indicated significant differences in environmental niche between P. c. clarkii and P. c. nantahala, and geometric morphometrics indicated that P. c. nantahala had a significantly different shell shape. Given multiple lines of evidence, species-level recognition of P. nantahala is warranted.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

﻿Five new species of Bradina Lederer (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) from China, with remarks on the morphology of the genus
Bradina is a species-rich genus that differs from most other Spilomelinae genera because of its distinctive wing venation. Most species of this genus are very similar in appearance. In this study, we have studied morphological characteristics of the genus and eight closely related species from China. Among them, B. falciculata Guo & Du, sp. nov., B. fusoidea Guo & Du, sp. nov., B. spirella Guo & Du, sp. nov., B. ternifolia Guo & Du, sp. nov. and B. torsiva Guo & Du, sp. nov. are described as new to science. Bradina megesalis (Walker, 1859), B. translinealis Hampson, 1896 and B. subpurpurescens (Warren, 1896) are redescribed based on their holotypes and additional material, and the latter two are newly recorded from China and their genitalia are described for the first time. The images of the habitus and genitalia of these eight species are provided, with a key to their identification.
["Genitalia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿A new Bolitoglossa (Amphibia, Caudata, Plethodontidae) from the Cordillera Oriental of Colombia
A new salamander species of the genus Bolitoglossa is here described from the cloud forests of the western slopes of the Cordillera Oriental of Colombia, in the Cundinamarca department. The most salient characters of this new species are its numerous maxillary and vomerine teeth, its moderate webbing on hands and feet, its short and robust tail, and its chromatic variation. Based on molecular analyses this new species is assigned to the adspersa species group and its status established as the sister species of B. adspersa, with which it was previously confused. Lastly, the distribution, natural history, and conservation status of the new species are discussed.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Revision of the genus Atholus Thomson, 1859 (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Histerinae) from the Philippines with additional records
The Philippine species of the genus Atholus Thomson, 1859 are revised and re-examined based on museum as well as freshly collected specimens. Atholus torquatus (Marseul, 1854) is re-described, and SEM micrographs and illustrations of both male and female genitalia are provided. Atholus bakeri (Bickhardt, 1914) and Atholus nitidissimus Desbordes, 1925 are also re-described based on images of syntypes. Atholus pirithous (Marseul, 1873) and A. torquatus (Marseul, 1854) are new to the Philippine archipelago. Atholus coelestis (Marseul, 1857) and A. philippinensis (Marseul, 1854) are provided with diagnostic descriptions and images. A key to the Philippine species is provided.

﻿Description of two new species of Dicranomyia (Erostrata) crane fly (Diptera, Limoniidae) from Korea, with remarks on DNA barcoding and updated taxonomic key
Two new crane fly species, Dicranomyia (Erostrata) jejuensis sp. nov. and D. (E.) koreana sp. nov., from Korea are described on the basis of morphology and mitochondrial COI sequences. DNA barcode sequences for other four D. (Erostrata) species from Korea are also provided for the first time. The identification key for all known D. (Erostrata) species is presented.
["Dicranomyia (Erostrata) jejuensis"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

﻿Three new species of the Clubiona corticalis group (Araneae, Clubionidae) from China
Three new species of the Clubiona corticalis group in China are described: Clubiona bidactylina sp. nov., C. camela sp. nov., and C. subhuiming sp. nov.
["Clubionids"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Description of the first species of Scutigerella (Symphyla, Scutigerellidae) from China, with mitogenomic and genetic divergence analysis
Scutigerella sinensis Jin & Bu, sp. nov. from China is described and illustrated. It is characterized by a deeply emarginated posterior margin of tergite 2, less differentiated marginal setae on all tergites, absence of seta a3 around the antennal base, and 6–8 setae on the first tergite. The complete mitochondrial genome of the new species is also analyzed and compared with the mitogenome of Scutigerella causeyae. In the reconstructed Neighbor-Joining tree based on COI gene sequences, S. sinensis sp. nov. clusters with S. causeyae, however, with big distances. The genetic divergence among S. sinensis sp. nov. and congeners, species of Hanseniella and Scutigerella, and both families of Symphyla was analyzed using COI gene sequences.
["DNA barcode"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿First report of the Afrotropical genus Securiops Jacobus, McCafferty & Gattolliat (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Southeast Asia, with description of a new species
Recent collections in Thailand revealed the occurrence of the genus Securiops in Asia, formerly known from the Afrotropical Realm only. A new species of Securiops is described and illustrated based on larvae and eggs. Eggs of this genus are described for the first time. Morphological differences between the new species and the species from Africa are discussed. The number of species in the genus Securiops is augmented to five.

﻿Taxonomic identity of Distaplia stylifera (Tunicata, Ascidiacea), a new arrival to the eastern Pacific displaying invasive behavior in the Gulf of California, Mexico
A colonial ascidian of the genus Distaplia caused a mass mortality of the pen shell Atrina maura (Sowerby, 1835) during June 2016 in the southwest of the Gulf of California (Mexico), with a significant socio-economic cost. Tentatively identified in previous works as Distaplia cf. stylifera, a precise taxonomic determination was still lacking. In the present work, based on a detailed morphological study, it is confirmed that this aggressive species is Distaplia stylifera (Kowalevsky, 1874). Originally described from the Red Sea, the species currently has a wide circumtropical distribution (with the exception of the Eastern Pacific to date) and is reported as introduced in parts of its range. The present account thus represents an important range extension of this species. However, when revising the original description and later observations, the reported variability of several characters makes it likely that the binomen is in fact a complex of species, as is common in other ascidians with wide distributions. A complete morphological and genetic study including populations from the entire range of distribution would be necessary to settle the status of D. stylifera. Taxonomic uncertainties hinder a correct interpretation of biogeographical patterns and inference on the origin of the studied population. Nevertheless, the known introduction potential of the species, coupled with an explosive growth in an anthropized environment, and the lack of any previous reports in the Eastern Pacific, strongly suggest that the investigated population represents yet another instance of ascidian introduction. From the point of view of management, its invasive behavior is cause for great concern and warrants mitigation measures.
["Ascidian"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Review of the genus Hauptenia Szwedo (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Derbidae), with descriptions of two new species from China
The derbid planthopper genus Hauptenia Szwedo, 2006 is reviewed. Two new species from China, H. beibengensis Sui & Chen, sp. nov. and H. daliensis Sui & Chen, sp. nov., are described and illustrated. A third species, H. tripartita Rahman et al., 2012, is recorded from China for the first time. An updated checklist and identification key to all ten known species of the genus Hauptenia are provided.
["Cedusini"]

﻿A decade of amphibian studies (Animalia, Amphibia) at Sekayu lowland forest, Hulu Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia
Amphibians of Sekayu lowland forest have been studied more than a decade, with discoveries of new records of species showing no sign of abating between the years 2003 to 2020, indicating the remarkably rich diversity of anurans in this forest. Despite ceaseless anthropogenic activities in this area, this study successfully recorded 52 species of amphibians from 32 genera in the lowland forest of Sekayu. The species composition consisted of a single species from the family Ichthyophiidae and 51 species of anurans of 31 genera and six families. The number of species recorded has steadily increased especially during more recent surveys from 2015 to 2020. This study augments the total number of amphibian species recorded from Hulu Terengganu by ten additional species, increasing the total to 70 species for the district.
["Biodiversity conservation"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿New records for the Western Balkans cranefly fauna (Diptera, Tipuloidea) with the description of a new Baeoura Alexander (Diptera, Limoniidae)
The cranefly (Tipuloidea) fauna of the Western Balkans is still poorly known. In this study, occurrence data of 77 species is reported, of which two species are newly recorded for Albania, eight species for Bosnia and Herzegovina, twelve for Croatia, and seven for Slovenia, respectively. A new species, Baeoura neretvaensis Kolcsár & d’Oliveira, sp. nov. is described from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Slovenia. Images of the habitus, wing, and male and female terminalia of the new species are provided. Furthermore, images of male terminalia and wings of thirteen additional species are presented.
["New records"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Two new species of Tmethypocoelis Koelbel, 1897 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Dotillidae) from Sulawesi, Indonesia
Tmethypocoelis Koelbel, 1897, is a central Indo-West Pacific genus of small intertidal, soft sediment dotillid crabs that includes five recognised species. Two new species, Tmethypocoelis simplex sp. nov. and T. celebensis sp. nov., are here described from Sulawesi, Indonesia. Tmethypocoelis simplex sp. nov. is found on the west coast of Central Sulawesi, while T. celebensis sp. nov. occurs in the north-eastern part of Sulawesi. Both new species differ from each other and known congeners by the male cheliped, male pleon, and male first gonopod characters. The differences in gastric mill morphology further confirm the two species as new. The distinct water current patterns in the Makassar Strait and the Maluku Channel might have contributed to the evolution of these two sibling species.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Diversity and larval leaf-mining habits of Japanese jewel beetles of the tribe Tracheini (Coleoptera, Buprestidae)
From the Japanese Archipelago, 12 Habroloma and 20 Trachys species (Buprestidae: Tracheini) have been recorded. Two new Habroloma species were found, which are associated with Elaeocarpaceae and Loranthaceae, also new host plant families/orders for Tracheini. The two new species are described as Habroloma elaeocarpusi sp. nov. and Habroloma taxillusi sp. nov., and the latter is the first Tracheini species shown to be associated with epiphytes. Leaf mines of 31 Tracheini species are also reported in this work, including new records of leaf mines for 16 Tracheini species. The larvae of all these recorded species are full-depth linear-blotch mesophyll miners of mature leaves and pupate within their mines. The mining habits of Habroloma species associated with Symplocos (Symplocaceae) are unique: the young larvae bore into midribs and petioles and cause leaf fall, and the larvae then mine the fallen leaves.
["Agrilinae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Phylogeography of Falagonia mexicana Sharp, 1883 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Falagonia mexicana is an aleocharine distributed from northern Mexico to Guatemala and El Salvador. It is associated with Atta mexicana ants and lives within their piles of waste or external debris. The phylogeography and historical demography of 18 populations from Mexico, Guatemala, and El Salvador were studied. The data set encompasses a 472 bp fragment of the COI. Results suggest that F. mexicana was originated during Middle Pliocene (ca. 0.5 Mya), starting its diversification at the Upper Pleistocene and Holocene. Populations were recovered forming at least four main lineages, with a significant phylogeographic structure. Evidence of contemporary restricted gene flow was found among populations. The historical demography suggests that the geographic structure is due to recent physical barriers (e.g., Isthmus of Tehuantepec) rather than ancient geological events. Also, recent geological and volcanic events in the east of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt and the Sierra Madre Oriental might be responsible for the restricted gene flow among populations. Skyline-plot analyses suggested that a demographic expansion event took place at the end of the Late Quaternary glacial-interglacial cycles.
["Cytochrome oxidase I"]

﻿Re-collected after 55 years: a new species of Bembidion (Coleoptera, Carabidae) from California
A new species of the carabid beetle genus Bembidion Latreille is described from the Central Valley, Los Angeles Basin, and surrounding areas of California. Bembidion brownorum sp. nov. is a distinctive species, a relatively large member of the subgenus Notaphus Dejean, and within Notaphus a member of the B. obtusangulum LeConte species group. It has faint spots on the elytra and a large, convex, rounded prothorax. Of the 22 specimens from 11 localities, all but one were collected more than 55 years ago. Although the collection of the holotype in 2021 at UV light suggest the species is still extant, the lack of other recent specimens suggests the species may have a more restricted distribution than in the past, and its populations may be in decline.
["Bembidiini"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿New records of Nitidulidae (Nitidulidae, Coleoptera) species in Canada, Ontario, and Manitoba
Nitidulidae trapping performed from 2018 to 2021 to characterize flight behaviors of potential vectors of the oak wilt pathogen yielded three new species records for Canada, six new species records for Ontario, and three new species records for Manitoba. The new records for Canada include Carpophilus (Ecnomorphus) corticinus reported from Ontario, C. (Myothorax) nepos reported from Ontario and Manitoba, and Glischrochilus (Librodor) obtusus reported from Ontario. In addition, the following species are first recorded in Ontario: Carpophilus (Ecnomorphus) antiquus, C. (Megacarpolus) sayi, Stelidota coenosa; and also in Manitoba: Carpophilus (Megacarpolus) lugubris and Cychramus adustus. Collection data is provided for the two provinces and national records.
["Bretziella fagacearum"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿Two new host records for Centrodora italica Ferrière (Hymenoptera, Aphelinidae) from eggs of Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera, Ensifera) in northeastern Italy
The egg parasitoid Centrodora italica Ferrière is reported for the first time from sentinel eggs of two species of Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera), Pachytrachis gracilis (Brunner von Wattenwyl) and Eupholidoptera schmidti (Fieber). In Italy, only two hosts of this parasitic wasp are known, one of which is a tettigoniid species. Exposure of sentinel eggs represented a useful method to detect new host associations of this parasitoid species that can search for their host’s eggs in the ground. The parasitoids were identified by comparing our specimens with those of the type series, and the original description of C. italica.
["Aphelinid"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿A new hexactinellid-sponge-associated zoantharian (Porifera, Hexasterophora) from the northwestern Pacific Ocean
Symbiotic associations between zoantharians and sponges can be divided into two groups: those that associate with Demospongiae and those that associate with Hexactinellida. Parachurabana shinseimaruae Kise, gen. nov. et sp. nov., a new genus and a new species of Hexactinellida-associated zoantharian from Japanese waters, is described. It is characterized by a combination of the following: i) its host hexactinellid sponge, ii) very flat polyps, iii) cteniform endodermal marginal muscles, and iv) characteristic mutations in three mitochondrial regions (including a unique 26-bp deletion in 16S ribosomal DNA) and three nuclear regions. Parachurabana shinseimaruae Kise, gen. nov. et sp. nov. is the third genus in the family Parazoanthidae that is reported to be associated with Hexasterophora sponges. Although specimens have so far only been collected on Takuyo-Daigo Seamount off Minami-Torishima Island in Japan, unidentified zoantharians of similar description have been reported from the waters around Australia, indicating that the species might be widespread across the Pacific.
["Glass sponge"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿New species and records of the genus Antocha Osten Sacken (Diptera, Limoniidae) from Tibet, China with a key to species in Qinghai-Tibet region
Thirty-four known species and subspecies of the genus Antocha Osten Sacken, 1860 have been recorded from China, of which four occur in Tibet. Herein, two new Antocha species, A. (Antocha) curvativa sp. nov. and A. (A.) tibetana sp. nov., are described and illustrated from Tibet. The new species are distinguished from congeners mainly by their male genitalia. Antocha (A.) spiralis Alexander, 1932 and A. (A.) setigera Alexander, 1933, which are newly recorded in Tibet, are redescribed and illustrated. A key to Antocha species in the Qinghai-Tibet region of China is also presented.
["Chinese fauna"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Pholcid spiders of the Pholcus phungiformes species-group (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Liaoning Province, China: an overview, with description of a new species
Species of the Pholcus phungiformes group exhibit high diversity in Liaoning Province of northeastern China. This paper summarizes the current knowledge on this species-group from this area. A checklist of 22 species recorded from this province is given, accompanied with a distribution map of the species. Pholcus xiuyan Zhao, Zheng & Yao, sp. nov. (♂♀) is described as new to science, and P. yuhuangshan Yao & Li, 2021 is reported from Liaoning for the first time.

﻿Larissimus nigricans sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), a new reared species of a rare neotropical genus recovered through biodiversity inventory in Ecuador
A new species of the rarely collected neotropical microgastrine braconid wasp genus Larissimus Nixon, represented previously by only a single described species, L. cassander Nixon, was recovered by the Caterpillars and Parasitoids of the Eastern Andes in Ecuador inventory project. Larissimus nigricans sp. nov. was reared from an unidentified species of arctiine Erebidae feeding on the common bamboo species Chusquea scandens Kunth at the Yanayacu Biological Station near Cosanga, Napo Province, Ecuador. The new species is described and diagnosed from L. cassander using both morphological and DNA barcode data.
["Arctiinae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Land snail diversity in central China: revision of Laeocathaica Möllendorff, 1899 (Gastropoda, Camaenidae), with descriptions of seven new species
Central China harbors the native dart-sac-bearing camaenids Laeocathaica. The genus is revised and seven new species are proposed based on museum material and newly collected specimens. This work confirmed that most Laeocathaica species have restricted habitats. The comparison of the dart sac apparatus among the dart-sac-bearing camaenid genera indicated the importance of the presence of the proximal accessory sac that might be analogous to the membranous/muscular sac surrounding the proximal dart sac and/or the distal region of the vagina near the atrium, which also plays a significant role in the diagnosis of Laeocathaica species based on its number, symmetry and position on the dart sac. Species with similar shell morphology were studied using geometric morphometric methods to detect variations in shell shape. A molecular phylogenetic analysis based on 16S and ITS2 sequence data of partial Laeocathaica species and many other dart-sac-bearing taxa suggested that Laeocathaica might be monophyletic. Furthermore, the present phylogeny indicated that Stilpnodiscus, Cathaica, Bradybaena, and Pseudobuliminus might be polyphyletic and therefore the taxonomy of dart-sac-bearing camaenids in this region requires a thorough revision. This work reconfirms that the Southern Gansu Plateau is important as a hotspot for malacodiversity conservation on the Chinese mainland.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Review of the Palaearctic species of Miscogasteriella Girault, 1915 (Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae)
Palaearctic species of the genus Miscogasteriella Girault, 1915 are reviewed. Miscogasteriella olgae sp. nov. from South Korea and M. vladimiri sp. nov. from Japan are described. Type material of M. nigricans (Masi) and M. sulcata (Kamijo) is redescribed and illustrated. Miscogasteriella nigricans is recorded from the Palaearctic region for the first time. An identification key to females of all Palaearctic species of Miscogasteriella is given.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

﻿Three new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Songthela (Mesothelae, Liphistiidae, Heptathelinae) from Hunan Province, China
Three new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Songthela Ono, 2000 are identified and described from Hunan Province, China, based on morphological characters of males and females: S. anhua Zhang & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀), S. longhui Zhang & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀), and S. zhongpo Zhang & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀). All the new Songthela species belong to the multidentata-group according to male palp and female genital morphology.

﻿Trophobiosis between a new species of Acropyga (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) and new Neochavesia (Hemiptera, Xenococcidae) from Peru, and establishment of the Acropyga smithii species-group
We describe a new pair of trophobiotic partners from the ant genus Acropyga and the root mealybug genus Neochavesia. A recent field study on Acropyga ants and associated root mealybugs, conducted in the Peruvian Amazon, led to the discovery of Acropyga manuense LaPolla & Schneider, sp. nov. and its root mealybug symbiont Neochavesia podexuta Schneider & LaPolla, sp. nov. The new root mealybug belongs to the family Xenococcidae, whose members are all obligate associates of Acropyga ants. Providing joint descriptions of new mutualist partners in the same article is a novel approach for this system, and it offers benefits to the ongoing study of mutualism and patterns of association among these symbiotic ants and scales. Here, we also begin to revise the species-group composition of Acropyga by establishing the smithii species-group, and we provide updated information to aid in identifying the new ant species and root mealybug species.

﻿New species, a new combination, and DNA barcodes of Parachironomus Lenz, 1921 (Diptera, Chironomidae)
The genus Parachironomus has a cosmopolitan distribution including 85 valid described species worldwide. Species records and studies of the genus in the Tibetan Plateau are scarce. In this study, the genus Parachironomus from China is revised and two new species, Parachironomus wangi Liu & Lin, sp. nov. and Parachironomus nankaiensis Liu & Lin, sp. nov., are described based on adult morphology and molecular data. Paracladopelma demissum Yan, Wang & Bu is placed in the genus Parachironomus as a new combination. A neighbor-joining tree was reconstructed based on all known Parachironomus COI DNA barcodes. A key to adult males of the genus Parachironomus from China is also provided.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿A new species of Physomerinus Jeannel (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from Jiulong National Wetland Park, China
Physomerinus jiulongensis sp. nov. is described from a series of overwintering individuals collected in decomposing wood at Jiulong National Wetland Park, East China. The new species is characterized and separated from related congeners by the unique form of the sexually dimorphic maxillary palpi, greatly swollen male metafemora, as well as by the shape of the genitalia of both sexes. A key to, and a distributional map of, Physomerinus species occurring in China and on the Ryukyu Islands, Japan is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿A new species of the genus Lindaspio Blake & Maciolek, 1992 (Annelida, Spionidae) from a cold seep near Hainan Island, China
A new species of the spionid genus Lindaspio Blake & Maciolek, 1992 was collected from a cold seep near the Hainan Island at a depth of 1758 m. Morphologically, Lindaspio polybranchiata sp. nov. differs from the congeners in having a narrow, folded caruncle and more neuropodial branchiae (from chaetiger 20). The 18S, COI, and 16S sequences of the new species have been submitted to GenBank. It is the first record of the genus Lindaspio from Chinese waters. A key to all species of Lindaspio is given.
["Cold seep"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Tricosa uniseriata, a new species of xyleborine ambrosia beetle from Thailand (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini)
A new species, Tricosa uniseriata sp. nov., is described here. A list of Tricosa species found in Thailand with distributions and an updated key to Tricosa are also provided.
["Ambrosia beetles"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

﻿Three new species of cave-adapted pseudoscorpions (Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae) from eastern Yunnan, China
Three new cave-adapted chthoniid pseudoscorpions from four karst caves of Yunnan Province (China) are described, including detailed diagnosis and illustrations: Tyrannochthonius calvatus sp. nov. from an unnamed cave and Dongtianfu Cave (Fuyuan County), T. capito sp. nov. from Xianren Cave (Xichou County), and Lagynochthonius daidaiensis sp. nov. from Daidai Cave (Qiubei County). All three species are endemic to Yunnan. Tyrannochthonius calvatus sp. nov., lacking the carapaceal antero-median setae and having intercalary teeth on the movable chelal finger only, is a peculiar chthoniid species.
["Cavernicolous"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Microdous amblyrhynchos sp. nov., a new member of the small-toothed sleepers (Teleostei, Gobiiformes, Odontobutidae) from Guangxi, southern China
Microdous amblyrhynchos, a new species, the second one in the genus, from the family Odontobutidae, is described from the Hongshui River, in the upper reaches of the Xijiang River of the Pearl River drainage, Baise City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China. This species is distinguished from its only congener, M. chalmersi, by the blunt snout (vs. pointed); mean snout length/head length ratio 0.27 (vs. 0.3); eye not extending outward (vs. protruding); mean interorbital width/head length ratio 0.25 (vs. 0.11). Additionally, the results of molecular phylogenetic analysis confirmed that M. amblyrhynchos sp. nov. is distinct from its sister species, M. chalmersi.
["Freshwater sleepers"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿The genus Climaciella Enderlein, 1910 (Neuroptera, Mantispidae) in French Guiana
The genus Climaciella Enderlein, 1910 is a remarkable group of mantidflies (Neuroptera: Mantispidae: Mantispinae) distributed from Canada to Argentina, including parts of the Caribbean. This genus comprises nine valid extant species plus an extinct species from the late Oligocene of France. Species exhibit Batesian mimicry with vespid wasps (Vespidae). Herein, six species of Climaciella from French Guiana are documented. Before this study only C. semihyalina (Le Peletier de Saint Fargeau & Audinet-Serville in Latreille et al. 1825) was known from this territory. Two new species, C. elektroptera Ardila-Camacho, Winterton & Contreras-Ramos, sp. nov. and C. nigriflava Ardila-Camacho, Winterton & Contreras-Ramos, sp. nov., are described as well as the first records of C. amapaensis Penny, 1982, and C. tincta (Navás, 1914) provided from French Guiana. An unknown species recorded from a single female specimen is also presented. Based on the examination of material of C. amapaensis recorded here, a specimen previously recorded from Colombia as belonging to this species is herein proposed as a new species, C. risaraldensis Ardila-Camacho, sp. nov. A taxonomic key and high-resolution images of the species from French Guiana are provided.
["Lacewings"]

﻿A new species of Gracixalus (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from northwestern Vietnam
A new species of small tree frog is described from northwestern Vietnam based on morphological differences and molecular divergence. Gracixalus truongi sp. nov. is distinguishable from its congeners and other small rhacophorid species on the basis of a combination of the following characters: size relatively small, SVL 32.2–33.1 mm in males, 37.6–39.3 mm in females; head slightly wider than long; vomerine teeth absent; snout round and long RL/SVL 0.17–0.19 in males, 0.16–0.17 in females; spines on upper eyelid absent; supratympanic fold distinct; tympanum distinct; dorsal skin smooth; throat smooth and venter granular; tibiotarsal projection absent; webbing of fingers rudimentary, toes with moderately developed webbing; dorsum moss-green, with an inverse Y-shaped dark green marking extended from interorbital region to posterior region of dorsum; external vocal sac absent in males; males with a nuptial pad on finger I. In the molecular analyses, the new species has no clear sister taxon and is at least 4.5% divergent from other congeners based on a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Three new species of the genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 and the discovery of the male of I. linzhiensis Hu, 2001 from Tibet, China (Araneae, Oonopidae)
Four species of the genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 from Tibet, China are recognised, including three new species, I. caoqii sp. nov. (female), I. metok sp. nov. (female), and I. pome sp. nov. (male and female). Males of Ischnothyreus linzhiensis Hu, 2001 are discovered for the first time since its description. Descriptions, diagnoses, and photographs of the four species are provided.

﻿Systematics of Lepidocyrtinus boneti Denis, 1948 (Collembola, Seirinae) reveals a new position for the species within Seirinae
Seira boneti Denis, 1948, comb. nov. is examined and redescribed based on syntypes and by a newly discovered Chinese population. Lectotype and paralectotypes were designated, and the type locality of the species has been fixed to Câuda, near Nhatrang, Vietnam. The species was first described in the genus Lepidocyrtinus, but based on morphological and molecular evidence it is here transferred to Seira. For the phylogenetic placement of Seira boneti comb. nov., its mitogenome was included in a dataset comprising 19 species of Seirinae. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian inferences clustered the species next to Seira sanloemensis Godeiro & Cipola, 2020 from Cambodia, forming a distinct Seira clade from the Old World, confirming the hypothesis of the existence of a different basal lineage of Seirinae in Southern Asia.
["Asian springtails"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

﻿Seven new “cryptic” species of Discodorididae (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Nudibranchia) from New Caledonia
The study of a well-preserved collection of discodorid nudibranchs collected in Koumac, New Caledonia, revealed the presence of seven species new to science belonging to the genera Atagema, Jorunna, Rostanga, and Sclerodoris, although some of the generic assignments are tentative as the phylogeny of Discodorididae remains unresolved. Moreover, a poorly known species of Atagema originally described from New Caledonia is re-described and the presence of Sclerodoris tuberculata in New Caledonia is confirmed with molecular data. All the species described herein are highly cryptic on their food source and in the context of the present study the term “cryptic” is used to denote such species. This paper highlights the importance of comprehensive collecting efforts to identify and document well-camouflaged taxa.
["Molecular phylogenetics"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Discovery of the termitophilous genus Trichopsenius Horn, 1877 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae) from China with description of a new species
The termitophilous genus Trichopsenius Horn, 1877 is recorded from China for the first time. A new species, Trichopsenius huaxiensis sp. nov. is described; it was collected in a nest of the termite genus Reticulitermes Holmgren from a dead and flattened pine tree.
["Guizhou"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Androctonus tihamicus sp. nov. from the Mecca Province, Saudi Arabia (Scorpiones, Buthidae)
We describe and illustrate a new scorpion species, Androctonus tihamicus sp. nov., from the Mecca Province of southwestern Saudi Arabia. The new species is compared to the genus Androctonus Ehrenberg, 1828, which is distributed throughout the Middle East, and especially to A. australis (Linnaeus, 1758). We provide the molecular phylogeny for this species.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿A new species of Aleurolobus Quaintance & Baker, 1914 (Hemiptera, Aleyrodidae) from China infesting Murraya exotica L.
A new whitefly species, Aleurolobus rutae sp. nov., collected on Murraya exotica (Sapindales, Rutaceae) leaves in the Maolan National Nature Reserve, Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. Some of the individuals were infected with Aschersonia placenta, an entomopathogenic fungus. The insect is circular in shape and characterized by a very wide submarginal region, and the submarginal furrow is almost continuous, with only a small break at the caudal furrow. Anterior and posterior marginal setae are absent, but setae are present on the 8th abdominal segment. Thoracic and caudal tracheal folds are discernible.
["Aleyrodinae"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿New records of water mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia) from Portugal revealed by DNA barcoding, with the description of Atractides marizae sp. nov.
This study presents the first results of DNA barcoding of water mites from Portugal. DNA barcodes were recovered from 19 water mite specimens morphologically assigned to eight species, seven of them newly reported from Portugal. Two species, Torrenticola hispanica (Lundblad, 1941) and A. cultellatus (K. Viets, 1930) were discovered more than 80 years after they were first described, and Atractides marizae sp. nov. is described as new for science.
["New records"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿A review of Eupholidoptera (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae) from Crete, Gavdos, Gavdopoula, and Andikithira
Being nocturnal, hiding in prickly bushes and shrubs during the day, Eupholidoptera species in Crete and its neighbouring islands are easily overlooked, and until now our knowledge about their distribution was based on some thirty sightings across 11 species. In this paper results are presented of a study of Eupholidoptera specimens collected between 1987 and 2020 by hand-catches and pitfall and fermenting traps on the Greek islands of Crete, Gavdos, Gavdopoula, and Andikithira. Diagnostic features of all known species are presented and illustrated with stacked images. An updated key to all species is provided. Eupholidoptera francisae Tilmans & Odé, sp. nov. from Andikithira and southwestern Crete and Eupholidoptera marietheresae Willemse & Kotitsa, sp. nov. from Mt. Dikti are described. Female E. cretica, E. gemellata, and E. mariannae are described, and the female of E. astyla is redescribed. Bioacoustics for E. francisae Tilmans & Odé, sp. nov., E. giuliae, and E. jacquelinae are presented for the first time. Eupholidoptera smyrnensis is reported for the first time from Crete. A substantial amount of new distribution data for Eupholidoptera species on Crete is presented. The current distribution pattern and first analyses of phylogeny based on molecular data of Eupholidoptera species on Crete are discussed in relation to paleogeographical events.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿A new species of Bush frog (Anura, Rhacophoridae, Raorchestes) from southeastern Yunnan, China
In this study, based on morphological and molecular data, a new bush frog species is described from Yunnan, China. Eleven samples of Raorchestes malipoensis sp. nov. were collected from Malipo County, southeastern Yunnan. This species can be distinguished from other congeners by a combination of 13 morphological characters. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene indicate that these individuals form a monophyletic group, and genetic divergence between this clade and its closest relatives is higher than 3.1%, which is comparable to the divergence between recognized Raorchestes species. The discovery of this new species suggests that additional extensive surveys in the southeastern Yunnan would yield more amphibian lineages yet unknown to science.
["Kurixalus gryllus"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿A new genus of Textricini Lehtinen, 1967 (Araneae, Agelenidae) from Anatolia
Türkiye is known to have the highest diversity of the spider family Agelenidae in the Western Palaearctic and the highest diversity of the subfamily Ageleninae globally. The new agelenid genus Anatextrix gen. nov. (Ageleninae, Textricini) and its type species, A. spectabilis sp. nov. (♂♀; Mersin and Adana provinces, southern Türkiye), are described. A key to all four genera of Textricini is provided.
["Ageleninae"]

﻿A new species of Cletocamptus Schmankevitsch, 1875 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Canthocamptidae) from Rayong Province, Eastern Thailand
Cletocamptus thailandensis sp. nov. was discovered in a water body at the base of a small mountain near the Phang Rat River Delta in Rayong Province, Eastern Thailand. The new species resembles C. goenchim Gómez, Ingole, Sawant & Singh, 2013 and C. koreanus Chang, 2013, but it can be distinguished from these two species based on the armament of the endopodal lobe of the male P5, ornamentations of the abdominal segments, the caudal ramus, the male P3Endp-3, and the relative length of the aesthetasc on the fourth segment of the female antennule. According to the combinations of certain female characteristics, including the number of setae on the P3Endp-2, the relative length of the caudal ramus, the relative length of the inner apical seta on the P3Endp-2, the shape of the P5, and the number of setae on the P3Exp-2, five groups of the Cletocamptus species can be defined.
["Brackish water"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿But wait, there’s more! Descriptions of new species and undescribed sexes of flattie spiders (Araneae, Selenopidae, Karaops) from Australia
Nineteen new species of Karaops are described: K. durrantorum sp. nov. (♂), K. morganoconnelli sp. nov. (♀♂), K. joehaeneri sp. nov. (♀), K. dalmanyi sp. nov. (♀♂), K. garyodwyeri sp. nov. (♂), K. dejongi sp. nov. (♀♂), K. malumbu sp. nov. (♀♂), K. conilurus sp. nov. (♂), K. yumbubaarnji sp. nov. (♀♂), K. markharveyi sp. nov. (♀♂), K. nitmiluk sp. nov. (♀), K. kennerleyorum sp. nov. (♂), K. jawayway sp. nov. (♀), K. mparntwe sp. nov. (♀), K. larapinta sp. nov. (♀), K. kwartatuma sp. nov. (♂), K. madhawundu sp. nov. (♀), and K. mareeba sp. nov. (♀). The male of K. umiida Crews, 2013 was found to be misidentified and is now K. conilurus sp. nov. Karaops yindjibarndi syn. nov. is a new synonym of K. nyiyaparli. Selenops australiensis L. Koch, 1875 is considered a nomen dubium because the holotype is an immature male, and the species previously referred to as K. australiensis (L. Koch, 1875) is here described as K. strayamate sp. nov. (♀♂). The males of K. marrayagong Crews & Harvey, 2011 and K. banyjima Crews, 2013 are described for the first time. To manage the growing diversity of the genus, most of the species have been placed in species groups, which are diagnosed. They are the Central Desert group, the strayamate group, the raveni group, the dawara group, the francesae group, the Kimberley group, and the Pilbara-Gascoyne group. New keys are provided to accommodate the new species, and new distribution maps and new records are provided for all species. Diagnoses and descriptions are emended where required. Images of live spiders, many not previously seen alive, and natural history information are also provided.
["Kimberley"]

﻿Revision of the genus Charitoprepes Warren (Lepidoptera, Crambidae), with the description of a new species from China
The genus Charitoprepes is revised based on morphological characteristics, and Charitoprepes aciculata sp. nov. is described as new from China. Additionally, the female genitalia of C. lubricosa are described for the first time based on new material. The differences among species of this genus are diagnosed, along with images of adults and their genitalia.
["Charitoprepes aciculata sp. nov."]

﻿Description of two new species of the leafhopper genus Pediopsis Burmeister (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Eurymelinae, Macropsini) from China
Two new leafhopper species of Pediopsis Burmeister, Pediopsis albopicta Li & Dai, sp. nov. from Hunan and Guizhou provinces of central China and Pediopsis pianmaensis Li & Dai, sp. nov. from Yunnan Province of southwestern China, are described and illustrated. Ambiguity in the original description of P. bannaensis Yang & Zhang is discussed, and figures of the female holotype of P. femorata Hamilton are provided for the first time. A checklist and key to Chinese species of Pediopsis are also given.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿A new Asian leaf litter toad of the genus Leptobrachella (Amphibia, Anura, Megophryidae) from central south China
A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella from central south China is described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on mitochondrial 16S rRNA and nuclear RAG1 gene sequences indicated the new species as an independent clade in the genus. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body of medium size (SVL 29.2–34.2 mm in 15 adult males and 34.4–43.1 mm in seven adult females); distinct black spots present on flanks; toes rudimentary webbed, with wide lateral fringes; ventral belly white with distinct nebulous brown speckling on ventrolateral flanks; skin on dorsum shagreened with fine tiny granules or short ridges; iris copper above, silver below; heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibia-tarsal articulation reaches the middle eye; dorsal surface of tadpole semi-transparent light brown, spots on tail absent, keratodont row formula I: 3+3/2+2: I; call series basically consist of repeated long calls, at dominant frequency (5093 ± 412 Hz).
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿New records of two roughy fish species of Hoplostethus and a confirmed record of H. crassispinus Kotlyar, 1980 (Trachichthyiformes, Trachichthyidae) from Taiwan
Two rarely caught species of the roughy fish genus Hoplostethus have been identified for the first time in the fish collections of Taiwan. The first, H. grandperrini Roberts & Gomon, 2012 was previously known only from two type specimens collected in the Southern Hemisphere off the coast of New Caledonia. Its distribution is now extended to the Northern Hemisphere off the coast of Pingtung, southern Taiwan. Our specimen represents the only record of this species since its initial description. The second, H. robustispinus Moore & Dodd, 2010 was originally described from a single specimen collected in the Philippines and was only known from the type locality and a single record off the Paracel Islands, South China Sea. This specimen represents the third record of the species since its original description. A single specimen of H. crassispinus Kotlyar, 1980, whose name has long appeared in the ichthyological literature of Taiwan and adjacent areas, was also identified as the first specimen-based record for Taiwan. Detailed descriptions of these species are provided and compared with available data of respective type specimens and related species, with intraspecific variations also discussed. Also included is a dichotomous key to all known species of the subgenus Hoplostethus in Taiwan.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿A new glassfrog species of the genus Centrolene (Amphibia, Anura, Centrolenidae) from Cordillera del Cóndor, southern Ecuador
Based on an integrative taxonomical approach, using molecular, morphological, and bioacoustics data, a new species of glassfrog of the genus Centrolene is described from Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Zarza, southern Ecuador. Centrolene zarza sp. nov. is a medium sized species, easily distinguished from all other glassfrogs by its unique combination of characters, such as a shagreen dorsum with elevated warts corresponding to white spots, an evident tympanum, half or more than half of the upper parietal peritoneum covered by iridophores, iridophores absent on all visceral peritonea, including the pericardium, a lobed liver lacking iridophores, males with small projecting humeral spines, the outer edges of forearms and tarsus with a row of enameled warts that often continue into the external edges of Finger IV and/or Toe V, and white or yellowish white iris with thick black reticulations. The new species is closely related to a currently undescribed species and superficially resembles C. condor, C. pipilata, C. solitaria, C. altitudinalis, and C. daidalea. The tadpole and advertisement and courtship calls are described, and the threats to the species survival, mainly represented by habitat loss and contamination due to mining activities, are briefly discussed.
["Amphibians"]

﻿Taxonomic notes of subgenus Velia (Cesavelia) Koçak & Kemal, 2010 (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Veliidae) from China, with description of one new species
Velia (Cesavelia) bui sp. nov. from Hubei Province, China is described, and Velia (Cesavelia) tonkina Polhemus & Polhemus, 2003 is newly recorded from China. In addition, new distribution data for three species of Velia (Cesavelia), V. longiconnexiva Tran, Zettel & Buzzetti, 2009, V. sinensis Andersen, 1981 and V. tonkina Polhemus & Polhemus, 2003 are provided. Photographs of the habitus in dorsal and lateral views, metafemora of males, genitalic structures and habitats, along with a distribution map of this subgenus, are provided.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

﻿First record of the flat-skulled woolly bat Kerivoula depressa and the Indochinese woolly bat K. dongduongana (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in China
Recent studies have revealed that the Kerivoula depressa complex should be divided into two species, K. depressa distributed mainly in Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, and K. dongduongana found only in the Annamite Mountains of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. In November 2018 and April 2019, 24 woolly bats were collected by two-band harp traps in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China. Based on morphological, morphometric, and phylogenetic (COI, Cytb, and RAG2 gene sequences) analyses, these bats were identified as K. depressa and K. dongduongana, representing two new species records for the country. Including the new records, six Kerivoula species have been recorded in China, namely K. depressa, K. dongduongana, K. furva, K. kachinensis, K. picta and K. titania. To facilitate their identification and biological research in the future, we have provided an up-to-date key to all Kerivoula species occurring in China.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Cryospheric studies and observations"]

﻿Addenda and corrigenda: Juřena D (2022) ﻿A critical review of the distribution of the endangered European earth-borer beetle Bolbelasmus unicornis (Coleoptera, Geotrupidae), with new records from 13 countries and observations on its bionomy. ZooKeys 1105: 1–125. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1105.81474
The author provides corrections of minor errors and omissions from his initial study, as well as data from omitted and new literature, and new records based on the material studied and new observations. For some of the previously published records, details obtained subsequently by the author are added. The first record of Bolbelasmus unicornis for Belarus is given, representing the northernmost known occurrence of the species. The second recent record for Croatia is quoted from an internet source. Updated distribution maps are provided for the Czech Republic and Slovakia, and for the entire range, as well as a distribution map of the Western Palaearctic representatives of the B. unicornis species group. The species is currently known from 386 localities in 20 countries.
["Bolboceratinae"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Management and Policy"]

﻿Four new species of the genus Diploderma Hallowell, 1861 (Squamata, Agamidae) from China
Four new species of Diploderma are described from Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, southwestern China, based on an integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphological and genetic data. The first new species from Danba County, Sichuan Province, is morphologically most similar and phylogenetically closely related to D. flaviceps, but it can be diagnosed from the latter by having a relatively much shorter tail and by a genetic distance of 4.4% in the ND2 gene; the second new species from Muli County, Sichuan Province, is phylogenetically closely related to D. daochengense, D. yongshengense, and D. yulongense, but it can be diagnosed from the latter three species by having a pale yellow gular spot and by genetic distances of 5.6–6.7% in the ND2 gene; the third new species from Jiulong County, Sichuan Province, is morphologically most similar and phylogenetically closely related to D. angustelinea, but it can be diagnosed from the latter by having a relatively much longer tail and by a genetic distance of 2.8% in the ND2 gene; and the last new species from Weixi County, Yunnan Province, is phylogenetically closely related to D. aorun, but it can be diagnosed from the latter by having a pale yellow gular spot and by a genetic distance of 2.9% in the ND2 gene. Our work brings the number of species within the genus Diploderma to 46.
["Hengduan Mountain Region"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Thirteen species of jumping spiders from northern Vietnam (Araneae, Salticidae)
A new genus and thirteen species of jumping spiders from northern Vietnam are reported. Zabka gen. nov. is erected to accommodate two species transferred from Euophrys Blackwall,1841, including the generotype, Z. cooki (Żabka, 1985), comb. nov., and Z. xuyei (Lin & Li, 2020), comb. nov. Twelve new species are described: Chinattus crewsae sp. nov. (♂♀), C. logunovi sp. nov. (♂♀), Eupoa maidinhyeni sp. nov. (♂♀), E. maddisoni sp. nov. (♂♀), E. ninhbinh sp. nov. (♂), E. zabkai sp. nov. (♂♀), Indopadilla cuc sp. nov. (♂♀), Synagelides ani sp. nov. (♂♀), S. mii sp. nov. (♂♀), S. pengi sp. nov. (♀), S. sancha sp. nov. (♂♀), and Yaginumaella hagiang sp. nov. (♂). The unknown male of Zabka cooki is described for the first time. Diagnostic photos of the habitus and copulatory organs are provided.

﻿Revision of Acesines Stål and Dunnius Distant, resurrection of Mycterizon Breddin (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomidae, Pentatominae), and description of a new species from India
The genera Acesines Stål, 1876 and Dunnius Distant, 1902 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae: Pentatominae) were revised and redescribed with the description of Dunnius barpetensis Salini & Rabbani, sp. nov., based on specimens from Assam and Meghalaya, northeastern states of India. The genus Mycterizon Breddin, 1909 is reinstated from Dunnius, removed from the tribe Menidini, and redescribed. Consequently, the following new combinations are proposed: A. sordida (Kirby, 1891), comb. nov., Dunnius laticeps (Zheng & Liu, 1987), comb. nov., D. tridentatus (Xiong & Liu, 1995), comb. nov., and D. trifasciatus (Xiong & Liu, 1995), comb. nov. A lectotype is designated for Araducta bella (Distant, 1900a). Acesines bambusana Distant, 1918, and Mycterizon bellus stat. rev. are redescribed based on both male and female genitalia and Dunnius fulvescens (Dallas, 1851) is redescribed based on female genitalia.
["Araducta bella"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

﻿A new species of Diglyphus Walker (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) from China, with morphological characterizations and molecular analysis
Diglyphus Walker, 1844 (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) is an economically important genus including species acting as biocontrol agents against agromyzid leafminer pests. A new species of Diglyphus, Diglyphus difasciatus Liu, Hansson & Wan, sp. nov., was discovered during the identification of agromyzid leafminers and their associated parasitoid wasps collected from 2016 to 2022 in China, based on morphological characteristics and molecular analyses of COI, ITS2 and 28S genes. Diglyphus difasciatus is similar to D. bimaculatus Zhu, LaSalle & Huang, distinguished by two interconnected infuscate vertical bands on the fore wing and the color of the scape. Molecular data support D. difasciatus and D. bimaculatus as two different species. The mean genetic distances between D. difasciatus and D. bimaculatus were 11.33%, 8.62%, and 0.18%, based on the COI, ITS2, and 28S genes, respectively.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Mordellistena platypoda, a new species of tumbling flower beetle from the island of Ischia in Italy (Coleoptera, Mordellidae)
Mordellistena A. Costa, 1854, the most species-rich genus of tumbling flower beetles comprises more than 800 species worldwide and more than 150 reported from Europe. Here, a new species Mordellistena (s. str.) platypoda is described from the island of Ischia in Italy. The species hypothesis is based primarily on morphological characters which are visualised using scanning electron microscopy images, high-resolution photographs, and drawings. The species hypothesis is supported by analysis of a 658 bp fragment of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). Divergences in the COI gene are evaluated using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses. The species delimitation is assessed using Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP) and Poisson Tree Processes (PTP) methods. Genetic distances are visualised using multidimensional scaling. Mordellistena platypoda Selnekovič, Goffová & Kodada, sp. nov. is recovered as a well-separated species by both molecular and morphological analyses. Our results show that M. platypoda Selnekovič, Goffová & Kodada, sp. nov. is most closely related to M. tarsata Mulsant, 1856, although the two species differ significantly in vestiture colouration, presence of lateral ctenidia on the third metatarsomere, and presence of sexual dimorphism on the protibia. The results indicate that such morphological differences, which were traditionally used to distinguish between species groups, may in fact be present between closely related species. Interestingly, examination of the numerous museum material did not reveal additional specimens of the new species, and therefore M. platypoda Selnekovič, Goffová & Kodada, sp. nov. is currently known only from the Italian island of Ischia.
["Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI)"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿Two new species of the genus Terrobittacus Tan & Hua, 2009 (Mecoptera, Bittacidae)
Two new species of Terrobittacus Tan & Hua, 2009 are described and illustrated from Sichuan and Guangxi provinces of China, increasing the species number of Terrobittacus to eight. Terrobittacus emeishanicus sp. nov. is differentiated from its congeners by wings with distinct markings and a female subgenital plate with a V-shaped carina. Terrobittacus laoshanicus sp. nov. can be recognized by the black terga VI–IX. A key to species of Terrobittacus is updated. The species distribution and the relationship between adult morphology and mating behavior were briefly discussed.

﻿Five times over: 42 new Angustopila species highlight Southeast Asia’s rich biodiversity (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Hypselostomatidae)
The Southeast Asian genus Angustopila, currently comprising 13 nominal species, encompasses the world’s tiniest land snails. This work shows that there are far more species than previously suspected, and that this genus is in fact, a very speciose group of tiny snails widely distributed in Southeast Asia. Angustopila is revised based on type material of known species as well as 211 samples newly collected in China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. Altogether, 53 species and one subspecies are recognised, of which 42 species and subspecies are new to science: A. akrodon Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. apiaria Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. apiostoma Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. apokritodon Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. antidomedon Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. babel Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. bathyodon Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. bidentata Páll-Gergely & Jochum, sp. nov., A. cavicola Páll-Gergely & Dumrongrojwattana, sp. nov., A. cicatricosa Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. coprologos uninodus Páll-Gergely & Grego, ssp. nov., A. erawanica Páll-Gergely & Dumrongrojwattana, sp. nov., A. fratermajor Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. fraterminor Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. gracilis Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. halongensis Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. hyron Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. maasseni Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. majuscula Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. margaritarion Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. megastoma Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. occidentalis Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. oostoma Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. papaver Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. parallela Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. prolixa Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. pusilla Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. pustulata Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. quadridens Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. rara Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. reticulata Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. somsaki Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. steffeki Páll-Gergely & Grego, sp. nov., A. tetradon Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. thersites Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. tonkinospiroides Páll-Gergely & Vermeulen, sp. nov., A. tridentata Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. tweediei Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. uvula Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. vandevenderi Páll-Gergely & Jochum, sp. nov., A. vitrina Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. vomer Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov., A. werneri Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. nov. Angustopila subelevata Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, 2015 is moved to the synonymy of Angustopila elevata (F. G. Thompson & Upatham, 1997), and A. singuladentis Inkhavilay & Panha, 2016 is a junior synonym of A. fabella Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, 2015. Three species, namely A. elevata, A. fabella and A. szekeresi, are widespread over several hundred kilometres while some other species (A. huoyani, A. parallela sp. nov., A. cavicola sp. nov.) are known from just two sites a few hundred kilometres apart. All others are small range or single-site endemics. The reproductive anatomy of A. erawanica sp. nov. is described.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Helminth infection and control", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Identification and distribution of leafrollers (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) associated with berries (Rosaceae) cultivated in Mexico
Berries are agricultural products of great economic interest for Mexico, and their production has increased in recent years; however, crops are affected by tortricid leafrollers. From August 2019 to April 2021 in Michoacán and Guanajuato, Mexico, a study was conducted to determine the species of tortricids associated with blackberries (Rubus spp. L.), raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) and strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.), as well as their altitudinal distribution. In 12 orchards located in these states, shoots, leaves and flowers infested by larvae were collected. The species were identified by male genitalia and were determined taxonomically as Amorbia cuneana (Walsingham, 1879), Argyrotaenia montezumae (Walsingham, 1914) and Platynota sp. Walker, 1859, found at elevations from 1290 to 2372 m. The most abundant species were A. cuneana and A. montezumae. Generally, these tortricids prefer to feed on tender vegetative parts of the plant, but the economic impact they have is not known. It is worth mentioning that the number of species found is lower than those reported in other countries, but it is necessary to broaden the study area to other berry-producing regions to determine whether their distribution is wider.
["Altitude"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

﻿Redescription of Periplaneta arabica (Bey-Bienko, 1938) (Blattodea, Blattidae), with a comparative analysis of three species of Periplaneta Burmeister, 1838 (sensu stricto)
The blattid cockroach Periplaneta arabica (Bey-Bienko, 1938) has been poorly understood since its original description. In this study, male and female (including nymph) of P. arabica are paired using DNA barcoding, and their morphological characters (including both external characteristics and genitalia) are described. A detailed comparative morphological study of this species and the closely related Periplaneta americana (Linnaeus, 1758) and Periplaneta lateralis Walker, 1868 was carried out to explore phylogenetically relevant characters.
["Blattid cockroach"]

﻿Identification and reproductive isolation of Euborellia species (Insecta, Dermaptera, Anisolabididae) from East and Southeast Asia
Euborellia (Anisolabididae: Anisolabidinae) is one of the most speciose genera of earwigs (Dermaptera), and its species-level classification is difficult. To settle the classification of brachypterous species with abbreviated tegmina recorded from East and Southeast Asia, we examined the morphology and reproductive isolation of three tentative Euborellia species, and analyzed the DNA barcoding region of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The observed complete reproductive isolation among the three Euborellia taxa and considerable differentiation in the COI sequences clearly show that each should be treated as a separate species. Based on morphology, distribution and the DNA sequence, we identify Euborellia sp. 1 of Malaysia as E. annulata (Fabricius), a circumtropical cosmopolitan with no records of a fully winged form. Samples from Ioto Island (= Iwo-jima Island: Ogasawara Islands, southern Japan) were also identified as this species. Euborellia sp. 3, from the main islands of Japan, was generally larger and lacked a Y-shaped pigmented area on the penis lobe, which is characteristic of Euborellia sp. 1. We propose reinstating E. pallipes (Shiraki) as the oldest name for this taxon. Euborellia sp. 2, even the brachypterous form, can be distinguished from these two species by its paler coloration (particularly the femora), ecarinate post-abdomen, and the shape of the male genitalia (parameres). We tentatively identify this species as E. philippinensis Srivastava based on the morphology of the brachypterous form, although the macropterous form cannot be distinguished from E. femoralis (Dohrn).

﻿A survey of the spider genus Dysdera Latreille, 1804 (Araneae, Dysderidae) in Iran, with fourteen new species and notes on two fossil genera
The taxonomy of the Iranian species of the dysderid spider genus Dysdera Latreille, 1804 is revised. Currently, the only species of this genus known from Iran is D. pococki Dunin, 1985, albeit on the basis of a doubtful record. The following 14 species are described as new to science in this paper: D. achaemenes sp. nov. (♀; Fars), D. bakhtiari sp. nov. (♂; Chaharmahal & Bakhtiari), D. damavandica sp. nov. (♂; Mazandaran), D. genoensis sp. nov. (♂♀; Hormozgan), D. hormuzensis sp. nov. (♀; Hormozgan), D. iranica sp. nov. (♂♀; Fars, Hormozgan), D. isfahanica sp. nov. (♂♀; Isfahan), D. mazeruni sp. nov. (♀; Mazandaran), D. medes sp. nov. (♂; Tehran), D. persica sp. nov. (♂♀; Golestan, Mazandaran), D. sagartia sp. nov. (♂♀; Tehran), D. tapuria sp. nov. (♂♀; Mazandaran), D. verkana sp. nov. (♂; Golestan), and D. xerxesi sp. nov. (♂; Bushehr). Distribution records of all species are mapped. Also, the taxonomy of Mistura Petrunkevitch, 1971 and Segistriites Straus, 1967, two fossil genera currently considered in Dysderidae, is discussed and the latter is transferred to Segestriidae.

﻿The identity of Argyria lacteella (Fabricius, 1794) (Lepidoptera, Pyraloidea, Crambinae), synonyms, and related species revealed by morphology and DNA capture in type specimens
In this study the aim was to resolve the taxonomy of several species of Argyria Hübner (Pyraloidea, Crambinae) with previously unrecognised morphological variation. By analysing the DNA barcode (COI-5P) in numerous specimens, the aim was to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships between species, to provide better evidence for synonymies, and to circumscribe their geographical distribution. Using an innovative DNA hybridisation capture protocol, the DNA barcode of the lectotype of Argyria lacteella (Fabricius, 1794) was partially recovered for comparison with the 229 DNA barcode sequences of Argyria specimens available in the Barcode of Life Datasystems, and this firmly establishes the identity of the species. The same protocol was used for the following type specimens: the Argyria abronalis (Walker, 1859) holotype, thus confirming the synonymy of this name with A. lacteella, the holotype of A. lusella (Zeller, 1863), syn. rev., the holotype of A. multifacta Dyar, 1914, syn. nov. newly synonymised with A. lacteella, and a specimen of Argyria diplomochalis Dyar, 1913, collected in 1992. In addition, nine specimens of A. lacteella, A. diplomochalis, A. centrifugens Dyar, 1914 and A. gonogramma Dyar, 1915, from North to South America were sampled using classical COI amplification and Sanger sequencing. Argyria gonogramma Dyar, described from Bermuda, is the name to be applied to the more widespread North American species formerly identified as A. lacteella. Following morphological study of its holotype, Argyria vestalis Butler, 1878, syn. nov. is also synonymised with A. lacteella. The name A. pusillalis Hübner, 1818, is considered a nomen dubium associated with A. gonogramma. The adult morphology is diagnosed and illustrated, and distributions are plotted for A. lacteella, A. diplomochalis, A. centrifugens, and A. gonogramma based on slightly more than 800 specimens. For the first time, DNA barcode sequences are provided for the Antillean A. diplomochalis. This work provides a modified, improved protocol for the efficient hybrid capture enrichment of DNA barcodes from 18th and 19th century type specimens in order to solve taxonomic issues in Lepidoptera.
["Argyria centrifugens Dyar"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿A remarkable new species of the flat bug genus Nesoproxius (Hemiptera, Aradidae), the first Oceanian representative with brachyptery
A new flat bug species, Nesoproxius kishimotoi sp. nov., from the Oceanian region (Ogasawara Islands, Japan) is described. It is the first brachypterous representative in the genus Nesoproxius. The sexual dimorphism, nymph, and habitat are also described for the first time in this genus. A key to the species of Nesoproxius is also provided.
["Carventinae"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Three new species in Tetrastemma Ehrenberg, 1828 (Nemertea, Monostilifera) from sublittoral to upper bathyal zones of the northwestern Pacific
Monostiliferous nemerteans in the genus Tetrastemma Ehrenberg, 1828 are generally characterized as having four eyes, and they occur worldwide, from the intertidal zone to the deep-sea bottom. Recent extensive sampling of Tetrastemma has explored the high species diversity, including many undescribed forms, but phylogenic analysis has revealed non-monophyly of the genus. We herein describe three new species of the genus (T. album sp. nov., T. persona sp. nov., and T. shohoense sp. nov.) from northwestern Pacific waters based on specimens collected by dredging or by use of a remotely operated vehicle at depths of 116–455 m. Since anatomical and histological characters traditionally used in systematics of the genus are sometimes interspecifically uniform, a histology-free approach is applied for the species descriptions in this study. To confirm the generic affiliation of the new species, a molecular phylogenetic analysis based on partial sequences of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, 16S rRNA, 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, and histone H3 genes was performed. Our result shows that all three new species are nested in a subclade formed by species from the North Pacific and American Atlantic, inferring that geographic distribution does not reflect the cladogenesis of Tetrastemma. Furthermore, two Tetrastemma species with a cylindrical stylet basis, T. freyae Chernyshev et al., 2020 from off the coast of India and Hawaii and T. shohoense sp. nov. from Shoho Seamount, Japan, constitute a clade in the resulting tree.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

﻿A key to genera of Dikraneurini from China, with description of a new species of Cornicola Ohara & Hayashi (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae)
The leafhopper genus Cornicola Ohara & Hayashi, previously recorded from Japan, is recorded from China for the first time and a new species, C. maculatus Xu, Dietrich & Qin, sp. nov., is described and illustrated, including its color polymorphism. This genus has male genitalia and hind wing venation similar to those found in Empoascini but it is more appropriately placed in Dikraneurini. A key to species of Cornicola is given together with a key to the genera of Dikraneurini from China.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿First record of the genus Touranella Attems, 1937 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae) from Laos, with a description of a new species
The paradoxosomatid genus Touranella Attems, 1937 is recorded from Laos for the first time, with a new species, Touranella champasak sp. nov., described here. The taxonomy of the genus is discussed, an identification key is provided, and the current distribution of all species is mapped.
["Bioinventory"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿A new species of Dipsas (Serpentes, Dipsadidae) from central Panama
A new species of Dipsas Laurenti, 1768, from Central Panama is described based on molecular analyses, hemipenial morphology, and external characters. This is the sixth species of Dipsas to be described for the country; the snake has been suspected to exist since 1977 and has not been thoroughly studied until now. Additionally, morphological comparations including scale counts are done with other species within the genus, and the current geographic distribution of Dipsas temporalis (Werner, 1909), the sister species, is updated. Finally, a key to the species of Dipsas currently known from Middle America is presented.
["Dipsadini"]

﻿New species in old mountains: integrative taxonomy reveals ten new species and extensive short-range endemism in Nesticus spiders (Araneae, Nesticidae) from the southern Appalachian Mountains
This revision is based on sampling efforts over the past three decades in the southern Appalachian Mountains which have provided Nesticus (Araneae, Nesticidae) collections of approximately 2100 adult specimens from more than 475 unique collecting events. Using a “morphology first” framework we examined recently collected specimens plus museum material to formulate morphology-based species hypotheses for putative new taxa (discovery phase). Using sequence capture of nuclear ultraconserved elements (UCEs) we analyzed 801 nuclear loci to validate new (and prior) morphology-based species hypotheses (validation phase) and reconstructed a robust backbone phylogeny including all described and new species. Sanger sequencing and UCE-bycatch were also used to gather mitochondrial data for more than 240 specimens. Based on our integrative taxonomic framework ten new Nesticus species are herein described, including N. binfordae sp. nov., N. bondi sp. nov., N. canei sp. nov., N. cherokeensis sp. nov., N. dellingeri sp. nov., N. dykemanae sp. nov., N. jemisinae sp. nov., N. lowderi sp. nov., N. roanensis sp. nov., and N. templetoni sp. nov. Previously unknown males are also described for N. bishopi Gertsch, 1984, N. crosbyi Gertsch, 1984, and N. silvanus Gertsch, 1984, as well as the previously unknown female for N. mimus Gertsch, 1984. Based on combined evidence N. cooperi Gertsch, 1984 is placed in synonymy with N. reclusus Gertsch, 1984. Overall, the montane radiation of Appalachian Nesticus reveals a general lack of species sympatry and compelling biogeographic patterns. Several regional Nesticus taxa are rare, microendemic habitat specialists that deserve conservation attention and detailed future monitoring as conservation sentinels.
["Cryophilic"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿On two new Oedignatha species from Xishuangbanna, China, and the first description of the female of Jacaena menglaensis Mu & Zhang, 2020 (Araneae, Liocranidae)
Liocranid spiders from the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunnan, China are studied. Two new species of Oedignatha Thorell, 1881, O. dian Lu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and O. menglun Lu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), are described, and the female of Jacaena menglaensis Mu & Zhang, 2020 is described for the first time. The specimens studied are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing, China.

﻿The bee genus Anthidiellum in Vietnam: descriptions of five new species and the first male of Anthidiellum coronum (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)
The Vietnamese fauna of bees in the Anthidiellum Cockerell (Megachilinae, Anthidiini) is reviewed. Seven species are recognized, representing two subgenera. Five new species are described and figured as: Anthidiellum (Clypanthidium) nahang Tran, Engel & Nguyen, sp. nov., A. (Pycnanthidium) ayun Tran, Engel & Nguyen, sp. nov., A. (P.) chumomray Tran, Engel & Nguyen, sp. nov., A. (P.) flavaxilla Tran, Engel & Nguyen, sp. nov., and A. (P.) cornu Tran, Engel & Nguyen, sp. nov. from the northern and central highlands of Vietnam. Two previously described species are newly recorded for the fauna: A. (P.) carinatum (Wu) and A. (P.) coronum (Wu), with the male of the latter species described and illustrated for the first time. An identification key is provided for all species of Anthidiellum occurring in Vietnam.
["Apoidea"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿A taxonomic revision of ten whitefish species from the lakes Lucerne, Sarnen, Sempach and Zug, Switzerland, with descriptions of seven new species (Teleostei, Coregonidae)
The taxonomy of the endemic whitefish of the lakes of the Reuss River system (Lucerne, Sarnen, Zug) and Lake Sempach, Switzerland, is reviewed and revised. Lake Lucerne harbours five species. Coregonus intermundia sp. nov. and C. suspensus sp. nov., are described. Coregonus nobilis Haack, 1882, C. suidteri Fatio, 1885, and C. zugensis Nüsslin, 1882, are redescribed. Genetic studies have shown that C. suidteri and C. zugensis are composed of several distinct species endemic to different lakes. The names C. suidteri and C. zugensis are restricted to the species of lakes Sempach and Zug, respectively. The whitefish populations previously referred to as C. suidteri and C. zugensis from Lake Lucerne are described as C. litoralis sp. nov. and C. muelleri sp. nov., respectively. Furthermore, the whitefish from Lake Zug that were previously referred to as C. suidteri are described as C. supersum sp. nov. A holotype is designated for C. supersum that was previously one of two syntypes of C. zugensis. The other syntype is retained for C. zugensis. Coregonus obliterus sp. nov. is described from Lake Zug, and C. obliterus and C. zugensis from Lake Zug are extinct. Finally, we describe C. sarnensis sp. nov. from lakes Sarnen and Alpnach. Coregonus suidteri from Lake Sempach shows strong signals of introgression from deliberately translocated non-native whitefish species, which questions if the extant population still carries a genetic legacy from the original species and thus may need to be considered extinct. Coregonus suspensus is genetically partially of allochthonous origin, closely related to the radiation of Lake Constance. It is therefore compared to all known and described species of Lake Constance: C. wartmanni Bloch, 1784, C. macrophthalmus Nüsslin, 1882, C. arenicolus Kottelat,1997, and C. gutturosus Gmelin, 1818.
["Adaptive radiation"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿A revision of Centrioncus Speiser (Diptera, Diopsidae, Centrioncinae) with descriptions of new species from Angola, Burundi, and Kenya
A diagnosis is presented for the Centrioncinae, the Afromontane Forest Flies or stalkless Diopsidae, while its taxonomic position within the Diopsidae is discussed. Arguments are presented for an eventual raising of the Centrioncinae to family level. The differential characters for its two genera, Centrioncus Speiser and Teloglabrus Feijen, are tabulated. The diagnosis for Centrioncus is updated and a key to the ten species now recognised (including three new species) is provided. Centrioncus crassifemur sp. nov. is described from a single female from Angola. This greatly extends the distribution range for the genus. Centrioncus bururiensis sp. nov. is described from Burundi, while Centrioncus copelandi sp. nov. originates from the Kasigau Massif of Kenya. Diagnoses, descriptive updates, illustrations and notes are presented for all other Centrioncus. Centrioncus aberrans Feijen, described from Uganda, is now also recorded for western Kenya, Rwanda, and possibly eastern DR Congo. This wide range of C. aberrans is unusual for the Centrioncinae species which have allopatric and usually very restricted distribution ranges. Defining characters of C. aberrans from the various regions were examined in detail, but only minor differences were found. Centrioncus decoronotus Feijen, described from Kenya, is now recorded for several other places in Kenya. A distribution map is given for the Eastern African Centrioncus species. The eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley appears to form a barrier between C. aberrans and C. decoronotus. The type species of the genus, C. prodiopsis Speiser from the Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, was only known from the 1905–1906 type series. After more than 100 years it has now been found again on the Kenya side of Kilimanjaro. Various differential characters of Centrioncus and Diopsidae are discussed, while brief discussions on sex ratio and fungal parasites are given. Centrioncus are known to occur on low shrubs and herbaceous plants in rain forests. Now, the possibility is indicated that they also might occur higher up in the tree canopies.
["Afromontane forest flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿Eastern Colombian Páramo Liodessus Guignot, 1939 diving beetles are genetically structured, but show signs of hybridization, with description of new species and subspecies (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
We studied Liodessus diving beetles from six eastern Colombian Páramo areas, as well as from the Altiplano. We discovered a highly characteristic new species, based on male genital morphology, Liodessus santarosita sp. nov., in the Páramo de Guantiva-Rusia. Specimens from the Altiplano around Bogotá, and the Páramos of Almorzadero, Chingaza, Matarredonda, Rabanal y Rio Bogotá and Sumapaz form one clade of genetically similar populations based on mitochondrial Cox1 sequence data. The individuals of this clade are sub-structured according to their geographic distribution. The populations differ from each other mainly in terms of body size and coloration and, at most, subtly in their genital morphology. In two cases, we find putative hybrid populations between Altiplano and Páramo areas. We suggest that the different Páramo populations are in an early phase of speciation, and perhaps already genetically isolated in some cases. They are here assigned subspecies status to highlight these ongoing processes pending more comprehensive geographic sampling and use of genomic data. We refer to this clade as the Liodessus bogotensis complex, containing Liodessus b. bogotensis Guignot, 1953; Liodessus b. almorzadero ssp. nov.; Liodessus b. chingaza ssp. nov.; Liodessus b. lacunaviridis Balke et al., 2021, stat. nov.; Liodessus b. matarredonda ssp. nov., and Liodessus b. sumapaz ssp. nov.
["Colombia"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Corrigendum: Salvi D, Al-Kandari M, Oliver PG, Berrilli E, Garzia M (2022) Cryptic marine diversity in the northern Arabian Gulf: an integrative approach uncovers a new species of oyster (Bivalvia: Ostreidae), Ostrea oleomargarita. Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research 2022: 7058975. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/7058975
Here we provide a Code-compliant description of Ostrea oleomargarita Oliver, Salvi, and Al-Kandari, sp. nov as reported in Salvi et al. (2022) and complemented with the ZooBank registration numbers of the publication and of the new species name. Results of phylogenetic, species delimitation, and morphological analyses on which the systematic assessment of this new species is based can be found in Salvi et al. (2022).
["Ostrea oleomargarita"]
["Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Big diversity in a small hotspot: two new species of Leptophlebiidae (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) from New Caledonia
Two new species from Grande Terre Island, New Caledonia, namely Fasciamirus petersorum sp. nov. and Simulacala rara sp. nov. are described based on larval morphology and molecular data (COI sequences). Fasciamirus petersorum sp. nov. is distributed in the southern part of the island and is characterised by a reduced third segment of the labial palps and all abdominal gills divided from the base. The species inhabits slow-flowing aquatic habitats with fine-grained substrate in forest brooks. Simulacala rara sp. nov. is known from a single locality in the northern part of the island and is characterised by narrow and distinctly elongated abdominal gills 1–7. It was collected from fine substrates behind stones in riffles with slightly turbulent flow. Both species were recorded only in areas with ultramafic bedrock.
["Atalophlebiinae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Three new species of Nautilus Linnaeus, 1758 (Mollusca, Cephalopoda) from the Coral Sea and South Pacific
Nautiloids are a charismatic group of marine molluscs best known for their rich fossil record, but today they are restricted to a handful of species in the family Nautilidae from around the Coral Triangle. Recent genetic work has shown a disconnect between traditional species, originally defined on shell characters, but now with new findings from genetic structure of various Nautilus populations. Here, three new species of Nautilus from the Coral Sea and South Pacific region are formally named using observations of shell and soft anatomical data augmented by genetic information: N. samoaensis sp. nov. (from American Samoa), N. vitiensis sp. nov. (from Fiji), and N. vanuatuensis sp. nov. (from Vanuatu). The formal naming of these three species is timely considering the new and recently published information on genetic structure, geographic occurrence, and new morphological characters, including color patterns of shell and soft part morphology of hood, and will aid in managing these possibly endangered animals. As recently proposed from genetic analyses, there is a strong geographic component affecting taxonomy, with the new species coming from larger island groups that are separated by at least 200 km of deep water (greater than 800 m) from other Nautilus populations and potential habitats. Nautilid shells implode at depths greater than 800 m and depth therefore acts as a biogeographical barrier separating these species. This isolation, coupled with the unique, endemic species in each locale, are important considerations for the conservation management of the extant Nautilus species and populations.
["Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

﻿A consolidated phylogeny of snail-eating snakes (Serpentes, Dipsadini), with the description of five new species from Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama
A molecular phylogeny of the Neotropical snail-eating snakes (tribe Dipsadini Bonaparte, 1838) is presented that includes 60 of the 133 species currently recognized. There is morphological and phylogenetic support for four new species of Sibon Fitzinger, 1826 and one of Dipsas Laurenti, 1768, which are described here based on their unique combination of molecular, meristic, and color pattern characteristics. Plesiodipsas Harvey et al., 2008 is designated as a junior synonym of Dipsas and additional evidence is presented to support the transfer of the genus Geophis Wagler, 1830 to the tribe Dipsadini. Two of the subspecies of S. nebulatus (Linnaeus, 1758) are elevated to full species status. Insight into additional undescribed cryptic diversity within the S. nebulatus species complex is provided. Evidence that supports the existence of an undescribed species previously confused with D. temporalis is provided, as well as the first country record of S. ayerbeorum Vera-Pérez, 2019 in Ecuador with a comment on the ontogenetic variation of the latter. Finally, photographs of Colombian, Ecuadorian, and Panamanian snail-eating snakes are provided.
["Caenophidia"]
["Energy and Environment Impacts", "Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems"]

﻿Systematic revision of the snorkel snail genus Rhiostoma Benson, 1860 (Gastropoda, Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoridae) with descriptions of new species
The snorkel snail genus Rhiostoma Benson, 1860 is comprised of terrestrial cyclophorid snails with wide-ranging species diversity and radiation in Southeast Asia. The typical characters of the genus are a depressed shell, a detached and descending portion of the last whorl with a distinctive peristomal breathing device attached, and a calcareous cup-shaped operculum. Herein, we have revised the systematics of extant species based on shell morphology combined with COI barcoding. From these thirty recognised species, twelve are described as new to science: R. ? amarapuraense sp. nov., R. anceyi sp. nov., R. breviocollar sp. nov., R. ebenozostera sp. nov., R. cheliopegma sp. nov., R. furfurosum sp. nov., R. gnomus, sp. nov., R. lannaense sp. nov., R. laoense sp. nov., R. platymorpha sp. nov., R. rhothonotaphrosa sp. nov., and R. tigrina sp. nov. All conchological characters are provided via illustrations of type specimens and living snails, and descriptions of the shells and radulae. Phylogenetic analysis based on partial COI gene sequences strongly supports the designated morphospecies and a monophyletic Rhiostoma, confirming that all pterocyclinid snails with a calcareous, cup-shaped operculum belong to the same clade. A high intra-specific divergence was observed in R. jalorensis and R. housei populations from locations in close proximity, suggesting a lower dispersal and higher level of isolation. The low inter-specific divergence found in R. hainesi, R. samuiense, R. asiphon, and R. rhothonotaphrosa sp. nov. supports their recent diversification and local adaptation, and is congruent with their marked morphological differences. Finally, nine formerly Rhiostoma-placed species were reclassified into either the genus Cyclotus or the genus Opisthoporus.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿A new species of the genus Cephalodella (Rotifera, Monogononta) from Korea, with reports of four additional cephalodellid species
A new monogonont rotifer, Cephalodella binoculata sp. nov., was described from a soil sample collected in Korea. The new species is morphologically similar to C. carina but is distinguished by having two frontal eyespots, a vitellarium with eight nuclei, and the shape of its fulcrum. We also described four other cephalodellid species collected in Korea; Cephalodella auriculata, C. catellina, C. gracilis, and C. tinca. Of these four species, C. gracilis and C. tinca were newly recorded in Korea. We provided the morphological characteristics of the five Cephalodella species along with photographs of trophi observed with a scanning electron microscope. Furthermore, we provided the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene sequences of the five species.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Four new species of the genus Andixius Emeljanov & Hayashi (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae) from China
Four new species of the genus Andixius Emeljanov & Hayashi, 2007 are described and illustrated from China. These are A. flagellihamus Wang & Chen, sp. nov., A. gracilispinus Wang & Chen, sp. nov., A. productus Wang & Chen, sp. nov. and A. truncatus Wang & Chen, sp. nov. Photographs of the new species and an identification key to all Andixius species are provided.
["Andini"]

﻿Species richness under a vertebral stripe: integrative taxonomy uncovers three additional species of Pholidobolus lizards (Sauria, Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) from the north-western Colombian Andes
The systematic study of biodiversity underlies appropriate inference in most other fields of biological research, yet it remains hampered by disagreements on both theoretical and empirical issues such as the species concept and the operational diagnosis of a species. Both become particularly challenging in those lineages where morphological traits are evolutionarily constrained by their adaptive value. For instance, cryptic organisms often conserve or converge in their external appearance, which hinders the recognition of species boundaries. An integrative approach has been adopted to study microgeographic variation in the leaf-litter lizard Pholidobolus vertebralis and test three predictions derived from the evolutionary species concept. Molecular data provided unambiguous evidence of divergence among the three recovered new clades and a common evolutionary history for each of them. The broadly sympatric clades were indeed diagnosable from externally visible traits, such as head scales, adult size, and sexually dimorphic ventral colouration. Also, they barely overlapped on the phenotypic space that summarised 39 morphometric and meristic traits. These clades are described as three species and an available name is suggested for a recovered fourth clade. The geographic distribution of the new and proximate species suggests a role for elevation on evolutionary divergence; it also raises interesting questions on the speciation pattern of an otherwise underestimated cryptic lineage.
["Finance, Taxation, and Governance", "Employment, Labor, and Gender Studies", "Economic and Social Development"]

﻿A new species of the Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus group (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from the uplands of western Thailand
An integrative systematic analysis recovered a new species of the Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus group from the uplands of Thong Pha Phum National Park, Kanchanaburi Province in western Thailand. Cyrtodactylus thongphaphumensis sp. nov. is deeply embedded within the brevipalmatus group, bearing an uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence of 7.6–22.3% from all other species based on a 1,386 base pair segment of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (ND2) and adjacent tRNAs. It is diagnosable from all other species in the brevipalmatus group by statistically significant mean differences in meristic and normalized morphometric characters as well as differences in categorical morphology. A multiple factor analysis recovered its unique and non-overlapping placement in morphospace as statistically significantly different from that of all other species in the brevipalmatus group. The description of this new species contributes to a growing body of literature underscoring the high degree of herpetological diversity and endemism across the sky-island archipelagos of upland montane tropical forest habitats in Thailand, which like all other upland tropical landscapes, are becoming some of the most imperiled ecosystems on the planet.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿A new stream treefrog of the genus Hyloscirtus (Amphibia, Hylidae) from the Río Negro-Sopladora National Park, Ecuador
Recent surveys in the Río Negro-Sopladora National Park revealed a striking new species of Hyloscirtus. The new species is easily diagnosed from all other congeners by its large body size (64.9 mm SVL in adult female); broad dermal fringes in fingers and toes; prepollex not projected into a prepollical spine and hidden under thenar tubercle; dorsum greyish-green, with paler-hued reticulum, yellow spots and black speckles; throat, venter, flanks and hidden surfaces of limbs golden-yellow with large black blotches and spots; fingers, toes and webbing yellow with black bars and spots; iris pale pink with black periphery. It is currently known only from its type locality, in the high montane forest on the southern slopes of the Cordillera Oriental of the Andes, southeastern Ecuador. The new species might be related to the H. larinopygion species group based on its morphology.
["Hylid frogs"]

﻿A remarkable new genus of Thripinae (Thysanoptera, Thripidae) without anteocellar setae from India
Nandithrips pouzolziae gen. et sp. nov. (Thripidae, Thripinae) is described from the flowers of Pouzolzia petandra subsp. wightii (Urticaceae) found in Nandi hills, Karnataka, India. This new genus is characterised by an apomorphy, ocellar setae pairs I and II are both absent, and also has a unique discontinuous pore plate distribution, with a single circular or oval pore plate medially on abdominal sternites II and V–VII of males. Partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (mtCOI) gene sequence of N. pouzolziae was sequenced and the annotated sequence was submitted to NCBI GenBank.
["Bengaluru"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Taxonomic study of the genus Kuvera Distant, 1906 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae) with descriptions of two new species from China
Two new species of genus Kuvera Distant, 1906, Kuvera campylotropa Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. and K. elongata Zhi & Chen, sp. nov., and a new Chinese record, K. basarukini Emeljanov, 1998, are described and illustrated from China. The females of two other species of Kuvera, K. laticeps (Metcalf, 1936) and K. ussuriensis (Vilbaste, 1968), are described for the first time. An updated identification key to Chinese species of Kuvera is given.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

﻿Sinocyclocheilus longicornus (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae), a new species of microphthalmic hypogean fish from Guizhou, Southwest China
Sinocyclocheilus longicornus sp. nov. is described from the Pearl River basin in Hongguo Town, Panzhou City, Guizhou Province, Southwest China. Based on the presence of the long horn-like structure on the back of the head, Sinocyclocheilus longicornus sp. nov. is assigned to the Sinocyclocheilus angularis species group. Sinocyclocheilus longicornus sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of morphological characters: (1) presence of a single, relatively long horn-like structure on the back of the head; (2) pigmentation absent; (3) reduced eyes; (4) dorsal-fin rays, ii, 7; (5) pectoral-fin rays, i, 13; (6) anal-fin rays, iii, 5; (7) pelvic-fin rays, i, 7; (8) lateral line pores 38–49; (9) gill rakers well developed, nine on first gill arch; and (10) tip of adpressed pelvic fin not reaching anus.
["cave fish"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

﻿Catalog of the Hydroptilidae (Insecta, Trichoptera)
The microcaddisfly (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae) fauna is catalogued from a review of more than 1,300 literature citations through the end of 2020 to include 2,665 currently recognized, valid species in six subfamilies and 76 genera. Fourteen subspecies are included in the total as well as 23 fossil species and three fossil genera. The family Ptilocolepidae (Trichoptera), also covered in this catalogue, comprises 19 valid species in two genera; two subspecies and two fossil species are included in the total. The monotypic genus Eutonella, currently considered incertae sedis within Trichoptera, was formerly placed in Hydroptilidae and is also included in this catalogue. Genus-group and species-group synonyms are listed. Information on the type locality, type depository, sex of type, distribution by country, and other relevant taxonomic or biological information is included for each nominal species. Summary information on taxonomy, phylogeny, distribution, immature stages, and biology are provided for each subfamily, tribe, and genus where known. An index to all nominal taxa is provided to facilitate catalog use.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿Chasitermes pax, a new genus and species of soldierless termite (Termitidae, Apicotermitinae) from the island of Trinidad
Chasitermes pax Scheffrahn & Carrijo gen. et sp. nov. is described from workers collected from a single colony in the Northern Range of Trinidad. The shape and texture of the unsclerotized enteric valve, tubular shape of the enteric valve seating, and prominent spherical mesenteric tongue of C. pax are the diagnostic characters for both the genus and species. A Bayesian phylogenetic analysis using the COI gene and including all neotropical Apicotermitinae genera described to date supports the new genus as a distinct terminal.
["Anoplotermes-group"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Scratching the surface: a new species of Bent-toed gecko (Squamata, Gekkonidae, Cyrtodactylus) from Timor-Leste of the darmandvillei group marks the potential for future discoveries
A new species of limestone-dwelling Bent-toed gecko (genus Cyrtodactylus) is described from Nino Konis Santana National Park in the far-east region of Timor-Leste. Both genetic and morphological data strongly support the evolutionary distinctness of the new species, which we describe herein as Cyrtodactylus santana sp. nov. Phylogenetic analysis based on the ND2 mitochondrial gene inferred the new species as part of the C. darmandvillei group with close genetic affinities to C. batucolus, C. seribuatensis, C. petani, C. sadleiri, and two undescribed lineages from the Moluccas in Indonesia. The new species represents the first species of Cyrtodactylus identified at the species level from Timor-Leste and fills an important gap in our understanding of the biogeography and evolutionary history of Cyrtodactylus especially in the Wallacean region. Our results strongly suggest that the diversity of Cyrtodactylus in Wallacea is still underestimated and many more unnamed species remain to be described.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿More than 80 years without new taxa: analysis of morphological variation among members of Mexican Aeneolamia Fennah (Hemiptera, Cercopidae) support a new species in the genus
The genus Aeneolamia includes eight described species and 32 subspecies widely distributed in America. In Mexico, two species (A. contigua and A. albofasciata) and one subspecies (A. contigua campecheana) are recognized. In a recent study of Cercopidae in Mexico, a new species of Aeneolamia was noted from Oaxaca, Mexico based on body color and the ornamentation patterns of tegmen, without a formal taxonomic description. To test the hypothesis of an extant new taxon within the genus a comprehensive analysis of intraspecific morphological variation from 46 morphological features was performed, four related to tegmen color patterns in both sexes, six to male genitalia, and 36 continuous characters measured in specimens of both sexes of Mexican Aeneolamia from several geographical localities using traditional univariate, multivariate morphometric, and geometric morphometric methods. This is the first time that this approach has been used in Cercopidae. Aeneolamia danpecki Castro, Armendáriz & Utrera, sp. nov. from Oaxaca showed pronounced morphological differences in tegmen coloration patterns, the shape of different elements of the male genitalia, and body measurements compared to the other Mexican members of Aeneolamia; therefore, it is described as a new species.
["Aeneolamia aff. albofasciata"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

﻿Four new species of cave-adapted pseudoscorpions (Pseudoscorpiones, Pseudotyrannochthoniidae) from Guizhou, China
Four new troglomorphic pseudotyrannochthoniid pseudoscorpion species collected from karst caves in Guizhou Province are described with detailed diagnoses and illustrations: Allochthonius bainiensis sp. nov. from Liangfeng Cave (Xishui County), Allochthonius pandus sp. nov. from Daozuo Cave (Xishui County), Allochthonius xinqiaoensis sp. nov. from Sanjie Cave (Fenggang County), and Spelaeochthonius wulibeiensis sp. nov. from Wulibei Cave (Weining County). Spelaeochthonius wulibeiensis sp. nov. represents the first record of the genus in China. The diagnostic features of these four new cave-adapted (troglomorphic) species are presented and discussed, as well as compared with closely related species. The data on their distribution, habitat and ecology of the species are also given.
["Allochthonius"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Tadpoles of four sympatric megophryinid frogs (Anura, Megophryidae, Megophryinae) from Mangshan in southern China
Sympatric distribution and potentially long larval development time make the assignment of tadpoles confusing in Asian-horned frogs of the subfamily Megophryinae. In this study, we used molecular data to identify four syntopic megophryinid tadpoles from Mangshan on the border between Hunan and Guangdong provinces in southern China: Brachytarsophrys popei, Boulenophrys shimentaina, Bo. cf. ombrophila, and Bo. nanlingensis. A detailed re-description of the Br. popei tadpoles is provided as well as the first descriptions of three Boulenophrys tadpoles based on external morphology and coloration. An effort is attempted to distinguish these tadpoles by coloration patterns: the dorsal pattern, ventral pattern, and pattern on tail are useful for field identification of these tadpoles. However, the variation of color pattern could sometimes make species delineation difficult. Researchers are encouraged to document coloration in life with photographs and the collection of tadpoles of different development stages and sizes advocated in order to better understand how color may change during larval development.
["Amphibian"]

﻿Three Loxocaudinae species (Ostracoda, Podocopida) from South Korea
For many ostracod groups in Korea, published records are missing or are very limited. Loxocaudinae is one such subfamily, with only one named species, Loxocauda orientalis Schornikov, 2011 reported from Korea. Having fewer than 50 species, this subfamily can be considered a small ostracod group, with most of the species known only by their shell morphology. The diagnoses of genera are based on the shell characters that are often homoplastic, and soft body appendages that are difficult to observe, such as the mandibular exopodite. Because of this, the validity of the entire subfamily and some of its genera have been questioned. Here three Loxocaudinae species were collected from the marine macrobenthic assemblages from Korea. Two are new and belong to the genus Glacioloxoconcha Hartmann, 1990, previously known only from Antarctica: Glacioloxoconcha jeongokensis sp. nov. and Glacioloxoconcha jisepoensis sp. nov. Loxocauda orientalis is briefly redescribed, with some of the populations having unusual morphological features. COI and 18S rRNA sequences of all three species are provided and the latter marker used to assess the position of the subfamily within the family Loxoconchidae and the superfamily Cytheroidea. The resulting tree shows that within the family Loxoconchidae, the genera Glacioloxoconcha and Loxocauda Schornikov, 1969 are the most closely related, with very shallow but well-supported branches. Polyphyletic and paraphyletic natures of several Cytheroidea families are discussed, inferred from the reconstructed phylogeny.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿The subfamily Dermestinae (Coleoptera, Dermestidae) from Saudi Arabia
In this study, the fauna of Saudi Arabian Dermestinae (Coleoptera, Dermestidae) is summarised. Six Dermestes species and single species from two Marioutini genera, Mariouta and Rhopalosilpha, are reported. Dermestes (Dermestinus) undulatus Brahm, 1790 and Dermestes (Dermestes) haemorrhoidalis Küster, 1852 are newly recorded from Saudi Arabia. A list of Dermestinae species from the Arabian Peninsula is provided with their distributions.

﻿Two new species of the genus Symphylella (Symphyla, Scolopendrellidae) from China and the significance of the frons chaetotaxy
Symphylella macrochaeta sp. nov. and Symphylella longispina sp. nov. from China are described and illustrated. Symphylella macrochaeta sp. nov. is characterized by 10 extremely long macrosetae arranged as 4/4/2 on the frons, tergites with broad triangular processes, and 4+4 setae on the first tergite. Symphylella longispina sp. nov. is characterized by a thick and prominent labrum, distinctly long proximal spines on the mandible, eight macrosetae arranged as 4/2/2 on frons, 3+3 setae on first tergite, and narrow triangular processes on the tergites. Detailed comparisons of the new species with similar species are presented. In addition, the frons chaetotaxy of Symphylella is illustrated and discussed for the first time and proposed as a significant diagnostic character for the taxonomic study of the genus.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Two new species of Bryocamptus (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Canthocamptidae) from the Russian Arctic and comparison with Bryocamptus minutus (Claus, 1863)
Two new species of Bryocamptus Chappuis, 1929 from the Russian Arctic from the Bryocamptus minutus species group are described: Bryocamptus putoranus sp. nov. and Bryocamptus abramovae sp. nov. A complete morphological comparison of the new species with the type species Bryocamptus minutus (Claus, 1863) was carried out. Significant interspecific differences were shown at the level of microcharacters, such as integumental sensillae and pores, ornamentation of segments of mouthparts and swimming legs, and pores on swimming legs. A significant correlation has also been shown in the shape of the caudal rami of the females and the antennules of the males, which is likely caused by an evolutionary sexual arms race. Bryocamptus putoranus sp. nov. and B. minutus have a similar structure of caudal rami, but completely different male antennules, which may indicate a convergent origin of modifications and highlights the importance of depicting male antennules in the species descriptions.
["Arctic invertebrates"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿New descriptions and new records of the braconid parasitoids subfamilies Doryctinae and Rhyssalinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) in the fauna of South Korea
Five doryctine species, Aivalykus kseniae sp. nov., Dendrosotinus gajwadongus sp. nov., Doryctes (Plyctes) jinjuensis sp. nov., Neoheterospilus (Neoheterospilus) geochangus sp. nov., and Spathius fumipennis sp. nov., are described as new for sciences from South Korea. Five doryctine genera, Aivalykus Nixon, Dendrosoter Wesmael, Dendrosotinus Telenga, Guaygata Marsh and Pareucorystes Tobias, and fifteen species are recorded in the fauna of the Korean Peninsula for the first time. Additionally, two genera from the subfamily Rhyssalinae, Proacrisis Tobias and Histeromerus Wesmael, and two species, Proacrisis orientalis Tobias, 1983 and Histeromerus orientalis Chou & Chou, 1991, are recorded in the fauna of Korea for the first time.
["Descriptions"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿Comparative mitogenomics and phylogenetic analyses of the genus Menida (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomidae)
In order to explore the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationship of the genus Menida Motschulsky, 1861 and reveal the molecular evolution of the family Pentatomidae, subfamily Pentatominae, complete mitochondrial genomes of three species of Menida were sequenced, and the phylogenetic relationships of tribes within the subfamily Pentatominae were studied based on these results. The mitochondrial genomes of Menida musiva (Jakovlev, 1876), M. lata Yang, 1934, and M. metallica Hsiao & Cheng, 1977 were 16,663 bp, 16,463 bp, and 16,418 bp, respectively, encoding 37 genes and including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and a control region. The mitochondrial genome characteristics of Menida were compared and analyzed, and the phylogenetic tree of the Pentatominae was constructed based on the mitochondrial genome datasets using Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (MI) methods. The results showed that gene arrangements, nucleotide composition, codon preference, gene overlaps, and RNA secondary structures were highly conserved within the Menida and had more similar characteristics in Pentatominae. The phylogenetic analysis shows a highly consistent topological structure based on BI and ML methods, which supported that the genus Menida belongs to the Pentatominae and is closely related to Hoplistoderini. The examined East Asian species of Menida form a monophyletic group with the internal relationships: (M. musiva + (M. lata + (M. violacea + M. metallica))). In addition, these results support the monophyly of Eysarcorini and Strachiini. Placosternum and Cappaeini are stable sister groups in the evolutionary branch of Pentatominae. The results of this study enrich the mitochondrial genome databases of Pentatominae and have significance for further elucidation of the phylogenetic relationships within the Pentatominae.
["Menida"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research"]

﻿Taxonomic revision of the genus Phylacastus Fairmaire (Tenebrionidae, Eurynotina): shortfalls of anatomical nomenclature with notes on aedeagal homology
The genus Phylacastus Fairmaire (Tenebrionidae, Blaptinae, Platynotini, Eurynotina) is revised. Two new species and one new synonymy are presented along with new diagnoses, descriptions, a distribution map, and key to species. The resulting species of Phylacastus are: P. ancoralium sp. nov., P. crypticoides Koch (= P. pretoriensis Koch syn. nov.), P. makskacymirowi sp. nov., P. rhodesianus Koch, and P. striolatus Fairmaire. Lectotypes are designated for the type species, P. striolatus, to fix the taxonomic status of the species and genus. As a result of examination and subsequent description of P. ancoralium sp. nov., a brief review and treatment of aedeagal morphology is presented. The nomenclature (“clavae” versus “laciniae”) and phylogenetic occurrence of accessory structures of the paramere-median lobe area within Blaptinae Leach and Adelinina LeConte (Diaperinae, Diaperini) are discussed. New descriptive terminology (i.e., ancora [singular] and ancorae [plural]) is proposed for these aedeagal structures in Blaptinae to clarify their function and resolve past ambiguities. The morphology within representatives of Adelina Dejean, Alphitophagus Stephens, Gnatocerus Thunberg, and Sitophagus Mulsant is also briefly contrasted and outlined.
["Amphidorini"]

﻿First report of the Euconnus Thomson subgenus Cladoconnus Reitter in the New World, represented by thirteen new Appalachian species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae)
Thirteen new species of Euconnus Thomson (Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae: Glandulariini) are described from the southern Appalachian Mts, USA: Euconnus megalops sp. nov., E. vexillus sp. nov., E. cumberlandus sp. nov., E. vetustus sp. nov., E. adversus sp. nov., E. astrus sp. nov., E. cultellus sp. nov., E. falcatus sp. nov., E. cataloochee sp. nov., E. kilmeri sp. nov., E. draco sp. nov., E. tusquitee sp. nov., and E. attritus sp. nov. These share a number of morphological characters with the Old World subgenus Cladoconnus Reitter, representing a diversification of species distinct from anything previously known from the western hemisphere. Most of the species occur at higher elevations, some at the tops of the region’s highest mountains, and a few are single-peak endemics. No females of these species are winged, and in several species neither sex is winged. A preliminary phylogeny suggests the wingless species represent a clade within a clade of wing-dimorphic species.

﻿Ilyocypris leptolinea Wang & Zhai, sp. nov., an ostracod (Ostracoda, Crustacea) from the late Quaternary of Inner Mongolia, northern China
Ilyocypris leptolinea Wang & Zhai, sp. nov. is described from late Quaternary sediments in central-eastern Inner Mongolia, northern China. The new species, which has a carapace shape and pitted surface typical of the genus, is characterised by double rows of fine, densely arranged marginal ripplets, separated by an inner list, along both anterior and posterior calcified inner lamellae in the left valve. Outline analysis and Principal Component Analysis indicate that its morpho-space overlaps with I. bradyi Sars, 1890, I. japonica Okubo, 1990, and I. mongolica Martens, 1991, which have living or fossil representatives in Inner Mongolia, but it is clearly discriminated from I. innermongolica Zhai & Xiao, 2013. Judging from the relatively coarse lithology dominated by silt and sand, and the lack of accompanying brackish-water ostracods, I. leptolinea Wang & Zhai, sp. nov. may have lived in a relatively shallow freshwater lake. It perhaps can be added to the list of species that went extinct during the Quaternary, but the timing and process of extinction await further investigation.
["Fossil"]
["Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Marine and environmental studies", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

﻿On eleven new species of the orb-weaver spider genus Araneus Clerck, 1757 (Araneae, Araneidae) from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China
Eleven new species of Araneus Clerck, 1757 from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China are described: Araneus arcuatus sp. nov. (♂♀), A. bidentatus sp. nov. (♂♀), A. bidentatoides sp. nov. (♂♀), A. complanatus sp. nov. (♂♀), A. corrugis sp. nov. (♀), A. cucullatus sp. nov. (♀), A. minisculus sp. nov. (♂), A. ovoideus sp. nov. (♀), A. pseudodigitatus sp. nov. (♂♀), A. semiorbiculatus sp. nov. (♀), and A. tetracanthus sp. nov. (♂♀). Diagnostic photographs of the habitus and copulatory organs are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Abyssal fauna of polymetallic nodule exploration areas, eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean: Amphinomidae and Euphrosinidae (Annelida, Amphinomida)
This is a contribution in a series of taxonomic publications on benthic fauna of polymetallic nodule fields in the eastern abyssal Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). The material was collected during environmental surveys targeting exploration contract areas ‘UK-1’, ‘OMS’ and ‘NORI-D’, as well as an Area of Particular Environmental Interest, ‘APEI-6’. The annelid families Amphinomidae and Euphrosinidae are investigated here. Taxonomic data are presented for six species from 41 CCZ-collected specimens as identified by a combination of morphological and genetic approaches; of the six species, three are here described as new, one species is likely to be new but in too poor condition to be formalised and the two others likely belong to known species. Description of three new species Euphrosinella georgievae sp. nov., Euphrosinopsis ahearni sp. nov., and Euphrosinopsis halli sp. nov. increases the number of formally described new annelid species from the targeted areas to 21 and CCZ-wide to 52. Molecular data suggest that four of the species reported here are known from CCZ only, but within CCZ they have a wide distribution. In contrast, the species identified as Bathychloeia cf. sibogae Horst, 1910 was found to have a wide distribution within the Pacific based on both morphological and molecular data, using comparative material from the abyssal South Pacific. Bathychloeia cf. balloniformis Böggemann, 2009 was found to be restricted to APEI-6 based on DNA data available from CCZ specimens only, but morphological data from other locations suggest potentially a wide abyssal distribution. The genus Euphrosinopsis was previously known only from Antarctic waters, and Euphrosinella georgievae sp. nov. was recovered as a sister taxon to the Antarctic specimens of Euphrosinella cf. cirratoformis in our molecular phylogenetic analysis, strengthening the hypothesised link between the deep-sea and Antarctic benthic fauna.
["Amphinomida"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

﻿Sympatry of genetic lineages of Parisotoma notabilis s. l. (Collembola, Isotomidae) in the East European Plain
Parisotoma notabilis (Schaeffer, 1896) is one of the most abundant eurytopic species of springtails in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, and is often used as a model species for studies on the genetics of soil microarthropod populations. Six genetic lineages (L0, L1, L2, L3, L4-Saltzwedel, L4-Hebert) are known which are distributed mainly parapatrically in Western and Central Europe. Individuals of P. notabilis from 21 locations on the East European Plain were analyzed. Three genetic lineages were found: L1, L2, L4-Hebert. In contrast to Western and Central Europe, the coexistence of two or three lineages was revealed in about half of the locations on the East European Plain. The most diverse genetic composition of P. notabilis populations was noted in natural forests and slightly disturbed habitats, while the least diverse was in places with a high anthropogenic influence.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿The immatures of the New World treehopper tribes Acutalini Fowler and Micrutalini Haupt (Hemiptera, Membracidae, Smiliinae)
The nymphs of Acutalis Fairmaire, Bordoniana Sakakibara, Thrasymedes Kirkaldy, and Micrutalis Fowler are described and illustrated (Bordoniana and Thrasymedes for the first time). The nymphs of all four genera are exceedingly cryptic. The nymphs of some species lack scoli on the head and pronotum but all have paired scoli on the meso- and metathoracic nota and abdominal segments III–IX. Some species also have lateral rows of enlarged chalazae on the abdomen, and even large scoli ventrolaterally—the latter condition is unique within Smiliinae. The eggs are deposited in stems (not in exposed masses) and nymphs are solitary and not ant-attended. The fifth instar nymphs of Micrutalini range in length from 3.0–3.5 mm, much smaller than the fifth instars of most other treehoppers.
["Acutalis"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

﻿New species and new records of Monohelea Kieffer (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) from Brazil
Two new Brazilian species of Monohelea Kieffer are described and illustrated based on male specimens, Monohelea capixaba sp. nov. from Espírito Santo and Monohelea coimbrai sp. nov. from Rio de Janeiro. New records for M. aguirrei Tavares & Souza, M. archibaldoi Tavares & Souza and M. maculipennis (Coquillet) are given based on specimens from Espírito Santo (all three species) and Amapá (M. maculipennis only). All specimens are deposited in the Ceratopogonidae Collection of Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Brazil.
["Aquatic"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

﻿New records of Curculionoidea from Newfoundland and Labrador, with the first records of Orthochaetes setiger ([Beck]) (Curculionidae, Curculioninae, Styphlini) for North America
Thirty species of Curculionoidea (28 Curculionidae and one each of Brentidae and Nemonychidae) are reported as new records from the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, most of them from the island of Newfoundland. As well, 13 species of Curculionidae and one of Brentidae previously recorded from Newfoundland are newly reported from Labrador, and one Curculionidae previously recorded from Labrador is newly reported from Newfoundland. The Palearctic species, Orthochaetes setiger ([Beck]), is herein reported as a new Canadian and North American record, with specimens documented from Newfoundland and British Columbia. Additions to the primary key for North American weevils are provided to help identify this genus among the North American fauna. Of the species of Curculionoidea previously recorded from the province in published literature, there is uncertain evidence for the occurrence of 14 species in the province as a whole or in the Labrador portion. Seven species are hereby removed from the faunal list for the province. One of those, Trachodes hispidus (Linnaeus), is also removed from the Canadian faunal list. The 134 species of Curculionoidea recorded from NL are listed and a brief synopsis of the fauna provided.
["Adventive species"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿Description of two new species of the genus Spinirta Jin & Zhang, 2020 (Araneae, Corinnidae) from southern China
Two new species of Spinirta Jin & Zhang, 2020 (Araneae: Corinnidae) from Jiangxi Province, China are described here: S. sanxiandian sp. nov. (♂♀) and S. sishuishan sp. nov. (♂). Detailed descriptions and photographs of the new species are provided.
["Corinnid"]

﻿Nineteen new species of Desmopachria Babington, 1841 (Coleoptera, Adephaga, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Hyphydrini) with notes on the taxonomy of the genus
Nineteen new species of Desmopachria Babington, 1841 are described from multiple species groups. Two new species groups are erected, the Desmopachria apicodente species group and the Desmopachria bifurcita species group. Desmopachria divergens sp. nov. (Venezuela), Desmopachria lineata sp. nov. (Venezuela), Desmopachria surinamensis sp. nov. (Suriname), and Desmopachria tenua sp. nov. (Guyana) are described in Desmopachria but are not assigned to a species group. Desmopachria apicodente sp. nov. (Guyana, Venezuela), Desmopachria lateralis sp. nov. (Venezuela), and Desmopachria tumida sp. nov. (Venezuela) are described in the new Desmopachria apicodente species group and are the only members of the group. Desmopachria bifurcita sp. nov. (Peru), and Desmopachria lata sp. nov. (Brazil) are described in the new Desmopachria bifurcita group. Other members of the Desmopachria bifurcita group are Desmopachria bifasciata Zimmermann, Desmopachria bolivari Miller, Desmopachria ovalis Sharp, and Desmopachria varians (each previously “ungrouped”). Desmopachria pseudocavia sp. nov. (Venezuela) is described in the Desmopachria convexa-signata species group. Desmopachria wolfei sp. nov. (Venezuela) is described in the Desmopachria nitida species group. Desmopachria angulata sp. nov. (Guyana, Suriname), Desmopachria emarginata sp. nov. (Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela), Desmopachria imparis sp. nov. (Guyana), Desmopachria impunctata sp. nov. (Suriname, Venezuela), and Desmopachria truncata sp. nov. (Guyana, Suriname) are described in the Desmopachria portmanni-aldessa species group. Desmopachria bisulcata sp. nov. (Suriname), and Desmopachria irregulara sp. nov. (Venezuela) are described in the Desmopachria portmanni-portmanni species group. Desmopachria robusta sp. nov. (Venezuela) is described in the Desmopachria striola species group. A key to the species groups is included. Male genitalia are figured for all new species and dorsal habitus images are provided for most new species.
["Diving water beetles"]

﻿Two new species and two new records of Homidia (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from China
Homidia, one of the largest genera of the family Entomobryidae, is widely distributed in China. To date, 46 species of this genus are present in China and account for approximately 60 % of all known species of the genus. In the present paper, two new species of Homidia are described from China: H. acutus sp. nov. and H. changensis sp. nov. The former is discriminated by the brown to blue-violet pigment present on whole dorsal body and by pointed tenent hairs. The latter is characterised by having only scattered traces of brown pigment on tergites, and by the special macrochaetal formula of coxae. Additionally, two known species of the genus, H. linhaiensis Shi, Pan & Qi, 2009 and H. socia Denis, 1929, are reported from Jiangxi Province for the first time, and some of their taxonomic characters are described. A key to the Chinese species of the genus is provided.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿A new species of Chrysotus Meigen (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) from soybean fields in South Dakota, USA
A new long-legged fly species, Chrysotus soya sp. nov. (Diptera: Dolichopodidae), is described and illustrated from specimens collected in soybean fields near Brookings, South Dakota, USA. The abundance of this species in soybeans suggests it plays an important role as a beneficial predator.
["Diaphorinae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

﻿A widespread new genus of Baetidae (Baetidae, Ephemeroptera) from Southeast Asia
A reinvestigation of type and other material of Baetis javanicus Ulmer, 1913 and Baetis sabahensis Müller-Liebenau, 1984, together with new material from Southeast Asia revealed a new genus, Branchiobaetis gen. nov. The above species are formally assigned to the new genus Branchiobaetis gen. nov. It is characterized by the presence of accessory gills ventrally near fore coxa and at the base of maxillae, a peculiar folding of the gonostyli developing under the cuticle of last instar male larvae, together with a unique combination of other larval characters. Besides the two formerly described species, five new species are identified using a combination of morphology and molecular characters (COI, Kimura 2-parameter distances), four species from Sumatra and one from the Philippines. They are described and illustrated at the larval stage. Additionally, a complementary description of larva and adult stages of the generic type species B. javanicus comb. nov. as well as the first description of the eggs are provided. Furthermore, new reports of B. javanicus comb. nov. and B. sabahensis comb. nov. are indicated. The distribution of Branchiobaetis gen. nov. includes the Indonesian Sunda Islands, Borneo, and the Philippines. A key to the larval stage of all species is provided.
["Accessory gills"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Key to the Chinese species of the subgenus Sphodromimus Casale, 1984 (Carabidae, Chlaeniini, Chlaenius) with descriptions of two new species
The subgenus Sphodromimus Casale, 1984 in China has been studied, revealing two new species: Chlaenius (Sphodromimus) caperatus sp. nov. from Hunan Province and Chlaenius (Sphodromimus) yinggelingensis sp. nov. from Hainan Province. A new replacement name is proposed for C. (Sphodromimus) wrasei (Kirschenhofer, 2003) [nec Chlaenius (Lithochlaenius) wrasei Kirschenhofer, 1997]: Chlaenius (Sphodromimus) davidi nom. nov.. The status of Chlaenius (Sphodromimus) enleensis Mandl, 1992 is upgraded from subspecies to full species, and Chlaenius (Sphodromimus) tamdaoensis Kirschenhofer, 2003 is proposed as its new synonym. Chlaenius (Sphodromimus) pilosus (Casale, 1984) is reported as a new record from China. A key to all known species of the subgenus Sphodromimus from China is provided.

﻿A new species of Nidirana (Anura, Ranidae) from northern Guangxi, China
A new species of music frog, Nidirana guibeiensis sp. nov., is described from northern Guangxi, China. Based on two mtDNA fragments analyzed, phylogenetic trees reveal that N. guibeiensis sp. nov. is most closely related to N. leishanensis. However, the new species can be identified by conspicuous diagnostic morphological characteristics as well as bioacoustics. In contrast to the known Nidirana species, the advertisement calls of the new species can be divided into three types, calls with one, two, and three notes. In addition, the new species has nest construction behavior, which is inconsistent with N. leishanensis. Nidirana guibeiensis sp. nov. occurs in paddy fields or still pools at 300–1300 m a.s.l.

﻿A new species of Andricus Hartig, 1840 (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae) from China, with references to DNA taxonomy and Wolbachia infection
In the present paper, a new species of cynipid gall wasp, Andricus elodeoides Liu & Pang, is described from several provinces in southern China. The new species is closely related to the recently redescribed A. mairei (Kieffer, 1906). In addition to differences in adult and gall morphology, the new species is also readily separated by COI sequences, with a 6.2–8.9% genetic distance between populations of the new species and those of A. mairei. A contrasting difference in sex ratios was also observed between the two species, with A. elodeoides extremely female-biased (95.5–97.8% female) while A. mairei male-biased to more balanced (5.4–43.5% female). PCR screening for Wolbachia infection further revealed contrasting infection rates between populations of A. elodeoides and A. mairei: the Wolbachia infection rate was 0% in A. elodeoides and 100% in A. mairei. Cytoplasmic incompatibility induced by Wolbachia is proposed as a potential mechanism of speciation of the sympatric A. elodeoides and A. mairei.
["Andricus elodeoides"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿Revision of Gymnoscirtetes (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Melanoplinae): a genus endemic to the grasslands of the southeastern North American Coastal Plain
Gymnoscirtetes is endemic to the southeastern portion of the North American Coastal Plain and previously comprised two species: G. pusillus Scudder, 1897 and G. morsei Hebard, 1918. Here, this genus is revised based on male genital morphology and geographic data, and four new species are described: G. georgiaensis sp. nov., G. pageae sp. nov., G. rex sp. nov., and G. wadeorum sp. nov. Gymnoscirtetes is primarily associated with mesic grasslands such as pitcher plant bogs, flatwoods, and the edges of seasonal ponds, but can be found less commonly in a variety of other grasslands.
["Alabama"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿A new eyeless species of Nereis (Annelida, Nereididae) from deep-sea sediments of the northern South China Sea
A variety of nereidid species have been reported from the South China Sea, although little is known about the deep-sea species in this area. Recently, two specimens belonging to a novel nereidid polychaete were collected from a sedimentary habitat during an environmental survey to a deep-sea basin where cold seeps occur. This new species, Nereis tricirrata sp. nov., is described herein, based on morphological and molecular analyses. The most noteworthy feature is the absence of eyes on the prostomium; it can be distinguished from other eyeless Nereis species by the arrangement of conical paragnaths on the pharynx, the nature of homogomph falcigers and the shape of notopodial lobes in posterior chaetigers. The reconstructed phylogenetic tree, using concatenated sequences of mtCOI, 16S, and 18S rRNA, showed that all Nereis species included in this study form a monophyletic clade with full support. The mtCOI-based interspecific comparisons revealed a high genetic divergence (23.1%–37.3% K2P) from four-eyed Nereis species with the available sequences. This is the first record of an eyeless Nereis species in the South China Sea.
["Nereidiformia"]

﻿Diversity underfoot of agromyzids (Agromyzidae, Diptera) mining thalli of liverworts and hornworts
Agromyzidae is a dipteran family that has diversified as internal plant feeders. Although most agromyzid species feed on herbaceous angiosperms, only a limited number of species has been recorded as miners of bryophytes. Extensive searches and rearing of bryophytivores in the Japanese Archipelago were made, resulting in that thallus-mining agromyzids are overwhelmingly widespread and diverse on thalloid liverworts and hornworts. By examining the morphology of adult flies, it was revealed that the agromyzid fauna comprise 39 species, of which 37 species are newly described. All the species are assigned to the genus Phytoliriomyza Hendel based on some shared morphological character states as follows: costa reaching M1; orbital setulae minute and erect (rarely proclinate); male epandrium with combs of fused tubercle-like setae and/or hypertrophied arms bearing tubercle-like setae; male distiphallus comprising a pair of stout, extended tubules; female cercus with two stout, apical, trichoid sensilla. Of the 39 agromyzid species in Japan, 36 species are associated with liverworts: 5 spp. on Marchantia (Marchantiaceae), 2 spp. on Dumortiera (Dumortieraceae), 3 spp. on Plagiochasma, 1 sp. on Asterella, 6 spp. on Reboulia (Aytoniaceae), 1 sp. on Wiesnerella (Wiesnerellaceae), 15 spp. on Conocephalum (Conocephalaceae), and 3 spp. on Riccia (Ricciaceae). Three species are associated with hornworts: 1 sp. on Folioceros (Anthocerotaceae), 1 sp. on Megaceros (Dendrocerotaceae), and 1 sp. on Notothylas, Phaeoceros (Notothyladaceae), and Anthoceros (Anthocerotaceae). The results suggest that 37 of the 39 species are host-specific at least to plant genus level, and that the inter-specific differences in male genitalia and color patterns of scutum, antenna, and maxillary palpus have contributed to reproductive isolation on the bryophytes that the flies share.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Three new species of the genus Perinereis (Annelida, Nereididae) from Egyptian coasts
Despite being one of the most common groups of polychaetes on intertidal shores, the genus Perinereis (Nereididae) is comparatively poorly known taxonomically, with confusion still existing due to the lack of comprehensive systematic studies. The systematics of Perinereis species from the intertidal Egyptian coasts of the Red Sea, Gulf of Suez and Suez Canal have been investigated using morphology and the mitochondrial barcoding marker cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI). New sequence data was obtained for 102 Perinereis specimens and analysis included all publicly available COI data from other Perinereis species. The COI data indicate that monophyly of the P. nuntia species group is doubtful, as specimens identified in this species group from south-eastern Asia and Australia form a monophyletic group exclusive of the three new species described in this study from the Red Sea region. A morphometric character set (26 characters) was used to identify and characterize each specimen in the study. Three distinct morphospecies belonging to the P. nuntia species group were found, each differentiated by the number and type of paragnaths on pharyngeal areas V and VI, relative sizes of parapodial lobes, type of notochaetae and neurochaetae, and form of the neurochaetal falciger blades. The three morphospecies were well supported by COI data: two of the three new species, Perinereis suezensis sp. nov. and Perinereis fayedensis sp. nov., are closely similar to P. nuntia sensu stricto, while the other, Perinereis damietta sp. nov., is similar to P. heterodonta. The new species are described and illustrated, and bring the number of species in Perinereis to 97. The new species are compared and contrasted to the closely similar P. heterodonta, P. nuntia and other congeners from the region.
["Integrative taxonomy"]

﻿Japanese species of Ormosia Rondani (Diptera, Limoniidae): revision of the subgenera Oreophila Lackschewitz and Parormosia Alexander
Japanese species of the subgenera Oreophila Lackschewitz and Parormosia Alexander of the genus Ormosia Rondani (Limoniidae) are revised. Two new species Ormosia (Oreophila) komazawai Kato & Kolcsár, sp. nov. and Ormosia (Parormosia) phalara Kato & Kolcsár, sp. nov. are described. The identities of all Japanese species of the two subgenera are clarified and redescribed with images of habitus and wings, and drawings of male and female terminalia. The first DNA barcode sequences of the species Ormosia (Parormosia) diversipes Alexander and Ormosia (Parormosia) phalara Kato & Kolcsár, sp. nov. are also provided. A key to, and distribution maps of, the Japanese species are provided.
["Crane flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

﻿A further step towards the characterisation of Terebellides (Annelida, Trichobranchidae) diversity in the Northeast Atlantic, with the description of a new species
Several new species of genus Terebellides Sars, 1835 (Annelida, Trichobranchidae) have been recently described from the Northeast Atlantic Ocean after the detection of a large complex of species based on DNA sequence data from previous research. Some of those species (belonging to the so-called Group A) have already been described elsewhere. In this paper, we revise several Terebellides clades belonging to Groups B, C and D resulting in the identification of five nominal species: Terebellides gracilis Malm, 1874, Terebellides atlantis Williams, 1984, Terebellides williamsae Jirkov, 1989, Terebellides irinae Gagaev, 2009, and Terebellides shetlandica Parapar, Moreira & O’Reilly, 2016, plus one new species described here as Terebellides lavesquei sp. nov. All these species are characterised by a combination of morphological features complemented with a nucleotide diagnostic approach (specific COI nucleotides in the alignment position). Morphological characters used to discriminate between taxa refer to the branchial shape, presence/absence of ciliated papillae dorsal to thoracic notopodia and the morphology of thoracic and abdominal uncinal teeth. An updated identification key to all described species of this genus in NE Atlantic waters is also included.

﻿Revision of Sphenoraia Clark, 1865 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae) from China, with descriptions of two new species
In this study, ten species of Sphenoraia Clack, 1865 are recognized and re-described: Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) anjiensis Yang & Li, 1998, Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) berberii Jiang, 1992, Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) duvivieri (Laboissière, 1925), Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) haizhuensis Yang, 2021, Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) micans (Fairmaire, 1888), Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) nebulosa (Gyllenhal, 1808), Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) nigromaculata Jiang, 1992, Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) punctipennis Jiang, 1992, Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) rutilans (Hope, 1831), and Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) yajiangensis Jiang, 1992. Two new species, Sphenoraia (Sphenoraia) decemmaculata Feng, Yang & Liu, sp. nov. and Sphenoraia (Sphenoraioides) flavomarginata Feng, Yang & Li, sp. nov., are described. Additionally, Sphenoraia (Sphenoraia) cupreata Jacoby, 1890 and Sphenoraia (Sphenoraia) nigra Wang, Li & Yang, 2000 are transferred from Sphenoraia to Gallerucida. A key to the 12 Chinese species of Sphenoraia is given.
["Leaf beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Pullimosina (Pullimosina) turfosa sp. nov. and other Sphaeroceridae (Diptera) from peat bogs in the North Caucasus (Russia)
The first data about Sphaeroceridae occurring on eight montane and foothill peat bogs of various types in the North Caucasus (Russia) are presented. A total of 38 species has been recorded and their affinity to peat-bog habitats is discussed. A single species is classified as a tyrphobiont, viz. the strongly brachypterous Pullimosina (Pullimosina) turfosa sp. nov. being strictly associated with Sphagnum hummocks in peat bogs. This new species is described and illustrated in detail and its relationships, biology, and wing reduction are discussed. Only three species are considered tyrphophilous or probably tyrphophilous, viz. Ischiolepta nitida (Duda, 1920), Phthitia (Kimosina) longisetosa (Dahl, 1909), and Spelobia ibrida Roháček, 1983. The majority of recorded species do not have close affinity to peat bogs and are treated as tyrphoneutral, and Rachispoda hostica (Villeneuve, 1917) is probably tyrphoxenous due to occasional occurrence in a peat bog. Species composition of Sphaeroceridae on Caucasian peat bogs is discussed in comparison to those known from peat bogs in other parts of Europe. Taxonomic notes are given on Minilimosina (Svarciella) species of the M. vitripennis group. Six species (including P. turfosa sp. nov.) are new additions to the fauna of Russia.
["biology"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Five new troglobitic species of Tyrannochthonius (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae) from the Yunnan, Guizhou and Sichuan Provinces, China
Five new species of the genus Tyrannochthonius Chamberlin, 1929 are described from caves in the provinces of Yunnan (T. huilongshanensis sp. nov., T. xinzhaiensis sp. nov., and T. yamuhensis sp. nov.), Guizhou (T. dongjiensis sp. nov.), and Sichuan (T. huaerensis sp. nov.). An identification key is provided for all known representatives of the genus Tyrannochthonius from China.
["Cave-inhabiting"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿A revision of the North American genus Proctorus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Ellescini) with descriptions of two new species
The rarely collected North American endemic genus Proctorus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Ellescini) has hitherto contained two described species, P. armatus LeConte, 1876 and P. decipiens (LeConte, 1876). Here, Proctorus is revised and two new species, namely P. emarginatus sp. nov. and P. truncatus sp. nov., are described. Lectotypes for P. armatus and P. decipiens are designated from known syntypes. All four species in the genus are associated with Salicaceae, but, in addition to differences in external and genital morphology, there is also evidence of differing host plant usage between the species. A photographic key to the four species is provided to facilitate identification.
["Museology"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Review of Chinese species of the genus Thoracostrongylus Bernhauer, 1915 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae)
Species of the genus Thoracostrongylus Bernhauer, 1915 occurring in China are reviewed. Four new species and one new subspecies are described: T. baishanzuensis sp. nov. (Zhejiang), T. bicolor sp. nov. (Guangdong, Guangxi, Hunan, Yunnan), T. brachypterus sp. nov. (Sichuan), T. chrysites sp. nov. (Fujian), and T. formosanus flavipes ssp. nov. (Zhejiang, Fujian, Hubei, Hunan, Sichuan, Guangxi, Guangdong, Anhui, Jiangxi). A new synonymy is proposed: T. baoxingensis Yang, Zhou & Schillhammer, 2011 syn. nov. is in fact T. acerosus Yang, Zhou & Schillhammer, 2011. New provincial records for T. acerosus Yang, Zhou & Schillhammer, 2011 are reported. A key to Chinese species of the genus is provided.

﻿Two new species of Centroptilum Eaton, 1869 from North Africa (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Based on recently collected larvae from Algeria and Morocco, the species delimitation within the genus Centroptilum Eaton, 1869 in that region is validated. Two new species are described and illustrated, one from north-eastern Algeria, and one from North Morocco, using an integrated approach with morphological and molecular evidence. A table summarising the morphological differences between the new species and Centroptilum luteolum (Müller, 1776) from Central Europe is provided. Further, molecular evidence for additional undescribed species of Centroptilum in other regions of the West Palearctic is provided and discussed.
["Algeria"]

﻿A new digamasellid mite of the subgenus Longoseiulus Lindquist (Acari, Mesostigmata) from Slovakia
A new digamasellid mite, Longoseius (Longoseiulus) disparisetus sp. nov., was described from females found in the wood detritus of tree cavity of freshly felled elm (Fraxinus sp.) in a park in southwestern Slovakia. The new species differs from known congeners by the number of setae on some leg segments (genu II with eight setae, tibiae II and III with seven and six setae, respectively) and by the unusual presence of three pairs of conspicuously shortened setae (J3, J4, and Z3) on the posterior dorsal shield. In other known Longoseiulus species, the genu II has 11 setae, the tibiae II and III have 10 and seven setae, respectively, and almost all dorsal setae are of similar length (except for the elongated Z4 and S4), none of which is formed as a microseta. A dichotomous key for females is provided to identify species classified worldwide in Longoseiulus.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

﻿Three new species of Diploderma Hallowell, 1861 (Squamata, Agamidae) from the Hengduan Mountain Region, south-western China
Three new species of Diploderma are described from the Hengduan Mountain Region in south-western China, based on morphological and genetic data. The first new species from Yulong County, Yunnan Province is morphologically most similar and phylogenetically closely related to D. brevicauda, but it can be diagnosed from the latter by having a relatively longer tail; the second new species from Xiangcheng County, Sichuan Province is phylogenetically closely related to D. bowoense, but it can be diagnosed from the latter by the absence of a distinct gular spot; and the third new species from Yongsheng County, Yunnan Province is phylogenetically closely related to D. yulongense, but it can be diagnosed from the latter by having different colourations of the ventral and ventrolateral surfaces of the body. Taxonomy and diversity survey are the basis of species conservation, our discoveries contributing to better conservation of the species of this genus.
["Molecular"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Cincticostella ebura sp. nov., a new species of mayfly (Ephemeroptera, Ephemerellidae) from Thailand
A new species of ephemerellid mayfly, Cincticostella ebura sp. nov., is described based on larvae collected in a stream from Nan Province, Thailand. This new species is classified in the nigra complex of the genus Cincticostella based on morphological and COI phylogeny evidence. The new species is closely related to C. nigra (Uéno, 1928) and C. funki Martynov, Selvakumar, Palatov & Vasanth, 2021 based on body colour pattern. Investigation of the chorionic structure of the new species showed similar details to those of other species within this species complex. The phylogeny also placed this species into a monophyletic group with C. nigra (Uéno, 1928), C. elongatula (McLachlan, 1875) and C. fusca Kang & Yang, 1995.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

﻿Systematic notes on three troglobitic Anapistula (Araneae, Symphytognathidae) spiders from China, with the descriptions of two new species
Three cave-dwelling spider species belonging to the family Symphytognathidae Hickman, 1931, i.e., Anapistula sanjiao sp. nov. (♂♀), A. walayaku sp. nov. (♂♀), and A. panensis Lin, Tao & Li, 2013 (♂♀), are reported from southwest China. DNA sequences and detailed illustrations of the habitus, male palps and epigynes are provided, and their distributions are mapped. Their phylogenetic position within symphytognathids and relationships were tested and assessed using previously published phylogenetic analyses on symphytognathoids. The results showed that they form a clade with A. choojaiae Rivera-Quiroz, Petcharad & Miller, 2021 from Thailand.
["Cave spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿Establishment of two new Anaplecta species (Blattodea, Blattoidea, Anaplectidae) based on morphological and COI data with an additional description of Anaplecta furcata Deng & Che, 2020
Based on morphological characteristics, including male and female genitalia, combined with DNA barcodes, two new species, Anaplecta circinalis Deng & Che, sp. nov. and Anaplecta bihamata Deng & Che, sp. nov., are described in detail. Additional information on the female genitalia of Anaplecta furcata Deng & Che, 2020 is also provided. Photographs of external morphology and caudal anatomy of these species, as well as a key to the Chinese Anaplecta species, are provided.
["Cockroaches"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

﻿A review of the Augochloropsis (Hymenoptera, Halictidae) and keys to the shiny green Halictinae of the midwestern United States
Augochloropsis and other shiny green Halictinae have had various taxonomic issues and are often misidentified. One prevailing taxonomic issue is that Augochloropsis metallica (Fabricius) has two subspecies, that have long been recognized as morphologically distinct (Augochloropsis metallica metallica and Augochloropsis metallica fulgida (Smith), but the subspecies are inconsistently applied in the literature. Here, we review the Augochloropsis of the Midwest and further address the Augochloropsis species in the broader United States to resolve the outstanding taxonomic issues with the midwestern species. We provide identification keys and diagnoses for the genera and species of the shiny green Halictinae of the midwestern United States, which includes the genera Agapostemon, Augochlora, Augochlorella, and Augochloropsis. This work results in taxonomic changes to Augochloropsis. Augochloropsis sumptuosa (Smith) is split into two species, with the name Augochloropsis sumptuosa retained for the eastern form, and Augochloropsis humeralis (Patton), stat. nov., reinstated for the western form. Augochloropsis metallica is split into five species, with two of those species occurring in the midwestern United States: Augochloropsis metallica and Augochloropsis viridula (Smith), stat. nov. Examination of the holotype of Augochloropsis fulgida (Smith) revealed that it does not agree with the prevailing concept of Augochloropsis metallica fulgida; it is reinstated as Augochloropsis fulgida, stat. nov., but is currently known only from the holotype female from Florida. Augochloropsis cuprea (Smith), long considered to be a synonym of Augochloropsis metallica, is also distinct, and we are reinstating Augochloropsis cuprea, stat. nov., though the range of this species is unclear. We further recognize Augochloropsis fulvofimbriata (Friese), stat. nov., from South and Central America, as distinct. These changes result in a total of three Augochloropsis species in the Midwest and seven named species in the United States. We are aware of additional species from the southern and southwestern United States that are undescribed, and we highlight additional taxonomic work that remains to be done.
["Agapostemon"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿A new species of Saropogon Loew, 1847 (Diptera, Asilidae) from Arizona, with a review of the Nearctic species north of Mexico
The Nearctic species of Saropogon Loew, 1847 north of Mexico are reviewed, with 19 species recognized and one described as new: Saropogon pyrodes sp. nov. from Arizona. This previously recognized new species has awaited description since its first collection in 1964. Only after a community scientist posted photographs taken in nature to an online database did its description become a priority. All species of Saropogon occurring in the Nearctic Region north of the Mexican border have been reexamined. Photographs and diagnoses of all species are provided with a distribution map of the included specimens studied. An updated key to the Nearctic species north of Mexico is provided. Finally, the need for a review of the diverse Mexican fauna is expressed.
["Assassin flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Kelawakaju gen. nov., a new Asian lineage of marpissine jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae, Marpissina)
The genus Kelawakaju Maddison & Ruiz, gen. nov., is described for a lineage of bark-dwelling Asian marpissine jumping spiders that represent a dispersal to Eurasia separate from that of the Marpissa-Mendoza lineage, according to the phylogeny recovered from analysis of four gene regions. All species of Kelawakaju are new to science except Kelawakaju frenata (Simon, 1901), comb. nov., which is transferred from Ocrisiona Simon, 1901. Kelawakaju frenata is known from Hong Kong, Guangdong, Guangxi, and likely Taiwan. The five new species are Kelawakaju mulu Maddison & Ruiz, sp. nov. (type species of Kelawakaju, from Sarawak, Malaysia, ♂♀), K. intexta Maddison & Ruiz, sp. nov. (from Sarawak, ♂), K. leucomelas Maddison & Ng, sp. nov. (Singapore and Johor Bahru, ♂♀), K. sahyadri Vishnudas, Maddison, & Sudhikumar, sp. nov. (India, ♂♀), and K. singapura Maddison & Ng, sp. nov. (Singapore, ♂♀).
["Classification"]

Mitogenome recovered from a 19 th Century holotype by shotgun sequencing supplies a generic name for an orphaned clade of African weakly electric fishes (Osteoglossomorpha, Mormyridae)
Heteromormyrus Steindachner, 1866, a genus of Mormyridae (Teleostei: Osteoglossomorpha), has been monotypic since the description of Heteromormyrus pauciradiatus (Steindacher, 1866) from a single specimen. No type locality other than “Angola” was given and almost no specimens have been subsequently identified to this species. In order to investigate the relationship of this taxon to fresh specimens collected in Angola and elsewhere, whole genome paired-end sequencing of DNA extracted from the holotype specimen of Heteromormyrus pauciradiatus was performed and a nearly complete mitogenome assembled from the sequences obtained. Comparison of cytochrome oxidase I and cytochrome b sequences from this mitogenome to sequences from recently collected material reveal that Heteromormyrus pauciradiatus is closely related to specimens identified as Hippopotamyrus ansorgii (Boulenger, 1905), Hippopotamyrus szaboi Kramer, van der Bank & Wink, 2004, Hippopotamyrus longilateralis Kramer & Swartz, 2010, as well as to several undescribed forms from subequatorial Africa collectively referred to in the literature as the “Hippopotamyrus ansorgii species complex” and colloquially known as “slender stonebashers.” Previous molecular phylogenetic work has shown that these species are not close relatives of Hippopotamyrus castor Pappenheim, 1906, the type species of genus Hippopotamyrus Pappenheim, 1906 from Cameroon, and are thus misclassified. Hippopotamyrus ansorgii species complex taxa and another species shown to have been misclassified, Paramormyrops tavernei (Poll, 1972), are placed in genus Heteromormyrus and one genetic lineage from the Kwanza and Lucala rivers of Angola are identified as conspecific Heteromormyrus pauciradiatus. Three additional new combinations and a synonymy in Mormyridae are introduced. The morphological characteristics and geographical distribution of the genus Heteromormyrus are reviewed. The electric organ discharges (EODs) of Heteromormyrus species are to be treated in a separate study.
["Angolan freshwater fishes"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Integrative taxonomy delimits and diagnoses cryptic arboreal species of the Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus group (Squamata, Gekkonidae) with descriptions of four new species from Thailand
Species delimitation and species diagnosis must remain separate operations to avoid constructing taxonomies comprised of non-monophyletic species based on morphological similarity as opposed to phylogenetic propinquity. This is particularly true for highly specialized species such as the range-restricted upland taxa in the Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus group of Indochina where strong selection pressure for an arboreal lifestyle has contributed to morphologically similar but distantly related species. This in turn, has resulted in a history of erroneous taxonomies that have actually obscured rather than revealed the diversity within this group. A Bayesian phylogeny of the C. brevipalmatus group recovered at least 15 putative species-level lineages, at least seven of which are undescribed, and of which four are described herein. A total evidence morphological data set comprised of 16 normalized morphometric, 15 meristic, and seven categorical characters scored across 51 individuals was subjected to a multiple factor analysis (MFA) and an analysis of variance (ANOVA) to diagnose the putative species. These new species descriptions contribute to focusing attention to the unrealized diversity in upland tropical ecosystems, which due to climate change, are some of the most impearled ecosystems on the planet. Thus, it is paramount that taxonomies do not conflate species identities and underrepresent true diversity.
["geckos"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿Genome-wide survey reveals the phylogenomic relationships of Chirolophis japonicus Herzenstein, 1890 (Stichaeidae, Perciformes)
Fish are the largest vertebrate group, consisting of more than 30 000 species with important ecological and economical value, while less than 3% of fish genomes have been published. Herein, a fish, Chirolophis japonicus, was sequenced using the next-generation sequencing. Approximately 595.7 megabase pair of the C. japonicus genome was assembled (49 901 contigs with 42.61% GC contents), leading to a prediction of 46 729 protein-coding gene models. A total of 554 136 simple sequence repeats was identified in the whole genome of C. japonicus, and dinucleotide microsatellite motifs were the most abundant, accounting for 59.49%. Phylogenomic analysis of 16 genomes based on the 694 single-copy genes suggests that C. japonicus is closely related with Anarrhichthys ocellatus, Cebidichthys violaceus, and Pholis gunnellus. The results provide more thorough genetic information of C. japonicus and a theoretical basis and reference for further genome-wide analysis.
["Chirolophinae"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Aquaculture disease management and microbiota"]

﻿ Gnathia pipinde sp. nov. (Crustacea, Isopoda, Gnathiidae), a temporary parasite of the pufferfish, Amblyrhynchotes honckenii, from temperate southern Africa
A new species, Gnathia pipinde sp. nov., is described from specimens taken from pufferfish, Amblyrhynchotes honckenii, at Chintsa and De Hoop Nature Reserve on the southern Indian Ocean coast of South Africa. Gnathia pipinde sp. nov. is characterised by the straight frontal margin, presence of conical superior frontolateral process, a strong and bifid mediofrontal processes, pronounced and pointed supraocular lobes, mandible strongly curved with a dentate blade, and the claviform penes produced more than a third the length of the pereon. A summary and key to the males of all known species of the Gnathiidae from the Temperate Southern African marine realm is provided.
["Chintsa"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Two new millipede species of the genus Coxobolellus Pimvichai, Enghoff, Panha & Backeljau, 2020 (Diplopoda, Spirobolida, Pseudospirobolellidae)
Two new millipede species of the genus Coxobolellus Pimvichai, Enghoff, Panha & Backeljau, 2020 from Thailand are described: Coxobolellus saratani sp. nov. from Loei Province and Coxobolellus serratoligulatus sp. nov. from Uttaradit Province. The descriptions are based on gonopod morphology and two mitochondrial gene fragments (COI and 16S rRNA). The phylogenetic mtDNA analysis assigned the two new species unequivocally to the consistently well-supported Coxobolellus clade, in which they form a fifth subclade that was well supported by maximum likelihood analysis of 16S rRNA, though neither by Bayesian inference nor by COI. The two new Coxobolellus species share four conspicuous gonopodal synapomorphies of the genus: (1) the protruding process on the coxae of the 3rd (and sometimes 4th) pair of male legs, (2) a large, triangular coxae on the 4th–5th pair of legs, (3) a short process of the preanal ring protruding as far as, or slightly beyond, the anal valves, and (4) the posterior gonopod telopodite divided into two parts, with a conspicuous pore opening at the mesal margin at the end of the coxal part of the posterior gonopod. Thus, the two new species provide further evidence of the well-defined monophyly of the genus Coxobolellus. Finally, the paper provides an updated morphological identification key to all currently described Coxobolellus species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Revision of Vanuatubasis Ober & Staniczek, 2009 (Odonata, Coenagrionidae), with description of seven new species
Vanuatubasis Ober & Staniczek, 2009 is an endemic genus of damselfly found on the island archipelago of Vanuatu. Previously only three species were assigned to the genus. Here, all known species of Vanuatubasis are formally described and treated, including the association of females for known species. The following new congeners are also described: V. discontinua sp. nov., V. evelynae sp. nov., V. insularivorum sp. nov., V. kapularum sp. nov., V. nunggoli sp. nov., V. rhomboides sp. nov., and V. xanthochroa sp. nov. from material collected across six different islands. An illustrated key to both males and females of all species within Vanuatubasis is provided as well as distributions for all known species.
["Damselflies"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿A new species of Nitokra Boeck, 1865 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Ameiridae) from the Caribbean coast of Colombia
Biological samples obtained from a coastal system of northern Colombia yielded male and female specimens of an undescribed harpacticoid copepod of the diverse ameirid genus Nitokra Boeck, 1865. The new species is a member of the genus group III. We describe the new species based on adult male and female individuals. Nitokra puebloviejensis sp. nov., appears to be most closely related to N. vietnamensis Tran & Chang, 2012, but they can be separated by the following characters: 1) number of setal elements on second segment of mandibular palp, 2) P1ENP/EXP ratio, 3) relative lengths of P2, P3ENP/EXP, 4) number of elements on male P5EXP and ENP, and 5) segmentation of male antennule. In addition, N. puebloviejensis sp. nov. can be confused with two other congeners: N. taylori Gómez, Carrasco & Morales-Serna, 2012 from South Africa and Colombia and N. kastjanensis Kornev & Chertoprud, 2008 from the White Sea, but the new species can be distinguished from them by: 1) number of setae on the maxillule coxa, 2) P1ENP/EXP ratio, 3) P2,P3ENP/EXP ratio, 4) female and male P5 setophore, 5) setation pattern of female P5EXP and ENP, 6) structure of female P6, 7) ornamentation of female anal operculum, 8) number of setae on male P5EXP, and 9) the male antennule segmentation. Most importantly, the presence of a group of five short setae on the medial surface of the maxilliped syncoxa allows the new species to be readily distinguished from its congeners. Only two subspecies and one species of this genus have been hitherto recorded from Colombia. A key to the 23 known American species of Nitokra is provided.
["Benthic copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

﻿A new species of the genus Podocerus from the Seto Inland Sea, Japan (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Podoceridae)
A new podocerid amphipod, Podocerus setouchiensis sp. nov., is described from the Etajima Island, the Seto Inland Sea, Japan. This new species differs from its congeners by the dorsal carination of pereonites and pleonites, and form of the antenna 1, gnathopods 1 and 2, uropods 1 and 2, and telson. Nucleotide sequence data of the mitochondrial cytochrome c subunit I (COI) from a paratype of Podocerus setouchiensis sp. nov. is provided for future molecular systematic studies.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

﻿Genetic and morphometric analyses of historical type specimens clarify the taxonomy of the Ethiopian Leptopelis gramineus species complex (Anura, Arthroleptidae)
Frogs of the genus Leptopelis have diversified in the Ethiopian Highlands to occupy forests and montane grasslands both east and west of the Great Rift Valley. Genetic studies revealed that the endemic species Leptopelis gramineus (Boulenger, 1898) comprises multiple unnamed taxa. A careful examination of historical type specimens is, however, needed to fully resolve the taxonomy of the group. Here we use mitochondrial DNA and morphological analyses on a large sample of recently-collected Ethiopian Leptopelis, as well as century-old type specimens to demonstrate that the recently resurrected L. montanus Tiutenko & Zinenko, 2021 (previously Pseudocassina ocellata Ahl, 1924) is a junior synonym of L. rugosus (Ahl, 1924) and corresponds to the taxon found west of the Great Rift Valley, not east as previously thought. Our results show that populations inhabiting the mountains and plateaus east of the Rift constitute a distinct and undescribed species. We provide a re-description of L. rugosus and describe two new species inhabiting the Highlands east of the Great Rift Valley. We provide an identification key, as well as a description of the calls of the members of the Leptopelis gramineus species complex.
["African treefrogs"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿New faunistic records of the families Bolitophilidae and Keroplatidae (Diptera, Sciaroidea) from Morocco
The family Bolitophilidae is recorded for the first time from Morocco with one species Bolitophila (Bolitophila) saundersii (Curtis, 1836). Ten new species are added to the Moroccan fauna of Keroplatidae, known until now by only two species, raising the number of species currently known in Morocco to 12.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

﻿A fossil species found living off southern California, with notes on the genus Cymatioa (Mollusca, Bivalvia, Galeommatoidea)
A small bivalve mollusk previously only known from the Pleistocene of Los Angeles County has recently been found living intertidally near Santa Barbara, California. The bivalve has been determined to be Cymatioa cooki (Willett, 1937), a member of the Galeommatoidea J.E. Gray, 1840. We document the habitat for the newly discovered C. cooki, and compare it to C. electilis (Berry, 1963), the other extant member of this genus recorded from the region. Cymatioa cooki is rare, and while many galeommatoid species have been shown to be commensal with other invertebrates, we have been unable to determine any specific commensal relationships for it.
["Commensal"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

﻿Palaearctic seed beetle Bruchus affinis (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Bruchinae) new to North America, arrival, distribution, and autecology
First North American records are presented for Bruchus affinis Frölich, 1799 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Bruchinae), as confirmed by morphology from multiple sites in Canada: British Columbia, Ontario, and Québec. Diagnostic information is presented for B. affinis in North America. This insect is expected to reduce plant reproductive output in infested Lathyrus latifolius L., Lathyrus sylvestris L., and other potential Lathyrus (Fabaceae) hosts. Impacts on broad bean (Vicia faba L.) production are expected to be small. Potential reproductive impact on native North American Lathyrus species remains unknown. The United States of America and Canada are now known to be home to 69–79 species of adventive Chrysomelidae including 16–18 Bruchinae. We have found two dead, teneral B. affinis individuals inside Lathyrus seeds imported from Europe, and we hypothesise that this species was introduced to Canada from Europe via seeds for planting sometime before 2007. At our study sites, Lathyrus flowering began in mid June followed by oviposition in late June with first adults emerging in late August, requiring about 60 days from egg to adult stage. Dinarmus basalis (Rodani, 1877) (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae) was newly recorded as parasitoid of Bruchus affinis in Canada, and caused about 10% mortality in B. affinis at our sites.
["Invasive alien species"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

﻿Redescription of a rarely encountered species Travisa chinensis Grube, 1869 (Annelida, Travisiidae), including a description of a new species of Travisa from Amoy, China
The original description of Travisia chinensis Grube, 1869 was incomplete, leading to confusion with other species. To clarify the status of this species, we provide a redescription of, and remarks on, T. chinensis based on an examination of the type specimen. We also describe Travisia amoyanus sp. nov., collected from Xiamen (Amoy), China, and originally identified as T. chinensis by Monro (1934). The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: the total number of segments (34 or 35) and chaetigers (33 or 34), parapodial lappets first from chaetiger 15, and a pygidium with a large ventral triangular cirrus and about six encircling lateral cirri. Genetic distances and phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial (16S rRNA) and nuclear (18S rRNA) genes support the identity of the new species.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

﻿A new species of Monstrilla (Copepoda, Monstrilloida) from the western Caribbean with comments on M. wandelii Stephensen, 1913 and M. conjunctiva Giesbrecht, 1893
The taxonomic study of monstrilloid copepods is hampered by incomplete early descriptions, uncertain synonymies, and the difficulty of reliably matching males and females of species. A re-evaluation of male monstrilloid specimens collected from two reef areas of the Mexican Caribbean allowed me to clarify the status of Monstrilla mariaeugeniae Suárez-Morales & Islas-Landeros, 1993 and M. wandelii Stephensen, 1913 based on a comparison of males attributed to each of these species. Males from the Puerto Morelos reef system, northern Mexican Caribbean coast, were first proposed as a tropical subspecies of the subarctic M. wandelii; later on, morphologically close males collected from the Mahahual reef area, southern Mexican Caribbean coast, were designated as the males of M. mariaeugeniae. Their status is here corrected with the description of M. mahahualensis sp. nov. based on the Mahahual males; the new species shares the same type of genitalia with the antarctic M. conjunctiva Giesbrecht, 1892 and the subarctic M. wandelii; Park (1967) linked a single male from Vancouver to M. wandelii. It was realised that Park’s (1967) males from the Vancouver area and the two Mexican Caribbean groups of males represent different, undescribed species. I here reassign the males earlier attributed to M. mariaeugeniae as a new species of Monstrilla which is herein described. The new species differs from the males of M. conjunctiva and M. wandelii by details of the genitalia, length of the setae of the fifth legs, armature and integumental structures of the antennules, and size of the outer exopodal spines of legs 1–4. This is the third known species of Monstrilla with a M. conjunctiva-like male genitalia and the first one known from tropical areas. The male of both M. mariaeugeniae and M. wandelii remain unknown.
["Mexican Caribbean"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Exceptional larval morphology of nine species of the Anastrepha mucronota species group (Diptera, Tephritidae)
Anastrepha is the most diverse and economically important genus of Tephritidae in the American tropics and subtropics. The striking morphology of the third instars of Anastrepha caballeroi Norrbom, Anastrepha crebra Stone, Anastrepha haplacantha Norrbom & Korytkowski, Anastrepha korytkowskii Norrbom, Anastrepha nolazcoae Norrbom & Korytkowski, and three newly discovered and as yet formally unnamed species (Anastrepha sp. Peru-82, Anastrepha sp. nr. protuberans, and Anastrepha sp. Sur-16), and the more typical morphology of Anastrepha aphelocentema Stone, are described using light and scanning electron microscopy. To contribute to a better understanding of the interspecific and intraspecific variation among species in the mucronota species group and facilitate phylogenetic studies, we integrate molecular and morphological techniques to confirm the identity and describe third instars. Larva-adult associations and the identification of described larvae were confirmed using DNA barcodes. We provide diagnostic characters to distinguish larvae among these nine species of the mucronota group and separate them from those of the 29 other Anastrepha species previously described. We introduce the vertical comb-like processes on the oral margin as a novel character, and the unusual character states, including position and shape of the preoral lobe, and dentate or fringed posterior margins of the oral ridges and accessory plates. Our comparative morphology concurs with most previously inferred phylogenetic relationships within the mucronota group.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿Resurrection and redescription of Clepsine pallida Verrill, 1872 (Hirudinida, Glossiphoniidae) with a phylogeny of the genus Alboglossiphonia
Alboglossiphonia pallida (Verrill, 1872) comb. nov. is resurrected and redescribed based on morphological and molecular data from specimens of the type locality (New Haven County, Connecticut, USA) that demonstrate it is distinct from North American Alboglossiphonia heteroclita, European Alboglossiphonia heteroclita, and Alboglossiphonia papillosa. Alboglossiphonia pallida is characterized by having dark chromatophores on the dorsal surface arranged lateral to patrilaterally and medially as a thin line or interrupted thin line along with three pairs of eye spots (with the first pair closest together), six pairs of crop ceca, and a united gonopore. Additional sampling of specimens of the genus Alboglossiphonia is needed to understand its phylogeny especially as many species have not been collected since their description.
["Alboglossiphonia heteroclita"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿A new species of feather-tailed leaf-toed gecko, Kolekanos Heinicke, Daza, Greenbaum, Jackman, Bauer, 2014 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from the poorly explored savannah of western Angola
We here describe a new species of feather-tailed leaf-toed gecko, Kolekanos, from southern Benguela Province, Angola, based on morphological and osteological evidence, supported by phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial data. The new species adds to the rapidly growing and newly-recognised endemic biodiversity of Angola, doubling the number of Kolekanos species, breaking the pattern observed within other closely-related African members of a clade of circum-Indian Ocean leaf-toed geckos – Ramigekko, Cryptactites and Afrogecko – all of which are presently monotypic. The new species is easily distinguished from K. plumicaudus, based on spine-like (as opposed to feather-like) scales on the margins of the original tail. Phylogenetic analyses also recovered the new taxon as monophyletic, with a well-supported sister relationship to K. plumicaudus, from which it differs by a substantial 24.1% NADH-dehydrogenase subunit 2 mitochondrial gene uncorrected p-distance.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

﻿Complete distribution of the genus Laevilitorina (Littorinimorpha, Littorinidae) in the Southern Hemisphere: remarks and natural history
Littorinid snails are present in most coastal areas globally, playing a significant role in the ecology of intertidal communities. Laevilitorina is a marine gastropod genus distributed exclusively in the Southern Hemisphere, with 21 species reported from South America, the sub-Antarctic islands, Antarctica, New Zealand, Australia and Tasmania. Here, an updated database of 21 species generated from a combination of sources is presented: 1) new field sampling data; 2) published records; 3) the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and The Atlas of Living Australia (ALA), to provide a comprehensive description of the known geographic distribution of the genus and detailed occurrences for each of the 21 species. The database includes 813 records (occurrences), 53 from field sampling, 174 from the literature, 128 from GBIF, and 458 from ALA. West Antarctica had the highest species richness (8 species), followed by sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand (4 species) and the south-east shelf of Australia (4 species). The provinces of Magellan, New Zealand South Island, and sub-Antarctic Islands of the Indian Ocean include two species each. This study specifically highlights reports of L. pygmaea and L. venusta, species that have been almost unrecorded since their description. Recent advances in molecular studies of L. caliginosa showed that this species does not correspond to a widely distributed taxon, but to multiple divergent lineages distributed throughout the Southern Ocean. Ongoing molecular and taxonomic studies are necessary for a better understanding of the diversity and biogeography of this genus.
["Antarctic"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

﻿The aquatic Adephaga of the Makay, central-western Madagascar, with description of two new diving beetle species (Coleoptera, Gyrinidae, Haliplidae, Noteridae, Dytiscidae)
Water beetles of the families Gyrinidae, Haliplidae, Noteridae, and Dytiscidae (aquatic Adephaga) of the Makay in central-western Madagascar were surveyed in three campaigns during the years 2016–2018. A total of 74 species was collected from 62 sampling sites, all except one being newly recorded from the Makay. Copelatus malavergnorum sp. nov. (irinus group) and C. zanabato sp. nov. (erichsonii group) (Dytiscidae, Copelatinae) are described and their habitus and male genitalia are illustrated. A systematic account is given, including description of habitat preferences for each species. Analyses of species composition and dominance, species diversity and endemism highlighted the strong singularity of the aquatic Adephaga fauna inhabiting the sandstone massif of inner Makay (notably with several local endemic dytiscids) with respect to its peripheral lowlands. These comparisons were also performed between groups of sites categorised according to vegetation context (forested, semi-forested, non-forested). Rather unexpectedly, inner Makay although well-preserved and little deforested has relatively low endemism level and low species diversity (H1 Hill number twice lower than in the geographically close and geologically similar massif of Isalo). Species diversity was higher in the deforested and man-impacted peripheral sites, which yielded a rich contingent of western Madagascar lowland species including a few undescribed or rarely observed dytiscids.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

﻿New species and new records of semiaquatic bugs (Arthropoda, Insecta, Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Gerromorpha) from French Guiana
Semiaquatic bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Gerromorpha) are predatory insects that occupy a wide range of freshwater and marine habitats, with some secondary transitions to terrestrial life. They currently represent more than 2100 species distributed through all continents, except for Antarctica, and are especially rich in the Neotropical and Oriental regions. Although the fauna from the former region is relatively well known, some areas remain almost unexplored. Such is the case of French Guiana, where only a few species have been previously recorded, several of which based on collections made in the 19th and early 20th centuries. As a result of material recently collected in the territory, the descriptions of Rhagovelia depressa Rodrigues, Khila & Moreira, sp. nov., R. tantilloides Rodrigues, Khila & Moreira, sp. nov. and Steinovelia vittata Rodrigues, Khila & Moreira, sp. nov. (Veliidae) are presented here. New records for 28 species are also provided, of which Cylindrostethus hungerfordi Drake & Harris, 1934, Neogerris magnus (Kuitert, 1942), Rheumatobates mangrovensis (China, 1943), R. trinitatis (China, 1943), Ovatametra obesa Kenaga, 1942, Telmatometra fusca Kenaga, 1941, T. parva Kenaga, 1941 (Gerridae), Mesovelia amoena Uhler, 1894 (Mesoveliidae), Rhagovelia brunae Magalhães & Moreira, 2016, R. elegans Uhler, 1894, R. ephydros (Drake & Van Doesburg, 1966), R. equatoria D. Polhemus, 1997, R. evidis Bacon, 1948, R. guianana D. Polhemus, 1997, R. tenuipes Champion, 1898, Oiovelia cunucunumana (Drake & Maldonado-Capriles, 1952), Stridulivelia alia (Drake, 1957), S. stridulata (Hungerford, 1929), and S. tersa (Drake & Harris, 1941) (Veliidae) are reported from French Guiana for the first time.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

﻿A new genus Anamalysia van Achterberg (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae), six new species, and two new combinations from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam
A new genus of the tribe Alysiini (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) is described with specimens from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, and six new species are described: Anamalysia idiastimorpha sp. nov. (type species), A. knekosoma sp. nov., A. mellipes sp. nov., A. transversator sp. nov., A. vandervechti sp. nov., and A. vanhengstumi sp. nov.. We transfer one species from Coelalysia to Anamalysia: A. urbana (Papp, 1967) comb. nov. from Singapore and one species from Alysiasta to Anamalysia: A. triangulum (Fischer, 2006) comb. nov. from Malaysia, Laos, Indonesia and Vietnam. A key to the genus of Anamalysia is included.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

﻿Rhagophthalmidae Olivier, 1907 (Coleoptera, Elateroidea): described genera and species, current problems, and prospects for the bioluminescent and paedomorphic beetle lineage
Rhagophthalmidae are a small beetle family known from the eastern Palaearctic and Oriental realms. Rhagophthalmidae are closely related to railroad worms (Phengodidae) and fireflies (Lampyridae) with which they share highly modified paedomorphic females and the ability to emit light. Currently, Rhagophthalmidae include 66 species classified in the following 12 genera: Bicladodrilus Pic, 1921 (two spp.), Bicladum Pic, 1921 (two spp.), Dioptoma Pascoe, 1860 (two spp.), Diplocladon Gorham, 1883 (two spp.), Dodecatoma Westwood, 1849 (eight spp.), Falsophrixothrix Pic, 1937 (six spp.), Haplocladon Gorham, 1883 (two spp.), Menghuoius Kawashima, 2000 (three spp.), Mimoochotyra Pic, 1937 (one sp.), Monodrilus Pic, 1921 (two spp. in two subgenera), Pseudothilmanus Pic, 1918 (two spp.), and Rhagophthalmus Motschulsky, 1854 (34 spp.). The replacement name Haplocladon gorhami Kundrata, nom. nov. is proposed for Diplocladon hasseltii Gorham, 1883b (described in subgenus Haplocladon) which is preoccupied by Diplocladon hasseltii Gorham, 1883a. The genus Reductodrilus Pic, 1943 is tentatively placed in Lampyridae: Ototretinae. Lectotypes are designated for Pseudothilmanus alatus Pic, 1918 and P. marginalis Pic, 1918. Interestingly, in the eastern part of their distribution, Rhagophthalmidae have remained within the boundaries of the Sunda Shelf and the Philippines demarcated by the Wallace Line, which separates the Oriental and Australasian realms. This study is intended to be a first step towards a comprehensive revision of the group on both genus and species levels. Additionally, critical problems and prospects for rhagophthalmid research are briefly discussed.
["Catalogue"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿A new species of scops-owl (Aves, Strigiformes, Strigidae, Otus) from Príncipe Island (Gulf of Guinea, Africa) and novel insights into the systematic affinities within Otus
A new species of scops-owl (Aves, Strigiformes, Strigidae, Otus) is described from Príncipe Island, São Tomé and Príncipe (Gulf of Guinea, Africa). This species was discovered for science in 2016, although suspicions of its occurrence gained traction from 1998, and testimonies from local people suggesting its existence could be traced back to 1928. Morphometrics, plumage colour and pattern, vocalisations, and molecular evidence all support the species status of the scops-owl from Príncipe, which is described here as Otus bikegila sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that this species descended from the first colonisation of the Gulf of Guinea islands, being sister to the clade including the mainland African Scops-Owl O. senegalensis, and the island endemics Sao Tome Scops-Owl O. hartlaubi and Pemba Scops-Owl O. pembaensis. The most diagnostic trait in the field is its unique call which, curiously, is most similar to a distantly related Otus species, the Sokoke Scops-Owl O. ireneae. The new species occurs at low elevations of the old-growth native forest of Príncipe, currently restricted to the south of the island but fully included within Príncipe Obô Natural Park. Otus bikegila sp. nov. takes the number of single-island endemic bird species of Príncipe to eight, further highlighting the unusually high level of bird endemism for an island of only 139 km2.
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿A detailed comparison of two species in the genus Potamanthus Pictet, 1843 from China (Ephemeroptera, Potamanthidae)
Photographs and details of structures of two Potamanthus species, P. huoshanensis Wu, 1987 and P. luteus (Linnaeus, 1767), are presented for the first time. Here, based upon Chinese specimens of those species, all external structures are illustrated digitally and compared. The results and photos clearly show that the adults of the two species are different in wing color and genitalia shape, and that their nymphs have different mandibular tusks and forelegs. Specifically, P. luteus has a more colorful body and wings, longer penes and nymphal mandibular tusks but shorter foretarsi than those of P. huoshanensis. This comparison not only confirms the differences between these two similar species, but also supports the updated generic delineations of Potamanthus and Potamanthodes.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Hidden diversity of rock geckos within the Cnemaspis siamensis species group (Gekkonidae, Squamata): genetic and morphological data from southern Thailand reveal two new insular species and verify the phylogenetic affinities of C. chanardi and C. kamolnorranathi
Two new insular rock geckos in the genus Cnemaspis are described from Ko Samui in Surat Thani Province and Ko Similan in Phang-nga Province, southern Thailand, based on a combination of morphological and mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) data. Both new species represent divergent lineages within the Cnemaspis siamensis species group. Cnemaspis samui sp. nov. is distinguished from other species in the group by having eight or nine supralabial and infralabial scales; 5–8 pore-bearing precloacal scales in males, pores rounded; 25–27 paravertebral tubercles, arranged randomly; 22–25 subdigital lamellae under 4th toe; enlarged median subcaudal scale row present; gular region, abdomen, limbs and subcaudal region yellowish only in males, and uncorrected pairwise divergences of 8.86–26.83% from all other species in the C. siamensis species group. Cnemaspis similan sp. nov. is distinguished from other species in the group by having eight or nine supralabial and seven or eight infralabial scales; one pore-bearing precloacal scale in males, pore rounded; 24 or 25 paravertebral tubercles, arranged randomly; 23 or 24 subdigital lamellae under 4th toe; no enlarged median subcaudal scale row; pale yellow reticulum on head, neck, flanks, belly and limbs in male only, and uncorrected pairwise divergences of 9.34–27.11% from all other species in the C. siamensis species group. Cnemaspis samui sp. nov. is found along granitic rocky stream outcrops of Hin Lad Waterfall, Ko Samui, Gulf of Thailand, while Cnemaspis similan sp. nov. occurs in granitic rocky outcrops near Ao Nguang Chang Bay, Ko Similan, Andaman Sea. The phylogenetic analyses confirmed that C. chanardi and C. kamolnorranathi are also nested within the C. siamensis species group, as previously hypothesized from morphology and color pattern characters.
["Cnemaspis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Three new species of the genus Tetragnatha Latreille, 1804 (Araneae, Tetragnathidae) from China
Three new species of Tetragnatha Latreille, 1804 are described from China: T. bifurcata Li & Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀) and T. tortilis Li & Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan Province, and T. bimaculata Li & Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Hubei and Hunan provinces. Detailed descriptions, photographs of somatic features and copulatory organs, and a distribution map of these three species are provided.
["Araneoidea"]

﻿Chimena gen. nov., a new spider genus (Araneae, Mysmenidae) from China, with descriptions of two new species and a new combination
A new mysmenid genus, Chimena gen. nov., is reported from China. Two new species: C. qiong sp. nov. (Hainan, ♂♀, the type species) and C. nantou sp. nov. (Taiwan, ♀) are illustrated and described in detail. A new combination is suggested: Chimena taiwanica (Ono, 2007) comb. nov. (Taiwan, ♂♀, transferred from Mysmena Simon, 1894). The molecular phylogeny and morphological characters were used to discuss the taxonomy and circumscription of the newly erected genus.
["Diagnosis"]

﻿Schievitermes globicornis, a new genus and species of Termitinae (Blattodea, Termitidae) from French Guiana
Asymmetrical snapping mandibles have evolved several times in termites. In the Neotropics, asymmetrical snapping mandibles are found in soldiers of four genera: Neocapritermes, Planicapritermes, Cornicapritermes and Dihoplotermes. Here, I describe Schievitermes globicornis, new genus and species, from French Guiana. This genus is characterized by an absence of a frontal prominence and slightly asymmetrical mandibles in the soldier caste. The morphology and anatomy of the worker reveal a wood-based diet, and suggest that Schievitermes, Planicapritermes and Neocapritermes constitute a monophyletic group, which is consistent with mtDNA data.
["Isoptera"]

﻿Triplophysa daryoae, a new nemacheilid loach species (Teleostei, Nemacheilidae) from the Syr Darya River basin, Central Asia
Triplophysa daryoae, new species, is described from the Sokh River, a former tributary of Syr Darya that today fails to reach the river, in the Sokh District, an exclave of Uzbekistan, surrounded by Kyrgyzstan. Triplophysa daryoae is distinguished from other species of Triplophysa in Central Asia by a truncate caudal fin with 13 or 14 branched rays, body without obvious mottling, dorsal-fin origin opposite to pelvic-fin insertion, and absence of the posterior chamber of the air bladder. Molecular data suggest that Triplophysa daryoae is closely related to T. ferganaensis from the Shakhimardan stream, a small tributary of Syr Darya in the Yordon village, another exclave of Uzbekistan in Kyrgyzstan. The two species were separated by a Kimura 2-parameter genetic distance of 2.8% in the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I barcode region; they are also distinguished morphologically. A key to the species of Triplophysa in the Syr Darya basin and adjacent regions is provided.
["Fergana Valley"]

﻿Description and phylogenetic analysis of two new Episinus (Araneae, Theridiidae) species from China
The spider genus Episinus Walckenaer, 1809 currently contains 66 species worldwide, mostly in warm temperate to tropical areas. This paper describes two new Chinese Episinus species: E. ornithorrhynchus sp. nov. (♂♀) and E. papilionaceous sp. nov. (♀). We add these two new and one known Episinus species to the phylogenetic data matrix of Liu et al. 2016 and reanalyze the data. The new phylogeny recovers the monophyly of Episinus and supports its division into two groups, a finding also supported by morphology.

﻿Megabranchiella gen. nov., a new mayfly genus (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Thailand with description of two new species
Megabranchiella gen. nov. (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) is established as a new baetid mayfly genus from northern Thailand. Two new species, Megabranchiella scutulata sp. nov. and Megabranchiella longusa sp. nov., are described. This genus is distinguished from other Baetidae by abdominal segment I, bearing a pair of enlarged, ventrally oriented single gills, covering abdominal sternites II–V; other gills have normal size and are dorsolaterally oriented. The two new species Megabranchiella longusa sp. nov. and Megabranchiella scutulata sp. nov. can be differentiated by the setation of femur dorsal margin and the shape of abdominal gill I. This mayfly genus was found in flowing water with cobble microhabitats in headwater streams of northern Thailand.
["Baetidae mayflies"]

﻿Complete mitochondrial genomes of Boiga kraepelini and Hebius craspedogaster (Reptilia, Squamata, Colubridae) and their phylogenetic implications
The complete sequence of the mitochondrial genome is a powerful tool for studying phylogenetic relationships and molecular evolution in various species. In this work, the mitogenomes of Boiga kraepelini and Hebius craspedogaster were sequenced and characterized for the first time. The lengths of the B. kraepelini and H. craspedogaster mitogenomes were 17,124 bp and 17,120 bp, respectively, and both included 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, two rRNAs and two control regions. The arrangements of these mitochondrial genes were the same in B. kraepelini and H. craspedogaster. In addition, both genome compositions showed A+T bias (59.03%, 60.93%) and had positive AT skews (0.179, 0.117) and negative GC skews (-0.397, -0.348). The phylogenetic results illustrated a close relationship between B. kraepelini and the genus Lycodon. Moreover, H. craspedogaster was clustered with other Hebius snakes and closely related to other Natricinae species. These results will provide references for further research on the phylogeny of Colubridae.
["Colubrinae"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

﻿New species and illustrated key of Macraspis (Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae, Rutelini) from the Amazon biome of Brazil
The phytophagous scarab genus Macraspis MacLeay (Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae, Rutelini) is reviewed from the Brazilian Amazon region. Three new species are described and illustrated from the states of Amazonas, Pará, and Rondônia: M. buehrnheimi sp. nov., M. opala sp. nov., and M. phallocardia sp. nov. Two species, Macraspis fernandezi Neita-Moreno and M. oblonga Burmeister, are recorded for the first time in Brazil (new country records). Macraspis maculata crosarai Soula is a new synonym of Macraspis maculata Burmeister; hence this species no longer includes subspecies. Furthermore, Macraspis cincta parensis Soula, 2005 is deemed unavailable under the provisions of ICZN Articles 16.4.1 and 16.4.2. An illustrated key to 15 species and subspecies of Macraspis from the Brazilian Amazon enables identification of this speciose leaf chafer genus.
["Chafers"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

﻿A review of the spider genus Chthonopes (Araneae, Theridiosomatidae), with descriptions of two new species from China
The genus Chthonopes Wunderlich, 2011 is reviewed in this paper. The type species Chthonopes jaegeri Wunderlich, 2011 was illustrated based on new material from the type locality and the new distribution records (Bolikhamsay and Ban Kouanphavang Khammouane, Laos). Two new species are described from Yunnan, China: C. bifidum Yu & Lin, sp. nov. (♂♀) and C. jimudeng Yu & Lin, sp. nov. (♀). A key is provided for the genus, as well as species diagnoses, and a distribution map for all five species of Chthonopes.
["Araneoidea"]

﻿Two new species of Diphya Nicolet, 1849 (Araneae, Tetragnathidae) from Southwest China
Two new species of tetragnathid spiders from Guizhou and Sichuang provinces of China are described: Diphya guiyang J. Zhang & H. Yu, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Diphya weimiani J. Zhang & H. Yu, sp. nov. (♀). Detailed descriptions, diagnoses, and photographs are provided for these two species, as well as a key and a distribution map for Chinese Diphya species. DNA barcodes (a partial fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene, COI) of both new species were obtained for species delimitation, matching of different sexes, and future use in molecular studies.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Nine new species of Trigonopterus Fauvel (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) from Sundaland
The DNA of Trigonopterus specimens from the Sundaland region stored between ten and 32 years in museums could be used for next-generation sequencing. The availability of their cox1 sequence allowed the description of the following nine new species: Trigonopterus grimmi sp. nov., T. johorensis sp. nov., T. lambirensis sp. nov., T. linauensis sp. nov., T. microreticulatus Riedel, Trnka & Wahab sp. nov., T. mulensis sp. nov., T. sarawakensis sp. nov., T. siamensis sp. nov., and T. singaporensis sp. nov. The alternative original spelling of the name T. tounensis Narakusumo & Riedel is chosen to prevail over T. tounaensis Narakusumo & Riedel. The new species represent the first country records of Trigonopterus for Brunei, Singapore, and Thailand. Thus, the genus´ known area of distribution in the Sundaland region is significantly extended. A key and a catalogue are provided to the Trigonopterus species from Borneo, W-Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.
["Ancient DNA"]

﻿Hidden in the jungle of Vietnam: a new species of Quasipaa (Amphibia, Anura, Dicroglossidae) from Ngoc Linh Mountain
A new species of Quasipaa is described from Ngoc Linh Mountain of the Kon Tum Massif in central Vietnam. The new species is morphologically distinguishable from its congeners on the basis of a combination of the following diagnostic characters: SVL 79.6–84.3 mm in males and 64.6–69.9 mm in females; head broader than long; vomerine teeth present; external vocal sacs absent; tympanum slightly visible; dorsum with lines of thick ridges and small round tubercles; flanks covered by oval and round tubercles; supratympanic fold present; dorsolateral fold absent; ventrolateral sides, ventral surface of arms, and all fingers with spines in males; the absence of spines on chest and belly in males; toes fully webbed to distal portion of terminal phalanx; in life, dorsum dark brown, chest and belly immaculate white. Phylogenetic analyses found that the genetic divergence of the new species and its congeners ranged from 4.2–5.1% (compared with Quasipaa boulengeri) to 7.6–8.1% (compared with Q. shini) in the 16S gene.
["Kon Tum Province"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Taxonomic study on Mysmenidae spiders (Mysmenidae, Araneae) from Xishuangbanna of Yunnan, China
Thirteen spider species belonging to the family Mysmenidae Petrunkevitch, 1928 are reported from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG), Menglun Township, Mengla County, Yunnan Province of China. One genus and five species are documented as new to science: Mengmena banna gen. nov. et. sp. nov. (♂♀), Mengmena yulin sp. nov. (♀), Mosu heguomu sp. nov. (♂♀), Mysmena luosuo sp. nov. (♂♀), and Mysmena dai sp. nov. (♀). One species is proposed as a new combination: Mosu zhengi (Lin & Li, 2008) comb. nov. (♂♀, ex Mysmena Simon, 1894). The females of Microdipoena menglunensis (Lin & Li, 2008), Mysmena arcilonga Lin & Li, 2008, Mysmena furca Lin & Li, 2008, and Mysmena rostella Lin & Li, 2008 are described for the first time. Three known species are re-examined and photographed: Gaoligonga taeniata Lin & Li, 2014, Mysmena biangulata (Lin & Li, 2008), and Mysmena cornigera (Lin & Li, 2008). Morphological diagnoses and illustrations are provided for these thirteen mysmenid species.
["Diagnoses"]

﻿First records of Trichina Meigen, Euthyneura Macquart and Oedalea Meigen (Diptera, Hybotidae) from North Africa, with descriptions of two new species
Trichina Meigen, 1830, Euthyneura Macquart, 1836 and Oedalea Meigen, 1820 are reported for the first time in North Africa from northern Morocco, with seven species including two ones new to science, based on material collected at nine sites located in the Moroccan sector of the Mediterranean Intercontinental Biosphere reserve (MIBR). These new records represent also the first evidence of the occurrence of Trichininae and Oedaleinae subfamilies throughout North Africa and bring the total of Moroccan hybotid fauna to 51 species. The new species are described and illustrated. A key to Moroccan Trichina species is provided.
["Hybotidae"]

﻿Evidence of late root formation of molars in Anderson’s red-backed vole, Eothenomys andersoni (Thomas, 1905) (Cricetidae, Rodentia), and arguments for its generic allocation
We evaluated the molars in Anderson’s red-backed vole (n = 114) from the Kii Peninsula of Honshu, Japan. Two of the specimens are considered extremely old aged based on their dimensions and on the loss of alveolar capsules of M2, and a third one is also old based on its strongly worn left M3 and M1. Of the former two individuals, one showed an incipient closure of re-entrant angles at its basal end, as estimated from the difference between the occlusal patterns of the occlusal and basal surfaces of the left M2. The latter individual also showed a complete closure of the basal end in the left M3. These patterns differ from incipient roots observed in other vole taxa but were similar to a previous example of incipient roots in Anderson’s red-backed vole. Therefore, we suggest that molar roots in this species form at an extremely late age or by strong wear. Root formation in molars is considered an important diagnostic character, as Eothenomys molars lack roots, while Craseomys molars develop roots at a late age. However, this dental character may be particularly difficult to assess in voles under natural conditions. Considering previous phylogenetic findings based on molecular analyses, Craseomys is the most appropriate genus for Anderson’s and other Asiatic red-backed voles.
["Craseomys"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

﻿A new species of Austrocypraea (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Cypraeidae) from the Pliocene of Flinders Island, Tasmania
A new morphologically distinct species of cowry (family Cypraeidae Rafinesque, 1815) is described from the Pliocene of Flinders Island, Tasmania. Austrocypraea jimgracei sp. nov. differs morphologically from other members of the genus and is particularly characterised by the development of a heavily callused labral margin, with a distinct marginal edge that bends up towards the dorsum centrally. This feature is unique within the genus. The new taxon is only the second known Austrocypraea from the Pliocene. A revised key to the known Austrocypraea fossil species is presented.
["Cameron Inlet Formation"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

﻿An updated checklist of Collembola in Taiwan, with DNA barcoding of Papirioides jacobsoni Folsom, 1924 (Symphypleona, Dicyrtomidae)
From urban green space to pristine forest, Collembola is one of the most numerous and species-rich members of the soil fauna around the world. However, due to lack of taxonomic expertise and research, its diversity is poorly understood, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Collembola biodiversity studies in Taiwan have not seen much progress since 1981, when Hsin Chi reviewed 26 species belonging to 20 genera and eight families. Additionally, reports of new records in Taiwan in the last 40 years are scattered amongst several publications and not easily accessible to most end-users. Thus, a concise summary of related research is urgently needed. In this study, we updated the checklist of Collembola in Taiwan, based on published papers as well as images recorded in 2020–2022. We concluded that 58 species of Collembola belonging to 31 genera and 12 families have been reported in Taiwan, including 13 newly-recorded species. This species richness marks a 123% increase from the 1981 review. The results have been made publicly available in the Catalog of Life in Taiwan database and the images recorded have been used to update species information in collembola.org. We also characterised morphological and genetic variations in the globular springtail species Papirioides jacobsoni Folsom, 1924 using DNA barcodes and highlighted potential research directions.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿Description of two species of the genus Astrodia Verrill, 1899 (Ophiuroidea, Euryalida, Asteronychidae), including a new species from seamounts in the West Pacific
Five specimens of Ophiuroidea from deep-sea seamounts in the West Pacific were collected and identified as two species, Astrodia duospina sp. nov. and Astrodia abyssicola. The new species, Astrodia duospina sp. nov., can be distinguished from its congeners by having indistinct or underdeveloped oral papillae, relatively short genital slits, crescent-shaped lateral arm plates, and plate-shaped external ossicles on the aboral surface of the disc. One specimen was identified as Astrodia abyssicola, which has been reported in the north-western Pacific and the north-eastern coast of Japan. The most recent tabular key of Astrodia was revised with two more key characteristics added, the shape and presence of oral papillae and the number of arm spines. The phylogenetic relationship of Astrodia and Asteronyx was analyzed based on 16S and COI sequences. The discovery of the two species further expanded the geographical distribution of the genus Astrodia.
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Revision of the genus Urvaschia Hopp (Hemiptera, Lygaeoidea, Oxycarenidae), with descriptions of two new species from China and Nepal
The species of Urvaschia Hopp, 1987 are reviewed. The following taxonomic change is proposed: Urvaschia obscuripennis (Kiritshenko, 1914), comb. nov. (transferred from Microplax Fieber, 1860). The genus Urvaschia Hopp is newly recorded from Afghanistan, China, Iran, and Tadzhikistan. Two new species of Urvaschia, Urvaschia convexa sp. nov. and U. recta sp. nov. are described from China and Nepal. A diagnosis of the genus, a key to all of the included species, habitus photographs, and male genitalia illustrations of selected species are presented.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

﻿First contribution to Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in Cambodia (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae), with description of two new species
Material collected in 2018 in Cambodia gives us first insights into the diversity of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge, 1987 in this country. No species has been reported so far. We identified two new species using a combination of morphology and genetic distance (COI, Kimura 2-parameter). They are described and illustrated based on their larvae. A key to all Labiobaetis species of continental Southeast Asia is provided. The interspecific K2P distance between the two new species is 20–21%, the intraspecific distance of one of them is 1%. The total number of Labiobaetis species worldwide is augmented to 156.

﻿A survey of the genus Himalaphantes Tanasevitch, 1992 (Araneae, Linyphiidae) with description of three new species from Yunnan, China
Three new species of Himalaphantes Tanasevitch, 1992 from Yunnan province, China, are described: H. arcuatus sp. nov. (♀), H. lingulatus sp. nov. (♂♀), and H. uncatus sp. nov. (♂♀). The diagnosis of the genus is clarified, and extended detailed descriptions, photographs of somatic features and copulatory organs, and a distribution map are provided.
["Gaoligong Mountains"]

﻿GPS tracking data of Eurasian oystercatchers (Haematopus ostralegus) from the Netherlands and Belgium
We describe six datasets that contain GPS and accelerometer data of 202 Eurasian oystercatchers (Haematopus ostralegus) spanning the period 2008–2021. Birds were equipped with GPS trackers in breeding and wintering areas in the Netherlands and Belgium. We used GPS trackers from the University of Amsterdam Bird Tracking System (UvA-BiTS) for several study purposes, including the study of space use during the breeding season, habitat use and foraging behaviour in the winter season, and impacts of human disturbance. To enable broader usage, all data have now been made open access. Combined, the datasets contain 6.0 million GPS positions, 164 million acceleration measurements and 7.0 million classified behaviour events (i.e., flying, walking, foraging, preening, and inactive). The datasets are deposited on the research repository Zenodo, but are also accessible on Movebank and as down-sampled occurrence datasets on the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS).
["Acceleration measurements"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿A Neotropical complex of Ripersiella species (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Rhizoecidae) collected from the nests of Acropyga ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
We describe five new Neotropical species of Ripersiella living in association with Acropyga ants: R. campensis sp. nov., R. illicians sp. nov., R. montanae sp. nov., R. pediandensis sp. nov., and R. telalia sp. nov. We also redescribe R. andensis and R. colombiensis based on type specimens and other collections. Together, these seven species form a morphologically similar group that we informally refer to as the andensis-complex of Ripersiella. All members of the andensis-complex are confirmed or are speculated to be mutualists of Acropyga ants. We discuss the implications of these associations and provide an identification key to the Neotropical species of Ripersiella that are lacking bitubular cerores, including the new species.
["Coccoidea"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Taxonomic study on the genus Xenicotela Bates from China (Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Lamiini)
A taxonomic review of the Chinese species of the genus Xenicotela Bates, 1884 is presented. A new species, Xenicotela griseomaculata sp. nov., is described from Chongqing, China, and a new combination, Xenicotela convexicollis (Gressitt, 1942) comb. nov., is proposed.
["Longhorned beetles"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿Phylogenetic relationships among the species of the Cameroonian endemic freshwater crab genus Louisea Cumberlidge, 1994 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Potamonautidae), with notes on intraspecific morphological variation within two threatened species
Louisea Cumberlidge, 1994 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Potamonautidae) currently includes four endemic Cameroonian freshwater crab species whose phylogenetic relationships were previously unresolved. In the present study, phylogenetic analyses are carried out involving three mtDNA loci (COI, 12S rRNA, and 16S rRNA). The COI locus revealed divergence times of 5.6 million years ago (myr) for when L. balssi (Bott, 1959) diverged from L. edeaensis (Bott, 1969); 4.1 myr for when L. edeaensis diverged from L. yabassi Mvogo Ndongo, von Rintelen & Cumberlidge, 2019; and 2.48 myr for when the later species diverged from L. nkongsamba Mvogo Ndongo, von Rintelen & Cumberlidge, 2019. Three genetic lineages were found within L. nkongsamba that are supported by uncorrected p-distances and the haplotype network. Morphological variation in some taxonomically important characters was found within both L. nkongsamba and L. yabassi. No correlation, however, was found between the morphotypes within these species and the uncovered genetic lineages. Recognition of species boundaries and of subpopulations of species will prove valuable when making informed conservation decisions as part of the development of species action plans for these rare and threatened freshwater crabs.
["Decapoda"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Three new deep-sea species of Marphysa (Annelida, Eunicida, Eunicidae) from Papua New Guinea (Bismarck and Solomon seas)
Three new species of Marphysa Quatrefages, 1866, Marphysa banana sp. nov., Marphysa papuaensis sp. nov., and Marphysa zanolae sp. nov. are described from deep-sea sunken vegetation off Papua New Guinea, using both morphology and molecular data (for two species). With the presence of compound spinigers only and the branchiae present over many chaetigers, Marphysa banana sp. nov. belongs to the group B2. This species is characterised by the presence of eyes, the presence of branchiae starting from chaetiger 20, and by the presence of three types of pectinate chaetae and bidentate subacicular hooks starting from chaetigers 13–52. With the presence of compound falcigers only and the branchiae restricted to a short anterior region, Marphysa papuaensis sp. nov. belongs to the group C1. This species has a bilobed prostomium but no eyes, has branchiae from chaetigers 7 to 14–16 with up to 16 filaments. Marphysa papuaensis sp. nov. is also characterised by the presence of bidentate subacicular hooks from chaetiger 20 and by a single type of pectinate chaetae. Finally, Marphysa zanolae sp. nov. belongs to the group C2, with the presence of compound falcigers only and the branchiae present over many chaetigers. This species is characterised by the absence of eyes, by the presence of branchiae with a single long filament starting from chaetiger 31, by unidentate subacicular hooks starting from chaetiger 28 and finally by one type of pectinate chaetae with very long outer teeth.
["Bloodworm"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿A new species of Racelda Signoret, with taxonomical notes and a key to the males of the genus (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Ectrichodiinae, Ectrichodiini)
Racelda ottoi Oliveira & Gil-Santana, sp. nov., belonging to the tribe Ectrichodiini in the subfamily Ectrichodiinae, is described based on males from northeastern Brazil. Photographs of the male types of Racelda alternans Signoret, 1863, R. moerens Breddin, 1898, and R. spurca (Stål, 1860) are presented. A summary of and notes on the taxonomic history of the genus and a key to males are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿Long-term stability in the winter diet of the Japanese serow (Artiodactyla, Caprinae)
The winter diets of northern ungulates are sensitive to changes in environmental conditions and ungulate population densities. We hypothesized that the winter diets of smaller browser ungulates might not readily change in response to fluctuating environmental conditions. We analyzed long-term trends in the winter diet of the Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) by analyzing rumen contents of 532 individuals over a span of 16 years among five populations along with changes in the population densities of sika deer (Cervus nippon) in Nagano Prefecture, central Japan. The winter diet composition of the serow was stable over the long term despite the increase in deer population density. The little-flexible nature of the serow diet may explain the long-term stability in the winter diets.
["browser"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Phylogeography and ecology of bumble bees on Kolguev Island, a remote European Arctic landmass
The bumble bee fauna of the Russian Arctic is rather poorly known. Kolguev Island, a remote insular territory in the Barents Sea, is one of the deficiently studied areas. In this study, material on Kolguev’s bumble bees is re-examined, phylogeographic data analysed, putative scenarios explaining the origin of the bumble bee fauna on the island discussed, and the biology and phenology of these insular populations described. Five bumble bee species, i.e., Bombus flavidus, B. lapponicus, B. jonellus, B. pyrrhopygus, and B. balteatus, were recorded on this island. All of these species are widespread throughout the Eurasian Arctic. Bumble bee populations on Kolguev Island are characterised by a low level of molecular divergence from mainland populations. Based on paleogeographic reconstructions and phylogeographic patterns, it is hypothesised that the bumble bees appeared on this island in the Early Holocene. The lack of rodents (lemmings and voles) sharply decreases the number of available nesting places for bumble bees on Kolguev Island.
["Bumble bees"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿Contribution to the knowledge of the genus Solskyia Solsky, 1881 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Akidini) from China
Two new species of the genus Solskyia, S. infossata sp. nov. and S. lhozhaga sp. nov., are described and illustrated from Xizang, China. Solskyia lhasana is redescribed and figured based on a male, and new material of S. caporiaccoi and S. parvicollis from China is documented. The ecology and biology of adults and larvae is briefly introduced. Furthermore, photographs of habitat, and a key to Chinese species are presented.

﻿Leaving no stone unturned: three additional new species of Atractus ground snakes (Serpentes, Colubridae) from Ecuador discovered using a biogeographical approach
The genus Atractus includes 146 species of cryptozoic snakes occurring from Panama to northeastern Argentina. Here, a molecular phylogeny of this genus is presented, which encompasses 29% (= 42; six are included here for the first time) of the species currently recognized. Morphological and phylogenetic support is found for three new species of ground snakes, which are described here based on their unique combination of molecular, meristic, and color pattern characteristics. The name A. arangoi Prado, 1939 is revalidated for a Colombian snake species previously subsumed under A. major Boulenger, 1894 based on new material collected in Ecuador. Reidentifications are provided for Atractus voucher specimens and sequences deposited in GenBank. With these changes, the number of Atractus reported in Ecuador increases from 27 to 31 species. Finally, attention is given to the importance of using a biogeographical framework that includes molecular data and a comprehensive geographic sampling when proposing species limits in complex taxonomic groups.

Taxonomical review of Prosymna angolensis Boulenger, 1915 (Elapoidea, Prosymnidae) with the description of two new species
African Shovel-snout snakes (Prosymna Gray, 1849) are small, semi-fossorial snakes with a unique compressed and beak-like snout. Prosymna occur mainly in the savanna of sub-Saharan Africa. Of the 16 currently recognised species, four occur in Angola: Prosymna ambigua Bocage, 1873, P. angolensis Boulenger, 1915, P. frontalis (Peters, 1867), and P. visseri FitzSimons, 1959. The taxonomical status and evolutionary relationships of P. angolensis have never been assessed due to the lack of genetic material. This species is known to occur from western Angola southwards to Namibia, and eastwards to Zambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. The species shows considerable variation in dorsal colouration across its range, and with the lower ventral scales count, an ‘eastern race’ was suggested. In recent years, Prosymna material from different parts of Angola has been collected, and with phylogenetic analysis and High Resolution X-ray Computed Tomography, the taxonomic status of these populations can be reviewed. Strong phylogenetic evidence was found to include the angolensis subgroup as part of the larger sundevalli group, and the existence of three phylogenetic lineages within the angolensis subgroup were identified, which each exhibit clear morphological and colouration differences. One of these lineages is assigned to the nominotypical P. angolensis and the other two described as new species, one of which corroborates the distinct eastern population previously detected. These results reinforce that a considerable part of Angolan herpetological diversity is still to be described and the need for further studies.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Ecdyonurus aurasius sp. nov. (Insecta, Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae, Ecdyonurinae), a new micro-endemic mayfly species from Aurès Mountains (north-eastern Algeria)
Ecdyonurus aurasius sp. nov., a micro-endemic species reported from several streams within the Aurès Mountains (north-eastern Algeria), is described and illustrated at nymphal, subimaginal and imaginal stages of both sexes. Critical morphological diagnostic characters distinguishing the new species are presented, together with molecular affinities as well as notes on the biology and distribution of the species.
["Belezma National Park"]

﻿Morphological description and mitochondrial DNA-based phylogenetic placement of a new species of Callistoctopus Taki, 1964 (Cephalopoda, Octopodidae) from the southeast waters of China
In this study, we described a new species of octopus and named it Callistoctopus xiaohongxu sp. nov. based on nine specimens captured in the waters of southeast China. Callistoctopus xiaohongxu sp. nov. is a small to moderate-sized octopus. The most characteristic and defining morphological features are the reddish-orange to reddish-brown skin, gills with 8 or 9 lamellae per demibranch, \∧/-shaped funnel organ, and small suckers. Fragments obtained from the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene of nine specimens were 593 bp in length, and the genetic distance among the specimens of C. xiaohongxu sp. nov. and the other 16 octopods ranged from 11.13 to 21.09%. Topologies resulting from ML and BI analyses of the COI gene showed a highly supported monophyletic clade (bootstrap value [BS] = 94%, posterior probability [PP] = 100%) containing all the specimens identified as C. xiaohongxu sp. nov.
["Callistoctopus xiaohongxu sp. nov."]
["Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

﻿A new genus and species of minute litter bugs family Schizopteridae Reuter, 1891 from China (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Dipsocoromorpha)
A new genus and species of Schizopteridae, Cornonannus bui gen. et sp. nov. is described from Yunnan Province, China. The new genus is closest to Pachyplagia Gross, 1951, Ogeria, Distant 1913, and Kaimon Hill, 2004 in morphology, but it can be distinguished from these genera by the male having a frontal process, the absence of pronotal collar, the distinct venation of forewing, a tarsi formula of 3-3-3, and the middle area of abdominal tergites I to VII with small, round tubercles. Photographs of the male habitus, head, thorax, abdomen, appendages, and genitalic structures, as well as scanning electron micrographs of the male head, thorax, abdomen, and genitalic structures and drawings of male genitalia, are provided. Moreover, a key to all known Chinese schizopterid genera is presented.
["Cornonannus bui gen. et sp. nov."]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿Two new synonyms in the subfamily Theridiinae (Araneae, Theridiidae)
Two new synonyms in the subfamily Theridiinae Sundevall, 1833 (Araneae, Theridiidae) are reported. Theridion hui Zhu, 1998 is proposed as a junior synonym of Theridion innocuum Thorell, 1875, and Theridion qingzangense Hu, 2001 is proposed as a junior synonym of Phylloneta impressa (L. Koch, 1881). Photos of habitus and copulatory organs are provided for both species.

﻿The bees of the genus Andrena Fabricius, 1775 (Hymenoptera, Andrenidae) described by Ferdinand Morawitz from the collection of Aleksey Fedtschenko
The type specimens of the genus Andrena Fabricius, 1775, described by Ferdinand Morawitz from the collection of Aleksey Fedtschenko deposited in the Zoological Museum of the Moscow State University and in the Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg (Russia), are critically reviewed. Precise information with illustrations of types for 52 taxa is provided; of these 39 species are valid and thirteen are invalid (ten synonyms and three homonyms). Lectotypes are here designated for the following 24 nominal taxa: Andrena acutilabris Morawitz, 1876, A. aulica Morawitz, 1876, A. bicarinata Morawitz, 1876, A. combusta Morawitz, 1876, A. comparata Morawitz, 1876, A. corallina Morawitz, 1876, A. discophora Morawitz, 1876, A. fedtschenkoi Morawitz, 1876, A. initialis Morawitz, 1876, A. laeviventris Morawitz, 1876, A. leucorhina Morawitz, 1876, A. mucorea Morawitz, 1876, A. nitidicollis Morawitz, 1876, A. oralis Morawitz, 1876, A. planirostris Morawitz, 1876, A. ravicollis Morawitz, 1876, A. rufilabris Morawitz, 1876, A. sarta Morawitz, 1876, A. smaragdina Morawitz, 1876, A. sogdiana Morawitz, 1876, A. subaenescens Morawitz, 1876, A. tuberculiventris Morawitz, 1876, A. turkestanica Morawitz, 1876, and A. virescens Morawitz, 1876.
["Anthophila"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Discovery of a new limestone karst-restricted odorous frog from northern Guangdong, China (Anura, Ranidae, Odorrana)
Karstic landscapes play an important role in biodiversity formation and often contain high levels of endemism. However, site-endemic taxa in karstic landscapes are being threatened by exploitation and weak legal protection. In this study, we describe Odorrana concelata Wang, Zeng, & Lin, sp. nov., a limestone karst-restricted odorous frog from northern Guangdong, China. This new species shows distinctive genetic divergence and morphological differences from its congeners. Phylogenetic results suggest that the new species represents an independent lineage that is grouped with O. lipuensis and O. liboensis based on the mitochondrial 16S and 12S ribosomal RNA genes. We recommend the new species be listed as Vulnerable (VU) in the IUCN categorization as it is only known from the type locality with limited microhabitats and is threatened by habitat degradation.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Exploring the diversity of Eupolyphaga Chopard, 1929 (Blattodea, Corydioidea): species delimitation based on morphology and molecular analysis
Eupolyphaga Chopard, 1929 is a cockroach genus mainly endemic to China. In this study, the species diversity of this genus is further explored through morphology and molecular analysis. Four species are described new to science: Eupolyphaga miracidia Qiu, sp. nov., Eupolyphaga udenostyla Qiu, sp. nov., Eupolyphaga reducta Qiu, sp. nov., and Eupolyphaga simila Qiu, sp. nov. New knowledge on some known species is added, including new distribution records and characteristics of females. Forty-five COI sequences were newly sequenced and a molecular species delimitation analysis was performed using ABGD method. Eighteen molecular operational taxonomic units were obtained by ABGD analysis, which are nearly consistent with the results of morphological delimitation.
["ABGD"]

﻿Pinctada phuketensis sp. nov. (Bivalvia, Ostreida, Margaritidae), a new pearl oyster species from Phuket, western coast of Thailand
A new species of the genus Pinctada is described from samples collected from the east coast of Phuket Island, Thailand in the Andaman Sea. Pinctada phuketensis sp. nov. is distinguished from other species on both molecular and morphological data. Morphologically, the valves of P. phuketensis are characterized by a slightly developed to undeveloped posterior auricle, a small, narrow slit-like byssal notch, the absence of hinge teeth, and a pale to transparent non-nacreous border, with a few dark brown or red blotches. This new species resembles P. fucata but differs by its smaller size and the absence of hinge teeth. Phylogenetic analyses based on both mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (18S rDNA, ITS1 and ITS2) genes and species delimitation using COI data strongly support that P. phuketensis is a distinct species, which is closely related to Pinctada albina and Pinctada nigra.
["Indian Ocean"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

﻿A review of the sinica species group within the genus Lilioceris (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Criocerinae)
A new species group of the genus Lilioceris Reitter, 1913 is proposed and reviewed, the sinica group. It includes six species: L. gressitti Medvedev, 1958; L. rugata (Baly, 1865); L. sieversi (Heyden, 1887); L. sinica (Heyden, 1887); L. theana (Reitter, 1898) stat. nov.; and L. thibetana (Pic, 1916). Among them, L. theana is resurrected as a valid species from synonymy with L. rugata, and is newly reported from China. Redescriptions, an identification key, figures of habitus and male and female genitalia, geographic distributions, host plants, and habitats (if known) are provided for these species.

﻿Annotated checklist of the operculated land snails from Thailand (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Caenogastropoda): the family Pupinidae, with descriptions of several new species and subspecies, and notes on classification of Pupina Vignard, 1829 and Pupinella Gray, 1850 from mainland Southeast Asia
Thailand is located at the crossroads of several biogeographical regions, and boasts a high level of biodiversity, especially among the malacofauna. The most recent checklist of land snail species in Thailand was compiled more than twenty years ago, and so this checklist needs revision and the addition of newly discovered taxa. This study updates the taxonomy and species list of the operculated land snail family Pupinidae from Thailand. This snail family is diverse and abundant, and can be found in various natural habitats in Southeast Asia. Although the taxonomy of some Southeast Asian pupinid genera has been reviewed, studies of Pupina Vignard, 1829, which contains the highest number of species, and a lesser-known genus Pupinella Gray, 1850 are still lacking. Herein we present an annotated checklist with an up-to-date systematic framework of the Pupinidae in Thailand based on both field investigations and literature surveys, and include the taxonomic treatment of all Pupina and Pupinella species from mainland Southeast Asia. This annotated checklist contains 30 nominal species and two subspecies from seven genera currently known to occur in Thailand. We describe two species of Pseudopomatias (P. doiangkhangensis Jirapatrasilp, sp. nov. and P. pallgergelyi Jirapatrasilp, sp. nov.), five species and one subspecies of Pupina (P. bensoni Jirapatrasilp, sp. nov., P. bilabiata Jirapatrasilp, sp. nov., P. godwinausteni Jirapatrasilp, sp. nov., P. latisulci Jirapatrasilp, sp. nov., P. stoliczkai Jirapatrasilp, sp. nov., and P. dorri isanensis Jirapatrasilp, ssp. nov.) as new to science. New records of Coptocheilus sumatranus, Pupinella mansuyi, and Rhaphaulus tonkinensis are also reported from Thailand. The mainland Southeast Asian Pupina species are classified into three species groups (Pupina artata group, Pupina arula group, and Pupina aureola group) based on the distinction of shell teeth and canals, and operculum. Three species formerly in Pupina from Vietnam are allocated to Pupinella (P. illustris comb. nov., P. sonlaensis comb. nov., and P. thaitranbaii comb. nov.) due to the presence of a funnel-like anterior canal.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Paleopathology and ancient diseases", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿A checklist of black flies (Diptera, Simuliidae) from India
An updated checklist of the family Simuliidae from India is presented. A total of 79 species of Simulium belonging to eight different subgenera are listed. Eleven species that were not reported in the previous checklist are added here. The present list contributes to a better understanding of the diversity of Simuliidae in India, as well as the impact of Simulium species on the public health of this mega-diverse country.
["Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿A new species of giant Eunice (Eunicidae, Polychaeta, Annelida) from the east coast of Australia
A new giant species is described from New South Wales, Australia. Eunice dharastii sp. nov. differs from described Australian species and is most similar to E. aphroditois (Pallas, 1788), E. flavopicta Izuka, 1912, and E. kinbergi Ehlers, 1868. The unique combination of features that characterizes the new species is irregular articulated prostomial appendages; antennae reaching back beyond chaetiger 4; branchiae starting at chaetiger 10, initially button-shaped and distinctly longer than notopodial cirri where best developed; dorsal fleshy knobs on anterior chaetal lobes; notopodial cirri pendulous, abrupt tapering from inflated bases; bidentate compound falcigerous chaetae with both teeth directed laterally, distal tooth much shorter than proximal tooth in median and posterior chaetigers; and dark bidentate subacicular hooks starting at chaetiger 58, tapering to a small head with both teeth directed distally, and proximal tooth much larger than minute and spur-like distal tooth. This new species lives in sandy sediments in coastal waters 1–8 m deep. It is highly mobile and not easy to collect, which may explain why it was not described before.
["Bobbit worm"]

﻿Two new species of Alainites (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot
The mayfly genus Alainites Waltz & McCafferty, 1994 encompassed 20 species and was represented across the West Palaearctic region by six species. Based on morphological (nymphal characters) and molecular (mitochondrial COI sequences) evidence, two new species are described: A. bengunn sp. nov. from Sardinia and A. gasithi sp. nov. from Israel. Both species are confined to narrow distribution ranges, in line with most of their congeners from the region. The key nymphal traits are discussed and identified to distinguish species in the group.

﻿A new genus and nine species of jumping spiders from Hainan Island, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
A new genus and eight new species of jumping spiders from Hainan Island, China are reported. Pengmarengo gen. nov. is erected to accommodate the type species P. yangi sp. nov. (♂♀). Further Pengmarengo gen. nov. species including P. chelifer (Simon, 1990), comb. nov. (transferred from Philates Simon, 1900), P. elongata (Peng & Li, 2002), comb. nov. (transferred from Tauala Wanless, 1988), and two species transferred from Indomarengo Benjamin, 2004: P. yui (Wang & Li, 2020), comb. nov., and P. wengnan (Wang & Li, 2022), comb. nov. Another seven new jumping spider species are described from Hainan: Irura liae sp. nov. (♂), I. mii sp. nov. (♂♀), Marengo ganae sp. nov. (♂♀), M. zhengi sp. nov. (♂♀), Nungia tangi sp. nov. (♂♀), Philates zhoui sp. nov. (♂♀), and Toxeus hainan sp. nov. (♂♀). The unknown female of the endemic species, Irura pengi Guo, Zhang & Zhu, 2011 is also described for the first time.

﻿An updated list of butterflies (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) of two Guatemalan seasonally dry forests
Guatemala has a great diversity of butterflies, although there have been few intensive surveys on Lepidoptera in the country so far. We present an updated list of 218 species in 149 genera, 19 subfamilies, and six families of butterflies sampled at two seasonally dry forests in the Salamá and Motagua valleys in central and eastern Guatemala, by integrating new data from field surveys conducted in 2014–2021 into our previously published data (Yoshimoto et al. 2018, 2019), with Amblyscirtes elissa elissa Godman, 1900, Repens florus (Godman, 1900), and Niconiades nikko Hayward, 1948 (Hesperiidae: Hesperiinae) as new country records. We collected a hairstreak species, Chalybs hassan (Stoll, 1790) (Lycaenidae: Theclinae), at the Motagua Valley site, representing the second record for Guatemala since the early 20th century, after we rediscovered it at the Salamá Valley site in 2011 and 2012 (Yoshimoto and Salinas-Gutiérrez 2015). Nymphalidae and Hesperiidae had larger numbers of species than the other four families at both sites. In Pieridae and Nymphalidae, species composition was similar between the sites, whereas in Lycaenidae, Riodinidae, and Papilionidae it differed more greatly between the sites. These results confirm the relatively high lepidopteran diversity of Guatemalan dry forests, noteworthy for the small areas that comprise the study sites, and represent marked similarities and differences in butterfly fauna and phenology within these forests.
["Annotated list"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Review of the millipede genus Malayorthomorpha Mršić, 1996 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae), with descriptions of two new species from Thailand and a key to its species
The millipede genus Malayorthomorpha Mršić, 1996, so far monospecific and previously known only from Park Belum, Perak State, northern Malaysia, is recorded from a mountain in Betong District, Yala Province, southern Thailand for the first time, being represented there by two new species: M. halabala sp. nov. and M. hulutbeeda sp. nov. Both new species are found to occur syntopically and can be assumed as narrowly endemic to the Titiwangsa Mountain Range which begins in southern Thailand, crosses the Malaysian border, and extends into east and west coast regions of the Malay Peninsula. In addition, the generic diagnosis is slightly updated, and a key to all three species is provided.
["Malaysia"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿A new species of the genus Prosopistoma Latreille, 1833 (Ephemeroptera, Prosopistomatidae) from Morocco
We describe a new species of Prosopistoma collected in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Prosopistoma maroccanum sp. nov. appears to be morphologically more similar to the European highly endangered P. pennigerum (Müller, 1785) than to the other Maghrebian species, P. alaini Bojkova & Soldán, 2015. A gene tree including the few available barcode sequences of Palearctic Prosopistoma specimens is provided. Possible affinities with West African species are also discussed.
["High Atlas Mountains"]

﻿A new species of the hitherto monospecific genus Pleonoporus Attems, 1938 (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Odontopygidae)
The hitherto monospecific genus Pleonoporus is revised based on the syntypes of P. robustus Attems, 1938, housed in Naturhistorisches Museum Wien (NHMW), as well as on specimens of what we interpret as a new species of the genus, Pleonoporus tanzanicus sp. nov., collected in Tanzania and housed in the Museum of Nature – Zoology, Leibnitz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change (ZMH) for more than a century. Both species are described based on habitus and gonopod structures and illustrated with micrographs, whereas scanning electron microscope images are also provided for the new species. This paper further highlights the importance of natural history collections for taxonomic research and studies on species diversity in general.
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿Two new alkali-sink specialist species of Paruroctonus Werner 1934 (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae) from central California
Herein we describe two new species of Paruroctonus (Werner 1934) from California: Paruroctonus soda sp. nov. from the Soda Lake playa at the center of the Carrizo Plain in San Luis Obispo county and Paruroctonus conclusus sp. nov. from the Koehn Lake playa in the Mojave Desert of Kern County. They can be differentiated from other Paruroctonus by a combination of morphological features including deeply scalloped pedipalp fingers in males, specific patterns of fuscous pigmentation, unique setal counts, and unique morphometric ratios. They can also be separated from one another by the latter three characters. Photographs of a large selection of live scorpions are provided, including detailed images and figures of many morphological features. Their distributions, habitats, and ecologies are discussed; and important steps towards their conservation are described.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿A new species of Rhacophorus (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from Guangxi, China
Based on morphological and molecular evidence of five male adult specimens collected from Napo County, Baise City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, we describe a new species of Rhacophorus, Rhacophorus napoensis sp. nov. This new species is similar to Rhacophorus rhodopus Liu & Hu, 1959 and Rhacophorus bipunctatus Ahl, 1927 in morphology, but it can be distinguished from the latter two by the following morphological characteristics: head width is greater than head length, snout pointed, loreal region oblique, tympanum distinct, maxillary teeth distinct, tongue cordiform, external single subgular vocal sac, tibiotarsal articulation reaches the snout, tibia length is greater than foot length and slightly greater than half of snout-vent length, and single outer metatarsal tubercle is flat. The phylogenetic tree constructed based on 16S rRNA sequence shows that all individuals of this species clustered into the same clade, and genetically this new species differs from R. rhodopus and R. bipunctatus by 7.71% and 7.98% in 16S rRNA sequences, respectively.

﻿A new genus and new species of Ecuadorian Philopotamidae (Trichoptera)
A new genus and species of Philopotamidae (Trichoptera), Sumacodella elongata, is described from the southern slope of Volcán Sumaco in Ecuador. This new genus differs from other philopotamid genera by having very elongate, narrow anterolateral apodemes on segment IX and the inferior appendages, a very elongate and narrow tergum X, and a very elongate, tubular phallus. In addition, two new species of Wormaldia are also described and illustrated from Sumaco as well as three new Chimarra (Chimarra), one new Chimarra (Curgia), and one new Chimarra (Otarrha) from the eastern and western slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿One new genus and two new species of the spider family Phrurolithidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Southwest China
Edelithus gen. nov. is described based on the discovery and description of two new species from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China: E. puer sp. nov. and E. shenmiguo sp. nov. Both species are described in detail and illustrated. Types are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing, China.
["Eurasia"]

﻿A new species of Gammarus (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridae) from South Korea
A new species of freshwater gammarid, Gammarus somaemulensis sp. nov., was collected from Somaemuldo Island, South Korea. This new species is morphologically characterised by the absence of calceoli in antenna 2, absence of anteroproximal setae on bases in pereopods 6 and 7, outer ramus in uropod 3 with plumose setae on both margins, and a small terminal article of the outer ramus, which is shorter than adjacent spines. A description of the new species and morphological differences from related species are provided in the text. The new species was also compared to related species using partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Genetic distances of COI sequences between the new species and related species, consisting of 21.5–26.3% difference, support Gammarus somaemulensis sp. nov. as a valid species. Additionally, a key to identifying Gammarus species in South Korea is provided.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Two new species of the genus Paradexamine (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Dexaminidae) from Korean Waters
Two dexaminid amphipod species belonging to the genus Paradexamine were collected from Korean waters. After observation and identification compared with related congeners, these two species are revealed to be new to science. In comparative identification, one of the new species, P. acuta sp. nov. is similar to P. houtete in having an acutely rounded lobe and posteroventrally pointed coxa 7. However, this new species is distinguished from P. houtete in having a larger number of medial setae on the propodus of gnathopod 1 and a rounded basis of pereopod 6. This new species is also very similar to P. marlie s.l. Hirayama from Japanese waters, and P. marlie s.l. might be re-established or synonymized with P. acuta sp. nov. in the future. The other new species, P. rotundogena sp. nov. is similar to P. tafunsaka in having a rounded eye lobe; however, it is distinguished from P. tafunsaka in having an elongate carpus on gnathopod 2 and the differently shaped basis of pereopod 7. A key to the five Korean species of Paradexamine, including the two new species, is also provided.

﻿Revision of the freshwater crabs of the genus Tehuana Rodríguez & Smalley in Smalley 1970 (Decapoda, Pseudothelphusidae), with the descriptions of two new species
The freshwater crab genus Tehuana Rodríguez & Smalley in Smalley, 1970 includes eight species distributed in southeastern Mexico. A recent review of organisms belonging to this genus uncovered new variations in the male gonopod morphology. A phylogenetic analysis based on molecular characters using three genes (H3, 16S, and COI) resulted in the identification of two new species which are described herein: Tehuana ayotzintepecensis sp. nov. from Oaxaca and Tehuana col sp. nov. from Veracruz. New diagnoses are provided for those species that had very brief descriptions lacking the treatment of important taxonomic characters and an identification key for all the species in the genus is also given. A discussion of the distribution of all the species in Tehuana in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec is presented.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Two new species of Metapocyrtus (Orthocyrtus) Heller, 1912 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae) from southern Mindanao, Philippines, with ecological notes
Two new species of the genus Metapocyrtus Heller, 1912, subgenus Orthocyrtus Heller, 1912 are described and illustrated from southern Mindanao, Philippines: M. (O.) melibengoy sp. nov. and M. (O.) flomlok sp. nov. Another two species were transferred from the subgenus Artapocyrtus Heller, 1912 to Orthocyrtus, namely, M. (O.) willietorresi Cabras & Medina, 2018 and M. (O.) villalobosae Patano et al., 2021. Ecological notes are provided.

﻿A new species of Sinopoda from China, with first description of the male of S. wuyiensis Liu, 2021 (Araneae, Sparassidae)
One new species of the genus Sinopoda Jäger, 1999, S. muyuensis sp. nov. (♂, ♀), is described and figured from the Shennongjia Forestry District, Hubei Province, China. In addition, the male of Sinopoda wuyiensis Liu, 2021 is described for the first time from the Wuyishan National Nature Reserve, Fujian Province, China.

﻿On eleven species of jumping spiders from Xishuangbanna, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
One new genus and eight new species from Xishuangbanna, China are described and diagnosed: Bocusoides zhaoi gen. and sp. nov., Euochin mii sp. nov. (♂♀), E. tangi sp. nov. (♀), Eupoa logunovi sp. nov. (♂♀), Indomarengo wengnan sp. nov. (♀), Laufeia zhangae sp. nov. (♂♀), Simaetha huigang sp. nov. (♂♀), and Synagelides cheni sp. nov. (♀). The unknown sexes of three endemic species, Chalcovietnamicus lii (Lei & Peng, 2010) comb. nov. (ex Chalcoscirtus Bertkau, 1880), Indomarengo yui Wang & Li, 2020, and Rhene triapophyses Peng, 1995 are described for the first time.

﻿A new species of Bathypathes (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Antipatharia, Schizopathidae) from the Red Sea and its phylogenetic position
A black coral, Bathypathes thermophila Chimienti, sp. nov. is described from the Saudi Arabian coasts of the Gulf of Aqaba and north Red Sea (Neom area) using an integrated taxonomic approach. The morphological distinctiveness of the new species is confirmed by molecular analyses. The species thrives in warm and high salinity waters typical of the Red Sea at bathyal depths. It can form colony aggregations on muddy bottoms with scattered, small hard substrates. Colonies are monopodial, feather-like, and attached to a hard substrate through a thorny basal plate. Pinnules are simple, arranged biserially and alternately, and all the same length (up to approximately 20 cm) except for few, proximal ones. Spines are triangular, laterally compressed, subequal, smooth, and simple or rarely bifurcated. Polyps are elongated transversely, 1.5–2.0 mm in transverse diameter. Large colonies can have one or few branches, whose origin is discussed. The phylogenetic position of B. thermophila sp. nov. within the order Antipatharia, recovered using three mitochondrial markers, shows that it is nested within the family Schizopathidae. It is close to species in the genera Parantipathes, Lillipathes, Alternatipathes, and Umbellapathes rather than to the other available representatives of the genus Bathypathes, as currently defined based on morphology. In agreement with previous findings, our results question the evolutionary significance of morphological characters traditionally used to discriminate Antipatharia at higher taxonomic level.
["Black corals"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

﻿Traces of past reintroduction in genetic diversity: The case of the Balkan chamois (Mammalia, Artiodactyla)
The translocation of wild animal species became a common practice worldwide to re-establish local populations threatened with extinction. Archaeological data confirm that chamois once lived in the Biokovo Mountain but, prior to their reintroduction in the 1960s, there was no written evidence of their recent existence in the area. The population was reintroduced in the period 1964–1969, when 48 individuals of Balkan chamois from the neighbouring mountains in Bosnia and Herzegovina were released. The main objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of the existing historical data on the origin of the Balkan chamois population from the Biokovo Mountain and to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of the source and translocated populations 56 years after reintroduction. Sixteen microsatellite loci were used to analyse the genetic structure of three source chamois populations from Prenj, Čvrsnica and Čabulja Mountains and from Biokovo Mountain. Both STRUCTURE and GENELAND analyses showed a clear separation of the reintroduced population on Biokovo from Prenj’s chamois and considerable genetic similarity between the Biokovo population and the Čvrsnica-Čabulja population. This suggests that the current genetic composition of the Biokovo population does not derive exclusively from Prenj, as suggested by the available literature and personal interviews, but also from Čvrsnica and Čabulja. GENELAND analysis recognised the Balkan chamois from Prenj as a separate cluster, distinct from the populations of Čvrsnica and Čabulja. Our results thus highlight the need to implement genetic monitoring of both reintroduced and source populations of endangered Balkan chamois to inform sustainable management and conservation strategies in order to maximise the chances of population persistence.
["Biokovo"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿Taxonomic review of the subgenus Tatsipolia Benedek, Behounek, Floriani & Saldaitis of the genus Dasypolia Guenée with descriptions of two new species from southern Xizang, China (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
The subgenus Tatsipolia Benedek, Behounek, Floriani & Saldaitis, 2011 of the genus Dasypolia Guenée, 1852 is reviewed. Two new species, D. (T.) sejilaensis sp. nov. and D. (T.) cerritula sp. nov. are described from the Linzhi (Nyingchi) Prefecture in southern Xizang, China. The adults and the male and female genitalia of all species in the subgenus are illustrated. Additionally, Dasypolia (Auropolia) carlotta Floriani, Benedek, Behounek & Saldaitis, 2011 is reported from Xizang for the first time.
["Antitypina"]

﻿Morphological, molecular, and life cycle study of a new species of Oligogonotylus Watson, 1976 (Digenea, Cryptogonimidae) from Colombia
The present study describes Oligogonotylus andinus sp. nov. and its life cycle from a rural fish farm in Sopetrán, Antioquia, Colombia. The endemic species of snail Aroapyrgus colombiensis and the fishes Poecilia caucana and Andinoacara latifrons are identified as the first intermediate host, the second intermediate host and the definitive host, respectively. The new species was defined through an integrative approach, combining the traditional morphology of its developmental stages with molecular analyses of the markers ITS2 from ribosomal DNA and COI from mitochondrial DNA. This new species can be distinguished from its congeners by genetic divergence, the position of the vitelline fields, and the number of gonotyls. This work represents the first report of a species of this genus in South America.
["Blue mojarra"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

﻿Two new species of the dwarf centipede genus Nannarrup Foddai, Bonato, Pereira & Minelli, 2003 (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha, Mecistocephalidae) from Japan
The genus Nannarrup Foddai, Bonato, Pereira & Minelli, 2003 is a monotypic genus established on the basis of the possibly introduced species N. hoffmani Foddai, Bonato, Pereira & Minelli, 2003, from New York, USA. In the present study, in a field survey conducted throughout Japan, Nannarrup-like specimens were collected from Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. These specimens clearly showed the diagnostic characteristics of the genus but were morphologically distinct from N. hoffmani. Furthermore, morphological analysis and DNA barcoding revealed that these specimens could be assigned to two distinct undescribed species. On the basis of these results, N. innuptus Tsukamoto, sp. nov. and N. oyamensis Tsukamoto, sp. nov. are described. The three Nannarrup species can be distinguished from each other on the basis of the following combination of characteristics: presence or absence of a pair of smooth or weakly areolate areas along the posterior part of the paraclypeal sutures; the width-to-length ratio of the denticle on the trochanteroprefemur; the pigmentation of the denticle on the tarsungulum. Moreover, the field survey resulted in the collection of exclusively female specimens of N. innuptus Tsukamoto, sp. nov., which shows the possibility of parthenogenesis of this species.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Complete mitochondrial genomes of two catfishes (Siluriformes, Bagridae) and their phylogenetic implications
The mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) has been widely used as a molecular marker to investigate phylogenetic analysis and evolutionary history in fish. However, the study of mitogenomes is still scarce in the family Bagridae. In this study, the mitogenomes of Tachysurus brachyrhabdion and T. gracilis were sequenced, annotated, and analyzed. The mitogenomes were found to be 16,532 bp and 16,533 bp, respectively, and each contained 37 typical mitochondrial genes, which are 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes, and a control region. All PCGs begin with the codon ATG, except for the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene, while seven PCGs end with an incomplete termination codon. All tRNA genes can fold into their typical cloverleaf secondary structures, except for tRNASer(AGY), which lacks the dihydrouracil arm. The Ka/Ks ratios for all PCGs are far lower than one. Phylogenetic analyses based on Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) showed that the two clades in Bagridae excluded Rita rita. The monophyly of Tachysurus supports previous research and the traditional classification that Leiocassis, Pseudobagrus, Pelteobagrus, and Tachysurus belong to one genus (Tachysurus). These findings provide a phylogenetic basis for future phylogenetic and taxonomic studies of Bagridae.
["bagrid catfish"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Updated taxonomic keys for European Hippoboscidae (Diptera), and expansion in Central Europe of the bird louse fly Ornithomya comosa (Austen, 1930) with the first record from Slovakia
The available keys for European Hippoboscidae are outdated and do not cover all species currently known from Europe. Therefore, identification keys to the eleven genera and 31 species of the European hippoboscids are provided here. Ornithomya comosa (Austen, 1930) (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) is recorded for the first time from the territory of Slovakia based on one female found on a sand martin, Riparia riparia (Linnaeus, 1758). The list of keds and louse flies recorded from the territory of Slovakia is increased to 20 species. New host records for Slovakia are presented.
["Birds"]
["Bartonella species infections research", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

﻿First record of Lepidiella Enderlein, 1937 from the Oriental Region (Diptera, Psychodidae)
We provide the first record of the genus Lepidiella Enderlein, 1937 from the Oriental Region with the description of Lepidiella limicornis sp. nov., based on two male specimens collected in Thailand. Additionally, we provide a list of the world species of Lepidiella and discuss the diagnosis and taxonomic placement of the genus.
["Moth flies"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

﻿Symbiotic copepods (Cyclopoida and Siphonostomatoida) collected by light trap from Korea
Thirty-nine species of symbiotic copepods, comprising 24 species of poecilostome Cyclopoida and 15 species of Siphonostomatoida, are reported from Korean waters, which were collected using underwater light traps at 33 collection sites around the South Korean coast. Ten new species are described: Hemicyclops rapax sp. nov. in the family Clausidiidae; Pontoclausia cochleata sp. nov. and P. pristina sp. nov. in the family Clausiidae; Heteranthessius unisetatus sp. nov. in the family Lichomolgidae; Pusanomyicola sensitivus gen. nov., sp. nov. in the family Myicolidae; Polyankylis bogilensis sp. nov. in the family Polyankyliidae; Pseudanthessius linguifer sp. nov. in the Pseudanthessiidae; Eupolymniphilus foliatus sp. nov. in the family Sabelliphilidae; and Acontiophorus estivalis sp. nov. and Thermocheres pacificus sp. nov. in the family Asterocheridae. Supplementary descriptions or notes for other species are provided as appropriate.
["Copepoda"]
["Athletic Training and Education", "Legal Issues in Education"]

﻿Taxonomic review of the genus Ammathella Volynkin, 2019 with descriptions of three new species from southeastern Xizang, China (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae, Lithosiini)
A brief taxonomic review of the lithosiinid genus Ammathella Volynkin, 2019 is presented. Three new species of the genus Ammathella Volynkin, 2019 are described from Motuo County, southeast Xizang: A. longicornuta S.-Y. Huang, Yin & Volynkin, sp. nov., A. lhoba S.-Y. Huang, Yin & Volynkin, sp. nov., and A. monpa S.-Y. Huang, Yin & Volynkin, sp. nov. A key to the species of the genus is provided. Adults and genitalia of both sexes are illustrated.
["Asura/Miltochrista complex"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Comparative morphology and key to Amydetinae genera, with description of three new firefly species (Coleoptera, Lampyridae)
Amydetinae is an exclusively Neotropical subfamily of fireflies, distributed among three genera: Amydetes Illiger, 1807, Magnoculus McDermott, 1964, and Memoan Silveira & Mermudes, 2013. Here, we describe three new species of Amydetinae: two belonging to Amydetes (A. alexi sp. nov. and A. marolae sp. nov.) and one to the previously monotypic Memoan (Me. conani sp. nov.). All three species are known only from the Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil. Endoskeletal structures of Memoan and Magnoculus species are described and compared with those of Amydetes for the first time. After studying the type material, Photinus fruhstorferi Pic, 1942 is transferred to Memoan, generating Memoan fruhstorferi comb. nov., and Me. ciceroi Silveira & Mermudes, 2013 syn. nov. is placed as a junior synonym. We also redescribe Magnoculus obscurus Olivier, 1885 and compare it to other species of genus and to other amydetine taxa to identify potential new diagnostic traits for the Amydetinae and its constituting genera. We provide an updated diagnosis for Memoan, illustrations for all four species, and a distribution map for the three new species, as well as a key to adult males of the three amydetine genera, and an updated key to Amydetes species based on males.
["Amydetes"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

﻿Exploring cryptic biodiversity in a world heritage site: a new pitviper (Squamata, Viperidae, Crotalinae) from Jiuzhaigou, Aba, Sichuan, China
This study presents a comprehensive morphological comparison along with molecular phylogeny of the genus Gloydius based on five mitochondrial genes (12S, 16S, COI, cytb, and ND4). The specimens collected from Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve are shown to be a new species, Gloydius lateralis sp. nov. Zhang, Shi, Jiang & Shi based on a combination of morphological and molecular accounts. G. lateralis sp. nov. differs from other congeneric species by a series of diagnostic morphological characteristics and forms a strongly supported monophyletic group. The new species is phylogenetically closely related to G. swild, another recently described species from Heishui, Aba, Sichuan.
["Asian pitviper"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Taxonomic review of Gallardoneris nonatoi (Ramos, 1976) comb. nov. (Annelida, Lumbrineridae), and description of a new species of Lumbrineris from the Gulf of Mexico
The small Lumbrineridae Gallardoneris iberica Martins, Carrera-Parra, Quintino & Rodrigues, 2012 was first described as new to science based on specimens from Portuguese waters. Then, it was successively reported from several south European areas, including Spain, Italy, Greece, and Cyprus. Here evidence is presented that G. iberica should be placed in synonymy with Lumbrineris nonatoi Ramos, 1976, originally described from NW Mediterranean waters, a species that fits with the diagnosis of Gallardoneris. Based on specimens from the French coasts of the NW Mediterranean, this paper (1) redescribes the species using the new combination Gallardoneris nonatoi (Ramos, 1976) and (2) provides a morphometric analysis of its main morphological characters. The lack of recent reports of G. nonatoi comb. nov. in Mediterranean waters is presumably due to the recent redescription of the species as L. nonatoi based on specimens from the Gulf of Mexico. However, these specimens belong to Lumbrineris, as currently defined. By assessing their morphological differences, it is concluded that the specimens from the Gulf of Mexico represent a different and new species, namely Lumbrineris jan sp. nov. Also discussed is the possible assignation of Lumbrineris longipodiata Cantone, 1990, a poorly known species seldom recorded since its original description from the Gulf of Catania (Mediterranean Sea) to Gallardoneris, as well as on whether it is a valid species or may be an additional junior synonym of G. nonatoi comb. nov.
["Gallardoneris iberica syn. nov. misidentification"]

﻿Scrobipalpulopsis aguilaensis sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae), the first representative of the genus discovered in the Atacama Desert, northern Chile
Genitalia morphology of a new gnorimoschemine micromoth (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae, Gelechiinae, Gnorimoschemini) discovered in the Atacama Desert, northern Chile, fits the original description of Scrobipalpulopsis Povolný, 1987, a genus previously synonymized with Scrobipalpula Povolný, 1964. The generic assignment of the new species was assessed using a Bayesian phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial DNA sequences. The new species, the type species of Scrobipalpulopsis and another species recently transferred from this genus to Scrobipalpula were grouped in a monophyletic cluster distantly related to that of Scrobipalpula. Furthermore, an ancestral state reconstruction analysis suggested that the presence of two pairs of processes on the vinculum in the male genitalia represents a synapomorphy for the cluster of three species. Accordingly, the revalidation of Scrobipalpulopsis gen. rev. (type species Phthorimaea stirodes Meyrick, 1931) and the reinstated combination Scrobipalpulopsis lutescella (Clarke, 1934) comb. rev. are proposed. The micromoth Scrobipalpulopsis aguilaensis sp. nov., whose larvae feed on inflorescences of the Chilean endemic Glandularia gynobasis (Verbenaceae), is described and illustrated. Genetic divergence with congenerics was found to be 2.5–4.4% (K2P). This discovery represents the first record of Scrobipalpulopsis from the Atacama Desert.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Taxonomic study on Sinopoda Jäger, 1999 (Araneae, Sparassidae, Heteropodinae), with three new species from Korea
The genus Sinopoda Jäger, 1999 is a group of huntsman spiders (Araneae: Sparassidae: Heteropodinae), and currently seven species have been reported in Korea. In this study, three new species are described from Korea, Sinopoda bigibba sp. nov., Sinopoda bogil sp. nov., and Sinopoda pantherina sp. nov.; Sinopoda jirisanensis Kim & Chae, 2013 is revalidated with neotype designation, and had been formerly synonymized with Sinopoda forcipata (Karsch, 1881). Additionally, all previous records of Sinopoda stellatops Jäger & Ono, 2002 and S. forcipata from Korea are deemed misidentifications of S. jirisanensis and S. bogil sp. nov., respectively.

﻿A new species of Neotoxoscelus Fisher, 1921 (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) from South Korea, with an updated checklist
Neotoxoscelus petilus sp. nov. is described from South Korea. Neotoxoscelus Fisher, 1921 is also a new generic record for South Korea. A key to the Neotoxoscelus species and an updated checklist are provided.
["Buprestidae"]

﻿A peculiar new species of Dione (Agraulis) Boisduval & Le Conte (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Heliconiinae) associated with Malesherbia Ruiz & Pavón (Passifloraceae) in xeric western slopes of the Andes
Butterflies associated with xerophytic environments of the Andes have been little studied, and they exhibit high levels of endemism. Herein Dione (Agraulis) dodona Lamas & Farfán, sp. nov. (Nymphalidae; Heliconiinae) is described, distributed on the western slopes of the Andes of Peru and northern Chile, between 800 and 3,000 m elevation. Adults of both sexes, and the immature stages, are described and illustrated based on light and scanning electron microscopy. The immature stages are associated with Malesherbia tenuifolia D. Don (Passifloraceae) found in xeric environments, representing a new record of this genus as a host plant for the subfamily Heliconiinae. Conspicuous morphological differences are presented for all stages at the generic level. Based on a phylogenetic analysis of the COI barcode mitochondrial gene fragment, D. (A.) dodona Lamas & Farfán, sp. nov. is distinguished as an independent lineage within the Agraulis clade of Dione, with ca. 5% difference to congeneric species.
["Chile"]

﻿Contribution to the knowledge of Teloganodidae (Ephemeroptera, Ephemerelloidea) of India
Two new species of Dudgeodes Sartori, 2008 and a new species of Teloganodes Eaton, 1882 are described from India; they are Dudgeodes selvakumari Martynov & Palatov, sp. nov. from Himalayan region (Uttarakhand), Dudgeodes molinerii Sivaruban, Martynov, Srinivasan, Barathy & Isack, sp. nov., and Teloganodes barathyae Sivaruban, Martynov, Srinivasan & Isack, sp. nov. from the Tamil Nadu part of the Western Ghats. Thus, for now, the Teloganodidae fauna of India includes 11 species. Dudgeodes selvakumari sp. nov. appears to be significantly extend northward the known distribution of Dudgeodes. Partial COI sequences were used as an initial clustering method to show the relationships of D. selvakumari sp. nov. with other sequenced operational taxonomic units (OTU) of the genus.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Systematic review of the firefly genus Emeia Fu, Ballantyne & Lambkin, 2012 (Coleoptera, Lampyridae) from China
The Luciolinae genus Emeia Fu, Ballantyne & Lambkin, 2012 is reviewed. Phylogenetic relationships based on cox1 DNA barcoding sequences from 42 fireflies and 2 outgroup species are reconstructed. The dataset included three main Lampyridae subfamilies: Luciolinae, Photurinae and Lampyrinae, and Emeia was recovered within Luciolinae. A new species, Emeia pulchra Zhu & Zhen sp. nov., is described from the wetland of Lishui, Zhejiang, China. Emeia pulchra is sister species to E. pseudosauteri from Sichuan, which is supported by morphological characters and a phylogeny based on DNA barcoding sequences. The two species are separated geographically as shown on the distribution map. A key to species of Emeia using males is provided.
["Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I"]
["bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿A new species of Astronotus (Teleostei, Cichlidae) from the Orinoco River and Gulf of Paria basins, northern South America
Based on morphological and molecular analysis of Astronotus species, a new species is described from the Orinoco River and Gulf of Paria basins in Venezuela and Colombia. Morphologically, it differs from Astronotus crassipinnis and Astronotus ocellatus in pre-orbital depth, caudal peduncle depth, head width, and caudal peduncle length, with significant differences in average percentage values. Osteologically, it differs from the two described species by lacking a hypurapophysis on the parahypural bone (hypural complex) and having two or three supraneural bones. Another characteristic that helps diagnose the new species is the morphology of the sagitta otolith, which is oval with crenulated dorsal and ventral margins and a rounded posterior edge. Genetically, the new species is distinct from all the other lineages previously proposed for the genus, delimited by five single locus species delimitation methods, and also has unique diagnostic nucleotides. Phylogenetic analyses support the monophyly of the new species as well as all other species/lineages. Astronotus species have considerable genetic, anatomical, and sagitta otolith shape differences, but have few significant traditional morphometric and meristic differences, because there is high variability in counts of spines, soft dorsal-fin rays, and lateral-line scales. It is clear that this new species is genetically and anatomically differentiated from all other species within the genus, and deserves recognition as a new valid species.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿Benthic megafauna of the western Clarion-Clipperton Zone, Pacific Ocean
There is a growing interest in the exploitation of deep-sea mineral deposits, particularly on the abyssal seafloor of the central Pacific Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), which is rich in polymetallic nodules. In order to effectively manage potential exploitation activities, a thorough understanding of the biodiversity, community structure, species ranges, connectivity, and ecosystem functions across a range of scales is needed. The benthic megafauna plays an important role in the functioning of deep-sea ecosystems and represents an important component of the biodiversity. While megafaunal surveys using video and still images have provided insight into CCZ biodiversity, the collection of faunal samples is needed to confirm species identifications to accurately estimate species richness and species ranges, but faunal collections are very rarely carried out. Using a Remotely Operated Vehicle, 55 specimens of benthic megafauna were collected from seamounts and abyssal plains in three Areas of Particular Environmental Interest (APEI 1, APEI 4, and APEI 7) at 3100–5100 m depth in the western CCZ. Using both morphological and molecular evidence, 48 different morphotypes belonging to five phyla were found, only nine referrable to known species, and 39 species potentially new to science. This work highlights the need for detailed taxonomic studies incorporating genetic data, not only within the CCZ, but in other bathyal, abyssal, and hadal regions, as representative genetic reference libraries that could facilitate the generation of species inventories.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿Three new species of the genus Alluaudomyia Kieffer, 1913 (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) from the National Park of Hainan Tropical Rainforest, China
Three new species of the predaceous midges of genus Alluaudomyia Kieffer, 1913: A. flavinotum Wu & Li, sp. nov. of the maculipennis group, and A. reflexuralis Wu & Li, sp. nov. and A. limu Wu & Li, sp. nov. of the parva group, are described from the National Park of Hainan Tropical Rainforest, Hainan Island, China. Illustrations and COI barcodes (a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1) of the three new species are also provided. Associations of male and female specimens of two species (A. reflexuralis Wu & Li, sp. nov. and A. limu Wu & Li, sp. nov.) are supported by DNA barcodes. The parva group is reported from China for the first time.
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

﻿Revision of two species of Sinopotamon Bott, 1967 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Potamidae) endemic to China: a new combination and a new synonym
The systematics of two problematic potamid species, Sinopotamon koatenense (Rathbun, 1904) and Sinopotamon wuyiensis Li, Lin, Cheng & Tang, 1985, both originally described from the Wuyi Mountains are resolved in this study. Sinopotamon koatenense is transferred to the genus Huananpotamon Dai & Ng, 1994, as the new combination Huananpotamon koatenense comb. nov. The new combination differs from its congeners in the form of the carapace, male pleon, male first gonopod, and vulvae. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial 16S rDNA sequences support the identification of Huananpotamon koatenense comb. nov. and a redescription is also provided. In addition, S. wuyiensis is confirmed as a junior synonym of Sinopotamon fukienense Dai & Chen, 1979 based on morphological similarities and phylogenetic lineages.

﻿New species of the genus Molanna Curtis, 1834 (Trichoptera, Molannidae) in China inferred from morphology and DNA barcodes
The male adult of Molanna truncata Ge, Peng & Sun sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on material collected in Si-chuan, China. It could be diagnosed by the subtriangular superior appendages when viewed dorsally, and by the mesal appendages each having a slender thorn and inferior appendages with a tiny inner process. Based on morphology of genitalia, we provide a dichotomous key to adult males of Molanna from the Oriental region. The DNA barcodes (partial mt COI sequences) of M. truncata sp. nov. are generated and compared with existing sequences of Molanna species from Oriental and Palearctic regions. The mean intraspecific divergence of Molanna was 1.58% with a maximum of 8.50% in M. moesta. The Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD) analysis of Molanna inferred 9 OTUs and thresholds of interspecific divergence of 10%. Divergence of M. truncata sp. nov. haplotypes from all other Molanna haplotypes ranged from 10.1% to 18%. We discuss distribution and potential groups of species within the Oriental Molanna species based on morphology.

﻿A cryptic species of the Amolops ricketti species group (Anura, Ranidae) from China–Vietnam border regions
It was supposed that the current records of Amolops ricketti might be a species complex composed of multiple species. In this study, on the basis of wide sampling, we found that the records of A. ricketti from Yunnan, China, and northern Vietnam actually represent a cryptic species based on morphological and molecular evidence. Amolops shihaitaoi sp. nov. can be distinguished from other members of the A. ricketti species group by its moderate body size (SVL 35.5‒37.3 mm in males and 39.2‒45.7 mm in females); white spines on the temporal region, loreal region, snout, and lips in breeding males but absent in females; overlapping heels; tibiotarsal articulation reaching tip of snout; indistinct longitudinal glandular folds on the skin of the shoulders; presence of supernumerary tubercles below the base of fingers II‒IV, distinct pineal body; presence of vomerine teeth; and absence of vocal sacs. Phylogenetic analysis supports that the new species is sister to Amolops yatseni and the populations from Jingxi, Guangxi and Lào Cai, Vietnam previously reported as A. yatesni also belong to it. Additionally, our results indicate that more cryptic species may exist within the A. ricketti species group, implying that more studies are needed to achieve a complete understanding of the species diversity of this group.
["Amolops shihaitaoi sp. nov."]

﻿A new provannid snail (Gastropoda, Abyssochrysoidea) discovered from Northwest Eifuku Volcano, Mariana Arc
Gastropods in the family Provannidae are characteristic members of deep-sea chemosynthesis-based communities. Recently, surveys of hydrothermal vents and hydrocarbon seeps in the western Pacific have revealed a high diversity of provannids, with new discoveries continuing to be made. Here, we report and describe a further new species, Provanna exquisita sp. nov., discovered from the Northwest Eifuku volcano on the Mariana Arc. This new species is distinguished from all other described Provanna species by its exaggerated sculpture characterised by two to three sharply raised, flange-like keels on the teleoconch whorls. The status of P. exquisita sp. nov. is also supported by a molecular phylogeny reconstruction using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, which suggested that it is most closely related to a clade of three species described from Okinawa Trough vents including P. clathrata, P. subglabra, and P. fenestrata. Despite being one of the better-explored regions of the world in terms of hydrothermal vent biodiversity, new discoveries like P. exquisita sp. nov. continue to remind us that we are nowhere near fully documenting the species diversity in these unique ecosystems—despite the species being threatened from imminent anthropogenic impacts such as deep-sea mining.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

﻿Two new species of Anacaena Thomson, 1859 (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae) from Northern Luzon, Philippines
Two species of Anacaena Thomson, 1859, A. angatbuhay sp. nov. and A. auxilium sp. nov., are described from Northern Luzon, Philippines. The new species can be distinguished through colour, body shape, surface puncturation and characteristic aedeagi. Descriptions are provided and complemented with habitus photographs and drawings of the aedeagi. Data on genus distribution in the Philippines are reviewed and an updated Philippine checklist is provided.
["Biodiversity assessment"]

﻿Revision of the endemic African genus Dinapsis (Dinapsini, Megalyridae, Hymenoptera) with description of seven new species
The endemic Afrotropical genus Dinapsis is revised, and seven new species are described and illustrated: D. bicolor van Noort & Shaw, sp. nov., D. gamka van Noort & Shaw, sp. nov., D. igneus van Noort & Shaw, sp. nov., D. spinitibia van Noort & Shaw, sp. nov., D. taita van Noort & Shaw, sp. nov., D. tricolor Shaw & van Noort, sp. nov., D. zulu Shaw & van Noort, sp. nov. The distribution of the Central African Republican species D. centralis Shaw & van Noort, 2009 is extended to include Cameroon, Kenya and Uganda. Dinapsis turneri Waterston, 1922, previously only known from the poorly preserved holotype female, is redescribed based on newly collected specimens. The distribution of this Western Cape species is extended to include the Eastern and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa. Four distinct species groups within the genus are proposed and diagnosed. An illustrated identification key to all described species of Dinapsis is provided. Online interactive Lucid keys to Afrotropical megalyrid genera and Dinapsis species are available at http://www.waspweb.org.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Notalina (Neonotalina) ﻿ralphi sp. nov. (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae), a new long-horned caddisfly from the Cerrado biome of Brazil, with new records for ﻿N. (﻿Neonotalina) ﻿brasiliana Holzenthal, 1986 and an identification key
The long-horned caddisfly genus Notalina Mosely, 1936 contains 27 species divided into two subgenera. The Neotropical N. (Neonotalina) Holzenthal, 1986 occurs exclusively in South America. Its species are organized into two species groups, brasiliana and roraima. Nine species have been recorded so far in Brazil, mainly distributed in the Cerrado and Atlantic Forest biomes of Southeast Region, and only one species has been recorded from the Central-West and Northeast Regions. In this paper a new species of N. (Neonotalina) is described and illustrated based on adult males from two protected and preserved areas in the Cerrado biome of Brazil. Notalina (Neonotalina) ralphi sp. nov. belongs to the brasiliana species group and can be recognized mainly by the morphology of the preanal appendages and segment X. New distributional records are provided for N. (Neonotalina) brasiliana Holzenthal, 1986. Additionally, a key to identify males of the ten species in the brasiliana species group is provided.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Life history and secondary production of Anomalocosmoecus illiesi Marlier, 1962 (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae) in a small stream in the northern Ecuadorian Paramo
Life history of benthic faunas of tropical high-altitude cold environments are poorly studied. Here, monthly larval and adult data are presented for Anomalocosmoecus illiesi at Saltana Stream in Ecuador. In cold conditions throughout the year (6 °C), this species showed an asynchronous and continuous production. Larval density showed two peaks in August and April. All five larval instars were present in most months. Using the size-frequency method an annual rate of secondary production per biomass of 4.8 was calculated. The measured biomass was 785 mg/m2.
["Andean Caddisflies"]

﻿A new species of Silvatares (Trichoptera, Pisuliidae) from the Democratic Republic of the Congo
A new species of caddisfly in the family Pisuliidae from the Democratic Republic of the Congo is described and illustrated herein, Silvatares holzenthali sp. nov. Based on the presence of a pair of spines on the endotheca, this species belongs to the thrymmifer group. Additionally, Silvatares laetae is recorded for the first time from the D.R. Congo.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Larval and female descriptions of Mejicanotrichia Harris & Holzenthal, 1997 (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae, Leucotrichiinae) from Mexico
Mejicanotrichia Harris & Holzenthal, 1997 is a small genus of Hydroptilidae (Trichoptera), which consists of seven species, six of them distributed in Mexico, and one more in Guatemala. Larval descriptions of only two species (M. blantoni and M. estaquillosa) were previously known, as well as only females of three species (M. blantoni, M. estaquillosa, and M. tamaza) previously described. The present study provides descriptions of the larvae of M. harrisi and M. tridentata, as well as a description of the female of M. harrisi. Identification keys for adult males, known females, and known larvae are also provided. This work aims to incorporate more information into the taxonomy of the genus, its ecology, and facilitate additional characters of potential use in future phylogenetic studies.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿After a decade, a new Venezuelan species of Corydalus Latreille (Megaloptera, Corydalidae, Corydalinae) is discovered
A new species of dobsonfly from Venezuela, Corydalus ralphi Martins, Azevêdo, Hamada & Contreras, sp. nov., was discovered a decade after the last description of a species of this genus in the country. The new species is morphologically similar to C. wanningeri Contreras-Ramos & von der Dunk, sharing a uniform reddish coloration of body and wings and similar male genitalic structures. Likewise, it shares this particular coloration with C. neblinensis Contreras-Ramos but the genitalic structure fits within the C. crossi Contreras-Ramos species group. Two specimens, one male and one female, were collected on Tarotá River, in the Gran Sabana region, Canaima National Park, in southern Venezuela. A key to identify males of the Venezuelan species of Corydalus is provided.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Aquatic beetle diversity from Volcán Tacaná, Mexico: altitudinal distribution pattern and biogeographical affinity of the fauna
Results of an aquatic beetle survey at Volcán Tacaná, Mexico, are presented with five altitudinal levels in a monthly sampling regime, aiming to estimate both diversity and altitudinal distribution patterns of the aquatic beetle fauna. The first list of aquatic beetle species from this mountain is presented, comprising 40 species in 32 genera and nine families, with four species recorded for the first time from Mexico and six recorded for the first time from Chiapas. The aquatic beetle fauna is characterized by Elmidae with 20 species, Dytiscidae with eleven species, Dryopidae with three, and Epimetopidae, Hydraenidae, Hydrophilidae, Gyrinidae, Lutrochidae, and Noteridae with one species each. The species composition through the sampled altitudinal gradient (670–1,776 m) was not homogeneous, with the elmid genera Macrelmis, Heterelmis, Microcylloepus, and Austrolimnius present at all levels, while Hexanchorus, Neoelmis, and Onychelmis were present at levels 1–3 (673–1,214 m); dytiscids were mostly present at levels 4 and 5 (1,619–1,776 m), and dryopids were present only at levels 1–3. A Parsimony Analysis of Endemicity supports a general partition between altitudinal levels 1–3 and levels 4 + 5.
["Aquatic Coleoptera"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

﻿Comparison of caddisfly (Insecta, Trichoptera) assemblages from lake and river habitats of the Huron Mountains of Michigan (USA)
The caddisfly assemblages of six lakes and 12 1st–4th order streams of the Huron Mountains of northern Upper Michigan (USA) were sampled monthly with ultraviolet lights during June-September 2019. A total of 169 species representing 63 genera and 19 families was collected, including five species not found elsewhere in Michigan and two species endemic to the state. Species assemblages between lotic and lentic habitats were distinct from each other, with 11 species indicating lakes and 23 indicating rivers. Despite the taxonomic differences, biomass of functional feeding groups (FFGs) was similar between lakes and rivers, except for higher biomass of predators in the former and higher biomass of filtering collectors in the latter. The FFG biomass of both habitat types was dominated (50–70%) by shredders. Considering the undisturbed condition of the habitats, the caddisfly assemblages and FFG biomass of the Huron Mountains can serve as regional biological monitoring reference conditions.
["Functional feeding group"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Caddisflies (Trichoptera) of Mongolia: an updated checklist with faunistic and biogeographical notes
To establish the biogeographic affinities of the caddisfly fauna of Mongolia, published records and results of our faunistic studies were analyzed. This study captured more than 47,000 adults collected from 386 locations beside lakes, ponds, streams/rivers, and springs in ten sub-basins of Mongolia using Malaise traps, aerial sweeping, and ultraviolet lights. In total, 201 species have been recorded, and approximately 269 species may occur in Mongolia according to our estimation. In a comparison of species richness for the family level, the Limnephilidae and Leptoceridae were the richest in species. The families Brachycentridae, Glossosomatidae, and Psychomyiidae had low species richness, but they included the most dominant species in terms of abundance and/or the percentage of occurrence in the samples from multiple sub-basins. Comparing the sub-basins, the Selenge had the highest Shannon diversity (H’ = 3.3) and the Gobi sub-basin had the lowest (H’ = 1.5). According to the Jaccard index of similarity, caddisfly species assemblages of Mongolia’s ten sub-basins were divided into two main groups: One group includes the Selenge, Shishkhed, Bulgan, Tes, and Depression of Great Lakes sub-basins; the other group includes the Kherlen, Onon, Khalkh Gol, Valley of Lakes, and Gobi sub-basins. The majority of Mongolian species were composed of East Palearctic taxa, with a small percentage of West Palearctic and Nearctic representatives and an even smaller percentage from the Oriental region, suggesting that the Mongolian Gobi Desert is, and has been, a significant barrier to the distribution of caddisfly species between China and Mongolia.
["East Palearctic"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Caddisflies (Trichoptera) checklist and a new species of Helicopsyche von Siebold, 1856, from the Brejo de Altitude de Triunfo, a relict rainforest within the Caatinga domain, Northeast Brazil
Brejos de Altitude are evergreen seasonal forests, associated with plateau regions in the middle of the Caatinga domain in Northeast Brazil, which possibly acted as biological corridors between the Atlantic Forest and the Amazon rainforest during the Pleistocene. The first entomological survey in the highest point in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, the Brejo de Altitude de Triunfo, was implemented and resulted in a checklist of caddisflies with six families, nine genera, and eleven species, including a new species. Helicopsyche ralphi sp. nov. is described and illustrated, based on all semaphoronts. A key to Brazilian Helicopsyche (Feropsyche) Johanson, 1998 species is also provided. In addition to the caddisfly survey in the Brejos de Altitude, the results include new records for the state, region, and also for the country. Thus, this study updates the number of species in the Brazilian Northeast region and Pernambuco state to 169 species and 43 species, respectively.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

﻿Three new species of Xiphocentron Brauer, 1870 (Trichoptera, Xiphocentronidae) from Mexico
Three new species of the genus Xiphocentron (Trichoptera, Xiphocentronidae) are described from Nearctic and Neotropical regions of Mexico. Xiphocentron (Glyphocentron) flinti sp. nov. has a very unique morphology distinguished by the presence of long spines on the preapical and apical margin of tergum X. Xiphocentron (Antillotrichia) holzenthali sp. nov. is diagnosed by tergum IX, with the apical margin bearing a narrow, rounded, mesal emargination and by a spiny projection near the basal plate. These species are the first records of the family in northwestern Mexico. Xiphocentron (Antillotrichia) pineroi sp. nov. is recognized, when observed in lateral view, by its less elongate genitalia and the sinuous mesal sclerite of the inferior appendage. Additionally, we provide detailed illustrations of Xiphocentron (Antillotrichia) rhamnes Schmid, and an updated list of the distribution of the genus Xiphocentron in Mexico.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿New species of the genus Chimarra Stephens from Africa (Trichoptera, Philopotamidae) and characterization of the African groups and subgroups of the genus
This paper is primarily based on collections in Tanzania and Ghana in 1990–1991 and 1991–1994, respectively. In all, 46 species of Chimarra were collected, 31 of them new species. All these species are illustrated or re-illustrated and described in the paper. Additionally, five species from Africa from collections in Illinois and Minnesota, four of them new, are included. This provided the incentive to review the species of Chimarra from the African subregion and assign the majority of them to species groups and subgroups. In the process, several species were synonymized. In all 147 valid species are recognized, of which 51 are treated in this paper. Two major species groups are recognized for Africa, the marginata Group and the georgensis Group. The former is based on the type species for the genus; this is the first formal characterization of this group, as distinct from other species groups in the subgenus. Mainland African species in the marginata Group mostly fall into four large species-diverse subgroups, but a number of smaller subgroups are also recognized. Membership in these subgroups is specified for the majority of African species and characters defining the subgroups informally discussed. The georgensis Group includes a single Asian species and nine previously described African species. They are assigned to two subgroups, one newly recognized in this paper. Several additional species were considered unassigned to subgroup within the georgensis Group. The majority of the new species described in this paper belong to the georgensis Group.
["Democratic Republic of the Congo"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿The Trichoptera of Panama. XIX. Additions to and a review of the genus Leucotrichia (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) in Panama
Prior to 2016, three species of caddisflies in the genus Leucotrichia (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae) were known from Panama. Subsequently, one new species and four new country records were added to Panama’s fauna. Herein, four new species are described (Leucotrichia cortadera sp. nov., L. holzenthali sp. nov., L. luma sp. nov., L. ruiteri sp. nov.) and two new country records added for Panama (L. botosaneanui Flint, 1996, L. hispida Thomson & Holzenthal, 2015). The resulting total of 14 species makes Panama the most species-rich country for this genus. Panama’s species assemblage is most similar to Costa Rica and Mexico. However, the similarities among faunas in all these countries is very low (< 35%). Thus, more new country records are possible with additional collecting. Recent collections (2015–2021) of new caddisfly species and country records in this genus were effected primarily by use of Malaise traps. Our collections also evidenced multiple species from the same collecting site, with seven species each found in both lowland and mid-altitude sites. Investigation of the distribution of Leucotrichia species with altitude reveals a preference by several species for higher altitude locations. Additional Malaise trap collections over extended time periods are needed to verify the validity of all observations and preliminary conclusions made to date.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

﻿Description of Alvania wangi Xu, Qi & Kong, sp. nov. (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Littorinimorpha, Rissoidae) from the East China Sea
Alvania wangi Xu, Qi & Kong, sp. nov. (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Littorinimorpha, Rissoidae) was discovered within the intertidal zone in the Nanji Islands and Zhoushan Islands, Zhejiang Province, China. It has a radula characteristic of Alvania Risso, 1826, a protoconch sculptured with micro pits and lamellae between spiral lirae, and a teleoconch with growth lines and subobsolete cords. Specimens were examined using an integrative taxonomic approach incorporating morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses of concatenated mitochondrial 16S rRNA and nuclear 28S rRNA gene sequences. The findings suggest that the new species is sister to Alvania circinata A. Adams, 1861 and is probably endemic to the shallow waters of the East China Sea.
["Micromolluscs"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

﻿Three new genera and one new species of leaf insect from Melanesia (Phasmatodea, Phylliidae)
With the first large-scale Phylliidae molecular phylogeny recently published adding a great deal of clarity to phylliid diversity, several of the rarer species which could not be included were methodically and morphologically reviewed. This review resulted in identification of numerous substantial morphological features that suggest there are Melanesian clades that create polyphyletic groups within the phylliids which should instead be taxonomically recognized as unique. These rarer Melanesia species have historically been considered to be southern representatives of the Pulchriphyllium Griffini, 1898 sensu lato. However, there are notable morphological differences between the Pulchriphyllium sensu stricto and the “schultzei” group. Therefore, two new genera are erected, Vaabonbonphyllium gen. nov. from the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea and Rakaphyllium gen. nov. from New Guinea and the Aru Islands. Erection of these two new genera warrants the following new combinations: Rakaphyllium schultzei (Giglio-Tos, 1912), comb. nov., Rakaphyllium exsectum (Zompro, 2001b), comb. nov., and Vaabonbonphyllium groesseri (Zompro, 1998), comb. nov. Additionally, while reviewing material an undescribed Vaabonbonphyllium gen. nov. specimen was located and is herein described as Vaabonbonphyllium rafidahae gen. et sp. nov. from Mt. Hagen, Papua New Guinea. Additionally, a morphologically unique clade of several species recovered as sister to the Nanophyllium sensu stricto was recognized and their numerous unique morphological features and monophyly leads the authors to erect the new genus Acentetaphyllium gen. nov. which warrants the following new combinations: Acentetaphyllium brevipenne (Größer, 1992), comb. nov., Acentetaphyllium larssoni (Cumming, 2017), comb. nov., Acentetaphyllium miyashitai (Cumming et al. 2020), comb. nov., and Acentetaphyllium stellae (Cumming, 2016), comb. nov. With the addition of several new genera, a key to phylliid genera is included for adult males and females.
["Aru Islands"]

﻿The complete mitogenome of the potentially invasive flatworm Australopacifica atrata (Platyhelminthes, Geoplanidae) displays unusual features common to other Rhynchodeminae
We sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of the flatworm Australopacifica atrata. The species, originally described from New South Wales, Australia, has been found in various locations in the British Isles, New Zealand and in the United States of America; it is thus potentially invasive. The genome is 16513 bp long, encodes for 12 protein coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes and 20 tRNA genes, and is completely colinear with the other two available Rhynchodeminae. In addition, it shares with them some unusual characters discriminating them from members of the other subfamilies of Geoplanidae, the most noticeable being the extra length of its cox2 gene. The data allow a reliable multigene phylogeny to be derived, and also provide a means of accurate biomonitoring of possible invasiveness by A. atrata.
["Biomonitoring"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿Biodiversity of Nearctic inland water: discovery of the genus Heterorotula (Porifera, Spongillida, Spongillidae) in the Appalachian Mountains, with biogeographical implications and description of new species
This paper reports the discovery of a small population of sponges in the Pigeon River of eastern Tennessee, USA, which were morphologically distinct from Spongillida of North America. A morphological comparative analysis resulted in the first Nearctic record of the genus Heterorotula with the description of a new species Heterorotula lucasi sp. nov. diverging from all other known species by its unique combinations of diagnostic morphotraits of spicules and gemmules. The new record enlarges the geographic range of the genus which has been known until now only from Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Japan (as an alien species), and from subequatorial Brazil (as subfossil remains). The discovery of a biogeographic enclave of Heterorotula in the southeastern United States contributes to the understanding of Porifera inland water biodiversity, biogeographic patterns, and adaptive morphotraits in the Nearctic and globally. Data confirm that the Appalachian region (Ordovician–Permian origin) of Tennessee and, in general, of North America have high levels of diversity and endemicity.
["Aquatic biodiversity"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

﻿Revision of the carnivorous land snail family Streptaxidae (Stylommatophora, Achatinina) in Myanmar, with description of four new species
The carnivorous terrestrial snail family Streptaxidae, recognized by having a regular to eccentric shell with complex apertural dentition, remains little-known and largely unexplored in Myanmar. This article presents historically recorded species and provides new data on this family. A total of eighteen species in five genera, namely Carinartemis, Discartemon, Haploptychius, Oophana, and Perrottetia from the southeastern and eastern parts of Myanmar, is examined herein. Among these, Haploptychius is the most diverse with eight species, while the remaining genera are comprised of fewer than five species each. Streptaxis birmanica and Streptaxis blanfordianus are herein synonymized with Haploptychius blanfordi, while Streptaxis hanleyanus is synonymized with Carinartemis sankeyi. Furthermore, the first genitalia and radula descriptions for three previously known species, D. tonywhitteni, C. exacutus, and C. sankeyi, are provided. Using comparative morphological and anatomical approaches, four new species are described: D. paurodeviatus sp. nov., H. heliakosus sp. nov., H. tenasserimicus sp. nov., and H. karenorum sp. nov. This present study enhances the understanding of the land snail fauna in Myanmar, specifically the streptaxids, and highlights that limestone areas are important for biodiversity conservation.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

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

﻿The complete mitochondrial genome of Meloe proscarabaeus (Coleoptera, Meloidae): genome descriptions and phylogenetic inferences
Oil beetles are meloids, which are characterised for their cleptoparasitic habits in bee nests and oily fluid of cantharidin that causes blistering and swelling of the skin. The complete mitochondrial genome of Meloe proscarabaeus is determined using the next-generation sequencing technology and its genomic characteristics are described. The 15,653-bp long genome is a circular molecule consisting of 13 protein-coding genes (PCG), 22 transport RNA, two ribosomal RNA, and a control region. The A + T bias of the mitochondrial genome is manifested in the complete sequence and the codon usage of protein-coding genes. The genetic distance within and between genera is calculated to confirm the taxonomic status of M. proscarabaeus. The phylogenetic relationships among 15 available meloid taxa are inferred by the maximum likelihood (ML) method based on 13 mitochondrial PCGs. The ML trees resulting from nucleotide and amino acid datasets recover both the monophyly of Meloe and Epicauta and the polyphyly comprising Hycleus and Mylabris. This study provides the first description of a mitochondrial genome belonging to the genus Meloe. The mitochondrial genome sequence and its characteristics are expected to be conducive to future studies on taxonomy, systematics, and molecular phylogenetics of the family Meloidae.
["Genome feature"]
["Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿Revision of the water scavenger beetle genus Notionotus Spangler, 1972 in the Neotropical Region (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Enochrinae)
The Neotropical species of the water scavenger beetle genus Notionotus Spangler, 1972 are revised using an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphology with DNA sequence data from two genes. Support exists for four putative species groups into which 18 species are placed, including twelve that are described here as new: N. bicolor sp. nov. (Suriname), N. bifidus sp. nov. (Venezuela), N. brunbadius sp. nov. (Brazil), N. garciae sp. nov. (Brazil), N. giraldoi sp. nov. (Brazil), N. insignitus sp. nov. (Venezuela), N. juma sp. nov. (Brazil), N. parvus sp. nov. (Suriname), N. patamona sp. nov. (Guyana), N. peruensis sp. nov. (Peru), N. retusus sp. nov. (Guyana), and N. vatius sp. nov. (Brazil). Four new synonymies are created: N. shorti Queney syn. nov. is found to be conspecific with N. dilucidus Queney; N. edibethae García syn. nov., N. nucleus Perkins syn. nov., and N. perijanus García syn. nov. are found to be conspecific with N. tricarinatus Perkins. New records are provided for all previously described species except N. mexicanus Perkins. Within the Neotropical region, the range of the genus is greatly expanded and now known from as far south as Bolivia and the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul. While a few species are found in hygropetric habitats, most are associated with the margins of forested streams. Genitalia and habitus images are provided for nearly all species, as well as a key to the four species groups.
["aquatic insects"]

﻿Two new species and a new genus of ray spiders (Araneae, Theridiosomatidae) from the Ryukyu Islands, southwest Japan, with notes on their natural history
This paper provides descriptions of two new theridiosomatid species, Theridiosoma nigrivirgatum sp. nov. and Sennin tanikawai gen. nov., sp. nov. from the Ryukyu Islands, southwest Japan, with photographs and illustrations of both sexes. Sennin gen. nov. is a troglophilic genus composed of two species, S. tanikawai sp. nov. (Iriomote Island, Japan) and S. coddingtoni (Zhu, Zhang & Chen, 2001), comb. nov. (southern China). Zoma dibaiyin Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009, which recently joined the Japanese fauna, was morphologically reexamined based on specimens from the Ryukyus, and taxonomic features of Zoma males were reassessed. A distributional map of theridiosomatid spiders in the Ryukyus is also provided, including T. dissimulatum Suzuki, Serita & Hiramatsu, 2020, and T. alboannulatum Suzuki, Serita & Hiramatsu, 2020 with their habitat types, web morphology, and web-building behavior in detail.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿A new systematic arrangement for the blister beetle genus Eurymeloe (Meloini, Meloidae, Coleoptera) with the description of a new species from Spain
The taxonomic status and subgeneric arrangement of the genus Eurymeloe have been debated for decades. In this work, the internal taxonomy of Eurymeloe is redefined by recognising three subgenera: Eurymeloe for the former Eurymeloe brevicollis species group, Coelomeloe for Eurymeloe tuccia, and Bolognaia Ruiz, García-París, Sánchez-Vialas & Recuero, subgen. nov., to accommodate the species of the formerly recognised Eurymeloe rugosus species group. Additionally, a new species of the newly described subgenus Bolognaia is described from the Iberian Peninsula based on molecular and morphological traits. The new species, Eurymeloe (Bolognaia) orobates sp. nov., can be distinguished from all other species of Eurymeloe by the following combination of morphological traits: dispersed brownish setae over the body that are arranged in small tufts on the abdominal terga; a small, very transverse pronotum that presents a unique macrosculpture; a deeply and densely punctured integument of the head and pronotum; and the very rugose elytra. The characters displayed by E. orobates suggest that the species groups that were previously defined and recognised for Eurymeloe, and that are now integrated within the newly erected subgenus Bolognaia, are non-monophyletic.
["Bolognaia subgen. nov."]
["Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿Ground spiders (Araneae, Gnaphosidae) from Jiangxi Province, China
A list of 26 gnaphosid species belonging to 14 genera collected in Jiangxi Province, China, is provided. Three new species of ground spiders from Jiangxi Province of China are diagnosed, described, and illustrated: Haplodrassus yinae Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), Hitobia xiaoxi Liu, sp. nov. (♂), and Zelotes dingnan Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀). Haplodrassus yinae Liu, sp. nov. was previously erroneously recorded in Jiangxi Province as H. montanus Yin et al., 2012.

﻿Two new cave Hyleoglomeris species (Glomerida, Glomeridae) from northern Vietnam
Two new glomerid species from caves in Cao Bang Province, Northern Vietnam, namely, Hyleoglomeris halang Kuroda, Nguyen & Eguchi, sp. nov. and Hyleoglomeris alba Nguyen, Kuroda & Eguchi, sp. nov., are described. The former is characterized by a distinct body color pattern; telopods with a large, quadrate, medially concave, sparsely setose, central syncoxital lobe; and syncoxital horns approximately 1.5–2.0 times as long as the lobe. The latter is distinguished by its completely troglobiotic form without eyes, an unpigmented body, and a roundly triangular syncoxital lobe of telopods. An identification key is also provided for the cave glomerids of Vietnam.

﻿Revision of the javanicus species group of the millipede genus Glyphiulus Gervais, 1847, with descriptions of five new species from China (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Cambalopsidae)
The javanicus-group of Glyphiulus is re-assessed and its Chinese component species are presently divided between the following two newly-circumscribed species groups, i.e. the formosus- and the sinensis-group. The two can be differentiated, based on the diagnostic characters of the first pair of legs in the male. In addition, metatergal crests being complete and the carinotaxy formula on the collum being I–III+P+M are only characteristic of the formosus-group. A molecular phylogeny of the genus, based on DNA sequencing of four gene fragments of four genes, allows for Glyphiulus to be recovered as a monophyletic group, the phylogenetic relationship being ((Clade A, Clade B), Clade C). Molecular evidence is fully congruent with the morphological one. In addition, based on barcoding data, interspecific p-distances between Glyphiulus species amount to 11.2–24.9%, vs. 0–8.2% for intraspecific p-distances. Five new species of Glyphiulus, all cavernicolous, are described from China: G. sinuatoprocessus Zhao & Liu, sp. nov., G. conuliformis Zhao & Liu, sp. nov. (both from Guangdong Province), G. xiniudong Zhao & Liu, sp. nov., G. scutatus Zhao & Liu, sp. nov. and G. portaliformis Zhao & Liu, sp. nov. (all three from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region). The known Chinese species of the formosus-group appear to mainly be confined to the South China region.

﻿Description of a new Kurixalus species (Rhacophoridae, Anura) and a northwards range extension of the genus
Knowledge of biodiversity before species become extinct is paramount to conservation, especially when the relevant species are far from their expected distribution and, thus, likely overlooked. Here, we describe a new Kurixalus species corresponding to a range extension of Kurixalus on the Asian mainland, with the closest population in Taiwan. The species diverged from its closest relative during the Late Pliocene to Pleistocene, ca. 3.06 Mya (HPD 95%: 5.82-0.01), based on calibrations with a relaxed clock species tree of unlinked mtDNA 12S rRNA and nuclear DNA TYR. The status of the newly-described species is also supported by a divergence in call properties and morphometrics. We named the species described here as Kurixalus inexpectatus sp. nov. due to the nature of the discovery, as well as the adjunct distribution of the species relative to its closest congeners. The species was found in Zhejiang Province and it represents a range extension of 663 km for the Kurixalus genus.
["Bush frog"]

﻿Replacement name for a Panamic bivalve (Mollusca, Bivalvia, Cyrenidae)
["Cyrena"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿A new species of Metopiellus (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from the northern Colombian Amazon
The genus Metopiellus (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) is confirmed in Colombia with the description of Metopiellus guanano sp. nov. from the northern Amazon. Major diagnostic characters, a distributional map, and ecological data are given. Finally, a previous taxonomic key to Metopiellus is updated to include the new species.
["Colombian Amazon"]

﻿The Coleoptera of the Province of Prince Edward Island, Canada: 295 new records from Lindgren funnel traps and a checklist to species
The Coleoptera fauna of the province of Prince Edward Island has long been one of the most poorly known jurisdictions in Canada, with fewer than half the number of species recorded in the neighbouring provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. If much of the difference in species richness was due to less intensive sampling of the province compared to other parts of Atlantic Canada it was predicted that surveys with semiochemical-baited traps would detect many previously undetected species. Lindgren funnel traps were baited with longhorn beetle pheromones and host volatiles and placed in the canopy and understory of coniferous and deciduous trees at the Valleyfield, New Harmony, Auburn, and Brookvale Demonstration Woodlots during the summers of 2018 and 2019. Two hundred and ninety-five species of Coleoptera are newly recorded from Prince Edward Island from 53 families. One of these, the Palaearctic Pityophagus ferrugineus (Linnaeus, 1760) is reported for the first time from North America and Canada. The families Lycidae, Derodontidae, Lymexylidae, Sphindidae, Cucujidae, Ripiphoridae, Salpingidae, and Nemonychidae are newly recorded for the province. A checklist of the Coleoptera of Prince Edward Island is provided.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Taxonomic reassessment of chaetognaths (Chaetognatha, Sagittoidea, Aphragmophora) from Korean waters
Since the first record of chaetognaths (arrow worms) reported from Korean waters by Molchanov in 1907, three families, 12 genera and 21 species have been additionally described. Eighteen of the 21 recorded species have been reported under scientific names different from the latest taxonomic system. This study aimed to address this issue by conducting a taxonomic re-evaluation of chaetognaths collected from Korean waters. Furthermore, the taxonomic usefulness of morphological differences in corona ciliata and distribution of ciliary sense receptors were re-examined using specimens stained with 1% Chlorazol black E (CBE) solution. This study includes taxonomically-validated voucher specimens of 18 species from Korean waters. Based on the specimens, re-description including image data and CBE staining pattern, distribution, ecological information and improved key were provided for each species. However, Decipisagitta decipiens, Serratosagitta serratodentata and Sagitta pseudoserratodentata from Korean waters is still questioned because of the paucity of the voucher specimen and scientific literature.
["Arrow worms"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

﻿A new octocoral species of Swiftia (Holaxonia, Plexauridae) from the upper bathyal off Mauritania (NE Atlantic)
Three species of the genus Swiftia are known for the NE Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Remotely-operated vehicle (ROV) surveys and sampling on board RV Maria S. Merian during cruise MSM 16/3 ‘PHAETON’ in 2010 provided footage and specimens of octocorals off Mauritania. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) reveals, for the first time in taxonomy of octocorals, the three-dimensional arrangement of the sclerites in a polyp. Swiftia phaeton sp. nov. is described for the continental slope off Mauritania. This azooxanthellate octocoral is distinctive from NE Atlantic and Mediterranean congenerics by the dark red colour of the colonies (including the polyps), the presence of a layer of rod sclerites on top of the polyp mounds, and different sizes of polyps and sclerites. Using micro-CT has allowed the observation and imaging of a layer of sclerites that is distinct from other species of the same genus. ROV images revealed live records of S. phaeton sp. nov. in submarine canyons and on cold-water coral mounds in the upper-bathyal off Mauritania (396–639 m depth), mainly attached to dead coral, coral rubble, or rocks. The new species represents an extension of the genus distribution to the tropical latitudes (17°07'N and 20°14'N) of the NE Atlantic Ocean.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine animal studies overview"]

﻿Redescription of Apocorophium acutum (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Corophiidae) with material from type locality and key of world Apocorophium species
Apocorophium acutum (Chevreux, 1908), the type species of the genus, was originally but only partially described by Chevreux with female specimens from Bônes (Algeria); male specimens were later described from Brittany (France). Since then, the species has been recorded in different places of the world, some of them questionable. Herein, the species is entirely redescribed with material from the type locality and Brittany, and additional material from Arcachon Bay is studied to provide biological data. The known geographical distribution of this species is summarized, and a world identification key of Apocorophium species is also given.
["Corophiini"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

﻿Six new species of Aspidophorodon Verma, 1967 (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Aphidinae) from China
The genus Aspidophorodon Verma is presented including six new species from China namely Aspidophorodon capitatum Qiao & Xu, sp. nov. Aspidophorodon longicornutum Qiao & Xu, sp. nov. Aspidophorodon reticulatum Qiao & Xu, sp. nov. Aspidophorodon furcatum Qiao & Xu, sp. nov. Aspidophorodon longirostre Qiao & Xu, sp. nov. and Aspidophorodon obtusirostre Qiao & Xu, sp. nov. Aspidophorodon cornuatum Qiao 2015, is considered as a junior synonym of Aspidophorodon longituberculatum (Zhang Zhong & Zhang 1992), syn. nov. Two species Aspidophorodon harvense Verma and Aspidophorodon indicum (David Rajasingh & Narayanan) are recorded for the first time in China. The genus is mainly distributed in East Asia and is represented by 15 species in the world of which 12 are found in China. Keys to the species of Aspidophorodon are given.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Hexatoma crane flies (Diptera, Limoniidae) of Korea
Hexatoma Latreille, 1809 is a large genus of short-palped crane flies with a worldwide distribution. Accounting for more than 60 percent of global species, 362 extant species occur in Asia. Prior to our study, Hexatoma crane flies on the Korean Peninsula (both the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea) had been studied for 90 years starting in 1930, but only three species had been recorded, with one of them being a misidentification. This study adds six species to the fauna of the Korean Peninsula, all of which belong to the subgenus H. (Eriocera) Macquart, 1838. General information on genus and subgenus morphological characters is presented in this paper, with a redescription of each species based on Korean specimens, as well as illustrations of both sexes, the elevation range, the period of activity, habitat information, general distribution, and a distribution map for the Korean Peninsula. Three species H. (E.) ilwola Podenas, sp. nov., H. (E.) pianigra Podenas, sp. nov. and H. (E.) serenensis Podenas, sp. nov. are described as new to science. Hexatoma (E.) lygropis (Alexander, 1920) is deleted from the Korean species list as a misidentification. This publication is a continuation of our previous work on short-palped crane flies (Limoniidae) from Korea.
["East Palaearctic"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

﻿Catalogue of primary types of Neotropical Myotis (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae)
Myotis comprises a diverse group of vespertilionid bats with worldwide distribution. Neotropical Myotis have an accentuated phenotypic conservatism, which makes species delimitation and identification difficult, hindering our understanding of the diversity, distribution, and phylogenetic relationships of taxa. To encourage new systematic reviews of the genus, a catalogue of the primary types and names is presented, current and in synonymy, for Neotropical Myotis. Currently 33 valid species (and three subspecies) are recognized, and their primary types are deposited in 12 scientific collections in the USA (30 types), Brazil (two types), England (two types), and France (one type). The names of 29 Neotropical Myotis species currently in synonymy were found. However, it is possible that some synonyms represent independent evolutionary lineages, considering recent results provided by taxonomic revisions.
["Myotinae"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

﻿A critical review of the distribution of the endangered European earth-borer beetle Bolbelasmus unicornis (Coleoptera, Geotrupidae), with new records from 13 countries and observations on its bionomy
The distribution of Bolbelasmus unicornis (Schrank, 1789) is critically reviewed throughout its range with emphasis on the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The species has been reliably recorded from 377 localities in 19 countries. New records are given from 152 localities of Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Turkey, and Ukraine. For Germany, the species is recorded for the first time in 54 years. The occurrence of the species in Switzerland is confirmed by two historical specimens from Zürich. The only known historical specimen labelled “Kaukasus” is given, which could originate from Russia, where this species has not been recorded before (however, confusion of the locality label cannot be ruled out). All published faunistic data from across the range are presented here in full, in several cases supplemented by details subsequently obtained by the author. Distribution maps are compiled separately for the Czech Republic and Slovakia, and for the entire range. A separate map is also available for Hungary, where approximately one-third of the known localities are located. Statistical data concerning the flight activity of adults, seasonal dynamics for part of the distribution area, details of records and notes on the bionomy and ethology of the species are provided. Possible feeding strategies for adults and larvae of B. unicornis are discussed, as well as current knowledge of the natural history of various representatives of the subfamily Bolboceratinae. A monitoring method for the species is proposed.
["Asia Minor"]

﻿Panstrongylus noireaui, a remarkable new species of Triatominae (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) from Bolivia
Panstrongylus noireaui sp. nov. from Bolivia is described based on male and female specimens. Although morphologically almost indistinguishable from Panstrongylus rufotuberculatus (Champion, 1899), the new species shows remarkable chromosome and molecular features, which are very distinctive among all others Panstrongylus species. The new species is also separated by some characteristics of the processes of the endosoma of the male genitalia. An updated key for species of Panstrongylus is provided.
["Chagas disease vectors"]
["Trypanosoma species research and implications", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

﻿Caridina stellata, a new species of atyid shrimp (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae) with the male description of Caridina cavernicola Liang & Zhou, 1993 from Guangxi, China
Caridina stellata sp. nov. is described from streams in Guangxi, south-western China. The new species clearly belongs to “Caridina serrata group” of the genus and shows a morphological similarity with C. cantonensis Yu, 1938, C. serrata Stimpson, 1860 and C. pacbo Do et al. 2020. Caridina stellata is distinguished from congeners, based on differences in its male first pleopod and appendix masculina morphology, along with COI and 16S rRNA molecular evidence. The first pleopod endopod in male is rectangle, about 0.70 × length of exopod, about 3.7–3.9 × as long as proximally wide, inner margin concave, bearing nearly equal spine setae, outer margin bearing nearly equal long and dense spine setae; appendix interna well developed, arising from distal 1/5 of endopod, reaching to end of endopod, with cincinuli distally. The new species displays a unique and brightly coloured pattern and, therefore, can be easily recognised in the field. Liang & Zhou, 1993 described C. cavernicola from the Lenggu Cave, Du’an County, Guangxi. However, the description was based exclusively on two females. We have collected specimens of both sexes near the type locality and describe herein the previously unknown male and present morphological data on females. Data on the habitat, ecology and levels of threat of the two species are provided and suggest that they should be categorised as vulnerable (VU) under the current IUCN Criteria.
["COI and 16S rRNA"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

﻿A new species of Chryxus Champion, with taxonomic notes on other species of the genus (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Reduviidae, Chryxinae)
Chryxus garcetebarretti sp. nov. from Paraguay is described, taxonomical notes on C. bahianus Gil-Santana, Costa & Marques, 2007 and C. tomentosus Champion, 1899 are provided; the latter species is recorded from French Guiana for the first time; a redescription of the genus Chryxus Champion, 1899 and an updated key for the genera and species of Chryxinae are presented.
["Assassin bugs"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

﻿Three new species of the spider genus Liphistius (Araneae, Mesothelae, Liphistiidae) from Thailand
We diagnose and describe three new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Liphistius from Thailand, based on male palp and female genital morphology: L. hatyai Zhan & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀), L. keeratikiati Zhan & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀), and L. inthanon Zhan & Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀). The classification of the three new species of Liphistius is discussed: L. hatyai sp. nov. and L. keeratikiati sp. nov. are assigned to the trang-group, and L. inthanon sp. nov. is placed in the bristowei-group according to male palp and female genital morphology.

﻿Taxonomic study on the genus Stenochironomus Kieffer from the Baishanzu Nature Reserve, China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
During the summer of July to September 2020, a biodiversity survey on Chironomidae of Baishanzu Nature Reserve, China was made. In total, five Stenochironomus taxa/species were discovered, of which two belong to undescribed species and one (S. okialbus Sasa, 1990) is reported for the first time from China. The male adults of two new species are described and illustrated. Stenochironomus annulus Song & Qi sp. nov. is distinguished in having a wing with two dark spots restricted to the fork area of FCu and RM, the mid- and hind-femur each with a brown annulus, and the inferior volsella with two setae and one strong terminal spine. Stenochironomus baishanzuensis Song & Qi sp. nov. is distinguished by a combination of characters: a single dark spot on the middle part of the wing, fore legs brown to dark brown except for the basal 3/4 of femur, and the inferior volsella with four long setae and one stout terminal spine. The neighbour-joining tree based on public COI barcodes formed distinct clades with clear support for the new species. An updated key to known male adults of Stenochironomus from China is also provided.
["Chironominae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿On the verge of extinction – revision of a highly endangered Swiss alpine snail with description of a new genus, Raeticella gen. nov. (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Hygromiidae)
The phylogenetic status of the alpine land snail Fruticicola biconica has remained questionable since it was described by Eder in 1917. Considered a microendemic species from mountain tops in Central Switzerland, the shell is specially adapted for life under stones. Herein, we show via molecular and anatomical investigations that F. biconica neither belongs to the land snail genus Trochulus, nor to any other genus within Trochulini, but rather warrants placement within the newly established genus Raeticella Kneubühler, Baggenstos & Neubert, 2022. Phylogenetic analyses reveal that R. biconica is clearly separated from Trochulus. These findings are supported by morphological investigations of the shell and genitalia.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Life cycle and description of the immature stages of a terrestrial firefly endemic to Mexico: Photinus extensus Gorham (Coleoptera, Lampyridae)
The life cycle, morphology, and bionomy of Photinus extensus Gorham, 1881, an endemic species of Mexico, are described. Redescriptions of adults (male and female) are also presented. Larvae were reared to the adult stage from eggs laid by females collected at the El Pedregal de San Ángel Ecological Reserve, south of Mexico City. The activity period of adults of P. extensus begins at the end of July and finishes by the end of August. Females lay between 3 and 198 eggs. Larvae hatch from the eggs after a period of 11 to 71 days, undergo 6 larval instars and a pupal stage in an annual cycle. Morphological characters of the sixth larval instar of P. extensus are compared with those of several other genera assigned to the tribe Photinini. Knowledge of the natural history of firefly larvae is relevant since most species do not feed as adults and therefore depend on resources acquired during the larval stage.
["Bionomics"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

﻿An unexpected new red-bellied Stumpffia (Microhylidae) from forest fragments in central Madagascar highlights remaining cryptic diversity
The Madagascan endemic subfamily Cophylinae in the family Microhylidae, is an example of a taxonomic group for which much is still to be discovered. Indeed, the cophyline frogs present a large portion of Madagascar’s cryptic and microendemic amphibian diversity, yet they remain understudied. A new red-bellied species of the microhylid frog genus Stumpffia is described from the central plateau of Madagascar. Visual encounter surveys in Ambohitantely and Anjozorobe in 2019 and 2020 identified this previously unknown Stumpffia species, which closely resembles Stumpffia kibomena known from Andasibe in the east. Stumpffia lynnae sp. nov. adds another species to the red-bellied species complex, differing from S. kibomena by genetic differentiation in the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene (3.6–3.9%) and distinct nuclear RAG1 haplotypes, as well as strongly by its advertisement call. The new species is known from across Ambohitantely Special Reserve and Anjozorobe Angavo protected area, but is known only from one complete specimen and eight individual tissue samples. Based on the rarity of the species, the small number of locations in which it has been found, and its disappearing forest habitat, its IUCN Red List classification is suggested as “Endangered”. This species is the first Stumpffia described from Madagascar’s central plateau, highlighting the importance of conserving the remnant forest fragments in this area and the ongoing need to survey and protect this threatened habitat type.
["Amphibian"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿Cave-inhabiting Cheliferidae (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpiones) from Thailand, with description of four new species of Metachelifer Redikorzev
Four new species of the genus Metachelifer Redikorzev, 1938 are described from caves in the provinces of Tak (M. takensis sp. nov. and M. thailandicus sp. nov.), Chiangmai (M. mahnerti sp. nov.), and Nakhon Ratchasima (M. cheni sp. nov.). An identification key is provided to all known world representatives of the genus Metachelifer.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

﻿A new species in the Cyrtodactylus oldhami group (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Kanchanaburi Province, western Thailand
Cyrtodactylus monilatus sp. nov. is described from Si Sawat District, Kanchanaburi Province, in western Thailand. The new species superficially resembles C. zebraicus Taylor, 1962 from southern Thailand. However, differences between the new species from C. zebraicus and other congeners were supported by an integrative taxonomic analysis of molecular and morphological data. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene showed that the new species is a member of the C. oldhami group and closely related to Cyrtodactylus sp. MT468911 from Thong Pha Phum National Park, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi Province. Uncorrected pairwise genetic divergences (p-distances) between the new species and its congeners, including C. zebraicus, ranged from 7.7–17.7%. Cyrtodactylus monilatus sp. nov. can also be distinguished from all members of the C. oldhami group by having a unique combination of morphological characters, including a snout to vent length of 53.7–63.3 mm in adult males and 58.6–75.8 mm in adult females; 22–34 paravertebral tubercles; 34–42 ventral scales; 30–39 enlarged contiguous femoroprecloacal scales; femoral pores and precloacal pores absent in both sexes; four or five rows of postprecloacal scales; enlarged median subcaudal scales absent; weak ventrolateral folds present; 4–7 rows of paired, paravertebral, dark-brown blotches edged in yellow or yellowish white; and two rows of small, diffuse, yellow or yellowish white spots on flanks. The new species occurs in a narrow range of forest at mid to low elevations associated with karst landscapes in the Tenasserim mountain range.
["Cyrtodactylus monilatus sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Novel in situ observations of asexual reproduction in the carpet sea anemone, Stichodactyla mertensii (Stichodactylidae, Actiniaria)
Merten’s carpet sea anemone, Stichodactyla mertensii Brandt, 1835, is the largest known sea anemone species in the world, regularly exceeding one meter in oral disc diameter. A tropical species from the Indo-Pacific, S. mertensii drapes prominently over coral reef substrates and is a common host to numerous species of clownfishes and other symbionts throughout its range, which extends from the Red Sea through the Central Pacific Ocean. Long thought to reproduce via sexual reproduction only, recent genetic evidence suggests it may rarely reproduce asexually as well, although this process had never been confirmed through direct observation and the mechanism was yet to be described. Here, we directly observed and documented in situ asexual fragmentation via budding, in real time, by a Red Sea S. mertensii in a turbid inshore reef environment. While asexual reproduction is not unusual in sea anemones as a group, it is typically expected to be uncommon for large-bodied species. Herein, we describe S. mertensii fragmentation, provide high resolution images of the event from the Saudi Arabian coastline at multiple time points, and confirm asexual reproduction for this species.
["Actinians"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿A new species of Notacanthella Jacobus & McCafferty, 2008 (Ephemeroptera, Ephemerellidae) from Yunnan, China
Notacanthella jinwu Li & Jacobus, sp. nov. is described based on egg, nymph, and winged stages from Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. The nymph of the new species is closely related to N. commodema (Allen, 1971), whose nymphs share a similar tuberculation of head, pronotum, and mesonotum. However, the nymph of our new species can be distinguished based on the structures of male sternum IX and abdominal tergal tubercles. In addition, the new species is distributed in subtropical high-altitude areas. The description of the male imago of the new species is the first certain one for the genus Notacanthella. Data associated with our new species allow for expanded discussion and diagnosis of Notacanthella and closely related genera. An identification key for nymphs of these groups is provided.
["Cangshan Mountain"]

﻿Comparative morphology of part of the integumental fine structure of two Erythroneurine species: Singapora shinshana (Matsumura, 1932) and Empoascanara sipra Dworakowska, 1980 (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae)
This study describes the fine structure of the mouthparts, antennae, forewings, and brochosomes of two leafhopper species belonging to the typhlocybine tribe Erythroneurini collected from the Karst area of Guizhou Province, southern China: Singapora shinshana, which prefers woody dicot hosts, and Empoascanara sipra, which feeds on grasses. As in other leafhoppers, the piercing-sucking mouthparts consist of a conical labrum, a cylindrical three-segmented labium, and a slender stylet fascicle. The labrum of both species has no sensilla and the labium has several common types of sensilla, but the two species differ in the numbers, types, and distribution of sensilla and in other aspects of the surface sculpture of the mouthparts. The stylet fascicle has distinctive dentition on both the maxillary and mandibular stylets. The antennae of the two species differ in several respects, including the sensilla and sculpture of the scape, pedicel, and flagellum, as well as the degree of sub-segmentation of the flagellum. Except for the variable scaly structure and rounded protrusions on the surface of S. shinshana, the fine structure of the forewing surfaces of the two species are similar to those of other leafhoppers. Only small spherical brochosomes were found on the body surface of S. shinshana and E. sipra. Similar studies of additional erythroneurine species are needed to determine whether differences in mouthpart and antennal fine structure may reflect adaptation to different host plant.
["Antennae"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Plant Pathogenic Bacteria Studies"]

﻿First occurrence of the little-known genus Noteriades (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae) from Vietnam: discovery of a new species and a key to the Southeast Asian fauna
The little-known megachiline genus Noteriades Cockerell, 1931 is recorded from Vietnam for the first time. A new species, Noteriades hangkia Tran, Engel & Nguyen sp. nov. is described and figured based on a series of females collected from the provinces of the northern and central highlands of Vietnam. The genus is briefly discussed and a new subtribe is established, Noteriadina Engel, Tran & Nguyen subtrib. nov. of Megachilini. Lastly, an identification key and distribution map are provided for those species occurring in Southeast Asia.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿A new species of Arrhopalites Börner (Collembola, Symphypleona, Arrhopalitidae) from China, with a key to the Asian species of the caecus group
The second species of Arrhopalites from China is described and illustrated and an identification key to the Asian species of the caecus group is presented. Arrhopalites brevicornis sp. nov. is the eleventh species of the caecus group recorded in Asia and it can be clearly differentiated by the unguiculus III with 2 internal teeth (0–1 in all other species). Also, the combination of antennae less than 2 times the size of the head, antennal segment IV without annulations, 1+1 eyes, dorsal head with 9 spines, 2+2 regular spines per side on the anal valves, circumanal chaetae without basal serrations, subanal appendage long and apically serrated, manubrium with 5+5, and dorsal dens with 16 chaetae is unique among the Asian species of the caecus group.
["Appendiciphora"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿Revision of the new Australasian orb-weaving spider genus Salsa (Araneae, Araneidae)
A new Australasian genus in the orb-weaving spider family Araneidae Clerck, 1757 is described to include seven species: Salsa fuliginata (L. Koch, 1871) comb. nov. (type species; = Epeira rubicundula Keyserling, 1887) syn. nov.) (Australia, introduced to New Zealand); S. brisbanae (L. Koch, 1867) comb. nov. (Australia); S. canalae (Berland, 1924) comb. nov. (New Caledonia); S. neneba sp. nov. (Papua New Guinea); S. recherchensis (Main, 1954) comb. nov. (Australia); S. rueda sp. nov. (Australia); and S. tartara sp. nov. (Australia; Lord Howe Island endemic). Salsa gen. nov. belongs to the Australasian informal backobourkiine clade and differs from other genera of this clade by a distinct abdominal shape (single posterior abdominal tubercle) and ventral colouration (pale lateral spindle-shaped bands), male pedipalp morphology (C-shaped median apophysis that has teeth-like tubercles inside the basal arch) and the shape of the female epigyne scape (partially translucent and generally shorter than the epigyne plate). Based mainly on male pedipalp morphology within the backobourkiines, Salsa gen. nov. has closest morphological affinities with Acroaspis Karsch, 1878 and Socca Framenau, Castanheira & Vink, 2022.
["Australia"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿Five new species of Synagelides Strand, 1906 from China (Araneae, Salticidae)
Five new species of salticids were collected from China: Synagelides emangou Liu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀) from Gansu province, and S. jinding Liu, sp. nov. (♂), S. serratus Liu, sp. nov. (♂, ♀), S. shuqiang Liu, sp. nov. (♂), and S. triangulatus Liu, sp. nov. (♀) from Jiangxi Province. All species are described and illustrated with photographs and SEM micrographs, and their distributions are also mapped.
["Ant-like"]

﻿Notomastus bermejoi, a new species of Capitellidae (Annelida, Polychaeta) from the Gulf of California, with morphological remarks on species with hooks in thoracic chaetigers
Notomastus bermejoi sp. nov. from the Gulf of California shelf is described, illustrated, and compared with its congeners bearing hooded hooks in thoracic chaetigers. This new species is characterized by the presence of a prostomial palpode, only notopodia in the first chaetiger, hooded hooks in neuropodia of chaetiger 11, and its distinct methyl green staining pattern consisting of: chaetigers 1–4 slightly stained, chaetigers 5–10 with green bands encircling the segments, and a darker, solid, green band encircling the body in chaetigers 11–12. It is mainly distributed in the central Gulf of California in fine sand bottoms (62–96%) at 32–106.4 m depth, tolerating a wide range of temperature (13.2–17.59 °C), dissolved oxygen (0.8–4.93 ml/L), and organic carbon (3.0–7.2%). The type material and original descriptions of Notomastus species with hooks in thoracic chaetigers were examined; an identification key and tables with morphological distinctive characteristics, methyl green staining patterns, and geographic distribution of these close species are provided.
["Mexican Pacific"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Revision of Taiwanese and Ryukyuan species of Pristepyris Kieffer, 1905, with description of a new species (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae)
The pristocerine genus Pristepyris comprises 38 valid species recorded worldwide, except in the Australian Region. Of them, three species, namely P. mieae (Terayama, 1995), P. tainanensis (Terayama, 1995) and P. takasago (Terayama, 1996), have been recorded from Taiwan and three species, i.e. P. ishigakiensis (Yasumatsu, 1955), P. minutus (Yasumatsu, 1955) and P. ryukyuensis (Terayama, 1999), from the Ryukyus in Japan. In the present study, the species-level classification of both Taiwanese and Ryukyuan species of Pristepyris was revised using newly-collected specimens by the external and male genital morphological as well as molecular phylogenetic analysis. Overall, six species of Pristepyris were recorded from Taiwan and the Ryukyus. Among these, five were previously recorded for the region and were revised here: P. ishigakiensis, P. mieae, P. ryukyuensis, P. tainanensis and P. zhejiangensis. Additionally, a new species, P. seqalu sp. nov., is herein described and illustrated. Furthermore, the species P. minutus is transferred to Eleganesia and P. takasago is synonymized under P. minutus. Due to the new combination of Pristepyris minutus, a key to Taiwanese and Ryukyuan species of the genus Eleganesia, based on male morphology, is provided in Appendix 1. We confirmed for the first time the correspondence between the male and female species of P. zhejiangensis by molecular data. High compatibility in species delimitation patterns, suggested by the morphological and molecular phylogenetic approaches, highlighted the significance of the former approach for accurately classifying aged voucher specimens of Pristocerinae in public collections.
["Flat wasp"]

Expanding the knowledge on the diversity of the cavernicolous Styloniscidae Vandel, 1952 (Oniscidea, Synocheta) from Brazil, with descriptions of two new species from the semiarid karst regions
Two new species of Pectenoniscus from two caves in karst areas of the Brazilian semiarid region are described. Pectenoniscus pankaru Campos-Filho, Torres & Bichuette, sp. nov. from Gruna do Govi cave, Serra do Ramalho karst area, state of Bahia, and Pectenoniscus fervens Campos-Filho, Taiti & Bichuette, sp. nov. from Toca Coroa do Frade cave, Barra Bonita karst area, state of Piauí. In addition, specimens of Cylindroniscus flaviae from Gruta da Tapagem (= Caverna do Diabo), Açungui karst area were also recorded. An updated diagnosis of Pectenoniscus and a distribution map of the species examined herein are given.
["A\u00e7ungui geomorphological group"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

﻿Bug cemetery: a case study of terrestrial isopod distribution on a brick wall in the Czech Republic
Although terrestrial isopods (Oniscidea) are primarily soil- and surface-dwelling invertebrates, they can also be found on tree trunks and walls. This study evaluated distribution patterns of terrestrial isopods on a brick wall during the first hours of night in autumn. Four species of terrestrial isopods were recorded with Armadillidium versicolor being the dominant one. Terrestrial isopods were distributed from ground level up to a height of 2 m, but preferred a 70–80 cm height band. The highest number of active individuals was observed 3 h after astronomical dusk. Potential predators of terrestrial isopods were abundant during the same time and at the same height.
["Isopoda"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Daily and seasonal time partitioning in surface activity of Porcellio albinus (Isopoda, Oniscidea) in the arid region of Zarat (Gabes, Tunisia)
The terrestrial isopod Porcellio albinus is a burrowing species, dwelling in the desert of south Tunisia. Field studies were carried out in the coastal area of Zarat, Tunisia, to examine the surface activity rhythm of P. albinus in relation to daily and seasonal variations in environmental conditions. The activity of P. albinus was followed once a month, from November 2012 through October 2013. Hourly capture frequency was compared across the different seasons of the year. Porcellio albinus is a strictly nocturnal species showing a nycthemeral rhythm regulated by the rhythmic and natural variations of the duration of the dark period. A positive correlation is observed between the circadian rhythm of the locomotor activity of the species and the duration of the dark period outside its burrow, P. albinus has a single daily activity peak. Individuals concentrated their activity in the first part of the night in winter and in the second part in summer. This peak is more spread out in spring and autumn. The differences in the activity rhythm of P. albinus between different seasons may be determined by two important factors, namely temperature and the length of the dark period.
["Burrowing species"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Avoidance behaviour toxicity tests should account for animal gregariousness: a case study on the terrestrial isopod Porcellio scaber
Avoidance behaviour enables woodlice to escape suboptimal environmental conditions and to mitigate harmful effects of pollutants. However, several studies have shown that at least in some woodlice species the tendency to aggregate can lead to suboptimal responses as the between-conspecific attraction can outweigh the aversive stimuli. The present study evaluated the influence of gregariousness on the behaviour of Porcellio scaber in a heterogeneously polluted environment. The hypothesis was that the tendency for aggregation outweighs the tendency for exploratory activity, therefore animals in groups will be less active. Consequently, this will affect their avoidance of polluted environmental patches. To test this hypothesis, isolated individuals or pairs of individuals were monitored in free-choice arenas where animals could select between uncontaminated and pyrethrin-contaminated soils. Animals were video recorded for 3 h in darkness using infrared light and analysed for avoidance behaviour and locomotor activity. In general, isolated animals were more locomotory active and avoided the contaminated soil more than paired animals. It can be concluded that aggregation behaviour suppresses exploratory behaviour and consequently also the avoidance of polluted environments. This should be accounted for when interpreting results of avoidance tests with groups of gregarious animals, which may underestimate the effect of pollutants.
["Aggregation"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿Rhynchospio aciliata sp. nov., a new spionid species (Annelida, Spionidae) from the Korea Strait
A new spionid polychaete, Rhynchospio aciliata sp. nov., was discovered in the fine sandy sediments of an intertidal habitat from Korean waters. The new species is considered a simultaneous hermaphrodite, but no brooding embryos were found in any of the specimens collected in this study. This species is unique in the absence of ciliation in the anteriormost chaetigers. Rhynchospio aciliata sp. nov. is morphologically most similar to Rhynchospio foliosa Imajima, 1991 from Japan in having an elevation on the prostomium, conspicuously large and foliaceous branchiae, and intersegmental lateral pouches. However, the new species differs from the latter by the following characteristics: (1) large and lanceolate notopodial postchaetal lamellae of chaetiger 1, (2) transverse ciliated bands and ciliation on the inner branchiae absent in anteriormost chaetigers, and (3) pygidium with one pair of ventral cirri and numerous elongated dorsolateral cirri. Detailed description and illustrations of the new species are provided with molecular information on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA), nuclear 18S rDNA, and 28S rDNA.
["Korean waters"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿The pseudoscorpions of the Caucasian Sphagnum bogs: part I. Description of Neobisium (Neobisium) adjaricum sp. nov. and redescription of the holotype of N. (N.) vilcekii Krumpál, 1983 (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpiones, Neobisiidae)
A new species of pseudoscorpions, Neobisium (Neobisium) adjaricum sp. nov., is described and diagnosed. It was collected in the Sphagnum habitats of Ispani lowland mires in Transcaucasia (Republic of Adjara, Georgia). The habitat of N. (N.) adjaricum sp. nov. is described. The holotype of N. (N.) vilcekii Krumpál, 1983, a species most similar morphologically to N. (N.) adjaricum sp. nov., known from the North Caucasus (Republic of North Ossetia–Alania, Russia), is redescribed. Diagnostic characters of the relative Caucasian species of the subgenus Neobisium Chamberlin, 1930 are analysed.
["Bryobiont"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Reconsideration of some populations of Euscorpius concinnus complex (Scorpiones, Euscorpiidae)
["In the present work"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

﻿A new species of Halorhynchus from Madagascar (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Cossoninae, Onycholipini)
Halorhynchus remii Chamorro & Steiner, sp. nov. is described from Madagascar. This new species is the third known species of the genus and the first for Africa. Halorhynchus remii is compared to other psammophilous, anophthalmous onycholipine cossonines. Transoceanic dispersal between Australia and Madagascar and sand burrowing adaptation are briefly discussed. A key to the species is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

﻿Revision of the subgenus Mesopraocis Flores & Pizarro-Araya of the Neotropical genus Praocis Eschscholtz (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Pimeliinae)
The second part of a revision of the species of the genus Praocis Eschscholtz is presented. The subgenus Mesopraocis Flores & Pizarro-Araya, distributed in northern Chile from 25° South to 31° South, is revised. This article includes a redescription of the subgenus, redescriptions of its species, an identification key, and a discussion on morphological adaptations of the species to fossorial life. Habitus photographs, scanning electron micrographs of head, antennae, prosternum, abdomen, and protibiae, illustrations of genital features, and distribution maps are presented. Conical pegs sensilla on tibiae are described and illustrated using SEM for the first time for a South American tenebrionid species. A new Praocis species is described: Praocis (Mesopraocis) arenicola sp. nov. Praocis (Mesopraocis) flava Kulzer, 1958 is synonymised with P. (M.) pilula Laporte, 1840. Other species of the subgenus are: P. (M.) calderana Kulzer and P. (M.) nitens Kulzer. A statement on the variation in the number of antennomeres in P. (M.) pilula is appended.
["Atacama"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿A new species of the Spirobranchus kraussii complex, S. akitsushima (Annelida, Polychaeta, Serpulidae), from the rocky intertidal zone of Japan
A new species of Spirobranchus (Annelida: Serpulidae) is described based on specimens collected at the coastal Shonan area of Sagami Bay and the adjacent areas of Honshu, Japan. Spirobranchus akitsushima sp. nov. forms large aggregations in the intertidal rocky zone of warm-temperate Japanese shores. This species was referred to as Pomatoleios kraussii (Baird, 1864) until the monotypic genus Pomatoleios was synonymized with Spirobranchus. This new species is formally described based on morphologically distinct Japanese specimens with supporting DNA sequence data. The calcareous opercular endplate of Spirobranchus akitsushima sp. nov. lacks a distinct talon, but some specimens have a slight rounded swelling on the endplate underside, while in other species of the S. kraussii complex a talon is present, usually extended, and with bulges. We examined sub-fossil tube aggregations of the new species and suggest that such aggregation stranded ashore is a good indicator of vertical land movements (uplift and subsidence) resulting from past events, such as earthquakes, in Honshu, Japan.
["Cosmopolitan species"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and environmental studies"]

﻿Review of Ophioplinthaca Verrill, 1899 (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea, Ophiacanthidae), description of new species in Ophioplinthaca and Ophiophthalmus, and new records from the Northwest Pacific and the South China Sea
The ophiuroid genus Ophioplinthaca is well characterized by the deep incisions in the disc. Prior to this study, it contained 32 accepted species, but species limits and geographic distributions were not well understood. The manned submersible vehicle ‘Shenhaiyongshi’ was used to collect ophiuroid specimens from the deep-sea seamounts and cold seeps in the South China Sea and Northwest Pacific at 602–3600 m depth, during 2018 to 2020. The genus Ophioplinthaca was reviewed using both morphological data and a phylogenetic analysis, based on COI sequences. The taxonomic status of the genus Ophiophthalmus Matsumoto, 1917, a junior homonym of Ophiophthalmus Fitzinger, 1843 (a reptile) was clarified by proving prevailing usage of the ophiuroid name. A total of eight species were identified, including two new species, described as Ophioplinthaca brachispina sp. nov. and Ophiophthalmus serratus sp. nov., and two new records. The new species are characterized by unique features of the arm skeletons. Tabular keys to all Ophioplinthaca and Ophiophthalmus species are provided. Interspecific and intraspecific genetic distance of Ophioplinthaca species ranged from 2.32% to 19.72%, and from 0.26% to 0.90%, respectively. The data suggest that species of the genus Ophioplinthaca are more widely spread around the Northwest Pacific region deep-sea seamounts than previously known.
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

﻿Thailandorchestia rhizophila sp. nov., a new genus and species of driftwood hopper (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Protorchestiidae) from Thailand
During a scientific survey, a new genus of driftwood hopper was found in mangrove roots in Ko Kut District, Trat Province, Thailand. We placed this new genus, Thailandorchestia gen. nov., within the family Protorchestiidae. The new genus can be distinguished from the remaining genera by uropod 1 outer ramus with robust setae, uropod 2 outer ramus without robust setae, and pereopod 7 basis without a posterodistal lobe. The type species of Thailandorchestia gen. nov., Thailandorchestia rhizophila sp. nov., is described herein, and an updated key to the genera of the family Protorchestiidae is provided.
["Quantum and Classical Electrodynamics", "Quantum Mechanics and Non-Hermitian Physics", "Quantum Mechanics and Applications"]

﻿Revision of the Malagasy Camponotus subgenus Myrmosaga (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) using qualitative and quantitative morphology
The Camponotus subgenus Myrmosaga subgen. rev. from the Malagasy region is revised based on analysis of both qualitative morphological characters and morphometric traits. The multivariate analysis used the Nest Centroid (NC)-clustering method to generate species hypotheses based on 19 continuous morphological traits of minor workers. The proposed species hypotheses were confirmed by cumulative Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). Morphometric ratios for the subsets of minor and major workers were used in species descriptions and redefinitions. The present study places the subgenus Myrmopytia syn. nov. in synonymy to Myrmosaga. It recognizes 38 species, of which 19 are newly described: C. aina sp. nov., C. aro sp. nov., C. asara sp. nov., C. atimo sp. nov., C. bemaheva sp. nov., C. bozaka sp. nov., C. daraina sp. nov., C. harenarum sp. nov., C. joany sp. nov., C. karsti sp. nov., C. kelimaso sp. nov., C. lokobe sp. nov., C. mahafaly sp. nov., C. niavo sp. nov., C. rotrae sp. nov., C. sambiranoensis sp. nov., C. tapia sp. nov., C. tendryi sp. nov., C. vano sp. nov. Eleven species are redescribed: C. aurosus Roger, C. cervicalis Roger, C. dufouri Forel, C. gibber Forel, C. hagensii Forel, C. hova Forel, C. hovahovoides Forel, C. immaculatus Forel, C. quadrimaculatus Forel, C. roeseli Forel, C. strangulatus Santschi. The following are raised to species and redescribed: C. becki Santschi stat. nov., C. boivini Forel stat. rev., C. cemeryi Özdikmen stat. rev., C. mixtellus Forel stat. nov., C. radamae Forel stat. nov. Camponotus maculatus st. fairmairei Santschi syn. nov., is synonymized under C. boivini. The following are synonymized under C. cervicalis: Camponotus cervicalis gaullei Santschi, syn. nov.; Camponotus perroti Forel, syn. nov.; Camponotus perroti aeschylus Forel, syn. nov.; Camponotus gerberti Donisthorpe, syn. nov. Camponotus dufouri imerinensis Forel, syn. nov. is a synonym of C. dufouri, Camponotus hova var. obscuratus Emery, syn. nov. is a synonym of C. hova, Camponotus quadrimaculatus opacata Emery, syn. nov. is a synonym of C. immaculatus, Camponotus maculatus st. legionarium Santschi, syn. nov. is a synonym of C. roeseli, Camponotus hova maculatoides Emery, syn. nov. is a synonym of C. strangulatus. The following are synonymized under C. quadrimaculatus: Camponotus kelleri Forel, syn. nov., Camponotus kelleri var. invalidus Forel, syn. nov., Camponotus quadrimaculatus sellaris Emery, syn. nov. As C. imitator Forel, C. liandia Rakotonirina & Fisher, and C. lubbocki Forel have been recently described and redescribed, only diagnoses and taxonomic discussions are provided. This revision also includes an illustrated species identification key, taxonomic discussions, images, and distribution maps for each species superimposed on the ecoregions of Madagascar.
["Madagascar"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿New species and new records of the genus Filatima Busck, 1939 (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae) from Central Asia
Four new species of Filatima Busck, 1939 are described from Central Asia: Filatima armata sp. nov. (Iran), F. subarmata sp. nov. (Pakistan, Iran), F. afghana sp. nov. (Afghanistan), and F. karii sp. nov. (Tajikistan). The hitherto unknown female of Filatima multicornuta Bidzilya & Nupponen, 2018 is described. Recorded to occur for the first time are Filatima textorella (Chrétien, 1908) from North Macedonia and Turkey, F. pallipalpella (Snellen, 1884) from Kyrgyzstan, and Filatima zagulajevi Anikin & Piskunov, 1996 from Kazakhstan. Filatima fontisella Lvovsky & Piskunov, 1989 is removed from the list of Russian Gelechiidae due to re-identification of the only record as F. multicornuta. An annotated checklist of Palaearctic Filatima species is provided.
["Afghanistan"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

﻿Three new species of Macrostomum (Platyhelminthes, Macrostomorpha) from China and Australia, with notes on taxonomy and phylogenetics
In this paper, three species of the macrostomid free-living flatworm genus Macrostomum are described. Two species, Macrostomum littorale Wang & Shi, sp. nov. and M. shekouense Wang & Shi, sp. nov., were collected from coastal water at Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China. One species, M. brandi Wang & Shi, sp. nov., was collected from Perth, Western Australia and Queenscliff, Victoria, Australia. Macrostomum littorale sp. nov. differs from congeneric species within the genus in the length of the stylet, diameter of stylet opening, and the bend of the stylet. Macrostomum shekouense sp. nov. and M. brandi sp. nov. differ from similar species within the genus in the stylet morphology, position of the female antrum and developing eggs, or presence or absence of the false seminal vesicle. Phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene shows that M. littorale sp. nov. and M. hystrix are sister clades on two well-separated branch, M. shekouense sp. nov. and M. brandi sp. nov. are sister clades on two well-separated branches. Accordingly, both morphological and molecular evidence support M. littorale sp. nov., M. shekouense sp. nov., and M. brandi sp. nov. as three new species.
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿Two new Drawida (Oligochaeta, Moniligastridae) earthworms from Vietnam
Two new earthworm species are described, namely Drawida angiang sp. nov. and Drawida cochinchina sp. nov. The former can be recognized by having male pores on spiniform penises in intersegment 10/11, an erect and sac-shaped spermathecal atrium, glandular prostate, the capsule coiled one round, the vas deferens strongly coiled but small, two large, round, genital markings on segments ix–x, and three gizzards in xiii–xv. The latter species is distinguished in having the male pores placed on highly elevated, backwardly directed, conical penises in 10/11, a slender spermathecal atrium, a glandular prostate, a somewhat folded capsule, the vas deferens strongly coiled as a bunch and equal size to the testis sacs, a pair of genital markings located closely anterior to the penises with 1–3 additional ones in xi–xii, and three or four gizzards in xiii–xvi. The DNA barcode fragment of the COI gene was extracted for each species, and the COI genetic distances and phylogenetic analysis also supported two new species..
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿A new cryptic species in the Theloderma rhododiscus complex (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from China–Vietnam border regions
We describe a new species of Theloderma from southern Yunnan, China and northern Vietnam based on morphological and molecular evidence. Theloderma hekouense sp. nov., which had been recorded as T. rhododiscus, is the sister to T. rhododiscus. The new species differs genetically from T. rhododiscus by 4.2% and 10.7% in 16S rRNA and COI genes, respectively, and it can be morphologically distinguished from T. rhododiscus by having more densely spaced white warts on the dorsal surface, red subarticular tubercles, red metacarpal tubercles, a red metatarsal tubercle, and black dorsal and ventral surfaces in preservative. Currently the new species is only known from the China–Vietnam border regions of Yunnan and Ha Giang, while T. rhododiscus has a wide distributional range in China including Guangxi, Guangdong, Hunan, Fujian, Jiangxi, and presumably Guizhou and eastern Yunnan. Including the new species, there are currently 10 Theloderma species in China and seven Theloderma species in Yunnan, where more species will probably be found.

﻿Description of Chilearinus Sharkey gen. nov. and status of Nearctic Earinus Wesmael, 1837 (Braconidae, Agathidinae) with the description of new species
The Neotropical members formerly included in Earinus Wesmael, 1837 are transferred to a new genus, Chilearinus Sharkey gen. nov. Presently three Nearctic species of Earinus are recognized, i.e., Earinus erythropoda Cameron, 1887, Earinus limitaris Say,1835, and Earinus zeirapherae Walley, 1935, and these are retained in Earinus. Earinus chubuquensis Berta, 2000 and Earinus scitus Enderlein, 1920 are transferred to Chilearinus, i.e., C. chubuquensis, and C. scitus, comb. nov. One other species is transferred to Chilearinus, i.e., Microgaster rubricollis Spinola, 1851, Chilearinus rubricollis, comb. nov. Two other Neotropical species, Earinus hubrechtae Braet, 2002 and Earinus bourguignoni Braet, 2002 were described under the genus Earinus but are here transferred to Lytopylus, L. hubrechtae, and L. bourguignoni comb. nov. Two new species of Chilearinus are described, C. covidchronos and C. janbert spp. nov. The status of Agathis laevithorax Spinola,1851, Agathis rubricata Spinola,1851, and Agathis areolata Spinola, 1851 is discussed. A neotype is designated for Earinus limitaris (Say, 1835) and diagnosed with a COI barcode. Earinus austinbakeri and Earinus walleyi spp. nov. are described. The status of both Earinus and Chilearinus in the Americas is discussed. A revised key to the genera of Agathidinae of the Americas is presented.
["Accelerated taxonomy"]

﻿A new species of the genus Separatatus Chen & Wu (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) from South Korea
Separatatus megagnathus sp. nov. is recorded as new to science from South Korea. Due to this record, the genus Separatatus Chen & Wu, 1994 (Braconidae: Alysiinae) is recognized for the first time from South Korea. The genus and species are described and illustrated herein plus an identification key including the Korean new species is provided. In addition, the DNA barcode region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) has been analyzed for the new species.
["COI barcode"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Three new species of non-marine ostracods (Crustacea, Ostracoda) from small water bodies of northern China
Three new species, Pseudocandona cheni sp. nov., Cyclocypris pangi sp. nov., and Tonnacypris rectangularis sp. nov., collected from northern China, are described in this study. Pseudocandona cheni, of the compressa group, is difficult to be distinguished from other members of the same group by carapace morphology alone, but can be readily recognised by the structure of the hemipenis comprised of a long lobe a, distally inflated lobe h, and exteriorly pointed lobe b, as well as thick trunks of the male fifth limb endopodites. Cyclocypris pangi, despite its similarity in carapace morphology to its congeners, can be identified based on the morphology of the hemipenis, which bears a slender, slightly curved lobe h, and an S-shaped process accompanying lobe b, in addition to the rectangular trunk of the male fifth limb endopodite. On the other hand, Tonnacypris rectangularis, described on the basis of females only, can be distinguished from other Tonnacypris Diebel & Pietrzeniuk, 1975 representatives by its distinct sub-rectangular carapace alone. Other differences include the length of the swimming setae, the length of the distal claws on the second antennae, and the morphology of the pincer organ on the seventh limb. This study contributes to the poorly known extant non-marine ostracod fauna of Inner Mongolia and Beijing, and generally to the central-eastern Palaearctic region. In addition, the known distribution range of Tonnacypris is extended eastwardly by T. rectangularis. The valve-morphology data are useful for identifying fossil/sub-fossil representatives.
["Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Geological Formations and Processes Exploration"]

﻿The complete mitochondrial DNA sequences of two sibling species of lumbricid earthworms, Eisenia fetida (Savigny, 1826) and Eisenia andrei (Bouché, 1972) (Annelida, Crassiclitellata): comparison of mitogenomes and phylogenetic positioning
Composting earthworms of the genus Eisenia play an important role in soil ecosystems. However, taxonomic classification of this genus, especially the sibling species Eisenia fetida and Eisenia andrei, is complicated because of their morphological similarity. In this study, we assessed the utility of the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) for identification and differentiation of the two species. The complete mitogenomes of E. andrei and E. fetida were 15,714 and 16,560 bp, respectively. They contained 37 genes, comprising 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and a putative non-coding region, as observed in other earthworms. Sequence comparisons based on the complete nucleotide sequences excluding the non-coding region showed 85.8% similarity, whereas the predicted amino acid sequences of the 13 PCGs were 92.7% similar between the two species. In particular, distinct features were found in the non-coding regions of the mitogenomes. They include a control region associated with putative mitogenome replication and an extended sequence. The extended sequence showed significant differences between the two species and other known earthworm species, suggesting its potential as a feasible molecular marker for species identification. Phylogenetic analysis of the 36 mitogenomes of earthworm species corroborated the monophyly of the genus Eisenia and the taxonomic distinctness of the sibling species pair, E. fetida and E. andrei.
["Compost worms"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿A new species of Sarsinebalia (Crustacea, Leptostraca) from Japan
A new species of Leptostraca, Sarsinebalia agoensis sp. nov., from Ago Bay, Japan is described from specimens found at a depth of 120 m. The new species differs from other known Sarsinebalia species as follows: the compound eye has three distal lobes; the anterior margin of the first antennal segment has one distal process covered with setae; and the lateral margin of pleopod 1 exopod bears 5–6 simple, robust spines. A taxonomic key to all species of Sarsinebalia is also provided.
["Ago Bay"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿Tadpole soup: Chinantec caldo de piedra and behavior of Duellmanohyla ignicolor larvae (Amphibia, Anura, Hylidae)
Although amphibian consumption by humans has been reported globally, this practice is not well studied despite its direct implications to the decline of amphibian populations. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recognizes the need to document the use and trade of species to be considered in assessing their extinction risk. Here the consumption of Duellmanohyla ignicolor tadpoles is documented. It is a micro endemic species categorized as Near Threatened (NT) consumed in a traditional dish called “caldo de piedra” (stone soup) prepared by the Chinantec people (Tsa Ju Jmí’) in Oaxaca, Mexico. Through conversations with local people and stream monitoring, the behavior of tadpoles of this species was documented and aspects of their exploitation and habitat use described. Places where caldo de piedra is still consumed were determined and using a spatial analysis with Geographic Information Systems, the distribution of the species in relation to those localities was analyzed. A number of other areas where tadpoles of this species might also occur and be exploited is predicted. In conclusion, the school behaviour, surface feeding, and the preference for deeper waterbodies that these tadpoles exhibit makes them vulnerable to being caught in large quantities. As they are consumed locally, are not commercialized, and the species distribution range is wider than caldo de piedra consumption, this implies a low risk for their populations. However, the tadpoles’ reliance on streams with depths x̄ = 60 cm and flux x̄ = 0.65 m/s reduces the availability of sites for their optimal development.
["Amphibian"]

﻿Two new species of cave-adapted pseudoscorpions (Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae) from Yunnan, China
Two new cave-adapted pseudoscorpion species belonging to the family Chthoniidae are described: Tyrannochthonius pandus sp. nov. from Biyu Cave (Yunnan: Luxi) and Lagynochthonius laoxueyanensis sp. nov. from Laoxueyan Cave (Yunnan: Yanshan). Both of them, collected from the dark zone of caves, are highly troglomorphic species.
["Karst biotope"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Identification key to and checklist of the Swedish Phlaeothripidae (Thysanoptera)
The Swedish fauna of thrips (Thysanoptera) in the family Phlaeothripidae consists of 49 species. A key to the species of Phlaeothripidae found in Sweden is provided. One species is recorded as new for the country, and 10 new regional records are presented. A checklist of all Swedish tubuliferan species with regional distributions is also given.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Three new species of Apseudomorpha (Crustacea, Tanaidacea) from Jiaozhou Bay, the Yellow Sea, and the South China Sea off coasts of China
Three new species of the crustacean order Tanaidacea are described from the coasts of China. Apseudes spinidigitus sp. nov. (family Apseudidae), from the South China Sea, can be distinguished from the most similar species, A. nhatrangensis, by the features of the maxilliped endite, cheliped dactylus, pereopod 1 carpus and propodus, and pleopods basal article. Phoxokalliapseudes shandongensis sp. nov. (family Kalliapseudidae), from Jiaozhou Bay and the Yellow Sea, can be differentiated from the most similar species, P. gibbus, by the features of the antennule article 1, pereopods 1 and 6 propodi, and uropod basal article. Swireapseudes planafrontis sp. nov. (family Parapseudidae), from Jiaozhou Bay, can be clearly separated from its congeners by its rostrum, antennule article 1, and pereopod 4 dactylus. A morphological key and comparison table of genus Apseudes from the South China Sea, as well as all known species of the genera Phoxokalliapseudes and Swireapseudes are provided.
["Apseudes"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

﻿Revision of rove beetle genus Bolitogyrus Chevrolat (Staphylininae, Cyrtoquediini). Supplement 1
Bolitogyrus is a moderately diverse genus of 78 species that are widely disjunct in the subtropical and tropical forests of the Neotropical and Oriental regions. Following recent revisions of both the Neotropical and Oriental species, this study provides new distributional data, a revised species concept for Bolitogyrus strigifrons (Wendeler) sensu nov., and the description of B. pseudostrigifrons sp. nov. and B. nigropolitoides sp. nov., bringing the total number of Bolitogyrus species to 80. Several keys are updated to reflect the newly available data and new species.
["Neotropical"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿A revision of the wilsoni species group in the millipede genus Nannaria Chamberlin, 1918 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Xystodesmidae)
Although many new species of the millipede genus Nannaria Chamberlin, 1918 have been known from museum collections for over half a century, a systematic revision has not been undertaken until recently. There are two species groups in the genus: the minor species group and the wilsoni species group. In this study, the wilsoni species group was investigated. Specimens were collected from throughout its distribution in the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States and used for a multi-gene molecular phylogeny. The phylogenetic tree recovered Nannaria and the two species groups as monophyletic, with Oenomaea pulchella as its sister group. Seventeen new species were described, bringing the composition of the wilsoni species group to 24 species, more than tripling its known diversity, and increasing the total number of described Nannaria species to 78. The genus now has the greatest number of species in the family Xystodesmidae. Museum holdings of Nannaria were catalogued, and a total of 1,835 records used to produce a distribution map of the species group. Live photographs, illustrations of diagnostic characters, ecological notes, and conservation statuses are given. The wilsoni species group is restricted to the Appalachian region, unlike the widely-distributed minor species group (known throughout eastern North America), and has a distinct gap in its distribution in northeastern Tennessee and adjacent northwestern North Carolina. The wilsoni species group seems to be adapted to mesic microhabitats in middle to high elevation forests in eastern North America. New species are expected to be discovered in the southern Appalachian Mountains.
["Appalachia"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿A new species of Pseudophanerotoma (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from Nayarit, Mexico
Parasitoid wasps are known to be among the most abundant and species-rich on Earth and thus considered an ecologically important group of arthropods. Braconid wasps play a key role in regulating the populations of Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Diptera. However, the biology and taxonomy of numerous parasitoid species remain poorly known. In Mexico, only 17 species of the subfamily Cheloninae have been described. A new species of Pseudophanerotoma Zettel, 1990 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), P. huichol sp. nov., is described from Nayarit, Mexico. The tortricid moth Cryptaspasma perseana Gilligan & Brown, 2011 is reported as the host of this parasitoid wasp. Detailed taxonomic and barcoding information are provided.
["Cheloninae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿Morphology and distribution of the Middle Asian centipede genus Krateraspis Lignau, 1929 (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha, Mecistocephalidae)
A comprehensive redescription of the poorly known mecistocephalid genus Krateraspis Lignau, 1929 and its two species is provided, based on the examination of type material and new specimens, as well as the critical evaluation of all published information. Krateraspis is confirmed differing from all other Mecistocephalidae especially for a peculiar pattern of areolation and setation of the clypeus. Records from 24 localities indicate that Krateraspis is limited to a narrow area of Middle Asia, from the Western Tian-Shan to the western offshoots of Pamir Mountains. Two species are morphologically distinguishable: K. meinerti (Sseliwanoff, 1881) and K. sselivanovi Titova, 1975. They differ mainly in details of the clypeus and maxillae, in the pattern of forcipular denticles, and in the number of legs. Tygarrup asiaticus Verhoeff, 1930 is confirmed as a junior synonym of K. meinerti, and a lectotype is designated for the former.
["Kazakhstan"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿Descriptions of two new Idiocerini leafhoppers of the genus Idioscopus (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae) from China
Two new species of the leafhopper genus Idioscopus Baker are described from China: Idioscopus bihamulus sp. nov. and I. ventrispinus sp. nov., the latter recorded on a species of Myrica L. (Myricaceae) as its host plant. A key and checklist to species of the genus from China are provided and Idioscopus taiwanus Huang & Maldonado-Capriles, 1992 is placed as a junior synonym of Idioscopus clypealis (Lethierry, 1889), syn. nov.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿A new species of medicinal leech in the genus Hirudo Linnaeus, 1758 (Hirudiniformes, Hirudinidae) from Tianjin City, China
Medicinal leeches in the genus Hirudo have been utilized for therapeutic procedures for thousands of years. To date, six known species of Hirudo are widely distributed in different regions of the Eurasian continent. In this study, a new medicinal leech species Hirudo tianjinensis Liu, sp. nov. is described based upon specimens collected from Tianjin City, China. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of characters: blackish green dorsum with five continuous yellow longitudinal stripes; six sensillae on dorsal annulus a2 of segments VIII–XXV; greyish green ventrum with irregular bilateral dark brown spots; dorsum and abdomen separated by a pair of pale yellow stripes; front half atrium wrapped by white prostate; apparent albumen gland; epididymis massive in relation to ejaculatory bulb. The phylogenetic tree based upon COI implies a sister relationship to H. nipponia Whitman, 1886. A key to the known species is provided.
["Blood-feeding leech"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿A new species of Trisiniotus Jeannel from Mao-shan, East China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
The genus Trisiniotus Jeannel of the pselaphine tribe Batrisini comprises two species distributed in North India and southern Myanmar. Here, a third species, T. taoismus Feng & Yin sp. nov., is described from Mao-shan, Jiangsu Province, East China. The new species can be readily distinguished from both congeners by the unmodified male antennae.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿Crab spiders (Araneae, Thomisidae) of Jinggang Mountain National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi Province, China
A list of 34 thomisid species belonging to 21 genera collected in Jangxi Province of China is provided. Five new species are described: Angaeus xieluae Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), Lysiteles subspirellus Liu, sp. nov. (♀), Oxytate mucunica Liu, sp. nov. (♀), Pharta lingxiufengica Liu, sp. nov. (♀), Stephanopis xiangzhouica Liu, sp. nov. (♀). A new combination is proposed: Ebelingia forcipata (Song & Zhu, 1993) comb. nov. (ex. Ebrechtella Dahl, 1907). Previously unknown females of E. forcipata (Song & Zhu, 1993), Oxytate bicornis Liu, Liu & Xu, 2017, and Xysticus lesserti Schenkel, 1963 are described for the first time. Stephanopis O Pickard-Cambridge, 1869, a genus previously known from Australasia and South America, is recorded from the Asian mainland for the first time.

﻿Four new Parasterope (Ostracoda, Myodocopina) from the Northwest Pacific and their phylogeny based on 16S rRNA
Parasterope Kornicker, 1975 is a marine ostracod genus with 49 species described so far, which makes it the most diverse representative of the subfamily Cylindroleberidinae, as well as the entire family Cylindroleberididae. Despite its global distribution no species are reported from South Korea. Three new species collected from the Korean coast of the Sea of Japan (Parasterope busanensis sp. nov., P. singula sp. nov., and P. sohi sp. nov.), and one from the Japanese coast of the Pacific Ocean (P. sagami sp. nov.) are described. A taxonomic key to all named species from East Asia is provided. A phylogenetic tree is reconstructed based on partial 16S rRNA sequences of the four new species and other Cylindroleberidinae available from GenBank. Monophyly of Parasterope is supported by high posterior probabilities, but the phylogenetic analyses also indicate that some of the GenBank data attributed to this genus are probably misidentifications. A map of distribution and a checklist of all described Parasterope species are also provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Holothuria (Lessonothuria) coronata sp. nov. (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea), a new species of sea cucumber from Socorro Island, México
Holothuria (Lessonothuria) coronata sp. nov. occurs in depths of 5–10 m off the Mexican Pacific coast at the Revillagigedo Archipelago. It is clearly distinguished from other species of the subgenus by the presence of tables with a circular disc and big peripheral holes, sometimes with a second series of peripheral ones, a disc with a spiny or smooth rim and a spire crossed by a single cross-beam, dorsal papillae, and ventral tube feet with curved supporting rods with a spiny edge.
["Holothuriidae"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Seaweed-derived Bioactive Compounds"]

﻿Description of two new species of the genus Tillicera Spinola (Coleoptera, Cleridae, Clerinae), with new synonyms, new distributional records, and an updated key
Two species, Tillicera fortis sp. nov. and Tillicera spinosa sp. nov., are newly described. New distributional records are presented for Tillicera callosa Gerstmeier & Bernhard, 2010, Tillicera javana Spinola, 1844, Tillicera pseudocleroides Gerstmeier & Bernhard, 2010, Tillicera soror Schenkling, 1902, and Tillicera tonkinensis Gerstmeier & Bernhard, 2010. Clerus postmaculatus Nakane, 1963 syn. nov. is synonymized with Tillicera ihlei Corporaal, 1949. The presence of sensory organs (sensilla) on the ventral surface of the antennae is discovered in Tillicera and Hemitrachys for the first time. A key to the valid species of Tillicera is provided.
["Antennal sensilla"]

﻿Catalogue of the Diptera (Insecta) of Morocco— an annotated checklist, with distributions and a bibliography
The faunistic knowledge of the Diptera of Morocco recorded from 1787 to 2021 is summarized and updated in this first catalogue of Moroccan Diptera species. A total of 3057 species, classified into 948 genera and 93 families (21 Nematocera and 72 Brachycera), are listed. Taxa (superfamily, family, genus and species) have been updated according to current interpretations, based on reviews in the literature, the expertise of authors and contributors, and recently conducted fieldwork. Data to compile this catalogue were primarily gathered from the literature. In total, 1225 references were consulted and some information was also obtained from online databases. Each family was reviewed and the checklist updated by the respective taxon expert(s), including the number of species that can be expected for that family in Morocco. For each valid species, synonyms known to have been used for published records from Morocco are listed under the currently accepted name. Where available, distribution within Morocco is also included. One new combination is proposed: Assuania melanoleuca (Séguy, 1941), comb. nov. (Chloropidae).
["Bibliography"]

﻿An update to the 2014 nomenclator of Valvatidae
This contribution is an update to the 2014 compilation of all supra- and (infra-) specific taxa of extant and fossil Valvatidae, a group of freshwater operculate snails near the base of Heterobranchia with a nearly worldwide distribution. This update includes corrections and many additions (two replacement taxon names, 21 mainly fossil taxa previously overlooked, and 37 invalid names) to the 2014 contribution and adds all newly described species (11) during the past eight years. The extensive reference list is directly linked, where possible, to the available electronic source of the cited papers.
["freshwater snails"]

﻿Two new species of Platensina Enderlein (Diptera, Tephritidae, Tephritinae, Dithrycini) from India
Two new species of Platensina Enderlein, P. rabbanii David & Hancock, sp. nov., and P. flavistigma David & Hancock, sp. nov., are described from Meghalaya and southern India, respectively. Platensina rabbanii can be differentiated from P. alboapicalis Hering by the presence of a single hyaline indentation in cell r1 and the apical hyaline band in cell r2+3 restricted to the apex; P. flavistigma differs from P. quadrula Hardy by the presence of a yellow/fulvous pterostigma and shape of the epandrium. DNA barcode sequences of P. acrostacta (Wiedemann), P. flavistigma and P. platyptera Hendel were obtained and reported. Postabdominal descriptions and illustrations of P. acrostacta, P. platyptera and P. zodiacalis (Bezzi) are also provided along with keys to all 23 species and the 7 known from India.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿Three new species of Retusigaster Dangerfield, Austin & Whitfield, 1999 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Cardiochilinae) with an illustrated key to the New World species
Retusigaster Dangerfield, Austin & Whitfield, 1999 is a genus of the subfamily Cardiochilinae Ashmead, 1900 and exhibits high species richness in the New World. Eight species of the genus were recorded before this work: five species from the Nearctic region, two species from the Neotropical region, and one species from the Palearctic region. In this article, three new species of New World Retusigaster are described based on morphological characters: R. pulawskii sp. nov.; R. purshi sp. nov.; R. vanduzeei sp. nov. In addition, potential food sources of the members of R. arugosus (Mao, 1949) and R. purshi sp. nov. are reported, and an illustrated key to the New World species of Retusigaster is provided. The number of species of Retusigaster in the New World is increased from seven to ten.
["Gossypium sp."]

﻿Nothotytthonyx, a new genus of Malthininae (Coleoptera, Cantharidae) from mid-Cretaceous amber of northern Myanmar
A new fossil genus and species of Cantharidae, Nothotytthonyx serratus Li, Biffi, Kundrata & Cai gen. et sp. nov., is reported from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber. The new species is tentatively attributed to the extant subfamily Malthininae based on a combination of characters, including the symmetrical apical maxillary palpomeres, shortened elytra, pronotum with arched margins and well-defined borders, tibiae with apical spurs, and tarsal claws simple, although its well-developed gonostyli are atypical in Malthininae. The discovery of Nothotytthonyx also suggests a possible Gondwanan origin for Malthininae.
["Burmese amber"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

﻿Two new species and records of Neoperla (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from Yunnan, China
Two new species of the stonefly genus Neoperla, N. gaoligongshana sp. nov. and N. hajeki sp. nov. are described from Yunnan Province of southwestern China based on the morphological and distributional data, and the new species are compared with two congeners, N. wuzhishana Chen & Du, 2016 and N. orissa Stark & Sivec, 2015. Neoperla hubleyi Stark & Sivec, 2008 is recorded from Yunnan Province for the first time.
["New record"]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Technology Assessment and Management"]

A new species of Petalacmis firefly from Bolivia, with a key to species (Coleoptera, Lampyridae)
Petalacmis Olivier, 1908 is a poorly known genus of firefly endemic to South America and is currently the only member of the subfamily Lampyrinae, tribe Lampyrini known to occur on the continent. Here, we describe a new species, Petalacmis triplehorni sp. nov. from Bolivia and compare it to the two other described species in the genus. A key to Petalacmis species based on male traits, as well as illustrations of morphological features, are given in detail for the first time. We present unique, previously neglected traits of Petalacmis species and compare them to other Lampyrinae.
["Firefly"]
["bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Okalia necopinata sp. nov. (Insecta, Coleoptera, Elmidae) from Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak (Malaysia)
Okalia necopinata sp. nov., from Sarawak, northwest Borneo, Malaysia, is described and illustrated along with an identification key. The standard barcoding fragment of the mitochondrial gene coding for cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) was used together with morphological characters to delimit the taxonomic boundaries of the two known species, which live in shallow streams flowing through dense primary forests in limestone areas in Pahang (West Malaysia) and Sarawak (East Malaysia). The majority of all examined Okalia are flightless. Morphological distinguishing characters are the length of the granulated fifth elytral interval, the elytral and pronotal punctation, the aedeagal morphology, and the distal portion of the ovipositor.

﻿A review of the Temnothorax anodontoides species-group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Greece
A review of the Greek members of the Temnothorax anodontoides species-group revealed three species new to science: Temnothorax euboeae sp. nov. (Sterea Ellas, Euboea Island), Temnothorax arkasi sp. nov. (Peloponnese, Arcadia) and Temnothorax parnonensis sp. nov. (Peloponnese, Arcadia and Lakonia). The diagnoses of Temnothorax ikarosi Salata, Borowiec & Trichas, 2018 and T. anodontoides (Dlussky & Zabelin, 1985) are updated based of the new discoveries. Additionally, presence of the latter species in Greece is discussed and its distribution range revised. All members of the anodontoides species-group are associated with alpine and rocky habitats such as pastures and thermophilous forests. A dichotomous key to the anodontoides species-group from Greece is given.
["Myrmicinae"]

﻿On the genus Coccophagus Westwood (Hymenoptera, Aphelinidae) from Xishuangbanna Rainforest. Contribution I: Two new species of the Coccophagus varius group, with an identification key and phylogenetic analysis
Two new species belonging to the varius group of Coccophagus, C. breviclavulus sp. nov. and C. perlucidus sp. nov., are described from Xishuangbanna Rainforest (China, Yunnan). Coccophagus anchoroides (Huang) and C. yunnana Wang, Huang & Polaszek are recorded. A tentative key to world species of this group is provided. Partial nuclear ribosomal 28S-D2 of these four species and other six species were sequenced and subjected to a phylogenetic analysis. Phylogeny of C. varius group is discussed.
["Chalcidoidea"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿Molecular and morphological evidence revalidates Acrobrycon tarijae (Characiformes, Characidae) and shows hidden diversity
We conducted a revision of the Neotropical genus Acrobrycon. A previous study synonymized the species, A. ipanquianus, distributed from the western portion of the Amazon River to the north-western region of the La Plata River Basin, and A. tarijae, with type locality in the Lipeo River in Bolivia. We revisited this result by collecting new morphometric, meristic, and genetic data (COI mitochondrial gene) for 24 individuals distributed along La Plata River Basin in Argentina, and discussed our results in the context of multiple biogeographic processes of isolation in that basin. Our results revealed a more complex history of diversification and geographic distribution across Acrobrycon species than previously suspected, probably associated with multiple biogeographic processes of isolation in La Plata River Basin. We present new evidence that led us to reconsider the validity of A. tarijae, which is distinguishable from A. ipanquianus by the number of vertebrae (37–39 vs. 41–42) and pleural ribs (12–13 vs. 14). These results were also supported by our molecular analyses that revealed a genetic divergence >4% between A. ipanquianus and A. tarijae. We also identified two main genetic clusters within A. tarijae: the first cluster consisted of specimens from the Bermejo, Pilcomayo, Itiyuro and Juramento river basins (northern Argentina); and the second cluster included specimens from the southernmost basins, such as the Salí River in Tucumán, Cuarto River in the province of Cordoba and the Quinto River in the province of San Luis. Our results suggest that the genetic structure observed in A. tarijae is the result of the type of drainage (endorheic vs. exorheic) and geographical distance.
["Endorheic"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

﻿Additional fauna of Coelostoma Brullé, 1835 from China, with re-establishment of Coelostoma sulcatum Pu, 1963 as a valid species (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Sphaeridiinae)
Six new species of Coelostoma Brullé, 1835 are described from China: Coelostoma bannanicum Mai & Jia, sp. nov., C. dactylopunctum Mai & Jia, sp. nov., C. fortunum Mai & Jia, sp. nov., and C. pseudomartensi Mai & Jia, sp. nov. from Yunnan; C. mixtum Mai & Jia, sp. nov. from Fujian; and C. nankunshanense Mai & Jia, sp. nov. from Guangdong. Coelostoma surkhetensis Hebauer, 2002 is a new record from China (Xizang). Coelostoma huangi Jia, Aston & Fikáček, 2014 is reported from Yunnan, C. hajeki Jia, Aston & Fikáček, 2014 from Hunan, C. jaechi Jia, Lin, Chan, Skale & Fikáček, 2017 from Guangdong, C. turnai Hebauer, 2006 from Fujian, Guizhou and Chongqing, and C. wui Orchymont, 1940 from Shanxi and Zhejiang, all for the first time. Coelostoma transcaspicum Reitter, 1906 is excluded from Chinese fauna. Coelostoma sulcatum Pu, 1963 is confirmed as a valid species and its variations of aedeagus are illustrated. The specimens treated as C. wui Orchymont, 1940 by previous authors possibly contain two species. The diversity and habitats of Chinese Coelostoma are discussed. A modified key to the species of Chinese Coelostoma is provided.
["habitat"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Mountainous millipedes in Vietnam. II. A conspicuous Tylopus species from Northern Vietnam (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
A conspicuous Tylopus species is described from Northern Vietnam, namely T. helicorthomorphoides sp. nov. The new species is clearly diagnosed by the gonopodal solenophore completely sheathing the solenomere, both being coiled three times, and the absence of spine z and process h of the gonopod. Fragments of the COI and 16S rRNA genes were extracted, and the phylogenetic analysis also supports the new species.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Order Euryalida (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea), new species and new records from the South China Sea and the Northwest Pacific seamounts
Ophiuroids were collected by the manned submersible ‘Shenhaiyongshi’ from the deep-sea seamounts in the South China Sea and Northwest Pacific regions at 602–1920 m depth, during 2018 to 2020. A total of nine species was identified, including two new species and seven new records from the South China Sea and one new record from the Northwest Pacific region. Two new species are described as Asteroschema shenhaiyongshii sp. nov. and Asteroschema domogranulatum sp. nov. The seven new records included five species from the genus Asteroschema, and one species each from the genera Asterostegus and Astrodendrum. Comprehensive descriptions of morphological features are provided, including characteristics of the arm skeleton, as well as a phylogenetic analysis based on 16S and COI sequences. Intraspecific genetic distance ranges of Euryalida species from the present study were 0.34% to 1.38%, which was relatively low compared to other orders in the class Ophiuroidea. The present study suggests a high probability that species of the order Euryalida are more widely spread around the Indo-Pacific region than previously expected.
["Asteroschema"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Two new species of Squamosa Bethune-Baker, 1908 (Lepidoptera, Limacodidae) and first female record of S. chalcites Orhant, 2000 from southern Asia
Two new species of the genus Squamosa Bethune-Baker, 1908 (Lepidoptera: Limacodidae): S. medogensis sp. nov. and S. undulophallus sp. nov., are described from southern Asia. These new species are illustrated with images of the adults and male genitalia, and compared with similar species. A new synonymy is established for the subspecies S. brevisunca brevisunca Wu & Fang, 2009 = S. svetlanae Solovyev & Witt, 2009, syn. nov. The female genitalia of S. chalcites Orhant, 2000 are illustrated and described for the first time. A distribution map for the new species and illustrations of Asian members of Squamosa are given, and a key to Asian species of the genus is also provided.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿A new Gammarus species from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (China) with a key to Xinjiang freshwater gammarids (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridae)
A new species of the genus Gammarus Fabricius, 1775 is described and illustrated from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. Gammarus zhouqiongi sp. nov. is characterized by pereopods III–IV with long straight setae on posterior margins; inner ramus of uropod III more than twice as long as peduncle, reaching 0.7 times the length of outer ramus; inner ramus with plumose setae, and outer ramus with both plumose setae and long simple setae. Detailed morphological comparisons with related species are discussed. The K2P distances for each marker (CO1, 16S, 28S, and EF1α) of the new species differ from those of other Gammarus species in Xinjiang. Both phylogenetic trees based on separate (CO1, 16S, 28S, and EF1α) and combined (CO1+16S+28S+EF1α) markers show that the new species is an independent branch. A key to identify Gammarus species in Xinjiang is provided.
["Amphipoda diversity"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿Flospes gen. nov. (Orthoptera, Trigonidiidae, Trigonidiinae), a genus of swordtail crickets from China, with two new species and new combinations
We propose the genus Flospes gen. nov. for two new species, Flospes guangxiensis sp. nov. and Flospes viridipennis sp. nov., obtained from Guangxi and Hainan provinces, China, respectively, based on male genitalia traits. Three other species with similar genitalia are placed in the new genus: Flospes fujianensis (Wang et al., 1999), comb. nov., Flospes hainanensis (He et al., 2010), comb. nov., and Flospes denticulatus (Liu & Shi, 2011), comb. nov. The new species are described, illustrated, and their ranges are given.
["Grylloidea"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿A new species and a newly recorded subgenus of Lipotriches Gerstaecker, 1858 (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Halictidae, Nomiinae) from China
Two Chinese species of the genus Lipotriches Gerstaecker, 1858 are treated in this paper. Lipotriches (Lipotriches) guihongi Zhang & Niu, sp. nov. is recognized as a new species and Lipotriches (Maynenomia) nanensis (Cockerell, 1929) is a new species and subgenus record for China. The number of Chinese species of the subfamily Nomiinae and genus Lipotriches are updated to 47 and 15, respectively.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

﻿Two new species of the genus Joeropsis Koehler, 1885 (Isopoda, Asellota, Joeropsididae) from Korean waters
Two new species, Joeropsis denticulatus sp. nov. and Joeropsis semicircularis sp. nov. are reported from South Korea. Joeropsis denticulatus sp. nov. can be identified by the following character states: whole body has dark brown chromatophores dorsally, lateral margins of the cephalon are smooth and narrowing anteriorly, and basis of pereopods has serrated cuticular scales superiorly. Joeropsis semicircularis sp. nov. can be identified by the following character states: the cephalon, pereonite 4, and pleotelson have dark brown chromatophores dorsally, lateral margins of the cephalon are smooth and parallel each other, and flagellar article 1 of the antenna is swollen and semi-circular in shape.
["Isopoda"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

﻿Description of immature stages of Gymnetron species (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Curculioninae), with particular emphasis on the diagnostic morphological characters at the generic and specific levels
The immature stages of the following five Palaearctic Gymnetron species are described for the first time: G. tibiellum Desbrochers des Loges, 1900, G. veronicae (Germar, 1821), G. rotundicolle Gyllenhal, 1838, G. melanarium (Germar, 1821), and G. villosulum Gyllenhal, 1838. These species belong to four different groups previously established according to a phylogenetic analysis: the first two belong to the G. veronicae group and the other three to groups respectively bearing their name (G. rotundicolle, G. melanarium, and G. villosulum groups). All these species exhibit several diagnostic characters distinguishing them from each other. Some characters that can be used to separate Gymnetron from other genera in the tribe are also suggested. Three highly significant characters for the larvae and three for the pupae were identified. For the larvae they are: (1) labial palpi with single palpomeres, (2) all spiracles unicameral, and (3) epipharynx with a single pair of mes or none at all. For the pupae they are: (1) the pronotum with prominent pronotal protuberances, (2) abdominal segment VIII with a conical abdominal protuberance dorsally, and (3) very short or even reduced urogomphi. The species studied here are compared with those Gymnetron species already known and with other genera in the tribe Mecinini. Keys to the larvae and pupae described here are provided. All the characters used for identification are illustrated by photographs or drawings.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

﻿A revision of the genus Ecpyrrhorrhoe Hübner, 1825 from China based on morphology and molecular data, with descriptions of five new species (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Pyraustinae)
The genus Ecpyrrhorrhoe Hübner, 1825 is revised. Most type materials were examined, and a preliminary phylogeny is presented based on a combined dataset of COI, 16S rRNA, 28S rRNA and EF-1α gene regions. The tree topology and morphological characters suggest that Paliga Moore, 1886 is a new synonym of Ecpyrrhorrhoe, and Yezobotys Munroe & Mutuura, 1969 is restored as a valid genus. According to the morphological evidence and tree topology, 17 species are recorded, including five new species described from China: E. allochroa Zhang & Xiang, sp. nov., E. rosisquama Xiang & Zhang, sp. nov., E. exigistria Zhang & Xiang, sp. nov., E. brevis Zhang & Xiang, sp. nov. and E. longispinalis Zhang & Xiang, sp. nov. Seven new combinations are created, E. damastesalis (Walker, 1859), comb. nov., E. minnehaha (Pryer, 1877), comb. nov., E. obliquata (Moore, 1888), comb. nov., E. rufipicta (Butler, 1880), comb. nov., E. fimbriata (Moore, 1886), comb. nov., E. machoeralis (Walker, 1859), comb. nov., and E. rubellalis (Snellen, 1890), comb. nov., as well as eight new synonyms, namely Leucocraspeda auratalis Warren, 1895, syn. nov., Pionea schenklingi Strand, 1918, syn. nov., Paliga rubicundalis Warren, 1896, syn. nov., E. angustivalvaris Gao, Zhang & Wang, 2013, syn. nov., Pyrausta pygmaealis South, 1901, syn. nov., E. multispinalis Gao, Zhang &Wang, 2013, syn. nov., E. aduncis Gao, Zhang & Wang, 2013, syn. nov., and E. ruidispinalis Zhang, Li & Wang, 2004, syn. nov. All adults and their genital structures are illustrated and an identification key based on adult external morphology and genitalia is provided.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Habralictus and Lasioglossum of Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Lesser Antilles (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Halictidae)
The new species and the first halictid bees documented from Saint Lucia Habralictus reinae, Lasioglossum (Dialictus) luciae, and L. (Habralictellus) delphiae are described. A fourth species, L. (D.) dominicense, is tentatively recorded from the island. The species are illustrated and compared to similar ones from the Lesser Antilles. Lasioglossum and Habralictus from neighbouring Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are reviewed and a key to Lasioglossum provided, including the description of another new species, L. (Dialictus) gemmeum. Trigona nigrocyanea Ashmead and Dufourea subcyanea Ashmead are synonymised under Lasioglossum cyaneum (Ashmead). Notes on the obscure Lasioglossum (Dialictus) minutum (Fabricius) are provided. A new name, Lasioglossum (Homalictus) minuens, is provided for a secondary homonym Homalictus minutus Pauly. The potential for additional species richness in Saint Lucia and the Lesser Antilles is briefly discussed.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

﻿Addenda and corrigenda: Gutiérrez N, Toledo-Hernández VH, Noguera FA (2020) Four new species of Phrynidius Lacordaire (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae) from Mexico with an identification key for the genus. ZooKeys 1000: 45–57. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1000.56757
After describing Phrynidius jonesi Gutiérrez, Toledo & Noguera, 2020 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae), the authors had the opportunity to study a conspecific individual of this species and recognize that the holotype had been erroneously determined as a male when in fact it was a female. Here, we rectify this error and provide morphological information for the identification of both sexes. Additionally, we record Phrynidius armatus Linsley, 1933 from Chiapas, Mexico. Finally, we document P. cristinae Gutiérrez et al. 2020 feeding on a fungus, which represents the first record for any species of the genus Phrynidius with this adult feeding habit.

﻿A new species of Suwallia Ricker, 1943 (Plecoptera, Chloroperlidae) from southwestern China, with an updated key to male Suwallia species
A new species of the genus Suwallia Ricker, 1943 (Plecoptera, Chloroperlidae), Suwallia dengba sp. nov., is described from Tibet and Yunnan, southwestern China. A diagnosis and description of the adult habitus and aedeagal structure are illustrated with color images. Similarities in the terminalia with closely related species are discussed. In addition, an updated key to adult males of the Suwallia species of China is provided.
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

﻿A new species of Homatula (Teleostei, Cobitoidea, Nemacheilidae) from the Pearl River drainage, Yunnan, China
Based on morphological and molecular analysis of Homatula species distributed in the Nanpanjiang River in Yunnan, China, we described a new species, Homatula robusta sp. nov. It differs from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: naked and robust body with well-developed crests (caudal peduncle depth as a percentage of its length: 70.5–78.5%); lateral line complete; median notch on lower jaw; median gap on lower lip; three pairs of short barbels, with maxillary barbels extending posteriorly to anterior edge of eyes; branched dorsal-fin rays 8½; and vertebrae 37–39. It can further be distinguished from H. nanpanjiangensis by several differences of the caudal skeleton such as the number of hypural elements, the presence of epurale and the shape of neural and haemal spines. Phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene indicated that the new species represents an independent lineage. It is separated from other Homatula species by a minimum of 5.3% Kimura-2-parameter distance in the COI gene. Furthermore, we confirmed that Homatula wenshanensis should be a member of Homatula based on both skeleton and molecular evidence.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿A new species of anthothelid octocoral (Cnidaria, Alcyonacea) discovered on an algal reef of Taiwan
A molecular phylogenetic analysis of 132 octocoral species reveals a close relationship between specimens collected from the intertidal pools of the Datan Algal Reef, Taoyuan, Taiwan, and Erythropodium caribaeorum (Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1860), but the two species have distinct morphological features. On the basis of morphological differences in polyps and sclerites, we identify and describe a new Erythropodium species: E. taoyuanensis sp. nov. The distinct identifying features of E. taoyuanensis sp. nov. include the upright contractile polyps from thin encrusting membranes and abundant 6-radiate sclerites. Using an integrative approach, we present the findings of morphological comparisons and molecular phylogenetic analyses to demonstrate that E. taoyuanensis sp. nov. is distinct from other Erythropodium species. Our study contributes to the knowledge of octocoral biodiversity in marginal habitats.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

﻿First and second instar larvae and adults of a new Homidia species (Collembola, Entomobryidae) recorded from Xizang Autonomous Region with three new records
Three new recorded species of genus Homidia were collected from Xizang Autonomous Region, China, in the present paper. Among them, a new species, Homidia breviseta Pan, sp. nov., is included in the present paper. This new species can be identified by having a single uninterrupted dark band on central thoracic segment III; 14 macrochaetae on abdominal segment I and seven on the posterior central abdominal segment IV (half segment); and very short bothriotricha on abdominal segments II–IV. It can be easily discriminated from similar species of Homidia by its colour pattern, chaetotaxy of the labium, and abdominal segments I and IV. The chaetotaxy of the first and second instar larvae of this new species and a key to four species of genus Homidia from Xizang are also provided.
["Entomobryini"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

﻿Parasitic crustaceans (Branchiura and Copepoda) parasitizing the gills of puffer fish species (Tetraodontidae) from the coast of Campeche, Gulf of Mexico
New information on the marine parasitic crustaceans from the Campeche coast, Gulf of Mexico (GoM), can improve our baseline knowledge of the ecology of both the host and parasite by providing, for example, parameters of infection. Such knowledge is especially important for fish farming, so that appropriate quarantine measures can be established. Our aim was to morphologically identify the parasitic crustaceans infecting puffer fish of commercial importance in the coastal zone of Campeche, Mexico. We provide new information on four known species of parasitic crustaceans from 92 specimens representing five species of tetraodontid fish. The parasitic crustaceans Argulus sp. (Branchiura, Argulidae), Caligus haemulonis (Caligidae), Pseudochondracanthus diceraus (Chondracanthidae), and Taeniacanthus lagocephali (Taeniacanthidae) (all Copepoda) were found on Lagocephalus laevigatus, Sphoeroides nephelus, S. parvus, S. spengleri, and S. testudineus. This study revealed the occurrence of P. diceraus, which is of importance in aquaculture, on Sphoeroides annulatus in the Mexican Pacific. Additionally, our results and other documentary records provide the first evidence of the interoceanic occurrence of the same parasitic crustacean species in the south-southwest of Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean. Moreover, our study provides valuable information on the biodiversity of parasitic crustaceans present in the GoM on puffer fish which are of great commercial importance for human consumption, fisheries, and aquaculture.
["Argulidae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿A new genus of minute stingless bees from Southeast Asia (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
A new genus of minute stingless bees (Meliponini: Hypotrigonina) is described from Southeast Asia. Ebaiotrigona Engel & Nguyen, gen. nov., is based on the type species Lisotrigona carpenteri Engel, recorded from Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and southern China. The species was previously considered an enigmatic member of Lisotrigona Moure, but is removed to a new genus based on its unique male terminalia that differs considerably from that of Lisotrigona and instead shares resemblances with Austroplebeia Moure, and the presence of yellow maculation (also similar to that of Austroplebeia). It is possible that Ebaiotrigona is the extant sister group of Austroplebeia, but this requires confirmation by future phylogenetic analyses. Based on available biological observations, Ebaiotrigona carpenteri could not be confirmed as lachryphagous as is well documented from the tear-drinking species of Lisotrigona and Pariotrigona Moure.
["Apoidea"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿The complete mitochondrial genome of the Mexican-endemic cavefish Ophisternon infernale (Synbranchiformes, Synbranchidae): insights on patterns of selection and implications for synbranchiform phylogenetics
Ophisternon infernale is one of the 200+ troglobitic fish species worldwide, and one of the two cave-dwelling fishes endemic to the karstic aquifer of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. Because of its elusive nature and the relative inaccessibility of its habitat, there is virtually no genetic information on this enigmatic fish. Herein we report the complete mitochondrial genome of O. infernale, which overall exhibits a configuration comparable to that of other synbranchiforms as well as of more distantly related teleosts. The KA/KS ratio indicates that most mtDNA PCGs in synbranchiforms have evolved under strong purifying selection, preventing major structural and functional protein changes. The few instances of PCGs under positive selection might be related to adaptation to decreased oxygen availability. Phylogenetic analysis of mtDNA comparative data from synbranchiforms and closely related taxa (including the indostomid Indostomus paradoxus) corroborate the notion that indostomids are more closely related to synbranchiforms than to gasterosteoids, but without rendering the former paraphyletic. Our phylogenetic results also suggest that New World species of Ophisternon might be more closely related to Synbranchus than to the remaining Ophisternon species. This novel phylogenetic hypothesis, however, should be further tested in the context of a comprehensive systematic study of the group.
["Blind swamp eel"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿New species of Urodeta Stainton, 1869 (Lepidoptera, Elachistidae, Elachistinae) from Ghana and Democratic Republic of the Congo, with identification keys to the Afrotropical species of the genus
Two new species, Urodeta falcata sp. nov. from Ghana and U. bisigna sp. nov. from Democratic Republic of the Congo are described. The habitus and genitalia are diagnosed and illustrated in detail. Identification keys to the Afrotropical species of the genus Urodeta, based on male and female genitalia, are provided.
["Microlepidoptera"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿Embioptera (Insecta) from Brazil: New species and a taxonomic update
Eight new species of Embioptera from Brazil are described, diagnosed, and illustrated. For Anisembiidae: Chelicerca achilata Szumik, Pereyra & Juárez, sp. nov.; Saussurembia borba Szumik, Pereyra & Juárez, sp. nov. For Archembiidae: Archembia oruma Szumik, sp. nov.; Embolyntha oriximina Szumik, Pereyra & Juárez, sp. nov.; Pararhagadochir bonita Szumik, Pereyra & Juárez, sp. nov., Pararhagadochir marielleae Szumik, Pereyra & Juárez, sp. nov.; Pararhagadochir para Szumik, Pereyra & Juárez, sp. nov. For Clothodidae: Chromatoclothoda langa Szumik, Pereyra & Juárez, sp. nov. To clarify the higher classification of the Order and to have an accurate taxonomy, a species catalog and introduction to the four families present in Brazil is also detailed, including phylogenetic relationships, taxonomic actions, composition, distributions, and records maps. Herein, several taxonomic acts are proposed: (1) the synonymy of Chelicerca Ross (= Dactylocerca Ross confirmed junior synonym; = Schizembia Ross syn nov.; = Pelorembia Ross, confirmed junior synonym; = Cryptembia Ross, syn. nov.) and Saussurembia Davis (= Stenembia Ross, syn. nov.). (2) new status and delimitation for family Archembiidae Ross, stat. rev.; subfamily Archembiinae Ross, stat. rev.; subfamily Pachylembiinae stat. rev.; subfamily Scelembiinae stat. rev., and their genera included. (3) Diradius unicolor (Ross) (Teratembiidae) comb. nov., and (4) new locality records for previously cited species in the region.
["Amazonia"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Three new species of the genus Metapocyrtus Heller 1912, subgenus Orthocyrtus Heller 1912 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae, Pachyrhynchini), from Mindanao Island, Philippines
Three new species of genus Metapocyrtus Heller, 1912, subgenus Orthocyrtus Heller, 1912 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae, Pachyrhynchini) from Mindanao Island, Philippines are described: M. (O.) regalis sp. nov., M. (O.) tboli sp. nov., and M. (O.) reagani sp. nov. Photographs of their habitus and male genitalia are presented.
["Archipelago"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

﻿New psychropotid species (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea, Elasipodida) of the Western Pacific with phylogenetic analyses
Holothurians of the family Psychropotidae are widely distributed but remain the least studied deep-sea holothurians. On an expedition to the Western Pacific, six psychropotid specimens were collected by the Jiaolong Human Operated Vehicle (HOV). Through morphological examination, four of them were identified as a new species, Benthodytes jiaolongi sp. nov., which was characterized as having minute papillae, a narrow brim, and a terminal anus; and the ossicles were rods and primary crosses. The remaining two specimens were identified as Psychropotes verrucicaudatus Xiao, Gong, Kou & Li, 2019, first recorded at the Kyushu-Palau Ridge. The phylogenetic analysis showed that B. jiaolongi sp. nov. and P. verrucicaudatus were embedded in the clades Benthodytes and Psycheotrephes, respectively, and that Benthodytes was paraphyletic. The new species clustered with Benthodytes sanguinolenta and was separated from the clade containing the other Benthodytes species.
["Benthodytes"]

﻿Two new species of feather mites (Acariformes, Astigmata) from the black-tailed godwit, Limosa limosa (Charadriiformes, Scolopacidae), in Korea
Two new species of feather mites are described from two individuals of the black-tailed godwit, Limosa limosa (Linnaeus, 1758), in Korea: Alloptes (Conuralloptes) neolimosae sp. nov. (Analgoidea, Alloptidae) and Phyllochaeta limosae sp. nov. (Pterolichoidea, Syringobiidae). Males of A. (C.) neolimosae sp. nov. are distinguished from A. (C.) limosae in having the hysteronotal shield with a straight anterior margin, setae h2 enlarged and slightly flattened in the basal half, and the terminal lamella monotonously transparent without sclerotized patches; females differ in having legs IV with ambulacral discs extending to or slightly beyond the level of setae f2. The discovery of P. limosae sp. nov. represents the first record of the feather mite genus Phyllochaeta on godwits of the genus Limosa Brisson, 1760 (Scolopacidae, Limosinae). Males of P. limosae sp. nov. are distinguished from P. secunda in having the terminal cleft semi-ovoid with a length-to-width ratio of 1.7, and the terminal membranes with 15 or 16 finger-shaped denticles; females differ in having the hysteronotal shield bearing faint longitudinal striations in the posterior third and lacking lacunae, and setae c1 situated posterior to the level of setae c2. Additionally, we obtained partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene from A. (C.) neolimosae sp. nov. and estimated genetic distances from 10 other Alloptes species based on comparisons of COI sequences.
["Alloptes"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿Cirrhilabrus finifenmaa (Teleostei, Labridae), a new species of fairy wrasse from the Maldives, with comments on the taxonomic identity of C. rubrisquamis and C. wakanda
Cirrhilabrus rubrisquamis is redescribed on the basis of the juvenile holotype and compared to known species of Cirrhilabrus. Examination of material from the Maldives identified as C. rubrisquamis reveal differences from the holotype collected from the Chagos Archipelago. Consequently, the Maldivian specimens are herein described as Cirrhilabrus finifenmaa sp. nov., on the basis of the holotype and twelve paratypes. The new species differs from all congeners in having: males with anterior third to half of body bright magenta, peach to orange-pink posteriorly; lateral line with 22–26 pored scales (16–18 in the dorso-anterior series, 6–8 in the posterior peduncular series); tenth to eleventh dorsal-fin spine longest (14.0–15.5% SL); scales on the opercle, chest, isthmus, and anterior third of the body with a dark purple-red central region (purple in alcohol), the markings joining appearing crosshatched; dorsal, caudal, anal, and pelvic-fin rays purple in alcohol. Meristic details and coloration patterns of C. rubrisquamis are very similar to C. wakanda from Tanzania, Africa, although synonymy of both species cannot be determined without additional material from Chagos. This potential synonymy is briefly discussed; however, until such material becomes available, the taxonomic statuses of C. wakanda and C. rubrisquamis are here provisionally regarded as valid.
["Coral reefs"]

﻿A new species of Diplatys (Insecta, Dermaptera, Diplatyidae) earwig from the Western Ghats of India
To explore diversity of earwigs (Dermaptera) in different agricultural ecosystems of South India, an extensive taxonomic survey was conducted in 2020 during which an undescribed species of Diplatys was collected. Twenty-one species of the genus Diplatys (Diplatyidae, Diplatyinae) have been reported to date from India, of which six species are known from Karnataka, South India. Based on a male specimen collected from a sugarcane field in Karnataka, a new species, Diplatys sahyadriensis sp. nov., is described as the twenty-second species of this genus from India. A revised key to the males of Diplatys species from India and Sri Lanka is provided. This new record adds to the known species diversity in the Sahyadri Ranges of the Western Ghats in Shivamogga District, Karnataka, part of the Southern Plateau and Hills agro-climatic region of India.
["Diplatys sahyadriensis sp. nov."]

﻿The revalidation of Otostigmus (O.) lewisi Song et al., 2005 (Scolopendromorpha, Scolopendridae) based on new material from Jiacha County, China
Otostigmus (O.) lewisi Song et al., 2005 was described from sub-adult specimens from Jiacha County (Xizang, China), but was synonymized by Lewis (2010) with the Nepalese species O. (O.) beroni Lewis, 2001. The latter was also recorded from Jilong County (Xizang, China) by Song et al. (2005). Following a comparison of O. (O.) beroni from Jilong County with new materials of O. (O.) lewisi from Jiacha County, we reaffirm that O. (O.) lewisi is a valid species.
["Centipede"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

﻿Molecular phylogeny of Nipponacmea (Patellogastropoda, Lottiidae) from Japan: a re-evaluation of species taxonomy and morphological diagnosis
The patellogastropod limpet genus Nipponacmea is widely distributed in Japan and adjacent East Asia. Species identification within Nipponacmea is challenging due to the high variation in shell morphology. In this study, we examined the taxonomy of this genus represented by nine nominal species from 43 localities (including type localities). Results of the molecular phylogenetic analysis revealed that: (1) N. gloriosa, the sole species in this genus inhabiting the subtidal zone, represents the most basal independent branch; (2) the remaining species are divided into two large clades with lower- and higher-apex shell profiles; and (3) the high-apex morphology was derived from the low-apex type. The terminal clades defined using the molecular data were consistent with nine morphospecies and had 100% bootstrap values, strongly supporting the conventional taxonomy of Nipponacmea. Although morphological similarities do not always reflect phylogeny, the set of morphological characters used in the current taxonomy were proven to be adequate for diagnosis. In conclusion, this study provided solid evidence to uphold the monophyly of known species of Nipponacmea in Japan and demonstrated the usefulness of morphological characters for species diagnosis.
["Lottiidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Comparative mitogenomic analysis of two earwigs (Insecta, Dermaptera) and the preliminary phylogenetic implications
The phylogenetic position and inner relationships of Dermaptera remain unresolved despite the numerous efforts using morphological and molecular data. To facilitate the resolution of problems, this study sequenced the complete mitogenome of Apachyus feae de Bormans, 1894 (Apachyidae) and the nearly complete mitogenome of Diplatys flavicollis Shiraki, 1907 (Diplatyidae). The 19,029-bp long mitogenome of A. feae exhibited an extra trnV gene and two control regions in addition to the typical set of 37 genes including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The 12,950-bp long partially sequenced mitogenome of D. flavicollis was composed of 10 and a partial fragment of PCGs, 18 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes, and a control region. Comparative analysis of available earwig mitogenomes revealed variable mitogenomic structure and extensive gene rearrangements in Dermaptera. The preliminary phylogenetic analyses using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood methods showed identical results, but the limited sampling and different types of molecular data lead to an apparent incongruence with previous phylogenetic studies.
["Apachyidae"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Redescription of Tylos maindroni Giordani Soika, 1954 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) based on SEM and molecular data
The woodlouse species Tylos maindroni Giordani Soika, 1954 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) is redescribed from the Persian Gulf based on light and scanning electron microscopy. This species differs from the closely related T. exiguus Stebbing, 1910, from the Red Sea (coasts of Sudan and Eritrea), and Socotra Island, by pereopod 1 superior margin without a prominent projection and pleopod 2 endopod 2.3 times as long as exopod, vs. 3.6 in T. exiguus. A distribution map for T. maindroni is provided. In addition, we studied the molecular differentiation of five populations of T. maindroni from the Persian Gulf, based on partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences. The results revealed low levels of population structuring between the analyzed populations.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Revision of Neotropical Scythrididae moths and descriptions of 22 new species from Argentina, Chile, and Peru (Lepidoptera, Gelechioidea)
The taxonomy of South American Scythrididae (Lepidoptera: Gelechioidea) is revised, based on external morphology, genitalia, male abdominal segment VIII, and DNA barcodes using genetic distances, BINs, and a tentative molecular phylogeny. Data include both historical and fresh specimens from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Peru. Thirty-four species are recognised as valid, and the fauna classified in three genera. Type specimens and morphology of all species are described and figured in detail. DNA barcode sequences of the COI gene were successful for 22 species, the average genetic divergence between species being 5.1%. A key to Neotropical Scythrididae species is provided, based on the male genitalia and abdominal segment VIII, which show most and easily accessible interspecific differences. Our study revealed that the Scythridae fauna of South America is more or less completely unknown. As a result, 22 new species are described, increasing the number of South American Scythrididae species from 13 to 34. All new species are authored by Kari Nupponen (incertae sedis means the genus combination is uncertain and needs further research, country of the type locality is given in parentheses): Rhamphura subdimota sp. nov. (Argentina), R. pozohondaensis sp. nov. (Argentina), R. spiniuncus sp. nov. (Argentina), R. angulisociella sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina), R. curvisociella sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina), R. tetrafasciella sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina), Landryia ankylosauroides sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina), L. chilensis sp. nov. incertae sedis (Chile), Scythris directiphallella sp. nov. (Argentina), S. furciphallella sp. nov. (Argentina), S. manchaoensis sp. nov. (Argentina), S. salinasgrandensis sp. nov. (Argentina), S. angustivalvella sp. nov. (Argentina), S. caimancitoensis sp. nov. (Argentina), S. lequetepequensis sp. nov. (Peru), S. sanfriscoensis sp. nov. (Argentina), S. tigrensis sp. nov. (Argentina), S. bicoloristrigella sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina), S. saldaitisi sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina), S. wikstromi sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina), S. andensis sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina), S. mendozaensis sp. nov. incertae sedis (Argentina). The following new combinations are proposed: Scythris depressa Meyrick, 1931 and Scythris dimota Meyrick, 1931 are transferred from Scythris Hübner, 1825 to Rhamphura Landry, 1991 comb. nov. Three species classified in Scythris earlier are now classified as Scythris (incertae sedis): Scythris dividua Meyrick, 1916, S. medullata Meyrick, 1916 and S. notorrhoa Meyrick, 1921. The taxon Syntetrernis neocompsa Meyrick, 1933, recently classified in Scythrididae: Scythris, is excluded from Scythrididae and it is now classified in Cosmopterigidae incertae sedis.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Redescription of the giant Southeast Asian millipede Spirobolus macrurus Pocock, 1893 and its assignment to the new genus Macrurobolus gen. nov. (Diplopoda, Spirobolida, Pachybolidae)
A new genus of the millipede family Pachybolidae from Southeast Asia is described: Macrurobolus gen. nov., with Spirobolus macrurus Pocock, 1893 as type species. This latter species is DNA barcoded (COI) and redescribed based on male morphological characters, which hitherto were unknown. The new genus differs from other pachybolid genera by having (1) the preanal ring process long and protruding beyond the anal valves and (2) the anterior gonopod telopodite distally abruptly narrowed, forming an extremely long, slender, elevated process curved caudad. Given that Macrurobolus gen. nov. is a monotypic genus, it is aphyletic and thus requires further taxonomic revision.
["Aphyly"]

﻿Phylogenomics of paleoendemic lampshade spiders (Araneae, Hypochilidae, Hypochilus), with the description of a new species from montane California
Hypochilus is a relictual lineage of Nearctic spiders distributed disjunctly across the United States in three montane regions (California, southern Rocky Mountains, southern Appalachia). Phylogenetic resolution of species relationships in Hypochilus has been challenging, and conserved morphology coupled with extreme genetic divergence has led to uncertain species limits in some complexes. Here, Hypochilus interspecies relationships have been reconstructed and cryptic speciation more critically evaluated using a combination of ultraconserved elements, mitochondrial CO1 by-catch, and morphology. Phylogenomic data strongly support the monophyly of regional clades and support a ((California, Appalachia), southern Rocky Mountains) topology. In Appalachia, five species are resolved as four lineages (H. thorelli Marx, 1888 and H. coylei Platnick, 1987 are clearly sister taxa), but the interrelationships of these four lineages remain unresolved. The Appalachian species H. pococki Platnick, 1987 is recovered as monophyletic but is highly genetically structured at the nuclear level. While algorithmic analyses of nuclear data indicate many species (e.g., all H. pococki populations as species), male morphology instead reveals striking stasis. Within the California clade, nuclear and mitochondrial lineages of H. petrunkevitchi Gertsch, 1958 correspond directly to drainage basins of the southern Sierra Nevada, with H. bernardino Catley, 1994 nested within H. petrunkevitchi and sister to the southernmost basin populations. Combining nuclear, mitochondrial, geographical, and morphological evidence a new species from the Tule River and Cedar Creek drainages is described, Hypochilus xomote sp. nov. We also emphasize the conservation issues that face several microendemic, habitat-specialized species in this remarkable genus.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Island hoppers: Integrative taxonomic revision of Hogna wolf spiders (Araneae, Lycosidae) endemic to the Madeira islands with description of a new species
Because of their ability for aerial dispersal using silk and preference for open habitats, many wolf spiders are formidable colonisers. Pioneering arachnologists were already aware of the large and colourful wolf spiders in the Madeira archipelago, currently included in the genus Hogna Simon, 1885. The origins were investigated and species boundaries of Madeiran Hogna examined by integrating target-gene and morphological information. A multi-locus phylogenetic analysis of a thorough sampling across wolf-spider diversity suggested a single origin of Madeiran endemics, albeit with low support. Divergence time estimation traced back their origin to the late Miocene, a time of major global cooling that drove the expansion of grasslands and the associated fauna. Morphological examination of types and newly collected material revealed a new species, hereby described as H. isambertoi Crespo, sp. nov. Additionally, H. blackwalli is revalidated and three new synonymies are proposed, namely H. biscoitoi Wunderlich, 1992, junior synonym of H. insularum Kulczynski, 1899, H. schmitzi Wunderlich, 1992, junior synonym of H. maderiana (Walckenaer, 1837), and Arctosa maderana Roewer, 1960 junior synonym of H. ferox (Lucas, 1838). Species delimitation analyses of mitochondrial and nuclear markers provided additional support for morphological delineations. The species pair H. insularum and H. maderiana, however, constituted an exception: the lack of exclusive haplotypes in the examined markers, along with the discovery of intermediate forms, pointed to hybridisation between these two species as reported in other congeneric species on islands. Finally, the conservation status of the species is discussed and candidates for immediate conservation efforts are identified.
["Endangered species"]

﻿A review of the genus Laeocathaica Möllendorff, 1899 (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Camaenidae)
In this paper an overview of the Laeocathaica species is provided, and the intraspecific variability of several Laeocathaica species demonstrated on multiple shells. Laeocathaica hisanoi Páll-Gergely, sp. nov. and L. minwui Páll-Gergely, sp. nov. are described based on specimens found in museum collections. Five new synonyms are recognized: L. prionotropis albocincta Möllendorff, 1899 is a new synonym of L. prionotropis Möllendorff, 1899, L. stenochone Möllendorff, 1899 is a new synonym of Laeocathaica carinifera (H. Adams, 1870). Laeocathaica distinguenda Möllendorff, 1899, L. tropidorhaphe Möllendorff, 1899, and L. dangchangensis Chen & Zhang, 2004 are moved to the synonymy of Laeocathaica amdoana Möllendorff, 1899. Furthermore, photos of paratypes of Cathaica bizonalis Chen & Zhang, 2004 are published for the first time.
["Intraspecific variability"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Revision of the “ Chloritis delibrata (Benson, 1836)” group (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Camaenidae)
Chloritis delibrata (Benson, 1836), known from northeastern India, was believed to have three varietal forms, sometimes mentioned as subspecies: C. delibrata var. khasiensis (Nevill, 1877) and C. delibrata var. fasciata (Godwin-Austen, 1875) from the Khasi Hills, India, and C. delibrata var. procumbens (Gould, 1844) from Dawei in Myanmar. The reproductive anatomy of the latter form is known and does not match with those of any continental camaenid genera, but does with that of the newly examined Chloritis platytropis Möllendorff, 1894 from Thailand. The latter species is conchologically similar to Bouchetcamaena huberi Thach, 2018 (synonym of Helix fouresi Morlet, 1886), which is the type species of the genus Bouchetcamaena Thach, 2018. Thus, Bouchetcamaena can provisionally host the entire Chloritis delibrata -group with the exception of var. fasciata, which is transferred to Burmochloritis Godwin-Austen, 1920 due to the multiple reddish bands on its shell. The examination of shells deposited in the Natural History Museum, London revealed that seven morphologically distinguishable forms are present, which are accepted here as representing distinct species. Four new species are described from India: Bouchetcamaena foveata Páll-Gergely sp. nov., B. fusca Páll-Gergely sp. nov., B. raripila Páll-Gergely sp. nov., and B. subdelibrata Páll-Gergely sp. nov.
["Bouchetcamaena"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Kidney Stones and Urolithiasis Treatments"]

﻿A new ghost shrimp of the genus Pugnatrypaea (Decapoda, Axiidea, Callianassidae) from the South China Sea
A new species of the genus Pugnatrypaea Poore, Dworschak, Robles, Mantelatto & Felder, 2019, Pugnatrypaea ruiyui sp. nov., collected from the northern South China Sea, is described and illustrated. It is distinguishable from P. pugnatrix (de Man, 1905), P. iranica (Sepahvand, Momtazi & Tudge, 2015), and P. emanata Felder & Robles, 2020 in having the lower margin of the male major cheliped merus lacking a proximal hook. It is distinguishable from P. intermedia (de Man, 1905) and P. lobetobensis (de Man, 1905) in having the upper margins of both cheliped meri unarmed. A key to all species of Pugnatrypaea is provided.
["Chinese waters"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿Integrative taxonomy reveals overlooked cryptic diversity in the conifer feeding Batrachedra pinicolella (Zeller, 1839) (Lepidoptera, Batrachedridae)
During efforts to generate DNA barcodes for all European Lepidoptera, Batrachedra pinicolella (Zeller, 1839) was found to comprise two genetically distinct clusters. Morphological investigation and results from two nuclear markers and ddRAD sequencing furthermore support the existence of two distinct taxa which we treat as two separate species, B. pinicolella and B. confusella sp. nov. A lectotype for B. pinicolella is designated. Available data indicate that the biology of both species also differs, with Picea abies (L.) Karsten as a proved host-plant for B. pinicolella and Pinus sylvestris L. for B. confusella sp. nov. Both species are mainly distributed on the European continent with B. pinicolella occurring in boreal parts of North and Central Europe and introduced to Canada, reflecting a boreo-montane distribution pattern. Batrachedra confusella sp. nov. is more widely distributed in temperate Northern and Central Europe.
["Boreo-montane"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿The South American moth Rheumaptera mochica (Dognin, 1904) (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae) rediscovered after more than a century of anonymity
Rheumaptera mochica (Dognin, 1904) (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae) is reported from Chile for the first time. It was described from the western slopes of the Andes of southern Peru more than 100 years ago, and was recently rediscovered in Chile after larvae were collected and reared on the shrub Senna birostris var. arequipensis (Meyen ex Vogel) H.S. Irwin & Barneby (Fabaceae). This discovery expands the known distribution of this moth and provides its first host plant record. The genitalia of R. mochica are described and illustrated for the first time and compared to those of R. affirmata (Guenée, [1858]). A maximum likelihood analysis based on mitochondrial DNA sequences clustered R. mochica as sister to R. affirmata with 3.6–3.8% divergence (K2P). A lectotype is designated for Calocalpe mochica Dognin, 1904.

﻿Taxonomic notes on the genus Phrynarachne from China (Araneae, Thomisidae)
Four new species of the genus Phrynarachne Thorell, 1869 from China are described: P. dreepy Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. xuxiake Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. yunhui Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♀), and P. zhengzhongi Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♀). The unknown sexes of P. brevis Tang & S. Li, 2010 (♂), P. huangshanensis Li et al., 1985 (♀), P. lancea Tang & S. Li, 2010 (♂), and P. mammillata Song, 1990 (♀) are described for the first time. Phrynarachne sinensis Peng, Yin & Kim is treated as a nomen dubium.
["Diagnosis"]

﻿Xenia konohana sp. nov. (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Alcyonacea), a new soft coral species in the family Xeniidae from Miyazaki, Japan
A new soft coral species, Xenia konohana sp. nov. (Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), is described from Miyazaki in the warm-temperate region of Japan. This new species has conspicuous and unique spindle sclerites in addition to the simple ellipsoid platelet-shaped sclerites typically found in the genus Xenia. These unique spindles are a specific key morphological characteristic for this new species and for differentiating this species among congeneric species.
["Alcyonacea"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Xenos yangi sp. nov.: A new twisted-wing parasite species (Strepsiptera, Xenidae) from Gaoligong Mountains, Southwest China
Here we report a new twisted-wing parasite species of the family Xenidae based on both morphological and molecular evidence. By using nearly complete mitogenomes, we confirmed the twisted-wing parasites on two wasps (Vespa velutina and Vespa bicolor) (China: Yunnan) as the same species, and associated its neotenic females and alate males. Combining the mitogenomic data (COI) and morphological traits, this species was identified to be a new species of the genus Xenos, namely Xenos yangi Dong, Liu & Li, sp. nov. Detailed descriptions and illustrations are provided for the new species.
["Mitogenome"]

﻿The genus Erhaia (Gastropoda, Truncatelloidea, Amnicolidae), with a new species from Bhutan
The distribution of the five Erhaia (Gastropoda, Truncatelloidea, Amnicolidae) species that are diagnosed by both morphological and molecular data is combined with several records of less completely diagnosed nominal Erhaia species. The resulting distribution pattern is summarized in a map and is discussed herein. Erhaia norbui sp. nov. is described from Bhutan on the basis of shell morphology and two mitochondrial DNA barcoding markers. A molecular phylogeny is presented for the five Erhaia species for which molecular data are available, three of which form a separate clade and are from Bhutan.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿The Oriental millipede genus Nepalella Shear, 1979, with the description of a new species from Thailand and an updated key (Diplopoda, Chordeumatida, Megalotylidae)
The Oriental genus Nepalella is reviewed, rediagnosed and shown to comprise 28 species, including N. siamensis sp. nov. from southeastern Thailand. All Nepalella species are keyed, and their distributions mapped, being highly localized and mainly allopatric. Unlike most congeners, which are largely confined to subtropical environments (including montane to high-montane conditions, up to 3800 m a.s.l.) or karst caves (eight species, all in southern China alone), the new species is the southernmost in the distribution area of the entire genus, also being among the very few (four) that are restricted to lowland, purely tropical habitats.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿First report of the genus Tenuibaetis (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Thailand revealing a complex of cryptic species
A new species of the genus Tenuibaetis Kang & Yang, 1994 is described from Thailand and the genus is reported for the first time from this country. Tenuibaetis panhai sp. nov. is easily distinguished from other known Tenuibaetis by the complete absence of hindwing pads. Molecular evidence based on COI confirmed the validity of the new species. Additional putative species of Tenuibaetis based on molecular evidence only are considered as Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) without description. The morphological characters of the new species and its closely related species are discussed; a key to the Oriental species is provided.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿A striking color variation is detected in Ponera testacea Emery, 1895 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) across its Western Palaearctic geographic range
In this paper, we provide numeric morphology-based evidence that the dark-colored Ponera coarctata var. lucida Emery, 1898, formerly considered a synonym of P. coarctata (Latreille, 1802), is conspecific with the lighter-colored Ponera testacea Emery, 1895. Species hypotheses are developed via NC-PART clustering, combined with Partitioning Algorithm based on Recursive Thresholding (PART), and via PCA combined with gap statistics. We obtained our results from an extensive dataset from the 10 continuous morphometric traits measured on 165 workers belonging to 73 nest samples. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) confirmed the grouping of hypotheses generated by exploratory analyses with 100% classification success when all ten morphometric traits were involved. The Anatolian Turkish black and the predominantly European yellow samples, did not separate based on their morphometric characteristics. These two color variations broadly overlap in their geographic range in Anatolian Turkey. The investigated type series of Ponera coarctata var. lucida Emery, 1898 (collected from Kazakhstan) fell within the P. testacea cluster instead of P. coarctata and is also classified with high certainty as P. testacea by confirmatory LDA. Therefore, we propose the synonymy of Ponera coarctata var. lucida Emery, 1898 with Ponera testacea Emery, 1895. As no other morphological differences than color patterns were detected between the “black” and “pale” P. testacea samples, we hold that these populations constitute geographically occurring color variations of the same species. Finally, our quantitative morphology-based results show that relying on color patterns is not a robust approach in identifying European Ponera samples, particularly in the east, but using multivariate analyses of morphometric traits is advised instead.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿Calotheca nigromaculata species-group from sub-Saharan Africa with descriptions of two new species from KwaZulu-Natal (Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
Calotheca Heyden is a flea beetle genus with a largely sub-Saharan distribution and currently comprising 34 species. The examination of new material is revealing an increase in species richness and intraspecific variability. Calotheca carolineae sp. nov. and C. wanati sp. nov., both from KwaZulu-Natal in the Republic of South Africa, are here described and attributed to the C. nigromaculata (Jacoby) species group, mainly based on genitalic characters. Photographs of the main diagnostic characters are provided, including the habitus, median lobe of the aedeagus, and spermatheca. Information on the geographic distribution and host plants of these species is also provided.

﻿Taxonomy of Landrevus species group of Velarifictorus Randell, 1964 (Orthoptera, Gryllidae, Gryllinae) with one new species and morphological diversity of Velarifictorus flavifrons Chopard, 1966
The Landrevus species group includes four Velarifictorus species that are related to Landrevinae crickets (Velarifictorus elephas Gorochov, 1992, Velarifictorus bubalus Gorochov, 1992, Velarifictorus gradifrons Ingrisch, 1998, and Velarifictorus landrevus Ma, Qiao & Zhang, 2019). A new species of the group is discovered in the Yunnan Province of China, and it is described and illustrated here. Velarifictorus yunnanensis Liu & Yin, 1993 is recognized as a junior synonym of Velarifictorus flavifrons Chopard, 1966. The morphological variety of V. flavifrons ectoparamere is documented and studied.
["Calling song"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

﻿A new species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from southwestern Yunnan, China
A new species of the Cyrtodactylus chauquangensis species group is described based on four specimens collected from the karst formations of Menglian County, Puer City, Yunnan Province, China. The new species can be separated from all other congeners by having a unique combination of morphological characters: a medium-sized body; ventrolateral folds present with interspersed small tubercles; seven precloacal pores in a continuous series in males, absent in females; enlarged femoral scales and femoral pores absent; two postcloacal tubercles on each side; and one or two rows of enlarged subcaudals. Genetically, the new species most closely related to C. wayakonei and the uncorrected sequence divergences of the ND2 gene and its flanking tRNAs between the new species and investigated congeners range from 7.2% to 18.4%.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

﻿First records of two genera and thirteen species of Tabanidae (Diptera) from Honduras
This works presents information on the diversity of the Tabanidae of Honduras as a product of the examination of 386 specimens and a literature review. Thirteen species and two genera (Bolbodimyia and Dasychela) are recorded from the country for the first time. Eighty-five species distributed in 22 genera, five tribes, and three subfamilies are now known from Honduras. A key to the subfamilies, tribes, and genera of the known Honduran species is also included. All new records are mapped and illustrated to aid in the identification of the species.
["Central America"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿Battle of the bands: systematics and phylogeny of the white Goniobranchus nudibranchs with marginal bands (Nudibranchia, Chromodorididae)
Species identities of Goniobranchus nudibranchs with white bodies and various marginal bands have long been problematic. In this study, specimens of these Goniobranchus nudibranchs from the Philippines, Peninsular Malaysia, Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Madagascar were analyzed and molecular data were obtained in order to re-examine the relationships between species within this “white Goniobranchus with marginal bands” group. The analyses clearly recovered six species groups corresponding to the described species Goniobranchus albonares, G. preciosus, G. rubrocornutus, G. sinensis, and G. verrieri as well as one new species, G. fabulus Soong & Gosliner, sp. nov. Notably, G. preciosus, G. sinensis, G. rubrocornutus, G. verrieri, and G. fabulus Soong & Gosliner, sp. nov. exhibit color variation and polymorphism, suggesting that some aspects of color patterns (e.g., presence or absence of dorsal spots) may not always be useful in the identification of species in the “white Goniobranchus with marginal bands” group, whereas other features such as gill and rhinophore colors and the arrangement and colors of the mantle marginal bands are more diagnostic for each species.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿DNA barcoding of the leaf-miner flies (Diptera, Agromyzidae) of Mitaraka, French Guiana
Species level identification of Agromyzidae based on morphology is often challenging due to their small size and morphological homogeneity. DNA barcoding has been used regularly to assist with the identification of economically important species of Agromyzidae, but rarely as a tool for species delineation or identification in biodiversity surveys. The main objective of this study was to investigate whether DNA barcoding and the BIN (Barcoding Index) system could assist with species identification, species delineation, male/ female association, and diversity assessment of Agromyzidae material previously determined to morphospecies from Mitaraka, French Guiana. Amplification success was low, with sequences over 400 bp recovered for only 24 (48%) of the selected specimens. Sequences assigned to 17 morphospecies formed 16 distinct branches or clusters separated by very high (minimum of 10%) sequence divergence. Following the reassessment and subsequent reassignment of one specimen, congruence between morphology and DNA barcodes was high with a single instance of two morphospecies sharing identical sequences. While DNA barcoding did not assist with identification (none of our sequences matched those of named taxa in BOLD or GenBank), it did provide support for most of our morphospecies concepts, including male/female associations. The BIN system also provided access to information about the distribution and habitat preferences of several taxa. We conclude that DNA barcoding was a useful approach to study the species diversity of our samples but that much work remains to be done before it can be used as an identification tool for the Agromyzidae fauna of Mitaraka and the rest of the Neotropical region.

﻿A new species of Asiatic shrew of the genus Chodsigoa (Soricidae, Eulipotyphla, Mammalia) from the Dabie Mountains, Anhui Province, eastern China
Asiatic shrews of the genus Chodsigoa (Soricidae, Eulipotyphla) currently comprise nine species, mostly occurring in southwest China. From May 2017 to August 2020, 11 specimens of Chodsigoa were collected from the Dabie Mountains in Anhui Province, eastern China. Their morphology was compared with other species within the genus and one mitochondrial (cytochrome b) and two nuclear (apolipoprotein B and breast cancer 1) genes were sequenced to estimate the phylogenetic relationships of these specimens. Based on morphological and molecular evidence, these specimens are recognized as a distinct species, Chodsigoa dabieshanensis sp. nov., which is formally described here. Morphologically, the new species is most similar to Chodsigoa hypsibia, but it is distinguishable from all known congeners by the combination of dark brownish pelage, small size, and relatively short tail. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that C. dabieshanensis sp. nov. forms a phylogenetic lineage sister to the clade containing C. parva + C. hypsibia. The-Kimura 2-parameter genetic distances of the cytochrome b (CYT B) gene between the new species and other nominal Chodsigoa species ranged between 8.6 and 17.6%. The new species is distributed at elevations from 750 to 1250 m in the Dabie Mountains and is geographically distant from other species in the genus.
["Chodsigoa dabieshanensis"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Comparative analysis of the mitogenomes of two Corydoras (Siluriformes, Loricarioidei) with nine known Corydoras, and a phylogenetic analysis of Loricarioidei
Corydoras is a speciose catfish genus from South America with widely investigated phylogenetic and evolutionary relationships. The complete mitogenomes of C. aeneus and C. paleatus were sequenced, assembled, and annotated using next-generation sequencing. The genome arrangements, gene contents, genome structures, base compositions, evolutionary features, codon usage, and tRNA structures of the two mitogenomes were compared and analyzed with nine published mitogenomes of Corydoras. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using concatenated nucleotide sequences with 13 protein-coding genes and two rRNAs with 44 mitogenomes of Siluriformes. These results provide information on the mitogenomes of eleven Corydoras species and evolutionary relationships within the suborder Loricarioidei, which may be applicable for further phylogenetic and taxonomic studies on Siluriformes and Loricarioidei.
["Corydoras aeneus"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Notes on the taxonomic status and distribution of some Cylindrotomidae (Diptera, Tipuloidea), with emphasis on Japanese species
A morphological and molecular study of 17 Cylindrotomidae species revealed that the two subspecies of Cylindrotoma distinctissima, the Nearctic C. americana Osten Sacken, 1865, stat. reval. and the Palearctic C. distinctissima (Meigen, 1818), represent separated lineages and consequently are raised to species level. Cylindrotoma japonica Alexander, 1919, syn. nov. and C. distinctissima alpestris Peus, 1952, syn. nov. are now known to be junior synonyms of C. distinctissima. Triogma kuwanai limbinervis Alexander, 1953, syn. nov. and T. nimbipennis Alexander, 1941, syn. nov. are now placed into synonymy under Triogma kuwanai (Alexander, 1913). The Japanese Cylindrotomidae are all redescribed and all available literature and distribution data are summarised. Supplementary descriptions and illustrations for male and female terminalia of Cylindrotoma nigriventris Loew, 1849, Diogma dmitrii Paramonov, 2005, Liogma nodicornis (Osten Sacken, 1865), Phalacrocera replicata (Linnaeus, 1758), P. tipulina Osten Sacken, 1865, and Triogma trisulcata (Schummel, 1829) are provided. The following new distribution records are outlined; Diogma caudata Takahashi, 1960 from Arkhangelsk Oblast, Russia; D. glabrata (Meigen, 1818) from Belarus, Latvia, and Altai Republic, Amur Oblast, Novgorod Oblast, Magadan Oblast, Samara Oblast, and Kuril Islands (Shikotan I and Paramushir I) in Russia; Liogma serraticornis Alexander, 1919 from Khabarovsk Krai, Russia; Phalacrocera replicata from Khabarovsk Krai, Russia; and the presence of Cylindrotoma nigriventris in Altai Republic, Russia is confirmed.
["Barcode"]

﻿A new species of Simulium (Gomphostilbia) (Diptera, Simuliidae) from Thailand, with a key to identify females of 14 species of the Simulium varicorne species-group
Simulium (Gomphostilbia) khelangense sp. nov. is described on the basis of females, collected by a sweeping net in Lampang, Phitsanulok and Chiang Mai Provinces, Thailand. This new species is placed in the S. chumpornense subgroup of the S. varicorne species-group in the subgenus Gomphostilbia Enderlein by having the antenna with eight flagellomeres, pleural membrane bare, and female subcosta lacking hairs. It is similar to S. kuvangkadilokae Pramual & Tangkawanit from Thailand in the same subgroup but is barely distinguished from the latter species by the head width relative to the greatest width of the frons and length of the labrum relative to the clypeus. A genetic analysis using the COI gene sequences similarly shows that S. khelangense sp. nov. is most closely related to S. kuvangkadilokae, with a genetic distance of 1.23–2.81%. A revised key to identify females of 14 species of the S. varicorne species-group is provided.
["Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

﻿A revision of the genus Cylindroeme Vives (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae)
The genus Cylindroeme Vives, 2019 is taxonomically revised. The type species, Cylindroeme vietnamica Vives, 2019 is redescribed and a second species from Qinghai (China), Cylindroeme shii sp. nov., is described and illustrated. The genus is redescribed and a key to the known species is presented. The genus is also recorded from China for the first time.
["Longhorned beetles"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Meotipa species (Araneae, Theridiidae) from China
In an ongoing effort to expand knowledge of the Chinese cobweb spider fauna (Theridiidae), the genus Meotipa Simon, 1894 is reviewed. Two new species are described, Meotipa pseudopicturata sp. nov., Meotipa striata sp. nov., and five known species are redescribed: Meotipa argyrodiformis (Yaginuma, 1952), Meotipa pulcherrima (Mello-Leitão, 1917), Meotipa picturata Simon, 1895, Meotipa spiniventris (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1869), and Meotipa vesiculosa Simon, 1895.
["Cobweb spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Corynoneura Winnertz species from Hunan Province, Oriental China, delineated with morphological and 16S rDNA data (Diptera, Chironomidae)
The genus Corynoneura Winnertz, 1846 from Hunan Province in Oriental China is reviewed. Four new species, C. enormis Fu sp. nov., C. gibbera Fu sp. nov., C. incuria Fu sp. nov., and C. longshanensis Fu sp. nov. are described and illustrated based on adult males. Sequence data from the 16S rDNA gene were used to infer relationships between these species and complement morphological delineation. Sequences from the mitochondrial large ribosomal subunit (16S rDNA) from these species are uploaded to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Relationships were inferred using the Neighbor-Joining method based on 16S rDNA.
["Mitochondrial gene"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿First data on the Hirudinea fauna of lotic ecosystems of the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area (Russia)
Hirudinea, a small and ecologically important group of aquatic organisms, is poorly studied in northern Eurasia. In this study, we demyth the idea of the faunistic poverty of this region and present the first findings of rheophilic leeches from the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area, Russia. Investigation of 25 rivers (Severnaya Sosva, Ob, Konda-Irtysh, and Bolshoi Yugan river basins) resulted in finding 10 leech species with parasitic and non-parasitic life strategies. These species belong to two orders (Rhynchobdellida and Arhynchobdellida), three families (Glossiphoniidae, Piscicolidae, and Erpobdellidae) and six genera (Alboglossiphonia, Glossiphonia, Helobdella, Hemiclepsis, Piscicola, and Erpobdella). Five species, A. hyalina, G. verrucata, E. monostriata, E. vilnensis, and potentially new morphological species of piscine leeches Piscicola sp., have been discovered for the first time in Western Siberia. Data on species diversity of rheophilic leeches include the exact systematic position for all leech taxa. Each species from the list is supplemented with information about its geographical distribution.
["Hirudinea"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

﻿The second species of the genus Ivoria Kontschán, 2019: description of Ivoria alourouai sp. nov. from Ivory Coast (Acari, Mesostigmata, Urodinychidae)
A new Ivoria species (Ivoria alourouai sp. nov.) is described from Ivory Coast based on five females. The new species differs from the previously described congener (Ivoria taienesis Kontschán, 2019) based on the shape of female genital shield, dorsal setae, centro-caudal part of the marginal shield and peritremes.
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Nanhuaphasma Chen, He & Li, 2002 is a junior synonym of Dajaca Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893 (Phasmatodea, Aschiphasmatidae, Dajacini)
The genus Nanhuaphasma Chen, He & Li, 2002 was established as a member of the family Pseudophasmatidae Rehn, 1904 (now belonging to Aschiphasmatidae Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893) based on the male of N. hamicercum Chen & He, 2002. We review the status of Nanhuaphasma and N. hamicercum by examining the holotype and male and female non-types which were collected in same location as the holotype. We find that Nanhuaphasma is a junior synonym of Dajaca Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893 and N. hamicercum is a junior synonym of D. napolovi Brock, 2000. Complementing egg morphology of D. napolovi and keys to eight species of Dajaca are provided.
["External morphology"]

﻿New species and new records of Scolytoplatypus Schaufuss (Curculionidae, Scolytinae) from China, and resurrection of Scolytoplatypus sinensis (Tsai & Huang, 1965) as a distinct species
This study describes two new species, Scolytoplatypus wugongshanensis Liao, Lai & Beaver, sp. nov. and S. skyliuae Liao, Lai & Beaver, sp. nov., reinstates S. sinensis (Tsai & Huang, 1965) from synonymy with S. mikado (Blandford, 1893), and records five species for the first time from China, S. brahma Blandford, 1898, S. curviciliosus Gebhardt, 2006, S. minimus Hagedorn, 1904, S. ruficauda Eggers, 1939, S. samsinghensis Maiti & Saha, 2009, and three from mainland China, S. blandfordi Gebhardt, 2006, S. calvus Beaver & Liu, 2007, S. pubescens Hagedorn, 1904. A key to the males of Scolytoplatypus species in China is given. Genetic data from four genes indicate a rather isolated position for both new species, although their genetic relationship to each other was close.
["Ambrosia beetles"]

﻿A taxonomic revision of the Malagasy endemic subgenus Mayria of the genus Camponotus (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) based on qualitative morphology and quantitative morphometric analyses
The subgenus Mayria of the genus Camponotus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is revised. The subgenus is endemic to Madagascar where it occupies a broad range of habitats, from deciduous and dry forest to rainforest. A taxonomic review is provided of this subgenus, integrating multiples lines of evidence including qualitative morphology and quantitative morphometry. Species hypotheses are formed by Nest Centroid clustering. In total, 36 species are treated, of which eleven are newly described: Camponotus andrianjaka sp. nov., Camponotus antsaraingy sp. nov., Camponotus chrislaini sp. nov., Camponotus claveri sp. nov., Camponotus ivadia sp. nov., Camponotus jjacquia sp. nov., Camponotus maintilany sp. nov., Camponotus norvigi sp. nov., Camponotus ihazofotsy sp. nov., Camponotus tsimelahy sp. nov., Camponotus zoro sp. nov. Five species are redescribed. Camponotus themistocles Forel stat. nov., is raised to species. In addition, the subgenus is redefined to include 39 species. Twenty-two previously described species are transferred to this subgenus and thirteen species previously placed in the subgenus are transferred out of the subgenus. Nine morphologically consistent species groups are delineated to facilitate species identification within the subgenus. This revision includes a classification, a key to species groups, and an updated key to species based on the minor worker caste.
["Madagascar"]

﻿Complete mitochondrial genome of Rhodeus cyanorostris (Teleostei, Cyprinidae): characterization and phylogenetic analysis
Rhodeus cyanorostris Li, Liao & Arai, 2020 is a freshwater fish that is endemic to China and restricted to Chengdu City in Sichuan Province. This study is the first to sequence and characterize the complete mitochondrial genome of R. cyanorostris. The mitogenome of R. cyanorostris is 16580 bp in length, including 13 protein-coding genes, two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and a control region (D-loop). The base composition of the sequence is 28.5% A, 27.6% C, 26.4% T, and 17.5% G, with a bias toward A+T. The genome structure, nucleotide composition, and codon usage of the mitogenome of R. cyanorostris are consistent with those of other species of Rhodeus. To verify the molecular phylogeny of the genus Rhodeus, we provide new insights to better understand the taxonomic status of R. cyanorostris. The phylogenetic trees present four major clades based on 19 mitogenomic sequences from 16 Rhodeus species. Rhodeus cyanorostris exhibits the closest phylogenetic relationship with R. pseudosericeus, R. amarus, and R. sericeus. This study discloses the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of R. cyanorostris for the first time and provides the most comprehensive phylogenetic reconstruction of the genus Rhodeus based on whole mitochondrial genome sequences. The information obtained in this study will provide new insights for conservation, phylogenetic analysis, and evolutionary biology research.
["Acheilognathinae"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Two new species of the genus Chilobrachys (Araneae, Theraphosidae) from China
Two new species of the genus Chilobrachys Karsh, 1892 are described from China: Chilobrachys dominus Lin & Li, sp. nov. from Yunnan and C. jinchengi Lin & Li, sp. nov. from Tibet. Photos and a morphological description of the new species are given. The type specimens of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy (IZCAS) in Beijing.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Two new species of Heteroconis Enderlein, 1905 from China (Neuroptera, Coniopterygidae)
Two new species, Heteroconis yunnanensis sp. nov. and Heteroconis orbicularis sp. nov., are described from China. Both species differ from their congeners in characters of the male genitalia. Heteroconis terminalis (Banks, 1913) is redescribed based on examined Chinese specimens. A key to the adult males of Heteroconis from China is provided.
["Aleuropteryginae"]

﻿A new rainfrog of the genus Pristimantis (Anura, Brachycephaloidea) from central and eastern Panama
Substantial molecular and morphological character differences lead us to the description of a new species of the genus Pristimantis from the cloud forest of Cerro Chucantí, Maje Mountains, Darien Province, as well as from several other mountain ranges in eastern and central Panama. Pristimantis gretathunbergae sp. nov. is a sister species to the allopatric P. erythropleura-penelopus group from northern Colombia with a mtDNA sequence divergence of > 4.4% at 16S and > 14.6% at COI. Its closest congener in sympatry is P. cruentus that differs by a large sequence divergence of > 9.6% in 16S mtDNA and 19.0% at COI, and from which it differs also by ventral and groin coloration, unusually prominent black eyes, a contrasting light upper lip, commonly a single conical to spine-like tubercle on the upper eyelid, and a larger head. While the habitat continuity at most sites in eastern Panama is moderate, habitats in central Panama are severely fragmented. Cerro Chucantí and the surrounding Maje Mountains are highly threatened by rapid deforestation and replaced by plantations and cattle pastures. Thus, investigations on the ecology of the new species and its population status, especially at the type locality, are highly recommended. As a flagship species, this new frog can help to preserve the Chucantí cloud forest including several recently described species known only from this isolated area in eastern Panama.

﻿Strong differentiation between amphibian communities on two adjacent mountains in the Upper Rio Pastaza watershed of Ecuador, with descriptions of two new species of terrestrial frogs
We present the results of herpetological surveys in two adjacent mountains where the EcoMinga Foundation protects the cloud forest in the Upper Rio Pastaza watershed, in the Llanganates Sangay Ecological Corridor in Ecuador. A rapid assessment of the amphibian communities of the study sites reveals a diverse and heterogeneous composition, dominated by terrestrial frogs from the genus Pristimantis. We also identify a cryptic diversity with a significant number of candidate new species. We describe two new species of terrestrial frogs of the genus Pristimantis. Pristimantis maryanneae sp. nov. is characterised by not having tympanum externally visible and having 2–3 subconical tubercles in the upper eyelid; and Pristimantis burtoniorum sp. nov. is characterised by the presence of red colouration in hidden surfaces of the hind-limbs, tubercles on the upper eyelid, interorbital tubercle and a row of rounded tubercles along the snout to the tip and a pale red venter with dark brown mottled pattern. Our samples from the two Reserves do not share species between them, so the proportion of shared species seems to be relatively low. In addition, we highlight the importance of updating the knowledge of amphibians that are restricted to this important conservation region and comment about the threats and composition of the amphibian communities on the eastern slopes of the Upper Rio Pastaza watershed.

﻿The genus Cletocamptus (Harpacticoida, Canthocamptidae): a reappraisal, with proposal of a new subfamily, a new genus, and a new species
A new species of Cletocamptus closely related to C. helobius was found in sediment samples taken from a polluted estuarine system in north-western Mexico. The genus Cletocamptus was relegated to species incertae sedis in 1986, and this finding prompted us to evaluate the current taxonomic position of the genus within the Canthocamptidae. The latter has been subdivided in several, seemingly unnatural subfamilies in the past to better understand the relationships between its constituent taxa. In this study we propose a new subfamily, the Cletocamptinae subfam. nov. for Amphibiperita, Cletocamptus, and Cletocamptoides gen. nov., defined by the synapomorphic subdistal ventral spinules on the rostrum. The genus Cletocamptoides gen. nov. is proposed for C. helobius, C. merbokensis, and C. biushelo sp. nov., and is supported by the ‘cletodid’ shape of the body and the reduced one-segmented endopod of the fourth swimming leg. Cletocamptus includes all the other species with long slender spinules on the posterior margin of prosomites and with the sexually modified inner spine on the second endopodal segment of the second swimming leg in the males. Amphibiperita retained the primitive female fifth leg with exopod and baseoendopod separated, and the primitive prehensile endopod of the first leg, but is defined by the loss of the antennary exopod. Other (syn)apomorphies are given, and the evolution of the mandibular palp is briefly discussed. Additionally, a diagnosis for the new subfamily, Cletocamptinae subfam. nov., an amended narrower diagnosis for Cletocamptus, the diagnosis for Cletocamptoides gen. nov., and a phylogenetic analysis supporting the proposal of these new taxa, are given.
["Copepoda"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿Diversity and distribution of the Isopoda (Crustacea, Peracarida) of Kuwait, with an updated checklist
Thirty-eight species of Isopoda, belonging to 13 families and 29 genera, are listed from Kuwait based on previous literature records (of 17 species) and collections carried out along Kuwait’s coastal and subtidal zones during the present study. The majority of species belongs to the suborder Cymothoida (23), followed by Sphaeromatidea (9), Oniscidea (3), Valvifera (2), and Asellota (1). In total, 25 species were collected and identified from 12 families and 22 genera from Kuwaiti coastal and subtidal areas. These include eight families, 15 genera, and 21 species recorded for the first time from Kuwait. Isopod diversity was highest in the sandy rock areas, including southern Kuwait, particularly in Al-Khiran and Al-Nuwaiseeb, and in mixed habitat (muddy, rocky, and sandy) intertidal transects such as in Failaka Island. The species number increased from the subtidal and lowest zones into the high tidal zone. Isopods were found in sandy substrata, among shells, cobbles, rocks, dead corals, and algae.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿Genital anatomy, jaw and radula of Guladentia subtussulcata (Helicoidea, Cepolidae), endemic to western Cuba
This study provides the first data on the genital anatomy, jaw and radula of Guladentia subtussulcata (L. Pfeiffer, 1863). The auxiliary copulatory organ of this species is very peculiar, similar to that of Jeanneretia L. Pfeiffer, 1877, and different from that of other cepolids. It consists of an elongate, pedunculate mucus gland inserted apically on a muscular papilla and an atrial sac, all covered by a sheath. A sheath-like accessory gland is inserted at the base of the atrial sac. Another similarity with Jeanneretia is the presence of a fertilization pouch-spermatheca complex with a single exposed spermatheca. Like Jeanneretia, G. subtussulcata has an oxygnath, highly arched jaw with slight striae over the entire surface and a broad, well-developed median projection. The radula has triangular and monocuspid central and lateral teeth (the central teeth are smaller than the rest). The marginal teeth are multicuspid with the mesocone and ectocones smaller than the endocones. The similar structures of the auxiliary copulatory organ (without dart sac) and spermatheca (simple) strongly suggest that G. subtussulcata and Jeanneretia spp. are closely related. As such, it remains to be decided whether Guladentia Clench & Aguayo, 1951 and Jeanneretia should continue to be treated as separate genera.
["Auxiliary copulatory organ"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

﻿Three cryptic Anaplecta (Blattodea, Blattoidea, Anaplectidae) species revealed by female genitalia, plus seven new species from China
Morphological characteristics, including male and female genitalia, combined with DNA barcodes were used to identify 470 Anaplecta specimens sampled from China. Ten Anaplecta species are new to science, including three cryptic species: A. paraomei Zhu & Che, sp. nov., A. condensa Zhu & Che, sp. nov., and A. longihamata Zhu & Che, sp. nov., which are distinguished mainly by their female genitalia. The other seven new species are as follows: A. bicruris Zhu & Che, sp. nov., A. spinosa Zhu & Che, sp. nov., A. ungulata Zhu & Che, sp. nov., A. anomala Zhu & Che, sp. nov., A. serrata Zhu & Che, sp. nov., A. bombycina Zhu & Che, sp. nov., and A. truncatula Zhu & Che, sp. nov. This study illustrates that differences in female genitalia can be used to distinguish among species of Anaplecta. The female genitalia of 19 Chinese Anaplecta species are described and illustrated in this paper.
["ABGD"]

﻿Seasonal and microclimatic effects on leaf beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) in a tropical forest fragment in northeastern Mexico
Leaf beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) constitute a family of abundant, diverse, and ecologically important herbivorous insects, due to their high specificity with host plants, a close association with vegetation and a great sensitivity to microclimatic variation (factors that are modified gradually during the rainy and dry seasons). Therefore, the effects of seasonality (rainy and dry seasons) and microclimate on the community attributes of chrysomelids were evaluated in a semideciduous tropical forest fragment of northeastern Mexico. Monthly sampling was conducted, between March 2016 and February 2017, with an entomological sweep net in 18 plots of 20 × 20 m, randomly distributed from 320 to 480 m a.s.l. Seven microclimatic variables were simultaneously recorded during each of the samplings, using a portable weather station. In total, 216 samples were collected at the end of the study, of which 2,103 specimens, six subfamilies, 46 genera, and 71 species were obtained. The subfamily Galerucinae had the highest number of specimens and species in the study area, followed by Cassidinae. Seasonality caused significant changes in the abundance and number of leaf beetle species: highest richness was recorded in the rainy season, with 60 species, while the highest diversity (lowest dominance and highest H’ index) was obtained in the dry season. Seasonal inventory completeness of leaf beetles approached (rainy season) or was higher (dry season) than 70%, while the faunistic similarity between seasons was 0.63%. The outlying mean index was significant in both seasons; of the seven microclimatic variables analyzed, only temperature, heat index, evapotranspiration and wind speed were significantly related to changes in abundance of Chrysomelidae. Association between microclimate and leaf beetles was higher in the dry season, with a difference in the value of importance of the abiotic variables. The results indicated that each species exhibited a different response pattern to the microclimate, depending on the season, which suggests that the species may exhibit modifications in their niche requirements according to abiotic conditions. However, the investigations must be replicated in other regions, in order to obtain a better characterization of the seasonal and microclimatic influence on the family Chrysomelidae.
["Abiotic factors"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

﻿First report of the order Mysida (Crustacea) in Antarctic marine ice caves, with description of a new species of Pseudomma and investigations on the taxonomy, morphology and life habits of Mysidetes species
SCUBA diving explorations of three islands off Dumont d’Urville Station at the coast of Adélie Land, East Antarctica, enabled the observation of marine ice caves. Sampling in this unusual habitat yielded a total of three species of Mysidae, altogether previously poorly known or unknown to science. Pseudomma kryotroglodytum sp. nov. is described, based on the structure of the antennal scale, telson and on cornea-like lateral portions set off against the main body of eyeplates. Mysidetes illigi is re-established at species level after almost a century in synonymy. Re-descriptions are provided for M. illigi and M. hanseni, based on types and ice cave materials. Keys to the Southern Ocean species of Pseudomma and to the world-wide species of Mysidetes are given. Phylogenetic trees are provided for the genera Pseudomma and Mysidetes. 18S rDNA sequences of P. kryotroglodytum differ from GenBank sequences of other Pseudomma species. First sequence data are given for species of the genus Mysidetes: 18S differs between the two examined species and COI is quite diverse between and within species. We found previously unknown, probably sensorial structures in these ice cave species: in P. kryotroglodytum, the basal segment of the antennula shows a pit-like depression with striated pad on the bottom and a median cyst, connected with the bottom of the eyeplate cleft. M. illigi shows a female homologue of the appendix masculina bearing a field of modified setae. Subsequent investigations demonstrated these structures also in species from other habitats. The feeding apparatus and stomach contents of the three ice cave species point to brushing of small particles (detritus, microalgae) from available surfaces, such as sediment, rock and the ice surface. Differences in the feeding apparatus are very subtle between the two Mysidetes species. The high content of fat bodies in M. hanseni could help it to survive periods of starvation. The large storage volume of the foregut in P. kryotroglodytum points to the collection of food with low nutritional quality and could help to balance strongly fluctuating food availability. Summer specimens of M. hanseni showed a bimodal frequency of developmental stages in the marsupium and bimodal size-frequency distribution of free-living stages. The females with younger brood (embryos) were, on average, larger and carried more marsupial young than those with older brood (nauplioid larvae). All examined incubating and spent females showed (almost) empty foreguts and empty ovarian tubes, suggesting possible semelparity and death following the release of young. The absence of juveniles and immature females from summer samples suggests that growth and accumulation of fat and yolk occur outside ice caves, while such caves could be used by fattened adults as shelter for brooding. A provisional interpretation proposes a biannual life cycle for M. hanseni, superimposed with shifted breeding schedules, the latter characterised by early breeding and late breeding females, probably in response to harsh physical and trophic conditions along the continental coast of Antarctica.
["Development"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿A new species of Ampithoe (Amphipoda, Ampithoidae) from Korea, with a redescription of A. tarasovi
An ampithoid species, previously known as A. tarasovi in Korea, is assigned as a new species, A. changbaensis sp. nov. based on the reexamination of the holotype of A. tarasovi. The new species shows different morphological characteristics compared to A. tarasovi, especially in male gnathopods 1 and 2. The type material of A. tarasovi is redescribed and illustrated here and a key to the Korean species of Ampithoe is provided.
["Ampithoe changbaensis sp. nov."]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Conservation Studies"]

﻿The definitive rediscovery of Telmatobius halli (Anura, Telmatobiidae) at its historic type locality and its synonymy with T. dankoi and T. vilamensis
Telmatobius halli was the first representative of its genus to be described exclusively for Chile, yet for 85 years no new individuals could be located due to the vagueness with which its type locality was described. The type series was collected by one of the members of the International High Altitude Expedition to Chile (IHAEC) of 1935. Recently, three studies successively claimed to have located the type locality in different places. The third study proved, according to the chronicles of the IHAEC, that the actual locality is Miño, at the origin of the Loa River, where currently there are no published records of Telmatobius. In this study, additional documentary antecedents and graphic material are provided that corroborate that Miño is indeed the type locality of T. halli. Additionally, the recently rediscovered Telmatobius population from Miño and the environment it inhabits are described. The external characteristics of the frogs are consistent with the description of T. halli. Furthermore, molecular phylogenetic analyses were performed that showed that T. halli, T. dankoi, and T. vilamensis, all known only from their type localities in Chile, comprise a clade without internal resolution. A detailed comparison of the diagnoses of the three species revealed that the few phenotypic differences between these taxa were based on characteristics that vary widely within and between populations of the genus, hence their conspecificity is proposed. The implications of this synonymy for the taxonomy, biogeography, and conservation of the Telmatobius from the extreme south of its distribution in Chile are discussed.
["Amphibia"]

﻿Morphological and molecular characterisation of the Popijač’s Yellow Sally, Isoperla popijaci sp. nov., a new stenoendemic stonefly species from Croatia (Plecoptera, Perlodidae)
A new species of the Yellow Sally genus (Isoperla Banks, 1906) is described, based on morphological (males and females adults, larval and egg) and molecular (the barcode region of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (COI)) features. Popijač’s Yellow Sally, I. popijaci Hlebec & Sivec, sp. nov. inhabits two karstic sources of the Krasulja rivulet in Croatia. Male and female of the new species are characterised by colouration patterns of the head and pronotum; the dimensions of the female subgenital plate; the medial penial armature and oval-shaped egg without collar and anchor. The larvae differ from their congeners by the uniquely coloured head and pronotum. Based on morphological characteristics I. popijaci sp. nov. belongs to the I. tripartita species group. Phylogenetic and taxonomic relationships were reconstructed using three methods of phylogenetic inference and three species delimitation methods. As I. popijaci sp. nov. occurs at a narrow area of the Krasulja rivulet in Krbava field, the study puts emphasis on the conservation and hotspot importance of the temporary rivers in the Dinaric karst. Furthermore, the study accentuates the necessity for further research on the genetic diversity of Plecoptera in Croatia.

﻿Two new species of Helochares, with additional faunistic records from China (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Acidocerinae)
Two new species, Helochares guoi Yang & Jia, sp. nov. and Helochares distinctus Jia & Tang, sp. nov., are described. Two species are recorded for the first time from China: Helochares negatus Hebauer, 1995 from Yunnan, and Helochares minusculus d’Orchymont, 1943 from Guangdong. Additional faunistic data from China are provided for the following species: Helochares hainanensis Dong & Bian, 2021, Helochares nipponicus Hebauer, 1995, Helochares sauteri d’Orchymont, 1943, Helochares densus Sharp, 1890, Helochares lentus Sharp, 1890, Helochares neglectus (Hope, 1854) and Helochares anchoralis Sharp, 1890. The Chinese fauna of Helochares comprises 16 species, 11 of which are illustrated in this contribution. Helochares crenatus Régimbart, 1921 is removed from the Chinese fauna.
["New records"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

﻿Anormalous liu sp. nov.: a first record and a new species of the genus Anormalous Liu, 2011 (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae, Phaneropterinae) from India
The Phaneropterinae, commonly known as the bush katydids, are among the most diverse tettigoniids in the world. A new species Anormalous liu sp. nov. is described from Kashmir, India. This is the second species in the short-winged genus Anormalous. It is differentiated from the other species from China by the absence of posterior apical spurs on the fore and mid tibiae, the male subgenital plate with two long cylindrical lobes fused with each other and blunt at the apices, and the male stridulatory area longer than broad. We include a key to species in the genus Anormalou. The holotype has been deposited in the Museum of Zoology Department, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh Uttar Pradesh, India.
["Anormalous"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿A review of Gryllidae (Grylloidea) with the description of one new species and four new distribution records from the Sindh Province, Pakistan
Seventeen species of the family Gryllidae were reviewed and a Modicogryllus sindhensis is described herein as new. Four species, namely Acheta hispanicus Rambur, 1838, Gryllus septentrionalis F. Walker, 1869, Callogryllus saeedi Saeed, 2000, and Miogryllus itaquiensis Orsini & Zefa, 2017 are recorded as new country and state records. Differences between similar species and a taxonomic key to the species of Sindh are provided.
["Acheta"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Morphological investigation of genital organs and first insights into the phylogeny of the genus Siciliaria Vest, 1867 as a basis for a taxonomic revision (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Clausiliidae)
["The taxonomy and systematics of the door snail genus Siciliaria was revised based on an integrative approach including a comprehensive genital anatomical investigation"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿The re-description of Synoecnema hirsutum Timm, 1959 (Synoecneminae, Ungellidae, Drilonematoidea) from a pheretimoid earthworm in Vietnam with the analysis of its phylogenetic relationships
Synoecnema hirsutum Timm, 1959 (Ungellidae, Drilonematoidea), found in the body cavity of the pheretimoid earthworm at the border of Laos and Vietnam, was re-described and illustrated. The mitochondrial genome of S. hirsutum obtained with Illumina HiSeq sequencing is the first annotated mitochondrial genome as a representative of the superfamily Drilonematoidea. The phylogeny inferred from the analysis of 12 mitochondrial genes has shown some similarity of S. hirsutum with a cephalobid Acrobeloides varius.
["Drilonematids"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

First record of the genus Discorhabdella (Porifera, Demospongiae, Poecilosclerida, Crambeidae) from Sagami Bay, Japan with description of two new species
Two new species of Discorhabdella are described from Sagami Bay, Japan. Discorhabdella has been suggested to have an ancient Tethyan origin according to discovery of their unique pseudoastrose acanthostyles from late Eocene to Oligocene deposits. This is the first record of the genus from the northwest Pacific and first record of the family Crambeidae from Japan. Discorhabdella hispida sp. nov. is distinctive within the genus by possession of special sigmoid microscleres and C-shaped isochelae with short alae. Discorhabdella misakiensis sp. nov. is characterized by short choanosomal subtylostyles, and their length overlapped with that of the ectosomal subtylostyles. Only one other species, Discorhabdella tuberosocapitata (Topsent, 1890), has the same spicule composition. However, all spicule types are larger in D. tuberosocapitata than those of D. misakiensis sp. nov., and the shape of the isochelae is different: the alae are more widely opened in D. tuberosocapitata. An identification key to species of the genus Discorhabdella is also provided. The discovery of two new species from warm temperate northwest Pacific extends the geographical distribution of the genus Discorhabdella.
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Two new Cypridopsinae Kaufmann, 1900 (Crustacea, Ostracoda) from southern Africa
Two new Cypridopsinae ostracods, Potamocypris meissneri sp. nov. and Sarscypridopsis harundineti sp. nov. are described. Both were found only as asexual (all-female) populations in temporary waters of southern Africa. Potamocypris meissneri was collected from a small pan in the North-West Province of South Africa. It is approximately 0.5 mm long and belongs to the species group with long swimming setae on the second antennae. However, the species has a somewhat isolated position in the genus owing to the conspicuously reticulated carapace, which is furthermore densely covered by prominent conuli with normal pores carrying long sensilla, as well as to the wide anterior and posterior flanges on the left valve. To allow identification of the new species in relation to its closest congeners, a key to the species of the genus Potamocypris Brady, 1870 from southern Africa is provided. The genus Sarscypridopsis McKenzie, 1977 mostly has an Afrotropical distribution with only few species occurring in other regions. Sarscypridopsis harundineti was collected from floodplains of the outskirts of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. It is approximately 0.4 mm long and can be distinguished from congeners mainly by the smaller and more oval-shaped valves. We conclude that southern African Cypridopsinae urgently need integrated taxonomic revision, by means of both morphological characters and DNA-sequence data.
["Afrotropical"]

﻿Rediscovering the dancing semislug genus Cryptosemelus Collinge, 1902 (Eupulmonata, Ariophantidae) from Thailand with description of two new species
Knowledge of Thai semislugs remains scarce, especially the dancing semislug genus Cryptosemelus. Prior to the present study, only a single species has been recognized with little available information. To address this knowledge gap, we surveyed for semislugs in western and southern Thailand, which yielded three species belonging to the genus Cryptosemelus. The little-known type species C. gracilis is redescribed herein, including a comparison with the type specimens. Two additional species, C. betarmon sp. nov. and C. tigrinus sp. nov., are described as new to science. All three species are characterized by differences in their genital anatomy, especially with respect to anatomical details of the penis, epiphallus, and spermatophore. In addition, C. tigrinus sp. nov. differs from C. gracilis and C. betarmon sp. nov. in the mantle color pattern.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

﻿ Neothelaxes pileata, a new species from China (Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha, Aphididae, Thelaxinae)
Neothelaxes pileata Qiao sp. nov., found on Pilea martinii (Urticaceae) in China, is described and illustrated. Neothelaxes Chakrabarti & Quednau is also a new generic record for China.
["Aphid"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids", "Axial and Atropisomeric Chirality Synthesis"]

﻿A contribution to the knowledge of cave-adapted ground beetles from Guiyang, central Guizhou Province, southwestern China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechini)
A new genus and two new species of cavernicolous trechines are reported from central Guizhou Province, southwestern China. Haixiaphaenops gen. nov. is established to place a new species discovered in two limestone caves in northern Qingzhen Shi: H. jinxiaohongae sp. nov. (Dawan Dong cave and Changtu Dong and Dawan Dong caves). This new genus is allied to Zhijinaphaenops Uéno & Ran, 2002. Zhijinaphaenops zhaofeii sp. nov. is described from Zhangkou Dong cave in northern Jiuzhuang Zhen of Xifeng County. In addition, two new localities of the species Zhijinaphaenops jingliae Deuve & Tian, 2015, and two new localities of Sinaphaenops chengguangyuani Ma et al. 2020 are provided. A distribution map for all cavernicolous trechine beetles known in Guiyang is provided.
["Hypogean"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿A review of the genus Hesperosoma Scheerpeltz (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae) of China
A review of 16 species of Hesperosoma Scheerpeltz from China is presented. Five new species are described: H. (s.str.) chenchangchini sp. nov. from Yunnan, H. (s.str.) languidum sp. nov. from Yunnan, H. (s.str.) motuoense sp. nov. from Xizang, H. (Paramichrotus) parvioculatum sp. nov. from Hubei, Hunan and H. (s.str.) xizangense sp. nov. from Xizang. Two species are new to China: H. (Paramichrotus) brunkei Schillhammer, 2015 from Yunnan and H. (s.str.) kleebergi Schillhammer, 2009 from Xizang. Females of H. (Paramichrotus) alexpuchneri Schillhammer, 2009, H. (Paramichrotus) guizhouense Schillhammer, 2018 and H. (s.str.) flavoterminale Schillhammer, 2004 are described for the first time. Habitus and diagnostic characters of all species are photographed and a key to Chinese species of Hesperosoma is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

﻿Addendum to a minimalist revision of Costa Rican Braconidae: 28 new species and 23 host records
Twenty-nine species are treated, most of which have host caterpillar and food plant records, and all but one are new to science. The first host record for the agathidine genus Amputoearinus is given. Gnathopleura josequesadai Sharkey, sp. nov. is reported as a hyperparasitoid of fly larvae, the first such record for the genus. The following new species are diagnosed primarily using COI barcode data; Sharkey is the authority for all: Agathidinae: Aerophilus davidwagneri, Aerophilus fundacionbandorum, Aerophilus nicklaphami, Lytopylus davidstopaki, Lytopylus davidschindeli; Alysiinae: Gnathopleura josequesadai; Braconinae: Bracon andreamezae, Bracon franklinpaniaguai, Bracon rafagutierrezi, Bracon guillermoblancoi, Bracon oscarmasisi, Bracon pauldimaurai, Bracon shebadimaurae, Sacirema karendimaurae; Cheloninae: Chelonus minorzunigai; Homolobinae: Homolobus stevestroudi; Macrocentrinae: Macrocentrus michaelstroudi; Orgilinae: Stantonia gilbertfuentesi; Rhysipolinae: Rhysipolis stevearonsoni; Rogadinae: Aleiodes kaydodgeae, Aleiodes kerrydresslerae, Aleiodes josesolanoi, Aleiodes juniorporrasi, Aleiodes rocioecheverri, Aleiodes ronaldzunigai, Choreborogas jesseausubeli, Triraphis doncombi, and Yelicones mayrabonillae.
["Accelerated taxonomy"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿Bringing order to a complex system: phenotypic and genotypic evidence contribute to the taxonomy of Tityus (Scorpiones, Buthidae) and support the description of a new species
We present a molecular phylogenetic analysis including a survey for overlooked phenotypic characters. Based on both analysis and characters a new cave-dwelling species is described: Tityus (Tityus) spelaeus sp. nov. from the Russão II cave, Posse, state of Goiás, Central Brazil. Characters such as the glandular regions of the female pectinal basal piece and basal middle lamellae of pectines, and the distribution of the ventral setae of telotarsi I–IV proved to be useful to constructing the taxonomy of species and species groups of Tityus. The new species is a member of the Tityus trivittatus species-group of Tityus (Tityus) and can be readily recognized by the immaculate coloration pattern and the more developed glandular region on the female pectinal basal piece. In addition, we provide a discussion of the phylogenetic relationships observed within Tityus, on the relevance of the new phenotypic characters to the modern taxonomy of the genus Tityus, and to the records of Brazilian cave scorpions.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Taxonomic revision of Romaleosyrphus Bigot (Diptera, Syrphidae), including descriptions of seven new species
The genus Romaleosyrphus Bigot is reviewed, including the description of seven new species (R. argosi Moran, sp. nov., R. bigoti Moran, sp. nov., R. drysus Moran, sp. nov., R. nephelaeus Moran & Thompson, sp. nov., R. soletluna Moran & Thompson, sp. nov., R. vockerothi Moran & Thompson, sp. nov. and R. woodi Moran, sp. nov.). Romaleosyrphus arctophiloides (Giglio-Tos), comb. nov. is transferred to Romaleosyrphus. Romaleosyrphus stat. rev. is redefined to represent the monophyletic unit of species within Criorhinina which possess holoptic males, a proximal ventral half of vein C with setae, a broad intersection of vein R1 with vein C, the distal part of R4+5 beyond M1 longer than cross-vein h and appressed pile on the abdomen. Descriptions, habitus and genitalia photographs, distributions, and an illustrated key for all nine Romaleosyrphus are presented. DNA barcode data are provided for eight of the species with a cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene tree presented and discussed.
["Criorhinina"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology"]

﻿Corrieopone nouragues gen. nov., sp. nov., a new Ponerinae from French Guiana (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
This study describes the worker and queen castes of the Neotropical ponerine Corrieopone nouragues gen. nov., sp. nov., an ant from the tropical rainforest in French Guiana. Worker morphology of the taxon is compared with those of other Ponerinae and the similarities between them are discussed, refining the definition of character states for some diagnostic characters at the generic level, providing an identification key to the Neotropical genera, and making some adjustments to the taxonomic framework within the subfamily. Descriptions, diagnosis, character discussion, identiﬁcation key, and glossary are illustrated with more than 300 images and line drawings. Open science is supported by providing access to measurement data for specimens of the new genus, a matrix of character states for all ponerine taxa evaluated in this study, and specimen data for all examined material. The new or revived combinations presented here are Pachycondyla procidua Emery, comb. rev., Neoponera curiosa (Mackay and Mackay), comb. nov., Leptogenys butteli (Forel), comb. nov., and Bothroponera escherichi (Forel), comb. nov. In addition, Leptogenys butteli is synonymized with Leptogenys myops (Emery), syn. nov.
["Ant Course"]

﻿Revision of the xyleborine ambrosia beetle genus Microperus Wood, 1980 (Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini) of Thailand with four new species and four newly recorded species
Microperus Wood, 1980 ambrosia beetles in Thailand are reviewed. Four species, M. bidentatus sp. nov., M. bucolicus sp. nov., M. globodeclivis sp. nov., and M. serratus sp. nov. are described. Four new combinations are given: Microperus armaticeps (Schedl, 1942) comb. nov., Microperus exsculptus (Eggers, 1927) comb. nov., Microperus pedellus (Schedl, 1969) comb. nov., and Microperus spicatulus (Browne, 1986) comb. nov., stat. res., all from Xyleborus. Two new synonyms are proposed: Microperus cruralis (Schedl, 1975) (= Xyleborus myllus Browne, 1986 syn. nov.), Microperus exsculptus (Eggers, 1927) (= Xyleborus dentipennis Browne, 1983 syn. nov.). Four species are reported from Thailand for the first time: Microperus chrysophylli (Eggers, 1930), Microperus exsculptus, Microperus nanus (Browne, 1949) and Microperus quercicola (Eggers, 1926). With the inclusion of the Microperus species described and recorded herein, the diversity of Microperus is increased to 35 species, of which 18 are recorded in Thailand. An updated key to the Microperus of the Indochinese Peninsula and China is provided. The taxonomy, diagnostic characters, and distribution of species are briefly discussed.

﻿Four new species of the spider genus Synagelides Strand, 1906 from South China (Araneae, Salticidae)
Four new species of the jumping spider genus Synagelides Strand, 1906 from Guizhou and Yunnan, China are described: Synagelides angustus sp. nov. (♀), S. latus sp. nov. (♂♀), S. subagoriformis sp. nov. (♂♀), and S. triangulus sp. nov. (♀). Photographs of the habitus and copulatory organs and a distributional map are provided.
["Ant-like spider"]

﻿The genus Dryadaula Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Tineoidea, Dryadaulidae) in China, with descriptions of four new species and a world checklist
Four new species of the genus Dryadaula Meyrick, 1893 from China are described: Dryadaula auriformis sp. nov., D. flavostriata sp. nov., D. hirtiglobosa sp. nov. and D. securiformis sp. nov. Photographs of adults and genitalia of the new species are provided. DNA barcodes of D. auriformis sp. nov., D. hirtiglobosa sp. nov. and D. securiformis sp. nov. are given. A key to the species in China and a detailed checklist for the genus with all 49 known species in the world are presented.
["Asymmetrical genitalia"]

﻿Four new species of the genus Luzonomyza Malloch (Diptera, Lauxaniidae) from China
Four species of the genus Luzonomyza Malloch, 1929 from southwest China are described as new to science: Luzonomyza vittifacies Li & Yang, sp. nov., L. serrata Li & Yang, sp. nov., L. honghensis Li & Yang, sp. nov., and L. brevis Li & Yang, sp. nov. A key to Luzonomyza species is also presented.
["Lauxaniinae"]

﻿A new species of Esola Edwards, 1891 (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Laophontidae) from the Caribbean coast of Colombia
A new species of the harpacticoid copepod genus Esola is described from specimens collected in Rodadero Beach, on Gaira Bay, on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. The species, E. wellsi sp. nov., is described, illustrated, and com­pared with its congeners. Esola wellsi sp. nov. differs from its known congeners in details of the armature of legs 1–4. It most closely resembles E. bulbifera (Norman, 1911) in the armature formula of P1–P5 but differs from the latter in several respects, including the female antennule segmentation (7-segmented in E. bulbifera but distinctly 6-segmented in E. wellsi sp. nov.) and in the shape and size of the male P3ENP2 apophysis, among other characters. This is the second species of the genus known from the Caribbean and the second record of Esola in the Northwestern Tropical Atlantic. The genus now contains eight species. A key to the known species of the genus is also included.
["Benthic copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

﻿Two new species and new records of Otocepheidae (Acari, Oribatida) from Yunnan, Southwest China
This work includes taxonomic data on four species of oribatid mites of the family Otocepheidae from Yunnan, China. Two new species of the genera Basiceramerus and Eurostocepheus are described, respectively. Basiceramerus ovatus sp. nov. differs from B. bangladeshensis Corpuz-Raros & Gruèzo, 2008 by the wavy marginalis passing the base of the adanal setae, prodorsal condyles well separated from median ones, a ventral ridge present, and the anal plate foveolate; it differs from B. igorotus Corpuz-Raros & Gruèzo, 2011 from Vietnam by the wavy marginalis passing the base of the adanal setae, a connected tutorium and lamelliform expansion, a ventral ridge present, a smooth genital plate, and seta an2 located close to the median margin of the anal opening; it differs from B. igorotus from the Philippines by the lamellar setae inserted behind the tip of the lamella, separated prodorsal condyles, lyrifissure im posterior to gla, genital plate smooth, anal plate foveolate, and the wavy marginalis passing the base of the adanal setae. Eurostocepheus (Eurostocepheus) sinutus sp. nov. differs from other known species of this genus by having a ventral groove between the genital aperture and the ventral ridge, eight pairs of notogastral setae, and distinctly shorter and thinner notogastral setae p1, p2, p3, h3. Eurostocepheus (Eurostocepheus) aquilinus Aoki, 1965 and E. (E.) mahunkai Mondal & Kundu, 1999 are reported for the first time from China.
["Basiceramerus"]

A review of the Larainae of Australia with description of seven new species and the new genus Australara (Coleoptera, Byrrhoidea, Elmidae)
The three genera and four species of Larainae (Elmidae) previously described from Australia are reviewed, and one new genus and seven new species are described: Australara glaisteri gen. et sp. nov., Ovolara lawrencei sp. nov., Ovolara monteithi sp. nov., Stetholus carinatus sp. nov., Stetholus longipennis sp. nov., Stetholus metatibialis sp. nov., and Stetholus woronora sp. nov. A lectotype is designated for Hydora laticeps (Carter & Zeck), and the first new collection records of the species are reported since its description in 1932. The occurrence in Australia of Potamophilinus papuanus Satô, described from Papua New Guinea, is reported. A key to the species, photographic images of the external morphology and male genitalia, distribution maps, and habitat and behavioral information, when known, are provided for all twelve species of Australian Larainae.
["aquatic beetles"]

A new Diancta species of the family Diplommatinidae (Cyclophoroidea) from Vanua Levu Island, Fiji
A new species of Diancta of the staircase snail family Diplommatinidae is described from Mt. Savusavu, Vanua Levu Island, Fiji. Due to its left coiling shell and a constriction before the last whorl, it is placed in the genus Diancta. Micro-CT imaging reveals two apertural teeth and an inner lamella that is situated at the zone of constriction. The shell abruptly changes coiling direction by 45 degrees before the last whorl. Up to now, this coiling modus had not yet been documented for any species of Diplommatinidae from the Fiji Islands.
["Diancta"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Two new species of cricket genus Anaxiphomorpha Gorochov, 1987 (Orthoptera, Trigonidiidae, Trigonidiinae) in China
Two new species, Anaxiphomorpha nonggangensis sp. nov. and Anaxiphomorpha manereserratus sp. nov., are reported from Guangxi Province, China. Descriptions and illustrations for the new species and a key to all known species of Anaxiphomorpha are provided.
["Southern China"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

Taxonomy of the Proisotoma complex. VI. Rediscovery of the genus Bagnallella Salmon, 1951 and epitoky in Bagnallella davidi (Barra, 2001), comb. nov. from South Africa
The genus Bagnallella Salmon is restored and given a diagnosis. It takes an intermediate position between Proisotoma Börner and Cryptopygus Willem complexes and is characterized by the separation of the two last abdominal segments (like in Proisotoma) and 3 and 5 s-chaetae on the fourth and fifth abdominal segments (like in Cryptopygus and its allies). A list of and key to species belonging to Bagnallella is given. Bagnallella biseta comb. nov., B. dubia comb. nov., B. sedecimoculata comb. nov., and B. tenella comb. nov. are commented and redescribed. Morphology of Bagnallella davidi (Barra), comb. nov. is described from the specimens from South Africa. So far B. davidi appears to be a complex of forms differing in size of the furca and macrochaetae. Two types of strongly modified males were found and described. Antennae, ventral side of abdomen, posterior edge of abdominal tergites, and mandibles are affected with epitoky. The nature of the discovered strong polymorphism is unclear.
["Collembola"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

On two new species of deep-sea carrier crabs (Crustacea, Brachyura, Homolodromiidae, Dicranodromia) from Taiwan and the Philippines, with notes on other Indo-West Pacific species
The systematics of four species of the homolodromiid genus Dicranodromia A. Milne-Edwards, 1880, from East Asia and the Philippines is reappraised: D. danielae Ng & McLay, 2005, D. doederleini Ortmann, 1892, D. karubar Guinot, 1993, and D. martini Guinot, 1995; and key characters such as the epistome, gonopods, and spermatheca are figured in detail. Two new species, D. erinaceus sp. nov. and D. robusta sp. nov., are described from Taiwan and the Philippines, respectively. Dicranodromia erinaceus sp. nov. resembles D. spinulata Guinot, 1995, and D. delli Ahyong, 2008 (from New Caledonia and New Zealand) but can be separated by its distinctly spinulated carapace surfaces and proportionately shorter fifth ambulatory legs. Dicranodromia robusta sp. nov. is superficially similar to D. baffini (Alcock & Anderson, 1899) and D. karubar Guinot, 1993, but can easily be separated by possessing a broad dorsoventrally flattened infraorbital tooth. A genetic study of the species using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene confirms that the taxa are distinct, with D. erinaceus sp. nov. coming out in a well-supported clade from congeners. The megalopa of D. doederleini is also reported for the first time.
["Comparative taxonomy"]

A new species of the genus Tylototriton (Urodela, Salamandridae) from western Thailand
We describe a new species of the newt genus Tylototriton from Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary, Tak Province, western Thailand based on molecular and morphological evidence and named here as Tylototriton umphangensis sp. nov. The new species is assigned to the subgenus Tylototriton and differs from other species in having dark-brown to blackish-brown body and limbs, truncate snout, prominent antero-medial ends of the expansion of the dentary bones, laterally protruding quadrate regions, indistinct and small rib nodules, a well-segmented vertebral ridge, and rough dorsolateral bony ridges, which are steeper anterior, and curved medially at the posterior ends. The molecular data show that Tylototriton umphangensis sp. nov. differs from T. uyenoi sensu stricto by a 5% genetic sequence divergence of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 region gene. The new species and T. uyenoi are both endemic to Thailand, distributed along the Northwest Thai (Dawna) Uplands of Indochina. To clarify the species boundary between Tylototriton umphangensis sp. nov. and T. uyenoi, additional field research is needed in adjacent areas. Tylototriton umphangensis sp. nov. is restricted to evergreen hill forests in Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary. We suggest that the new species should be classified as Endangered (EN) in the IUCN Red List.
["conservation"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Nine new species of the spider family Araneidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China
Nine new species of the orb-weaver spider family Araneidae Clerck, 1757 from Menglun Town, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China are described: Acusilas tongi sp. nov. (♂♀), Chorizopes yui sp. nov. (♂♀), Chorizopesoides guoi sp. nov. (♂♀), Deione cheni sp. nov. (♀), D. yangi sp. nov. (♂♀), Hypsosinga pulla sp. nov. (♂♀), Mangora baii sp. nov. (♂♀), M. cephala sp. nov. (♂♀) and Milonia gemella sp. nov. (♂♀). The genus Milonia Thorell, 1890 is recorded from China for the first time. The previous description of Chorizopesoides wulingensis (Yin, Wang & Xie, 1994) from Libo County, Guizhou by Mi and Wang (2018) refers to Chorizopesoides annasestakovae sp. nov. (♂♀). Diagnostic photos of the habitus and copulatory organs of the new species are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Taxonomic study on fourteen symphytognathid species from Asia (Araneae, Symphytognathidae)
Fourteen symphytognathid species belonging to three genera are examined, including the descriptions of eight new species and two new genera from China, Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar: Patu Marples, 1951: P. catba S. Li & Lin, sp. nov. (♂, Vietnam), P. dakou S. Li & Lin, sp. nov. (♂♀, China), P. damtao S. Li & Lin, sp. nov. (♂, Vietnam), P. jiangzhou S. Li & Lin, sp. nov. (♀, China), P. jidanweishi Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009 (♂♀, China), P. nagarat S. Li & Lin, sp. nov. (♂♀, Thailand), P. nigeri Lin & S. Li, 2009 (♀, China), P. putao S. Li & Lin, sp. nov. (♀, Myanmar), P. qiqi Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009 (♀, China) and P. xiaoxiao Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009 (♂♀, China); Kirinua S. Li & Lin, gen. nov.: K. maguai S. Li & Lin, sp. nov. (♂♀, China) and K. yangshuo S. Li & Lin, sp. nov. (♂♀, China); Swilda S. Li & Lin, gen. nov.: S. longtou (Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009), comb. nov. (♂♀, China) is transferred from Crassignatha Wunderlich, 1995 and S. spinathoraxi (Lin & S. Li, 2009), comb. nov. (♂♀, China) is transferred from Patu. Diagnoses, descriptions and illustrations are provided for new taxa, as well as a distribution map. The males of P. xiaoxiao and S. longtou are described for the first time. Type specimens of P. jidanweishi, P. nigeri, P. qiqi, P. xiaoxiao, S. longtou and S. spinathoraxi are re-examined and photographed. All Asian Patu species are revised and two species, P. kishidai Shinkai, 2009 and P. bispina Lin, Pham & S. Li, 2009, are transferred to Crassignatha and proposed as new combinations: Crassignatha kishidai comb. nov. and C. bispina comb. nov. In addition, DNA barcodes and genetic distances of ten species treated in this paper were obtained to confirm identification.
["Dwarf orb-weavers"]

New genetic data reveals a new species of Zospeum in Bosnia (Gastropoda, Ellobioidea, Carychiinae)
Recent integrative investigations of the terrestrial ellobiid genus, Zospeum, have revealed significant findings concerning its Alpine-Dinaric evolution and taxonomy. Due to the expected discrepancy between the useful, but limited, 1970s’ classification system based on shell data and the results of recent genetic analyses in the latest investigation, a revision of the entire radiation was undertaken, and a new classification system was devised by the present authors in an earlier paper. Concurrent to this work, molecular sequences from two Austrian caves were published independently of our revision by another research group. By incorporating these genetic data within our phylogenetic framework here, we show that the Austrian individuals are genetically most similar to Zospeum amoenum and consequently, classify them within that species. We additionally reveal two new genetic lineages from the largely under-sampled southern extension of Zospeum’s known distributional range. The first lineage, deriving from the region of Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a potential candidate for genetically clarifying Zospeum troglobalcanicum. The second lineage derives from the municipality of Tomislavgrad, Bosnia-Herzegovina and is herein, described a new species: Zospeum simplex Inäbnit, Jochum & Neubert, sp. nov.
["Dinarides"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the genus Takobia Novikova & Kluge, 1987 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) in Central Asia
Based on the original type material, the nymphal stage of the mayfly Takobia maxillare is redescribed; in parallel, a lectotype is designated. Takobia maxillare is the type species of the genus Takobia, and an accurate and complete knowledge of its morphology is crucial to the delimitation of this problematic genus and clarification of its phylogenetic affinities. Ambiguous characters, previously reported for this species in the literature are clarified. Furthermore, two new species in the same genus are described, namely Takobia sinusopalpata sp. nov. and Takobia shughnonica sp. nov. based on the morphology of nymphs from Central Asia, supplemented with COI sequences. Implications for the systematics of Takobia and related taxa are discussed and the need for an extensive phylogenetic study of this group is stressed.
["Alainites"]

Helen’s twins in the Balkans: discovery of two new Paraptychoptera Tonnoir, 1919 species closely related to P. helena Peus, 1958, with systematic revision of the “lacustris” group (Diptera, Ptychopteridae)
Ptychoptera castor Keresztes & Kappert, sp. nov. and P. pollux Keresztes & Török, sp. nov. both belong to the subgenus Ptychoptera (Paraptychoptera) Tonnoir (1919) and are described from boggy headwaters in the south Balkan area. These new species are closely related to the range-restricted P. helena Peus, 1958, which is known only from Oiti village, Mount Oeta, Phthioitis region, Greece and, together with P. lacustris, forms a morphologically well-defined unit in the subgenus Paraptychoptera. Based on cladistic analyses of 53 different morphological characters using the male antenna, wing, and genital structures, a general revision of the “lacustris” group is proposed with a dichotomous key of Paraptychoptera species.
["Cladistics analyses"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Another Laurasian connection in the Early Eocene of India: Myrmecarchaea spiders (Araneae, Archaeidae)
The first fossil Archaeidae in Cambay amber from India, of Eocene age, is documented. The inclusion is a spider exuvium and is placed as Myrmecarchaea based on the presence of elongated legs, a slightly elongated pedicel with lateral spurs, and a diastema between coxae III and IV that is similar to M. antecessor from Oise amber. The previous occurrences of the genus are from Baltic and Oise amber, both of Eocene age. Because most spiders, including Archaeidae, only molt as juveniles, the exuvium does not have adult features nor have distinct species-specific features, and a new taxon is not erected. This new record further extends the distribution of the family and genus to India 50–52 million years ago. Myrmecarchaea in Indian Cambay amber provides additional evidence that India in the Early Eocene had affinities with the Palearctic mainland rather than showing Gondwanan insularity.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Morphological and molecular identification of arrhenotokous strain of Diglyphus wani (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) found in China as a control agent against agromyzid leafminers
Diglyphus species are ecologically and economically important on agromyzid leafminers. In 2018, a thelytokous species, Diglyphus wani Liu, Zhu & Yefremova, was firstly reported and described. Subsequently, the arrhenotokous D. wani were discovered in Yunnan and Guizhou Provinces of China. We compared the morphological characteristics of thelytokous and arrhenotokous strains. However, the females of two strains had a strongly similar morphology and showed subtle differences in fore- and hind-wings. The difference was that forewing of arrhenotokous female was with denser setae overall, showing that costal cell with 2 ~ 4 rows of setae on dorsal surface and the setae of basal cell with 15 ~ 21 hairs and forewing of thelytokous female was with two rows of setae on dorsal surface and basal cell with 10 ~ 15 hairs generally. The setation beneath the marginal vein of the hind-wing of arrhenotokous female is denser than the same area of thelytokous female. To explore the genetic divergence between thelytokous and arrhenotokous strains of D. wani, the mitochondrial and nuclear gene were applied and sequenced. The polygenic analyses revealed that two strains can be distinguished by COI, ITS1 and ITS2. The mean sequence divergence between the two strains was 0.052, 0.010 and 0.007, respectively. Nevertheless, the 28S gene was unfeasible due to its containing a sharing haplotype between different strains. The two strains of D. wani are dominant parasitoids against agromyzid leafminers and such effective discernible foundation provides future in-depth studies on biological characteristics, along with insight into field application of two strains of D. wani.
["Arrhenotoky"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

A review of tangle-veined flies (Nemestrinidae, Diptera) in Egypt
The Egyptian fauna of the genus Nemestrinus Latreille, 1802 is revised. In 1967, Steyskal and El-Bialy listed 12 species from the region, but only six species are now recognized. The primary type specimens of the species N. aegyptiacus (Wiedemann, 1828), N. rufipes (Olivier, 1810), and N. lateralis Wiedemann, 1828 (N. lateralis being a synonym of N. rufipes) deposited in the Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin, Germany were examined. Two species (N. abdominalis Olivier, 1811 and N. fascifrons (Bigot, 1888) are placed as new synonyms of N. ater (Olivier, 1811), and N. ruficornis Macquart, 1840 is synonymized with N. rufipes (Olivier, 1811). Nemestrinus jullieni (Efflatoun, 1925) is confirmed as a synonym of N. aegyptiacus. Furthermore, three species (N. caucasicus Fischer, 1806, N. pallipes (Olivier, 1811), and N. persicus Lichtwardt, 1909) have been removed and are doubtful records from Egypt. A key to the species, lists of specimens examined, and Illustrations and distributions for each species are provided. The status of species of doubtful occurrence in Egypt is discussed.

First report of Eutrichosomella Girault (Hymenoptera, Aphelinidae) from China, with description of a new species
The genus Eutrichosomella Girault is recorded for the first time from China (Yunnan Province), and Eutrichosomella yunnanensis sp. nov. (♀, ♂) is described and illustrated. A distribution map of this genus is presented.
["Aphelininae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

New species of the genus Spio (Annelida, Spionidae) from the southern and western coasts of Korea
A new spionid polychaete, Spio pigmentata sp. nov., is described from the southern and western coasts of Korea. This new species differs from its congeners by the combination of the following morphological characteristics: the presence of orange-brown pigmentation on the anterior part of the prostomium, black pigmentation on the peristomium and along the body, U-shaped nuchal organs, a comparatively long extension of metameric dorsal ciliated organs, three pairs of white dots per chaetiger, two to three posterior abranchiate chaetigers, and the presence of tridentate neuropodial hooded hooks. The partial 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and nuclear 18S rDNA sequences of the new species and Spio sp. 2 reported by Abe and Sato-Okoshi (2021) from Japan showed high similarity, indicating that these two specimens belong to the same species. A detailed description and illustrations of the new species, together with molecular information, are provided.
["Korea Strait and Yellow Sea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Two new species of the genus Ptychoptera Meigen, 1803 (Diptera, Ptychopteridae) from Yunnan, China with remarks on the distribution of Chinese species
Sixteen known species of the genus Ptychoptera Meigen, 1803 have been recorded from China, of which three occur in Yunnan Province. Herein, two new species from Yunnan, P. cordata sp. nov. and P. yunnanica sp. nov., are described from China. An updated key to Ptychoptera is presented for all Chinese species.
["Chinese fauna"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Neohagenulus Traver, 1938 from Hispaniola (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae, Hagenulinae, Hagenulini)
Here, I report a new species of the genus Neohagenulus Traver, 1938 from the Dominican Republic. The genus was believed to be endemic to Puerto Rico until now. Neohagenulus hodeceki sp. nov. is described at the nymphal stage. Some discussion on the tribe Hagenulini is also provided.
["Borinquena"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new species of the genus Hylcalosia Fischer (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Alysiinae) from South Korea, with a key to the Korean species
The species of the genus Hylcalosia Fischer, 1967 (Braconidae: Alysiinae) from South Korea are revised. One species, Hylcalosia bicolor sp. nov., is new to science. They are described and illustrated herein and an identification key to the Korean species is added. In addition, the DNA barcode region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) has been analysed for the new species and H. sutchanica is used for genetic comparison.
["COI barcode"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new species of Byrrhinus Motschulsky, 1858 (Coleoptera, Limnichidae, Limnichinae) from Negros, Philippines
Two new species of Limnichidae beetles, Byrrhinus negrosensis sp. nov. and Byrrhinus villarini sp. nov., are described from the Island of Negros in the Philippines. The adult specimens of the new species can be differentiated by patterns of body punctation, colour and orientation of elytral pubescence, posterolateral angle of pronotum, tarsomere length ratio and aedeagal form. Two clades, representing the two new species, were retrieved in the Maximum Likelihood gene tree using the 3’-end of the COI gene. Maximum genetic divergence within B. negrosensis sp. nov. and B. villarini sp. nov. were recorded to be 2.3% and 1.3%, respectively, while the mean interspecific divergence between the two new species was 19.7%. Morphological descriptions, digital photographs and COI sequences were provided for the two species. The state of knowledge of Byrrhinus is reviewed and an updated Philippine checklist is provided. By coupling morphological and molecular data, this paper provides the first additional new species of Philippine Byrrhinus in the last 28 years.
["Biodiversity assessment"]

Additions to the cuckoo wasps (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae) of Mongolia, with description of eleven new species
An addendum to the recent checklist of the Chrysididae from Mongolia is given. Examination of old museum material and recently collected specimens has led to the discovery of eight new records for the country and eleven new species for science. Eight species are newly recorded from Mongolia: Chrysis inclinata Linsenmaier, 1959, C. martinella du Buysson, 1900, C. speciosa Radoszkowski, 1877, Euchroeus purpuratus (Fabricius, 1787), Holopyga lucida (Lepeletier, 1806), H. similis Mocsáry, 1889, Hedychridium femoratum (Dahlbom, 1854) and H. leleji Rosa, 2017. Two species, Hedychridium cupreum (Dahlbom, 1845) and H. propodeale Rosa, 2017 are excluded from the checklist of Mongolian Chrysididae: the former is described here as H. erythrosoma sp. nov., the latter is identified as H. leleji Rosa, 2017. The hitherto unknown male of Chrysis mocsaryi Radoszkowski, 1889 is described and illustrated. Eleven new species are described: Chrysis strakai sp. nov., C. woodi sp. nov., Hedychridium erythrosoma sp. nov., H. frontale sp. nov., H. jacobsi sp. nov., H. splendens sp. nov., H. striatum sp. nov., H. varvarae sp. nov., H. weii sp. nov., Holopyga tyrneri sp. nov., and Philoctetes boreki sp. nov. Keys to males and females of all known Mongolian species of Hedychridium Abeille de Perrin, 1878 are provided. The Mongolian cuckoo wasp fauna now comprises 107 species in 18 genera and two subfamilies.
["Taxonomy"]

Revision of the genus Cenophengus LeConte, 1881 (Coleoptera, Phengodidae), with the description of four new species, new geographic records and a new synonymy
A taxonomic revision of the genus Cenophengus LeConte, 1881 (Coleoptera: Phengodidae) is provided, including new data on geographic ranges of the species. This is the first time this genus has been recorded for Belize and in Honduras. Four new species (C. gardunoi, C. saasil, C. tsiik and C. zuritai) are described and a new synonymy (C. guerrerensis, Zaragoza-Caballero, 1991 = C. major Wittmer, 1976) is established. The study includes a key to the 30 valid species, diagnoses, descriptions, photographs and distribution maps.

Four new species of the jumping spider genus Portia (Araneae, Salticidae) from China
We diagnose and describe four new species of Portia Karsch, 1878 and describe for the first time the male of P. zhaoi Peng, Li & Chen, 2003 from China based on morphological characters. The females of Portia bawang sp. nov. have the narrowest epigyne orifice. The males of Portia erlangping sp. nov. have the shortest embolus among all the species. The females of Portia fajing sp. nov. can be distinguished from other species by the anterior orifice margin, which is nearly parallel to the posterior orifice margin. The males of Portia xishan sp. nov. can be identified by the tegular furrow which extends to form a membrane and by the tegular apophysis which is obscured; the females of Portia xishan sp. nov. can be diagnosed by the slit-like epigynal orifice. The males of P. zhaoi have the longest embolus among all the species, and females can be diagnosed by the circular epigyne orifice and the longest copulatory ducts. To facilitate future identification, we also provide the GenBank accession codes of the DNA barcode gene, Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), for all the type specimens.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of Epeorus (Caucasiron) (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) from Azerbaijan and Iran
A new species, Epeorus (Caucasiron) hyrcanicus sp. nov., is described based on larval morphology and molecular data (COI) containing sequences from all Caucasian Caucasiron species described to date. The species is distributed in the Hyrcanian forest of southeastern Azerbaijan and northwestern Iran. Based on our wide-range sampling, the new species is likely endemic to this area. The most pronounced larval morphological diagnostic characters are the coloration pattern of abdominal sterna (a pair of oblique stripes and stripe-like medio-lateral maculae) and terga (triangular medial maculae), poorly developed projection of the costal margin of gill plates III, presence of hair-like setae on the surface of abdominal terga, and relatively wide shape of gill plates VII (in natural position from ventral view). The diagnostic characters are compared to related species, and primary information to habitat is provided.
["Caucasus"]

A new species and a new species record of Orbiniidae Hartman, 1942 (Annelida, Polychaeta) from China
A new species of the orbiniid genus Phylo Kinberg, 1866, P. heterochaetus sp. nov., is described based on material collected from the northern Yellow Sea, China. This is the thirteenth species in Phylo. The new species can be easily identified by the combination of the following characters: anterior thorax with 13 chaetigers, interramal cirri absent, anterior thoracic neuropodia with 4 or 5 rows of uncini, intermixed with a few subuluncini in the first 1 or 2 rows, and a ventral fringe of numerous stomach papillae present on chaetigers 12–24. Phylo fimbriata is recorded for the first time from China seas.
["China Seas"]

New species of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge from Southeast Asia and New Guinea (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Material collected between 2006 and 2016 in Borneo, Sulawesi, and New Guinea further increased our knowledge of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in these regions. Five species were previously reported from Borneo, two from Sulawesi, and 33 from New Guinea. Six new species have been identified using a combination of morphology and genetic distance (COI, Kimura 2-parameter), one species from Borneo (Brunei), one from Sulawesi, and four from New Guinea. They are described and illustrated based on their larvae and keys to the species of the relevant groups are provided. Additionally, new reports, a complementary description, and the COI sequence for L. dendrisetis Kaltenbach & Gattolliat are presented. The distribution of Labiobaetis in the Wallacea region is discussed based on the new findings. The total number of Labiobaetis species worldwide is augmented to 153.

First description of the female of Sinopoda yichangensis Zhu, Zhong & Yang, 2020 (Araneae, Sparassidae)
Sinopoda yichangensis Zhu, Zhong & Yang, 2020 was described from a single male from Qiaoliao Village, Hubei Province, China. To date, no additional specimens have been recorded. The female is reported for the first time from the type locality. Detailed morphological descriptions of the female, with photographs of living specimens and copulatory organs, are provided.

A new species of Petta (Annelida, Pectinariidae), with comments on Petta assimilis McIntosh, 1885
The genus Petta Malmgren, 1866 is a small and poorly known genus of the annelid family Pectinariidae Quatrefages, 1866. A previous revision of the genus found that the type material of the species P. assimilis McIntosh, 1885 had been lost. While searching for material from the type locality, we were able to examine material from a similar area but collected in much shallower water from off South Africa which represents another undescribed species of Petta. The new species, Petta brevis sp. nov., is described and compared to P. assimilis McIntosh, 1885, and a revised key to all species in the genus is provided.
["Indian Ocean"]

Behningiidae and Potamanthidae (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) in Thailand
The aim of this study is to review the family Behningiidae and Potamanthidae in Thailand. Two genera and three species of Behningiidae are recognised: Protobehningia merga Peters & Gillies, 1991, Behningia baei McCafferty & Jacobus, 2006, and Behningia nujiangensis Zhou & Bisset, 2019, which is newly reported from Thailand. The egg structure of B. nujiangensis is described for the first time using scanning electron microscopy. The larva of P. merga is redescribed and its distribution is expended northward with a new record from Chiang Mai province. Two genera and five species of Potamanthidae are identified: Potamanthus formosus Eaton, 1892, Rhoenanthus magnificus Ulmer, 1920 (new record for Thailand), Rhoenanthus obscurus Navás, 1922, Rhoenanthus distafurcus Bae & McCafferty, 1991, and Rhoenanthus speciosus Eaton, 1881. Our morphological evidence is supported by COI data for the family Potamanthidae. Diagnostic characters, distributions, and keys are presented for the larvae of all known species of Thai behningiid and potamanthid mayflies.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

An overview of Estonian woodlice (Isopoda, Oniscidea)
An overview of the Estonian terrestrial isopod fauna is given, based on literature data and material collected from 1984 to 2021. The identified material consisted of 10915 specimens belonging to 14 species and collected from 172 localities throughout Estonia. In combination with previous data from the literature data, there are now reliable records of 16 species of woodlice from Estonia. Two species, viz. Platyarthrus hoffmannseggii Brandt, 1833 and Hyloniscus riparius (C. Koch, 1838), are new for the fauna. The latter has probably colonised Estonia recently and range expansions have been reported elsewhere. The data on Philoscia muscorum (Scopoli, 1763) are dubious, and this species is currently excluded from the Estonian list.
["Estonia"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Twelve new species of Dipara Walker, 1833 (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae, Diparinae) from Kenya, with a key to the Afrotropical species
Based on 261 female specimens of the genus Dipara Walker, 1833 from leaf litter samples of the Kakamega Forest in Kenya, we describe the following twelve new species: Dipara andreabalzerae sp. nov., Dipara corona sp. nov., Dipara fastigata sp. nov., Dipara kakamegensis sp. nov., Dipara lux sp. nov., Dipara nigroscutellata sp. nov., Dipara nyani sp. nov., Dipara reticulata sp. nov., Dipara rodneymulleni sp. nov., Dipara sapphirus sp. nov., Dipara tenebra sp. nov., and Dipara tigrina sp. nov. For Dipara albomaculata (Hedqvist, 1963) and Dipara nigrita Hedqvist, 1969, we give new distribution records. We examined the available type material of all described Dipara species from the Afrotropical mainland, i.e., Dipara albomaculata (Hedqvist, 1963), Dipara machadoi (Hedqvist, 1971), Dipara maculata (Hedqvist, 1963), Dipara nigrita Hedqvist, 1969, Dipara pallida (Hedqvist, 1969), Dipara punctulata (Hedqvist, 1969), Dipara saetosa (Delucchi, 1962), Dipara straminea (Hedqvist, 1969), Dipara striata (Hedqvist, 1969), and Dipara turneri Hedqvist, 1969. We provide figures, descriptions, and diagnoses of the newly described species and figures and diagnoses of the ten known species as well as an identification key to all species of the Afrotropical mainland.
["Morphometry"]

The giant pill-millipede genus Zephronia Gray, 1832 from Thailand, with a redescription of Z. siamensis Hirst, 1907 and descriptions of three new species (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida, Zephroniidae)
Material of the giant pill-millipede genus Zephronia Gray, 1832 recently collected from Thailand contains three new species: Zephronia enghoffi sp. nov., Zephronia golovatchi sp. nov., and Zephronia panhai sp. nov. The first Zephronia species recorded for Thailand, Z. siamensis Hirst, 1907, is also redescribed based on new specimens collected both from the type locality in Chonburi Province and from neighboring areas. Morphological characters of all new species, Z. phrain Likhitrakarn & Golovatch, 2021, and Z. siamensis are illustrated, and a distribution map of the confirmed Zephronia species occurring in Thailand is also provided.
["Diplopods"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Azooxanthellate Scleractinia (Cnidaria, Anthozoa) from South Africa
Globally, South Africa ranks in the top five countries regarding marine species richness per unit area. Given the high diversity, it is not surprising that many invertebrate taxa in the region are poorly characterised. The South African azooxanthellate Scleractinia (Anthozoa) is one such taxonomic group, and was last reviewed by Boshoff in 1980. Although more recent regional publications have reported on some species, there has not been a faunistic review that accounts for the country’s species diversity since then. Moreover, numerous unidentified specimens representing more than three decades of sampling effort have accumulated. In this study the authors update the state of knowledge of South African azooxanthellate coral species. Specimens, particularly those within the extensive collections of the Iziko South African and Smithsonian museums, were morphologically examined and identified. Other data considered included historic data represented as imagery data, associated species data from recent research surveys, and the scientific literature. To date, the study has increased the total number of known species from 77 to 108 across eleven families, 28 new South African records, and three are new species with one new genus.
["Ahermatypic"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

On the brink of extinction: a new freshwater amphipod Jesogammarus acalceolus (Anisogammaridae) from Japan
Freshwater habitats, especially cold springs, are environments in which the risk of extinction faced by organisms remains high due to human activities. To conserve endangered species, it is important to describe and name them. Here, a new, endangered freshwater anisogammarid amphipod species, Jesogammarus (Jesogammarus) acalceolus sp. nov., found in a spring in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, is described which is potentially the sole remaining habitat of this species. Both morphological and molecular phylogenetic results strongly support the nesting of the new species within Jesogammarus. Jesogammarus (J.) acalceolus sp. nov. is the first species of genus Jesogammarus that was found to lack a calceolus, a sensory organ located on male antenna 2. Thus, the diagnostic criteria for this genus required amendment. A reconstruction of ancestral calceoli, based on a molecular phylogenetic tree, revealed that the common ancestor of Jesogammarus possessed calceoli, which were secondarily lost in J. (J.) acalceolus sp. nov. Our results indicate that this new species, which is key to clarifying the evolution of the calceolus, is of high conservation significance.
["Ancestral state reconstruction"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A new species of the genus Rana sensu lato Linnaeus, 1758 (Anura, Ranidae) from Wuyi Mountain, Fujian Province, China
A new species of the frog genus Rana sensu lato from Wuyi Mountain, Fujian Province, China is described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses clustered the new species into the R. johnsi group and indicated that it was genetically divergent from its closely related species. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size medium, SVL 41.4–45.6 mm (42.9 ± 1.9 mm, n = 4) in adult males and 47.6–50.3 mm (n = 2) in adult females; adult male with a pair of internal subgular vocal sacs; lateroventral grooves present on tip of toes; webbing on fourth toes reaching the tip of toe; transverse skin ridges distinctly present on the dorsal surface of thigh and tibia, the number large (mean 26.5 ± 2.7, range 22–29, n = 6); breeding males possess creamy white nuptial pad with tiny velvety spines on the dorsal surface of the first finger, divided into three parts.
["Molecular phylogenetic analyses"]

The first Western Palearctic record of Euprosthenops Pocock (Araneae, Pisauridae), with description of a new species from Israel
The primarily Afrotropical genus Euprosthenops Pocock, 1897 is recorded in the Western Palearctic for the first time. A diagnosis and an illustrated description of E. insperatus sp. nov., based on a single male from southern Israel, are provided. Considering the structure of the male palp, the holotype of E. insperatus sp. nov. resembles males of two widespread African species, E. australis Simon, 1898 and E. proximus Lessert, 1916; it differs from them by colouration pattern as well as by the different shapes of the retrolateral tibial apophysis and the palpal sclerites. A short survey of the regional insect and spider genera of the paleotropical origin is also presented.
["Afrotropical"]

On the genus Polypedilum, subgenus Collartomyia, with description of P. (Col.) baishanzuensis sp. nov. from Baishanzu Nature Reserve, China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
A new species of the genus Polypedilum Kieffer, 1912 is described from Baishanzu Nature Reserve, China, based on molecular and morphological data. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on standard barcode sequences confirmed a new clade of Polypedilum (Collartomyia) species. The new species is easily distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: membrane of wing with a large spot occupying 70% of the proximal area; tergite without dark brown band pigmentation; tarsi I–V dark brown; superior volsella with three outer lateral setae and six long setae along inner base; inferior volsella with setose tubercules. An updated key to adult males of the subgenus Collartomyia is also provided.
["Chironominae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Twenty-eight new species of Trigonopterus Fauvel (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) from Central Sulawesi
Here we present 28 new species of Trigonopterus from Central Sulawesi, mostly from Mt Dako and Mt Pompangeo: Trigonopterus acutus sp. nov., T. ancora sp. nov., T. arcanus sp. nov., T. corona sp. nov., T. dakoensis sp. nov., T. daun sp. nov., T. ewok sp. nov., T. gundala sp. nov., T. hoppla sp. nov., T. kakimerah sp. nov., T. katopasensis sp. nov., T. matakensis sp. nov., T. moduai sp. nov., T. mons sp. nov., T. paramoduai sp. nov. T. pomberimbensis sp. nov., T. pompangeensis sp. nov., T. puspoi sp. nov., T. rosichoni sp. nov., T. rubidus sp. nov., T. sarinoi sp. nov., T. sutrisnoi sp. nov., T. tanah sp. nov., T. tejokusumoi sp. nov., T. toboliensis sp. nov., T. tolitoliensis sp. nov., T. tounaensis sp. nov., T. unyil sp. nov. This fills important areas of distribution and brings the number of Trigonopterus species recorded from Sulawesi to 132.
["Celebes"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Annotated catalogue of the Tachinidae (Insecta, Diptera) of Chile
The Tachinidae (Diptera) of Chile are catalogued and information is given on distributions, name-bearing types, synonyms, nomenclatural issues, and pertinent literature. The history of tachinid collectors in Chile and authors who have contributed to the systematic knowledge of Chilean tachinids is extensively reviewed. The classification has been updated and 122 genera and 264 species are recognised in Chile. There is a significant amount of endemism with 28 genera and 100 species known only from Chile. There are also 113 species with distributions shared only between Chile and Argentina, particularly in the southern portions of these countries comprising Patagonia. The catalogue is based on examination of the original descriptions of all nominal species and all other references known to us containing relevant taxonomic and distributional information, for a total of approximately 450 references. Many of the name-bearing types and other Chilean specimens housed in collections were examined. Taxa are arranged hierarchically and alphabetically under the categories of subfamily, tribe, genus, subgenus (where recognised), and species. Nomenclatural information is provided for genus-group and species-group names, including lists of synonyms (mostly restricted to Neotropical taxa) and name-bearing type data. Species distributions are recorded by country within the New World and by larger geographical divisions in the Old World. Additional information is given in the form of notes and references under valid names at the level of tribe, genus, and species. Two genera are newly recorded from Chile: Chaetoepalpus Vimmer & Soukup, 1940 (Tachinini) (also newly recorded from Argentina) and Patelloa Townsend, 1916 (Goniini). Four species are newly recorded from Chile or other countries: Lypha ornata Aldrich, 1934 (Chile); Chaetoepalpus coquilleti Vimmer & Soukup, 1940 (Argentina and Chile); Phytomyptera evanescens (Cortés, 1967) (Argentina); and Xanthobasis unicolor Aldrich, 1934 (Chile). Eight species previously recorded from Chile are deemed to have been misidentified or misrecorded from Chile (known distributions in parentheses): Archytas incertus (Macquart, 1851) (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay); Archytas seminiger (Wiedemann, 1830) (Brazil, Colombia); Gonia crassicornis (Fabricius, 1794) (Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, Middle America, West Indies, Nearctic); Lespesia andina (Bigot, 1888) (Cuba); Lespesia archippivora (Riley, 1871) (widespread Nearctic and most of Neotropical); Neoethilla ignobilis (van der Wulp, 1890) (Mexico, United States); Siphona (Siphona) geniculata (De Geer, 1776) (Palaearctic, Nearctic [introduced]); and Winthemia quadripustulata (Fabricius, 1794) (Palaearctic, Nearctic, Oriental]. As First Reviser we fix Paratheresia rufiventris Townsend, 1929 as the senior homonym and Sarcoprosena rufiventris Townsend, 1929 as the junior homonym when the two are placed together in Billaea Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830; and we fix Mayophorinia angusta Townsend, 1927 as the senior homonym and Metarrhinomyia angusta Townsend, 1927 as the junior homonym when the two are placed together in Myiopharus Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889. New replacement names are proposed for eight preoccupied names of Neotropical species (country of type locality in parentheses): Billaea rufescens O’Hara & Wood for Sarcoprosena rufiventris Townsend, 1929, preoccupied in the genus Billaea Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 by Paratheresia rufiventris Townsend, 1929 (Peru), nom. nov.; Billaea triquetrus O’Hara & Wood for Sarcoprosena triangulifera Townsend, 1927, preoccupied in the genus Billaea Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 by Dexia triangulifera Zetterstedt, 1844 (Peru), nom. nov.; Eucelatoria nudioculata O’Hara & Wood for Eucelatorioidea nigripalpis Thompson, 1968, preoccupied in the genus Eucelatoria Townsend, 1909 by Chetolyga nigripalpis Bigot, 1889 (Trinidad), nom. nov.; Eucelatoria oblonga O’Hara & Wood for Urodexodes elongatum Cortés & Campos, 1974, preoccupied in the genus Eucelatoria Townsend, 1909 by Exorista elongata van der Wulp, 1890 (Chile), nom. nov.; Lespesia thompsoni O’Hara & Wood for Sturmiopsoidea obscura Thompson, 1966, preoccupied in the genus Lespesia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863 by Eurigaster obscurus Bigot, 1857 (Cuba), nom. nov.; Myiopharus charapensis O’Hara & Wood for Metarrhinomyia angusta Townsend, 1927, preoccupied in the genus Myiopharus Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 by Mayophorinia angusta Townsend, 1927 (Peru), nom. nov.; Myiopharus incognitus O’Hara & Wood for Stenochaeta claripalpis Thompson, 1968, preoccupied in the genus Myiopharus Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 by Neoxynopsoidea claripalpis Thompson, 1968 (Trinidad), nom. nov.; and Myiopharus rufopalpus O’Hara & Wood for Paralispe palpalis Townsend, 1929, preoccupied in the genus Myiopharus Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 by Myioxynops palpalis Townsend, 1927 (Peru), nom. nov. New type species fixations are made under the provisions of Article 70.3.2 of the ICZN Code for three genus-group names: Parafabricia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1894 (synonym of Archytas Jaennicke, 1867), type species newly fixed as Parafabricia perplexa Townsend, 1931; Tachinodes Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 (synonym of Archytas Jaennicke, 1867), type species newly fixed as Jurinia metallica Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830; and Willistonia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 (synonym of Belvosia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830), type species newly fixed as Willistonia aldrichi Townsend, 1931. Lectotypes are designated for the following four nominal species, all described or possibly described from Chile: Echinomyia pygmaea Macquart, 1851 (a valid name in the genus Peleteria Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830); Gonia chilensis Macquart, 1844 (a junior synonym of Gonia pallens Wiedemann, 1830); Masicera auriceps Macquart, 1844 (a valid name in the genus Lespesia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863); and Prosopochoeta nitidiventris Macquart, 1851 (a valid name in the genus Prosopochaeta Macquart, 1851). The following 27 new or revived combinations are proposed (distributions in parentheses): Blepharipeza andina Bigot, 1888 is moved to Lespesia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863 as L. andina, nomen dubium (Cuba), comb. nov.; Camposodes evanescens Cortés, 1967 is moved to Phytomyptera Rondani, 1845 as P. evanescens (Argentina, Chile), comb. nov.; Ectophasiopsis ypiranga Dios & Nihei, 2017 is moved to Trichopoda Berthold, 1827 and assigned to subgenus Galactomyia Townsend, 1908 as T. (G.) ypiranga (Argentina, Brazil), comb. nov.; Embiomyia australis Aldrich, 1934 is moved to Steleoneura Stein, 1924 as S. australis (Argentina, Chile), comb. nov.; Eurigaster modestus Bigot, 1857 is moved to Lespesia as L. modesta (Cuba), comb. nov.; Eurigaster obscurus Bigot, 1857 is moved to Lespesia as L. obscura (Cuba), comb. nov.; Macropatelloa tanumeana Townsend, 1931 is moved to Patelloa Townsend, 1916 as P. tanumeana (Argentina, Chile), comb. nov.; Masicera insignis van der Wulp, 1882 is moved to Drino Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863 as D. insignis (Argentina, Chile), comb. nov.; Parasetigena hichinsi Cortés, 1967 is moved to Chetogena Rondani, 1856 as C. hichinsi (Chile), comb. nov.; Parasetigena porteri Brèthes, 1920 and junior synonym Stomatotachina splendida Townsend, 1931 are moved to Chetogena as C. porteri (Chile), both comb. nov.; Phorocera calyptrata Aldrich, 1934 is moved to Admontia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 as A. calyptrata (Argentina, Chile), comb. nov.; Poliops auratus Campos, 1953 is moved to Admontia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 as A. aurata (Chile), comb. nov.; Poliops striatus Aldrich, 1934 is moved to Admontia as A. striata (Argentina, Chile), comb. nov.; Ruiziella frontosa Cortés, 1951 is moved to Chaetoepalpus Vimmer & Soukup, 1940 and placed in synonymy with C. coquilleti Vimmer & Soukup, 1940 (Argentina, Chile, Peru), comb. nov.; Ruiziella luctuosa Cortés, 1951 is moved to Chaetoepalpus as C. luctuosus (Argentina, Chile), comb. nov.; Sarcoprosena luteola Cortés & Campos, 1974 is moved to Billaea Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 as B. luteola (Chile), comb. nov.; Sarcoprosena rufiventris Townsend, 1929 is moved to Billaea where it is a junior secondary homonym and is renamed B. rufescens O’Hara & Wood (Peru), comb. nov.; Sarcoprosena triangulifera Townsend, 1927 is moved to Billaea where it is a junior secondary homonym and is renamed B. triquetrus O’Hara & Wood (Peru),comb. nov.; Saundersia aurea Giglio-Tos, 1893 is moved to “Unplaced species of Tachinini” (Mexico), comb. nov.; Schistostephana aurifrons Townsend, 1919 is moved to Billaea as B. aurifrons (Peru), comb. nov.; Siphoactia charapensis Townsend, 1927 is moved to Clausicella Rondani, 1856 as C. charapensis (Peru), comb. nov.; Siphoactia peregrina Cortés & Campos, 1971 is moved to Clausicella as C. peregrina (Chile), comb. nov.; Sturmia festiva Cortés, 1944 is moved to Drino as D. festiva (Argentina, Chile), comb. nov.; Sturmiopsoidea obscura Thompson, 1966 is moved to Lespesia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863, where it is a junior secondary homonym and is renamed L. thompsoni O’Hara & Wood (Trinidad), comb. nov.; Trichopoda arcuata Bigot, 1876 is returned to Trichopoda from Ectophasiopsis Townsend, 1915 and assigned to subgenus Galactomyia (Argentina, Chile), comb. revived; and Trichopoda gradata Wiedemann, 1830 is returned to Trichopoda from Ectophasiopsis and assigned to subgenus Galactomyia (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay), comb. revived. New or revived generic and specific synonymies are proposed for the following 14 names: Camposodes Cortés, 1967 with Phytomyptera Rondani, 1845, syn. nov.; Ectophasiopsis Townsend, 1915 with Trichopoda Berthold, 1827, subgenus Galactomyia Townsend, 1908, syn. nov.; Embiomyia Aldrich, 1934 with Steleoneura Stein, 1924, syn. nov.; Fabricia andicola Bigot, 1888 with Peleteria robusta (Wiedemann, 1830), syn. revived; Macropatelloa Townsend, 1931 with Patelloa Townsend, 1916, syn. nov.; Peleteria inca Curran, 1925 with Peleteria robusta (Wiedemann, 1830), syn. revived; Poliops Aldrich, 1934 with Admontia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889, syn. nov.; Ruiziella Cortés, 1951 with Chaetoepalpus Vimmer & Soukup, 1940, syn. nov.; Ruiziella frontosa Cortés, 1951 with Chaetoepalpus coquilleti Vimmer & Soukup, 1940, syn. nov.; Sarcoprosena Townsend, 1927 with Billaea Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, syn. nov.; Schistostephana Townsend, 1919 with Billaea, syn. nov.; Siphoactia Townsend, 1927 with Clausicella Rondani, 1856, syn. nov.; Stomatotachina Townsend, 1931 with Chetogena Rondani, 1856, syn. nov.; and Sturmiopsoidea Thompson, 1966 with Lespesia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863, syn. nov.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new species of Pseudosinella Schäffer, 1897 (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from Hungary and Romania, with redescription of the related species Pseudosinella huetheri Stomp, 1971
A new species of the genus Pseudosinella Schäffer, 1897 from Hungary and Romania is described and illustrated. Pseudosinella hartnerae sp. nov. belongs to the group with 5+5 eyes, and can be identified by its unique labial chaetotaxy (M1m2rel1L2) within this group. Pseudosinella huetheri Stomp, 1971, the closest related species sharing the same dorsal macrochaetae formula (R0R1R2001/00/0101+2), is also redescribed here based on the holotype. Comparative analysis between the two species and among other related species is provided.

Gelechia omelkoi sp. nov. – a new species from the Russian Altai Mountains related to the Nearctic Gelechia mandella Busck, 1904 (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae), with a synopsis of Gelechia from the Altai Republic of Russia
Gelechia omelkoi sp. nov. is described from the Ukok plateau and South Chuisky ridge in the Altai Mountains of Russia. The adult of the new species, including its male genitalia, is illustrated and compared with species most similar in morphology and DNA barcodes—G. sororculella (Hübner, 1817) and G. jakovlevi Krulikovsky, 1905 from the Palaearctic region, as well as G. mandella Busck, 1904 from Canada. This last species is redescribed based on adult specimens, including the genitalia of both sexes, and a lectotype is designated. Gelechia sirotina Omelko, 1986 is recorded from the Altai Republic for the first time. An updated list of six species of Gelechia from the Altai Mountains of Russia is given. Dorsal habitus photographs of all species are provided. The male genitalia of the lectotype of G. jakovlevi is illustrated for the first time.
["Canada"]

Revision of the genus Niphta (Diptera, Thaumaleidae) Theischinger of South America, with descriptions of nine new species and a new immature morphotype
The Niphta Theischinger fauna of South America is revised to include 11 species, nine of which are described as new to science (N. acus Pivar, sp. nov., N. bifurcata Pivar & Moulton, sp. nov., N. bispinosa Pivar & Sinclair, sp. nov., N. brunnea Pivar, sp. nov., N. courtneyi Pivar, sp. nov., N. daniellae Pivar, sp. nov., N. downesi Pivar, sp. nov., N. eurydactyla Pivar, sp. nov., N. mapuche Pivar, sp. nov.). The genus Niphta is redefined, both previously described Chilean species are redescribed, N. halteralis (Edwards) and N. nudipennis (Edwards), and females are described or redescribed where possible. The first descriptions of the immature stages of South American Niphta are provided, which represent a new larval morphotype in Thaumaleidae, as larvae and pupae possess ventral adhesive structures. Furthermore, these larvae were collected from vegetation rather than rocky substrates. Illustrations and micrographs are provided for all species, and scanning electron microscopy images are included for select immatures. A key to species, distribution maps, and discussions regarding phylogenetic affinities and habitat are also included.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Revision of the Chinese species of subgenus Koreonialoe (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Pterostichus), with descriptions of two new species
The Chinese species of subgenus Koreonialoe Park & Kwon, 1996 of the genus Pterostichus are revised, including four species from the eastern part of Jilin and Liaoning provinces. Two new species are described: Pterostichus (Koreonialoe) micropoides sp. nov. (type locality: Jilin, Changbai county), and Pterostichus (Koreonialoe) tetralobatus sp. nov. (type locality: Liaoning, Xiuyan county). Pterostichus (Koreonialoe) bellatrix (Tschitschérine) is newly recorded from China (Jilin). The subgenus Koreonialoe is classified into two groups on account of their differences on the endophallus, and all Chinese species accord with the microps group defined herein. A key to all six species in the microps group is provided.
["Endophallus"]

Amphibians of the equatorial seasonally dry forests of Ecuador and Peru
Seasonally dry forests (SDFs) are one of the most challenging ecosystems for amphibians, fueling the diversity of this group of vertebrates. An updated inventory of native amphibians present in the Equatorial SDF is provided, which extends along the Pacific coast of Ecuador and northwestern Peru. The study is based on an extensive field sampling (two thirds of the total records) carried out throughout the Equatorial SDF, along with a compilation of the available information on distribution of amphibians in the region from published scientific papers, museum collections and on-line databases. The final dataset included 2,032 occurrence records for 30 amphibian species, belonging to eight anuran families. Additionally, data regarding conservation status, habitat use, spawn deposition site, reproductive mode, and body size, along with an identification key for all encountered species are provided. The results indicate a strong sampling bias with a deficit in the Peruvian part of the study area, and a need for urgent inventories targeted at under-sampled areas, using modern taxonomic methods. The study emphasizes the conservation priorities in the Equatorial SDF, based on the distribution, conservation status and life-history data. This information should be useful for the local authorities and institutions involved in the management and conservation of biodiversity in SDF.
["Annotated list"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

Marine diversity in the biosphere reserve of the most oceanic island in the Gulf of California: San Pedro Mártir
San Pedro Mártir island is of high biological, ecological, and fishery importance and was declared a biosphere reserve in 2002. This island is the most oceanic in the Gulf of California, and information on its rocky reefs is scarce. The present study aimed to generate the first list of conspicuous invertebrate and fish species based on in situ observations and to examine the community structure of the shallow rocky reefs of the reserve. In addition, we estimated the ecological indicators of richness, abundance, Shannon diversity, and Pielou evenness to evaluate the conservation status of the biosphere reserve. Data were collected annually from 2007 to 2017 through 2,192 underwater SCUBA transects. A total of 35 species of invertebrates and 73 species of fish were recorded. Most of the species are widely distributed along the eastern Pacific. Overall, 64% of the species found in this study are commercially important, and 11 species have been listed as protected. The abundance of commercially important invertebrate species (i.e., the sea cucumber Isostichopus fuscus and the spiny oyster Spondylus limbatus) is decreasing, while commercially important fish species have maintained their abundance with periods of increase. The ecological indicators and the abundance and size of the commercial species indicate that the reserve is in good condition while meeting its conservation objectives.
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

On ten species of jumping spiders from Xishuangbanna, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
Nine new species of jumping spiders from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden are described: Euochin yaoi sp. nov. (♀♂), Laufeia banna sp. nov. (♀♂), Marengo tangi sp. nov. (♀♂), Myrmarachne liui sp. nov. (♀♂), Nandicius proszynskii sp. nov. (♂), Phintelloides pengi sp. nov. (♀♂), Poecilorchestes zhengi sp. nov. (♀♂), Rhene wandae sp. nov. (♂) and Simaetha cheni sp. nov. (♀♂). The female of Chinattus inflatus Wang & Li, 2020 is described for the first time.
["East Asia"]

On the clubionid spiders (Araneae, Clubionidae) from Xishuangbanna, China, with descriptions of two new genera and seven new species
Clubionid spiders from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China are studied. A total of seven genera and 13 species have been found, including two new genera with one new species each, i.e., Ramosatidia Yu & Li, gen. nov., with R. situ Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) as the type species and Sinostidia Yu & Li, gen. nov., with S. shuangjiao Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) as the type species. Five additional new species are Sinostidia dujiao Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), Matidia xieqian Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), Nusatidia changao Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), N. mianju Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♀), and N. subjavana Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♀). The following genera and species are reported from China for the first time: Malamatidia Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001, Pteroneta Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001, Malamatidia zu Jäger & Dankittipakul, 2010, Nusatidia aeria (Simon, 1897), N. camouflata Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001, Porrhoclubiona pteronetoides (Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001), and Pteroneta ultramarina (Ono, 1989). Malamatidia christae Jäger & Dankittipakul, 2010 syn. nov. is a junior synonym of Malamatidia zu. Nusatidia rama Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 syn. nov. is synonymised with N. aeria (Simon, 1897).

Unexpected diversity in Central European Vespoidea (Hymenoptera, Mutillidae, Myrmosidae, Sapygidae, Scoliidae, Tiphiidae, Thynnidae, Vespidae), with description of two species of Smicromyrme Thomson, 1870
The present study presents DNA barcoding results for 134 species of Central European Vespoidea, families Mutillidae, Myrmosidae, Sapygidae, Scoliidae, Tiphiidae, Thynnidae, and Vespidae, including DNA barcodes for 100 of the 114 German species. DNA barcoding resulted in unexpected diversity in several families, each with two or more genetic clusters identified by Barcode Index Numbers (BINs). Smicromyrme burgeri Schmid-Egger, sp. nov. and S. langobardensis Schmid-Egger, sp. nov. are described as new from Germany and Italy, respectively. A neotype is designated for Smicromyrme rufipes (Fabricius, 1878). The results of DNA barcoding are discussed in respect to detecting cryptic species and refining species limits.
["Aculeata"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new insular species of the Cyrtodactylus pulchellus group (Reptilia, Gekkonidae) from Tarutao Island, southern Thailand revealed by morphological and genetic evidence
The bent-toed geckos of the Cyrtodactylus pulchellus group are widely distributed along the Thai-Malay Peninsula. Although taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of this species group have been continuously conducted, only some populations from Thailand have been included, resulting in hidden diversity within this group. In this study, we used morphological and molecular data to clarify the taxonomic status and describe a new population from Tarutao Island, Satun Province, southern Thailand. Cyrtodactylus stellatus sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by the combination of the following morphological characters: body size; tuberculation; number of dark body bands, ventral scales, and femoroprecloacal pores in males; presence of precloacal pores in females; and scattered pattern on dorsum. Phylogenetic analyses of the mitochondrial ND2 gene recovered the new species as the sister species to C. astrum, with an uncorrected pairwise divergence of 9.78–12.37%. Cyrtodactylus stellatus sp. nov. is currently only known from Tarutao Island, Thailand. The discovery of this species suggests that the diversity within the C. pulchellus group remains underestimated and future exploration of unsurveyed areas are needed to further the understanding of this group and its geographic range.
["Cyrtodactylus astrum"]

A new species of freshwater crab of the genus Nanhaipotamon Bott, 1968 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura, Potamidae) from Longhai, Fujian Province, China
A new species of freshwater crab of the genus Nanhaipotamon Bott, 1968 is described from Xiaye Village, Chengxiang Town, Longhai County, Zhangzhou City, Fujian Province, China. The new species is distinguished from congeners by the combination of characters of its carapace, third maxilliped, unequal chelipeds, triangular male abdomen and unique male first gonopod. Molecular evidence derived from partial mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI genes also support the species as new.
["freshwater crab"]

New data on the valvatiform-shelled Hydrobiidae (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea) from southern Greece
The minute valvatiform-shelled Hydrobiidae are less studied than other hydrobiid gastropods. In this paper, new data on these snails are presented, which have been collected at twelve springs in southern Greece: one in Boeotia, one on Evvoia Island, and ten on the Peloponnese Peninsula. Mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and nuclear histone (H3) have been used to confirm the determinations and infer the relationships of the studied gastropods. They represent the genera Daphniola, Graecoarganiella and Isimerope. New localities, expanding the known geographic ranges, have been presented for Daphniola hadei and Daphniola louisi. A species of Daphniola found at two localities has been identified as a species new to science, and its description, including the shell, penis, and female reproductive organs is given. Possible relationships between Graecoarganiella and Isimerope are discussed; their representatives are possibly new species. At one locality a single specimen likely represents a new genus: it was found to be most closely related with Islamia, but genetically (p-distance) too distant to be congeneric with Islamia.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The Herniosina story continues in the Mediterranean: H. calabra sp. nov. from Calabria and H. erymantha Roháček, new female from the Peloponnese (Diptera, Sphaeroceridae)
A study of recently acquired material of Herniosina Roháček, 1983 (Diptera: Sphaeroceridae: Limosininae) in the Mediterranean subregion revealed a new species, H. calabra sp. nov. (Italy: Calabria: Serre Calabresi Mts) and the first females of H. erymantha Roháček, 2016 (Greece: southern Peloponnese: Taygetos Mts). Herniosina calabra sp. nov. (both sexes) and the female of H. erymantha are described and illustrated in detail including structures of terminalia, their relationships are discussed and new information on their biology (habitat association) is given. An update of a key to all know species of Herniosina species is presented.

Molecular phylogenetic analysis of the genus Gloydius (Squamata, Viperidae, Crotalinae), with description of two new alpine species from Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
We provide a molecular phylogeny of Asian pit vipers (the genus Gloydius) based on four mitochondrial genes (12S, 16S, ND4, and cytb). Sequences of Gloydius himalayanus, the only member of the genus that occurs south of the Himalayan range, are included for the first time. In addition, two new species of the genus Gloydius are described based on specimens collected from Zayu, Tibet, west of the Nujiang River and Heishui, Sichuan, east of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The new species, Gloydius lipipengi sp. nov., can be differentiated from its congeners by the combination of the following characters: the third supralabial not reaching the orbit (separated from it by a suborbital scale); wide, black-bordered greyish postorbital stripe extending from the posterior margin of the orbit (not separated by the postoculars, covering most of the anterior temporal scale) to the ventral surface of the neck; irregular black annular crossbands on the mid-body; 23-21-15 dorsal scales; 165 ventral scales, and 46 subcaudal scales. Gloydius swild sp. nov. can be differentiated from its congeners by the narrower postorbital stripe (only half the width of the anterior temporal scale, the lower edge is approximately straight and bordered with white); a pair of arched stripes on the occiput; lateral body lakes black spots; a pair of round spots on the parietal scales; 21 rows of mid-body dorsal scales; zigzag dark brown stripes on the dorsum; 168–170 ventral scales, and 43–46 subcaudal scales. The molecular phylogeny in this study supports the sister relationship between G. lipipengi sp. nov. and G. rubromaculatus, another recently described species from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, more than 500 km away, and indicate the basal position of G. himalayanus within the genus and relatively distant relationship to its congeners.
["Asian pit viper"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Feather mites (Acariformes, Astigmata) from marine birds of the Barton Peninsula (King George Island, Antarctica), with descriptions of two new species
We report on the first investigation of feather mites associated with birds living on the Barton Peninsula (King George Island, Antarctica). We found seven feather mite species of the superfamily Analgoidea from four host species. Two new species are described from two charadriiform hosts: Alloptes (Sternalloptes) antarcticus sp. nov. (Alloptidae) from Stercorarius maccormicki Saunders (Stercorariidae), and Ingrassia chionis sp. nov. (Xolalgidae) from Chionis albus (Gmelin) (Chionidae). Additionally, we provide partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), which was utilized as a DNA barcode, for all seven feather mite species.
["Alloptes"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

The complete mitochondrial genome of Microphysogobio elongatus (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Mitochondria are important organelles with independent genetic material of eukaryotic organisms. In this study, we sequenced and analyzed the complete mitogenome of a small cyprinid fish, Microphysogobio elongatus (Yao & Yang, 1977). The mitogenome of M. elongatus is a typical circular molecule of 16,612 bp in length containing 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and a 930 bp control region. The base composition of the M. elongatus mitogenome is 30.8% A, 26.1% T, 16.7% G, and 26.4% C. All PCGs used the standard ATG start codon with the exception of COI. Six PCGs terminate with complete stop codons, whereas seven PCGs (ND2, COII, ATPase 6, COIII, ND3, ND4, and Cyt b) terminate with incomplete (T or TA) stop codons. All tRNA genes exhibited typical cloverleaf secondary structures with the exception of tRNASer(AGY), for which the dihydrouridine arm forms a simple loop. The phylogenetic analysis divided the subfamily Gobioninae in three clades with relatively robust support, and that Microphysogobio is not a monophyletic group. The complete mitogenome of M. elongatus provides a valuable resource for future studies about molecular phylogeny and/or population genetics of Microphysogobio.
["Gobioninae"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Machine Learning in Bioinformatics"]

Tipula (Vestiplex) crane flies (Diptera, Tipulidae) of Korea
The Korean species of Tipula (Vestiplex) Bezzi, 1924 crane flies are taxonomically revised. Five species are recognized. Tipula (V.) coquillettiana Alexander, 1924, T. (V.) kuwayamai Alexander, 1921, T. (V.) tchukchi Alexander, 1934, and T. (V.) verecunda Alexander, 1924 are newly recorded from the Korean Peninsula, and T. (V.) serricauda Alexander, 1914 was previously recorded. The larva of T. (V.) serricauda is described and illustrated, and the larvae of the subgenus T. (Vestiplex) are divided into four groups based on spiracular lobe morphology. An identification key, redescriptions, and illustrations of Korean T. (Vestiplex) adults and grouping of known larvae are presented.
["distribution"]

First record of the lac-producing species Kerria nepalensis Varshney (Hemiptera, Kerriidae) from China, with a key to Chinese species
Lac insects include astonishing species responsible for lac production. Lac is composed of resins, dyes, and shellac wax with significant economic importance. Previously, 11 species of the genus Kerria were reported from China, with the highest species diversity in Yunnan province. Another lac-producing species of the genus Kerria, namely Kerria nepalensis Varshney, is recorded for the first time in Yunnan province, China, on Dalbergia cochinchinensis Pierre ex Laness. (Fabaceae), a new host plant. In addition, a key to the 12 Kerria species recorded in China is also given.
["Coccoidea"]
["Synthesis and Biological Activity", "Research on scale insects", "Phytochemical compounds biological activities"]

Cotesia cassina sp. nov. from southwestern Colombia: a new gregarious microgastrine wasp (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) reared from the pest species Opsiphanes cassina Felder & Felder (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae) feeding on Elaeis oil palm trees (Arecaceae)
A new species of microgastrine wasp, Cotesia cassina Salgado-Neto, Vásquez & Whitfield, sp. nov., is described from southwestern Colombia in Tumaco, Nariño. This species is a koinobiont gregarious larval endoparasitoid, and spins a common mass of cocoons underneath the host caterpillars of Opsiphanes cassina (Felder & Felder) (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae), feeding on oil palm trees (interspecific hybrid Elaeis oleifera × E. guineensis) (Arecaceae). While superficially similar, both morphologically and biologically, to C. invirae Salgado-Neto & Whitfield from southern Brazil, the two species are distinct based on DNA barcodes, host species, geographical range and morphological characters.
["Butterfly"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A solution to the enigma of the type locality of Telmatobius halli Noble, 1938 (Anura, Telmatobiidae), a frog lost for 86 years
For 80 years, there were no sightings of the Andean frog, Telmatobius halli, due to the ambiguity with which its type locality was described (“warm spring near Ollagüe”, northern Chile). The type specimens were collected during the International High Altitude Expedition to Chile (IHAEC) in 1935 and were subsequently described in 1938. In 2018 and 2020, two studies independently reported the rediscovery of the species, but they reached different conclusions about its identity and geographic distribution. In fact, the populations identified as T. halli in those studies are more phylogenetically related to other species than to each other, so they clearly do not belong to the same taxon. Although the study of 2020 is more in line with the geographic information of the description, it does not consider some bibliographic details and the transport limitations of the IHAEC. Here, based on a detailed analysis of the chronicles of the IHAEC and other bibliographic sources, I first refute the proposals of the 2018 and 2020 studies and then provide a possible solution. The combined information from the chronicles indicates that the type locality of T. halli is found at the sources of the Loa River, a different place from those identified in the two previous studies. By also incorporating geographic information of the time, I conclude that its true type locality is Miño, an abandoned mining camp located near the origin of the Loa River, where currently no populations of the genus have been described.
["Hall\u2019s water frog"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A parasitic insect on a parasitic plant: a new species of the genus Formicoccus Takahashi (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) from Ishigaki Island, Japan
A new species of the genus Formicoccus Takahashi (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) collected from the holoparasitic plant Balanophora fungosa J. R. & G. Forst (Balanophoraceae), on Ishigaki Island, Japan, is described as Formicoccus yoshinoi Tanaka, sp. nov. based on the morphology of adult females. This species is similar to F. formicarius (1900) and F. erythrinae Williams, 2004, but differs from them by having fewer than six cerarii, and only one type of ventral oral collar tubular duct distributed on the medial area of the posterior abdominal segments. Keys to the Oriental species of the genus Formicoccus are provided.
["Research on scale insects", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Amphibians and reptiles of the Atlantic Forest in Recôncavo Baiano, east Brazil: Cruz das Almas municipality
A list of amphibian and reptile species that occur in open and forested areas of the Atlantic Forest in the municipality of Cruz das Almas, in the Recôncavo Baiano, eastern Brazil is presented. Field sampling occurred between January 2015 to March 2019, totalling 117 samples distributed in three areas: Parque Florestal Mata de Cazuzinha, Mata da Cascalheira, and Riacho do Machado. A total of 1,848 individuals of 69 species (31 anurans, 14 lizards, 19 snakes, two amphisbaenians, and three testudines) was recorded. Additionally, one individual of Ophiodes striatus was found in Mata da Cascalheira after the end of sampling, totalling 15 lizard species and 70 herpetofaunal species. The prevalence of open-area species and the presence of Phyllopezus lutzae, Diploglossus lessonae, and Dryadosaura nordestina in interior forest patches are discussed. Additionally, a new record of the invasive terrapin Trachemys dorbigni in the State of Bahia is reported.
["Amphisbaena"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Two new species of the genus Melixanthus Suffrian (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cryptocephalinae) from China
Two new species of the genus Melixanthus Suffrian, 1854 are described from China: M. menglaensis Duan, Wang & Zhou, sp. nov. from Yunnan (also in Vietnam, Tonkin) and M. similibimaculicollis Duan, Wang & Zhou, sp. nov. from Yunnan. Another species, M. rufiventris Pic, 1926, is reported for the first time in China. High-quality color images and line drawings of adult habitus, aedeagus, and other important structures are provided for all three species. The types of the new species are deposited in the collection of Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZ-CAS).
["Cryptocephalini"]

Rare specimen identification in an un-integrated taxonomy: implications of DNA sequences from a Taiwanese Philine (Mollusca, Philinidae)
Many species of the gastropod genus Philine have been named from northeastern Asia but scanty descriptions based predominantly on shells make it difficult to determine which are valid. This, plus the sporadic anatomical and genetic information available for many of these species has led to what may be described as an un-integrated taxonomy. In this situation, it is generally preferable to postpone dissection of rare and unusual specimens until relevant diagnostic characters can be established in broader studies. Micro-CT scanning and DNA sequencing were used to examine such a specimen collected recently from deep waters off northeastern Taiwan. Micro-CT examination of the morphology of the internal shell and gizzard plates suggested that, among named species, the sequenced specimen is most similar to P. otukai. It cannot, however, be definitively referred to P. otukai as that species lacks adequate anatomical description or known DNA sequences. Phylogenetic analyses of newly collected DNA sequences show the specimen to be most closely related to, but distinct from the northern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean species, Philine quadripartita. The sequences also confirm genetically that five or more species of Philine occur in northeast Asia, including at least three subject to considerable taxonomic uncertainty.
["Gizzard plates"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Bombyciella linzhiensis, a new species from southern Xizang, China (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae)
A new species of the genus Bombyciella Draudt, 1950, Bombyciella linzhiensis sp. nov., is described from the Linzhi (Nyingchi) Prefecture in southern Xizang (China), following a diagnostic comparison with B. talpa Draudt, 1950 and B. antra Saldaitis, Benedek, Behounek & Stüning, 2014. The adults and the male genitalia of the new and related species are illustrated.
["Male genitalia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Rossellid glass sponges (Porifera, Hexactinellida) from New Zealand waters, with description of one new genus and six new species
New Zealand’s surrounding deep waters have become known as a diversity hotspot for glass sponges (Porifera: Hexactinellida) in recent years, and description and collection efforts are continuing. Here we report on eight rossellids (Hexasterophora: Lyssacinosida: Rossellidae) collected during the 2017 RV Sonne cruise SO254 by ROV Kiel 6000 as part of Project PoribacNewZ of the University of Oldenburg, Germany. The material includes six species new to science, two of which are assigned to a so far undescribed genus; we further re-describe two previously known species. The known extant rossellid diversity from the New Zealand region is thus almost doubled, from nine species in five genera to 17 species in eight genera. The specimens described here are only a small fraction of hexactinellids collected on cruise SO254. Unfortunately, the first author passed away while working on this collection, only being able to complete the nine descriptions reported here. The paper concludes with an obituary to him, the world-leading expert on glass sponge taxonomy who will be greatly missed.
["Bathydorus"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Two new species of the genus Pseudidonauton Hering, 1931 from China (Lepidoptera, Limacodidae)
Two new species of the genus Pseudidonauton Hering (Lepidoptera, Limacodidae), P. sinensis sp. nov. and P. puera sp. nov., are described from China. The new species are illustrated with images of the adults and male genitalia, and compared with similar species. Distribution maps of these species and a key to all known species of the genus are provided.
["Limacodidae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Scenopinus jerei, a new species of window fly (Diptera, Scenopinidae) from Finland
A new species of window fly (Diptera: Scenopinidae), Scenopinus jerei sp. nov., with characteristic bicoloured legs and completely black halteres, is described from Finland. To exclude potential previously named species, a survey of the relevant type specimens as well as original descriptions of the Palearctic and Nearctic Scenopinus species has been conducted, including old Scenopinus fenestralis (Linnaeus) synonyms. Scenopinus jerei sp. nov. is likely to be an overlooked, boreal forest specialist living in the nests of cavity-nesting birds. An identification key to the European species is provided.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

The Nazeris fauna of the Nanling Mountain Range, China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Fourteen species of Nazeris Fauvel, 1873 are reported for the Nanling Mountain Range, China. Four of them are described as new: N. xingmini Lin & Hu, sp. nov. (Guangdong, Jiangxi), N. huaiweni Lin & Hu, sp. nov. (Guangdong), N. meihuaae Lin & Hu, sp. nov. (Guangdong, Jiangxi) and N. lichongi Lin & Hu, sp. nov. (Hunan). An identification key to the Nazeris species reported for the Nanling Mountains, and a map showing their distribution are provided.
["Flightless"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Two new species of Dugesia (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae) from the tropical monsoon forest in southern China
Two new species of the genus Dugesia (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae) from the tropical monsoon forest in southern China are described on the basis of an integrative taxonomic study involving morphology, karyology, histology, and molecular analyses. The new species Dugesia circumcisa Chen & Dong, sp. nov. is characterised by asymmetrical openings of the oviducts; right vas deferens opening at anterior portion of the seminal vesicle and the left one opening at mid-lateral portion of the seminal vesicle; two diaphragms in ejaculatory duct, the latter being ventrally displaced and opening at the tip of the penis papilla, which is provided with a nozzle; wide duct connecting male atrium and common atrium; chromosome complement triploid with 24 metacentric chromosomes. The other new species, Dugesia verrucula Chen & Dong, sp. nov., is characterised by the large size of the living worm, usually exceeding 3.5 cm in length; asymmetrical openings of the oviducts; subterminal opening of ventrally displaced ejaculatory duct; vasa deferentia symmetrically opening into the postero-lateral portion of the seminal vesicle; well-developed duct between the seminal vesicle and diaphragm; single dorsal bump near the root of the penis papilla; bursal canal with pleated wall and spacious posterior section; unstalked cocoons; chromosome complement diploid with 16 metacentric chromosomes. Inter-specific molecular distances and their positions in the phylogenetic tree reveal that D. circumcisa and D. verrucula are clearly separated from their congeners.
["Genetic distance"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

A new Colombian species of Liodessus diving beetles from the Páramo de Sumapaz (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Bidessini)
Liodessus picinus sp. nov. is described from the Páramo de Sumapaz near Bogota D.C. at 3,500 m above sea level. The species can be distinguished from the other Colombian Liodessus species by its dark coloration, discontinuous habitus, shiny surface of the pronotum and elytron, presence of a distinct occipital line, distinct basal pronotal striae, short or even faint basal elytral striae, as well as by its distinct geographic distribution and cox1 signature.
["Colombia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Two new genera and three new species of cavernicolous trechines from the western Wuling Mountains, China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
Two new genera and three new species of cave-adapted ground beetles belonging to the tribe Trechini are established and described: Wulongius qilinger gen. nov. and sp. nov. from limestone cave Qiankou Dong (Chongqing: Wulong), Qianotrechus congcongae sp. nov. from cave Shigao Dong (Chongqing: Nanchuan), and Qianlongius zhoui gen. nov. and sp. nov. from cave Qianlong Dong (Guizhou: Songtao). Wulongius qilinger sp. nov. is a small aphaenopsian beetle with a thin and elongated body, while Qianlongius zhoui sp. nov. is a semi-aphaenopsian with a stout body. Both new genera are not closely related to any genus of Trechini occurring in the South China Karst, and so their systematic positions remain unclear.
["Aphaenopsian"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

A new species of Music frog (Anura, Ranidae, Nidirana) from Mt Daming, Guangxi, China
Nidirana guangxiensis sp. nov., a new music frog species, is proposed, based on a series of specimens collected from Mt Daming, Guangxi, southern China. The new species is close to N. yeae, N. daunchina, N. yaoica, and N. chapaensis from southwestern and south-central China and northern Indochina, while the relationships among these species remain unresolved. Nidirana guangxiensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from all known congeners by the genetic divergences in the mitochondrial 16S and COI genes, the behavior of nest construction, the advertisement call containing 6–11 rapidly repeated regular notes, and a combination of morphological characteristics. Furthermore, the Nidirana populations recorded in Guangxi are clarified in this work, providing valuable new information on the knowledge of the genus Nidirana.

Systematic revision of Stegodera Martens, 1876 (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Camaenidae), with description of a new genus
The monotypic genus Stegodera Martens, 1876 is systematically revised based on anatomical and morphological examination of freshly collected specimens. A new species from southern Hunan, which resembles Stegodera angusticollis, is confirmed to represent a new genus evidenced by comparative shell morphology and anatomy as well as by molecular phylogenetic analyses. The new genus might be more closely related to Stegodera and Nesiohelix Kuroda & Emura, but differs anatomically from the latter two genera by the absence of a dart apparatus.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

The termite genus Glyptotermes (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae) from Paraguay
A 2012 termite expedition yielded the first species of Glyptotermes known from Paraguay, G. hickmani sp. nov. and G. canellae (Müller, 1873), the latter previously known from Argentina and Brazil. Both are described based on the soldier and imago castes.
["Glyptotermes canellae"]

The millipede tribe Brachyiulini in the Caucasus (Diplopoda, Julida, Julidae)
The diplopod tribe Brachyiulini is represented in the fauna of the Caucasus by eight genera and 32 species, of which one genus and 14 species are described as new: Colchiobrachyiulus montanus Vagalinski, sp. nov., Iraniulus tricornis Vagalinski, sp. nov., Omobrachyiulus armatus Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. fasciatus Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. faxifer Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. kvavadzei Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. lazanyiae Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. ponticus Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. pristis Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. trochiloides Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. unugulis Vagalinski, sp. nov., O. zuevi Vagalinski, sp. nov., Svaniulus ryvkini Vagalinski, gen. nov., sp. nov., and S. waltheri Vagalinski, gen. nov., sp. nov. Colchiobrachyiulus Lohmander, 1936, a former subgenus of Megaphyllum, is here elevated to a full genus, and the genus Grusiniulus Lohmander, 1936 is downgraded to a subgenus of the genus Cyphobrachyiulus Verhoeff, 1900, both stat. nov., with their previously described species, Colchiobrachyiulus dioscoriadis (Lignau, 1915) and Cyphobrachyiulus redikorzevi (Lohmander, 1936), respectively, listed as comb. nov. Omobrachyiulus brachyurus (Attems, 1899) is formally established as a junior subjective synonym of O. caucasicus (Karsch, 1881), syn. nov., and Omobrachyiulus implicitus ritsensis (Golovatch, 1981) is formally synonymised with the typical Omobrachyiulus implicitus (Lohmander, 1936), syn. nov. Omobrachyiulus sevangensis (Lohmander, 1932), originally described in the genus Megaphyllum, is here transferred to the former genus, comb. nov. The diagnoses and descriptions of some genera and subgenera are refined and complemented. A key is given to all genera and species of Brachyiulini that occur in the Caucasus, and their distributions are mapped. Several species are recorded as new to the faunas of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, or Russia. The distribution patterns of the Caucasian Brachyiulini and their biogeographic implications are discussed.
["Armenia"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Novel lures and COI sequences reveal cryptic new species of Bactrocera fruit flies in the Solomon Islands (Diptera, Tephritidae, Dacini)
Results from a snap-shot survey of Dacine fruit flies carried out on three of the Solomon Islands in April 2018 are reported. Using traps baited with the male lures cue-lure, methyl eugenol, and zingerone, 30 of the 48 species previously known to occur in the Solomon Islands were collected. Six species are newly described here: Bactrocera allodistincta sp. nov., B. geminosimulata sp. nov., B. kolombangarae sp. nov., B. quasienochra sp. nov., B. tsatsiai sp. nov., and B. vargasi sp. nov., all authored by Leblanc & Doorenweerd. An illustrated key to the 54 species now known to be present in the country is provided.
["Dacus"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Synorthocladius federicoi sp. nov., a new species occurring in the middle basin of the Adige River, northern Italy (Diptera, Chironomidae, Orthocladiinae)
An adult male Synorthocladius was collected in the middle basin of the Adige River in the city of Verona, northern Italy. A combination of atypical characters for the genus signalled a new species. Synorthocladius federicoi sp. nov. is here diagnosed and described. The new species is known only from its type locality and is presumed to be a local biogeographical representative of the Italian Pre-Alps. An emended generic diagnosis, a key to known Synorthocladius from Europe and comments on the taxonomic position of the new species are given.
["Adige River"]

A new species of Leucostethus (Anura, Dendrobatidae) from Gorgona Island, Colombia
We describe a new species of Leucostethus from Gorgona Island, a small (13 km2) island located 35 km from the Pacific coast of southern Colombia. The new species most resembles L. argyrogaster and L. fugax from western Amazonia at 340–870 m elev. in Peru and Ecuador, with which it shares pale ventral coloration and orange suffusion of the axilla, groin and concealed surfaces of the hind limb, but it is most closely related to L. bilsa from ca. 340 km SW in the southern Chocó at 420–515 m elev., northwestern Ecuador. We report miniscule white spots on the posteroventral surface of the thighs of the new species and, on the basis of our preliminary assessment of their taxonomic distribution, hypothesize that their presence is a synapomorphy of Dendrobatoidea with subsequent losses in a few groups. Given the apparent restriction of the new species to Gorgona Island, it is Vulnerable according to IUCN Red List criteria. In addition to naming the new species, we also propose the following new combinations: L. alacris (Rivero and Granados-Díaz, 1990) comb. nov., L. dysprosium (Rivero and Serna, 2000) comb. nov., and L. yaguara (Rivero and Serna, 1991) comb. nov.

A review of the Eviota zebrina complex, with descriptions of four new species (Teleostei, Gobiidae)
The Eviota zebrina complex includes eight species of closely-related dwarfgobies, four of which are herein described as new. The complex is named for Eviota zebrina Lachner & Karnella, 1978, an Indian Ocean species with the holotype from the Seychelles Islands and also known from the Maldives, which was once thought to range into the Gulf of Aqaba and the Red Sea eastward to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. Our analysis supports the recognition of four genetically distinct, geographically non-overlapping, species within what was previously called E. zebrina, with E. zebrina being restricted to the Indian Ocean, E. marerubrum sp. nov. described from the Red Sea, E. longirostris sp. nov. described from western New Guinea, and E. pseudozebrina sp. nov. described from Fiji. The caudal fin of all four of these species is crossed by oblique black bars in preservative, but these black bars are absent from the four other species included in the complex. Two of the other species within the complex, E. tetha and E. gunawanae are morphologically similar to each other in having the AITO cephalic-sensory pore positioned far forward and opening anteriorly. Eviota tetha is known from lagoonal environments in Cenderawasih Bay and Raja Ampat, West Papua, and E. gunawanae is known only from deeper reefs (35–60 m) from Fakfak Regency, West Papua. The final two species are E. cometa which is known from Fiji and Tonga and possesses red bars crossing the caudal fin (but lost in preservative) and a 9/8 dorsal/anal-fin formula, and E. oculineata sp. nov., which is described as new from New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, and possesses an 8/7 dorsal/anal-fin formula and lacks red caudal bars. Eviota oculineata has been confused with E. cometa in the past.
["coral-reef fishes"]

Revision of the genus Furusawaia Chûjô, 1962 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae)
Yunnaniata Lopatin, 2009 is regarded as a junior synonym of Furusawaia Chûjô, 1962 syn. nov. Yunnaniata konstantinovi Lopatin, 2009 comb. nov. is transferred to the genus Furusawaia Chûjô and redescribed. Furusawaia continentalis Lopatin, 2008 and F. yosonis Chûjô are recognized as valid species and redescribed. Four new species are described from Taiwan: F. jungchani sp. nov., F. lui sp. nov., F. tahsiangi sp. nov., and F. tsoui sp. nov. A key to Taiwanese and Chinese species of Furusawaia is provided.
["Caryophyllaceae"]

Rugitermes ursulae (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae), a new drywood termite from the Caribbean coast of Colombia
Rugitermes ursulae sp. nov. is described from a sample collected inside a dead branch in a tropical dry forest of Colombia’s Caribbean coast using molecular information and external morphological characters of the imago and soldier castes. Rugitermes ursulae sp. nov. soldiers and imagoes are the smallest among all described Rugitermes species. The imago’s head capsule coloration is dark castaneous, while the pronotum is contrastingly pale yellow. Our description includes soldier characters, such as subflangular elevation and shape of the antennal sockets, that can help in identification of samples lacking imagoes.

A review of Madagopsina Feijen, Feijen & Feijen (Diptera, Diopsidae) with description of a new species, key to the species, and discussion of intrageneric relationships
For the recently established genus Madagopsina (Diopsidae, stalk-eyed flies), Madagopsina makayensis Feijen, Feijen & Feijen, sp. nov. is described from Madagascar. A concise catalogue is given for the genus and an identification key is presented for its six species. The differential character states are listed for the two species groups of the genus: the Madagopsina apollo species group and the Madagopsina apographica species group. The intrageneric relations are discussed based on morphology, geometric morphometrics analysis of wing shape, and allometric data for eye span against body length. Each of these three procedures places the new species in the M. apollo species group with Madagopsina parvapollina as its closest relative. New records are presented for M. apographica and M. parvapollina.
["Allometry"]

Two new species and one new record of Neoperla (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
Three species of the Neoperla montivaga group are described from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China, including two new species, N. falcatata sp. nov. and N. shangsiensis sp. nov., and a new record for Guangxi: N. bilineata Wu & Claassen, 1934. Illustrations and color images are provided for the three species mentioned above, and the new species is compared with related congeners in the group. Notes on the distribution of the Neoperla species known from Guangxi are also given.
["Neoperla montivaga group"]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

﻿Two new species of the millipede genus Glyphiulus Gervais, 1847 (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Cambalopsidae) from caves in northern Thailand
Two new species of the genus Glyphiulus Gervais, 1847 are described and illustrated. The first species, G. longus sp. nov., is the second species of the javanicus-group to be found in Thailand. It resembles G. guangnanensis Jiang, Guo, Chen & Xie, 2018, from southern China, but is distinguished by a smaller size and the carinotaxic formula of the collum, combined with ♂ legs 1 bearing very strongly reduced telopodites, the anterior gonopods showing a pair of very long and slender apicomesal processes, and the denser plumose and stout flagella of the posterior gonopods. The second species, G. promdami sp. nov., the fifth member of the granulatus-group in Thailand, seems to be particularly similar to G. subbedosae Likhitrakarn, Golovatch & Panha, 2017, from Laos. However, it can be distinguished from the latter species mainly by showing a uniformly yellow collum and the posterior gonopod coxite bearing several strong setae in median and lateral views, coupled with the anterior gonopod coxosternum being microsetose in the anterior and medial parts in caudal view. An identification key to, and a distribution map of, all seven Glyphiulus species currently known to occur in Thailand are also provided.

Two new species of freshwater crab of the genus Aparapotamon Dai & Chen, 1985 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Potamidae) from Yunnan, China
Two new species of freshwater crab of the genus Potamid Aparapotamon Dai & Chen, 1985 are described from Yunnan Province, southwest China. Morphological comparisons were made between the two new species and type materials of other 11 species of Aparapotamon. Aparapotamon binchuanense sp. nov. and A. huizeense sp. nov. can be separated from their congeners by the shape of the epibranchial tooth, the frontal view of the cephalothorax, the male first gonopod, and the female vulvae. The molecular analyses based on partial mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene are also included. This study brings the number of Aparapotamon species to 13.
["Aparapotamon"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

The genus Dettopsomyia Lamb, 1914 (Diptera, Drosophilidae) from southern China
The genus Dettopsomyia was established by Lamb in 1914 for a single species, De. formosa described therein. It contains 13 known species recorded from the Old World (the Oriental, Australasian, Palearctic and Afrotropical regions). In the present paper, five new species discovered from southern China are described as members of Dettopsomyia: De. acutipenis Wang & Gao, sp. nov., De. serripenis Wang & Gao, sp. nov., De. discontinua Wang & Gao, sp. nov., De. camelonota Wang, Li & Gao, sp. nov. and De. paranigrovittata Wang, Li & Gao, sp. nov. The new species were delimitated, based on not only morphological characters but also molecular data.
["Dettopsomyia"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of doryline ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) with 11-segmented antennae from India
Two new species of the subfamily Dorylinae Leach, 1815 namely Parasyscia ganeshaiahi sp. nov. and Syscia indica sp. nov. are described and illustrated based on the worker caste. These species were collected in the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India. Keys to Parasyscia of India and Syscia of Asia are provided based on the worker caste.
["Eastern Himalaya"]

Megarthrus of China. Part 4. The M. hemipterus complex (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Proteininae), with description of a new species from Yunnan Province
The members of the Megarthrus hemipterus species complex occurring in China, i.e., M. dentipes Bernhauer, M. flavolimbatus Cameron and M. hemipterus (Illiger), are diagnosed, and a new species attributed to this informal group, M. panda sp. nov., is described from Yunnan Province. All species are diagnosed and illustrated, and their distribution in mainland China is mapped. The limit of the M. hemipterus species complex is refined morphologically.

First description of the male of Psechrus jinggangensis Wang & Yin, 2001 from China
The male of Psechrus jinggangensis Wang & Yin, 2001 is described for the first time based on many specimens from its type locality, Jinggang Mountain National Nature Reserve, Ji’an City, Jiangxi province, China. Detailed illustrations, SEM images, and distribution map are given.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

Three new species of caddisflies (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae, Polycentropodidae, Leptoceridae) from Khon Phapheng Waterfall, the Mekong River, Laos
The Mekong River is a hotspot area for freshwater biodiversity, but caddisfly diversity is largely understudied. Three new species of caddisflies from three different families are described and illustrated from Khon Phapheng Waterfall, the Mekong River, Laos; Orthotrichia choengthongi Malicky & Laudee, sp. nov. (Hydroptilidae), Pseudoneureclipsis khonphaphengensis Malicky & Thamsenanupap, sp. nov. (Polycentropodidae), and Setodes karrilai Malicky & Laudee, sp. nov. Orthotrichia choengthongi Malicky & Laudee, sp. nov. can be differentiated from the most similar Orthotrichia triton Malicky 2008 by the specific shape of segment X which is long and tubular, pointed apically and curved inward then immediately upward in dorsal view. Pseudoneureclipsis khonphaphengensis Malicky & Thamsenanupap, sp. nov. differs from the similar P. kaineus Malicky & Bunlue in Malicky et al. 2004 by the shape of the inferior appendages that are usually broad, almost circular in lateral view. Setodes karrilai Malicky & Laudee, sp. nov. is mainly different to S. omphale Malicky & Changthong in Malicky et al. 2004 by the distal part of segment X which has a brush-like process.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Integrative taxonomy reveals a new species of the genus Burmoniscus (Isopoda, Philosciidae) from the Xuefeng Mountains, China
Three species of the genus Burmoniscus are identified from the Xuefeng Mountains, central China, by integrating morphological and molecular approaches. Burmoniscus chuanyanensis Li, sp. nov. is described. Morphological photographs of the new species are provided.
["Molecular"]

Eight cobweb spider species from China building detritus-based, bell-shaped retreats (Araneae, Theridiidae)
Eight cobweb spider species building a detritus-based, bell-shaped retreat from China are reported in the current paper, including five new Campanicola species and three known species: Campanicola anguilliformis Li & Liu, sp. nov., Campanicola falciformis Li & Liu, sp. nov., Campanicola heteroidea Li & Liu, sp. nov., Campanicola tauricornis Li & Liu, sp. nov., Campanicola volubilis Li & Liu, sp. nov., Campanicola campanulata (Chen, 1993), Campanicola ferrumequina (Bösenberg & Strand, 1906), and Parasteatoda ducta (Zhu, 1998). Among them, the male of Parasteatoda ducta (Zhu, 1998) is described for the first time. We provide photographs of all species and descriptions for new species in the current paper. The type of bell-shaped retreat is rare in theridiid, and found only in four related genera. A natural next step upon completing this taxonomic study would be to analyse and understand the evolution of the retreat and related traits.
["Bell-shaped retreat"]

A new species of the genus Cenocorixa (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Corixidae) from China
A new species of the genus Cenocorixa Hungerford (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Corixidae) is described from China. Cenocorixa yuanjiangensis sp. nov. is reported from Yunnan Province. An updated key to the Chinese species of Cenocorixa is presented.
["Cenocorixa"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Dengue and Mosquito Control Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of Semidalis Enderlein, 1905 (Neuroptera, Coniopterygidae) from China, with an identification key to Chinese species
Two new species of Coniopterygidae, Semidalis procurva sp. nov. and Semidalis tibetana sp. nov., are described from China. Both species differ from congeners in characters of the male genitalia. Semidalis decipiens (Roepke, 1916), is recorded from China for the first time. An identification key for adult males of the Chinese species of Semidalis Enderlein, 1905 is provided.

The only species of Mohnia Friele, 1879 (Caenogastropoda, Buccinoidea, Buccinidae) in the North Pacific represents an unrecognized new genus of Newtoniellidae (Triphoroidea)
Mohnia kurilana Dall, 1913 was described more than 100 years ago from deep waters off the Kuril Islands and remains exceedingly rare in museum collections. Originally placed in the carnivorous neogastropod family Buccinidae, fragmentary soft parts from the type lot and from several specimens belonging to allied species collected in the Aleutian Islands in the 1990s have allowed anatomical investigations for the first time. These have revealed the presence of a paucispiral operculum with an eccentric nucleus, foot with a deep propodial pedal gland and metapodial pedal gland, taenioglossate radula, short acrembolic proboscis, well-developed mid-esophageal gland, glandular prostate, and the absence of a penis; the nervous system is epiathroid with a long supra-esophageal connective and numerous statoconia in the statocysts. Analysis of the gut contents revealed abundant halichondriid sponge spicules. This evidence indicates a placement in the Triphoroidea, a diverse superfamily of specialized spongivores. Mohnia kurilana is transferred to the Newtoniellidae and placed in the new genus Pseudomohnia gen. nov. Pseudomohnia rogerclarki sp. nov. is established for a new species from the Aleutian Islands characterized by its narrowly turreted shell and distinctive multicuspid rachidian. A lectotype is designated for Mohnia kurilana.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Exploring the use of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) in the taxonomy of sea cucumbers: a case-study on the gravel sea cucumber Neopentadactyla mixta (Östergren, 1898) (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea, Phyllophoridae)
Sea cucumber taxonomy and systematics has in the past heavily relied on gross external and internal anatomy, ossicle assemblage in different tissues, and molecular characterisation, with coloration, habitat, and geographical and bathymethric distribution also considered important parameters. In the present paper, we made these observations and techniques in detail and complemented them with the novel technique of micro-computed tomography of the calcareous ring. We investigated a single European species, the so-called gravel sea cucumber, Neopentadactyla mixta (Östergren, 1898), using recently collected material from the Chausey Islands, Normandy, France. We redescribed the species, illustrated its ossicle assemblage through scanning electron microscopy, and visualised the calcareous ring through stacking photography and through micro-CT scanning. Additionally, a DNA fragment of 955 base pairs of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene was sequenced from one specimen, which showed a high similarity with the only sequence of N. mixta publicly available. We completed this integrative study by providing a detailed distribution of the occurrence of N. mixta based on published, verifiable accounts.
["Integrative taxonomy"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Aquatic life and conservation", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Selva Zoque, Mexico: an important Mesoamerican tropical region for reptile species diversity and conservation
The Selva Zoque region is characterized by a great variety of ecosystems for which there is little information about reptile species diversity and their conservation status. This study is the first assessment of the species richness, composition, and conservation status of reptiles of this region. Additionally, this information is compared with that of seven other tropical regions in northern Mesoamerica. In total, 141 native reptile species belonging to 81 genera and 29 families are recorded for the Selva Zoque region. Sixty species (42% of the total) recorded in Selva Zoque are in high-risk categories according to the Mexican Ministry of the Environment, the highest number for the Mexican regions of Mesoamerica. According to the IUCN, six species are in high-risk categories, seven species are in Data Deficient, and 23 (16%) have not been evaluated yet. According to the Environmental Vulnerability Scores approach, 28 species (20%) are in the high vulnerability category. The Selva Zoque species composition is most similar to Los Tuxtlas and Lacandona regions, and most dissimilar to Sian Ka´an Biosphere Reserve. The reptilian fauna of Selva Zoque has a distinctive composition, with the highest number (11 species) of endemic reptiles in the northern Mesoamerican, and species from two biogeographic provinces: the Gulf of Mexico and the Mexican Pacific Coast. These results indicate that the Selva Zoque is the most diverse region in native reptile species in northern Mesoamerica, highlighting it as extremely important for the conservation of the reptile fauna at local (southern Mexico) and regional levels (northern Mesoamerica).
["Compositional similarity"]

A new genus and ten new species of spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) from Iran
One new genus (Sestakovaia gen. nov.; Liocranidae) and 10 new species of five families of spiders are described from different provinces of Iran: Brigittea avicenna sp. nov. (♂♀, Alborz and Kurdistan provinces) (Dictynidae), Micaria atropatene sp. nov. (♂, East Azerbaijan Province), Zagrotes borna sp. nov. (♂, Hormozgan Province), Z. parla sp. nov. (♂, Kerman Province) (Gnaphosidae), Sestakovaia hyrcania sp. nov. (♂, Golestan Province), Mesiotelus patricki sp. nov. (♂, Golestan Province) (Liocranidae), Palpimanus carmania sp. nov. (♂, Kerman Province), P. persicus sp. nov. (♂♀, Hormozgan Province) (Palpimanidae), Rhysodromus genoensis sp. nov. (♂, Hormozgan Province), and R. medes sp. nov. (♂, Hormozgan Province) (Philodromidae). Furthermore, Sestakovaia annulipes (Kulczyński, 1897), comb. nov. (ex. Mesiotelus) and Zagrotes bifurcatus (Zamani, Chatzaki, Esyunin & Marusik, 2021), comb. nov. (ex. Berinda) are proposed as new combinations.
["Middle East"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New species of the genus Inversidens Haas, 1911 (Unionoida, Unionidae, Gonideinae) from Jiangxi Province, China
We diagnose and describe a new freshwater mussel species of the genus Inversidens, I. rentianensis sp. nov. from Jiangxi Province, China based on morphological characters and molecular data. This paper includes a morphological description and photograph of the holotype, and partial sequences of mitochondrial COI as DNA barcode data.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Shoulder and Clavicle Injuries", "Medical Imaging and Pathology Studies"]

The ichthyofauna of a poorly known area in the middle-southern Espinhaço mountain range, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil: diagnostics and identification keys
Knowledge about the taxonomy and fish composition from the upper rio Paraúna (rio São Francisco basin) and upper rio Santo Antônio (rio Doce basin) in the middle portion of the Southern Espinhaço mountain range, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil is still incipient. Only few studies focusing on ichthyofaunistic diagnostic and species descriptions in the lower stretches of the rio Santo Antônio are available. Herein the aim was to provide a species list of the freshwater ichthyofauna from the headwaters of both basins in such region, and to verify the occurrence of threatened, exotic, and potentially new species. Sixty species were registered, with 34 associated to the upper rio Paraúna, and 40 to the upper rio Santo Antônio. Two species are included in some threatened category, three are exotics, and 14 represent potentially new species. An identification key of the fish species recorded in the area is also provided.
["Headwater"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

On the Lathrobium fauna of the Nanling National Nature Reserve, southern China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Material of the paederine genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst, 1802 from the Nanling National Nature Reserve, southern China, is examined. Four species are identified, one of them described previously. Three species are described and illustrated for the first time, all of them micropterous and locally endemic: L. yangyihani Lin & Peng sp. nov., L. jiaxingyangi Lin & Peng sp. nov., and L. wangxingmini Lin & Peng sp. nov. The female sexual characters of L. guangdongense Peng & Li, 2014 are described and illustrated for the first time. Including the new taxa, 224 Lathrobium species are currently known from mainland China.
["Guangdong"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Pseudanthias hangapiko, a new anthiadine serranid (Teleostei, Serranidae, Anthiadinae) from Rapa Nui (Easter Island)
Pseudanthias hangapiko sp. nov. (Teleostei, Serranidae, Anthiadinae) is herein described from three specimens collected from a depth of 83 m in a mesophotic coral ecosystem off Hanga Piko, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile. Pseudanthias hangapiko sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners in live coloration and by the following combination of characters: dorsal-fin rays X, 17; anal-fin rays III, 8; pectoral-fin rays 16 (left side of one specimen 17); vertebrae 10+16; scales relatively large, two scales above lateral-line to base of fifth dorsal spine, and 16–17 circumpeduncular scales; gill rakers 11+23; and a slender body, with greatest body depth 3.6 (3.4–3.8) in SL. The most similar DNA barcodes (mitochondrial COI gene) are from Pseudanthias ventralis Randall, 1979 and Pseudanthias hawaiiensis Randall, 1979, with 16.8% and 17.0% uncorrected divergence, respectively. This fish is one of four new species that were documented from a pair of technical dives at a single location in Rapa Nui, emphasizing the high number of undescribed species likely still unknown in mesophotic coral ecosystems, especially in geographically remote locations. Pseudanthias hangapiko sp. nov. adds to the Rapa Nui ichthyofauna, which hosts the second-highest level of endemism in both shallow and deep-water fishes.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Rediscovery of Orientotlos iishibai Sakai, 1980 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura, Leucosiidae) in Taiwan
The leucosiid crab Orientotlos iishibai Sakai, 1980 was described from one female collected off western Japan and had never been reported since. The species is now recorded from southwestern Taiwan for the first time, and is redescribed and figured at length. Although Sakai argued that Orientotlos Sakai, 1980, is closely related to Oreophorus Rüppell, 1830 and Atlantotlos Doflein, 1904, the genus is actually morphologically most similar to Merocryptus A. Milne-Edwards, 1873. The two genera, however, still differ markedly in a number of key carapace and cheliped characters.
["East Asia"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Seek and ye shall find: new species and new records of Microporella (Bryozoa, Cheilostomatida) in the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean specimens of the genus Microporella collected from shallow water habitats during several surveys and cruises undertaken mostly off the Italian coast are revised. As a result of the disentanglement of the M. ciliata complex and the examination of new material, three new species, M. bicollaris sp. nov., M. ichnusae sp. nov., and M. pachyspina sp. nov., are described from submarine caves or associated with seagrasses and algae. An additional species Microporella sp. A, distinct by its finely reticulate ascopore, is described but left in open nomenclature owing to the limitations of a single infertile fragment. After examination of all available material, based on their identical zooidal morphology, the genus Diporula is regarded as junior synonym of Microporella and the combination Microporella verrucosa is resurrected as first suggested by Neviani in 1896. Fenestrulina joannae is also reassigned to Microporella. The availability of a large number of colonies of the above-mentioned and other species already well known from the area (i.e., M. appendiculata, M. ciliata, and M. modesta), allowed the assessment of their high intraspecific variability as well as the observation, for the first time, of some morphological characters including ancestrulae, early astogeny, and kenozooids. Finally, M. modesta, in spite of M. ciliata as defined by the neotype selected by Kukliński & Taylor in 2008, appears to be the commonest species in the basin.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

An annotated checklist of ladybeetle species (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) of Portugal, including the Azores and Madeira Archipelagos
A comprehensive annotated checklist of the ladybeetle species of Portugal, including the Azores and Madeira archipelagos, is presented. The Coccinellidae fauna comprises a total of 101 species: 83 from the Mainland, 39 from Madeira, and 32 from the Azores. The listed species are distributed among 2 sub-families and 13 tribes: within the subfamily Microweiseinae, Madeirodulini (1 species), Serangiini (2 species), and within the subfamily Coccinellinae, Azyini (1 species), Chilocorini (4 species), Coccidulini (7 species), Coccinellini (30 species), Epilachnini (4 species), Hyperaspidini (7 species), Noviini (2 species), Platynaspini (1 species), Scymnini (37 species), Stethorini (3 species), and Sticholotidini (2 species). The Portuguese fauna comprises 10 exotic species: 5 present in the Mainland, 7 in Madeira, and 6 in the Azores. Harmonia axyridis (Pallas, 1773) from Madeira, Propylea quatuordecimpunctata (Linnaeus, 1758) from the Azores, Delphastus catalinae (Horn, 1895) from the Azores and Madeira, Nephus (Geminosipho) reunioni (Fürsch, 1974) and Nephus (Nephus) voeltzkowi Weise, 1910 from Madeira and Microserangium sp. from the Mainland, are reported for the first time. Some species are considered doubtful records, as explained in the text. These results were obtained by compiling information on the available literature regarding ladybeetle species on the Portuguese mainland and insular territories, and original data.
["Azores"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Femorbiona gen. nov., a new genus of sac spiders (Araneae, Clubionidae) from Southeast Asia
A new genus of Clubionidae Wagner, 1887, Femorbiona Yu & Li, gen. nov., is described, with Clubiona brachyptera Zhu & Chen, 2012 (♂♀; Hainan, China) as the type species. Three species are included in Femorbiona gen. nov.: F. brachyptera comb. nov., F. phami Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀; Hai Phong, Vietnam), and F. shenzhen Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀; Guangdong, China).

Saving collections: taxonomic revision of the herpetological collection of the Instituto de Investigação Científica Tropical, Lisbon (Portugal) with a protocol to rescue abandoned collections
The herpetological collections of the Instituto de Investigação Científica Tropical, Lisbon, are amongst the most important collections from the former Portuguese territories in Africa and Asia. The collection comprises more than 5000 preserved specimens, including type specimens of nine taxa, Trachylepis adamastor, Trachypelis thomensis, Panaspis thomensis, Naja peroescobari, Dalophia angolensis, Hemidactylus nzingae, Boaedon fradei, Platysaurus maculatus maculatus, and Platysaurus maculatus lineicauda. The collection was abandoned in the early years of 2000s and was at risk of being lost. In this paper the entire collection is reviewed, a catalogue provided of the extant specimens, and a brief account of the history of herpetological research at IICT given. Details are also provided on the recovery of the collection and a protocol to rescue abandoned collections.
["Angola"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Review of Phanoperla (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from China
Three Chinese species of the genus Phanoperla are reviewed. A new species, P. cheni sp. nov., is proposed from Guangdong, southern China, and compared with related taxa. Neoperlops binodosa Wu, 1973 is confirmed from Hainan Province of China on the basis of re-examination of types from the island, but it is transferred to the genus Phanoperla and is placed as a synonym of P. pallipennis (Banks, 1938). A note on the distribution of the genus Phanoperla is also given.
["Neoperlops binodosa"]

Two new species of the genus Camptoscaphiella from Yunnan, China (Araneae, Oonopidae)
Two new species of the genus Camptoscaphiella Caporiacco, 1934 are described from Yunnan, China, i.e., C. changxu Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and C. linyejiei Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). Camptoscaphiella changxu Tong & Li, sp. nov. is characterized by the long, strongly-curved setae between male paturons, which is unknown in other oonopids and in any other spiders. Camptoscaphiella linyejiei Tong & Li, sp. nov. is the third blind species of this genus in the world. Morphological descriptions and photographic illustrations of the two new species are given.

A new genus and two new species of oonopid spiders from Tibet, China (Araneae, Oonopidae)
A new genus, Paramolotra Tong & Li, gen. nov., including two new species, Paramolotra pome Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Paramolotra metok Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), is described from Tibet, China. Morphological descriptions and photographic illustrations of the two new species are given.

Five new species of Macrothele Ausserer, 1871 from China (Araneae, Macrothelidae)
Five new species of the genus Macrothele Ausserer, 1871 are described from China: Macrothele emei Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan), M. hanfeii Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Hainan), M. hungae Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Taiwan), M. limenghuai Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sichuan), and M. nanning Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Guangxi). Types of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, China.

﻿Manual of North American Agromyzidae (Diptera, Schizophora), with revision of the fauna of the “Delmarva” states
Тhe agromyzid (Diptera: Schizophora: Agromyzidae) fauna of America north of Mexico is described in the first part of this publication, including a genus key and discussions on morphology, life history and classification. The second part is a species-level revision of the family in the “Delmarva” states of the United States of America, that is, of the District of Columbia and the surrounding states of Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. The fauna of this region includes 156 species. This study presents 346 new state and provincial records and 23 new country records, two of which are new continental records (Agromyza abiens Zetterstedt and A. apfelbecki Strobl). Liriomyza endiviae Hering is no longer considered to occur in North America. Fifteen species are newly described: Agromyza echinalis sp. nov., Melanagromyza brunkei sp. nov., M. eoflacensis sp. nov., M. glyptos sp. nov., M. rutella sp. nov., Ophiomyia capitolia sp. nov., O. cuprea sp. nov., O. galiodes sp. nov., O. heleios sp. nov., O. kalia sp. nov., O. laticolis sp. nov., Cerodontha (Poemyza) ungula sp. nov., Phytomyza avicursa sp. nov., P. catenula sp. nov., and P. winkleri sp. nov. Four new species-level synonyms and one genus-level synonym are provided: Agromyza marmorensis Spencer syn. nov. is included as a synonym of A. aristata Malloch; Melanagromyza fastosa Spencer, syn. nov. is included as a junior synonym of Ophiomyia tiliae (Couden); Melanagromyza verbesinae Spencer is considered a synonym of M. vernoniana Steyskal; Phytomyza ranunculoides Spencer, syn. nov. is included as a junior synonym of Phytomyza loewii Hendel; the genus Liomycina Enderlein, syn. nov. is included as a junior synonym of Phytobia Lioy. Ophiomyia ultima (Spencer), comb. nov. is recombined from Melanagromyza. Euhexomyza albicula Spencer, stat. reinst., comb. nov. is resurrected from synonymy with E. winnemanae (Malloch). New host records are given.
["Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Notes on the genus Theopropus Saussure (Mantodea, Hymenopodidae) from China, with description of a new species from the Himalayas
The genus Theopropus Saussure, 1898 is distributed with five species in SE Asia, three of which were recorded in South China: T. elegans (Westwood), T. cattulus (Westwood) and T. sinecus Yang. After examining numerous specimens of Theopropus, we attempt to resolve some taxonomic confusion about Theopropus occurring in China. Those Chinese specimens that were inaccurately identified as T. cattulus represent a new subspecies of T. sinecus Yang: T. s. qiongae Wu & Liu, ssp. nov.. A new species, T. xishiae Wu & Liu, sp. nov., is described from the rainforests of the southern slopes of the Himalayas. The records of T. elegans in China are also clarified. Biological characteristics of the species and subspecies, necessary illustrations, and ecological images are provided. The distribution of the known Chinese Theopropus species is discussed and mapped.

Morphological and molecular data on tadpoles of the westernmost Himalayan spiny frog Allopaa hazarensis (Dubois & Khan, 1979)
Little is known about the life history, ecology, and distribution of the genus Allopaa (Dicroglossidae) and far less recent data are available about the larvae of this taxon. Here, we provide data on the larval stage of Allopaa hazarensis (Dubois & Khan, 1979) from northern Pakistan based on the examination of three tadpoles. Specimens were obtained from two sites in Buner, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan. Morphological and genetic analysis (mtDNA and nDNA) confirmed the identity of the tadpoles as A. hazarensis. Tadpole characterizations were illustrated by detailed imagery. Basic measurements and details on oral apparatus provide relevant taxonomic characteristics to distinguish the tadpoles of this species from other spiny frogs. The illustration and description of the tadpole of A. hazarensis should facilitate the identification of this species in the field.
["Chaparana"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

The millipede genera Amblyiulus Silvestri, 1896 and Syrioiulus Verhoeff, 1914 in the Caucasus, with notes on their distributions (Diplopoda, Julida, Julidae)
In the Caucasus, the genera Amblyiulus Silvestri, 1896 and Syrioiulus Verhoeff, 1914 are shown to include two and four species, respectively: Amblyiulus georgicus Lohmander, 1932, from Georgia and Armenia, A. hirtus sp. nov., from Azerbaijan and Dagestan, Russia, Syrioiulus adsharicus (Lohmander, 1936), from Georgia, S. continentalis (Attems, 1903), from Azerbaijan and Iran, S. taliscius (Attems, 1927), from Azerbaijan, and S. armeniacus sp. nov., from Armenia. All these six species are described, illustrated, and keyed, and their distributions are mapped and discussed, based on the literature data and abundant new samples.
["Faunistic records"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new Palaearctic species of the subgenus Lunatipula (Diptera, Tipulidae) from the West Caucasus with a survey of the caucasica species group
The caucasica species group in the subgenus Lunatipula is redefined and now consists of five species native to the Caucasus. Tipula (L.) eleniya sp. nov. is described as new to science, and variations in the male terminalia in two populations are noted. Two subspecies (quadridentata quadridentata and quadridentata paupera) are elevated to species rank. Detailed photo’s complement the descriptions of all five species (caucasica, eleniya, paupera, quadridentata, talyshensis), and data on ecology and distribution patterns are included as well as identification keys to males and females. Tipula caucasica is recorded from the West Caucasus and Tipula quadridentata is recorded from Dagestan (Russia) for the first time. Parallel evolution is traced in the male terminalia of the new species and in several non caucasica species group of Palaearctic Lunatipula.
["Crane flies"]

A new record of odd-scaled snake (Serpentes, Xenodermidae) from Vietnam: expanded description of Parafimbrios vietnamensis based on integrative taxonomy
Based on the combination of molecular and morphological data, we herein report the second known finding of the xenodermid snake species Parafimbrios vietnamensis Ziegler, Ngo, Pham, Nguyen, Le & Nguyen, 2018. The male individual was found in the Yen Bai Province of northwestern Vietnam, more than 200 km from the type locality in Lai Chau Province. Genetic divergence between the newly-collected male and the holotype was low (1.7%), and is in agreement with morphological data that supports that they are conspecific. We give a detailed description of the morphological characters and coloration of the new record and provide an expanded diagnosis of P. vietnamensis. Parafimbrios is a poorly-understood genus, and our recent discovery brings the total number of known specimens of the genus to nine, 1/3 of them having been found in Vietnam (one specimen of P. lao and now two specimens of P. vietnamensis).
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Rabies epidemiology and control", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

A new species of Nanorana Günther, 1896 (Anura, Dicroglossidae) from Yunnan, China
A new species of Nanorana Günther, 1896 is described from Yunnan Province, China, based on morphological and molecular evidence. Morphologically, Nanorana xuelinensis sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following diagnostic characters: body size large; adult males with keratinized spines on chest, belly, lateral body, posterior dorsum, buttocks, outer side of the fore limbs, the inner metacarpal tubercle, fingers I and II, and upper eyelids; no spines on the inner side of the lower and upper arm; forelimbs strongly hypertrophied in adult males; anterior dorsum skin smooth; dorsolateral folds absent; finger I longer than finger II; webbing deeply incurved between tips of toes; present outer metacarpal tubercle and absent outer metatarsal tubercle. The new species is separated from all other congeners by uncorrected genetic distances ranging from 5.2% to 7.3% based on mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene and ranging from 3.9% to 7.6% based on mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

The first queen-worker association for Cretaceous Formicidae: the winged caste of Haidomyrmex cerberus
Two queen ant specimens, one alate and one dealate, from mid-Cretaceous (Late Albian–Early Cenomanian) Burmese amber are herein reported as belonging Haidomyrmex cerberus Dlussky, 1996. This is the first discovery and documentation of an alate queen in Haidomyrmex. Compared with workers of Haidomyrmex cerberus, alate and dealate queens are larger in body size, have smaller compound eyes, a longer antennal scape, more complex mandibles, and a relatively large-sized metasoma. It is hypothesized that these differences are due to caste differences.
["Alate queen"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies"]

A sheep in wolf's clothing: Elaphe xiphodonta sp. nov. (Squamata, Colubridae) and its possible mimicry to Protobothrops jerdonii
Based on combined morphological and osteological characters and molecular phylogenetics, we describe a new species of the genus Elaphe that was discovered from the south slope of the Qinling Mountains, Shaanxi, China, namely Elaphe xiphodonta sp. nov. It is distinguished from the other congeners by a combination of the following characters: dorsal scales in 21-21-17 rows, the medial 11 rows keeled; 202–204 ventral scales, 67–68 subcaudals; two preoculars (including one subpreocular); two postoculars; two anterior temporals, three posterior temporals; reduced numbers of maxillary teeth (9+2) and dentary teeth (12); sharp cutting edges on the posterior or posterolateral surface of the rear maxillary teeth and dentary teeth; dorsal head yellow, three distinct markings on the head and neck; a distinct black labial spot present in supralabials; dorsum yellow, 46–49 complete (or incomplete) large black-edged reddish brown blotches on the body and 12–19 on the tail, two rows of smaller blotches on each ventrolateral side; ventral scales yellow with mottled irregular black blotches, a few irregular small red spots dispersed on the middle of the ventral. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses, the new species forms the sister taxon to E. zoigeensis. The discovery of this new species increases the number of the recognized species in the genus Elaphe to 17.
["Colubrid"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A new species of Procambarus (Decapoda, Cambaridae) from the State of Querétaro, Mexico
With a Nearctic distribution, the family Cambaridae harbors a high species richness in Mexico, which is also evident along the Pánuco River catchment. A series of surveys carried on in five populations from the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve in the State of Querétaro resulted in localizing a putative new species for science. A molecular phylogenetic study and species delimitation analyses including all the known Procambarus species from the Pánuco River catchment were conducted based on three mitochondrial genes (16S rDNA, 12S rDNA, and COI; 2,462 bp in total). Phylogeny recovered all species as monophyletic, including the populations under study. All delimitation results based on barcoding, ABGD, GMYC, bPTP, and gonopod differentiation agree in the recognition of a new taxon, to which the name Procambarus xihui sp. nov. is given, and its diagnosis and description are provided. The new species can be distinguished from the remaining species in the genus, among other characters, by a unique configuration of the terminal elements of the first pleopod of form I male, which includes a central projection lamellate, hood-like, forming a concave blade-like structure mesially directed, as well as a caudal process crest-like, mesiodistally directed, forming a lateral side of the concavity.
["Astacidea"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Systematic review of the dextral Hemiplecta Albers, 1850 (Eupulmonata, Ariophantidae) from Thailand with description of a new species and list of all the Indochinese species
The genus Hemiplecta is a group of large-sized land snails which have long been used as a food resource by Indochinese people. There are five dextral and four sinistral species currently recognized from Thailand. The dextral group is comprised of two previously recorded species (H. humphreysiana and H. distincta), two newly recorded species (H. funerea and H. esculenta), and one new species (H. nemorosa sp. nov.) from northern Thailand is being proposed. We reassessed the diagnostic characters of the genitalia, mantle edge, and radula. Specimens were classified into the genus Hemiplecta on the basis of the penial verge and shell lobe, and on the characters of a bulbous gametolytic sac without a gametolytic duct. A complete species list, together with photographs of the name-bearing types or authenticated specimens and the taxonomic status of Hemiplecta s.l. that are known from Indochina including Peninsular Malaysia and Myanmar, is provided for the first time. In total, this species list contains 39 available nominal species names described from this area. Type or authentic specimens can be located for 37 nominal species names, of which 25 are illustrated herein and the other 12 were recently illustrated. However, two available species-level names could not be traced to any type specimens. In addition, lectotypes of H. funerea and H. pluto are designated herein to stabilize the names.

Crenobiont, stygophile and stygobiont molluscs in the hydrographic area of the Trebišnjica River Basin
In the paper the crenobiont, stygophile and stygobiont malacofauna of the karst area of Popovo Polje around Trebinje (Eastern Herzegovina, BiH) is presented. The materials were collected from springs, caves and interstitial habitats (with a Bou-Rouch pump) at 23 localities. The following species were found: Pisidium cf. personatum A.W. Malm, 1855, Theodoxus callosus (Deshayes, 1833), Sadleriana fluminensis (Küster, 1852), Radomaniola curta (Küster, 1852), Radomaniola cf. bosniaca (Radoman, 1973), Kerkia briani Rysiewska & Osikowski, 2020, Montenegrospeum bogici (Pešić & Glöer, 2012), Litthabitella chilodia (Westerlund, 1886), Travunijana vruljakensis Grego & Glöer, 2019, a new genus and species of the Sadlerianinae, Emmericia ventricosa Brusina, 1870, Iglica cf. absoloni (A.J. Wagner, 1914), Plagigeyeria tribunicae Schütt, 1963, Paladilhiopsis arion Rysiewska & Osikowski, 2021, Valvata montenegrina Glöer & Pešić, 2008, Radix labiata (Rossmässler, 1835), Galba truncatula (O. F. Müller, 1774), Ancylus recurvus Martens, 1783, Ancylus sp. and the amphibiotic Succinea cf. putris (Linnaeus, 1758). The redescription of the genus Travunijana Grego & Glöer, 2019, applying the characteristics of shell, female reproductive organs and penis, is also presented. The new genus and species are described, based on the shell, penis, radula and fragmentary data on the female reproductive organs. For all species, the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) is applied to confirm the determination; in the case of Travunijana and the new genus, the nuclear histone H3 locus is also used, in order to infer both their distinctiveness and phylogenetic relationships.
["Balkans"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Four new species of Aspidiotini (Hemiptera, Diaspididae, Aspidiotinae) from Panama, with a key to Panamanian species
Four new species of armored scale insect, Clavaspis selvatica sp. nov., Clavaspis virolae sp. nov., Davidsonaspis tovomitae sp. nov., and Rungaspis neotropicalis sp. nov., are described and illustrated from Panama. We also transfer two previously described species of Panamanian Aspidiotini to new genera, Hemiberlesia crescentiae (Ferris) comb. nov. and Rungaspis rigida (Ferris) comb. nov., and report the first record of Selenaspidopsis browni Nakahara in Panama. A key to the species of Aspidiotini occurring in Panama is provided.
["Armored scale insect"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

A species of the genus Panophrys (Anura, Megophryidae) from southeastern Guizhou Province, China
Herein, we describe Panophrys congjiangensis sp. nov. obtained from the Yueliangshan Nature Reserve, Congjiang County, Guizhou Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial genes 16S rRNA and COI indicated that this new species represented an independent lineage, closely related to P. leishanensis. The uncorrected genetic distances between the new species and its closest congener, P. leishanensis, were 3.0% for 16S rRNA and 8.4% for COI. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characteristics (1) medium body size (SVL 28.6–33.4 mm in males and 38.4–40.2 mm in females); (2) a small horn-like tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; (3) the tympanum distinctly visible (TD/ED ratio 0.47–0.66); (4) vomerine teeth absent; (5) the tongue not notched behind; (6) a narrow and unobvious lateral fringe on toes; (7) relative finger lengths II < I < V < III; (8) rudimentary webs on toes; (9) hindlimbs slender, heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; (10) two metacarpal tubercles on the palm, with the inner metatarsal tubercle long and oval-shaped; (11) the tibiotarsal articulation reaching the nostril when the leg is adpressed and stretched forward; (12) dorsal skin rough with numerous orange–red granules, ventral surface smooth; (13) a single internal subgular vocal sac present in males; and (14) in breeding males, weak gray-black nuptial pads with black nuptial spines present on the dorsal surface of the bases of the first and second fingers. To date, the new species is only known from the type locality.

First report of the genus Pelecystola Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Tineidae) in China, with description of a new species
The genus Pelecystola Meyrick, 1920 and the species Pelecystola strigosa (Moore, 1888) are newly recorded from China, and Pelecystola peculiaris sp. nov. is described as new to science. Adults, head, venation, and genitalia of the two species are illustrated. A molecular phylogenetic analysis is presented to ascertain the generic affiliation of the new species. Forty-four species of 38 genera in Tineidae are analyzed using maximum likelihood methods based on one mitochondrial (COI) and two nuclear gene fragments (CAD and wingless). DNA barcodes of the two species are provided, and the genetic distance of barcode divergence among four species of Pelecystola is calculated.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

Parasitoids of Delia planipalpis (Meigen) and Delia platura (Stein) (Diptera, Anthomyiidae) in Mexico
Among the insect pests that affect crucifer crops in Mexico are Delia planipalpis (Meigen) and D. platura (Stein). They are a threat to the production of these vegetables since the damage they cause directly and indirectly affects yield, quality, and commercialization of these crops. Nevertheless, the existence of natural enemies of these dipterans is still unknown. It is fundamental to determine which parasitoids or predators can be considered possible biological control agents in an integrated pest management program. The sampling sites were located in Guanajuato, Puebla, and the State of Mexico, where plants of Brassica oleracea L. var. italica Plenk and capitata L., B. napus L., and Raphanus sativus L. infested with Delia spp. were selected. The symptoms observed were wilting, yellowish, flaccid leaves and individuals less developed than the rest of the crop. These plants were extracted with their root and the surrounding soil. Also, wild crucifers were collected, such as Raphanus raphanistrum L., Brassica campestris L., and Sisymbrium irio L. The first records of Aphaereta pallipes Say (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), Trybliographa rapae (Westwood) (Hymenoptera, Figitidae), and Aleochara bimaculata Gravenhorst (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) are reported parasitizing the puparia of these anthomyiid flies on cultivated and wild crucifers. This represents only a starting point for the continuous study of these parasitoids, which is needed to consider them useful for the biological control of D. planipalpis and D. platura.
["Biological control"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Two new species of the Balkan genus Paladilhiopsis Pavlović, 1913 (Caenogastropoda, Moitessieriidae)
The Balkan Peninsula is inhabited by the worldwide most diverse subterranean gastropod fauna. This fauna is still poorly studied, since its habitats are not easily accessible, and its sampled populations are mostly not rich in specimens’ numbers. Often only empty shells are known, but the shell is hardly useful, not only in phylogeny reconstruction, but even in species determination. The exclusively obligatory subterranean family Moitessieriidae is especially poorly studied. Representatives of the genus Paladilhiopsis Pavlović, 1913 (Moitessieriidae) collected at three localities, distributed in Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina, were studied. The pigmentation of their shells and soft parts, as well as the female and male reproductive organs in one taxon, are presented. The partial sequences of the molecular markers mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and nuclear histone 3 (H3) were used to infer their systematic status and phylogenetic relationships. Two species new to science are described. For one of them, also studied anatomically, 15 specimens were sequenced for COI, and all show the same haplotype.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A new species of Hangangbathynella (Crustacea, Bathynellacea, Parabathynellidae) from South Korea
A new parabathynellid bathynellacean species, Hangangbathynella mihoensis sp. nov., was found in the groundwater of the Geumgang River in South Korea. This is the first report of Hangangbathynella from a tributary of the Geumgang River. All previously-reported species were found in the Hangang River and the origins of the two rivers are distinct from each other. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by the two-segmented mandibular palp and the absence of epipods on thoracopod II. In this study, we provide a description of the new species and an identification table for the genus Hangangbathynella. In addition, we obtained partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene for DNA barcoding.
["Bathynellacea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Revision of the Afrotropical species of the hover fly genus Mesembrius Rondani (Diptera, Syrphidae) using morphological and molecular data
The Afrotropical representatives of the hover fly genus Mesembrius Rondani, 1857 (Diptera) are divided into two subgenera, namely Mesembrius s.s. and Vadonimyia Séguy, 1951 and, in this present work, the subgenus Mesembrius s.s. is revised. A total of 23 Mesembrius s.s. species are recognised for the Afrotropics. Known species are re-described and six species new to science are described: Mesembrius arcuatus sp. nov., M. copelandi sp. nov., M. longipilosus sp. nov., M. sulcus sp. nov., M. tibialis sp. nov. and M. vockerothi sp. nov. Mesembrius africanus (Verrall, 1898) is considered a junior synonym of M. senegalensis (Macquart, 1842), M. ctenifer Hull, 1941 a junior synonym of M. caffer (Loew, 1858), M. lagopus (Loew, 1869) a junior synonym of M. capensis (Macquart, 1842) and M. platytarsis Curran, 1929 a junior synonym of M. simplicipes Curran, 1929. The females of Mesembrius chapini Curran, 1939, M. rex Curran, 1927 and M. regulus (Hull, 1937) are described for the first time. Lectotypes are designated for Mesembrius caffer, M. capensis, M. cyanipennis (Bezzi, 1915), M. minor (Bezzi, 1915), M. senegalensis, M. strigilatus (Bezzi, 1912) and M. tarsatus (Bigot, 1883). Separate identification keys for males and females are presented. We obtained 236 DNA barcodes for 18 species. The relationships amongst the different Mesembrius species are briefly discussed, based on morphological and DNA barcode data.
["Logic, Reasoning, and Knowledge", "Epistemology, Ethics, and Metaphysics", "Philosophy and Theoretical Science"]

The Acidocerinae (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae): taxonomy, classification, and catalog of species
The cosmopolitan subfamily Acidocerinae (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae) is one of the largest and most taxonomically challenging lineages of water scavenger beetles. Recent phylogenetic studies have substantially advanced our understanding of acidocerine relationships but also illuminated the twin challenges of poorly delineated generic concepts and a classification broadly incompatible with the phylogeny. Here, these two challenges are addressed by providing a comprehensive synthesis and taxonomic tools for the Acidocerinae, including (1) a brief history and the current state of acidocerine classification, (2) a review of acidocerine ecology and collection methods, (3) the current knowledge of larval and fossil acidocerines, (4) a morphological primer on characters of taxonomic and systematic importance within the lineage, (5) a key to the world genera of Acidocerinae, (6) diagnoses, habitus, and aedeagal images, distribution maps, and summary of knowledge for each of the 23 extant genera in the subfamily, and (7) a complete annotated taxonomic catalog including the published distributions, synonyms, and references for all described 541 acidocerine species recognized as of 1 April 2021. The following nomenclatural acts are proposed to bring the phylogeny and classification into alignment: Colossochares gen. nov. is established to accommodate two African species previously described as Helochares (s. str.); Novochares gen. nov. is newly established to accommodate 15 Neotropical species previously included in Helochares (s. str.); the remaining Helochares subgenera Helocharimorphus Kuwert syn. nov. and Hydrobaticus MacLeay syn. nov. are synonymized with Helochares Mulsant. Peltochares Régimbart sensu nov. is redefined to include eight Old World species previously included in Helochares (s. str.). A lectotype is designated for Peltochares conspicuus Régimbart, the type species of the genus. The taxonomic and morphological circumscription of Helochares sensu nov. is narrowed and redefined.
["aquatic beetles"]

Spatial and temporal variation of epigaeic beetle assemblages (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Staphylinidae) in aspen-dominated mixedwood forests across north-central Alberta
Epigaeic beetle assemblages were surveyed using continuous pitfall trapping during the summers of 1992 and 1993 in six widely geographically distributed locations in Alberta’s aspen-mixedwood forests prior to initial forest harvest. Species composition and turnover (β-diversity) were evaluated on several spatial scales ranging from Natural Regions (distance between samples 120–420 km) to pitfall traps (40–60 m). A total of 19,885 ground beetles (Carabidae) representing 40 species and 12,669 rove beetles (non-Aleocharinae Staphylinidae) representing 78 species was collected. Beetle catch, species richness, and diversity differed significantly among the six locations, as did the identity of dominant species. Beetle species composition differed significantly between the Boreal Forest and Foothills Natural Regions for both taxa. Staphylinidae β-diversity differed significantly between Natural Regions, whereas Carabidae β-diversity differed among locations. Climate variables such as number of frost-free days, dry periods, and mean summer temperatures were identified as significant factors influencing beetle assemblages at coarse spatial scales, whereas over- and understory vegetation cover, litter depth, shade, slope, and stand age influenced beetle assemblages at finer spatial scales. Significant interannual variation in assemblage structure was noted for both taxa. Because composition of epigaeic beetle assemblages differed across spatial scales, forest management strategies based only on generalized understanding of a single location will be ineffective as conservation measures. In addition, site history and geographic variation significantly affect species distributions of these two beetle families across the landscape. Thus, we underscore Terry Erwin’s suggestion that biodiversity assessments focused on species assemblages at different spatial scales provide a sound approach for understanding biodiversity change and enhancing conservation of arthropod biodiversity.
["Climate"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Management and Policy"]

What shapes ground beetle assemblages in a tree species-rich subtropical forest?
As woody plants provide much of the trophic basis for food webs in forests their species richness, but also stand age and numerous further variables such as vegetation structure, soil properties and elevation can shape assemblages of ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae). However, the combined impact of these numerous variables on ground beetle diversity and community structure has rarely been studied simultaneously. Therefore, ground beetles were studied in 27 plots in a highly diverse and structurally heterogeneous subtropical forest ecosystem, the Gutianshan National Park (southeast China) using pitfall traps and flight interception traps. Both trapping methods collected partly overlapping species spectra. The arboreal fauna was dominated by lebiines and to a smaller extent by tiger beetles and platynines; the epigeic fauna comprised mostly representatives of the genus Carabus and numerous tribes, especially anisodactylines, pterostichines, and sphodrines. Ground beetle species richness, abundance, and biomass of the pitfall trap catches were analyzed with generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs), fitted with seven environmental variables. Four of these variables influenced the ground beetle assemblages: Canopy cover, herb cover, pH-value of the topsoil and elevation. Contrary to our expectations, woody plant species richness and stand age did not significantly affect ground beetle assemblages. Thus, ground beetles seem to respond differently to environmental variables than ants and spiders, two other predominantly predatory arthropod groups that were studied on the same plots in our study area and which showed distinct relationships with woody plant richness. Our results highlight the need to study a wider range of taxa to achieve a better understanding of how environmental changes affect species assemblages and their functioning in forest ecosystems.
["Abundance"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Carabid beetle (Coleoptera, Carabidae) richness, diversity, and community structure in the understory of temporarily flooded and non-flooded Amazonian forests of Ecuador
Although tropical regions harbor the greatest arthropod diversity on Earth, the majority of species are taxonomically and scientifically unknown. Furthermore, how they are organized into functional communities and distributed among habitats is mostly unstudied. Here we examine species richness, diversity, and community composition of carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) and compare them between flooded (FP) and non-flooded terra firme (TF) forests in the Yasuní area of Ecuador. The forest understory was sampled using flight intercept traps (FITs) and systematic hand collections at night in June and July 2011 and 2012, and FITs in October and November 2011. A total of 1,255 Carabidae representing 20 tribes, 54 genera, and 143 morphospecies was collected. Mean number of individuals and mean species richness did not differ significantly between FP and TF; however, numbers of Cicindelini (tiger beetles) and Pentagonicini were higher in TF forest while numbers of Lachnophorini and Scaritini were higher in FP forest. Overall, FP had significantly higher rarefied richness but extrapolation of rarefaction curves using the Chao1 nonparametric diversity estimator show that this difference may decrease with additional sampling. The inverse Simpson index was significantly higher for FP than TF forest. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) ordination and dissimilarity coefficient values show that FP and TF forests maintain unique assemblages with minimal overlap in community composition. Given ongoing anthropogenic pressures, particularly petroleum extraction, and those resulting from climate change, a greater understanding of the richness, diversity and community assemblages of Yasuní rainforest are needed to better conserve the fauna of this megadiverse area of Amazonia.
["Amazon"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Shell-breaking predation on gastropods by Badister pictus (Coleoptera, Carabidae) with strikingly asymmetric mandibles
The adults and larvae of some groups in the coleopteran family Carabidae are known to prey on snails (Mollusca: Gastropoda). Most species of the carabid tribe Licinini are believed to feed on live snails. However, the snail-eating behavior of only a few species has been studied. Whether adults of the licinine genus Badister can prey on live snails was tested by providing 155 live snails of 20 species (eleven terrestrial and nine aquatic species) to adults of Badister pictus Bates, 1873, and observing their behavior under laboratory conditions. Six of the 20 snail species have an operculum that can close the aperture of the shell. Each B. pictus adult attacked all of the snails provided. Badister pictus successfully preyed on ten terrestrial and six aquatic snail species. These beetles used their strikingly asymmetrical mandibles to break the dextral shells along the dorsal part of the whorls from the outer lip of the aperture towards the apex, allowing subsequent consumption of the soft bodies. However, 41.9% of snails could not be eaten by B. pictus adults. The rate of predation success by B. pictus decreased with increasing shell size and thickness of snails. In addition, the presence of an operculum decreased the rate of predation success by B. pictus. The results show that the shell size, thickness, and operculum of some snail species could play important roles in preventing B. pictus mandibles from breaking the shells. Therefore, Badister beetles may exert selective pressure on the evolution of defensive shell structures in small-sized snails.
["Anti-predator defense"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Species-rich bark and ambrosia beetle fauna (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) of the Ecuadorian Amazonian Forest Canopy
Canopy fogging was used to sample the diversity of bark and ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) at two western Amazonian rainforest sites in Ecuador. Sampling was conducted by Dr Terry Erwin and assistants from 1994–2006 and yielded 1158 samples containing 2500 scolytine specimens representing more than 400 morphospecies. Here, we analyze a subset of these data representing two ecological groups: true bark beetles (52 morphospecies) and ambrosia beetles (69 morphospecies). A high percentage of these taxa occurred as singletons and doubletons and their species accumulation curves did not reach an asymptote. Diversity estimates placed the total scolytine species richness for this taxon subset present at the two sites between 260 and 323 species. The α-diversity was remarkably high at each site, while the apparently high β-diversity was an artifact of undersampling, as shown by a Monte Carlo resampling analysis. This study demonstrates the utility of canopy fogging for the discovery of new scolytine taxa and for approximate diversity assessment, but a substantially greater sampling effort would be needed for conclusive alpha as well as beta diversity estimates.
["ambrosia beetles"]
["Insect and Pesticide Research", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

The Lepidoptera of Cuatrociénegas Protected Area 1. A new species in the genus Callistege Hübner, [1823] (Erebidae, Erebinae, Euclidiini) from the Chihuahuan Desert, Coahuila, Mexico
A new species of Callistege Hübner, [1823] (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Erebinae, Euclidiini) is described from Cuatrociénegas Protected Area and Biosphere Preserve in Coahuila, Mexico. Adult male and female moths are illustrated, including genitalia. Callistege clara Homziak & Metzler, sp. nov. is one of 27 new species of insects discovered during an inventory survey of arthropods of White Sands National Monument, USA, and Cuatrociénegas Protected Area (Mexico), funded by the U.S. National Park Service. The Cuatrociénegas Basin is known for high endemism of aquatic and wetland biota within the Chihuahuan Desert. Callistege clara Homziak & Metzler, sp. nov. was found in a wetland environment.
["Biological diversity hotspot"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Revision of Streblocera Westwood (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Euphorinae) from China, with the description of seven new species
The Chinese fauna of the euphorine genus Streblocera Westwood, 1833 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) is revised. Seven new species from China are described and illustrated: Streblocera (Eutanycerus) carinifera Li, Chen and van Achterberg, sp. nov., S. (E.) laterostriata Li, Chen and van Achterberg, sp. nov., S. (E.) uncifera Li, Chen and van Achterberg, sp. nov., S. (S.) interrupta Li, Chen and van Achterberg, sp. nov., S. (S.) stigenbergae Li, Chen and van Achterberg, sp. nov., S. (S.) trullifera Li, Chen and van Achterberg, sp. nov., and S. (S.) zoroi Li, Chen and van Achterberg, sp. nov. An identification key to the females of Streblocera from China is provided.
["Townesilitini"]

Conotrachelus terryerwini, a majestic new species of Curculionidae (Molytinae, Conotrachelini) from Costa Rica
A very large, new, and distinctive species of Conotrachelus Dejean is described from Área de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Conotrachelus terryerwini sp. nov. (type locality Volcan Orosi, Estación Biológica Maritza, Guanacaste, Costa Rica) is described and named in honor of Terry L. Erwin (1940–2020), famed carabidologist and biodiversity champion. This majestic species is easily distinguished by its large body size (15–20 mm) and extremely long rostrum (especially in females).
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A revision of the Neotropical genus Coptoborus Hopkins (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini)
The Neotropical xyleborine ambrosia beetle genus Coptoborus Hopkins is reviewed. The following 40 Coptoborus species are described: C. amplissimus sp. nov. (Peru), C. asperatus sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. barbicauda sp. nov. (French Guiana), C. bettysmithae sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. brevicauda sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. brigman sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. busoror sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. capillisoror sp. nov. (Brazil), C. chica sp. nov. (Suriname), C. crassisororcula sp. nov. (Peru), C. doliolum sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. erwini sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. furiosa sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. galacatosae sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. hansen sp. nov. (Brazil), C. incomptus sp. nov. (Peru), C. janeway sp. nov. (Peru), C. katniss sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. leeloo sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. leia sp. nov. (Ecuador, Suriname), C. leporinus sp. nov. (Peru), C. martinezae sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. murinus sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. newt sp. nov. (Peru), C. osbornae sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. panosus sp. nov. (French Guiana), C. papillicauda sp. nov. (Suriname), C. pilisoror sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. ripley sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. sagitticauda sp. nov. (Guyana), C. sarahconnor sp. nov. (Brazil), C. scully sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. sicula sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. sororcula sp. nov. (Peru), C. starbuck sp. nov. (Ecuador), C. trinity sp. nov. (Brazil), C. uhura sp. nov. (Peru), C. vasquez sp. nov. (Panama), C. vrataski sp. nov. (Brazil), and C. yar sp. nov. (Ecuador). Seventeen new combinations are given: Coptoborus amazonicus (Petrov, 2020) comb. nov., C. atlanticus (Bright & Torres, 2006) comb. nov., C. bellus Bright & Torres, 2006 comb. nov., C. coartatus (Sampson, 1921) comb. nov., C. crinitulus (Wood, 1974) comb. nov., C. exilis (Schedl, 1934) comb. nov., C. incultus (Wood, 1975) comb. nov., C. magnus (Petrov, 2020) comb. nov., C. micarius (Wood, 1974) comb. nov., C. obtusicornis (Schedl, 1976) comb. nov., C. paurus (Wood, 2007) comb. nov., C. pristis (Wood, 1974) comb. nov., C. pseudotenuis (Schedl, 1936) comb. nov., C. puertoricensis (Bright & Torres, 2006) comb. nov., C. ricini (Eggers, 1932) comb. nov., C. semicostatus (Schedl, 1948) comb. nov., C. tristiculus (Wood, 1975) comb. nov., and C. villosulus (Blandford, 1898) comb. nov. Two new synonyms are proposed: Coptoborus Hopkins, 1915 (= Theoborus Hopkins, 1915 syn. nov.) and Coptoborus villosulus (Blandford, 1898) (= Theoborus theobromae Hopkins, 1915 syn. nov.). Xyleborus neosphenos Schedl, 1976 comb. res. is removed from Coptoborus. The revised genus now contains 77 species and a key to their identification is provided.
["Ambrosia beetles"]

Flea beetles of the West Indies: the genus Hemilactica Blake, 1937 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
The West Indian flea beetle genus Hemilactica Blake, 1937 is reviewed. Two new species, both from the Dominican Republic are described and illustrated: H. erwini sp. nov. and H. sierramatringarcia sp. nov. In addition, images of the holotypes of H. portoricensis Blake, H. pulchella Blake, and H. rugosa Blake are provided. Lactica megaspila (Blake) is transferred to Hemilactica. A lectotype of H. quatuordecimpunctata (Suffrian, 1868) is designated and illustrated, and a key to the Hemilactica species and a key for identification of Hemilactica and related genera occurring in the Western Hemisphere are provided.
["Beetle diversity"]

The preimaginal stages of Galerita ruficollis Dejean, 1825 and the position of the tribe Galeritini in the classification of ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
The complete development cycle of Galerita (Galerita) ruficollis Dejean, 1825 was studied for the first time. In laboratory, at a temperature of 22 °C and long-day conditions, the development from egg to adult lasted 58–60 days. The development of the third instar larva lasted particularly long (on average, 19 days), and the most intense increase in biomass (from 20 to 100 mg) was observed at that phase as well. The extended embryonic development (11–20 days) and the relatively short development time of the third instar larva were found to be characteristic of G. ruficollis. The bifurcated protrusion of the anterior edge of the head was proven to represent an outgrowth of the frontal sclerite (frontale), but not of the nasale, as believed previously. The chaetotaxy of Galerita larvae is described in detail for the first time. Based on larval features, the monophyly of the Galeritini + Dryptini group is confirmed. Based on the morphology of the larvae and pupae, this group can be suggested as occupying a separate position within the Truncatipennia, possibly being related to the assemblage that includes Pterostichini, Harpalini, Licinini, Chlaenini, and Platynini. The monophyly of Zuphiitae (sensu Erwin and Sims 1984; Erwin 1985) and the Zuphiitae clade (sensu Ober and Maddison 2008) is confirmed.
["Carabidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Biodiversity in tropical rainforests: Calleida Dejean, 1825 at the BIOLAT Biological Station, Rio Manu, Peru, with descriptions of seven new species (Coleoptera Carabidae, Lebiini). Part 1
A monographic contribution is presented on the species of the genus Calleida Dejean, 1825 at the BIOLAT Biological Station, Rio Manu, Pakitza, Peru, sampled by Terry Erwin and his co-workers. The following seven new species are described: C. solitaria sp. nov., C. manuensis sp. nov., C. anomala sp. nov., C. demathani sp. nov. (type locality: Peru, Tarapoto, but sampled also at Rio Manu), C. erwini sp. nov., C. marginithorax sp. nov., and C. maxima sp. nov. Relationships of each species are discussed, and a preliminary survey is presented of the genus Calleida in Peru.

The ground beetle tribe Platynini Bonelli, 1810 (Coleoptera, Carabidae) in the southern Levant: dichotomous and interactive identification tools, ecological traits, and distribution
The carabids of the tribe Platynini from the southern Levant (Egypt: Sinai Peninsula, Israel, Jordan) and adjacent regions of Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia are reviewed in terms of species taxonomy, ecological, distributional traits, and conservation biology. In addition to a classical dichotomous identification key to the 14 species of the region, identification tools are made freely available via the Xper3 knowledge database “Platynini, southern Levant”. Besides an interactive identification key, a matrix with character states for the species and single access identification keys are available. A database including all available records from the southern Levant is also provided. First faunistic records are recorded for Anchomenus dorsalis infuscatus from Sinai (Egypt), Olisthopus fuscatus from Lebanon and Iraq, and for O. glabricollis from Iraq. Threatened species are discussed, also with regard to the reasons of their decline. The majority of species lives in wetlands, especially on the shore of winter ponds and streams, which have been extremely degraded in the last decades.
["Agonum"]

The genus Diplocheila Brullé, 1834 in Cambodia, with descriptions of two new species (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Licinini)
The Diplocheila species recorded from Cambodia are discussed and two new species, Diplocheila walterrossii sp. nov. and D. erwini sp. nov. are described. Moreover, the holotypes of D. laevigata (Bates, 1892) and D. laevigotoides Jedlička, 1936, two often misinterpreted species from the Oriental Region, are illustrated and some aspects of their morphology are clarified. Finally, an analytical key to all species recorded from Cambodia is provided.
["Diplocheila erwini sp. nov."]

Phylogenetic systematics of the genera of Thryptocerina Jeannel, 1949 and new species from New Caledonia (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Oodini)
The Oodini precinctive to New Caledonia are reviewed with nine species recognized, of which seven are newly described in two genera. Five species are described in the genus Coptocarpus Chaudoir: C. microps sp. nov., C. erwini sp. nov., C. amieuensis sp. nov., C. magnus sp. nov., and C. lescheni sp. nov. In the genus Adelopomorpha Heller two species, A. tethys sp. nov. and A. tuberculata sp. nov., are described. In order to place cladistically the newly described species in a genus, a phylogenetic analysis of a matrix of 36 characters of adult morphology was conducted including exemplar species of three putative outgroup genera, six putative ingroup thryptocerine oodine genera, and all oodine species from New Caledonia. Results show support for Thryptocerina and monophyly of Adelopomorpha. Hoplolenus LaFerté-Sénectère is not monophyletic and Hoplolenus cyllodinus Fauvel is newly combined as Coptocarpus cyllodinus comb. nov. New Caledonian species of Coptocarpus form a clade, but the Australian species of the genus included in the analysis are rendered paraphyletic by African and Malagasy genera. Implications of this preliminary study for the classification of Oodini and trends in the evolution of the female reproductive tract are discussed. A key to the New Caledonian species of Oodini is provided.
["Cladistic analysis"]

Systematic revision of the trans-Bassian moriomorphine genus Theprisa Moore (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
The Australian genus Theprisa Moore, 1963, is taxonomically revised to comprise five species, two newly described: Theprisa darlingtoni Liebherr & Porch, sp. nov. of Tasmania, and Theprisa otway Liebherr, Porch & Maddison, sp. nov. from the Otway Ranges, Victoria. Two previously described species, T. australis (Castelnau) and T. montana (Castelnau), are distributed in the mountains of Victoria. The third previously described species, T. convexa (Sloane) is found in Tasmania. A lectotype is designated for T. convexa because the various syntypes are ambiguously labelled. Cladistic analysis based on morphological characters establishes monophyly of Theprisa relative to the Australian genera Sitaphe Moore and Spherita Liebherr. This and a second clade of Australian genera (Pterogmus Sloane, Thayerella Baehr, and Neonomius Moore) do not form a natural group, but are cladistically interdigitated among two monophyletic New Zealand lineages (Tarastethus Sharp, and Trichopsida Larochelle and Larivière) suggesting substantial trans-Tasman diversification among these groups. Hypothesized relationships within Theprisa are consistent with two bouts of speciation involving the Bass Strait; an initial event establishing T. convexa as adelphotaxon to the other four species, and a more recent event establishing the sister species T. darlingtoni and T. montana. Geographic restriction of T. otway to the Otway Ranges is paralleled by Otway endemics in several other carabid beetle genera, as well as by endemics in numerous other terrestrial arthropod taxa. Whereas these numerous Otway endemics support the distinctive nature of the Otway Range fauna, their biogeographic relationships are extremely varied, illustrating that the Otways have accrued their distinctive biodiversity via various means.
["Allopatric speciation"]

A rich fauna of subterranean short-range endemic Anillini (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae) from semi-arid regions of Western Australia
Globally, the great majority of Anillini species are endogean, adapted to live in the interstices of soil and leaf litter, while the extremely low vagility of these minute ground beetles gives rise to numerous shortrange endemic species. Until recently the Australian Anillini fauna was known only from leaf litter in rain forests and eucalypt forests in the wetter, forested regions of eastern and south eastern Australia, as well as Lord Howe and Norfolk islands. The first hypogean Anillini in Australia (17 species in six genera) were described in 2016 from mineral exploration drill holes in iron-ore bearing rocks of the Pilbara region in Western Australia, representing the first finding of the tribe deep underground in a semi-arid climate region. A further eight new genera and 20 new species are described herein, mostly from the Pilbara region as well as the semi-arid Kimberley and Goldfields regions; all were collected in mineral exploration drill holes. The following new genera are described: Erwinanillus gen. nov., Gregorydytes gen. nov., Pilbaraphanus gen. nov., Neoillaphanus gen. nov., Kimberleytyphlus gen. nov., Gilesdytes gen. nov., Pilbaradytes gen. nov., and Bylibaraphanus gen. nov. The following new species are described: Erwinanillus baehri sp. nov.; Gracilanillus hirsutus sp. nov., G. pannawonicanus sp. nov.; Gregorydytes ophthalmianus sp. nov.; Pilbaraphanus chichesterianus sp. nov., P. bilybarianus sp. nov.; Magnanillus firetalianus sp. nov., M. sabae sp. nov., M. salomonis sp. nov., M. regalis sp. nov., M. serenitatis sp. nov.; Neoillaphanus callawanus sp. nov.; Kimberleytyphlus carrboydianus sp. nov.; Austranillus jinayrianus sp. nov.; Gilesdytes pardooanus sp. nov., G. ethelianus sp. nov.; Pilbaradytes abydosianus sp. nov., P. webberianus sp. nov.; Bylibaraphanus cundalinianus sp. nov.; and Angustanillus armatus sp. nov. Identification keys are provided for all Australian anilline genera, and Western Australian species. All the described species are known from a single locality and qualify as short-range endemics. The Anillini are recognised as a significant and diverse element making up part of Western Australia’s remarkable subterranean fauna, and whose conservation may potentially be impacted by mining developments.
["Drill holes"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Hawaiian Paratachys Casey (Coleoptera, Carabidae): small beetles of sodden summits, stony streams, and stygian voids
Five Hawaiian species of Paratachys Casey are revised, including four newly described: Paratachys terryli from Kauai; P. perkinsi from Moloka‘i; P. haleakalae from Maui; and P. aaa from Hawai‘i Island. A lectotype is designated for the fifth Hawaiian species currently combined with Paratachys, Tachys arcanicola Blackburn, 1878 of Oahu. Hawaiian Paratachys spp. known from more than one specimen exhibit some degree of ocular polymorphism, that variation being extreme in P. terryli where individuals range in ocular development from macrophthalmic with broadly convex eyes to microphthalmic with small, flat eyes. All Hawaiian Paratachys species comprise individuals with vestigial wings, with the exception of P. terryli, where a single macropterous, macrophthalmic female complements the other 18 brachypterous specimens. Based on a transformation series of characters from the male aedeagus, the biogeographic history of Hawaiian Paratachys is consistent with progressive colonization of the Hawaiian Island chain. Three of the species do not appear to represent species of conservation concern, with P. terryli and P. haleakalae known from terrestrial deep soil, litter, and streamside microhabitats in montane wet rain forest, and the troglobitic P. aaa occupying the dark zone of numerous, recently developed lava tube caves within the Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanic massifs. The conservation status of the other two species is much more dire, with P. arcanicola of O‘ahu not seen in nature since the early 20th Century, and P. perkinsi known only from a single specimen fortuitously collected in 1894 near sea level on Moloka‘i.
["Brachyptery"]

Yalongaphaenops erwini gen. et sp. nov., the world’s most high-altitude hypogean trechine beetle from China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
A new genus and new species of carabid beetle, Yalongaphaenops erwini gen. et sp. nov., is described from mountains SW of Mianning City, Sichuan Province, China. This finding, from one side, extends the known distribution of Chinese hypogean trechines, and from another, it raises the upper limit of their vertical distribution to nearly 4000 m. Photographs of the habitus and major taxonomic characters, including the male genitalia, right mandible, and microsculpture patterns of the integument are supplied. The type locality of the new taxon is mapped. Yalongaphaenops gen. nov. shows some similarities with the genus Shiqianaphaenops Tian, 2016 from eastern Guizhou and the genus Boreaphaenops Uéno, 2002 described from Hubei, China. However, the direct relationships of the new genus remain unclear. Further new discoveries of hypogean trechines in Sichuan are necessary to evaluate possible variation of major characters in allied taxa. Although Y. erwini sp. nov. was collected at an elevation exceeding 3800 m a.s.l., it conforms to the upper limit of the forest zone being approximately on par with the vertical distribution of some high altitude hypogean trechine species in other parts of the globe.
["Carabids"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A preliminary phylogeny and review of the genus Tasmanitachoides, with descriptions of two new species (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Bembidarenini)
The genus Tasmanitachoides Erwin, a genus of very small carabid beetle endemic to Australia, is reviewed. Although uncommon in collections, they can be abundant and diverse on banks of fine gravel or coarse sand next to bodies of fresh water; samples from southeastern Australia suggest numerous undescribed species. An initial phylogenetic hypothesis for the genus is presented, including 19 of the 32 known species. The inferred phylogeny, based upon one mitochondrial and four nuclear genes, shows the kingi group to be sister to remaining Tasmanitachoides, with the wattsensis group and T. lutus (Darlington) also being phylogenetically isolated. Two new species are described: T. baehri sp. nov., from the Australian Capital Territory, is a member of the kingi group; T. erwini sp. nov., from Tasmania, is a member of the wattsensis group. Identification tools for described and some undescribed species are presented, including photographs of all known species.

Phylogeny of the supertribe Nebriitae (Coleoptera, Carabidae) based on analyses of DNA sequence data
The phylogeny of the carabid beetle supertribe Nebriitae is inferred from analyses of DNA sequence data from eight gene fragments including one nuclear ribosomal gene (28S), four nuclear-protein coding genes (CAD, topoisomerase 1, PEPCK, and wingless), and three mitochondrial gene fragments (16S + tRNA-Leu + ND1, COI (“barcode” region) and COI (“Pat/Jer” region)). Our taxon sample included 264 exemplars representing 241 species and subspecies (25% of the known nebriite fauna), 39 of 41 currently accepted genera and subgenera (all except Notiokasis and Archileistobrius), and eight outgroup taxa. Separate maximum likelihood (ML) analyses of individual genes, combined ML analyses of nuclear, nuclear protein-coding, and mitochondrial genes, and combined ML and Bayesian analyses of the eight-gene-fragment matrix resulted in a well-resolved phylogeny of the supertribe, with most nodes in the tree strongly supported. Within Nebriitae, 167 internal nodes of the tree (out of the maximum possible 255) are supported by maximum-likelihood bootstrap values of 90% or more. The tribes Notiophilini, Opisthiini, Pelophilini, and Nebriini are well supported as monophyletic but relationships among these are not well resolved. Nippononebria is a distinct genus more closely related to Leistus than Nebria. Archastes, Oreonebria, Spelaeonebria, and Eurynebria, previously treated as distinct genera by some authors, are all nested within a monophyletic genus Nebria. Within Nebria, four major clades are recognized: (1) the Oreonebria Series, including eight subgenera arrayed in two subgeneric complexes (the Eonebria and Oreonebria Complexes); (2) the Nebriola Series, including only subgenus Nebriola; (3) the Nebria Series, including ten subgenera arrayed in two subgeneric complexes, the Boreonebria and Nebria Complexes, with the latter further subdivided into three subgeneric subcomplexes (the Nebria, Epinebriola, and Eunebria Subcomplexes)); and (4) the Catonebria Series, including seven subgenera arrayed in two subgeneric complexes (the Reductonebria and Catonebria Complexes). A strong concordance of biogeography with the inferred phylogeny is noted and some evident vicariance patterns are highlighted. A revised classification, mainly within the Nebriini, is proposed to reflect the inferred phylogeny. Three genus-group taxa (Nippononebria, Vancouveria and Archastes) are given revised status and seven are recognized as new synonymies (Nebriorites Jeannel, 1941 and Marggia Huber, 2014 = Oreonebria Daniel, 1903; Pseudonebriola Ledoux & Roux, 1989 = Boreonebria Jeannel, 1937; Patrobonebria Bänninger, 1923, Paranebria Jeannel, 1937 and Barbonebriola Huber & Schmidt, 2017 = Epinebriola Daniel & Daniel, 1904; and Asionebria Shilenkov, 1982 = Psilonebria Andrewes, 1923). Six new subgenera are proposed and described for newly recognized clades: Parepinebriola Kavanaugh subgen. nov. (type species: Nebria delicata Huber & Schmidt, 2017), Insulanebria Kavanaugh subgen. nov. (type species: Nebria carbonaria Eschscholtz, 1829), Erwinebria Kavanaugh subgen. nov. (type species Nebria sahlbergii Fischer von Waldheim, 1828), Nivalonebria Kavanaugh subgen. nov. (type species: Nebria paradisi Darlington, 1931), Neaptenonebria Kavanaugh subgen. nov. (type species: Nebria ovipennis LeConte, 1878), and Palaptenonebria Kavanaugh subgen. nov. (type species: Nebria mellyi Gebler, 1847). Future efforts to better understand relationships within the supertribe should aim to expand the taxon sampling of DNA sequence data, particularly within subgenera Leistus and Evanoleistus of genus Leistus and the Nebria Complex of genus Nebria.

Onthophagus pilauco sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae): evidence of beetle extinction in the Pleistocene–Holocene transition in Chilean Northern Patagonia
The South American Pleistocene–Holocene transition has been characterized by drastic climatic and diversity changes. These rapid changes induced one of the largest and most recent extinctions in the megafauna at the continental scale. However, examples of the extinction of small animals (e.g., insects) are scarce, and the underlying causes of the extinction have been little studied. In this work, a new extinct dung beetle species is described from a late Pleistocene sequence (~15.2 k cal yr BP) at the paleoarcheological site Pilauco, Chilean Northern Patagonia. Based on morphological characters, this fossil is considered to belong to the genus Onthophagus Latreille, 1802 and named Onthophagus pilauco sp. nov. We carried out a comprehensive revision of related groups, and we analyzed the possible mechanism of diversification and extinction of this new species. We hypothesize that Onthophagus pilauco sp. nov. diversified as a member of the osculatii species-complex following migration processes related to the Great American Biotic Interchange (~3 Ma). The extinction of O. pilauco sp. nov. may be related to massive defaunation and climatic changes recorded in the Plesitocene-Holocene transition (12.8 k cal yr BP). This finding is the first record of this genus in Chile, and provides new evidence to support the collateral-extinction hypothesis related to the defaunation.
["Dung beetle"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Taxonomy of three species of the genus Spinoncaea (Copepoda, Oncaeidae) in the North Pacific Ocean with focus on morphological variability
Three species of Spinoncaea Böttger-Schnack, 2003 are newly recorded in three locations of the equatorial and temperate Pacific Ocean collected by using a net of 60 μm mesh size. For all three species, morphological characters and patterns of ornamentation were analyzed in detail and illustrations of both sexes, also including form variants of the females, are provided. For the first time, information about the variability of various continuous (morphometric) characters are given, such as the spine lengths on the rami of the swimming legs or the proportions of urosomites. The complementary morphological descriptions of the Pacific specimens focus on similarities or modifications of characters as compared to earlier descriptions of these species from the type locality and various other localities. For S. ivlevi (Shmeleva, 1966), originally but insufficiently described from the Adriatic Sea, the Pacific material is similar in most aspects to the comprehensive redescription of the species from the Red Sea and from the type locality, except for a difference in the morphometry of the distal endopod segment on the antenna, which is discussed here. For S. tenuis Böttger-Schnack, 2003, and S. humesi Böttger-Schnack, 2003, the Pacific material mostly coincides with the characteristic features as described in the original account from the Red Sea. For all three species, differences and/or additions in ornamentation details were found in Pacific specimens (e.g., on the intercoxal sclerite of the first swimming leg or on the genital somite of the male) and females with aberrant morphology were detected. Genetic analyses based on 12S srRNA revealed for two species, S. ivlevi and S. humesi, little or no differences in genetic sequences between Pacific specimens and those recorded from the Mediterranean Sea, thus demonstrating that specimens from both locations are conspecific. For S. tenuis, for which no comparable genetic data are available, 12S srRNA amplification was unsuccessful as was the amplification of mitochondrial COI (barcoding) for all three species. The applicability of using COI amplification for barcoding of oncaeid copepods is discussed.
["Molecular"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Two species? – Limits of the species concepts in the pygmy grasshoppers of the Tetrix bipunctata complex (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae)
Today, integrative taxonomy is often considered the gold standard when it comes to species recognition and delimitation. Using the Tetrix bipunctata complex, we here present a case where even integrative taxonomy may reach its limits. The Tetrix bipunctata complex consists of two morphs, bipunctata and kraussi, which are easily distinguished by a single character, the length of the hind wing. Both morphs are widely distributed in Europe and reported to occur over a large area in sympatry, where they occasionally may live also in syntopy. The pattern has led to disparate classifications, as on the one extreme, the morphs were treated merely as forms or subspecies of a single species, on the other, as separate species. For this paper, we re-visited the morphology by using multivariate ratio analysis (MRA) of 17 distance measurements, checked the distributional data based on verified specimens and examined micro-habitat use. We were able to confirm that hind wing length is, indeed, the only morphological difference between bipunctata and kraussi. We were also able to exclude a mere allometric scaling. The morphs are, furthermore, largely sympatrically distributed, with syntopy occurring regularly. However, a microhabitat niche difference can be observed. Ecological measurements in a shared habitat confirm that kraussi prefers a drier and hotter microhabitat, which possibly also explains the generally lower altitudinal distribution. Based on these results, we can exclude classification as subspecies, but the taxonomic classification as species remains unclear. Even with different approaches to classify the Tetrix bipunctata complex, this case is, therefore, not settled. We recommend continuing to record kraussi and bipunctata separately.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Revision of the genus Coccidula Kugelann (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
The genus Coccidula Kugelann includes five species distributed in the Holarctic, with one species in North America and four in Palearctic region. Coccidula belongs to the tribe Coccidulini which historically was treated as a separate subfamily within ladybird beetles, but recent studies confirmed its placement as a tribe within the broadly defined subfamily Coccinellinae. All species are revised and a new synonymy of Lithophilus naviauxi Duverger with C. litophiloides Reitter is proposed. Light and electron microscopy pictures support morphological descriptions. An identification key to all species is also provided.
["Coccinelloidea"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Molecular and morphological systematics of a new, reef forming, cupped oyster from the northern Arabian Gulf: Talonostrea salpinx new species
The rocky northern shores of Kuwait and those of the western, inner shores of Kuwait Bay are dominated by a small, densely encrusting oyster. The identity of this oyster has never been confirmed and was mistaken previously for a small Saccostrea. The shell morphology suggests that this species belongs to the subfamily Crassostreinae, but within that subfamily, the presence of marginal erect trumpet-shaped projections is so far unique. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA sequence data confirmed that this species belongs to the Crassostreinae and has a sister position to the clade including Talonostrea talonata and T. zhanjiangensis. Genetic distance between this species and Talonostrea species is remarkably high, being ~20% for the cytochrome oxidase I gene and ~7% for the 16S rRNA gene. Based on morphological and molecular analyses, this oyster is therefore described here as Talonostrea salpinx Oliver, Salvi & Al-Kandari, sp. nov. Shell morphology is shown to be variable, and the different forms encountered are described. The wider distribution and origins of this species, whether native or introduced, are discussed.
["Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Two new species of the family Megalyridae (Hymenoptera) from China
Two new species of the small and rarely collected family Megalyridae are described from China: Carminator daliensis Chen & Liuhe, sp. nov. from Yunnan and Ettchellsia hainanensis Chen & Liuhe, sp. nov. from Hainan. A key to megalyrid species of China is provided. The biogeographical implication of the new taxa is discussed.
["Megalyroidea"]

An updated inventory of sea slugs from Koh Tao, Thailand, with notes on their ecology and a dramatic biodiversity increase for Thai waters
Improved access to field survey infrastructure throughout South-East Asia has allowed for a greater intensity of biodiversity surveys than ever before. The rocky bottoms and coral reef habitats across the region have been shown to support some of the highest sea slug biodiversity on the planet, with ever increasing records. During the past ten years, intensive SCUBA surveys have been carried out at Koh Tao, in the Gulf of Thailand, which have yielded remarkable findings in sea slug biology and ecology. In this work a brief history of sea slug biodiversity research from Thailand is covered and a complete inventory of sea slugs from Koh Tao, Gulf of Thailand is provided. This inventory is based on surveys from 2012 to 2020, with previously unreported findings since 2016. Habitat specificity and species-specific ecology are reported where available with a focused comparison of coral reef habitats and deeper soft-sediment habitats. The findings contribute 90 new species records for Thai waters (92 for the Gulf of Thailand) and report a remarkable consistency in the proportional diversity found to be exclusive to one habitat type or another. Additionally, taxonomic remarks are provided for species documented from Koh Tao that have not been discussed in past literature from Thailand, and a summary of previous records in the Indo-West Pacific is given.
["Biodiversity exploration"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

The complete mitochondrial genome of Pentatoma rufipes (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Pentatoma rufipes (Linnaeus, 1758) is an important agroforestry pest widely distributed in the Palaearctic region. In this study, we sequence and annotate the complete mitochondrial genome of P. rufipes and reconstruct the phylogenetic trees for Pentatomoidea using existing data for eight families published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database. The mitogenome of P. rufipes is 15,887-bp-long, comprising 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and a control region, with an A+T content of 77.7%. The genome structure, gene order, nucleotide composition, and codon usage of the mitogenome of P. rufipes were consistent with those of typical Hemiptera insects. Among the protein-coding genes of Pentatomoidea, the evolutionary rate of ATP8 was the fastest, and COX1 was found to be the most conservative gene in the superfamily. Substitution saturation assessment indicated that neither transition nor transversion substitutions were saturated in the analyzed datasets. Phylogenetic analysis using the Bayesian inference method showed that P. rufipes belonged to Pentatomidae. The node support values based on the dataset concatenated from protein-coding and RNA genes were the highest. Our results enrich the mitochondrial genome database of Pentatomoidea and provide a reference for further studies of phylogenetic systematics.
["Mitogenome"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The true colours of the Formidable Pygmy Grasshopper (Notocerus formidabilis Günther, 1974) from the Sava region (Madagascar)
The Formidable Pygmy Grasshopper, Notocerus formidabilis Günther, 1974 (Tetrigidae: ‘Malagasy Metrodorinae’), is certainly a stunning, extraordinary insect. Despite the fact that the species was described almost 50 years ago, its beauty had remained completely hidden until recently. The bright yellow colouration of the minute warts on its dorsal hump and even brighter purple-yellowish colouration of its abdomen have been, tragically, completely lost in museum specimens. Luckily, photographs of three live females taken in 2007, 2009 and 2015 were recently uploaded to the iNaturalist platform by the first author of this paper, where they were identified as N. formidabilis by the middle and last authors. Along with a male and a female discovered in the MNHN collections (Paris) and the holotype female, these are the only records of the species. All six records are presented and depicted in the present study, and the variation of the species is discussed for the first time. This rare species seems to be endemic to NE Madagascar, a region of truly wonderful diversity.
["Anjanaharibe-Sud"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Morphology of the first three zoeal stages of the deep-sea caridean shrimp Heterocarpus fascirostratus Yang, Chan & Kumar, 2018 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Pandalidae)
The larvae of the deep-sea pandalid shrimp Heterocarpus fascirostratus Yang, Chan & Kumar, 2018 were successfully hatched and cultured to the third zoeal stage. The larvae reached the third zoeal stage nine days after hatching at a water temperature of 21 ± 1 °C. Although members of Heterocarpus A. Milne-Edwards, 1881 have rather diverse body forms and are often separated into many species groups, the early zoeal morphology of H. fascirostratus follows the general developmental pattern of the species in Heterocarpus. The main differences amongst these larvae are body size, spines on the anteroventral margin of the carapace, and the endopod setation of the third maxilliped.
["Laboratory rearing"]

Six new species of Horniella Raffray from the Oriental region (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
The Oriental pselaphine genus Horniella Raffray, 1905 currently contains 29 species. In this paper, six new species are described: H. nantouensis Zhang, Hu & Yin, sp. nov. and H. taiwanensis Zhang, Hu & Yin, sp. nov. from Taiwan, China; H. bifurca Zhang & Yin, sp. nov. and H. haucki Zhang & Yin, sp. nov. from Thailand; H. khasiensis Zhang & Yin, sp. nov. from northern India; and H. sabahensis Zhang & Yin, sp. nov. from eastern Malaysia. In addition, H. aculeata Yin & Li, 2015, originally described from Yunnan, China, is newly recorded from Thailand.
["Ant-loving beetles"]

Ichthyofauna in the last free-flowing river of the Lower Iguaçu basin: the importance of tributaries for conservation of endemic species
The fish fauna from the Lower Iguaçu River and tributaries upstream of the Iguaçu Falls, the last free-flowing river stretch, were investigated. Twenty five sites in tributaries and the main channel were sampled between 2010 and 2016 using several kinds of fishing gear. The species were categorized according to their size, origin, and conservation status. Species richness and abundance in the main channel and tributaries were compared. In total, 87,702 specimens were recorded, comprising 76 species, 25 families, 53 genera, and eight orders. Characiformes and Siluriformes were the richest orders, representing 92% of the total specimens; Characidae, Cichlidae, Pimelodidae, and Loricariidae were the richest families. The fish fauna was composed of small and medium-sized species and included endemic (42%), autochthonous (24%), allochthonous (21%), and exotic (9%) species, as well as hybrids (4%). Significant differences in the relative numerical abundance of species were found among sites. Ancistrus mullerae and Rhamdia branneri (endemic) were indicator species for tributaries inside of Iguaçu National Park (INP), while Phalloceros harpagos (autochthonous) and Ictalurus punctatus (exotic) for tributaries outside of INP and Odontesthes bonariensis (allochthonous) for the main channel. The last dam-free stretch of the Lower Iguaçu River and tributaries upstream the Iguaçu Falls exhibits a rich endemic fish fauna, including some rare, endangered species (Steindachneridion melanodermatum, Gymnogeophagus taroba, and Psalidodon gymnogenys). These findings are essential to predict and understand the effects caused by the new Baixo Iguaçu Hydroelectric Power Plant and highlight the importance of tributaries and Iguaçu National Park for conservation of endemic species.
["Abundance"]

New species and records of Venturia Schrottky (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Campopleginae) from China and Nepal
Four new species of Venturia Schrottky, 1902 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Campopleginae) from Oriental China and Nepal are described (V. contiguus sp. nov. and V. yunnanensis sp. nov. from China; V. liuae sp. nov. and V. levocarinata sp. nov. from Nepal). In addition, two species are reported from China (V. serpentina Maheshwary, 1977 and V. inclyta (Morley, 1923)) for the first time and all listed species are illustrated. A key to all species from China and Nepal is provided.
["Lepidoptera"]

A review of the spider-attacking Polysphincta dizardi species-group (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae), with descriptions of seven new species from South America
The Neotropical Polysphincta dizardi species-group is revised. We describe seven new species from South America: P. bonita sp. nov., P. cosnipata sp. nov., P. inca sp. nov., P. macroepomia sp. nov., P. organensis sp. nov., P. pichincha sp. nov., and P. teresa sp. nov. In addition, we provide a diagnosis and an identification key to all species of the group.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Integrative taxonomy of Nearctic and Palaearctic Aleocharinae: new species, synonymies, and records (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
A long tradition of separate Nearctic and Palaearctic taxonomic studies of the diverse aleocharine rove beetles (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) has obscured the recognition of Holarctic species and detection of adventive species in both regions. Recently, integrated study of the two regions through detailed morphological comparisons and development of an authoritatively identified DNA barcode reference library has revealed the degree to which these two aleocharine faunas are interconnected, both naturally and through human activity. Here this approach is adopted to recognize new species, reveal Holarctic species, and recognize adventive species in both North America and Europe. The following new species are described: Isoglossa triangularis Klimaszewski, Brunke & Pentinsaari, sp. nov. from British Columbia; Gnypeta impressicollis Klimaszewski, Brunke & Pentinsaari, sp. nov., from Ontario, Maryland and North Carolina; Aloconota pseudogregaria Klimaszewski, Brunke & Pentinsaari, sp. nov., from Ontario and Virginia; and Philhygra pseudolaevicollis Klimaszewski, Brunke & Pentinsaari, sp. nov. from eastern Canada. Dasygnypeta velata and Philhygra angusticauda are revealed to be Holarctic species, resulting in the following synonymies: Dasygnypeta velata (Erichson, 1839) = Gnypeta minuta Klimaszewski & Webster, 2008, syn. nov. and Philhygra angusticauda (Bernhauer, 1909) = Atheta (Philhygra) pinegensis Muona, 1983, syn. nov. The Nearctic species Hylota ochracea (and genus Hylota), Thecturota tenuissima, and Trichiusa robustula are newly reported from the Palaearctic region as adventive, resulting in the following synonymies: Hylota ochracea Casey, 1906 = Stichoglossa (Dexiogyia) forticornis Strand, 1939, syn. nov.; Thecturota tenuissima Casey, 1893 = Atheta marchii Dodero, 1922, syn. nov.; and Trichiusa robustula Casey, 1893 = T. immigrata Lohse, 1984, syn. nov. The Palaearctic species Amarochara forticornis, Anomognathus cuspidatus, Oligota pumilio, and Parocyusa rubicunda are newly confirmed from the Nearctic region as adventive, resulting in the following synonymies: Parocyusa rubicunda (Erichson, 1837) = Chilopora americana Casey, 1906, syn. nov. and Anomognathus cuspidatus (Erichson, 1839) = Thectura americana Casey, 1893, syn. nov. The genus Dasygnypeta, sensu nov. is newly reported from North America, Paradilacra is newly reported from eastern North America, and Haploglossa is newly reported from Canada, resulting in the following synonymy: Paradilacra densissima (Bernhauer, 1909) = Gnypeta saccharina Klimaszewski & Webster, 2008, syn. nov. Native Cyphea wallisi is newly reported from across Canada and C. curtula is removed from the Nearctic fauna. The status of both Gyrophaena affinis and Homalota plana is uncertain but these species are no longer considered to be adventive in North America. Three new combinations are proposed: Dasygnypeta baranowskii (Klimaszewski, 2020) and D. nigrella (LeConte, 1863) (both from Gnypeta) and Mocyta scopula (Casey, 1893) (from Acrotona). Dolosota Casey, 1910, syn. nov. (type species Eurypronota scopula Casey), currently a subgenus of Acrotona, is therefore synonymized with Mocyta Mulsant & Rey, 1874. Additionally, four new Canadian records and 18 new provincial and state records are reported.
["Canada"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Overview of Indian and Nepali representatives of the Cincticostella nigra (Uéno, 1928) complex (Ephemeroptera, Ephemerellidae), with discussion about Cincticostella Allen, 1971 species complexes
The concept of the Cincticostella nigra (Uéno, 1928) (Ephemeroptera: Ephemerellidae) complex is clarified and Indian and Nepali representatives of the complex are reviewed. Four new species are described viz. Cincticostella changfai Martynov & Palatov, sp. nov., Cincticostella funki Martynov, Selvakumar, Palatov & Vasanth, sp. nov., Cincticostella shinichii Martynov & Palatov, sp. nov. and Cincticostella wangi Selvakumar, Martynov & Subramanian, sp. nov. The larva of C. corpulenta (Braasch, 1981) is re-described, based on the holotype and paratypes. Cincticostella gosei (Allen, 1975) is recorded from India for the first time. Morphological differences of the species complexes of Cincticostella Allen, 1971 are analysed. A new species complex, Cincticostella gosei complex, is proposed. Summaries of distribution data and habitat preferences, as well as new larval diagnoses, are presented for all species of the Cincticostella nigra complex.

Revision of the Palaearctic species of Lysitermus Foerster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Hormiinae)
The three Palaearctic species of Lysitermus Foerster, 1863 (Braconidae, Hormiinae, Lysitermini) are revised. The type species is described for the first time together with both of the other species. Lysitermus suecicus (Hedqvist, 1957) is a new synonym of L. tritoma (Bouček, 1956), and L. longiventris (Tobias, 1976) of L. talitzkii (Tobias, 1971), stat. nov.
["Bulgaria"]

New or little-known Boreoheptagyia (Diptera, Chironomidae) in China inferred from morphology and DNA barcodes
The male adult of Boreoheptagyia zhengi Lin & Liu, sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on material collected in China. Associated morphological characteristics and reference to its DNA barcode are provided. Boreoheptagyia kurobebrevis (Sasa & Okazawa, 1992) is newly recorded from China based on both a male and female, with additional associated data on the DNA barcode of the male adult. A neighbor-joining tree based on available Boreoheptagyia DNA barcodes and a key to the adults of Boreoheptagyia from China are given.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A new Antipathozoanthus species (Cnidaria, Hexacorallia, Zoantharia) from the northwest Pacific Ocean
A new species of zoantharian within the genus Antipathozoanthus is described based on specimens collected from the coast of mainland Japan, northwest Pacific Ocean. Antipathozoanthus tubus sp. nov. is characterized by its substrate (epibiotic on polychaete tube) and habitat (exposed rock). As well, the results of molecular phylogenetic analyses using concatenated multiple genetic markers also support the distinction between A. tubus sp. nov. and its congenerics. Antipathozoanthus tubus sp. nov. is the first species of Antipathozoanthus species reported to be epibiotic on polychaete tubes, and is the second species in the genus that is not associated with antipatharians.
["molecular phylogeny"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Two new crane fly species of the subgenus Vestiplex Bezzi, 1924 (Diptera, Tipulidae, Tipula) from Yunnan and Sichuan, China, with a key to species in the immota species group
Two new crane fly species, Tipula (Vestiplex) gongdangensis sp. nov. and T. (V.) dechangensis sp. nov. are described and illustrated based on materials collected in the Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, China. A key is provided to distinguish males of the new species from those of other species in the T. (V.) immota Alexander, 1935 species group which is proposed here for the first time.
["Hypopygium"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology"]

First record of the genus Pseudamblyopus (Coleoptera, Erotylidae) in China, with description of a new species
The genus Pseudamblyopus Araki 1941 is reported from China for the first time. Pseudamblyopus sinicus Liu & Li sp. nov. is described and illustrated and one species previously placed in Scelidopetalon Delkeskamp 1957 is transferred to Pseudamblyopus resulting in the following new combination: Pseudamblyopus varicolor (Arrow 1925). A key to all known species of Pseudamblyopus is given.
["new combination"]

High endemicity in aquatic dance flies of Corsica, France (Diptera, Empididae, Clinocerinae and Hemerodromiinae), with the description of a new species of Chelipoda
All known records of aquatic dance flies (Empididae, Clinocerinae: 21 species; Hemerodromiinae: eight species) from the island of Corsica (France) are summarized, including previously unpublished data and data on the newly described species Chelipoda puschae Ivković, Perović & Grootaert, sp. nov. This species was collected during the “La Planète Revisitée Corsica 2019” survey and represents the first description of a new species in the genus Chelipoda from the European–Mediterranean region in more than 180 years. A key to European species of Chelipoda is provided. Including the new species, five species are recorded from Corsica for the first time: Dolichocephala malickyi Wagner, 1995, Dolichocephala oblongoguttata (Dale, 1878), Dolichocephala ocellata (Costa, 1854), Chelifera subangusta Collin, 1961, and Hemerodromia unilineata Zetterstedt, 1842. The new species is described and illustrated, and new records of aquatic dance flies from Corsica are given, with new data on 17 species in eight different genera. At present, 29 species of aquatic dance flies are known from Corsica, with 10 species endemic to the island.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Describing the hidden species diversity of Chaetozone (Annelida, Cirratulidae) in the Norwegian Sea using morphological and molecular diagnostics
Using molecular markers and species delimitation analyses, a high diversity of bi-tentaculate Cirratulidae was discovered from the North-East Atlantic. Five new species are described: Chaetozone pseudosetosa sp. nov., Chaetozone quinta sp. nov., Chaetozone barentsensis sp. nov., Chaetozone monteverdii sp. nov., and Chaetozone chambersae sp. nov. Several morphogroups are also described, even though the presence of cryptic diversity prevented naming of individual species. For each species presented, a molecular diagnostic is given from the universal barcode COI and, when available, the D1–D2 domains of the 28S rRNA. This increases the number of species in Chaetozone in northern European waters from ten to at least 17 species, the exact number of species remaining uncertain as taxonomic issues with older names remain unresolved.
["Continental shelf"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Out of the blue: The first record of the genus Heremites Gray, 1845 (Squamata, Scincidae) from Pakistan
The genus Heremites Gray, 1845 is endemic to the Western Palearctic region, containing morphologically similar species with a not well resolved taxonomy. The genus has a broad distribution from North Africa to Central Asia, with the only known record from northeastern Afghanistan. Three species are currently recognized in the genus with one, H. septemtaeniatus (Reuss, 1834), representing populations at the eastern edge of the genus range. During extensive fieldwork, we discovered H. septemtaeniatus from northwestern Pakistan and provisionally suggest that this population could be morphologically defined as H. septemtaeniatus transcaucasicus (Chernov, 1926). This important contribution to the knowledge regarding the family Scincidae in Pakistan, however, needs further investigation using an integrative approach.
["Afghanistan"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new species of Nemoura (Plecoptera, Nemouridae) and supplementary description of Amphinemura cordiformis from the Nanling Mountains of southern China
Two species of Nemouridae are described and illustrated from the Nanling Mountains of southern China, including a new species, Nemoura biplatta sp. nov. from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and a new regional record species, Amphinemura cordiformis Li & Yang, 2006 from Hunan Province. The morphological characteristics of the new species are compared to related taxa and the new images with supplementary description of A. cordiformis are also provided.
["Mangshan National Natural Reserve"]

A new species of Pilarella (Copepoda, Calanoida, Arietellidae) from the hyperbenthic layer of Japan, with a molecular phylogenetic analysis of some representative genera of the Arietellidae
A new species of the continental shelf hyperbenthic genus Pilarella is described, the first from the Indo-Pacific. This is the second species of Pilarella known, and the first description of a male in the genus. The new species is easily distinguished from other species of Pilarella (P. longicornis) based on: (1) short caudal rami, approximately 1.5 times longer than wide; (2) 2 setae on the mandibular endopod; (3) 6 setae on the maxillular coxal epipodite; and (4) in the female, a short left antennule reaching the posterior border of the genital double-somite. The new diagnosis of Pilarella differs from Metacalanus in the separation of ancestral segments IX–XII and XIV–XV of the antennule, and the presence of 5–6 setae on the maxillular praecoxal arthrite. Pilarella is also separated from Metacalanalis based on the absence of a seta on the third ancestral segment of the antennary exopod, the symmetry of legs 1–3, the presence of a medial basal seta on the female leg 5, and 2 lateral exopodal spines on the female leg 5. A molecular phylogenetic analysis of some representative genera of the family Arietellidae, including the present new species, recovers two arietellid clades (Metacalanus- and Arietellus-clades) as in previous studies. Dichotomous keys for the genera of Arietellidae and the species of Pilarella are included.
["Arietelloidea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

A new genus and species of Hydrobiidae Stimpson, 1865 (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea) from Peloponnese, Greece
Minute caenogastropod brackish-water gastropods, formerly classified as Hydrobia, are important elements of the brackish-water fauna and were objects of intensive study for many years. Until now, five genera have been distinguished, most of them represented by a number of species, but rather indistinguishable without molecular data (cytochrome oxidase subunit I – COI). In the eastern Mediterranean region, they are still poorly studied. In this paper, we present a new species of “Hydrobia” from the brackish Moustos spring, Arkadia, eastern Peloponnese, Greece. The shell, protoconch, radula, female reproductive organs, and penis are described and illustrated, together with the molecular (COI) relationships with other hydrobiids. All data confirm that these snails represent a distinct taxon, which must be classified as a new species belonging to a new genus. The formal descriptions are given. The closest, sister taxon is Salenthydrobia Wilke, 2003. The molecularly estimated time of divergence, 5.75 ± 0.49 Mya, coincides with 5.33 Mya, which is the time of the Oligocene flooding that terminated the Messinian salinity crisis. During the latter period, brackish “Lago-Mare” habitats were most probably suitable for the last common ancestor of Salenthydrobia and the newly described genus. Later, the Pliocene flooding isolated the Apennine and Peloponnese populations, promoting speciation.
["Cytochrome oxidase subunit I"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Taxonomic study of the Oriental genus Catullioides Bierman, 1910 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Tropiduchidae), with description of a new species from China
The tropiduchid genus Catullioides Bierman, 1910 is redescribed and illustrated. Catullioides includes two species, C. rubrolineata Bierman, 1910 (the type species) and C. taishunensis Zhu, Wang & Song, sp. nov. A key to the species of the genus is provided.
["Catulliini"]

Composition and diversity of butterflies (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) along an atmospheric pollution gradient in the Monterrey Metropolitan Area, Mexico
This study compares the variation of richness, abundance and diversity of butterfly species along an atmospheric pollution gradient and during different seasons in the Monterrey Metropolitan Area, Mexico. Likewise, we analyse the influence of environmental variables on the abundance and richness of butterfly species and quantify the indicator species for each atmospheric pollution category. Based on spatial analysis of the main atmospheric pollutants and the vegetation cover conditions, four permanent sampling sites were delimited. The sampling was carried out monthly in each of the sites using aerial entomological nets and ten Van Someren-Rydon traps during May 2018 to April 2019. A total of 8,570 specimens belonging to six families and 209 species were collected. Both species richness and abundance were significantly different between all sites, except for the comparison between the moderate contamination site and the high contamination site; diversity decreased significantly with increasing levels of contamination. The seasonality effect was absent on species richness; however, for species abundance the differences between dry season and rainy season were significant in each site excepting the moderate contamination site. Regarding diversity, the seasonal effect showed different distribution patterns according to each order. Relative humidity, vegetation cover and three pollution variables were highly correlated with both abundance and species richness. From the total number of species found, only 47 had a significant indicator value. This study constitutes the first faunistic contribution of butterflies as indicators of the environmental quality of urban areas in Mexico, which will help in the development of strategies for the management, planning and conservation of urban biodiversity.
["Atmospheric pollution"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Redescription of Gnorimosphaeroma oregonense (Dana, 1853) (Crustacea, Isopoda, Sphaeromatidae), designation of neotype, and 16S-rDNA molecular phylogeny of the north-eastern Pacific species
Gnorimosphaeroma oregonense (Dana, 1852) is revised, a male neotype is designated, photographed, and illustrated; the species occurs from Vancouver British Columbia to the central California coast. 16S-rDNA sequences (~650 bp) for all available ethanol preserved species of Gnorimosphaeroma were used to hypothesize their relationships. Our analyses revealed a sister taxon relationship between the fully marine G. oregonense and the brackish to freshwater species, G. noblei. The oyster associated and introduced G. rayi is sister to a previously not recognized or identified, but genetically distinct, Gnorimosphaeroma sp. collected at two sites in San Francisco Bay. Gnorimosphaeroma sp. is probably also a western Pacific species based on its genetic relationship to G. rayi. Photographic comparisons are offered for G. oregonense (marine), G. noblei (freshwater), G. rayi (introduced), G. sp. (presumably introduced), and G. insulare (San Nicolas Island). Records of the holdings at the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History are summarized. Without material available north of Vancouver through Alaska, the range of G. oregonense could not be genetically verified. This review includes a diagnosis and description of the genus Gnorimosphaeroma Menzies, 1954.
["Brackish"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Three new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Songthela (Araneae, Mesothelae) from Guizhou Province, China
We diagnose and describe three new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Songthela from Guizhou Province, China, based on morphological characters and molecular data: S. liui sp. nov. (♂♀), S. tianzhu sp. nov. (♂♀), and S. yuping sp. nov. (♂♀). We provide the genetic distances within and among the three new species based on the DNA barcode gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) to support our descriptions. We also provide the COI GenBank accession codes for the three new species for future identification.

The third species of the genus Pachypaederus Fagel, 1958 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from the Oriental region
A new species of Pachypaederus Fagel, 1958, P. kongshuhensis Li, sp. nov., is described from Yunnan Province, China. This species represents the third member of the genus from the Oriental region. Color plates of the habitus, labrum, mandibles, sternites VII–IX of the male and female, as well as the aedeagal structures are provided. A key to Oriental Pachypaederus species is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Two new bamboo-feeding species of the genus Kirbyana Distant, 1906 from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae)
Two new bamboo-feeding species of the cixiid planthopper genus Kirbyana Distant, 1906 (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Cixiidae: Eucarpiini), K. aspina Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. and K. furcata Zhi & Chen, sp. nov., are described and illustrated from southern China. A key to all known species and a map of their geographic distributions are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

First record of Paegniodes Eaton, 1881 (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) from Thailand with description of a new species
A new species of Heptageniidae, Paegniodes sapanensis sp. nov., is described based on larvae, subimagos, eggs, and COI data. The mayfly genus Paegniodes Eaton, 1881 is reported for the first time from Thailand. The larva of the new species can be distinguished from other known Paegniodes species by i) lamellae of gill I ca 1/4 of fibrilliform portion and ii) mandibles and basal segment of maxillary palp without dense setae on margin. The subimago characters useful to distinguish this new species from previously known species are i) the median stripes on abdominal terga and ii) shape of the female subgenital and subanal plates. The genetic distance between the new species and P. cupulatus (Eaton, 1871) was approximately 11%. The morphological characters of the new species are discussed and compared to other known species.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species group of Strumigenys (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Ecuador, with a description of its mandible morphology
Strumigenys is one of the most diverse ant genera in the world and arguably the most morphologically diverse, exhibiting an exceptional range of mandible shape and function. A new species, Strumigenys ayersthey sp. nov., discovered in the Chocó region of Ecuador is described. With two morphological characters, this species is shown to be a morphologically unique outlier among Strumigenys globally, having predominately smooth and shining cuticle surface sculpturing and long trap-jaw mandibles. Using µCT scans, we produced 3D images of the worker ant and static images to examine and compare mandible articular morphologies with most morphologically similar members of the mandibularis species group. Cuticular, pilosity, and articular mandible morphological differences supports placing the new species in its own new species group.
["3D scan"]

Two new species of Archaeopodagrion (Odonata, Philogeniidae) from the western foothills of the Tropical Andes, with biological observations and distributional records
Two new species of the damselfly genus Archaeopodagrion, A. recurvatum sp. nov. and A. mayi sp. nov., are described from the confluence of the Tropical Andes and the Tumbes-Chocó-Magdalena biodiversity hotspots. Adults differ from the other known species in the shape of female posterior lobe of pronotum and male structures of cerci and paraprocts; the larva differs from other Archaeopodagrion species in the caudal lamellae structure and in the mandibular formula. The two new species are diagnosed, a morphological key to all known males and females in the genus is provided, and geographical distributions are updated. Finally, observations on habitat preferences for each newly described species are provided.
["Biodiversity hotspots"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Two new cryptic species of Microhyla Tschudi, 1838 (Amphibia, Anura, Microhylidae) related to the M. heymonsi group from central Vietnam
The Microhyla heymonsi species complex from central Vietnam was examined, and based upon morphological and molecular evidence, two new species are described. The discovery of Microhyla daklakensis sp. nov. and Microhyla ninhthuanensis sp. nov. brings the total number of known species in the genus to 46 and the species number of Microhyla in Vietnam to 13. The Truong Son Range harbors the highest diversity of the genus Microhyla with 11 recorded species so far. However, this apparent micro-endemic diversity is at risk because of habitat loss by deforestation, which highlights the necessity of further research leading to improved conservation measures.
["Microhyla"]

Land snails and slugs of Bau limestone hills, Sarawak (Malaysia, Borneo), with the descriptions of 13 new species
This study presents a list of land snails and slugs found on limestone hills in the District of Bau, the state of Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo. Systematic and random sampling for land snails was conducted at eight limestone outcrops, namely, Gunung Stulang, Padang Pan, Gunung Kapor, Gunung Lobang Angin, Gunung Doya, Gunung Batu, Bukit Sekunyit and Gunung Sebayat. A total of 122 land snail species was documented with photographs of each species. Of the 122 species collected, 13 are new to science, namely, Acmella bauensis sp. nov., Japonia bauensis sp. nov., Plectostoma margaretchanae sp. nov., Microcystina arabii sp. nov., Microcystina atoni sp. nov., Microcystina paripari sp. nov., Microcystina lirata sp. nov., Microcystina oswaldbrakeni sp. nov., Microcystina kilat sp. nov., Philalanka jambusanensis sp. nov., Everettia microrhytida sp. nov., Everettia minuta sp. nov., and Paralaoma sarawakensis sp. nov.

Revision of the spider family Zodariidae (Arachnida, Araneae) in Iran and Turkmenistan, with seventeen new species
Species of the spider family Zodariidae occurring in Iran and Turkmenistan are reviewed. Seventeen species of three subfamilies are described as new to science: Lachesana kavirensis sp. nov. (♂, Qom; northern Iran), L. perseus sp. nov. (♂, Alborz; northern Iran) (Lachesaninae), Pax ellipita sp. nov. (♂♀, Kermanshah and Lorestan; western Iran), P. leila sp. nov. (♂♀, Fars; southwestern Iran) (Storeninae), Acanthinozodium armita sp. nov. (♂, Tehran; northern Iran), A. atrisa sp. nov. (♂♀, Qazvin and Tehran; northern Iran), A. diara sp. nov. (♂, Ilam and Lorestan; western Iran), A. dorsa sp. nov. (♂♀, Fars; southern Iran), A. elburzicum sp. nov. (♂♀, Tehran; northern Iran), A. kiana sp. nov. (♂, Kurdistan; western Iran), A. masa sp. nov. (♂, Kermanshah; western Iran), A. niusha sp. nov. (♂♀, Fars, Isfahan and Markazi; central Iran), A. ovtchinnikovi sp. nov. (♂, Mary; southeastern Turkmenistan), A. parmida sp. nov. (♂, Isfahan; central Iran), A. parysatis sp. nov. (♂♀, Ardabil and Qazvin; northern and northwestern Iran), A. sorani sp. nov. (♂, East Azerbaijan and Kurdistan; northwestern and western Iran) and Trygetus susianus sp. nov. (♀, Khuzestan; southwestern Iran) (Zodariinae). Zodariellum Andreeva & Tyshchenko, 1968, currently comprising only the type species (Z. surprisum Andreeva & Tyshchenko, 1968) is rediagnosed, with the following species being (re)transferred to it: Z. asiaticum (Tyshchenko, 1970) comb. res., Z. bactrianum (Kroneberg, 1875) comb. nov., Z. bekuzini (Nenilin, 1985) comb. res., Z. chaoyangense (Zhu & Zhu, 1983) comb. res., Z. continentalis (Andreeva & Tyshchenko, 1968) comb. res., Z. furcum (Zhu, 1988) comb. res., Z. mongolicum Marusik & Koponen, 2001 comb. res., Z. proszynskii (Nenilin & Fet, 1985) comb. res., Z. nenilini (Eskov, 1996) comb. res., Z. surprisum Andreeva & Tyshchenko, 1968 comb. res., Z. schmidti Marusik & Koponen, 2001 comb. res., Z. sytchevskajae (Nenilin & Fet, 1985) comb. res. and Z. volgouralensis Ponomarev, 2007 comb. res. (all ex. Zodarion); out of these, Z. proszynskii Nenilin & Fet, 1985, previously known only from the type locality in Turkmenistan, is recorded from northeastern Iran for the first time. This paper raises the number of zodariids known from Iran to 22 species from seven genera (including the first Iranian records of Acanthinozodium Denis, 1966, Pax Levy, 1990 and Zodariellum) and those known from Turkmenistan to five species from five genera (including the first record of Acanthinozodium from this country). Regional distribution records of all species are mapped.
["Ant-eating spiders"]

Tigriopus iranicus sp. nov., a new species of Harpacticidae (Copepoda, Crustacea) from Iran, with a redescription of T. raki Bradford, 1967
The first representative of Tigriopus Norman, 1869 from the north-western Indian Ocean is described from rock pools on the Iranian coast. Tigriopus iranicus sp. nov. is distinguishable from its congeners by i) the possession of two maxillary endites, each with two setae; ii) a two-segmented mandibular endopod; iii) P1 enp-3 with one pinnate claw, a well-developed geniculate spine and a small seta; and iv) female P6 with two setae. Additionally, we present a complete redescription of Tigriopus raki Bradford, 1967 on the basis of paratype material and a key to the species of the genus.
["Harpacticoida"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Taxonomic studies on the sac spider genus Clubiona (Araneae, Clubionidae) from Xishuangbanna Rainforest, China
Spiders of the genus Clubiona Latreille, 1804 from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China are studied. A total of 47 species is reported and illustrated, including 14 new species and two new synonyms. Twelve of the new species belong to four species groups: C. dengpao Yu & Li, sp. nov., C. subdidentata Yu & Li, sp. nov., C. tixing Yu & Li, sp. nov., C. xiaoci Yu & Li, sp. nov., C. xiaokong Yu & Li, sp. nov., C. yejiei Yu & Li, sp. nov., C. zhaoi Yu & Li, sp. nov. and C. zhigangi Yu & Li, sp. nov. from the C. corticalis group; C. mii Yu & Li, sp. nov. and C. subtongi Yu & Li, sp. nov. from the C. ternatensis group; C. banna Yu & Li, sp. nov. from the C. filicata group; and C. menglun Yu & Li, sp. nov. from the C. trivialis group. The remaining two new species, C. shuangsi Yu & Li, sp. nov. and C. wangchengi Yu & Li, sp. nov., are not readily assignable to any of the existing species groups. The female of C. cochlearis Yu & Li, 2019, the female of C. tiane Yu & Li, 2019, the female of C. bicornis Yu & Li, 2019, the male of C. lala Jäger & Dankittipakul, 2010 and the true female of C. suthepica Dankittipakul, 2008 are described for the first time. Two new synonyms are: C. vukomi Jäger & Dankittipakul, 2010 syn. nov. = C. circulata Zhang & Yin, 1998; C. melanothele Thorell, 1895 syn. nov. = Clubiona melanosticta Thorell, 1890. A checklist of Clubiona species from Xishuangbanna is provided. The DNA barcodes of almost all of the species were obtained for species delimitation, matching of sexes and future use.

Taxonomic study of the genus Ischnothyreus (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Xishuangbanna Rainforest, southwestern China
Eight species of the genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China are recognized, including six new species: I. cristiformis Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), I. mangun Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), I. mengyang Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), I. peltifer (Simon, 1892), I. qidaoban Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), I. qiuxing Tong & Li, 2020 (♂♀), I. sijiae Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♀) and I. xiaolongha Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). The male of I. qiuxing Tong & Li, 2020 is described for the first time. Photos of the habitus and copulatory organs are provided.
["Goblin spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

On nine species of the spider genus Eriovixia (Araneae, Araneidae) from Xishuangbanna, China
Species of the genus Eriovixia Archer, 1951 from Menglun Town, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China are reviewed, including seven new species: E. ganae sp. nov. (♂♀), E. liuhongi sp. nov. (♂♀), E. tangi sp. nov. (♂♀), E. wangchengi sp. nov. (♂♀), E. yaoi sp. nov. (♂♀), E. yinae sp. nov. (♂♀) and E. zhengi sp. nov. (♂♀). The male of E. yunnanensis (Yin, Wang, Xie & Peng, 1990) is described for the first time. The previous description of E. yunnanensis from Tengchong, Yunnan by Mi et al. (2010) refers to E. pengi sp. nov. (♂♀). Diagnostic photos of the habitus and copulatory organs of the new species and E. yunnanensis from Xishuangbanna are provided.
["Misidentified"]

Morphological and genetic evidence supports the separation of two Tapinoma ants (Formicidae, Dolichoderinae) from the Atlantic Forest biome
The taxonomic boundaries of many Neotropical ant species of the genus Tapinoma are still unclear. Tapinoma atriceps and T. atriceps breviscapum are two morphologically similar taxa which occur sympatrically in the southern Atlantic Forest of Brazil. Some characters such as the scape length and head shape suggest that these taxa may be different species. We used DNA analysis and morphological evidence, including scanning electron microscopy, to evaluate the taxonomic validity of these taxa. We found distinct morphological characteristics that allow separating them as two different species, Tapinoma atriceps and Tapinoma breviscapum status novo, and this decision is supported by the DNA results, where Tapinoma atriceps was recovered as a lineage independent of T. breviscapum.
["Cryptic diversity"]

Revision of the Afrotropical genus Fainia Zumpt, 1958, with notes on the morphology of Rhiniidae subfamilies (Diptera, Oestroidea)
The taxonomy and diversity of Fainia Zumpt, 1958, an exclusive Afrotropical genus, had not been reviewed recently. The genus included six nominal species, but the status of several of them was debated. Identification of most Fainia species depends on characters of the male terminalia; females are poorly known and, in several cases, are not adequately diagnosed. We conducted a taxonomic revision of the genus and generated identification tools. Based on the study of type material and specimens available in entomological collections in Africa and Europe, we recognise here three of the six species as valid (F. albitarsis (Macquart, 1846), F. elongata (Bezzi, 1908) and F. inexpectata Zumpt, 1973). We also provide an identification key to both sexes, redescriptions of the species, updated distribution records and high resolution photographs of males’ and females’ habitus and male terminalia. The description of Fainia kagerana Lehrer, 2007a nom. nud. is an invalid nomenclatural act in terms of ICZN Article 13.1.1. Based on examinations of their holotypes, F. sambura Lehrer, 2008 syn. nov. is proposed as a junior synonym of F. albitarsis; F. kirinyaga Lehrer, 2007b syn. nov. is proposed as a junior synonym of F. inexpectata; and Fainia giriama Lehrer, 2007b is moved from the genus Fainia to the genus Rhinia Robineau-Desvoidy, as Rhinia giriama (Lehrer, 2007b) comb. nov.. We propose two apomorphies that support the status of the subfamily Rhiniinae.
["Apomorphies"]

Revision of Korean species of the genus Batriscenellus Jeannel (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Batrisitae) with description of one new species
The genus Batriscenellus Jeannel, 1958 (type species: Batrisus fragilis Sharp) includes 35 species and is known from South Korea, China, Japan, Russia, and India. Three species, B. vicarius, B. auritus, and B. orientalis have been documented from the Korean Peninsula. One additional species, Batriscenellus koreanus sp. nov., is described as new. Redescriptions of the Korean species, a species key, illustration of habitus, and diagnostic characters are provided.
["Batrisini"]
["Quality and Supply Management", "Employee Performance and Management", "Collaboration in agile enterprises"]

Neotropical Nilothauma Kieffer, 1921 (Diptera, Chironomidae): Key, eleven new species, re-descriptions, new combination and new records
Nine new species of Nilothauma Kieffer, N. hamadae sp. nov., N. jupau sp. nov., N. karitiana sp. nov., N. leccii sp. nov., N. marianoi sp. nov., N. mateusi sp. nov., N. txukuyana sp. nov., N. werekena sp. nov. and N. yekwana sp. nov. are described and figured, based on adult males collected in Brazil and N. maya sp. nov. on an adult male from Mexico; N. terena sp. nov. is described as male, pupa and larva based on a reared specimen from Brazil. Nilothauma aleta Roback, 1960 and N. duena Roback, 1960 are re-described and recorded from Brazil. Nilothauma longissimum Mendes & Andersen, 2009 is transferred to Beardius Reiss & Sublette, 1985 and the diagnosis of Nilothauma is emended. New records of thirteen Neotropical Nilothauma species are given and a key to the males of all known species of Nilothauma is provided.
["Brazil"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Study of Mite Species"]

Earthworm species in Musa spp. plantations in Brazil and worldwide
Bananas and plantains are major commodity/food crops that represent an important habitat for earthworms, although so far, no review is available on earthworm communities associated with banana/plantain crops worldwide. The Vale do Ribeira region is among the largest banana producing areas in Brazil, but little is known of the earthworms living there. Hence, the present study assessed earthworm populations and species in three banana plantations and adjacent Atlantic forest fragments along the Ribeira de Iguape River using standard (hand sorting) methodologies. Furthermore, we review earthworm populations reported in banana/plantain plantations worldwide. Only two species (Pontoscolex corethrurus, Amynthas gracilis) belonging to two families (Rhinodrilidae, Megascolecidae) were found in the Ribeira River valley, occurring concurrently. Abundance was low (< 13 indiv. m-2) compared with other banana plantations worldwide, that frequently surpassed 100 indiv. m-2. More than 70 studies reported earthworms from >200 banana plantations in 28 countries, and mean species richness was 2.7 per site, ranging from 1 to 10 species. Exotics predominated in most sites and P. corethrurus was the most prevalent species encountered. Overall, more than 104 species from 10 families were reported, with around 61 native and 43 exotic widespread species, mainly of the Megascolecidae, Lumbricidae and Acanthodrilidae families. Richness was highest in India (27 spp.) and the Canary Islands (25 spp.), but native species dominated only in a few countries and sites, while exotics were prevalent especially in island countries and Brazil. Lower-input practices appear to be important for earthworm communities and banana plantations can have large earthworm populations in some cases, which may be contributing to soil processes and plant production, topics that deserve further attention. However, many important banana-producing countries have not yet been evaluated, so further work is warranted, both in terms of applied ecology and biodiversity.
["Annelida"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Banana Cultivation and Research", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics"]

Genome sequencing reveals extraordinary cephalic horns in the Madagascan dung beetle genus Helictopleurus (Coleoptera, Scarabaeinae): insight from a revision of fungicola species group
In this study, we test and corroborate the phylogenetic position of Heterosyphus within Helictopleurus using mitogenomes and nuclear loci. Our recent samplings revealed that males of the former Heterosyphus sicardi Paulian, 1975 (today under Helictopleurus d’Orbigny, 1915) have extraordinary bilateral clypeal horns which are exclusive within the genus. We provide a taxonomic review of the fungicola species group of Helictopleurus and discuss the systematic position of H. sicardi within the group. The male phenotype of H. sicardi is described and photographs of the body and genitalia of the members of the fungicola group are given, as well as a diagnostic key to species of the group. Helictopleurus fungicola peyrierasi is considered to be a distinct species within the genus (H. peyrierasi stat. rest.). Helictopleurus pluristriatus d’Orbigny, 1915 syn. nov. is established as a junior synonym of H. fungicola (Fairmaire, 1899).
["dung beetles"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new species of Hemiptarsenus Westwood (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) from China, with a key to Chinese species
A new species, Hemiptarsenus jilinus Tao, sp. nov., is described and illustrated. All the type specimens were reared from Chromatomyia horticola (Goureau) (Diptera: Agromyzidae), a leafminer attacking the plants Ixeris polycephala Cass. and Pterocypsela indica (L.) Shih, in Jilin Province, north-eastern China. A key to Chinese species of the genus is provided.

A review of the taxonomy of spiny-backed orb-weaving spiders of the subfamily Gasteracanthinae (Araneae, Araneidae) in Thailand
Spiny-backed orb-weaving spiders of the subfamily Gasteracanthinae are broadly distributed in the Old World. Despite their use as a model species in biology, evolution, and behavior because of their extraordinary characteristics, the systematics of this group of spiders are still poorly understood. This study elucidates the systematics of Gasteracanthinae in Thailand based on morphological and molecular-based analyses. In total, seven species from three genera, namely Gasteracantha, Macracantha, and Thelacantha, were recorded in Thailand. Shape of abdominal spines, pattern of sigilla, and female genitalia are significant characters for species identification. In contrast, coloration shows highly intraspecific variation in most species within Gasteracanthinae. A phylogenetic tree based on partial sequences of COI, 16S, and H3 genes recovered Gasteracanthinae as a monophyletic group and supports the existence of three clades. Gasteracantha hasselti is placed as a sister taxon to Macracantha arcuata. Hence, we propose to transfer G. hasselti to Macracantha. Moreover, molecular species delimitation analyses (ABGD, bPTP, and GMYC) using 675 bp of COI gene support all nominal species, with evidence of possible additional cryptic species.
["Gasteracanthinae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Rhodolitica on rhodoliths: a new stoloniferan genus (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Alcyonacea)
Rhodolitica occulta gen. nov. et sp. nov. (Clavulariidae) is described from Cocos Island National Park, Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica. The species was found at various islets and rocky outcrops around the island, 20−55 m in depth. The genus is characterised by tubular, single, erect anthosteles interconnected by thin basal ribbon-like stolons on the surfaces of living rhodoliths. The anthosteles are devoid of fused sclerites, which are only present in the stolons. Coenenchymal sclerites are mostly spindles of various shapes, with a characteristic cylindrical warty type in the outer layer, crosses and radiates. Anthocodiae are armed with points, lacking collarets. Colonies and sclerites are red. Using an integrative taxonomic approach, we separate the new genus from similar genera through both morphological comparison and a molecular phylogenetic analysis. This research is a contribution to the knowledge of the octocoral biodiversity in Cocos Island and marine biodiversity in the eastern tropical Pacific.

Mountainous millipedes in Vietnam. I. Two new species of the family Paradoxosomatidae from Mount Fansipan (Diplopoda, Polydesmida)
Two new paradoxosomatid millipede species were discovered at the high elevations of Mount Fansipan in northwestern Vietnam. They are named as Orthomorphoides sapa sp. nov. and Hylomus solenophorus sp. nov. In addition to their morphological descriptions, sequences from fragments of two mitochondrial genes, COI and 16S rRNA, are also provided for both new species.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Description of three new species of Automeris Hübner, 1819 from Colombia and Brazil (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae, Hemileucinae)
The Saturniidae is one of the most emblematic families of moths, comprising nearly 3000 species distributed globally. In this study, DNA barcode analysis and comparative morphology were combined to describe three new species within the genus Automeris, which is the most diverse genus in the family. Automeris llaneros Decaëns, Rougerie & Bonilla, sp. nov., Automeris mineros Decaëns, Rougerie & Bonilla, sp. nov., and Automeris belemensis Decaëns, Rougerie & Bénéluz, sp. nov. are described from the Colombian Orinoco watershed, the Colombian Eastern Cordillera, and the area of endemism of Belém in the Brazilian Amazonia, respectively. They all belong to the Automeris bilinea (Walker, 1855) species subgroup, which comprises a number of species that are sometimes difficult to distinguish from each other using morphology alone. Here, the description of these three new species is based on significant differences from their closest relatives, either in terms of wing patterns, genitalia, DNA barcodes or a combination of these features.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Belarima violacea (Lucas, 1847) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae), a new genus and species for the European fauna
Belarima violacea (Lucas) is an uncommon species of the Galerucini tribe (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae) distributed in Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia, and recorded here for the first time for the European fauna. One male and one female were found, not far from each other, wandering on the sand among the vegetation of the shifting dunes of the Tuscan coast (Rosignano Solvay, Spiagge Bianche). Some hypotheses are proposed to explain the presence of B. violacea on the Italian coast. Morphological descriptions of external habitus, aedeagus and spematheca, the latter here described for the first time, are also provided, accompanied by micro-photographs.
["Belarima violacea"]

The resin bee subgenus Ranthidiellum in Thailand (Megachilidae, Anthidiini): nesting biology, cleptoparasitism by Stelis, and new species
Resin bees of the subgenus Ranthidiellum, are rare and endemic to Southeast Asia. These bees are known to construct resinous entrance tubes to their nests. Here, the new species Anthidiellum (R.) phuchongensis sp. nov. is described along with a description of its nest collected from Phu Chong Na Yoy National Park, Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand. In addition, the bee cleptoparasite, Stelis (Malanthidium) flavofuscinular sp. nov., and the male of A. (R.) ignotum Engel, 2009, are described for the first time. A key to Ranthidiellum species is also provided.
["Anthidiellum"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

The first two blind troglobitic spiders of the genus Ochyrocera from caves in Floresta Nacional de Carajás, state of Pará, Brazil (Araneae, Ochyroceratidae)
The first two anophthalmic species of spiders of the genus Ochyrocera Simon, 1892, are described for caves located in the iron formation of Floresta Nacional (FLONA) de Carajás in southeastern Pará State, Brazil. The caves are located in the municipalities of Parauapebas and Canaã dos Carajás, in the eastern portion of the Amazon Forest domain. Ochyrocera ritxoco sp. nov. and O. ritxoo sp. nov. are described based on males and females. The species have similar body characteristics with the total absence of eyes and complete depigmentation, characteristics that indicate possible evolution in subterranean environments , and thus are classified as troglobites. Each species is associated with a single geomorphological unit (mountain range), with Ochyrocera ritxoco sp. nov. being restricted to caves of Serra Norte (North Mountain) and O. ritxoo sp. nov. to caves of Serra Sul (South Mountain). Both species were collected in aphotic zones of the caves. Small and tangled webs of O. ritxoco sp. nov. were observed under blocks of stone in the soil or in cracks of the walls.
["Amazonian region"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Redescription of Emplectonema viride – a ubiquitous intertidal hoplonemertean found along the West Coast of North America
Emplectonema viride Stimpson, 1857, a barnacle predator, is one of the most common and conspicuous intertidal nemerteans found along the West Coast of North America from Alaska to California, but it is currently referred to by the wrong name. Briefly described without designation of type material or illustrations, the species was synonymized with the Atlantic look-alike, Emplectonema gracile (Johnston, 1837) by Coe. Here we present morphological and molecular evidence that E. viride is distinct from E. gracile. The two species exhibit differences in color of live specimens and egg size and are clearly differentiated with species delimitation analyses based on sequences of the partial regions of the 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I genes. In order to improve nomenclatural stability, we re-describe E. viride based on specimens from the southern coast of Oregon and discuss which species should be the type species of the genus. Emplectonema viride was one of the two species originally included in the genus Emplectonema Stimpson, 1857, but subsequent synonymization of E. viride with E. gracile resulted in acceptance of the Atlantic species, E. gracile, as the type species of the genus. We resurrect E. viride Stimpson, 1857 and following Corrêa’s designation, this should be the type species of the genus Emplectonema.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

A new species of Liphistius from Myanmar and description of the actual male of L. birmanicus Thorell, 1897 (Araneae, Mesothelae, Liphistiidae)
Five Liphistius Schiödte, 1849 species of the primitively segmented spider family Liphistiidae are currently known from Myanmar. Here, we described a new species, Liphistius pyinoolwin sp. nov. (♂♀), which was collected from Pyin Oo Lwin, Mandalay Region, Myanmar, diagnosed based on its genital morphology. The specimens (2♂♂, 5♀♀) collected by Walter C. Sedgwick from Pyin Oo Lwin in 1982 were misidentified as L. birmanicus Thorell, 1897 and are treated here as the newly described species. Accordingly, we described the males of L. birmanicus for the first time, redescribed its female, using newly collected specimens from Yadò, Than Taung and Kalekho Atet townships, Kayin State. We also provided information on the variation in genital morphology of both species, and their relationships within the birmanicus-group of species.

Investigation of the Amathillopsidae (Amphipoda, Crustacea), including the description of a new species, reveals a clinging lifestyle in the deep sea worldwide
Amathillopsidae is a widely distributed, but rarely sampled family of deep-sea amphipods. During a recent expedition to the North Atlantic, specimens were filmed clinging to a polychaete tube in situ at abyssal depths by a Remote Operated Vehicle and then sampled for further study. The species was new to science and is described in detail herein. A barcode sequence is provided. Further investigations of photographic and video records revealed the genus Amathillopsis to be more widely distributed, both geographically and bathymetrically, than indicated by current literature records, and that these species occur at abyssal depths in all oceans. Specimens of Amathillopsis are reported clinging to a variety of different organisms whose erect structures provide the means to raise these charismatic deep-sea predators above the seafloor facilitating feeding opportunities.
["Benthic"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Natural history of Platypria (Platypria) hystrix (Fabricius, 1798) on Fabaceae host plants, with notes on other Platypria species in India (Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae, Hispini)
The leaf-beetle genus Platypria Guérin-Méneville, 1840 comprises two subgenera and 34 species (Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae: Hispini). Host plants are documented for eight species and indicate mostly perennial species of Fabaceae and Rhamnaceae. Larvae and pupae have been documented for two Platypria species. This paper presents novel natural history data, based on a field study of populations of Platypria (Platypria) hystrix (Fabricius, 1798) on Erythrina stricta Roxb. and Pueraria phaseoloides (Roxb.) Benth. in Kerala, south India and on Erythrina variegata L., Pueraria montana var. lobata (Willd.) Maes. & S. Almeida and Mucuna pruriens (L) DC in Assam, northeast India. Three new Fabaceae hosts are reported for P. (P.) hystrix. Brief notes and new host records, based on field observations, are also provided for the other three species of Platypria in India – P. (P.) chiroptera Gestro, 1899, P. (P.) echidna Guérin-Méneville, 1840 and P. (P.) erinaceus (Fabricius, 1801). Platypria females slit the leaf to lay a single egg which is covered with secretions that harden as an ootheca, the egg covering in Cassidinae s. l. There are five larval stages, each with the typical ‘hispine’ mining form and behaviour – a flattened cream-coloured body, chitinised head capsule and claws, and feeding on mesophyll and leaving irregular blotch mines on the host leaves. Pupation occurs in an independent pupal mine and lasts about a week. These observations suggest new potential phylogenetic character hypotheses that can stimulate better data collection on leaf-mining Cassidinae and help resolve evolutionary patterns amongst these basal mining genera.
["Leaf miner"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

A revision of the minor species group in the millipede genus Nannaria Chamberlin, 1918 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Xystodesmidae)
Millipedes in the family Xystodesmidae (Polydesmida) are often referred to as “colorful, flat-backed millipedes” for their bright aposematic coloration and tendency to form Müllerian mimicry rings in the Appalachian region. However, there are many species of Xystodesmidae that do not display colorful warning patterns, and instead have more cryptic appearances. Perhaps for this reason, groups such as the genus Nannaria have remained understudied, despite containing a large number of undescribed species. Before his death in 2012, R. L. Hoffman worked on a revision of the genus Nannaria, and synthesized material and drawings since 1949. Here the work is continued, inferring a molecular phylogeny of the Nannariini (Nannaria + Oenomaea pulchella), and revealing two clades within the genus. One clade is named the minor species group, and the second is the wilsoni species group. This revision, using a molecular phylogenetic framework, is the basis for descriptions of 35 new species in the minor species group. A multi-gene molecular phylogeny is used to make taxonomic changes in the taxon. Eleven putative species of Nannaria are also illustrated and discussed. Additionally, detailed collection, natural history and habitat notes, distribution maps, and a key to species of the Nannaria minor species group are provided. These items are synthesized as a basis for a revision of the genus, which hopefully will aid conservation and evolutionary investigations of this cryptic and understudied group.
["Appalachia"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Three new species of the genus Sycophila (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eurytomidae) from China
Three new species of Sycophila Walker (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae), S. hunanensis sp. nov., S. melanoloma sp. nov. and S. melanopoda sp. nov., are reported and described from mainland China. Meanwhile, Plagiotrochus glaucus Melika & Tang, 2011 (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae) is reported as a new host record of the genus Sycophila. A key to Chinese Sycophila and illustrations of external features of the species are provided.
["Chalcid wasp"]

The role of Indigenous and Community Conservation Areas in herpetofauna conservation: a preliminary list for Santa Cruz Tepetotutla, Oaxaca Mexico
The montane cloud forests of the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca (SMO) host a remarkable herpetofauna diversity and represent one of the most important areas of endemism for Mexico and Mesoamerica. Although the area has been previously studied, most of the extant records for this group are biased to locations accessed by paved roads. In addition, an important proportion of this territory is conserved by Indigenous and Community Conservation Areas (ICCA), but little information of the species occurring within these areas exists. Therefore, information on the distribution of many endemic taxa in this region to date is either underestimated or incomplete. With the aim of increasing the ecological and distributional knowledge of this group in remote areas, we carried out field surveys in Santa Cruz Tepetotutla Oaxaca, a locality 25 km in a straight line to the closest paved road that conserves 9,670 ha of land through the ICCAs modality. Surveys were made during 2018 and 2019, including both dry and wet seasons. A total of 40 species of amphibians and reptiles were recorded: 32.5% of these records represent distributional range extensions, while 20% represent altitudinal range extensions. A total of 17.5% are records of species under a high risk category, highlighting both the relevance of studying remote areas to increase species population knowledge and the role of community conservation actions for species persistence. Finally, our records include the rediscovery of Rhadinella schistosa, a species undetected for more than 50 years.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

The subfamily Thorictinae (Coleoptera, Dermestidae) from Saudi Arabia
In this study, the Saudi Arabian Thorictinae beetle species, Thorictus riyadhensis Háva & Abdel-Dayem, sp. nov., T. shadensis Háva & Abdel-Dayem, sp. nov., T. sharafi Háva & Abdel-Dayem, sp. nov., T. hanifahensis Háva & Abdel-Dayem, sp. nov. are described, illustrated, and compared with related species. Three other species: T. castaneus Germar, 1834; T. foreli Wasmann, 1894; and T. peyerimhoffi Chobaut, 1904 are excluded from the fauna of Saudi Arabia. A list of Thorictinae species from the Arabian Peninsula is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Four new coelotine species (Araneae, Agelenidae, Coelotinae) from South China, with the first description of the male of Coelotes septus Wang, Yin, Peng & Xie, 1990
Four new species are described from Jinggang Mountain National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi Province of southern China: Draconarius lingdang sp. nov. (♂♀), D. substrophadatus sp. nov. (♀), Orumcekia cipingensis sp. nov. (♀) and Tonsilla shuikouensis sp. nov. (♀). Additionally, Coelotes septus Wang, Yin, Peng & Xie, 1990 is redescribed and its male is described for the first time.
["Draconarius"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Thirty-five new species of the spider genus Pimoa (Araneae, Pimoidae) from Pan-Himalaya
Thirty-five new species of the Pimoa Chamberlin & Ivie, 1943 are described from Pan-Himalaya: P. anning Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. bomi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. cawarong Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. daman Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. danba Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. deqen Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. dongjiu Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. guiqing Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. gyaca Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. gyara Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. gyirong Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. heishui Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. jinchuan Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. khaptad Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. koshi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. lhatog Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. mechi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. miandam Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. miero Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. mude Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. muli Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. naran Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. ninglang Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. nyalam Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. phaplu Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. putou Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. rara Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. sangri Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. shigatse Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. tengchong Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. xiahe Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. yejiei Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. yele Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. zayu Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. zhigangi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀). The DNA barcodes of the thirty-five new species are provided.

A new Andean genus, Lafontaineana, with descriptions of four new species and two new Neotropical species of Panthea (Noctuidae, Pantheinae)
Lafontaineana Martinez, gen. nov. is proposed as a new Neotropical genus of Pantheinae, forming a sister group to Gaujonia Dognin, 1891 based on a phylogenetic analysis. In addition, one new combination and four new species are proposed: Lafontaineana marmorifera (Walker, 1865), comb. nov. (Colombia), Lafontaineana alexandrae Martinez, sp. nov. (Ecuador), Lafontaineana imama Martinez, sp. nov. (Colombia), Lafontaineana puma Martinez, sp. nov. (Ecuador), and Lafontaineana thuta Martinez, sp. nov. (Ecuador). Two new Neotropical species of Panthea are described, Panthea hondurensis Martinez, sp. nov. and Panthea taina Martinez, sp. nov.
["Andes Mountains"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

The genus Syntozyga Lower (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) in China, with descriptions of two new species
Species of the genus Syntozyga Lower, 1901 (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae, Olethreutinae) from China are studied. Syntozyga apicispinata sp. nov. and S. similispirographa sp. nov. are described, S. pedias (Meyrick, 1920) is recorded for the first time from China, and S. spirographa (Diakonoff, 1968) is newly recorded from the Chinese mainland. Adults and genitalia are illustrated, and a distribution map of the Chinese species is given. Keys to identify the Chinese species of Syntozyga are provided. Species of the genus are well clustered in a neighbor-joining tree based on the sequence data of the COI gene. COI sequences corresponding to the new species and S. spirographa (Diakonoff, 1968) are submitted to BOLD.
["Barcodes"]

A new species, a new combination, and a new record of Crossotarsus Chapuis, 1865 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Platypodinae) from China
This study describes a new species, Crossotarsus beaveri Lai & Wang, sp. nov., designates a new combination, C. brevis (Browne, 1975, comb. nov. from Platypus Herbst, 1793), and notes a new record, C. emorsus Beeson, 1937, from China. Genetic data from four genes indicate that the new species and C. brevis form a clade clustered with other Crossotarsus species. Molecular phylogeny and morphological characters support their taxonomic placement.
["Ambrosia beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

First record of the genus Arria (Mantodea, Haaniidae, Arriini) from Thailand, with the description of a new species of moss-dwelling praying mantis
Arria muscoamicta Unnahachote & Shcherbakov, sp. nov. is described based on a male from central Thailand. This is the first record of Arria Stål, 1877 from the country. The new species is closely allied to A. leigongshanensis (Ge & Shen, 2008) from China, differing by the absence of prozonal tubercles, the elongated pronotum, nine tibial anteroventral spines, and the truncated hindwings. The new species is a moss-camouflaging mantis living at high altitude. The taxonomic problems of the genus are briefly discussed.
["Camouflage"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Integrative taxonomy uncovers a new stygobiotic Caridina species (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae) from Guizhou Province, China
Collecting much-needed information on the taxonomy, distribution, and ecology of cave-dwelling shrimp is vital for addressing the urgent challenges in conservation biodiversity in fragile cave ecosystems. Caridina incolor sp. nov., a new atyid shrimp from an underground stream of Yaoshui Cave, Daqikong scenic area, Libo County, Guizhou Province, southwestern China is described based on morphology and DNA analysis (mitochondrial COI). Caridina incolor sp. nov. differs from epigean congeners by its smaller eyes which range from reduced to completely blind; colorless body and appendages; long stylocerite and sixth abdominal segment; and relatively large eggs. In comparison to other cave species, Caridina incolor sp. nov. presents a long rostrum and stylocerite; slender sixth abdominal segment; and unique shape of the appendix masculina. Data on the habitat, ecology, and levels of threat are provided and suggest that it should be categorized as Critically Endangered (CR) under the current IUCN criteria.
["Caridina"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Integrative descriptions of two new species of Dugesia from Hainan Island, China (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae)
Two new species of the genus Dugesia (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae) from Hainan Island of China are described on the basis of morphological, karyological and molecular data. Dugesia semiglobosa Chen & Dong, sp. nov. is mainly characterized by a hemispherical, asymmetrical penis papilla with ventrally displaced ejaculatory duct opening terminally at tip of penis papilla; vasa deferentia separately opening into mid-dorsal portion of intrabulbar seminal vesicle; two diaphragms in the ejaculatory duct; copulatory bursa formed by expansion of bursal canal, lined with complex stratified epithelium, which projects through opening in bursa towards intestine, without having open communication with the gut; mixoploid chromosome complement diploid (2n = 16) and triploid (3n = 24), with metacentric chromosomes. Dugesia majuscula Chen & Dong, sp. nov. is mainly characterized by oviducts opening asymmetrically into female reproductive system; hyperplasic ovaries; expanded posterior section of bursal canal; vasa deferentia separately opening into mid-dorsal portion of seminal vesicle; asymmetrical penis papilla due to ventral course of ejaculatory duct, which has subterminal and dorsal opening at tip papilla; mixoploid chromosome complement diploid (2n = 16) and triploid (3n = 24); chromosomes metacentric. Apart from their anatomy, separate species status of the two new species is supported also by their genetic distances and by their positions in the phylogenetic tree. The sexualization process may have been induced by the lower temperatures, in comparison with their natural habitat, under which the worms were cultured in the laboratory.
["Histology"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation"]

Taxonomic revision of the New World members of the trapdoor spider genus Ummidia Thorell (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Halonoproctidae)
This study documents a comprehensive taxonomic treatment of the New World Ummidia species. At the onset of this work the genus comprised 27 species and one subspecies with a cosmopolitan distribution that includes North America, South America, Asia, northern Africa, and Europe; of these species the majority of the nominal diversity can be attributed to the New World where 20 species have been previously described. Ummidia oaxacana (Chamberlin, 1925) is considered a nomen dubium; U. tuobita (Chamberlin, 1917) and U. absoluta (Gertsch and Mulaik, 1940) are both considered junior synonyms of U. audouini (Lucas, 1835); the subspecies U. carabivora emarginata (Atkinson, 1886) is considered a junior synonym of U. carabivora (Atkinson, 1886); U. pygmaea (Chamberlin and Ivie, 1945) is considered a junior synonym of U. beatula (Gertsch and Mulaik, 1940); U. celsa (Gertsch and Mulaik, 1940) is considered a junior synonym of U. funerea (Gertsch, 1936); Hebestatis lanthanus (Valerio, 1987) is considered a junior synonym of U. rugosa (Karsch, 1880). Thirty-three new species are described: U. neilgaimani, U. gingoteague, U. rongodwini, U. okefenokee, U. richmond, U. macarthuri, U. colemanae, U. rosillos, U. mercedesburnsae, U. paulacushingae, U. waunekaae, U. gertschi, U. timcotai, U. gabrieli, U. pesiou, U. rodeo, U. huascazaloya, U. anaya, U. cuicatec, U. brandicarlileae, U. riverai, U. frankellerae, U. hondurena, U. yojoa, U. matagalpa, U. carlosviquezi, U. varablanca, U. quepoa, U. cerrohoya, U. quijichacaca, U. tibacuy, U. neblina, U. tunapuna.

A contribution towards checklist of fungus gnats (Diptera, Diadocidiidae, Ditomyiidae, Bolitophilidae, Keroplatidae, Mycetophilidae) in Georgia, Transcaucasia
The fungus gnats of Georgia are studied based on 2682 specimens collected from 57 localities during 2011–2019. Altogether, 245 species are recorded including four species of Bolitophilidae, three species of Diadocidiidae, two species of Ditomyiidae, 34 species of Keroplatidae and 202 species of Mycetophilidae. 230 and 188 species are recorded from Georgia and the whole of Transcaucasia for the first time, respectively. Three new species – Sciophila georgei sp. nov., Leia katae sp. nov. and Anatella metae sp. nov. – are described including detailed illustrations of the male terminalia. Photographs are provided for an additional 38 species to highlight a variability of their general facies. Combined with earlier published data, the number of fungus gnat species in Georgia is set at 246. The estimated diversity of fungus gnats in Georgia is calculated using non-parametric methods and discussed with respect to other Western Palaearctic regions.
["Fungus gnats"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Diversity of intertidal, epibiotic, and fouling barnacles (Cirripedia, Thoracica) from Gujarat, northwest India
The present work studied the diversity of intertidal, epibiotic, and fouling barnacles in the state of Gujarat, northwest India. In total, eleven species belonging to eight genera and five families were recorded in the present study. The Arabian intertidal species Tetraclita ehsani Shahdadi, Chan & Sari, 2011 and Chthamalus barnesi Achituv & Safriel, 1980 are common in the high- and mid-intertidal rocky shores of Gujarat suggesting that the Gujarat barnacle assemblages are similar to the assemblages in the Gulf of Oman Ecoregion. The biogeographical boundary between the Gulf of Oman and Western Indian ecoregions for barnacles should probably extend southward towards the waters adjacent to Mumbai, where Indo-Pacific species of intertidal barnacles dominate. This study provides the first reports of the common widely distributed balanomorph barnacles Striatobalanus tenuis (Hoek, 1883), Tetraclitella karandei Ross, 1971, Amphibalanus reticulatus (Utinomi, 1967), and lepadid barnacle Lepas anatifera Linnaeus, 1758 in Gujarat, as well as of the chthamalid barnacle Chthamalus barnesi in India.
["Arabian Sea"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Triplophysa wulongensis, a new species of cave-dwelling loach (Teleostei, Nemacheilidae) from Chongqing, Southwest China
We describe a new species of cave-dwelling loach, Triplophysa wulongensis sp. nov., based on specimens collected in a subterranean pool in a cave in Wulong County, Chongqing, Southwest China. The pool is connected to the Wujiang River drainage. Triplophysa wulongensis differs from its congeners by the following combination of characters: eyes present, caudal fin with 18 branched rays; posterior chamber of the air bladder degenerate; stomach U-shaped; intestine without bends or loops immediately posterior to stomach; body smooth and scaleless, and lateral line complete. The mitochondrial cytochrome b sequence differs from those of other published sequences of species of Triplophysa by 14.9–24.9% in K2P distance. Phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome b gene sequences recovered T. wulongensis as sister taxon to all other cave-dwelling species of Triplophysa.

Seven new species of the Exocelina ekari group from New Guinea central and coastal mountains (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Seven new species of the genus Exocelina Broun, 1886 are described from three different mountain ranges of New Guinea: E. foja sp. nov., E. riberai sp. nov., E. apistefti sp. nov., and E. waaf sp. nov. from the Foja Mountains; E. hudsoni sp. nov. from the Cyclops Mountains; E. ekpliktiki sp. nov. and E. oraia sp. nov. from Wano Land. All of them are placed into the E. ekari group based on the structure of their male genitalia. The species are characteristic dytiscid elements of the fauna of northern cost and the western part of central orogen of New Guinea. Two taxonomic notes are presented: Exocelina athesphati is a correct name for the recently described Exocelina athesphatos Shaverdo et al., 2020; Exocelina bacchus Balke, nom. nov. is a replacement name for Exocelina bacchusi (Balke, 1998), formerly Copelatus (Papuadytes) bacchusi Balke, 1998, a junior homonym of Copelatus bacchusi Wewalka, 1981.

Revision of the Conwentzia Enderlein, 1905 (Neuroptera, Coniopterygidae) of China, combining morphological and molecular characters
The Chinese species of Conwentzia Enderlein are revised by integrating morphological characters and molecular data. Conwentzia yunguiana Liu & Yang, 1993 is proposed as a junior synonym of Conwentzia nietoi Monserrat, 1982, syn. nov. and Conwentzia orthotibia Yang, 1974 is proposed as a junior synonym of Conwentzia pineticola Enderlein, 1905, syn. nov. Moreover, a key to the adult males of the Conwentzia from China and DNA barcodes are provided.

Review of the New World Notomicrus Sharp (Coleoptera, Noteridae) I: Circumscription of species groups and review of the josiahi group with description of a new species from Brazil
The New World species of the minute aquatic beetle genus Notomicrus Sharp compose a much greater diversity than their Old World congeners, with 14 of the 17 known Notomicrus species occurring in the Neotropics. A recent phylogenetic study recovered four primary New World species groups and found that there are a number of undescribed species across all of these main lineages. Here, we provide a taxonomic key to these New World species groups, including two described species that we currently do not place in any group (“incertae sedis” species), complete with images and illustrations of diagnostic characters and taxonomic notes including a list of known species in each group. This work provides a scaffold for further planned taxonomic revisions within the genus. In addition, we review the first of the four New World groups, the josiahi species group and describe one new taxon, N. interstinctus sp. nov. from northern Brazil. Provided are descriptions, habitus images and illustrations of diagnostic characters.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Revision of the southern Andean genus Sadocus Sørensen, 1886 (Opiliones, Gonyleptidae, Pachylinae)
Species of the genus Sadocus Sørensen, 1886 are conspicuous gonyleptids that occur in Chile and Argentina. Here, the genus is revised for the first time and the cladistic analysis based on morphological characters does not corroborate its monophyly unless a phylogenetically unrelated species is excluded (explained further on). A new classification is proposed for the seven species left in the genus and considered valid, of the 13 nominal species previously recognized. Two out of the seven valid species are considered as species inquirendae: Sadocus allermayeri (Mello-Leitão, 1945) [= Carampangue allermayeri Mello-Leitão, 1945] and Sadocus nigronotatus (Mello-Leitão, 1943) [= Carampangue nigronotatum Mello-Leitão, 1943]. The following synonymies are proposed: Sadocus bicornis (Gervais, 1849) [original combination = Gonyleptes bicornis Gervais, 1849] is a junior synonym of Sadocus asperatus (Gervais, 1847) [= Gonyleptes asperatus Gervais, 1847]; Sadocus conspicillatus Roewer, 1913, Sadocus exceptionalis (Mello-Leitão, 1946) [= Araucanoleptes exceptionalis Mello-Leitão, 1946] and Sadocus guttatus Sørensen, 1902 are junior synonyms of the valid name Sadocus polyacanthus (Gervais, 1847) [= Gonyleptes polyacanthus Gervais, 1847]; and Sadocus calcar (Roewer, 1913) [= Lycomedes calcar Roewer, 1913] is a junior synonym of the valid name Gonyleptes horridus Kirby, 1819. Sadocus brasiliensis Soares & Soares, 1949 is not congeneric with Argentinean/Chilean species of the genus according to the cladistic analysis and is here synonymized with Discocyrtus catharinensis (Mello-Leitão, 1923 [= Sadocus catharinensis Mello-Leitão, 1923]).
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

A new species of the genus Arria Stål, 1877 (Mantodea, Haaniidae) from China with notes on the tribe Arriini Giglio-Tos, 1919
A new species of the praying mantis genus Arria Stål, Arria pura sp. nov. from southwest China is described and illustrated. An overview, comparison, and distribution data of this tribe are given. A new synonym is created: Sinomiopteryx yunnanensis Xu, 2007 is a junior synonym of Arria pallida (Zhang, 1987). One new combination Arria brevifrons (Wang, 1991) comb. nov. (from Sinomiopteryx Tinkham), is proposed.
["Arriini"]

The genus Dasyproctus (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Crabronidae) in China, with description of two new species
Two new species of the genus Dasyproctus Lepeletier de Saint Fargeau & Brullé (Crabronidae, Crabroninae, Crabronini) from China are described and illustrated, namely D. amplicarinalis Yue & Ma, sp. nov. from Yunnan, and D. hainanensis Yue & Li, sp. nov. from Hainan. In addition, D. cevirus Leclercq and D. vaporus Leclercq are recorded for the first time from China. A key to the species of Dasyproctus from China is provided.
["Crabroninae"]

Multiple lines of evidence reveal a new species of Krait (Squamata, Elapidae, Bungarus) from Southwestern China and Northern Myanmar
Kraits of the genus Bungarus Daudin 1803 are widely known venomous snakes distributed from Iran to China and Indonesia. Here, we use a combination of mitochondrial DNA sequence data and morphological data to describe a new species from Yingjiang County, Yunnan Province, China: Bungarus suzhenae sp. nov. Phylogenetically, this species forms a monophyletic lineage sister to the Bungarus candidus/multicinctus/wanghaotingi complex based on cyt b and ND4 genes but forms a sister species pair with the species B. magnimaculatus Wall & Evans, 1901 based on COI gene fragments. Morphologically, B. suzhenae sp. nov. is similar to the B. candidus/multicinctus/wanghaotingi complex but differs from these taxa by a combination of dental morphology, squamation, coloration pattern, as well as hemipenial morphology. A detailed description of the cranial osteology of the new species is given based on micro-CT tomography images. We revised the morphological characters of B. candidus/multicinctus/wanghaotingi complex and verified the validity of three species in this complex. The distribution of these species was revised; the records of B. candidus in China should be attributed to B. wanghaotingi. We also provide an updated key to species of Bungarus.
["Bungarus suzhenae sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Rabies epidemiology and control"]

Description of the first species of Glomeridesmida from Thailand (Diplopoda, Glomeridesmida, Glomeridesmidae)
With three genera and 35 previously known species from India, SE Asia, Central and South America, Glomeridesmida are one of the least diverse Diplopoda groups. Here we describe Glomeridesmus siamensis sp. nov., the first species of the order Glomeridesmida from Thailand. The geographically nearest confamiliar species have been described from southern India, Sumatra and Java. The species is described combining photographs, light- and scanning electron microscopy of mature and younger males, females and juveniles. Several characters are illustrated for the first time for an Asian representative of the family Glomeridesmidae. In addition to the type locality of G. siamensis sp. nov. from Krabi province, locality data of unidentified Glomeridesmus from Thailand are also given. These data are providing further evidence that the Glomeridesmida are not uncommon, but overlooked as they are small and difficult to collect. The unusual telopods and other morphological characters of G. siamensis sp. nov. differ considerably from the few Glomeridesmus males described from Central and South America as well as from India, but the unclear status of two generic names available for species from Indonesia prevents us from adding another generic name to this small and understudied order.

The Brachiacantha Dejean, 1837 (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) of Central America
A revision of the Central American species of the genus Brachiacantha was undertaken to update the knowledge of the Central American species of the genus. Material of several collections was reviewed, using original descriptions and keys, and comparing with the type material. Twenty-five species of the genus Brachiacantha were found in Central American material, including nine new species: B. nubes Nestor-Arriola, Toledo-Hernández and Solís, sp. nov., B. dentata Nestor-Arriola, Toledo-Hernández and Solís, sp. nov., B. isthmena Nestor-Arriola, Toledo-Hernández and Solís, sp. nov., B. aurantiapleura Nestor-Arriola, Solís and Toledo-Hernández, sp. nov., B. invertita Nestor-Arriola, Toledo-Hernández and Solís, sp. nov., B. papiliona Nestor-Arriola, Toledo-Hernández and Solís, sp. nov., B. tica Nestor-Arriola, Toledo-Hernández and Solís, sp. nov., B. hexaspina González, Větrovec and Nestor-Arriola, sp. nov., and B. mimica Nestor-Arriola and Toledo-Hernández, sp. nov. Nomenclatural changes include Brachiacantha gorhami (Weise), comb. nov., B. guatemalensis (Gorham), comb. nov., and Brachiacantha duodecimguttata Leng, syn. nov. for B. lepida Mulsant. The male genitalia of the species B. fenestrata Gorhan, B. octostigma Mulsant, B. aperta Weise, and B. cachensis Gorhan are described and illustrated for the first time. New records include B. indubitabilis Crotch and B. bipartita Mulsant (Costa Rica and Guatemala), B. gorhami (Weise) (El Salvador), and B. cachensis Gorham (Panamá). A key to the species is included.
["Cusps"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Four new species of the planthopper genus Metanigrus Tsaur, Yang & Wilson from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Meenoplidae)
Four new species of the genus Metanigrus Tsaur, Yang & Wilson, 1986, M. chromus Lv & Chen, sp. nov., M. guttatus Lv & Chen, sp. nov., M. gremius Lv & Chen, sp. nov., and M. spinatus Lv, Chen & Bourgoin, sp. nov. from China (Hubei, Guizhou and Yunnan), are described and illustrated, giving the genus six species in total. A key to all known species of Metanigrus is provided, as well as a map of their geographic distributions.
["Fulgoroidea"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Odorrana (Anura, Ranidae) from Hunan Province, China
A new species, Odorrana sangzhiensis sp. nov., is described, based on five specimens from Sangzhi County, Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on mitochondrial 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA gene sequences, strongly support the new species as a monophyletic group nested into the O. schmackeri species complex. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) body size medium (SVL: 42.1–45.1 mm in males, 83.3–92.7 mm in females); (2) dorsolateral folds absent; (3) tympanum diameter 1.53 times as long as the width of the disc of finger III in females; 2.3 times in males; (4) dorsal skin green with dense granules and sparse irregular brown spots; males with several large warts on dorsum; (5) two metacarpal tubercles; (6) relative finger lengths: I ≤ II < IV < III; (7) tibiotarsal articulation beyond the tip of the snout; (8) ventral surface smooth in females; throat and chest having pale spinules in adult males; (9) dorsal limbs green or yellow green with brown transverse bands; and (10) paired external vocal sacs located at corners of the throat, finger I with light yellow nuptial pad in males. This discovery increases the number of Odorrana species to 59 and those known from China to 37.

Review of the North American fauna of Drymeia Meigen (Diptera, Muscidae) and evaluation of DNA barcodes for species-level identification in the genus
The North American fauna of Drymeia Meigen was studied. Four new species are described (Drymeia hucketti sp. nov., Drymeia ponti sp. nov., Drymeia vockerothi sp. nov., Drymeia woodorum sp. nov.), and three new synonymies are proposed: Drymeia amnicola (Huckett, 1966) (= Drymeia rivalis (Huckett, 1966), syn. nov.); Drymeia glacialis (Rondani, 1866) (= Drymeia alpicola (Rondani, 1871), syn. nov.); and Drymeia spinitarsis (Aldrich, 1918) (= Drymeia longiseta Sorokina & Pont, 2015, syn. nov.). An annotated checklist, DNA barcodes (when available), and keys for each sex of the 24 named species of North American Drymeia are provided. The utility of DNA barcodes for the identification of Drymeia species across a wide geographical range was explored using sequences from five countries. A match between morphology and DNA barcodes was found for 71% (22/31) of species studied (including three unnamed taxa). The remaining nine species clustered into two groups of taxa with very little interspecific variation within clusters (groups of two and seven species). Caution is advised against using DNA barcoding as the only determination tool for Drymeia material without prior knowledge of its limitations for certain species groups.
["Azeliinae"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

A new species of Leptopelis (Anura, Arthroleptidae) from the south-eastern slope of the Ethiopian Highlands, with notes on the Leptopelis gramineus species complex and the revalidation of a previously synonymised species
A new ground-dwelling species of treefrog in the genus Leptopelis is described from the Harenna Forest in south-eastern Ethiopia. The description is based on morphology and acoustics and is supported by molecular data. The new species has a small body size, and the digital discs on fingers and toes are significantly more conspicuous than in other semi-fossorial members of the L. gramineus complex. It occupies forest habitats at lower altitudes and is separated ecologically and geographically from high-altitude species of the complex. One of them, a parapatric cryptic species from Bale and Arsi Mountains, is resurrected from synonymy of L. gramineus and given a new name, L. montanus. Genetic barcoding of specimens from both populations showed that they belong to two distinct lineages that had been revealed by recent phylogenetic research. To confirm the geographic separation of the studied populations, the collection area of L. gramineus types was verified through analysis of the diary and the final report of the 2nd expedition of V. Bottego, and through matching of the route described in it with modern maps. The type locality of L. gramineus sensu stricto is restricted to Gamo Gofa, Ethiopia. Following the results of recent phylogenetic studies, the range of L. gramineus is limited to west of the Great Rift Valley. An identification key to the named Ethiopian species of the genus is provided.
["Bale Mountains"]

Two new species of the genus Deltomerodes Deuve, 1992 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Patrobini) from Xizang, China
Two new species of the carabid genus Deltomerodes are described from Xizang (China): D. ovicollis sp. nov. (type locality: Doxong La, Mêdog) and D. conaensis sp. nov. (type locality: Rama La, Cona). The new species are amply described, illustrated, and their distributions are mapped. An updated key to all eight known Chinese Deltomerodes species is provided.
["Alpine insect"]

A review of Copelatus diving beetles from the Solomon Islands, reporting the discovery of six new species (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
The first account of the genus Copelatus Erichson, 1832 in the Solomon Islands is provided, reporting 10 species for the Archipelago. Six of these are new to science: C. baranensis sp. nov., C. laevipennis sp. nov., C. urceolus sp. nov., and C. variistriatus sp. nov. from Guadalcanal and C. bougainvillensis sp. nov., and C. kietensis sp. nov. from Bougainville. Copelatus tulagicus Guignot, 1942, described from Tulaghi Island of the Solomons, is recorded from Guadalcanal and Santa Isabel for the first time. The widely distributed Australasian C. portior Guignot, 1956 is reported from the Solomon Islands (Guadalcanal and Ontong Java Atoll) for the first time. Two species from Guadalcanal remain unidentified since they are so far known only from a limited number of females.
["Australian Region"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

DNA barcoding and morphology reveal a new cryptic species of Nagiella (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Spilomelinae) from Japan
Nagiella tristalis Matsui & Naka, sp. nov. is described from Japan, based on DNA barcoding and morphological evidence. The two species previously known from Japan, N. quadrimaculalis and N. inferior, are diagnosed. Photographs of adults, including male and female genitalia of the three species, are provided.

A new species and first record of the genus Procerobaetis Kaltenbach & Gattolliat, 2020 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Thailand
The genus Procerobaetis Kaltenbach & Gattolliat, 2020 is reported for the first time from Thailand, and Procerobaetis totuspinosus sp. nov. is described as a new species based on larvae. It can be easily distinguished from other known Procerobaetis species by the presence of triangular spines at the posterior margin of tergites VI–IX. COI sequences were obtained from all known species. The genetic distances (Kimura 2-parameter) between the new species and the other species are between 20% and 23%. The morphological characters of the new species and its closely related species are discussed; larval key to all species of the genus Procerobaetis is also provided.
["Mayfly"]

Cercopidae spittle-bugs (Hemiptera, Cicadomorpha) of Madagascar: a new species of Bourgoinrana and revision of the Locris species
The Locris species and subspecies from Madagascar are revised and a new combination is proposed: Locris johannae var. nigrolimbata Lallemand, 1910 to L. nigrolimbata comb. nov. Illustrations and description of male terminalia are given for the first time for the three Locris species and an identification key is provided. A new species of the Malagasy endemic genus Bourgoinrana Soulier-Perkins, 2012 is described: B. beondrokaensis Le Cesne & Soulier-Perkins sp. nov. An updated identification key to the species of Bourgoinrana is provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Morphological and molecular evidence support the taxonomic separation of the medically important Neotropical spiders Phoneutria depilata (Strand, 1909) and P. boliviensis (F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1897) (Araneae, Ctenidae)
The species of the genus Phoneutria (Ctenidae), also called banana spiders, are considered amongst the most venomous spiders in the world. In this study we revalidate P. depilata (Strand, 1909), which had been synonymized with P. boliviensisis (F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1897), using morphological and nucleotide sequence data (COI and ITS-2) together with species delimitation methods. We synonymized Ctenus peregrinoides, Strand, 1910 and Phoneutria colombiana Schmidt, 1956 with P. depilata. Furthermore, we designated Ctenus signativenter Strand, 1910 as a nomen dubium because the exact identity of this species cannot be ascertained with immature specimens, but we note that the type locality suggests that the C. signativenter syntypes belong to P. depilata. We also provide species distribution models for both species of Phoneutria and test hypotheses of niche conservatism under an allopatric speciation model. Our phylogenetic analyses support the monophyly of the genus Phoneutria and recover P. boliviensis and P. depilata as sister species, although with low nodal support. In addition, the tree-based species delimitation methods also supported the separate identities of these two species. Phoneutria boliviensis and P. depilata present allopatric distributions separated by the Andean mountain system. Species distribution models indicate lowland tropical rain forest ecosystems as the most suitable habitat for these two Phoneutria species. In addition, we demonstrate the value of citizen science platforms like iNaturalist in improving species distribution knowledge based on occurrence records. Phoneutria depilata and P. boliviensis present niche conservatism following the expected neutral model of allopatric speciation. The compiled occurrence records and distribution maps for these two species, together with the morphological diagnosis of both species, will help to identify risk areas of accidental bites and assist health professionals to determine the identity of the species involved in bites, especially for P. depilata.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Four new species of the genus Cratospila Foerster (Hymenopter, Braconidae, Alysiinae) from South Korea
The species of the genus Cratospila Foerster, 1863 (Braconidae, Alysiinae) from South Korea are revised, and the genus is recorded for the first time from South Korea. All four species are new to science, and Cratospila albifera sp. nov., C. ejuncida sp. nov., C. luteocephala sp. nov., and C. syntoma sp. nov. are described and illustrated herein. In addition, COI has been sequenced of three species. A key to the Korean species is provided.

On the northernmost Orchestina species in China, with a first description of the female of O. zhiwui (Araneae, Oonopidae)
Orchestina zhiwui Liu, Xu & Henrard, 2019, a species previously known only from males collected in Jiangxi Province, was found in Liaoning, ca 2200 km northeast of the type locality, including specimens of both sexes. The previously unknown female of this species is described, and the male is redescribed. A key to species of the genus Orchestina from China is provided.
["Fenghuang Mountain"]

Description of a new species of Megischus Brullé (Hymenoptera, Stephanidae), with a key to the species from China
A new species of the genus Megischus Brullé, 1846, Megischus kuafu Ge & Tan, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Guizhou Province, China. The key to all four species from China is included. A distribution map of the Chinese species is added.

First record of the cimicomorphan family Plokiophilidae (Hemiptera, Heteroptera) from China, with description of a new species of Plokiophiloides
Plokiophiloides bannaensis sp. nov., is described from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, representing the first record of the family Plokiophilidae from China. The new species also represents the first record of the genus Plokiophiloides in the Oriental Region, a second zoogeographical region besides the Afrotropical Region. Photographs of the live individuals inhabiting a spider web within natural habitats, male and female habitus, wings of adult, male genitalic structures, female abdomen structures and scanning electron micrographs of forewing, head, thorax and legs are provided. A key to all known species of Plokiophiloides is presented, with a distribution map.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella Smith, 1925 (Anura, Megophryidae) from northwest Guizhou Province, China
A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella is described from Guizhou Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses support the new species as an independent lineage deeply nested in the Leptobrachella clade. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: body size medium (SVL 29.7–31.2 mm in five adult males); dorsal skin shagreened, some of the granules forming longitudinal short skin ridges; tympanum distinctly discernible, slightly concave; supra-axillary, femoral, pectoral and ventrolateral glands distinctly visible; absence of webbing and lateral fringes on fingers; toes with narrow lateral fringes but without webbing; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibia-tarsal articulation reaching the middle of eye when leg stretched forward. The discovery highlighted the underestimated species diversity in the Leptobrachella toads in southwestern China.
["Leptobrachella jinshaensis sp. nov."]

A new species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Yunnan, China
A new species of Cyrtodactylus is described on the basis of five specimens collected from the karst formations of Zhenkang County, Yunnan Province, China. Cyrtodactylus zhenkangensis sp. nov. is recognized by having a unique combination of morphological characters, the most diagnostic being: 12–15 enlarged femoral scales on each thigh; 2–5 femoral pores on each thigh in males, 0–3 pitted scales on each thigh in females; eight or nine precloacal pores in a continuous row or separated by one poreless scale in males, 7–9 pitted scales in females; subcaudals enlarged, arranged alternately as single and double on anterior and mostly single at middle and posterior; dorsal surface of head with obvious reticulations. Phylogenetic analyses show that the new species is a member of the C. wayakonei species group and a sister taxon to a clade consisting of C. wayakonei and C. martini based on Maximum Likelihood analyses and Bayesian Inference and differs from its congeners by at least 12.0% genetic divergence in a fragment of the COI gene.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Two new species of Paraphytis (Hymenoptera, Aphelinidae) from Southwest China
Two new species of Paraphytis Compere, P. bannaensis sp. nov. and P. pseudovittatus sp. nov., are described from the Xishuangbanna Rainforest (Southwest China). A key to species from China based on females is provided.
["Aphelininae"]

A new species of the genus Euxaldar Fennah, 1978 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae) from China and revision on the molecular phylogeny of the family
A new species Euxaldar daweishanensis Yang, Chang & Chen, sp. nov. is described and illustrated from southwestern China. The female genitalia of the genus Euxaldar is described and presented for the first time. A checklist and key to the known species of the genus are provided. A revised molecular phylogenetic analysis of the family Issidae based on combined partial sequences of 18S, 28S, COI, and Cytb is provided using both Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Annelids of the eastern Australian abyss collected by the 2017 RV ‘Investigator’ voyage
In Australia, the deep-water (bathyal and abyssal) benthic invertebrate fauna is poorly known in comparison with that of shallow (subtidal and shelf) habitats. Benthic fauna from the deep eastern Australian margin was sampled systematically for the first time during 2017 RV ‘Investigator’ voyage ‘Sampling the Abyss’. Box core, Brenke sledge, and beam trawl samples were collected at one-degree intervals from Tasmania, 42°S, to southern Queensland, 24°S, from 900 to 4800 m depth. Annelids collected were identified by taxonomic experts on individual families around the world. A complete list of all identified species is presented, accompanied with brief morphological diagnoses, taxonomic remarks, and colour images. A total of more than 6000 annelid specimens consisting of 50 families (47 Polychaeta, one Echiura, two Sipuncula) and 214 species were recovered. Twenty-seven species were given valid names, 45 were assigned the qualifier cf., 87 the qualifier sp., and 55 species were considered new to science. Geographical ranges of 16 morphospecies extended along the eastern Australian margin to the Great Australian Bight, South Australia; however, these ranges need to be confirmed with genetic data. This work providing critical baseline biodiversity data on an important group of benthic invertebrates from a virtually unknown region of the world’s ocean will act as a springboard for future taxonomic and biogeographic studies in the area.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

The genus Eriastichus La Salle (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae, Tetrastichinae) in the Neotropical region, introducing 48 new species
Our knowledge of the recently described genus Eriastichus La Salle is greatly enhanced with the addition of 48 new species: E. acribis sp. nov., E. aphritis sp. nov., E. cluridis sp. nov., E. coelotis sp. nov., E. colenis sp. nov., E. copalensis sp. nov., E. daptilis sp. nov., E. decoris sp. nov., E. denotatis sp. nov., E. derilis sp. nov., E. diadrys sp. nov., E. dotaensis sp. nov., E. drupis sp. nov., E. ebulis sp. nov., E. egrestis sp. nov., E. eleagnis sp. nov., E. ellipsis sp. nov., E. eminis sp. nov., E. facilis sp. nov., E. fenestris sp. nov., E. follis sp. nov., E. galeatis sp. nov., E. geratis sp. nov., E. glanis sp. nov., E. hilaris sp. nov., E. johnlasallei sp. nov., E. johnnoyesi sp. nov., E. maniatis sp. nov., E. nebulis sp. nov., E. neonis sp. nov., E. nexilis sp. nov., E. novalis sp. nov., E. nugalis sp. nov., E. oasis sp. nov., E. ononis sp. nov., E. orestis sp. nov., E. pallidops sp. nov., E. parabilis sp. nov., E. renodis sp. nov., E. rivalis sp. nov., E. sannionis sp. nov., E. scalaris sp. nov., E. sodalis sp. nov., E. taraxis sp. nov., E. tendrilis sp. nov., E. tonioazofeifai sp. nov., E. velaminis sp. nov., and E. vestis sp. nov. All species are known only from males, and all material is from Costa Rica. Females show little morphological variation and are not possible to separate to species or link to conspecific males at present. Apart from the diagnostic features for the genus presented in the original description, two new autapomorphies are introduced here: an inflated pleural membrane between Gt1-4 and Gs1-4, and tufts of pale and flattened setae laterally on Gt4-6. Both features are found on the gaster and are present in both sexes. The distribution of the genus is firmly established as predominantly neotropical. The biology remains unknown.
["Autapomorphies"]

Four new West Palaearctic species and new distributional records of Hybotidae (Diptera)
Megagrapha starki Barták & Grootaert, sp. nov. (Poland, Russia, Slovakia), Oedalea portugalica Barták & Grootaert, sp. nov. (Portugal), Hybos conicus Grootaert & Barták, sp. nov. (Greece, Turkey), and Platypalpus obscuroides Barták & Grootaert, sp. nov. (Slovakia) are described and illustrated. Diagnostic characters are discussed. The female of Syndyas merzi Shamshev & Grootaert, 2012 is described for the first time. New distributional records are presented: Megagrapha europaea Papp & Földvári, 2001 is first reported from Slovakia and Syndyas merzi Shamshev & Grootaert, 2012 is first reported from Turkey.
["Descriptions"]

Review of the Neotropical water scavenger beetle genus Tobochares Short & García, 2007 (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Acidocerinae): new lineages, new species, and new records
The water scavenger beetle genus Tobochares Short & García, 2007 currently contains ten species, including one known but formally undescribed taxon. Although Tobochares was revised in 2017, ongoing fieldwork as well as an expanded concept of the genus has led to the recognition of numerous additional species. Here a combination of morphological and molecular data is presented to review this newly found Tobochares diversity. Fifteen new species are described from South America, bringing the total number of known species to 25: Tobochares akoerio sp. nov. (Suriname), T. arawak sp. nov. (Guyana), T. anthonyae sp. nov. (Venezuela: Bolívar), T. atures sp. nov., (Venezuela: Amazonas), T. benettii sp. nov. (Brazil: Amazonas), T. canaima sp. nov. (Venezuela: Bolívar), T. communis sp. nov. (Brazil: Amapá and Roraima, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela: Bolívar), T. fusus sp. nov. (Brazil: Amapá, French Guiana), T. goias sp. nov. (Brazil: Goiás), T. kappel sp. nov. (Suriname), T. kolokoe sp. nov. (Suriname), T. luteomargo sp. nov. (Venezuela: Bolívar), T. microps sp. nov. (Suriname), T. pemon sp. nov. (Venezuela: Bolívar), and T. romanoae sp. nov. (Brazil: Roraima). Both morphological and molecular analyses support four clades within the genus, which are here diagnosed and described as species groups. New distributional records are provided for T. kusad Kohlenberg & Short, 2017 and T. sipaliwini Short & Kadosoe, 2011, both of which are recorded from Brazil for the first time. Previously restricted to the Guiana Shield region of South America, the distributional range of the genus is now broadly expanded to include localities as far south as the central Brazilian state of Goiás. Consistent with the biology of the previously described species, almost all the new species described here are associated with seepage and wet rock habitats. Remarkably, one species, T. fusus sp. nov., was collected in both seepage habitats as well as in the rotting fruits of Clusia Linnaeus (Clusiaceae), making it one of the few known acidocerines with terrestrial habits outside of the genus Quadriops Hansen, 1999. High-resolution images of most species are included, as well as a key to species groups, species, and habitat photographs.

On four species of the genus Argiope Audouin, 1826 (Araneae, Araneidae) from China
Based on morphological and molecular evidence, Argiope macrochoera Thorell, 1891 from China is found to be the unknown female of A. cameloides Zhu & Song, 1994, the known male of A. perforata Schenkel, 1963 is mismatched and provisionally suggested to be the male of A. boesenbergi Levi, 1983, and the true male of A. perforata Schenkel, 1963 is described for the first time. Argiope abramovi Logunov & Jäger, 2015 is suggested to be a synonym of A. perforata Schenkel, 1963. Argiope chloreides Chrysanthus, 1961 and A. vietnamensis Ono, 2010 are newly recorded from China. The unknown male of A. vietnamensis Ono, 2010 is described for the first time.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

The deep-sea pennatulacean genus Porcupinella – with the description of a new species from Tasmania (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Chunellidae)
The recently described deep-sea pennatulacean genus Porcupinella was previously known only by the type species, Porcupinella profunda from the equatorial eastern Atlantic to the eastern North Atlantic Ocean. New data is provided on morphology, distribution, bathymetry, and related taxa. A second species is added here as well – a new species is described from the Tasman Sea in the southwestern Pacific. The new species, Porcupinella tasmanica, is distinguished from P. profunda by its distinctive hook-shaped growth form, laterally compressed dorsal keel, and differing regions that are occupied by siphonozooids. A key to the species of the deep-sea pennatulacean family Chunellidae is included based on comparative morphology.
["Deep-sea pennatulaceans"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A new species of the freshwater crab genus Potamonemus Cumberlidge & Clark, 1992 (Crustacea, Potamonautidae) endemic to the forested highlands of southwestern Cameroon, Central Africa
A new species of freshwater crab of the genus Potamonemus Cumberlidge & Clark, 1992 is described from Mount Manengouba Reserve and Bakossi National Park in the tropical rainforests of southwestern Cameroon, Central Africa. Potamonemus man sp. nov. is recognized by characters of the carapace and chelipeds. In addition, a phylogenetic analysis based on partial sequences of three mitochondrial DNA genes (COI, 12S rRNA, and 16S rRNA) that included representatives of all other freshwater crab genera found in Cameroon recovered each of the new species as a distinct lineage. A diagnosis and illustrations of the new species are provided, and it is compared to the other species of Potamonemus. Brief notes are provided on the ecology of the new species and the two other species of Potamonemus. An identification key to the species of Potamonemus is provided. The conservation status of the genus is discussed.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Three new species of the sea fan genus Leptogorgia (Octocorallia, Gorgoniidae) from the Gulf of California, Mexico
Three new sea fan species of Leptogorgia were discovered during multiple scuba diving expeditions along the Gulf of California coast and islands. Leptogorgia iridis sp. nov. is distributed in the southern region of the gulf (Mexican Province), inhabiting tropical rocky reefs of the Islas Marías Archipelago (Nayarit) and Bahía Banderas (Jalisco). This species has small colonies (< 7 cm height) with at least five clearly distinct chromotypes. Leptogorgia martirensis sp. nov. was found exclusively on the rocky reefs of San Pedro Mártir and San Esteban Islands located in the northern region of the Gulf of California (northern region of Cortez Province). Leptogorgia enrici sp. nov. is distributed from the south to the northern region of the Gulf of California (Cortez Province), inhabiting substrates of rocky reefs, sandy and pebbly sea floors. Comprehensive ecological diving expeditions to identify and classify octocorals in the Mexican Pacific (1995–2019) indicate that L. iridis sp. nov. and L. martirensis sp. nov. are likely to be micro-endemics and L. enrici sp. nov. is endemic to the Gulf of California, which defines their currently known biogeographic distribution ranges.
["Alcyonacea"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The first record of the genus Laemostenus from China, with descriptions of two new species from the Himalaya (Carabidae, Sphodrini, Sphodrina)
The genus Laemostenus is recorded from China for the first time, and two new species are described: L. (Pristonychus) zhentangensis sp. nov. (type locality: Dinggyê County, Xizang), and L. (P.) zhamensis sp. nov. (type locality: Nyalam County, Xizang). The relationships of these new species are briefly discussed.
["brunneus species group"]

Tiger beetles (Coleoptera, Cicindelidae) of Northern Mindanao region (Philippines): checklist, distributional maps, and habitats
The knowledge about tiger beetle fauna of the Northern Mindanao region (Philippines) is summarized based on literature data and new records. Thirty species classified in ten genera (Tricondyla, Neocollyris, Protocollyris, Therates, Prothyma, Heptodonta, Thopeutica, Lophyra, Calomera, and Cylindera) were documented from the area (56% of tiger beetle fauna of Mindanao and 21% of Philippine species). Twelve species were noted from Northern Mindanao region for the first time, including five taxa, Neocollyris speciosa, Calomera angulata, Cylindera minuta, Lophyra striolata tenuiscripta, and Thopeutica virginea, not recorded from Mindanao before. Distribution maps for all recorded species and the first photographs of habitats for some species in Mindanao and/or in the Philippines are provided. Eight species (27% of recorded fauna) were noted from riverine habitats while 18 tiger beetles (60%) were typical forest taxa; in the case of four species, their habitats in Northern Mindanao region are not known.
["Endemic species"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Re-description of the loach species Leptobotia citrauratea (Teleostei, Botiidae), with the description of L. brachycephala from southern Zhejiang Province, China
Leptobotia citrauratea (Nichols, 1925), a loach species, originally described from Dongting Lake, was recently rehabilitated, based on the examination of the holotype and non-topotypical specimens. Several field surveys conducted from 2016 to 2019 in Zhejiang, Jiangxi and Hunan Provinces, P.R. China, yielded many specimens of Leptobotia which were initially identified as L. citrauratea. Molecular and morphological analyses of these specimens demonstrated that two distinct species are involved. One was identified as L. citrauratea, represented by specimens from both the Poyang and Dongting Lake (type locality) systems in Jiangxi and Hunan Provinces, and the other species is described as L. brachycephala, represented by specimens from the Ou-Jiang and Qu-Jiang, two coastal rivers of Zhejiang Province, China. Leptobotia brachycephala resembles L. citrauratea and L. micra in having a row of orange dots or an orange stripe along the dorsal mid-line of the body, extending from the nape to the caudal-fin base – a unique character in Leptobotia. Leptobotia brachycephala differs from L. citrauratea and L. micra Bohlen & Šlechtová, 2017, in caudal-fin shape and pelvic-fin insertion and proportional measurements including caudal-fin length, head length, predorsal length and anal-fin length. Its species status was further corroborated by position in a molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on the mitochondrial cyt b gene and its minimum uncorrected p-distance (2.9%) from congeneric species.

Two new species of the genus Anillinus Casey (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Anillini) from the southern United States
Two new species of blind ground beetles are described from the southern United States. One species, Anillinus relictus sp. nov. (type locality: E of Oneonta, Blount County, Alabama), based on the structure of male genitalia, is similar to Texan Anillinus, in particular to the endogean A. sinuatus Jeannel. The second species, A. felicianus sp. nov. (type locality: 4 mi SW Jackson, West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana), is superficially similar to the endogean A. sinuaticollis Jeannel from Roane County, Tennessee, and represents the first record of the genus for the state of Louisiana. All species are illustrated with digital images of habitus, body parts, and male and female genitalia. Biogeographical and evolutionary implications of the new findings are discussed.
["Alabama"]

Revision and description of six species of Choeradoplana (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida), with an emendation to the genus
Living representatives of the Neotropical genus Choeradoplana Graff, 1896 (Geoplaninae, Tricladida, Platyhelminthes) are easily recognized by the typical shape of the head which is laterally expanded, rolled-up, and ventrally provided with two glandular cushions. In this study, the morphology and phylogeny (cytochrome C oxidase subunit I gene) of several species of land planarians are taxonomically investigated. Four of the six species studied are new to science, namely: Ch. eudoxiae Silva & Carbayo, sp. nov., Ch. claudioi Lago-Barcia & Carbayo, sp. nov., Ch. onae Lago-Barcia & Carbayo, sp. nov., and Ch. riutortae Lago-Barcia & Carbayo, sp. nov. The species Choeradoplana albonigra and Ch. eudoxiae deviate from the usual body shape pattern in that the head does not present lateral expansions nor glandular cushions, becoming indistinguishable from its sister genus Cephaloflexa. Pseudogeoplana tristriata (Schultze & Müller, 1857) is also redescribed from a newly collected specimen and was discovered to be a member of Choeradoplana. Graff (1899) also studied another specimen that was considered to be conspecific with P. tristriata; however, in this new it is concluded that it is not conspecific but rather a new species. The name Pseudogeoplana aevipandemiae Lago-Barcia & Carbayo, sp. nov. is suggested for Graff’s specimen.
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Genetics, Aging, and Longevity in Model Organisms"]

Taxonomic revision of grass frogs (Ptychadenidae, Ptychadena) endemic to the Ethiopian highlands
Frogs of the genus Ptychadena that inhabit the Ethiopian highlands serve as a model system to understand biogeography, diversification, and adaptations to high elevations. Despite recent studies focusing on the systematics of this group, the taxonomy of the Ptychadena neumanni species complex remains only partially resolved, owing largely to the morphological resemblance of its members. Here, the taxonomy of this historically problematic group of frogs is revised by integrating morphological and molecular analyses on both century-old type specimens and more recently collected material. Based on these multiple lines of evidence, the P. neumanni species complex is shown to be more speciose than previously thought and four new species are described. With the aim of clarifying and stabilizing the taxonomy of the group, six species are also re-described and morphological and acoustic identification keys are provided. This study also establishes species distribution maps and reveals important differences in range size between the members of the P. neumanni complex, calling for adapted conservation measures across the Ethiopian highlands.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Assessment of Megadenus holothuricola Rosén, 1910 (Eulimidae), an endoparasite of Holothuria mexicana Ludwig, 1875 (Holothuriidae) in the southern Gulf of Mexico and the description a new species
As part of a study on holothurians from the southern Gulf of Mexico, some Holothuria mexicana Ludwig, 1875 were obtained for gut analysis. In two of them, a couple of eulimids were located inside the main tube of the respiratory tree. They were identified as Megadenus holothuricola Rosén, 1910, described from the Bahamas Islands, based on five specimens attached to the respiratory tree of H. mexicana. The original description was brief with few details, the type material is lost, and the species has not been found again. In this contribution, this species is confirmed for Campeche Bay, Mexico. The adult shell is globular to conical, transparent, thin, and fragile. Megadenus smithi sp. nov. from Palmyra Atoll, Central Pacific is described based on adult specimens. It differs from its congeneric species in its more robust shell, the pseudopallium does not cover the shell, and its short and contracted proboscis forms a thick disc. Further research on these eulimid parasites is now complicated in the southern Gulf of Mexico because of the holothurian population collapse due to over-exploitation of the fishery.
["Campeche"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Two new species of Coniopteryx Curtis from China (Neuroptera, Coniopterygidae)
Two new species of Coniopterygidae, Coniopteryx (Coniopteryx) tenuisetosa sp. nov., and Coniopteryx (Coniopteryx) serrata sp. nov., are described from China. Both species differ from congeners in characters of the male genitalia. Coniopteryx (Coniopteryx) alticola Sziráki, 2002, is recorded from China for the first time. A key to species of the genus Coniopteryx from China is presented.
["Dustywings"]

A new species of Princaxelia from Shinkai Seep Field, Mariana Trench (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Pardaliscidae)
A new pardaliscid amphipod, Princaxelia marianaensis sp. nov., is described from a single female captured at the Shinkai Seep Field, Mariana Trench, from a depth of 5,689–5,683 m. A key to species of Princaxelia is provided. This is the first species of Princaxelia to be described from the Mariana Trench, and the second report of this genus from this region.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Description of Hemienchytraeus wuhanensis sp. nov. (Annelida, Clitellata, Enchytraeidae) from central China, with comments on species records of Hemienchytraeus from China
Hemienchytraeus wuhanensis sp. nov. is described from hardwood forest soil in Wuhan, China. This moderately sized enchytraeid species of 6–9 mm body length is characterized by: (1) an oesophageal appendage with tertiary branches, (2) three pairs of secondary pharyngeal gland lobes in V, VI, VII, (3) five pairs preclitellar nephridia, from 5/6 to 9/10, (4) dorsal vessel originating in clitellar segments, (5) a girdle-shaped clitellum, (6) a relatively small male reproductive apparatus without seminal vesicle, and (7) spermathecae that extend to VI–VII. DNA barcodes of paratype specimens of the new species are provided. Previous species records of Hemienchytraeus from China are critically discussed.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Molecular identification and larval morphology of spionid polychaetes (Annelida, Spionidae) from northeastern Japan
Planktonic larvae of spionid polychaetes are among the most common and abundant group in coastal meroplankton worldwide. The present study reports the morphology of spionid larvae collected mainly from coastal waters of northeastern Japan that were identified by the comparison of adult and larval 18S and 16S rRNA gene sequences. The molecular analysis effectively discriminated the species. Adult sequences of 48 species from 14 genera (Aonides Claparède, 1864; Boccardia Carazzi, 1893; Boccardiella Blake & Kudenov, 1978; Dipolydora Verrill, 1881; Laonice Malmgren, 1867; Malacoceros Quatrefages, 1843; Paraprionospio Caullery, 1914; Polydora Bosc, 1802; Prionospio Malmgren, 1867; Pseudopolydora Czerniavsky, 1881; Rhynchospio Hartman, 1936; Scolelepis Blainville, 1828; Spio Fabricius, 1785; Spiophanes Grube, 1860) and larval sequences of 41 species from 14 genera (Aonides; Boccardia; Boccardiella; Dipolydora; Laonice; Paraprionospio; Poecilochaetus Claparède in Ehlers, 1875; Polydora; Prionospio; Pseudopolydora; Rhynchospio; Scolelepis; Spio; Spiophanes) of spionid polychaetes were obtained; sequences of 27 of these species matched between adults and larvae. Morphology of the larvae was generally species‐specific, and larvae from the same genus mostly shared morphological features, with some exceptions. Color and number of eyes, overall body shape, and type and arrangement of pigmentation are the most obvious differences between genera or species. The morphological information on spionid larvae provided in this study contributes to species or genus level larval identification of this taxon in the studied area. Identification keys to genera and species of planktonic spionid larvae in northeastern Japan are provided. The preliminary results of the molecular phylogeny of the family Spionidae using 18S and 16S rRNA gene regions are also provided.
["Larval identification"]

A new species of the genus Opisa Boeck, 1876 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Opisidae) and a new record for Opisa takafuminakanoi from the East Sea, South Korea
Two species of the opisid genus Opisa have been collected from the East Sea of South Korea, one of them described as Opisa parvimana sp. nov.. The new species, O. parvimana sp. nov. is similar to O. odontochela; however, it can be clearly distinguished from this species because it has 12 blunt robust setae in the palm of gnathopod 1. The other collected species, Opisa takafuminakanoi Narahara-Nakano, Kakui & Tomikawa, 2016 is previously known from Japanese waters (southeast of Akkeshi Bay, Hokkaido). Both species are illustrated and compared to related species. A key to Opisa species is also provided.

The tribe Phanerotomini (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Cheloninae) of the Arabian Peninsula, with special reference to the United Arab Emirates and Yemen
For the first time the tribe Phanerotomini (Braconidae, Cheloninae) of the Arabian Peninsula is revised, illustrated by colour photographs and keyed. It resulted in twenty-one new species (of which 20 species belong to the genus Phanerotoma and representing 75% of the reported species): Phanerotomella yemenitica sp. nov., Phanerotoma angusticrus sp. nov., P. artocornuta sp. nov., P. aspidiota sp. nov., P. brunneivena sp. nov., P. caudatoides sp. nov., P. glabritemporalis sp. nov., P. granulata sp. nov., P. ejuncida sp. nov., P. hellyeri sp. nov., P. latifemorata sp. nov., P. lepta sp. nov., P. longivena sp. nov., P. mesocellata sp. nov., P. microdonta sp. nov., P. micrommata sp. nov., P. sculptilis sp. nov., P. signifera sp. nov., P. spuriserrata sp. nov., P. stenochora sp. nov., and P. vanharteni sp. nov. Reported as new for United Arab Emirates and Yemen are Phanerotoma graciloides van Achterberg, 1990, P. masiana Fahringer, 1934, and P. leucobasis Kriechbaumer, 1894 (the latter also for Saudi Arabia), for United Arab Emirates P. ocularis Kohl, 1906, and P. robusta Zettel, 1988, and for Yemen P. bilinea Lyle, 1924, P. flavivena Edmardash & Gadallah, 2019, and P. permixtellae Fischer, 1968. Phanerotoma caboverdensis Hedqvist, 1965, syn. nov. is synonymised with P. leucobasis Kriechbaumer, 1894.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Minimalist revision and description of 403 new species in 11 subfamilies of Costa Rican braconid parasitoid wasps, including host records for 219 species
Three new genera are described: Michener (Proteropinae), Bioalfa (Rogadinae), and Hermosomastax (Rogadinae). Keys are given for the New World genera of the following braconid subfamilies: Agathidinae, Braconinae, Cheloninae, Homolobinae, Hormiinae, Ichneutinae, Macrocentrinae, Orgilinae, Proteropinae, Rhysipolinae, and Rogadinae. In these subfamilies 416 species are described or redescribed. Most of the species have been reared and all but 13 are new to science. A consensus sequence of the COI barcodes possessed by each species is employed to diagnose the species, and this approach is justified in the introduction. Most descriptions consist of a lateral or dorsal image of the holotype, a diagnostic COI consensus barcode, the Barcode Index Number (BIN) code with a link to the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD), and the holotype specimen information required by the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. The following species are treated and those lacking authorship are newly described here with authorship attributable to Sharkey except for the new species of Macrocentrinae which are by Sharkey & van Achterberg: AGATHIDINAE: Aerophilus paulmarshi, Mesocoelus davidsmithi, Neothlipsis bobkulai, Plesiocoelus vanachterbergi, Pneumagathis erythrogastra (Cameron, 1905), Therophilus bobwhartoni, T. donaldquickei, T. gracewoodae, T. maetoi, T. montywoodi, T. penteadodiasae, Zacremnops brianbrowni, Z. coatlicue Sharkey, 1990, Zacremnops cressoni (Cameron, 1887), Z. ekchuah Sharkey, 1990, Z. josefernandezi, Zelomorpha sarahmeierottoae. BRACONINAE: Bracon alejandromarini, B. alejandromasisi, B. alexamasisae, B. andresmarini, B. andrewwalshi, B. anniapicadoae, B. anniemoriceae, B. barryhammeli, B. bernardoespinozai, B. carlossanabriai, B. chanchini, B. christophervallei, B. erasmocoronadoi, B. eugeniephillipsae, B. federicomatarritai, B. frankjoycei, B. gerardovegai, B. germanvegai, B. isidrochaconi, B. jimlewisi, B. josejaramilloi, B. juanjoseoviedoi, B. juliodiazi, B. luzmariaromeroae, B. manuelzumbadoi, B. marialuisariasae, B. mariamartachavarriae, B. mariorivasi, B. melissaespinozae, B. nelsonzamorai, B. nicklaphami, B. ninamasisae, B. oliverwalshi, B. paulamarinae, B. rafamoralesi, B. robertofernandezi, B. rogerblancoi, B. ronaldzunigai, B. sigifredomarini, B. tihisiaboshartae, B. wilberthbrizuelai, Digonogastra montylloydi, D. montywoodi, D. motohasegawai, D. natwheelwrighti, D. nickgrishini. CHELONINAE: Adelius adrianguadamuzi, A. gauldi Shimbori & Shaw, 2019, A. janzeni Shimbori & Shaw, 2019, Ascogaster gloriasihezarae, A. grettelvegae, A. guillermopereirai, A. gustavoecheverrii, A. katyvandusenae, A. luisdiegogomezi, Chelonus alejandrozaldivari, C. gustavogutierrezi, C. gustavoinduni, C. harryramirezi, C. hartmanguidoi, C. hazelcambroneroae, C. iangauldi, C. isidrochaconi, C. janecheverriae, C. jeffmilleri, C. jennyphillipsae, C. jeremydewaardi, C. jessiehillae, C. jesusugaldei, C. jimlewisi, C. jimmilleri, C. jimwhitfieldi, C. johanvalerioi, C. johnburnsi, C. johnnoyesi, C. jorgebaltodanoi, C. jorgehernandezi, C. josealfredohernandezi, C. josefernandeztrianai, C. josehernandezcortesi, C. josemanuelperezi, C. josephinerodriguezae, C. juanmatai, C. junkoshimurae, C. kateperezae, C. luciariosae, C. luzmariaromeroae, C. manuelpereirai, C. manuelzumbadoi, C. marianopereirai, C. maribellealvarezae, C. markmetzi, C. markshawi, C. martajimenezae, C. mayrabonillae, C. meganmiltonae, C. melaniamunozae, C. michaelstroudi, C. michellevanderbankae, C. mingfangi, C. minorcarmonai, C. monikaspringerae, C. moniquegilbertae, C. motohasegawai, C. nataliaivanovae, C. nelsonzamorai, C. normwoodleyi, C. osvaldoespinozai, C. pamelacastilloae, C. paulgoldsteini, C. paulhansoni, C. paulheberti, C. petronariosae, C. ramyamanjunathae, C. randallgarciai, C. rebeccakittelae, C. robertoespinozai, C. robertofernandezi, C. rocioecheverriae, C. rodrigogamezi, C. ronaldzunigai, C. rosibelelizondoae, C. rostermoragai, C. ruthfrancoae, C. scottmilleri, C. scottshawi, C. sergioriosi, C. sigifredomarini, C. stevearonsoni, C. stevestroudi, C. sujeevanratnasinghami, C. sureshnaiki, C. torbjornekremi, C. yeimycedenoae, Leptodrepana alexisae, L. erasmocoronadoi, L. felipechavarriai, L. freddyquesadai, L. gilbertfuentesi, L. manuelriosi, Phanerotoma almasolisae, P. alvaroherrerai, P. anacordobae, P. anamariamongeae, P. andydeansi, P. angelagonzalezae, P. angelsolisi, P. barryhammeli, P. bernardoespinozai, P. calixtomoragai, P. carolinacanoae, P. christerhanssoni, P. christhompsoni, P. davesmithi, P. davidduthiei, P. dirksteinkei, P. donquickei, P. duniagarciae, P. duvalierbricenoi, P. eddysanchezi, P. eldarayae, P. eliethcantillanoae, P. jenopappi, Pseudophanerotoma alanflemingi, Ps. albanjimenezi, Ps. alejandromarini, Ps. alexsmithi, Ps. allisonbrownae, Ps. bobrobbinsi. HOMOLOBINAE: Exasticolus jennyphillipsae, E. randallgarciai, E. robertofernandezi, E. sigifredomarini, E. tomlewinsoni. HORMIINAE: Hormius anamariamongeae, H. angelsolisi, H. anniapicadoae, H. arthurchapmani, H. barryhammeli, H. carmenretanae, H. carloswalkeri, H. cesarsuarezi, H. danbrooksi, H. eddysanchezi, H. erikframstadi, H. georgedavisi, H. grettelvegae, H. gustavoinduni, H. hartmanguidoi, H. hectoraritai, H. hesiquiobenitezi, H. irenecanasae, H. isidrochaconi, H. jaygallegosi, H. jimbeachi, H. jimlewisi, H. joelcracrafti, H. johanvalerioi, H. johnburleyi, H. joncoddingtoni, H. jorgecarvajali, H. juanmatai, H. manuelzumbadoi, H. mercedesfosterae, H. modonnellyae, H. nelsonzamorai, H. pamelacastilloae, H. raycypessi, H. ritacolwellae, H. robcolwelli, H. rogerblancosegurai, H. ronaldzunigai, H. russchapmani, H. virginiaferrisae, H. warrenbrighami, H. willsflowersi. ICHNEUTINAE: Oligoneurus kriskrishtalkai, O. jorgejimenezi, Paroligoneurus elainehoaglandae, P. julianhumphriesi, P. mikeiviei. MACROCENTRINAE: Austrozele jorgecampabadali, A. jorgesoberoni, Dolichozele gravitarsis (Muesebeck, 1938), D. josefernandeztrianai, D. josephinerodriguezae, Hymenochaonia kalevikulli, H. kateperezae, H. katherinebaillieae, H. katherineellisonae, H. katyvandusenae, H. kazumifukunagae, H. keithlangdoni, H. keithwillmotti, H. kenjinishidai, H. kimberleysheldonae, H. krisnorvigae, H. lilianamadrigalae, H. lizlangleyae, Macrocentrus fredsingeri, M. geoffbarnardi, M. gregburtoni, M. gretchendailyae, M. grettelvegae, M. gustavogutierrezi, M. hannahjamesae, M. harisridhari, M. hillaryrosnerae, M. hiroshikidonoi, M. iangauldi, M. jennyphillipsae, M. jesseausubeli, M. jessemaysharkae, M. jimwhitfieldi, M. johnbrowni, M. johnburnsi, M. jonathanfranzeni, M. jonathanrosenbergi, M. jorgebaltodanoi, M. lucianocapelli. ORGILINAE: Orgilus amyrossmanae, O. carrolyoonae, O. christhompsoni, O. christinemcmahonae, O. dianalipscombae, O. ebbenielsoni, O. elizabethpennisiae, O. evertlindquisti, O. genestoermeri, O. jamesriegeri, O. jeanmillerae, O. jeffmilleri, O. jerrypowelli, O. jimtiedjei, O. johnlundbergi, O. johnpipolyi, O. jorgellorentei, O. larryspearsi, O. marlinricei, O. mellissaespinozae, O. mikesmithi, O. normplatnicki, O. peterrauchi, O. richardprimacki, O. sandraberriosae, O. sarahmirandae, O. scottmilleri, O. scottmorii, Stantonia billalleni, S. brookejarvisae, S. donwilsoni, S. erikabjorstromae, S. garywolfi, S. henrikekmani, S. luismirandai, S. miriamzunzae, S. quentinwheeleri, S. robinkazmierae, S. ruthtifferae. PROTEROPINAE: Hebichneutes tricolor Sharkey & Wharton, 1994, Proterops iangauldi, P. vickifunkae, Michener charlesi. RHYSIPOLINAE: Pseudorhysipolis luisfonsecai, P. mailyngonzalezae Rhysipolis julioquirosi. ROGADINAE: Aleiodes adrianaradulovae, A. adrianforsythi, A. agnespeelleae, A. alaneaglei, A. alanflemingi, A. alanhalevii, A. alejandromasisi, A. alessandracallejae, A. alexsmithi, A. alfonsopescadori, A. alisundermieri, A. almasolisae, A. alvarougaldei, A. alvaroumanai, A. angelsolisi, A. annhowdenae, A. bobandersoni, A. carolinagodoyae, A. charlieobrieni, A. davefurthi, A. donwhiteheadi, A. doylemckeyi, A. frankhovorei, A. henryhowdeni, A. inga Shimbori & Shaw, 2020, A. johnchemsaki, A. johnkingsolveri, A. gonodontovorus Shimbori & Shaw, 2020, A. manuelzumbadoi, A. mayrabonillae, A. michelledsouzae, A. mikeiviei, A. normwoodleyi, A. pammitchellae, A. pauljohnsoni, A. rosewarnerae, A. steveashei, A. terryerwini, A. willsflowersi, Bioalfa pedroleoni, B. alvarougaldei, B. rodrigogamezi, Choreborogas andydeansi, C. eladiocastroi, C. felipechavarriai, C. frankjoycei, Clinocentrus andywarreni, Cl. angelsolisi, Cystomastax alexhausmanni, Cy. angelagonzalezae, Cy. ayaigarashiae, Hermosomastax clavifemorus Quicke sp. nov., Heterogamus donstonei, Pseudoyelicones bernsweeneyi, Stiropius bencrairi, S. berndkerni, S. edgargutierrezi, S. edwilsoni, S. ehakernae, Triraphis billfreelandi, T. billmclarneyi, T. billripplei, T. bobandersoni, T. bobrobbinsi, T. bradzlotnicki, T. brianbrowni, T. brianlaueri, T. briannestjacquesae, T. camilocamargoi, T. carlosherrerai, T. carolinepalmerae, T. charlesmorrisi, T. chigiybinellae, T. christerhanssoni, T. christhompsoni, T. conniebarlowae, T. craigsimonsi, T. defectus Valerio, 2015, T. danielhubi, T. davidduthiei, T. davidwahli, T. federicomatarritai, T. ferrisjabri, T. mariobozai, T. martindohrni, T. matssegnestami, T. mehrdadhajibabaei, T. ollieflinti, T. tildalauerae, Yelicones dirksteinkei, Y. markmetzi, Y. monserrathvargasae, Y. tricolor Quicke, 1996. Y. woldai Quicke, 1996. The following new combinations are proposed: Neothlipsis smithi (Ashmead), new combination for Microdus smithi Ashmead, 1894; Neothlipsis pygmaeus (Enderlein), new combination for Microdus pygmaeus Enderlein, 1920; Neothlipsis unicinctus (Ashmead), new combination for Microdus unicinctus Ashmead, 1894; Therophilus anomalus (Bortoni and Penteado-Dias) new combination for Plesiocoelus anomalus Bortoni and Penteado-Dias, 2015; Aerophilus areolatus (Bortoni and Penteado-Dias) new combination for Plesiocoelus areolatus Bortoni and Penteado-Dias, 2015; Pneumagathis erythrogastra (Cameron) new combination for Agathis erythrogastra Cameron, 1905. Dolichozele citreitarsis (Enderlein), new combination for Paniscozele citreitarsis Enderlein, 1920. Dolichozele fuscivertex (Enderlein) new combination for Paniscozele fuscivertex Enderlein, 1920. Finally, Bassus brooksi Sharkey, 1998 is synonymized with Agathis erythrogastra Cameron, 1905; Paniscozele griseipes Enderlein, 1920 is synonymized with Dolichozele koebelei Viereck, 1911; Paniscozele carinifrons Enderlein, 1920 is synonymized with Dolichozele fuscivertex (Enderlein, 1920); and Paniscozele nigricauda Enderlein,1920 is synonymized with Dolichozele quaestor (Fabricius, 1804). (originally described as Ophion quaestor Fabricius, 1804).
["Accelerated taxonomy"]

First records and three new species of the family Symphytognathidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from Thailand, and the circumscription of the genus Crassignatha Wunderlich, 1995
The family Symphytognathidae is reported from Thailand for the first time. Three new species: Anapistula choojaiae sp. nov., Crassignatha seeliam sp. nov., and Crassignatha seedam sp. nov. are described and illustrated. Distribution is expanded and additional morphological data are reported for Patu shiluensis Lin & Li, 2009. Specimens were collected in Thailand between July and August 2018. The newly described species were found in the north mountainous region of Chiang Mai, and Patu shiluensis was collected in the coastal region of Phuket. DNA sequences are provided for all the species here studied. The relations of these symphytognathid species were tested using previously published phylogenetic analyses on micro orb-weavers. Also, we used micro CT analysis to build 3D models of the male genitalia and somatic characters of two species of Crassignatha Wunderlich, 1995. The molecular phylogeny and 3D models were used to discuss the taxonomy and circumscription of the currently valid symphytognathid genera, with focus on Crassignatha and Patu Marples, 1951. Based on this, three new combinations are suggested: Crassignatha bicorniventris (Lin & Li, 2009), comb. nov., Crassignatha quadriventris (Lin & Li, 2009), comb. nov., and Crassignatha spinathoraxi (Lin & Li, 2009), comb. nov. A new record of Crassignatha danaugirangensis Miller et al. 2014 is reported from Brunei.
["3D reconstruction"]

The first record of Tremoctopus violaceus sensu stricto Delle Chiaje,1830 in southwestern Gulf of Mexico gives a hint of the taxonomic status of Tremoctopus gracilis
Knowledge on species taxonomic identity is essential to understand biological and biogeographical processes and for studies on biodiversity. Species the genus Tremoctopus have been confused in the past and are inconsistently identified. To clarify of the taxonomic diagnosis Tremoctopus violaceus Delle Chiaje, 1830, an evaluation of morphological and meristic characters, as well as morphometric indices and genetic analyses, was undertaken. The analyzed octopod was an opportunistically collected mature female of 640 mm in total length, with a mantle length of 135 mm and a total weight of 1.02 kg. Evidence of autotomy as a defensive mechanism for protecting the egg mass is presented. The 16S haplotype sequenced from this specimen represents the first one publicly available for this species from the Gulf of Mexico. The genetic divergence between this haplotype and those reported from the Pacific Ocean is representative of interspecific variation in other taxa, which suggests that “T. violaceus” in the Pacific Ocean (KY649286, MN435565, and AJ252767) should be addressed as T. gracilis instead. Genetic evidence to separate T. violaceus and T. gracilis is presented. The studied specimen from the Gulf of Mexico represents the westernmost known occurrence of T. violaceus and the first record from the southwestern Gulf of Mexico.
["Blanket octopus"]
["Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Five new Sinopoda species (Araneae, Sparassidae) from China and Thailand
Five new species of the huntsman spider genus Sinopoda Jäger, 1999 are described: S. hongruii Wang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, forest in Anhui, China), S. jiangzhou Wang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, cave in Guangxi, China), S. saiyok Wang & Li, sp. nov. (♀, cave in Kanchanaburi, Thailand), S. yanjin Wang & Li, sp. nov. (♀, forest in Yunnan, China), and S. yanzi Wang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, cave in Hunan, China). A distribution map of the new species is provided.

Complete mitochondrial genome sequence of Lepus yarkandensis Günther, 1875 (Lagomorpha, Leporidae): characterization and phylogenetic analysis
Lepus yarkandensis is a national second-class protected animal endemic to China and distributed only in the hot and arid Tarim Basin in Xinjiang. We sequenced and described the complete mitogenome of L. yarkandensis to analyze its characteristics and phylogeny. The species’ DNA is a 17,047 bp circular molecule that includes 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and one control region. The overall base composition was as follows: A, 31.50%; T, 29.40%; G, 13.30% and C, 25.80%, with a high A+T bias of 60.9%. In the PCGs, ND6 had deviation ranges for AT skew (–0.303) and GC skew (0.636). The Ka/Ks values of ND1 (1.067) and ND6 (1.352) genes were >1, indicating positive selection, which might play an important role in the adaptation of L. yarkandensis to arid and hot environments. The conserved sequence block, the central conserved domain, and the extended termination-associated sequences of the control region and their features were identiﬁed and described. The phylogenetic tree based on the complete mitogenome showed that L. yarkandensis was closely related to the sympatric Lepus tibetanus pamirensis. These novel datasets of L. yarkandensis can supply basic data for phylogenetic studies of Lepus spp., apart from providing essential and important resource for further genetic research and the protection of this species.
["mitogenome"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Five new genera of the subfamily Cylapinae (Insecta, Heteroptera, Miridae) from Australia
Cylapinae is one of the poorly studied groups within the megadiverse family Miridae (Insecta: Heteroptera). In this paper, five monotypic genera from Australia are described as new to science. Two of those taxa, Dariella rubrocuneata gen. nov. and sp. nov., and Labriella fusca gen. nov. and sp. nov. are assigned to the tribe Cylapini. Three taxa, Callitropisca florentine gen. nov. and sp. nov., Laetifulvius morganensis gen. nov. and sp. nov. and Micanitropis seisia gen. nov. and sp. nov. are placed into the tribe Fulviini. Habitus images, SEMs of external characters, illustrations of male and female genitalia, and distribution maps are provided for each species where possible. The systematic position and possible relationships of the newly described taxa are discussed.
["Australian fauna"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Polypedilum (Cerobregma) (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Oriental China
Polypedilum (Cerobregma) huapingensis Liu & Lin, sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on an adult male from Huaping National Nature Reserve, Guangxi, China. A DNA barcode analysis, including the known partial COI sequences of species in the Cerobregma subgenus, was conducted. An updated key to adult males of the subgenus Cerobregma is provided.

A new species of the genus Pareas (Squamata, Pareidae) from Yunnan, China
A new species of Pareas is described from Yunnan Province, China, based on morphological comparisons and molecular data. Genetically, the new species is most closely related to the recently-described Pareas geminatus, for which we present new topotypic findings. The genetic divergence (uncorrected p-distance) of the cytb gene between the new species and congeners ranged from 6.14% to 24.68%. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from P. geminatus and all other congeners. Our work brings the total number of species within the genus Pareas to 22.
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

New records of Demospongiae (Porifera) from Reserva Marina El Pelado (Santa Elena, Ecuador), with description of Tedania (Tedania) ecuadoriensis sp. nov.
The first taxonomic descriptions of the sponge diversity at El Pelado Marine Protected Area in the province of Santa Elena, Ecuador is reported. Tedania (Tedania) ecuadoriensis Jaramillo & Hajdu, sp. nov. is described from its shallow waters. In addition, Callyspongia (Callyspongia) aff. californica (sensu Cruz-Barraza and Carballo 2008; non sensu Dickinson 1945) and Cliona aff. euryphylle are reported for the first time. The former species is likely distributed over 4,000 km along the Tropical Eastern Pacific, whereas the latter might be an example of a trans-isthmian lineage. An amended diagnosis for Callyspongia (Callyspongia) and an updated identification key for the subgenera of Callyspongia are provided.
["Callyspongia"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis"]

A new Parazuphium Jeannel, 1942 species (Coleoptera, Carabidae) from the Zagros Mountains in Iran
Parazuphium weigeli sp. nov. is described from the Zagros Mountains in Iran. The microphthalmic species was found in a subalpine site under a deeply embedded stone close to a snow field. It resembles P. salmoni Assmann, Renan & Wrase, 2015, but differs by shape of pronotum and its punctation, eye size, body proportions, and shape of median lobe of aedeagus and preputial sclerites. An identification key to the known species from Iran is given.

Epitokous metamorphosis, reproductive swimming, and early development of the estuarine polychaete, Neanthes glandicincta Southern, 1921 (Annelida, Nereididae) on the east coast of the Malay Peninsula
The reproductive and developmental characteristics of the nereidid polychaete, Neanthes glandicincta Southern, 1921, commonly recorded in tropical estuaries in the Indo-West Pacific, were examined from Malaysia (the mangrove area of Kuala Ibai, Terengganu) and Thailand (the Lower Songkhla Lagoon) on the east coast of the Malay Peninsula. Epitokous metamorphosis of fully mature males and females and their reproductive swimming behaviour were recorded based on ten Malaysian epitokous specimens, which were collected at night during spring tides in a period of January 2018 to March 2019. Six Thailand epitokes were obtained in February and March 2006 by the laboratory rearing of immature worms. Epitokous metamorphosis is characterised by the enlargement of eyes in both sexes, division of the body into three parts and modification of parapodia with additional lobes in the mid-body of males, and replacement of atokous chaetae in the mid-body by epitokous natatory chaetae, completely in males and incompletely in females. The diameter of coelomic unfertilised eggs in females was 100–140 µm. After fertilisation, each egg formed a jelly layer, inside which embryonic development progressed. Trochophores hatched out of the jelly layer, entering a short free-swimming larval phase followed by demersal life at the early stage of 3-chaetiger nectochaeta one day after fertilisation. Then, the larvae entered benthic life as juveniles, crawling on the bottom, at the late stage of 3-chaetiger nectochaeta two days after fertilisation. The results indicate that N. glandicincta has an annual life cycle, which is usually completed within an estuary with limited larval dispersal ability.
["Kuala Ibai"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

New species of Limnophyes Eaton (Diptera, Chironomidae) from China and synonymy of L. fuscipygmus Tokunaga, 1940
Two new species, L. minerus Liu & Yan, sp. nov. and L. subtilus Liu & Yan, sp. nov. are described and illustrated as adult males. Limnophyes minimus (Meigen, 1818) is assigned as a senior synonym of L. minerus Tokunaga, 1940. A key to males of Limnophyes from China is presented.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Description of the male of Xystromutilla bucki Suárez, 1960 (Hymenoptera, Mutillidae), including new information on the biology of the genus
The male of Xystromutilla bucki Suárez, 1960 is described and associated with the female based on couples reared from trap-nests occupied by Auplopus subaurarius Dreisbach, 1963 (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae). Information on the diapause of X. bucki and Pseudomethoca nr. chontalensis (Cameron, 1895) (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae) is presented. Seasonal and annual variation in the abundance of X. turrialba Casal, 1969 are also given.
["Auplopus"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Four new species of isopods (Crustacea, Isopoda) from South Korea
Four new isopods, Amakusanthura intermedia sp. nov., Apanthura laevipedata sp. nov., Idarcturus trispinosus sp. nov., and Neastacilla paralongipectus sp. nov., are reported from the sublittoral zones in Korean waters. Amakusanthura intermedia sp. nov. differs from its congeners by the following features: the uropodal exopod is sinuous distally and with pointed apex; the maxillipedal endite is present and reaching to the distal end of fused palp articles I and II; and the propodal palm of pereopod I is stepped. Apanthura laevipedata sp. nov. can be distinguishable from its related species by the following characteristics: the eye is lacking; the propodal palm of pereopod I is not stepped; and the uropodal exopod is not sinuous. Idarcturus trispinosus sp. nov. is diagnosed by the following features: the cephalon has three dorsal spines and a pair of lateral spines; pereonite IV has two pairs of small dorsolateral spines, four pairs of dorsal spines, and one posterior spine; and the pleotelson has three pairs of wings laterally. Neastacilla paralongipectus sp. nov. can be distinguished by the following characteristics: the body is smooth and lacking dorsal spines or tubercles; pereonite IV is approximately 5.4× longer than pereonites II and III together; and the pleotelson has two pairs of lateral wings. In this paper, detailed descriptions and illustrations of the four species are presented. A key to the genera of the family Arcturidae and keys to the species of the four genera are also provided.
["Amakusanthura"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Numerous new records of tropical non-indigenous species in the Eastern Mediterranean highlight the challenges of their recognition and identification
New data on 52 non-indigenous mollusks in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea is reported. Fossarus sp. (aff. aptus sensu Blatterer 2019), Coriophora lessepsiana Albano, Bakker & Sabelli, sp. nov., Cerithiopsis sp. aff. pulvis, Joculator problematicus Albano & Steger, sp. nov., Cerithiopsis sp., Elachisina sp., Iravadia aff. elongata, Vitrinella aff. Vitrinella sp. 1 (sensu Blatterer 2019), Melanella orientalis, Parvioris aff. dilecta, Odostomia cf. dalli, Oscilla virginiae, Parthenina cossmanni, Parthenina typica, Pyrgulina craticulata, Turbonilla funiculata, Cylichna collyra, Musculus coenobitus, Musculus aff. viridulus, Chavania erythraea, Scintilla cf. violescens, Iacra seychellarum and Corbula erythraeensis are new records for the Mediterranean. An unidentified gastropod, Skeneidae indet., Triphora sp., Hypermastus sp., Sticteulima sp., Vitreolina cf. philippi, Odostomia (s.l.) sp. 1, Henrya (?) sp., and Semelidae sp. are further potential new non-indigenous species although their status should be confirmed upon final taxonomic assessment. Additionally, the status of Dikoleps micalii, Hemiliostraca clandestina comb. nov. and H. athenamariae comb. nov. is changed to non-indigenous, range extensions for nine species and the occurrence of living individuals for species previously recorded from empty shells only are reported. Opimaphora blattereri Albano, Bakker & Sabelli, sp. nov. is described from the Red Sea for comparison with the morphologically similar C. lessepsiana Albano, Bakker & Sabelli, sp. nov. The taxonomic part is followed by a discussion on how intensive fieldwork and cooperation among institutions and individuals enabled such a massive report, and how the poor taxonomic knowledge of the Indo-Pacific fauna hampers non-indigenous species detection and identification. Finally, the hypothesis that the simultaneous analysis of quantitative benthic death assemblages can support the assignment of non-indigenous status to taxonomically undetermined species is discussed.
["Cerithiopsidae"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A new species of Coomaniella (Coleoptera, Buprestidae, Coomaniellini) from Guangxi, China, with new distributional records and biological observations
A new species Coomaniella (Coomaniella) dentata sp. nov. from Guangxi Province, China, is described and placed in the C. (C.) chinensis species-group. The variability is discussed, and a new adult host plant is recorded. New distributional records are given for C. biformissima Jendek & Kalashian, 1999 and C. lingafelteri Jendek & Pham, 2013.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Five new species of the genera Falcileptoneta and Longileptoneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) from South Korea
Five new leptonetid species belonging to Falcileptoneta Komatsu, 1970 and Longileptoneta Seo, 2015 are newly described from South Korea: F. dolsan sp. nov. (Jeollanam-do), F. naejangsan sp. nov. (Jeollabuk-do), L. buyongsan sp. nov. (Chungcheongbuk-do), L. byeonsanbando sp. nov. (Jeollabuk-do) and L. jirisan sp. nov. (Gyeongsangnam-do). All new species are found in leaf litter and described from both male and female specimens.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Two new species of Ooceraea (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Dorylinae) from India with ten-segmented antennae
Two new species, O. decamera sp. nov. and O. joshii sp. nov., of the ant genus Ooceraea are described from India. These species differ from other known congeners on the basis of number of antennal segments. An illustrated key to the known species based on the worker caste is also provided.
["Cerapachys"]

Three new species of the segmented spider genus Qiongthela (Mesothelae, Liphistiidae) from Hainan Island, China
We report three new species of the segmented trapdoor spider genus Qiongthela Xu & Kuntner, 2015 collected from Hainan Island, China based on morphological characters: Q. dongfang sp. nov. (♂♀), Q. nankai sp. nov. (♂♀), Q. yalin sp. nov. (♂♀). We also provide the GenBank accession codes of the DNA barcode gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), of the type specimens of all three new species to aid future identification.
["DNA barcodemorphologytaxonomytrapdoor spiders"]

Notes on the genus Xestopus from China, with description of a new species (Carabidae,Sphodrini, Dolichina)
The genus Xestopus Andrewes, 1937 in China is reviewed, with the description of a new species: X. gutangensis Zhu & Kavanaugh, sp. nov. (type locality: Xizang: Mêdog, 29.46414°N, 95.73563°E). The male of X. cyaneus Sciaky & Facchini, 1997 is described for the first time, and the first record of this species in Yunnan, China, represents an eastward range extension for the species. A key is provided for the eight known species of the genus.

Lake Poso's shrimp fauna revisited: the description of five new species of the genus Caridina (Crustacea, Decapoda, Atyidae) more than doubles the number of endemic lacustrine species
Lake Poso, an ancient lake system on the Indonesian island Sulawesi, harbours an endemic species flock of six, four lacustrine and two riverine species of the freshwater shrimp genus Caridina. In this study, five new lacustrine species are described, bringing the total to eleven species altogether. The number of lacustrine species is more than doubled to nine species compared to the last taxonomic revision in 2009. One of them, Caridina mayamareenae Klotz, Wowor & von Rintelen, sp. nov., even represents the first case of an atyid shrimp associated with freshwater snails which is morphologically adapted to living in shells. An integrative approach was used by providing a combination of morphological, ecological, and molecular data. Based on standard morphological characters, distribution, substrate preferences, and colouration of living specimens in the field, five distinct undescribed species could be distinguished. To support our species-hypothesis based on the mitochondrial genes 16S and COI, a molecular phylogeny was used for all eleven species from Lake Poso. All species form a well-supported monophyletic group, but only four morphospecies consistently correspond to mtDNA clades – a possible reason could be introgressive hybridisation, incomplete lineage sorting, or not yet fixed species boundaries. These results are discussed further in the context of adaptive radiation, which turned out to be more diverse than previously described. Finally, yet importantly, subjecting all new species to similar threats and to the same IUCN category and criterion than the previously described species from the lake is recommended.
["Adaptive radiation"]

Three new species of Cataglyphis Foerster, 1850 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Iran
Cataglyphis bazoftensis sp. nov., C. fritillariae sp. nov., and C. dejdaranensis sp. nov. are described from the Koohrang county of central-west Iran (Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari Province). All new species belong to the C. altisquamis complex and are characterized by presence of the thick, black, and decumbent setae on lateral and posterior surfaces of tibiae. Additionally, a key to Asian Cataglyphis was updated to accommodate the new species.
["Central-western Iran"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A new species of Rangabradya (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Ectinosomatidae) from a cave in Satun Province, southern Thailand
A representative of the family Ectinosomatidae was discovered in a temporary pool in a cave in the Satun Province, southern Thailand. Based on the characteristics of the antennary exopod, armature of the female fifth leg, and configuration of the male sixth leg, a new species of the genus Rangabradya was identified, representing the first record of the genus in the continental waters of Thailand and in Southeast Asia. The new species can be distinguished from Rangabradya indica by the configurations of the fifth and the sixth legs in both sexes, the body ornamentation of the urosomite, and the armature of the mouthparts. These structures show a more primitive state in the new species. Accordingly, a new subgeneric rank in the genus Rangabradya, Siamorangabradya subgen. nov, was established to accommodate the Thai species and Rangabradya (Siamorangabradya) wongkamhaengae subgen. et sp. nov. was described. Also, the key to all 23 genera of the family was updated.
["Anchialine caves"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Two new species of Dzhanokmenia (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) from China, with first report on a host association for the genus
Two new species of Dzhanokmenia Kostjukov (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae: Tetrastichinae), D. stefaniolae Li, Wang & Hu, sp. nov. and D. yuxuannis Li, Wang & Hu, sp. nov., are described and illustrated from Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China. D. stefaniolae was reared from stem-galls made by Stefaniola sp. (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) on black saxaul, Haloxylon ammodendron (Chenopodiaceae); D. yuxuannis was collected by sweeping from both black saxaul and white saxaul, H. persicum, in Beishawo Desert near Fukang. A key to females of all known species of Dzhanokmenia is provided.
["Cecidomyiidae"]

New record of the genus Manipuria Jacoby (Chrysomelidae, Criocerinae) from China, with description of a new species
After a century since the erection of the genus Manipuria from India, its type species M. dohertyi Jacoby was discovered in Yunnan Province of China. A new Manipuria species, M. yuae sp. nov., is described from Tibet and Yunnan, China. The new species differs from M. dohertyi by its larger size, unicolored elytra, and absence of a tooth-like prolongation in front of the mandible. Additional data is provided for M. dohertyi based on new material from China.

A new species of the genus Leptobrachella Smith, 1925 (Anura, Megophryidae) from Guizhou, China
Asian leaf-litter toads of the genus Leptobrachella represent charismatic anuran diversification with 80 species, of which 25 are from China. Recent new discoveries suggest that the diversity of this genus is underestimated. Here, we describe a new species of Leptobrachella, Leptobrachella bashaensis sp. nov. from the Basha Nature Reserve, Congjiang County, Guizhou Province, China. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by the following suite of morphological traits: small body size (SVL 22.9–25.6 mm in six adult males and 27.1 mm in one adult female); head longer than wide; dorsal skin slightly shagreened with small tubercles; creamy-white chest and belly with irregular black spots; distinct ventrolateral glands forming a white line; finger webbing and fringes absent; toe webbing rudimentary and lateral fringes narrow; iris bicolored with bright orange in upper half and silver in lower half; dorsal surface of tadpole head dark brown with small, brown, irregular spot, air sac-shaped bulges on both sides of body. The new species differs from all known congeners by an uncorrected p-distance of >5.3% of the 16S rRNA gene fragment examined, and the phylogenetic analysis clusters the new species with L. maoershanensis and L. laui. At present, the new species is only known from a small range of montane evergreen secondary forests in Basha Nature Reserve approximately 900 m elevation. Its natural history and conservation status are discussed.
["Integrated taxonomy"]

A new species of Chromis damselfish from the tropical western Atlantic (Teleostei, Pomacentridae)
Initially described in 1882, Chromis enchrysurus, the Yellowtail Reeffish, was redescribed in 1982 to account for an observed color morph that possesses a white tail instead of a yellow one, but morphological and geographic boundaries between the two color morphs were not well understood. Taking advantage of newly collected material from submersible studies of deep reefs and photographs from rebreather dives, this study sought to determine whether the white-tailed Chromis is actually a color morph of Chromis enchrysurus or a distinct species. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial genes cytochrome b and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I separated Chromis enchrysurus and the white-tailed Chromis into two reciprocally monophyletic clades. A principal component analysis based on 27 morphological characters separated the two groups into clusters that correspond with caudal-fin coloration, which was either known or presumed based on the specimen’s collection site according to biogeographic data on species boundaries in the Greater Caribbean. Genetic, morphological, and biogeographic data all indicate that the white-tailed Chromis is a distinct species, herein described as Chromis vanbebberae sp. nov. The discovery of a new species within a conspicuous group such as damselfishes in a well-studied region of the world highlights the importance of deep-reef exploration in documenting undiscovered biodiversity.
["Caribbean"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A contribution to the knowledge of cavernicolous ground beetles from Sichuan Province, southwestern China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechini, Platynini)
Two new genera and four new species of cave-adapted ground beetles are described from Sichuan Province, southwestern China. Uenoaphaenops gen. nov. is established to place the trechine species Qianotrechus fani Uéno, 2003 occurring in the limestone cave Hua’er Dong, southeastern Sichuan (Luzhou: Gulin). Chu pheggomisetoides gen. nov. & sp. nov., from the limestone cave Hanwang Dong, northeastern Sichuan (Guangyuan: Chaotian), is somewhat like the European cavernicolous trechine genus Pheggomisetes Knirsch, 1923, from Bulgaria and Serbia, in particular in the configurations of head and pronotum. Boreaphaenops liyuani sp. nov., also from Hanwang Dong, is the second representative of the genus and the first record in Sichuan. Agonotrechus sinotroglophilus Deuve, 1999, a troglophile, is reported from Sichuan for the first time. The other two new species belong to the platynine genus Jujiroa Uéno, 1952: J. uenoi sp. nov. from the cave Banche Dong on the northern side of the Dadu River (Leshan: Shawan) and J. wangzheni sp. nov. from the cave Hua’er Dong, which is sympatric with Uenoaphaenops fani (Uéno, 2003) comb. nov. A distribution map for the localities of all abovementioned caves and a key to Jujiroa species known in Sichuan are provided.
["Carabids"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

The second known stygomorphic freshwater crab from China, Phasmon typhlops gen. nov. et sp. nov. (Crustacea, Decapoda, Potamidae), diverged at the beginning of the Late Miocene
A new genus and new species of blind freshwater cave crab are described from Chongzuo City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China based on morphology and mitochondrial 16S rDNA sequences. The new genus, Phasmon gen. nov., is established for P. typhlops sp. nov., which is only the second blind cave crab known from China and East Asia. The combination of a very wide carapace, overall depigmentation, reduced orbits and vestigial unpigmented eyes of Phasmon immediately separates it from all known potamid genera. Molecular divergence estimates based on 16S rDNA suggest that the lineage to which the new genus belongs diverged from other potamids at the beginning of the Late Miocene (10.8 million years ago), much earlier than other Chinese cave crabs.

New Metalimnobia crane flies (Diptera, Limoniidae) from China with an update of species distributions
Two new species of the genus Metalimnobia Matsumura, 1911 from southwest China, M. (M.) bicolor sp. nov. and M. (M.) caudifusca sp. nov., are described and illustrated. The new species can be distinguished from congeners by their wing patterns and male genitalia. New distributional data are given for the following species: M. (M.) bifasciata (Schrank, 1781), M. (M.) quadrinotata (Meigen, 1818) and M. (M.) tenua Savchenko, 1976. An updated key for all Chinese Metalimnobia crane flies is presented.

Caridina sinanensis, a new species of stygobiotic atyid shrimp (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae) from a karst cave in the Guizhou Province, southwestern China
From a biodiversity survey of a subterranean habitat near Sinan County, Guizhou Province, southwestern China, a new atyid shrimp of the genus Caridina H. Milne Edwards, 1837, C. sinanensis sp. nov. was discovered. The new species can be separated from other congeners based on a combination of characters including depigmentation in body and reduction of eyes, small pigment spot at the centre of the cornea, the shape of rostrum and the endopod of the 1st male pleopod, and the relatively longer appendix interna on the appendix masculina of the 2nd pleopod. Mitochondrial COI and 16S rRNA gene sequences also support the establishment of the new species. Information on the habitat, and the levels of threat are discussed to guide the conservation of C. sinanensis sp. nov.
["Caridina"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Deep-sea clawed lobster Nephropsis stewarti Wood-Mason, 1872 species complex in the Indo-West Pacific (Crustacea, Decapoda, Nephropidae), with description of a new species
Nephropsis stewarti Wood-Mason, 1872 is the most common species of the deep-sea clawed lobster genus Nephropsis Wood-Mason, 1872 in the Indo-West Pacific. Morphological comparisons and genetic analyses of extensive material referred to this lobster revealed the presence of three species. The three species differ mainly in body size, development of the intermediate carina on the carapace, position of the lateral pair of rostral teeth, whether the pleonal tergum is granulate, and the spination on the large chelipeds. Nephropsis stewarti is restricted to the western central Indian Ocean, and a neotype is selected to fix its identity. The name Nephropsis grandis Zarenkov, 2006 is revived with neotype selection for the large form found in the West Pacific and northwestern Australia. The smaller form from southern Taiwan and the Philippines is described as Nephropsis pygmaea sp. nov.
["Deep-sea"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Using the combined gene approach and multiple analytical methods to improve the phylogeny and classification of Bombus (Hymenoptera, Apidae) in China
Bumble bees are vital to our agro-ecological system, with approximately 250 species reported around the world in the single genus Bombus. However, the health of bumble bees is threatened by multiple factors: habitat loss, climate change, pesticide use, and disease caused by pathogens and parasites. It is therefore vitally important to have a fully developed phylogeny for bumble bee species as part of our conservation efforts. The purpose of this study was to explore the phylogenetic relationships of the dominant bumble bees on the Tibetan plateau and in northern China as well as their placement and classification within the genus Bombus. The study used combined gene analysis consisting of sequence fragments from six genes, 16S rRNA, COI, EF-1α, Argk, Opsin and PEPCK, and the phylogenetic relationships of 209 Bombus species were explored. Twenty-six species, including 152 gene sequences, were collected from different regions throughout China, and 1037 gene sequences representing 183 species were obtained from GenBank or BOLD. The results suggest that the 209 analyzed species belong to fifteen subgenera and that most of the subgenera in Bombus are monophyletic, which is in accordance with conventional morphology-based classifications. The phylogenetic trees also show that nearly all subgenera easily fall into two distinct clades: short-faced and long-faced. The study is the first to investigate the phylogenetic placement of Bombus turneri (Richards), Bombus opulentus Smith, Bombus pyrosoma Morawitz, Bombus longipennis Friese, Bombus minshanensis Bischoff, and Bombus lantschouensis Vogt, all of which are widely distributed throughout different regions of China. The knowledge and understanding gained from the findings can provide a molecular basis to accurately classify Bombus in China and to define strategies to conserve biodiversity and promote pollinator populations.
["Bombus"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Revision of the endemic Afrotropical genus Tetractenion (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) with an identification key to genera of Banchinae for the region
The Afrotropical banchine fauna comprises 12 genera: Apophua Morley, Atropha Kriechbaumer, Cryptopimpla Taschenberg, Exetastes Gravenhorst, Glyptopimpla Morley, Himertosoma Schmiedeknecht, Lissonota Gravenhorst, Sjostedtiella Szépligeti, Spilopimpla Cameron, Syzeuctus Förster, Tetractenion Seyrig, and Tossinola Viktorov. A well-illustrated revised key to the genera using high definition images is provided, and the endemic Afrotropical genus Tetractenion is revised, previously represented by two described species. Four new species are described: T. ibayaensis sp. nov., T. pascali sp. nov., T. pseudolutea sp. nov., and T. rosei sp. nov. The first species-level identification key is provided for this rare genus. Based on morphological attributes the hypothesis is presented that the species in this genus are probably nocturnal. All images and online interactive Lucid keys are available at: www.waspweb.org and the associated underlying data is made available as Suppl. materials 1, 2 LIF3 files to this paper for inter-exchange with other key production software.
["Atrophini"]

Three new species of Exocelina Broun, 1886 from the southern slopes of the New Guinea central range, with introduction of the Exocelina skalei group (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Three new species of the genus Exocelina Broun, 1886: E. brazza sp. nov., E. amabilis sp. nov. and E. mimika sp. nov. are described from New Guinea. The former two species are placed into the E. ekari group, while the latter is suggested to be a member of a separate lineage, the newly introduced E. skalei group. The only other species of that group is E. skalei Shaverdo & Balke, 2014. The group is phylogenetically sister of the E. ekari group. All species have been collected on the southern slopes of the New Guinea central range, a region that remains mostly unsampled.

Pimpla Fabricius, 1804 (Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) from Uruguay: a replacement name, new records, and an identification key to the species
We report new faunistic records of Pimpla Fabricius, 1804 from Uruguay. The following species are reported from the country for the first time: P. albomarginata Cameron, 1846, P. caerulea Brullé, 1846, P. perssoni Gauld, 1991, and P. semirufa Brullé, 1846. In addition, we propose a replacement name for Pimpla rufipes Brullé, 1846 and provide diagnosis, digital images, and an identification key for all the Pimpla species known to occur in Uruguay.
["Faunistics"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Shards, sequences, and shorelines: two new species of Bembidion from North America (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Two new species of Bembidion are described from river shores in North America. One, Bembidion mimbres sp. nov., from the Gila River watershed in the lands of the Mimbres culture in New Mexico and Arizona, is closely related to the widespread Bembidion levigatum. DNA sequences from several linkage groups and morphology provide evidence of the distinctiveness of B. mimbres. The second, Bembidion corgenoma sp. nov., has been the subject of recent genomic and transcriptomic studies. It belongs in the Bembidion transversale subgroup, and occurs from California north to British Columbia, east to Montana and Nevada. The B. transversale subgroup as a whole is reviewed, and morphological characters that distinguish B. corgenoma from the similar and sympatric B. transversale and B. erosum are described and illustrated. DNA sequences of these three species show no consistent differences in 28S, COI, CAD, and Topoisomerase, and a coalescent species delimitation analysis reveals no notable structure within the complex. This is the first known trio of species within Bembidion for which those genes provide no clear signal of species boundaries. A neotype is designated for the one name in the group that lacks a primary type, Bembidium haplogonum Chaudoir. Chromosomes of the new species and their relatives are as is typical for Bembidion, with eleven pairs of autosomes and an XY/XX sex chromosome system.
["Bembidiini"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Ceratina (Ceratinula) Moure, 1941, with notes on the taxonomy and distribution of Ceratina (Ceratinula) manni Cockerell, 1912, and an identification key for species of this subgenus known from Brazil (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Ceratinini)
A new species of the small carpenter bee, genus Ceratina (Ceratinula) Moure, from the Cerrado Biome in midwestern Brazil is described and illustrated. Ceratina (Ceratinula) fioreseana Oliveira, sp. nov. is easily distinguished from its congeners by the size of the facial maculations and the honey-yellow color of the legs and antennal scape, which distinguish it especially from Ceratina (Ceratinula) manni Cockerell, 1912, the most similar species in terms of facial maculation patterns. The geographic records of C. manni, here interpreted as endemic to the semiarid Caatinga region in northeastern Brazil, are presented, with new records for the Brazilian states of Piauí, Ceará and Bahia. A morphological description of both species is provided, including a comparison with the type specimen of C. manni from the state of Paraíba (Guarabira, formerly named Independencia). An identification key is provided for the described species of Ceratina (Ceratinula) recorded for Brazil according to Moure’s Catalogue of Neotropical Bees.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

An annotated checklist of Coccinellidae (Insecta, Coleoptera) with eight new records from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The members of Coccinellidae are among the most important biological control agents being used throughout the world. The objective of this study was to provide the current scenario of this family in Saudi Arabia. Collection surveys of ladybird individuals were conducted throughout Saudi Arabia. A total of 5400 specimens of Coccinellidae were collected belonging to 51 species in 19 genera and seven tribes: Sticholotidini (2 genera / 10 species), Coccidulini (1/3), Scymnini (4/24), Diomini (1/1), Hyperaspidini (1/3), Chilocorini (3/8), Noviini (1/3), Coccinellini (8/11), Epilachnini (2/2). One genus, Clitostethus, and eight species and subspecies, Cheilomenes lunata lunata (Fabricius, 1775), Clitostethus arcuatus (Rossi, 1794), Nephus ornatulus Korschefsky, 1931, N. nigricans (Weise, 1879), Pharoscymnus fleischeri (Weise, 1883), Novius yemenensis Raimundo & Fürsch, 2006, Scymnus (Scymnus) scapuliferus Mulsant, 1850, and Stethorus endrodyi Fürsch, 1970, are reported as new records to Saudi Arabia. Two endemic species, Scymnus agrumi and S. arabicus, were recorded. This study also describes the geographical distribution for each species and the diagnostic characters for new records.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Red Sea Opisthobranchia 6: Phyllidiidae and their paradorid mimic: new species and new records (Heterobranchia, Nudibranchia, Doridina)
With the complexity of the family Phyllidiidae and the problems of identification in the Indo-West Pacific, the story of the Red Sea species continues to unfold. One new species and one new record are added to the Red Sea fauna, both belonging to the genus Phyllidiella. Phyllidiella amphitrite sp. nov. is described from a single specimen from the northern Red Sea and clearly differs from all species of Phyllidiella in having pale yellow pigment on the tubercles. Phyllidiella zeylanica is newly recorded from the Red Sea with five specimen records and several photographed individuals; other than this, it has a western Indian Ocean distribution. Phyllidia schupporum was collected for the first time since its original description; because its distribution is now extended to the Persian Gulf, it is no longer considered endemic to the Red Sea. The distribution of the Red Sea endemic Phyllidia dautzenbergi is extended northwards to Hurghada, Egypt. A small specimen of the endemic Phyllidiopsis sinaiensis was found at 214–237 m depth just at the mouth of the Red Sea, which is a bathymetrical range extension from its previous shallow coral reef records. The identifications of other species are revisited. A new species of Paradoris is described as Paradoris hypocrita sp. nov., differing from the well-known but localised West Pacific P. liturata which also resembles a phyllidiid. This new species was recorded many years ago by published photographs, and it is relatively common in the Red Sea, evidenced by several specimens and additional photographs. It is described herein, and is considered a Red Sea endemic, differing from both the unnamed Indian Ocean species and the named Pacific species.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Description of a new horned toad of Megophrys Kuhl & Van Hasselt, 1822 (Amphibia, Megophryidae) from Zhejiang Province, China
A new species of the Asian horned toad genus Megophrys is described from Zhejiang Province, China, based on multiple data. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA indicated the new species as an independent clade deeply clustered into the Megophrys clade. The new species is identified from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size small (SVL 28.4–32.4 mm in males); vomerine teeth absent; tongue not notched behind; tympanum distinctly visible, oval; a small horn-like tubercle present at the edge of each upper eyelid; two metacarpal tubercles distinctly visible in hand; toes without webbing; heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level to middle of eye when leg stretched forward; an internal single subgular vocal sac in male; in breeding male, the nuptial pads present on the dorsal base of the first two fingers.
["Molecular phylogenetic analyses"]

Tetramesa amica and its parasitoid Eurytoma amicophaga (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae): two new species associated with medusahead, Taeniatherum caput-medusae (Poaceae)
Medusahead, Taeniatherum caput-medusae (Poales: Poaceae), is an annual grass native to central Asia and the Mediterranean region. It is a noxious, invasive weed in much of western North America. During field explorations carried out in Greece in 2017, the new phytophagous eurytomid Tetramesa amica Lotfalizadeh, sp. nov. and its parasitoid Eurytoma amicophaga Lotfalizadeh, sp. nov., also new to science, were recorded for the first time on medusahead. These new species are described and characters that enable to recognize them from their closest relatives are summarized. Tetramesa species are generally species-specific gall-inducers. They induce damages that may have a significant impact on the physiology of infested plants by reducing the productivity of flowering heads and seed weight. Based on these data, T. amica Lotfalizadeh, sp. nov. is currently being investigated as a candidate biological control agent of medusahead.
["Biological control"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Three new and one little-known species of Hypogastruridae (Collembola) from Russia’s northeast
Three new species, Hypogastrura variata sp. nov., Xenylla aculeata sp. nov., and X. arnei sp. nov., are described based on material from coastal communities of the Sea of Okhotsk, northeast Russia. Taxonomic remarks concerning a little-known species, H. yosii Stach, 1964, found in coastal wrack sediments on Kunashir Island, Kuriles are also given. COI sequences of the above species are analysed, thus allowing for their species statuses to be confirmed.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine and environmental studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Complete mitochondrial genome of the freshwater fish Onychostoma lepturum (Teleostei, Cyprinidae): genome characterization and phylogenetic analysis
The cyprinid genus Onychostoma Günther, 1896 consists of 24 valid species distributed in Southeast Asia, including Taiwan, Hainan, mainland China and the Indochina region. In the present study, we determined the complete mitochondrial genome of O. lepturum, which is 16,598 bp in length, containing 13 protein-coding genes, two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes and a typical control region (D-loop). To verify the molecular phylogeny of the subfamily Acrossocheilinae, we provide new insights to better understand the taxonomic status of Acrossocheilus, Onychostoma and Folifer brevifilis. The phylogenetic trees presented three major clades based on the 13 protein-coding genes from 28 Acrossocheilinae species. Clades I and II represent the Onychostoma and Acrossocheilus groups, respectively. Species of Acrossocheilus, Onychostoma and F. brevifilis are included in Clade III, which is considered as an ancestral group. This work provides genomic variation information and improves our understanding of the Acrossocheilinae mitogenome, which will be most valuable in providing new insights for phylogenetic analysis and population genetics research.
["Cyprinid"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A new leafhopper species of the genus Anagonalia from India (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Cicadellinae)
A new leafhopper species, Anagonalia lapnanensis sp. nov., is described from Arunachal Pradesh, India. A morphological variant is also described which, is interpreted as belonging to the same species due to negligible divergence in the COI mtDNA gene. Detailed illustration of males and female are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

Checklist of rodents and insectivores of the Mordovia, Russia
A list of 40 species is presented of the rodents and insectivores collected during a 15-year period from the Republic of Mordovia. The dataset contains more than 24,000 records of rodent and insectivore species from 23 districts, including Saransk. A major part of the data set was obtained during expedition research and at the biological station. The work is based on the materials of our surveys of rodents and insectivorous mammals conducted in Mordovia using both trap lines and pitfall arrays using traditional methods.
["Insectivores"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

A phylogenetic and taxonomic review of baviine jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae, Baviini)
The systematics and taxonomy of the tropical Asian jumping spiders of the tribe Baviini is reviewed, with a molecular phylogenetic study (UCE sequence capture, traditional Sanger sequencing) guiding a reclassification of the group’s genera. The well-studied members of the group are placed into six genera: Bavia Simon, 1877, Indopadilla Caleb & Sankaran, 2019, Padillothorax Simon, 1901, Piranthus Thorell, 1895, Stagetillus Simon, 1885, and one new genus, Maripanthus Maddison, gen. nov. The identity of Padillothorax is clarified, and Bavirecta Kanesharatnam & Benjamin, 2018 synonymized with it. Hyctiota Strand, 1911 is synonymized with Stagetillus. The molecular phylogeny divides the baviines into three clades, the Piranthus clade with a long embolus (Piranthus, Maripanthus), the genus Padillothorax with a flat body and short embolus, and the Bavia clade with a higher body and (usually) short embolus (remaining genera). In general, morphological synapomorphies support or extend the molecularly delimited groups. Eighteen new species are described: Bavia nessagyna, Indopadilla bamilin, I. kodagura, I. nesinor, I. redunca, I. redynis, I. sabivia, I. vimedaba, Maripanthus draconis (type species of Maripanthus), M. jubatus, M. reinholdae, Padillothorax badut, P. mulu, Piranthus api, P. bakau, P. kohi, P. mandai, and Stagetillus irri, all sp. nov., with taxonomic authority W. Maddison. The distinctions between baviines and the astioid Nungia Żabka, 1985 are reviewed, leading to four species being moved into Nungia from Bavia and other genera. Fifteen new combinations are established: Bavia maurerae (Freudenschuss & Seiter, 2016), Indopadilla annamita (Simon, 1903), I. kahariana (Prószyński & Deeleman-Reinhold, 2013), I. sonsorol (Berry, Beatty & Prószyński, 1997), I. suhartoi (Prószyński & Deeleman-Reinhold, 2013), Maripanthus menghaiensis (Cao & Li, 2016), M. smedleyi (Reimoser, 1929), Nungia hatamensis (Thorell, 1881), N. modesta (Keyserling, 1883), N. papakula (Strand, 1911), N. xiaolonghaensis (Cao & Li, 2016), Padillothorax casteti (Simon, 1900), P. exilis (Cao & Li, 2016), P. flavopunctus (Kanesharatnam & Benjamin, 2018), Stagetillus banda (Strand, 1911), all comb. nov. One combination is restored, Bavia capistrata (C. L. Koch, 1846). Five of these new or restored combinations correct previous errors of placing species in genera that have superficially similar palps but extremely different body forms, in fact belonging in distantly related tribes, emphasizing that the general shape of male palps should be used with caution in determining relationships. A little-studied genus, Padillothorus Prószyński, 2018, is tentatively assigned to the Baviini. Ligdus Thorell, 1895 is assigned to the Ballini.

Five million years in the darkness: A new troglomorphic species of Cryptops Leach, 1814 (Chilopoda, Scolopendromorpha) from Movile Cave, Romania
A new species of Cryptops Leach, 1814, C. speleorex sp. nov., is described from Movile Cave, Dobrogea, Romania. The cave is remarkable for its unique ecosystem entirely dependent on methane- and sulfur-oxidising bacteria. Until now, the cave was thought to be inhabited by the epigean species C. anomalans, which is widespread in Europe. Despite its resemblance to C. anomalans, the new species is well-defined morphologically and molecularly based on two mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I COI and 16S rDNA) and one nuclear (28S rDNA) markers. Cryptops speleorex sp. nov. shows a number of troglomorphic traits such as a generally large body and elongated appendages and spiracles, higher number of coxal pores and saw teeth on the tibia of the ultimate leg. With this record, the number of endemic species known from the Movile Cave reaches 35, which ranks it as one of the most species-rich caves in the world.
["Biospeleology"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine and environmental studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The genus Nipponodrasterius Kishii (Coleoptera, Elateridae, Agrypninae), a junior synonym of the genus Gamepenthes Fleutiaux (Coleoptera, Elateridae, Elaterinae), with review of the Japanese Gamepenthes species
The genus Nipponodrasterius Kishii, 1966 was established as a member of the subfamily Conoderinae Fleutiaux, 1919 (now tribe Oophorini Gistel, 1848; subfamily Agrypninae Candèze, 1857) based on N. alpicola. The genus was suggested to be unlikely to belong to Agrypninae because it lacks diagnostic features of the Agrypninae. However, there are no taxonomic treatments for the genus or species. Here, we review the status of the genus and species by examining the holotype of N. alpicola. Consequently, the genus was found to be a junior synonym of the genus Gamepenthes Fleutiaux, 1928 and N. alpicola was found to be a junior synonym of G. pictipennis (Lewis, 1894). We review all species of Gamepenthes in Japan and provide a key to species.
["Japan"]

New and interesting findings of scarab beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea) from Tajikistan
We report on new findings of nearly 50 species that represent four families of the superfamily Scarabaeoidea, which were collected during an expedition to western Tajikistan that was carried out in June and July 2014. Rhyssemodes transcaspicus Rakovič, 1982 is recorded from the country for the first time. Moreover, we describe and illustrate the differences in the external morphology between Euonthophagus gibbosus (Scriba, 1790) and E. koshantschikoffi (Reitter, 1891), the latter of which has a doubtful systematic position. In the collected material of approximately 1,000 specimens, more than 90% of the species and 95% of the individuals belong to the family Scarabaeidae. The other species represent the families Geotrupidae, Glaphyridae, and Hybosoridae.
["Euonthophagus koshantschikoffi"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Ancyronyx lianlabangorum sp. nov., a new spider riffle beetle from Sarawak, and new distribution records for A. pulcherrimus Kodada, Jäch & Čiampor based on DNA barcodes (Coleoptera, Elmidae)
Ancyronyx lianlabangorum sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Elmidae), a new spider riffle beetle from the Kelabit Highlands (Sarawak, northern Borneo), is described. Illustrations of the habitus and diagnostic characters of the new species and the similar, polymorphic A. pulcherrimus Kodada et al. are presented. Differences to closely related species, based on COI nucleotide sequences and morphological characters, are discussed. Ancyronyx pulcherrimus is here recorded from Sarawak for the first time, based on DNA barcoding.
["Ancyronyx"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of the genus Symphylella (Symphyla, Scolopendrellidae) from East China
Symphylella minuta sp. nov. and Symphylella communa sp. nov. from China are described and illustrated. Symphylella minuta sp. nov. is characterized by the delicate and minute body, a well-developed and thin central rod with a vestige of a transverse suture in the middle, eight setae on the first tergite, pointed processes on the tergites, and short cerci with sparse setae. Symphylella communa sp. nov. is characterized by the chaetotaxy of the first tergite with 4+4 setae, processes of the tergites somewhat longer or the same length with broad, most of lateromaginal setae long, anterolateral setae of tergites 2–4, 6, 7, 9, and 10 distinctly longer than other lateromarginal setae, approximately as long as the process of the same tergite, and cerci with numerous subequal and slightly curved setae. In addition, the chaetotaxic variation on the tergites, the distribution, the habitat, and the feeding habit of the genus Symphylella are discussed.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

The success story of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in the Philippines (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae), with description of 18 new species
Material collected between 1994 and 2020 in the Philippines, covering most main islands like Luzon, Mindoro, Palawan, Negros, Cebu, Leyte, and Mindanao and some smaller islands, substantially increased our knowledge of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in this archipelago. Only three species were previously reported: L. molawinensis (Müller-Liebenau, 1982) and L. sumigarensis (Müller-Liebenau, 1982) from larvae and L. boettgeri (Ulmer, 1924) from adults. Eighteen new species have been identified using a combination of morphology and genetic distance (COI, Kimura 2-parameter). They are described and illustrated based on their larvae and a key to all species in the Philippines is provided. The total number of Labiobaetis in the Philippines has increased to 21 species. Additional diversity of Labiobaetis based on molecular evidence only is presented as Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) without description. The interspecific K2P distances in the Philippines are between 15% and 27%, the intraspecific distances are usually between 0% and 3%. The total number of Labiobaetis species worldwide is augmented to 144.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Amphibians and reptiles of Parque Nacional da Serra das Lontras: an important center of endemism within the Atlantic Forest in southern Bahia, Brazil
Information gaps about species distribution hamper the evaluation of conservation status and decisions on biodiversity conservation, affecting to a greater extent, areas with high species richness and endemism. In this context, biological inventories are an important tool to fill these gaps by providing data on the composition, richness, and abundance of species in each locality. The Parque Nacional da Serra das Lontras (PNSL) protects various mountain range just up 1000 m. in altitude, and, together with other conservation units, forms an ecological corridor in the southern part of the state of Bahia, within the Atlantic Forest hotspot. We conducted systematic samplings on transects, and opportunistic records in ponds and streams, in order to record amphibian and reptile species in the PNSL. We complement the sampling with the information available in the literature and in scientific collections. A total of 100 species (49 amphibians and 51 reptiles) was recorded, 53 of them endemic to the Atlantic Forest, 13 to the state of Bahia, and two known only from the PNSL. Hylidae was the most diverse family of amphibians (22 spp.) and Colubridae of reptiles (33 spp.). New information on the distribution and natural history of these species is provided, many of which have not yet been assessed by the IUCN while others have already been categorized as at risk of extinction at the regional level. Results confirm the high species richness and rates of endemism in southern Bahia and highlight the importance of protecting high altitude areas for the preservation of evolutionary and ecological processes within the Atlantic Forest.
["Anura"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Recognition and revision of the Phelister blairi group (Histeridae, Histerinae, Exosternini)
Forty-nine new species of Neotropical Exosternini are described in this work, representing the newly recognized Phelister blairi species group, within the large, heterogeneous taxon Phelister. Eight previously described species are also assigned to this group. Relationships within are indicated with several informal subgroups: P. blairi subgroup: (P. blairi Hinton, 1935, P. erwini sp. nov., P. fimbriatus sp. nov., P. stellans sp. nov., P. sparsus sp. nov., P. pretiosus sp. nov., P. trigonisternus Marseul, 1889, P. globosus sp. nov., P. serratus sp. nov., P. geminus sp. nov., P. parana sp. nov., P. asperatus sp. nov., P. uniformis sp. nov., P. miscellus sp. nov., P. inbio sp. nov., P. sculpturatus Schmidt, 1893, P. tunki sp. nov., P. praedatoris Reichensperger, 1939, P. ifficus sp. nov., P. genieri sp. nov., P. marginatus sp. nov., P. vazdemelloi sp. nov., P. dilatatus sp. nov., P. spectabilis sp. nov., P. pervagatus sp. nov.); P. amazoniae subgroup: (P. morbidus sp. nov., P. annulatus sp. nov., P. sphaericus sp. nov., P. geijskesi Kanaar, 1997, P. fraternus sp. nov., P. conjunctus sp. nov., P. chabooae sp. nov., P. striatinotum Wenzel & Dybas, 1941, P. notandus Schmidt, 1893, P. amazoniae (Lewis, 1898) comb. nov., P. arcuatus sp. nov.); P. gregarius subgroup: (P. gregarius sp. nov., P. praecisus sp. nov., P. rudis sp. nov., P. incongruens sp. nov., P. congruens sp. nov., P. praesignis sp. nov.); P. umens subgroup: (P. umens sp. nov., P. almeidae sp. nov., P. chicomendesi sp. nov., P. microdens sp. nov., P. matatlantica sp. nov.); P. curvipes subgroup: (P. curvipes sp. nov., P. vilavelha sp. nov.); P. rio subgroup: (P. rio sp. nov., P. semotus sp. nov., P. uncinatus sp. nov., P. inscriptus sp. nov.); incertae sedis – unplaced to subgroup: (P. incertus sp. nov., P. okeefei sp. nov., P. blairoides sp. nov., P. pirana sp. nov.). Lectotypes are designated for the following species: P. trigonisternus Marseul, P. sculpturatus Schmidt, P. praedatoris Reichensperger, P. notandus Schmidt, and Discoscelis amazoniae Lewis. Preliminary phylogenetic analyses of the broader Neotropical Exosternini do not support the monophyly of the P. blairi group, nor of all of these subgroups, but the majority do fall within one large clade (which is potentially paraphyletic with respect to some other Neotropical exosternine genera). More work on the phylogeny and taxonomy of this diverse fauna is needed.

A new species of the genus Noeetomima Enderlein (Diptera, Lauxaniidae) from Guizhou, China with a key to worldwide species
A species from the Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, China is described as new to science: Noeetomima huzhengkuni sp. nov. A key to separate worldwide species of Noeetomima, and a list of all species in the genus together with type information, is presented. The habitat of the new species is discussed.
["Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve"]

Revision of Japanese species of Nipponomyia Alexander, 1924 (Diptera, Pediciidae)
Japanese species of the genus Nipponomyia Alexander, 1924 are revised. Two new species, Nipponomyia okinawensis Kolcsár & Kato, sp. nov. and N. yakushimensis Kolcsár & Kato, sp. nov. are described from the Ryukyu Islands. Images of habitus and wings, illustrations of male and female terminalia, and distribution maps are provided for the Japanese species. A key to the world species of Nipponomyia is added. DNA barcodes of three Japanese Nipponomyia are provided, representing the first barcodes from the genus.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Four new species of Phrynidius Lacordaire (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae) from Mexico with an identification key for the genus
Since the description of its eight species, the Mesoamerican genus Phrynidius Lacordaire (Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Apomecynini) has not been comprehensively studied, with only a few distributional records published in recent years. In this work, four new species of Phrynidius are described from Chiapas, Mexico: P. cristinae sp. nov. from the municipality of Escuintla, P. diminutus sp. nov. from San Cristobal, Phrynidius jonesi sp. nov. from Trinitaria, and P. tuberculatus sp. nov. from Jaltenango. An updated taxonomic key and illustrations of the new species are also provided.

The first species of the pseudoscorpion genus Lechytia Balzan, 1892 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae) from New Zealand
The subfamily Lechytiinae is reported from New Zealand for the first time. A new species, Lechytia novaezealandiae sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Lake Waikare in Waikato District, North Island. In addition, a key to species in the genus Lechytia from Asia, Australia, and New Zealand is included.
["description"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Three new species of Rugitermes (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae) from Peru and Bolivia
The soldier of Rugitermes aridus sp. nov. is described from a xeric, termite-depauperate region of central Peru. Rugitermes rufus sp. nov. and R. volcanensis sp. nov. are described from soldiers and dealated imagos collected in a mesic forest of Amboró National Park in western Bolivia. The imago of R. rufus is unique among all described Rugitermes species in that the head capsule is reddish orange and the pronotum is brown. The imago head and pronotum are both brown in R. volcanensis. A phylogenetic and GMYC barcode analyses were performed with the COI gene. These analyses confirmed the three new species and revealed a high undescribed diversity of Rugitermes in the New World.
["Ambor\u00f3 National Park"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First checklist of the chrysidid wasps (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae) of Mongolia, with description of new species
An annotated checklist of the Chrysididae from Mongolia is provided. A revision of the bibliographical data is provied, since most of the collecting localities published for “Mongolia” refer to places currently located in China. The known Mongolian cuckoo wasp fauna counts 90 species in 18 genera and two subfamilies. Four genera and 57 species are recorded for the first time, including two species here described as new for science: Cleptes mongolicus Rosa, Halada & Agnoli, sp. nov. (Dornod) and Spinolia spinosa Rosa & Halada, sp. nov. (Bayankhongor).
["Catalogue"]

New species of the genera Bracon Fabricius and Syntomernus Enderlein (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Braconinae) from South Korea
Six new species, Bracon (Bracon) kimchanghyoi sp. nov., B. (B.) yeogisanensis sp. nov., B. (Habrobracon) allevatus sp. nov., B. (Osculobracon) perspicillatus sp. nov., Syntomernus flavus sp. nov., and S. scabrosus sp. nov. are described from South Korea and short keys for their identification are presented. The genus Ficobracon van Achterberg & Weiblen, 2000, syn. nov. is considered a junior synonym of Syntomernus Enderlein, 1920 and new combinations are proposed for Syntomernus asphondyliae (Watanabe, 1940), comb. nov., S. brusi (van Achterberg & Weiblen, 2000), comb. nov., S. codonatus (Huang & van Achterberg, 2013), comb. nov., S. kashmirensis (Maqbool, Akbar & Wachkoo, 2018), comb. nov., S. rhiknosus (Huang & van Achterberg, 2013), comb. nov., S. sunosei (Maeto, 1991), comb. nov. (= Bracon flaccus Papp, 1996, syn. nov.), and S. tamabae (Maeto, 1991), comb. nov.
["Ficobracon"]

Synopsis of the genus Ulomorpha Osten Sacken, 1869 (Diptera, Limoniidae) in Japan
Japanese species of the genus Ulomorpha Osten Sacken, 1869 are revised and U. amamiana Kato & Kolcsár, sp. nov. and U. longipenis Kato & Kolcsár, sp. nov. are described. A key to the four Japanese species of the genus is provided, with images of habitus and wings, and drawings of their male terminalia. Ulomorpha amamiana Kato & Kolcsár, sp. nov. is the first representative of the genus discovered from the Oriental region.
["Crane flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

First discovery of the genus Himalopenetretus (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Patrobini) in China, with description of a new species
The Western Himalayan genus Himalopenetretus is firstly recorded from China, with one new species described, H. burangensis sp. nov. (type locality: Burang county, Xizang).
["Himalaya range"]

Review of the mite genus Krantzolaspina Datta & Bhattacharjee (Mesostigmata, Parholaspididae) with re-description of K. angustatus comb. nov. (Ishikawa) from Indonesia
Herein, we update the diagnosis and description of the genus Krantzolaspina Datta & Bhattacharjee and provide a list of the three valid species including new combinations and synonyms, as follows: 1) Krantzolaspina angustatus (Ishikawa, 1987) comb. nov. (= Indutolaelaps jiroftensis Hajizadeh et al., 2017 syn. nov.), 2) K. rebatii Datta & Bhattacharjee, 1989 and 3) K. solimani (Metwali, 1983) comb. nov. Finally, we re-describe K. angustatus (Ishikawa, 1987) comb. nov. based on the holotype from Japan, voucher specimens from Iran and additional females that we found in soil samples from oil palm plantations in Sumatra, Indonesia.
["Gamasina"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Resin bees of genus Megachile, subgenera Callomegachile and Carinula (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae) from Thailand with description of a new species
Resin bees of the genus Megachile subgenus Callomegachile sensu lato (Hymenoptera; Megachilidae) from Thailand are reviewed. The 14 species treated include those described or revised in the subgenus Alocanthedon, a junior synonym of Callomegachile (three species), and in Carinula (one species). One new species is described, Megachile chiangmaiensis Chatthanabun and Warrit, sp. nov. The replacement name Megachile parornata Chatthanabun, Warrit and Ascher, nom. nov., is proposed for M. gigas Wu (not Schrottky), which is recorded for the first time outside China. For each species, maps and full label data for the examined material documenting occurrences in Thailand are provided. In addition, global ranges, floral associations, and other life history data are summarized and a key to the Thai species is provided for females.
["Apoidea"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Revision of the genus Laophontodes T. Scott (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Ancorabolidae), including the description of a new species and a key to species
The description of Laophontodes volkerlehmanskii sp. nov. (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Laophontodinae Lang) from the deep sea of the Kairei Field, western Indian Ocean, prompted the examination of the phylogenetic status of Laophontodes T. Scott and the relationships within the genus. The allocation of L. volkerlehmanskii sp. nov. to Laophontodes based on diagnostic characters was relatively straightforward, yet phylogenetic analysis of the genus considering 39 morphological characters detected not a single autapomorphy. This indicates that Laophontodes, which seems to form a monophylum with Ancorabolina George and Bicorniphontodes George, Glatzel & Schröder, actually represents the stem-lineage, retaining the characters of the common ancestor without having developed unique derived morphological characters. Most of the 13 known species of Laophontodes can be characterised by distinct apomorphies. However, phylogenetic comparison highlights some uncertainties due to the apparent heterogeneous distribution of some derived characters across the species, the weakness of other features, and the fragmentary and inadequate description of several species, which, in combination with the unavailability of type material, prevents a detailed comparison of several phylogenetically relevant characters. Thus, the analysis presented here provides a further step towards understanding the systematic relationships of and within Laophontodes, rather than a conclusive answer. Nonetheless, a detailed character discussion and a key to species are given.

Parahiraciini (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae): one new genus, two new species and three new subtribes
A new genus Pusulissus gen. nov. with two new species P. phiaoacensis sp. nov. and P. coronomensis sp. nov. are described respectively from Vietnam and China in the tribe Parahiraciini of the family Issidae. A molecular phylogeny using combined genes (18S, 28S, COX1 and Cytb) confirms its placement in the tribe Parahiraciini. The tribe is divided into three subtribes: Scantiniina subtribe nov. with the type genus Scantinius Stål, 1866, and Vindilisina subtribe nov. with type genus Vindilis Stål, 1870 plus Nisoprincessa Gnezdilov, 2017, and the nominal subtribe Parahiraciina Cheng & Yang, 1991 subtribe nov. The characteristics of these subtribes are provided, with a key to identification. Genus Folifemurum Che, Zhang & Wang, 2013 is transferred to Hemisphaeriini Mongolianina, and genus Gelastyrella Yang, 1994 is maintained as a valid name.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis"]

A new species of the genus Henricia (Asteroidea, Spinulosida, Echinasteridae) from South Korea
A new species of the genus Henricia Gray, 1840 that belongs to the family Echinasteridae is described from South Korea. Henricia epiphysialis sp. nov. has epiphyseal ossicles at the ends of the abactinal and lateral plates, and the abactinal and lateral spines form a hooked crown. The partial sequence of the mitochondrial COXI gene (537 bp) of H. epiphysialis sp. nov. was obtained, and the new species was morphologically and genetically compared with other related Henricia species.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Descriptions of four new dextral land snails of the genus Camaena (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Camaenidae) from south China
In this study, four new dextral camaenid from China are reported, based on shell morphology, reproductive system anatomy, and molecular phylogenetic analyses: Camaena funingensis Zhou, Wang & Lin, sp. nov., Camaena gaolongensis Zhou, Wang & Lin, sp. nov., Camaena maguanensis Zhou, Wang & Hu, sp. nov., and Camaena yulinensis Zhou, Wang & Hu, sp. nov. Detailed descriptions of the morphological characteristics including shells and genitalia, DNA sequences, and living environments of the four new species are provided, with further comparisons with congeners.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Helminth infection and control"]

A report of a new species and new record of Cadlina (Nudibranchia, Cadlinidae) from South Korea
Of the four species in the genus Cadlina present in the northwestern Pacific region, C. japonica has been the only species recorded from South Korea. For the purpose of investigating Cadlina in Korean waters, specimens were collected from the Korean East Sea (Sea of Japan) by scuba diving. The radula and morphology of these specimens were examined by stereoscopic and scanning electron microscopy. Based on morphology, three species were identified in Korean waters, including the new species, Cadlina koreana sp. nov., C. umiushi (first record in South Korea), and C. japonica. Cadlina koreana sp. nov. somewhat resembles C. umiushi but differs in both its morphology as well as the structure of its radula. The background color of Cadlina koreana sp. nov. is translucent white, tubercles on the dorsum are opaque white and the yellow marginal band is absent. The radular formula of Cadlina koreana sp. nov. is 57 × 23.1.23 with a rectangular rachidian tooth. In addition, mitochondrial cytochrome c subunit 1 (COI), 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA), and nuclear 28S ribosomal RNA (28S rRNA) gene sequences were generated and used for analysis of Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD) and reconstruction of the phylogenetic tree. Morphological distinction and genetic analyses confirm that three Cadlina species are present in Korean waters of which Cadlina koreana is a new species.
["Cadlina koreana sp. nov."]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

First record of the genus Trispinaria Quicke, 1986 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Braconinae) in Vietnam, with descriptions of two new species
Two new species of the genus Trispinaria Quicke, 1986, from Vietnam, viz. T. seminigra Long, sp. nov. and T. vietnamica Long, sp. nov., are described and fully illustrated. Additionally, this is the first record of the genus Trispinaria in Vietnam. A checklist with distributions of previously described species of the genus Trispinaria is given. Comparative characters of the Vietnamese species are provided and modified key couplets are provided to facilitate their identification.
["Australasian region"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new micropolydesmoid millipede of the genus Eutrichodesmus Silvestri, 1910 from Cambodia, with a key to species in mainland Southeast Asia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Haplodesmidae)
The micropolydesmoid millipede family Haplodesmidae is here recorded from Cambodia for the first time through the discovery of the first, new species of the genus Eutrichodesmus Silvestri, 1910: E. cambodiensis sp. nov. This new species is described from two limestone habitats in Kampot Province, based on abundant material. It is easily distinguished from all related congeners by the following combination of characters: body greyish-brown; limbus roundly lobulate; solenomere partially divided from acropodite by a digitiform lobe, but without hairpad. Brief remarks on the previously-proposed “pecularis-group” are provided and a second group, the “demangei-group”, is established and discussed on the basis of morphological evidence, updating the number of recognised species groups of Eutrichodesmus to two. Detailed morphological illustrations, photographs and a distribution map, as well as remarks on its habitat and mating behaviour of the new species are presented. Furthermore, the current distributions of all 55 presently-known species of Eutrichodesmus are provided and a key to all 23 species that occur in mainland Southeast Asia is given.
["Karst"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

Two new species and distribution records for the genus Bohayella Belokobylskij, 1987 from Costa Rica (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Cardiochilinae)
Two new species of Bohayella Belokobylskij, 1987 from Costa Rica are described: Bohayella geraldinae Kang, sp. nov. and Bohayella hansoni Kang, sp. nov. These are new distribution records for the genus in the Neotropical region. In addition, a key to species of the genus Bohayella of Costa Rica is presented. The current work elevates the number of species included in Bohayella from nine to eleven.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Psammonitocrella Huys, 2009 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Ameiridae) from California (USA), with a discussion of the relationship between Psammonitocrella and Parastenocarididae
The freshwater harpacticoid Psammonitocrella kumeyaayi sp. nov. from the Nearctic Region (California; USA) is proposed. The position of the genus within Harpacticoida and its relationship with the Parastenocarididae is discussed. The new species can be included within Psammonitocrella on account of a) the cylindrical furca, longer than the telson, b) the unmodified inner spine on the basis of the male first leg, c) loss of the outer spine on the second exopodal segment of the first leg, d) loss of the outer spine of the third exopodal segment of the second, third, and fourth legs, e) loss of the inner apical seta on the third exopodal segment of the second and third legs, f) transformation of the inner apical seta of the third exopodal segment of the fourth leg into a spine, and g) loss of the endopodite of the fourth leg. The new species differs remarkably from P. boultoni, and P. longifurcata in the loss of the outer spine of the second exopodal segment of the fourth leg, in the presence of a one-segmented fifth leg exopodite, and in the presence of an outer seta on the basis of the first and second legs. Both Psammonitocrella and the known species of Parastenocarididae have a one-segmented endopod on the fourth leg, and the endopods of the second and third legs are reduced to one or two segments. Psammonitocrella is currently allocated into the Ameiridae, and evidence suggesting a sister-group relationship with Parastenocarididae—both share the loss of the inner seta on the first endopodal segment of the first leg—indicates that the Parastenocarididae should be included into the Ameiridae. In an evolutionary context, Parastenocarididae could have evolved from a lineage of freshwater ameirids that became interstitial in continental waters and colonized aquifers and groundwaters.
["fresh water"]

Phyllocnistis furcata sp. nov.: a new species of leaf-miner associated with Baccharis (Asteraceae) from Southern Peru (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae)
The southwestern Andes of Peru harbors a hidden taxonomic diversity of Lepidoptera. Here a new leaf-mining species of Gracillariidae (Lepidoptera) is described, Phyllocnistis furcata Vargas & Cerdeña, sp. nov., from a dry Andean valley of southern Peru, at 2400 m above sea level. The morphological aspects of adults (male and female) and the immature stages associated with Baccharis alnifolia Meyen & Walp. (Asteraceae) are given, under optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. DNA barcodes show that its nearest neighbor is the Atlantic Forest species Phyllocnistis ourea Brito & Moreira, 2017 that feeds on Baccharis anomala DC. The importance of morphological characters from immature stages for diagnosis among congeneric species is also discussed. Phyllocnistis furcata represents the fourth species of Phyllocnistis Zeller for Peru, and first record from the south of Peru for the genus.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

East Asian Cryphalus Erichson (Curculionidae, Scolytinae): new species, new synonymy and redescriptions of species
Cryphalus Erichson, 1836 is a taxonomically challenging genus. It is particularly speciose in Asia. Many species are minor pests of fruit tree crops and forest products. We review collections from East Asia, using external morphology, internal morphology and genetic markers with a focus on sub-tropical species from fruit trees. Four new species are described; Cryphalus gnetivorus Johnson, sp. nov., C. itinerans Johnson, sp. nov., C. morivorus Johnson, sp. nov., and C. paramangiferae Johnson, sp. nov. Ten species are redescribed to enable accurate identification: C. artocarpus (Schedl, 1939), C. dilutus Eichhoff, 1878, C. dorsalis (Motschulsky, 1866), C. exiguus Blandford, 1894, C. kyotoensis Nobuchi, 1966, C. lipingensis Tsai & Li, 1963 (= C. kesiyae Browne, 1975, syn. nov.), C. mangiferae Stebbing, 1914 (= C. artestriatus Browne, 1970, syn. nov.), C. meridionalis (Nobuchi, 1975), C. scopiger Berger, 1917, and C. viburni Stark, 1936. Additional records from new localities and new hosts are also presented.
["Bark beetle"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Two new Leptobrachella species (Anura, Megophryidae) from the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, southwestern China
Two new toad species of the genus Leptobrachella are described from the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau of China, based on the combination of molecular and morphological data. The description of Leptobrachella aspera Wang, Lyu, Qi & Wang, sp. nov. from Huanglianshan Nature Reserve represents the thirteenth Leptobrachella species known from Yunnan Province, and the description of Leptobrachella dorsospina Wang, Lyu, Qi & Wang, sp. nov. from Yushe Forest Park represents the sixth Leptobrachella species known from Guizhou Province. These new discoveries further emphasize the extremely high diversity of the Leptobrachella toads in these regions.
["Leptobrachella aspera sp. nov."]

Phylogeny and biogeography of Sumatra´s cloud forest lizards of the genus Dendragama and status of Acanthosaura schneideri
Lizards of the genus Dendragama are endemic to the highland cloud forests of Sumatra’s Barisan Mountain Range in western Indonesia, and recent studies have uncovered widespread diversity within the genus. Here, a suite of morphological characters and mitochondrial DNA are used to compare three geographically isolated populations of D. boulengeri from (1) Mount Kerinci in Jambi province, (2) Mount Marapi of west Sumatra, and (3) the Karo Highlands of north Sumatra. Additional phylogeographic analyses with two recently described sister species, D. australis and D. dioidema were conducted. Five genetically distinct clades of Dendragama, all distributed allopatrically of one another were identified and some are suspected to inhabit small distributions. Morphological and genetic data confirm the Karo Highlands population D. schneideri (previously Acanthosaura schneideri Ahl, 1926) should be revalidated from the synonymy of D. boulengeri. Dendragama schneideri is endemic to montane forests of the Karo Highlands surrounding Lake Toba in Sumatra Utara province. Pairwise genetic distances of 6–11% separate D. schneideri from congeners. Two distinct clades of D. boulengeri from Mount Kerinci and Mount Marapi were identified, which are 5.0% genetically distant from one another. Using morphological characters, we provide the first key for distinguishing between species of Dendragama. Based on biogeographic patterns and levels of genetic variation it is suspected that at least 18 other isolated cloud forest locations may hold new species or divergent populations of Dendragama but lack survey work. Collectively, these comparisons among populations of montane lizards further elucidate the complex biogeographic history of Sumatra’s montane forest species and the first phylogeny of the genus Dendragama.
["Barisan Range"]

Taxonomic study of the genus Unkanodes (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Delphacidae) from Pakistan, with description of a new species
Unkanodes (Kwonianella) malamjabbensis sp. nov. (Hemiptera, Delphacidae) is described and illustrated and U. latespinosa (Dlabola, 1957) is newly recorded from Malamjabbah, Swat, Pakistan. These two species represent the first records of the genus Unkanodes Fennah, 1956 from Pakistan. A key to the world’s species of the genus Unkanodes is provided.

Reidentification of Decapterus macarellus and D. macrosoma (Carangidae) reveals inconsistencies with current morphological taxonomy in China
Decapterus macarellus and D. macrosoma are economically important pelagic fish species that are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical seas. The two species are often mistakenly identified due to their morphological similarities as described in the Chinese literature on fish identification. In this study, D. macarellus and D. macrosoma samples were collected in the Eastern Indian Ocean and the South China Sea and reidentified using morphological and DNA barcoding techniques. The characteristics that distinguish the two species primarily include the scute coverage of the straight portion of the lateral line (the most indicative characteristic for classification), the shape of the predorsal scaled area and its location relative to the middle axis of the eye, and the shapes of the posterior margin of the maxilla and the posterior margin of the operculum. The results revealed a large number of misidentified sequences among the homologous cytochrome oxidase (COI) sequences of the two species in the NCBI database and that the genus Decapterus may include cryptic species. In terms of genetic structure, the Sundaland has not blocked genetic exchange between D. macarellus populations in the South China Sea and the Eastern Indian Ocean, giving rise to a high level of genetic diversity. In this study, we made corrections to the Chinese classification standards for D. macarellus and D. macrosoma and the erroneous reference sequences in the NCBI database, thereby providing accurate reference points for the future exploration of cryptic species in the genus Decapterus.
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Revision of the freshwater crabs of the Johora tahanensis (Bott, 1966) species group (Crustacea, Brachyura, Potamidae), with a key to the genus
The taxonomy of the potamid freshwater crabs of the Johora tahanensis (Bott, 1966) species group (Potamoidea) is revised. Seven species are recognised, all from Peninsular Malaysia and southern Thailand, three of which are described as new. The three new species were previously identified as J. tahanensis but can be distinguished by characters of the carapace, male first gonopod, and vulva. A revised key to the 18 recognised species of Johora Bott, 1966, is provided.
["Freshwater crab"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Stigmatopora harastii, a new species of pipefish in facultative associations with finger sponges and red algae from New South Wales, Australia (Teleostei, Syngnathidae)
A new species of pipefish, Stigmatopora harastii sp. nov., is described based on the male holotype and two female paratypes, 136.3–145.5 mm SL, collected from red algae (sp.?) at 12 meters depth in Botany Bay, New South Wales (NSW), Australia. The new taxon shares morphological synapomorphies with the previously described members of Stigmatopora, including principle body ridges, fin placement, slender tail, and absence of a caudal fin. It is morphologically and meristically similar to Stigmatopora nigra, including snout length and shape, dorsal-fin origin on 6th–7th trunk ring, and lateral trunk ridge terminating on the first tail ring. Stigmatopora harastii sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners, however, by characters of the head and first trunk ring, distinct sexual dimorphic markings on sides and venter of anterior trunk rings, and red background coloration in life. The new taxon can be further differentiated by genetic divergence in the mitochondrial COI gene (uncorrected p-distances of 9.8%, 10.1%, 10.7%, and 14.6%, from S. argus, S. macropterygia, S. narinosa, and S. nigra, respectively). The type locality is characterised by semi-exposed deep-water sandy areas interspersed with boulders, flat reefs, and an absence of seagrass beds, in which S. harastii has been observed living in facultative associations with a finger sponge and red algae at depths of 10–25 meters, compared to the shallow coastal and estuarine habitats preferred by the fucoid algae and seagrass-associating members of Stigmatopora. Stigmatopora harastii sp. nov. represents the fourth species of Stigmatopora recorded in temperate southern Australia.
["Botany Bay"]
["Aquatic life and conservation", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

The bees of the family Halictidae (Hymenoptera) described by Ferdinand Morawitz from the collection of Aleksey Fedtschenko
The type specimens of the family Halictidae, described by Ferdinand Morawitz from the collection of Aleksey Fedtschenko deposited in the Zoological Museum of the Moscow State University and in the Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg (Russia), are critically reviewed. Precise information with illustrations of types for 43 taxa is provided. Lectotypes are here designated for the following seven nominal taxa: Halictus aprilinus Morawitz, 1876, H. cingulatus Morawitz, 1876, H. laevinodis Morawitz, 1876, H. limbellus Morawitz, 1876, H. nasica Morawitz, 1876, H. rhynchites Morawitz, 1876 and H. vulgaris Morawitz, 1876.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Hidden in plain sight: a new frog species of the genus Blommersia from the oceanic island of Mayotte, Comoros archipelago
The amphibian fauna of the western Indian ocean volcanic island of Mayotte is currently constituted by two species belonging to two genera of the anuran family Mantellidae: Blommersia transmarina and Boophis nauticus. These were recently described after intense fieldwork on the herpetofauna of the island. We here describe a third new species of frog from Mayotte, based on morphological and molecular data, that occurs in sympatry with the others and was utterly unnoticed until now. Genetic analyses of the16S rRNA gene, including all described and several undescribed species of the genus Blommersia from Madagascar and Mayotte, confirms that the new species is the sister species of Blommersia transmarina. Both species show apparent morphological differences as well as different life histories, ecology and genetics that confirm Blommersia nataliae sp. nov. as a new species. We propose an IUCN Red List status of Critically Endangered for B. nataliae sp. nov.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Aquaculture disease management and microbiota"]

A new species of Pristimantis (Amphibia, Anura, Strabomantidae) from the Pui Pui Protected Forest (central Peru), with comments on Pristimantis albertus Duellman & Hedges, 2007
We describe a new Pristimantis species from the eastern Andes, Región Junín, Peru following an integrative taxonomic approach. The description is based on three adult males (snout-vent length 25.7–28.8 mm) collected in two montane forests between 1615 and 1800 m a.s.l. in the Pui Pui Protected Forest and its close surroundings. The new species is mainly characterised by absence of tympanum, presence of inner tarsal fold, broad horizontal red band across iris, ventre mottled black and cream and ventral surfaces of thighs salmon and grey mottled. Amongst the Amazonian and montane forest Pristimantis that have the ventre and groin contrastingly black and cream mottled, P. sinschi sp. nov. is morphologically most similar to P. lindae and P. ventrimarmoratus. However, DNA barcoding revealed a clear distinction between these three species and placed P. sinschi sp. nov. as sister taxon of P. lindae. We designate a lectotype for P. ventrimarmoratus and restrict the type locality of this species to “El Topo, R. Pastaza, [Provincia Tungurahua,] E. Ecuador, 4200 feet”. Pristimantis albertus and P. sagittulus are recorded for the first time in the Región Junín. Additional data on morphology and systematics are provided for P. albertus.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Revision of Chinese Phorocardius species (Coleoptera, Elateridae, Cardiophorinae)
The Chinese species of Phorocardius Fleutiaux, 1931 have been studied and six species are described as new: P. alterlineatus Ruan & Douglas, sp. nov.; P. flavistriolatus Ruan & Douglas, sp. nov.; P. minutus Ruan & Douglas, sp. nov.; P. rufiposterus Ruan & Douglas, sp. nov.; P. yunnanensis Ruan & Douglas, sp. nov.; and P. zhiweii Ruan, Douglas & Qiu, sp. nov. Lectotypes are designated for Cardiophorus comptus Candèze, 1860, Cardiophorus contemptus Candèze, 1860, Phorocardius magnus Fleutiaux, 1931, and Cardiophorus manuleatus Candèze, 1888. The holotype is identified for Cardiophorus yanagiharae Miwa, 1927. Phorocardius florentini (Fleutiaux, 1895) and P. manuleatus (Candèze, 1888) are newly reported from China; P. comptus (Candèze, 1860) is excluded from the Chinese fauna. A key to the 11 Phorocardius species known from China is given. Phorocardius is newly recorded from deep within the Palearctic Region. The procoxal cavities of P. rufiposterus Ruan & Douglas, sp. nov. are closed, which is different from all other species of Phorocardius. An annotated checklist of the 21 Phorocardius species of the world is provided. Additionally, Phorocardius contemptus (Candèze, 1860), comb. nov. is transferred from Cardiophorus to Phorocardius; four species are transferred from Phorocardius to Displatynychus: Displatynychus bombycinus (Candèze, 1895), comb. nov., Displatynychus pakistanicus (Platia & Ahmed, 2016), comb. nov., Displatynychus sobrinus (Laporte, 1840), comb. nov., and Displatynychus tibialis (Platia & Ahmed, 2016), comb. nov.
["Cardiophorus"]

Three new species of frogs of the genus Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) with a redefinition of the P. lacrimosus species group
A new phylogeny for the Pristimantis lacrimosus species group is presented, its species content reviewed, and three new species described from the eastern slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes. Our phylogeny includes, for the first time, samples of P. aureolineatus, P. bromeliaceus, and P. lacrimosus. The morphology of hyperdistal subarticular tubercles is also assessed among 21 species of Pristimantis. The P. lacrimosus species group is composed of 36 species distributed in the Chocó, Guiana, and Amazon regions of tropical South America with a single species reaching Central America. Ancestral area reconstruction indicates that, despite its high diversity in the Amazon region, the P. lacrimosus group originated in the Pacific basin, Chocó region of Ecuador and Colombia. Pristimantis amaguanae sp. nov. is most closely related to P. bromeliaceus. It differs from P. bromeliaceus by being smaller, having transversal dark bands in the hindlimbs (absent or faint in P. bromeliaceus) and the absence of discoidal fold (present in P. bromeliaceus). Pristimantis nankints sp. nov. and P. romeroae sp. nov. are part of a clade of predominantly light-green frogs that includes P. acuminatus, P. enigmaticus, P. limoncochensis, and P. omeviridis. Pristimantis nankints sp. nov. and P. romeroae sp. nov. can be distinguished from all of them by the presence of a dark dorsolateral stripe that borders a light green band on a green background. Hyperdistal tubercles are present in all examined species of the P. lacrimosus species group and its sister clade. Species with hyperdistal tubercles are characterized by having relatively long terminal phalanges and narrow T-shaped expansion at the end of the terminal phalange. We discuss the phylogenetic distribution of these characters and their potential diagnostic significance.
["Amazon"]

Taxonomic study of the genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 from Myanmar (Araneae, Oonopidae)
Seven new species of the genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 from the spider family Oonopidae Simon, 1890 are reported from Myanmar: I. hponkanrazi sp. nov. (♀), I. jianglangi sp. nov. (♀), I. meukyawwa sp. nov. (♂♀), I. putao sp. nov. (♀), I. qiuxing sp. nov. (♀), I. taunggyi sp. nov. (♂♀) and I. zhigangi sp. nov. (♂♀). Morphological descriptions and photographic illustrations of the new species are given. All types are preserved in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS).
["Goblin spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Three new species of Diplotaxis Kirby from Guatemala and Mexico (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae), with a key to the species of the trapezifera group
Three new species of Diplotaxis Kirby are described and illustrated, D. balam sp. nov. from Guatemala, and D. chiapasensis sp. nov. and D. complanatis sp. nov. from Mexico. The new species have a flattened body and are included in the trapezifera species group. An updated key to the trapezifera species group is given.
["Cloud forests"]

A new species of Trachelas L. Koch, 1872 (Araneae, Trachelidae) from Tajikistan
A new species of trachelid spiders, Trachelas crewsae sp. nov. is described from south-western Tajikistan based on both sexes. The new species is closely related to T. vulcani Simon, 1896 from South-East Asia but differs in the conformation of the copulatory organs and color pattern.

Four new Cyclopina (Copepoda, Cyclopinidae) from South Korea
Copepods are well studied in South Korea, with the exception of marine non-parasitic cyclopoids, and especially cyclopinids; only three species were found so far here, and only one of them is endemic. A survey of intertidal interstitial faunas from sandy beaches revealed four endemic members of the genus Cyclopina Claus, 1863, which represents the first record of the largest cyclopinid genus in South Korea. A detailed study of their morphology revealed numerous differences, including in rarely studied cuticular organs. Some of these micro-characters could easily be homologised and showed little intraspecific variability, which might prove invaluable for matching sexes and reconstructing phylogenetic relationships. Cyclopina busanensis sp. nov. is described from both sexes collected near Busan (South Coast of South Korea), and is most similar to the only congener from Japan: C. kiraensis Horomi, 1984. Cyclopina koreana sp. nov. is described from both sexes collected near Gangneung (East Coast), and has no close relatives among currently known species. Cyclopina curtijeju sp. nov. is described from two females from Jeju (off South Coast); it is possibly closely related to C. smirnovi Herbst, 1982, but the latter is known from a single male from the Russian Far East. Cyclopina wido sp. nov. is described from both sexes from Wido (West Coast), and shows numerous reductions in segmentation and armature of appendages, most of them probably a consequence of its diminutive size. A table of 26 discrete and continuous characters commonly used in the taxonomy of this group is provided for 48 valid species and subspecies of Cyclopina.
["Cyclopoida"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Monopis jussii, a new species (Lepidoptera, Tineidae) inhabiting nests of the Boreal owl (Aegolius funereus)
Monopis jussii Kaila, Mutanen, Huemer, Karsholt & Autto, sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Tineidae) is described as a new species. It is closely related to the widespread and common M. laevigella ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775), but differs in its distinct COI DNA barcode sequences, four examined nuclear loci as well as details in forewing coloration and pattern. Most reared specimens of M. jussii have emerged from the nest remnants of the Boreal owl (Aegolius funereus (Linnaeus, 1758)), but also nests of the Ural owl (Strix uralensis Pallas, 1771) and the Great tit (Parus major Linnaeus, 1758) have been observed as suitable habitats. Based on the present knowledge, the new species has a boreo-montane distribution as it is recorded only from northern Europe and the Alps. Several extensive rearing experiments from Strix spp. nest remnants from southern Finland did not produce any M. jussii, but thousands of M. laevigella, suggesting that the species is lacking in the area or, more unlikely, that the nest of these owl species do not serve as good habitat for the new species. This unexpected species discovery highlights, once again, the usefulness of DNA barcoding in revealing the cryptic layers of biodiversity. To serve stability we select a neotype for Tinea laevigella [Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775, and discuss the complicated synonymy and nomenclature of this species.
["boreo-montane"]

Contribution to the knowledge of Neanurinae of north-western Iran with description of seven new species (Collembola, Neanuridae)
Seven new species of the subfamily Neanurinae from north-western Iran are described and illustrated in detail. Endonura agnieskae sp. nov. differs from the most similar congener, E. reticulata (Axelson, 1905), in chaetotaxic details and the arrangement of tubercles on the dorsal side of the body. Endonura annae sp. nov. can be easily recognised by its wide labrum, the absence of chaetae C on the head and the presence of a toothed claw. Endonura schwendingeri sp. nov. is especially distinctive due to the absence of chaetae A and Ocp on the head and the presence of the male ventral organ. Deutonura breviseta sp. nov. is related and most similar to D. persica Smolis, Shayanmehr & Yoosefi-Lafooraki, 2018, described recently and known from Mazandran Province in Iran. The new species can be easily distinguished by the following set of features: dark pigmented body, presence of chaetae C and Dl3 on the head, absence of microchaetae on the furca rudimentary, presence of thickened macrochaetae on dorsal side of body and absence of cryptopygy. The main characteristics of Deutonura sengleti sp. nov. include a white body with dark pigmented eyes, the fusion of tubercles Di and De on the first thoracic segment and the presence of the male ventral organ. Deutonura iranica sp. nov. is superficially similar to D. gibbosa Porco, Bedos & Deharveng, 2010, a species known from the Alps and Jura in Europe, but it differs in the body colour and the number of labial chaetae and chaetae (L+So) on the head. Paravietnura rostrata sp. nov., the first member of this enigmatic and intriguing genus known from Iran, is characterised by an unusually elongate ogival labrum and extreme reduction of dorsal chaetotaxy. Furthermore, new records of several other species of the subfamily: Cryptonura maxima Smolis, Falahati & Skarżyński, 2012; C. persica Smolis, Falahati & Skarżyński, 2012; Deutonura persica; Endonura longirostris Smolis, Shayanmehr, Kuznetsova & Yoosefi-Lafooraki, 2017; E. paracentaurea Smolis, Shayanmehr, Kuznetsova & Yoosefi-Lafooraki, 2017; Neanura deharvengi Smolis, Shayanmehr & Yoosefi-Lafooraki, 2018; N. muscorum (Templeton, 1835) and Protanura papillata Cassagnau & Delamare Deboutteville, 1955 are given. The present study is based on the rich material collected by Antoine Senglet and loaned by Peter J. Schwendinger.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

Redescription of Stenothyra glabra A. Adam, 1861 (Truncatelloidea, Stenothyridae), with the first complete mitochondrial genome in the family Stenothyridae
In this study, Stenothyra glabra belonging to the truncatelloid family Stenothyridae is redescribed using morphological characters from the shell, operculum, and radula. The species is distinguished from other species in the group by its shell without spotted spiral lines and by its dome-shaped, mostly smooth, protoconch with some pits. Together with the morphological description, the complete mitogenome for the species is provided, which fill a knowledge gap in Stenothyridae. The mitogenome of S. glabra is 15,830 bp in length and has a circular structure. It contains 37 genes: 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), and 13 protein-encoding genes (PCGs). The overall A+T content of the mitogenome is 68.9%. Molecular phylogenetic analysis and COI sequence divergence separate S. glabra from its congeners and show that S. glabra and S. cf. divalis form a sister clade.
["Micromollusks"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Hidden in plain sight: two co-occurring cryptic species of Supplanaxis in the Caribbean (Cerithioidea, Planaxidae)
The cerithioid Supplanaxis nucleus (Bruguière, 1789) is widespread in the Caribbean, where it lives in often dense aggregates on hard surfaces in the middle-high intertidal. Molecular evidence shows that it comprises two species that are in fact morphologically diagnosable. We fix the nomenclature of Supplanaxis nucleus by designating a sequenced neotype from Bruguière’s historical locality of Barbados, and identify the second, cryptic species as S. nancyae (Petuch, 2013). The two live syntopically across the Caribbean and form a closely related species group with the Panamic S. planicostatus (G.B. Sowerby I, 1825). Planaxis nucleola Mörch, 1876, described from St Croix, in the Virgin Islands, never again recorded in the literature but listed as a synonym of S. nucleus in taxonomic authority lists, is recognized as a valid species of Hinea Gray, 1847. Proplanaxis Thiele, 1929 and Supplanaxis Thiele, 1929, are synonyms and the latter is given precedence over the former.
["distribution"]

Morphology-based taxonomic re-assessment of the Arctic lamprey, Lethenteron camtschaticum (Tilesius, 1811) and taxonomic position of other members of the genus
The lamprey genus Lethenteron Creaser & Hubbs, 1922 is widespread across Eurasia and North America, but the number and distribution of its constituent species is not firmly established. After a morphological examination of extant type material of the currently recognized species and their synonyms, Lethenteron mitsukurii (Hatta, 1901) is resurrected with Le. matsubarai Vladykov & Kott, 1978 as its junior synonym. Amongst nonparasitic species Le. reissneri (Dybowski, 1869) and Le. mitsukurii are confirmed as present in Japan and the former is also present on Sakhalin. An in-depth study of large samples of nonparasitic lamprey adults from Japan and Sakhalin Island is needed to determine whether the lower trunk myomere (< 66) individuals from these areas represent one or more undescribed species, or Le. mitsukurii, or Le. reissneri, or a mixture of these three alternatives. The material from the Anadyr Estuary identified by Berg (1931, 1948) as Lampetra japonica kessleri has been re-identified as Le. camtschaticum and there is no evidence that Le. kessleri occurs there. Lethenteron reissneri is reported from the Angara River system, Yenisei River drainage, Russia. Lethenteron alaskense Vladykov & Kott, 1978 is provisionally considered to be a junior synonym of Le. kessleri (Anikin, 1905). Petromyzon ernstii Dybowski, 1872, Ammocoetes aureus Bean, 1881, Petromyzon dentex Anikin, 1905, Lampetra mitsukurii major Hatta, 1911, and Lampetra japonica septentrionalis Berg, 1931 are junior synonyms of Petromyzon marinus camtschaticus Tilesius, 1811. A key is provided to adults of the six species recognized as belonging in the genus Lethenteron.
["Arctic lamprey"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Redescription of Pseudopoda taibaischana (Araneae, Sparassidae), with the first description of the female
Pseudopoda taibaischana Jäger, 2001 (Sparassidae) is redescribed based on new material from the type locality in Taibaishan Nation Forest Park of Shaanxi Province, China. The female is described and illustrated for the first time, and a redescription is provided for the male.

Description of a new species of Aleuroclava Singh, 1931 (Hemiptera, Aleyrodidae) infesting Schima superba from China
A new whitefly species, Aleuroclava schimae Wang, sp. nov. infesting leaves of Schima superba (Parietales, Theaceae) is described and illustrated from Zhejiang, China. Puparia of the new species are elliptical, broad at the transverse molting suture region and broadly truncate posteriorly. Thoracic and caudal tracheal pores are discernible. In life, the puparia are covered by a thin layer of white wax.
["Aleuroclava schimae sp. nov."]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Integrative taxonomy and analysis of species richness patterns of nocturnal Darwin wasps of the genus Enicospilus Stephens (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ophioninae) in Japan
The predominantly tropical ophionine genus Enicospilus Stephens, 1835 is one of the largest genera of Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae), with more than 700 extant species worldwide that are usually crepuscular or nocturnal and are parasitoids of Lepidoptera larvae. In the present study, the Japanese species of Enicospilus are revised using an integrative approach (combined morphology and DNA barcoding). On the basis of 3,110 specimens, 47 Enicospilus species are recognised in Japan, eight of which are new species (E. acutus Shimizu, sp. nov., E. kunigamiensis Shimizu, sp. nov., E. limnophilus Shimizu, sp. nov., E. matsumurai Shimizu, sp. nov., E. pseudopuncticulatus Shimizu, sp. nov., E. sharkeyi Shimizu, sp. nov., E. takakuwai Shimizu, sp. nov., and E. unctus Shimizu, sp. nov.), seven are new records from Japan (E. jilinensis Tang, 1990, E. laqueatus (Enderlein, 1921), E. multidens Chiu, 1954, stat. rev., E. puncticulatus Tang, 1990, E. stenophleps Cushman, 1937, E. vestigator (Smith, 1858), and E. zeugos Chiu, 1954, stat. rev.), 32 had already been recorded in Japan; three (E. biharensis Townes, Townes & Gupta, 1961, E. flavicaput (Morley, 1912), and E. merdarius (Gravenhorst, 1829)) have been erroneously recorded from Japan based on misidentifications, and four names that were previously on the Japanese list are deleted through synonymy. The following taxonomic changes are proposed: E. vacuus Gauld & Mitchell, 1981, syn. nov. (= E. formosensis (Uchida, 1928)); E. multidens stat. rev.; E. striatus Cameron, 1899, syn. nov. = E. lineolatus (Roman, 1913), syn. nov. = E. uniformis Chiu, 1954, syn. nov. = E. flatus Chiu, 1954, syn. nov. = E. gussakovskii Viktorov, 1957, syn. nov. = E. striolatus Townes, Townes & Gupta, 1961, syn. nov. = E. unicornis Rao & Nikam, 1969, syn. nov. = E. unicornis Rao & Nikam, 1970, syn. nov. (= E. pungens (Smith, 1874)); E. iracundus Chiu, 1954, syn. nov. (= E. sakaguchii (Matsumura & Uchida, 1926)); E. sigmatoides Chiu, 1954, syn. nov. (= E. shikokuensis (Uchida, 1928)); E. yamanakai (Uchida, 1930), syn. nov. (= E. shinkanus (Uchida, 1928)); E. ranunculus Chiu, 1954, syn. nov. (= E. yezoensis (Uchida, 1928)); and E. zeugos stat. rev. = E. henrytownesi Chao & Tang, 1991, syn. nov. In addition, the following new regional and country records are also provided: E. flavocephalus (Kirby, 1900), E. puncticulatus, and E. vestigator from the Eastern Palaearctic region, E. laqueatus from the Eastern Palaearctic and Oceanic regions, and E. maruyamanus (Uchida, 1928) from the Oriental region; E. abdominalis (Szépligeti, 1906) from Nepal, E. flavocephalus from Laos, E. formosensis from Laos and Malaysia, E. insinuator (Smith, 1860) from Taiwan, E. maruyamanus from India and Philippines, E. nigronotatus Cameron, 1903, E. riukiuensis (Matsumura & Uchida, 1926), and E. sakaguchii from Indonesia, E. pungens from 14 countries (Australia, Bhutan, Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, and Taiwan), and E. yezoensis from South Korea. An identification key to all Japanese species of Enicospilus is proposed. Although 47 species are recognised in the present study, approximately 55 species could potentially be found in Japan based on ACE and Chao 1 estimators. The latitudinal diversity gradient of Enicospilus species richness is also tested in the Japanese archipelago based on the constructed robust taxonomic framework and extensive samples. Enicospilus species richness significantly increases towards the south, contrary to the ‘anomalous’ pattern of some other ichneumonid subfamilies.

A taxonomic revision of the whitefish of lakes Brienz and Thun, Switzerland, with descriptions of four new species (Teleostei, Coregonidae)
The alpha taxonomy of the endemic whitefish of lakes Brienz and Thun, Switzerland, is revised. We evaluate the status of seven known species: Coregonus steinmanni sp. nov., Coregonus profundus sp. nov. and Coregonus acrinasus sp. nov. are endemic to Lake Thun; Coregonus brienzii sp. nov. is endemic to Lake Brienz; and C. alpinus, C. albellus, and C. fatioi from lakes Brienz and Thun are redescribed. One of these species, C. alpinus, is revised, since the lectotype for this species is incongruent with the species description given by Kottelat (1997) and Kottelat and Freyhof (2007). The name C. alpinus is thus retained for the lectotype designated by Kottelat (1997) and a new description of this taxon provided. For the species otherwise described by Kottelat (1997) and Kottelat and Freyhof (2007) as C. alpinus the new name C. profundus is designated. Coregonus acrinasus is genetically partially of allochthonous origin, closely related to the radiation of Lake Constance, and we therefore compare it to all recognized species of Lake Constance, C. wartmanni, C. macrophthalmus, C. arenicolus, and C. gutturosus.
["adaptive radiation"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new species of Pseudosinella Schäffer, 1897 (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from Altamira Caves (Cantabria, Spain)
This paper describes Pseudosinella altamirensis sp. nov. from the Altamira Caves, municipal district of Santillana del Mar (Cantabria, Spain), and five other caves near the coast of Cantabria (northern Spain). Its taxonomic position is discussed and differences and similarities among morphologically and geographically close species are highlighted. The new species can be identified by its five eyes, the basal and small inner paired teeth on the claw, and the length of the uncrenulated part of the distal dens.
["cave dwelling fauna"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Morphology and phylogenetic analysis of five deep-sea golden gorgonians (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Chrysogorgiidae) in the Western Pacific Ocean, with the description of a new species
Explorations of seamounts in the Western Pacific Ocean and South China Sea resulted in collecting 18 specimens of golden gorgonians. Based on the morphology and the genetic analysis of mtMutS, they are described as one new species, Chrysogorgia carolinensis sp. nov., and four known species, including Chrysogorgia dendritica Xu, Zhan & Xu, 2020, Metallogorgia melanotrichos (Wright & Studer, 1889), Metallogorgia macrospina Kükenthal, 1919, and Pseudochrysogorgia bellona Pante & France, 2010. Chrysogorgia carolinensis belongs to the Chrysogorgia “group A, Spiculosae” with rods or spindles distributed in the polyp-body wall and tentacles, and differs from all of its congeners except C. dendritica by the 1/3L branching sequence and amoeba-shaped sclerites at the basal polyp body. The mtMutS sequence of C. carolinensis sp. nov. has six deletion mutations compared to those of its congeners, supporting the establishment of the new species. Although no genetic variability was observed between the closely related species C. dendritica and C. abludo Pante & Watling, 2012, the former is different from the latter by the apparently irregular sclerites in the polyp body wall. The two specimens of Metallogorgia melanotrichos match well with the original description except for relatively larger polyps, while the M. macrospina specimens have slightly smaller polyps than the holotype. The juvenile of Metallogorgia has an obvious morphological difference with the adults in the colony shape and branches, but they can be unified by the same polyps and sclerites as well as mitochondrial MutS sequences. Thus, the generic diagnosis of Metallogorgia is slightly extended to include the morphology of juveniles. The morphology of Pseudochrysogorgia bellona Pante & France, 2010, as a new record for the South China Sea, matches well with that of the original description. In the phylogenetic trees, the Chrysogorgia species are separated into two clades, and while Metallogorgia and Pseudochrysogorgia formed a sister clade.
["Anthozoa"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

New species and records of Cloeodes Traver, 1938 (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Costa Rica
The nymph of Cloeodes danta sp. nov. is described from male and female nymphs collected from highland streams in the Caribbean Slope of the Costa Rica Central Volcanic Mountain Range. Adults are unknown. In addition, C. excogitatus and C. redactus are recorded for the first time in the country. Cloeodes danta sp. nov. can be differentiated from all described species by the predominantly brownish coloration on females and a similar coloration on males but with segments VII–IX light yellow and light brown, with no conspicuous marks or patterns; abundant scale-bases throughout most parts of the body; hindwings pads absent; the presence of three spines in the corners of the posterior margin of sternum III, and the posterior margin of tergum III with 28–30 spines on each side of the middle line (spine with a base width up to 0.5× spine length).
["diversity"]

The multiformity of antennal chaetae in Troglopedetes Joseph, 1872 (Collembola, Paronellidae, Troglopedetinae), with descriptions of two new species from Thailand
Two new species of the genus Troglopedetes Joseph, 1872 (T. meridionalis sp. nov. and T. kae sp. nov.) are described from caves of the Thai peninsula. This is the first report of the genus south of the Kra Isthmus. The two new species have two rows of dental spines shared by all Thai Troglopedetes. They differ from other members of the genus mainly in the arrangement of dorsal chaetotaxy on head. The antennal chaetotaxy of the two species is analysed in detail in the second part of the paper. All types of antennal chaetae of both new species and their distribution patterns are described for each antennal segment: scales, ordinary chaetae, S-chaetae and subapical organite of Ant. IV. Twenty different types of chaetae are recognised and all except one are present in both species. The total numbers of ordinary chaetae and S-chaetae and their patterns of distribution on antenna are very similar between the two species (483 vs. 518 ordinary chaetae; 207 vs. 208 S-chaetae). Each type of chaetae has its own distribution pattern, markedly contrasted between dorsal and ventral side of antennae, and between antennal segments. This diversity of morphologies and distribution patterns and their similarity between the two species, as well as differences with other species of the same family, suggest that antennal chaetotaxy could provide powerful new characters for the taxonomy of Troglopedetes and related genera.
["Antennae"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

On some new species of Stenheliinae Brady, 1880 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Miraciidae) from north-western Mexico, with the proposal of Lonchoeidestenhelia gen. nov.
Quarterly sampling campaigns during 2019 to study the diversity of meiofauna in a polluted estuary in northwestern Mexico revealed the subfamily Stenheliinae Brady, 1880 as one of the most important contributors to the diversity of benthic harpacticoids. Two new stenheliin species are described here. One of them was assigned to the, so far, monotypic genus Lonchoeidestenhelia gen. nov. defined by the autapomorphic modified proximal outer spinules on the sigmoid process of the male P2 ENP2. The other species was assigned to Willenstenhelia Karanovic and Kim, 2014. Lonchoeidestenhelia gen. nov. shares the armature formula of the P1 EXP2 with Stenhelia, Anisostenhelia, and Beatricella, but seems to bear a sister-group relationship with the former two genera by the loss of one inner seta on the P2–P3 EXP3, the presence of two outer spine-like elements on the male P5 EXP, and the displacement of the outer spine and medial and inner distal setae of P2 ENP3, to an apical and subapical inner position, respectively, but is more closely related to Anisostenhelia by the overall shape of the male P2 ENP2. Willenstenhelia reducta sp. nov. is attributed to a group of species composed of Wi. minuta, Wi. urania, and Wi. terpsichore characterized by the strongly reduced inner seta of the female P5 baseoendopod, but differs in the discrete female P5 baseoendopods and in the presence of one outer seta only on that segment. Willenstenhelia reducta sp. nov. is defined here by the autapomorphic loss of the outermost seta of the female P5 baseoendopod.

Description of three new species of oak gallwasps of the genus Amphibolips Reinhard from Mexico (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae)
Three new species of oak gall wasps of the genus Amphibolips Reinhard, 1865 (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Cynipini) are described from Mexico: Amphibolips magnigalla Nieves-Aldrey & Castillejos-Lemus, Amphibolips kinseyi Nieves-Aldrey & Castillejos-Lemus and Amphibolips nigrialatus Nieves-Aldrey & Castillejos-Lemus. The specimens of the first two species were representative of sexual generations and come from the State of Oaxaca, while only a female, collected in the State of Veracruz, is described for A. nigrialatus. The new species induces galls on Quercus zempoaltepecana and Q. sapotifolia (Fagaceae, section Lobatae, red oaks). Descriptions of the diagnostic morphological characteristics of the three species and a key for their identification are provided. The taxonomic relationships of the new species with other species of Amphibolips are discussed; the three new species are closely allied amongst themselves and are related to A. dampfi Kinsey, 1937. With the three newly-described species, the number of Amphibolips in Mexico is increased to 23.
["Amphibolips"]

Redescription of Monacha pantanellii (De Stefani, 1879), a species endemic to the central Apennines, Italy (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Hygromiidae) by an integrative molecular and morphological approach
Specimens obtained from ten populations of a Monacha species from the central Apennines were compared with six molecular lineages of Monacha cantiana s. l. (CAN-1, CAN-2, CAN-3, CAN-4, CAN-5, CAN-6) and two other Monacha species (M. cartusiana and M. parumcincta), treated as outgroup, by molecular (nucleotide sequences of two mitochondrial COI and 16S rDNA as well as two nuclear ITS2 and H3 gene fragments) and morphological (shell and genital anatomy) analysis. The results strongly suggest that these populations represent a separate species for which two names are available: the older Helix pantanellii De Stefani, 1879 and the junior M. ruffoi Giusti, 1973. The nucleotide sequences created well separated clades on each phylogenetic tree. Genital anatomy included several distinctive features concerning vaginal appendix, penis, penial papilla and flagellum; instead, shell characters only enabled them to be distinguished from M. cartusiana and M. parumcincta. Remarkably, populations of M. pantanellii show high morphological variability. Shell variability mainly concerns size, some populations having very small dimensions. Genital variability shows a more intricate pattern of all anatomical parts, being higher as regards the vagina and vaginal appendix. Despite this morphological variability, the K2P distance range of COI sequences between populations is narrow (0.2–4.5%), if we consider all but three of the 53 sequences obtained. This research confirmed that the species of Monacha and their molecularly distinguished lineages can only occasionally be recognised morphologically and that they have significant inter- and intra-population variability. The possibility of using an overall approach, including shell, genital and molecular evidence, was taken in order to establish a reliable taxonomic setting.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Four new Neotropical species of Eudicrana Loew (Diptera, Mycetophilidae, Sciophilinae) from the Colombian high Andean ecosystems, with comments on the genus
Four new species of the sciophiline genus Eudicrana Loew are described for the Eastern and Central Andes of Colombia–Eudicrana silvaandina sp. nov., E. chingaza sp. nov., E. maculata sp. nov. and E. merizaldei. These are the first species of Eudicrana described from the extreme northern range of the Andes. The altitudinal distribution of these species in the paramos and high Andean forest ecosystems is restricted to 1750–3660 m a.s.l. and some other information on the environment is briefly discussed. A key for the Colombian species of Eudicrana is provided and a discussion is elaborated on the position of these species within the genus.
["Andean ecosystem"]

Three new species of Pseudophanias Raffray from Japan and Taiwan Island, and synonymy of Chandleriella Hlaváč with Pseudophanias (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
The genus Pseudophanias Raffray, 1890 is discovered in Japan and Taiwan Island for the first time, with three new species: P. yaimensis Inoue, Nomura & Yin, sp. nov., P. nakanoi Inoue, Nomura & Yin, sp. nov., and P. excavatus Inoue, Nomura & Yin, sp. nov. It is the fifth tmesiphorine genus known from Japan and the first from Taiwan. The genus Chandleriella Hlaváč, 2000 is placed as a junior synonym of Pseudophanias, resulting in the following new combinations: P. termitophilus (Bryant, 1915), comb. nov., and P. yunnanicus (Yin, 2019), comb. nov. A list of world species, and a key to East and South Asian representatives of Pseudophanias is provided.
["claw morphology"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of the genus Amphicteis Grube, 1850 (Annelida, Ampharetidae) from the Yellow Sea, China, together with a redescription of A. dalmatica Hutchings & Rainer, 1979
A new species of the ampharetid genus Amphicteis, A. hwanghaiensis sp. nov., is described based on material from the Yellow Sea. The new species is characterized by the possession of long, stout, golden paleae with blunt tips, digitiform rudimentary notopodia on the abdominal uncinigers, uncini with a subrostral process, and a narrow rectangular hump separating branchial groups. Amphicteis dalmatica was redescribed from type materials at the Australian Museum, Sydney, and the differences between A. dalmatica and A. hwanghaiensis sp. nov. are discussed. A key to distinguish Amphicteis species described or reported in Western Pacific waters is provided.
["Amphicteis dalmatica"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Chinese species of Carinostigmus Tsuneki (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae), including three new species and a new record to China
Three new species of Carinostigmus Tsuneki from the Oriental Region of China are described: Carinostigmus frontirugatus Bashir & Ma, sp. nov., C. latidentatus Bashir & Ma, sp. nov., and C. vesulcatus Bashir & Ma, sp. nov. In addition, ten species are reported, of which Carinostigmus palawanensis (Tsuneki) is recorded in China for the first time. A key to known and new species of the genus Carinostigmus Tsuneki from China is provided.
["Apoid wasps"]

A review of Crassignatha (Araneae, Symphytognathidae)
Crassignatha Wunderlich, 1995 is redefined to include species with six eyes in three diads, chelicerae fused only near the base, sculpturing on the carapace, one or two clasping spurs on tibia II, a bilateral scutum of the male abdomen, and globular spermathecae and adjacent copulatory openings in the female. A key and distribution map are provided for 24 Crassignatha species in this paper. Diagnoses and illustrated photographs are provided for 22 species from China, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Thirteen species are described and documented as new to science: C. baihua Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. bangbie Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♀), C. changyan Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♀), C. dongnai Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♀), C. gucheng Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. mengla Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. nantou Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. nasalis Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. rostriformis Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. shunani Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. si Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. thamphra Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♀), and C. xichou Y. Lin & S. Li, sp. nov. (♀). Three new combinations are proposed: C. bicorniventris (Lin & Li, 2009), comb. nov., C. quadriventris (Lin & Li, 2009), comb. nov., and C. shiluensis (Lin & Li, 2009), comb. nov. are transferred from Patu Marples, 1951. DNA barcodes and genetic distances of seventeen species are obtained to confirm correct identification. Types of seven known Chinese Crassignatha species are re-examined, and the taxonomic placement of C. longtou Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009 may be incorrect based on morphological and molecular data.

Identification guide to larvae of Caucasian Epeorus (Caucasiron) (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae)
The Caucasus and adjacent areas are inhabited by fifteen species of mayflies of the genus Epeorus, subgenus Caucasiron Kluge, 1997 (Heptageniidae). This identification guide aims to facilitate an accurate species identification of their larvae and sum up all available information on their taxonomy and distribution. An identification key is provided, and the important diagnostic characters of all species are described and illustrated. The larva of E. (C.) insularis (Braasch, 1983) is described for the first time. This study enables the routine identification of Caucasiron larvae necessary for biomonitoring and hydrobiological research in the Caucasus region.
["aquatic insects"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Checklist of herpetofauna in the severely degraded ecosystem of Bidong Island, Peninsular Malaysia, South China Sea
A herpetofaunal inventory was conducted on Bidong Island, Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia. It incorporates data from a recent herpetological survey conducted from 1 to 3 April 2019 with reptile records from previous publications. Specimens were collected with drift-fenced pitfall traps and taxa were recorded with visual encounter surveys (VES). In total, 18 species of reptiles and amphibians were recorded, including three species of frogs, 12 species of lizards, and three species of snakes. Six species from the present survey are new records for the island.
["amphibian"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Revision of the South American genus Gaujonia Dognin (Noctuidae, Pantheinae) with descriptions of five new genera and twenty-one new species
The endemic Neotropical genus Gaujonia Dognin is revised. Morphological characters and a phylogenetic analysis demonstrate paraphyletic relationships among the species. Four different groups are interpreted to represent four different genera. The G. arbosi group is the only remaining clade in the genus Gaujonia, and the other groups have been arranged into three new genera: Millerana gen. nov., Oculicattus gen. nov., and Cicadoforma gen. nov. Additionally, two other genera Cicadomorphus gen. nov., and Gaujoptera gen. nov. were found using morphological and molecular analyses based on some specimens that were misidentified as Gaujonia spp. A total of five new genera, three new combinations (Cicadoforma vau-nigrum Hampson, comb. nov., Oculicattus renifera Hampson, comb. nov., and Millerana arbosioides Dognin, comb. nov.) and 21 new species (Cicadoforma ocelotus sp. nov., Cicadomorphus chicharra sp. nov., Cicadomorphus chuya sp. nov., Cicadomorphus falkasiska sp. nov., Cicadomorphus lilianae sp. nov., Gaujonia bichu sp. nov., Gaujonia chiqyaq sp. nov., Gaujonia kanakusika sp. nov., Gaujonia sourakovi sp. nov., Gaujoptera amsa sp. nov., Millerana austini sp. nov., Millerana cajas sp. nov., Millerana cundinamarquensis sp. nov., Millerana matthewsae sp. nov., Millerana tigrina sp. nov., Oculicattus boliviana sp. nov., Oculicattus brehmi sp. nov., Oculicattus inca sp. nov., Oculicattus raizae sp. nov., Oculicattus schmidti sp. nov., and Oculicattus uturunku sp. nov.) are established.
["Andean Mountains"]

Description of a new Megophrys Kuhl & Van Hasselt, 1822 (Anura, Megophryidae) from Guizhou Province, China
A new species of the genus Megophrys is described from Guizhou Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA indicated the new species as a clade clustered into the Megophrys clade. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 40.0–45.5 mm in males and 48.9–51.2 mm in females); vomerine teeth absent; tongue not notched behind; tympanum distinctly visible, oval; a small horn-like tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; two metacarpal tubercles in hand; toes with rudimentary webbing; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level of mid-eye when leg stretched forward; in breeding males, an internal single subgular vocal sac present and brownish nuptial pads, made up of black nuptial spines, present on the dorsal base of the first two fingers.
["Molecular phylogenetic analysis"]

Description of the new species Coptera tonic (Hymenoptera, Diapriidae), a pupal parasitoid of Rhagoletis juniperina Marcovitch (Diptera, Tephritidae), and revised partial keys to Nearctic Coptera Say
A new species of the parasitic wasp Coptera Say was previously distinguished from other species via correspondence between ecological (host) differences and DNA barcodes. A description and figures for Coptera tonic sp. nov., along with revisions to existing keys that allow it to be distinguished from other Nearctic species without the aid of molecular characters, is provided in this work.
["Coptera cingulatae"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A reassessment of the genus Oligoneuriopsis Crass, 1947 (Ephemeroptera, Oligoneuriidae, Oligoneuriellini)
The distinction between the two closely related genera Oligoneuriella Ulmer, 1924 and Oligoneuriopsis Crass, 1947 has been much debated. First described from South Africa, Oligoneuriopsis seemed to be a clearly defined genus. However, as the known distribution of the genus widened and knowledge on it expanded, species delimitation based on morphology became less clear due to overlap in several apparently defining morphological characters, especially in the nymphs. This work attempts to reassess Oligoneuriopsis morphology in the context of all currently known species. The type species, Oligoneuriopsis lawrencei Crass, 1947 is redescribed at the imaginal and nymphal stages and a neotype is designated. The putative nymph of Oligoneuriopsis dobbsi (Eaton, 1912) is described based on material collected around Mt Elgon (Kenya). The adults of Oligoneuriella orontensis Koch, 1980 are described for the first time and the species is transferred to the genus Oligoneuriopsis (Oligoneuriopsis orontensis comb. nov.). Egg structure is also described for the first time for the species Oligoneuriopsis skhounate and O. orontensis. Some biogeographical considerations are also given. It is likely that more species will still be discovered, especially in Africa.

Four new species of the genus Diduga Moore, [1887] (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae) from China and Malaysia
In this paper, four species of the genus Diduga Moore, [1887] from China (Chongqing and Guangdong) and Malaysia (Borneo, Sabah) are described as new to science, namely D. simianshana sp. nov., D. chebalinga sp. nov., D. chewi sp. nov., and D. hollowayi sp. nov. Adults of these species are illustrated in color, and images of the male and female genitalia are provided. A distribution map of the new species is provided, together with an updated checklist of all species of Diduga.
["Lithosiini"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

New data on Garra makiensis (Cyprinidae, Labeoinae) from the Awash River (Ethiopia) with remarks on its relationships to congeners on the Arabian Peninsula
On the African continent, the genus Garra consists of several species often insufficiently separated from each other by diagnostic characters. Herein, a detailed morphological redescription of Garra makiensis from the Awash River drainage is presented, together with additional data on the type specimens of G. makiensis and G. rothschildi. Mitochondrial CO1 sequence data are also provided, including the historic paralectotype of G. makiensis, with a comparison to Garra species from Africa and the Middle East. Based on these sequences, G. makiensis clusters outside the group of African congeners and is a sister lineage to species from the south-east of the Arabian Peninsula. Although morphologically variable, G. makiensis is characterised by having a single unbranched pectoral-fin ray, a short distance between vent and anal-fin origin (7.3–19.7 % of pelvic – anal distance), chest and belly covered with scales, and a prominent axillary scale at base of pelvic fin (18.8–35.5 % of pelvic-fin length).
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

New stiletto flies from New Caledonia (Therevidae, Agapophytinae)
Stiletto-flies (Diptera: Therevidae) are highly diverse and species-rich in Australia and New Zealand, yet relatively few species have been recorded from neighbouring Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and throughout the remainder of Oceania. Indeed, in New Caledonia only a single species of the widely distributed Australasian genus Anabarhynchus Macquart (Therevinae) is previously known. Herein we describe two new agapophytine genera (i.e., Jeanchazeauia gen. nov., Calophytus gen. nov.), together comprising nine charismatic new species; this represents a first record of the subfamily from New Caledonia. The new genera and species are described and figured.
["Asiloidea"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new genus and species of Nannopodidae (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from the Yellow Sea of South Korea
A new monospecific genus of the family Nannopodidae Brady, 1880 is proposed, based on specimens of both sexes of Concilicoxa hispida gen. et sp. nov. collected from subtidal sandy sediments in the Yellow Sea of South Korea. The presence of a coxal outer projection on the first to fourth legs and reduction of both rami of the second to fourth legs in this new genus show a clear relationship with a clade, which is characterised by the modified thoracopods for burrowing ability, comprising Huntemannia Poppe, 1884, Rosacletodes Wells, 1985, Laophontisochra George, 2002, Acuticoxa Huys & Kihara, 2010 and Talpacoxa Corgosinho, 2012 in Nannopodidae. Within this clade, C. hispida gen. et sp. nov. is most closely related to L. maryamae George, 2002 in having the prehensile endopod in the first leg, broad intercoxal sclerite on the second to fourth legs and the female fifth leg being composed of separate exopod and baseoendopod, but is distinguished by the absence of mandibular exopod, two-segmented mandibular endopod, presence of four setae on the distal exopodal segment of the first leg, and fusion of the intercoxal sclerite to the coxae in the third and fourth legs. These four features are considered as autapomorphies of the new genus. The possible relationship amongst members of the nannopodid clade is further discussed. Additionally, some comments on the taxonomic position of L. terueae Björnberg, 2014 are given, resulting in the transfer of the species to Acuticoxa as A. terueae comb. nov.
["benthic copepod"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

New record of Nausithoe werneri (Scyphozoa, Coronatae, Nausithoidae) from the Brazilian coast and a new synonymy for Nausithoe maculata
The order Coronatae (Scyphozoa) includes six families, of which Nausithoidae Haeckel, 1880 is the most diverse with 26 species. Along the Brazilian coast, three species of the genus Nausithoe Kölliker, 1853 have been recorded: Nausithoe atlantica Broch, 1914, Nausithoe punctata Kölliker, 1853, and Nausithoe aurea Silveira & Morandini, 1997. Living polyps (n = 9) of an unidentified nausithoid were collected in September 2002 off Arraial do Cabo (Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil) at a depth of 227 m, and have been kept in culture since then. We compared these specimens with three species cultured in our laboratory: Nausithoe aurea (from Ilhabela, São Paulo, Brazil), Nausithoe maculata Jarms, 1990 (from Cuba and Puerto Rico), and Nausithoe werneri Jarms, 1990 (from the Atlantic Ocean off Morocco and from the Mediterranean Sea). The criteria used for comparison were: main aspects of the morphology, life cycle, and DNA sequences (18S, 28S, and COI). The results indicate that the unidentified polyps belong to N. werneri. Furthermore, N. aurea is considered a junior synonym of N. maculata.
["Coronamedusae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Bombus (Pyrobombus) johanseni Sladen, 1919, a valid North American bumble bee species, with a new synonymy and comparisons to other “red-banded” bumble bee species in North America (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Bombini)
The bumble bee (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Bombini, Bombus Latreille) fauna of the Nearctic and Palearctic regions are considered well known, with a few species occurring in both regions (i.e., with a Holarctic distribution), but much of the Arctic, especially in North America, remains undersampled or unsurveyed. Several bumble bee taxa have been described from northern North America, these considered either valid species or placed into synonymy with other taxa. However, some of these synonymies were made under the assumption of variable hair colour only, without detailed examination of other morphological characters (e.g., male genitalia, hidden sterna), and without the aid of molecular data. Recently, Bombus interacti Martinet, Brasero & Rasmont, 2019 was described from Alaska where it is considered endemic; based on both morphological and molecular data, it was considered a taxon distinct from B. lapponicus (Fabricius, 1793). Bombus interacti was also considered distinct from B. gelidus Cresson, 1878, a taxon from Alaska surmised to be a melanistic form of B. lapponicus sylvicola Kirby, 1837, the North American subspecies (Martinet et al. 2019). Unfortunately, Martinet et al. (2019) did not have DNA barcode sequences (COI) for females of B. interacti, but molecular data for a melanistic female specimen matching the DNA barcode sequence of the holotype of B. interacti have been available in the Barcodes of Life Data System (BOLD) since 2011. Since then, additional specimens have been obtained from across northern North America. Also unfortunate was that B. sylvicola var. johanseni Sladen, 1919, another melanistic taxon described from far northern Canada, was not considered. Bombus johanseni is here recognized as a distinct taxon from B. lapponicus sylvicola Kirby, 1837 (sensu Martinet et al. 2019) in the Nearctic region, showing the closest affinity to B. glacialis Friese, 1902 of the Old World. As the holotype male of B. interacti is genetically identical to material identified here as B. johanseni, it is placed into synonymy. Thus, we consider B. johanseni a widespread species occurring across arctic and subarctic North America in which most females are dark, with rarer pale forms (i.e., “interacti”) occurring in and seemingly restricted to Alaska. In addition to B. johanseni showing molecular affinities to B. glacialis of the Old World, both taxa also inhabit similar habitats in the arctic areas of both Nearctic and Palearctic, respectively. It is also likely that many of the specimens identified as B. lapponicus sylvicola from far northern Canada and Alaska might actually be B. johanseni, so that should be considered for future studies of taxonomy, distribution, and conservation assessment of North American bumble bees.
["Arctic"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A monograph of the Xyleborini (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) of the Indochinese Peninsula (except Malaysia) and China
The Southeast Asian xyleborine ambrosia beetle fauna is reviewed for the first time. Thirty-four genera and 315 species are reviewed, illustrated, and keyed to genera and species. Sixty-three new species are described: Amasa cycloxyster sp. nov., Amasa galeoderma sp. nov., Amasa gibbosa sp. nov., Amasa lini sp. nov., Amasa tropidacron sp. nov., Amasa youlii sp. nov., Ambrosiophilus caliginestris sp. nov., Ambrosiophilus indicus sp. nov., Ambrosiophilus lannaensis sp. nov., Ambrosiophilus papilliferus sp. nov., Ambrosiophilus wantaneeae sp. nov., Anisandrus achaete sp. nov., Anisandrus auco sp. nov., Anisandrus auratipilus sp. nov., Anisandrus congruens sp. nov., Anisandrus cryphaloides sp. nov., Anisandrus feronia sp. nov., Anisandrus hera sp. nov., Anisandrus paragogus sp. nov., Anisandrus sinivali sp. nov., Anisandrus venustus sp. nov., Anisandrus xuannu sp. nov., Arixyleborus crassior sp. nov., Arixyleborus phiaoacensis sp. nov., Arixyleborus setosus sp. nov., Arixyleborus silvanus sp. nov., Arixyleborus sittichayai sp. nov., Arixyleborus titanus sp. nov., Coptodryas amydra sp. nov., Coptodryas carinata sp. nov., Coptodryas inornata sp. nov., Cyclorhipidion amasoides sp. nov., Cyclorhipidion amputatum sp. nov., Cyclorhipidion denticauda sp. nov., Cyclorhipidion muticum sp. nov., Cyclorhipidion obesulum sp. nov., Cyclorhipidion petrosum sp. nov., Cyclorhipidion truncaudinum sp. nov., Cyclorhipidion xeniolum sp. nov., Euwallacea geminus sp. nov., Euwallacea neptis sp. nov., Euwallacea subalpinus sp. nov., Euwallacea testudinatus sp. nov., Heteroborips fastigatus sp. nov., Heteroborips indicus sp. nov., Microperus latesalebrinus sp. nov., Microperus minax sp. nov., Microperus sagmatus sp. nov., Streptocranus petilus sp. nov., Truncaudum bullatum sp. nov., Xyleborinus cuneatus sp. nov., Xyleborinus disgregus sp. nov., Xyleborinus echinopterus sp. nov., Xyleborinus ephialtodes sp. nov., Xyleborinus huifenyinae sp. nov., Xyleborinus jianghuansuni sp. nov., Xyleborinus thaiphami sp. nov., Xyleborinus tritus sp. nov., Xyleborus opacus sp. nov., Xyleborus sunisae sp. nov., Xyleborus yunnanensis sp. nov., Xylosandrus bellinsulanus sp. nov., Xylosandrus spinifer sp. nov.. Thirteen new combinations are given: Ambrosiophilus consimilis (Eggers) comb. nov., Anisandrus carinensis (Eggers) comb. nov., Anisandrus cristatus (Hagedorn) comb. nov., Anisandrus klapperichi (Schedl) comb. nov., Anisandrus percristatus (Eggers) comb. nov., Arixyleborus resecans (Eggers) comb. nov., Cyclorhipidion armiger (Schedl) comb. nov., Debus quadrispinus (Motschulsky) comb. nov., Heteroborips tristis (Eggers) comb. nov., Leptoxyleborus machili (Niisima) comb. nov., Microperus cruralis (Schedl) comb. nov., Planiculus shiva (Maiti & Saha) comb. nov., Xylosandrus formosae (Wood) comb. nov. Twenty-four new synonyms are proposed: Ambrosiophilus osumiensis (Murayama, 1934) (= Xyleborus nodulosus Eggers, 1941 syn. nov.); Ambrosiophilus subnepotulus (Eggers, 1930) (= Xyleborus cristatuloides Schedl, 1971 syn. nov.); Ambrosiophilus sulcatus (Eggers, 1930) (= Xyleborus sinensis Eggers, 1941 syn. nov.; = Xyleborus sulcatulus Eggers, 1939 syn. nov.); Anisandrus hirtus (Hagedorn, 1904) (= Xyleborus hirtipes Schedl, 1969 syn. nov.); Cnestus protensus (Eggers, 1930) (= Cnestus rostratus Schedl, 1977 syn. nov.); Cyclorhipidion bodoanum (Reitter, 1913) (= Xyleborus misatoensis Nobuchi, 1981 syn. nov.); Cyclorhipidion distinguendum (Eggers, 1930) (= Xyleborus fukiensis Eggers, 1941 syn. nov.; = Xyleborus ganshoensis Murayama, 1952 syn. nov.); Cyclorhipidion inarmatum (Eggers, 1923) (= Xyleborus vagans Schedl, 1977 syn. nov.); Debus quadrispinus (Motschulsky, 1863) (= Xyleborus fallax Eichhoff, 1878 syn. nov.); Euwallacea gravelyi (Wichmann, 1914) (= Xyleborus barbatomorphus Schedl, 1951 syn. nov.); Euwallacea perbrevis (Schedl, 1951) (= Xyleborus molestulus Wood, 1975 syn. nov.; Euwallacea semirudis (Blandford, 1896) (= Xyleborus neohybridus Schedl, 1942 syn. nov.); Euwallacea sibsagaricus (Eggers, 1930) (= Xyleborus tonkinensis Schedl, 1934 syn. nov.); Euwallacea velatus (Sampson, 1913) (= Xyleborus rudis Eggers, 1930 syn. nov.); Microperus kadoyamaensis (Murayama, 1934) (= Xyleborus pubipennis Schedl, 1974 syn. nov.; =Xyleborus denseseriatus Eggers, 1941 syn. nov.); Stictodex dimidiatus (Eggers, 1927) (=Xyleborus dorsosulcatus Beeson, 1930 syn. nov.); Webbia trigintispinata Sampson, 1922 (= Webbia mucronatus Eggers, 1927 syn. nov.); Xyleborinus artestriatus (Eichhoff, 1878) (= Xyelborus angustior [sic] Eggers, 1925 syn. nov.; = Xyleborus undatus Schedl, 1974 syn. nov.); Xyleborinus exiguus (Walker, 1859) (= Xyleborus diversus Schedl, 1954 syn. nov.); Xyleborus muticus Blandford, 1894 (= Xyleborus conditus Schedl, 1971 syn. nov.; = Xyleborus lignographus Schedl, 1953 syn. nov.). Seven species are removed from synonymy and reinstated as valid species: Anisandrus cristatus (Hagedorn, 1908), Cyclorhipidion tenuigraphum (Schedl, 1953), Diuncus ciliatoformis (Schedl, 1953), Euwallacea gravelyi (Wichmann, 1914), Euwallacea semirudis (Blandford, 1896), Microperus fulvulus (Schedl, 1942), Xyleborinus subspinosus (Eggers, 1930).
["ambrosia beetles"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A taxonomic revision of the Archipini of the Caribbean (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae, Tortricinae)
The Archipini fauna of the Caribbean is revised to include 33 species. Most previously described species occurring in the region are redescribed and figured, with 13 new species: Argyrotaenia browni sp. nov., A. cryptica sp. nov. (including A. c. cryptica ssp. nov. and A. c. praeteritana ssp. nov.), A. paradisei sp. nov., A. razowskiana sp. nov., Claduncaria rawlinsana sp. nov., Cla. praedictana sp. nov., Cla. taino sp. nov., Clepsis davisi sp. nov., Cle. deroni sp. nov., Cle. jamesstewarti sp. nov., Cle. peroniae sp. nov., Mictocommosis lesleyae sp. nov., and Mictopsichia nyhllinda sp. nov. Three new combinations are proposed: Claduncaria mesosignaria (Razowski, 1999), comb. nov. (including Argyrotaenia thamaluncus Razowski, 1999, syn. nov.), Claduncaria minisignaria (Razowski, 1999), comb. nov., and Claduncaria chalarostium (Razowski & Becker, 2000b), comb. nov., stat. nov. Argyrotaenia granpiedrae Razowski & Becker, 2010 is reduced to subspecies rank under Argyrotaenia ceramica Razowski, 1999, resulting in Argyrotaenia ceramica granpiedrae Razowski & Becker, 2010, stat. nov. Four new synonymies are proposed: Clepsis labisclera Razowski & Becker, 2010, syn. nov. as junior synonym of Claduncaria maestrana Razowski & Becker, 2010; Clepsis pinaria Razowski & Becker, 2010, syn. nov. as junior synonym of Clepsis peritana (Clemens, 1860); and Argyrotaenia neibana Razowski, 1999, syn. nov. and A. ochrochroa Razowski, 1999 syn. nov. as junior synonyms of Argyrotaenia amatana (Dyar, 1901). Males of Argyrotaenia felisana Razowski, 1999, A. nuezana Razowski, 1999, and Claduncaria minisignaria (Razowski, 1999), comb. nov. are described for the first time; females of Argyrotaenia jamaicana (Razowski & Becker, 2000a) and Claduncaria ochrochlaena (Razowski, 1999) are described for the first time. The concept of Claduncaria is expanded and its diagnosis is modified to more clearly define its generic boundaries. A unique external sexual coupling mechanism in Claduncaria is discussed. Keys to the genera and species of Caribbean Archipini, distribution maps, a regional checklist, and Neighbor-joining and Maximum Likelihood trees based on COI barcode data are provided. Phylogenetic relationships among Caribbean Archipini are briefly discussed.
["Argyrotaenia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Genus-level revision of the Alycaeidae (Gastropoda, Cyclophoroidea), with an annotated species catalogue
412 species-group names (including 11 replacement names), and 14 genus-group names of the Alycaeidae have been introduced to date. Type materials of 85% (336) of the known species and subspecies were examined, a further 5% (19) of the taxa were studied using available non-type material, and for another 6% (22) the original descriptions were sufficiently detailed to evaluate their taxonomic status. Only 3% of the taxa (12) could not be examined. Special attention was paid to the sculpture of the embryonic whorls and the sutural tube-microtunnel system in order to provide a novel classification for this group. In this study 363 taxa (320 species or 43 subspecies) are accepted within the family Alycaeidae. Of these, 22 have been described by the lead author and his coauthors in previous publications. In addition, there are 18 species that were formerly classified in Cycloryx and now belong to Pincerna due to its synonymy with Cycloryx. Among the remaining 323 species, 209 (65%) are transferred here to another genus, whilst 114 (35%) have remained in their original genus. Seven genera are accepted. While some questions (e.g., the distinction between Pincerna and Alycaeus) remained unanswered, this revision made three main achievements: (1) The Dicharax species were identified based on the absence of spiral striation on the entire shell; (2) the Metalycaeus species were identified based on the spiral striation of the protoconch; (3) and Stomacosmethis was separated from Alycaeus based on the extremely short sutural tube. Five nominal species are being synonymised with other species, and eight species are now treated as subspecies. The following replacement names are proposed: Dioryx urnula niosiensis Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus urnula var. daflaensis Godwin-Austen, 1914; Dioryx urnula rotundus Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus urnula var. globosus Godwin-Austen, 1914; Pincerna crenilabris juttingae Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus crenilabris laevis van Benthem Jutting, 1959; Pincerna crenilabris korintjiensis Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus crenilabris latecostatus van Benthem Jutting, 1959; Dicharax conicus jatingaensis Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus conicus var. nanus Godwin-Austen, 1914; Metalycaeus godwinausteni Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus neglectus Godwin-Austen, 1914; and finally Metalycaeus suhajdai Páll-Gergely, nom. nov. for Alycaeus varius Godwin-Austen, 1914.
["land snail"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

First record of a mermithid worm (Nematoda, Mermithidae) parasitizing a third instar nymph of Triatoma sordida (Stål, 1859) (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae) from Mato Grosso, Brazil
A juvenile specimen of a mermithid (Nematoda) was found parasitizing a third instar nymph of Triatoma sordida from Mato Grosso, Brazil. This is the first record of mermithid parasitism in a triatomine species. The Mermithidae represents a family of nematodes that are specialized insect parasites. Entomonematodes are one of the highly influential agents regulating the population dynamics of insects. This report introduces the opportunity to think about mermithids as a possible candidate for use as triatomine biological control.
["Mato Grosso"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of freshwater crabs of the genera Eosamon Yeo & Ng, 2007 and Indochinamon Yeo & Ng, 2007 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Potamidae) from southern Yunnan, China
Two new species of potamid crabs, Eosamon daiae sp. nov. and Indochinamon malipoense sp. nov. are described from the Sino-Burmese border, southwestern Yunnan and from the Sino-Vietnamese border, southeastern Yunnan, China. The two new species can be distinguished from their closest congeners by several characters, among which is the form of the first gonopod structures. Molecular analyses based on partial mitochondrial 16S rDNA sequences also support the systematic status of these new taxa.

Jumping plant lice of the genus Aphalara (Hemiptera, Psylloidea, Aphalaridae) in the Neotropics
The Neotropical species of the predominantly north temperate genus Aphalara are reviewed. Four species are recorded here from this region, two of which are described as new. Aphalara ritteri sp. nov. occurs in southern Brazil (Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina) and represents the first and only species reported from South America. A second new species, Aphalara ortegae sp. nov., is described from Mexico and Puerto Rico. Another two species, Aphalara persicaria Caldwell, 1937 and A. simila Caldwell, 1937, have been previously reported from Mexico and the USA, and one of them also from Cuba. The two new species are both associated with Persicaria hydropiperoides and P. punctata (Polygonaceae) on which the immatures induce leaf roll galls. The two new species are morphologically similar to A. persicaria, to which they are probably closely related. A key is provided for the adults and immatures of the Neotropical species of Aphalara.
["Brazil"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

An unusual new centipede subgenus Lithobius (Sinuispineus), with two new species from China (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
The present study describes a new Lithobiomorpha subgenus, Lithobius (Sinuispineus) subgen. nov., and two new species, L. (Sinuispineus) sinuispineus sp. nov. and L. (Sinuispineus) minuticornis sp. nov. from China. The representatives of the new subgenus are characterized by a considerable sexual dimorphism of the ultimate leg pair 15, having the femur and tibia unusually enlarged in males, and the dorsal side of the femur with curved posterior spurs. These features distinguish Lithobius (Sinuispineus) subgen. nov. from all other subgenera of Lithobius. The diagnosis and the main morphological characters of the new subgenus and of the two new species are given for both male and female specimens.
["Chilopoda"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Plectorhinchus makranensis (Teleostei, Haemulidae), a new species of sweetlips from the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman
Plectorhinchus makranensis sp. nov. is described on the basis of 16 specimens from the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, in the Northwest Indian Ocean. The new species can be distinguished from congeners by a combination of dorsal fin rays XII, 18–20, pectoral-fin rays 16–17, tubed lateral-line scales 55–57, gill rakers count (10–12 on the upper limb and 16–17 on the lower limb), 17–18 scales between the lateral line and the first anal-fin spine, 30–31 circumpeduncular scale rows and color pattern. Plectorhinchus makranensis sp. nov. is distinguished from P. schotaf by having the posterior margin of the opercular membrane grey (vs. red in P. schotaf), fewer circumpeduncular scale rows, and a shorter base of the soft portion of the dorsal fin, 27.6–29.4% of standard length (SL) (vs. 31–32.3% of SL in P. schotaf). The new species resembles P. sordidus but is differentiated from it by having more gill rakers, a smaller orbit diameter 27.5–32.1% of head length (HL) (vs. 35.5–37.2% of HL in P. sordidus), a longer caudal peduncle 19.2–21.3% of SL (vs. 17.1–17.9% of SL in P. sordidus), and the first to third pectoral-fin rays light gray (vs. dark gray in P. sordidus). The new species can also be distinguished from the other species, including P. schotaf and P. sordidus, based on COI and Cyt b molecular markers. The phylogenetic position of this new species indicates that it is a sister taxon of P. schotaf.
["Haemulidae"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

The terrestrial microsnail genus Aulacospira Möllendorff, 1890 (Eupulmonata, Stylommatophora, Hypselostomatidae) in Thailand with key to Thai species
Thai terrestrial microsnails in the genus Aulacospira Möllendorff, 1890 are revised based on the collection of the Zoological Research Collection, Burapha University, Chonburi Province, Thailand and recently collected material. Three new species are described: Aulacospira nutadhirai sp.nov. from Southern Thailand, and Aulacospira tekavongae sp.nov. and Aulacospira vanwalleghemi sp. nov. from Eastern Thailand. The radula and genital system are described, and a key to Thai species is presented.
["new species"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of the genus Gastrocentrum Gorham (Coleoptera, Cleridae, Tillinae), with the description of five new species
The genus Gastrocentrum Gorham, 1876 is revised to include nine species. Five new species are described in this genus: G. magnum sp. nov. (NE India), G. regulare sp. nov. (Cameron Highlands, Malaysia), G. xiaodongi sp. nov. (Gyirong, Xizang, China), G. zayuense sp. nov. (Zayü, Xizang, China), and G. gaoligongense sp. nov. (Fugong, Yunnan, China). Gastrocentrum nitidum Schenkling, 1916 is transferred to the genus Tillus as a new combination. All the species in this genus are described (except G. brevicolle), and a key is provided for their identification. Illustrations of male genitalia, female reproductive organs, and other important structures are provided. An interspecific phylogeny-estimate of Gastrocentrum is presented based on morphological data, with two main clades recognized: a clade containing G. unicolor and G. laterimaculatum, and a clade containing the remaining six species (the latter a polytomy consisting of G. magnum sp. nov., G. dux, and G. regulare sp. nov., and a well-supported sub-clade representing the remaining species). Additionally, the taxonomic and phylogenetic importance of female reproductive organs is discussed.
["Australian region"]

Eight new species of Otacilia (Araneae: Phrurolithidae) from southern China
Eight new Otacilia species were collected from Ji’an City, Jiangxi Province, China during a survey of the phrurolithid fauna of the region: Otacilia bizhouica Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. gougunao Liu, sp. nov. (♂), O. nanhuashanica Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. subfabiformis Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. wugongshanica Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), Otacilia yusishanica Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. zaoshiica Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀) and O. ziyaoshanica Liu, sp. nov. (♀). All species are described and illustrated with photographs and SEM micrographs, and their distribution is also mapped.
["Jiangxi Province"]

First record of the subfamily Epitraninae from Saudi Arabia (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Chalcididae), with the description of three new species
The monotypic subfamily Epitraninae Burks, 1936 (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea, Chalcididae) is reported for the first time in Saudi Arabia. Seven Epitranus species are recorded in the Southwestern and Central regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, of which three species are new: E. delvarei Soliman & Gadallah, sp. nov. (female & male), E. similis Gadallah & Soliman, sp. nov. (male), and E. subinops Soliman & Gadallah, sp. nov. (female), are described and illustrated. Four new records, E. clavatus (Fabricius), E. hamoni complex, E. inops Steffan, and E. torymoides (Risbec), are also reported. An illustrated key to species is provided.

A new species of Rain Frog (Brevicipitidae, Breviceps) endemic to Angola
Recent molecular phylogenetic work has found that Breviceps Merrem, 1820 comprises two major clades, one of which, the B. mossambicus group, is widely distributed across southern sub-Saharan Africa. This group is notable for harboring abundant cryptic diversity. Of the four most recently described Breviceps species, three are members of this group, and at least five additional lineages await formal description. Although Breviceps has long been known to occur in Angola, no contemporary material has been collected until recently. The three most widespread taxa, B. adspersus, B. mossambicus, and B. poweri, may all occur in Angola, but accurate species assignment remains challenging given the rampant morphological similarity between these taxa, and, until recently, the lack of genetic resources. Phylogenetic, morphological, and acoustic analyses of recently collected samples from disparate localities within Angola provide evidence for an undescribed species that is sister to B. poweri. The new species can be diagnosed from its sister taxon by lacking pale spots along the flanks, a pale patch above the vent, and a short, dark band below the nares (all present in B. poweri). Additionally, the male advertisement call differs from the three other Breviceps that might occur in Angola in having both a longer interval between consecutive calls and a higher average dominant frequency. We here describe this lineage as a distinct species, currently only known from Angola, and discuss the presence of other Breviceps taxa within Angola.
["Afrobatrachia"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Multiple data revealed two new species of the Asian horned toad Megophrys Kuhl & Van Hasselt, 1822 (Anura, Megophryidae) from the eastern corner of the Himalayas
Multiple disciplines can help to discover cryptic species and resolve taxonomic confusions. The Asian horned toad genus Megophrys sensu lato as a diverse group was proposed to contain dozens of cryptic species. Based on molecular phylogenetics, morphology, osteology, and bioacoustics data, the species profiles of Megophrys toads in the eastern corner of Himalayas in Medog County, Tibet Autonomous Region, China was investigated. The results indicated that this small area harbored at least four Megophrys species, i.e., M. medogensis, M. pachyproctus, Megophrys zhoui sp. nov., and Megophrys yeae sp. nov., the latter two being described in this study. Additionally, the mitochondrial DNA trees nested the low-middle-elevation and high-elevation groups of M. medogensis into a monophyletic group, being in discordance with the paraphyletic relationship between them revealed in the nuclear DNA trees. The findings highlighted the underestimated biodiversity in Himalayas, and further indicated that the Megophrys toads here have been probably experienced complicated evolutionary history, for example, introgression between clades or incomplete lineage sorting and niche divergences in microhabitats. Anyway, it is urgent for us to explore the problems because these toads are suffering from increasing threats from human activities and climatic changes.
["Multiple data"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A troglobitic species of the centipede Cryptops (Chilopoda, Scolopendromorpha) from northwestern Botswana
A new species of Cryptops, C. (Cryptops) legagus sp. nov., occurs in caves in the Koanaka and Gcwihaba Hills in northwestern Botswana. Bayesian molecular phylogenetics using 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I corroborates a morphological assignment to the subgenus Cryptops and closest affinities to southern temperate species in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. The new species is not conspicuously modified as a troglomorph.
["biospeleology"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Taxonomic notes on the genus Campiglossa Rondani (Diptera, Tephritidae, Tephritinae, Tephritini) in India, with description of three new species
Three new species of Campiglossa Rondani are described from India: adults of both sexes and third instar larvae of C. ialong David, Salini & Hancock, sp. nov. and C. sherlyae David & Hancock, sp. nov., plus an adult female of C. shaktii David, Sachin & Hancock, sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Postabdominal structures, cephalopharyngeal skeleton, and anterior and posterior spiracles of C. gemma (Hering, 1939) and C. sororcula (Wiedemann, 1830) are illustrated. DNA barcode sequences of C. ialong sp. nov., C. sherlyae sp. nov., and C. gemma were obtained and reported. Records of C. absinthii (Fabricius, 1805) and C. iracunda (Hering, 1938) are regarded as misidentifications of C. lyncea (Bezzi, 1913) and C. shaktii sp. nov., respectively, and excluded from the Indian fauna. A key to the known species of Campiglossa from India is provided. Results of preliminary phylogenetic analysis using COI revealed that C. ialong sp. nov. is paraphyletic to the Campiglossa misella group and C. C. sherlyae sp. nov. is a sister species of C. deserta.
["Asteraceae"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

First record of the genus Boholina (Copepoda, Calanoida, Pseudocyclopidae) in Vietnam, with description of a new species from an anchialine cave in Tra Ban Island
A new species, Boholina reducta sp. nov., was found in a brackish pool within an anchialine cave in Tra Ban Island in Bai Tu Long Bay, north Vietnam. The new species is clearly distinguished from all the six species currently known in the genus Boholina by the following unique characteristics: reduction of the septum between gonopores; narrow and pointed rostrum; basal segment of mandibular palp armed with three setae; maxillule without seta on the basal exite, and exopod with 11 setae; second and third endopodal segments of the maxilliped bearing three setae each; exopod of male right leg 5 2-segmented, with two strong and one vestigial spines on the outer margin of the distal segment; and last exopodal segment of female leg 5 bearing only one spine on the outer margin. We provide a description of the new species, along with detailed illustrations and scanning electron microscopy photographs. The identification key to Boholina species is updated as well. This is the first record of the genus Boholina from Vietnam.
["Bai Tu Long Bay"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

First contribution to the doryctine fauna (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Doryctinae) of Farasan Archipelago, Saudi Arabia, with new records and the description of a new species
The doryctine wasp species (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) of Farasan Archipelago (Saudi Arabia) are studied here for the first time. Six species are reported, of which Mimodoryctes arabicus Edmardash, Gadallah & Soliman is described and illustrated as a new species. Neoheterospilus sp. is most probably a new species but further collecting should be done to obtain the female. Four species are new records for Saudi Arabia as well as for the whole Arabian Peninsula: Dendrosotinus ferrugineus (Marshall, 1888), Hecabalodes anthaxiae Wilkinson, 1929, Mimodoryctes proprius Belokobylskij, 2001, and Rhaconotus (Rhaconotus) carinatus Polaszek, 1994. The newly recorded species are re-described and illustrated.

Integrative taxonomic revision of the land snail genus Sarika Godwin-Austen, 1907 in Thailand, with descriptions of nine new species (Eupulmonata, Ariophantidae)
Members of the land snail genus Sarika Godwin-Austen 1907 are superficially similar and difficult to differentiate by their shell morphology so that their species limits are still unclear. In order to resolve the taxonomy of this group, a phylogenetic reconstruction of Sarika is presented, based on morphological and anatomical characters, as well as on partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. In total, 23 species of Sarika are recognised in Thailand, and nine species are new to science, namely S. caligina Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov., S. gratesi Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov., S. inferospira Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov., S. lactospira Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov., S. megalogyne Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov., S. melanospira Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov., S. pellosa Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov., S. solemi Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov., and S. subheptagyra Pholyotha & Panha, sp. nov. Results from genital examination and COI analyses confirm the monophyly of Sarika and its species. The intra- and inter-specific genetic distances of Sarika were 0–3.7% and 4.6–12.0%, respectively. Colour images of the living adults, shell, and genitalia along with SEM images of the spermatophore and radula are given. In addition, an identification key and a geographical distribution map of Sarika species are provided.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species"]

Description and biological notes of the larva of Cionus olivieri Rosenschoeld, 1838 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), with a comparison with other species of the tribe Cionini
The mature larva of Cionus olivieri Rosenschoeld, 1838 is described and illustrated in detail for the first time. It is compared with those known from the same genus and other genera in the tribe Cionini and with those of the hypothesized sister tribe Mecinini in the Curculioninae. The larvae of Cionus have three distinctive diagnostic features: the reduced number of setae on the epicranium (only two or three des and one or two fs) and on the epipharyngeal lining (only two als, two ams, and no mes); i.e., distinctly fewer than the most frequent number of setae in weevils, and mandibles dentate or angulate internally near the base. If considered together with Stereonychus Suffrian, 1854, the other genus of Cionini with larvae studied in detail, it is preliminarily suggested that mature larvae of this tribe might be characterized by six main diagnostic features: (1) labial palpi one-segmented, (2) labral rods absent, (3) pedal areas swollen to form large lobes or prolegs, (4) mandible with sharp apical teeth, (5) reduced number of fs on frons, only one or two fs, and (6) reduced number of epipharyngeal setae (two or three als and two or three ams, but no mes). It was noticed that C. helleri Reitter, 1904 from Japan, a very distinct species in the genus for some characters of the adult, also possesses distinctive characters in the larva which are uncommon among known cionines. New biological data on C. olivieri with the discovery of its host plant, Verbascum songaricum (Scrophulariaceae), in central Asia are also reported.
["biology"]

An update of the genera Idiasta Foerster and Rhacalysia Cameron (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) and the descriptions of new species from the Neotropical Region
Taxonomic combinations have been made involving the two genera Idiasta Foerster and Rhacalysia Cameron. Four new species are described from Brazil: Idiasta rupina sp. nov., Rhacalysia ampla sp. nov., Rhacalysia jatai sp. nov., and Rhacalysia monteiroi sp. nov. Dichotomous identification keys to the Neotropical species of Idiasta and Rhacalysia are provided. Phaenocarpa delicata Papp, 1969 is included in Rhacalysia and is a new combination.

Taxonomic study of genus Peucela Ragonot, 1891 (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae) in China, with descriptions of three new species
The genus Peucela Ragonot, 1891 from China is revised. Three species are described as new to science, P. acutativalva sp. nov., P. baishanzuensis sp. nov., and P. nigra sp. nov. In addition, P. olivalis comb. nov. is newly combined. Photographs of adults, and male and female genitalia are provided. A key to the species of Peucela in China is also provided.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

The “minute diving beetles” of southern Australia – taxonomic revision of Gibbidessus Watts, 1978, with description of six new species (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Bidessini)
Morphology and mitochondrial DNA sequence data are used to reassess the taxonomy of Australian diving beetles previously assigned to the genera Uvarus Guignot, 1939 and Gibbidessus Watts, 1978. Gibbidessus was described as a monotypic genus for Gibbidessus chipi Watts, 1978. The genus is significantly extended here. Based on molecular systematic evidence, Uvarus pictipes (Lea, 1899) is transferred to Gibbidessus. Gibbidessus chipi and Gibbidessus pictipes comb. nov. are redescribed, and six new species are described: Gibbiddessus atomus sp. nov. (SW Australia, Northcliffe area) [the smallest epigean diving beetle in Australia], G. davidi sp. nov. (SW Australia), G. drikdrikensis sp. nov. (Victoria), G. kangarooensis sp. nov. (SA Kangaroo Island), G. pederzanii sp. nov. (SW Australia, Nannup area), and G. rottnestensis sp. nov. (SW Australia). Species are delineated using characters such as male genital structure and beetle size, shape and colour pattern. Mitochondrial Cox1 data for 27 individuals, representing five species, were generated, and revealed clusters congruent with the morphological evidence. Gibbidessus occur in southern Australia, with the centre of diversification in the isolated peat- and wetlands of SW Australia. All species occur in very shallow water of seasonal, exposed or half-shaded wetlands and flooded meadows.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Genus Meleonoma Meyrick, 1914 (Lepidoptera, Autostichidae) from Hainan Island, China, with descriptions of sixteen new species
Sixteen new species of the genus Meleonoma Meyrick, 1914 from Hainan Island, China are described: M. apicicurvata Wang, sp. nov., M. apicirectangula Wang, sp. nov., M. bicuspidata Wang, sp. nov., M. bidentata Wang, sp. nov., M. conica Wang, sp. nov., M. hainanensis Wang, sp. nov., M. latiunca Wang, sp. nov., M. linearis Wang, sp. nov., M. magnidentata Wang, sp. nov., M. ornithorrhyncha Wang, sp. nov., M. parilis Wang, sp. nov., M. pectinalis Wang, sp. nov., M. puncticulata Wang, sp. nov., M. quadritaeniata Wang, sp. nov., M. robustispina Wang, sp. nov. and M. rostellata Wang, sp. nov. Images of adult dorsal habitus and genitalia of the new species are provided. A map showing the collecting localities and photos of the habitat where the specimens were collected are provided, along with two maps showing the distribution of each species.
["Distribution map"]
["Advanced Data Compression Techniques", "Speech and Audio Processing", "Digital Filter Design and Implementation"]

A new species of Pima Hulst, 1888 from China (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Phycitinae), with a key to Holarctic species
Pima tristriata sp. nov. is described as new to science based on specimens collected from the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China, and P. boisduvaliella (Guenée, 1845) is also treated here for comparison. DNA barcodes of the two species are provided, together with a neighbor-joining tree for species delimitation. A key to the Holarctic species and a distribution map of the Chinese species are presented.

Four new species and two new records of genus Zeugophora (Coleoptera, Megalopodidae, Zeugophorinae) from China
Four new species of the subgenus Pedrillia Westwood, 1864 are described from southwest and central China: Zeugophora (Pedrillia) euonymorum sp. nov., Zeugophora (Pedrillia) flavithorax sp. nov., Zeugophora (Pedrillia) trifasciata sp. nov. and Zeugophora (Pedrillia) yuae sp. nov. Two species are recorded for the first time in China and redescribed: Zeugophora (Zeugophora) turneri Power, 1863 and Zeugophora (Pedrillia) nigricollis Jacoby, 1885. To date, a total of 35 Zeugophorinae species has been recognized in China.
["Celastraceae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The position of the Azeliinae in the Muscidae (Diptera) based on musculature of the male terminalia
The male genital and pregenital skeleton and musculature were studied in males of the following species of the Muscidae subfamily Azeliinae: Drymeia firthiana (Huckett, 1965), Drymeia longiseta Sorokina & Pont, 2015, Drymeia segnis (Holmgren, 1883), Thricops nigritellus (Zetterstedt, 1838), Thricops hirtulus (Zetterstedt, 1838), Hydrotaea dentipes (Fabricius, 1805), Muscina stabulans (Fallén, 1817), and Muscina levida (Harris, 1780). Descriptions and figures of the genital sclerites and muscles of D. firthiana and M. stabulans are given. A comparison was made between the genital segments and muscles of previously studied species of Mydaeinae and Muscinae and those of the Azeliinae. Based on the structure of the skeleton and muscles of syntergosternite VII + VIII and the phallapodeme muscles, significant differences were found between the subfamily Azeliinae and the subfamilies Mydaeinae and Muscinae. The basal position of the Azeliinae within the family Muscidae was confirmed. A comparison of the genital segments and muscles of the Muscidae with those of the Scathophagidae (Scathophaga stercoraria (Linnaeus, 1758)) and Anthomyiidae (Delia platura (Meigen, 1826)) was made. Tendencies in reduction of the pregenital segments and musculature, as well as of the phallapodeme muscles in the evolution of the Muscoidea have been revealed. The complete set of phallapodeme muscles in the Scathophagidae and Anthomyiidae corresponds to the basal state, and therefore the structure of the genital sclerites and muscles in the Muscidae shows a certain degree of reduction. The progressive changes in the Muscidae from the Azeliinae through the Mydaeinae to the Muscinae were traced.
["abdominal segments"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Contribution to the taxonomy of Mexican Tersilochinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae), with descriptions of five new species
Five new species of Tersilochinae (Ichneumonidae) are described from Mexico: Meggoleus hidalgoensis sp. nov., M. whartoni Khalaim, sp. nov., Phradis belovi Khalaim, sp. nov., Stethantyx covida sp. nov., and St. oaxacana sp. nov. Meggoleus whartoni Khalaim, sp. nov. is also recorded from Panama, and St. covida sp. nov. from Guatemala. The species recently described from Mexico Probles contrerasi Khalaim & Ruíz-Cancino is transferred to the genus Gelanes Horstmann, comb. nov. A partial key to the species of Meggoleus with small propodeal spiracles and a key to Mexican species of Phradis are provided.
["Central America"]

Description of a new horned toad of Megophrys Kuhl & Van Hasselt, 1822 (Anura, Megophryidae) from southwest China
A new species of the genus Megophrys is described from Guizhou Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses supported the new species as an independent clade nested into the Megophrys. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 49.3–58.2 mm in males); vomerine ridges present distinctly, vomerine teeth present; tongue feebly notched behind; tympanum distinctly visible, oval; two metacarpal tubercles in hand; toes with one-third webbing and wide lateral fringes; heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level between tympanum and eye when leg stretched forward; an internal single subgular vocal sac present in male; in breeding male, the nuptial pads with large and sparse black nuptial spines present on the dorsal bases of the first two fingers.

A new species of Cheiloneurus Westwood (Hymenoptera, Encyrtidae) as a hyperparasitoid of the invasive cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, in China
A new species, Cheiloneurus nankingensis sp. nov., from Eastern China is described. It is similar to C. arabiacus Hayat but distinct from it in a number of morphological characters. It is a hyperparasitoid with the encyrtid wasp Aenasius arizonensis Girault, 1915 as the primary host and the cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, 1898 (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) as the secondary host. A key to all seven species of Cheiloneurus known from China is presented.
["Aenasius arizonensis"]

On Chinese Trachyphloeini with description of four new species (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae)
Rhinodontodes alashanensis sp. nov., Trachyphloeosoma honza sp. nov., T. jirka sp. nov., and T. martin sp. nov. are described from China, illustrated and compared with similar species. The genus Rhinodontodes and the species Rhinodontodes subsignatus Voss, 1967 and Rhinodontus mongolicus Borovec, 2003 are recorded from China for the first time. Keys to all Chinese genera of Trachyphloeini, and to the Chinese species of Rhinodontodes and Trachyphloeosoma, are provided.
["New taxa"]

An update and revision of the Andrena fauna of Morocco (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Andrenidae) with the description of eleven new North African species
Morocco has a diverse bee fauna, but one that has also been relatively understudied in recent years. Here a revision of the species-rich genus Andrena is presented that reveals eleven new species for science and substantially improves our understanding of North African Andrena. From Morocco, Andrena (Aciandrena) semiadesus Wood, sp. nov., Andrena (Aciandrena) triangulivalvis Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Campylogaster) sparsipunctata Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Carandrena) hebescens Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Cnemidandrena) niveofacies Wood sp. nov., Andrena (incertae sedis) tenebricorpus Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Notandrena) acutidentis Wood sp. nov., Andrena (Poliandrena) breviceps Wood sp. nov., and Andrena (Poliandrena) farinosoides Wood sp. nov. are described and their ecology is discussed. Andrena (Aciandrena) astrella Warncke, 1975 is synonymised with Andrena (Aciandrena) fulica Warncke, 1974 syn. nov. The unknown female of Andrena (Nobandrena) ounifa Warncke, 1974, and the unknown male of Andrena (Poliandrena) guichardi Warncke, 1980 are described. Andrena (incertae sedis) gafsensis Wood sp. nov. from Tunisia is described due to its similarity to Andrena tenebricorpus. Andrena (Poecilandrena) nigriclypeus Wood sp. nov. from Algeria is also described as it was collected within 10 km of the Moroccan border. A further 18 species are recorded in Morocco for the first time. Andrena (Melandrena) nitida (Müller, 1776) and Andrena (Notandrena) nitidiuscula Schenck, 1853 are removed from the Moroccan list due to historic problems in the application of these names to Mediterranean taxa.
["alpine"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the bumblebee fauna of Afghanistan (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Bombus Latreille)
Bumblebees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: genus Bombus Latreille, 1802) constitute an important group of pollinators for many wild plants and crops in north temperate regions and South America. Although knowledge of these insects has been increasing over the last decades, some geographic areas remain poorly studied and additions to the knowledge of their faunas are infrequent. Afghanistan is one example of a country that is currently underrepresented in the scientific literature despite its high species diversity. For this study, more than 420 new occurrence records were gathered for 17 bumblebee species belonging to all eight subgenera recorded in the country, including the first record of a species closely related to the B longipennis group. Additionally, the first standardized database for Afghan bees is launched, which we hope will be enriched in the future to allow further assessments of population trends for the bumblebees of Afghanistan. Finally, the previously published species records for the country are discussed considering the most recent taxonomic revisions of the genus and key perspectives are highlighted for further work in this understudied country and neighboring regions.
["Asian bees"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

The Pleidae (Hemiptera, Heteroptera) of Thailand, with the descriptions of two new species and a discussion of species from Southeast Asia
The family Pleidae is represented in Thailand by four species in the genus Paraplea. Two of these species, P. frontalis and P. liturata, are widespread and relatively common in Southeast Asia. Two other species, P. lateromaculata Cook, sp. nov. and P. melanodera Cook, sp. nov., are described and only known from Thailand. Full descriptions are provided for all four species. The distributions of these species are discussed, with an emphasis on Thailand. Paraplea frontalis, P. liturata, and P. lateromaculata Cook, sp. nov. are relatively widespread within Thailand and have overlapping distributions whereas P. melanodera Cook, sp. nov. appears restricted to small brackish ponds near western coastal areas of peninsular Thailand.
["distribution"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A new species of Kerkia Radoman, 1978 (Caenogastropoda, Hydrobiidae) from Bosnia and Herzegovina
A new species of Kerkia, K. briani Rysiewska & Osikowski, sp. nov. is described from the spring Polički Studenac Vrelo (Crkvina), adjacent to the Trebišnjica River (Bosnia and Herzegovina) collected with Bou-Rouch technique, pumped from an interstitial habitat 50 cm below the bottom of the spring. The shell, female reproductive organs, and the penis are described and illustrated. Mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and nuclear histone H3 partial sequences confirm the distinctness of the new species, and molecularly based phylogenetic relationships of Kerkia are briefly presented.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

The Dacini fruit fly fauna of Sulawesi fits Lydekker’s line but also supports Wallacea as a biogeographic region (Diptera, Tephritidae)
Although there is scientific consensus on most of the major biogeographic regions in the world, the demarcation of the area connecting Southeast Asia with Australia and Oceania remains debated. Two candidate boundaries potentially explain faunistic diversity patterns in the regions: Lydekker’s and Wallace’s lines. The islands in between both ‘lines’ are jointly termed Wallacea, with Sulawesi as the largest landmass. We surveyed Dacini fruit flies (Tephritidae: Dacinae) in Sulawesi between 2016 and 2019 using traps baited with male lures, resulting in 4,517 collected flies. We identified all specimens to species level, which adds 15 new species records to the island, bringing the total number of Dacini species in Sulawesi to 83. The biogeographic affinity of species in the updated checklist reveals a strong connection with former ‘Sunda’ (41% of species); validating Lydekker’s line, but also a high level of endemism (47% of species), confirming the uniqueness of Wallacea as a biogeographic region. We further describe a new species, Bactrocera (Bactrocera) niogreta Doorenweerd, sp. nov. and discuss the taxonomy of several interesting species.
["Bactrocera"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Systematic revision of the genus Peronia Fleming, 1822 (Gastropoda, Euthyneura, Pulmonata, Onchidiidae)
The genus Peronia Fleming, 1822 includes all the onchidiid slugs with dorsal gills. Its taxonomy is revised for the first time based on a large collection of fresh material from the entire Indo-West Pacific, from South Africa to Hawaii. Nine species are supported by mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and nuclear (ITS2 and 28S) sequences as well as comparative anatomy. All types available were examined and the nomenclatural status of each existing name in the genus is addressed. Of 31 Peronia species-group names available, 27 are regarded as invalid (twenty-one synonyms, sixteen of which are new, five nomina dubia, and one homonym), and four as valid: Peronia peronii (Cuvier, 1804), Peronia verruculata (Cuvier, 1830), Peronia platei (Hoffmann, 1928), and Peronia madagascariensis (Labbé, 1934a). Five new species names are created: P. griffithsi Dayrat & Goulding, sp. nov., P. okinawensis Dayrat & Goulding, sp. nov., P. setoensis Dayrat & Goulding, sp. nov., P. sydneyensis Dayrat & Goulding, sp. nov., and P. willani Dayrat & Goulding, sp. nov. Peronia species are cryptic externally but can be distinguished using internal characters, with the exception of P. platei and P. setoensis. The anatomy of most species is described in detail here for the first time. All the secondary literature is commented on and historical specimens from museum collections were also examined to better establish species distributions. The genus Peronia includes two species that are widespread across the Indo-West Pacific (P. verruculata and P. peronii) as well as endemic species: P. okinawensis and P. setoensis are endemic to Japan, and P. willani is endemic to Northern Territory, Australia. Many new geographical records are provided, as well as a key to the species using morphological traits.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

New data on the hoverflies of Morocco (Diptera, Syrphidae) with faunistic and bibliographical inventories
All published records of 148 species of hoverflies from Morocco are reviewed and appropriate literature references, new locality records, and relevant comments are provided for each species. The list is supplemented with records from new field surveys. Two species, Eumerus obliquus (Fabricius, 1805) and Orthonevra brevicornis Loew, 1843 are recorded for the first time in Morocco. The new checklist comprises 150 nominal species from three subfamilies, 14 tribes, and 49 genera.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Two new species of Limonia Meigen, 1803 from Northwest China (Diptera, Limoniidae)
Two new species of Limonia Meigen, 1803, Limonia medexocha sp. nov. and Limonia subcosta sp. nov. are described and illustrated from Northwest China. The following five species are re-described and reported from China for the first time: L. macrostigma (Schummel, 1829), L. phragmitidis (Schrank, 1781), L. stigma (Meigen, 1818), L. sylvicola (Schummel, 1829) and L. taurica (Strobl, 1895). A key to adult males of Limonia from Northwest China is presented.

Orientocardiochiles, a new genus of Cardiochilinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), with descriptions of two new species from Malaysia and Vietnam
For the first time in 21 years, a new genus of cardiochiline braconid wasp, Orientocardiochiles Kang & Long, gen. nov. (type species Orientocardiochiles joeburrowi Kang, sp. nov.), is discovered and described. This genus represents the ninth genus in the Oriental region. Two new species (O. joeburrowi Kang, sp. nov. and O. nigrofasciatus Long, sp. nov.) are described and illustrated, and a key to species of the genus, with detailed images, is added. Diagnostic characters of the new genus are analyzed and compared with several other cardiochiline genera to allow the genus to key out properly using an existing generic treatment. The scientific names validated by this paper and morphological data obtained from this project will be utilized and tested in the upcoming genus-level revision of the subfamily based on combined morphological and molecular data.
["Malaysia"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Two new species of Cerapanorpa (Mecoptera, Panorpidae) from the Qinling and Minshan mountains
Two new species of Cerapanorpa Gao, Ma & Hua, 2016 are described from the Qinling and Minshan mountains, respectively. Cerapanorpa qinlingensis sp. nov. can be readily distinguished from its congeners by the elongate hypovalves and the extremely developed basal process of gonostylus in male genitalia. Cerapanorpa minshana sp. nov. is characterized by its bifurcated parameres and a cluster of long black bristles on the inner apex of the gonocoxite. The number of species of Cerapanorpa is raised to 21. An updated key to species of Cerapanorpa is presented.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies"]

Five new subterranean amphipods of the genus Pseudocrangonyx from Korea (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Pseudocrangonyctidae)
Although the majority of the species belonging to the genus Pseudocrangonyx Akatsuka & Komai, 1922 are found among the subterranean fauna of eastern Asia, the taxonomic knowledge is very poor and only four species have been recorded in Korea. In this study, the morphology of the stygobitic pseudocrangonyctid amphipods from Korean subterranean waters was examined and five new species were identified: Pseudocrangonyx concavus sp. nov. has a characteristic emarginated posteroventral margin of epimeral plate 3; Pseudocrangonyx gracilipes sp. nov. differs from other pseudocrangonyctids by the slender and elongated pereopods and more produced posterodistal corner of epimeral plate 3. Pseudocrangonyx crassus sp. nov. shows the expanded peduncular articles and a reduced flagellum of antenna 2. Pseudocrangonyx minutus sp. nov. is distinguished by more reduced pleopod articles compare to other pseudocrangonyctids. Pseudocrangonyx villosus sp. nov. has the more setose bases of pereopods 3 and 4. Detailed descriptions and illustrations are presented for these five new species.
["Korea"]

Exotic-looking Neotropical Tischeriidae (Lepidoptera) and their host plants
Seven new species of Tischeriidae are described from the Neotropics: Astrotischeria jociui Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. (feeding on Wissadula excelsior (Cav.) C. Presl., Malvaceae), A. atlantica Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. (feeding on Baccharis spicata (Lam.) Baill., Asteraceae), A. cornuata Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. (host plant unknown), Paratischeria guarani Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. (feeding on Elephantopus mollis Kunth, Asteraceae), P. mesoamericana Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. (feeding on Montanoa hibiscifolia Benth., Asteraceae), P. suprafasciata Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. (feeding on Allophyllus edulis (A. St.-Hil., A. Juss. & Cambess.) Hieron. ex Niederl., Sapindaceae), and P. braziliensis Diškus & Stonis, sp. nov. (host plant unknown). Additionally, an updated distribution map of Paratischeria neotropicana (Diškus & Stonis, 2015), which currently has the broadest distribution range among the Neotropical Tischeriidae is provided along with new host-plant data, a list of all recorded host plants in the Neotropics, and a brief discussion on trophic relationships of Tischeriidae. It is hypothesized that host-plant distribution ranges can provide clues to potential distribution ranges of these specialized, monophagous or oligophagous, leaf miners. All new taxa are illustrated with photographs of the adults, their genitalia, and, if available, leaf mines.
["Astrotischeria"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

A new subterranean species and an updated checklist of Strumigenys (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Macao SAR, China, with a key to species of the Greater Bay Area
In the past few decades, sampling of leaf litter with Winkler extractors revealed how abundant and ubiquitous ants from the genus Strumigenys are. It is now known that this genus has the third greatest number of species within the Formicidae family. However, very few subterranean species are known, which may be due to the current under-sampling of the soil stratum. Here, a holistic sampling approach, including the use of subterranean traps, was employed in Macao SAR, China. Subterranean traps allowed the collection of a new cryptic ant species: Strumigenys subterranea Brassard, Leong & Guénard, sp. nov. Moreover, extensive sampling of the leaf litter in secondary forests provided four new species records for the genus. The list of Macanese Strumigenys is here updated, elevating the known diversity in Macao to nine species. Furthermore, to facilitate further research on ants of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a key to the 29 Strumigenys species known from the region is provided. Lastly, recommendations for sampling methods to assess ant biodiversity underground are discussed. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of using extensive sampling methods, and suggests that relatively small patches of secondary forests within cities can hold a surprisingly high diversity as well as some undescribed species.
["ants"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new species of Galleria Fabricius (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae) from Korea based on molecular and morphological characters
The greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella Linnaeus, is well known as a pest of honey bees and for the biodegradation of wax and polyethylene by their larvae. The genus Galleria has long been considered monotypic and found worldwide. A taxonomic study of the genus Galleria is presented based on morphological and molecular characters (COI, CAD, wg). A new species (Galleria similis Roh & Song, sp. nov.) is recognized on the Korean peninsula. The new species is superficially similar to G. mellonella but they can be separated by the structures of hindwing venation and male genitalia. Habitus photographs and illustrations of diagnostic characters are provided.
["cryptic species"]

On the Plakobranchidae (Gastropoda, Sacoglossa) from soft sediment habitats of Koh Tao, Gulf of Thailand, with descriptions of two new species
Research in recent years have provided rapid advances in biogeographic and taxonomic documentation of sea slugs around the world. However, efforts are lacking in surveying most coastlines and habitats in South-East Asia. Recent studies from the Gulf of Thailand have indicated that a wealth of unexplored sea slug diversity and ecology may be gained from an investigation of soft sediment habitats beyond the reef slopes. Additionally, the waters of Koh Tao have been found to host regionally high levels of sea slug diversity with several species awaiting taxonomic clarification. In this work the initial findings of an expanded survey effort from the waters around Koh Tao are provided, with the identity of two soft sediment-associated sacoglossan species in the family Plakobranchidae being investigated. By integrating morphological and molecular analyses, the species Plakobranchus noctisstellatus sp. nov. and Elysia aowthai sp. nov. are described and species complexes surrounding Plakobranchus ocellatus van Hasselt, 1824 and Elysia japonica Eliot, 1913 are discussed. The topics of morphological variability and the cryptic species problem are also discussed.
["biodiversity exploration"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species of Indoganodes Selvakumar, Sivaramakrishnan & Jacobus, 2014 (Ephemeroptera, Teloganodidae) from Sri Lanka
A new species, Indoganodes tschertoprudi sp. nov. is described from Sri Lanka. The genus Indoganodes Selvakumar, Sivaramakrishnan & Jacobus, 2014 was previously known only by one species from the Western Ghats (India). The new species differs from Indoganodes jobini Selvakumar, Sivaramakrishnan & Jacobus, 2014 by the number of denticles on the claws, shape of the femora, shape of the chalazae on the femora, absence of any median tubercles on the terga, and presence of posterolateral processes only on segments VI–IX. The diagnosis of Indoganodes is also emended. Morphological larval affinities of Indoganodes and Ephemerellina Lestage, 1924 and the probable origin and diversification of I. tschertoprudi sp. nov. are discussed.
["Indomalayan realm"]

Descriptions of two new species of the genus Colocasiomyia (Diptera, Drosophilidae) breeding on Rhaphidophora host plants in Yunnan, China
The genus Colocasiomyia de Meijere (Diptera, Drosophilidae) is known to include 30 described and nearly 60 undescribed species classified into six species groups. Among these, the C. gigantea group of seven known species (two Southeast Asian and five Chinese) proved to be peculiar for its specificity on monsteroid (subfamily Monsteroideae, family Araceae) host plants. In this paper, two new species, C. todai Jiao & Gao, sp. nov. and C. liae Jiao & Gao, sp. nov., are described as members of the C. gigantea group with specimens collected from inflorescences of the monsteroid host species Rhaphidophora peepla (Roxb.) Schott and R. crassicaulis Engl. & Krause, respectively, in Yunnan, China. The two new species are delimitated, in comparison with all known species, based on not only morphological but also DNA barcode (partial sequence of the mitochondrial COI, i.e., cytochrome c oxydase subunit I, gene) data. A revised key to all the nine species of the C. gigantea species group is provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Seven new species of jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae) from Xishuangbanna, China
Seven new species of jumping spiders collected from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunnan, China, are diagnosed and described: Charippus yinae sp. nov. (♂♀), Chinattus inflatus sp. nov. (♂), Indomarengo yui sp. nov. (♂), Phintella banna sp. nov. (♂♀), P. mii sp. nov. (♂♀), Simaetha menglun sp. nov. (♂♀) and S. pengi sp. nov. (♂♀). Charippus yinae sp. nov. is the second species of the genus Charippus Thorell, 1895, which was previously known only from one sex.

A new species of snailfish of the genus Paraliparis (Liparidae) from the western North Pacific, with a redescription of the poorly known species Paraliparis mandibularis
A new snailfish, Paraliparis flammeus, is described on the basis of 18 specimens collected off the Pacific coast of Tohoku District, northern Japan at depths of 422–890 m. The new species is distinguished from 28 species of Paraliparis described from the North Pacific by the following combination of characters: mouth oblique; uppermost pectoral-fin base below horizontal through posterior margin of maxillary; 60–63 vertebrae, 54–58 dorsal-fin rays, 50 or 51 anal-fin rays, six principal caudal-fin rays, and 17–20 pectoral-fin rays. A maximum likelihood tree based on 106 COI gene sequences (492 bp) of Paraliparis recovered a monophyletic group comprising P. flammeus, Paraliparis cephalus, and Paraliparis dipterus. Paraliparis cephalus is similar to P. flammeus in having an oblique mouth, but it has four caudal-fin rays (vs six rays) and the uppermost pectoral-fin base above a horizontal through the maxillary posterior margin. Paraliparis dipterus differs from P. flammeus in having a horizontal mouth, 12–14 pectoral-fin rays, and lacking pyloric caeca (present in P. flammeus). Paraliparis flammeus is most similar to the eastern North Pacific Paraliparis mento in having an oblique mouth and the uppermost pectoral-fin base below a horizontal through the posterior margin of the maxillary. However, P. flammeus differs from P. mento in having six caudal-fin rays (vs five rays) and greater preanal length (29.9–35.3% SL vs 26.7–28.5% SL). A poorly known species, Paraliparis mandibularis, previously known from only two specimens collected from Tosa Bay, southern Japan, is redescribed based on the holotype and seven newly collected specimens. It is also similar to the new species but has 27–30 pectoral-fin rays and a shorter pectoral-fin lower lobe (13.8–15.9% SL in P. mandibularis vs 16.7–23.4% SL in P. flammeus).
["Japan"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Uncovering the shell game with barcodes: diversity of meiofaunal Caecidae snails (Truncatelloidea, Caenogastropoda) from Central America
Caecidae is a species-rich family of microsnails with a worldwide distribution. Typical for many groups of gastropods, caecid taxonomy is largely based on overt shell characters. However, identification of species using shell characteristics is problematic due to their rather uniform, tubular shells, the presence of different growth stages, and a high degree of intraspecific variability. In the present study, a first integrative approach to caecid taxonomy is provided using light-microscopic investigation with microsculptural analyses and multi-marker barcoding, in conjunction with molecular species delineation analyses (ABGD, haplotype networks, GMYC, and bPTP). In total 132 specimens of Caecum and Meioceras collected during several sampling trips to Central America were analyzed and delineated into a minimum of 19 species to discuss putative synonyms, and supplement the original descriptions. Molecular phylogenetic analyses suggest Meioceras nitidum and M. cubitatum should be reclassified as Caecum, and the genus Meioceras might present a junior synonym of Caecum. Meiofaunal caecids morphologically resembling C. glabrum from the Northeast Atlantic are a complex of cryptic species with independent evolutionary origins, likely associated with multiple habitat shifts to the mesopsammic environment. Caecum invisibile Egger & Jörger, sp. nov. is formally described based on molecular diagnostic characters. This first integrative approach towards the taxonomy of Caecidae increases the known diversity, reveals the need for a reclassification of the genus Caecum and serves as a starting point for a barcoding library of the family, thereby enabling further reliable identifications of these taxonomically challenging microsnails in future studies.
["DNA taxonomy"]

Euscorpiops lii sp. nov. and a key of the genus Euscorpiops Vachon, 1980 (Scorpiones, Scorpiopidae) from China
A new species, Euscorpiops lii sp. nov., from Xizang (Tibet) in southwest China is described herein. Adult scorpions in this species are principally characterized by yellow-brown colour, a length of less than 40 mm, 17 trichobothria on the external surface of the pedipalp patella and usually six trichobothria on the ventral surface of the pedipalp patella in both sexes. With the description of this new species, the number of known species of the genus Euscorpiops from China is raised to 13 (five species found in Xizang, including the new species, and eight other species in Yunnan). A key to the species of the genus Euscorpiops from China is presented.
["new species"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Biochemical and Structural Characterization"]

Prathapanius fortis, a new genus and new species of Galerucinae from Ecuador (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae)
Prathapanius Viswajyothi & Clark, gen. nov., is described and illustrated. The genus is placed in the chrysomelid section Diabroticites Chapuis (subtribe Diabroticina Chapuis, tribe Luperini Chapuis, subfamily Galerucinae Latreille). It is monobasic, containing Prathapanius fortis Viswajyothi & Clark, sp. nov., from Ecuador. The new genus is briefly compared with Acalymma Barber, Isotes Weise, and Zischkaita Bechyné.
["Diabroticina"]

The Ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) of Sri Lanka: a taxonomic research summary and updated checklist
An updated checklist of the ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of Sri Lanka is presented. These include representatives of eleven of the 17 known extant subfamilies with 341 valid ant species in 79 genera. Lioponera longitarsus Mayr, 1879 is reported as a new species country record for Sri Lanka. Notes about type localities, depositories, and relevant references to each species record are given. Accounts of the dubious and some undetermined species from Sri Lanka are also provided. 82 species (24%) are endemic whereas 18 species that are non-native to Sri Lanka are recorded. The list provides a synthesis of the regional taxonomical work carried out to date and will serve as a baseline for future studies on the ant fauna of this biodiversity hotspot.

A new genus and species of narrow-range millipede (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Dalodesmidae) from Tasmania, Australia
Kebodesmus zonarius gen. nov. et sp. nov. is only known from a small area on the Great Western Tiers in northern Tasmania, Australia, and like species of Paredrodesmus Mesibov, 2003 has no detectable paranota on the diplosegments. The gonopod telopodite of the new species is divided into a large, lateral, cowl-like structure, a solenomere and a medial branch with three processes.

The Dolichopodidae (Diptera) of Montserrat, West Indies
The long-legged flies (Dolichopodidae) of the island of Montserrat in the Lesser Antilles have been surveyed and include 63 species in 27 genera. The following eleven new species are described and illustrated: Amblypsilopus marskeae sp. nov., Medetera iviei sp. nov., Medetera montserratensis sp. nov., Systenus ladonnae sp. nov., Thrypticus mediofuscus sp. nov., Chrysotus antillensis sp. nov., Chrysotus callichromoides sp. nov., Chrysotus interfrons sp. nov., Chrysotus montserratensis sp. nov., Diaphorus robinsoni sp. nov., and Sympycnus montserratensis sp. nov. Six species have only been found on Montserrat (ca. 10% endemicity). Keys are provided to the genera and species on Montserrat, their known distribution summarized, and additional new island records provided for many species. Asyndetus wirthi Robinson is synonymized with A. interruptus (Loew) and Achradocera apicalis (Aldrich) is removed from synonymy with A. barbata (Loew). Diaphorus flavipes Aldrich is transferred to Chrysotus as a new combination. A new replacement name, Chrysotus milvadu nom. nov., is provided for the Nearctic Chrysotus parvulus Van Duzee. Lectotypes are designated for Achradocera apicalis (Aldrich) and Asyndetus fratellus Aldrich. The fauna of Montserrat is summarized and compared with that of Dominica. Collecting methods are compared and threats to the dolichopodid fauna of Montserrat discussed.

Quasitagalis afonsoi, a new genus and a new species of Saicinae (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) inhabiting a cave in Brazil, with an updated key to the genera of Saicinae of the New World
Quasitagalis afonsoi gen. et sp. nov. of Saicinae (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) is described based on a male and three female specimens collected in a cave in the State of Tocantins, Brazil. Additionally, some characteristics from two nymphs of different instars of the same species are also recorded. An updated key to the New World genera of Saicinae is provided.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Elephantomyia crane fly (Diptera, Limoniidae) from Jeju Island, South Korea
A new species of crane fly (Diptera, Limoniidae), Elephantomyia (Elephantomyia) hallasana Podenas & Podeniene, sp. nov., from Jeju Island, South Korea is described. Adult and larval characters are illustrated. Elephantomyia (E.) hallasana sp. nov. is the only species of the genus Elephantomyia Osten Sacken, 1860 recorded from Jeju Island, South Korea. Habitat, elevation range, and seasonality data are presented. Distributional notes on E. subterminalis Alexander, 1954 in the Far East of Russia (Khabarovskiy and Primorskiy regions) are discussed. An identification key for all Eastern Palaearctic species of subgenus E. (Elephantomyia) is presented.
["Eastern Palaearctic"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

‘Henicorhynchus’ thaitui, a new species of cavefish from Central Vietnam (Teleostei, Cyprinidae)
‘Henicorhynchus’ thaitui sp. nov. is described from a subterranean stream in a karst cave in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province, Central Vietnam. It differs from all congeners in having a pale pink body in life, smaller eyes with diameter less than the maxillary barbel length, and two pairs of barbels, the maxillary barbel being much longer than the rostral barbel.
["Cypriniformes"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Catalogue of herpetological specimens of the Ewha Womans University Natural History Museum (EWNHM), Republic of Korea
The herpetology collection of the Ewha Womans University Natural History Museum (EWNHM) represents one of the oldest and largest institutional collections in the Republic of Korea. The specimens deposited in the EWNHM represent a major historical collection of the native herpetofauna, both in species diversity and time span. However, the full inventory of the herpetology collection has never been conducted and thus the collection has received little attention from researchers. Here, the first full account of the herpetology specimens held at the EWNHM is provided, with voucher information for all documented specimens to make the collection accessible for future studies.

Notes on two closely related spider species of the Pholcus phungiformes species group (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Beijing, China
The Pholcus phungiformes species group is highly diverse and currently contains 53 species. In this study, Pholcus tongyaoi Wang & Yao, sp. nov. (male, female) from Huairou District, Beijing, China is described while similar congener Pholcus lexuancanhi Yao, Pham & Li, 2012 from neighboring Haidian District (type locality) is redescribed; the female of P. lexuancanhi is described for the first time. In addition, the DNA barcode COI for the two species was obtained to estimate p-distance.
["daddy-long-leg spider"]

A new species in the Tetramorium solidum-group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) from the Richtersveld National Park, South Africa, with an assessment of threats and conservation status
Eight specimens of an undescribed species of Tetramorium in the T. solidum-group were collected by pitfall trapping during an environmental impact assessment survey of the Oena Diamond Mine in the Richtersveld National Park, South Africa. The new species is most closely related to T. grandinode Santschi, 1913 but can be distinguished from this species by the distinctly different patterns of costulate sculpture on the mesosomal dorsum and petiole node, as well as the different forms of the petiole and postpetiole nodes, both of which in the new species are relatively narrower and longer and with no (petiole) or reduced (postpetiole) lateral extensions. Tetramorium nama sp. nov. is described here and a modification to the key presented by Mbanyana et al. (2018) to accommodate the additional species is provided. The potential threats to the species posed by alluvial diamond mining, livestock farming and climate change are discussed. A preliminary assessment of the conservation status of Tetramorium nama sp. nov is presented and suggests that, dependant on determination of the range of the species, it is likely to be classified as Vulnerable (VU) or Endangered (EN) under IUCN Red List criterion B1ab(iii).
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

On some squat lobsters from India (Decapoda, Anomura, Munididae), with description of a new species of Paramunida Baba, 1988
Squat lobster specimens belonging to the family Munididae were recently collected along the southwestern coast of the mainland of India and in the Andaman Islands. The specimens belong to two known species, Agononida prolixa (Alcock, 1894) and Munida compacta Macpherson, 1997, and a new species, Paramunida bineeshi sp. nov. We here redescribe A. prolixa and describe and figure the new species. Munida compacta is newly recorded from India, and we figure the live coloration. In addition, molecular and phylogenetic analyses of two mitochondrial markers (16S rRNA and COI) revealed the phylogenetic relationships of M. compacta and P. bineeshi sp. nov. with their most closely related congeners. The genetic similarity among the individuals of M. compacta from different locations is also addressed.
["Agononida"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new species of Nicippe from the Bering Sea (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Pardaliscidae), with a redescription of N. tumida
A new pardaliscid amphipod, Nicippe beringensis, is described from the Bering Sea at depths between 520 and 536 m, and N. tumida Bruzelius, 1859 is redescribed based on specimens from Fredrikshald, Norway, near the species’ type locality. Nucleotide sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) from the holotype and a paratype of N. beringensis sp. nov. are reported. While N. beringensis sp. nov. is similar to N. tumida, it differs from the latter in having an asetose palp article 1 of maxilla 1, a gnathopod 1 coxa with a straight distal edge, and in the posterior margin of the basis of gnathopods 1 and 2, and pereopod 3, being heavily setose in females. A key to species of Nicippe is provided.

A revision of the Aleiodes bakeri (Brues) species subgroup of the A. seriatus species group with the descriptions of 18 new species from the Neotropical Region
The Aleiodes bakeri (Brues) species subgroup of the A. seriatus species group is defined based on two previously described species, A. bakeri and A. nigristemmaticum (Enderlein), and is greatly expanded in this paper with an identification key, descriptions, and illustrations of 18 new species from the Neotropical Region: A. andinus Shaw & Shimbori, sp. nov.; angustus Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; asenjoi Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; bahiensis Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; barrosi Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; brevicarina Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; coariensis Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; goiasensis Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; gonodontivorus Shaw & Shimbori, sp. nov.; hyalinus Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; inga Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; joaquimi Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; lidiae Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; mabelae Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; maculosus Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; ovatus Shimbori & Shaw, sp. nov.; santarosensis Shaw & Shimbori, sp. nov.; and taurus Shimbori & Penteado-Dias, sp. nov. It is hypothesized that the A. bakeri species subgroup is a monophyletic lineage within the larger and probably artificial A. seriatus species group (those Aleiodes with a comb of flat setae at the apex of the hind tibia), and can be distinguished from other members of the seriatus group by having the hind wing vein r present, although weakly indicated; the hind wing marginal cell suddenly widened at junction of veins RS and r; the subbasal cell of the fore wing mostly glabrous but often with two rows of short setae subapically; glabrous regions of the wings also commonly found in the first subdiscal, discal, and basal cells of the fore wing, and the basal cell of hind wing; ocelli quite large, with the width of a lateral ocellus being distinctly larger than the ocellar-ocular distance; and being relatively large Aleiodes species with body almost entirely brownish yellow or reddish brown. In addition, a new replacement name, Aleiodes buntikae Shimbori & Shaw, nom. nov., is proposed for the species formerly called Aleiodes (Hemigyroneuron) bakeri Butcher & Quicke, 2011.
["Aleiodini"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Revision of Nagiella Munroe (Lepidoptera, Crambidae), with the description of a new species from China
The genus Nagiella was studied using morphological and DNA barcode data. Nagiella bispina sp. nov. is described as a new species, and N. hortulatoides Munroe is recorded in China for the first time. The diagnosis of this genus is revised, and the genitalia description of N. quadrimaculalis (Kollar and Redtenbacher) and N. inferior (Hampson) are given in English for the first time. Nosophora incomitata (Swinhoe) stat. rev. is removed from the synonym of N. quadrimaculalis. Photographs of the habitus and genitalia as well as COI DNA Barcode data of these four species are provided.

Identification of Delia spp. (Robineau-Desvoidy) (Diptera, Anthomyiidae) and its cruciferous hosts in Mexico
Soil pests of cruciferous crops in Mexico have been gaining importance in recent years; such is the case of Delia spp. (Robineau-Desvoidy) (Diptera, Anthomyiidae), of which, to date, there are no studies on the correct identification of associated species, as well as the range of hosts. In an integrated pest management program, it is essential to know this information to design and implement adequate phytosanitary measures. Plants infested by Delia spp. were collected in the states of Guanajuato, Puebla, and Mexico from June to November 2017 and March to December 2018 in commercial plantations of cruciferous crops (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica, botrytis and capitata), B. napus L., and Raphanus sativus L.) as well as some cruciferous weeds (R. raphanistrum L., Sisymbrium irio L., B. campestris L., Capsella bursa-pastoris L., and Lepidium virginicum L.) in the edges of these crops. The two species found in this study, Delia planipalpis (Stein) and Delia platura (Meigen), identified using male genitalia was corroborated by molecular techniques. Both species emerged from all the sampled hosts, except for C. bursa-pastoris and L. virginicum. The association of the two species in cruciferous crops and weeds, provides valuable information for the management of these insects not only in cruciferous crops but other ones that are strongly attacked by D. platura.
["Male genitalia"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

A new species of Periclistus Foerster, 1869 from China and review of the tribe Diastrophini (Hymenoptera, Cynipoidea, Cynipidae)
A new species of cynipid gall wasps, Periclistus orientalis Pang, Liu & Zhu, sp. nov., is herein described from Hunan, China in the tribe Diastrophini (Hymenoptera: Cynipoidea: Cynipidae). The phylogenetic relationship between Periclistus and all the other Diastrophini genera, except the recently described Xestophanopsis Pujade-Villar et al., 2019, was analyzed using a fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene and a fragment of the nuclear 28S gene. A taxonomic key to the known genera of Diastrophini and an updated taxonomic key to the known Eastern Palearctic species of Periclistus were provided. In addition, an updated checklist of the known species of the genus from the world is given.
["cynipid gall wasp"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Research on scale insects", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Heteroonops (Araneae, Oonopidae) spiders from Hispaniola: the discovery of ten new species
The Caribbean biodiversity hotspot harbors vast reserves of undiscovered species. A large-scale inventory of Caribbean arachnids (CarBio) is uncovering new species across the arachnid tree of life, and allowing inference of the evolutionary history that has generated this diversity. Herein we describe ten new species of Heteroonops (Oonopidae, or goblin spiders), from Hispaniola: H. scapula sp. nov., H. jurassicus sp. nov., H. aylinalegreae sp. nov., H. verruca sp. nov., H. renebarbai sp. nov., H. yuma sp. nov., H. carlosviquezi sp. nov., H. gabrielsantosi sp. nov., H. solanllycarreroae sp. nov. and H. constanza sp. nov. The occurrence of the pantropical type species Heteroonops spinimanus (Simon, 1891) is reported and new localities are given for: H. validus (Bryant, 1948), H. vega (Platnick & Dupérré, 2009) and H. castelloides (Platnick & Dupérré, 2009). Molecular phylogenies indicate substantial genetic divergence separating these taxa. This work adds to evidence that the depth of diversity in the Caribbean biodiversity hotspot is particularly striking for tiny taxa living in leaf litter.
["biodiversity hotspot"]

Metapogonia snizeki sp. nov. and a previously unknown female of M. elgonensis (Burgeon, 1945) (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae, Diplotaxini)
Metapogonia snizeki sp. nov. from northeastern Tanzania is described. The new species is compared with the morphologically closely similar species M. elgonensis (Burgeon, 1945). A previously unknown female of M. elgonensis is described, and the species is recorded from Uganda for the first time. Relevant diagnostic characters (parameres, shape of male protarsomeres, female pygidium) are illustrated.
["Mount Elgon"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Taxonomic revision of the Afrotropical Agabus raffrayi species group with the description of four new species (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
We revise the Afrotropical Agabus raffrayi species group, motivated by the discovery of new diversity in Kenya and South Africa. Whilst Agabus is mainly a holarctic genus, the Agabus raffrayi group is restricted to high altitude regions of eastern Africa and temperate parts of South Africa, from where we describe the southernmost Agabus in the world. The following new species are introduced: Agabus anguluverpus sp. nov. from Mount Kenya in central Kenya, Agabus austellus sp. nov. a widespread species in South Africa, Agabus riberae sp. nov. from the Kamiesberg and northeastern Cederberg ranges in the Northern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa and Agabus agulhas sp. nov. from the Agulhas Plain, Western Cape Province, South Africa. We provide a distribution map, a determination key for males, quantitative measurements of diagnostic characters, habitus photos and detailed photos of male genitalia for all described species in the group, as well as images of diagnostic characters and habitats. The presence or absence of an elongated section between the subapical broadening and the base of the apical and subapical teeth of the male aedeagus is a useful novel character, first revealed by our study. In contrast with the most recent revision of Afrotropical Agabus, we show that Agabus ruwenzoricus Guignot, 1936 is restricted to eastern Africa; South African records of this species having been based on misidentifications, no species of the group being common to southern and eastern Africa. We speculate that the raffrayi group may display phylogenetic niche conservatism, being restricted, as an originally temperate taxon, to higher elevations in tropical eastern Africa, but occurring at lower altitudes in temperate South Africa.
["Afromontane"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Rugitermes tinto: A new termite (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae) from the Andean region of Colombia
The imago and soldier castes of a new Rugitermes Holmgren, 1911 species, R. tinto sp. nov. are described. It is the ninth species of Rugitermes from South America and the first record of this genus from Colombia. Unlike its congeners, the soldier of R. tinto has very dark head capsule pigmentation and acute protuberances projecting from frontolateral ridges.
["frontolateral ridges"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Diversity of benthic marine mollusks of the Strait of Magellan, Chile (Polyplacophora, Gastropoda, Bivalvia): a historical review of natural history
An increase in richness of benthic marine mollusks towards high latitudes has been described on the Pacific coast of Chile in recent decades. This considerable increase in diversity occurs specifically at the beginning of the Magellanic Biogeographic Province. Within this province lies the Strait of Magellan, considered the most important channel because it connects the South Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. These characteristics make it an interesting area for marine research; thus, the Strait of Magellan has historically been the area with the greatest research effort within the province. However, despite efforts there is no comprehensive and updated list of the diversity of mollusks within the Strait of Magellan up to now. This study consisted of a complete bibliographic review of all available literature that included samples of mollusks in the Strait of Magellan. More than 300 articles were reviewed, covering 200 years of scientific knowledge. There were 2579 records belonging to 412 taxa, of which 347 are valid species. Of the total valid species, 44 (~13%) are considered of doubtful presence in the Strait. This work increases the known richness of mollusks of the Strait of Magellan by 228%; it is also the first report that integrates all available diversity studies of the three most speciose classes of benthic mollusks (Gastropoda, Bivalvia and Polyplacophora) from the Strait of Magellan.
["benthos"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Catalogue, distribution, taxonomic notes, and conservation of the Western Palearctic endemic hunchback beetles (Tenebrionidae, Misolampus)
Hunchback darkling beetles of the Ibero-Maghrebian genus Misolampus Latreille, 1807 (Tenebrionidae, Stenochiinae) encompass six species: M. gibbulus (Herbst, 1799), M. goudotii Guérin-Méneville, 1834, M. lusitanicus Brême, 1842, M. ramburii Brême, 1842, M. scabricollis Graells, 1849, and M. subglaber Rosenhauer, 1856. Previously known distribution ranges of the species were delineated using many old records, the persistence of such populations being questionable under the current situation of global biodiversity loss. Additionally, the status of geographically isolated populations of the genus have been the subject of taxonomic controversy. An exhaustive bibliographical revision and field search was undertaken, and the Misolampus collection of the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC) was revised. The aims are to (i) provide an updated geographic distribution range for the species of Misolampus; (ii) to determine the taxonomic status of controversial populations; (iii) to provide a catalogue for Misolampus; and (iv) to discuss the conservation status of these saproxylic beetles. As a result, a catalogue including synonymies and type localities, geographical records, diagnoses, and information on natural history for all species of Misolampus is presented. The results reveal that the distribution ranges of the species of Misolampus have not undergone a reduction in the last century, and indicate the presence of the genus in areas where it had never been recorded before. The morphological variability of M. goudotii drove the proposal of different taxa that are here formally synonymised as follows: M. goudotii Guérin-Méneville, 1834 = M. erichsoni Vauloger de Beaupré, 1900, syn. nov. = M. peyerimhoffi Antoine, 1926, syn. nov.
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Megacraspedus cottiensis sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae) from northern Italy – a case of taxonomic confusion
Megacraspedus cottiensis sp. nov. is described from the western Alps (prov. Torino, Italy). The dorsal habitus and genitalia for both the male and brachypterous female are provided. The new species belongs to the M. faunierensis species group based on genitalia morphology and DNA barcodes, and was hitherto confused with M. neli Huemer & Karsholt, 2018 from the southwestern Alps. However, it clearly differs in morphology and DNA barcode sequences from that species and from M. faunierensis Huemer & Karsholt, 2018. The new species is suspected of being a regional endemic of the Cottian Alps.
["brachyptery"]
["Recycled Aggregate Concrete Performance", "Tailings Management and Properties", "Engineering and Material Science Research"]

A new species of Nephus (Nephus) (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) described from Reunion Island
We report here a new species belonging to Nephus (Nephus) Mulsant. Nephus (Nephus) apolonia sp. nov. was collected in the Reunion Island (Mascarene Archipelago, Indian Ocean). We describe this new species and redescribe and illustrate three other Nephus species already known from Reunion: Nephus (Nephus) oblongosignatus Mulsant, 1850, Nephus (Geminosipho) reunioni (Fürsch, 1974) and Nephus (Nephus) voeltzkowi Weise, 1910. Furthermore, we present a phylogenetic tree for these four species and calculate the genetic distances between them, using high-throughput DNA sequencing of the mitochondrial genome. The similar external morphology of N. apolonia sp. nov. and N. voeltzkowi very probably explains why individuals from the first species have been mistakenly identified as the latter and were not recognized as different until now. Other than external and genitalia traits, the present study provides molecular evidence confirming these are indeed two different species.
["Coccinelloidea"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

New species of caddisflies (Trichoptera, Ecnomidae, Polycentropodidae, Psychomyiidae) from Mekong tributaries, Laos
Four new species of caddisflies are added to the fauna of Mekong River, Laos. Described and illustrated are Ecnomus petchanaae sp. nov. and E. boonsawaengae sp. nov. (Ecnomidae), Polyplectropus proukaewi sp. nov. (Polycentropodidae), and Psychomyia srichanai sp. nov. (Psychomyiidae) from tributaries of the Mekong River, Laos. Ecnomus petchanaae sp. nov. can be distinguished by the characters of the superior appendages, which are slender and club-shaped in lateral view. In E. boonsawaengae sp. nov., the inferior appendages are tubular with a concave incision subapically and truncated apex. Polyplectropus proukaewi sp. nov. has the distal process of the dorsal branch of the inferior appendage close to the base of the inferior appendages and the length of the process is half of inferior appendages. Psychomyia srichanai sp. nov. can be distinguished by the structure of the dorsal branches of the harpagones and apical sclerite. The outer branches of the harpago in the latter species are bifurcated and bent 90° degrees outward, and the inner dorsal branches of harpago are curved outward. The apical sclerite is indiscernible.
["aquatic insects"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A new Terrarana frog of genus Pristimantis from an unexplored cloud forest from the eastern Andes, Colombia
A new species of Pristimantis (Craugastoridae, subgenus Pristimantis) is described from a relict and unexplored cloud forest in the western slope from Cordillera Oriental of the Colombian Andes. The specific name was chosen by consensus expert scientists and local people. Pristimantis chamezensis sp. nov. is easily distinguished from congeneric species by having a gray iris with black reticulations in life, subconical tubercles on the upper eyelid, the chin edged with irregular, dark-brown blotches, and conical heel tubercles. The phylogenetic analyses suggest that the origin and radiation of its clade may have occurred in the highlands. With the description of P. chamezensis sp. nov., we identify 14 species distributed throughout the eastern slope of the Andes that are associated with the Orinoco Basin.
["Casanare"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Twenty-eight new species of the spider genus Merizocera Fage, 1912 (Araneae, Psilodercidae) from South and Southeast Asia
Previously, the genus Merizocera Fage, 1912 comprised only seven species from Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. In this study, 28 new species are described from South and Southeast Asia: M. baoshan Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. betong Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. colombo Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. galle Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. hponkanrazi Li, sp. nov. (♂), M. kachin Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. kandy Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. mandai Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. krabi Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. kurunegala Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. lincang Li, sp. nov. (♀), M. mainling Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. nyingchi Li, sp. nov. (♀), M. peraderiya Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. phuket Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. putao Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. ranong Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. ratnapura Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. salawa Li, sp. nov. (♂), M. tak Li, sp. nov. (♀), M. tanintharyi Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. tengchong Li, sp. nov. (♂), M. thenna Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. uva Li, sp. nov. (♀), M. wenshan Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. wui Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), M. yala Li, sp. nov. (♀), and M. yuxi Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). Among them the genus Merizocera is reported for the first time from China, Myanmar, and Singapore.

Morphology of the immature stages of Dasyhelea silvatica Wang, Zhang & Yu with redescriptions of adults (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)
The immatures of the biting midge Dasyhelea silvatica are described and illustrated for the first time and a complete description of the adult male and female are provided using scanning electron and compound microscopes. The specimens were collected from flooded soil near a pond in Guizhou Province, China, and reared in the laboratory.
["Adult"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

A new Caribbean species of Hylaeanura Arlé, 1966 (Collembola, Neanuridae, Pseudachorutinae)
We here describe a new Collembola species, Hylaeanura emiliae sp. nov., from the Luquillo Experimental Forest in Puerto Rico. We describe H. emiliae sp. nov. as a distinct species based on the enlarged sensilla s3 in antennal segment IV, the absence of modified sensorial setae in abdominal segment IV and the presence of four setae on each dens. An updated key with illustrations for the identification of worldwide species of the genus is included.
["Island"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

Two new species of the Exocelina ekari group from New Guinea with strongly modified male antennae (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Two new species of the genus Exocelina Broun, 1886: E. athesphatos sp. nov. and E. tsinga sp. nov. are described from New Guinea and placed into the E. ekari group based on the structure of their male genitalia. The two species are very similar with respect to their external morphology and characterised by almost identical, strongly modified male antennae. However, they can easily be separated by the shape and setation of the median lobe and paramere. Based on morphological similarity and results of a molecular phylogenetic analysis, we suggest these are sister species. Both of them have been collected on the southern slopes of the Central Range (the spine of New Guinea), with a distance of ca. 380 km straight line between the collecting localities.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Taxonomic studies on the genus Trilacuna (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Myanmar
Six species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 are reported from Myanmar, including four new species: T. besucheti Grismado & Piacentini, 2014 (♂♀), T. changzi Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. hponkanrazi Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. loebli Grismado & Piacentini, 2014 (♀), T. triseta Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂), and T. zhigangi Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♀). Morphological descriptions and photographic illustrations of the new species are given. All types are preserved in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing (IZCAS).
["goblin spiders"]

Moss-inhabiting flea beetles in the Philippines (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Alticinae)
The Philippine islands are one of the key biodiversity hotspots in the Indo-Pacific area. Knowledge of moss-inhabiting flea beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae), a diverse and ecologically and morphologically enigmatic group in the Philippines is described. Six species from the Philippines are recorded, belonging to three genera: Benedictus luzonicus Sprecher-Uebersax et al., 2009 (recorded from the Philippines previously), Ivalia antennata sp. nov., I. caligulata sp. nov. and I. postfasciata (Chen, 1934), comb. nov. (transferred from Chabria Jacoby, 1887), Cangshanaltica mindanaoensis sp. nov., and C. luzonica sp. nov. Cox1 barcode sequences of Ivalia antennata and Cangshanaltica mindanaoensis are presented. Biogeography and diversity of moss-inhabiting flea beetles in the Philippines are discussed.
["Chrysomelidae"]

Two new species of Hymenaphorura Bagnall, 1948 (Collembola, Onychiuridae) from Romania and an updated key to the genus
Two new species of the genus Hymenaphorura from Romania, H. urbana sp. nov. and H. kalindera sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Hymenaphorura urbana has a postantennal organ (PAO) with 13–15 simple vesicles, abdominal terga I–III with subequal setae p2 and p3, abdominal tergum V granular area with 3+3 distinct, long macrosetae, and H. kalindera sp. nov. has PAO with 9–12 simple vesicles, one border seta, abdominal terga I–III with setae p2 slightly longer than setae p3, abdominal tergum V granular area with 4+4 distinct macrosetae. Remarks on H. subsimilis Bagnall, 1948 are given. An updated key for the world distributed species of Hymenaphorura is presented.
["Hymenaphorurini"]

A new cave amphipod, Pseudocrangonyx wonkimi sp. nov. (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Pseudocrangonyctidae), from the Korean Peninsula
A new species of pseudocrangonyctid amphipod, Pseudocrangonyx wonkimi sp. nov., was found in the groundwater of a cave in the southwestern Korean Peninsula. Pseudocrangonyx wonkimi sp. nov. is morphologically most closely related to P. joolaei Lee et al., 2020. However, P. wonkimi is clearly distinguished from P. joolaei by lacking sternal gills, fewer setae on maxilla 1 inner plate, fewer serrate robust setae on the carpus of the gnathopods, lacking bifid setae on the inner ramus of pleopod 3, and fewer articles of rami on pleopod 3. We also determined sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of P. wonkimi sp. nov. for molecular diagnosis. From the molecular analysis based on COI sequences, P. wonkimi showed the closest relationship with P. joolaei with 15.1% genetic distance.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Revision of the genus Epiparbattia Caradja, 1925 (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Pyraustinae), based on morphology and molecular data
The genus Epiparbattia Caradja, 1925 is revised based on general appearance, including genitalia. A new species, Epiparbattia multispinalis Zhang & Chen, sp. nov. is described. The external characters and genitalia morphology of all species are figured. The phylogeny of Epiparbattia species is investigated using molecular data. Monophyly of the genus is well supported by phylogenetic analysis based on sequence data of COI, 16S rRNA, EF-1α and 28S rRNA gene regions.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant and animal studies"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the clown beetle fauna of Lebanon, with a key to all species (Coleoptera, Histeridae)
The occurrence of histerids in Lebanon has received little specific attention. Hence, an aim to enrich the knowledge of this coleopteran family through a survey across different Lebanese regions in this work. Seventeen species belonging to the genera Atholus Thomson, 1859, Hemisaprinus Kryzhanovskij, 1976, Hister Linnaeus, 1758, Hypocacculus Bickhardt, 1914, Margarinotus Marseul, 1853, Saprinus Erichson, 1834, Tribalus Erichson, 1834, and Xenonychus Wollaston, 1864 were recorded. Specimens were sampled mainly with pitfall traps baited with ephemeral materials like pig dung, decayed fish, and pig carcasses. Several species were collected by sifting soil detritus, sand cascading, and other specialized techniques. Six newly recorded species for the Lebanese fauna are the necrophilous Hister sepulchralis Erichson, 1834, Hemisaprinus subvirescens (Ménétriés, 1832), Saprinus (Saprinus) externus (Fischer von Waldheim, 1823), Saprinus (Saprinus) figuratus Marseul, 1855, and Saprinus (Saprinus) niger (Motschulsky, 1849) all associated with rotting fish and dung, and the psammophilous Xenonychus tridens (Jacquelin du Val, 1853). With the exception of Hister sepulchralis, all these taxa belong to the Saprininae subfamily. A most likely undescribed species of Tribalus (Tribalus) (Tribalinae) has also been collected in detritus at wet places near rivers in Lebanon. Because of the complexity of the genus Tribalus, with possible numerous new species present in the circum-Mediterranean area, the Lebanese species is not described herein, pending a revision of the genus. This study advocates further research aimed at improving taxonomic and ecological knowledge of this coleopteran family in Lebanon. The number of Histeridae species currently known from Lebanon stands at 41; a key to all species including images is included.
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

The first survey of the beetles (Coleoptera) of the Farasan Archipelago of the southern Red Sea, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Farasan Archipelago is a group of small coral islands and islets in the southern Red Sea, offshore of the southwestern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). These islands are internationally important as breeding sites for turtles and bird species and regionally for its threatened, rare, and endemic flora and other fauna. The beetles (Coleoptera) of the Archipelago have not been previously surveyed. This study presents the first data on the beetle fauna based on a recent survey of the Farasan Archipelago. In total, 179 beetle species (including three synanthropic species) in 145 genera and 31 coleopteran families were determined. The Carabidae are represented by 31 species, followed by the Tenebrionidae (22 species), Chrysomelidae (17 species), Scarabaeidae (13 species), and Coccinellidae (12 species). The genus Lasiocera Dejean, 1831 and the species Amblystomus villiersanus Bruneau de Miré, 1991 (Carabidae) are new for the beetle fauna of the Arabian Peninsula, and eighteen species are new country records for KSA. Sand dune habitats on the islands were inhabited by the greatest number of species in comparison with other habitats. Zoogeographically, the beetle fauna of the Archipelago was dominated by the representatives of the Saharo-Arabian and Afrotropical elements (74 spp., 41.0%). Fourteen species (7.8%) were recognized as cosmopolitan and subcosmopolitan. No species was known to be exclusively endemic to Farasan Archipelago. Eighteen species (10.1%) were endemic to Arabian Peninsula and KSA. Approximately 64.8% (116 spp.) of the archipelago beetle species is found on the KSA mainland and is most closely allied to the south and southwestern KSA regions (sharing 91 spp.). Comparisons of the beetle faunas of the Farasan and Socotra archipelagos indicate that 30 families, 70 genera, and 28 species are shared.

A new species of the genus Acanthosaura (Squamata, Agamidae) from Yunnan, China, with comments on its conservation status
A new species of Acanthosaura from Yunnan, China, is described based on morphological and genetic data. The new species can be separated from all other species of the genus by having a different shape of the black eye patch, a different coloration of the postorbital and occipital spines and nuchal crest, and a different color of the gular pouch. Genetically, uncorrected sequence divergences of COI between the new species and investigated congeners ranged from 16.12% to 24.11%. The conservation status of the new species is also discussed.
["endangered"]

Eidophasia assmanni sp. nov., the first alpine representative of the genus, detected in the Russian Altai Mountains (Lepidoptera, Plutellidae)
Eidophasia assmanni sp. nov., a new species of Plutellidae from the alpine zone of Russian Altai Mountains, is described from diagnostic morphology and DNA barcodes. Male adult and genitalia are illustrated, whereas the female sex remains unknown. The species inhabits alpine scree with patchy herbaceous plants and is considered as possible endemic species of the Altai Mountains. An updated checklist of the 13 global Eidophasia Stephens, 1842 species is provided. The likely polyphyly of the genus is discussed from molecular data of the barcode region of the mt COI gene.

DNA barcoding and hypopygium shape support delimitation of sympatric Dissomphalus species (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae) from the Atlantic rainforest
Dissomphalus is a cosmopolitan genus of Bethylidae and has 269 Neotropical species divided into 32 species-groups, mostly defined by the genital and the tergal process structures. Dissomphalus rectilineus and D. concavatus are sympatric species in the ulceratus species-group. Members of the species-group share many similarities in the morphology of the head, hypopygium, tergal process and genitalia, but may be distinguished by the structure of the hypopygium. Previous studies have found intermediate structures of the hypopygium in the sympatric areas and raised questions about the distinctiveness of these two species. We sequenced 340 bp of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase I of 29 specimens from Brazil and Paraguay, calculated the genetic divergence among specimens, and recovered the phylogenetic relationships between taxa. In addition, we compared the morphology of the hypopygium to evaluate its use as a species-specific diagnostic character using the genetic divergence values. We recovered three well-supported monophyletic groups (intraclade divergence from 1.3 to 13.4%) and three hypopygium morphologies associated with each clade, two of them associated with D. rectilineus and D. concavatus (as described in the literature); the third one is new, not associated with any known species. The divergence between the D. rectilineus and D. concavatus clades was 19%, while the third clade is divergent from each species by 19–20%. If fully described, the hypopygium shape associated with the COI sequence will represent an extremely promising approach to the diagnosis of Dissomphalus species.

Blakealtica, a new genus of flea beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini) from the Dominican Republic
Blakealtica fusca a new genus and new species from the Dominican Republic is described and illustrated. In addition to external features, beetle thoracic sclerites (including metendosternite) are fully examined and illustrated. Blakealtica is similar to Monomacra Chevrolat,1836 and related genera (Disonycha Chevrolat, 1836, Hemilactica Blake, 1937, Myrmeconycha Konstantinov & Tishechkin, 2017, Parchicola Bechyne & Bechyne, 1975, Pseudodisonycha Blake, 1954, and Rosalactica Bechyne & Bechyne, 1977) as all studied representatives of these genera are missing the sclerotized vaginal palpi or have them membranous and otherwise poorly developed. This feature may be unique for the Monomacra group of genera as it has not been seen anywhere else in flea beetles.
["Monomacra"]

Trioza turouguei sp. nov. (Hemiptera, Psylloidea, Triozidae), a new psyllid species from Taiwan inducing pea-shaped stem galls on Cinnamomum osmophloeum (Lauraceae), with notes on its galling biology
Trioza turouguei sp. nov., a new species of jumping plant lice (Hemiptera, Triozidae) from Taiwan, is described and illustrated based on adults and immatures. The latter induce pea-shaped galls on the stems of Cinnamomum osmophloeum Kaneh. (Lauraceae). The gall phenology of the new species is described. A list of species of Triozidae associated with Cinnamomum in the Old World is provided. The following nomenclatorial acts are proposed: Trioza inflata Li, 1992 = Trioza xiangicamphorae Li, 1992, syn. nov.; Siphonaleyrodes formosanus Takahashi, 1932, stat. rev., is removed from synonymy with Trioza cinnamomi (Boselli, 1931).
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Revision of the birch-associated genus Massalongia (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae), with description of a new species from Japan and a taxonomic key to worldwide species
Betula (Betulaceae), or birch, is a Holarctic genus of trees and shrubs whose species have ornamental, industrial, and medical importance. Gall midges of the genus Massalongia (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae: Cecidomyiidi) are exclusively associated with birches in the Palearctic region. In 2018, an undescribed Massalongia species was discovered forming leaf galls on the midveins of B. grossa on Mount Tara, Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan. In this study the species is described as M. nakamuratetsui Elsayed & Tokuda, sp. nov., and a DNA barcode provided for it. The other known species of Massalongia are redescribed because the original descriptions are outdated and insufficient. A lectotype is designated for M. bachmaieri. In addition, the monotypic genus Apagodiplosis, containing A. papyriferae associated with B. papyrifera in the Nearctic region, is synonymized here under Massalongia, resulting in M. papyriferae comb. nov., rendering Massalongia a Holarctic genus with six species. Comparing the sequence data of M. nakamuratetsui with all sequences available in The Barcode of Life Data (BOLD) system supports the occurrence of Massalongia in the Nearctic region and suggest that more species could be discovered there. Massalongia species form leaf or bud galls, and their mature larvae drop to the ground in autumn and overwinter in characteristic waterproof bottle-like cocoons, which is possibly a protective adaptation for pupation in wet and snowy lands. A taxonomic key to all Massalongia species is provided.
["Betula"]

Designation of a neotype for Mazama americana (Artiodactyla, Cervidae) reveals a cryptic new complex of brocket deer species
Mazama americana (red brocket deer) is the genus-type species (first species described for this genus) and the basis for the identity of other Mazama species. Mazama americana is one of the most abundant and widely distributed deer species in the neotropical forest. However, recent studies suggest that this taxon belongs to a species complex. Our goal was to collect an animal at the type locality (topotype) in French Guiana with the aim of characterizing the morphological (biometric, craniometric), cytogenetic (Giemsa, C-banding, G-banding and NOR) and molecular (mitochondrial DNA) features. The comparisons showed that the collected specimen was very similar morphologically to specimens from other South American populations, but it was cytogenetically and molecularly very different from any of the cytotypes already described for this species, corroborating the existence of a complex of cryptic species. The data suggest that the M. americana topotype is a different species from all the cytotypes already described in the literature and which occupy the southern region of the Amazon River. The characterization and designation of the M. americana neotype is the first step toward a taxonomic reorganization of the genus Mazama, with the potential identification of new species.
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Annotated checklist of freshwater molluscs from the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia
The Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia is a crucial freshwater biodiversity hotspot and supports one of the world’s largest inland fisheries. Within the Tonle Sap basin, freshwater molluscs provide vital ecosystem services and are among the fauna targetted for commercial harvesting. Despite their importance, freshwater molluscs of the Tonle Sap basin remain poorly studied. The historical literature was reviewed and at least 153 species of freshwater molluscs have been previously recorded from throughout Cambodia, including 33 from the Tonle Sap basin. Surveys of the Tonle Sap Lake and surrounding watershed were also conducted and found 31 species, 15 bivalves (five families) and 16 gastropods (eight families), in the Tonle Sap basin, including three new records for Cambodia (Scaphula minuta, Novaculina siamensis, Wattebledia siamensis), the presence of globally invasive Pomacea maculata and potential pest species like Limnoperna fortunei. This study represents the most comprehensive documentation of freshwater molluscs of the Tonle Sap basin, and voucher specimens deposited at the Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Cambodia, represent the first known reference collection of freshwater molluscs in the country. In order to combat the combined anthropogenic pressures, including invasive species, climate change and dams along the Mekong River, a multi-pronged approach is urgently required to study the biodiversity, ecology, ecosystem functioning of freshwater molluscs and other aquatic fauna in the Tonle Sap basin.
["alien species"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Two new species of Ancystrocerus Raffray from the Oriental region (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
Two new species of the genus Ancystrocerus Raffray, A. lueliangi sp. nov. (China: Yunnan) and A. philippinus sp. nov. (Philippines: Mindanao), are described, illustrated, and distinguished from related congeners.
["ant-loving beetle"]

The Black Fungus Gnats (Diptera, Sciaridae) of Norway – Part I: species records published until December 2019, with an updated checklist
Black Fungus Gnats (Sciaridae) are a megadiverse, cosmopoliltan family of bibionomorph Diptera. Even in Europe, the continent with the longest tradition in sciarid taxonomy, numerous taxonomic issues remain unresolved and countless species await discovery and description. The fauna of Norway is in these respects no exception. Recognising considerable knowledge gaps, the Norwegian Biodiversity Information Centre provided substantial funding for a detailed inventory of the Sciaridae species occurring in Norway, which was realised in 2014–2018. The results of this project will be published in a series of papers, of which the first is presented here, summarising available data on the taxonomy, faunistics, and autecology of Norwegian Sciaridae beginning with Zetterstedt’s pioneering work in 1838 and ending with 31 December 2019 as the cut-off date. All published records from that period were analysed. The result is a list of 143 species and four unplaced names. Following a consistent scheme, verified locality details are provide including alternative spellings, habitats, and flight times of adults in Norway, literature citations for the faunistic records, and general taxonomic references for classification or identification. A checklist of the sciarid fauna of Norway and a complete list of the relevant literature are also presented.
["armyworm"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Study of Mite Species", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

Splitting the leafmining shield-bearer moth genus Antispila Hübner (Lepidoptera, Heliozelidae): North American species with reduced venation placed in Aspilanta new genus, with a review of heliozelid morphology
The new genus Aspilanta gen. n. is described to harbour Nearctic heliozelid moths with reduced venation, previously placed in Antispila Hübner, 1825, with type species Antispila oinophylla van Nieukerken & Wagner, 2012. The erection of this genus has become possible now that monophyly has been supported by a recent phylotranscriptomics analysis. Six species are combined in this genus: Aspilanta oinophylla (van Nieukerken & Wagner, 2012), comb. n., A. hydrangaeella (Chambers, 1874), comb. n., A. ampelopsifoliella (Chambers, 1874), comb. n., A. voraginella (Braun, 1927), comb. n., A. argentifera (Braun, 1927), comb. n., A. viticordifoliella (Clemens, 1860), comb. n. and two candidate species are recognised. DNA barcode COI sequences of Malaise trapped specimens suggest a rich fauna of Aspilanta in Central America. All are leafminers, with Vitaceae as main host family, and single species feeding respectively on Hydrangeaceae and Myricaceae. The species are briefly diagnosed, and data on biology, DNA barcodes and distribution are provided. To place the genus in context, a review of heliozelid morphology and phylogeny is presented and a key to Nearctic genera is given. The genus is confined to North and Central America, possibly also occurring in South America. Aspilanta oinophylla is also an invasive species on grapevine in Italy. The genus is sister to Coptodisca Walsingham, 1895. Another species is removed from Antispila: Heliozela eugeniella (Busck, 1900), comb. n., feeding on Eugenia (Myrtaceae), from Florida.
["Canada"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

The story of the Malagasy devils (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae): Holocerus lucifer in the north and H. devriesei sp. nov. in the south?
Madagascar is home to some of the largest and most colorful pygmy grasshoppers (Tetrigidae) in the world, known as ‘Malagasy Metrodorinae’. Among them, Devil’s pygmy grasshoppers (genus Holocerus Bolívar, 1887) are unique in having two long spines on the back, which are modified internal lateral pronotal carinae. The genus Holocerus was composed of two species – H. lucifer (Serville, 1838) and H. taurus Rehn, 1929 syn. nov., but here it is evidenced that the latter represents a junior synonym of the former. Simultaneously, H. devriesei sp. nov. is described as a species new to science. Holocerus lucifer is a northern species of paler coloration and longer spines (distributed from Marojejy and Maroantsetra in the north to Zahamena in the south), whereas H. devriesei sp. nov. represents the southern and darker species (distributed from Vohimana and Andasibe-Mantadia in the south to the Antongil Bay in the north). There are potential overlaps in the distribution of the two species, but without more georeferenced localities, it is impossible to discriminate whether they occur only sympatrically or also syntopically.
["pygmy grasshoppers"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Two new genera with species of the tribe Sarimini (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae) from China
Tempsarima Chang & Chen, gen. nov. (Hemiptera: Issidae: Sarimini), with type species Tempsarima bipunctata Chang & Chen, sp. nov. and Tetrichina Chang & Chen, gen. nov. (Hemiptera: Issidae: Sarimini), with type species Tetrichina trihamulata Chang & Chen, sp. nov. are described and illustrated from Hainan Province of China. The female genitalia characters of Issidae are discussed.
["Female genitalia"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Virus Research Studies"]

Two new species of the genus Betacixius Matsumura, 1914 from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae)
Two new species of Betacixius Matsumura, 1914 (Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae), B. latissimus Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. and B. maguanensis Zhi & Chen, sp. nov., are described from Yunnan Province, China. The genus is reviewed and a key to all known species is provided. The females of four Chinese species are described for the first time.
["Female genitalia"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Description of 47 new species of the New Caledonian endemic caddisfly genus Agmina Ward & Schefter (Trichoptera, Ecnomidae)
New Caledonia has a rich Trichoptera fauna with over 200 known species, most of them endemic. The total diversity has been estimated as high as 300 to 600 species. The endemic genus Agmina Ward & Schefter (Ecnomidae, Trichoptera) includes 28 described species. Based on male genitalia morphology and previously published molecular data another 47 new species in the genus are described, namely Agmina tuberosa sp. nov., A. semiovale sp. nov., A. rocheta sp. nov., A. tenuisa sp. nov., A. multidentata sp. nov., A. cornuta sp. nov., A. sagittata sp. nov., A. circulata sp. nov., A. digitata sp. nov., A. longispina sp. nov., A. magnahamata sp. nov., A. longicordata sp. nov., A. campanula sp. nov., A. semicampanula sp. nov., A. cunicula sp. nov., A. cerritula sp. nov., A. monstrosa sp. nov., A. rectangulata sp. nov., A. chela sp. nov., A. piscaria sp. nov., A. amplexa sp. nov., A. caraffa, sp. nov., A. rostrata sp. nov., A. dathioensis sp. nov., A. rougensis sp. nov., A. viklundi sp. nov., A. lata sp. nov., A. falx sp. nov., A. guttula sp. nov., A. amieuensis sp. nov., A. spina sp. nov., A. complexa sp. nov., A. dognyensis sp. nov., A. mana sp. nov., A. anterohamata sp. nov., A. curvatacua sp. nov., A. recurvata sp. nov., A. taoensis sp. nov., A. triangulata sp. nov., A. bleuensis sp. nov., A. touhoensis sp. nov., A. wardi sp. nov., A. parallela sp. nov., A. christinae sp. nov., A. brevis sp. nov., A. ninguana sp. nov., and A. scopula sp. nov. Additionally, new records are provide for the species A. acula Ward, 2003, A. artarima Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. berada Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. bimaculata Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. cheirella Ward, 2003, A. comata Ward, 2003, A. diriwi Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. hamata Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. hastata Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. hirta Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. jepiva Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. joycei Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. kapiwa Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. kara Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. mariae Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. nodosa Ward, 2003, A. panda Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. padi Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. parie Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. rhara Ward & Schefter, 2000, A. urugi Ward & Schefter, 2000, and A. vuegi Ward & Schefter, 2000. With a total of 75 described species Agmina is one of the largest animal radiations in New Caledonia. Nothing is known about the early stages of any of the species in this genus.
["caddisflies"]

Two new species of the genus Indolipa Emeljanov (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae) from Yunnan Province, China, with a key to species
Two new species of Indolipa Emeljanov, 2001 (Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae) from Yunnan Province, China, I. fugongensis Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. and I. longlingensis Zhi & Chen, sp. nov. are described. Color images for the adults of the two new species and line drawings for the genitalia are provided. In addition, a key to all known species of Indolipa Emeljanov is included.
["Fulgoroidea"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Moss inhabiting flea beetles of the West Indies III: Erinaceialtica, a new genus from Hispaniola (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
Erinaceialtica Konstantinov & Linzmeier, a new genus of moss inhabiting flea beetles, containing seven species from the Dominican Republic and Haiti is described and illustrated. Five species are new (E. gabbysalazarae, E. janestanleyae, E. rickstanleyi (the type species), E. rileyi, and E. thomasi) and two species are transferred from Aedmon: A. albicincta (Blake) and A. hugonis (Blake) comb. nov. The new genus is compared to Aedmon Clark, Apleuraltica Bechyne, Andersonaltica Linzmeier & Konstantinov, Distigmoptera Blake, and Ulrica Scherer. Keys to Erinaceialtica and related genera and to Erinaceialtica species are provided.
["bryophyte"]

Two new West Palaearctic species of Atelestus Walker (Diptera, Atelestidae) and new distributional records of the family
Atelestus turcicus Barták, sp. nov. (Turkey) and Atelestus ibericus Barták, sp. nov. (Spain) are described and illustrated. A key to all known Palaearctic species of Atelestus is provided and the main diagnostic characters are discussed. The female of Nemedina acutiformis Carles-Tolrá, 2008 is described for the first time. New distributional records are presented: Atelestus dissonans Collin, 1961 – first records from Spain and Bulgaria, A. pulicarius (Fallén, 1816) – first record from Turkey, Nemedina alamirabilis Chandler, 1981 – first record from Bulgaria and N. acutiformis Carles-Tolrá, 2008 – first record from Turkey.
["Atelestidae"]

Contributions to Chinese fauna of Torrenticolidae Piersig, 1902 (Acari, Hydrachnidia), with the description of three new species
Five species of torrenticolid mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia), collected in the Anzihe and Qingliangfeng national nature reserves, R. P. China, are identified. Three species are described as new to science: Torrenticola pseudosiamis Gu & Guo, sp. nov., T. anziensis Gu & Guo, sp. nov., and Monatractides sichuanensis Gu & Guo, sp. nov. The other two species, M. macrocorpis Gu & Guo, 2019, M. xiaoxiensis Gu & Guo, 2019, are newly reported from Zhejiang Province. Descriptions and illustrations of these species are included.
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

Revealing the stygobiotic and crenobiotic molluscan biodiversity hotspot in Caucasus: Part I. The phylogeny of stygobiotic Sadlerianinae Szarowska, 2006 (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Hydrobiidae) from Georgia with descriptions of five new genera and twenty-one new species
The position of the southwestern Caucasus as a stygobiotic Mollusca hotspot is confirmed. Molecular data of stygobiotic gastropods revealed the diversity of subfamily Sadlerianinae Szarowska, 2006, inhabiting the subterranean environment of Georgia. In addition to the well-known endemic genera Pontohoratia Vinarski, Palatov & Glöer, 2014 and Motsametia Vinarski, Palatov & Glöer, 2014, five more genera were identified in northwestern Georgia as new to the science: Kartvelobia gen. nov., Imeretiopsis gen. nov., Caucasopsis gen. nov., Caucasogeyeria gen. nov., and Hausdorfenia gen. nov. Additionally, 21 new species were found to inhabit the studied area (Samegrelo, Imereti, Racha regions in Georgia).
["cave"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A history of study and new records of terrestrial enchytraeids (Annelida, Clitellata, Enchytraeidae) from the Russian Far East
A list of terrestrial enchytraeids of the Russian Far East is compiled based on literature and extensive field data collected by the authors in 2019. A database has been created consisting of geographic coordinates, habitat type, species, and data source. For some species collected by the authors, barcoding using COI, 16s, and 12s rRNA genes has been performed. In total, there are at least 62 species of enchytraeids belonging to 12 genera. Seven species (Achaeta macroampullacea, Cognettia sphagnetorum, Enchytraeus dichaetus, Fridericia cusanica, Globulidrilus riparius, Marionina southerni, Mesenchytraeus gigachaetus) are reported in the Russian Far East for the first time. Cognettia sphagnetorum and F. cusanica are most probably introduced. Taxonomic and biogeographical remarks on some of the species found and differences from the original descriptions are provided. Some of the specimens may be undescribed species, but this requires a more in-depth examination. The Russian Far East, especially its southeastern part, is of great interest as a possible location for new species of enchytraeids.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Systematics of Pholidobolus lizards (Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) from southern Ecuador, with descriptions of four new species
Four new species of Pholidobolus lizards are described from poorly explored areas in the Andes of southern Ecuador based on morphological and genetic evidence. Among other morphological characters, Pholidobolus samek sp. nov. and P. condor sp. nov. differ from their congeners in having green dorsolateral stripes on head. Males of P. condor sp. nov. differ from those of P. samek sp. nov. in having reddish flanks and venter. P. dolichoderes sp. nov. is distinguished by having a long neck, with more scales between orbit and tympanum, whereas P. fascinatus sp. nov. is distinguished by lacking enlarged medial scales on collar and a conspicuous vertebral stripe. In addition, the phylogenetic position of the new species is inferred using DNA sequences of mitochondrial and nuclear genes. The phylogeny supports strongly monophyly of each of the new species and renders P. macbrydei paraphyletic and split into six subclades. Available data suggest that the new species have restricted distribution ranges (< 100 km2 each), and it is proposed that their classification be as Data Deficient or Critically Endangered species. The results reveal unexpected levels of diversity within Pholidobolus in the Andes of southern Ecuador and highlight the importance of improving scientific collections and conservation efforts in this area.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Taxonomic studies on the genus Ectatosticta (Araneae, Hypochilidae) from China, with descriptions of two new species
Species of the spider family Hypochilidae Marx, 1888 from China are studied, including two known species and two new species of the genus Ectatosticta Simon, 1892. The new species are E. wukong sp. nov. (♂♀) from Sichuan and E. xuanzang sp. nov. (♀) from Tibet.
["diagnosis"]

Tauritermes bandeirai: A new drywood termite (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae) from the Caatinga and Atlantic Forest of Brazil
The imago and soldier castes of a new Tauritermes Krishna, 1961 species, Tauritermes bandeirai sp. nov. are described. It is the fourth species of Tauritermes and occurs from the Caatinga and Atlantic Forest of Brazil. Unlike its congeners, the soldier of T. bandeirai has prominent frontal horns.
["Imago"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

The first representatives of the millipede family Glomeridellidae (Diplopoda, Glomerida) recorded from China and Indochina
A new species of glomeridellid millipede is described from Guizhou Province, southern China: Tonkinomeris huzhengkuni sp. nov. This new epigean species differs very clearly in many structural details, being sufficiently distinct morphologically and disjunct geographically from T. napoensis Nguyen, Sierwald & Marek, 2019, the type and sole species of Tonkinomeris Nguyen, Sierwald & Marek, 2019, which was described recently from northern Vietnam. The genus Tonkinomeris is formally relegated from Glomeridae and assigned to the family Glomeridellidae, which has hitherto been considered strictly Euro-Mediterranean in distribution and is thus new to the diplopod faunas of China and Indochina. Tonkinomeris is re-diagnosed and shown to have perhaps the basalmost position in the family Glomeridellidae. Its relationships are discussed, both morphological and zoogeographical, within and outside the Glomeridellidae, which can now be considered as relict and basically Oriental in origin. Because of the still highly limited array of DNA-barcoding sequences of the COI mitochondrial gene available in the GenBank, the first molecular phylogenetic analysis of Glomerida attempted here shows our phylogram to be too deficient to consider meaningful.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

A new species of the genus Lycodon (Serpentes, Colubridae) from Guangxi, China
A new species of colubrid snake, Lycodon cathaya sp. nov., is described based on two adult male specimens collected from Huaping Nature Reserve, Guangxi, southern China. In a phylogenetic analyses, the new species is shown to be a sister taxon to the clade composed of L. futsingensis and L. namdongensis with low statistical support, and can be distinguished from all known congeners by the significant genetic divergence in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene fragment (p-distance ≥ 7.9%), and morphologically by the following combination of characters: (1) dorsal scales in 17–17–15 rows, smooth throughout; (2) supralabials eight, third to fifth in contact with eye, infralabials nine; (3) ventral scales 199–200 (plus two preventral scales), subcaudals 78; (4) loreal single, elongated, in contact with eye or not, not in contact with internasals; (5) a single preocular not in contact with frontal, supraocular in contact with prefrontal, two postoculars; (6) maxillary teeth 10 (4+2+2+2); (7) two anterior temporals, three posterior temporals; (8) precloacal plate entire; (9) ground color from head to tail brownish black, with 31–35 dusty rose bands on body trunk, 13–16 on tail; (10) bands in 1–2 vertebral scales broad in minimum width; (11) bands separate ground color into brownish black ellipse patches arranged in a row along the top of body and tail; (12) elliptical patches in 3–6 scales of the vertebral row in maximum width; (13) ventral surface of body with wide brownish black strip, margined with a pair of continuous narrow greyish white ventrolateral lines. With the description of the new species, 64 congeners are currently known in the genus Lycodon, with 16 species occurring in China.
["Colubrinae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Description of Neoperla mindoroensis sp. nov., the first record of a stonefly from Mindoro, Philippines (Plecoptera, Perlidae), and identification of its life stages using COI barcodes
The new stonefly species, Neoperla mindoroensis sp. nov. (Perlidae), from Mindoro island is described. The new species is assigned to the N. recta species complex of the N. montivaga group on account of its obvious T7 and T8 with pointed processes and the presence of basolateral lobes in the everted aedeagal sac. The male adult is distinguishable by its aedeagus with a slightly raised mediodorsal lobe, fully covered with fine spinules, while the female adult has comparably small eggs (240 × 220 μm) with a punctate, chorionic surface with punctae arranged in polygonal FCIs. The life stages and sexes were assigned using COI mtDNA barcodes (2.2% maximum intraspecific genetic distance), which were compared with available barcodes of congeners, which had interspecific genetic distances varying by at least 23.5%. Biogeographic aspects, ecological habitat requirements, and suitability as potential bioindicator of the species are also briefly discussed.

Two new species of Episymploce Bey-Bienko, 1950 (Blattodea, Ectobiidae, Blattellinae) from China
Two new species of Episymploce Bey-Bienko from China are described. Nine individuals of E. sichuanensis sp. nov. were collected from Sichuan Province and four individuals of E. maxima, sp. nov. were collected from Guangxi Province. Morphology, especially the wings, specialized abdominal tergum and genitalia of adults, are described and illustrated in detail. Episymploce sichuanensis sp. nov. is similar to E. kunmingi (Bey-Bienko, 1969), but can be easily distinguished by the reduced wings, bifurcated two processes at the hind margin of the supra-anal plate, and the unspecialized first abdominal tergum (T1). Episymploce maxima sp. nov. is similar to E. taiheizana Asahina, 1979 but is distinguished by its large size, the lateromedial margins of the subgenital plate without processes, and the unspecialized T1. A key to the recorded Episymploce species from China is provided in this paper.
["Blattaria"]

An unexpected new species of Habrophlebia from Algeria (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae)
We describe a new species of Habrophlebia, H. djurdjurensis sp. nov., based on nymphal, imaginal, and egg stages obtained by sampling from the Great Kabylia watershed, north-central Algeria. The new species was previously identified as H. cf. fusca by Lounaci et al. 2000. Habrophlebia djurdjurensis is in fact more related to H. vaillantorum Thomas, 1996 but can be separated by characters on the nymphs and male imago. This is the fourth species of Habrophlebia reported from North Africa.
["Habrophlebia djurdjurensis sp. nov."]

Ecotone shifts in southern Madagascar: first barcoding data and six new species of the endemic millipede genus Riotintobolus (Spirobolida, Pachybolidae)
Six new species of the Spirobolida millipede genus Riotintobolus Wesener, 2009, are described from the spiny forest in southern Madagascar utilising genetic barcoding, drawings and scanning electron microscopy: Riotintobolus tsimelahy sp. nov., R. mangatsiaka sp. nov., R. lavanono sp. nov., R. bovinus sp. nov., R. antafoky sp. nov. and R. makayi sp. nov. One other Riotintobolus population from the spiny forest might represent an additional species based on genetic data, but it cannot be described as no male specimens were collected. At present, the genus Riotintobolus Wesener, 2009 has eight species from the spiny forest and two species from the littoral rainforest. A determination key to all ten species of the genus is provided. Molecular data reveal that the two critically endangered species from the humid littoral rainforest are not closely related to one another, but have their closest relative in the dry spiny forest ecosystem. Riotintobolus mandenensis Wesener, 2009, only known from the southern littoral rainforest of Mandena is related to R. tsimelahy sp. nov. from the nearby spiny forest at Tsimelahy with a p-distance of 11%, while R. minutus Wesener, 2009 from the littoral forest of Sainte Luce is more distant to all other Riotintobolus species, but more closely related to R. bovinus sp. nov. from the southwestern forest of the Makay.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Synopsis of fruit-piercing moths of the genus Eudocima (Lepidoptera, Erebidae) from Colombia
In order to provide information about the diversity and distribution of Eudocima species in Colombia, 261 specimens deposited in entomological collections were examined and identified. We found seven of the eight species of Eudocima recorded in the Neotropics: E. anguina, E. colubra, E. collusoria, E. memorans and E. serpentifera, all being recorded for the first time from the country. We provide a list of the species, comments on the biology and distribution data, illustrations of the adults, and keys for species identification.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

The genus Pterostichus in China III: a brief review of subgenus Chinapterus Berlov (Coleoptera, Carabidae) with descriptions of two new species
The subgenus Chinapterus Berlov, 1998 of the genus Pterostichus is briefly reviewed and a new synonym is proposed: Pterostichus singularis Tschitschérine, 1889 = Pterostichus balthasari Jedlička, 1937 syn. nov. Two new species are described: Pterostichus (Chinapterus) lianhuaensis sp. nov. and Pterostichus (Chinapterus) liupanensis sp. nov. Pterostichus przewalskyi Tschitschérine, 1888 is moved from subgenus Sinoreophilus Sciaky, 1996 to Chinapterus, and lectotypes are designated for P. balthasari and P. przewalskyi. A key to four species of the subgenus Chinapterus is provided.

Two new Geranomyia Haliday (Diptera, Limoniidae) crane flies from Mount Jiulong in China, with an updated key to Chinese species
The genus Geranomyia Haliday, 1833 is globally distributed, with 351 known species, of which 26 occur in China. Herein, an overview of the genus Geranomyia from Mount Jiulong, Zhejiang, China, is presented. Two new species are described and illustrated. Geranomyia jiulongensis sp. nov. and G. subablusa sp. nov. are distinguished from other Geranomyia species by the characters of the thorax and male genitalia. An updated key to the Geranomyia of China is presented.
["crane fly"]

Taxonomic note on Trichelix horrida (Pfeiffer, 1863) from Laos, with a type catalogue of Moellendorffia, Trichelix, and Moellendorffiella (Heterobranchia, Camaenidae)
Land snail surveys conducted in northern Laos between 2013 and 2014 have led to the discovery of a living population of Trichelix horrida (Pfeiffer, 1863). This species has never been recorded from specimens other than the types, and its distribution and anatomy have remained essentially unknown. The genitalia and radula morphology are documented here for the first time and employed to re-assess the systematic position of this species: the unique morphological characters of T. horrida are a penis similar in length to the vagina, a small and triangular penial verge, gametolytic organs extending as far as the albumen gland, head wart present, and unicuspid triangular radula teeth. The type locality of this species was believed to be from “Lao Mountains, Camboja,” and is restricted herein to be Luang Phrabang Province, northern Laos. The assignment of species to either of three genera, Trichelix Ancey, 1887, Moellendorffia Ancey, 1887, and Moellendorffiella Pilsbry, 1905, based solely on information provided in their original descriptions is difficult. The type specimens of all nominal species presently placed in either of these three genera are examined and illustrated herein. Comparison with the primary type specimens will assist future revisions aiming to resolve the systematics of these taxa. In addition, we transfer Moellendorffia faberiana (Möllendorff, 1888) to the genus Moellendorffiella.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Two new genera and eight new species of jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae) from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China
Two new genera and eight new species of jumping spiders from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) are diagnosed, described, and illustrated. The new genera are Dendroicius gen. nov. (type species D. hotaruae sp. nov. (♂♀)) and Megaeupoa gen. nov. (type species M. yanfengi sp. nov. (♂♀)). The new species are Colyttus yiwui sp. nov. (♂♀), Euophrys xuyei sp. nov. (♂♀), Foliabitus weihangi sp. nov. (♂♀), Nigorella mengla sp. nov. (♂♀), Onomastus chenae sp. nov. (♂♀), and Synagelides platnicki sp. nov. (♂♀). A new combination is proposed: Megaeupoa gravelyi (Caleb, 2018), comb. nov., ex Brettus Thorell, 1895. Two new synonyms have been proposed: Irura prima (Żabka, 1985), syn. nov. with Irura mandarina Simon, 1903; Evarcha digitata Peng & Li, 2002, syn. nov. with Ptocasius montiformis Song, 1991.
["All Species Inventory"]

Ash-free dry mass values for northcentral USA caddisflies (Insecta, Trichoptera)
Ash-free dry mass (AFDM) values are presented for the adult stage of 63 caddisfly species commonly found throughout the northcentral US. Weights ranged from 0.01 mg for the smallest species to 7.22 mg for the largest. These values represent the first published data on the AFDM of the adult stage of Trichoptera, and can be used in other studies for more precise assessments of stream conditions without destruction of specimens. This increased precision is demonstrated herein by re-analyzing a previously published data set.
["ash-free dry mass"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Description of two new species of Paraonidae (Annelida) from the Gulf of Thailand, Western Pacific
Two new species of Aricidea Webster, 1879 (Paraonidae), Aricidea (Acmira) anusakdii sp. nov. and Aricidea (Aricidea) thammapinanae sp. nov. were collected from 10–26.5 m depth, in soft bottoms with mud mixed with sand and shells at Songkhla Sea, the Gulf of Thailand between 2011–2018. Aricidea (Acmira) anusakdii sp. nov. is clearly distinguished from other species of the subgenus Acmira by having a rounded bilobed prostomium divided by a slight notch on the anterior margin; red pigments on the subdistal to the tip of each branchia (new character); two prebranchial chaetigers; 48–68 pairs of branchiae; and modified neurochaetae as strong curved spines with blunt shafts surrounded by pubescence from chaetigers 19–44. On the other hand, Aricidea (Aricidea) thammapinanae sp. nov. can be separated from other members of the subgenus Aricidea by the presence of a biarticulated median antenna; distinctive notopodial lobes as broad triangular with short distal protuberances on chaetiger 3, 4–8 pairs of branchiae; and modified neurochaetae as bidentate neurochaetae with a long pubescent subterminal arista on the concave side. All data have been archived and are freely available from the Dryad Digital Repository (https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.hqbzkh1cn).
["Aricidea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Facultative amphidromy and pelagic larval duration plasticity of Rhinogobius formosanus (Teleostei, Gobioidei)
Rhinogobius formosanus Oshima, 1919 has long been considered an amphidromous goby. However, a landlocked population recently found in the Jingualiao Creek upstream of the Feitsui Reservoir in Taipei suggests that R. formosanus may complete its life in the river. This study aims to verify the habitat use of the landlocked population of R. formosanus collected from the Feitsui Reservoir and an amphidromous population collected in Malian Creek using otolith Sr:Ca ratio analysis. The hypothesis that early life history varies between the landlocked and migratory gobies was also tested. Genetic analyses show that the Feitsui Reservoir and Malian Creek populations are not genetically different. Rhinogobius formosanus from Malian Creek showed high-to-low otolith Sr:Ca ratios suggesting that these specimens spent a planktonic larval stage in the sea followed by a freshwater life at later stages. In contrast, R. formosanus from the Feitsui Reservoir showed constant lower otolith Sr:Ca ratios, implying a landlocked life history of fish in the creek upstream of the reservoir. In addition, the analysis of growth increments showed a longer pelagic larval duration for the fish in the Malian Creek (58.8 days) than those in the Feitsui Reservoir (38.8). Variation of pelagic larval duration in two genetically homogenous populations implies acclimatization to the reservoir by the landlocked gobies. This study shows that R. formosanus, like some other congeners, is capable of adapting to a freshwater landlocked environment in its early developmental stage and supports the hypothesis that landlocked populations may have a shorter pelagic larval duration.
["COI sequences"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

New genus and species of calanoid copepods (Crustacea) belonging to the group of Bradfordian families collected from the hyperbenthic layers off Japan
A new genus and species of calanoid copepods belonging to the group of Bradfordian families, Pogonura rugosa gen. et sp. nov., is described from the deep-sea hyperbenthic layers off Nagannu Island, Okinawa Prefecture, southwestern Japan. Pogonura gen. nov. is similar to another Bradfordian genus Procenognatha in sharing the following characteristics: (1) segmentation of the antennule, fused segments II–IV, X–XI, XXVII–XXVIII in females and II–IV, X–XII, XXVII–XXVIII, right XXII–XXIII in males; (2) retained setae on the ancestral segments I–IV of the antennary exopod; (3) setules on the mandibular gnathobase; (4) 3 sclerotized setae on the maxillary endopod; (5) absence of sensory seta on the maxilliped; (6) large spinules on the posterior surface of the rami of legs 2 and 3; and (7) setation and segmentation of female leg 5. Pogonura gen. nov. is distinctly distinguished from Procenognatha by the following features: (1) reduction of a seta on the ancestral segment IX of the antennary exopod, (2) 8 setae (7 in Procenognatha) on the maxillular exopod, (3) 5 brush-like setae (6 in Procenognatha) on the maxillary endopod, and (4) reduction of right endopod of male leg 5. The systematic position of Pogonura gen. nov. in the Bradfordian families is also discussed. Although this new genus shares synapomorphies with some diaixid genera, an assignment of this genus to any Bradfordian family should be pending until the taxonomy of this family group is clearly settled.
["Bradfordian families"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Revision of the Afrotropical genus Leiodontocercus (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae, Phaneropterinae) with a description of four new species
Specimens belonging to the genus Leiodontocercus are rare or even absent in natural history museum collections; this is likely due to at least two reasons, notably, their relatively small size, and, the sheer difficulty in finding them in dense Afrotropical forests. Until recently, three species from less than fifteen specimens were known from this genus, whose identification relied on a singular diagnostic character, that is, the shape of the male cerci. The present contribution is based on the examination of thirty specimens collected from various countries, ranging from central to west Africa; apart from the male cerci, a second diagnostic character – the stridulatory file – is used to distinguish species, even though it is difficult to examine in mounted specimens. As a result, four new species were detected, namely, L. vicii sp. nov., L. spinicercatus sp. nov. (from the Central African Republic), L. muticus sp. nov. (from Gabon and Cameroon) and L. philipporum sp. nov. (from Côte d’Ivoire). Moreover, L. condylus is recorded from the Central African Republic, the only country where three species of this genus co-occur. It is suggested that population isolation during fluctuating humid and dry periods, consequent to the influence of Ice Age impact during the Pleistocene in tropical central Africa, is the best explanation for the adaptive radiation of the group.
["Central and West Africa"]

Resolving a taxonomic and nomenclatural puzzle in mantellid frogs: synonymization of Gephyromantis azzurrae with G. corvus, and description of Gephyromantis kintana sp. nov. from the Isalo Massif, western Madagascar
The genus Gephyromantis belongs to the species-rich family Mantellidae and is currently divided in six subgenera. Among these is the subgenus Phylacomantis, which currently includes four described species: Gephyromantis pseudoasper, G. corvus, G. azzurrae, and G. atsingy. The latter three species are distributed in western Madagascar, and two of them (G. azzurrae and G. corvus) occur in the Isalo Massif. Based on the analysis of molecular data (a fragment of the 16S rRNA gene), morphological inspection of museum specimens, and photographic comparisons, G. azzurrae is synonymised with G. corvus and the second Phylacomantis lineage of Isalo is described as G. kintana sp. nov. This medium-sized frog species (adult snout-vent length 35–44 mm) is assigned to this subgenus according to genetic and morphological similarities to the other known species of Phylacomantis. Gephyromantis kintana sp. nov. is known only from the Isalo Massif, while new records for G. corvus extend its range to ca. 200 km off its currently known distribution. These two taxa seem to occur in syntopy in at least one locality in Isalo, and the easiest way to distinguish them is the inspection of the ventral colouration, dark in G. corvus and dirty white in G. kintana.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

Geographical distribution of the giant honey bee Apis laboriosa Smith, 1871 (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Worldwide pollinator declines have dramatically increased our need to survey and monitor pollinator distributions and abundances. The giant honey bee, Apis laboriosa, is one of the important pollinators at higher altitudes of the Himalayas. This species has a restricted distribution along the Himalayas and neighbouring mountain ranges of Asia. Previous assessments of its distribution, published more than 20 years ago, were based on museum specimens. Since then, 244 additional localities have been revealed through field trips by the authors, publications, and websites. We present a revised distribution for A. laboriosa that better defines its range and extends it eastward to the mountains of northern Vietnam, southward along the Arakan Mountains to west-central Myanmar, into the Shillong Hills of Meghalaya, India, and northwestward in Uttarakhand, India. This species is generally found at elevations between 1000–3000 m a.s.l.. In northeastern India A. laboriosa colonies occur during summer at sites as low as 850 m a.s.l. and some lower elevation colonies maintain their nests throughout the winter. Finally, we report three regions in Arunachal Pradesh, India, and nine locations in northern Vietnam, where we observed workers of A. laboriosa and A. dorsata foraging sympatrically; their co-occurrence supports the species status of Apis laboriosa.
["Apidae"]

Twenty-one new species of the Simulium (Gomphostilbia) asakoae species group (Diptera, Simuliidae) in Thailand, with their genetic relationships
Females and males reared from pupae, their pupal exuviae and cocoons, and mature larvae of the Simulium (Gomphostilbia) asakoae species group from various localities in Thailand were morphologically examined. A total of 25 species was identified, including two of four known species (Simulium asakoae Takaoka & Davies and S. chiangdaoense Takaoka & Srisuka), one newly confirmed species (S. myanmarense Takaoka, Srisuka & Saeung, originally described from Myanmar), one newly transferred species (S. inthanonense Takaoka & Suzuki formerly of the S. ceylonicum species group), and 21 new species. Descriptions of all 21 new species are given, and the first full description of the male of S. inthanonense, together with the revised descriptions of its female, pupa, and larva, is also provided. Keys to identify all 27 members of this species group from Thailand are given for females, males, pupae, and larvae. The genetic relationships of all but one species were resolved using COI gene sequence-based analysis. All 26 species were divided into nine subgroups, I–IX, each consisting of two, one, four, nine, one, three, two, one and three species, respectively.
["Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A new Atrococcus species (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) from China, with a key to Chinese species
A new mealybug species Atrococcus rushuiensis Zhang, sp. nov., collected under the leaf sheath of Sporobolus fertilis (Poaceae) in Fuzhou City, Jiangxi Province, China, is described and illustrated. A new combination is introduced, transferring Allotrionymus shanxiensis Wu to the genus Atrococcus as A. shanxiensis (Wu), comb. nov. A key is presented for the species of Atrococcus recorded from China.
["Atrococcus rushuiensis"]
["Research on scale insects", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Taxonomic revision of the Pheidole sikorae species group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Madagascar
The present study represents a taxonomic revision of the Pheidole sikorae species group from Madagascar. Forty-four members of this group are recognised and described, and an illustrated identification key to this group is also presented. One species is raised to species level: P. litigiosa Forel, 1892 stat. nov. Pheidole veteratrix angustinoda Forel, 1892 syn. nov. is proposed as a junior synonym of Pheidole veteratrix Forel, 1891. Worker castes are also described and lectotypes designated for P. litigiosa Forel, 1892, P. sikorae Forel, 1891, and P. veteratrix Forel, 1891. The following 41 new species are described: P. alina sp. nov., P. ambohimanga sp. nov., P. analavelona sp. nov., P. andohahela sp. nov., P. anomala sp. nov., P. anosyenne sp. nov., P. antranohofa sp. nov., P. beanka sp. nov., P. befotaka sp. nov., P. dasos sp. nov., P. flavominuta sp. nov., P. gracilis sp. nov., P. haboka sp. nov., P. havoana sp. nov., P. hazo sp. nov., P. itremo sp. nov., P. joffreville sp. nov., P. kely sp. nov., P. lavasoa sp. nov., P. mahamavo sp. nov., P. mainty sp. nov., P. mamiratra sp. nov., P. manantenina sp. nov., P. masoandro sp. nov., P. mavohavoana sp. nov., P. midongy sp. nov., P. mikros sp. nov., P. mivory sp. nov., P. nitidobruna sp. nov., P. parvula sp. nov., P. parvulogibba sp. nov., P. renirano sp. nov., P. sava sp. nov., P. sofia sp. nov., P. sparsa sp. nov., P. tampony sp. nov., P. trichotos sp. nov., P. tsaravoniana sp. nov., P. vadum sp. nov., P. volontany sp. nov., and P. vony sp. nov. At present, there are 109 valid species and subspecies of Pheidole known from Madagascar, but this number is expected to increase with upcoming taxonomic revisions of the species groups not revised in this study.
["endemic species"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Odontomachus davidsoni sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), a new conspicuous trap-jaw ant from Ecuador
One of the largest species in its genus, Odontomachus davidsoni Hoenle, Lattke & Donoso, sp. nov. is described from workers and queens collected at lowland forests in the Chocó-Darién bioregion in coastal Ecuador. The workers are characterized by their uniform red coloration, their large size (16–18 mm body length), and their frontal head striation that reaches the occipital margin. DNA barcodes (COI) and high resolution 2D images of the type material are provided, as well as an updated key for the Neotropical species of Odontomachus. In addition, a three-dimensional digital model of the worker holotype and a paratype queen scanned with DISC3D based on photogrammetry is presented, for the first time in a species description. Findings of large and conspicuous new species are uncommon around the world and suggest that these Ecuadorian rainforests may conceal many more natural treasures that deserve conservation.
["3D scan"]

Online social media tells a story of Anaselina, Paraselina, and Selivinga (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae), rare Australian pygmy grasshoppers
Knowledge on the pygmy grasshoppers of Australia is, despite the numerous endemics being described from this unique continent, still scarce. Of interest is the Vingselina genus group, including genera Anaselina Storozhenko, 2019, Paraselina Storozhenko, 2019, Selivinga Storozhenko, 2019 and Vingselina Sjöstedt, 1921. The systematic position of this group, currently assigned to Batrachideinae (Bufonidini), is probably not correct. In this study new records are presented of Anaselina minor (Sjöstedt, 1921), Paraselina brunneri (Bolívar, 1887), P. trituberculata (Sjöstedt, 1932), and Selivinga tribulata Storozhenko, 2019, all except A. minor the first records of the species since their original descriptions. The first photographs of living specimens of A. minor, P. brunneri, P. trituberculata and S. tribulata are provided and their habitats described. All the records were compiled by citizen scientists who use online social media, such as iNaturalist. Lastly, P. multifora (Rehn, 1952) syn. nov. represents a junior synonym of P. brunneri.
["barkhopper"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Strandings of cetaceans on the Espírito Santo coast, southeast Brazil, 1975–2015
Espírito Santo state is located on the eastern margin of Brazil, in a transitional tropical-subtropical area (18°S–21°S) dominated by oligotrophic waters. With the exception of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), the cetacean community of Espírito Santo has been understudied. In addition to the chronic impacts from fisheries, marine pollution, urban development, and coastal habitat degradation, in November 2015 the cetacean communities of Espírito Santo were challenged by the greatest environmental disaster in Brazil’s history. The Mariana dam disaster caused 60 million cubic meters of mining waste to be washed into the Doce River, which ultimately flowed to the coastal waters of Espírito Santo, with a high concentration of heavy metals. This study reviews and updates information on cetacean strandings in the state of Espírito Santo (excluding humpback whales) prior to this disaster. From 1975 to September 2015, there were 461 recorded cetacean strandings, representing 20 species. An average 1.18 strandings per 100 km per month were recorded since a state-wide daily beach survey program was implemented in October 2010, contrasting with the 0.14 strandings per 100 km per month in previous years. Six species comprised the majority (94.7%) of stranding events: Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis), Franciscana (Pontoporia blainvillei), rough-toothed dolphin (Steno bredanensis), bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus), and melon-headed whale (Peponocephala electra). Oceanic cetaceans stranded most frequently on the southern portion of Espírito Santo, where the continental platform is narrower, whereas the strandings of coastal cetaceans such as Guiana dolphins and Franciscanas were concentrated near estuaries, especially the Doce River. This is particularly concerning in face of the Mariana dam disaster, which drastically altered the estuarine and coastal environment associated with the Doce River.
["Atlantic Ocean"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Underwater Acoustics Research", "Underwater Vehicles and Communication Systems"]

Five new species of Aspidiotini (Hemiptera, Diaspididae, Aspidiotinae) from Argentina, with a key to Argentine species
Five new species of armored scale insect from Argentina are described and illustrated based upon morphological and molecular evidence from adult females: Chortinaspis jujuyensis sp. nov., Clavaspis patagonensis sp. nov., Hemiberlesia ozolita sp. nov., Melanaspis lilloi sp. nov., and Melanaspis targionoides sp. nov. The genera Chortinaspis and Melanaspis are recorded for the first time from this country. An identification key to all recorded species from tribe Aspidiotini occurring in Argentina is provided.
["armored scale insects"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Annotated checklist of the land snail fauna from southern Cambodia (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
Prior to this study, few collections and records were made of the land snails in Cambodia and the historical taxa had never been reviewed. Herein a report on the land snail diversity based on specimens collected recently from karstic and non-karstic areas in southern Cambodia is provided. This checklist presents 36 species of land snails (two Neritimorpha, six Caenogastropoda, and 28 Heterobranchia). Illustrations and brief taxonomic notes/remarks are provided for every species. We also described Georrisa carinata Sutcharit & Jirapatrasilp, sp. nov. based on some distinct shell morphological characters. Since the first descriptions during the colonial period in the nineteenth century, some land snail species (e.g., Trichochloritis norodomiana, Durgella russeola, Anceyoconcha siamensis obesula comb. nov., Anceyoconcha chaudoensis comb. nov., and Succinea tenuis) have not been reported subsequently. This probably reflects a lack of knowledge concerning land snail biodiversity in this country. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive survey of land snails in southern Cambodia. A need for more field research and systematic revision of the land snails in this interesting region is also highlighted and demonstrated.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

GPS tracking data of Western marsh harriers breeding in Belgium and the Netherlands
In this data paper three datasets are described containing GPS tracking and acceleration data of Western marsh harriers (Circus aeruginosus) breeding in Belgium and the Netherlands. The Western marsh harrier is included as a threatened bird species in Annex I of the European Bird Directive due to the steep decline in population densities. In order to collect data of habitat use and migration behaviour, Western marsh harriers were equipped with light-weight solar powered GPS trackers developed by the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED) at the University of Amsterdam (University of Amsterdam Bird Tracking System, UvA-BiTS). These trackers automatically collect and store data on the bird’s activity and 3D position in time and transmit these data to ground stations. The datasets were collected by the Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO) and the Dutch Montagu’s Harrier Foundation. Tracked Western marsh harriers were breeding in the northeast of the Dutch province of Groningen and on the opposite side of the river Ems in Germany (H_GRONINGEN), in the region of Waterland-Oudeman near the Belgian-Dutch border (MH_WATERLAND), and at the left bank of the Scheldt estuary, close to the Belgian-Dutch border and north of the city of Antwerp (MH_ANTWERPEN). Most individuals remained within 10 km from their nesting sites during the breeding season and wintered in West Africa. H_GRONINGEN contains 987,493 GPS fixes and 3,853,859 acceleration records of four individuals since 2012. MH_WATERLAND contains 377,910 GPS fixes of seven individuals. Sampling in this region began in 2013. Three more Western marsh harriers were tagged in the Scheldt estuary near Antwerp more recently in 2018 (one individual) and 2019 (two individuals) for the MH_ANTWERPEN study, which contains 47,917 GPS fixes and 227,746 acceleration records. The three Western marsh harrier datasets were published as separate studies in Movebank (https://www.movebank.org) and archived as data packages in Zenodo (https://www.zenodo.org) to ensure long-term preservation and versioning of the data.
["Animal movement"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Remote Sensing and LiDAR Applications", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

First record of the family Colinauropodidae (Myriapoda, Pauropoda) in China, with the description of three new species
The pauropod family Colinauropodidae Scheller, 1985 is recorded from China for the first time. Three new species of the genus Colinauropus Remy, 1956 are described: Colinauropus chinensis sp. nov. and C. chongzhoui sp. nov. from Jiangsu Province, and C. foliosus sp. nov. from Sichuan Province. They can be easily separated from similar species by the number and the shape of sclerotized plates on the tergites, setae on the body and the anal plate. A key for all species of the genus is provided.
["anal plate"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Diversity and distribution of Epeorus (Caucasiron) (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) in Iran, with descriptions of three new species
Combining morphological and molecular data in an integrative approach, three new mayfly species of Epeorus (Caucasiron) are described. These include Epeorus (Caucasiron) alborzicus Hrivniak & Sroka, sp. nov. and Epeorus (Caucasiron) shargi Hrivniak & Sroka, sp. nov. from northern Iran, and Epeorus (Caucasiron) zagrosicus Hrivniak & Sroka, sp. nov. from central Iran. They are unambiguously delimited using both distance-based and likelihood-based approaches in the analyses of barcode COI sequences. Each new species is compared with other species of the subgenus and morphological diagnostic characters are provided. Based on extensive sampling of streams throughout the country, the distribution and habitat preferences of all Caucasiron species in Iran are assessed. Altogether, there are now six species recorded, among them also E. (C.) nigripilosus Sinitshenkova, 1976 is reported for the first time in Iran. Five species are distributed in the Alborz Mts. in northern Iran, one species was found in the Zagros Mts. in central Iran.
["barcoding"]

A survey of Phrurolithidae spiders from Jinggang Mountain National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi Province, China
Phrurolithidae spiders were collected from Jinggang Mountain National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi Province, China, during the past six years. The new genus Alboculus Liu, gen. nov., with the type species Phrurolithus zhejiangensis Song & Kim, 1991, is described, and its previously unknown male is described for the first time. Furthermore, seven new species of Otacilia are described: O. acutangula Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. bijiashanica Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. longtanica Liu, sp. nov. (♀), O. ovoidea Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. shenshanica Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), O. subovoidea Liu, sp. nov. (♂♀), and O. xiaoxiica Liu, sp. nov. (♀). All species are illustrated with photographs and their distributions are mapped.
["Taxonomy"]

The family Oestridae in Egypt and Saudi Arabia (Diptera, Oestroidea)
All known taxa of the family Oestridae (superfamily Oestroidea) in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia are systematically catalogued herein. Three oestrid subfamilies have been recorded in Saudi Arabia and/or Egypt by six genera: Gasterophilus (Gasterophilinae), Hypoderma, Przhevalskiana (Hypodermatinae), Cephalopina, Oestrus, and Rhinoestrus (Oestrinae). Five Gasterophilus spp. have been recorded in Egypt, namely, G. haemorrhoidalis (Linnaeus), G. intestinalis (De Geer), G. nasalis (Linnaeus), G. nigricornis (Loew), and G. pecorum (Fabricius). Only two of these species have also been recorded in Saudi Arabia, namely: G. intestinalis (De Geer) and G. nasalis (Linnaeus). The subfamily Hypodermatinae is represented in the two countries by only four species in two genera, namely, H. bovis (Linnaeus) and H. desertorum Brauer (in Egypt only), and H. lineatum (Villers) (in Saudi Arabia only) and Przhevalskiana silenus (Brauer) (in both countries). The subfamily Oestrinae is represented by two widely distributed species in both countries, namely, C. titillator (Clark) and O. ovis (L.), in addition to another species represented in Egypt only, R. purpureus (Brauer). For each species, synonymies, type localities, distribution, Egyptian and Saudi Arabian localities with coordinates, and collection dates are presented.
["Activity periods"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Description of the supergiant isopod Bathynomus raksasa sp. nov. (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cirolanidae) from southern Java, the first record of the genus from Indonesia
The giant isopod genus Bathynomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879, is recorded for the first time in Indonesian waters, from deep waters off southern Java in the Indian Ocean. Bathynomus raksasa sp. nov. is described and notes on juvenile specimens of an unidentified species found in the same locality are also provided. Bathynomus raksasa sp. nov. is characterized by the large size (averaging at 330 mm), narrowly rounded clypeus apex, prominent longitudinal carina on the clypeus, convex lateral margins of the uropodal exopod and endopod, produced distolateral corners of the uropodal exopod and endopod which have acute ends, an uropodal exopod with a setal fringe of medium length (69%), a pleotelson 1.6 times wider than long with the posterior margin medially concave, and the large number (11–13) of spines on the pleotelson.
["Bathynomus"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

A new species of the cave-fish genus Lucifuga (Ophidiiformes, Bythitidae), from eastern Cuba
Recently, a barcoding study and a molecular phylogenetic analysis of the Cuban species of the cave-fish genus Lucifuga Poey, 1858 revealed the existence of different evolutionary lineages that were previously unknown or passed unnoticed by morphological scrutiny (i.e., cryptic candidate species). In the present study, Lucifuga gibarensis is described as a new species restricted to anchialine caves in the northeastern karst region of the main island. The species was earlier described as a variety of Lucifuga dentata, but since the name was introduced as a variety after 1960, it is deemed to be infrasubspecific and unavailable according to the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature Art. 15.2. The new species differs from L. dentata by pigmented eyes vs. eyes absent and lack of palatine teeth vs. present. Lucifuga gibarensis seems to be most similar to the Bahamian species L. lucayana by showing pigmented eyes, 13 or 14 precaudal vertebrae and ten caudal fin rays. However, differs from it by a larger size of the pigmented eye (1.1–1.9 vs. 0.9–1.0% SL) and number of posterior lateral line neuromasts (30–33 vs. 34–35).
["Anchialine caves"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

A new species of Notomastus (Annelida, Capitellidae) from southern China, with remarks on its morphology and distribution
The genus Notomastus is frequently encountered in Chinese waters. However, its species richness is poorly understood. In this study, a Notomastus species obtained from Xiamen Bay, southern China, was described and illustrated as a new species (N. sunae sp. nov.), based on morphological and molecular analyses. The new species is characterized by having uniramous chaetiger 1, the presence of palpode and eyespots on prostomium, chaetiger 11 with notopodial capillaries and neuropodial hooded hooks, and notopodial lobes with simple epithelial extensions on far posterior abdomen. With additional specimens collected from several localities along the southern coasts of China, the morphology and geographical distribution of the new species are discussed. A key is also provided for Notomastus species with neuropodial hooks in thoracic chaetiger 11.
["coastal waters"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

New Coleoptera records from eastern Canada, with additions to the fauna of Manitoba, British Columbia, and Yukon Territory
One-hundred-eleven new provincial and territorial Coleoptera records are reported from New Brunswick (64), Nova Scotia (20), Prince Edward Island (5), Quebec (14), Manitoba (3), British Columbia (3), and Yukon Territory (2) for the 26 following families: Carabidae, Dytiscidae, Histeridae, Staphylinidae, Scarabaeidae, Buprestidae, Eucnemidae, Elateridae, Cantharidae, Erotylidae, Monotomidae, Cryptophagidae, Passandridae (first record of this family from New Brunswick), Laemophloeidae, Nitidulidae, Anamorphidae, Coccinellidae, Latridiidae, Mordellidae, Tenebrionidae, Cerambycidae, Chrysomelidae, Anthribidae, Brentidae, Dryophthoridae, and Curculionidae. Among these are ten new Canadian records: Heterosternuta oppositus (Say, 1823) (Dytiscidae) (New Brunswick), Gyrophaena blatchleyi Seevers, 1951 (Staphylinidae) (Quebec), Acropteroxys lecontei Crotch, 1873 (Erotylidae) (Manitoba), Placonotus falinorum Thomas, 2011 (Laemophloeidae) (Quebec), Adelina pallida (Say, 1824) (Tenebrionidae) (Quebec), Poecilocera harrisii (J.L. LeConte, 1851) (Chrysomelidae) (New Brunswick), Plesiobaris albilata (LeConte, 1876) (Curculionidae) (Quebec, New Brunswick), Pseudopityophthorus asperulus (LeConte, 1868) (Curculionidae) (Nova Scotia), Hylurgops palliatus (Gyllenhal, 1813) (Curculionidae) (New Brunswick), and Heteroborips seriatus (Blandford, 1894) (Curculionidae) (Nova Scotia). Plesiobaris disjuncta Casey reported as new for Canada in New Brunswick and Quebec by Webster et al. (2012a) is actually P. albilata (LeConte) and thus P. disjuncta is removed from the faunal list of Canada. Eleven species from New Brunswick not previously reported in literature were found on the online platforms BugGuide.Net and iNaturalist and are reported in this publication. This highlights the importance of online platforms dedicated to recording wildlife observations and citizen science in detecting new species records. Data is also presented for seven species from Quebec and two species from New Brunswick reported by Bousquet et al. (2013) without any supporting information for their occurrence in these provinces. Among the species reported here, 32 are adventive.
["British Columbia"]

A revision of the genus Teleopsis Rondani (Diptera, Diopsidae) in Sri Lanka with descriptions of two new species and a review of the other stalk-eyed flies from the island
The literature on Sri Lankan Diopsidae is reviewed. Eight Diopsidae are now known to occur in Sri Lanka, five species in the genus Teleopsis and one species each in the genera Sphyracephala, Diopsis, and Cyrtodiopsis. The presence of Cyrtodiopsis requires confirmation to exclude the possibility of mislabelling. All five Teleopsis species are endemic, as are the Diopsis species and probably the Cyrtodiopsis species. Only Sphyracephala bipunctipennis Senior-White has a larger distribution as it also occurs in India. A key is presented for the Diopsidae of Sri Lanka. Three Teleopsis species were already known to occur in Sri Lanka: T. ferruginea Röder, T. krombeini Feijen and T. maculata Feijen. These species form the T. ferruginea species group. Two new species are now described for this group: Teleopsis neglecta sp. nov. and Teleopsis sorora sp. nov. Teleopsis ferruginea is redescribed, as an earlier redescription turned out to be based on a series of specimens of its sister species T. sorora sp. nov. The other three Diopsidae of Sri Lanka are listed and illustrated. Allometric aspects of the five Teleopsis species are discussed. Three Teleopsis species are sexually dimorphic with regard to eye span, while two species are monomorphic. It is assumed that sexual dimorphism developed independently in the T. ferruginea species group. This brings the number of known cases of independent development of sexual dimorphism in the Diopsidae to ten.
["Cyrtodiopsis"]

Taxonomy of the Cryptopygus complex. III. The revision of South African species of Cryptopygus and Isotominella (Collembola, Isotomidae)
Species of the genera of the Cryptopygus complex in South Africa are morphologically revised. Five new species of the genus Cryptopygus Willem, 1902 s. s. and one new species of the genus Isotominella Delamare Deboutteville, 1948 are described. Cryptopygus abulbus sp. nov. and C. bulbus sp. nov. have only one chaeta on the anterior side of dens and no chaetae on the anterior side of manubrium, the latter species being characterized by the presence of a bulb at apex of antennae; C. inflatus sp. nov. shows a rare combination of eight ocelli on each side of the head with a tridentate mucro; C. longisensillus sp. nov. has five long s-chaetae on the fifth abdominal segment; C. postantennalis sp. nov. is unique by having a very long and slender postantennal organ with strong inner denticles; Isotominella laterochaeta sp. nov. is the second member of the genus and differs from the type species by many more anterior chaetae on the manubrium and the presence of chaetae on ventral side of metathorax. The genera are discussed and a key to all species of the Cryptopygus complex recorded in South Africa is given. The focus is on the Western Cape Province where the complex is the most diverse and sampling more complete than in other provinces of South Africa.
["endemism"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Characterization and comparative analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of Azygia hwangtsiyui Tsin, 1933 (Digenea), the first for a member of the family Azygiidae
Azygia hwangtsiyui (Trematoda, Azygiidae), a neglected parasite of predatory fishes, is little-known in terms of its molecular epidemiology, population ecology and phylogenetic study. In the present study, the complete mitochondrial genome of A. hwangtsiyui was sequenced and characterized: it is a 13,973 bp circular DNA molecule and encodes 36 genes (12 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes) as well as two non-coding regions. The A+T content of the A. hwangtsiyui mitogenome is 59.6% and displays a remarkable bias in nucleotide composition with a negative AT skew (–0.437) and a positive GC skew (0.408). Phylogenetic analysis based on concatenated amino acid sequences of twelve protein-coding genes reveals that A. hwangtsiyui is placed in a separate clade, suggesting that it has no close relationship with any other trematode family. This is the first characterization of the A. hwangtsiyui mitogenome, and the first reported mitogenome of the family Azygiidae. These novel datasets of the A. hwangtsiyui mt genome represent a meaningful resource for the development of mitochondrial markers for the identification, diagnostics, taxonomy, homology and phylogenetic relationships of trematodes.
["gene arrangement"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Egg parasitoids of Arboridia apicalis (Nawa, 1913) (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae), a leafhopper pest of grapevines in Japan, with description of a new species of Anagrus Haliday, 1833 (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae)
Several species of egg parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae and Trichogrammatidae) of the leafhopper pest of grapevines in Japan, Arboridia (Arboridia) apicalis (Nawa) (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae), were reared and identified for the first time. Using a combination of genetic and morphological evidence, Anagrus (Anagrus) arboridiae Triapitsyn & Adachi-Hagimori, sp. nov. (Mymaridae) is described and illustrated from Honshu Island (Shimane Prefecture) and Kyushu Island (Miyazaki Prefecture). It is shown to be different from Anagrus (Anagrus) japonicus Sahad and A. flaviapex Chiappini & Lin, to which it is most similar; the latter species was originally described from China and is newly recorded here from Okinawa Island, Japan. Mitochondrial and nuclear ribosomal DNA sequence data provide clear evidence for the separation of A. arboridiae from A. flaviapex, A. japonicus, and some other members of the Anagrus (Anagrus) atomus (L.) species group. Two other species of Anagrus Haliday, A. (Anagrus) avalae Soyka and A. atomus, are also identified in Japan from eggs of the leafhoppers Edwardsiana ishidae (Matsumura) and Eurhadina ? betularia Anufriev, respectively. An updated key to females of the Japanese species of Anagrus is given. Oligosita pallida Kryger (a new record for Japan), Oligosita sp., and an Aphelinoidea (Aphelinoidea) sp. (Trichogrammatidae) were the other, although much less abundant, apparent egg parasitoids of A. apicalis in Shimane Prefecture, mainly in non-organic vineyards.
["Aphelinoidea sp."]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Redescription of holotypes of four Alopecosa species (Araneae, Lycosidae) from China
The holotypes of four species of Alopecosa Sundevall, 1833 described from China, A. disca Tang, Yin & Yang, 1997 (♀); A. orbisaca Peng, Yin, Zhang & Kim, 1997 (♀); A. wenxianensis Tang, Yin & Yang, 1997 (♂), and A. xilinensis Peng, Yin, Zhang & Kim, 1997 (♀), are reexamined. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, remarks, and a distribution map of the three valid species are given. Alopecosa xilinensis syn. nov. is found to be junior synonym of Alopecosa licenti (Schenkel, 1953).
["Lycosinae"]

An annotated checklist and integrative biodiversity discovery of barnacles (Crustacea, Cirripedia) from the Moluccas, East Indonesia
To contribute to the taxonomic knowledge of barnacles in this understudied area, the first checklist of barnacles from the Moluccas is presented, including additional information on morphology, distribution, and substrate as well as molecular data. The species of barnacles from the Moluccas have been determined using morphological analysis and DNA sequences. During 19 field trips conducted between January 2016 and September 2017, 1,513 specimens of 24 species of intertidal and one species of deep-sea barnacles were collected from 51 localities from the islands. Morphological and molecular analysis of the collected material detected members of three families of stalked barnacles and four families of acorn barnacles. In addition to sampling in the field, we also surveyed the literature on barnacles from the Moluccas. In total, our checklist comprises 97 species from the Moluccas including 23 new records, two of them yet to be described species. Results suggest that the Moluccas have a much higher diversity of barnacles than previously known, for example, from the reports of Challenger and Siboga expeditions. For further work, routine application of molecular systematics could aid the detection of cryptic species, while increased sampling of more islands and a taxonomic revision of several groups would likely lead to an even higher number of species than currently known.
["Acorn barnacle"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Three new species of the genus Stephos Scott, 1892 (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Stephidae) from Jeju Island, Korea
During general field surveys carried out recently to collect benthopelagic copepods from near the substrate of the shallow waters off Jeju Island, Korea, a few specimens of three new species of Stephos Scott, 1892, were collected. The new species are placed in the genus Stephos because of the following combination of features: absence of seta on the basal exite of maxillule, and male right leg 5 ending in an unarmed claw-like and/or mitten-like segment. Stephos jejuensis sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by body length 0.92 mm, left side of the female genital double-somite with protruding lobes, antennule that extends beyond the distal area of the genital double-somite, and the male leg 5 terminal complex. Stephos concavus sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by the genital double-somite with protruding lobes on both sides, and the presence of larger spinules on the distomedial margin of leg 5. Stephos fortipes sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by its longer body length, 1.12 mm long in the female, antennules that extend to the end of the genital double-somite, and the presence of a covered row of minute spinules on the ventral surface of the genital operculum in the female. Until now, 35 species of stephids were known worldwide.
["Stephos"]

Trioxys liui Chou & Chou, 1993 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Aphidiinae): an invasive aphid parasitoid attacking invasive Takecallis species (Hemiptera, Aphididae) in the Iberian Peninsula
Biological invasion of aphids and other insects has been increased due to long distance commercial transportation of plant material. The bamboo-aphid-parasitoid association is strictly specific and even though it does not develop interactions with the local environment it should be listed as part of the fauna of southwestern Europe. On-going research regarding aphids and their aphidiine parasitoids in Spain has yielded a new association of Trioxys liui Chou & Chou, 1993 with an undescribed species of Takecallis aphids on bamboo, Phyllostachys spp. Here we present the first association of T. liui with aphids of the genus Takecallis that attack bamboos. Trioxys liui is known as a parasitoid of Cranaphis formosana (Takahashi, 1924) and Phyllaphoides bambusicola Takahashi, 1921 on bamboos in China and Russia. The accidental introduction of this parasitoid species to southwestern Europe has been probably realized through transportation of contaminated bamboo plant material. In the current study, a new host association is recorded for T. liui. Its potential to invade other bamboo-associated aphids and the significance of the tritrophic bamboo-aphid-parasitoid interactions in the new environments are also discussed.
["Bamboo"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

A revision of Pachyballus Simon, 1900 and Peplometus Simon, 1900 (Araneae, Salticidae, Ballini) with descriptions of new species
Two genera from the tribe Ballini (Araneae, Salticidae), Pachyballus Simon, 1900 and Peplometus Simon, 1900, are remarkable for their resemblance to beetles. Their biology is, however, poorly known and taxonomy has hitherto been rarely analysed. Thirteen species are included in this taxonomic revision of the two genera. Six of them are new to the science: Pachyballus caelestis sp. nov. (♂♀, Congo D.R.), Pachyballus miniscutulus sp. nov. (♂♀, South Africa), Pachyballus mombasensis sp. nov. (♂♀, Kenya), Pachyballus ornatus sp. nov. (♂♀, Congo D.R. and Tanzania), Peplometus congoensis sp. nov. (♂♀, Congo and Congo D.R.), and Peplometus nimba sp. nov. (♂, Guinea). One species (Pachyballus cordiformis Berland et Millot, 1941) and a subspecies (P. flavipes aurantius Caporiacco, 1949) are recognised as synonyms of Pachyballus flavipes Simon, 1910. One new combination is proposed: Peplometus oyo (Wesołowska et Russell-Smith, 2011) comb. nov. (ex Pachyballus). The previously unknown females of Pachyballus transversus Simon, 1900 and Peplometus chlorophthalmus Simon, 1900, along with the males of Pachyballus castaneus Simon, 1900 and Peplometus biscutellatus (Simon, 1887) are newly diagnosed and described. Neotypes for Pachyballus castaneus and P. flavipes are designated. Numerous new data on the distribution are provided here and a key to Pachyballus females and to the males of Peplometus is presented. Identity of one species remains doubtful, Pachyballus gambeyi (Simon, 1880).
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Application of DNA barcoding confirms the host of Gonatopus viet Olmi, 1986 (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae)
Gonatopus viet Olmi, 1986 was originally described from Vietnam based on a single female. No further distribution records or hosts have been documented since its original discovery. In the present study, this species is newly recorded from China and its host is confirmed as Stirellus capitatus (Distant, 1918) using DNA barcoding techniques. The utility of DNA barcoding to discover host-Dryinidae associations is discussed.
["Chrysidoidea"]

Taiwanoshaira Lee & Beenen, a new genus and first record of moss-inhabiting Galerucinae sensu stricto (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) from Taiwan
Taiwanoshaira Lee & Beenen gen. nov. is described. It represents the first genus of Galerucinae (s. str.) in Taiwan documented to inhabit moss cushions. Shaira chujoi Kimoto, 1982 is transferred to Taiwanoshaira, as follows: T. chujoi (Kimoto), comb. nov. Two new species, T. taipingshanensis sp. nov. and T. tsoui sp. nov., are described. Adults of T. taipingshanensis sp. nov. were observed feeding on the moss species Plagiomnium vesicatum (Besch.) T.J. Kop. (Mniaceae). Microhabitats and distribution of Taiwanoshaira species are discussed.
["cloud forest"]

Description of two new species of Tonsilla Wang & Yin, 1992 with an updated key to species (Araneae, Agelenidae)
Two new species of Tonsilla Wang & Yin, 1992 are described from Jinggang Mountain National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi Province, China: T. jinggangensis K. Liu & X. Xu, sp. nov. (♀) and T. subyanlingensis K. Liu & X. Xu, sp. nov. (♂♀). The new species are illustrated, and their distributions are mapped. Detailed generic characters and an updated key to Tonsilla species are also given.
["Jiangxi"]

Two Paradoxostomatidae (Ostracoda) species from South Korea with a key to genera of the family
Cytherois gajinensis sp. nov. is described and Violacytherois sargassicola (Hiruta, 1976) is redescribed. The species have been collected from littoral and interstitial waters in South Korea. They belong to Cytheroisinae, one of the three Paradoxostomatidae subfamilies. Both species are the first taxonomic records of the subfamily in Korea. Taxonomic keys to the living Paradoxostomatidae genera are provided in an attempt to clarify the position of some of the currently included genera as well as a key to East Asian Cytheroisinae species in order to facilitate further biodiversity research in the region.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A new species of the horned toad Megophrys Kuhl & Van Hasselt, 1822 (Anura, Megophryidae) from southwest China
A new species of the genus Megophrys is described from Guizhou Province, China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA sequences all strongly supported the new species as an independent clade sister to M. minor and M. jiangi. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 43.4–44.1 mm in males, and 44.8–49.8 mm in females; vomerine teeth absent; tongue not notched behind; a small horn-like tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; tympanum distinctly visible, rounded; two metacarpal tubercles on palm; relative finger lengths II < I < V < III; toes without webbing; heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level between tympanum and eye when leg stretched forward; in breeding males, an internal single subgular vocal sac in male, and the nuptial pads with black spines on dorsal surface of bases of the first two fingers.
["Taxonomy"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella (Amphibia, Anura, Megophryidae) from southwest China
A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella from Guizhou Province, China is described based on molecular phylogenetic analyses, morphological comparisons, and bioacoustics data. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene sequences supported the new species as an independent clade nested into the Leptobrachella clade and sister to L. bijie. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: small body size (SVL 30.8–33.4 mm in seven adult males, and 34.2 mm in one adult female); dorsal skin shagreened, some of the granules forming longitudinal short skin ridges; tympanum distinctly discernible, slightly concave; internasal distance longer than interorbital distance; supra-axillary, femoral, pectoral and ventrolateral glands distinctly visible; absence of webbing and lateral fringes on fingers; toes with rudimentary webbing and shallow lateral fringes, relative finger lengths II < IV < I < III; heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; and tibia-tarsal articulation reaches the tympanum.
["Guizhou"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Neoamphitrite undevigintipes, a new terebellid species from South Korea (Annelida, Terebellida, Terebellidae)
A detailed description and illustrations of a new terebellid species are provided, and molecular information based on partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene are included. The new species, Neoamphitrite undevigintipes sp. nov., is described from the deep sea off the eastern coast of South Korea. It is similar to Neoamphitrite groenlandica (Malmgren, 1866) in that the thorax has 19 notopodial chaetigers. However, Neoamphitrite undevigintipes sp. nov. is clearly distinguishable from N. groenlandica in having the uncini of the first abdominal chaetiger arranged in a single row and in having 12 ventral shields. A taxonomic key to all known Neoamphitrite species is also included.
["Amphitrite"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

A new species of the Rana japonica group (Anura, Ranidae, Rana) from China, with a taxonomic proposal for the R. johnsi group
Rana jiulingensis sp. nov., a new species from Hunan and Jiangxi, southeastern China, is described. The new species is assigned to the R. japonica group. The clade comprising R. jiulingensis sp. nov. and R. dabieshanensis from Anhui is the sister taxon of R. omeimontis from Sichuan. Rana jiulingensis sp. nov. can be distinguished by the significant divergences in the 16S and COI genes, and the combination of following morphological characters: body size medium, SVL 48.3–57.8 mm in adult males and 48.2–57.5 mm in adult females; dorsolateral fold straight; digits without circummarginal grooves; dorsal skin smooth; tibio-tarsal articulation reaching forward beyond the tip of snout; heels overlapping; webbing formula of toes: I 1⅓ – 2 II 1⅓ – 2⅓ III 1½ – 2⅔ IV 3 – 1⅓ V; absence of vocal sacs in males; and presence of creamy white nuptial pad with tiny hoar spines on the finger I and reddish tubercles on loreal and temporal regions in breeding males. Furthermore, based on our results and the previous literature, R. zhengi is synonymized with R. sangzhiensis, and a new species group, the Rana johnsi group, is proposed for the R. johnsi and R. sangzhiensis. Currently, the Rana contains 41 recognized species, and the phylogenetic placements of several species remain unresolved.
["morphology"]

A new species of the genus Hyalella (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from northern Mexico
A new species, Hyalella tepehuana sp. nov., is described from Durango state, Mexico, a region where studies on Hyalella have been few. This species differs from most species of the North and South American genus Hyalella in the number of setae on the inner plate of maxilla 1 and maxilla 2, characters it shares with Hyalella faxoni Stebbing, 1903. Nevertheless, H. faxoni, from the Volcan Barva in Costa Rica, lacks a dorsal process on pereionites 1 and 2. Also, this new species differs from other described Hyalella species in Mexico by the shape of the palp on maxilla 1, the number of setae on the uropods, and the shape of the telson.
["Durango"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Dendropsophus (Anura, Hylidae) from southwestern Amazonia with a green bilobate vocal sac
Recent studies have shown that species diversity of the South American frog genus Dendropsophus is significantly underestimated, especially in Amazonia. Herein, through integrative taxonomy a new species of Dendropsophus from the east bank of the upper Madeira River, Brazil is described. Based on molecular phylogenetic and morphological analyses, the new species is referred to the D. microcephalus species group, where it is differentiated from its congeners mainly by having a green bilobate vocal sac and an advertisement call comprising 1–4 monophasic notes emitted with a dominant frequency of 8,979–9,606 Hz. Based on intensive sampling conducted in the study area over the last ten years, the new species is restricted to the east bank of the upper Madeira River, although its geographic range is expected to include Bolivian forests close to the type locality.

Four new species of Asian horned toads (Anura, Megophryidae, Megophrys) from southern China
Recent phylogenetic analysis encompassing multilocus nuclear-gene and matrilineal mtDNA genealogy has revealed a series of cryptic species of the subgenus Panophrys within genus Megophrys from southern and eastern China. This study demonstrates that the Panophrys specimens from the hilly areas among Guangdong, Guangxi and Hunan can be morphologically distinguished from all recognized congeners, thereby providing additional supports for the recognitions of four new species of Panophrys, namely Megophrys (Panophrys) mirabilis Lyu, Wang & Zhao, sp. nov. from northeastern Guangxi, Megophrys (Panophrys) shimentaina Lyu, Liu & Wang, sp. nov. from northern Guangdong, and Megophrys (Panophrys) xiangnanensis Lyu, Zeng & Wang, sp. nov. and Megophrys (Panophrys) yangmingensis Lyu, Zeng & Wang, sp. nov. from southern Hunan. The descriptions of these species take the number of Megophrys species to 101, 46 of which belong to the subgenus Panophrys.
["cryptic species"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Checklist of the fresh and brackish water snails (Mollusca, Gastropoda) of Bénin and adjacent West African ecoregions
Currently no comprehensive checklist of fresh and brackish water gastropods from Bénin exists, and those for adjacent West African areas are outdated. Yet, such checklists provide essential biodiversity information and a consistent taxonomic and nomenclatural framework for that biodiversity. Here a first checklist of the fresh and brackish water gastropods from Bénin and adjacent West African ecoregions is presented, based on an extensive literature review and field surveys between September 2014 and June 2019 in six major fresh and brackish water ecosystems in Bénin. This inventory includes information on synonymy, species distribution in West Africa, habitats, and conservation status. The fresh and brackish water gastropod fauna includes 60 species, belonging to 28 genera and 16 families. Pachychilidae, Ampullariidae, Neritidae, and Bulinidae were the most diverse families with 9, 8, 7, and 7 species, respectively. However, literature and field data indicated that 23 species observed in West African basins that extend to Bénin do not occur in the territory of Bénin. These species were not detected in our field surveys, most likely because they are rare at collecting sites. Of the 60 species included, five are classified as “Data Deficient”, 43 as “Least Concern”, two as “Nearly Threatened”, one as “Vulnerable”, and six as “Endangered” by the IUCN, whereas the remaining three species were not evaluated. Because the taxonomy of fresh and brackish water gastropods in West Africa is still largely based on morphology, comparative molecular and taxonomic studies may result in substantial revisions of this checklist over the coming years.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Variability of the key features and revision of a group of closely related species of grassflies (Diptera, Chloropidae, Meromyza)
The following external morphological features of members of the genus Meromyza Mg. have been analyzed: the ratio of the height of frontal triangle to the length of the head; the presence of black setae on the lower surface of genae; the degree of manifestation of ocellus spot; the ratio of the length of mesonotum to scutellum; the length and color of the mid strip of the mesonotum and its degree of manifestation on the scutellum; and the thickness of hind femurs. Additionally, the size and shape of anterior and posterior processes of the postgonite, and the type of attachment of the posterior process have been investigated. The authors have determined the range of variability of key features applicable to the reliable identification of closely related species of grass flies in the “meigeni” species group of the genus Meromyza, as well as the usefulness of CO1 mtDNA sequences for this purpose. The authors propose to re-instate the name M. laeta Meigen, 1838 (instead of using the name M. meigeni Nartshuk, 2006), to include seven species into the cluster “meigeni”, and to substitute the name of the cluster “meigeni” with the name “variegata”.
["CO1 mtDNA"]

First record of the genus Tetracona Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) from China, with description of a new species
The genus Tetracona has two species with an Australian distribution. The present study aims to record the genus from China for the first time and to add a third species, T. multispina Jie & Li, sp. nov. to the genus. The new species can be distinguished from the congeners by the antemedial line connecting the postmedial line near the dorsum in the hindwing, and the phallus with a cluster of spine-like cornuti in the male genitalia. Images of the habitus, tympanal organs and male genitalia are provided for the new species.

Two new species of Plectranthias (Teleostei, Serranidae, Anthiadinae) from mesophotic coral ecosystems in the tropical Central Pacific
Two new species of Plectranthias perchlets are described, collected from mesophotic coral ecosystems in French Polynesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, in the tropical Central Pacific. Plectranthias polygonius sp. nov. was collected at a depth of 105 m in Tahiti, French Polynesia, and 120 m in Maloelap Atoll, Republic of the Marshall Islands. It was also observed in Moorea and Rangiroa (French Polynesia), and at Majuro and Erikub Atolls, Republic of the Marshall Islands. Plectranthias hinano sp. nov. was collected at a depth of 90–98 m in Tahiti, French Polynesia, and observed in Moorea. The barcode fragment of the cytochrome oxidase I gene of Plectranthias polygonius sp. nov. does not closely match any published sequence of Plectranthias, with approximately 15% uncorrected divergence from several species. Plectranthias polygonius sp. nov. can be distinguished from all of its congeners by coloration and morphology. The barcode fragment of the COI gene of Plectranthias hinano sp. nov. is closest to Plectranthias bennetti, with 5.4% uncorrected divergence. Plectranthias hinano sp. nov. is also distinguished from all of its congeners by morphology, and a coloration that includes two indistinct black spots along the base of the dorsal-fin, and transparent yellow dorsal and anal fin membranes. With this publication, the genus Plectranthias now comprises 58 valid species, with representatives from tropical to temperate waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. These two new discoveries add to the growing body of research highlighting the rich biodiversity of mesophotic ecosystems.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Bdelloid rotifers (Rotifera, Bdelloidea) of China: diversity and new records
Bdelloid rotifers are a group of microscopic invertebrates known for their obligate parthenogenesis and exceptional resistance to extreme environments. Their diversity and distributions are poorly studied in Asia, especially in China. In order to better understand the species distribution and diversity of bdelloid rotifers in China, a scientific surveys of habitats was conducted with 61 samples (both terrestrial and aquatic habitats) from 11 provinces and regions of China, ranging from tropics to subtropics with a specific focus on poorly sampled areas (Oriental) during September 2017 to October 2018. A total of 59 morphospecies (including subspecies) were found, of which, thirty-nine morphospecies (including one genus) are new records for China, almost doubling the number of previous records. Four rare morphospecies (Adineta cf. acuticornis Haigh, A. beysunae Örstan, Habrotrocha ligula loxoglotta De Koning and H. serpens Donner) are depicted and redescribed, and an updated checklist of Chinese bdelloids with their location and ecological information is presented. This study provides new data from a large region of China, enriching the knowledge of bdelloid biodiversity, and their global biogeography.
["bdelloids"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

A new millipede-parasitizing horsehair worm, Gordius chiashanus sp. nov., at medium altitudes in Taiwan (Nematomorpha, Gordiida)
Gordius chiashanus sp. nov., a newly described horsehair worm that parasitizes the Spirobolus millipede, is one of the three described horsehair worm species in Taiwan. It is morphologically similar to G. helveticus Schmidt-Rhaesa, 2010 because of the progressively broadening distribution of bristles concentrated on the male tail lobes, but it is distinguishable from G. helveticus because of the stout bristles on the mid-body. In addition, a vertical white stripe on the anterior ventral side and areoles on the inside wall of the cloacal opening are rarely mentioned in other Gordius species. Free-living adults emerged and mated on wet soil under the forest canopy in the winter (late November to early February) at medium altitudes (1100–1700 m). Mucus-like structure covering on the body surface, which creates a rainbow-like reflection, might endow the worm with high tolerance to dehydration. Although Gordius chiashanus sp. nov. seems to be more adaptive to the terrestrial environment than other horsehair worm species, cysts putatively identified as belonging to this hairworm species found in the aquatic paratenic host, Ephemera orientalis McLachlan, 1875, suggest the life cycle of Gordius chiashanus sp. nov. could involve water and land. The free-living adults emerged from the definitive hosts might reproduce in the terrestrial environment or enter an aquatic habitat by moving or being washed away by heavy rain instead of manipulating the behavior of their terrestrial definitive hosts.
["definitive host"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Description of a new Barsine Walker, 1854 from India and Nepal (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae, Lithosiini)
A new species, B. kirata Volynkin & N. Singh, sp. nov., similar to B. germana, is described from India and Nepal. The existence of two colour forms in some species of the genus Barsine Walker, 1854 is revealed. A new synonymy is established for Barsine germana (Rothschild, 1913), which includes two forms that were described as three different species: Barsine germana (Rothschild, 1913) (the yellow form) = B. valvalis Kaleka, 2003, syn. nov., and B. thomasi Kaleka, 2003, syn. nov. (the red-spotted forms).
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Two new genera and species of the Gigantometopini (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae, Isometopinae) from Borneo with remarks on the distribution of the tribe
Two new genera, each represented by a single new species, Planicapitus luteus Taszakowski, Kim & Herczek, gen. et sp. nov. and Bruneimetopus simulans Taszakowski, Kim & Herczek, gen. et sp. nov., are described from Borneo. Detailed photographs of male habitus and genital structures are presented. The checklist with distributional records for all known taxa of Gigantometopini is also provided.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

Hyphalus shiyuensis sp. nov. from Xisha Islands, China (Coleoptera, Limnichidae, Hyphalinae)
Hyphalus shiyuensis sp. nov. is described from Xisha Islands of China, which represents the ninth species and provides new distribution information for this unique intertidal genus. Brief comparisons between the new species and the known species are given. An updated key to the species of genus Hyphalus is provided.
["Hyphalus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

New cheiracanthiid spiders from Xishuangbanna rainforest, southwestern China (Araneae, Cheiracanthiidae)
Four new species of the genus Cheiracanthium C.L. Koch, 1839 from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China are described: C. daofeng Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. duanbi Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), C. gou Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♂), and C. wuquan Yu & Li, sp. nov. (♀). In addition, Sinocanthium Yu & Li, gen. nov., is described with the type species S. shuangqiu Yu & Li, sp. nov. A key to cheiracanthiid genera distributed in East and Southeast Asia is provided.
["key to genera"]

Eight new species of the spider genus Pimoa (Araneae, Pimoidae) from Tibet, China
Eight new species of the spider genus Pimoa Chamberlin & Ivie, 1943 are described from Tibet, China: P. cona Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. duiba Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. lemenba Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. mainling Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. nyingchi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. rongxar Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. samyai Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), and P. yadong Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). The DNA barcodes of the eight new species are documented.

Two new and one newly recorded species of Thelcticopis Karsch, 1884 (Araneae, Sparassidae) from China
Two new species of the genus Thelcticopis Karsch, 1884, T. dahanensis Zhu & Zhong, sp. nov. (♂) and T. unciformis Zhu & Zhong, sp. nov. (♂), are described and figured from Taiwan Island. Thelcticopis severa (L. Koch, 1875) is recorded from Guangdong and Fujian provinces for the first time. So far, Thelcticopis, including four species from China, is mainly distributed in the tropical or subtropical areas of China (Hainan, Taiwan, Yunnan, Guangdong, Fujian).

Notes on Macroteleia Westwood (Hymenoptera, Scelionidae) from China, with description of a new species
The wasp genus Macroteleia Westwood from China has been previously revised, but some species are only known from males. Here the females of two known species are described: M. carinigena Chen, Johnson, Masner & Xu and M. gracilis Chen, Johnson, Masner & Xu. In addition, one species is redescribed: M. variegata Kozlov & Kononova; and one species is described as new: Macroteleia xui Hong & Chen, sp. nov. Macroteleia ischtvani Kononova, syn. nov. is proposed as new synonym of M. variegata Kozlov & Kononova.
["Egg parasitoid"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies"]

Taxonomic revision and phylogenetic position of the flying squirrel genus Biswamoyopterus (Mammalia, Rodentia, Sciuridae, Pteromyini) on the northern Indo-China peninsula
The flying squirrel genus Biswamoyopterus (Rodentia: Sciuridae: Pteromyini) was once considered to contain three species, Biswamoyopterus biswasi from northeastern India, B. laoensis from central Laos and B. gaoligongensis from southwest China, all identified from morphological characteristics of one or two specimens. However, based on similar morphological characteristics of two samples of the genus Biswamoyopterus collected recently from northern Laos and northern Myanmar, and the small genetic distances on mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA between them, the results strongly support these two samples as representatives of the same species. The phylogenetic analyses strongly support Biswamoyopterus as an independent genus of Pteromyini, as a sister group to Aeromys. Biswamoyopterus biswasi is distributed in the northern Indo-China peninsula, where it is exposed to a series of threats, such as intense hunting activity, illegal trade, and rapid habitat loss; this should warrant its classification as critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List criteria. Here, the molecular data for genus Biswamoyopterus and two new specimen records from northern Laos and northern Myanmar are presented.
["Biswamoyopterus"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Immature stages of Palearctic Mecinus species (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Curculioninae): morphological characters diagnostic at genus and species levels
The immature stages of ten Mecinus species are described for the first time and those of two other species are redescribed, adding important chaetotaxy characters that were missing from previous descriptions. These species belong to six of the nine assemblages of Mecinus species previously established according to a phylogenetic analysis. All these groupings are confirmed on the basis of several characters of mature larvae and pupae. Moreover, all the species show several characters that are useful for distinguishing them from each other, including cryptic species that previously had few differential characters. Some characters that may be useful for separating Mecinus from other genera in the tribe are suggested. To confirm the taxonomic identification of some larvae, the mtCOII gene was obtained and compared with sequences from identified adult specimens. The most important characters for separating the immature stages of the genera and species groups in Mecinus are the number of palpomeres of the labial palpi (1 or 2), the number of air tubes of the thoracic and abdominal spiracles (unicameral or bicameral), and the number of epipharyngeal setae. The species studied herein were compared with those known from other genera in the tribe Mecinini. Two keys, one to the described larvae and the other to the pupae, are provided. Detailed biological data, several of which are new, on some species are reported.
["biology"]

Two new species of the millipede genus Plusioglyphiulus Silvestri, 1923 from Cambodia (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida)
Two new species of Plusioglyphiulus are described from southern Cambodia. Plusioglyphiulus biserratus sp. nov. is clearly distinguished from all congeners by the shape of the telopodites of the posterior gonopods which are distinctly serrate laterally and by the anterior gonopods showing only a pair of single, smooth and curved coxosternal processes. Plusioglyphiulus khmer sp. nov. is distinguished by having most crests on the collum being complete and male legs 1 showing long, prominent, one-segmented telopodites, coupled with the oblong-subtrapeziform, membranous, posterior gonopods with a small bifid process at about a third of the telopodite length. Notes on the variation of Plusioglyphiulus boutini Mauriès, 1970 are also given, including a colour photograph of fresh, live material. A key to all four species of Plusioglyphiulus currently known to occur in Cambodia is also presented.
["cave"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Discovery of a new species of the genus Triarthron Märkel, 1840 (Coleoptera, Leiodidae) with a key to Japanese species of the tribe Sogdini
In the genus Triarthron (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Leiodinae), only two species are known to occur in Palearctic and Nearctic regions. In this paper, a new species in Japan, Triarthron itoi Hoshina, sp. nov., is described. This brings the number of species in the genus to three. A key to the Japanese species of the tribe Sogdini is given.

Biodiversity data and new species descriptions of polychaetes from offshore waters of the Falkland Islands, an area undergoing hydrocarbon exploration
Benthic environmental impact assessments and monitoring programs accompanying offshore hydrocarbon industry activities result in large collections of benthic organisms. Such collections offer great potential for systematics, biodiversity and biogeography research, but these opportunities are only rarely realised. In recent decades, the hydrocarbon industry has started exploration activities in offshore waters off the Falkland Islands. A large collection of ca. 25,000 polychaete (Annelida) specimens, representing some 233 morphological species was processed at the Natural History Museum, London. Taxonomic assessment led to recognition of many polychaete species that are new to science. The existing taxonomic literature for the region is outdated and many species in existing literature are likely misidentifications. Initially, an online taxonomic guide (http://falklands.myspecies.info) was created, to provide a single taxonomic source for 191 polychaete species to standardise identification across different environmental contractors working in Falkland Islands. Here, this effort is continued to make data available for 18,015 specimens through publication of raw biodiversity data, checklist with links to online taxonomic information and formal descriptions of five new species. New species were chosen across different families to highlight the taxonomic novelty of this area: Apistobranchus jasoni Neal & Paterson, sp. nov. (Apistobranchidae), Leitoscoloplos olei Neal & Paterson, sp. nov. (Orbiniidae), Prosphaerosyllis modinouae Neal & Paterson, sp. nov. (Syllidae) and Aphelochaeta falklandica Paterson & Neal, sp. nov., and Dodecaceria saeria Paterson & Neal, sp. nov. (both Cirratulidae). The potential of the Falkland Islands material to provide up to date informationfor known species described in the literature is also highlighted by publishing images and redescription of Harmothoe anderssoni Bergström, 1916 and Aphelochaeta longisetosa (Hartmann-Schröder, 1965). Biodiversity and abundance data are made available through a DarwinCore database, including material collected from 83 stations at Sea Lion developmental oil field in North Falklands Basin and voucher specimens’ data collected from exploratory oil wells in East Falklands Basin.
["Annelida"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Five new species of Dolichomitus Smith from the tropical Andes, with a key for the South American species (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae)
Dolichomitus Smith is a widely distributed pimpline genus with more than seventy known species. There are eight species previously reported from South America: D. annulicornis (Cameron), D. bivittatus Townes, D. hypermeces Townes, D. jatai Loffredo & Penteado-Dias, D. longicauda Smith, D. megalourus (Morley), D. moacyri Loffredo & Penteado-Dias and D. zonatus (Cresson). In this paper, we describe five new species: D. mariajosae Araujo & Pádua, sp. nov., D. menai Araujo & Pádua, sp. nov., D. orejuelai Araujo & Pádua, sp. nov., D. pimmi Araujo & Pádua, sp. nov., and D. rendoni Araujo & Pádua, sp. nov. All have been collected in cloud forests in the Colombian tropical Andes. An illustrated key to the South American species of the genus is also provided.
["Colombia"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Songthela from Hunan Province, China (Mesothelae, Liphistiidae)
This study reports two new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Songthela from Hunan Province, China, based on morphological characters: S. huangyang sp. nov. (♂♀), S. xiangnan sp. nov. (♂♀). Additional material also facilitates a more accurate description of S. goulouensis (Yin, 2001) with the first description of the male. Nucleotide data for the barcoding gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), is also provided for these three species.

A new species of Tachycines Adelung, 1902 (Orthoptera, Rhaphidophoridae, Aemodogryllinae, Aemodogryllini) from karst caves in Guizhou, China
Tachycines (Gymnaeta) trapezialis sp. nov. (梯形裸灶螽) is described with specimens collected from Diaosiyan and Sanjiaoshan caves in Ziyun County, Guizhou, China. The unique trapezoidal shape of the epiphallus in males and the subgenital plate in females, which separate the new taxon from its congeners, are illustrated.
["Orthoptera"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new species of Sarcophaga (Pandelleisca) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae) from Turkey
A new species, Sarcophaga (Pandelleisca) mersinensis sp. nov. is described from the Mediterranean region of Turkey. The male terminalia are documented with line drawings, photographs and scanning electron microscope images. The species is compared with the two most similar species, Sarcophaga (Pandelleisca) baudeti (Lehrer) and Sarcophaga (Pandelleisca) theodori (Lehrer), both known from Israel. A key is provided to the western Palaearctic species of Pandelleisca Rohdendorf.
["Anatolia"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

New and little-known species of the genus Sphecodes Latreille (Hymenoptera, Halictidae) from Southeast Asia
The available information about the cleptoparasitic bees of the genus Sphecodes in Southeast Asia is summarized. Thirty-one species are currently known from this area. Four new species are described: Sphecodes discoverlifei Astafurova & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Laos), S. engeli Astafurova & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Laos, Vietnam), S. ilyadadaria Astafurova, sp. nov. (Indonesia), and S. pseudoredivivus Astafurova & Proshchalykin, sp. nov. (Laos). Nine species are newly recorded from South East Asia: S. chaprensis Blüthgen, 1927 (Laos), S. howardi Cockerell, 1922 (Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand), S. kershawi Perkins, 1921 (Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand), S. laticeps Meyer, 1920 (Thailand, Vietnam), S. montanus Smith, 1879 (Laos), S. sauteri Meyer, 1925 (Laos), S. sikkimensis Blüthgen, 1927 (Laos, Myanmar), S. simlaensis Blüthgen, 1924 (Laos), and S. turneri Cockerell, 1916 (Laos). Based on type specimens, new synonymies have been proposed for Sphecodes kershawi Perkins, 1921 = S. javanensis Blüthgen, 1927, syn. nov.; S. simlaensis Blüthgen, 1924 = S. simlaellus Blüthgen, 1927, syn. nov.; S. laticeps Meyer, 1920 = S. biroi mariae Cockerell, 1930, syn. nov. Lectotypes are designated for Sphecodes biroi Friese, 1909, S. simlaellus Blüthgen, 1927, and S. laticeps Meyer, 1920. The female of Sphecodes sauteri Meyer, 1925, and the male of S. turneri Cockerell, 1916 are described for the first time.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

The genus Scaptodrosophila Duda (Diptera, Drosophilidae), part III: the riverata species group from China, with morphological and molecular evidence for five new species
A new species group, the riverata species group, is established within the genus Scaptodrosophila based on morphological and molecular evidence for five known and five new species from China: S. abdentata sp. nov., S. cederholmi (Okada, 1988), S. crocata (Bock, 1976), S. paraclubata (Sundaran & Gupta, 1991), S. platyrhina sp. nov., S. puncticeps (Okada, 1956), S. riverata (Singh & Gupta, 1977), S. serrateifoliacea sp. nov., S. sinuata sp. nov. and S. tanyrhina sp. nov. A key to this group is provided. Furthermore, 51 mtDNA COI sequences belonging to S. puncticeps, S. riverata and the five new species are used for verifying species boundaries defined by the morphological data.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Island mysteries in the spotlight: Barbitistes kaltenbachi and Rhacocleis buchichii, the only bush-cricket species endemic to Croatia (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae)
Hvar Saw Bush-cricket Barbitistes kaltenbachi Harz, 1965 (Phaneropterinae: Barbitistini) and Lesina Bush-cricket Rhacocleis buchichii Brunner von Wattenwyl in Herman 1874 (Tettigoniinae: Platycleidini) are flightless orthopterans restricted to a narrow area in the Mediterranean part of Croatia, both originally described from Hvar Island. In this study, all available information on these two interesting species is presented: data on morphology, bioacoustics, distribution, habitat, and a key to identification of the species belonging to genera Barbitistes and Rhacocleis in Croatia. The songs of both B. kaltenbachi and R. buchichii are described here for the first time, with the former one being the second known example of a synchronising and presumably duetting species. Both species were reassessed according to the IUCN Red List criteria, where B. kaltenbachi should be considered an endangered species, while R. buchichii is suggested to be downgraded to a less threatened category. Biogeography and evolution of the species are briefly discussed.
["Adriatic"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Habitat requirements affect genetic variation in three species of mayfly (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from South Africa
This study investigates genetic diversity in three species of Ephemeroptera, one eurytopic and therefore widespread (Afroptilum sudafricanum) and two stenotopic and thus endemic (Demoreptus natalensis and Demoreptus capensis) species, all of which co-occur in the southern Great Escarpment, South Africa. Mitochondrial DNA was analysed to compare the genetic diversity between the habitat generalist and the two habitat specialists. Afroptilum sudafricanum showed no indication of population genetic structure due to geographic location, while both Demoreptus species revealed clear genetic differentiation between geographic localities and catchments, evident from phylogenetic analyses and high FST values from AMOVA. In addition, the phylogenetic analyses indicate some deeper haplotype divergences within A. sudafricanum and Demoreptus that merit taxonomic attention. These results give important insight into evolutionary processes occurring through habitat specialisation and population isolation. Further research and sampling across a wider geographic setting that includes both major mountain blocks of the Escarpment and lowland non-Escarpment sites will allow for refined understanding of biodiversity and associated habitat preferences, and illuminate comparative inferences into gene flow and cryptic speciation.
["cytochrome oxidase 1"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A review of the genus Sinocymbachus Strohecker & Chûjô with description of four new species (Coleoptera, Endomychidae)
This work presents a review of species of the Asian genus Sinocymbachus Strohecker & Chûjô, 1970. Four new species are described from China: S. fanjingshanensis Chang & Bi, sp. nov., S. longipennis Chang & Bi, sp. nov., S. sinicus Chang & Bi, sp. nov., and S. wangyinjiei Chang & Bi, sp. nov. Cymbachus koreanus Chûjô & Lee, 1993 is transferred to Sinocymbachus as S. koreanus (Chûjô & Lee) comb. nov. Sinocymbachus bimaculatus (Pic, 1927) is reported for the first time from China. The male of S. parvimaculatus (Mader, 1938) is discovered and described for the first time. Illustration, diagnosis and distribution are provided for each species. Prior to the present study, Sinocymbachus included ten species. An updated key to the species of Sinocymbachus is given.

New faunal data on lacewings (Insecta, Neuroptera) collected from Saudi Arabia
This study presents new data on the lacewing fauna of Saudi Arabia based on field work performed between 2014 and 2019. Sixty-one lacewing species from 37 genera and seven Neuroptera families were documented. Additionally, two species belonging to Dielocroce and Pseudomallada were identified only to genus level. Three of the identified species are new records to Saudi Arabia (Aspoeckiella gallagheri Hölzel, 2004, Bankisus maculosus Hölzel, 1983, and Nemoleon secundus Hölzel, 2002). Another three species are new to the fauna of the Arabian Peninsula (Mantispa aphavexelte Aspöck & Aspöck, 1994, Omoleon jeanneli Navás, 1936, and Stylascalaphus krueperi van der Weele, 1909). The first reports of eight species are provided after their original description from Saudi Arabia; namely, Creoleon ultimus Hölzel, 983, Cueta amseli Hölzel, 1982, Cu. asirica Hölzel, 1982, Distoleon asiricus Hölzel, 1983, Geyria pallida Hölzel, 1983, Neuroleon delicatus Hölzel, 1983, N. virgineus Hölzel, 1983 and Solter buettikeri Hölzel, 1982 Zoogeographically, most lacewing species documented in the Arabian Peninsula are endemic (26.2%), followed by Afro-syroeremic (23.0%), Afrotropical (18.0%), and Afro-syro-iranoeremic (14.8%) species. Palaearctic species (4.9%) had the lowest contribution.

A new species of squat lobster of the genus Hendersonida (Crustacea, Decapoda, Munididae) from Papua New Guinea
Hendersonida parvirostris sp. nov. is described from Papua New Guinea. The new species can be distinguished from the only other species of the genus, H. granulata (Henderson, 1885), by the fewer spines on the dorsal carapace surface, the shape of the rostrum and supraocular spines, the antennal peduncles, and the length of the walking legs. Pairwise genetic distances estimated using the 16S rRNA and COI DNA gene fragments indicated high levels of sequence divergence between the new species and H. granulata. Phylogenetic analyses, however, recovered both species as sister species, supporting monophyly of the genus.
["Anomura"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

New and little known Isotomidae (Collembola) from the shore of Lake Baikal and saline lakes of continental Asia
Collembola of the family Isotomidae from the shores of Lake Baikal and from six saline lake catenas of the Buryat Republic (Russia) and Inner Mongolia Province (China) were studied. Pseudanurophorus barathrum Potapov & Gulgenova, sp. nov. and Parisotoma baicalica Potapov & Gulgenova, sp. nov. from Baikal and Ephemerotoma buryatica Potapov, Huang & Gulgenova, sp. nov. and Folsomia mongolica Huang & Potapov, sp. nov. from saline lakes are described here. A morphological description of epitokous males of Scutisotoma acorrelata Potapov, Babenko & Fjellberg, 2006 is given. A list of 23 species of the family Isotomidae found in the shores of studied lakes is provided based on literature sources and newly collected material.
["arid zone"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine and environmental studies", "Radioactive contamination and transfer"]

Description of a new Tegenaria Latreille, 1804 from southern Turkey with remarks on the Tegenaria ariadnae species-complex (Arachnida, Araneae)
A new cave-dwelling species of Tegenaria, T. lazarovi sp. nov., is described from southern Turkey, based on both sexes. The new species belongs to the T. ariadnae species-complex which is distributed in the Eastern Mediterranean (Crete, northern Libya). The new species is compared to its morphologically closest congeners. New taxonomically relevant pictures are given for two of them. The distribution of the Tegenaria ariadnae species-complex is summarized and discussed.
["Cave fauna"]

Two new cyclophoroid species from Hubei, China, with proposal of a new genus (Gastropoda, Caenogastropoda, Diplommatinidae and Alycaeidae)
Two new species, Sinoarinia feii Chen, gen. et sp. nov. and Pincerna vallis Chen & Wu, sp. nov., are described from western Hubei, China. The new genus Sinoarinia Chen & Wu, gen. nov. is established based on the strongly constricted penultimate whorl and the ascending last whorl. The Vietnamese species Pincerna costulosa (Bavay & Dautzenberg) is newly reported from Yunnan, China. For comparison, photographs of the shells of closely related species are provided. A key to the known species of Sinoarinia gen. nov. is included.
["new genus"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Geological Formations and Processes Exploration"]

Even hotter hotspot: description of seven new species of many-plumed moths (Lepidoptera, Alucitidae) from Mount Cameroon
Mount Cameroon, SW Cameroon, has already been described as a unique hotspot of the many-plumed moth (Lepidoptera, Alucitidae), with their local diversity unrivalled in the entire Afrotropics. We confirm its importance with description of seven new species: Alucita bakweri Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita jana Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita bakingili Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita tatjana Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita zuza Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., Alucita deja Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov., and Alucita bokwango Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. nov. These descriptions have raised the known local diversity of many-plumed moth species on Mount Cameroon to 22, i.e., over a quarter of the known Afrotropical biodiversity of this group. This study also emphasises the great conservation importance of the area.
["Alucita"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Seven new species of spider-attacking Hymenoepimecis Viereck (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) from Ecuador, French Guiana, and Peru, with an identification key to the world species
Seven new species of Hymenoepimecis Viereck are described from Peruvian Andes and Amazonia, French Guiana and Ecuador: H. andina Pádua & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov., H. castilloi Pádua & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov., H. dolichocarinata Pádua & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov., H. ecuatoriana Pádua & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov., H. longilobus Pádua & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov., H. pucallpina Pádua & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov., and H. rafaelmartinezi Pádua & Sääksjärvi, sp. nov. In addition, the male of the Hymenoepimecis kleini Pádua & Sobczak, 2015 is described, new faunistic records for the genus provided, as well as an illustrated identification key to all known species of the genus.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Review of the genus Chasmogenus Sharp, 1882 of northeastern South America with an emphasis on Venezuela, Suriname, and Guyana (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Acidocerinae)
The water scavenger beetle genus Chasmogenus Sharp, 1882 is reviewed in northeastern South America using an integrative approach that combines adult morphology and molecular data from the gene cytochrome c oxidase I (COI). Eighteen new species are described: Chasmogenus acuminatus sp. nov. (Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname), C. amplius sp. nov. (Venezuela), C. berbicensis sp. nov. (Guyana), C. brownsbergensis sp. nov. (Suriname), C. castaneus sp. nov. (Venezuela), C. clavijoi sp. nov. (Venezuela), C. cuspifer sp. nov. (Venezuela), C. flavomarginatus sp. nov. (Venezuela), C. gato sp. nov. (Venezuela), C. guianensis sp. nov. (Suriname, Guyana), C. ignotus sp. nov. (Brazil), C. ligulatus sp. nov. (Suriname), C. lineatus sp. nov. (Venezuela), C. pandus sp. nov. (Brazil, French Guiana, Suriname), C. schmits sp. nov. (Suriname), C. sinnamarensis sp. nov. (French Guiana), C. tafelbergensis sp. nov. (Suriname), and C. undulatus sp. nov. (Guyana). We found genetic support for an additional new species in Guyana which is currently only known from females that we refer to as Chasmogenus sp. C. We examined the holotypes of the four species previously known from the region, and found that C. occidentalis García syn. nov. and C. yukparum García syn. nov. are conspecific with C. bariorum García, 2000 and are synonymized with that species, which is here redescribed. We redescribe C. australis García and expand the range of this species to include northern Brazil, Guyana, and French Guiana. All species are aquatic, with most being associated with forested streams and forest pools. Of the 21 species, more than half (11) are only known from a single locality indicating the genus may have many more micro-endemic species yet to be discovered in the region. Characters of the male genitalia are essential for confirming the identity of some species, consequently it is not always possible to make positive identifications of unassociated female specimens based on morphology alone. Habitus images are provided as well as a revised key to the genus for northeastern South America.
["South America"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Hippocampus nalu, a new species of pygmy seahorse from South Africa, and the first record of a pygmy seahorse from the Indian Ocean (Teleostei, Syngnathidae)
A new species and the first confirmed record of a true pygmy seahorse from Africa, Hippocampus nalu sp. nov., is herein described on the basis of two specimens, 18.9–22 mm SL, collected from flat sandy coral reef at 14–17 meters depth from Sodwana Bay, South Africa. The new taxon shares morphological synapomorphies with the previously described central Indo-Pacific pygmy seahorses, H. colemani, H. japapigu, H. pontohi, and H. satomiae, and H. waleananus, including diminutive size, twelve trunk rings, prominent cleithral ring and supracleithrum, spines on the fifth and twelfth superior and lateral trunk ridges, respectively, and prominent wing-like protrusions present on the first and/or second superior trunk rings posterior to the head. Hippocampus nalu sp. nov. is primarily distinguished from its pygmy seahorse congeners by highly distinct spine morphology along the anterior segments of the superior trunk ridge. Comparative molecular analysis reveals that the new species demonstrates significant genetic divergence in the mitochondrial COI gene from the morphologically similar H. japapigu and H. pontohi (estimated uncorrected p-distances of 16.3% and 15.2%, respectively). Hippocampus nalu sp. nov. represents the eighth member of the pygmy seahorse clade to be described from the Indo-Pacific, the first confirmed record from the African continent and the Indian Ocean, and an extension of more than 8000 km beyond the previously known range of pygmy seahorses from the Central and Western Indo-Pacific.
["Aquatic life and conservation", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Three new species of the subgenus Otocepheus (Acrotocepheus) (Acari, Oribatida, Otocepheidae) from China
Three new species of subgenus Otocepheus (Acrotocepheus): O. (A.) digitatus sp. nov., O. (A.) multigranulatus sp. nov., and O. (A.) occultatus sp. nov. are proposed and described based on adult material collected from China, and O. (A.) duplicornutus Aoki, 1965 is reported in China for the first time. A key to Chinese species of the subgenus Acrotocepheus is provided.
["oribatid mites"]

New faunistic records of the family Mycetophilidae (Insecta, Diptera) from Morocco
A total of 54 species of Mycetophilidae are recorded for the first time in Morocco, of which 38 species are new to North Africa. A first checklist of Moroccan Mycetophilidae is appended, containing 64 species in 25 genera.
["Beni Snassen"]

Taxonomic revision of Telemidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from East and Southeast Asia
Species of the spider family Telemidae Fage, 1913 from East and Southeast Asia are revised. Four new genera are erected: Mekonglema Zhao & Li, gen. nov. with the type species Mekonglema bailang Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan, China), Siamlema Zhao & Li, gen. nov. with the type species Siamlema changhai Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, southern Thailand), Sundalema Zhao & Li, gen. nov. with the type species Sundalema bonjol Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Sumatra), and Zhuanlema Zhao & Li, gen. nov. with the type species Zhuanlema peteri Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, northern Laos). Eight additional new species are described: Mekonglema kaorao Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, northern Laos), M. walayaku Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan, China), M. yan Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Yunnan, China), Pinelema daguaiwan Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Guangxi, China), P. shiba Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, Guangxi, China), P. tham Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, northern Laos), Siamlema suea Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, southern Thailand), and Sundalema khaorakkiat Zhao & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀, southern Thailand). Thirty species are transferred from the genus Telema Simon, 1882 to the genera Pinelema Wang & Li, 2012, Sundalema gen. nov., and Telemofila Wunderlich, 1995. Seychellia xinpingi Lin & Li, 2008 is transferred to Mekonglema gen. nov. as M. xinpingi comb. nov. Furthermore, the genus Pinelema is divided into seven species groups based on male morphological characters.
["Haplogynae"]

A new species of buffalo leech in the genus Hirudinaria Whitman, 1886 (Arhynchobdellida, Hirudinidae) from Thailand
Hirudinaria manillensis (Lesson, 1842), commonly known as the buffalo leech, shows a polymorphism of two ventral colorations. The green color morph has a plain green ventral surface and the red color morph has a brick-red ventral surface with two black submarginal stripes. Based on molecular and morphological evidence in the present study, these two color morphs were revealed as two different species. The red color morph fits well with the description of H. manillensis, while the green color morph showed some distinctions, and therefore is described herein as Hirudinaria thailandica Jeratthitikul & Panha, sp. nov. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by the dark greenish or dark olive ventral surface and a round atrium with ventral insertion of ejaculatory ducts in the male reproductive organ. A phylogenetic tree based on concatenated data of COI and 28S genes supported the new species and further indicated it as a sister species to H. bpling Phillips, 2012.
["Hirudinaria manillensis"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Unexpected discovery of a new Podonychus species in Kyushu, Japan (Coleoptera, Elmidae, Elminae, Macronychini)
Podonychus gyobu sp. nov., a second species of the genus Podonychus Jäch & Kodada, 1997, hitherto known only from Indonesia, is described from Kyushu, Japan. This new species is similar to P. sagittarius Jäch & Kodada, 1997, but differs from it in the straight penis, arcuate 2nd labial palpomere, and in the 3rd antennomere being longer than wide. The endophallic structures and the larva of P. gyobu sp. nov. are described. A character matrix of the Macronychini genera and a key to the Japanese genera are provided.
["disjunct distribution"]

A new stump-toed frog from the transitional forests of NW Madagascar (Anura, Microhylidae, Cophylinae, Stumpffia)
A new species of the miniaturised microhylid frog genus Stumpffia, from north-western Madagascar, is described. Stumpffia froschaueri sp. nov. differs from all other described Stumpffia species in colouration and morphology and is genetically divergent (≥ 7% uncorrected p-distance to all other nominal species of the genus) in a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene and in a segment of the nuclear Rag-1 gene. The new species is reliably known only from a few specimens collected in the Sahamalaza (and surroundings) region. Its known distribution is limited to three forest patches severely threatened by fire, drought and high levels of forest clearance, thus suggesting a classification of “Critically Endangered” according to IUCN Red List criteria.

Integrative taxonomy of the rock-dwelling gecko Cnemaspis siamensis complex (Squamata, Gekkonidae) reveals a new species from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, southern Thailand
The rock-dwelling gecko genus Cnemaspis is one of the most species-diverse genera of gekkonid in Thailand. Earlier studies relied on morphological data to identify species, but cryptic morphology often obscured species diversity in Cnemaspis. In this study, an integrative taxonomic approach based on morphological characters and sequences of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene were used to clarify current taxonomy of the Cnemaspis siamensis complex and delimit a new species from Lan Saka District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, southern Thailand. Cnemaspis lineatubercularis sp. nov. is distinguished from other congeneric species by the combination of morphological characters: (1) maximum snout-vent length (SVL) of 40.6 mm (mean 38.8 ± SD 1.4, N = 12) in adult males and maximum SVL of 41.8 mm (mean 39.5 ± SD 1.9, N = 7) in adult females; (2) 8–9 supralabial and infralabial scales; (3) gular, pectoral, abdominal, and subcaudal scales keeled; (4) rostral, interorbitals, supercilium, palmar scales, and ventral scales of brachia smooth; (5) 5–6 small, subconical spine-like tubercles present on flanks; (6) 19–21 paravertebral tubercles linearly arranged; (7) 27–29 subdigital lamellae under the fourth toe; (8) 4–7 pore-bearing precloacal scales, pores rounded arranged in chevron shape and separated only in males; (9) one postcloacal tubercles each side in males; (10) ventrolateral caudal tubercles present anteriorly; (11) caudal tubercles restricted to a single paravertebral row on each side; (12) single median row of subcaudal scales keeled and lacking enlarged median row; and (13) gular region, abdomen, limbs and subcaudal region yellowish only in males. Genetically, the uncorrected pairwise divergences between the new species and their congeners in the C. siamensis group were between 15.53–28.09%. The new species is currently known only from granitic rocky streams at Wang Mai Pak Waterfall in the Nakhon Si Thammarat mountain range. Its discovery suggests that additional unrecognized species of Cnemaspis may still occur in unexplored areas of southern Thailand.
["Cnemaspis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

A new genus of the Hypocera group (Diptera, Phoridae), with descriptions of two new species from China
A new genus, Sinogodavaria gen. nov., with two new species, S. multiformis sp. nov. and S. tenebrosa sp. nov., is described from China. It belongs phylogenetically to the Hypocera group of genera. The species Latiborophaga bathmis Liu is transferred to the new genus. A key to species of the new genus is presented.
["Diptera"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Rediscovery and phylogenetic relationships of the scolopendromorph centipede Mimops orientalis Kraepelin, 1903 (Chilopoda): a monotypic species of Mimopidae endemic to China, for more than one century
Mimops orientalis Kraepelin, 1903 is a monotypic species of Mimopidae endemic to China. The species is known only from a single specimen, the holotype. Little is known about its biology, habitat associations, or phylogenetic relationships. It was rediscovered on Qinling Mountain in Shaanxi and Henan provinces, China, 117 years after its last record. Detailed descriptions and colour photographs of living specimens are provided along with its ecology, updated conservation notes, and data on sexual dimorphism. A genetic analysis (COI, 16S rRNA, and 28S rRNA) was conducted to assess the phylogenetic relationships among Mimopidae, Cryptopidae, Scolopendridae, Scolopocryptopidae, and Plutoniumidae. The results support classifying Mimopidae as a valid family.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

The megascolecid earthworms (Annelida, Oligochaeta, Megascolecidae) in the Phu Quoc island, Vietnam, with descriptions of three new species
The megascolecid earthworms of the Phu Quoc island are intensively investigated. Twelve species in three genera (Lampito Kinberg, 1867, Amynthas Kinberg, 1867, and Metaphire Sims & Easton, 1972) are recorded. Of these, Metaphire doiphamon Bantaowong & Panha, 2016 is recorded for the first time in Vietnam, and three species are newly described, namely Amynthas catenatus sp. nov., A. phuquocensis sp. nov., and A. poropapillatus sp. nov. An identification key to 12 megascolecid species is provided as well.

Hungry scale worms: Phylogenetics of Peinaleopolynoe (Polynoidae, Annelida), with four new species
Polynoidae Kinberg, 1856 has five branchiate genera: Branchipolynoe Pettibone, 1984, Branchinotogluma Pettibone, 1985, Branchiplicatus Pettibone, 1985, Peinaleopolynoe Desbruyères & Laubier, 1988, and Thermopolynoe Miura, 1994, all native to deep-sea, chemosynthetic-based habitats. Of these, Peinaleopolynoe has two accepted species; Peinaleopolynoe sillardi Desbruyères & Laubier, 1988 (Atlantic Ocean) and Peinaleopolynoe santacatalina Pettibone, 1993 (East Pacific Ocean). The goal of this study was to assess the phylogenetic position of Peinaleopolynoe, utilizing DNA sequences from a broad sampling of deep-sea polynoids. Representatives from all five branchiate genera were included, several species of which were sampled from near the type localities; Branchinotogluma sandersi Pettibone, 1985 from the Galápagos Rift (E/V “Nautilus”); Peinaleopolynoe sillardi from organic remains in the Atlantic Ocean; Peinaleopolynoe santacatalina from a whalefall off southern California (R/V “Western Flyer”) and Thermopolynoe branchiata Miura, 1994 from Lau Back-Arc Basin in the western Pacific (R/V “Melville”). Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using mitochondrial (COI, 16S rRNA, and CytB) and nuclear (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, and H3) genes. The analyses revealed four new Peinaleopolynoe species from the Pacific Ocean that are formally described here: Peinaleopolynoe orphanae Hatch & Rouse, sp. nov., type locality Pescadero Basin in the Gulf of California, Mexico (R/V “Western Flyer”); Peinaleopolynoe elvisi Hatch & Rouse, sp. nov. and Peinaleopolynoe goffrediae Hatch & Rouse, sp. nov., both with a type locality in Monterey Canyon off California (R/V “Western Flyer”) and Peinaleopolynoe mineoi Hatch & Rouse, sp. nov. from Costa Rica methane seeps (R/V “Falkor”). In addition to DNA sequence data, the monophyly of Peinaleopolynoe is supported by the presence of ventral papillae on segments 12–15. The results also demonstrated the paraphyly of Branchinotogluma and Lepidonotopodium Pettibone, 1983 and taxonomic revision of these genera is required. We apply the subfamily name Lepidonotopodinae Pettibone 1983, for the clade comprised of Branchipolynoe, Branchinotogluma, Bathykurila, Branchiplicatus, Lepidonotopodium, Levensteiniella Pettibone, 1985, Thermopolynoe, and Peinaleopolynoe.
["deep sea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Cicinnus chambersi: a new species of sack-bearer moth (Lepidoptera, Mimallonidae, Cicinninae) from southeastern Arizona, USA
A new species of cicinnine Mimallonidae, Cicinnus chambersi sp. nov., is described from the Sky Islands Region of southern Arizona, USA. The new species is closely related to C. mexicana (Druce), type locality Veracruz, Mexico, based on morphology and genetics. The other Cicinnus species known from the United States, the common C. melsheimeri (type locality Pennsylvania, USA) is morphologically and genetically distinct from both C. chambersi and C. mexicana. The new species is compared to C. mexicana and C. melsheimeri, as well as other Mexican Cicinnus. The life history of C. chambersi is unknown, but its description should facilitate future studies on this rarely reported North American mimallonid, a species which may have only recently become established in the United States. Cicinnus chambersi is the fifth known Mimallonidae species from the United States, and the first described from the country in nearly half a century.
["Cicinnus chambersi sp. nov."]

A new genus and two new species of oonopid spiders from Myanmar (Araneae, Oonopidae)
A new genus, Promolotra gen. nov., including two new species, P. hponkanrazi sp. nov. (♂♀) and P. shankhaung sp. nov. (♂), is described from Myanmar. The new genus is similar to Molotra Ubick & Griswold, 2011 but can be distinguished by the completely fused bulb and cymbium, the presence of a receptacle, the absence of grooves connecting either the anterior or posterior pairs of spiracles, and the incised labium of both sexes.
["Goblin spiders"]

Lithobius (Ezembius) varioporus, a new species from eastern China (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
Lithobius (Ezembius) varioporus sp. nov. (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae), recently discovered from Longquanguan Town, Fuping County, Baoding City, Hebei Province, China, is described. Morphologically it resembles to Lithobius (Ezembius) laevidentata Pei, Ma, Hou, Zhu & Gai, 2015 from the Xinjiang Autonomous Region, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by the Tömösváry’s organ, slightly smaller than the adjoining ocelli, no secondary sexual modifications on male tibia 14 and 15, posterior accessory spine of legs 14 and 15 present and the number of coxal pores varying considerably from three to eight. The main morphological characters of the known Chinese species of the subgenusEzembius Chamberlin, 1919 based on adult specimens are presented.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Composition and Natural History of Snakes from Etá Farm region, Sete Barras, south-eastern Brazil
Approximately 140 snake species are known to occur in the Atlantic Forest with nearly half being endemic to this ecoregion. However, the Atlantic forest is one of the most threatened tropical ecoregions, with only 16% of its original area remaining as forest. This extensive habitat loss must have had a negative effect on its snake fauna. Indeed, 53% of the threatened snakes of Brazil occur in the Atlantic forest. Therefore, basic natural history information that can potentially contribute to the conservation of Atlantic forest snakes are urgently needed. Here the natural history of a snake assemblage at Etá Farm region, Sete Barras municipality, south-eastern Brazil is described, and a visual guide and an identification key provided that can be used by researchers and local people to identify snakes from this region. Most of the species found in the field use both open areas and forests, are primarily terrestrial, present diurnal activity, and include frogs in their diet. A higher number of enlarged follicles, eggs, and/or embryos were recorded during the warm and rainy season. Seventeen different types of defensive tactics were recorded in the species found in the field. This study provides useful information for understanding the structure of snake assemblages of the Atlantic Forest and is potentially useful for conservation assessments and for designing conservation plans.
["banana plantation"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Character of woodland fragments affects distribution of myriapod assemblages in agricultural landscape
Fragments of woodland fulfil many irreplaceable functions in the agricultural landscape including being the main source of biodiversity of soil invertebrates. Due to intensive farming and land use changes, especially in the second half of the 20th century, fragments of woodland in agricultural landscape almost disappeared. This has led to a decrease in the diversity of invertebrates, especially those for which the presence of these woodland habitats in the landscape is a key element for survival. The aim of this study was to evaluate the importance of fragments of woodland (characterised by their area, vegetation structure, the amount of leaf litter layer and soil moisture) on the distribution of centipedes and millipedes (Myriapoda) in the agricultural landscape of South Moravia (Czech Republic). Myriapods were collected using pitfall traps during summer in 2016 and 2017. Results showed that activity-density of myriapods is positively correlated with thickness of the leaf litter layer. Moreover, the species richness of centipedes is positively correlated with increasing size of fragments of woodland although higher centipedes’ activity-density was found in rather uniform woodlands in term of diversity of tree species.
["activity-density"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

Subterranean biodiversity and depth distribution of myriapods in forested scree slopes of Central Europe
The shallow underground of rock debris is a unique animal refuge. Nevertheless, the research of this habitat lags far behind the study of caves and soil, due to technical and time-consuming demands. Data on Myriapoda in scree habitat from eleven localities in seven different geomorphological units of the Czech and Slovak Republics were processed. Based on previous studies, as well as knowledge of cave and soil fauna, it was hypothesised that the occurrence of a varied and peculiar fauna would show a pattern of depth distribution with variations due to local specificities. From 2005–2016 (at least one year on each site), macrofauna was collected via sets of three long-term exposed subterranean traps consisting of 110 cm long perforated tube, with ten cups located in a gradient at 5–95 cm below the soil surface. In total, 14 symphylans (not identified to species level), 271 centipedes (23 spp.) and 572 millipedes (32 spp.) were sampled. The overall depth distribution of centipedes and millipedes appeared to have relatively similar pattern, with both groups being found at all depth levels. Nevertheless, this pattern depends on locations. The depth distribution trend lines are mostly in the form of an asymmetric ‘U’, with decreased abundance until the middle of the gradient, followed by increase in the deepest levels. Epigeic species were sporadically distributed along the whole depth gradient, but concentrated at the soil surface, while some subterranean species, such as the centipede Lithobius lucifugus and the millipedes Geoglomeris subterranea, Cibiniulus slovacus and Archiboreoiulus pallidus, were recorded in the deepest parts of the gradient. This characterises the debris community as a mixture of soil and subterranean species with an absence of species exclusively found in caves. The use of different fixation methods in traps had a significant and selective impact on samples; millipedes were either attracted by ethylene glycol or repelled by formaldehyde. Centipedes were also captured more frequently in ethylene glycol; however, the species composition varied in each of the fixatives. Depth distribution of myriapods was similar in both fixative solutions. Traps with these fixatives could be recommended for similar ecological studies.
["Chilopoda"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

No Tömösváry organ in flat backed millipedes (Diplopoda, Polydesmida)
The Tömösváry organ is a sensory structure of the head in myriapods and some other terrestrial arthropods. Due to its variable shape, size, and position in millipedes (Diplopoda) the Tömösváry organ is commonly used as diagnostic character in taxonomic descriptions and often included in phylogenetic analyses. For the Polydesmida, the largest millipede order, the Tömösváry organ is inconsistently stated as being either absent or present as a pear-shaped pit covered by a membrane or cuticular disc. In order to resolve this inconsistency, we investigated the morphology of the presumable Tömösváry organ in four polydesmidan species based on paraffin-histology, semi-thin sections and micro-computed tomography. Our results unambiguously favor the view that the articulation of the cephalic tentorium with the head capsule was misidentified as the Tömösváry organ in previous studies, and thus that the Tömösváry organ indeed is absent in the Polydesmida. The pear-shaped pit proved to represent the distal roundish expansion of the incisura lateralis, to which – similarly as in julidan millipedes – the tentorial transverse bar is articulated. The absence of the Tömösváry organ in the Polydesmida does not affect the topology of the interrelationships among the millipede orders retrieved in previous cladistic analyses based on morphology. As a character shared by Colobognatha and Juliformia, however, absence of a Tömösváry organ in Polydesmida favors the optimization of its presence in nematophoran millipedes as a reversal. Further studies are needed to clarify whether among chilognathan millipedes a Tömösváry organ really exists in taxa such as Stemmiulida, and whether the Tömösváry organs are homologous across millipedes.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

The millipede genus Globanus Attems, 1914, endemic to São Tomé and Príncipe, with the description of a new species (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Spirostreptidae)
During a soil zoological expedition to São Tomé and Príncipe in 2010 by the California Academy of Sciences, millipedes of the genus Globanus were collected. Samples of G. marginescaber (Karsch, 1884) and G. integer (Karsch, 1884) were recovered in addition to those containing a new species. Globanus drewesi sp. nov. is described and additional records, illustrations, and descriptive notes are given for the other two species. A key to all three species of the genus is provided, and a distribution map is presented. The monotypic genus Lobogonus Demange, 1971, which includes L. trilobatus Demange, 1971, from Sierra Leone, mainland western Africa, is revalidated and removed from synonymy under Globanus. Lobogonus is illustrated from a type specimen.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Some new or poorly-known Zephroniidae (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida) from Vietnam
Three new species of the giant pill-millipede family Zephroniidae are described from southern Vietnam: Sphaerobelum pumatense sp. nov., Sphaeropoeus honbaensis sp. nov. and Sphaeropoeus bidoupensis sp. nov. Two species, Sphaerobelum bicorne Attems, 1938 and Sphaeropoeus maculatus (Verhoeff, 1924), are redescribed, the former from new material, the latter from type material with lectotype designation. A new transfer is proposed: Zephronia manca Attems, 1936, to the genus Sphaeropoeus Brandt, 1833, giving the new combination, Sphaeropoeus manca (Attems, 1936) comb. nov.
["biological observations"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

The millipedes collected by the Museum "La Specola" on Madagascar 1989/1991, with the description of three new species of giant pill-millipedes (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida, Arthrosphaeridae)
A large collection of millipedes (Diplopoda) from Madagascar, belonging to the Museum “La Specola” in Florence, Italy were investigated. The collection includes three new species of the giant pill-millipede genus Zoosphaerium Pocock, 1895 which are described here as Zoosphaerium mangabe Wesener, sp. nov., Z. bartolozzii Anilkumar & Wesener, sp. nov., and Z. taitii Anilkumar & Wesener, sp. nov., all belonging to the Z. coquerelianum species group. The latter two are currently only known from a single site. Other specimens belonging to eight orders (Polyxenida, Sphaerotheriida, Polyzoniida, Siphonophorida, Chordeumatida, Polydesmida, Spirobolida, and Spirostreptida) are listed. Three tropical tramp species, Pseudospirobolellus avernus (Butler, 1876), Glyphiulus granulatus Gervais, 1847, and Chondromorpha xanthotricha (Attems, 1898) are recorded for the first time from Madagascar. New locality data is provided for Zoosphaerium neptunus (Butler, 1872), Z. villosum Wesener & Sierwald, 2005, Z. blandum (de Saussure & Zehntner, 1897), Sphaeromimus musicus (de Saussure & Zehntner, 1897), Rhinotus purpureus (Pocock, 1894), Hylekobolus andasibensis Wesener, 2009, Aphistogoniulus infernalis Wesener, 2009, Ostinobolus rufus Wesener, 2009, Ostinobolus subterraneus Wesener, 2009, Dactylobolus bivirgatus (Karsch, 1881), and Eumekius antimena (de Saussure & Zehntner, 1901).
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

The genera Erhaia and Tricula (Gastropoda, Rissooidea, Amnicolidae and Pomatiopsidae) in Bhutan and elsewhere in the eastern Himalaya
Shells of the Rissooidea species that are known from Bhutan are characterized. Tricula montana is reported from that country for the first time. Two Erhaia species from Bhutan are described as new to science, viz. E. jannei sp. nov., and E. pelkiae sp. nov., The holotypes of the Erhaia species that were described from Nepal are figured with photographs for the first time and compared with the congeneric taxa from Bhutan and India. Erhaia nainitalensis is considered a senior synonym of E. chandeshwariensis. An identification key is presented for the Erhaia species of the Himalayan foothills.
["Erhaia"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of the toothed toad Oreolalax (Anura, Megophryidae) from Sichuan Province, China
The toad genus Oreolalax is widely distributed in southwest China and northern Vietnam. A new species of the genus is described from Sichuan Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA gene sequences supported the new species as an independent clade clustered into the clade also containing O. nanjiangensis and O. chuanbeiensis. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body size moderate (SVL 51.2–64.2 mm in males); head broad; tympanum hidden; interorbital region with dark triangular pattern; belly with marbling; male lacking spines on lip margin; spiny patches on chest small with thick sparse spines in male; nuptial spines thick and sparse; tibio-tarsal articulation reaching beyond nostril when leg stretched forward; toe webbing at base.

Revision of the Orbamia Herbulot, 1966 group of genera with description of two new genera, ten new species, and two new subspecies (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae, Cassymini)
The genus Orbamia Herbulot, 1966 is revised. Two new genera are described: Rabomia Hausmann & Tujuba, gen. nov. (type species: Ectropis ? subaurata Warren, 1899), and Morabia Hausmann & Tujuba, gen. nov. (type species: Morabia politzari Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov.). Ten new species and two new subspecies are described: Rabomia obscurior Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from western Africa, Morabia politzari Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from Kenya, Morabia brunnea Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from Zambia, Orbamia marginata Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from Tanzania, Orbamia clarissima Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from Kenya, Orbamia clarior Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from Kenya, Orbamia obliqua Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from Zambia, Orbamia obliqua parva Hausmann & Tujuba, subsp. nov., from South Africa, Orbamia abiyi Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from Zambia, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Orbamia emanai Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov., from Ethiopia, Orbamia emanai lenzi Hausmann & Tujuba, subsp. nov., from Zambia and Malawi, and Orbamia balensis Hausmann & Tujuba, sp. nov. from Ethiopia. The taxon Lepiodes ocellata Warren, 1897 is raised from synonymy of O. octomaculata (Wallengren, 1872) to species rank (Zambia, Tanzania, Rwanda). The taxonomical analysis is based on both morphological and genetic cytochrome oxidase I (COI) data. Adults and male and female genitalia of all species are illustrated.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Geographic boundaries and natural history notes of the microendemic endangered frog Eupsophus migueli Formas, 1977 (Alsodidae) in the Mahuidanche Range, southern Chile
Eupsophus migueli is considered a microendemic endangered species inhabiting the temperate Nothofagus forests of the Mahuidanche Range of southern Chile. However, this categorization is based on scarce data about its distribution and natural history. In order to assess these parameters, this article reports new geographic records obtained through intensive fieldwork between 2011 and 2016. Considering this, an updated distribution map for E. migueli is proposed, and new data about natural history traits and habitat use are provided. The information obtained in this study is discussed considering the zoogeographical importance of E. migueli, and confirms the species IUCN conservation status.

Description of six new large species of Argentinomyia Lynch-Arribálzaga, 1891 and redescription of Talahua fervida (Fluke, 1945) (Diptera, Syrphidae, Syrphinae)
The morphological similarities between five new large Argentinomyia species and Talahua fervida Fluke are characterized and presented. Six new species of Argentinomyia (10–12 mm long) are described: Argentinomyia andina Montoya & Wolff, sp. nov. (Colombia), Argentinomyia choachi Montoya, sp. nov. (Colombia), Argentinomyia quimbaya Montoya & Wolff, sp. nov. (Colombia), Argentinomyia huitepecensis Montoya, sp. nov. (México), Argentinomyia puntarena Montoya, sp. nov. (Costa Rica), and Argentinomyia talamanca Thompson, sp. nov. (Costa Rica). The genus Talahua Fluke is re-diagnosed and, Talahua fervida redescribed. A taxonomic key and a comparison of diagnostic characters are presented. Photographs of head, abdominal and wing maculae patterns, as well as illustrations of male genitalia are provided for species identification.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Evolutionary relationships and population genetics of the Afrotropical leaf-nosed bats (Chiroptera, Hipposideridae)
The Old World leaf-nosed bats (Hipposideridae) are aerial and gleaning insectivores that occur throughout the Paleotropics. Both their taxonomic and phylogenetic histories are confused. Until recently, the family included genera now allocated to the Rhinonycteridae and was recognized as a subfamily of Rhinolophidae. Evidence that Hipposideridae diverged from both Rhinolophidae and Rhinonycteridae in the Eocene confirmed their family rank, but their intrafamilial relationships remain poorly resolved. We examined genetic variation in the Afrotropical hipposiderids Doryrhina, Hipposideros, and Macronycteris using relatively dense taxon-sampling throughout East Africa and neighboring regions. Variation in both mitochondrial (cyt-b) and four nuclear intron sequences (ACOX2, COPS, ROGDI, STAT5) were analyzed using both maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. We used intron sequences and the lineage delimitation method BPP—a multilocus, multi-species coalescent approach—on supported mitochondrial clades to identify those acting as independent evolutionary lineages. The program StarBEAST was used on the intron sequences to produce a species tree of the sampled Afrotropical hipposiderids. All genetic analyses strongly support generic monophyly, with Doryrhina and Macronycteris as Afrotropical sister genera distinct from a Paleotropical Hipposideros; mitochondrial analyses interpose the genera Aselliscus, Coelops, and Asellia between these clades. Mitochondrial analyses also suggest at least two separate colonizations of Africa by Asian groups of Hipposideros, but the actual number and direction of faunal interchanges will hinge on placement of the unsampled African-Arabian species H. megalotis. Mitochondrial sequences further identify a large number of geographically structured clades within species of all three genera. However, in sharp contrast to this pattern, the four nuclear introns fail to distinguish many of these groups and their geographic structuring disappears. Various distinctive mitochondrial clades are consolidated in the intron-based gene trees and delimitation analyses, calling into question their evolutionary independence or else indicating their very recent divergence. At the same time, there is now compelling genetic evidence in both mitochondrial and nuclear sequences for several additional unnamed species among the Afrotropical Hipposideros. Conflicting appraisals of differentiation among the Afrotropical hipposiderids based on mitochondrial and nuclear loci must be adjudicated by large-scale integrative analyses of echolocation calls, quantitative morphology, and geometric morphometrics. Integrative analyses will also help to resolve the challenging taxonomic issues posed by the diversification of the many lineages associated with H. caffer and H. ruber.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Geology and paleontology of the Upper Cretaceous Kem Kem Group of eastern Morocco
The geological and paleoenvironmental setting and the vertebrate taxonomy of the fossiliferous, Cenomanian-age deltaic sediments in eastern Morocco, generally referred to as the “Kem Kem beds”, are reviewed. These strata are recognized here as the Kem Kem Group, which is composed of the lower Gara Sbaa and upper Douira formations. Both formations have yielded a similar fossil vertebrate assemblage of predominantly isolated elements pertaining to cartilaginous and bony fishes, turtles, crocodyliforms, pterosaurs, and dinosaurs, as well as invertebrate, plant, and trace fossils. These fossils, now in collections around the world, are reviewed and tabulated. The Kem Kem vertebrate fauna is biased toward large-bodied carnivores including at least four large-bodied non-avian theropods (an abelisaurid, Spinosaurus, Carcharodontosaurus, and Deltadromeus), several large-bodied pterosaurs, and several large crocodyliforms. No comparable modern terrestrial ecosystem exists with similar bias toward large-bodied carnivores. The Kem Kem vertebrate assemblage, currently the best documented association just prior to the onset of the Cenomanian-Turonian marine transgression, captures the taxonomic diversity of a widespread northern African fauna better than any other contemporary assemblage from elsewhere in Africa.
["Paleontology and Evolutionary Biology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

After 157 years, a second specimen and species of the phylogenetically enigmatic and previously monobasic genus Nototylus Gemminger & Harold, 1868 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Nototylini)
The enigmatic beetle tribe Nototylini (Carabidae) is revised and a key to species is provided. Two species from South America are included in the genus. One species, Nototylus fryi (Schaum), is reviewed and a second, Nototylus balli Erwin & Kavanaugh, sp. nov., is described as new. Each species is known from a single specimen, neither of which is in good condition. The possible function of what appears to be a unique antennal grooming structure on the front femur is discussed.
["Brazil"]

Revision of the genus Hoplodrina Boursin, 1937 (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Xyleninae). I. Hoplodrina octogenaria (Goeze, 1781) and its sister species H. alsinides (Costantini, 1922) sp. rev. in Europe
The taxonomic status of the European Hoplodrina octogenaria (Goeze, 1781) is discussed and its partly sympatric sister species, Hoplodrina alsinides (Costantini, 1922) sp. rev., is separated and re-described based on morphological and molecular taxonomic evidence. The adults and their genitalia are illustrated and DNA barcodes, as well as genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism data collected by fractional genome sequencing (ddRAD), of the two species are provided.

A new species of cryptic Bush frog (Anura, Rhacophoridae, Raorchestes) from northeastern Bangladesh
Raorchestes is a speciose genus of bush frogs with high diversity occurring in the Western Ghats of India. Relatively fewer species have been recorded across India, through Bangladesh, southern China, into Vietnam and Peninsular Malaysia. Many bush frogs are morphologically cryptic and therefore remain undescribed. Here, a new species, Raorchestes rezakhani sp. nov., is described from northeastern Bangladesh based on morphological characters, genetics, and bioacoustics. The 16S rRNA gene distinguished this species from 48 known species of this genus. Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood analyses indicated that the new species was most similar to R. tuberohumerus, a species found in the Western Ghats, and to R. gryllus, a species found in Vietnam. Bioacoustics indicated that their calls were similar in pattern to most Raorchestes species, although number of pulses, duration of pulses, pulse intervals and amplitude differentiated it from a few other species. It is suggested that northeastern India, Bangladesh, northern Myanmar, and southern China represent important, relatively unexplored areas that could yield additional species of Raorchestes. Since many remaining habitat patches in Bangladesh are under severe threat from deforestation, efforts should be made to protect these last patches from further degradation.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Study on the Pauropoda (Myriapoda) from Tibet, China – Part II: New species and new record of the genus Samarangopus
The pauropod family Eurypauropodidae Ryder, 1879 is recorded from Tibet, China for the first time. In this study, a new species Samarangopus zhongi sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Motuo County, southeastern Tibet of China. It is distinguished from other species in this genus by having one pair of spiniform appendages on the sternum of the last trunk segment, 28–34 marginal protuberances on tergite I, the distal quarter of bothriotricha T3 golf-club-shaped, and the leaf-shaped seta st on tergum of pygidium. In addition, Samarangopus canalis Scheller, 2009 is newly recorded from China.
["appendages"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Two new pseudoscorpion species (Pseudoscorpiones, Chthoniidae, Cheiridiidae) from the Tonga Islands, Polynesia, with a redescription of the genus Nesocheiridium
The genera Tyrannochthonius Chamberlin, 1929 and Nesocheiridium Beier, 1957 are recorded from the Tonga Islands, Polynesia, for the first time. Tyrannochthonius eua sp. nov. is described from the island of Eua. Nesocheiridium onevai sp. nov. is described from the island of Onevai. This is the first discovery of a representative of the genus Nesocheiridium in more than 60 years. The holotype of the type species, Nesocheiridium stellatum Beier, 1957, is redescribed, allowing a better understanding of this poorly known genus. The genus Nesocheiridium is diagnosed by the following combination of characters: integument coarsely granulate, dorsally granulo-reticulate; vestitural setae either relatively long, with a leaf-like outline, or arcuate with a small spine; cucullus short; only 10 abdominal tergites visible in dorsal view; cheliceral rallum of four blades; venom apparatus present in both chelal fingers; fixed chelal finger with granulate swelling mesally and seven trichobothria; trichobothria ib and ist located distad of granulate swelling; eb and esb situated close together at the base of the finger; moveable chelal finger with two trichobothria.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Integrative description of Diosaccus koreanus sp. nov. (Hexanauplia, Harpacticoida, Miraciidae) and integrative information on further Korean species
A new species of Diosaccus Boeck, 1873 (Arthropoda, Hexanauplia, Harpacticoida) was recently discovered in Korean waters. The species was previously recognized as D. ezoensis Itô, 1974 in Korea but, here, is described as a new species, D. koreanus sp. nov., based on the following features: 1) second inner seta on exopod of fifth thoracopod apparently longest in female, 2) outer margin of distal endopodal segment of second thoracopod ornamented with long setules in male, 3) caudal seta VII located halfway from base of rami (vs. on anterior extremity in D. ezoensis), and 4) sixth thoracopod with three setae in female (vs. 2 setae in D. ezoensis). In addition, there is also a mitochondrial COI sequence difference of more than 19.93% with D. ezoensis registered in NCBI. A key to Diosaccus species of the world is also provided, and new morphological features and DNA sequences are presented for two other harpacticoid species, Parathalestris verrucosa Itô, 1970 and Peltidium quinquesetosum Song & Yun, 1999. In order to clearly identify harpacticoids at the species level, both morphological and DNA sequence characteristics should be considered.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

A new species of Cyrtodactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Cambodia’s Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary
Cyrtodactylus phnomchiensis sp. nov. is described from Phnom Chi, an isolated mountain in Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary, Kampong Thom Province, Cambodia. The new species is recognized by having a unique combination of morphological characters, including snout-vent length 76.1–80.7 mm; paravertebral tubercles 31–36; ventral scales 45–54; enlarged femoral scales 0–8, without pores; enlarged precloacal scales 7–10, bearing pores 4–5 in males, pits 1–7 in females; the posterior border of nuchal loop unbroken and pointed, bordered anteriorly and posteriorly by a broad yellow or yellowish white band; and yellow spots on top of head. The new species also represents a divergent mitochondrial DNA lineage within the C. irregularis complex that is closely related to C. ziegleri, but the phylogenetic relationships among the new species and two divergent mitochondrial subclades within C. ziegleri are not resolved based on available sequence data. Cyrtodactylus phnomchiensis sp. nov. is the only member of the C. irregularis complex known to occur west of the Mekong River. The new species may be endemic to Phnom Chi, and likely faces imminent conservation threats.
["Cyrtodactylus irregularis"]

A new species of rake-legged mite, Caeculus cassiopeiae (Prostigmata, Caeculidae), from Canada and a systematic analysis of its genus
The genus Caeculus Dufour (Prostigmata, Caeculidae) contains 19 previously described species, most of which are found in North America, and for which no comprehensive phylogenetic treatment exists. Here, one new species from Alberta, Canada, is described: Caeculus cassiopeiae Bernard & Lumley, sp. nov., and another caeculid known to be present in Canada is documented. The new species is characterized within the genus with a character state matrix, from which an updated key is produced. A systematic analysis of all 20 species based on morphological and geographical distribution traits obtained from literature represents the first phylogenetic review of the genus.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

A new species of hagfish, Eptatretus wandoensis sp. nov. (Agnatha, Myxinidae), from the southwestern Sea of Korea
Four specimens of the five-gilled white mid-dorsal line hagfish, Eptatretus wandoensis sp. nov. were recently collected from the southwestern Sea of Korea (Wando). This new species has five pairs of gill apertures, 14–18 prebranchial slime pores, 4 branchial slime pores, a dark brown back with a white mid-dorsal line and a white belly. These hagfish are similar to Eptatretus burgeri and Eptatretus minor in having a white mid-dorsal line, but can be readily distinguished by the numbers of gill apertures (5 vs. 6–7), gill pouches (5 vs. 6), and prebranchial slime pores (14–18 vs. > 18), as well as the body color (dark brown back vs. gray or brown pale). In terms of genetic differences, Eptatretus wandoensis could be clearly distinguished from E. burgeri (0.9% in 16S rRNA and 8.5% in cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences) and E. minor (4.5% and 13.9%).
["mitochondrial DNA"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Redescriptions of two parasitoids, Metapelma beijingense Yang (Hymenoptera, Eupelmidae) and Spathius ochus Nixon (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), parasitizing Coraebus cavifrons Descarpentries & Villiers (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) in China with keys to genera or species groups
Two parasitoids, Metapelma beijingense Yang (Hymenoptera, Eupelmidae) and Spathius ochus Nixon (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) are redescribed and illustrated. Both were reared from Coraebus cavifrons Descarpentries & Villiers (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) boring in Symplocos stellaris Brand (Symplocaceae). Metapelma beijingense is a solitary parasitoid with a parasitism rate of about 13.5% and S. ochus is a gregarious parasitoid with a parasitism rate of about 21.2%. A revised key to Oriental and Palaearctic species of Metapelma Westwood and a key to the species of the Spathius labdacus-group are provided.
["Coraebus"]

A remarkable new species of the millipede genus Trachyjulus Peters, 1864 (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Cambalopsidae) from Thailand, based both on morphological and molecular evidence
A new, giant species of Trachyjulus from a cave in southern Thailand is described, illustrated, and compared to morphologically closely related taxa. This new species, T. magnus sp. nov., is much larger than all other congeners and looks especially similar to the grossly sympatric T. unciger Golovatch, Geoffroy, Mauriès & VandenSpiegel, 2012, which is widespread in southern Thailand. Phylogenetic trees, both rooted and unrooted, based on a concatenated dataset of the COI and 28S genes of nine species of Cambalopsidae (Trachyjulus, Glyphiulus, and Plusioglyphiulus), strongly support the monophyly of Trachyjulus and a clear-cut divergence between T. magnus sp. nov. and T. unciger in revealing very high average p-distances of the COI gene (20.80–23.62%).
["cave"]

Sitticine jumping spiders: phylogeny, classification, and chromosomes (Araneae, Salticidae, Sitticini)
The systematics of sitticine jumping spiders is reviewed, with a focus on the Palearctic and Nearctic regions, in order to revise their generic classification, clarify the species of one region (Canada), and study their chromosomes. A genome-wide molecular phylogeny of 23 sitticine species, using more than 700 loci from the arachnid Ultra-Conserved Element (UCE) probeset, confirms the Neotropical origins of sitticines, whose basal divergence separates the new subtribe Aillutticina (a group of five Neotropical genera) from the subtribe Sitticina (five genera of Eurasia and the Americas). The phylogeny shows that most Eurasian sitticines form a relatively recent and rapid radiation, which we unite into the genus Attulus Simon, 1868, consisting of the subgenera Sitticus Simon, 1901 (seven described species), Attulus (41 described species), and Sittilong Prószyński, 2017 (one species). Five species of Attulus occur natively in North America, presumably through dispersals back from the Eurasian radiation, but an additional three species were more recently introduced from Eurasia. Attus palustris Peckham & Peckham, 1883 is considered to be a full synonym of Euophrys floricola C. L. Koch, 1837 (not a distinct subspecies). Attus sylvestris Emerton, 1891 is removed from synonymy and recognized as a senior synonym of Sitticus magnus Chamberlin & Ivie, 1944. Thus, the five native Attulus in North America are Attulus floricola, A. sylvestris, A. cutleri, A. striatus, and A. finschi. The other sitticines of Canada and the U.S.A. are placed in separate genera, all of which arose from a Neotropical radiation including Jollas Simon, 1901 and Tomis F.O.Pickard-Cambridge, 1901: (1) Attinella Banks, 1905 (A. dorsata, A. concolor, A. juniperi), (2) Tomis (T. welchi), and (3) Sittisax Prószyński, 2017 (S. ranieri). All Neotropical and Caribbean “Sitticus” are transferred to either Jollas (12 species total) or Tomis (14 species). Attinella (three species) and Tomis are both removed from synonymy with Sitticus; the synonymy of Sitticus cabellensis Prószyński, 1971 with Pseudattulus kratochvili Caporiacco, 1947 is restored; Pseudattulus Caporiacco, 1947 is synonymized with Tomis. Six generic names are newly synonymized with Attulus and one with Attinella. Two Neotropical species are described as new, Jollas cupreus sp. nov. and Tomis manabita sp. nov. Forty-six new combinations are established and three are restored. Three species synonymies are restored, one is new, and two are rejected. Across this diversity of species is a striking diversification of chromosome complements, with X-autosome fusions occurring at least four times to produce neo-Y sex chromosome systems (X1X2Y and X1X2X3Y), some of which (Sittisax ranieri and S. saxicola) are sufficiently derived as to no longer preserve the simple traces of ancestral X material. The correlated distribution of neo-Y and a base autosome number of 28 suggests that neo-Y origins occurred preferentially in lineages with the presence of an extra pair of autosomes.
["Amycoida"]

New morphological and molecular data for Xystretrum solidum (Gorgoderidae, Gorgoderinae) from Sphoeroides testudineus (Tetraodontiformes, Tetraodontidae) in Mexican waters
Adults of trematodes in the genus Xystretrum Linton, 1910 (Gorgoderidae, Gorgoderinae) are parasites found exclusively in the urinary bladders of tetraodontiform fishes. However, limited and unclear morphological data were used to describe the type species, X. solidum Linton, 1910. Here, we present the first detailed morphological information for a member of Xystretrum. Morphological characters were described using light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of Xystretrum specimens from Sphoeroides testudineus (Linnaeus) (Tetraodontiformes, Tetraodontidae), collected at six localities off the northern Yucatan Peninsula coast of the Gulf of Mexico. We also compared sequence fragments of the 28S (region D1–D3) ribosomal DNA and mitochondrial Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene with those available for other gorgoderine taxa. We assigned these Xystretrum specimens to X. solidum, despite the incompleteness of published descriptions. The data provide a foundation for future work to validate the identities of X. solidum, X. papillosum Linton, 1910 and X. pulchrum (Travassos, 1920) with new collections from the type localities and hosts. Comparisons of 28S and COI regions described here also provide an opportunity to evaluate the monophyletic status of Xystretrum.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Aquaculture disease management and microbiota"]

The wild bees (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) of the island of Cyprus
Cyprus, the third largest island in the Mediterranean, constitutes a biodiversity hotspot with high rates of plant endemism. The wild bees of the island were studied extensively by the native George Mavromoustakis, a world-renowned bee taxonomist, who collected extensively on the island from 1916 to 1957 and summarised his results in a series of eight Cyprus-specific papers published from 1949 [“1948”] to 1957. The current work represents the first modern checklist of the wild bees of Cyprus, based on a compilation of previous publications, museum specimens and authors’ recent collections. Overall, 369 verified wild bee species have been recorded on the island, with eleven species reported from Cyprus for the first time. The island hosts all six of the globally widespread bee families, with Apidae represented by 110 species, Megachilidae with 91, Andrenidae with 76, Halictidae with 72, Colletidae with 19, and Melittidae with 1. Twenty-one of the recorded bee species are endemic (i.e., 5.7 % endemism rate) and Cyprus ranks third after Lesvos and Sicily in known bee species richness among the Mediterranean islands. Previously unpublished records from various locations on Cyprus for 156 previously reported bee species are also provided in the study. The current work provides a baseline for future studies of wild bee diversity on the island of Cyprus and neighbouring regions.
["Bee species richness"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Diversity of the southern Africa Lacustricola Myers, 1924 and redescription of Lacustricola johnstoni (Günther, 1894) and Lacustricola myaposae (Boulenger, 1908) (Cyprinodontiformes, Procatopodidae)
Through the analysis of a comprehensive database of COI sequences, with the sequencing of 48 specimens, a first insight into the genetic diversity, distribution and relationships between the southern Africa “Lacustricola” species is presented. Species from “Lacustricola” occur mainly in freshwater systems within the arid savanna, and are considered to be widely distributed in southern Africa, but most of them are data deficient taxa. Two species are redescribed, “Lacustricola” johnstoni (Günther, 1894) and “Lacustricola” myaposae (Boulenger, 1908), based on specimens collected at their respective type localities. Detailed osteological and life colouration information is presented for the first time. “Lacustricola” johnstoni was described from the Upper Shire River in Mangochi, Lake Malawi but is herein considered as widespread in the Okavango, Zambezi, southern Africa east coastal drainages and the Bangweulu in the Congo System. A sympatric similar species occurring in the Okavango is also identified. “Lacustricola” myaposae (Boulenger, 1908), was described from the Nseleni River in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa and is herein considered to be endemic to the small coastal river drainages within this region. Lectotypes for both “L.” johnstoni and “L.” myaposae are designated. A new species from the Lualaba River in the Congo System, sister to “L.” macrurus is identified, and the deep bodied “L.” jubbi is considered sister taxon to a clade including “L.” johnstoni and “L.” myaposae.
["African lampeyes"]

Two new species of Agaporomorphus Guignot from Suriname (Coleoptera, Adephaga, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Two new species are described in the Neotropical genus Agaporomorphus Guignot from Suriname: A. hamatocoles sp. nov. and A. tortus sp. nov. The species are included in a phylogenetic parsimony analysis of 13 morphological characters and all 12 known species. Two equally parsimonious arrangements are found with the only difference a rearrangement among the A. knischi clade. Agaporomorphus tortus belongs to the A. dolichodactylus group based on presence of an elongate, club-like lobe on the dorsal, basal surface of the male median lobe and long, subsinuate male mesotarsal claws and a small lobe at the apex of male mesotarsomere V. Agaporomorphus hamatocoles does not belong to a known species group and is phylogenetically isolated lacking synapomorphies characterizing the other groups, so the species is placed in its own species group. Male genitalia are illustrated for the new species and redrawn for all the species of the A. dolichodactylus group, and male mesotarsal claws are illustrated for A. tortus and redrawn for other members of the A. dolichodactylus group. New distribution records are reported for Suriname for the species A. colberti Miller and Wheeler and A. pereirai Guignot.
["Agaporomorphus"]

Two new species of Desmopachria Babington, 1841 in the D. convexa species group (Coleoptera, Adephaga, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Hyphydrini)
Two new species are described in the Desmopachria convexa species group in the Neotropical genus Desmopachria Babington: D. manco sp. nov. (Guyana), and D. mortimer sp. nov. (Costa Rica). Two subgroups, the D. convexa-convexa and the D. convexa-signata groups are defined. Desmopachria convexa-convexa species are from North and Central America and have a subapical articulable lobe on the male lateral lobe that is large and elongate and extends well beyond the slender, oblique apex of the lateral lobe. Desmopachria convexa-signata species are from South America and have a subapical articulable lobe on the male lateral lobe that is small and discrete and does not extend beyond the truncate apex of the lateral lobe. The male genitalia of all recognized species in the D. convexa group are redrawn from the literature. New species are illustrated from specimens and described species have morphological features redrawn from published illustrations.

A new Stamnodes from the southwestern United States (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae)
Stamnodes fergusoni sp. nov. occurs from extreme southeastern Arizona through southern New Mexico east into western Texas, USA. Identity of the new species can be reliably determined by external features, genitalic characters, and COI haplotypes. Larvae are believed to be specialists on Salvia pinguifolia and S. ballotiflora. The adult and larval stages and male and female genitalia are illustrated, available DNA barcode data that support the recognition of the new Stamnodes are reviewed, and its life history briefly characterized.

Two freshwater shrimp species of the genus Caridina (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae) from Dawanshan Island, Guangdong, China, with the description of a new species
A faunistic and ecological survey was conducted to document the diversity of freshwater atyid shrimps of Dawanshan Island. Two species of Caridina that occur on this island were documented and discussed. One of these, Caridina tetrazona sp. nov. is described and illustrated as new to science. It can be easily distinguished from its congeners based on a combination of characters, which includes a short rostrum, the shape of the endopod of the male first pleopod, the segmental ratios of antennular peduncle and third maxilliped, the slender scaphocerite, and the absence of a median projection on the posterior margin. Live individuals of the new species display a unique coloration pattern with four dark blue transverse bands on the body, and can be easily recognized in the field. So far, despite considerable surveying efforts made on neighboring islands, this species has only been found from a small stream on Dawanshan Island, which suggests that it may have a very limited range, probably endemic to Dawanshan Island. Molecular characteristics of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) demonstrate that this species shows sufficient interspecific divergence from its congeners, including C. serrata Stimpson, 1860, which was found in four streams on Dawanshan Island, and has been previously reported on the neighboring islands of Hong Kong, Dong’ao, Wailingding, and Guishan.

New cavernicolous ground beetles from Anhui Province, China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechini, Platynini)
A new genus and three new species of cave-adapted ground beetles are reported from the limestone cave Shenxian Dong in Huangshan Shi, southeastern Anhui Province, China. Shenoblemus gen. nov. is proposed to place the anophthalmic trechine species S. minusculus sp. nov. This genus is characterized by the tiny but stout body, sub-moniliform antennae, serrated elytral margins near the base, and a wide distance between the fifth and sixth pores of the marginal umbilicate series on the elytra. In addition, two new species, Wanoblemus huangshanicus sp. nov. (an anophthalmic trechine) and Jujiroa inexpectata sp. nov. (a microphthalmic platynine), are also described and illustrated from the same cave.
["carabids"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Simulium reptans (Linnaeus, 1758) and Simulium reptantoides Carlsson, 1962 from the Balkan Peninsula
Simulium reptans (Linnaeus, 1758) and Simulium reptantoides Carlsson, 1962 are two species of the Simulium reptans group whose distribution is unclear because of their confusing taxonomy and systematics. Their genetic variability is well known for populations in northern and central Europe and shows that both species have two forms; however, the genetic variability of these species in southern and eastern Europe is unknown. To identify the status of these two species in southeast Europe, mtDNA was extracted from 19 individuals from 12 localities across the Balkan Peninsula. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the existence of two species with 7.38–7.94% divergence. Each species was comprised of two clades, with 2.31% and 1.43% interclade divergence for S. reptans and S. reptantoides, respectively. This study revealed the presence of both species across the Balkans and that S. reptans occurs in this area in only one form (S. reptans B), while S. reptantoides is found in two genetic forms (A and B).
["genetic variability"]
["Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

Rustitermes boteroi, a new genus and species of soldierless termites (Blattodea, Isoptera, Apicotermitinae) from South America
We present the description of a new genus and species of soldierless termites from South America. Rustitermes boteroi Constantini, Castro & Scheffrahn, gen. et sp. nov. can be identified by the morphology of the enteric valve, with six slightly asymmetric cushions, each one forming a central pouch made of scales smaller than those between the cushions. The new genus features two characteristic rows of thick bristles on the interior margin of the fore tibia, and is supported by COI molecular sequence data. This species is distributed from Tobago to northern Argentina.
["Neotropics"]

New morphological and molecular data on the little-known pontellid Calanopia media Gurney, 1927 (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida) from the Red Sea, with notes on its diel vertical distribution
As a part of the routine neritic zooplankton collection program in Obhur Creek (central Red Sea, Saudi Arabia), specimens of a pontellid calanoid copepod, Calanopia media Gurney, 1927, were observed and studied. Since the original description was rather brief and drawings limited, especially of mouthparts and legs, which were not illustrated and described, the species is here fully redescribed. Red Sea specimens showed considerable variation in the female genital compound somite, the right caudal ramus and leg 5, as well as in the presence of a medial knob ventrally on the male right prosomal corner. DNA sequences of mtCOI of different specimens did not show any significant differences and supported their identity as one species. Calanopia media exhibited clear diel vertical migration, with high densities of 106 and 150 ind. m-3 during sunset (6:00 pm; UTC+3) and midnight (12:00 am; UTC+3) collections, respectively. However, this species was not observed in other zooplankton collections from the surface to 20 m depth, at 6:00 am and 12:00 pm (UTC+3).
["Calanopia media"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

New record of Didymocorypha Wood-Mason (Mantodea, Eremiaphilidae) from China, with description of a new high-altitude wingless mantis species in Asia
The genus Didymocorypha Wood-Mason, 1877 (Eremiaphilidae, Iridinae) has only been recorded in South Asia, including a sole species D. lanceolata (Fabricius). Here, we firstly extend its distribution to China, with description of one new species D. libaii sp. nov. Didymocorypha libaii sp. nov. lives in an area about 3000 meters above sea level on the southern slope of the Himalayas (Tibet in China), one of the highest-altitude inhabited areas of mantis in the Northern Hemisphere. It is also the first recorded Oriental mantis species in which both sexes are wingless. Life history of the new species, necessary illustrations and ecological images are provided. The distribution of the new Didymocorypha species is discussed and mapped.
["apterous mantis species"]

Epimeria liui sp. nov., a new calcified amphipod (Amphipoda, Amphilochidea, Epimeriidae) from a seamount of the Caroline Plate, NW Pacific
A calcified individual of Epimeria Costa, 1851 collected from an unnamed seamount of the Caroline Plate, NW Pacific, is recognized as new to science herein. This increases the number of known Epimeria species of the North Pacific to nine. Epimeria liui sp. nov. differs from its similar congeners by having a rostrum hardly reaching to the end margin of first peduncular article of antenna 1, the presence of large pyriform eyes, the size-increasing mid-dorsal teeth starting from pereonite 6 to pleonite 2, the projection on coxa 5 not extending to epimeral plate 1, and by having a nearly quadrate telson notched medially. To facilitate identification the new species is included in a key to Pacific species of Epimeria.
["Amphipoda"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

Two new species of socially parasitic Nylanderia ants from the southeastern United States
In ants, social parasitism is an umbrella term describing a variety of life-history strategies, where a parasitic species depends entirely on a free-living species, for part of or its entire life-cycle, for either colony founding, survival, and/or reproduction. The highly specialized inquiline social parasites are fully dependent on their hosts for their entire lifecycles. Most inquiline species are tolerant of the host queen in the parasitized colony, forgo producing a worker caste, and invest solely in the production of sexual offspring. In general, inquilines are rare, and their geographic distribution is limited, making it difficult to study them. Inquiline populations appear to be small, cryptic, and they are perhaps ephemeral. Thus, information about their natural history is often fragmentary or non-existent but is necessary for understanding the socially parasitic life history syndrome in more detail. Here, we describe two new species of inquiline social parasites, Nylanderia deyrupi sp. nov. and Nylanderia parasitica sp. nov., from the southeastern United States, parasitizing Nylanderia wojciki and Nylanderia faisonensis, respectively. The formicine genus Nylanderia is large and globally distributed, but until the recent description of Nylanderia deceptrix, social parasites were unknown from this genus. In addition to describing the new social parasite species, we summarize the fragmentary information known about their biology, present a key to both the queens and the males of the Nylanderia social parasites, and discuss the morphology of the social parasites in the context of the inquiline syndrome.
["Formicidae"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant and animal studies"]

First records and new information on the associations of echinoderms with other phyla in the rocky reefs of northern Chocó, Colombian Pacific
Rocky reefs of the northern Colombian Pacific (Chocó) are diverse ecosystems that are poorly studied. Echinoderms are one of the principal groups in these ecosystems with associations to different species, including benthic organisms in which they live and other species that use them as hosts. These relationships include fishes, sponges, seaweeds, cnidarians, polychaetes, bryozoans, crustaceans, mollusks, and other echinoderms. For this area, 22 associations were registered, including commensalism, epibionts and parasitism. This work constitutes the first report for the associations of Eucidaris thouarsii with Suberites aff. ficus, E. thouarsii with Ophiothela mirabilis, and Holothuria (Thymiosicia) impatiens with Encheliophis vermicularis. Associations of Pentaceraster cumingi with Zenopontonia soror, and Ophionereis annulata with Malmgreniella cf. variegata are new records for Colombia. This work also expands the range of hosts previously described for Ophiothela mirabilis and expands the distribution of the association between Diadema mexicanum and Echineulima cf. robusta.
["Commensalism"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Notes on the genus Trigonotoma from China, with descriptions of two new species (Carabidae, Pterostichinae)
The genus Trigonotoma in China is studied, with descriptions of two new species, T. digitata sp. nov. and T. constricta sp. nov. One species is reported as new to China, Trigonotoma indica Brullé, 1834. Species relationships within Chinese Trigonotoma are briefly discussed mainly based on the endophallic characters.
["character evolution"]

Revision of the western Palaearctic species of Aleiodes Wesmael (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Rogadinae). Part 2: Revision of the A. apicalis group
The West Palaearctic species of the Aleiodes apicalis group (Braconidae: Rogadinae) as defined by van Achterberg & Shaw (2016) are revised. Six new species of the genus Aleiodes Wesmael, 1838, are described and illustrated: A. carbonaroides van Achterberg & Shaw, sp. nov., A. coriaceus van Achterberg & Shaw, sp. nov., A. improvisus van Achterberg & Shaw, sp. nov., A. nigrifemur van Achterberg & Shaw, sp. nov., A. turcicus van Achterberg & Shaw, sp. nov., and A. zwakhalsi van Achterberg & Shaw, sp. nov. An illustrated key to 42 species is included. Hyperstemma Shestakov, 1940, is retained as subgenus to accommodate A. chloroticus (Shestakov, 1940) and similar species. Fourteen new synonyms are proposed: Rogas bicolor Lucas, 1849 (not Spinola, 1808), Rogas rufo-ater Wollaston, 1858, Rhogas bicolorinus Fahringer, 1932, Rhogas reticulator var. atripes Costa, 1884, and Rhogas similis Szépligeti, 1903, of Aleiodes apicalis (Brullé, 1832); Rogas (Rogas) vicinus Papp, 1977, of Aleiodes aterrimus (Ratzeburg, 1852); Rogas affinis Herrich-Schäffer, 1838, of Aleiodes cruentus (Nees, 1834); Bracon dimidiatus Spinola, 1808, and Rhogas (Rhogas) dimidiatus var. turkestanicus Telenga, 1941, of Aleiodes gasterator (Jurine, 1807); Rogas alpinus Thomson, 1892, of Aleiodes grassator (Thunberg, 1822); Rhogas jaroslawensis Kokujev, 1898, of Aleiodes periscelis (Reinhard, 1863); Rhogas carbonarius var. giraudi Telenga, 1941, of Aleiodes ruficornis (Herrich-Schäffer, 1838); Ichneumon ductor Thunberg, 1822, of Aleiodes unipunctator (Thunberg, 1822); Rogas heterostigma Stelfox, 1953, of Aleiodes pallidistigmus (Telenga, 1941). Neotypes are designated for Rogas affinis Herrich-Schäffer, 1838; Rogas nobilis Haliday (in Curtis), 1834; Rogas pallidicornis Herrich-Schäffer, 1838; Rogas ruficornis Herrich-Schäffer, 1838. Lectotypes are designated for Rhogas (Rhogas) dimidiatus var. turkestanicus Telenga, 1941, and Rhogas hemipterus Marshall, 1897.
["Aleiodes apicalis group"]

New species and new records of Trigonalyidae (Hymenoptera) from Tibet, China
Two new species of Trigonalyidae are described from Tibet (SW China): Jezonogonalos nyingchiensis Chen & van Achterberg, sp. nov., and Taeniogonalos eurysoma Chen & van Achterberg, sp. nov. In total, seven species representing four genera are known from Tibet, and two of them are newly recorded from Tibet: Taeniogonalos bucarinata Chen, van Achterberg, He & Xu, 2014, and Teranishia crenulata Chen, van Achterberg, He & Xu, 2014.
["Hyperparasitoid"]

A new flatworm species of Temnocephala (Rhabdocoela, Temnocephalidae) ectosymbiont on the freshwater crab Valdivia serrata (Decapoda, Trichodactylidae) from Amazonas, Colombia
A new species of temnocephalan is described from the branchial chambers of Valdivia serrata in Colombia as Temnocephala ivandarioi sp. nov. The most distinctive characters of the new species are in the cirrus and the epidermal ‘excretory’ syncytial plates. In the present study, the terminology to describe the cirrus of species of Temnocephala is updated. Comparison between the shape of the cirrus of the temnocephalans associated with trichodactylid crabs is also provided.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation"]

A giant new species of Enchiridium (Polycladida, Prosthiostomidae) from southwestern Japan
We describe a new species of polyclad flatworm, Enchiridium daidai sp. nov., from the rocky subtidal zone in the East China Sea along the coasts of the Kyushu and Okinawa Islands, Japan. Enchiridium daidai sp. nov. is characterized by i) the entire periphery of the dorsal surface narrowly fringed with orange, ii) a marginal-eyespot band extending to the position of the mouth (about anterior one-eighth of body), and iii) two prostatic vesicles covered by a common muscle sheath, which is penetrated by the ejaculatory duct. We performed a molecular phylogenetic analysis based on 945-bp 28S rDNA sequences of 16 species of Prosthiostomidae currently available in public databases in addition to those of E. daidai sp. nov. and Prosthiostomum torquatum Tsuyuki et al., 2019. In the resulting tree, our new species was nested in a clade composed of Enchiridium species. The tree topology was in favor of a taxonomic view that Enchiridium should be defined by having i) a common muscle sheath that encloses two prostatic vesicles and ii) marginal eyespots that may or may not surround the periphery of the dorsal surface.
["Cotylea"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Checklist of aquatic Diptera (Insecta) of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia, a UNESCO world heritage site
Studies on aquatic Diptera in the Plitvice Lakes National Park (Croatia) conducted in the last 50 years have produced 157 species and 7 taxa of aquatic Diptera placed in 13 families. Samples were collected at 25 sampling sites representing the four main types of karst aquatic habitats: spring, stream, tufa barriers and lakes. All records of all the aquatic families of Diptera in Plitvice Lakes NP are summarized, including previously unpublished data. Twelve species new for Plitvice Lakes NP are recorded for the first time, belonging to the families: Chironomidae – Labrundinia longipalpis (Goetghebuer, 1921), Nilothauma brayi (Goetghebuer, 1921), Potthastia longimanus Kieffer, 1922, Polypedilum (Polypedilum) nubeculosum (Meigen, 1804), Tanytarsus brundini Lindeberg, 1963; Dixidae – Dixella autumnalis (Meigen, 1838); Scathophagidae – Acanthocnema latipennis Becker, 1894 and Stratiomyidae – Oxycera pardalina Meigen, 1822, Oxycera limbata Loew, 1862, Oxycera turcica Ustuner & Hasbenli, 2004, Nemotelus pantherinus (Linnaeus, 1758), Oplodontha viridula (Fabricius, 1775). The most species-rich family was the Chironomidae with 62 species (and an additional seven taxa), followed by the Empididae with 22 species and Limoniidae with 19 species. The highest number of species was recorded in springs. The relatively low number of species in certain families and the complete absence of some aquatic families shows that further research into the aquatic Diptera in Plitvice Lakes NP is needed.
["Barrage lake system"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

One new species and one newly recorded species of the genus Lasiochira Meyrick, 1931 (Lepidoptera, Oecophoridae) from China
Lasiochira wuzhishanensis Yin, sp. nov. is described herein from the island province of Hainan, China. It is diagnosed from a similar species, Lasiochira jianfengensis Yin, Wang & Park, 2014. Both species are sympatric in Hainan province, but the latter is also known in northern Vietnam. Lasiochira pallidiptera Yin, Wang & Park, 2014 is recorded for the first time from China. Color images of the adults and genitalia of the above three species are provided. In addition, a checklist and a geographical distribution map of all species of Lasiochira Meyrick are included.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Cryptic diversity and range extension in the big-eyed bat genus Chiroderma (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae)
Since the last systematic review of Chiroderma (big-eyed bats) more than two decades ago, we report on biodiversity surveys that expand the distribution and species diversity of this Neotropical genus. The Caribbean endemic species Chiroderma improvisum is documented for the first time from Nevis in the northern Lesser Antilles. A broader geographic sampling for a molecular analysis identifies a paraphyletic relationship in Chiroderma trinitatum with respect to Chiroderma doriae. Cis-Andean populations of C. trinitatum are most closely related to the morphologically distinctive and allopatrically distributed C. doriae in the Cerrado and Atlantic Forest of Brazil and Paraguay. The sister taxon to this grouping includes trans-Andean populations of C. trinitatum, which we recommend to elevate to species status as C. gorgasi. This is an example of a cryptic species because C. gorgasi was previously considered morphologically similar to C. trinitatum, but more detailed examination revealed that it lacks a posterolabial accessory cusp on the lower second premolar and has a narrower breadth of the braincase. We provide an amended description of Chiroderma gorgasi.
["Chiroderma gorgasi"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

First record of a freshwater bryozoan species in Cuba: Plumatella repens (Linnaeus, 1758) (Phylactolaemata, Bryozoa)
The discovery of Plumatella repens floatoblasts in wetlands of the La Niña Bonita Reservoir and the Ciénaga de Zapata Swamp, Cuba, constitutes the first record of a freshwater bryozoan species on the island and extends the distribution range of the species in the insular Caribbean. Unlike the inland waters of the Lesser Antilles the greater availability of water and lower salinity are likely the main factors that determine the distribution of P. repens in the Greater Antilles.
["Caribbean Islands"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Myxozoan Parasites in Aquatic Species", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

New species of Furculanurida (Collembola, Neanuridae, Pseudachorutinae) from the Luquillo Mountains, Puerto Rico
A new species of Furculanurida is described and illustrated. Furculanurida bistribus sp. nov. differs from other species of the genus by the presence of three eyes, three setae on the dens, and the white and purple coloration pattern. A key for identification of the world species of the genus is included.
["Island"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

First records of the genera Sivaloka Distant, 1906, with two new species from China, and description of a new species of genus Kodaianella Fennah, 1956 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae)
The genus Sivaloka Distant, 1906 (Hemisphaeriinae, Kodaianellini) is recorded from China for the first time, with two new species Sivaloka arcuata Chang & Chen, sp. nov. (China: Guizhou) and Sivaloka trigona Chang & Chen, sp. nov. (China: Guangxi). One new species of Kodaianella Fennah, 1956, Kodaianella furcata Chang & Chen, sp. nov. (China: Guangxi) is also described and illustrated; female genitalia of two known species in Kodaianella are described. A checklist of species of the tribe Kodaianellini with their distribution and a key to genera are provided.
["female genitalia"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Anomoneura taiwanica sp. nov. (Hemiptera, Psylloidea, Psyllidae), a new jumping plant-louse species from Taiwan associated with Morus australis (Moraceae)
Anomoneura taiwanica sp. nov. (Hemiptera, Psylloidea, Psyllidae, Psyllinae) is described based on samples from Taiwan that were previously misidentified as A. mori Schwarz, 1896. Morphological and genetic differences between the two species, as well as their distribution, are detailed and discussed. Comments on the pest status of Anomoneura spp. in East Asia are also provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Two new species of the genus Opopaea (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Myanmar
Two new species of the genus Opopaea Simon, 1892 are reported from Myanmar, O. kanpetlet Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and O. zhigangi Tong & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). Morphological descriptions and photographic illustrations of the two new species are given. All types are preserved in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing (IZCAS).
["Goblin spider"]

Fine-scale species delimitation: speciation in process and periodic patterns in nudibranch diversity
Using the nudibranch genus Amphorina as a model, ongoing speciation is demonstrated, as well as how periodic-like patterns in colouration can be included in an integrated method of fine-scale species delimitation. By combining several methods, including BPP analysis and the study of molecular, morphological, and ecological data from a large number of specimens within a broad geographic range from northern Europe to the Mediterranean, five species are recognised within the genus Amphorina, reviewed here for the first time. Two new species from the southwestern coast of Sweden are described, A. viriola sp. nov. and A. andra sp. nov. Evidence is provided of a recent speciation process between the two closely related, yet separate, species which inhabit the same geographic localities but demonstrate strict water depth differentiation, with one species inhabiting the shallow brackish top layer above the halocline and the other species inhabiting the underlying saltier water. The results presented here are of relevance for currently debated issues such as conservation in relation to speciation, fine species delimitation, and integration of molecular, morphological and ecological information in biodiversity studies. The periodic approach to biological taxonomy has considerable practical potential for various organismal groups.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

A cryptic new species of Chlidonoptera Karsch, 1892 from the south west protected zone of the Central African Republic (Insecta, Mantodea, Hymenopodidae)
Between 1998 and 2012, several scientific expeditions in Dzanga-Sangha Special Reserve and Dzanga-Ndoki National Park led to the collection of many Mantodea specimens from Central African Republic (CAR). Among these specimens, several males of an undescribed species were discovered. Morphologically, this species most closely resembles to Chlidonoptera vexillum Karsch, 1892 and Chlidonoptera lestoni Roy, 1975. A new lineage was revealed by DNA barcoding. Therefore, a new species is described, Chlidonoptera roxanae sp. nov. Habitus images, genitalia illustrations and descriptions, measurement data, a key to species, natural history information, and locality data are provided. These results add to the evidence that cryptic species can be found in tropical regions, a critical issue in efforts to document global species richness. They also illustrate the value of DNA barcoding, especially when coupled with traditional taxonomic tools, in disclosing hidden diversity.

Checklist of hover flies (Diptera, Syrphidae) of the Republic of Georgia
A checklist of the Syrphidae species of the Republic of Georgia is presented. New hover fly (Diptera: Syrphidae) records from Georgia are provided as a result of field work conducted in 2018. At the same time, published syrphid records for the country are here reviewed and updated. A total of 357 species of hoverflies are now documented from Georgia, 40 of which are reported for the first time. Moreover, DNA barcodes were sequenced for 238 specimens, representing 74 species from this country.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

New species of smiley-faced spider Spintharus (Araneae, Theridiidae) from Brazil, and comments on unobserved diversity in South America
Spintharus is a genus of spiders that contained only two species until 2018 when it was demonstrated that a ‘widespread’ species was instead composed of multiple short-range endemics. This note redescribes Spintharus gracilis Keyserling and describes a new species of Spintharus (Araneae, Theridiidae), S. leverger sp. nov., both based on specimens from Brazil. We also examine specimens from several additional localities in Brazil displaying variation consistent with patterns previously found within the Caribbean: geographically isolated and unique localities may contain independent species lineages. Given the limited number of specimens, profuse variation, and lack of DNA data from museum specimens, it is challenging to gauge the number of species in the observed material. Instead of describing these as new species here, we highlight this variation and hypothesize that in South America, a greater diversity of the genus across the geographical landscape will be found than predicted based on Levi’s “widespread Spintharus flavidus” hypothesis. Our results suggest that continental efforts to sample the genus would be profitable, as this charismatic group likely harbors unappreciated diversity throughout the continent.

Maritime trap-jaw ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Ponerinae) of the Indo-Australian region – redescription of Odontomachus malignus Smith and description of a related new species from Singapore, including first descriptions of males
The maritime trap-jaw ant Odontomachus malignus Smith, 1859 is thought to be widespread throughout islands in the Indo-Pacific and parts of the Oriental realm. Because of its unique nesting preference for harsh littoral habitat and distinct morphology, O. malignus has usually been assumed to consist of only one species. We, however, describe a new species similar to O. malignus found in the mangroves of Singapore, Southeast Asia – Odontomachus litoralis sp. nov. We find strong evidence of both species existing in (near) sympatry, and also distinct morphological differences between O. malignus and the new species. Additional complementary DNA evidence in the form of COI barcodes (313 bp) supporting putative species identification and delimitation is provided. Defining morphological characteristics for the O. malignus species group (nested within the larger O. infandus clade) are given in detail for the first time. The worker and queen castes of the new species are described; a redescription of the worker caste of O. malignus, based on specimens from Singapore and the Philippines in addition to the holotype, is also given. The males of both species are also described for the first time, including male genitalia. A preliminary key to most known species of the O. infandus group based on the worker caste is provided.
["inter-tidal ants"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Systematics and Taxonomy of Tonatia saurophila Koopman & Williams, 1951 (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae)
The Stripe-headed Round-eared bat, Tonatia saurophila, includes three subspecies: Tonatia saurophila saurophila (known only from subfossil records in Jamaica), Tonatia saurophila bakeri (distributed from southeastern Mexico to northern Colombia, Venezuela west and north of the Cordillera de Mérida, and northwestern Ecuador), and Tonatia saurophila maresi (distributed in Venezuela east and south of the Cordillera de Mérida, the Guianas, Trinidad and Tobago, northeastern Brazil, and along the upper Amazon basin in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia). The last two subspecies are an attractive example to test predictions about the historical role of the Andes in mammalian diversification. Based on morphological descriptions, morphometric analyses, and phylogenetic reconstruction using the mitochondrial gene Cyt-b and the nuclear exon RAG2, this study evaluates the intraspecific relationships within Tonatia saurophila and the taxonomic status of the taxon. The three subspecies of T. saurophila are recognizable as full species: Tonatia bakeri, Tonatia maresi, and Tonatia saurophila. The latter is restricted to its type locality and possibly is extinct. Tonatia bakeri, in addition to being larger than T. maresi, is morphologically distinguishable by possessing an acute apex at the posterior edge of the skull, a well-developed clinoid process, and relatively robust mandibular condyles, and by lacking a diastema between the canine and the first lower premolar. The genetic distance between T. bakeri and T. maresi is 7.65%.

A taxonomic study on Epedanidae from Thailand including functional aspects of male genital morphology (Opiliones, Laniatores)
The South-East Asian opilionid family Epedanidae Sørensen, 1886 has one of its strongholds in Thailand from where a multitude of genera and species have been described but the epedanid fauna of the country is still poorly known. This paper records four species from this country, three of which are new: Euepedanus dashdamirovi sp. nov. (male and female), Plistobunus jaegeri sp. nov. (male and female), and Toccolus kuryi sp. nov. (male and female). Toccolus globitarsis Suzuki, 1969 was previously known only from the type locality in Thailand and is redescribed here. Functional aspects of epedanid penial morphology are highlighted.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Oenopia shirkuhensis sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from Iran mimicking Adalia bipunctata
Oenopia shirkuhensis sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) is described and illustrated. It was found in the mountains around Shirkooh mountain, Yazd province, and in the Kukhbenan Mountains, Kerman province, Iran. It is similar to a common ladybird Adalia bipunctata by the colour pattern on elytra. Congeneric species occurring in Iran, O. conglobata and partly O. oncina are illustrated for comparison, and an identification key is provided.
["ladybug"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Genetic analysis confirms the freshwater origin of the endemic Caspian sponges (Demospongiae, Spongillida, Metschnikowiidae)
The Caspian Sea is a unique inland brackish waterbody inhabited by highly endemic fauna. This fauna consists of species of both marine and freshwater origin. Some Caspian invertebrates cannot be confidently referred to as animals of either origin. The endemic monophyletic family of sponges, Metschnikowiidae, is among them. Although these sponges are considered as fresh water in the modern literature, no researcher has seen them alive for many years, and its status is actually unconfirmed. Here, we present the first photos of Metschnikowia tuberculata Grimm, 1877 and report evidence for its freshwater origin based on analysis of ITS1 and ITS2 sequences and partial sequences of CO1 gene. According to the genetic analysis, M. tuberculata belongs to the order Spongillida. We observed specimens of diverse appearance, but their spicule complement proved to be similar, and ITS sequences were identical. Thus, we conclude that they belong to the same species. The obtained results expand our knowledge about the dispersal ability of freshwater sponges.
["Caspian Sea"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Redescription of Pristidia cervicornuta (Araneae, Clubionidae), with a first description of the female
Pristidia cervicornuta Yu, Zhang & Chen, 2017 is redescribed based on new material from the type locality, Diaoluo Mountains of Hainan Island, China. The female is described and illustrated for the first time. In addition, this paper further illustrates the male, and provides a supplementary description.
["Diaoluo Mountains"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Comprehensive approaches reveal three cryptic species of genus Nidirana (Anura, Ranidae) from China
Three cryptic species, which were previously reported as Nidirana adenopleura, are revealed on the basis of comprehensive approaches. Nidirana guangdongensis Lyu, Wan, and YY Wang, sp. nov. is distributed in Nanling Mountains and southern Luoxiao Mountains, Nidirana mangveni Lyu, Qi, and YY Wang, sp. nov. is known from northern Zhejiang, and Nidirana xiangica Lyu and YY Wang, sp. nov. occurs in Xiangjiang River Basin, while the true Nidirana adenopleura is designated from Taiwan Island, northern Fujian, southern Zhejiang, and central Jiangxi. These three new species can be distinguished from all congeners by significant divergences in the mitochondrial 16S and CO1 genes, differences in advertisement calls, and the combination of multiple characteristics. This work indicates that the current records of Nidirana adenopleura should be of a species complex composed of multiple species and have clarified the true identity of N. adenopleura.
["bioacoustics"]

Morphological and molecular evidence support the intertidal barnacle Octomeris intermedia Nilsson-Cantell, 1921 (Thoracica, Chthamalidae) as a valid species in Indo-Pacific waters
Octomeris is a chthamalid intertidal barnacle with eight shell plates. There are currently two species of such barnacles: O. brunnea Darwin, 1854 (type locality in the Philippines), common in the Indo-Pacific region, and O. angulosa Sowerby, 1825, only recorded in South Africa. Octomeris intermedia Nilsson-Cantell, 1921, identified from the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar, was considered to be conspecific with O. brunnea by Hiro (1939) based on samples collected in Taiwan. The morphological differences in shell and opercular plates between O. brunnea and O. intermedia are believed to be intra-specific variations due to different degrees of shell erosion. In the present study, the genetic and morphological differentiations of Octomeris in the Indo-Pacific region were examined. This study found two molecular clades (with inter-specific differences) based on the divergence in the COI genes, and the species also have distinct geographical distributions. The Octomeris brunnea clade covers samples collected from the Philippines and Taiwan waters and the other clade, which we argue is O. intermedia, is distributed in Phuket and Krabi, Thailand and Langkawi, Malaysia. Phuket and Krabi are located approximately 300 km south of the Mergui Archipelago, the type locality of O. intermedia. The morphology of samples collected from Thailand fits the type description of O. intermedia in Nilsson-Cantell (1921). Our study concludes that O. intermedia is a valid species based on morphological and molecular evidence.
["Barnacles"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in Borneo (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Material collected between 2000 and 2014 on the island Borneo, including the Indonesian province of Kalimantan, the Malaysian province of Sabah and Brunei Darussalam, substantially increased our knowledge of Labiobaetis on this island. The total number of Labiobaetis species in Borneo increased to five, as only one species, L. borneoensis (Müller-Liebenau, 1984), was previously reported. Three new species were identified by morphology and partly by using genetic distance (COI, Kimura 2-parameter). They are described and illustrated based on their larvae (Labiobaetis bakerae sp. nov., L. penan sp. nov. and L. dayakorum sp. nov.); in one case, the imago is described as well. New reports of L. borneoensis are presented and the imago of this species is described for the first time. Labiobaetis moriharai (Müller-Liebenau, 1984), originally described from mainland Malaysia (Province Selangor), is reported from Borneo for the first time. The interspecific K2P distances in Borneo are between 19% and 25%, the intraspecific distances are usually between 0% and 1%. The total number of Labiobaetis species worldwide is augmented to 126.
["Brunei"]

Thirty-one new species of the spider genus Leclercera from Southeast Asia (Araneae, Psilodercidae)
Thirty-one new species of the genus Leclercera Deeleman-Reinhold, 1995 from China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, and Thailand are described: L. mianqiu sp. nov. (♂♀), L. thamsangensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. yandou sp. nov. (♂♀), L. thamkaewensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. xiangbabang sp. nov. (♂♀), L. jianzuiyu sp. nov. (♂♀), L. yamaensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. banensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. dumuzhou sp. nov. (♀), L. suwanensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. maochong sp. nov. (♀), L. shanzi sp. nov. (♀), L. duandai sp. nov. (♂♀), L. hponensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. lizi sp. nov. (♂), L. xiaodai sp. nov. (♀), L. yanjing sp. nov. (♀), L. ekteenensis sp. nov. (♂), L. zhamensis sp. nov. (♂), L. sanjiao sp. nov. (♀), L. selasihensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. paiensis sp. nov. (♀), L. yuanzhui sp. nov. (♀), L. zanggaensis sp. nov. (♀), L. aniensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. renqinensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. shergylaensis sp. nov. (♂♀), L. pulongensis sp. nov. (♂), L. tudao sp. nov. (♂♀), L. duibaensis sp. nov. (♂), and L. jiazhongensis sp. nov. (♂♀). Types are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing.
["Chelicerae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of Glyptapanteles Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) within Macrobrochis gigas (Lepidoptera, Arctiidae, Lithosiidae) in Fujian, China
The south-east coastal area of Fujian, China, belongs to the Oriental Realm, and is characterized by a high insect species richness. In this work, a new species of Hymenopteran parasitoid, Glyptapanteles gigas Liang & Song, sp. nov. found in Jinjiang within hosts of caterpillars Macrobrochis gigas (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae), is described and illustrated, with differences from similar species. Additionally, we presumed that both parasitoid and host species play very important role in the coevolution and tritrophic interaction between plants, phytophagous insects, and their parasitoids, because these insects probably broke the sporangia and made contributions to their colonization, or some spores were spread for long distances by adult moths after their emergence, or some parasitoids were attracted by the eggs and larvae of these caterpillars, which was also thought to be helpful to spread of spores.
["Glyptapanteles"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

Ancyronyx clisteri , a new spider riffle beetle species from Borneo, redescription of A. sarawacensis Jäch including a description of the larva and new distribution data for A. procerus Jäch using DNA barcodes (Coleoptera, Elmidae)
Ancyronyx clisteri sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Elmidae) a new spider riffle beetle discovered from northern Borneo (Brunei; Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysia) and the larva of Ancyronyx sarawacensis Jäch are described. Illustrations of the habitus and diagnostic characters of the new species and the similar and highly variable A. sarawacensis are presented. Differences to closely related species, based on DNA barcodes and morphological characters, are discussed. Association of the larva and the imago of A. sarawacensis, and the occurrence of Ancyronyx procerus Jäch in Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah are confirmed by using COI mtDNA sequences.
["Brunei"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Revision of the Theopea genus group (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae), part III: Descriptions of two new genera and nine new species
This publication treats species within Theopea and closely allied genera that were not covered in the previous two revisions. Three species of Theopea Baly, 1864 are treated herein, with T. bicolor Kimoto, 1989 and T. mouhoti Baly, 1864 redescribed, and T. bicoloroides sp. nov. described. A new genus that we consider closely related to Theopea, Pseudotheopea gen. nov., is described. This new genus can be recognized with the presence of reticulate microsculpture on the vertex of the head and pronotum and presence of an apical spine on each metatibia. The following species are transferred to Pseudotheopea as new combinations: Theopea aeneipennis Gressitt & Kimoto, 1963, T. azurea Gressitt & Kimoto, 1963, T. clypealis Medvedev, 2015, T. nigrita Medvedev, 2007, T. smaragdina Gressitt & Kimoto, 1963, T. similis Kimoto, 1989, and T. subviridis Medvedev, 2012. Theopea subviridis Medvedev, 2012 is regarded as new synonym of Pseudotheopea similis (Kimoto, 1989). In addition, six new species of Pseudotheopea are described: P. boreri sp. nov. from India, P. gressitti sp. nov. from Philippines, P. hsingtzungi sp. nov. from Laos, P. kimotoi sp. nov. from Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, P. leehsuehae sp. nov. from Laos, and P. sufangae sp. nov. from Taiwan. A second new genus regarded as closely related to Pseudotheopea, Borneotheopea gen. nov., can be recognized by possessing uniform antennae in both sexes and lacking an apical spine on each metatibia. Two new species of Borneotheopea are described from Borneo: B. jakli sp. nov. and B. kalimantanensis sp. nov.
["Borneotheopea"]

Corrigendum: A new genus and species of Staphylininae rove beetle from the Peruvian Amazon (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae). https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.904.48592
In a recent paper (Jenkins Shaw et al. 2020) we stated that the holotype of Amazonothops aslaki would be deposited in the Natural History Museum of Denmark (NHMD). According to the conditions of the permit RDG 0328-2017-SERFOR-DGGSPFFS/RDG 356-2017-SERFOR-DGGSPFFS, the holotype and one paratype (SEM coated male with same data as holotype but from 4°53.210'S, 73°38.921'W, 7–10.IX.2017, rainforest, FIT near creek (PER 17-22l ) of Amazonothops aslaki described in Jenkins Shaw et al. (2020) were sent for the permanent deposition to the Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos in Peru (MHN-UNMSM).
["Corrigendum"]

The diversity of the Baikal lineage of Hydra oligactis Pallas, 1766: molecular and morphological evidence
In this paper, molecular analyses of Baikal hydras from the ‘oligactis group’, based on COI and ITS1–5.8S–ITS2, and morphological analysis of their holotrichous isorhizas, were performed. Low genetic diversity and shared haplotypes were found between Hydra oligactis Pallas, 1766 and Hydra baikalensis Swarczewsky, 1923 specimens, which is evidence of the mixing of these lineages. Genetic distances among all Baikal hydras (0.006) were less than the interspecific distances of other hydras. The size of hydras and proportions of their holotrichous isorhizas varied depending on microhabitat and environmental conditions. Our combined molecular and morphological approach proves that H. baikalensis is synonymous with H. oligactis
["taxonomy"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine and environmental studies", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

A new genus of the tribe Sarimini (Fulgoromorpha, Issidae) from the Guangxi Province of China
A new genus with a new species Eusarimissus hezhouensis gen. nov. et sp. nov. from Guangxi Province of China are described in the tribe Sarimini of the family Issidae. Molecular sequences of 18S, 28S and COXI genes are provided for the new taxon. Phylogenetic analysis places this taxon sister to a previously sequenced but not yet described Sarimini genus ‘Eusarima sp. 4’. Taxonomic notes are provided for the genus Eusarima Yang, 1994. The species Eusarima (Nepalius) iranica Gnezdilov & Mozaffarian, 2011 is transferred to the genus Sarima Melichar 1903.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A new species of Ithome Chambers (Lepidoptera, Cosmopterigidae, Chrysopeleiinae) from the Atacama Desert revealed by morphology and DNA barcodes
Morphology and DNA barcode sequences were used to assess the taxonomic status of a micro-moth of the genus Ithome Chambers, 1875 (Lepidoptera, Cosmopterigidae, Chrysopeleiinae), whose larvae feed on inflorescences of Prosopis tamarugo Phil. (Fabaceae), a tree native to the Pampa del Tamarugal, Atacama Desert, northern Chile. As a result, Ithome tamarugensis Vargas, sp. nov. is described and illustrated. Its genitalia are remarkably similar to those of Ithome tiaynai Vargas, 2004 from coastal valleys of the Atacama Desert. However, the two species can be recognized by the shape of the phallus in males and the shape of the antrum and ductus bursae in females. The genetic distance between DNA barcodes of I. tamarugensis and I. tiaynai was 3.0–3.3% (K2P), and a maximum likelihood analysis indicated that they are in reciprocally monophyletic clusters, providing additional support for the heterospecific status suggested by morphology.
["Florivorous larvae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Four new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Qiongthela from Hainan Island, China (Mesothelae, Liphistiidae)
The primitively segmented spider genus Qiongthela Xu & Kuntner, 2015 consists of seven species that are distributed in Hainan Island, China and southern Vietnam. Of the seven species, five are known from Hainan Island. In this study, four more Qiongthela species collected from Hainan Island are diagnosed and described as new to science based on morphological characters: Q. baoting sp. nov. (♂♀), Q. qiongzhong sp. nov. (♂♀), Q. sanya sp. nov. (♂♀), Q. yinggezui sp. nov. (♂♀). To facilitate future identification, the GenBank accession codes of the DNA barcode gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), for all the type specimens are also provided.
["Abdominal tergites"]

Asianopis gen. nov., a new genus of the spider family Deinopidae from Asia
A new genus of the spider family Deinopidae C.L. Koch, 1850 is described from Asia: Asianopis Lin & Li gen. nov., with A. zhuanghaoyuni Lin & Li sp. nov. as the type species. The new genus is divided into two species groups, of which the liukuensis-group includes two species: A. dumogae (Merian, 1911) sp. reval. comb. nov. (♀) and A. liukuensis (Yin, Griswold & Yan, 2002) comb. nov. (♂♀); and the zhuanghaoyuni-group comprises five species: A. celebensis (Merian, 1911) comb. nov. (♂), A. konplong (Logunov, 2018) comb. nov. (♂), A. wangi Lin & Li sp. nov. (♂♀), A. wuchaoi Lin & Li sp. nov. (♂♀), and A. zhuanghaoyuni Lin & Li sp. nov. All previously described species are transferred from Deinopis MacLeay, 1839. Deinopis scrubjunglei Caleb & Mathai, 2014 is treated as a junior synonym of Asianopis liukuensis comb. nov.
["New combination"]

Phyllodiaptomus (Phyllodiaptomus) roietensis, a new diaptomid copepod (Copepoda, Calanoida) from temporary waters in Thailand and Cambodia, with a key to the species
Phyllodiaptomus (Phyllodiaptomus) roietensis sp. nov. was collected from temporary water bodies in Roi Et and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces in northeastern Thailand and Kampong Thom Province in central Cambodia. The new species is closely related to Phyllodiaptomus (P.) surinensis Sanoamuang & Yindee, 2001 in that it shares common morphological characters in the males: urosomites 2–3, P5 intercoxal sclerite, right P5 Exp-2, and left P5 Exp. Minor differences on the right antennule, right caudal ramus, P5 basis and Enp exist. The females differ in their Pdg 5, genital double-somite, and P5. An updated key to the species of the genus Phyllodiaptomus Kiefer, 1936 is provided.
["Diaptomidae"]
["Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

New distribution records of subterranean crustaceans from cenotes in Yucatan (Mexico)
New records of 14 stygobiont crustacean species pertaining to six Malacostraca orders from 32 cenotes are presented, with their associated caves of the state of Yucatan, Mexico, together with an individual account for each species. Species composition of most of the investigated cenotes is examined for the first time. A thermosbaenacean and two amphipod species were not formally recorded to the cenote ecosystems of the state of Yucatan prior to our research. Distribution data of a cirolanid isopod previously known only from its type locality is also provided. Barcodes of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I for the reported peracarid species previously lacking this information have been included in present study as tools for species identification and a baseline of further molecular genetic analyses.
["anchialine ecosystems"]

New data on species diversity of Annelida (Oligochaeta, Hirudinea) in the Kharbey lakes system, Bolshezemelskaya tundra (Russia)
One of the features of the tundra zone is the diversity of freshwater bodies, where, among benthic invertebrates, representatives of Annelida are the most significant component in terms of ecological and species diversity. The oligochaete and leech faunas have previously been studied in two of the three largest lake ecosystems of the Bolshezemelskaya tundra (the Vashutkiny Lakes system, Lake Ambarty and some other lakes in the Korotaikha River basin). This article provides current data on annelid fauna from the third lake ecosystem in the region, Kharbey Lakes and adjacent water bodies. The annelid fauna includes 68 species, including 51 oligochaete species, and 17 species of leeches. For each species, we give information on currently recognised classification, taxonomic synonymy, geographical distribution, findings of the species within the Russian tundra, and brief ecological characteristics.
["Annelid biodiversity"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

X-ray microcomputed tomography applied to the taxonomic study of rare material: redescriptions of seven of Schirch’s Brazilian species of land planarians (Geoplanidae, Platyhelminthes)
In 2016, the type-material of ten of the 15 Brazilian land planarians (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Geoplanidae) described by Schirch (1929) was discovered deposited in the Museu Nacional do Rio de Janeiro (MNRJ). Schirch only described the external morphology of these species, all originally placed in the genus Geoplana. By the 1930s and 1950s Geoplana itatiayana, G. plana, and G. rezendei underwent taxonomic revision based on the study of non-type specimens. The remaining 12 species also underwent a taxonomic revision but only based on the literature. Current names of these species are Geoplana goettei, Pseudogeoplana arpi, Ps. blaseri, Ps. bonita, Ps. bresslaui, Ps. cardosi, Ps. doederleini, Ps. lumbricoides, Ps. obscura, Ps. riedeli, Ps. theresopolitana, and Ps. wetzeli. The species Geoplana maximiliani sensu Schirch (1929) was renamed as Ps. schirchi Ogren & Kawakatsu, 1990. The present study reports a taxonomic revision of seven of Schirch’s species using type material, namely Obama itatiayana, Pasipha plana, Pseudogeoplana arpi, Ps. bresslaui, Ps. doederleini, Ps. schirchi and Ps. wetzeli. Additional specimens of some of these species were also examined. Morphological data from histological preparations and from virtual sections were obtained through a non-destructive technique of X-ray computed microtomography (µCT). This approach resulted in the preservation of the entire body of at least one type-specimen of each species, and the holotype of Ps. bresslaui. Conspecificity of O. itatiayana and P. plana was confirmed, as previously reported in the literature. It is also proposed that Ps. bresslaui belongs to the genus Paraba, while the other species should remain in Pseudogeoplana, since type-specimens are either immature, poorly preserved or simply lost.
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Taxonomy of the genus Epsilon from China, with a new species and an updated key to the Oriental species (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae)
A new species of potter wasps, Epsilon similimanasicum sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Zhejiang, China. The holotype specimen of Epsilon subfistulosum (Wickwar, 1908) was examined and based on the characters of the type specimen, it is transferred from the genus Epsilon de Saussure to the genus Pararrhynchium de Saussure, as Pararrhynchium subfistulosum comb. nov. In addition, an updated key to the Oriental species of Epsilon is provided.
["Epsilon dyscherum"]

Integrative taxonomy of the genus Dudgeodes Sartori, 2008 (Insecta, Ephemeroptera, Teloganodidae) from the Philippines with description of new species and supplementary descriptions of Southeast Asian species
COI sequences were used as an initial clustering method to delimit putative species of the genus Dudgeodes in the Philippines. An overview of the diagnostic characters of Philippine species and characters with high intraspecific variability are given. Six new species of Dudgeodes are described and illustrated: D. bauernfeindi Garces & Sartori, sp. nov., D. freitagi Garces & Sartori, sp. nov., D. luntian Garces & Sartori, sp. nov., D. pangantihoni Garces & Sartori, sp. nov., D. tabang Garces & Sartori, sp. nov., and D. vonrinteleni Garces & Sartori, sp. nov., all known from the nymphal stage. Supplementary descriptions are provided for D. pescadori Sartori, 2008, D. hutanis Sartori, 2008, D. stephani Sartori, 2008, D. ulmeri Sartori, 2008, and D. celebensis Sartori, 2008. A key to the nymphs of Philippine Dudgeodes species is proposed.
["Ephemerelloidea"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Eocuma orbiculatum sp. nov. (Crustacea, Cumacea, Bodotriidae) from Korean waters
A new species of Cumacea belonging to the genus Eocuma Marcusen was collected from the South Sea of Korea. This new species resembles E. amakusense Gamô, E. hilgendorfi Marcusen, and E. latum Calman in having a pair of well-developed dorso-lateral carinae on the flat carapace and similar setae pattern on the telson. The new species, however, is easily distinguished from its congeners by the pattern of dorso-lateral carina and lacking lateral horns on the carapace. The adult male of this new species is fully described. A key to the Korean Eocuma species is also provided.
["Bodotriidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Revision of the Merodon serrulatus group (Diptera, Syrphidae)
The phytophagous hoverfly genus Merodon Meigen, 1803 (Diptera, Syrphidae), which comprises more than 160 species distributed in Palaearctic and Afrotropical regions, can be differentiated into multiple groups of species that harbor high levels of hidden diversity. In this work, the serrulatus species group of Merodon is revised, providing an illustrated key to species, a detailed discussion on the taxonomic characters and a morphological diagnosis, including also the first data about the preimaginal morphology of this species group. The study includes characteristics of the 13 species of the M. serrulatus group, along with the available distributional data. Moreover, descriptions are provided for seven new species, namely M. defectus Vujić, Likov & Radenković sp. nov., M. disjunctus Vujić, Likov & Radenković sp. nov., M. medium Vujić, Likov & Radenković sp. nov., M. nigrocapillatus Vujić, Likov & Radenković sp. nov., M. nigropunctum Vujić, Likov & Radenković sp. nov., M. opacus Vujić, Likov & Radenković sp. nov., and M. trianguloculus Vujić, Likov & Radenković sp. nov. In addition, the taxa M. serrulatus (Wiedemann in Meigen, 1822), M. bequaerti Hurkmans, 1993, M. hirsutus Sack, 1913, M. kawamurae Matsumura, 1916, M. sacki (Paramonov, 1936) and M. sophron Hurkmans, 1993 are redefined and redescribed. Following a detailed study of the type material sourced from different entomological collections, the status of all available taxa related to M. serrulatus is revised and a new synonymy is proposed: M. tener Sack, 1913 syn. nov. (junior synonym of M. serrulatus). The identity of M. trizonus (Szilády, 1940) could not be assessed as the type specimens are lost. Thus, the name M. trizonus is considered as nomen dubium. The monophyly and composition of this species group are assessed through Maximum Parsimony and Maximum Likelihood analyses of the mitochondrial COI and nuclear 28S rRNA gene sequences.

Morphology lies: a case-in-point with a new non-biting midge species from Oriental China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Morphological traits are generally indicative of specific taxa, and particularly function as keys in taxonomy and species delimitation. In this study, a non-biting midge species with an Einfeldia-like superior volsella makes it hard to accurately determined based on its morphological characteristics. Molecular genes of two ribosomal genes and three protein-encoding genes were compiled to construct a related genera phylogeny and to address the taxonomic issues. Phylogenetic inference clearly supports the undetermined species as belonging to Kiefferulus. Therefore, a new species classified in the genus Kiefferulus is described and figured as an adult male from Oriental China. The species could be easily distinguished from other species in having an Einfeldia-like superior volsella and a triangular tergite IX.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First record on the biology of Sarcophaga (Bulbostyla) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae)
A first breeding record for Sarcophaga (Bulbostyla) cadyi Giroux & Wheeler on the American giant millipede Narceus americanus (de Beauvois) (Spirobolida, Spirobolidae) is reported. Digital photographs of the terminalia of S. (B.) cadyi and of Sarcophaga (Bulbostyla) yorkii Parker are also provided.
["feeding behaviour"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

On eight species of jumping spiders from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
Seven new species of jumping spiders collected from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, China are diagnosed and described: Cytaea tongi sp. nov. (♂♀), Dexippus pengi sp. nov. (♂♀), Euophrys subwanyan sp. nov. (♂♀), Gelotia liuae sp. nov. (♂♀), Irura lvshilinensis sp. nov. (♂♀), Rhene menglunensis sp. nov. (♂♀), and Siler zhangae sp. nov. (♂). The female of Gelotia zhengi Cao & Li, 2016 is described for the first time.

The larva of Drusus dudor Oláh, 2017, including an updated key to larval Drusinae Banks, 1916 (Insecta, Trichoptera, Limnephilidae)
The caddisfly Drusus dudor Oláh, 2017 (Limephilidae: Drusinae) was described from the Northwestern Italian Alps. We provide a detailed description of the larva, based on material from the Italian Province of Piemonte. Information on the morphology of the 5th larval instar is given, and the most important diagnostic features are illustrated. The larva is included in an updated key to larval Drusinae where D. dudor keys together with Drusus aprutiensis Moretti, 1981, D. camerinus Moretti, 1981, D. croaticus Marinkovic-Gospodnetic, 1971, D. mixtus (Pictet, 1834), and D. nigrescens Meyer-Duer, 1875. The species can be reliably separated by the morphology of the pronotum, the shape of the metanotal sclerites, and by morphological details of abdominal sternum I.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Sporades jaechi sp. nov. with comments on classification of the New Caledonian genus Sporades Fauvel (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechini, Trechodina)
Sporades jaechi sp. nov. from Poum, New Caledonia is newly described and shown to be a member of the monophyletic Sporades subgenus Perileptosporades Deuve, 2010. Sporades millei Giachino and S. schuhi Donabauer are newly recognized as members of the subgenus Perileptosporades, and a key to its species is provided. Although Perileptosporades can be defined monophyletically relative to the rest of the genus, genitalic variation among species assigned to the nominate subgenus Sporades Fauvel, 1882 leave monophyly of that taxon ambiguously supported. Several morphological characters of long- standing use have been proposed to define the mutual monophyly of Sporades s. l. and its putative adelphotaxon, Trechodes Blackburn, 1901. Increasing knowledge concerning the diversity of male genitalic characters among Sporades spp. lends support to a recently proposed molecular phylogenetic hypothesis positing that Sporades evolved from within Trechodes. The consequences of the alternate phylogenetic hypotheses on their attendant nomenclature are discussed. An additional locality record for S. sexpunctatus Fauvel expands the known distribution of this species to include most of Grande Terre, New Caledonia.
["aedeagus"]

The genus Amegilla (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Anthophorini) in Australia: a revision of the subgenus Asaropoda
The species in the subgenus Amegilla (Asaropoda) are revised. Species delineation was decided based on diagnostic morphological characters as well as an incomplete phylogeny based on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 sequence data. Strong support was obtained for separating the Australian species of Amegilla into the three subgenera previously proposed on the basis of morphology. The subgenus Asaropoda was found to comprise 21 species, including ten new species: A. albiclypeata Leijs, sp. nov., A. aurantia Leijs, sp. nov., A. batleyi Leijs, sp. nov., A. crenata Leijs, sp. nov., A. griseocincta Leijs, sp. nov., A. incognita Leijs, sp. nov., A. nitidiventris Leijs, sp. nov., A. scoparia Leijs, sp. nov., A. xylocopoides Leijs, sp. nov., and A. youngi Leijs, sp. nov. The subspecies A. preissi frogatti is raised to species level, and 16 new synonymies are proposed. Keys to the species of both sexes and descriptions or redescriptions are provided. Distribution maps, data on flower visitation and phenology are given.
["teddy bear bee"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Host identification for the deep-sea snail genus Haliella with description of a new species (Caenogastropoda, Eulimidae)
A new parasitic species of eulimid gastropod, Haliella seisuimaruae sp. nov., is described from bathyal (728–978 m) waters off the Pacific coasts of Japan. It shows the closest resemblance to the type species H. stenostoma from the North Atlantic and Barents Sea in having a tall shell with an almost straight outer lip, but differs in having a junction of the parietal wall and columellar lip at 38% of the aperture height from the suture (33% in H. stenostoma), a slightly wider aperture and a more curved and extended columellar lip. The holotype of H. seisuimaruae sp. nov. was found attached to an irregular sea urchin, Brissopsis sp. cf. luzonica (Spatangoida: Brissidae). This represents the first direct observation of parasitic ecology and echinoderm host for the genus Haliella. A new replacement name, Eulima tsushimensis nom. nov., is proposed here for Eulima stenostoma A. Adams, 1861, which is preoccupied by Eulima stenostoma Jeffreys, 1858 (type of Haliella).
["Brissopsis"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Twenty-six new species of Hoploscopa (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) from South-East Asia revealed by morphology and DNA barcoding
Hoploscopa Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is a fern-feeding genus found in montane areas of South-East Asia and Melanesia, eastwards up to the Samoan Islands. It includes sixteen described species, with at least 70 further undescribed species known from scientific collections. An iterative approach including morphological and molecular characters was used in order to explore the diversity of Hoploscopa. The hitherto described species are revised, and descriptions authored by T. Léger and M. Nuss are provided for an additional 26 new species: H. agtuuganonensis sp. nov., H. albipuncta sp. nov., H. albomaculata sp. nov., H. anacantha sp. nov., H. boleta sp. nov., H. cynodonta sp. nov., H. danaoensis sp. nov., H. gombongi sp. nov., H. gracilis sp. nov., H. ignitamaculae sp. nov., H. isarogensis sp. nov., H. jubata sp. nov., H. kelama sp. nov., H. kinabaluensis sp. nov., H. mallyi sp. nov., H. marijoweissae sp. nov., H. matheae sp. nov., H. niveofascia sp. nov., H. pangrangoensis sp. nov., H. parvimacula sp. nov., H. pseudometacrossa sp. nov., H. sepanggi sp. nov., H. sumatrensis sp. nov., H. titika sp. nov., H. tonsepi sp. nov., H. ypsilon sp. nov. Using a protocol specific for the amplification of DNA from old museum specimens, we recovered 101 COI barcodes for all but one of the newly described species, with 76 being barcode compliant (>487 bp). Species delimitation analyses suggest cryptic diversity, with six cases reflecting allopatric divergence, and two further cases found in sympatry.
["Indo-malayan"]

Review and new species of Tiferonia Darlington, 1962 (Carabidae, Abacetini)
Darlington described Tiferonia based on T. parva from New Guinea. In this review, Tiferonia leytensis sp. nov. is described from Leyte Island, Philippines, Tiferonia schoutedeni (Straneo, 1943) comb. nov. is transferred from Melanchrous Andrewes, and inclusion of Tiferonia brunnea (Jedlička, 1935) in the genus is confirmed. Characteristics of Tiferonia and genera that have been proposed as closely related to Tiferonia are discussed and a unique character, the post-ocular sulcus, shared among species of Tiferonia and Holconotus is proposed as a synapomorphy for these two genera. A key to identify adults of the four species of Tiferonia is provided.
["New Guinea"]

A new species of Eumerus (Diptera, Syrphidae) from the Kingdom of Bhutan, the easternmost representative of the bactrianus subgroup
A new species of Eumerus, Eumerus druk Smit sp. nov., is described from Bhutan. This species belongs to the bactrianus subgroup of the strigatus species group. Seven species are currently known within this subgroup: four European, one of which is also found in the Near East, and three more only known from Tajikistan. The new species extends this disjunct distribution to the east by at least 2,000 km, stretching far beyond the reported Turano-Mediterranean region and into the Himalayas. A diagnosis and a key to all Central and Eastern Palaearctic species of the Eumerus bactrianus subgroup are provided.
["Central Palaearctic"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

A novel leaf-rolling chironomid, Eukiefferiella endobryonia sp. nov. (Diptera, Chironomidae, Orthocladiinae), highlights the diversity of underwater chironomid tube structures
The non-biting midges, Chironomidae (Diptera), are dominant components of most freshwater ecosystems. Many chironomids construct tubes or cases as larvae out of various materials bound together with silk. The structures of tubes show a wide range of variation, and some are morphologically comparable to those of caddisflies. Herein a new species is described, Eukiefferiella endobryonia sp. nov., which exhibits a very unusual behavior in which it constructs tubes from aquatic mosses. This species’ fourth-instar larvae construct their cases exclusively from the leaves of Fontinalis mosses (Hypnales: Fontinalaceae) and exhibit a stereotyped behavior in which they remain attached to the apical shoot of the moss stem. The larvae then pupate within the case. The case of E. endobryonia sp. nov. represents one of only a few examples of chironomid tubes made exclusively out of plants. Based on the species delimitation analyses using the partial COI sequences, together with some morphological and behavioral characteristics, this species is hypothesized to be a member of devonica group, and especially may have a close affinity to E. dittmari (Lehman). A provisional typology for the diversity of chironomid tube structures is provided, with a summary of different tube structures, which can be used for future research.
["bryophytivore"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

On Araniella and Neoscona (Araneae, Araneidae) of the Caucasus, Middle East and Central Asia
New taxonomic data for species belonging to Araniella Chamberlin & Ivie, 1942 and Neoscona Simon, 1864 occurring in the Caucasus, Middle East and Central Asia are provided. Three species are described as new to science: A. mithra sp. nov. (♂♀, northwestern, central and southwestern Iran), A. villanii sp. nov. (♂♀, southwestern Iran, eastern Kazakhstan and northern India) and N. isatis sp. nov. (♂♀, central Iran). Neoscona spasskyi (Brignoli, 1983) comb. nov., stat. res. is removed from the synonymy of N. tedgenica (Bakhvalov, 1978), redescribed and recorded from Iran and Turkmenistan for the first time. New combinations are established for this species, as well as for Araniella nigromaculata (Schenkel, 1963) comb. nov. (♀, north-central China) (both ex. Araneus). Two new synonymies are proposed: Araniella tbilisiensis Mcheidze, 1997 syn. nov. is synonymized with A. opisthographa (Kulczyński, 1905), and Neoscona sodom Levy, 1998 syn. nov. is synonymized with N. theisi (Walckenaer, 1841); the latter is recorded from Iran, Georgia, and Russia (Northern Caucasus) for the first time.

Leucosolenia qingdaoensis sp. nov. (Porifera, Calcarea, Calcaronea, Leucosolenida, Leucosoleniidae), a new species from China
A new species of Leucosoleniidae, Leucosolenia qingdaoensis sp. nov., is described. This new species was collected in a scallop-breeding pond from the Yellow Sea and preserved in 75% ethanol. This sponge consists of a dense reticulation of ascon tubes, with the surface minutely hispid and the consistency soft and fragile. Spiculation of the new species consists of diactines, which are smooth, straight or sometimes slightly curved, triactines of two types, and tetractines with short and curved apical actines; spiculation also slightly overlaps and is somewhat irregularly assembled. Together these form a thin layer of skeleton, with a small number of cells, which results in a transparent, white sponge. As a typical asconoid feature, all internal cavities of the sponge are lined with choanocytes, and there is no fully developed inhalant system. Comparisons with other Leucosolenia reported from the Pacific Ocean are also made.
["Sponge"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new species of Baikal endemic sponges (Porifera, Demospongiae, Spongillida, Lubomirskiidae)
This paper reports on a new species of the Baikal endemic sponge (fam. Lubomirskiidae) Swartschewskia khanaevi sp. nov. The description of this species is based on morphological and molecular data (ITS and mitochondrial IGRs). Morphologically, S. khanaevi sp. nov. differs from S. papyracea by loose tracts arranged in an irregular network as well as the presence on strongyles of compound spines looking like tubercles densely ornamented with simple spines. Moreover, specimens of S. khanaevi sp. nov. show a peculiar structure of the aquiferous system at the body surface that may be an adaptive trait for environmental conditions. Phylogenetic analysis has revealed that S. khanaevi sp. nov. forms a well-supported (0.99) monophyletic clade with S. papyracea and is allocated as its sister taxa.
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Myxozoan Parasites in Aquatic Species", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Pheidole Westwood, 1839 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) of Madagascar – an introduction and a taxonomic revision of eleven species groups
The present study represents an introduction to the revision of Pheidole Westwood, 1839 from Madagascar. Sixteen species groups are established, of which eleven are revised below, and illustrated identification keys to species groups and species of groups revised in this monograph are presented. Two species are raised to species level: Pheidole petax Forel, 1895 stat. nov., and P. scabrata Forel, 1895 stat. nov. We also redescribe worker castes and designate lectotypes for P. annemariae Forel, 1918, P. nemoralis Forel, 1892, P. petax Forel, 1895, P. ensifera Forel, 1897, P. longispinosa Forel, 1891, and P. scabrata Forel, 1895. The following 46 new species are described: Pheidole aelloea sp. nov., P. ala sp. nov., P. andapa sp. nov., P. ankerana sp. nov., P. avaratra sp. nov., P. bemarahaensis sp. nov., P. bemarivoensis sp. nov., P. binara sp. nov., P. boribora sp. nov., P. brevipilosa sp. nov., P. curvistriata sp. nov., P. diakritos sp. nov., P. ehazoara sp. nov., P. ferruginea sp. nov., P. fisaka sp. nov., P. fitarata sp. nov., P. glabra sp. nov., P. goavana sp. nov., P. lamperos sp. nov., P. longipilosa sp. nov., P. lutea sp. nov., P. madinika sp. nov., P. mahaboensis sp. nov., P. maizina sp. nov., P. makaensis sp. nov., P. makirovana sp. nov., P. manantenensis sp. nov., P. mantadia sp. nov., P. marieannae sp. nov., P. masoala sp. nov., P. mavesatra sp. nov., P. miramila sp. nov., P. moramanaensis sp. nov., P. navoatrensis sp. nov., P. ocypodea sp. nov., P. parviocula sp. nov., P. podargea sp. nov., P. praegrandis sp. nov., P. ranohirensis sp. nov., P. rugocephala sp. nov., P. rugofitarata sp. nov., P. typhlos sp. nov., P. vatovavensis sp. nov., P. voasara sp. nov., P. vohemarensis sp. nov., and P. zavamanira sp. nov. At present, there are 69 valid species and subspecies of Pheidole known from Madagascar, but this number is expected to increase significantly with upcoming taxonomic revisions of the species groups not revised in this study.
["endemic species"]

A new species of the Music frog Nidirana (Anura, Ranidae) from Guizhou Province, China
The Music frog genus Nidirana is widely distributed in East and South Asia. Here, a new species of the genus is described from southwestern China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI gene sequences supported the new species as a clade closely related to N. leishanensis, N. hainanensis, N. chapaensis, N. daunchina, and N. yaoica. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: body of medium size (SVL 41.2–43.5 mm in males and 44.7 mm in female); lateroventral groove only present on toes; relative finger lengths: II < IV < I < III; three metatarsal tubercles on palm; heels overlapping when hindlimbs flexed at right angles to axis of body; tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level of eye when leg stretched forward; a pair of subgular internal vocal sacs at corners of throat in male; nuptial pad present on the inner side of base of fingers I in breeding male; tadpole labial tooth row formula with 1:1+1/1+1:2; in males, the advertisement call contains two kinds of notes and one call contains 2–6 repeated regular notes.
["Call"]

A new species of Boholina (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida) and a first record for stygobiotic calanoid fauna from a cave in Thailand
A new species of Calanoida belonging to the genus Boholina Fosshagen & Iliffe, 1989 was found in a freshwater pool within a cave of the Satun province, South Thailand. It is the first record of the genus and of a stygobiotic representative of calanoid fauna in this country. The new species is most similar to B. crassicephala Fosshagen & Iliffe, 1989, based on position of genital pores, structures of P4 and P5 in both sexes, relative length of subapical spine vestige on the male right P5, and shape of the male left P5 endopods. However, this new species is distinguished from its known congeners by: (1) relatively longer distal outer spines on the male right P5 exopods, (2) smaller endopods of the male left P5 and (3) elongated apical spines on the distal exopodal segment of the female P4 and P5. Furthermore, the distinctive characteristic of the Thai Boholina is the presence of inner minute seta on the distal segment of the male right P5 exopod. Detailed descriptions of the new species and a key to all six known species of the genus Boholina is provided.
["anchialine cave"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new genus and species of Staphylininae rove beetle from the Peruvian Amazon (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
A new monotypic genus of Staphylininae Latreille, 1802 tribe incertae sedis is proposed based on Amazonothops aslaki gen. et sp. nov. from the Peruvian Amazon. Descriptions and illustrations of the new genus and species are provided. Its systematic placement and phylogenetic significance are discussed.
["Hyptiomini"]

Molecular evidences confirm the taxonomic separation of two sympatric congeneric species (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Neritidae, Neritina)
A reliable taxonomy, together with more accurate knowledge of the geographical distribution of species, is a fundamental element for the study of biodiversity. Multiple studies on the gastropod family Neritidae record three species of the genus Neritina in the Brazilian Province: Neritina zebra (Bruguière, 1792), Neritina virginea (Linnaeus, 1758), and Neritina meleagris Lamarck, 1822. While N. zebra has a well-established taxonomic status and geographical distribution, the same cannot be said regarding its congeners. A widely cited reference for the group in Brazil considers N. meleagris a junior synonym of N. virginea. Using a molecular approach (phylogenetic, species delimitation, and statistical parsimony network analyses), based on two mitochondrial markers (COI and 16S), this study investigated if N. virginea and N. meleagris are distinct species. The molecular results confirmed the existence of two strongly supported distinct taxonomic entities in the Brazilian Province, which is consistent with the morphological descriptions previously proposed for N. virginea and N. meleagris. These species occur in sympatry in the intertidal sandstone formations of Northeastern Brazil. Despite the great variation in the colour patterns of the shells, the present study reinforced previous observations that allowed the differentiation of these two species based on these patterns. It also emphasized the importance of the separation of these two clades in future studies, especially those conducted in the Brazilian Province, since these species may cohabit.
["Brazilian Province"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

The world woodlouse flies (Diptera, Rhinophoridae)
The world Rhinophoridae are catalogued, recognising 33 genera and 177 species. Nomenclatural information is provided for all genus-group and species-group names, including lists of synonyms and name-bearing type data. Species distributions are recorded by country. A key to the world genera is presented. Four new genera are erected to accommodate five new species, which do not fit within any of the current generic concepts in Rhinophoridae, according to the results of a morphology-based phylogenetic analysis: Marshallicona Cerretti & Pape with type species Marshallicona quitu Cerretti & Pape, gen. et sp. nov. (Ecuador); Maurhinophora Cerretti & Pape with type species Maurhinophora indoceanica Cerretti & Pape, gen. et sp. nov. (Mauritius); Neotarsina Cerretti & Pape with type species Neotarsina caraibica Cerretti & Pape, gen. et sp. nov. (Trinidad and Tobago) and Neotarsina andina Cerretti & Pape, sp. nov. (Peru); Kinabalumyia Cerretti & Pape with type species Kinabalumyia pinax Cerretti & Pape, gen. et sp. nov. (Malaysia, Sabah). The genus Aporeomyia Pape & Shima (type species Aporeomyia antennalis Pape & Shima), originally assigned to Tachinidae, is here reassigned to Rhinophoridae based on a reassessment of the homologies of the male terminalia. The following five species-group names, which were previously treated as junior synonyms or nomina dubia, are recognised as valid species names: Acompomintho caucasica (Villeneuve, 1908), stat. rev. [from nomen dubium to valid species]; Acompomintho sinensis (Villeneuve, 1936), stat. rev. [from nomen dubium to valid species]; Stevenia bertei (Rondani, 1865), stat. rev. [from nomen dubium to valid species]; Stevenia sardoa Villeneuve, 1920, stat. rev. [from junior synonym of Rhinophora deceptoria Loew, 1847 to valid species]; Stevenia subalbida (Villeneuve, 1911), stat. rev. [from junior synonym of Rhinophora deceptoria Loew, 1847 to valid species]. Reversal of precedence is invoked for the following case of subjective synonymy to promote stability in nomenclature: Rhinophora lepida (Meigen, 1824), nomen protectum, and Musca parcus Harris, 1780: 144, nomen oblitum. New generic and specific synonymies are proposed for the following two names: Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935, junior synonym of Tromodesia Rondani, 1856, syn. nov. and Ptilocheta tacchetti Rondani, 1865, junior synonym of Stevenia obscuripennis (Loew, 1847), syn. nov. The following new combinations are proposed: Acompomintho sinensis (Villeneuve, 1936), comb. nov. [transferred from Tricogena Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830]; Tromodesia guzari (Rohdendorf, 1935), comb. nov. [transferred from Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935]; Tromodesia intermedia (Rohdendorf, 1935), comb. nov. [transferred from Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935]; Tromodesia lindneriana (Rohdendorf, 1961), comb. nov. [transferred from Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935]; Tromodesia magnifica (Rohdendorf, 1935), comb. nov. [transferred from Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935]; Tromodesia obscurior (Rohdendorf, 1935), comb. nov. [transferred from Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935]; Tromodesia pallidissima (Rohdendorf, 1935), comb. nov. [transferred from Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935]; Tromodesia setiventris (Rohdendorf, 1935), comb. nov. [transferred from Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935] and Tromodesia shachrudi (Rohdendorf, 1935), comb. nov. [transferred from Mimodexia Rohdendorf, 1935].
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Vietnamellidae (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) of Thailand
The genus Vietnamella Tshernova, 1972 is investigated in detail for the first time in Thailand. As a consequence, four species are recognized, namely Vietnamella maculosa sp. nov., Vietnamella thani Tshernova, 1972, Vietnamella sp. B and Vietnamella sp. C. Herein, larvae and eggs of V. maculosa sp. nov. are described and reported from Chiang Rai Province. The larva of Vietnamella sp. B from Tak Province is also described, but not named due to insufficient material, and the imaginal stages and eggs of V. thani Tshernova, 1972 are described and presented for the first time. Our morphological evidence is supported with COI data. The phylogeny showed that four different lineages of the genus Vietnamella occur in Thailand, one of them, viz., Vietnamella sp. C, only known from a couple of COI sequences retrieved from the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD). Diagnoses for all known Oriental species are also presented.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Enteromius (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae, Smiliogastrinae) from the Awash River, Ethiopia, and the re-establishment of E. akakianus
In the present study, populations of small-sized smiliogastrin barbs with a thickened and serrated last simple dorsal-fin ray distributed in the Main Ethiopian Rift were analysed. An integrated approach combining genetic markers and a variety of morphological methods based on a wide set of characters, including osteology and sensory canals, proved to be very productive for taxonomy in this group of fishes. The results showed that Ethiopian Enteromius species with a serrated dorsal-fin ray are distant from the true E. paludinosus (with E. longicauda as a synonym) and the so-called E. paludinosus complex involves several supposedly valid species with two distinct species occurring in the Main Ethiopian Rift area. A new species, Enteromius yardiensis sp. nov., is described from the Afar Depression in the north-eastern part of the Northern Main Ethiopian Rift. Enteromius akakianus is resurrected as a valid species including populations from the Central Main Ethiopian Rift (basins of lakes Langano, Ziway, and Awasa). No genetic data were available for E. akakianus from its type locality. Enteromius yardiensis sp. nov. is clearly distant from E. akakianus from the Central Main Ethiopian Rift by CO1 and cytb barcodes: pairwise distances between the new species and the Ethiopian congeners were 5.4 % to 11.0 %. Morphologically, the new species most clearly differs from all examined Ethiopian congeners by three specialisations which are unique in the group: the absence of the anterior barbel, the absence of the medial branch of the supraorbital sensory canal, and few, 1–3, commonly two, scale rows between the lateral line and the anus.
["East Africa"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Taxonomic studies of the ground beetle subgenus Falcinebria Ledoux & Roux, 2005 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Nebria) from Honshû, Japan
Nebria (Falcinebria) reflexa Bates (Carabidae), a Japanese endemic flightless ground beetle, is geographically polytypic and was thought to be composed of four subspecies (including nominotypical subspecies). Populations from Honshû recognized as three subspecies were taxonomically revised based primarily on the shape of the endophallus, a membranous inner sac everted from the aedeagus. Three known taxa, Nebria reflexa, Nebria niohozana Bates, and Nebria uenoi Nakane, are redefined based on endophallus morphology, and the latter two are described as distinct species rather than subspecies of N. reflexa. Seven new species are described: N. sagittata sp. nov., N. iidesana sp. nov., N. furcata sp. nov., N. pisciformis sp. nov., N. kuragadakensis sp. nov., N. dichotoma sp. nov., and N. chugokuensis sp. nov. Comparative morphology, primarily of the endophallus, indicated that N. furcata, N. pisciformis, N. kuragadakensis, and N. uenoi form basal lineages, and the remaining six species form a clade in which N. niohozana and N. dichotoma are sister taxa. Species phylogeny and known distributions suggest that the initial diversification of these species occurred in the western Chûbu and eastern Kinki regions of Japan.

Microlicia almedae (Melastomataceae), a new species from the Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil
A new species, Microlicia almedae, is described and illustrated from the species-rich campo rupestre vegetation of Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil. The taxonomic novelty is morphologically related to M. giuliettiana and M. pulchra, which are also restricted to Chapada Diamantina. Microlicia almedae differs from the latter two species in leaf shape and size, hypanthium indumentum, calyx lobe shape and size, and petal size. In addition, M. almedae differs from M. giuliettiana by its uniformly magenta petals and from M. pulchra by its capsules with deciduous columellae. Variation in leaf shape among M. almedae, M. pulchra, and M. giuliettiana was quantified using elliptic Fourier analysis, which revealed near-complete separation among the three species.
["Campo rupestre"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Comprehensive plastid phylogenomics reveal the phylogeny of Amomum s.l. (Zingiberaceae) from Peninsular Malaysia
The Zingiberaceae family represents one of the most diverse monocot lineages in tropical Asia; however, the species delimitation of Amomum s.l. remains challenging due to morphological convergence and limited molecular evidence. This study analyzed transcriptomic data from seven Amomum s.l. species in Peninsular Malaysia to evaluate their evolutionary relationships and examine variation across chloroplast genes. RNA sequencing and de novo assembly identified 85 chloroplast protein-coding genes, of which 43 complete genes were retained for subsequent analyses. Comparative assessment revealed conserved genome features, including GC content ranging between 37.4% and 38.0%, alongside lineage-specific divergence in codon usage bias and expression profiles. Heatmap clustering of normalized gene expression patterns indicated distinct transcriptional signatures, particularly in A. elan, suggesting species-specific regulatory divergence. Nucleotide diversity (π) analysis identified hotspots in ndhJ, psbT, psbZ, and rps14, highlighting their potential as molecular markers for improving species delimitation, whereas core genes such as rbcL and psbA remained highly conserved, reducing their effectiveness in distinguishing species-level variation. Phylogenetic reconstruction using Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) approaches, based on 43 concatenated chloroplast genes (28,794 bp), supported the paraphyly of Amomum s.l., with Peninsular Malaysian species distributed across multiple clades. Amomum trilobum showed a closer association with Wurfbainia than with Amomum–Alpinia, suggesting the possible transfer of the species to Wurfbainia with further taxonomic evaluation. These findings highlight the important roles of genomic and morphological datasets in understanding the evolutionary relationships in Amomum s.l. and offer new molecular insights into the evolution of Zingiberaceae in Peninsular Malaysia.
["Amomum s.l."]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Rediscovery and lectotypification of Diplazium velutinum Holttum (Athyriaceae), a rare endemic fern from Peninsular Malaysia
Diplazium velutinum Holttum (Athyriaceae) is a rare endemic fern species originally described in 1937 from Cameron Highlands, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia. Since its original collection by R.E. Holttum, this species has remained poorly documented, with only a single subsequent record in 1988. During floristic surveys conducted in 2018, this species was rediscovered, representing the first documented collection in more than 30 years. A detailed morphological description is provided, the spore surface ornamentation is characterized, the molecular phylogenetic placement of the species within Athyriaceae is summarized, and ecological characteristics of its habitat are documented. The species is distinguished from its closest congener, D. tomentosum, by lamina dissection and stipe scale characters. Diplazium velutinum clusters together with D. crenatoserratum and D. tomentosum, consistent with its status as a distinct species. A lectotype is formally designated here for D. velutinum based on the original syntype S.F.N. 31221 held at the Singapore Botanic Gardens Herbarium (SING). This rediscovery demonstrates the value of continued pteridological surveys in the montane forests of Peninsular Malaysia and highlights the scientific significance of protecting montane forest habitats.
["Athyriaceae"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Forest Ecology and Conservation"]

Ten new species of Selaginella (Lycopodiopsida, Selaginellaceae) from northern South America, primarily Venezuela, with a new status and combination, and distributional updates
As part of the Selaginellaceae treatment on the “Lycophytes and Ferns of Venezuela,” led by Alan R. Smith (UC), ten new Selaginella species from northern South America, primarily found in Venezuela, are described. These include S. cataniapensis Valdespino, sp. nov., S. cultellifolia Valdespino & C.López, sp. nov., (also present in Colombia), S. guaramacalensis Valdespino & C.López, sp. nov., S. liesneri Valdespino, sp. nov., S. mawarinumensis Valdespino & C.López, sp. nov., S. monoloba A.R.Sm. ex C.López, Valdespino & Mostacero, sp. nov. (also present in Colombia), S. mostaceroi Valdespino & C.López, sp. nov., S. plagiochiloides Valdespino & C.López, sp. nov., S. tricula A.R.Sm. ex Valdespino & C.López, sp. nov., and S. turingiana Valdespino, sp. nov. Additionally, S. anemosyra Valdespino, nom. et stat. nov., is described and recognized at the species level, based on S. flabellata var. latifrons A.Braun. The new species are diagnosed using comparative morphology and contrasted with morphologically similar and closely related species. For each taxon, we provide illustrations from digitized herbarium material and scanning electron micrographs, along with preliminary conservation assessments using the IUCN categories and criteria.
["Cataniapo river"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Biological Activity of Diterpenoids and Biflavonoids", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Timmia sanjiangyuanensis (Timmiaceae, Bryophyta), a new species from the Qinghai Plateau, China
Timmia is a small moss genus with only eight currently accepted species. However, the boundaries and taxonomic status of some taxa remain uncertain and controversial, which has significantly hindered studies on its species diversity. During our 2025 expeditions to the Sanjiangyuan Region in Qinghai Province, China, we discovered a moss resembling T. sphaerocarpa with globose capsules, distinguishable by several morphological characters: stomata confined to the capsule base; vegetative and perichaetial leaves with a distinctly differentiated sheathing base; limb laminal cells with distinct mamillae; naked antheridia; sinuose exothecial cells; and spores 2–3 times larger than those of T. sphaerocarpa. Morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on two chloroplast markers (atpB-rbcL spacer and trnL-trnF) and the nuclear 26S region, suggest that this moss represents a new species, herein described as T. sanjiangyuanensis. A new section, sect. Pseudosphaerocarpa, is established to accommodate this species. Descriptions, illustrations and SEM photographs of the peristome and spores of this new species, along with an updated key to Timmia species in China, are provided.
["Mosses"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Discovery of Fissidens pokhrensis (Fissidentaceae) in China and an updated key to Chinese species with semilimbate leaves and papillose or mammillose laminal cells
Fissidens is one of the most diverse genera of mosses in China. Most members of this genus are terrestrial, with a few preferring tree trunks as substrates. Fissidens pokhrensis is newly discovered in China, occurring at the base of a tree in Yunnan Province. Morphological descriptions and photographs of this species are provided. In addition, an updated identification key is presented for Chinese species of Fissidens characterized by semilimbate leaves and papillose or mammillose laminal cells, including F. pokhrensis.
["Biodiversity hotspots"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

Oreocharis fulvovillosa (Gesneriaceae), a new species from western Yunnan, China
Oreocharis fulvovillosa, a new species of Gesneriaceae, is described and illustrated. This new species has only been discovered on the rock walls of an isolated karst hill at its type locality in Mang City, western Yunnan, China.
["Flora of Yunnan"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Primula xingyiensis (Primulaceae), a new species in Primula sect. Carolinella from Guizhou, China
Primula xingyiensis Z.K.Wu & C.Y.Deng, a new species of Primulaceae from Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. Morphological evidence places P. xingyiensis within Primula sect. Carolinella, a section characterised by plants completely efarinose but bearing pubescent or glandular hairs; leaf base cordate to rounded, rarely broadly cuneate, with distinct petioles; calyx campanulate or narrowly campanulate, longer than its diameter, split to 1/3–1/2 of its length; and capsule oblong, dehiscing nearly calyptrate at maturity. The new species is distinguished by its gracile habit, shortened stem, small leaves with long villous hairs on both surfaces, long-styled homostylous flowers, and a corolla that is 7–8 times as long as the calyx. Information on the distribution, morphological comparisons with closely related species, and the conservation status of the new species is also provided, along with a key to the known species of Primula sect. Carolinella.
["Conservation status"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Phylogeny and taxonomy of Iris (Iridaceae) series Tenuifoliae: Discovery of a clade with chloroplast genome inversion and description of three new species
Iris series Tenuifoliae (Diels) G.H.M.Lawr., which is widely distributed across Central and East Asia, comprises approximately 10 recognized taxa. However, taxonomic boundaries and phylogenetic relationships within the series have remained ambiguous due to considerable morphological complexity and insufficient molecular evidence. To resolve this, we conducted an integrated study using complete chloroplast genome sequences and morphological data. Our results clearly delineate the series’s boundaries and establish its phylogenetic position within the genus Iris. The series was resolved into three strongly supported clades, with the circumscription of one clade corroborated by a specific inversion in the Small Single-Copy (SSC) region of the chloroplast genome. Furthermore, we describe 3 new species from central-western China: Iris liupanshanensis H.T.Li, Z.Z.Zhang & T.Y.Zuo, sp. nov., Iris helanshanensis Z.Z.Zhang, T.Y.Zuo & H.T.Li, sp. nov. and Iris coeruleoviridis T.Y.Zuo, H.T.Li & Z.Z.Zhang, sp. nov.
["Chloroplast genome"]
["Bioactive natural compounds", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Natural Products and Biological Research"]

Cyrtomium lacrimipinnum (Dryopteridaceae), a new sexually reproducing fern from Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam
A new fern species, Cyrtomium lacrimipinnum (Dryopteridaceae), is described and illustrated from limestone ridges of Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, central Vietnam. It is most similar to C. pachyphyllum in having lateral pinnae with deeply cordate bases but is distinguished by its pinnae with acute and attenuate apices (vs. obtuse) and the presence of black or dark brown microscales on both surfaces of the pinnae (vs. confined to the abaxial surface). Spore counts of 64 per sporangium suggest a sexual reproductive mode.
["Chloroplast DNA"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Ophiorrhiza xishuiensis (Rubiaceae), a new species endemic to Guizhou, Sichuan, and Chongqing, China
A new species in Rubiaceae, Ophiorrhiza xishuiensis, is described from China. The new species is endemic to the Danxia landform at the juncture of Guizhou Province, Sichuan Province, and Chongqing City. It is a herb with a 1–7 cm long rooting stem, 3–11 nodes, and most leaves arranged in markedly unequal pairs. It has a somewhat inequilateral leaf blade base, a congested-cymose inflorescence, and well-developed bracteoles. We investigated two populations in Guizhou, China. The new taxon has been collected or photographed by others in Sichuan and Chongqing, China, and misidentified as O. japonica, O. umbricola, O. cantonensis, or O. chinensis. An identification key to O. xishuiensis and morphologically similar species is provided.
["Danxia landform"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Ophiorrhiza bibracteata (Rubiaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Ophiorrhiza bibracteata (Rubiaceae), a new species from northwest Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. It can be distinguished from its allies O. mitchelloides, O. nanlingensis and O. grandibracteolata by the shape and size of the bracts (ovate, 8–11 mm long) and the shape and size of the calyx lobes (triangular, 0.8–1.0 mm long, glabrous, with glands between the lobes). According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the new species is assessed as Data Deficient (DD) until more information becomes available.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Craticula scientiacivica (Stauroneidaceae), sp. nov., a new diatom species found during a citizen science project
Craticula scientiacivica Moyón & S. Blanco, sp. nov., is a new diatom species discovered during the CiDIA-micro citizen science project at the University of León, Spain, which evaluates the environmental impact of biodegradable packaging on periphytic diatom communities. This initiative involved secondary school students and teachers in sampling experimental aquaria inoculated with natural benthic algae from Laguna Sentiz (León, Spain), revealing the novel taxon in a control treatment under alkaline conditions (pH 9, low nutrients). Valves are linear-lanceolate, panduriform, with concave margins and protracted rostrate apices, measuring 32.0–35.7 μm long and 3.9–6.3 μm wide. Striae are uniseriate, 18–19 in 10 μm, and weakly radiate, with circular central areolae (37–46 in 10 μm) transitioning to elliptical forms apically. The raphe is filiform, with expanded, unilaterally deflected proximal endings and terminal hooks extending onto the mantle. Teratological forms were found in 26% of individuals, featuring deformed outlines, misaligned raphe, and aberrant copulae, possibly linked to culture conditions despite the absence of chemical stressors. Morphologically, C. scientiacivica aligns with Craticula (Stauroneidaceae) via its shallow mantle, apically elongated external foramina, and deflected central raphe endings, but its unique panduriform shape and dimensions distinguish it from congeners. Molecular data are pending, but its occurrence in a single experimental tank suggests aerial propagule dispersal. This discovery underscores the role of citizen science in uncovering hidden biodiversity, bridging education and taxonomy in diatom research.
["Citizen science"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Algal biology and biofuel production", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

Breynia phongquangensis (Phyllanthaceae), a new species from Vietnam
The new species Breynia phongquangensis from Vietnam is described and illustrated. The new species is compared with three similar species in an identification key and a table of detailed morphological characters. Breynia phongquangensis differs from the morphologically similar species B. macrantha, B. phuongiana, and B. spatulifolia by a unique combination of characters, including fleshy sepals in the staminate flowers (vs. non-fleshy in the other three species); staminate flowers 4.9–5.8 mm in diameter (vs. ca. 3.3 mm in B. spatulifolia); outer sepals of pistillate flowers 3.7–4.6 mm long (vs. 6–7 mm long in B. macrantha); and a markedly longer ovary, 3.7–4.9 mm long (vs. < 2.8 mm long in the other three species). It further differs in having fruits ca. 27.0 mm long (vs. ≤ 25.0 mm long in the other species), pistillate flower pedicels 16–53 mm long (vs. 2.5–4.0 mm long in B. phuongiana and 0.3–3.0 mm long in B. spatulifolia), globose fruits (vs. starfish-shaped in B. phuongiana), and fewer lateral veins (6–8 pairs vs. 9–15 pairs in B. spatulifolia).
["Glochidion"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Gentiana tingnongiana and G. shangwui, two new species of Gentiana (Gentianaceae) from the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Sichuan province, China
Gentiana tingnongiana H.F.Cao & L.Zhang, sp. nov., and Gentiana shangwui H.F.Cao & L.Zhang, sp. nov., two new species of Gentianaceae from Sichuan, China, are described and illustrated here. G. tingnongiana has an erect main stem, obovate to oblong stem leaves, a yellowish-green corolla with external stripes and a pink to pale purple or sub-white interior, numerous blackish-purple spots in the throat and plicae, and small seeds 0.7–1.0 mm in diameter. Gentiana shangwui is characterized by densely puberulent leaves and calyces, a corolla throat without short striations, a bright yellow or pale yellow middle part of the corolla tube, a relatively small corolla, stamens inserted at the apical part of the tube, and a 4–6 mm long style. Phylogenetic analysis of internal transcribed spacer sequences recovers both species as distinct, well-supported monophyletic lineages. Combined morphological and phylogenetic evidence supports the establishment of these two new species.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Didymocarpus xuanlienensis, a new species of Didymocarpus (Gesneriaceae) from Vietnam
Didymocarpus xuanlienensis, a new species from Vietnam, is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to D. brevipedunculatus and D. purpureobracteatus in terms of corolla size and color but differs from D. brevipedunculatus in leaf blade shape, bract shape, indumentum, and calyx shape and differs from D. purpureobracteatus in peduncle indumentum, bract shape, and calyx shape. A detailed morphological description of the new species and a key to all Didymocarpus species in Vietnam are provided.
["Didymocarpus"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Vaccinium fangianum (Ericaceae), a new species from Northwest Yunnan, China, with critical notes on V. ardisioides
Vaccinium fangianum, a new species of Ericaceae from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated. This species was previously misidentified as Vaccinium ardisioides. Morphologically, the new species is similar to Vaccinium ardisioides in its epiphytic habit, pseudo-whorled leaves with entire blade margins, and axillary racemose inflorescences but differs in having wider leaf blades, a deeply lobed calyx limb, a yellowish-green corolla that is villous internally, and spurless anthers with tubules ca. 1.7× as long as thecae. Detailed descriptions, analytical photographic plates, conservation status information, and a distribution map of the two species are also provided. In addition, V. rubescens was confirmed to be a synonym of V. ardisioides in this study.
["Name misapplication"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Rhododendron jiucaipingensis (Ericaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Rhododendron jiucaipingensis Jian Xu & M. T. An, sp. nov. (Ericaceae), a new species of R. subgen. Hymenanthes, subsect. Argyrophylla, from northwestern Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. It is an evergreen shrub 1.5–3.0 m tall, characterized by green, densely white-tomentose current-year branchlets, leaves crowded at branch apices (5.5–9.5 × 2.5–4.0 cm) with 8–11 pairs of lateral veins, 10 stamens, and cylindric capsules 1.2–2.0 cm long. The new species is morphologically most similar to R. hypoglaucum and R. argyrophyllum, but it is readily distinguished by having densely white-tomentose current-year branchlets, fewer lateral veins (8–11 pairs), a double-layered white indumentum on the abaxial surfaces of young leaves, and 10 stamens. Phylogenetic analysis based on a whole-genome SNP dataset robustly resolves R. jiucaipingensis as a distinct lineage within subsect. Argyrophylla, positioned as sister to the monophyletic clade of five congeneric species with high support (SH-aLRT = 100%, UFBoot = 100%). This molecular evidence, congruent with diagnostic morphological characters, supports the recognition of R. jiucaipingensis as a species new to science.
["Ericaceae"]
["Bioactive Natural Diterpenoids Research", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Taxonomic novelties in Columnea (Gesneriaceae) from Peru: Two new species from the Bosque de Protección Pui Pui
Columnea puipuiense R.Rojas & Vásquez, sp. nov., and Columnea valenzuelai, R.Rojas & Vásquez, sp. nov., two new species of Gesneriaceae endemic to the Bosque de Protección Pui Pui, central Peru, are described and illustrated. Their morphological affinities with related species of the genus Columnea are discussed, and complete descriptions are provided, including diagnostic characters, ecological information, and geographic distribution. With the recent discovery of Columnea yanachagaensis R.Rojas, A.Monteagudo & J.Flores and C. cesarii R.Rojas, Vásquez & L. Valenz, along with the discovery of Columnea puipuiense and Columnea valenzuelai, the number of Columnea species recorded for Peru increases to 36. These findings raise the documented diversity of Peruvian Gesneriaceae to 227 species.
["Columnea"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Sida gathwalarum (Malvaceae), a new species from India
Sida gathwalarum (Malvaceae), a new species from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India, is described and illustrated based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. Morphologically, the new species is similar to Sida angustifolia Mill. but consistently differs from it in leaf shape, varying from narrowly lanceolate to ovate; base cuneate to rounded; petioles without spiny emergence (spur) at the base; stipules linear-lanceolate and dissimilar in shape; and yellow styles of different sizes. The species is further characterized by indehiscent fruits with the fruiting calyx soft and compressible, the corolla retuse to nearly entire at the apex, and 5(–6) markedly heteromorphic mericarps that are trigonous–globose, coarsely rugose–tuberculate, and bear a shallow U-shaped apical notch. The seeds are subtrigonous, asymmetrical, and uniformly dull brown to grayish brown. These stable diagnostic traits from different populations support its recognition as a new species, Sida gathwalarum Sumit Malik, Inam Malik & Vijai Malik, sp. nov. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of nuclear ribosomal DNA (internal transcribed spacer) sequence data of 14 Sida species supports the phylogenetic position of the new species, Sida gathwalarum, within sect. Sidae. The results of molecular phylogenetic analysis show that Sida gathwalarum is closely related to S. acuta.
["India"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity", "Plant and animal studies"]

Selaginella brachyclada reinstated from synonymy under S. rhodostachya (Lycopodiopsida, Selaginellaceae), with updated descriptions of both taxa
Selaginella brachyclada is reinstated as a separate species, distinct from S. rhodostachya, based on a comparative morphological review of herbarium specimens, including type specimens. We provide updated descriptions and illustrations for both taxa and clarify their diagnostic features using macromorphological and micromorphological data from scanning electron microscopy (leaf and spore surface). We discuss differences between these taxa and other morphologically similar species to help ensure accurate identification and stabilize the use of names within the Selaginella valdepilosa group. Distributional and ecological information on S. brachyclada and S. rhodostachya, gathered from the examined specimens, is compiled and analyzed to support preliminary conservation assessments.
["Chartaceous"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Biological Activity of Diterpenoids and Biflavonoids", "Leaf Properties and Growth Measurement"]

Hemiboea siccinvolucris (Gesneriaceae), a new species from northeastern Guangxi, China
A new species of Gesneriaceae, Hemiboea siccinvolucris B.Pan & Y.B.Lu, sp. nov., from Guangxi, China, is described. This species is morphologically similar to H. cavaleriei, H. subcapitata, and H. liana but can be distinguished by its densely pubescent adaxial surface and sparsely pubescent abaxial surface (vs. adaxially glabrous to sparsely pubescent and abaxially glabrous in H. cavaleriei; adaxially nearly glabrous to pubescent and abaxially glabrous to pubescent in H. subcapitata; glabrous on both surfaces in H. liana) and by its green abaxial surface (vs. pale green or purplish in H. cavaleriei and H. subcapitata; lilac in H. liana). The terminal cyme has only 1–3 flowers (vs. pseudoterminal or axillary cymes with three or more flowers in H. cavaleriei and H. subcapitata; terminal, usually 1-flowered, occasionally 2-flowered in H. liana). The spherical involucre dries early before anthesis (vs. spherical, with no records of early involucre desiccation in H. cavaleriei and H. subcapitata; trigonous, with no records of early involucre desiccation in H. liana); the stigma is reniform (vs. obtuse in H. cavaleriei and H. subcapitata; shallowly bilobed in H. liana). Phylogenetic analyses based on both ITS sequences and chloroplast genome data show that all sampled individuals of this taxon form a well-supported monophyletic group, supporting its recognition as a new species. Detailed morphological descriptions, line drawings, comparative diagnostic characters, and molecular phylogenetic analyses are provided.
["Hemiboea siccinvolucris"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Lysimachia × glabrophora (Ericales, Primulaceae), a new wild nothospecies from the Republic of Korea
The genus Lysimachia (Primulaceae) is taxonomically complex, particularly within sect. Spicatae in East Asia. Field surveys in the Republic of Korea revealed a taxon exhibiting intermediate morphological states between L. barystachys and L. fortunei, including variation in leaf length-to-width ratio, raceme architecture, and floral density at the apex. Principal component analysis (PCA) of morphological traits positioned the putative hybrid between the parental taxa, forming a distinguishable cluster despite partial overlap. Phylogenetic analyses based on nrITS and plastome data revealed cytonuclear discordance, consistent with a hybrid origin. Integrating morphological and molecular evidence, this taxon is described as a new wild nothospecies, Lysimachia × glabrophora.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Botanical Studies and Applications"]

The overlooked diversity within a well-known diatom: Unraveling the Luticola ventricosa complex
The Luticola ventricosa (Kützing) D.G.Mann has long been regarded as a morphologically variable and cosmopolitan species, yet its taxonomic concept has remained unstable due to the schematic original description. Recent revision of the type has provided a morphological framework, enabling critical reassessment of populations assigned to this species. During investigations focused on various populations originally treated as L. ventricosa, ten morphologically similar taxa were recognized within the complex. Four of these correspond to already described taxa (L. ventricosa, L. dubia, L. levkovii, L. ventriconfusa), while six taxa are described here as new to science: L. borealis sp. nov., L. exilissima sp. nov., L. jagodae sp. nov., L. lacunicola sp. nov., L. microventricosa sp. nov., and L. speluncae sp. nov. Results demonstrate that the diversity within the L. ventricosa complex has been substantially underestimated and that many earlier records of this species likely represent misidentifications. This study highlights the importance of detailed morphological revision, of even well-known species, for resolving cryptic diversity and improving understanding of species distributions and ecological differentiation.
["Bacillariophyceae"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Combining nuclear genome, chloroplast fragments and morphology to solve the species delimitation of Aquilegia incurvata (Ranunculaceae)
Hybridization can be widespread among closely related plant species, and the resulting intermediate traits may complicate species delimitation and identification. Such taxonomic uncertainty can lead to misinformed conservation actions or poor resource management. Aquilegia incurvata is a Chinese endemic species restricted to the Qinba Mountains. Despite numerous field surveys in its reported distribution area, over a five-year period, no specimens fitting its description in “Flora Tsinlingensis” have been found, casting doubts on the validity of this species. To determine whether A. incurvata truly exists, we examined the type specimens of A. incurvata (including holotype and paratypes), as well as fresh material from four populations of Aquilegia occurring at the type locality. We also conducted morphological and genetic analyses to explore species boundaries between A. incurvata and four closely related species (A. ecalcarata, A. kansuensis, A. yabeana and A. yangii). Additionally, we integrated morphological and genetic data from 12 previously reported populations of these four closely related species. We performed morphological clustering via principal component analysis (PCA), as well as phylogenetic and population genetic analyses. Eleven floral traits from six type specimens and four populations were quantified for interspecific differentiation. Strict filtering of whole-genome resequencing data yielded 9,073 high-quality SNPs and 20 cpDNA loci from A. incurvata’s type specimens and its closely related species. Our study revealed two key findings: (1) The type specimens of A. incurvata are hybrids between A. kansuensis, A. yangii and A. ecalcarata, with genetic components of all three species and floral morphology intermediate between A. kansuensis and A. yangii; (2) Samples from the locus classicus and the provenances of the paratype specimens of A. incurvata cluster into two groups—One corresponds to A. yabeana and the other one to A. kansuensis. Our study confirms A. incurvata is not an independent species but a local hybrid.
["Aquilegia incurvata"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

Impatiens leshanensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Impatiens leshanensis X.H.Gu, K.Huang & Z.X.Fu, sp. nov., a new species of Balsaminaceae from Jinkouhe District, Leshan City, Sichuan Province, China, is described and illustrated. Phylogenetic analysis based on the complete cp genome indicates that the new species is closely related to Impatiens faberi Hook.f., forming a monophyletic clade. However, I. leshanensis can be distinguished from I. faberi and other morphologically similar species (including Impatiens baishaensis B.Ding & H.P.Deng, Impatiens piufanensis Hook.f., Impatiens forrestii Hook.f. & W.W.Sm, Impatiens distracta Hook.f., Impatiens lateristachys Y.L.Chen & Y.Q.Lu, Impatiens rostellata Franch., Impatiens rectirostrata Y.L.Chen & Y.Q.Lu, and Impatiens longcanggouensis Q.Luo.) by its unique morphological traits: oblong-elliptic dorsal petal as wide as the lateral petals, narrowly funnelform lower sepal, pale pink flowers with deep red spots and pink stripes, and ellipsoid seeds with reticulate ornamentation. Additionally, the distribution map and chloroplast genome features are provided.
["Balsaminaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Saxifraga zhiminiae (Saxifragaceae), a new species from Xizang, China
Saxifraga zhiminiae, a remarkable new species of the genus Saxifraga sect. Ciliatae (Saxifragaceae), is described from Xizang, China. This new species morphologically differs from all known species of sect. Ciliatae by its plant glabrous (except for glandular cilia on the sepal margins), leaf blade abaxially red and petals pink with a dark red base adaxially. Morphological comparison and molecular evidence from chloroplast genomes indicate that S. zhiminiae belongs to sect. Ciliatae subsect. Hirculoideae and is closely related to Saxifraga diversifolia, but it can be easily distinguished by its glabrous habit and striking petal colouration.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms"]

Two new species of Octomeria (Orchidaceae, Pleurothallidinae) and two new country records from Ecuador
Octomeria (Orchidaceae) is a genus of predominantly epiphytic herbs distributed from Belize to Argentina. Ecuador hosts 30 species of Octomeria, making it one of the most species-rich countries for the genus. In Ecuador, most species occur in the south-eastern province of Zamora-Chinchipe. Two new species of Octomeria (O. ivouquillasii and O. tricarinata) from Ecuador are described and illustrated. Taxonomic affinities between the new taxa and their nearest related species are discussed and information regarding habitat ecology is provided. Additionally, two related species (O. oncidioides and O. odontoglossoides) have been reported in south-eastern Ecuador for the first time. Additional notes regarding O. candidae are included, correcting the collection number of the type material.
["Morona Santiago"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Towards a taxonomic revision of the lycophyte genus Selaginella (Selaginellaceae) in Guizhou, China: new species, new records and cryptic species
To clarify the taxonomic identities of newly-collected Selaginella specimens from Guizhou, south-western China, we briefly reviewed the Selaginella species recorded in Guizhou and conducted a study integrating morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses. The specimens from a total of 26 Selaginella populations which we collected in 2024 were grouped into 16 taxonomic entities, based on morphological comparisons, including ten species with established names and six taxa of uncertain identity. Phylogenetic analyses, based on plastid regions (rbcL, atpI, psbA) with broad sampling and plastid CDS with focused sampling, confidently placed 15 newly-collected specimens within the phylogeny: one specimen (S. davidii) within the Kungiselaginella clade and the remaining 14 distributed amongst three subclades of the Hypopterygiopsis clade. By integrating morphology and molecular evidence, we recognise one new species (S. dushanensis), one new provincial record (S. parachrysocaulos) to Guizhou and four cryptic species (S. amblyphylla, S. qingchengshanensis and two lineages of S. vaginata); where “cryptic species” denotes morphologically indistinguishable, but phylogenetically distinct lineages. Amongst these, S. amblyphylla and S. qingchengshanensis are also new records to Guizhou. The new species S. dushanensis is described and illustrated. It is morphologically very similar to S. monospora and S. submonospora, but differs mainly in median leaves with a long-aristate apex. As a result, the known diversity of Selaginella in Guizhou now records 43 species, including the four cryptic and one putative new taxon (S. cf. xipholepis). Further studies are needed to confirm the identities of the cryptic species and the remaining unidentified taxon.
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Biological Activity of Diterpenoids and Biflavonoids", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Primula maershanensis (Primulaceae), a new species in Primula sect. Auganthus from Sichuan, China
Primula maershanensis J.L.Gu & Z.K.Wu, a new species of Primulaceae from Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphological evidence supports the placement of P. maershanensis within Primula sect. Auganthus, a section characterized by leaves that are shallowly to deeply lobed and covered with hairs and by a distinctively broad calyx with a flattened base. The new species is distinguished from other species in this section by its short rhizome and nearly fleshy roots; subpurple petioles and scapes; leaf blade suborbicular, wider than long, margin palmately 5–9-lobed to the middle of the blade; and a bright yellow corolla associated with long-homostylous flowers. Information on the distribution, morphological comparisons with closely related species, and the conservation status of the new species is also provided, along with a key to the known species of Primula sect. Auganthus.
["Conservation status"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Mazus unguiculatus (Mazaceae), a distinct new species from Anhui Province, eastern China
Mazus unguiculatus Bo Li, a new species of Mazaceae from Anhui Province in eastern China, is described and illustrated. Phylogenetic analyses based on combined chloroplast DNA regions (matK, rbcL, rps16, and trnL-F) and the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS), together with morphological evidence, confirm that the new species is sister to M. spicatus Vaniot. It is distinguished from the latter and all other congeners by its unique corolla morphology, viz., the upper lip is bilobed, each lobe has an emarginate to bilobed apex, whereas the lower lip is deeply trilobed with subequal lobes; each lobe possesses a short claw at the base and shallow teeth at the middle of the apex, and the palate is absent. A detailed description is provided, along with information on its distribution, habitat, and conservation status.
["Lamiales"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

Rhododendron luohanbaense (Ericaceae), a new species from northeast Yunnan, China
Rhododendron luohanbaense, a new species of Ericaceae, is described from Zhaotong City in northeastern Yunnan Province, China. Morphologically, it is most similar to both R. pachytrichum and R. maculiferum and can be classified into the subgen. Hymenanthes sect. Pontica subsect. Maculifera. However, it can be easily distinguished by markedly smaller and narrower leaves with acuminate apex, abaxial midribs densely covered with woolly indumentum, yellowish-green corollas speckled with green or purple dots, inflorescences bearing up to 7 flowers, flowers with ovary densely pilose, capsule densely brown setose. Phylogenomic evidence, based on a coalescent-based species tree reconstructed from 5358 single-copy nuclear orthologous genes, also supports recognition of the new taxon.
["Ericaceae"]
["Bioactive Natural Diterpenoids Research", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Hemipilia huanglongensis (Orchidaceae), a new species from north Sichuan, China
A new species of Orchidaceae, Hemipilia huanglongensis D.J.Xie & R.B.Zhang, was discovered on steep karst slopes in northern Sichuan, China and is described and illustrated, based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence. While morphologically similar to H. amplexifolia (Tang & F.T.Wang) Y.Tang and H.Peng, H. faberi (Rolfe) Y.Tang and H.Peng and H. tetraloba (Finet) Y.Tang and H.Peng, it can be distinguished by a squamose lip base with an upwardly protruding lamella, along with larger floral structures, including the sepals, petals, lip and ovary. Phylogenetic analyses, based on nuclear (ITS) and plastid (matK, rbcL) DNA sequences, further support its distinction from these three morphologically allied species.
["Conservation assessment"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A revision of the Miliusa (Annonaceae) from China
Based on extensive fieldwork, herbarium and literature studies, and molecular phylogenetic analyses, we present a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the genus Miliusa in China. Ten species are recognized, with the following major taxonomic changes: Miliusa tenuistipitata is reduced to synonymy with M. dioeca; two new species, M. aurilaveoides X.L.Hou & Z.Y.Shi, sp. nov. and M. xiaoboi X.L.Hou & Z.Y.Shi, sp. nov., are described; M. sinensis is reinstated as distinct from M. balansae; and the treatment of M. cuneata and M. velutina in the “Flora of China” is revised. An identification key and photographs of living plants are provided.
["Malmeoideae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Selaginella magna (Selaginellaceae), a new species from China
Selaginella magna (Selaginellaceae), a new species in S. subg. Stachygynandrum from Guangxi, Fujian and Hunan, China, is here described and illustrated. It is the largest erect Selaginella species in China, characterized by acropetally shortening branches acropetally. Selaginella magna is most similar to S. willdenowii, but can be differentiated by its erect main stem, rhizophores restricted to rhizomes and stolons, and the absence of auricles at the base of both ventral and axillary leaves. Its triangular frond-like leafy stem with an acuminate apex confers a high degree of distinguishability in its natural habitat.
["Deciduous plant"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Biological Activity of Diterpenoids and Biflavonoids", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Taxonomic notes on Napeanthus (Gesneriaceae) in Ecuador: neotypification of two species and a new species from the eastern Andean slopes
Ongoing field expeditions in Ecuador and herbarium research have resulted in the discovery of a new species and the stabilization of two names in Napeanthus (Gesneriaceae). Napeanthus robustus Fritsch and Napeanthus ecuadorensis Fritsch were both described from specimens housed at the Berlin herbarium that were subsequently destroyed; therefore, neotypes are designated to stabilize the application of these names. A third taxon, Napeanthus decurrens J.L.Clark, sp. nov., is described as a narrow endemic from the eastern Andean slopes of the Ecuadorian province of Zamora-Chinchipe.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Ayenia nathaliae (Malvaceae, Byttnerioideae), a new species from Colombia and three new combinations
Ayenia nathaliae Dorr, sp. nov. is described and illustrated, and its relationships are discussed. It is known only from the Magdalena Medio subregion of Antioquia department, Colombia. Morphologically, it is similar to A. saligna Dorr, another Colombian endemic from the Bajo Cauca and Nordeste subregions of Antioquia and also restricted to riparian habitats. The new species is tentatively assigned to A. subsect. Stipulares Cristóbal, an early diverging lineage of species within Ayenia s.str. found in northern South America and Central America. However, the boundaries of this subsection and other subsections are unclear. In addition, after reviewing the species of Ayenia L. and Byttneria Loefl. known from Colombia, three additional species of the latter genus are transferred to the former.
["Ayenia"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

Perilimnastes dongchauensis (tribe Sonerileae, Melastomataceae), a new species from Quang Trị province, Vietnam
Perilimnastes dongchauensis (Melastomataceae), apparently endemic to Quang Tri province, Central Vietnam, is described here as a new species. It closely resembles P. suberalata in having elliptic-lanceolate leaf blades, few-flowered inflorescences, 4-merous flowers, and similar anther morphology. However, it differs in several key characteristics, with stems and petioles densely setose (vs. glabrous), leaves equal or subequal in a pair (vs. unequal, rarely subequal) and adaxial surface setose (vs. glabrous), hypanthia setose (vs. glabrous), calyx lobes narrowly triangular (vs. linear), and petals much larger, measuring 17–20 × 13–18 mm (vs. ca. 6 × 3.5 mm).
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Solms-laubachia garzeensis (Brassicaceae), a new species from the Hengduan Mountains of Sichuan Province, China
A new species of the genus Solms-laubachia was discovered in the Hengduan Mountains region of Sichuan Province, China, and it has been described and illustrated. Morphologically, it is similar to Solms-laubachia himalayensis (Cambess.) J. P. Yue, Al-Shehbaz & H. Sun, Solms-laubachia stewartii (T. Anderson) J. P. Yue, Al-Shehbaz & H. Sun, Solms-laubachia linearis (N. Busch) J. P. Yue, Al-Shehbaz & H. Sun. However, by synthesizing the characteristics of simple trichomes, blue-violet petals, large siliques, toothed bracteal leaves and cryptic coloration possessed by the new species, it can be distinctly distinguished from the aforementioned three species. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) of 23 other species in the same genus also supports the conclusion that this is a new species. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of its pollen revealed that it is tricolpate. Solms-laubachia garzeensis J. Fu, Y. Ma & H. X. Yin is currently distributed only in the Shaluli Mountains at the junction of Garze County and Xinlong County in Garze Prefecture, Sichuan Province. According to the classification criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), it is currently assessed as “critically endangered” (CR).
["Alpine subnival belt"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Phylogeny of Vietnamosasa (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) based on syntenic nuclear genes with description of a new species
Vietnamosasa is a small paleotropical woody bamboo genus of the Bambusa-Dendrocalamus-Gigantochloa (BDG) complex with unresolved interspecific relationships. It grows in the dry dipterocarp forest and adapts to seasonal dryness and annual burning. Here, we reconstructed the phylogeny of Vietnamosasa using 938 syntenic nuclear genes. Our phylogenetic analysis based on four nuclear gene datasets from three subgenomes, i.e., subgenomes A, B, C, and all subgenomes combined, revealed that all species of Vietnamosasa, including a putative new species, clustered as a monophyletic group with high support, and Pseudobambusa is closely related to Vietnamosasa. Within Vietnamosasa, V. pusilla and V. darlacensis form a monophyletic group sister to V. ciliata. However, extensive discordance among gene trees indicates the complex reticulate evolution within Vietnamosasa. On the basis of morphological comparisons with the three published species of Vietnamosasa, together with phylogenomic evidence, we described a new species, V. sakonnakhonensis from Thailand, and provided a key to the four recognized species. The new species is distinguished from other species of Vietnamosasa by its wider foliage leaf blade and longer pistil.
["BDG complex"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Afzelia corallina (Fabaceae), a new micro-endemic tree from Pemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Afzelia corallina A.Bianchi, S.Orsenigo & Baldesi (Fabaceae: Detarioideae) is described from the coral rag forests of the Tondooni Peninsula in the Ngezi–Vumawimbi Forest Reserve on Pemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania. Morphologically distinct from all known members of the genus, this large, emergent tree shows the closest affinities to Afzelia quanzensis but differs in several vegetative and floral characters, including its falcate leaflets, highly branched terminal inflorescences, petal colour, the colour of stamens, and the number of extra staminodes. The species is currently known only from a restricted coastal limestone habitat, indicating a micro-endemic distribution. An updated diagnostic key to East African Afzelia species is provided. This discovery highlights the botanical uniqueness and conservation importance of Pemba’s remaining forest ecosystems.
["Afzelieae"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Pharmacological Effects of Medicinal Plants"]

Morphological and genetic evidence for the Sarcaulus brasiliensis complex (Sapotaceae, Chyrsophylloideae) reveals a new species from the rainforests of the Middle Magdalena Valley, Colombia
Sarcaulus is a small genus of neotropical trees in the Sapotaceae. Most specimens in herbaria are identified as S. brasiliensis, a species recognized from Costa Rica to Bolivia. Morphological characteristics and molecular sequence data help us to identify a new species of Sarcaulus with hermaphrodite flowers from the Middle Magdalena Valley, Colombia. A complete description, an illustration, a Lancaster plate, information about habitat, phenology, conservation status, and the species name etymology are presented. In addition, a key for identifying Sarcaulus species is provided. Sarcaulus paujilensis is remarkable for its bisexual flowers, in an otherwise predominantly unisexual (plant dioecious) genus. This new finding increases the number of species of the genus in the Neotropical flora to six. More fieldwork and molecular phylogenetics are needed to establish many new taxa.
["Choc\u00f3 Region"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

The vascular flora of the Comino archipelago (Maltese Islands)
A comprehensive analysis of published records of terrestrial vascular plants reported from the Comino archipelago (Maltese Islands) since the mid-1800s and of plants recorded by us between 2008 and 2025 was combined to synthesise the first annotated and comprehensive checklist of vascular plants of Comino. A total of 328 observations were made, of which 78 are new records for Comino and two are recorded for the first time in the Maltese Islands. The flora consists of 490 vascular plant species. This study identifies and examines ecologically sensitive species on the Comino archipelago, including 58 strictly and legally protected species, 21 endemics, and several other plants that are red-listed as threatened species or are very rare in the Maltese Islands (e.g., Euphorbia peplis, Hornungia procumbens, and Malva setigera). Alien species are also reviewed, and 12 out of the 61 recorded species are declared invasive for Malta, but only a few are effectively invasive on Comino (e.g., Acacia saligna, Ailanthus altissima, and Oxalis pes-caprae). In addition, this account offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of Comino’s geology, natural habitats, climate, and anthropogenic history. More critically, it identifies the principal threats and pressures affecting the island, which have contributed, at least in part, to the disappearance of approximately 160 species previously recorded but not observed for several decades. As highlighted in previous studies, the persistent issue of over-tourism on Comino over the past 15–20 years warrants urgent attention, as the most recent reports indicate that some 10,000 visitors flock to the small beaches of the Blue Lagoon and Santa Marija Bay, which, as also demonstrated in this report, overwhelm and disturb this ecologically sensitive Natura 2000 archipelago.
["Checklist of plants"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Sedum xinchangense, a new species of Crassulaceae from Zhejiang, East China
Sedum xinchangense (Crassulaceae), a new species from Zhejiang, eastern China, is described with illustrations. The new species is morphologically similar to S. lungtsuanense and S. stellariifolium, but can be distinguished by a combination of morphological characters, including the presence of stolons, leaf and sepal shape, indumentum type, flower number, and leaf and seed size. Phylogenetic analyses also confirmed its distinct species status, placing it within the Acre clade of subfamily Sempervivoideae. Based on both morphological and molecular evidence, we assign the new species to sect. Sedum.
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Hellwigia opalina (Zingiberaceae) – a new species of the enigmatic jade gingers of Sulawesi
The Indonesian Island of Sulawesi is home to a number of members of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae, with unusual turquoise flowers not found anywhere else. A recent paper reinstating Hellwigia, using molecular evidence, placed these “jade gingers” in this genus. During a joint expedition between the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and Bogor Botanical Gardens 26 years ago, an interesting jade ginger was collected at Mt. Sojol. This is similar to two other named species from Sulawesi, H. coeruleoviridis and H. glacicaerulea, in having unusual dimorphic, turquoise-bluish green flowers but differs from both in the much shorter ligule without a demarcation line and is described here as Hellwigia opalina. In preparation for this, all available material of jade gingers from Sulawesi was examined, and all except the collections from Mt. Sojol had a long ligule with a demarcation line similar to H. coeruleoviridis and H. glacicaerulea. It is, however, questionable whether the identification by R.M. Smith of several collections from Lore Lindu National Park, Central Sulawesi, matches the type of H. coeruleoviridis, which was lost in Berlin during the Second World War. Until this species has been recollected at its type locality, here identified as Mt. Tentolomatinan, 300 km away, the identification cannot be easily ascertained. Rhizomes from Mt. Sojol were cultivated in botanic gardens, and plants cultivated at the Royal Botanic Garden flowered several times, which enabled detailed studies and dissection of both flower morphs. This is usually impossible during fieldwork and emphasizes the importance of cultivation of gingers—not just for ex situ conservation but also for research purposes. Detailed photographs taken of the cultivated plants were used to obtain a better morphological understanding and to illustrate Hellwigia opalina in the present paper.
["Alpinia"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Natural Products and Applications"]

Asplenium paucipinnatum (Aspleniaceae), a new fern species from southern Thailand, based on morphological and molecular data
Asplenium paucipinnatum, a new fern species from Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, is described. Morphologically, it closely resembles A. micantifrons in having short-creeping and radial rhizome steles, 1-pinnate laminae, deeply incised pinnae on the basiscopic margin, and sori arranged in two rows close to the costae. However, A. paucipinnatum is readily distinguished by having fewer lateral pinnae (< 14 pairs), obliquely rhombic pinnae with acute apices and obtuse marginal teeth, contrasting the more numerous pinnae (> 15 pairs), lanceolate pinnae with acuminate apices, and acute teeth in A. micantifrons. Phylogenetic analyses based on multiple plastid DNA regions (atpB, rbcL, rps4, rps4-trnS, trnL, and trnL-F) support A. paucipinnatum as a distinct lineage, forming a sister relationship with a clade containing A. lepturus and A. contiguum. The combination of morphological and molecular evidence supports the recognition of this new taxon. Ecological notes, geographic distribution, and a comparison with related species are also provided.
["Asplenium aethiopicum clade"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Chrysosplenium ningqiangense (Saxifragaceae), a new species from Shaanxi Province, China
Chrysosplenium ningqiangense (Saxifragaceae) is described as a new species discovered in Hanshuiyuan Forest Park, Ningqiang County, Shaanxi Province, China. Morphologically, it resembles C. serreanum, C. alternifolium and C. japonicum, but can be distinguished by its leaf shape, yellow and loose inflorescences, absence of stolons, bulbils or bulbs at the stem base, and reddish-brown seeds with a tessellate and papillate surface. Phylogenetic analyses, based on ITS and cpDNA sequences, indicate that C. ningqiangense clusters with C. hydrocotylifolium, C. guangxiense, C. macrophyllum and C. zhangjiajieense. Although these species differ in morphological characteristics, phylogenetic evidence confirms C. ningqiangense as a distinct species within the subgenus Gamosplenium.
["Chrysosplenium"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Astragalus wuqiaensis (Fabaceae, Papilionoideae, Astragaleae), a new species from Xinjiang, China
During an extensive botanical survey in Ulugqat Township, Wuqia County, Xinjiang, China—a region along the country’s western border that remains significantly understudied—Astragalus wuqiaensis, a new species in Astragalus sect. Cenantrum (Fabaceae) was discovered. This perennial herb is characterized by its free stipules, yellow flowers, lax racemes, a long-stipitate ovary, and membranous fruit valves, aligning with the diagnostic features of sect. Cenantrum and supporting its placement therein. It differs from other sect. Cenantrum members by its markedly smaller leaflets (2–8 mm × 2–5 mm). Phylogenetic analysis of nrITS sequences provides robust support for its sectional affiliation (BS = 94%, PP = 1). A detailed morphological description, diagnostic illustrations, and habitat information are provided to confirm its novelty.
["Astragalus"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis"]

Petrocodon dahuaensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from the limestone area of Guangxi, China
Petrocodon dahuaensis, a new species from a limestone area of Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to P. asterostriatus but differs in its leaf blade, cordate to subrounded, margin crenate to serrate; bracts, bracteoles, and calyx smaller; corolla purple, base straight to slightly inflated; filaments purple; and style densely glandular-puberulent. Molecular evidence also supports its close relationship with P. asterostriatus. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the provisional conservation status of P. dahuaensis is assessed as Data Deficient (DD).
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Coptis wawushanensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Based on morphological and plastid data, Coptis wawushanensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from Hongya, Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. Phylogenetic analyses (Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference) recover C. wawushanensis as sister to C. huanjiangensis with strong support, and place them in a well-supported clade including C. deltoidea and C. omeiensis. Morphologically, the new species most closely resembles C. omeiensis, but differs by an ovate leaf blade (vs. lanceolate to narrowly ovate), a central leaf segment 1.5–2.5× as long as the lateral segments (vs. 3–3.5×), shorter scapes (5–8 cm vs. 15–27 cm), and well-developed stolons (vs. absent). It is further distinguished from its sister species C. huanjiangensis by leaf blade shape (ovate vs. ovate-triangular), shorter scapes (5–8 cm vs. 20–32 cm), and the presence of stolons (vs. absent). An identification key to the new species and its closest relatives is provided, and its distribution and habitat are documented.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Bamboo (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) from coastal, southern Vietnam
A newly discovered species of the paleotropical woody bamboo subtribe Bambusinae (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), Cochinchinochloa salta V.T. Tran, from coastal areas of Phu Yen Province, South-Central Vietnam, is described and illustrated. Based on vegetative and reproductive characters, Cochinchinochloa salta shares characters with Cochinchinochloa braiana, but differs from it by having nodes of leafy branches with a thin swollen patella, bud elliptic, the culm leaf blade base slightly protruding, auricles curved and small, and nucoid caryopsis oblique with a relatively thick pericarp.
["Bambusoideae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

An updated checklist of Lysionotus (Gesneriaceae) and two new species from southwestern China
By reviewing the taxonomic history of Lysionotus, we provide an updated checklist of the species currently accepted in the genus. Currently, 39 species, one subspecies, and four varieties are recorded in the genus. For every species, subspecies, and variety, the scientific name along with the corresponding references is provided. In addition, two new species, Lysionotus purpureopunctatus and Lysionotus guiliangii, are described and illustrated. Lysionotus purpureopunctatus was discovered in Guizhou Province, China, while L. guiliangii was found in Yunnan Province, China. Lysionotus purpureopunctatus is similar to L. denticulosus and L. oblongifolius, and Lysionotus chingii is morphologically close to L. gracilis but can be clearly distinguished by morphological features.
["Lysionotus guiliangii"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Two new Meiogyne species from Malesia and new combinations in Meiogyne and Monoon (Annonaceae) in the Asia-Pacific region
Two new species of Meiogyne (Annonaceae) are described from Malesia based on morphological evidence and the results of a recent molecular phylogenetic study: Meiogyne saundersii from Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo, and Meiogyne stenophylla from New Guinea. Meiogyne saundersii is morphologically similar to M. cylindrocarpa but differs in its leaf apex (abruptly caudate vs. acute, rarely shortly acuminate) and inner petal corrugation (tentacular vs. weakly longitudinally grooved). Meiogyne stenophylla is unique in the genus in its extremely narrow leaves (< 2 cm wide) with an attenuate apex; it is also similar to M. cylindrocarpa but differs in its lanceolate (vs. broadly ovate) petals and weakly warty (vs. weakly longitudinally grooved) outgrowth on the adaxial surface of the inner petals. In addition, two new combinations are proposed, Meiogyne wilsonii and Monoon papuanum, based on the results of the most recent molecular phylogeny of Meiogyne and related genera.
["Annonaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Primulina acutiloba (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Northwest Guangxi, China
A new species of Gesneriaceae, Primulina acutiloba C.Xiong, J.X.Fu & F.Wen, from the limestone karsts of Northwest Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it resembles Pri. pingguoensis H.S.Ma & B.Pan and Pri. pseudoeburnea (D.Fang & W.T.Wang) Mich. Möller & A. Weber in corolla shape and coloration, particularly in the presence of purple stripes extending from the throat to the lobes. However, it can be readily distinguished by a combination of characters, including the shape of the leaf blades, bracts, and calyx lobes, the length of the peduncle and pistil, and the height of the disc. Currently, only a single population is known from the type locality, comprising approximately 60–80 mature individuals. Following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the species is provisionally assessed as Endangered (EN C2 b).
["Baise"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Gentiana daofuensis (Gentianaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Gentiana daofuensis, a new species of the family Gentianaceae, is described and illustrated here. Currently, this species is known only from Daofu County, Sichuan Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on chloroplast genome data indicate that it belongs to G. section Chondrophyllae s.l. Morphologically and genetically, it is closely related to G. crassuloides but can be clearly distinguished from the latter by its shorter calyx and pale blue-purple corolla with numerous dark blue short stripes or spots.
["Chloroplast genome"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Descriptions of a new species, validation of a name, and elevation of a variety in Iris (Iridaceae) from China
Iris cariciformis Z.Z.Zhang & G.X.Zhang, sp. nov. from China is described and illustrated. This species grows on cliff faces or open slopes in the central Qinling Mountains. Morphologically, I. cariciformis is similar to I. dabashanensis but can be distinguished by its longer perianth tube and ellipsoidal capsules with a long beak. Furthermore, this study facilitates the valid publication of Iris fujianensis. Phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast DNA sequences confirms the placement of the former within I. series Chinenses, while the latter is inferred as sister to I. speculatrix. Simultaneously, a new combination, Iris valida (S.S.Chien) Z.Z.Zhang, H.T.Li & T.Y.Zuo, comb. et stat. nov., is proposed.
["Chloroplast genome"]
["Bioactive natural compounds", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Passiflora agudeloi (Passifloraceae, subgenus Decaloba): A new endemic species from cloud forests in the Central Cordillera of the Colombian Andes
Passiflora agudeloi is herein recognised as a distinct species, based on a unique combination of vegetative, floral and seed characters. It differs from morphologically related species with smaller vegetative and floral structures, such as P. hyacinthiflora and P. bicuspidata, by its larger leaves and flowers. Unlike P. trinervia, which exhibits a hypanthium exceeding 10 cm in length, P. agudeloi possesses a shorter hypanthium (0.4–0.5 cm). It can be separated from P. sierrae by the absence of foliar nectaries and by its longer petioles and non-pendent flowers. The new species is clearly distinct from closely-related species P. azeroana in many key characters, including flower size and colouration, length and pigmentation of petioles, peduncles and stipules, shape and distribution of laminar glands, as well as seed morphology and ornamentation. Its preliminary conservation assessment, categorised as Critically Endangered (CR) under the IUCN Criteria, underscores the urgent need to implement both in situ and ex situ conservation strategies to ensure its long-term survival.
["Medicinal Plant Extracts Effects", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Growth and nutrition in plants"]

Solenopsis sphaciotica (Campanulaceae) a new species from Crete
A new species of Solenopsis (Campanulaceae), S. sphaciotica, is described and illustrated from Crete, Greece. Morphologically, it shows close affinities with S. gutermannii by having a small size, annual habit and rosulate leaves. Although it was previously confused with S. minuta due to similarities in habit and some flower traits, several relevant morphological features clearly distinguish it from the latter. Furthermore, while it shares the annual life form, rosulate leaves and corolla shape with S. antiphonitis, it is also well differentiated from that species. This study provides a comprehensive examination of the species’ morphology, seed coat and pollen micro-sculpturing, ecology, distribution, conservation status and taxonomic relationships.
["Lobelioideae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and animal studies"]

Morphological and molecular characterization of Halamphora lukasiewiczii sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Amphipleuraceae), a new extremophilic diatom from petroleum seeps in the Polish Carpathians
Crude oil is toxic in high concentrations. However, several microalgae are able to proliferate in these extreme environments. In this study, we describe diatoms in natural oil seeps in the Polish Carpathians. Only two species were found: Halamphora lukasiewiczii sp. nov. and Navicula salinarum. Cultures were established and characterized using morphological, and molecular data based on the rbcL gene with secondary support from SSU rRNA sequences. Halamphora lukasiewiczii sp. nov. was examined using light, fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy. This new species is closely related to Halamphora aponina, H. angustiformis, H. borealis, H. kenderoviana, H. witkowskii, and H. margalefii var. lacustris. It is distinguished by small, dorsiventral valves (8.0–22.5 µm long, 3.0–5.0 µm wide) with exceptionally dense ventral striation (approximately 55 by 10 µm), the highest among related taxa. The H-shaped chloroplast is located ventrally, with lobes extending below the valves and forming a characteristic U- to V-shaped outline in apical view. In molecular phylogeny, Halamphora lukasiewiczii sp. nov. is closely related to H. margalefii, differing by 13 base pairs for a length of 1288 bp in the rbcL gene sequence of H. lukasiewiczii SZCZ MR2353. The DNA sequences of the inland Polish strain of Navicula salinarum showed low genetic divergence from the available sequences from Chinese coastal waters. The adaptations that allow Halamphora lukasiewiczii sp. nov. and Navicula salinarum to proliferate in this extreme environment require further investigation.
["Benthic diatom"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Algal biology and biofuel production", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Radula rheophila, a new species of Radula (Radulaceae) from Thailand and Brunei Darussalam
During a revision of Radulaceae in Southeast Asia, an undescribed species of the genus Radula was discovered from Thailand and Brunei Darussalam. Morphological characters were examined from fresh and herbarium specimens using stereo and compound microscopes. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted based on six chloroplast markers (atpB–rbcL, psbT–psbH, psbA–trnH, rps4, trnG, and trnL–F) using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference approaches. Radula rheophila is described and illustrated as a new species from peninsular Thailand and Brunei Darussalam. The new species is characterized by female bracts usually in 2 or 2.5 pairs unequal pairs; longitudinally rectangular or ligulate leaf lobules when large, broadly transversely rhombic or rectangular when small, 1/3–2/5 the length of the lobe; ovate to broadly ovate leaf lobes with broadly obtuse to rounded apices and entire margins; finely botryoidal oil bodies (2–3 per cell); and stems with thickened exterior cortical walls and thin-walled interior cortical and medullary cells thickened at the corners by concave trigones. Phylogenetic analyses strongly support its placement within Radula subg. Odontoradula. The discovery of R. rheophila enhances understanding of morphological variation and phylogenetic relationships within Radula, highlighting the significance of integrative taxonomy for uncovering tropical bryophyte diversity.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Morphological variation in the Rhododendron pseudochrysanthum Hayata (Ericales, Ericaceae) species complex from Taiwan
Our study examines the morphological and statistical differentiation within the Rhododendron pseudochrysanthum species complex through comparative analyses of macro- and micro-morphological characters. Using significance testing and cluster analysis, our results demonstrate that R. pseudochrysanthum Hayata ssp. morii (Hayata) Yamazaki var. taitunense Yamazaki is distinct from other members of the complex, namely R. morii Hayata, R. pseudochrysanthum Hayata, and R. hyperythrum Hayata. This taxon is characterized by glabrous mature leaves with revolute margins, larger flower buds with an elongated conical shape, larger pollen and seed sizes, and distinct pollen and seed morphology. Furthermore, R. pseudochrysanthum ssp. morii var. taitunense exhibits a restricted and localized distribution, occurring exclusively in low-elevation mountainous areas of Northern Taiwan. Overall, our results indicate that this taxon has undergone clear morphological differentiation from other taxa within the R. pseudochrysanthum species complex.
["Flower buds"]
["Bioactive Natural Diterpenoids Research", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Commemorating a conservation trifecta: Three new species of Glossoloma (Gesneriaceae) honoring a donor, a family of forest stewards, and a conservation visionary
During a 2016 field course in the Cerro Candelaria Reserve in the Pastaza Valley on the eastern slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes, three new species of Glossoloma (Gesneriaceae) were discovered along a single trail in one day. All three species are nomadic climbers, contrasting with the more typical subshrub habit in the genus. They are named in honor of three stakeholders from diverse backgrounds who collaborated to conserve one of the last remnants of Andean forests in the Pastaza Valley. The specific epithets commemorate their contributions to protecting these rapidly disappearing forests. The new species are Glossoloma jostii J.L.Clark, sp. nov., G. puroanum J.L.Clark, sp. nov., and G. recaldeorum J.L.Clark, sp. nov.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

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

A commented checklist and key for the genus Carex (Cyperaceae) in Peru
Carex is one of the most species-rich genera of vascular plants worldwide and it is a dominant element in cold and temperate regions. However, its diversity in South America is still less understood than in other areas of the World. In Peru, the genus is a key component of high Andean grasslands and wetlands, yet the last comprehensive taxonomic treatment dates back to 1936 when only 18 species were recognised. Subsequent checklists increased the number to 25, but current estimates remained incomplete and largely based on outdated identifications. Here, we present a taxonomic update of Carex in Peru, based on extensive fieldwork, herbarium studies across major Peruvian and international collections, literature review and complementary records from citizen-science platforms. Our study documents 56 species, including six strict endemics and three subendemics, with Cajamarca emerging as the richest Department (29 species). Four species are here confirmed for Peru for the first time. We provide an identification key in English and Spanish and updated distribution maps for all species, as well as a preliminary conservation assessment for 24 rare or endemic taxa using IUCN Criteria. Despite its ecological relevance, Carex remains understudied in Peru, with many species overlooked due to collecting biases, inconspicuous morphology and geographic barriers. Our findings call for integrative taxonomic, ecological and conservation studies to improve the knowledge on Andean Carex and secure their long-term preservation under accelerating climate change.
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Heteropolygonatum xishuiense (Asparagaceae, Convallarioideae, Polygonateae), a new species from Danxia cliffs in Guizhou, China
Heteropolygonatum xishuiense (Asparagaceae, Convallarioideae, Polygonateae), a new microendemic species from southwest China, is described and illustrated based on morphological comparisons and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Phylogenetic analyses based on the chloroplast genome indicate that this new species is sister to H. ogisui. Morphologically, H. xishuiense is similar to H. ginfushanicum and H. ogisui.
["Danxia landform"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

Synopsis of the genus Raphia P. Beauv. (Arecaceae, Calamoideae) in the Republic of the Congo
Raphia is a genus of palm belonging to the family Arecaceae composed of 22 species. Recent floral treatments of the genus have been published for the Central African region but data on species from the Republic of the Congo is lacking. In addition, it has been suggested in those treatments that more data should be collected in the field to refine the IUCN assessments of Raphia species such as R. matombe and R. rostrata. Taxonomically, species delineations and distribution ranges are still somewhat incompletely known for R. hookeri, R. laurentii, R. monbuttorum and R. sese. Thus, this paper aims to provide new data about Raphia species occurring in the Republic of the Congo and addresses some of the knowledge gaps in the genus. We propose a new measurement point for the diameter of the petiole that we refer to as DP30 to standardize comparison within the genus. We collected herbarium specimens and took high-quality photographs in nine departments of the Republic of the Congo. We measured leaves and leaflets on mature individuals bearing either inflorescences, infructescences, or both. Information on the use of materials from Raphia species is presented. We record seven Raphia species from the country: R. gentiliana, R. hookeri, R. laurentii, R. matombe, R. regalis, R. rostrata and R. textilis. The first two species have a wide distribution range across the country whereas R. matombe is only recorded in two departments and R. regalis, R. rostrata and R. textilis are recorded in only one department. R. hookeri and R. laurentii are the only two species which form large mono-dominant stands in swamps in the Republic of the Congo. We found that different parts of the Raphia species plants are used for different purposes. The petiole and leaflets are used in the construction of buildings. The pith is used to make decorative objects and toys. The epidermis of the young leaflets is used to make raffia loincloths and traditional dance skirts. The sap is tapped to make Raphia wine. Individuals of some Raphia species are cut down, wounded, and left to decay to harvest the larvae of Rhynchophorus cf. phoenicis (Fabricius, 1801) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae). More observations and collections from the field are needed for a better understanding of this genus in Africa.
["Congo River Basin"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A key to the Sabdariffa scotellii (Baker f.) Mwachala & R.L.Barrett group (Malvaceae, Hibisceae) in West Africa with descriptions of two new, threatened species from bowal habitats in the Republic of Guinea
Two species new to science from the Republic of Guinea, West Africa are placed in the informal Sabdariffa scotellii group within Sabdariffa (formerly Hibiscus sect. Furcaria, Malvaceae). The group is characterized by the combination of entire (not bifurcate) involucellar bracts, non-aculeate stems, 3–5-lobed leaves abaxially with 1 or usually 3 nectar glands at the base of the midrib and flanking lateral nerves. An identification key to the four species of the group is presented. The new species are described in this paper as Sabdariffa sangaredi Thiam & Cheek, sp. nov. (from bauxitic low altitude bowal in the Sangaredi area) and Sabdariffa kounounkan Cheek, sp. nov. (from montane sandstone bowal on the Kounounkan table mountain). Their taxonomic affinities and ecology are discussed. Both species are assessed as Critically Endangered using the IUCN 2012 standard. We also discuss other recently described endemics of sandstone habitats in Guinea.
["Hibiscus Plant Research Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Impatiens ngariensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Xizang, China
A new species, Impatiens ngariensis (Balsaminaceae) from western Xizang, China, is described in this study. Morphological and phylogenetic evidence supports its taxonomic placement within I. sect. Racemosae. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that I. ngariensis forms a clade with I. thomsonii, I. bomiensis, I. fragicolor, I. edgeworthii and I. glandulifera. Morphologically, the new species closely resembles I. sulcata in petiole with 2 basal glands, subcorymbose-racemose inflorescences, lateral sepals ovate, dorsal petal suborbicular and capsule linear, but can be distinguished by several key characteristics, including a suborbicular dorsal petal with a cordate base and a shorter spur.
["Impatiens"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Taxonomic revision of the neophyte nightshades (Solanum, Solanaceae) in European Russia and the North Caucasus
The alien Solanum species in European Russia and the North Caucasus have never been revised. Over the past three decades, several exotic species have been found in various parts of the area, but many of them were identified incorrectly or reported using outdated taxonomy. We detailed the distribution data for these species, verified and corrected published reports, and provided updated diagnostic characters and a new identification key. Here, we report and discuss the records and residence status of nine species: S. elaeagnifolium, S. emulans, S. heterodoxum, S. nitidibaccatum, S. rostratum, S. scabrum, S. sisymbriifolium, S. triflorum, and S. villosum. One additional species, S. nigrum, appears to be an archeophyte widely distributed in both regions, except the Arctic zone. Solanum villosum, previously treated as several segregate taxa (S. alatum, S. luteum, S. transcaucasicum, S. zelenetzkii), was first collected in the early 20th century in the North Caucasus, whereas its collections from European Russia are mostly from the late 20th century. Solanum rostratum is naturalized in the plains of the North Caucasus and the Lower Volga Region. It has also been found several times in the forest and forest-steppe zones, with one new record reported here. Solanum triflorum is naturalized and rapidly spreading in the Lower Volga and the eastern North Caucasus; it is recorded here as a new casual alien in Kazakhstan. Solanum nitidibaccatum is reported for the first time from several administrative units and is considered naturalized at least in Central Russia. The putative presence of its close relative, S. sarrachoides from South America, which is a naturalized alien in some parts of Europe, is also discussed. At present, the remaining species are considered casual aliens. Solanum scabrum has escaped from cultivation, whereas the other species have arrived with contaminated grain imported from North America.
["Alien plants"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Primula daguanensis (Primulaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Primula daguanensis W.B.Ju, B.Xu & J.Ru is described and illustrated as a new species from Daguan County, Yunnan Province, China. It is assigned to the Primula sect. Petiolares subsect. Davidii based on its conspicuous bud scales, which are membranous and persistent at anthesis, and its coriaceous, efarinose leaves. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) shows it to be closely related to P. tridentifera of subsect. Petiolares, and morphological comparisons support its recognition as a distinct new species. It resembles P. epilosa, P. tridentifera, and P. bergenioides but can be distinguished by the following characters: petiole 1.0–4.5 cm long; leaves efarinose and obovate to oblanceolate, with undulate-dentate margins; abaxial reticulate veins inconspicuous, lateral veins 5–7 pairs; calyx parted to one-third, with broadly triangular lobes; and corolla lobes truncate at the apex, dentate, and bearing an annulus. P. daguanensis is currently known only from the collection locality, and its conservation status is assessed as Data Deficient (DD) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Lysimachia yulongensis (Primulaceae), a new species in Lysimachia sect. Pumilae from Yunnan, China
Lysimachia yulongensis Z.K.Wu & Ming Y.Sheng, a new species of Primulaceae from Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphological evidence places L. yulongensis within Lysimachia sect. Pumilae, which is distinguished by dwarf plants with prostrate or nearly erect habits, few flowers clustered at the stem apex or solitary in the leaf axils near the apex, lanceolate sepals, elliptical and dorsifixed anthers and styles approximately as long as the stamens. The new species is characterised by a strongly stoloniferous growth habit, with creeping stems serving a vegetative function as stolon and terminating in leaf rosettes during fruiting; leaves that are narrowly elliptic to oblanceolate or spatulate; and flowers solitary in the leaf axils along obliquely ascending stems. Information on the distribution, phenology and conservation status of the new species is also provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Euonymus maotaiensis M.T.An & Xu Wu, sp. nov., a new species of Euonymus (Celastraceae) from southwest China
This paper describes a new species of the genus Euonymus from Guizhou Province in southwestern China, Euonymus maotaiensis. The new species is morphologically similar to E. chloranthoides but can be distinguished by several key characteristics: broadly lanceolate leaves (as opposed to elliptic to oblong-elliptic), longer petioles (5–12 mm vs. 1–2 mm), longer peduncles (4–9 cm vs. 1–2 cm), 4- or 5-merous flowers (vs. strictly 5-merous), suborbicular petals with the upper half completely recurved abaxially (vs. planar petals), and indehiscent, 4–5 shallowly sulcate capsules (vs. 5-lobed capsules dehiscent to near the midpoint). These morphological differences are further supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses.
["Celastraceae"]
["Natural Compounds in Disease Treatment", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Pharmacological Effects of Medicinal Plants"]

Vincetoxicum samothracicum (Apocynaceae), a new species from Mt. Saos, Samothraki Island, Greece
Samothraki, an island of the North Aegean region of Greece, hosts a remarkable flora that includes seventeen endemics restricted to its boundaries and several species of phytogeographical importance. A floristic investigation of the upper parts of the island, on Mt. Saos, revealed populations of a reddish-purple-flowered Vincetoxicum morphologically distinct from any species known from Greece and neighboring countries. This new species, named Vincetoxicum samothracicum, is apparently related to a group of east-Mediterranean species with corona lobes free almost to the base, but it differs from all of them in the characters of the flowers, fruits, and indumentum. Investigation of an internal transcribed spacer (ITS) Vincetoxicum phylogeny did not place the new species in the same monophyletic group as its presumed morphological relatives. V. samothracicum is a local species, but it is currently assigned to the IUCN category LC.
["Asclepiadoideae"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Catalpa lutea (Bignoniaceae), a new species from north, central, and east China
Catalpa lutea J.H.Wang, W.J.Ma & Z.Y.Li, a new species of Bignoniaceae from north, central, and east China, is described and illustrated. By combining recent morphological comparisons with phylogenetic analyses of nuclear single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the chloroplast genome, we demonstrate that C. lutea is readily distinguishable from its congeners, including Catalpa fargesii Bureau and other Chinese species of section Catalpa. A detailed morphological description, illustrations, and molecular data are provided. While conforming to sect. Catalpa in its typically ovate leaf blades, didynamous stamens, and five corolla lobes, C. lutea is unequivocally distinguished by its narrowly ovate crown, yellow heartwood, bright yellow anthers, filaments with purple dots, conspicuously thickened deep purple striations within the corolla tube, and floral spots exceeding 1 mm in diameter. Additional diagnostic characters include young foliage frequently flushed purple, mature leaves green with a purple tinge on occasion, and 3–4 nectaries at the leaf axils on the abaxial surface. The conservation status of this species is assessed as “Data Deficient” (DD) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Bignoniaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

Fourteen new species of the spider genus Psiloderces Simon, 1892 from Southeast Asia (Araneae, Psilodercidae)
The genus Psiloderces Simon, 1892 is the second largest genus of Psilodercidae, a family restricted to Asia, occurring from East India to the Philippines. Fourteen new species of Psiloderces from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam are described: P. heise sp. nov. (♂♀), P. gawanaensis sp. nov. (♂♀), P. bontocensis sp. nov. (♀), P. cuyapoensis sp. nov. (♂♀), P. xichang sp. nov. (♂♀), P. cattienensis sp. nov. (♂♀), P. pingguo sp. nov. (♂♀), P. palopoensis sp. nov. (♂♀), P. penajamensis sp. nov. (♂), P. grohotensis sp. nov. (♂♀), P. bangkiraiensis sp. nov. (♂♀), P. bolang sp. nov. (♂♀), P. wangou sp. nov. (♂♀), and P. malinoensis sp. nov. (♂♀). Types are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing.

A genus in disguise. Revision of the genus Salcedia Fairmaire, 1899 with descriptions of nine new species (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Scaritinae, Salcediini)
This monograph on the genus Salcedia Fairmaire, 1899 revises the nine described species S. perrieri Fairmaire, 1899, S. coquilhati Alluaud, 1932, S. elongata Alluaud, 1932, S. africana (Britton, 1947), S. schoutedeni Alluaud, 1930, S. putzeysi (Oberthür, 1883), S. miranda (Andrewes, 1920), and S. parallela Baehr, 1998. The following nine new species are described: S. unifoveata sp. nov., S. faillei sp. nov., S. lukulua sp. nov., S. matsumotoi sp. nov., S. utetea sp. nov., S. robusta sp. nov., S. procera sp. nov., S. tuberculata sp. nov., and S. baroensis sp. nov. Photographs of the habitus and male and female genitals are provided for all species. An identification key to the species is given. Morphological characteristics of the genus are described and illustrated. Zoogeography of the group is discussed and distribution records from Africa are displayed on a map. Available biological data are summarised.

Altitudinal and seasonal distribution of butterflies (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) in Cerro Bufa El Diente, Tamaulipas, Mexico
Butterflies are one of the most recognized and useful groups for the monitoring and establishment of important conservation areas and management policies. In the present study, we estimate the richness and diversity, as well as the association value of submontane scrub, oak forest, and cloud forest species at Cerro Bufa El Diente, within the Sierra de San Carlos priority land region, located in the Central-western region of Tamaulipas, Mexico. Three sampling sites were established based on criteria of vegetation distribution per altitudinal floor. One site for each altitudinal floor and vegetation type. Sampling was carried out in permanent transects on a monthly basis at each site, using an aerial entomological net and ten Van Someren-Rydon traps, during four sampling periods: early dry season, late dry season, early wet season and late wet season. In total, 7,611 specimens belonging to six families, 20 subfamilies, 32 tribes, 148 genera and 243 species of the study area were collected. Nymphalidae was the most abundant family with 3,454 specimens, representing 45.38% of total abundance in the study area. Lower abundance was recorded in Hesperiidae (19.17%), Pieridae (16.41%), Lycaenidae (10.17%), Papilionidae (5.12%), and finally Riodinidae (3.74%). The highest species richness was presented in the family Hesperiidae with 34.57% of the total obtained species followed by Nymphalidae (30.45%), Lycaenidae (15.23%), Pieridae (9.88%), Papilionidae (5.76%), and Riodinidae (4.12%). Twenty-seven species were categorized as abundant, these species, Anaea aidea (Guérin-Méneville, 1844), Libytheana carinenta larvata (Strecker, 1878), Pyrgus oileus (Linnaeus, 1767), Mestra amymone (Ménétriés, 1857) and Phoebis agarithe agarithe (Boisduval, 1836) presented the highest number of specimens. Sixty-five species were considered common, constituting 41.73% of the total number of butterflies, 63 frequent (9.76% of the total abundance), 55 limited (2.54%) and 33 rare (0.43%). The greatest number of specimens and species, as well as alpha diversity, were presented on the lowest altitudinal floor, made up of submontane scrub, and decreased significantly with increasing altitude. According to the cluster analysis, low and intermediate altitude sites constitute an area of distribution of species that prefer tropical conditions, while the third-floor site forms an independent group of high mountain species. The greatest abundance and richness of species, as well as alpha diversity, was obtained during the last wet season, decreasing significantly towards the early dry season. Moreover, through the use of the association value, 19 species were designated as indicators, three for the last altitudinal floor, three for the intermediate and 13 for the first. The present work represents the first report of the altitudinal variation in richness, abundance and diversity of butterflies in the northeast of Mexico. These results highlight the importance of the conservation of this heterogeneous habitat and establish reference data for the diurnal Lepidoptera fauna of the region.
["Diurnal Lepidoptera"]

A new species of Onitis Fabricius, 1798 from south-eastern Africa (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae, Onitini)
Onitis albertcollarti sp. nov. is described and illustrated. The new species is closely related to and occurs sympatrically with O. lycophron Klug, 1855.
["Democratic Republic of the Congo"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Four new species and seven new records of Promalactis Meyrick, 1908 (Lepidoptera, Oecophoridae) from Laos
The genus Promalactis Meyrick, 1908 is recorded for the first time from Laos in mainland Southeast Asia and four new species are described: P. crassa sp. nov., P. retusa sp. nov., P. senispina sp. nov., and P. uniclavata sp. nov. Additionally, seven species are newly reported from the country: P. albisquama Kim & Park, P. apicisetifera Du & Wang, P. bitrigona Kim & Park, P. zolotuhini Lvovsky, P. parasuzukiella Wang, P. suzukiella (Matsumura), and P. spiraliola Kim. Distributional data and diagnoses and/or descriptions for all species in Laos are provided, along with illustrations of adults and genitalia.
["First record of genus"]

A new leafmining pest of guava: Hesperolyra guajavifoliae sp. nov., with comments on the diagnostics of the endemic Neotropical genus Hesperolyra van Nieukerken (Lepidoptera, Nepticulidae)
We describe a new pest of guava (Psidium guajava L.), Hesperolyra guajavifoliae Stonis & Vargas, sp. nov., that was recently discovered in western Colombia. Hesperolyra van Nieukerken is a small, Neotropical genus of pygmy moths (Nepticulidae). We re-examine and document the complex morphology of the male genitalia of the generic type species, H. diskusi (Puplesis & Robinson). We discuss the diagnostics and composition of the genus and provide a simple pictorial differentiation scheme for all currently known representatives of the genus. The new species is illustrated with photographs of the adults, some of the immature stages, male and female genitalia, and leaf mines. A link to the COI barcodes of H. guajavifoliae sp. nov. is provided and the relationship of Hesperolyra to other genera is discussed.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Unloved, paraphyletic or misplaced: new genera and species of small to minute lucinid bivalves and their relationships (Bivalvia, Lucinidae)
Species identified as Pillucina are paraphyletic in molecular analyses and a new generic name, Rugalucina, is introduced for a complex of three similar species Rugalucina angela from the northern Indian Ocean and Red Sea, R. vietnamica from South East Asia, and R. munda from northern and north eastern Australia. Lucina concinna from the Red Sea, previously synonymised with P. vietnamica/angela is recognised as a Rugalucina-like species but with a very short anterior adductor scar. Divaricella cypselis from Karachi is similarly now recognised as a distinct species, probably related to Rugalucina but with oblique commarginal sculpture and a short adductor scar. A group of minute Indo-West Pacific lucinids with highly unusual multi-cuspate lateral teeth and previously classified as Pillucina are separated under a new genus Pusillolucina gen. nov., with the description of three new species P. arabica, P. africana, and P. biritika from the Arabian Gulf, Mozambique, and Madagascar. Finally, a new genus, Notocina, is introduced for the small southern Atlantic species, Epicodakia falklandica, shown in molecular analyses to be misplaced at subfamily level and now classified in Lucininae and not Codakiinae with Epicodakia.
["bivalves"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Nienna chukotka sp. nov. (Protura, Acerentomidae, Nipponentominae) from the Arctic region, with a key to species of the genus
A new species of Nienna was collected in the most northern part of the Palearctic, inside the Arctic Circle. In possessing seta Pc on tergite VII and sternites VI–VII and a very long foretarsal sensillum a, Nienna chukotka sp. nov. is more similar to Alaskaentomon species than to the other Nienna species distributed in southern Siberia and northern China. The new species differs from nearly all other members of Nipponentominae in possessing five anterior setae on tergite VII and in the presence of posterolateral pores on tergite I, as in members of Hesperentomon (Hesperentomidae). An identification key to Nienna species is provided.

DNA barcoding reveals a species group of the genus Campiglossa (Diptera, Tephritidae, Tephritinae) with recognition of a new species from East Asia and previously unknown females of Campiglossa coei (Hardy)
While analyzing DNA barcodes of all the Korean and some East Asian tephritid species in conjunction with the barcode sequences available from BOLD Systems (www.boldsystems.org), the large and taxonomically enigmatic genus Campiglossa was recovered as a monophyletic clade, together with the genera Dioxyna and Homoeotricha, which are here synonymized for that reason. Ten major lineages are also recognized within the Campiglossa clade: producta group, loewiana group, sororcula group, irrorata group, achyrophori group, difficilis group, luxorientis group, magniceps group, arisanica group, and misella group. Here, more detailed taxonomic accounts are provided for the misella group, including four DNA analysis-recovered members: C. coei, C. misella, C. paramelaena sp. nov., and C. melaena. A single morphological synapomorphy is proposed for this species group: the presence of a large mid-anterior dark wing marking in males with associated structural modification (more apically positioned crossvein R-M than in females). Based on the morphological characteristics, two presumptive members that are only known from male specimens are further recognized: C. pishanica and C. propria from China. A full description of C. paramelaena sp. nov., and a redescription of C. coei, for which only males were previously known, are provided. For all the included species, a taxonomic key, diagnoses, and photographs to aid their accurate identification are given. Finally, C. favillacea is synonymized with C. coei and C. roscida with C. misella, and C. coei and C. pishanica resurrected from the synonymy of C. misella.
["Campiglossa"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant and animal studies"]

Description of Seba longimera sp. nov. from hydrothermal vents in the Okinawa Trough, Northwest Pacific (Amphipoda, Amphilochoidea, Sebidae)
Seba longimera sp. nov., of the family Sebidae Walker, 1908, is described from hydrothermal vents in Okinawa Trough. Other two congenic species, S. bathybia Larsen, 2007 and S. profundus Shaw, 1989, are also reported from these hydrothermal vents, but the new species can be readily distinguished from them in having the merus of pereopods 5 and 6 extending beyond distal margin of carpus, coxa 4 smaller than coxae 2 and 3, and coxa 5 with the posterior lobe larger than the anterior one, rather than equilobate.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Resolving species boundaries in the Atlanta brunnea species group (Gastropoda, Pterotracheoidea)
Atlantid heteropods are a family of holoplanktonic marine gastropods that occur primarily in tropical and subtropical latitudes. Atlantids bear a delicate aragonitic shell (<14 mm) and live in the upper ocean, where ocean acidification and ocean warming have a pronounced effect. Therefore, atlantids are likely to be sensitive to these ocean changes. However, we lack sufficiently detailed information on atlantid taxonomy and biogeography, which is needed to gain a deeper understanding of the consequences of a changing ocean. To date, atlantid taxonomy has mainly relied on morphometrics and shell ornamentation, but recent molecular work has highlighted hidden diversity. This study uses an integrated approach in a global analysis of biogeography, variation in shell morphology and molecular phylogenies based on three genes (CO1, 28S and 18S) to resolve the species boundaries within the Atlanta brunnea group. Results identify a new species, Atlanta vanderspoeli, from the Equatorial and South Pacific Ocean, and suggest that individuals of A. brunnea living in the Atlantic Ocean are an incipient species. Our results provide an important advance in atlantid taxonomy and will enable identification of these species in future studies of living and fossil plankton.
["Atlantidae"]

Review of the Camponotus kiesenwetteri group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in the Aegean with the description of a new species
Based on recently collected material, the Camponotus kiesenwetteri group is redefined, and its members known from the Aegean region are diagnosed. Camponotus schulzi sp. nov. is described from İzmir Province, Turkey. Camponotus nadimi Tohmé, 1969 syn. nov. is proposed as a junior synonym of Camponotus libanicus André, 1881 and Camponotus kiesenwetteri cyprius Emery, 1920 syn. nov. as a junior synonym of Camponotus kiesenwetteri (Roger, 1859). A key to workers of species of the C. kiesenwetteri group is provided. Niche modeling analyses are used to account for species habitat suitability across the Aegean region.
["Aegean Region"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

A study of the endohelminths of the European perch Perca fluviatilis L. from the central region of the Danube river basin in Slovakia
The European perch Perca fluviatilis L. serves as a host of different endohelminths of Trematoda, Cestoda, Nematoda, and Acanthocephala. Its natural range covers freshwater basins throughout much of Europe, including the Danube. Since information about endohelminths of European perch from this international river basin has been rather sporadic, the parasitological examinations of 700 perch from the central region of the Danube river basin in Slovakia were performed in October 2017 and April 2018. The larval stages of Triaenophorus nodulosus (Cestoda) were found in cysts located in the perch liver and adults of Proteocephalus percae (Cestoda) were isolated from the intestine. The larval stages of Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda) and metacercariae of Clinostomum complanatum (Trematoda), both potential causative agents of fish-borne zoonoses, were found in the musculature. Spatial and seasonal differences in the occurrence of currently detected helminths were discussed with data on biological and environmental conditions of particular sampling site.
["endoparasites"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Halal products and consumer behavior"]

Review of the Arabian Crematogaster Lund (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), synoptic list, distribution, and description of two new species from Oman and Saudi Arabia
The genus Crematogaster is one of the most species-rich and widespread groups of ants. Despite their often-high local abundance and important ecological interactions, the taxonomy of the genus is fragmentary and in great need of modern revisionary studies. As a first step towards a revision for the Arabian fauna of Crematogaster, a review of all known species with synoptic species accounts is provided. Seventeen species are recognized and illustrated from the Arabian Peninsula, of which two new species are described: C. jacindae Sharaf & Hita Garcia, sp. nov. from the Dhofar Governorate, Oman, and C. gryllsi Sharaf & Hita Garcia, sp. nov. from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) based on the worker caste. Crematogaster jacindae sp. nov. is easily separated from the remainder of the Arabian Crematogaster fauna due to its complete lack of propodeal spines, slit-shaped propodeal spiracles, and its distinct bicoloration, whereas C. gryllsi sp. nov. is readily distinguished by its unlobed postpetiolar dorsum. Furthermore, new country records are presented: C. acaciae Forel for the KSA and Yemen, and C. delagoensis Forel and C. jehovae Forel for the KSA C. antaris for Qatar, whereas C. luctans Forel is excluded from the Arabian fauna. In addition, on the basis of morphological examination of original type material, C. affabilis Forel is proposed as junior synonym of C. chiarinii Mayr, and C. striaticeps is elevated to species rank stat. nov. Furthermore, a new identification key for the Arabian species is provided, as well as distribution maps for all species.
["Arabian Peninsula"]

Review of the millipede genus Orthomorpha Bollman, 1893 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae) in Vietnam, with several new records and descriptions of two new species
The genus Orthomorpha is shown to currently be represented in Vietnam by ten species or varieties, including new records of O. arboricola (Attems, 1937), O. coarctata (de Saussure, 1860), O. rotundicollis (Attems, 1937) and O. scabra Jeekel, 1964, and two new species, O. caramel sp. nov. and O. vietnamica sp. nov. A key to all eight Orthomorpha species and two varieties known to occur in Vietnam is provided. Although the morphological characters that have been traditionally used for Orthomorpha taxonomy are here considered superior to molecular ones, molecular-based phylogenetic relationships and taxon assignments within the tribe Orthomorphini are provisionally analyzed using fragments of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) mitochondrial gene. The preferred phylograms, both rooted and unrooted, demonstrate the monophyly of the tribe Orthomorphini, but due to the special, uncertain or even controversial position of O. coarctata, which occurs closer to the genera Antheromorpha and Hylomus, the genus Orthomorpha in current usage appears to be polyphyletic. However, if O. coarctata is to be treated within the monotypic genus Asiomorpha, the monophyly of Orthomorpha becomes manifest. On the other hand, a cautious approach is followed to avoid descriptions of suspicious new taxa/species. Thus, solely because the average genetic distance between O. rodundicollis subrotundicollis var. nov. and O. rodundicollis, as well as that between O. scabra grandis var. nov. and O. scabra, are both found to be negligibly small, the statuses of the sympatric and closest yet morphologically different varieties are treated only as such, i.e., infrasubspecific categories. The apparent discord observed between morphological and molecular data is obviously due to only partial and single-gene topologies used, possibly also to hybridization already known to occur in some closely related and sympatric paradoxosomatid species or even genera.
["taxonomy"]

Taxonomic revision of the genus Machleida Fåhraeus, 1870 (Tenebrionidae, Pimeliinae, Asidini)
The taxonomic concept of the genus Machleida Fåhraeus, 1870 is tested and revised based on newly identified material. The following new species are described: Machleida banachi, M. flagstaffensis, M. tarskii, and M. zofiae Kamiński. Machleida capillosa Wilke, 1925 is considered as a junior subjective synonym of Asida devia Péringuey, 1899. Asida lecta Péringuey, 1899 (= Pseudomachla recurva Wilke, 1925) (transferred to Afrasida), Machleida nossibiana Fairmaire, 1897 (transferred to Scotinesthes), and Machleida tuberosa Wilke, 1925 (interpreted as incertae sedis in Asidini) are excluded from Machleida. An identification key for the species of the newly revised Machleida is provided. The present paper brings the total number of species within the genus to six (M. banachi sp. nov.; M. devia (Péringuey, 1899); M. flagstaffensis sp. nov.; M. nodulosa Fåhraeus, 1870; M. tarskii sp. nov.; M. zofiae Kamiński sp. nov.). The morphology of female terminalia (ovipositor and genital tubes) is described for the genus for the first time.
["Afrasida"]

Phenotypic diversity in an endangered freshwater fish Squalius microlepis (Actinopterygii, Leuciscidae)
Squalius microlepis was examined from recent and historical collections within the known range of the species with special emphasis on intraspecific variability and variations, and compared to its closest relative species S. tenellus (in total, 193 specimens; 33 absolute and 52 proportional measurements and ratios, and 12 counts including vertebrae). Squalius tenellus was perfectly differentiated in all statistical analyses and can be diagnosed by 76–95 (vs. 64–80) scales in lateral series, 68–83 (vs. 58–77) lateral-line scales, (17)18–20 (vs. 13–16(17)) scales above lateral line, and (7)8–10 (vs. 4–7) scales below lateral line. Squalius microlepis was morphologically heterogeneous, with two phenotypes readily distinguishable (phenotype 1 corresponding to S. microlepis s. str. as defined by its lectotype) by a combination of many characters; those contributing most to the discrimination were number of gill rakers, length of lower jaw (% interorbital width), and head length (% SL). Only phenotype 1 was found in the Ričina-Prološko Blato-Vrljika karst system; most of the specimens from the lower Matica and the Tihaljina-Trebižat karst system were identified as phenotype 2; the sample from karstic poljes near Vrgorac contained both phenotype 1 and 2, and individuals of intermediate morphology. As very limited molecular data exist on the two phenotypes of S. microlepis, we refrain from any taxonomic conclusions until new molecular approaches (and new markers) are used. We also report on a dramatic reduction of the area of distribution and abundance of S. microlepis in recent years.

A review of the Indonesian species of the family Signiphoridae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea), with description of three new species
The Indonesian species of the family Signiphoridae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) are revised. Three species of Chartocerus are described as new (Chartocerus kartiniae Polaszek & Schmidt, sp. nov., C. sumatrensis Schmidt & Polaszek, sp. nov., and C. javensis Schmidt & Ubaidillah, sp. nov.) and four species of Signiphora, viz., S. bennetti Woolley & Dal Molin, S. flavella Girault, S. perpauca Girault and S. bifasciata Ashmead, are diagnosed.
["chalcid wasps"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Five new species of Mydaea from China (Diptera, Muscidae)
Five new species of Mydaea are described from China, namely M. adhesipeda Xue, sp. nov., M. combiniseriata Xue, sp. nov., M. qingyuanensis Xue, sp. nov., M. quinquiseta Xue, sp. nov., M. wusuensis Xue, sp. nov., and an addendum to the key of the Mydaea in China is given.
["Calyptratae"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new species of Nebalia (Crustacea, Leptostraca) from a hydrothermal field in Kagoshima Bay, Japan
A new species of Leptostraca, Nebalia tagiri sp. nov. is described and illustrated. This species was sampled from 200 m depth at a hydrothermal field in Wakamiko Caldera of Kagoshima Bay, Japan. Nebalia tagiri sp. nov. is different from known Nebalia species as follows: rostral length 2.4 times as long as width; article 4 of antennule with 3–5 robust distal spines; antennular scale approximately twice as long as wide; article 3 of antenna with eight spines and nine spine-like setae along proximal half, two thin setae and six spine-like setae on external lateral face, six spines and four simple setae on distal margin; article 1 of second maxilla longer than article 2; article 2 of mandibular palp with two thin setae; exopod of pleopod 1 with 21 spines along lateral margin; furcal rami longer than combined length of pleonite 7 and telson; rounded denticles of pleonite 6 and 7; anal-plates ‘shoulder’ not distinct. Furthermore, this specimen is the first genus Nebalia found in the hydrothermal vent. The distribution and ecology of this new species is also discussed and a key to all species of Nebalia is provided.
["Hydrothermal vent"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Revision of the Neotropical hoverfly genus Peradon Reemer (Diptera, Syrphidae, Microdontinae)
The species of the Neotropical hoverfly genus Peradon Reemer, 2013 are revised, based on morphological characters with aid of mitochondrial DNA barcodes. The resulting number of valid species is increased to 31, of which the following seven are described as new: P. ballux Reemer, sp. nov., P. brevis Reemer, sp. nov., P. costaricensis Reemer, sp. nov., P. notialus Reemer, sp. nov., P. palpator Reemer, sp. nov., P. pompiloides Reemer, sp. nov., and P. surinamensis Reemer, sp. nov. Two new synonymies are established: Microdon langi Curran, 1925, syn. nov. and Microdon flavomarginatum Curran, 1925, syn. nov. are both junior synonyms of Mulio bidens Fabricius, 1805. A neotype is designated for Microdon diaphanus Sack, 1921. This neotype, which has been reared from an ant nest, also represents the first case of a larval record for this genus. In some species, most notably in P. bidens (Fabricius) and P. normalis (Curran), discrete and distinct colour morphs are recognized, with strongly differing colouration of wings and abdomen.
["COI barcodes"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

The tremendous diversity of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in Indonesia (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Material collected between 2010 and 2014 on the Indonesian islands of Sumatra, Bali, Sumba, Sumbawa, Sulawesi, and Seram unveiled the enormous diversity of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in this country. Five species were reported from Indonesia previously (L. fulmeki (Ulmer), L. obscurum (Ulmer), L. necopinatum (Müller-Liebenau), L. ulmeri (Müller-Liebenau), and L. boettgeri (Ulmer)); all were described from adults only and no species were previously known at larval stage. We identified 18 new species by integrative taxonomy using genetic distance (COI, Kimura-2-parameter) and morphology, and they are described and illustrated based on their larvae. Another species, L. multus (Müller-Liebenau) from Malaysia, was also found in Indonesia, increasing the total number of species in Indonesia to 24. Seven morpho-groups of species are proposed based on morphological characters and a key to the larvae of all species from Indonesia and adjacent countries is provided. The total number of Labiobaetis species worldwide is augmented to 123. The examination of the new species allowed us to slightly modify the generic attributes of the larvae. The interspecific K2P distances are usually between 11% and 24%, the intraspecific distances are usually between 0% and 3%. The remarkable richness of the genus in Indonesia is discussed.

New distributional records for sixteen Mordellidae species from the Western Palearctic (Insecta, Coleoptera, Mordellidae)
A list of 22 new distributional records is presented for 16 Mordellidae species from the Western Palearctic: Variimorda caprai (Franciscolo, 1951) (Montenegro); V. mendax Méquignon, 1946 (Montenegro); Mordellistena falsoparvula Ermisch, 1956 (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro); M. olympica Ermisch, 1965 (Cyprus, Montenegro); M. kraatzi Emery, 1876 (Morocco); M. longicornis Mulsant, 1856 (Morocco); M. dives Emery, 1876 (Kazakhstan); M. krujanensis Ermisch, 1963 (Montenegro); M. tarsata Mulsant, 1856 (Cyprus, North Macedonia); M. michalki Ermisch, 1956 (Kyrgyzstan); M. thuringiaca Ermisch, 1963 (Bulgaria, Montenegro, Slovakia, Spain); M. koelleri Ermisch, 1956 (Italy, Montenegro); Mordellistenula longipalpis Ermisch, 1965 (Montenegro); Mordellochroa milleri (Emery, 1876) (Italy); Dellamora palposa Normand, 1916 (Italy). Information about the distributional range is summarised for each species, and notes on habitat and host plants are also provided.
["Bionomy"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Muangnua arborea, a new semislug (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Helicarionidae, Durgellininae) from Loei Province, northeastern Thailand
Muangnua arborea Tumpeesuwan & Tumpeesuwan, sp. nov., is described, based on specimens deposited in the land snail collection of Mahasarakham University, Thailand. This species is the second described in the genus Muangnua, for which colour pictures of the living semislug in natural habitats, scanning electron microscope photos of the radula, and anatomy of the mature specimens were studied and presented for the first time for this genus. Keys to genera of Southeast Asian slug-like semislugs and species of Muangnua are provided.
["Durgellini"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Mercury impact and mitigation studies"]

First report and molecular characterization of the dagger nematode, Xiphinema oxycaudatum (Nematoda, Dorylaimidae) from South Africa
Plant-parasitic nematodes of the genus Xiphinema Cobb, 1913 comprise a complex group of nematode species, some of which are important vectors of plant viruses. During a field survey to determine the soil health of an abandoned honeybush (Cyclopia genistoides) monoculture, a high density of the dagger nematode, Xiphinema oxycaudatum Lamberti & Bleve-Zacheo, 1979 (Nematoda, Dorylaimidae), was observed in soil around the roots of honeybush plants in an abandoned farmland at Bereaville, an old mission station in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Soil samples were taken from the rhizosphere of plants and nematodes were extracted from the soil using a modified extraction tray method. Specimen of the dagger nematodes were processed for scanning electron microscopy, morphological and molecular analysis. Molecular profiling of the nematode species was done in order to give an accurate diagnosis and to effectively discriminate the nematode from other species within the Xiphinema americanum group. Phylogenetic analysis based on the D2D3 expansion segment of the 28S gene supported a close relationship of species within the americanum group, however, the protein-coding cytochrome oxidase (coxI) of the mitochondrial gene provided a useful tool for distinguishing the nematode from other species within the group. This study represents the first report of X. oxycaudatum from South Africa.
["coxI"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

A new subspecies of African fire salamander Salamandra algira (Urodela, Salamandridae) from the Middle Atlas Mountains, Morocco
A new subspecies within the Salamandra algira species complex from north-western Africa is described. Previous molecular analysis showed that the populations of S. algira splendens from north-western Morocco consisted of two well supported clades: clade 1 distributed in the Rif Mountains, from Chefchaouen (type locality) to Al Hoceima, and clade 2, located southern from clade 1 being isolated in the northern and central Middle Atlas Mountains. Clade 2 is herein described as a distinct subspecies: Salamandra algira atlantica ssp. nov. based on morphological data, allopatric range and molecular divergence. This new subspecies shows an uncorrected pairwise distance of 0.0265 from clade 1 based on cytochrome b DNA sequences. Salamandra algira atlantica ssp. nov. is a slender and large sized salamander with a highly variable colouration pattern. It can be distinguished from S. algira splendens by the greater proportion of coral red in the background colouration, being the only known subspecies of S. algira in which coral red can exceed the proportion of black. Variable number (0–5) of yellow to golden yellow dorsal blotches, but usually in lower numbers than the nominotypical subspecies. Salamandra algira atlantica ssp. nov. inhabits subhumid to humid forests and karstic systems at mid to high elevations. We briefly discuss the phylogenetic and taxonomic issues among the genus Salamandra which encompasses more valid species than currently recognised.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Holothuria (Mertensiothuria) viridiaurantia sp. nov. (Holothuriida, Holothuriidae), a new sea cucumber from the Eastern Pacific Ocean revealed by morphology and DNA barcoding
Holothuria (Mertensiothuria) viridiaurantia sp. nov. is described based on specimens from rocky reefs of northern Chocó in the Colombian Pacific Ocean; however, it also occurs along the Eastern Pacific Ocean from Mexico and Panama. Although specimens from Mexico and Panama were previously identified as Holothuria (Mertensiothuria) hilla Lesson, 1830 the new species is easily distinguished morphologically and via mtDNA. In terms of morphology, the species can be identified by its olive-green background and white-orange papillae and tentacles, larger tentacles with deep indentations and also by larger buttons on the dorsal and ventral body wall, papillae and tube feet; large, thick and rough tentacle rods, and the absence of ossicles in the longitudinal muscles. The new species is included in the subgenus Mertensiothuria considering molecular evidence.
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Seaweed-derived Bioactive Compounds"]

A new species in the genus Acartia Dana, 1846 (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Acartiidae) from the South Pacific coastal waters of Nadi Bay, Fiji
A new species in the genus Acartia, Acartia nadiensis sp. nov., is described from Fijian coastal waters. This species belongs to the subgenus Odontacartia based on the following morphological features: presence of a rostral filaments, a pointed process on the last prosomite, a serrated terminal spine on female P5, and the absence of a protrusion on the basis of the male right P5. This new species can be differentiated from its congeners by the combination of the absence of a spine on the first segment of the antennules, the short outer seta of female P5, and a medial spine on the exp-2 of the left male P5. Phylogenetic analyses using mitochondrial COI partial sequences show that the new species is distinct from its congeners.
["Odontacartia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Two new species of the genus Caligus (Crustacea, Copepoda, Siphonostomatoida) from the Sea of Japan, with a note on the establishment of a new species group
Two new species of Caligus are described from the Japanese coast of the Sea of Japan. Caligus chinglonglini sp. nov. is based on a male specimen found in a plankton sample, whereas C. kajii sp. nov. was collected from the body surface of the host flathead Platycephalus sp. These two new species can be assigned to a distinct species group, the pseudorhombi group newly named and defined by the morphology of the genital complex in both sexes, and by the structure and armature of legs 2 and 4. The species group so far accommodates 19 species including these two new species. The morphology, host specificity and zoogeography of the species group are discussed herein and keys to species groups of Caligus and to species of the C. pseudorhombi species group are provided.
["caligid copepods"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new species of Nilobezzia Kieffer (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) from the mangrove forest of Hainan Island, China
A new species of Nilobezzia Kieffer, Nilobezzia bamenwana Li & Li, sp. nov., collected from Bamenwan mangrove forest of Hainan Island, China, is described and illustrated based on female adults. The genus was previously known to have a single species occurring on the island.
["biting midges"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

Four new Caribbean Sigambra species (Annelida, Pilargidae), and clarifications of three other Sigambra species
Sigambra grubii Müller, 1858 has been reported from many different coastal environments in Brazil and the Grand Caribbean. However, more than one species was thought to be included under this species group name. After the study of several subtle and consistent differences in specimens fitting the description S. grubii, a new Grand Caribbean species is herein recognized and described as S. hernandezi sp. nov. Further, the study of other Sigambra specimens prompted the examination of type specimens of S. bassi (Hartman, 1947), and of S. wassi Pettibone, 1966 to clarify some morphological features, and three other new species are recognized and newly described: S. diazi sp. nov. and S. ligneroi sp. nov. from the southeastern Caribbean (Venezuela), and S. olivai sp. nov. from the northwestern Caribbean (México). Morphological features are also clarified for S. grubii by comparison with specimens from the type locality, Florianópolis, Brazil, and with type specimens of S. bassi from Florida (U.S.A.), and non-type specimens of S. wassi from Virginia (USA). A key to identify all species of Sigambra is also included.
["dorsal hooks"]

Under an integrative taxonomic approach: the description of a new species of the genus Loxosceles (Araneae, Sicariidae) from Mexico City
A new species of the spider genus Loxosceles Heineken & Lowe, 1832, Loxosceles tenochtitlan Valdez-Mondragón & Navarro-Rodríguez, sp. nov., is described based on adult male and female specimens from the states of Mexico City, Estado de Mexico and Tlaxcala. Integrative taxonomy including traditional morphology, geometric and lineal morphology, and molecules (DNA barcodes of cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (CO1) and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2)), were used as evidence to delimit the new species. Four methods were used for molecular analyses and species delimitation: 1) corrected p-distances under neighbor joining (NJ), 2) automatic barcode gap discovery (ABGD), 3) general mixed yule coalescent model (GMYC), and 4) poisson tree processes (bPTP). All molecular methods, traditional, geometric and lineal morphology were consistent in delimiting and recognizing the new species. Loxosceles tenochtitlan sp. nov. is closely related to L. misteca based on molecular data. Although both species are morphologically similar, the average p-distance from CO1 data was 13.8% and 4.2% for ITS2 data. The molecular species delimitation methods recovered well-supported monophyletic clusters for samples of L. tenochtitlan sp. nov. from Mexico City + Tlaxcala and for samples of L. misteca from Guerrero. Loxosceles tenochtitlan sp. nov. is considered a unique species for three reasons: (1) it can be distinguished by morphological characters (genitalic and somatic); (2) the four different molecular species delimitation methods were congruent to separate both species; and (3) there is variation in leg I length of males between both species, with the males of L. misteca having longer legs than males of L. tenochtitlan sp. nov., also morphometrically, the shape of tibiae of the palp between males of both species is different.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

The morphology of the immature stages of Squamapion atomarium (Kirby, 1808) (Coleoptera, Brentidae) and notes on its life cycle
The immature stages (egg, mature larva and pupa) of Squamapion atomarium (Kirby, 1808), as well as its development cycle and the phenology of its developmental stages, are described for the first time. The larva and pupa of S. atomarium have typical morphological features of the subfamily Apioninae. Morphological data on the immature stages were compared with the only fully described Squamapion species, S. elongatum (Germar, 1817). The larvae of the two species differ in body size and shape, head shape, setae length, the chaetotaxy of the mouthparts, and individual types of setae on the pronotum and thorax. In the case of the pupa, there are also differences in body size and in the type of setae and chaetotaxy of the head, pronotum, metanotum and abdomen.
["Apioninae"]

Parasitic nematodes of marine fishes from Palmyra Atoll, East Indo-Pacific, including a new species of Spinitectus (Nematoda, Cystidicolidae)
Here, we present the results of a taxonomic survey of the nematodes parasitizing fishes from the lagoon flats of Palmyra Atoll, Eastern Indo-Pacific. We performed quantitative parasitological surveys of 653 individual fish from each of the 44 species using the intertidal sand flats that border the atoll’s lagoon. We provide morphological descriptions, prevalence, and mean intensities of the recovered seven species of adult nematode (Pulchrascaris chiloscyllii, Capillariidae gen. sp., Cucullanus bourdini, Cucullanus oceaniensis, Pseudascarophis sp., Spinitectus (Paraspinitectus) palmyraensis sp. nov., Philometra pellucida) and three larval stages (Pulchrascaris sp., Hysterothylacium sp., Cucullanus sp.). We recorded: Pulchrascaris chiloscyllii from Carcharhinus melanopterus; Capillariidae gen. sp. from Chaetodon lunula, Lutjanus fulvus, and Ellochelon vaigiensis; Cucullanus bourdini from Arothron hispidus; Cucullanus oceaniensis from Abudefduf sordidus; Pseudascarophis sp. from Chaetodon auriga, Chaetodon lunula, and Mulloidichthys flavolineatus; Spinitectus (Paraspinitectus) palmyraensis sp. nov. from Albula glossodonta; Philometra pellucida from Arothron hispidus; and three larval forms, Pulchrascaris sp. from Acanthurus triostegus, Acanthurus xanthopterus, Rhinecanthus aculeatus, Platybelone argalus, Carangoides ferdau, Carangoides orthogrammus, Caranx ignobilis, Caranx melampygus, Caranx papuensis, Chaetodon auriga, Chanos chanos, Amblygobius phalaena, Asterropteryx semipunctata, Valencienea sexguttata, Kyphosus cinerascens, Lutjanus fulvus, Lutjanus monostigma, Ellochelon vaigiensis, Mulloidichthys flavolineatus, Upeneus taeniopterus, Gymnothorax pictus, Abudefduf septemfasciatus, Abudefduf sordidus, and Stegastes nigricans; Hysterothylacium sp. type MD from Acanthurus triostegus, Carangoides ferdau, Chaetodon lunula, Chanos chanos, Kyphosus cinerascens, Abudefduf sordidus, and Arothron hispidus; and Cucullanus sp. from Caranx ignobilis. Spinitectus (Paraspinitectus) palmyraensis sp. nov. (Cystidicolidae) is described from the intestine of roundjaw bonefish Albula glossodonta. All the nematode species reported in this study represent new geographical records. We discuss how our survey findings compare to other areas of the Indo-Pacific, and the way the relatively numerical dominance of trophically transmitted larval stages likely reflect the intact food web of Palmyra Atoll, which includes a large biomass of large-bodied top predator sharks and ray-finned fishes.
["Cucullanus"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasites and Host Interactions"]

A new species and new records of Onchidium slugs (Gastropoda, Euthyneura, Pulmonata, Onchidiidae) in South-East Asia
A new species, Onchidium melakense Dayrat & Goulding, sp. nov., is described, bringing the total to four known species in the genus Onchidium Buchannan, 1800. Onchidium melakense is a rare species with only nine individuals found at three mangrove sites in the Andaman Islands and the Strait of Malacca (western Peninsular Malaysia and eastern Sumatra). The new species is delineated based on mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and nuclear (ITS2 and 28S) DNA sequences as well as comparative anatomy. Each Onchidium species is characterized by a distinct color and can easily be identified in the field, even in the Strait of Malacca where there are three sympatric Onchidium species. An identification key is provided. In addition, Onchidium stuxbergi (Westerlund, 1883) is recorded for the first time from eastern Sumatra, and Onchidium pallidipes Tapparone-Canefri, 1889, of which the type material is described and illustrated here, is regarded as a new junior synonym of O. stuxbergi.

A new species of Gordius (Phylum Nematomorpha) from terrestrial habitats in North America
Freshwater hairworms (class Gordiida) are members of the phylum Nematomorpha that use terrestrial arthropods as definitive hosts but reside as free-living adult worms in rivers, lakes, or streams. The genus Gordius consists of 90 described species, of which three species were described from freshwater habitats in North America. In this paper we describe a new species of Gordius from terrestrial habitats in Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana, United States. Oddly, each year hundreds of adult free-living worms appear after bouts of heavy rain on streets, sidewalks, and lawns during the winter season, when terrestrial arthropod hosts are not active. The new species is described based on morphological characters of adults and non-adult stages including the egg strings, eggs, larvae, and cysts. Adult males have a unique row of bristles on the ventral inner side of each tail lobe and a circular pattern of bristles on the terminal end of each lobe, which distinguishes them from all other described North American species of Gordius. The egg string, larval, and cyst morphology of this new species conform to previous descriptions of non-adult hairworm stages for the genus Gordius. However, the eggs of this new species of hairworm are unique, as they contain an outer shell separated by distinct space from a thick inner membrane. The consistent occurrence of this gordiid in terrestrial habitats, along with its distinct egg morphology, suggests that this new species of hairworm has a terrestrial life cycle.
["eggs"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Lithobius (Ezembius) hualongensis sp. nov. and Lithobius (Ezembius) sui sp. nov. (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae), two new species of centipede from northwest China
Lithobius (Ezembius) hualongensis sp. nov. and Lithobius (Ezembius) sui sp. nov. (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae) recently discovered from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China are described. Morphologically, the two new species are very similar but can be distinguished by the number of coxosternal teeth: L. (E.) hualongensis sp. nov. has 2 + 2 while L. (E.) sui sp. nov. has 3 + 3. The two new species resemble L. (E.) multispinipes Pei et al., 2016, from the Xinjiang Autonomous Region, but can be readily distinguished by having the Tömösváry’s organ slightly larger than the adjoining ocelli rather than smaller, 3 + 3 spurs on female gonopods versus 2 + 2, and the simple terminal claw of female gonopods with a small triangular protuberance on the basal ventral side versus simple, without a small triangular protuberance on the basal ventral side. We also compare the main morphological characters of the two new species with the other Lithobius (Ezembius) species known in Qinghai Province. A key to the Chinese species of Ezembius is presented.
["myriapod"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Rhynchotermes armatus, a new mandibulate nasute termite (Isoptera, Termitidae, Syntermitinae) from Colombia
Rhynchotermes armatus sp. nov. is described from soldiers and workers collected in the Magdalena River Valley of Colombia. Both castes of this new termite are superficially similar to R. perarmatus (Snyder) but the former are smaller, head capsules yellowish instead of reddish, and among additional characters, the soldier has narrower mandibles and marginal teeth.
["endemic"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and animal studies"]

Gnathia bermudensis (Crustacea, Isopoda, Gnathiidae), a new species from the mesophotic reefs of Bermuda, with a key to Gnathia from the Greater Caribbean biogeographic region
Gnathia bermudensis sp. nov. is described from mesophotic coral ecosystems in Bermuda; it is distinguished by pronounced and pointed supraocular lobes, two superior frontolateral processes and a weak bifid mediofrontal process, pereonite 1 not fused dorsally with the cephalosome, and large eyes. This is the first record of a species of Gnathia from Bermuda. A synopsis and key to the other Gnathia species from the Greater Caribbean biogeographic region is provided.
["Atlantic Ocean"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

A new species of Acorhinotermes Emerson, 1949 (Blattodea, Isoptera, Rhinotermitidae) from Colombia, with a key to Neotropical Rhinotermitinae species based on minor soldiers
Acorhinotermes Emerson, 1949 is the only Neotropical Rhinotermitine genus with no major soldier. Herein Acorhinotermes claritae Castro & Scheffrahn, sp. nov. is described based on minor soldiers and an alate nymph collected in a secondary rain forest in the Colombian Amazon. The minor soldier of A. claritae Castro & Scheffrahn, sp. nov. has longer mandibular points and it is comparatively smaller than A. subfusciceps. An illustrated key to the minor soldiers of the Neotropical species of Rhinotermitinae is presented.
["Colombian Amazon"]

Trichopolydesmidae from Cameroon, 2: A species-level reclassification of Afrotropical trichopolydesmids (Diplopoda, Polydesmida), with two new species and two new records from Cameroon, and two new species from the Nimba Mountains, Guinea
A revised classification of Afrotropical Trichopolydesmidae is presented. The fauna presently contains as many as 52 species in six recognized genera, with numerous new transfers/combinations involved: Bactrodesmus Cook, 1896 (3 species, including B. grandis sp. nov. from the Nimba Mountains, Guinea), Eburodesmus Schubart, 1955 (2 species), Hemisphaeroparia Schubart, 1955 (26 species, including one old species, Polydesmus parvulus Porat, 1894, revised from type material and provisionally assigned to Hemisphaeroparia, as well as two new records and two new species from Cameroon: H. longibrachiata sp. nov. and H. avis sp. nov.), Mecistoparia Brolemann, 1926 (3 species), Physetoparia Brolemann, 1920 (12 species, including P. complexa sp. nov. from the Nimba Mountains, Guinea), and Sphaeroparia Attems, 1909 (6 species). The hitherto enigmatic genus Bactrodesmus is redefined, but the monotypic Trichozonus Carl, 1905 still remains dubious.
["classification"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

A new lapsiine jumping spider from North America, with a review of Simon’s Lapsias species (Araneae, Salticidae, Spartaeinae)
A new spider genus and species from México and Guatemala, Amilaps mayana gen. et sp. nov., is described, distinct from other members of the jumping spider tribe Lapsiini (subfamily Spartaeinae) by its four retromarginal cheliceral teeth and the large sclerite cradling the embolus. It is the first living lapsiine known outside of South America. This tribe has received attention recently for new species and genera in Ecuador and Brazil, but Simon’s original four species of Lapsias, described from Venezuela in 1900 and 1901, remain relatively poorly known. Accordingly, new illustrations of Simon’s type material are given, and a lectotype is designated for L. cyrboides Simon, 1900. The three forms of females in Simon’s material from Colonia Tovar, Aragua, are reviewed and illustrated, and they are a tentatively matched with the three male lectotypes of his species from the same location.
["Guatemala"]

Taxonomic review of Gasterophilus (Oestridae, Gasterophilinae) of the world, with updated nomenclature, keys, biological notes, and distributions
A taxonomic review of Gasterophilus is presented, with nine valid species, 51 synonyms and misspellings for the genus and the species, updated diagnoses, worldwide distributions, and a summary of biological information for all species. Identification keys for adults and eggs are elaborated, based on a series of new diagnostic features and supported by high resolution photographs for adults. The genus is shown to have its highest species richness in China and South Africa, with seven species recorded, followed by Mongolia, Senegal, and Ukraine, with six species recorded.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A species-level taxonomic review and host associations of Glyptapanteles (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) with an emphasis on 136 new reared species from Costa Rica and Ecuador
The descriptive taxonomic study reported here is focused on Glyptapanteles, a species-rich genus of hymenopteran parasitoid wasps. The species were found within the framework of two independent long-term Neotropical caterpillar rearing projects: northwestern Costa Rica (Área de Conservación Guanacaste, ACG) and eastern Andes, Ecuador (centered on Yanayacu Biological Station, YBS). One hundred thirty-six new species of Glyptapanteles Ashmead are described and all of them are authored by Arias-Penna. None of them was recorded in both countries; thus, 78 are from Costa Rica and the remaining 58 from Ecuador. Before this revision, the number of Neotropical described Glyptapanteles did not reach double digits. Reasonable boundaries among species were generated by integrating three datasets: Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) gene sequencing data, natural history (host records), and external morphological characters. Each species description is accompanied by images and known geographical distribution. Characteristics such as shape, ornamentation, and location of spun Glyptapanteles cocoons were imaged as well. Host-parasitoid associations and food plants are also here published for the first time. A total of 88 species within 84 genera in 15 Lepidoptera families was encountered as hosts in the field. With respect to food plants, these wild-caught parasitized caterpillars were reared on leaves of 147 species within 118 genera in 60 families. The majority of Glyptapanteles species appeared to be relatively specialized on one family of Lepidoptera or even on some much lower level of taxonomic refinement. Those herbivores in turn are highly food-plant specialized, and once caterpillars were collected, early instars (1–3) yielded more parasitoids than later instars. Glyptapanteles jimmilleri Arias-Penna, sp. nov. is the first egg-larval parasitoid recorded within the genus, though there may be many more since such natural history requires a more focused collection of eggs. The rate of hyperparasitoidism within the genus was approximately 4% and was represented by Mesochorus spp. (Ichneumonidae). A single case of multiparasitoidism was reported, Copidosoma floridanum Ashmead (Encyrtidae) and Glyptapanteles ilarisaaksjarvi Arias-Penna, sp. nov. both parasitoid species emerged from the caterpillar of Noctuidae: Condica cupienta (Cramer). Bodyguard behavior was observed in two Glyptapanteles species: G. howelldalyi Arias-Penna, sp. nov. and G. paulhansoni Arias-Penna, sp. nov. A dichotomous key for all the new species is provided. The numerous species described here, and an equal number already reared but not formally described, signal a far greater Glyptapanteles species richness in the Neotropics than suggested by the few described previously.

A new genus and species of fish parasitic cymothoid (Crustacea, Isopoda) from the Indian Ocean coast of South Africa, with a key to the externally attaching genera of Cymothoidae
Bambalocra intwala gen. et sp. nov. is described from Sodwana Bay, north-eastern South Africa. The monotypic genus is characterised by the broadly truncate anterior margin of the head with a ventral rostrum, coxae 2–5 being ventral in position not forming part of the body outline and not or barely visible in dorsal view, and the posterolateral margins of pereonites 6 and 7 are posteriorly produced and broadly rounded. The antennulae bases are widely separated, with both antennula and antenna slender. The species is known only from the type locality and the known hosts are species of Pomacanthidae (Angelfish). A revised key to the externally attaching genera of Cymothoidae is provided.
["coral reefs"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Taxonomic revision of Australian Copelatus Erichson, 1832 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
The genus Copelatus in Australia is revised and nine species are recognised. One new species, Copelatus martinbaehri sp. nov., is described from Papua New Guinea (Central Province) and Cape York Peninsula (Iron Range NP and Mt Tozer). Copelatus divisus Watts, 1978, syn. nov., is considered a junior synonym of C. portior Guignot, 1956, described from New Guinea. Species delimitation is based on the morphological characters and Cox1 data. All species are (re)described, and their important species characters (median lobes, parameres, habitus and colour patterns) are illustrated. A key to all nine species is provided. The known distribution and habitat preferences of each species are outlined briefly. In Australia, all nine species are distributed in the northern half of the continent. Four species are also reported from New Guinea: in addition to C. martinbaehri sp. nov., we record C. clarki Sharp, 1882 for the first time from southern New Guinea, and consider literature records of C. irregularis W.J. Macleay, 1871 and C. marginatus Sharp, 1882 from New Guinea as doubtful. Copelatus portior is widely distributed in Australasia, while C. tenebrosus is widely distributed in the Indomalayan and Australasian realms. All Australian Copelatus are confirmed to be lentic, found in a large variety of stagnant water, mainly in lowland areas up to 250 m.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Amamiclytus wuxingensis sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae), the third species of the genus from mainland China
Amamiclytus wuxingensis sp. nov., the third species of the genus from mainland China, is described and illustrated with specimens collected from Wuxing Village, Leishan County, Guizhou Province, China. Distribution and grouping of the new species are discussed and the key to the East Asian species of the genus is updated to accommodate species recorded from mainland China.
["longhorn beetle"]

A new species of Laccobius Erichson, 1837 (Hydrophilidae, Coleoptera) from the Chinese Himalaya, with comments on taxonomic status of subgenera Glyptolaccobius Gentili, 1989 and Cyclolaccobius Gentili, 1991 and additional faunistic records from China
A new species of the water scavenger beetle, Laccobius (Glyptolaccobius) motuoensis sp. nov., is described from Motuo County, Xizang, China and its diagnostic characters are illustrated. Examination of this new species and re-examination of previously described species revealed that the separation of the subgenus Glyptolaccobius Gentili, 1989 and Cyclolaccobius Gentili, 1991 is artificial: both subgenera are hence combined here. Cyclolaccobius syn. nov. is synonymized with Glyptolaccobius, and the latter is shown to be diagnosed by 7-segmented antennae as a unique synapomorphy. All species treated until now under Cyclolaccobius are here transferred to Glyptolaccobius, with the only exception of L. hingstoni Orchymont, 1926, L. jumlanus Gentili, 2015 and L. zugmayeri Knisch, 1910 which are tentatively transferred to the subgenus Hydroxenus Wollaston, 1867, as their antennae bear eight antennomeres. Three species are recorded for the first time from China: L. (Microlaccobius) orientalis Knisch, 1924 from Xizang, Laccobius (M.) exilis Gentili,1974 from Xinjiang, and Laccobius (M.) sublaevis J. Sahlberg, 1900 from Xinjiang. Additional faunistic data from China are provided for the following species: L. (Microlaccobius) hammondi Gentili, 1984, Laccobius (M.) formosus Gentili, 1979, Laccobius (Hydroxenus) hingstoni d’Orchymont, 1926, Laccobius (Glyptolaccobius) yunnanensis Gentili, 2003, Laccobius (Compsolaccobius) decorus (Gyllenhal, 1827), Laccobius (Dimorpholaccobius) bipunctatus (Fabricius, 1775), Laccobius (D.) striatulus (Fabricius, 1775), Laccobius (s. str.) bedeli Sharp, 1884, L. (s. str.) binotatus d’Orchymont, 1934, Laccobius (s. str.) cinereus Motschulsky, 1860, and Laccobius (s. str.) minutus (Linnaeus, 1758).

Who are you, Griselda? A replacement name for a new genus of the Asiatic short-tailed shrews (Mammalia, Eulipotyphla, Soricidae): molecular and morphological analyses with the discussion of tribal affinities
The first genetic study of the holotype of the Gansu short-tailed shrew, Blarinella griselda Thomas, 1912, is presented. The mitochondrial analysis demonstrated that the type specimen of B. griselda is close to several recently collected specimens from southern Gansu, northern Sichuan and Shaanxi, which are highly distinct from the two species of Asiatic short-tailed shrews of southern Sichuan, Yunnan, and Vietnam, B. quadraticauda and B. wardi. Our analysis of four nuclear genes supported the placement of B. griselda as sister to B. quadraticauda / B. wardi, with the level of divergence between these two clades corresponding to that among genera of Soricinae. A new generic name, Parablarinella, is proposed for the Gansu short-tailed shrew. Karyotypes of Parablarinella griselda (2n = 49, NFa = 50) and B. quadraticauda (2n = 49, NFa = 62) from southern Gansu are described. The tribal affinities of Blarinellini and Blarinini are discussed.
["Blarinini"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Seven new species of Trigonopterus Fauvel (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) from the Tanimbar Archipelago
Based on recent fieldwork, the hyperdiverse weevil genus Trigonopterus Fauvel is recorded for the first time from the Indonesian Tanimbar Archipelago, halfway between Australia and Western New Guinea. All seven species discovered on Tanimbar are new to science, and described here: Trigonopterus atuf sp. nov., T. kumbang sp. nov., T. laratensis sp. nov., T. porg sp. nov., T. selaruensis sp. nov., T. tanimbarensis sp. nov., and T. triradiatus sp. nov. The new species are authored by the taxonomists-in-charge, Raden Pramesa Narakusumo and Alexander Riedel. This fauna appears discordant and established by relatively recent dispersal from New Guinea and other Moluccan islands.

A new species of Ceraeochrysa Adams (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae), with a key to the species from Mexico
The genus Ceraeochrysa Adams is widely distributed in the New World, from southeastern Canada to Argentina, with 15 out of 61 previously known species recorded in Mexico. In this paper, Ceraeochrysa tacanensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Volcán Tacaná, Chiapas, and an identification key to Ceraeochrysa species present in Mexico is provided. The new species is similar to others with swollen and darkened posterior branches of the cubital vein, and it can be separated from these other species by an elongate gonapsis extending from the base of the gonosaccus; the gonapsis is slightly upturned, terminating in a rounded apex with dorsal microteeth. Females of the new species have non-distinctive genitalia morphology. However, they can be associated with males of the species by body color pattern, synchrony, and sympatry.
["Central American Volcanic Arc"]

A new species of the genus Acanthosaura from Yunnan, China (Squamata, Agamidae)
A new species of Acanthosaura from Yunnan, China is described based on unique morphometric and meristic external characters and a very distinctive color pattern. The fourteenth species recorded of this genus, Acanthosaura tongbiguanensis sp. nov., was previously considered A. lepidogaster although it more closely resembles A. crucigera. It can be separated from all other species of the genus by having different numbers of subdigital lamellae on the fourth finger and toe, and a different shape of the black eye patch. The new species differs genetically from investigated congeners by percentage distance of 14.46% to 23.27% (cytochrome b gene).
["crucigera"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A taxonomic monograph of the liphistiid spider genus Heptathela, endemic to Japanese islands
Among the eight extant genera of primitively segmented spiders, family Liphistiidae, two are confined to East Asian islands, Heptathela Kishida, 1923 and Ryuthela Haupt, 1983. In this paper, a taxonomic revision of the genus Heptathela (Heptathelinae) from Kyushu and Ryukyu archipelago, Japan is provided. This study follows a multi-tier species delimitation strategy within an integrative taxonomic framework that is presented in a parallel paper, in which diagnosable lineages are considered as valid species. There, the initial hypothesis of species diversity (19) based on classical morphological diagnoses is tested with multiple species delimitation methods aimed at resolving conflict in data. This revision follows those analyses that converge on the species diversity of 20, which includes a pair of cryptic species that would have been undetected with morphology alone. After this revision, eight previously described species remain valid, two junior synonyms are proposed, and 12 new Heptathela species are described based on diagnostic evidence. To ease identification and to hint at putative evolutionary units, Heptathela is divided into three groups. The Kyushu group contains H. higoensis Haupt, 1983, H. kikuyai Ono, 1998, H. kimurai (Kishida, 1920), and H. yakushimaensis Ono, 1998; the Amami group contains H. amamiensis Haupt, 1983, H. kanenoi Ono, 1996, H. kojima sp. nov., H. sumiyo sp. nov., and H. uken sp. nov.; and the Okinawa group contains H. yanbaruensis Haupt, 1983, H. aha sp. nov., H. gayozan sp. nov., H. kubayama sp. nov., H. mae sp. nov., H. otoha sp. nov., H. shuri sp. nov., H. tokashiki sp. nov., H. unten sp. nov., and H. crypta sp. nov. Heptathela helios Tanikawa & Miyashita, 2014 is not assigned to a species group. A combination of diagnostic tools augments the morphological diagnoses that, in isolation, would be prone to error in morphologically challenging groups of organisms.
["Heptathelinae"]

Two new species of Polydesmus Latreille, 1802/1803 from northern Spain with reinstatements of two species, and a key to the Iberian Polydesmus species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Polydesmidae)
Polydesmus biscayensis sp. nov. and P. asturiensis sp. nov. are described and figured based on material housed in the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales in Madrid. The specimens were collected in six localities in the Asturias and Cantabria provinces, including four caves. In addition, Polydesmus haroi Mauriès & Vicente, 1977 and Polydesmus racovitzai Brolemann, 1910 are transferred from Propolydesmus Verhoeff, 1895 to Polydesmus Latreille, 1802/1803 after examining the gonopod morphology. A key to the Iberian Polydesmus species is presented.
["Asturias"]

Annotated checklist of fishes from Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary with notes on extralimital species
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a federal, marine protected area located off the central coast of California, USA. Understanding biodiversity, and how it is changing, is necessary to effectively manage the sanctuary. The large size of this sanctuary, which contains a variety of habitats and is influenced by several water masses, provides for a diverse fish fauna. The central California coast has a rich history of ichthyological research and surveys, contributing to a unique repository of information on fish diversity. Herein, we provide a checklist of fishes that occur within the sanctuary, including justification for each species. Ancillary record information including name-bearing type specimens, historic species, cold- or warm-water event species, introduced species, and occurrence at Davidson Seamount or Elkhorn Slough are also provided. This represents the first comprehensive annotated checklist of 507 fishes known to occur within the sanctuary. In addition, 18 species are considered to be extralimital. This annotated checklist of fishes can be used by those interested in zoogeography, marine protected areas, ichthyology, regional natural history, and sanctuary management.
["central California"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Two new species of Araneus Clerck, 1757 (Araneae, Araneidae) and first description of A. wulongensis male from China
Two new species of Araneus Clerck, 1757 are described: A. conexus sp. nov. (♂♀) and A. digitatus sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan and Hubei provinces. The male of A. wulongensis Song & Zhu, 1992 is described here for the first time. All species treated in this study belong to A. strurmi species group. Detailed description and illustrations of somatic features, and copulatory organs as well as distribution maps are provided.
["Araneinae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Three new species of the genus Coddingtonia from Asia (Araneae, Theridiosomatidae)
The current paper expands knowledge of the genus Coddingtonia Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009. Based on morphological characters and molecular data, three species are documented as new to science: C. erhuan Feng & Lin, sp. nov. (♀) from China, C. lizu Feng & Lin, sp. nov. (♀) from China, and C. huifengi Feng & Lin, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Indonesia. The type of C. euryopoides Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009 is also reexamined. DNA sequences (COI), detailed illustrations of habitus, male palp and epigyne are provided for these four species, as well as a key and a distribution map for Coddingtonia species.

Taxonomy of Cyrtomorphus Lacordaire (Coleoptera, Erotylidae, Tritomini) from China
In this paper, a key to separate the Chinese species of genus Cyrtomorphus Lacordaire is provided for the first time. A new species, Cyrtomorphus rufobrunneus sp. nov., is described and illustrated, and one species, Cyrtomorphus connexus Gorham, 1896 is newly recorded to China.
["Cucujoidea"]

Taxonomic study on the photid amphipods (Senticaudata, Corophiida, Photoidea, Photidae) from Korean waters, with descriptions of a new genus and seven new species
In this paper, seven new species of the family Photidae from Korean waters are described and illustrated in detail. Among them, Exiliphotis petila sp. nov. is a monotype of the newly reported Exiliphotis gen. nov., which is characterized by slenderer and more elongate pereopods 5–7 than those of other genera of the family Photidae. The genus Latigammaropsis is reported for the first time from Korean waters based on the description of Latigammaropsis careocavata sp. nov., which is differentiated from other Gammaropsis group by having weakly sexual dimorphic gnathopods 2, those have simple palmar margins in both sexes. Three new species of Photis are also described: Photis bronca sp. nov., Photis posterolobus sp. nov., and Photis longicarpus sp. nov. The formerly misidentified Photis longicaudata from Japan and China as well as the Korean material could be classified as a new species, P. bronca sp. nov. For that, the syntypes of P. longicaudata were re-examined, and lectotype and paralectotypes were newly designated in this study. Photis bronca sp. nov. is characterized by quadrate tooth on the palmar margin medially on gnathopod 2 in both sexes. Photis posterolobus sp. nov. shows a pointed posterior lobe on the ischium and a well-developed process of the propodus on male gnathopod 2. Photis longicarpus sp. nov. can be distinguished from other species of the genus by very elongate carpus of male gnathopod 1. Two new species belonging to the genus Podoceropsis are also reported: Podoceropsis insinuomanus sp. nov. has a strongly bisinuous palmar margin on male gnathopod 2, and Podoceropsis pseudoclavapes sp. nov. differs from the closely related species of Podoceropsis clavapes by different shape of the palmar margin and shorter dactylus of male gnathopod 2. Additionally, a key to the Korean species of Photidae is provided.
["Exiliphotis petila"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Ten new species of the spider genus Sinoderces Li & Li, 2017 from China, Laos and Thailand (Araneae, Psilodercidae)
Ten new species of the spider family Psilodercidae Machado, 1951 are described from tropical East Asia, including five species found in China: Sinoderces luohanensis Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), S. xueae Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), S. taichi Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), S. wenshanensis Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), S. aiensis Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀); three are from Laos: S. khanensis Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), S. phathaoensis Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), S. kieoensis Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂); and the rest are from Thailand: S. saraburiensis Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂), S. dewaroopensis Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). Types of all new species are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, China.

Revision of the Australian genus Logasa Chandler (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Faronitae) with description of three new species
The Australian genus Logasa Chandler, 2001 (type species: L. novaeanglia Chandler) is comprised of six species, three of which are described as new: Logasa newtoni sp. nov., Logasa thayerae sp. nov., and Logasa comforti sp. nov. Examination of the types of L. tricolor (Oke) and L. ventralis (Oke) revealed that they do not share some of the diagnostic characters used here to characterize the type, and other species of the genus, but they are retained in Logasa until the group is revised. A key to species, illustrations of their habitus, and diagnostic characters are provided.
["beetle"]

Thitarodes shambalaensis sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Hepialidae): a new host of the caterpillar fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis supported by genome-wide SNP data
A new species of ghost moth, Thitarodes shambalaensis sp. nov., is described from Yanzigou glacier, Mt. Gongga, Sichuan, China. The species is a host of the economically important caterpillar fungus Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Establishment of this new species is supported by morphology and genetic differentiation measured in a CO1 phylogeny and in genome-wide SNP coverage. A summary tree from 538 sequences of different genetic markers from Thitarodes (including sequences extracted from caterpillar fungus sclerotium samples) support the genus Thitarodes as a monophyletic group, and indicate that Thitarodes is the host genus for O. sinensis. Sampling efforts so far have centered on half of the known phylogenetic diversity of Thitarodes, with some species-level clusters (separated by < 2.5% genetic distance) containing 17 described species. Fifteen clusters are known from either a single “orphan taxon” or a single sequence from a caterpillar fungus sclerotium sample. We provide suggestions for building a more robust phylogeny of the genus Thitarodes and highlight some of the conservation threats that species from this genus face due to unprecedented habitat exploitation.
["RAD-Seq"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

New records of Lumbricidae and Collembola in anthropogenic soils of East European tundra
The terrestrial environment of the East European tundra consists of a mosaic of habitat types. In addition to the natural habitat diversity, various human-influenced types may occur. In the town of Vorkuta, Komi Republic, Russia the manure-enriched soils near hydrogen sulfide springs were observed. This site represents an unusually nutrient-rich location with considerable development of organic soils, in contrast to the naturally forming soils in East European tundra which are typically thin and nutrient poor. In these organic soils, two species of Lumbricidae and two species of Collembola previously not recorded from the natural ecosystems in the study area of research territory were found. One earthworm species, Dendrodrilus rubidus tenuis, is likely to have been introduced. The presence of the three other species (Eiseniella tetraedra, Folsomia fimetaria, and Proisotoma minuta) is quite natural in East European tundra and such anthropogenic soils with high organic content may be a good habitat for them.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Notes on the sinistral helicoid snail Bertia cambojiensis (Reeve, 1860) from Vietnam (Eupulmonata, Dyakiidae)
Since the time of the original description there have been no precise locality records in Cambodia of Bertia cambojiensis (Reeve, 1860) and it was believed to be extinct. In 2012, a joint Natural History Museum survey with Vietnamese colleagues rediscovered living populations of this huge sinistral helicoid snail in a protected area of southern Vietnam. The genitalia and radula morphology are re-assessed and type specimens of all recognised congeners are figured herein. The unique morphological characters of this species are a small and simple penis, well-developed amatorial organ complex that incorporates four amatorial organ ducts, a short gametolytic organ complex and spiked papilla, and radula morphology with unicuspid teeth. The type locality of B. cambojiensis, which has been contentious, is determined here to be in the vicinity of ‘Brelum’, Vietnam, near the border with Cambodia. In addition, the nucleotide sequences of barcoding genes COI, 16SrRNA and 28S fragments were provided for further comparison.

A new singular species of Croscherichia Pardo Alcaide, 1950 (Coleoptera, Meloidae, Mylabrini) from arid zones of eastern Morocco
A new species of blister beetle (Coleoptera, Meloidae, Mylabrini), Croscherichia armass Ruiz, François & García-París, sp. nov., is described from the arid steppes of eastern Morocco (Missour, Boulemane Province). The new species presents traits shared with both Croscherichia and desert species of the genus Ammabris, making it morphologically singular. Conspicuous external similarities (coloration pattern, shape of the mandibles, setation) between C. armass sp. nov. and Ammabris allow the two to be easily confused. However, C. armass sp. nov. can be readily distinguished from all other Croscherichia species by the following traits: reddish-orange legs with dark tarsi; relatively short black antennae with the proximal-most three to four antennomeres of each antenna having a reddish-brown coloration; dense and silvery body setation that lies over most of the body integument; straight and pointed outer mandible margins that protrude from the labrum; a mesosternum with an angulate anterior margin; a short, subcylindrical, and weakly spatulate external metatibial spur that is truncated obliquely at the apex. Croscherichia armass sp. nov. is only known from three localities in the arid Hammada steppes, which are located within the Quaternary alluvial plains of the Muluya river valley. Live specimens of C. armass sp. nov. were found in flight and actively feeding on Atriplex halimus (Chenopodiaceae) flowers at the end of summer (mid-September). The phenology of C. armass sp. nov. is exceptional as no other Mylabrini species known from eastern areas of Morocco are active in late summer.
["Ammabris"]
["Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new Peruvian species of Scybalocanthon Martínez, 1948 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae, Deltochilini) and some remarkable intrapopulational variation in the endophallus of S. pinopterus (Kirsch, 1873)
Scybalocanthon ashei sp. nov. from Madre de Dios, Peru, is described based on differences in external and male genital morphology. Its diagnostic characters and an updated identification key to the species of the genus are provided as well as new distributional data for the following species: S. acrianus Silva & Valois, 2019, S. aereus (Schmidt, 1922), S. kaestneri (Balthasar, 1939) and S. pinopterus (Kirsch, 1873).
["Dung beetles"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Revision of the New World genus Enderleiniella Becker, 1912 (Diptera, Chloropidae)
The genus Enderleiniella Becker, 1912 is revised. The genus is distinguished on the basis of a somewhat flattened head with the inner vertical setae located anteromedially to the outer vertical setae, three lightly incised lines on the scutum, trapezoidal or rectangular scutellum with marginal setae borne on tubercles, reduced alula and anal angle of the wing, and the structure of the male genitalia. The genus contains eleven species in the northern Neotropical and southern Nearctic Regions: E. caerulea sp. nov. (type locality: Blue Creek, Belize); E. cryptica sp. nov. (type locality: 24 km W Piedras Blancas, Costa Rica); E. flavida sp. nov. (type locality: Emerald Pool, Dominica); E. longiventris (Enderlein, 1911) (type species; type locality: Costa Rica); E. maculata sp. nov. (type locality: Xilitla, San Luis Potosi, Mexico); E. marshalli sp. nov. (type locality: Guanacaste, Costa Rica); E. maya sp. nov. (type locality: Las Escobas, Guatemala); E. punctata sp. nov. (type locality: Potrerillo, Bolivia); E. tripunctata (Becker, 1916) (type locality: San Mateo, Costa Rica); E. tumescens sp. nov. (type locality: San Esteban, Venezuela); and E. wheeleri sp. nov. (type locality: Turrialba, Costa Rica).
["Grass fly"]

A new species of Caecilia (Gymnophiona, Caeciliidae) from the Magdalena valley region of Colombia
A new species of the genus Caecilia (Caeciliidae) from the western foothills of the Serranía de los Yariguíes in Colombia is described. Caecilia pulchraserrana sp. nov. is similar to C. degenerata and C. corpulenta but differs from these species in having fewer primary annular grooves and a shorter body length. With this new species, the currently recognized species in the genus are increased to 35. Mitochondrial DNA sequences, including newly sequenced terminals representing two additional, previously unanalyzed species, corroborate the phylogenetic position of the new species within Caecilia and the monophyly of the genus. This analysis also included newly sequenced terminals of Epicrionops aff. parkeri (Rhinatrematidae) and trans-Andean Microcaecilia nicefori (Siphonopidae). Evidence was found for the non-monophyly of the family Siphonopidae and the siphonopid genera Microcaecilia and Siphonops. The implications of these results for caecilian systematics are discussed and the status of the trans-Andean populations of Caecilia degenerata is commented upon.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Three new species and one subspecies of the Amynthas corticis-group from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China (Oligochaeta, Megascolecidae)
Three new species and one subspecies of the genus Amynthas are described from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China: The new species are: Amynthas maximus Qiu & Dong, sp. nov. and Amynthas tortuosus Qiu & Dong, sp. nov., and Amynthas shengtangmontis Dong & Jiang, sp. nov., the subspecies is Amynthas shengtangmontis minusculus subsp. nov. All have four pairs of spermathecal pores in 5/6–8/9, which indicates that they should belong to the corticis-group. Their morphological characteristics are compared to other similar species in the corticis-group from China and other Asian countries, such as Amynthas pulvinus Sun & Jiang, 2013, Amynthas homosetus (Chen, 1938), Amynthas corticis (Kinberg, 1867), Amynthas dorsualis Sun & Qiu, 2013, and Amynthas carnosus (Goto & Hatai, 1899). In addition, the results presented are confirmed by the pairwise comparison of COI barcode sequences. The pairwise distances between each new species and the other eighteen corticis-group species are greater than 14.7% on average. Furthermore, the pairwise distance between A. shengtangmontis shengtangmontis and A. shengtangmontis minusculus is 10.7–11.4%.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

Two new species of the genus Milnesium Doyère, 1840 (Tardigrada, Apochela, Milnesiidae) from Madagascar
The knowledge of the diversity and distribution of tardigrades on Madagascar is rather poor. To date, only 13 tardigrade taxa have been reported from this region (including one Milnesium species). We examined 46 specimens belonging to two new-to-science species of the genus Milnesium described herein using an integrative approach, including classical morphology and molecular marker (COI, ITS-2 and 28S rRNA) analysis. The species were found in two moss and lichen samples collected in the Ivohibory forest in Fianarantsoa Province. Milnesium matheusi sp. nov., with claw configuration [3-3]–[3-3] and rather wide buccal tube, morphologically is most similar to: Mil. beatae Roszkowska, Ostrowska & Kaczmarek, 2015, Mil. bohleberi Bartels, Nelson, Kaczmarek & Michalczyk, 2014, Mil. eurystomum Maucci, 1991, Mil. shilohae Meyer, 2015 and Mil. tumanovi Pilato, Sabella & Lisi, 2016; however, it differs from these by morphometric characteristics. Milnesium wrightae sp. nov., by the presence of four points on secondary branches of claws IV, is most similar to Mil. quadrifidum Nederström, 1919. However, Mil. wrightae sp. nov. differs from Mil. quadrifidum by claw configuration ([4-4]–[4-4] in Mil. quadrifidum vs. [3-3]–[4-4] in Mil. wrightae sp. nov.), but also by the position of the fourth points on secondary branches of claws IV, which are located near the base of the claw in the new species and near the top of the claw in Mil. quadrifidum. Genotypic analysis showed that Mil. matheusi sp. nov. is most similar to Milnesium sp. (28S rRNA), Mil. variefidum (COI) and Mil. t. tardigradum (ITS-2) while Mil. wrightae sp. nov. is most similar to Milnesium sp. (28S rRNA), Mil. variefidum (COI) and Mil. matheusi (ITS-2). Five Milnesium taxa are recorded from the African region, including the two new species from Madagascar reported in this study.
["integrative taxonomy"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Biofield Effects and Biophysics"]

Taxonomic review of the Themus (Telephorops) nepalensis species-group (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
The diagnosis of the Themus (Telephorops) nepalensis species-group is summarized. A catalogue, a key and a distribution map of all world species are provided. Two synonymies are proposed: Themus (Telephorops) subcaeruleiformis Wittmer, 1983, syn. nov. = T. (Telephorops) crassimargo Champion, 1926; T. (Telephorops) separandus Wittmer, 1975, syn. nov. = T. (Telephorops) laboissierei (Pic, 1929). The female internal genitalia are photographed and described in this species-group for the first time, the aedeagi of T. (Telephorops) crassipes Pic, 1929 and T. (Telephorops) impressipennis (Fairmaire, 1886) are illustrated and described for the first time, and some additional distribution information is provided for the species. Themus (Telephorops) cavipennis (Fairmaire, 1897) is a new record for the Chinese fauna.
["female internal genitalia"]

Species delimitation of crab-eating frogs (Fejervarya cancrivora complex) clarifies taxonomy and geographic distributions in mainland Southeast Asia
The taxonomy and geographic distributions of species of crab-eating frogs (Fejervarya cancrivora complex) in mainland Southeast Asia have been highly uncertain. Three taxonomic names are used in recent literature (F. cancrivora, F. raja, and F. moodiei) but the applications of these names to localities has been inconsistent, especially owing to the lack of available molecular data for F. raja. Morphometric and mitochondrial DNA variation was examined in these frogs, including name-bearing types and topotypes of all three species. Findings corroborate evidence for the existence of two species in coastal mainland Southeast Asia, with F. moodiei having a wide geographic distribution and F. cancrivora sensu stricto occurring only in extreme southern Thailand and peninsular Malaysia. Fejervarya raja is shown to be only a large-bodied population of F. cancrivora sensu stricto and is synonymized with that species. Revised descriptions of F. moodiei and F. cancrivora sensu stricto are provided.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

A new species of the live-bearing fish genus Poeciliopsis from northern Mexico (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae)
Poeciliopsis jackschultzi sp. nov., is described based on seven specimens (17.9–26.7 mm SL) from the Río Concepción (also known as Río Magdalena), Sonora, Mexico. The new species belongs to the Leptorhaphis species group and can be distinguished from other members of this group by features of the skeleton and colouration. The new species is sympatric with P. occidentalis, a hybridogenetic all-female biotype P. monacha-occidentalis, and hybrids between P. monacha-occidentalis females and P. jackschultzi males. The distribution of P. jackschultzi is highly restricted, and the main habitat, spring-fed marshy streams and pools, is susceptible to loss and degradation in a desert environment with increasing human water demand.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Abyssal fauna of polymetallic nodule exploration areas, eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean: Annelida: Capitellidae, Opheliidae, Scalibregmatidae, and Travisiidae
We present DNA taxonomy of abyssal polychaete worms from the eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), central Pacific Ocean, using material collected as part of the Abyssal Baseline (ABYSSLINE) environmental survey cruises ‘AB01’ and ‘AB02’ to the UK Seabed Resources Ltd (UKSRL) polymetallic nodule exploration contract area ‘UK-1’, the Ocean Mineral Singapore exploration contract area ‘OMS-1’ and an Area of Particular Environmental Interest, ‘APEI-6’. This is the fourth paper in a series to provide regional taxonomic data with previous papers reporting on Cnidaria, Echinodermata and Mollusca. Taxonomic data are presented for 23 species from 85 records within four polychaete families: Capitellidae, Opheliidae, Scalibregmatidae and Travisiidae, identified by a combination of morphological and genetic data, including molecular phylogenetic analyses. Two taxa (genetically separated from one another) morphologically matched the same known cosmopolitan species, Ophelina abranchiata that has a type locality in a different ocean basin and depth from where no genetic data was available. These two species were assigned the open nomenclature ‘cf.’ as a precautionary approach in taxon assignments to avoid over-estimating species ranges. Twelve (12) taxa are here described as new species, Ammotrypanella keenani sp. nov., Ammotrypanella kersteni sp. nov., Ophelina curli sp. nov., Ophelina ganae sp. nov., Ophelina juhazi sp. nov., Ophelina martinezarbizui sp. nov., Ophelina meyerae sp. nov., Ophelina nunnallyi sp. nov., Oligobregma brasierae sp. nov., Oligobregma tani sp. nov., Oligobregma whaleyi sp. nov. and Travisia zieglerae sp. nov. For the remaining nine taxa, we have determined them to be potentially new species, for which we make the raw data, imagery and vouchers available for future taxonomic study. The CCZ is a region undergoing intense exploration for potential deep-sea mineral extraction from polymetallic nodules. We present these data to facilitate future taxonomic and environmental impact study by making both data and voucher materials available through curated and accessible biological collections.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Two new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Liphistius Schiödte, 1849 (Mesothelae, Liphistiidae) from Myanmar
Two Liphistius species of the primitively segmented spider family Liphistiidae, collected from Loikaw (Kayah State) and Pinlaung (Shan State), Myanmar, are diagnosed and described as new to science based on their genital morphology: Liphistius hpruso sp. nov. (♀), Liphistius pinlaung sp. nov. (♂♀).
["Liphistius"]

The Passalidae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea) from Bolivia, with the descriptions of three new species
Employing data from literature, examination of specimens in collections, and a field trip, a list of the species of Passalidae from Bolivia is elaborated. A total of 38 species is reported, including new records of Passalus inca Zang, 1905 and P. lunaris (Kaup, 1871), and three new brachypterous species: Passalus bolivianus sp. nov., P. canoi sp. nov., and P. gonzalezae sp. nov. Most of the species (27) belongs to the Passalini tribe, especially to the genus Passalus Fabricius, 1792 (19 species); the Proculini tribe is represented by eleven species in three genera. The number of species of Bolivia is low and reflects the lack of a systematic exploration of this country; more surveys are needed, especially in ecosystems such as montane forest and tropical rain forest.
["bess beetles"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Placobdelloides sirikanchanae sp. nov., a new species of glossiphoniid leech and a parasite of turtles from lower southern Thailand (Hirudinea, Rhynchobdellida)
Abstract A new species of glossiphoniid leech, Placobdelloides sirikanchanae sp. nov., is reported in the Asian leaf turtle (Cyclemys dentata) and the dark-bellied leaf turtle (C. enigmatica) from Songkhla Province, southern Thailand. The examination of morphological characters revealed that this new species is similar to P. siamensis (Oka, 1917), a common turtle leech species found in Thailand. Placobdelloides sirikanchanae sp. nov. demonstrates distinct morphological characters, with an elongated, narrow body, 13–17 well-developed knob papillae on each annulus, dark brown to greenish dorsal color with a crimson median line, the absence of a scarlet dot, different male and female gonopore distributions, a rough posterior sucker with a random pit distribution, and 104–115 eggs per clutch. The phylogenetic relationships of COI-ND1 genes were clarified and shown to be distinct from those of P. siamensis. Additionally, habitat preferences tended toward low oxygen conditions such as puddles or water patches on rubber plantations.
["Clitellata"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Clarification of the status of the type series and of the holotype of Cyclophorus (Glossostylus) koboensis Godwin-Austen, 1915 (Mollusca, Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoridae) in Nantarat et al. (2014)
Here, the clarification of the “type” status for Cyclophorus (Glossostylus) koboensis Godwin-Austen, 1915 catalogued by Nantarat et al. (2014) is corrected and briefly discussed.
["Gastropoda"]

Porongurup, a new genus of pselaphine staphylinid beetles from Western Australia (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Faronitae)
A new genus and three new species of pselaphine staphylinid beetles, supertribe Faronitae, from Western Australia are described as follows: Porongurup gen. nov. is based on Porongurup angulatus sp. nov., with the two additional new species, Porongurup clarkei sp. nov. and Porongurup tenuis sp. nov. Illustrations of their habitus, and major diagnostic characters as well as a distribution map are included. A key to the species is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Description of Onthophagus humboldti and Uroxys bonplandi, two new scarab beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae) from Costa Rica, with notes on tropical mountain brachyptery and endemicity
Two new endemic species of scarab beetles are described from Costa Rica, Onthophagus humboldti sp. nov. and Uroxys bonplandi sp. nov. Onthophagus humboldti sp. nov. is also the tenth brachypterous Onthophagus species to be described worldwide, representing also a case of extreme brachyptery in Onthophagini. Illustrations for both new species, as well as marking differences with closely related species are included. Maps showing the distribution of the new species, as well as the distribution of brachypterous and endemic scarab-beetle species for Costa Rica are presented and discussed. The Cordillera de Talamanca represents an area where Scarabaeinae (four genera) show very high known levels of brachypterism in Mesoamerica. A reconstruction of the montane environment in the Cordillera de Talamanca during the Last Glacial Maximum (~24 ka) is analyzed, in order to try to understand a possible historical biogeography model that might promote high levels of brachypterism in scarab-beetles. The present study supports previous proposals that brachyptery is correlated with stable environments associated with deeply incised valleys. Tropical mountain ranges are also identified as having more endemics than lowland rain forests, contradicting accepted wisdom. Lastly, a mitochondrial DNA analysis supports the existence of the Onthophagus dicranius and the O. clypeatus species-groups as two well-defined and closely related branches.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Morphology and phylogenetic analysis of two new deep-sea species of Chrysogorgia (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Chrysogorgiidae) from Kocebu Guyot (Magellan seamounts) in the Pacific Ocean
Two new species of Chrysogorgia Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1864 collected from Kocebu Guyot in the Magellan seamounts of the Pacific Ocean are described and illustrated: Chrysogorgia ramificans sp. nov. collected from a depth of 1831 m and Chrysogorgia binata sp. nov. collected from a depth of 1669 m. Chrysogorgia ramificans sp. nov. belongs to the Chrysogorgia “group A, Spiculosae” with rods distributed in body wall and tentacles, and C. binata sp. nov. belongs to the “group C, Squamosae typicae” with rods and/or spindles not present but only scales. Chrysogorgia ramificans sp. nov. differs from congeners by its main stem with 2/5R branching sequence at the bottom forming two large bottlebrush-shaped branches with 1/3R branching sequence at the top. Chrysogorgia binata sp. nov. is similar to C. scintillans Bayer & Stefani, 1988, but differs by its larger polyps, larger sclerites in the body wall, and different scales in the upper part of polyps. The mtMutS genetic distances between C. ramificans sp. nov. and C. binata sp. nov. and congeners are in the range of 0.33%–2.28% and 0.33%–2.94%, respectively, while the intraspecific distances are in the range of 0–0.16%. Molecular phylogenetic analysis indicates that C. ramificans sp. nov. is clustered with C. monticola Cairns, 2007 and C. binata sp. nov. is clustered with C. chryseis Bayer & Stefani, 1988, both with high support indicating close relationships.
["Anthozoa"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Anastatus Motschulsky (Hymenoptera, Eupelmidae): egg parasitoids of Caligula japonica Moore (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae) in China
Four species of Anastatus Motschulsky (Hymenoptera, Eupelmidae, Eupelminae) are newly reported as egg parasitoids of the Japanese giant silkworm, Caligula japonica Moore and, as an alternate laboratory host, the Chinese oak silk moth, Antheraea pernyi (Guérin-Méneville) (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae) in China. The four species, A. fulloi Sheng & Wang, 1997, A. gansuensis Chen & Zang, sp. nov., A. japonicus Ashmead, 1904, and A. meilingensis Sheng, 1998, were reared initially from eggs of C. japonica collected in Gansu, Jilin and Liaoning provinces and subsequently cultured in the laboratory on eggs of A. pernyi. An illustrated key to differentiate females of the four species, and males of some of the species is provided. Key features are illustrated, both sexes of the new species are described, and diagnoses of females of the other species are given.
["Antheraea pernyi"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Description of Callistethus hamus sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae) from continental Southeast Asia using synchrotron to illustrate the aedeagus
A new species, Callistethus hamus Lu & Zorn, sp. nov., is described from China, Laos, and Vietnam. Additionally, we used synchrotron (Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility) to scan the aedeagus. The virtual 3D model of the aedeagus is reconstructed and provided.
["Anomalini"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Taxonomic revision of the endemic Cameroonian freshwater crab genus Louisea Cumberlidge, 1994 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura, Potamonautidae), with descriptions of two new species from Nkongsamba and Yabassi
The taxonomy of the freshwater crab genus Louisea Cumberlidge, 1994, is reviewed based on type material and newly obtained specimens from three different localities in southwestern Cameroon. The genus is endemic to Cameroon and previously included two species: L. edeaensis (Bott, 1969) (type species) from Lake Ossa wetland complex (altitudes below 400 m asl) and L. balssi (Bott, 1959) from Kumba and Mt. Manengouba (altitudes above 1300 m asl). Here two new species of Louisea are described based on morphological and/or genetic data: L. nkongsamba sp. nov. from the Nlonako Ecological Reserve (1000–1400 m asl) in the sub-montane zone and L. yabassi sp. nov. from Yabassi in the lowlands. A redescription and amended diagnostic features of L. edeaensis and L. balssi are provided, and the genus diagnosis is updated to accommodate all four species. An identification key is also provided for the species of Louisea. A tree of phylogenetic relationships based on three mtDNA loci (COI, 12S rRNA, and 16S rRNA) supports the taxonomic revision, and indicates speciation of Louisea species along an altitudinal gradient, but further phylogenetic analyses are needed to understand whether this can lend support to the hypothesis that there is a montane centre of speciation along the Cameroon Volcanic Line. The phylogenetic tree also shows that Buea Cumberlidge, Mvogo Ndongo, Clark & Daniels, 2019 and Potamonemus Cumberlidge & Clark, 1992 are sister genera that may be derived from the Louisea lineage.
["Cameroon"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A review of the genus Brachytrycherus Arrow (Coleoptera, Endomychidae) of mainland China with descriptions of three new species
This paper presents a review of the genus Brachytrycherus Arrow from mainland China. Three new species are described and illustrated: B. bipunctatus Chang & Bi, sp. nov., B. denticulatus Chang & Bi, sp. nov., and B. humeralis Chang & Bi, sp. nov. The diagnosis, distribution, type locality, biology, and ecology are provided for each species. A key to the species of Brachytrycherus known in China is updated.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Sperm ultrastructure of Pochazia shantungensis (Chou & Lu) and Ricania speculum (Walker) (Hemiptera, Ricaniidae) with phylogenetic implications
The sperm ultrastructure of two ricaniid species, Pochazia shantungensis (Chou & Lu) and Ricania speculum (Walker), was investigated using light and transmission electron microscopy. Both species have monoflagellate sperm, the shape and ultrastructure of the mature spermatozoon of these two species are similar in morphology, and 128 spermatozoa are organized into sperm bundles with their heads embedded in a homogenous matrix forming the spermatodesmata. The individual sperm is filiform and includes the head, neck and flagellum. The head is needle-like, with a bilayer acrosome and an inferior elongated nucleus which is formed of homogeneously compact and electron-dense chromatin. The neck region is indistinct and is comprised of the centriole and centriole adjunct with a homogeneous dense substance. The long flagellum has the typical 9 + 9 + 2 axoneme microtubule pattern and two symmetrical mitochondrial derivatives with an orderly array of cristae flanking both sides, and a pair of well-developed fishhook-shaped accessory bodies. Current evidence shows that ricaniid species have D-shaped mitochondrial derivatives in cross-section and a serrated electron-dense region. The phylogenetic relationship of Fulgoroidea with other superfamilies in Auchenorrhyncha is briefly discussed.
["accessory body"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Claviramus (Annelida, Sabellida, Sabellidae) from the Ariake Inland Sea, Kyushu, Japan
A new species of the sabellid polychaete genus Claviramus Fitzhugh, 2002, is described from Ariake Inland Sea, Kyushu, Japan. Claviramus is a small genus, composed of three species worldwide. Its distinctive feature is the presence of foliaceous flanges at the distal ends of the radioles. Claviramus kyushuensis sp. nov. here described is characterized by the presence of a glandular ridge on chaetiger 2, glandular shields on the abdomen, thoracic uncini bidentate, and the presence of a short, distal filament in some radioles. A key and a comparative table of diagnostic characters for species of Claviramus are provided.
["fan worms"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and environmental studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Brachionus paranguensis sp. nov. (Rotifera, Monogononta), a member of the L group of the Brachionus plicatilis complex
The Brachionus plicatilis complex represents the most studied group of rotifers, although the systematics of the species complex has not been completely clarified. Many studies have been conducted trying to explore the diversity within the complex, leading to the recognition of three major morphotypes: large (L), small-medium (SM), and small (SS). Currently six species have been described and classified under these types and another nine taxa have been identified but not formally described. Within the L group, three species have been officially described [B. plicatilis s.s. (L1), B. manjavacas (L2), and B. asplanchnoidis (L3)], while a formal description of L4, unofficially known as B. ‘Nevada’, is still lacking. In the present study, a new species, Brachionus paranguensis sp. nov., is formally described and presented as a representative of the L4 clade. The species has been named after a high altitude saline crater lake from Central Mexico, where the specimens were collected. An integrated approach using DNA taxonomy through COI and ITS1 markers, morphology, and ecology was used to confirm the identity of the new species.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

One new species and three newly recorded species of Neopallodes Reitter from China (Coleoptera, Nitidulidae, Nitidulinae)
One new species of the sap beetle genus Neopallodes, N. nigrescens sp. nov., is described and illustrated. New information on the distribution and illustrations of three species, N. dentatus Kirejtshuk, 1994, N. falsus Grouvelle, 1913 and N. vietnamicus Kirejtshuk, 1987, which are newly recorded from China, are also supplemented. A key to species of the genus Neopallodes from China is provided.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

The impact of a new genus on the molecular phylogeny of Hemisphaeriini (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae)
A new genus, Retaldar gen. nov. of the family Issidae (Hemisphaeriinae, Hemisphaeriini) is described from Guangxi Province of China. A revised molecular analysis for the Hemisphaeriini based on partial sequences of 18S, 28S, COXI and Cytb, provides evidence for a new lineage within the subtribe Mongolianina. With two subgroups of genera now identified, the monophyly of Mongolianina is discussed from both a morphological and a molecular basis.
["Hemisphaeriinae"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Systematics of Scelioninae (Hymenoptera, Platygastroidea): new synonymy, distribution, and species
The genera Doddiella Kieffer, 1913 and Aratala Dodd, 1927 are treated as junior synonyms of of Aneuroscelio Kieffer, 1913 following study of the rediscovered holotype of the type species Aneuroscelio rufipes Kieffer, 1913 (syn. nov.). The nine species previously recognized in Doddiella are all transferred to Aneuroscelio (comb. nov.). Calliscelio schlingeri (Masner & Johnson) is recognized as a junior synonym of Calliscelio vitilevuensis (Fullaway) (syn. nov.). Huddlestonium exu Polaszek & Johnson is recorded from Kenya, significantly expanding its known range from West Africa (Côte d’Ivoire, São Tomé). A new species of the genus Tyrannoscelio Masner, Johnson & Arias-Penna, T. cerradensis sp. nov, is described from Paraguay and the Center-West of Brazil (Mato Grosso). The depositories of the holotypes of five recently described are corrected.
["Caloteleia"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Establishing a new species group of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 with the description of two new species (Araneae, Sparassidae)
The huntsman spider genus Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 contains 140 species worldwide, of which 61 have been described from China. In this paper, this knowledge is increased by the description of two new species from Yunnan Province in China. These new species, P. physematosa sp. nov. (♀) and P. semilunata sp. nov. (♂♀), are treated with five previously described ones, P. bibulba Xu & Yin, 2000 (♂♀), P. signata Jäger, 2001 (♂♀), P. wu Jäger, Li & Krehenwinkel, 2015 (♂♀), P. yinae Jäger & Vedel, 2007 (♂), and P. yunnanensis Yang & Hu, 2001 (♂♀), as the newly defined Pseudopoda signata species group. The P. signata group can be distinguished from other groups within Pseudopoda by the male palps with long, slightly broad, S-shaped embolus, small but distinct tegular apophysis, pronounced dRTA and reduced vRTA, and by the female with V-shaped or W-shaped anterior margins of lateral lobes, membranous and wide first winding, long and strongly curved SIDS (sclerotised internal duct system), the latter mostly covered by the first winding. The monophyly of this group is also supported by molecular phylogenetic results mainly based on Chinese Pseudopoda species. In addition, photographs of P. bibulba (♂♀), P. signata (♂♀), and P. yunnanensis (♂♀) are provided. P. bibulba is newly recorded from Guizhou Province and P. signata is newly recorded from Yunnan Province.

New species of Xiphoscelis Burmeister, 1842 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae) from arid regions of South Africa and Namibia
Two new species of the southern African genus Xiphoscelis Burmeister, 1842 are recognised and described, X. braunsi sp. nov. from the Eastern and Western Cape Karoo (South Africa) and X. namibica sp. nov. from the Huns Mountains of southern Namibia and adjacent ranges in South Africa. These were previously overlooked and grouped together with X. schuckardi Burmeister, 1842, but further material and more in-depth analyses have now revealed their clear separation on the basis of key diagnostic features, including clypeal structure, metatibial spur development and aedeagal shape. The densely and coarsely costate elytral structure and the black to brown colour of these species are symplesiomorphies shared with a number of the most primitive genera among the African Cetoniinae. However, these characters also reflect the convergent adaptation to hot and arid conditions they share with several other species occurring in this region. Phylogenetic relationships of the genus with other Cetoniinae are explored using the larval characters highlighted in the description of the 3rd instar larva of X. braunsi sp. nov. The extraordinary hypertrophy observed in the male metatibial spur of species in this genus, and particularly in X. schuckardi, appears to represent a defence mechanism against potential predators on the ground, apart from playing a role during mating.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Protura from Hainan Island, China: new species, checklist and distribution
More than 1500 proturan specimens from Hainan Island are systematically studied. An annotated list of all species of Protura from Hainan Island is provided and their geographical distribution is discussed. The genus Paracondeellum is reported from Hainan Island for the first time, and Paracondeellum paradisum sp. nov. is described. The type species Paracondeellum dukouense (Tang & Yin, 1988) is redescribed based on syntype, and the lectotype and paralectotype are designated. The characters of the genus Paracondeellum are redefined, and the two known species are compared in detail. The Protura fauna of Hainan Island is mainly composed of species from the Oriental region, with 91% of the species belonging to the families Berberentulidae and Eosentomidae.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

Nine new species groups, 15 new species, and one new subspecies of New Guinea diving beetles of the genus Exocelina Broun, 1886 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Nine new species groups of Exocelina Broun, 1886 from New Guinea are introduced with keys to their representatives. Four groups are monotypic and include three new species: the E. aipomek group, the E. koroba group: E. koroba sp. nov., the E. mekilensis group: E. mekilensis sp. nov., and the E. morobensis group: E. morobensis sp. nov. The remaining five species groups include 18 species with 12 new species and one new subspecies: the E. bacchusi group: E. akameku sp. nov., E. oiwa sp. nov., E. oksibilensis sp. nov., and E. bacchusi herzogensis ssp. nov.; the E. jaseminae group: E. aseki sp. nov., E. kailaki sp. nov., and E. pseudojaseminae sp. nov.; the E. larsoni group: E. warahulenensis sp. nov.; the E. takime group: E. mianminensis sp. nov.; and the E. warasera group: E. haia sp. nov., E. kobau sp. nov., E. pulchella sp. nov., and E. warasera sp. nov. Diagnoses of five already described species of these groups are provided, as well as comparatives notes on all species. Exocelina santimontis (Balke, 1998) syn. nov. is a junior synonym of E. aipomek (Balke, 1998). Data on the distribution of the species are given, showing that most of the species of these groups occur in the Papua New Guinea.

Extensive sampling and thorough taxonomic assessment of Afrotropical Rhyssinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) reveals two new species and demonstrates the limitations of previous sampling efforts
Tropical forest invertebrates, such as the parasitoid wasp family Ichneumonidae, are poorly known. This work reports some of the first results of an extensive survey implemented in Kibale National Park, Uganda. A total of 456 individuals was caught of the subfamily Rhyssinae Morley, 1913, which in the Afrotropical region was previously known from only 30 specimens. Here, the six species found at the site are described and the Afrotropical Rhyssinae are reviewed. Two new species, Epirhyssa johanna Hopkins, sp. nov. and E. quagga sp. nov., are described and a key, diagnostic characters, and descriptions for all 13 known Afrotropical species are provided, including the first description of the male of Epirhyssa overlaeti Seyrig, 1937. Epirhyssa gavinbroadi Rousse & van Noort, 2014, syn. nov. is proposed to be a synonym of E. uelensis Benoit, 1951. Extensive sampling with Malaise traps gave an unprecedented sample size, and the method is recommended for other poorly known tropical areas.

Preliminary division of not socially parasitic Greek Temnothorax Mayr, 1861 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) with a description of three new species
The division of Greek members of the genus Temnothorax into 17 morphological groups is proposed. Temnothorax aveli species group is reviewed with three species: T. turcicus (Santschi) (North Aegean Islands, Sterea Ellas, Peloponnese and Thessaly), and two species new to science: Temnothorax brackoi sp. nov. (Epirus, Ionian Islands, Macedonia, Peloponnese, western Sterea Ellas, Thessaly, and also Dalmatia in Croatia), and T. messiniaensis sp. nov. (Ionian Islands and Peloponnese); a new species Temnothorax triangularis sp. nov., a member of the Temnothorax nylanderi species group is also described (Sterea Ellas: Euboea Island).
["Balkan Peninsula"]

A new species of Monstrilla (Copepoda, Monstrilloida) from the plankton of a large coastal system of the northwestern Caribbean with a key to species
The genus Monstrilla Dana, 1849 is the most diverse of the copepod order Monstrilloida. Monstrilloid copepods are endoparasites of benthic polychaetes and molluscs; adult individuals are free-living, non-feeding reproductive forms that briefly become part of the zooplankton community, where they are occasionally captured by plankton nets. Monstrilloid copepods are frequently found during routine plankton samplings of coastal and estuarine habitats, but they are rarely found in large numbers. The western sector of the Caribbean Sea is known to harbor a diverse monstrilloid fauna. The analysis of zooplankton samples obtained during nine years from Chetumal Bay, a large embayment of the Mexican Caribbean coast, yielded a male monstrilloid that was found to represent a new species. It is herein described following upgraded standards and compared with its congeners. A key to males and females of the Monstrilla species known from the northwestern Caribbean is also provided.
["estuaries"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Discovery of a new ant species of the elusive termitophilous genus Metapone in Singapore (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae), with the first detailed description of male genitalia of the genus
A new species of the rare ant genus Metapone, Metapone murphyi sp. nov., is described based on museum material consisting of a single nest series (workers, queens, and males) collected from a decayed coconut palm stump on Pulau Sakra, previously an offshore island south of mainland Singapore. Workers can be distinguished from other named congeners mainly by the following characters: 1) subpetiolar lamella subrectangular; 2) short median longitudinal ventral subpetiolar edge and roundly obtuse posteroventral subpetiolar angle; 3) outer margin of posterior subpetiolar face in posteroventral view forming a continuous, U-shaped, translucent, laminate carina; and 4) petiole subtrapezoidal in dorsal view with extended blunt tooth-like posterolateral corners. Detailed description and illustrations of male genitalia of the genus are given for the first time. The key to Asian species of Metapone is updated to include the new species.
["Museum specimens"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Six years of fruit fly surveys in Bangladesh: a new species, 33 new country records and discovery of the highly invasive Bactrocera carambolae (Diptera, Tephritidae)
We engaged in six years of snap-shot surveys for fruit flies in rural environments and ten protected forest areas of Bangladesh, using traps baited with male lures (cue-lure, methyl eugenol, zingerone). Our work has increased the recorded number of species of Tephritidae in the country from seven to 37. We summarize these surveys and report eight new country occurrence records, and a new species (Zeugodacus madhupuri Leblanc & Doorenweerd, sp. nov.) is described. The highlight among the new records is the discovery, and significant westward range extension, of Bactrocera carambolae Drew & Hancock, a major fruit pest detected in the Chattogram and Sylhet Divisions. We rectify the previously published erroneous record of Bactrocera bogorensis (Hardy), which was based on a misidentification of Zeugodacus diaphorus (Hendel). We also report the occurrence in Bangladesh of nine other Tephritidae, the rearing of three primary fruit fly parasitoids from Zeugodacus, and records of non-target attraction to fruit fly lures.
["Dacini"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

A new species of Synagoga (Crustacea, Thecostraca, Ascothoracida) parasitic in an antipatharian from Green Island, Taiwan, with notes on its morphology
A new ascothoracidan species has been discovered off Taiwan in the north part of the west Pacific at SCUBA depths. Twelve specimens including both sexes of the new species, described herein as Synagoga arabesque sp. nov., were collected from colonies of the antipatharian Myriopathes cf. japonica Brook, 1889. Three previously described species of Synagoga, morphologically the least specialized ascothoracidan genus, have been found as ectoparasites of antipatharians and an alcyonarian, whereas all other records of this genus have been based on specimens collected from the marine plankton. This is the second study of a new form of Synagoga to be based on more than a few mature specimens of a single sex or on a single juvenile. Furthermore, it is the second in which SEM has been used to document the fine-scale external morphology. The position of terminal pores in the anterior pairs of the lattice organs is different in Synagoga arabesque sp. nov. than those in S. grygieri Kolbasov & Newman, 2018 and S. millipalus Grygier & Ohtsuka, 1995. Species of Synagoga are small, host-specific predators or ectoparasites of antipatharians. This genus exhibits a major Tethyan reliction pattern.
["Ascothoracida"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Revisited – the species of Tweeting vineyard snails, genus Cantareus Risso, 1826 (Stylommatophora, Helicidae, Helicinae, Otalini)
The generic allocation of Helix subaperta is clarified by using genetic data and morphological traits of the genital organs; its position within the hitherto monotypic genus Cantareus is corroborated. Further analysis of several specimens of Cantareus apertus from Algeria and Italy revealed that this taxon is composed of two species, C. apertus from Italy, and C. koraegaelius from Algeria. The morphological traits of the genital organs of all three species are discussed, and the definition of the genus Cantareus is amended. All three species confined to Cantareus are re-described, and the syntype specimen of H. aperta is illustrated.
["Algeria"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control"]

A new species of Acerentulus Berlese, 1908 (Protura, Acerentomata, Acerentomidae) from Bulgaria with a revised key to the confinis group
A new species, Acerentulus bulgaricus sp. nov., belonging to the confinis group, is described from Bulgaria. This species is characterized by long foretarsal sensilla a and b, the posterior position of foretarsal seta δ4, the presence of seta P1a on abdominal tergites II–VII and seta P3a on abdominal tergite VII, possession of eight anterior setae on abdominal tergite VII and composed spsm pores on sternite VI. The new species differs from all members of the confinis group in possessing P1a setae on tergites II–VII. Otherwise it is similar in body chaetotaxy and porotaxy to three species of the cunhai group, A. proximus, A. correzeanus and A. tuxeni. The identification key to 22 Acerentulus species belonging to confinis group is revised.

The West Palaearctic genera of Nematinae (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae)
Keys to adults and larvae of the genera of West Palaearctic nematine sawflies are presented. Species of some of the smaller genera are keyed, and their taxonomy, distribution, and host plants reviewed, with a geographic focus on north-western Europe, particularly Sweden. Dinematus Lacourt, 2006 is a new junior subjective synonym of Pristiphora Latreille, 1810, resulting in the new combination Pristiphora krausi (Lacourt, 2006) for the type species of Dinematus. Hemichroa monticola Ermolenko, 1960 is a new junior subjective synonym of Hemichroa australis (Serville, 1823). Lectotypes are designated for Tenthredo opaca Fabricius, 1775, Mesoneura opaca var. nigerrima Enslin, 1914, Mesoneura opaca var. obscuriventris Enslin, 1914, Nematus hypogastricus Hartig, 1837, Nematus alnivorus Hartig, 1840, Leptopus rufipes Förster, 1854, Nematus protensus Förster, 1854, and Platycampus luridiventris var. pleuritica Enslin, 1915. A phylogenetic analysis based on four genes (mitochondrial COI and nuclear NaK, POL2, and TPI) supports the current generic classification.

Checklist and key for the identification of fish fauna of the Uberaba River, Upper Paraná River system, Brazil
The Uberaba River is an important right-bank tributary to the Grande River, in the Upper Paraná River system, Brazil, and the main water source for the public supply of the Uberaba city, Minas Gerais state. An inventory, an identification key, and photographs of the fish species of the Uberaba River are provided, based on samples made between 2012 and 2014 at 14 sampling sites in the river system. A total of 73 species was recorded from six orders, 20 families, and 49 genera. Characiformes and Siluriformes are the most speciose orders and Characidae and Loricariidae are the most commonly recorded families. Most species are autochthonous, nine are considered allochthonous, and two species are exotic. The Uberaba River has a diverse and heterogeneous ichthyofauna, typical of rheophilic environments, with endemic species and few non-native species.
["Brazilian Cerrado"]

Revision of the genus Ceriantheomorphe (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Ceriantharia) with description of a new species from the Gulf of Mexico and northwestern Atlantic
The present study presents a revision of the genus Ceriantheomorphe Carlgren, 1931, including redescriptions of the two presently recognized species, Ceriantheomorphe ambonensis (Kwietniewski, 1898) and Ceriantheomorphe brasiliensis (Mello-Leitão, 1919), comb. nov., and a description of the new species Ceriantheomorphe adelita sp. nov.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

New species in the sponge genus Tsitsikamma (Poecilosclerida, Latrunculiidae) from South Africa
The genus Tsitsikamma Samaai & Kelly, 2002 is to date exclusively reported from South Africa. Three species are known from the southern coast: Tsitsikamma favus Samaai & Kelly, 2002, from the Garden Route National Park Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area (MPA) and Algoa Bay; T. pedunculata Samaai, Gibbons, Kelly and Davies-Coleman, 2003, collected from Cape Recife in St. Francis Bay, and T. scurra Samaai, Gibbons, Kelly and Davies-Coleman, 2003, collected from a wreck site in a small bay west of Hout Bay on the west coast of South Africa. Here two new species are described: Tsitsikamma michaeli Parker-Nance, sp. nov., a small green purse-like species, collected from Algoa Bay, and Tsitsikamma nguni Parker-Nance, sp. nov., from The Garden Route National Park, Tsitsikamma MPA. Additional morphological characteristics, spicule morphology, and distribution records are provided for T. favus and T. pedunculata from Algoa Bay. The phylogenetic relationship of these five Tsitsikamma species is investigated.
["Algoa Bay"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis"]

Two new species of the genus Panorpa (Mecoptera, Panorpidae) from eastern China and a new synonym
Panorpa Linnaeus, 1758 is the largest genus in the scorpionfly family Panorpidae. Herein we describe two new species from eastern China, Panorpa jinhuaensis sp. nov. from Jinhua, Zhejiang Province and Panorpa menqiuleii sp. nov. from Yuexi and Huoshan, Anhui Province. Panorpa wrightae Cheng, 1957 from Mount Mogan, Zhejiang Province is considered to be a junior subjective synonym of Panorpa mokansana Cheng, 1957 from the same locality. Panorpa mokansana Cheng, 1957 is redescribed and illustrated in detail. A key to species of Panorpa from eastern China is also provided.
["Anhui"]

First checklist of mayflies (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) from Kosovo
This research provides the first systematic contribution to the mayfly (Ephemeroptera) Fauna of Kosovo. This investigation was conducted from March to November in 2017 and 2018; 32 sites were sampled covering the different freshwater ecosystems of the country. The first checklist of mayflies of Kosovo is provided. During this survey, we found 48 species belonging to 20 genera and nine families. The highest number of species belongs to the following two families, Heptageniidae (24) and Baetidae (9). This investigation is a contribution to the knowledge about taxonomy, biogeography, and ecology of mayflies of the Balkan Peninsula by giving new data on species composition and distribution range in Kosovo.

An updated checklist of the extant Western Palaearctic Dryininae (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae)
A checklist of 20 extant species of Dryininae (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae) from the Western Palaearctic subregion is presented.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First record of the genus Oodera Westwood, 1874 (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae, Cleonyminae, Ooderini) from the Arabian Peninsula, with the description of four new species
The genus Oodera Westwood, 1874 (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae, Cleonyminae) is recorded for the first time for the Arabian Peninsula, from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman. The present study is based on specimens reared from xylophagous beetle larvae of the family Buprestidae (Coleoptera) infesting dead Acacia trees from Al-Dakhiliyah and Dhofar governorates in Oman and Al-Baha, Asir and Riyadh regions in Saudi Arabia. Four new species, Oodera arabica sp. nov., O. omanensis sp. nov., O. rapuzzii sp. nov., and O. similis sp. nov. are described, illustrated and compared with closely related Oodera species. An illustrated key and the xylophagous host records of the species are also provided.
["Acacia"]

Two new species of the genus Cyanopenthe Nikitsky, 1998 (Coleoptera, Tetratomidae) from southwest China
The genus Cyanopenthe Nikitsky, 1998 is first recorded from mainland China. Two new species, C. granulata sp. nov. and C. hirtiscutellara sp. nov., are described and illustrated. This genus is redefined, and an updated key to the known species is presented.
["polypore fungus beetles"]

Two hymenopteran egg sac associates of the tent-web orbweaving spider, Cyrtophora citricola (Forskål, 1775) (Araneae, Araneidae)
We report the discovery of two wasp species emerging from egg sacs of the spider Cyrtophora citricola (Forskål 1775) collected from mainland Spain and the Canary Islands. We identify one as Philolema palanichamyi (Narendran 1984) (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae) and the other as a member of the Pediobius pyrgo (Walker 1839) species group (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae). This is the first report of Philolema in Europe, and the first documentation of hymenopteran egg predators of C. citricola. The latter finding is particularly relevant, given the multiple invasive populations of C. citricola in the Americas and the Caribbean, where neither egg sac predation nor parasitism is known to occur. We describe rates of emergence by Ph. palanichamyi from spider egg sacs collected from the southern coast of Spain and estimate sex ratios and body size variation among males and females. We also re-describe Ph. palanichamyi based on the female holotype and male paratype specimens.
["colonial spider"]

A new genus of air-breathing marine slugs from South-East Asia (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Onchidiidae)
As part of an ongoing effort to revise the taxonomy of air-breathing, marine, onchidiid slugs, a new genus, Laspionchis Dayrat & Goulding, gen. nov., is described from the mangroves of South-East Asia. It includes two new species, Laspionchis boucheti Dayrat & Goulding, sp. nov., and Laspionchis bourkei Dayrat & Goulding, sp. nov., both distributed from the Malacca Strait to the Philippines and Australia. This study is based on extensive field work in South-East Asia, comparative anatomy, and both mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and nuclear (ITS2 and 28S) DNA sequences. The two new species are found in the same habitat (mud surface in mangrove forests) and are externally cryptic but are distinct anatomically. Both species are also strongly supported by DNA sequences. Three cryptic, least-inclusive, reciprocally-monophyletic units within Laspionchis bourkei are regarded as subspecies: L. bourkei bourkei Dayrat & Goulding, ssp. nov., L. bourkei lateriensis Dayrat & Goulding, ssp. nov., and L. bourkei matangensis Dayrat & Goulding, ssp. nov. The present contribution shows again that species delineation is greatly enhanced by considering comparative anatomy and nuclear DNA sequences in addition to mitochondrial DNA sequences, and that thorough taxonomic revisions are the best and most efficient path to accurate biodiversity knowledge.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

The genus Saissetia (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Coccidae) in China, with description of a new species
Saissetia kunmingensis Cao & Feng, sp. nov., a member of the genus Saissetia Kanda, 1960, is a new species in China that is described and illustrated in this study, based on adult females. This species was found on Osmanthus fragrans (Oleaceae) plants from Kunming, Yunnan Province (China). An updated key to females of the eight species of Saissetia which occur in China was developed.
["Coccoidea"]

A new species of freshwater crab of the genus Mediapotamon Türkay & Dai, 1997 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura, Potamidae) from Guizhou, China
A new species of Mediapotamon Türkay & Dai, 1997 from a karst system in southwest China is described. The new species can be separated from congeners by the combination of a sharp and distinct epibranchial tooth, the anterolateral region lined with few scattered granules, the terminal segment of the male first gonopod distinctly bent with a constant diameter, and the position of the female vulvae. Mitochondrial 16S rDNA genetic data was used to investigate the systematic position of the new species, which is supported as a new taxon.
["freshwater crab"]

Seagrass Halodule wrightii as a new habitat for the amphioxus Branchiostoma californiense (Cephalochordata, Branchiostomidae) in the southern Gulf of California, Mexico
The first record of the amphioxus Branchiostoma californiense on seagrass patches of Halodule wrightii in the Gulf of California is reported. Sixty individuals (19 males, 18 females, and 23 undifferentiated) were collected in May 2017 at Bahía Balandra, Gulf of California, from subtidal seagrass patches at a depth of 0.5 m at low tide. The length and weight ranged from 15.88–28.44 mm and from 0.01–0.11 g for females and 11.7–27.9 mm and 0.01–0.09 g for males, respectively. The minimum size of sexually mature individuals was 11.70 mm for males and 15.88 mm for females; 62% of the specimens were sexually mature. Analysis of the total length-weight relationship suggested an allometric growth pattern among females, males and undifferentiated individuals, whereas an analysis of the entire sample suggested an isometric growth pattern. Typical and additional morphological characters were used to identify the amphioxi. High morphological variability between individuals was found, suggesting the presence of several morphotypes. Branchiostoma californiense had been previously reported as exclusively associated with bare sandy areas, but our study shows that this species can also be found in seagrass patches, using them as breeding and feeding grounds. Thus, seagrass patches are evidenced as suitable habitats for amphioxus.
["Allometric growth pattern"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Description of a new species of Membranobalanus (Crustacea, Cirripedia) from southern Australia
A new species of sponge-inhabiting barnacle, Membranobalanus porphyrophilus sp. nov., is described herein. This species can be distinguished from all other congeners by a combination of characters, in particular by the shapes of the tergum and scutum and the armament of the cirri. COI sequence data from the type specimens have been lodged with GenBank and a morphological key to the species of Membranobalanus is provided to aid future research. The host of the new species is the southern Australian endemic demosponge Spheciospongia purpurea. The new species of barnacle is thought to be host species specific.
["Archaeobalanidae"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Description of two deep-water copepods of the genus Leptotachidia Becker from the northwestern Pacific (Harpacticoida, Pseudotachidiidae)
The monospecific genus Leptotachidia Becker, 1974 (Pseudotachidiidae Lang, 1936) was previously known only from the deep Atlantic. Female specimens of two unknown species of this genus were collected from abyssal sediments during an expedition to the northwestern Pacific on board research vessel ISABU (Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology) in November 2017. In this paper we describe the females of two new species, L. senaria sp. nov. and L. apousia sp. nov. The new species were attributed to the genus Leptotachidia by the combination of the five-segmented female antennule, presence of the Brodskaya organ on the distal antennulary segment, and the second exopodal segments of second to fourth legs without inner setae. An outstanding character of both Pacific species is the reduced armature of thoracic legs in contrast to the type species, L. iberica Becker, 1974. In addition, the setal armature of L. senaria sp. nov. and L. apousia sp. nov. is unique within the genus in that the female leg 5 of L. senaria sp. nov. has six elements instead of five; and the antennary exopod of L. apousia sp. nov. bears a single seta on the proximal segment instead of two. This is the first record of Leptotachidia from the Pacific. A key to all three species of Leptotachidia is provided.
["abyssal harpacticoids"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Revision of Claraeola (Diptera, Pipunculidae) in the Middle East based on morphology and DNA barcodes
The Middle East species of Claraeola Aczél (Diptera, Pipunculidae) are revised based on morphological characteristics and sequence data from the mitochondrial COI barcoding gene, using a novel COI mini-barcode protocol. Four new Claraeola species are described: C. bousynterga Motamedinia & Skevington, sp. nov., C. heidiae Motamedinia & Skevington, sp. nov., C. khuzestanensis Motamedinia & Skevington, sp. nov., and C. mantisphalliga Motamedinia & Skevington, sp. nov. Eudorylas thekkadiensis Kapoor, Grewal & Sharma, 1987 is transferred to Claraeola, C. thekkadiensis (comb. nov.). Diagnoses, illustrations, an identification key, and a distributional map are given for the Middle East species.
["big-headed flies"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

New Oligoneuriidae (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) from Iran
Two new species of the mayfly family Oligoneuriidae are described based on larval specimens recently collected in Iran. The first new species, Oligoneuriella tuberculata Godunko & Staniczek, sp. nov., can be distinguished from all its congeners by the presence of pronounced protuberances posteromedially on abdominal terga, highly reduced paracercus, large lamella of gill I, and setation on hind margin of middle and hind femora confined to their basal halves. The second species, Oligoneuriopsis villosus Bojková, Godunko, & Staniczek, sp. nov., remarkably belongs to a mostly Afrotropical genus. The new species clearly differs from all its congeners in the shape of setae on the surface of gills and terga, pattern of body colouration, and the shape of posterolateral projections of abdominal segments. Except for the species description, the generic diagnosis of Oligoneuriopsis Crass, 1947 is briefly discussed. COI barcode sequences of both new species are provided and molecular species delimitation is tested using distance-based and likelihood-based approaches, with both new species unambiguously recognised as separate lineages. The analysis of COI also corroborates the respective affinities of both new species, estimated based on morphology. The two new species of Oligoneuriidae described herein highlight the importance of the Middle East as a centre of diversity of this mayfly family within the Palaearctic.

Population structure of Aphyocypris normalis: phylogeography and systematics
Aphyocypris normalis (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) is an endemic species in South China, but little is known about its genetic structure. This study examined the population structure of A. normalis using sequences of the mitochondrial DNA control region and cytochrome b gene (2,086 bp). In total, 107 specimens were collected from nine populations. All 105 mtDNA haplotypes were identified as belonging to two allopatric phylogroups. The results of a statistical dispersal-vicariance analysis (S-DIVA) suggested that the ancestral populations of A. normalis were distributed widely on Hainan Island and east of the Leizhou Peninsula. A comparison of the fixation indices NST (0.532) and GST (0.004) revealed that the phylogeny and geography had a significant relationship. Our study found that (1) the Wuzhishan and Yinggeling Mountain Range was an important barrier limiting gene exchange between populations on both sides; (2) cyclic climate changes may have shaped migrations and population differentiations; and (3) different colonization times caused different population diversities between codistributed species. In addition, the inter- and intraspecific diversities of the genus Aphyocypris were estimated.
["Dispersal"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A first phylogenetic study on stoloniferous octocorals off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, with the description of two new genera and five new species
Sabah, Malaysia, is well known for its extensive and diverse coral reefs. It is located on the northwestern edge of the Coral Triangle, the region with the highest marine biodiversity. Much of the marine fauna here is still unknown, especially inconspicuous animals, such as small stoloniferous octocorals, which are common on coral reefs. Here, we describe two new monospecific genera of the family Arulidae found off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, East Malaysia; Bunga payung gen. nov. et sp. nov. and Laeta waheedae gen. nov. et sp. nov. As well, the stoloniferan genus Phenganax Alderslade & McFadden, 2011 belonging to the family Clavulariidae is expanded with three new species, P. marumi sp. nov., P. subtilis sp. nov., and P. stokvisi sp. nov., which are all sclerite-free. Additionally, we report a possibly undescribed species, closely related to the clavulariid genera Azoriella Lopez-Gonzalez & Gili, 2001 and Cervera Lopez-Gonzalez et al., 1995. As this and other recent studies have shown, discoveries of small stoloniferous octocorals are helping to fill gaps in our knowledge of the overall systematics of Octocorallia.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Chyromyidae (Diptera, Acalyptrata) of Turkey
The Chyromyidae of Turkey are reviewed and all 15 species known from the country are listed. The following are new records: Chyromya miladae Andersson, 1976, Gymnochiromyia inermis (Collin, 1933), Aphaniosoma approximatum Becker, 1903, A. micromacro Carles-Tolrá, 2001, A. propinquans Collin, 1949 and A. proximum Ebejer, 1998.
["Brachycera"]

The distribution of the genus Sphecodes Latreille (Hymenoptera, Halictidae) of the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding countries with description of hitherto unknown female of S. atlanticus Warncke, 1992 and male of S. dathei Schwarz, 2010
This study summarises all available information on the bees of the genus Sphecodes in the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding countries (Israel, Jordan, and Syria). Twenty-six species are currently known from this area, while five species are newly recorded from the Arabian Peninsula: Sphecodes atlanticus Warncke, 1992 (Saudi Arabia, Yemen), S. intermedius Blüthgen, 1923 (UAE), S. nomioidis Pesenko, 1979 (UAE, Oman), S. puncticeps Thomson, 1870 (Saudi Arabia), and S. turanicus Astafurova & Proshchalykin, 2017 (Saudi Arabia). In addition, twelve species are newly recorded from Jordan, six for Syria, and four for Israel. The female of S. atlanticus Warncke, 1992 and the male of S. dathei Schwarz, 2010 are here described for the first time and a lectotype is designated for S. intermedius Blüthgen, 1923.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

When barcoding fails: development of diagnostic nuclear markers for the sibling caddisfly species Sericostoma personatum (Spence in Kirby & Spence, 1826) and Sericostoma flavicorne Schneider, 1845
The larval stages of the central European sibling caddisfly species Sericostoma personatum (Spence in Kirby and Spence, 1826) and S. flavicorne Schneider, 1845 are morphologically similar and can only be distinguished by differences in coloration in late larval instars. Identification using the mitochondrial barcoding gene, i.e., the Cytochrome c Oxidase 1, is impossible, as both species share the same highly differentiated haplotypes due to introgression. Nuclear gene markers obtained through double digest restriction site associate sequencing (ddRAD seq), however, can reliably distinguish both species, yet the method is expensive as well as time-consuming and therefore not practicable for species determination. To facilitate accurate species identification without sequencing genome-wide markers, we developed nine diagnostic nuclear RFLP markers based on ddRAD seq data. The markers were successfully tested on geographically distinct populations of the two Sericostoma species in western Germany, on known hybrids, and on another sericostomatid caddisfly species, Oecismus monedula (Hagen, 1859) that sometimes shares the habitat and can be morphologically confounded with Sericostoma. We describe a simple and fast protocol for reliable species identification of S. personatum and S. flavicorne independent of the life cycle stage of the specimens.
["Freshwater biodiversity"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Close relationship between the genera Sinhomidia and Homidia (Collembola, Entomobryidae) revealed by adult and first instar characters, with description of a new Sinhomidia species
A third species of the genus Sinhomidia is described from South China: S. uniseta sp. nov. This new species can be distinguished from the two other species of the genus by the following characters: colour pattern, single labial chaeta M, chaetotaxy on terga and ventral tube, unguis with three inner teeth, and 15 clypeal ciliated chaetae. Also, the chaetotaxy of the first instar of Sinhomidia is described for the first time in the present paper, and confirms the close relationship between Sinhomidia and Homidia. A key to species of Sinhomidia is provided.
["chaetotaxy"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Three new species of the genus Falcileptoneta Komatsu, 1970 (Araneae, Leptonetidae) from Korea
Three new species of the genus Falcileptoneta Komatsu, 1970 belonging to the spider family Leptonetidae Simon 1890 are described from Korea. All species were collected from wet leaf litter layers.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Discovery of a specialist Copelatinae fauna on Madagascar: highly ephemeral tropical forest floor depressions as an overlooked habitat for diving beetles (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
Diving beetles are generally aquatic and live submerged in water during larval and adult stages. A few groups have colonised hygropetric habitats and fewer species still can possibly be referred to as terrestrial. Here we describe six new Copelatine species that were mainly found in dry shallow forest floor depressions in the eastern and northeastern lowland humid forests of Madagascar. Three new species are described in each of the two genera Copelatus and Madaglymbus: Copelatus amphibius sp. nov., Copelatus betampona sp. nov., Copelatus zanatanensis sp. nov., Madaglymbus kelimaso sp. nov., Madaglymbus menalamba sp. nov., and Madaglymbus semifactus sp. nov. Diagnosis, description, known distribution, ecology, and conservation notes are provided for each species. All species are illustrated with a dorsal habitus image, ventral and lateral views of the male penis, and parameres. Photographs of the unusual terrestrial habitats where the species were found are provided. Madaglymbus menalamba sp. nov. is also documented with macrophotos and videorecordings of the terrestrial locomotion and behaviour in the field. Although these species should not be classified as terrestrial, or even semi-terrestrial Dytiscidae, they seem to be specialists of very ephemeral aquatic habitats and stay put instead of disperse when the habitat dries up. It is hypothesised that this lifestyle and behaviour on Madagascar is restricted to the high-precipitation humid forest regions mainly in the east. It may also represent a transition step, or stepping-stone, towards becoming fully terrestrial, a step that the few known terrestrial Dytiscid taxa once passed through. It is very likely that this type of habitat is overlooked for aquatic beetles, not only in Madagascar, and the six species herein described may be just the “tip of the iceberg”.
["Analalava"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of the genus Takydromus (Squamata, Lacertidae) from southwestern Guangdong, China
A new species, Takydromus yunkaiensis J. Wang, Lyu, & Y.Y. Wang, sp. nov. is described based on a series of specimens collected from the Yunkaishan Nature Reserve located in the southern Yunkai Mountains, western Guangdong Province, China. The new species is a sister taxon to T. intermedius with a genetic divergence of 8.0–8.5% in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, and differs from all known congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) body size moderate, SVL 37.8–56.0 mm in males, 42.6–60.8 mm in females; (2) dorsal ground color brown; ventral surface green to yellow-green, but light blue-green on chin and throat, posteriorly green in adult males; (3) dorsolateral lines paired, strikingly yellowish-white bordered by black above and below, invisible or indistinct in juveniles and adult females; (4) flanks of body blackish brown with light brown marks in adult males; (5) presence of four pairs of chin-shields; (6) four supraoculars on each side; (7) presence of a row of supracilary granules that separate supracilaries from supraoculars; (8) two postnasals; (9) enlarged dorsal scales in six longitudinal rows on trunk of body, with strong keel; (10) enlarged ventral scales in six longitudinal rows, strongly keeled in males, smooth but outermost rows weakly keeled in females; (11) enlarged and keeled lateral scales in a row above ventrals; (12) femoral pores 2–3 on each side; (13) subdigital lamellae 20–23 under the fourth finger, 23–30 under the fourth toe; and (14) the first 2–3 subdigital lamellae under the fourth toe divided. The discovery of Takydromus yunkaiensis sp. nov. brings the total number of species of this genus to 24, of which nine occur in mainland China.
["grass lizard"]

Two new species of Molophilus Curtis from the Mediterranean and Transcaucasia (Diptera, Limoniidae)
Two new species of the genus Molophilus Curtis, 1833 are described, Molophilus (Molophilus) rohaceki sp. nov. (Italy: Calabria) and M. (M.) soldani sp. nov. (Azerbaijan), and their male terminalia are illustrated.
["Limoniid Crane Flies"]

Three new species of the planthopper genus Sinonissus Wang, Shi & Bourgoin, 2018 from southwest China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae)
The diagnostic characters of the Chinese planthopper genus Sinonissus Wang, Shi & Bourgoin, 2018 are redefined. Three new species of this genus, S. daozhenensis Chang & Chen, sp. nov. (Guizhou), S. hamulatus Chang & Chen, sp. nov. (Guizhou) and S. longicaudus Chang & Chen, sp. nov. (Sichuan) are described and illustrated, and their female genitalia compared. A checklist and key to the Chinese species of Sinonissus are given.
["Female genitalia"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

New data on the western Balkan leuciscids Alburnoides and Alburnus (Teleostei, Leuciscidae) from the Vjosa River, Albania
The first voucher-confirmed record of Alburnus scoranza and the first morphological description of Alburnoides for the Vjosa River system in Albania are reported with a brief discussion of the diagnostic morphological traits and taxonomic assignment of both species.

Redescription of Borboropactus jiangyong Yin, Peng, Yan & Kim, 2004 (Araneae, Thomisidae), with the first description of the male
The male of Borboropactus jiangyong Yin, Peng, Yan & Kim, 2004 is described for the first time from Jinggang Mountain, Ji’an City, Jiangxi Province, China. Based on male and female specimens, the species is redescribed, comprehensively illustrated, and its geographic distribution in China is delimited and discussed.

Re-description of the type species of the genera Ganesella Blanford, 1863 and Globotrochus Haas, 1935; with description of a new Ganesella species from Thailand (Eupulmonata, Camaenidae)
The taxonomy of the speciose genus Ganesella W.T. Blanford, 1863 and the endemic genus Globotrochus Haas, 1935 is unclear since the anatomical characters of the the type species of these two genera have never been reported before. Therefore, the present paper provides the first anatomical descriptions of the reproductive apparatus, pallial system and radula of Helix capitium Benson, 1848 and Helix onestera Mabille, 1887, the respective type species of Ganesella and Globotrochus. In addition, Ganesella rhombostoma (Pfeiffer, 1861) and Ganesella carinella (Möllendorff, 1902) from Thailand are re-described, and a new species, Ganesella halabalah Sutcharit & Panha, sp. nov., from southern Thailand is described. This new species differs from all others by having a larger shell, an obtuse apex and an aperture lip with a prominent beak-like deflection.
["anatomy"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Study of Mite Species"]

Further study of two Chinese cave spiders (Araneae, Mysmenidae), with description of a new genus
The current paper expands knowledge of two Chinese cave spider species originally described in the genus Maymena Gertsch, 1960: M. paquini Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009 and M. kehen Miller, Griswold & Yin, 2009. With the exception of these two species, the genus Maymena is endemic to the western hemisphere, and new evidence presented here supports the creation of a new genus for the Chinese species, which we name Yamaneta gen. nov. The male of Y. kehen is described for the first time. Detailed illustrations of the habitus, male palps and epigyne are provided for these two species, as well as descriptions of their webs. DNA sequences are provided for both Yamaneta species. We build on a previously published phylogenetic analysis of Mysmenidae to assess the phylogenetic position of Yamaneta and its relationship to true Maymena.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

The first proven oxychilid land snail endemic to China (Eupulmonata, Gastrodontoidea)
A new and the first proven oxychilid species endemic to China is reported from Sichuan Province. Sinoxychilus gen. nov. is established based on this new species and has diagnostic traits of the sculptured protoconch, partial epiphallus wrapped by developed penis sheath, penial retractor muscle inserting on the top of penial caecum, spinelets on penial pilasters, absence of epiphallic papilla and perivaginal gland present on vagina and proximal bursa copulatrix duct. In light of shell morphology and through geometric morphometric analyses, Zonites scrobiculatus scrobiculatus Gredler and Z. scrobiculatus hupeina Gredler are proposed to be included in the new genus. A phylogenetic inference based on ITS2 gene indicates that the new genus is systematically close to Oxychilus Fitzinger, which is known from the Western Palearctic and the Southwestern Arabian Peninsula, regions that are geographically far from the distribution range of the new genus.
["Geometric morphometric analysis"]

Natural history collections as a basis for sound biodiversity assessments: Plexauridae (Octocorallia, Holaxonia) of the Naturalis CANCAP and Tyro Mauritania II expeditions
Mapping biodiversity is the marathon of the 21st Century as an answer to the present extinction crisis. A century in which science is also characterised by large scientific datasets collected through new technologies aiming to fill gaps in our knowledge of species distributions. However, most species records rely on observations that are not linked to specimens, which does not allow verification of species hypotheses by other scientists. Natural history museums form a verifiable source of biodiversity records which were made by taxonomists. Nonetheless, these museums seem to be forgotten by biologists in scientific fields other than taxonomy or systematics. Naturalis Biodiversity Center (NBC) in Leiden is care keeper of large collections of marine organisms, which were sampled in the Northeast Atlantic during the CANCAP and Tyro Mauritania II expeditions (1976–1988). Many octocorals were sampled and deposited in the NBC collection, where they became available for study and were partially identified by the senior author (M.G.) in the 1980s. Nonetheless, no checklist or taxonomic revision was published so far with the complete results. In 2016 the first author visited NBC to examine NE Atlantic Plexauridae octocorals. Plexauridae octocoral-vouchered records were listed and mapped to reveal high standard primary biodiversity records unreported so far for the NE Atlantic Ocean. Twenty-four Plexauridae species with ~ six putative new species to science were discovered and eleven new biogeographical records were made from distinct Macaronesian archipelagos. Finally, new depth range records were found for three species at sea basin level and for eight species at a regional scale.
["Alcyonacea"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Three new species of Heteromastus (Annelida, Capitellidae) from Korean waters, with genetic evidence based on two gene markers
Three undescribed species of Heteromastus Eisig, 1887 were collected from intertidal to sublittoral habitats in western and southern waters of Korea. Heteromastus namhaensis sp. nov. is distinguishable from other congeners by the presence of hemispheric notopodial lobes in the posterior abdomen. Heteromastus gusipoensis sp. nov. closely resembles H. tohbaiensis Yabe & Mawatari, 1998 in the absence of posteriorly extended abdominal notopodial lobes, but differs in the absence of eyespots on the prostomium and distinct node on the shaft of thoracic hooks in H. gusipoensis. Heteromastus koreanus sp. nov. is similar to H. filiformis sensu Hutchings & Rainer, 1982 in the shape of abdominal notopodia, but clearly differs in dentition of the abdominal hooks and methylene green staining pattern (MGSP). DNA sequences (mtCOI and histone H3) of these new Korean species were compared with all sequences of Heteromastus species available in the public database. Molecular results showed distinct genetic differences among these three new Korean species at species level. Comparison of mtCOI gene revealed significant genetic difference between H. filiformis and these Korean species. A comprehensive comparison between three Heteromastus species of present study and their closely related congeners is conducted based on morphological and genetic results.
["Genetic comparison"]

Taxonomic revision of the genus Copelatus of Madagascar (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae): the non- erichsonii group species
The genus Copelatus Erichson, 1832 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae) of Madagascar is revised in two parts. This review is restricted to the Copelatus species that have fewer than ten elytral + one submarginal stria, including all species except those of the erichsonii species group. Both morphological and molecular (mitochondrial COI) data are used in an integrative taxonomic approach. Thirteen species are recognised, of which five are described as new: Copelatus ankaratra sp. nov., Copelatus kely sp. nov., Copelatus pseudostriatus sp. nov., Copelatus safiotra sp. nov. and Copelatus vokoka sp. nov. Copelatus unguicularis Régimbart, 1903 and Copelatus apicalis Fairmaire, 1898 are both transferred to the genus Madaglymbus Shaverdo & Balke, 2008 (comb. nov.). Copelatus mimetes Guignot 1957 is a junior synonym of the widespread Afrotropical–Arabian Copelatus pulchellus (Klug, 1834) (syn. nov.). Copelatus marginipennis (Laporte, 1835) is reinstated (stat. nov.) as a valid species with Copelatus aldabricus Balfour-Browne, 1950 and Copelatus aldabricus var. simplex Guignot, 1952 as junior synonyms (syn. nov.). We designate lectotypes for Colymbetes marginipennis Laporte, 1835 and Copelatus obtusus Boheman, 1848. Copelatus peridinus Guignot, 1955 is recorded for Madagascar for the first time and Copelatus nodieri Régimbart, 1895 is rejected as a species present in Madagascar.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Tipula (Vestiplex) butvilai sp. nov., a new crane fly (Diptera, Tipulidae) from Yunnan, China
A new crane fly, Tipula (Vestiplex) butvilai sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on new material collected in the Nu Jiang Valley of Yunnan Province, China. The hypopygium for the most closely related species, Tipula (Vestiplex) testata Alexander, 1935, is also illustrated. A key is provided to distinguish males of the new species from those of other species in the T. (V.) bicornigera Alexander, 1938 species group.
["hypopygium"]

Fourteen new species of the spider genus Thaiderces from Southeast Asia (Araneae, Psilodercidae)
Fourteen new species of the genus Thaiderces F.Y. Li & S.Q. Li, 2017 from Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand are described: T. shuzi Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. peterjaegeri Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂), T. ganlan Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. ngalauindahensis Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂), T. yangcong Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. zuichun Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♀), T. miantiao Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♀), T. jiazi Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♀), T. tuoyuan Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. fengniao Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. haima Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂♀), T. chujiao Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♀), T. thamphadaengensis Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂♀), and T. thamprikensis Li & Chang, sp. nov. (♂♀). In addition, two species of Psiloderces Simon, 1892 are transferred to Thaiderces: Thaiderces rimbu (Deeleman-Reinhold, 1995) comb. nov. (♂♀) and Thaiderces djojosudharmoi (Deeleman-Reinhold, 1995) comb. nov. (♂♀).
["endemic"]

Systematics of Huicundomantis, a new subgenus of Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) with extraordinary cryptic diversity and eleven new species
Pristimantis is the most diverse genus of tetrapods comprising 532 described species. It contains a large number of morphologically cryptic species that are being discovered with the assistance of genetic evidence. We use molecular, morphological, bioacoustic, and environmental data to assess the phylogenetic relationships and determine the species within an Andean clade of Pristimantis, which is distributed from central Ecuador to northern Peru. We assign to this clade the name Huicundomantis and propose it as a subgenus. Our results show that Huicundomantis is composed of two large clades which we name as the P. phoxocephalus species group and the P. cryptomelas species group. Huicundomantis is composed of 28 species of which 12 have been described and 16 are new. We describe 11 of these undescribed species. The most effective characters to discriminate among species are DNA sequences, qualitative morphology, and advertisement calls. Morphometric and environmental characters are not very useful to define species limits. We clarify the identity of P. riveti and show that populations from southern Ecuador traditionally ascribed to P. riveti are a new species, P. lutzae sp. nov. We also show that P. prometeii is a junior synonym of P. hampatusami. The current diversity and geographic distribution of Huicundomantis are consistent with a model of allopatric speciation. All species have a restricted distribution range (less than 4330 km2) and are assigned to the Red List categories Data Deficient or threatened with extinction. We provide new reasons to increase conservation efforts for these species and their habitat. Taking our results into account, Pristimantis species richness in Ecuador increases from 211 to 221 species, and the number of species endemic to Ecuador from 119 to 129.

Thraumata, a new genus from South America with description of a new species from Peru (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
Thraumata gen. nov. is described to accommodate three South American species, two previously placed in Phuphena Walker, 1858, namely Thraumata petrovna (Schaus, 1904), comb. nov. and Thraumata subvenata (Schaus, 1914), comb. nov.; and one, Thraumata peruviensia sp. nov., newly described from Peru. Although the larval biology is unknown, these species share several features that suggest their placement in Eriopinae and, as a consequence, a potential association with ferns (Pteridophyta) as larval host plants.
["Phuphena"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Notes on braconid wasps (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) parasitising on Agrilus mali Matsumura (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) in China
Braconid parasitoids reared from Malus sieversii and Malus domestica trees in NW China infested by Agrilus mali Matsumura (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) are illustrated and discussed. Six species were found parasitising Agrilus mali in NW China, namely, Atanycolus ivanowi (Kokujev) (Braconinae), Doryctes undulatus (Ratzeburg), Pareucorystes varinervis Tobias, Polystenus rugosus Foerster, Spathius sinicus Chao, and Spathius brevicaudis Ratzeburg (Doryctinae). All listed species are newly recorded parasitoids of Agrilus mali. Pareucorystes varinervis and Spathius brevicaudis are new records for the Chinese fauna, but Spathius brevicaudis has been recorded from Taiwan before. Both sexes of Spathius brevicaudis are redescribed here to allow inclusion in the recent revision of the Chinese Spathius species. An identification key to the six braconid parasitoids of Agrilus mali in NW China is provided.
["Agrilus mali"]

Three new species of the genus Neophyllomyza Melander (Diptera, Milichiidae) from China, with a revised key to the Chinese species
Three new species of the genus Neophyllomyza, N. clavipalpis sp. nov., N. motuoensis sp. nov., and N. obtusa sp. nov., are described from China. A revised key to the six Chinese species of Neophyllomyza is also presented.
["Diptera"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies"]

New and little known Latindiinae (Blattodea, Corydiidae) from China, with discussion of the Asian genera and species
A new Latindiinae, Brachylatindia xui gen. et sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Tibet, China. The new genus Beybienkonus gen. nov. is established to include Beybienkonus acuticercus (Bey-Bienko, 1957), comb. nov. The Asian Latindiinae is discussed with a total of six genera included. A checklist of Asian species and a key to the Asian genera of Latindiinae are provided.
["Brachylatindia"]

A new species and new record of the cryptobiotic ant genus Ponera Latreille, 1804 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Hong Kong
Despite its small size, Hong Kong hosts a surprising level of ant diversity. Through faunal studies on arthropods conducted in Hong Kong over recent years, a new record and species of the genus Ponera have been discovered, which are introduced here. Ponera guangxiensis Zhou, 2001 is reported for the first time from Hong Kong, and Ponera tudigong sp. nov. is here described as a new species, easily distinguishable from other Ponera species and unique within the genus for its four mandibular teeth.

Description of a new species of cynopoeciline killifish (Cyprinodontiformes, Aplocheilidae), possibly extinct, from the Atlantic Forest of south-eastern Brazil
Specimens found between 1985 and 1988 in the Magé River Basin, south-eastern Brazil were misidentified as L. splendens. The recent rediscovery of other specimens in the Estrela River Basin near the type locality of L. splendens has clarified the species’ concept, making it possible to recognise the Magé River Basin specimens as a new species. The new species is herein described as Leptopanchax sanguineus sp. nov. and is distinguished from all other cynopoecilines by a unique colour pattern in males, including red bars with sinuous margins. It was collected in a well-preserved, temporary shallow swampy area within dense moist forest, but since 1990 the species has not been found again. Leptopanchax sanguineus sp. nov. is one of three species of cynopoeciline killifishes living in lowland moist forests of the coastal plains of Rio de Janeiro State, where the greatest diversity of endemic cynopoecilines is concentrated. Each of these species has been recorded a single time in the last 30 years, a surprisingly low record attributable to intense deforestation during the last several decades resulting in small fragmented lowland moist forests of today. This study indicates that seasonal killifishes adapted to uniquely live in this kind of habitat should be regarded with special concern in studies evaluating conservation priorities.

The genus Dixa (Diptera, Dixidae) in Croatian lotic habitats, with a checklist of species and relationships with the fauna of neighbouring countries
Invertebrate surveys in Croatia conducted between 2005 and 2018 included 39 sampling sites yielding bycatch samples of Dixidae (Diptera). All records of this family from the territory of Croatia are summarized, including previously unpublished data. Collections contained six species of Dixa Meigen – D. dilatata Strobl, D. maculata Meigen, D. nebulosa Meigen, D. nubilipennis Curtis, D. puberula Loew, and D. submaculata Edwards, with Dixa dilatata reported from Croatia for the first time. Information relating to the ecoregions in which species were found and specific species traits are provided. Compared to neighbouring countries, the Croatian species assemblage is most similar to the fauna of Italy and least similar to that of Serbia and Montenegro.
["Meniscus midges"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Aprica: a new genus and life history for the pteridivore Xanthia patula Druce, 1898 (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
Aprica Goldstein, gen. nov. is described to accommodate Xanthia patula Druce, 1898. Recent discovery of its larva, which has been recorded eating foliage of species in six families of leptosporangiate ferns, suggest a possible subfamily assignment within the Eriopinae, but this cannot be substantiated based on adult morphology. This species has no obvious close relatives either among the core noctuid pteridivore genera currently recognized in the Eriopinae (e.g., Callopistria Hübner, [1821]), nor among genera more recently discovered to be fern-feeders but which remain incertae sedis with respect to subfamily (e.g., Leucosigma Druce, 1908, Lophomyra Schaus, 1911). The recorded foodplant profile is similar to that of another ambiguously placed Nearctic species Fagitana littera (Guenée, 1852) (Noctuidae: Noctuinae: Xylenini, incertae sedis) with which it shares no obvious synapomorphies.
["Area de Conservacion Guanacaste (ACG)"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Pollinators on the polar edge of the Ecumene: taxonomy, phylogeography, and ecology of bumble bees from Novaya Zemlya
The High Arctic bumble bee fauna is rather poorly known, while a growing body of recent molecular research indicates that several Arctic species may represent endemic lineages with restricted ranges. Such local endemics are in need of special conservation efforts because of the increasing anthropogenic pressure and climate changes. Here, we re-examine the taxonomic and biogeographic affinities of bumble bees from Novaya Zemlya using historical samples and recently collected materials (1895–1925 vs. 2015–2017). Three bumble bee species inhabit the Yuzhny (Southern) Island and the southern edge of Severny (Northern) Island of this archipelago: Bombus glacialis Friese, 1902, B. hyperboreus Schönherr, 1809, and B. pyrrhopygus Friese, 1902. Bombus glacialis shares three unique COI haplotypes that may indicate its long-term (pre-glacial) persistence on Novaya Zemlya. In contrast, Bombus hyperboreus and B. pyrrhopygus share a rather low molecular divergence from mainland populations, with the same or closely related haplotypes as those from Arctic Siberia and Norway. A brief re-description of Bombus pyrrhopygus based on the newly collected topotypes is presented. Habitats, foraging plants and life cycles of bumble bees on Novaya Zemlya are characterized, and possible causes of extremely low bumble bee abundance on the archipelago are discussed. The species-poor bumble bee fauna of Novaya Zemlya is compared with those in other areas throughout the Arctic. The mean bumble bee species richness on the Arctic Ocean islands is three times lower than that in the mainland Arctic areas (3.1 vs. 8.6 species per local fauna, respectively). General linear models (GLMs) indicate that this difference can be explained by specific environmental conditions of insular areas. Our findings highlight that the insularity is a significant factor sharply decreasing species richness in bumble bee assemblages on the Arctic Ocean archipelagoes through colder climate (lower summer temperatures), prevalence of harsh Arctic tundra landscapes with poor foraging resources, and in isolation from the mainland.
["Hymenoptera"]

The genus Macrobrachium (Crustacea, Caridea, Palaemonidae) with the description of a new species from the Zaomu Mountain Forest Park, Guangdong Province, China
Evidence-based information is the foundation for addressing urgent global challenges in conservation and sustainable management of the freshwater biodiversity. The present study expands current knowledge of the genus Macrobrachium in Zaomu Mountain Forest Park, Guangdong Province based on the morphology, colouration, distribution, and molecular characteristics of Macrobrachium maculatum, M. inflatum, M. nipponense, and an undescribed new species, M. laevis. Macrobrachium laevis sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of characters, which includes the shape of rostrum, smooth carapace, and male second pereiopod. Macrobrachium laevis sp. nov. displays striking colour pattern, which could help to distinguish this species from other congeneric species in living specimen. Furthermore, the molecular characteristics of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) showed that this species has a sufficient interspecific divergence from its congeners.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

South American Nothochrysinae (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae): II. Redescription of Leptochrysa prisca Adams & Penny
Leptochrysa Adams & Penny is one of four genera of Nothochrysinae recorded from the New World. Previously, this genus and its only described species, Leptochrysa prisca Adams & Penny, were known from a single female specimen that is discolored and damaged by fungal infestation. Thus, accurate information on the taxon was limited mostly to the wings and some other external features. Here, I describe a recently collected, second female specimen with the goal of providing images of the adult coloration and elucidating characters (especially the female genitalia) that were unavailable earlier. Some variation between the two known specimens is also noted and used in interpreting venation characters. Finally, comparisons are made with other extant genera pertaining to the placement of the species within Chrysopidae.
["Female abdomen and genitalia"]

A peculiar new species of gall-inducing, clearwing moth (Lepidoptera, Sesiidae) associated with Cayaponia in the Atlantic Forest
Larvae of most clearwing moths (Lepidoptera, Sesiidae) are endophagous borers of many angiosperms, including their fruits, stems, and roots. Their localized feeding may lead to swellings on those plant parts, but whether the structures produced should be considered true galls is still controversial. In this study we describe a peculiar sesiid moth, Neosphecia cecidogena sp. nov. whose larvae induce unusual, external galls on Cayponia pilosa (Vell.) Cogn. (Cucurbitaceae) in the Atlantic Forest of southernmost Brazil. The adults, egg, larva, pupa and the gall are described and illustrated based on light and scanning electron microscopy. Galls are cylindrical and unilocular; they are induced individually on axillary buds of the C. pilosa stem. Unlike larvae of other sesiids, those of N. cecidogena sp. nov. lack abdominal pseudopodia, and show reduced stemata and chaetotaxy. Pupation occurs inside the gall, after having overwintered in the last larval instar. A maximum likelihood tree constructed based on mitochondrial DNA (COI) sequences showed that N. cecidogena sp. nov. is monophyletic and has an average distance of 13% to species of Melittia. The genera Neosphecia Le Cerf, 1916 stat. rev., Premelittia Le Cerf, 1916 stat rev., and Melittina Le Cerf, 1917 stat. rev. are restored from synonyms of Melittia Hübner, 1819 [“1816”].
["Cucurbitaceae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant and animal studies"]

A molecular study of Neophyllaphis varicolor (Hemiptera, Aphididae) in Costa Rica
The genus Neophyllaphis (Takahashi) (Aphididae: Neophyllaphidinae) is composed of 18 species; however, in the Americas only nine species have been reported previously. A new species, Neophyllaphis varicolor Miller & Halbert, was described in 2014 in USA. Colonies resembling those of this new species have been observed in Costa Rica on Podocarpus spp. In order to determine if N. varicolor is also present in Costa Rica, we sampled Neophyllaphis colonies from Podocarpus falcatus and P. chinensis. Additionally, we sampled individuals from Podocarpus sp. in Spain and Vietnam. DNA of each sample was extracted and used to amplify and sequence the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and elongation factor I (EF-1α) partial regions. According to morphological characteristics, sequences comparisons done in GenBank and BOLD, and phylogenetic analyses, the colonies collected from Podocarpus spp. in Costa Rica and the colony from Vietnam corresponded to the species N. varicolor. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of the presence of N. varicolor in Central America and Vietnam.
["Aphids"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Description of Barathricola thermophilus, a new species from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent field in the Indian Ocean with redescription of the Barathricola type species (Crustacea, Copepoda, Cyclopoida)
Re-study of the type species of the genus Barathricola Humes, 1999 (Copepoda, Cyclopoida, Schminkepinellidae) described from the Pacific Ocean (Juan de Fuca Ridge), and study of the species Barathricola thermophilus sp. nov. from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent field on the Central Ridge in the Indian Ocean revealed a derived feature and widespread geographic distribution of this deep-sea genus of cyclopoids. The derived feature of Barathricola is the sexually dimorphic third endopodal segment of leg 3 possessing a small outer terminal spine together with spine-like outgrowths on this segment. The new species differs from Barathricola rimensis Humes, 1999 in not expressing sexual dimorphism in leg 5, having three spines and one seta on its exopod in both sexes (B. rimensis has three spines and one seta on the female exopod but three spines and two setae on the male exopod) and in having broader caudal rami which are 8.9 times longer than wide in the female (this ratio for B. rimensis is 11). An amended diagnosis of the genus Barathricola, a key and a table of morphological differences for all species of Schminkepinellidae are given.
["Central Indian Ridge"]

New insights in Trichochloritis Pilsbry, 1891 and its relatives (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Camaenidae)
The genus Bellatrachia Schileyko, 2018 was described based on a specimen identified as Helix (Chloritis) pseudomiara Bavay & Dautzenberg, 1909. We concluded that the examined specimen is not that species, but Helix condoriana Crosse & Fischer, 1863. Therefore, (1) the type species of Bellatrachia must be replaced with Helix condoriana; (2) the species Helix (Chloritis) pseudomiara must be re-allocated to the genus Trichochloritis; (3) the erroneous treatment of the genus Trichochloritis by Schileyko (2007) needs to be corrected through the description of a new genus, Dentichloritis gen. nov. based on Helix brevidens Sowerby I, 1841. In addition, Chloritis microtricha Möllendorff, 1898 is treated as a synonym of Helix condoriana, and further information on the genitalia of Chloritis (?) bifoveata (Benson, 1856) is presented.
["Land snail"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mercury impact and mitigation studies"]

A new leaf-mining moth from New Zealand, Sabulopteryx botanica sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Gracillariinae), feeding on the rare endemic shrub Teucrium parvifolium (Lamiaceae), with a revised checklist of New Zealand Gracillariidae
Sabulopteryx botanica Hoare & Patrick, sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Gracillariinae) is described as a new species from New Zealand. It is regarded as endemic, and represents the first record of its genus from the southern hemisphere. Though diverging in some morphological features from previously described species, it is placed in genus Sabulopteryx Triberti, based on wing venation, abdominal characters, male and female genitalia and hostplant choice; this placement is supported by phylogenetic analysis based on the COI mitochondrial gene. The life history is described: the larva is an underside leaf-miner on the endemic divaricating shrub Teucrium parvifolium (Lamiaceae), and exits the mine to pupate in a cocoon in a folded leaf of the host plant. The remarkable history of the discovery and rediscovery of this moth is discussed: for many years it was only known from a single sap-feeding larva found in a leaf-mine in a pressed herbarium specimen of the host. The adult was discovered by BHP in Christchurch Botanic Gardens in 2013. Most distribution records of the moth come from a recent search for mines and cocoons on herbarium specimens of T. parvifolium. Sabulopteryx botanica has high conservation status, and is regarded as ‘Nationally Vulnerable’ according to the New Zealand Department of Conservation threat classification system, based on the rarity and declining status of its host plant. However, the presence of apparently thriving populations of S. botanica on cultivated plants of T. parvifolium, especially at the type locality, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, suggests that encouraging cultivation of the plant could greatly improve the conservation status of the moth. A revised checklist of New Zealand Gracillariidae is presented, assigning all species to the currently recognised subfamilies. The Australian Macarostola ida (Meyrick, 1880) is newly recorded from New Zealand (Auckland), where it is established on Eucalyptus.

New record of a parasitising species of Hydrachna (Acari, Hydrachnidia) on water beetles Eretes griseus (Fabricius, 1781) (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Dytiscinae, Eretini)
The larvae of water mites of the genus Hydrachna parasitise water bugs and water beetles. Larvae of the genus Hydrachna attach to the thorax and abdomen sternites and tergites under the elytra. Up to now six species of Hydrachna were recorded from Iran, but there are no records on larvae parasitising on water beetles. There is some information about parasitising of Hydrachna on water beetles from the genus Eretes, which is very well adapted to dry climate. The aim of this paper is to describe the morphology of an unknown larva of the genus Hydrachna, found on Eretes griseus.
["Iran"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Three new species of Herpetogramma Lederer (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) from China
Five species of the genus Herpetogramma in China are studied with morphological and DNA barcode data. Herpetogramma biconvexa Wan, Lu & Du, sp. nov., H. longispina Wan, Lu & Du, sp. nov., and H. brachyacantha Wan, Lu & Du, sp. nov. are described as new. Herpetogramma rudis (Warren) and H. magna (Butler) are newly diagnosed. Photographs of the habitus and genitalia of these five species are provided.

Meplitumen aluna gen. nov., sp. nov. an interesting eutardigrade (Hypsibiidae, Itaquasconinae) from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia
A new genus of Itaquasconinae, Meplitumen gen. nov., and a new species, Meplitumen aluna sp. nov., are described. The new genus has characters present in other genera of Itaquasconinae but in a unique combination. The spiral thickening of the bucco-pharyngeal tube is also present anteriorly to the insertion point of the stylet supports, excluding only the short portion where the apophyses for the insertion of the stylet muscles (AISM) are present. This character is similar to Astatumen Pilato, 1997 but Meplitumen gen. nov. differs from this genus as stylet furcae are shaped differently and as stylet supports and placoids are present. The presence of a spiral thickening in a portion of the buccal tube anterior to the stylet supports distinguishes the new genus from Mesocrista Pilato, 1987, Platicrista Pilato, 1987 and Itaquascon de Barros, 1939. Meplitumen gen. nov. also differs from Mesocrista, in having the caudal processes of the AISM pointing laterally (instead of postero-laterally), and the apices of the caudal processes of the stylet furcae unswollen. From Itaquascon the new genus also differs by having more robust stylet supports, pharyngeal bulb with placoids, stylet furcae differently shaped. Meplitumen gen. nov. also differs from Platicrista in having caudal processes of the AISM more robust and not flexible, and more slender stylet supports. The new species, Meplitumen aluna sp. nov., has a cuticle with a very faint roughness at the caudal extremity of the body, and eyes probably absent. The pharyngeal bulb is long, with two long, narrow, rod-shaped macroplacoids; a microplacoid and septulum are absent. The claws are well developed with main branches provided with accessory points, and at the base of the claws, a structure interpretable as a very thin lunule is present. Other cuticular thickenings on the legs are absent.
["Magdalena"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

A new species of Hyalella (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Hyalellidae) from the Puna biogeographic province in Argentina
A new species of freshwater amphipod belonging to genus Hyalella is described from a peatbog at high altitudes (3,650 to 4,400 m above sea level) in the Puna region (Salta province, northwestern Argentina). The new species can be distinguished from other hyalellid species by the following combination of characters: dorso-posterior flanges on pleonites I–III; palp on maxilla 1 reaching almost half of distance between base of palp and base of setae on outer plate, and two papposerrate setae on the inner margin of inner plate of maxilla 2; propodus of gnathopod 1 hammer-shaped, inner face with seven serrate setae; propodus of gnathopod 2 ovate; male uropod 1 without curved seta on inner side of inner ramus; ramus of uropod 3 shorter than peduncle; six pair of sternal gills on pereionites II–VII. A detailed morphological description and illustrations of the new species are provided. In Argentina, the new species represents the third record for the genus at altitudes greater than 2,000 m a.s.l., after H. kochi and H. fossamancinii (Dos Santos et al. 2008, González 2003), and the first record above 4,000 m a.s.l. Some comments about distributional and ecological aspects of the new species are included. With this new species, the number of Hyalella species known from Argentina and Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) rises to 12.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Genetic delimitation of Pristimantis orestes (Lynch, 1979) and P. saturninoi Brito et al., 2017 and description of two new terrestrial frogs from the Pristimantis orestes species group (Anura, Strabomantidae)
In the genus Pristimantis, species are often combined into taxonomic units called species groups. The taxonomy of these groups is frequently inaccurate due to the absence of genetic data from type series and repeated misidentifications generated by high morphological resemblance between taxa. Here, we focus on the P. orestes species group, providing the first genetic assessment of P. orestes sensu stricto from individuals collected from the type locality, with a reviewed diagnosis and description of advertisement calls. We find that two lineages previously named P. orestes are genetically distinct and should be separated into two different species. Based on genetic and morphological data, we name one of these species P. cajanuma sp. nov. This new species is morphologically distinct from other members of the group by having shagreen dorsal skin, evident dorsolateral folds, broader discs on toes and fingers and pale gray ventral coloration. Additionally, P. saturninoi is placed within the P. orestes species group based on genetic data from its type series. However, we find that one of its paratypes is genetically distinct and belongs to a clade containing a new species we name P. quintanai sp. nov. This new species is morphologically distinguished by lacking a tympanic membrane and vocal sacs in males, and by having expanded discs on toes and fingers, finely tuberculated dorsal skin and irregular white or cream spots in the groin and concealed surfaces of thighs. Our findings highlight the importance of providing genetic characterization and placement from the type series in taxonomic challenging groups, such as Pristimantis. We also suggest that the diversity of species within the P. orestes group will increase as more sampling is achieved in the southern Andes of Ecuador.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Discovery and description of a mysterious Asian flying squirrel (Rodentia, Sciuridae, Biswamoyopterus) from Mount Gaoligong, southwest China
The flying squirrels of the tribe Pteromyini (Family Sciuridae) currently include 15 genera of which the genus Biswamoyopterus comprises two recognized species, B. biswasi Saha, 1981 and B. laoensis Sanamxay et al., 2013. These two species were each described from only one specimen that are separated from each other by 1,250 kilometres in southern Asia, where they occur in northeast India and central Lao PDR respectively. In 2017 and 2018, two specimens of Biswamoyopterus were discovered from Mount Gaoligong, west Yunnan province, southwest China (between the type locality of the two recognized species). This study aimed to evaluate the taxonomic status of these two newly acquired specimens of Biswamoyopterus by comparing their morphology with the two described species of the genus. The results of this study showed that the specimens from Yunnan province (China) differed from both B. laoensis and B. biswasi in both pelage colour and craniology, and should be recognised as a distinct species, B. gaoligongensis sp. nov., which is formally described here. This study contributes to the understanding of the flying squirrels of southern Asia and identifies an additional species that appears to be endemic to southwest China; however, more research is required to provide details of its ecology, distribution, and conservation status.
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Sinopyrophorinae, a new subfamily of Elateridae (Coleoptera, Elateroidea) with the first record of a luminous click beetle in Asia and evidence for multiple origins of bioluminescence in Elateridae
The new subfamily Sinopyrophorinae within Elateridae is proposed to accommodate a bioluminescent species, Sinopyrophorus schimmeli Bi & Li, gen. et sp. nov., recently discovered in Yunnan, China. This lineage is morphologically distinguished from other click-beetle subfamilies by the strongly protruding frontoclypeal region, which is longitudinally carinate medially, the pretarsal claws without basal setae, the hind wing venation with a well-defined wedge cell, the abdomen with seven (male) or six (female) ventrites, the large luminous organ on the abdominal sternite II, and the male genitalia with median lobe much shorter than parameres, and parameres arcuate, with the inner margin near its apical third dentate. Molecular phylogeny based on the combined 14 mitochondrial and two nuclear genes supports the placement of this taxon far from other luminescent click-beetle groups, which provides additional evidence for the multiple origin of bioluminescence in Elateridae. Illustrations of habitus and main diagnostic features of S. schimmeli Bi & Li, gen. et sp. nov. are provided, as well as the brief description of its luminescent behavior.
["bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new genus and two new species of miniature clingfishes from temperate southern Australia (Teleostei, Gobiesocidae)
A new genus and two new species of miniature clingfishes are described based on specimens collected from dense stands of macroalgae in intertidal and shallow subtidal areas along the coast of southern Australia. The new genus, Barryichthys, is distinguished from other genera of the Gobiesocidae by unique features of the adhesive disc, including elongate papillae in adhesive disc regions A and B, the reduction and/or loss of several elements of the cephalic lateral line canals, the lower gill arch skeleton, and the neurocranium, and by having two distinct types of pectoral-fin rays. Barryichthys hutchinsi is described based on 19 specimens (12.4–18.7 mm SL) from Western Australia and South Australia. Barryichthys algicola is described based on 22 specimens (9.0–21.0 mm SL) from Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania. The new species are distinguished from each other by characters of body and head shape, vertebral counts, and aspects of live colour pattern. The new genus shares several characters in common with Parvicrepis, another genus of miniature gobiesocids from southern Australia that also inhabits macroalgae habitats. The many reductions and novel characters of Barryichthys are discussed within the context of miniaturisation.
["Macroalgae"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine animal studies overview", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Insights into the morphology and molecular characterisation of glacial relict Eurytemora lacustris (Poppe, 1887) (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Temoridae)
Eurytemora lacustris (Poppe, 1887) is a stenothermic glacial relict whose narrow environmental requirements make it an indicator species for good ecological conditions. The primary threats to this species are eutrophication and global warming. Many authors have described E. lacustris in taxonomic keys; however, its morphological description is unsatisfactory. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to review morphological characteristics of E. lacustris that were previously undescribed in the literature and to provide the molecular characteristics based on the two conservative mitochondrial genes: cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) and cytochrome b (cytb). The new record of E. lacustris indicates that it is a more widespread species than previously hypothesized. Width-to-length ratio of the last female endopod segment of legs indicates variation among the widely distributed species of the genus in Europe (i.e., E. lacustris, E. velox (Lilljeborg, 1853), and E. affinis (Poppe, 1880)). We also found variability of number of setae on the second segment of male endopod. Furthermore, our analysis confirms the occurrence of species in different than exclusively freshwater habitats.
["Brackish water"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Description of a new species of Paraplehnia (Polycladida, Stylochoidea) from Japan, with inference on the phylogenetic position of Plehniidae
We describe a new species of polyclad flatworm, Paraplehnia seisuiae sp. nov., from 298–310 m depths in the Sea of Kumano, West Pacific, Japan. Paraplehnia seisuiae sp. nov. is characterized by i) a developed muscular wall proximally occupying about one-third of the prostatic vesicle, ii) no common duct between the spermiducal bulbs and the prostatic vesicle, and iii) a genital pit between the male and female gonopores. We provide a partial sequence (712 bp) of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene as a DNA barcode for the species. Our phylogenetic analyses based on 603-bp 28S rDNA sequences indicate that P. seisuiae sp. nov. is nested in a clade consisting of stylochoid species along with unidentified species of Stylochus. It suggests that Plehniidae belongs to Stylochoidea, although this should be confirmed by future studies that contain Plehnia arctica (Plehn, 1896), the type species of the type genus of the family. The interfamily relationship among the superfamily Stylochoidea remains poorly resolved.
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Liopropoma incandescens sp. nov. (﻿Epinephelidae, Liopropominae), a new species of basslet from mesophotic coral ecosystems of Pohnpei, Micronesia
A new species of the genus Liopropoma Gill found on the lower mesophotic coral ecosystem of Pohnpei, Micronesia, is herein described. Liopropoma incandescens sp. nov. differs from its congeners in coloration, number of lateral-line scales, number of pectoral fin rays, body depth, and snout length. Liopropoma incandescens sp. nov. is the 31st species in the genus. It was collected from a small rocky crevice in a steep slope at 130 m depth. Water temperature was 20 °C and benthic habitat was dominated by gorgonians, sponges and tunicates.
["closed-circuit rebreather"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Cirrhilabrus wakanda, a new species of fairy wrasse from mesophotic ecosystems of Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa (Teleostei, Labridae)
Cirrhilabrus wakanda sp. nov. is described on the basis of the holotype and four paratypes collected between 50 and 80m depth over low-complexity reef and rubble bottoms at the east coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa. The new species belongs to a group of fairy wrasses from the western Indian Ocean, sharing a combination of characters that include: short pelvic fins (not or barely reaching anal-fin origin); relatively unmarked dorsal and anal fins; males with a strongly lanceolate caudal fin (except in C. rubrisquamis); both sexes with a pair of prominent facial stripes above and below the orbit; and both sexes with prominent purple scales and osseus elements that persist, and stain purple, respectively, even in preservation. This group of fairy wrasse is part of a larger complex that includes related species from the western Pacific Ocean. In addition to meristic and morphometric comparisons, we also compare mitochondrial DNA sequence data to the aforementioned, putatively related species.
["Coral reefs"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Rainforest and cloud forest Scolytodes (Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Hexacolini) from the Arthropods of La Selva inventory in Costa Rica: new species, new synonymy, new records
Quantitative collecting efforts over the last several decades in Costa Rica have resulted in many new species of insects. The Arthropods of La Selva projects included collecting from a typical lowland Neotropical forest and up an altitudinal transect, and has provided many valuable samples of insects, spiders and mites potentially new to science. We describe 18 new species in the bark beetle genus Scolytodes Ferrari, 1867, 14 of which were collected during this project: S. angulus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. sufflatus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. squamatifrons Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. comosus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. spatulatus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. seriatus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. profundus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. catinus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. fimbriatus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. sulcifrons Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. planifrons Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. porosus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. mundus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. callosus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. parvipilus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. plenus Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., S. niger Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov., and S. simplex Jordal & Kirkendall, sp. nov. One species, Scolytodes minutissimus Schedl, 1952, is redescribed to match the holotype. We give new Costa Rica records for S. costabilis Wood, 1974, which is the correct name for S. obesus Wood, 1975 (syn. nov.). We report Costa Rica as a new country record for six species: Scolytodes clusiacolens Wood, 1967, S. crinalis Wood, 1978, S. culcitatus (Blandford, 1897), S. libidus Wood, 1978, S. reticulatus (Wood, 1961), and S. spadix (Blackman, 1943). From a closely related genus, we provide the first record for Central America (and only the second collection) of Pycnarthrum fulgidum Wood, 1977.
["bark beetles"]

A key to the flat grass scale genus Nipponaclerda (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Aclerdidae)
The flat grass scale genus Nipponaclerda comprises four species, native to Central and East Asia. Nipponaclerda biwakoensis has been introduced to the United States and is considered a serious pest of Phragmites australis, the common reed. Heavy infestations of N. biwakoensis in coastal marshes of Louisiana have coincided with extensive die-off of reeds. In this article, dichotomous identification keys to the genera of Aclerdidae and to the species of Nipponaclerda are provided, allowing for accurate identification of species found in the native and invasive range.
["Identification"]
["Research on scale insects", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

High species diversity of the soft coral family Xeniidae (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea) in the temperate region of Japan revealed by morphological and molecular analyses
The soft coral family Xeniidae, commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, consists of 20 genera and 162 species. To date, few studies on this family have been conducted in Japan, especially at higher latitudes. Although molecular phylogenetic analyses have recently been used to distinguish soft coral species, it is difficult to identify species and genera in this family due to the limited taxonomic indices and high morphological variation. In this study, we found a large Xeniidae community off the coast of Oshima Island (31°31.35'N, 131°24.27'E) at Miyazaki, Kyushu Island, located in the temperate region of Japan. The species composition and molecular phylogenetic relationships were investigated to uncover the species diversity of Xeniidae in this community. A total of 182 xeniid specimens were collected and identified to the species level, after which the samples were molecularly analyzed using a mitochondrial marker (ND2) and a nuclear marker (ITS) to infer the phylogenetic relationships. A total of 14 xeniid species were identified, including five undescribed species from five genera (Anthelia, Heteroxenia, Sympodium, Xenia, and Yamazatum). Miyazaki was identified as having the highest xeniid species diversity in Japan. The molecular phylogenetic trees inferred from each marker recovered very similar topologies: four genera (Anthelia, Heteroxenia, Sympodium, and Yamazatum) were monophyletic, whereas one (Xenia) was polyphyletic. Thus, except for Xenia, the morphological characteristics used for traditional taxonomy well reflected the phylogeny of the Xeniidae at the genus level. On the other hand, our results show that further taxonomic revisions of Xenia are needed.
["high latitude"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Ten newly recorded species of xyleborine ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini) from Thailand
Ten species of ambrosia beetles of the tribe Xyleborini, Amasa beesoni (Eggers, 1930), Amasa opalescens (Schedl, 1937), Amasa cylindrotomica (Schedl, 1939), Arixyleborus hirsutulus Schedl, 1969, Beaverium latus (Eggers, 1923), Cnestus protensus (Eggers, 1930), Coptodryas quadricostata (Schedl, 1942), Cryptoxyleborus confusus Browne, 1950, Cryptoxyleborus percuneolus (Schedl, 1951) and Cyclorhipidion vigilans (Schedl, 1939), are recorded here for the first time in Thailand. Diagnostic characters, illustrations, distribution and biological data are provided for each species. Xylosandrus ramulorum (Schedl, 1957), stat. res. is removed from synonymy with Amasa cylindrotomica and reinstated as a valid species.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

On the genera Qiongocera and Relictocera (Araneae, Psilodercidae) from Southeast Asia
Four new species are described in two psilodercid genera, Qiongocera Li & Li, 2017 and Relictocera Li & Li, 2017: Qiongocera luoxuan Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from China, Relictocera wugen Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) and R. sigen Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂) from Vietnam, and R. qianzi Li & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀) from Thailand. These genera were previously thought to be monotypic. In addition, one species of the genus Merizocera Fage, 1912 is transferred to Relictocera: Relictocera mus (Deeleman-Reinhold, 1995), comb. nov. (♂♀). The types of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing.

Aphaenogaster illyrica, a new species from the mountains of the Balkan Peninsula (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Aphaenogaster illyrica sp. nov., a member of the A. subterranea species group, is described from Dinaric Alps of Slovenia and Croatia, from Golešnica Mt. in north Macedonia, Osogovo-Belasica Massif of southwestern Bulgaria, and from Kerkini Mts. of Greek Macedonia. It is characterised by large body size, moderately sculptured head, elevated mesonotum, and long propodeal spines. Its habitat preferences are discussed. A key to the Aphaenogaster graeca complex is provided.
["Aphaenogaster subterranea species group"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A revised annotated checklist of louse flies (Diptera, Hippoboscidae) from Slovakia
The list of all known locality and host records from the literature on louse flies from Slovakia are summarized, with the addition of new collection data. New locality data are provided for five species. Three species are added to the Slovakian list: Icosta minor (Bigot in Thomson, 1858), which was erroneously cited for Moravia instead of Slovakia in the previous checklist, and Ornithophila metallica (Schiner, 1864) and Ornithomya chloropus (Bergroth, 1901), which were overlooked from the last checklist. As a result, the louse fly fauna of Slovakia increases to 19 species: 12 autochtonous species and seven rare, non-native species only occasionally imported to Slovakia or migrating to the country with their hosts. This is by far the largest regional fauna of Hippoboscidae in Central Europe, and matches the richest southern European faunas. In total, 78 host-parasite associations concerning 46 bird-host species from eight orders and nine species of mammals, including humans, have been found from a literature review in Slovakia. Two host-parasite associations are reported from Slovakia for the first time: Ornithomya avicularia (Linnaeus, 1758) on Prunella modularis (Linnaeus, 1758) (Aves: Prunellidae) and Lipoptena fortisetosa Maa, 1965 on Homo sapiens Linnaeus, 1758 (Mammalia: Hominidae).
["Faunistics"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Bartonella species infections research"]

Size variation and geographical distribution of the luminous earthworm Pontodrilus litoralis (Grube, 1855) (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) in Southeast Asia and Japan
The luminous earthworm Pontodrilus litoralis (Grube, 1855) occurs in a very wide range of subtropical and tropical coastal areas. Morphometrics on size variation (number of segments, body length and diameter) and genetic analysis using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene sequence were conducted on 14 populations of P. litoralis from Southeast Asia and Japan. Statistical inference on morphometric data revealed significantly different size variations in the body length and diameter among these 14 populations of P. litoralis. However, discordance between the morphometric and mitochondrial COI gene-based phylogenetic analyses was evident, where the size variations in P. litoralis showed a different pattern from the COI genetic differences. The update on the current distribution of P. litoralis is reported and revealed different aspects of the littoral habitat characteristics between Southeast Asia and Japan.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Study of Mite Species"]

Zhezhoulinyphia gen. nov. (Araneae, Linyphiidae) from Yunnan, China
A new Linyphiinae genus Zhezhoulinyphia gen. nov. from Yunnan Province is described together with its two new species: Z. caperata sp. nov. (♂) and Z. denticulata sp. nov. (♂, ♀). Centromerus yadongensis Hu & Li, 1987 is transferred to Zhezhoulinyphia gen. nov. and a new combination, Z. yadongensis (Hu & Li, 1987), comb. nov. is proposed.
["Gaoligong Mountain"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Brentisentis yangtzensis Yu & Wu, 1989 (Acanthocephala, Illiosentidae)
The mitogenome of Brentisentis yangtzensis is 13,864 bp in length and has the circular structure typical of metazoans. It contains 36 genes: 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs) and 12 protein-encoding genes (PCGs). All genes are transcribed from the same strand. Thirteen overlapping regions were found in the mitochondrial genome. The overall A+T content of B. yangtzensis is 68.3% versus 31.7% of G+C content (A = 27.8%, T = 40.5%, C = 9.0%, G = 22.7%). B. yangtzenensis (Illiosentidae) and Leptorhynchoides thecatus (Rhadinorhynchidae) form a sister clade, showing the relatively close relationship between the Illiosentidae and the Rhadinorhynchidae. The mitochondrial gene arrangements of acanthocephalan species are relatively conserved, with only a few translocations of tRNAs (trnS1, trnS2, trnV, and trnK) detected. An identical gene order was found both in a sister clade (Centrorhynchus aluconis and Plagiorhynchus transversus) and across different classes (B. yangtzensis (Palaeacanthocephala), Acanthosentis cheni (Eoacanthocephala) and Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus (Archiacanthocephala), Oncicola luehei and L. thecatus (Palaeacanthocephala)). More studies and more sequences of acanthocephalan species are needed to gain a clear understanding of the phylogenetic relationships.
["Echinorhynchida"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Taxonomic study of the genus Malaxa Melichar, with descriptions of two new species from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Delphacidae)
Two new species of the delphacid genus Malaxa Melichar, 1914, M. hamuliferum sp. nov. and M. tricuspis sp. nov., are described and illustrated from southwest China (Yunnan and Hainan), providing the genus with eleven species in total. A key is provided to distinguish the seven Chinese species in the genus.
["Bamboo planthopper"]

Revision of the Neotropical Neuratelia Rondani (Diptera, Mycetophilidae, Sciophilinae): two new species, a new combination, and a new synonym
We describe two new Neotropical species of Neuratelia Rondani from the high Central Andes of Colombia, N. altoandina sp. nov. and N. colombiana sp. nov. The holotype of Eudicrana elegans Lane actually is a species of Neuratelia and a new combination is proposed. Our examination of the holotype of Neuratelia sapaici Lane from southeastern Brazil shows this species to be a synonym of N. elegans (Lane), which is formally proposed here. Neuratelia sapaici is redescribed. The position of these three species within the genus is discussed. A key for the Neotropical species of Neuratelia is provided.
["Andean ecosystem"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Two new species of the tribe Hemisphaeriini (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae) from southwestern China
Two new species of the tribe Hemisphaeriini: Ceratogergithus brachyspinus Yang & Chen, sp. nov. (Yunnan) and Neohemisphaerius clavatus Yang & Chen, sp. nov. (Guizhou) are described and illustrated. A checklist to Hemisphaeriini genera is provided. The generic characteristics of the genera Ceratogergithus Gnezdilov, 2017 and Neohemisphaerius Chen, Zhang & Chang, 2014 are redefined. Checklists and keys to the species of each genus are given.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Two new camaenid land snails (Eupulmonata) from Central China
Two new camaenid land snails are reported from Central China. The new genus, represented by Sinochloritis lii Wu & Chen, gen. & sp. nov., the type of the genus from Sichuan, is close to Yakuchloritis Habe, Nipponochloritis Habe, Neochloritis Minato and Trichochloritis Pilsbry, but is well characterized by the smooth adult shell, highly developed epiphallic papilla, absence of penial caecum, and the presence of an epiphallus-binding muscle that binds the proximal epiphallus to the distal penis. A new species Bradybaena linjun Wu & Chen, sp. nov. is described from Hubei Province and is characterized by having two shell bands, a spoon-shaped love dart and the proportionally shortest mucous glands among Chinese congeners.
["Bradybaeninae"]

Sarothrogammarus yiiruae, a new species of Amphipoda (Gammaridae) from China
A relic amphipod of the Tethys, Sarothrogammarus yiiruae sp. nov., is described from Xinjiang, China. The new species is characterized by the absence of eyes; having the palm of the propodus without a mid-palmar spine on gnathopods I–II; a weakly concave coxal plate IV; narrow bases of pereopods V–VII; a peduncle of uropod I without a basofacial spine; uropod III longer than uropods I–II, a scale-like inner ramus, and a biarticulate outer ramus with distinct second article. Detailed morphological comparisons with related species are discussed. Genetic distances of the new and related species are provided as proof of species identification.
["genetic distance"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A review of gorgonian coral species (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Alcyonacea) held in the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History research collection: focus on species from Scleraxonia, Holaxonia, Calcaxonia – Part III: Suborder Holaxonia continued, and suborder Calcaxonia
Alcyonacean (Gorgonian) coral species from Holaxonia (not previously reviewed in this three-part work), family Plexauridae, as well as species in Calcaxonia were reviewed. Specimens examined were collected from the California Bight and adjacent areas, many now held in the research collection of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH). The collection has incorporated numerous specimens collected by the Allan Hancock Foundation (AHF) ‘Velero’ Expeditions of 1931–1941 and 1948–1985. This historic collection displays an emphasis on species belonging to the Holaxonia, particularly gorgoniids and plexaurids. This third part of the larger work presented a thorough, in-depth discussion of at least one genus (Swiftia Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1864) in the Plexauridae found within the California Bight that has generated some taxonomic confusion; in that discussion are comments on other genera (such as Psammogorgia Verrill, 1868a, to which several species had been previously ascribed). The discussion of Swiftia includes description of a morphological trend (encompassing colony form, color and sclerite form), likely influenced by geography and ecology, not noted or discussed previously. Additionally, a preliminary discussion of the genus (Thesea Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1860) was presented; this genus, both historically and currently, has not been fully examined in California waters. Finally, a short review was given for the few species of Calcaxonia represented in the SBMNH research collection. This paper, Part III of the full review, continued and concludes the systematic examination of species represented in the SBMNH research collection begun in Part I, continued in Part II, focusing on all species of gorgonian coral held in the SBMNH research collection, known to currently inhabit the California Bight and adjacent areas.
["Allan Hancock Foundation (AHF) \u2013 \u2019Velero\u2019 Expeditions"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A review of gorgonian coral species (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Alcyonacea) held in the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History research collection: focus on species from Scleraxonia, Holaxonia, and Calcaxonia – Part I: Introduction, species of Scleraxonia and Holaxonia (Family Acanthogorgiidae)
Gorgonian specimens collected from the California Bight (northeastern Pacific Ocean) and adjacent areas held in the collection of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH) were reviewed and evaluated for species identification; much of this material is of historic significance as a large percentage of the specimens were collected by the Allan Hancock Foundation (AHF) ‘Velero’ Expeditions of 1931–1941 and 1948–1985. Examination and reorganization of this collection began early in 2002; initially, it was estimated that at most, twelve to fifteen species of gorgonian could be found within the Bight. Following collection evaluation, it was determined that at a minimum, approximately twenty three genera, encompassing some forty-plus species, of gorgonian coral have been found living within the California Bight region, often extending some distance into adjacent geographical areas both north and south. All species from the California Bight in the collection are discussed to some degree (in three separate parts, this being Part I), with digital images of both colony form and sclerite composition provided for most. Collection specimens from the suborders and families covered in Part I are not extensive, but several genera are featured that have not been previously reported for the California Bight region. Additionally, a potential new species (genus Sibogagorgia Stiasny, 1937) from the Paragorgiidae is described in Part I. Overall, the collection displays an emphasis on species belonging to the Holaxonia, particularly the plexaurids. A brief discussion of a California Bight grouping, referred to as the “red whips,” is presented in Part II; this grouping encompasses several species with very similar colony appearance across a number of genera. A new species (a whip or thread-like form) in the genus Eugorgia Verrill, 1868, belonging to the Gorgoniidae, is described in Part II. The genus Swiftia Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1864 is one of the most challenging taxon groups represented; those species in the genus Swiftia collected within the California Bight are discussed fully, based on SBMNH (and other) specimens in Part III. Scanning electron microscopy images for species of Swiftia from the California coast have rarely, if ever, been published and are included, with a discussion of the geographic range of the genus in the eastern Pacific, from the southern boundary of the California Bight to the Bering Sea, Alaska. Finally, specimens of the genus Thesea Duchassaing & Michelotti, 1860, displaying a whip or thread-like body form, are discussed at a preliminary level in Part III; they also presented challenges to a clear understanding of their taxonomy. While Part I focuses on species of Scleraxonia and those of the Holaxonia in the Acanthogorgiidae family held in the SBMNH collection, all three parts taken together represent the first comprehensive work that reviews the research collection of SBMNH, which focuses on species of gorgonian coral known to inhabit the California Bight.
["Allan Hancock Foundation (AHF) \u2013 \u2018Velero\u2019 Expeditions"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A review of gorgonian coral species (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Alcyonacea) held in the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History research collection: focus on species from Scleraxonia, Holaxonia, Calcaxonia – Part II: Species of Holaxonia, families Gorgoniidae and Plexauridae
Gorgonian coral specimens from the Holaxonia, families Gorgoniidae and Plexauridae held in the collection of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (SBMNH) were reviewed and evaluated for species identification. The specimens were collected from within, and adjacent areas of, the California Bight. The SBMNH collection has encompassed within it a large percentage of specimens collected by the Allan Hancock Foundation (AHF) ‘Velero’ Expeditions of 1931–1941 and 1948–1985. This historic collection displays an emphasis on species belonging to the Holaxonia, particularly the gorgoniids and plexaurids; thus, this second part presents a thorough discussion of well-known genera from within the California Bight, with more extensive discussions of several genera that have historically, and currently, led to confusion (and thus, misidentification). A brief discussion of a California Bight grouping, referred to within as the “red whips,” is presented; this grouping encompasses several species with very similar colony appearance across a number of genera. Two species, the gorgoniid Leptogorgia chilensis (Verrill, 1868) and the plexaurid Chromoplexaura marki (Kükenthal, 1913) each required the designation of a neotype from within the collection. A new species in the genus Eugorgia Verrill, 1868, a whip or thread-like form belonging to the family Gorgoniidae, is described. One additional plexaurid genus (Placogorgia) is discussed, a genus not commonly reported for the California Bight region. This is the first comprehensive work, in three parts, focusing on all species of gorgonian coral known to inhabit the California Bight. This paper, Part II of the full work, continues the systematic review of all species represented in the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History research collection begun in Part I.
["Allan Hancock Foundation (AHF) \u2013 \u2018Velero\u2019 Expeditions"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A new species of Linan Hlaváč (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from Shenzhen, China
A new Chinese species of the genus Linan Hlaváč, 2003, L. qiniangmontis sp. nov., is described based on two male and three female specimens from sifted leaf litter samples at Qiniang Mountain, Shenzhen City, Guangdong. The species can be readily recognized and separated from all congeners based on the forms of the male antennae, the metaventral processes, and the aedeagus.
["Ant-loving beetles"]

Two new species of the genus Microplitis Förster, 1862 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from China
Two new species of Microplitis Förster, 1862, M. bomiensis Zhang, sp. nov., and M. paizhensis Zhang, sp. nov. from Tibet, China are described and illustrated. A key to the species of the genus Microplitis Förster from China is added.
["Braconidae"]

Amphibian diversity in Serranía de Majé, an isolated mountain range in eastern Panamá
Eastern Panamá is within the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot and supports an understudied amphibian fauna. Here we characterize the amphibian diversity across an elevational gradient in one of the least studied mountain ranges in eastern Panamá, Serranía de Majé. A total of 38 species were found, which represent 17% of all species reported for Panamá. Based on expected richness function and individual-based rarefaction curves, it is estimated that this is an underestimate and that at least 44 amphibian species occur in this area. Members of all three amphibian orders were encountered, represented by ten families and 22 genera, including five species endemic to Central America. Estimated species richness decreased with elevation, and the mid-elevation site supported both lowland and highland species. Our study provides a baseline for understanding the distribution pattern of amphibians in Panamá, for conservation efforts, and for determining disease-induced changes in amphibian communities.
["Altitudinal diversity"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

Guess who? On the importance of using appropriate name: case study of Marphysa sanguinea (Montagu, 1813)
The common bait worm Marphysa sanguinea (Montagu, 1813), originally described from the south coast of England, is the type species of the genus. This species has been widely reported from all around the world and has been considered as cosmopolitan until recently. This is partly because the original description was very brief and poorly illustrated, and also because all species superficially look similar. In order to clarify the situation, M. sanguinea was redescribed and a neotype was designated by Hutchings and Karageorgpoulos in 2003. Recently, specimens from Cornwall, close to the type locality, were sampled, examined morphologically, and used to obtain COI gene sequences for this species. Molecular results permitted us to confirm the identity and presence of M. sanguinea along the French coasts and to highlight the presence of inaccurate sequences of this species on GenBank. Use of this “false” cosmopolitan species at a worldwide scale by many biologists is also discussed in this paper.
["Bait worms"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new species of the genus Centruroides Marx (Scorpiones, Buthidae) from western Michoacán State, México using molecular and morphological evidence
A new species of scorpion belonging to the genus Centruroides Marx, 1890 is described from the Coalcomán mountain range, western Michoacán State, Mexico. Its general aspect resembles Centruroides ruana Quijano-Ravell & Ponce-Saavedra, 2016, and C. infamatus (C. L. Koch, 1844), but it is a smaller species having lower pectinal tooth counts; also, males of C. ruana have the pedipalp chelae slightly thicker, whereas C. infamatus has a subaculear tubercle nearer to the base of the aculeus. Another species with similar aspect is Centruroides ornatus Pocock, 1902; however, a preliminary molecular analysis of the mitochondrial gene mRNA 16S showed genetic divergence (measured as p-distance) near to 10% between these species, and lower differences between the new species with respect to C. infamatus (4.63%) and C. ruana (5.07%). The molecular evidence together with the morphological characters (integrative taxonomy) are sufficient for recognizing the Coalcomán population as a separate and valid species.
["bark scorpions"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Call a spade a spade: taxonomy and distribution of Pelobates, with description of a new Balkan endemic
The genomic era contributes to update the taxonomy of many debated terrestrial vertebrates. In an accompanying work, we provided a comprehensive molecular assessment of spadefoot toads (Pelobates) using genomic data. Our results call for taxonomic updates in this group. First, nuclear phylogenomics confirmed the species-level divergence between the Iberian P. cultripes and its Moroccan relative P. varaldii. Second, we inferred that P. fuscus and P. vespertinus, considered subspecies until recently, feature partial reproductive isolation and thus deserve a specific level. Third, we evidenced cryptic speciation and diversification among deeply diverged lineages collectively known as Pelobates syriacus. Populations from the Near East correspond to the Eastern spadefoot toad P. syriacus sensu stricto, which is represented by two subspecies, one in the Levant (P. s. syriacus) and the other in the rest of the range (P. s. boettgeri). Populations from southeastern Europe correspond to the Balkan spadefoot toad, P. balcanicus. Based on genetic evidence, this species is also polytypic: the nominal P. b. balcanicus inhabits the Balkan Peninsula; a new subspecies P. b. chloeae ssp. nov. appears endemic to the Peloponnese. In this paper, we provide an updated overview of the taxonomy and distribution of all extant Pelobates taxa and describe P. b. chloeae ssp. nov.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

A new species of Aciconula (Amphipoda, Senticauda, Caprellidae) from Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, Malaysia
A new species of caprellid, Aciconula tinggiensis (Amphipoda, Senticaudata, Caprellidae) was discovered from Pulau Tinggi, Sultan Iskandar Marine Park (SIMP), South China Sea, Malaysia. The new Malaysian species can be distinguished from the other Aciconula species by the combination of the following characters: 1. the presence of a very small suture between head and pereonite 1; 2. antenna 1 flagellum with 4 articles; 3. inner lobe of lower lip unilobed; 4. gnathopod 2 palm of propodus with a large proximal projection (stretching from the proximal margin of the palm to nearly mid-way of palm); 5. pereopods 3–4 with 2 articles (article 1 subrectangular, article 2 conical or tapering at the tip with 1 plumose seta and 2 normal setae) and; 6. pereopod 5 covered with relatively dense and long setae. An updated identification key for the five known species in the genus, including information on the respective geographical distribution and habitat, is presented.
["Aciconula tinggiensis sp. nov."]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Description of a new species of Music frogs (Anura, Ranidae, Nidirana) from Mt Dayao, southern China
A new species of Music frogs, Nidirana yaoica sp. nov. is described based on a series of adult male specimens collected from Mt Dayao, Guangxi, southern China, providing valuable new information on the phylogeny, bioacoustics, and biogeography of related species within the genus Nidirana. The new species forms the sister taxon to N. daunchina from western China and together the sister taxon to N. chapaensis from northern Vietnam. Nidirana yaoica sp. nov. can be distinguished from all known congeners by a significant genetic divergence in the mitochondrial 16S and CO1 genes, the advertisement call containing 1–3 rapidly repeated regular notes, and the combination of morphological characteristics including a medium-sized body with SVL 40.4–45.9 mm in adult males; lateroventral grooves on every digit, not meeting at the tip of disk; tibio-tarsal articulation reaching the nostril; the presence of a pair of subgular vocal sacs in males; and one single developed nuptial pad on dorsal surface of first finger in males.
["bioacoustic"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A new stonefly species (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from the Interior Highlands USA, with morphological and molecular comparison to other congeneric species
Thirty-one species of Nearctic Perlesta Banks, 1906 (Plecoptera: Perlidae) are recognized. A new species is described from western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma, USA, Perlesta sublobata South & DeWalt, sp. nov., from the adult male, adult female, and egg. Perlesta sublobata males are differentiated from other congeners by a combination of a prominent ventral caecum and a distinct dorsal extension of the lateral sclerites of the aedeagus. A preliminary molecular phylogenetic hypothesis is proposed for Perlesta based on 17 congeners and three outgroup taxa using partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequence data. Illustrations, stereomicroscope images, and scanning electron micrographs support the description and comparison to other Perlesta.
["Arkansas"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology"]

Two new European long-legged hoverfly species of the Eumerus binominatus species subgroup (Diptera, Syrphidae)
Eumerus Meigen (Diptera, Syrphidae) is one of the most speciose hoverfly genera in Europe, with several species groups recognized within. As part of the tricolor group of species, a subgroup of long-legged representatives stands out. We name it Eumerus binominatus subgroup and provide descriptions for two new European species which belong to this subgroup: E. grallator sp. nov. from mainland Spain and E. tenuitarsis sp. nov. from Lesvos and Evros, Greece. A key for all five recognized species of the binominatus subgroup is provided.
["Binominatus subgroup"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Diaspididae, Megacanthaspis guiyangensis (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha) from China
A new species of armoured scale insect, Megacanthaspis guiyangensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to M. hangzhouensis. Megacanthaspis guiyangenis infests leaves of Oligostachyum lubricum in China. A key to all eight species of Megacanthaspis now known is provided.
["Armoured scale"]

Geosesarma mirum, a new species of semi-terrestrial sesarmid crab (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura) from central Taiwan
A new species of semi-terrestrial sesarmid crab of the genus Geosesarma De Man, 1892, is described from central Taiwan. Geosesarma mirum sp. nov. is distinct in possessing a strong transverse crest on the inner surface of the male chela and a diagnostic male first gonopod which is relatively long and stout, with the distal chitinous part broad and spatuliform. Like most Geosesarma species, G. mirum sp. nov. has large eggs and direct development, contrasting with the only other species known from Taiwan, G. hednon Ng, Liu and Schubart, 2004, which has small eggs and planktotrophic larvae.
["Direct development"]

Morphological and molecular analyses reveal two new insular species of Cnemaspis Strauch, 1887 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Satun Province, southern Thailand
We describe two new insular gecko species of the genus Cnemaspis from Tarutao, Adang, and Rawi islands in Satun Province, southern Thailand. The new species are distinguished from their congeners in having a unique combination of morphological, scalation, and color pattern characters, and by genetic divergence in the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene. Cnemaspis tarutaoensis sp. nov. was found to be a member of the C. kumpoli group, but is distinguished from all other species in that group by having 8–9 supralabials and 8 infralabials; 4–5 pore-bearing precloacal scales, pores rounded; 17–19 paravertebral tubercles randomly arranged; 27–29 subdigital lamellae under the fourth toe; subcaudal region yellowish, with smooth scales and a single enlarged median row; black gular markings in males and females; and 17.24–22.36% uncorrected pairwise sequence divergences. Cnemaspis adangrawi sp. nov. was found to be a member of the C. siamensis group, but is distinguished from all other species in that group by having 10 supralabials and 9 infralabials; 6–8 pore-bearing precloacal scales, pores rounded and arranged in a chevron shape; 23–25 randomly arranged, separated paravertebral tubercle rows; 26–28 subdigital lamellae under the fourth toe; subcaudal scales keeled, without enlarged median row; gular region, abdomen, limbs and subcaudal region yellowish in males only; gular marking absent in males and females; and 8.30–26.38 % uncorrected pairwise sequence divergences. Cnemaspis tarutaoensis sp. nov. occurs in karst formations on Tarutao Island, while Cnemaspis adangrawi sp. nov. is found near granitic, rocky streams on Adang and Rawi islands.
["Island"]

A review of the genus Lankaphthona Medvedev, 2001, with comments on the modified phallobase and the unique abdominal appendage of L. binotata (Baly) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
The flea beetle genus Lankaphthona Medvedev, 2001 is redescribed and a new species L. yunnantarsella sp. nov. Ruan, Konstantinov & Prathapan is described. Longitarsella Medvedev, 2009, syn. nov. and Philotarsa Medvedev, 2009, syn. nov. are newly synonymized with Lankaphthona. Philotarsa laosica Medvedev, 2009, syn. nov. is synonymized with Lankaphthona phuketensis (Gruev, 1989). The following new combinations are proposed: Lankaphthona binotata (Baly, 1876), comb. nov.; Lankaphthona costata (Medvedev, 2016), comb. nov.; Lankaphthona cyanipennis (Medvedev, 2017), comb. nov.; Lankaphthona nigronotata (Jacoby, 1896), comb. nov.; Lankaphthona notatipennis (Medvedev, 2009), comb. nov.; and Lankaphthona phuketensis (Gruev, 1989), comb. nov., status restored. A highly specialized spoon-shaped ‘appendage’ is discovered on the first abdominal ventrite of males of Lankaphthona binotata. Aedeagus of the same species has aberrant sheath-shaped phallobase encircling the median lobe. Morphology and possible function of these structures are discussed. Menispermaceae are newly reported as the host plants of the genus.
["abdominal process"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

The genus Scutellathous Kishii, 1955 (Coleoptera, Elateridae, Dendrometrinae) in China, with description of three new species
Five species of Scutellathous Kishii, 1955 are recognized from China, of which three are new. Scutellathous habenularis sp. nov., S. nanlingensis sp. nov., and S. quadrata sp. nov. are described and illustrated. A key to species from China, a checklist, and a distribution map are provided. The relationships and comparisons among genera Athous Eschscholtz, 1829, Ohirathous Han & Park, 2012, Parathous Fleutiaux, 1918, and Scutellathous Kishii, 1955 are discussed.
["Athous"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Amphibians of Santa Teresa, Brazil: the hotspot further evaluated
A checklist of the amphibians of Santa Teresa municipality, in southeastern Brazil is presented based on fieldwork, examination of specimens in collections, and a literature review. This new amphibian list of Santa Teresa includes 108 species, of which 106 (~98%) belong to Anura and two (~2%) to Gymnophiona. Hylidae was the most represented family with 47 species (43%). Compared to the previous amphibian lists for Santa Teresa, 14 species were added, 17 previously reported species were removed, and 13 species were re-identified based on recent taxonomic rearrangements. Of the 14 species added, 11 (79%) were first recorded during our fieldwork and specimen examination. It is also the first list of caecilians for Santa Teresa. This list suggests that Santa Teresa has 0.16 species per km2 (i.e., 108 species/683 km2), one of the highest densities of amphibian species in the world at a regional scale. This richness represents 78% of the 136 anurans from Espírito Santo state and 10% of the 1,080 amphibians from Brazil. We highlight the need for long-term monitoring to understand population trends and develop effective conservation plans to safeguard this remarkable amphibian richness.
["Anura"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

A review of some new or little-known species of the genus Gnorimoschema (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae) from the Palaearctic region
Six new species of Gnorimoschema Busck, 1900 are described: G. pamira sp. nov. (Tadzhikistan), G. brachyptera sp. nov. (Russia: Buryatia), G. altaica sp. nov. (Russia: Altai), G. tabazhok sp. nov. (Russia, Altai, Tuva), G. yakovlevi sp. nov. (Russia: Altai, Buryatia), G. kozlovi sp. nov. (Mongolia). A new synonym is established: G. mikkolai Povolný, 1994 syn. nov. of G. radkevichi Piskunov, 1980. Gnorimoschema montanum Povolný, 1966, sp. rev., stat. nov. is taken out from synonymy with G. soffneri (Riedl, 1965). An annotated check-list of the genus Gnorimoschema in the Palaearctic region is provided.

Redescription of the Dikraneurini leafhopper Dikrella mella Ruppel & DeLong, 1952 (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae) with a synoptic checklist of leafhoppers on avocado trees in Mexico
Among leafhoppers (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae), only Typhlocybinae are known in Mexico to inhabit avocado, an important horticultural crop. In this paper, a potential avocado pest, Dikrella mella Ruppel & DeLong, 1952, is redescribed and illustrated. Additionally, a detailed checklist and a key for all known species of Typhlocybinae associated with avocado trees in Mexico are provided.
["Alconeura"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

To be or not to be a synonym – revision of the Donacia clavareaui-fukiensis complex (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Donaciinae)
The East Palaearctic species Donacia clavareaui Jacobson, 1906 and Donacia fukiensis Goecke, 1944 have been confused for decades. Finally, D. fukiensis was synonymized with D. clavareaui by Askevold (1990) but he could not examine the type series of D. fukiensis because it was stored in an inaccessible collection. Cong and Yu (1997) re-established D. fukiensis as a distinct species, also without direct access to the type series. The synonymization by Askevold (1990) was applied in the identification key of Palaearctic Chrysomelidae (Warchalowski 2010) and the Catalogue of Palaearctic Chrysomelidae (Silfverberg 2010). Because the type series of D. fukiensis is now accessible, it has been possible to proof that D. fukiensis is a distinct species, and a lectotype has been established from the series of seven syntypes. Donacia kweilina Chen, 1966 and D. mediohirsuta Chen, 1966, which were split from the mixture of D. clavareaui and D. fukiensis, are now also synonymized with D. clavareaui, because their characters are the same or within the variation range of the characters of D. clavareaui. Furthermore, a distribution map is provided with the reliable records known to date.

Host plant associations in Western Palaearctic Longitarsus flea beetles (Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini): a preliminary phylogenetic assessment
Longitarsus Latreille (Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini) is a very large genus of phytophagous insects, with more than 700 species distributed in all zoogeographical regions. Patterns of host use have been a central topic in phytophagous insect research. In this study a first assessment is provided to test the hypothesis that host-plant association is phylogenetically conserved in Western Palaearctic Longitarsus species. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods were used to infer a phylogeny based on DNA sequence data from two mitochondrial genes from 52 Longitarsus species from the Western Palaearctic. In agreement with the host phylogenetic conservatism hypothesis, a strict association between most of the recovered clades and specific plant families was found, except for species associated with Boraginaceae. Low phylogenetic resolution at deep nodes limited the evaluation of whether closely related Longitarsus clades are associated with the same plant family or to closely related plant families.
["Longitarsus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Phylogeography and species distribution modelling of Cryptocephalus barii (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae): is this alpine endemic species close to extinction?
The alternation of glacial and interglacial cycles of the Quaternary period contributed in shaping the current species distribution. Cold-adapted organisms experienced range expansion and contraction in response to the temperature decrease and increase, respectively. In this study, a fragment of the mitochondrial marker COI was used to investigate the phylogeography of Cryptocephalus barii, a cold-adapted alpine leaf beetle species endemic of Orobie Alps, northern Italy. The relationships among populations, their divergence time, and the most probable migration model were estimated and are discussed in light of the Pleistocene climate oscillations. Through a species distribution modelling analysis, the current habitat suitability was assessed and the distribution in a future global warming scenario predicted. The main divergence events that led to the actual population structure took place from ~750,000 to ~150,000 years ago, almost following the pattern of the climate oscillations that led to the increase of the connections between the populations during cold periods and the isolation on massifs in warm periods. The most supported migration model suggests that the species survived to past adverse climatic conditions within refugia inside and at the limit of the actual range. The species distribution modelling analysis showed that C. barii is extremely sensitive to air temperature variations, thus the increase of temperature caused by global warming will reduce the suitable areas within the species range, leading to its possible extinction in the next 50 years. Cryptocephalus barii is a representative case of how cold adapted and limited distributed species have been and could be affected by climate change, that highlights the implementation of conservation actions.
["cold-adapted species"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

On the genus Flexicrurum Tong & Li, 2007 (Araneae, Psilodercidae) from Hainan Island, China
Three new species of the genus Flexicrurum Tong & Li, 2007, from Hainan Island, China are described: F. wuzhishanense sp. nov. (♂♀), F. yangjiao sp. nov. (♂♀), and F. qishi sp. nov. (♂♀). A key to males of species of Flexicrurum is provided. Additionally, the female of F. minutum Tong & Li, 2007, is described for the first time. To date, the genus is endemic to Hainan Island, China. Types are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS) in Beijing.
["Endemic"]

Isotomidae of Japan and Asiatic part of Russia. II. The genus Tetracanthella of the Far East
The paper considers new and little-known species of the genus Tetracanthella distributed in the Far East of Russia and in Japan. Sensillar chaetotaxy and labial palp, two less known morphological characters for the genus, are discussed. Two new species T. annulata sp. nov. and T. tardoki sp. nov. are described; T. manschurica Kutyreva, 1980 and T czernovae Kutyreva, 1980 are redescribed. For the latter species a lectotype and paralectotypes are designated. Remarks are provided for T. sylvatica Yosii, 1939. A second undescribed species is recorded for Japan. New records for T. orientalis Martynova, 1977 and T. sibirica Deharveng, 1987 are listed.

Three additional new genera of acidocerine water scavenger beetles from the Guiana and Brazilian Shield regions of South America (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Acidocerinae)
Recent study of the water scavenger beetle subfamily Acidocerinae in the Neotropical region has uncovered numerous undescribed species that are not able to be placed in existing genera. Here, we describe three new genera to accommodate 17 of these new species from South America: Aulonochares gen. nov. for Aulonochares lingulatus sp. nov. (French Guiana, Suriname), Aulonochares novoairensis sp. nov. (Brazil), and Aulonochares tubulus sp. nov. (Brazil, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela); Ephydrolithus gen. nov. for Ephydrolithus hamadae sp. nov. (Brazil), Ephydrolithus minor sp. nov. (Brazil), Ephydrolithus ogmos sp. nov. (Brazil), Ephydrolithus spiculatus sp. nov. (Brazil), and Ephydrolithus teli sp. nov. (Brazil); and Primocerus gen. nov. for Primocerus cuspidis sp. nov. (Venezuela), Primocerus gigas sp. nov. (Venezuela), Primocerus neutrum sp. nov. (Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela), Primocerus ocellatus sp. nov. (Venezuela), Primocerus petilus sp. nov. (Brazil), Primocerus pijiguaense sp. nov. (Venezuela), Primocerus maipure sp. nov. (Venezuela), Primocerus semipubescens sp. nov. (Guyana), and Primocerus striatolatus sp. nov. (Suriname). The genus Ephydrolithus gen. nov. is currently known to be restricted to seepages in the mountainous regions of the Brazilian Shield. Aulonochares gen. nov. and Primocerus gen. nov. are both currently only known from the Guiana Shield, though widespread in that region where they are associated with streams and seeps. We present differential diagnoses, maps, habitat details, and illustrations of all new genera and species here described.
["aquatic beetles"]

On three species of the spider genus Pimoa (Araneae, Pimoidae) from China
Two new species of the spider genus Pimoa Chamberlin & Ivie, 1943 are described from Hunan and Yunnan Provinces, China: P. binchuanensis sp. nov. (♂♀) and P. xinjianensis sp. nov. (♂♀). In addition, the male of P. lata Xu & Li, 2009 is described for the first time. The DNA barcodes of the two new species are documented.

Two new species of the bamboo-feeding planthopper genus Purohita Distant from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae)
Two new species of the bamboo-feeding genus Purohita Distant, 1906, P. castaneus sp. nov. and P. circumcincta sp. nov., are described and illustrated from southwest China (Yunnan), giving the genus thirteen species in total. A key is provided to distinguish eight Chinese species in the genus.
["Bamboo planthopper"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Molecular data reveal a new species of Rhopalias Stiles & Hassall, 1898 (Digenea, Echinostomatidae) in the Common opossum, Didelphis marsupialis L. (Mammalia, Didelphidae) in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
A new species of Rhopalias Stiles & Hassall, 1898 is described from the small intestine of the Common opossum, Didelphis marsupialis Linnaeus from the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. Rhopalias oochi sp. nov. is morphologically very similar to the type species of the genus, Rhopalias coronatus (Rudolphi, 1819) Stiles & Hassall 1898, a species widely distributed in opossums across Mexico. A molecular phylogenetic analysis using a mitochondrial gene (cox1), and the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2), of specimens of R. coronatus collected in several localities of Mexico revealed that those from the Yucatán Peninsula, originally recorded on morphological grounds as R. coronatus actually represented an independent genetic lineage. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analyses were performed for each data set independently, and for the concatenated data set (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 + cox1). All phylogenetic analyses showed that the specimens from Yucatán represented a monophyletic lineage, with high bootstrap support and Bayesian posterior probabilities. In addition, the genetic divergence estimated between R. oochi sp. nov. and two species of Rhopalias, R. coronatus, and R. macracanthus Chandler, 1932 that also occur in Mexican marsupials ranged between 7–8% and 16–17%, for cox1, and between 0.1–0.2% and 7% for the ITS region, respectively. The molecular evidence gathered in this study (reciprocal monophyly in both phylogenetic analyses, and estimated genetic divergence) suggested that the specimens found in the intestine of D. marsupialis originally reported as R. coronatus from Yucatán, actually represent a new species. Morphological evidence was found through light and scanning electron microscopy to support the species distinction based on molecular data.
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Paleopathology and ancient diseases"]

A revision of the Phelister haemorrhous species group (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Exosternini)
The Phelister haemorrhous species group is established here, revising the seventeen included species, four of which are described as new. This group is named for and contains the type species of Phelister, so represents a core around which a modern concept of the dumping-ground genus Phelister may be developed. The group includes several common and well-known species in the Americas, including some of the only Phelister to exhibit distinctive coloration. Several of these are typically found in cattle dung, and have likely expanded beyond their native ranges as cattle spread throughout the Americas. The group contains the following species: Phelister haemorrhous Marseul, 1854, Phelister affinis J.E. LeConte, 1859, Phelister parallelisternus Schmidt, 1893, Phelister mobilensis Casey, 1916, Phelister brevistriatus Casey, 1916, Phelister sonorae sp. nov., Phelister warneri sp. nov., Phelister puncticollis Hinton, 1935, Phelister subrotundus (Say, 1825), Phelister rouzeti (Fairmaire, 1850), Phelister rufinotus Marseul, 1861, Phelister thiemei Schmidt, 1889, Phelister parecis sp. nov., Phelister bryanti sp. nov., Phelister vernus (Say, 1825), Phelister chilicola Marseul, 1870, and Phelister bruchi Bickhardt, 1920. We also designate the following new synonymies: Phelister haemorrhous Marseul (= Phelister rubicundus Marseul, 1889, syn. nov.); Phelister subrotundus (= Phelister contractus Casey, 1916, syn nov.); Phelister rouzeti (Fairmaire) (= Phelister fairmairei Marseul, 1861; syn. nov., = Phelister wickhami Casey, 1916, syn. nov.); Phelister rufinotus Marseul, 1861 (= Epierus marseulii Kirsch, 1873, syn. nov.); and Phelister thiemei Schmidt, 1889 (= Phelister stercoricola Bickhardt, 1909, syn. nov.).
["Histerinae"]

Taxonomic revision of Mordellistena hirtipes species complex with new distribution records (Insecta, Coleoptera, Mordellidae)
A taxonomic revision of species related to Mordellistena hirtipes Schilsky, 1895 is presented. Five species among the M. hirtipes complex are recognised: M. hirtipes Schilsky, 1895, M. pseudohirtipes Ermisch, 1965, M. purpurascens Costa, 1854, M. balearica Compte, 1985, and M. irritans Franciscolo, 1991. Descriptions, differential diagnoses, an identification key, and new distributional records are provided. Principal Component Analysis is performed for visualisation of differentiation between taxa. The following taxonomic acts are proposed: Mordellistena podlussanyi Czető, 1990 and M. aegea Franciscolo, 1949 are proposed as junior subjective synonyms of M. hirtipes Schilsky, 1895; M. fageli Ermisch, 1969 and M. pseudohirtipes krotosensis Czető, 1990 are proposed as junior subjective synonyms of M. pseudohirtipes pseudohirtipes Ermisch, 1965; M. geronensis Ermisch, 1977 and M. istrica Ermisch, 1977 are proposed as junior subjective synonyms of M. purpurascens Costa, 1854.
["taxonomy"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Distribution of the genus Boeckella (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Centropagidae) at high latitudes in South America and the main Antarctic biogeographic regions
Copepods are present in numerous aquatic environments, playing key roles in food webs, and are thought to be useful indicators of environmental change. Boeckella is a calanoid copepod genus distributed mainly in the Southern Hemisphere, with 14 species reported at higher southern latitudes in South America and Antarctica. We present an updated database of these 14 species of Boeckella generated from a combination of three sources: 1) new field sampling data, 2) published records, and 3) Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), to provide a comprehensive description of the geographic distribution of the genus south of latitude 40°S in southern South America and the three main terrestrial biogeographic regions of Antarctica. The database includes 380 records, 62 from field sampling, 278 from the literature and 40 from GBIF. Southern South America, including the Falkland/Malvinas Islands, had the highest species richness and number of records (14 and 297, respectively), followed by the sub-Antarctic islands (5 and 34), South Orkney Islands (2 and 14), South Shetland Islands (1 and 23), Antarctic Peninsula (1 and 10) and finally continental Antarctica (1 and 2). Boeckella poppei Mrázek, 1901 is the only representative of the genus, and more widely the only terrestrial/freshwater invertebrate, currently reported from all three main biogeographic regions in Antarctica (sub-Antarctic islands, maritime and continental Antarctic). Future development of molecular systematic studies in this group should contribute to assessing the correspondence between morphological taxonomy and molecular evolutionary radiation.
["Antarctica"]
["Polar Research and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

Taxonomic review of the mantidfly genus Nolima Navás (Neuroptera, Mantispidae, Calomantispinae)
The mantidfly genus Nolima Navás, 1914 (Neuroptera, Mantispidae, Calomantispinae) is herein revised. Nolima is endemic to the New World, ranging from the southwestern United States south to Costa Rica. Nolima infensa Navás, N. pinal Rehn, and N. victor Navás are redescribed, while the new species Nolima costaricensis Reynoso & Contreras, sp. nov. is described from Costa Rica. The species N. dine Rehn and N. kantsi Rehn are synonymized with N. pinal. Additionally, the species N. praeliator Navás and N. pugnax Navás are synonymized with N. victor, for which a lectotype is designated. New distribution records are provided from Guatemala and Honduras for Nolima infensa, the state of Nevada in western United States for N. pinal, and the state of Puebla in central Mexico for N. victor. An illustrated key and a distribution map are presented.
["Lacewings"]

New species of the Rhaconotus jacobsoni group (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Doryctinae) from Vietnam
Four new species of the genus Rhaconotus Ruthe from Vietnam are described and illustrated – Rhaconotus directus Long, sp. nov., R. laevigatus Long, sp. nov., R. robustus Long, sp. nov., and R. simulatus Long, sp. nov. A key to species of Rhaconotus jacobsoni group from the Oriental region is provided.
["Ichneumonoidea"]

Review of the mite genus Ololaelaps (Acari, Laelapidae) and redescription of O. formidabilis Berlese
A species of laelapid mite, Ololaelaps formidabilis, is redescribed based on male and female adults from soil in Sumatra, Indonesia. This species is distinguished from other Ololaelaps species by its metapodal platelet narrowly fused with the parapodal plate and by its hologastric shield having two inverted-V-like ridges. The genus is redescribed based on a review of the literature and examination of specimens of some species. Valid species of Ololaelaps are listed and accompanied by notes on morphological characters to assist future revision of the genus.
["Gamasida"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

On the genus Pseudocneorhinus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae), with descriptions of five new species from China
Species of the genus Pseudocneorhinus occurring in or near China are reviewed, with description of five new species, Pseudocneorhinus angustus sp. nov., P. glaber sp. nov., P. hlavaci sp. nov., P. obliquehumeralis sp. nov., and P. setosicallus sp. nov. from the provinces of Beijing, Gansu, Shaanxi, Sichuan, and Zhejiang. They are illustrated and compared with similar species, and a key is provided to all presently known species of the genus. Lectotypes of the following species are designated: Callirhopalus subcallosus Voss, 1956 [current name Pseudocneorhinus subcallosus (Voss, 1956)] and P. squamosus Marshall, 1934. Pseudocneorhinus squameus Morimoto, 2015 is confirmed for the fauna of China.
["New taxa"]

The geographical distribution patterns of Chrysoteuchia Hübner in China and description of a new species (Lepidoptera, Crambidae)
The geographical distribution patterns of Chrysoteuchia Hübner in China are analysed with MaxEnt and ArcGIS based on known localities and nineteen environmental variables. The results suggest that southeastern China is a highly suitable area, and Bio11 (mean temperature of the coldest quarter), Bio12 (annual precipitation) and Bio18 (precipitation of the warmest quarter) are revealed to be the main variables affecting the present distribution patterns. Among them, Bio18 is the strongest predictor with a 24.3% contribution. Furthermore, a new species from Tibet is added to the genus, Chrysoteuchia landryi sp. nov., and the male of C. curvicavus is described for the first time. Images of adults and their genitalia are illustrated, and two maps showing the geographical distribution patterns of Chrysoteuchia in China are provided.
["ArcGIS"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

Description on two species of genus Platythomisus (Araneae, Thomisidae) from China and Singapore
Two species of the genus Platythomisus Doleschall, 1859 are studied: P. xiandao Lin & Li, sp. nov. is described based on male and female specimens from Yunnan, China, and P. octomaculatus (C. L. Koch, 1845), the type species of the genus, is redescribed based on female specimens from Singapore. Its male, also from Singapore, is described for the first time.
["African region"]

A new giant Pristimantis (Anura, Craugastoridae) from the paramos of the Podocarpus National Park, southern Ecuador
A new species of frog of the genus Pristimantis is described from the paramos of the Nudo de Cajanuma, Podocarpus National Park, on the border between the provinces of Loja and Zamora-Chinchipe, Ecuador. The new species is readily distinguished from all other species of Pristimantis by its large body size (snout-vent length: 50.0–50.5 mm in adult females, 34.7–42.5 mm in adult males), thick glandular skin, large warts on flanks, prominent glandular patches on head and legs, and dark brown dorsum. This new species is among the largest and stoutest Pristimantis frogs of the high Andes. It is only known from its type locality, where it occurs in paramo bambusoid meadows at elevations between 3300 and 3400 m. It is morphologically similar to Pristimantis erythros, P. farisorum, P. obmutescens, P. orcesi, P. racemus, P. simoterus, P. simoteriscus, and P. thymelensis. Notorious morphological characters present in this new species are thick glandular patches covering dorsum and limbs and porous skin texture, which are shared with P. erythros.

Two new species of Acanthobothrium Blanchard, 1848 (Onchobothriidae) in Narcine entemedor Jordan & Starks, 1895 (Narcinidae) from Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico
Two species of Acanthobothrium (Onchoproteocephalidea: Onchobothriidae) are described from the spiral intestine of Narcine entemedor Jordan & Starks, 1895, in Bahía de Acapulco, Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico. Based on the four criteria used for the identification of species of Acanthobothrium, A. soniae sp. nov. is a Category 2 species (less than 15 mm in total length with less than 50 proglottids, less than 80 testes, and with the ovary asymmetrical in shape). Acanthobothrium vidali sp. nov. is a Category 6 species (more than 15 mm in total length with more than 50 proglottids, fewer than 80 testes, and the ovary is asymmetrical). The new species differ from similar species from the Pacific Ocean by total length, the number of proglottids, diameter of the accessory sucker, the length of the cirrus sac, the number of testes per proglottid and the measurements of hooks. With the recognition of A. soniae sp. nov. and A. vidali sp. nov., 42 species of Acanthobothrium have been reported from the Pacific coast of the Americas. This is the first report of species of Acanthobothrium from a member of Narcine from Mexico and it brings the number of species reported from elasmobranchs from the Pacific Coast of Mexico to 13.
["Acanthobothrium"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Indonaia rectangularis (Tapparone-Canefri, 1889), comb. nov., a forgotten freshwater mussel species from Myanmar (Bivalvia, Unionidae)
Unio rectangularis Tapparone-Canefri, 1889 is a little-known nominal species of freshwater mussels described from a tributary of the Ayeyarwady River in Myanmar. This taxon was considered a synonym of Gibbosula laosensis (Lea, 1863), a margaritiferid species. However, the range of Gibbosula laosensis does not encompass the Ayeyarwady River watershed. Here we re-examine the holotype of Unio rectangularis and provide a conchological re-description of this species. Based on conchological features such as the shell shape, elevated umbo, and the structure of lateral and pseudocardinal teeth, we transfer this taxon to the genus Indonaia Prashad, 1918 and propose I. rectangularis (Tapparone-Canefri, 1889), comb. nov. It appears to be a rare freshwater mussel species with a restricted range, because it has not been found since the original description. Two additional species in this genus are known from Myanmar, i.e. Indonaia andersoniana (Nevill, 1877) and I. subclathrata (Martens, 1899).
["Ayeyarwady River"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Orthopaedic implants and arthroplasty"]

A new species of the genus Cristimenes Ďuriš & Horká, 2017 (Decapoda, Caridea, Palaemonidae)
A new species of crinoid-associated shrimp, Cristimenes brucei sp. nov., is described based on specimens from Korea, although the species also occurs in Hong Kong and is likely more widespread. The new species is morphologically very similar to C. commensalis, but can be distinguished by the reduced supraorbital tooth on the carapace. Cristimenes brucei sp. nov. is clearly recovered as a monophyletic species through COI barcode and molecular phylogenetic analyses based on four genetic markers (COI, 16S, H3, 18S).
["Cristimenes brucei sp. nov."]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Morphological and molecular study on Yininemertes pratensis (Nemertea, Pilidiophora, Heteronemertea) from the Han River Estuary, South Korea, and its phylogenetic position within the family Lineidae
Outbreaks of ribbon worms observed in 2013, 2015, and 2017–2019 in the Han River Estuary, South Korea, have caused damage to local glass-eel fisheries. The Han River ribbon worms have been identified as Yininemertes pratensis (Sun & Lu, 1998) based on not only morphological characteristics compared with the holotype and paratype specimens, but also DNA sequence comparison with topotypes freshly collected near the Yangtze River mouth, China. Using sequences of six gene markers (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, histone H3, histone H4, 16S rRNA, and COI), the phylogenetic position of Y. pratensis was inferred among other heteronemerteans based on their sequences obtained from public databases. This analysis firmly placed Y. pratensis as a close relative to Apatronemertes albimaculosa Wilfert & Gibson, 1974, which has been reported from aquarium tanks containing tropical freshwater plants in various parts of the world as well as a wild environment in Panama.
["Anguilla japonica"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new species of Gracixalus (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from Yunnan, China
A new species of the genus Gracixalus, Gracixalus yunnanensis sp. n., is described based on a series of specimens collected from southwestern and southern Yunnan, China. This species is distinguished from all other known congeners by a combination of the following characters: relatively small body size in adult males (SVL 26.0–34.2 mm); dorsal surface yellow brown or red brown; distinctive conical asperities on dorsum; males with an external subgular vocal sac and linea masculina; throat, chest, and belly nearly immaculate; venter surface orangish with yellow spots, semi-transparent; snout rounded; supratympanic fold distinct; iris bronze; lack of white patch on temporal region; tibiotarsal projection absent; sides of body nearly smooth with no black blotch; finger webbing rudimentary; and toe webbing formula I1.5–2II1.5–2.7III.5–3IV2.5–1.5V. Genetically, the new species diverges from its congeners by 2.2%–14.1% (uncorrected p-distance) and is closest to G. guangdongensis. However, the new species can morphologically be separated from G. guangdongensis by distinctive conical tubercles on dorsum (versus absent), lateral surface nearly smooth with no black blotches on ventrolateral region (versus lateral surface rough, scattered with tubercles and black blotches on ventrolateral region), snout rounded (versus triangularly pointed), iris bronze (versus iris brown), and ventral surface orangish (versus throat and chest creamy white and belly light brown).
["Gracixalus yunnanensis sp. n."]

Description of six new species of the subgenus Panophrys within the genus Megophrys (Anura, Megophryidae) from southeastern China based on molecular and morphological data
The diversity of the subgenus Panophrys within the genus Megophrys has been revealed to be extremely underestimated from southeastern China. Herpetological surveys coupled with extensive sampling in a longitudinal mountain belt located in southeastern China resulted in the discoveries of six new species of the subgenus Panophrys. Furthermore, the new discoveries support the findings of “micro-endemism”, “sympatric phenomenon” and “sympatric but distant phylogenetically” which appear to be common among Panophrys species, and also indicates that the Asian horned toads would be good candidates for studies on speciation and biogeography, and additionally emphasizes the conservation difficulties of these toads.

A new record of the spider family Caponiidae from China (Arachnida, Araneae)
The family Caponiidae Simon, 1890 is reported for the first time from China. The total number of the known spider families from China increases to 72 with the addition of this family newly recorded in the present paper. Based on male and female specimens collected from Guangxi, China, Laoponia saetosa Platnick & Jäger, 2008 is illustrated and a global distribution map is generated.

Annotated nomenclator of extant and fossil taxa of the Paludomidae (Caenogastropoda, Cerithioidea)
This nomenclator provides bibliographic details on all names in the family-, genus-, and species-group of the the family Paludomidae. All nomenclaturally available names are discussed including junior homonyms and objective junior synonyms as well as unavailable names such as nomina nuda, infrasubspecific names and, to some extent, also incorrect subsequent spellings. In the family-group a total of 28 names are included in the nomenclator, of which 21 are available and seven unavailable names. Of the available names in the family-group, six are invalid for nomenclatural reasons. In the genus-group a total of 57 names are included in the catalogue. Of the available names in the genus-group, 11 are invalid for nomenclatural reasons. In the species-group a total of 499 names are included, of which 463 are available, but 21 are invalid for nomenclatural reasons. All names are given in their original combination and spelling (mandatory changes are discussed and corrected spellings are provided), along with the reference to the original publication. For each family- and genus-group name, the original classification and the type genus or type species, respectively, are given. For species-group taxa the type locality and type horizon (for fossil taxa) are provided, usually as given in the original publication. A new name, Cleopatra adami nom. nov., is proposed for the fossil Cleopatra cylindrica (Adam, 1957), which is a homonym of Cleopatra cridlandi cylindrica Mandahl-Barth, 1954, and a lectotype for Cleopatra dubia Adam, 1959 is designated. A new replacement name Leloupiella nom. nov. is proposed for Stormsia Leloup, 1953 which is a homonym of Stormsia Bourguignat, 1891.
["Freshwater snails"]

Species review of the genus Boreophilia Benick from North America (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae, Athetini): Systematics, habitat, and distribution
Fourteen species of the genus Boreophilia Benick are now recognized in North America. Boreophilia insecuta (Eppelsheim), reported by Lohse (1990) from North America, is a misidentification of a new species, which is described here as B. neoinsecuta Klimaszewski, sp. n., and the true B. insecuta (Epp.) does not occur in North America. An additional new species is found in Alaska, and described as B. beringi Klimaszewski & Brunke, sp. n. The following three species are synonymized (second name being valid): Boreophilia herschelensis Klimaszewski & Godin, 2012, with Boreophilia vega (Fenyes, 1920); Boreophilia manitobensis Lohse, 1990, with B. caseyi Lohse, 1990; and B. angusticornis (Bernahuer, 1907) with B. subplana (J Sahlberg, 1880), based on study of genital structures and external morphology. Atheta gelida J Sahlberg, 1887, and Atheta munsteri Bernhauer, 1902, considered as Boreophilia in recent publications, are transferred to the genus Atheta Thomson, subgenus Dimetrota. Boreostiba piligera (J Sahlberg) is transferred to Boreophilia based on morphology and the results of our phylogenetic analysis. Boreophilia nearctica is recorded from Alberta and B. nomensis is recorded from British Columbia for the first time. Each valid species is illustrated by color image of habitus, and black and white images of genitalia and tergite and sternite VIII. A new key to all Nearctic species of the genus is provided. DNA barcode data were available for nine of the 14 species, which we downloaded, analyzed, and used as additional evidence for the taxonomic conclusions reached herein.
["Identification"]

Designation of a neotype for Enteromius pallidus (Smith, 1841), an endemic cyprinid minnow from the Cape Fold Ecoregion, South Africa
Enteromius pallidus was described by Smith in 1841 without a designated type specimen for the species. Herein, we designate a specimen from the Baakens River system as a neotype for E. pallidus and provide a thorough description for this species to facilitate ongoing taxonomic revisions of southern African Enteromius. Enteromius pallidus can be distinguished from the other minnows in the “goldie barb group” by having an incomplete lateral line, lack of distinct chevron or tubular markings around lateral line pores, absence of a distinct lateral stripe, absence of wavy parallel lines along scale rows and lack of black pigmentation around the borders of the scales. We provide mtDNA COI sequences for the neotype and an additional specimen from the Baakens River as DNA barcodes of types and topotypes are a fundamental requirement for further taxonomic studies.
["Enteromius"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Taxonomy of the thelyphonid genus Typopeltis Pocock, 1894, including homology proposals for the male gonopod structures (Arachnida, Thelyphonida, Typopeltinae)
The genus Typopeltis Pocock, 1894 is poorly known regarding its systematics, natural history, and distribution, despite important taxonomic advances during the 1990s. Currently, only 13 species are known from East Asia, including areas in south China, Japan, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Taiwan. In this work, we describe and illustrate a new species of Typopeltis from Vietnam and provide a new description for the male of T. guangxiensis Haupt & Song, 1996. Additionally, we describe and illustrate the female gonopod of T. guangxiensis for the first time and propose a new homology hypothesis for the male gonopod parts. The male of T. laurentianus sp. n. is characterized by the unique patellar apophysis that presents a smooth texture and no spines. Typopeltis laurentianus sp. n. is the third species of this genus to be described from Vietnam.
["Asian fauna"]

Morphology, molecular genetics, and acoustics reveal two new species of the genus Leptobrachella from northwestern Guizhou Province, China (Anura, Megophryidae)
Two new species of the genus Leptobrachella Smith, 1925, L. bijie J. Wang, Y.L. Li, Y. Li, H.H. Chen & Y.Y. Wang, sp. nov. and L. purpuraventra J. Wang, Y.L. Li, Y. Li, H.H. Chen & Y.Y. Wang, sp. nov., were described from northwestern Guizhou Province, China based on a combination of acoustic, molecular, and morphological data. The new discoveries bring the total number of this genus to 73, with 16 congeners recorded in China, and represent the second and third species of the genus reported from Guizhou Province.
["Acoustics"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Description of a new species of Rhinocoeta Burmeister, 1842 (Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae) from the South African Northern Cape
Rhinocoeta namaqua sp. nov. is recognised as a separate species from its closest relative, R. cornuta (Fabricius, 1781) after a review and close analysis of specimens recently collected in the semiarid region of the Northern Cape Province, South Africa. The new species can be readily separated from R. cornuta by the drastically reduced tubercle and associated depression on its anterior pronotal margin, particularly in the male. In addition, the general body shape of R. namaqua is more globose than that of R. cornuta, its average total length is larger, and its elytral costae are generally reduced and poorly visible, particularly at the level of the umbones. These characteristics make it practically impossible to separate the two sexes of R. namaqua, without inspection of the internal reproductive organs, as their external morphologies are virtually identical, unlike in R. cornuta. Finally, the aedeagal parameres of R. namaqua exhibit a narrower apex than those of R. cornuta and, in particular, lack the subapical hook-shaped lateral expansions that are so typical of all the other Rhinocoeta s. str. species. The new species appears to be restricted to specific bioregions of the Succulent and Nama Karoo biomes of the Northern Cape, and like all other species of the genus is generally found on or under mammal herbivore dung. Adult activity is limited to short periods immediately after rainfall events, during which individuals fly around and mate, but do not feed on either fruits or flowers.

Taxonomic status and behavioural documentation of the troglobiont Lithobius matulici (Myriapoda, Chilopoda) from the Dinaric Alps: Are there semiaquatic centipedes in caves?
Lithobius matulici Verhoeff, 1899 is redescribed based on type material and newly collected specimens. Strandiolus jugoslavicus Hoffer, 1937, described from another cave in the same region in Bosnia and Hercegovina, is presented as a junior subjective synonym of L. matulici (syn. nov.). L. matulici is shown to be most closely related to Lithobius remyi Jawłowski, 1933, type species of the subgenus Thracolithobius Matic, 1962. The completeness of the chitin-lines on the forcipular coxosternite is discussed as a promising character for interspecific differentiation within Lithobiomorpha. Documentation of hitherto unknown semiaquatic behaviour in L. matulici and other cave-dwelling centipede species from Herzegovinian-, Montenegrin- and Pyrenean caves is presented.
["Balkan Peninsula"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Rove beetles of the genus Quedius (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) of Russia: a key to species and annotated catalogue
This paper is the first inventory of the fauna of the rove beetle genus Quedius in the Russian Federation. It provides an annotated catalogue of 88 species of Quedius currently recorded from Russia, based on several collections and a critical evaluation of all earlier published records. All species are listed with a summary of their overall distribution and bionomics. Species distributions within Russia are given as lists of regions where they occur with references to the respective source collections or publications which any record is based on. For that, the territory of Russia is divided into 40 regions that mostly follow the administrative division of the country. The annotated catalogue is supplemented by a well-illustrated identification key to all species and a concise checklist in form of an easily visualized table. Quedius fusus Cai & Zhou, 2015, Quedius humosus Solodovnikov, 2005, and Quedius lundbergi Palm, 1973 are recorded from the territory of Russia for the first time. Based on an analysis of literature and available material, records of Quedius cincticollis Kraatz, 1857, Quedius humeralis Stephens, 1832, Quedius maurorufus (Gravenhorst 1806), Quedius nemoralis Baudi de Selve, 1848, Quedius nigrocaeruleus Fauvel, 1876, and Quedius picipes (Mannerheim, 1830) from Russia are considered doubtful. The distribution of Quedius brachypterus Coiffait, 1967, described from the ‘Caucasus’, remains ambiguous and its presence in Russia is unlikely. The identity of Quedius fulvipennis Hochhuth, 1851 from ‘Dahuria’ remains unknown, pending examination of the type material. For Quedius citelli Kirschenblatt, 1933 a lectotype is designated. For that species and Q. sofiri Khachikov, 2015 illustrations of the aedeagi are provided for the first time. The paper stresses the currently poor state of knowledge of the Quedius diversity in Russia and provides a platform for its improvement, which should begin with a large-scale sampling program, especially in Siberia and Far East.
["Palearctic"]

A Revision of North American Lactura (Lepidoptera, Zygaenoidea, Lacturidae)
The Lactura Walker, 1854 fauna north of Mexico is revised. Six species are documented, one new species Lactura nalli Matson & Wagner, sp. n. is described, and two new synonymies are proposed: Lactura psammitis (Zeller, 1872), syn. n. and L. rhodocentra (Meyrick, 1913), syn. n. One new subspecies Lactura subfervens sapeloensis Matson & Wagner, ssp. n. is also described. Adult and larval stages, male and female genitalia, are illustrated, a preliminary phylogeny is presented based on nuclear and mitochondrial data, distribution records provided for verified specimens, and the biology and life history for each species is briefly characterized. Phylogenetic analyses, larval phenotypes, and life history information reveal that much of the historic taxonomic confusion rampant across this group in North America traces to the phenotypic variation in just one species, L. subfervens (Walker, 1854).
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

First record of the genus Empidideicus Becker, 1907 (Diptera, Mythicomyiidae) in China and the Oriental Region, with description of a new species
Empidideicus Becker, 1907 is newly recorded from China and the Oriental Region, with one new species, E. pentagonius sp. n., described and illustrated. Observations are provided on the biology of E. pentagonius sp. n. visiting flowers of Stemona mairei (Levl.) Krause (Liliflorae, Stemonaceae). A key to the genera of Mythicomyiidae known to occur in China is provided.
["Empidideicus"]

A new semislug of the genus Laocaia (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Helicarionidae) from Vietnam
A new species of the genus Laocaia Kuzminykh, 1999, Laocaia simovi Dedov & Schneppat, sp. nov., is described, which was collected from a single locality in northern Vietnam. Color pictures of living specimens are provided. For the first time, information on the ecology and biology of a representative of the genus Laocaia is presented.
["Helicarionidae"]

A new caruncle-bearing fanged frog (Limnonectes, Dicroglossidae) from Laos and Thailand
A new species of the dicroglossid frog genus Limnonectes is described from recent and historical museum specimens collected in central and southern Laos and northeastern Thailand. Limnonectes savan sp. nov. has males that bear a caruncle on top of the head, and most closely resembles L. dabanus from adjacent southern Vietnam and eastern Cambodia. However, the new species is readily distinguished from L. dabanus, and all other caruncle-bearing species of Limnonectes in mainland Southeast Asia, by its adult and larval morphology, mitochondrial DNA, and advertisement call. Its description brings the total number of caruncle-bearing species of Limnonectes to six.

A new species of Bestiolina (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Paracalanidae) from coastal waters of the Colombian Pacific, including a worldwide key for the identification of the species
Plankton samples obtained from estuarine waters of the Colombian Pacific yielded adults specimens of an undescribed species of a paracalanid copepod of the genus Bestiolina. It most closely resembles two Asian species; B. sinica (Shen & Lee, 1966) from China and B. arabica (Ali, Al-Yamani & Prusova, 2007) from the Arabian Gulf. These three species share the absence of spinules on the posterior surfaces of exopod segments of legs 2, 3 and 4. Bestiolina sarae Dorado-Roncancio & Gaviria, sp. n. can be easily separated from B. sinica by the number of spinules on the anterior surface of endopod 2 of legs 2 and 3, and by the absence of spinules on the posterior surface of second endopod of leg 4. It can be distinguished from B. arabica by the presence of spinules on the posterior surface of endopod 2 of same legs (absent in B. arabica), and the size of spinules on the anterior surface of the same segments. The only other species known from the Americas, B. mexicana (Suárez-Morales & Almeyda-Artigas, 2016), can be distinguished from Bestiolina sarae Dorado-Roncancio & Gaviria, sp. n. by the presence of spinules on the posterior surface of the leg 2 first exopodal segment and the morphology of the mandible blade. The morphological and meristic differences to the eight known species of the genus are presented. An identification key to the species of Bestiolina is provided.
["Coastal zone"]

Ichthyofaunal list of the continental slope of the southern Gulf of Mexico
Four oceanographic cruises were carried out between April 2011 and May 2013 on the continental slope of the southern Gulf of Mexico (GoM) in a depth range of 290 to 1200 m on board the R/V JUSTO SIERRA. A total of 91 trawls covered a total swept area of 170.49 hectares. We recorded 177 fish species belonging to 80 families. Fifteen species extended their distribution into the south of the gulf and 37 increased their depth ranges. Five species could have commercial importance: Aphanopus carbo Lowe, 1839; Hydrolagus mirabilis (Collett, 1904); Helicolenus dactylopterus (Delaroche, 1809); Lophius gastrophysus Miranda Ribeiro, 1915, and Merluccius albidus (Mitchill, 1818). The most abundant species were Polymixia lowei Günther, 1859; Parasudis truculenta (Goode & Bean, 1896); M. albidus, Chlorophthalmus agassizi Bonaparte, 1840; Dibranchus atlanticus Peters, 1876; Nezumia aequalis (Günther, 1878); Yarrella blackfordi Goode & Bean, 1896; and Laemonema barbatulum Goode & Bean, 1883. High values of fish species richness, diversity, and evenness were registered throughout the study area. A high percentage of the fish species (97%) collected during this project are distributed in the entire GoM. Most of the species showed a wide depth distribution; however, a vertical zonation of species can be observed.
["Deep water"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A new and cryptic species of Lissodesmus Chamberlin, 1920 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Dalodesmidae) from Tasmania, Australia
Lissodesmus piscator sp. nov. differs from the 30 previously described Lissodesmus species in the form of the femoral process of the gonopod telopodite, which is tripartite with an erect distal branch and two posteromedially curving basal branches. Despite careful searching, the new species has only been collected by pitfall trapping and may have a very small range in the northwest corner of the Central Plateau in Tasmania, Australia.

New species and new records of the genus Deinopteroloma Jansson, 1946 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Omaliinae) from China
New morphological, taxonomic and faunistic data of the genus Deinopteroloma Jansson, 1946 from China are provided. Two species are described and illustrated: D. songi Peng & L.-Z. Li, sp. n. (Xizang: Pailong) and D. spinigerum Peng & L.-Z. Li, sp. n. (Hunan: Mangshan). New provincial records are provided for D. hamatum Smetana, 1996 from Anhui, Zhejiang and Jiangxi, D. obtortum Assing, 2015 from Sichuan, and D. tricuspidatum Smetana, 1996 from Zhejiang.

Type material comparison of possible cryptic species of the genus Electrogena (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) in Central Europe
The genus Electrogena Zurwerra & Tomka, 1985 is a diverse mayfly group in the Western Palaearctic with a partially unclear taxonomy, even in well-examined areas such as Central Europe. Recently, one of the species belonging to this genus, Electrogena ujhelyii (Sowa, 1981), was identified as a complex of genetically and geographically separated species. Two other species, Electrogena samalorum (Landa, 1982) and Electrogena rivuscellana Sartori & Landolt, 1991 were formerly stated as junior synonyms of the earlier species. The fact that the synonymy of E. samalorum and E. ujhelyii was stated without comparison of any larval or adult material and both species reportedly have different altitude preferences makes the taxonomical position of E. samalorum (and possibly E. rivuscellana) questionable. Among others, a comparison of type series is one of the first methods that should be used to clarify the taxonomical position of closely related taxa. The present study aims to comparatively examine the type material and topotypes of E. ujhelyii and its presumed junior synonym E. samalorum for the first time in detail. Additionally, some notes on the status of the geographically extralimital E. rivuscellana are discussed briefly. We noted a significant similarity of all studied material from both the larval and imaginal stages, and suggest considering both junior synonyms (E. samalorum and E. rivuscellana) as species inquirendae.
["Electrogena samalorum"]

Two new species of the genus Symphylella (Symphyla, Scolopendrellidae) from Tibet, China
The Symphyla of Tibet are studied for the first time. Symphylella macropora sp. n. and Symphylella zhongi sp. n. from southeastern Tibet are described and illustrated. Symphylella macropora sp. n. is characterized by large, elongated oval openings of the Tömösváry organ with its inner margins covered by minute irregular teeth, rudimentary spined sensory organs present on the dorsal side of most antennal segments, and cerci with numerous long and slightly curved setae. Symphylella zhongi sp. n. is characterized by a globular Tömösváry organ with a small and roundish opening, mushroom-shaped sensory organs present on apical antennal segments, and by having tergal processes longer than their basal width with ovoid swollen ends. The newly described species are compared to the morphologically closest congeners: S. javanensis, S. asiatica, S. multisetosa, and S. simplex. A key for 43 species of the genus is also provided.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Two new and one little-known damsel bug of the subfamily Prostemmatinae Reuter (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Nabidae) from China
Two damsel bugs belonging to two genera of the subfamily Prostemmatinae from China are reported as new to science: Alloeorhynchus (Alloeorhynchus) yunnanensis sp. n. and Rhamphocoris guizhouensis sp. n. The little-known species Alloeorhynchus (Alloeorhynchus) reinhardi Kerzhner & Günther, 1999 is redescribed. All species are illustrated in detail. Keys to the Chinese species of Rhamphocoris and Alloeorhynchus are provided aid in identification.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Systematic re-structure and new species of Sphaerodoridae (Annelida) after morphological revision and molecular phylogenetic analyses of the North East Atlantic fauna
Detailed morphological study of more than 2600 North East Atlantic (NEA) sphaerodorids (Sphaerodoridae Annelida) and phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequences of representatives of several identified morphospecies enforced changing the current systematic classification within the family allowed the discovery of new species provided new information about the morphological and genetic characterisation of members of this group and increased the species occurrence data to better infer their geographic and bathymetric distribution ranges. Phylogenetic analyses of nuclear (18S rRNA and 28S rRNA) and mitochondrial sequences (COI and 16S rRNA) of NEA short-bodied sphaerodorids revealed outstanding results including paraphyly of the genera Sphaerodoropsis Sphaerodoridium, and Sphaerephesia. The number of longitudinal and transverse rows of dorsal macrotubercles is proposed as potential synapomorphies for the main clades and are consequently herein used for the genera delimitation. The new classification proposed here implies nomenclatural changes and the erection of a new genus Geminofilum gen. n. to accommodate the species previously considered as Sphaerodoropsis with two transverse rows of dorsal macrotubercles per segment. Four species are being described herein: Euritmia nordica Capa & Bakken sp. n. Sphaerephesia multichaeta Capa Moreira & Parapar sp. n. Sphaerephesia ponsi Capa Parapar & Moreira sp. n. and Sphaerodoridium celiae Moreira Capa & Parapar sp. n. Characterisation of the other 21 species including updated iconography and an identification key to all NEA short-bodied sphaerodorids are provided.

Montiphylax, (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae), a new genus to accommodate the western North American species: Stenophylax antennatus Banks, 1900, Philocasca thor Nimmo, 1971, and Philocasca alba Nimmo, 1977
Montiphylax, a new genus within the Limnephilidae, is proposed to include Philocasca alba, P. antennata, and P. thor. Characters for the adults and larvae are presented to separate Montiphylax from Philocasca. A summary of the distribution and life history of the Montiphylax species is provided. A key to ease separation of the known North American caddisfly larvae with gill clusters of single filaments is given.
["Association"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

An unknown collection of lizards from Afghanistan
Afghanistan is a herpetologically understudied country with few published papers since the end of “Afghanistan’s Golden Age” from the 1930s to the 1970s. Although a detailed checklist of the herpetofauna of the country, based on exploration of herpetodiversity using biodiversity archives, has been published recently, there still exist additional historical data that have not been considered. This is the case for a so far unknown collection of lizards from Afghanistan deposited in the herpetological collection of the Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković at the University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia. The material comes from field research conducted in 1972 and contains 27 specimens in seven lizard genera representing four families (Agamidae, Gekkonidae, Lacertidae, Scincidae). This historical collection was examined and basic morphometric data, field data, and photographs are provided, comparing the distributional data with published datasets. Updated species distribution maps reveal new locality or province records and an important range extension for Eurylepis taeniolata Blyth, 1854 which represents the northernmost record for this species in Afghanistan. In addition, one further distribution record for the Bufotes viridis (Laurenti, 1768) complex from the same research trip is noted.
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Reef-associated fishes from the offshore reefs of western Campeche Bank, Mexico, with a discussion of mangroves and seagrass beds as nursery habitats
A series of small emergent coral reefs and shallow, submerged coralliferous banks are scattered along the western edge of Campeche Bank (southwest Gulf of Mexico), 150–200 km offshore from the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. Here a reasonably comprehensive, annotated checklist of reef-associated fishes for one reef, Cayo Arcas (expanded from 162 to 209 species) is presented, with preliminary checklists of such fishes from three other emergent reefs (Cayo Arenas, Triángulo Oeste, Triángulo Este) and four submerged bank reefs (Banco Obispo Norte, Banco Obispo Sur, Banco Nuevo and Banco Pera). During 2017–18 a total of 260 species was observed or collected from those reefs, and previous studies and georeferenced museum records in the global aggregator Fishnet2 added another 101 shallow-living species recorded on or adjacent to those reefs. Some coral-reef fishes are thought to be strongly dependent on seagrass and mangrove areas as nursery habitats for maintenance of their local populations on reefs near to those habitats. The abundance of a number of such “nursery” species on these Campeche reefs indicates otherwise, as there are no seagrass- or mangrove habitats for reef fishes within ~ 150 km of the study reefs. Other isolated Caribbean-area reefs that lack mangroves and, in some cases, seagrasses, also support many such nursery species of reef-fishes.
["endemic species"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Review of the genus Stigmus Panzer (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae) in China, with description of five new species from the Oriental and Palearctic Regions
Five new species of the genus Stigmus: S. capoblongus Bashir & Ma, sp. n., S. denticorneus Bashir & Ma, sp. n., S. fronticoncavus Bashir & Ma, sp. n., S. interruptus Bashir & Ma, sp. n. and S. lobomelanicus Bashir & Ma, sp. n. are described and illustrated from China. Also, a key to the species of Stigmus Panzer occurring in China is provided.
["Hymenoptera"]

Anatomical and phylogenetic investigation of the genera Alabastrina Kobelt, 1904, Siretia Pallary, 1926, and Otala Schumacher, 1817 (Stylommatophora, Helicidae)
This study presents new insights in the anatomy of genital organs of some large helicid gastropods from northern Africa. The genetic analysis with the markers COI, 16S, H3, and 5.8 S rRNA+ITS2 reveales a high support for Alabastrina and Otala as separate evolutionary lineages within the Otalini. The position of Siretia as another separate lineage within the Otalini is discussed. “Tingitana minettei decussata” clusters within the O. xanthodon clade and confirms that the genus Tingitana can be synonymised with Otala. The genus Alabastrina differs from all other known genera by possession of a penial appendix. This character state is also found in topotypic A. tistutensis. Examination of the twin penial papilla system in Otala recovers a reduction of the proximal penial papilla in O. punctata. The position of Helix murcica as a separate subspecies of O. lactea is not supported, and it is here considered to be a synonym of the latter species.
["Alabastrina"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control"]

New genera, a new species, and a key to the genera of Ashieldophyinae (Acari, Eriophyoidea) from India
Two new genera, Brevishieldophyes Chakrabarti & Pandit, gen. n. and Mesoshieldophyes Chakrabarti & Pandit, gen. n., and a new species Mesoshieldophyes varecae Chakrabarti & Pandit, sp. n. are described. These mites are leaf vagrants. The morphological characters of the afore-mentioned genera and those of Ashieldophyes Mohanasundaram are compared. A key for separating the genera within the subfamily Ashieldophyinae is provided. The diagnostic characters of the subfamily Ashieldophyinae are also revised.
["Ashieldophyes"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Richness and composition of anuran assemblages from an Amazonian savanna
The Amazonian savannas occupy approximately 150,000 km2 of the Brazilian Amazon, occurring in scattered isolated patches over large areas of forest in the states of Amapá, Amazonas, Pará, Roraima and Rondônia. Despite having considerable variation in the Anuran composition between locations and between the savanna’s physiognomies, a systematic and geographically wide sampling has not been performed for the savanna from Amapá yet, located in the north of Brazil, eastern Amazonia. In this perspective, a study was conducted on the richness, composition, diversity, and abundance of Anuran species in a ​​savanna area in Amapá State. For Anuran sampling, we performed 24 samples in four physiognomies (grassland savanna, scrub grassland savanna, parkland savanna, open woodland savanna) through an active and auditory search more than 20 sampling plots of 100 × 50 meters in each physiognomy. Twenty-one (21) species of frogs belonging to five families were registered: Bufonidae, Hylidae, Leptodactylidae, Microhylidae and Phyllomedusidae. Scrub grassland savanna registered a greater number of individuals regarding the species richness by physiognomy. The species rarefaction curve for the total area reached an asymptote, suggesting that the data collection effort was enough to adequately sample the species richness of the area. The Kruskal-Wallis variance analysis revealed significant differences in the species richness and diversity among the physiognomies. The Bray-Curtis similarity analysis grouped the physiognomies into three main groups: open woodland savanna, grassland savanna and scrub grassland savanna and parkland savanna. Through ordering by non-metric multidimensional scaling, the species composition from the savanna anuran assemblage resulted in a separation among three sampled physiognomies with significant differences, indicating differences in assemblage composition of the three sampled physiognomies. The local richness (21 species) corresponds to 14% of the 15 typical species that have strongly associated distribution with the Cerrado from Central Brazil, and 35.6% of 59 typical species of neighboring domains which only marginally occur in the Cerrado, representing a considerable part of frog species richness recorded in the savanna in the eastern portion of the Brazilian Amazon.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A review of Aulacospira Möllendorff, 1890 and Pseudostreptaxis Möllendorff, 1890 in the Philippines (Gastropoda, Pupilloidea, Hypselostomatidae)
The genera Aulacospira and Pseudostreptaxis of the Philippines are revised based on the collections of the Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum (Frankfurt am Main, Germany), the Florida Museum of Natural History (USA), and recently collected material. Three new species are described: Aulacospira lens Páll-Gergely & Auffenberg, sp. n., Aulacospira krobyloides Páll-Gergely & Schilthuizen, sp. n., Pseudostreptaxis harli Páll-Gergely & Schilthuizen, sp. n.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mercury impact and mitigation studies"]

Two new species of the ant genus Acanthomyrmex Emery, 1893 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) from Thailand
Acanthomyrmex Emery, 1893 is a small myrmicine genus of the tribe Crematogastrini. Seventeen species of the genus have been recorded from Southeast Asia. Herein, two new species from Thailand (Acanthomyrmex malikuli sp. n. and Acanthomyrmex mizunoi sp. n.) are added to this genus. Both species belong to Acanthomyrmex luciolae species group. Acanthomyrmex malikuli was collected from hard dead wood on forest floor, while A. mizunoi nested in soil.
["Acanthomyrmex malikuli"]

Myrmarachnine jumping spiders of the new subtribe Levieina from Papua New Guinea (Araneae, Salticidae, Myrmarachnini)
A previously unreported radiation of myrmarachnine jumping spiders from New Guinea is described, which, although having few known species, is remarkably diverse in body forms. This clade is the new subtribe Levieina, represented by seven new species in three new genera. Within Leviea gen. n. are three new species, L. herberti sp. n., L. lornae sp. n., and L. francesae sp. n., all of which are unusual among the myrmarachnines in appearing as typical salticids, not antlike. Papuamyr gen. n. superficially resembles Ligonipes Karsch, 1878 or Rhombonotus L. Koch, 1879 as a compact antlike spider, but lacks their laterally-compressed palp and bears an ectal spur on the paturon of the chelicera. Two species of Papuamyr gen. n. are described, Papuamyr omhifosga sp. n. and P. pandora sp. n. Agorioides gen. n., containing A. cherubino sp. n. and A. papagena sp. n., is antlike, with the carapace sunken inwards (concave) between the posterior lateral and posterior median eyes. Phylogenetic analysis of data from the 28S, 16SND1, and COI gene regions of 29 species of myrmarachnines shows that the three new genera form a clade that is sister to the subtribe Myrmarachnina (Myrmarachne sensu lato), with the subtribe Ligonipedina less closely related.
["Ant mimicry"]

An annotated type catalogue of seven genera of operculate land snails (Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoridae) in the Natural History Museum, London
The collection of the seven cyclophorid snail genera housed in the Natural History Museum, London (NHM), includes 95 available species-level names belonging to the genera Pterocyclos Benson, 1832, Cyclotus Swainson, 1840, Myxostoma Troschel, 1847, Rhiostoma Benson, 1860, Scabrina Blanford, 1863, Crossopoma Martens, 1891, and Pearsonia Kobelt, 1902. Lectotypes are here designated for twelve available species-level names to stabilise existing the nomenclature. A complete catalogue of these types, including colour photographs, is provided for the first time. After examining these type specimens, an unpublished manuscript name was found and is described herein as Pterocyclos anamullayensis Sutcharit & Panha, sp. n.
["systematics"]

Review of the genus Bolbochromus (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea, Geotrupidae, Bolboceratinae) in the Philippines
The genus Bolbochromus Boucomout, 1909 from the Philippines is reviewed for the first time. Six species in two subgenera, Metabolbochromus Krikken & Li, 2013 and Bolbochromus, including three new species, Bolbochromus (Bolbochromus) jengi Li & Krikken, sp. n., Bolbochromus (Bolbochromus) luzonensis Li & Krikken, sp. n., and Bolbochromus (Bolbochromus) setosifrons Li & Wang, sp. n., are described with diagnoses, illustrations, distributional data and remarks. A key for the identification of Philippine species is provided. An annotated checklist of the genus in the Philippines is given with information for each species including literature review, synonymy, distribution, and type locality.
["Scarabaeoidea"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Two new species of Yunnanomonticola Telnov (Coleoptera, Anthicidae) from China
Two new species of the genus Yunnanomonticola Telnov, 2002 are described based on the specimens collected in China. Yunnanomonticola latissima sp. n. is collected from Yunnan and Y. tenuipenis sp. n. is from Guizhou. Photographes of the new species are provided, with a key to the three species of Yunnanomonticola.
["Anthicidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Four new species of Philoplitis Nixon (Braconidae, Microgastrinae) with an updated key and illustrations of all described species
The Microgastrinae genus Philoplitis Nixon is revised and four new species are described: P. keralensis sp. n. and P. trifoveatus sp. n. authored by Ranjith & Fernandez-Triana, and P. dzangasangha sp. n. and P. margalla sp. n. authored by Fernandez-Triana & Ranjith. A key to all nine known species is provided. Philoplitis adustipalpus Ahmad is redescribed and illustrated. Additional specimen records are presented, and the diagnostic value of some morphological characters previously used is discussed. Based on the very few specimens available for study in collections, Philoplitis seems to be restricted to the Old World tropics (Afrotropical and Oriental regions), with most known species found in the Oriental region. The first DNA barcodes for the genus are presented. No host data is currently available, but for one species a mass of five wasp cocoons was found and is illustrated for the first time.

First description of the male of Volesus nigripennis Champion, 1899, with new records from Ecuador and Panama, taxonomical notes, and an updated key to the genera of Sphaeridopinae (Hemiptera, Reduviidae)
The genus Volesus Champion, 1899 is redescribed and the male of V. nigripennis Champion, 1899 is described for the first time and found to be similar to the female in both structure and coloration. The genus and the species are recorded from Ecuador and Panama for the first time. Notes on the taxonomic history of Sphaeridopinae and an updated key to the genera are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Dwarfs under dinosaur legs: a new millipede of the order Callipodida (Diplopoda) from Cretaceous amber of Burma
The entire Mesozoic Era is rather poor in millipede (class Diplopoda) fossils, with less than a dozen species being taxonomically described. Here, we describe the first fossil millipede of the order Callipodida, Burmanopetalum inexpectatum gen. nov. et sp. nov., found in early Cenomanian amber of Burma, 98.79±0.62 Mya. The species possesses a number of morphological traits that exclude it from all extant suborders, and Burmanopetalidea suborder nov. and Burmanopetalidae fam. nov. are here erected to accommodate it. The new suborder can be recognized by the following unique characters: pleurotergal setae absent; telson with a specific spatulate shape twice the size of the penultimate body ring; hypoproct devoid of setae; and eyes composed of five well-separated ommatidia. While the callipodidan habitus seems to have remained generally unchanged for at least 99 million years, pleurotergal and hypoproctal setation, as well as the complexity of eyes in ground-dwelling forms may have evolved recently in the order. As B. inexpectatum gen. nov. et sp. nov. is the first true callipodidan in the fossil record, the minimum age of Callipodida is thus at least 99 Mya.
["Burmanopetalidea suborder nov."]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Review of the fish parasitic genus Elthusa Schioedte & Meinert, 1884 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cymothoidae) from South Africa, including the description of three new species
The branchial-attaching cymothoid genus, Elthusa Schioedte & Meinert, 1884 is a genus with a worldwide distribution of 36 species, including the three species described here. Elthusa raynaudii (Milne Edwards, 1840) is the only species that has been described from southern Africa. All South African material held at the National Museum of Natural History, Paris, France (MNHN) and the Iziko South African Museum, Cape Town (SAMC) identified as, or appearing to belong to, Elthusa was examined. Four species were identified, Elthusa raynaudii and three species that proved to be undescribed. Elthusa xena sp. n. can be distinguished by an evenly rounded pereonite 1 anterior margin, a roughly rectangular pleotelson, and narrowly rounded uropod apices that extend to more than half the length of the pleotelson. Elthusa acutinasa sp. n. is identified by the produced and narrowly rounded cephalon anterior margin, acute uropods that are shorter than half the length of the pleotelson, and pereonite 1 anterior margin with medial projection. Elthusa rotunda sp. n. is characterised by the round body shape, broadly rounded uropod apices, and protrusions on the proximal and lateral margins of the merus and carpus of pereopod 7. A key to the South African Elthusa species is provided, together with a table summarising the hosts and localities of the 33 previously known species of Elthusa.
["Alexander Bay"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A new species of Wesmaelius Krüger from Mexico, with a key to the New World species of the subgenus Kimminsia Killington (Neuroptera, Hemerobiidae)
Wesmaelius (Kimminsia) nanacamilpa Marquez & Contreras, sp. n., a brown lacewing from Tlaxcala state, Mexico is described and illustrated. This is the second recorded species of Wesmaelius from Mexico, and the third from Middle America. Males of the new species may be identified by parameres separate apically, styliform sclerites directed basally, as well as a rounded gonarcus with a short entoprocessus. Females may be distinguished from closely related species by a subgenital plate with the central plate broadly incised basally. There are now 16 species of Wesmaelius known from the New World.
["Brown lacewings"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new Nigerian hunter snail species related to Ennea serrata d’Ailly, 1896 (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Streptaxidae) with notes on the West African species attributed to Parennea Pilsbry, 1919
Ennea nigeriensis sp. n. is described from southeastern Nigeria on the basis of external and internal shell morphology. Following Pilsbry’s formal criteria of a single palatal fold and corresponding external furrow, the new species may be assigned to Parennea. Ennea nigeriensis sp. n. exhibits substantial similarity with E. serrata, a species from Cameroon, in the cylindrical shell shape, crenulate suture, and internal shell morphology, indicating that the two species are closely related. CT scanning confirmed the presence of only a single palatal fold in E. nigeriensis sp. n. and two in E. serrata. In spite of this, the Nigerian species is provisionally assigned to Ennea rather than Parennea, suggesting that the characters used to define Ennea and Parennea are insufficient to delimit natural groups of species. The holotype of E. serrata is examined for the first time since its description in 1896 and a redescription of the species is provided based on the two shells hitherto known. Study of the original specimens recorded as Ptychotrema (Parennea) sulciferum by Degner from Liberia reveals these to belong to Ennea cf. thompsonae. The Nigerian shell recorded by van Bruggen as Ptychotrema (Parennea) aequatoriale proved to be a specimen of Ennea cf. perforata. As a result, no species attributable to Parennea now appear to be known in West Africa; in contrast, numerous species are known from central and eastern Africa.

Conchological and molecular analysis of the “non-scaly” Bornean Georissa with descriptions of three new species (Gastropoda, Neritimorpha, Hydrocenidae)
The Bornean representatives of the genus Georissa (Hydrocenidae) have small, dextral, conical, calcareous shells consisting of ca. three teleoconch whorls. Our recent study on the Georissa of Malaysian Borneo has revealed high intra- and inter-specific variation in the “scaly” group (a group of species with striking scale-like surface sculpture). The present study on the “non-scaly” Georissa is the continuation of the species revision for the genus. The “non-scaly” species are also diverse in shell sculptures. This informal group comprises Georissa with subtle spiral and/or radial sculpture. The combination of detailed conchological assessment and molecular analyses provides clear distinctions for each of the species. Conchological, molecular, and biogeographic details are presented for 16 species of “non-scaly” Georissa. Three of these are new to science, namely Georissa corrugata sp. n., Georissa insulae sp. n., and Georissa trusmadi sp. n.
["Gastropods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Sea anemones (Cnidaria, Actiniaria) of Singapore: redescription and taxonomy of Phymanthus pinnulatus Martens in Klunzinger, 1877
Despite the ubiquity of sea anemones (Cnidaria: Actiniaria) in tropical ecosystems, our understanding of their biodiversity and taxonomy is limited. Here we re-establish the identity of an intertidal zooxanthellate species, Phymanthus pinnulatus Martens in Klunzinger, 1877. Originally described from a single preserved specimen in the Berlin Museum by CB Klunzinger, his brief footnote lacked crucial details to positively identify the species. Our redescription is based on more than 50 living individuals of P. pinnulatus collected from its type locality, Singapore. These were examined and compared with type materials of the species and its congeners. Specimens of P. pinnulatus differ from syntypes of species described as Phymanthus levis Kwietniewski, 1898 from Indonesia, as well as Phymanthus sansibaricus Carlgren, 1900 and Phymanthus strandesi Carlgren, 1900, both described from East Africa. Phymanthus pinnulatus was encountered on the lower intertidal, among coral rubble and between rocky crevices. It is vibrantly coloured and has 96 marginal tentacles with branching outgrowths along each, resulting in a ‘frilly’ appearance. The anemone has a flat expanded oral disc, with discal tentacles that are inconspicuous and reduced, unlike syntypes of its congeners. Details of its live appearance, musculature, and cnidom are also provided for the first time. Overall, types of cnidae and capsule sizes differ from other known species of Phymanthus documented elsewhere. It is inferred that P. pinnulatus has a wide distribution that extends eastwards from Singapore, as far as Ambon and the Torres Straits. Some individuals reported as Phymanthus muscosus Haddon and Shackleton, 1893 and Phymanthus buitendijki Pax, 1924 are probably P. pinnulatus. This morphological analysis provides new insights into the characters used to delimit P. pinnulatus, clarifies its geographical distribution, and contributes to an ongoing revision of the genus Phymanthus.
["Actinoidea"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Multilocus genetic and morphological phylogenetic analysis reveals a radiation of shiny South Asian jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae)
This study presents a systematic revision of South Asian members of the Tribe Chrysillini Simon, 1901. Genetic and morphological variations were analysed of a “similar-looking” group of species that were initially identified as members of the jumping spider genera Chrysilla Thorell, 1887 and Phintella Strand, in Bösenberg and Strand 1906 to determine their phylogenetic relationships. Results suggest that the assessed morphospecies complex constitute of three evolutionary lineages, two previously unrecognised, which are described and diagnosed as two new genera: Phintelloides gen. n. and Proszynskia gen. n. The third lineage, Phintella, is sister to these proposed genera. The following new species are described: Phintelloides alborea sp. n., P. brunne sp. n., P. flavoviri sp. n., P. flavumi sp. n., P. orbisa sp. n., Phintella argentea sp. n., and P. jaleeli sp. n. Sri Lanka is rich in biodiversity but currently has one of the highest rates of deforestation. Lack of clarity on diversity and distribution of the islands’ biodiversity can lead to underestimations during threat assessments and thus downgrading of conservation needs of individual species.
["Chrysillini"]

Molecular evidence for cryptic species in the common slug eating snake Duberria lutrix lutrix (Squamata, Lamprophiidae) from South Africa
We examined the impact of climatic fluctuations on the phylogeographic structure of the common slug eating snake (Duberria lutrix lutrix) throughout its distribution in South Africa. The evolutionary history within the taxon was examined using partial DNA sequence data for two mitochondrial genes (ND4 + cyt b) in combination with a nuclear locus (SPTBN1). Phylogenetic relationships were investigated for both the combined mtDNA and total evidence DNA sequence data. In addition, population and demographic analyses together with divergence time estimations were conducted on the combined mtDNA data. Topologies derived from the combined mtDNA analyses and the total evidence analyses were congruent and retrieved five statistically well-supported clades, suggesting that Duberria l. lutrix represents a species complex. The five clades were generally allopatric, separated by altitudinal barriers and characterised by the absence of shared mtDNA haplotypes suggesting long term isolation. Divergence time estimations indicate that the diversification within the D. l. lutrix species complex occurred during the Plio/Pleistocene as a result of climatic fluctuations and habitat shifts for the species. A taxonomic revision of the D. l. lutrix species complex may be required to delineate possible species boundaries.
["snakes"]

A new soil centipede from South-East Asia with a unique arrangement of ventral glands, and a revised synopsis of Gonibregmatidae (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha)
A new gonibregmatid centipede, Vinaphilus unicus gen. n., sp. n., is described based on two females from a single location in northern Vietnam. The new genus and species are distinguished mainly by the arrangement of the ventral pore-fields, which is unique among all Chilopoda. A critically revised synopsis of the Gonibregmatidae is also given. In particular, three species are provisionally recognized in Himatosoma Pocock, 1891: H. bidivisum Silvestri, 1919, H. porosum Pocock, 1891 (= H. typicum tridivisum Silvestri, 1919, syn. n.), and H. typicum Pocock, 1891. The genera Dschangelophilus Verhoeff, 1937 and Tweediphilus Verhoeff, 1937, with their species D. coloratus Verhoeff, 1937 and T. malaccanus Verhoeff, 1937, are moved to the Gonibregmatidae, whereas Geoporophilus aporus Attems, 1930 is moved to the Oryidae as Orphnaeus aporus (Attems, 1930), comb. n.

New records of Benthesicymus Bate, 1881 (Dendrobranchiata, Penaeoidea, Benthesicymidae) from the abyssal depths of Taiwan
The deep-sea Benthesicymus shrimps generally inhabit waters deeper than 1000 m deep. Recent deep-sea cruises off Taiwan collected two species of Benthesicymus Bate, 1881 from the abyssal depths greater than 3,000 m. They are B. crenatus Bate, 1881 and B. laciniatus Rathbun, 1906. Both of them are new records for Taiwan, with B. crenatus also representing the deepest (5,314 m) marine animal so far known for the island. The major distinguishing characters of these two species are described and illustrated.
["deep-sea"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Simopone fisheri sp. n., a new species of Dorylinae ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from China, with an illustrated key to the S. grandidieri-group species
Simopone fisheri sp. n., a new species of the subfamily Dorylinae, is described based on the worker caste. The new species is separated easily from the other named congeners by the longitudinally striate sculpture on the posterolateral portion of pronotum. An illustrated key is presented to species of the S. grandidieri group based on the worker caste.
["Simopone grandidieri group"]

Cryptic diversity in Lithobates warszewitschii (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae)
Lithobates warszewitschii is a species of ranid frog distributed from southern Honduras to Panama. This species suffered severe population declines at higher elevations (above 500 m a.s.l.) from the 1980s to early 1990s, but there is more recent evidence of recovery in parts of its range. Here we advocate for the status of Lithobates warszewitschii as a candidate cryptic species complex based on sequence data from mitochondrial genes CO1 and 16S. Using concatenated phylogenies, nucleotide diversity (K2P-π), net between group mean distance (NBGMD) (πnet) and species delimitation methods, we further elucidate cryptic diversity within this species. All phylogenies display polyphyletic lineages within Costa Rica and Panama. At both loci, observed genetic polymorphism (K2P-π) is also high within and between geographic populations, surpassing proposed species threshold values for amphibians. Additionally, patterns of phylogeographic structure are complicated for this species, and do not appear to be explained by geographic barriers or isolation by distance. These preliminary findings suggest L. warszewitschii is a wide-ranging species complex. Therefore, we propose further research within its wider range, and recommend integrative taxonomic assessment is merited to assess species status.
["\u00c1rea de Conservaci\u00f3n Guanacaste (ACG)"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

An annotated list of the Chamaemyiidae (Diptera, Acalyptrata) of Turkey with new records and additional data
A list of all the species of Chamaemyiidae known from Turkey is compiled from the literature and supplemented by new records. A total of 40 species in five genera is given with updated nomenclature. One undescribed species is illustrated but not named for lack of males. The distribution of each species outside Turkey is summarised.
["Silver-flies"]

A new species of Pista Malmgren, 1866 (Polychaeta, Terebellidae) from the north-western Mediterranean Sea
A new species of Terebellidae, Pista colini sp. n., has been identified from the harbour of Banyuls-sur-Mer, north-western Mediterranean Sea. This new species was found in very high densities, exclusively in gravelly sand deposited manually, and was not found in the original source habitat of the gravel. This species is characterized by the colour of the ventral shields with pinkish anterior part and a blood red posterior part in live specimens, a pair of unequal-sized plumose branchiae inserted on segment II and anterior thoracic neuropodia with long-handled uncini. The presence of long-handled uncini even in the smallest specimens constitutes the major difference between Pista colini sp. n. and other Pista species with a single pair of branchiae such as P. lornensis and P. bansei.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Four new species of Hexanchorus Sharp from Ecuador (Coleoptera, Elmidae) with DNA barcoding and notes on the distribution of the genus
The riffle beetle genus Hexanchorus Sharp, 1882 is distributed from Mexico to Argentina, forming an important component of the freshwater invertebrate fauna of Latin America. With 21 described species, Hexanchorus represents one of the most speciose Larainae genera, but its real diversity is likely much higher. We analysed material from a relatively small area in Ecuador, resulting in the first record of H. cordillierae for Ecuador and discovery of four new species and one subspecies: Hexanchorus virilis sp. n., Hexanchorus rostratus sp. n., Hexanchorus shepardi sp. n., Hexanchorus onorei sp. n. and Hexanchorus onorei sagittatus ssp. n. For delimiting and characterizing species, both morphological and molecular (mtCOI DNA barcodes) data were used. A distribution map of Hexanchorus species is provided based on published records.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A monograph on the genus Tetraserica from the Indochinese region (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
In this monograph on the Indochinese species of Tetraserica Ahrens, 2004 all species distributed in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and mainland Malaysia are covered as well as those of the Indian province Mizoram. From this revision, the following new combinations result: Tetraserica gressitti (Frey, 1972), comb. n., T. laotica (Frey, 1972), comb. n., T. satura (Brenske, 1898), comb. n., T. sejugata (Brenske, 1898), comb. n., T. siantarensis (Moser, 1922), comb. n., T. spinicrus (Frey, 1972), comb. n., T. vietnamensis (Frey, 1969), comb. n., and T. wapiensis (Frey, 1972), comb. n. Two new synonyms were found: Tetraserica midoriae Kobayashi, 2017 (syn. n.) = T. laotica (Frey, 1972); T. graciliforceps Liu et al. 2014 (syn. n.) = T. satura (Brenske, 1898). The lectotypes of Tetraserica gestroi (Brenske, 1898), T. miniatula (Moser, 1915), and T. siantarensis (Moser, 1922) are designated. 116 Tetraserica species were recorded from Indochina, among which 88 new species are described: Tetraserica allochangshouensis sp. n., T. allomengeana sp. n., T. allosejugata sp. n., T. angkorthomensis sp. n., T. angkorwatensis sp. n., T. appendiculata sp. n., T. auriculata sp. n., T. bachmaensis sp. n., T. banhuaipoensis sp. n., T. bansanpakiana sp. n., T. bolavensensis sp. n., T. breviforceps sp. n., T. cattienensis sp. n., T. champassakana sp. n., T. constanti sp. n., T. cucphongensis sp. n., T. curviforceps sp. n., T. desalvazzai sp. n., T. doiphukhaensis sp. n., T. doipuiensis sp. n., T. doisuthepensis sp. n., T. dongnaiensis sp. n., T. falciforceps sp. n., T. falciformis sp. n., T. feresiantarensis sp. n., T. filiforceps sp. n., T. fulleri sp. n., T. phukradungensis sp. n., T. geiserae sp. n., T. giulianae sp. n., T. infida sp. n., T. jakli sp. n., T. khaosoidaoensis sp. n., T. kiriromensis sp. n., T. koi sp. n., T. kollae sp. n., T. konchurangensis sp. n., T. kontumensis sp. n., T. loeiensis sp. n., T. lucai sp. n., T. microfurcata sp. n., T. microspinosa sp. n., T. multiangulata sp. n., T. nahaeoensis sp. n., T. nakaiensis sp. n., T. namnaoensis sp. n., T. neouncinata sp. n., T. nonglomensis sp. n., T. nussi sp. n., T. olegi sp. n., T. pahinngamensis sp. n., T. pailinensis sp. n., T. parasetuliforceps sp. n., T. paratonkinensis sp. n., T. petrpacholatkoi sp. n., T. phatoensis sp. n., T. phoupaneensis sp. n., T. pluriuncinata sp. n., T. pseudoliangheensis sp. n., T. pseudoruiliensis sp. n., T. pseudouncinata sp. n., T. quadriforceps sp. n., T. quadrifurcata sp. n., T. rihai sp. n., T. romae sp. n., T. rubrithorax sp. n., T. sapana sp. n., T. semidamadiensis sp. n., T. semipingjiangensis sp. n., T. semiruiliensis sp. n., T. semishanensis sp. n., T. setuliforceps sp. n., T. shanensis sp. n., T. smetsi sp. n., T. margheritae sp. n., T. soppongana sp. n., T. spanglerorum sp. n., T. spinotibialis sp. n., T. subrotundata sp. n., T. tanahrataensis sp. n., T. thainguyensis sp. n., T. trilobiforceps sp. n., T. ululalatensis sp. n., T. umphangensis sp. n., T. vari sp. n., T. veliformis sp. n., T. vientianeensis sp. n., and T. xiengkhouangensis sp. n. A key to the Indochinese Tetraserica species is given and distributions as well as the habitus and male genitalia of all species are illustrated.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Batumi Raptor Count: autumn raptor migration count data from the Batumi bottleneck, Republic of Georgia
One of the most important geographical bottlenecks for migrating raptors in the east African-Palearctic migration system is situated between the easternmost tip of the Black Sea and the Lesser Caucasus, just north of Batumi, in the Republic of Georgia. Since 2008, citizen scientists of the Batumi Raptor Count (BRC) have monitored the autumn raptor passage daily from mid-August until mid-October, collecting also detailed information about the age and sex of focal species. The full BRC dataset was recently made available through the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). Here we describe how count data were collected, managed, and processed for trend analysis over the past 10 years. This dataset offers a unique baseline for monitoring the state of migrant raptor populations in the east African-Palearctic flyway in the 21st century. We discuss potential pitfalls for users and hope that the open access publication of our data will stimulate flyway-scale and continent-wide collaboration for raptor migration monitoring in the Old World.
["Black Sea flyway"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Revision of world Sphecomyia Latreille (Diptera, Syrphidae)
The 16 world species of Sphecomyia Latreille are revised, including seven previously undescribed species (S. cryptica Moran, sp. n., S. hoguei Moran, sp. n., S. interrupta Moran, sp. n., S. oraria Moran, sp. n., S. pseudosphecomima Moran, sp. n., S. sexfasciata Moran, sp. n., and S. weismani Moran, sp. n.). Descriptions, redescriptions, male genitalia photographs, distribution maps, and an illustrated key for all Sphecomyia are presented. DNA barcode data are provided for all 16 species with a cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene tree presented and discussed. Sphecomyia stat. rev. is redefined to represent the monophyletic lineage of species within subtribe Criorhinina possessing a bare, medial vitta extending ventrally from the oral margin in both sexes, a bare gena, a bare katepimeron, a scutellum with at least anterior margin densely pruinose, an anterior ventral half of vein C before crossvein h without setae, and a narrow intersection of vein R1 with vein C. Three species groups of Sphecomyia are identified: the S. vittata group which possess pruinose scutellar vittae, the S. pattonii group which lack pruinose scutellar vittae, and S. metallica (Bigot), a hairy bee mimic with a completely pruinose scutum. Criorhina tsherepanovi Violovitsh is resurrected and transferred, along with Criorhina aino Stackelberg, to the genus Sphecomyia: S. tsherepanovi (Violovitsh), comb. n. and S. aino (Stackelberg), comb. n. Criorhina metallica (Bigot) is designated as the senior synonym of C. lupina (Williston), not junior as improperly treated, and transferred to Sphecomyia: S. metallica (Bigot), comb. n. The species Sphecomyia fusca Weisman, S. nasica Osburn, and S. occidentalis Osburn are transferred to Criorhina Meigen: C. fusca (Weisman), comb. n., C. nasica (Osburn), comb. n., and C. occidentalis (Osburn), comb. n.
["Criorhina"]

Revision of the genus Emphylica Turner, 1913 based on morphology and molecular data (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Pyraustinae)
Moths of the genus Emphylica Turner, 1913 resemble species of Achyra Guenée, 1849, Loxostege Hübner, 1825 and Sitochroa Hübner, 1825 in having a conical frons. In order to examine the monophyly of Emphylica, and its relationship to other genera with a conical frons, a molecular phylogenetic framework is reconstructed based on sequence data of COI, 16S rRNA, 28S rRNA, EF-1α and Wg gene regions. The results robustly support the monophyly of Emphylica. Achyra + (Loxostege + Sitochroa) is in a sister position to Emphylica. A new species, E. crassihamata sp. n., is described from Southern China and two new combinations, E. diaphana (Caradja & Meyrick, 1934), comb. n. and E. cruoralis (Warren, 1895), comb. n., are proposed. An identification key based on males is provided for all Emphylica species. The adult habitus and genitalia of all species are figured.
["Achyra"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Prognathodes geminus, a new species of butterflyfish (Teleostei, Chaetodontidae) from Palau
A new species of the butterflyfish genus Prognathodes (Chaetodontidae) is described from two specimens collected at a depth of 116 m off Ngemelis Island, Palau. Prognathodes geminus sp. n. is similar to P. basabei Pyle & Kosaki, 2016 from the Hawaiian archipelago, and P. guezei (Maugé & Bauchot, 1976) from the western Indian Ocean, but differs from these species in the number of soft dorsal-fin rays, size of head, body width, and body depth. There are also subtle differences in life color, and substantial differences in the mtDNA cytochrome oxidase I sequence (d ≈ 0.08). Although genetic comparisons with P. guezei are unavailable, it is expected that the genetic divergence between P. guezei and P. geminus will be even greater than that between P. geminus and P. basabei. It is named for the strikingly similar color pattern it shares with P. basabei.
["Closed-circuit rebreather"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A revision of Dolichogenidea (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) with the second mediotergite broadly rectangular from Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica
The first species of Dolichogenidea (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Microgastrinae) with the second mediotergite broadly quadrate to rectangular are revised, and eight new species from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica are described, all authored by Fernandez-Triana & Boudreault: alejandromasisi, angelagonzalezae, carlosmanuelrodriguezi, genuarnunezi, josealfredohernandezi, melaniamunozae, rogerblancoi, and yeimycedenoae. A new species group (carlosmanuelrodriguezi) within the genus is proposed to accommodate those species, as well as additional undescribed species from the Neotropical region found in collections. All new species are found in rainforests (120–900 m) and all are parasitoids of Depressariidae (except for one species parasitizing Choreutidae). The unique shape of the second mediotergite and long ovipositor are features shared with the alejandromorai species group in the genus Apanteles, an example of convergent evolution; both wasp groups also parasitize similar hosts in ACG.
["Area de Conservaci\u00f3n Guanacaste"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Three new species of Chromis (Teleostei, Pomacentridae) from mesophotic coral ecosystems of the Philippines
﻿Three new species of Chromis (Perciformes, Pomacentridae) from the Philippines, collected between 75–150 m depth, are described by a combination of morphological features and their coloration. Chromis gunting sp. n. was found in Batangas and Oriental Mindoro, and differs from its congeners in body depth (2.1–2.2 in SL), and color of adults, light brown, with a silver area on the anterior end and a bilateral black margin along the exterior side of the tail. It is most similar to C. scotochiloptera, with a 5.3% genetic divergence in COI. Chromis hangganan sp. n. was found around Lubang Island. Body depth (1.9–2.0 in SL) and adult coloration (yellowish with dark black outer margins on dorsal and anal fins) also separate this species from its congeners. It is most similar to C. pembae, with a 2.5% genetic divergence. Chromis bowesi sp. n. was found in Batangas, and also differs from its congeners by the combination of body depth (1.5–1.6 in SL), and color of adults (brownish grey in the dorsal side to whitish on the ventral side, with alternating dark and light stripes in the sides of body). It is most similar to C. earina, with a 3.6% genetic divergence in COI.
["Coral triangle"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

New species of leaf-mining Phyllonorycter (Lepidoptera Gracillariidae) from Siberia feeding on Caragana (Fabaceae)
During a DNA barcoding campaign of leaf-mining Gracillariidae from the Asian part of Russia, a new species of Phyllonorycter Hübner, feeding on the Siberian pea shrub, Caragana arborescens Lam. (Fabaceae) was discovered in Siberia. Here, this taxon is described as Phyllonorycter ivani sp. n. Among Fabaceae-feeding Phyllonorycter, so far only P. caraganella (Ermolaev) has been known to develop on Caragana. Phyllonorycter ivani and P. caraganella show a large divergence in morphology (external and male genitalia) and barcode region of the mtDNA-COI gene (8.6%). They feed on different host plants species and have different ranges in Russia. We show that DNA barcode data weakly supports the Fabaceae-feeding species groups. In addition, we show that morphologically (strongly) and genetically (weakly), P. ivani has affinity to the haasi species group, a West Palearctic group with asymmetrical male genitalia.
["Leaf-mining micromoths"]

Four new species of the trapdoor spider genus Conothele Thorell, 1878 (Araneae, Halonoproctidae) from China
Herein four species of the trapdoor spider genus Conothele Thorell, 1878 collected from China are described as new to science based on the female genital morphology: C. baisha sp. n. (Hainan Province), C. baoting sp. n. (Hainan Province), C. linzhi sp. n. (Tibet), and C. jinggangshan sp. n. (Jiangxi Province). For two Hainan species, C. baisha sp. n. and C. baoting sp. n., between which it is difficult to distinguish solely based on female genital morphology, additional diagnoses derived from species-specific nucleotide substitution information and genetic distances using the mitochondrial gene, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I are provided.

Pentaneurella katterjokki Fittkau & Murray (Chironomidae, Tanypodinae): redescription and phylogenetic position
The monotypic genus Pentaneurella Fittkau & Murray was originally described based on larvae, pupal exuviae and pharate males. The latter prevented the observation of key features, such as wing dimensions, abdominal coloration pattern, and hypopygial apodemes (sternapodeme and phallapodeme), and the description of the adult male was considered incomplete by the authors. Herein, the adult female of Pentaneurella katterjokki is described for the first time, and the adult male, pupa and larva are redescribed and figured based on specimens recently collected in Germany and Norway. We also discuss the phylogenetic position of Pentaneurella.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of the millipede genus Cryptocorypha Attems, 1907, from northern Thailand (Polydesmida, Pyrgodesmidae)
The millipede family Pyrgodesmidae and the genus Cryptocorypha are recorded from Thailand for the first time, being represented there by C. enghoffi sp. n. The new species is distinguished by the evident apicodorsal trichostele on the last tibia of both sexes and the gonopodal telopodite being particularly complex, quadripartite, consisting of the longest, mesal, suberect solenomere branch; a slightly shorter, similarly slender, acuminate endomere branch tightly appressed to the solenomere; a somewhat shorter, caudal, strongly curved, armed exomere process; and a very distinct, low, lateral, sac-shaped velum at their base. This situation strongly resembles the one observed in the geographically closest C. perplexa Golovatch & VandenSpiegel, 2015, from Myanmar, but the shapes and armament of all outgrowths of the gonopodal telopodite are clearly different. A key to all three Cryptocorypha pecies known from Indochina or Myanmar and an updated checklist of all 21 species of the genus are provided.
["Chiang Mai"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

On the clawed lobsters of the genus Nephropsis Wood-Mason, 1872 recently collected from deep-sea cruises off Taiwan and the South China Sea (Crustacea, Decapoda, Nephropidae)
Recent deep-sea cruises using Taiwanese research vessels off Taiwan and in the South China Sea yielded seven species of the clawed lobster genus Nephropsis Wood-Mason, 1872. Four species are new records for Taiwan (Nephropsis acanthura Macpherson, 1990, N. holthuisi Macpherson, 1993, N. serrata Macpherson, 1993, and N. suhmi Bate, 1888) and three species are new records of Dongsha (under the jurisdiction of Taiwan) in the South China Sea (N. ensirostris Alcock, 1901, N. stewarti Wood-Mason, 1872, and N. suhmi). Altogether, five and four species of this genus are now known from Taiwan and Dongsha, respectively. The diagnostic characters and coloration are illustrated for most, if not all, of these species.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

First description of the male of Barylestis saaristoi Jäger, 2008 (Araneae, Sparassidae) from China
The male of Barylestis saaristoi Jäger, 2008 is described for the first time from Menglun Town, Yunnan Province, China. This is the first record of this genus from China. An illustrated morphological description of this species is given.

Two new species in the genus Kuvera Distant, 1906 (Hemiptera, Cixiidae, Cixiinae) from China
Two new species (Kuvera huoditangensis sp. n. and Kuvera longwangshanensis sp. n.) in the family Cixiidae from China are described and illustrated. The generic characteristics are redefined. A checklist to all species of Kuvera worldwide and an identification key to the Chinese species are provided. A map of the geographic distribution of Kuvera species is also provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

DNA barcoding of British mosquitoes (Diptera, Culicidae) to support species identification, discovery of cryptic genetic diversity and monitoring invasive species
Correct mosquito species identification is essential for mosquito and disease control programs. However, this is complicated by the difficulties in morphologically identifying some mosquito species. In this study, variation of a partial sequence of the cytochrome c oxidase unit I (COI) gene was used for the molecular identification of British mosquito species and to facilitate the discovery of cryptic diversity, and monitoring invasive species. Three DNA extraction methods were compared to obtain DNA barcodes from adult specimens. In total, we analyzed 42 species belonging to the genera Aedes Meigen, 1818 (21 species), Anopheles Meigen, 1818 (7 species), Coquillettidia Theobald, 1904 (1 species), Culex Linnaeus, 1758 (6 species), Culiseta Felt, 1904 (7 species), and Orthopodomyia Theobald, 1904 (1 species). Intraspecific genetic divergence ranged from 0% to 5.4%, while higher interspecific divergences were identified between Aedes geminus Peus, 1971/Culiseta litorea (Shute, 1928) (24.6%) and Ae. geminus/An. plumbeus Stephens, 1828 (22.5%). Taxonomic discrepancy was shown between An. daciae Linton, Nicolescu & Harbach, 2004 and An. messeae Falleroni, 1828 indicating the poor resolution of the COI DNA barcoding region in separating these taxa. Other species such as Ae. cantans (Meigen, 1818)/Ae. annulipes (Meigen, 1830) showed similar discrepancies indicating some limitation of this genetic marker to identify certain mosquito species. The combination of morphology and DNA barcoding is an effective approach for the identification of British mosquitoes, for invasive mosquitoes posing a threat to the UK, and for the detection of hidden diversity within species groups.
["DNA extraction methods"]
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Malaria Research and Control", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

A new species and a new record of the Southeast Asian millipede genus Antheromorpha Jeekel, 1968 (Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae) from Vietnam
Antheromorpha nguyeni sp. n. is described and illustrated from Kon Ka Kinh National Park, southern Vietnam. The new species is distinguished by a peculiar colour pattern showing a uniformly black-brown body contrasting with yellow-brown paraterga and epiproct, as well as in the pointed gonopodal process being unusually short, only approximately half as long as the solenophore. In addition, an identification key to all 13 presently known species, all mapped, is given. A new record of A. festiva is provided from southern Vietnam.
["Antheromorpha"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

A new interstitial species of the genus Caecianiropsis Menzies & Pettit, 1956 (Isopoda, Asellota) from Korea
A new interstitial species, Caecianiropsis goseongensis sp. n. is described from littoral off the east coast of Korea (Sea of Japan). The species can be distinguished from its congeners by the number of antennular articles, shape of the male appendix masculina, setation of pereopods, and length ratio of the uropodal rami. To aid species identification a taxonomic key to all species of Caecianiropsis Menzies & Pettit, 1956 is also provided as well as a partial 16S mitochondrial ribosome RNA of the new species, which is the first genetic information for the genus.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

The Trichopterygini (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) of Austral South America: description of new species from Chile
Four new species belonging to the genera Hoplosauris Butler, Butleriana Parra, Warrenaria Parra, and Fueguina Parra from south-central Chile are described. The species are H. morenoi Ramos-González & Parra, sp. n., B. phoenix Ramos-González & Parra, sp. n., W. onca Ramos-González & Parra, sp. n., and F. araucana Ramos-González & Parra, sp. n. The genus Aloba Warren is reassigned to tribe Trichopterygini and A. carolinae Ramos-González & Parra, sp. n. is described. Comparative diagnosis for all new species are provided, and illustrations of genitalia and the wing venation of the males for all new described species are given.
["Andean region"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Checklist of ascidians (Chordata, Tunicata) from the southern Gulf of Mexico
This study is the first inventory of ascidians from shallow waters (0–25 m) of coastal and reef habitats in the southern Gulf of Mexico where ascidian diversity is poorly known. Sampled environments in 14 locations (38 sites) with 134 samples collected from 2015 to 2017 included coral reefs, coastal lagoons, mangroves, seagrass, ports, and artificial platforms. The 31 identified species comprise 19 genera and 13 families. Ten species are newly reported in the Gulf of Mexico: Ascidia panamensis Bonnet & Rocha, 2011; Ecteinascidia styeloides (Traustedt, 1882); Cystodytes roseolus Hartmeyer, 1912; Eudistoma aff. amanitum Paiva & Rocha, 2018; Eudistoma recifense Millar, 1977; Euherdmania fasciculata Monniot, 1983; Euherdmania aff. vitrea Millar, 1961; Polycarpa cartilaginea (Sluiter, 1885); Botrylloides magnicoecum (Hartmeyer, 1912) and Didemnum granulatum Tokioka, 1954. Two new species will be described separately (Clavelina sp. and Pyura sp.). This study provides the first records for 26 species ascidians for the region as well as describes increased distributions of ten Atlantic species. Thus, our data provide a starting point for future ecological, experimental and taxonomic studies of ascidians of the Gulf of Mexico.
["Ascidiacea"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new species of terrestrial frog Pristimantis (Strabomantidae) from the upper basin of the Pastaza River, Ecuador
We describe a new species of Pristimantis from the montane forest of the Río Zuñag Ecological Reserve, upper basin of the Pastaza River, Ecuador. Pristimantis mallii sp. n. is characterized by a snout-vent length of 11.6–21.3 mm in adult males (n = 12), 22.6–34.3 mm in adult females (n = 8), and is compared morphologically and genetically with Pristimantis miktos and with other relevant species of Pristimantis. The new species is characterized by having skin on dorsum and flanks shagreen, distinctive scapular folds, snout broadly rounded in dorsal view, upper eyelid bearing one or two subconical tubercles and some rounded tubercles, dorsum and flanks light brown to brown, with irregular dark brown marks bounded by dirty cream and groin with irregular yellowish marks.
["Montane forest"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New record of an estuarine polychaete, Neanthes glandicincta (Annelida, Nereididae) on the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia
An estuarine species of Nereididae (Annelida), Neanthes glandicincta (Southern, 1921) has been newly recorded on the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia located in the South China Sea based on 23 specimens collected from three estuaries (Tumpat, Kelantan Delta, Kelantan; Setiu Lagoon, Terengganu; Kuala Ibai, Terengganu). The morphological characteristics of the Malaysian specimens agree well with those of the previous original description and the redescription of N. glandicincta based on Indian, Myanmar and Singapore specimens. The number of paragnaths in all groups on the proboscis of our Malaysian specimens is within the range of the intraspecific variation of N. glandicincta as shown in the previous descriptions. An identification key to species of the Neanthes glandicincta species complex, which includes two morphologically similar species, is provided.
["Kuala Ibai"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Checklist of the Sarcophagidae (Diptera) of Croatia, with new records from Croatia and other Mediterranean countries
An updated checklist of Croatian flesh flies is presented based on the literature, on material collected from 2004 to 2017, and on specimens in museum collections. The checklist comprises 22 genera and 148 species (two left unnamed), 105 of which are represented by new Croatian records. Twenty-five species are recorded from Croatia with certainty for the first time: Amobia pelopei (Rondani, 1859), Apodacra seriemaculata Macquart, 1854, Craticulina tabaniformis (Fabricius, 1805), Macronychia striginervis (Zetterstedt, 1838), Metopia campestris (Fallén, 1810), Miltogramma brevipila Villeneuve, 1911, Miltogramma iberica Villeneuve, 1912, Miltogramma oestracea (Fallén, 1820), Miltogramma punctata Meigen, 1824, Oebalia cylindrica (Fallén, 1810), Phylloteles pictipennis Loew, 1844, Senotainia conica (Fallén, 1810), Taxigramma hilarella (Zetterstedt, 1844), Taxigramma stictica (Meigen, 1830), Agria monachae (Kramer, 1908), Nyctia lugubris (Macquart, 1843), Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) aurulenta Rohdendorf, 1937, Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) batilligera Séguy, 1941, Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) plumicornis (Zetterstedt, 1859), Sarcophaga (Helicophagella) okaliana (Lehrer, 1975), Sarcophaga (Heteronychia) amita Rondani, 1860, Sarcophaga (Heteronychia) ancilla Rondani, 1865, Sarcophaga (Heteronychia) pseudobenaci (Baranov, 1942), Sarcophaga (Myorhina) lunigera Böttcher, 1914 and Sarcophaga (Stackelbergeola) mehadiensis Böttcher, 1912. Taxigramma hilarella, Nyctia lugubris, Agria monachae, Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) aurulenta and Sarcophaga (Heteronychia) amita are recorded from Southeast Europe with certainty for the first time. The species Sarcophaga (Sarcophaga) hennigi Lehrer, 1978 is omitted from the list, as previous records from Croatia are shown to be based on an erroneous synonymy with Sarcophaga novaki Baranov, 1941 (= Sarcophaga (Sarcophaga) croatica Baranov, 1941). Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) rufipes (Macquart, 1839) could not be confirmed from Croatia and is not included in the checklist. Three new synonymies are proposed: Golania Lehrer, 2000 = Thyrsocnema Enderlein, 1928, syn. nov., Parasarcophaga (Liosarcophaga) kovatschevitchi Strukan, 1970 = Sarcophaga (Liosarcophaga) marshalli Parker, 1923, syn. nov., and Sarcophaga subvicina ssp. novaki Baranov, 1941 = Sarcophaga (Sarcophaga) croatica Baranov, 1941, syn. nov. As part of an effort to update the European distributions of all Croatian species, the following new national and regional records are also provided: Miltogramma brevipila, Miltogramma taeniata Meigen, 1824 and Sarcophaga (Heteronychia) pandellei (Rohdendorf, 1937) new to Greece; Sarcophaga (Liosarcophaga) harpax Pandellé, 1896 and Sarcophaga (Sarcophaga) croatica new to Italy (respectively mainland and mainland and Sicily); Miltogramma iberica new to Bulgaria and Sardinia; Pterella convergens (Pandellé, 1895) new to mainland Italy and Sicily; Nyctia lugubris new to mainland Italy and Sardinia; Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) litoralis (Villeneuve, 1911) new to Sardinia and thus confirmed for Italy; Apodacra seriemaculata, Macronychia striginervis, Protomiltogramma fasciata (Meigen, 1824) and Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) ungulata (Pandellé, 1896) new to Sardinia and Sicily; Macronychia dolini Verves & Khrokalo, 2006, Macronychia polyodon (Meigen, 1824), Metopia argyrocephala (Meigen, 1824), Senotainia albifrons (Rondani, 1859), Taxigramma multipunctata (Rondani, 1859), Taxigramma stictica, Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) unicolor (Villeneuve, 1912) and Sarcophaga (Helicophagella) agnata Rondani, 1860 new to Sardinia; Metopodia pilicornis (Pandellé, 1895), Miltogramma oestracea, Miltogramma rutilans Meigen, 1824, Nyctia halterata (Panzer, 1798), Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) lapidosa Pape, 1994 and Blaesoxipha (Blaesoxipha) plumicornis new to Sicily.

Four notable additions to the South African echinoid fauna (Echinodermata, Echinoidea)
Although a comprehensive guide to the South African echinoid fauna was published as recently as 2017, four notable additions to the fauna have emerged since that time and are reported on here. The first South African records for Histocidaris purpurata (Thomson, 1872), Echinothrix diadema (Linnaeus, 1758), Microcyphus rousseaui L. Agassiz, in Agassiz and Desor 1846, and Pseudoboletia maculata Troschel, 1869 are presented. All four species have previously been recorded from the Atlantic and/or Indian Oceans and their ranges are thus extended southwards here. These additions increase the total number of echinoid species known from South Africa to 74.
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Review of the genus Strumigenys (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) in Hong Kong with the description of three new species and the addition of five native and four introduced species records
The species of the ant genus Strumigenys Smith, 1860 found in Hong Kong are reviewed based on new sampling efforts performed over the past five years (2014–2018). Prior to this, 12 Strumigenys species had been recorded from Hong Kong, all confirmed here. Moreover, we add to this list three newly described species: S. hirsuta sp. n., S. lantaui sp. n., and S. nathistorisoc sp. n., and describe for the first time the worker caste of S. formosa Terayama, Lin & Wu, 1995. We report new records for nine additional species, bringing the total number of species to 24, including four newly recorded species (S. hexamera Brown, 1958, S. membranifera Emery, 1869, S. nepalensis Baroni Urbani and De Andrade, 1994, and S. rogeri Emery, 1890) which are considered to be introduced to Hong Kong. A global review of the introduced Strumigenys species is presented. The taxonomic validity of S. feae and S. formosensis is discussed in light of new specimen measurements. New ecological information on the swarming periods of 11 species is presented on the basis of year-long sampling of aerial insects. Finally, the importance of our results within Southeast Asia and the need for future sampling efforts in the region is discussed.
["Ant diversity"]

A new species of the genus Arrup from a limestone cave in Akiyoshi-dai, Western Japan (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha, Mecistocephalidae)
Arrup akiyoshiensis Tsukamoto & Shimano, sp. n. is described from a limestone cave, Kagekiyo-ana, in Akiyoshi-dai, one of the largest karst regions in Japan, Yamaguchi prefecture. It is distinguishable from 14 valid named congeners by some unique characteristics including entire areolation on the cephalic pleurite, elongation of distal part of female gonopod, and a tubercle on forcipular segment II. In addition, the 18S rRNA gene sequences of A. akiyoshiensis Tsukamoto & Shimano, sp. n. and A. ishiianus, one of the most morphologically similar species, differed by four bp out of 1821 bp. The fact that only troglobionts and troglophilic species are found in the collection site suggests that this new species might be a cave-dweller.
["Arrupinae"]

The first Paratropididae (Araneae, Mygalomorphae) from Colombia: new genus, species and records
The family of mygalomorph spiders Paratropididae Simon, 1889 is here reported for the first time for Colombia, where it is represented by three genera (Anisaspis, Paratropis, Stormtropis gen. n.) and eight species. One genus, Stormtropis, and six species constitute new taxa that are here diagnosed, described and illustrated. The geographical distribution of Paratropis papilligera FO Pickard-Cambridge, 1896 and Paratropis elicioi Dupérré, 2015 are also redescribed and expanded on the basis of new material examined. The diagnosis of the subfamily Paratropidinae, Paratropis Simon, 1889 and Anisaspis Simon, 1892 are emended including the variations of the new species. Likewise, a geographic distribution map for the entire family and a taxonomic key for the males of Paratropidinae are included. Other biogeographic, morphological, and taxonomic aspects are discussed.
["Andean Region"]

A new species of the ant genus Recurvidris Bolton, 1992 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) from Thailand
Recurvidris Bolton, 1992 is a small myrmicine genus of the tribe Crematogastrini. Until now, eleven species are known in this genus from Asia. A new species, Recurvidris lekakuli sp. n., is here described from Thailand based on the worker caste. The type series of the new species was collected from leaf litter in a dry evergreen forest. A key to the Asian species of Recurvidris based on the worker caste is provided.
["Formicidae"]

Molecular and morphological characterisation of Longidorus polyae sp. n. and L. pisi Edward, Misra & Singh, 1964 (Dorylaimida, Longidoridae) from Bulgaria
Longidorus polyae sp. n., a bisexual nematode species found in the rhizosphere of pear tree (Pyrus communis L.), is described and characterised using an integrative approach. The new species has a female body length of 6.8–9.1 mm; a comparatively long odontostyle (114.0–127.5 μm); a narrow lip region (14.0–15.5 μm), anteriorly flattened and almost continuous with the body profile; pocket-like amphidial pouches long, deeply bilobed, and slightly asymmetrical, a guide ring at 37–42 μm from the anterior end; normal arrangement of pharyngeal glands; and a short bluntly rounded to hemispherical tail. Four juvenile stages identified: the first stage with a digitate tail, and the second and subsequent stages with a bluntly rounded tail. Males have one adcloacal pair and a row of 10 or 11 single ventromedian supplements; spicules 71.0–74.5 μm long. Based on morphometric data, the new species belongs to a group of species spread over Europe (L. arthensis, L. silvae, L. uroshis,), Iran (L. kheirii), and Syria (L. pauli), which share common characters such as amphidial fovea, lip region and tail shapes, similar odontostyle and body length, and similar first-stage juvenile tail shape. Codes for identifying the new species are A5, B2, C34, D3, E3, F45, G12, H1, I2, J1, K7. The phylogenetic analysis based on D2-D3 expansion domains of the rRNA gene revealed that the new species has the closest relationships with L. athesinus from Italy and three unidentified Longidorus spp. from USA (Longidorus sp. 1, Longidorus sp. 2, and Longidorus sp. 6). New morphometric and molecular data (18S rRNA gene, ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 regions and D2-D3 28S rRNA gene sequences) for three populations of L. pisi from Bulgaria were obtained and variations between populations are discussed.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Calixomeria, a new genus of Sceliotrachelinae (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae) from Australia
Calixomeria lasallei gen. n. et sp. n. is described as a new genus and species of Sceliotrachelinae. Calixomeria most closely resembles genera of the Aphanomerus-cluster but possesses several characters that readily separate it from other sceliotracheline genera. The key of Masner and Huggert (1989) is modified to accommodate Calixomeria, and the relationship of the genus to other members of the subfamily is discussed.
["Parasitoid"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Diversity and conservation of amphibians and reptiles of a protected and heavily disturbed forest of central Mexico
The high loss rate of forest ecosystem by deforestation in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt is one of the principal ecological problems of central Mexico, even in natural protected areas. We compiled a checklist and determined β-diversity indexes of amphibians and reptiles of the highly disturbed protected area, La Malinche National Park (LMNP) in Mexico, to determine the principal habitats for herpetofaunal conservation. After our extensive eight-year field sampling, we documented 28 species (nine amphibians and 19 reptiles), representing 11 families and 18 genera; four of these species are new records for LMNP. Of the species, 89% are endemic to Mexico. The IUCN Red List considers 22 species as Least Concern, one as Near Threatened, and four as Vulnerable. Meanwhile, the Environmental Viability Scores categorize three species as low vulnerability, 15 as medium, and 10 as high. According to the Mexican list of protected species, eight species are under Special Protection and nine are considered Vulnerable. The dissimilarity index between habitat types (βsør) in both groups is high, principally due to the environmental gradient generated by the altitudinal range. Abies and Pine forest are high diversity areas for amphibians and reptiles, respectively, and must be considered for special protection. LMNP hosts more than 60% of the herpetofauna of Tlaxcala and is the principal “conservation island” for this state. Therefore, based on the percentage of state species represented, endemism and the current social and ecological problems, additional efforts that involve the local communities to protect the biodiversity of this National Park are necessary.
["Herpetofauna"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

First record of the genus Fagineura Vikberg & Zinovjev (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae) with descriptions of two new species from China
Fagineura Vikberg & Zinovjev, 2000 is recorded from China for the first time. Two species of Fagineura are described as new, F. flactoserrula sp. n. and F. xanthosoma sp. n. A key to the species of Fagineura worldwide is provided, now including four species. In addition, a simple phylogenetic analysis of Fagineura species is provided, based on sequences of the COI and NaK genes.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

First Mexican species of the genus Cosberella (Collembola, Hypogastruridae)
A new species of Cosberella is described and illustrated from a temperate forest of Citlaltépetl formation, Veracruz State. It is characterized by the following combination of characters: Th I with 2 + 2 dorsal setae; 2 + 2 axial setae on Th II–III; two capitate tenent hairs on each leg; unguiculus half the length of unguis; unguis with tooth; six dental setae and Abd VI without anal spines. A key for the species of the genus is included.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Lithobius (Ezembius) ternidentatus sp. n. (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae), a new species from China
Lithobius (Ezembius) ternidentatus sp. n. (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae), recently discovered from Wuyuezhai Mountain, Lingshou County, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, China, is described. Morphologically it resembles L. (E.) multispinipes Pei, Lu, Liu, Hou, Ma & Zapparoli, 2016, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by having a different sized Tömösváry’s organ, different numbers of ocelli, obvious differences in ventral plectrotaxy of legs 14, and tarsal articulation ill-defined on legs 1–13, well-defined on legs 14–15. The main morphological characters of the known Chinese species of the subgenus Ezembius Chamberlin, 1919 based on adult specimens is presented.

A new unique leafhopper genus of Erythroneurini from Thailand, with the description of one new species (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae)
A new genus of the leafhopper tribe Erythroneurini (Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae) from Thailand, Undulivena gen. n., and a new species Undulivena thaiensis sp. n., are described and illustrated. The new genus exhibits a unique feature of the forewing venation with CuA vein strongly sinuate.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

One hundred and three new species of Trigonopterus weevils from Sulawesi
The genus Trigonopterus Fauvel, 1862 is highly diverse in Melanesia, the Moluccas, and the Sunda Islands. Only one species, Trigonopterus fulvicornis (Pascoe, 1885) was so far recorded from Sulawesi. Based on focused field-work the fauna from Sulawesi and nearby islands is here revised. We redescribe T. allotopus Riedel newly recorded for Sulawesi and describe an additional 103 new species: T. abnormis sp. n., T. adspersus sp. n., T. ambangensis sp. n., T. ampanensis sp. n., T. analis sp. n., T. arachnobas sp. n., T. armipes sp. n., T. artemis sp. n., T. asterix sp. n., T. barbipes sp. n., T. bonthainensis sp. n., T. carinirostris sp. n., T. castaneipennis sp. n., T. celebensis sp. n., T. cirripes sp. n., T. collaris sp. n., T. costatulus sp. n., T. curvipes sp. n., T. crenulatus sp. n., T. cricki sp. n., T. darwini sp. n., T. ejaculatorius sp. n., T. fuscipes sp. n., T. gracilipes sp. n., T. heberti sp. n., T. hirsutus sp. n., T. humilis sp. n., T. hypocrita sp. n., T. idefix sp. n., T. impressicollis sp. n., T. incendium sp. n., T. incognitus sp. n., T. indigenus sp. n., T. inhonestus sp. n., T. invalidus sp. n., T. jasminae sp. n., T. klabatensis sp. n., T. kolakensis sp. n., T. kotamobagensis sp. n., T. laevigatus sp. n., T. lampros sp. n., T. latipennis sp. n., T. lompobattangensis sp. n., T. luwukensis sp. n., T. mahawuensis sp. n., T. manadensis sp. n., T. mangkutanensis sp. n., T. matalibaruensis sp. n., T. mesai sp. n., T. minahassae sp. n., T. moatensis sp. n., T. modoindingensis sp. n., T. nanus sp. n., T. nitidulus sp. n., T. obelix sp. n., T. ovalipunctatus sp. n., T. ovatulus sp. n., T. pagaranganensis sp. n., T. palopensis sp. n., T. paracollaris sp. n., T. pauper sp. n., T. pendolensis sp. n., T. posoensis sp. n., T. prismae sp. n., T. procurtus sp. n., T. pseudallotopus sp. n., T. pseudanalis, sp. n., T. pseudovatulus sp. n., T. pseudovalipunctatus sp. n., T. pseudofulvicornis sp. n., T. pseudomanadensis sp. n., T. pseudosimulans sp. n., T. pumilus sp. n., T. rantepao sp. n., T. reticulatus sp. n., T. rhombiformis sp. n., T. rotundatus sp. n., T. rotundulus sp. n., T. rudis sp. n., T. rufipes sp. n., T. sampunensis sp. n., T. sampuragensis sp. n., T. satyrus sp. n., T. scabripes sp. n., T. scaphiformis sp. n., T. scitulus sp. n., T. selayarensis sp. n., T. serripes sp. n., T. seticnemis sp. n., T. silvicola sp. n., T. squalidulus sp. n., T. sulawesiensis sp. n., T. suturatus sp. n., T. tatorensis sp. n., T. tenuipes sp. n., T. tomohonensis sp. n., T. toraja sp. n., T. vicinus sp. n., T. viduus sp. n., T. volcanorum sp. n., T. wangiwangiensis sp. n., T. watsoni sp. n., and T. yoda sp. n. All new species are authored by the taxonomist-in-charge, Alexander Riedel.
["Celebes"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Cambaloid millipedes of Tasmania, Australia, with remarks on family-level classification and descriptions of two new genera and four new species (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida)
The Southern Hemisphere cambaloid millipede genera are here assigned or re-assigned to the families Cambalidae Bollman, 1893 and Iulomorphidae Verhoeff, 1924. Tasmanocambala is erected for the three Tasmanian cambalids, T. greeni gen. n., sp. n. (type species), T. tasmanica sp. n. and T. taylori sp. n. The new genus is distinguished by a thin, transverse tab at the tip of the anterior gonopod telopodite with a comb of setae immediately behind the tab. The iulomorphid Talomius weldensis gen. n., sp. n. is described from a single site in Tasmania’s southern mountain district. The new species is unusual among the Australian Iulomorphidae in having a fully-developed, ambulatory leg 1 in the male, and small, compact gonopods.
["Diplopoda"]

The complete mitogenome of Helix pomatia and the basal phylogeny of Helicinae (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Helicidae)
A complete mitochondrial genome of the Roman snail Helix pomatia Linnaeus, 1758 has been sequenced. The length and gene order correspond to that of other available helicid mitogenomes. We used the mitogenome sequence to reappraise the relationships among the four presumed principal groups of the helicid subfamily Helicinae. The results support the idea that the subfamily is divided between two western Palaearctic diversification centres: Iberian Peninsula and western Maghreb in the west, and Anatolia, the Aegean and Caucasus in the east. One group, the tribe Helicini, diversified in the east and the remaining three currently recognised tribes in the west. However, the exact relationships among lineages of the non-Helicini tribes could not be resolved.
["Allognathini"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Two new species of Beraba Martins, 1997 and new geographical records of Eburiini (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
Two new species of Beraba from Colombia (Bolívar) are described: Beraba anae sp. n. and Beraba angeli sp. n. The most recent key to species of the genus was modified to incorporate the new species. The male of Beraba limpida Martins, 1997 is described and illustrated for the first time. Moreover, the geographical distribution of 12 species of Eburiini is expanded.

Mollusc species from the Pontocaspian region – an expert opinion list
Defining and recording the loss of species diversity is a daunting task, especially if identities of species under threat are not fully resolved. An example is the Pontocaspian biota. The mostly endemic invertebrate faunas that evolved in the Black Sea – Caspian Sea – Aral Sea region and live under variable salinity conditions are undergoing strong change, yet within several groups species boundaries are not well established. Collection efforts in the past decade have failed to produce living material of various species groups whose taxonomic status is unclear. This lack of data precludes an integrated taxonomic assessment to clarify species identities and estimate species richness of Pontocaspian biota combining morphological, ecological, genetic, and distribution data. In this paper, we present an expert-working list of Pontocaspian and invasive mollusc species associated to Pontocaspian habitats. This list is based on published and unpublished data on morphology, ecology, anatomy, and molecular biology. It allows us to (1) document Pontocaspian mollusc species, (2) make species richness estimates, and (3) identify and discuss taxonomic uncertainties. The endemic Pontocaspian mollusc species richness is estimated between 55 and 99 species, but there are several groups that may harbour cryptic species. Even though the conservation status of most of the species is not assessed or data deficient, our observations point to deterioration for many of the Pontocaspian species.
["Aral Sea"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Scarabaeinae dung beetles from Ecuador: a catalog, nomenclatural acts, and distribution records
The Ecuadorian territory is divided into four natural regions: the coastal lowlands, the Andean highlands, the Amazon basin, and the Galapagos Islands. Each of these regions has its own ecosystems and specific vegetation. The purpose of this work is to compile an updated catalog of the Scarabaeinae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) of Ecuador that includes distributional data and several nomenclatural acts. We compiled data from 25 scientific collections, with the examination of 13,550 scarabaeines; additionally, 390 bibliographic references were reviewed for their taxonomic histories. The Scarabaeinae fauna from Ecuador is represented by 33 genera and 223 species, with 45 range-restricted species; 27 species were erroneously recorded from the country. The following nomenclatural acts are made: (A) two new status as valid species: Canthon (Glaphyrocanthon) ohausi Balthasar, 1939, stat. n., and Deltochilum (Calhyboma) arrowi Paulian, 1939 stat. n.; (B) one new synonym: Uroxys magnus Balthasar, 1940 = Uroxys latesulcatus Bates, 1891, syn. n.; (C) two revalidated names: Canthidium (Canthidium) orbiculatum (Lucas, 1857) and Dichotomius (Luederwaldtinia) fortepunctatus (Luederwaldt, 1923); and (D) ten lectotypes designated for: Choeridium orbiculatum Lucas, 1857; Choeridium cupreum Blanchard, 1846; Canthidium coerulescens Balthasar, 1939; Canthon angustatus Harold, 1867; Canthon angustatus ohausi Balthasar, 1939; Deltochilum tessellatum Bates, 1870; Pinotus fortepunctatus Luederwaldt, 1923; Pinotus globulus Felsche, 1901; Uroxys latesulcatus Bates, 1891; and Uroxys magnus Balthasar, 1940. The type specimens related to the new nomenclatural acts are illustrated and the maps of the geographical distribution of all species are provided.
["biomas"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Redescription of Arcifrons arcifrontalis Ding & Yang, 1986 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae)
The male of Arcifrons arcifrontalis Ding & Yang, 1986 (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Delphacidae, Tropidocephalini) is redescribed. The female genitalia of the species here, is described and illustrated for the first time. The geographic distribution of the species and images of adult habitus are provided.
["Bamboo planthopper"]

A recent record of Romanogobio antipai (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae, Gobioninae) from the Danube River in Bulgaria
The Danube delta gudgeon, Romanogobio antipai, has been considered to be extinct because there were no reliable recent observations. The latest record confirmed by a voucher specimen dating from 1992. We report here on a specimen of R. antipai collected in 2016 in the Bulgarian sector of the Danube main stream using a bottom drift net at a depth of 8 m. The species determination is supported by morphological examination including discriminant and cluster analyses in comparison with three syntypes and five non-type specimens of R. antipai, samples of the R. kesslerii species complex and R. vladykovi. Romanogobio antipai most clearly differs from both R. kesslerii and R. vladykovi by proportional measurements (caudal peduncle depth, head width, eye horizontal diameter, and interorbital width), from R. kesslerii also by the number of scales above and below the lateral line (6 and 4, respectively, (vs. commonly 5 and 3), and from R. vladykovi, also by 8½ branched dorsal-fin rays (vs. 7½) and the vertebral caudal region longer than the abdominal vertebral region (abdominal+caudal vertebrae 19+21 or 20+21, vs. commonly 20+20 or variants with a caudal region shorter than the abdominal one). The possibility that R. antipai represents a deep-water cophenotype of either R. kesslerii or R. vladykovi, cannot be excluded. The new record demonstrates that R. antipai is still extant in the lower Danube but may be restricted to greater depths in the main channel and the deltaic branches.
["Danube delta gudgeon"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Review and integrative taxonomy of the genus Prosopistoma Latreille, 1833 (Ephemeroptera, Prosopistomatidae) in Thailand, with description of a new species
Three species of the genus Prosopistoma Latreille, 1833 (Prosopistomatidae) are currently reported from Thailand. A new species, Prosopistoma carinatum sp. n., is described here based on specimens from western and southern Thailand. The new species can be easily distinguished from the other members of Prosopistoma by the following combination of characteristics: (i) the presence of two ridged longitudinal lines on each side of its carapace, (ii) antenna 7-segmented, (iii) a strongly convex carapace and (iv) nine pectinate setae on the ventral margin of the fore tibiae. A comparison between the key characteristics of P. carinatum sp. n. and the known Thai species is provided. Results of analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene (658 bp) of three species, as well as the distribution of the Thai species, are also discussed.
["Prosopistoma"]

Successional and seasonal changes of leaf beetles and their indicator value in a fragmented low thorn forest of northeastern Mexico (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae)
Leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae: Coleoptera) constitute a highly diverse family of phytophagous insects with high ecological relevance, due to their host plant specificity and their close association to vegetation variables. Therefore, secondary succession and seasonal changes after loss of vegetal cover will have a significant influence on their community patterns. Accordingly, responses of leaf beetles to such environmental heterogeneity make them a suitable taxon for monitoring disturbance, which is more important for endangered habitats such as the low thorn forests (LTF) in northeastern Mexico. We conducted a study in a LTF fragment in order to assess the effects of secondary succession and seasonality on leaf beetle communities, as well as to quantify the importance of Chrysomelidae as an indicator taxon. Landsat scenes were used for delimiting a successional gradient, in which four succession categories were selected: four years, 17 years, and 31 years since loss of vegetal cover, and conserved areas. Eight plots of 100 m2 were randomly delimited in each category; plots were sampled monthly, using an entomological sweep net, from May 2016 to April 2017. In total, 384 samples were collected by the end of study, from which 6978 specimens, six subfamilies, 57 genera, and 85 species were obtained. Species richness was higher in early succession areas. Abundance declined significantly from early successional to conserved areas, but the conserved areas had the higher diversity. Furthermore, differences in abundance were significant between rainy and dry seasons in areas of four, 17, and 31 years of succession, but not in conserved areas; also, all categories had a similar abundance during the dry season. Intermediate (17 and 31 years) and conserved areas differed in the season of higher diversity. Regarding inventory completeness, it was close to or above 70 % for all comparisons, although it was very low for the 17-year category during the rainy season. Faunistic similarity was higher between intermediate categories. A total of 24 species had a significant indicator value. Effects of succession time and seasonality on leaf beetle communities are here quantified for first time in LTF forests. Influences of environmental heterogeneity and intermediate disturbance are discussed as main drivers of the results obtained. Several leaf beetle species are proposed that could be useful for monitoring succession time and secondary LTF vegetation in northeastern Mexico. However, studies must be replicated at other regions, in order to obtain a better characterization of disturbance influence on leaf beetles.
["Chronosequence"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Review of the genus Vekunta Distant from China, with descriptions of two new species (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Derbidae)
The derbid genus Vekunta Distant, 1906 is reviewed. Two new species, V. bambusana sp. n. and V. pentaprocessusa sp. n., are described and illustrated from the southwest of China to give the genus twenty-nine species in China. A checklist and a key to species of the genus from China are also provided.
["Cenchreini"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

New data of spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) of Cyprus. 1. Dysderidae found in caves
This paper is the first in a series describing the previously unstudied cave spiders from Cyprus. Two new species, Dysderocrates kibrisensis sp. n. and Harpactea kalavachiana sp. n., are described. Detailed morphological descriptions and diagnostic characteristics are presented. This is the first report of the genus Dysderocrates Deeleman-Reinhold & Deeleman, 1988 from Cyprus.
["Biospeleology"]

Two new species and one new regional record of Indonemoura from Guangxi, China, with additions to larval characters (Plecoptera, Nemouridae)
Two new species of Nemouridae of the genus Indonemoura Baumann, 1975, Indonemoura quadrata sp. n. and Indonemoura quadrispina sp. n., are described from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China, on the basis of both sexes and larval stage. The affinities towards related species are discussed, together with generic characters of the larvae. Indonemoura scalprata (Li & Yang, 2007) is recorded from Guangxi for the first time, and its hitherto unknown female is described.

Three new species and a new genus of majoid crabs from the eastern Pacific (Decapoda, Brachyura)
Three new species and a new genus of majoid crabs from deep waters in the eastern Pacific are described and illustrated using morphological and molecular data. A new species of inachoidid, Collodes anartius sp. n. is described from Peru, which resembles C. tenuirostris Rathbun, 1893, in the general appearance of the carapace, but is distinguished by the details of tubercles on the carapace and thoracic sternum, proportions of the pereopod articles, and bathymetric distribution. A new epialtid, Nibilia machala sp. n., is described from Ecuador; Nibilia A Milne-Edwards, 1878 has, until now, been considered to be monotypic, occurring only in the western Atlantic. This new species, from the eastern Pacific, closely resembles N. antilocapra (Stimpson, 1871) in the general morphology, but can be distinguished by the number of spines on the carapace and pereopods. Another epialtid, Solinca aulix gen. n. et sp. n, is establish for material collected from Ecuador and Peru, and can be easily identified from other taxa by the presence of a deep furrow between the very inflated branchial regions.

Hippocampus whitei Bleeker, 1855, a senior synonym of the southern Queensland seahorse H. procerus Kuiter, 2001: molecular and morphological evidence (Teleostei, Syngnathidae)
The taxonomic status of the seahorse Hippocampus procerus Kuiter, 2001, type locality Hervey Bay, QLD, Australia, was re-examined based on its strong morphological similarity and geographical proximity to its congener H. whitei Bleeker, 1855, a species recorded in ten estuaries of New South Wales, Australia. Kuiter (2001) distinguished H. procerus from H. whitei by a taller coronet, marginally lower meristics, and spinier physiognomy. Meristic, morphometric, and key diagnostic morphological character comparisons from vouchered specimens of the two purported species collected from Sydney Harbour, Nelson Bay, Port Stephens, NSW and Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, and Moreton Bay, QLD did not show diagnostic differences to support species-level classification of H. procerus. Furthermore, partial mitochondrial COI sequence data from specimens sampled from known geographical distributions in NSW and Southport, QLD failed to discriminate between populations as a result of shared haplotypes, and revealed an average intraspecific divergence of 0.002%. Hippocampus procerus is hereby placed in the synonymy of H. whitei; a redescription is provided, with a revised record of its range across eastern Australia.
["Acanthomorpha"]
["Aquatic life and conservation", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Coastal Management and Development"]

Two new enchytraeid species from Jeju Island, Korea (Annelida, Clitellata)
The enchytraeid fauna of three areas in Jeju Island (Korea) was studied, and comparative morphological and molecular taxonomic examinations (based on CO1, ITS and H3 sequences) were performed on nine samples collected in 2016. Twenty-two enchytraeid species were recorded and identified. The descriptions of two new species (Achaeta multisacculata sp. n. and Fridericia floriformis sp. n.) are presented in this paper. The main diagnostic features of A. multisacculata sp. n. are: three pairs of pyriform glands per segment, clitellum with two “baguette-like” packages of glands, dorsal blood vessel from VII, secondary pharyngeal glands absent, oesophageal appendages well developed, two pairs of preclitellar nephridia, the reproductive organs (except the spermathecae in V) shifted one segment forward. The main features of F. floriformis sp. n. are that they are large worms, have up to 2–4 chaetae in bundles, strong body wall, thick cuticle, five pairs of preclitellar nephridia, c-type coelomo-mucocytes sometimes with some refractile vesicles, chylus cells in XII–XV, sperm funnels approximately twice as long than wide, spermathecae with long ectal duct without glands, ampullae surrounded distally by about 9–12 sessile diverticula of varying size. Molecular phylogenetic analyses supported the morphological results and confirmed the status of the two new species.
["Achaeta"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

First description of the immature stages of Dasyhelea alula and a redescription of adults from China (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)
The fourth instar larva and pupa of Dasyhelea alula Yu, 2005 are described and illustrated using a Scanning Electron Microscope. The adult male and female of this species are redescribed. Immatures were collected from flooded soil near a pond in Xiaojiawan village, Guizhou province, China and reared in the laboratory. The studied material is deposited in the Insect Collection of Zunyi Medical University.
["Adult"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Plant Virus Research Studies"]

A new species of Pelodiscus from northeastern Indochina (Testudines, Trionychidae)
A new, critically endangered species of softshell turtle, Pelodiscus variegatus sp. n. is described from north-central Vietnam and Hainan Island, China, distinguished by a unique set of genetic and morphological traits from all other congeners (P. axenaria, P. maackii, P. parviformis, P. sinensis, and unnamed genetic lineages). Morphologically, P. variegatus is characterized, among others, by its strong ventral ornamentation in all age classes.
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

A new species of puddle frog from an unexplored mountain in southwestern Ethiopia (Anura, Phrynobatrachidae, Phrynobatrachus)
A new species of Phrynobatrachus is described from the unexplored and isolated Bibita Mountain, southwestern Ethiopia, based on morphological characters and sequences of the mitochondrial rRNA16s. The new species can be distinguished from all its congeners by a small size (SVL = 16.8 ± 0.1 mm for males, 20.3 ± 0.9 mm for females), a slender body with long legs and elongated fingers and toes, a golden coloration, a completely hidden tympanum, and a marked canthus rostralis. The phylogenetic hypothesis based on 16s sequences places the new species as sister to the species group that includes P. natalensis, although it is morphologically more similar to other dwarf Phrynobatrachus species, such as the Ethiopian P. minutus.
["Bibita Mountain"]

Integrative diagnosis, biological observations, and histopathology of the fig cyst nematode Heterodera fici Kirjanova (1954) associated with Ficus carica L. in southern Italy
Morpho-biological notes and histopathology, based on LM and SEM observations, of the fig cyst nematode Heterodera fici isolated from Ficus carica roots, collected in home and public gardens of Apulia region, southern Italy, are described and illustrated. Seventy-five localities throughout the Apulia region were sampled and one-quarter of the sampled localities had fig roots infested with H. fici, with population densities ranging from 44 to 180 cysts/100 ml of soil. All attempts to detect H. fici on ornamental Ficus spp. as well as on imported bonsai in Italy were unsuccessful. Morphometric characters of the Italian population conform to those of the type and re-description populations reported for H. fici. Molecular analysis using ITS, D2–D3 expansion domains of the 28S rRNA, and the partial 18S rRNA sequences of H. fici newly obtained in this study matched well with the corresponding sequences of H. fici present in the GenBank database. Phylogenetic trees confirmed and supported the grouping of H. fici in the Humuli group. Heterodera fici completes its embryogenic development in 14–16 days at 25 °C. Post-invasion development and maturity in the roots of F. carica seedlings is completed in 64–68 days at 25–28 °C with juveniles and adults showing different parasitic habits, being endoparasitic and semi-endoparasitic respectively. The establishment of permanent feeding sites that consist of the formation of large syncytia causes anatomical modification of vascular elements and general disorder in the root stelar structures. Syncytia structures associated with mature females showed different degrees of vacuolisation, numbers of syncytial cells, and contained nuclei and nucleoli which were constantly hypertrophied.
["cyst-forming nematode"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Phytochemistry and biological activities of Ficus species", "Banana Cultivation and Research"]

Coecobrya sirindhornae sp. n., the most highly troglomorphic Collembola in Southeast Asia (Collembola, Entomobryidae)
The most highly troglomorphic Collembola of Southeast Asia, Coecobrya sirindhornae sp. n., is described from a cave in Satun province, Thai Peninsula. It is characterised by its large size, extremely elongated antennae, relatively long legs and furca, reduced macrochaetotaxy, very long and slender claw, pointed tenent hair, four sublobal hairs on outer maxillary lobe, and the absence of eyes and pigmentation. A checklist of Thai Coecobrya species and a key to the troglomorphic species of Thailand are provided. Troglomorphy and conservation of cave habitats in the area are discussed.
["new species"]

Taxonomic study of the genus Aoyuanus Ding & Chen, with descriptions of two new species (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae)
The delphacid planthoppers genus Aoyuanus Ding & Chen, 2001 is reviewed. Two new species, A. spathulus sp. n. and A. varius sp. n., are described and illustrated from China to give the genus three species in total, and the generic characteristics are redefined. A short description and illustrations are also given for A. furcatus. A key to all known species of Aoyuanus based on male genitalia is provided.
["Delphacid"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Revision of the ant-eating spider genus Mallinus Simon, 1893 (Araneae, Zodariidae)
The zodariine spider genus Mallinus Simon, 1893 is redescribed and diagnosed. The type species, M. nitidiventris Simon, 1893 from South Africa, was originally described from subadult specimens. Adults of both sexes of M. nitidiventris are described for the first time, based on recently collected material, and the genus is rediagnosed, redescribed, and its relationships discussed. A single aberrant male specimen from Namibia is here described as a morphospecies, as it is presumed to only be superficially related. A second species, M. defectus Strand, 1906 from Tunisia, is considered a ‘species inquirenda’, as the type specimens could not be traced, but this species is in any case unlikely to be congeneric. The genus is one of 10 cases of a monotypic genus in the Zodariidae. Notes are provided on the biology of M. nitidiventris.
["Arid"]

Three new species of the spider genus Luzonacera Li & Li, 2017 from Philippines (Araneae, Psilodercidae)
Three new species of Luzonacera Li & Li, 2017 are described: L. francescoballarini Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), L. lattuensis Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀) and L. peterjaegeri Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀). Prior to this study, the genus was known by two species, both from Luzon Island, Philippines. So far, the genus and all five species are endemic to Luzon Island and can be found in dry or humid caves in a dark environment.

A revision of the new genus Amiga Nakahara, Willmott & Espeland, gen. n., described for Papilio arnaca Fabricius, 1776 (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)
We here propose a new, monotypic genus, Amiga Nakahara, Willmott & Espeland, gen. n., to harbor a common Neotropical butterfly, described as Papilio arnaca Fabricius, 1776, and hitherto placed in the genus Chloreuptychia Forster, 1964. Recent and ongoing molecular phylogenetic research has shown Chloreuptychia to be polyphyletic, with C. arnaca proving to be unrelated to remaining species and not readily placed in any other described genus. Amiga arnaca gen. n. et comb. n. as treated here is a widely distributed and very common species ranging from southern Mexico to southern Brazil. A neotype is designated for the names Papilio arnaca and its junior synonym, Papilio ebusa Cramer, 1780, resulting in the treatment of the latter name as a junior objective synonym of the former. A lectotype is designated for Euptychia sericeella Bates, 1865, which is treated as a subspecies, Amiga arnaca sericeella (Bates, 1865), comb. n. et stat. n., based on molecular and morphological evidence. We also describe two new taxa, Amiga arnaca adela Nakahara & Espeland, ssp. n. and Amiga arnaca indianacristoi Nakahara & Marín, ssp. n., new subspecies from the western Andes and eastern Central America, and northern Venezuela, respectively.

Seven new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 from Yunnan, China (Araneae, Oonopidae)
Seven new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007: Trilacuna bawan Tong, Zhang & Li, sp. n. (male, female), T. datang Tong, Zhang & Li, sp. n. (male, female), T. fugong Tong, Zhang & Li, sp. n. (male, female), T. gongshan Tong, Zhang & Li, sp. n. (male, female), T. longling Tong, Zhang & Li, sp. n. (male, female), T. wuhe Tong, Zhang & Li, sp. n. (male, female), and T. xinping Tong, Zhang & Li, sp. n. (male, female) are described from Yunnan Province, China.

Redescription of the forgotten New Caledonian weevil genus Callistomorphus Perroud, 1865 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Eugnomini) with descriptions of eight new species
Callistomorphus is one of the “forgotten” genera of the tribe Eugnomini inhabiting rain forest in New Caledonia. In this paper, the genus Callistomorphus and the type species C. farinosus are redescribed. Eight new species, Callistomorphus fundatus sp. n., C. gibbus sp. n., C. malleus sp. n., C. minimus sp. n., C. rutai sp. n., C. szoltysi sp. n., C. torosus sp. n. and C. turbidus sp. n., are described, originating from the main island of New Caledonia. Illustrations and SEM photographs of the external morphology and the male and female terminalia are provided, as well as dorsal habitus colour photographs of the adults, a key to the species, a distribution map, and a discussion of the systematic position of Callistomorphus within the tribe.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

The Siberian centipede species Lithobius proximus Sseliwanoff, 1878 (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha): a new member of the Polish fauna
The centipede Lithobius proximus Sseliwanoff, 1878 is presented for the first time as a new member of the Polish fauna. This species, originally characterized as a widespread Siberian boreal species, seems to possess high plasticity with regards to environmental requirements. Its actual distribution range covers several geographical zones where local conditions have allowed it to survive. The present research in the Wigry National Park, northeast Poland, shows that its distribution extends to the ends of the East European Plain embracing the East Suwałki Lake District, where it occurs almost exclusively in the oak-hornbeam forests: in summer it is one of the three dominant lithobiomorph centipedes inhabiting litter layers.
["Lithobiomorph centipede"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Eumorphus marginatus group in Sulawesi, Indonesia (Coleoptera, Endomychidae)
The species of the Eumorphus marginatus group from Sulawesi are revised. Two previously known species, E. costatus and E. wegneri, are redescribed, and a new species, Eumorphus mirabilis sp. n., is described. A key for identification of these species is provided.

Allodia Winnertz from the Himalayas, with nine species new to science (Diptera, Mycetophilidae)
An extensive collection of fungus gnats from Nepal and Bhutan, deposited at Kyushu University Museum in Japan, has been examined and revealed nine species of Allodia Winnertz, 1864 new to science: Allodia caligata Magnussen, sp. n., A. dibolia Magnussen, sp. n., A. shimai Magnussen, sp. n., A. spathulata Magnussen, sp. n., A. horologia Magnussen, sp. n., A. himalayensis Magnussen, sp. n., A. nepalensis Magnussen, sp. n., A. thudamensis Magnussen, sp. n., and A. scalprata Magnussen, sp. n. All specimens were collected at high altitudes in the central and eastern Himalayas. The species all belong to the subgenus Allodia s. str. and constitute the first records of the genus Allodia in Nepal and Bhutan. Brevicornu nigrofasciatum (Brunetti, 1912) comb. n., originally described from northern India, is transferred from Allodia based on the original description. A key for the identification of the new species is provided.
["Bhutan"]

Description of four new species of armoured spiders (Araneae, Tetrablemmidae) from Sumatra, Indonesia
Four new species of armoured spiders from Sumatra, Indonesia are described. Three species are described in the genus Ablemma Roewer, 1963 and one species in the genus Brignoliella Shear, 1978; Ablemma andriana sp. n. (male), Ablemma contrita sp. n. (male and female), Ablemma kelinci sp. n. (male) and Brignoliella patmae sp. n. (male and female). The female of Ablemma singalang Lehtinen, 1981 is described here for the first time. The first record of Brignoliella for Sumatra is also presented.
["Ablemma"]

Calls of Boana latistriata (Caramaschi & Cruz, 2004) (Amphibia, Anura, Hylidae), an endemic tree frog from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Bioacoustical data are useful for studying amphibians, especially their conservation, taxonomy, and evolution, among others. Of the 12 species of the Boana polytaenia clade, only B. buriti and B. latistriata have no published information about their advertisement calls. We recorded four males of B. latistriata in its type locality at Parque Nacional do Itatiaia, south-eastern Brazil. We used a Roland R26 digital recorder with a Sennheiser ME-67 microphone and analysed the recordings using the Raven Pro 1.5 software. We recorded two different types of calls (call A and call B). Both were composed of one pulsed note and presented a slightly ascending-descending frequency modulation. Call A was more frequent, having durations between 0.042 and 0.093 s with the dominant frequency ranging from 3375.0 to 3937.5 Hz, and was composed of 11 to 21 pulses separated by intervals that were not fully silent. Call B had durations between 0.711 and 1.610 s, with dominant frequency from 3281.2 to 3750.0 Hz, and was composed of 11 to 29 pulses separated by fully silent intervals. Among the B. polytaenia clade, the calls of B. latistriata are more similar to those of B. bandeirantes, B. beckeri, B. polytaenia, and B. aff. beckeri. The calls of B. latistriata differ from these species in its lower dominant frequency. Boana latistriata present a short, single-note call with a lower pulse period (call A) and a long call with higher pulse period (call B), which differ from the other species of the clade. The coefficients of variation for the various bioacoustical attributes were calculated within- and between-males and these have been discussed. We also report a fight event between two males of B. latistriata. This is the first report of a fight in members of the B. polytaenia clade.
["Cophomantini"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Description of Triatoma huehuetenanguensis sp. n., a potential Chagas disease vector (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae)
A new species of the genus Triatoma Laporte, 1832 (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) is described based on specimens collected in the department of Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Triatoma huehuetenanguensis sp. n. is closely related to T. dimidiata (Latreille, 1811), with the following main morphological differences: lighter color; smaller overall size, including head length; and width and length of the pronotum. Natural Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas, 1909) infection, coupled with its presence in domestic habitats, makes this species a potentially important vector of Trypanosoma cruzi in Guatemala.
["Chagas disease vector"]
["Trypanosoma species research and implications", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The identity of the Sri Lankan Amblypharyngodon (Teleostei, Cyprinidae)
Morphological and molecular analyses of specimens representative of the geographic range of the cyprinid genus Amblypharyngodon in Sri Lanka suggest the presence of only a single species in the island, for which the name Amblypharyngodon grandisquamis Jordan & Starks, 1917, is available. Amblypharyngodon grandisquamis is a species endemic to Sri Lanka, distributed across the lowlands of both of the island’s main climatic zones. It is distinguished from all other species of Amblypharyngodon, including the three species recorded from peninsular India (A. mola, A. microlepis, and A. melettinus), by a suite of characters that includes a body depth of 26.9–31.2% of the standard length (SL), 42–56 scales in the lateral series (of which usually 8–16 are pored), 20–24 circumpeduncular scales, 14–17 scale rows between the origins of the dorsal and pelvic fins, a dorsal-fin height of 21.1–27.6% SL, 18–19 caudal vertebrae and an eye diameter of 22.7–30.5% of the head length. Amblypharyngodon grandisquamis differs from A. melettinus and A. mola by uncorrected pairwise genetic distances of more than 9% and 6%, respectively, for the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene.
["Amblypharyngodon"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Descriptions of three new species of the genus Stenodyneriellus Giordani Soika with keys to some related species (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae)
Three new species, namely Stenodyneriellus angustus sp. n. from Thailand, S. profundus sp. n. from Philippines, and S. longitergus sp. n. from Indonesia, are described and illustrated in detail. Stenodyneriellus maculatus Gusenleitner, 2013 is newly recorded from Vietnam. Two keys to some related species are also provided.
["Eumeninae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Amblypygids of Timor-Leste: first records of the order from the country with the description of a remarkable new species of Sarax (Arachnida, Amblypygi, Charinidae)
The whip spider genus Sarax Simon, 1892 is widely distributed throughout Southeast Asia and part of the Indo-Malayan region. The genus is recorded from several Indonesian islands, but no species are known from inside the area that comprises the biogeographical region of Wallacea, despite being recorded from both sides of the area. An expedition to survey the biology of caves in Timor-Leste (formerly East-Timor) discovered populations of amblypygids living underground and including a remarkable new species of Sarax, S. timorensis sp. n., the first Amblypygi known from the island of Timor. The new species is here described bears the unique character state of two pairs of lateral eyes, instead of three or none as in all other living species of Amblypygi, and expands the biogeographic range of the genus. New records of amblypygids are given for two caves in Timor-Leste. A detailed description and a discussion of its distribution and the species characters are also provided.

A new species of Tenuibaetis Kang & Yang, 1994 from Indonesia (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
A new species of Tenuibaetis Kang & Yang is described and illustrated based on larvae collected in Java in 2010, which is the most southeastern report of this genus to date. The total number of Tenuibaetis species is thereby augmented to seven. The morphological differences of all other species are discussed and summarised in tabular form.
["Java"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A revision of Lachnodius Maskell (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Eriococcidae)
Lachnodius Maskell is a genus of three named species that are part of an Australian radiation of felt scale insects that induce galls on Eucalyptus and Corymbia (Myrtaceae). A female’s gall usually consists of an open-top pit in swollen plant tissue. Depending on the species, galls can occur on a host’s leaves, buds, stems, or trunk. Here, we redescribe the named species: L. eucalypti (Maskell), L. hirsutus (Froggatt) and L. lectularius (Maskell), and describe seven new species: L. brimblecombei Beardsley, Gullan & Hardy, sp. n., L. froggatti Beardsley, Gullan & Hardy, sp. n., L. maculosus Beardsley, Gullan & Hardy, sp. n., L. melliodorae Beardsley, Gullan & Hardy, sp. n., L. newi Beardsley, Gullan & Hardy, sp. n., L. parathrix Beardsley, Gullan & Hardy, sp. n., L. sealakeensis Gullan & Hardy, sp. n. Descriptions are based primarily on adult females, but for some species short diagnoses of nymphal stages also are provided. The taxonomic history of Lachnodius is reviewed, with notes on their biology and ecology. A key to species based on the morphology of adult females is provided, and lectotypes are designated for Dactylopius eucalypti Maskell and Lachnodius lectularius Maskell.
["Australian endemics"]
["Research on scale insects", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A collection of crabs (Crustacea, Brachyura) from the southwestern coast of India, with a discussion of the systematic position of Nectopanope Wood-Mason in Wood-Mason & Alcock, 1891 (Euryplacidae)
A report on the brachyuran crabs collected from the southwestern coast of India by the Indian research vessel FORV Sagar Sampada is presented. The material consists of 13 species from three genera and five families, of which four are new records for India: Heteroplax maldivensis (Rathbun, 1902) (Euryplacidae), Cryptopodia collifer Flipse, 1930 (Parthenopidae), Thalamita macrodonta Borradaile, 1903 (Portunidae), and Paraxanthodes cumatodes (MacGilchrist, 1905) (Xanthidae). The cruise also obtained the first known male of Nectopanope rhodobaphes Wood-Mason in Wood-Mason & Alcock, 1891 (type species of Nectopanope Wood-Mason in Wood-Mason & Alcock, 1891), and its characters show that it is in fact a member of the Euryplacidae Stimpson, 1871. The genus had previously been incorrectly classified in the Xanthidae MacLeay, 1838.
["Brachyura"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A survey of parasitoids from Greece with new associations
We report 22 parasitoid species from Greece that have emerged from their hosts belonging to Blattodea, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera, including 12 Braconidae, one Eulophidae, one Evaniidae, seven Ichneumonidae, and one Tachinidae. Nine parasitoids are reported for the first time in Greece, i.e., three Ichneumonidae: Campoplex difformis (Gmelin, 1790), Gelis albipalpus (Thomson, 1884), and Lysibia tenax Townes, 1983; five Braconidae: Charmon cruentatus Haliday, 1833, Dendrosoter protuberans (Nees, 1834), Dolichogenidea longipalpis (Reinhard, 1880), Ecphylus silesiacus (Ratzeburg, 1848), and Spathius curvicaudis Ratzeburg, 1844; and one Eulophidae: Melittobia acasta (Walker, 1839). Nine of the 23 recorded parasitoid-host associations are new. These findings are discussed in relation to the overall related parasitoid-host associations in the target area, as well as the potential of parasitoid use in the biological control of pests.

Neocaridina fonticulata, a new land-locked freshwater shrimp from Hengchun Peninsula, Taiwan (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae)
A new species of land-locked freshwater shrimp, Neocaridina fonticulata sp. n. (Atyidae), is described from Kenting, Hengchun Peninsula, Pingtung County, southern Taiwan. This new species can be distinguished from its congeners by rostrum structure, pereiopods, and male first and second pleopods. The molecular evidence of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) also supports the establishment of a new species. This is the third endemic species of Neocaridina known from Taiwan.
["Neocaridina"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new species of Erythrolamprus from the oceanic island of Tobago (Squamata, Dipsadidae)
Tobago is a small island on the southeast edge of the Caribbean Plate with a continental flora and fauna. Using DNA sequences from Genbank, new sequences, and morphological data from the snakes Erythrolamprus epinephalus, E. melanotus, E. reginae, and E. zweifeli, the species status of specimens of a Tobago snake previously considered to be Erythrolamprus reginae was assessed. Erythrolamprus zweifeli, long considered a subspecies of E. reginae, was found to be a northern Venezuela-Trinidad endemic and the sister to E. reginae. The trans-Andean species E. epinephalus is shown to be non-monophyletic while the Costa Rican lineage of E. epinephalus is weakly supported as the sister to the Tobago population. The Tobago Erythrolamprus is described as a distinct taxon based upon five specimens from four localities in lower montane rainforest. Much of the new species range includes the Main Ridge Forest Reserve of Tobago, the oldest protected forest in the Western Hemisphere. All known locations fall within a 400-ha area, and its total geographic distribution is likely to be less than 4,566 ha. The restricted distribution of this new snake makes it a likely candidate for threatened status. The new species also becomes another biogeographic link between northern Venezuela and Tobago.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Epitomapta simentalae sp. n., a new species of apodous sea cucumber from the Central Eastern Pacific coast of Mexico (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea, Apodida)
Epitomapta simentalae sp. n. occurs in depths of 4–10 m off the Mexican Central Pacific coast. It is distinctive in having twelve tentacles, each tentacle with two or three pairs of digits and four to six sensory cups, lacking papillae or oval bumps and in reaching a maximum length of 50 mm in life.
["Leptosynaptinae"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Revision of the genus Cephalobyrrhus of Japan and Taiwan (Coleoptera, Limnichidae)
Japanese and Taiwanese species of the genus Cephalobyrrhus are revised. A new species, C. amami sp. n., is described from Amami-Ôshima, the Ryukyus, Japan. This species is clearly distinguished from the other known species by the short and pointed median lobe and long phallobase. Two previously known species from Japan and Taiwan, C. latus and C. japonicus, are redescribed.
["Byrrhoidea"]

Taxonomic review of the Asian Trogloneta species (Araneae, Mysmenidae)
Five Trogloneta species from Southwest China and Japan are reviewed that two new combinations and a new synonymy are proposed in the current paper: T. nojimai (Ono, 2010), comb. n. is transferred from Mysmena, T. yunnanense (Song & Zhu, 1994), comb. n. (= T. denticocleari Lin & Li, 2008, syn. n.) is transferred from Pholcomma of the Theridiidae, T. speciosum Lin & Li, 2008, T. uncata Lin & Li, 2013, and T. yuensis Lin & Li, 2013. The female of T. yuensis is described for the first time. An identification key and diagnoses are provided for these species, as well as new photographs or illustrations of the genital organs and habitus of T. yuensis and T. yunnanense.

Gnathopalystes aureolus (He & Hu, 2000): new combination for Pseudopoda aureola (Araneae, Sparassidae), with the first description of the female from Hainan Island, China
The taxonomic status of Pseudopoda aureola (He & Hu, 2000) is revised based on the re-examination of the type specimen and fresh material collected from the type locality. The cheliceral dentition, with a large denticle field between two anterior and three posterior teeth, the male palps with simple RTA arising distally, narrow, not filiform embolus and sheet-like membranous conductor, and the female epigyne with a visible median septum indicate that the species does not belong to Pseudopoda or to the originally assigned genus, Heteropoda. Based on these characters, the species is here transferred to Gnathopalystes. The male is redescribed and the female is described and illustrated for the first time.

Morphological and cytogenetic characteristics of Neobisium (Blothrus) slovacum Gulička, 1977 (Pseudoscorpiones, Neobisiidae), the northernmost troglobitic species of the subgenus Blothrus in Europe
A redescription is provided of the adult, tritonymph and deutonymph life stages of the troglobitic Neobisium (Blothrus) slovacum Gulička, 1977, which is known from Slovakia and Hungary. Material examined included 35 previously deposited museum specimens and 15 newly collected specimens. In addition, the karyotype and distribution of 18S rDNA clusters are described, using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The male karyotype of N. slovacum comprises 69 chromosomes, with a predominance of biarmed chromosomes, and an X0 sex chromosome system. Two pairs of signals for 18S rDNA on biarmed chromosomes (submetacentric and metacentric) of different sizes were identified. The present study provides the first information about the distribution of these clusters in the arachnid order Pseudoscorpiones. The geographic distribution of the species is summarized and mapped. Neobisium slovacum is endemic to the Slovak and Aggtelek Karst area in southern Slovakia and north-western Hungary, where it has been recorded from 16 caves. One of these, Hačavská cave (in Slovakia), is the northernmost locality known for any species of the subgenus Blothrus.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

A taxonomic review of the pericaline ground-beetles in Taiwan, with descriptions of new species (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini)
A taxonomic review of the known Taiwanese taxa of the pericaline Lebiini, this paper includes a key to the genera, keys to species, descriptions, and redescriptions of all species, illustrations, geographic range maps, re-rankings, and new synonymies. In total 34 species are treated, nine of which are described as new. A new genus and new species are as follows: Bellavalentis gen. n., (type species Dolichoctis kuzugamii Shibata, 1967); Amphimenes absensacidus sp. n.; Amphimenes beichatiensis sp. n.; Amphimenes carinacaulis sp. n.; Catascopus (s. str.) asahartisp. n.; Catascopus (s. str.) viridiorchissp. n.; Coptodera (Coptoderina) occultasp. n.; Dolichoctis badiadorsis sp. n.; Dolichoctis dilatata sp. n.; Moctherus obscurabasis sp. n. After close examination of the type material of several species, we were able to determine that Coptoderina chaudoiri anguilipennis (Nakane and Okhura) is a junior synonym of Coptodera (Coptoderina) chaudoiri Andrewes, syn. n. and Coptodera nobilis Jedlička is also a junior synonym of C. chaudoiri, syn. n. Dolichoctis striatus formosanus Habu is a junior synonym of Dolichoctis rotundata (Schmidt-Goebel), syn. n.Dolichoctis (Mochtherus) uenoi Habu is a junior synonym of Mochtherus luctuosus Putzeys, syn. n. Pericalus formosanus Dupuis was recently ranked as a subspecies of Pericalus ornatus formosanus Dupuis. After consideration of the several consistent taxonomic characteristics and also considering its allopatric distribution with all other species of Pericalus, we believe Pericalus formosanus Dupuis to be a valid species, stat. resurr. The monobasic genus Pseudomenarus (type species Pseudomenarus flavomaculatus Shibata, 1964) is established as conspecific with members of the genus Formosiella Jedlička, 1951, comb. n. Species previously recorded from Taiwan that are not present here include: Amphimenes piceolus Bates; Catascopus aequatus Dejean; Catascopus facialis (Wiedemann) Coptodera interrupta Schmidt-Goebel Coptodera flexuosa Schmidt-Goebel and Peripristus ater (Laporte). The pericaline taxa of Taiwan are arranged in 14 genera, five subgenera, and 34 currently known species. Notes on collecting circumstances, habits, and habitat are included when known.

Exploration of phylogeography of Monacha cantiana s.l. continues: the populations of the Apuan Alps (NW Tuscany, Italy) (Eupulmonata, Stylommatophora, Hygromiidae)
Two new lineages CAN-5 and CAN-6 were recognised in four populations of Monacha cantiana (Montagu, 1803) s.l. from the Italian Apuan Alps by joint molecular and morphological analysis. They are different from other M. cantiana lineages known from English, Italian, Austrian and French populations, i.e. CAN-1, CAN-2, CAN-3 and CAN-4, as well as from the other Italian Monacha species used for comparisons (M. parumcincta and M. cartusiana). Although a definite taxonomic and nomenclatural setting seems to be premature, we suggest that the name or names for these new lineages as one or two species should be found among 19th century names (Helix sobara Mabille, 1881, H. ardesa Mabille, 1881, H. apuanica Mabille, 1881, H. carfaniensis De Stefani, 1883 and H. spallanzanii De Stefani, 1884).

New species of Caromiobenella Jeon, Lee & Soh, 2018 (Crustacea, Copepoda, Monstrilloida) from Chuja Island, Korea
Male monstrilloid copepods belonging to the genus Caromiobenella Jeon, Lee & Soh, 2018 were collected from Chuja Island, Jeju, Korea, using a light trap. This paper describes a new species, Caromiobenella ohtsukai sp. n., based on the display of reduced, knob-like fifth legs on the ventral side of the first urosomal somite. A unique combination of male genitalia features and number of caudal setae further confirms its specificity. Molecular analysis based on two partial gene sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) and 28S ribosomal RNA (28S rRNA) also supports the designation of this species by showing a relevant divergence from known congeners. Caromiobenella ohtsukai sp. n. is the ninth member of this genus and also the ninth monstrilloid reported from Korea.
["Caromiobenella ohtsukai sp. n."]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

A new genus of Micromygalinae (Araneae, Microstigmatidae) from Brazil, with transfer of Masteria emboaba Pedroso, Baptista & Bertani, 2015 and description of six new species
The family Microstigmatidae is composed of two subfamilies, Microstigmatinae and Micromygalinae, seven genera and 16 species. Micromygalinae is monotypic, comprising the species Micromygale diblemma Platnick & Forster, 1982 from Panama. A new genus, Tonton is described as a new member of the Micromygalinae. Masteria emboaba Pedroso, Baptista & Bertani, 2015, is transferred to the new genus and six new species from Brazil are described and attributed to Tonton gen. n.: the type species, T. itabirito sp. n., T. queca sp. n., T. matodentro sp. n. and T. sapalo sp. n., all from the state of Minas Gerais; T. ipiau sp. n. from the state of Bahia and T. quiteria sp. n. from the state of Maranhão. Among the cavernicolous species, only T. itabirito sp. n. is considered troglobitic by the total absence of eyes.
["mygalomorph"]

New species of bone-eating worm Osedax from the abyssal South Atlantic Ocean (Annelida, Siboglinidae)
A new species of bone-eating annelid, Osedax braziliensis sp. n., found in a sunken whale carcass at a depth of 4,204 m at the base of the São Paulo Ridge in the South Atlantic Ocean off the Brazilian coast is described. The organism was retrieved using the human-occupied vehicle Shinkai 6500 during the QUELLE 2013 expedition. This is the 26th species of the genus and the first discovery from the South Atlantic Ocean, representing the deepest record of Osedax worldwide to date. This species morphologically resembles Osedax frankpressi but is distinguished by the presence of a yellow bump or patch behind the prostomium and its trunk length. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using three genetic markers (COI, 16S, and 18S) showed that O. braziliensis sp. n. is distinct from all other Osedax worms reported and is a sister species of O. frankpressi.
["Polychaeta"]

A new species of Acartia (Copepoda, Calanoida) from the Philippines, based on morphological and molecular analyses
A new species of Acartia (Odontacartia), A. (O.) edentatasp. n., was collected from Leyte Island in the Philippines. Morphologically, the new species resembles A. (O.) pacifica Steuer, 1915. The female of the new species differs from other species of the A. (O.) erythraea Giesbrecht, 1889 species group in the absence of a pair of sharp spines on the posterior border of the genital double-somite and absence of setules on the lateral margins of urosomites 1–3. Unlike other congeners of the species group, males of the new species lack fine setules along the posterior margin of the prosome. Comparison of the new species with A. (O.) pacifica by pairwise distance data for the 16S (282 bp) gene indicates that these species differ by 20–21%, while the COI gene (636 bp) indicates a difference of 16–17%. The new species seems to be a coastal, occurring in warm waters having a salinity of 33.5.
["Acartia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

The first stygobiont species of Coleoptera from Portugal, with a molecular phylogeny of the Siettitia group of genera (Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Hydroporini, Siettitiina)
Iberoporus pluto sp. n., the first stygobiont beetle from Portugal (Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae), is described from a single female from the cave Soprador do Carvalho (Coimbra). The species is highly troglomorphic, depigmented, blind, and with elongated appendages not adapted for swimming. A molecular phylogeny based on a combination of three mitochondrial and two nuclear genes showed the new species to be sister to I. cermenius Castro & Delgado, 2001 from Córdoba (south of Spain), within the subtribe Siettitiina of the tribe Hydroporini. Both species are included in a clade with Siettitia avenionensis Guignot, 1925 (south of France) and Rhithrodytes agnus Foster, 1992 and R. argaensis Fery & Bilton, 1996 (north of Portugal), in turn sister to the rest of species of genus Rhithrodytes Bameul, 1989, in what is here considered the Siettitia group of genera. We resolve the paraphyly of Rhithrodytes by transferring the two Portuguese species to Iberoporus Castro & Delgado, 2001, I. agnus (Foster, 1992), comb. n. and I. argaensis (Fery & Bilton, 1996), comb. n.
["Diving beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of forest snake of the genus Rhadinaea from Tropical Montane Rainforest in the Sierra Madre del Sur of Oaxaca, Mexico (Squamata, Dipsadidae)
Content of the dipsadid genus Rhadinaea has changed considerably since Myers’ 1974 revision. Three species groups are recognized currently in the genus. Our fieldwork in Oaxaca in June 2018 produced a single specimen of Rhadinaea considered to represent a new taxon. This new species is described from converted Premontane Wet Forest in the municipality of Santa Catarina Juquila in the Sierra Madre del Sur of southern Oaxaca, Mexico. It is most closely related to Rhadinaea laureata, from which it can be distinguished easily by color pattern and scutellation, and represents a species group distinct from the other three occupying the genus.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Three new species of the genus Zodarion (Araneae, Zodariidae) from China
Three new species of the genus Zodarion Walckenaer, 1826, from China, are described as Zodarion apertum sp. n. (♂♀, from Xinjiang), Z. planum sp. n. (♂, from Shaanxi), and Z. ovatum sp. n. (♂♀, from Yunnan).

Analysis of mitochondrial genomes resolves the phylogenetic position of Chinese freshwater mussels (Bivalvia, Unionidae)
The Yangtze River basin is one of the most species-rich regions for freshwater mussels on Earth, but is gravely threatened by anthropogenic activities. However, conservation planning and management of mussel species has been hindered by a number of taxonomic uncertainties. In order to clarify the taxonomic status and phylogenetic position of these species, mitochondrial genomes of four species (Acuticosta chinensis, Schistodesmus lampreyanus, Cuneopsis heudei and Cuneopsis capitatus) were generated and analyzed along with data from 43 other mitogenomes. The complete F-type mitogenomes of A. chinensis, S. lampreyanus, C. heudei, and C. capitatus are 15652 bp, 15855 bp, 15892 bp, and 15844 bp, respectively, and all four F-type mitogenomes have the same pattern of gene arrangement. ML and BI trees based on the mitogenome dataset are completely congruent, and indicate that the included Unionidae belong to three subfamilies with high bootstrap and posterior probabilities, i.e., Unioninae (Aculamprotula, Cuneopsis, Nodularia, and Schistodesmus), Anodontinae (Cristaria, Arconaia, Acuticosta, Lanceolaria, Anemina, and Sinoanodonta), and Gonideinae (Ptychorhynchus, Solenaia, Lamprotula, and Sinohyriopsis). Results also indicate that A. chinensis has affinities with Arconaia lanceolata and Lanceolaria grayii and is a member of the subfamily Anodontinae.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Orthopaedic implants and arthroplasty", "Shoulder and Clavicle Injuries"]

A new species and range extensions for three other species of pebblesnails (Lithoglyphidae, Fluminicola) from the upper Klamath basin, California–Oregon
This is the fifth in a recent series of papers on the poorly known western North American pebblesnail genus Fluminicola (Caenogastropoda, Lithoglyphidae). Herein we clarify the taxonomic status of the currently undescribed pebblesnail fauna in the upper Klamath River drainage (UKL) based on morphologic evidence, and mitochondrial DNA sequence data from 58 UKL collection localities. We describe one new species (F. klamathensis) from eight UKL localities which is differentiated by mtDNA sequences and unique penial morphology, and document range extensions to the UKL for three species from closely proximal drainages (F. fresti, F. modoci, F. multifarius). Fluminicola fresti was found at a single locality along the western edge of upper Klamath Lake. Fluminicola modoci and F. multifarius are widely distributed in the UKL; both species exhibit marked morphologic variation yet are relatively little differentiated genetically in this basin.
["Caenogastropoda"]

Discovery of a new species of the genus Stygepactophanes from a groundwater-fed spring in southern France (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Canthocamptidae)
A new species of the genus Stygepactophanes Moeschler & Rouch, 1984 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Canthocamptidae) is established to accommodate a small canthocamptid population collected from a spring system in the “Parc du Mercantour”, Var catchment, southern France. The population analysed in the present study is defined by a set of morphological characters of the female, namely a very large maxilliped, a rudimentary mandibular palp, P1 with 3-segmented exopod and 2-segmented endopod, a falcate terminal claw of the P1 endopod, dorsal seta of caudal rami inserted on the inner margin, and anal operculum not overreaching the insertion of the caudal rami, thus supporting its assignment into the genus Stygepactophanes. The new species Stygepactophanes occitanus shows marked differences with the nominotypical species of the genus that was originally described by monotypy with the species Stygepactophanes jurassicus Moeschler & Rouch, 1984. The main diagnostic traits of S. jurassicus are the absence of the P5 and a falcate outer terminal claw of P1 endopod. Stygepactophanes jurassicus also shows a reduced armature of the antennal exopod, bearing one seta, 1-segmented P2–P4 endopods, a reduced armature of P2–P4 exopodal segments 3 (3,4,4 armature elements, respectively), P6 bearing only one long seta, a rounded short and smooth anal operculum. Conversely the female of S. occitanus Galassi & Fiers, sp. n. has a well-developed P5, with rudimentary intercoxal sclerite, together with a falcate outer terminal claw of P1 endopod, antennal exopod bearing two elements, P4 endopod 1-segmented versus 2-segmented in P2–P3, P2–P4 exopodal segment 3 with five armature elements, P6 with three setae of different lengths, rounded anal operculum, bearing 3–4 strong spinules. According to our present knowledge, S. occitanus Galassi & Fiers, sp. n. is assigned to the genus Stygepactophanes as the most conservative solution, waiting for the male to be discovered. The genus Stygepactophanes represents a distinct lineage within the harpacticoid family Canthocamptidae that colonised southern European groundwater, the genus being known only from the saturated karst in Switzerland and a fissured saturated aquifer in southern France. Both species of the genus are stygobites and narrow endemics, the nominotypical species being known from the type locality Source de la Doux in Délemont (Switzerland), and S. occitanus Galassi & Fiers, sp. n. described herein from a spring system of the Var catchment (France).
["Groundwater"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Description of two cryptic species of the Amolops ricketti group (Anura, Ranidae) from southeastern China
Two cryptic species, which were previously reported as Amolops ricketti, are revealed on the basis of significant morphological and genetic divergences. Amolops sinensis sp. n. from central Guangdong, northeastern Guangxi and southwestern Hunan can be distinguished by the longitudinal glandular folds on the skin of the shoulders and other character combinations. Amolops yatseni sp. n. from the coastal hills of west Guangdong can be distinguished by the dense tiny round translucent, or white, spines on the dorsal skin of the body, dorsal and dorsolateral skin of the limbs, and other character combinations. The phylogenetic interrelationships of the A. ricketti group have been inferred as (A. wuyiensis + A. ricketti) + (A. yunkaiensis + (A. albispinus + (A. sinensis sp. n. + A. yatseni sp. n.))). This work indicates that the current records of A. ricketti might be a species complex composed of multiple species, and further work is needed to figure out this puzzle.
["Amolops sinensis sp. n."]

The Carabidae (Coleoptera) of Shada Al-A’Ala Nature Reserve, Southwestern Saudi Arabia, with description of a new species of Paussinae
We report the Carabidae collected at the Shada Al-A’Ala Nature Reserve (SANR) in Baha Province in southwestern Saudi Arabia during 2013–2015. In total, 62 carabid species and subspecies representing 39 genera, 17 tribes, and 10 subfamilies were identified, including one new species, Paussus minutulus Nagel & Rasool, sp. n, four new country records, and 24 species that are new provincial records for Baha. The carabid fauna was dominated by the Lebiini with 19 species. A high number of species were rarely collected (34 species) in comparison to the more abundant and common species (9 species). The highest number of species (52 species) was collected during autumn. The carabids of SANR are represented by a large component of Afrotropical faunal elements (28.1%) and smaller numbers of Oriental species (3.5%) and endemic taxa (5.3%). In comparison to Garf Raydah Nature Reserve in Asir Province, also in southwestern Saudi Arabia, SANR had an equal number of carabids sharing 64.5% of the species but with lower number of endemic elements. Our study can serve as a component for implementing a conservation plan for SANR using carabid beetles as sentinel taxa. These research results may support future ecological studies on SNAR carabids.
["Baha"]

Neotermes costaseca: a new termite from the coastal desert of Peru and the redescription of N. chilensis (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae)
The imago and soldier castes of a new Neotermes species, N. costaseca, are described. It is only the third termite species known from the Pacific coastal desert of Peru. Neotermes costaseca sp. n. is compared with the allopatric Neotermes chilensis from the arid central and southern coastal plain of Chile.

Twenty six new species of Leioproctus (Colletellus): Australian Neopasiphaeinae, all but one with two submarginal cells (Hymenoptera, Colletidae, Leioproctus)
Twenty six new species of Australian Leioproctus (subgenus Colletellus) (Hymenoptera, Colletidae) are described: aberrans Leijs, sp. n., alatus Leijs, sp. n., albipilosus Leijs, sp. n., albiscopis Leijs, sp. n., aliceafontanus Leijs, sp. n., altispinosus Leijs, sp. n., aratus Leijs, sp. n., auricorneus Leijs, sp. n., bidentatus Leijs, sp. n., centralis Leijs, sp. n., ciliatus Leijs, sp. n., claviger Leijs, sp. n., consobrinus Leijs, sp. n., constrictus Leijs, sp. n., laciniosus Leijs, sp. n., longivultu Leijs, sp. n., lucidus Leijs, sp. n., nitidifuscus Leijs, sp. n., pectinatus Leijs, sp. n., pilotapilus Leijs, sp. n., quadripinnatus Leijs, sp. n., rubicundus Leijs, sp. n., rubricinctus Leijs, sp. n., similis Leijs, sp. n., splendens Leijs, sp. n., submetallicus Leijs, sp. n. High resolution images of diagnostic characters for all type specimens are included. Identification keys are provided.
["Bush Blitz surveys"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

New species of Idris Förster (Hymenoptera, Platygastroidea) from southeast Asia, parasitoids of the eggs of pholcid spiders (Araneae, Pholcidae)
Four new species of the genus Idris Förster (Hymenoptera: Platygastroidea), reared from the eggs of pholcid spiders (Araneae: Pholcidae) in southeast Asia are described on the basis of external morphology and the barcode region of the mitochondrial COI gene. The new species and their hosts are: I. badius Johnson & Chen, sp. n. (ex Nipisa phyllicola (Deeleman-Reinhold), Panjange hamiguitan Huber), I. balteus Johnson & Chen, sp. n. (ex Panjange camiguin Huber), I. curtus Johnson & Chen, sp. n. (ex Calapnita nunezae Huber, Panjange camiguin Huber, Tissahamia bukittimah (Huber), Uthina luzonica Simon), and I. fusciceps (ex Belisana khaosok Huber).
["Araneomorphae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Prionospio from the coast of the Iberian Peninsula, with the description of two new species (Annelida, Spionidae)
Five species of Prionospio Malmgren, 1867, each with four pairs of branchiae, are studied from coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Two of these species, Prionospio cristaventralis sp. n. and P. parapari sp. n., are new to science, whereas P. caspersi Laubier, 1962, P. fallax Söderström, 1920, and P. ehlersi Fauvel, 1928 have been previously recorded. Prionospio cristaventralis sp. n. is characterized by having ventral crests present on chaetigers XI–XIX, dorsal crests and low crests on chaetigers X–XXXIV, triangular neuropodial postchaetal lamellae with pointed ventral edges on chaetiger II, oval neuropodial lamellae on chaetiger III, digitiform pinnules on the posterior face of the first and fourth pairs, and branchial pairs II and III are triangular. Prionospio parapari sp. n. is characterized by having rounded neuropodial postchaetal lamellae on chaetiger I, digitiform pinnules on the posterior face of the first and fourth pairs, branchial pairs II and III are cirriform, low dorsal crests on chaetigers VIII–IX, and oval neuropodial lamellae with enlarged dorsal edges on chaetiger III. A key is given to all Prionospio species with four pairs of branchiae known from the Iberian Peninsula coastline.
["key to species"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

The freshwater crabs of Macau, with the description of a new species of Nanhaipotamon Bott, 1968 and the redescription of Nanhaipotamon wupingense Cheng, Yang, Zhong & Li, 2003 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Potamidae)
Four species of freshwater crabs from three genera and two families (Cantopotamon hengqinense Huang, Ahyong & Shih, 2017, Nanhaipotamon guangdongense Dai, 1997, Nanhaipotamon macau sp. n., and Somanniathelphusa zanklon Ng & Dudgeon, 1992) are documented from Macau for the first time. One new species, Nanhaipotamon macau sp. n., is described. The large flap on the male first gonopod terminal segment sets it apart from all other known congeners except N. wupingense Cheng, Yang, Zhong & Li, 2003, from Fujian. Characters of the carapace, male first gonopod and size, however, clearly differentiate these two species. Preliminary genetic studies also suggest that the two are not closely related. A neotype is designated for N. wupingense. The taxonomic status of Nanhaipotamon guangdongense is also discussed. Notes on the general biology and conservation status of these crabs are also included.
["Freshwater crabs"]

Onychocamptus Daday, 1903 from Thailand, with descriptions of two new species and two new records (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Laophontidae)
In this paper, two new species of Onychocamptus Daday, 1903 are described from Thailand: Onychocamptus satunensis sp. n. and Onychocamptus tratensis sp. n. The following features mainly distinguish O. satunensis sp. n. from known species: internal sausage-like and internal rounded structures on cephalothorax and one outer seta on the male P5 exopod that is as long as the supporting segment. In contrast, the cephalothorax of O. tratensis sp. n. is smooth but has rounded integumental window-like structures, and the outer seta on the male P5 exopod is two times as long as the supporting segment. Onychocamptus anomalus shows the highest similarity with the two new species, but in contrast to both Thai species, it has only one seta on the exopod of the antenna. In addition, in the present study, two additional species, O. bengalensis and O. vitiospinulosa, are newly recorded in Thailand. Thus, the number of Onychocamptus species recorded in Thailand increases to five species. A key to all known species of this genus in the world is also proposed.
["Laophontidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Notes on the genus Indocnemis Laidlaw, 1917 in Vietnam with description of Indocnemis marijanmatoki sp. n. (Odonata, Zygoptera, Platycnemididae)
Indocnemis marijanmatoki sp. n. (holotype ♂, 12°07'10.0"N, 108°5'51.0"E, 1503 m a.s.l., Hon Ba Nature Reserve, Nha Trang city, Khanh Hoa Province, central Vietnam) is described based on both sexes. The morphological variation of Indocnemis orang (Förster in Laidlaw, 1907) is discussed and its distribution in Vietnam updated.
["Indocnemis"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Historical Geography and Cartography"]

A new species of Lipogramma from deep reefs of Roatan, Honduras (Teleostei, Grammatidae)
A new species of Lipogramma is described from submersible collections at 122–165 m depth off the coast of Roatan, Honduras, in the western Caribbean. The new species is distinguished from all other species in the genus by its bright blue coloration on the head, nape, and dorsal portion of the trunk beneath the spinous dorsal fin, a prominent round black blotch below the origin of the spinous dorsal fin, and a high number of gill rakers. A molecular phylogeny based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes shows that the new species belongs to a clade containing L. levinsoni, L. regia, and L. anabantoides. At Roatan, submersible observations of this and other Lipogramma species indicate clear, interspecific habitat partitioning by depth and substrate.
["systematics"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Phylogeography indicates incomplete genetic divergence among phenotypically differentiated montane forest populations of Atlapetes albinucha (Aves, Passerellidae)
The White-naped Brushfinch (Atlapetes albinucha) comprises up to eight allopatric subspecies mainly identified by the color of the underparts (gray vs. yellow belly). Yellow and gray bellied forms were long considered two different species (A. albinucha and A. gutturalis), but they are presently considered as one polytypic species. Previous studies in the genus Atlapetes have shown that the phylogeny, based on molecular data, is not congruent with characters such as coloration, ecology, or distributional patterns. The phylogeography of A. albinucha was analyzed using two mitochondrial DNA regions from samples including 24 different localities throughout montane areas from eastern Mexico to Colombia. Phylogeographic analyses using Bayesian inference, maximum likelihood and haplotype network revealed incomplete geographic structure. The genetic diversity pattern is congruent with a recent process of expansion, which is also supported by Ecological Niche Models (ENM) constructed for the species and projected into three past scenarios. Overall, the results revealed an incomplete genetic divergence among populations of A. albinucha in spite of the species’ ample range, which contrasts with previous results of phylogeographic patterns in other Neotropical montane forest bird species, suggesting idiosyncratic evolutionary histories for different taxa throughout the region.
["allotypy"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new treefrog from Cordillera del Cóndor with comments on the biogeographic affinity between Cordillera del Cóndor and the Guianan Tepuis (Anura, Hylidae, Hyloscirtus)
The Hyloscirtus larinopygion group is a clade of 16 species of large hylids that inhabit cascading Andean streams. They have brown coloration that, in most species, contrasts with bright marks. Herein morphological and genetic evidence is used to describe a new species of the group from Cordillera del Cóndor, a sub-Andean mountain chain that has phytogeographic affinities with the Guianan Tepuis. The new species is characterized by dark-brown coloration with contrasting bright orange flecks and by the presence of an enlarged and curved prepollex protruding as a spine. The new species is closely related to H. tapichalaca and an undescribed species from the southern Andes of Ecuador. The genetic distance between H. hillisi sp. n. and its closest relative, H. tapichalaca, is 2.9% (gene 16S mtDNA). Our phylogeny and a review of recently published phylogenies show that amphibians from Cordillera del Cóndor have close relationships with either Andean or Amazonian species. Amphibians do not show the Condor-Guianan Tepuis biogeographic link that has been documented in plants.

A new species of Catapiestus Perty, 1831 from China (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Cnodalonini)
A new species of the genus Catapiestus Perty, 1831 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Cnodalonini), C. bispinosus, is described from Leigonsan National Nature Reserve, Leishan County, Guizhou, China. The identification key by Lang and Ren for the species of Catapiestus is modified.
["darkling beetle"]

Phylogenetic and morphological discord indicates introgressive hybridisation in two genera of Australian millipedes (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Discord between molecular and morphological datasets was observed in two pairs of species of Australian millipedes in the family Paradoxosomatidae using morphological and molecular phylogenetic analysis (mitochondrial COI rDNA and 16 rRNA, and nuclear 28S rRNA). Close to the presumed distributional boundary between Pogonosternum nigrovirgatum (Carl, 1912) and Pogonosternum jeekeli Decker, 2017, near Dargo in Central Gippsland, Victoria, Pogonosternum specimens were collected which are phylogenetically closer to P. jeekeli in COI and 16S sequences, but are morphologically closer to P. nigrovirgatum. At Mount Osmond, Adelaide, South Australia, eight morphologically typical Somethus castaneus (Attems, 1944) specimens were collected are phylogenetically closer to S. castaneus in 28S genealogy, but three of the eight are closer to S. lancearius Jeekel, 2002 in COI genealogy. These two cases are discussed in terms of hybridisation, past introgressive hybridisation events and aberrant morphology.
["Aberrant morphology"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Skeleton and musculature of the male abdomen in Tanyderidae (Diptera, Nematocera) of the Southern Hemisphere
The structure of the male terminalia and their musculature of species of tanyderid genera Araucoderus Alexander, 1929 from Chile and Nothoderus Alexander, 1927 from Tasmania are examined and compared with each other and with published data on the likely relatives. The overall pattern of male terminalia of both genera is similar to those of most Southern Hemisphere genera, with simple curved gonostyli, lobe-like setose parameres, and setose cerci inconspicuous under the epandrium. Both genera have terminalia similarly rotated by 180° (and 90° as an intermediate stage); rotation may be either clockwise or counterclockwise. However, the similar patterns are realized differently: segment VIII is the decreased and asymmetrical due to completely membranose tergite VIII in Nothoderus (the first record of such modification in Tanyderidae), but narrow and symmetrical in Araucoderus. Accordingly, pregenital muscles are very different between the genera. Based on localization of muscle attachment sites, the hypandrial origin of the stripe between gonocoxites is shown in both genera, and entire membranization of tergite VIII and partial membranization of hypoproct is shown in Nothoderus. Tanyderidae are characterized by highly specialized sclerites and muscles of male terminalia and provide no evidence of relationship with previously studied members of Psychodidae, Blephariceridae and Ptychopteridae.
["crane flies"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Sphaerius Waltl from China (Coleoptera, Myxophaga, Sphaeriusidae)
A new species, Sphaerius minutus sp. n., is described and illustrated from Jinggangshan Mts., Jiangxi Province, China. It is the first species of this family described from East Asia. This species lives under wet stones at the edge of rivers.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Two new species of Amphinemura (Plecoptera, Nemouridae) from the southern Qinling Mountains of China, based on male, female and larvae
Two new species of the genus Amphinemura, A. albicauda sp. n. and A. dingoidea sp. n. from the southern Qinling Mountains, Foping County of Shaanxi Province, western China, are described based on both sexes and the larval stage. The new species are compared with related taxa, and the A. sinensis species group is defined for an Oriental lineage of the genus. Amphinemura sinensis (Wu, 1926) and A. unihamata (Wu, 1973) are reported from Shaanxi for the first time, and the hitherto unknown female of A. unihamata is described. A distribution map of the Amphinemurinae known from Qinling Mountains is given.
["Amphinemura"]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Hungarian Social, Economic and Educational Studies"]

Comparative larval ultramorphology of some myrmecophilous Aleocharinae (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae), with a first description of the larvae of Amidobia talpa (Heer O, 1841) and Oxypoda haemorrhoa (Mannerheim C.G., 1830), associated with the Formica rufa species group
The paper describes the external structures of the late larval stages of two Palearctic myrmecophilous staphylinids: Amidobia talpa and Oxypoda haemorrhoa associated with the Formica rufa species group. This is the first-ever description of the larva of Amidobia, and the only complete, detailed account of the morphology of this developmental stage in the genus Oxypoda currently available. For the first time in these two genera, 13 and 10 larval diagnostic features, respectively, are proposed. Morphological differences have been established between known and the newly described larvae of five species (genera) of myrmecophilous and one non-myrmecophilous Aleocharinae, belonging to three tribes. Amidobia talpa and O. haemorrhoa are probably typical, tiny predators, like most other Aleocharinae, including non-myrmecophilous ones. Being very small and highly mobile, they are ignored by worker ants. Not surprisingly, no particular larval morphological modifications were found to enable them to survive among ants. Such features have, however, evolved in the larvae of larger aleocharines, that is, those that are perceived by ants and are wholly integrated with their hosts in the ant nest (e.g. Lomechusa). This comparative analysis of the functional morphology of the larvae of known myrmecophilous Aleocharinae is a springboard to further such studies of these interesting insects.
["Aleocharines"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The morphology of the preimaginal stages of Rhinusa neta (Germar, 1821) and notes on its biology (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Mecinini)
A detailed description of the mature larva and pupa of Rhinusa neta (Germar, 1821) and new diagnostic features of this species are presented. The development cycle of R. neta in the standard conditions lasts almost 60 days: an 11-day egg period, a 29-day larval period, and an 18-day pupal period, on average. The larvae are parasitised by hymenopterans of the superfamily Chalcidoidea. Similarities and differences with Rhinusa bipustulata and other species of this genus are presented.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Gastrocopta armigerella (Reinhardt, 1877) and Gastrocopta theeli (Westerlund, 1877) in western Tien Shan, Kyrgyzstan, and their further occurrence in Asia (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Pupilloidea)
Gastrocopta armigerella (Reinhardt, 1877) has been described from Japan and is widespread in the Far East and China. Surprisingly, a few occurrences in central and western Asia have also become known. Forcart (1935) found G. armigerella in northern Iran. The authors found evidence of G. armigerella in western Tien Shan, Kyrgyzstan. The form from northern Tajikistan described by Schileyko (1984) as G. huttoniana agrees morphologically with G. armigerella as well. Gastrocopta huttoniana is known from western India and the Himalayan region. The evidence of G. armigerella from central and western Asia has come thus far from drift material at the high water line in river floodplains which suggests that these are sub-fossil or fossil shells (Holocene or Pleistocene) which have been relocated. No living example of Gastrocopta has been found there as yet. Possibly the species is now extinct in this region. Gastrocopta theeli (Westerlund, 1877) is the most widespread Gastrocopta in Eurasia. Its area ranges from the Caucasus to the Far East. The findings reported here are the first for this species in western Tien Shan.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species of Lobellina and first record of Vietnura from China (Collembola: Neanuridae: Neanurinae)
A new species of Lobellina Yosii, 1956 and a key to all species of the genus is provided. It is distinguished from all known members of the genus by its unique set of morphological characters: mandible with six teeth, cephalic chaeta O present, and free from tubercle Fr, cephalic tubercle Oc with three chaetae, cephalic tubercle Di separate, and tubercle Dl with four (sometimes three) chaetae, Ant. I with eight chaetae, and claw with an inner tooth. Vietnura caerulea Deharveng & Bedos, 2000 is recorded from China for the first time. New localities of Rambutanura hunanensis Jiang & Dong, 2018 and Vitronura paraacuta Wang, Wang & Jiang, 2016 from southwest China are also provided.

Notes on Glaucocharis (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) from China, with descriptions of two new species
Two new species belonging to the genus Glaucocharis Meyrick, 1938 are described from southwest China: Glaucocharis sperlingi sp. n. and G. nussi sp. n. The female of G. castaneus Song & Chen, 2002 is described for the first time. The geographical distribution of the genus in China is analysed. The precipitation of the warmest quarter is revealed to be the strongest predictor affecting the present distribution pattern of the genus. A map showing the distribution of the known Chinese localities of Glaucocharis is provided.
["Pyraloidea"]

Nine new species of Clada from Madagascar (Coleoptera, Ptinidae)
Nine new species of the genus Clada (s. str.) Pascoe, 1887 (Bostrichoidea: Ptinidae: Eucradinae) are described from Madagascar: Clada (Clada) barclayisp. n., C. (C.) dimbyisp. n., C. (C.) fasciatasp. n., C. (C.) lalaesp. n., C. (C.) madagascarensissp. n., C. (C.) mamyisp. n., C. (C.) njakaisp. n., C. (C.) obesasp. n., and C. (C.) rindraisp. n. No species of this genus were previously known from Madagascar. Photographs of the dorsal habiti and drawings the male and female antennae and aedeagi of most of these species are given.

Timarete posteria, a new cirratulid species from Korea (Annelida, Polychaeta, Cirratulidae)
A new cirratulid species, Timarete posteria sp. n., is described from the intertidal habitats of the eastern coast of South Korea. The new species is closely related to Timarete luxuriosa (Moore, 1904) from southern California based on morphological similarity of the branchial and tentacular finalents and the noto- and neuropodial spines. However, T. posteria sp. n. differs from the latter based on the following characteristics: 1) evenly divided peristomium into three annulations; 2) 2–4 neuropodial spines originating in the posterior chaetigers alternated by a few capillaries; and 3) complete shift in branchial finalents located about one-third between the notopodium and the dorsal midline. The new species has a methyl green staining pattern (MGSP) distinct from other Timarete species. Detailed description and illustrations of the new species are provided with molecular information based on the partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and 16S ribosomal RNA (16S). This study also includes a key and discussion of known Timarete species from East Asia.
["Korean waters"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Parasogata gen. n., a new genus of the tribe Delphacini with descriptions of two new species from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae)
A new planthopper genus Parasogata gen. n. (Delphacidae: Delphacinae: Delphacini) was described and illustrated with two new species P. binaria sp. n. and P. furca sp. n. from south China. A key to species of the new genus is also given.
["Delphacid"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Revision of the Oriental species of Calleida Latreille (sensu lato). Part 2: the C. discoidalis species group (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini)
The C. discoidalis species group of the genus Calleida Latreille from Asia (in the sense of Casale and Shi 2018) is revised with six species recognized. Four new species are described: C. piligera Shi & Casale, sp. n. (type locality: Taiwan: Siling, 24.65°N, 121.42°E); C. cochinchinae Casale & Shi, sp. n. (type locality: Vietnam: “Cochinchina”); C. yunnanensis Shi & Casale, sp. n. (type locality: Yunnan: Caiyanghe, 22.60°N, 101.12°E); and C. luzonensis Casale & Shi, sp. n. (type locality: Philippines: Nagtipunan, 16.22°N, 121.60°E). C. fukiensis Jedlička, 1963 is confirmed as an available and valid species name, and C. suensoni Kirschenhofer, 1986 is newly synonymized with it. A phylogenetic analysis of Oriental Calleida species, based on adult morphological characters, is performed. The results show that the monophyly of most species groups in Oriental Calleida is accepted, but the C. discoidalis group appears polyphyletic and comprises three lineages. However, because many species relationships in the cladogram lack significant supporting, presently the C. discoidalis group was remained to use for morphological convenience. Five types of female reproductive tracts were recognized, corresponding to five branches in the cladogram.
["Calleida"]

Four new troglophilic species of Loxosceles Heinecken & Lowe, 1832: contributions to the knowledge of recluse spiders from Brazilian caves (Araneae, Sicariidae)
Four new species of recluse spiders from Brazilian caves are described with both males and females. Loxosceles ericsoni Bertani, von Schimonsky & Gallão, sp. n. and L. karstica Bertani, von Schimonsky & Gallão, sp. n. both occur in caves in the Peruaçu region, located in the northern area of the state of Minas Gerais; L. karstica sp. n. is additionally found in the Serra do Ramalho karst area, located in the southwestern region of the state of Bahia. These two species belong to the gaucho group. Loxosceles carinhanha Bertani, von Schimonsky & Gallão, sp. n. and L. cardosoi Bertani, von Schimonsky & Gallão, sp. n. occur exclusively in caves of the Serra do Ramalho karst area and belong to the rufescens/amazonica species group. The discovery of two additional and highly distinct species in the rufescens/amazonica group (L. carinhanha sp. n. and L. cardosoi sp. n.) increases the debate on the origin, evolution, and geographical distribution of this widely distributed group of recluse spiders in the New and Old World. The presence of three species (L. ericsoni sp. n., L. carinhanha sp. n., and L. cardosoi sp. n.) with marked differences in morphological characters in a relatively small area indicates that the region seems to be an important center for Loxosceles diversity, which remains poorly studied.
["Bahia"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Three new “caecate” earthworm species from Sulawesi, Indonesia (Oligochaeta, Megascolecidae)
Three new earthworm species are described from Sulawesi, Indonesia. Two belong to the genus Pithemera Sims & Easton, 1972, namely P. suwastikai Fahri, Amaliah & Atmowidi, sp. n. and P. tadulako Fahri, Amaliah & Atmowidi, sp. n. The new species, P. suwastikai sp. n. is distinguished by a medium size (135–165 mm long, 4.5–6.5 mm diameter), four pairs of spermathecal pores in 5/6/7/8/9, 7–12 setae between male pores, no genital markings, holandry, and simple intestinal caeca. Pithemera tadulako sp. n. is recognized by a large size (217–340 mm long, 13–15 mm diameter), two pairs of spermathecal pores in 7/8/9, no setae between male pores, no genital markings, holandry, and simple intestinal caeca. Another new species, Metaphire rusydii Fahri, Amaliah & Nguyen, sp. n., is diagnosed by its large size (250–280 mm long,12–16 mm diameter), two pairs of spermathecal pores in 7/8/9, no setae between male porophores, presence of genital markings in the male region, holandry, and complex intestinal caeca. Additionally, an identification key to “caecate” species is provided to the Sulawesi’s fauna.
["Caecate earthworms"]

New data on the distribution, biology and ecology of the longhorn beetles from the area of South and East Kazakhstan (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
New data on the distribution, biology and ecology of the longhorn beetles occurring in southern and eastern regions of Kazakhstan are presented together with a list of 78 species that were collected during two entomological expeditions conducted in May and June 2017. New localities of some rare taxa endemic to this region of Asia, such as Psilotarsus brachypterus brachypterus (Gebler, 1830), Stenocorus minutus (Gebler, 1841) and Dorcadion crassipes crassipes Ballion, 1878 are given. Exocentrus stierlini Ganglbauer, 1883 is recorded from Kazakhstan for the first time. Moreover, the occurrence of three species: Amarysius duplicatus Tsherepanov, 1980, Rhopaloscelis unifasciatus Blessig, 1873 and Saperda alberti Plavilstshikov, 1916, which were recently found in the country, is also confirmed. Furthermore, high-quality photographs of several unique taxa, i.e. Psilotarsus brachypterus pubiventris (Semenov, 1900), Xylotrechus adspersus (Gebler, 1830), X. alakolensis Karpiński & Szczepański, 2018, Anoplistes galusoi (Kostin, 1974), A. jacobsoni Baeckmann, 1904 and Oberea kostini Danilevsky, 1988 along with images of their habitats and feeding galleries are also presented. New localities of species considered serious pests or invasive, such as Turanium scabrum (Kraatz, 1882) and Trichoferus campestris (Faldermann, 1835), respectively, are also given. A new synonymy is proposed: Cerambyx scalaris Linnaeus, 1758 = Cerambyx hieroglyphicus Pallas, 1773, syn. n.
["Anoplistes"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

First report of the genus Rhyncholagena Lang, 1944 from the South China Sea, with the description of a new species (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Miraciidae)
During analysis of sediment samples from South China Sea, a new species belonging to the genus Rhyncholagena Lang, 1944 was found and described here. Rhyncholagena paraspinifer sp. n. differs from its congeners by the following combined characteristics: body ornamented dorsally with at least one row of spinules on each somite except penultimate urosomite; A2 exopod two-segmented; P1 enp-2 with one inner seta; P3 exp-3 with two inner setae, P3 enp-2 with one inner seta; female P5 exopod with five setae; male P5 baseoendopod with two setae and exopod with four setae. This is the first report of the genus Rhyncholagena in the China seas. In addition, a key to all valid species of Rhyncholagena is given, along with tables of morphological characters of all valid species and their distributions.
["Benthic copepods"]
["Geological and Geophysical Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

The incredible diversity of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge in New Guinea revealed by integrative taxonomy (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Material collected between 1999 and 2011 in Papua New Guinea and the Papua Province of Indonesia unveiled the enormous diversity of Labiobaetis on this island. Twenty-six new species were identified and delimited by integrative taxonomy using genetic distance (COI, Kimura-2-parameter) and morphology. These new species are described and illustrated based on larvae, augmenting the total number of Labiobaetis species on the island of New Guinea to 32. Seven morpho-groups of species are proposed based on morphological characters and a key to all New Guinea species is provided. The generic attributes of the larvae are summarised and slightly modified based on the examinations of the new species. Results on the genetics of most species (COI) are also provided. The interspecific K2P distances are between 13% and 32%, the intraspecific distances usually between 0% and 2%. Possible reasons for the remarkable richness of this genus in New Guinea are discussed.

Introduction of the Exocelina casuarina-group, with a key to its representatives and descriptions of 19 new species from New Guinea (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Nineteen new species of Exocelina Broun, 1886 from New Guinea are described herein: E. adelbertensis sp. n., E. ambua sp. n., E. bewani sp. n., E. cyclops sp. n., E. ibalimi sp. n., E. keki sp. n., E. kumulensis sp. n., E. mendiensis sp. n., E. menyamya sp. n., E. okapa sp. n., E. piusi sp. n., E. pseudofume sp. n., E. pseudopusilla sp. n., E. pusilla sp. n., E. sima sp. n., E. simbaiensis sp. n., E. simbaijimi sp. n., E. sumokedi sp. n., and E. yoginofi sp. n. All of them, together with five already described species, have been united into the newly defined casuarina-group, a polyphyletic complex of related species with similar shape of the median lobe and paramere setation. An identification key to all known species of the group is provided, and important diagnostic characters (habitus, color, male protarsomeres 4–5, median lobes, and parameres) are illustrated. Data on the distribution of the species are given, showing that most of the species occur in the central, mountain part of Papua New Guinea.
["Copelatinae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The immatures of Bezzia chilensis Spinelli & Ronderos, 2001 (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)
The fourth instar larva and the pupa of Bezzia chilensis Spinelli & Ronderos, 2001 are described for the first time. The immature stages were collected from macrophytes and filamentous algae in streams of the Patagonian steppe, in the provinces of Neuquén and Chubut, Argentina. The described stages were photographed and illustrated with a phase-contrast microscope and scanning electron microscope. Data on the bionomics of the species, new records and tables for characters of the known larvae and pupae of Bezzia Kieffer, 1899 from the Neotropical region are provided.
["Aquatic"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Austrocodrus Ogloblin (Hymenoptera, Proctotrupidae, Austroserphinae), a Gondwanic relict from southernmost South America
Austrocodrus gladiogeminus sp. n. is described from southernmost South America. It is a member of the primitive subfamily Austroserphinae (Hymenoptera, Proctotrupidae), which is distributed in Oceania and South America, and is characterized from other Austrocodrus species by its relatively larger body size, the presence of long and sword-shaped ovipositor sheaths, M arising very close and distal to 1cu-a, and Cu and m-cu joining at a distance equivalent to the length of 2cu-a. We consider this species to be a Gondwanan relict. It has southernmost distribution of any proctotrupid.
["Chile"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new genus record and species of Dromoceryx Schmidt-Goebel, 1846 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini) from Taiwan, with a revised key to species
We describe a new genus record for Taiwan and a new species of the genus Dromoceryx Schmidt-Goebel, 1846. We add to the known fauna and distribution of the genus with a description, habitus, genitalic images, as well as a geographic range map for Dromoceryx nigrofovealis sp. n. A revised key to all species of the genus is included.
["Carabidae"]

A new species of Gaurax from the Czech Republic (Diptera, Chloropidae)
Gaurax siostrzoneki sp. n. (Diptera, Chloropidae) is described from the Czech Republic and the main differential characters are illustrated. A key to the European species of the genus is provided.
["Acalyptratae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Amazonopsis, an unusual new genus of riffle beetle from South America with two new species (Coleoptera, Elmidae, Elminae)
Amazonopsis gen. n. is described to include A. theranyi sp. n. from Peru, Venezuela and French Guiana, and A. camachoi sp. n. from Venezuela. The descriptions are accompanied by figures illustrating the male and female habitus of A. theranyi, the male habitus of A. camachoi, and male genitalia of both species. Amazonopsis theranyi exhibits pronounced secondary sexual dimorphism which likewise may be a characteristic of the genus. Amazonopsis males have modified protarsal and mesotarsal claws, a pair of small spines on the anterior prosternum, and a pair of ventrally directed processes on the posterior metaventrite. Females of A. theranyi display a pair of unique, oval perforations in the cuticle of the pronotum and have unmodified claws; females of A. camachoi are unknown. Descriptions are furnished of the stream habitats and microhabitats where the study specimens were collected.

Guilotes, a new genus of Coelotinae spiders from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China (Araneae, Agelenidae)
A new genus of the subfamily Coelotinae F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1893, Guilotes Z. Zhao & S. Li, gen. n. from China is described, as well as four new species: G. ludiensis Z. Zhao & S. Li, sp. n. (♂♀, type species), G. qingshitanensis Z. Zhao & S. Li, sp. n. (♂♀), G. xingpingensis Z. Zhao & S. Li, sp. n. (♂♀) and G. yandongensis Z. Zhao & S. Li, sp. n. (♀). The DNA barcodes of all species are documented for future use.

A survey of the Porrhoclubiona Lohmander, 1944 from Central Asia (Araneae, Clubiondae)
Clubiona Latreille, 1804, with more than 500 named species, is one of the largest genera of Araneae. The genus has 15 synonyms, most of which are not listed in the World Spider Catalog (2018) and unknown to many arachnologists. The most comprehensive survey of Clubiona sensu lato by Wunderlich (2011) also lacked a few synonyms. In this paper all genus group names described in Clubiona are listed with their type species. Most of these names correspond to the species groups recognised in Clubiona sensu lato. We agree that Porrhoclubiona Lohmander, 1944 (= Clubiona genevensis-group) deserves a status of a separate genus and provide the diagnosis of this taxon. Three species of Porrhoclubiona that occur in Central Asia are surveyed, and two of them are described as new to science: P. laudata (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1885), comb. n. (♂♀, Xinjiang, Tibet, China), P. bosmansi sp. n. (♂♀, Tajikistan), and P. moradmandi sp. n. (♂♀, Fars, Iran). It seems that all records of P. genevensis L. Koch, 1866 from China refer to P. laudata. The records of Clubiona vegeta Simon, 1918 from Tajikistan and Iran refer to P. bosmansi sp. n. and P. moradmandi sp. n., respectively. The following new combinations have been established: Porrhoclubiona decora (Blackwall, 1859), comb. n., P. diniensis (Simon, 1878), comb. n., P. leucaspis (Simon, 1932), comb. n., P. minor (Wunderlich, 1987), comb. n., P. pseudominor (Wunderlich, 1987), comb. n., P. pteronetoides (Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001), comb. n., P. vegeta (Simon, 1918), comb. n., P. viridula (Ono, 1989), comb. n., and P. wunderlichi (Mikhailov 1992), comb. n. (all ex. Clubiona). SEM study of the structure considered earlier as scopula in Clubiona and Porrhoclubiona reveals that it is represented by several lateral rows of movable macrosetae (spines) with a locking mechanism.

A revision of Syngalepsus Beier, with the description of two new species from the Central African Republic and Malawi (Mantodea, Tarachodidae)
The praying mantis subgenus Syngalepsus Beier, 1954 occurs in sub-Saharan region and represents the least diverse subgenus of Galepsus in Africa (Ehrmann 2002). All species included within the subgenus Syngalepsus are comprehensively revised with a distribution stretching from North of Congo Basin to South Africa. Two new species of Galepsus (Syngalepsus) Beier, 1954 (Mantodea, Tarachodidae) from the Central African Republic (CAR) and Malawi are described. Among several Galepsus specimens collected during scientific expeditions of SANGHA, Biodiversité en Terre Pygmée, in CAR’s Dzanga-Ndoki National Park, a specimen differed by genitalia conformation and other morphological characters. Two specimens collected in Malawi proved to differ by genitalia morphology. Galepsus (Syngalepsus) buchetisp. n. and Galepsus (Syngalepsus) dudleyisp. n. are described. An identification key for the six species of the subgenus is provided.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Loxosceles Heineken & Lowe (Araneae, Sicariidae), with updated distribution records and biogeographical comments for the species from Mexico, including a new record of Loxosceles rufescens (Dufour)
A new species of the spider genus Loxosceles Heineken & Lowe, 1832, Loxosceles malintzi sp. n., is described from the states of Puebla, Morelos and Guerrero, in the central region of Mexico. The description is based on adult males and females with morphological and ultra-morphological images. Updated distribution maps are provided for the 39 species recorded from the Mexican territory (including the new species). The states with the greatest diversity are Baja California Sur, Baja California and Sonora, with five species each. A total of 441 records for the 39 species, based on arachnological collections, data bases and literature, were used to update the distribution maps. Loxosceles boneti Gertsch, 1958 is the species with the highest number of records in Mexico, with a total of 58 records from different localities. The states with the most records so far are Guerrero, with 55 records, Morelos, with 35 records, and Baja California Sur, with 30 records. Loxosceles rufescens (Dufour, 1820), an introduced species, is recorded for the second time in Mexico, from the state of Chihuahua, being the first well-documented record for the country. Mexico has the greatest diversity of species of Loxosceles worldwide, with 39 (two introduced species) of the 134 described species. Additionally, biogeographical comments for the species from Mexico are provided.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Woodlice and their parasitoid flies: revision of Isopoda (Crustacea, Oniscidea) – Rhinophoridae (Insecta, Diptera) interaction and first record of a parasitized Neotropical woodlouse species
Terrestrial isopods are soil macroarthropods that have few known parasites and parasitoids. All known parasitoids are from the family Rhinophoridae (Insecta: Diptera). The present article reviews the known biology of Rhinophoridae flies and presents the first record of Rhinophoridae larvae on a Neotropical woodlouse species. We also compile and update all published interaction records. The Neotropical woodlouse Balloniscus glaber was parasitized by two different larval morphotypes of Rhinophoridae. Including this new record, there are 18 Isopoda species known to be parasitized and 13 Rhinophoridae species with known hosts, resulting in 35 interactions. There are a total of 53 interaction records from Holarctic and Neotropical countries. Of the 18 known isopod hosts, only five species have more than one parasitoid, including the new Neotropical host record presented in this work.
["Diptera"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Interspecific variation in responses to microclimate by terrestrial isopods: implications in relation to climate change
The importance of considering species-specific biotic interactions when predicting feedbacks between the effects of climate change and ecosystem functions is becoming widely recognised. The responses of soil animals to predicted changes in global climate could potentially have far-reaching consequences for fluxes of soil carbon, including climatic feedbacks resulting from increased emissions of carbon dioxide from soils. The responses of soil animals to different microclimates can be summarised as norms of reaction, in order to compare phenotypic differences in traits along environmental gradients. Thermal and moisture reaction norms for physiological, behavioural and life history traits of species of terrestrial isopods differing in their morphological adaptations for reducing water loss are presented. Gradients of moisture reaction norms for respiratory rates and thermal reaction norms for water loss, for a species from the littoral zone were steeper than those for species from mesic environments. Those for mesic species were steeper than for those from xeric habitats. Within mesic species, gradients of thermal reaction norms for aggregation were steeper for Oniscus asellus than for Porcellio scaber or Armadillium vulgare, and moisture reaction norms for sheltering and feeding behaviours were steeper for Philoscia muscorum than for either P. scaber or A. vulgare. These differences reflect differences in body shape, permeability of the cuticle, and development of pleopodal lungs. The implications of differences between different species of soil animals in response to microclimate on the possible influence of the soil fauna on soil carbon dynamics under future climates are discussed. In conclusion a modelling approach to bridging the inter-disciplinary gap between carbon cycling and the biology of soil animals is recommended.
["Aggregation"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Terrestrial isopods associated with shallow underground of forested scree slopes in the Western Carpathians (Slovakia)
The shallow underground of forested scree slopes represents a little-studied subterranean biotope. In this paper, species diversity and depth distribution of terrestrial isopod communities studied in the depth profile (5–95 cm from the surface) of eight forested scree slopes in the Western Carpathians (Slovakia) is discussed. The southern edge of the Western Carpathians where the study sites are located represents the northernmost limit of distribution of obligate subterranean fauna in Europe. The sites differ from each other in type of bedrock, forest composition, slope aspect, and altitude. To sample isopods, a set of three subterranean pitfall traps consisting of a plastic cylinder (Ø 110 mm) and ten plastic cups was buried in each studied scree slope. In total, 252 isopods belonging to eleven species were sampled (1–5 species per site). Of the species found, the blind and depigmented Mesoniscus graniger was the sole species closely associated with deeper parts of the depth profile and was present in most of the sites studied. Another ten species were represented by a small number of individuals and their occurrence deeper in the scree slope profile was rather accidental. A comparison between winter and summer periods indicates apparent differences in seasonal activities of isopods. Ethylene glycol seems to be more appropriate fixative solution for trapping isopods than formaldehyde.
["depth distribution"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Description of a new species of the genus Protracheoniscus Verhoeff, 1917 and redescription of Protracheoniscus kryszanovskii Borutzky, 1957 from the southeast of European Russia (Isopoda, Oniscidea, Agnaridae)
A new species of woodlice, Protracheoniscus pokarzhevskii Gongalsky & Turbanov, sp. n. is described from Kalmykia, NE Pre-Caspian region, Russia. Protracheoniscus kryszanovskii Borutzky, 1957 from the same area is also redescribed. Diagnostic features of these species as well as affinities within the genus are provided and discussed.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Terrestrial isopods of the family Eubelidae Budde-Lund, 1899 from Iran, with description of a new species (Isopoda, Oniscidea)
In the present work, terrestrial isopods of the family Eubelidae are investigated in Iran. The genera Periscyphis and Somalodillo are reported for the first time. More localities are presented for Koweitoniscus tamei (Omer-Cooper, 1923) while K. shafieii Kashani, sp. n. is described and figured. A map indicating the sampling localities for the species is presented.
["Eubelidae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

The genus Alpioniscus Racovitza, 1908 in Sardinia: taxonomy and natural history (Isopoda, Oniscidea, Trichoniscidae)
The genus Alpioniscus Racovitza, 1908 (Trichoniscidae) from Sardinia is revised. Three new cave-dwelling species are described: A. onnisi Taiti & Argano, sp. n., A. stochi Taiti & Argano, sp. n., and A. sideralis Taiti & Argano, sp. n.. The genus Utopioniscus Schmalfuss, 2005 is considered to be a junior synonym of Alpioniscus, after morphological and molecular analyses. Alpioniscus fragilis (Budde-Lund, 1909) and A. kuehni from Grotta del Bue Marino are illustrated. With the new species, the genus Alpioniscus in Sardinia comprises six species: two troglobionts (A. fragilis and A. onnisi), one endogean and troglobiont (A. thanit Taiti & Argano, 2009), and three stygobionts (A. kuehni, A. stochi, and A. sideralis). All the species occur in karstic areas in the central-eastern and south-eastern part of the island. A key to all the Sardinian species of Alpioniscus is provided.
["Alpioniscus"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Terrestrial isopods (Oniscidea) of the White Carpathians (Czech Republic and Slovakia)
This paper summarizes data regarding the terrestrial isopods of the White Carpathians range in the Western Outer Carpathians based on field research undertaken during the past several decades in natural meadow pasture and forest localities. Using a combination of four collection methods 19 species belonging to nine families were recorded. The most common representatives were Protracheoniscus politusTrachelipus rathkii and Ligidium hypnorum. In general the biodiversity of isopod communities in the studied area was considerable with half of the localities explored inhabited by six to ten species. The composition of the isopod assemblages was determined by the character of the biotope and its geographical location. Forest habitats were considerably richer in species than the meadow and pasture ecosystems. Some xerotermic localities in the Slovak part of the area were inhabited by Trachelipus nodulosus and Orthometopon planum thermophilic species typically associated with warmer parts of Europe. Two relic species (Hyloniscus mariae and Ligidium germanicum) were confirmed for this area. Except for only one finding of Porcellio scaber no other evidently introduced or synanthropic species were recorded. Based on the data analyzed the high nature conservancy value of the given area is emphasised.
["Czech Republic"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Effect of agricultural practices on terrestrial isopods: a review
Terrestrial isopods (approximately 3700 known species in the world) are encountered in temperate and tropical regions, from the seashore to high altitudes and from floodplain forests to deserts. They are known to contribute to soil biodiversity. Environmental factors and anthropogenic actions, particularly land use changes such as primarily agricultural practices, and urbanization affect soil biodiversity and their functions. Human practices, such as soil tillage, pesticide application, chemical pollution, along with soil acidification adversely affect isopod abundance and diversity. It is thus important to recognise the vital contributions of soil biodiversity in support of environmental quality protection through maintaining soil functions and their significance to sustainable land use. This review will also deal with recent studies attempting to evaluate the impact of returning to an environmentally friendly agriculture by restoring refuge habitats such as grass strips, hedges, and woodlands for terrestrial isopods.
["agroecosystems"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Presence of a stridulatory apparatus in the manca stages of isopods (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea)
Armadillo officinalis Duméril, 1816 (Armadillidae) is a widespread terrestrial isopod species in the Mediterranean basin and on the western coasts of the Black Sea. The species is adapted to live in xeric environments and has mainly nocturnal habits. This species is capable of producing stridulations, which is nowadays recognized as a synapomorphy of the genus. In both sexes, these vibrations are produced by a line of scales on the propodus of pereopod 4 and 5. The main goals of this study are: to describe the manca stages of Armadillo officinalis; to detect the presence of the stridulatory apparatus in the manca stages; to evaluate the differences of such apparatus in the various manca stages. The manca stages (I, II, III) of Armadillo officinalis are described for the first time showing: i, the shortest duration (known in literature) of the manca stage I (approximately 30 minutes); ii, the presence of a rudimental stridulatory organ that may be of great importance in terms of evolutionary aspects and adaptation to terrestrial life. Notes on the reproductive biology are also reported. Furthermore, some considerations on future perspectives for A. officinalis as a model species in biotremology are also discussed.
["Armadillo"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Morphological traits – desiccation resistance – habitat characteristics: a possible key for distribution in woodlice (Isopoda, Oniscidea)
Terrestrial isopods, as successful colonizers of land habitats, show a great variety in species distribution patterns on a global, continental, or regional scale. On a local, within-habitat level these patterns reflect the species’ tolerance limits and the presence of suitable hiding places (shelter sites, refugia). Humidity preference reflects a species’ capability for water retention which, in turn, depends on the integumental barrier. Desiccation resistance is a key feature in isopod survival under different environmental conditions. The present study shows a correlation between cuticle thickness and desiccation resistance under three relative humidity (RH) ranges (about 30, 75 and 100% RH) in nine species, relating these to the species’ differences in meso- and microhabitat choices. Habitat preferences are also associated with differences in cuticle surface morphology. The results support our hypothesis that species distribution and desiccation resistance are associated with particular cuticular morphological traits. Phylogenetic relations seem to be less important in desiccation resistance than cuticle thickness and external morphology.
["Eco-morphology"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Revision of the genus Megacraspedus Zeller, 1839, a challenging taxonomic tightrope of species delimitation (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae)
The taxonomy of the Palearctic genus Megacraspedus Zeller, 1839 (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae) is revised, based on external morphology, genitalia and DNA barcodes. An integrative taxonomic approach supports the existence of 85 species which are arranged in 24 species groups (disputed taxa from other faunal regions are discussed). Morphology of all species is described and figured in detail. For 35 species both sexes are described; for 46 species only the male sex is reported, in one species the male is unknown, whereas in three species the female adult and/or genitalia morphology could not be analysed due to lack of material. DNA barcode sequences of the COI barcode fragment with > 500 bp were obtained from 264 specimens representing 62 species or about three-quarters of the species. Species delimitation is particularly difficult in a few widely distributed species with high and allegedly intraspecific DNA barcode divergence of nearly 14%, and with up to 23 BINs in a single species. Deep intraspecific or geographical splits in DNA barcode are frequently not supported by morphology, thus indicating a complex phylogeographic history or other unresolved molecular problems. The following 44 new species (22 of them from Europe) are described: Megacraspedus bengtssoni sp. n. (Spain), M. junnilaineni sp. n. (Turkey), M. similellus sp. n. (Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey), M. golestanicus sp. n. (Iran), M. tokari sp. n. (Croatia), M. neli sp. n. (France, Italy), M. faunierensis sp. n. (Italy), M. gredosensis sp. n. (Spain), M. bidentatus sp. n. (Spain), M. fuscus sp. n. (Spain), M. trineae sp. n. (Portugal, Spain), M. skoui sp. n. (Spain), M. spinophallus sp. n. (Spain), M. occidentellus sp. n. (Portugal), M. granadensis sp. n. (Spain), M. heckfordi sp. n. (Spain), M. tenuiuncus sp. n. (France, Spain), M. devorator sp. n. (Bulgaria, Romania), M. brachypteris sp. n. (Albania, Greece, Macedonia, Montenegro), M. barcodiellus sp. n. (Macedonia), M. sumpichi sp. n. (Spain), M. tabelli sp. n. (Morocco), M. gallicus sp. n. (France, Spain), M. libycus sp. n. (Libya, Morocco), M. latiuncus sp. n. (Kazahkstan), M. kazakhstanicus sp. n. (Kazahkstan), M. knudlarseni sp. n. (Spain), M. tenuignathos sp. n. (Morocco), M. glaberipalpus sp. n. (Morocco), M. nupponeni sp. n. (Russia), M. pototskii sp. n. (Kyrgyzstan), M. feminensis sp. n. (Kazakhstan), M. kirgizicus sp. n. (Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan), M. ibericus sp. n. (Portugal, Spain), M. steineri sp. n. (Morocco), M. gibeauxi sp. n. (Algeria, Tunisia), M. multipunctellus sp. n. (Turkey), M. teriolensis sp. n. (Croatia, Greece, Italy, Slovenia), M. korabicus sp. n. (Macedonia), M. skulei sp. n. (Spain), M. longivalvellus sp. n. (Morocco), M. peslieri sp. n. (France, Spain), M. pacificus sp. n. (Afghanistan), and M. armatophallus sp. n. (Afghanistan). Nevadia Caradja, 1920, syn. n. (homonym), Cauloecista Dumont, 1928, syn. n., Reichardtiella Filipjev, 1931, syn. n., and Vadenia Caradja, 1933, syn. n. are treated as junior synonyms of Megacraspedus. Furthermore the following species are synonymised: M. subdolellus Staudinger, 1859, syn. n., M. tutti Walsingham, 1897, syn. n., and M. grossisquammellus Chrétien, 1925, syn. n. of M. lanceolellus (Zeller, 1850); M. culminicola Le Cerf, 1932, syn. n. of M. homochroa Le Cerf, 1932; M. separatellus (Fischer von Röslerstamm, 1843), syn. n. and M. incertellus Rebel, 1930, syn. n. of M. dolosellus (Zeller, 1839); M. mareotidellus Turati, 1924, syn. n. of M. numidellus (Chrétien, 1915); M. litovalvellus Junnilainen, 2010, syn. n. of M. imparellus (Fischer von Röslerstamm, 1843); M. kaszabianus Povolný, 1982, syn. n. of M. leuca (Filipjev, 1929); M. chretienella (Dumont, 1928), syn. n., M. halfella (Dumont, 1928), syn. n., and M. arnaldi (Turati & Krüger, 1936), syn. n. of M. violacellum (Chrétien, 1915); M. escalerellus Schmidt, 1941, syn. n. of M. squalida Meyrick, 1926. Megacraspedus ribbeella (Caradja, 1920), comb. n., M. numidellus (Chrétien, 1915), comb. n., M. albella (Amsel, 1935), comb. n., M. violacellum (Chrétien, 1915), comb. n., and M. grisea (Filipjev, 1931), comb. n. are newly combined in Megacraspedus.
["Brachyptery"]

The easternmost discovery of the Mediterranean weevil Pachyrhinus lethierryi (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae): Is a further invasion possible?
Pachyrhinus lethierryi (Desbrochers des Loges, 1875) is a Mediterranean weevil species that has become remarkably well known as a result of a series of recent introductions across Western and Central Europe. This species has recently reached Asia Minor and the Crimean Peninsula, as confirmed by several new records. The vectors of invasion in Crimea and possible further expansion are suggested.
["Asia Minor"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Taxonomy of myid bivalves from fragmented brackish-water habitats in India, with a description of a new genus Indosphenia (Myidae, Myoidea, Myidae)
A group of small bivalves inhabiting Indian brackish-water estuaries and lagoons (known locally as backwaters), variously assigned to Corbula, Cuspidaria, and Sphenia, are reviewed and, based on shell characters, shown to be congeneric. Molecular (COI) and morphological data indicate that this group belongs to the family Myidae. Furthermore, the combined data suggest that these Indian myids are a sister taxon of the genus Sphenia. The Indian material studied herein exhibits a functional morphology typical of infaunal bivalves, whereas typical Sphenia are nestling and epibyssate. A new genus, Indosphenia, is thus erected for the Indian group and includes five species, one of which is named in this study. Indosphenia kayalum Oliver, Hallan & Jayachandran, gen. et sp. n. is described from the Cochin Backwater on the western coast of India. Cuneocorbula cochinensis (Preston, 1916) is transferred to Indosphenia. Additionally, the west coast taxa I. abbreviata (Preston, 1907), I. abbreviata chilkaensis (Preston, 1911) and I. sowerbyi (EA Smith, 1893) are recognised herein. Corbula alcocki Preston, 1907, Corbula gracilis Preston, 1907, Corbula calcaria Preston, 1907 and Corbula pfefferi Preston, 1907 are placed in synonymy with I. abbreviata, and Cuspidaria annandalei Preston, 1915 is synonymised with I. abbreviata chilkaensis.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

The spider mites of the genus Eutetranychus Banks (Acari, Trombidiformes, Tetranychidae) from Saudi Arabia: two new species, a re-description, and a key to the world species
Two new species of the genus Eutetranychus Banks are described and illustrated based on adult females and males, E. spinosus sp. n. from Indigofera spinosa Forssk (Leguminosae), E. neotransversus sp. n. from Juniperus procera Hochst. ex Endl. (Cupressaceae), and E. palmatus Attiah, 1967 is redescribed from Washingtonia robusta H. Wendl. (Arecaceae). Additionally, the intraspecific morphological variations within E. orientalis populations, collected from 28 various host plants and 80 different localities from six regions of Saudi Arabia from 2009 to 2017, are discussed and presented. The genus Eutetranychus is divided into two species groups based on the presence of one seta (orientalis group) or two setae (banksi group) on coxa II. In addition, seven Eutetranychus species are suggested as synonyms of E. orientalis (Klein, 1936) and E. papayensis Iqbal & Ali, 2008 is considered as species inquirenda. A key to all known species of the genus Eutetranychus is provided.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

The Ashtamudi Lake short-neck clam: re-assigned to the genus Marcia H. Adams & A. Adams, 1857 (Bivalvia, Veneridae)
The economically valuable bivalve mollusc, known as the short-neck clam, is the major fishery resource of the brackishwater Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala, India. This fishery carries a Marine Stewardship Council certification for sustainability wherein it and all hitherto published reports identify the short-neck clam or yellow-foot clam as Paphia malabarica (Dillwyn, 1817). It is noted that this name does not conform with current nomenclature and is now correctly referred to Protapes gallus (Gmelin, 1791). Furthermore, it is shown that the identification is also incorrect. Comparative shell morphology of venerid clams of the subfamily Tapetinae from the south Indian coast demonstrates that the short-neck clam in Ashtamudi Lake is Marcia recens (Holten, 1802). Small numbers of M. opima (Gmelin, 1791) were found in Ashtamudi Lake but appear not to be part of, or contribute significantly to, the fishery. The venerid clams Protapes gallus and P. ziczac (Linnaeus, 1758) are not found in Ashtamudi Lake but are inhabitants of the shallow coastal waters of south India. Descriptions of the four confused species M. recens, M. opima, P. gallus, and P. ziczac are given. On the basis of this study, the species involved in Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification may be better considered at the generic level of Marcia or at the species level as Marcia recens, the most dominant species in the Ashtamudi Lake clam fishery zone.
["Fisheries management"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Systematics of the new genus Spinosuncus Chen, Zhang & Li with descriptions of four new species (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Pyraustinae)
The new genus Spinosuncus gen. n. is proposed for three known species, S. contractalis (Warren, 1896), comb. n., S. praepandalis (Snellen, 1890), comb. n., and S. aureolalis (Lederer, 1863), comb. n. and four new species, S. rectacutus sp. n., S. brevacutus sp. n., S. curvisetaceus sp. n., and S. quadracutus sp. n. from the Oriental Region. An identification key is provided for all species. The habiti and genitalia of all species are figured. The monophyly of the genus is well supported by a phylogenetic analysis based on sequence data of the COI, 16S rRNA, and EF-1α genes. The potential sister groups of the new genus, the interspecific relationships and some intraspecific variations within the genus are discussed.
["Aglaops"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant and animal studies"]

Two new species of Feroperis Lafer (Carabidae, Pterostichus) from China, with a key to all known Chinese species in this subgenus
Two new Pterostichus species (Coleoptera, Carabidae) in the subgenus Feroperis Lafer, 1979 are described from Zhangguangcai Mountain, northeastern China: Pterostichus (Feroperis) silvestris Sun & Shi, sp. n. and Pterostichus (Feroperis) maryseae Sun & Shi, sp. n. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the male endophallus and female reproductive tracts for these new species are provided, along with a key to the five known species of the subgenus in China.

The natural history of Calyptraea aurita (Reeve, 1859) from Southern Chile (Gastropoda, Calyptraeidae)
Hard bottom communities of the Reloncaví Estuary and adjacent areas, Region de los Lagos, Chile (42°S), were studied between 2008 and 2011. All hard substrates between the lower intertidal and 25 m depth were dominated by the calyptraeid gastropods, Crepipatella dilatata and C. fecunda. Epibenthic coverage of the hard bottoms markedly decreased further down with the exception of vertical cliffs. In a depth range between 26 to 48 m repeatedly dense patches of another calyptraeid species, Calyptraea aurita (Reeve, 1859), were observed. Densities reached up to 1475 individuals m-2 and covered up to 50 % of the rock surfaces. In shallower depths C. aurita was not present. However, despite its huge abundance, C. aurita has not been documented for more than 150 years in the southeastern Pacific, being described superficially by Reeve, through only shell characteristics. Here, we redescribe and compare it with other members of the family Calyptraeidae through characteristics of shell, radula, and soft parts, including also details of the egg mass and intracapsular development of their embryos. Males were mobile and females sessile. Shell size ranged from 6.6 to 12.4 mm for immature individuals, from 10.6 to 24.9 mm for males, 15.1 to 25.9 mm for intersex individuals, and from 21.0 to 39.6 mm for females. Up to three individuals stacked together were found, always presenting a female at the base with up to a maximum of two male individuals above. Laboratory studies demonstrated that C. aurita has an indirect larval development, liberating planktotrophic larvae with a bilobed ciliated velum into the water column. A transplantation experiment demonstrated that survival, growth, and reproduction of C. aurita is also possible in depths shallower than its normal distribution. The geographic distribution of C. aurita, was previously only known as being from Valparaíso (33°S) and is now extended down to the Reloncaví Sound (41°S).
["Calyptraeid gastropod"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

The morphology of the preimaginal stages of Cleopomiarus micros (Germar, 1821) (Curculionidae, Coleoptera) and notes on its biology
As yet little is known of the bionomics of weevils of the genus Cleopomiarus Pierce, 1919; current knowledge is limited to data on the morphology and biology of the preimaginal stages of certain species. This paper includes original information on the life cycle of Cleopomiarus micros (Germar, 1821). It presents the morphology of the egg, last larva (L3) and pupa. Data on the host plant (Jasione montana L.) and breeding plant (Campanula patula L.) and on the oviposition and phenology of the species are updated. The anatomy of the third-stage larva of C. micros shares certain traits with other species of the tribe Mecinini Gistel, 1848. Comparison of the morphology of preimaginal stages of C. micros with those previously described for other species of the genera Cleopomiarus and Miarus Schönherr, 1826 – previously considered the same genus – reveals species differences in larval body length, colour of the body and epicranium, and chaetotaxy of head and body.
["Central Europe"]

Revision of the genus Lichtwardtia Enderlein in Southeast Asia, a tale of highly diverse male terminalia (Diptera, Dolichopodidae)
In the present paper the Oriental species of the genus Lichtwardtia Enderlein, 1912 are revised based on the type material of known species and new material from Singapore and Cambodia. A re-description and illustration of the holotype female of Lichtwardtia ziczac (Wiedemann, 1824) is given but since it has been described on the basis of a female only and its provenance India Orientalis is only a vague indication of its type locality, it is considered as a nomen dubium. All the species put as junior synonyms by Becker (1922) of L. ziczac are re-established to their original status with diagnosis: Lichtwardtia polychroma (Loew, 1864) and Lichtwardtia formosana Enderlein, 1912. However, L. coxalis is now also considered as a nomen dubium since the original description is too short to distinguish it from other species and the holotype female is lost. In addition a re-description and illustrations of L. hirsutiseta (de Meijere, 1916) are provided. Eight new species for science are described and illustrated: Lichtwardtia cambodiensis Tang & Grootaert, sp. n. (Cambodia), Lichtwardtia conspicabilis Tang & Grootaert, sp. n. (Cambodia), Lichtwardtia infuscata Tang & Grootaert, sp. n. (Cambodia), Lichtwardtia monstruosa Tang & Grootaert, sp. n. (Cambodia), Lichtwardtia nodulata Grootaert & Tang, sp. n. (Singapore), Lichtwardtia semakau Grootaert & Tang, sp. n. (Singapore) and Lichtwardtia singaporensis Grootaert & Tang, sp. n. (Singapore). Lichtwardtia zhangae Tang & Grootaert, sp. n. (Bali, Indonesia) is a new name for the species described by Zhang, Masunaga & Yang, 2009, as Lichtwardtia ziczac (Wiedemann, 1824). There are only a few good diagnostic non-genitalic characters for the species, but the male terminalia are distinctive, from simple to very complicated and armed structures. A key is given to the species of the Oriental region. Barcodes are provided for the Singaporean species. Although Lichtwardtia is a common genus in Southeast Asia it is generally not abundant locally. It is often found in anthropogenic disturbed habitats only. Four species are recorded from Singapore while eight species are sympatric and very abundant at the locality of Siem Reap in Cambodia.
["Lichtwardtia"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Checklist of known moth flies and sand flies (Diptera, Psychodidae) from Armenia and Azerbaijan
All credible and available published records for 17 species of moth flies known so far from Armenia (Phlebotominae 11 species, Psychodinae 6 species) and Azerbaijan (Phlebotominae 18 species) are summarized. The first records of 18 species of Psychodinae (tribes Mormiini, Paramormiini, Psychodini, Pericomaini) from Armenia and 6 new faunistic records (tribes Psychodini, Pericomaini) for the fauna of Azerbaijan are listed. The checklist of recent moth flies from Armenia includes now 35 species, and from Azerbaijan, 24 species.
["Caucasus"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Description of a new deep-water dogfish shark from Hawaii, with comments on the Squalus mitsukurii species complex in the West Pacific
Dogfish sharks of the genus Squalus are small, deep-water sharks with a slow rate of molecular evolution that has led to their designation as a series of species complexes, with low between-species diversity relative to other taxa. The largest of these complexes is named for the Shortspine spurdog (Squalus mitsukurii Jordan & Snyder), a medium-sized dogfish shark common to warm upper slope and seamount habitats, with a putative circumglobal distribution that has come under investigation recently due to geographic variation in morphology and genetic diversity. The Hawaiian population of Squalus mitsukurii was examined using both morphological and molecular analyses, putting this group in an evolutionary context with animals from the type population in Japan and closely-related congeners. External morphology differs significantly between the Hawaiian and Japanese S. mitsukurii, especially in dorsal fin size and relative interdorsal length, and molecular analysis of 1,311 base pairs of the mitochondrial genes ND2 and COI show significant, species-level divergence on par with other taxonomic studies of this genus. The dogfish shark in Hawaii represents a new species in the genus, and the name Squalus hawaiiensis, the Hawaiian spurdog, is designated after the type location.
["Chondrichthyes"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine animal studies overview", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

A revision of dragon millipedes IV: the new genus Spinaxytes, with the description of nine new species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Nine new species constituting the ‘spiny’ group of dragon millipedes are assigned to the new genus Spinaxytes Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, gen. n. Seven new species are described from Thailand: S. biloba Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n. and S. palmata Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n. from Surat Thani Province, S. hasta Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n. from Chumphon Province, S. krabiensis Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n. (type species) and S. sutchariti Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n. from Krabi Province, S. uncus Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., and S. macaca Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n. from Phang Nga Province; as well as one from Malaysia, S. tortioverpa Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., and one from Myanmar, S. efefi Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n. The new genus is endemic to South Myanmar, South Thailand, and Malaysia, and all new species are restricted to limestone habitats. All were exclusively found living on humid rock walls and/or inside small caves. Complete illustrations of external morphological characters, an identification key, and a distribution map are provided.
["Ruttapon Srisonchai", "Henrik Enghoff", "Natdanai Likhitrakarn", "Somsak Panha"]
["dragon millipede"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Description of three new species of Aposphragisma Thoma, 2014 (Araneae: Oonopidae) from Sumatra, Indonesia
Three species from the family Oonopidae are newly described from leaf litter habitats in Sumatra, Indonesia based on male and female morphology. All three species belong to the genus Aposphragisma Thoma, 2014: Aposphragisma globosum sp. n., Aposphragisma jambi sp. n., and Aposphragisma sumatra sp. n.

Descriptions of four new species of Bactrocera and new country records highlight the high biodiversity of fruit flies in Vietnam (Diptera, Tephritidae, Dacinae)
Recent snap-shot surveys for fruit flies in Vietnam in 2015 and 2017 using traps baited with the male Dacinae fruit fly lures methyl eugenol, cue-lure and zingerone, collected 56 species, including 11 new country records and another 11 undescribed species, four of which are described in this paper. This increases the number of described species known to occur in Vietnam from 78 to 93. Species accumulation curves, based on the Chao 2 mean estimate, suggest that we collected 60–85 % of the local fauna at the sites sampled, and that species diversity decreases with increasing latitude. The four new species are named: Bactrocera (Tetradacus) ernesti Leblanc & Doorenweerd sp. n., B. (Asiadacus) connecta Leblanc & Doorenweerd sp. n., B. (Parazeugodacus) clarifemur Leblanc & Doorenweerd sp. n., and B. (Bactrocera) adamantea Leblanc & Doorenweerd sp. n. In addition to morphological data COI DNA sequence data of both the COI-5P and COI-3P mitochondrial DNA gene regions is provided. Three of the four newly described species are morphologically and genetically easily distinguished from all other members of Dacini. Bactrocera clarifemur sp. n. is superficially similar to B. pendleburyi (Perkins) based on morphology, but there are several apomorphic characters to distinguish the two. Both COI and a segment of the nuclear gene Elongation Factor 1 alpha separate the two species as well.
["Dacini"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Composition and natural history of the snakes from the Parque Estadual da Serra do Papagaio, southern Minas Gerais, Serra da Mantiqueira, Brazil
The Serra da Mantiqueira is one of the least inventoried physiographic areas of southeastern Brazil. There is great potential for detection of endemic species for which little or nothing is known about basic aspects of natural history. The Parque Estadual da Serra do Papagaio (PESP) within the Serra da Mantiqueira is an area of extreme biological importance because it houses mixed formations of grasslands, ombrophilous forests, and enclaves of Araucaria forests (mixed ombrophilous forest). Currently, the mixed ombrophilous forest covers less than 5% of its original range and areas occupied by this forest type, and associated ecosystems constitute refuges, housing several endemic, high altitude species. Between September 2015 and April 2016, field samplings were performed in the PESP using four distinct methods. The objective was to determine the composition and natural history of snakes from an isolated, high altitude area of the Serra da Mantiqueira. In PESP and surrounding areas, 80 individuals representing 24 species, 19 genera, and three families were recorded. Data are presented on abundance, habitat, daily activity, diet, reproduction, and defense. Comparison of the PESP snake assemblage with 30 other Atlantic Forest areas in southeastern Brazil indicate the Serra da Mantiqueira presents particular characteristics regarding snake composition.
["Araucaria Forests"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Bird cestodes from Huinay (Comau Fjord), Chilean Patagonia: several species of the family Dilepididae (Platyhelminthes, Cyclophyllidea), with the erection of two new genera
Birds in the Huinay area, Los Lagos region, Chile, were studied for parasites. Here we report 2 new genera and species of the family Dilepididae (Cyclophyllidea) found in common local passerines: Janinellia peebeehi gen. n., sp. n. was found in Elaenia albiceps (Tyrannidae) and Huinaylepis elegans gen. n., sp. n. was found in Aphrastura spinicauda (Furnariidae). Other dilepidid parasites are reported for the first time from Xolmis pyrope (Tyrannidae) and from 2 species of Rhinocryptidae. Cotylorhipis sureshi Jadhav & Shinde, 1981 is considered a species inquirenda. The very high diversity and endemism of the observed cestode fauna in the Valdivian temperate rain forests is noted.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Helminth infection and control"]

Miscellanea Miridologica V. Taxonomy and chorology of new or little known taxa of Continental New Guinea and neighboring islands (Insecta, Heteroptera, Miridae)
Gressitocoris henryi (Deraeocorinae, Deraeocorini) is described as a new species on the basis of the female holotype from Syoubri vill(age), Arfak Mounts, Doberai Peninsula, Papua Barat, Indonesia. Additional data on distribution are provided for 17 species of Cylapinae, Deraeocorinae, Mirinae, Orthotylinae and Phylinae. Trigonotylus tenuis is cited for the first time from Papua New Guinea.
["Gressitocoris"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Life history of Mecidea major with descriptions of nymphal instars (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomidae)
The life history of the stink bug Mecidea major Sailer was studied in the southern half of New Mexico primarily from January 2005 through December 2007, and the nymphal instars were described. This species was active throughout the year as adults and nymphs, including the winter months. It occurred on various species of grasses during this time but primarily on Lehmann lovegrass, Eragrostis lehmanniana Nees; grama grasses, Bouteloua spp.; and tobosagrass, Pleuraphis mutica Buckley. The times of occurrence and abundance of the eggs, nymphs, and adults suggest this species is bivoltine with the possibility of a third generation. Instars can be distinguished by several morphological features including body size and presence and relative development of wing pads.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Turfgrass Adaptation and Management", "Plant Surface Properties and Treatments"]

Zygochrimnus henryi, a new genus and species from South America (Hemiptera, Lygaeoidea, Lygaeidae)
Zygochrimnus henryi, new genus and new species, is described from Ecuador and Peru, and included in the lygaeid subfamily Lygaeinae. Dorsal and lateral view photographs of Melanopleurus, Melanopleuroides, and Zygochrimnus are provided to allow comparison of the three closely related genera; photographs of the posterior view of the pygophore and the paramere of the new species are included.
["Insecta"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Henryhalticus philippinensis gen. et sp. n., a minute halticine from the Philippines (Insecta, Heteroptera, Miridae, Orthotylinae)
Henryhalticus philippinensis gen. et sp. n. is described from a single location in the Negros Oriental Province of the Philippines. The male and female genitalia are described and illustrated. On the basis of the genitalic characters, external morphology, and size and color, the new species is erected as a monotypic genus.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

Ilnacora henryi, a new species of plant bug from Mexico (Heteroptera, Miridae, Orthotylinae, Orthotylini)
A new species of the plant bug genus Ilnacora, tribe Orthotylini, is described from Mexico. This species, unlike any other in the genus, is characterized by a predominantly black coloration, the absence of black scale-like setae on the pronotal disk, and unique male genitalia.
["Ilnacora"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Review of the Neotropical genus Rhyncholepta with descriptions of three new species-group taxa (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomidae)
The genus Rhyncholepta Bergroth, 1911 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae: Pentatominae: Chlorocorini) is redescribed and five species-group taxa are recognized, keyed, their diagnostic characters illustrated, and the distribution reviewed. Among the five taxa, two species and one subspecies are recognized as new: Rhyncholepta grandicallosa grandicallosa Bergroth, 1911 (Brazil, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname), Rhyncholepta grandicallosa centroamericana subsp. n. (Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama), Rhyncholepta henryi sp. n. (French Guiana), Rhyncholepta meinanderi Becker & Grazia-Vieira, 1971 (Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru), and Rhyncholepta wheeleri sp. n. (Guyana). The structure of the male genital capsule was found to be the only reliable character for identifying species-group taxa. For this reason, a simultaneous application has been submitted to the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature to set aside the non-informative female lectotype of Rhyncholepta grandicallosa grandicallosa and replace it with the male neotype suggested herein. Based on the available label data and our field experience, most of the specimens were collected by various types of light traps in or near dense forests. Adults can be collected throughout the year.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

A new species of Carvalhomiris from Colombia with an assessment of its phylogenetic position (Heteroptera, Miridae, Orthotylinae)
Plant bugs, species of Miridae (Heteroptera), are not well known in the Neotropics, and Colombia is not an exception. Based on data from the available systematic catalog (Schuh 2002–2013) fewer than 150 species are recorded from the country, clearly an underestimation. Recent fieldwork has resulted in several new interesting taxa from Colombia. Carvalhomiris Maldonado & Ferreira, 1971, contains three described species from Colombia and Ecuador. From specimens collected in Jardín, Antioquia, Carvalhomiris henryi sp. n. is described. Images of the dorsal habitus and the male and female genitalia are provided. Based on morphological examination of the new species and published information, morphological characters were coded to construct a phylogenetic matrix for a cladistic analysis in which the phylogenetic position of the new species is assessed. Carvalhomiris henryi sp. n. is the northernmost species of the genus and noteworthy because it is the first record of any species of the genus in the Western Cordillera: all other species are known from the eastern flank of the Andes (Ecuador) or the Eastern Cordillera (Colombia). Natural history observations of the new species, including associations with composites (Asteraceae) are provided. It is speculated that the mirid might be predacious.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Claviplatys henryi, a new genus and species of Plataspidae from southern India (Hemiptera, Heteroptera)
Claviplatys gen. n. and its type species C. henryi sp. n. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Plataspidae: Plataspinae) are described from Kerala, India. The new genus is related to the Indomalayan genera Heterocrates Amyot & Serville, 1843, Cratoplatys Montandon, 1894, and Cronion Bergroth, 1891, but differs from them and all other plataspid genera by the peculiarly modified antenna. The morphological characters and systematic relationships of the above genera are discussed.
["Historical and Literary Studies", "Historical and Literary Analyses"]

A new species of Zetekella Drake from Ecuador with comments on Zetekella and Minitingis Barber (Heteroptera, Tingidae)
Zetekella and Minitingis (Heteroptera, Tingidae) are morphologically similar genera, each comprising two species. The latter was already considered a junior synonym of the former, but was revalidated on the basis of the number of cephalic spines, projections on the paranotal edge, length of the rostrum, presence of an abdominal groove and distributional pattern. Here, a new species of Zetekella is described from Ecuador, the diagnoses for both genera reassessed, new records for Z. pulla and Z. zeteki reported, and a key to the species of both genera provided.
["Zetekella Drake"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Henryognathus thomasi, a new genus and new species of Arctostaphylos-feeding plant bug from western North America (Miridae, Phylinae, Phylini)
Henryognathus, new genus, with the single included new species H. thomasi, is described from western North America. The taxon is recorded as feeding on species of Arctostaphylos (Ericaceae) in California and Arizona. Coloration and many morphological attributes are similar to species of Plagiognathus Fieber, but the structure of the male genitalia is distinctive.
["Arizona"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Synopsis of Schizopteridae (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Dipsocoromorpha) from the United States, with description of seven new species from the US and Mexico
Because species diversity of the small true bug family Schizopteridae is greatest in tropical and subtropical areas, it is not surprising that only four species have been described from the United States. As part of a larger project on the taxonomy and phylogenetics of Schizopteridae, 178 specimens from the United States were examined. This material contained representatives of the previously described species Glyptocombus saltator Heidemann, 1906, Corixidea major McAtee & Malloch, 1925, Nannocoris arenarius Blatchley, 1926, and Schizoptera bispina McAtee & Malloch, 1925, but also six undescribed species. These new taxa are described as Glyptocombus halbertae sp. n., Glyptocombus suteri sp. n., Nannocoris anophorus sp. n., Nannocoris brevipilus sp. n., Schizoptera (Cantharocoris) rileyisp. n., and Schizoptera (Schizoptera) henryisp. n. Habitus images and genitalic illustrations of the previously described and the new species are provided as well as a map showing distribution ranges of these species in the United States and Mexico. To provide a comprehensive treatment of the small genus Glyptocombus Heidemann, 1906, Glyptocombus mexicanus sp. n. is also described that, to our knowledge, occurs only in Mexico, and the female of one additional undescribed Glyptocombus species is documented from Mexico.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new Cervinotaptera species from northern Madagascar (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Aradidae)
A new species, Cervinotaptera tomhenryi, sp. n. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Aradidae: Mezirinae), from Montagne d’Ambre National Park in northern Madagascar is described and illustrated. The newly described species is compared with the only other known species, Cervinotaptera guilberti Heiss & Marchal, 2012.
["apterous"]

Review of the subgenus Plumiger of Myrmecophyes, with description of a new species (Heteroptera, Miridae, Halticini)
The Caucasian subgenus Plumiger Horváth, 1927 of the halticine genus Myrmecophyes Fieber, 1870 is revised. A key, updated diagnoses, and data on distribution are given for the subgenus and its four species, including M. tomi sp. n. (Georgia and Dagestan), and the previously unknown male of M. armeniacus Drapolyuk, 1989. Illustrations of the male and female genitalia, photographs of the dorsal habitus, and SEM micrographs of selected structures are provided for all species of the subgenus.
["Alpine meadows"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Macrotylus henryi, a new species of Pelargonium-feeding Cremnorrhinina from South Africa (Hemiptera, Miridae, Phylinae, Cremnorrhinini)
Macrotylus henryi is described as a new species from South Africa. This new taxon is recorded as feeding on species of Pelargonium (Geraniaceae) in the Western Cape. Documentation is provided in the form of diagnosis, description, habitus photographs, scanning electron micrographs, illustrations and images of genitalic structures, detailed distributional data, host plant information, and images of hosts and habitats. Morphological traits are similar to species of Macrotylus Fieber from the Northern Hemisphere, but coloration is substantially variable, and the structure of the male genitalia is distinctive.
["Geraniaceae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Research on scale insects"]

Psallus thomashenryi sp. n. and Psallus lucanicus from Turkey (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae)
Psallus (Psallus) thomashenryisp. n. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae: Phylinae: Phylini: Phylina) is described from southern Anatolia, Turkey. Illustrations of the dorsal habitus and male genitalia are provided. Its habitus is similar to other uniformly orange species of the subgenus Psallus Fieber, 1858, particularly P. asthenicus Seidenstücker, 1966 from which it can be easily distinguished by the combination of extremely small size (2.3 mm in both sexes) and different morphology of the vesica. Psallus (Psallus) lucanicus Wagner, 1968 is recorded for the first time from Turkey. Psallus (Psallus) aurora (Mulsant & Rey, 1852) is removed from the list of Turkish fauna based on a reevaluation of the voucher specimen. An updated checklist of the species of Psallus known to occur in Turkey is provided. The relevance of Anatolia and the Syro-anatolian-transcaucasian region in the Palearctic distribution of Psallus is discussed. The westernmost record of another mirid, Plagiognathus marivanensis Linnavuori, 2010, is provided.
["Hemiptera"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species and new records of Engytatus from the Hawaiian Islands (Heteroptera, Miridae)
Engytatus henryi sp. n. is described from the Waianae Mountains of Oahu. This new species feeds on Abutilon sandwicense (Malvaceae), an endangered understory plant in mesic forests. A dorsal habitus photograph and line drawings of key male genitalic structures are provided for E. henryi, accompanied by a photograph of the host plant. Cyrtopeltis kahakai Asquith is given a new generic assignment as Engytatus kahakai (Asquith) new combination, and additional locality and host-plant records are provided for four other Hawaiian endemic Engytatus species.
["Engytatus"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Taxonomic review of the bifenestratus species group of the genus Fulvius Stål with descriptions of two new species (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae, Cylapinae)
Two new species of the genus Fulvius Stål are described from the Philippines and Papua New Guinea. A taxonomic review of representatives of the F. bifenestratus species group, illustrations of the male genitalia, a color habitus image of each species, and a key to species of the group are provided.
["Australian Region"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

Two new deraeocorine plant bug species from Japan (Heteroptera, Miridae, Deraeocorinae)
Two new deraeocorine plant bug species, Fingulus henrytomi and Stethoconus takaii, are described from Japan. A color habitus image of live individuals and scanning electron micrographs are shown for each taxon to aid an unequivocal identification. A checklist and keys to species are also provided for Japanese Fingulus and Stethoconus.
["Deraeocorinae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

New genus and two new species of Hyaliodini from the Philippines (Miridae, Deraeocorinae)
Philicoris, a new genus of the mirid subfamily Deraeocorinae, tribe Hyaliodini, is described from the Philippines. New species Philicoris mayon sp. n. and Philicoris palali sp. n. from the island of Luzon are documented with photographic images of the dorsal habitus and male genital structures.
["Bicol Peninsula"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Overlooked gall-inducing moths revisited, with the description of Andescecidium parrai gen. et sp. n. and Oliera saizi sp. n. from Chile (Lepidoptera, Cecidosidae)
There are still many gall systems associated with larvae of Lepidoptera in which the true gall-inducers have not been identified to species. Reports on misidentification of gall inducers have been recurrent for these galls, particularly in complex gall-systems that may include inquilines, kleptoparasites, and cecidophages, among other feeding guilds such as predators and parasitoid wasps. Here we describe and illustrate the adults, larvae, pupae and galls, based on light and scanning microscopy, of Andescecidium parrai gen. et sp. n. and Oliera saizi sp. n., two sympatric cecidosid moths that are associated with Schinus polygamus (Cav.) Cabrera (Anacardiaceae) in central Chile. Adults, immatures, and galls of the former did not conform to any known cecidosid genus. Galls of A. parrai are external, spherical, and conspicuous, being known for more than one century. However, their induction has been mistakenly associated with either unidentified Coleoptera (original description) or Oliera argentinana Brèthes (recently), a distinct cecidosid species with distribution restricted to the eastern Andes. Galls of O. saizi had been undetected, as they are inconspicuous. They occur under the bark within swollen stems, and may occur on the same plant, adjacent to those of A. parrai. We also propose a time-calibrated phylogeny using sequences from mitochondrial and nuclear loci, including specimens of the new proposed taxa. Thus in addition to clarifying the taxonomy of the Chilean cecidosid species we also tested their monophyly in comparison to congeneric species and putative specimens of all genera of Neotropical and African cecidosids.
["Anacardiaceae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Australobius tracheoperspicuus sp. n., the first subterranean species of centipede from southern China (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
Australobius tracheoperspicuus sp. n. (Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae) was recently discovered from the Cave of the brickyard of Gaofeng village, in the Guizhou Province, southwest China, and it is described here. Morphologically the new species is similar to A. magnus (Trozina>, 1894) from north-western China. The new species can be easily distinguished from those by the trachea connected to the valve of the TIII clearly visible from the dorsal side, the absence of ocelli on each side of the cephalic plate, the DaC spine being only present on the XIIIth–XVth legs. Numbers of examined specimens, distribution and the main morphological characters and an identification key to the known Chinese species of genus Australobius based on adult specimens is given.
["Australobius"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Description of a new species of Dacus from Sri Lanka, and new country distribution records (Diptera, Tephritidae, Dacinae)
A fruit fly survey in the Sinharaja and Knuckles National Parks in Sri Lanka (2016), using traps baited with the male lures methyl eugenol, cue-lure, and zingerone, yielded 21 species of Dacini fruit flies. Of these, three species, viz. Bactrocera amarambalensis Drew, B. dongnaiae Drew & Romig, and B. rubigina (Wang & Zhao), are new country occurrence records, and Dacus (Mellesis) ancoralis Leblanc & Doorenweerd, sp. n. is described as a new species. The Sri Lankan Dacini fruit fly fauna is now comprised of 39 species.
["Bactrocera"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

First continental troglobiont Cylindroiulus millipede (Diplopoda, Julida, Julidae)
The new species of millipede Cylindroiulus villumi is described from a cave in the Estremenho karst massif in central Portugal. It is the first cave-adapted species of its genus with a strict subterranean life-style in continental Europe, and is the fifth blind species of the genus. The new species is illustrated with photographs and diagrammatic drawings. It is tentatively placed in the purely Iberian Cylindroiulus perforatus-group. The differences between the new species and its relatives are discussed, as well as its adaptations to a subterranean life-style.
["cave fauna"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Karst Systems and Hydrogeology", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Two new species of Satsuma A. Adams, 1868 from Taiwan (Pulmonata, Camaenidae)
Two new sinistral species of the genus Satsuma A. Adams, 1868, Satsuma squamigera sp. n. and Satsuma adiriensis sp. n., from southern Taiwan are described. Satsuma squamigera sp. n. is characterized by a microsculpture comprising coarse, irregularly-spaced ridges and dense, easily-dislodged triangular scales on its sinistral shell, an angulated periphery, and partly-opened umbilicus. This species inhabits secondary forests in lowland hills. Satsuma adiriensis sp. n. is characterized by a thin, fragile smooth shell with microsculpture of coarse, loose ridges, a rounded periphery, completely-opened umbilicus, and elongated penial verge formed by two main pilasters. This new species was collected in a mountainous, mid-elevation, broad-leafed forest.
["anatomy"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

Sparsorythus sescarorum, new species from Mindoro, Philippines (Ephemeroptera, Tricorythidae)
A new mayfly species, Sparsorythus sescarorum sp. n. (Tricorythidae) is described from Mindoro Island, Philippines. Nymphs are characterized by the combination of the following characters: compound eyes of approximately equal size in both sexes, shape and setation of legs, presence of rudimentary gills on abdominal segment VII, and some details of mouthparts. Male imagines are characterized by the coloration pattern of wings and details of genitalia. The developmental stages are matched by DNA barcodes.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of frog-biting midge from Papua New Guinea with a key to the described Corethrellidae of the Australopapuan region (Diptera, Corethrellidae, Corethrella)
Corethrella oppositophila Kvifte & Bernal, sp. n. is described based on one male and six female specimens collected at 2200 m a.s.l. on Mount Wilhelm, Papua New Guinea. The species is the fourth species of frog-biting midge described from this country and appears similar to Corethrella solomonis Belkin based on pigmentation of legs and abdominal tergites. It differs from C. solomonis, however, in the shape of female flagellomeres I–III, and in the thorax which has a dark brown vertical stripe. The new species is named for its sexually dimorphic flagellomeres, which are short and squat in the female and elongate in the male. These differences in morphological characters are discussed in light of the likely sexual differences in functional uses of the antennae, as males use them for mating only whereas females use them both for mating and prey location. An emended key is presented to the described Australopapuan species of Corethrellidae.
["Culicoidea"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

A broadly distributed species instead of an insular endemic? A new find of the poorly known Hainan gymnure (Mammalia, Lipotyphla)
The Hainan gymnure Neohylomys hainanensis (Mammalia, Lipotyphla), endemic to Hainan Island (China), is one of the rarest and least-known species within the family Galericidae. The IUCN Red List inferred it as an endangered species due to ongoing population decline caused by natural habitat loss. A recent biodiversity survey has revealed N. hainanensis to be rather common in northern Vietnam. This is the first record of the species outside Hainan Island. New data have allowed us to re-assess the conservation status of this poorly known mammal. The occurrence of N. hainanensis in mainland Vietnam also supports the hypothesis that Hainan Island could have been previously connected to Guangxi and northern Vietnam rather than to neighbouring Guangdong.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Fulfilling the taxonomic consequence after DNA Barcoding: Carychium panamaense sp. n. (Eupulmonata, Ellobioidea, Carychiidae) from Panama is described using computed tomographic (CT) imaging
Five years ago, the Panamanian evolutionary lineage (EL) C12 was uncovered along with four other ELs in an integrative phylogenetic investigation of worldwide Carychiidae. Since EL C12 lacked shell material post-molecular analysis to serve as a museum voucher, it remained undescribed. Now, after recent collection efforts of C12 and the congener, Carychium zarzaae Jochum & Weigand, 2017 at their original Panamanian sites, C12 is morphologically described and formally assigned the name, Carychium panamaense Jochum, sp. n. In sync with recent taxonomic treatment of the genus, computed tomography (CT) is used in this work to differentiate shells of C. panamaense sp. n. from geographically-proximal, Caribbean, North and Central American congeners. Recent material of topotypic Carychium jardineanum (Chitty, 1853) and undamaged C. zarzaae were additionally CT-scanned and assessed in the comparative analyses.
["microgastropoda"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Cnestus quadrispinosus, a new species of xyleborine ambrosia beetle from Thailand and Borneo (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini)
A new species, Cnestus quadrispinosus, is described from Thailand, Brunei Darussalam, and East Malaysia (Sabah). It is compared to three related species of Cnestus which lack a mycangial tuft of hairs on the pronotum, and have an impressed elytral declivity.

Description of three new species of Scolanthus (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Actiniaria, Edwardsiidae): first records of the genus from Japan
Scolanthus is one genus of Edwardsiidae, a speciose family of burrowing worm-like sea anemones characterized by lacking a physa-like aboral end and by possessing nemathybomes on the whole body except at the distal end. This genus has been recorded worldwide, but there have been no specimens collected from Japan. In this study, we discovered four Scolanthus species in Japan for the first time: Scolanthus armatus (Carlgren, 1931) and Scolanthus kopepe sp. n. from the Ogasawara Islands, Scolanthus ena sp. n. from Ena Bay, Kanagawa, and Scolanthus isei sp. n. from Sugashima Island, Mie.
["Aboral end"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new cryptic species of Anolis lizard from northwestern South America (Iguanidae, Dactyloinae)
A new species of Anolis lizard from the Andean slopes of southwestern Colombia and northwestern Ecuador, from between 1187 and 2353 m in elevation, is described. The new species can be distinguished from other Anolis in squamation, cranial osteology, hemipenial morphology, and nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. The new species is sister to Anolis aequatorialis, and it is suggested that previous records of A. aequatorialis in Colombia correspond to the new species described herein.
["Anolis dracula sp. n."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

An example of a possible leech-bryozoan association in freshwater
Associations of various invertebrate species with bryozoans and sponges are a well-known marine phenomenon but such epizooic communities are far less diverse in freshwater environments. Here an occurrence of numerous leeches Alboglossiphonia cf. papillosa (Braun, 1805), in interstitial spaces between zooids of a colony of the freshwater bryozoan species Plumatella aff. fungosa (Pallas, 1768) in Eastern Siberia is described. To the best of our knowledge, this record appears to be the first known example of a leech-bryozoan association, although such relationships deserve further research.
["Bryozoa"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Taxonomy of Baetis Leach in Israel (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
The taxonomy and systematics of the genus Baetis Leach (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) in Israel is clarified for the first time as part of an ongoing comprehensive survey of the Israeli mayfly fauna. Six clearly defined species are currently recognized in Israel, four of which are described here as new to science. The validity of all species is supported by a molecular analysis of the mitochondrial COI gene. A key for the identification of the Israeli species based on the nymphal stage is provided, as well as data on their distribution patterns and ecology. The local fauna represents four Palearctic species groups, three of which reach their limit of distribution range in Israel. Baetis species typically inhabit lotic, pristine habitats in northern Israel, with few exceptions for some species that can be found in the Dead Sea area or in ephemeral ponds.

Review of Brazilian jawfishes of the genus Opistognathus with descriptions of two new species (Teleostei, Opistognathidae)
A new species of jawfish, Opistognathus thionyi sp. n., is described from the Vitória-Trindade Chain and Fernando de Noronha Archipelago off Brazil, a disjunct distribution of ca. 1,800 km. Opistognathus thionyi and its allopatric Caribbean sister-species, Opistognathus maxillosus, both have a wide, fan-like upper margin of the subopercular flap and mostly over-lapping meristic data. The new species differs from O. maxillosus in having the darkest spot on the spinous dorsal fin, when present, between spines 2–5, versus always present between spines 6–9, the buccal area surrounding the esophageal opening pale versus very dark and fewer oblique scale rows in longitudinal series (45–52 vs. 69–85). A second new species, Opistognathus vicinus sp. n., known from Brazil’s mainland, has completely over-lapping meristic values with its allopatric Caribbean sister-species O. whitehursti, but differs in lacking vomerine teeth and a supramaxilla and retaining the juvenile color pattern of the latter species in adults. Diagnoses, photographs, an identification key, and distributional maps are given for all Brazilian species of Opistognathus. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit-I sequences indicates that specimens of the two allopatric pairs, O. thionyi – O. maxillosus and O. vicinus – O. whitehursti, form reciprocally monophyletic groups that differ from each other on average by 9 to 11%, with less than 1% average pair-wise genetic distance within-species. Similar patterns of phylogenetic structure were observed between reciprocally monophyletic (predominately allopatric) groups within nominal species of Opistognathus aurifrons, suggesting the possibility of at least two additional undescribed species from the Brazilian Province.
["Brazilian Province"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new genus of oonopid spiders from Myanmar (Araneae, Oonopidae)
A new genus, Kachinia Tong & Li, gen. n., including two new species, K. putao Tong & Li, sp. n., and K. mahmolae Tong & Li, sp. n., is described from Myanmar. The new genus belonging to the subfamily Oonopinae Simon, 1890, currently is the only member of the Brignolia-Opopaea clade with leg spines.

One new genus and three new species in the leafhopper tribe Coelidiini from the Neotropical Region (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Coelidiinae)
One new leafhopper genus Paracodilia gen. n. with one new species P. geniculata sp. n., and two other new species in different genera, Boliviela expanda and Armaturolidia symmetrica spp. n., are described in the tribe Coelidiini (Cicadellidae: Coelidiinae) from the Neotropical region. Photographs and illustrations are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Banana Cultivation and Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The first record of the anopsobiid genus Shikokuobius Shinohara, 1982 in continental Asia, with the description of a new species from the Altais, southwestern Siberia, Russia (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha, Anopsobiidae)
A new lithobiomorph species, Shikokuobius altaicus sp. n., is described from the Altai Mountains in southwestern Siberia, Russia. This is the first record of the genus Shikokuobius Shinohara, 1982 in continental Asia, all previous reports being from Japan. The distribution of Shikokuobius is mapped.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

A synopsis of Estonian myriapod fauna (Myriapoda: Chilopoda, Diplopoda, Symphyla and Pauropoda)
The data on Estonian Myriapoda are scattered in various publications and there has been no overview of the fauna up to the present. A critical summary of the previous information on Estonian Myriapoda is given, supplemented by new records and distribution maps. Altogether, 5784 specimens from 276 collecting sites were studied. To the hitherto recorded 14 centipede species are added Lithobius melanops, L. microps, Geophilus carpophagus, G. flavus, Strigamia transsilvanica and Stenotaenia linearis, a probably introduced species. Of the 27 published Estonian millipede species, the data on two species proved erroneous, and two new species were recorded (Craspedosoma raulinsii and Cylindroiulus britannicus). Two previously recorded millipede species – Brachyiulus pusillus and Mastigophorophyllon saxonicum – were not found in the recent samples, the latter may have become more rare or extinct. Pauropoda and Symphyla lack previous reliable records. Combined with published data, the number of myriapod species known from Estonia is now set at 52. Some changes in species distribution and frequencies were detected comparing the published data with new records. Some data about habitat preferences of the more common species are also given. The majority of species have a western Palaearctic distribution, while six species are at the northern limit of their ranges.
["check list"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

New Atanatolica species from Ecuador (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae)
Four new species of Atanatolica Mosely are described from Ecuador: A. andina sp. n., A. angulata sp. n., A. curvata sp. n., and A. decouxi sp. n. These species belong to the A. dominicana group and constitute new records of the genus from Chimborazo, Imbabura, and Napo Provinces. Additionally, A. andina sp. n. represents the highest elevation recorded for any species in the genus at 3900 m. Size class data are also presented suggesting continuous larval growth for the probable larva of A. decouxi sp. n., described and illustrated here. A new distribution record is provided for A. manabi from Carchi Province.

Anenteotermes cherubimi sp. n., a tiny dehiscent termite from Central Africa (Termitidae: Apicotermitinae)
Anenteotermes cherubimi Scheffrahn, sp. n. is described from workers and male imagos collected in Cameroon and Republic of the Congo. This is the smallest soldierless termite known from Africa. As with many soldierless and soil-feeding termite species, the enteric valve morphology is a robust and essential diagnostic character for An. cherubimi. Preserved workers display pre-autothysis morphology and the effects of abdominal autothysis.
["abdominal autothysis"]

Bryocyclops asetus sp. n. and the presence of Bryocyclops muscicola (Menzel, 1926) from Thailand (Crustacea, Copepoda, Cyclopoida, Cyclopidae)
The description of Bryocyclops asetus sp. n. and the record of B. muscicola (Menzel, 1926) from Thailand are presented. The new species is most similar to B. maewaensis Watiroyram, Brancelj & Sanoamuang, 2012, the cave-dwelling species described from northern and western Thailand. They share morphological characteristics, such as the free margin of the anal operculum which is ovated and serrate, the same setae and the spines formulae on P1–P4Exp-2 (setae: 5.5.5.4; spines: 3.3.3.3) and Enp-2 of P1–P2, P4 (setae formula 3.4.3) in both sexes. The new species is easily distinguished from B. maewaensis due to typical divergent caudal rami, the absence of coxal seta on P1, and the absence of blunt-tipped setae on P2–P3Exp-2. A dichotomous key to the species of Bryocyclops group I sensuLindberg (1953) is proposed.
["Caves"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Six new species and a new record of Linan Hlaváč in China, with a key to species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
Six new species of the genus Linan Hlaváč are described from central to southern China: L. arcitibialis sp. n. (Hubei), L. denticulatus sp. n. (Guizhou), L. divaricatus sp. n. (Jiangxi), L. geneolatus sp. n. (Guizhou), L. mangshanus sp. n. (Hunan), and L. mulunensis sp. n. (Guangxi), with illustrations of habitus and major diagnostic characters. Linan megalobus Yin & Li, originally described from Guizhou, is newly recorded in Hubei. An updated key to and a distributional map of all 16 known species are provided.

A revision of Lycinella Gorham, 1884 with the description of six new species (Coleoptera, Lycidae, Calopterini)
The Neotropical genus Lycinella Gorham, 1884 is revised. Lycinella opaca Gorham, 1884 and Lycinella parvula Gorham, 1884 are redescribed and illustrated. Six new species are described for the genus: Lycinella adamantis sp. n., L. hansoni sp. n., L. milleri sp. n., L. cidaoi sp. n., L. marshalli sp. n. and L. pugliesae sp. n.. Lycinella humeralis Pic, 1933 is moved to Ceratoprion humerale (Pic, 1933), comb. n. A key to the species of Lycinella, illustrations and a distribution map is provided.
["Elateroidea"]

Description of a new species of Mediotipula from Albania, with consideration of the eastern Mediterranean as a diversity hotspot (Diptera, Tipulidae)
A new species of the Tipula subgenus Mediotipula is described from the south-eastern part of Albania, south-eastern Europe. Morphologically, the new species is most similar to T. (M.) stigmatella Schummel, 1833, but differs mainly with respect to males, having a distinctly shaped posterior margin of tergite 9–10, a widened outer gonostylus and a series of details of the inner gonostylus (anterior end of the anterior arm, shape of the posterior arm), as well as having more bulbous and rounded hypogynal valves in the females. Further morphological differences of the male terminalia between allopatric populations of T. (M.) stigmatella in the Carpathians and Balkans, south-eastern Europe, are discussed.
["Craneflies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Survey research on the habitation and biological information of Callipogon relictus Semenov in Gwangneung forest, Korea and Ussurisky nature reserve, Russia (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Prioninae)
An investigation on the habitation of Callipogon relictus Semenov, 1899 in Gwangneung forest was carried out, where the Korea National Arboretum is located. In an investigation spanning the last eleven years (2007–2017), 22 emergence holes, nine pupal chambers, six adults, and two larvae of C. relictus were identified. In this study, biological information about habitation of C. relictus is provided by comparing and combining the results of this investigation with a survey conducted in Ussurisky Nature Reserve, Russia, in 2015. The distribution is also reviewed to include the Korean Peninsula and a new location of South Korea is added to the distribution for C. relictus.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Conservation Studies"]

Glaresis hespericula sp. n. from the Cape Verde Islands (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea, Glaresidae)
Glaresis hespericula sp. n. from the Cape Verde Islands (Boa Vista Island) is described and its diagnostic characters are illustrated. The new species is compared with similar and probably closely related species Glaresis walzlae Scholtz, 1983. The differential diagnosis is mainly based on the different shape of meso- and metatibiae.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Description and molecular analysis of Tylencholaimus helanensis sp. n. from China (Dorylaimida, Tylencholaimidea)
A new species, Tylencholaimus helanensis sp. n., extracted from the rhizosphere soil of unidentified grasses from Helan Mountain, Inner Mongolia, China was identified. The new species is characterized by having a body length of 0.93–1.07 mm with the lip region approximately one-quarter of the body diameter at the posterior end of the neck region wide; female didelphic-amphidelphic; pars proximalis vaginae violin-shaped. Males were not found. SEM observations of the new species were made and a phylogenetic analysis of both the 18S rDNA and the D2-D3 region of 28S rDNA is presented.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

New records of bees of the genus Sphecodes Latreille in the Palaearctic part of China (Hymenoptera, Halictidae)
The available information about the cleptoparastic bees of the genus Sphecodes in the Palaearctic part of China is summarized. Twenty-four species are currently known from this area including 16 newly recorded. Based on type specimens, new synonymies have been proposed for Sphecodes cristatus Hagens, 1882 = S. alfkeni Meyer, 1922, syn. n.; S. longulus Hagens, 1882 = S. subfasciatus Blüthgen, 1934, syn. n.; S. nippon Meyer, 1922 = S. kansuensis Blüthgen, 1934, syn. n.; Sphecodes pieli Cockerell, 1931 = S. orientalis Astafurova & Proshchalykin, 2014, syn. n. Lectotypes are designated for Sphecodes alfkeni Meyer, 1922 and S. pellucidus niveipennis Meyer, 1925. Illustrated keys to males and females of all species known from Palaearctic China and an updated checklist of the 33 Chinese species of Sphecodes are provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Unravelling the moons: review of the genera Paratetilla and Cinachyrella in the Indo-Pacific (Demospongiae, Tetractinellida, Tetillidae)
Paratetilla bacca (Selenka, 1867) and Cinachyrella australiensis (Carter, 1886) occur in a broad range of marine environments and are allegedly widely distributed species in the Indo-Pacific. We coin the term ‘moon sponges’ for these species as they are spherical in shape with numerous porocalices resembling the lunar surface. Both species have a complex taxonomic history with high synonymization, in particular by Burton (1934, 1959). An examination of the junior synonyms proposed by Burton (1934, 1959) was conducted to establish the validity of the names. More than 230 specimens from Naturalis Biodiversity Center were reviewed that belong to the genera Paratetilla and Cinachyrella from marine lakes, coral reefs, and mangroves in Indonesia. The aim of the current study was to untangle the taxonomic history, describe the collection of moon sponges from Indonesia, and develop a key. We extensively reviewed the taxonomic literature as well as holotypes of most of the species synonymized by Burton. The taxonomic history of Paratetilla spp. and Cinachyrella australiensis showed some cases of misinterpreted synonyms, misidentifications, and lack of detailed descriptions for some species. The conclusion of the revision is that there are three valid species of Paratetilla (P. arcifera, P. bacca, and P. corrugata) and four valid species of Cinachyrella (C. australiensis, C. porosa, C. paterifera, and C. schulzei) in Indonesia. This is furthermore corroborated by molecular work from previous studies. Paratetilla arcifera Wilson 1925 and C. porosa (Lendenfeld, 1888) are resurrected. A full review of taxonomic history is provided as well as a key for identification of moon sponges from Indonesia. All species are sympatric and we expect that there are undescribed species remaining within the Tetillidae from the Indo-Pacific. Our current review provides the framework from which to describe new species in the genera Paratetilla and Cinachyrella from the Indo-Pacific.
["anchialine systems"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Marine invertebrate biodiversity from the Argentine Sea, South Western Atlantic
The list of marine invertebrate biodiversity living in the southern tip of South America is compiled. In particular, the living invertebrate organisms, reported in the literature for the Argentine Sea, were checked and summarized covering more than 8,000 km of coastline and marine platform. After an exhaustive literature review, the available information of two centuries of scientific contributions is summarized. Thus, almost 3,100 valid species are currently recognized as living in the Argentine Sea. Part of this dataset was uploaded to the OBIS database, as a product of the Census of Marine Life-NaGISA project. A list of 3,064 valid species, grouped into 1,662 genera distributed in 808 families and 23 phyla, was assessed. The best represented taxa were Arthropoda and Mollusca, contributing approximately with the 50% of the mentioned species in the literature. Cumulative species curves were analyzed in order to estimate the percentage of marine invertebrate biodiversity that is currently known. However, no model fit to our data, showing that the recorded species represent less than 50% of the expected marine invertebrate biodiversity for the Argentine Sea. The great surface of the Argentine Marine Platform (6,581,500 km2) and the relative low effort in collecting and studying new species due to economical restrictions could explain the low fraction of described species. The training of new taxonomists, as well as, the support of projects that contribute to the knowledge of marine invertebrate biodiversity from South Western Atlantic is recommended.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Sixteen new species of the genus Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 from China, Myanmar, and Thailand (Sparassidae, Heteropodinae)
Sixteen new species of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 (Sparassidae, Heteropodinae) are described. Among them, eight species were collected from China: P. chayuensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂), P. conaensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂), P. medogensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂), P. nyingchiensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂), P. shacunensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂), P. shuo Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. yuanjiangensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♀) and P. zixiensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂); seven from Myanmar: P. colubrina Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. daxing Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂), P. gexiao Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂), P. putaoensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂), P. subbirmanica Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. titan Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. xia Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂); and one from Thailand: P. maeklongensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂). A distribution map of the new species is also provided.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Five new coexisting species of copepod crustaceans of the genus Spaniomolgus (Poecilostomatoida: Rhynchomolgidae), symbionts of the stony coral Stylophora pistillata (Scleractinia)
Spaniomolgus is a symbiotic genus of copepods of the poecilostomatoid family Rhynchomolgidae and is known to be associated with shallow-water reef-building hermatypic corals. Three species of this genus were previously found only in washings of Acropora and Stylophora in northern Madagascar. Four coral morphotypes of Stylophora pistillata (Pocilloporidae) were collected by SCUBA at 1 to 28 m depth in five sites in the Saudi Arabian Red Sea in 2013. Copepods found on these colonies were studied using light, confocal and scanning electron microscopy. Five new, and one known, species of the genus Spaniomolgus were discovered in washings and inside the galls of the hermatypic coral S. pistillata. The description of these new species (Spaniomolgus globus sp. n., S. stylophorus sp. n., S. dentatus sp. n., S. maculatus sp. n., and S. acutus sp. n.) and a key for the identification of all of its congeners is provided herein.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

New records of Tylokepon with the description of a new species (Epicaridea, Bopyridae, Keponinae)
The parasitic isopod genus Tylokepon is recorded for the first time from the Mariana Islands and Australia. Tylokepon marianensis sp. n. is described from the Mariana Islands, infesting Thusaenys irami (Laurie, 1906). The holotype female differs from other known Tylokepon females by the tri-lobed projection on pereomere 6, almost smooth lateral plates and pleopods, shape of oostegite 1, and widely opened brood pouch. The host is first recorded for bearing bopyrids. The new record of T. bonnieri Stebbing, 1904 from Australia on the type host extends the range of this species from China and India. A table of localities and hosts and a key to all species of Tylokepon are provided.
["Bopyridae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Stolonifera from shallow waters in the north-western Pacific: a description of a new genus and two new species within the Arulidae (Anthozoa, Octocorallia)
A new genus and two new species of stoloniferous octocorals (Alcyonacea) within the family Arulidae are described based on specimens collected from Okinawa (Japan), Palau and Dongsha Atoll (Taiwan). Hana gen. n. is erected within Arulidae. Hana hanagasa sp. n. is characterised by large spindle-like table-radiates and Hana hanataba sp. n. is characterised by having ornamented rods. The distinction of these new taxa is also supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses. The support values resulting from maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses for the genus Hana and new species H. hanagasa and H. hanataba are 82/1.0, 97/1.0 and 61/0.98, respectively. Hana hanagasa sp. n. and Hana hanataba sp. n. are the first arulid records for Okinawa, Palau, and Dongsha Atoll, and represent species of the second genus within the family Arulidae.
["Arulidae"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Revision of the lacewing genus Laccosmylus with two new species from the Middle Jurassic of China (Insecta, Neuroptera, Saucrosmylidae)
The genus Laccosmylus Ren & Yin, 2003 belonging to Saucrosmylidae was erected by using a single hind wing only. Based on new fossil material and re-examination of the type specimen, the diagnosis of the genus is emended with supplementary forewing characters, reported for the first time. In addition, two new species Laccosmylus cicatricatus sp. n. and Laccosmylus latizonus sp. n. are described.
["Daohugou"]

A review of the spider genus Sinanapis, with the description of a new species from Tibet (Araneae, Anapidae)
The genus Sinanapis Wunderlich & Song, 1995 is reviewed in this paper. The material of all three known species was reexamined and photographed resulting in a new species, Sinanapis medogense sp. n. (♂, ♀) being described from Tibet, China. A key is provided for the genus, as well as species diagnoses, illustrations, and distribution maps for all four species of Sinanapis.

Review of the bamboo-feeding leafhopper genus Neomohunia, with descriptions of two new species from China (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae, Mukariini)
The bamboo-feeding leafhopper genus Neomohunia Chen & Li, 2007, is reviewed to include three species: N. longispina sp. n., N. pyramida (Li & Chen, 1999), and N. sinuatipenis sp. n. The generic characteristics are redefined and the new species are described and illustrated. A key to species based on male genitalia is also provided.
["Homoptera"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Plant Molecular Biology Research"]

Bogidiella pingxiangensis, a new species of subterranean Amphipoda from southern China (Bogidiellidae)
A new species of subterranean amphipod, Bogidiella pingxiangensis Hou & Li, sp. n., is described from Xiongshizilong Cave in Pingxiang City, China. The new species is characterized by having the bases of pereopods III and V expanded; the inner ramus of pleopods I–III with one segment; the telson longer than wide and with the apical margin with a shallow U-shaped excavation. DNA barcode of the new species is documented as support of molecular differences between related species.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new species of Procamallanus Baylis, 1923 (Nematoda, Camallanidae) from Astronotus ocellatus (Agassiz, 1831) (Perciformes, Cichlidae) in Brazil
A new species of Procamallanus Baylis, 1923 was found as a parasite of the fish Astronotus ocellatus (Agassiz, 1831) from a lake in the Jardim Botânico Bosque Rodrigues Alves, Belém, Brazil. Procamallanus spiculastriatus sp. n. has a smooth buccal capsule and a well-developed basal ring that is armed with four sclerotized tooth-like structures. The male of the new species is similar to the two species that are known from Brazilian fish, P. peraccuratus Pinto, Fábio, Noronha & Rolas, 1976, and P. annipetterae Kohn & Fernandes, 1988, by the absence of the gubernaculum. It differs from these two by the morphology of the buccal capsule, the number are arrangement of the caudal papillae in males, the size and morphology of the spicules and the shape of the tail of both sexes. Procamallanus spiculastriatus sp. n. is the third species discovered in fish from Brazil. This finding extends the geographical distribution of the genus into the Brazilian Amazon.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A new feather mite species of the genus Trouessartia Canestrini, 1899 (Acarina, Trouessartiidae) – an integrative description (morphology and DNA barcoding data)
A new species of the feather mite genus Trouessartia (Trouessartiidae) is described from the Large NiltavaNiltava grandis (Blyth) (Passeriformes, Muscicapidae) in Northeast India (Meghalaya, Jaintia Hills, Shnongrim village). Trouessartia niltavae Constantinescu, sp. n. is morphologically closely related (no phylogenetic meaning) to T. bulligera Gaud, 1968 from Clytorhynchus hamlini (Mayr) (Passeriformes: Monarchidae), sharing in males a unique character within the genus, by having setae e on legs IV hemispheroid, with spine-shaped apex. Males of the new species have the prodorsal shield without ornamentation, the prohysteronotal shield and lobar shield connected, and the terminal cleft parallel sided. Females have the posterior half of the hysteronotal shield ornamented with large ovate lacunae in central area and small elliptical lacunae marginally. To the morphological description of this new feather mite species we added sequence data on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene fragment (COI). The phylogenetic relationships between Trouessartia species are briefly discussed.
["Feather mite"]

Three new species of the spider genus Asceua from Malaysia (Araneae, Zodariidae)
Three new species of the genus Asceua Thorell, 1887, from the natural forests of Malaysia, are described as Asceua bifurca sp. n. (♂♀), A. curva sp. n. (♂), and A. trimaculata sp. n. (♀). The genus Asceua is reported from Malaysia for the first time.

A new species of the ant genus Lasius Fabricius, 1804 from Crete (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Lasius tapinomoides sp. n. from Crete, Greece, is described and illustrated. It belongs to L. turcicus complex and is well characterized by very small body, extremely shallow metanotal groove and presence of suberect to erect setae on the apical part of scape. New records of Cretan members of the genus Lasius Fabricius, 1804 are provided, their checklist is updated, and the key to their determination is presented.
["Endemic species"]

The Oriental flat bug genus Libiocoris Kormilev, 1957 revisited: re-examination, synonymy, and description of a new genus (Heteroptera, Aradidae)
Re-examination of type specimens of Libiocoris Kormilev 1957, L. poecilus from New Guinea and other taxa assigned to this genus, the Chinese Libiocoris heissi Bai, Yang & Cai, 2006 and Libiocoris sinensis Bai, Yang & Cai, 2006 proved to be synonyms, thus L. heissi = L. sinensis syn. n. They are, however, different from Libiocoris Kormilev, 1957 to which they were originally assigned and a new genus Paralibiocoris gen. n. is proposed for them. Therefore Paralibiocoris heissi comb. n. = Libiocoris heissi Bai et al., 2006 = Libiocoris sinensis Bai et al., 2006, syn. n. From Hainan Island, China, the following new species, P. roundangulus sp. n., P. hainanensis sp. n., and P. limuensis sp. n., are described and figured and a key to species is provided.
["Aradidae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

First record of Scolopendrellopsis from China with the description of a new species (Myriapoda, Symphyla)
The genus Scolopendrellopsis Bagnall, 1913 is recorded from China for the first time and Scolopendrellopsis glabrus sp. n. is described and illustrated. The new species is characterized by the short central rod on head, third tergite complete, four kinds of sensory organs present on antenna, and the cerci rather short and covered with a low number of straight setae.
["antennal sensory organ"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new species of Hypoprepia from the mountains of central Arizona (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae, Lithosiini)
A new firefly-mimicking lichen moth of the genus Hypoprepia, H. lampyroides Palting & Ferguson, sp. n., is described from the mountains of east-central Arizona and the Sierra Madre Occidental of Mexico. Hypoprepia Hübner, 1831 is a North American genus of lithosiine tiger moths, previously consisting of five species: H. fucosa Hübner, 1831 and H. miniata (Kirby, 1837), both of eastern and central North America; H. cadaverosa Strecker, 1878 from the Rocky Mountains into New Mexico and west Texas; H. inculta H. Edwards, 1882, a widespread western USA species and H. muelleri Dyar, 1907 from the vicinity of Mexico City. The latter is herein synonymized under H. inculta (= H. muelleri syn. n.), resulting in the total number of taxa in the genus unchanged at five.
["Lithosiini"]

Two new species of the Neotropical Lophocampa hyalinipuncta (Rothschild) group (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae)
Two new species of Lophocampa Harris are described and illustrated, Lophocampa azuayensis sp. n., and Lophocampa carpishensis sp. n. Both new species were confused with Lophocampa hyalinipuncta (Rothschild, 1909), and a comparative diagnosis is provided.
["Arctiinae"]

Three species in one: a revision of Clemensia albata Packard (Erebidae, Arctiinae, Lithosiini)
Clemensia albata Packard, previously thought to be a single, widely distributed North American species, is here shown to consist of three distinct, primarily parapatric species: Clemensia albata Packard, C. umbrata Packard, stat. rev., and Clemensia ochreata Schmidt & Sullivan, sp. n. Adults and genitalic structures of the three species are illustrated.
["algivory"]

Description of three new species of Apatelodidae from the southern neotropical region (Lepidoptera, Bombycoidea)
Three new species of Apatelodidae are described from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay: Apatelodes navarroi sp. n., Apatelodes chalupae sp. n., and Apatelodes ulfi sp. n., and are figured with their genitalia. Detailed examination of primary types leads to the establishment of a new synonymy: A. florisa Schaus, 1929 = A. schreiteri Schaus, 1924, syn. n., and a revised status for another Apatelodidae species previously misplaced in the Bombycidae: Apatelodes brunnea (Dognin, 1916), comb. n.
["Apatelodes"]

Six new species and one new subspecies of noctuid moths from western United States of America and Mexico (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
Six new species and one new subspecies of Noctuidae are described from western United States of America and Baja California, Mexico: Dolocucullia poolei Crabo & Hammond, sp. n. (Cuculliinae), Plagiomimicus yakama Crabo & Wikle, sp. n., Plagiomimicus yakama mojave Wikle & Crabo, ssp. n., Plagiomimicus incomitatus Mustelin, sp. n. (Amphipyrinae), Sympistis ferrirena Crabo, sp. n. (Oncocnemidinae), Aseptis harpi Crabo & Mustelin, sp. n., and Hypotrix lactomellis Wikle & Crabo, sp. n. (Noctuinae). The adults and genitalia of these species are described, illustrated, and compared to similar related moths. The larvae of the Plagiomimicus tepperi species group, unknown previously, are reported to feed on several species of Brickellia Ell. (Asteraceae). The early stages of Plagiomimicus yakama mojave are described and late instars are illustrated.
["Amphipyrinae"]

A review of Leucosigma Druce, 1908: a newly discovered case of fern-feeding and descriptions of three new species (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
Chytonidia Schaus, 1914, is one of two noctuine genera originally described by Schaus that includes species recently found to feed on fern foliage (Pteridophyta) as larvae. By examining museum specimens, including type material and reared specimens accompanied by DNA barcode data, Chytonidia Schaus, 1914, syn. n. is synonymized with Leucosigma Druce, 1908, all currently recognized species are re-described, including males of three species described from female holotypes, and three new species are described: Leucosigma solisae Goldstein, sp. n., Leucosigma poolei Goldstein, sp. n., and L. schausi Goldstein, sp. n. Images of adults and, where available, larvae as well as dissected genitalia are presented, with a key to adults.
["Chytonidia"]

A revision of Admetovis Grote, with the description of a new species from western North America (Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Hadenini)
The genus Admetovis Grote is revised. Admetovis icarus sp. n. is described from the mountains of western North America. A lectotype of Admetovis oxymorus Grote is designated. Illustrations of the adults, male and female genitalia, and distribution maps are presented, together with an identification key. The classification of the genus is reviewed resulting in its reassignment to the tribe Hadenini from Orthosiini.

Review of Lophomyra Schaus, 1911 (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae): a new combination and re-descriptions of species newly associated with ferns (Polypodiaceae)
Lophomyra Schaus, 1911 (Noctuidae) is the smaller of two noctuid genera originally described by Schaus that include species recently associated with ferns (Pteridophyta), in this case Polypodiaceae, as larval food plants. Following an examination of type material and reared specimens accompanied by DNA barcode data, Lophomyra is revised to include L. tacita Schaus, 1911, L. santista (Jones, 1914), and L. commixta (Schaus, 1914), comb. n., the last of which is transferred from Chytonidia Schaus, 1914 (= Leucosigma Druce, 1908). Lophomyra is characterized based on adult and larval morphology, especially that of the male genitalia. Structures associated with the valvae are discussed with reference to dissected and in situ images. Larvae of L. commixta and L. tacita are described from images, and the recorded food plants of both species are discussed in the context of known New World noctuid pteridivores.
["Costa Rica"]

A new species of Sympistis Hübner from Sapelo Island, Georgia, USA (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Oncocnemidinae)
A new species of the Sympistis badistriga species-group, Sympistis eleaner Adams, sp. n. is described from Sapelo Island, a back-barrier island in coastal Georgia, United States of America. Adults and genitalia of S. eleaner are illustrated, in addition to adults of similar species in the Sympistis badistriga species-group. The composition of this species-group is discussed.
["Atlantic coastal fauna"]

A new genus and three new species of noctuid moths from western United States of America and Mexico (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Eriopygini)
The genus Rhabdorthodes gen. n. is described for three previously unnamed noctuid moths from the mountains of south-western United States and Mexico. It is assigned to subfamily Noctuinae, tribe Eriopygini. Rhabdorthodes pattersoni sp. n. from the United States and Rhabdorthodes durango sp. n. and Rhabdorthodes petersoni sp. n. from Mexico are described. These moths are small, dull gray brown, and lack highly diagnostic wing markings, but are distinctive structurally. The adults and genitalia of both sexes are illustrated and distribution maps are presented. Two species eponyms honor persons who have facilitated the study and enjoyment of moths in North America by creating moth-specific websites.

A new species of Euchaetes Harris from southern Arizona (Erebidae, Arctiinae)
Euchaetes nancyae sp. n. is described from southeastern Arizona. Although superficially similar to species of Pygarctia Grote, structural and molecular variation shows it to be most closely related to Euchaetes helena (Cassino). Adults, genitalic structure, eggs, and first instar larvae are described and illustrated. The larval host plant remains unknown. Euchaetes helena is confirmed as occurring in Mexico.
["Euchaetes"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

First records of Gnathia Leach, 1814 and Tachaea Schioedte & Meinert, 1879 from South Korea, with descriptions of two new species (Isopoda, Cymothoida, Cymothooidea)
Two new species of cymothoid isopods, Gnathia koreana sp. n. and Tachaea koreaensis sp. n., are described from South Korea. The genera Gnathia Leach, 1814 and Tachaea Schioedte & Meinert, 1879 are recorded for the first time in South Korea. Gnathia koreana sp. n. is distinguished from its congeners by having the smooth dorsal surface of the pereon, the strongly ridged unornamented paraocular ornamentation, the strong bifid mediofrontal process, and the serrated superior frontolateral process. Tachaea koreaensis sp. n. is distinguished from its congeners by having the expanded propodus with serrated inferior margins in pereopods 1–3, the propodus with serrated inferodistal margins in pereopods 4–7, one seta on the apical lobe of the maxilla, and ten robust setae on the posterior margin of the pleotelson.
["Corallanidae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

New records of Niceforo’s big-eared bat, Trinycteris nicefori (Sanborn, 1949) (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae), from the state of Maranhão, Brazil
Niceforo’s big-eared bat, Trinycteris nicefori (Sanborn, 1949), is a monotypic species which has been recorded in a number of Brazilian states, but has a disjunct distribution in this country. This study presents the first record of T. nicefori in the Brazilian state of Maranhão. The specimens were collected in the municipalities of Godofredo Viana and Cândido Mendes, in fragments of the Amazon forest. One male (forearm: 38.00 mm, weight: 6 g) and one female (39.68 mm, 8 g) specimens were collected. The specimens presented chestnut-colored fur, and a chin with a pair of dermal pads arranged in a V-shape, without a central papilla. The COI gene sequences were plotted in the BOLD Systems platform, which confirmed the morphological identification of the species, with a 99.1% similarity in the male, and 99.4% in the female to existing sequences. This record extends the known distribution of T. nicefori in Brazil by approximately 310 km to the most eastern part of the Amazon Biome.
["Bats"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

A revision of the genus Eurhoptus LeConte, 1876 (Curculionidae, Cryptorhynchinae) of America north of Mexico
The genus Eurhoptus LeConte, 1876 is revised for America north of Mexico. Eight species are recognized including E. pyriformis LeConte, 1876, E. sordidus (LeConte, 1876), E. curtus (Hamilton, 1893), resurrected name, and five new species as follows: E. rileyi new species (type locality, Texas, Hidalgo County, Bentsen Rio Grande State Park), E. imbricatus new species (type locality, Texas, Bandera County, Lost Maples State Natural Area), E. cariniventris new species (type locality, Texas, Bandera County, Lost Maples State Natural Area), E. occidentalis new species (type locality, Texas, Brewster County, Big Bend National Park), and E. aenigmaticus new species (type locality, Alabama, Winston County, Bankhead National Forest). Descriptions or redescriptions, and images of taxonomically important structures are presented for all species. A key to the eight species is included.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Roisinitermes ebogoensis gen. & sp. n., an outstanding drywood termite with snapping soldiers from Cameroon (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae)
Termites have developed a wide array of defensive mechanisms. One of them is the mandibulate soldier caste that crushes or pierces their enemies. However, in several lineages of Termitinae, soldiers have long and slender mandibles that cannot bite but, instead, snap and deliver powerful strikes to their opponents. Here, we use morphological and molecular evidence to describe Roisinitermes ebogoensis Scheffrahn, gen. & sp. n. from near Mbalmayo, Cameroon. Soldiers of R. ebogoensis are unique among all other kalotermitid soldiers in that they possess snapping mandibles. The imago of R. ebogoensis is also easily distinguished from all other Kalotermitidae by the lack of ocelli. Our study reveals a new case of parallel evolution of snapping mandibles in termites, a complex apparatus responsible of one of the fastest biological acceleration rates measured to date.
["Ethiopian Region"]

Tosanoides annepatrice, a new basslet from deep coral reefs in Micronesia (Perciformes, Percoidei, Serranidae)
The new species Tosanoides annepatrice sp. n. is described from four specimens collected at depths of 115–148 m near Palau and Pohnpei in Micronesia. It differs from the other three species of this genus in life color and in certain morphological characters, such as body depth, snout length, anterior three dorsal-fin spine lengths, caudal-fin length, and other characters. There are also genetic differences from the other four species of Tosanoides (d ≈ 0.04–0.12 in mtDNA cytochrome oxidase I). This species is presently known only from Palau and Pohnpei within Micronesia, but it likely occurs elsewhere throughout the tropical western Pacific.
["closed-circuit rebreather"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Two new species of genus Limnias from Thailand, with keys to congeners (Rotifera, Gnesiotrocha)
Two new species and two morphological variant taxa of sessile rotifers found during a survey of Thai rotifers are reported upon. Living specimens were collected and identified from twelve sampling sites. The specimens were photographed, and prepared for SEMs of dorsal plates and trophi. Two new species of genus Limnias are recognized. Limnias lenis sp. n. possesses a corona with a relatively shallow ventral sinus, and a dorsal plate without any projection, whereas Limnias novemceras sp. n. carries a corona with a deep and wide ventral sinus, and a dorsal plate with nine projections. Two morphological variants of Limnias melicerta are discussed, which are designated as L. melicerta SH and L. melicerta LH on the basis of the length of the horns on their dorsal plates. Moreover, both a dichotomous key and a formula key are provide including all Limnias species known to date.
["corona"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Ecological diversity of a snake assemblage from the Atlantic Forest at the south coast of Paraíba, northeast Brazil
Despite an increase in studies focusing on snake ecology and composition in the northeastern Atlantic Forest, several poorly studied sites and environments remain. The aim of this study was to assess species richness and natural history attributes of the snakes of an assemblage in the Restinga, Tabuleiro and Forest environments of the Atlantic Forest of the south coast of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. A total of 151 individuals of 27 species, 23 genera, and six families of snakes were found. The most effective sampling methods were time-constrained searches and incidental encounters. Species sampled most frequently were the blindsnake Epictia borapeliotes, the Boa Constrictor Boa constrictor, the Brown Vinesnake Oxybelis aeneus, and the Brazilian False Coral Snake Oxyrhopus trigeminus. The snake fauna is characterized mainly by terrestrial species found in open-area environments of Restinga and Tabuleiro, and with most species feeding on amphibians and small mammals. The rarefaction curve did not reach the asymptote and new species should be recorded for south coast of Paraíba in future studies. Despite the richness and composition of snakes of the south coast being similar to other areas in the state, there is a lack of some species typically linked to forests, and this is probably because of the high level of deforestation that the south area of the state has suffered.
["inventory"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Tosanoides aphrodite, a new species from mesophotic coral ecosystems of St. Paul’s Rocks, Mid Atlantic Ridge (Perciformes, Serranidae, Anthiadinae)
During a recent expedition to St. Paul’s Rocks, Atlantic Ocean, a distinctive and previously unknown species of Anthiadinae was collected at a depth of 120 m. A genetic analysis indicated the undescribed species is a member of the genus Tosanoides, which was only known to occur in the Pacific Ocean. This new taxon is distinguishable from all other Tosanoides species by the following combination of characters: soft dorsal fin rays 15–16; anal fin rays 9; ventral scale rows 9–10; last dorsal spine the longest (instead first through fourth). Here Tosanoides aphrodite sp. n. is described and illustrated, only known from St. Paul’s Rocks.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Cryptic diversity in Andrognathus corticarius Cope, 1869 and description of a new Andrognathus species from New Mexico (Diplopoda, Platydesmida, Andrognathidae)
Andrognathus is a genus of small, thin-bodied millipedes found in deciduous forests of North America. Poorly understood, these organisms inhabit decaying wood and have morphologically conserved and difficult-to-identify sexual characters that have limited study historically. Recent use of scanning electron microscopy has uncovered variation in male genitalia that was previously unknown in the genus. The distribution of Andrognathus and the extent of this variability across the continent, however, were undocumented, and a wealth of natural history collections remained uncatalogued. Here a new species of Andrognathus is described from New Mexico, Andrognathus grubbsi sp. n., natural history collections are utilized to create a comprehensive map of the genus, and a neotype established for the type species, Andrognathus corticarius Cope, 1869. Analysis of the cytochrome oxidase I gene (COI) for A. corticarius was completed for the type series and individuals across the species distribution, but little variation was found. Andrognathus grubbsi sp. n. joins A. corticarius and A. hoffmani Shear & Marek, 2009 as the only members of the genus.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new genus and species of clingfish from the Rangitāhua Kermadec Islands of New Zealand (Teleostei, Gobiesocidae)
Flexor incus, new genus and species, is described from 15 specimens (14.0–27.2 mm SL) collected from shallow (0–9 meters) intertidal and sub-tidal waters of the Rangitāhua Kermadec Islands, New Zealand. The new taxon is distinguished from all other members of the Gobiesocidae by a combination of characters, including a heterodont dentition comprising both conical and distinct incisiviform teeth that are laterally compressed with a strongly recurved cusp, an oval-shaped opening between premaxillae, a double adhesive disc with a well-developed articulation between basipterygia and ventral postcleithra, and many reductions in the cephalic lateral line canal system. The new taxon is tentatively placed within the subfamily Diplocrepinae but shares a number of characteristics of the oral jaws and the adhesive disc skeleton with certain members of the Aspasminae and Diademichthyinae.
["Acanthomorpha"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview"]

A new species and a key to the species of Corticarina from Guatemala (Coleoptera, Latridiidae)
A new species of Corticarina Reitter, 1881 (Coleoptera: Latridiidae), Corticarina oscargloriorum sp. n. from Guatemala is described and illustrated. The differential diagnosis is established in relation to a group of other species of the genus.
["Corticarina oscargloriorum sp. n."]

Trichopolydesmidae from Cameroon, 1: The genus Hemisphaeroparia Schubart, 1955. With a genus-level reclassification of Afrotropical genera of the family (Diplopoda, Polydesmida)
In addition to one of the two species of Trichopolydesmidae hitherto recorded from Cameroon, Polydesmus integratus Porat, 1894, which is revised based on type material and shown to represent the genus Hemisphaeroparia Schubart, 1955, comb. n., 12 new species from the same genus are described from that country: H. zamakoe sp. n., H. bangoulap sp. n., H. spiniger sp. n., H. ongot sp. n., H. digitifer sp. n., H. parva sp. n., H. fusca sp. n., H. bonakanda sp. n., H. bamboutos sp. n., H. subfalcata sp. n., H. falcata sp. n. and H. mouanko sp. n. A key to all 13 species (of Hemisphaeroparia) known to occur in Cameroon is presented, and their distributions are mapped. All ten recognizable (but excluding two dubious) Afrotropical genera or subgenera of Trichopolydesmidae are rediagnosed and reclassified, based both on their type species and a presumed scenario of gonopodal evolution. As a result, the number of accepted genera is reduced to five: Sphaeroparia Attems, 1909 (= Megaloparia Brolemann, 1920), Physetoparia Brolemann, 1920 (= Elgonicola Attems, 1939, syn. n., = Mabocus Chamberlin, 1951, syn. n., = Heterosphaeroparia Schubart, 1955, syn. n.}, Eburodesmus Schubart, 1955, Mecistoparia Brolemann, 1926 (= Dendrobrachypus Verhoeff, 1941, syn. n.), and Hemisphaeroparia.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Ericaphis voegtlini, a new, unusual aphid species from the USA (Hemiptera, Aphididae)
Ericaphis voegtlini sp. n. living on Chamaebatia foliolosa (Rosaceae) in California is described based on apterous and alate viviparous females. The new species differs from all other species of the genus Ericaphis Börner, 1939 in several important morphological characters including very long and rigid dorsal setae and distinctly swollen siphunculi with clearly visible polygonal reticulation.
["Chamaebatia"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Aegyptobia and redescription of Tenuipalpus szarvasensis Bozai, 1970 (Acari, Tenuipalpidae)
A new tenuipalpid mite species, Aegyptobia bozaii sp. n., is described from Central-Hungary on leaves of the endemic Hungarian statice Limonium gmelinii subsp. hungaricum (Plumbaginaceae) based on females, nymphs and larva. The previously described endemic flat mite, Tenuipalpus szarvasensis Bozai, 1970 is redescribed. This species had been treated as a junior synonym of Tenuipalpus cheladzeae Gomelauri, 1960, but our new investigation shows that the two species are not the same.
["tenuipalpids"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Empidinae (Diptera, Empididae) from Bulgaria with new records and descriptions of three new species
Empis (Leptempis) rhodopensis Barták sp. n., Hilara bulgarica Barták sp. n., and Rhamphomyia (Amydroneura) stojanovae Barták sp. n. are described from Bulgaria. Altogether 32 species of Empididae are first reported from Bulgaria.
["Empis"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Two new species of Lithobius on Qinghai-Tibetan plateau identified from morphology and COI sequences (Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae)
Lithobius (Ezembius) longibasitarsussp. n. and Lithobius (Ezembius) datongensissp. n. (Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae), recently discovered from Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China, are described. A key to the species of the subgenus Ezembius in China is presented. The partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I barcoding gene was amplified and sequenced for eight individuals of the two new species and the dataset was used for molecular phylogenetic analysis and genetic distance determination. Both morphology and molecular data show that the specimens examined should be referred to Lithobius (Ezembius).
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Rediscovery of Lobonychium palpiplus Roewer, 1938 (Opiliones, Laniatores, Epedanidae) in Sabah, Malaysia
Lobonychium palpiplus Roewer, 1938, originally reported from Indonesian Borneo, is redescribed based on the specimens from Malaysia. The genitalia of this species are described for the first time and a new genital terminology is proposed. The rediscovery expands the known distribution of the species to Malaysian Borneo.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Purealus beckelorum, a new genus and species of cleonine weevil from western Texas and eastern New Mexico (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Lixinae, Cleonini)
The new genus Purealus Anderson (type species, Purealus beckelorum gen n. et sp. n., type locality: McKenzie Lake, Gaines County, Texas) is described to accommodate a new species of cleonine weevil from western Texas and eastern New Mexico. Habitus images and images of taxonomically significant structures are presented. Purealus appears to be unique within Cleonini in the distinctly tumescent and asperate base of elytral interval 3, and widely separated procoxae, two characters apparently not shared with any other world Cleonini. The species cannot be placed in either Apleurus or Scaphomorphus due to a combination of characters in part shared by each genus and the lack of characters used to define the monophyly of each genus. Coding of the character states and addition to the analysis presented in a recent comprehensive analysis of world Cleonini did not provide any significant information on phylogenetic affinities. No information on plant associations is available; most specimens have been collected walking on the ground in winter months in arid habitats.

Taxonomic study of the Pinelema bailongensis species group with descriptions of six new species from China (Araneae, Telemidae)
The Pinelema bailongensis Wang & Li, 2012 species group of the spider family Telemidae Fage, 1913 from Guangxi and Guizhou, China is revised. Previously, this species group contained two species: P. bailongensis and P. xiushuiensis Wang & Li, 2016. In this study, four species are transferred from Telema Simon, 1882 to Pinelema Wang & Li, 2012, and treated as members of the P. bailongensis species group. They are P. cordata (Wang & Li, 2010) comb. n., P. liangxi (Zhu & Chen, 2002) comb. n., P. strentarsi (Lin & Li, 2010) comb. n. and P. zhewang (Chen & Zhu, 2009) comb. n. Additionally, six new species belonging to the species group are described: P. cheni Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. huoyan Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. lizhuang Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. wangshang Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. wenyang Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀) and P. yunchuni Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀). A key to males is provided.
["Haplogynae"]

Stigmella multispicata Rociene. & Stonis, an Asian leafminer on Siberian elm, now widespread in eastern North America (Lepidoptera, Nepticulidae)
Stigmella multispicata Rocienė & Stonis, 2014, previously known from the single male holotype from Primorye, Russia, is reported as a new invasive species mining leaves of Siberian elm, Ulmus pumila L., in eastern North America. Both adults and leafmines have been reported from many sites as unidentified Nepticulidae since 2010. Crucial for the identification was a match of the DNA barcode of a single larva collected on Ulmus pumila in Beijing with adults from North America. The single larva constitutes a new record for China. Stigmella multispicata is closely related to the European S. ulmivora (Fologne, 1860), feeding likewise on Ulmus, but differs in details of external morphology and genitalia, particularly in the female, where S. multispicata has a remarkable elongated narrow ovipositor, suitable for oviposition in underside hairy leaf vein axils, where all mines start. In North America S. multispicata is the only Ulmus-feeding nepticulid with green larvae. Currently the species is known from USA: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Wisconsin, and Canada: Ontario and Québec. In Sagaponack, on Long Island, New York, larvae have been reported to occur en masse on Siberian elms from at least two sites. The current distribution could be reconstructed thanks also to many online photographs from observation websites. The species is redescribed, with the first descriptions of female, larva, and leafmine, and compared with S. ulmivora, which is fully redescribed. The two native North American nepticulid Ulmus leafminers, S. apicialbella (Chambers, 1873) and Ectoedemia ulmella (Braun, 1912), are diagnosed and new provincial and state records are provided. A key to linear mines on Ulmus in North America is provided. We suspect that trade of live plants through nurseries played a role in the sudden spread of this invasive species.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

First report of partial albinism in the blue lobster Panulirus inflatus (Bouvier, 1895) from the Mexican Pacific (Crustacea, Decapoda, Palinuridae)
The first case of partial albinism registered in the Mexican Pacific by the blue lobster Panulirus inflatus is presented. The specimen was collected on the southern coast of Jalisco know as Punta “El Estrecho”. It constitutes one of the few registered cases of albinism in invertebrates from the Eastern Tropical Pacific.
["crustaceans"]

Morphological and molecular (28S rRNA) data of monogeneans (Platyhelminthes) infecting the gill lamellae of marine fishes in the Campeche Bank, southwest Gulf of Mexico
During the examination of 913 fish specimens belonging to four families in the Campeche Bank (Gulf of Mexico), 23 gill ectoparasitic monogenean species were found, which belong to three families: Dactylogyridae, Microcotylidae and Diclidophoridae. The species Euryhaliotrema amydrum, E. carbuncularium, E. dunlapae, E. fajeravilae, E. fastigatum, E. longibaculum, E. paracanthi, E. tubocirrus, Haliotrematoides cornigerum, H. gracilihamus, H. heteracantha, H. longihamus, H. magnigastrohamus, H. striatohamus, Hamatopeduncularia bagre, Neotetraonchus bravohollisae, and N. felis (all Dactylogyridae) were found on the hosts Lutjanus synagris, L. griseus, Ariopsis felis, Bagre marinus, Archosargus rhomboidalis, and Haemulon plumieri. Additionally, Microcotyle archosargi, Microcotyle sp., and Microcotyloides incisa (all Microcotylidae) were found on L. griseus and A. rhomboidalis; finally, Choricotyle sp. 1, Choricotyle sp. 2, and Choricotyle sp. 3 (all Diclidophoridae) were found on H. plumieri. The prevalence, abundance, mean intensity of infection, and supplementary taxonomic revisions for all monogeneans found are provided. Partial sequences of the 28S rRNA gene were also obtained for monogeneans of ariid, sparid, and haemulid host fishes to explore their systematic position within the Monogenea. New locality and host records for some previously described species of Euryhaliotrema, Hamatopeduncularia, Microcotyle, and Choricotyle from lutjanid, ariid, sparid, and haemulid hosts were reported. The present study adds evidence supporting the interoceanic occurrence of the same monogenean species (on lutjanids) on the west-east Atlantic and Pacific Oceans (= amphiamerican species). As previously suggested, there are at least, two possibilities to explain that parasite distribution: differentiation of morphological features in these monogeneans have resulted in only slight to insignificant morphological changes developing over the extended period of 3.2 mya (when the Isthmus of Panama was closing) and/or speciation is only evident at molecular level.
["Ariidae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Parabreviscolex niepini Xi et al., 2018 (Cestoda, Caryophyllidea)
Parabreviscolex niepini is a recently described caryophyllidean monozoic tapeworm from schizothoracine fish on the Tibetan Plateau. In the present study, the complete mitochondrial genome of P. niepini is determined for the first time. The mitogenome is 15,034 bp in length with an A+T content of 59.6%, and consists of 12 protein-encoding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes, and two non-coding regions. The secondary structure of tRNAs exhibit the conventional cloverleaf structure, except for trnS1(AGN) and trnR, which lack DHU arms. The anti-codon of trnS1(AGN) in the mitogenome of P. niepini is TCT. The two major non-coding regions, 567 bp and 1428 bp in size, are located between trnL2 and cox2, trnG and cox3, respectively. The gene order of P. niepini shows a consistent pattern with other caryophyllideans. Phylogenetic analysis based on mitogenomic data indicates that P. niepini has a close evolutionary relationship with tapeworms Breviscolex orientalis and Atractolytocestus huronensis.
["unsegmented cestode"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

New jumping spiders from the alpine meadows of the Valley of Flowers, western Himalayas, India (Araneae, Salticidae)
Two new jumping spider species: Nandicius vallisflorum sp. n., (♀) and Pellenes himalaya sp. n. (♂, ♀), are diagnosed, described and illustrated in detail. The specimens were collected from the Valley of Flowers, western Himalayas, Uttarakhand State of India.
["Nandicius"]

Youtuus, a new bamboo-feeding genus of the tribe Augilini with two new species from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Caliscelidae)
A new bamboo-feeding planthopper genus Youtuus Chen & Gong, gen. n. with two new species Y. erythrus Gong, Yang & Chen, sp. n. and Y. strigatus Gong, Yang & Chen, sp. n. (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Caliscelidae: Ommatidiotinae: Augilini), are described and illustrated from China. Keys to the genera of Augilini and the species of Youtuus Chen & Gong, gen. n. are given.
["bamboo"]

Two new species of Hydromedusae from Queensland, Australia (Hydrozoa, Leptothecata)
Two new species of small hydromedusae were found during routine monitoring in coastal waters of eastern Australia and are here described. The first, Melicertissa antrichardsoni Uribe-Palomino & Gershwin, sp. n., from Moreton Bay, Queensland, is placed in its genus because of its possession of both cordyli and eight-fold symmetry. It differs from its congeners in two conspicuous features: firstly, having small, oval split gonads located adjacent to the base of the stomach, and secondly, in its extremely small size at maturity (2 mm bell diameter, compared to the next smallest species at 7 mm). Moreover, it possesses a unique combination of other characters. This species appears to be endemic to Moreton Bay. The second new species, Paralovenia yongalensis Gershwin & Uribe-Palomino, sp. n., from the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, is placed in its genus because of its two opposite normal tentacles and two opposite marginal clusters of cirri. It differs from its congeners primarily in a more rounded body than the others; the shape, length, and position of its short spindle-shaped, distal gonads; possession of subumbrellar nematocyst clusters; and possession of statocysts. These discoveries bring the total number of Melicertissa species to eight and the total number of Paralovenia species to three. The discovery of these two micromedusae underscores the need for further examination of the often-ignored minute and/or gelatinous fauna.
["coastal ecology"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Toxins and Detection Methods"]

Revision of the Polynema dikobraz species-group with description of a remarkable new species from South Africa (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Mymaridae)
A new Afrotropical species of Polynema Haliday, 1833 (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), Polynema (Polynema) sagittaria van Noort & Triapitsyn, sp. n., is described and illustrated based on specimens collected in the Cape Floral region in south-western South Africa. This species is morphologically closely related to the recently described Polynema (Polynema) dikobraz Triapitsyn, 2017 from Madagascar, both species possessing enlarged spine-like microtrichia on the fore wing disc that are unique among all the known world fairyflies. This new species belongs to the informal dikobraz species-group of the nominate subgenus of Polynema, which previously was only known from Madagascar. In addition, P. sagittaria has the ovipositor extending ventrally under the mesosoma to well in front of the head, in a bow-like curve, and housed in a narrow, anterior elongation of the metasoma, the basal sac. Occurrence and possible significance of such a bizarre ovipositor in other Mymaridae is discussed. All images and online keys are available on www.waspweb.org
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

Biology of Eumacronychia Townsend, with a redescription of E. persolla Reinhard, 1965 (Diptera, Sarcophagidae)
The biology of Eumacronychia Townsend is reviewed and Eumacronychia persolla Reinhard, 1965 is redescribed. The male and female habitus as well as the male terminalia are documented with focus-stacked photographs, and features separating this species from all other species of Eumacronychia are discussed.
["Miltogramminae"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Dermatological diseases and infestations"]

On the molecular and morphological evolution of continental and insular Cryptorchestia species, with an additional description of C. garbinii (Talitridae)
Semi-terrestrial talitrid amphipods of the genus Cryptorchestia (sensu Lowry and Fanini 2013) associated with freshwater-soaked leaf litter were known to occur in inland lakes of Turkey and at the shores of the Black Sea. Before 2013 they had been reported as Orchestia cavimana and later as Cryptorchestia cavimana. In our phylogenetic tree, inferred from a mitochondrial and nuclear gene dataset (cytochrome oxidase I (COI), and histone H3 (H3), respectively), we show that these Turkish populations belong to Cryptochestia garbinii, a common and widespread continental species, which is closely related to C. cavimana (endemic to Cyprus) and C. ruffoi (endemic to Rhodes). For the Turkish and European populations of C. garbinii, we found low levels of both genetic differentiation and morphological variation, and an age-related size variability (increasing at each moult) of the small lobe in the male gnathopod I merus, the main taxonomically diagnostic character for Cryptorchestia. A mainland (C. garbinii) versus insular isolation and in situ speciation (C. cavimana, and C. ruffoi) in the two east Mediterranean islands of Cyprus and Rhodes is discussed in relation to terrestrial Cryptorchestia species endemic to North East Atlantic volcanic islands (Azores, Canary Islands, and Madeira). The incorporation of five Mediterranean and Atlantic Orchestia species in the Bayesian analysis of the two genes (COI, and H3) indicated that both genera Orchestia and Cryptorchestia are not monophyletic.
["Bayesian analysis"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

New chrysilline and aelurilline jumping spiders from Pakistan (Araneae, Salticidae)
Epocilla pakhtunkhwa Ali & Maddison, sp. n. and Stenaelurillus mardanicus Ali & Maddison, sp. n. are described from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan. Noted for the first time is the presence in Epocilla of a small bump just anterior to the fovea of the carapace, of unknown functional significance, otherwise known in the unrelated Opisthoncus L. Koch, 1880 and Cocalus Pocock, 1897. In addition, the female of Menemerus nigli Wesołowska & Freudenschuss, 2012 is described for the first time.
["Aelurillina"]

The genus Mercuria Boeters, 1971 in Morocco: first molecular phylogeny of the genus and description of two new species (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea, Hydrobiidae)
The western Palearctic freshwater snail genus Mercuria (Caenogastropoda: Hydrobiidae) comprises 26 species primarily distributed in lowland localities of Western Europe and North Africa. Although this genus in North Africa has received considerable attention in terms of species discoveries through morphological descriptions, its distribution and phylogenetic patterns remain unknown. Based on morphological and mitochondrial DNA (mtCOI) evidence, this study examines the three Mercuria species (M. bakeri, M. tingitana, and M. targouasensis) from Morocco identified so far. Besides expanding on information regarding the anatomy of these species, two new species (M. midarensis sp. n. and M. tensiftensis sp. n.) are described for this region and phylogenetic relationships inferred between these species and the European M. emiliana and M. similis. All Moroccan and European species were recovered as independent entities according to these phylogenetic inferences (uncorrected p-distances 2.8–8.5%) and DNA barcode data. Moroccan Mercuria species clustered with M. emiliana from Spain, although basal relationships within this clade were not well supported. Given that factors such as the season when specimens are collected, habitat type, and parasites could be responsible for the remarkable intraspecific variation observed in shell and penis morphology, it is proposed that the most efficient approach to delimit and identify Mercuria species is to combine morphological descriptions with genetic data.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Four new species of Lesticus (Carabidae, Pterostichinae) from China and supplementary comments on the genus
The genus Lesticus in China was studied, with descriptions of four new species: L. auripennis sp. n. (Guangdong: Nanling, 24.93°N, 112.09°E); L. bii sp. n. (Xizang: Mêdog, 29.32°N, 95.34°E); L. xiaodongi sp. n. (Yunnan: Yingjiang, 24.71°N, 97.58°E); and L. violaceous sp. n. (Yunnan: Yingjiang, 24.71°N, 97.58°E). One new synonym is proposed: L. dubius Dubault, Lassalle & Roux, is a junior synonym of L. solidus Roux & Shi. An improved key and a catalogue accommodating all known Chinese Lesticus species are provided. Species relationships and the evolution of endophallic and other characters are preliminarily discussed.
["Trigonostomina"]

Description of a Cretaceous amber fossil putatively of the tribe Coprophilini (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Oxytelinae)
An unusual and well-preserved fossil staphylinid is described and figured from a single specimen in Upper Cretaceous Burmese amber. Gollandia planata gen. et sp. n. is tentatively placed in the extant oxyteline tribe Coprophilini, although it lacks a few characteristic features of present-day members of the group, likely indicating it to be either a stem group of the tribe or prove to be distinct pending future discoveries. The discovery of this genus suggests that early oxytelines were more morphologically diverse during the Cretaceous and their evolutionary history was more complicated than previously documented. Tribal placement as regards fossil oxyteline taxa is discussed.
["Burmese amber"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

New record of Epistylis hentscheli (Ciliophora, Peritrichia) as an epibiont of Procambarus (Austrocambarus) sp. (Crustacea, Decapoda) in Chiapas, Mexico
Epibiosis is very common between crustaceans and ciliates where the calcified surface of the crustacean body provides a suitable substrate for ciliate colonization. The aim of this contribution is to provide data about a new record between the epistylid ciliate Epistylis hentscheli Kahl, 1935, and the crayfish Procambarus (Austrocambarus) sp. The distribution of the epistylid on the basibiont body and its cellular/colonial characteristics were analyzed. Procambarus (Austrocambarus) sp. harbored colonies of E. hentscheli only on the pereiopods. This is the first record of this peritrich ciliate as an epibiont on Crustacea, having been previously found on algae and fish.
["ciliate"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Five new species of Drosophila guarani group from the Andes of southern Ecuador (Diptera, Drosophilidae)
Five species of the genus Drosophila are described and illustrated: D. zamorana sp. n., D. quinarensis sp. n., D. sachapuyu sp. n., D. caxarumi sp. n., and D. misi sp. n. from the cloud forests of the Podocarpus National Park, in the southern Ecuadorian Andes. Flies were captured using plastic bottles containing pieces of fermented banana with yeast. All the species were found to belong to the Drosophila guarani species-group.
["Drosophila"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new species of the family Nippobodidae (Acari, Oribatida), including a description of the leg-folding process
Nippobodes panemorfis sp. n. and Leobodes trypasis sp. n. are described by means of optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and compared to other congeners. The leg-folding process is described and illustrated. Nippobodes panemorfis sp. n. is characterised by interlocking, double hook-shaped, posterior prodorsal condyle and anterior zone humeral apophysis; posterior prodorsal depression present. Tutorium a large lamina defining a pocket-shaped structure; bothridial opening ovoid, situated at the bottom of a U-shaped structure; deep, rounded-ovoid anterior notogastral depression present; ten pairs of notogastral setae; c setae looped, dentate, sharply tipped. Marginal setae h3, p3 on large promontories, followed by deep V-shaped incision; notogaster completely surrounded by circumgastric depression; lateral genital zone with locking structure constituted by longitudinal cuticular elevation, with promontories and a parallel furrow involved in the leg-folding process; genital plate smaller than anal plate. Leobodes trypasis sp. n. is characterised by: the presence of posterior prodorsal depression and anterior notogastral depression; bridge-shaped anterior prodorsal condyles; heart-shaped frontal prodorsal orifice; ten pairs of notogastral setae; posterior prodorsal condyle and humeral condyle interlocked, forming double hook-like structure; circumgastric furrow surrounding entire notogaster; setae lp, h2, h1 situated on shallow medial furrow; notogastral setae lm, lp, h1, h2 medially aligned; p1, p2, p3, h3 marginally situated. Legs I-IV, tutorium, pedotectum I, and pedotectum II involved in leg folding which is inferred to be a protection mechanism.
["Leg-folding process"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Taxonomic review of genus Microrhagus Dejean, 1833 from Korea, with description of a new species (Coleoptera, Eucnemidae, Melasinae, Dirhagini)
The genus Microrhagus Dejean, 1833 is reviewed with four species from Korea: Microrhagus foveolatus (Fleutiaux, 1923), Microrhagus jejuensis sp. n., Microrhagus mystagogus (Fleutiaux, 1923), and Microrhagus ramosus (Fleutiaux, 1902). Herein, all Korean Microrhagus species are redescribed. A key to species of Korean Microrhagus and photographs of the diagnostic characters are also provided.
["Eucnemidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Taxonomic review of the genus Dirrhagofarsus in Korea (Coleoptera, Eucnemidae)
The genus Dirrhagofarsus is firstly recorded from Korea with three species: Dirrhagofarsus lewisi (Fleutiaux, 1900), Dirrhagofarsus modestus (Fleutiaux, 1923), and Dirrhagofarsus unicolor (Hisamatsu, 1960). A key to Korean species of Dirrhagofarsus, with diagnoses, redescriptions, and photographs of important structures is provided. In this work, Dirrhagus modestus f. unicolor Hisamatsu, 1960 is regarded as a valid species, Dirrhagofarsus unicolor (Hisamatsu, 1960), comb. n.
["Dirrhagofarsus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

New record of Microtus mystacinus in eastern Kazakhstan: phylogeographical considerations
The Eastern European vole (Microtus mystacinus) is an arvicoline rodent distributed across northern and eastern Europe, the Balkans, Turkey, Armenia, NW and N Iran, Russia as far east as the Tobol River in W Siberia, and W and N Kazakhstan. We present a novel records from eastern Kazakhstan (the village of Dzhambul – 49°14'21.3"N, 86°18'29.9"E and the village of Sekisovka – 50°21'9.18"N, 82°35'46.5"E) based on mtDNA and we discuss implications of this findings on biogeography of eastern Kazakhstan populations. Marine Isotope Stage 11 is considered an important period for the diversification of the arvalis species group. In the context of our study, it is important to analyse genetically discontinuous Siberian populations, and the current distribution of Microtus mystacinus in new localities in eastern Kazakhstan.
["Microtus"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

A new species of the genus Euxaldar Fennah, 1978 from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Issidae)
A new species Euxaldar guangxiensis sp. n. is described and illustrated from southeastern China. The generic characteristics are redefined. A checklist and key to the species of the genus Euxaldar are provided.
["Fulgoromorpha"]

New molecular sequences for two genera of marine planarians facilitate determination of their position in the phylogenetic tree, with new records for two species (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Maricola)
For the first time, molecular sequences of the 18S ribosomal DNA were generated for representatives of the genera Obrimoposthia Sluys & Ball, 1989 and Paucumara Sluys, 1989 of the suborder of the marine triclads, or Maricola, by analyzing the species Obrimoposthia wandeli (Hallez, 1906) and Paucumara trigonocephala (Ijima & Kaburaki, 1916). On the basis of this molecular data the phylogenetic position of these two genera in the phylogenetic tree of the Maricola was determined and compared with their position in the phylogeny based on the analysis of anatomical features. New records for these two species are documented and their taxonomic status is determined on the basis of histological studies.
["Antarctica"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

On a new commensal species of Aliaporcellana from the western Pacific (Crustacea, Decapoda, Porcellanidae)
Aliaporcellana spongicola sp. n. from the Philippines and Indonesia is described. The new species has been frequently photographed by divers because of its striking coloration, but has not been described yet. Aliaporcellana spongicola sp. n. is in fact a widespread commensal of barrel sponges of the genus Xestospongia and other sponges. Morphological characters and ecological information of all described species of Aliaporcellana, and of other porcellanids associated with sponges and soft corals, suggest that all members of the genus are commensals, and that similar morphological adaptations to dwelling on these hosts have evolved independently in different evolutionary lines within Porcellanidae.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

A new genus of Ptiloneuridae, its position within the family, and descriptions of five species (Psocodea, ‘Psocoptera’)
Upon examination of ptiloneurid specimens recently collected in forests of natural areas and Natural National Parks in Colombia, ten males and seven females were found that represent five species of an undescribed ptiloneurid genus. It differs from the other genera in the family by characters of the wings, hypandrium, phallosome, epiproct, female gonapophyses, and sternum IX. An identification key to the males of the genera of Ptiloneuridae, and a key to the species of the new genus are presented. A test on the validity and monophyly of the new genus, and its position within the family was also conducted.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New species and a new genus of Philopotamidae from the Andes of Bolivia and Ecuador (Insecta, Trichoptera)
A new genus and species of Philopotamidae (Philopotaminae), Aymaradella boliviana, is described from the Bolivian Andes of South America. The new genus differs from other Philopotaminae by the loss of 2A vein in the hind wing and, in the male genitalia, the synscleritous tergum and sternum of segment VIII, and the elongate sclerotized dorsal processes of segment VIII. The first record of Hydrobiosella (Philopotaminae) in the New World is also provided with a new species from the Andes of Ecuador, Hydrobiosella andina. In addition, a new species of the Neotropical genus Chimarrhodella (Chimarrinae), Chimarrhodella choco, is described from the Choco-Andean region of Ecuador, and Chimarrhodella peruviana (Ross) is recorded from Ecuador for the first time. Lastly, Wormaldia imbrialis (Philopotaminae), new species, is described, also from the Ecuadorian Choco.

Review of the ant genus Technomyrmex Mayr, 1872 in the Arabian Peninsula (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The taxonomy of the dolichoderine ants of the genus Technomyrmex Mayr, 1872 is revised for the Arabian Peninsula. Six species are treated, T. albipes (F. Smith, 1861), T. difficilis Forel, 1892, T. briani Sharaf, 2009, T. vexatus (Santschi, 1919), T. montaseri Sharaf, Collingwood & Aldawood, 2011, and T. setosus Collingwood, 1985. The successful tramp species T. difficilis Forel, 1892 is recorded for the first time from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Yemen, representing new records for the Palearctic Region. Technomyrmex vexatus (Santschi, 1919) is a new species record for Yemen. The queen caste of the rare endemic species, T. briani Sharaf, 2009 is described for the first time. A neotype for KSA endemic T. setosus Collingwood 1985 is designated based on a specimen collected from the type locality, the Asir Mountains, KSA, including new information on habitats and distribution. A male cast of Technomyrmex, possibly of T. setosus, is also described. An illustrated key based on the worker caste of the Arabian species of Technomyrmex is given. New geographical records and a distribution map for the treated species are presented.
["Afrotropical Region"]

A new earless species of Poyntonophrynus (Anura, Bufonidae) from the Serra da Neve Inselberg, Namibe Province, Angola
African pygmy toads of the genus Poyntonophrynus are some of the least known species of African toads. The genus comprises ten recognized species endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, five of which are restricted to southwestern Africa. Recent field research in Angola provided new material for three species of Poyntonophrynus, including a morphologically distinctive population from the Serra da Neve Inselberg. Based on a combination of external morphology, high-resolution computed tomography scanning, and molecular phylogenetic analysis, the Serra da Neve population is described as new species that is nested within the genus. The most striking character that differentiates the newly described species from its congeners is the lack of a tympanic middle ear, a condition common in the family Bufonidae, but so far not known for Poyntonophrynus. The description of this new species from southwestern Angola reinforces the biogeographic importance of the region and further suggests that southwestern Africa is the cradle of diversity for this genus.

A new rare species of the Rhadinaea decorata group from the Sierra Madre del Sur of Guerrero, Mexico (Squamata, Colubridae)
A new species of the Rhadinaea decorata group is described based on two specimens from the Sierra Madre del Sur, Guerrero, Mexico. The new species differs from all other members of the genus Rhadinaea by having: eight supralabials; 149–151 (male) ventrals; 63–77 (male) subcaudals; two large pale nuchal blotches, forming an incomplete collar that occupies two scales laterally and is bissected along the dorsal midline; a postocular pale marking consisting of a well-defined, narrow line beginning behind the upper posterior margin of the eye and extending posteriorly nearly horizontally until connecting with the nuchal blotches; and the dark ground color of the flanks extending to the lateral portion of the ventrals. The large nuchal blotches distinguish the new species from the other members of the R. decorata group, except for R. cuneata and some individuals of R. hesperia (pale nuchal marking one-scale wide in R. marcellae, absent in the other species). The condition of the postocular pale marking distinguishes it from R. cuneata and R. hesperia (postocular pale marking wedge-shaped in R. cuneata, not connected with the pale post-cephalic markings in R. hesperia). Furthermore, the number of subcaudals and the coloration of the lateral portion of the ventrals distinguish it from R. omiltemana and R. taeniata, the remaining congeners found in Guerrero (85–90 in males of R. omiltemana and 91–121 in R. taeniata; dark color of the flanks not reaching ventrals in the former species, occasionally and faintly in R. taeniata). Additionally, a new combination for R. stadelmani is proposed. The new species is the first described in the genus Rhadinaea in more than 40 years.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

First report of Trichogramma danausicida and Trichogramma cacaeciae reared from Thaumatotibia leucotreta eggs in Israel
The egg parasitpoids Trichogramma danausicida (Nagaraja) and Trichogramma cacaeciae (Marchal) (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae), are reported for the first time in Israel. Moreover, our discovery of T. danausicida is the first report of this parasitoid species outside of India. The occurrence of those trichogrammatids was first discovered and documented in May 2016 during a survey of egg parasitoids of the False codling moth Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). The field survey was conducted on castor bean fruits (Ricinus communis) in the Israeli central coastal plain. The identity of the parasitoids was revealed by means of sequencing a portion of the cytochrome oxidase I gene (COI) of the studied parasitoids.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Hippocampus japapigu, a new species of pygmy seahorse from Japan, with a redescription of H. pontohi (Teleostei, Syngnathidae)
The pygmy seahorse Hippocampus japapigu sp. n. is described based on three specimens, 13.9–16.3 mm SL, collected from a mixed soft coral and algae reef at 11 m depth at Hachijo-jima Island, Izu Islands, Japan. The new taxon shares morphological synapomorphies with the previously described central Indo-Pacific pygmy seahorses, H. colemani, H. pontohi, H. satomiae, and H. waleananus, including extremely small size, 12 trunk rings, strongly raised continuous cleithral ring, snout spine, large spine on the eighth lateral and fifth and 12 superior trunk ridges, respectively, and unusual wing-like-protrusions immediately posterior to the head. Hippocampus japapigu sp. n. can be distinguished from all congeners by the following combination of features in the anterodorsal area of the trunk: bilaterally paired wing-like protrusions formed by a single pair of large, truncate spines projecting dorsolaterad on the first superior trunk ridge, followed by a unique elevated dorsal ridge formed by triangular bony mounds dorsally on the second to fourth superior trunk ridges. In contrast, H. pontohi possesses a pair of large truncate spines projecting strongly laterad on both the first and second superior trunk ridges followed by flat surfaces dorsally on the third and fourth superior trunk rings. The new species can be further differentiated by genetic divergence from H. pontohi (an uncorrected p-distance of 10.1% in the mitochondrial COI gene) and a striking reticulated white and brown lattice pattern on the head, trunk, and tail. Hippocampus japapigu sp. n. represents the fifth species of pygmy seahorse recorded in Japan.
["Acanthomorpha"]
["Aquatic life and conservation", "Coastal Management and Development", "Marine and Coastal Ecosystems"]

First survey of Interstitial molluscs from Cayo Nuevo, Campeche Bank, Gulf of Mexico
Six sediment samples weighing between 224–735 g were collected in June of 2016 from Cayo Nuevo reef, located at the Campeche Bank, southern Gulf of Mexico. Samples were collected by SCUBA diving, from were two stations at depths of 7.6 and 18.2 m. Sediment was sieved and molluscs (adults and micromolluscs ≤ 10 mm) were sorted, examined, and identified to the lowest taxonomic level. A total of 1,347 specimens was found, of which 224 shells were dead and 1,123 were alive. Thirty-four families, 53 genera, and 67 species were identified. The most abundant families were Chamidae and Arcidae for the Bivalvia class, and Caecidae and Tornidae for the Gastropoda class. The vertical range of Bentharca sp. was extended.
["baseline"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Phylogeny of hydrothermal vent Iphionidae, with the description of a new species (Aphroditiformia, Annelida)
The scale-worm family Iphionidae consists of four genera. Of these, Thermiphione has two accepted species, both native to hydrothermal vents in the Pacific Ocean; T. fijiensis Miura, 1994 (West Pacific) and T. tufari Hartmann-Schröder, 1992 (East Pacific Rise). Iphionella is also known from the Pacific, and has two recognized species; Iphionella risensis Pettibone, 1986 (East Pacific Rise, hydrothermal vents) and I. philippinensis Pettibone, 1986 (West Pacific, deep sea). In this study, phylogenetic analyses of Iphionidae from various hydrothermal vent systems of the Pacific Ocean were conducted utilizing morphology and mitochondrial (COI and 16S rRNA) and nuclear (18S and 28S rRNA) genes. The results revealed a new iphionid species, described here as Thermiphione rapanui sp. n. The analyses also demonstrated the paraphyly of Thermiphione, requiring Iphionella risensis to be referred to the genus, as Thermiphione risensis (Pettibone, 1986).
["East Pacific Rise"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Revision of the World species of the genus Chromoteleia Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae, Scelioninae)
The genus Chromoteleia Ashmead is revised. Twenty-seven species are recognized, of which six species are redescribed: C. congoana (Risbec), C. connectens Kieffer, C. fuscicornis Kieffer, C. longitarsis Kieffer, C. semicyanea Ashmead, C. tricarinata Kieffer; and twenty-one species are described as new: C. aequalis Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. alternata Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. bidens Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. copiosa Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. cuneus Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. curta Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. depilis Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. dispar Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. feng Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. fossa Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. ingens Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. levitas Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. longa Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. maura Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. parvitas Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. pilus Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. plana Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. rara Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. robusta Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. semilutea Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. sparsa Chen & Johnson, sp. n. Chromoteleia rufithorax Kieffer remains a valid species, but its identity and status are unclear. All species are known only from the Neotropical region except for Chromoteleia congoana (Resbec) which only occurs in Africa.
["identification key"]

Cryptic species diversity in the Hypsolebias magnificus complex, a clade of endangered seasonal killifishes from the São Francisco River basin, Brazilian Caatinga (Cyprinodontiformes, Aplocheilidae)
A great diversity of animal species adapted to life in the semi-arid Caatinga of northeastern Brazil, including seasonal killifishes, has been reported in the last three decades. More recently, field and molecular data have shown a high occurrence of cryptic species. The killifish group herein analysed, the Hypsolebias magnificus species complex, is endemic to the middle and southern portion of the Caatinga, occupying about 120 km along the floodplains of the middle São Francisco River and some adjacent tributaries. Species of this complex are rare and presently considered threatened with extinction, being uniquely found in pools protected by trees and bushes. Single-locus delimitation methods were used to test species limits of populations displaying different colour patterns along the whole distribution of the complex. All analyses consistently supported the three nominal species and two new, herein described: H. gardneri Costa, sp. n., from the floodplains of the middle São Francisco River and H. hamadryades Costa, sp. n., from the Gorotuba River floodplains. The phylogenetic analysis highly supports H. hamadryades as sister to a clade comprising H. gardneri and H. harmonicus. Our field observations suggest that H. hamadryades is a miniature species. This study indicates that the H. magnificus complex comprises cryptic species apparently endemic to small areas and extremely vulnerable to environmental changes, deserving high concern.

The spider genus Pterotricha in Iran, with the description of a new genus (Araneae, Gnaphosidae)
The spider genus Pterotricha Kulczyński, 1903 (Gnaphosidae) is surveyed in Iran. To date, three species of this genus were known in the country: P. loeffleri (Roewer, 1955), P. lentiginosa (C. L. Koch, 1837) and P. pseudoparasyriaca Nuruyeva & Huseynov, 2016. Here two new species are described, P. kovblyuki Zamani & Marusik, sp. n. (♂, western Iran) and P. montana Zamani & Marusik, sp. n. (♀, central and southwestern Iran), and P. cf. dalmasi Fage, 1929 (from Algeria to Jordan) is reported in Iran for the first time. Pterotricha tikaderi Gajbe, 1983 syn. n. (India) and P. loeffleri (Roewer, 1955), syn. n. are synonymized with P. strandi Spassky, 1936 (hitherto known from Turkmenistan only). The record of P. lentiginosa from Iran is apparently based on misidentification. A distribution map of the genus in Iran with new provincial records is provided. In addition, Iranotricha Zamani & Marusik, gen. n., a new genus closely related to Pterotricha, is described from southeastern Iran with the type species I. lutensis Zamani & Marusik, sp. n.

Tetrablemmidae, a spider family newly recorded from Cambodia (Arachnida, Araneae)
The family Tetrablemmidae O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1873 is reported from Cambodia for the first time. Two species belonging to the genus Tetrablemma O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1873 are documented as new to science: Tetrablemma kepense sp. n. (male, female) from Kep Province and Tetrablemma sokense sp. n. (male, female) from Battambang Province. Diagnoses, morphological descriptions, and comparative illustrations are provided.
["Haplogynae"]

A newly discovered biodiversity hotspot of many-plumed moths in the Mount Cameroon area: first report on species diversity, with description of nine new species (Lepidoptera, Alucitidae)
Fifteen species of many-plumed moths are recorded from the Mount Cameroon area, SW Cameroon, West Africa. Nine species: Alucita longipenis Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. lidiya Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. ludmila Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. escobari Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. mischenini Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. fokami Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. janeceki Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., A. besongi Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., and A. olga Ustjuzhanin & Kovtunovich, sp. n., are described as new for science. Four species are recorded as new from Cameroon: A. acalyptra, A. chloracta, A. coffeina, and A. spicifera. By these records, the Mount Cameroon area has become the richest known Afrotropical locality for the Alucitidae, highlighting its tremendous value for biodiversity conservation.
["Alucitidae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A new species of Pupulina van Beneden, 1892 (Copepoda, Siphonostomatoida, Caligidae) from Aetobatus cf. narinari (Pisces, Myliobatidae) from the Pacific coast of Ecuador
A new caligid copepod species, Pupulina mantensis sp. n. is described based on female and male specimens collected from the gills of the myliobatid elasmobranch Aetobatus cf. narinari Euphrasen, 1790 captured off the Pacific coast of Ecuador. The new species has a unique combination of characters that diverges from its known congeners, including: (i) weakly developed posterolateral processes on the genital complex; (ii) large spines on posterior surface of maxilliped basis (iii) abdomen slender, unsegmented, approximately 1/2 length and 1/5 width of genital complex; (iv) third exopodal segment of leg II with single long naked spine adjacent to minute, naked lateral spine; (v) velum of leg II with adjacent patch of denticles; (vi) caudal rami slightly less than half the length of genital complex; (vii) post-antennal process with robust, posteriorly directed tine, sclerotized stump posterolaterally, and two multi-sensillate papillae located on or near base of process (viii) post-oral process oval. The overall prevalence of P. mantensis sp. n. on its host was 37.5% and its mean abundance was 1.87 specimens per host. This is the second record of the genus Pupulina from Ecuador and the second record of Pupulina infecting rays of the Myliobatinae genus Aetobatus, of the subfamily Myliobatinae, after its discovery on A. ocellatus in Australia, thus confirming this expansion of its previously known host range to a new elasmobranch subfamily.
["crustaceans"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A review of the Cholevinae from the island of Borneo (Coleoptera, Leiodidae)
The available knowledge of the round fungus beetle subfamily Cholevinae (Leiodidae) from the island of Borneo is reviewed, and the results of newly studied material presented. The currently known 30 species (of which 14 are newly described herein) represent the genera Micronemadus (one species), Catops (one species), Baryodirus (one species), Ptomaphaginus (14 species), and Ptomaphaminus (13 species). The following new species are described: Micronemadus sondaicus Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., Ptomaphaginus grandis Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. louis Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. muluensis Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., and P. isabellarossellini Schilthuizen, Njunjić & Perreau, sp. n., and Ptomaphaminus kinabatanganensis Njunjić, Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. testaceus Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. nanus Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. marshalli Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. hanskii Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. sarawacensis Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. layangensis Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., P. microphallus Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n., and P. alabensis Schilthuizen & Perreau, sp. n. It is expected that the cholevine biodiversity of Borneo is still far from completely known. Nonetheless, provisional identification keys to all species known so far are presented.
["caves"]

An enigmatic new species of Panorpa Linneaus from the Bashan Mountains (Mecoptera, Panorpidae)
A new species of Panorpidae, Panorpa bashanicola sp. n., is described and illustrated from the Bashan Mountains in central China. The new species is characterized by the following characters: vertex black, with two pale longitudinal stripes and four pale rounded spots; vein 1A ending before the origin of Rs; meso- and metanotum pale, and the pale color extending to tergum III in V-shape; male epandrium emarginate distally in deep U-shape; hypovalves without basal stalk, completely represented by a pair of short hypovalves, extending to distal third of gonocoxite, with five black stout setae in distal portion; paramere simple, S-shaped; a bundle of long hairs between dorsal and ventral valves of aedeagus; dorsal valves of aedeagus much longer than ventral valves and curved ventrally, with distal portion foot-shaped; female medigynium twice as long as wide, with stout axis extending over one-third its length beyond main plate.

A taxonomic study of Muscidifurax Girault & Sanders from China (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae)
Five species of Muscidifurax Girault & Sanders (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) are studied from mainland China, of which three new species, M. similadanacus Xiao & Zhou, sp. n., M. sinesensilla Xiao & Zhou, sp. n., M. neoraptorellus Xiao & Zhou, sp. n., and one newly recorded species, M. adanacus Doganlar, are reported. All species have been reared from pupae of Musca domestica Linnaeus. A key to Chinese Muscidifurax and illustrations of external features of the species are provided.
["China mainland"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

Ecto- and endo-parasitic monogeneans (Platyhelminthes) on cultured freshwater exotic fish species in the state of Morelos, South-Central Mexico
An extensive parasitological study of 365 freshwater exotic fish specimens belonging to 13 species of seven families (Cichlidae, Cyprinidae, Osphronemidae, Pangasidae, Poeciliidae, Characidae, and Loricariidae) collected from 31 Aquaculture Production Units (APU) from Central Mexico revealed the occurrence of 29 ecto- and endo-parasitic monogeneans found on gills and stomachs: Cichlidogyrus sclerosus, C. thurstonae, C. tilapiae, Cichlidogyrus sp. 1, Cichlidogyrus sp. 2, Enterogyrus coronatus, E. malmbergi, Gussevia spiralocirra, Sciadicleithrum iphthimum, Sciadicleithrum sp., Scutogyrus longicornis (all Dactylogyridae), Gyrodactylus cichlidarum, and G. yacatli (Gyrodactylidae) on Oreochromis niloticus, Pterophyllum scalare and Hemichromis sp. (Cichlidae); Dactylogyrus baueri, D. formosus, D. intermedius, D. vastator, D. extensus, Dactylogyrus sp. (all Dactylogyridae), and G. kobayashii on Carassius auratus, Cyprinus carpio and Ctenopharyngodon idella (Cyprinidae); Trianchoratus acleithrium and T. trichogasterium (Dactylogyridae) on Trichogaster trichopterus (Osphronemidae); Thaparocleidus caecus, T. siamensis (Dactylogyridae), and Dactylogyridae sp. on Pangasianodon hypophthalmus (Pangasidae); G. poeciliae on Poecilia reticulata (Poeciliidae); Diaphorocleidus armillatus (Dactylogyridae) on Gymnocorymbus ternetzy (Characidae); Unilatus unilatus (Dactylogyridae) and Gyrodactylidae sp. on Hypostomus sp. (Loricariidae). The paramount importance of the establishment of these monogeneans due to the importation/exportation of non-native ornamental and other exotic host fish species cultured for food in Mexico is briefly discussed. Quarantine is recommended for all transferred host species.
["characids"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Two new species of the bamboo-feeding genus Bambusicaliscelis Chen & Zhang, 2011 from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Caliscelidae)
Two new species of the bamboo-feeding planthopper genus Bambusicaliscelis Chen & Zhang, 2011, B. flavus Chen & Gong, sp. n. and B. guttatus Chen & Gong, sp. n., are described and illustrated from China. The generic characteristics are redefined and photographs of the new species are provided. A checklist and a key to species of Bambusicaliscelis are also given.
["Caliscelini"]

Ten new species of the spider genus Althepus Thorell, 1898 from Southeast Asia (Araneae, Ochyroceratidae)
Spiders of the genus Althepus Thorell, 1898 are found throughout Southeast Asia, notable for their long walking legs. Ten new species are reported in this paper from China, Indonesia, Laos and Myanmar: A. chengmenensis Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), A. cheni Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), A. gouci Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), A. hongguangi Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), A. phousalao Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), A. qianhuang Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), A. qingyuani Li & Li, sp. n. (♀), A. sepakuensis Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), A. xuae Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀) and A. yizhuang Li & Li, sp. n. (♂♀). These species were found in cave entrances and among tree-buttresses, indicating the spiders have a preference for dark and moist environments. All types are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, China (IZCAS).

Searching for shelter in a ferruginous cave? A new species of Pasipha from a plateau in the Brazilian savanna (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida)
In a fauna survey in the eastern margin of Serra do Espinhaço Plateau, in an area belonging to the Brazilian savanna (Cerrado phytophysiognomy), a land flatworm was sampled in a ferruginous cave. Anatomical and histological analyses indicated that it belongs to a new species of the genus Pasipha, which is herein described. The new species shows an almost homogenous dark brown dorsal pigmentation, eyes spreading over the dorsal surface, a collar-shaped pharynx, and a prostatic vesicle with two portions separated by a canal. It differs from similar species mainly by anatomical and histological details of the ejaculatory duct, as well as male and female atria. The flatworm shows no troglomorphic traits and was collected once in the entrance zone of the cave. Hence, despite representing the first land flatworm species described from a Neotropical cave, we consider that its occurrence in the cave is probably occasional, using it as a shelter.
["Geoplaninae"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Morphology and molecular genetics reveal two new Leptobrachella species in southern China (Anura, Megophryidae)
Based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses (16S rRNA mtDNA), two new species of the genus Leptobrachella are described from southern China, namely L. yunkaiensis Wang, Li, Lyu & Wang, sp. n. from Dawuling Forest Station of Guangdong Province and L. wuhuangmontis Wang, Yang & Wang, sp. n. from Mt. Wuhuang of Guangxi Province. To date, the genus Leptobrachella contains 68 species, among which 13 species are known from China. The descriptions of the two new species further emphasize that the species diversity of the genus Leptobrachella from China is still highly underestimated and requires further investigations.

New records of the endemic Sicilian land snail species Marmorana (Murella) muralis (O. F. Müller, 1774) from the north of Tunisia (Pulmonata, Gastropoda)
Marmorana (Murella) muralis is known as an endemic species of Sicily Island, which is introduced in many European countries. Here, M. (M.) muralis is recorded from the north of Tunisia. In order to confirm the identification of samples collected from several localities, shell morphology, details of genital organs and two mitochondrial markers (COI and 16S) were investigated. The results of the molecular study, as well as the morphological and anatomical studies confirm the identification of all Tunisian samples as M. (M.) muralis. The analysis of mitochondrial markers shows a low divergence between Sicilian and Tunisian samples suggesting a recent introduction of M. (M.) muralis to the North of Tunisia. The comparison of morphological characters of M. (M.) muralis with shell characters of Murella nicollei described by Pallary (1926) confirms that the latter should be considered as synonym of M. (M.) muralis.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

A primitive honey bee from the Middle Miocene deposits of southeastern Yunnan, China (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
While fossils of honey bees (Apini: Apis Linnaeus) are comparatively abundant in European Oligocene and Miocene deposits, the available material from Asia is scant and represented by only a handful of localities. It is therefore significant to report a new deposit with a fossil honey bee from southern China. Apis (Synapis) dalica Engel & Wappler, sp. n., is described and figured from Middle Miocene sediments of Maguan County, southeastern Yunnan Province, China. This is the first fossil bee from the Cenozoic of southern China, and is distinguished from its close congeners present at the slightly older locality of Shanwang, Shandong in northeastern China. The species can be distinguished on the basis of wing venation differences from other Miocene Apis.
["Aculeata"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Two new species of the Aenictus wroughtonii species group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Dorylinae) from Thailand
The Aenictus wroughtonii species group is widely distributed in Asia. The members of this group are characterised by a slender body, long legs, anterior clypeal margin with 5–10 denticles and a weakly-developed subpetiolar process. Twelve worker-based species of this group have been recorded from Asia. Herein, two new species from Thailand (Aenictus nuchiti sp. n. and Aenictus samungi sp. n.) are added to this group. A key to the Asian species of this group is provided.
["Aenictus wroughtonii species group"]

Micropeplus liweiae sp. n., a new species from Sichuan, China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Micropeplinae)
A new species of micropepline beetle is described from Sichuan, China, Micropeplus liweiae sp. n. (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae). Important morphological characters of the new species are illustrated by colour plates.

Two new species of the genus Methocha from Laos (Hymenoptera, Tiphiidae)
Two new species of Methocha, M. cariniventris and M. granulosa are described from Laos.
["Cicindelinae"]

A new remarkable species of Alloscorpiops Vachon, 1980 from Myanmar (Burma) (Scorpiones, Scorpiopidae)
Among the genera of the family Scorpiopidae Kraepelin, 1905 Alloscorpiops remains yet rather discrete. New species were added to this genus only recently, increasing its number from two to six. Therefore, species of Alloscorpiops can be considered rare and uncommonly collected. One particular new species, Alloscorpiops viktoriae sp. n., is described based on two females and one pre-adult male collected from the northern part of central Myanmar (Burma). The new species presents most features exhibited by scorpions of the genus Alloscorpiops, but it is characterised by a moderate to small size, very strongly marked granulation, and a particular trichobothrial pattern. Aspects of the ecology and distribution of the new species are discussed and compared with those of other species of genus Alloscorpiops.
["Alloscorpiops"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Philippiphonte aspidosoma gen. et sp. n., a radically divergent member of the Laophontidae from shell gravel in the East Sea, South Korea, including a review of Folioquinpes Fiers & Rutledge, 1990 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida)
The primarily marine subtidal family Laophontidae not only contains more valid genera than any other family in the Harpacticoida, it is also one of the most speciose ones in the order, currently accommodating 327 species and subspecies. Based on published records, 25 laophontid species in 12 genera have so far been reported from Korean waters. Here both sexes of a new genus and species of Laophontidae are described, collected from shell gravel off Dokdo Island in the East Sea. Philippiphonte aspidosoma gen. et sp. n. displays a radically divergent morphology, including an extreme dorsoventrally depressed body shape which is reminiscent of members of the family Porcellidiidae. The convergent evolution of dorsoventrally flattened body plans in the Harpacticoida is briefly discussed. The distribution and habitat preference of laophontid species recorded from the Korean peninsula are summarised. The authenticity of the Korean record of Folioquinpes mangalis Fiers & Rutledge, 1990 from washings of invertebrates and intertidal stones from Jeju Island is reassessed in the light of a discussion of the genus. Folioquinpes pseudomangalis sp. n. and F. indicus sp. n. are proposed as new species for Folioquinpes mangalis Fiers & Rutledge, 1990 sensuKim (2013) and Laophonte chathamensis Sars, 1905 sensuSewell (1924), respectively. A key to species of Folioquinpes Fiers & Rutledge, 1990 is provided.

Description of Triatoma mopan sp. n. from a cave in Belize (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae)
In this paper, Triatoma mopan sp. n. is described based on five males and six females collected in the Rio Frio cave, Cayo District, Belize. This species is similar to Triatoma dimidiata (Latreille), but can be distinguished by characters found on the pronotum, legs, and abdomen. Geometric morphometry and phylogenetic comparisons are also provided. Presently, the species is known only from the type locality and is a potential Chagas vector.
["Belize"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Trypanosoma species research and implications", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Labiobaetis from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Insecta, Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
Mayfly larvae and imagos were collected at approximately 50 localities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSU). Included in this material, three species of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge, 1987 are recorded, two of them being new to science. Labiobaetis potamoticus Gattolliat & Al Dhafer, sp. n. is described from both larvae and adults, whereas Labiobaetis alahmadii Gattolliat & Al Dhafer, sp. n. is only known from the larval stage. The two species are compared morphologically with Palearctic and Afrotropical species of Labiobaetis. A third species, Labiobaetis glaucus (Agnew, 1961) is reported for the first time from the Arabian Peninsula. The species was originally described from South Africa and subsequently reported from the east and northeast of Africa. A molecular reconstruction including 18 Afrotropical and Palearctic species of Labiobaetis was performed using 658 bp of the mitochondrial gene CO1. The reconstruction highly supported the validity of the two new species and confirmed the occurrence of L. glaucus in KSU.
["Arabian Peninsula"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Systematics of Neotropical microteiid lizards (Gymnophthalmidae, Cercosaurinae), with the description of a new genus and species from the Andean montane forests
Cercosaurine lizards (subfamily Cercosaurinae of the family Gymnophthalmidae) represent a substantial component of the reptile fauna in the Neotropics. Several attempts have been made to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships within this group, but most studies focused on particular genera or regions and did not cover the subfamily as a whole. In this study, material from the montane forests of Peru was newly sequenced. In combination with all cercosaurine sequences available on GenBank, an updated phylogeny of Cercosaurinae is provided. Monophyly was not supported for three of the currently recognised genera (Echinosaura, Oreosaurus, and Proctoporus). The genus Proctoporus is formed by five monophyletic groups, which should be used in future taxonomic revisions as feasible entities. Recognition of two previously identified undescribed clades (Unnamed clades 2 and 3) was supported and yet another undescribed clade (termed here Unnamed clade 4), which deserves recognition as an independent genus, was identified herein. Selvasaura brava, a new genus and new species of arboreal gymnophthalmid lizard is described from the montane forests of the Pui Pui Protected Forest, Provincia de Chanchamayo, Región Junín, Peru. The new species is characterised by its small size (SVL 42.1–45.9 mm), slender body, smooth head shields, presence of paired prefrontal shields, fused anteriormost supraocular and anteriormost superciliary shields, transparent not divided lower palpebral disc, slightly rugose subimbricate rectangular dorsal scales in adults (slightly keeled in juveniles), distinctly smaller but non-granular lateral scales, smooth squared to rectangular ventral scales, and hemipenial lobes large, distinct from the hemipenial body. Phylogenetic affinities of the new genus to the other cercosaurine genera, as well as basal phylogenetic relationships between the other cercosaurine genera remain unresolved.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Widespread continental mtDNA lineages prevail in the bumblebee fauna of Iceland
Origins of the fauna in Iceland is controversial, although the majority of modern research supports the postglacial colonization of this island by terrestrial invertebrates rather than their long-term survival in glacial refugia. In this study, we use three bumblebee species as a model to test the hypothesis regarding possible cryptic refugia in Iceland and to evaluate a putative origin of recently introduced taxa. Bombus jonellus is thought to be a possible native Icelandic lineage, whereas B. lucorum and B. hortorum were evidently introduced in the second half of the 20th century. These phylogeographic analyses reveal that the Icelandic Bombus jonellus shares two COI lineages, one of which also occurs in populations on the British Isles and in mainland Europe, but a second lineage (BJ-02) has not been recorded anywhere. These results indicate that this species may have colonized Iceland two times and that the lineage BJ-02 may reflect a more ancient Late Pleistocene or Early Holocene founder event (e.g., from the British Isles). The Icelandic populations of both Bombus lucorum and B. hortorum share the COI lineages that were recorded as widespread throughout Eurasia, from the European countries across Russia to China and Japan. The findings presented here highlight that the bumblebee fauna of Iceland comprises mainly widespread ubiquitous lineages that arrived via natural or human-mediated dispersal events from the British Isles or the mainland.

Freshwater bryozoans of Lithuania (Bryozoa)
Nine species of freshwater bryozoans were recorded in Lithuania in a survey of 18 various types of freshwater bodies. Eight species were assigned to the Class Phylactolaemata and families Plumatellidae and Cristatellidae (Plumatella repens, Plumatella fungosa, Plumatella fruticosa, Plumatella casmiana, Plumatella emarginata, Plumatella geimermassardi, Hyalinella punctata and Cristatella mucedo). The ninth species, Paludicella articulata, represented the Class Gymnolaemata. Plumatella geimermassardi and P. casmiana were recorded for the first time in Lithuania. For the plumatellids, species identification was achieved partly by analysing statoblasts’ morphological ultrastructures by scanning electron microscopy.
["Phylactolaemata"]
["Myxozoan Parasites in Aquatic Species", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Checklist of ladybirds of Algeria with two new recorded species (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
An updated and corrected checklist of species of ladybird beetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) known in Algeria now contains 75 species belonging in ten tribes. New country records include the European species Oenopia conglobata and the invasive Asian species Harmonia axyridis. Sampling data is provided for 14 species found during a faunistic survey performed mostly in agroecosystems, together with host plant and prey species.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Hawaiian Philodoria (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Ornixolinae) leaf mining moths on Myrsine (Primulaceae): two new species and biological data
This paper provides new taxonomic and biological data on a complex of gracillariid moths in the endemic genus Philodoria Walsingham, 1907 that are associated with Myrsine (Primulaceae) in the Hawaiian Islands, United States. Two new species, Philodoria kauaulaensis Kobayashi, Johns & Kawahara, sp. n. (host: Myrsine lanaiensis, M. lessertiana, and M. sandwicensis) and P. kolea Kobayashi, Johns & Kawahara, sp. n. (host: M. lessertiana) are described. Biological data are provided for two previously described species that also feed on Myrsine: P. auromagnifica Walsingham, 1907 and P. succedanea Walsingham, 1907. For the first time we detail and illustrate genital structures, immature stages, biology, and host plants of P. auromagnifica and P. succedanea. Philodoria kolea, P. auromagnifica, and P. succedanea occur in sympatry on the island of Hawaii (Big Island), but each species differs in behavioral characters: P. kolea utilizes leaves of seedlings and forms a serpentine mine, whereas the latter two utilize leaves of larger plants, and form linear or serpentine to blotch mines. More broadly, leaf mine forms and diagnostic characteristics of the Myrsine-feeding species complex of Philodoria (as currently known) are reviewed and illustrated.

A new species of the genus Blaptogonia from the Himalayas with four DNA markers (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Blaptini)
A new species of the genus Blaptogonia Medvedev, 1998, B. zhentanga sp. n., is described from the southern Himalayas of China. Two fragments of mitochondrial protein-coding genes (COI, Cytb), one fragment of mitochondrial ribosomal RNA gene (16S), and one fragment of nuclear rRNA gene (28SD2) of the new species were obtained. A key to the known species of the genus is presented.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Parasitic wasps related to Prays oleae (Bernard, 1788) (Lepidoptera, Praydidae) in olive orchards in Greece
The olive moth, Prays oleae (Bernard, 1788) (Lepidoptera: Praydidae) is categorised among the most devastating insect pests of olives, whose anthophagous and carpophagous generations can cause yield loss up to 581 and 846 kg of fruit per ha, respectively. In this study, results of the captured parasitoids in olive tree (Olea europaea Linnaeus, 1753) orchards, or infested olive plant material in Crete, Greece, is presented. Five of the six identified species captured in trap devices are related to P. oleae, i.e., Chelonus elaeaphilus Silvestri, 1908, Chelonus pellucens (Nees, 1816), Apanteles xanthostigma (Haliday, 1834), Diadegma armillatum (Gravenhorst, 1829), and Exochus lentipes Gravenhorst, 1829. The species Eupelmus urozonus Dalman, 1820 and Pnigalio mediterraneus Ferrière & Delucchi, 1957 were reared from infested P. oleae leaves. Chelonus pellucens is reported for the first time from Greece. According to the international literature, 59 hymenopterous and dipterous parasitoid species are associated with P. oleae in Europe.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

A molecular and conchological dissection of the “scaly” Georissa of Malaysian Borneo (Gastropoda, Neritimorpha, Hydrocenidae)
The Bornean hydrocenids have so far been understudied compared to other non-pulmonate snails in this region. In the present study, we review a first group of minute land snail species belonging to the genus Georissa (Gastropoda, Hydrocenidae) from Malaysian Borneo. This group is restricted to the species with conspicuous scale-like sculpture on the shell. Based on materials from recent fieldwork, museums, and personal collections, Malaysian Borneo hydrocenids are more complex and diverse in shell characters than previously anticipated. Here, a molecular, conchological, and biogeographic study of this “scaly group” is presented. We recognise 13 species of which six are new to science, namely Georissa anyiensis sp. n., Georissa muluensis sp. n., Georissa bauensis sp. n., Georissa silaburensis sp. n., Georissa kinabatanganensis sp. n., and Georissa sepulutensis sp. n.
["Gastropods"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A contribution to Dongodytes (s. str.) Deuve, 1993 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
The hypogean genus Dongodytes Deuve, 1993, one of the most cave-adapted genera of ground beetles, is distributed in northern Guangxi, ranging from Mashan through Du’an, Bama, and Fengshan to Tian’e. Review of nominate subgenus Dongodytes Deuve, 1993, with new records for D. fowleri Deuve, 1993 and D. grandis Uéno, 1998 are provided. Meanwhile, Dongodytes tonywhitteni sp. n. is described from a limestone cave in Bama County. This interesting species is dedicated to the late Dr. Tony Whitten, a well-known cave biodiversity conservationist in Asia. A key to all species of Dongodytes (s. str.) is also provided.
["aphaenopsian"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

New species and records of Sericini scarab beetles from the Indian subcontinent (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae)
The current paper presents new locality records, including first state records for Mizoram, of 92 species of Sericini (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) from the Indian subcontinent. Eight new species are described herein: Maladera alloservitrita sp. n., M. kolasibensis sp. n., M. mizoramensis sp. n., Neoserica radhanagariensis sp. n., Serica (s. str.) basantapurensissp. n., S. (s. str.) mahakaliensissp. n., S. (s. str.) therathumensissp. n., and S. (s. str.) zianiisp. n.
["chafers"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Review of the Japanese records of an endangered grouper, Epinephelus tukula, with comments on its population status (Teleostei, Serranidae)
The Potato Grouper, Epinephelus tukula, is relatively rare worldwide. Records from the northernmost part of its range (Japan) have been few, resulting in a “Critically Endangered” listing on the Red List for Japan. The Japanese records were revised by examining literature, new specimens, photographs, and the internet, and a continuous distribution pattern from the tropical Ryukyu Islands (including adult individuals) to temperate regions affected by the Kuroshio Current were delineated; this suggests the species inhabits tropical Japan and can spread to temperate regions via the warm current. The species possibly reproduces in Japanese waters but further reproductive ecology research is required.
["Potato Grouper"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Echinoderes pterus sp. n. showing a geographically and bathymetrically wide distribution pattern on seamounts and on the deep-sea floor in the Arctic Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea (Kinorhyncha, Cyclorhagida)
Kinorhynchs rarely show a wide distribution pattern, due to their putatively low dispersal capabilities and/or limited sampling efforts. In this study, a new kinorhynch species is described, Echinoderes pterus sp. n., which shows a geographically and bathymetrically wide distribution, occurring on the Karasik Seamount and off the Svalbard Islands (Arctic Ocean), on the Sedlo Seamount (northeast Atlantic Ocean), and on the deep-sea floor off Crete and on the Anaximenes Seamount (Mediterranean Sea), at a depth range of 675–4,403 m. The new species is characterized by a combination of middorsal acicular spines on segments 4–8, laterodorsal tubes on segment 10, lateroventral tubes on segment 5, lateroventral acicular spines on segments 6–9, tufts of long hairs rising from slits in a laterodorsal position on segment 9, truncated tergal extensions on segment 11, and the absence of any type-2 gland cell outlet. The specimens belonging to the populations from the Arctic Ocean, the Sedlo Seamount, and the Mediterranean Sea show morphological variation in the thickness and length of the spines as well as in the presence/absence of ventromedial sensory spots on segment 7. The different populations are regarded as belonging to a single species because of their overlapping variable characters.
["meiofauna"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Comments on the genus Diplura C. L. Koch, 1850, with description of two new species (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Dipluridae)
Two new species of Diplura C. L. Koch 1850 are described from Brazil: Diplura mapinguari sp. n., from the state of Rondônia in southeastern Amazonia, northern Brazil, and Diplura rodrigoi sp. n., known from southeastern and central west regions of Brazil. Diplura rodrigoi sp. n. is morphologically similar to D. lineata (Lucas, 1857), D. sanguinea (F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896), and D. mapinguari sp. n. Comments on diagnostic characters of Diplura are included. The synonymy of D. maculata (Mello-Leitão, 1927) with D. catharinensis (Mello-Leitão, 1923) is corroborated. A classification of color pattern of the dorsum of the abdomen is given.

Revision of the Palaearctic species of the Merodon desuturinus group (Diptera, Syrphidae)
This revision of material belonging to the Merodon desuturinus group from the Palaearctic Region resulted in the delimitation of four species: Merodon cabanerensis Marcos-García, Vujić & Mengual, 2007; Merodon desuturinus Vujić, Šimić & Radenković, 1995; Merodon neolydicus Vujić, nom. n.; and Merodon murorum Fabricius, 1794. Merodon murorum is redescribed. A neotype for Merodon auripilus Meigen, 1830 is designated, which is a new junior synonym of Merodon murorum. The related Afrotropical species Merodon cuthbertsoni Curran, 1939 is re-evaluated and compared to its sibling Palaearctic taxon Merodon desuturinus. An identification key for the Merodon desuturinus group is provided.
["Merodon"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Two new species of the genus Trilacuna from Chongqing, China (Araneae, Oonopidae)
Two new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007, T. simianshan Tong & Li, sp. n. and T. songyuae Tong & Li, sp. n., are described from Simianshan Natural Reserve, Chongqing, China.

A late Pleistocene gastropod fauna from the northern Caspian Sea with implications for Pontocaspian gastropod taxonomy
The present paper details a very diverse non-marine gastropod fauna retrieved from Caspian Pleistocene deposits along the Volga River north of Astrakhan (Russia). During time of deposition (early Late Pleistocene, late Khazarian regional substage), the area was situated in shallow water of the greatly expanded Caspian Sea. The fauna contains 24 species, of which 16 are endemic to the Pontocaspian region and 15 to the Caspian Sea. The majority of the species (13) belongs to the Pyrgulinae (Hydrobiidae), a group famous for its huge morphological variability in the Pontocaspian region. The phenotypic diversity has led to an inflation of genus and species names in the literature. New concepts are proposed for many of the genera and species found in the present material, with implications for the systematics and taxonomy of the entire Pontocaspian gastropod fauna. Laevicaspia vinarskii sp. n. is described as a new species. This contribution is considered a first step in revising the Pontocaspian gastropod fauna.
["Marine and environmental studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species of Kurixalus from western Yunnan, China (Anura, Rhacophoridae)
A new species of the genus Kurixalus (Anura: Rhacophoridae) is described from western Yunnan, China. Genetically the new species, Kurixalus yangi sp. n., is closer to Kurixalus naso than to other known congeners. Morphologically the new species is distinguished from all other known congeners by a combination of the following characters: smaller ratios of head, snout, limbs, IND, and UEW to body size; male body size larger than 30 mm; curved canthus rostralis; weak nuptial pad; brown dorsal color; absence of large dark spots on surface of upper-middle abdomen; presence of vomerine teeth; gold brown iris; single internal vocal sac; serrated dermal fringes along outer edge of limbs; granular throat and chest; rudimentary web between fingers; and presence of supernumerary tubercles and outer metacarpal tubercle.

Sinodraconarius gen. n., a new genus of Coelotinae spiders from Southwest China (Araneae, Agelenidae)
A new genus of the subfamily Coelotinae F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1893, Sinodraconarius gen. n., with four new species, S. cawarongensis sp. n. (♂♀), S. muruoensis sp. n. (♂♀), S. sangjiuensis sp. n. (♂♀, type species), S. yui sp. n. (♂♀) and S. patellabifidus (Wang, 2003) comb. n., ex. Draconarius Ovtchinnikov, 1999 is described. The genus is restricted to Southwest China. Sinodraconarius gen. n. is most similar to Draconarius but can be distinguished by the shape of the copulatory organs. The DNA barcodes of all species were documented for future use.

Ancient home or in exile? The easternmost species of genus Starengovia Snegovaya, 2010 found in China (Opiliones, Nemastomatidae, Nemastomatinae)
Starengovia quadrituberculata sp. n. is described and illustrated based on male and female specimens collected in Yunnan Province, China. The new species is distinct from the two other congeners, S. kirgizica Snegovaya, 2010 and S. ivanloebli Martens, 2017, in having two pairs of low submedian tubercles on abdominal areae III and IV; distal margin of the lateral foliate wing-like structures of the penis situated close to the glans base, the short rod-like stylus, the form and position of spines on the stylus of the penis, anvil-shaped tubercles mainly on front margin of prosoma. The occurrence of Starengovia in Yunnan, the second nemastomatine species in China, creates a huge distributional gap of roughly 2700 km distance to its closest neighbor S. ivanloebli in Northwest Pakistan. The historical relations of Chinese nemastomatines are discussed.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Two new species of Brusqeulia Razowski & Becker, 2000 from the Neotropics, with comments on the systematic position of the genus in relation to the Apolychrosis Amsel, 1962 group of genera (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae, Cochylini)
Two new species of the neotropical genus Brusqeulia Razowski & Becker, 2000, are described and illustrated: B. yunkensis Pérez Santa-Rita & Baixeras, sp. n. from Bolivia and B. araguensis Pérez Sant-Rita & Baixeras, sp. n. from Venezuela. The systematic position and diagnostic characters of the genus are reviewed, resulting in the synonymy of Pinhaisania Razowski & Becker, 2000, with Brusqeulia, and the combination B. crispula (Razowski & Becker, 2000), comb. n. New characters of the female genitalia are discussed.
["Brusqeulia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

Systematics of the ant genus Proceratium Roger (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Proceratiinae) in China – with descriptions of three new species based on micro-CT enhanced next-generation-morphology
The genus Proceratium Roger, 1863 contains cryptic, subterranean ants that are seldom sampled and rare in natural history collections. Furthermore, most Proceratium specimens are extremely hairy and, due to their enlarged and curved gaster, often mounted suboptimally. As a consequence, the poorly observable physical characteristics of the material and its scarcity result in a rather challenging alpha taxonomy of this group. In this study, the taxonomy of the Chinese Proceratium fauna is reviewed and updated by combining examinations of traditional light microscopy with x-ray microtomography (micro-CT). Based on micro-CT scans of seven out of eight species, virtual 3D surface models were generated that permit in-depth comparative analyses of specimen morphology in order to overcome the difficulties to examine physical material of Proceratium. Eight Chinese species are recognized, of which three are newly described: Proceratium bruelheidei Staab, Xu & Hita Garcia, sp. n. and P. kepingmai sp. n. belong to the P. itoi clade and have been collected in the subtropical forests of southeast China, whereas P. shohei sp. n. belongs to the P. stictum clade and it is only known from a tropical forest of Yunnan Province. Proceratium nujiangense Xu, 2006 syn. n. is proposed as a junior synonym of P. zhaoi Xu, 2000. These taxonomic acts raise the number of known Chinese Proceratium species to eight. In order to integrate the new species into the existing taxonomic system and to facilitate identifications, an illustrated key to the worker caste of all Chinese species is provided, supplemented by species accounts with high-resolution montage images and still images of volume renderings of 3D models based on micro-CT. Moreover, cybertype datasets are provided for the new species, as well as digital datasets for the remaining species that include the raw micro-CT scan data, 3D surface models, 3D rotation videos, and all light photography and micro-CT still images. These datasets are available online (Dryad, Staab et al. 2018, http://dx.doi.org/10.5061/dryad.h6j0g4p).
["3D model"]

Morphological re-description and molecular identification of Tabanidae (Diptera) in East Africa
Biting flies of the family Tabanidae are important vectors of human and animal diseases across continents. However, records of Africa tabanids are fragmentary and mostly cursory. To improve identification, documentation and description of Tabanidae in East Africa, a baseline survey for the identification and description of Tabanidae in three eastern African countries was conducted. Tabanids from various locations in Uganda (Wakiso District), Tanzania (Tarangire National Park) and Kenya (Shimba Hills National Reserve, Muhaka, Nguruman) were collected. In Uganda, octenol baited F-traps were used to target tabanids, while NG2G traps baited with cow urine and acetone were employed in Kenya and Tanzania. The tabanids were identified using morphological and molecular methods. Morphologically, five genera (Ancala, Tabanus, Atylotus, Chrysops and Haematopota) and fourteen species of the Tabanidae were identified. Among the 14 species identified, six belonged to the genus Tabanus of which two (T. donaldsoni and T. guineensis) had not been described before in East Africa. The greatest diversity of tabanid species were collected from the Shimba Hills National Reserve, while collections from Uganda (around the shores of Lake Victoria) had the fewest number of species. However, the Ancala genus was found in Uganda, but not in Kenya or Tanzania. Maximum likelihood phylogenies of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 (COI) genes sequenced in this study show definite concordance with morphological species identifications, except for Atylotus. This survey will be critical to building a complete checklist of Tabanidae prevalent in the region, expanding knowledge of these important vectors of human and animal diseases.
["Tabanids"]
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

A new species of deep-water spider crab of the genus Paramaya De Haan, 1837 from the Bay of Bengal, India (Crustacea, Brachyura, Majidae)
The identity of the majid species of Paramaya De Haan, 1837, in the Indian Ocean is clarified with the collection of fresh specimens from the Bay of Bengal. Previously identified as P. spinigera (De Haan, 1837) which is known only from Japan, Taiwan, and Korea, the material from eastern India is here referred to a new species, P. mulli sp. n. The new species can easily be distinguished from all congeners by its relatively shorter pseudorostral and carapace spines, more swollen branchial regions, distinctly granulated male thoracic sternum, and the G1 is not prominently curved with the dorsal projection on the sub distal part short and the tip rounded.
["deep-water"]

Two new species of crayfish of the genus Cherax from Indonesian New Guinea (Crustacea, Decapoda, Parastacidae)
Two new species of the genus Cherax are described and illustrated. Cherax mosessalossa sp. n., endemic to the Klademak Creek drainage in Sorong, in the western part of the Kepala Burung (Vogelkop) peninsula, West Papua, Indonesia, is described, figured and compared with its closest relatives, Cherax misolicus Holthuis, 1949 and Cherax warsamsonicus. The new species may be easily distinguished from both by the shape of the rostrum, the shape of the chelae, the presence of five cervical spines, the shape of the scaphocerite, and short scattered hairs on the carapace. Cherax alyciae sp. n., endemic to creeks in the Digul River drainage in the eastern part of the Boven Digoel Regency, Papua, Indonesia, is described, figured, and compared with its closest relative, Cherax peknyi Lukhaup & Herbert, 2008. The new species may be easily distinguished from Cherax peknyi by the shape of the chelae, presence of a soft patch on the chelae of the males, and colouration. A molecular phylogeny based on two mitochondrial gene fragments, 16S and COI, supports the morphology-based description of the two new species, which can also be clearly distinguished by sequence differences.
["freshwater"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Revision of the subterranean genus Spelaeodiscus Brusina, 1886 (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Spelaeodiscidae)
The Balkan genus Spelaeodiscus Brusina, 1886 is revised based on museum collections and newly collected samples from Montenegro and Albania. The following species and subspecies are introduced as new to science: Spelaeodiscus albanicus edentatus Páll-Gergely & P. L. Reischütz, ssp. n. (southern Montenegro and northern Albania), Spelaeodiscus densecostatus Páll-Gergely & A. Reischütz, sp. n., Spelaeodiscus hunyadii Páll-Gergely & Deli, sp. n., Spelaeodiscus latecostatus Páll-Gergely & Erőss, sp. n. (all three from southern Montenegro), Spelaeodiscus unidentatus acutus Páll-Gergely & Fehér, ssp. n., and Spelaeodiscus virpazarioides Páll-Gergely & Fehér, sp. n. (both from northern Albania). For all species and subspecies diagnoses and suggestions for conservation status assessments according to IUCN criteria are provided. An overview is given regarding the habitat preference of Spelaeodiscus species, and the “scratch and flotate” method to collect subterranean gastropods.
["Aspasita"]

Species of the subgenus Empis (Xanthempis) from South Korea (Diptera, Empididae)
The subgenus Empis (Xanthempis) is newly recorded from South Korea with the following two species: E. (X.) sesquata (Ito, 1961) and E. (X.) suhisp. n. A key to the known species of Xanthempis from Eastern Asia is presented. The distribution of Xanthempis in eastern Asia is briefly discussed.

Land snail fauna in Gunung Kuang Limestone Hill, Perak, Malaysia and its conservation implications (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
This paper presents the first land snail species checklist for Gunung Kuang (Kuang Hill), a limestone hill located next to Gunung Kanthan that is recognised as one of the most important limestone hills for its diverse land snail fauna in Kinta Valley. Samplings were carried out at five plots in Gunung Kuang. This survey documented 47 land snail species, in which six species were identified as unique to Gunung Kuang. Approximately half of the land snails from Gunung Kanthan were found in Gunung Kuang. In addition, one of six unique species from Gunung Kanthan was also found in Gunung Kuang. These rich land snail species in Gunung Kuang are similar to other hills in Kinta Valley, but it is relatively lesser than the adjacent Gunung Kanthan. In view of Gunung Kuang’s unique land snail species, and its location closest to disturbed Gunung Kanthan, Gunung Kuang should be considered in the conservation management plan for Gunung Kanthan.
["Gunung Kanthan"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Three new genera of acidocerine water scavenger beetles from tropical South America (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Acidocerinae)
Recent collecting efforts in the Neotropics have led to the discovery of numerous new species and lineages of aquatic beetles. Here, three new genera are described to accommodate fifteen new species of water scavenger beetles of the subfamily Acidocerinae from northern South America: Crucisternum gen. n. for C. escalera sp. n. (Venezuela), C. ouboteri sp. n. (Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname, Venezuela), C. queneyi sp. n. (French Guiana), C. sinuatus sp. n. (Brazil), C. toboganensis sp. n. (Venezuela), C. vanessae sp. n. (Suriname), and C. xingu sp. n. (Brazil); Katasophistes gen. n. for K. charynae sp. n. (Peru), K. cuzco sp. n. (Peru), K. merida sp. n. (Venezuela) and K. superficialis sp. n. (Ecuador); and Nanosaphes gen. n. for N. castaneus sp. n. (Brazil), N. hesperus sp. n. (Suriname), N. punctatus sp. n. (Guyana), and N. tricolor sp. n. (Guyana, Suriname). It was also found that the monotypic Neotropical endemic genus Dieroxenus Spangler, 1979, syn. n. is congeneric with Chasmogenus Sharp, 1882 resulting in the single new combination Chasmogenus cremnobates (Spangler, 1979), comb. n.. Katasophistes merida sp. n. is known exclusively from seepage habitats, while the remaining taxa described herein are primarily associated with the margins of densely forested streams. Diagnoses, illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat summaries are provided for all new genera and species. A key to the genera of Acidocerinae of the New World is provided.

Barsine podbolotskayae sp. n. from Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Archipelago, Indonesia (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae)
Herein Barsine podbolotskayae sp. n. (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) is described from Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Archipelago, Indonesia. This local endemic species externally resembles Barsine exclusa Butler, 1877 from Sundaland and the Andaman Islands but differs by marking patterns and male genitalia structure.
["East Nusa Tenggara"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Two new species of genus Oecleopsis Emeljanov from China, with descriptions of female genitalia of five species (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae)
Two new species of genus Oecleopsis Emeljanov, 1971, O. laminatus Zhi & Chen, sp. n. and O. productus Zhi & Chen, sp. n., and a new record, O. yoshikawai (Ishihara, 1961), are described and illustrated from China. Female genitalia of five species within this genus are compared morphologically: O. laminatus Zhi & Chen, sp. n., O. mori (Matsumura, 1914), O. productus Zhi & Chen, sp. n., O. sinicus (Jacobi, 1944) and O. yoshikawai (Ishihara, 1961). A key to five Chinese species based on female genitalia, and a key to all known species of Oecleopsis based on male genitalia, are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Macrocheles kekensis sp. n., a new macrochelid mite associated with a centoniin beetle from Hungary (Acari, Mesostigmata)
A new species, Macrocheles kekensis sp. n., is described based from three specimens associated with a cetoniin beetle (Hoplia hungarica Burmeister, 1844). The new species differs from the other known European macrochelid species in having 29 pairs of dorsal setae, j1 and z1 short and robust, other dorsal setae long and pilose, and the absence of apodemes between the genital and ventrianal shields. This is the 34th Hungarian macrochelid species.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Taxonomy of the ant genus Carebara Westwood (Formicidae, Myrmicinae) in the Malagasy Region
The genus Carebara is revised for the Malagasy region, and based on the examination of over 10,000 specimens, twenty-three species are recognized. Twenty one of these are described as new (C. bara sp. n., C. berivelo sp. n., C. betsi sp. n., C. creolei sp. n., C. demeter sp. n., C. dota sp. n., C. hainteny sp. n., C. hiragasy sp. n., C. jajoby sp. n., C. kabosy sp. n., C. lova sp. n., C. mahafaly sp. n., C. malagasy sp. n., C. omasi sp. n., C. placida sp. n., C. raberi sp. n., C. salegi sp. n., C. sampi sp. n., C. tana sp. n., C. tanana sp. n., C. vazimba sp. n.), and two are redescribed, C. grandidieri Forel (= C. voeltzkowi Forel n. syn.) and C. nosindambo Forel. A lectotype is designated for C. nosindambo. C. creolei sp. n. is known only from Mauritius and Seychelles, C. grandidieri Forel is distributed in Comoros, Madagascar and Mayotte, and the other twenty-one species are endemic to Madagascar. Most of the Carebara species recorded in this work are endemic to a specific habitat (ecoregion), but some of them (C. bara sp. n., C. grandidieri Forel, C. jajoby sp. n., C. kabosy sp. n., and C. nosindambo Forel) are widespread within Madagascar across all major habitats. The worker caste of Carebara can be differentiated from other genera in the Myrmicinae subfamily by the presence of the following combination of characters: antennae of eight to eleven segments, with a two-segmented club; anterior clypeal margin without central isolated seta (rarely present in some species or specimens), and usually with four distinct setae; mandibles with four to seven teeth (except in one species from Ghana - C. crigensis with three teeth); and palp formula 2,2 or 1,2. We report that almost all Carebara species found in the Malagasy region have intermediates (distinct forms) in the major worker subcaste, with the largest major workers showing remnants of queen flight sclerites and ocelli. The widespread presence of intermediates in the major worker subcaste expands the morphological boundaries of Carebara. We present an overview of the natural history of Carebara in the Malagasy region, an illustrated key for the identification of the known Malagasy species of Carebara, as well as high-resolution images and distribution maps. Unique identifiers are used for all specimens studied, including type material, and the raw data that forms the basis of this study are available on www.antweb.org (open access).
["Carebara"]

Systematics of South American snail-eating snakes (Serpentes, Dipsadini), with the description of five new species from Ecuador and Peru
A molecular phylogeny of the Neotropical snail-eating snakes (tribe Dipsadini) is presented including 43 (24 for the first time) of the 77 species, sampled for both nuclear and mitochondrial genes. Morphological and phylogenetic support was found for four new species of Dipsas and one of Sibon, which are described here based on their unique combination of molecular, meristic, and color pattern characteristics. Sibynomorphus is designated as a junior subjective synonym of Dipsas. Dipsas latifrontalis and D. palmeri are resurrected from the synonymy of D. peruana. Dipsas latifasciata is transferred from the synonymy of D. peruana to the synonymy of D. palmeri. A new name, D. jamespetersi, is erected for the taxon currently known as Sibynomorphus petersi. Re-descriptions of D. latifrontalis and D. peruana are presented, as well as the first photographic voucher of an adult specimen of D. latifrontalis, along with photographs of all known Ecuadorian Dipsadini species. The first country record of D. variegata in Ecuador is provided and D. oligozonata removed from the list of Peruvian herpetofauna. With these changes, the number of Dipsadini reported in Ecuador increases to 22, 18 species of Dipsas and four of Sibon.
["Dipsadini"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

A new species of Stenasellus Dollfus, 1897 from Iran, with a key to the western Asian species (Crustacea, Isopoda, Stenasellidae)
A new stenasellid isopod is described from Tashan Cave, Khuzestan Province, south-west Iran, belonging to the genus Stenasellus Dollfus, 1897. The first recorded species of Stenasellidae from Iran, Stenasellus tashanicus sp. n., is diagnosed by the presence of antennae with a minute squama bearing paired, long, robust setae; a maxilliped endite with six coupling hooks; and slender appendix masculina with an acute apex. A revised generic diagnosis is provided with a key to the six known western Asian Stenasellus species.
["Iran"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Description of the larva of Oecetis mizrain Malicky & Graf, 2012 (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae) and Lepidostoma scotti (Ulmer, 1930) (Trichoptera, Lepidostomatidae) from Chilimo Forest, Central Ethiopia
The Ethiopian caddisfly fauna comprises 85 species, including 10 Oecetis species and three Lepidostoma species. In this context we provide the first species-level descriptions of Ethiopian caddisfly larvae. We describe and illustrate the larvae of O. mizrain and L. scotti, with additional notes on their habitats and distribution.
["caddisfly larvae"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Traditional and confocal descriptions of a new genus and two new species of deep water Cerviniinae Sars, 1903 from the Southern Atlantic and the Norwegian Sea: with a discussion on the use of digital media in taxonomy (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Aegisthidae)
Aegisthidae is one of the most abundant and diverse families of harpacticoid copepods living in deep-sea benthos, and the phylogenetic relationships within the family are in state of flux. Females of two new deep-water species of harpacticoid copepods belonging to the Hase gen. n. (Aegisthidae: Cerviniinae) are described. The first taxonomic description of marine copepod species based on the combined use of interference and confocal microscopy for the study of the habitus and dissected appendages is presented here. CLSM (Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy) is a non-destructive method, comparable in quality to SEM (scanning electron microscopy) at the same magnifications. To observe and reconstruct in detail the habitus and dissected appendages, whole specimens and dissected parts were stained with Congo Red, mounted on slides with glycerine for CLSM and scanned under three visible-light lasers. Hase lagomorphicus gen. et sp. n. and Hase talpamorphicus gen. et sp. n. were collected from the sediments of the Southern Atlantic and the Norwegian Sea, from 2270 m and 5468 m depths, respectively. Hase gen. n. is included within Cerviniinae based on the caudal rami which are relatively divergent. Hase gen. n. is the sister taxon of Cerviniella based on the following synapomorphies: sturdy body, exopodites 1–3 of pereopods 1–3 heavily built, transformed into digging limbs, with strong outer and distal spines/setae, two-segmented endopod on the pereopods 2 and 3, and a reduced pereopod 5. Compared to Cerviniella, Hase gen. n. exhibits a more developed armature on the pereopod 1, which has outer and distal elements transformed into strong and long spines vs. stiff setae on Cerviniella.Hase gen. n. has one or two strong and long spines on the inner margin of the exopodite 3 of pereopod 4 and pereopod 5 is fused to the somite, ornamented with three distal setae. The telson of Hase gen. n. is subquadratic, and the furca is among the shortest yet described for Aegisthidae. The new species differ in a number of diagnostic characters, three of which are: a) the somite bearing pereopods 3 and 4 with latero-distal spiniform processes in H. talpamorphicus gen. et sp. n. but smooth in H. lagomorphicus gen. et sp. n., b) antenna is armed with three stout spines on the lateral inner margin of the exopod in H. talpamorphicus gen. et sp. n. and two proximal setae in H. lagomorphicus gen. et sp. n., and c) pereopod 4 exopodite 3 has two long and strong spines on the inner margin in H. lagomorphicus gen. et sp. n. and one spine in H. talpamorphicus gen. et sp. n. The high quality of CLSM images should foster discussion about the use of high quality digital images as type or as part of the type series in zoological studies, especially when studying rare and small macrofaunal and meiofaunal taxa.
["Arctic biodiversity"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Odontonia plurellicola sp. n. and Odontonia bagginsi sp. n., two new ascidian-associated shrimp from Ternate and Tidore, Indonesia, with a phylogenetic reconstruction of the genus (Crustacea, Decapoda, Palaemonidae)
Two new species of palaemonid shrimp associated with ascidian hosts, Odontonia bagginsi sp. n. from Tidore and Odontonia plurellicola sp. n., from Ternate, Indonesia are described and figured. Through phylogenetic analyses based on both morphological and molecular datasets (mitochondrial Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene and the 16S mitochondrial ribosomal gene) of the genus Odontonia, the phylogenetic positions of the new species have been reconstructed. Scanning Electron Microscopy has been used to observe additional characters on dactyli of the ambulatory pereiopods. Odontonia plurellicola sp. n. appears to be more closely related to O. simplicipes and O. seychellensis, but it differs most notably in the morphology of the rostrum and mouthparts. Odontonia plurellicola sp. n. appears to be the only Odontonia species living inside a phlebobranch ascidian Plurella sp. Odontonia bagginsi sp. n. is closely related to O. sibogae, but differs markedly in the abundance of setae on the propodi of the ambulatory pereiopods. In the present paper, O. maldivensis Fransen, 2006 is regarded as a junior synonym of O. rufopunctata Fransen, 2002 based on both morphological and molecular aspects.
["Ascidians"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Molecular data and species diagnosis in Essigella Del Guercio, 1909 (Sternorrhyncha, Aphididae, Lachninae)
Morphological and molecular data are used to describe three new species of Essigella (Sternorrhyncha: Aphididae: Lachninae): Essigella domenechi sp. n., Essigella gagnonae sp. n., and Essigella sorenseni sp. n.; and to re-establish as valid Essigella patchae Hottes, 1957, stat. n., until now considered a synonym of E. pini Wilson, 1919. The catalogue of Essigella species is updated. This study highlights the need and utility to use discreet DNA characters in aphid species diagnoses.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

A new species of Hyphessobrycon Durbin from northeastern Brazil: evidence from morphological data and DNA barcoding (Characiformes, Characidae)
A new species of Hyphessobrycon is described for the upper Munim and Preguiças river basins, northeastern Brazil, supported by morphological and molecular species delimitation methods. This new species belongs to the Hyphessobryconsensu stricto group, as it has the three main diagnostic character states of this assemblage: presence of a dark brown or black blotch on the dorsal fin, absence of a black midlateral stripe on its flank and the position of Weberian apparatus upward horizontal through dorsal margin of operculum. Our phylogenetic analysis also supported the allocation of the new species in this group; however, it was not possible to recover the species sister-group. Pristella maxillaris and Moenkhausia hemigrammoides were recovered as the sister-clade of the Hyphessobryconsensu stricto group.
["Hyphessobrycon"]

The taxonomic status of Petropedetes newtonii (Amphibia, Anura, Petropedetidae)
The taxon Petropedetes newtonii was described in 1895 by Bocage, from Bioko Island (Equatorial Guinea). This taxon, whose holotype is lost, has been misidentified since Boulenger’s revision of the genus in 1900 and its relationships with other taxa (P. vulpiae and P. johnstoni) is confusing. Currently, P. newtonii is considered a synonym of P. johnstoni. In this work, by revising morphological characters of non-webbed Petropedetes of Bioko, we demonstrate the morphological singularity of these specimens with respect to P. johnstoni and P. vulpiae and their association with the name Petropedetes newtonii. Consequently, we provide the subsequent designation of a neotype of P. newtonii and revalidate this species from its synonym with P. johnstoni.
["Bioko"]

Exploring Monacha cantiana (Montagu, 1803) phylogeography: cryptic lineages and new insights into the origin of the English populations (Eupulmonata, Stylommatophora, Hygromiidae)
Molecular analysis of nucleotide sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) and 16S ribosomal DNA (16SrDNA) as well as nuclear histone 3 (H3) and internal transcribed spacer 2 of rDNA (ITS2) gene fragments together with morphological analysis of shell and genitalia features showed that English, French and Italian populations usually assigned to Monacha cantiana consist of four distinct lineages (CAN-1, CAN-2, CAN-3, CAN-4). One of these lineages (CAN-1) included most of the UK (five sites) and Italian (five sites) populations examined. Three other lineages represented populations from two sites in northern Italy (CAN-2), three sites in northern Italy and Austria (CAN-3), and two sites in south-eastern France (CAN-4). The taxonomic and nomenclatural setting is only currently available for lineages CAN-1 and CAN-4; a definitive frame for the other two requires much more research. The lineage CAN-1 corresponds to the true M. cantiana (Montagu, 1803) because it is the only one that includes topotypical English populations. The relationships and genetic distances support the hypothesis of the Italian origin of this lineage which was probably introduced to England by the Romans. The lineage CAN-4 is attributed to M. cemenelea (Risso, 1826), for which a neotype has been designated and deposited. Its diagnostic sequences of COI, 16SrDNA, H3 and ITS2 genes have also been deposited in GenBank. Molecular and morphological (shell and genitalia) features showed that M. parumcincta (Rossmässler, 1834) is a distinct taxon from the M. cantiana lineages.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Two new species of the genus Dryopomorphus Hinton, 1936 from China (Coleoptera, Elmidae)
Two new species of the genus Dryopomorphus Hinton, 1936 are described from China: Dryopomorphus heineri sp. n. and D. ruiliensis sp. n. Habitus photographs and detailed line drawings of the male genitalia are provided.
["Dryopomorphus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

New species of Eurycletodes Sars, 1909 and Odiliacletodes Soyer, 1964 from the deep Gulf of California (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Argestidae)
To date, three species of the family Ancorabolidae, three species of the family Argestidae, and one species of the family Rhizothrichidae are known from the deep sea of the Gulf of California. The descriptions of two new species, Eurycletodes paraephippiger sp. n. and Odiliacletodes secundus sp. n. collected from the Southern Trough of Guaymas Basin at 1440 m and 1642 m depths, respectively, are presented herein. The closest relatives of these two species, E. ephippiger Por, 1964 and O. gracilis Soyer, 1964 are known from the Mediterranean, but some relatives have been reported also from the southern Atlantic. Eurycletodes paraephippiger sp. n. is undoubtedly related to E. ephippiger Por, 1964 known from Israel and Banyuls-sur-Mer (France). These two species can be separated by the armature complement of the basis of the maxillule, by the armature complement of the syncoxa of the maxilliped, and by the relative position of the anal operculum. Odiliacletodes secundus sp. n. showed to be closely related to O. gracilis Soyer, 1964 known from Banyuls-sur-Mer only. The latter two species can be separated by the armature complement of the syncoxa of the maxilliped, by the structure of the antenna, and by the inner armature complement of the third exopodal segment of the fourth swimming leg.
["Deep Sea"]

Taxonomic revision proves Trachusa pubescens (Morawitz, 1872) sensu lato to be a complex of allopatric and sympatric species in South-Eastern Europe and Western Asia (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Anthidiini)
Trachusa pubescens (Morawitz, 1872) s. l. has a distribution extending from south-eastern Europe over Anatolia and the Caucasus to Iran and Turkmenistan, and was formerly regarded as a species with high intraspecific variation. By means of an examination of 208 specimens from all parts of the distribution area, covering structural features of the head (mandibles, clypeus), the apical terga and the genitalia, the colouration pattern as well as a morphometric analysis of 26 body measurements with multivariate statistical methods (Principal Component Analysis, Discriminant Analysis), it was possible to assign the material to five species of which two are new to science (Trachusa balcanica sp. n. and T. hakkariensis sp. n.). Two taxa which had previously been described as “variations” or subspecies are elevated to species rank: T. verhoeffi (Mavromoustakis, 1955), stat. n. and T. maxima (Friese, 1931), stat. n. Additionally, some populations can be distinguished by their colouration pattern or by subtle differences in size or body shape, but these features are apparently of no taxonomic significance at the species level. Trachusa balcanica sp. n. and T. verhoeffi have distribution areas which do not overlap with any of the other members of the species group and can thus be characterised as allospecies. By contrast, the distribution areas of the other three species, T. pubescens, T. maxima and T. hakkariensis sp. n., overlap to a certain extent and they co-exist at least to some degree in sympatry. While they have been found in the same region, they have so far never been found together at exactly the same location and it is suggested that species divergence occurred in parallel with ecological differentiation. Niche partitioning such as flower preferences is a mechanism which may be invoked to explain this. Some specimens with intermediate characters were found, particularly in contact zones, and it is thought that some hybridisation may occur. A partly melanistic individual of T. balcanica sp. n. was found, which is probably the first described melanistic individual in the tribe Anthidiini.
["Anthidiini"]

Integrative taxonomy of a new and highly-diverse genus of onchidiid slugs from the Coral Triangle (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Onchidiidae)
A new genus of onchidiid slugs, Wallaconchis Goulding & Dayrat, gen. n., is described, including ten species. Five species were previously described but known only from the type material: Wallaconchis ater (Lesson, 1830), W. graniferum (Semper, 1880), W. nangkauriense (Plate, 1893), W. buetschlii (Stantschinsky, 1907), and W. gracile (Stantschinsky, 1907), all of which were originally classified in Onchidium Buchannan, 1800. Many new records are provided for these five species, which greatly expand their known geographic distributions. Five species are new: Wallaconchis achleitneri Goulding, sp. n., W. comendadori Goulding & Dayrat, sp. n., W. melanesiensis Goulding & Dayrat, sp. n., W. sinanui Goulding & Dayrat, sp. n., and W. uncinus Goulding & Dayrat, sp. n. Nine of the ten Wallaconchis species are found in the Coral Triangle (eastern Indonesia and the Philippines). Sympatry is high, with up to six species found on the island of Bohol (Philippines) and eight species overlapping in northern Sulawesi (Indonesia). Wallaconchis is distinguished from other onchidiids by its bright dorsal colors (red, yellow, orange) but those are extremely variable and not useful for specific identification. Internally, the reproductive system can be used to identify all Wallaconchis species. The copulatory organs of Wallaconchis species are especially diverse compared to other onchidiid genera, and the possible role of reproductive incompatibility in species diversification is discussed. All specimens examined were freshly collected for the purpose of a worldwide revision of the Onchidiidae Rafinesque, 1815. The species are well delineated using DNA sequences and comparative anatomy. Mitochondrial DNA analysis yields thirteen molecular units separated by a large barcode gap, while nuclear DNA yields nine units. By integrating nuclear DNA and mitochondrial DNA with morphology, ten species are recognized. The natural history of each species (e.g., the microhabitat where they are found) is also documented. Nomenclature is addressed thoroughly (the types of all onchidiid species were examined, lectotypes were designated when needed, nomina dubia are discussed). Morphological characters, transitions to new microhabitats, and diversification processes are discussed in the context of a robust molecular phylogeny.
["Euthyneura"]

Anuran species composition of Cancão Municipal Natural Park, Municipality of Serra do Navio, Amapá state, Brazil
In this study, the first survey of anuran species in the Cancão Municipal Natural Park is presented, a protected area of approximately 370 hectares of Amazonian forest located in the northwest center region of the state of Amapá, Brazil. The work was performed during the dry and rainy season, through active visual and auditory survey, totaling 216 man hours of sampling effort. Forty-nine species of anuran amphibians were recorded in the Cancão Municipal Natural Park, including three new records: Hyalinobatrachium iaspidiense, Pristimantis cf. ockendeni, and Scinax garbei. Three species, Hyalinobatrachium iaspidiense, Ameerega pulchripecta, and Anomaloglossus baeobatrachus, are listed as Data Deficient and one is listed as Vulnerable (Atelopus hoogmoedi) according red lists of IUCN. The rarefaction curve cumulative species did not reach an asymptote, indicating that site has potential for species that have not yet been recorded. Nine species were represented by only one individual and were considered rare in the studied environments, eight species were defined as common, and the 32 remaining species were classified as having intermediary abundance. Our data indicated that Cancão Municipal Natural Park contains a considerable portion of the anurans species richness of Amapá state, turn the area into a place of great importance for the conservation of the anurans of the Eastern Amazon.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Plectranthias ahiahiata, a new species of perchlet from a mesophotic ecosystem at Rapa Nui (Easter Island) (Teleostei, Serranidae, Anthiadinae)
A new species of the perchlet genus Plectranthias is herein described from a single specimen found at Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in the South Pacific. Plectranthias ahiahiata sp. n. was collected at a depth of 83 m in a mesophotic coral ecosystem at Rapa Nui. The main difference between Plectranthias ahiahiata and other members of the genus is higher fin-ray counts (X, 18 dorsal; 18 pectoral) and its distinctive coloration. Compared to the three other known eastern South Pacific species, P. ahiahiata has more dorsal-fin rays, more pectoral-fin rays, fewer tubed lateral-line scales, fewer gill rakers, a longer head relative to SL, a very short first dorsal spine relative to SL, and a short third anal spine relative to SL. Plectranthias ahiahiata is distinguished from western Pacific species, by having more dorsal- and pectoral-fin rays. The closest relative based on genetic divergence (with 12.3% uncorrected divergence in the mitochondrial COI gene) is Plectranthias winniensis, a widely distributed species, suggesting important links between Rapa Nui and western Pacific islands. This new species adds to the high endemism of the Rapa Nui ichthyofauna, and is further evidence of the importance of mesophotic reefs as unique communities.
["endemism"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Two new species of the purse-web spider genus Atypus Latreille, 1804 from Hainan Island, China (Araneae, Atypidae)
Two species of the purse-web spider genus Atypus Latreille, 1804 collected from Hainan Island, China, are diagnosed and described as new to science based on genital morphology, A. baotingensis sp. n. (♂♀) and A. jianfengensis sp. n. (♀). The DNA barcodes of the two species are also provided for future use.
["Atypidae"]

A new species of Dicranocentrus Schött from Hainan (China) with a key to the Chinese species of the genus (Collembola, Entomobryidae)
A new species, Dicranocentrus hainanicus Ren & Zhang, sp. n., is described from Hainan Province, China. Complete tergal chaetotaxy including microchaetae is illustrated and discussed. It is characterized by having the dental spines arranged in 2–3 rows, two inner teeth on unguis, 5, 2, 2 central macrochaetae on Abd. I–III, two inner S-chaetae on Abd. V displaced anteriorly, and the additional microchaetae associated with the S-chaeta acc.p6 on Th. II–Abd. II. It is most similar to D. chenae Ma, Chen & Soto-Adames but differs from the latter in the number and arrangement of dental spines and the absence of macrochaeta Pa1 on dorsal head. A key to the Chinese species of the genus is provided.
["chaetotaxy"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Description of a new species Gyraulus (Pulmonata: Planorbidae) from the land thermal spring Khakusy of Lake Baikal
A new species of the family Planorbidae is described from the land thermal spring Khakusy, on the north-eastern shore of Lake Baikal. The description of Gyraulus takhteevi sp. n. includes morphological characters and gene sequences (COI of mtDNA) for the species separation from sister taxon Gyraulus acronicus (A. Férussac, 1807) collected from the small Krestovka River in-flowing into the south-western part of the Lake. The new species differs from G. acronicus in small shell size of adults, having smaller number of prostate folds (maximal up to 26 in G. takhteevi n. sp. vs. 40 in G. acronicus), a short preputium (approximately twice shorter than the phallotheca), and an elongated bursa copulatrix. The population of Gyraulus takhteevi sp. n. consists of two co-existent morphs: one of them has a narrow shell spire and the second is characterized by wide spire similar to the shell of G. acronicus. One of the two revealed haplotypes of the new species includes both morphs, while the second consists of snails with wide spired shells.
["COI mtDNA"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A new species of Malletia (Bivalvia, Malletiidae) and new records of deep-water bivalves from Pacific Southern Colombia
In order to enhance the understanding of Pacific Colombia’s deep-water marine fauna, a benthic research cruise (2012 TUM Offshore 6 and 7) was conducted off the coast of the Department of Nariño, in southern Colombia. Biological, oceanographic and sediment samples from the continental shelf and slope were collected at depths between 350 and 941 m. A new species of Malletia obtained on that cruise is described and compared with other species from the eastern Pacific. Sixteen species of bivalve mollusks (belonging to 12 families and 15 genera) were identified. Five of them were the first records for Pacific Colombia (Jupiteria lobula, Limatula saturna, Lucinoma heroica, Cuspidaria panamensis, and Dallicordia alaskana). Four of them had geographic distributions that now extend to Tumaco at the southern end of Nariño.
["Bivalvia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

Four species of spider genus Cheiracanthium C. L. Koch, 1839 (Araneae, Eutichuridae) from Jinggang Mountains, Jiangxi Province, China
Four species of spider genus Cheiracanthium C. L. Koch, 1839 are reported from Jinggang Mountains, Jiangxi Province, China. Two of them are described as new to science: C. auriculatum sp. n. (♀♂) and C. echinulatum sp. n. (♂). Cheiracanthium taiwanicum Chen, Huang, Chen & Wang, 2006 is recorded from Mainland China for the first time. Cheiracanthium zhejiangense Hu & Song, 1982, the most similar species to C. auriculatum sp. n., is a newly recorded species of Jiangxi Province. Detailed descriptions, diagnoses, and photographs of the two new species are given. Cheiracanthium taiwanicum and C. zhejiangense are also illustrated.

A revision of dragon millipedes I: genus Desmoxytes Chamberlin, 1923, with the description of eight new species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The dragon millipede genus Desmoxytes s.l. is split into five genera, based on morphological characters and preliminary molecular phylogenetic analyses. The present article includes a review of Desmoxytes s.s., while future articles will deal with Hylomus Cook and Loomis, 1924 and three new genera which preliminarily are referred to as the ‘acantherpestes’, ‘gigas’, and ‘spiny’ groups. Diagnostic morphological characters of each group are discussed. Hylomus is resurrected as a valid genus and the following 33 species are assigned to it: H. asper (Attems, 1937), comb. n., H. cattienensis (Nguyen, Golovatch & Anichkin, 2005), comb. n., H. cervarius (Attems, 1953), comb. n., H. cornutus (Zhang & Li, 1982), comb. n., H. draco Cook & Loomis, 1924, stat. rev., H. enghoffi (Nguyen, Golovatch & Anichkin, 2005), comb. n., H. eupterygotus (Golovatch, Li, Liu & Geoffroy, 2012), comb. n., H. getuhensis (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2014), comb. n., H. grandis (Golovatch, VandenSpiegel & Semenyuk, 2016), comb. n., H. hostilis (Golovatch & Enghoff, 1994), comb. n., H. jeekeli (Golovatch & Enghoff, 1994), comb. n., H. lingulatus (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2014), comb. n., H. laticollis (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2016), comb. n., H. longispinus (Loksa, 1960), comb. n., H. lui (Golovatch, Li, Liu & Geoffroy, 2012), comb. n., H. minutuberculus (Zhang, 1986), comb. n., H. nodulosus (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2014), comb. n., H. parvulus (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2014), comb. n., H. phasmoides (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2016), comb. n., H. pilosus (Attems, 1937), comb. n., H. proximus (Nguyen, Golovatch & Anichkin, 2005), comb. n., H. rhinoceros (Likhitrakarn, Golovatch & Panha, 2015), comb. n., H. rhinoparvus (Likhitrakarn, Golovatch & Panha, 2015), comb. n., H. scolopendroides (Golovatch, Geoffroy & Mauriès, 2010), comb. n., H. scutigeroides (Golovatch, Geoffroy & Mauriès, 2010), comb. n., H. similis (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2016), comb. n., H. simplex (Golovatch, VandenSpiegel & Semenyuk, 2016), comb. n., H. simplipodus (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2016), comb. n., H. specialis (Nguyen, Golovatch & Anichkin, 2005), comb. n., H. spectabilis (Attems, 1937), comb. n., H. spinitergus (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2016), comb. n., H. spinissimus (Golovatch, Li, Liu & Geoffroy, 2012), comb. n. and H. variabilis (Liu, Golovatch & Tian, 2016), comb. n. Desmoxytes s.s. includes the following species: D. breviverpa Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, 2016; D. cervina (Pocock,1895); D. delfae (Jeekel, 1964); D. des Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, 2016; D. pinnasquali Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, 2016; D. planata (Pocock, 1895); D. purpurosea Enghoff, Sutcharit & Panha, 2007; D. takensis Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, 2016; D. taurina (Pocock, 1895); D. terae (Jeekel, 1964), all of which are re-described based mainly on type material. Two new synonyms are proposed: Desmoxytes pterygota Golovatch & Enghoff, 1994, syn. n. (= Desmoxytes cervina (Pocock, 1895)), Desmoxytes rubra Golovatch & Enghoff, 1994, syn. n. (= Desmoxytes delfae (Jeekel, 1964)). Six new species are described from Thailand: D. aurata Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., D. corythosaurus Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., D. euros Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., D. flabella Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., D. golovatchi Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., D. octoconigera Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., as well as one from Malaysia: D. perakensis Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n., and one from Myanmar: D. waepyanensis Srisonchai, Enghoff & Panha, sp. n. The species can mostly be easily distinguished by gonopod structure in combination with other external characters; some cases of particularly similar congeners are discussed. All species of Desmoxytes s.s. seem to be endemic to continental Southeast Asia (except the ‘tramp’ species D. planata). Some biological observations (relationship with mites, moulting) are recorded for the first time. Complete illustrations of external morphological characters, an identification key, and distribution maps of all species are provided.
["Ruttapon Srisonchai", "Henrik Enghoff", "Natdanai Likhitrakarn", "Somsak Panha"]
["aposematic"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Study of Mite Species", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

The genus Phyllomyza Fallén from China, with descriptions of three new species (Diptera, Milichiidae)
The following three species of the genus Phyllomyza Fallén from China are described as new to science: P. guangxiensis sp. n., P. luteigenis sp. n., and P. quadratpalpus sp. n. A key to the known species of Phyllomyza from China is presented.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

The freshwater crabs of Danum Valley Conservation Area in Sabah, East Malaysia, with a description of a new species of Thelphusula Bott, 1969 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Gecarcinucidae, Potamidae, Sesarmidae)
Seven species of freshwater crabs from three families are recorded from and around the Danum Valley Conservation Area in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo: Thelphusula capillodigitus sp. n., Thelphusula dicerophilus Ng & Stuebing, 1990, Arachnothelphusa terrapes Ng, 1991, Terrathelphusa secula Ng & Tan, 2015, Parathelphusa valida Ng & Goh, 1987 (new record) (Gecarcinucidae); Isolapotamon ingeri Ng & Tan, 1998 (Potamidae); and Geosesarma danumense Ng, 2002 (Sesarmidae). The new species of Thelphusula Bott, 1979, can be distinguished from all congeners by a unique combination of morphological features, most notably the presence of dense patches of short setae on the fingers of the adult male chelipeds, as well as the structure of the male first gonopod. Arachnothelphusa terrapes is confirmed to be a phytotelm species. A key to all species in the conservation area is provided.

A new species of Melita from Japan (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Melitidae)
A new brackish-water species of melitid amphipod, Melita choshigawaensis, from the Choshigawa River, Mie Prefecture, Japan, is named and described. Melita choshigawaensis sp. n. is distinguished from the most similar M. shimizui (Uéno, 1940) by having an elongate and weakly arched male uropod 3, and a deep and strongly hooked anterior lobe of the coxa on the female’s pereopod 6. Nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) of M. choshigawaensis and M. shimizui support divergence at the species level. A key to the Japanese species of Melita is provided.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A new Sky Island species of Vaejovis C. L. Koch, 1836 from Sonora, Mexico (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae)
Vaejovis islaserrano sp. n. is described from the Sierras Elenita and La Mariquita, Municipio de Cananea, Sonora, Mexico. This species belongs to the “vorhiesi” group of the genus Vaejovis and inhabits pine-oak forests in northern Mexico. This species is compared to its most similar species. This new species presents an interesting morphological difference from the rest of the species in the species-group: the absence of a subaculear tubercle or spine.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Two new species of the millipede family Cambalopsidae from Myanmar (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida)
Two new species of cave-dwelling millipedes are described from Myanmar, one each in the genera Plusioglyphiulus Silvestri, 1923 and Trachyjulus Peters, 1864. Plusioglyphiulus digitiformis sp. n. joins the small peculiar group of congeners from Thailand which is characterized by such plesiomorphies as the tergal crests on the collum and following metaterga being transversely divided into two, not three parts, as in species of the genus Glyphiulus Gervais, 1847. However, this new species differs by the 3-segmented telopodites of ♂ legs 1, the anterior gonopodal coxosternum showing higher and nearly straight apicomesal processes and very evident apicolateral teeth, as well as the higher and acuminate paramedian coxal processes of the posterior gonopods, the latter’s telopodites demonstrating an apical fovea bearing a group of microsetae at the bottom. Trachyjulus bifidus sp. n. is primarily distinguished by the telopodites of their anterior gonopods being strikingly and deeply bifid. A key to the five species of Cambalopsidae currently known to occur in Myanmar is presented, and a map showing their distributions given.
["diplopod"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Notes on some toad bugs from China (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Gelastocoridae)
The three species of Nerthra Say, 1832 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Gelastocoridae) occurring in China are reviewed. Dorsal habitus photographs of the two species, Nerthra asiatica (Horváth, 1892) and Nerthra indica (Atkinson, 1889), are provided, accompanied by illustrations of male genitalic structures and female ventral aspect of posterior abdominal segments. The male of Nerthra asiatica is recorded and reviewed for the first time.
["Hemiptera"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Anomaloglossus meansi sp. n., a new Pantepui species of the Anomaloglossus beebei group (Anura, Aromobatidae)
Recent extinctions and drastic population declines have been documented in the Guiana Shield endemic frog genus Anomaloglossus, hence the importance to resolve its alpha-taxonomy. Based on molecular phylogenies, the literature has long reported the occurrence of an undescribed species in the Pakaraima Mountains of Guyana in the Pantepui region. We here describe this new taxon and demonstrate that in addition to divergence at the molecular level the new species differs from congeners by a unique combination of morphological characters, notably a small size (maximum SVL in males 18.86 mm, maximum SVL in females 21.26 mm), Finger I = Finger II when fingers adpressed, Finger III swollen in breeding males, fringes on fingers absent, toes basally webbed but lacking fringes, in life presence of a thin dorsolateral stripe from tip of snout to tip of urostyle, and a black throat in preserved males (immaculate cream in females). Virtually nothing is known about the ecology of the new species. We suggest the new species to be considered as Data Deficient according to IUCN standards.
["Aromobatidae"]

Three new species of Thelepus Leuckart, 1849 from Europe and a re-description of T. cincinnatus (Fabricius, 1780) (Annelida, Terebellidae)
The review of a large amount of material previously identified as the terebellid annelid, Thelepus cincinnatus (Fabricius, 1780) shows that, within European waters from the Mediterranean to the North Pole, this species should be split into four species, three of which (T. davehalli sp. n., T. marthae sp. n., and T. parapari sp. n.) are newly described here and T. cincinnatus s. str. is re-described. These four species each show distinct distribution ranges. Thelepus cincinnatus has notopodia on almost all segments and numerous eyespots; it inhabits the high boreal and arctic shelf and the North Atlantic slope, and probably also occurs on the North Pacific shelf and slope. Thelepus marthae sp. n. has no eyespots and inhabits deep waters of the high Arctic. Thelepus davehalli sp. n. has no eyespots and has notopodia on 1/2 to 2/3 of the anterior of the body; it inhabits boreal shelf waters (from Iceland to the Mediterranean) below the tidal front. Thelepus parapari sp. n. differs from the previous three species in that the uncini of the first uncinigerous segment has two teeth above the main fang; it inhabits shallow, coastal waters of the Mediterranean, inshore from the tidal front.
["cosmopolitan species"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and environmental studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Porifera collection of the Italian National Antarctic Museum (MNA), with an updated checklist from Terra Nova Bay (Ross Sea)
This new dataset presents occurrence data for Porifera collected in the Ross Sea, mainly in the Terra Nova Bay area, and curated at the Italian National Antarctic Museum (MNA, section of Genoa). Specimens were collected in 331 different sampling stations at depths ranging from 17 to 1,100 meters in the framework of 17 different Italian Antarctic expeditions funded by the Italian National Antarctic Research Program (PNRA). A total of 807 specimens, belonging to 144 morphospecies (i.e., 95 taxa identified at species level and 49 classified at least at the genus level) is included in the dataset. Nearly half (45%) of the species reported here correspond to species already known for Terra Nova Bay. Out of the remaining 55% previously unknown records, under a third (~29%) were classified at the species level, while over a quarter (~26%) were ascribed to the genus level only and these would require further study. All vouchers are permanently curated at the MNA and are available for study to the scientific community. A 3D model of an uncommon species from the Ross Sea, i.e. Tethyopsis brondstedi (Burton, 1929), is also presented and will be made available for outreach purposes.
["Antarctica"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

A rare and unusual new bittiine genus with two new species from the South Pacific (Cerithiidae, Gastropoda)
A new genus, Limatium gen. n., and two new species, L. pagodula sp. n. and L. aureum sp. n. are described, found on outer slopes of barrier reefs and fringing reefs in the South Pacific. They are rare for cerithiids, which typically occur in large populations. The two new species are represented by 108 specimens sampled over a period of 30 years, only 16 of which were collected alive. Three subadults from the Philippines and Vanuatu likely represent a third species. In addition to their rarity, Limatium species are atypical for cerithiids in their smooth, polished, honey to golden brown shells with distinctive white fascioles extending suture to suture. The radula presents a unique morphology that does not readily suggest an affinity to any of the cerithiid subfamilies. Two live-collected specimens, one of each species and designated as holotypes, were preserved in 95% ethanol and sequenced. Bayesian analysis of partial COI and 16S rDNA sequences demonstrates a placement in the Bittiinae, further extending our morphological concept of the subfamily.
["Bittiinae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Revision of genus Pericalus from China, with descriptions of four new species (Carabidae, Lebiini, Pericalina)
Nine taxa of the genus Pericalus Macleay from China are revised, with four new species described: Pericalus gibbosus sp. n. (type locality: Putao, Myanmar; one paratype from Mêdog, Xizang), Pericalus elegans sp. n. (type locality: Mêdog, Xizang), Pericalus acutidens sp. n. (type locality: Longchuan, Yunnan), and Pericalus obscuratus sp. n. (type locality: Fanjingshan, Guizhou). Four taxa are newly recorded from China: Pericalus ornatus ornatus Schmidt-Göbel (Yunnan, Hainan), P. obtusipennis Fedorenko (Yunnan), P. amplus Andrewes (Yunnan), and P. dux Andrewes (Yunnan). Pericalus formosanus Dupuis is newly ranked as a subspecies of P. ornatus Schmidt-Göbel. An improved key to world species of the subgenus Pericalus is provided, along with distribution maps and images of habitus and male and female genitalia for all Chinese species.
["Carabidae"]

Filling the BINs of life: Report of an amphibian and reptile survey of the Tanintharyi (Tenasserim) Region of Myanmar, with DNA barcode data
Despite threats of species extinctions, taxonomic crises, and technological advances in genomics and natural history database informatics, we are still distant from cataloguing all of the species of life on earth. Amphibians and reptiles are no exceptions; in fact new species are described nearly every day and many species face possible extinction. The number of described species continues to climb as new areas of the world are explored and as species complexes are examined more thoroughly. The use of DNA barcoding provides a mechanism for rapidly estimating the number of species at a given site and has the potential to record all of the species of life on Earth. Though DNA barcoding has its caveats, it can be useful to estimate the number of species in a more systematic and efficient manner, to be followed in combination with more traditional, morphology-based identifications and species descriptions. Herein, we report the results of a voucher-based herpetological expedition to the Tanintharyi (Tenasserim) Region of Myanmar, enhanced with DNA barcode data. Our main surveys took place in the currently proposed Tanintharyi National Park. We combine our results with photographs and observational data from the Chaung-nauk-pyan forest reserve. Additionally, we provide the first checklist of amphibians and reptiles of the region, with species based on the literature and museum. Amphibians, anurans in particular, are one of the most poorly known groups of vertebrates in terms of taxonomy and the number of known species, particularly in Southeast Asia. Our rapid-assessment program combined with DNA barcoding and use of Barcode Index Numbers (BINs) of voucher specimens reveals the depth of taxonomic diversity in the southern Tanintharyi herpetofauna even though only a third of the potential amphibians and reptiles were seen. A total of 51 putative species (one caecilian, 25 frogs, 13 lizards, 10 snakes, and two turtles) were detected, several of which represent potentially undescribed species. Several of these species were detected by DNA barcode data alone. Furthermore, five species were recorded for the first time in Myanmar, two amphibians (Ichthyophis cf. kohtaoensis and Chalcorana eschatia) and three snakes (Ahaetulla mycterizans, Boiga dendrophila, and Boiga drapiezii).
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Influence of habitat heterogeneity on anuran diversity in Restinga landscapes of the Parnaíba River delta, northeastern Brazil
Anurans have close associations with environmental conditions and therefore represent an interesting vertebrate group for examining how resource availability and environmental variables influence species diversity. Associations between habitat heterogeneity and anuran species diversity were tested in the Restinga landscapes of the Parnaíba River delta in northeastern Brazil. Twenty-one anuran species were sampled in the rainy season during monthly excursions (December 2015 to June 2016) into areas of Restinga on two islands in the Parnaíba River delta. The fourth highest anuran diversity was found in this type of environment in Brazil and is the third in northeastern Brazil. Microenvironments, characterized by a combination of vernal pools with different vegetational and physical structures, better explained anuran species composition in the Parnaíba River delta.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Conservation systematics of the shield-backed trapdoor spiders of the nigrum-group (Mygalomorphae, Idiopidae, Idiosoma): integrative taxonomy reveals a diverse and threatened fauna from south-western Australia
The aganippine shield-backed trapdoor spiders of the monophyletic nigrum-group of Idiosoma Ausserer s. l. are revised, and 15 new species are described from Western Australia and the Eyre Peninsula of South Australia: I. arenaceum Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. corrugatum Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. clypeatum Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. dandaragan Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. formosum Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. gardneri Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. gutharuka Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. incomptum Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. intermedium Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. jarrah Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. kopejtkaorum Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. kwongan Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. mcclementsorum Rix & Harvey, sp. n., I. mcnamarai Rix & Harvey, sp. n., and I. schoknechtorum Rix & Harvey, sp. n. Two previously described species from south-western Western Australia, I. nigrum Main, 1952 and I. sigillatum (O. P.-Cambridge, 1870), are re-illustrated and re-diagnosed, and complementary molecular data for 14 species and seven genes are analysed with Bayesian methods. Members of the nigrum-group are of long-standing conservation significance, and I. nigrum is the only spider in Australia to be afforded threatened species status under both State and Commonwealth legislation. Two other species, I. formosum Rix & Harvey, sp. n. and I. kopejtkaorum Rix & Harvey, sp. n., are also formally listed as Endangered under Western Australian State legislation. Here we significantly relimit I. nigrum to include only those populations from the central and central-western Wheatbelt bioregion, and further document the known diversity and conservation status of all known species.
["biodiversity hotspot"]

A revision of the cleptoparasitic bee genus Epeolus Latreille for Nearctic species, north of Mexico (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Herein, the cleptoparasitic (cuckoo) bee genus Epeolus (Hymenoptera: Apidae) is revised for species occurring in North America, north of Mexico, and an updated checklist of all species known to occur in Canada and the United States of America is provided with comprehensive descriptions, diagnoses, and a single dichotomous key (using the same couplets for both sexes) to aid in their identification. To increase their recognition among North American naturalists, English common names are also proposed for all North American Epeolus. A total of 43 species is confirmed as present in the region, 15 of which are newly recognized. The following new species are proposed based on unique morphological (and in most cases also molecular) attributes: E. andriyi sp. n., E. attenboroughi sp. n., E. axillaris sp. n., E. basili sp. n., E. brumleyi sp. n., E. chamaesarachae sp. n., E. deyrupi sp. n., E. diadematus sp. n., E. ferrarii sp. n., E. gibbsi sp. n., E. inornatus sp. n., E. nebulosus sp. n., E. packeri sp. n., E. splendidus sp. n., and E. tessieris sp. n. Of the 15, six (E. axillaris, E. brumleyi, E. chamaesarachae, E. diadematus, E. splendidus, and E. tessieris) were identified as new species under different names (nomina nuda) in an M.Sc. thesis by Richard L. Brumley in 1965, but until now they have not been formally described. Detailed morphological comparisons with some evidence from DNA barcoding support the following synonymies, one of which C was first proposed by Brumley (1965): a) E. melectimimus Cockerell and Sandhouse, syn. n., under E. asperatus Cockerell; b) E. crucis Cockerell, syn. n., under E. compactus Cresson; c) E. mesillae palmarum Linsley, syn. n., under E. mesillae (Cockerell); and d) E. weemsi Mitchell, syn. n., and e) E. vernalis Mitchell, syn. n., under E. ilicis Mitchell. Only one member of the almost entirely Neotropical “Trophocleptria group” (Epeolus bifasciatus Cresson) is confirmed as occurring north of Mexico, and is widespread East of the Rocky Mountains. Known floral associations are indicated for each species, as are suspected or known host species of Colletes Latreille. Evidence is presented that suggests further investigation into the possible synonymy of Colletes wickhami Timberlake under C. scopiventer Swenk is warranted.
["cleptoparasitic bee"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

A new Notomastus (Annelida, Capitellidae) species from Korean waters, with genetic comparison based on three gene markers
Notomastus koreanus sp. n., collected from the sublittoral muddy bottom of Korean waters, is described as a new species. The Korean new species closely resembles N. torquatus Hutchings & Rainer, 1979 in the chaetal arrangement and the details of abdominal segments, but differs in the position of genital pores and the absence of eyes. DNA sequences (mtCOI, 16S rRNA, and histone H3) of the new species were compared with all the available sequences of Notomastus species in the GenBank database. Three genes showed significant genetic differences between the new species and its congeners (COI: 51.2%, 16S: 38.1–47.3%, H3: 3.7–9.3%). This study also includes a comprehensive comparison of the new Korean Notomastus species with its most closely similar species, based on the morphological and genetic results.
["Polychaeta"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Characterization of the complete mitochondrial DNA of Theretra japonica and its phylogenetic position within the Sphingidae (Lepidoptera, Sphingidae)
In the present study, the complete mitogenome of Theretra japonica was sequenced and compared with other sequenced mitogenomes of Sphingidae species. The mitogenome of T. japonica, containing 37 genes (13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and two rRNA genes) and a region rich in adenine and thymine (AT-rich region), is a circular molecule with 15,399 base pairs (bp) in length. The order and orientation of the genes in the mitogenome are similar to those of other sequenced mitogenomes of Sphingidae species. All 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) are initiated by ATN codons except for the cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 gene (cox1) which is initiated by the codon CGA as observed in other lepidopteran insects. Cytochrome C oxidase subunit 2 gene (cox2) has the incomplete termination codon T and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 gene (nad1) terminates with TAG while the remainder terminates with TAA. Additionally, the codon distributions of the 13 PCGs revealed that Ile and Leu2 are the most frequently used codon families and codons CGG, CGC, CCG, CAG, and AGG are absent. The 431 bp AT-rich region includes the motif ATAGA followed by a 23 bp poly-T stretch, short tandem repeats (STRs) of TC and TA, two copies of a 28 bp repeat ‘ATTAAATTAATAAATTAA TATATTAATA’ and a poly-A element. Phylogenetic analyses within Sphingidae confirmed that T. japonica belongs to the Macroglossinae and showed that the phylogenetic relationship of T. japonica is closer to Ampelophaga rubiginosa than Daphnis nerii. Phylogenetic analyses within Theretra demonstrate that T. japonica, T. jugurtha, T. suffusa, and T. capensis are clustered into one clade.
["Lepidoptera"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A new, alpine species of Lissodesmus Chamberlin, 1920 from Tasmania, Australia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Dalodesmidae)
Lissodesmus nivalis sp. n. is described from 1450–1550 m elevation on the treeless, alpine Ben Lomond plateau in northeast Tasmania, Australia. The new species is distinguished from all other Tasmanian and Victorian Lissodesmus species by a unique combination of gonopod telopodite features: solenomere without a pre-apical process, tibiotarsus Y-shaped, femoral process L-shaped with forked tips, prefemoral process with a long comb of teeth below an irregularly dentate apical margin, and a roughened “shoulder process” near the base of the prefemoral process.
["Diplopoda"]

Evaluating the genus Cespitularia MilneEdwards & Haime, 1850 with descriptions of new genera of the family Xeniidae (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea)
Several species of the family Xeniidae, previously assigned to the genus Cespitularia Milne Edwards & Haime, 1850 are revised. Based on the problematical identity and status of the type of this genus, it became apparent that the literature has introduced misperceptions concerning its diagnosis. A consequent examination of the type colonies of Cespitularia coerulea May, 1898 has led to the establishment of the new genus Conglomeratusclera gen. n. and similarly to the assignment of Cespitularia simplex Thomson & Dean, 1931 to the new genus, Caementabunda gen. n. Both new genera are described and depicted and both feature unique sclerite morphology, further highlighting the importance of sclerite microstructure for generic position among Xeniidae. Freshly collected material was subjected to molecular phylogenetic analysis, whose results substantiated the taxonomic assignment of the new genera, as well as the synonymies of several others.
["Indo-Pacific Ocean"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Study on the Pauropoda from Tibet, China. Part I. The genera Decapauropus and Hemipauropus (Myriapoda)
Three new species of family Pauropodidae: Decapauropus biconjugarus Qian & Bu, sp. n., D. tibeticus Qian & Bu, sp. n. and Hemipauropus quadrangulus Qian & Bu, sp. n. are described and illustrated from southeastern Tibet, China. The genus Hemipauropus is recorded for the first time from China. This is the second report of pauropods from Tibet.
["diversity"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Three new species of Grouvellinus Champion, 1923 from Maliau Basin, Sabah, Borneo, discovered by citizen scientists during the first Taxon Expedition (Insecta, Coleoptera, Elmidae)
Further results are presented of the first field course at Maliau Basin, Malaysian Borneo organized by Taxon Expeditions, an organization which enables citizen scientists to be directly involved in taxonomic discoveries. Three new species of the aquatic beetle genus Grouvellinus Champion, 1923, namely G. leonardodicaprioi sp. n., G. andrekuipersi sp. n., and G. quest sp. n. were collected jointly by the citizen scientists and taxonomists during the fieldwork in Maliau Basin. Material was mainly sampled from sandstone bottom rocks of blackwater streams at altitudes between 900 m and 1,000 m using fine-meshed hand-nets. The genus is widely distributed in the Oriental and Palearctic regions, but these are the first records from the island of Borneo.
["Andr\u00e9 Kuipers"]

A taxonomic revision helps to clarify differences between the Atlantic invasive Ptilohyale littoralis and the Mediterranean endemic Parhyale plumicornis (Crustacea, Amphipoda)
Ptilohyale explorator (formerly Parhyale explorator), described by Arresti (1989), can be considered to be a synonym of west-Atlantic Ptilohyale littoralis (Stimpson, 1853), based on morphological observations of paratypes and specimens recently collected in the type locality of Ptilohyale explorator. The first collections of Ptilohyale littoralis, from the eastern Atlantic were from the port of Rotterdam (The Netherlands) in 2009 and later in Wimereux, Opal Coast (France) in 2014; however, the synonymy of Ptilohyale explorator with Ptilohyale littoralis backdates to the first European record of Ptilohyale littoralis in 1985 at La Vigne, Bay of Arcachon (France). This indicates that Ptilohyale littoralis has been established along European Atlantic coast for many years. An assessment of the nominal valid species belonging to the genus Ptilohyale was carried out and a comparison between the Atlantic Ptilohyale littoralis and the very similar Mediterranean hyalid species, Parhyale plumicornis, is presented based on morphological features and distribution. Due to the invasive ability of Ptilohyale littoralis, a comparison between the two species is necessary.
["Atlantic"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Three new species of the spider genus Plato and the new genus Cuacuba from caves of the states of Pará and Minas Gerais, Brazil (Araneae, Theridiosomatidae)
Three new species of the genus Plato from caves in the states of Pará and Minas Gerais, Brazil, are described. P. novalima sp. n., from Minas Gerais, is the first record of the genus in the southeastern region of Brazil. P. ferriferus sp. n. and P. striatus sp. n., from Carajás, Pará, north of Brazil, are also described. The former is an extremely abundant species, whereas the latter has only one known male specimen. Cuacuba gen. n. is proposed and represented by two new species, C. mariana sp. n. (type species) and C. morrodopilar sp. n., both from the state of Minas Gerais. Morphology of genitalia in Cuacuba gen. n. is similar to other Theridiosomatidae genera and is herein discussed. None of the proposed species presents troglomorphic adaptations. They are widespread, abundant inside caves in different and large karst areas, and each genus prefers different lithologies.
["biospeleology"]

Amphibians of the Reserva Ecológica Michelin: a high diversity site in the lowland Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia, Brazil
An inventory of the amphibians of the Reserva Ecológica Michelin – REM in southern Bahia, Brazil is presented. Sixty-nine species were recorded during a ten-year sampling period. Amphibians were distributed in two orders (Gymnophiona and Anura), belonging to twelve families [Aromobatidae (1), Bufonidae (3), Centrolenidae (1), Craugastoridae (5), Eleutherodactylidae (3), Hemiphractidae (2), Hylidae (34), Phyllomedusidae (5) Leptodactylidae (7), Microhylidae (4), Odontophrynidae (3) and Caeciliidae (1)]. Fifty per cent of the reproductive modes known for Atlantic forest anurans were recorded. While no threatened species were found at REM, six species are classified as data deficient (DD) by the Brazilian Red List of threatened species and deserve additional attention. Phasmahyla timbo and Vitreorana eurygnatha are listed as endangered in Bahia according to the list of threatened species of the state. Despite a higher diversity of amphibians in the Atlantic forest having been reported for mountainous regions, our results revealed that amphibian richness for lowland forests is also high.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

First description of the larva of Dinaraea Thomson, 1858, with comments on chaetotaxy, pupa, and life history based on two saproxylic species from Europe (Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae, Athetini)
The paper describes the morphological ultrastructure of the previously unknown early (L1) and late larval instars (L2–3) of Dinaraea, including chaetotaxy, pupal cocoon, prepupa, and pupa, based on the saproxylic species D. aequata Erichson and D. linearis Gravenhorst. Diagnostic larval characters for the genus Dinaraea are given for the first time. Morphological differences between mature larvae of these two species relate to the colouration and degree of flattening of the body, details of antennal structure, anterior margin of the labrum, mandibles, and mala. The differences are relatively small, probably because of the similar ecological preferences of both species. As in the case of other aleocharine larvae, L1 in Dinaraea differs from L2–3 in the lack of some setae on the dorsal surface of the head and thorax, and on the abdominal tergites and sternites; the presence of a subapical seta on the urogomphi; egg bursters on some thoracic and abdominal tergites; a darker antennal segment III; and the relatively longer urogomphi and their apical setae. The differences established in the features of the chaetotaxy of L1 and L2–3 between Athetini (Dinaraea), Oxypodini (Thiasophila) and Homalotini (Gyrophaena) correspond with the molecular marker-based relationships of these taxa.
["aequata"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of the land planarian Issoca sheds light on the polyphyletic status of the genus (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Geoplaninae)
A new species of the genus Issoca (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Geoplaninae) is described. Issoca assanga sp. n. presents the diagnostic features of the genus, with the exception of the relative position of the subneural parenchymal muscle layer with the cephalic retractor muscle, which are overlapped in the type species of the genus but are intersected in the new species. Rather than a polymorphic character, the relative position of these muscle layers might reflect the polyphyletic status of the genus.
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

A revision of “blanket-hermit crabs” of the genus Paguropsis Henderson, 1888, with the description of a new genus and five new species (Crustacea, Anomura, Diogenidae)
For 130 years the diogenid genus Paguropsis Henderson, 1888 was considered monotypic for an unusual species, P. typica Henderson, 1888, described from the Philippines and seldom reported since. Although scantly studied, this species is known to live in striking symbiosis with a colonial sea anemone that the hermit can stretch back and forth like a blanket over its cephalic shield and part of cephalothoracic appendages, and thus the common name “blanket-crab”. During a study of paguroid collections obtained during recent French-sponsored biodiversity campaigns in the Indo-West Pacific, numerous specimens assignable to Paguropsis were encountered. Analysis and comparison with types and other historical specimens deposited in various museums revealed the existence of five undescribed species. Discovery of these new species, together with the observation of anatomical characters previously undocumented or poorly described, including coloration, required a revision of the genus Paguropsis. The name Chlaenopagurus andersoni Alcock & McArdle, 1901, considered by Alcock (1905) a junior synonym of P. typica, proved to be a valid species and is resurrected as P. andersoni (Alcock, 1899). In two of the new species, the shape of the gills, length/width of exopod of maxilliped 3, width and shape of sternite XI (of pereopods 3), and armature of the dactyls and fixed fingers of the chelate pereopods 4, were found to be characters so markedly different from P. typica and other species discovered that a new genus for them, Paguropsina gen. n., is justified. As result, the genus Paguropsis is found to contain five species: P. typica, P. andersoni, P. confusa sp. n., P. gigas sp. n., and P. lacinia sp. n. Herein, Paguropsina gen. n., is proposed and diagnosed for two new species, P. pistillata gen. et sp. n., and P. inermis gen. et sp. n.; Paguropsis is redefined, P. typica and its previously believed junior synonym, P. andersoni, are redescribed. All species are illustrated, and color photographs provided. Also included are a summary of the biogeography of the two genera and all species; remarks on the significance of the unusual morphology; and remarks on knowledge of the symbiotic anemones used by the species. To complement the morphological descriptions and assist in future population and phylogenetic investigations, molecular data for mitochondrial COI barcode region and partial sequences of 12S and 16S rRNA are reported. A preliminary phylogenetic analysis using molecular data distinctly shows support for the separation of the species into two clades, one with all five species of Paguropsis, and another with the two species Paguropsina gen. n.
["Diogenidae"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The genus Rhynchobanchus Kriechbaumer in China, with descriptions of a new species and first record of the genus from Oriental region (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Banchinae)
Six species and two subspecies of the genus Rhynchobanchus Kriechbaumer, 1894 are reported from China, of which one, Rh. flavomaculatus Sheng, sp. n., is a new species and the first record of the genus from the Oriental Region. Rhynchobanchus flavopictus orientalis Kuslitzky, 2007 is a new Chinese record. A key to the species of Rhynchobanchus occurring in China is provided.
["Banchini"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

New identification of the moray eel Gymnothorax minor (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846) in China (Anguilliformes, Muraenidae)
A new identification of Gymnothorax minor (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846) is documented based on morphological characteristics and DNA barcoding. Sixty-one individuals of G. minor were collected from the East China Sea and the South China Sea. This species was previously reported as Gymnothorax reticularis Bloch, 1795 in China because of the similarity in external shape and color. Gymnothorax minor can be easily distinguished from G. reticularis by its color pattern of 18–20 irregular dark brown vertical bars and the body having scattered small brown spots. Additionally, the teeth are uniserial on both jaws, and the vertebrae number 137–139. By combining congener sequences of the cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene from GenBank, two groups were detected among all the COI sequences of the currently named G. minor, which further indicated that two valid species were present based on genetic distance. A divergence also occurred on the number of vertebrae between the northern and southern populations. The phylogenetic and morphological analysis strongly supports that the northern and southern populations of G. minor are two different species. Furthermore, the distribution area of the northern G. minor has expanded southward to 5°15'N in the South China Sea. More specimens of G. minor and G. reticularis are crucial in order to define their geographical distribution boundaries and provide the correct DNA barcoding.

A new species of Pristimantis (Anura, Craugastoridae) from the Cajas Massif, southern Ecuador
A new species of Pristimantis is described from the highland paramos on the eastern slopes of the Cajas Massif, southern Andes of Ecuador, at 3400 m. This new species is characterized by having a distinctive reddish color, cutaneous macroglands in suprascapular region and surfaces of arm and legs, and by lacking dentigerous processes of vomers. The cutaneous macroglands are similar to those exhibited by several species of the Pristimantis orcesi group, and may suggest a close phylogenetic relationship. The new species could be a latitudinal substitution of Pristimantis orcesi in the southern Andes of Ecuador.

Madicolous Chironomidae from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest: a checklist with notes on altitudinal distributions (Diptera, Insecta)
Thin layers of water running over rocky surfaces are characteristic of madicolous habitats, which harbor a peculiar Chironomidae community. However, information on the identity, distribution, and ecology of madicolous chironomids in the Neotropical region are still sparse. The main purpose of this research is to reveal and contribute to the ecology of madicolous Chironomidae species, especially regarding their altitudinal distribution in the Atlantic Forest. Sampling was performed using our own designed emergence traps deployed from 0 to 2700 m a.s.l. in 70 sites in three mountains in southeastern Brazil. Sixty taxa of chironomids were collected and identified, of which only 22 are known to science. Most of the species showed a wider distribution than previously known, both in terms of geographic and altitudinal ranges, while others showed significant association with particular altitudinal bands (as evidenced by the indicator species analysis). Atlantic Forest mountainous regions are known to harbor one of the richest fauna in the world and have been suffering from several types of environmental impacts, including climate change, which will especially affect taxa living in specialized habitats. The narrow range of tolerance to environmental conditions verified for mountain species, and the fact that many of them are rare and endemic, make the conservation efforts in these areas indispensable.
["hygropetric habitats"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

New species of the genus Mesocletodes Sars, 1909 from the deep Gulf of California (Copepoda, Harpacticoida)
Investigations on the effects of the oxygen minimum zone on the distribution, abundance, and diversity of deep-sea benthic and pelagic fauna of the Gulf of California and Eastern Tropical Pacific has received attention recently. However, very little is known about the diversity of deep-sea benthic harpacticoids from this region, and only three species, Ancorabolus hendrickxi Gómez & Conroy-Dalton, 2002, Ceratonotus elongatus Gómez & Díaz, 2017 and Dendropsyllus californiensis Gómez & Díaz, 2017, have been described so far. The genus Mesocletodes Sars, 1909 is one of the most common and abundant genera of deep-sea harpacticoids. This genus has been traditionally subdivided into two species groups, the abyssicola and the inermis groups, based on the presence/absence of a dorsal cuticular process on the cephalothorax and anal somite, but some species have been reported to deviate from this scheme. As a result of their investigations, other researchers proposed the monophyly of the abyssicola group, and suggested the probable monophyly of two other species-groups. In this paper, the descriptions of three new species of the genus Mesocletodes from the deep sea of the Gulf of California are presented with some notes on their relationships with other species. Some comments on the monophyly of the genus are given.
["Argestidae"]

Colobopsis explodens sp. n., model species for studies on “exploding ants” (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), with biological notes and first illustrations of males of the Colobopsis cylindrica group
A taxonomic description of all castes of Colobopsis explodens Laciny & Zettel, sp. n. from Borneo, Thailand, and Malaysia is provided, which serves as a model species for biological studies on “exploding ants” in Southeast Asia. The new species is a member of the Colobopsis cylindrica (COCY) group and falls into a species complex that has been repeatedly summarized under the name Colobopsis saundersi (Emery, 1889) (formerly Camponotus saundersi). The COCY species group is known under its vernacular name “exploding ants” for a unique behaviour: during territorial combat, workers of some species sacrifice themselves by rupturing their gaster and releasing sticky and irritant contents of their hypertrophied mandibular gland reservoirs to kill or repel rivals. This study includes first illustrations and morphometric characterizations of males of the COCY group: Colobopsis explodens Laciny & Zettel, sp. n. and Colobopsis badia (Smith, 1857). Characters of male genitalia and external morphology are compared with other selected taxa of Camponotini. Preliminary notes on the biology of C. explodens Laciny & Zettel, sp. n. are provided. To fix the species identity of the closely related C. badia, a lectotype from Singapore is designated. The following taxonomic changes within the C. saundersi complex are proposed: Colobopsis solenobia (Menozzi, 1926), syn. n. and Colobopsis trieterica (Menozzi, 1926), syn. n. are synonymized with Colobopsis corallina Roger, 1863, a common endemic species of the Philippines. Colobopsis saginata Stitz, 1925, stat. n., hitherto a subspecies of C. badia, is raised to species level.
["autothysis"]

A new species of Neopanorpa with an extremely long notal organ from Sichuan, China (Mecoptera, Panorpidae)
Neopanorpa setigera sp. n. is described and illustrated from Sichuan, China. It is characterized by an extremely long notal process, a well-developed postnotal organ, and a pair of setiferous gonostyli. This is the second species of Neopanorpa van der Weele with an extremely long notal organ in Sichuan. A key to Sichuan species of Neopanorpa is provided.
["Gonostylus"]

Isotomidae of Japan and the Asiatic part of Russia. I. Folsomia ‘inoculata’ group
The paper considers blind species of the genus Folsomia having two pairs of macrosetae on both meso- and metathorax and united in so-called ‘inoculata’ group, which is given a new, more laconic definition. Morphological characters important in the group’s taxonomy are discussed and a further division into four subgroups is proposed. Eight new species, i.e., F. amurica Potapov & Kuznetsova, sp. n., F. breviseta Potapov & Kuznetsova, sp. n., F. calcarea Potapov, sp. n., F. imparis Potapov & Hasegawa, sp. n., F. laconica Potapov & Kuznetsova, sp. n., F. tertia Potapov, sp. n., F. trisensilla Potapov, sp. n., and F. tubulata Potapov & Babenko, sp. n., are described. F. hidakana Uchida & Tamura and F. inoculata Stach are redescribed basing on new material, for the latter species the Stach’s individuals were also examined. A key to species of the group is given.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

High-speed duetting – latency times of the female acoustic response within the bush-cricket genera Leptophyes and Andreiniimon (Orthoptera, Phaneropteridae)
To find a mate, male and female bush-crickets of the family Phaneropteridae typically engage in duets. The male sings and the female responds. For mutual recognition, the amplitude pattern of the male song and the species-specific timing of the female response have been shown to be very important. In the seven studied species, belonging to the genera Leptophyes and Andreiniimon, these duets are extremely fast and nearly completely in the ultrasonic range. The females produce very short sounds by fast closing movements of the tegmina. They respond with species-specific delays of 20 to 150 ms after the beginning of the male song. The different latency times are probably not important for species recognition, since in sympatric species they are quite similar.
["Phaneropterinae"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new synonym in the subfamily Thrigmopoeinae Pocock, 1900 (Araneae, Theraphosidae)
As the species Haploclastus devamatha Prasanth & Jose, 2014 is indistinguishable from Thrigmopoeus psychedelicus Sanap & Mirza, 2014, the latter is herein considered junior synonym of the former. Occurrence of polychromatism in H. devamatha is noted, and two distinct colour morphs of the species are recognised, a pink form and a blue form. The natural history and conservation of the species are discussed and its known distribution is updated.
["India"]

Ptomaphaginus troglodytes sp. n., the first anophthalmic species of Ptomaphaginina from China (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae, Ptomaphagini)
Ptomaphaginus troglodytes sp. n., the first anophthalmic species of Ptomaphaginus Portevin, 1914 is described from two close caves in Libo Karst, south Guizhou Province, China.
["Anophthalmy"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Initial commented checklist of Iranian mayflies, with new area records and description of Procloeon caspicum sp. n. (Insecta, Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
An initial checklist of mayflies (Ephemeroptera) of Iran is compiled based on critical review of available literature data, complemented with new data from 38 localities of Gilan and Ardabil provinces. At present, altogether only 46 species and 25 genera are known from Iran, 18 species are reported as new to Iran in this study. Some previously published data are critically evaluated and doubtful taxa are excluded from the list. Basic analysis of the distribution and biogeography of recorded species is given. Procloeon (Pseudocentroptilum) caspicum Sroka, sp. n. is described based on mature larva and egg. Critical differential diagnostic characters distinguishing the species from related taxa are discussed in detail.
["aquatic biodiversity"]

The smallest known species of Afrotropical Scolytoplatypus Schaufuss (Curculionidae, Scolytinae) – with unique features and an isolated phylogenetic position
Recent flight intercept trapping in Gabon provided four female specimens of a new species of Scolytoplatypus Schaufuss with several unusual features. It is the smallest known Afrotropical species found to date (1.6 mm long), it has unusually long antennal clubs, and some characters show resemblance to small Asian species or to the Malagasy genus Remansus Jordal. Genetic data from four genes nevertheless place this species as the sister lineage to all other Afrotropical species where it forms an isolated position corresponding to deviant morphological features.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Seven new freshwater species of Gammarus from southern China (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridae)
Seven new species of the genus Gammarus are described and illustrated from southern China. The new species Gammarus vallecula Hou & Li, sp. n., G. qinling Hou & Li, sp. n., G. zhigangi Hou & Li, sp. n. and G. jidutanxian Hou & Li, sp. n. are characterized by inner ramus of uropod III half the length of outer ramus. Gammarus longdong Hou & Li, sp. n. is characterized by inner ramus of uropod III 0.9 times as long as outer ramus. Gammarus mosuo Hou & Li, sp. n. is characterized by pereopods V–VII with long setae on anterior margins and both rami of uropod III armed with simple setae. Gammarus caecigenus Hou & Li, sp. n. can be distinguished from other species by eyes absent. DNA barcodes of the new species are documented as proof of molecular differences between species. A key to the new species and a map of their distributions are provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A review of the genus Takecallis Mastumura in Korea with the description of a new species (Hemiptera, Aphididae)
The aphid genus, Takecallis Mastumura, 1917, was reviewed from Korea. Four species, T. alba Y. Lee, sp. n., T. arundicolens (Clarke), T. arundinariae (Essig), and T. taiwana (Takahashi), are recognized in Korea and morphological and molecular evidence are presented. Species descriptions and illustrations are given for the four species. A key to Korean species and the results of COI sequence analyses are also provided.
["Aphid"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Molecular and morphological differentiation of Secret Toad-headed agama, Phrynocephalus mystaceus, with the description of a new subspecies from Iran (Reptilia, Agamidae)
The morphological and genetic variation of a wide-ranging Secret Toad-headed agama, Phrynocephalus mystaceus that inhabits sand deserts of south-eastern Europe, Middle East, Middle Asia, and western China is reviewed. Based on the morphological differences and high divergence in COI (mtDNA) gene sequences a new subspecies of Ph. mystaceus is described from Khorasan Razavi Province in Iran. Partial sequences of COI mtDNA gene of 31 specimens of Ph. mystaceus from 17 localities from all major parts of species range were analyzed. Genetic distances show a deep divergence between Ph. mystaceus khorasanus ssp. n. from Khorasan Razavi Province and all other populations of Ph. mystaceus. The new subspecies can be distinguished from other populations of Ph. mystaceus by a combination of several morphological features. Molecular and morphological analyses do not support the validity of other Ph. mystaceus subspecies described from Middle Asia and Caspian basin. Geographic variations in the Ph. mystaceus species complex and the status of previously described subspecies were discussed.
["Khorasan"]

Cladolasma ailaoshan, a new species of the genus Cladolasma Suzuki, 1963 from China (Opiliones, Nemastomatidae, Ortholasmatinae)
The fourth species of the Asian genus Cladolasma, C. ailaoshan sp. n. is described from specimens collected in Yunnan Province, China. The new species is distinct from C. parvulum Suzuki, 1963 and C. angka (Schwendinger & Gruber, 1992) in lacking enlarged, dorsally-directed tubercles on the abdominal scutum; and from C. damingshan Zhang & Zhang, 2013 in having keels around the eyes and in the position of the eyes. Differences in male genital structures between the Chinese species are small, while there are more differences with the Japanese species.
["Ailao Mountain"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Echinotermes biriba, a new genus and species of soldierless termite from the Colombian and Peruvian Amazon (Termitidae, Apicotermitinae)
A new Apicotermitinae genus and species Echinotermes biriba is described from workers collected on the Andean-Amazon Piedmont in Colombia and Peru. The enteric valve armature of Echinotermes biriba Castro & Scheffrahn, gen. et sp. n. is a remarkably diagnostic character. A Bayesian phylogenetic analysis using the COI gene and including all other Neotropical Apicotermitinae genera, supports the new genus as a distinct terminal.
["Anoplotermes-group"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Arachnanthus from the Red Sea (Cnidaria, Ceriantharia)
A new species of the genus Arachnanthus (Cnidaria: Ceriantharia), Arachnanthus lilith Stampar & El Didi, sp. n., is described. This species is widely distributed in the Red Sea, and recorded from 2–30 m depths. Arachnanthus lilith Stampar & El Didi, sp. n. is the fifth species of the genus and the first recorded from the Red Sea. The number of labial tentacle pseudocycles, arrangement of mesenteries, and distribution of acontioids allow the differentiation of the new species from other species of the genus.
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new species of Diaphorocera from Morocco with unclear relationships and a key to the species (Coleoptera, Meloidae, Cerocomini)
Diaphorocera neglecta sp. n. from Morocco is described. Photos of the new species are provided and male features are figured. The new species has intermediate characters between the groups of D. hemprichi and D. promelaena as defined in the literature. These groups are discussed and a new key to the species is presented.
["Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Occurrence of the large ostracod, Chlamydotheca unispinosa (Baird, 1862), in temporary waters of Montserrat, Lesser Antilles
Four populations of the large freshwater ostracod, Chlamydotheca unispinosa (Baird, 1862), were discovered on the Caribbean island of Montserrat. These are the first records of the species on Montserrat and extend its known distribution approximately 113 km northwest and 63 km southeast of the closest known populations on Îles des Saintes (Guadeloupe) and Nevis, respectively. We provide the first DNA barcode for C. unispinosa, a 686 bp fragment of the COI gene which may be used for future comparative studies of this widely distributed species.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

First record of Ianiropsis cf. serricaudis in Maryland Coastal Bays, USA (Crustacea, Peracarida, Janiridae)
During monthly sampling of benthic invertebrates at 13 stations in the Maryland Coastal Bays (MCBs) from March to December 2012, a total of 29 individuals of Ianiropsis cf. serricaudis were collected. This species is being reported for the first time in MCBs. A detailed illustration and description of an adult male of I. cf. serricaudis from MCBs is presented. An illustrated key of males of Ianiropsis species belonging to the palpalis-group is also presented. The size of the largest male was 3.0 mm and that of the largest female was 2.5 mm. It is possible that I. cf. serricaudis was present in the MCBs, but overlooked during previous surveys of marine benthic invertebrates in the area because of its small body size and lack of taxonomic expertise.
["Ianiropsis cf. serricaudis"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Revision of the Afrotropical genus Ivondrovia Shenefelt & Marsh, 1976 with description of a new species (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Doryctinae)
A revision of the small Afrotropical holcobraconine genus Ivondrovia Shenefelt & Marsh, 1976 (Doryctinae) is provided. A new species from Kenya, Ivondrovia grangeri sp. n., is described and illustrated. The illustrated redescriptions of the genus Ivondrovia and its type species Lophogaster seyrigi Granger, 1949 are given. The two known species of this genus are keyed.
["Descriptions"]

Two new species of Ateuchus with remarks on ecology, distributions, and evolutionary relationships (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae)
Two new species of the genus Ateuchus Weber are described from the region of Los Chimalapas, Oaxaca, Mexico: A. benitojuarezi sp. n. and A. colossus sp. n. A diagnosis for distinguishing these new species from the other species of this genus in North America is included. This paper is illustrated with pictures of the dorsal habitus and the male genitalia of the new species. The evolutionary relationships of the species are discussed, as well as their distribution and ecology. It is considered that the species of the genus Ateuchus present in North and Central America correspond to the Typical Neotropical and Mountain Mesoamerican distribution patterns.
["Ateuchini"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

A new species of the genus Gonatopus Ljungh from the USA (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae)
A new species of Gonatopus Ljungh, 1810 is described from the USA, Florida: G. jacki sp. n. Morphologically, the new species is similar to G. ashmeadi Kieffer, 1905 and G. agropyrus Fenton, 1921, but it is distinguished by the different shape of the mesoscutum (very slender in G. jacki; broader in G. ashmeadi and G. agropyrus). Published identification keys to the Nearctic species of Gonatopus are modified to include the new species.
["Chrysidoidea"]

Four new Gammarus species from Tibetan Plateau with a key to Tibetan freshwater gammarids (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridae)
Four new species of the genus Gammarus are described and illustrated from Tibetan Plateau. Gammarus altus sp. n. and G. limosus sp. n. are characterized by pereopods III–IV with a few short setae and uropod III with marginal spines accompanied by short setae. Gammarus kangdingensis sp. n. and G. gonggaensis sp. n. are characterized by pereopods III–IV with long straight setae on posterior margins and inner ramus of uropod III 0.4 times as long as outer ramus. Detailed morphological comparisons with related species are discussed. A key to 15 Gammarus species from the Tibetan Plateau and a map of their distributions are provided.
["Amphipoda"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Mantophasmatodea from the Richtersveld in South Africa with description of two new genera and species
Two new species and two new genera (Kuboesphasma, Minutophasma) of Mantophasmatodea that occur in the Richtersveld region of South Africa are described. Kuboesphasma compactum gen. n., sp. n. was found only in a small area near the village of Kuboes, while Minutophasma richtersveldense gen. n., sp. n. apparently inhabits a larger area in the Richtersveld. With these two new species, a total of four different mantophasmatodeans are known to live in this area. This is a remarkable exception to the remaining representatives of this order, where even a common occurrence of only two species is rare. We discuss this sympatry in the context of the phylogeny of the group. Additionally, we provide a map of the known distributions and a table with the most important taxonomic features of the mantophasmatodeans in the Richtersveld.
["heelwalkers"]

Ugandaltica gen. n., a tiny flea beetle from the forest canopy in Central Africa (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
In this contribution, Ugandaltica wagneri gen. n. and sp. n., collected from the canopies in the Budongo Forest, Uganda, is described. Similarities and affinities with other small-sized and convex-shaped flea beetle genera, occurring in the Afrotropical region, are discussed. Micrographs of diagnostic characters, including male and female genitalia, are supplied. Finally, some considerations on the ecology of canopy flea beetles are also reported.

Poecilia vivipara Bloch & Schneider, 1801 (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae), a guppy in an oceanic archipelago: from where did it come?
Poecilia vivipara, a small euryhaline guppy is reported at the Maceió River micro-basin in the Fernando de Noronha oceanic archipelago, northeast Brazil. However, the origin (human-mediated or natural dispersal) of this insular population is still controversial. The present study investigates how this population is phylogenetically related to the surrounding continental populations using the cytochrome oxidase I mitochondrial gene from eleven river basins in South America. Our phylogenetic reconstruction showed a clear geographical distribution arrangement of P. vivipara lineages. The Fernando de Noronha haplotype fell within the 'north' clade, closely related to a shared haplotype between the Paraíba do Norte and Potengi basins; the geographically closest continental drainages. Our phylogenetic reconstruction also showed highly divergent lineages, suggesting that P. vivipara may represent a species complex along its wide distribution. Regarding to the insular population, P. vivipara may have been intentionally introduced to the archipelago for the purpose of mosquito larvae control during the occupation of a U.S. military base following World War II. However, given the euryhaline capacity of P. vivipara, a potential scenario of natural (passive or active) dispersal cannot be ruled out.
["Fernando de Noronha arquipelago"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Deep intraspecific DNA barcode splits and hybridisation in the Udea alpinalis group (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Crambidae) – an integrative revision
The analysis of mitochondrial COI data for the European-Centroasian montane Udea alpinalis species group finds deep intraspecific splits. Specimens of U. austriacalis and U. rhododendronalis separate into several biogeographical groups. These allopatric groups are not recovered in the analyses of the two nuclear markers wingless and Elongation factor 1-alpha, except for U. austriacalis from the Pyrenees and the French Massif Central. The latter populations are also morphologically distinct and conspecific with Scopula donzelalis Guenée, 1854, which is removed from synonymy and reinstated as Udea donzelalis (Guenée, 1854) stat. rev. Furthermore, Udea altaica (Zerny, 1914), stat. n. from the Mongolian central Altai mountains, U. juldusalis (Zerny, 1914), stat. n. from the Tian Shan mountains of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and NW China, and U. plumbalis (Zerny, 1914), stat. n. from the Sayan Mountains of Northern Mongolia are raised to species level, and lectotypes are designated. Evidence of introgression of U. alpinalis into U. uliginosalis at three localities in the Central Alps is presented. A screening for Wolbachia using the markers wsp, gatB and ftsZ was negative for the U. alpinalis species group, but Wolbachia was found in single specimens of U. fulvalis and U. olivalis (both in the U. numeralis species group). We do not find evidence for the conjecture of several authors of additional subspecies in U. rhododendronalis, and synonymise U. rhododendronalis luquetalis Leraut, 1996, syn. n. and U. r. ventosalis Leraut, 1996, syn. n. with the nominal U. rhododendronalis (Duponchel, 1834).
["Alps"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Species of the fungivorous genus Psalidothrips Priesner from China, with five new species (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae)
An identification key and review is provided of fifteen species of the fungivorous genus Psalidothrips Priesner from China, with five new species, P. angustus sp. n., P. comosus sp. n., P. fabarius sp. n., and P. latizonus sp. n., and P. nigroterminatus sp. n. In addition, Psalidothrips consimilis Okajima, previously known only from Ryukyu Islands, Japan, is newly recorded in China.
["fungus-feeding"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

X-ray microtomography (microCT) of male genitalia of Nothybus kuznetsovorum (Nothybidae) and Cothornobata sp. (Micropezidae)
The results of manual dissection of the musculature of the male genitalia in Nothybus kuznetsovorum are fully confirmed by the modern methods of Micro-CT. A comparative analysis of Neria commutata and Cothornobata sp. shows that an increase in the flexion in the genitalia of males and the displacement of syntergosternite VII to the ventral side in Cothornobata sp. caused the disappearance of the muscles ITM6–7r and ITM7–8r. In addition, this increase in flexion apparently caused the fusion of the M18 muscles into one bundle. The muscle ISM5-6c goes on to moving the second segment of the forcipate appendages of sternite V.
["Cothornobata"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Andersonoplatus, a new, remarkable leaf litter inhabiting genus of Monoplatina (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
Andersonoplatus, a new genus with 16 new species from Venezuela (A. andersoni, A. bechyneorum, A. castaneus, A. flavus, A. jolyi, A. laculata, A. lagunanegra, A. macubaji, A. merga, A. merida, A. microoculus, A. peck, A. rosalesi, A. sanare, A. saviniae) and Panama (A. baru), is described and illustrated. All the specimens were collected in leaf litter by R. Anderson and S. and J. Peck. Andersonoplatus is compared to Andersonaltica Linzmeier & Konstantinov, Apleuraltica Bechyne, Distigmoptera Blake and Ulrica Scherer.
["Alticini"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Triplophysa anshuiensis, a new species of blind loach from the Xijiang River, China (Teleostei, Nemacheilidae)
A new cave-dwelling fish, Triplophysa anshuiensis, is described here based on specimens collected from a karst cave in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, interconnected with the Hongshui River system, a tributary of the Xijiang River in the Pearl River (Zhu Jiang) Drainage. The species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of morphological characters. A key to the cave-dwelling species of Triplophysa in the Xijiang River is provided.
["cave fish"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

First record of Arthromelodes Jeannel in China, with description of a new species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
A new species of Arthromelodes Jeannel, A. choui sp. n., is described from northern Taitung, Taiwan, representing the first record of the genus in China. The species is distinctive, and may be readily separated from its congeners by the unique structures of male tergite 1(IV), and the aedeagus.
["Arthromelodes"]

Description of Longidorus cheni sp. n. (Nematoda, Longidoridae) from China
Longidorus cheni sp. n., an amphimictic species recovered from the rhizosphere of Larix principis-rupprechtii and Pyracantha fortuneana in Shanxi and Beijing, China, is described and illustrated. The taxonomic position of L. cheni sp. n. among other species within the genus was elucidated using morphometric and molecular data, and phylogenetic relationships were inferred using D2–D3 expansion domains of 28S and 18S rRNA genes by Bayesian Inference (BI) method. The new species is characterised by females with a medium body size (L = 4.9–6.6 mm), a lip region slightly expanded, broadly rounded frontally and laterally, the amphidial fovea broad and symmetrically bilobed at base, odontostyle long and slender (143–168 μm), odonthophore slightly swollen at the base, tail short bluntly conoid to rounded. Guide ring located far posterior from the oral aperture (70–93 μm). Males with two ad-cloacal pairs of supplements preceded by a row of 10–14 ventromedian supplements, with robust spicules measuring 111–126 μm along the median line. Three juvenile stages were present, tail shape of J1 elongate conoid while in J2 and J3 the tail gradually becomes bluntly rounded. Codes for identifying the new species are: A6-B3-C5-D2-E2-F3-G1-H1-I2-J2-K2. Longidorus cheni sp. n. belongs to a group of species with a guide ring at the mid-odontostyle position that have a predominantly Asiatic origin. It differs from all of them by a combination of morphological characters and unique sequences of partial 18S and D2–D3 region of 28S rRNA genes. The percentage dissimilarities in partial 18S and D2–D3 28S rRNA genes of L. cheni to the closest species (L. litchii, L. fangi, L. jonesi and L. juglans) were 1.5 %–1.8 % and 16.8–18.3 %, respectively.
["D2\u2013D3 region of large subunit (LSU) 28S rDNA"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

The leaf-mining genus Antispila Hübner, 1825 feeding on Vitaceae in Shandong Peninsula, China with one new species (Lepidoptera, Heliozelidae)
The Antispila species feeding on Vitaceae from Shandong Peninsula, China are treated. Antispila kunyuensis Liu, sp. n., feeding on Ampelopsis humulifolia, is described as new to science, and A. uenoi Kuroko, 1987, feeding on Vitis amurensis, is recorded as new for China. Vitis amurensis is documented as a new host plant for A. uenoi. The adult male and female, host plant and typical patterns of leaf-mines of both species are illustrated, as are male and female genitalia and venation. The venation and the paired tufts of scales on the 7th abdominal segment in male are illustrated for A. uenoi for the first time. DNA barcodes of both species are also provided, together with a neighbor-joining tree for facilitating species delimitation.
["Ampelopsis"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Trematocranus pachychilus, a new endemic cichlid from Lake Malawi (Teleostei, Cichlidae)
A new species of Trematocranus, T. pachychilus sp. n., is described from Lake Malawi. So far, it has only been found at Jafua Bay, Mozambique. It can easily be distinguished from T. labifer by its molariform pharyngeal dentition. A morphometric study, including 24 measurements and 15 counts, was done to compare the new species with T. microstoma and T. placodon. Trematocranus pachychilus is characterised by its thick lips. This species further differs from T. microstoma by its bicuspid (vs. unicuspid) outer oral teeth, wide (vs. small) pharyngeal bone, and its head shape. It resembles T. placodon, from which it can be distinguished by its straight to concave head profile (vs. rounded), less-developed pharyngeal bones (vs. hypertrophied), and the presence of small to minute teeth on the lateral parts of the dentigerous area on the lower pharyngeal bone. A key to the species of Trematocranus is provided.
["Cichlid"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Protomedetera, a new genus from the Oriental and Australasian realms (Diptera, Dolichopodidae, Medeterinae)
Protomedetera gen. n. (Diptera: Dolichopodidae), a new genus of the subfamily Medeterinae, is described from the Oriental and Australasian realms based on four new species. Protomedetera singaporensis Grootaert & Tang, sp. n. is designated as type of the new genus. The genus is peculiar because of the small body size, the small globular first flagellomere (postpedicel), the simple male genitalia with indistinct or small epandrial lobe and half-hidden cercus. The following four new species are described and illustrated: P. biconvexa sp. n., P. biseta sp. n., P. glabra sp. n., and P. singaporensis sp. n. A key to the species of the new genus is provided.

Dung beetle vicariant speciation in the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico, with a description of a new species of Phanaeus (Coleoptera, Geotrupidae, Scarabaeidae)
An analysis of vicariant speciation of Geotrupes and Phanaeus (Coleoptera, Geotrupidae, Scarabaeidae) from the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico is undertaken. The new species of dung beetle (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) from Oaxaca, Mexico, Phanaeus dionysius sp. n. is described. Photos of the habitus and a distribution map are provided. Phanaeus malyi Arnaud is revalidated. An updated key for the Phanaeus endymion species group and new localities are also presented. An updated key for the Geotrupes of Oaxaca and new locality records are also submitted.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Occurrence of the millipede genus Tonkinosoma Jeekel, 1953 in China, with the description of the first presumed troglobitic species of this genus (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The genus Tonkinosoma Jeekel, 1953 has hitherto been known to contain only two species, both from northern Vietnam. T. flexipes Jeekel, 1953, the type species of the genus, is recorded from Guangxi, southern China, for the first time. T. tiani sp. n., a presumed troglobite, is described from caves in Guizhou, southwestern China. A key is presented to all three species of the genus.
["Guangxi"]

Small terrestrial mammals of Albania: distribution and diversity (Mammalia, Eulipotyphla, Rodentia)
In this paper new records are reported for 23 species of small terrestrial mammals (STM) of Albania collected during the field work campaigns organised in the framework of the project “Strengthening capacity in National Nature Protection – preparation for Natura 2000 network” (NaturAL) in Albania during the summer and autumn of 2016 and 2017 Data on small mammals were primarily collected through Sherman live-trapping campaigns in six high priority protected areas of Albania: Korab-Koritnik, Bredhi i Hotovës, Tomorri, Llogara-Karaburun, Divjakë-Karavasta, Liqeni i Shkodrës (Skadar lake), Lëpushë-Vermosh. Other data were obtained by analysis of owl pellets or by direct observation of individuals (dead or alive) in the field. For 21 species Erinaceus roumanicus, Neomys anomalus, Crocidura suaveolens, Crocidura leucodon, Suncus etruscus, Talpa stankovici/caeca, Myocastor coypus, Sciurus vulgaris, Glis glis, Dryomys nitedula, Muscardinus avellanarius, Microtus levis/arvalis, Microtus subterraneus, Microtus thomasi, Microtus felteni, Myodes glareolus, Apodemus sylvaticus, Apodemus flavicollis, Apodemus epimelas, Mus musculus, and Mus macedonicus additional records are provide and their distributions reviewed, while the presence of two new species of shrews (Sorex araneus and Sorex minutus) for Albania is reported for the first time. A comprehensive review of the published and unpublished distribution records of STM species of the country is made, together with an updated checklist and distribution maps of the species.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

An illustrated key to the Saudi Arabian species of the genus Macroocula Panfilov, 1954, with the description of a new species and the previously unknown female of M. andreai Pagliano (Hymenoptera, Bradynobaenidae, Apterogyninae)
The Saudi Arabian species of the genus Macroocula Panfilov (Bradynobaenidae, Apterogyninae) are keyed and illustrated. Eleven species were previously recorded from Arabian fauna: M. andreai Pagliano (♂), M. atuberculata Soliman & Gadallah (♂), M. khorimensis Soliman & Gadallah (♂), M. magna (Invrea) (♀), M. mahunkai (Argaman) (♂), M. nitida (Bischoff) (♂, ♀), M. ohli Pagliano (♂), M. riyadha Gadallah & Pagliano (♂), M. savignyi (Klug) (♂, ♀), M. sinaica (Invrea) (♂) and M. zulfiensis Soliman & Gadallah (♂). A new species, Macroocula asirensis Gadallah & Soliman, sp. n. (♂) from Saloos Al-Manzar, Wadi Yebah and Wadi Targ (Asir region) and the previously unknown female of M. andreai from Wadi Reem (Jazan region) are described and illustrated.
["Asir"]

Neotropical Thoasia Liebke, 1939 and Straneotia Mateu, 1961 of the Cryptobatida group, subtribe Agrina: Taxonomic revisions with notes on their ways of life (Insecta, Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini)
Thoasia Liebke, 1939 and Straneotia Mateu, 1961 of the Cryptobatida group, subtribe Agrina, Lebiini, living in the Neotropics are diagnosed, described, and illustrated. Occurrences of known species ranges are limited to the northern and western Amazon Basin and Guyana Shield. The following species are described as new: Thoasia surinamensis Erwin & Aldebron, sp. n., Suriname, Thoasia pterosmaragdos Aldebron & Erwin, sp. n., French Guiana, Thoasia manu Erwin & Aldebron, sp. n., Ecuador, Perú; Straneotia cylindroceps Erwin & Aldebron, sp. n., French Guiana, Straneotia confundis Aldebron & Erwin, sp. n., Ecuador, and Straneotia moi Aldebron & Erwin, sp. n., French Guiana. Two of these species, Thoasia manu and Straneotia moi are known from adults collected by insecticidal fogging of lowland rainforest trees, and these trees are listed in their respective descriptions. The following species are redescribed: Thoasia rugifrons Liebke, 1939, French Guiana, Venezuela; Straneotia freyi Mateu, 1961, Brazil; Straneotia amazonica Mateu, 1961, Brazil.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Laubuka tenella, a new species of cyprinid fish from southeastern Bangladesh and southwestern Myanmar (Teleostei, Cyprinidae, Danioninae)
Laubuka tenella is a new species characterized by the colour pattern, consisting of short dark vertical bars anteriorly on the side, and a dark lateral band posteriorly on the side, combined with a relatively short pelvic fin and 29–30 lateral-line scales. It is separated from other Laubuka analysed by minimum 9 % uncorrected p-distance in the mitochondrial COI gene. The type series is composed of specimens from small streams in the Cox’s Bazar District in Bangladesh (the type locality), and the Thandwe River drainage in western Myanmar. Laubuka brahmaputraensis is strongly indicated to be a junior synonym of L. laubuca, the second known species of Laubuka in Bangladesh. Eustira ceylonensis, currently in the synonymy of Devario malabaricus, is a valid species of Laubuka.

Taxonomic notes on the ground beetles in the genus Trephionus Bates, 1883 from central Honshu, Japan (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Sphodrini, Synuchina)
Trephionus Bates, 1883, a Japanese endemic genus in the subtribe Synuchina (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Sphodrini), is revised taxonomically based mainly on the shape of the endophallus, a membranous inner sac everted from the aedeagus of the male genitalia. Three known species from central Honshu, T. kinoshitai Habu, 1954; T. shibataianus Habu, 1978; and T. babai Habu, 1978, are re-defined based on this genital character, and five new species are described from the region: T. cylindriphallus Sasakawa, sp. n., T. niumontanus Sasakawa, sp. n., T. inexpectatus Sasakawa & Itô, sp. n., T. abiba Sasakawa & Itô, sp. n., and T. bifidilobatus Sasakawa & Itô, sp. n. The observed interspecies differences in endophallus morphology are discussed in terms of the species-level phylogeny and genus-level taxonomy of Trephionus.

Millipede and centipede assemblages on the northern and southern slopes of the lowland Altais, southwestern Siberia, Russia (Diplopoda, Chilopoda)
The total species richness in the myriapod assemblages of the lowland Altais near Charyshskoe Village, Altai Province, southwestern Siberia, Russia is estimated to be at least 19 species from ten genera, eight families, five orders, and two classes. The following species are new to SW Siberia: Lithobius (Ezembius) ostiacorum Stuxberg, 1876, L. vagabundus Stuxberg, 1876, and L. (Monotarsobius) nordenskioeldii Stuxberg, 1876, while L. (E.) proximus Sseliwanoff, 1880 and L. (M.) insolens Dányi & Tuf, 2012 are recorded for the first time from the Altai Province of Russia. A species of Strigamia which is morphologically similar to Strigamia cf. transsilvanica (Verhoeff, 1928) has been found in the study area but its true specific identity is yet to be determined. The seasonal dynamics of myriapod assemblages in terms of the species diversity, density, sex-age structure, and vertical distribution along the soil profile have been studied with regard to the different slope exposures.
["Altai"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Four new species of the Glyphiulus javanicus group from southern China (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Cambalopsidae)
Hitherto, 24 species of the Glyphiulus javanicus group have been recorded, all endemic to Southeast Asia, including 14 in China. Nevertheless, this species group needs further exploration. In this context, four new species of this group are described, all collected from limestone caves in Southern China: G. calceus sp. n., G. foetidus sp. n., G. guangnanensis sp. n., and G. impletus sp. n. They can be separated easily from each other and other congeners by their carinotaxic formulae, the structures of male legs I, and the gonopods. Due to the absence of any troglomorphic traits in our specimens, they may be troglophilic only.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Intraspecific variation and phylogeography of the millipede model organism, the Black Pill Millipede Glomeris marginata (Villers, 1789) (Diplopoda, Glomerida, Glomeridae)
The Black Pill Millipede, Glomeris marginata, is the best studied millipede species and a model organism for Diplopoda. Glomeris marginata is widespread, with numerous colour morphs occurring across its range, especially in the south. This study investigates whether colour morphs might represent cryptic species as well as the haplotype diversity and biogeography of G. marginata. The results of the COI barcoding fragment analysis include 97 G. marginata, as well as 21 specimens from seven potentially related species: G. intermedia Latzel, 1884, G. klugii Brandt, 1833 (G. undulata C.L. Koch, 1844), G. connexa Koch, 1847, G. hexasticha Brandt, 1833, G. maerens Attems, 1927, G. annulata Brandt, 1833 and G. apuana Verhoeff, 1911. The majority of the barcoding data was obtained through the German Barcode of Life project (GBOL). Interspecifically, G. marginata is separated from its congeners by a minimum uncorrected genetic distance of 12.9 %, confirming its monophyly. Uncorrected intraspecific distances of G. marginata are comparable to those of other widespread Glomeris species, varying between 0–4.7%, with the largest genetic distances (>2.5 %) found at the Mediterranean coast. 97 sampled specimens of G. marginata yielded 47 different haplotypes, with identical haplotypes occurring at large distances from one another, and different haplotypes being present in populations occurring in close proximity. The highest number of haplotypes was found in the best-sampled area, western Germany. The English haplotype is identical to northern Spain; specimens from southern Spain are closer to French Mediterranean specimens. Analyses (CHAO1) show that approximately 400 different haplotypes can be expected in G. marginata. To cover all haplotypes, it is projected that up to 6,000 specimens would need to be sequenced, highlighting the impossibility of covering the whole genetic diversity in barcoding attempts of immobile soil arthropod species.
["biogeographic regions"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

The peristomatic structures as a source of systematic characters in the genus Lithobius Leach, 1814 (Myriapoda, Chilopoda)
Morphological characters have been widely used in centipede systematics. Here, we aim to obtain morphological information from the preoral chamber and peristomatic structures of lithobiomorph centipedes, with taxonomic sampling focused on the species-rich genus Lithobius Leach, 1814. Towards this goal, we (i) examined the epipharynx and hypopharynx of 32 species belonging to four subgenera of the genus Lithobius, viz. Lithobius Leach, 1814, Monotarsobius Verhoeff, 1905, Sigibius Chamberlin, 1913 and Ezembius Chamberlin, 1919 using light and scanning electron microscopy, (ii) searched for phylogenetically informative characters and (iii) described interspecific variation. Three species of the lithobiid genera Eupolybothrus Verhoeff, 1907, Disphaerobius Attems, 1926 and Neolithobius Stuxberg, 1875 were additionally examined and considered as likely outgroups. New characters and character states are proposed as additions to current phylogenetic datasets. Similarities in the peristomatic structures ally Disphaerobius with Lithobius (Ezembius), suggesting that the subfamily Pterygoterginae is nested within Lithobiinae and Lithobius.
["Lithobiomorpha"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Hessebius luculentus, a new species of the genus Hessebius Verhoeff, 1941 from China (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
Hessebius luculentus sp. n. (Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae), recently discovered from Shandan County, Zhangye City, Province Gansu, Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China, is described. Morphologically it resembles H. jangtseanus (Verhoeff, 1942), but can be easily distinguished from the latter by size of Tömösváry’s organ’s, the morphological characters of a protuberance on the dorsal end of the second article of the female gonopods; and obvious differences in the dorsal plectrotaxy of both the 14th and 15th legs. The main morphological characters and a key to the known Chinese species of genus Hessebius based on adult specimens are presented.

Lithobius (Ezembius) tetraspinus, a new species of centipede from northwest China (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
Lithobius (Ezembius) tetraspinussp. n. (Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae), recently discovered from Hami City, Xinjiang Autonomous Region, NW China, is described. Morphologically this species resembles L. (E.) sibiricus, Gersfeldt, 1858, but is distinguishable by a different coxal pore formula, absence of accessory spurs on leg 15, morphology of the second article of the female gonopod, and legs 14 plectrotaxy. A table of the main morphological characters of Chinese Lithobius (Ezembius) species is presented.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Two new Lophoturus species (Diplopoda, Polyxenida, Lophoproctidae) from Queensland, Australia
Lophoturus queenslandicus Verhoeff, 1924 was the first penicillate millipede in the family Lophoproctidae collected from Cairns, a tropical region in Queensland, Australia, to be formally described. Specimens collected from this region in a recent study had the morphological characters known to define this genus. However, their body form and length, as well as dorsal colouration proved to be different, suggesting the possibility of more than one Lophoturus species. This assertion was supported by the results of a phylogenetic analysis of DNA extracted and sequenced using 18S and COI regions from L. queenslandicus and two undescribed species from this genus. Specimens preserved in ethanol can prove difficult to confidently identify to species level because their colour gradually fades. Examination of live specimens with their body colour visible, together with morphological characters and DNA analysis is the most reliable way of correctly distinguishing between these three species. Two new species, L. boondallus sp. n. and L. molloyensis sp. n. collected in Queensland, Australia are described.
["Millipedes"]

Lithobius (Monotarsobius) meifengensis, a new species of centipede from high altitude forest in central Taiwan (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
Lithobius (Monotarsobius) meifengensissp. n. occurring at Mei-Feng Farm, Highland Experimental Farm of National Taiwan University, Nantou, Taiwan, is characterised by a male secondary sexual character on leg 15, a very large ventral swelling occupying almost 50% of the ventral surface of the femur; the gently curved apical region bearing approximately 20 short setae and numerous very small pores of flexo-canal epidermal glands. This male secondary sexual character is described for the first time in the genus Lithobius.
["Lithobius"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

A new species of Paraonis and an annotated checklist of polychaetes from mangroves of the Brazilian Amazon Coast (Annelida, Paraonidae)
The polychaete fauna from the mangroves of the Amazon Coast in Maranhão state, Brazil, is reported in this study. Fourteen species are listed, namely Alitta succinea (Leuckart, 1847); Arabella (Arabella) iricolor Montagu, 1804; Capitella capitata (Fabricius, 1780) complex; Exogone (Exogone) breviantennata Hartmann-Schröder, 1959; Heteromastus filiformis (Claparède, 1864); Isolda pulchella Müller, 1858; Mediomastus californiensis Hartman, 1944; Namalycastis fauveli Nageswara Rao, 1981; Namalycastis geayi (Gravier, 1901); Namalycastis senegalensis (Saint-Joseph, 1901); Nephtys simoni Perkins, 1980; Paraonis amazonica sp. n.; Sigambra bassi (Hartman, 1945); and Sigambra grubii Müller, 1858. Among them, Namalycastis fauveli and Namalycastis geayi are recorded for the first time in Brazil. Paraonis amazonica sp. n. is a new species for science, characterized by a rounded prostomium, 4–8 pairs of foliaceous branchiae, absent eyes, and two types of modified neurochaetae, acicular and hook-shaped.
["annelid"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Taxonomic review of the deep water flathead genus Parabembras with description of the new species Parabembras multisquamata from the western Pacific Ocean (Teleostei, Parabembridae)
Three valid species of Parabembras are recognized: P. curta, P. robinsoni, and the new species P. multisquamata. Parabembras robinsoni from the southwestern Indian Ocean (South Africa to Mozambique) is easily distinguishable from the other species in having eleven spines in the first dorsal fin, a distinct symphyseal knob on the lower jaw, two preocular spines, and a single lachrymal spine. Parabembras multisquamata from the southwestern Pacific (Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea) and the Philippines, and P. curta, known from the northwestern Pacific (southern Japan to South China Sea), are similar in sharing the absence of a symphyseal knob on the lower jaw, the presence of two lachrymal spines, and a single preocular spine, but the former is clearly distinguished from the latter in usually having 10 spines in the first dorsal fin (vs. eight or nine spines in P. curta), 9–11 supraocular spines (vs. 6–8 in P. curta), 40–44 pored lateral line scales (vs. 34–39 in P. curta), and the pectoral fin extending beyond the level of the anus (vs. not reaching to the level of the anus in P. curta).

A new species of Cotesia Cameron (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) reared from the hickory horned devil, Citheronia regalis, and luna moth, Actias luna, in east Texas
The braconid wasp parasitoid Cotesia nuellorum Whitfield, new species, is described from specimens reared from a caterpillar of the hickory horned devil, Citheronia regalis (F.), and from a caterpillar of the luna moth, Actias luna (L.), in eastern Texas. The species is diagnosed with respect to other species of Cotesia recorded from North American Saturniidae, and details of its biology are provided.
["Lepidoptera"]

A new species of sea urchin associating clingfish of the genus Dellichthys from New Zealand (Teleostei, Gobiesocidae)
A new species of clingfish, Dellichthys trnskii sp. n. is described on the basis of 27 specimens, 11.9–46.0 mm SL, collected from intertidal and shallow coastal waters of New Zealand. It is distinguished from its only congener, D. morelandi Briggs, 1955 by characters of the cephalic sensory system and oral jaws, snout shape, and colouration in life. A rediagnosis is provided for D. morelandi, which is shown to exhibit sexual dimorphism in snout shape.
["Marine animal studies overview", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Flanged Bombardier beetles from Shanghai, China, with description of a new species in the genus Eustra Schmidt-Goebel (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Paussinae)
Four paussine species belonging to three different genera are discovered in Shanghai. A new species, Eustra shanghaiensis Song, sp. n., is described, illustrated, and distinguished from the treated congeners. New distributional data or biological notes on Eustra chinensis Bänninger, 1949, Itamus castaneus Schmidt-Goebel, 1846, and Platyrhopalus davidis Fairmaire, 1886 are provided.

Two new species of the genus Andixius Emeljanov & Hayashi from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae)
Two new cixiid planthopper species: Andixius longispinus Zhi & Chen, sp. n. and A. trifurcus Zhi & Chen, sp. n. are described and illustrated from China (Yunnan Province) to provide the genus with four species in total. The generic characteristics are redefined. A key based on male genitalia to the four known species of this genus and a map of their geographic distributions are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Virus Research Studies"]

New data on the longhorn beetles of Mongolia with particular emphasis on the genus Eodorcadion Breuning, 1947 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
New data on the distribution, biology, and ecology of the longhorn beetles occurring in Mongolia are presented together with a list of 35 species that were collected during a one-month entomological expedition in August 2015. New localities of some rare taxa endemic to Mongolia, such as Eodorcadion dorcas dorcas (Jakovlev, 1901), E. humerale impluviatum (Faldermann, 1833), and E. intermedium intermedium (Jakovlev, 1889) are given. High-quality photographs of several rather unique species, i.e., Pachytodes longipes (Gebler, 1832), Eodorcadion maurum australe Danilevsky, 2014, E. oryx (Jakovlev, 1895), Monochamus impluviatus impluviatus (Motschulsky, 1859), and M. sutor longulus (Pic, 1898) along with images of their habitats or feeding grounds are also presented. Furthermore, the ecological role of the fireweed Chamaenerion angustifolium (L.) Scop. in the case of boreal anthophilous cerambycid species is highlighted for the first time.
["Chamaenerion"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

A new cave-dwelling species of Deuteraphorura from northern Italy (Collembola, Onychiuridae)
A new cave-dwelling species, Deuteraphorura pieroluccii sp. n., is described from northern Italy. The size of adult specimens, number, and distribution of dorsal and ventral pseudocelli, and number of compound vesicles of the post antennal organ were used to distinguish it among other congeneric species.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Paravietnura gen. n., a new intriguing genus of Neanurini from the Caucasus (Collembola, Neanuridae, Neanurinae)
Paravietnura gen. n. is described and established for two new species of Neanurini from the Caucasus. The new genus is characterized by an unusual combination of features: the fusion of all lateral tubercles on the head into a single mass, the strong reduction of chaetae on the head, the fusion of cephalic tubercles Af and Oc into a transverse band, the absence of labial chaetae f, the presence of microchaetae on furca rudimentary, and the penultimate abdominal tergum with two tubercles separated along the midline. Paravietnura gen. n. strongly resembles Vietnura Deharveng & Bedos, 2000, a monotypic genus up to date known only from Vietnam. The main characteristics of Paravietnura notabilis sp. n. include an ogival labrum, the absence of chaetae A on the head, relatively thick and widely sheathed long macrochaetae, and minute microchaetae without chaetopores on furca rudimentary. Paravietnura insolita sp. n. differs from the previous species in chaetotaxic details, the size of furcal microchaetae, and the shape of the labrum. Short comments on the generic diversity of the tribe in the Western Palaearctic are also provided.
["Paravietnura notabilis sp. n."]

A new species of the genus Hexapleomera Dudich, 1931 from the South Korea, with molecular evidence (Crustacea, Tanaidacea, Tanaididae)
Two populations of new species are described for Hexapleomera Dudich, 1931 from the southeastern coast and Jeju island of South Korea (north west Pacific). The specimens were collected using a light trap set overnight at the entrance near a pier or harbour. Hexapleomera ulsana sp. n. is clearly differentiated from other species in the genus by the uropod with five articles, a maxillule palp with four distal setae, the maxilliped coxa with three proximal setae, the epignath with short and blunt spiniform seta, the propodus of pereopods 2–3 with three ventral setae, and the maxilla with a rugged shape of the distal margin. Differences of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) gene observed between two populations of H. ulsana from different regions (Ulsan and Jeju Island) and between H. ulsana and H. urashima (Japan) were 1.1 % and 32.4 %, respectively. Two genetically-close populations differed in the setae on pleopod 3, the proximal setae on the maxilliped coxa, and the ventral setae on pereopods 2–3, which showed that geographical distance affected the morphological divergence. In addition, a comprehensive comparison with previous records of Hexapleomera was conducted and close examinations on the appendages, known to have morphological variations between the individuals of one species and/or between different genders, were carried out based on new species and discussed herein.
["genetic analysis"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Genome-wide SNP data and morphology support the distinction of two new species of Kovarikia Soleglad, Fet & Graham, 2014 endemic to California (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae)
Morphologically conserved taxa such as scorpions represent a challenge to delimit. We recently discovered populations of scorpions in the genus Kovarikia Soleglad, Fet & Graham, 2014 on two isolated mountain ranges in southern California. We generated genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism data and used Bayes factors species delimitation to compare alternative species delimitation scenarios which variously placed scorpions from the two localities with geographically adjacent species or into separate lineages. We also estimated a time-calibrated phylogeny of Kovarikia and examined and compared the morphology of preserved specimens from across its distribution. Genetic results strongly support the distinction of two new lineages, which we describe and name here. Morphology among the species of Kovarikia was relatively conserved, despite deep genetic divergences, consistent with recent studies of stenotopic scorpions with limited vagility. Phylogeographic structure discovered in several previously described species also suggests additional cryptic species are probably present in the genus.
["arachnid"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Oculogryphus chenghoiyanae sp. n. (Coleoptera, Lampyridae): a new ototretine firefly from Hong Kong with descriptions of its bioluminescent behavior and ultraviolet-induced fluorescence in females
The first Oculogryphus species with associated males and female was found in Hong Kong and is described as new: O. chenghoiyanae sp. n. Adults of both sexes were collected live in the field and their bioluminescent behavior is reported for the first time in the genus. The captive males emit weak and continuous light from a pair of light spots on abdominal ventrite 6 or do so when disturbed. The larviform (highly paedomorphic) females can glow brightly from a pair of light-emitting organs on the abdomen. The females of Oculogryphus and Stenocladius are to date the only documented representatives of paedomorphism in ototretine fireflies. The finding is consistent with the evidence from male morphology and bioluminescent behavior, supporting the close relationship between the two genera. A key to the Oculogryphus species is provided. The Oculogryphus females can fluoresce with a blue-green light through the whole body under ultraviolet illumination, a phenomenon reported in the Lampyridae for the first time. The co-occurrence of bioluminescence and fluorescence is rare in terrestrial ecosystems, previously known only in some millipedes (Diplopoda). The fluorescence and bioluminescence abilities of Oculogryphus females are functionally independent: abdominal light-emitting organs producing bright yellowish green light while the body wall fluoresces with blue-green light. In contrast, fluorescence and bioluminescence in millipedes are biochemically linked, like in some jellyfish (Cnidaria: Medusozoa).
["Behavior"]
["bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Neurobiology and Insect Physiology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A faunistic study of genus Chasmogenus Sharp, 1882 of China (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae)
Chasmogenus Sharp, 1882 is newly reported from the Chinese Mainland. A new species, C. parorbus sp. n., is described from China (Yunnan). Chasmogenus orbus Watanabe, 1987 is reported from Hong Kong, the first record outside Japan. Chasmogenus abnormalis (Sharp, 1890) is reported from the Chinese mainland for the first time. The male genitalia of each species are illustrated. A key to the Chinese species of the genus is provided.
["Chasmogenus"]

A new species of trogloplacine crab of the genus Australocarcinus Davie, 1988 from a freshwater stream in Mahé, Seychelles (Crustacea, Brachyura, Chasmocarcinidae)
A new species of freshwater chasmocarcinid crab, Australocarcinus insperatus sp. n., is described from the Seychelles Islands in the Indian Ocean. This is the first record of the genus and the subfamily Trogloplacinae Guinot, 1986, from the Indian Ocean, with all other members previously recorded from Australia, New Britain, New Caledonia, and Palau in the Pacific Ocean. The disjunct distribution of Australocarcinus is unexpected considering all trogoplacines are believed to practice direct development, lacking free-swimming larval stages. The new species is morphologically most similar to A. riparius Davie, 1988, from Queensland, Australia, but can be distinguished from its three congeners on the basis of the structures of its carapace, ambulatory legs and male first gonopod.
["Chasmocarcinidae"]

First record of larvae of the water mite Hydrachna processifera Piersig, 1895 from Turkey (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Hydrachnidae)
Larvae of water mite Hydrachna processifera Piersig, 1895 (Acari, Hydrachnidiae) were reported on diving beetles Dytiscus marginalis Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae) from Turkey. The redescription of the larva was made. Earlier, the larva H. processifera was described as H. inermis, but it was subsequently synonymized with H. processifera. The larva of H. processifera is a new record for the Turkish fauna. All larvae of H. processifera were found on the mesosternum of the one specimens (prevalence = 16.7%).
["Dytiscus"]

Contribution to the knowledge of Saprinus Erichson, 1834 of forensic relevance from Lebanon (Coleoptera, Histeridae)
Many histerid beetles are necrophilous on carrion during both active and advanced stages of decomposition. In this study, 13 species of Saprinus were recorded on carrion from Lebanon, containing eight that are new for the Lebanese fauna. The following Saprinus species are newly recorded from Lebanon: 1) Saprinus (S.) caerulescens caerulescens (Hoffmann, 1803); 2) S. (S.) calatravensis Fuente, 1899; 3) S. (S.) chalcites (Illiger, 1807); 4) S. (S.) godet (Brullé, 1832); 5) S. (S.) maculatus (P. Rossi, 1792); 6) S. (S.) strigil Marseul, 1855; 7) S. (S.) submarginatus J. Sahlberg, 1913; and 8) S. (S.) tenuistrius sparsutus Solsky, 1876. The peak activity was recorded, key for the species is provided, and habitus images and male genitalia are illustrated in order to facilitate their taxonomic identifications. Saprinus species are diverse and common on animal carcass; they were likewise collected from a human cadaver in Lebanon. Preliminary comments on biology and distribution of the studied species are given. Our paper represents the first faunistic study on Histeridae from Lebanon. A rigorous research program regarding the biology of Saprinus in Lebanon and the neighbouring countries would greatly improve the knowledge of the diversity, activity, and possible forensic value of Saprinus.
["Carrion"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Four new species of Fissocantharis Pic, 1921 (Coleoptera, Cantharidae) from China
Four new species of Fissocantharis Pic, 1921 are described: F. securiclata sp. n. (China: Zhejiang, Anhui), F. maculicollis sp. n. (China: Zhejiang), F. hainana sp. n. (China: Hainan) and F. laticollis sp. n. (China: Hainan), which are illustrated with the habitus and aedeagus of the male, the abdominal sternite VIII and the internal genitalia of the female. A key to the species from southeast China is provided.

Trophic ecology of two co-existing Sub-Antarctic limpets of the genus Nacella: spatio-temporal variation in food availability and diet composition of Nacella magellanica and N. deaurata
Interactions between algae and herbivores can be affected by various factors, such as seasonality and habitat structure. Among herbivores inhabiting marine systems, species of the order Patellogastropoda are considered key organisms in many rocky coasts of the world. Nacella species are one of the most dominant macro-herbivores on the rocky shores of the sub-Antarctic ecoregion of Magellan. However, the importance of its key role must be associated with its trophic ecology. The objective of this work was to evaluate spatial and temporal variabilities in the dietary composition of two intertidal Nacella species, considering grazing on macro- (macroalgae) and microscopic (periphyton) food. The composition of periphyton and the availability of macroalgae in the winter and summer seasons were examined at two localities of the Magellanic province, alongside the gut contents of N. magellanica and N. deaurata. The dietary composition differed between the two Nacella species, as well as between seasons and locations. The differences observed in the diet of the two species of Nacella may be mainly due to their respective distributions in the intertidal zone. Both species presented a generalist strategy of grazing, which is relationed to the seasonality of micro- and macroalgae availability and to the variability of the assemblages between the localities. This research was the first to perform a detailed study of the diet of intertidal Nacella species.
["Gastropoda"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Description of a new species of Coelosis Hope from Guajira Peninsula, northern Colombia (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Dynastinae, Oryctini)
A new species of Coelosis is described from the Macuira Mountains, Guajira Peninsula, northern Colombia. A character comparison between this new and other previously known Colombian species in the genus is presented. A key for the identification and distributional map for Colombian species of Coelosis is provided, as well as a key for the genera included in the tribe Oryctini in Colombia.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

A new species of knob-scaled lizard (Xenosauridae, Xenosaurus) from the Sierra Madre Oriental of Puebla, Mexico
A new species of Xenosaurus in the X. tzacualtipantecus clade is described from the Sierra Madre Oriental of northern Puebla, Mexico. The new species differs from all of its congeners in possessing a unique combination of characters. The new species appears to be allopatric and fills in the geographic gap between the geographic distributions of X. tzacualtipantecus and the species in the newmanorum clade to the north and northwest and those of the species in the grandis and rackhami clades to the south and southeast. The new species occurs between approximately 880 m and 1470 m of elevation, and appears to be restricted to cloud forest, which has been replaced by coffee plantations in many areas. An updated key to the species of Xenosaurus is provided.
["Mexico"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Phylogenetics of Ogyges Kaup and the biogeography of Nuclear Central America (Coleoptera, Passalidae)
A phylogenetic morphological analysis of the genus Ogyges Kaup, distributed in Nuclear Central America, from Chiapas, Mexico, to northwestern Nicaragua was undertaken. Five species of Proculejus Kaup, distributed north of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Mexico, were selected as outgroup. Ogyges was recovered as monophyletic with three species groups: championi, laevissimus, and crassulus. Each species group shows a distinct, generally allopatric distribution. The O. championi species group, with ten species, is distributed in the Maya block, more specifically in the mountainous system north of the Motozintla-Comaltitlán fault in Chiapas, and north of the dry valleys of the Cuilco and Motagua rivers in Guatemala. The two remaining species groups are distributed in the Chortis block. The O. laevissimus species group, including seven species, ranges mostly along the Pacific Volcanic Chain from Guatemala to El Salvador, and from southeastern Honduras to the northwestern area of Nicaragua. The O. crassulus species group, with ten species, is distributed from northeastern Guatemala (Merendón) to northern Honduras. The Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Mexico, the Motagua-Cuilco and Motozintla-Comaltitlán sutures zones in Chiapas and Guatemala, the lowland valleys of Colón and Comalí rivers between Nicaragua and Honduras (or, perhaps, the northern suture of the Siuna Terrane in Nicaragua), the Guayape fault system in Honduras, and the intricate dry valleys of Ulúa-Chamelecón-Olancho in Honduras, are hypothesized to have acted as barriers that affected the geographical distribution of Ogyges, as well as probably other montane organisms.
["Proculejus"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Leptodactylus validus Garman, 1888 in Colombia: its distribution and identification
Leptodactylus validus is reported for the first time for Colombia, corresponding to the tenth species of the L. melanonotus species group occurring in the country. In collections, all L. validus specimens were identified as L. colombiensis. Morphological, coloration, and ecological characters are provided to differentiate the two species in Colombia. Furthermore, the distribution of L. validus is expanded based on the examination of specimens in both collections and literature records. In addition, the advertisement call of L. validus from Colombia is compared with those reported for other continental and insular populations; the calls are slightly more similar to those of insular populations.
["Advertisement call"]

Identification, sexual dimorphism, and allometric effects of three psyllid species of the genus Psyllopsis by geometric morphometric analysis (Hemiptera, Liviidae)
Jumping plant lice (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) are considered important vectors of plant diseases and also economically important pests in agriculture and forest ecosystems. Three psyllid species Psyllopsis repens Loginova, 1963, Psyllopsis securicola Loginova, 1963, and Psyllopsis machinosus Loginova, 1963 associated with the ash tree Fraxinus are morphologically very similar. So far, their distinction has been possible only by comparing their male and female genitalia. In this research, forewing shape and size characteristics, sexual dimorphism and their allometric effects, using geometric morphometric analysis, were examined for identification purposes. The results showed significant differences in wing shape and size between the species studied. Based on the results, two species P. machinosus and P. securicola can be differentiated with the vein M1+2, as in P. securicola the vein M1+2 is located between Rs and M3+4 veins, but the vein M1+2 is closer to the vein M3+4 in P. machinosus; also, P. repens can be differentiated from the two species P. machinosus and P. securicola by vein M. Hence, the veins M1+2, M3+4, Rs and M were the most important wing characters for discrimination of the three species, especially in the field. The analysis also showed significant differences in wing shape and size between male and female of the three species, and the allometric analysis showed that significant shape differences still remain in constant size in P. machinosus and P. repens. Geometric changes in the forewings of both sexes for the three species are illustrated.
["Diaphorinini"]
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest ecology and management"]

The genus Scaptodrosophila Duda part II: the coracina species group from East Asia, with morphological and molecular evidence (Diptera, Drosophilidae)
Eight new species of the Scaptodrosophila coracina species group are described from China: S. fuscilimba sp. n., S. fusciventricula sp. n., S. helvpecta sp. n., S. longispinata sp. n., S. nigrolimbata sp. n., S. trivittata sp. n., S. ventriobscurata sp. n., and S. zebrina sp. n. One known species S. coracina (Kikkawa & Peng) is redescribed. A key to all the examined species in the coracina group is provided. Species delimitations have been improved by integrating the DNA sequences with morphological information. The intra- and interspecific pairwise p-distances (proportional distance) are summarized. Some nucleotide sites with fixed status in the alignment of the COI sequences (662 nucleotide sites in length) are used as “pure” molecular diagnostic characters to delineate species in the coracina group.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

On Neotropical Merophysiinae with descriptions of a new genus and new species (Coleoptera, Endomychidae)
Intensive survey of museum collections and new field collecting resulted in discovery of six new, closely related species of the Neotropical Merophysiinae. A new species of the genus Lycoperdinella Champion, L. boliviensis sp. n., from Bolivia and Brazil, and five new species from Mexico for which a new genus is proposed here as Rueckeria gen. n.: R. inecol (type species), R. nigrileonis, R. ocelotl, R. puma, R. skelleyi spp. n., have been discovered. Lycoperdinella, Rueckeria gen. n., L. subcaeca Champion and all new species are diagnosed, described, and illustrated. Keys to the species of Lycoperdinella and Rueckeria and a distribution map are provided. A lectotype of Lycoperdinella subcaeca Champion, 1913 is designated. Molecular barcodes of three new species of Rueckeria are provided in order to help with the identification of these taxa.

Systematics of Phyllocnistis leaf-mining moths (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) feeding on dogwood (Cornus spp.) in Northeast Asia, with the description of three new species
During an ongoing DNA-barcoding campaign of the leaf-mining moths that feed on woody plants in Northeast Asia, four lineages of the genus Phyllocnistis (Gracillariidae, Phyllocnistinae) were discovered on dogwood (Cornus spp): P. cornella Ermolaev, 1987 on C. controversa Hemsl. (Japan: Hokkaido) and three new species – one feeding on C. controversa, C. florida L. and C. macrophylla Wall. in Japan (Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu), a second species on C. macrophylla in China (Yunnan) and a third on Siberian dogwood Cornus alba L. in Russia (Siberia). All these species showed differences in morphology, in the barcode region of the cytochrome c oxidase I gene and in two nuclear genes (histone H3 and 28S ribosomal RNA). No correlation was found between the deep mitochondrial splits observed and the Wolbachia infection pattern. Based on both morphological and molecular evidence, the three recently discovered lineages are described here as new species: P. indistincta Kobayashi & Triberti, sp. n. (Japan), P. saepta Kirichenko, Ohshima & Huang, sp. n. (China) and P. verae Kirichenko, Triberti & Lopez-Vaamonde, sp. n. (Russia). In addition, the authors re-describe the adult morphology of P. cornella, provide the first record of this species from Japan and highlight the diagnostic characters that allow these Cornus-feeding Phyllocnistis species to be distinguished.
["Phyllocnistis"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Anagrus dmitrievi sp. n. (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae), an egg parasitoid of Zyginidia eremita (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae), a pest of maize in Xinjiang, China
A new Palaearctic species of Anagrus Haliday (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae), A. (Anagrus) dmitrievi Triapitsyn & Hu, sp. n., is described, diagnosed, and illustrated from Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. It was reared from parasitized eggs of the leafhopper Zyginidia (Zyginidia) eremita Zachvatkin (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae) on leaves of maize. A key to the 21 named species of Anagrus known from China is provided. Zyginidia eremita is an important economic pest in Xinjiang, occurring in approximately 90% of maize fields. The phenology and life cycle of Z. eremita is summarized. Parasitism of its eggs by A. dmitrievi in maize fields was 12–75 % (average about 38 %), thus making it a rather effective natural enemy.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new genus and species of Sphyrapodidae (Crustacea, Peracarida, Tanaidacea) from the southern coast of the South Korea
Wandogarida canalicula gen. n et sp. n. (Tanaidacea, Sphyrapodidae) is described from the southern coast of Korea (NW Pacific). The genus is included in the subfamily SphyrapodinaeGuţu, 1980 by having a mandible lacking a palp. It has a close affinity with the genus Poligarida Bamber & Marshall, 2013 in the third pereonite having lateral pointed apophyses, the antennule of males with fringes of aesthetascs on articles 1 and 2 of the outer flagellum and the antenna with an elongate article 2. However, it is distinguished from Poligarida by having a maxillular palp. Wandogarida gen. n. can be differentiated from other genera within the subfamily Sphyrapodinae by the unique shape characterised by the male’s antennule article 1 with its rough denticles and a deep groove, pleonites each with a ventral hyposphenium, the maxillule with uniarticulate palp and the presence of prominent sexual dimorphism in the mouthparts. An identification key to the five genera of the subfamily Sphyrapodinae is presented.
["Tanaidacea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A new species of the genus Pseudocrangonyx (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Pseudocrangonyctidae) from Korea
A new subterranean species of pseudocrangonyctid amphipod, Pseudocrangonyx daejeonensis sp. n. is described from the interstitial waters in Daejeon, Korea. Pseudocrangonyx daejeonensis sp. n. is distinguished from three morphologically similar congeners, P. coreanus Uéno, 1966, P. febras Sidorov, 2009, and P. gudariensis Tomikawa & Sato, 2016, by the characteristics of antenna 1, antenna 2, mandible, gnathopod 2, pleopods, uropods 1–2, and telson. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear 28S rRNA and histone H3, and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and 16S rRNA genes revealed that P. daejeonensis is a sister species of the unnamed Pseudocrangonyx sp. 3 inhabiting central Japan.
["Crangonyctoidea"]
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Two new species of the bamboo-feeding planthopper genus Bambusiphaga Huang & Ding from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae)
Two new species of the bamboo-feeding genus Bambusiphaga Huang & Ding, 1979, B. yingjiangensis sp. n. and B. ventroprocessa sp. n., are described and illustrated from Yunnan and Hainan, south China. A key to species of the genus are given. A map showing the geographic distribution of the two new species is also provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Plant Molecular Biology Research"]

Two new species of the genus Hessebius Verhoeff, 1941 from China (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
Two new species, Hessebius luquensis sp. n. and Hessebius ruoergaiensis sp. n., are described based on material from Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. A key to the Chinese species of Hessebius is presented. The partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcoding gene was amplified and sequenced for nine individuals of both species and the dataset was used for molecular phylogenetic analysis and genetic distance determination.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Mayaweckelia troglomorpha, a new subterranean amphipod species from Yucatán state, México (Amphipoda, Hadziidae)
A detailed description of a new stygobiont species of the amphipod family Hadziidae, Mayaweckelia troglomorpha Angyal, sp. n. is given, based on material collected in four cenotes of Yucatán federal state, México. Morphology was studied under light microscopy and with scanning electron microscopy. Morphological description is complemented with mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences as barcodes, with affinities to the related taxa and with notes on the species’ ecology. Using COI Bayesian inference and genetic distance analyses, we show that the closest relative of the new species is M. cenoticola, forming a monophyletic group referring to the genus Mayaweckelia. Based on the available sequences, we also revealed that Mayaweckelia and Tuluweckelia are sister genera, standing close to the third Yucatán subterranean genus, Bahadzia. The data gathered on the habitat, distribution, abundance, and ecology will contribute to the conservation planning for M. troglomorpha Angyal, sp. n.
["cenote"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A new species of Turbanellidae (Gastrotricha, Macrodasyida) from Jamaica, with a key to species of Paraturbanella
The study falls within the framework of a wider research programme aimed at investigating the gastrotrich diversity of the Tropical North-Western Atlantic (TNWA). A new macrodasyidan gastrotrich is described from fine-medium sand collected at Duncans Bay, Jamaica. The description is based on observations carried out on living specimens using differential interference contrast microscopy. Paraturbanella xaymacana sp. n., the third gastrotrich taxon reported from Jamaica, is a mid-sized species, up to 564 μm long, with a feeble peribuccal swelling. The most obvious autapomorphic traits pertain to the testes and the male pore, both of which are located approximately at mid body, rather than at- or near the pharyngo-intestinal junction as occur in the other species of the genus. Additional differences with congeners are discussed and a key to the Paraturbanella species is provided, in the hope it will be useful to both gastrotrich experts and marine ecologists who discover these microscopic metazoans during their research.
["Benthos"]

Seven new species of Pinelema from Vietnam (Araneae, Telemidae)
Seven new species of the spider genus Pinelema Wang & Li, 2012, from Vietnam are reported: P. damtaoensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. nuocnutensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. laensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. pacchanensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. spirulata Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. xiezi Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), and P. zhenzhuang Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀). Prior to the current study, this genus contained eight species and was known only from southwestern China. The diagnosis of the genus is updated, accounting for characters found in the new species.
["haplogynae"]

Streptocephalus diversity in Myanmar, with description of a new species (Branchiopoda, Anostraca)
The diversity of anostracans in Myanmar is poorly known. A series of biodiversity surveys had been conducted in Myanmar, and two species of Streptocephalus were collected in the central dry zone. Streptocephalus sirindhornae Sanoamuang et al., 2000 is reported in Myanmar for the first time, and Streptocephalus shinsawbuae sp. n. is described as new. Streptocephalus shinsawbuae sp. n. belongs to the S. dichotomus group and is similar to S. simplex Bond, 1934 and S. sahyadriensis Rogers & Padhye, 2014, but can be distinguished by the form of the male antennal posterior primary ramus and anterior primary ramus apex and egg ornamentation. Streptocephalus dichotomus has been reported from Myanmar in the past but was not found in this survey.
["Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

New hairworm (Nematomorpha, Gordiida) species described from the Arizona Madrean Sky Islands
Gordiids, or freshwater hairworms, are members of the phylum Nematomorpha that use terrestrial definitive hosts (arthropods) and live as adults in rivers, lakes, or streams. The genus Paragordius consists of 18 species, one of which was described from the Nearctic in 1851. More than 150 years later, we are describing a second Paragordius species from a unique habitat within the Nearctic; the Madrean Sky Island complex. The Madrean Sky Islands are a series of isolated high mountains in northern Mexico and the southwestern United States (Arizona and New Mexico), and are well known for their high diversity and endemicity. The new species is described based on both molecular data (COI barcoding) and morphological characters of the eggs, larvae, cysts, and adults. Adult females have unique small oblong mounds present on the interior of the trifurcating lobes with randomly dispersed long hairs extending from the furrows between the mounds. Marked genetic differences support observed morphological differences. This species represents the second new hairworm to be described from the Madrean Sky Islands, and it may represent the first endemic hairworm from this biodiversity hotspot.
["Nematomorpha"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

First records of the uristid lysianassoids from Korean waters: redescription of Anonyx abei Takekawa & Ishimaru, 2001 and description of Anonyx exilipes sp. n. (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Uristidae)
The uristid lysianassoids are reported for the first time from Korean waters with a redescription of Anonyx abei Takekawa & Ishimaru, 2001 and the description of Anonyx exilipes sp. n. Anonyx abei is characterized by a distinctively small projection of the posterodistal corner on epimeron 3, different from all species of the Anonyx nugax group which share a constriction at the point of insertion of a distal seta on the inner ramus of uropod 2. Anonyx exilipes sp. n. is included in the Anonyx laticoxae group characterized by the unconstricted inner ramus of uropod 2. This new species is distinguished from other A. laticoxae group species by the longer and more slender carpus and propodus of pereopod 6, and the non-lobate merus of pereopod 7.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Fishes of the Cusiana River (Meta River basin, Colombia), with an identification key to its species
The Cusiana River sub-basin has been identified as a priority conservation area in the Orinoco region in Colombia due to its high species diversity. This study presents an updated checklist and identification key for fishes of the Cusiana River sub-basin. The checklist was assembled through direct examination of specimens deposited in the main Colombian ichthyological collections. A total of 2020 lots from 167 different localities from the Cusiana River sub-basin were examined and ranged from 153 to 2970 m in elevation. The highest number of records were from the piedmont region (1091, 54.0 %), followed by the Llanos (878, 43.5 %) and Andean (51, 2.5 %). 241 species distributed in 9 orders, 40 families, and 158 genera were found. The fish species richness observed (241), represents 77.7 % of the 314 estimated species (95 % CI=276.1–394.8). The use of databases to develop lists of fish species is not entirely reliable; therefore taxonomic verification of specimens in collections is essential. The results will facilitate comparisons with other sub-basins of the Orinoquia, which are not categorized as areas of importance for conservation in Colombia.
["Andean Orinoquia"]

The first records of Stenobermuda Schultz, 1982 and Tenupedunculus Schultz, 1979 from Australia, with description of two new species from the Great Barrier Reef (Isopoda, Asellota, Stenetriidae)
The genera Tenupedunculus Schultz, 1982 and Stenobermuda Schultz, 1979 are recorded for the first time from beyond the Southern Ocean, at the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Tenupedunculus serrulatus sp. n. and Stenobermuda warooga sp. n. are described from Heron Island and Lizard Island respectively, both in the Great Barrier Reef. The genus Tenupedunculus is revised and a new diagnosis presented, with Tenupedunculus virginale Schultz, 1982, T. pulchrum (Schultz, 1982), and T. serrulatus sp. n. being retained within the genus, and the remaining species here regarded as Stenetriidaeincertae sedis (eight species).
["Asellota"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Ampithoidae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from New Zealand
Ampithoidae is a family of marine Amphipoda with approximately 230 species, belonging to 16 genera. The family has a worldwide distribution as algal dwellers. So far only five species are known from New Zealand. Recent collections and examination of historic collection material added two new species, which are described herein. An overview of and a key to the New Zealand Ampithoidae is provided.
["Algae dweller"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Revision of the genus-group Hystricella R. T. Lowe, 1855 from Porto Santo (Madeira Archipelago), with descriptions of new recent and fossil taxa (Gastropoda, Helicoidea, Geomitridae)
The genus-group Hystricella R. T. Lowe, 1855 is revised on the basis of conchological, anatomical and genetic characteristics. A new genus Wollastonia gen. n., two recent species, W. jessicae sp. n. and W. klausgrohi sp. n., and one recent subspecies, W. jessicae monticola ssp. n. are described as new to science, as well as five fossil taxa, H. microcarinata sp. n., W. beckmanni sp. n., W. falknerorum sp. n., W. ripkeni sp. n., and W. inexpectata sp. n. For Helix vermetiformis R. T. Lowe, 1855, H. leacockiana Wollaston, 1878, H. oxytropis R. T. Lowe, 1831, H. duplicata R. T. Lowe, 1831 and H. oxytropis var. ß subcarinulata Wollaston, 1878 lectotypes are designated. For the taxa Helix bicarinata G. B. Sowerby I, 1824, Helix bicarinata var. ß aucta Wollaston, 1878 and Discula bulverii W. Wood, 1828 neotypes are selected. The taxa aucta and subcarinulata are elevated to specific rank. For the hitherto monospecific (sub-) genus Callina R. T. Lowe, 1855 it is shown that it is not closely related to the genus Discula but to the Hystricella-group and its generic rank is confirmed. The taxon D. bulverii W. Wood, 1828 is transferred from the genus Discula s. str. to the genus Callina. A further fossil taxon C. waldeni sp. n. is described as new to science.
["Callina"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

On a new species of Amphilochus from deep and cold Atlantic waters, with a note on the genus Amphilochopsis (Amphipoda, Gammaridea, Amphilochidae)
Amphilochus manudens and Amphilochopsis hamatus are redescribed based on specimens from the BioIce, Mareano, and IceAGE programmes. The new species Amphilochus anoculus sp. n. is described based on material from the IceAGE programme and the preceding BioIce programme; it is separated from the closely related Amphilochus manudens by the absence of eyes, a symmetrically bilobed labrum, four setae on the maxilla 2 outer plate, a rounded corner of epimeral plate 3, and a robust seta at the tip of the telson. There are also clear differences in depth and temperature ranges. Amphilochopsis hamatus is shown to be closely related to Amphilochus manudens and A. anoculus and transferred to Amphilochus s. str.
["Amphilochus"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Revision of the world species of the genus Habroteleia Kieffer (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae, Scelioninae)
The genus Habroteleia Kieffer is revised. Seven species are recognized, three are redescribed: H. flavipes Kieffer, H. persimilis (Kozlov & Kononova), H. ruficoxa (Kieffer); and four species are described as new: H. mutabilis Chen & Talamas, sp. n., H. salebra Chen & Talamas, sp. n., H. soa Chen & Talamas, sp. n., and H. spinosa Chen & Johnson, sp. n. Four species are treated as junior synonyms of Habroteleia flavipes Kieffer: Chrestoteleia bakeri Kieffer, syn. n., Habroteleia bharatensis Saraswat, syn. n., Habroteleia browni Crawford, syn. n., and Habroteleia kotturensis (Sharma), syn. n. Habroteleia dagavia (Kozlov & Lê), syn. n. is treated as junior synonym of Habroteleia persimilis (Kozlov & Kononova). Baryconus vindhiensis (Sharma), comb. n. is transferred out of Habroteleia Kieffer. Habroteleia impressa (Kieffer) and H. scapularis (Kieffer) remain valid species but their identity and status are unclear.
["Platygastroidea"]
["Finance, Taxation, and Governance", "Administrative Law and Governance", "Human Rights and Immigration"]

Distribution of endangered Italian gudgeon Romanogobio benacensis (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae, Gobioninae) with remarks on distinguishing morphological characters
Distribution data on many freshwater fish species in Croatia are scarce and species identifications are difficult, requiring further detailed studies. This paper presents a report of the Italian gudgeon Romanogobio benacensis from the Mirna River in the Istra Peninsula in Croatia, in the south-east from its previously known distribution range. The identification of R. benacensis in Croatia was supported by a morphological comparison with R. benacensis from Italy and Slovenia, the common gudgeon Gobio gobio, and the Danubian gudgeon Gobio obtusirostris from geographically close locations. A combination of character states (number of scales between anus and anal-fin origin, branched pectoral-fin rays, lateral-line scales, total, abdominal, and caudal vertebrae, and the size and number of lateral blotches) distinguishes R. benacensis from both G. gobio and G. obtusirostris. The phylogenetic analyses using mitochondrial sequences of cytochrome b gene confirmed that specimens from the Mirna River belong to R. benacensis. Also, Reka River system (Adriatic Sea basin) in Slovenia is inhabited by a possibly introduced Danubian gudgeon, G. obtusirostris, and not by R. benacensis.
["Adriatic basin"]

More new deep-reef basslets (Teleostei, Grammatidae, Lipogramma), with updates on the eco-evolutionary relationships within the genus
Two new Lipogramma basslets are described, L. barrettorum and L. schrieri, captured during submersible diving to 300 m depth off Curaçao, southern Caribbean. Superficially resembling L. robinsi in having 11–12 bars of pigment on the trunk, L. barrettorum is distinct from L. robinsi in having a stripe of blue-white pigment along the dorsal midline of the head (vs. a cap of yellow pigment), in patterns of pigment on the median fins, and in having 8–10 gill rakers on the lower limb of the first arch (vs. 11–12). Lipogramma schrieri is distinct from all congeners in having seven or eight dark bars of pigment on the trunk and broad, irregular, whitish blue markings on the dorsal portion of the head. The new species are genetically distinct from one another and from seven other Lipogramma species for which genetic data are available. A phylogenetic hypothesis derived from mitochondrial and nuclear genes suggests that the new species belong to a clade that also comprises L. evides and L. haberi. Collectively those four species are the deepest-living members of the genus, occurring at depths predominantly below 140 m. This study thus provides further evidence of eco-evolutionary correlations between depth and phylogeny in Caribbean reef fishes. Tropical deep reefs are globally underexplored ecosystems, and further investigation of Caribbean deep reefs undoubtedly will provide samples of species for which no genetic material currently exists and reveal more cryptic species diversity in the genus.
["Caribbean Sea"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Deep-Water Octocorals (Cnidaria, Anthozoa) from the Galápagos and Cocos Islands. Part 1: Suborder Calcaxonia
Thirteen species of deep-water calcaxonian octocorals belonging to the families Primnoidae, Chrysogorgiidae, and Isididae collected from off the Galápagos and Cocos Islands are described and figured. Seven of these species are described as new; nine of the 13 are not known outside the Galápagos region. Of the four species occurring elsewhere, two also occur in the eastern Pacific, one off Hawaii, and one from off Antarctica. A key to the 22 Indo-Pacific species of Callogorgia is provided to help distinguish those species.
["Octocorals"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

A review of the Madagascan pelican spiders of the genera Eriauchenius O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1881 and Madagascarchaea gen. n. (Araneae, Archaeidae)
An endemic genus of Madagascan spiders (Araneae, Archaeidae, Eriauchenius) is revised. All 20 species of Eriauchenius are described and keyed, of which 14 are new species: Eriauchenius andriamanelo sp. n., Eriauchenius andrianampoinimerina sp. n., Eriauchenius goodmani sp. n., Eriauchenius harveyi sp. n., Eriauchenius lukemacaulayi sp. n., Eriauchenius milajaneae sp. n., Eriauchenius milloti sp. n., Eriauchenius rafohy sp. n., Eriauchenius ranavalona sp. n., Eriauchenius rangita sp. n., Eriauchenius rixi sp. n., Eriauchenius sama sp. n., Eriauchenius wunderlichi sp. n., Eriauchenius zirafy sp. n. Additionally, six species of the new genus Madagascarchaea gen. n. are described and keyed, of which four are new species: Madagascarchaea fohy sp. n., Madagascarchaea lotzi sp. n., Madagascarchaea moramora sp. n., Madagascarchaea rabesahala sp. n. Diagnostic characters for the Madagascan and African genera are described, and based on these characters and previous phylogenetic analyses the following species transfers are proposed: Eriauchenius cornutus (Lotz, 2003) to Afrarchaea; Afrarchaea fisheri (Lotz, 2003) and Afrarchaea mahariraensis (Lotz, 2003) to Eriauchenius. Finally, we propose that the distribution of Afrarchaea be restricted to South Africa. While several Madagascan specimens have previously been identified as Afrarchaea godfreyi (Hewitt, 1919), we argue that these are likely misidentifications that should instead be Eriauchenius.
["Afrarchaea"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Seven new species of the spider genus Ochyrocera from caves in Floresta Nacional de Carajás, PA, Brazil (Araneae, Ochyroceratidae)
Seven new species of the spider genus Ochyrocera from cave areas in Floresta Nacional de Carajás (state of Pará, northern Brazil) are described: Ochyrocera varys sp. n., Ochyrocera atlachnacha sp. n., Ochyrocera laracna sp. n., Ochyrocera aragogue sp. n., Ochyrocera misspider sp. n., Ochyrocera charlotte sp. n., and Ochyrocera ungoliant sp. n. Two groups of the species are discussed, the quinquivittata group that include specimens with an apparently bifid retrolateral apophysis in the cymbium of the male palp and the arietina group, here proposed, that include those specimens with an entire cymbium, with no retrolateral apophysis, in the male palp. Although these species were abundant inside caves, the examined specimens do not have troglomorphic characteristics and can be classified as edaphic troglophile species, capable of completing its life cycle in soil, shallow subterranean habitats, or caves.
["Amazonian region"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

The first fossil brown lacewing from the Miocene of the Tibetan Plateau (Neuroptera, Hemerobiidae)
A new species of Hemerobiidae, Wesmaelius makarkini Yang, Pang & Ren, sp. n. is described from the Lower Miocene, Garang Formation of Zeku County, Qinghai Province (northeastern Tibetan Plateau), China. The species is assigned to the widely distributed extant genus Wesmaelius Krüger (Hemerobiinae). The species represents the first named fossil of this family from China, which sheds light on the historical distribution of Wesmaelius and early divergences within Hemerobiinae.
["Cenozoic"]

Species limits within the widespread Amazonian treefrog Dendropsophus parviceps with descriptions of two new species (Anura, Hylidae)
The genus Dendropsophus is one of the most speciose among Neotropical anurans and its number of described species is increasing. Herein, molecular, morphological, and bioacoustic evidence are combined to assess species limits within D. parviceps, a widely distributed species in the Amazon Basin. Phylogenetic relationships were assessed using 3040 bp sequences of mitochondrial DNA, genes 12S, ND1, and CO1. The phylogeny shows three well-supported clades. Bioacoustic and morphological divergence is congruent with those clades demonstrating that Dendropsophus parviceps is a species complex. Dendropsophus parvicepssensu stricto occurs in the Amazon basin of Ecuador, northern Peru, southern Colombia and northwestern Brazil. It is sister to two previously undescribed species, D. kubricki sp. n. from central Peru and D. kamagarini sp. n. from southern Peru, northeastern Bolivia, and northwestern Brazil. Genetic distances (uncorrected p, gene 12S) between D. parviceps and the new species is 3 to 4%. Dendropsophus kamagarini sp. n. can be distinguished from D. parviceps by having a prominent conical tubercle on the distal edge of the upper eyelid (tubercle absent in D. parviceps). Dendropsophus kubricki sp. n. differs from D. parviceps by having scattered low tubercles on the upper eyelids (smooth in D. parviceps). Dendropsophus parviceps and both new species differ from all their congeners by their small size (adult maximum SVL = 28.39 mm in females, 22.73 mm in males) and by having a bright orange blotch on the hidden areas of the shanks and under arms. The advertisement call of the two new species has lower dominant frequency relative to D. parviceps. Probable speciation modes are discussed. Available evidence indicates that ecological speciation along an elevation gradient is unlikely in this species complex.
["Advertisement call"]

Two new species of Lobellini from Tianmu Mountain, China (Collembola, Neanuridae)
Three species of the subfamily Neanurinae (Collembola: Neanuridae) are recorded from Tianmu Mountain, Zhejiang Province, east China. Two of them, Lobellina fusa sp. n. and Paralobella tianmuna sp. n., are new to science and described in this paper. Lobellina fusa sp. n. can be recognized by the presence of six teeth on mandible and the fusion of dorsointernal tubercles on the head. Paralobella tianmuna sp. n. is characterized by a mandible with seven teeth, the lateral tubercle of Abd. II–III respectively with 7 (6+s) chaetae. Crossodonthina bidentata Luo & Chen, 2009 is widely distributed in the mountain from 300 to 1500 m a.s.l.
["Crossodonthina"]

A missing piece in the puzzle: the presence of Euglossa viridissima in the Baja California Peninsula (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Orchid bees are a conspicuous component of the neotropical bee fauna, with a few species reaching the northernmost natural distribution for the group in northwestern continental Mexico. Among them, Euglossa viridissima Friese is here reported for the first time in the Cape Region of the Baja California peninsula, Mexico, where no species of the group have been found previously. These records are presented, their biogeographical implications discussed, and some interpretations of the local factors that influence the bees is presented.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Three new species and the molecular phylogeny of Antipathozoanthus from the Indo-Pacific Ocean (Anthozoa, Hexacorallia, Zoantharia)
In this study, three new species of macrocnemic zoantharians (Hexacorallia, Zoantharia) are described from localities in the Indo-Pacific Ocean including the Red Sea, the Maldives, Palau, and southern Japan: Antipathozoanthus obscurus sp. n., A. remengesaui sp. n., and A. cavernus sp. n. Although the genus Antipathozoanthus is currently restricted to species living on antipatharians, A. obscurus sp. n. is not associated with any living substrate and instead is found on coral reef carbonate substrate within narrow caves or cracks. The two new species that have association with antipatharians, A. remengesaui sp. n. and A. cavernus sp. n., can be distinguished by their relative coenenchyme development and the antipatharian species that each uses as substrate. Additionally, all new species described in this study have unique nuclear internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA (ITS-rDNA) sequences. Our results indicate that more phylogenetic studies focusing on increasing the numbers of species examined within each of the genera of Parazoanthidae are required in order to better understand the evolutionary history of substrate specificity within the family Parazoanthidae.
["antipatharian"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The first record of Telemidae from Kenya, with the description of two new species (Arachnida, Araneae)
Two new species of Telemidae from Kenya are described: Guhua kakamegaensis Zhao & Li, gen. et sp. n., Apneumonella taitatavetaensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. Holotypes are deposited in the National Museum of Kenya in Nairobi, and all paratypes are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing. A distribution map of Telemidae found in Kenya is presented.
["East Africa"]

New contributions to the leafhopper genus Gladkara from Thailand (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae, Erythroneurini)
General characteristics of Gladkara Dworakowska and a checklist to all the known species of this genus are provided. A new species Gladkara klongensis Song & Dietrich, sp. n. from Thailand is added.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Trichopeltis Pocock, 1894 from southern China, with a checklist and a distribution map of Trichopeltis species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Cryptodesmidae)
The millipede genus Trichopeltis Pocock, 1894 contains 12 described species including a new species from southern China described here. Trichopeltis sutchariti sp. n. can be distinguished from congeners by its gonopods that are strongly caudolaterally curved and have a prominent, high, curved, densely setose process on each coxa. An updated checklist and a distribution map are provided for all species of the genus.
["Millipede"]

Whitefly predation and extensive mesonotum color polymorphism in an Acletoxenus population from Singapore (Diptera, Drosophilidae)
Acletoxenus is a small genus of Drosophilidae with only four described species that are closely associated with whiteflies (adults and larvae). Here, the first video recordings of larvae feeding on whiteflies (Aleurotrachelus trachoides) are presented. Typical morphological adaptations for predation by schizophoran larvae are also described: the larval pseudocephalon lacks a facial mask and the cephaloskeleton is devoid of cibarial ridges that could be used for saprophagy via filtration. Despite being a predator, Acletoxenus is unlikely to be a good candidate for biological control of whiteflies because the life cycle is fairly long (24 days), lab cultures could not be established, and the puparia have high parasitization rates by a pteromalid wasp (Pachyneuron leucopiscida). Unfortunately, a confident identification of the Singapore Acletoxenus population to species was not possible because species identification and description in the genus overemphasize coloration characters of the mesonotum which are shown to be unsuitable because the Singapore population has flies with coloration patterns matching three of the four described species. Based on morphology and DNA sequences, the population from Singapore is tentatively assigned to Acletoxenus indicus or a closely related species.
["Acletoxenus"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Southern limits of distribution of the intertidal gobies Chaenogobius annularis and C. gulosus support the existence of a biogeographic boundary in southern Japan (Teleostei, Perciformes, Gobiidae)
Understanding the distributional patterns of individual animal groups with respect to coastal topology and the local physical environment provides essential foundational frameworks for marine zoogeography. In the northwestern Pacific waters of Japan, the distributional pattern of some cool-temperate species of marine fishes suggests the existence of a biogeographic boundary corresponding to a long sandy shore on the eastern coast of Kyushu, southern Japan. The existence of this hypothetical biogeographic boundary was tested by mapping the southern distributional limit of two species of cool-temperate intertidal gobies, Chaenogobius annularis and C. gulosus, which are endemic to East Asia and common in rock pools within their range in the Japanese Archipelago. Distribution and abundance were assessed by survey of museum collections from south-east Kyushu (i.e., the entire coasts of Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures); and a quantitative survey of the abundance of these gobies in rock pools at various sites around the hypothesized boundary on the eastern coast of Kyushu, including the subtropical Tanega-shima Island. The museum collection survey showed different distribution patterns between the two species: C. annularis was distributed along the entire coasts of south-east Kyushu including subtropical islands, whereas C. gulosus was distributed along these coasts, including one site on a subtropical island, except for an area south of the hypothesized boundary on the eastern coast of Kyushu. The density and occurrence rates of C. annularis in rock pools decreased with latitude, it being absent from a subtropical island, and C. gulosus was not detected from sites south of the hypothesized boundary. The qualitative survey showed that the southernmost records of C. annularis and C. gulosus were the adjacent subtropical islands (Yaku-shima and Tanega-shima islands respectively), although the quantitative survey suggested that their normal range of distribution was limited to the southern part of the Kyushu mainland. A combination of qualitative and quantitative survey methods in the present study highlighted that the southernmost record of a certain species may not necessarily indicate the true limit of its distribution. The distribution of C. gulosus supports the existence of the hypothetical biogeographic boundary, and the different distribution patterns of the two species may be caused by differences in their early life histories.
["Distributional range"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Marine animal studies overview", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Review of the genus Locastra Walker, 1859 from China, with descriptions of four new species (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Epipaschiinae)
The genus Locastra Walker, 1859 from China is reviewed. Of the five species treated, four species are described as new: L. nigrilineata sp. n., L. solivaga sp. n., L. subtrapezia sp. n. and L. viridis sp. n. A diagnosis of L. muscosalis (Walker, 1866) is given. Photographs of adults and the genitalia are provided, along with a key to the five Chinese species treated.

A new species of Rana from the Dabie Mountains in eastern China (Anura, Ranidae)
A new species Rana dabieshanensis sp. n. is described from the Dabie Mountains in Anhui Province, China, based on morphological character differences and molecular analyses. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of diagnostic characters. The results of phylogenetic analyses (based on 12s rRNA, 16s rRNA, ND2, Cyt b, RAG1, BDNF and Tyr) and genetic distances (based on Cyt b) indicate that the new species belongs to the Rana longicrus group, and is placed as the sister taxon to R. hanluica.

Two new Dolichothele Mello-Leitão, 1923 species from Brazil and Bolivia (Araneae, Theraphosidae)
Two new species of Dolichothele Mello-Leitão, 1923 are described from Brazil and Bolivia, D. mottai sp. n. from Distrito Federal and the state of Goiás, Brazil, and D. camargorum sp. n. from the state of Rondônia, Brazil, and the La Paz region, Bolivia. Males of the two new species resemble Dolichothele bolivianum (Vol, 2001) in having a small subapical keel on the distal embolus and females in particular by the short spermatheca. Dolichothele bolivianum is redescribed, and its geographical distribution is herein restricted to Bolivia and the state of Mato Grosso in Brazil.
["Bolivia"]

Two new species of Thyridosmylus Krüger, 1913 from Madagascar (Neuroptera, Osmylidae)
The lance lacewing genus Thyridosmylus Krüger (Osmylidae: Spilosmylinae) is found in Madagascar and Southeast Asia. Two new Malagasy species are described herein, Thyridosmylus fuscomarginatus Xu, Wang & Winterton, sp. n., and Thyridosmylus longiprocessus Xu, Wang & Winterton, sp. n. A key to differentiate the Malagasy species of Thyridosmylus is provided.
["lacewing"]

Aquatic dance flies (Diptera, Empididae, Clinocerinae and Hemerodromiinae) of Greece: species richness, distribution and description of five new species
All records of aquatic dance flies (37 species in subfamily Clinocerinae and 10 species in subfamily Hemerodromiinae) from the territory of Greece are summarized, including previously unpublished data and data on five newly described species (Chelifera horvati Ivković & Sinclair, sp. n., Wiedemannia iphigeniae Ivković & Sinclair, sp. n., W. ljerkae Ivković & Sinclair, sp. n., W. nebulosa Ivković & Sinclair, sp. n. and W. pseudoberthelemyi Ivković & Sinclair, sp. n.). The new species are described and illustrated, the male terminalia of Clinocera megalatlantica (Vaillant) are illustrated and the distributions of all species within Greece are listed. The aquatic Empididae fauna of Greece consists of 47 species, with the following described species reported for the first time: Chelifera angusta Collin, Hemerodromia melangyna Collin, Clinocera megalatlantica, Kowarzia plectrum (Mik), Phaeobalia dimidiata (Loew), W. (Chamaedipsia) beckeri (Mik), W. (Philolutra) angelieri Vaillant and W. (P.) chvali Joost. A key to species of aquatic Empididae of Greece is provided for the first time. Information related to the European Ecoregions in which species were found is given. Compared to the other studied countries in the Balkans, the Greek species assemblage is most similar to that of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
["Clinocerinae"]

Magadhaideus, a new genus of the tribe Plectoderini with the description of a new species from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Achilidae)
A new planthopper genus and species from China, Magadhaideus xiphos Long & Chen, gen. et sp. n. (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Achilidae: Plectoderini), is described and illustrated. A new combination, Magadhaideus cervina (Fennah, 1956), comb. n. transferred from Magadha Distant and a key to species of the new genus are also given.
["Achilid"]

Riparian Collembola (Hexapoda) communities of northern Moldova, Eastern Europe
Collembola were studied in a well-preserved riverine section of the Prut River in the Republic of Moldova. The study was focused on species diversity and habitat preferences of the particular species at two localities. Riparian habitats of the Prut River near Branişte included open river bank, forest belt and meadow, and the shore of Lake Costeşti-Stânca included meadow, pasture and shrub vegetation. In total 77 collembolan species were recorded, of which Neanura moldavica and Arrhopalites prutensis were endemic to Moldova. Comparative analyses showed a specific community composition at Branişte, with Anurida ellipsoides and Mesaphorura macrochaeta being abundant on the river bank and Hemisotoma thermophila in the meadow. In contrast, the forest plantation at the same locality was similar to the shrub-land in Costeşti, with the common species Mesaphorura critica, M. yosii, Deutonura albella and Isotomiella minor. Hygrophilous species preferred the habitats of the river section in Branişte, with quiet backwaters, to the artificial shoreline of the large lake. Species diversity was relatively high in the natural meadow and forest in Branişte and also in shrub-land on the lake shore. The present study documented relatively high collembolan species diversity at the shoreline and running water sections in the upper catchment area of the Prut River in Moldova that involve naturally valuable inundated habitats of Eastern Europe.
["Soil fauna"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine and environmental studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Review of Stantonia Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Orgilinae) from Vietnam, China, Japan, and Russia, with descriptions of six new species
The genus Stantonia Ashmead, 1904 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Orgilinae) is reviewed for Vietnam, China, Japan, and Russia. Six new species of the genus Stantonia are described and illustrated: Stantonia brevicaudata van Achterberg, sp. n., S. dickyyui van Achterberg & Long, sp. n., S. granulata Long & van Achterberg, sp. n., S. robustifemur van Achterberg & Long, sp. n., S. stilpnosoma Long & van Achterberg, sp. n., and S. vietnamica van Achterberg, sp. n. A new subgenus (Planitonia subg. n.: type species Stantonia robustifemur van Achterberg & Long, sp. n.) is proposed for the species with a flat clypeus and face, and reduced vein r-m of the fore wing. Three species are newly recorded from Vietnam: Stantonia gracilis van Achterberg, 1987, S. sumatrana Enderlein, 1908, and S. tianmushana Chen, He & Ma, 2004. A key to species of Stantonia from Vietnam, China, Russia, and Japan is provided.
["Braconidae"]

New species and records of terrestrial slugs from East Africa (Gastropoda, Urocyclidae, Veronicellidae, Agriolimacidae)
New and little-known terrestrial slugs are dealt with based on extensive collections made in East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) 1993–2007. This account deals primarily with larger species from forests in the Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania. In Veronicellidae, Pseudoveronicella Germain, 1908 is extended to Tanzania by P. (Hoffmannia) zootoca tanzaniensissubsp. n. in the Udzungwa Mts. In Urocyclidae, Dendrolimax parensis sp. n. is described from the Pare Mts. and Leptichnoides avisexcrementis sp. n. is described from the Uluguru Mts. In Urocyclinae, Tanzalimax tattersfieldi gen. & sp. n. is described from the Usambara Mts., Tanzalimax seddonae gen. & sp. n. from the Uluguru Mts., and Udzungwalimax suminis gen. & sp. n. from the Udzungwa Mts. In addition, the ill-defined genus Atrichotoxon Simroth, 1910 is discussed and the little-known Dendrolimax leprosus Pollonera, 1906 is reported from Uganda. In Agriolimacidae, a species of Deroceras Rafinesque, 1820 is reported for the first time from southern Tanzania. The taxonomic attribution and significance of each discovery is discussed.
["endemism"]

Honduranura centraliamericana gen. n. et sp. n. from Central America (Collembola, Neanuridae, Neanurinae)
Honduranura gen. n. and the type species H. centraliamericana sp. n. are described and illustrated. The new genus shows the characters of Sensillanurini Cassagnau, 1983 tribe and is distinguished by the fusion of cephalic and abdominal tubercles: clypeal with antennofrontal and dorsointernal with dorsoexternal on head; presence of fused tubercles on each side of abdominal segment V. Most of the tubercles bear strong subcuticular reticulation. A key for the genera of the tribe Sensillanurini is provided.
["Honduras"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

New species of Indocloeon Müller-Liebenau from South-East Asia (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae)
One new species of Indocloeon Müller-Liebenau from Brunei, I. spathasetis sp. n., and one new species from Indonesia, I. timorense sp. n., are described and illustrated based on their larvae. The total number of known Indocloeon species increases from two to four and the generic attributes of the larvae are amended based on the examination of the new species. Results on the genetics of some species (COI) as well as comments on the distribution of I. indonesiae Kluge are also provided.

The avian community of the Karen Mogensen Reserve, a wealth of biodiversity within the poorly investigated and threatened environments of northwestern Costa Rica
Despite being characterized by some of the most threatened forest ecosystems of Mesoamerica, the Nicoya Peninsula is among the least known regions of neotropical Costa Rica in terms of its birdlife. Within this region, in the framework of an ongoing international cooperation program between Italy and Costa Rica, we had the opportunity to investigate the Karen Mogensen Reserve, a protected area distinguished by the presence of a variety of habitats, including tropical dry forest and moist forest. Species richness in the Reserve was relatively high compared with similar areas in northwestern Costa Rica. A series of surveys carried out over a 20-year period documented an avian community consisting of 207 species, of which 115 were breeding in the zone and another 14 were potentially breeding. We recorded five IUCN globally Vulnerable or Near-Threatened species, along with six species reported for the first time from the Nicoya Peninsula, each representing range extension of more than 100 km. Twenty-six species, mostly breeding in the area, are at their southernmost range borders, and are likely susceptible to global environmental alterations, such as the effects of climate change. Furthermore, our study revealed the presence of two species endemic to a restricted area of Central America and four subspecies endemic to Costa Rica, along with breeding populations of two species that are geographically isolated from the main ones. The present analysis led to the ecological characterization of the resident avian community, showing that 65% of the species are strictly associated with forested environments, and especially with the understory or middle tree level, hence more vulnerable to environmental change (climatic, anthropogenic, etc.) and susceptible to local extinction. These results underscore the importance of the Karen Mogensen Reserve for bird conservation within a vulnerable environmental context, and warrant the continuation of periodic bird surveys, taxonomic study of isolated populations or endemic taxa, and improvement of local conservation measures. The data collected will be an important tool for future studies aimed at evaluating the consequences of habitat fragmentation and to monitor the effects of climate change on the resident avifauna. We exhort the creation of programs that integrate bird monitoring, ecological research, conservation initiatives, and the involvement of the local communities, by promoting environmental education, capacity-building, and income generation. To this purpose, the Karen Mogensen Reserve may represent a convincing model and valuable example to apply in similar neotropical contexts.
["Aves"]
["Geological and Tectonic Studies in Latin America", "earthquake and tectonic studies"]

A new species of Echinolaophonte and record of E. armiger (Gurney, 1927) (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Laophontidae) from the Caribbean with a key to species
A new species of the harpacticoid copepod genus Echinolaophonte is described here from specimens obtained during a biological survey of Rodadero Bay, a coastal system in the Colombian Caribbean. This species has been previously recorded as E. armiger Gurney, 1927 in different geographic areas (Indian and Pacific Oceans). The Colombian specimens recognized as E. villabonae sp. n. and true E. armiger are deemed as distinct species based on differences in several features of which the shape of the rostrum and the dorsal spinous process on the prosome are among the most distinctive. These and other characters are shared by specimens recorded as E. armiger from Caroline Islands and Australia that are now incorporated to the new species. The finding of the true E. armiger, previously known only from Egypt, the Texan coast, Brazil, and possibly Bermuda, constitutes the first record of this species in the western Caribbean and a regional range extension. A key to the identification of the 13 known species of the genus is also provided.

A new species of Xylotrechus Chevrolat from China (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
Xylotrechus tristisfacies sp. n. (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae, Clytini) from China is described and illustrated. Characters distinguishing the new species from its close relatives, which possess an entirely black or dark brown pronotum with a black median stripe on the disc and dense yellowish to gray pubescent elytra with black or brown spots or bands, are presented.
["Guizhou"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of the millipede genus Glyphiulus Gervais, 1847 from Laos (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Cambalopsidae)
Two new species of Glyphiulus are described and illustrated from northern Laos. The epigean Glyphiulus subbedosae Likhitrakarn, Golovatch & Panha, sp. n. is the second member of the granulatus-group to be found in that country and it seems to be especially similar to G. bedosae Golovatch, Geoffroy, Mauriès & VandenSpiegel, 2007. However, it differs from the latter species by a row of several strong setae near the median marginal ridge on the paraprocts, combined with the gnathochilarium being considerably less densely setose on the caudal face, and the anterior gonopods showing a pair of smaller, apical, but larger lateral teeth on the coxosternal plate. Glyphiulus semicostulifer Likhitrakarn, Golovatch & Panha, sp. n. is the fourth member of the javanicus-group to be discovered in Laos, taken from a cave. It seems to be particularly similar to G. costulifer Golovatch, Geoffroy, Mauriès & VandenSpiegel, 2007, but is distinguished by the more sparsely alveolate background fine structure of the metazonae, coupled with the gnathochilarium being considerably less densely setose on the caudal face, much stronger paramedian prongs and 4-segmented telopodites on ♂ coxae 1, the slightly longer and more slender apicoparamedian sternal projections on the anterior gonopods, and the much longer flagella of the posterior gonopods. An identification key to and a distribution map of Glyphiulus species in Laos are also presented.

New species of Nipponoserica and Paraserica from China (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
The species of the genera Nipponoserica Nomura, 1973 and Paraserica Reitter, 1896 from China are revised. The following eight new species are described from China: Paraserica camillerii Ahrens, Fabrizi, & Liu, sp. n., P. mupuensis Ahrens, Fabrizi, & Liu, sp. n., P. wangi Ahrens, Fabrizi, & Liu, sp. n., Nipponoserica alloshanghaiensis Ahrens, Fabrizi, & Liu, sp. n., N. anjiensis Ahrens, Fabrizi, & Liu, sp. n., N. jiankouensis Ahrens, Fabrizi, & Liu, sp. n., N. henanensis Ahrens, Fabrizi, & Liu, sp. n., and N. sericanioides Ahrens, Fabrizi, & Liu, sp. n. A key to the species of the genera examined here and maps of the species distribution are provided. Habitus and male genitalia are illustrated.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

The geographical patterns of distribution of the genus Teuthraustes Simon, 1878 in Ecuador and description of three new species (Scorpiones, Chactidae)
Three new species of scorpions belonging to the genus Teuthraustes Simon, 1878 (Scorpiones: Chactidae) are described from the Amazonian and Pacific regions of Ecuador. The new descriptions raise to four the number of Teuthraustes species in Ecuadorian Amazonia and raise to two the number of species described from the Pacific region. The total number of species of Teuthraustes is now 27, including 15 in Ecuador. The geographical distribution of the genus in Ecuador is enlarged and its pattern of distribution in the country is also commented upon.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New Macrocheles species (Acari, Mesostigmata, Macrochelidae) associated with burying beetles (Silphidae, Nicrophorus) in North America
Burying beetles (Silphidae, Nicrophorus) are hosts to a broad diversity of mites (Acari), including several species of Macrocheles Latreille, 1829 (Mesostigmata, Macrochelidae). The macrochelid fauna associated with silphids primarily in North America was surveyed; in total, 1659 macrochelids representing seven species were collected from 112 Nicrophorus beetles representing nine host species. Three new species of Macrocheles were discovered during the survey and described as Macrocheles willowae sp. n., M. pratum sp. n., and M. kaiju sp. n. The barcode region of cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) was amplified from the three new described species, as well as M. nataliae and M. praedafimetorum, and analysed in a small phylogeny.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Revision of the species of Lytopylus from Area de Conservación Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Agathidinae)
Thirty two new species of Lytopylus (Agathidinae) are described with image plates for each species: Lytopylus alejandromasisi sp. n., Lytopylus alfredomainieri sp. n., Lytopylus anamariamongeae sp. n., Lytopylus angelagonzalezae sp. n., Lytopylus cesarmorai sp. n., Lytopylus eddysanchezi sp. n., Lytopylus eliethcantillanoae sp. n., Lytopylus ericchapmani sp. n., Lytopylus gahyunae sp. n., Lytopylus gisukae sp. n., Lytopylus guillermopereirai sp. n., Lytopylus gustavoindunii sp. n., Lytopylus hartmanguidoi sp. n., Lytopylus hernanbravoi sp. n., Lytopylus hokwoni sp. n., Lytopylus ivanniasandovalae sp. n., Lytopylus johanvalerioi sp. n., Lytopylus josecortesi sp. n., Lytopylus luisgaritai sp. n., Lytopylus mariamartachavarriae sp. n., Lytopylus miguelviquezi sp. n., Lytopylus motohasegawai sp. n., Lytopylus okchunae sp. n., Lytopylus pablocobbi sp. n., Lytopylus robertofernandezi sp. n., Lytopylus rogerblancoi sp. n., Lytopylus salvadorlopezi sp. n., Lytopylus sangyeoni sp. n., Lytopylus sarahmeierottoae sp. n., Lytopylus sergiobermudezi sp. n., Lytopylus sigifredomarini sp. n., and Lytopylus youngcheae sp. n. A dichotomous key and a link to an electronic, interactive key are included. All specimens were reared from Lepidoptera larvae collected in Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) and all are associated with ecological information including host caterpillar, collection date, eclosion date, caterpillar food plant, and locality. Neighbor-joining and maximum likelihood analyses of the barcode region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (COI DNA barcode) were conducted to aid in species delimitation.
["Costa Rica"]

Three new records of Nannosquillidae from Taiwan with notes on their ecology (Crustacea, Stomatopoda, Lysiosquilloidea)
The genus Pullosquilla Manning, 1978, including P. litoralis, P. thomassini, and P. pardus, has been found in Taiwan for the first time. All three species live in a subtidal sand flat north of the Bitou fishing port within the Kenting National Park, Taiwan. Adult specimens were examined, illustrated, and photographed. The habitat, which all three species share, is described. The implication of such closely related species sharing the same habitat is discussed.
["Kenting National Park"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Contributions to the knowledge of Chinese flea beetle fauna (II): Baoshanaltica new genus and Sinosphaera new genus (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
Two new genera: Baoshanaltica gen. n. and Sinosphaera gen. n., and two new species: Baoshanaltica minuta sp. n. and Sinosphaera aptera sp. n. from south-west China are described and illustrated. Baoshanaltica is compared to the allied moss-inhabiting genera Cangshanaltica Konstantinov et al. and Phaelota Jacoby, in addition to Minota Kutschera. Sinosphaera is compared to Sphaeroderma Stephens, Omeisphaera Chen & Zia, Jacobyana Maulik, and Kamala Maulik.
["Alticini"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Chrysomelinae species (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) and new biological data from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil1
Chrysomelinae is one of the largest subfamilies in Chrysomelidae, yet much basic information remains unknown for Neotropical species. The present study aims to compile the first regional list of Chrysomelinae for the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and assemble natural history traits obtained from our fieldwork from 2005 to 2010 in Serra dos Órgãos National Park, a mountainous area of Atlantic forest. The species list was compiled from data from field work, collections, and literature, and recorded a total of 100 species, belonging to 21 genera in one tribe (Chrysomelini) and three subtribes: Chrysolinina (91 species), Chrysomelina (eight species) and Entomoscelina (one species). Of these, 91 species are new records for the state. Serra dos Órgaõs National Park holds records of 43 species, with Platyphora being the most species-rich genus, and Solanaceae the most common host plant family. Some new records of reproductive mode (larviparous vs. oviparous) and larval behavior are also given. These Brazil Chrysomelinae species exhibited a clear seasonal pattern, with more species recorded in the hot and rainy season from October to January, and considerably fewer species from June to August, during the drier and colder months. The fraction of new records in comparison with published species and natural history information illustrates how little we know of Chrysomelinae in the state and in the country.
["Atlantic forest"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Insights on the genus Acronymolpus Samuelson with new synonymies and exclusion of Stethotes Baly from the fauna of New Caledonia (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Eumolpinae)
In this work, several taxonomic problems affecting the recently erected genus Acronymolpus Samuelson, 2015, endemic to New Caledonia, are addressed. Two of the three New Caledonian species described in Stethotes Baly are transferred to Acronymolpus and their priority is recognized over the names proposed in the revision of this genus. Moreover, different forms of Acronymolpus always found in sympatry, one reddish and larger, and the other black and smaller, were each given species status in that revision, but they are recognized here as the females and males, respectively, of the same species. The taxonomic summary of these discoveries is: (i) A. bertiae (Jolivet, Verma & Mille, 2007), comb. n. = A. meteorus Samuelson, 2015, syn. n., and A. turbo Samuelson, 2015, syn. n.; and (ii) A. jourdani (Jolivet, Verma & Mille, 2013), comb. n. = A. gressitti Samuelson, 2015, syn. n., and A. joliveti Samuelson, 2015, syn. n. New distribution data and the male genitalia and the spermatheca of the two valid species of Acronymolpus are described for the first time with reference to taxonomically important characters. Finally, the last New Caledonian species described in Stethotes is recognized here as a member of the endemic genus Taophila Heller: T. mandjeliae (Jolivet, Verma & Mille, 2010), comb. n.
["Eumolpinae"]

Galkinius Perreault, 2014 or Darwiniella (Anderson, 1992)? A new coral-associated barnacle sharing characteristics of these two genera in Pacific waters (Crustacea, Cirripedia, Thoracica, Pyrgomatidae)
A new species of coral associated barnacle (Balanomorpha: Pyrgomatidae) sharing morphological features of Darwiniella (Anderson, 1992) and Galkinius Perreault, 2014 is described. It has a fused shell and opercular plates, characteristic of Darwiniella. However, the morphology of the tergum and somatic body are closer to Galkinius. Sequence divergence of mitochondrial DNA 12S rDNA and COI reveals this new species clusters with the Galkinius clade. Therefore this new form is assigned to the genus Galkinius, as G. maculosus sp. n. Concomitantly the diagnosis of Galkinius is emended to include species with fused or four- plated shells and fused opercular plates. The new species is distinct from all Galkinius species in having a fused shell. It inhabits the corals Lobophyllia spp. and is distributed from the Dongsha Atoll in the South China Sea, Orchid Island of Taiwan in the Pacific Ocean, to Madang in Papua New Guinea waters.
["Barnacles"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

A taxonomic revision of the subfamily Tillinae Leach sensu lato (Coleoptera, Cleridae) in the New World
The subfamily Tillinae Leach is represented by 12 genera in the New World. In this study, eight of these genera are revised. A diagnosis and redescription of the species of Araeodontia Barr, Barrotillus Rifkind, Bogcia Barr, Cylidrus Latreille, Cymatoderella Barr, Lecontella Wolcott & Chapin, Monophylla Spinola, and Onychotillus Chapin are presented. Bogcia oaxacae Barr is designated as a junior synonym of Bogcia disjuncta Barr. One species, Cymatodera striatopunctata Chevrolat, is transferred to Lecontella. The following species are redescribed: Araeodontia isabellae (Wolcott), A. marginalis Barr, A. peninsularis (Schaeffer), Barrotillus kropotkini Rifkind, Bogcia disjuncta Barr, Cylidrus abdominalis Klug, Cymatoderella collaris (Spinola), C. morula Rifkind, C. patagoniae (Knull), Lecontella brunnea (Spinola), L. gnara Wolcott, L. striatopunctata (Chevrolat), Monophylla californica (Fall), M. pallipes Schaeffer, M. terminata (Say), Onychotillus vittatus Chapin, and O. cubana De Zayas. Transcriptions of the original descriptions of Araeodontia picipennis Barr, Bostrichoclerus bicornis Van Dyke and Monophylla cinctipennis (Chevrolat) are given. Cymatodera Gray, with approximately 130 described species, is excluded from this study due to the number of species involved. The genera Neocallotillus Burke and Callotillus Wolcott are also excluded here since these groups have been recently revised elsewhere. Collection data are provided for all species revised. Updated distribution maps are presented. Keys to New World genera and species are given and taxonomic characters of relevant importance are provided and discussed.

Description of Hypogastrura ellisi sp. n. with notes on H. tethyca Ellis and the trybomi group (Collembola, Hypogastruridae)
A new species, Hypogastrura ellisi, from Iran and Greece is described. It does not fit the definition of any known species group, but, as it has weakly differentiated blunt Ant. IV sensilla, one tenent hair on tibiotarsi, broad empodial lamellae, and dens with fine granulation and seven setae, it can be compared with some members of the trybomi and monticola groups and H. aterrima Yosii, 1972. It seems to be especially close to a representative of the trybomi group, H. tethyca Ellis, 1976. They differ mainly in the shape of apical papillae on the labrum, the size of anal spines, and the presence of setae m2 on Th. II. Notes on H. tethyca, the trybomi group, and a key to the species of the group are given.
["Azerbaijan"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Larval development to the first eighth zoeal stages in the deep-sea caridean shrimp Plesionika grandis Doflein, 1902 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Pandalidae)
The larvae of the deep-sea pandalid shrimp Plesionika grandis Doflein, 1902 were successfully reared in the laboratory for the first time. The larvae reached the eighth zoeal stage in 36 days, both of which are longest records for the genus. Early larval stages of P. grandis bear the general characters of pandalid shrimps and differ from the other two species of Plesionika with larval morphology known in the number of spines on the anteroventral margin of carapace, number of tubercles on antennule, endopod segmentation in antenna, and third maxilliped setation. Although members in Plesionika are often separated into species groups, members of the same species group do not necessarily have similar early larval morphology. Since the zoea VIII of P. grandis still lacks pleopods and fifth pereiopod, this shrimp likely has at least 12 zoeal stages and a larval development of 120 days.
["Deep-sea"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Larval description and chaetotaxic analysis of Dineutus sinuosipennis Laporte, 1840, with a key for the identification of larvae of the tribe Dineutini (Coleoptera, Gyrinidae)
The larvae of the Malagasy whirligig beetle Dineutus sinuosipennis Laporte, 1840, identified using DNA sequence data, are described and illustrated for the first time, including detailed morphometric and chaetotaxic analyses of selected structures and a description of larval habitat. Larvae of the genus Dineutus Macleay, 1825 are diagnosed, and a key to identify the genera of the tribe Dineutini is presented. Larvae of Dineutus exhibit the characters traditionally recognized as autapomorphies of the Gyrinidae: body less sclerotized, egg bursters located on the parietal, one additional sensorial plate on the third antennomere, cardo and lacinia well developed, prementum completely divided, abdominal tracheal gills, and four terminal hooks on the pygopod. They also share with larvae of the other Dineutini genera these putative synapomorphies: numerous minute pore-like additional structures on the ultimate maxillary and labial palpomeres, coxal primary seta CO12 inserted submedially, and trochanteral primary seta TR2 absent. Larvae of Dineutus can be distinguished from those of other known genera of Dineutini by the posterior margin of the lacinia not dentate, tracheal gills plumose, parietal seta PA5 inserted relatively far from setae PA7–9, mandibular pores MNb and MNc inserted relatively far from each other, and tarsal seta TA1 inserted submedially.
["Adephaga"]

A revision of the tribe Planitorini van Achterberg (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Euphorinae), with description of a new genus from Australia
The tribe Planitorini van Achterberg (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Euphorinae) is revised. One new genus Paramannokeraia gen. n. (type species: P. gibsoni sp. n.) and five new species from Australia are described and illustrated: Mannokeraia albipalpis van Achterberg, sp. n., M. nigrita van Achterberg, sp. n., M. punctata van Achterberg, sp. n., Paramannokeraia gibsoni van Achterberg & Quicke, sp. n. and P. juliae van Achterberg, sp. n. The tribe Mannokeraiini van Achterberg, 1995, is synonymized with the tribe Planitorini (syn. n.).
["Braconidae"]

New Mesopsyllus species from the Bohai Sea, China, re-evaluation of the validity of Vibriopsyllus Kornev & Chertoprud, 2008 and proposal of Sympodella gen. n. (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Canthocamptidae)
Two new species of the genus Mesopsyllus Por, 1960 (Canthocamptidae) are described from the Bohai Sea, eastern China. Mesopsyllus dimorphus sp. n. and M. spiniferus sp. n. differ from their congeners by the presence of two instead of three outer spines on P2–P3 exp-3. They can be differentiated from each other by (1) number of inner setae on P3–P4 enp-2; (2) anterior margin of antennulary segment 7 of male; (3) ornamentation of male abdomen; (4) sexual dimorphism on P2 endopod and P3–P4 exp-3; and (5) differences in length of setae on male P5. Some observations in the original description of M. atargatis Por, 1960 are reinterpreted and the type material of M. secundus (Wells, 1965) is re-examined. Comparison between the type species of Vibriopsyllus Kornev & Chertoprud, 2008 and the four known species of Mesopsyllus shows the former as a junior subjective synonym of the latter. Consequently, Vibriopsyllus curviseta Kornev & Chertoprud, 2008 is formally transferred to Mesopsyllus as M. curvisetus (Kornev & Chertoprud, 2008), comb. n. A key to species and an updated generic diagnosis of Mesopsyllus are presented. The taxonomic status of the genus Carolinicola Huys & Thistle, 1989 is re-evaluated. The characters of its type species, C. trisetosa (Coull, 1973), indicate that the latter (and – by inference – the genus Carolinicola) should remain in the Danielsseniinae. Carolinicola galapagoensis Mielke, 1997 is fixed as the type species of a new genus Sympodella gen. n. and placed in the Hemimesochrinae (Canthocamptidae) as the putative sistertaxon of Pusillargillus Huys & Thistle, 1989. The relationships and potential synonymy of the genera Pyrocletodes Coull, 1973, Perucamptus Huys & Thistle, 1989 and Isthmiocaris George & Schminke, 2003 are briefly discussed.
["Carolinicola"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Two new species of the genus Emertonia Wilson, 1932 from Korean waters (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Paramesochridae)
Two new species of the genus Emertonia were found from the west coast of Korea. The first new species, E. koreana sp. n., is closely related to E. acutifurcata. However, the new species is clearly distinguished by the presence of two modified pinnate setae on the P5 baseoendopodal lobe. All body somites of the new species except for the last two urosomites have strongly developed hyaline frills forming quadrilateral lappets. The second new species, E. simplex sp. n., superficially resembles E. mielkei in the structure of antennary exopod (with five setae), and the shape of P5. However, this new species differs from its congener mainly by having a caudal ramus 3.5 times as long as width, and P1 enp-2 with two claw-like setae. In addition, a key to the worldwide species of Emertonia is provided.

A remarkable new Helophorus species (Coleoptera, Helophoridae) from the Tibetan Plateau (China, Sichuan)
Helophorus dracomontanus sp. n. is described from the Tibetan Plateau near Kangding, Sichuan, China. It is a member of the subgenus Helophorus s. str. but the anterolateral part of the pronotum resembles subgenus Gephelophorus Sharp, 1915. The short metallic-black maxillary palpi with almost symmetrical apical segments are suggestive of subgenus Kyphohelophorus Kuwert, 1886, but the elytral flanks are narrower than the epipleurs, excluding the species from that subgenus. An adjusted key to Helophorus s. str. is given to identify the new species, as well as H. jaechi Angus, 1995 and H. kozlovi Zaitsev, 1908.
["Helophorus"]

Polyphyly of the traditional family Flabellinidae affects a major group of Nudibranchia: aeolidacean taxonomic reassessment with descriptions of several new families, genera, and species (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
The Flabellinidae, a heterogeneous assembly of supposedly plesiomorphic to very derived sea slug groups, have not yet been addressed by integrative studies. Here novel material of rarely seen Arctic taxa as well as North Atlantic, North and South Pacific, and tropical Indo-West Pacific flabellinid species is investigated morpho-anatomically and with multi-locus markers (partial COI, 16S rDNA, 28S rDNA and H3) which were generated and analysed in a comprehensive aeolid taxon sampling. It was found that the current family Flabellinidae is polyphyletic and its phylogeny and taxonomic patterns cannot be understood without considering members from all the Aeolidacean families and, based on a robust phylogenetic hypothesis, morpho-anatomical evolution of aeolids is more complex than suspected in earlier works and requires reclassification of the taxon. Morphological diversity of Flabellinidae is corroborated by molecular divergence rates and supports establishing three new families (Apataidaefam. n., Flabellinopsidaefam. n., Samlidaefam. n.), 16 new genera, 13 new species, and two new subspecies among the former Flabellinidae. Two families, namely Coryphellidae and Paracoryphellidae, are restored and traditional Flabellinidae is considerably restricted. The distinctness of the recently described family Unidentiidae is confirmed by both morphological and molecular data. Several species complexes among all ex-“Flabellinidae” lineages are recognised using both morphological and molecular data. The present study shows that Facelinidae and Aeolidiidae, together with traditional “Tergipedidae”, deeply divide traditional “Flabellinidae.” Diagnoses for all aeolidacean families are therefore provided and additionally two new non-flabellinid families (Abronicidaefam. n. and Murmaniidaefam. n.) within traditional tergipedids are established to accommodate molecular and morphological disparity. To address relationships and disparity, we propose a new family system for aeolids. Here the aeolidacean species are classified into at least 102 genera and 24 families. Operational rules for integration of morphological and molecular data for taxonomy are suggested.
["Integration of morphological and molecular data"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

A new large oregoniid spider crab of the genus Pleistacantha Miers, 1879, from the Bay of Bengal, India (Crustacea, Brachyura, Majoidea)
A new species of deep-water oregoniid spider crab of the genus Pleistacantha Miers, 1879, is described from the Indian Ocean. The species is distinct in possessing a prominently inflated carapace in which the median parts of the branchial regions almost meet. It can also be distinguished from its closest congeners, P. moseleyi (Miers, 1885), P. pungens (Wood-Mason, in Wood-Mason and Alcock 1891), and P. ori Ahyong & Ng, 2007, in its more elongate and less spinose chelipeds and ambulatory legs, shorter third maxilliped, trapezoidal male pleon and a male first gonopod which is relatively stout with a short subdistal dorsal papilla.
["deep-water"]

A new species of Zeraikia Gil-Santana & Costa with taxonomic notes on Zeraikia novafriburguensis Gil-Santana & Costa (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Peiratinae)
Zeraikia zeraikae sp. n. is described from the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, based on one male and one female specimens. Some taxonomic notes on Zeraikia Gil-Santana & Costa, 2003 and Zeraikia novafriburguensis Gil-Santana & Costa, 2003 are provided. Detailed descriptions and several figures of the male genitalia of both species are furnished. A key for the species of Zeraikia is presented.
["corsairs"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Three new species of the Stenus cirrus group from Guizhou, southwest China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
Three new Stenus species of the cirrus group collected from Guizhou Province, southwest China, are described: S. dashaheensis sp. n., S. zhangyuqingi sp. n., and S. liuyixiaoi sp. n. The diagnostic characters of the new species are illustrated, and a key to species of the group from Guizhou Province is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Half-jumping plant lice – a taxonomic revision of the distinctive psyllid genus Togepsylla Kuwayama with a reassessment of morphology (Hemiptera, Psylloidea)
Togepsyllinae is a distinctive group within Psylloidea, with its systematic status treated variously by different authors. Of the only two known genera, Togepsylla is better known and distributed in temperate and tropical East Asia. In this study, the taxonomy and morphology of Togepsylla was studied in detail. Keys to adults and fifth instar immatures of the genus are provided. Togepsylla glutinosae sp. n. is described, and T. matsumurana, T. takahashii, and T. tibetana are redescribed. Syncoptozus is compared with Togepsylla for differences in morphology. Modern psyllids have evolved their jumping hind legs via the elongation of the dorsal edge of coxa, the broadening of coxal wall, the thickening of meron, the backward twisting of the plane of trochanter, femur, and tibia, and the enlargement of trochanteral tendon. However, in Togepsylla, this modification has progressed halfway. The metapleuron of Togepsylla is arranged in a different way than other psyllids. The pleural sulcus is short, and the metepisternum and trochantin are not divided. Wax-secreting fields on abdominal sternites, resembling those of whiteflies, are found on all Togepsylla species, and described for the first time. Other distinctive characters of the genus are also revealed, e.g. frons completely fused with gena, a pair of extra sclerites present behind the base of thoracic furca, one-segmented aedeagus, and absence of a flag lobe on valvula dorsalis of ovipositor. Based on various similarities in morphology, Togepsyllinae may have a close relationship with Aphalaridae-Rhinocolinae and is possibly related to Homotomidae, Liviidae-Liviinae and Atmetocranium (Calophyidae). All the distinctive characters of Togepsyllinae suggest that the current placement of the group is doubtful, and the phylogeny of Aphalaridae needs to be resolved.
["Aphalaridae"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

New records of helminths of Sceloporus pyrocephalus Cope (Squamata, Phrynosomatidae) from Guerrero and Michoacán, Mexico, with the description of a new species of Thubunaea Seurat, 1914 (Nematoda, Physalopteridae)
A total of 61 specimens of the Red-headed Spiny Lizard Sceloporus pyrocephalus Cope (Phrynosomatidae) collected during the breeding season (June/July 2003, 2004 and 2005) from Western Mexico were examined for helminths. The morphological characterization of the helminths found was made through light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Nine taxa of helminths were identified, two cestodes: Mesocestoides sp. and Oochoristica sp., and seven nematodes: Parapharyngodon ayotzinapaensis Garduño-Montes de Oca, Mata-López & León-Règagnon, 2016, Parapharyngodon tikuinii Garduño-Montes de Oca, Mata-López & León-Règagnon, 2016, Parapharyngodon sp., Physalopterinae gen. sp., Skrjabinoptera scelopori Caballero-Rodríguez, 1971, Strongyluris similis Caballero, 1938 and a new species of Thubunaea Seurat, 1914. Larvae of Mesocestoides sp. and Physalopterinae gen. sp. were found in the body cavity and digestive tract, respectively. Excluding the species of Parapharyngodon Chatterji, 1933, S. pyrocephalus is recorded for the first time as a host of the remaining seven taxa of helminths. Additionally, Thubunaealeonregagnonae sp. n. is described and illustrated as a new nematode species, parasite of S. pyrocephalus from Mexico. This new species can be differentiated from the majority of its congeners by the absence of spicules, the particular pattern of caudal papillae in males and the small ratio of oesophagus length:male total body length (0.1–0.16).
["Anoplocephalidae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Helminth infection and control"]

Variation in colour markings of an unusual new Asprothrips species from China (Thysanoptera, Thripidae)
The second species of the genus Asprothrips with a bicoloured body, A. atermaculosus sp. n., is described and illustrated from China. This is characterised by considerable intra-population variation in the number and size of brown markings on the abdominal tergites. Asprothrips fuscipennis Kudô, previously described from Japan, is newly recorded in China.
["Asprothrips"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of the Marphysa sanguinea complex from French waters (Bay of Biscay, NE Atlantic) (Annelida, Eunicidae)
A new species of Eunicidae, Marphysa victori sp. n., has been identified from Arcachon Bay, Bay of Biscay, NE Atlantic. This new species, belonging to the sanguinea complex, is characterised by branchiae with long filaments from chaetigers 26–34, the presence of four types of pectinate chaetae with first ones present from chaetiger 2, a large number of both pectinate chaetae and compound spinigers, and the pygidium with only one pair of pygidial cirri. An identification key for European species of the genus Marphysa is provided.
["Bait worms"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A new species of the carpenter bee genus Xylocopa from the Sarawat Mountains in southwestern Saudi Arabia (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
A new species of the carpenter bee genus Xylocopa Latreille (Xylocopinae: Xylocopini) is described and figured from two localities in southern Saudi Arabia. Xylocopa (Koptortosoma) sarawatica Engel, sp. n. is a relatively small species similar to the widespread X. pubescens Spinola, but differs in the extent of maculation in males, setal coloration of both sexes, and male terminalia. A revised key to the species of Xylocopa in Saudi Arabia is provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Integrative overview of the herpetofauna from Serra da Mocidade, a granitic mountain range in northern Brazil
The Brazilian mountain ranges from the Guiana Shield highlands are largely unexplored, with an understudied herpetofauna. Here the amphibian and reptile species diversity of the remote Serra da Mocidade mountain range, located in extreme northern Brazil, is reported upon, and biogeographical affinities and taxonomic highlights are discussed. A 22-days expedition to this mountain range was undertaken during which specimens were sampled at four distinct altitudinal levels (600, 960, 1,060 and 1,365 m above sea level) using six complementary methods. Specimens were identified through an integrated approach that considered morphological, bioacoustical, and molecular analyses. Fifty-one species (23 amphibians and 28 reptiles) were found, a comparable richness to other mountain ranges in the region. The recorded assemblage showed a mixed compositional influence from assemblages typical of other mountain ranges and lowland forest habitats in the region. Most of the taxa occupying the Serra da Mocidade mountain range are typical of the Guiana Shield or widely distributed in the Amazon. Extensions of known distribution ranges and candidate undescribed taxa are also recorded. This is the first herpetofaunal expedition that accessed the higher altitudinal levels of this mountain range, contributing to the basic knowledge of these groups in remote areas.

Relocation of Dodecaseta McCammon & Stull, 1978 (Annelida, Capitellidae) in Notodasus Fauchald, 1972
The capitellid polychaete genus Dodecaseta McCammon & Stull, 1978 is relocated in Notodasus Fauchald, 1972. Two species are redescribed based on examination of type material and three new combinations are proposed: Notodasus oraria (McCammon & Stull, 1978), N. eibyejacobseni (Green, 2002). N. fauchaldi (Green, 2002). N. kristiani (García-Garza et al., 2009), is synonymized under N. oraria. Some comments on Dasybranchus lumbricoides Grube, 1878 are included.
["Polychaeta"]

A new species of Leodice from Korean waters (Annelida, Polychaeta, Eunicidae)
A new eunicid species, Leodice duplexa sp. n., from intertidal and subtidal habitats in the eastern coast of South Korea is described. The new species is assigned to the C-2 group, and is similar to Leodice antennata, the type species of the genus, in having the following combination of characteristics: moniliform antennae and palps, bidentate compound falcigers, articulated peristomial and notopodial cirri, pectinate branchiae showing bimodal distribution of branchial filaments, and yellow aciculae. However, L. duplexa sp. n. is readily distinguished from L. antennata by the following features: the aciculae are 2–4 in number, with blunt or pointed tips and hammer-headed or bifid tips, and the subacicular hooks are paired in some chaetigers. A detailed description and illustrations are provided for the new species. The validity of the new species is also supported by a genetic comparison using sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). A revised key to known Leodice species is provided with a comparison of their morphological characteristics.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Revision of the genus Ptomaphagus Hellwig from eastern Asia (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae)
The species belonging to the genus Ptomaphagus Hellwig, 1795 (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae, Ptomaphagini) from eastern Asia are assigned to three species groups. Group yasutoshii has a single species: P. (s. str.) yasutoshii Nishikawa, 1993 from Taiwan, China. Group nepalensis with three species: P. (s. str.) nepalensis Perreau, 1988 from Nepal and P. (s. str.) masumotoi Nishikawa, 2011 from Thailand are redescribed, and P. (s. str.) piccoloi Wang, Růžička, Nishikawa, Perreau & Hayashi, 2016 is recorded for the first time from China (Zhejiang). Group sibiricus with seven species, including two newly described Chinese ones P. (s. str.) funiusp. n. from Henan, and P. (s. str.) habasp. n. from Yunnan, and five known species: P. (s. str.) chenggongi Wang, Nishikawa, Perreau, Růžička & Hayashi, 2016, P. (s. str.) hayashii Wang, Růžička, Perreau, Nishikawa & Park, 2016, P. (s. str.) kuntzeni Sokolowski, 1957 (distribution records from Myanmar excluded), P. (s. str.) sibiricus Jeannel, 1934 and P. (s. str.) tingtingtae Wang, Nishikawa, Perreau, Růžička & Hayashi, 2016. Specimens of other undescribed species of the group sibiricus are also recorded, revealing a high diversity of this genus in eastern Asia, especially in central and north Sichuan, China, which essentially remains to be investigated. Relevant morphological characters of the examined species are illustrated with colour plates, and their known distributions are mapped. A key to species of Ptomaphagus from eastern Asia is provided.
["Cholevinae"]

Ichthyofauna of Ceará-Mirim River basin, Rio Grande do Norte State, northeastern Brazil
Ichthyological studies in coastal basins of the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga ecoregion were first conducted in the early 20th century, including collections from the Ceará-Mirim River basin, in northeastern Brazil. Besides a few systematics and ecological studies, the knowledge on fishes from this watershed is still considered partial and restricted to the freshwater portion. Thus, the objective of this paper was to conduct a comprehensive ichthyological survey of the entire Ceará-Mirim River basin, from the headwaters to the estuarine area. Fish surveys were conducted from 2011 to 2016 using varied fishing gear, resulting in the record of 63 native species (24 freshwater, 15 estuarine, and 24 marine species) and two introduced species. Four species are putatively endemic to the ecoregion, and 48 consist of new records for the basin. According to the Brazilian’s threatened fish list, three species are currently classified as ‘vulnerable’ (Megalops atlanticus, Hippocampus reidi and Mycteroperca bonaci), four as ‘near threatened’ (Kryptolebias hermaphroditus, Dormitator maculatus, Lutjanus sygnagris and L. jocu) and three as ‘data deficient’ (Cheirodon jaguaribensis, Mugil curema and Sphoeroides testudineus). The Ceará-Mirim River basin does not have any protected areas and has been suffering multiple anthropogenic impacts, however the "Centro Tecnológico de Aquicultura" (Aquaculture Technological Center) of the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (CTA/UFRN) at the lower portion of the basin may help in the conservation of the estuarine and estuarine fish species.
["Mid-Northeastern Caatinga Ecoregion"]

Descriptions of two new species and one new subspecies from the Exocelina okbapensis-group, and notes on the E. aipo-group (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Two new species and one new subspecies of Exocelina Broun, 1886 from New Guinea are described: E. okbapensis Shaverdo & Balke, sp. n., E. okbapensis hajeki Shaverdo & Balke, ssp. n., and E. may Shaverdo & Balke, sp. n. These and two already described species are assigned to the E. okbapensis-group, which is morphologically (based on setation of the paramere) and phylogenetically close to the E. aipo-group. On the latter, morphological and taxonomic notes are provided. An identification key to all known species of the groups is presented, and important diagnostic characters are illustrated. Data on the species distributions are mapped and show that the species occur only in the central mountain part of the island restricted by Wamena in the west and Sandaun Province in the east.
["Exocelina aipo-group"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Checklist of the Clubiona japonica-group spiders, with the description of a new species from China (Araneae, Clubionidae)
In the present paper, a worldwide checklist of Clubiona japonica-group spiders is provided based on published literature and authors’ collections. A new japonica-group species, Clubiona grucollaris sp. n. (♀♂) from Guizhou Province and Hainan Island of China is diagnosed, described, and illustrated. A distribution map of this species is given.
["catalogue"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Hyboptera Chaudoir, 1872 of the Cryptobatida group of subtribe Agrina: A taxonomic revision with notes on their ways of life (Insecta, Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini)
Hyboptera Chaudoir, 1872 of the Cryptobatida group of subtribe Agrina, Lebiini, living in the Neotropics and southernmost Nearctic realms are diagnosed, described, and illustrated, and new species are assigned to two inclusive species groups. Occurrences of species range from Texas, USA, to the state of Santa Caterina in Brazil. Seven new species of Hyboptera are described: Hyboptera biolat Erwin & Henry, sp. n.; Type locality – Perú, Madre de Dios, Manu Reserved Zone, Río Manu, BIOLAT Biological Station, Pakitza; Hyboptera vestiverdis Henry & Erwin, sp. n.; Type locality – Perú, Madre de Dios, Manu Reserved Zone, Río Manu, BIOLAT Biological Station, Pakitza; Hyboptera lucida Henry & Erwin, sp. n.; Type locality – French Guiana, Cayenne, Commune de Roura, Montagne des Chevaux; Hyboptera scheelea Erwin & Henry, sp. n.; Type locality – Perú, Loreto, Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, Río Samiria (South Branch), Camp Terry; Hyboptera shasta Erwin, sp. n.; Type locality – Brazil, Amazonas, north of Manaus on Amazonas 010 at Km 26, Reserva Ducke; Hyboptera tepui Erwin & Henry, sp. n.; Type locality – Venezuela, Amazonas, Cerro de la Neblina, Río Baria Basecamp; Hyboptera tiputini Erwin & Henry, sp. n.; Type locality – Ecuador, Orellana, Yasuni National Park (edge), 95.43 km E (heading 101.46°) Coca, Tiputini Biodiversity Station. A revised identification key is provided to the genera of the Cryptobatida group and another to the species of HybopteraChaudoir and distributional data are provided for all known species of the latter. Adults of these species often occur in the canopy of many tropical tree species and records are reported where known. In addition, adults are found under the webbing of Psocoptera and in fleshy anther rings of Bombacaceae (Pseudobombax septenatum (Jacq.) Dugand), on the rain forest floor in the dry season. Larval and pupal stages of one species from Panamá are known from under bark of living fence posts; however, these immature stages are not treated in the current paper.
["Neotropics"]

The little-known genus Dahliphora Schmitz, 1923 of China (Diptera, Phoridae)
The genus Dahliphora Schmitz, 1923 is recorded from China for the first time. Three Dahliphora species are reported, namely D. sigmoides, D. zaitzevi, and a new species here described, D. chaetocauda sp. n. Some new morphological data are reviewed and illustrated for the first time, and an identification key to species present in China is presented.
["Dahliphora chaetocauda"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

New species of Metachela Coquillett (Diptera, Empididae) from the Atlantic Forest, Brazil and a key to the Neotropical species
Two new species of Metachela Coquillett from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, M. danitakiyae sp. n. from Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais and M. spinulosa sp. n. from Minas Gerais, are described and illustrated. A key to the Neotropical species is provided.
["Empidoidea"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

The cockroaches of Balta Tepper from China, with the description of four new species (Blattodea, Ectobiidae, Pseudophyllodromiinae)
Four new species of cockroach genus Balta Tepper, 1893 are described and illustrated: B. crena sp. n., B. maculata sp. n., B. tangi sp. n., and B. yaoi sp. n. Balta picea (Bey-Bienko, 1958) is now regarded as a new synonym of Balta hwangorum (Bey-Bienko, 1958), which is redescribed and illustrated. Two new combinations are proposed: B. nodigera (Bey-Bienko, 1958), comb. n. and B. valida (Bey-Bienko, 1958), comb. n., and both species are redescribed and illustrated. A key to all species from China is provided.
["Dictyoptera"]

Four new species of the primitively segmented spider genus Qiongthela from Hainan island, China (Mesothelae, Liphistiidae)
Four species of the primitively segmented spider genus Qiongthela Xu & Kuntner, 2015 collected from Hainan Island, China are diagnosed and described as new to science based on their genital morphology: Q. bawang sp. n. (♀), Q. jianfeng sp. n. (♂♀), Q. yini sp. n. (♀), Q. wuzhi sp. n. (♂♀). Together with the type species of Qiongthela, Q. baishensis Xu, 2015, five species are found and described from Hainan, China, and seven species are now known in the genus.

A new species of Helionothrips from China (Thysanoptera, Panchaetothripinae)
Helionothrips lushanensis sp. n. is described from China. The new species is characterised by the head entirely dark brown, antennal segments I–VIII almost uniformly yellowish brown and III–IV strongly vasiform, metascutellum without produced posterior margins, and male has no pore plate on the abdominal sternites.
["Helionothrips"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Agricultural pest management studies"]

A new species of the genus Teloganopsis with setaceous mouthparts and forelegs from southern China (Ephemeroptera, Ephemerellidae)
The nymph and reared male and female of a new ephemerellid species, which was collected from southern China and named Teloganopsis setosa Zhou, sp. n., are described. The nymph is unique because of its long and dense setae on labrum, mandibles, maxillae, labium, and forelegs as well as the elongated segments II of labial palpi and expanded paraglossae. The male can be differentiated from close relatives by its larger penis lobes with dorsolateral projections, and the more pigmented tergum IV and caudal filaments. The nymph described in this paper represents a new adaptive and ecological type in the family Ephemerellidae.
["evolution"]

Revision of the West Palaearctic Polistes Latreille, with the descriptions of two species – an integrative approach using morphology and DNA barcodes (Hymenoptera, Vespidae)
The genus Polistes is revised for the West Palaearctic region based on morphology and DNA barcodes. The revision includes all known West Palaearctic species, raising the number of species in Europe to 14 and to 17 for the West Palaearctic realm. DNA barcodes were recovered from 15 species, 14 of which belong to the subgenus Polistes, and one, P. wattii, to the subgenus Gyrostoma. An integrative taxonomic approach combining morphology and molecular data (DNA barcoding) was employed to resolve longstanding taxonomic problems in this group. Two species, P. austroccidentalis van Achterberg & Neumeyer, sp. n. (= P. semenowi auctt.) from W and SW Europe and P. maroccanus Schmid-Egger, sp. n. from Morocco are described as new. Polistes bucharensis Erichson, 1849, and P. foederatus Kohl, 1898, were restored from synonymy. The following new synonyms are proposed: P. sulcifer Zimmermann, 1930, and Pseudopolistes sulcifer var. similator Zirngiebl, 1955, under P. semenowi Morawitz, 1889, syn. n.; Polistes iranus Guiglia, 1976, Polistes gallica var. ornata Weyrauch, 1938 and Polistes gallicus muchei Gusenleitner, 1976, under P. bucharensis Erichson, 1849, syn. n.; Polistes omissus var. ordubadensis Zirngiebl, 1955, and P. hellenicus Arens, 2011, under Polistes mongolicus du Buysson, 1911, syn. n. An illustrated key includes all species and additionally three species from the subgenera Aphanilopterus Meunier, 1888 and Gyrostoma Kirby, 1828 (including a Nearctic species recently introduced to Spain and two species occurring in Egypt, the Arabian Peninsula, and SW Asia). A phylogenetic analysis using Bayesian inference provides insights into phylogenetic relationships within the genus Polistes.
["Taxonomic revision"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Monogenea of fishes from the lagoon flats of Palmyra Atoll in the Central Pacific
A survey of the monogeneans of fishes from the lagoon flats of Palmyra Atoll detected 16 species already reported from the Indo-West Pacific faunal region. A total of 653 individual fish from 44 species were collected from the sand flats bordering the lagoon of the atoll. Eighteen species of fish were infected with monogeneans. The monogenean species recovered were: Benedenia hawaiiensis on Acanthurus xanthopterus, Chaetodon auriga, Chaetodon lunula, Mulloidichthys flavolineatus, Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus and Rhinecanthus aculeatus; Ancyrocephalus ornatus on Arothron hispidus; Euryhaliotrema annulocirrus on Chaetodon auriga and Chaetodon lunula; Euryhaliotrema chrysotaeniae on Lutjanus fulvus; Euryhaliotrema grandis on Chaetodon auriga and Chaetodon lunula; Haliotrema acanthuri on Acanthurus triostegus; Haliotrema aurigae on Chaetodon auriga and Chaetodon lunula; Haliotrema dempsteri on Acanthurus xanthopterus; Haliotrema minutospirale on Mulloidichthys flavolineatus; Haliotrematoides patellacirrus on Lutjanus monostigma; Neohaliotrema bombini on Abudefduf septemfasciatus and Abudefduf sordidus; Acleotrema girellae and Acleotrema parastromatei on Kyphosus cinerascens; Cemocotylella elongata on Caranx ignobilis, Caranx melampygus and Caranx papuensis; Metamicrocotyla macracantha on Crenimugil crenilabris; and Pseudopterinotrema albulaeon Albula glossodonta. All these monogenean–host combinations represent new geographical records. The monogenean species composition of the Palmyra Atoll is similar to that of the Hawaiian Islands. However, the number of species recovered was lower compared with other localities within the Indo-West Pacific, perhaps due to the geographical isolation of Palmyra Atoll.
["Monogenea"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

A new species of Phrynopus (Amphibia, Anura, Craugastoridae) from upper montane forests and high Andean grasslands of the Pui Pui Protected Forest in central Peru
We describe a new species of Phrynopus from the upper montane forests and high Andean grasslands (puna) of the Pui Pui Protected Forest and its close surroundings (Región Junín, central Peru) and compare it morphologically and genetically with other species of Phrynopus. Phrynopus inti sp. n. is known from four localities outside and two localities inside the Pui Pui Protected Forest between 3350 and 3890 m a.s.l. Studied specimens of the new species are characterized by a snout-vent length of 27.2–35.2 mm in males (n = 6), and 40.4 mm in a single female, by having the skin on dorsum and flanks smooth with scattered tubercles, venter smooth, by lacking a tympanum, and males without vocal slits and nuptial pads. In life, the dorsum is pale grayish brown with or without dark brown blotches, or dorsum blackish brown with small yellow flecks, throat, chest and venter are pale grayish brown with salmon mottling, groin is pale grayish brown with salmon colored flecks, and the iris is golden orange with fine dark brown reticulations. The new species is morphologically most similar to Phrynopus kauneorum and P. juninensis. For the latter we describe the coloration in life for a specimen obtained at the type locality. A molecular phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences inferred that the new species is most closely related to Phrynopus kauneorum, P. miroslawae, P. tautzorum, and an undescribed species distributed at high elevation in Región Pasco, central Peru.

Review of Perdita subgenus Procockerellia Timberlake (Hymenoptera, Andrenidae) and the first Perdita gynandromorph
A systematic study of Perdita subgenus Procockerellia Timberlake and the related subgenus Allomacrotera Timberlake results in the synonymy of the latter with the former, and two specific synonymies: Perdita (Hexaperdita) glamis Timberlake is a junior synonym of Perdita (Procockerellia) stephanomeriae Timberlake, while Perdita (Procockerellia) brachyglossa Timberlake is a junior synonym of Perdita (Cockerellia) imbellis Timberlake. Perdita (Procockerellia) moldenkei Timberlake is moved to subgenus Cockerellia Ashmead. A revised subgeneric diagnosis and key to the three included species are provided. Diagnoses of species are updated with novel characters; distributions and biological data are expanded. A gynandromorph of P. (Procockerellia) moabensis Timberlake, the first known in the genus Perdita, is reported.

Seahorses of the Hippocampus coronatus complex: taxonomic revision, and description of Hippocampus haema, a new species from Korea and Japan (Teleostei, Syngnathidae)
Morphological and molecular analyses were conducted on 182 specimens belonging to the Hippocampus coronatus complex (H. coronatus sensu lato), collected in Korea and Japan 1933–2015, in order to clarify the taxonomic status of the species within this complex. Three species are recognized based on the shape of the coronet, the number of trunk rings (TrR) and tail rings (TaR), and presence or absence of a wing-tip spine (WS) at the dorsal fin base. Hippocampus coronatus Temminck & Schlegel, 1850 (H. coronatus sensu stricto), is diagnosed by 10 TrR, 37–40 TaR, an extremely high coronet (55.7–79.0 % head length) with four tips on the corona flat (CoT), and one WS. Hippocampus sindonis Jordan & Snyder, 1901 is diagnosed by 10 TrR, 35–38 TaR, a moderately high coronet (36.3–55.4 % HL) with five CoT, and no WS. A new species, H. haema is described on the basis of 140 specimens, characterized by 10 TrR, 35–38 TaR, a moderately high coronet (34.1–54.9 % head length) with four CoT, and two WS. Hippocampus haema is only known from the Korea Strait, western Kyushu, and East/Japan Sea. Recognition of the three species is supported by differences in mitochondrial DNA fragments (cytochrome b, 16S rRNA, and 12S rRNA).
["Genetic distance"]
["Aquatic life and conservation", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

At home at least: the taxonomic position of some north African Xerocrassa species (Pulmonata, Geomitridae)
In order to clarify the systematic position of Helix latastei Letourneux in Letourneux & Bourguignat, 1887, and Helix latasteopsis Letourneux & Bourguignat, 1887, a comprehensive approach using morphological and molecular methods is presented. The investigation of the genital organs of both species showed that they belong to the genus Xerocrassa Monterosato, 1892 with two very small dart sacs and a few tubiform glandulae mucosae. In our phylogenetic analysis using the mitochondrial markers COI, 16S and the nuclear cluster 5.8-ITS2-28S, the results of the anatomical research were confirmed. Thus, the genus Ereminella Pallary, 1919, which is based on H. latastei, becomes a junior synonym of Xerocrassa. A review of the genus-level taxa Xerobarcana Brandt, 1959, and Xeroregima Brandt, 1959, showed that these should also be considered as synonyms of Xerocrassa. A third species, Helix lacertara Bourguignat, 1863 from Algeria was found to be closely related to X. latastei based on its shell morphology. A map showing the distribution of the three species treated is supplied.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Type material of Acanthocephala, Nematoda and other non-helminths phyla (Cnidaria, Annelida, and Arthropoda) housed in the Helminthological Collection of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute/ FIOCRUZ (CHIOC), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 1979 to 2016
The third part of the catalogue of type material in the Helminthological Collection of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute/FIOCRUZ (CHIOC), comprising types deposited between 1979 and 2016, is presented to complement the first list of all types that was published in 1979. This part encompasses Acanthocephala, Nematoda and the other non-helminth phyla Cnidaria, Annelida, and Arthropoda. Platyhelminthes was covered in the first (Monogenoidea) and second (RhabditophoraTrematoda and Cestoda) parts of the catalogue published in September 2016 and March 2017, respectively. The present catalogue comprises type material for 116 species distributed across five phyla, nine classes, 50 families, and 80 genera. Specific names are listed systematically, followed by type host, infection site, type locality, and specimens with their collection numbers and references. Species classification and nomenclature are updated.
["Acanthocephalans"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Parasitic infections in humans and animals"]

Salangathelphusa peractio, a new species of lowland freshwater crab from Pulau Langkawi, Peninsular Malaysia (Crustacea, Brachyura, Gecarcinucidae)
A new species of lowland freshwater crab of the family Gecarcinucidae, Salangathelphusa peractio, is described from Langkawi, an island off the northwestern coast of peninsular Malaysia. Salangathelphusa peractio sp. n. can be separated from S. brevicarinata (Hilgendorf, 1882) in having a proportionately broader external orbital tooth, a distinctly concave posterolateral margin, and the terminal segment of the male first gonopod is not distinctly bent laterally outwards; and from S. anophrys (Kemp, 1923) by its more quadrate carapace and the terminal segment of the male first gonopod possessing a relatively longer and less curved distal part. This is sixth wholly freshwater brachyuran species known from the island.
["Gecarcinucidae"]

Five new species of the genus Euplocania Enderlein (Psocodea, ‘Psocoptera’, Psocomorpha, Ptiloneuridae) from Colombia
Five new species of Euplocania from Colombia belonging in four species groups are here described and illustrated. They increase to 22 the number of species described in the genus, thirteen of which are endemic to Colombia, with one species shared with Brazil and Peru. Three new species groups of Euplocania are here diagnosed. A key to the identification of males of Colombian Euplocania is included.
["Neotropics"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The larva of Adicella syriaca Ulmer 1907, including a key to the European larvae of Adicella McLachlan, 1877 (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae)
Adicella syriaca is a leptocerid caddisfly distributed throughout the Balkan Peninsula, the Carpathians, the Hungarian Lowlands, the Pontic Province, and the Caucasus. This paper describes the previously unknown larva of this species, based on material from the Greek island of Corfu. Information on the morphology of the fifth larval instar is given, and the most important diagnostic features are illustrated. A key to the known larvae of the European species of Adicella McLachlan, 1877 is provided. In the context of existing identification keys, the larva of Adicella syriaca Ulmer, 1907 keys together with Adicella cremisa Malicky, 1972, but the species pair can be easily separated by the number of setae on the pro- and mesonotum, and setation patterns on abdominal dorsum IX.

The dipteran family Celyphidae in the New World, with discussion of and key to world genera (Insecta, Diptera)
The family Celyphidae (Diptera, Lauxanioidea) is verified as part of the New World fauna, with a second specimen discovered of a species described from French Guiana in 1844 by P.J.M. Macquart. As this species possesses characteristics that clearly suggest a separate lineage from the Old World celyphids, a new genus is proposed, Atopocelyphus gen. n., with the type species, Celyphus ruficollis Macquart, in the new combination Atopocelyphus ruficollis (Macquart), comb. n. A key to world genera of Celyphidae is presented, along with discussion of generic concepts. Chamaecelyphus Frey is synonymized under Spaniocelyphus Hendel, syn. n., resulting in the following 10 new combinations: Spaniocelyphus africanus (Walker), comb. n.; S. dichrous (Bezzi), comb. n.; S. gutta (Speiser), comb. n.; S. halticinus (Frey), comb. n.; S. kalongensis (Vanschuytbroek), comb. n.; S. ruwenzoriensis (Vanschuytbroek), comb. n.; S. straeleni (Vanschuytbroek), comb. n.; S. upembaensis (Vanschuytbroek), comb. n.; S. violaceus (Vanschuytbroek), comb. n.; S. vrydaghi (Vanschuytbroek), comb. n. The subgenera of Celyphus Dalman are elevated to genus rank, as Paracelyphus Bigot, stat. rev., and Hemiglobus Frey, stat. rev., resulting in the following 17 new and revised combinations: Hemiglobus cheni (Shi), comb. n.; H. eos (Frey), comb. n.; H. lacunosus Frey, comb. rev.; H. pellucidus Frey, comb. rev.; H. planitarsalis (Shi), comb. n.; H. porosus (Tenorio), comb. n.; H. pulchmaculatus (Liu & Yang), comb. n.; H. quadrimaculatus (Tenorio), comb. n.; H. resplendens Frey, comb. rev.; H. rugosus (Tenorio), comb. n.; H. testaceus (Malloch), comb. n.; H. trichoporis (Shi), comb. n.; H. unicolor Frey, comb. rev.; H. violaceus Chen, comb. rev.; Paracelyphus hyacinthus Bigot, comb. rev.; P. medogis (Shi), comb. n.; P. vittalis (Shi), comb. n.

A New Cryptic Lactura from Texas (Lepidoptera, Zygaenoidea, Lacturidae)
A new species of Lactura is described from Texas: Lactura rubritegula sp. n. Identity of the new species can be reliably determined by both larval and adult characters, CO1 haplotypes, and its late-spring period of flight activity. Male genitalic features overlap with those of L. basistriga (Barnes & McDunnough, 1913), whereas female structures differ markedly between the pair. The new Sideroxylon-feeding species, rare in collections, is found principally in limestone areas in the vicinity San Antonio, Texas, westward through the southern Hill Country. We illustrate the adult and larval stages and male and female genitalia, review available DNA barcode data that support the recognition of the new Lactura, and briefly characterize its life history.
["Sapotaceae"]

Three new cavernicolous species of the millipede genus Trichopeltis Pocock, 1894 from southern China (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Cryptodesmidae)
Three new species of Trichopeltis are described from caves in southern China: T. bellus sp. n., T. intricatus sp. n., and T. reflexus sp. n., all presumed troglobites. The former two come from Yunnan Province, the latter one from Hunan Province. An updated key to all eleven currently known species of Trichopeltis is provided.
["Trichopeltis"]

A new species of Mongolodiaptomus Kiefer, 1938 from northeast Thailand and a key to the species (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae)
This study describes the new species Mongolodiaptomus loeiensis sp. n. collected from a temporary pond nearby a cave located in Loei Province, in northeastern Thailand. Mongolodiaptomus loeiensis sp. n. is similar to M. calcarus (Shen & Tai, 1965) in the male but can be distinguished from its congeners by the following unique characteristics in the males: (1) the right caudal ramus has 3 ventral chitinous prominences; (2) intercoxal plate of P5 is produced into 2 spine-like lobes on distal margin; (3) the basis of right P5 has a subglobular chitinous prominence on mid-distal caudal surface; and (4) the principal lateral spine on the right Exp-2 P5 is extremely bent at its tip. The occurrence of diaptomid copepods in the study area is discussed and an identification key to worldwide species of the genus Mongolodiaptomus Kiefer, 1938 is presented herein.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

A new species of Monstrillopsis (Crustacea, Copepoda, Monstrilloida) from the lower Northwest Passage of the Canadian Arctic
A new species of monstrilloid copepod, Monstrillopsis planifrons sp. n., is described from an adult female that was collected beneath snow-covered sea ice during the 2014 Ice Covered Ecosystem – CAMbridge bay Process Study (ICE-CAMPS) in Dease Strait of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. Currently, up to six species of this order are known to occur in polar latitudes. The new species described herein shares similarities with Monstrillopsis dubia (Scott, 1904) but differs in its body proportions and cephalothorax ornamentation; the cephalothorax is covered by minute scattered papillae on dorsal and ventral surfaces; this species has a reduced fifth leg endopod, fifth leg exopod armed with three setae, antennule with fused segments 3–4, and the genital double-somite bears unique posterolateral processes. This is the second species of this genus recorded in the Arctic, after Monstrillopsis ferrarii (Suárez-Morales & Ivanenko, 2004), described from the White Sea, and is the first record of Monstrillopsis in Canadian waters. With the addition of this new species and the recognition of Monstrillopsis bernardensis comb. nov. as a member of this genus, the number of nominal species is now 15. Overall, this genus has a tendency to be distributed in temperate and cold waters, while only three species have been found in tropical and subtropical latitudes.
["copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Corrigenda: Jiao TY, Yao QY, Xiao H (2017) Review of Dibrachys Förster from China (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae). ZooKeys 656: 123–149.
In a recent paper we described four new species of Dibrachys from China. Unfortunately in this paper we failed to specify the depositories of the primary types which render the names unavailable according to Article 16.4.2 of the fourth edition of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN 1999). The short note is to rectify this situation and make the names available. All the Holotypes and paratypes of the four new species (listed as following) were deposited in the Zoological Museum, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS).
["Corrigenda"]

Revision of the genus Limobius, with the description of a new species (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Hyperini)
The new species, Limobius winkelmanni sp. n. is described, keyed, and illustrated. This enigmatic new species has seven desmomeres as other Hyperini-species, but according to shape of elytra and aedeagus, which are typical for representatives of Limobius, it is treated in this genus. The actualised key and check-list of Limobius is presented. The taxonomical position and status of the genus Limobius within the tribe Hyperini is also discussed here.
["Check-list"]

Roa rumsfeldi, a new butterflyfish (Teleostei, Chaetodontidae) from mesophotic coral ecosystems of the Philippines
A new species of the butterflyfish genus Roa is herein described from the Verde Island Passage in the Philippines, West Pacific Ocean. Roa rumsfeldi sp. n. was found on mesophotic coral ecosystems at Puerto Galera and Batangas, and sampled through technical mixed-gas rebreather diving at 100–130 m depth. This represents the fifth known species of Roa. The main differences between Roa rumsfeldi sp. n. and its congeners are the lower number of pored scales in the lateral line, longer snout, longer caudal peduncle, shorter caudal fin, pelvic fin color (dark first spine vs. white in all other Roa), and genetics (8.4% divergence from its closest relative Roa modesta in the mitochondrial COI gene). Roa spp. are usually seen in pairs, but the two specimens we collected were solitary individuals. We have kept one of the specimens alive in the California Academy of Sciences’ Twilight Zone exhibit for more than one year, where it thrives and is feeding on a variety of dried and fresh food.
["Coral triangle"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

New records of the soldier flies of Morocco with a bibliographical inventory of the North African fauna (Diptera, Stratiomyidae)
A checklist of soldier flies species recorded from the North African countries of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt is based on both literature records and material newly collected in Morocco. Four subfamilies (Stratiomyinae, Sarginae, Nemotelinae, and Pachygasterinae), and twelve species from five genera have been collected and are recognized in Morocco. Pachygaster atra (Panzer, 1798), Oxycera pardalina (Meigen, 1822), Nemotelus danielssoni (Mason, 1989), and Oxycera terminata (Meigen, 1822) are newly recorded to the North African fauna. Nemotelus atriceps (Loew, 1856) and Nemotelus maculiventris (Bigot, 1861) are reported for the first time in Morocco. The present number of soldier flies known from Morocco is 33.

A new genus and species of bristle worm from Beibu Gulf, South China Sea (Annelida, Polychaeta, Amphinomidae)
Alleurythoe, a new genus with type species Alleurythoe tenuichaeta sp. n., is described and illustrated based on material from Beibu Gulf, northwestern South China Sea. The new genus is distinguished from all genera within Amphinomidae by a combination of characters: caruncle trilobed, conspicuous, attached to and confluent with the posterior prostomial lobe, which is free from the body wall and has 6-7 folds on each of the lateral lobes; both noto- and neuropodial aciculae are spinose, extending beyond the chaetal lobe. Alleurythoe tenuichaeta sp. n. is characterized by having branchiae present from chaetiger 4 and a bifurcate neurochaetae capillary. A key distinguishing the genera of Amphinominae is provided.

The millipede genus Stemmiulus Gervais, 1844 in Cameroon, with descriptions of three new species (Diplopoda, Stemmiulida, Stemmiulidae)
The large pantropical millipede genus Stemmiulus, which currently encompasses more than 150 species, i.e. the bulk of the species diversity of the family Stemmiulidae and entire order Stemmiulida, is shown to comprise seven species in Cameroon, including three new ones: S. ongot Nzoko Fiemapong & VandenSpiegel, sp. n., S. uncus Nzoko Fiemapong & VandenSpiegel, sp. n., and S. mbalmayoensis Nzoko Fiemapong & VandenSpiegel, sp. n. In addition, S. beroni Mauriès, 1989, previously known only from the type locality in Nigeria, is recorded from Cameroon for the first time, also being redescribed based on new samples. A key is given to all species of the genus encountered in the country, based on male gonopodal conformation, except for S. camerunensis (Silvestri, 1916), which was described only from female and juvenile material.
["Cameroon"]

Herpetofaunal assemblages of a lowland broadleaf forest, an overgrown orchard forest and a lime orchard in Stann Creek, Belize
Understanding and monitoring ecological impacts of the expanding agricultural industry in Belize is an important step in conservation action. To compare possible alterations in herpetofaunal communities due to these anthropogenic changes, trapping arrays were set in a manicured orchard, a reclaimed orchard and a lowland broadleaf forest in Stann Creek district at Toucan Ridge Ecology and Education Society (TREES). Trapping efforts were carried out during the rainy season, from June to September, 2016, during which time the study site was hit by a category one hurricane between sampling sessions. Trapping yielded 197 individual herpetofauna and 40 different species overall; 108 reptile captures (30 species) and 88 amphibian captures (ten species). Reptiles and amphibians were more abundant in the lowland broadleaf forest and the manicured orchard area. Amphibian species diversity was relatively similar in each habitat type. Reptile captures were most diverse in the Overgrown Orchard Forest (OGF) and Overgrown Orchard Riparian Forest (OGR) and least diverse in the Lowland Broadleaf Forest (LBF). The findings of this study suggest that reptile and amphibian sensitivity to anthropogenically altered areas is minimal when enveloped by natural habitat buffers, and additionally, that extreme weather events have little impact on herpetofauna communities in the area.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Abyssal fauna of the UK-1 polymetallic nodule exploration area, Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean: Mollusca
We present the first DNA taxonomy publication on abyssal Mollusca from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), central Pacific ocean, using material collected as part of the Abyssal Baseline (ABYSSLINE) environmental survey cruise ‘AB01’ to the UK Seabed Resources Ltd (UKSRL) polymetallic-nodule exploration area ‘UK-1’ in the eastern CCZ. This is the third paper in a series to provide regional taxonomic data for a region that is undergoing intense deep-sea mineral exploration for high-grade polymetallic nodules. Taxonomic data are presented for 21 species from 42 records identified by a combination of morphological and genetic data, including molecular phylogenetic analyses. These included 3 heterodont bivalves, 5 protobranch bivalves, 4 pteriomorph bivalves, 1 caudofoveate, 1 monoplacophoran, 1 polyplacophoran, 4 scaphopods and 2 solenogastres. Gastropoda were recovered but will be the subject of a future study. Seven taxa matched published morphological descriptions for species with deep Pacific type localities, and our sequences provide the first genetic data for these taxa. One taxon morphologically matched a known cosmopolitan species but with a type locality in a different ocean basin and was assigned the open nomenclature ‘cf’ as a precautionary approach in taxon assignments to avoid over-estimating species ranges. One taxon is here described as a new species, Ledella knudseni sp. n. For the remaining 12 taxa, we have determined them to be potentially new species, for which we make the raw data, imagery and vouchers available for future taxonomic study. The Clarion-Clipperton Zone is a region undergoing intense exploration for potential deep-sea mineral extraction. We present these data to facilitate future taxonomic and environmental impact study by making both data and voucher materials available through curated and accessible biological collections.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Austromonticola, a new genus of broad-nosed weevil (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae) from montane areas of New Zealand
Austromonticola gen. n. is proposed for a group of eight New Zealand alpine broad-nosed weevil species, all of which are here described: A. atriarius sp. n. (type locality: Umbrella Mountains, Central Otago), A. caelibatus sp. n. (type locality: Ohau Range, Mackenzie), A. furcatus sp. n. (type locality: Old Man Range, Central Otago), A. inflatus sp. n. (type locality: Hawkdun Range, Central Otago), A. planulatus sp. n. (type locality: St Marys Range, Central Otago), A. postinventus sp. n. (type locality: Kirkliston Range, South Canterbury), A. mataura sp. n. (type locality: Mt Dick, Otago Lakes) and A. rotundus sp. n. (type locality: Old Man Range, Central Otago). All species occur exclusively above 1000 m elevation in the mountains of Central Otago and South Canterbury in the South Island. A phylogeny of the genus, including six outgroups, was inferred from 33 morphological characters. It resolved the genus as monophyletic, and revealed two strongly supported clades within Austromonticola. DNA sequences of four gene regions were obtained from five species. Of these, the 3' end of COI proved to be the most suitable for the identification of specimens. Females of all species have diagnostic secondary sexual structures on the elytra and ventrites. These structures are hypothesised to have evolved to assist with oviposition in and beside cushion plants or by selection for structures to mitigate the costs to females of prolonged mating.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of the water mite genus Sperchon Kramer, 1877 from China, with identifying Sperchon rostratus Lundblad, 1969 through DNA barcoding (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Sperchontidae)
A new species of the water mite genus Sperchon Kramer, 1877 from China, Sperchon fuxiensis Zhang, sp. n., is described and illustrated in this article. DNA barcoding for the new species is documented for future use. Descriptions of both male and female of Sperchon rostratus Lundblad, 1969 are given in the present study, and DNA barcoding for identifying S. rostratus is also discussed.
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of the rare Neotropical caddisfly genus Amphoropsyche Holzenthal (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae)
Two new species in the rare, endemic Neotropical caddisfly genus Amphoropsyche Holzenthal, 1985 are described from Ecuador (A. carchi sp. n.) and Peru (A. matsigenka sp. n.) bringing to 17 the number of species known in the genus. Almost all species are known from only a few individuals and from even fewer localities. The new species belong to a group of 10 other species that have tergum X in the male genitalia divided into a mesal process and a pair of lateral processes. Amphoropsyche carchi can be separated from those species by the rounded mesal concavity, the short mesobasal lobe, and the short 2nd article of the inferior appendage, while A. matsigenka can be diagnosed by the very slender and straight inferior appendage, which bears a pair of spine-like mesoventral projections. We also present a new record for Amphoropsyche tandayapa Holzenthal & Rázuri-Gonzales, 2011, from Ecuador, previously known only from the male holotype.

Pseudaspidimerus palatus, a new species of the genus Pseudaspidimerus Kapur, 1948 from the Malay Peninsula (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
A new species of the genus Pseudaspidimerus Kapur, 1948 (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), Pseudaspidimerus palatus Huo & Wang, sp. n. from the Malay Peninsula is described with illustrations and a distribution map. The genus Pseudaspidimerus is recorded for the first time from Malaysia and Singapore.
["Aspidimerini"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

DNA barcoding and morphological analysis for rapid identification of most economically important crop-infesting Sunn pests belonging to Eurygaster Laporte, 1833 (Hemiptera, Scutelleridae)
The genus Eurygaster Laporte, 1833 includes ten species five of which inhabit the European part of Russia. The harmful species of the genus is E. integriceps. Eurygaster species identification based on the morphological traits is very difficult, while that of the species at the egg or larval stages is extremely difficult or impossible. Eurygaster integriceps, E. maura, and E. testudinaria differ only slightly between each other morphologically, E. maura and E. testudinaria being almost indiscernible. DNA barcoding based on COI sequences have shown that E. integriceps differs significantly from these closely related species, which enables its rapid and accurate identification. Based on COI nucleotide sequences, three species of Sunn pests, E. maura, E. testudinarius, E. dilaticollis, could not be differentiated from each other through DNA barcoding. The difference in the DNA sequences between the COI gene of E. integriceps and COI genes of E. maura and E. testudinarius was more than 4%. In the present study DNA barcoding of two Eurygaster species was performed for the first time on E. integriceps, the most dangerous pest in the genus, and E. dilaticollis that only inhabits natural ecosystems. The PCR-RFLP method was developed in this work for the rapid identification of E. integriceps.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

A new species of Scinax from the Purus-Madeira interfluve, Brazilian Amazonia (Anura, Hylidae)
A new tree frog species of the genus Scinax from the interfluve between the Purus and Madeira rivers, Brazilian Amazonia, is described and illustrated. The new species is diagnosed by medium body size, snout truncate in dorsal view, ulnar and tarsal tubercles absent, nuptial pads poorly developed, skin on dorsum shagreen, dorsum light brown with dark brown spots and markings, white groin with black spots, anterior and posterior surfaces of thighs black, and iris bright orange. The advertisement call consists of a single short note, with 16−18 pulses and dominant frequency at 1572−1594 Hz. Tadpoles are characterized by body ovoid in dorsal view and triangular in lateral view, tail higher than body, oral disc located anteroventrally and laterally emarginated, dorsum of body uniformly grey-brown with dark brown eye-snout stripe in preservative, fins translucent with small to large irregular diffuse dark brown spots.
["Amazonian rainforest"]

A new species of Trachymyrmex (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) fungus-growing ant from the Sierra Madre Oriental of northeastern Mexico
Here we describe a new species of Trachymyrmex, T. pakawa sp. n., from the Gran Sierra Plegada range of the Sierra Madre Oriental, in the states of Coahuila and Nuevo Leon, northeastern Mexico. Trachymyrmex pakawa is a large-sized species compared to other North American Trachymyrmex. Its geographic distribution includes the piedmont of the Gran Sierra Plegada at La Estanzuela, Monterrey, as well as peripheral mountains segregated from the Sierra Madre Oriental (Cerro de las Mitras, Sierra de Zapalinamé, Cañon de San Lorenzo, Cerro de las Letras). The preferred habitats of T. pakawa include oak-pine forest at La Estanzuela, xeric oak forest at Zapalinamé and mesic Chihuahuan desert scrub with sotol (Dasylirion) at other sites. All localities are on slopes, on very rocky, shallow lithosols overlaying large boulders. This species nests under and between large boulders and rocks. It has not been observed on alluvial or better developed, deeper soils, and it is absent from sites with human activity (urban, disturbed, and landscaped areas). It is closely related to and morphologically similar to Trachymyrmex smithi. The known distribution ranges of T. pakawa and T. smithi almost overlap in Saltillo, Coahuila state. The main character that distinguishes the new species from T. smithi is longer antennal scapes in T. pakawa; also, different nesting habits (rocky slopes vs. alluvial sites or deep sand in T. smithi), and geographic distribution. Phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequences from the mitochondrial marker cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and the first intron of the F1 copy of the nuclear protein-coding gene Elongation Factor 1- α (EF1-α-F1) confirm a sister-species relationship between T. pakawa and T. smithi. Bayesian coalescent analyses indicate a divergence time of about 8.00 million years before present (95% confidence interval: 4.8–11.5 mya) between T. pakawa and T. smithi. The divergence of the lineages of T. pakawa and T. smithi could have been driven by the Pliocene-Holocene desertification of southwestern North America. This process resulted in isolated mesic refugia and forests in the Madrean ranges and piedmonts of northeastern Mexico (the current habitat of T. pakawa) while T. smithi adapted to the deeper, often sandy soils on the drier desert plains of Coahuila and Chihuahua states in Mexico, and New Mexico and Texas in the USA. Within the Nearctic species of the Trachymyrmex septentrionalis species group, T. pakawa is the species that is closest (by geographical distribution) to Neotropical species of Trachymyrmex like T. saussurei.
["Insecta"]

Aroui minusetosus, a new species of Scopelocheiridae from Korea (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Lysianassoidea)
A new species, Aroui minusetosus sp. n., is recorded from Korean waters with detailed description and illustrations. A new key to all known Aroui is provided. The Korean material of this scopelocheirid is readily assigned to the genus Aroui by the presence of long and distally barbed setae on the outer plate of maxilla 2. This new species is distinguished from congeners by ventrally smooth coxae 1-3 and a setose posteroventral margin of coxa 4, the subchelate gnathopod 2 having a row of four robust setae on its posterior margin (including an elongate single locking seta), and the setation of all appendages which is less dense than in other species. This is the first record of scopelocheirid amphipods from Korean waters.
["Aroui minusetosus sp. n."]

A sea anemone of many names: a review of the taxonomy and distribution of the invasive actiniarian Diadumene lineata (Diadumenidae), with records of its reappearance on the Texas coast
Diadumene lineata (Actiniaria: Diadumenidae) is a prolific invader of coastal environments around the world. First described from Asia, this sea anemone has only been reported once from the western Gulf of Mexico at Port Aransas, Texas. No subsequent sampling has located this species at this locality. The first record of the reappearance of D. lineata on the Texas coast from three locations in the Galveston Bay area is provided, and its geographic distribution and taxonomic history reviewed.
["Galveston Island"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A species checklist of the subgenus Culicoides (Avaritia) in China, with a description of a new species (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)
A checklist of the subgenus Culicoides (Avaritia Fox) (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae: Culicoides) in China, currently including 57 species, is provided. Their full citations, more detailed locations of the type locality, and distribution of each species by province, and/or state of each species are also provided. Culicoides (Avaritia) fenggangensis Liu & Hou, sp. n. is described and illustrated, based on both male and female specimens from China. The new species is compared with its similar congeners, C. (A.) comparis Liu & Yu, 2005 and C. (A.) dentiformis McDonald & Lu, 1972.
["Biting midges"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Animal Disease Management and Epidemiology", "Plant Virus Research Studies"]

Revision of the Neotropical water scavenger beetle genus Quadriops Hansen, 1999 (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Acidocerinae)
The genus Quadriops Hansen, 1999 is revised and redescribed. The genus is found to contain six species, including two that are here described as new: Quadriops clusia sp. n. (Brazil, Guyana, Suriname) and Q. acroreius sp. n. (Suriname, French Guiana). Two species are found to be junior subjective synonyms of Q. depressus Hansen, 1999: Q. amazonensis García, 2000, syn. n. and Q. politus Hansen, 1999, syn. n. The male of Q. similaris Hansen, 1999 is described for the first time. New records are provided for Q. dentatus Hansen, 1999, Q. reticulatus Hansen, 1999, and Q. similaris. All species are described and illustrated in detail. Most species are confirmed as having a terrestrial way of life, with several species being found in rotten fruits, sap flows, and dead wood. Furthermore, we discuss ecological trends of the species given their collecting information.
["terrestrial aquatic beetles"]

Complete mitochondrial genomes from two species of Chinese freshwater crabs of the genus Sinopotamon recovered using next-generation sequencing reveal a novel gene order (Brachyura, Potamidae)
Recent morphological and molecular evidence has challenged classical interpretations of eubrachyuran phylogeny and evolution. Complete mitochondrial genomes of two species of potamid freshwater crabs, Sinopotamon yaanense and Sinopotamon yangtsekiense were obtained using next-generation sequencing. The results revealed a novel gene order with translocations of a five-gene block and a tRNA gene in comparison to available brachyuran mitochondrial genomes. DNA sequence comparisons position the Potamidae, a primary freshwater crab family, outside of the clade for the traditional heterotreme families, and closer to the clade that includes the thoracotreme families of grapsoid and ocypodoid crabs. Mitogenomic comparisons using rapid next-generation sequencing and a much wider taxonomic sample are required for a high-resolution examination of the phylogenetic relationships within the Eubrachyura.
["Eubrachyuran"]

A new terrestrial talitrid genus, Myanmarorchestia, with two new species from Myanmar (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Talitridae)
Myanmarorchestia Hou, gen. n. with two new species is described from terrestrial habitats in Myanmar. This new genus is characterised by 4-dentate lacinia on left mandible, simple gnathopod I in both sexes, weakly chelate gnathopod II in male, simplidactylate pereopods and complex and lobed gills. Myanmarorchestia peterjaegeri Hou, sp. n. closely resembles M. seabri Hou, sp. n. in gnathopod II merus and carpus protuberant on posterior margin; however, the former is distinguished from the latter by palp of maxilla I with two articles, coxal gills convoluted, and telson with nicks on surface. Additionally, DNA barcodes of the new species are obtained to confirm their distinctiveness.

A new species of Stigmatomma from Taiwan (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Amblyoponinae)
Stigmatomma is the most speciose ant genus in the subfamily Amblyoponinae. In the present paper, the worker caste of a new species is described, S. luyiae sp. n., which was collected from a soil sample in a subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest in Taiwan. An identification key to the females of Stigmatomma species with 11 antennomeres occurring in Asia is also provided.

A new large tellinid species of the genus Pharaonella from the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan (Mollusca, Bivalvia)
A new tellinid species, Pharaonella amanyu sp. n., is described from sand banks around Amami Islands, the Ryukyu Archipelago, in southern Japan. A molecular phylogenetic analysis suggests that this new species is closely related to P. sieboldii. This species has long siphons and lives buried deep in well-sorted white sand syntopically with Tonganaella tongana. These rare, large tellinid species are indicators of unspoiled tidal/subtidal sand flats, which should receive the highest priority conservation in the Ryukyu Archipelago.
["Amami Island"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A new species of Tridactylogonus Jeekel, 1982 from South Australia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Tridactylogonus warrenbenensis sp. n. is described from Warrenben Conservation Park at the southern end of the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia. Like T. obscurus Jeekel, 1982 and T. rugosissimus Jeekel, 2002, the new species has prominent cellular sculpturing on the prozonites and granulose sculpturing on parts of the metazonites. Unlike its congeners and most species in the subfamily Australiosomatinae, the new species lacks a femoral process or tubercle on male leg 1.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Callosa gen. n., a new troglobitic genus from southwest China (Araneae, Linyphiidae)
A new linyphiid genus Callosa gen. n., with two new species Callosa ciliata sp. n. (♂♀, type species) and Callosa baiseensis sp. n. (♂♀), from southwest China are described. Detailed description of genitalic characters and somatic features is provided, as well as light microscopy and SEM micrographs of each species. Callosa gen. n. was found in caves in Yunnan and Guangxi, and its copulatory organs are similar to those of Bathyphantes and Porrhomma, but differ greatly in details. The monophyly and placement of Callosa gen. n. are supported by the results of molecular analysis.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New records of Sarcophagidae from Turkey (Diptera)
Faunistic records of 68 flesh fly species are presented, and altogether, 22 species are recorded from Turkey for the first time. A further 46 species were recorded for the first time in at least one Turkish province. This paper presents the first locality data for four additional species, which were previously mentioned only generically in catalogues. One new synonym has been established, Servaisia (s. str.) rybaltschenkoi (Verves, 1977) = Blaesoxipha ataturkia Lehrer, 2008, syn. n. Two new combinations are proposed: Helicophagella (Parabellieria) dreyfusi (Lehrer, 1994), comb. n. and Helicophagella (s. str.) bellae (Lehrer, 2000), comb. n.

Taxonomy of North European Lumbricillus (Clitellata, Enchytraeidae)
Lumbricillus is a genus of clitellate worms with about 80 described species that inhabit marine and limnic habitats. This study follows a recent analysis of the phylogeny of the genus based on 24 species of Lumbricillus collected mainly in Norway and Sweden. We provide the illustrated taxonomic descriptions of all these species and describe two of them as new; Lumbricillus latithecatus sp. n. and L. scandicus sp. n. Using the recent phylogeny, we informally divide Lumbricillus into five distinct morphological groups, into which we also tentatively place the Lumbricillus species not included in this study. Furthermore, we establish Claparedrilus gen. n., with the type species C. semifuscoides sp. n., and transfer Pachydrilus semifuscus Claparède, 1861 (previously referred to Lumbricillus) into said genus.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Echiniscidae from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia, new records and a new species of Bryodelphax Thulin, 1928 (Tardigrada)
Three species of Echiniscus are recorded for the first time from Colombia: Echiniscus dariae, Echiniscus kofordi, and Echiniscus perarmatus. In addition, the description of the new species Bryodelphax kristenseni sp. n., is mainly based on the presence of ten paired plus two unpaired granularly sculptured ventral plates, the dorsal plate ornamentation with superficial irregular pores, no spine on the anterior legs, and the hind legs without papillae or dentate collar.
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Space Exploration and Technology"]

First checklist of the fruit flies of Morocco, including new records (Diptera, Tephritidae)
The first checklist of the Tephritidae of Morocco, containing 59 species, is presented here. Out of 38 species collected during the present project, three (Campiglossa martii (Becker, 1908), Tephritis divisa (Rondani, 1871), and Terellia sp. near longicauda) present new records for North Africa, and ten (Carpomya incompleta (Becker, 1903), Chaetorellia conjuncta (Becker, 1913), Chetostoma curvinerve Rondani, 1856, Dacus frontalis (Becker, 1922), D. longistylus (Wiedemann, 1830), Dioxyna sororcula (Wiedemann, 1830), Ensina sonchi (Linnaeus, 1767), Myopites inulaedyssentericae Blot, 1827, M. stylatus Fabricius, 1794, and Tephritis vespertina (Loew, 1844)) are new for Morocco.
["Anti Atlas"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Two new species of the Phanaeus endymion species group (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae)
Phanaeus bravoensis sp. n. is described from the coniferous-oak forests in the state of Guerrero, and P. huichol sp. n. from coniferous-oak forests and cloud forests in Jalisco and Nayarit. The new species are closely related to P. halffterorum and P. zoque respectively. Morphological trait combination, geographic distribution, and trophic habits show important differences among the studied species. A distribution map and an updated key to separate the species are included.
["Dung beetle"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

A revision of Meladema diving beetles (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae), with the description of a new species from the central Mediterranean based on molecules and morphology
Meladema Laporte, 1835 are relatively large, stream-dwelling diving beetles, distributed widely in the Western Palaearctic, from the Atlantic Islands to Turkey, and from southern France and the Balkans to the central Sahara. In addition to the three previously recognised taxa (M. coriacea Laporte, 1835, M. imbricata (Wollaston, 1871) and M. lanio (Fabricius, 1775)) we describe a new, cryptic, species from the central Mediterranean area, which can be distinguished from M. coriacea on both DNA sequence data and morphology, and provide a key to known species of the genus. Based on the study of genotyped material, both recent and archival, as well as the examination of a large number of museum specimens, we show that M. lepidoptera sp. n. occurs to the apparent exclusion of M. coriacea on Corsica, Sardinia and islands of the Tuscan Archipelago, but that both taxa are found in peninsular Italy, where they may occasionally hybridize. In the absence of the original type series, we designate a neotype for M. coriacea, and take the opportunity to designate a lectotype for M. lanio. Morphological variation in Meladema species is discussed, including that seen in known and presumed hybrids. Our study highlights the incomplete state of knowledge of Mediterranean biodiversity, even in relatively large, supposedly well-studied taxa.
["Systematics"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First record of Thecturota tenuissima Casey from Canada (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Thecturota tenuissima Casey, is reported for the first time from Canada, based on records from Ontario and Quebec. It was originally described from Rhode Island, USA, and no other records of this species in North America were published since that time. The specimens from Canada were captured by car netting. We provide here a redescription of this species and never before published images of habitus, tergite, and sternite VIII of both sexes, median lobe of aedeagus and spermatheca. The features distinguishing T. tenuissima from T. capito Casey (=pusio (Casey)), the only other species reported in Canada, are provided and illustrated.

Comments on the recent changes in taxonomy of pygmy unicorns, with description of a new species of Metopomystrum from Brazil (Insecta, Tetrigidae, Cleostratini, Miriatrini)
The tribe Cleostratini Bolívar, 1887 sensu Storozhenko, 2016 does not represent a monophyletic taxon because it gathers various Tetrigidae genera with various types of horn and prolongation of frons or vertex. Prolongation of these structures is present in morphologically and biogeographically distant groups. We do not regard Miriatrini Cadena-Castañeda & Cardona, 2015 synonymous with Cleostratini because the genus Miriatra Bolívar, 1906 belongs to a group of genera distant from Cleostratus Stål, 1877. There is no adequate diagnosis for proposed groups of genera forming tribes Cleostratini or Miriatrini. Miriatrinistat. resurr. are monotypic and include only Miriatra, Cleostratini are monotypic as well. Apteromystrum Storozhenko, 2016 syn. n. is regarded synonymous with Metopomystrum, M. apterum comb. resurr., M. amazoniensis comb. resurr. and Miriatra brevifastigiata (Cadena-Castañeda & Cardona, 2015), comb. n. are not Metopomystrum member. Herein a new species of pygmy unicorn, Metopomystrum muriciense Silva & Skejo, sp. n., is described from Atlantic Forest remnants in northeast of Brazil, collected on the Estação Serra do Ouro (municipality of Murici, Alagoas state). Distribution data, morphological characterization, and an identification key to Metopomystrum species are also presented.
["Apteromystrum"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Revision of Hemiquedius Casey (Staphylinidae, Staphylininae) and a review of beetles dependent on beavers and muskrats in North America
Based on newly discovered characters on the male genitalia, external morphology and an accumulation of ecological data, we revise the single member of the genus Hemiquedius. Two new species, H. infinitus Brunke & Smetana, sp. n. and H. castoris Brunke & Smetana, sp. n., from eastern North America are described, and H. ferox (LeConte), restricted to peninsular Florida, is re-described. Hemiquedius castoris is strongly associated with the microhabitats provided by nest materials of the North American beaver and muskrat. A key to the three species of Hemiquedius is provided and diagnostic characters are illustrated. We also review the beetles known to be obligate associates of beavers and muskrats, and discuss the potential role of these keystone vertebrates in beetle evolution and distribution. Based on nest-associated beetles and their closest living relatives, beaver and muskrat lodges may extend distributions northward by moderating winters, promote sympatric speciation and act as refugia against extinction of lineages on a broader timescale. Further research into these potential impacts by ecologists and evolutionary biologists is encouraged.
["nidicoly"]
["Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Revision of torrent mites (Parasitengona, Torrenticolidae, Torrenticola) of the United States and Canada: 90 descriptions, molecular phylogenetics, and a key to species
The descriptive biology of torrent mites (Parasitengona: Torrenticolidae: Torrenticola) of North America (north of Mexico) is investigated using integrative methods. Material examined includes approximately 2,300 specimens from nearly 500 localities across the United States and Canada, and a few collections in Mexico and Central America. Species hypotheses are derived from a phylogenetic analysis of the barcoding region of cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) for 476 specimens and supported with morphology and biogeography. Relationships between species are examined with a combined analysis of COI and two expansion regions (D2–3) of the large ribosomal subunit (28S rDNA) for 57 specimens. All previously described species from the US and Canada are examined. Our results indicate the need to synonymize four species: T. mercedensis (Marshall, 1943) is a junior synonym of T. sierrensis (Marshall, 1943); T. rectiforma Habeeb, 1974 is a junior synonym of T. ellipsoidalis (Marshall, 1943); T. neoconnexa Habeeb, 1957 is a junior synonym of T. magnexa Habeeb, 1955; and T. esbelta Cramer, 1992 is a junior synonym of T. boettgeri KO Viets, 1977. We describe 66 new species and re-describe all previously described regional species. Our findings indicate that total diversity of Torrenticola in the United States and Canada comprises 90 species, 57 known from the east and 33 from the west. We organize these species into four species complexes that include 13 identification groups. An additional 13 species do not fit within an identification group. The southern Appalachians are suspected to contain the highest concentration of remaining undescribed diversity. A key is provided to all known species in the US and Canada.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Revision of the ant genus Melophorus (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The fauna of the purely Australian formicine ant genus Melophorus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is revised. This project involved integrated morphological and molecular taxonomy using one mitochondrial gene (COI) and four nuclear genes (AA, H3, LR and Wg). Seven major clades were identified and are here designated as the M. aeneovirens, M. anderseni, M. biroi, M. fulvihirtus, M. ludius, M. majeri and M. potteri species-groups. Within these clades, smaller complexes of similar species were also identified and designated species-complexes. The M. ludius species-group was identified purely on molecular grounds, as the morphology of its members is indistinguishable from typical members of the M. biroi species-complex within the M. biroi species-group. Most species-complexes sampled were also found to be monophyletic. Sequencing generally supported monophyly in taxa sampled but some species of the M. fieldi complex and M. biroi were not monophyletic and the implications arising from this are discussed in this monograph. Based on morphology, ninety-three species are recognized, 73 described as new. A further new species (here called 'Species K' [TERC Collection]) is noted in the taxonomic list, but is not described in this work. One species is removed from Melophorus: M. scipio Forel is here placed provisionally in Prolasius. Six species and five subspecies pass into synonymy. Of the full species, M. constans Santschi, M. iridescens (Emery) and M. insularis Wheeler are synonymized under M. aeneovirens (Lowne), M. pillipes Santschi is synonymized under M. turneri Forel, M. marius Forel is synonymized under M. biroi Forel, and M. omniparens Forel is synonymized under M. wheeleri Forel. Of the subspecies, M. iridescens fraudatrix and M. iridescens froggatti Forel are synonymized under M. aeneovirens (Lowne), M. turneri aesopus Forel and M. turneri candidus Santschi are synonymized under M. turneri Forel and M. fieldi propinqua Viehmeyer is synonymized under M. biroi. Camponotus cowlei Froggatt is reinstated as a junior synonym of Melophorus bagoti Lubbock. In addition, the subspecies M. fieldi major Forel, M. ludius sulla Forel and M. turneri perthensis Forel are raised to species. A key to workers of the genus is supplied. A lectotype is designated for M. curtus Forel, M. sulla, and M. turneri.
["Hymenoptera"]

A taxonomic revision of Liogenys occurring in Brazil with an interactive key and remarks on New World Diplotaxini (Coleoptera, Melolonthidae)
Liogenys Guérin-Méneville, 1831 is the major genus of Neotropical Diplotaxini, with 78 species distributed from Panama to southern Argentina and Chile, except for Ecuador. Due to the large numbers of both described and undescribed species, as well as its agricultural importance, mainly of those in Brazil, Liogenys was redefined and redescribed. Nine new species are described: L. cavifrons Cherman, sp. n., L. femella Cherman, sp. n., L. piauiensis Cherman, sp. n., L. rotundicollis Cherman, sp. n., L. pseudosanctaecrucis Cherman, sp. n., L. grossii Cherman, sp. n., L. pseudospiniventris Cherman, sp. n., L. sulcoventris Cherman, sp. n., and L. freyi Cherman, sp. n. All the new species are Brazilian, except for the last one, which is Argentinian. Twenty-three Brazilian species are redescribed and illustrated. Five new synonyms are proposed, and 19 lectotypes are designated. New geographical distribution records for 19 species are presented, as well as a key to New World Diplotaxini and Brazilian species of Liogenys.

New species of Trigonalyidae (Hymenoptera) from NW China
Four new species of Trigonalyidae are described and illustrated from Qinling Mts (Shaanxi, NW China): Bareogonalos xibeidai Tan & van Achterberg, sp. n., Jezonogonalos mandibularis sp. n., J. shaanxiensis sp. n., and Taeniogonalos paraclypeata sp. n. Orthogonalys hirasana Teranishi, 1929, is re-instated and reported from China. The female of Taeniogonalos alticola (Tsuneki, 1991) is described for the first time. In total, 18 species are known from Shaanxi province, 20 species for NW China, and eight described species are newly recorded for Shaanxi: Jezonogonalos luteata Chen et al., 2014, Orthogonalys hirasana Teranishi, 1929, O. elongata Teranishi, 1929, Pseudogonalos hahnii (Spinola, 1840), Taeniogonalos alticola (Tsuneki, 1991), T. formosana (Bischoff, 1913), T. taihorina (Bischoff, 1914), and Teranishia glabrata Chen et al., 2014. Poecilogonalos maga Teranishi, 1929, syn. n. and Taiwanogonalos claripennis Tsuneki, 1991, syn. n. are new synonyms of Taeniogonalos taihorina (Bischoff, 1914) and Taiwanogonalos alishana Tsuneki, 1991, syn. n. of Taeniogonalos alticola (Tsuneki, 1991). Revised keys to species of the genera Bareogonalos, Jezonogonalos, and Orthogonalys are included.
["Trigonalyidae"]

Hidden in the urban parks of New York City: Themira lohmanus, a new species of Sepsidae described based on morphology, DNA sequences, mating behavior, and reproductive isolation (Sepsidae, Diptera)
New species from well-studied taxa such as Sepsidae (Diptera) are rarely described from localities that have been extensively explored and one may think that New York City belongs to this category. Yet, a new species of Themira (Diptera: Sepsidae) was recently discovered which is currently only known to reside in two of New York City’s largest urban parks. Finding a new species of Themira in these parks was all the more surprising because the genus was revised in 1998 and is not particularly species-rich (13 species). Its status is confirmed as a new species based on morphology, DNA sequences, and reproductive isolation tests with a closely related species, and is described as Themira lohmanus Ang, sp. n. The species breeds on waterfowl dung and it is hypothesized that this makes the species rare in natural environments. However, it thrives in urban parks where the public feeds ducks and geese. The mating behavior of Themira lohmanus was recorded and is similar to the behavior of its closest relative T. biloba.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Status of the new genera in Gistel’s “Die Insecten-Doubletten aus der Sammlung des Herrn Grafen Rudolph von Jenison Walworth” issued in 1834
All new genus-group names included in Gistel’s list of Coleoptera from the collection of Count Rudolph von Jenison Walwort, published in 1834, are recorded. For each of these names, the originally included available species are listed and for those with at least one available species included, the type species and current status are provided. The following new synonymies are proposed [valid names in brackets]: Auxora [Nebria Latreille, 1806; Carabidae], Necrotroctes [Velleius Leach, 1819; Staphylinidae], Epimachus [Ochthephilum Stephens, 1829; Staphylinidae], Ocys [Anaulacaspis Ganglbauer, 1895; Staphylinidae], Hydatobia [Autalia Samouelle, 1819; Staphylinidae], Hedonius [Pyrophorus Billberg, 1820; Elateridae], Charmionus [Chalcolepidius Eschscholtz, 1829; Elateridae], Lamprias [Alaus Eschscholtz, 1829; Elateridae], Trypheus [Aeolus Eschscholtz, 1829; Elateridae], Antiphus [Cardiorhinus Eschscholtz, 1829; Elateridae], Phyletus [Lygistopterus Dejean, 1833; Lycidae], Phyllogaster [Lucidota Laporte, 1833; Lampyridae], Pyrrhigius [Phosphaenus Laporte, 1833; Lampyridae], Erota [Luciola Laporte, 1833; Lampyridae], Oxypterus [Aspisoma Laporte, 1833; Lampyridae], Phyllophagus [Chauliognathus Hentz, 1830; Cantharidae], Epaphius [Astylus Laporte, 1836; Melyridae], Isomerus [Choleva Latreille, 1797; Leiodidae], Berecyntha [Aulacochilus Chevrolat, 1836; Erotylidae], Geophilus [Psammodius Fallén, 1807; Scarabaeidae], Ceraunus [Golofa Hope, 1837; Scarabaeidae], Atrimedeus [Pentodon Hope, 1837; Scarabaeidae], Eupalus [Temnorhynchus Hope, 1837; Scarabaeidae], Polycarmes [Anoxia Laporte, 1832; Scarabaeidae], Acidota [Amphicoma Latreille, 1807; Glaphyridae], Cecrops [Mylaris Pallas, 1781; Tenebrionidae], Pythonissus [Zophobas Dejean, 1834; Tenebrionidae], Physignathus [Cymatothes Dejean, 1834; Tenebrionidae], Pelops [Prionychus Solier, 1835; Tenebrionidae], Accantosomus [Semiotus Eschscholtz, 1829; Elateridae]. The type species of the following genus-group taxa are proposed: Ocys [Aleochara nigra Gravenhorst, 1802; Staphylinidae], Hydatobia [Staphylinus impressus Olivier, 1795; Staphylinidae], Hedonius [Elater noctilucus Linnaeus, 1758; Elateridae], Charmionus [Elater porcatus Linnaeus, 1767; Elateridae], Epaphius [Dasytes variegatus Germar, 1823; Melyridae], Geophilus [Scarabeus asper Fabricius, 1775; Scarabaeidae], Atrimedeus [Scarabaeus punctatus Villers, 1789; Scarabaeidae], Polycarmes [Melolontha villosa Fabricius, 1781; Scarabaeidae], Cecrops [Tenebrio gigas Linnaeus, 1763; Tenebrionidae], Pythonissus [Helops morio Fabricius, 1777; Tenebrionidae], Ceratades [Cerambyx sutor Linnaeus, 1758; Cerambycidae]. The following genus-group names are declared nomina oblita [nomina protecta in square brackets]: Berecyntha [Aulacochilus Chevrolat, 1836; Erotylidae], Ceraunus [Golofa Hope, 1837; Scarabaeidae], Atrimedeus [Pentodon Hope, 1837; Scarabaeidae], Eupalus [Temnorhynchus Hope, 1837; Scarabaeidae], Pelops [Prionychus Solier, 1835; Tenebrionidae].
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Three new species of the Chinese planthopper genus Tetricodes Fennah (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Issidae, Parahiraciini)
The diagnostic characters of the Chinese planthopper genus Tetricodes Fennah, 1956 are redefined. Three new species of this genus, T. ansatus Chang & Chen, sp. n. (China: Guangxi), T. parvispinus Chang & Chen, sp. n. (China: Guizhou) and T. similis Chang & Chen, sp. n. (China: Guizhou) are described and illustrated. The female genitalia of the genus is described and illustrated for the first time. A checklist and key to the species of Tetricodes are given. The synonymy of Tetricodes songae Zhang & Chen, 2009 with Tetricodes polyphemus Fennah, 1956, syn. n., is proposed.
["Fulgoromorpha"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

A new species of Oxyptilus Zeller from the southwestern United States (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae)
Oxyptilus eleanerae sp. n., is described from New Mexico, Arizona, and Southwest Texas, and compared with the only other Oxyptilus occurring in the Nearctic Region, O. delawaricus Zeller. A redescription is provided for O. delawaricus. Adults and male and female genitalia are illustrated for both species. Key morphological characters, distributions, and relationships within the genus are discussed.
["Davis Mountains"]

On the identity of Leptoxis taeniata – a misapplied name for the threatened Painted Rocksnail (Cerithioidea, Pleuroceridae)
The Painted Rocksnail, currently known as Leptoxis taeniata, is a federally threatened species native to the Mobile River basin in Alabama, USA. Presently restricted to four disjunct populations, the species is at considerable risk of extinction after a range decline of over 95% in the 20th century because of habitat alteration following impoundment of the Coosa River. Here, we reassess the identity and historical range of the Painted Rocksnail to improve communication and conservation efforts for the species. We determined that L. taeniata is a synonym of L. picta and that the name L. taeniata has been misapplied to the current concept of the Painted Rocksnail for which L. coosaensis is the oldest available name. Leptoxis coosaensis and L. picta are herein redescribed. After examination of historical material, we determined that records of the Painted Rocksnail outside the Coosa River drainage were misidentifications. Thus, we redefine the historical range of the Painted Rocksnail as restricted to the Coosa River and select tributaries above the Fall Line at Wetumpka, Alabama, rather than extending into the Alabama River as previously thought. Leptoxis coosaensis is in dire need of conservation, and management plans should take into consideration the revised historical range of the species.
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

New species of Rogmocrypta Simon, 1900 from New Caledonia, with remarks on relationships and distribution (Araneae, Salticidae)
Five new species of Rogmocrypta: R. karolinae (♀), R. koniambo (♀), R. patryki (♀), R. raveni (♀), and R. rollardae (♀) are diagnosed, described, and illustrated. The definition of the genus is ammended and its distribution and relationships are discussed.
["distribution modelling"]

A new species of Notodiaptomus from the Ecuadorian Andes (Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae)
Notodiaptomus cannarensis sp. n. is described from a reservoir on the Amazonian slope of the Ecuadorian Andes. The new species is unique among diaptomid calanoid copepods in the display of hypertrophied, symmetrical wing-like extensions at each side of the female composite genital somite. Furthermore, it displays a female urosome reduced to only two somites due to the incorporation of abdominal somites III and IV to the composite genital double-somite, and a male right fifth leg with the outer spine of second exopodal segment recurved and implanted proximally on margin. It differs from any other Notodiaptomus in the display of a large rectangular lamella on proximal segment of exopod of male right fifth leg. The species is currently known only from Mazar reservoir, a eutrophic water body placed above 2127 m a.s.l. on the River Paute (Cañar Province; southern Ecuador), where it is the most common crustacean in the water column.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Nornalup, a new genus of pselaphine beetle from southwestern Australia (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Faronitae)
A new genus and three new species of the southwestern Australian pselaphine beetles belonging to the supertribe Faronitae are described: Nornalup Park & Chandler, gen. n., based on Nornalup afoveatus Park & Chandler, sp. n., Nornalup quadratus Park & Chandler, sp. n., and Nornalup minusculus Park & Chandler, sp. n. Illustrations of their habitus and major diagnostic characters are provided, as well as distribution maps and a key to species.

The larvae of Sericostoma bergeri Malicky, 1973 and Sericostoma herakles Malicky, 1999 (Trichoptera, Sericostomatidae)
This paper describes the previously unknown larvae of Sericostoma bergeri and S. herakles (Trichoptera: Sericostomatidae) restricted to European Ecoregion 6 (= Hellenic western Balkan). Information on the morphology of the larvae is given, and the most important diagnostic features are illustrated. Sericostoma bergeri and S. herakles can be easily separated from known sericostomatid larvae of Ecoregion 6 (Schizopelex huettingeri, Oecismus monedula, Sericostoma flavicorne and S. personatum) by the shape of the pronotum, presence or lack of a comma-like marking on the lateral protuberance, by the number of setae on abdominal dorsum IX, and by distribution patterns. With respect to the latter, S. bergeri is a micro-endemic of the Greek Islands of Euboea and Andros whereas S. herakles is an endemic of the Peloponnese. The species are integrated in a dichotomous key including the currently known Sericostomatidae larvae of the Hellenic western Balkan. In addition, ecological information on the two species is provided.

Morphological analysis of Trichomycterus areolatus Valenciennes, 1846 from southern Chilean rivers using a truss-based system (Siluriformes, Trichomycteridae)
Trichomycterus areolatus Valenciennes, 1846 is a small endemic catfish inhabiting the Andean river basins of Chile. In this study, the morphological variability of three T. areolatus populations, collected in two river basins from southern Chile, was assessed with multivariate analyses, including principal component analysis (PCA) and discriminant function analysis (DFA). It is hypothesized that populations must segregate morphologically from each other based on the river basin that they were sampled from, since each basin presents relatively particular hydrological characteristics. Significant morphological differences among the three populations were found with PCA (ANOSIM test, r = 0.552, p < 0.0001) and DFA (Wilks’s λ = 0.036, p < 0.01). PCA accounted for a total variation of 56.16% by the first two principal components. The first Principal Component (PC1) and PC2 explained 34.72 and 21.44% of the total variation, respectively. The scatter-plot of the first two discriminant functions (DF1 on DF2) also validated the existence of three different populations. In group classification using DFA, 93.3% of the specimens were correctly-classified into their original populations. Of the total of 22 transformed truss measurements, 17 exhibited highly significant (p < 0.01) differences among populations. The data support the existence of T. areolatus morphological variation across different rivers in southern Chile, likely reflecting the geographic isolation underlying population structure of the species.
["Morphological variability"]

Cecidonius pampeanus, gen. et sp. n.: an overlooked and rare, new gall-inducing micromoth associated with Schinus in southern Brazil (Lepidoptera, Cecidosidae)
Galls induced by the larval stage of cecidosids (Lepidoptera: Cecidosidae) are complex, multi-trophic systems, still poorly studied. They may be associated with other insect feeding guilds, including inquilines, kleptoparasites, cecidophages, parasitoids, and predators. By causing death of the gall inducer early in life and altering the gall phenotype, inquilines may lead to misidentification of the true gall inducers. Here, we describe through light and scanning electron microscopy Cecidonius pampeanus, a new genus and species of cecidosid moth, from the Pampa biome, south Brazil. It induces unnoticed, small galls under swollen stems of Schinus weinmannifolius Mart. ex Engl. (Anacardiaceae). Such galls are severely attacked early in ontogeny either by unidentified parasitoids belonging to Lyrcus Walker (Pteromalidae) that feed upon the inducer, or by inquiline wasps of the genus Allorhogas Gahan (Braconidae). The inquilines modify the galls into large ones that last longer and promptly call attention. Free-living galls are rare and dehiscent, pupation of C. pampeanus occurring on the ground. Due to these reasons the true inducer has been overlooked in this case for more than a century. Additionally we inferred a phylogeny for Cecidosidae using sequences from mitochondrial and nuclear loci, and characterized genetic variation and gene flow across ten populations. Despite its natural history similarities with the African genus Scyrotis, Cecidonius is a much younger lineage, more closely related to the Neotropical cecidosids. C. pampeanus populations, which are now confined to a few mountain areas within its distribution range due to habitat destruction, are also genetically isolated, requiring conservation measures.
["Anacardiaceae"]

Taxonomic study of the genus Neocarpia Tsaur & Hsu, with descriptions of two new species from China (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae)
The cixiid planthoppers genus Neocarpia Tsaur & Hsu, 2003 is reviewed. Two new species, N. acutata Zhi & Chen, sp. n. and N. reversa Zhi & Chen, sp. n., are described and illustrated from the southwest of China (Yunnan) to give the genus seven species in total. Female genitalia of four Chinese species are described and illustrated for the first time. A key to all known species of Neocarpia based on male genitalia, and a key to Chinese species (except for N. maai) based on female genitalia, are provided. The morphological characteristics of the posterior vagina, utilized to distinguish female species of Neocarpia, are also discussed.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis"]

Cirolana phuketensis, a new species of marine isopod (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cirolanidae) from the Andaman Sea coast of Thailand
Cirolana phuketensis sp. n. was collected from coral rubble from the Andaman sea coast of Thailand. C. phuketensis sp. n. is described and fully illustrated; C. phuketensis sp. n. can be recognized by the presence of transverse sutures on pereonites 2–4, pereonite 7 having three transverse sutures forming a nodulose ridge, antennula peduncle with articles 1 and 2 fully fused; pleotelson dorsal surface with 2 sub-median longitudinal carinae, each of which has one prominent tubercle, lateral margins weakly convex, and posterior margin narrow and rounded; 6 molariform robust setae pereopod 1 on inferior margin of merus and the penial openings are two low tubercles. A dichotomous key to species of Cirolana in Thailand is given.
["Isopoda"]

Taxonomic notes on two sibling species of Metellina from Asia (Araneae, Tetragnathidae)
Two sibling species, Metellina orientalis (Spassky, 1932) and M. kirgisica (Bakhvalov, 1974), occurring in the Middle East and Central Asia are redescribed and their distributions mapped. The previously unknown male of M. kirgisica is described for the first time. Stridulatory files on male chelicera of Metellina are also documented for the first time. The occurrence of M. kirgisica in Azerbaijan and Tajikistan and the presence of M. orientalis in Turkey are confirmed.
["Anatolia"]

A genome-wide phylogeny of jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae), using anchored hybrid enrichment
We present the first genome-wide molecular phylogeny of jumping spiders (Araneae: Salticidae), inferred from Anchored Hybrid Enrichment (AHE) sequence data. From 12 outgroups plus 34 salticid taxa representing all but one subfamily and most major groups recognized in previous work, we obtained 447 loci totalling 96,946 aligned nucleotide sites. Our analyses using concatenated likelihood, parsimony, and coalescent methods (ASTRAL and SVDQuartets) strongly confirm most previous results, resolving as monophyletic the Spartaeinae, Salticinae (with the hisponines sister), Salticoida, Amycoida, Saltafresia, and Simonida. The agoriines, previously difficult to place beyond subfamily, are finally placed confidently within the saltafresians as relatives of the chrysillines and hasariines. Relationships among the baviines, astioids, marpissoids, and saltafresians remain uncertain, though our analyses tentatively conclude the first three form a clade together. Deep relationships, among the seven subfamilies, appear to be largely resolved, with spartaeines, lyssomanines, and asemoneines forming a clade. In most analyses, Onomastus (representing the onomastines) is strongly supported as sister to the hisponines plus salticines. Overall, the much-improved resolution of many deep relationships despite a relatively sparse taxon sample suggests AHE is a promising technique for salticid phylogenetics.
["Dionycha"]

A new species of the genus Kurixalus from Yunnan, China (Anura, Rhacophoridae)
A new species of the genus Kurixalus (Anura: Rhacophoridae) is described from Yunnan, China based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species, Kurixalus lenquanensis sp. n., is distinguished from other congeneric species by a combination of (1) smaller body size (SVL in males ranges from 25.0 to 28.9 mm), (2) obtusely pointed snout with no prominence on tip, (3) rough and brown dorsum with darker mark, (4) absence of large dark spots on ventral surface, (5) brownish clouded chin, (6) granular throat, chest, and belly, (7) presence of vomerine teeth, (8) serrated dermal fringes along outer edge of limbs, (9) slight nuptial pad, (10) golden brown iris, and (11) single internal vocal sac. The new species is known only from montane scrub vegetation at the type locality (Lenquan Village, Mengzi City, Yunnan Province) and Yangjiatian Village, Gejiu City, Yunnan Province. Genetically, the new species is nested within a clade of Taiwanese Kurixalus and recovered as the sister taxon to Kurixalus idiootocus with strong support values, indicating that the ancestor of this new species might have come from Taiwan Island or the ancestor of this new species may have been widespread in southern China and the descendent species in between Taiwan and Yunnan has become extinct.

Eight new species of Batrisodes Reitter from China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
Eight new species of the genus Batrisodes Reitter are described from continental China, seven of which were found in association with ants: B. abdominalis sp. n. and B. tianmuensis sp. n. with an Ectomomyrmex ant from Zhejiang; B. grossus sp. n. with an Odontomachus ant from Guangxi; B. simianshanus sp. n. with an Aphaenogaster ant from Chongqing; B. qiului sp. n. with a Pheidole ant, B. xuhaoi sp. n. with a Lasius ant, and B. zhouchaoi sp. n. with Lasius and Nylanderia ants from Sichuan. Batrisodes zethus sp. n. was collected from a leaf litter sample.
["Batrisodes"]

Notes on two crabs (Crustacea, Brachyura, Dynomenidae and Iphiculidae) collected from red coral beds in northern Taiwan, including a new species of Pariphiculus Alcock, 1896
Two brachyuran species of the families Dynonemidae and Iphiculidae are reported from red coral beds in northern Taiwan. The dynonemid Acanthodromia margarita (Alcock, 1899) has hitherto been reported from the Andaman Sea, Japan, and Philippines and the species is here recorded for the first time from Taiwan. A new species of iphiculid, Pariphiculus stellatus sp. n., is also described. The new Pariphiculus, which also occurs in the Philippines, is superficially similar to P. agariciferus Ihle, 1918, a species known from Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, South China Sea, Taiwan, and Vanuatu, but can be distinguished by distinct carapace, pleonal and male first gonopod features.
["Brachyuran crab"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

A new species of the subgenus Scymnus from Pakistan (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
A new species, Scymnus (Scymnus) contortubus Rashid, Chen & Wang, sp. n., is described and illustrated from Pakistan. A diagnosis, remarks, illustrations, and a distribution map are provided of the new species and its most similar congener, S. (S..) nubilus Mulsant.

A new species of the genus Rana from Henan, central China (Anura, Ranidae)
A new species of brown frog Rana luanchuanensis Zhao & Yuan, sp. n. is described from Luanchuan County, western Henan, central China. The mitochondrial genealogy suggests that the new species is the sister taxon to the clade including R. amurensis and R. coreana, and is separated by uncorrected pairwise distances more than 12.5%. Morphologically, this new species differs from its congeners by a suite of characters. Analyses of partial sequences of cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) resolve the new species as a single matriline.
["Brown frog"]

Revision of Massylaea Möllendorff, 1898 (Stylommatophora, Helicidae)
In this paper some helicoid species from eastern Algeria are investigated using a morphological and molecular approach. The investigation of the genital organs of M. massylaea (Morelet, 1851), the type species of the genus Massylaea Möllendorff, 1898, showed the same autapomorphic character states as are considered typical for Eobania P. Hesse, 1913. These findings are fully supported by the genetic analysis using two mitochondrial and three nuclear markers. Thus, the latter genus has to be considered a synonym of the former. Currently, three species are known to comprise the genus, viz. M. massylaea, M. constantina (E. Forbes, 1838), and M. vermiculata (O. F. Müller, 1774). Several nominal taxa from northern Africa are synonymised with one of the species mentioned here under Massylaea. The generic position of the so-called “Massylaea” species from the High Atlas Mountains in southern Morocco remains unresolved.
["Massylaea"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Two new species and two new records of fungus-feeding Phlaeothripinae from China (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae)
Two new species of fungivorous Phlaeothripinae, Mystrothrips levis sp. n. and Urothrips lancangensis sp. n., are described from China. Pentagonothrips antennalis Haga & Okajima and Plectrothrips bicolor Okajima are newly recorded in China.
["leaf litter thrips"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Lithobius (Chinobius) yuchernovi, a new lithobiid species from northeastern Siberia and the Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha)
Lithobius yuchernovi sp. n. is described, based on type material from the Ola Plateau, Magadan Region, Russia. The new species is widely distributed in northeastern Siberia, ranging from the Magadan Region, until the eastern Chukot Autonomous Region and the Kamchatka Peninsula in the southeast, whence non-type material is documented. This species belongs to the subgenus Chinobius Matic, 1973 based on the structure of the female gonopodal claw (more than two denticles on the internal ridge). It differs from all Palearctic species of the genus Lithobius by the following apomorphy: distoventral tubercle supporting a cluster of long and curved setae situated on the last male tibia. In addition, it shows dorsal and ventral sulci on the last legs. New replacement names are introduced: Lithobius zachiui nom. n. for Lithobius (Chinobius) orientalis (Matic, 1973) and Lithobius carli nom. n. for Lithobius (Alokobius) orientalis Attems, 1953.
["Lithobius"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Next-generation morphological character discovery and evaluation: an X-ray micro-CT enhanced revision of the ant genus Zasphinctus Wheeler (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Dorylinae) in the Afrotropics
New technologies for imaging and analysis of morphological characters offer opportunities to enhance revisionary taxonomy and better integrate it with the rest of biology. In this study, we revise the Afrotropical fauna of the ant genus Zasphinctus Wheeler, and use high-resolution X-ray microtomography (micro-CT) to analyse a number of morphological characters of taxonomic and biological interest. We recognise and describe three new species: Z. obamai sp. n., Z. sarowiwai sp. n., and Z. wilsoni sp. n. The species delimitations are based on the morphological examination of all physical specimens in combination with 3D scans and volume reconstructions. Based on this approach, we present a new taxonomic discrimination system for the regional fauna that consists of a combination of easily observable morphological characters visible at magnifications of around 80–100 ×, less observable characters that require higher magnifications, as well as characters made visible through virtual dissections that would otherwise require destructive treatment. Zasphinctus are rarely collected ants and the material available to us is comparatively scarce. Consequently, we explore the use of micro-CT as a non-invasive tool for the virtual examination, manipulation, and dissection of such rare material. Furthermore, we delineate the treated species by providing a diagnostic character matrix illustrated by numerous images and supplement that with additional evidence in the form of stacked montage images, 3D PDFs and 3D rotation videos of scans of major body parts and full body (in total we provide 16 stacked montage photographs, 116 images of 3D reconstructions, 15 3D rotation videos, and 13 3D PDFs). In addition to the comparative morphology analyses used for species delimitations, we also apply micro-CT data to examine certain traits, such as mouthparts, cuticle thickness, and thoracic and abdominal muscles in order to assess their taxonomic usefulness or gain insights into the natural history of the genus. The complete datasets comprising the raw micro-CT data, 3D PDFs, 3D rotation videos, still images of 3D models, and coloured montage photos have been made available online as cybertypes (Dryad, http://dx.doi.org/10.5061/dryad.4s3v1).
["3D model"]

Faunistic and bibliographical inventory of moth flies from Ukraine (Diptera, Psychodidae)
All important published records for 11 moth fly species known so far from Ukraine are reviewed (Phlebotominae 10 species, Psychodinae 1 species). Occurrences of two problematic taxa, Phlebotomus (Adlerius) brevis Theodor & Mesghali, 1964 and P. (Larroussius) major major Annandale, 1910, and some synonymies are discussed. Threticus negrobovi Vaillant, 1972 must be deleted for Ukraine (misstatement). First records of 34 species of Psychodinae (tribes Mormiini, Paramormiini, Psychodini, Pericomaini) and one of Sycoracinae from Ukraine are also listed.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Nipponnemertes incainca sp. n. Adoption of the new taxonomic proposal for nemerteans (Nemertea, Cratenemertidae)
A new species Nipponemertesincainca is described from the intertidal zone of Santa Marta, Colombia. A new recent approach based on both morphological and molecular characters is applied for the description. The main characteristics of the species are: red color, head shield-shaped with a mid-dorsal cephalic ridge, furrows pre-cerebral inconspicuous with few faint ridges orthogonal to furrow axis, two irregular groups of eyespots situated at lateral margins in precerebral cephalic region, proboscis provided with papillae and 12 nerves, stylet smooth supported on an oval basis, and two pouches containing 3–4 accessory stylets each. The sequence of the COI gene was analyzed as an additional support for the new species.

Three new species of Pinelema from caves in Guangxi, China (Araneae, Telemidae)
Three new Pinelema species, P. cunfengensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. podiensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), and P. qingfengensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), are described from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, bringing the total number of Pinelema species to eight. All occur in Yunnan Province or the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The male palp of Telemidae was studied for the first time using scanning electron microscope.

A new species of wasp-mimicking clearwing moth from Peninsular Malaysia with DNA barcode and behavioural notes (Lepidoptera, Sesiidae)
A new species of clearwing moth, Pyrophleps ellawi Skowron Volponi, sp. n., is described from Peninsular Malaysia. Information on the habitat, time and conditions of occurrence, flight and mud-puddling behaviour, functional morphology, and DNA barcode are also provided. Photographs and a supplementary video from the wild demonstrate the postures and behaviour of this species of Pyrophleps, whose remaining members were described only on the basis of pinned specimens. This is the first record of this genus in Peninsular Malaysia.
["Sesiidae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A review of the land snail genus Alycaeus (Gastropoda, Alycaeidae) in Peninsular Malaysia
A total of 11 species and 1 subspecies of Alycaeus were recognised in Peninsular Malaysia prior to this study. However, these taxonomic descriptions of Alycaeus taxa were based on limited numbers of examined materials, where a whole spectrum of morphological variations were not accounted for and diagnoses were often provided without sufficient comparison between congeners from across the peninsula. We reviewed Peninsular Malaysian Alycaeus through the examination of 5137 specimens in 522 collection lots from all major museum collections and literature sources. Based on these examined materials, we utilised a more comprehensive revised set of 39 shell and operculum characters, as well as living animal colour to describe all Alycaeus species in this paper. We also noted their habitat and ecology, as well as updated the distribution of each species. Of the 12 previously described taxa, 10 are reconfirmed as present on Peninsular Malaysia (Alycaeus balingensis, Alycaeus carinata, Alycaeus conformis, Alycaeus gibbosulus, Alycaeus kapayanensis, Alycaeus kelantanensis, Alycaeus liratulus, Alycaeus perakensis perakensis, Alycaeus perakensis altispirus and Alycaeus thieroti) and 2 are confirmed as absent from the peninsula (Alycaeus jagori and Alycaeus pyramidalis). A new record of Alycaeus robeleni is reported for Peninsular Malaysia. One species, Chamalycaeus jousseaumei is confirmed as present on the peninsula and is reassigned to Alycaeus. The subspecies Alycaeus perakensis altispirus Möllendorff, 1902, is elevated to species. Examined Peninsular Malaysian materials that do not fit previously recognised species are described as new species. A total of 11 new species are proposed (Alycaeus selangoriensis sp. n., Alycaeus costacrassa sp. n., Alycaeus ikanensis sp. n., Alycaeus alticola sp. n., Alycaeus charasensis sp. n., Alycaeus kurauensis sp. n., Alycaeus regalis sp. n., Alycaeus virgogravida sp. n., Alycaeus senyumensis sp. n., Alycaeus expansus sp. n., Alycaeus clementsi sp. n.). Overall, 23 species of Alycaeus are now recognised in Peninsular Malaysia.
["land snail"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

New species and new records of earthworms of the genus Drawida from Kerala part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, India (Oligochaeta, Moniligastridae)
Two new species of Drawida Michaelsen, 1900, namely Drawida polydiverticulata Narayanan & Julka, sp. n. and Drawida thomasi Narayanan & Julka, sp. n., are described from material collected from the Indian state of Kerala, which lies in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. Drawida elegans Rao, 1921, Drawida kanarensis Stephenson, 1917, Drawida modesta Rao, 1921, Drawida somavarpatana Rao, 1921, and Drawida thurstoni Gates, 1945 are recorded for the first time from the state.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species"]

The Orthoptera of Castro Verde Special Protection Area (Southern Portugal): new data and conservation value
With the increasing awareness of the need for Orthoptera conservation, greater efforts must be gathered to implement specific monitoring schemes. Despite recent surveys, little is known about Portuguese Orthoptera populations. This study was performed in 2014 and 2015 mainly in Castro Verde Special Protection Area (SPA), southern Portugal, and is the first Orthoptera inventory conducted in the area. A total of 35 Orthoptera species was recorded, with two new species reported for Portugal. We provide species’ habitat occurrences within the protected area and use information on the conservation status and the Iberian distribution of each documented species to discuss the importance of Castro Verde SPA for Orthoptera conservation. The data presented here sheds new light on Castro Verde SPA biodiversity and emphasizes the inclusion of this area in the conservation of Orthoptera diversity, particularly in the protection of threatened endemic species.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Formal recognition of the species of Oreosaurus (Reptilia, Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia
Oreosaurus is one of the two genera extracted from the former Riamasensu lato, which was recently recognized as polyphyletic. Oreosaurus is a small clade (five named and two undescribed species) of montane gymnophthalmid lizards and exhibits an exceptional distributional pattern. Its nominal and undescribed species are discontinuously distributed on the Cordillera de la Costa of Venezuela, the tepuis from the Chimantá massif in Venezuela, the highlands of the island of Trinidad, and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia (SNSM). Herein, we describe the species of Oreosaurus that is endemic to the SNSM. Historically, this species associates with two names that are currently nomina nuda: Proctoporus serranus and P. specularis. Formal nomenclatural recognition of Oreosaurus serranus sp. n. renders specularis a permanently unavailable name for this taxon. Oreosaurus serranus sp. n. is the sister of all remaining congeners, and differs primarily from them in having only one pair of genial scales, as well as a unique pattern of scutellation. We provide an identification key to the species of Oreosaurus.
["Microteiid lizard"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences"]

A taxonomic review of the Selenophori group (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Harpalini) in the West Indies, with descriptions of new species and notes about classification and biogeography
Primarily a taxonomic review of the West Indian elements of the selenophorine Harpalini, this paper includes a classification, a key, descriptions and illustrations of taxa, re-rankings, and new synonymies. In total, 45 species and subspecies are treated, six of which are described as new. A new genus and new species are as follows, with type localities in parentheses: Paraulacoryssus gen. n., (type species Selenophorus puertoricensis Mutchler, 1934); Neodiachipteryx davidsoni sp. n., (Zamba, Dominican Republic); Selenophorus spinosus sp. n., seriatoporus species group (Benjamin Constant, state of Amazonas, Brazil); Selenophorus obtusoides sp. n., parumpunctatus species group (near Soroa, Pinar del Rio Province, Cuba); Selenophorus iviei sp. n., nonseriatus species group (Big River, Montserrat, 16°45.719N', 62°11.335W'); Selenophorus irec sp. n., nonseriatus species group (Vernou, Guadeloupe, Lesser Antilles); and Selenophorus fabricii sp. n., opalinus species group (Cabo Rojo, Pedernales Province, Dominican Republic). This last species was misidentified as Selenophorus integer (Fabricius). In turn, that species was misidentified as Selenophorus chalybeus Dejean. Selenophorus chalybeus Dejean is a junior synonym of Selenophorus integer Fabricius, syn. n.; and Isopleurus macleayi Kirby is a junior synonym of Selenophorus pyritosus Dejean, syn. n.Biogeographically, log of land area plotted against log of number of species shows that the equilibrium theory of biogeography applies to the West Indian selenophorine fauna.Taxonomically, the selenophorine taxa of the West Indies are arranged in eight genera. The 30 species/subspecies of Selenophorus (sensu stricto) are arranged in 10 species groups. Geographically, the major sources of the selenophorines are the Bahamas, the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles. The West Indian islands probably have been invaded by 26 taxa. Of the currently extant taxa, 11 are classified as immigrant, meaning that they are represented both in the islands and on the mainland (South America or Middle America and southern Florida). Thirty three taxa are classified as precinctive, meaning that they originated where they are now living, the implication being that they have descended from immigrants, thus older in the islands than the current-day immigrants.It is postulated that the West Indian taxa represent three age groups: oldest, ancestors having reached the proto-Antilles by a landspan known as GAARlandia; a middle-age group (Neogene period), their ancestors having reached the islands by dispersal over water, between islands; and a young group of extant taxa, no older than the Pleistocene, also having reached the islands over water.
["CarabidaeHarpaliniSelenophorinew genusnew speciesclassificationbiogeographyWest Indies"]

A monograph of the Australopacific Saprininae (Coleoptera, Histeridae)
The Australopacific Saprininae, containing twelve genera and forty species, are reviewed, illustrated and keyed to genera and species. Two new genera, Australopachylopus gen. n. (New Zealand, type species Saprinus lepidulus Broun, 1881) and Iridoprinus gen. n. (Australia, type species I. myrmecophilus sp. n.) and four new species: Saprinus (Saprinus) rarussp. n. (Australia), Saprinus (Saprinus) chathamensissp. n. (Chatham Islands, New Zealand), Saprinus (Saprinus) pseudodetritussp. n. (Chatham Islands, New Zealand) and Saprinus (Saprinus) pacificussp. n. (Kiribati) are described. The Saprininae fauna of the Australopacific Region is a mixture of northern invaders that most likely arrived to the region in early Cenozoic by ‘island hopping’ from north (Hypocaccus, Hypocacculus, several Saprinus) and truly autochthonous taxa either with uncertain phylogenetic affinities (Iridoprinus gen. n., Saprinodes Lewis, 1891, Reichardtia Wenzel, 1944, Australopachylopus gen. n.), primitive Australopacific endemics (e.g. Tomogenius Marseul, 1862) or presumed relicts (several species of Saprinus Erichson, 1834). Several Saprininae taxa (Chalcionellus aeneovirens (Schmidt, 1890); (Gnathoncus rotundatus (Kugelann, 1792); G. communis (Marseul, 1862); Euspilotus (Neosaprinus) rubriculus (Marseul, 1855); Hypocaccus (Nessus) interpunctatus interpunctatus (Schmidt, 1885); Saprinus (S.) chalcites (Illiger, 1807) and Saprinus (S.) cupreus Erichson, 1834)) were introduced into the region with human activity. We report the first cases of myrmecophily (Iridoprinus myrmecophilus gen. et sp. n.) and termitophily (Saprinus rarus sp. n.) in the Saprininae from the Australopacific Region. Lectotypes and paralectotypes of the following taxa are designated herein: Saprinus amethystinus Lewis, 1900, Saprinus apricarius Erichson, 1834, Saprinus artensis Marseul, 1862, Saprinus auricollis Marseul, 1855, Saprinus australasiae Blackburn, 1903, Saprinus bistrigifrons Marseul, 1855, Saprinus certus Lewis, 1888, Saprinus communis Marseul, 1862, Saprinus cupreus Erichson, 1834, Saprinus cyanellus Marseul, 1855, Hister cyaneus Fabricius, 1775, Saprinus dentipes Marseul, 1855, Saprinus desbordesi Auzat, 1916, Saprinus gayndahensis MacLeay, 1871, Saprinus hyla Marseul, 1864, Saprinus incisisternus Marseul, 1862, Saprinus incisus Erichson, 1842, Saprinus irinus Marseul, 1862, Saprinus laetus Erichson, 1834, Saprinus lepidulus Broun, 1881, Saprinus mastersii MacLeay, 1871, Saprinus nitiduloides Fairmaire, 1883, Saprinus pedator Sharp, 1876, Saprinus pseudocyaneus White, 1846, Saprinus rubriculus Marseul, 1855, Saprinus sinae Marseul, 1862, Saprinus tasmanicus Marseul, 1855, Saprinus tyrrhenus Blackburn, 1903, Saprinus varians Schmidt, 1890, Saprinus vernulus Blackburn, 1903, Saprinus viridanus Lewis, 1899, Saprinus viridipennis Lewis, 1901, and Saprinus westraliensis Blackburn, 1903. The synonymy of Saprinus tyrrhenus Blackburn, 1903 is revoked and the species is considered as valid (stat. n.). Seven new synonymies are proposed: Saprinus gayndahensis MacLeay, 1871 = Saprinus laetus Erichson, 1834 syn. n., Saprinus pseudocyaneus White, 1846 = Saprinus laetus Erichson, 1834 syn. n., Saprinus mastersii MacLeay, 1871 = Saprinus laetus Erichson, 1834 syn. n., Saprinus dentipes Marseul, 1855 = Hypocaccus (Baeckmanniolus) gaudens (J.L. LeConte, 1851) syn. n., Hypocaccus (Hypocaccus) vernulus (Blackburn, 1903) = Hypocaccus (Hypocaccus) sinae (Marseul, 1862) syn. n., Saprinus (Saprinus) lindrothi Dahlgren, 1968 = Saprinus (Saprinus) prasinus Erichson, 1834 syn. n., and Saprinus (Saprinus) certus Lewis, 1888 = Saprinus (Saprinus) frontistrius Marseul, 1855 syn. n. The following new records are: Euspilotus (Neosaprinus) rubriculus (Marseul, 1855) (= Saprinus gnathoncoides Bickhardt, 1909) (Australia), Saprinus (Saprinus) laetus Erichson, 1834 (Lord Howe Island) and Saprinus (Saprinus) cyaneus cyaneus (Fabricius, 1775) (Lord Howe Island and Fiji).
["Histeridae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Corrigenda: Caterino M, Vásquez-Vélez L (2017) A revision of Prespelea Park (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae). ZooKeys 685: 105–130. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.685.13811
In our recent revision of the genus Prespelea Park, we neglected to explicitly designate a repository for the holotype of Prespelea enigma Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez sp. n. This omission invalided its description, and that species name is not yet available. We herein rectify this problem.
["Staphylinidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Stranding survey as a framework to investigate rare cetacean records of the north and north-eastern Brazilian coasts
Marine mammal stranding events are used as an important tool for understanding cetacean biology worldwide. Nonetheless, there are vast gaps of knowledge to be filled in for a wide range of species. Reputable information is required regarding species from large baleen whales to sperm and beaked whales, as well as pelagic dolphins. This paper describes new cetacean records from north and north-eastern Brazil, which are both the least surveyed areas regarding aquatic mammals. Regular beach surveys were conducted to recover cetacean carcasses along the coast of Pará beginning November 2005. At the coasts of the Maranhão and Piauí states, the surveys were conducted between 2003 and 2013. From 2003 to 2014, 34 strandings of cetaceans were registered. The study provides four additional species records’ in the area based on strandings (Balaenoptera borealis, Balaenoptera physalus, Peponocephala electra, and Pseudorca crassidens). A mass stranding of Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis, N = 12), the most common species for the region, was reported for the first time. The records presented herein are of special concern, since they expand the knowledge on cetaceans from the Brazilian coast. In addition, this study conducted an analysis to verify the similarity between cetacean compositions described for north and north-eastern Brazil and the southern Caribbean region. The results showed a high similarity between these regions, proving the connection with the Caribbean cetacean fauna.
["Marine animal studies overview", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

A review of the genus Lordiphosa Basden in India, with descriptions of four new species from the Himalayan region (Diptera, Drosophilidae)
All Indian species of the genus Lordiphosa Basden are reviewed, with descriptions of four new species, L. curva Fartyal & Toda, sp. n. of the denticeps species group and L. ayarpathaensis Kandpal & Singh, sp. n., L. makaibarensis Pradhan & Chatterjee, sp. n. and L. srinagarensis Sati & Fartyal, sp. n. of the nigricolor species group. Two of the new species, L. ayarpathaensis and L. makaibarensis, were found visiting flowers of Hedychium spicatum and Datura suaveolens, respectively. This is the first record of flower visitation in Lordiphosa flies. In addition, L. parantillaria (Kumar & Gupta, 1990), syn. n. is synonymized with L. antillaria (Okada, 1984). Supplementary and revised descriptions for L. antillaria and L. neokurokawai (Singh & Gupta, 1981) and a key to all Indian species of Lordiphosa are provided.
["Darjeeling"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Description of a new species of Lamellothyrea Krikken (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae) from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa)
Recent data and material obtained from northern KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) and Maputo Bay (Mozambique) have provided support for the description of a new species of the genus Lamellothyrea Krikken, 1980. The genus previously included only one species, L. descarpentriesi, with uncertain and poorly defined type locality, i.e. “Transvaal”. It is now evident that two different species are actually involved, L. descarpentriesi with currently known distribution limited to the coastal area north of Maputo, and L. isimangaliso sp. n. with a known distribution range virtually restricted to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, in north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal. The two species appear to be separated by a substantial discontinuity in southern Mozambique and can be easily separated on the basis of their clypeal structure, extent of white dorsal tomentum and shape of aedeagal parameres. Both species appear to be restricted to the coastal belt, with L. isimangaliso sp. n. occupying almost exclusively dune forest habitats. In this species, adult activity depends on rainfall and shows two peaks, one at the onset of summer and the second in autumn.
["Lamellothyrea"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Description of a new species of Alburnus Rafinesque, 1820 (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae, Leuciscinae) from the Kolpa River in the Sava River system (upper Danube drainage), with remarks on the geographical distribution of shemayas in the Danube
Alburnus sava, new species, is described from the Kolpa River. The Kolpa is a tributary of the Sava, a major tributary of the Danube River, in the Black Sea basin. Alburnus sava is distinguished from its congeners in the Danube drainage, A. mento and A. sarmaticus, by having 23−27, usually 24−26, gill rakers; the ventral keel usually completely covered by scales (scaleless part maximum 15% of the keel length); 15−16, mode 15, branched pectoral-fin rays; the length of the gill raker at the junction of the arch limbs 65−70% of the length of the opposite outer gill filament; and a relatively long lower jaw (37−40% HL or 112−130% interorbital width). Alburnus sava is a large-sized potamadromous shemaya known to occur in the entire Sava drainage. The taxonomic status of A. mento and A. sarmaticus is confirmed. Alburnus danubicus is discussed and as there are no new arguments, it is kept as a valid species. New details on the distribution of shemayas in the Danube drainage are presented.
["Freshwater and anadromous shemayas"]

The complete mitochondrial DNA sequence of the pantropical earthworm Pontoscolex corethrurus (Rhinodrilidae, Clitellata): Mitogenome characterization and phylogenetic positioning
Pontoscolex corethrurus (Müller, 1857) plays an important role in tropical soil ecosystems and has been widely used as an animal model for a large variety of ecological studies in particular due to its common presence and generally high abundance in human-disturbed tropical soils. In this study we describe the complete mitochondrial genome of the peregrine earthworm P. corethrurus. This is the first record of a mitochondrial genome within the Rhinodrilidae family. Its mitochondrial genome is 14 835 bp in length containing 37 genes (13 protein-coding genes (PCG) 2 rRNA genes and 22 tRNA genes). It has the same gene content and structure as in other sequenced earthworms but unusual among invertebrates it hasseveral overlapping open reading frames. All genes are encoded on the same strand. Most of the PCGs use ATG as the start codon except for ND3 which uses GTG as the start codon. The A+T content of the mitochondrial genome is 59.9% (31.8% A 28.1% T 14.6% G and 25.6% for C). The annotated genome sequence has been deposited in GenBank under the accession number KT988053.
["Pontoscolex"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A new species of Pristimantis from eastern Brazilian Amazonia (Anura, Craugastoridae)
In this study a new species of Pristimantis (Anura: Craugastoridae) of the P. conspicillatus species group is described. Pristimantis latro sp. n. is known only from the municipalities of Altamira, Anapu, Brasil Novo, Medicilândia, Uruará and Aveiro (Flona Tapajós, right bank of Tapajós river), in Pará state, Brazil. Morphologically, the new species distinguishes from known congeners in the group mainly by the presence of dorsal tubercles and absence of discoidal folds, smooth belly skin, as well as the presence of supernumerary tubercles on hands. The call of the new species consists of seven ascending notes, the first of which has a dominant frequency of 2635 Hz and the last 3272 Hz. Molecular analysis of the 16S mtDNA indicates a genetic distance of 8% to P. chiastonotus, its closet relative, and between 9% and 11% to populations of P. fenestratus.
["mitochondrial DNA"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Taxonomic reassessment of two subspecies of Chinese skink in Taiwan based on morphological and molecular investigations (Squamata, Scincidae)
The Chinese skink, Plestiodon chinensis (Gray, 1838), is widely distributed across continental China, Taiwan, the Korean Peninsula, and offshore islets, and consists of several subspecies. Here morphological and molecular methods have been used to reassess the taxonomic status and distributions of P. c. formosensis (Van Denburgh, 1912) and P. c. leucostictus (Hikida, 1988), which are endemic to Taiwan and Green Island (an islet off the east coast of Taiwan), respectively. It can be confirmed that the eastern Taiwanese populations of P. c. formosensis exhibit similar juvenile color patterning and genetic composition to the islet subspecies P. c. leucostictus, and are distinct from consubspecific populations in western Taiwan. Therefore, the eastern Taiwanese populations are assigned to P. c. leucostictus, and this subspecies is recognized as a distinct species, Plestiodon leucostictus (Hikida, 1988), based on their unique juvenile coloration and highly divergent DNA sequences. Our results also revealed that P. c. formosensis in western Taiwan is close to nominotypical subspecies from the continent, suggesting the necessity of a comprehensive taxonomic analysis in the future.
["Green Island"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A new species of Pnigalio (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) parasitizing Eriocrania semipurpurella alpina (Lepidoptera, Eriocraniidae) in China, with its biology and a key to Chinese known species
A new species of Eulophinae, Pnigalio eriocraniae Li & Yang, sp. n., is described and illustrated. This new species is a larval ectoparasitoid of Eriocrania semipurpurella alpina Xu (Lepidoptera, Eriocraniidae), a leaf miner in birch trees, Betula spp. (Betulaceae), in Qinghai Province, northwest China. The biology of the new species and a key to the known species from China are provided.
["Betula"]

A new cave centipede from Croatia, Eupolybothrus liburnicus sp. n., with notes on the subgenus Schizopolybothrus Verhoeff, 1934 (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
A new species of Eupolybothrus Verhoeff, 1907 discovered in caves of Velebit Mountain in Croatia is described. E. liburnicus sp. n. exhibits a few morphological differences from its most similar congeners, all of which are attributed to the subgenus Schizopolybothrus Verhoeff, 1934, and two approaches to species delimitation using the COI barcode region identify it as distinct from the closely allied E. cavernicolus Stoev & Komerički, 2013. E. spiniger (Latzel, 1888) is redescribed and a lectotype is designated for it as well as E. caesar (Verhoeff, 1899) to stabilize their respective taxonomic status. The subspecies E. acherontis wardaranus Verhoeff, 1937, previously suspected to be a synonym of E. caesar (Verhoeff, 1899), is redescribed and its taxonomy revised after the study of type material whereas the identity of E. acherontis (Verhoeff, 1900) described from a female from southwest Trebinje (Bosnia and Herzegovina) remains unknown. Type material of E. stygis (Folkmanova, 1940) is confirmed to be lost and future designation of neotypes from topotypic specimens is necessary to stabilize its taxonomy. The importance of setal arrangement on the intermediate and 14th tergites and the sexual modifications on the male 15th prefemur for species identification is discussed in the light of present findings, and a review of the species of E. (Schizopolybothrus) that display these traits is also provided.
["Biospeleology"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Two new species of Centrodora (Hymenoptera, Aphelinidae) from China, with a key to Chinese species
Two new species of Centrodora Förster, C. crassiscapa sp. n. and C. pellucida sp. n., are described from China. A key to species from China based on females is given.

A new and unusual species of Amastigogonus Brölemann, 1913 from Tasmania, Australia (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Iulomorphidae)
Amastigogonus insularis sp. n. is described from Schouten and Tasman Islands off the east coast of Tasmania, and a key is presented for the identification of males of Tasmanian Amastigogonus species. The new species differs from the 10 previously described species of Amastigogonus in having a reduced coxite process on the anterior gonopod.
["Millipede"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

A second locality for the Namib darkling beetle Onymacris brainei (Tenebrionidae, Coleoptera) and first report on its molecular phylogenetic placement
Onymacris brainei Penrith, 1984 – the most recent species of Onymacris to be described – is known only from its type locality in the Namib Desert, adjacent to the Cunene River in northern Namibia. No additional specimens are known to have been collected beyond the type series. Herein, we report on eight specimens discovered at a second site near the original locality. DNA from four beetles was used to determine the phylogenetic placement of O. brainei among congeners, based on sequence data from one nuclear (histone III) and two mitochondrial (cox1, cox2) genes. Maximum likelihood analysis identifies O. brainei as a member of the ‘white’ Onymacris clade, in which it forms a strongly supported subclade with O. bicolor and O. marginipennis. More broadly, its phylogenetic placement augments previous molecular results that revealed a sister taxon relationship between the ‘white’ Onymacris and a second genus, Physadesmia. The paraphyly of Onymacris with respect to Physadesmia highlights a need for nomenclatural change, but revision should await acquisition of genetic data for the few species outstanding in both genera.
["Adesmiini"]

A new species of Ophryotrocha (Annelida, Eunicida, Dorvilleidae) from hydrothermal vents on the Southwest Indian Ridge
Dorvilleids were collected from hydrothermal vents on the Southwest Indian Ridge by manned submersible Jiaolong. These represent a new species of Ophryotrocha that is here described as Ophryotrocha jiaolongi sp. n. This is the first dorvilleid described from vents on the Southwest Indian Ridge. It most closely resembles another vent species, Ophryotrocha akessoni Blake, 1985 from the Galapagos Rift, but can be distinguished by its antennae, palps, jaw structure. The new species has particularly distinctive mandibles, which allow it to be easily identified.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

A new species of Longicoelotes (Araneae, Agelenidae) from China, with the first description of the male of L. kulianganus (Chamberlin, 1924)
A new Longicoeletes species is described from Jiangxi Province, China: L. geei sp. n. (♂♀). In addition, the male of L. kulianganus (Chamberlin, 1924) is described for the first time. DNA barcodes of the two species are documented for future use and as proof of molecular differences between these species.

A new species of Hyalella from the High Andes of Ecuador (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Hyalellidae)
Hyalella cajasi sp. n. is described from high altitude shallow water lakes in southern Ecuador. This is the second representative of the genus recorded in the country after H. meinerti. The new species shares with nine South American species of the genus the display of a smooth, non-processiferous body, a male first uropod with a modified curved robust seta on the endopod, and six pairs of sternal gills. The new taxon can be distinguished from these species based on the presence/absence of eyes; relative length of antenna 1 with respect to antenna 2; presence/absence of short pointed robust seta distally on palp of maxilla 1; number of pappose setae proximally on medial margin of inner lobe of maxilla 2; elongation and curvature of the modified robust seta of endopod of male uropod 1; relative length of ramus of uropod 3 with respect to protopod; and armature and outline of telson, among other features. It seems to be a high-altitude endemic to the Cajas Massif in Azuay Province, being replaced in the same area at lower altitudes by H. meinerti.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Study on Tullbergiidae of Tibet, China I. Metaphorura, Mesaphorura and Prabhergia (Hexapoda, Collembola)
The Tullbergiidae of Tibet is studied for the first time and the genus Metaphorura Bagnall, 1936 is firstly recorded in China. Metaphorura motuoensis sp. n. from southeastern Tibet is described and illustrated. It is characterized by the presence of 1+1 pseudocelli on thoracic segment I, few vesicles (14 -16) on PAO, pseudocellar formula as 11/111/11111, all pseudocelli of type II, setae p4 on abdominal segment V as microsetae, weakly differentiated sensory seta p3 on abdominal segment V, absence of median process on Abd VI. In addition, Mesaphorura yosii (Rusek, 1967), Mesaphorura hylophila Rusek, 1982, and Prabhergia imadatei Tamura & Zhao, 1996 are recorded in Tibet for the first time. The type specimens of P. imadatei are re-examined and errors in the original description of chaetotaxy are corrected.
["chaetotaxy"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Updated catalogue and taxonomic notes on the Old-World scorpion genus Buthus Leach, 1815 (Scorpiones, Buthidae)
Since the publication of the ground-breaking “Catalogue of the scorpions of the world (1758–1998)” (Fet et al. 2000) the number of species in the scorpion genus Buthus Leach, 1815 has increased 10-fold, and this genus is now the fourth largest within the Buthidae, with 52 valid named species. Here we revise and update the available information regarding Buthus. A new combination is proposed: Buthus halius (C. L. Koch, 1839), comb. n. from Portugal and Spain. B. halius is removed from junior synonymy with Buthus occitanus (Amoreux, 1789), and proposed as a senior synonym of B. ibericus Lourenço & Vachon, 2004, syn. n. Moreover, following I.C.Z.N. article 23.9.2 we propose to maintain as valid B. ibericus (nomen protectum) and to consider the disued B. halius as a nomen oblitum. Buthus europaeus tridentatus Franganillo, 1918 is proposed as a junior synonym of B. occitanus (Amoreux, 1789), syn. n. Buthus sabulicola Touloun, 2012 is proposed as a junior synonym of Buthus bonito Lourenço & Geniez, 2005, syn. n. Buthus occitanus tunetanus neeli Gysin, 1969 is proposed as an informal senior synonym of Buthus tassili Lourenço, 2002, informal syn. n. Two taxa are rised to species rank, Buthus nigrovesiculosus Hirst, 1925, stat. n. and Buthus parroti Vachon, 1949, stat. n.. We further confirm the restricted distribution of B. occitanus that is confined to southeastern France and northwestern Iberian Peninsula and does not occur in North Africa. Additionally, Androctonus barbouri (Werner, 1932), comb. n. from the Agadir region of Morocco, is hereby transferred to the genus Androctonus. We summarize and provide a critical appraisal of the diagnostic characters currently in use for the genus. The catalogue section considers the names for species, subspecies and varieties that have been used for Buthus scorpions. Information about types, including collection numbers and localities are included when available. Finally, an annotated listing of synonymies and an updated bibliography are given.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

A new subspecies of sea snake, Hydrophis platurus xanthos, from Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica
We describe a distinctive new subspecies of sea snake from the occasionally anoxic inner-basin waters of Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica, based on combined data garnered between 2010 and 2017 for 154 specimens, 123 free-ranging and 31 museum-held. The yellow sea snake, Hydrophis platurus xanthos Bessesen & Galbreath, subsp. n., is diagnosed by a notably smaller body size and nearly uniform yellow coloration, which contrasts with the black and yellow striae and tail spots or bands typical of the species. Within the modest geographic range (circa 320 km2), nearly all specimens possess both diagnostic character states. Bathymetrics appear to restrict genetic flow between this allopatric population and conspecifics in the broader Eastern Pacific. In perspicuous contrast to typical H. platurus, H. p. xanthos shows no association with drift lines, and feeds at night in turbulent waters, assuming a sinusoidal ambush posture never previously reported for the species. This evolutionarily significant unit (ESU) warrants taxonomic recognition and active protection.
["Golfo Dulce"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

First report of the leaf-mining genus Antispila Hübner, [1825] from mainland China, with the description of a new species feeding on Cornus (Lepidoptera, Heliozelidae)
The genus Antispila Hübner, [1825] is newly recorded from mainland China. Antispila sinensis sp. n., the first formally named Heliozelidae species in mainland China, is described. The host plant of the new species, Cornus walteri Wangerin (Cornaceae), is widespread through east Asia and is used as a shade tree in city parks in Jinan City, where the moth causes damage to foliage. Morphological and molecular analyses distinguish A. sinensis sp. n. from its close relatives. The adult, pupa, larva, host plant, leaf-mines, and the shield of the new species are illustrated, as are male and female genitalia, venation, and larval chaetotaxy. DNA barcodes of the new species are also provided.
["Antispila"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A revision of Prespelea Park (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
We revise the genus Prespelea Park, redefining and redescribing the two previously known species, P. copelandi Park and P. quirsfeldi Park, and adding ten new species: P. parki Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. minima Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. morsei Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. divergens Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. carltoni Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. myersae Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. georgiensis Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. enigma Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., P. wagneri Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n., and P. basalis Caterino & Vásquez-Vélez, sp. n.. The genus is still only known from a relatively small area in the southern Appalachian Mountains, but the diversity is much greater than previously suspected. The new species exhibit considerable diversity in male secondary sexual characters. A preliminary phylogenetic analysis cannot conclusively resolve the polarity of eye and wing reduction across Speleobamini, but the monophyly of Park’s subgenus Fusjugama, if expanded to include all species with full-eyed and winged males, is not supported, and we therefore synonymize it with Prespeleas. str.
["Pselaphinae"]

A new species of Leiochrides from the Korean subtidal waters with notes on the taxonomic status of the genus Pseudomastus (Annelida, Capitellidae)
Leiochrides yokjidoensis sp. n., collected from the sublittoral muddy bottom in southern Korea, is described as a new species. The taxonomic status of the monospecific genus Pseudomastus has been a subject of controversy for many years, as its characteristics overlap those given in recent generic definitions of Leiochrides. The results of a comprehensive review and comparison regarding the two genera, based on previous records showed minor differences. In this study, a detailed description of L. yokjidoensis sp. n. is given and a comparison with closely related species is tabulated and discussed.The taxonomic status of Pseudomastus is discussed and the genus placed in synonymy with Leiochrides.
["Korea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new species of deep-sea sponge-associated shrimp from the North-West Pacific (Decapoda, Stenopodidea, Spongicolidae)
A new species of the deep-sea spongicolid genus Spongicoloides Hansen, 1908 is described and illustrated based on material from the northwestern Pacific. Spongicoloides weijiaensis sp. n. was found inside a hexactinellid sponge, Euplectella sp., sampled by the Chinese manned submersible “Jiaolong” at depths of 2279 m near the Weijia Guyot, in the Magellan Seamount Chain. The new species can be distinguished from all congeneric species by several morphological features, involving gill formula, spination of the carapace, antennal scale, third pereiopod, telson and uropod, posteroventral teeth of the pleura, and dactyli of the fourth and fifth pereiopods. An identification key to the Pacific species of Spongicoloides is provided.
["Hexactinellida"]

Bryophryne phuyuhampatu sp. n., a new species of Cusco Andes frog from the cloud forest of the eastern slopes of the Peruvian Andes (Amphibia, Anura, Craugastoridae)
A new species of Bryophryne from the humid montane forest of the Department of Cusco, Peru, is described. Specimens were collected at 2795–2850 m a.s.l. in the Área de Conservación Privada Ukumari Llaqta, Quispillomayo valley, in the province of Paucartambo. The new species is readily distinguished from all other species of Bryophryne by having green coloration on dorsum, and blue flecks on flanks and ventral parts. Specimens are characterized by lacking a distinct tympanic annulus, tympanic membrane, and dentigerous processes of vomers, and by having dorsal skin shagreen, discontinuous dorsolateral folds, skin tuberculate on flanks, skin areolate on ventral surfaces of the body, and fingers and toes without lateral fringes or webbing. The new species has a snout–vent length of 14.2–16.9 mm in three males and 22.2–22.6 mm in two females, and is smaller than all other congeneric species except for B. abramalagae. Generic allocation is supported by low genetic distances of the 16S mitochondrial gene and morphological similarity with other species of Bryophryne, and geographic distribution. Bryophryne phuyuhampatu sp. n. is only known from the type locality, a cloud forest along the Quispillomayo River in the upper Nusiniscato watershed.
["leaf litter amphibian"]

Three new species of Heteromysis (Mysida, Mysidae, Heteromysini) from the Cape Peninsula, South Africa, with first documentation of a mysid-cephalopod association
Faunistic studies in sublittoral and littoral marine habitats on the Cape Peninsula, South Africa, have yielded three new species belonging to the genus Heteromysis, subgenus Heteromysis: H. cancelli sp. n. associated with the diogenid hermit crab Cancellus macrothrix Stebbing, 1924, and H. fosteri sp. n. extracted from ‘empty’ urchin and gastropod shells. The first documented mysid-cephalopod association is reported for H. octopodis sp. n. which was found in dens occupied by Octopus vulgaris Cuvier, 1797, but was also captured from tide pools. The three new species differ from previously known E. Atlantic species, among other characters, by a single spine on the endopods of uropods in combination with large cornea and absence of median sternal processes on thoracic somites. They are also characterized by a white stripe along the dorso-lateral terminal margin of the eyestalks in living specimens. The new species appear quite similar to each other, but are distinguished by different depths of the telson cleft, different distributions of spines on the lateral margins of the telson, different numbers of segments on thoracic endopod 4, and by differently modified setae on the carpus of the third thoracic endopod, as well as on the carpopropodus of the fourth endopod. An updated key to the species of Heteromysis known from the E. Atlantic is given.
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Three new species and one new subspecies of Depressariinae (Lepidoptera) from Europe
The species Depressaria albarracinella Corley, sp. n., Agonopterix carduncelli Corley, sp. n. and Agonopterix pseudoferulae Buchner & Junnilainen, sp. n. and the subspecies Depressaria saharae Gastón & Vives ssp. tabelli Buchner, ssp. n. are described. Depressaria albarracinella was first found in Spain in 1969 and recognised as apparently new but the specimens in NHMUK have remained undescribed. Additional Spanish material has been located in ZMUC and other collections and three specimens have been found from Greece. Agonopterix carduncelli. A single male of an unidentified Agonopterix of the pallorella group was found in Algarve, Portugal in 2010. A search for larvae in March 2011 was successful and one male and one female were reared from Carthamus caeruleus. Additional specimens of the new species have been located in collections from Spain, Greece and Morocco. Agonopterix pseudoferulae. A specimen from Greece with the name Agonopterix ferulae (Zeller, 1847) found in the Klimesch collection in ZSM had forewing markings which suggested that it might be a different species. Further specimens from Italy and Greece have been examined, among them two reared from Elaeoselinum asclepium (Apiaceae). Both genitalia and barcode show that this is an undescribed species. Depressaria saharae Gastón & Vives, 2017 was described very recently (Gastón and Vives 2017) from northern Spain with a brief description, and figures of two males and male genitalia. Here the new species is redescribed, and additional data on distribution and relationships of the new species added. The opportunity is also taken to show that Canary Islands specimens with the same male genitalia should be treated as a new subspecies D. saharae ssp. tabelli Buchner, ssp. n.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

The Tabanidae of the Mitaraka expedition, with an updated check list of French Guiana (Diptera)
This paper documents the horse fly fauna collected in lowland rainforest in the southwesternmost part of French Guiana (Mitaraka). During this “Our Planet Revisited” survey nine tabanid species were recorded from French Guiana for the first time: Chrysops ecuadorensis Lutz, C. incisus Macquart, Catachlorops amazonicus Henriques & Gorayeb, Chlorotabanus flagellatus Krolow & Henriques, Cryptoylus cauri Stone, Phaeotabanus phaeopterus Fairchild, Philipotabanus stigmaticalis (Kröber), Stypommisa captiroptera (Kröber) and Tabanus amapaensis Fairchild. An updated check list of Tabanidae of French Guiana is presented, including 79 species and one unidentified Chrysops.
["Amazon basin"]
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Morphological and molecular diversity of Lake Baikal candonid ostracods, with description of a new genus
Uncoupling between molecular and morphological evolution is common in many animal and plant lineages. This is especially frequent among groups living in ancient deep lakes, because these ecosystems promote rapid morphological diversification, and has already been demonstrated for Tanganyika cychlid fishes and Baikal amphipods. Ostracods are also very diverse in these ecosystems, with 107 candonid species described so far from Baikal, majority of them in the genera Candona Baird, 1845 and Pseudocandona Kaufmann, 1900. Here we study their morphological and molecular diversity based on four genes (two nuclear and two mitochondrial), 10 species from the lake, and 28 other species from around the world. The results of our phylogenetic analysis based on a concatenated data set, along with sequence diversity, support only two genetic lineages in the lake and indicate that a majority of the Baikal Candona and Pseudocandona species should be excluded from these genera. We describe a new genus, Mazepovacandona gen. n., to include five Baikal species, all redescribed here. We also amend the diagnosis for the endemic genus Baicalocandona Mazepova, 1972 and redescribe two species. Our study confirms an exceptional morphological diversity of Lake Baikal candonids and shows that both Baikal lineages are closely related to Candona, but only distantly to Pseudocandona.
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Notes on the Stenus cirrus group of Zhejiang, East China, with descriptions of two new species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
Two new Stenus species of the cirrus group collected from Zhejiang Province, East China, are described, S. wuyanlingus Liu, Tang & Luo, sp. n., S. yuyimingi Liu, Tang & Luo, sp. n. and a new distributional locality for S. ovalis Tang, Li & Zhao, 2005 was discovered. The diagnostic characters of the new species are illustrated, and a key to species of the group from Zhejiang Province is provided.

New species of Southeast Asian Dwarf Tarantula from Thailand: Phlogiellus Pocock, 1897 (Theraphosidae, Selenocosmiinae)
A new record of the tarantula genus Phlogiellus Pocock, 1897 from Thailand is described. Distributional data, natural history, morphological characters, and illustrations of male and female are provided. The Thai specimens belong to a new species, Phlogiellus longipalpus sp. n. The diagnosis of the new species and related species are discussed.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Pectinaria (Annelida, Pectinariidae), with a key to pectinariids from the South China Sea
Pectinariidae is a family of polychaetes building unique ice-cream cone shaped sandy tubes. Pectinaria torquata sp. n. (Pectinariidae) is described from the coastal waters of the northern South China Sea. This new species can be distinguished from all other 25 recognized species in the genus by a combination of characters: 16 chaetigers; 26–32 cirri in the cephalic veil; 11–12 pairs of cephalic spines; uncini with major teeth arranged in two rows, each with 7–8 major teeth; presence of a dorsal posterior lobe on segments 2 and 20; 4–5 pairs of curved scaphal hooks; and an anal flap with a crenulated margin. A key to all recognized pectinariids in the South China Sea is provided.
["invertebrate"]

African Neotermes: redescriptions of imago and soldier castes of N. aburiensis and N. agilis (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae)
We redescribe the winged imagos and soldiers of two equatorial African species, Neotermes aburiensis Sjöstedt and N. agilis (Sjöstedt) and describe their unique character attributes. The imago of N. aburiensis is adorned with unique spatulate-pointed setae. The soldier of N. aburiensis is unique among Neotermes in possessing a phragmotic forehead. The imago of N. agilis is small and unique among Neotermes in having complete coalescence of radial sector and median veins in the forewing while the soldier of N. agilis has a broad pronotum.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new orthopteran-parasitizing horsehair worm, Acutogordius taiwanensis sp. n., with a redescription of Chordodes formosanus and novel host records from Taiwan (Nematomorpha, Gordiida)
A description of a new species of horsehair worm, Acutogordius taiwanensis sp. n., a redescription of Chordodes formosanus, and novel host records for the latter are provided. Acutogordius taiwanensis sp. n. is morphologically similar to A. protectus with moderately flat areoles on its tail tips, but is distinguishable by small mid-body ornamentations. Despite the distinct differences in the post-cloacal crescents between 14 male samples, their conspecific status, along with that of nine female samples, was upheld by a phylogenetic comparison of partial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences. Chordodes formosanus is another common horsehair worm species in Taiwan, which was previously believed to specifically parasitize Hierodula mantids. However, in this study, five C. formosanus were observed emerging from an Acromantis mantid, and two long-horned grasshopper hosts (Leptoteratura sp. and Holochlora japonica). These five worms showed high degrees of similarity in COI sequences and morphology, but one of these individuals bore abnormal crowned areoles, which has never been observed in C. formosanus, and may be attributed to the incomplete development of this particular individual.
["Acutogordius"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of Aleuromarginatus Corbett, 1935 with a key and checklist of Chinese species (Hemiptera, Aleyrodidae)
A new whitefly species, Aleuromarginatus dielsianae Wang & Xu, sp. n. collected from Millettia dielsiana Harms (Rosales: Fabaceae) in Jiangshan (28°40'N, 118°40'E, 512 m) and Xinchang (29°22'N, 120°46'E, 308 m), Zhejiang, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is characterized by the dark brown lateral margin area and a pair of longitudinal furrows extending from the cephalothorax to the vasiform orifice. The submargin has an elongate-oval fold at the base of each marginal tooth and with 3-4 rows of irregular shaped papillae, nine pairs submedian setae and 13 pairs submarginal setae. Thoracic and caudal tracheal folds and pores discernible. An identification key and checklist of species of Aleuromarginatus known from China are provided.
["Aleyrodidae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Systematics and biology of Cotesia typhae sp. n. (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae), a potential biological control agent against the noctuid Mediterranean corn borer, Sesamia nonagrioides
Many parasitoid species are subjected to strong selective pressures from their host, and their adaptive response may result in the formation of genetically differentiated populations, called host races. When environmental factors and reproduction traits prevent gene flow, host races become distinct species. Such a process has recently been documented within the Cotesia flavipes species complex, all of which are larval parasitoids of moth species whose larvae are stem borers of Poales. A previous study on the African species C. sesamiae, incorporating molecular, ecological and biological data on various samples, showed that a particular population could be considered as a distinct species, because it was specialized at both host (Sesamia nonagrioides) and plant (Typha domingensis) levels, and reproductively isolated from other C. sesamiae. Due to its potential for the biological control of S. nonagrioides, a serious corn pest in Mediterranean countries and even in Iran, we describe here Cotesia typhae Fernandez-Triana sp. n. The new species is characterized on the basis of morphological, molecular, ecological and geographical data, which proved to be useful for future collection and rapid identification of the species within the species complex. Fecundity traits and parasitism success on African and European S. nonagrioides populations, estimated by laboratory studies, are also included.
["Cotesia"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of the genus Capoeta Valenciennes, 1842 from the Caspian Sea basin in Iran (Teleostei, Cyprinidae)
A new species of algae-scraping cyprinid of the genus Capoeta Valenciennes, 1842 is described from the Kheyroud River, located in the southern part of the Caspian Sea basin in Iran. The species differs from other members of this genus by a combination of the following characters: one pair of barbels; predorsal length equal to postdorsal length; maxillary barbel slightly smaller than eye’s horizontal diameter and reach to posterior margin of orbit; intranasal length slightly shorter than snout length; lateral line with 46–54 scales; 7–9 scales between dorsal-fin origin and lateral line, and 6–7 scales between anal-fin origin and lateral line.
["Algae-scraping cyprinid"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Diversity and biogeography of land snails (Mollusca, Gastropoda) in the limestone hills of Perak, Peninsular Malaysia
Limestone hills are now gaining global conservation attention as hotspots for short-range endemic species. Levels of land snail endemism can be high at limestone hills, especially at hill clusters that are geographically isolated. In the State of Perak, Peninsular Malaysia, limestone hills have been opportunistically surveyed for land snails in the past, but the majority have yet to be surveyed. To address this knowledge gap, we systematically surveyed the terrestrial malacofauna of 12 limestone hills that, based on our opinion, are a representation of the limestone land snail assemblages within the State. Our inventory yielded high sampling completeness (>85%). We found 122 species of land snails, of which 34 species were unique to one of the surveyed hills. We identified 30 species that are potentially new to science. The number of land snail species recorded at each hill ranged between 39 and 63 species. Four of the sampled limestone hills namely, Prk 01 G. Tempurung, Prk 55 G. Pondok, Prk 47 Kanthan, and Prk 64 Bt Kepala Gajah, have high levels of species richness and unique species, representing 91% of the total species recorded in this study. We identified two clusters of limestone hills in central Perak with distinct differences in land snail species composition – a northern hill cluster on elevated granite bedrock and southern hill cluster in a low-lying valley surrounded by alluvial soils. As limestone hills continue to be quarried to meet the cement demand, the four identified limestone hills, along with other hills from the two clusters, warrant urgent conservation attention in order to maintain high species diversity within Perak’s terrestrial malacofauna.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

The subgenus Monotarsobius in the Iberian Peninsula with a description of a new pseudo-cryptic species from Northern Spain revealed by an integrative revision of Lithobius crassipes L. Koch, 1862 (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
The widespread European centipede species Lithobius (Monotarsobius) crassipes L. Koch, 1862 was revised using an integrative approach incorporating sequence data and morphology. The partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcoding gene was amplified and sequenced for 21 individuals from northern Spain, France and Germany as well as for individuals of three other species of the subgenus Monotarsobius Verhoeff, 1905. The dataset was used for molecular phylogenetic analysis and genetic distance determination. In addition, Monotarsobius specimens from more than 100 localities in northern Spain, France, and Germany were morphologically investigated. Both morphological and molecular data indicate that specimens from the Navarre and Gipuzkoa provinces, northern Spain, represent a distinct pseudo-cryptic species, only differing in some minor characters from L. crassipes. The new species L. (Monotarsobius) crassipesoidessp. n. is described and compared to L. crassipes in detail using morphology and morphometric statistics for body, head, and antennae length, number of ocelli and coxal pores, as well as the starting leg for legpair spines Vmt and DaP. The Iberian and European records of L. crassipes are discussed. The subspecies L. crassipes morenoi Garcia Ruiz, 2014 from Southern Spain is elevated to species as L. morenoi stat. n. A checklist, distribution map and key to all five species of Monotarsobius of the Iberian Peninsula are presented.

Taxonomic revision of imitating carpenter ants, Camponotus subgenus Myrmopytia (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) of Madagascar, using morphometry and qualitative traits
The ant genus Camponotus (Mayr, 1861) is one of the most abundant and species rich ant genera in the Malagasy zoogeographical region. Although this group is commonly encountered, its taxonomy is far from complete. Here, we clarify the taxonomy of the Malagasy-endemic Camponotus subgenus Myrmopytia (Emery, 1920). Species delimitation was based on traditional morphological characters and multivariate morphometric analyses, including exploratory Nest Centroid clustering and confirmatory cross-validated Linear Discriminant Analysis. Four species are recognized: Camponotus imitator (Forel, 1891), Camponotus jodina sp. n., Camponotus karaha sp. n., and Camponotus longicollis sp. n. All four species appear to mimic co-occurring Aphaenogaster species. A diagnosis of the subgenus Myrmopytia, species descriptions, an identification key based on minor and major subcastes of workers, and the known geographical distribution of each species are provided.
["Malagasy region"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A review of the Cercyon Leach (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Sphaeridiinae) of the Greater Antilles
The representatives of the genus Cercyon Leach occurring in the Greater Antilles are reviewed. Ten species are recorded, of which five are described here as new: C. gimmeli sp. n. (Dominican Republic), C. armatipenis sp. n. (Dominican Republic), C. taino sp. n. (Dominican Republic), C. sklodowskae sp. n. (Jamaica) and C. spiniventris sp. n. (Dominican Republic). Diagnoses and detailed distributional data are also provided for C. floridanus Horn, 1890 (distributed in southeastern United States of America and Cayman Islands), C. insularis Chevrolat, 1863 (endemic to the Antilles) C. praetextatus (Say, 1825) (widely distributed in the New World incl. Greater Antilles), C. quisquilius (Linnaeus, 1761) (an adventive species of Paleartic origin) and C. nigriceps (Marshall, 1802) (an adventive species probably of Oriental origin). Cercyon armatipenis, C. gimmeli, C. taino form a group of closely related species only distinguishable by male genitalia and DNA sequences. A key to the Great Antillean Cercyon is provided and important diagnostic characters are illustrated. The larvae of C. insularis and C. taino were associated with adults using COI barcode sequences, illustrated and diagnosed. Full occurrence data, additional images and COI barcode sequences were submitted to open access on-line depositories in an effort to provide access to complete data.
["Megasternini"]

Demosponge diversity from North Sulawesi, with the description of six new species
Sponges are key components of the benthic assemblages and play an important functional role in many ecosystems, especially in coral reefs. The Indonesian coral reefs, located within the so-called “coral triangle”, are among the richest in the world. However, the knowledge of the diversity of sponges and several other marine taxa is far from being complete in the area. In spite of this great biodiversity, most of the information on Indonesian sponges is scattered in old and fragmented literature and comprehensive data about their diversity are still lacking. In this paper, we report the presence of 94 species recorded during different research campaigns mainly from the Marine Park of Bunaken, North Sulawesi. Six species are new for science and seven represent new records for the area. Several others are very poorly known species, sometimes recorded for the second time after their description. For most species, besides field data and detailed descriptions, pictures in vivo are included. Moreover, two new symbiotic sponge associations are described. This work aims to increase the basic knowledge of Indonesian sponge diversity as a prerequisite for monitoring and conservation of this valuable taxon.
["associations"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

A new species of Microcharon from marine interstitial waters, Shizuoka, Japan (Isopoda, Lepidocharontidae)
A new species of Microcharon Karaman, 1934 (Asellota: Lepidocharontidae) is described from Miho-Uchihama beach, Shizuoka, Japan. Microcharon tanakai sp. n. differs from its congeners by having nine simple, five penicillate setae on antennal article 6; one simple distal seta on article 1 of the mandibular palp and having the apical lobe of male pleopod 1 convex, rounded, armed with seven setae. A key to Asian species of the genus and 16S rRNA of the new species are provided.
["interstitial"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Search for mesophotic octocorals (Cnidaria, Anthozoa) and their phylogeny: I. A new sclerite-free genus from Eilat, northern Red Sea
This communication describes a new octocoral, Altumia delicata gen. n. & sp. n. (Octocorallia: Clavulariidae), from mesophotic reefs of Eilat (northern Gulf of Aqaba, Red Sea). This species lives on dead antipatharian colonies and on artificial substrates. It has been recorded from deeper than 60 m down to 140 m and is thus considered to be a lower mesophotic octocoral. It has no sclerites and features no symbiotic zooxanthellae. The new genus is compared to other known sclerite-free octocorals. Molecular phylogenetic analyses place it in a clade with members of families Clavulariidae and Acanthoaxiidae, and for now we assign it to the former, based on colony morphology. The polyphyletic family Clavulariidae is, however, in need of a thorough revision once the morphological distinctions among its phylogenetically distinct clades are better understood.
["Octocorallia"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

An elusive Neotropical giant, Hondurantemna chespiritoi gen. n. & sp. n. (Antemninae, Mantidae): a new lineage of mantises exhibiting an ontogenetic change in cryptic strategy
We present the description of a new genus and new species of praying mantis, Hondurantemna chespiritoi gen. n. & sp. n. This species of cryptic mantis, collected in National parks in Mexico and Honduras, remained unknown despite its considerable body size. Based on a phylogenetic analysis with molecular data and traditional morphological analysis, we place this new genus within Antemninae, a monotypic Mantidae subfamily. We update the subfamily concept for Antemninae and provide a key to the two genera. We describe the external morphology of immatures and adults of the new species as well as the genital complexes of both sexes and the ootheca of Antemna rapax. The observed morphological changes between immature and adult females suggests that the selection for an alternate strategy for crypsis is a response to size increase of the abdomen during development. Immatures exploit a stick/branch habitat based on their morphological appearance while adult females appear as a leaf to disguise the profile of the body.
["Mantodea"]

A new, morphologically cryptic bush-cricket discovered on the basis of its song in the Carpathian Mountains (Insecta, Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae)
A new, morphologically cryptic species of phaneropterine bush-crickets is described from the grasslands of the Romanian Eastern Carpathians. Despite the morphological and acoustic similarities with the recently described Isophya nagyi Szövényi, Puskás & Orci, I. bucovinensis sp. n. is characterized by a peculiar male calling song, with faster syllable repetition rate (160–220 syllables per minute, at 22–27°C) and less complex syllable structure (composed of only two elements instead of three observable in I. nagyi). The morphological description of the new species is supplemented with an oscillographic and spectrographic analysis of the male calling song and male–female pair-forming acoustic duet. An acoustic signal-based identification key is provided for all the presently known species of the Isophya camptoxypha species group, including the new species.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Description of the immature stages of Larinus vulpes and notes on its biology (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Lixinae)
Mature larva and pupa of Larinus vulpes (Olivier, 1807) (Curculionidae: Lixinae: Lixini) are morphologically described for the first time and compared with known larvae and pupae of other Larinus species. Very high counts of larval body setae (pronotum with more than 25 setae and postdorsum on meso- and metathorax and also on abdominal segments I–VII with more than 12 setae) are characteristic features of the nominotypical subgenus Larinus. The biology of the species was studied in Ukraine. Echinops ruthenicus and E. sphaerocephalus were identified as host plants of both larvae and adults of this weevil based on the present research in Ukraine, which shows probably oligophagous. Overwintering beetles emerged at the end of May or earlier, then feeding and mating on the host plants. The highest level of adult activity was observed at the end of June. Larvae were endophagous within the flower heads. In July and August, the larvae pupated within inflorescences in a pupation cell. Adults exited the cells at the end of August and did not hibernate on the host plants. Sometimes, larvae and imagines of a new generation were found outside the flower heads in chambers constructed on the stems.
["Asteraceae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

The genus Apodrosus Marshall, 1922 in Cuba (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae, Polydrusini)
The genus Apodrosus Marshall is newly recorded for, and revised for Cuba. Nine new species are recognized as follows: Apodrosus alberti (type locality, Granma, Parque Nacional Pico Turquino), A. alternatus (type locality, Guantánamo, El Yunque), A. franklyni (type locality, Cienfuegos, Parque Nacional Pico San Juan), A. griseus (type locality, Santiago de Cuba, Siboney-Jutici Ecological Reserve), A. mensurensis (type locality, Holguin, Parque Nacional La Mensura-Piloto), A. pseudoalternatus (type locality, Matanzas, Varahicacos), A. beckeli (type locality, Guantánamo, 8 km W. Imias), A. sandersoni (type locality, Guantánamo, Loma Lafarola), and A. zayasi (type locality, Cienfuegos, Parque Nacional Pico San Juan). A key for their identification, descriptions, summaries of natural history information and data on distributions are presented. A molecular phylogeny based on 11 species of Apodrosus from Cuba, Hispaniola and Puerto Rico is reconstructed. A sister group relationship between Polydrusus and Apodrosus is recovered with a limited sampling of the former genus. The monophyly of Apodrosus is recovered with strong support. Cuban Apodrosus are not monophyletic. Five of the six sampled Cuban species form a clade, sister to an undescribed Apodrosus species from the Dominican Republic; and, Apodrosus alternatus is sister to A. quisqueyanus Girón & Franz, 2010, a species from the Dominican Republic. Biogeographic implications for Cuban species are discussed in light of the phylogeny.

A new species of the genus Parachemmis Chickering, 1937 from Colombia (Araneae, Corinnidae, Corinninae)
The spider genus Parachemmis Chickering, 1937 (Araneae: Corinnidae: Corinninae) is reported from Colombia for the first time. Parachemmis julioblancoi sp. n. Martinez-G & Villarreal is described and illustrated from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Magdalena department. The exclusive morphology of the short and apically truncated retrolateral tibial apophysis and club-like tegular laminar process of the male palp indicates that the specimens described herein belong to a new species of Parachemmis. A map of the distribution of species in the genus is included.
["Dionycha"]

Erhaia Davis & Kuo (Gastropoda, Rissooidea, Amnicolidae) also in Bhutan
The occurrence of at least one species of Erhaia in Bhutan, viz. Erhaia wangchuki sp. n., is confirmed by DNA sequencing. A second unnamed species from Bhutan, that might be congeneric, is known from only a single shell. According to the molecular analysis, E. wangchuki is most closely related to a still undescribed Erhaia species from China. These two species together with E. jianouensis and Akiyoshia kobayashii, both also from China, form a well supported clade. Awaiting additional molecular data, the apparent inconsistency regarding Erhaia versus Akiyoshia is not dealt with here. The extant true sister species of E. wangchuki could be among the four SE Himalayan species from Bhutan and Nepal that are classified with Erhaia on the basis of conchological data only.
["Erhaia"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

New and interesting Orthoptera from the Arabian Peninsula and Socotra
This paper reports on some interesting taxa recently found in the Arabian Peninsula and the island of Socotra. Among them is a new species of brachypterous grasshopper Sphodromerus carapezzanus sp. n. (Acrididae: Calliptaminae), described from an isolated area in Dhofar (Oman). A female Heteracris hemiptera (Uvarov, 1935) (Acrididae: Eyprepocnemidinae) is reported, with morphological characters which do not fully comply with those of any known subspecies. Two species, hitherto rarely documented, are also reported, Phaneroptila insularis Uvarov, 1957 (Tettigoniidae: Phaneropterinae) from Socotra and Cataloipus thomasi Uvarov, 1933 (Acrididae: Eyprepocnemidinae) from Oman. Pycnodictya dentata Krauss, 1902 (Acrididae: Oedipodinae) is reported from Saudi Arabia, constituting a new record for the country.
["new records"]
["Pharmacological Effects of Medicinal Plants", "African history and culture analysis", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

A new species of psallopinous plant bug from the Malay Peninsula (Heteroptera, Miridae, Psallopinae)
The paper presents description and illustrations of a new peculiar species from the genus Psallops, P. coloratus sp. n. from Southeast Asia (Singapore). Photographs, line drawings of the general habitus and a short comparison with a species from Thailand are provided.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Two new species of Fluminicola (Caenogastropoda, Lithoglyphidae) from southwest Oregon, USA, and a range extension for F. multifarius
We describe two new species of pebblesnails (Lithoglyphidae: Fluminicola) from southwest Oregon based on morphologic and mitochondrial DNA (COI, cytB) evidence. Fluminicola umpquaensis sp. n., which had been traditionally identified as F. virens prior to the recent restriction of the latter to the lower Columbia River drainage, lives in lotic habitats in the Umpqua River basin. This species is readily distinguished from closely related F. gustafsoni and F. virens by shell and anatomical characters, and by its mtDNA sequences (divergence >3.6% for both genes). Fluminicola fresti sp. n. ranges among lotic habitats in the North Umpqua River basin, and in the upper Rogue River drainage north of Little Butte Creek. This species differs from other congeners by >9.1% for both genes and is distinguished from closely similar and geographically proximal F. multifarius by several anatomical characters. Additionally, new records are provided for F. multifarius from the upper Rogue River basin south of Little Butte Creek, which extend the geographic range of this species about 80 km northward from the Sacramento River headwater region. This continues a recent series of taxonomic papers on the poorly known and little studied pebblesnail fauna of the vast Pacific watershed from northern California to southern British Columbia.
["Caenogastropoda"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

An update on the distribution and nomenclature of fleas (Order Siphonaptera) of bats (Order Chiroptera) and rodents (Order Rodentia) from La Rioja Province, Argentina
The mammalian and flea fauna of La Rioja Province is one of the least known from northwestern Argentina. In this study, the distribution and nomenclature of 13 species of fleas of bats and rodents from La Rioja Province are updated. Four species of fleas are recorded for the first time in La Rioja Province including a new record for northwestern Argentina, and two new flea-host associations. An identification key and distribution map are included for all known species of Siphonaptera of bats and rodents from La Rioja Province, Argentina.
["Distribution map"]
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Zoonotic diseases and public health"]

Renius cornutus, a new genus and species of Chilocorini from Tibet, China (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
A new monotypic genus of Chilocorini, Renius Li & Wang, gen. n., with a new species R. cornutus Li et Wang, sp. n. is described from Tibet, China. All diagnostic features are illustrated. The relationships with other genera of Chilocorini are discussed and a key to Chinese genera of Chilocorini is provided.

Species delimitation of the Hyphydrus ovatus complex in western Palaearctic with an update of species distributions (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
The species status of Hyphydrus anatolicus Guignot, 1957 and H. sanctus Sharp, 1882, previously often confused with the widespread H. ovatus (Linnaeus, 1760), are tested with molecular and morphological characters. Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (CO1) was sequenced for 32 specimens of all three species. Gene-trees were inferred with parsimony, time-free bayesian and strict clock bayesian analyses. The GMYC model was used to estimate species limits. All three species were reciprocally monophyletic with CO1 and highly supported. The GMYC species delimitation analysis unequivocally delimited the three species with no other than the three species solution included in the confidence interval. A likelihood ratio test rejected the one-species null model. Important morphological characters distinguishing the species are provided and illustrated. New distributional data are given for the following species: Hyphydrus anatolicus from Slovakia and Ukraine, and H. aubei Ganglbauer, 1891, and H. sanctus from Turkey.
["Dytiscidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The identity of three South American “smiliine” treehoppers (Hemiptera, Membracidae) and related taxonomic changes, including description of a new genus in Thuridini
Based on examination of holotypes or interpretation of original descriptions, four taxonomic changes are proposed for South American species erroneously placed in the tribe Smiliini: Flynnia, gen. n. (Thuridini) and F. fascipennis (Funkhouser), comb. n. from Bolivia; Antianthe atromarginata (Goding), comb. n. from Ecuador; Amastris pilosa (Funkhouser), comb. n. from Peru; and Thelia planeflava Fairmaire from Brazil to Polyglyptiniincertae sedis, new placement.
["New genus"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of Notodiaptomus from the Amazon basin (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae)
A new Diaptomidae species is presented from the Neotropical region. It was found in two Amazonian lakes, Ressaca and Arapujá, both in Pará State, Brazil. The lakes are 400 km apart and threatened by the building of reservoirs for hydropower generation and pollution by human settlements. The new species resembles N. paraensis Dussart & Robertson, 1984, but it can be distinguished from this species and other congeners in having a special process on the fifth leg basis of the male, by the place of insertion of lateral spine in the last segment of right P5 of male, the shape and relationship between length and width of segments of male and female P5 exopodite 2 with stout inner process bearing short setules and outer small spine, exopodite 3, with two terminal setae, outer smaller; endopodite 1-segmented with one subterminal seta and oblique comb of spinules, the presence of a line of dorsal spinules at the distal margin of thoracic somites in both sexes. A brief comparison with other Notodiaptomus species is presented in the discussion.
["Amazonian Region"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

A new diplommatinid genus and two new species from the Philippines (Gastropoda, Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoroidea)
A new diplommatinid genus, Luzonocoptis Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, gen. n. is erected for two new species, Luzonocoptis antenna Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n. and L. angulata Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n. Both species inhabit the northeastern part of Luzon Island, Philippines. The genus Luzonocoptis gen. n. is mostly characterized by a very slender shell with 14–18 whorls, a strongly expanded peristome, an interrupted, weak columellar lamella, the absence of any additional plicae or lamellae, and a rachidian tooth having five cusps.
["Land snail"]

The advertisement call and comments on the distribution of Eleutherodactylus bilineatus Bokermann, 1975, an endemic frog of Bahia State, Brazil (Amphibia, Anura)
Advertisement calls can be used to aid solving taxonomic problems and understanding the evolution of certain groups. In this study, the advertisement call of Eleutherodactylus bilineatus is described. It is composed by two different notes with a total duration of 0.529–4.241 seconds and dominant frequency of 1.72–3.45 kHz. Additionally, new data is provided on the geographical distribution of Eleutherodactylus bilineatus and the most inland record for this species.
["Atlantic Forest"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Revision of the genus Reinmara Schaus, 1928 (Lepidoptera, Mimallonoidea, Mimallonidae) with the descriptions of four new species from South America
The mimallonid genus Reinmara Schaus, 1928 is revised. The three previously described species, R. enthona (Schaus, 1905), R. minasa Schaus, 1928, and R. wolfei Herbin & C. Mielke, 2014 are redescribed and the females of each are described and figured for the first time. Additionally, we describe four new species, two Andean: R. andensis sp. n. and R. occidentalis sp. n., and two Brazilian: R. atlantica sp. n. and R. ignea sp. n.. The new species R. ignea and R. atlantica are likely of conservation concern due to their rarity in collections and their apparent endemism to an endangered biome, the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.
["Bolivia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Nomenclatural checklist for Acromegalomma species (Annelida, Sabellidae), a nomen novum replacement for the junior homonym Megalomma Johansson, 1926
Acromegalomma, nomen novum, is introduced as a replacement name for the polychaete genus Megalomma Johansson, 1926 (Annelida, Sabellidae), preoccupied by Megalomma Westwood, 1842 (Insecta, Coleoptera, Carabidae). The historical background of the homonymy and a full list with 36 new combinations in the new genus are included, while two species are considered as species inquirenda.
["Fan worms"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First record of Biromiris from the Oriental region, with a new species from Philippines (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae, Phylinae)
The unique genus Biromiris Schuh is recognized from the Oriental region for the first time, with the description of a new species, Biromiris tomokunii sp. n., from the Philippines. The new species is documented with photographic images of the dorsal habitus and male genital structures. A key to all known species of Biromiris is provided.
["Biromiris"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Conchological differentiation and genital anatomy of Nepalese Glessulinae (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Subulinidae), with descriptions of six new species
Eleven species of Glessulinae belonging to the genera Glessula Martens, 1860 (three species) and Rishetia Godwin-Austen, 1920 (eight species) are reported from Nepal, six of which are new to science and are described here, viz., G. tamakoshi Budha & Backeljau, sp. n., R. kathmandica Budha & Backeljau, sp. n., R. nagarjunensis Budha & Naggs, sp. n., R. rishikeshi Budha & Naggs, sp. n., R. subulata Budha & Naggs and R. tribhuvana Budha, sp. n. and two are new records for Nepal viz. G. cf. hebetata and R. cf. mastersi. The relation between the shell height-width ratio and the structure of the proximal part of the male reproductive organs in Glessulinae is explored. Illustrations and a key for the identification of the Nepalese Glessulinae are provided, including the first record of a spermatophore in Rishetia.
["flagellum"]

Differentiation of three common deep-water hermit crabs (Crustacea, Decapoda, Anomura, Parapaguridae) from the South African demersal abundance surveys, including the description of a new species of Paragiopagurus Lemaitre, 1996
Deep-water hermit crabs of the family Parapaguridae can be abundant (up to 20 kg or 1000 hermit crab individuals per haul) in the trawl bycatch collected during South African demersal abundance research surveys. Until recently, only two parapagurid species had been recognized in the bycatch; Parapagurus bouvieri Stebbing, 1910, and Sympagurus dimorphus (Studer, 1883). Detailed examination of numerous samples of parapagurid specimens from research surveys revealed the existence of a third, undescribed species previously confounded with S. dimorphus, but in fact belonging to a different genus. This new species, Paragiopagurus atkinsonae sp. n. is the 25th in the genus Paragiopagurus Lemaitre, 1996, and has been found only in a small region on the West Coast shelf of South Africa, at depths of 199–277 m. The species is herein fully described and illustrated, including colour images, µCT scans of selected body parts, and CO1 barcode data. The new species is morphologically most similar to P. ventilatus Lemaitre, 2004, a species associated with hydrothermal vents, but differs in armature of the fourth antennal segment (armed with a spine on the dorsolateral distal angle vs. unarmed in P. ventilatus); setation of the antennal flagella (nearly naked vs. with dense setae in P. ventilatus); plumose setation on the third maxillipeds and basal segments of chelipeds (absent vs. present in P. ventilatus); number of rows of scales on the propodal rasp of pereopod 4 (two or three rows vs. one row in P. ventilatus); and degree of telson asymmetry (weakly asymmetrical vs. strongly asymmetrical in P. ventilatus). Paragiopagurus atkinsonae sp. n. is superficially similar to S. dimorphus, with males of the two species showing the same extreme degree of sexual dimorphism on the right cheliped, general light orange colouration, and frequent use of colonial zoanthid carcinoecia for pleonal protection. To aid in future identifications and to facilitate data gathering during surveys, a comparison of P. atkinsonae sp. n. with S. dimorphus is provided, along with descriptions of colouration and photographs of live specimens of all three parapagurid species. Information on taxonomy of the species is summarized, as well as knowledge of their distribution in the demersal research survey regions of South Africa.

A new species of Phyllocomus Grube, 1878 from the Yellow Sea, China (Annelida, Ampharetidae)
A new species of the ampharetid genus Phyllocomus, P. chinensis sp. n., is described based on material from the Yellow Sea. The new species is distinguished from the known species of this genus by having two thoracic regions, with segments of the anterior region (up to thoracic chaetiger 10) approximately half as long as those of the posterior region, neuropodia of the anterior region are large while those of the posterior region become gradually smaller, thoracic neuropodia without dorsal cirrus, and abdominal neuropodia with a papillary dorsal cirrus. A key to all species of Phyllocomus is given.
["Polychaete"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Search for mesophotic octocorals (Cnidaria, Anthozoa) and their phylogeny. II. A new zooxanthellate species from Eilat, northern Red Sea
An octocoral survey conducted in the mesophotic coral ecosystem (MCE) of Eilat (Gulf of Aqaba, northern Red Sea) yielded a new species of the speciose reef-dwelling genus Sinularia. It features encrusting colony morphology with a thin, funnel-shaped polypary. Sinularia mesophotica sp. n. (family Alcyoniidae) is described and compared to the other congeners with similar morphology. Both the morphological and molecular examination justified the establishment of the new species, also assigning it to a new genetic clade within Sinularia. The results highlight its unique phylogenetic position within the genus, and this is the first described species of a mesophotic zooxanthellate octocoral.
["Octocorallia"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Three new species of Carychium O.F. Müller, 1773 from the Southeastern USA, Belize and Panama are described using computer tomography (CT) (Eupulmonata, Ellobioidea, Carychiidae)
Three new species of the genus Carychium O.F. Müller, 1773, Carychium hardiei Jochum & Weigand, sp. n., Carychium belizeense Jochum & Weigand, sp. n. and Carychium zarzaae Jochum & Weigand, sp. n. are described from the Southeastern United States, Belize and Panama, respectively. In two consecutive molecular phylogenetic studies of worldwide members of Carychiidae, the North and Central American morphospecies Carychium mexicanum Pilsbry, 1891 and Carychium costaricanum E. von Martens, 1898 were found to consist of several evolutionary lineages. Although the related lineages were found to be molecularly distinct from the two nominal species, the consequential morphological and taxonomic assessment of these lineages is still lacking. In the present paper, the shells of these uncovered Carychium lineages are assessed by comparing them with those of related species, using computer tomography for the first time for this genus. The interior diagnostic characters are emphasized, such as columellar configuration in conjunction with the columellar lamella and their relationship in context of the entire shell. These taxa are morphologically described and formally assigned their own names.
["Computer tomography"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species of Rhodnius from Brazil (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae)
A colony was formed from eggs of a Rhodnius sp. female collected in Taquarussu, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, and its specimens were used to describe R. taquarussuensis sp. n. This species is similar to R. neglectus, but distinct characters were observed on the head, thorax, abdomen, female external genitalia and male genitalia. Chromosomal differences between the two species were also established.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Trypanosoma species research and implications", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

Altrichthys alelia, a new brooding damselfish (Teleostei, Perciformes, Pomacentridae) from Busuanga Island, Philippines
A new species of damselfish, Altrichthys alelia sp. n. is described from specimens collected in shallow water (1–8m depth) off Busuanga Island, Palawan Province, Philippines. It differs from the other two species in the genus, A. curatus and A. azurelineatus, in various features including having golden upper body lacking dark edges of dorsal and caudal fins, higher modal number of tubed lateral line scales, as well as differences in two mitochondrial markers, one nuclear marker, and RAD markers.
["Apelagic fishes"]

A review of the flea genus Phalacropsylla Rothschild, 1915 (Siphonaptera, Ctenophthalmidae, Neopsyllinae, Phalacropsyllini) with new host and distributional records
A redescription of the genus Phalacropsylla Rothschild is provided. Six species are recognized: Phalacropsylla allos Wagner, P. hamata Tipton and Mendez, P. morlani Eads and Campos, P. nivalis Barrera and Traub, P. oregonensis Lewis and Maser, and P. paradisea Rothschild. Phalacropsylla hamata is designated herein as a junior synonym of P. paradisea. The distribution of P. paradisea is more extensive than previously thought, extending from Arizona through southern Colorado, into New Mexico, Texas, and northern Mexico (State of Nuevo León). It is the least host-specific of all species of Phalacropsylla, occurring on 13 different host species including cricetid, heteromyid, murid, and sciurid rodents and several carnivores, although it most commonly occurs on Neotoma albigula Hartley. The range of P. oregonensis is expanded from eastern Oregon to southeastern Idaho. Numerous records are documented for the most common and ubiquitous species, P. allos, which is found in British Columbia, central to northern California, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, and New Mexico. Neotoma cinerea Ord is the principal host of P. allos. Phalacropsylla allos is a winter flea west of the Rocky Mountains, but it has been reported in warmer months of the year on the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains in Larimer County, Colorado. A distribution map and key are provided for all species in the genus Phalacropsylla.
["Host-parasite relationships"]
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Plant and animal studies"]

Revision of the Neotropical green lacewing genus Ungla (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae)
Here, Ungla Navás, 1914, a poorly known Neotropical genus is reviewed. Twenty-five valid species are recognized; seven of them are new to science: Ungla adamsi sp. n., U. elbergi sp. n., U. grandispiracula sp. n., U. mexicana sp. n., U. pennyi sp. n., U. quchapampa sp. n., U. stangei sp. n.; and five are transferred to Ungla from other genera: U. bolivari (Banks), U. chacranella (Banks), U. siderocephala (Navás), U. steinbachi (Navás), and U. banksi Tauber, new replacement name. In addition, ten new synonymies are identified. For each species, a full nomenclatural history, diagnosis, description or redescription with images, literature citations, and available information on the distribution and biology are provided. Name-bearing types were examined for each species, and images of most are included. Keys based on external features are provided for species identifications. As a result of this study, three generalizations appear: (1) The genital morphology of both males and females of Ungla species is very conserved. All species express a common structural pattern, the components of which vary only slightly among species. (2) Ungla species appear to fall into two geographically distinct groups: about one third (n=7) of the species are recorded from southern South America (specifically Argentina and Brazil) and the other approximately two thirds of the species (n=18) from more northern regions of Neotropical America [Andean and Caribbean regions, Central America, and southern Mexico (Chiapas)]. None of the species from either of the regions is known to overlap into the other region. (3) Available information on the immature stages and natural history of species in Ungla is meagre.
["Chrysopinae"]

Ptychadena in Mauritania and the first record of Ptychadena schillukorum
The study of specimens of the genus Ptychadena of the herpetological collection of the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales de Madrid reveals the first record of Ptychadena schillukorum from Mauritania, extending the known distribution range of the species in West Africa more than 450 km northwards. A key is provided for the four Mauritanian species of Ptychadena to solve problems in identification encountered in previous studies.
["Herpetological collection"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Three new remarkable species of the genus Endonura Cassagnau, 1979 from the Middle East and Central Asia (Collembola, Neanuridae, Neanurinae, Neanurini)
New species belonging to the genus Endonura is described and illustrated in detail. Endonura longirostris sp. n., from northern Iran, is distinctive due to an exceptionally elongate buccal cone compared to that of most other species of the genus. Other characteristic features of the species are the white body with pigmented eyes, a reduced chaetotaxy of the lateral part of the head, the thorax II–III and abdomen I–III with free chaetae De2 and 3, and abdomen IV with particularly short chaetae Di1. The main characteristics of Endonura paracentaurea sp. n. include a white body with dark pigmented eyes, a nonogival labrum, the presence of tubercles Di on the first thoracic segment and of microchaetae on the rudimentary furca. Endonura turkmenica sp. n. can be recognized by its bluish-grey body, labral chaetotaxy, free chaetae E on the head, and notably short chaetae De3 on the thorax and the abdomen. Short remarks on the possible importance of labral modifications are also provided.
["Feeding habits"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

A new species of semiarboreal toad of the Rhinella festae group (Anura, Bufonidae) from the Cordillera Azul National Park, Peru
A new semiarboreal species of the Rhinella festae group is described from montane forests of the Cordillera Azul National Park between 1245 and 1280 m a.s.l. in the Cordillera Oriental, San Martín region, northern Peru. The new species is morphologically and genetically compared with members of the Rhinella acrolopha group (former genus Rhamphophryne) and members of the R. festae group. The new species is characterized by its large size (female SVL 47.1–58.3 mm, n = 4), eight presacral vertebrae, fusion of the sacrum and coccyx, long protuberant snout, snout directed slightly anteroventral in lateral view, cranial crests moderately developed, absence of occipital crest, presence of tympanic membrane, dorsolateral rows of small conical tubercles extending from parotoid gland to groin, hands and feet with long digits, fingers basally webbed and toes moderately webbed. Phylogenetically it is a member of the R. festae group which is most closely related to R. chavin and R. yanachaga from Peru. Morphologically the new species shares similarities with R. tenrec and R. truebae, members of the R. acrolopha group from Colombia.

A checklist of land snails from the west coast islands of Sabah, Borneo (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
Sabah, situated in one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, has the largest number of islands in Malaysia with more than 500 of various sizes and degrees of isolation. However, information on the islands’ biodiversity is limited. This study provides an up-to-date checklist of land snail species found on 24 west coast islands in Sabah. A total of 67 species (nearly 20% of the total number of land snail species in the state) representing 37 genera and 19 families is enumerated based on systematic field surveys of 133 sampling plots, BORNEENSIS database records and species checklists published between 2000 and 2016. The number of species on the islands ranges from four to 29. Labuan Island has the highest number of species (29), followed by Tiga Island (25), Mantanani Besar Island (24) and Gaya Island (23). However, the populations of some land snail species may have declined as several previously recorded species on the islands were not found in a recent systematic field sampling. This checklist is provided as a baseline inventory for future island land snail studies and to better inform biodiversity conservation plans of marine parks and other islands on the Sabah west coast.

A marvelous new glassfrog (Centrolenidae, Hyalinobatrachium) from Amazonian Ecuador
Hyalinobatrachium is a behaviorally and morphologically conserved genus of Neotropical anurans, with several pending taxonomic problems. Using morphology, vocalizations, and DNA, a new species from the Amazonian lowlands of Ecuador is described and illustrated. The new species, Hyalinobatrachium yaku sp. n., is differentiated from all other congenerics by having small, middorsal, dark green spots on the head and dorsum, a transparent pericardium, and a tonal call that lasts 0.27–0.4 s, with a dominant frequency of 5219.3–5329.6 Hz. Also, a mitochondrial phylogeny for the genus is presented that contains the new species, which is inferred as sister to H. pellucidum. Conservation threats to H. yaku sp. n. include habitat destruction and/or pollution mainly because of oil and mining activities.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Overview and new records of the species of the tribes Dyschiriini and Clivinini from Iraq (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Scaritinae)
The genera Clivinopsis Bedel 1895 and Torretassoa Schatzmayr & Koch 1933 have been recorded in Iraq for the first time. New records of several species of Dyschirius Bonelli 1810 Dyschiriodes Jeannel 1941 (Dyschiriini W. Kolbe 1880) and Clivina Latreille 1802 (Clivinini Rafinesque 1815) are given. The identification key to the species of Dyschiriini from Iraq is provided.

First Canadian records of genera Apimela Mulsant & Rey and Gyronycha Casey from New Brunswick: description of two new species and new provincial distribution records (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Two genera, Apimela Mulsant & Rey and Gyronycha Casey (both Aleocharinae: Oxypodini: Meoticina), are recorded from New Brunswick and Canada for the first time. The following species are newly recorded or described as new in New Brunswick and Canada: Apimela fusciceps (Casey); A. canadensis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n.; and Gyronycha pseudoobscura Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n. The genera are defined and the key for species identification is provided. Color habitus images and black and white images of the median lobe of the aedeagus, spermatheca, tergite, and sternite VIII are provided for all species occurring in Canada, and Apimela macella (Erichson), the type species of genus Apimela, and G. valens Casey, the type species of Gyronycha. New or additional habitat data are provided for the species treated in this contribution. The following new synonym is established: Gyronycha lepida Casey, 1911 (NC), is a synonym of G. fusciceps Casey, 1894 (NC).

New species of semi-aquatic freshwater earthworm genus Glyphidrilus Horst, 1889 from Thailand and Laos (Oligochaeta, Almidae)
Seven new species of semi-aquatic freshwater earthworms belonging to the genus Glyphidrilus Horst, 1889 are described from Thailand and Laos, Glyphidrilus nanensis Chanabun & Panha sp. n., G. satunensis Chanabun & Panha sp. n., G. chiangraiensis Chanabun & Panha sp. n., G. namphao Chanabun & Panha sp. n., G. sekongensis Chanabun & Panha sp. n., G. namdonensis Chanabun & Panha sp. n., and G. champasakensis Chanabun & Panha sp. n. The species are characterized by their external and internal morphological characteristics, as well as body sizes. Other morphological character differences between these seven species were also compared, and an identification key is provided. The relationships of the new species to congeners are discussed.
["Almidae"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Molecular, morphological and acoustic assessment of the genus Ophryophryne (Anura, Megophryidae) from Langbian Plateau, southern Vietnam, with description of a new species
Asian Mountain Toads (Ophryophryne) are a poorly known genus of mostly small-sized anurans from southeastern China and Indochina. To shed light on the systematics within this group, the most comprehensive mitochondrial DNA phylogeny for the genus to date is presented, and the taxonomy and biogeography of this group is discussed. Complimented with extensive morphological data (including associated statistical analyses), molecular data indicates that the Langbian Plateau, in the southern Annamite Mountains, Vietnam, is one of the diversity centres of this genus where three often sympatric species of Ophryophryne are found, O. gerti, O. synoria and an undescribed species. To help resolve outstanding taxonomic confusion evident in literature (reviewed herein), an expanded redescription of O. gerti is provided based on the examination of type material, and the distributions of both O. gerti and O. synoria are considerably revised based on new locality records. We provide the first descriptions of male mating calls for all three species, permitting a detailed bioacoustics comparison of the species. We describe the new species from highlands of the northern and eastern Langbian Plateau, and distinguish it from its congeners by a combination of morphological, molecular and acoustic characters. The new species represents one of the smallest known members of the genus Ophryophryne. At present, the new species is known from montane evergreen forest between 700–2200 m a.s.l. We suggest the species should be considered Data Deficient following IUCN’s Red List categories.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Aedes nigrinus (Eckstein, 1918) (Diptera, Culicidae), a new country record for England, contrasted with Aedes sticticus (Meigen, 1838)
We report the discovery of Aedes nigrinus (Eckstein, 1918) in the New Forest of southern England, bringing to 36 the number of mosquito species recorded in Britain. Because it seems that this species has been misidentified previously in Britain as the morphologically similar Aedes sticticus (Meigen, 1838), the two species are contrasted and distinguished based on distinctive differences exhibited in the adult and larval stages. The pupa of Ae. nigrinus is unknown, but the pupa of Ae. sticticus is distinguished from the pupae of other species of Aedes by modification of the most recent key to British mosquitoes. The history of the mosquito fauna recorded in the UK is summarized and bionomical information is provided for the two species.
["Adults"]
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Malaria Research and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

New records and description of two new species of carideans shrimps from Bahía Santa María-La Reforma lagoon, Gulf of California, Mexico (Crustacea, Caridea, Alpheidae and Processidae)
Two new species of the family Alpheidae: Alpheus margaritae sp. n. and Leptalpheus melendezensis sp. n. are described from Santa María-La Reforma, coastal lagoon, SE Gulf of California. Alpheus margaritae sp. n. is closely related to A. antepaenultimus and A. mazatlanicus from the Eastern Pacific and to A. chacei from the Western Atlantic, but can be differentiated from these by a combination of characters, especially the morphology of the scaphocerite and the first pereopods. Leptalpheus melendezensis sp. n. resembles L. mexicanus but can be easily differentiated because L. melendezensis sp. n. has the anterior margin of the carapace broadly rounded and has only one spine on the mesial margin of ischium in the majorcheliped, versus an acute rostrum and an unarmed majorcheliped. Additionally, a phylogenetic analysis was used to explore the relationships of these two new taxa. These results show that Alpheus margaritae sp. n. and Leptalpheus melendezensis sp. n. are indeed related to the species against which we are comparing them, and demonstrate that they can be considered as different species. Additional specimens of Leptalpheus cf. mexicanus, Ambidexter panamensis and A. swifti are recorded for the first time in the Santa María-La Reforma coastal lagoon.
["Caridea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

A new anchialine Stephos Scott from the Yucatan Peninsula with notes on the biogeography and diversity of the genus (Copepoda, Calanoida, Stephidae)
Surveys of the anchialine crustacean fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula (YP), Mexico, have revealed the occurrence of calanoid copepods. The genus Stephos Scott, 1892, belonging to the family Stephidae is among the most frequent and widely distributed groups in anchialine caves but has not been hitherto recorded from the YP. Recent collections from an anchialine cave in an island off the northern coast of the YP yielded many specimens of a new species of Stephos. The new taxon, S. fernandoi sp. n., is described here based on male and female specimens. The new species is clearly distinguished from its congeners by the following characters: male left fifth leg with three terminal lamellae plus subdistal process, right leg with distal row of peg-like elements; female fifth leg with single long, acute apical process; genital double-somite with two rows each of 4 long spinules adjacent to operculum; legs 2-4 with articulated setae. The diversity of the genus shows regional differences; the Australia-Western Pacific region is the most diverse (eleven species), followed by the Mediterranean (seven species) and the Northeastern Atlantic (six species); only four species are known from the Northwestern Tropical Atlantic (NWTA). The morphology of the female fifth leg was examined to explore possible biogeographic trends in the genus; patterns suggest multiple colonization events in the highly diverse regions and a relatively recent radiation in the NWTA, characterized by anchialine forms. The introduction of stephid copepods in the region may be a relatively recent event derived from colonization of benthopelagic ancestral forms and subsequent invasion onto cave habitats. The new species appears to be linked to the strictly anchialine Miostephos.
["Calanoid copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

A new cryptic species and review of the east-Andean leaf chafer genus Mesomerodon Ohaus, 1905 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae)
The Neotropical scarab beetle genus Mesomerodon Ohaus (Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Rutelini) is distributed in the western (lowland) Amazonian region from Colombia to Bolivia. Based on our research, the genus includes three species including a new cryptic species from Ecuador. We use niche modeling to predict potential suitable habitat and identify environmental factors associated with the distribution of Mesomerodon species. We characterize the genus, provide a key to species, diagnose each species, describe a new species, provide spatial and temporal distributions, and discuss distributions of the species in relation to Amazonian landscape biodiversity.
["Amazonian lowland"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and soil sciences"]

First description of the male and redescription of the female of Parahiranetis salgadoi Gil-Santana (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Harpactorinae)
The male of Parahiranetis salgadoi Gil-Santana, 2015 is described for the first time, with a redescription of the female of this species based on additional specimens. Comments on possible mimicry and crypsis exhibited by adults and nymphs of this species, respectively, are provided.
["Graptocleptes"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

The genus Scaptodrosophila Duda part I: the brunnea species group from the Oriental Region, with morphological and molecular evidence (Diptera, Drosophilidae)
Seven new species of the Scaptodrosophila brunnea species group are described from east Asia: S. maculata sp. n., S. melanogaster sp. n., S. nigricostata sp. n., S. nigripecta sp. n., S. obscurata sp. n., S. protenipenis sp. n. and S. rhina sp. n. Three known species, S. parabrunnea (Tsacas & Chassagnard), S. pressobrunnea (Tsacas & Chassagnard) and S. scutellimargo (Duda) are redescribed. A key to all the examined species in the brunnea group is provided. Species delimitations have been improved by integrating the DNA sequences with morphological information. The intra- and interspecific pairwise p-distances (proportional distance) are summarized. Some nucleotide sites with fixed status in the alignment of the COI sequences (664 nucleotide sites in length) are used as “pure” molecular diagnostic characters to delineate species in the brunnea group.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the fungus-farming ant genus Sericomyrmex Mayr (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae)
The genus Sericomyrmex Mayr (Formicidae: Myrmicinae: Attini) is a Neotropical group of fungus-farming ants known for its problematic taxonomy, caused by low morphological variability across the species, vague and old species descriptions, and an outdated and incomplete key published in 1916. Recent molecular studies revealed that Sericomyrmex is the product of a rapid recent radiation, with a divergence date of 4.3 million years ago. Here we present a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the genus Sericomyrmex based on morphology and a recently published molecular phylogeny. We discuss and illustrate morphological characters for Sericomyrmex workers, males, queens, and larvae. We report 18 standard morphological measurements and 5 indices for 529 workers, 50 queens, and 39 males, which we employ in morphometric analyses. The revised genus Sericomyrmex comprises eleven species, including three new species, here described as S. maravalhas sp. n., S. radioheadi sp. n., and S. saramama sp. n. We also redescribe S. amabilis Wheeler, S. bondari Borgmeier, S. lutzi Wheeler, S. mayri Forel, S. opacus Mayr, S. parvulus Forel, S. saussurei Emery, and S. scrobifer Forel. The number of recognized species (11) is lower than the previously recognized 19 species and 3 subspecies. The following species and subspecies are synonymized: under S. opacus [=S. aztecus Forel syn. n., S. zacapanus Wheeler syn. n., and S. diego Forel syn. n.]; under S. bondari [=S. beniensis Weber syn. n.]; under S. mayri [=S. luederwaldti Santschi syn. n., S. moreirai Santschi syn. n., S. harekulli Weber syn. n., S. harekulli arawakensis Weber syn. n., S. urichi Forel syn. n.]; under S. saussurei [=S. burchelli Forel syn. n., S. impexus Wheeler syn. n., S. urichi maracas Weber syn. n.]; and under S. parvulus [=S. myersi Weber syn. n.]. We provide a key to Sericomyrmex species for the worker caste and information on the geographic distributions of all species.
["Attini"]

One new species and three new records of Chrysis Linnaeus from China (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae)
Four Chinese Chrysis species-groups, the antennata, capitalis, elegans, and maculicornis species-groups, are discussed. Chrysis lapislazulina Rosa & Xu, sp. n. is described in the elegans species-group; and three species, C. brachyceras Bischoff, 1910, C. subdistincta Linsenmaier, 1968 and C. yoshikawai Tsuneki, 1961, are reported for the first time from China in other species-groups. A new synonymy is proposed for C. ignifascia Mocsáry, 1893 = C. taiwana Tsuneki, 1970, syn. n. A short historical review of the elegans species-group is provided. C. goetheana Semenov, 1967 is transferred from the elegans species-group to the maculicornis species-group. C. mesochlora Mocsáry, 1893 is considered a nomen dubium.
["Chrysis"]

Revision of the phylogeny and chorology of the tribe Iphisini with the revalidation of Colobosaura kraepelini Werner, 1910 (Reptilia, Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae)
The family Gymnophthalmidae contains nearly 235 species with a distribution range from southern Mexico to central Argentina as well as in the Antilles. Among gymnophthalmids, the genus Colobosaura is a member of the tribe Iphisini, and currently is considered monotypic (C. modesta). The diversity of the tribe was studied recently, with the erection of several new genera. In this work genetic and morphological data of specimens of Colobosaura recently collected in Paraguay were analyzed. Genetic (16S barcode) data indicate that these samples are not conspecific with C. modesta and they are allocated to the nominal species C. kraepelini. Because the original primary type of the latter taxon is considered to be lost, a neotype (SMF 101370) is designated for this species and a redescription provided based on our material. Colobosaura kraepelini is distributed in the Humid Chaco, being the only member of the whole tribe in this ecoregion.
["16S barcodes"]

Revision of the Neotropical water scavenger beetle genus Tobochares Short & García, 2007 (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Acidocerinae)
The genus Tobochares Short & García, 2007 is revised. A combination of morphological and molecular data provide support for ten distinct species. Five new species are described: T. canaliculatus sp. n. (Venezuela), T. canthus sp. n. (Venezuela), T. emarginatus sp. n. (Suriname), T. kusad sp. n. (Guyana), and T. pallidus sp. n. (Venezuela). All four preexisting species are redescribed. A tenth species, known from a single female from Venezuela, is left undescribed pending the collection of additional specimens. New collecting records are provided for T. sulcatus Short & García, 2007 and T. kasikasima Short, 2013. Tobochares sipaliwini Short & Kadosoe, 2011 is newly recorded from Guyana. All species are associated with seepage or wet rock habitats, although some species have also been found along the margins of streams that flow over rocky substrates. High-resolution images including scanning electron micrographs are provided, as well as a key to species and habitat photographs.
["South America"]

Revision of the Vietnamese millipede genus Annamina Attems, 1937, with descriptions of three new species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The hitherto monotypic diplopod genus Annamina contains now four species, including the revised type-species A. xanthoptera Attems, 1937, as well as A. attemsi sp. n., A. irinae sp. n. and A. mikhaljovae sp. n., all from central or southern Vietnam. The genus is rediagnosed and a key to its constituent species given.

Taxonomic revision of the endemic Bornean genera Anexodus Pascoe and Pantilema Aurivillius (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
The genera Anexodus Pascoe, 1866 and Pantilema Aurivillius, 1911 (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae: Morimopsini), both endemic to Borneo, are revised. Four species of Anexodus are recognized: A. aquilus Pascoe, 1886 (Malaysia: Sabah), A. sarawakensis Sudre, 1997 (Malaysia: Sarawak), A. syptakovae sp. n. (Malaysia: Sarawak), and A. tufi sp. n. (Brunei). Pantilema is a monotypic genus containing P. angustum Aurivillius, 1911 (Malaysia: Sarawak) which is known only from the holotype. For the first time, genital structures are studied in these genera. An identification key for the species of Anexodus is provided and their intraspecific morphological variability and distributions are discussed.

A review of the cavernicolous genus Guiaphaenops Deuve, with the description of a new species (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
The subterranean ground beetle genus Guiaphaenops Deuve, 2002 is taxonomically reviewed. This poorly known genus is different from Guizhaphaenops Vigna Taglianti, 1997 in having convex propleura which is visible from above and elytral chaetotaxy especially the humeral group of the marginal umbilicate series, in which the 1st pore is transversely and backwardly shifted. The second species, G. deuvei Tian, Feng & Wei, sp. n., is described from a limestone cave at Yangli Cun (Village), Lingyun Xian (County), Baise Shi (Prefecture), northwestern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. A key to the species and a distribution map of Guiaphaenops are also provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

New species and new records of Manota Williston from Colombia, Brazilian Amazonia, and Costa Rica (Diptera, Mycetophilidae)
The following five species are described as new: Manota clava sp. n. (Colombia), Manota multilobata sp. n. (Colombia), Manota perplexa sp. n. (Costa Rica), Manota setilobata sp. n. (Colombia) and Manota subaristata sp. n. (Colombia). In addition, new records for the following 11 species are presented: Manota acuminata Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Costa Rica), Manota arenalensis Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Costa Rica), Manota corcovado Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Costa Rica), Manota costaricensis Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Costa Rica), Manota diversiseta Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Colombia, Brazilian Amazonia, Costa Rica), Manota minutula Hippa, Kurina & Sääksjärvi, 2017 (Brazilian Amazonia), Manota multisetosa Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Costa Rica), Manota parva Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Colombia, Costa Rica), Manota pisinna Hippa & Kurina, 2013 (Brazilian Amazonia), Manota spinosa Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Colombia) and Manota squamulata Jaschhof & Hippa, 2005 (Costa Rica). Distribution patterns include (1) species known only locally in Costa Rica or Colombia, (2) distributions connecting Central America to west Andes lowlands, and (3) north-west Neotropical components, extending from Central America to Brazilian Amazonia. The possible biogeographical and taxonomical context of Manota species with a widespread distribution is considered.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of Hyphessobrycon (Characiformes, Characidae) from the upper Guaviare River, Orinoco River Basin, Colombia
Hyphessobrycon klausanni sp. n. is described from small drainages of the upper Guaviare River (Orinoco River Basin) in Colombia. It differs from all congeners by having a wide, conspicuous, dark lateral stripe extending from the anterior margin of the eye across the body and continued through the middle caudal-fin rays, and that covers (vertically) three or four horizontal scale rows. It also differs by having an orange-yellow stripe extending from the anterosuperior margin of the eye to the caudal peduncle above the lateral line in life. It differs from all other species of Hyphessobrycon that have a similar dark lateral stripe: H. cyanotaenia, H. loretoensis, H. melanostichos, H. nigricinctus, H. herbertaxelrodi, H. eschwartzae, H. montogoi, H. psittacus, H. metae, H. margitae, H. vanzolinii, and H. peruvianus in having only three or four pored scales in the lateral line, 21 to 24 lateral scales and six teeth in the inner premaxillary row. Hyphessobrycon klausanni differs from H. loretoensis in having seven to eight maxillary teeth (vs. three to four) and in having a longer caudal peduncle (12.4–17.0% SL vs. 4.6–8.0% SL). Additionally Hyphessobrycon klausanni can be distinguished from the other species of Hyphessobrycon with a dark lateral stripe from the Orinoco River Basin (H. metae and H. acaciae) in having two teeth in the outer premaxillary row (vs. three to four) and 10 branched pectoral–fin rays (vs. 11 to 12). It further differs from H. metae by the length of the snout (17.6–22.8% HL vs. 9.9–15.2% HL) and by the length of the caudal peduncle (12.4–17.0% SL vs. 7.3–11.8% SL).
["New taxon"]

Addition of a new Quedius Steph. (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) species to the biodiversity of Albertan mixedwood forest, Canada
Quedius (Raphirus) spencei Jacobs and Bergeron, new species, (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), is described based on specimens from two localities (type locality: 35 km. E Dixonville, Alberta, Canada) in the Boreal Forest. Male genitalia are illustrated, compared with congeners (Q. rusticus Smetana and Q. simulator Smetana) in the Aenescens species group, and included in a slightly modified key to the species of Quedius.
["Quedius"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

The genus Anaphothrips with one new species from China (Thysanoptera, Thripidae)
A key to six species of Anaphothrips known from China is provided, together with distribution information. Anaphothrips dentatus sp. n. is described and illustrated from Sanjiang Plain in northeastern China, based on one male and five apterous females. This species is unusual in having the posterior margin of tergite VIII with a craspedum of small teeth rather than long microtrichia.
["Anaphothrips"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Agricultural pest management studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Molecular and morphological identification of Biomphalaria species from the state of São Paulo, Brazil
DNA barcoding and morphological characters were used to identify adult snails belonging to the genus Biomphalaria from 17 municipalities in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The DNA barcode analysis also included twenty-nine sequences retrieved from GenBank. The final data set of 104 sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene was analyzed for K2P intraspecific and interspecific divergences, through tree-reconstruction methods (Neighbor-Joining, Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian inference), and by applying different models (ABGD, bPTP, GMYC) to partition the sequences according to the pattern of genetic variation. Twenty-seven morphological parameters of internal organs were used to identify specimens. The molecular taxonomy of Biomphalaria agreed with the morphological identification of specimens from the same collection locality. DNA barcoding may therefore be a useful supporting tool for identifying Biomphalaria snails in areas at risk for schistosomiasis.
["Biomphalaria"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control"]

Faunistic notes on Cryptophagidae and Latridiidae of Talassemtane National Park, Western Rif, Morocco, with the description of a new species (Coleoptera, Cucujoidea)
In order to contribute to the knowledge of beetles (Coleoptera) of the mountainous region of Morocco, Talassemtane National Park (Western Rif, Chefchaouen district, Morocco) was surveyed. This is an exceptional protected area of the Mediterranean Intercontinental Biosphere Reserve (RIBM). The checklist was made using different traps combined with active periodical searches during 2013–2015. A total of 153 beetles belonging to 19 species from four subfamilies (Cryptophagidae: Cryptophaginae and Atomariinae; Latridiidae: Latridiinae and Corticariinae) was collected. Dienerella (Cartoderema) talassemata, a new species (Coleoptera: Latridiidae) was compared to other morphologically related species. One species is recorded for the first time for North Africa; three species are new records for Morocco. In addition, amongst the species listed, three are endemic to Morocco: Dienerella talassemtana sp. n., Caenoscelis humifera and Dienerella besucheti.

A new genus and species of golden coral (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Chrysogorgiidae) from the Northwest Atlantic
A new genus and species of unbranched golden coral, Flagelligorgia gracilis, is described based on several specimens collected off the southeastern coast of the United States. The genus is provisionally included in the family Chrysogorgiidae, pending molecular confirmation. Flagelligorgia morphologically resembles other unbranched chrysogorgiids, such as Distichogorgia, Chalcogorgia, Helicogorgia and Radicipes, to which it is compared. The type species is illustrated and its distribution mapped.
["Flagelligorgia"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Revision of the fish parasitic genus Pleopodias Richardson, 1910 (Isopoda, Cymothoidae), with the description of a new species and key to the genus
The cymothoid genus, Pleopodias Richardson, 1910, is revised and a new species from South Africa is recorded. Pleopodias nielbrucei sp. n. can be distinguished by large eyes covering majority of the cephalon (almost in contact), antennula bases wide apart, antenna extending to middle of pereonite 2, subtruncate pleotelson, pereopod 7 with numerous acute robust setae on the propodus as well as the carpus, and the uropod exopod longer than the endopod. The three known species, Pleopodias diaphus Avdeev, 1975; P. elongatus Richardson, 1910; and P. vigilans Richardson, 1911 are also redescribed. Pleopodias nielbrucei sp. n. differs from these known species in both morphological characters as well as geographical distribution. A key to the Pleopodias species is provided.
["External parasite"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Parasites and Host Interactions"]

A new species of leech of the genus Placobdella (Hirudinida, Glossiphoniidae) from the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) in Mississippi, USA
To date, the only species of leech reported from the American Alligator, Alligator mississippiensis is Placobdella multilineata. Seven specimens of a previously undescribed species of Placobdella were collected from the feet and lower jaw of a single female alligator from the Pascagoula River Wildlife Management Area, George County, Mississippi. The new species was named Placobdella siddalli Richardson & Moser, sp. n., in honor of the contributions of Dr. Mark Siddall to our understanding of the biology of leeches. Placobdella siddalli Richardson & Moser is similar to other papillated members of the genus Placobdella, but differs from Placobdella ali Hughes & Siddall, 2007, Placobdella rugosa (Verrill, 1874), Placobdella multilineata Moore, 1953, and Placobdella papillifera (Verrill, 1872) in coloration, papillation, ventral striping, and in the possession of a relatively large caudal sucker. In addition, molecular comparison of 626 nucleotides of CO-I between the new species and other papillated leeches (P. ali, P. multilineata, Placobdella ornata, P. papillifera, P. rugosa) revealed interspecific differences of 14.0–18.0% (88–113 nucleotides).
["Placobdella"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new Paraleius species (Acari, Oribatida, Scheloribatidae) associated with bark beetles (Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in Canada
Bark beetles (Scolytinae) are hosts to a broad diversity of mites (Acari), including several genera of Oribatida (Sarcoptiformes). Of these, Paraleius (Scheloribatidae) species are the most frequently collected oribatid mites associated with bark beetles. A new species was discovered while surveying the acarofauna of bark beetles in Eastern Canada and is described as Paraleius leahae sp. n. (Oribatida, Scheloribatidae). This species was collected from two host beetle species, Hylastes porculus Erickson and Dendroctonus valens LeConte, in Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The genus Paraleius is rediagnosed, Metaleius is considered a synonym of Paraleius, and the proposed synonymy of Paraleius with Siculobata is rejected. The three known species are Paraleius leontonycha (Berlese), P. leahae sp. n., and P. strenzkei (Travé), comb. n. The barcode region of cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) was amplified from P. leahae sp. n.
["Mite"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Study of Mite Species"]

Frit flies of Turkey with descriptions of two new species and new records (Diptera, Chloropidae)
Faunistic records for 88 frit flies species from southwestern Turkey (Muğla province) and from Samsun (north Turkey) are given. Two species, Dicraeus civeleki sp. n., and Meromyza samsunensis sp. n., are described as new to science. Altogether, nine genera (Calamoncosis, Eribolus, Gaurax, Incertella, Speccafrons, Trachysiphonella, Chloropsina, Eutropha, and Lagaroceras) and 46 species are recorded for the first time from Turkey.
["Acalyptratae"]

Two new Brazilian species of Loxosceles Heinecken & Lowe, 1832 with remarks on amazonica and rufescens groups (Araneae, Sicariidae)
The genus Loxosceles Heinecken & Lowe, 1832 has 91 representatives in the New World. Despite medical relevancy, the taxonomy of the genus is poorly understood. South American Loxosceles were divided into four groups of species: laeta, spadicea, gaucho and amazonica; this last one has a single species, Loxosceles amazonica Gertsch, 1967. More recently, the natural occurrence of L. amazonica in the New World has been questioned, due to the strong morphological resemblance and close phylogenetic relationship with Old World species, mainly with Loxosceles rufescens (Dufour, 1820). Herein, L. amazonica is rediagnosed and its morphological variation and natural distribution discussed. Two new species closely related to it from northeastern Brazil are also described, Loxosceles willianilsoni sp. n., from the state of Rio Grande do Norte, and Loxosceles muriciensis sp. n., from the state of Alagoas. The relationships of these new species with L. amazonica and L. rufescens are discussed.
["Alagoas"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Phylogeny of the genus Yumtaax Boucher (Coleoptera, Passalidae, Proculini): Taxonomic and evolutionary implications with descriptions of three new species
Yumtaax Boucher (Coleoptera: Passalidae) is an endemic genus from the temperate sierras of Mexico and includes six narrowly distributed species. Yumtaax species have been assigned to several genera of Passalidae throughout history, and a phylogenetic approach is necessary to understand species delimitation and interspecific relationships. This study reconstructed the molecular phylogeny of six Yumtaax morphotypes using parsimony and Bayesian analysis of DNA sequence data from the ribosomal nuclear gene region 28S and the mitochondrial gene regions 12S and cytochrome oxidase I (COI) in addition to morphological characters. Analyses recovered two well-supported Yumtaax clades (the Yumtaax laticornis and Yumtaax imbellis clades) that are possible sister lineages. One synapomorphic morphological character state and the geographic isolation of the group provide corroborative evidence for monophyly. Molecular phylogenetic analyses and traditional morphological examinations also resulted in the discovery of two undescribed Yumtaax species and the discovery of two separate evolutionary lineages (cryptic species) within Yumtaax recticornis. As a result we describe three new species (Yumtaax veracrucensis Beza-Beza, Reyes-Castillo & Jameson, sp. n., Yumtaax cameliae Beza-Beza, Reyes-Castillo & Jameson, sp. n., and Yumtaax jimenezi Beza-Beza, Reyes-Castillo & Jameson, sp. n.), redescribe two species (Yumtaax recticornis [Burmeister 1847] and Yumtaax laticornis [Truqui 1857]), and provide a key to all nine Yumtaax species. This study is one of two studies to use molecular data to evaluate the evolutionary relationships of a genus of Bess Beetles (Passalidae), an ecologically important insect group exhibiting low morphological variability and heretofore lacking molecular phylogenetic study.
["Passalidae"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new species of Oxynetra from Mexico (Hesperiidae, Pyrginae, Pyrrhopygini)
Oxynetra aureopecta sp. n. is described from the Sierra Madre Oriental of east-central Mexico. Visually similar to Mesoamerican O. hopfferi Staudinger, 1888 in having five orange bands on the abdomen above, it is diagnosed by orange forecoxae and palpi beneath, narrower forewing hyaline bands and a prominent 6% difference in the COI DNA barcode sequence. It is the northernmost representative of the hopfferi species group that also includes O. stangelandi Grishin & Burns, 2013, characterized by a single-banded abdomen and currently known only from the Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica. Both O. hopfferi and O. stangelandi possess white forecoxae and ventral palpi. This new discovery brings the total number of Oxynetra C. & R. Felder, 1862 species to five.

The morphological and molecular identity of Longidorus piceicola Lišková, Robbins & Brown, 1997 from Romania (Nematoda, Dorylaimida)
Longidorus piceicola, a new geographical and host record from Romania, was described and illustrated on the basis of two populations originating from a coniferous and a deciduous forest. The main morphological characters of specimens from Romania correspond very well with the type material collected from the soil around Picea abies L. (Slovakia) except for the shorter body and tail. The D2-D3 fragment of 28S rDNA from both populations was amplified and sequenced, and the sequences were identical to L. piceicola sequence from Slovakia. The partial 18S-ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA regions from one of the populations were sequenced for the first time. The evolutionary relationships between L. piceicola and the closest species L. intermedius based on D2-D3 sequence divergence and single-nucleotide polymorphisms are discussed. Although having very low sequence dissimilarity (0.3–0.9 %) both species have distinct morphology and biology. Longidorus piceicola differs from L. intermedius in having a much longer odontostyle, body, distance anterior end - guide ring, a wider lip region, more ventromedian supplements (11 vs 5–7) in the male, and develops through four rather than three juvenile stages. Furthermore, L. piceicola occurs more frequently in association with conifers, while L. intermedius is found mainly in oak forests.
["D2\u2013D3 expansion region rDNA"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control"]

Synopsis of the pelidnotine scarabs (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae, Rutelini) and annotated catalog of the species and subspecies
The pelidnotine scarabs (Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Rutelini) are a speciose, paraphyletic assemblage of beetles that includes spectacular metallic species (“jewel scarabs”) as well as species that are ecologically important as herbivores, pollinators, and bioindicators. These beetles suffer from a complicated nomenclatural history, due primarily to 20th century taxonomic and nomenclatural errors. We review the taxonomic history of the pelidnotine scarabs, present a provisional key to genera with overviews of all genera, and synthesize a catalog of all taxa with synonyms, distributional data, type specimen information, and 107 images of exemplar species. As a result of our research, the pelidnotine leaf chafers (a paraphyletic group) include 27 (26 extant and 1 extinct) genera and 420 valid species and subspecies (419 extant and 1 extinct). Our research makes biodiversity research on this group tractable and accessible, thus setting the stage for future studies that address evolutionary and ecological trends. Based on our research, 1 new species is described, 1 new generic synonym and 12 new species synonyms are proposed, 11 new lectotypes and 1 new neotype are designated, many new or revised nomenclatural combinations, and many unavailable names are presented. The following taxonomic changes are made: New generic synonym: The genus Heteropelidnota Ohaus, 1912 is a new junior synonym of Pelidnota MacLeay, 1819. New species synonyms: Plusiotis adelaida pavonacea Casey, 1915 is a syn. n. of Chrysina adelaida (Hope, 1841); Odontognathus gounellei Ohaus, 1908 is a revised synonym of Pelidnota ebenina (Blanchard, 1842); Pelidnota francoisgenieri Moore & Jameson, 2013 is a syn. n. of Pelidnota punctata (Linnaeus, 1758); Pelidnota genieri Soula, 2009 is a syn. n. of Pelidnota punctata (Linnaeus, 1758); Pelidnota lutea (Olivier, 1758) is a revised synonym of Pelidnota punctata (Linnaeus, 1758); Pelidnota (Pelidnota) texensis Casey, 1915 is a revised synonym of Pelidnota punctata (Linnaeus, 1758); Pelidnota (Strigidia) zikani (Ohaus, 1922) is a revised synonym of Pelidnota tibialis tibialis Burmeister, 1844; Pelidnota ludovici Ohaus, 1905 is a syn. n. of Pelidnota burmeisteri tricolor Nonfried, 1894; Rutela fulvipennis Germar, 1824 is syn. n. of Pelidnota cuprea (Germar, 1824); Pelidnota pulchella blanda Burmeister, 1844 is a syn. n. of Pelidnota pulchella pulchella (Kirby, 1819); Pelidnota pulchella scapularis Burmeister, 1844 is a syn. n. of Pelidnota pulchella pulchella (Kirby, 1819); Pelidnota xanthogramma Perty, 1830 is a syn. n. of Pelidnota pulchella pulchella (Kirby, 1819). New or revised statuses: Pelidnota fabricelavalettei Soula, 2009, revised status, is considered a species; Pelidnota rioensis Soula, 2009, stat. n., is considered a species; Pelidnota semiaurata semiaurata Burmeister, 1844, stat. rev., is considered a subspecies. New or comb. rev. and revised status: Plusiotis guaymi Curoe, 2001 is formally transferred to the genus Chrysina (C. guaymi (Curoe, 2001), comb. n.); Plusiotis transvolcanica Morón & Nogueira, 2016 is transferred to the genus Chrysina (C. transvolcanica (Morón & Nogueira, 2016), comb. n.). Heteropelidnota kuhnti Ohaus, 1912 is transferred to the genus Pelidnota (P. kuhnti (Ohaus, 1912), comb. n.); Odontognathus riedeli Ohaus, 1905 is considered a subspecies of Pelidnota rubripennis Burmeister, 1844 (Pelidnota rubripennis riedeli (Ohaus, 1905), revised status and comb. rev.); Pelidnota (Strigidia) acutipennis (F. Bates, 1904) is transferred to the genus Sorocha (Sorocha acutipennis (F. Bates, 1904), comb. rev.); Pelidnota (Odontognathus) nadiae Martínez, 1978 is transferred to the genus Sorocha (Sorocha nadiae (Martínez, 1978), comb. rev.); Pelidnota (Ganonota) plicipennis Ohaus, 1934 is transferred to the genus Sorocha (Sorocha plicipennis (Ohaus, 1934), comb. rev.); Pelidnota similis Ohaus, 1908 is transferred to the genus Sorocha (Sorocha similis (Ohaus, 1908), comb. rev.); Pelidnota (Ganonota) yungana Ohaus, 1934 is transferred to Sorocha (Sorocha yungana (Ohaus, 1934), comb. rev.); Pelidnota malyi Soula, 2010: 58, revised status; Xenopelidnota anomala porioni Chalumeau, 1985, revised subspecies status. To stabilize the classification of the group, a neotype is designated for the following species: Pelidnota thiliezi Soula, 2009. Lectotypes are designated for the following names (given in their original combinations): Pelidnota brevicollis Casey, 1915, Pelidnota brevis Casey, 1915, Pelidnota debiliceps Casey, 1915, Pelidnota hudsonica Casey, 1915, Pelidnota oblonga Casey, 1915, Pelidnota pallidipes Casey, 1915, Pelidnota ponderella Casey, 1915, Pelidnota strenua Casey, 1915, Pelidnota tarsalis Casey, 1915, Pelidnota texensis Casey, 1915, and Scarabaeus punctatus Linnaeus, 1758. The following published infrasubspecific names are unavailable per ICZN Article 45.6.1: Pelidnota (Odontognathus) cuprea var. coerulea Ohaus, 1913; Pelidnota (Odontognathus) cuprea var. rufoviolacea Ohaus, 1913; Pelidnota (Odontognathus) cuprea var. nigrocoerulea Ohaus, 1913; Pelidnota pulchella var. fulvopunctata Ohaus, 1913; Pelidnota pulchella var. sellata Ohaus, 1913; Pelidnota pulchella var. reducta Ohaus, 1913; Pelidnota unicolor var. infuscata Ohaus, 1913. The following published species name is unavailable per ICZN Article 11.5: Neopatatra synonyma Moore & Jameson, 2013. The following published species name is unavailable per application of ICZN Article 16.1: Parhoplognathus rubripennis Soula, 2008. The following published species name is unavailable per application of ICZN Article 16.4.1: Strigidia testaceovirens argentinica Soula, 2006, Pelidnota (Strigidia) testaceovirens argentinica (Soula, 2006), and Pelidnota testaceovirens argentinica (Soula, 2006). The following published species names are unavailable per application of ICZN Article 16.4.2: Homonyx digennaroi Soula, 2010; Homonyx lecourti Soula, 2010; Homonyx mulliei Soula, 2010; Homonyx simoensi Soula, 2010; Homonyx wagneri Soula, 2010; Homonyx zovii Demez & Soula, 2011; Pelidnota arnaudi Soula, 2009; Pelidnota brusteli Soula, 2010; Pelidnota chalcothorax septentrionalis Soula, 2009; Pelidnota degallieri Soula, 2010; Pelidnota lavalettei Soula, 2008; Pelidnota lavalettei Soula, 2009; Pelidnota dieteri Soula, 2011; Strigidia gracilis decaensi Soula, 2008, Pelidnota (Strigidia) gracilis decaensi (Soula, 2008), and Pelidnota gracilis decaensi (Soula, 2008); Pelidnota halleri Demez & Soula, 2011; Pelidnota injantepalominoi Demez & Soula, 2011; Pelidnota kucerai Soula, 2009; Pelidnota malyi Soula, 2010: 36-37; Pelidnota mezai Soula, 2009; Pelidnota polita darienensis Soula, 2009; Pelidnota polita orozcoi Soula, 2009; Pelidnota polita pittieri Soula, 2009; Pelidnota punctulata decolombia Soula, 2009; Pelidnota punctulata venezolana Soula, 2009; Pelidnota raingeardi Soula, 2009; Pelidnota schneideri Soula, 2010; Pelidnota simoensi Soula, 2009; Pelidnota unicolor subandina Soula, 2009; Sorocha carloti Demez & Soula, 2011; Sorocha castroi Soula, 2008; Sorocha fravali Soula, 2011; Sorocha jeanmaurettei Demez & Soula, 2011; Sorocha yelamosi Soula, 2011; Xenopelidnota bolivari Soula, 2009; Xenopelidnota pittieri pittieri Soula, 2009. Due to unavailability of the name Pseudogeniates cordobaensis Soula 2009, we describe the species as intentionally new (Pseudogeniates cordobaensis Moore, Jameson, Garner, Audibert, Smith, and Seidel, sp. n.).
["leaf chafers"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Six new species of the genus Exocelina Broun, 1886 from Wano Land, New Guinea (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Six new species of New Guinea Exocelina Broun, 1886 are described in this paper: E. iratoi sp. n., E. likui sp. n., E. pui sp. n., E. pulukensis sp. n., E. tomhansi sp. n., and E. wigodukensis sp. n. Although different morphologically, together with Exocelina ascendens (Balke, 1998), E. bagus (Balke & Hendrich, 2001), and E. ransikiensis Shaverdo, Panjaitan & Balke, 2016, they are found to form a monophyletic clade and be closely related to representatives of the E. ekari-group, based on preliminary analysis of sequence data. An identification key to the species is provided, and important diagnostic characters are illustrated. The present data on the species’ distribution show that most of them are local endemics.
["Copelatinae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Corrigenda: Cherax warsamsonicus, a new species of crayfish from the Kepala Burung (Vogelkop) peninsula in West Papua, Indonesia (Crustacea, Decapoda, Parastacidae) ZooKeys 660: 151–167. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.660.11847
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and Coastal Ecosystems", "Aquatic life and conservation"]

Disjunctitermes insularis, a new soldierless termite genus and species (Isoptera, Termitidae, Apicotermitinae) from Guadeloupe and Peru
Disjunctitermes insularis gen. n. & sp. n. is described from workers collected on Guadeloupe and in Peru and is the first soldierless termite found on a deep-water island. As with many soldierless and soil-feeding termite species, the enteric valve morphology is an essential diagnostic character of D. insularis. The D. insularis sequence cluster, derived from a barcode analysis with twelve other described genera of New World Apicotermitinae, is well resolved. Results of a stochastic dynamic spread model suggest that the occurrence of D. insularis on Guadeloupe may be the result of a pre-Colombian overwater dispersal event from mainland South America.
["Soil-feeder"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New record for the genus Platymessa Mello-Leitão, 1941 in Colombia, with the description of a new species (Opiliones, Cosmetidae)
The genus Platymessa Mello-Leitão, 1941 is represented by two species in the Andes of Colombia: P. h-inscriptum Mello-Leitão, 1941 and P. ectroxantha Mello-Leitão, 1941. Platymessa victoriae Pinzón-M. & Townsend, sp. n. is described on the basis of somatic morphological characters and the structure of the penis. The placement of this new species in the genus Platymessa is based upon multiple characters including the outline of dorsal scutum, the presence of a blunt spine on coxa IV, having short and strong legs with femora III and IV having five longitudinal rows of small tubercles, the shape of the basitarsomeres of male leg I, the distribution and relative sizes of the marginal setae on the ventral plate of the penis, and the morphology of the chelicerae and cheliceral sockets. In contrast to other members of the genus, P. victoriae has a pair of triangular tubercles on scutal area III, lacks paired paramedian tubercles on scutal area V, and does not have a ladder mask color pattern on the dorsal scutum. The description of this species expands the distribution of the genus to north of the Oriental Cordillera in the Cesar Department of Colombia.
["Platymessa victoriae sp. n."]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Two new species of Leptopsyllus from Korea (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Paramesochridae)
Two new species of Leptopsyllus are described from the subtidal zone of Korea. Both species were assigned to the subgenus Leptopsyllus (Leptopsyllus) T. Scott, 1894, based on following three characters: two-segmented rami of P1, absence of endopod on P2 and P3, and presence of one-segmented endopod of P4. L. (L.) pundiussp. n. is most closely related to L. (L.) punctatus Mielke, 1894, however clearly distinguishable from it based on mandibular exopod with two setae, shape of P6, and caudal seta III ornamented with spinules in the new species. L. (L.) koreanussp. n. is clearly distinguishable from its congeners by the second segment of P1 endopod armed with one element, male baseoendopod of P5 with one seta, and one segmented endopod of mandibular palp. The world distribution and updated key to the species of the genus Leptopsyllus are provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A revision of the Oriental species of Bolitogyrus Chevrolat (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae)
The Oriental species of the relictual genus Bolitogyrus are revised based on 200 specimens. An updated description of the genus is provided, including additional putative synapomorphies. Fifty valid Oriental species are diagnosed herein and the following nineteen are described as new to science: B. concavus sp. n.; B. confusus sp. n.; B. himalayicus sp. n.; B. khasiensis sp. n.; B. luteus sp. n.; B. mulayitensis sp. n.; B. nanus sp. n.; B. nokrek sp. n.; B. pecki sp. n.; B. pederseni sp. n.; B. phukhieo sp. n.; B. rougemonti sp. n.; B. sepilok sp. n.; B. schillhammeri sp. n.; B. smetanai sp. n.; B. solodovnikovi sp. n.; B. temburong sp. n.; B. tigris sp. n.; and B. tumidus sp. n. The following synonymies are proposed: Cyrtothorax borneensis Cameron, 1942, syn. n. = Cyrtothorax caesareus Bernhauer, 1915; Cyrtothorax octomaculatus Cameron, 1937 syn. n. = Quedius ornatipennis Wendeler, 1927. Quedius (Raphirus) ornatipennis is moved to Bolitogyrus as B. ornatipennis (Wendeler), comb. n. A lectotype is designated for Cyrtothorax rufipennis Cameron, 1937. Several species are named in recognition of conservation efforts to protect tropical primary forests in Asia that are important to the survival of many Bolitogyrus species. All available bionomic and distributional data for Oriental Bolitogyrus are summarized, and an identification key is provided.
["Staphylinini"]

A new species of genus Chorebus Haliday (Hymenoptera, Alysiinae) parasitising Hexomyza caraganae Gu (Diptera, Agromyzidae) from NW China
Chorebus (Stiphrocera) hexomyzaesp. n. (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae, Dacnusini) is described and illustrated. It was reared from twig galls of Hexomyza caraganae Gu (Diptera, Agromyzidae) on Caragana korshinskii Kom. f. (Fabaceae) in Ningxia and Inner Mongolia (NW China). A partial key to related or similar Chorebus species is provided.
["Alysiinae"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Paussus (Scaphipaussus) zhouchaoi sp. n., a new myrmecophilous species from China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Paussinae, Paussini)
A new species of flanged bombardier beetles is described from Jiangxi and Sichuan, China, Paussus (Scaphipaussus) zhouchaoisp. n. (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Paussinae, Paussini). All the type specimens were collected from colonies of the host ant Pheidole sp. (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae). Important morphological characters of the new species are illustrated by color plates.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Phylogenetic analysis of the Lancinae (Gastropoda, Lymnaeidae) with a description of the U.S. federally endangered Banbury Springs lanx
We examined the patelliform snails of the subfamily Lancinae, endemic to northwestern North America, to test whether morphological variation correlated with genetic and anatomical differences. Molecular analyses using cox1, 16S, calmodulin intron, and 28S rDNA partial sequences and anatomical data supported recognition of four species in three genera. The relationships of lancines within Lymnaeidae are not yet well-resolved. The federally endangered Banbury Springs lanx is described as a new genus and species, Idaholanx fresti, confirming its distinctiveness and narrow endemicity.
["Lanx"]

A survey of five Pireneitega species (Agelenidae, Coelotinae) from China
Five species of Pireneitega spiders from China are surveyed, of which three are new to science: P. huashanensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. lushuiensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), P. xiyankouensis Zhao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀). Two known species are redescribed: P. liansui (Bao & Yin, 2004) and P. triglochinata (Zhu & Wang, 1991). The males of P. liansui and P. triglochinata (Zhu & Wang, 1991) are described for the first time. DNA barcodes for five species are documented for future use and as proof of molecular differences between species.

Non-destructive morphological observations of the fleshy brittle star, Asteronyx loveni using micro-computed tomography (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea, Euryalida)
The first morphological observation of a euryalid brittle star, Asteronyx loveni, using non-destructive X-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT) was performed. The body of euryalids is covered by thick skin, and it is very difficult to observe the ossicles without dissolving the skin. Computed tomography with micrometer resolution (approximately 4.5–15.4 µm) was used to construct 3D images of skeletal ossicles and soft tissues in the ophiuroid’s body. Shape and positional arrangement of taxonomically important ossicles were clearly observed without any damage to the body. Detailed pathways inside the vertebral ossicles, lateral arm plates, and arm spines for passage of nerves and water vascular structures were observed. Inter-vertebral muscles were also observed. Forms and 3D arrangements of many important taxonomical characters of the euryalids were scrutinized by µCT in high enough resolution for taxonomic description of ophiuroids.
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Spacecraft and Cryogenic Technologies"]

The Phanuromyia galeata species group (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae, Telenominae): shining a lantern into an unexplored corner of Neotropical diversity
The Phanuromyia galeata species group is delineated and its species richness explored for the first time (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae, Telenominae). Fifteen species are described, all of which are new: Phanuromyia comata Nesheim & Masner, sp. n. (Brazil), P. constellata Nesheim, sp. n. (Paraguay), P. corys Nesheim & Masner, sp. n. (Brazil), P. cranos Nesheim & Masner, sp. n. (Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana), P. cudo Nesheim & Masner, sp. n. (Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela), P. dissidens Nesheim & Masner, sp. n. (Bolivia, Brazil, French Guiana), P. galeata Nesheim & Masner, sp. n. (Belize, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Mexico, Peru), P. galerita Nesheim & Masner, sp. n. (Brazil, Ecuador, French Guiana), P. hjalmr Nesheim, sp. n. (Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Paraguay, Venezuela), P. krossotos Nesheim, sp. n. (Ecuador), P. odo Nesheim, sp. n. (Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela), P. pauper Nesheim, sp. n. (Ecuador, Peru), P. princeps Nesheim, sp. n. (Brazil, Ecuador, French Guiana), P. tonsura Nesheim, sp. n. (Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru), P. tubulifer Nesheim & Masner, sp. n. (Brazil, Guyana).
["Platygastroidea"]

Molecular assessment of three species of Anilocra (Isopoda, Cymothoidae) ectoparasites from Caribbean coral reef fishes, with the description of Anilocra brillae sp. n.
A morphological review and molecular characterization of Anilocra haemuli Bunkley Williams & Williams, 1981, were completed using specimens collected from Haemulon flavolineatum Desmarest, 1823 (French grunt) and Epinephelus guttatus Linnaeus, 1758 (red hind). Molecular and morphological data suggest that the isopods parasitizing H. flavolineatum and E. guttatus are different species. The specimens collected from E. guttatus are recognized as a new species, Anilocra brillae sp. n. Differences between Anilocra brillae sp. n. and A. haemuli include but are not limited to the pleonites 1–3 of A. brillae sp. n. being wider than 4–5 and 4–5 subequal, whereas the pleonites 1–2 of A. haemuli are wider than 3–5, and 3–5 are subequal. The seventh pereopod of A. brillae sp. n. is proportionally larger, has more robust setae, and the setae are distributed more extensively over the articles when compared to A. haemuli. Additionally, this study provides the first genetic characterization of three Anilocra spp. from the Caribbean, and is based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit gene (COI) for A. haemuli from H. flavolineatum, A. brillae sp. n. from E. guttatus, and A. chromis Bunkley Williams & Williams, 1981 from Chromis multilineata Guichenot, 1853.
["Anilocra"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Taxonomic review of the Palaearctic species of the Cheilosia caerulescens-group (Diptera, Syrphidae)
The Palaearctic species of the Cheilosia caerulescens group (Diptera: Syrphidae) are revised in this work. The species group belongs to the genus Cheilosia subgenus Taeniocheilosia Oldenberg. One new species is described from north Caucasus, Cheilosia (Taeniocheilosia) circassicasp. n. Cheilosia primulae Hering is established as a junior synonym of Cheilosia laeviventris Loew. Four lectotype designations are made. The species of the Cheilosia caerulescens group are redescribed and illustrated, and a table of diagnostic characters and an identification key to species are provided. MtDNA COI barcodes were generated for several specimens of C. (T.) caerulescens Meigen and other Cheilosia (Taeniocheilosia) and Cheilosia s. str. taxa. Parsimony and maximum likelihood analyses did not place the morphologically similar C. hercyniae Loew in the C. caerulescens group but among other Cheilosia (Taeniocheilosia) taxa. The following eight taxa are included in the Cheilosia (T.) caerulescens group of species: Cheilosia armeniaca Stackelberg, 1960, C. caerulescens caerulescens (Meigen, 1822), C. caerulescens calculosa Skufjin, 1977, C. circassica sp. n., C. herculana Brădescu, 1982, C. kerteszi Szilády, 1938, C. laeviventris Loew, 1857, and C. venosa Loew, 1857.

Cyphastrea salae, a new species of hard coral from Lord Howe Island, Australia (Scleractinia, Merulinidae)
A new zooxanthellate reef-dwelling scleractinian coral species, Cyphastrea salae sp. n. (Scleractinia, Merulinidae), is described from Lord Howe Island Australia. The new species can be distinguished morphologically from the only other congeneric species on Lord Howe Island, C. microphthalma, by the number of primary septa (12 vs. 10) and the much taller corallites (mean ± SE: 1.0 ± 0.07 mm v 0.4 ± 0.04 mm). The relationship of C. salae to four of the other eleven currently accepted species in the genus was explored through analyses of nuclear (28S rDNA) and mitochondrial (noncoding intergenic region) gene sequences. Cyphastrea salae sp. n. forms a strongly supported clade that is distinct from a clade containing three species found commonly in Australia, C. chalcidicum, C. serailia, and C. microphthalma. One specimen was also found in the Solitary Islands, another high latitude location in south-eastern Australia. The discovery of a new species in the genus Cyphastrea on high latitude reefs in south-eastern Australia suggests that other new species might be found among more diverse genera represented here and that the scleractinian fauna of these isolated locations is more distinct than previously recognised.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

A new species of Uralaphorura Martynova, 1978 from northeast China, with a key to world species of the genus (Collembola, Onychiuridae)
A new species, Uralaphorura liangshuiensis sp. n., has been reported from Xiao Hinggan Mountains (northeast China). The new species is unique in having the pso formulae as 32/133/33332 dorsally and 0/000/0001(0) ventrally, and the ventral psx formula as 3/000/221000. A key to all known species of the genus is given.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

A new species of micro-mangrove crab of the genus Haberma Ng & Schubart, 2002 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Sesarmidae) from Hong Kong
The sesarmid genus Haberma Ng & Schubart, 2002, currently contains two species of small mangrove crabs with the first two pairs of the male ambulatory legs possessing characteristic subchelate dactyli and propodi. A new species, H. tingkok, is here described from Hong Kong. It can be separated from H. nanum Ng & Schubart, 2002 (from Singapore), and H. kamora Rahayu & Ng, 2005 (from Indonesian Papua) by its carapace shape, proportions of the ambulatory legs, and structures of the male pleon and male first gonopod.
["Crab"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Type material of Platyhelminthes housed in the Helminthological Collection of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute/ FIOCRUZ (CHIOC), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 1979 to 2016 (Rhabditophora, Trematoda and Cestoda)
The second part of the catalogue of type material deposited in the Helminthological Collection of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute/ FIOCRUZ (CHIOC), between 1979 and 2016, is presented, to complement the first list of all types that was published in 1979. This part includes Platyhelminthes other than monogenoids, which were covered in the first part published in September 2016. The present catalogue comprises type material for 104 species, distributed across three classes, 40 families and 75 genera. Species names are listed systematically, followed by type host, infection site, type locality and specimens with their collection numbers and references. The classification and the nomenclature of the species have been updated.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control"]

Helobdella blinni sp. n. (Hirudinida, Glossiphoniidae) a new species inhabiting Montezuma Well, Arizona, USA
A new leech species Helobdella blinni sp. n., is described from Montezuma Well, an isolated travertine spring mound located in central Arizona, USA. In its native habitat, H. blinni had been previously identified as Helobdella stagnalis (Linnaeus, 1758), which was later reclassified to Helobdella modesta (Verrill, 1872). Similar to the European H. stagnalis and North American H. modesta, H. blinni has six pairs of testisacs, five pairs of smooth crop caecae, one lobed pair of posteriorly-directed crop caecae, one pair of eyes, a nuchal scute, and diffuse salivary glands. However, the pigmentation of this new species ranges from light to dark brown, unlike H. modesta which tends to be light grey in color. Also, H. modesta produces a clutch of 12-–35 pink eggs, whereas H. blinni produces smaller clutches of white eggs (7–14, 0.5 ± 0.15 mm, N = 7) and consequently broods fewer young (1–14, 7 ± 3.3 mm, N = 97). Helobdella blinni are also able to breed year-round due to the constant warm water conditions in Montezuma Well. Their breeding season is not restricted by seasonal temperatures. These species are morphologically similar, however, comparing the COI mtDNA sequences of H. blinni with sequences from nearby populations of H. modesta and other Helobdella species from GenBank indicate that H. blinni is genetically distinct from these other Helobdella populations.
["Leech"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Study of Mite Species"]

A new feather mite species of the genus Proterothrix Gaud, 1968 (Acarina, Proctophyllodidae) from the Large Niltava, Niltava grandis (Passeriformes, Muscicapidae) – an integrative description
A new species of the feather mite genus Proterothrix (Proctophyllodidae: Pterodectinae) is described from the Large NiltavaNiltava grandis (Blyth) (Passeriformes, Muscicapidae) in northeast India (Meghalaya, Jaintia Hills, Shnongrim village). Proterothrix chachulae Constantinescu, sp. n. differs from all known species of the genus by having in males the aedeagus with bilobate tip. The morphological description is supplemented with molecular characterisation of a fragment f near the 5` terminus of the mitochondrial COI gene.
["Bird parasitology and diseases", "Study of Mite Species", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Taxonomic notes on the armored spiders of the families Pacullidae and Tetrablemmidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from Singapore
Eight species of armored spiders belonging to two families, Pacullidae Simon, 1894 and Tetrablemmidae O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1873, are reported from Singapore. Five species are documented as new to science: Paculla bukittimahensis Lin & Li, sp. n. (male and female), P. globosa Lin & Li, sp. n. (male and female), Ablemma malacca Lin & Li, sp. n. (male and female), Singaporemma lenachanae Lin & Li, sp. n. (male and female), and Sulaimania brevis Lin & Li, sp. n. (male). The three known species are Brignoliella besutensis Lin, Li & Jäger, 2012, B. michaeli Lehtinen, 1981, and Singaporemma singulare Shear, 1978, of which the female of B. besutensis is described for the first time. For comparison, types of Singaporemma adjacens Lehtinen, 1981 from Vietnam, Singaporemma halongense Lehtinen, 1981 from Vietnam, Singaporemma singulare from Singapore and Sulaimania vigelandi Lehtinen, 1981 from Malaysia are studied and photographed.

Two psammophilic noctuids newly associated with beach plum, Prunus maritima (Rosaceae): The Dune Noctuid (Sympistis riparia) and Coastal Heathland Cutworm (Abagrotis benjamini) in Northeastern North America (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae)
Beach plum, Prunus maritima Marshall, 1785 not Wangenh., 1787 (Rosaceae), currently under development as a potential crop, represents an under-acknowledged host plant for several Lepidoptera that have undergone declines in the northeastern USA. The Coastal Heathland Cutworm, Abagrotis nefascia (Smith, 1908), and the Dune Noctuid, Sympistis riparia (Morrison, 1875), are unrelated species of psammophilic noctuines (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) regularly encountered on a localized basis in coastal southern New England and New York, and whose precise life history requirements are undocumented. We inferred and, based on field observation and rearing, corroborated beach plum as a larval host for these species in Massachusetts; the plant’s role in sustaining other moths with limited or contracting regional distributions is discussed. Sympistis riparia, belonging to a widely distributed complex of closely related species, has been associated specifically with both maritime and freshwater dunes. The eastern populations of Abagrotis nefascia represent a conspicuous range disjunction, separated from the nearest western populations by more than 2000 miles, and originally described by Franclemont as race benjamini of A. crumbi, both later synonymized with A. nefascia. Following examination of types and other material, an evaluation of putatively diagnostic features from both the original description and our own observations, genitalic characters, and the results of provisional barcode analyses, Abagrotis benjamini Franclemont, stat. rev., is elevated to the rank of a valid species rather than representing eastern populations of Abagrotis nefascia (=crumbi) to which it originally referred.
["Abagrotis"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Ten new genera of Agathidini (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Agathidinae) from Southeast Asia
The Agathidini (Braconidae: Agathidinae) genera of Southeast Asia are revised based on a phylogenetic analysis of COI and 28S. Ten new genera are proposed, i.e., Agathigma, Asperagathis, Chimaeragathis, Cymagathis, Liragathis, Leuroagathis, Scabagathis, Trochantagathis, Xanthagathis, and Zosteragathis. An illustrated key to the Southeast Asian genera of this tribe is presented. Species from Thailand are keyed and described for all genera of Agathidini except Bassus and Zosteragathis which have too many species for this publication and will be dealt with separately. The phylogenetic analyses indicate that Bassuss.s. is polyphyletic. However, there are no morphological characters to support this and we have retained the current concept of Bassus, which is basically those Agathidini with simple tarsal claws. Numerous new combinations are proposed based on species that are moved to the newly erected genera.

Cherax warsamsonicus, a new species of crayfish from the Kepala Burung (Vogelkop) peninsula in West Papua, Indonesia (Crustacea, Decapoda, Parastacidae)
A new species, Cherax warsamsonicus sp. n., endemic to the Warsamson River drainage, in the western part of the Kepala Burung (Vogelkop) peninsula, West Papua, Indonesia, is described, figured and compared with its closely related species, Cherax misolicus Holthuis, 1949. The new species may be easily distinguished from C. misolicus by the shape of the rostrum, absence of setae on the rostrum, the shape of the chelae, the presence of 3-4 cervical spines and by using sequence divergence, which is substantial for considering C. warsamsonicus sp. n. to be a new species. The new species is collected and exported for ornamental purposes and its commercial name in the pet trade is Cherax “irian jaya”, Cherax “pink coral”, or Cherax “hoa creek“. Due to similar colouration it is often confused with the recently described Cherax pulcher Lukhaup, 2015.
["Cherax"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Four new species of the millipede genus Eutrichodesmus Silvestri, 1910 from Laos, including two with reduced ozopores (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Haplodesmidae)
Laos has large areas of primary forest with a largely unexplored fauna. This is evidenced by millipedes, class Diplopoda, with fewer than 60 species being recorded from the country. In the widespread Southeast Asian “Star Millipede” genus Eutrichodesmus Silvestri, 1910 (family Haplodesmidae), only two of 49 recorded species have been found in Laos. Four new species of Star Millipedes are here described from caves in Laos: Eutrichodesmus steineri Liu & Wesener, sp. n., E. deporatus Liu & Wesener, sp. n., E. paraster Liu & Wesener, sp. n. and E. parvus Liu & Wesener, sp. n.. A fifth species, for which only a female is available, remains unnamed. The defensive glands (ozopores) are found to be strongly or entirely suppressed in two of the new species, E. deporatus Liu & Wesener, sp. n. and E. paraster Liu & Wesener, sp. n., both troglobionts, which is new to the family. All of the Star Millipedes were collected during Northern Lao-European Cave Project faunal surveys conducted by the Senckenberg Museum, Frankfurt. A key to the six species of Eutrichodesmus currently known to occur in Laos is provided.
["Millipede"]

Notaulax yamasui sp. n. (Annelida, Sabellidae) from Okinawa and Ogasawara, Japan, with notes on its ecology
The polychaete Notaulax yamasui sp. n. (Sabellidae) is described from Okinawa and Ogasawara, south Japan, where it was found living embedded in a dead skeleton of the coral Porites sp. The new species is characterized by the presence of a pigmented sub-distal swelling on the tips of the crown radioles, a unique feature among species of the genus. Besides, its collar chaetae have an L-shape orientation, and the dorsal basal flanges of the branchial lobes are long and have a dorsal joint.
["Boring species"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

A new species of terrestrial-breeding frog (Amphibia, Craugastoridae, Pristimantis) from high elevations of the Pui Pui Protected Forest in central Peru
We describe a new species of Pristimantis from upper montane forests and high Andean grasslands of the Pui Pui Protected Forest and its close surroundings, Región Junín, central Peru. The description of the new species is based on 34 specimens found at elevations between 3400 and 3936 m a.s.l. Pristimantis attenboroughi sp. n. is characterized by a snout–vent length of 14.6–19.2 mm in adult males (n = 21), 19.2–23.0 mm in adult females (n = 10), and is compared morphologically and genetically with other taxonomically and biogeographically relevant species of Pristimantis. The new species is characterized by having narrow digits that lack circumferential grooves, irregularly shaped, discontinuous dorsolateral folds, and absence of both tympanic membrane and tympanic annulus. The high similarity in morphology between P. attenboroughi sp. n. and members of the Andean genera Phrynopus and Bryophryne provides an example for convergent evolution, and highlights the importance of using molecular data to justify generic assignment. Pristimantis attenboroughi sp. n. is most similar to Phrynopus chaparroi from the Región Junín, suggesting that the generic placement of this species needs to be revised. Phylogenetically the new species belongs to the Pristimantis danae species Group, a clade that includes several Pristimantis species distributed in the montane forests of central Peru, including P. albertus, P. aniptopalmatus, P. ornatus, and P. stictogaster.
["Legal Studies and Policies", "Educational Research and Methods", "Contemporary Christian Leadership and Education"]

Taxonomic revision and cladistic analysis of Avicularia Lamarck, 1818 (Araneae, Theraphosidae, Aviculariinae) with description of three new aviculariine genera
The genus Avicularia Lamarck, 1818 is revised and all species are rediagnosed. The type species, described as Aranea avicularia Linnaeus, 1758, is the oldest mygalomorph species described and its taxonomic history is extensive and confusing. Cladistic analyses using both equal and implied weights were carried out with a matrix of 46 taxa from seven theraphosid subfamilies, and 71 morphological and ecological characters. The optimal cladogram found with Piwe and concavity = 6 suggests Avicularia and Aviculariinae are monophyletic. Subfamily Aviculariinae includes Avicularia Lamarck, 1818, Typhochlaena C. L. Koch, 1850, Tapinauchenius Ausserer, 1871, Stromatopelma Karsch, 1881, Ephebopus Simon, 1892, Psalmopoeus Pocock, 1895, Heteroscodra Pocock, 1899, Iridopelma Pocock, 1901, Pachistopelma Pocock, 1901, Ybyrapora gen. n., Caribena gen. n., and Antillena gen. n. The clade is supported by well-developed scopulae on tarsi and metatarsi, greatly extended laterally. Avicularia synapomorphies are juveniles bearing black tarsi contrasting with other lighter articles; spermathecae with an accentuated outwards curvature medially, and male palpal bulb with embolus medial portion and tegulum’s margin form an acute angle in retrolateral view. Avicularia is composed of twelve species, including three new species: Avicularia avicularia (Linnaeus, 1818), Avicularia glauca Simon, 1891, Avicularia variegata (F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896) stat. n., A. minatrix Pocock, 1903, Avicularia taunayi (Mello-Leitão, 1920), Avicularia juruensis Mello-Leitão, 1923, Avicularia rufa Schiapelli & Gerschman, 1945, Avicularia purpurea Kirk, 1990, A. hirschii Bullmer et al. 2006, Avicularia merianae sp. n., A. lynnae sp. n., and A. caei sp. n.. Avicularia species are distributed throughout Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. Three new genera are erected to accommodate former Avicularia species: Caribena gen. n., composed of Caribena laeta (C. L. Koch, 1842), comb. n. and Caribena versicolor (Walckenaer, 1837), comb. n.; Antillena gen. n., with a single species, Antillena rickwesti (Bertani & Huff, 2013), comb. n., both from the Caribbean; and Ybyrapora gen. n., composed of Ybyrapora sooretama (Bertani & Fukushima, 2009), comb. n., Ybyrapora gamba (Bertani & Fukushima, 2009), comb. n. and Ybyrapora diversipes (C. L. Koch, 1842), comb. n. from Brazilian rainforest. The subspecies Avicularia avicularia variegata F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896 is elevated to species status, resulting in the combination Avicularia variegata (F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896) stat. n.. The following new synonymies are established: Avicularia velutina Simon 1889, Avicularia exilis Strand, 1907, Avicularia ancylochyra Mello-Leitão, 1923, Avicularia cuminami Mello-Leitão, 1930, and Avicularia nigrotaeniata Mello-Leitão, 1940 are junior synonyms of A. avicularia; Avicularia bicegoi Mello-Leitão, 1923 is a junior synonym of A. variegata stat. n., and Avicularia urticans Schmidt, 1994 is a junior synonym of Avicularia juruensis Mello-Leitão, 1923. Species transferred to other genera: Avicularia affinis (Nicolet, 1849) is transferred to Euathlus Ausserer, 1875, making the new combination Euathlus affinis (Nicolet, 1849), comb. n.; Avicularia subvulpina Strand, 1906 is transferred to Grammostola Simon, 1892, making the new combination Grammostola subvulpina (Strand, 1906), comb. n.; Avicularia aymara (Chamberlin, 1916) is transferred to Thrixopelma Schmidt, 1994, making the new combination Thrixopelma aymara (Chamberlin, 1916), comb. n.; Avicularia leporina (C. L. Koch, 1841) and Avicularia plantaris (C. L. Koch, 1842) are transferred to Iridopelma Pocock, 1901, making the new combinations Iridopelma leporina (C. L. Koch, 1841), comb. n. and Iridopelma plantaris (C. L. Koch, 1842), comb. n.; the two last species are considered nomina dubia. The following species are considered nomina dubia: Avicularia hirsutissima (C. L. Koch, 1842) nomen dubium; Ischnocolus hirsutum Ausserer, 1875 nomen dubium; Ischnocolus gracilis Keyserling, 1891 nomen dubium; Avicularia arabica (Strand, 1908) nomen dubium; Araneus hirtipes (Fabricius, 1787) nomen dubium; Avicularia ochracea (Perty, 1833) nomen dubium; Avicularia walckenaerii (Perty, 1833) nomen dubium; Avicularia testacea (C. L. Koch, 1841) nomen dubium; Avicularia detrita (C. L. Koch, 1842) nomen dubium; Ischnocolus doleschalli Ausserer, 1871 nomen dubium; Avicularia metallica Ausserer, 1875 nomen dubium; Avicularia rapax (Ausserer, 1875) nomen dubium; Avicularia holmbergi Thorell, 1890 nomen dubium; Avicularia aurantiaca Bauer, 1996 nomen dubium; Avicularia azuraklaasi Tesmoingt, 1996 nomen dubium; Avicularia huriana Tesmoingt, 1996 nomen dubium; Avicularia ulrichea Tesmoingt, 1996 nomen dubium; Avicularia braunshauseni Tesmoingt, 1999 nomen dubium; Avicularia geroldi Tesmoingt, 1999 nomen dubium; Avicularia soratae Strand, 1907 nomen dubium; Avicularia fasciculata Strand, 1907 nomen dubium; Avicularia fasciculata clara Strand, 1907 nomen dubium; and Avicularia surinamensis Strand, 1907 nomen dubium. Avicularia vestiaria (De Geer, 1778) is considered nomen nudum. Keys are provided for identification of all aviculariine genera, as well as to Avicularia, Caribena gen. n., Ybyrapora gen. n. and Antillena gen. n. species. Maps with records and information on species habitat are also presented. Lectotypes are newly designed for A. avicularia, A. variegata stat. n., A. juruensis, C. laeta comb. n., E. affinis comb. n. and a neotype is established for C. versicolor comb. n.
["Birdspider"]

Taxonomy of the Cryptopygus complex. II. Affinity of austral Cryptopygus s.s. and Folsomia, with the description of two new Folsomia species (Collembola, Isotomidae)
Folsomia minorae sp. n. and F. australica sp. n. are described from New Zealand and Australia, respectively. Their possible affinity to two different groups of Cryptopygussensu stricto is discussed. Attention is paid to the variability of sensillary patterns of the genital segment in Cryptopygus: mainly, all s-chaetae are subequal, but in more advanced forms the dorsal triplet, lateral duplet or either of them become macrochaeta-like in length. Cryptopygus ulrikeae (= Folsomia ulrikeae Najt & Thibaud, 1987), comb. n. is given a new generic position.

A new species of Poropoea Foerster from Africa (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Trichogrammatidae)
A new species of Poropoea Foerster (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Trichogrammatidae) was obtained from eggs of attelabid beetles (Coleoptera: Attelabidae) associated with Combretum sp. (Myrtales, Combretaceae). This species is described from Ogooué-Ivindo province in north-eastern Gabon. The new species is easily distinguished from the known members of the genus Poropoea by the following combination of characters: female antennal club unsegmented, premarginal vein of the fore wing with a nodular premarginal vein and the stigma of the stigmal vein black, the wing lacks the RS1 track; front and hind legs more robust than the middle leg and with coxa and femur markedly enlarged, and ovipositor exserted to one-third of the gaster length. Morphological features of this new species are discussed and illustrated. A key to females of Poropoea species lacking the Rs1 track in the fore wing has been constructed and is presented here.
["Attelabidae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Larval morphology of Phratora koreana Takizawa, 1985 with a key to the larvae of the Palaearctic Phratora species (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Chrysomelinae)
The first and third instar larvae of Phratora koreana Takizawa, 1985 are described and illustrated in detail for the first time. Morphological changes in the pigmentation, tubercular pattern and defensive glands during the larval development are discussed. The life cycle and host-plant of P. koreana and a key to the larvae of the Palaearctic Phratora species are also provided.
["First and third instar larvae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of Tipula (Vestiplex) from Southern China based on morphological and molecular data, with redescription of Tipula (Vestiplex) bicalcarata (Diptera, Tipulidae, Tipulinae)
Two new species of subgenus Tipula (Vestiplex) Bezzi, 1924, T. (V.) leigongshanensis Men & Young, sp. n. and T. (V.) maoershanensis Men & Young, sp. n. are described and illustrated. Tipula (Vestiplex) bicalcarata Savchenko, 1965 is redescribed and illustrated based on additional morphological characters. Partial mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences of these three species are provided. Pairwise genetic distances among two new species and related species, T. (V.) bicalcarata, T. (V.) coxitalis Alexander, 1935, and T. (V.) sternotuberculata Alexander, 1935 range from 0.028 to 0.091 using Kimura-2-parameter model. Diagnostic features of the sperm pump for taxonomic use are discussed.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

More new records of spider wasps from Colombia (Hymenoptera, Pompilidae)
Aporinellus Banks, Austrochares Banks and Dicranoplius Haupt are new generic records for Colombia, as well as the species Dipogon ariel Banks, Evagetes peruana Banks, and Euplaniceps notabilis (Smith). Five new combinations are formally endorsed: Aimatocare argentinica (Banks), comb. n.; Aimatocare longula (Banks), comb. n.; Aimatocare imitator (Evans), comb. n.; Aimatocare impensa (Evans), comb. n.; Aimatocare vitrea (Fox), comb. n. Although these names have been used in Pompilidae, no formal nomenclatural act had been proposed. The presence of Chirodamus paramicola Roig-Alsina, previously reported with uncertainty, is confirmed. Finally, a new combination for Euplaniceps notabilis (Smith), comb. n. is proposed based on molecular phylogenetics and morphological data. The Colombian fauna of Pompilidae sums up to 38 genera and approximately 150 species.
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Two genera of Mymaridae (Hymenoptera) new to Africa, a remarkable new species of Anaphes and new generic synonymy
Bakkendorfia Mathot, syn. n. is placed in synonymy under Cleruchus Enock and its only described species transferred as Cleruchus musangae (Mathot), comb. n. Anaphes quinquearticulatus Huber & Triapitsyn, sp. n. is described; it is the only known Anaphes Haliday species with a 5-segmented funicle in females. Two genera are reported for the first time from the Afrotropical region and two species are described: Paranaphoidea (Idiocentrus) africana Huber & Triapitsyn, sp. n., and Allanagrus occidentalis Huber & Triapitsyn, sp. n.
["Mymaridae"]

A review of the Neotropical genus Bidessodes Régimbart, 1895 including description of four new species (Coleoptera, Adephaga, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Bidessini)
The Neotropical genus Bidessodes Régimbart, 1895 is reviewed. Four new species are described, B. chlorus Miller, sp. n., B. erythros Miller, sp. n., B. leukus Miller, sp. n., and B. melas Miller, sp. n., bringing the total number of species in the genus to 20. A key to species is provided. Important diagnostic features are illustrated and described and distributions of all species based on examined specimens and published records are provided. Recognition of the subgenera of Bidessodes is not justified, and the two names Hughbosdineus Spangler, 1981 syn. n. and Youngulus Spangler, 1981 syn. n., described at the genus rank, are placed in synonymy with Bidessodes.
["Water beetles"]

Myobiid mites (Trombidiformes, Myobiidae) of the golden bat Mimon cozumelae from Mexico. Description of the male and tritonymph of Ioanella mimon and new records of Eudusbabekia mimon
The male and the tritonymph of Ioanella mimon are described for the first time parasitizing to Mimon cozumelae from Yucatan, Mexico. Male of I. mimon is characterized by the presence of legs I with the tibia and tarsus fused forming a small complex devoided of apical claws, legs II–IV with two claws, setae vi at level of anterior end of genital plate, genital plate rounded with an anterior projection, all intercoxal setae short; while the tritonymph is characterized by the presence of legs I unequal; legs II–IV with 2-1-1 claws, and posterior region of dorsal idiosoma with 3 pairs of cylindrical and toothed setae. Additionally, we include new locality and host records for Eudusbabekia mimon which was also found on M. cozumelae. Both species were described originally in association with Mimon bennettii at Bartica, Guyana.
["Myobiidae"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

A review of the Pseudobarbus afer (Peters, 1864) species complex (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) in the eastern Cape Fold Ecoregion of South Africa
The Eastern Cape redfin, Pseudobarbus afer, has long been considered to be a single widespread and variable species occurring in multiple isolated river systems in the Cape Fold Ecoregion (CFE) at the southern tip of Africa. Mitochondrial cytochrome b and control region sequence data of individuals from populations currently assigned to P. afer across the species’ distribution range revealed existence of four deeply divergent taxonomic units: (i) the Mandela lineage confined to the Sundays, Swartkops and Baakens river systems, (ii) the Krom lineage endemic to the Krom River system, (iii) the St Francis lineage occurring in the Gamtoos and adjacent river systems, and (iv) the Forest lineage occurring in several coastal river systems from the Tsitsikamma to the Klein Brak River system. The Forest lineage is closely related to P. phlegethon from the Olifants River system on the west coast of South Africa, suggesting that it does not belong to P. afer s.l. Herein we focus on the three lineages within the P. afer s.l. complex and provide new diagnosis for P. afer s.s (Mandela lineage), revalidate P. senticeps (Krom lineage) as a distinct species, and describe a new species P. swartzi (St Francis lineage). The three species exhibit subtle differences, which explains why they were previously considered to represent a single variable and widespread species. Pseudobarbus senticeps differs from both P. afer and P. swartzi by having fewer (i.e. larger) scales (25–33, mode 29 lateral line scale series; 10–12, mode 11 circumpeduncular scales) and presence of a lateral stripe which terminates in a conspicuous triangular blotch at the base of the caudal fin. Long barbels which reach or surpass the vertical through the posterior edge of the eye further separate P. senticeps from P. afer s.s. which possesses simple short barbels which do not reach the vertical through the posterior margin of the eye. Pseudobarbus afer s.s differs from P. swartzi sp. n. by possession of fewer scale rows along the lateral line (29–35, mode 32 vs 34–37, mode 36 in P. swartzi), fewer scales around the caudal peduncle (12–16, mode 12 vs 13–17, mode 16 in P. swartzi) and a distinct mesh or net-like pigmentation pattern on latero-ventral scales.
["Cape Fold Ecoregion"]

Redescription of Potamonautes sidneyi (Rathbun, 1904) (Decapoda, Potamonautidae) and description of a new congeneric species from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
A new species of freshwater crab, Potamonautes danielsi sp. n., is described from the southern region of the KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. Potamonautes danielsi most closely resembles P. sidneyi which is re-described here, but can be distinguished by a suite of key morphological characters including carapace shape and width, slim pereopods, inflated propodi of the chelipeds, and the shape and terminal segment length:subterminal segment length ratio of the 1st gonopod. In a previous study (Gouws et al. 2015), a 9.2–11.8 % divergence was found in the mitochondrial COI and 16S genes of the P. sidneyi clade, allowing for the delineation of a new species. Despite the clear molecular distinction between the two species, it is difficult to separate them based on individual morphological characters, as there is a great deal of overlap even among key features. The new species is found in slow-moving mountain streams and pools at high altitudes between Umhlanga and Mtamvuna, in KwaZulu-Natal.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Designation of a neotype and redescription of Hesione reticulata von Marenzeller, 1879 from Japan (Annelida, Hesionidae)
The hesionid polychaete Hesione reticulata von Marenzeller, 1879 was described from Enoshima Island, Japan and has been recorded also from the Red Sea. Depending on researchers, it has been regarded as either a distinct species or synonymous with older established ones. The type specimen has been lost. In order to clarify its taxonomic status, H. reticulata is herein redescribed, illustrated, and a neotype is proposed based on recent material collected near the type locality. The diagnostic features include the presence of several dorsal, discontinuous longitudinal bands, interrupted by pale segmental spots; prostomium with tiny antennae; a tuberculated dorsal integument; acicular lobes double; and neurochaetal blades with guards approaching the distal tooth. The dorsal color pattern in life enables a clear distinction from similar species such as H. intertexta Grube, 1878 amongst others. Mitochondrial COI barcoding sequences are deposited in the DNA Data Bank of Japan. A key to Hesione species from Japan is also included.
["Neurochaetal blades"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Four new species of the genus Lathrolestes Förster, 1869 from South Korea (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ctenopelmatinae)
Four new species of the genus Lathrolestes Förster, 1869 are discovered from South Korea: L. redimiculus Reshchikov & Lee, sp. n., L. sexmaculatus Reshchikov & Lee, sp. n., L. taebaeksanensis Reshchikov & Lee, sp. n., and L. ungnyeo Reshchikov & Lee, sp. n. This is the first record of the genus from South Korea.
["Eastern Palaearctic"]

New record of a phoretic flea associated with earwigs (Dermaptera, Arixeniidae) and a redescription of the bat flea Lagaropsylla signata (Siphonaptera, Ischnopsyllidae)
Lagaropsylla signata (Wahlgren, 1903), previously known only from the Island of Java, Indonesia is redescribed and reported for the first time in Deer Cave, Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia (west coast of Borneo). Many were found clinging to the earwig Arixenia esau Jordan, 1909. A similar account of a phoretic flea (Lagaropsylla turba Smit, 1958) on the same species of cave-dwelling earwig has been reported in peninsular Malaysia in a well-documented association with the hairless naked bulldog bat, Cheiromeles torquatus Horsfield, 1824. The association of L. signata with A. esau is parallel to the evolution and co-existence with bats in Deer Cave just as in the case of L. turba, A. esau, and C. torquatus. The evidence suggests that L. turba and L. signata are obligate phoretic parasites whose survival depends on A. esau to access a bat host. Arixenia esau is reported for the first time in Deer Cave and the occurrence of L. signata on the island of Borneo represented a new record, previously being found only on the island of Java. Images of L. signata attached to A. esau are provided. Xeniaria jacobsoni (Burr, 1912), often associated with A. esau in other geographical areas, was not present in the material examined from Deer Cave. The natural history of the earwig genera Arixenia Jordan, 1909 and Xeniaria Maa, 1974 are discussed and summarized relative to their associations with phoretic fleas and their bat hosts.
["Arixenia"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

On some new species of Ancorabolidae Sars, 1909 from the Gulf of California: the genera Ceratonotus Sars, 1909, and Dendropsyllus Conroy-Dalton, 2003 (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida)
Two new species of two genera of the family Ancorabolidae, Ceratonotus elongatus sp. n. and Dendropsyllus californiensis sp. n., found at 1642 m and 1759 m depth, respectively, in the Southern Trough of Guaymas Basin, are described. Ceratonotus elongatus sp. n. was attributed to that genus by a series of character states of which the lack of dendroid dorsal processes on the P6-bearing somite and the presence of such processes on the first abdominal somite were definitive. This species was observed to be very close to C. thistlei Conroy-Dalton, 2003 from the San Diego Trough, and can be separated by a number of traits of which the elongated sensilla-bearing dorsal tubercles on the second abdominal somite in the new species was definitive. Dendropsyllus californiensis sp. n. has been placed within that genus given the presence of four geniculate setae on P1EXP2 and one seta on P1ENP2, one inner seta on P3EXP3, and lack of inner armature on P4EXP3. Dendropsyllus californiensis sp. n. appears to be more closely related to D. thomasi Conroy-Dalton, 2003 and D. magellanicus (George & Schminke, 1998) on account of the spinulose nature of the basis of the maxilliped, the two-segmented P4ENP, and the fused condition of the P5 baseoendopod and exopod, and seems to be even more closely related to D. thomasi by the degree of development of the lateroventral processes of the cephalothorax. Dendropsyllus californiensis sp. n. can be separated from its congeners by the relative length of the first antennulary segment, relative length of the caudal rami, and by the armature formula of P3ENP2.

Pseudomacrochenus wusuae sp. n., a new species from Sichuan, China (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
Pseudomacrochenus wusuae sp. n. (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Lamiini) is described from Sichuan, China. Relevant morphological characters are illustrated by colour plates and a differential diagnosis of the new species from its relatives is provided.
["Cerambycidae"]

Review of Dibrachys Förster from China (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae)
Twelve species of Dibrachys Förster are studied from China, of which four new species, D. golmudica Jiao & Xiao, sp. n., D. kunmingica Jiao & Xiao, sp. n., D. liaoi Jiao & Xiao, sp. n. and D. qinghaiensis Jiao & Xiao, sp. n., and four newly recorded species, D. braconidis (Ferrière & Faure), D. confusus (Girault), D. hians Bouček and D. maculipennis Szelényi, are reported. A key to Chinese Dibrachys and illustrations of external features of the species are provided.
["China Mainland"]

A review of the genus Metalype Klapálek, with descriptions of three new species from China (Trichoptera, Psychomyiidae)
Three new species of Metalype from China, Metalype hubeiensis Qiu & Morse, sp. n., M. shexianensis Qiu & Morse, sp. n., and M. truncata Qiu & Morse, sp. n., are described and illustrated. Metalype uncatissima (Botosaneanu, 1970) is reported from China for the first time. The differences between genus Metalype and genus Psychomyia are discussed and four Psychomyia species are transferred to Metalype: Metalype holzenthali (Schmid, 1997); M. klapaleki (Malicky, 1995a); M. kumari (Schmid, 1997); and M. nithaiah (Malicky, 2014). A key to the males of Metalype species of the world is provided.
["Annulipalpia"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Diversity and distribution of polyphagan water beetles (Coleoptera) in the Lake St Lucia system, South Africa
Water beetles belonging to the suborder Polyphaga vary greatly in larval and adult ecologies, and fulfil important functional roles in shallow-water ecosystems by processing plant material, scavenging and through predation. This study investigates the species richness and composition of aquatic polyphagan assemblages in and around the St Lucia estuarine lake (South Africa), within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A total of 32 sites were sampled over three consecutive collection trips between 2013 and 2015. The sites encompassed a broad range of aquatic habitats, being representative of the variety of freshwater and estuarine environments present on the St Lucia coastal plain. Thirty-seven polyphagan taxa were recorded during the dedicated surveys of this study, in addition to seven species-level records from historical collections. Most beetles recorded are relatively widespread Afrotropical species and only three are endemic to South Africa. Samples were dominated by members of the Hydrophilidae (27 taxa), one of which was new to science (Hydrobiomorpha perissinottoi Bilton, 2016). Despite the fauna being dominated by relatively widespread taxa, five represent new records for South Africa, highlighting the poor state of knowledge on water beetle distribution patterns in the region. Wetlands within the dense woodland characterising the False Bay region of St Lucia supported a distinct assemblage of polyphagan beetles, whilst sites occurring on the Eastern and Western Shores of Lake St Lucia were very similar in their beetle composition. In line with the Afrotropical region as a whole, the aquatic Polyphaga of St Lucia appear to be less diverse than the Hydradephaga, for which 68 species were recorded during the same period. However, the results of the present study, in conjunction with those for Hydradephaga, show that the iSimangaliso Wetland Park contains a high beetle diversity. The ongoing and future ecological protection of not only the estuarine lake itself, but also surrounding freshwater wetlands, is imperative and should be taken into consideration during future management planning for the park.

World reclassification of the Cardiophorinae (Coleoptera, Elateridae), based on phylogenetic analyses of morphological characters
The prior genus-level classification of Cardiophorinae had never been assessed phylogenetically, and not revised since 1906. A phylogeny for Cardiophorinae and Negastriinae is inferred by Bayesian analyses of 163 adult morphological characters to revise the generic classification. Parsimony analysis is also performed to assess the sensitivity of the Bayesian results to the choice of optimality criterion. Bayesian hypothesis testing rejected monophyly for: Negastriinae; Cardiophorinae (but monophyletic after addition of four taxa); Cardiophorini; cardiophorine genera Aphricus LeConte, 1853; Aptopus Eschscholtz, 1829; Cardiophorus Eschscholtz, 1829; Cardiotarsus Eschscholtz, 1836; Paracardiophorus Schwarz, 1895; Phorocardius Fleutiaux, 1931; Dicronychussensu Platia, 1994; Dicronychussensu Méquignon, 1931; Craspedostethussensu Schwarz, 1906 (i.e., including Tropidiplus Fleutiaux, 1903); Paracardiophorussensu Cobos, 1970, although well-supported alternative classifications were available for only some. Based on taxonomic interpretation of phylogenetic results: Nyctorini is syn. n. of Cardiophorini; Globothorax Fleutiaux, 1891 (Physodactylinae), Margogastrius Schwarz, 1903 (Physodactylinae), and Pachyelater Lesne, 1897 (Dendrometrinae) are transferred to Cardiophorinae. The following changes are proposed for cardiophorine genera: Aptopus Eschscholtz, 1829 is redefined to exclude Horistonotus-like species; Coptostethus Wollaston, 1854 is subgenus of Cardiophorus; Dicronychus Brullé, 1832 and Diocarphus Fleutiaux, 1947, Metacardiophorus Gurjeva, 1966, Platynychus Motschulsky, 1858, and Zygocardiophorus Iablokoff-Khnzorian and Mardjanian, 1981 are placed at genus rank; Paracardiophorus Schwarz, 1895 is redefined based on North American and Eurasian species only; Horistonotus Candèze, 1860 redefined to include species with multiple apices on each side of their tarsal claws; Patriciella Van Zwaluwenburg, 1953 is syn. n. of Aphricus LeConte, 1853; Teslasena Fleutiaux, 1892 (Physodactylinae) is syn. n. of Globothorax Fleutiaux, 1891. The following new genera are described: Austrocardiophorus (type species: Cardiophorus humeralis Fairmaire and Germain, 1860); Chileaphricus (type species: Aphricus chilensis Fleutiaux, 1940); Floridelater (type species: Coptostethus americanus Horn, 1871, transferred from Negastriinae to Cardiophorinae). Paradicronychus (nomen nudum), is syn. n. of Cardiophorus Eschscholtz, 1829. Generic reassignments to make Cardiodontulus, Cardiophorus, Cardiotarsus, Paracardiophorus consistent with phylogenetically revised genus concepts resulted in 84 new combinations. Lectotypes are designated for 29 type species to fix generic concepts: Anelastes femoralis Lucas, 1857; Aphricus chilensis Fleutiaux, 1940; Athous argentatus Abeille de Perrin, 1894; Cardiophorus adjutor Candèze, 1875; Cardiophorus florentini Fleutiaux, 1895; Cardiophorus inflatus Candèze, 1882; Cardiophorus luridipes Candèze, 1860; Cardiophorus mirabilis Candèze, 1860; Cardiophorus musculus Erichson, 1840; Cardiotarsus capensis Candèze, 1860; Cardiotarsus vitalisi Fleutiaux, 1918; Craspedostethus rufiventris Schwarz, 1898; Elater cinereus Herbst, 1784; Elater minutissimus Germar, 1817; Elater sputator Linnaeus, 1758; Elater thoracicus Fabricius, 1801; Eniconyx pullatus Horn, 1884; Esthesopus castaneus Eschscholtz, 1829; Gastrimargus schneideri Schwarz, 1902; Globothorax chevrolati Fleutiaux, 1891; Horistonotus flavidus Candèze, 1860; Horistonotus simplex LeConte, 1863; Lesnelater madagascariensis Fleutiaux, 1935; Oedostethus femoralis LeConte, 1853; Phorocardius solitarius Fleutiaux, 1931; Platynychus indicus Motschulsky, 1858; Platynychus mixtus Fleutiaux, 1931; Triplonychus acuminatus Candèze, 1860; Tropidiplus tellinii Fleutiaux, 1903. A key to genera and diagnoses are provided for all genera and subgenera. A bibliographic synonymy includes references for all taxonomic changes to genera and new species through 2015.
["Cardiophorinae"]

The Lepidoptera of White Sands National Monument, Otero County, New Mexico, USA 9. A new species of Givira Walker (Cossidae, Hypoptinae) dedicated to Delinda Mix, including a list of species of Cossidae recorded from the Monument
The U.S. National Park Service initiated a 10-year study of the Lepidoptera at White Sands National Monument, Otero County, New Mexico in late 2006. Givira delindae sp. n., discovered in 2007 during the first year of study, is described here. The male and female adult moths and genitalia are illustrated. The name is dedicated to Delinda Mix, mother of Steve Mix. The species of Cossidae recorded from the Monument during the study are listed.

Catalog of the Neotropical Trichoptera (Caddisflies)
The Neotropical caddisfly (Trichoptera) fauna is cataloged from a review of over 1,000 literature citations through 2015 (partial 2016) to include 3,262 currently recognized, valid species-group names in 25 families and 155 extant genera. Fourteen subspecies are included in the total as well as 35 fossil species and 1 fossil genus. The region covered includes all of Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Genus-group and species-group synonyms are listed. For each nominal species, information on the type locality, type depository, sex of type, distribution by country, and other pertinent taxonomic or biological information is included. Summary information on taxonomy, phylogeny, distribution, immature stages, and biology are provided for each family and genus where known. An extensive index to all nominal taxa is included to facilitate use of the catalog. The glossosomatid species Mexitrichia usseglioi Rueda Martín & Gibon, is transferred to Mortoniella comb. n.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

The genus Amegilla (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Anthophorini) in Australia: A revision of the subgenera Notomegilla and Zonamegilla
The Australian bees in the subgenera Notomegilla and Zonamegilla of the genus Amegilla are revised. Commonly in Australia the species in these subgenera are called blue-banded bees, although not all species have blue bands. A phylogeny based on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 sequence data was used to delineate the species and a set of morphological criteria was developed for species identification. Strong support was obtained for separating the Australian species into the three subgenera previously proposed on the basis of morphology. Two species, are recognised in the subgenus Notomegilla and eleven new synonymies are proposed. Twelve Australian species are recognised in the subgenus Zonamegilla including four new species: indistincta, karlba, paeninsulae and viridicingulata, and twenty new synonymies are proposed. Keys to the species of both sexes and descriptions or redescriptions of all species are provided. Distribution maps, data on flower visitation and phenology are given.
["blue-banded bee"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The beetle fauna (Insecta, Coleoptera) of the Rawdhat Khorim National Park, Central Saudi Arabia
This study was conducted as a part of a comprehensive baseline survey of insect biodiversity of Rawdhat Khorim National Park (RKNP), Central Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). During this study a total of 262 Coleoptera species belong to 182 genera in 35 families were identified, of which 247 are named at a species level. Fifteen species (6.0%) are apparently endemic to KSA. Thirty-eight species are new to the known beetle fauna of KSA, including 25 species reported from the Arabian Peninsula for the first time. The families Tenebrionidae (45 species), Scarabaeidae (34 species), and Carabidae (27 species) were the most species rich families. About 37% of the beetle abundance was represented by species of Scarabaeidae, especially Aphodius ictericus ghardimaouensis Balthasar. Karumia inaequalis Pic (Dascillidae) was also an abundant species. Approximately 43.5% of beetle species collected during this study are considered very rare taxa in RKNP. The RKNP beetle fauna shows more affinity to Sahro-Arabian (36.4%), Afrotropical-Sahro-Arabian (17.4%) and Palaearctic-Sahro-Arabian (10.5%). Twenty-three species (9.3%) are considered cosmopolitan or subcosmopolitan. The data on month of collection, method of collection, and abundance status within RKNP, together with the distribution within KSA and the general distribution (zoogeography) of each species are presented.
["Arabian fauna"]

Cryptorchestia ruffoi sp. n. from the island of Rhodes (Greece), revealed by morphological and phylogenetic analysis (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Talitridae)
A new Cryptorchestia species, Cryptorchestia ruffoi Latella & Vonk, sp. n. from the island of Rhodes in south-eastern Greece, can be distinguished on the basis of morphological and phylogenetic data. Morphological analysis and DNA sequencing of mitochondrial and nuclear protein-coding genes indicated that this species is related to C. cavimana (Cyprus) and C. garbinii (Mediterranean regions, with a recent northward expansion). Results supported a genetic separation between the Cryptorchestia species of the east Mediterranean regions and those of the northeast Atlantic volcanic islands examined in this study (C. canariensis, C. gomeri, C. guancha, and C. stocki from the Canary islands, C. monticola from Madeira, and C. chevreuxi from the Azores). The Mediterranean and Atlantic Cryptorchestia species appear to be also morphologically distinct. Cryptorchestia ruffoi sp. n., C. cavimana, C. garbinii, and C. kosswigi (Turkish coast) clearly have a small lobe on the male gnathopod 1 merus. This character was the main diagnostic difference between Cryptorchestia (sensu Lowry, 2013) and Orchestia. However, among the six northeast Atlantic island Cryptorchestia species only C. stocki has a small lobe on the merus of gnathopod 1. Reduction or loss of the lobe in the Atlantic Island species cannot be ruled out; however, molecular phylogenetic analysis leads us to presume that this lobe independently evolved between the east Mediterranean Cryptorchestia species and C. stocki from Gran Canaria.
["biogeography"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Iulomorphid millipedes (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Iulomorphidae) of Tasmania, Australia
Tasmanian Iulomorphidae are here assigned to the genera Amastigogonus Brölemann, 1913, Atelomastix Attems, 1911 and Equestrigonus gen. n. Descriptions or redescriptions are given for Amastigogonus danpicola sp. n., A. elephas sp. n., A. fossuliger Verhoeff, 1944, A. hardyi (Chamberlin, 1920), A. hellyeri sp. n., A. michaelsae sp. n., A. orientalis sp. n., A. peninsulensis sp. n., A. tasmanianus Brölemann, 1913 (type species of Amastigogonus), A. verreauxii (Gervais, 1847), Atelomastix bonhami sp. n., A. smithi sp. n. and Equestrigonus tasmaniensis gen. n., sp. n. The synonymy of Amastigogonus nichollsii Verhoeff, 1944 with A. hardyi is accepted, and lectotypes are designated for A. nichollsii and A. tasmanianus.

Taxonomy of the Leptogenys modiglianii species group from southeast Asia (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Ponerinae)
Leptogenys breviloba sp. n., L. curva sp. n., L. itoi sp. n., L. kanaoi sp. n., L. malayana sp. n., and L. modiglianii Emery, 1900 are described from southeast Asia. The Leptogenys modiglianii species group is proposed on the basis of similarities among the six species. An identification key to species in this group from southeast Asia is provided.

Annotated checklist of fish cestodes from South America
An exhaustive literature search supplemented by a critical examination of records made it possible to present an annotated checklist of tapeworms (Cestoda) that, as adults or larvae (metacestodes), parasitize freshwater, brackish water and marine fishes, i.e. cartilaginous and bony fishes, in South America. The current knowledge of their species diversity, host associations and geographical distribution is reviewed. Taxonomic problems are discussed based on a critical evaluation of the literature and information on DNA sequences of individual taxa is provided to facilitate future taxonomic and phylogenetic studies. As expected, the current knowledge is quite uneven regarding the number of taxa and host-associations reported from the principal river basins and marine ecoregions. These differences may not only reflect the actual cestode richness but may also be due to the research effort that has been devoted to unravelling the diversity of these endoparasitic helminths in individual countries. A total of 297 valid species, 61 taxa identified to the generic level, in addition to unidentified cestodes, were recorded from 401 species of fish hosts. Among the recognized cestode orders, 13 have been recorded in South America, with the Onchoproteocephalidea displaying the highest species richness, representing c. 50% of all species diversity. The majority of records include teleost fish hosts (79%) that harbour larval and adult stages of cestodes, whereas stingrays (Myliobatiformes) exhibit the highest proportion of records (39%) among the elasmobranch hosts. Fish cestodes are ubiquitous in South America, being mostly recorded from the Warm Temperate Southeastern Pacific (WTSP; 31%) for marine hosts and the Amazon River basin (45%) for freshwater ones. The following problems were detected during the compilation of literary data: (i) unreliability of many records; (ii) poor taxonomic resolution, i.e. identification made only to the genus or even family level; (iii) doubtful host identification; and (iv) the absence of voucher specimens that would enable us to verify identification. It is thus strongly recommended to always deposit representative specimens in any type of studies, including faunal surveys and ecological studies. An analysis of the proportion of three basic types of studies, i.e. surveys, taxonomic and ecological papers, has shown a considerable increase of ecological studies over the last decade.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control"]

Making the most of your host: the Metrosideros-feeding psyllids (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) of the Hawaiian Islands
The Hawaiian psyllids (Psylloidea, Triozidae) feeding on Metrosideros (Myrtaceae) constitute a remarkable radiation of more than 35 species. This monophyletic group has diversified on a single, highly polymorphic host plant species, Metrosideros polymorpha. Eleven Metrosideros-feeding species included in the Insects of Hawaii by Zimmerman are redescribed, and an additional 25 new species are described. Contrary to previous classifications that placed the Metrosideros-feeders in two genera, Trioza Foerster, 1848 and Kuwayama Crawford, 1911, all 36 named species are placed in Pariaconus Enderlein, 1926; and the relationship of this genus to other Pacific taxa within the family Triozidae, and other Austro-Pacific taxa feeding on host plants in Myrtaceae is clarified. The processes of diversification in Pariaconus include shifts in galling habit, geographic isolation within and between islands, and preferences for different morphotypes of the host plant. Four species groups are recognized: the bicoloratus and minutus groups are free-living or form pit galls, and together with the kamua group (composing all of the Kauai species) form a basal assemblage; the more derived closed gall species in the ohialoha group are found on all major islands except Kauai. The diversification of Pariaconus has likely occurred over several million years. Within island diversification is exemplified in the kamua group, and within species variation in the ohialoha group, but species discovery rates suggest this radiation remains undersampled. Mitochondrial DNA barcodes are provided for 28 of the 36 species. Genetic divergence, intraspecific genetic structure, and parallel evolution of different galling biologies and morphological traits are discussed within a phylogenetic framework. Outgroup analysis for the genus Pariaconus and ancestral character state reconstruction suggest pit-galling may be the ancestral state, and the closest outgroups are Palaearctic-Australasian taxa rather than other Pacific Metrosideros-feeders.
["Gall biology"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

New World species of the genus Calliscelio Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae, Scelioninae)
The genus Calliscelio Ashmead is presumed to be a diverse group of parasitoids of the eggs of crickets (Orthoptera: Gryllidae). A least one species has been found to be an important factor in depressing cricket pest populations. The New World species of Calliscelio are revised. Forty-two species are recognized, 3 are redescribed: C. bisulcatus (Kieffer), C. laticinctus Ashmead, C. rubriclavus (Ashmead), comb. n.; and 38 are described as new: C. absconditum Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. absum Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. alcoa Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. amadoi Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. armila Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. bidens Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. brachys Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. brevinotaulus Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. brevitas Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. carinigena Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. crater Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. crena Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. eboris Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. extenuatus Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. flavicauda Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. foveolatus Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. gatineau Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. glaber Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. granulatus Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. latifrons Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. levis Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. longius Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. magnificus Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. migma Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. minutia Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. paraglaber Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. pararemigio Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. prolixus Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. punctatifrons Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. remigio Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. ruga Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. rugicoxa Chen & Masner, sp. n., C. sfina Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. storea Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. suni Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. telum Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. torqueo Chen & Johnson, sp. n., C. virga Chen & Johnson, sp. n. Four species are treated as junior synonyms of Calliscelio rubriclavus (Ashmead): Anteris nigriceps Ashmead, syn. n., Caloteleia marlattii Ashmead, syn. n., Caloteleia grenadensis Ashmead, syn. n., and Macroteleia ruskini Girault, syn. n.
["Egg parasitoid"]

A new genus and two new species of Southeast Asian Bidessini as well as new synonyms for Oceanian species (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
Rompindessus jenisi Balke, Bergsten & Hendrich, gen. n. et sp. n. is described from near Rompin village in West Malaysia. The new genus is characterized by the presence of an occipital line and basal pronotal striae, the presence of a thick anterior bead on clypeus and two-segmented parameres as well as by the absence of basal elytral striae, the absence of sutural line on elytron, the absence of basal epipleural transverse carina, and the absence of longitudinal elytral carina. Moreover, male pro- and mesotarsus appear stout, and distinctly dilated laterally; the pronotum is comparably long and parallel-sided and the colour of beetle conspicuous dark orange. Leiodytes kualalipis Balke, Wang, Bergsten & Hendrich, sp. n. is described from West Malaysia (Pahang) and South Vietnam (Cat Tien). It is well characterized by its large size, elongate body and the form of the median lobe. Limbodessus fijiensis (J. Balfour-Browne, 1944), comb. n. described from Fiji is a new synonym of Limbodessus curviplicatus (Zimmermann, 1927) described from Samoa.
["Bidessini"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Some taxonomic notes on the genus Oberea Dejean, 1835 from Asia (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
In the current work, the following taxonomic changes of genus Oberea Dejean, 1835 are proposed: O. flavescens Breuning, 1947, rest. stat.; O. toi Gressitt, 1939, rest. stat.; O. sylvia Pascoe, 1858, rest. stat.; O. taiwana Matsushita, 1933 = O. taihokuensis Breuning, 1962, syn. n.; O. sumbana Breuning, 1961 = O. antennata Franz, 1972, syn. n.; O. brevithorax Gressitt, 1939 is newly recorded from Vietnam.
["New country record"]

Sulawesifulvius thailandicus – a new species of the genus Sulawesifulvius Gorczyca, Chérot & Štys from Thailand (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae, Cylapinae)
A new species of the genus Sulawesifulvius, S. thailandicus Wolski, Yasunaga & Gorczyca, sp. n., is described from Thailand. The present finding also represents the first distribution record in Indochina for the genus. Color adult habitus images for S. thailandicus and S. schuhi (type species of the genus), male genital drawings of S. thailandicus, and scanning electron micrographs of selected structures of S. schuhi and S. thailandicus are provided.
["Miridae"]

A new subterranean species of Pseudocrangonyx from China with an identification key to all species of the genus (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Pseudocrangonyctidae)
A subterranean species of Pseudocrangonyx elegantulus Hou, sp. n. is described from caves of Wulongdong National Forest Park in Henan Province, China. Pseudocrangonyx elegantulus is characterized by both male and female with calceoli on antenna II; urosomite III dorsal margin without armature; uropod III with peduncle 0.30 times as long as outer ramus and terminal article of the outer ramus a little shorter than adjacent spines; telson cleft 0.27 of its length. Phylogenetic analysis based on 28S and COI sequences supported the species distinctness. A key to the genus Pseudocrangonyx with 22 species and a map of their distributions are provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Discovery of a new species of hermit crab of the genus Pylopaguropsis Alcock, 1905 from the Caribbean: “den commensal” or “cleaner”? (Crustacea, Anomura, Paguridae)
A new secretive, yet brightly colored hermit crab species of the family Paguridae, Pylopaguropsis mollymullerae sp. n., is fully described based on specimens from the reefs of Bonaire, Lesser Antilles, southern Caribbean Sea. Populations of this new species were discovered and photographed in the Bonaire National Marine Park under a large coral ledge, at a depth of 13.7 m, living in crevices known by scuba divers to serve as den to a pair of “flaming reef lobsters” Enoplometopus antillensis, or a “broad banded moray” Channomuraena vittata. This new species is only the second species of Pylopaguropsis Alcock, 1905 known from the western Atlantic, the 20th named worldwide, and belongs in the teevana group of species of the genus. It is remarkably similar, and herein considered geminate, to the tropical eastern Pacific congener, P. teevana (Boone, 1932), the two being characterized and uniquely different from all other species of the genus, by the striking and deeply excavated, scoop-like ventral surface of the chela of the right cheliped. Minor differences separate this new species from P. teevana in the relative length of the antennal acicles (exceeding the corneas versus not exceeding the corneas in P. teevana); dorsal armature of the right chela (smooth or with scattered minute tubercles versus with numerous small tubercles in P. teevana); surface shape of the lateral face of the dactyl of right pereopod 3 (evenly convex versus flattened in P. teevana); and coloration (red bright red stripes versus brown stripes in P. teevana). The highly visible color pattern of bright red stripes on white background typical of decapods known to have cleaning symbioses with fish, dense setation on the flagella of the antennae, and preference for a crevicular habitat, combined with brief in situ nocturnal observations, suggests the possibility that P. mollymullerae sp. n. engages in “cleaner” activities or functions as a “den commensal” with moray eels. The morphology and possible meaning of the observed behavior is discussed. A tabular summary of the distribution, habitat, and published information on all species of Pylopaguropsis is presented. Supplemental photographs and a video of live P. mollymullerae sp. n. are included.
["Bonaire"]

Revision of the genus Tarema Schaus, 1896 (Lepidoptera, Mimallonoidea, Mimallonidae) with the description of a new species from southeastern Brazil
The genus Tarema Schaus, 1896 is revised. The species T. fuscosa Jones, 1908 and T. rivara Schaus, 1896 are redescribed, the female of the former is described and figured for the first time, and the genitalia of both sexes for each species are figured for the first time. The lectotype of Tarema macarina Schaus, 1928, syn. n. is determined to be the female of T. rivara. Tarema bruna sp. n. is described from São Paulo, Brazil. Lectotypes for T. fuscosa, T. rivara, and T. macarina are here designated.

Presumed filter-feeding in a deep-sea benthic shrimp (Decapoda, Caridea, Stylodactylidae), with records of the deepest occurrence of carideans
Using the remotely operated vehicle Deep Discoverer, we observed a large stylodactylid shrimp resting on a sedimented sea floor at 4826 m in the Marianas Trench Marine National Monument. The shrimp was not collected but most closely resembled Bathystylodactylus bathyalis, known previously only from a single broken specimen. Video footage shows the shrimp facing into the current and extending its upraised and fringed first and second pereopods, presumably capturing passing particles. The video footage is the first ever to show a living deep-sea stylodactylid and constitutes the deepest record for the family. We provide a list of the deepest reports of caridean shrimps world-wide.
["Deep-sea shrimp"]

Towards a revision of the genus Periclimenes: resurrection of Ancylocaris Schenkel, 1902, and designation of three new genera (Crustacea, Decapoda, Palaemonidae)
Based on recently published molecular phylogenies of Indo-West Pacific palaemonid shrimps and further morphological evidence, the systematic position of several species of the polyphyletic genus Periclimenes is revised. The generic name Ancylocaris Schenkel, 1902 is re-established for the anemone-associated P. brevicarpalis. Actinimenes gen. n., is proposed for the anemone-associated P. inornatus, P. ornatellus and P. ornatus, all of which have a subspatulate first pereiopod. Cristimenes gen. n., is designated for the echinoderm-associated species, P. commensalis, P. cristimanus, and P. zanzibaricus, all with a unique carpo-propodal articulation of the second pereiopods. Rapimenes gen. n. is established for the hydroid and antipatharian-associated P. brucei, P. granulimanus, and P. laevimanus, for which the long, slender and unequal second pereiopods and prehensile ambulatory propodi are the main synapomorphic characters.
["Ancylocaris"]

New species of Habronattus and Pellenes jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae, Harmochirina)
The harmochirine jumping spiders include the New World Habronattus, notable for their complex courtship displays, and Pellenes, found throughout the Old World and North America. Five new species of Habronattus and one new species of Pellenes are here described from North America: Habronattus aestus, sp. n., H. chamela sp. n., H. empyrus sp. n., H. luminosus sp. n., H. roberti sp. n., and Pellenes canadensis sp. n. For each of the new species, photographs of living specimens are given, as well as notes on habitat. The new subgenus Pellenattus is described for the subgroup of Pellenes restricted to North America, with type species Pellenes peninsularis Emerton, 1925. Species placed in Pellenes (Pellenattus) are Pellenes apacheus Lowrie & Gertsch, 1955, P. canadensis sp. n., P. crandalli Lowrie & Gertsch, 1955, P. dorsalis (Banks, 1898b), P. grammaticus Chamberlin 1925, P. levii Lowrie & Gertsch, 1955, P. limatus Peckham & Peckham, 1901, P. longimanus Emerton, 1913, P. peninsularis Emerton, 1925, P. shoshonensis Gertsch, 1934, and P. washonus Lowrie & Gertsch, 1955. Pellenes wrighti Lowrie & Gertsch, 1955 is synonymized with P. peninsularis. Attention is drawn to an undescribed species of Habronattus from Canada whose only known specimen is apparently lost.

Oreoglanis hponkanensis, a new sisorid catfish from north Myanmar (Actinopterygii, Sisoridae)
During a survey of the Mali Hka River drainage in Hponkanrazi Wildlife Sanctuary in December 2015, a new species was collected and is described herein as Oreoglanis hponkanensis. It is a member of the O. siamensis species group and can be distinguished from its congeners in having a unique combination of the following characters: lower lip with median notch and posterior margin entire, caudal fin emarginate, nasal barbel reaching about half the distance to eye, tip of maxillary barbel rounded, posterior margin of maxillary barbel entire, absence of pale elliptical patches on sides of body below adipose fin, absence of patch on base of first dorsal fin ray, caudal fin brown with two round, bright orange patches in middle, branched dorsal fin rays 5, branched anal fin rays 2, vertebrae 40, pectoral fin surpassing pelvic fin origin, pelvic fin length 21–26% SL, caudal peduncle length 25–33% SL, caudal peduncle depth 3–5% SL, adipose fin base length 34–39% SL, and dorsal to adipose distance 12–16% SL.
["Hponkanrazi"]

Review of Neopalpa Povolný, 1998 with description of a new species from California and Baja California, Mexico (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae)
The monotypic genus Neopalpa was described in 1998 by Czech entomologist Dalibor Povolný based on two male specimens from Santa Catalina Island, California, which he named N. neonata. The female of this species was discovered recently based on a DNA barcode match and is described. In addition, a new species with marked differences in morphology and DNA barcodes from southern California and Baja California Mexico is described as Neopalpa donaldtrumpi sp. n. Adults and genitalia of both species are illustrated, new diagnosis for the genus Neopalpa is provided, and its position within Gelechiidae is briefly discussed.
["Microlepidoptera"]

Redescription of Dynoides elegans (Boone, 1923) (Crustacea, Isopoda, Sphaeromatidae) from the north-eastern Pacific
Dynoides elegans (Boone, 1923) from southern California is reviewed, redescribed, and figured. The original species description did not include figures, making it difficult to attribute individuals to the species. Dynoides saldanai Carvacho and Haasmann, 1984 and D. crenulatus Carvacho & Haasman, 1984 from the Pacific Coast of Mexico and D. brevicornis Kussakin & Malyutina, 1987, from Furugelm Island, Peter the Great Gulf in the Sea of Japan, appear morphologically more similar to each other than to western Pacific species. A large pleonal process is present in about half of the Dynoides species, but is absent in this north-eastern Pacific clade and the north-western Pacific D. brevicornis and D. brevispina. Dynoides dentisinus Shen, 1929 possess a large pleonal spine. It is known from China, Japan, and Korea and is introduced in San Francisco Bay; it can be easily distinguished from D. elegans by the presence of a pleonal process in the former. A key to the Pacific West Coast Dynoides is provided.

Checklist and distribution maps of the blow flies of Venezuela (Diptera, Calliphoridae, Mesembrinellidae)
A checklist of the 39 species of blow flies (Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae) so far known to occur in Venezuela is provided, based on a thorough literature review and the examination of ca. 500 specimens deposited in the main entomological collections of the country. Data from the literature and museum collections were used to generate distribution maps for 37 species. Three species are recorded from Venezuela for the first time: Chrysomya putoria (Wiedemann, 1830), Mesembrinella spicata Aldrich, 1925 and Mesembrinella umbrosa Aldrich, 1922.
["Calliphorids"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

On a desmitracheate “micronetine” Nippononeta alpina (Li & Zhu, 1993), comb. n. (Araneae, Linyphiidae)
The phylogenetic analyses based on molecular data demonstrate that all “micronetine” species of a desmitracheate system form a monophyly. Macrargus Dahl, 1886 is a “micronetine” genus, the species of which have a haplotracheate system in general, while Macrargus alpinus Li & Zhu, 1993 was found to have a desmitracheate system; this makes its generic placement problematic. According to the results of phylogenetic analysis, we transfer M. alpinus to another genus as Nippononeta alpina (Li & Zhu, 1993), comb. n., and provide a redescription of its genital characters and somatic features. Comparisons with other “micronetine” species with a desmitracheate system are provided. Putative synapomorphies for Nippononeta, the clade Nippononeta + Agyneta, and for the “desmitracheate micronetines” clade, as well as their relationship with Helophora, are provided and discussed.
["Epigynal scape"]

Description of a new species of Euderus Haliday from the southeastern United States (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae): the crypt-keeper wasp
A new species of the genus Euderus Haliday, Euderus set sp. n., is described and illustrated from the southeastern United States, where it parasitizes the crypt gall wasp, Bassettia pallida Ashmead, 1896, on live oaks in the genus Quercus (subsection Virentes). This is the 1st species of the genus reported from the southeastern United States to parasitize cynipid gall wasps and the 3rd species of the genus reported to attack cynipids in North America. Modified sections of the identification keys to subgenera and species of Euderus (Yoshimoto, 1971) are included to integrate the new species.
["Bassettia"]
["Gastrointestinal motility and disorders", "Child Nutrition and Feeding Issues", "Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterology"]

Three new species of the killifish genus Melanorivulus from the central Brazilian Cerrado savanna (Cyprinodontiformes, Aplocheilidae)
Three new species are described from the Neotropical region comprising the Cerrado savannas of the central Brazilian plateaus, which is among the most important biodiversity centres in the world. These species are considered closely related to M. dapazi from the same region, with which they share the presence of a rudimentary interarcual cartilage and a dark reddish brown distal margin on the male anal fin. The group comprising M. dapazi and the three new species is here named as the M. dapazi species group. Melanorivulus ignescens sp. n., from the upper Rio Araguaia basin, is distinguished from all other species of the M. dapazi group by the anal-fin colour pattern in males; M. flavipinnis sp. n. and M. regularis sp. n. from the Rio Paraguai basin are distinguished from all other congeners of the M. dapazi group by the colour pattern of the caudal fin and number of scales in the longitudinal series, respectively. All the new species are further unambiguously diagnosed by unique combinations of morphological characters, including meristic and morphometric data, and colour patterns. This study reinforces the importance of using live colour patterns to diagnose species and species groups of the genus Melanorivulus, but also indicates that osteological characters may be informative for species diagnosis. This study confirms the high diversity of species of Melanorivulus in the central Brazilian Cerrado plateaus already reported in previous studies, indicating that endemic species are often restricted to short segments of a single river drainage.

A new species of Pristimantis (Amphibia, Anura, Craugastoridae) from a montane forest of the Pui Pui Protected Forest in central Peru (Región Junín)
A new species of frog of the genus Pristimantis is described from a montane forest between 1700 and 1800 m a.s.l. of the Pui Pui Protected Forest (Región Junín) in central Peru. Pristimantis ashaninka sp. n. is described based on five adult females (snout–vent length 23.1–26.7 mm) and ten juveniles (snout-vent length 10.6–13.4). It differs from its congeners by having the skin on dorsum shagreen with many conical tubercles giving it a spinose appearance, lacking a tympanum, having groin, anterior and posterior surfaces of thighs uniformly grayish brown, and a pale bronze iris with fine black reticulations, a median reddish hint horizontally across iris, and a black narrow vertical streak from pupil across lower and upper half of iris. Among the Peruvian Pristimantis that lack a tympanum, P. ashaninka sp. n. is morphologically most similar to P. lirellus, P. martiae, and P. rhabdocnemus. However, 16S DNA barcoding revealed clear distinctions between all four species of Pristimantis.

Taxonomy of Macromotettixoides with the description of a new species (Tetrigidae, Metrodorinae)
Descriptions of the flying organs and generic characteristics of the genus Macromotettixoides Zheng, Wei & Jiang are currently imprecise. Macromotettixoides is reviewed and compared with allied genera. A re-description is undertaken and a determination key is provided to Macromotettixoides. Macromotettixoides parvula Zha & Wen, sp. n. from the Guizhou Karst Region, China, is described and illustrated with photographs. Observations on the ecology and habits of the new species are recorded. Four current species of Hyboella Hancock are transferred to Macromotettixoides. Variations of the flying organs and tegminal sinus in the Tetrigidae are discussed, which will help to describe them accurately.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Taxonomic study on specimens of the genus Micrencaustes deposited in the Bernice P. Bishop Museum (Coleoptera, Erotylidae)
Specimens of the genus Micrencaustes deposited in Bernice P. Bishop Museum were studied. Two new species Micrencaustes (Mimencaustes) rotundimaculatasp. n. and Micrencaustes (Mimencaustes) serratimaculatasp. n. are described and illustrated. A key to worldwide species of the subgenus Mimencaustes is provided.
["Philippines"]

A new species of the genus Phaenochilus Weise from China (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Chilocorini)
A new species Phaenochilus albomarginalis Li & Wang, sp. n. is described. The only other species recorded from China is P. metasternalis Miyatake, 1970 and it is described here for comparison. Diagnoses, detailed descriptions, illustrations, and distributions are provided.

Baetis (Baetis) cypronyx sp. n., a new species of the Baetis alpinus species-group (Insecta, Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Cyprus, with annotated checklist of Baetidae in the Mediterranean islands
A detailed description of the larvae of Baetis (Baetis) cypronyxsp. n., a representative of the Baetis alpinus species-group within the mayfly family Baetidae, is provided, including a differential diagnosis with regard to closely related species of the group, especially Baetis melanonyx (Pictet, 1843) and B. baroukianus Thomas & Dia, 1984. The new species is mainly distinguished by mouthparts (i.e. the shape and setation of labrum, maxillary and labial palps, details of paraglossae and mandibular incisors), setation of legs and abdominal terga, and length of paracercus. All available data on the biology of this putative endemic species of Cyprus are summarized. Annotated distributional data of the 33 species of Baetidae so far recorded from the Mediterranean islands are given, including new records and also including first data from Malta.
["Baetinae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Revision of the genus Vanenga Schaus, 1928 (Lepidoptera, Mimallonoidea, Mimallonidae) with the description of a new species
Vanenga Schaus, 1928, like many other Mimallonidae genera being revised in recent years, has not been studied since Schaus (1928) in his revision of the family. This currently monotypic genus is entirely restricted to South America, with no known representatives in Central or North America. Prior to this work, Schaus (1928) and subsequent lists of the family (Gaede 1931, Becker 1996) have mentioned the single species V. mera (Dognin, 1924) described from the Brazilian Amazon (Pará state). In Schaus (1928) this species is listed as occurring in both Amazonia and southeastern Brazil. In completing the present article, numerous “type” specimens have been discovered bearing three different manuscript names associated with the populations of southeastern Brazil and adjacent areas. Despite the fact that these names were written on various labels, the absence of any published descriptions results in them being unavailable (ICZN 1999). Therefore, this distinct southern South American species is now officially recognized and formally described, as well as providing a much more thorough distribution for both Vanenga species, including many new records for V. mera.

First record of the genus Lethades Davis, 1897 from the Oriental region, with description of a new species (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ctenopelmatinae)
A new species of the genus Lethades Davis, 1897 (Ctenopelmatinae: Pionini), L. orientalis Reshchikov & Xu, sp. n., collected in Heishiding Nature Reserve in Guangdong Province, China, is described. This is new record of the genus from China and for the Oriental region also. The species can be distinguished from all other species of the genus by its black metasoma, the presence of an areolet on the fore wing, distinctly pectinate claws with teeth of the hind claw as high as the claw itself, and a complete longitudinal propodeal carina. A key to the world species of the genus is provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The mammalian faunas endemic to the Cerrado and the Caatinga
We undertook a comprehensive, critical review of literature concerning the distribution, conservation status, and taxonomy of species of mammals endemic to the Cerrado and the Caatinga, the two largest biomes of the South American Dry-Diagonal. We present species accounts and lists of species, which we built with criteria that, in our opinion, yielded results with increased scientific rigor relative to previously published lists – e.g., excluding nominal taxa whose statuses as species have been claimed only on the basis of unpublished data, incomplete taxonomic work, or weak evidence. For various taxa, we provided arguments regarding species distributions, conservation and taxonomic statuses previously lacking in the literature. Two major findings are worth highlighting. First, we unveil the existence of a group of species endemic to both the Cerrado and the Caatinga (i.e., present in both biomes and absent in all other biomes). From the biogeographic point of view, this group, herein referred to as Caatinga-Cerrado endemics, deserves attention as a unit – just as in case of the Caatinga-only and the Cerrado-only endemics. We present preliminary hypotheses on the origin of these three endemic faunas (Cerrado-only, Caatinga-only, and Caatinga-Cerrado endemics). Secondly, we discovered that a substantial portion of the endemic mammalian faunas of the Caatinga and the Cerrado faces risks of extinction that are unrecognized in the highly influential Red List of Threatened Species published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). “Data deficient” is a category that misrepresents the real risks of extinction of these species considering that (a) some of these species are known only from a handful of specimens collected in a single or a few localities long ago; (b) the Cerrado and the Caatinga have been sufficiently sampled to guarantee collection of additional specimens of these species if they were abundant; (c) natural habitats of the Cerrado and the Caatinga have been substantially altered or lost in recent decades. Failures either in the design of the IUCN criteria or in their application to assign categories of extinction risks represent an additional important threat to these endemic faunas because their real risks of extinctions become hidden. It is imperative to correct this situation, particularly considering that these species are associated to habitats that are experiencing fast transformation into areas for agriculture, at an unbearable cost for biodiversity.
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Trapdoor spiders of the genus Cyclocosmia Ausserer, 1871 from China and Vietnam (Araneae, Ctenizidae)
A species of the genus Cyclocosmia Ausserer, 1871 collected from Guizhou Province, China is diagnosed and described as new to science: C. liui Xu, Xu & Li, sp. n. (♀). New records of C. latusicosta Zhu, Zhang & Zhang, 2006 (♀) from China (Yunnan Province) and Vietnam (Vinh Phuc Province, Ninh Binh Province), and C. ricketti (Pocock, 1901) collected from Jiangxi Province, China are also reported in this study.

Herpetofauna of the Northwest Amazon forest in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, with remarks on the Gurupi Biological Reserve
Understanding the biodiversity of an area is the first step for establishing effective interventions for conservation, especially when it comes to herpetofauna, since 4.1% and 9.2%, respectively, of Brazilian amphibians and reptiles are endangered. The aim of this study is to identify the composition of the herpetofauna occurring in the Northwest Amazonian state of Maranhão, with a focus on the Gurupi Biological Reserve and surrounding areas. Samples were collected between May 2012 and October 2013 (18 months), through pitfall traps, time constrained active search, and opportunistic encounters, and these records were supplemented by specimens collected by third parties and by bibliographic records. A total of 131 species were recorded: 31 species of amphibians and 100 species of reptiles (six testudines, 30 lizards, two amphisbaenas, 60 snakes and two alligators), including some species new to the state of Maranhão and the northeast region of Brazil. This inventory contributes to the knowledge of the herpetofauna for the Belém Endemism Center, the most devastated region of the Brazilian Amazon, and considered poorly sampled.

A new highly cave-adapted trechine genus and species from northern Guizhou Province, China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
A remarkable aphaenopsian beetle, a sympatric species of Qianotrechus tenuicollis Uéno, 2000, was newly discovered in Cave Mahuang Dong of Shuanghe Dong cave system, the longest cave system of China in Suiyang County, northern Guizhou Province. To categorize this striking but still unknown species, a new genus and species are proposed: Shuangheaphaenops elegans gen. n., sp. n. Relationships of Shuangheaphaenops and other highly modified aphaenopsian genera from southern China Karsts are discussed.
["aphaenopsian"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

The unexpected finding of Parapholidoptera castaneoviridis in south-eastern Romania (Insecta, Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae)
The Balkano-Anatolian genus Parapholidoptera comprises 21 species and the westernmost one, Parapholidoptera castaneoviridis, previously recognized to occur in western Turkey, north-eastern Greece and south-eastern Bulgaria is recorded for the first time from south-eastern Romania, almost 300 km away from the closest known locality. Illustrations and measurements of morphological characters are given and the male calling song from this new, northernmost population is described.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Four new species of the trapdoor spider genus Conothele Thorell, 1878 from Mainland China and Laos (Araneae, Ctenizidae)
Here for the first time the presence of the trapdoor spider genus Conothele Thorell, 1878 (Araneae: Ctenizidae) is reported from mainland China and Laos. Four Conothele species collected from the regions are described as new to science, based on the female genital morphology: C. baiyunensis Xu, Xu & Liu, sp. n. (Guangdong Province), C. daxinensis Xu, Xu & Li, sp. n. (Guangxi Province), C. sidiechongensis Xu, Xu & Liu, sp. n. (Yunnan Province, China and Vietnam), C. yundingensis Xu, Xu & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan Province).

First record of Rhopalophthalmus longipes Ii, 1964 from Malaysian waters (Crustacea, Mysida)
The marine mysid species Rhopalophthalmus longipes Ii, 1964 is reported from Malaysian waters for the first time. Specimens are described and illustrated in detail based on material collected by epibenthic sledge from the seagrass meadows of Pulau Tinggi, Johor. Specimens exhibit a slight difference from Ii’s type material by possessing a rounded process bearing two small protrusions apically near the middle distal end of the third segment of antennal peduncle. In addition, its telson armed with 7-9 moderately strong setae at the lateral margin.
["Malaysian waters"]

Hydroides Gunnerus, 1768 (Annelida, Serpulidae) is feminine: a nomenclatural checklist of updated names
As a service to taxonomists and ecologists using names in the well-known and species-rich ship-fouling serpulid genus Hydroides we present an update of all 107 non-synonymised scientific names, with additional information on Hydroides nomenclature, original names, etymologies, and type localities derived from original literature, and in accord with the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS) database. An update is needed because the gender of genus Hydroides has from 1 January 2000 reverted to the original feminine, due to a change in the wording of International Code of Zoological Nomenclature which was overlooked at that time, and is contrary to the usage in practice of Hydroides as masculine which had started about 1992, although Code-required from the 1960s. We match 31 further original names of current WoRMS subjective junior synonyms to each non-synonymised name, and also report on the world distribution of the genus as illustrated by type localities of the valid names. We include notes on seven species inquirenda. The correct rendering is given of six names that have been altered for gender agreement for the first time herein. Hydroides gottfriedi nom. n. replaces junior homonym H. rostrata Pillai, 1971. Currently there are 41 non-synonymised species-group names in Hydroides which should be gender invariant, and 23 names which would only change if moved to a neuter genus; the remaining 43 names are fully gender variable. Place-names (23), and personal names (16) make up more than a third (36%) of the species names, with most of the remainder (68) being descriptive of species character states, usually of operculum morphology (54). All species, except H. norvegica (63°N), have type localities in shallow-water coastal locations in temperate to tropical waters below latitude 44°, with the highest number of new species (54) from the adjoining Western Pacific and Indian Ocean areas. The other concentration of new species (31) are those first found on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America and in the Caribbean.
["Etymology"]

The first species of Aplastodiscus endemic to the Brazilian Cerrado (Anura, Hylidae)
The genus Aplastodiscus includes 14 nominal species in four monophyletic groups with occurrence in the Atlantic Forest and Brazilian Cerrado (Brazilian Savanna) of South America. A recent study reviewed the taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships of the genus and suggested a third species for the A. perviridis Group. Herein, on the basis of morphology and advertisement call, we describe this species and test its monophyly. The new species is the only Aplastodiscus with endemic occurrence in the Cerrado Biome. In addition, its geographical distribution and conservation status are discussed.
["Aplastodiscus lutzorum sp. n."]

Tosanoides obama, a new basslet (Perciformes, Percoidei, Serranidae) from deep coral reefs in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
The new species Tosanoides obama is described from two specimens collected at a depth of 90–92 m off Kure Atoll and Pearl and Hermes Atoll, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. It differs from the other two species of this genus in life color and in certain morphological characters, such as number of pored lateral-line scales, pectoral-fin rays, snout length, anterior three dorsal-fin spine lengths, dorsal-fin profile, and other characters. There are also substantial genetic differences from the other two species of Tosanoides (d ≈ 0.10 in mtDNA cytochrome oxidase I). The species is presently known only from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.
["Mesophotic Coral Ecosystem"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine animal studies overview", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Phylogeographic, morphometric and taxonomic re-evaluation of the river sardine, Mesobola brevianalis (Boulenger, 1908) (Teleostei, Cyprinidae, Chedrini)
The river sardine, Mesobola brevianalis (Boulenger, 1908), is the type species of Mesobola Howes, 1984. Standard phylogenetic analyses of partial sequences of the cytochrome oxidase I gene of individuals from populations across southern Africa that are currently identified as M. brevianalis showed that these populations represent four genetically distinct allopatric lineages. Furthermore, Engraulicypris sardella (Günther, 1868), the type species of Engraulicypris Günther, 1894, was convincingly nested amongst these clades. These findings support synonymisation of Engraulicypris and Mesobola syn. n.; restoration of Engraulicypris gariepinus (Barnard, 1943), stat. rev. for the lower Orange River population; description of two new species, Engraulicypris ngalala sp. n. and Engraulicypris howesi sp. n. from the Rovuma and Kunene river systems, respectively; affirmation of the synonymy of Engraulicypris brevianalis (Boulenger, 1908), comb. n. sensu stricto and Engraulicypris whitei van der Horst, 1934; and restoration of Engraulicypris bredoi Poll, 1945, stat. rev. and Engraulicypris spinifer Bailey & Matthes, 1971, stat. rev. from Mesobola. Discriminant function analysis of a truss network of five traditional morphometric measurements and 21 morphometric measurements that characterised the shape of the fishes was used to seek morphological markers for the genetically distinct populations. Only E. gariepinus was morphometrically distinctive, but live colouration differed between the lineages. Detailed taxonomic descriptions and an identification key for the species are provided.
["Phylogeography"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

On the trapdoor spiders of Mexico: description of the first new species of the spider genus Aptostichus from Mexico and the description of the female of Eucteniza zapatista (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Euctenizidae)
A new species of the spider genus Aptostichus Simon, 1891 is described from a cave in Huautla de Jiménez, Oaxaca, Mexico: Aptostichus sabinae sp. n. This species represents the first new species described from Mexico and the southernmost record in North America for the genus so far. Aptostichus sabinae sp. n. represents the forty-first species described for the genus, which has the highest species diversity in the family Euctenizidae. Eucteniza zapatista is redescribed based on five new males and the first known female from the Parque Nacional La Malinche (PNLM), Tlaxcala Mexico. Eucteniza zapatista is the fourth species of the genus where a female is known, and one of fourteen species described for the genus to date.
["Aptostichus"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Review of the genus Promecidia Lelej, 1996, with description of two new species from China (Hymenoptera, Mutillidae, Trogaspidiini)
Eleven species of Promecidia Lelej, 1996 are reviewed and keyed, and the diagnosis of the genus is given. The genus Promecidia is newly recorded from China and P. abnormis Lelej, sp. n. (China: Guangdong, Hainan) and P. chui Lelej & Xu, sp. n. (China: Yunnan, Hainan) are described and illustrated. New combination is proposed for P. boopis (Kohl, 1882), comb. n. (from the genus Petersenidia Lelej, 1996). New status is proposed for P. saturnia (Mickel, 1935), stat. n. and P. samawangensis (Mickel, 1935), stat. n.
["Key to species"]

Two new genera of big-eyed minute litter bugs (Hemiptera, Schizopteridae, Hypselosomatinae) from Brazil and the Caribbean
Charismatic Hypselosomatinae (currently 14 extant and fossil genera; 72 species), the “big-eyed minute litter bugs”, are characterized among Schizopteridae (Dipsocoromorpha) by the large eyes, four-segmented labium, and distinctive wing venation. A recent molecular phylogenetic analysis confirmed the monophyly of Hypselosomatinae that were recovered as the sister taxon to the Ogeriinae + Schizopterinae (Weirauch and Štys 2014). Hypselosomatinae occur in the Old and New Worlds, but described species diversity is biased towards the Oriental and Australian regions: only three monotypic genera are currently known from the New World (Glyptocombus Heidemann, Ommatides Uhler, and Williamsocoris Carpintero & Dellapé). Based on 28 male, female, and juvenile specimens from Cuba and the Dominican Republic and a single male specimen from Brazil we here describe two new monotypic genera of Hypselosomatinae, Hypselosomops pecki gen. n. and sp. n., and Hypsohapsis takiyae gen. n. and sp. n. We provide habitus images, digital illustrations (light, scanning electron, and/or confocal microscope) of wing and male genitalic structures, line drawings of genitalic structures, and distribution maps. Bizarre morphologies, a worldwide distribution with small endemic species ranges, and a fossil record that dates back to the mid-Cretaceous make the Hypselosomatinae a fascinating group to explore in an effort to understand the evolutionary history of Dipsocoromorpha.
["Dipsocoromorpha"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

The fishes of Cayo Arcas (Campeche Bank, Gulf of Mexico): an updated checklist
Cayo Arcas is a small, offshore reef complex on the southwest corner of Campeche Bank, Gulf of Mexico. The only published information (from 2000) on the fishes of that reef refers to 37 species. Here additional information is added, some from unpublished observations during the 1980s, as well as author observations made during 2013 and 2016. These bring the checklist of that reef’s fishes up to 162 species. The possible effects of the limited number of fish habitats available at Cayo Arcas on the composition of its fish fauna are discussed. The Indo-Pacific damselfish Neopomacentrus cyanomos (Bleeker, 1856) was first recorded in the Atlantic in mid-2013, on shoreline reefs in the southwest corner of the Gulf of Mexico. Recently reviewed underwater photographs show that N. cyanomos also was present at Cayo Arcas in mid-2013, 350 km from the first-record site. Hence it evidently had a substantial population in the southwest Gulf of Mexico in 2013, and must have arrived in there long before that year.
["Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Macrosiphoniella remaudierei, a new species of aphid on Helichrysum in Iran (Hemiptera, Aphididae)
A new species of aphid, belonging to the genus Macrosiphoniella Del Guercio, 1911, is described using three samples collected in Iran on Helichrysum armenium (Asteraceae, Inuleae) by the late Prof. G. Remaudière. Both apterous and alate viviparous females of the new taxon, M. remaudierei sp. n., are described and compared to corresponding morphs of the closely allied M. aetnensis and to other congeneric aphid species on Helichrysum in the Palaearctic region. Type specimens are now stored in the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle in Paris.
["Hemiptera"]

A new species of Linopherus (Annelida, Amphinomidae) from Beibu Gulf, South China Sea
Linopherus beibuwanensis sp. n. is described based on six specimens deposited in the Marine Biological Museum of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, collected from the Beibu Gulf (Tokin Gulf), South China Sea. The new species differs from all other Linopherus species by the shape of prostomium and caruncle. The posterior margin of prostomium is bilobed; the caruncle arises medially and confluently from the posterior margin of the prostomium, joining together with prostomium. A key to distinguish the known species of the genus is provided.
["Fireworm"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Review of Afrotropical Cryptopimpla Taschenberg (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Banchinae), with description of nine new species
The Afrotropical banchine fauna (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) comprises 12 genera. One of these, Cryptopimpla Taschenberg, 1863, is a predominately northern hemisphere genus represented by 47 described species of which only one is known from the Afrotropical region. We describe nine new species of this rare Afrotropical genus: C. elongatus sp. n., C. fernkloofensis sp. n., C. goci sp. n., C. hantami sp. n., C. kogelbergensis sp. n., C. neili sp. n., C. onyxi sp. n., C. parslactis sp. n., and C. zwarti sp. n. All the Afrotropical species are only known from South Africa. Online interactive Lucid keys to the nine Cryptopimpla species are available at: http://www.waspweb.org.

A new Ecuadorian species of the rare Neotropical caddisfly genus Amphoropsyche Holzenthal (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae)
A new species of the rare long-horned caddisfly genus Amphoropsyche Holzenthal is described from Ecuador, bringing the number of species known from the genus to 15. All species are very regional in their distributions and known only from very few specimens. The new species, Amphoropsyche real, is similar to a number of previously described species from Colombia (A. ayura, A. cauca, A. flinti, A. quebrada, and A. stellata) and Ecuador (A. napo and A. tandayapa). The males can be distinguished from the others by features of segment X of the male genitalia, especially the prominent midlateral and subapicodorsal spinelike setae. An updated taxonomic key to males of the genus is provided.
["Trichoptera"]

A new species of Eusirus from Jeju Island, Korea (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Eusiridae)
A new eusirid amphipod, Eusirus bulbodigitus sp. n., from Jeju Island, Korea is described with a detailed description and illustrations. Eusirus bulbodigitus sp. n. shows common features with the five known eusirid amphipods E. abyssi Stephensen, 1944, E. columbianus Bousfield & Hendrycks, 1995, E. hirayamae Bousfield & Hendrycks, 1995, E. laticarpus Chevreux, 1906, and E. parvus Pirlot, 1934, such as the mandibular palp article 3 bearing a group of setae laterally. However, this new species is differentiated by the combination of the following characteristics: the eyes are poorly developed, the propodus on pereopod 4 is slightly shorter, the inner margin of dactylus on pereopod 4 is swollen, the length of pereopods 5–7 is moderate, the urosomite 1 has a dorsal protrusion distally, and the telson is shallowly cleft. This is the first record of the genus Eusirus Krøyer, 1845 from Korean waters.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Myrtoessa hyas, a new valvatiform genus and a new species of the Hydrobiidae (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea) from Greece
A new to science valvatiform hydrobiid, Myrtoessa hyas Radea, gen. n. & sp. n., from southern Greece, is described and illustrated. The new genus is a tiny gastropod thriving in a stream and is differentiated from the other known European and circum-Mediterranean valvatiform hydrobiid genera by a unique combination of the male and female genitalia features i.e. penis long, flat, blunt, with wide wrinkled proximal part and narrow distal part with a sub-terminal eversible papilla on its left side, bursa copulatrix well-developed, pyriform, fully protruding from the posterior end of the albumen gland and two seminal receptacles respectively. The new monotypic and locally endemic genus is narrowly distributed and its single known population nearby a coastal bustling village is vulnerable to anthropogenic stressors.
["Endemicity"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new genus and species of Placusini from a high mountain in Mexico
A new genus and species are described from the Cofre de Perote volcano, in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. Although the new genus is very similar to Placusa, it presents tergite VIII completely modified to form a horn, in both females and males, in addition to other differences in mouthparts. A map and illustrations are provided, as well as an identification key to the genera of Placusini. No morphological characters are apparent to separate Kirtusa Pace from Euvira Sharp in our genus key. The specimens of the new genus were collected using Lindgren and cross traps baited with a mix of semiochemicals: ipsenol, ipsdienol and lanierone.
["Aleocharinae"]

A contribution to mayfly studies of Western Mongolia (Insecta, Ephemeroptera)
Streams in the Mongolian Altai Mountains are mostly fed from glaciers and are extreme conditions for mayflies because of high elevation, low temperatures and low annual precipitation. Previous information about mayflies of Western Mongolia is scarce, but with this study a total of 38 species belonging to 26 genera and subgenera and 8 families of mayflies has been recorded in the Mongolian Altai region. Study material was entirely imagos and collected from 78 sites during expeditions led by the Mongolian Aquatic Insect Survey in 2008, 2009 and 2010. Raptobaetopus tenellus, Caenis luctuosa and C. rivulorum are recorded as new to the fauna of Mongolia, and there are new distribution records for Ameletus montanus, Baetis (Acentrella) lapponica, Baetis sibiricus, Baetis (Labiobaetis) attrebatinus, Centroptilum luteolum, Procloeon pennulatum, Ephemerella aurivillii, Serratella setigera, Ephemera sachalinensis, Ecdyonurus (Afronurus) abracadabrus, Cinygmula kurenzovi, Ecdyonurus (Afghanurus) vicinus and Epeorus (Belovius) pellucidus from the Mongolian Altai region. Baetis vernus and Ephemerella aurivillii are the most frequently encountered species in this region.
["Raptobaetopus"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Epimeria abyssalis sp. n. from the Kuril-Kamchatka Trench (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Epimeriidae)
A new deep-sea epimeriid, Epimeria abyssalis is described from the Kuril-Kamchatka Trench, in the northwestern Pacific. This species differs from its congeners in having a short rostrum and a telson with deep and narrow Y-shaped excavation. Epimeria abyssalis is the deepest recorded Epimeria species. A key to the north Pacific species of Epimeria is provided.
["Epimeria"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and environmental studies"]

A preliminary molecular phylogeny of the genus Scobura, with a synonym of Scobura masutaroi (Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae)
A molecular phylogeny of the genus Scobura based on the mitochondrial COI and the nuclear EF-1α genes using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference is proposed. The analyses include 19 specimens from nine ingroup species. The monophyly of Scobura is not strongly supported, but two strongly supported monophyletic groups within the genus are recognized: the S. coniata group and the S. woolletti group. Judging from combination of the molecular evidence and morphological features, the former consists of six species, including S. masutaroi, while four species belong to the latter. S. mouchai Krajcik, 2013 is confirmed to be a syn. n. of S. masutaroi Sugiyama, 1996. The key to the species of the genus Scobura is modified to reflect these results.

Taxonomic notes on the genus Bellenden Chandler (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
The monotypic genus Buobellenden Yin & Nomura, 2009 is placed as a junior synonym of Bellenden Chandler, 2001. This act results in Bellenden jingyuanensis (Yin & Nomura), comb. n. (from Buobellenden). A new species, Bellenden siguniang Yin & Jang, sp. n., collected from the alpine area in Sichuan, SW China, is described, illustrated, and distinguished from all congeners. A new illustration of the aedeagus of B. jingyuanensis is given.
["Pselaphini"]

Two new deep-reef basslets (Teleostei, Grammatidae, Lipogramma), with comments on the eco-evolutionary relationships of the genus
The banded basslet, Lipogramma evides Robins & Colin, 1979, is shown to comprise two species: L. evides, which inhabits depths of 133–302 m, and a new species described here as Lipogramma levinsoni, which inhabits depths of 108–154 m and previously was considered to represent the juvenile of L. evides. A second new species of banded basslet, described here as Lipogramma haberi, inhabits depths of 152–233 m and was previously not reported in the literature. Morphologically, the three species differ in color patterns and modal numbers of gill rakers, whereas various other morphological features distinguish L. levinsoni from L. evides and L. haberi. DNA barcode data and multilocus, coalescent-based, species-delimitation analysis support the recognition of the three species. Phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial and nuclear genetic data supports a sister-group relationship between the two deepest-living of the three species, L. evides and L. haberi, and suggests that the shallower L. levinsoni is more closely related to L. anabantoides Böhlke, 1960, which inhabits depths < 120 m. Evolutionary relationships within Lipogramma thus appear to be correlated with species depth ranges, an eco-evolutionary pattern that has been observed in other Caribbean marine teleosts and that warrants further investigation. The new species represent the eleventh and twelfth new fish species described in recent years from exploratory submersible diving in the Caribbean in the globally poorly studied depth zone of 50–300 m. This study suggests that there are at least two additional cryptic species of Lipogramma, which are being analyzed in ongoing investigations of Caribbean deep-reef ecosystems.
["Manned submersible"]

The ichthyofauna of limnic systems in Quaternary deposits of extreme southern Brazil
The Quaternary in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), southern Brazil, is geologically represented by the coastal plain and was originated by successive events of Pleistocene-Holocene marine transgressions and the occurrence of alluvial deposits. This paper aimed to characterize the fish assemblage occurring in a swampy Quaternary area adjacent to Lagoa Pequena, a lacustrine system connected to the west margin of the Laguna dos Patos estuary. A checklist is also provided of the ichthyofauna so far recorded in limnic systems of Quaternary deposits in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. A total of 42 species was recorded, distributed in nine orders, 18 families and 31 genera. Characidae and Cichlidae were the most representative families, comprising 15 and 4 species respectively. A bibliographic revision associated to our sample data revealed the occurrence of 156 species in limnic systems inserted in RS Quaternary deposits (114 limnic, 15 marine/estuarine/limnic, ten marine/estuarine, nine estuarine/limnic and eight marine). Characiformes and Siluriformes are the most diverse orders, corroborating the Neotropical pattern. Seven species can be considered endemic to RS Quaternary deposits.

Systematic and biogeographic review of the Staphylinini rove beetles of Lord Howe Island with description of new species and taxonomic changes (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
Lord Howe is an oceanic and relatively young island situated in an area of complex geological and therefore biogeographical processes. The island boasts a large number of endemic species, including many beetles, however, few groups are in an adequate state of systematic knowledge for biogeographic investigation. Recent advances in the systematics of the hyper-diverse rove beetle tribe Staphylinini on a global scale enable us to implement taxonomic changes for species from Lord Howe Island. With the improved systematics we are able to make more accurate biogeographic conclusions and set a framework for further more in-depth exploration of this unique island using rove beetles. Two new species are described: Cheilocolpus olliffi sp. n. and Quediopsis howensis sp. n. Taxonomic changes for the tribe are implemented resulting in the following new combinations: Cheilocolpus castaneus (Lea, 1925), comb. n., Cheilocolpus kentiae (Lea, 1925), comb. n., Ctenandropus mirus (Lea, 1925), comb. n., and Hesperus dolichoderes (Lea, 1925), comb. n. With the updated state of knowledge, the Staphylinini fauna of Lord Howe Island appears to be mainly derived from lineages on mainland Australia.
["Staphylininae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Siamothrips balteus, a new species of Scirtothrips genus-group from China (Thysanoptera, Thripidae)
The third species of the genus Siamothrips Okajima, S. balteus sp. n., is described from China. The new species is characterised by the abdominal tergite II uniformly brown, III–VII with a brown area medially but pale on lateral thirds, tergite VIII smooth medially, tergite X with 3–4 rows of microtrichia medially, and abdominal sternite VII with one pair of discal setae laterally. A key to the three species has been constructed and is presented here.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Agricultural pest management studies", "Agronomic Practices and Intercropping Systems"]

Spatial distribution and seasonal changes of mayflies (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) in a Western Balkan peat bog
Peat bogs are unique wetland ecosystems of high conservation value all over the world, yet data on the macroinvertebrates (including mayfly assemblages) in these habitats are still scarce. Over the course of one growing season, mayfly assemblages were sampled each month, along with other macroinvertebrates, in the largest and oldest Croatian peat bog and an adjacent stream. In total, ten mayfly species were recorded: two species in low abundance in the peat bog, and nine species in significantly higher abundance in the stream. Low species richness and abundance in the peat bog were most likely related to the harsh environmental conditions and mayfly habitat preferences. In comparison, due to the more favourable habitat conditions, higher species richness and abundance were observed in the nearby stream. Three of the recorded species, Caenis luctuosa from the peat bog, and Eurylophella karelica and Leptophlebia marginata from the stream are new records for the Croatian mayfly fauna. Typical Central European life cycle patterns were confirmed for several species (e.g. Baetis vernus, Nigrobaetis niger, Electrogena ujhelyii), while for several others (e.g. Habrophlebia fusca, Paraleptophlebia submarginata) some discrepancies were observed. Therefore, these results provide new and valuable information on the ecology of mayflies in peat bog habitats.
["Environmental factors"]
["Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

Revision of the genus Heterosmylus Krüger, 1913 from China (Neuroptera, Osmylidae)
A new species of osmylid (Heterosmylus processus sp. n.) is described and the other species in the genus from mainland China are redescribed. Heterosmylus zhamanus Yang, 1987, syn. n. is identified as a junior synonym of Heterosmylus yunnanus Yang, 1986. A key is provided to differentiate Palaearctic and Oriental species of Heterosmylus.
["Heterosmylus"]

New South American species of Lamiinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
Two new species of cerambycid beetles are described from South America: Ataxia camiriensis (Pteropliini), from Bolivia, and Falsamblesthis uniformis (Forsteriini), from Peru. The new species are included in previous keys.

A new species of Mastigodiaptomus Light, 1939 from Mexico, with notes of species diversity of the genus (Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae)
A new species of the genus Mastigodiaptomus Light, 1939, named Mastigodiaptomus cuneatus sp. n. was found in a freshwater system in the City of Mazatlán, in the northern region of Mexico. Morphologically, the females of this new species are distinguishable from those of its congeners by the following combination of features: the right distal corner of the genital double-somite and second urosomite have a wedge-shaped projection, the fourth urosomite has no dorsal projection and its integument is smooth. The males are distinct by the following features: the right caudal ramus has a wedge-shaped structure at the disto-ventral inner corner; the basis of the right fifth leg has one triangular and one rounded projection at the distal and proximal margins, respectively, plus one hyaline membrane on the caudal surface close to the inner margin; the aculeus length is almost the width of the right second exopod (Exp2); and the frontal and caudal surfaces of the right Exp2 are smooth. Furthermore, the analysis of the COI gene of M. cuneatus sp. n. has revealed that M. albuquerquensis (Herrick, 1895) is its nearest congener, with 18.64% of genetic distance. A key for the identification of the known species of the genus is provided.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

New synonyms in the highly diverse caddisfly genus Smicridea (Trichoptera, Hydropsychidae)
In this paper, Smicridea (Rhyacophylax) repula Oláh & Johanson, 2012 is synonymized with Smicridea (R.) lobata (Ulmer, 1909), and the species Leptonema islamarga Botosaneanu, 2002 is transferred to Smicridea (R.) as a synonym of S. lobata. Additionally, we present more detailed illustrations of the male genitalia of S. (R.) lobata and S. (R.) signata (Banks, 1903), and include notes on their distributions to aid in the identification of these two, often-confused species.
["Synonymy"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Revision of the genus Ptomaphagus Hellwig (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae) from the Russian Far East and the Korean Peninsula
The conundrum of Ptomaphagus (s. str.) sibiricus Jeannel, 1934 (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae, Ptomaphagini) is solved, and it is redescribed and newly recorded in South Korea. A new species is also described from the Russian Far East: P. (s. str.) hayashiisp. n. Relevant morphological characters of the concerned species are illustrated with colour plates, and their known distributions are mapped.
["Leiodidae"]

A new blind species of the cave genus Oreonectes from Guizhou, China (Nemacheilinae)
This study aimed to describe a new specimen of cavefish collected from a karst cave in the Daqikong area of Libo County, Guizhou. Twenty-six cavefish specimens were collected and identified as a new species of Balitoridae: Nemacheilinae, and named Oreonectes daqikongensis sp. n. A genetic analysis was performed and showed that its genetic distances from Oreonectes shuilongensis and Oreonectes platycephalus are higher than intraspecific distances. Discovery of this species will be helpful to understand the distribution of Oreonectes.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Complete mitochondrial genomes of two flat-backed millipedes by next-generation sequencing (Diplopoda, Polydesmida)
A lack of mitochondrial genome data from myriapods is hampering progress across genetic, systematic, phylogenetic and evolutionary studies. Here, the complete mitochondrial genomes of two millipedes, Asiomorpha coarctata Saussure, 1860 (Diplopoda: Polydesmida: Paradoxosomatidae) and Xystodesmus sp. (Diplopoda: Polydesmida: Xystodesmidae) were assembled with high coverage using Illumina sequencing data. The mitochondrial genomes of the two newly sequenced species are circular molecules of 15,644 bp and 15,791 bp, within which the typical mitochondrial genome complement of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs and two ribosomal RNA genes could be identified. The mitochondrial genome of A. coarctata is the first complete sequence in the family Paradoxosomatidae (Diplopoda: Polydesmida) and the gene order of the two flat-backed millipedes is novel among known myriapod mitochondrial genomes. Unique translocations have occurred, including inversion of one half of the two genomes with respect to other millipede genomes. Inversion of the entire side of a genome (trnF-nad5-trnH-nad4-nad4L, trnP, nad1-trnL2-trnL1-rrnL-trnV-rrnS, trnQ, trnC and trnY) could constitute a common event in the order Polydesmida. Last, our phylogenetic analyses recovered the monophyletic Progoneata, subphylum Myriapoda and four internal classes.
["gene order"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

A new earwig of the genus Echinosoma from Penang Island, Peninsular Malaysia, with notes on the taxonomic and nomenclatural problems of the genus Cranopygia (Insecta, Dermaptera, Pygidicranidae)
The pygidicranid earwigs (Dermaptera) of Penang Island, Peninsular Malaysia were re-examined based on material collected in extensive field surveys in 2012–2013 and 2015. Echinosoma roseiventre Kamimura & Nishikawa, sp. n. is described and illustrated, and Cranopygia pallidipennis (de Haan, 1842) is reported from the island for the first time. The taxonomic and nomenclatural problems of the genus CranopygiasensuHincks (1959) [A Systematic Monograph of the Dermaptera of the World. Part II. Pygidicranidae excluding Diplatyinae. British Museum (Natural History)] are also discussed. For the members of the subfamily Pygidicraninae from Indo-Austral and Oriental regions, the system, definitions of genera, and key of Hincks (1959) are followed. The genus Mucrocranopygia Steinmann, 1986 is synonymized with Cranopygia Burr, 1908. A key to the males of small Echinosoma from the Oriental region is provided.
["Cranopygia"]

A preliminary account of the fly fauna in Jabal Shada al-A’la Nature Reserve, Saudi Arabia, with new records and biogeographical remarks (Diptera, Insecta)
The first list of insects of Al-Baha Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) was published in 2013 and contained a total of 582 species; an addendum to this list was published in 2015 adding 142 species and bringing the total number recorded from the province to 724 insect species representing 17 orders. The previous two studies excluded Jabal Shada al-A’la Nature Reserve (SANR), so the present study in SANR, as belonging to Al-Baha Province, are complementary to the previous two. The present study presents a preliminary list of Diptera (Insecta) in SANR, with remarks on their zoogeography, and is the first of a series of planned ecological and systematic studies on different insect orders as one of the outputs of a project proposed to study the entire insect fauna of SANR. A total number of 119 Diptera species belonging to 87 genera, 31 tribes, 42 subfamilies, and representing 30 families has been recorded from SANR in the present study. Some species have been identified only to the genus level and listed herein only because this is the first time to record their genera in KSA. Fourteen of the species are recorded for the first time for KSA, namely: Forcipomyia sahariensis Kieffer, 1923 [Ceratopogonidae]; Chaetosciara sp. [Sciaridae]; Neolophonotus sp.1; Neolophonotus sp.2; Promachus sinaiticus Efflatoun, 1934; Saropogon longicornis (Macquart, 1838); Saropogon sp. [Asilidae]; Spogostylum tripunctatum (Pallas in Wiedemann, 1818) [Bombyliidae]; Phycus sp. [Therevidae]; Hemeromyia sp.; Meoneura palaestinensis Hennig, 1937 [Carnidae]; Desmometopa inaurata Lamb, 1914 [Milichiidae]; Stomoxys niger Macquart, 1851 [Muscidae]; and Sarcophaga palestinensis (Lehrer, 1998) [Sarcophagidae]. Zoogeographic affinities of recorded fly species suggest a closer affiliation to the Afrotropical region (46%) than to the Palearctic region (23.5%) or the Oriental region (2.5%). This supports the previous studies’ conclusions and emphasizes the fact that parts of the Arabian Peninsula, including Al-Baha Province, ought to be a part of the Afrotropical Region rather than of the Palaearctic Region or the Eremic Zone.

Integrative taxonomy of the genus Onchidium Buchannan, 1800 (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Onchidiidae)
In an effort to clarify the species diversity of onchidiid slugs, the taxonomy of the genus Onchidium Buchannan, 1800 is revised using an integrative approach. New, fresh specimens were collected in a large number of places, including type localities. The genus Onchidium is redefined here as a clade including only three species which are strongly supported by both morphological and molecular data. All three species were already named: the type species O. typhae Buchannan, 1800, O. stuxbergi (Westerlund, 1883), and O. reevesii (J.E. Gray, 1850). With the exception of a re-description of O. typhae published in 1869, all three species are re-described here for the first time. First-hand observations on the color variation of live animals in their natural habitat are provided. The anatomy of each species is described. Important nomenclatural issues are addressed. In particular, Labella Starobogatov, 1976 is regarded as a junior synonym of Onchidium and Labella ajuthiae (Labbé, 1935) and O. nigrum (Plate, 1893) are regarded as junior synonyms of O. stuxbergi. The nomenclatural status of several other species names is discussed as well. Many new records are provided across South-East Asia and precise ranges of geographic distributions are provided for the genus Onchidium and its three species. Distinctive features that help distinguish the genus Onchidium from other onchidiids are provided, as well as an identification key for the three species.

Iranocichla persa, a new cichlid species from southern Iran (Teleostei, Cichlidae)
Iranocichla persa sp. n. is described from the Shur, Hasanlangi and Minab River drainages flowing into the Persian Gulf at the Strait of Hormuz in southern Iran. It is distinguished from I. hormuzensis, from the Mehran River drainage, by nuptial males having a bright orange breast and lower part of the head (vs. black), a poorly developed or invisible (vs. distinctive) “Tilapia-mark” in the dorsal fin and very clear white spots making almost wavy bars or stripes on the caudal fin (vs. without or with very few white spots). Mitochondrial DNA sequence characters suggest that both Iranocichla species are closely related but form two distinct clades, diagnosable by several fixed mutations in ND2, D-loop and partially by COI sequences. Populations from Kol River drainage, which is situated in-between the Mehran and the Shur River drainages, are more similar to I. hormuzensis in terms of their male nuptial coloration but to I. persa sp. n. in their mitochondrial sequence characters. Their status requires further investigation.
["Barcode region"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new species of Baenothrips Crawford from China (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae)
A new urothripine species, Baenothrips cuneatus sp. n., is described from China. This is distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characteristics: dorsal surface of head having a wedge-shaped reticulation extending from median to the posterior margin; antennal segments VII–VIII is closely joined with a complete suture; the mesoacrotergite strongly constricted in the middle; abdominal tergite I divided into 5 plates; width of membranous gap between ovispan on abdominal sternite IX approximately 1/3 of the apical width of segment IX.
["Baenothrips"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Agricultural pest management studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

A taxonomic revision of Neoserica (sensu lato): the species groups N. lubrica, N. obscura, and N. silvestris (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
The species of the Neoserica lubrica Brenske, 1898, N. obscura (Blanchard, 1850) and N. silvestris Brenske, 1902 species groups are revised. The study resulted in the following new synonymies and combinations: Neoserica obscura (Blanchard, 1850) = Microserica roeri Frey, 1972, syn. n., = Maladera chinensis (Arrow, 1946), syn. n.; Neoserica hainana (Brenske, 1898), comb. n., and Neoserica minor (Arrow, 1946), comb. n. The known species are redescribed. The following nine new species are described from China: N. allobscura Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n., N. dongjiafenensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n., N. fugongensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n., N. mantillerii Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n., N. menglunensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n., N. pseudosilvestris Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n., N. sakoliana Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n., N. shuyongi Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n., and N. tahianensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, sp. n. A key to the Sericini genera with multilamellate antenna, species groups of Neoserica of mainland Asia, and species of the species groups examined here are provided. Maps of the species distribution are provided, habitus and male genitalia are illustrated.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A survey of Pireneitega from Tajikistan (Agelenidae, Coelotinae)
Five new species of Pireneitega species from Tajikistan are described: P. zonsteini sp. n. (♂♀), P. muratovi sp. n. (♀), P. tyurai sp. n. (♀), P. ramitensis sp. n. (♀) and P. kovblyuki sp. n. (♂). Pireneitega major (Kroneberg, 1875) is redescribed for the first time based on the lectotype designated here. DNA barcodes for the five new species are documented for future use and as proof of molecular differences between these species.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Two new species of Floresorchestia (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Talitridae) in Thailand
The beach-hopper and land-hopper genus Floresorchestia Bousfield, 1984 is most widespread in terrestrial and marine littoral habitats and has been recorded from the South African coasts through to tropical Indo-Pacific and Caribbean Sea. In Thailand, there is only Floresorchestia samroiyodensis Azman, Wongkamhaeng & Dumrongrojwattana, 2014 reported from the swamp of Prachuab Kiri Khan, southern Thailand. In this work, two new species of Floresorchestia from Phutsa Reservoir in Nakhon Ratchasima and the man-made swamp in Burapha University are described. The new species are characterised by the mandible left lacinia mobilis 4-dentate; the posterior margin of merus, carpus and propodus covered in palmate setae; the uropod 3 peduncle with two robust setae and the telson longer than broad. The characters of the specimens are described and illustrated in this paper. All specimens are deposited in the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand.

Antarctotrechus balli sp. n. (Carabidae, Trechini): the first ground beetle from Antarctica
Fossil elytra of a small trechine carabid are reported from the Oliver Bluffs on the Beardmore Glacier at lat. 85°S. They were compared with counterparts from the extant genera Trechisibus, Tasmanorites, Oxytrechus and Pseudocnides. The fossils share some characters but are sufficiently different to be described as a new genus and species. We named the new species Antarctotrechus balli in honour of George E. Ball who made major contributions to the study of carabids through his own research and the training of students while at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The closest extant relatives to the extinct A. balli are species of Trechisibus, which inhabit South America, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, and Tasmanorites, which inhabit Tasmania, Australia. Plant fossils associated with A. balli included Nothofagus (southern beech), Ranunculus (buttercup), moss mats and cushion plants that were part of a tundra biome. Collectively, the stratigraphic relationships and the growth characteristics of the fossil plants indicate that A. balli inhabited the sparsely-vegetated banks of a stream that was part of an outwash plain at the head of a fjord in the Transantarctic Mountains. Other insects represented by fossils in the tundra biome include a listroderine weevil and a cyclorrhaphan fly. The age of the fossils, based on comparison of associated pollen with 40Ar/39Ar dated pollen assemblages from the McMurdo Dry Valleys, is probably Early to Mid-Miocene in the range 14–20 Ma. The tundra biome, including A. balli, became extinct in the interior of Antarctica about 14 Ma and on the margins of the continent by 10–13 Ma. A. balli confirms that trechines were once widely distributed in Gondwana. For A. balli and other elements of the tundra biome it appears they continued to inhabit a warmer Antarctica for many millions of years after rifting of Tasmania (45 Ma) and southern South America (31 Ma).
["Trechini"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Two new species of pontogeneiid amphipods (Crustacea, Senticaudata, Calliopioidea) from Korean waters
Two new pontogeneiid amphipods, Eusiroides pilopalpus sp. n. and Paramoera dentipleurae sp. n., from Korean waters are described and illustrated. Eusiroides pilopalpus sp. n. can be distinguished from congeners by the following characters: mandibular palp article 3 has brush-like setation, maxilla 2 has an inner plate that is not enlarged, and gnathopods 1 and 2 ischium has a well-developed anterior lobe. Paramoera dentipleurae sp. n. can be discriminated from congeners by the following characters: head anterior cephalic lobe is sinusoid, pereopods 5–7 are homopodous and slender, pereopods 6 and 7 basis are proximally lobed but distally diminished on posterior margins, and epimeron 3 is prominently expanded posterodistally.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Description of a new species of Parotocinclus (Siluriformes, Hypoptopomatinae) from the rio Tapajós basin
A new species of Parotocinclus is described from three small tributaries of the rio Tapajós basin, Mato Grosso State, Brazil. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by presenting the following characters: (1) a triangular dark blotch at the anterior base of the dorsal fin, (2) the absence of an adipose fin but presence of one small platelet at typical adipose-fin region, (3) the abdomen completely covered by dermal plates, (4) a pectoral girdle totally exposed, (5) a single series of bicuspid teeth, and (6) the higher number of bicuspid premaxillary and dentary teeth.

A new species of Pentamera Ayres, 1852 from the Brazilian coast (Holothuroidea, Dendrochirotida, Phyllophoridae)
Pentamera paraibanensis sp. n. is described from more than 3000 specimens as a new species of Phyllophoridae from northeast Brazil, in the tropical southwestern Atlantic. It is distinguished from its congeners by the shape of the calcareous ring with moderate posterior processes, and by the tables in the body wall with a usually quadrilocular disc and a low, toothed spire composed of two pillars. The body is brown, with the tube feet in double rows per ambulacrum, and tentacles more lightly colored. The species was found inside rodoliths in large numbers. This paper contains a morphological description of the specimens, and an account of their habitat characteristics.
["Sea cucumber"]

The blowflies of the Madeira Archipelago: species diversity, distribution and identification (Diptera, Calliphoridaes. l.)
Knowledge on the taxonomic diversity and distribution of blowflies from the Madeira Archipelago is updated. New and interesting findings are reported for poorly studied islands and islets of this archipelago, together with a brief analysis of the diversity of Macaronesian Calliphoridaes. l. Seven blowfly species were collected during this study, including the first records of Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819), Lucilia sericata (Meigen, 1826), Pollenia rudis (Fabricius, 1794) and Stomorhina lunata (Fabricius, 1805) from Porto Santo, and of C. vicina, L. sericata and S. lunata from Desertas Islands. The presence of Calliphora loewi Enderlein, 1903 in Madeira Laurisilva forest is discussed and its first instar larva is redescribed, revealing important differences in relation to its original description. An identification key to the adult Madeiran blowflies is provided for the first time.
["Calliphora"]

Descriptions of two new species of the genus Camaena from Guangxi, China (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Camaenidae)
The sinistral Camaena species are mainly distributed in southern China and northern Vietnam. There is a total of eight species or subspecies of sinistral Camaena recorded at present. By systematically collecting specimens in Guangdong, Guangxi and Yunnan in southern China and the northern areas in Vietnam, two new species, Camaena lingyunensis Zhou & Lin, sp. n. and Camaena detianensis Zhou & Lin, sp. n. have been discovered. These new species are here characterised based on the comparison of shells, their reproductive system, the molecular phylogenetic analyses of the mitochondrial genes COI and 16S, and the nuclear gene ITS2. Detailed descriptions of the morphological characters, the DNA sequences, and the habitat of the two new species are given. Differential comparisons with related species are provided as well as a key to the sinistral species of Camaena.
["Camaena detianensis sp. n."]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A taxonomic review of the Hydraenidae in South Korea (Coleoptera)
A taxonomic study of the South Korean Hydraenidae is presented. Eight species in two genera are recognized, one of which is reported for the first time in the Korean peninsula, Ochthebius marinus (Paykull). It was also found that Hydraena riparia Kugelann and O. inermis Sharp previously recorded in South Korea were incorrect identifications of H. puetzi Jäch and O. lobatus Pu, respectively. Habitus and SEM photographs, line drawings of aedeagus, distribution maps, keys, and redescriptions of the species are provided.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Review of the genus Harnischia Kieffer from China (Diptera, Chironomidae), with description of one new species
The genus Harnischia Kieffer, 1921 from China is reviewed and one new species, Harnischia parallela Yan & Wang, sp. n., is described and illustrated as adult male. Harnischia okilurida Sasa is recognized as a new synonym of H. longispuria Wang & Zheng. The pupae of H. fuscimana Kieffer and H. curtilamellata Malloch are redescribed from material collected in China, and an unplaced pupa is described. Key to male adults and pupae of known species of Harnischia from China is given.
["Harnischia"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A biodiversity hotspot for Microgastrinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) in North America: annotated species checklist for Ottawa, Canada
Microgastrinae wasps (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from the city of Ottawa and its surroundings (a 50-km radius circle, ~7,800 km2) were studied based on 1,928 specimens collected between 1894 and 2010, and housed in the Canadian National Collection of Insects. A total of 158 species from 21 genera were identified, which is by far the highest number of species ever recorded for a locality in North America. An annotated checklist of species is provided. Choeras parasitellae (Bouché, 1834) and Pholetesor nanus (Reinhard, 1880) are recorded for the first time in the Nearctic (previously only known from the Palearctic region), Cotesia depressa (Viereck, 1912) is recorded for the first time in Canada (previously only known from the United States), and Cotesia hemileucae (Riley, 1881) and Protapanteles phlyctaeniae (Muesebeck, 1929) are recorded for the first time in the province of Ontario. In Ottawa the most diverse genera are Cotesia, Apanteles, Microplitis, Pholetesor, Microgaster, and Dolichogenidea, altogether comprising 77% of the species found in the area. A total of 73 species (46%) were represented by only one or two specimens, suggesting that the inventory for Ottawa is still relatively incomplete. Seasonal distribution showed several peaks of activity, in spring, summer, and early fall. That general pattern varied for individual species, with some showing a single peak of abundance either in the summer or towards the end of the season, others species attaining two peaks, in late spring and late summer, or in early summer and early fall, and yet others attaining up to three different peaks, in spring, summer and fall. At least 72 of the Microgastrinae species from Ottawa have been previously associated with 554 species of Lepidoptera as hosts – but those historical literature records are not always reliable and in many cases are based on data from areas beyond Ottawa. Thus, our knowledge of the associations between the 158 species of microgastrine parasitoids and the caterpillars of the 2,064 species of Lepidoptera recorded from Ottawa is still very incomplete.
["Microgastrinae"]

Description of the first species of Fiorianteon Olmi (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae) from the Afrotropical region
Fiorianteon sulcatum sp. n. is described from Fianarantsoa Province (Madagascar). It is the first species of Fiorianteon found in the Afrotropical region. The genus Fiorianteon can be distinguished from the closely related genus Conganteon by the distal part of the stigmal vein, which is as long as, or shorter than the proximal part of the stigmal vein (longer than the proximal part of the vein in Conganteon).

A new genus and species of Tettigarctidae from the Mesozoic of northeastern China (Insecta, Hemiptera, Cicadoidea)
A new genus Maculaprosbole of Tettigarctidae with a new species M. zhengi is described based on a complete fossil forewing from the Mesozoic of northeastern China. Due to its broad costal area and clavus, Maculaprosbole zhengi gen. et sp. n. can be attributed to the subfamily Cicadoprosbolinae. This genus is similar to the genera Sanmai and Hirtaprosbole in coloration pattern and forewing venation, respectively. However, it differs from Hirtaprosbole in crossvein r-m absent and apical CuA section strongly curved, running along the nodal line for a distance, and Sanmai in transverse coloration mainly focusing on the postnodal area. Herein, the prominent coloration pattern of this new taxon is discussed.
["Coloration pattern"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A new species of Iotarphia Cameron (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae) from Tasmanian seacoasts, Australia
Iotarphia rufobrunnea Lee & Ahn, sp. n. is described from Tasmania. The new species is compared with another species of the genus, I. australis Cameron. A description, habitus photograph and illustrations of the diagnostic characters are provided.

Two new Liolaemus lizards from the Andean highlands of Southern Chile (Squamata, Iguania, Liolaemidae)
Liolaemus is a diverse genus of lizards, subdivided into two subgenera: Liolaemus (sensu stricto) and Eulaemus, distributed mainly in Chile and Argentina. The L. elongatus-kriegi complex is the most diverse group within Liolaemus (sensu stricto), especially the species closely related to L. elongatus, which form a clade currently comprising nine species. Several Chilean species of this group have been recently described, mainly from volcanoes and poorly explored mountains. Here molecular and morphological evidence are provided for a new species of the L. elongatus clade, which is characterized by its small size and lack of dorsal pattern, unusual features for the species of this group of lizards. Additionally, the lack of precloacal pores in males of Liolaemus (sensu stricto) is a trait found in few species, which do not constitute a monophyletic group. A second new southern Chilean species is also described, without precloacal pores and supported by molecular phylogenetics to be related to Liolaemus villaricensis. Both new species were found in the same locality, near a lake located in a pre-Andean zone with Araucaria and Nothofagus forest. The two species are dedicated to prominent Lonkos (tribal chiefs) of the Mapuche and Pehuenche people: Janequeo and Leftraru. Additionally, the phylogenetic results suggest that L. lonquimayensis is a synonym of L. elongatus.
["Cytochrome b"]

A new species of Lathys from Turkey (Araneae, Dictynidae)
A new species, Lathys ankaraensis sp. n., is described based on the material collected in the Central Anatolia. The new species belongs to the humilis-group. Habitus, as well as copulatory organs of both sexes, are described and illustrated by means of line drawings and digital and SEM photographs. A key for the four Lathys species known in Turkey is also provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Elisesione, a new name for Wesenbergia Hartman, 1955, and the description of a new species (Annelida, Hesionidae)
Wesenbergia Hartman, 1955 (Annelida, Hesionidae) is both preoccupied and a junior homonym of Wesenbergia Kryger, 1943 (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae), and must be renamed. Elisesione nom. n. is proposed as a replacement name, derived from the combination of the first name of the discoverer, Elise Wesenberg-Lund, and Hesione Savigny in Lamarck, 1818. Elisesione mezianei sp. n., is described from the Wallis and Futuna islands (southwest Pacific). A key to separate E. mezianei sp. n. from its congener E. problematica (Wesenberg-Lund, 1950) is included; further, the record of E. problematica for Japan should be regarded as a distinct species because it has palps shorter than antennae (subequal in the type species), and shorter neurochaetal blades (7–9 times longer than wide vs 8–12 times longer than wide in the type species).
["Acicular lobe"]

Rowlandius dumitrescoae species group: new diagnosis, key and description of new cave-dwelling species from Brazil (Schizomida, Hubbardiidae)
The Rowlandius dumitrescoae species group is reviewed and rediagnosed, and its composition is revised. The group now includes R. cousinensis, R. decui, R. dumitrescoae, R. insignis, R. linsduarte, R. monensis, R. peckorum, R. potiguar, R. sul, R. ubajara, and R. pedrosoi sp. n. A new species is described from a cave in northeast Brazil (Santa Quitéria, Ceará). Identification keys and distributional maps are provided for the species of the group. Sixteen species of Schizomida, including five of Rowlandius, are currently recognized from Brazil.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A revision of the shore-fly genus Lamproclasiopa Hendel (Diptera, Ephydridae)
The species of the genus Lamproclasiopa Hendel are revised, including 13 new species (type locality in parenthesis): L. aliceae (United States. New Mexico. Grant: Silver City (Big Ditch; 32°46.4'N, 108°16.5'W; 1790 m)), L. argentipicta (Costa Rica. San José. Zurquí de Moravia (10°2.8'N, 84°0.6'W)), L. auritunica (Bolívia. Oruro: Paznã (S. of the town; 18°36.2'S, 66°54.7'W, 3750 m).), L. brunnea (Costa Rica. San José. Zurquí de Moravia (10°2.8'N, 84°0.6'W)), L. caligosa (Chile. Osorno: Anticura (1 km W; 40°39'S, 72°10'W; 430 m)), L. curva (Chile. Los Lagos: Chiloé Island, Chepu (on seashore; 42°5'S, 73°59.65'W)), L. ecuadoriensis (Ecuador. Orellana: Río Tiputini Biodiversity Station (0°38.2'S, 76°8.9'W)), L. furvitibia (Costa Rica. San José. Zurquí de Moravia (10°2.8'N, 84°0.6'W)), L. lapaz (Bolívia. La Paz: La Paz (6 km NE; 16°25.7'S, 68°04.3'W; 4130m)), L. mancha (Brazil. Paraná: Curitiba, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Reserva Biológica (25°26.9'S, 49°14'W; 915 m)), L. triangularis (Peru. Madre de Dios: Río Manu, Pakitza (11°56.6'S, 71°16.9'W; 250 m)), L. xanthocera (Brazil. Paraná. Curitiba, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Reserva Biológica (25°26.9'S, 49°14'W; 915 m)), L. zerafael (Brazil. Amazonas: Reserva Ducke (02°55.8'S, 59°58.5'W; 40 m)). All known species are described with an emphasis on structures of the male terminalia, which are fully illustrated. Detailed locality data and distribution maps for all species are provided. For perspective and to facilitate genus-group and species-group recognition, the tribe Discocerinini is diagnosed and a key to genera in the New World is provided.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

The jumping spiders from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
Twenty one jumping spider species from South Yunnan are reported, diagnosed, described and illustrated; 19 of them are described as new: Afraflacilla ballarini Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Agorius tortilis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), Bavia exilis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Carrhotus kevinlii Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), Carrhotus sarahcrewsae Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Chinattus wengnanensis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), Chinophrys mengyangensis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), Cocalus menglaensis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), Cosmophasis xiaolonghaensis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), Cytaea yunnanensis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Gedea pinguis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Gelotia zhengi Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Icius bamboo Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Nannenus menghaiensis Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), Pancorius latus Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Phintella lepidus Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), Phintella sancha Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂), Ptocasius paraweyersi Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), and Stenaelurillus fuscus Cao & Li, sp. n. (♂). Females of Bavia capistrata (C.L. Koch, 1846) and Phintella suavisoides Lei & Peng, 2013 are described for the first time. DNA barcodes of 12 species were obtained for future use.

Echinoids of the Kerguelen Plateau – occurrence data and environmental setting for past, present, and future species distribution modelling
The present dataset provides a case study for species distribution modelling (SDM) and for model testing in a poorly documented marine region. The dataset includes spatially-explicit data for echinoid (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) distribution. Echinoids were collected during oceanographic campaigns led around the Kerguelen Plateau (+63°/+81°E; -46°/-56°S) since 1872. In addition to the identification of collection specimens from historical cruises, original data from the recent campaigns POKER II (2010) and PROTEKER 2 to 4 (2013-2015) are also provided. In total, five families, ten genera, and 12 echinoid species are recorded in the region of the Kerguelen Plateau. The dataset is complemented with environmental descriptors available and relevant for echinoid ecology and SDM. The environmental data was compiled from different sources and was modified to suit the geographic extent of the Kerguelen Plateau, using scripts developed with the R language (R Core Team 2015). Spatial resolution was set at a common 0.1° pixel resolution. Mean seafloor and sea surface temperatures, salinity and their amplitudes, all derived from the World Ocean Database (Boyer et al. 2013) are made available for the six following decades: 1955–1964, 1965–1974, 1975–1984, 1985–1994, 1995–2004, 2005–2012. Future projections are provided for several parameters: they were modified from the Bio-ORACLE database (Tyberghein et al. 2012). They are based on three IPCC scenarii (B1, AIB, A2) for years 2100 and 2200 (IPCC, 4th report).
["Echinoidea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Systematics of Ecnomiohyla tuberculosa with the description of a new species and comments on the taxonomy of Trachycephalus typhonius (Anura, Hylidae)
Ecnomiohyla tuberculosa is an Amazonian hylid of uncertain phylogenetic position. Herein DNA sequences of mitochondrial and nuclear genes are used to determine its phylogenetic relationships. New sequences and external morphology of Trachycephalus typhonius are also analyzed to assess the status of Ecuadorian and Peruvian populations. The phylogeny shows unequivocally that Ecnomiohyla tuberculosa is nested within the genus Tepuihyla, tribe Lophiohylini. This position was unexpected because the remaining species of Ecnomiohyla belong to the tribe Hylini. To solve the paraphyly of the genus Ecnomiohyla, E. tuberculosa is transferred to the genus Tepuihyla. Comparisons of DNA sequences, external morphology, and advertisement calls between populations of Ecnomiohyla tuberculosa from Ecuador and Peru indicate that the Peruvian population represents an undescribed species. The new species is described and a species account is provided for Ecnomiohyla tuberculosa. Trachycephalus typhonius is paraphyletic relative to T. cunauaru, T. hadroceps, and T. resinifictrix. The phylogenetic position of populations from western Ecuador indicates that they represent a species separate from T. typhoniussensu stricto. We resurrect the name Hyla quadrangulum (Trachycephalus quadrangulum comb. n.) for those populations. Amazonian populations of “T. typhonius” from Ecuador and Peru are genetically and morphologically distinct from T. typhoniussensu stricto and are conspecific with the holotype of Hyla macrotis. Therefore, we also resurrect Hyla macrotis, a decision that results in Trachycephalus macrotis comb. n.

Two new species and a remarkable record of the genus Dendronotus from the North Pacific and Arctic oceans (Nudibranchia)
Two new species of the nudibranch genus Dendronotus, D. arcticus sp. n. and D. robilliardi sp. n., are described from the Arctic and North Pacific oceans respectively, based on morphological and molecular data, and the North Pacific D. albus is revealed to be a species complex. The species D. robilliardi sp. n. is described from the northwestern Pacific (Kamchatka) differing from the northeastern Pacific D. albus by molecular and morphological data. The synonymy of D. diversicolor with D. albus is confirmed by analysis of their original descriptions. An endemic Arctic species D. arcticus sp. n. is also described here, differing substantially from all species of the genus Dendronotus using morphological and molecular data. An unusual record of the recently described D. kamchaticus Ekimova, Korshunova, Schepetov, Neretina, Sanamyan, Martynov, 2015 is also presented, the first from the northeastern Pacific, geographically separated from the type locality of this species in the northwestern Pacific by a distance ca. 6000 km; molecular data show them to belong to the same species.
["Arctic Ocean"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

First record of the genus Pycnodictya with its subspecies P. galinieri galinieri from Egypt (Orthoptera, Acrididae)
The band-winged Pycnodictya galinieri galinieri (Reiche & Fairmaire, 1849) and its genus Pycnodictya Stål, 1873 (Orthoptera: Acrididae: Oedipodinae) are recorded for the first time for the Egyptian fauna. The species was collected from Gabal Elba, in the southeastern corner of Egypt. This record expands the known distributional range of P. galinieri towards the north of Africa. Descriptions of the genus and the Egyptian subspecies are given using multiple diagnostic characters. The descriptions are supplemented by drawings and photographs of the specimen collected. It is proposed that the genus Pycnodictya belongs to the tribe Locustini.
["Egypt"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

A new Muricea species (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Octocorallia) from the eastern tropical Pacific
The genus Muricea is considered abundant and widely distributed along the eastern Pacific. Its occurrence in shallow waters has been recognised; however species from deeper than 30 m have been rarely recorded. During the 2005 R/V Urracá expedition along the north and central Pacific coast of Costa Rica several octocoral specimens were collected by bottom trawling from 30 to 150 m yielding new species and new records. Herein we describe a new species of Muricea from deeper than 30 m. The morphological characters of the species were analysed and illustrated by optic and scanning electron microscopy. Muricea subtilis sp. n. can be distinguished from the other species in the genus by its thin spiny branches, non-imbricate calyces, white colony and sclerites, and the size and composition of sclerites. Comparative character tables are provided for the closest Muricea species-group. This new species increases the number in the genus to 26, and contributes to the knowledge on the diversity and distribution of mesophotic soft corals in the eastern Pacific.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Review of the East Palaearctic and North Oriental Psyttalia Walker, with the description of three new species (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Opiinae)
The East Palaearctic and North Oriental species of the genus Psyttalia Walker (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Opiinae) are reviewed. Three new species are described and illustrated: P. latinervis Wu & van Achterberg, sp. n. and P. majocellata Wu & van Achterberg, sp. n. from China, and P. spectabilis van Achterberg, sp. n. from Japan. Coeloreuteus formosanus Watanabe, 1934, Opius (Lissosema) proclivis Papp, 1981, O. (Psyttalia) subcyclogaster Tobias, 1998, O. (P.) darasunicus Tobias, 1998, O. (P.) cyclogastroides Tobias, 1998, Psyttalia extensa Weng & Chen, 2001, and Rhogadopsis longicaudifera Li & van Achterberg, 2013, are new synonyms of Psyttalia cyclogaster (Thomson, 1895); Opius (Psyttalia) ophthalmicus Tobias, 1977, and O. (P.) brevitemporalis Tobias, 1998, of Psyttalia carinata (Thomson, 1895) and both O. (P.) vacuus Tobias, 1998, and O. (Lissosema) longurius Chen & Weng, 1995, of Rhogadopsis mediocarinata (Fischer, 1963). Phaedrotoma daghestanicum (Telenga, 1950), Rhogadopsis mediocarinata (Fischer, 1963) and R. mystica (Fischer, 1963) are new combinations. New records are Psyttalia carinata (Thomson, 1895) from The Netherlands and Norway, and P. cyclogaster (Thomson, 1895) from Japan. A lectotype is designated for Psyttalia carinata (Thomson, 1895) and P. cyclogaster (Thomson, 1895). A key to the East Palaearctic and North Oriental species of the genus Psyttalia Walker is included.

A multivariate study of differentiating characters between three European species of the genus Lasiochernes Beier, 1932 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chernetidae)
Morphological variation in three rarely collected European species of the genus Lasiochernes Beier, 1932 is thoroughly examined in the present study. Detailed descriptions of previously ignored morphological characters of L. cretonatus Henderickx, 1998, L. jonicus (Beier, 1929) and L. pilosus (Ellingsen, 1910) are presented. The female of L. cretonatus and the nymphs of L. pilosus are described for the first time. Multivariate morphometric techniques (principal coordinate analysis and discriminant analyses) were employed to confirm morphological differentiation of the three Lasiochernes species and to identify the most reliable characters for their separation. The usefulness of particular body parts for species identification was evaluated. An identification key for the females of the Lasiochernes species studied is provided. Geographic distribution and habitat preferences of the three species are summarized.
["Caves"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

New taxa, including three new genera show uniqueness of Neotropical Nepticulidae (Lepidoptera)
After finding distinct clades in a molecular phylogeny for Nepticulidae that could not be placed in any known genera and discovering clear apomorphic characters that define these clades, as well as a number of Neotropical species that could be placed in known genera but were undescribed, three new genera and nine new species are here described from the Neotropics: Stigmella gallicola van Nieukerken & Nishida, sp. n. reared from galls on Hampea appendiculata (Malvaceae) in Costa Rica, representing the first example of a gall making Stigmella; S. schinivora van Nieukerken, sp. n. reared from leafmines on Schinus terebinthifolia (Anacardiaceae) in Argentina, Misiones; S. costaricensis van Nieukerken & Nishida, sp. n. and S. intronia van Nieukerken & Nishida, sp. n. each from a single specimen collected the same night in Costa Rica, Parque Nacional Chirripó; S. molinensis van Nieukerken & Snyers, sp. n. reared from leafmines on Salix humboldtiana, Peru, Lima, the first Neotropical species of the Stigmella salicis group sensu stricto; Ozadelpha van Nieukerken, gen. n. with type species O. conostegiae van Nieukerken & Nishida, sp. n., reared from leafmines on Conostegia oerstediana (Melastomataceae) from Costa Rica; Neotrifurcula van Nieukerken, gen. n. with type species N. gielisorum van Nieukerken, sp. n. from Chile; Hesperolyra van Nieukerken, gen. n.. with type species Fomoria diskusi Puplesis & Robinson, 2000; Hesperolyra saopaulensis van Nieukerken, sp. n., reared from an unidentified Myrtaceae, Sao Paulo, Brasil; and Acalyptris janzeni van Nieukerken & Nishida, sp. n. from Costa Rica, Guanacaste. Five new combinations are made: Ozadelpha ovata (Puplesis & Robinson, 2000), comb. n. and Ozadelpha guajavae (Puplesis & Diškus, 2002), comb. n., Hesperolyra diskusi (Puplesis & Robinson, 2000), comb. n., Hesperolyra molybditis (Zeller, 1877), comb. n. and Hesperolyra repanda (Puplesis & Diškus, 2002), comb. n. Three specimens are briefly described, but left unnamed: Ozadelpha specimen EvN4680, Neotrifurcula specimen EvN4504 and Neotrifurcula specimen RH2.

A survey of the spider family Nesticidae (Arachnida, Araneae) in Asia and Madagascar, with the description of forty-three new species
Forty-three new species of Nesticidae are described from China, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Madagascar, and two new junior synonyms are suggested. A new genus, Speleoticus gen. n., is described with Nesticus navicellatus Liu & Li, 2013 as the type species, and four species are transferfed from Nesticus, i.e., Speleoticus globosus (Liu & Li, 2013), comb. n., S. libo (Chen & Zhu, 2005), comb. n., S. navicellatus (Liu & Li, 2015), comb. n. and S. uenoi (Yaginuma, 1972), comb. n. The new species described in this paper belong to four genera and are: Hamus cornutus sp. n. (♂♀), H. kangdingensis sp. n. (♂), H. luzon sp. n. (♀), H. mangunensis sp. n. (♂), Nescina kohi sp. n. (♂♀), Nesticella baiseensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. baobab sp. n. (♂), N. caeca sp. n. (♂♀), N. chongqing sp. n. (♀), N. dazhuangensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. fuliangensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. gazuida sp. n. (♀), N. gongshanensis sp. n. (♀), N. griswoldi sp. n. (♂♀), N. hongheensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. huomachongensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. jingpo sp. n. (♀), N. kaohsiungensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. lisu sp. n. (♂♀), N. liuzhaiensis sp. n. (♀), N. nandanensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. phami sp. n. (♂♀), N. potala sp. n. (♀), N. qiaoqiensis sp. n. (♀), N. qiongensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. robusta sp. n. (♂♀), N. rongtangensis sp. n. (♂), N. sanchaheensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. sulawesi sp. n. (♀), N. sumatrana sp. n. (♂), N. tibetana sp. n. (♂♀), N. vanlang sp. n. (♀), N. wanzaiensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. xiongmao sp. n. (♂♀), N. xixia sp. n. (♂♀), N. yanbeiensis sp. n. (♂♀), N. yao sp. n. (♀), N. zhiyuani sp. n. (♂♀), Pseudonesticus dafangensis sp. n. (♂♀), P. miao sp. n. (♂♀), P. spinosus sp. n. (♂♀), P. wumengensis sp. n. (♀), P. ziyunensis sp. n. (♂♀). Nesticella inthanoni (Lehtinen & Saaristo, 1980), syn. n. is synonymised with N. mollicula(Thorell, 1898); N. taiwan Tso & Yoshida, 2000, syn. n. is synonymised with N. odonta (Chen, 1984). The female of Nesticella connectens Wunderlich, 1995, so far unknown, is described and recorded from Thailand. Nesticidae are reported from Madagascar for the first time. Nesticella nepalensis (Hubert, 1973) is recorded for the first time from China. Types of Nesticella odonta (Chen, 1984), N. songi Chen & Zhu, 2004 and N. yui Wunderlich & Song, 1995 are re-examined and photographed. The entire genus Nesticella is reviewed, and four species groups are recognised. DNA barcodes of the new species are obtained to confirm their correct identifications.
["Nesticids"]

Two complete mitochondrial genomes from Praticolella mexicana Perez, 2011 (Polygyridae) and gene order evolution in Helicoidea (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
Helicoidea is a diverse group of land snails with a global distribution. While much is known regarding the relationships of helicoid taxa, comparatively little is known about the evolution of the mitochondrial genome in the superfamily. We sequenced two complete mitochondrial genomes from Praticolella mexicana Perez, 2011 representing the first such data from the helicoid family Polygyridae, and used them in an evolutionary analysis of mitogenomic gene order. We found the mitochondrial genome of P. mexicana to be 14,008 bp in size, possessing the typical 37 metazoan genes. Multiple alternate stop codons are used, as are incomplete stop codons. Mitogenome size and nucleotide content is consistent with other helicoid species. Our analysis of gene order suggested that Helicoidea has undergone four mitochondrial rearrangements in the past. Two rearrangements were limited to tRNA genes only, and two involved protein coding genes.
["Gene rearrangement"]

Three spider species of the genus Mimetus Hentz, 1832 (Araneae, Mimetidae) from China
The present paper deals with three species of the genus Mimetus from China, including M. echinatus Wang, 1990, M. lamelliformis sp. n. (male), and M. wangi sp. n. (female and male). M. lamelliformis differs from the related species M. echinatus Wang, 1990 by: cymbial tip with several slender long macrosetae; cymbium boat-shaped, length/width ratio about 3/1 in retrolateral view; vexillum about 1/2 length of cymbium in retrolateral view. M. wangi sp. n. differs from the related species M. sinicus Song & Zhu, 1993 by: the opisthosoma with a pair of distinct outgrowths in the dorsum; sperm duct nearly horizontal; spermathecae kidney shaped and contiguous. Photos of body and copulatory organs, line drawings of copulatory organs, as well as the locality map are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Taxonomic review of New World Tachyina (Coleoptera, Carabidae): descriptions of new genera, subgenera, and species, with an updated key to the subtribe in the Americas
The classification of the carabid subtribe Tachyina (Trechitae: Bembidiini) is reviewed in light of newly discovered diversity from Central and South America. Described herein are three new genera (Tachyxysta gen. n., Stigmatachys gen. n., Nothoderis gen. n.), two new subgenera of Meotachys (Scolistichus subgen. n., Hylotachys subgen. n.), and two new subgenera of Elaphropus (Ammotachys subgen. n., Idiotachys subgen. n.). Two names previously synonymized under Polyderis (Polyderidius Jeannel, 1962) and Elaphropus (Nototachys Alluaud, 1930) are elevated to generic and subgeneric status, respectively. Eight new species are recognized: Tachyxysta howdenorum (type locality: México: Chiapas: El Aguacero, 680m); Elaphropus marchantarius (type locality: Brazil, Amazonas, Rio Solimões, Ilha de Marchantaria), E. acutifrons (type locality: Brazil: Pará, Santarém) and E. occidentalis (type locality: Perú: Loreto, Pithecia, 74°45'W 05°28'S); Stigmatachys uvea (type locality: Perú: Loreto: Campamento San Jacinto, 2°18.75'S, 75°51.77'W, 175–215m); and Meotachys riparius (type locality: Colombia: Amazonas: Leticia, 700 ft), M. ballorum (type locality: Brazil: Amazonas, Rio Negro Cucui), and M. rubrum (type locality: Perú: Madre de Dios: Rio Manu, Pakitza, 11°56°47'S 071°17°00'W, 356m). An updated key to the genera and subgenera of Tachyina occurring in the New World is provided, with accompanying illustrations.
["Elaphropus"]

Genetic variability of two ecomorphological forms of Stenus Latreille, 1797 in Iran, with notes on the infrageneric classification of the genus (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Steninae)
In this study, the genetic diversity of Iranian populations of two widespread Stenus species representing two ecomorphological forms, the “open living species” S. erythrocnemus Eppelsheim, 1884 and the “stratobiont” S. callidus Baudi di Selve, 1848, is presented using data from a fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene. We evaluate the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I haplotypes and the intraspecific genetic distance of these two species. Our results reveal a very low diversity of COI sequences in S. erythrocnemus in contrast to S. callidus. Moreover, the COI based phylogeny of a selection of Iranian Stenus support the monophyly of some species groups of Stenus proposed by Puthz (2008) and contradicts the traditional infrageneric classification.
["Staphylinidae"]

A new species of Calogalesus Kieffer from China (Hymenoptera, Diapriidae) with a key to World species
A new species of Calogalesus Kieffer, 1912, C. sinicus sp. n., is described and illustrated, collected from a Chinese prickly ash (Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim.) orchard in Yunnan province of China. This is the third described species of the genus in the World. The new species can be distinguished from the other two described Calogalesus species by the head profile, proportions of the antennal segments, tridentate mandible, and mandible length. A key to World species of the genus is provided.

Two new species of the orb-weaver genus Chorizopes from Yunnan, China (Araneae, Araneidae)
Two new species of the orb-weaver genus Chorizopes from Yunnan Province, China are described: C. albus sp. n. (male and female) from the Gaoligong Mountains and Ailao Mountains, and C. longus sp. n. (male and female) from the Gaoligong Mountains. Chorizopes albus sp. n. can be distinguished from the related species C. shimenensis by: 1) median apophysis widest at the middle part versus widest at the base in the latter; 2) median apophysis without the dorsal spur found in that of the latter; 3) spermathecae spherical versus ovoid in the latter; 4) having one pair of large white spots on posterior lateral area of abdomen versus having two pairs of crescent white patches with dark edges on dorsal abdomen in the latter. Chorizopes longus sp. n. can be separated from the similar species C. tumens by: 1) the median apophysis having a knob on the distal half versus having a knob on the basic half in the latter; 2) male palp having a spur versus absent in the latter; 3) the width of the groove between the paracymbium and cymbium as thick as the paracymbium versus two times as thick as the paracymbium in the latter; 4) copulatory duct attached on anterior ventral of the spermatheca versus on anterior dorsal in the latter. Photos of body and copulatory organs, line drawings of copulatory organs, as well as the distribution data are provided. The type specimens are deposited in the College of Life Sciences, at the Hunan Normal University(HNU) and the Museum of Tongren University (MTU).
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Illacme Cook & Loomis, 1928 from Sequoia National Park, California, with a world catalog of the Siphonorhinidae (Diplopoda, Siphonophorida)
Members of the family Siphonorhinidae Cook, 1895 are thread-like eyeless millipedes that possess an astounding number of legs, including one individual with 750. Due to their cryptic lifestyle, rarity in natural history collections, and sporadic study over the last century, the family has an unclear phylogenetic placement, and intrafamilial relationships remain unknown. Here we report the discovery of a second species of Illacme, a millipede genus notable for possessing the greatest number of legs of any known animal on the planet. Illacme tobini sp. n. is described from a single male collected in a cave in Sequoia National Park, California, USA. After 90 years since the description of Illacme, the species represents a second of the genus in California. Siphonorhinidae now includes Illacme Cook & Loomis, 1928 (two species, USA), Kleruchus Attems, 1938 (one species, Vietnam), Nematozonium Verhoeff, 1939 (one species, South Africa) and Siphonorhinus Pocock, 1894 (eight species, India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Vietnam).
["California Floristic Province"]
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

New species of Teratolytta Semenov, 1894 from Turkey and a key to the females (ColeopteraMeloidae)
Teratolytta krejciki sp. n. from Munzur range (E Turkey) and a female belonging to a possible new species from the eastern Pontus range (N Turkey) are described and figured. New records of T. gentilis from southern Turkey are also provided. Difficulties to recognize females of this genus are discussed and a tentative key to the females of all species is proposed with the addition of a photographic plate.

The imagos of some enigmatic members of the Hermanella complex (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae)
The imago stages of three species of the Hermanella complex are described mostly based on material from Roraima, northern Brazil: Hydrosmilodon gilliesae, Hydromastodon sallesi and Leentvaaria palpalis. Male imagos of Hydrosmilodon gilliesae and Leentvaaria palpalis both have a pair of large, broad projections at the posterior margin of the styliger plate, nearly covering the penis lobes; in L. palpalis, however, these projections are fused. The male imago of Hydromastodon sallesi resembles Hydrosmilodon plagatus in that both species have a styliger plate with a robust projection that is curved towards the penis lobes. DNA barcoding is likely to be a powerful investigative tool for identifying and understanding species limits among these Ephemeroptera taxa, especially if it is used within an integrative taxonomic context. An updated identification key to the genera of the Hermanella complex is proposed.

Effects of an increase in population of sika deer on beetle communities in deciduous forests
The overabundance of large herbivores is now recognized as a serious ecological problem. However, the resulting ecological consequences remain poorly understood. The ecological effects of an increase in sika deer, Cervus nippon Temminck (Cervidae), on three insect groups of beetles was investigated: ground beetles (Carabidae), carrion beetles (Silphidae), and dung beetles (Scarabaeidae and Geotrupidae) on Nakanoshima Island, Hokkaido, northern Japan. We collected beetles on Nakanoshima Island (experimental site) and lakeshore areas (control site) and compared the species richness, abundance, diversity index, and community composition of beetles between the sites. Results showed that although both species diversity and abundance of carabid beetles were significantly higher at the lakeshore site, those of dung and carrion beetles were higher at the island site. It was additionally observed that abundance of larger carabid beetles was higher at the lakeshore site, whereas that of small-sized carabid beetles did not differ between the lakeshore and island sites. For dung beetles, abundance of smaller species was higher at the island site, whereas that of large species did not differ between the lakeshore and island sites. Abundance of two body sizes (small and large) of carrion beetles were both higher at the island site. Overall, the findings of this study demonstrated that an increase in deer population altered the insect assemblages at an island scale, suggesting further changes in ecosystem functions and services in this region.
["Ecosystem functions"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Two new jumping spider species of the Habronattus clypeatus group (Araneae, Salticidae, Harmochirina)
Two species of the Habronattus clypeatus species group are described, Habronattus arcalorus sp. n. from Texas and Colorado, and Habronattus gilaensis sp. n. from New Mexico. Habronattus arcalorus males have extravagant ornamentation: a green first leg with an unusually dense lateral fringe of orange and white hairs, and a large grey triangular patella on the third leg with blue-white scales nearby. Habronattus gilaensis males are considerably more muted, lacking ornamentation on the third leg’s patella and tibia. Photographs of living specimens are given, as well as notes on habitat.

Eight new species of Strongylophthalmyia Heller from Vietnam with a key to species from Vietnam and neighbouring countries (Diptera, Strongylophthalmyiidae)
Seventeen species of Strongylophthalmyia are recognized in the fauna of Vietnam, including eight new species: S. annulipes sp. n., S. basisterna sp. n., S. dichroa sp. n., S. gavryushini sp. n., S. obtecta sp. n., S. orchidanthae sp. n., S. stricta sp. n., S. tomentosa sp. n. Strongylophthalmyia angusticollis Frey, S. fascipennis Frey, S. metatarsata Meijere, S. splendida Yang & Wang, and S. thaii Papp are recorded for the first time from Vietnam. The male of S. splendida and female of S. thaii are described for the first time. A key to 34 species of Strongylophthalmyia of the fauna of Vietnam and continental southeast Asia, including the Oriental southern region of China is provided.
["Dipterous fauna"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Occurrence of cavernicolous ground beetles in Anhui Province, eastern China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
Two new species of anophthalmic ground beetles belonging to the subfamily Trechinae are described: Cimmeritodes (Zhecimmerites) parvus Tian & Li, sp. n. and Wanoblemus wui Tian & Fang, gen. n., sp. n. Both were discovered in the limestone caves of Anhui Province in eastern China. C. (Z.) parvus was found in caves Ziwei Dong, Xianren Dong and Qingtai Dong, whereas W. wui was discovered in cave Baiyun Dong. This is the first record of cavernicolous ground beetles in Anhui Province, eastern China.
["Carabid beetle"]

Phylogeography of a good Caribbean disperser: Argiope argentata (Araneae, Araneidae) and a new ‘cryptic’ species from Cuba
The Caribbean islands harbor rich biodiversity with high levels of single island endemism. Stretches of ocean between islands represent significant barriers to gene-flow. Yet some native species are widespread, indicating dispersal across oceans, even in wingless organisms like spiders. Argiope argentata (Fabricius, 1775) is a large, charismatic, and widespread species of orb-weaving spider ranging from the United States to Argentina and is well known to balloon. Here we explore the phylogeography of A. argentata in the Caribbean as a part of the multi-lineage CarBio project, through mtDNA haplotype and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses. The history of the Argiope argentata lineage in the Caribbean goes back 3-5 million years and is characterized by multiple dispersal events and isolation-by-distance. We find a highly genetically distinct lineage on Cuba which we describe as Argiope butchko sp. n. While the argentata lineage seems to readily balloon shorter distances, stretches of ocean still act as filters for among-island gene-flow as evidenced by distinct haplotypes on the more isolated islands, high FST values, and strong correlation between intraspecific (but not interspecific) genetic and geographic distances. The new species described here is clearly genetically diagnosable, but morphologically cryptic, at least with reference to the genitalia that typically diagnose spider species. Our results are consistent with the intermediate dispersal model suggesting that good dispersers, such as our study species, limit the effect of oceanic barriers and thus diversification and endemism.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

The amphibians and reptiles of Mindanao Island, southern Philippines, II: the herpetofauna of northeast Mindanao and adjacent islands
We summarize all available amphibian and reptile species distribution data from the northeast Mindanao faunal region, including small islands associated with this subcenter of endemic vertebrate biodiversity. Together with all publicly available historical information from biodiversity repositories, we present new data from several major herpetological surveys, including recently conducted inventories on four major mountains of northeast Mindanao, and adjacent islands of Camiguin Sur, Dinagat, and Siargao. We present species accounts for all taxa, comment on unresolved taxonomic problems, and provide revisions to outdated IUCN conservation status assessments in cases where our new data significantly alter earlier classification status summaries. Together, our comprehensive analysis of this fauna suggests that the greater Mindanao faunal region possesses distinct subcenters of amphibian and reptile species diversity, and that until this area is revisited and its fauna and actually studied, with on-the-ground field work including targeted surveys of species distributions coupled to the study their natural history, our understanding of the diversity and conservation status of southern Philippine herpetological fauna will remain incomplete. Nevertheless, the northeast Mindanao geographical area (Caraga Region) appears to have the highest herpetological species diversity (at least 126 species) of any comparably-sized Philippine faunal subregion.
["Agusan del Norte"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A taxonomic review of the genus Horniolus Weise from China, with description of a new species (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
Five species of the genus Horniolus Weise, 1901 from China are revised, including the description of a new species, Horniolus hainanensis Chen & Ren, sp. n. Horniolus sonduongensis Hoàng, 1979 is reported from China for the first time. A key to the species from China is provided. Nomenclatural history, diagnoses, detailed descriptions, illustrations, and distribution for each species have been provided. A checklist of all known species of this genus is also presented.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A key to Grouvellinus Champion, 1923 from mainland China with descriptions of two new species (Coleoptera, Elmidae)
A key to Grouvellinus Champion from mainland China is provided. Two new species of Grouvellinus are described from Jiangxi, China, Grouvellinus orbiculatus sp. n. and Grouvellinus sagittatus sp. n. Descriptions, diagnoses, and illustrations of the new species are given. Habitus photos of the nine known species are provided including the four species from Taiwan.

Hydraena Kugelann, 1794 (Coleoptera, Hydraenidae) from the Seychelles, Indian Ocean, with description of a new species
Hydraena matyoti sp. n. (Coleoptera, Hydraenidae) is described from the Seychelles, Indian Ocean. Hydraena mahensis Scott, 1913 is redescribed. The latter is here recorded from La Digue for the first time. A key to the species of the genus Hydraena Kugelann, 1794 of the Seychelles is presented.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Review of Parathoracaphis Takahashi, 1958 with description of a new species from China (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Hormaphidinae)
The aphid genus Parathoracaphis Takahashi, 1958 is reviewed. Parathoracaphis spinapilosa sp. n., found on Quercus sp. and on an unidentified species of Fagaceae in China is described and illustrated. A generic diagnosis and a key to Parathoracaphis species are presented.
["aphid"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Proneotermes macondianus, a new drywood termite from Colombia and expanded distribution of Proneotermes in the Neotropics (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae)
After more than one hundred years, a new drywood termite of the genus Proneotermes is described from the tropical dry forest in the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Morphological and genetic analyses are given for Proneotermes macondianus sp. n. This termite occurs in tropical dry forests in small colonies inside thin branches of dry wood. The soldier of P. macondianus is smaller and the genal horns are angled outward compared to the other two described Proneotermes species. The imago wings are unusually short and wide. Genetic analyses for COII, 12S, and 16S genes show less than three percent difference between sample localities of P. macondianus. Intergeneric comparison with selected kalotermitid genera indicates that Bifiditermes is the most closely related genus of those sequenced. New morphological descriptions and morphometric measurements of Proneotermes latifrons based on the soldier caste are also included. Neotropical locality records for P. latifrons and Proneotermes perezi are provided.
["Northern Colombian coast"]

A new species of pea crab of the genus Serenotheres Ahyong & Ng, 2005 (Crustacea, Brachyura, Pinnotheridae) from the date mussel Leiosolenus Carpenter, 1857 (Mollusca, Bivalvia, Mytilidae, Lithophaginae) from the Solomon Islands
The pea crab genus Serenotheres Ahyong & Ng, 2005 (Pinnotheridae) is currently only represented by one species, S. besutensis (Serène, 1967). A new species is now assigned to this genus, described from a date mussel Leiosolenus obesus Carpenter, 1857 (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Mytilidae: Lithophaginae) collected in the Solomon Islands. Serenotheres janus sp. n. differs from S. besutensis in possessing a conspicuously broader carapace, with the lateral margins of the dorsal lamellum distinctly produced and the posterolateral part deeply concave, the dorsal lamellum being highest at the median cleft, the rostrum is relatively more prominent, the surfaces of the anterolateral margin and hepatic region are less prominently pitted and eroded, the ischiomerus of the third maxilliped is relatively more rectangular, and the P2 merus is proportionately longer.
["Pinnotheridae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

A new species of Melithaea (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Melithaeidae) from the Oman Sea, off Oman
A new species, Melithaea davidi sp. n., is described from the eastern coast of Oman, Oman Sea, in the northwestern Indian Ocean, where it differs from its congeners in lacking capstans and having predominantly spindles in the coenenchyme. A molecular phylogenetic analysis of mtMutS and 28S rDNA genes suggests that it is genetically distinct from similar species in the Red Sea. Furthermore, a species previously reported as Acabaria sp. from the Arabian Sea is now identified as Melithaea mabahissi (Hickson, 1940).
["Persian Gulf"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Two new cestode species of Tetragonocephalum Shipley & Hornell, 1905 (Lecanicephalidea, Tetragonocephalidae) from Himantura randalli Last, Manjaji-Matsumoto & Moore (Myliobatiformes, Dasyatidae) from the Gulf of Oman
The original description of the genus Tetragonocephalum was published more than one hundred years ago but its taxonomic status was clarified only recently. To date, approximately 30 nominal species of this genus have been described, mostly from the northern Indian Ocean, but nearly half of them are invalid and only 14 species are recognized as valid. In the present study two new species of Tetragonocephalum are described from the spiral intestine of Himantura randalli from off Jod, on the northern coast of the Gulf of Oman. Tetragonocephalum sabae sp. n. is distinguishable from the valid species of Tetragonocephalum based on number of proglottids (43−53), number of testes (42−50), and size of scolex (401−453×328−455), acetabula (87−109×72−116), mature proglottids (802−1,333×226−336), cirrus sac (92−160×103−154), and eggs (16−19×11−13). Tetragonocephalum salarii sp. n. can be distinguished from T. sabae sp. n. and all other valid species of Tetragonocephalum based on number of proglottids (77−86). Furthermore, it differs from its congeners based on a combination of some characteristics, including the number of mature (3−7) and gravid (18−20) proglottids, the number of testes (30−38), and the size of acetabula (84−111×80−96), mature proglottids (497−833×334−403), gravid proglottids (1,036−1,482×440−575), testes (20−34×31−50), ovary (123−215×210−278), and eggs (24−45×13−21).
["Tetragonocephalum sabae sp. n."]

A new species of the genus Policordia (Bivalvia, Verticordioidea, Lyonsiellidae) from off the coast of southern California
A new species, Policordia hispida, is described and compared with three similar species: P. densicostata (Locard, 1898); P. pilula (Pelseneer, 1911) and a yet un-described species, Policordia sp. (= P. pilula sensu Ivanova, 1977 not Pelseneer, 1911). This is a first record for the genus in the Californian province.
["Policordia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

New species of Bidessonotus Régimbart, 1895 with a review of the South American species (Coleoptera, Adephaga, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Bidessini)
The South American species of the New World genus Bidessonotus Régimbart, 1895 are reviewed with descriptions of seven new species. This brings the total number of valid Bidessonotus species to 37, making it the largest Bidessini genus in the New World. The new species are B. annae sp. n. (Venezuela), B. josiahi sp. n. (Venezuela), B. palecephalus sp. n. (Venezuela), B. reductus sp. n. (Venezuela), B. septimus sp. n. (Venezuela), B. spinosus sp. n. (Venezuela), and B. valdezi sp. n. (Guyana, Suriname). New distribution records are provided for many other South American Bidessonotus species. The main diagnostic features of Bidessonotus species are in the male genitalia, and these are illustrated for all South American species. Diagnostic features, distributions (including distribution maps), and additional comments are provided for all South American species.
["Water beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Combined morphological and molecular data unveils relationships of Pseudobranchiomma (Sabellidae, Annelida) and reveals higher diversity of this intriguing group of fan worms in Australia, including potentially introduced species
Pseudobranchiomma (Sabellidae, Annelida) is a small and heterogeneous group of fan worms found in shallow marine environments and is generally associated with hard substrates. The delineation and composition of this genus is problematic since it has been defined only by plesiomorphic characters that are widely distributed among other sabellids. In this study we have combined morphological and molecular (mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences) data to evaluate species diversity in Australia and assess the phylogenetic relationships of these and other related sabellids. Unlike morphological data alone, molecular data and combined datasets suggest monophyly of Pseudobranchiomma. In this study, a new species of Pseudobranchiomma is described and three others are considered as potential unintentional introductions to Australian waters, one of them reported for the first time for the continent. Pseudobranchiomma pallida sp. n. bears 4–6 serrations along the radiolar flanges, lacks radiolar eyes and has uncini with three transverse rows of teeth over the main fang. In the new species the colour pattern as well is characteristic and species specific.

Descriptions of two new genera of the spider family Caponiidae (Arachnida, Araneae) and an update of Tisentnops and Taintnops from Brazil and Chile
New members of the spider family Caponiidae from Brazil and Chile are presented. Three new species in previously known genera are described: Taintnops paposo sp. n. from Chile, and the Brazilian Tisentnops mineiro sp. n. and Tisentnops onix sp. n., both belonging to a genus known only from its damaged type. Additionally, two new non–nopine Brazilian genera are proposed: Nasutonops gen. n. including three new species: N. chapeu sp. n., N. sincora sp. n. and N. xaxado sp. n.; and Carajas gen. n., known only from the type species C. paraua sp. n. Both new genera have entire, rather than sub-segmented tarsi. Therefore, they are not included in the caponiid subfamily Nopinae. Nasutonops gen. n. is characterized by the presence of a projected clypeal horn, unique among caponiids. Additionally, the first blind caponiids are described: Tisentnops mineiro sp. n. from the state of Minas Gerais and Carajas paraua sp. n. from the state of Pará. Both of these species are found only in caves and completely lack eyes.

Sea snakes (Elapidae, Hydrophiinae) in their westernmost extent: an updated and illustrated checklist and key to the species in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman
The Persian Gulf is known as the westernmost distribution limit for sea snakes, except for Hydrophis platurus (Linnaeus, 1766) that reaches southeastern Africa. Previous identification guides for sea snakes of the Persian Gulf and its adjacent waters in the Gulf of Oman were based on old data and confined mostly to written descriptions. Therefore, a series of field surveys were carried out in 2013 and 2014 through Iranian coastal waters of both gulfs to provide a comprehensive sampling of sea snakes in the area. This paper presents an illustrated and updated checklist and identification tool for sea snakes in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, which are based on new material and a review of the literature. This checklist includes ten species of marine hydrophiines, of which one, Microcephalophis cantoris (Günther, 1864), is a new record for the area. All specimens examined herein are deposited and available at the Zoological Museum of Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman province, Iran.
["Indian Ocean"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Two new eriophyid mite species associated with Clematis terniflora var. mandshurica in China (Acari, Eriophyidae)
Two new eriophyid mite species associated with Clematis terniflora var. mandshurica, namely Aculops jilinensis sp. n. and Phyllocoptes terniflores sp. n., are described. Both species infest the tender leaves of host plants, inducing severe curling and blistering.
["Aculops"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Study of Mite Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Gondwanamyia, a new empidoid (Diptera) genus of uncertain placement
A new minute-size empidoid fly genus, Gondwanamyia gen. n. and two new species (G. chilensis Cumming & Saigusa, sp. n., G. zealandica Sinclair & Brooks, sp. n.) are described, illustrated, and their distributions mapped. The family and subfamily assignments remain uncertain, but features of the female terminalia potentially suggest Trichopezinae (Brachystomatidae).
["Empidoidea"]

A new species of Charinus Simon 1892 from Brazil, with notes on behavior (Amblypygi, Charinidae)
A new species of Charinus is described and illustrated from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Charinus ruschii sp. n. is found in Santa Lúcia reserve, Espírito Santo state, and is sympatric with C. brasilianus and C. montanus. The new species can be easily distinguished from the other species of the genus by the combination of the following characters: number of spines on the pedipalp tarsus, size and shape of the female genitalia, shape of the sternum and number of teeth in the cheliceral claw. The behavioral repertory is also described for this species based on five hours of qualitative and 24 hours of quantitative observations in order to define the behavioral categories. Five behavioral categories were detected and 21 behavioral acts. The most conspicuous category was Immobility, followed by Antenniform leg movement, Environmental exploration, Self-grooming, and Feeding. It was also found that juveniles spend longer time inside the shelter, even during peaks of adult activity, which could be related to a survival strategy.
["Activity rhythms"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Description of Rhodnius marabaensis sp. n. (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae) from Pará State, Brazil
Rhodnius marabaensis sp. n. was collected on 12 May 2014 in the Murumurú Environmental Reserve in the city of Marabá, Pará State, Brazil. This study was based on previous consultation of morphological descriptions of 19 Rhodnius species and compared to the identification key for the genus Rhodnius. The examination included specimens from 18 Rhodnius species held in the Brazilian National and International Triatomine Taxonomy Reference Laboratory in the Oswaldo Cruz Institute in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The morphological characteristics of the head, thorax, abdomen, genitalia, and eggs have been determined. Rhodnius prolixus and R. robustus were examined in more detail because the BLAST analysis of a cyt-b sequence shows they are closely related to the new species, which also occurs in the northern region of Brazil. The most notable morphological features that distinguish R. marabaensis sp. n. are the keel-shaped apex of the head, the length of the second segment of the antennae, the shapes of the prosternum, mesosternum and metasternum, the set of spots on the abdomen, the male genitalia, the posterior and ventral surfaces of the external female genitalia, and the morphological characteristics of the eggs. Rhodnius jacundaensis Serra, Serra & Von Atzingen (1980) nomen nudum specimens deposited at the Maraba Cultural Center Foundation - MCCF were examined and considered as a synonym of R. marabaensis sp. n.
["Triatominae"]
["Trypanosoma species research and implications", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Two new species of Yaginumaella, Prószyński 1976 from Yunnan, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
The present paper deals with two new species of Yaginumaella, Yaginumaella lushuiensis sp. n. (female and male) and Yaginumaella pseudoflexa sp. n. (female and male). The male of Y. lushuiensis sp. n. differs from the related species Y. flexa Song & Chai, 1992 in ventral view of palpal organ. The female of Y. lushuiensis sp. n. differs from the related species Y. urbanii Żabka, 1981 by: 1) hoods locate at the anterior area of epigynum and far away from the copulatory openings; 2) epigynum about circular; 3) copulatory openings transverse. The male of Y. pseudoflexa sp. n. differs from the related species Y. bulbosa Peng, Tang & Li, 2008 in ventral view of palpal organ: 1) basal portion of embolus touches the margin of genital bulb. 2) distal portion of tibial apophysis covers the posterior margin of cymbium and far away from the margin of genital bulb. The female of Y. pseudoflexa sp. n. differs from the related species Y. urbanii Żabka, 1981 by: epigynum about as long as wide; hoods locate at the anterior area of the epigynum, above the outside area of the copulatory openings and far away from the copulatory openings. Photos of body and copulatory organs, line drawings of copulatory organs, as well as the locality map are provided. Descriptions of morphology are given.

Pleurolucina from the western Atlantic and eastern Pacific Oceans: a new intertidal species from Curaçao with unusual shell microstructure (Mollusca, Bivalvia, Lucinidae)
A new shallow water species of the lucinid bivalve Pleurolucina is described from Curaçao in the southern Caribbean Sea and compared with known species of the genus from the western Atlantic and eastern Pacific Oceans. Although confused with the Floridian species P. leucocyma, it is most similar to the eastern Pacific P. undata. As in all studied lucinids, the new species possesses symbiotic bacteria housed in the ctenidia. The shell microstructure is unusual with repeated and intercalated conchiolin layers that have sublayers of ‘tulip-shaped’ calcareous spherules. Predatory drillings by naticid gastropods frequently terminate at the conchiolin layers.
["Bacterial symbionts"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

An annotated catalogue of the mayfly fauna of Turkey (Insecta, Ephemeroptera)
The mayfly fauna of Turkey was reviewed including all hitherto known distribution records together with references and a few new records. Additionally, comments on taxonomy, identification and nomenclature are provided. Two species are new for the Turkish fauna: Ephemera romantzovi Kluge, 1988 and Thraulus thraker Jacob, 1988. A list of taxa including their recorded distribution in Turkey (according to provinces) is provided in the annotated catalogue. The type locality is also given for each species originally described from Turkey. According to the literature and the new records, 157 mayfly taxa representing 33 genera and 14 families were described from Turkey. Among them, 24 species are considered endemic to Anatolia.
["Annotated catalogue"]

Collembola of the genus Protaphorura Absolon, 1901 (Onychiuridae) in the Eastern Palearctic: morphology, distribution, identification key
Seven new species, Protaphorura jernika sp. n., Protaphorura abscondita sp. n., Protaphorura tuvinica sp. n., Protaphorura vasilinae sp. n., Protaphorura sayanica sp. n., Protaphorura oligopseudocellata sp. n. and Protaphorura nikolai sp. n. from different habitats of the southern Siberia and Far East of Russia, are described. Protaphorura ombrophila (Stach, 1960) is redescribed based on the type specimens. These species differ one from other and from all known species by dorsal and ventral pseudocellar formulae, number of pseudocelli on subcoxae 1 of legs I–III, parapseudocellar formula, chaetotaxy of body, structure of claw, size of postantennal organ and body length. Geographical distribution of all known Protaphorura species of Eastern Palearctic was analysed and an identification key to 50 species was provided.
["Protaphorurini"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Radioactive contamination and transfer"]

Four new species of the genus Otacilia Thorell, 1897 from Hunan Province, China (Araneae, Phrurolithidae)
Four new species of the genus Otacilia Thorell, 1897 are reported from Hunan Province, China: Otacilia hippocampa sp. n., Otacilia yangmingensis sp. n., Otacilia curvata sp. n., and Otacilia submicrostoma sp. n. All new species are described based on both sexes. In addition, the 55 known Otacilia species are divided into four species groups.

Mysidella hoshinoi, a new species from Izu-Oshima Island, Japan (Crustacea, Mysidae, Mysidellinae)
A new mysid, Mysidella hoshinoi sp. n. is described from Izu-Oshima Island, Sagami Sea, central Japan. This species differs from its congeners in having a posterodorsal finger-like papilla on the eyestalk, five peculiar spines terminating in plumed seta on outer margin of carpopropodus of endopod of first thoracopod, and uropodal endopod bearing 27 spines on inner margin.
["Izu-Oshima Island"]

Resurrection of Anolis ustus Cope, 1864 from synonymy with Anolis sericeus Hallowell, 1856 (Squamata, Dactyloidae)
In this study, based on a morphological analysis, the resurrection of the name Anolis ustus Cope 1864, is proposed for populations from the Yucatán Peninsula (Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo, Mexico, and Belize), formerly referred as A. sericeus Hallowell, 1856. Anolis ustus differs from A. sericeus by its mean snout-vent length and number of gorgetal scales in males, in tibia length and head width in females, and dorsal and ventral scales for both sexes. In addition, A. ustus has a small dewlap of similar size between males and females, whereas in A. sericeus males have a dewlap much larger than that of the females. These characteristics allow A. ustus to be identified within the A. sericeus complex. In this study, a description of the characteristics of the hemipenis is also provided, and its importance in the taxonomy of Anolis is discussed.
["Anolis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

A new species of Aulacaspis Cockerell, 1893 from China with a key to Chinese species (Hemiptera, Coccoidea, Diaspididae)
A new species of armored scale insect, Aulacaspis zunyiensis sp. n. is described and illustrated from collections on cycads in China. A key to the Aulacaspis species known from China is provided.
["Aulacaspis"]
["Research on scale insects", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Taxonomic revision of New Guinea diving beetles of the Exocelina danae group, with the description of ten new species (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Ten new species of Exocelina Broun, 1886 from New Guinea are described: E. andakombensis sp. n., E. garaina sp. n., E. injiensis sp. n., E. kabwumensis sp. n., E. marawaga sp. n., E. posmani sp. n., E. tekadu sp. n., E. varirata sp. n., E. wareaga sp. n., and E. woitapensis sp. n. All of them together with five already described species are united into the newly defined E. danae-group (with E. miriae-subgroup), a polyphyletic complex of related species with lateral setation on the median lobe. In the light of newly available material, all previously described species of the E. rivulus-group are considered to belong to a single species, E. damantiensis (Balke, 1998), which is now placed into the E. danae-group, and three new synonyms are therefore proposed: E. madangensis (Balke, 2001) syn. n., E. patepensis (Balke, 1998) syn. n., and E. rivulus (Balke, 1998) syn. n. Exocelina tarmluensis (Balke, 1998) syn. n. is a junior synonym of E. danae (Balke, 1998). Redescription of E. atratus (Balfour-Browne, 1939) is provided based on its type material. An identification key to all known species of the group is provided, and important diagnostic characters are illustrated. Data on the species distribution are given, showing that whilst most species are local endemics, E. damantiensis is extremely widely distributed.
["Exocelina danae-group"]

Revision of the genus Cuvierina Boas, 1886 based on integrative taxonomic data, including the description of a new species from the Pacific Ocean (Gastropoda, Thecosomata)
Shelled pteropods (Gastropoda, Thecosomata, Euthecosomata) are a group of holoplanktonic gastropods that occur predominantly in the surface layers of the world’s oceans. Accurate species identifications are essential for tracking changes in species assemblages of planktonic gastropods, because different species are expected to have different sensitivities to ocean changes. The genus Cuvierina has a worldwide warm water distribution pattern between ~36°N and ~39°S. Based on an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphometric, genetic, and biogeographic information, the two subgenera of Cuvierina, Cuvierinas. str. and Urceolarica, are rejected. A new species is introduced: Cuvierina tsudai sp. n., which has to date been considered the same species as Cuvierina pacifica. Cuvierina tsudai sp. n. is endemic to the Pacific Ocean and is characterised by a shell height of 7.2-8.0 mm, a moderately cylindrical shell shape, the absence of micro-ornamentation and a triangular aperture. Cuvierina pacifica is restricted to the centre of the oligotrophic southern Pacific gyre, has a shell height of 6.6-8.5 mm, a more cylindrical shell shape, no micro-ornamentation and a less triangular aperture than C. tsudai sp. n.
["Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

New genera of Australian stiletto flies (Diptera, Therevidae)
Two new stiletto fly genera of Agapophytinae (Diptera: Therevidae) are described from Australia. Sidarena gen. n. comprises six new species (Sidarena aurantia sp. n., S. flavipalpa sp. n., S. geraldton sp. n., S. hortorum sp. n., S. macfarlandi sp. n., and S. yallingup sp. n.) and is largely endemic to Western Australia. Zelothrix gen. n. is described based on two species; Z. warrumbungles sp. n. is a locally abundant species in Eastern Australia, while Z. yeatesi sp. n. is restricted to southwestern Western Australia. These sister genera are likely closely related to Taenogerella Winterton & Irwin and Actenomeros Winterton & Irwin.
["Stiletto fly"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Five new species of the genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 from Singapore
Five new species of the genus Ischnothyreus are reported from Singapore: I. an Tong & Li, sp. n., I. brunneus Tong & Li, sp. n., I. dactylinus Tong & Li, sp. n., I. poculum Tong & Li, sp. n. and I. tectorius Tong & Li, sp. n. Morphological descriptions and illustrations are given for all new species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

The aquatic annelid fauna of the San Marcos River headsprings, Hays County, Texas
The San Marcos River in Central Texas has been well studied and has been demonstrated to be remarkably specious. Prior to the present study, research on free-living invertebrates in the San Marcos River only dealt with hard bodied taxa with the exception of the report of one gastrotrich, and one subterranean platyhelminth that only incidentally occurs in the head spring outflows. The remainder of the soft-bodied metazoan fauna that inhabit the San Marcos River had never been studied. Our study surveyed the annelid fauna and some other soft-bodied invertebrates of the San Marcos River headsprings. At least four species of Hirudinida, two species of Aphanoneura, one species of Branchiobdellida, and 11 (possibly 13) species of oligochaetous clitellates were collected. Other vermiform taxa collected included at least three species of Turbellaria and one species of Nemertea. We provide the results of the first survey of the aquatic annelid fauna of the San Marcos Springs, along with a dichotomous key to these annelids that includes photos of some representative specimens, and line drawings to elucidate potentially confusing diagnostic structures.
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Lenomyrmex hoelldobleri: a new ant species discovered in the stomach of the dendrobatid poison frog, Oophaga sylvatica (Funkhouser)
The ant genus Lenomyrmex was recently discovered and described from mid to high elevation rainforests in southern Central and northwestern South America. Lenomyrmex currently consists of six described species, which are only rarely collected. Here, we add a new species, Lenomyrmex hoelldobleri sp. n., which was discovered in a stomach content sample of the dendrobatid frog, Oophaga sylvatica, from northwestern Ecuador. Lenomyrmex hoelldobleri can be distinguished from other species in the genus by the presence of a well-developed petiolar node, whereas in all other species the node of the petiole is ill-defined. In addition to the shape of the petiolar node, L. hoelldobleri can be distinguished from the morphologically similar L. costatus by (i) the presence of the metanotal suture, (ii) the direction of the striae on dorsum of propodeum (concentrically transverse in L. hoelldobleri, longitudinal in L. costatus), (iii) the finely striate dorsum of postpetiole, (iv) its larger size, and (v) distinctly darker coloration. We also describe the gyne of Lenomyrmex foveolatus. This collection record from northwestern Ecuador extends the geographic distribution of L. foveolatus 400 km south from its previous record in Colombia. A revised taxonomic key to the workers and gynes of all described Lenomyrmex species is provided. We discuss the taxonomic relationship of L. hoelldobleri to other species in the genus and its biology based on the limited information that is currently available. Finally, we briefly discuss the feeding ecology of dendrobatid poison frogs in the context of providing a valuable source of rarely collected and cryptic new ant species.
["Formicidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Parvitermes (Isoptera, Termitidae, Nasutitermitinae) in Central America: Two new termite species and reassignment of Nasutitermes mexicanus
The termite genus Parvitermes is now recognized on the Central American mainland to include P. mexicanus, new combination (previously in Nasutitermes) and two new species, P. mesoamericanus sp. n. and P. yucatanus sp. n., herein described from soldiers and workers. These three species, nine West Indian Parvitermes, and Antillitermes subtilis all share characteristic enteric valve spines that orientate against intestinal flow. All species are subterranean nesters and cellulose feeders. Evidence is mounting that generic-level endemicity may be completely absent among the West Indian nasutitermitine fauna and that its origins stem from Central America.

A new species of Strongylacron (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Cletodidae) from intertidal mudflats in the Korean peninsula
A new species, Strongylacron glabrum sp. n. is described from intertidal mudflats in the Korean peninsula. The new species is assigned to the monospecific genus Strongylacron Gee & Huys, 1996 in accordance with the generic morphological features of the rostrum, antennary exopod, and thoracic legs. However, Strongylacron glabrum sp. n. is clearly distinguished from the type species, S. buchholtzi (Boeck, 1873), by the naked anterior margin of rostrum, the elongate exopod and endopodal lobe of female P5 approximately 3.5 and 2.7 times as long as width, respectively, and the presence of 8–10 rod-like projections on prosomites. The genus Strongylacron is first recorded from Korean waters by the present study.
["Cletodidae"]

Five new species of Trigonopeltastes Burmeister and Schaum from Central America with new country records for other New World Trichiini (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae)
Five new species of Trigonopeltastes Burmeister and Schaum, 1840 are described: Trigonopeltastes arborfloricola sp. n. from Nicaragua, T. formidulosus sp. n. from Costa Rica, T. henryi sp. n. from Costa Rica, T. mombachoensis sp. n. from Nicaragua, and T. warneri sp. n. from Belize and Guatemala. An updated key to species of Trigonopeltastes is presented. Trigonopeltastes nigrinus Bates, 1889 and Trigonopeltastes carus Bates, 1889 are placed in synonymy with Trigonopeltastes geometricus Schaum, 1841, syn. n.. The males of Trigonopeltastes aurovelutinus Curoe, 2011 and Trigonopeltastes simplex Bates, 1889 are described for the first time. New country records are given for the following: Giesbertiolus ornatus Howden, 1988: Costa Rica; Paragnorimus sambucus Howden, 1970: Guatemala; Trichiotinus bibens (Fabricius, 1775): Canada; Trigonopeltastes archimedes Schaum, 1841: Guatemala and Costa Rica; Trigonopeltastes frontalis Bates, 1889: Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras; Trigonopeltastes glabellus Howden, 1988: Guatemala; Trigonopeltastes geometricus Schaum, 1841: Honduras; Trigonopeltastes sallaei sallaei Bates, 1889: Guatemala and Honduras; Trigonopeltastes simplex Bates, 1889: Mexico; Trigonopeltastes variabilis Howden, 1968: Honduras.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Revision of the genus Gryposmylus Krüger, 1913 (Neuroptera, Osmylidae) with a remarkable example of convergence in wing disruptive patterning
The charismatic lance lacewing genus Gryposmylus Krüger, 1913 (Osmylidae: Protosmylinae) from South East Asia is revised with a new species (G. pennyi sp. n.) described from Malaysia. The genus is diagnosed and both species in the genus redescribed and figured. An extraordinary example of morphological convergence is presented, with disruptive camouflaging wing markings in G. pennyi sp. n. being remarkably similar to the South American green lacewing Vieira leschenaulti Navás (Chrysopidae).
["Osmylidae"]

Taxonomic revision of the New World genus Callotillus Wolcott (Cleridae, Tillinae), with the description of the new genus Neocallotillus, and an illustrated key of identification to species
The New World checkered beetle genus Callotillus Wolcott, 1911 is revised and the new genus Neocallotillus established. The subspecies Callotillus elegans vafer Wolcott is synonymized with the nominal subspecies, C. elegans elegans (Erichson), which is transferred to, and designated as the type species of Neocallotillus gen. n. as Neocallotillus elegans (Erichson, 1847), comb. n. Two additional species are transferred from Callotillus to the new genus: Neocallotillus intricatus (Wolcott & Dybas, 1947), comb. n. and N. crusoe (Wolcott, 1923), comb. n., the latter tentatively and based on Wolcott’s original description. Callotillus is now composed of two species: C. eburneocinctus Wolcott, 1911 and C. bahamensis Vaurie, 1952. All abovementioned species except N. crusoe are diagnosed and redescribed. In the absence of reference material of Neocallotillus crusoe, Wolcott’s original description is transcribed. An illustrated key to species is provided. Characters of taxonomic relevance are illustrated and discussed. Updated distribution maps and locality data for all specimens examined are presented.
["West Indies"]

Tardigrada of Ireland: a review of records and an updated checklist of species including a new addition to the Irish fauna
The phylum Tardigrada was not recorded in Ireland until the Clare Island Survey of 1909–1911, with only rare subsequent reports on Irish tardigrade species. In recent decades, significant taxonomic revision has occurred within Tardigrada. This has resulted in the need for a review of all known historical records from Ireland and Northern Ireland in order to produce an updated checklist of valid taxa. The new checklist includes fifty-one tardigrade species and subspecies including a new addition to the Irish fauna reported herein, Echiniscus quadrispinosus quadrispinosus Richters, 1902 from Newtown, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.
["Tardigrada"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Planetary Science and Exploration"]

Taxonomy of Malagasy Nesomyrmex brevicornis species-group using conventional morphology-based approach
Here we describe the diversity of the Malagasy Nesomyrmex brevicornis-group as the final installment of series describing the complete Malagasy Nesomyrmex fauna. In the current paper introduce the N. brevicornis-group, a newly outlined species group. We split this group from one of the four former groups, N. madecassus-group (sensu Csősz and Fisher 2015). The relatively small number of individuals available within the N. brevicornis-group relative to the large number of OTUs hampers the use of sophisticated statistical techniques to evaluate the morphological data. Instead, we assess the diversity of the N. brevicornis-group via a conventional morphology-based approach relying upon non-numeric characters (shape, sculpture, color etc.) recorded by simple eye inspection. Morphometric data are used as secondary data to confirm the most probable boundaries between species, but without employing statistical analyses. We rejected prior species hypotheses imposed by the primary approach if a non-overlapping range of a single index calculated from continuous numeric traits was found between two hypothesized species. Our methods render every species in this revisionary work separable via both salient features and morphometric traits. Our approach reveals the existence of nine morphologically distinct species, Nesomyrmex brevicornis sp. n., N. brunneus sp. n., N. cingulatus sp. n., N. edentates sp. n., N. flavigaster sp. n., N. longiceps sp. n., N. minutus sp. n., N. punctaticeps sp. n., and N. sellaris sp. n.. Geographic maps showing the distribution of each species are provided, along with an updated key to workers of Malagasy Nesomyrmex species groups that includes the newly outlined N. brevicornis-group.
["Madagascar"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

A new species of Neoperla from China, with a redescription of the female of N. mnong Stark, 1987 (Plecoptera, Perlidae)
A new species of the Neoperla clymene group (Plecoptera, Perlidae), N. chebalinga sp. n. from Guangdong Province of southern China is described, illustrated, and compared with related taxa. The new species is characterized by the slender aedeagal tube, strongly sclerotized dorsally, and weakly sclerotized ventrally with an upcurved, medial, finger-like membranous lobe. Additionally the aedeagal sac gradually tapers to a blunt apex with a dorsoapical patch of spines. A supplementary description of the female of N. mnong Stark, 1987 from Guangdong Province, China is also given.

Type material of Platyhelminthes (Monogenoidea) housed in the Helminthological Collection of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute/ FIOCRUZ (CHIOC), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 1979 to 2016
A catalogue of type material of monogenoids deposited in the Helminthological Collection of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ (CHIOC), between 1979 and 2016, is presented, given that the last list of types was produced in 1979. The monogenoid collection comprises type lots for 203 species, distributed across 14 families and 68 genera. Specific names are listed systematically, followed by type host, infection site, type locality, specimens with the collection numbers and references. The classification and the nomenclature of the species have been updated.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation"]

Review of Pseudacrobasis Roesler, 1975 from China (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Phycitinae)
The genus Pseudacrobasis is reviewed for China. Pseudacrobasis dilatata sp. n. is described as new and compared with P. tergestella (Ragonot, 1901). Images of adults and illustrations of genital structures are provided.

Sphaerodoridae (Annelida) of the deep Northwestern Atlantic, including remarkable new species of Euritmia and Sphaerephesia
Sphaerodoridae (Annelida) is a seeming uncommon and minimally diverse group of polychaetes in the northwestern Atlantic, with only seven species reported from the United States, and none from the eastern coast of Canada, before the present study. Review of the large Smithsonian collection (National Museum of Natural History, Washington) revealed the presence of two morphologically extraordinary undescribed species and added a new record to the north-western Atlantic region. Euritmia carolensis sp. n. is characterised by bearing approximately 20 sessile spherical papillae arranged in three transverse rows per segment, ventrum with 4–6 larger papillae near the parapodial bases and parapodia without papillae; bearing 4–5 simple chaetae that are enlarged subdistally. Sphaerephesia amphorata sp. n. is distinguished from other congeners in the presence of four longitudinal rows of sessile, bottle-shaped macrotubercles with exceptionally long digitiform terminal papilla, and parapodia with four rounded and small papillae, bearing 4–7 compound chaetae, with blades 7–11 times as long as wide. Other encountered species are also herein re-described, including intraspecific variation and updated iconography. Comparison of material also allowed some systematic changes in the group, including the synonymisation of the genus Amacrodorum with Euritmia, and the transfer of Ephesiopsis shivae to Ephesiella. A key to the species reported from the Northwestern Atlantic is provided.
["Generic synonymy"]

Definition of the jianfengling species group of the ground beetle genus Orthogonius MacLeay (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Orthogoniini)
The jianfengling species group of the termitophilous carabid genus Orthogonius MacLeay, 1825 is defined and reviewed. This species group ranges from southern China, crossing Indochina and Myanmar to eastern India. To date, the jianfengling species group is composed of ten species, including six new species which are hereinafter described and illustrated: O. wrasei sp. n. (Myanmar), O. bellus sp. n. and O. limbourgi sp. n. (Vietnam), O. politior sp. n., O. aberlenci sp. n. (Laos) and O. meghalayaensis sp. n. (India). Habitus, elytral apices and male genitalia of all species are illustrated. A key to species and a distribution map of jianfengling species group are provided.
["Carabids"]

Borniopsis mortoni sp. n. (Heterodonta, Galeommatoidea, Galeommatidaesensu lato), a new bivalve commensal with a synaptid sea cucumber from Japan
The Galeommatoidea is a bivalve superfamily that exhibits high species diversity in shallow waters. Many members of this superfamily are associated commensally with burrowing marine invertebrates in benthic sediments. The genus Borniopsis is known only from eastern Asia and exhibits high host diversity (e.g., mantis shrimps, crabs, holothurians, sipunculans and echiurans). A new species, Borniopsis mortoni sp. n., is described from mud flats at the mouth of the Souzu River, southwestern Shikoku Island, Japan. This species has elongate-ovate shells covered by a tan to dark brown periostracum, and lives attached by both its foot and byssal threads to the body surface of the synaptid sea cucumber Patinapta ooplax. Several individuals of B. mortoni are often found on the same host, but sometimes more than 10 individuals can occur together. Borniopsis mortoni is one of the smallest species in this genus. Probably, its small body size is an adaptation to the mode of life in a narrow host burrow. Until now, only two other Borniopsis species were known to have commensal associations with synaptids. Thus, this is the third example of a synaptid-associated species from this genus. In addition, we briefly review the galeommatoideans commensal with apodid sea cucumbers.
["Apodida"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Aquatic life and conservation", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Prognathodes basabei, a new species of butterflyfish (Perciformes, Chaetodontidae) from the Hawaiian Archipelago
A new species of the butterflyfish genus Prognathodes is described from specimens collected at a depth of 55–61 m off Pearl and Hermes Atoll, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This species has been observed by mixed-gas divers and from submersibles at depths ranging from 45–187 m throughout the Hawaiian Archipelago, with shallower sightings in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and deeper in the Main Hawaiian Islands. It is similar to P. guezei (Maugé and Bauchot 1976) from the western Indian Ocean, and at least one other undescribed species of Prognathodes from Palau, differing from these species in the number of soft dorsal-fin rays, size of head, and body depth. There are also differences in the life color, and a substantial genetic difference from the Palauan species (d » .08 in mtDNA cytochrome oxidase I).
["Mesophotic Coral Ecosystem"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Sinocoelotes gen. n., a new genus of the subfamily Coelotinae (Araneae, Agelenidae) from Southeast Asia
A new genus of the spider subfamily Coelotinae, Sinocoelotes gen. n., with nine new species, is described from Yunnan and Sichuan Provinces in southern China. The new species are: Sinocoelotes cangshanensis sp. n. (♀), S. hehuaensis sp. n. (♂♀), S. luoshuiensis sp. n. (♀), S. mangbangensis sp. n. (♀) from Yunnan; S. kangdingensis sp. n. (♀), S. ludingensis sp. n. (♂♀), S. mahuanggouensis sp. n. (♀), S. muliensis sp. n. (♀), and S. yanyuanensis sp. n. (♂) from Sichuan. In addition, six Coelotes species are transferred to the new genus: Sinocoelotes acicularis (Wang, Griswold & Ubick, 2009), comb. n. (♂♀), S. forficatus (Liu & Li, 2010), comb. n. (♂♀), S. guangxian (Zhang, Yang, Zhu & Song, 2003), comb. n. (♂♀), S. pseudoterrestris (Schenkel, 1963), comb. n. (♂♀), S. pseudoyunnanensis (Wang, Griswold & Ubick, 2009), comb. n. (♂♀) and S. thailandensis (Dankittipakul & Wang, 2003), comb. n. (♂♀). DNA barcodes of all the species were documented for future use.

Sumakuru, a deeply-diverging new genus of lyssomanine jumping spiders from Ecuador (Araneae: Salticidae)
The lyssomanine jumping spider genus Sumakuru gen. n. is here described for Sumakuru bigal sp. n., from the Bigal River Biological Reserve in Ecuador. Known from a single male, the embolus of the palp takes the form of a smoothly arching curve, and appears fully mobile, being connected to the tegulum by a thin sclerite and a twisted hematodocha. Data from four gene regions (28S, 16SND1, CO1, wingless) indicate that Sumakuru is the sister group to all other sampled lyssomanines, diverging deeply on the stem lineage of the clade of other known lyssomanines. Unlike previous molecular results, the sampled species of Lyssomanes Hentz, 1845 are supported as monophyletic, with Chinoscopus Simon, 1900 as the sister to Lyssomanes.
["Jumping spider"]

A new species of Websterinereis from the Gulf of California and redescription of Websterinereis foli (Fauvel, 1930) (Annelida, Nereididae)
A new species of Websterinereis Pettibone, 1971, W. pettiboneae sp. n. is described from La Paz Bay, Gulf of California, Mexico. This species is similar to W. foli (Fauvel, 1930) in the neuropodial falcigers shape, but can be separated by the tentacular cirri length, notopodial prechaetal lobe shape, and the size of the notopodial dorsal and ventral ligules on posterior parapodia. Websterinereis foli is redescribed based upon type material. Additional observations on the inter-annual density variation of W. pettiboneae sp. n. during a four-year study are also provided. A key to all species of Websterinereis is included.
["Mexico"]

Revision of Partulidae (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora) of Palau, with description of a new genus for an unusual ground-dwelling species
We describe a new stylommatophoran land snail of the family Partulidae from Palau. The new species has a combination of morphological and ecological characters that do not allow its placement in any existing partulid genus, so we describe a new genus for it. The new genus is characterized by a large (18–23 mm) obese-pupoid shell; smooth protoconch; teleoconch with weak and inconsistent, progressively stronger, striae; last half of body whorl not extending beyond the penultimate whorl; widely expanded and reflexed peristome; relatively long penis, with longitudinal pilasters that fuse apically into a fleshy ridge that divides the main chamber from a small apical chamber; and vas deferens entering and penial-retractor muscle attaching at the apex of the penis. Unlike all other partulids, the new species is strictly associated with rocks in contact with the ground. Comparing the other three Palauan species – currently assigned to Partula – to our new genus and to other partulids makes it clear that they require their own genus because their morphology is quite different from that of true Partula and from that of all other genera. Hence, we resurrect the name Palaopartula Pilsbry for these snails.
["Land snail"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Helminth infection and control"]

A new species of Patania from the Hainan Island, China (Lepidoptera, Crambidae)
Patania clava sp. n. is described from the Diaoluo Mountain of Hainan Island, China. The new species is distinguished from its most similar congener, P. iopasalis (Walker, 1859), by the following features: wingspan 33.0–35.0 mm (vs. 21.0–30.0 mm), ventral cilia of the male antenna as long as the diameter of flagellomere (vs. 1/4), the thick finger-like gnathos (vs. the short broad sheet-like), a long thick needle-like cornutus stretching out from (vs. embedded in) a cluster of spicular cornuti near apex. Images of adult and genitalia of the new species are provided.
["Diaoluo Mountain"]

A new species of Falsopodabrus Pic characterized with geometric morphometrics (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
A new species of Falsopodabrus Pic, 1927 is described, F. tridentatus Yang, sp. n. (Yunnan, China). Geometric morphometric analyses based on the shapes of pronotum and hind wing and comparisons with two sibling species, F. himalaicus Wittmer, 1974 and F. martensi (Wittmer, 1979), support the valid status of the new species, also confirmed by the characters of tarsal claws. In addition to F. himalaicus and F. martensi, F. kostali Švihla, 2004 and F. rolciki Švihla, 2004 are recorded from China for the first time.
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

New species of Trophoniella from Shimoda, Japan (Annelida, Flabelligeridae)
Trophoniella hephaistos sp. n. was collected from a tank irrigated with seawater pumped directly from Nabeta Bay, Japan. This species is discriminated from other Trophoniella by having dorsal tubercles, a tongue-shaped branchial plate, a tunic covered with large sediment grains dorsally and ventrally, having eyes, and anchylosed neurohooks starting from chaetigers 17–20. This is the first record of Trophoniella from Japanese waters. Identification keys to species of Trophoniella and four gene sequences (COI, 16S, 18S, 28S) of this species are provided. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted to clarify phylogenetic position of Trophoniella in Flabelligeridae using four genes.
["Nabeta Bay"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Two new species of Coleoxestia Aurivillius, 1912 from Brazil (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae, Cerambycini)
Two new species of Coleoxestia Aurivillius, 1912 are described from Brazil: C. apeara, and C. moromokoi. Both are included in a previous key.
["Amazonian region"]

Descriptions of a new species of Foenatopus Smith from China and the male of Parastephanellus brevicoxalis (Hymenoptera, Stephanidae)
A new species of the stephanid genus Foenatopus Smith, Foenatopus weii sp. n., is described and illustrated from Yunnan Province, China. A modified section of the identification key to species of Foenatopus is added to include the new species. The male of Parastephanellus brevicoxalis Hong, van Achterberg & Xu, 2011 from Guangdong Province, China is also described and illustrated for the first time.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Four new species of Gasteruption Latreille from NW China, with an illustrated key to the species from Palaearctic China (Hymenoptera, Gasteruptiidae)
Four new species of the genus Gasteruption Latreille, 1796 (Hymenoptera: Evanioidea: Gasteruptiidae: Gasteruptiinae) are reported from NW China: three from Shaanxi province and one from Ningxia province. The new species (G. bicoloratum Tan & van Achterberg, sp. n., G. huangshii Tan & van Achterberg, sp. n., G. pannuceum Tan & van Achterberg, sp. n., and G. shengi Tan & van Achterberg, sp. n.) and three newly recorded species (G. sinepunctatum Zhao, van Achterberg & Xu, 2012, G. boreale (Thomson, 1883) and G. oshimense Watanabe, 1924) are keyed and fully illustrated. In total, seven species are known from Shaanxi province, which is approximately half of the expected number. The East Palaearctic specimens provisionally identified as G. tournieri Schletterer, 1885, by Zhao et al. (2012) are included under G. oshimense Watanabe, 1924.
["Gasteruption"]

Yamatochaitophorus yichunensis, a new species of aphid (Aphididae: Chaitophorinae) from northeast China
Yamatochaitophorus yichunensis sp. n. is described from specimens collected in northeast China on Acer tegmentosum (Aceraceae). Yamatochaitophorus is also a new generic record for China. Type specimens are deposited in the National Zoological Museum of China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (NZMC) and the Natural History Museum, London, UK (BMNH).
["Aphididae"]

Composition and natural history notes of the coastal snake assemblage from Northern Bahia, Brazil
Information about the snake diversity and their natural history from the Atlantic forest domain in Brazil refer mostly to inland forests than to coastal region. Within the state of Bahia, this knowledge is concentrated to the southeastern coastal stretch. Herein we report on the diversity of snakes from the restinga, ombrophilous forest and anthropogenic environment from the northern Atlantic coast of Bahia. We sampled nine sites for three years and visited four museum collections. Furthermore, we provide anecdotal natural history information, voucher analyses, literature complements, and a key to fascilitate species identification. We report a total of 774 snakes belonging to 50 species and 23 new distribution records for northeastern coast of Bahia, supplemented by new data on feeding and reproduction. The number of detected species is similar to numbers obtained in comparable studies from other Brazilian ecoregions. This study reports and focuses for the first time on all known species of snakes from the northeastern coast of Bahia.
["Atlantic forest"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Revisions of the genera Lurama Schaus, 1928 and Ulmara Schaus, 1928 (Lepidoptera, Mimallonoidea, Mimallonidae) with the descriptions of three new Ulmara species and a new genus
The Andean genera Lurama Schaus, 1928 and Ulmara Schaus, 1928 are revised. Lurama poses difficulty for revision due to lost male genitalia of the types of both described species. Ulmara conjuncta sp. n., U. azurula sp. n., and U. dombroskiei sp. n. are described as new in the genus Ulmara. A lectotype is designated for Lurama quindiuna Schaus, 1928 and Ulmara rotunda (Dognin, 1916). A new monotypic genus, Cunicumara gen. n., which is externally similar to Ulmara, is described to include the new species Cunicumara anae sp. n. from low elevations of Bolivia and Paraguay. Male genital morphology does not support a close association of Cunicumara with Lurama or Ulmara. The latter two genera, however, are closely related based on similarities of male genitalia and biogeography.
["Andean"]

Two new species of Sinella from Guangdong Province, China (Collembola: Entomobryidae)
Two new blind species of Sinella are described from Guangdong Province, China. Sinella colubra sp. n. possesses minute smooth postlabial chaetae, long mucronal spine, and 4+4(5) lateral mac on Abd. IV, and can be distinguished from two closely related species by the postlabial chaetae and the dorsal macrochaetotaxy. Sinella zhangi sp. n. is also described and can be diagnosed by having minute labial chaeta r and postlabial chaetae X and X4, 5+5 mac on Abd. I, 4+4 central mac on Abd. II, and 4+4 central and 5+5 lateral mac on Abd. IV.
["Blind species"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Faunistic patterns of leaf beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) within elevational and temporal gradients in Sierra de San Carlos, Mexico
The study of biodiversity of Chrysomelidae in Mexico and its variation within ecological gradients has increased recently, although important areas in the country remain to be explored. We conducted a faunistic inventory and analyzed the elevational and temporal variation of leaf beetle communities in the Sierra de San Carlos, in the state of Tamaulipas, in northeastern Mexico. This is an area with high to extreme priority for conservation, and due to its insular geographical position and to the vegetational communities present, it must be considered as a sky island. We selected seven sample sites distributed in different elevations within three localities, and comprising different vegetational communities. At each site, we randomly delimited 12 sample plots of 400 m2 where sampling was conducted by entomological sweep netting and collecting directly by hand. Sampling was conducted monthly at each plot, for a total of 1,008 samples between February 2013 and January 2014. By the end of the study, we had obtained a total of 3,081 specimens belonging to six subfamilies, 65 genera, and 113 species, with Trichaltica scabricula (Crotch, 1873) being recorded for first time in Mexico. Species richness was less than the values observed at other studies conducted in the same region, which is attributed to differences in the number of plant species and to the insular location of Sierra de San Carlos; however, the higher diversity values suggest a higher quality of natural resources and vegetational communities. No consistent pattern of leaf beetle communities was correlated with elevation, although higher values of species richness and diversity were obtained at the highest elevation site. The seasonal gradient showed that the rainy season is most favorable for leaf beetle communities. We found that species composition was different between sites and months, and also that there exists a significant association between the abundance obtained at each site and particular months. These results highlight the importance of different microhabitats for species distribution, and suggest that each species of Chrysomelidae has a differential response to environmental factors that vary within the elevational gradient and according to seasons. Also, we confirm and emphasize the important status of Sierra de San Carlos as a key natural area for biological conservation.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A reassessment of the phylogenetic utility of genus-level morphological characters in the family Bogidiellidae (Crustacea, Amphipoda), with description of a new species of Eobogidiella Karaman, 1981
Bogidiellidae is the most diverse and cosmopolitan family of stygobiotic amphipods, and inhabits a variety of subterranean biotopes, especially interstitial habitats. While the family is characterized by considerable sexual dimorphism, this dimorphism has adversely affected our understanding of the systematics of the group. Most species have restricted geographic ranges and occur in difficult to sample habitats, so it is common for individual species descriptions to be based on a single sex. In this work we revisit an analysis of morphological characters in an attempt to clarify their phylogenetic utility in resolving taxonomic relationships among genera by introducing a new species, two additional characters, and phylogenetic statistical support values. Eobogidiella venkataramani sp. n., from a spring fed brook in the Shirawati River basin along the escarpment of the Western Ghats (Karnataka, India) differs from the only known congener, Eobogidiella purmamarcensis, from Argentina, in the structure of mouthparts, the shape and ornamentation on gnathopods and characters of the telson. Our phylogenetic analyses indicate that the available morphological characters are not sufficient to resolve phylogenetic relationships within Bogidiellidae, thus these characters alone cannot be used to determine the phylogenetic placement ofE. venkataramani sp. n. within the family. Nevertheless, E. venkataramani sp. n. shares diagnostic characters with Eobogidiella, supporting placement of the new species in this genus. Our findings point towards a critical need to resolve relationships within the family using molecular approaches, along with the development of a suite of additional morphological characters for Bogidiellidae. This is the third species of Bogidiellidae from southern India.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

First report of the genus Cratera (Platyhelminthes, Geoplanidae) in Argentina, with description of a new species and comments on the species of the genus
A new species of land planarians of the genus Cratera is described. Cratera viridimaculata sp. n. was recorded in the Atlantic Forest Ecoregion, in north-eastern Argentina, and represents the first report of the genus Cratera outside Brazil. The new species is about 50 mm in length and externally characterized by a color pattern consisting of a light green olive pigmentation on the dorsum, stippled with dark gray fine spots, and dorsal eyes. Other features regarding the internal anatomy are the presence of a glandular margin, Cutaneous Muscular Index (CMI) of 10–13%, pharynx cylindrical, prostatic vesicle extrabulbar, tubular and C-shaped, with a proximal bifurcated portion, penis papilla protrusible with ejaculatory duct widened in its distal portion, and female atrium funnel-shaped. The new species is compared and discussed with its congeners.
["Cratera viridimaculata sp. n."]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Redescription of two species of Oplitis Berlese (Acari, Mesostigmata, Oplitidae) from Iran
Two new species records of Oplitidae, Oplitis exopodi Hunter & Farrier, 1975 and Oplitis sarcinulus Hunter & Farrier, 1976 are redescribed based on Iranian specimens from leaf-litter forest in Mazandaran province, northern Iran. A key to the Iranian species of Oplitis is presented.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

A new species of frog of the genus Pristimantis from Tingo María National Park, Huánuco Department, central Peru (Anura, Craugastoridae)
A new species of Craugastoridae frog encountered from 1000–1700 m in elevation in the premontane forests of the Peruvian central Andes is described. The new species is similar in appearance to many other species of Pristimantis, but is easily distinguishable from these species by having bright red coloration on the groin, posterior surface of thighs, and shanks. The new species is only known for two localities 27 km apart in the Huánuco Region.

A new species of earth snake (Dipsadidae, Geophis) from Mexico
A new species of the Geophis dubius group is described from the mountains of the Sierra Zongolica in west-central Veracruz and the Sierra de Quimixtlán in central-east Puebla. The new species is most similar to G. duellmani and G. turbidus, which are endemic to the mountains of northern Oaxaca and the Sierra Madre Oriental of Puebla and Hidalgo, respectively. However, the new species differs from G. duellmani by the presence of postocular and supraocular scales and from G. turbidus by having a bicolor dorsum. With the description of the new species, the species number in the genus increases to 50 and to 12 in the G. dubius group. Additionally, a key to the species of the G. dubius group is provided.
["Dipsadidae"]

Three new species of the subgenus Leipopleura Seidlitz from Tibet, China (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Bioramix Bates)
Three new species of darkling beetles (Tenebrionidae) belonging to the subgenus Leipopleura of the genus Bioramix Bates, 1879, B. (L.) baqenensis Li & Egorov, sp. n., B. (L.) nyainrongensis Li & Egorov, sp. n., and B. (L.) banbarensis Li & Egorov, sp. n. are described from the Tibet Autonomous Region in China. Additionally, a new identification key is provided to all known Chinese representatives of the subgenus Leipopleura.
["Darkling beetles"]
["Membrane Separation Technologies", "Membrane-based Ion Separation Techniques", "Extraction and Separation Processes"]

Herniosina Roháček: revised concept, two new species, new key and atlas of male and female terminalia (Diptera, Sphaeroceridae)
The taxonomic concept of Herniosina Roháček, 1983 (Diptera: Sphaeroceridae) is revised on the basis of five W. Palaearctic species, thus excluding the E. Nearctic Herniosina voluminosa Marshall, 1987 whose inclusion caused the paraphyly of the genus. Two new species, H. erymantha sp. n. (male only, Greece: Peloponnese) and H. hamata sp. n. (both sexes, Cyprus), are described and illustrated, and the other three species, H. bequaerti (Villeneuve, 1917), H. horrida (Roháček, 1978) and H. pollex Roháček, 1993, are diagnosed with an atlas of their male and female terminalia. The relationships of the redefined genus and of all its species are discussed, and their biology and distribution are reviewed. A new illustrated key to Herniosina species is given.

Taxonomic notes on the genus Orthobrachia Warren, with description of a new species from China and Thailand (Lepidoptera, Geometridae)
All seven members of the genus Orthobrachia Warren, 1895 are recorded, with description of a new species from Sichuan Province, China and N. Thailand, including O. latifasciata (Moore, 1888) and O. flavidior (Hampson, 1898) from northern India, Nepal and China, O. tenebrosa Yazaki, 1992 from Nepal and India, O. owadai Yazaki, 1992 from India, O. simpliciata Yazaki, 2002 from China, and O. maoershanensis Huang, Xin & Wang, 2003 from South China. A key to the Orthobrachia species is provided, along with a distributional map of all nominal species. The type specimens of the new species are deposited in Hunan Agricultural University (China), South China Agricultural University (China) and Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig (Germany).
["Ennominae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Calosoma aethiops (Jeannel, 1940) as a new synonym of Calosoma imbricatum hottentotum Chaudoir, 1852, a new status of Calosoma roeschkei Breuning, 1927, and a revision of the Calosoma senegalense group sensu Häckel, 2012 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Carabini)
Calosoma aethiops (Jeannel, 1940) as a new synonym of Calosoma imbricatum hottentotum Chaudoir, 1852, a new status of Calosoma roeschkei Breuning, 1927, and a revision of the Calosoma senegalense group sensu Häckel, 2012 (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Carabini). Conducted is a taxonomic revision of the Calosoma senegalense group sensu Häckel, 2012. Placed in the group sensu stricto are four species: C. planicolle Chaudoir, 1869, C. scabrosum Chaudoir, 1843, C. senegalense Dejean, 1831, and C. strandi Breuning, 1934. Calosoma aethiops Jeannel, 1940 is synonymized with C. imbricatum hottentotum Chaudoir, 1852, and C. roeschkei Breuning, 1927 is newly regarded as a subspecies of C. scabrosum. The taxonomic conclusions are based on morphometry of the holotypes and 10 male and 10 female specimens of each taxon, and on morphology of the aedeagus including inflated endophalus.

Revision of the genus Ptomaphagus Hellwig (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae) from Taiwan Island
Ptomaphagus (s. str.) chenggongisp. n. and P. (s. str.) tingtingaesp. n. (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae, Ptomaphagini) are described from Taiwan Island. In addition, a new subjective synonym is proposed, P. (s. str.) yasutoshii Nishikawa, 1993 = P. (s. str.) smetanai Perreau, 1996, syn. n. Relevant morphological characters of the examined Ptomaphagus species are illustrated with colour plates, and their known distributions are mapped.
["Leiodidae"]

Revision of the genus Ptomaphagus Hellwig (Coleoptera, Leiodidae, Cholevinae) from Japan
After examining Japanese material of Ptomaphagus Hellwig from various collections, a new species is described, P. (s. str.) piccoloisp. n., and a new subjective synonym proposed, P. (s. str.) kuntzeni Sokolowski, 1957 = P. (s. str.) amamianus Nakane, 1963, syn. n., in this paper. Relevant morphological characters of examined species of Ptomaphagus are illustrated with colour plates, and known distributions are mapped.
["Leiodidae"]

A new species of Monocheres Stock (Copepoda, Siphonostomatoida, Asterocheridae) from shallow waters off Florida, USA: an unexpected discovery
The rare asterocherid copepod genus Monocheres, ectosymbionts of corals and sponges, contains only two species, one from Mauritius (Indian Ocean) and the other one from Brazil (western Atlantic). From the analysis of the digestive caecum contents of the benthic hesionid polychaete Hesione picta Müller, 1858, an adult female of an undescribed species of Monocheres was unexpectedly recovered; it is the third species of this rare asterocherid genus. The new species, M. sergioi sp. n., has the distinctive reduction of the fifth leg as a process with a single seta. It differs from its two other congeners by several characters including the presence of an inner basipodal spine, the armature details of the third exopodal segment of leg 1, the shape of the cephalosome and pedigerous somites 3 and 4, and the ornamentation of the postero-lateral corners of the genital double-somite. The main synapomorphies include the presence of spinules along the posterior margin of the first leg coxal sclerite and the reduced, spiniform coxal seta on leg 4. The biology and feeding habits of the polychaete containing this specimen suggests that the copepod was ingested as an ectosymbiont from sponges or coral but it is also possible that it was consumed from an ophiurid echinoderm. This finding allows an expansion of the genus geographical distribution in the northwestern Atlantic. A key to the species of Monocheres is also provided.
["Associated copepods"]

A new species and a revised key of the genus Thoradonta (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae)
A new species of the genus Thoradonta (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae), Thoradonta varispina Zha & Sheng, sp. n., was found in Lengshuihe Nature Preserve, Jinsha, Guizhou, China. It is introduced with a description and photographs and compared with similar taxa. Ecology, habits, and morphological variation of the new species are discussed and illustrated. Generic characteristics of Thoradonta are updated and an updated key to all known species of Thoradonta is given.
["Ecology"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

A review of Elocomosta Hansen with a description of a new species with reduced eyes from China (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Sphaeridiinae)
A new species of the genus Elocomosta Hansen, 1989 (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae: Sphaeridiinae: Coelostomatini), E. lilizheni sp. n., is described from Guangxi Province, China. It is compared in detail with the only other known species of the genus, E. nigra Hansen, 1989 from Borneo, and the genus is diagnosed from the remaining coelostomatine genera. The new species is unusual among Hydrophilidae by having extremely reduced eyes.

A new species of the rare genus Priscomilitaris from the Seto Inland Sea, Japan (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Priscomilitaridae)
A new species of the priscomilitarid amphipod, Priscomilitaris heike, from the Seto Inland Sea, Japan, is named and described. This new species is the third species of Priscomilitaridae and the second species of Priscomilitaris. Additionally, nucleotide sequences of nuclear 28S rRNA and histone H3 as well as mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I from its holotype were determined. Priscomilitaris heike sp. n. is distinguished from its congener, P. tenuis Hirayama, 1988, by having deep antennal sinus, long flagellar article 1 of antennae 1 and 2, long mandibular palp article 2, 10 robust setae on outer ramus of maxilla 1, and rounded epimeral plates. A key to the species of Proscomilitaridae is provided.

First Maltese record of Stephanopachys quadricollis (Marseul, 1879) (Coleoptera, Bostrichidae)
Three specimens of Stephanopachys quadricollis (Marseul, 1878) were recently found in Malta in UV light traps and represent the first record of this species for this country. Although S. quadricollis is native to the Mediterranean basin, it is not yet clear if these Maltese records are due to a natural population or to an interception. Distributional, nomenclatural and biological data on this species are summarized, and a new synonymy is established: Stephanopachys quadricollis (Marseul, 1879) = Stephanopachys quadraticollis Kocher, 1956, syn. n.
["Bostrichidae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

New data on distribution, biology, and ecology of longhorn beetles from the area of west Tajikistan (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
New data on distribution, biology, and ecology of some little-known cerambycid species, collected in the western part of Tajikistan, are presented. Arhopalus rusticus (Linnaeus, 1758) is recorded in Tajikistan for the first time. New localities of species considered pests or invasive species such as Aeolesthes sarta (Solsky, 1871) and Xylotrechus stebbingi Gahan, 1906 are also given. The list of the taxa collected by the first author during many years of field research in Tajikistan as well as photographs of poorly known species from his collection, including some endemics, are additionally provided. Furthermore, high quality photographs of some extremely rare species that were collected during our expedition, i.e., Turkaromia gromenkoi Danilevsky, 2000 and Ropalopus nadari Pic, 1894, with images of their habitats or feeding grounds are also presented for the first time.
["Central Asia"]

A new deep-reef scorpionfish (Teleostei, Scorpaenidae, Scorpaenodes) from the southern Caribbean with comments on depth distributions and relationships of western Atlantic members of the genus
A new species of scorpionfish, Scorpaenodes barrybrowni Pitassy & Baldwin, sp. n. which is described, was collected during submersible diving in the southern Caribbean as part of the Smithsonian’s Deep Reef Observation Project (DROP). It differs from the other two western Atlantic species of the genus, S. caribbaeus and S. tredecimspinosus, in various features, including its color pattern, having an incomplete lateral line comprising 8–10 pored scales, tending to be more elongate, usually having the 11th–12th pectoral-fin rays elongate, and by 20–23% divergence in the cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) DNA barcode sequences. It further differs from one or the other of those species in head spination and in numbers of soft dorsal-fin rays, pectoral-fin rays, and precaudal + caudal vertebrae. Inhabiting depths of 95–160 m, the new species is the deepest western Atlantic member of the genus (S. caribbaeus occurs at depths < 35 m and S. tredecimspinosus from 7 to 82 m). DNA barcode data do not rigorously resolve relationships among the ten species of the genus for which those data are available.
["Manned submersible"]

Annotated checklist of the coastal ichthyofauna from Michoacán State, Mexico
This study is the first to complete an intensive and comprehensive list of the ichthyofauna of nearly all ecosystems of the Michoacán coast, Mexico. The resulting systematic checklist, supplemented with information from the literature and scientific collections, comprises 440 species belonging to two classes, 31 orders, 104 families, and 264 genera. The families with the highest number of species were Sciaenidae (30 spp.), Carangidae (26), Haemulidae (24), Serranidae (21), Paralichthyidae, and Gobiidae (13). Of the total species list, 134 represent first records for the Michoacán State, and one is a first record for Mexico. The results expand the number of known fish species of the Michoacán coast by almost one third and will help to develop conservation and management plans for this coastal zone.
["Coastal fish"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A new solitary free-living species of the genus Sphenopus (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Zoantharia, Sphenopidae) from Okinawa-jima Island, Japan
A new species of free-living solitary zoantharian is described from Okinawa, Japan. Sphenopus exilis sp. n. occurs on silty seafloors in Kin Bay and Oura Bay on the east coast of Okinawa-jima Island. Sphenopus exilis sp. n. is easily distinguished from other Sphenopus species by its small polyp size and slender shape, although there were relatively few differences between Sphenopus exilis sp. n. and S. marsupialis in the molecular phylogenetic analyses. Currently, very little is known about the ecology and diversity of Sphenopus species. Thus, reviewing each species carefully via combined morphological and molecular analyses by using newly obtained specimens from type localities is required to clearly understand and distinguish the species within the genus Sphenopus.
["Zoantharia"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Revision of the genus Paralipsis Foerster, 1863 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), with the description of two new species
The Palaearctic genus Paralipsis Foerster, 1863 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Aphidiinae) is revised and two new species are described: P. tibiator van Achterberg & Ortiz de Zugasti, sp. n. from Spain and P. planus van Achterberg, sp. n. from the Netherlands. Some biological notes are supplied for P. tibiator sp. n. A key to the four known species is added and all species are illustrated.
["Paralipsis"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

An inventory of coastal freshwater fishes from Amapá highlighting the occurrence of eight new records for Brazil
The Amazon Basin occupies a vast portion of northern South America and contains some of the highest species richness in the world. The northern Brazilian state of Amapá is delimited by the Amazonas River to the south, the Oyapock River to the northern boundary with French Guyana, and the Atlantic northeastern coast to Amazon estuary. Despite several expeditions to the Amazon in recent decades, little is known about the freshwater ichthyofauna from Amapá, with records limited to local inventories and species descriptions. This paper presents a compilation of the freshwater fish diversity sampled in fifteen sites covering two major Amapá ecoregions during the dry season of 2015. 120 species representing eight orders and 40 families are reported upon in this work. Eight species appear for the first time in the Brazilian territory providing new information for future conservation status evaluations.

A new species of Pristimantis from southern Ecuador (Anura, Craugastoridae)
A new species of Pristimantis is described from Reserva Buenaventura, southern Ecuador, at elevations between 878 and 1082 m. A molecular phylogeny based on nuclear and mitochondrial genes shows that the new species is closely related to P. phoxocephalus, P. riveti, and P. versicolor. The new species differs from them and other morphologically similar congeners in having a low W-shaped dermal ridge in the scapular region, a large conical tubercle on the upper eyelid and on the heel, a thin mid dorsal fold, and a longitudinal lateral fold starting behind the tympanic fold and extending along the anterior two thirds of the flank. The new species inhabits cloud forests in the Pacific slopes of the Andes.

Epiphytic bryozoans on Neptune grass – a sample-based data set
Background The seagrass Posidonia oceanica L. Delile, commonly known as Neptune grass, is an endemic species of the Mediterranean Sea. It hosts a distinctive and diverse epiphytic community, dominated by various macroalgal and animal organisms. Mediterranean bryozoans have been extensively studied but quantitative data assessing temporal and spatial variability have rarely been documented. In Lepoint et al. (2014a, b) occurrence and abundance data of epiphytic bryozoan communities on leaves of P. oceanica inhabiting Revellata Bay (Corsica, Mediterranean Sea) were reported and trophic ecology of Electra posidoniae Gautier assessed. New information Here, metadata information is provided on the data set discussed in Lepoint et al. (2014a) and published on the GBIF portal as a sampling-event data set: http://ipt.biodiversity.be/resource?r=ulg_bryozoa&v=1.0). The data set is enriched by data concerning species settled on Posidonia scales (dead petiole of Posidonia leaves, remaining after limb abscission).
["Epiphytism"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

Mulloidichthys flavolineatus flavicaudus Fernandez-Silva & Randall (Perciformes, Mullidae), a new subspecies of goatfish from the Red Sea and Arabian Sea
The number of goatfish species has increased recently, thanks in part to the application of molecular approaches to the taxonomy of a family with conservative morphology and widespread intraspecific color variation. A new subspecies Mulloidichthys flavolineatus flavicaudus Fernandez-Silva & Randall is described from the Red Sea and Arabian Sea, including Socotra and Gulf of Oman. It is characterized by a yellow caudal fin, 25–28 gill rakers, and 37–38 lateral-line scales and it is differentiated from nominal subspecies M. flavolineatus flavolineatus by 1.7% sequence divergence at the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. The morphometric examination of specimens of M. f. flavolineatus revealed variation in head length, eye diameter, and barbel length, in western direction from the Hawaiian Islands, South Pacific, Micronesia, and the East Indies to the Indian Ocean. The population of Mulloidichthys f. flavicaudus subsp. n. in the Gulf of Aqaba differs from that of the remaining Red Sea by shorter barbels, smaller eyes, shorter head, and shorter pelvic fins. We present a list of 26 endemic fishes from the Gulf of Aqaba and discuss the probable basis for the endemism in the light of the geological history of this region.
["cytb"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

The first geophilid centipedes from Malesia: a new genus with two new species from Sumatra (Chilopoda, Geophilidae)
A new genus Sundageophilus is here described for two new species of geophilid centipedes (Chilopoda: Geophilidae) from Sumatra, Indonesia. Both S. bidentatus sp. n. and S. poriger sp. n. feature a minute body size (less than 1 cm long with 31–35 pairs of legs), a similar structure of the maxillae, elongated forcipules, and few coxal organs. Sundageophilus bidentatus is unique among geophilids because the ultimate article of the forcipule is armed with two conspicuous denticles, one dorsal to the other, instead of a single one or none. The two species of Sundageophilus are the first genuine Geophilidae ever found in Malesia, and among the very few representatives of this family in the entire south-eastern Asia.

A new species of Nebalia (Crustacea, Leptostraca) from coral reefs at Pulau Payar, Malaysia
A new species of Leptostraca, Nebalia terazakii sp. n. is described and figured. The species was sampled from the coral reefs of Pulau Payar Marine Park, Langkawi, Malaysia. There are 32 existing species of Nebalia but Nebalia terazakii sp. n. can be distinguished from the other known species of Nebalia by the following combination of characters: the rostrum is 1.89 times as long as wide and the eyes have no dorsal papilla or lobes. Article 4 of the antennular peduncle has one short thick distal spine. The proximal article of the endopod of maxilla 2 is shorter than the distal, a feature peculiar to Nebalia terazakii sp. n., the exopod of maxilla 2 is longer than article 1 of the endopod, the posterior dorsal borders of the pleonites 6 to 7 are provided with distally sharp denticles, anal plate with prominent lateral shoulder and finally, the terminal seta of the caudal rami is 1.17 times the length of the entire rami.
["Nebalia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Phylogenetic relationships within the Phyllidiidae (Opisthobranchia, Nudibranchia)
The Phyllidiidae (Gastropoda, Heterobranchia, Nudibranchia) is a family of colourful nudibranchs found on Indo-Pacific coral reefs. Despite the abundant and widespread occurrence of many species, their phylogenetic relationships are not well known. The present study is the first contribution to fill the gap in our knowledge on their phylogeny by combining morphological and molecular data. For that purpose 99 specimens belonging to 16 species were collected at two localities in Indonesia. They were photographed and used to make a phylogeny reconstruction based on newly obtained cytochrome oxidase subunit (COI) sequences as well as sequence data from GenBank. All mitochondrial 16S sequence data available from GenBank were used in a separate phylogeny reconstruction to obtain information for species we did not collect. COI data allowed the distinction of the genera and species, whereas the 16S data gave a mixed result with respect to the genera Phyllidia and Phyllidiella. Specimens which could be ascribed to species level based on their external morphology and colour patterns showed low variation in COI sequences, but there were two exceptions: three specimens identified as Phyllidia cf. babai represent two to three different species, while Phyllidiella pustulosa showed highly supported subclades. The barcoding marker COI also confirms that the species boundaries in morphologically highly variable species such as Phyllidia elegans, P. varicosa, and Phyllidiopsis krempfi, are correct as presently understood. In the COI as well as the 16S cladogram Phyllidiopsis cardinalis was located separately from all other Phyllidiidae, whereas Phyllidiopsis fissuratus was positioned alone from the Phyllidiella species by COI data only. Future studies on phyllidiid systematics should continue to combine morphological information with DNA sequences to obtain a clearer insight in their phylogeny.
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Socially-parasitic Myrmica species (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) of Himalaya, with the description of a new species
A new socially-parasitic species, Myrmica latra sp. n. is described based on a queen and male from Indian Himalaya. Its queen differs from other species by the distinctly narrower petiole and postpetiole, blunt and non-divergent propodeal spines, and a darker body colour. The taxonomic position of the three known Himalayan socially-parasitic Myrmica species is discussed, and M. ereptrix Bolton 1988 is transferred to the smythiesii species-group. It is supposed that M. nefaria Bharti 2012 is a temporary social parasite, but M. ereptrix and M. latra sp. n. are permanent social parasites, and a key for their identification is provided.

Paracerella Imadaté in China: the description of a new species and the analysis of genetic differences between populations (Protura, Acerentomata, Nipponentomidae)
The genus Paracerella Imadaté, 1980 is recorded from China for the first time, with the description of a new species, Paracerella sinensis sp. n. Paracerella sinensis is characterized by four pairs of A-setae on tergite I, the presence of setae Pc and P3a on tergite VII, eight A-setae on tergite VIII, the presence of seta Pc on both sternites VI and VII, and 4/2 setae on sternite VIII, which are different from all other members of the genus. The key to the four species of the genus is updated. In addition, DNA barcodes of four populations are sequenced and their genetic differences are analyzed.

New species of Medetera from Inner Mongolia, China (Diptera, Dolichopodidae, Medeterinae)
Only three species of Medetera Fischer von Waldheim were known from Inner Mongolia. Here the following ten new species of Medetera, of which three species belong to M. apicalis group and seven belong to M. diadema-veles group, are added to the fauna of Inner Mongolia: M. albens sp. n., M. bisetifera sp. n., M. flava sp. n., M. ganshuiensis sp. n., M. lihuae sp. n., and M. transformata sp. n., M. triseta sp. n., M. shiae sp. n., M. shuimogouensis sp. n., and M. xiquegouensis sp. n. A key to the species of Medetera from Palaearctic China is provided.

The morphology of the immature stages of two rare Lixus species (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Lixinae) and notes on their biology
The mature larvae and pupae of Lixus (Ortholixus) bituberculatus Smreczyński, 1968 and L. (Dilixellus) neglectus Fremuth, 1983 (Curculionidae: Lixinae: Lixini) are described and compared with known larvae of 21 other Lixus and 2 Hypolixus taxa. The mature larva and pupa of L. bituberculatus are the first immature stages described representing the subgenus Ortholixus. The larva of L. neglectus, in the subgenus Dilixellus, is distinguished from the known larvae of four species in this subgenus by having more pigmented sclerites on the larval body. All descriptions of mature larvae from the tribe Lixini, as do all known species from the tribe Cleonini, fit the diagnosis of the mature larva of the Lixinae subfamily. Furthermore, new biological information of these species in the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Romania is provided. For L. bituberculatus, a chicory, Cichorium intybus L. (Asteraceae), is identified as a host plant, and L. neglectus is found on dock Rumex thyrsiflorus Fingerh. (Polygonaceae). Both species are probably monophagous or oligophagous. Adults of L. bituberculatus often inhabit host plants growing in active, dry and sunny pastures with sparse patches without vegetation, being mostly active during the night in April/May and then again in September, when the highest activity levels are observed. Adults of L. neglectus inhabit dry grasslands on sandy soils with host plants, being active during the day from May to September, with the highest level of activity in May/June and September. The larvae of both species are borers in the stem and root of the host plant, and they pupate in root or root neck. Adults leave the pupation cells at the end of summer and do not hibernate in the host plants. Finally, Romania is a new geographic record for L. bituberculatus.
["Weevil"]

Description of a new species of Metabemisia Takahashi, 1963 from China (Hemiptera, Aleyrodidae)
A new whitefly species, Metabemisia leguminosa sp. n., collected from an undetermined leguminous herb is described from Wuzhishan Mountain, Hainan Island, China. The puparium of the new species differs from that of all other Metabemisia species by the presence of 4–5 rows of very small distinct papillae along the margin, the absence of the first abdominal seta, and the indistinct thoracic tracheal pores. An identification key to the worldwide species of Metabemisia is provided.
["Aleyrodidae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

Atlanta ariejansseni, a new species of shelled heteropod from the Southern Subtropical Convergence Zone (Gastropoda, Pterotracheoidea)
The Atlantidae (shelled heteropods) is a family of microscopic aragonite shelled holoplanktonic gastropods with a wide biogeographical distribution in tropical, sub-tropical and temperate waters. The aragonite shell and surface ocean habitat of the atlantids makes them particularly susceptible to ocean acidification and ocean warming, and atlantids are likely to be useful indicators of these changes. However, we still lack fundamental information on their taxonomy and biogeography, which is essential for monitoring the effects of a changing ocean. Integrated morphological and molecular approaches to taxonomy have been employed to improve the assessment of species boundaries, which give a more accurate picture of species distributions. Here a new species of atlantid heteropod is described based on shell morphology, DNA barcoding of the Cytochrome Oxidase I gene, and biogeography. All specimens of Atlanta ariejansseni sp. n. were collected from the Southern Subtropical Convergence Zone of the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans suggesting that this species has a very narrow latitudinal distribution (37–48°S). Atlanta ariejansseni sp. n. was found to be relatively abundant (up to 2.3 specimens per 1000 m3 water) within this narrow latitudinal range, implying that this species has adapted to the specific conditions of the Southern Subtropical Convergence Zone and has a high tolerance to the varying ocean parameters in this region.
["Atlantidae"]
["Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

New blind species and new records of Sinella from Nanjing, China (Collembola, Entomobryidae)
Two new blind species of Sinella are described from Nanjing, China. Sinella quinseta sp. n. from Purple Mountain possesses unique 5+5 central macrochaetae on Abd. II, and can be distinguished from other species of the genus by the postlabial chaetae and the dorsal chaetotaxy. Sinella qixiaensis sp. n. from Qixia Mountain is characterized by the paddle-like S-chaetae of Ant. III organ and the smooth straight chaetae on the manubrium and base of dens; it differs from two closely related species by the smooth manubrial chaetae, the labial chaetae, the Ant. III organ, and the macrochaetae on Abd. II. Sinella fuyanensis Chen & Christiansen and Sinella quinocula Chen & Christiansen were also newly recorded from Nanjing.
["Springtail"]

A revision of the genus Pseudoechthistatus Pic (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Lamiini)
The genus Pseudoechthistatus Pic, 1917 is redefined and revised. Five species of the genus are described as new, P. sinicus sp. n. and P. chiangshunani sp. n. from central Yunnan, China, P. pufujiae sp. n. from western Yunnan, China, and P. holzschuhi sp. n. and P. glabripennis sp. n. from southern Yunnan and northern Vietnam. Pseudoechthistatus birmanicus Breuning, 1942 is excluded from the fauna of China. Three poorly known species, P. obliquefasciatus Pic, 1917, P. granulatus Breuning, 1942, and P. acutipennis Chiang, 1981 are redescribed, and the type localities of the former two species are discussed. Endophallic structure of seven species in inflated and everted condition are studied and compared with their relatives. Illustrations of habitus and major diagnostic features of all species are provided. Some biological notes are reported. An identification key as well as a distributional map are presented.

Psallops niedzwiedzkii, a new species from Ghana with a key to African species (Heteroptera, Miridae, Psallopinae)
A new species from Ghana, Psallops niedzwiedzkii Herczek & Popov, sp. n. is described. The dorsal habitus, head and male genitalia are presented and some morphological features are discussed. A key, short descriptions and map of the distribution of the African species of the genus are also provided.

Fangumellus flavobadius: a new genus and species of plant bug from Laos (Heteroptera, Miridae, Mirinae, Mirini)
A new species of the plant bug tribe Mirini representing a new genus, Fangumellus flavobadius, is described from Laos. This genus is characterized primarily by the medium-sized, ovoid, tumid body, less shiny, roughened, almost impunctate dorsal surface, short antenna and labium, short pygophore, and atypical shape of parameres and endosoma. The phylogenetic relationship to other known mirine genera is also discussed.
["Miridae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Conflict of mitochondrial phylogeny and morphology-based classification in a pair of freshwater gastropods (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea, Tateidae) from New Caledonia
Morphological classification and mitochondrial phylogeny of a pair of morphologically defined species of New Caledonian freshwater gastropods, Hemistomia cockerelli and H. fabrorum, were incongruent. We asked whether these two nominal species can be unambiguously distinguished based on shell morphology or whether the taxonomic discrepancy inferred from these character types was reflected in the variation of shell morphology. Our investigations were based on phylogenetic analyses of a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, geometric morphometric analyses as well as micro computer tomography. The species presorted to morphospecies by eye overlapped in shell shape. However, statistically, all shells were correctly assigned, but not all of them significantly. Qualitatively, both nominal species can be unambiguously distinguished by the presence/absence of a prominent denticle within the shell. In the phylogenetic analyses, individuals from three populations clustered with the “wrong” morphospecies. In the absence of data from multiple loci, it was assumed for the single specimen from one of these populations that its misplacement was due to a recent hybridization event, based on its very shallow position in the tree. For the other two cases of misplacement neither introgression nor incomplete lineage sorting could be ruled out. Further investigations have to show whether the morphological overlap has a genetic basis or is due to phenotypic plasticity. In conclusion, despite their partly unresolved relationships H. cockerelli and H. fabrorum may be considered sister species, which are reliably diagnosable by the presence or absence of the denticle, but have not yet fully differentiated in all character complexes investigated.
["Geometric morphometrics"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Two new species of Pachylaelaps Berlese, 1888 from the Iberian Peninsula, with a key to European species (Acari, Gamasida, Pachylaelapidae)
Pachylaelaps (Pachylaelaps) pyrenaicussp. n. and Pachylaelaps (Longipachylaelaps) brevipilissp. n. (Acari, Pachylaelapidae) are described and illustrated based on specimens from litter and soil detritus of forest habitats in Spain (Pyrenees Mts) and Portugal (Serra da Labruja Mts), respectively. An identification key to European species of the genus Pachylaelaps Berlese, 1888 is provided.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

New Brazilian Cerambycidae from the Amazonian region (Coleoptera)
Three new species of Cerambycidae are described from the Brazilian Amazonian region: Psapharochrus bezarki (Lamiinae, Acanthoderini); Xenofrea ayri (Lamiinae, Xenofreini); and Mecometopus wappesi (Cerambycinae, Clytini). Mecometopus wappesi is added to a previous key.
["Neotropical region"]

Taxonomic revision of the Malagasy Nesomyrmex madecassus species-group using a quantitative morphometric approach
Here we reveal the diversity of the next fragment of the Malagasy elements of the ant genus Nesomyrmex using a combination of advanced exploratory analyses on quantitative morphological data. The diversity of the Nesomyrmex madecassus species-group was assessed via hypothesis-free nest centroid clustering combined with recursive partitioning to estimate the number of clusters and determine the most probable boundaries between them. This combination of methods provides a highly automated species delineation protocol based on continuous morphometric data, and thereby it obviates the need of subjective interpretation of morphological patterns. Delimitations of clusters recognized by these exploratory analyses were tested via confirmatory Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). Our results suggest the existence of four morphologically distinct species, Nesomyrmex flavus sp. n., N. gibber, N. madecassus and N. nitidus sp. n.; all are described here and an identification key for their worker castes using morphometric data is given. Two members of the newly outlined madecasus species-group, N. flavus sp. n. and N. nitidus sp. n., represent true cryptic species. Geographic maps depicting species distributions and elevational information for the sites where populations of particular species were collected are also provided.

Taxonomic evaluation of eleven species of Microcyclops Claus, 1893 (Copepoda, Cyclopoida) and description of Microcyclops inarmatus sp. n. from America
Description and meristic analysis of eleven species of Microcyclops recorded in America were performed based on the examination of type specimens and fresh material. Microscopic analysis of oral appendages, such as the shape and armature of the distal coxal endite of the maxilla, the ornamentation on the caudal surface of the antenna, and the intercoxal sclerites and armament of the inner basis of all swimming appendages, were characteristics that allowed the differentiation between species. Among these species, our study confirmed the synonymy of M. diversus Kiefer, 1935 with M. ceibaensis (Marsh, 1919). The results of our observations showed that M. alius (Kiefer, 1935) is a junior synonym of M. dubitabilis Kiefer, 1934; the latter being confirmed as a valid species. Also, it is proposed that the records of M. rubellus (Lilljeborg, 1901) and M. varicans (Sars, 1863) in America should be revised as there are serious doubts about their distribution in America. The analysis suggested that M. anceps pauxensis Herbst, 1962 is distinct from M. anceps var. minor Dussart, 1984 and that both are likely different from M. anceps anceps (Richard, 1897). Finally a full morphological description of adult females of Microcyclops inarmatus sp. n. is presented.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Morphology and development rate of the immature stages of Glyphidops (Oncopsia) flavifrons (Bigot, 1886) (Diptera, Neriidae) under natural conditions
Of the 116 Neriidae species known to date, 113 species have not been studied in their immature stages. Here, we examine the development of the immature stages of Glyphidops (Oncopsia) flavifrons (Bigot, 1886), which has one of the broadest distributions of Neriidae in southern North America, Central America, and South America; offering excellent opportunities for biological studies. A population of this species was monitored over a five month period. The following characteristics were tracked for a population located on the University of Valle campus in Cali, Colombia: oviposition duration, number of eggs per egg mass and lifespan of each immature stage (egg, larva, and puparium) under natural conditions (in situ). The external morphology of the egg, larva, and puparium were described; their stages lasted 58 (± 4) hours, 10 (± 1) days and 13 (± 1) days, respectively. The lapse of time for each larval instar was statistically supported by using Tukey comparisons and cluster analysis of hypopharyngeal sclerite length and mandibular area. In addition, it was also sustained throughout the morphological study of structural changes in mouth hook, and anterior and posterior spiracles. Finally, the presence of the labial and epipharyngeal sclerites are reported as new characters of Nerioidea. Natural history data are provided.
["Cactus flies"]

A new Maldane species and a new Maldaninae genus and species (Maldanidae, Annelida) from coastal waters of China
Paramaldane, new genus, with type species Paramaldane glandicincta sp. n., and Maldane adunca sp. n. (Maldanidae, Polychaeta) are described based on material from the coast of south China. The new genus Paramaldane is similar to Maldane Grube, 1860 and Sabaco Kinberg, 1867, but it clearly differs from all genera within the subfamily Maldaninae by a unique combination of characters: the cephalic plate is almost circular with low, entire and smooth cephalic rim, nuchal grooves small and crescentic, lacking a collar on chaetiger 1, short companion notochaetae, a collar-like glandular band on the anterior part of the sixth chaetiger, and a well-developed anal valve. Paramaldane glandicincta sp. n. is characterised by having a glandular band on the anterior part of the sixth chaetiger, an almost circular cephalic plate, an entire and smooth cephalic rim, and small crescentic nuchal grooves. Maldane adunca sp. n. is characterised by a low cephalic rim, nuchal grooves with a strongly curved anterior part and isolated from the cephalic rim. Finally, a taxonomic key to genera of Maldaninae and a comparative table to species of Maldane are provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Cheiracanthium ilicis sp. n. (Araneae, Eutichuridae), a novel spider species associated with Holm Oaks (Quercus ilex)
We describe a novel species Cheiracanthium ilicis sp. n. (Araneae, Eutichuridae) collected in the province of Toledo (Central Spain). It was found during a systematic sampling campaign carried out in an agricultural landscape with isolated Holm oaks Quercus ilex and small forest patches. Its morphology and affinities with other species of the genus are discussed. Furthermore, one mitochondrial gene was sequenced to confirm species membership and its differentiation from other Cheiracanthium species. The molecular phylogenies based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes showed a close relationship of C. ilicis sp. n. with C. inclusum and C. mildei, with which it also shares morphological similarities. Nonetheless, the sparse sampling of the phylogeny, due to the low number of sequences available, impedes drawing any definitive conclusion about these relationships; it is first necessary to perform an extensive review of the genus worldwide and more thorough phylogenies. C. ilicis sp. n. also shares certain ecological and phenological characteristics with C. inclusum and C. mildei. Like them, C. ilicis sp. n. is an obligate tree dweller that prefers a tree canopy habitat and reproduces primarily in late spring and summer. From a conservation perspective, the present study suggests the need to preserve isolated trees in agricultural landscapes. They are not only the refuge of common forest organisms but also of novel species yet to be discovered.
["Cheiracanthium ilicis sp. n."]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

The first record of the millipede genus Streptogonopus Attems, 1914 from Vietnam, with description of a new species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
This paper describes a new species of the millipede genus Streptogonopus Attems, 1914, S. montanus sp. n. from Vietnam, the first record of Streptogonopus in Vietnam. The new species is characterised by the solenophore completely sheathing the solenomere, both coiled twice, and the solenophore with a small spine at its middle. The species was found at ca. 1,800–2,100 m on Ngoc Linh Mountain. This first record for the genus in the Indochina peninsula has expanded its distributional range to the easternmost part of Southeast Asian mainland. An identification key to Streptogonopus species is also provided.

First description of the male of Draconarius jiangyongensis (Peng et al., 1996) (Araneae, Agelenidae)
The male of Draconarius jiangyongensis (Peng, Gong & Kim, 1996) is described for the first time from Xinning County, Hunan Province, China. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of both sexes of this species are given in this study. The placement of this species in Draconarius is doubted.

Kankuamo, a new theraphosid genus from Colombia (Araneae, Mygalomorphae), with a new type of urticating setae and divergent male genitalia
A new monotypic Theraphosidae genus, Kankuamo Perafán, Galvis & Pérez-Miles, gen. n., is described from Colombia, with a new type of urticating setae. These setae differ from others principally by having a small distal oval patch of lanceolate reversed barbs. Males of Kankuamo gen. n. additionally differ by having a palpal bulb organ very divergent from all known species, with many conspicuous keels dispersed across the median tegulum to the tip, mostly with serrated edges. Females differ by having spermathecae with a single notched receptacle, with two granulated lobes and several irregular sclerotized longitudinal striations. The new urticating setae, type VII, is characterized, illustrated and its releasing mechanism is discussed. It is hypothesized that these setae are the first in Theraphosinae subfamily whose release mechanism is by direct contact. Kankuamo gen. n. is described and illustrated on the basis of the type species Kankuamo marquezi Perafán, Galvis & Gutiérrez, sp. n., and their remarkable characteristics, morphological affinities and cladistic relationship are analyzed.

A further study of the spider genus Notiocoelotes (Araneae, Agelenidae) from Hainan Island, China
Two new Notiocoelotes species, N. maoganensis sp. n. (♂♀) and N. qiongzhongensis sp. n. (♂♀) are described from Hainan Island, China. In addition, the female of N. membranaceus Liu & Li, 2010 is described for the first time. DNA barcodes of three species treated in this paper were obtained for future use.

Nine new species of the spider genus Pireneitega Kishida, 1955 (Agelenidae, Coelotinae) from Xinjiang, China
Nine new Pireneitega species collected from Xinjiang, China are described as new to science: P. burqinensis sp. n. (♂♀), P. fuyunensis sp. n. (♂♀), P. gongliuensis sp. n. (♂♀), P. huochengensis sp. n. (♂♀), P. lini sp. n. (♀), P. liui sp. n. (♂♀), P. wensuensis sp. n. (♂), P. wui sp. n. (♂) and P. yaoi sp. n. (♀). DNA barcodes were obtained for all these species for future use.

A review of the Japanese species of the family Tischeriidae (Lepidoptera)
This paper provides taxonomic and biological data on one new and one newly recorded species of Coptotriche Walsingham and one new and one newly recorded species of Tischeria Zeller from Japan. Coptotriche symplocosella Kobayashi & Hirowatari, sp. n. (host Symplocos lucida, Symplocaceae), and Tischeria kumatai Sato, Kobayashi & Hirowatari, sp. n. (host Tilia japonica, Malvaceae) are described. The pupal morphology of C. symplocosella is illustrated with scanning electron micrographs. Coptotriche minuta Diškus & Stonis, 2014 and Tischeria relictana Ermolaev, 1986 are newly recorded from Japan. The female, hostplants (Carpinus, Corylus, and Ostrya species), and immature stages of C. minuta and the adult features, female, and hostplants (Betula species) of T. relictana are described with photographs and drawings for the first time. Mine types and characters of Japanese Tischeriidae are reviewed with photographs.
["Betula"]

Three new species of western California springsnails previously confused with Pyrgulopsis stearnsiana (Caenogastropoda, Hydrobiidae)
We describe three new, allopatric species of springsnails (genus Pyrgulopsis) from western California (P. lindae, P. ojaiensis, P. torrida) that were previously identified as P. stearnsiana. The new species are differentiated from P. stearnsiana and each other both by mtCOI sequences (3.9-9.9%) and details of penial morphology. We also provide a phylogeny with increased sampling which confirms a previous finding that P. stearnsianasensu stricto is paraphyletic relative to two other California species (P. diablensis, P. giulianii). Our molecular and morphological evidence suggests that P. stearnsiana paraphyly is an artifact of conservative taxonomy, however additional studies utilizing rapidly evolving genetic markers will be needed to confidently tease apart the cryptic diversity in this widely ranging springsnail. The new species described herein are narrowly distributed and vulnerable to anthropogenic stressors. The single known population of P. torrida may have become extirpated between 2000 and 2015.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

Species delimitation in the Grayling genus Pseudochazara (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae) supported by DNA barcodes
The Palaearctic Grayling genus Pseudochazara encompasses a number of petrophilous butterfly species, most of which are local endemics especially in their centre of radiation in SW Asia and the Balkans. Due to a lack of consistent morphological characters, coupled with habitat induced variability, their taxonomy is poorly understood and species delimitation is hampered. We employed a DNA barcoding approach to address the question of separate species status for several European taxa and provide first insight into the phylogeny of the genus. Unexpectedly we found conflicting patterns with deep divergences between presumably conspecific taxa and lack of divergence among well-defined species. We propose separate species status for P. tisiphone, P. amalthea, P. amymone, and P. kermana all of which have separate well supported clades, with the majority of them becoming local endemics. Lack of resolution in the ‘Mamurra’ species group with well-defined species (in terms of wing pattern and coloration) such as P. geyeri, P. daghestana and P. alpina should be further explored using nuclear molecular markers with higher genetic resolution.
["Papilionoidea"]

Evemphyron sinense, a new genus and species infesting legume seedpods in China (Coleoptera, Attelabidae, Rhynchitinae)
A new genus Evemphyron Alonso-Zarazaga, Lv & Wang, gen. n., belonging to AttelabidaeRhynchitinae, is described. Its single species, Evemphyron sinense Alonso-Zarazaga, Lv & Wang, sp. n., was reared from larvae found inside seed pods of the legume Callerya dielsiana (Fabaceae, Millettieae) in Sichuan Province (China). The species is figured and placed in the Deporaini because of the presence of minute labial palpi, the strongly crescentic apex of the postmentum, and the apodemes of male IX sternite and female VIII sternite curved sinistro-anterially near their cephalic end. It shows 3-segmented labial palpi and male sex patches on the procoxae, characters that suggest a basal position in the tribe.
["Attelabidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Three new spider species of the genus Pholcus from the Taihang Mountains of China (Araneae, Pholcidae)
In this study, three new species belonging to the genus Pholcus, collected from a forest of the Taihang Mountains, P. R. China, are described under the names of Pholcus papillatus sp. n. (male, female), P. curvus sp. n. (male, female) and P. auricularis sp. n. (male, female).
["Hebei Province"]

Description of a new troglomorphic species of Charinus Simon, 1892 from Brazil (Arachnida, Amblypygi, Charinidae)
Charinus taboa sp. n. comprises the twenty-second species of the genus described for Brazil. The new species belongs to the eastern Brazilian group, in which all species have sucker-like gonopods. Charinus taboa sp. n. has a marked sexual dimorphism in the pedipalps as do other members of the genus in the country. The description of Charinus taboa sp. n. offers an opportunity to discuss some aspects of ecology, troglomorphism and conservation within the genus. A key to the eastern Brazilian species of Charinus is provided.

New species and records of Uropodina mites from Iran (Acari, Mesostigmata)
In this paper, a new species of the genus Nenteria Oudemans, 1915 is described on the basis of adult female and male specimens collected in soil and litter in parks in Kerman, southeastern Iran, and Tehran, northern Iran. A key to the Iranian species of Nenteria is also presented, and Trachycilliba abantica (Bal & Őzkan, 2007) is reported for the first time in Iran.
["Trematuridae"]

Taxonomic revision of the rock-dwelling door snail genus Montenegrina Boettger, 1877 (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Clausiliidae)
The genus Montenegrina is revised on the basis of material available at the Hungarian Natural History Museum (Budapest), Naturhistorisches Museum Wien (Vienna), and the Naturmuseum Senckenberg (Frankfurt am Main), as well as newly discovered populations. The following new taxa are described: M. haringae sp. n., M. lillae sp. n., M. prokletiana sp. n., M. sturanyana sp. n., M. grammica erosszoltani ssp. n., M. grammica improvisa ssp. n., M. hiltrudae desaretica ssp. n., M. hiltrudae selcensis ssp. n., M. laxa delii ssp. n., M. nana barinai ssp. n., M. prokletiana kovacsorum ssp. n., M. rugilabris golikutensis ssp. n., M. rugilabris gregoi ssp. n., M. skipetarica danyii ssp. n., M. skipetarica gurelurensis ssp. n., M. skipetarica pifkoi ssp. n., M. skipetarica puskasi ssp. n., M. sporadica tropojana ssp. n., M. sturanyana gropana ssp. n., M. sturanyana ostrovicensis ssp. n., and M. tomorosi hunyadii ssp. n. A neotype is designated for M. helvola (Küster, 1860), and M. cattaroensis antivaricostata nom. n. was introduced to replace the junior homonym Clausilia umbilicata costata Boettger, 1907 (non Pfeiffer, 1928). Of each taxon types or specimens from the type localities are figured, and distribution maps are provided.
["Balkan"]

Morphological features of larvae of Drusus plicatus Radovanović (Insecta, Trichoptera) from the Republic of Macedonia with molecular, ecological, ethological, and distributional notes
A description of the larva of Drusus plicatus Radovanović is given for the first time. The most important diagnostic characters enabling separation from larvae of the other Drusinae from the southeast Europe are listed. Molecular, ecological, and ethological features and distribution patterns of the species are given. Additionally, information on the sympatric caddisfly species of the three springs where larvae and adults of D. plicatus were found and presented.
["Caddisfly"]

New species of Goniocolletes and Trichocolletes (Hymenoptera, Colletidae) from southern Australia
Goniocolletes comatus Maynard, 2013 is redescribed. G. wanni sp. n. and the male of Trichocolletes luteorufus Batley & Houston, 2012 are described.
["Colletid bees"]

The genus Paraplonobia Wainstein and Neopetrobia Wainstein (Acari, Trombidiformes, Tetranychidae) from Saudi Arabia: new species, new records and key to the world species of Paraplonobia
The two tetranychid genera Paraplonobia Wainstein and Neopetrobia Wainstein (Trombidiformes: Tetranychidae) are reported for the first time from Saudi Arabia. Three new species Paraplonobia (Anaplonobia) arabica Mirza & Alatawi, sp. n., P. (A.) haloxylonia Alatawi & Mirza, sp. n. and P. (A.) tabukensis Kamran & Alatawi, sp. n. are described and illustrated based on adult females, collected from Prosopis juliflora (SW.) Dc. (Fabaceae) and Haloxylon salicornicum Bunge (Amaranthaceae) from two different regions of Saudi Arabia. Neopetrobia mcgregori (Pritchard and Baker) is redescribed and illustrated based on female collected from Cynodon dactylon L. (Poaceae).The diagnostic morphological features including leg chaetotaxy of all known species of the subgenus Anaplonobia is tabulated. A key to the world species of the genus Paraplonobia is also provided.
["Hystrichonychini"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Study of Mite Species", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Description of a new catfish genus (Siluriformes, Loricariidae) from the Tocantins River basin in central Brazil, with comments on the historical zoogeography of the new taxon
This study presents the description of a new genus of the catfish subfamily Neoplecostominae from the Tocantins River basin. It can be distinguished from other neoplecostomine genera by the presence of (1) three hypertrophied bicuspid odontodes on the lateral portion of the body (character apparently present in mature males); (2) a large area without odontodes around the snout; (3) a post-dorsal ridge on the caudal peduncle; (4) a straight tooth series in the dentary and premaxillary rows; (5) the absence of abdominal plates; (6) a conspicuous series of enlarged papillae just posterior to the dentary teeth; and (7) caudal peduncle ellipsoid in cross section. We used maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods to estimate a time-calibrated tree with the published data on 116 loricariid species using one nuclear and three mitochondrial genes, and we used parametric biogeographic analyses (DEC and DECj models) to estimate ancestral geographic ranges and to infer the colonization routes of the new genus and the other neoplecostomines in the Tocantins River and the hydrographic systems of southeastern Brazil. Our phylogenetic results indicate that the new genus and species is a sister taxon of all the other members of the Neoplecostominae, originating during the Eocene at 47.5 Mya (32.7–64.5 Mya 95% HPD). The present distribution of the new genus and other neoplecostomines may be the result of a historical connection between the drainage basins of the Paraguay and Paraná rivers and the Amazon basin, mainly through headwater captures.

Redescription of Gammarus pseudosyriacus (Karaman & Pinkster, 1977) and description of a new subspecies from southern Iran (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridae)
The present study focused on redescription of Gammarus pseudosyriacus (Karaman & Pinkster, 1977) based on new materials from Zagros Mountains and describes a new subspecies of freshwater amphipod, Gammarus pseudosyriacus issatisi subsp. n., from the southern Zagros Mountains. The work is based on morphological and morphometric comparisons. This new subspecies has features similar to Gammarus pseudosyriacus. The distinct features that distinguish Gammarus pseudosyriacus issatisi subsp. n. from Gammarus pseudosyriacus are the smaller eyes, shorter body length, and shorter flagellum of antenna 1 and 2.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Review of the Fannia postica-group Chillcott, 1961 of the genus Fannia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, with description of two new species from the Palearctic and Oriental regions (Diptera, Fanniidae)
A total of 17 species of the Fannia postica-group Chillcott, 1961 from the Palearctic and Oriental regions are reviewed herein, 2 of which are described from China as new: Fannia ningxiaensis Wang & Zhang, sp. n. and Fannia subaethiops Wang & Zhu, sp. n.. Fannia labidocerca Feng & Xue, 2006, originally placed in F. serena-group Chillcott, 1961, is moved to the postica-group and re-described. An identification key to the males of known species from these regions is provided.
["Species transference"]

Natural history of Javeta pallida Baly, 1858 on Phoenix palms in India (Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae, Coelaenomenoderini)
Members of the Old World hispine tribe, Coelaenomenoderini, are documented on host plants of Arecaceae, Cyperaceae, and Zingiberales. A few species are renowned pests of oil palm, especially in Africa. The host plants and natural history of Javeta pallida Baly, 1858, the only Indian species of the tribe, is reported for the first time. These beetles can densely infest indigenous wild date palms, Phoenix sylvestris (L.) Roxb. (Arecaceae), and also use the introduced date palm, Phoenix dactylifera L., which is an expanding crop in India. Javeta females lay single eggs and cover each with an ootheca. All larval stages mine the leaves and pupation occurs within the larval mine. Adults are exophagous, leaving linear feeding trenches. Natural and induced infestations of J. pallida on these two palms were observed and the potential of J. pallida as a pest of date palm in India is discussed. Javeta pallida completed development on Phoenix palms in 52–88 days (mean 66.38 days) with egg period 11–15 days (mean 12.8 days), larval period 21–54 days (mean 33.02 days) and pupal period 17–23 days (mean 20.52 days). Elasmus longiventris Verma and Hayat and Pediobius imbreus Walker (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) parasitize the larva and pupa of J. pallida.
["Leaf beetles"]
["Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Revision of the legume-feeding leaf beetle genus Madurasia Jacoby, including a new species description (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Galerucini)
Madurasia Jacoby is revised and M. andamanica sp. n., endemic to the Andaman Islands in the Indian Ocean, is described and illustrated. Madurasia obscurella Jacoby, syn. n., is a new junior synonym of Madurasia undulatovittata (Motschulsky), comb. n. A lectotype is designated for M. obscurella. Literature on the biology and management of M. undulatovittata is reviewed.

Varicus lacerta, a new species of goby (Teleostei, Gobiidae, Gobiosomatini, Nes subgroup) from a mesophotic reef in the southern Caribbean
We describe a new species of goby, Varicus lacerta sp. n., which was collected from a mesophotic reef at Curacao, southern Caribbean. The new species is the tenth species of Varicus, all of which occur below traditional SCUBA depths in the wider Caribbean area. Its placement in the genus Varicus is supported by a molecular phylogenetic analysis of three nuclear genes and the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b. In addition, the new species has one anal-fin pterygiophore inserted anterior to the first haemal spine, which distinguishes Varicus species from most species in the closely related and morphologically similar genus Psilotris. Varicus lacerta sp. n. is distinguished from all other named species of Varicus by the absence of scales, having highly branched, feather-like pelvic-fin rays, and in its live coloration. We provide the cytochrome c oxidase I DNA barcode of the holotype and compare color patterns of all species of Varicus and Psilotris for which color photographs or illustrations are available. This study is one of several recent studies demonstrating the utility of manned submersibles in exploring the diversity of poorly studied but species-rich deep-reef habitats.
["Systematics"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Revision of the Gonioctena nivosa species-group (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Chrysomelinae) in the Holarctic region, with descriptions of two new species
The Gonioctena nivosa species-group of the genus Gonioctena Chevrolat, 1836 is defined and reviewed. It contains six species including two new to science: G. gracilicornis (Kraatz, 1879), G. nivosa (Suffrian, 1851), G. norvegica (Strand, 1936), G. springlovae (Bechyně, 1948), G. amurensis Cho & Borowiec, sp. n. and G. jani Cho & Borowiec, sp. n. Six new synonyms are proposed: G. nivosa (= G. arctica alberta Brown, 1952, syn. n., Phytodecta linnaeana bergrothi Jacobson, 1901, syn. n., P. linnaeanus var. mutatus Achard, 1924, syn. n., P. linnaeanus var. simplex Achard, 1924, syn. n. and P. nivosa var. cedehensis Ronchetti, 1922, syn. n.) and G. norvegica (= G. janovskii Medvedev, 1976, syn. n.). Phytodecta flavicornis var. limbatipennis Achard, 1924 and P. nivosa var. bicolor Heyden, 1883 are removed from synonymy with G. nivosa (Suffrian, 1851) and are synonymized with G. flavicornis (Suffrian, 1851). Distribution maps, a key to species, color variation, geographic variation of male genitalia and host plants are provided. Ovoviviparity is newly recorded in G. gracilicornis and G. nivosa. Lectotypes are designated for G. affinis, G. arctica, G. linnaeana bergrothi and G. nivosa.
["Leaf beetles"]

Revision on Palaearctic species of Periclistus Förster with description of a new species and its host plant gall (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae)
Palaearctic species of Periclistus Förster has been systematically described, but a new inquiline gall-wasp, Periclistus qinghainensis sp. n., is described from China. This species was obtained from an unknown stem gall induced on Rosa sp. Diagnosis, distribution and biology of the new species are described in this paper. After examining the types of P. idoneus Belizin, 1973 and P. capillatus Belizin, 1968, it is concluded that P. idoneus belongs to genus Aulacidea, and P. capillatus is a valid species of Periclistus. A key to the Palaearctic Periclistus species is also given.
["Cynipidae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Research on scale insects", "Plant and animal studies"]

Cryptotermes colombianus a new drywood termite and distribution record of Cryptotermes in Colombia
A new species of drywood termite (Kalotermitidae), Cryptotermes colombianus, is described and new records for Cryptotermes cylindroceps and Cryptotermes mangoldi are presented from the Caribbean coast of Colombia. C. colombianus is described from two soldiers and genetic sequences. This unusual species differs noticeably from other regional Cryptotermes species for its weak and inconspicuous definition of the frontal and genal horns and its acute angle of the frons with respect to the vertex. C. colombianus clustered with species from the Ethiopian and Oriental region and it is closely related to Cryptotermes havilandi. C. cylindroceps is widely distributed along the Colombian Caribbean coast, commonly associated with dead wood in mangrove habitats. It also is commonly found in wooden furniture, constituting an important household pest. C. mangoldi is reported from the Caribbean mainland for the first time. With these new records, there are now five Cryptotermes species for Colombia, including the pest species Cryptotermes brevis and Cryptotermes dudleyi. This new description raises the numbers of Neotropical Cryptotermes to a total of 34 species, of which 2 are fossils, 4 introduced, and 28 endemic.
["Cryptotermes colombianus new species"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Neurobiology and Insect Physiology Research"]

A new species of the genus Castoponera (Araneae, Corinnidae) from Sarawak, Borneo, with comparison to a related species
A new species of the genus Castoponera Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001, Castoponera christae sp. n., is described here. The species is closely related to C. lecythus Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001, but can be distinguished by the structures of the male palp and the female genitalia.
["Castianeirinae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Predaceous water beetles (Coleoptera, Hydradephaga) of the Lake St Lucia system, South Africa: biodiversity, community ecology and conservation implications
Water beetles are one of the dominant macroinvertebrate groups in inland waters and are excellent ecological indicators, reflecting both the diversity and composition of the wider aquatic community. The predaceous water beetles (Hydradephaga) make up around one-third of known aquatic Coleoptera and, as predators, are a key group in the functioning of many aquatic habitats. Despite being relatively well-known taxonomically, ecological studies of these insects in tropical and subtropical systems remain rare. A dedicated survey of the hydradephagan beetles of the Lake St Lucia wetlands (South Africa) was undertaken between 2013 and 2015, providing the first biodiversity census for this important aquatic group in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Maputaland biodiversity hotspot. A total of 32 sites covering the entire spectrum of waterbody types were sampled over the course of three collecting trips. The Lake St Lucia wetlands support at least 68 species of Hydradephaga, a very high level of diversity comparing favourably with other hotspots on the African continent and elsewhere in the world and a number of taxa are reported for South Africa for the first time. This beetle assemblage is dominated by relatively widespread Afrotropical taxa, with few locally endemic species, supporting earlier observations that hotspots of species richness and centres of endemism are not always coincident. Although there was no significant difference in the number of species supported by the various waterbody types sampled, sites with the highest species richness were mostly temporary depression wetlands. This contrasts markedly with the distribution of other taxa in the same system, such as molluscs and dragonflies, which are most diverse in permanent waters. Our study is the first to highlight the importance of temporary depression wetlands and emphasises the need to maintain a variety of wetland habitats for aquatic conservation in this biodiverse region.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

A revision of the Stenus flammeus group (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) with descriptions of twelve new species
The Stenus flammeus group is proposed and twelve new species of the group are described: S. corniculus sp. n., S. daicongchaoi sp. n., S. jiajinshanus sp. n., S. jindingianus sp. n., S. paraflammeus sp. n., S. pengzhongi sp. n., S. pseudoflammeus sp. n., S. punctidorsus sp. n., S. tuyueyei sp. n., S. xilingmontis sp. n., and S. zhoudeyaoi sp. n. from Sichuan Province, and S. dabashanus sp. n. from Shaanxi Province. Their diagnostic characters are illustrated and a key to species of the group is provided.

A taxonomic account of the genus Stenodynerus from China, with descriptions of five new species (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae)
In this paper, 20 species of the genus Stenodynerus are reviewed and identified from China, including five new species: S. ninglangensis Ma & Li, sp. n., S. reflexus Ma & Li, sp. n., Stenodynerus similibaronii Ma & Li, sp. n., S. strigatus Ma & Li, sp. n., and S. tenuilamellatus Ma & Li, sp. n., and five new records: S. baronii Giordani Soika, S. bluethgeni van der Vecht, S. picticrus (Thomson), S. pullus Gusenleitner and S. nepalensis Giordani Soika. The five new species are described and illustrated in detail. Moreover, the diagnostic characters of all new records and known species from China are provided, with a key to the Chinese species of Stenodynerus.

A new erythroneurine leafhopper genus from Thailand (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae), with description of three new species
A new genus of tribe Erythroneurini from Thailand, Thaioneura gen. n., including three new species: Thaioneura nigrilinea sp. n. (type species), Thaioneura sinuata sp. n. and Thaioneura suphanburia sp. n., is described and illustrated and a key to species is provided. The new genus exhibits a pattern of interspecific variation in the hind wing venation that has not been observed in other genera of the tribe.
["Homoptera"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Pathogenic Bacteria Studies"]

Uncitermes almeriae, a new termite species from Amazonia (Isoptera, Termitidae, Syntermitinae)
The Neotropical termite genus Uncitermes Rocha & Cancello, 2012 was known from a single species, U. teevani (Emerson, 1925). In this paper a new species, Uncitermes almeriae sp. n., is described and illustrated from worker and soldier castes, along with observations on the Uncitermes nest. A distribution map with the occurrences of both species is presented. The new species is distinguished from its congener by the presence of short bristles covering the head capsule and frontal tube.

A new family Lepidocharontidae with description of Lepidocharon gen. n., from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, and redefinition of the Microparasellidae (Isopoda, Asellota)
Lepidocharontidae Galassi & Bruce, fam. n. is erected, containing Lepidocharon Galassi & Bruce, gen. n. and two genera transferred from the family Microparasellidae Karaman, 1934: Microcharon Karaman, 1934 and Janinella Albuquerque, Boulanouar & Coineau, 2014. The genus Angeliera Chappuis & Delamare Deboutteville, 1952 is placed as genus incertae sedis in this family. The Lepidocharontidae is characterised by having rectangular or trapezoidal somites in dorsal view, a single free pleonite, a tendency to reduction of the coxal plates, and the unique uropodal morphology of a large and long uropodal protopod on which the slender uropodal exopod articulates separately and anteriorly to the endopod. Lepidocharon Galassi & Bruce, gen. n. has a 6-segmented antennula, a well-developed antennal scale (rudimentary exopod), long and slender pereiopods 1–7 directed outwards, coxal plates rudimentary, incorporated to the lateral side of the sternites, not discernible in dorsal view, the single pleonite narrower than pereionite 7, scale-like elements bordering the proximal part of male pleopod 1 on posterior side, and stylet-guiding grooves of male pleopod 1 which run parallel to the outer lateral margins of the same pleopod. Lepidocharon priapus Galassi & Bruce, sp. n., type species for the genus, and Lepidocharon lizardensis Galassi & Bruce, sp. n. are described from Lizard Island, northern Great Barrier Reef. The most similar genus is Microcharon, both genera sharing the same general organization of the male pleopods 1 and 2, topology and architecture of the stylet-guiding groove of male pleopod 1, morphology of female operculum, presence of 2 robust claws of different lengths on pereiopodal dactylus 1–7, not sexually dimorphic. Lepidocharon gen. n. differs from Microcharon in the shape of the pereionites, very reduced coxal plates, the presence of imbricate scale-like elements bordering the proximal postero-lateral margins of the male pleopod 1, and the topology of the pereiopods, which are ventro-laterally inserted and directed outwards in Lepidocharon gen. n. and dorso-laterally inserted and directed ventrally in Microcharon. Lepidocharon shares with the genus Janinella the morphology of the tergites and the reduced lacinia mobilis of the left mandible, but differs significantly from Janinella in having a well-developed antennal scale, very reduced coxal plates also in females bearing oostegites, the general morphology and spatial arrangement of the stylet-guiding groove of male pleopod 1 and the possession of a 6-segmented antennula. The family Microparasellidae is redefined as monotypic, the only genus being Microparasellus Karaman, 1933.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new substance to relax polychaete worms (Annelida) prior to morphological study
A variety of chemical substances have been used to relax and/or immobilize polychaete worms, and other invertebrates, prior to specimen preparation for morphological examination. To solve difficulties encountered during the study of nereidid polychaetes (Annelida: Phyllodocida), an experiment was designed and carried out to investigate a new relaxing agent to immobilize nereidid specimens and stimulate pharynx eversion. The new substance, Dentol® (Khoraman laboratory, Iran), a dental anesthetic and antiseptic medicine containing 10% Carvacrol as the effective ingredient, was used for the first time and compared with other substances that have been used traditionally in polychaete studies. Crosstab analysis showed significant differences between different treatment groups, with Dentol® providing much better results for all considered criteria.
["Carvacrol"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

The phylogenetic position of a new species of Plakobranchus from West Papua, Indonesia (Mollusca, Opisthobranchia, Sacoglossa)
Plakobranchus papua Meyers-Muñoz & van der Velde, sp. n. from West Papua (Papua Barat province, Indonesia), is described based on its external morphology, colour pattern, internal anatomy, radula and reproductive system. In a molecular phylogenetic study specimens of this new species were compared with those of ten candidate taxa under the name Plakobranchus ocellatus van Hasselt, 1824. DNA analyses of COI mtDNA showed a clear distinction between P. papua sp. n. and “P. ocellatus”. Plakobranchus papua, sp. n. also differed from all taxa that have been synonymised with P. ocellatus. The genus is in dire need of taxonomic revision, preferably based on an integrative analysis involving morphology and DNA of all known Plakobranchus varieties.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A new species of Pristimantis (Amphibia, Anura, Craugastoridae) from the foothills of the Andes in Manu National Park, southeastern Peru
We describe a new species of Pristimantis from the humid sub-montane forest of the Región Cusco in Peru. Pristimantis pluvialis sp. n. was collected in the Kosñipata and Entoro valleys at elevations from 740 to 1110 m a.s.l., near the borders of Manu National Park and within the Huachiperi Haramba Queros Conservation Concession. The new species can be distinguished from other members of the genus Pristimantis by its rostral tubercle, smooth dorsal skin, and by its advertisement call. Pristimantis lacrimosus and P. waoranii superficially most resemble the new species, but P. pluvialis sp. n. differs from both species by having a rostral tubercle (absent in P. waoranii and variable in P. lacrimosus) and larger size, from P. lacrimosus by its call emitted at a lower frequency, and from P. waoranii for its dorsal coloration with dark markings. Two other species have partially overlapping distributions and resemble the new species, P. mendax and P. olivaceus, but they produce advertisement calls with much higher dominant frequencies than the advertisement call of the new species. Furthermore, P. mendax differs from the new species by lacking a rostral tubercle and by having a sigmoid inner tarsal fold, whereas P. olivaceus differs by being smaller and by having dorsal skin shagreen with scattered tubercles. The new species has snout-vent length of 21.8–26.9 mm in males (n = 12) and 28.8 mm in a single female.
["Frog"]

Caloparyphus palaearcticus sp. n. (Diptera, Stratiomyidae), the first record for the soldier fly genus in the Palaearctic
Caloparyphus palaearcticus sp. n. is described from Russia and two localities in Mongolia and is the first representative of this genus in the Palaearctic and the only species found outside the New World. The morphological characters of the species are described and illustrated, and relationships to related species of Caloparyphus are discussed.
["Palaearctic Region"]

Two new species of Echinoderes (Kinorhyncha, Cyclorhagida), E. romanoi sp. n. and E. joyceae sp. n., from the Gulf of Mexico
Meiofauna sampling on the continental shelf of the northern Gulf of Mexico has been ongoing since 2007, on annual cruises in collaboration with the National Marine Fisheries Service laboratory in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This sampling has resulted in numerous new species of kinorhynchs from the shelf sediment, two of which are described in detail in this paper. Other species descriptions from this research effort include Echinoderes augustae, E. skipperae, and E. charlotteae. We now describe Echinoderes romanoi sp. n. and E. joyceae sp. n., which are unique in their spine, tube, and glandular cell outlet patterns.
["Echinoderidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

Fanniidae (Diptera): new synonym, new records and an updated key to males of European species of Fannia
Based on revision of large recent collections of the authors, the following five species are first recorded from the Czech Republic: F. collini d’Assis-Fonseca, 1966 (simultaneously first record in Central Europe), F. lugubrina (Zetterstedt, 1838), F. melania (Dufour, 1839), F. slovaca Gregor & Rozkošný, 2005, and F. brinae Albuquerque, 1951 (simultaneously first record from low altitudes). Another species, F. alpina Pont, 1970, is first recorded from Slovak Republic, and F. cothurnata (Loew, 1873) is first recorded from Kazakhstan. An updated key to males of European species of Fannia is presented. A list of Czech and Slovak Fanniidae is appended. One new synonym is established: F. lucida Chillcott, 1961 is considered junior synonym of F. norvegica Ringdahl, 1934. Altogether two species are first recorded from Bohemia [F. cothurnata (Loew, 1873) and F. vespertilionis Ringdahl, 1934] and three for Moravia [F. alpina Pont, 1970, F. conspecta Rudzinski, 2003, and F. limbata (Tiensuu, 1938) – this species considered in Central Europe very rare was found in numbers near waters both running and standing in early spring under unusually warm temperature conditions].

Two new species and new provincial records of aleocharine rove beetles from Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Two new species, Atheta pseudovestita Klimaszewski & Langor, sp. n., Silusa prettyae Klimaszewski & Langor, sp. n., are described, and 16 new provincial records, including one new country record, of aleocharine beetles are presented for the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Diagnostics, images of habitus and genital structures, distribution, bionomics information and new locality data are provided for the newly recorded species. A new checklist with 189 species of aleocharines recorded from the province is presented.

Amphibians and reptiles of the state of Coahuila, Mexico, with comparison with adjoining states
We compiled a checklist of the amphibians and reptiles of the state of Coahuila, Mexico. The list comprises 133 species (24 amphibians, 109 reptiles), representing 27 families (9 amphibians, 18 reptiles) and 65 genera (16 amphibians, 49 reptiles). Coahuila has a high richness of lizards in the genus Sceloporus. Coahuila has relatively few state endemics, but has several regional endemics. Overlap in the herpetofauna of Coahuila and bordering states is fairly extensive. Of the 132 species of native amphibians and reptiles, eight are listed as Vulnerable, six as Near Threatened, and six as Endangered in the IUCN Red List. In the SEMARNAT listing, 19 species are Subject to Special Protection, 26 are Threatened, and three are in Danger of Extinction. Coahuila is home to several species of conservation concern, especially lizards and turtles. Coahuila is an important state for the conservation of the native regional fauna.

A new, genetically divergent species of Pseudobaikalia Lindholm, 1909 (Caenogastropoda, Baicaliidae)
A new gastropod species, Pseudobaikalia michelae Sitnikoiva & Kovalenkova, sp. n., (family Baicaliidae) is described from Lake Baikal. This is the first new species from the Baicaliidae for forty years. The new species is distinguished from its sister taxa by means of comparative morphology as well as analyses of DNA sequences (mtDNA and an intron of alpha-subunit gene of ATP-synthase). It was found in the southern and central-eastern parts of the lake where it occurs sympatrically with three other baicaliid species. Characters of the female reproductive system (i.e., a long oviduct loop with 2–3 narrow tube-like evaginations) and the aperture (i.e., oval shape with a simple outer lip) place these snails in the genus Pseudobaikalia Lindholm, 1909. The new species is most similar in its shell morphology to the northern Baikal species P. jentteriana (smooth elongated shape) but differs by a more oval aperture that is slightly angled to the columella. Combined mitochondrial and nuclear sequences in a Bayesian analysis showed that all specimens of P. michelae sp. n. form a well-supported clade.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

Two new species of frogs of the genus Pristimantis from Llanganates National Park in Ecuador with comments on the regional diversity of Ecuadorian Pristimantis (Anura, Craugastoridae)
We describe two new species of frogs of the genus Pristimantis from the eastern slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes, at Parque Nacional Llanganates. The new species are characterized by the spiny appearance typical of several species inhabiting montane forests. Pristimantis yanezi sp. n. is most similar to P. colonensis and P. incanus but differs from both in groin coloration and by having smaller tubercles on the upper eyelids, heels, and tarsus. Pristimantis llanganati sp. n. is most similar to P. eriphus and P. chloronotus. It can be distinguished from P. eriphus by the color pattern on the scapular region and by having smaller conical tubercles on the dorsum. Pristimantis chloronotus differs from P. llanganati sp. n. in having a pair of sinuous paravertebral folds. Both new species occur in a region with few amphibian collections and nothing is known about their abundance and ecology. Therefore, it is recommended to assign them to the Data Deficient Red List category. Updated figures of species richness of Pristimantis among biogeographic regions in Ecuador are also presented. Pristimantis reach their highest diversity in Montane Forests of the eastern versant of the Andes. Its species richness across regions cannot be explained by regional area, elevation, temperature, or precipitation. Political endemism in Pristimantis is higher than that of other terrestrial vertebrates.

Granopupa in Iran, monophyly, and the fossil Granariinae (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Chondrinidae)
Indisputable Chondrinidae, Granariinae species, characterized by shell shape and apertural dentition, are known from Eocene deposits to the Recent. The generic classification of the extant species is based on conchological, anatomical and molecular data that are available now for most of the known species, including ‘Granaria’ persica as a representative of the once problematic group of so-called eastern Granaria species. According to molecular and anatomical characters, these eastern species have to be classified with Granopupa granum in Granopupa. Graniberia gen. n. is introduced for G. braunii on the basis of molecular and conchological data. For the pre-Pleistocene species, two generic names are equally well available now, viz. Granopupa and Granaria. Shell characters only do not enable a decision here. For the sake of nomenclatorial stability we propose to use Granaria for these species. Because both molecular and anatomical data most likely will never be known for the fossils, it will remain unclear whether the combined extant and extinct Granaria species form a monophyletic group.
["Granopupa"]

Possible living fossil in Bolivia: A new genus of flea beetles with modified hind legs (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
A new genus (Chanealtica) with three new species (C. cuevas, C. ellimon, and C. maxi) from Bolivia is described and illustrated. It is compared with Aphthonoides Jacoby, 1885, Argopistes Motschulsky, 1860, Metroserrapha Bechyne, 1958, Psylliodes Berthold, 1827 and Psyllototus Nadein, 2010. Remarkably, based on the available characters, among all the flea beetles, Chanealtica is mostly similar to an extinct genus Psyllototus. A discussion of diversity and function of the hind leg in flea beetles is provided.
["Flea beetles"]

The family Plectopylidae (Gastropoda, Pulmonata) in Laos with the description of two new genera and a new species
Previously only a single plectopylid species, Helix laomontana L. Pfeiffer, 1862 was reported from Laos. Here we erect Naggsia Páll-Gergely & Muratov, gen. n. for H. laomontana based on the description of its reproductive anatomy and radula. Another species, Hunyadiscus saurini Páll-Gergely, gen. & sp. n. is described from Northern Laos based on conchological data. Helix (Plectopylis) andersoni Blanford, 1869, which is known from the Burmese-Chinese border region, is also classified within Hunyadiscus Páll-Gergely, gen. n. A third species, Gudeodiscus (Gudeodiscus) messageri raheemi Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, 2015 is reported from Laos for the first time. The new localities represent the westernmost sites of the genus Gudeodiscus. The reproductive anatomy of the latter species is described.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A revision of Chilicola (Heteroediscelis), a subgenus of xeromelissine bees (Hymenoptera, Colletidae) endemic to Chile: taxonomy, phylogeny, and biogeography, with descriptions of eight new species
The bee subgenus Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) Toro & Moldenke, 1979 (Hymenoptera, Colletidae, Xeromelissinae) is revised. The subgenus is considered endemic to Chile and occurs across a broad range of habitats. Eight new species are described: Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) charizard Monckton, sp. n., Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) curvapeligrosa Monckton, sp. n., Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) guanicoe Monckton, sp. n., Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) katherinae Monckton, sp. n., Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) lickana Monckton, sp. n., Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) mayu Monckton, sp. n., Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) packeri Monckton, sp. n., and Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) randolphi Monckton, sp. n. One of the existing species, Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) valparaiso Toro & Moldenke, 1979, syn. n., is treated as a junior synonym of Chilicola (Heteroediscelis) mantagua Toro & Moldenke, 1979, and the nine remaining valid species are redescribed. Thoroughly illustrated keys to species for males and females are provided, along with habitus images, images of male terminalia, distribution maps for each species, and a map of relevant Chilean biogeographic regions. Results of phylogenetic analyses are presented, based upon 74 morphological characters and on CO1 barcode sequences, analyzed both separately and as a combined dataset. Monophyly of the subgenus is supported, and groupings within the subgenus are discussed in light of a biogeographic analysis of their species distributions (spatial analysis of vicariance), whereby divergence between taxa is found to occur primarily via north-south disjunctions.

A taxonomic review of the centipede genus Scolopendra Linnaeus, 1758 (Scolopendromorpha, Scolopendridae) in mainland Southeast Asia, with description of a new species from Laos
The centipede genus Scolopendra in mainland Southeast Asia is reviewed taxonomically based on morphological characters, informed by a molecular phylogenetic analysis using sequences from three mitochondrial and nuclear genes (COI, 16S rRNA and 28S rRNA). Eight nominal species of Scolopendra, namely S. morsitans Linnaeus, 1758, S. subspinipes Leach, 1816, S. dehaani Brandt, 1840, S. multidens Newport, 1844, S. calcarata Porat, 1876, S. japonica Koch, 1878, S. pinguis Pocock, 1891, and S. dawydoffi Kronmüller, 2012, are redescribed together with some revision of type materials. Geographical variation in each species has been compiled with reference to samples that span their distribution ranges in Southeast Asia and some parts of neighbouring areas such as East Asia, the Indian Ocean, and Africa. Comparative study of traditional taxonomic characters from external morphology provides further information to distinguish some closely related species. Scolopendra cataracta Siriwut, Edgecombe & Panha, sp. n., is described from the southern part of Laos, with additional records in Thailand and Vietnam. The phylogenetic framework for Southeast Asian Scolopendra recognizes S. calcarata + S. pinguis, S. morsitans, and a S. subspinipes group that unites the other six species as the main clades. Within the S. subspinipes group, two monophyletic groups can be distinguished by having either slender or short, thick ultimate leg prefemora and different numbers of apical spines on the coxopleuron. Scolopendra arborea Lewis, 1982, is placed in subjective synonymy with S. dehaani. A survey of external morphology of the genital segments confirms its potential for improving species identification in Scolopendra. Some observations on biology and behaviour are recorded based on field surveys in this area.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

Three new species of Misionella from northern Brazil (Araneae, Haplogynae, Filistatidae)
Three new species of the genus Misionella are described from Brazil: M. carajas sp. n. and M. aikewara sp. n. from caves in the states of Pará and Tocantins and M. pallida sp. n. from natural and synanthropic dry areas in the states of Piauí, Maranhão, Rio Grande do Norte and Bahia. These species seem to belong to a distinct group within the genus; the males have an elongate palpal tibia and bulb, a pair of characteristic and hirsute macrosetae in the second metatarsus and the females have internal genitalia with only one pair of spermathecae, with relatively short ducts, lacking the auxiliary receptacles. Their phylogenetic placement and geographic distribution are briefly discussed.
["Caves"]

The first revision of the carnivorous land snail family Streptaxidae in Laos, with description of three new species (Pulmonata, Stylommatophora, Streptaxidae)
The family Streptaxidae in Laos is revised. Twelve species are known, mainly from limestone areas, in the genera Discartemon Pfeiffer, 1856, Perrottetia Kobelt, 1905, Haploptychius Möllendorff, 1906, and Indoartemon Forcart, 1946. Three new species, P. unidentata sp. n. and P. megadentata sp. n. from northern and central Laos, and I. diodonta sp. n. from central Laos, are described. All eight species of these three genera previously recorded from Laos are revised and discussed based on examined material from Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand. Type material was examined and lectotypes are designated. Details of genital anatomy and radulae are provided, including the first detailed genitalia and radula descriptions from Haploptychius. Two novelties in Streptaxidae, a vaginal caecum, and the occurrence of aphallic individuals, are reported from H. pellucens (Pfeiffer, 1863).
["Limestone"]

The morphology of the immature stages of Metadonus vuillefroyanus (Capiomont, 1868) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Hyperini) and notes on its biology
Last instar larva and pupa of Metadonus vuillefroyanus (Capiomont, 1868) (Curculionidae: Hyperini) are described and compared with known larvae of the other 43 hyperine taxa. The thorn-like setae located on distinct black protuberances on the larval body are characteristic features of the genus Metadonus and the subgenus Eririnomorphus of the genus Hypera. The biological singularity of this species was studied and described. The variable colouration of larvae has been confirmed in association with the variability of the host plant’s colouration at the studied localities. This species’ reported inability to spin cocoons has been disproven. A different type of cocoon with two layers, where the inner layer consists of proteins from Malpighian tubules while the outer layer contains soil particles, is described. This type of cocoon is unique compared with those known from other hyperines, which usually pupate on or above the ground and do not use substrate particles in building their cocoons.
["Weevil"]

Species of Elasmogorgia and Euplexaura (Cnidaria, Octocorallia) from Japan with a discussion about the genus Filigella
Octocorals with thread-like colony shape have been re-examined, mainly from Japanese waters. The holotypes of Elasmogorgia filiformis and Filigella boninensis and a syntype of F. mitsukurii have been studied. Euplexaura arbuscula is identified and Euplexaura yayoii sp. n. described.
["Astrogorgia"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Sergey gen. n., a new doryctine genus from temperate forests of Mexico and Cuba (Hymenoptera, Braconidae)
The new doryctine genus Sergey gen. n. is described with four new species (S. cubaensis Zaldívar-Riverón & Martínez, sp. n., S. coahuilensis Zaldívar-Riverón & Martínez, sp. n., S. tzeltal Martínez & Zalídivar-Riverón, sp. n., S. tzotzil Martínez & Zalídivar-Riverón, sp. n.) from temperate forests of Mexico and Cuba. Similar to many other doryctine taxa, the new genus has a considerably elongated, petiolate basal sternal plate of the first metasomal tergite, although it can be distinguished from these by having the mesoscutum sharply declivous anteriorly with sharp anterolateral edges. The described species have been characterised molecularly based on two mitochondrial (COI, cyt b) and one nuclear (28S) gene markers. Based on the mitochondrial gene genealogies reconstructed, the evidence suggests the existence of incomplete lineage sorting or hybridization in the populations from Chiapas and Oaxaca assigned to S. tzeltal sp. n.
["Doryctinae"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Three new species of Osmylus Latreille from China (Neuroptera, Osmylidae)
Three new species of Osmylus Latreille are described from China: Osmylus maoershanicola sp. n., Osmylus shaanxiensis sp. n. and Osmylus angustimarginatus sp. n. These new species are distinguishable from other related species by the shape of the 9th tergite of both sexes, as well as the shape of gonarcus, mediuncus and spermatheca. A key is given to differentiate Palaearctic and Oriental species of Osmylus.

Synopsis of Central Andean Orthalicoid land snails (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora), excluding Bulimulidae
A faunal overview is presented of the molluscan families Amphibulimidae, Megaspiridae, Odontostomidae, Orthalicidae, Simpulopsidae in Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru. These Central Andean countries are known for their biodiverse malacofauna, of which the superfamily Orthalicoidea takes relatively a large share. In this paper the five families containing 103 (sub)species, for which systematic information (original publication, type locality, type depository, summarizing literature) and distributional records are presented. All species are illustrated by photographs of the type material or, if this could not be located, by a reproduction of the original figure. The following new taxon is introduced: Thaumastus (Thaumastus) sumaqwayqusp. n. Junior subjective synonyms are established for: Plekocheilus (Sparnotion) Pilsbry, 1944 = Plekocheilus (Eudolichotis) Pilsbry, 1896; Scholvienia (Thomsenia) Strebel, 1910 = Scholvienia Strebel, 1910; Sultana (Trachyorthalicus) Strebel, 1909 = Sultana (Metorthalicus) Pilsbry, 1899; Plekocheilus (Eurytus) conspicuus Pilsbry, 1932 = Thaumastus (Thaumastus) hartwegi (Pfeiffer in Philippi, 1846); Zebra gruneri Strebel, 1909 = Orthalicus maracaibensis (Pfeiffer, 1856); Scholvienia jaspidea minor Strebel, 1910 = Scholvienia alutacea (Reeve, 1850); Bulimus bifasciatus unicolor Philippi, 1869 = Scholvienia brephoides (d’Orbigny, 1835). A new status is given to Plekocheilus mcgintyi ‘Pilsbry’ H.B. Baker, 1963 (subspecies of Bulinus piperitus Sowerby I, 1837); Strophocheilus superstriatus var. prodeflexus Pilsbry, 1895 (subspecies of Bulinus piperitus Sowerby I, 1837); Thaumastus (Quechua) salteri maximus Weyrauch, 1967 (subspecies of Thaumastus (Quechua) olmosensis Zilch, 1954); Pseudoglandina agitata Weyrauch, 1967 (nomen inquirendum). New combinations are: Clathrorthalicus corydon (Crosse, 1869), and Cyclodontina chuquisacana (Marshall, 1930). Lectotypes are now designated for Bulimus incisus Hupé, 1857 and Bulinus piperitus Sowerby I, 1837.
["Mollusca"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Paleopathology and ancient diseases"]

A new termite (Isoptera, Termitidae, Syntermitinae, Macuxitermes) from Colombia
A new species of termite, Macuxitermes colombicus Postle & Scheffrahn is described from soldiers and workers collected from Departamento Magdalena, Colombia. The soldier of M. colombicus differs from its lone congener in having no protuberances on the head capsule.
["Isoptera"]

Two new species of the genus Panorpa Linnaeus (Mecoptera, Panorpidae) from Yunnan, China
Two new scorpionfly species, Panorpa reflexa sp. n. and Panorpa parallela sp. n., are described and illustrated from Yunnan Province, China. Panorpa reflexa can be readily differentiated from its congeners by the 3-shaped parameres in male genitalia. Panorpa parallela is unique for its parallel parameres in male genitalia. The number of Panorpa species is raised to four in Yunnan Province, and to 113 throughout China.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Braconinae parasitoids (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) emerged from larvae of Lobesia botrana (Denis & Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) feeding on Daphne gnidium L.
Bracon admotus Papp, 2000, and three species of the genus Habrobracon Ashmead, 1895, H. concolorans (Marshall, 1900), H. hebetor (Say, 1836) and H. pillerianae Fischer, 1980, were obtained from the larvae of Lobesia botrana (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775) (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) feeding on Daphne gnidium Linnaeus, 1753 (Thymelaeaceae) in the natural reserve of Migliarino-San Rossore-Massaciuccoli (Pisa-Central Italy). Bracon admotus, Habrobracon concolorans and H. pillerianae were found for the first time to be associated with L. botrana, while H. hebetor was reared for the first time from the larvae of Cryptoblabes gnidiella (Millière, 1867) (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Phycitinae) that was found on the same host plant. Bracon admotus and H. pillerianae are new to the fauna of Italy and Western Europe. A key is proposed for the determination of Habrobracon species reared from L. botrana and related Palaearctic species of this genus. Habrobracon lineatellae Fisher, 1968 is considered as a valid species.
["European grapevine moth"]

The genus Bebryce (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Plexauridae) at Japan, with descriptions of three new species
Three new deep-water species of Bebryce from Japan are described and depicted using Scanning Electron Microscopy: B. otsuchiensis sp. n., B. rotunda sp. n., and B. satsumaensis sp. n. Bebryce studeri Whitelegge, 1897, was reported from Japanese waters for the first time, bringing the total of Japanese Bebryce species to six. Five of these six species seem to be endemic to Japanese waters and all occur in deep water up to 213 m. A key to the Bebryce species is presented.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

An annotated checklist of Microweiseinae and Sticholotidini of Iran (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
An updated checklist of the Coccinellidae species of the former subfamily Sticholotidinae recorded from Iran is provided. Eleven species are reported: two species classified presently in the subfamily Microweiseinae (in the genera Paracoelopterus Normand, 1936 and Serangium Blackburn, 1889), and nine species classified in the tribe Sticholotidini of the subfamily Coccinellinae (in the genera Coelopterus Mulsant & Rey, 1852 and Pharoscymnus Bedel, 1906). Pharoscymnus smirnovi Dobzhansky, 1927 is removed from the list of the Coccinellidae of Iran. Distribution of species in Iranian provinces is presented. Data concerning their host plants along with their prey species are also included when known. Morphological features of two rarely collected and poorly known species of Iranian fauna, Pharoscymnus brunneosignatus Mader, 1949 and P. pharoides (Marseul, 1868) are diagnosed and illustrated.

A revision of the Chinese Aulacidae (Hymenoptera, Evanioidea)
The Chinese Aulacidae are revised, keyed and illustrated for the first time. In total twenty-five species are recorded from China, included within two genera Aulacus Jurine, 1807 and Pristaulacus Kieffer, 1900, with five and twenty species respectively. Among the treated species, six are newly described for science: Aulacus magnus sp. n., Pristaulacus calidus sp. n., P. centralis sp. n., P. fopingi sp. n., P. obscurus sp. n., and P. pseudoiosephi sp. n. Three species are newly recorded from China: P. excisus Turner, 1922, P. iosephi Turrisi & Madl, 2013, and P. rufobalteatus Cameron, 1907.
["Aulacidae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

New species of Austropurcellia, cryptic short-range endemic mite harvestmen (Arachnida, Opiliones, Cyphophthalmi) from Australia’s Wet Tropics biodiversity hotspot
The genus Austropurcellia is a lineage of tiny leaf-litter arachnids that inhabit tropical rainforests throughout the eastern coast of Queensland, Australia. The majority of their diversity is found within the Wet Tropics rainforests of northeast Queensland, an area known for its exceptionally high levels of biodiversity and endemism. Studying the biogeographic history of limited-dispersal invertebrates in the Wet Tropics can provide insight into the role of climatic changes such as rainforest contraction in shaping rainforest biodiversity patterns. Here we describe six new species of mite harvestmen from the Wet Tropics rainforests, identified using morphological data, and discuss the biogeography of Austropurcellia with distributions of all known species. With this taxonomic contribution, the majority of the known diversity of the genus has been documented.
["Queensland"]
["Income, Poverty, and Inequality", "HIV/AIDS Impact and Responses", "Child Nutrition and Water Access"]

New species in the Sitalcina sura species group (Opiliones, Laniatores, Phalangodidae), with evidence for a biogeographic link between California desert canyons and Arizona sky islands
The western United States is home to numerous narrowly endemic harvestman taxa (Arachnida, Opiliones), including members of the genus Sitalcina Banks, 1911. Sitalcina is comprised of three species groups, including the monospecific S. californica and S. lobata groups, and the S. sura group with eight described species. All species in the S. sura group have very small geographic distributions, with group members distributed like disjunct “beads on a string” from Monterey south to southern California and southeast to the sky-island mountain ranges of southern Arizona. Here, molecular phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses were conducted for all described species in the S. sura group, plus several newly discovered populations. Species trees were reconstructed using multispecies coalescent methods implemented in *BEAST, and species delimitation was accomplished using Bayes Factor Delimitation (BFD). Based on quantitative species delimitation results supported by consideration of morphological characters, two new species (Sitalcina oasiensis sp. n., Sitalcina ubicki sp. n.) are described. We also provide a description of the previously unknown male of S. borregoensis Briggs, 1968. Molecular phylogenetic evidence strongly supports distinctive desert versus coastal clades, with desert canyon taxa from southern California more closely related to Arizona taxa than to geographically proximate California coastal taxa. We hypothesize that southern ancestry and plate tectonics have played a role in the diversification history of this animal lineage, similar to sclerophyllous plant taxa of the Madro-Tertiary Geoflora. Molecular clock analyses for the S. sura group are generally consistent with these hypotheses. We also propose that additional Sitalcina species await discovery in the desert canyons of southern California and northern Baja, and the mountains of northwestern mainland Mexico.
["Species delimitation"]

The larvae of the European species of genus Apataniana Mosely, 1936 (Trichoptera, Apataniidae): descriptions, key and ecology
This paper describes the previously unknown or insufficiently known larvae of Apataniana hellenica, Apataniana stropones and Apataniana vardusia. Species association was enabled by the fact that the three micro-endemic Apataniana larvae are restricted to Greece and the only Apataniidae species recorded in European ecoregion 6 (Hellenic Western Balkan; Graf et al. 2008), and that the endemic status of the three species clearly defined their non-overlapping sampling ranges. Information on the morphology of the larvae is given, and the most important diagnostic features are illustrated.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Taxonomic notes relating to Glenea diversenotata Schwarzer and G. quadriguttata Pic (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
Glenea diversenotata Schwarzer, 1925 is reinstated from a subspecies of G. tonkinea Aurivillius, 1925 to species level and G. neohumerosa Lin & Yang, 2011 is a new junior synonym. Some biological information on G. diversenotata is recorded for the first time, including pictures of the larva and pupa. G. quadriguttata Pic, 1926 is reinstated from a subspecies of G. lacteomaculata Schwarzer, 1925 to species level. Lectotypes for G. lacteomaculata and G. quadriguttata are designated. A modified key to the related species is presented.
["Saperdini"]

Position of the dentifera-group in the Coronatella-branch and its relocation to a new genus: Magnospina gen. n. (Crustacea, Chydoridae, Aloninae)
Magnospina gen. n. was created to relocate species of the dentifera-group from Alona sensu lato (Crustacea: Cladocera) and include Magnospina dentifera comb. n. and Magnospina siamensis comb. n. The synapomorphies of the Magnospina gen. n. are (1) basal spines longer than 2/3 of the postabdominal claw, (2) presence of 1–4 large denticles, broad at their bases, protruding downwards, without setules between them. Morphological traits such as habitus, rostrum and postabdomen shape, armature of IDL setae, number of setae on the exopod of limb III are also important in the distinction between Magnospina gen. n. and other genera from the Coronatella-branch. The morphology of Magnospina dentifera comb. n. male confirms the closer relationship with the clade composed by the elgans-group from Alona sensu lato, Ovalona and Leberis, but the external morphology, morphology of the postabdominal claw, basal spine and setae 2–3 of IDL support their separation from any of the group cited. It is concluded that the Coronatella-lineage of Aloninae is composed of the genera Coronatella, Anthalona, Karualona, Bergamina, Extremalona, Ovalona, Celsinotum, Leberis and Magnospina gen. n. The elegans-group from Alona sensu lato also belongs to Coronatella-lineage, but still need formal allocation.
["Alona"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

A new genus and species of leaf-mining moth from the French Alps, Mercantouria neli gen. n., sp. n. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae)
The Alps are a hotspot of biodiversity in Europe with many Lepidoptera species still to be discovered. Here we describe a new gracillariid genus and species, Mercantouria neli gen. n. and sp. n. The morphology of the male genitalia is highly differentiated with unique features. DNA barcodes show that its nearest neighbor is the North American species ‘Caloptilia’ scutellariella (Braun, 1923). M. neli is known from four adults (two males and two females) collected at two localities in the French Alps. Its host plant and life cycle remain unknown.

Redescription and designation of a neotype for Caecum floridanum (Littorinimorpha, Truncatelloidea, Caecidae) with a characterization of the protoconch and growth stages
After an extensive search for the type specimens of Caecum floridanum Stimpson, 1851, we believe that these specimens may have been either lost or destroyed in the Chicago fire (1871). This paper presents a redescription of the species and a neotype is designated based on material from the type locality (Florida). Protoconch and growth stages of C. floridanum are described and illustrated herein. The teleoconch IV of C. floridanum is characterized by strong, wide, low, rounded, closely arranged axial ribs, except last three to four preceding the aperture, which are larger and more widely separated. Caecum compactum Dall, 1892 is here synonymized under C. floridanum. Caecum annulatum Emmons, 1858 and C. dux Folin, 1871 are not considered synonyms of C. floridanum in this report.
["Micromollusks"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Megastigmus seed chalcids (Hymenoptera, Torymidae) radiated much more on Angiosperms than previously considered. I- Description of 8 new species from Kenya, with a key to the females of Eastern and Southern Africa
A survey of seed chalcids from woody plants in Kenya revealed 12 species belonging to the genus Megastigmus Dalman, 1820, and has increased to 16 the number of Megastigmus species presently recorded from the Afrotropical Region, of which at least 13 are seed feeders. A key to female Megastigmus of the Afrotropical Region is provided. Eight new species are described from morphological evidence: M. lanneae Roques & Copeland, M. laventhali Roques & Copeland, M. ozoroae Roques & Copeland, and M. smithi Roques & Copeland in seeds of species of the family Anacardiaceae, M. copelandi Roques & Copeland and M. grewianae Roques & Copeland in seeds of Malvaceae, M. helinae Roques & Copeland in seeds of Rhamnaceae, and M. icipeensis Roques & Copeland for which no host is known. These collections include the first records of Malvaceae and Rhamnaceae as hosts of Megastigmus seed chalcids, which appear to have radiated in Angiosperms much more than previously considered. Analyses of the mitochondrial (cytochrome oxidase subunit one – COI) and nuclear DNA (28S ribosomal region) could be carried out on 8 of the 16 African species of which 5 were newly described ones. The species associated with Anacardiaceae always clustered together in phylogenies, confirming the existence of a strong and ancestral monophyletic clade, unlike the ones associated with Malvaceae and Rhamnaceae, whose position remains unclear. All holotypes are deposited in the National Museums of Kenya.

DNA barcoding and morphological analyses revealed validity of Diadema clarki Ikeda, 1939 (Echinodermata, Echinoidea, Diadematidae)
A long-spined sea urchin Diadema-sp reported from Japanese waters was genetically distinct from all known Diadema species, but it remained undescribed. Extensive field surveys in Japan with molecular identification performed in the present study determined five phenotypes (I to V) in Diadema-sp according to the presence and/or shape of a white streak and blue iridophore lines in the naked space of the interambulacral area. All phenotypes were distinct from Diadema setosum (Leske, 1778) and Diadema savignyi (Audouin, 1829), of which a major type (I) corresponded to Diadema clarki Ikeda, 1939 that was questioned and synonymized with D. setosum by Mortensen (1940). The holotype of D. clarki has not been found, but three unlabeled dried tests of Diadema were found among Ikeda’s original collection held in the Kitakyushu Museum of Natural History and Human History, Fukuoka, Japan. A short mtDNA COI fragment (ca. 350bp) was amplified from one of the tests, and the nucleotide sequence determined (275bp) was nearly identical with that of Diadema-sp. Arrangements of the primary tubercles on the coronal plates in Diadema-sp and the museum specimen also conformed with D. clarki, indicating that Diadema-sp is identical to D. clarki and a valid species. Narrow latitudinal distribution (31°N to 35°N) of D. clarki in Japan was observed, where it co-existed with abundant D. setosum and rare D. savignyi. No D. clarki was found in the southern islands in Japan, such as Satsunan Islands to Ryukyu Islands and Ogasawara Island, where D. setosum and D. savignyi were commonly observed.
["Diadema"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Records of Limoniidae and Pediciidae (Diptera) from Armenia, with the first Armenian checklist of these families
Records of species of the families Limoniidae and Pediciidae are presented from Armenia. A total of 38 species of Limoniidae and four species of Pediciidae are listed. Of these, 27 species of Limoniidae and one species of Pediciidae represent the first records from Armenia. The first checklist of these families from Armenia is appended, containing 77 species of Limoniidae and six species of Pediciidae.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Bartonella species infections research"]

Papiliocoelotes gen. n., a new genus of Coelotinae (Araneae, Agelenidae) spiders from the Wuling Mountains, China
One new genus of the spider subfamily Coelotinae, Papiliocoelotes gen. n., with five new species is described for both sexes: P. guanyinensis sp. n., P. guitangensis sp. n., P. jiepingensis sp. n., P. meiyuensis sp. n., P. yezhouensis sp. n. All new species were collected from caves in the Wuling Mountains of Hubei and Hunan Provinces, China. DNA barcodes were obtained for future use.

Keylimepie peckorum gen. n. and sp. n., (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from southern Florida, U.S., the first known brachypterous member of the subfamily Microgastrinae
Keylimepie peckorum Fernandez-Triana, gen. n. and sp. n., are described from southern Florida, U.S. Females have the shortest wings (0.6–0.7 × body length) of any known microgastrine wasp. The genus can also be recognized on features of the head, propodeum and first three metasomal tergites. All specimens were collected in hammock forests of the Florida Keys and Everglades National Park, but their host caterpillar is unknown. Because its morphology is unique and it is the first new microgastrine genus discovered in North America since 1985, the potential for future conservation of the species is discussed.
["Microgastrinae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

What Azure blues occur in Canada? A re-assessment of Celastrina Tutt species (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)
The identity of Celastrina species in eastern Canada is reviewed based on larval host plants, phenology, adult phenotypes, mtDNA barcodes and re-assessment of published data. The status of the Cherry Gall Azure (C. serotina Pavulaan & Wright) as a distinct species in Canada is not supported by any dataset, and is removed from the Canadian fauna. Previous records of this taxon are re-identified as C. lucia (Kirby) and C. neglecta (Edwards). Evidence is presented that both Celastrina lucia and Celastrina neglecta have a second, summer-flying generation in parts of Canada. The summer generation of C. lucia has previously been misidentified as C. neglecta, which differs in phenology, adult phenotype and larval hosts from summer C. lucia. DNA barcodes are highly conserved among at least three North American Celastrina species, and provide no taxonomic information. Celastrina neglecta has a Canadian distribution restricted to southern Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and easternmost Alberta. The discovery of museum specimens of Celastrina ladon (Cramer) from southernmost Ontario represents a new species for the Canadian butterfly fauna, which is in need of conservation status assessment.
["Voltinism"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of alpine Apenetretus Kurnakov from Taiwan: evidences from DNA barcodes and morphological characteristics (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Patrobini)
There are three isolated mountain ranges in Taiwan including Hsueshan Range, Central Mountain Range, and Yushan Range. The rise of these mountains has resulted in the isolation of some species and caused allopatric distribution resulting in divergence and speciation events of high mountain carabids, especially the flightless carabids such as Epaphiopsis, Apenetretus, and partial Nebria. Genus Apenetretus Kurnakov (1960) is typically distributed in high mountain areas of Taiwan. Three of the currently known Apenetretus species have been described from different mountain ranges. These species include A. yushanensis Habu, A. nanhutanus Habu, and A. smetanai Zamotajlov and Sciaky. In this study, a new species is described from Hsueshan, a mountain separated from the ranges of the previous known species, Apenetretus hsueshanensis sp. n. A key to the Taiwanese Apenetretus is included. A reconstructed phylogeny of the Taiwanese Apenetretus is introduced with the use of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Molecular data and geographical distribution of Apenetretus support the morphological characteristics observed among those mountain-isolated species and confirms the new species as being distinctly different. Moreover, lineage calibration suggests that the southern A. yushanensis is the most distant one compared to the other three northern Apenetretus at ca. 1.81 million years ago (mya), while the divergence time of A. hsueshanensis to its sister group was dated to 0.94 mya.
["Apenetretus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Description and life-cycle of Taenia lynciscapreoli sp. n. (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea)
A new species of tapeworm, Taenia lynciscapreoli sp. n. (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea), is described from the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), the main definitive host, and the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus and C. pygargus), the main intermediate hosts, from Finland and Russia (Siberia and the Russian Far East). The new species was found once also in the wolf (Canis lupus) and the Eurasian elk/moose (Alces alces), representing accidental definitive and intermediate hosts, respectively. The conspecificity of adult specimens and metacestodes of T. lynciscapreoli sp. n. in various host species and regions, and their distinction from related species of Taenia, was confirmed by partial nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene. Morphologically, T. lynciscapreoli sp. n. can be separated unambiguously from all other species of Taenia by the shape of its large rostellar hooks, particularly the characteristically short, wide and strongly curved blade. If the large rostellar hooks are missing, T. lynciscapreoli may be separated from related species by a combination of morphological features of mature proglottids. It is suggested that T. lynciscapreoli has been present in published materials concerning the tapeworms of L. lynx and L. pardinus in Europe, but has been misidentified as Taenia pisiformis (Bloch, 1780). Taenia lynciscapreoli sp. n. has not been found in lynx outside the range of roe deer, suggesting a transmission pathway based on a specific predator–prey relationship. The present study applies a novel, simple approach to compare qualitative interspecific differences in the shape of rostellar hooks.
["Tapeworms"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasitic infections in humans and animals", "Parasitic Infections and Diagnostics"]

Pseudouroctonus maidu, a new species of scorpion from northern California (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae)
A new species of vaejovid scorpion from northern California, Pseudouroctonus maidu sp. n., is named and described. This new species appears to be most similar to Pseudouroctonus iviei (Gertsch & Soleglad, 1972) and Pseudouroctonus glimmei (Hjelle, 1972).
["California"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Study of Mite Species"]

Revision of sinistral land snails of the genus Camaena (Stylommatophora, Camaenidae) from China based on morphological and molecular data, with description of a new species from Guangxi, China
The camaenid land snail genus Camaena is widely distributed throughout Southeast Asia. Thirteen species are found in China alone. Among these, C. cicatricosa (Müller, 1774) is the most widely distributed species, including four subspecies, C. c. ducalis (Ancey, 1885), C. c. inflata (Möllendorff, 1885), C. c. obtecta (Fischer, 1898) and C. c. connectens (Dautzenberg & Fischer, 1906). The systematics of these taxa is revised herein based on comparative shell morphology and anatomy as well as analyses of DNA sequences of two mitochondrial genes (COI, 16S rRNA) and one nuclear marker, ITS2. We found that all subspecies form well-supported clades in a molecular phylogeny and are well-differentiated from each other by genetic distances that are consistent with amounts of interspecific differentiation. In addition, they clearly differ from each other in reproductive features. Based on these observations, we elevate all four subspecies to the rank of full species. Moreover, based on morphological and mitochdondrial differentiation, we describe a new species, Camaena poyuensis sp. n. from Guangxi, China. The new species conspicuously differs from its sibling species C. cicatricosa in having a larger and more depressed shell, a completely covered umbilicus, more or less purplish peristome, an obtuse angle at the junction of the basal and columellar lip, longer pedunculus of the bursa copulatrix, thicker epiphallus and penis, and short conic verge. Previous named species are also redescribed on their shell and anatomical characters, because the original descriptions are uninformative.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Systematics of testudacarine torrent mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Torrenticolidae) with descriptions of 13 new species from North America
Thirteen new species of North American Testudacarus (Torrenticolidae: Testudacarinae) are described: T. deceptivus O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. hitchensi O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. harrisi O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. dennetti O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. dawkinsi O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. radwellae O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. kirkwoodae O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. hyporhynchus O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. smithi O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. rollerae O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. elongatus O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., T. rectangulatus O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n., and T. oblongatus O’Neill & Dowling, sp. n. Testudacarus vulgaris Habeeb, 1954 is resurrected from synonymy with T. minimus and redescribed. Debsacarus (Habeeb, 1961), Testudacarus americanus Marshall, 1943, and T. minimus Marshall, 1943 are redescribed. All redescriptions are from original types. Species delimination was accomplished through examination of morphology, biogeography, and molecular phylogenetics of the barcoding region of COI. Other species are addressed and a key to world species is presented. For Testudacarinae, this represents the first published: 1) descriptions from multiple specimens (i.e. intraspecific variation); 2) colored photographs; 3) explicit illustrations and discussion of sexual dimorphism within the subfamily; 4) genetic data. A comprehensive testudacarine reference list is also included.
["Hydrachnidiae"]

Four new species of Trigonopterus Fauvel from the island of New Britain (Coleoptera, Curculionidae)
The hyperdiverse genus Trigonopterus has its center of diversity in Melanesia, but only a single species is recorded from the Bismarck Archipelago to date. Here we describe four new species from the island of New Britain: T. chewbacca sp. n., T. obsidianus sp. n., T. puncticollis sp. n. and T. silaliensis sp. n. We provide cytochrome oxidase subunit I (cox1) sequences of the new species and a key to all five species known from the Bismarck Archipelago.
["Bismarck Archipelago"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

First record of Streptosyllis nunezi Faulwetter et al., 2008 (Annelida, Syllidae) from the United Kingdom, and amendment to the genus Streptosyllis Webster & Benedict, 1884
During a benthic survey of a Marine Conservation Zone located on the Skerries Bank in the English Channel off the south-west coast of England, three specimens of Streptosyllis nunezi Faulwetter et al., 2008 were found. This is the second ever record of the species after its original description, and the first record from waters around the U.K. and a significant northerly range extension for a species previously only recorded from the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean Sea. A single simple ventral chaeta in each of the two posterior-most segments was discovered in this and two other species of Streptosyllis Webster & Benedict, 1884. The generic definition of Streptosyllis is emended to include this feature previously unknown for the genus, and an updated key to the Streptosyllis found in UK waters is provided.
["Polychaetes"]

Iranian terrestrial isopods of the family Cylisticidae Verhoeff, 1949 with a description of a new species (Isopoda, Oniscidea)
In the present study, the terrestrial isopods of the family Cylisticidae in Iran are investigated. Geographical distributions of two formerly reported species from Iran, namely Cylisticoides angulatus Schmalfuss, 2003 and C. rotundifrons (Schmalfuss, 1986), are expanded. Cylisticus masalicus sp. n. is described and its diagnostic characters are figured.
["Oniscidea"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Ancient Himalayan wolf (Canis lupus chanco) lineage in Upper Mustang of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal
The taxonomic status of the wolf (Canis lupus) in Nepal’s Trans-Himalaya is poorly understood. Recent genetic studies have revealed the existence of three lineages of wolves in the Indian sub-continent. Of these, the Himalayan wolf, Canis lupus chanco, has been reported to be the most ancient lineage historically distributed within the Nepal Himalaya. These wolves residing in the Trans-Himalayan region have been suggested to be smaller and very different from the European wolf. During October 2011, six fecal samples suspected to have originated from wolves were collected from Upper Mustang in the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal. DNA extraction and amplification of the mitochondrial (mt) control region (CR) locus yielded sequences from five out of six samples. One sample matched domestic dog sequences in GenBank, while the remaining four samples were aligned within the monophyletic and ancient Himalayan wolf clade. These four sequences which matched each other, were new and represented a novel Himalayan wolf haplotype. This result confirms that the endangered ancient Himalayan wolf is extant in Nepal. Detailed genomic study covering Nepal’s entire Himalayan landscape is recommended in order to understand their distribution, taxonomy and, genetic relatedness with other wolves potentially sharing the same landscape.
["Himalayan wolf"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Sinularia polydactyla (Ehrenberg, 1834) (Cnidaria, Octocorallia) re-examined, with the description of a new species
Sinularia polydactyla (Ehrenberg, 1834) is re-described and a lectotype assigned. This led to examination of related material from various Indo-Pacific regions. Consequently, Sinularia levi sp. n. is described from Eilat, Israel (Gulf of Aqaba, northern Red Sea) and S. compressa Tixier-Durivault, 1945 and S. candidula Verseveldt and Benayahu, 1983 are synonymized with S. polydactyla. Additional specimens identified in the literature as S. polydactyla are provisionally reassigned to other taxa.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

A new species of Bothriembryon (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Bothriembryontidae) from south-eastern Western Australia
Bothriembryon sophiarum sp. n. is described, based on shell and anatomical morphology, from the coastal area of south-easternmost Western Australia. This is the first description of a new extant Australian bothriembryontid in 33 years. The shell of B. sophiarum is slender with a unique teleoconch sculpture. It is found in low coastal scrub on cliff edges and escarpments and because of its restricted distribution, qualifies as a short range endemic.
["Western Australia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species of Anomognathus and new Canadian and provincial records of aleocharine rove beetles from Alberta, Canada (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
A new species, Anomognathus athabascensis Klimaszewski, Hammond & Langor, sp. n., and nine new provincial records including one new country record of aleocharine beetles are presented for the province of Alberta. Diagnostics, images of habitus and genital structures, distribution, natural history information and new locality data are provided for the newly recorded species. A checklist for all recorded aleocharines from Alberta is updated.

Milnesium minutum and Milnesium sandrae, two new species of Milnesiidae (Tardigrada, Eutardigrada, Apochela)
Two new species of Milnesium are described, Milnesium minutum sp. n. from Sicily and Milnesium sandrae sp. n. from the Hawaiian Archipelago. The body size of Milnesium minutum is the smallest of the known species of the genus. The stylet supports are inserted on the buccal tube at 63–66% of its length and the claws have a [3-3]-[3-3] configuration. Milnesium sandrae has stylet supports inserted on the buccal tube at 58–60.5% of its length, a [3-3]-[3-3] claw configuration, and the percent ratio between the secondary claw and primary claw length on legs I–III (78.6%–85.5%) clearly higher than on legs IV (70.5%–71.4%). With the description of these two new species, the number of species in the genus is increased to 31.
["Tardigrada"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

Revision of the Neotropical diving beetle genus Hydrodessus J. Balfour-Browne, 1953 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Bidessini)
The Neotropical diving beetle genus Hydrodessus J. Balfour-Browne, 1953 (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae: Hydroporinae: Bidessini) is revised. Thirty species are recognized. The following new species are described: H. bimaculatus sp. n. (Venezuela), H. brevis sp. n. (Venezuela), H. concolorans sp. n. (Venezuela), H. continuus sp. n. (Venezuela), H. disjunctus sp. n. (Suriname), H. fasciatus sp. n. (Brazil), H. imparilis sp. n. (Ecuador), H. keithi sp. n. (Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador), H. kurti sp. n. (Suriname), H. kylei sp. n. (Suriname, Venezuela), H. laetus sp. n. (Venezuela), H. latotibialis sp. n. (Peru), H. maculatus sp. n. (Guyana, Venezuela), H. morsus sp. n. (Venezuela), H. palus sp. n. (Venezuela), and H. tenuatus sp. n. (Suriname). The following new synonyms are established: H. fragrans Spangler, 1985 = H. biguttatus (Guignot, 1957) syn. n. and H. robinae Spangler, 1985 = H. octospilus (Guignot, 1957), syn. n. One species is transferred from Hydrodessus to Amarodytes Régimbart, A. soekhnandanae (Makhan, 1994), comb. n. Habitus photographs (dorsal and lateral) and photos of the ventral surfaces are provided for most species. Line drawings of male and female genitalia and other diagnostic features are also provided along with distribution maps.
["Water beetles"]

Stream ichthyofauna of the Tapajós National Forest, Pará, Brazil
The fish fauna of freshwater streams in the Tapajos National Forest was surveyed and a list of species is presented. The sampling was conducted from 2012 to 2013 during the dry season. Fish were collected with dip nets and seine nets in 22 streams of 1st to 3rd order. Sampling resulted in 3035 specimens belonging to 117 species, 27 families and six orders. The most abundant species were Bryconops aff. melanurus, Hemigrammus belottii, and Hemigrammus analis. Four undescribed species were recognized, one of which is known only from the area of this study. A significant dissimilarity was observed in fish species composition among drainage systems. This is the first survey of the stream ichthyofauna in the Tapajós National Forest, and it presents relevant information for future studies and decision-making in the management and conservation of fish fauna in this conservation unit.

A review of unusual species of Cotesia (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) with the first tergite narrowing at midlength
The unusual species of Cotesia (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) with the first tergite narrowing at midlength are reviewed. One new species, Cotesia trabalae sp. n. is described from India and compared with Cotesia pistrinariae (Wilkinson) from Africa, the only other species sharing the same character of all the described species worldwide. The generic placement of these two species, based on molecular and morphological analyses as well as parasitoid biology is discussed.
["Cotesia"]

Systematics of the seed beetle genus Decellebruchus Borowiec, 1987 (Coleoptera, Bruchidae)
Keys to species, descriptions, synonymy, host plants, and geographical distributions are presented for the three species in the genus Decellebruchus (Borowiec 1987); of those, D. walker (Pic 1912) was the only species included at the time of the genus denomination, D. atrolineatus (Pic 1921) is transferred to this genus, and D. lunae is described as a new species. The shortest and most parsimonious phylogenetic tree for genera with pectinate antennae had a length of 33, consistency index 87, and retention index 81.
["Seed beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

First description of the male of Hitobia makotoi Kamura, 2011 (Araneae, Gnaphosidae)
The male of Hitobia makotoi Kamura, 2011 is described for the first time from Hengshan Mountain, Hunan Province, China. This species was originally described from Amami-ôshim Island, Japan and has been recorded from Gaoligong Mountain, Yunnan Province, China. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of both sexes of this species are given.

A molecular approach to the genus Alburnoides using COI sequences data set and the description of a new species, A. damghani, from the Damghan River system (the Dasht-e Kavir Basin, Iran) (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae)
The molecular status of nine species of the genus Alburnoides from different river drainages in Iran and additionally by seven species from Europe was assessed. mtDNA COI gene sequences from freshly collected specimens and available NCBI data revealed four major phylogenetic lineages. Based on the results, a distinct taxon from the Cheshmeh Ali (Ali Spring), a Damghan River tributary in the endorheic Dasht-e Kavir basin, northern Iran, which is the closest sister to Alburnoides namaki (Namak Lake basin) + A. coadi (Nam River in the endorheic Dasht-e Kavir basin) is considered as a new species, Alburnoides damghani sp. n. It is distinguished from other Alburnoides species in Iran by a combination of character states including: a weakly-developed, variably-scaled, ventral keel from completely scaleless to completely scaled, a short snout with the tip of the mouth cleft on a level with the lower margin of the pupil or slightly lower, a small eye (eye horizontal diameter slightly to markedly less than interorbital width), commonly 8½ branched dorsal-fin rays, commonly 11−12½ branched anal-fin rays, 40−46(47) total lateral-line scales, 2.5–4.2 or 2.5–4.1 pharyngeal teeth, gill rakers short and widely spaced, 6−8 in total, 39−41 (commonly 40), total vertebrae, (19)20(21) abdominal vertebrae, 19−21 (most commonly 20) caudal vertebrae, abdominal vertebral region most commonly equal to or longer than caudal region, and most common vertebral formulae 20+20 and 21+19.
["Freshwater fishes"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

The tiger beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Cicindelinae) of Israel and adjacent lands
Based on field studies, museums collections and literature sources, the current knowledge of the tiger beetle fauna of Israel and adjacent lands is presented. In Israel eight species occur, one of them with two subspecies, while in the Sinai Peninsula nine species of tiger beetles are now known. In the combined regions seven genera from two tribes were found. The Rift Valley with six cicindelids species is the most specious region of Israel. Cylindera contorta valdenbergi and Cicindela javeti azari have localized distributions and should be considered regional endemics. A similarity analysis of the tiger beetles faunas of different regions of Israel and the Sinai Peninsula reveal two clusters of species. The first includes the Great Rift Valley and most parts of the Sinai Peninsula, and the second incorporates most regions of Israel together with Central Sinai Foothills. Five distinct adult phenological groups of tiger beetles can be distinguished in these two clusters: active all-year (three species), spring-fall (five species), summer (two species), spring-summer (one species) and spring (one species). The likely origins of the tiger beetle fauna of this area are presented. An annotated list and illustrated identification key of the Cicindelinae of Israel and adjacent lands are provided.

Contribution to the knowledge of Afrotropical Dryinidae, Embolemidae and Sclerogibbidae (Hymenoptera), with description of new species from Central African Republic and Uganda
An updated checklist of Dryinidae, Embolemidae and Sclerogibbidae from Central African Republic and Uganda is presented. The following new species of Dryinidae are described: from Central African Republic: Anteon dzanganum sp. n. (Anteoninae); from Uganda: Anteon granulatum sp. n., A. kibalense sp. n., A. makererense sp. n., A. mubfs sp. n. (Anteoninae); Bocchus kibalensis sp. n. (Bocchinae); Dryinus kibalus sp. n. (Dryininae); Gonatopus kanyawarus sp. n. (Gonatopodinae). The following species have been recorded for the first time from Central African Republic: Embolemidae: Ampulicomorpha madecassa Olmi, 1999a; Embolemus capensis Olmi, 1997; Dryinidae: Aphelopus mediocarinatus (Benoit, 1951d), A. testaceus Olmi, 1991, A. wittei Benoit, 1951c (Aphelopinae); Anteon cautum Olmi, 1994a, A. evertsi Olmi, 1989, A. gutturnium (Benoit, 1951b), A. inflatrix Benoit, 1951b, A. kivuanum (Benoit, 1951c), A. semajanna Olmi, Copeland & Guglielmino, 2015, A. zairense Benoit, 1951d (Anteoninae); Pseudodryinus townesi (Olmi, 1984) (Dryininae); Echthrodelphax tauricus Ponomarenko, 1970, Gonatopus camerounensis Olmi, 2011, G. kolyadai Olmi, 2007b, Neodryinus antiquus Benoit, 1954, N. tussaci Olmi, 2004b (Gonatopodinae); Sclerogibbidae: Probethylus callani Richards, 1939b; Sclerogibba algerica Benoit, 1963, S. rapax Olmi, 2005a. The following species have been recorded for the first time from Uganda: Embolemidae: Ampulicomorpha magna Olmi, 1996; Dryinidae: Anteon cautum Olmi, 1994a, A. fisheri Olmi, 2003, A. hoyoi Olmi, 1984, A. kivuanum (Benoit, 1951c), A. townesi Olmi, 1984, A. zairense Benoit, 1951d (Anteoninae); Bocchus bini Olmi, 1984 (Bocchinae); Dryinus saussurei (Ceballos, 1936) (Dryininae); Echthrodelphax migratorius Benoit, 1954, Neodryinus tussaci Olmi, 2004b (Gonatopodinae). The following further species has been recorded for the first time from Mali: Sclerogibba algerica Benoit, 1963 (Sclerogibbidae); from Ivory Coast: Adryinus oweni Olmi, 1984 (Gonatopodinae); from Cameroon and South Africa: Gonatopus operosus Olmi, 1993 (Gonatopodinae); from Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia: Neodryinus antiquus Benoit, 1954 (Gonatopodinae); from South Africa: Anteon striatum Olmi, 2005b (Anteoninae). Including the above new records, 23 species of Dryinidae (previously six), two species of Embolemidae (previously none) and three species of Sclerogibbidae (previously two) are now known from Central African Republic. For Uganda, 39 species of Dryinidae (previously 23), one species of Embolemidae (previously none) and four species of Sclerogibbidae (previously four) are now known. Additional new faunistic records are provided for Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Mali, South Africa and Zambia.
["Chrysidoidea"]

The millipede family Cryptodesmidae in Indochina (Diplopoda, Polydesmida)
In addition to two species of the diplopod family Cryptodesmidae already reported from Indochina, Trichopeltis kometis (Attems, 1938) and Ophrydesmus anichkini Golovatch, 2015, the fauna of that region is supplemented by three species: Niponia nodulosa Verhoeff, 1931, a millipede hitherto known only from southern Japan and Taiwan, is now recorded from Vietnam; Trichopeltis cavernicola sp. n. from Laos, the sixth species in that tropical Asian genus, is the first presumed troglobite to be described amongst the Asian cryptodesmids and shows several distinct troglomorphic features; and Circulocryptus gen. n., monobasic, which joins the tribe Dyakryptini, but differs from all three contribal genera (two monobasic from Borneo, and another, oligotypic, from New Guinea) primarily in the gonopods of C. faillei sp. n., from Vietnam, being especially elaborate and subcircular, the telopodites strongly twisted, and the solenomere lying much more basally.

Two new species of the ground beetle subgenus Sadonebria Ledoux & Roux, 2005 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Nebria) from Japan and first description of larvae of the subgenus
Sadonebria Ledoux & Roux, 2005 is one of the more diverse subgenera of the genus Nebria Latreille, 1802 in East Asia, and its taxonomy remains unrevised at the subgeneric and specific levels. In this paper, two new species of this subgenus are described from Japan. Nebria quinquelobata sp. n. is described from Mt. Myôkô and is externally similar to Nebria saeviens Bates, 1883, to which specimens of this new species previously had been assigned. Nebria yatsugatakensis sp. n. is described from the Yatsugatake Mountains and is externally similar to locally adjacent species that had been recognized as Nebria sadona Bates, 1883 and were recently revealed as separate species. Both new species are distinguished by morphological (the shape of the endophallus) and morphometric (geometric morphometrics of the pronotum and aedeagus) features. For N. yatsugatakensis, the morphology of all larval instars is described based on specimens reared from eggs laid by collected adults. These results, together with previous studies of the species-level taxonomy of Sadonebria and larval morphology of other Nebria subgenera, suggest (i) the utility of geometric morphometrics in species-level taxonomy; (ii) the importance of larval secondary setae in the subgeneric taxonomy of the genus Nebria; and (iii) the presence of further cryptic species in Sadonebria.
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Rediscovery of Achipteria setulosa, with remarks on Japanese species of Achipteriidae and the proposal of species-groups (Acari, Oribatida)
The first detailed description of adults of Achipteria setulosa Golosova, 1981 with illustrations are provided, based on materials from central Japan. This species is placed in the subgenus Achipteria (Izuachipteria) Balogh & Mahunka, 1979. In addition, the species grouping of the known species in the genus Achipteria is briefly discussed, and three species-groups are proposed based on the structure of the lamellar complex. Furthermore, data on distribution, diversity and habitat ecology of all known species of Achipteriidae in Japan are presented, and a key is provided for the identification of recorded species in this country. The majority of achipteriid species found in Japan are known to be widely distributed in the vast areas of the northern hemisphere; only two species have restricted distributions in Japan. Most species of Achipteriidae in Japan are inhabitants of the litter of various forests, such as natural broad-leaved forests in high mountainous areas, soils of grasslands, wetlands and mosses growing on rocks.
["Achipteria"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Six new species of dragon millipedes, genus Desmoxytes Chamberlin, 1923, mostly from caves in China (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Six new species of Desmoxytes are described from southern China: D. laticollis sp. n., D. simplipoda sp. n., and D. similis sp. n., all three from caves in Guangdong Province; D. phasmoides sp. n. also from a cave, and both epigean D. spiniterga sp. n. and D. variabilis sp. n., the latter trio from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. A modified key to all 20 Desmoxytes species currently known to occur in China is given.
["Desmoxytes"]

An unexpected new species of the genus Pseudopoda (Araneae, Sparassidae, Heteropodinae) from the Western Ghats in India
A new species of the genus Pseudopoda is described from India: Pseudopoda ashcharya sp. n. Males are characterised by the absence of the conductor and females are unique within the genus in having the lateral lobes of their epigyne fused. The systematic relationship of the new species is discussed referring to its isolated occurrence in the Western Ghats.

Review of the Psychodinae from Mallorca, Spain, with description of Pericoma unipennata, sp. n. (Diptera, Psychodidae)
We review the Psychodinae of Mallorca, recognising fifteen species based on recent collections and available literature. Previously unpublished data is presented for eleven species, of which Neoarisemus ibericus Wagner, 1978, Mormia tenebricosa (Vaillant, 1954), Clogmia albipunctata (Williston, 1893), Lepiseodina rothschildi (Eaton, 1913), Paramormia ustulata (Walker, 1856), Philosepedon pyrenaicus Vaillant, 1974 and Psychoda (Psycha) grisescens Tonnoir, 1922 are first records for Mallorca. An old record of Pericoma trifasciata (Meigen, 1804) is considered doubtful. Pericoma unipennata sp. n is described and illustrated based on a male collected at Deía. Distributional data are reviewed for all newly recorded species. Based on the Psychodinae fauna, the zoogeographical affinities of Mallorca are briefly discussed.
["Moth flies"]
["Themes in Literature Analysis", "Educational Methods and Media Use", "Educator Training and Historical Pedagogy"]

Description of two new species of the Exocelina broschii-group from Papua New Guinea, with revision and key to all representatives of this species group (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Two new species of Exocelina Broun, 1886 from Papua New Guinea are described herein: E. mondmillensis sp. n. and E. pseudomarinae sp. n. They are placed into the E. broschii-group based on the shovel/fork-like ventral sclerites of their median lobe. While the former has rather distinct combination of the morphological characters (inconspicuous dorsal punctation, thin apex of the median lobe and ventral sclerite of the median lobe with two tips of different length), the latter is very similar to already described species E. marinae (Shaverdo, Sagata & Balke, 2005). All described species of the group are revised and a key to their identification is provided. Important diagnostic characters (habitus, color, protarsomeres 4–5, median lobes, and parameres) are illustrated. Data on the distribution of all species of the group are given showing that its representatives occur only in Papua New Guinea and most of them are widely distributed in it central part.
["Exocelina broschii-group"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Tachysphex austriacus Kohl, 1892 and T. pompiliformis (Panzer, 1804) (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae) are a complex of fourteen species in Europe and Turkey
Tachysphex pompiliformis (Panzer, 1804) and T. austriacus Kohl, 1892 species subgroups belong to the T. pompiliformis species group, and both subgroups consist of morphologically similar species. The T. austriacus Kohl species subgroup comprises four species in Europe and Turkey. For this subgroup, differential diagnoses of T. austriacus and T. prismaticus Straka, 2005 are presented, and T. hungaricus sp. n. from Hungary and T. smissenae sp. n. from Spain, France and Turkey are described. The T. pompiliformis species subgroup consists of ten species from Europe and Turkey. For this subgroup, differential diagnoses of T. ferrugineus Pulawski, 1967 and T. opacus F. Morawitz, 1893, as well as the differential diagnosis and redescription of T. pompiliformis, are presented. Tachysphex dimidiatus (Panzer, 1809), T. jokischianus (Panzer, 1809) and T. nigripennis (Spinola, 1808) are resurrected from synonymy with T. pompiliformis and redescribed. Neotypes of T. dimidiatus (Panzer) and T. nigripennis (Spinola) are designed. Tachysphex bohemicus sp. n. from the Czech Republic; T. cretensis sp. n. from Crete, Greece; T. nobilis sp. n. from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Turkey; and T. punctipleuris sp. n. from Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Slovenia and Turkey are described. Identification keys to all species from T. pompiliformis and T. austriacus species subgroups known from Europe and Turkey are presented.

Paguristione uniuropodus, a new genus and a new species of Pseudioninae infesting hermit crabs from China (Crustacea, Isopoda, Bopyridae)
Paguristione uniuropodus gen. n., sp. n. infests Paguristes sp. in the East China Sea. Paguristione gen. n. differs from the closely related genera Pseudione and Pagurion by its females having indistinct lateral plates on the last two pleomeres and its male with a long tapering pleon of six pleomeres, lacking both pleopoda and uropoda.
["Paguristes"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Revision of the family Chalcididae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) from Vietnam, with the description of 13 new species
A total of 16 genera and 68 species of Chalcididae of Vietnam are taxonomically treated. Thirteen new species are described; the remaining 55 species are keyed, redescribed or provided with a diagnosis. Among these 37 species and eleven genera are recorded for the first time from Vietnam. The thirteen new species are: Antrocephalus neogalleriae Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n.; Brachymeria neowiebesina Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., B. semirusula Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., Dirhinus neoclaviger Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., Epitranus narendrani van Achterberg, sp. n., E. neonigriceps Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., Heydoniella vietnamensis Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., Megachalcis vietnamicus Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., Notaspidium vietnamicum Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., Oxycoryphe neotenax Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., Sthulapada neopadata Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., S. vietnamensis Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n., and Tanycoryphus masii Narendran & van Achterberg, sp. n. The newly recorded genera are: Antrocephalus Kirby, 1883; Haltichella Spinola, 1811; Heydoniella Narendran, 2003; Hockeria Walker, 1834; Kriechbaumerella Dalla Torre, 1894; Notaspidium Dalla Torre, 1897; Oxycoryphe Kriechbaumer, 1894; Psilochalcis Kieffer, 1904; Sthulapada Narendran, 1989; Tanycorphus Cameron, 1905, and Trigonura Sichel, 1865. The following known species are recorded for the first time from Vietnam: Antrocephalus decipiens (Masi, 1929); A. lugubris (Masi, 1932); A. maculipennis (Cameron, 1905); A. nasutus (Holmgren, 1869); A. sepyra (Walker, 1846); A. validicornis (Holmgren, 1868); Brachymeria alternipes (Walker, 1871); B. aurea (Girault, 1915); B. coxodentata Joseph, Narendran & Joy, 1972; B. euploeae (Westwood, 1837); B. hime Habu, 1960; B. jambolana Gahan, 1942; B. kamijoi Habu, 1960; B. lugubris (Walker, 1871); B. marmonti (Girault, 1924); B. minuta (Linnaeus, 1767); B. scutellocarinata Joseph, Narendran & Joy, 1972; B. shansiensis Habu, 1961; B. taiwana (Matsumura, 1910); Dirhinus anthracia Walker, 1846; D. claviger Bouček & Narendran, 1981; Epitranus albipennis Walker, 1874; E. ater Bouček, 1982; E. gauldi Bouček, 1982; E. oxytelus Bouček, 1982; E. ramnathi (Mani & Dubey, 1973); Haltichella delhensis Roy & Farooqi, 1984; H. nipponensis Habu, 1960; Hockeria bangalorica Narendran, 1989; H. guptai Narendran, 1989; Kriechbaumerella ayyari (Gahan, 1919); K. cordigaster Roy & Farooqi, 1984; K. destructor (Waterston, 1922); K. nepalensis Narendran, 1989; Oxycoryphe scutellatus Narendran, 1989; Psilochalcis carinigena (Cameron, 1907), and Trigonura luzonensis Narendran, 1987. Brachymeria calopeplae Joseph, Narendran & Joy, 1972, is treated as a valid species.
["Chalcididae"]

Annotated catalogue of the Tachinidae (Insecta, Diptera) of the Afrotropical Region, with the description of seven new genera
The Tachinidae of the Afrotropical Region are catalogued and seven genera and eight species are newly described. There are 237 genera and 1126 species recognized, of which 101 genera and 1043 species are endemic to the region. The catalogue is based on examination of the primary literature comprising about 525 references as well as numerous name-bearing types and other specimens housed in collections. Taxa are arranged hierarchically and alphabetically under the categories of subfamily, tribe, genus, subgenus (where recognized), species, and rarely subspecies. Nomenclatural information is provided for all genus-group and species-group names, including lists of synonyms (mostly restricted to Afrotropical taxa) and name-bearing type data. Species distributions are recorded by country within the Afrotropical Region and by larger geographical divisions outside the region. Additional information is given in the form of notes, numbering about 300 in the catalogue section. Seven genera and eight species are described as new: Afrophylax Cerretti & O’Hara with type species Sturmia aureiventris Villeneuve, 1910, gen. n. (Exoristinae, Eryciini); Austrosolieria Cerretti & O’Hara with type species Austrosolieria londti Cerretti & O’Hara, gen. n. and sp. n. (South Africa) and Austrosolieria freidbergi Cerretti & O’Hara, sp. n. (Malawi) (Tachininae, Leskiini); Carceliathrix Cerretti & O’Hara with type species Phorocera crassipalpis Villeneuve, 1938, gen. n. (Exoristinae, Eryciini); Filistea Cerretti & O’Hara with type species Viviania aureofasciata Curran, 1927, gen. n. and Filistea verbekei Cerretti & O’Hara, sp. n. (Cameroon, D.R. Congo, Uganda) (Exoristinae, Blondeliini); Mesnilotrix Cerretti & O’Hara with type species Dexiotrix empiformis Mesnil, 1976, gen. n. (Dexiinae, Dexiini); Myxophryxe Cerretti & O’Hara with type species Phorocera longirostris Villeneuve, 1938, gen. n., Myxophryxe murina Cerretti & O’Hara, sp. n. (South Africa), Myxophryxe regalis Cerretti & O’Hara, sp. n. (South Africa), and Myxophryxe satanas Cerretti & O’Hara, sp. n. (South Africa) (Exoristinae, Goniini); and Stiremania Cerretti & O’Hara with type species Stiremania karoo Cerretti & O’Hara, gen. n. and sp. n. (South Africa), and Stiremania robusta Cerretti & O’Hara, sp. n. (South Africa) (Exoristinae, Goniini). Paraclara Bezzi, 1908 is transferred from the Cylindromyiini to the Hermyini, comb. n. Sarrorhina Villeneuve, 1936 is transferred from the Minthoini to the Graphogastrini, comb. n. Three genera are newly recorded from the Afrotropical Region: Madremyia Townsend, 1916 (Eryciini); Paratrixa Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1891 (Blondeliini); and Simoma Aldrich, 1926 (Goniini). Three genera previously recorded from the Afrotropical Region are no longer recognized from the region: Calozenillia Townsend, 1927 (Palaearctic, Oriental and Australasian regions); Eurysthaea Robineau-Desvoidy, 1863 (Palaearctic, Oriental and Australasian regions); and Trixa Meigen, 1824 (Palaearctic and Oriental regions). Two species are newly recorded from the Afrotropical Region: Amnonia carmelitana Kugler, 1971 (Ethiopia, Kenya); and Simoma grahami Aldrich, 1926 (Namibia). Three species previously recorded from the Afrotropical Region are no longer recognized from the region: Euthera peringueyi Bezzi, 1925 (Oriental Region); Hamaxia incongrua Walker, 1860 (Palaearctic, Oriental and Australasian regions); Leucostoma tetraptera (Meigen, 1824) (Palaearctic Region). New replacement names are proposed for five preoccupied names of Afrotropical species: Billaea rubida O’Hara & Cerretti for Phorostoma rutilans Villeneuve, 1916, preoccupied in the genus Billaea Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 by Musca rutilans Fabricius, 1781, nom. n.; Cylindromyia braueri O’Hara & Cerretti for Ocyptera nigra Villeneuve, 1918, preoccupied in the genus Cylindromyia Meigen, 1803 by Glossidionophora nigra Bigot, 1885, nom. n.; Cylindromyia rufohumera O’Hara & Cerretti for Ocyptera scapularis Villeneuve, 1944, preoccupied in the genus Cylindromyia Meigen, 1803 by Ocyptera scapularis Loew, 1845, nom. n.; Phytomyptera longiarista O’Hara & Cerretti for Phytomyzoneura aristalis Villeneuve, 1936, preoccupied in the genus Phytomyptera Rondani, 1845 by Phasiostoma aristalis Townsend, 1915, nom. n.; and Siphona (Siphona) pretoriana O’Hara & Cerretti for Siphona laticornis Curran, 1941, preoccupied in the genus Siphona Meigen, 1803 by Actia laticornis Malloch, 1930, nom. n. New type species fixations are made under the provisions of Article 70.3.2 of the ICZNCode for two genus-group names: Lydellina Villeneuve, 1916, type species newly fixed as Lydellina villeneuvei Townsend, 1933 (valid genus name); and Sericophoromyia Austen, 1909, type species newly fixed as Tachina quadrata Wiedemann, 1830 (synonym of Winthemia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830). Lectotypes are designated for the following nine nominal species based on examination of one or more syntypes of each: Degeeria crocea Villeneuve, 1950; Degeeria semirufa Villeneuve, 1950; Erycia brunnescens Villeneuve, 1934; Exorista oculata Villeneuve, 1910; Kiniatilla tricincta Villeneuve, 1938; Myxarchiclops caffer Villeneuve, 1916; Ocyptera linearis Villeneuve, 1936; Peristasisea luteola Villeneuve, 1934; and Phorocera crassipalpis Villeneuve, 1938. The following four genus-group names that were previously treated as junior synonyms or subgenera are recognized as valid generic names: Bogosiella Villeneuve, 1923, status revived; Dyshypostena Villeneuve, 1939, status revived; Perlucidina Mesnil, 1952, status revived; and Thelymyiops Mesnil, 1950, status n. The following six species-group names that were previously treated as junior synonyms are recognized as valid species names: Besseria fossulata Bezzi, 1908, status revived; Degeeria cinctella Villeneuve, 1950, status revived (as Medina cinctella (Villeneuve)); Nemoraea miranda intacta Villeneuve, 1916, status revived (as Nemoraea intacta Villeneuve); Succingulum exiguum Villeneuve, 1935, status revived (as Trigonospila exigua (Villeneuve)); Wagneria rufitibia abbreviata Mesnil, 1950, status n. (as Periscepsia abbreviata (Mesnil)); and Wagneria rufitibia nudinerva Mesnil, 1950, status n. (as Periscepsia nudinerva (Mesnil)). The following 25 new or revived combinations are proposed: Afrophylax aureiventris (Villeneuve, 1910), comb. n.; Blepharella orbitalis (Curran, 1927), comb. n.; Bogosiella pomeroyi Villeneuve, 1923, comb. revived; Brachychaetoides violacea (Curran, 1927), comb. n.; Carceliathrix crassipalpis (Villeneuve, 1938), comb. n.; Charitella whitmorei (Cerretti, 2012), comb. n.; Dyshypostena edwardsi (van Emden, 1960), comb. n.; Dyshypostena tarsalis Villeneuve, 1939, comb. revived; Estheria buccata (van Emden, 1947), comb. n.; Estheria surda (Curran, 1933), comb. n.; Filistea aureofasciata (Curran, 1927), comb. n.; Madremyia setinervis (Mesnil, 1968), comb. n.; Mesnilotrix empiformis (Mesnil, 1976), comb. n.; Myxophryxe longirostris (Villeneuve, 1938), comb. n.; Nealsomyia chloronitens (Mesnil, 1977), comb. n.; Nealsomyia clausa (Curran, 1940), comb. n.; Nilea longicauda (Mesnil, 1970), comb. n.; Paratrixa aethiopica Mesnil, 1952, comb. revived; Paratrixa stammeri Mesnil, 1952, comb. revived; Perlucidina africana (Jaennicke, 1867), comb. n.; Perlucidina perlucida (Karsch, 1886), comb. revived; Prolophosia retroflexa (Villeneuve, 1944), comb. n.; Sturmia profana (Karsch, 1888), comb. n.; additionally, Ceromasia rufiventris Curran, 1927 is treated as an unplaced species of Goniini, comb. n. and Hemiwinthemia stuckenbergi Verbeke, 1973 is treated as an unplaced species of Leskiini, comb. n. New or revived generic and specific synonymies are proposed for the following nine names: Afrosturmia Curran, 1927 with Blepharella Macquart, 1851, syn. n.; Archiphania van Emden, 1945 with Catharosia Rondani, 1868, syn. revived; Besseria longicornis Zeegers, 2007 with Besseria fossulata Bezzi, 1908 (current name Besseria fossulata), syn. n.; Dexiomera Curran, 1933 with Estheria Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, syn. n.; Hemiwinthemia francoisi Verbeke, 1973 with Nemoraea capensis Schiner, 1868 (current name Smidtia capensis), syn. n.; Kinangopana van Emden, 1960 with Dyshypostena Villeneuve, 1939, syn. n.; Metadrinomyia Shima, 1980 with Charitella Mesnil, 1957, syn. n.; Phorocera majestica Curran, 1940 with Phorocera longirostris Villeneuve, 1938 (current name Myxophryxe longirostris), syn. n.; and Podomyia discalis Curran, 1939 with Antistasea fimbriata Bischof, 1904 (current name Antistasea fimbriata), syn. n.
["Afrotropical Region"]

A new species of Hypoaspis Canestrini (Acari, Mesostigmata, Laelapidae) associated with Oryctes sp. (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae) in Iran
A new species of the genus Hypoaspis Canestrini, Hypoaspis surenai sp. n., is described based on adult female specimens collected in association with Oryctes sp. (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in Taft, Yazd province, Iran.
["Gamasina"]

New cave-dwelling species of Tomoceridae from China, with a study on the pattern of mesothoracic bothriotricha in Tomocerinae (Collembola, Entomobryomorpha)
Two new troglobitic species of Tomoceridae are described from Guizhou and Guangxi provinces, China. Tomocerus tiani sp. n. resembles Tomocerus kinoshitai Yosii, 1954, Tomocerus caecus Yu & Deharveng, 2015 and Tomocerus similis Chen & Ma, 1997 but differs from them mainly in the body colour, the cephalic chaetotaxy and the number of manubrial pseudopores. Monodontocerus cinereus sp. n. is similar to Monodontocerus mulunensis Yu, Deharveng & Zhang, 2014 but is different from the latter in the body colour, the length of antennae, the number of ungual teeth and the chaetotaxy on Abd. III and Abd. IV. Special remarks are made on the mesothoracic bothriotricha in Tomocerinae.
["Tomocerus"]

Resolving the taxonomic conundrum in Graphoderus of the east Palearctic with a key to all species (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
The Holarctic diving beetle genus Graphoderus (Dytiscinae, Aciliini) contains relatively few and well-known species but these may still be difficult to identify based on external characters. A taxonomic problem in the eastern Palearctic was discovered that relates to the Palearctic G. zonatus (Hoppe, 1795) and the Nearctic G. perplexus Sharp, 1882. Based on qualitative and quantitative characters, especially on male genitalia which have been poorly studied in the past, it is shown that eastern Palearctic specimens identified by previous authors as either of the two species in fact belongs to a third species. The synonymized name G. elatus Sharp, 1882, is reinstated as a valid species (stat. n.) and a lectotype is designated from the mixed syntype series. The male genitalia of all known Graphoderus species have been examined and an illustrated identification key to the genus is provided. The three species in the complex of focus, G. elatus, G. zonatus and G. perplexus are found to have allopatric distributions; G. perplexus in the Nearctic region, G. zonatus in the west Palearctic region and eastwards to the Yenisei-Angara river and G. elatus east of the Yenisei-Angara river. All previous records of either G. zonatus or G. perplexus in the east Palearctic, east of the Yenisei-Angara river turned out to be misidentified G. elatus. This conclusion also brings with it that dimorphic females, thought only to be present in the single subspecies G. zonatus verrucifer (CR Sahlberg, 1824), proved to be present also in a second species, G. elatus. The dimorphic female forms is either with dorsally smooth elytra and pronotum or conspicuously granulated elytra and wrinkly pronotum. As has been shown in G. z. verrucifer there is a correlation between the occurrence of granulate female forms in a population and an increase in the number of adhesive discs on pro- and mesotarsus in males within G. elatus.
["Graphoderus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Free-living marine nematodes from San Antonio Bay (Río Negro, Argentina)
The dataset of free-living marine nematodes of San Antonio Bay is based on sediment samples collected in February 2009 during doctoral theses funded by CONICET grants. A total of 36 samples has been taken at three locations in the San Antonio Bay, Santa Cruz Province, Argentina on the coastal littoral at three tidal levels. This presents a unique and important collection for benthic biodiversity assessment of Patagonian nematodes as this area remains one of the least known regions. In total 7,743 specimens of free-living marine nematodes belonging to two classes, eight orders, 37 families, 94 genera and 104 species were collected.
["Nematoda"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Notes on Nilothauma Kieffer from Oriental China, with descriptions of three new species (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Three new species of Nilothauma Kieffer are described and figured from Oriental China: N. angustum sp. n. based on the male only, N. aristatum sp. n. based on the male, pupa and larva, and N. bilobatum sp. n. based on the male and pupa. In addition, new distribution records are given for N. japonicum Niitsuma, N. nojirimaculatum Sasa, N. hibaratertium Sasa, and N. acre Adam & Sæther. A key to known males of Nilothauma Kieffer in China is provided.
["Nilothauma"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Protagonista lugubris, a cockroach species new to China and its contribution to the revision of genus Protagonista, with notes on the taxonomy of Archiblattinae (Blattodea, Blattidae)
The blattid genus Protagonista Shelford, 1908, which is tentatively assigned to the subfamily Archiblattinae (= Planeticinae), is reported from China for the first time with illustrations and description of P. lugubris Shelford, 1908. It is a wood-dwelling and potentially a wood-feeding species. The male and female genitalia of Protagonista are described and illustrated for the first time. The species Protagonista pertristis Hanitsch, 1923 is revived from the synonymy of P. lugubris, and the remaining three nominal species that were also considered as synonyms of P. lugubris are now recognized as synonyms of P. pertristis. In agreement with Princis (1965), we propose that Eroblatta Shelford, 1910, a genus closely related to Protagonista, should be placed in the subfamily Archiblattinae rather than Blattinae. However, the taxonomy of Archiblattinae is problematic and awaits revision. Photos and a key to species of Protagonista and Eroblatta are provided, including photos of the holotypes of the synonymized nominal species. In addition, although Planeticinae is the senior synonym of Archiblattinae, the priority of the latter should be maintained since it is in prevailing usage based on the Article 40.2 in ICZN 4th edition.
["Planeticinae"]

Description of the larva of Mitosynum vockerothi Campbell, 1982, with remarks on the adult male genital morphology (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Oxytelinae)
The previously unknown larva of Mitosynum vockerothi Campbell, 1982, is described and illustrated. Adult male terminalia and genitalia are illustrated with line drawings. Adults of this species exhibit little difference in size or external morphology between males and females.
["Staphylinidae"]

A review of Canadian and Alaskan species of the genus Liogluta Thomson, and descriptions of three new species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Fourteen species of Liogluta Thomson are reported from Canada and Alaska. Three of these are described as new to science: Liogluta castoris Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n.; Liogluta microgranulosa Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n.; and Liogluta pseudocastoris Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n. The previously unknown male of L. gigantea Klimaszewski & Langor, L. quadricollis (Casey), L. wickhami (Casey), and female of L. granulosa Lohse are described, and illustrated. Liogluta aloconotoides Lohse is synonymized with Liogluta terminalis (Casey). New provincial and state records are provided for six Liogluta species. A key to species, revised distribution with new provincial records, and new natural history data are provided.
["Aleocharinae"]

Further contributions to the staphylinid fauna of New Brunswick, Canada, and the USA, with descriptions of two new Proteinus species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
This paper treats the discovery of new species and new records of Staphylinidae from the subfamilies Omaliinae, Proteininae, Tachyporinae, Oxytelinae, Scydmaeninae, Steninae, Euaesthetinae, Pseudopsinae, Paederinae, and Staphylininae for the province of New Brunswick and other provinces of Canada, and the USA. We report here two species new to science, three new North American records, nine new Canadian records, two new USA records, and 50 new provincial records. The following are the species new to science: Proteinus hughesi Webster & Davies, sp. n. and P. sweeneyi Webster & Klimaszewski, sp. n. (Proteininae). Sepedophilus immaculatus (Stephens) and Carpelimus erichsoni (Sharp), C. mundus (Sharp) are newly recorded from North America. New Canadian records are as follows: Carpelimus difficilis (Casey), C. gracilis (Mannerheim), C. lacustris (Notman), C. probus (Casey), C. pusillus (Gravenhorst), Carpelimus rivularis (Motschulsky), C. spretus (Casey), C. weissi (Notman) (Oxytelinae), and Edaphus lederi Eppelsheim (Euaesthetinae). This is the first record of the genus Edaphus for Canada. Bledius basalis LeConte and Carpelimus obesus (Kiesenwetter) (Oxytelinae) are removed from the faunal list of New Brunswick. Proteinus acadiensis Klimaszewski and P. pseudothomasi Klimaszewski are newly recorded from the USA and several provinces of Canada. Habitat data from New Brunswick are provided for most of the species treated in this contribution.

Further contributions to the Aleocharinae (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) fauna of New Brunswick and Canada including descriptions of 27 new species
This paper treats the discovery of new species and new records of aleocharine beetles for the province of New Brunswick. We report here 27 species new to science, one new North American record, six new Canadian records, and 29 new provincial records. The following are the new species: Acrotona brachyoptera Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. sphagnorum Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Atheta (Dimetrota) alphacrenuliventris Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (D.) chartersensis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (D.) cranberriensis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Atheta (D.) bubo Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (D.) mcalpinei Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (D.) makepeacei Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (D.) giguereae Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (D.) petitcapensis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (sensu lato) pseudoschistoglossa Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (sensu lato) sphagnicola Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Atheta (sensu lato) thujae Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (Pseudota) pseudoklagesi Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Philhygra atypicalis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Schistoglossa (Schistoglossa) pelletieri Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Thamiaraea corverae Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., T. claydeni Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Pleurotobia bourdonae Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., P. brunswickensis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Agaricomorpha vincenti Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Gyrophaena (Gyrophaena) aldersonae Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Oligota polyporicola Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., O. sevogle Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Hylota cryptica Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., Oxypoda sunpokeana Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., and Phloeopora gilbertae Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n. The spermatheca of Dinaraea curtipenis Klimaszewski & Webster, D. longipenis Klimaszewski & Webster, and D. subdepressa (Bernhauer) are illustrated for the first time. Male specimens of Mniusa odelli Klimaszewski & Webster were confirmed and are illustrated. Color habitus images and black and white images of the median lobe of the aedeagus, the spermatheca, and tergite and sternite VIII are provided for all species. New or additional habitat data are provided for most of the species treated in this contribution.

New Curculionoidea records from New Brunswick, Canada with an addition to the fauna of Nova Scotia
This paper presents 27 new records of Curculionoidea for the province of New Brunswick, Canada, including three species new to Canada, and 12 adventive species, as follows: Eusphryrus walshii LeConte, Choragus harrisii LeConte (newly recorded for Canada), Choragus zimmermanni LeConte (newly recorded for Canada) (Anthribidae); Cimberis pallipennis (Blatchley) (Nemonychidae); Nanophyes m. marmoratus (Goeze) (Brentidae); Procas lecontei Bedel (Brachyceridae); Anthonomus pusillus LeConte (newly recorded for Canada), Anthonomus (Cnemocyllus) pictus Blatchley, Archarius salicivorus (Paykull), Dorytomus hirtus LeConte, Ellescus bipunctatus (Linnaeus), Mecinus janthinus (Germar), Myrmex chevrolatii (Horn), Madarellus undulatus (Say), Microplontus campestris (Gyllenhal), Pelenomus waltoni (Boheman), Rhinoncus bruchoides (Herbst), Rhinoncus perpendicularis (Reich), Cossonus impressifrons Boheman, Cossonus pacificus Van Dyke, Rhyncolus knowltoni (Thatcher), Eubulus bisignatus (Say), Polydrusus cervinus (Linnaeus), Magdalis piceae Buchanan, Procryphalus mucronatus (LeConte), Ips grandicollis (Eichhoff), and Xyleborinus attenuatus (Blandford). Recent name changes in the genus Rhinoncus are applied to species known from New Brunswick. In addition, Orchestes alni (Linnaeus) is newly recorded from Nova Scotia.
["Anthribidae"]

Further contributions to the Coleoptera fauna of New Brunswick with an addition to the fauna of Nova Scotia, Canada
This paper treats 134 new records of Coleoptera for the province of New Brunswick, Canada from the following 41 families: Gyrinidae, Carabidae, Dytiscidae, Histeridae, Leiodidae, Scarabaeidae, Scirtidae, Buprestidae, Elmidae, Limnichidae, Heteroceridae, Ptilodactylidae, Eucnemidae, Throscidae, Elateridae, Lampyridae, Cantharidae, Dermestidae, Bostrichidae, Ptinidae, Cleridae, Melyridae, Monotomidae, Cryptophagidae, Silvanidae, Laemophloeidae, Nitidulidae, Endomychidae, Coccinellidae, Corylophidae, Latridiidae, Tetratomidae, Melandryidae, Mordellidae, Tenebrionidae, Mycteridae, Pyrochroidae, Aderidae, Scraptiidae, Megalopodidae, and Chrysomelidae. Among these, the following four species are newly recorded from Canada: Dirrhagofarsus ernae Otto, Muona & McClarin (Eucnemidae), Athous equestris (LeConte) (Elateridae), Ernobius opicus Fall (Ptinidae), and Stelidota coenosa Erichson (Nitidulidae). The Family Limnichidae is newly reported for New Brunswick, and one species is added to the fauna of Nova Scotia. Stephostethus productus Rosenhauer (Latridiidae), Tetratoma (Abstrulia) variegata Casey (Tetratomidae), and Chauliognathus marginatus (Fabricius) (Cantharidae) are removed from the faunal list of New Brunswick, and additional records of Lacconotus punctatus LeConte (Mycteridae) are presented and discussed. Lindgren funnel traps provided specimens for 104 (78%) of the species and were the sole source of specimens for 89 (66%) of the species reported here, suggesting they are a very useful tool for sampling Coleoptera fauna in the forests of New Brunswick.

The Ciidae (Coleoptera) of New Brunswick, Canada: New records and new synonyms
The Ciidae of New Brunswick, Canada are reviewed. Seventeen species are recorded for New Brunswick, including the following 10 species that are newly recorded for the province: Ceracis singularis (Dury), Ceracis thoracicornis (Ziegler), Cis angustus Hatch, Cis fuscipes Mellié, Cis horridulus Casey, Cis striatulus Mellié, Dolichocis laricinus (Mellié), Malacocis brevicollis (Casey), Orthocis punctatus (Mellié), and Plesiocis cribrum Casey. Additional locality data are provided for the following species previously known from the province: Cis americanus Mannerheim, Cis creberrimus Mellié, Cis levettei (Casey), Cis submicans Abeille de Perrin, Dolichocis manitoba Dury, Hadreule elongatula (Gyllenhal), and Octotemnus glabriculus (Gyllenhal). Seven synonyms are proposed here; Cis pistoria Casey with C. submicans Abeille de Perrin; C. fraternus Casey, C. macilentus Casey and C. striolatus Casey with C. striatulus Mellié; Dolichocis indistinctus Hatch with D. laricinus (Mellié); and Octotemnus denudatus Casey and O. laevis Casey with O. glabriculus (Gyllenhal). Lindgren funnel traps provided the majority of specimens for 15 of the 17 species reported from New Brunswick and were the sole source of specimens for seven of the 10 species newly reported here, suggesting they are a very useful tool for sampling Ciidae in the forests of New Brunswick.
["Ciidae"]

New records of Helophoridae, Hydrochidae, and Hydrophilidae (Coleoptera) from New Brunswick, Canada
The following three species of Helophoridae are newly recorded for New Brunswick, Canada: Helophorus (Kyphohelophorus) turberculatus Gyllenhal, Helophorus (Rhopaleloporus) oblongus LeConte, Helophorus (Rhopaleloporus) marginicollis Smetana. Hydrochus subcupreus Randall, family Hydrochidae, and the following 15 species of Hydrophilidae are newly reported for the province: Berosus fraternus LeConte, Berosus peregrinus (Herbst), Berosus sayi Hansen, Paracymus despectus (LeConte), Chaetarthria atra (LeConte), Cymbiodyta acuminata Fall, Cymbiodyta blanchardi Horn, Cymbiodyta minima Notman, Enochrus (Lumetus) hamiltoni Horn, Enochrus (Methydrus) consors (LeConte), Enochrus (Methydrus) consortus Green, Enochrus (Methydrus) pygmaeus nebulosus (Say), Cercyon (Cercyon) cinctus Smetana, Cercyon (Cercyon) herceus frigidus Smetana, Cercyon (Dicyrtocercyon) ustulatus (Preyssler).
["Helophoridae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Capoeta coadi, a new species of cyprinid fish from the Karun River drainage, Iran based on morphological and molecular evidences (Teleostei, Cyprinidae)
As presently recognized, the genus Capoeta includes 24 species, nine of which are known to occur in Iran (C. aculeata, C. capoeta, C. buhsei, C. damascina, C. fusca, C. heratensis, C. mandica, C. saadii and C. trutta) and are distributed in almost all Iranian basins except Sistan and Mashkid. Capoeta coadi sp. n. is a new species from the Karun River, southern Iran, draining into the Arvand Rud (Shatt al-Arab) which drains into the Persian Gulf. It is distinguished from all other species of Capoeta by the combination of the following characters: elongate and usually cylindrical body; 8–9 branched dorsal-fin rays; last unbranched dorsal-fin ray weakly to moderately ossified and serrated along 1/3–2/3 of its length; scales small; 70-84 in lateral line (total); 12–17 scales between dorsal-fin origin and lateral line; 9-11 scales between anal-fin origin and lateral line; 26–32 circum-peduncular scales; 10–13 gill rakers on lower limb of first gill arch; 45–47 total vertebrae; one posterior pair of barbels; bright golden-greenish or silvery body coloration in life; length of the longest dorsal-fin ray 15–22% SL; head length 23–26% SL; mouth width 7–10% SL. Capoeta coadi is also distinguished from all other congeners in the Iranian drainages by fixed diagnostic nucleotide substitutions in the mtDNA COI barcode region and cyt b. It is nested in the Capoeta damascina species complex.
["Capoeta damascina species complex"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A contribution to the knowledge of the mountain entomofauna of Mexico with a description of two new species of Onthophagus Latreille, 1802 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae)
Recent intensive samplings carried out across the mountainous regions of El Pinal (Puebla, Mexico) have provided new insights into the main environmental factors that affect the geographic distribution of the scarabaeinae beetles of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt above 2500 m a.s.l. This study is part of an ongoing project investigating the diversity and biogeography of copro-necrophagous beetles (Scarabaeinae, Aphodiinae, Geotrupinae and Silphidae) in the easternmost areas of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. Previous experience allows us to propose a series of predictions that we expect will provide possible explanations for current distribution patterns observed in Scarabaeinae and other groups of insects found in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. This mountain range has a primarily biogeographic importance, limiting the Mexican High Plateau in the South and connecting the western and eastern Sierra Madre mountain chains, which are considered the most important routes for dispersal of mountain fauna of northern origin. The taxonomic and biogeographic study of the species collected so far in El Pinal (including Onthophagus clavijeroi sp. n. and Onthophagus martinpierai sp. n. described here), along with their possible relationships with other known species, allows us to answer the preliminary assumptions proposed.
["Scarabaeinae"]

A new species of Haploperla from China (Plecoptera, Chloroperlidae)
A new species of the genus Haploperla, H. triangulata sp. n., is described and illustrated from specimens collected in Qinghai province, China. Haploperla triangulata is characterized by the epiproct mostly sclerotized and hairless, sub-triangular in dorsal view and blunt at tip; and by the aedeagus with two median elliptical lobes ventrally. The new species is compared with its most similar congeners, and diagnostic characters are presented.
["Stoneflies"]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Hungarian Social, Economic and Educational Studies"]

Contributions to the knowledge of the genus Horaeomorphus Schaufuss (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae) in mainland China
Five new species of the ant-like stone beetle genus Horaeomorphus Schaufuss (Scydmaeninae: Glandulariini) from China are described: H. hainanicus sp. n., H. biwenxuani sp. n., H. pengzhongi sp. n., H. hujiayaoi sp. n. and H. punctatus sp. n. The previously unknown male of H. chinensis Franz, 1985 is now discovered, and its aedeagus and metatrochanter are illustrated. The latter species is newly recorded from Zhejiang. Three females from Guangxi are also recorded, but their identity remains unconfirmed until associated males become available. A key to Horaeomorphus of mainland China is included.
["Scydmaeninae"]

Revision of the Malagasy Camponotus edmondi species group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Formicinae): integrating qualitative morphology and multivariate morphometric analysis
The Malagasy Camponotus edmondi species group is revised based on both qualitative morphological traits and multivariate analysis of continuous morphometric data. To minimize the effect of the scaling properties of diverse traits due to worker caste polymorphism, and to achieve the desired near-linearity of data, morphometric analyses were done only on minor workers. The majority of traits exhibit broken scaling on head size, dividing Camponotus workers into two discrete subcastes, minors and majors. This broken scaling prevents the application of algorithms that uses linear combination of data to the entire dataset, hence only minor workers were analyzed statistically. The elimination of major workers resulted in linearity and the data meet required assumptions. However, morphometric ratios for the subsets of minor and major workers were used in species descriptions and redefinitions. Prior species hypotheses and the goodness of clusters were tested on raw data by confirmatory linear discriminant analysis. Due to the small sample size available for some species, a factor known to reduce statistical reliability, hypotheses generated by exploratory analyses were tested with extreme care and species delimitations were inferred via the combined evidence of both qualitative (morphology and biology) and quantitative data. Altogether, fifteen species are recognized, of which 11 are new to science: C. alamaina sp. n., C. androy sp. n., C. bevohitra sp. n., C. galoko sp. n., C. matsilo sp. n., C. mifaka sp. n., C. orombe sp. n., C. tafo sp. n., C. tratra sp. n., C. varatra sp. n., and C. zavo sp. n. Four species are redescribed: C. echinoploides Forel, C. edmondi André, C. ethicus Forel, and C. robustus Roger. Camponotus edmondi ernesti Forel, syn. n. is synonymized under C. edmondi. This revision also includes an identification key to species for both minor and major castes, information on geographic distribution and biology, taxonomic discussions, and descriptions of intraspecific variation. Traditional taxonomy and multivariate morphometric analysis are independent sources of information which, in combination, allow more precise species delimitation. Moreover, quantitative characters included in identification keys improve accuracy of determination in difficult cases.

A new species of Metopiinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) parasitizing lepidopteran larvae in China
A new species of Metopiinae, Trieces etuokensis Sheng, sp. n., is described and illustrated. Specimens were reared from two species of Lepidoptera: Bazaria turensis (Ragonot, 1887) (Pyralidae) from Balong, Dulan, Qinghai Province, and an unidentified psychid (Psychidae) from Mukainor, Etuoke, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. The new species is characterized by a yellow face and clypeus, fore and middle femora and hind tibia mainly black, antennae slightly longer than head and mesosoma combined, with 17 flagellomeres, occipital carina entirely absent, and the hind femur being compressed, 2.5 times as its long as maximum width.
["Trieces"]

Description of two new species of bat fleas of the genus Araeopsylla (Siphonaptera) from Kenya and Madagascar with notes on miscellaneous bat fleas
The flea genus Araeopsylla Jordan and Rothschild, 1921 contains nine species distributed throughout the Palaearctic, Ethiopian and Oriental Regions primarily on mollosid bats. A new species of bat flea, Araeopsylla goodmani, is described. This new species is represented by three females collected from one male specimen of the mollosid bat Chaerephon jobimena Goodman & Cardiff, 2004 from Fianarantsoa Province, Madagascar. A second new species, Araeopsylla smiti, is described from one male from the Rift Valley, Kenya. It was collected from the molossid bat Chaerephon bivittatus (Heuglin, 1861). This represents the first record of Araeopsylla in Kenya. Previous records of Araeopsylla in the Malagasy region included Araeopsylla martialis (Rothschild, 1903) from Reunion Island and Madagascar. One hundred fifty-eight specimens (64♂, 94♀) of A. martialis were collected from 67 specimens (flea intensity of 2.4 fleas per host) of Mormopterus jugularis (Peters, 1865) across three provinces of Madagascar (Fianarantosa, Toamasina, and Toliara). Mormopterus jugularis is clearly a common host for A. martialis. Dampfia grahami grahami (Waterston, 1915) is also reported from Eptesicus matroka (Thomas & Schwann, 1905) which is the first record from this host species and the first time the genus Dampfia has been documented in Madagascar. Although Lagaropsylla consularis Smit, 1957 and Lagaropsylla idae Smit, 1957 have been reported in Madagascar previously, Mops leucostigma Allen, 1918 is a new host record for L. idae. The flea intensity of L. idae (64♂, 83♀) on 28 specimens of M. leucostigma was extremely high at 5.3 fleas per host. A key to the genus Araeopsylla is provided.
["Araeopsylla"]
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

A new large species of Myloplus (Characiformes, Serrasalmidae) from the Rio Madeira basin, Brazil
Myloplus zorroi sp. n. is described from the Rio Madeira Basin in Amazonia. The new species had been treated as an undescribed Tometes species because of the absence of a marked abdominal keel and few small spines forming its prepelvic serrae, features commonly found in the species of the Myleus clade of the Serrasalmidae (species of genera Myleus, Mylesinus, Ossubtus and Tometes) and also in species of Utiaritichthys. Myloplus zorroi sp. n. shares the following characters with its congeners and Utiaritichthys: molariform teeth (versus incisiform teeth in Myleus clade members); a labial row of premaxillary teeth separated from lingual row by an internal gap (versus absence of internal gap between premaxillary teeth rows); and an ascending process of premaxilla wide from its base to the tip (versus ascending process tapering from its base to the tip). Like other Myloplus species, M. zorroi sp. n. differs from Utiariticthys by having a deeper body, approximately 60% of standard length (versus usually less than 50% of standard length). Considering all the morphological evidence, including the presence of 13–19 low spines forming the prepelvic serrae in M. zorroi sp. n. versus more than 20 high spines forming a marked prepelvic keel in other species of Mylopus, the new species is here assigned to Myloplus. Comparisons of the new species with nominal species of Myloplus, representatives of the Myleus clade, and other related taxa are provided.
["Ostariophysi"]

A remarkable new species of the genus Teinotarsina (Lepidoptera, Sesiidae) from Okinawa-jima, Japan
A new species of long-legged clearwing moth Teinotarsina aurantiaca Yagi, Hirowatari & Arita, sp. n. is described from Okinawa-jima, the Ryukyus, Japan. The species is distinguishable at a glance from other related congeners by the remarkable orange scales ornamenting many parts of the body, such as antennae, palpi, legs, and wings. We hypothesize that the species acquired these differences as a result of convergence with toxic species (Batesian mimicry) or other mimics (Müllerian mimicry).
["Clearwing moth"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A stunning new species of Jamides Hübner, 1819 (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae), with notes on sympatric congeners from the Bismarck Archipelago, Papua New Guinea
Jamides vasilia sp. n., from montane West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, is described and illustrated. The new species is strongly divergent from other known Jamides Hübner, 1819 in possessing a high antenna-forewing length ratio, long androconia on the hindwing upperside and a strongly convex forewing inner margin in the male. It is compared by external structures, male genitalia and mtDNA sequence data to putative related species in the cyta group of Jamides. Notes on various Jamides taxa from the Bismarck Archipelago are also provided, with J. pseudosias (Rothschild, 1915) and J. reverdini (Fruhstorfer, 1915) recorded from New Britain for the first time.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Culicoides hildebrandoi, a new species of the reticulatus species group from the Brazilian Amazon Region (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)
A new species of biting midge (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), Culicoides hildebrandoi sp. n., is described and illustrated based on female and male specimens from the states of Amazonas and Rondônia, Brazil. This new species belongs to the reticulatus species group and differs from the 24 other species of this group by the elongate slightly swollen 3rd palpal segment with scattered capitate sensilla but lacking a sensory pit.
["Amazonas"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "T-cell and Retrovirus Studies", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

A new species of Apolochus (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridea, Amphilochidae) in Maryland coastal bays, USA with notes on its abundance and distribution
A new amphilochid amphipod, Apolochus cresti sp. n. is described from specimens collected in the shallow waters of Maryland coastal bays, Mid-Atlantic region, at depths from 1.7 to 2.1 m. The new species appears to be most closely related to the northeastern Atlantic species, A. neapolitanussensu Krapp-Schickel, 1982. Apolochus cresti sp. n. can be distinguished from A. neapolitanus by a combination of characters, including the shape of the lateral cephalic lobe, shape of the mandible molar process, relative length of mandible palp article 3, the carpal lobe length of gnathopod 2, and the lack of sub-marginal spines on antero-lateral surface of gnathopod 2. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between the abundance of A. cresti and the amount of macroalgae collected per station, bay, and month. Ovigerous females carrying eggs were present from March to May and in October, reaching their peak in May, although only ovigerous females carrying juveniles were found in May. Males were abundant in March and were collected also in May and October. A key for the separation of Apolochus species is presented.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Two new species of the genus Trouessartia (Acari, Trouessartiidae) from laughingthrushes (Passeriformes, Leiothrichidae)
Two new feather mite species of the genus Trouessartia Canestrini are described from laughingthrushes (Passeriformes: Leiothrichidae) captured in Meghalaya (India): Trouessartia cyanouropterae sp. n. from Actinodura cyanouroptera (Hodgson) and Trouessartia alcippeae sp. n. from Alcippe nipalensis (Hodgson). It is the first time when species of the genus Trouessartia are described from leiothrichids.

Review of the Southeast Asian millipede genus Antheromorpha Jeekel, 1968 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The genus Antheromorpha is redefined and shown to comprise 11 valid species: A. miranda (Pocock, 1895), A. bistriata (Pocock, 1895), A. comotti (Pocock, 1895), A. festiva (Brölemann, 1896), A. harpaga (Attems, 1937), A. mediovirgata (Carl, 1941), A. minlana (Pocock, 1895), A. pardalis (Pocock, 1895), A. paviei (Brölemann, 1896), comb. n., A. rosea Golovatch, 2013 and A. uncinata (Attems, 1931). Three new synonymies are proposed: A. bivittata (Pocock, 1895) and A. melanopleuris (Pocock, 1895) are synonymized under A. miranda (Pocock, 1895), and A. orophila (Carl, 1941) under A. comotti (Pocock, 1895). Detailed descriptions and illustrations of fresh material from Thailand and Malaysia are given, especially regarding colour patterns which appear to be crucial for accurate species identifications. Two Antheromorpha species proposed by Attems are redescribed, based on type material. The genus is rediagnosed and a key and a distribution map are also provided. At least in Thailand, adult A. rosea have been found to occur every year only for one or two weeks in September or October, disappearing thereafter.
["Review"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new species of sponge inhabiting barnacle Bryozobia (Archaeobalanidae, Bryozobiinae) in the West Pacific
This paper describes a new species, Bryozobia rossi sp. n., collected by scuba diving in both Taiwan and Japan. B. rossi sp. n., a member of the subfamily Bryozobiinae (Ross and Newman 1996), has atria and open end portals and a single irregular basal whorl of portals at the same level as basal hemiportals; this morphology varies from all previously described bryozobiines. According to our review of relevant literature, this is the first reported Bryozobia in the Pacific, and this study is the first to describe the morphology of oral cone, cirri, and penis for the genus Bryozobia.
["Sponge inhabiting barnacle"]

Catalogue of Texas spiders
This catalogue lists 1,084 species of spiders (three identified to genus only) in 311 genera from 53 families currently recorded from Texas and is based on the “Bibliography of Texas Spiders” published by Bea Vogel in 1970. The online list of species can be found at http://pecanspiders.tamu.edu/spidersoftexas.htm. Many taxonomic revisions have since been published, particularly in the families Araneidae, Gnaphosidae and Leptonetidae. Many genera in other families have been revised. The Anyphaenidae, Ctenidae, Hahniidae, Nesticidae, Sicariidae and Tetragnathidae were also revised. Several families have been added and others split up. Several genera of Corinnidae were transferred to Phrurolithidae and Trachelidae. Two genera from Miturgidae were transferred to Eutichuridae. Zoridae was synonymized under Miturgidae. A single species formerly in Amaurobiidae is now in the Family Amphinectidae. Some trapdoor spiders in the family Ctenizidae have been transferred to Euctenizidae. Gertsch and Mulaik started a list of Texas spiders in 1940. In a letter from Willis J. Gertsch dated October 20, 1982, he stated “Years ago a first listing of the Texas fauna was published by me based largely on Stanley Mulaik material, but it had to be abandoned because of other tasks.” This paper is a compendium of the spiders of Texas with distribution, habitat, collecting method and other data available from revisions and collections. This includes many records and unpublished data (including data from three unpublished studies). One of these studies included 16,000 adult spiders belonging to 177 species in 29 families. All specimens in that study were measured and results are in the appendix. Hidalgo County has 340 species recorded with Brazos County at 323 and Travis County at 314 species. These reflect the amount of collecting in the area.

Biodiversity data mining from Argus-eyed citizens: the first illegal introduction record of Lepomis macrochirus macrochirus Rafinesque, 1819 in Japan based on Twitter information
An apparent illegal introduction of Lepomis macrochirus macrochirus from Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, is reported based on a juvenile specimen and a photograph of two adults collected on 14 June 2015 and deposited in the Kangawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History. The specimens and photographs were initially reported on the internet-based social networking site, Twitter. Two specimens of Carassius auratus, including an aquarium form, were also reported at the same locality and date, suggesting that the illegal introductions originated from an aquarium release. Our report demonstrates an example of web data mining in the discipline of Citizen Science.
["Biotope"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Peckoltia from the Upper Orinoco (Siluriformes, Loricariidae)
A new species of the suckermouth armored catfish genus Peckoltia is described from the lower Ventuari River, a tributary of the upper Orinoco River in Amazonas State, Venezuela. Specimens of this species were formerly included in the wide-ranging Amazonian species P. vittata, but a recent molecular phylogeny found Orinoco individuals to be distantly related to Amazon Basin individuals spanning the range of P. vittata syntypes. Detailed morphological examination confirmed distinctiveness of Orinoco specimens, and found them to be diagnosable from true P. vittata by having generally greater than 25 teeth (vs. less), spots on the nape (vs. nape lacking spots), the upper lip with two to three black bar-shaped markings in a line like a moustache (vs. lips generally with a hyaline wash), and by the snout having a medial black line disconnected from the moustache markings (vs. medial snout stripe connected to a bar just above the lip). Peckoltia wernekei displays remarkable genetic similarity to its sister species, P. lujani, but differs morphologically by having dentary tooth rows meet at an angle less than 90° (vs. >90°), by having large faint blotches on the abdomen (vs. abdomen with no blotches), by a smaller internares width (21.2–26.6% vs. 28.5–46.5% of interorbital width), and a larger dorsal spine (148.1–178.6% vs. 80.1–134.5% of abdominal length).
["Ancistrini"]

Taxonomic revision of the Carpathian endemic Pedicia (Crunobia) staryi species–group (Diptera, Pediciidae) based on morphology and molecular data
Three new species of the genus Pedicia, subgenus Crunobia (Diptera: Pediciidae) belonging to the staryi group are described on the basis of a combination of molecular and morphology datasets, and a key to discriminate between species of the subgenus Crunobia is added. Geographic projection of the identified taxa suggests insular-like distribution and shows the importance of the Carpathians as a genetic center which is home to an exceptionally high aquatic diversity in Europe.
["Crunobia"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Two new species of Prolyda from the Middle Jurassic of China (Hymenoptera, Pamphilioidea)
Two new species of the genus Prolyda Rasnitsyn, 1968, Prolyda dimidia sp. n. and Prolyda elegantula sp. n., are described and illustrated. Both specimens were well-preserved and collected from the latest Middle Jurassic Jiulongshan Formation of Daohugou Village in Inner Mongolia, China. Based on the new morphological data, a key to the five known species of Prolyda is provided. In addition, Prolyda has an enlarged first antennal flagellomere, which means it might have revert to the elongate plesiomorphic state for the antennal configuration as previously documented.
["Daohugou"]

Three new species of the genus Leptonetela from Greece (Araneae, Leptonetidae)
Three new species of the spider genus Leptonetela collected from caves in Greece are described: L. arvanitidisi sp. n. (male & female), L. paragamiani sp. n. (male & female) and L. penevi sp. n. (male & female). Detailed illustrations of the new species are provided. DNA barcodes were obtained for future use.

The Dermacentor (Acari, Ixodida, Ixodidae) of Mexico: hosts, geographical distribution and new records
Distribution and host data from published literature and previously unpublished collection records are provided for all nine species of the Holarctic tick genus Dermacentor that are known to occur in Mexico, as well as two species that may occur there. Parasite-host and host-parasite lists are presented, together with a gazetteer of collection localities and their geographical coordinates.
["Dermacentor"]
["Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Study of Mite Species", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

Revision of the Japanese species of Epicephala Meyrick with descriptions of seven new species (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae)
Epicephala moths are involved in obligate mutualisms with their Phyllanthaceae hosts, in which the female moths assure pollination and, in return, their progeny develop by consuming the seeds. Ecological, molecular and geographical data suggest that the genus includes several hundred species, but the majority remains to be formally described. Here we revise the Japanese species of Epicephala Meyrick, 1880. In addition to two previously named species, seven species are newly described: E. anthophilia sp. n., E. lanceolatella sp. n., E. perplexa sp. n., E. obovatella sp. n., E. corruptrix sp. n., E. parasitica sp. n. and E. nudilingua sp. n. The first four are species involved in obligate pollination mutualism, while the fifth is a pollinating seed parasite and the last two are derived non-pollinating seed parasites of herbaceous Phyllanthus. Each of the nine Japanese Epicephela species is specialized to a single plant species in the genera Glochidion, Breynia or Phyllanthus, except for E. obovatella and E. corruptrix that each utilizes two closely related Glochidion species. Considerable variations are found in pollination and oviposition behaviors among species, which are reflected in their proboscis and ovipositor morphologies, respectively. Molecular phylogeny indicated that there have been repeated transitions in oviposition mode during the diversification of Epicephala, which were accompanied by changes in ovipositor morphology, as suggested by a correlation analysis. Keys to species are provided.
["Active pollination behavior"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A new species and additional records of Lobrathium Mulsant & Rey (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from South China
Material of the genus Lobrathium Mulsant & Rey, 1878 from the Chinese provinces Fujian, Hunan, Sichuan, Guangdong and Guangxi is examined. Six species are identified, four of them described previously and two undescribed. Lobrathium kedian Peng & Li, sp. n. (Guangxi: Shiwangda Shan) is described and illustrated. One probably undescribed species remains unnamed. The female sexual characters of L. flexum Assing, 2014 are described and illustrated for the first time. The genus is now represented in mainland China by 43 species.

Review of the planthopper genus Neohemisphaerius (Hemiptera, Fulgoroidea, Issidae) with description of one new species from China
The planthopper genus Neohemisphaerius Chen, Zhang & Chang, 2014 (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Issidae) is reviewed to include 3 species: N. wugangensis Chen, Zhang & Chang, 2014 (China: Hunan), N. yangi Chen, Zhang & Chang, 2014 (China: Guangdong) and N. guangxiensis sp. n. (China: Guangxi). A revised generic diagnosis is given. The new species is described and all species illustrated. A key to these three species is also given. The species Neohemisphaerius signifer (Walker) is transferred back to Hemisphaerius as H. signifer Walker, comb. revived.

The genus Litophyton Forskål, 1775 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Nephtheidae) in the Red Sea and the western Indian Ocean
The Litophyton species of the Red Sea and the western Indian Ocean are revised, which includes species previously belonging to the genus Nephthea, which is synonymized with Litophyton. A neotype for both Litophyton arboreum, the type species of Litophyton, and Nephthea chabrolii, the type species of Nephthea, are designated. The new species L. curvum sp. n. is described and depicted, and a key to all Litophyton species is provided. Of the 26 species previously described from the western Indian Ocean and Red Sea, 13 species are considered valid and 13 have been synonymized or placed in other genera.
["Cnidaria"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Three new genera of Neotropical Mimallonidae (Lepidoptera, Mimallonoidea, Mimallonidae) with descriptions of three new species
Three new genera of Mimallonidae are described. The monotypic genus Tostallo gen. n. is erected to contain “Perophora” albescens Jones, 1912, which was previously placed in the preoccupied genus Perophora Harris, 1841 and was never formally moved to a valid genus. Perophora is a junior homonym of Cicinnus Blanchard, 1852, but the name albescens is not appropriately placed in Cicinnus due to external and genitalia characteristics entirely unique to the species albescens. The female of Tostallo albescens comb. n. is described and both sexes are figured for the first time. Auroriana gen. n. is erected to contain A. florianensis (Herbin, 2012), comb. n. previously described as Cicinnus florianensis, and two new species: A. colombiana sp. n. from Colombia and A. gemma sp. n. from southeastern and southern Brazil. The female of A. florianensis is described and figured for the first time. Finally, the monotypic genus Micrallo gen. n. is erected to include a new species, M. minutus sp. n. described from northeastern Brazil.
["Auroriana"]

Revision of the genus Menevia Schaus, 1928 (Lepidoptera, Mimallonoidea, Mimallonidae) with the description of 11 new species
The Neotropical genus Menevia Schaus, 1928 is revised to include 18 species, 11 of which are new. Two species, M. ostia comb. n. and M. parostia comb. n. are transferred from Pamea Walker, 1855 to Menevia. Four species-groups are diagnosed for the first time based on external characters and male genitalia morphology. The following new species are described: M. rosea sp. n., M. torvamessoria sp. n., M. magna sp. n., M. menapia sp. n., M. mielkei sp. n., M. australis sp. n., M. vulgaris sp. n., M. franclemonti sp. n., M. vulgaricula sp. n., M. cordillera sp. n., and M. delphinus sp. n.. A neotype is designated for Mimallo plagiata Walker, 1855, which has since been placed in Menevia. Mimallo saturata Walker, 1855 is interpreted to be a nomen dubium.
["Mimallo"]

Chordodes ferox, a new record of horsehair worms (Nematomorpha, Gordiida) from South Africa
Three females and one male specimen of a previously unconfirmed species of horsehair worms (Nematomorpha) from South Africa are described using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The females correspond to the description of Chordodes ferox Camerano, 1897, a species previously described from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Congo-Kinshasa) and an adjacent, not further specified region of the Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville). Characteristic is the presence of enlarged and elevated simple areoles around the base of a thorn areole, in combination with further cuticular characters. This is the latest of a total of six species of horsehair worms reported from South Africa so far. Two species of praying mantids, Polyspilota aeruginosa (Goeze, 1778) and Sphodromantis gastrica Stål, 1858, have been identified as hosts of C. ferox, while its distribution range in the region and the period of adult emergence from the host remain largely unknown.
["Nematomorpha"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Two new species and five newly recorded species of the genus Udea Guenée from China (Lepidoptera, Crambidae)
A checklist of the 31 Chinese species of Udea is given, including the new species and new records. Udea curvata sp. n. and U. albostriata sp. n. are described and illustrated. Udea exigualis (Wileman, 1911), U. stationalis Yamanaka, 1988, U. prunalis (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775), U. elutalis (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775) and U. cyanalis (La Harpe, 1855) are newly recorded for China.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant and animal studies"]

Newly discovered populations of the Ethiopian endemic and endangered Afrixalus clarkei Largen, implications for conservation
Knowledge of the Ethiopian amphibian fauna is limited and Southwest Ethiopia remains understudied. This part of Ethiopia, where most of the country’s remaining natural forest is situated, is known to harbour the only populations of Afrixalus clarkei (Largen), an endemic banana frog, worldwide. This species is under great threat of extinction and is therefore classified as endangered on the IUCN red list. We surveyed different potential habitats for this species outside its known range and found several new populations extending its known habitat preference, and the geographical and altitudinal range of the species. We here show that Afrixalus clarkei is more common than previously thought.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

A survey of scale insects in soil samples from Europe (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha)
In the last decades, several expeditions were organized in Europe by the researchers of the Hungarian Natural History Museum to collect snails, aquatic insects and soil animals (mites, springtails, nematodes, and earthworms). In this study, scale insect (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) specimens extracted from Hungarian Natural History Museum soil samples (2970 samples in total), all of which were collected using soil and litter sampling devices, and extracted by Berlese funnel, were examined. From these samples, 43 scale insect species (Acanthococcidae 4, Coccidae 2, Micrococcidae 1, Ortheziidae 7, Pseudococcidae 21, Putoidae 1 and Rhizoecidae 7) were found in 16 European countries. In addition, a new species belonging to the family Pseudococcidae, Brevennia larvalis Kaydan, sp. n. and a new species of Ortheziidae, Ortheziola editae Szita & Konczné Benedicty, sp. n. are described and illustrated based on the adult female stage. Revised keys to the adult females of Brevennia and Ortheziola are presented.
["Hypogeal scale insects"]
["Research on scale insects", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Systematics of the parasitic wasp genus Oxyscelio Kieffer (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae s.l.), part III: African fauna
African species of Oxyscelio (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae s.l.) are revised. A total of 14 species are recognized, 13 of which are described as new: O. absentiae Burks, sp. n., O. galeri Burks, sp. n., O. gyri Burks, sp. n., O. idoli Burks, sp. n., O. intensionis Burks, sp. n., O. io Burks, sp. n., O. kylix Burks, sp. n., O. lunae Burks, sp. n., O. nemesis Burks, sp. n., O. pulveris Burks, sp. n., O. quassus Burks, sp. n., O. teli Burks, sp. n. and O. xenii Burks, sp. n. The genus Freniger Szabó, syn. n. is recognized as part of an endemic African species group of Oxyscelio with incomplete hind wing venation, and O. bicolor (Szabó), comb. n. is therefore recognized as the only previously described species of Oxyscelio from Africa. The O. crateris and O. cuculli species groups, previously known from southeast Asia, are represented in Africa by seven and one species respectively.
["Platygastroidea"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Contributions to the knowledge of subterranean trechine beetles in southern China’s karsts: five new genera (Insecta, Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
Recent discoveries reveal that southern China’s karsts hold the most diverse and morphologically modified subterranean trechine beetles in the world, albeit the first troglobitic blind beetle was only reported in the early 1990’s. In total, 110 species belonging to 43 genera of cavernicolous trechines have hitherto been recorded from the karsts of southern China, including the following five new genera proposed below: Shiqianaphaenops Tian, gen. n., to contain two species: Shiqianaphaenops majusculus (Uéno, 1999) (= Shenaphaenops majusculus Uéno, 1999, comb. n.), the type species from Cave Feng Dong, Shiqian, Guizhou, and Shiqianaphaenops cursor (Uéno, 1999) (= Shenaphaenops cursor Uéno, 1999, comb. n.), from Cave Shenxian Dong, Shiqian, Guizhou; and the monotypic Dianotrechus Tian, gen. n. (the type species: D. gueorguievi Tian, sp. n., from Cave Dashi Dong, Kunming, Yunnan), Tianeotrechus Tian & Tang, gen. n. (the type species: T. trisetosus Tian & Tang, sp. n., from Cave Bahao Dong, Tian’e County, Guangxi), Huoyanodytes Tian & Huang, gen. n. (the type species: H. tujiaphilus Tian & Huang, sp. n., from Longshan, Hunan) and Wanhuaphaenops Tian & Wang, gen. n. (the type species: W. zhangi Tian & Wang, sp. n., from Cave Songjia Dong, Chenzhou, Hunan).
["New genus"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A new species of Gudeodiscus Páll-Gergely, 2013 from China, with extraordinary conchological and anatomical features (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Plectopylidae)
A new species of the Plectopylidae, Gudeodiscus longiplica is described from northern Guangxi Province, southern China. The shell, anatomical and radular characters are figured and described. This new species is characterized by long plicae on its parietal shell wall, which have not been observed in any other Gudeodiscus species. In contrast, the long parietal plicae are characteristic for the genera Plectopylis and Chersaecia, which mainly inhabit Thailand and Myanmar. These two genera are, however, only distantly related to the new species, as other characters (anatomy, protoconch sculpture, parietal plicae) suggest. The male portion of the genital structure of the new species is characterized by two separate penial caeca with different lengths, but similar in outer and inner structure. The relevance of this anatomical character is discussed. Gudeodiscus longiplica sp. n. occurs sympatrically with Gudeodiscus soosi Páll-Gergely, 2013. The anatomy and radula characters of the latter species are also described and figured.

First Alaskan records and a significant northern range extension for two species of Diplura (Diplura, Campodeidae)
Species in the class Diplura are recorded from Alaska for the first time. Two species, Tricampa rileyi Silvestri from Dall and Prince of Wales Islands in the Alexander Archipelago of Southeast Alaska and Metriocampa allocerca Conde & Geeraert from near Quartz Lake, southeast of Fairbanks, both in the family Campodeidae, are documented based on recently collected specimens deposited in the University of AlaskaMuseum Insect Collection. A brief review of the history of the documentation of the Alaskan soil microarthropod fauna is provided, as well as discussion of possible glacial refugia.
["Diplura"]
["Climate change and permafrost", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

First description of the female of the jumping spider Balmaceda nigrosecta Mello-Leitão (Salticidae, Dendryphantini, Marpissina)
The female of Balmaceda nigrosecta Mello-Leitão, 1945 is described and illustrated for the first time. In addition, this paper further illustrates the male, and provides the first known observations on the natural history of this species, including habitat, cohabitation, and prey capturedata.
["Natural history"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Bambusimukaria, a new bamboo-feeding leafhopper genus from China, with description of one new species (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae, Mukariini)
A new genus and species, Bambusimukaria quinquepunctata gen. & sp. n., feeding on bamboo in Guizhou and Fujian, China, are described and illustrated. The characters of crown, frontoclypeus, forewing venations and male genitalia place the new genus in the tribe Mukariini.
["Cicadomorpha"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

The alien ascidian Styela clava now invading the Sea of Marmara (Tunicata: Ascidiacea)
During the implementation of a large project aimed to investigate the benthic community structures of the Sea of Marmara, specimens of the invasive ascidian species Styela clava were collected on natural substrata (rocks) at 10 m depth at one locality (Karamürsel) in İzmit Bay. The specimens were mature, containing gametes, indicating that the species had become established in the area. The Sea of Marmara seems to provide suitable conditions for this species to survive and form proliferating populations.
["Invasive alien species"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Uncovering the diversity in the Amazophrynella minuta complex: integrative taxonomy reveals a new species of Amazophrynella (Anura, Bufonidae) from southern Peru
A new species of the genus Amazophrynella (Anura, Bufonidae) is described from the departments of Madre de Dios, Cusco and Junin in Peru. An integrative taxonomy approach is used. A morphological diagnosis, morphometrics comparisons, description of the advertisement call, and the phylogenetic relationships of the new species are provided. Amazophrynella javierbustamantei sp. n. differs from other species of Amazophrynella by: intermediate body-size (snout-vent length 14.9 mm in males, n = 26 and 19.6 mm in females, n = 20), tuberculate skin texture of body, greatest hand length of the Amazophrynella spp. (3.6 mm in males, n = 26 and 4.6 mm in females, n = 20), venter coloration yellowish, tiny rounded black points covering the venter, and thirteen molecular autapomorphies in the 16S RNA gene. Its distribution varies from 215 to 708 m a.s.l. This discovery highlights the importance of the remnant forest in preserving the biodiversity in Peru, and increase in seven the species formally described in the genus Amazophrynella.

Additions to the Limoniidae and Pediciidae fauna of Morocco, with an updated checklist (Diptera, Tipuloidea)
Eighteen species of Limoniidae and two species of Pediciidae are recorded for the first time in Morocco, of which 15 species are new to North Africa. An updated checklist of Moroccan short-palped craneflies (Limoniidae and Pediciidae) is appended, containing 73 species in 25 genera.
["Morocco"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

A checklist of helminth parasites of Elasmobranchii in Mexico
A comprehensive and updated summary of the literature and unpublished records contained in scientific collections on the helminth parasites of the elasmobranchs from Mexico is herein presented for the first time. At present, the helminth fauna associated with Elasmobranchii recorded in Mexico is composed of 132 (110 named species and 22 not assigned to species), which belong to 70 genera included in 27 families (plus 4 incertae sedis families of cestodes). These data represent 7.2% of the worldwide species richness. Platyhelminthes is the most widely represented, with 128 taxa: 94 of cestodes, 22 of monogeneans and 12 of trematodes; Nematoda and Annelida: Hirudinea are represented by only 2 taxa each. These records come from 54 localities, pertaining to 15 states; Baja California Sur (17 sampled localities) and Baja California (10), are the states with the highest species richness: 72 and 54 species, respectively. Up to now, 48 elasmobranch species have been recorded as hosts of helminths in Mexico; so, approximately 82% of sharks and 67% of rays distributed in Mexican waters lack helminthological studies. The present list provides the host, distribution (with geographical coordinates), site of infection, accession number in scientific collections, and references for the parasites. A host-parasite list is also provided.
["Platyhelminthes"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

New species of subgenus Tipula (Sivatipula) from China, with redescription of T. (S.) parvauricula and a key to all known species of the Oriental Region (Diptera, Tipulidae, Tipula)
Species of Tipula (Sivatipula) biprocessasp. n. from Guangxi, China is described and illustrated as new in the subgenus Tipula (Sivatipula) Alexander, 1964. T. (S.) parvauricula Alexander, 1941 is redescribed and illustrated based on additional morphological characters. Semen pump of this subgenus is discussed. A key to all described species in this group is compiled.

A key to the genera and species of the transversely-dividing Flabellidae (Anthozoa, Scleractinia, Flabellidae), with a guide to the literature, and the description of two new species
The transversely-dividing flabellids consist of five genera (Truncatoflabellum, Placotrochides, Blastotrochus, Placotrochus, and Falcatoflabellum) and 45 species. A dichotomous key is provided for these five genera as well as the species of the genus Truncatoflabellum and Placotrochides, the other three genera being monotypic. A tabular key is also provided for the 38 species of Truncatoflabellum. Two new combinations are suggested (T. gambierense and T. sphenodeum) and two new species are described (T. duncani and T. mozambiquensis). All but one species are illustrated and accompanied by their known distribution and a guide to the pertinent literature for the species. New records of 19 of the 45 species are listed. The transversely-dividing flabellids range from the Middle Eocene to the Recent at depths of 2–3010 m, and constitute 60% of the 65 known extant species of transversely-dividing Scleractinia.
["Flabellidae"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Unexpected diversity and a new species of Epizoanthus (Anthozoa, Hexacorallia) attached to eunicid worm tubes from the Pacific Ocean
Epizoanthus species are generally found in association with other marine invertebrates such as hermit crabs and gastropods. Although Epizoanthus spp. are relatively common, there is limited information about their diversity and ecology due to their habitats or hosts, often being below the depths of SCUBA diving (>~50 m). In particular, the Epizoanthus fauna of the Indo-Pacific Ocean remains poorly understood. In this study, the diversity of Epizoanthus species associated with eunicid worm tubes from shallow waters in the Pacific Ocean we investigated using molecular analyses (mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 = COI, mitochondrial 16S ribosomal DNA = mt 16S-rDNA, nuclear internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA = ITS-rDNA) combined with morphological and ecological data. The combined data set leads us to describe two new species; Epizoanthus inazuma sp. n. and Epizoanthus beriber sp. n. Both new species are found in low-light environments: E. inazuma sp. n. on mesophotic coral reef slopes and reef floors, or on the sides of overhangs; E. beriber sp. n. has only been found in caves. Morphological characteristics of these two new species are very similar to E. illoricatus Tischbierek, 1930 but the two new species are genetically distinct. Mesentery numbers and coloration of polyps may be useful diagnostic characteristics among eunicid-associated Epizoanthus species. These results demonstrate that there is high potential for other potentially undescribed zoantharian species, particularly in underwater cave habitats.
["Eunicidae"]

The desert tortoise trichotomy: Mexico hosts a third, new sister-species of tortoise in the Gopherus morafkai–G. agassizii group
Desert tortoises (Testudines; Testudinidae; Gopherus agassizii group) have an extensive distribution throughout the Mojave, Colorado, and Sonoran desert regions. Not surprisingly, they exhibit a tremendous amount of ecological, behavioral, morphological and genetic variation. Gopherus agassizii was considered a single species for almost 150 years but recently the species was split into the nominate form and Morafka’s desert tortoise, G. morafkai, the latter occurring south and east of the Colorado River. Whereas a large body of literature focuses on tortoises in the United States, a dearth of investigations exists for Mexican animals. Notwithstanding, Mexican populations of desert tortoises in the southern part of the range of G. morafkai are distinct, particularly where the tortoises occur in tropical thornscrub and tropical deciduous forest. Recent studies have shed light on the ecology, morphology and genetics of these southern ‘desert’ tortoises. All evidence warrants recognition of this clade as a distinctive taxon and herein we describe it as Gopherus evgoodei sp. n. The description of the new species significantly reduces and limits the distribution of G. morafkai to desertscrub habitat only. By contrast, G. evgoodei sp. n. occurs in thornscrub and tropical deciduous forests only and this leaves it with the smallest range of the three sister species. We present conservation implications for the newly described Gopherus evgoodei, which already faces impending threats.
["Gopherus"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies"]

The Knight and the King: two new species of giant bent-toed gecko (Cyrtodactylus, Gekkonidae, Squamata) from northern New Guinea, with comments on endemism in the North Papuan Mountains
The diverse biota of New Guinea includes many nominally widespread species that actually comprise multiple deeply divergent lineages with more localised histories of evolution. Here we investigate the systematics of the very large geckos of the Cyrtodactylus novaeguineae complex using molecular and morphological data. These data reveal two widespread and divergent lineages that can be distinguished from each other, and from type material of Cyrtodactylus novaeguineae, by aspects of size, build, coloration and male scalation. On the basis of these differences we describe two new species. Both have wide distributions that overlap extensively in the foothill forests of the North Papuan Mountains, however one is seemingly restricted to hill and lower montane forests on the ranges themselves, while the other is more widespread throughout the surrounding lowlands. The taxon endemic to the North Papuan Mountains is related to an apparently lowland form currently known only from Waigeo and Batanta Island far to the west – hinting at a history on island arcs that accreted to form the North Papuan Mountains.
["Arc accretion"]

A review of the genera Gnathochorisis Förster and Symplecis Förster of South Korea, with notes on Korean orthocentrines (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Orthocentrinae)
Two genera of Korean Orthocentrinae, Gnathochorisis and Symplecis, are reviewed, and keys to species of these genera are provided here. Two new species, Gnathochorisis fuscipes Humala & Lee, sp. n. and G. koreensis Humala & Lee, sp. n. are described from South Korea. The current state of the taxonomy of Eastern Palaearctic orthocentrines is briefly discussed.
["Fauna"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Review of the South American leafhopper genus Parandanus (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae)
The South American leafhopper genus Parandanus Linnavuori & DeLong (Deltocephalinae: Deltocephalini) is reviewed and four of its six species are illustrated and male genital characters are provided. Three new species from Peru, Parandanus longistylus Duan, sp. n., Parandanus nigricephalus Duan, sp. n. and Parandanus paracruciatus Duan, sp. n. are described. A key to species is also provided.

Salt lakes of La Mancha (Central Spain): A hot spot for tiger beetle (Carabidae, Cicindelinae) species diversity
The tiger beetle assemblage of the wetlands of La Mancha (central Spain) comprises nine species: Calomera littoralis littoralis, Cephalota maura maura, Cephalota circumdata imperialis, Cephalota dulcinea, Cicindela campestris campestris, Cicindela maroccana, Cylindera paludosa, Lophyra flexuosa flexuosa, and Myriochila melancholica melancholica. This assemblage represents the largest concentration of tiger beetles in a single 1º latitude / longitude square in Europe. General patterns of spatial and temporal segregation among species are discussed based on observations of 1462 specimens registered during an observation period of one year, from April to August. The different species of Cicindelini appear to be distributed over space and time, with little overlapping among them. Three sets of species replace each other phenologically as the season goes on. Most of the species occupy drying or dried salt lakes and salt marshes, with sparse vegetation cover. Spatial segregation is marked in terms of substrate and vegetation use. Calomera littoralis and M. melancholica have been observed mainly on wet soils; C. circumdata on dry open saline flats; C. dulcinea and C. paludosa in granulated substrates with typical halophytic vegetation; C. maura is often present in man-modified areas. Cephalota circumdata and C. dulcinea are included as species of special interest in the list of protected species in Castilla–La Mancha. Conservation problems for the Cicindelini assemblage arise from agricultural activities and inadequate use of sport vehicles. Attempts at restoring the original habitat, supressing old semi-industrial structures, may affect the spatial heterogeneity of the lakes, and have an effect on Cicindelinae diversity.
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Six new species of the spider genus Spiricoelotes species (Araneae, Agelenidae) from caves in Jiangxi, China
Six new species of the spider genus Spiricoelotes Wang, 2002 are described, S. anshiensis Chen & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), S. chufengensis Chen & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), S. nansheensis Chen & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), S. taipingensis Chen & Li, sp. n. (♂♀), S. xianheensis Chen & Li, sp. n. (♂♀) and S. xiongxinensis Chen & Li, sp. n. (♀). All new species were collected from caves in Jiangxi Province, China.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new species of the genus Anteon Jurine (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae) from Laos
A new species of Anteon Jurine, 1807 is described from Laos, Houaphanh Province: A. holzschuhi sp. n. Morphologically the new species is similar to A. semipolitum Olmi, 2008, but it is distinguished by the sculpture of the face partly reticulate rugose and partly with deep punctures similar to areolae; in A. semipolitum the face is completely punctate and unsculptured among punctures. In addition, in the new species the distance from the outer edge of a lateral ocellus to the compound eye (OOL) is about 3.3 times as long as the distance between the inner edges of a lateral ocellus and the median ocellus (OL); in A. semipolitumOOL is less than twice as long as OL. Published identification keys to the Oriental species of Anteon are modified to include the new species.

Morphology of juvenile stages of Kuschelina bergi (Harold) with biological information (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Alticini)
Kuschelina bergi (Harold, 1881) is being studied to be evaluated as a natural enemy of Phyla nodiflora var. minor (Hook.) N. O’Leary & Múlgura (Verbenaceae), an invasive weed in Australia. Eggs, and 1st and 3rd instar larvae are described and illustrated for the first time. The following characters distinguish Kuschelina bergi: presence of two medial setae in prosternum, mesosternum and metasternum, absence of tubercle on sternum I and eight setae in abdominal segment IX. The 3rd instar larvae of K. bergi resemble Kuschelina gibbitarsa (Say) larvae: the body shape and details of mouthparts are similar, but the morphology of the mandible is different, as is the tarsungulus which has a single seta. Differences between K. bergi and other known larvae of Oedionychina are discussed. New biological data based on laboratory rearing and field observation are also presented and discussed.
["Galerucinae"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Cryptomyrus: a new genus of Mormyridae (Teleostei, Osteoglossomorpha) with two new species from Gabon, West-Central Africa
We use mitochondrial and nuclear sequence data to show that three weakly electric mormyrid fish specimens collected at three widely separated localities in Gabon, Africa over a 13-year period represent an unrecognized lineage within the subfamily Mormyrinae and determine its phylogenetic position with respect to other taxa. We describe these three specimens as a new genus containing two new species. Cryptomyrus, new genus, is readily distinguished from all other mormyrid genera by a combination of features of squamation, morphometrics, and dental attributes. Cryptomyrus ogoouensis, new species, is differentiated from its single congener, Cryptomyrus ona, new species, by the possession of an anal-fin origin located well in advance of the dorsal fin, a narrow caudal peduncle and caudal-fin lobes nearly as long as the peduncle. In C. ona, the anal-fin origin is located only slightly in advance of the dorsal fin, the caudal peduncle is deep and the caudal-fin lobes considerably shorter than the peduncle. Continued discovery of new taxa within the “Lower Guinea Clade” of Mormyridae highlights the incompleteness of our knowledge of fish diversity in West-Central Africa. We present a revised key to the mormyrid genera of Lower Guinea.
["Weakly electric fish"]

Pempheris gasparinii, a new species of sweeper fish from Trindade Island, southwestern Atlantic (Teleostei, Pempheridae)
Pempheris gasparinii sp. n. is described from five specimens, 59.1–68.0 mm in standard length. It is only known to occur in the shallow reefs of Trindade Island, 1200 km east of the Brazilian coast, in the southwestern Atlantic. Pempheris gasparinii is the third recognized species of Pempheris in the Atlantic Ocean. This new species is morphologically similar to its close relative, P. poeyi, differing by the number of lateral-line scales (51–54 in P. gasparinii vs. 47–49 in P. poeyi), scales below lateral line (10–11 vs. 9), circumpeduncular scales (11–12 vs. 13), head and caudal peduncle lengths (2.7–3.3 vs 3.5–4.0 in head length). Moreover, Pempheris gasparinii shows a 4% genetic divergence from P. poeyi at the cytochrome oxidase I locus (COI), consistent with a lineage split at the beginning of the Pleistocene. This new species represents the 12th endemic fish species from Trindade Island.

Taxonomic revision of the tarantula genus Aphonopelma Pocock, 1901 (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Theraphosidae) within the United States
This systematic study documents the taxonomy, diversity, and distribution of the tarantula spider genus Aphonopelma Pocock, 1901 within the United States. By employing phylogenomic, morphological, and geospatial data, we evaluated all 55 nominal species in the United States to examine the evolutionary history of Aphonopelma and the group’s taxonomy by implementing an integrative approach to species delimitation. Based on our analyses, we now recognize only 29 distinct species in the United States. We propose 33 new synonymies (A. apacheum, A. minchi, A. rothi, A. schmidti, A. stahnkei = A. chalcodes; A. arnoldi = A. armada; A. behlei, A. vogelae = A. marxi; A. breenei = A. anax; A. chambersi, A. clarum, A. cryptethum, A. sandersoni, A. sullivani = A. eutylenum; A. clarki, A. coloradanum, A. echinum, A. gurleyi, A. harlingenum, A. odelli, A. waconum, A. wichitanum = A. hentzi; A. heterops = A. moderatum; A. jungi, A. punzoi = A. vorhiesi; A. brunnius, A. chamberlini, A. iviei, A. lithodomum, A. smithi, A. zionis = A. iodius; A. phanum, A. reversum = A. steindachneri), 14 new species (A. atomicum sp. n., A. catalina sp. n., A. chiricahua sp. n., A. icenoglei sp. n., A. johnnycashi sp. n., A. madera sp. n., A. mareki sp. n., A. moellendorfi sp. n., A. parvum sp. n., A. peloncillo sp. n., A. prenticei sp. n., A. saguaro sp. n., A. superstitionense sp. n., and A. xwalxwal sp. n.), and seven nomina dubia (A. baergi, A. cratium, A. hollyi, A. mordax, A. radinum, A. rusticum, A. texense). Our proposed species tree based on Anchored Enrichment data delimits five major lineages: a monotypic group confined to California, a western group, an eastern group, a group primarily distributed in high-elevation areas, and a group that comprises several miniaturized species. Multiple species are distributed throughout two biodiversity hotspots in the United States (i.e., California Floristic Province and Madrean Pine-Oak Woodlands). Keys are provided for identification of both males and females. By conducting the most comprehensive sampling of a single theraphosid genus to date, this research significantly broadens the scope of prior molecular and morphological investigations, finally bringing a modern understanding of species delimitation in this dynamic and charismatic group of spiders.

Ectomyelois Heinrich, 1956 in China, with descriptions of two new species and a key (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Phycitinae)
Only three species belonging to the genus Ectomyelois Heinrich, 1956 are recorded from China, of which two species, E. bipectinalis sp. n. and E. furvivena sp. n. are described as new. We discuss the status of Ectomyelois that has been treated as a junior synonym by previous authors; we treat it as a valid genus, revised status, based on characters of the venation and female genitalia. Photographs of the adults and illustrations of the genitalia are given, along with a key to the three known Chinese species.

A new interstitial ostracod species of the genus Paracobanocythere from Vietnam, with mitochondrial CO1 sequence data of three Asian species
This study is a first report of an interstitial ostracod from Southeast Asia. The ostracod species, Paracobanocythere vietnamensis sp. n., was found in the marine interstitial environment of Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam. Thus far, three species of this genus have been described. The morphology of the carapace as well as the appendages of this new species are quite similar to P. hawaiiensis and P. watanabei. However, we found that they could be easily distinguished according to the morphology of the male copulatory organ. Additionally, we estimated the evolutionary distances among these three species based on nucleotide and amino acid sequences of the mitochondrial CO1 gene. Similar morphologies of carapaces and appendages, and relatively small evolutionary distances according to CO1 between P. vietnamensis sp. n. and P. watanabei suggest that these two species are very closely related.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Two new species of Parapharyngodon parasites of Sceloporus pyrocephalus, with a key to the species found in Mexico (Nematoda, Pharyngodonidae)
Two new species of Parapharyngodon collected from the intestine of the Mexican boulder spiny lizard Sceloporus pyrocephalus are described. This study increases to 49 the number of valid species assigned to Parapharyngodon worldwide, 11 of them distributed in Mexico. Males of the two new species share the presence of four pairs of caudal papillae, an anterior echinate cloacal lip and the presence of lateral alae; however, both differ from each other in lateral alae extension and echinate cloacal anterior lip morphology. Females of both species have a prebulbar uterus and eggs shell punctuate with pores, characteristics shared with few other species of Parapharyngodon. Both new species differ from other congeneric species in the papillar arrangement, the anterior cloacal lip morphology, the lateral alae extension and total length/spicule ratio. A taxonomic key for the species of Parapharyngodon distributed in Mexico is provided.
["Helminth"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

On the synonymy of two Acantholycosa species (Araneae, Lycosidae) from the Altai
Two species previously known from East Kazakhstan, Acantholycosa katunensis Marusik, Azarkina & Koponen, 2004, known from the holotype male, and A. kurchumensis Marusik, Azarkina & Koponen, 2004, syn. n. known from females, are synonymized, and priority is given to A. katunensis. Acantholycosa katunensis is reported for the first time in the Russian Altai. Both sexes of this species are illustrated, and a distribution map is provided.

Drusus sharrensis sp. n. (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae), a new species from Sharr National Park in Kosovo, with molecular and ecological notes
In this paper we describe Drusus sharrensis sp. n., from the Sharr Mountains in Kosovo. Males of the new species are morphologically most similar to Drusus krusniki Malicky, 1981, D. kerek Oláh, 2011 and D. juliae Oláh, 2011 but differ mainly in exhibiting (1) a differently shaped spinose area on tergite VIII; (2) intermediate appendages anteriorly curved in lateral view with broad tips in dorsal view; (3) inferior appendages with a distinct dorsal protrusion in the proximal half. Females of the new species are morphologically most similar to D. krusniki, D. kerek, D. juliae, and D. plicatus Radovanovic, 1942 but mainly differ in (1) segment X that is longer than the supragenital plate with distinctly pointed tips; (2) supragenital plate quadrangular with a distinct round dorsal protrusion; (3) a vulvar scale with a small median lobe. Results of phylogenetic species delimitation support monophyly of Drusus sharrensis sp. n. and recover it as sister to a clade comprising (D. pelasgus Oláh, 2010 + D. juliae + D. arbanios Oláh, 2010 + D. plicatus + (D. dacothracus Oláh, 2010 + D. illyricus Oláh, 2010)). The new species is a micro-endemic of the Sharr Mountains, a main biodiversity hotspot in the Balkan Peninsula. Main threats to the aquatic ecosystems of this part of the Balkan Peninsula are discussed.
["Caddisfly"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Revision of Paranastatus Masi (Eupelmidae, Eupelminae) with descriptions of four new species
Paranastatus Masi, 1917 (Eupelmidae, Eupelminae) was originally described based on two species from Seychelles: P. egregius and P. violaceus. Eady (1956) subsequently described P. nigriscutellatus and P. verticalis from Fiji. Here, four new species of Paranastatus are described: P. bellus Scallion, sp. n. and P. pilosus Scallion, sp. n. from Indonesia, and P. halko Scallion, sp. n. and P. parkeri Scallion, sp. n. from Fiji. A key to all Paranastatus species based on females is included and lectotypes are designated for P. egregius and P. violaceus. Finally, previously unobserved colour variation from newly collected material of P. verticalis, distribution patterns of species, and possibilities for future research are discussed.
["Graeffea"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the subgenus Tinotus Sharp, stat. n., of the parasitoid rove-beetle genus Aleochara Gravenhorst (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae) from Japan, Taiwan, and the Russian Far East
The subgenus Tinotus Sharp, 1833, stat. n., of the genus Aleochara Gravenhorst, 1802 (Aleocharini: Aleocharina) from Japan, Taiwan, and the Russian Far East is revised. Tinotus is a new record from the latter two regions. Three species are recognized: Aleochara (Tinotus) morion Gravenhorst, 1802, comb. n. [Japan (new record), the Russian Far East (new record)], A. (T.) eoanom. n. [replacement name for Tinotus japonicus Cameron, 1933; Japan, Taiwan (new record)], and A. (T.) takashiisp. n. (central Honshû, Japan). The systematic position of Tinotus is discussed. All species are (re-)described, keyed, and figured. A world checklist of Tinotus species, comprising 40 valid species, is provided in an appendix. Additional taxonomic changes are proposed, including a new synonymy, a revalidation, 13 new replacement names, and 27 new combinations.
["Aleocharini"]

On the spider genus Arboricaria with the description of a new species (Araneae, Gnaphosidae)
The spider genus Arboricaria Bosmans, 2000 is redefined and an updated diagnosis given. The differences between Arboricaria and Micaria Westring, 1851 are discussed in detail. A key to all five species of the genus is provided. One new species, Arboricaria zonsteini sp. n. (♂♀), is described based on specimens from Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan. One new synonym is proposed: A. koeni Bosmans in Bosmans & Blick, 2000, syn. n. is assigned to A. sociabilis Kulczyński in Chyzer & Kulczyński, 1897. Data on the distribution of Arboricaria in Russia and adjacent countries are presented with references to the papers on local spider faunas.
["Spiders"]

Review of Afraustraloderes rassei Bouyer, 2012: description of its female and a new species of Pixodarus Fairmaire, 1887 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Prioninae)
The original description of Afraustraloderes rassei Bouyer, 2012 included a female that is now recognized as a separate species belonging to the genus Pixodarus and here described as P. spiniscapus sp. n. The true female of A. rassei has also been obtained recently and is, therefore, here described. The synonymy of P. exasperatus with P. nyassae, proposed earlier by Santos Ferreira (1980), is here supported. Conversely, the earlier inclusion of A. rassei in the tribe Hopliderini is rejected, on the basis of a key set of characters established by Quentin and Villiers (1972, 1975). Afraustraloderes rassei appears to be restricted to the Cape Floral Region, exhibiting larval development in trunks and roots of dead Proteaceae plants. Conversely, P. spiniscapus has so far only been recorded in the eastern part of South Africa and appears to be associated with bushveld vegetation.
["Hopliderini"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Three new species of Tricimba Lioy from the West Palaearctic region (Diptera, Chloropidae)
Tricimba rudolfi Kubík, sp. n. (Czech Republic, Portugal), Tricimba chalupi Kubík, sp. n. (Czech Republic), and Tricimba dursuni Kubík, sp. n. (Turkey) are described and illustrated. First records of Tricimba kaplanae Dely-Draskovits, 1983 from Corsica and Tricimba hungarica Dely-Draskovits, 1983 from Turkey are listed.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new species of Chaetaglaea (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Xylenini), from eastern North America
Chaetaglaea tremula (Harvey) occurs through the Gulf States, from southern Florida, west to eastern Texas. Coastal populations, previously referred to Chaetaglaea tremula occurring from the Carolinas, at least as far north as Massachusetts and shoreline dunes in southwestern Ontario are recognized as distinct and described here as Chaetaglaea rhonda. Adults and genitalia are illustrated for Chaetaglaea rhonda and Chaetaglaea tremula.
["Chaetaglaea"]

Beetle and plant arrow poisons of the Ju|’hoan and Hai||om San peoples of Namibia (Insecta, Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae; Plantae, Anacardiaceae, Apocynaceae, Burseraceae)
The use of archery to hunt appears relatively late in human history. It is poorly understood but the application of poisons to arrows to increase lethality must have occurred shortly after developing bow hunting methods; these early multi-stage transitions represent cognitive shifts in human evolution. This paper is a synthesis of widely-scattered literature in anthropology, entomology, and chemistry, dealing with San (“Bushmen”) arrow poisons. The term San (or Khoisan) covers many indigenous groups using so-called ‘click languages’ in southern Africa. Beetles are used for arrow poison by at least eight San groups and one non-San group. Fieldwork and interviews with Ju|’hoan and Hai||om hunters in Namibia revealed major differences in the nature and preparation of arrow poisons, bow and arrow construction, and poison antidote. Ju|’hoan hunters use leaf-beetle larvae of Diamphidia Gerstaecker and Polyclada Chevrolat (Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) collected from soil around the host plants Commiphora africana (A. Rich.) Engl. and Commiphora angolensis Engl. (Burseracaeae). In the Nyae Nyae area of Namibia, Ju|’hoan hunters use larvae of Diamphidia nigroornata Ståhl. Larvae and adults live above-ground on the plants and eat leaves, but the San collect the underground cocoons to extract the mature larvae. Larval hemolymph is mixed with saliva and applied to arrows. Hai||om hunters boil the milky plant sap of Adenium bohemianum Schinz (Apocynaceae) to reduce it to a thick paste that is applied to their arrows. The socio-cultural, historical, and ecological contexts of the various San groups may determine differences in the sources and preparation of poisons, bow and arrow technology, hunting behaviors, poison potency, and perhaps antidotes.
["Hunting"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Faunistic and bibliographical inventory of the Psychodinae moth-flies of North Africa (Diptera, Psychodidae)
All published records for the 49 species of moth flies known from North Africa are reviewed and discussed: Morocco (27 species), Algeria (33 species), Tunisia (18 species) and Egypt (five species). In addition, records of seven species of Psychodinae new to the fauna of Morocco are added, of which three are new mentions for North Africa (Table 1) and one is a new record for Egypt. Telmatoscopus squamifer Tonnoir, 1922 is transferred to the genus Iranotelmatoscopus Ježek, 1987, comb. n. Satchelliella reghayana Boumezzough & Vaillant, 1987 is transferred to the genus Pneumia Enderlein, 1935, comb. n. Pneumia aberrans Tonnoir, 1922 is transferred to the subgenus Logima.
["Moth-flies"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Overview of the genus Briareum (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Briareidae) in the Indo-Pacific, with the description of a new species
The status of Indo-Pacific Briareum species (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Briareidae) is reviewed by presenting their sclerite features and habitus descriptions. Following the re-examination of type material, museum specimens and newly collected specimens, a species identification key is provided. The species distributions are discussed and updated distribution ranges are depicted. Moreover, a new taxon, B. cylindrum sp. n. is described and depicted, whereas B. excavatum (Nutting, 1911) is synonymised with B. stechei (Kükenthal, 1908). Briareum hamrum (Gohar, 1948) is recorded from the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea for the first time. Consequently, in total four Briareum species are recognized in the Indo-Pacific; B. hamrum from the western Indian Ocean, and B. cylindrum sp. n., B. stechei, and B. violaceum from the central and eastern Indo-Pacific region.

A new species of Eutettix (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae) from Wisconsin
Eutettix latoides sp. n., is described from central Wisconsin. It most closely resembles the Californian species E. latus Hepner, and was collected from Quercus ellipsoidalis.
["Leafhopper"]

Systematic revision of the Taiwanese genus Kurixalus members with a description of two new endemic species (Anura, Rhacophoridae)
Two new species of rhacophorid tree frog were identified in Taiwan. In both new taxa, derived reproductive characteristics of laying eggs in tree holes and oophagous tadpoles are shared with Kurixalus eiffingeri, but they are divergent from each other in molecular genetics, mating calls, and tadpole and adult morphology. The morphological characteristics and the molecular phylogenetic evidence support the hypothesis that the two new species, Kurixalus berylliniris sp. n. and Kurixalus wangi sp. n., are both monophyletic lineages.
["Kurixalus berylliniris sp. n."]

A new species of the genus Timalinyssus Mironov, 2001 (Acarina, Psoroptidia) with a key to known species
The article describes a new species of the feather mite family Pteronyssidae (Acarina: Psoroptidia) from the Gray Sibia Heterophasia gracilis (McClelland) (Passeriformes, Leiothrichidae) in India (Meghalaya, Jaintia Hills, Shnongrim village). Males of Timalinyssus wahlangi sp. n. differ from those of all Timalinyssus species by having the horseshoe-shaped epiandrum with a short anterior extension. Females of the new species differ from those of all previously known species of the genus in having the hysteronotal shield with deep lateral incisions between e2 and f2 setae. A key to all species of the genus Timalinyssus is presented.
["Pteronyssidae"]

A revision of Megalocraerus Lewis, 1902 (Coleoptera, Histeridae: Exosternini)
The formely monotypic Neotropical genus Megalocraerus Lewis is revised to include five species, known from southeastern Brazil to Costa Rica: M. rubricatus Lewis, M. mandibularis sp. n., M. chico sp. n., M. madrededios sp. n., and M. tiputini sp. n. We describe the species, map their distributions, and provide a key for their identification. Their subcylindrical body form and emarginate mesosternum have previously hindered placement to tribe, although their curent assignment to Exosternini now appears well supported by morphological evidence. Nothing is known of the natural history of the species.
["Histeridae"]

Revision of the Australian species of the weevil genus Trigonopterus Fauvel
The Australian species of the genus Trigonopterus Fauvel are revised. Eight previously recognized species are redescribed and 24 additional new species are described: T. allaetus Riedel, sp. n., T. athertonensis Riedel, sp. n., T. australinasutus Riedel, sp. n., T. australis Riedel, sp. n., T. bisignatus Riedel, sp. n., T. bisinuatus Riedel, sp. n., T. boolbunensis Riedel, sp. n., T. cooktownensis Riedel, sp. n., T. daintreensis Riedel, sp. n., T. deplanatus Riedel, sp. n., T. finniganensis Riedel, sp. n., T. fraterculus Riedel, sp. n., T. garradungensis Riedel, sp. n., T. hasenpuschi Riedel, sp. n., T. hartleyensis Riedel, sp. n., T. kurandensis Riedel, sp. n., T. lewisensis Riedel, sp. n., T. montanus Riedel, sp. n., T. monteithi Riedel, sp. n., T. mossmanensis Riedel, sp. n., T. oberprieleri Riedel, sp. n., T. robertsi Riedel, sp. n., T. terraereginae Riedel, sp. n., T. yorkensis Riedel, sp. n.. All new species are authored by the taxonomist-in-charge, Alexander Riedel. Lectotypes are designated for the following names: Idotasia aequalis Pascoe, I. albidosparsa Lea, I. evanida Pascoe, I. laeta Lea, I. rostralis Lea, I. sculptirostris Lea, I. squamosa Lea. A new combination of the name Idotasia striatipennis Lea is proposed: Trigonopterus striatipennis (Lea), comb. n.. A key to the species is provided. Australian Trigonopterus occur in coastal Queensland, narrowly crossing into New South Wales. The southern parts of the range are inhabited by species found on foliage. A rich fauna of 19 edaphic species inhabiting the leaf litter of tropical forests is reported for the first time from the Australian Wet Tropics.
["Australian Wet Tropics"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Depreissia decipiens, an enigmatic canopy spider from Borneo revisited (Araneae, Salticidae), with remarks on the distribution and diversity of canopy spiders in Sabah, Borneo
Depreissia is a little known genus comprising two hymenopteran-mimicking species, one found in Central Africa and one in the north of Borneo. The male of D. decipiens is redescribed, the female is described for the first time. The carapace is elongated, dorsally flattened and rhombus-shaped, the rear of the thorax laterally depressed and transformed, with a pair of deep pits; the pedicel is almost as long as the abdomen. The male palp is unusual, characterized by the transverse deeply split membranous tegulum separating a ventral part which bears a sclerotized tegular apophysis and a large dagger-like retrodirected median apophysis. The female epigyne consists of one pair of large adjacent spermathecae and very long copulatory ducts arising posteriorly and rising laterally alongside the spermathecae continuing in several vertical and horizontal coils over the anterior surface. Relationships within the Salticidae are discussed and an affinity with the Cocalodinae is suggested. Arguments are provided for a hypothesis that D. decipiens is not ant-mimicking as was previously believed, but is a mimic of polistinine wasps. The species was found in the canopy in the Kinabalu area only, in primary and old secondary rainforest at 200–700 m.a.s.l. Overlap of canopy-dwelling spider species with those in the understorey are discussed and examples of species richness and endemism in the canopy are highlighted. Canopy fogging is a very efficient method of collecting for most arthropods. The canopy fauna adds an extra dimension to the known biodiversity of the tropical rainforest. In southeast Asia, canopy research has been neglected, inhibiting evaluation of comparative results of this canopy project with that from other regions. More use of fogging as a collecting method would greatly improve insight into the actual species richness and species distribution in general.
["Jumping spiders"]

Records of Hedotettix and Teredorus in Thailand with the description of three new species (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae)
We are studying the fungi associated with insects in northern Thailand and as a result several rarely collected insect species have been uncovered. The genera Hedotettix with one new species and Teredorus with two new species are reported from Thailand. Hedotettix triangularis Zha & Hyde, sp. n., Teredorus chiangraiensis Zha & Hyde, sp. n. and Teredorus combfemorus Zha & Hyde, sp. n. are introduced, described and photographed and compared with other species. Keys to species of Hedotettix and Teredorus from Thailand are provided.
["Tetriginae"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Mayflies, stoneflies, and caddisflies of streams and marshes of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, USA
United States National Parks have protected natural communities for one hundred years. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore (INDU) is a park unit along the southern boundary of Lake Michigan in Indiana, USA. An inventory of 19 sites, consisting of a seep, 12 streams, four marshes, a bog, and a fen were examined for mayflies (Ephemeroptera), stoneflies (Plecoptera), and caddisflies (Trichoptera) (EPT taxa). Volunteers and authors collect 35 ultraviolet light traps during summer 2013 and supplementary benthic and adult sampling added species not attracted by lights or that were only present in colder months. Seventy-eight EPT species were recovered: 12 mayflies, two stoneflies, and 64 caddisflies. The EPT richness found at INDU was a low proportion of the number of species known from Indiana: caddisflies contributed only 32.7% of known state fauna, mayflies and stoneflies contributed 8.4% and 2.3%, respectively. Site EPT richness ranged from one for a seep to 34 for an 8 m-wide stream. Richness in streams generally increased with stream size. Seven new state records and rare species are reported. The number of EPT species at INDU is slightly larger than that found at Isle Royale National Park in 2013, and the community composition and evenness between orders were different.
["Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore"]

GPS tracking data of Lesser Black-backed Gulls and Herring Gulls breeding at the southern North Sea coast
In this data paper, Bird tracking - GPS tracking of Lesser Black-backed Gulls and Herring Gulls breeding at the southern North Sea coast is described, a species occurrence dataset published by the Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO). The dataset (version 5.5) contains close to 2.5 million occurrences, recorded by 101 GPS trackers mounted on 75 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 26 Herring Gulls breeding at the Belgian and Dutch coast. The trackers were developed by the University of Amsterdam Bird Tracking System (UvA-BiTS, http://www.uva-bits.nl). These automatically record and transmit bird movements, which allows us and others to study their habitat use and migration behaviour in great detail. Our bird tracking network is operational since 2013. It is funded for LifeWatch by the Hercules Foundation and maintained in collaboration with UvA-BiTS and the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ). The recorded data are periodically released in bulk as open data (http://dataset.inbo.be/bird-tracking-gull-occurrences), and are also accessible through CartoDB and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF).
["animal movement"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Remote Sensing and LiDAR Applications"]

A new monster from southwest Oregon forests: Cryptomaster behemoth sp. n. (Opiliones, Laniatores, Travunioidea)
The monotypic genus Cryptomaster Briggs, 1969 was described based on individuals from a single locality in southwestern Oregon. The described species C. leviathan Briggs, 1969 was named for its large body size compared to most travunioid Laniatores. However, as the generic name suggests, Cryptomaster are notoriously difficult to find, and few subsequent collections have been recorded for this genus. Here, we increase sampling of Cryptomaster to 15 localities, extending their known range from the Coast Range northeast to the western Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequence data reveal deep phylogenetic breaks consistent with independently evolving lineages. We use discovery and validation species delimitation approaches to generate and test species hypotheses, including a coalescent species delimitation method to test multi-species hypotheses. For delimited species, we use light microscopy and SEM to discover diagnostic morphological characters. Although Cryptomaster has a small geographic distribution, this taxon is consistent with other short-range endemics in having deep phylogenetic breaks indicative of species level divergences. Herein we describe Cryptomaster behemoth sp. n., and provide morphological diagnostic characters for identifying C. leviathan and C. behemoth.
["Short-Range Endemic"]

A new species of Liolaemus related to L. nigroviridis from the Andean highlands of Central Chile (Iguania, Liolaemidae)
The Liolaemus nigroviridis group is a clade of highland lizards endemic to Chile. These species are distributed from northern to central Chile, and currently there are no cases of sympatric distribution. This study describes a new species, Liolaemus uniformis sp. n., from this group, and provides a detailed morphological characterization and mitochondrial phylogeny using cytochrome-b. Liolaemus uniformis was found in sympatry with L. nigroviridis but noticeably differed in size, scalation, and markedly in the color pattern, without sexual dichromatism. This new species has probably been confused with L. monticola and L. bellii, both of which do not belong to the nigroviridis group. The taxonomic issues of this group that remain uncertain are also discussed.
["Liolaemus"]

A new genus and species of arboreal toad with phytotelmonous larvae, from the Andaman Islands, India (Lissamphibia, Anura, Bufonidae)
A new bufonid amphibian, belonging to a new monotypic genus, is described from the Andaman Islands, in the Bay of Bengal, Republic of India, based on unique external morphological and skeletal characters which are compared with those of known Oriental and other relevant bufonid genera. Blythophryne gen. n. is distinguished from other bufonid genera by its small adult size (mean SVL 24.02 mm), the presence of six presacral vertebrae, an absence of coccygeal expansions, presence of an elongated pair of parotoid glands, expanded discs at digit tips and phytotelmonous tadpoles that lack oral denticles. The taxonomic and phylogenetic position of the new taxon (that we named as Blythophryne beryet gen. et sp. n.) was ascertained by comparing its 12S and 16S partial genes with those of Oriental and other relevant bufonid lineages. Resulting molecular phylogeny supports the erection of a novel monotypic genus for this lineage from the Andaman Islands of India.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new genus and nine new species of Eugnomini (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) from New Caledonia
The genus Rasilinus gen. n. is described (type species Rasilinus tchambicus sp. n.). Nine new species: Rasilinus bicolor sp. n., R. bifurcatus sp. n., R. bimaculatus sp. n., R. grandidens sp. n., R. longulus sp. n., R. subgemellus sp. n., R. subnodulus sp. n., R. tchambicus sp. n., R. virgatus sp. n. are described from New Caledonia. Illustrations of the external morphology, male and female terminalia, dorsal habitus colour photographs of the adults, key to species and distribution map of the new genus Rasilinus are provided.

Two new Megalothorax species of the minimus group (Collembola, Neelidae)
Two new Megalothorax species, M. potapovi sp. n. from the Russian Far East and M. sanguineus sp. n. from the French Pyrénées are described. The two new species have a set of morphological characters (including a smooth mucro) that places them among the minimus group sensuSchneider and D’Haese (2013). Megalothorax potapovi characteristics include dorsal protuberance on forehead, peculiar chaetotaxy of antenna III and strong lanceolate chaetae on body. Megalothorax sanguineus characteristics include strong red pigmentation, large network of integumentary channels on head and elongated apex of the two postero-distal spines of dens. The DNA barcodes (cytochrome oxidase subunit I–COI) of the two species are also provided and analyzed among a broader sampling of the genus in order to support further their specific status. A special focus is given to the labral morphological characteristics. Pseudopores-like elements are reported for the first time in the genus. Positions of the τ-chaetae near the dorsal sensory field of thorax II are compared for several species of the genus.
["Springtails"]

Taxonomic review of the genus Teliphasa Moore, 1888 from China, with descriptions of four new species (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Epipaschiinae)
The genus Teliphasa Moore, 1888 from China is reviewed. Nine species are treated, including descriptions of four new species: Teliphasa spinosa Li, sp. n., T. similalbifusa Li, sp. n., T. erythrina Li, sp. n., and T. hamata Li, sp. n. Photographs of adults, wing venation, and both male and female genitalia are provided, along with a key for the identification of all the Chinese species.

A new, widely distributed species of the Exocelina ekari-group from West Papua (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Exocelina manokwariensis sp. n. from West Papua is placed into the E. ekari-group based on the structure of its male genitalia. The new species is described, including its three subspecies, from the mainland of West Papua, Waigeo Island, Batanta and Salawati Islands, and Bomberai peninsula. An identification key to the subspecies as well as data on species distribution are provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

A new species of open-air processional column termite, Hospitalitermes nigriantennalis sp. n. (Termitidae), from Borneo
A new species of open-air processional column termite is here described based on the soldier and worker castes from eight colonies in north Barito, central Kalimantan. Hospitalitermes nigriantennalis sp. n. is readily distinguished in the field from related Hospitalitermes spp. by the light brown to orangish coloration of the soldier head capsule that, further, is with vertex yellowish and nasus brownish. The soldier antenna and the maxillary and labial palps are blackish. By contrast, soldiers from other species of Hospitalitermes from this region have a uniformly black head capsule and antennae. Finally, H. nigriantennalis sp. n. has a minute indentation in the middle of the posterior part of head capsule, which further helps to differentiate this new species from other Hospitalitermes from the Indo-Malayan and Austro-Malayan regions.
["Termite"]

Annotated checklist of marine fishes from the Sanctuary of Bahía Chamela, Mexico with occurrence and biogeographic data
An annotated checklist of marine fishes of the Sanctuary of Islands and Islets of Bahía Chamela in the central Mexican Pacific is presented. Records of fish species were obtained by different methods including visual census, sampling with anesthetics, fisherman-nets, and trawling with a biological dredge. Additional records were obtained from natural history collections and publications. The list comprises 196 species in 64 families and 141 genera. The Carangidae is the most speciose family with 11 species, followed by the Labridae with 10 and the Pomacentridae with nine. Fourteen species are endemic in Mexican Pacific waters, but none is restricted to Bahía Chamela. The most dominant species recorded during underwater surveys were Epinephelus labriformis, Stegastes flavilatus, and Halichoeres dispilus. Most species are of tropical affinities distributed throughout the tropical eastern Pacific (123), eastern Pacific (23), and Mexican Pacific (14). Other species are known from the eastern and Indo-Pacific regions (18), eastern Pacific and western Atlantic oceans (2), and some are circumtropical (9). A new record of the Gulf Brotula Ogilbia ventralis is provided for the Bahía Chamela and its geographical distribution is extended to Mexican central Pacific.
["Species richness"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Denopelopia amicitia, a new Tanypodinae from Brazil (Diptera, Chironomidae)
A new species of Denopelopia from Brazil is described based on adult male and pupa. The male of the new species can be distinguished from all other species of the genus by the genitalia and fore-tibial spur morphology. The pupa is very similar to those of D. atria, but it can be distinguished by the absence of distinct constrictions in the respiratory atrium of the thoracic horn. Generic diagnosis to male and pupa of Denopelopia is emended and keys to male and pupae of known species are provided.
["Tanypodinae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Endonura Cassagnau in Iran, with a key to species of the genus (Collembola, Neanuridae, Neanurinae)
Three new species of Endonura are described from Iran. Endonura dichaeta sp. n. can be recognized by an ogival labrum, head without chaetae O and E, chaeta D connected with tubercle Cl, tubercle Dl with five chaetae on head, absence of tubercles Di on thorax I and tubercle (Di+Di) of thorax V with 2+2 chaetae. Endonura ceratolabralis sp. n. is characterized by large body size, reduction of labral chaetotaxy, ogival labrum, head without chaeta O and fusion of tubercles Di and De on first thoracic segment. Endonura persica sp. n. is distinguished from its congeners by a nonogival labrum, absence of chaeta O, tubercles Dl and (L+So) with five and eight chaetae respectively and claw with inner tooth. The key to all species of the genus is given.
["Springtails"]

Revision of the wingless Sikkimia Duvivier (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae) from Taiwan, including a new generic synonymy and four new species descriptions
The genus Taiwanolepta Kimoto, 1989 (type species T. babai Kimoto, 1989) is proposed as a junior synonym of Sikkimia Duvivier, 1891. Sikkimia species from Taiwan form a group characterized by the reduction of their hind wings. Most of them cannot be distinguished using external morphology, except by the structure of last two antennomeres in males. Diagnoses are made by using distribution, aedeagal, and gonocoxal morphology. The group includes one previously described species, Sikkimia babai (Kimoto, 1989), comb. n., and four new species, S. meihuai sp. n., S. sufangae sp. n., S. tsoui sp. n., and S. yuae sp. n. Speciation models, supporting the high diversity of Sikkimia species in Taiwan, are discussed. Sikkimia metallica Jacoby, 1903 and S. tamra Maulik, 1936, both from southern India, are transferred to the genus Cerophysa Chevrolat, 1836.

A new quadrannulate species of Orobdella (Hirudinida, Arhynchobdellida, Orobdellidae) from western Honshu, Japan
A new quadrannulate species of Orobdella Oka, 1895, Orobdella naraharaetmagarum sp. n., from the mountainous region of western Honshu, Japan is described. Orobdella naraharaetmagarum is a small species with a body length of less than 5 cm. Phylogenetic analyses using nuclear 18S rRNA and histone H3, as well as mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, tRNACys, tRNAMet, 12S rRNA, tRNAVal, 16S rRNA, tRNALeu and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 markers indicated that the present new species is the sister species of the quadrannulate Orobdella esulcata Nakano, 2010. Furthermore, mitochondrial DNA genealogy within O. naraharaetmagarum demonstrated that this new species is divided into eastern and western lineages.
["Hirudinea"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of Agelas from the Zanzibar Archipelago, western Indian Ocean (Porifera, Demospongiae)
A new sponge species (Demospongiae: Agelasida: Agelasidae) is described from the eastern coast of Unguja Island in the Zanzibar Archipelago. Agelas sansibarica sp. n. is compared to all other Agelas species described so far. The new species differs from its congeners mainly in its three categories of verticillate spicules (acanthostyles, acanthostrongyles, and acanthoxeas) and their sizes. Acanthostrongyles, well represented in the spicular complement, are an exclusive trait of the new species widening the morphological range of the genus. Summarizing on spicular complement and spicular morphotraits of 36 species belonging to the genus Agelas: i) 32 species show only acanthostyles from Indo-Pacific (n = 14), Atlantic (n = 17), and Mediterranean (n = 1); ii) three Indo-Pacific species show acanthostyles and acanthoxeas; iii) one species A. sansibarica sp. n. from the western Indian Ocean is characterised by the unique trait of three categories of verticillate spicules (acanthostyles, acanthostrongyles and acanthoxeas). A key for the Indo-Pacific species is supplied together with short descriptions, illustrations, and geographic range; literature on chemical bioprospecting of the genus Agelas is also provided.
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis"]

New records of Protura (Entognatha, Arthropoda) from Romania, with an identification key to the Romanian species
The Romanian Protura were studied based on 175 specimens collected from Romania, along with bibliographic data. The main publication on the Romanian proturans was written by M.A. Ionescu (1951), who described 13 species mainly from soil and forest litter from 15 collecting points. The current paper represents the first study at a national level. Faunal data on Protura were obtained from 22 sites, mostly from forests of the Romanian Carpathians and also from a peri-urban area of Bucharest, which had not been studied before. As a result, the Romanian Protura fauna now consists of 27 known taxa in 6 genera and 4 families. Of the 27 taxa, 15 species are new records for Romanian fauna. An identification key to the Romanian Protura species is provided.
["Protura"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

New record and redescription of Calanopia thompsoni A. Scott, 1909 (Copepoda, Calanoida, Pontellidae) from the Red Sea, with notes on the taxonomic status of C. parathompsoni Gaudy, 1969 and a key to species
During a plankton sampling programme around Al-Wajh area, Saudi Arabian coast of the northern Red Sea, a copepod Calanopia thompsoni A. Scott, 1909 (Calanoida: Pontellidae) was reported for the first time in the Red Sea. Both sexes are fully redescribed and compared to previous descriptions as well as the closely related species, Calanopia parathompsoni. The zoogeographical distribution of the species confirms that it is of Indo-Pacific origin. A dichotomous key for the identification of males and females of the species of Calanopia is included.
["New record"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Nylanderia deceptrix sp. n., a new species of obligately socially parasitic formicine ant (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Obligately socially parasitic ants are social parasites that typically lack the sterile worker caste, and depend on the host species for survival and brood care. The genus Nylanderia has over 130 described species and subspecies, none of which, until this study, were known social parasites. Here we describe the first social parasite known in the genus, Nylanderia deceptrix. Aspects of the biology of the host species, Nylanderia parvula (Mayr 1870), and N. deceptrix are examined. The data from both the host and the parasite species are combined to better understand the host-parasite relationship.

Dataset of Passerine bird communities in a Mediterranean high mountain (Sierra Nevada, Spain)
In this data paper, a dataset of passerine bird communities is described in Sierra Nevada, a Mediterranean high mountain located in southern Spain. The dataset includes occurrence data from bird surveys conducted in four representative ecosystem types of Sierra Nevada from 2008 to 2015. For each visit, bird species numbers as well as distance to the transect line were recorded. A total of 27847 occurrence records were compiled with accompanying measurements on distance to the transect and animal counts. All records are of species in the order Passeriformes. Records of 16 different families and 44 genera were collected. Some of the taxa in the dataset are included in the European Red List. This dataset belongs to the Sierra Nevada Global-Change Observatory (OBSNEV), a long-term research project designed to compile socio-ecological information on the major ecosystem types in order to identify the impacts of global change in this area.
["Passerines"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Two new species of spotted Hypancistrus from the Rio Negro drainage (Loricariidae, Hypostominae)
Two new species, Hypancistrus phantasma and Hypancistrus margaritatus, are described based on material from the Rio Negro drainage. Both species are distinguished from congeners by unique color patterns. Hypancistrus phantasma is described from the Rio Uaupes and differs from congeners by having a tan body with small dark spots (vs. dark with light spots or with saddles or stripes). Hypancistrus margaritatus is described from the Takutu River and differs from congeners by having densely-packed light spots on a dark brown background, with spots about the size of the nasal aperture (vs. sparse light spots either smaller or larger than the nasal aperture, or brown to black spots, saddles, or stripes).
["Siluriformes"]

Further contributions to the longhorn beetle (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) fauna of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada
Sixteen species of Cerambycidae are newly recorded for New Brunswick, Canada; Arhopalus obsoletus (Randall), Atimia confusa confusa (Say), Callidium frigidum Casey, Phymatodes amoenus (Say), P. testaceus (Linnaeus), Neoclytus mucronatus mucronatus (Fabricius), Xylotrechus aceris Fisher, X. sagittatus sagittatus (Germar), Tylonotus bimaculatus Haldeman, Lepturges angulatus (LeConte), L. symmetricus (Haldeman), Urgleptes querci (Fitch), Oplosia nubila (LeConte), Eupogonius subarmatus (LeConte), Monochamus carolinensis (Olivier), and Pogonocherus parvulus LeConte. Urgleptes signatus (LeConte) and U. querci are newly recorded from Nova Scotia. All but two specimens were collected in 12-funnel Lindgren traps. Xylotrechus aceris, T. bimaculatus, L. angulatus, L. symmetricus, U. signatus (NS), and P. parvulus were detected exclusively in traps deployed in the forest canopy, and most individuals of O. nubila and M. carolinensis were captured in canopy traps. Arhopalus obsoletus, A. c. confusa, C. frigidum, P. testaceus, and X. s. sagittatus were captured almost exclusively in traps near (1 m above) the forest floor. These results highlight the importance of sampling both the understory and upper canopy when using traps for surveying diversity of Cerambycidae.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Revision of the subgenus Orthoscymnus Canepari of Scymnus Kugelann (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae), with descriptions of four new species
The subgenus Orthoscymnus Canepari, 1997 of Scymnus Kugelann, 1794 is herein revised. Seven species of the Orthoscymnus fauna are recognized, of which four species, Scymnus (O.) jilongicussp. n., S. (O.) paradoxussp. n., S. (O.) crispatussp. n. and S. (O.) duomaculatussp. n., are described as new to science. Scymnus (O.) rhododendri Canepari is recorded from China for the first time. Scymnus (Pullus) robustibasalis Yu is transferred to the subgenus Orthoscymnus (comb. n.). All species are diagnosed, described and illustrated, and distributions are provided for each species. A key to the species is included.

Seven species new to science and one newly recorded species of the ant genus Myrmica Latreille, 1804 from China, with proposal of a new synonym (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Seven new species of the genus Myrmica Latreille, 1804 are described from China: M. dongi sp. n., M. huaii sp. n., M. liui sp. n., M. mifui sp. n., M. oui sp. n., M. wangi sp. n. and M. yani sp. n. Myrmica forcipata Karawaiew, 1931 is recorded from China for the first time, while M. zhengi Ma & Xu, 2011 is synonymized with M. luteola Kupyanskaya, 1990. Identification keys based on worker caste are provided to the Myrmica species of China and the pachei-group species of the Old World, respectively.

Leptanilla hypodracos sp. n., a new species of the cryptic ant genus Leptanilla (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Singapore, with new distribution data and an updated key to Oriental Leptanilla species
A new species of the cryptic and rarely collected ant genus Leptanilla is described. Leptanilla hypodracos sp. n. is the first Leptanilla recorded from Singapore in over a century since L. havilandi Forel, 1901 and represents the fourth species of Leptanilla known from the Malay Peninsula. An updated key to the Leptanilla of the Oriental region is presented. Taxonomic comparisons between L. hypodracos sp. n. and four morphologically similar species are provided with particular attention given to L. clypeata Yamane & Ito, 2001, for which new measurements and indices are presented. The first report is presented for the Leptanillinae subfamily from the southeastern part of China with a worker of the genus Leptanilla collected in Hong Kong. Finally, the potential of subterranean bait to collect Leptanilla species is discussed.
["Leptanilla"]

New species of the genus Mahinda Krombein, 1983 (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae, Amiseginae)
Three new species of Mahinda are described, bo from Vietnam, borneensis from Malaysian Borneo and sulawesiensis from northern Sulawesi. A key to the three known species is provided including the previously described species, saltator Krombein, 1983.
["Atoposega"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Description of a new species of the genus Laelaspis Berlese (Acari, Mesostigmata, Laelapidae) from Iran
A new species of the genus Laelaspis Berlese, L. elongatus sp. n. is described based on adult female and male specimens collected in association with Pheidole pallidula (Nylander) (Hym., Formicidae) in Ahwaz, Khuzestan Province, southwestern Iran, and also Acinopus (Acinopus) picipes (Olivier) (Col., Carabidae) in Bam, Kerman Province, southeastern Iran.
["Parasitiformes"]

A new species of Docosia Winnertz from Central Europe, with DNA barcoding based on four gene markers (Diptera, Mycetophilidae)
A new species of Docosia Winnertz, D. dentata sp. n., is described and illustrated, based on a single male specimen collected in Muránska planina National Park in Central Slovakia. DNA sequences (COI, COII, CytB, and ITS2) are included and compared for 13 species of Docosia. There was found only little congruence between the molecular results and previous scarce data about interspecific relationships based on morphology. The COI and CytB gene markers showed the highest interspecific gene distances while ITS2 showed the lowest ones. An updated key to the 23 Central European species of Docosia is also presented.
["Bibionomorpha"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Phylogenetic placement of the unusual jumping spider Depreissia Lessert, and a new synapomorphy uniting Hisponinae and Salticinae (Araneae, Salticidae)
The relationships of the unusual salticid spider Depreissia from central Africa and Borneo have been difficult to resolve, obscured by its highly modified ant-like body. Phylogenetic analysis of the gene 28S strongly supports its placement outside the major clade Salticinae and within the clade of cocalodines, spartaeines and lapsiines, with weaker support for a relationship with the cocalodines in particular. Excluding the genus from the Salticinae is supported also by the presence of a median apophysis on the male palp, and by the lack of a cymbial apical groove cradling the tip of embolus, which is newly presented here as a synapomorphy of Hisponinae plus Salticinae.
["Jumping spiders"]

A new genus and species of Laelapidae from Iran with notes on Gymnolaelaps Berlese and Laelaspisella Marais & Loots (Acari, Mesostigmata)
Pogonolaelaps gen. n. a new genus of Laelapidae Berlese is erected and described based on P. canestrinii (Berlese), comb. n. as well as on specimens which were collected from soil and ant nests in different parts of Iran. Also, a new species Pogonolaelaps beaulieui sp. n. is described based on specimens collected from soil, litter and ant nests in various parts of Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari province, Iran. The genus Gymnolaelaps is revised considering species with some morphological deviations. Gymnolaelaps reniculus (Karg, 1981) and Gymnolaelaps triquetrus (Karg, 2003) are removed from this genus and placed in their original genus Pseudoparasitus. The characters of Laelaspisella Marais & Loots, 1969 are discussed in a detail along with a proposal of a new definition.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Mysmenidae, a spider family newly recorded from Tibet (Arachnida, Araneae)
The spider family Mysmenidae is reported from Tibet for the first time. Two new species, Chanea voluta sp. n. (male and female) and Mysmena lulanga sp. n. (male and female) are found in eastern Tibet in high altitude. Morphological descriptions, diagnoses and comparative photos are provided for the two new species.

An illustrated key to the cuckoo wasps (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae) of the Nordic and Baltic countries, with description of a new species
The Chrysididae are a group of cleptoparasitic and parasitoid aculeate wasps with a large number of rare and endangered species. The taxonomy of this group has long been confusing due to the similarity of species and extensive intraspecific variation. We present for the first time a comprehensive dichotomous key for all 74 species found in the Nordic and Baltic countries. In addition to diagnostic characters, information on the distribution and biology of each species is also presented. A new species, Chrysis borealis Paukkunen, Ødegaard & Soon, sp. n. is described on the basis of specimens collected from Fennoscandia. Chrysis gracillima Förster, 1853 is recorded as new to the Nordic and Baltic countries.

Biology and phenology of three leaf beetle species (Chrysomelidae) in a montane forest in southeast Brazil*
The population phenology of the cassidines, Coptocycla arcuata and Omaspides trichroa, and the chrysomeline, Platyphora axillaris, was studied at Serra dos Órgãos National Park, State of Rio de Janeiro, southeast Brazil. Monthly surveys of larvae and adults were conducted between 2008 and 2011 at approximately 1000 m altitude on their respective host plants, Cordia polycephala (Boraginaceae), Ipomoea philomega (Convolvulaceae) and Solanum scuticum (Solanaceae). This is the first observation of larviparity and host record for P. axillaris. Although having different life history traits, all species showed similar phenologies. They were abundant from October to March, months of high temperatures and intense rainfall, with two distinct reproductive peaks in the same season. Abundance dropped abruptly during the coldest and driest months, from May to August. Frequently none of these species were recorded during June and July. This phenological pattern is similar to other Chrysomelidae living in subtropical areas of Brazil. Temperature and rainfall appear to be the major factors influencing the fluctuation of these three species.
["Population fluctuation"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of “Phyllobrotica” from Taiwan with description of Jolibrotica gen. n. (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae)
All Taiwanese species formerly classified the genus Phyllobrotica Chevrolat, 1836 are revised. Jolibrotica Lee & Bezděk, gen. n., is described for Phyllobrotica sauteri (Chûjô, 1935) (Taiwan, China: Guangxi) and P. chujoi Kimoto, 1969 (Taiwan). Phyllobrotica shirozui Kimoto, 1969 is transferred to the genus Haplosomoides. All species are redescribed and their diagnostic characters illustrated.
["Jolibrotica gen. n."]

Revision of the Afrotropical genus Notomela Jacoby, 1899 with description of N. joliveti sp. n. from Principe Island (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
The Afrotropical flea beetle genus Notomela Jacoby, 1899 is reviewed. Notomela joliveti sp.n. from Principe Island is described. The following new synonymies are established: N. cyanipennis Jacoby, 1899 = N. viridipennis Bryant, 1941, syn. n. = N. cyanipennis macrosoma Bechyné, 1959, syn. n. In addition, the new combination is established: Notomela fulvofasciata Jacoby, 1903 is transfered to Amphimela [A. fulvofasciata (Jacoby, 1903), comb. n.]. Micrographs of male and female genitalia, scanning electron micrographs of some diagnostic morphological characters, a key to identification, and distributional data for all species of Notomela, are provided.

Description and phylogeny of three new species of Synophis (Colubridae, Dipsadinae) from the tropical Andes in Ecuador and Peru
The discovery of three new species of Synophis snakes from the eastern slopes of the tropical Andes in Ecuador and Peru is reported. All previous records of S. bicolor from eastern Ecuador correspond to S. bogerti sp. n., which occurs between 1000–1750 m along a large part of the Amazonian slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes. In contrast, Synophis zamora sp. n. is restricted to southeastern Ecuador, including Cordillera del Cóndor, between 1543–1843 m. Synophis insulomontanus sp. n. is from the eastern slopes of the Andes in central and northern Peru, between 1122–1798 m, and represents the first record of Synophis from this country. All three new species share in common a large lateral spine at the base of the hemipenial body. A molecular phylogenetic tree based on three mitochondrial genes is presented, including samples of Diaphorolepis wagneri. Our tree strongly supports Synophis and Diaphorolepis as sister taxa, as well as monophyly of the three new species described here and S. calamitus. Inclusion of Synophis and Diaphorolepis within Dipsadinae as sister to a clade containing Imantodes, Dipsas, Ninia, Hypsiglena and Pseudoleptodeira is also supported.

First record of the plant bug genus Paramiridius Miyamoto & Yasunaga (Heteroptera, Miridae, Mirinae) from Indochina, with descriptions of two new species from Laos
The mirine plant bug genus Paramiridius, previously known only from a single Taiwanese species, is reported from Indochinese Laos for the first time and redefined. Two additional species, P. indochinensis and P. laomontanus, are described as new to science. The female genitalic structures of the genus are documented for the first time. Habitus illustrations, figures of male genitalia, and key are provided for all three known Paramiridius species.
["Paramiridius"]

Embryogenesis and tadpole description of Hyperolius castaneus Ahl, 1931 and H. jackie Dehling, 2012 (Anura, Hyperoliidae) from montane bog pools
Tadpoles of Hyperolius castaneus and H. jackie were found in the Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda and adjacent areas. Tadpoles of both species were identified by DNA-barcoding. At the shore of a bog pool three clutches of H. castaneus of apparently different age, all laid on moss pads (Polytrichum commune, Isotachis aubertii) or grass tussocks (Andropogon shirensis) 2–5 cm above the water level, were found. One clutch of H. castaneus was infested by larval dipterid flies. The most recently laid clutch contained about 20 eggs within a broad egg-jelly envelope. The eggs were attached to single blades of a tussock and distributed over a vertical distance of 8 cm. A pair of H. castaneus found in axillary amplexus was transported in a plastic container to the lab for observation. The pair deposited a total of 57 eggs (15 eggs attached to the upper wall of the transport container, 42 eggs floated in the water). Embryogenesis of the clutch was monitored in the plastic container at 20 ± 2 °C (air temperature) and documented by photos until Gosner Stage 25. The description of the tadpole of H. castaneus is based on a Gosner Stage 29 individual from a series of 57 tadpoles (Gosner stages 25–41). The description of the tadpole of H. jackie is based on a Gosner Stage 32 individual from a series of 43 tadpoles (Gosner stages 25–41). Egg laying behavior and embryogenesis are unknown for H. jackie. The labial tooth row formula for both species is 1/3(1) with a narrow median gap of the tooth row. Variation in external morphology was observed in size and labial tooth row formula within the species. With the tadpole descriptions of H. castaneus and H. jackie, 36 tadpoles of the 135 known Hyperolius species have been described, including five of the eleven Hyperolius species known from Rwanda.
["Cryptic species diversity"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

A review of the cleptoparasitic bee genus Townsendiella (Apidae, Nomadinae, Townsendiellini), with the description of a new species from Pinnacles National Park
The cleptoparasitic bee genus Townsendiella Crawford (Nomadinae, Townsendiellini) is a rare group restricted to the southwestern United States and adjacent Mexico, whose taxonomy and biology remain poorly known. This paper describes Townsendiella ensifera sp. n., the first known record of this genus from Pinnacles National Park. A key to the species of the genus is provided. Several potential areas of future research are also discussed.

Butterflies of the Bodoquena Plateau in Brazil (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea)
Butterflies and moths are found in all terrestrial environments and require efforts for a better understanding of its mega-diversity. These taxa have been the subject of several studies involving phylogeny, ecology and environmental impacts. Nevertheless, several areas in the tropics remain unexplored, resulting in gaps in the taxonomic composition and distribution of butterflies in endemic environments. Therefore, a survey of the butterfly fauna of the Bodoquena Plateau in Brazil was conducted. This area consists of tropical Atlantic Forests, with marginal influences of Savannah, Chaco and Pantanal. Sampling was carried out in 20 locations using Van Someren Rydon traps and insect nets between November 2009 and April 2015. Active collection of individuals was conducted from 9:00 to 17:00h, totaling 240 hours of sampling effort. In total, we registered 768 individuals belonging to 146 species of 98 genera, six families and 18 subfamilies. Nymphalidae was the richest family (84 species), followed by Hesperiidae (22 species), Riodinidae (14 species), Pieridae (12) Papilionidae (11 species) and Lycaenidae (five species). We sampled 239 nymphalids in traps, with 48 species, 30 genera, 15 tribes and five subfamilies. The most common species were Eunica macris (Godart, 1824), Dynamine artemisia (Fabricius, 1793) and Memphis moruus (Fabricius, 1775). Therefore, this study contributes to the knowledge of the Neotropical butterfly diversity and distribution, providing 37 new records and supporting the use of wildlife inventories as important tools for the knowledge of tropical forests biodiversity and conservation.
["Biodiversity inventory"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

New records of the rare calcareous sponge Paragrantia waguensis Hôzawa, 1940
Paragrantia waguensis Hôzawa is reported from coastal reefs of the island of Okinawa. This rare species was previously known only from Central Japan, Mie Prefecture. It has peculiar apopylar tetractine spicules, so far unique among Calcarea. We present in situ images of the species and a full description including SEM images of skeletal structure and spicule complement. The status of Paragrantia as a separate genus of the family Grantiidae distinct from Grantia Fleming is confirmed on the basis of a morphological and molecular comparison with the European type species of Grantia, G. compressa (Fabricius).
["Porifera"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Lepidasthenia loboi sp. n. from Puerto Madryn, Argentina (Polychaeta, Polynoidae)
Among polychaetes, polynoids have the highest number of symbiotic species found living with a wide variety of marine invertebrates, including other polychaetes. Lepidasthenia Malmgren, 1867 and Lepidametria Webster, 1879 were regarded as synonyms but belong to different subfamilies, although both have species associated with thelepodid or terebellid polychaetes. In this contribution Lepidasthenia loboi sp. n. is described from several specimens associated with the thelepodid Thelepus antarcticus Kinberg, 1867, collected on a rocky shore near Puerto Madryn, Argentina. Lepidasthenia loboi sp. n. can be confused with L. esbelta Amaral & Nonato, 1982 because both live with Thelepus, are of similar sizes with similar pigmentation patterns, and have giant neurochaetae. However, in L. loboi sp. n. all eyes are of the same size, cephalic and parapodial cirri are tapered and mucronate, the second pair of elytra is larger than the third, the ventral cirri arise at the base of parapodia such that they do not reach chaetal lobe tips, and neuraciculae are tapered. On the contrary, in L. esbelta the posterior eyes are larger than anterior ones, cephalic and parapodial appendages are swollen subdistally, the second and third pairs of elytra are of the same size, the ventral cirri arise medially such that their tips reach the neurochaetal lobe tips, and the neuraciculae have falcate tips. Some comments about other genera in the Lepidastheniinae, a simplified key to its genera, and a key to Lepidasthenia species with giant neurochaetae are also included.
["Thelepodidae"]

First cavernicolous trechine beetle discovered in Guilin karst, northeastern Guangxi (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
A new subgenus and new species of anophthalmic trechine beetles, Oodinotrechus (Pingleotrechus) yinaesubgen. n., sp. n., is described and illustrated from a limestone cave called Chaotianyan in southern part of Guilin karst, northeastern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The new taxon is very different from the Maolan-Mulun congeners belonging to the nominate subgenus Oodinotrechus (s. str.) Uéno, 1998, in several important character states including pronotal structure, elytral chaetotaxy and male genitalia. It is the first record of a cavernicolous trechine beetle in Guilin karst, and in the eastern part of Guangxi. In addition, a distribution map for the genus Oodinotrechus Uéno, 1998, is provided.
["Ground beetle"]

Resolution of taxonomic problems in Australian Harpalini, Abacetini, Pterostichini, and Oodini (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Taxonomic changes are made for several problematic Australian Carabidae in the tribes Harpalini, Abacetini, Pterostichini, and Oodini. Examination of types resulted in the synonymy of Veradia Castelnau, 1867 with Leconomerus Chaudoir, 1850; Nelidus Chaudoir, 1878, Feronista Moore, 1965, and Australomasoreus Baehr, 2007 with Cerabilia Castelnau, 1867; and newly combining Fouquetius variabilis Straneo, 1960 in the genus Pediomorphus Chaudoir, 1878; Australomasoreus monteithi Baehr, 2007 in the genus Cerabilia Castelnau, 1867; and Anatrichis lilliputana W.J. Macleay, 1888 in the genus Nanodiodes Bousquet, 1996. Cuneipectus Sloane, 1907 is placed in Pterostichini Bonelli, 1810, which is a senior synonym of Cuneipectini Sloane, 1907.
["Ground beetles"]

Notes on the ant genus Cataglyphis Foerster, 1850 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in the Arabian Peninsula with description of a new species and a key to species of the C. pallida-group
Cataglyphis fisheri sp. n. is described and illustrated from the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia based on the worker caste. It belongs to the C. pallida-group which is recorded for the first time from the Arabian Peninsula. Cataglyphis fisheri sp. n. is similar to C. pallida Mayr, 1877 from Kazakhstan. Differential diagnosis between these two species is given and a key to the species of the C. pallida-group is presented. Cataglyphis laylae Collingwood, 2011 is treated as a junior synonym of Cataglyphis saharae Santschi, 1929. Cataglyphis flavobrunnea Collingwood & Agosti, 1996 is redescribed and a lectotype for this species is designated.
["Synonymy"]

A new species of Amphictene (Annelida, Pectinariidae) from the northern South China Sea
Pectinariids are a family of polychaetes commonly found in shallow coastal waters around the world, but their diversity is poorly known along the coasts of Asia. Here we describe Amphictene alata sp. n. (Pectinariidae), based on 15 specimens collected from the coastal waters of Guangdong in the northern South China Sea. This new species can be distinguished from all other 13 described species and one described subspecies of Amphictene by having a pair of dorsolateral lobes on segment 3, a pair of large lateral lobes on segment 21, and more scaphal hooks (26 to 37 pairs).
["polychaete"]

Sea cucumbers of the genus Stichopus Brandt, 1835 (Holothuroidea, Stichopodidae) in Straits of Malacca with description of a new species
Five sea cucumber species including one new species of the genus Stichopus are reported from the shallow coral reefs of Straits of Malacca. The new species Stichopus fusiformiossa has unusual fusiform spicules in the tentacles, which are not found in the other species of the genus. Pseudo-tables and large perforated plates are newly recorded for Stichopus hermanni Semper, 1868 and Stichopus vastus Sluiter, 1887, respectively.
["Echinodermata"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Aquatic life and conservation"]

Two new species and one new record of Parakiefferiella Thienemann, 1936 from China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Two new species of the genus Parakiefferiella Thienemann, 1936 (P. fasciata Liu & Wang, sp. n. and P. liupanensis Liu & Wang, sp. n.) are described as adult males from China. Parakiefferiella tamatriangulata Sasa is recorded from China for the first time. A key to the known adult males of Parakiefferiella from China is presented. The generic diagnosis of male Parakiefferiella given by Cranston et al. (1989) is emended.
["Chironomidae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The Mecyclothorax beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Moriomorphini) of Haleakala-, Maui: Keystone of a hyperdiverse Hawaiian radiation
The Mecyclothorax carabid beetle fauna of Haleakalā volcano, Maui Island, Hawai‘i is taxonomically revised, with 116 species precinctive to Haleakalā recognized, 74 newly described. Species are classified into 14 species groups, with the newly described species arrayed as follows: 1, M. constrictus group with M. perseveratus sp. n.; 2, M. obscuricornis group with M. notobscuricornis sp. n., M. mordax sp. n., M. mordicus sp. n., M. manducus sp. n., M. ambulatus sp. n., M. montanus sp. n., M. waikamoi sp. n., M. poouli sp. n., and M. ahulili sp. n.; 3, M. robustus group with M. affinis sp. n., M. anchisteus sp. n., M. consanguineus sp. n., M. antaeus sp. n., M. cymindulus sp. n., and M. haydeni sp. n.; 4, M. interruptus group with M. bradycelloides sp. n., M. anthracinus sp. n., M. arthuri sp. n., M. medeirosi sp. n., M. inconscriptus sp. n., and M. foveolatus sp. n.; 5, M. sobrinus group with M. foveopunctatus sp. n.; 6, M. ovipennis group with M. subtilis Britton & Liebherr, sp. n., M. patulus sp. n., M. patagiatus sp. n., M. strigosus sp. n., M. takumiae sp. n., M. parapicalis sp. n., M. mauiae sp. n., M. subternus sp. n., M. flaviventris sp. n., M. cordaticollaris sp. n., and M. krushelnyckyi sp. n.; 7, M. argutor group with M. ommatoplax sp. n., M. semistriatus sp. n., M. refulgens sp. n., M. argutulus sp. n., M. planipennis sp. n., M. planatus sp. n., and M. argutuloides sp. n.; 8, M. microps group with M. major sp. n., M. xestos sp. n., M. orbiculus sp. n., and M. contractus sp. n.; 9, M. scaritoides group with M. scarites sp. n., M. timberlakei sp. n., M. crassuloides sp. n., M. crassulus sp. n., M. gracilicollis sp. n., and M. dispar sp. n.; 10, M. haleakalae group with M. reiteratus sp. n., M. splendidus sp. n., M. bacrionis sp. n., and M. simpulum sp. n.; 11, M. vitreus group with M. kipwilli sp. n., M. kipahulu sp. n., M. kaumakani sp. n., and M. kuiki sp. n.; 12, M. montivagus group with M. rex sp. n.; 13, M. ducalis group with M. aquilus sp. n., M. invisitatussp. n., M. longidux sp. n., and M. brevidux sp. n.; and 14, M. palustris group with M. hephaestoides sp. n., M. oculellus sp. n., M. bicoloris sp. n., M. bicoloratus sp. n., M. bilobatus sp. n., M. palustroides sp. n., M. filipoides sp. n., M. nanunctus sp. n., M. tauberorum sp. n., and M. pau sp. n. Mecyclothorax integer Sharp, stat. n. is recognized as a species distinct from M. interruptus Sharp. Because type series for species described by Blackburn, Karsch, and Sharp are most often divided among geographically remote collections, lectotypes are designated to stabilize the nomenclature. The radiation includes numerous cryptic sibling species best diagnosed using male genitalia, and photographs are used to represent the male genitalic variability observed among numerous dissected individuals. The large number of new species is based on substantial new collections made from all quarters of the mountain. The dense geographic sampling allows fine-scale discrimination of species boundaries, elucidating the geographic disjunctions that are associated with speciation within this hyperdiverse radiation. Disjunctions between closely related species precinctive to various areas of the mountain are not congruent across the different lineages of the radiation, indicating differential responses by the various lineages to past geological and geographical events. Of the 62 1’ latitude × 1’ longitude grid cells on Haleakalā that are occupied by Mecyclothorax beetles, 22 house 10 or more species, and 9 house 20 or more species. This substantial level of sympatry, associated with occupation of diverse microhabitats by these beetles, provides ample information useful for monitoring biodiversity of the natural areas of Haleakalā.
["Allopatric speciation"]

Revision of the green lacewing subgenus Ankylopteryx (Sencera) (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae)
The Australasian and Oriental green lacewing subgenus Ankylopteryx (Sencera) Navás (Chrysopinae: Ankylopterygini) is examined and its diversity and placement among other members of the tribe Ankylopterygini is discussed. After study of specimens spanning the full distribution and anatomical range of variation for the subgenus, all prior putative species, resulting in the sole valid species are newly synonymized, Ankylopteryx (Sencera) anomala (Brauer). Accordingly, the following new synonymies are established: Sencera scioneura Navás, syn. n., S. feae Navás, syn. n., and S. exquisita Nakahara, syn. n. [all under the name A. (S.) anomala]. A lectotype is newly designated for A. (S.) anomala so as to stabilize the application of the name. To support our hypotheses, the wing and general body coloration as well as the male genitalia are reviewed. We elaborate on the possibility of A. (S.) anomala being nothing more than an autapomorphic species of Ankylopteryx Brauer, as it was originally described. The species is not sufficiently distinct to warrant recognition as a separate subgenus within the group, and most certainly not as its own genus as has been advocated by past authors. Nonetheless, we do not for now go so far as to synonymize the subgenus until a more extensive phylogenetic analysis is undertaken with multiple representative species from across Ankylopteryx and other ankylopterygine genera. Lastly, we comment on the biology of A. (S.) anomala in terms of the attraction of males to methyl eugenol and on the widespread practice of splitting within Chrysopidae.
["Ankylopterygini"]

Introduced Pheidole of the world: taxonomy, biology and distribution
The objective of this study is to provide a detailed taxonomic resource for identifying and studying ants in the genus Pheidole that have established beyond their native ranges. There is an increasing need for systematists to study taxa of specific concern to 21st century environmental, food security and public health challenges. Systematics has an important role to play in both the theoretical and applied disciplines of invasion biology. Few invaders impact terrestrial ecosystems more than ants. Among the world’s 100 worst invasive species is the cosmopolitan and highly destructive Pheidole megacephala (Fabricius). Accurate identification of P. megacephala is imperative for the success of screening, management and eradication programs designed to protect native ecosystems from the impacts of this destructive species. However, accurate identification of Pheidole species is difficult because of their taxonomic diversity, dimorphic worker caste and lack of taxonomic resources. Illustrated keys are included, along with the taxonomic history, taxonomic diagnoses, biological notes and risk statements for the 14 most invasive members of the genus. Global distribution maps based on over 14,000 specimen and literature records are presented for each species. These results of this work will facilitate identification of pest species, determination of climatic and habitat requirements, discovery of pest origins, horizon scanning and assessment of invasion pathways. The following new synonym is proposed, with the senior synonym listed first and the junior synonyms in parentheses: Pheidole indica Mayr (= P. teneriffana Forel, and its synonyms P. taina Aguayo and P. voeltzkowii Forel). Pheidole navigans Forel, stat. rev., stat. n. is removed from synonymy and elevated to species rank. It is proposed that records of P. moerens Forel outside of the Mesoamerica and the Caribbean refer instead to P. navigans or other heterospecific taxa in the P. flavens species complex. We propose that the names P. anastasii Emery and P. floridana Emery have been widely misapplied to North American outdoor records of P. bilimeki Mayr. It is suggested that the synonymy of P. lauta Wheeler be transferred from P. floridana Emery to P. bilimeki Mayr.
["Applied systematics"]

Systematics and biology of Xylocopa subgenus Schonnherria (Hymenoptera, Apidae) in Argentina
Biological information on the species of the large carpenter bee Xylocopa subgenus Schonnherria occurring in Argentina is revised. Based on the appraisal of museum specimens, the study of type material, and field surveys conducted across 15 provinces between 2007 and 2011, the following seven species are recognized for the country: X. bambusae Schrottky, X. chrysopoda Schrottky, X. macrops Lepeletier de Saint Fargeau, X. simillima Smith X. splendidula Lepeletier de Saint Fargeau, X. pulchra Smith, and X. viridis Smith. Previous literature records of X. dimidiata Latreille, X. subcyanea Pérez, and X. varians Smith for the province of Misiones appear to have been misidentified specimens, although the presence of these species in Argentina cannot be entirely ruled out given the proximity of this province to Brazil and Paraguay where they occur; X. boops Maidl was described from a male specimen with unusually enlarged eyes and is newly synonymized under X. macrops. Males and females of all species are diagnosed, described, and figured, including details of the male genitalia. Taxonomic comments, data on the geographical distribution and nesting substrates, and identification keys to all Argentinean species of Schonnherria are provided. The nesting biologies of X. splendidula and X. viridis are documented.

Taxonomic revision of Afrotropical Laccophilus Leach, 1815 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
The African species of the genus Laccophilus Leach, 1815, are revised, on the basis of study of adult specimens. In all, 105 species are now recognized. A phenetic character-analysis was undertaken, which resulted in a split of the genus into 17 species groups. Diagnoses and a description of each species are given together with keys for identification of species groups and species. We also provide habitus photos, illustration of male genitalia and distribution maps for all species. New species are described as follows: L. grossus sp. n. (Angola, Namibia), L. rocchii sp. n. (Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique), L. ferrugo sp. n. (Mozambique), L. furthi sp. n. (Madagascar), L. isamberti sp. n. (Madagascar), L. inobservatus sp. n. (Gambia, Senegal, Mali, Niger, Sudan, Chad, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Zaire and Asia: Yemen), L. cryptos sp. n. (Zaire, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa), L. enigmaticus sp. n. (Nigeria, Sudan), L. bellus sp. n. (Benin, Nigeria), L. guentheri sp. n. (Guinea, Ghana), L. guineensis sp. n. (Guinea), L. decorosus sp. n. (Uganda), L. empheres sp. n. (Kenya), L. inconstans sp. n. (Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon), L. brancuccii sp. n. (Central African Republic), L. incomptus sp. n. (Cameroon), L. australis sp. n. (Tanzania, South Africa), L. minimus sp. n. (Namibia), L. eboris sp. n. (Ivory Coast), L. insularum sp. n. (Madagascar), L. occidentalis sp. n. (Gambia, Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Zaire) and L. transversovittatus sp. n. (Madagascar). L. restrictus Sharp, 1882, is restored as good species; not junior synonym of L. pictipennis Sharp, 1882. New synonyms are established as follows: L. continentalis Gschwendtner, 1935 = L. perplexus Omer-Cooper, 1970, syn. n., L. taeniolatus Régimbart, 1889 = L. congener Omer-Cooper, 1957, syn. n., L. adspersus Boheman, 1848 = L. vitshumbii Guignot, 1959, syn. n. = L. adspersus nigeriensis Omer-Cooper, 1970, syn. n. = L. adspersus sudanensis Omer-Cooper, 1970, syn. n., L. modestus Régimbart, 1895 = L. espanyoli Hernando, 1990, syn. n., L. flaveolus Régimbart, 1906 = L. pampinatus Guignot, 1941, syn. n., L. trilineola Régimbart, 1889 = L. simulator Omer-Cooper, 1958, syn. n., L. mediocris Guignot, 1952 = L. meii Rocchi, 2000, syn. n., L. epinephes Guignot, 1955 = L. castaneus Guignot, 1956, syn. n., L. saegeri Guignot, 1958 = L. comoensis Pederzani & Reintjes, 2002, syn. n., L. restrictus Sharp, 1882 = L. evanescens Régimbart, 1895, syn. n., L. incrassatus Gschwendtner, 1933 = L. virgatus Guignot, 1953, syn. n., L. cyclopis Sharp, 1882 = L. shephardi Omer-Cooper, 1965, syn. n., L. burgeoni Gschwendtner, 1930 = L. wittei Guignot, 1952, syn. n., L. secundus Régimbart, 1895 = L. torquatus Guignot, 1956, syn. n., L. desintegratus Régimbart, 1895 = L. sanguinosus Régimbart, 1895, syn. n. and L. flavopictus Régimbart, 1889 = L. bergeri Guignot, 1953, syn. n. = L. segmentatus Omer-Cooper, 1957, syn. n. Lectotypes are designated for the following taxa: L. productus Régimbart, 1906, L. ruficollis Zimmermann, 1919, L. sordidus Sharp, 1882, L. alluaudi Régimbart, 1899, L. pictipennis Sharp, 1882, L. wehnckei Sharp, 1882, L. continentalis Gschwendtner, 1935, L. simplicistriatus Gschwendtner, 1932, L. complicatus Sharp, 1882, L. rivulosus Klug, 1833, L. ampliatus Régimbart, 1895, L. pilitarsis Régimbart, 1906, L. adspersus Boheman, 1848, L. livens Régimbart, 1895, L. modestus Régimbart, 1895, L. nodieri Régimbart, 1895, L. flaveolus Régimbart, 1906, L. pallescens Régimbart, 1903, L. restrictus Sharp, 1882, L. vermiculosus Gerstaecker, 1867, L. mocquerysi Régimbart, 1895, L. bizonatus Régimbart, 1895, L. tschoffeni Régimbart, 1895, L. persimilis Régimbart, 1895, L. poecilus Klug, 1834, L. lateralis Sharp, 1882, L. lateralis var. polygrammus Régimbart, 1903, L. cyclopis Sharp, 1882, L. shephardi Omer-Cooper, 1965, L. conjunctus Guignot, 1950, L. grammicus Sharp, 1882, L. flavoscriptus Régimbart, 1895, L. flavosignatus Régimbart, 1895, L. brevicollis Sharp, 1882, L. secundus Régimbart, L. desintegratus Régimbart, 1895, L. gutticollis Régimbart, 1895, L. luctuosus Sharp, 1882 and L. inornatus Zimmermann, 1926. Laccophilus remex Guignot, 1952, comprises a species complex with uncertain taxonomic delimitation; the complex includes L. concisus Guignot, 1953, L. turneri Omer-Cooper, 1957 and L. praeteritus Omer-Cooper, 1957, as tentative synonyms of L. remex Guignot, 1952.

A new genus of Coelotinae (Araneae, Agelenidae) from southern China
One new genus of the spider subfamily Coelotinae, Flexicoelotes gen. n., with five new species is described from southern China: F. huyunensis sp. n. (female), F. jiaohanyanensis sp. n. (male and female), F. jinlongyanensis sp. n. (male and female), F. pingzhaiensis sp. n. (female), F. xingwangensis sp. n. (male and female).

Systematics of Nothopsini (Serpentes, Dipsadidae), with a new species of Synophis from the Pacific Andean slopes of southwestern Ecuador
Within Dipsadinae, some recent authors have recognized a tribe Nothopsini containing the genera Diaphorolepis, Emmochliophis, Nothopsis, Synophis, and Xenopholis, on the basis of a number of putative morphological synapomorphies. However, molecular results suggest that Nothopsis, Synophis, and Xenopholis do not form a monophyletic group, while the remaining taxa are unsampled in recent molecular phylogenies. Here, DNA-sequence data for some Diaphorolepis and Synophis species are provided for the first time, as well as additional new sequences for Nothopsis and some Synophis species. Including these and other existing data for nothopsine species, previous studies showing that Nothopsini is not a natural group are corroborated. Nothopsini Cope, 1871 is restricted to Nothopsis. Diaphorolepidini Jenner, 1981 is resurrected and re-delimited to include only Diaphorolepis, Emmochliophis, and Synophis. Finally, Xenopholis remains Dipsadinaeincertae sedis. Known material of Diaphorolepidini is reviewed to generate revised and expanded descriptions and diagnoses at the tribe, genus, and species level. Numerous cryptic species are likely present in S. bicolor and S. lasallei. Finally, a new population from the low-elevation cloud forests of SW Ecuador is reported upon, which is genetically and morphologically distinct from all other species, that is here named Synophis zaheri sp. n.
["Serpentes"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Two new species of Euptychia Hübner, 1818 from the upper Amazon basin (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)
Two new species of Euptychia Hübner, 1818 are described from the upper Amazon basin: E. attenboroughi Neild, Nakahara, Fratello & Le Crom, sp. n. (type locality: Amazonas, Venezuela), and E. sophiae Zacca, Nakahara, Dolibaina & Dias, sp. n. (type locality: Acre, Brazil). Their unusual facies prompted molecular and phylogenetic analyses of one of the species resulting in support for their classification in monophyletic Euptychia. Diagnostic characters for the two species are presented based on wing morphology, wing pattern, presence of androconial patches on the hindwing, and genitalia. Our results indicate that the projection of the tegumen above the uncus, previously considered a synapomorphy for Euptychia, is not shared by all species in the genus. The adults and their genitalia are documented, and distribution data and a map are provided.
["Euptychiina"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Glenochrysa Esben-Petersen from Australia (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae)
A new species of the charismatic green lacewing genus Glenochrysa Esben-Petersen is described from northern Western Australia. Glenochrysa minima sp. n. represents one of the smallest species of the genus. A key to species of Australian Glenochrysa is presented.
["Green lacewing"]

A remarkable new genus and a new species of chewing louse (Phthiraptera, Ischnocera, Philopteridae) from Brazil
A new genus of chewing louse asBobdalgleishia, and its type species Bobdalgleishia stephanophallus sp. n. (Phthiraptera) belonging to the Brueelia-complex (Ischnocera: Philopteridae) are described. Adults of the new species are fully described, illustrated and compared morphologically with the type species of Motmotnirmus Mey & Barker, 2014, which is its closest relative. The type host of B. stephanophallus is a subspecies of the great jacamar Jacamerops aureus ridgwayi Todd, 1943, an endemic Amazonian bird distributed in northern Brazil, and the type locality is the State of Pará. Bobdalgleishia is a remarkable genus with unique morphological and chaetotaxic characters which readily separate it from other members of the Brueelia-complex, in particular by having the first two marginal temporal and ocular setae very long.
["Brueelia-complex"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Morphometric divergence in populations of Anastrepha obliqua (Diptera, Tephritidae) from Colombia and some Neotropical locations
The West Indian fruit fly, Anastrepha obliqua, is one of seven species of quarantine importance of its genus and is one of the most economically important fruit fly pests in Colombia. The taxonomic status of this species is a key issue for further implementation of any pest management program. Several molecular studies have shown enough variability within A. obliqua to suggest its taxonomic status could be revised; however, there are no morphological studies supporting this hypothesis. The aim of this work was to describe the morphological variability of Colombian populations of A. obliqua, comparing this variability with that of other samples from the Neotropics. Measurements were performed on individuals from 11 populations collected from different geographic Colombian localities and were compared with populations from Mexico (2), Dominica Island (1), Peru (1) and Brazil (2). Linear morphometric analyses were performed using 23 female morphological traits, including seven variables of the aculeus, three of the thorax, and six of the wing; seven ratios among them were also considered. Discriminant function analyses showed significant morphological differentiation among the Colombian populations, separating them into two groups. Furthermore, in the comparisons between Colombian samples with those from other countries, three clusters were observed. The possibility of finding more than one species within the nominal A. obliqua population is discussed.
["West Indian fruit fly"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Morphometric study of third-instar larvae from five morphotypes of the Anastrepha fraterculus cryptic species complex (Diptera, Tephritidae)
The occurrence of cryptic species among economically important fruit flies strongly affects the development of management tactics for these pests. Tools for studying cryptic species not only facilitate evolutionary and systematic studies, but they also provide support for fruit fly management and quarantine activities. Previous studies have shown that the South American fruit fly, Anastrepha fraterculus, is a complex of cryptic species, but few studies have been performed on the morphology of its immature stages. An analysis of mandible shape and linear morphometric variability was applied to third-instar larvae of five morphotypes of the A. fraterculus complex: Mexican, Andean, Ecuadorian, Peruvian and Brazilian-1. Outline geometric morphometry was used to study the mouth hook shape and linear morphometry analysis was performed using 24 linear measurements of the body, cephalopharyngeal skeleton, mouth hook and hypopharyngeal sclerite. Different morphotypes were grouped accurately using canonical discriminant analyses of both the geometric and linear morphometry. The shape of the mandible differed among the morphotypes, and the anterior spiracle length, number of tubules of the anterior spiracle, length and height of the mouth hook and length of the cephalopharyngeal skeleton were the most significant variables in the linear morphometric analysis. Third-instar larvae provide useful characters for studies of cryptic species in the A. fraterculus complex.
["South American fruit fly"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Gene flow and genetic structure of Bactrocera carambolae (Diptera, Tephritidae) among geographical differences and sister species, B. dorsalis, inferred from microsatellite DNA data
The Carambola fruit fly, Bactrocera carambolae, is an invasive pest in Southeast Asia. It has been introduced into areas in South America such as Suriname and Brazil. Bactrocera carambolae belongs to the B. dorsalis species complex, and seems to be separated from B. dorsalis based on morphological and multilocus phylogenetic studies. Even though the Carambola fruit fly is an important quarantine species and has an impact on international trade, knowledge of the molecular ecology of B. carambolae, concerning species status and pest management aspects, is lacking. Seven populations sampled from the known geographical areas of B. carambolae including Southeast Asia (i.e., Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand) and South America (i.e., Suriname), were genotyped using eight microsatellite DNA markers. Genetic variation, genetic structure, and genetic network among populations illustrated that the Suriname samples were genetically differentiated from Southeast Asian populations. The genetic network revealed that samples from West Sumatra (Pekanbaru, PK) and Java (Jakarta, JK) were presumably the source populations of B. carambolae in Suriname, which was congruent with human migration records between the two continents. Additionally, three populations of B. dorsalis were included to better understand the species boundary. The genetic structure between the two species was significantly separated and approximately 11% of total individuals were detected as admixed (0.100 ≤ Q ≤ 0.900). The genetic network showed connections between B. carambolae and B. dorsalis groups throughout Depok (DP), JK, and Nakhon Sri Thammarat (NT) populations. These data supported the hypothesis that the reproductive isolation between the two species may be leaky. Although the morphology and monophyly of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences in previous studies showed discrete entities, the hypothesis of semipermeable boundaries may not be rejected. Alleles at microsatellite loci could be introgressed rather than other nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. Bactrocera carambolae may be an incipient rather than a distinct species of B. dorsalis. Regarding the pest management aspect, the genetic sexing Salaya5 strain (SY5) was included for comparison with wild populations. The SY5 strain was genetically assigned to the B. carambolae cluster. Likewise, the genetic network showed that the strain shared greatest genetic similarity to JK, suggesting that SY5 did not divert away from its original genetic makeup. Under laboratory conditions, at least 12 generations apart, selection did not strongly affect genetic compatibility between the strain and wild populations. This knowledge further confirms the potential utilization of the Salaya5 strain in regional programs of area-wide integrated pest management using SIT.
["Carambola fruit fly"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) variation in the Anastrepha fraterculus cryptic species complex (Diptera, Tephritidae) of the Andean region
The nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) was sequenced for Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) originating from 85 collections from the northern and central Andean countries of South America including Argentina (Tucumán), Bolivia, Perú, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. The ITS1 regions of additional specimens (17 collections) from Central America (México, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Panamá), Brazil, Caribbean Colombia, and coastal Venezuela were sequenced and together with published sequences (Paraguay) provided context for interpretation. A total of six ITS1 sequence variants were recognized in the Andean region comprising four groups. Type I predominates in the southernmost range of A. fraterculus. Type II predominates in its northernmost range. In the central and northern Andes, the geographic distributions overlap and interdigitate with a strong elevational effect. A discussion of relationships between observed ITS1 types and morphometric types is included.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Relevant genetic differentiation among Brazilian populations of Anastrepha fraterculus (Diptera, Tephritidae)
We used a population genetic approach to detect the presence of genetic diversity among six populations of A. fraterculus across Brazil. To this aim, we used Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers, which may capture the presence of differentiative processes across the genome in distinct populations. Spatial analyses of molecular variance were used to identify groups of populations that are both genetically and geographically homogeneous while also being maximally differentiated from each other. The spatial analysis of genetic diversity indicates that the levels of diversity among the six populations vary significantly on an eco-geographical basis. Particularly, altitude seems to represent a differentiating adaptation, as the main genetic differentiation is detected between the two populations present at higher altitudes and the other four populations at sea level. The data, together with the outcomes from different cluster analyses, identify a genetic diversity pattern that overlaps with the distribution of the known morphotypes in the Brazilian area.
["Anastrepha"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Inter-regional mating compatibility among Bactrocera dorsalis populations in Thailand (Diptera,Tephritidae)
Mating compatibility among recently colonized (wildish) populations of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) from different geographic origins in Thailand was assessed through inter-regional mating tests. Outdoor octagonal nylon screen field cages containing single potted mango trees (Mangifera indica L.) were used. Sexual compatibility was determined using the index of sexual isolation (ISI), the male relative performance index (MRPI), and the female relative performance index (FRPI). The ISI values indicated that the northern population of B. dorsalis from Chiang Mai province was sexually compatible with the southern population of B. dorsalis (previously B. papayae) from Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The MRPI values showed that the northern males had a slightly higher tendency to mate than southern males, while the FRPI data reflected that females of both origins participated equally in matings. In all combinations there were no differences between homotypic and heterotypic couples in mating latency. Southern males tended to mate first with southern females, followed by northern males mating with northern females, while the latest matings involved heterotypic couples, in particular northern males mating with southern females. Overall, more couples were collected from higher parts of the field cage and the upper tree canopy, while there were no differences between the origins of flies in terms of elevation of couples within the cage. Laboratory assessments of fecundity showed no differences in the average number of eggs resulting from inter-regional crosses. Development of immature stages was also equal in the two hybrid crosses, with no differences found in the number of pupae produced, percentage pupal recovery, and percent adult emergence. The practical implication of this study is that colony of B. dorsalis derived from any northern or southern region of Thailand can potentially be used in sterile insect technique programs against this pest.
["Populations"]

Taxonomy and phenotypic relationships of the Anastrepha fraterculus complex in the Mesoamerican and Pacific Neotropical dominions (Diptera, Tephritidae)
Previous morphometric studies based on linear measurements of female structures of the aculeus, mesonotum, and wing revealed the existence of seven morphotypes within the Anastrepha fraterculus cryptic species complex along the Neotropical Region. The current research followed linear and geometric morphometric approaches in 40 population samples of the nominal species A. fraterculus (Wiedemann) spread throughout the Meso-American and Pacific Neotropical dominions (including Mexico, Central America, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru). The goals were to explore the phenotypic relationships of the morphotypes in these biogeographical areas; evaluate the reliability of procedures used for delimitation of morphotypes; and describe their current distribution. Findings determined that morphotypes previously recognized via the linear morphometrics were also supported by geometric morphometrics of the wing shape. In addition, we found an eighth morphotype inhabiting the highlands of Ecuador and Peru. Morphotypes are related into three natural phenotypic groups nominated as Mesoamerican-Caribbean lineage, Andean lineage, and Brazilian lineage. The hypothesis that lineages are not directly related to each other is discussed, supported by their large morphological divergence and endemicity in these three well-defined biogeographic areas. In addition, this hypothesis of the non-monophyly of the A. fraterculus complex is also supported by evidence from other authors based on molecular studies and the strong reproductive isolation between morphs from different lineages.
["Cryptic species complex"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant and animal studies"]

Niche partitioning among two Ceratitis rosa morphotypes and other Ceratitis pest species (Diptera, Tephritidae) along an altitudinal transect in Central Tanzania
Two standard parapheromones, trimedlure (routinely used for monitoring Ceratitis rosa and C. capitata) and terpinyl acetate (routinely used for monitoring C. cosyra) were compared with enriched ginger root oil (EGO) lure for detecting and monitoring the presence and relative population abundance of these particular pest species. Standard yellow fruit fly traps were used for the comparison, which was conducted at 10 sites along an altitudinal transect ranging from 540 to 1650 masl on the Uluguru mountains, in Morogoro Region (Central Tanzania). A gradual change of relative occurrence of the two C. rosa morphotypes was clear from the EGO lure trapping. The morphotype R1 was predominant at lower altitudes while morphotype R2 was predominant at higher altitudes. Further experiments are needed to confirm the consistency of the observed pattern across regions, seasons and years as well as possible differences in the developmental physiology of both morphotypes. The mango fruit fly, Ceratitis cosyra, showed a distinct predominance at altitudes below 800 masl as shown in both the EGO lure and the terpinyl acetate trapping. The catches of all three target species were higher in traps with the EGO lure compared to the conventional lures trimedlure and terpinyl acetate. It is argued that for these species EGO lure can act as a suitable and more effective alternative for trimedlure and terpinyl acetate parapheromones. In addition, EGO lure has the added advantage that it combines the taxon spectrum for the two latter substances, thus requiring the use of only a single attractant.
["EGO lure"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Population structure and cryptic genetic variation in the mango fruit fly, Ceratitis cosyra (Diptera, Tephritidae)
The fruit fly Ceratitis cosyra is an important agricultural pest negatively affecting the mango crop production throughout Africa and also feeding on a variety of other wild and cultivated hosts. The occurrence of deeply divergent haplotypes, as well as extensive morphological variability, previously suggested possible cryptic speciation within C. cosyra. Here we provide the first large-scale characterisation of the population structure of C. cosyra with the main objective of verifying cryptic genetic variation. A total of 348 specimens from 13 populations were genotyped at 16 polymorphic microsatellite loci. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) deviations were observed in 40.4% of locus-population combinations and suggested the occurrence of genetic substructuring within populations. Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC) showed genetic divergence between the vast majority of vouchers from Burundi and Tanzania (plus a few outliers from other African countries) and all other specimens sampled. Individual Bayesian assignments confirmed the existence of two main genotypic groups also occurring in sympatry. These data provided further support to the hypothesis that C. cosyra might include cryptic species. However, additional integrative taxonomy, possibly combining morphological, ecological and physiological approaches, is required to provide the necessary experimental support to this model.
["Ceratitis"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Cuticular hydrocarbons corroborate the distinction between lowland and highland Natal fruit fly (Tephritidae, Ceratitis rosa) populations
The cuticular hydrocarbons (CHs) and morphology of two Ceratitis rosa Karsch (Diptera: Tephritidae) populations, putatively belonging to two cryptic taxa, were analysed. The chemical profiles were characterised by two-dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection. CHs of C. rosa that originated from the lowlands and highlands of Kenya comprised of n-alkanes, monomethylalkanes, dimethylalkanes and unsaturated hydrocarbons in the range of the carbon backbone from C14 to C37. Hydrocarbons containing C29, C31, C33 and C35 carbon atoms predominated in these two populations. 2-Methyltriacontane was the predominant compound in both populations. Quantitative differences in the distribution of hydrocarbons of different chain lengths, mainly the C22, C32, C33 and C34 compounds of these two populations, were observed despite indistinct qualitative differences in these hydrocarbons. Morphological analyses of male legs confirmed that the flies belong to different morphotypes of C. rosa previously labelled as R1 and R2 for lowland and highland populations, respectively. A statistical analysis of the CH compositions of the putative R1 and R2 species showed distinct interspecific identities, with several CHs specific for each of the lowland and highland populations. This study supports a hypothesis that the taxon C. rosa consists of at least two biological species.
["Ceratitis"]
["Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies"]

Comparative analysis of development and survival of two Natal fruit fly Ceratitis rosa Karsch (Diptera, Tephritidae) populations from Kenya and South Africa
Comparative analysis of development and survivorship of two geographically divergent populations of the Natal fruit fly Ceratitis rosa Karsch designated as C. rosa R1 and C. rosa R2 from Kenya and South Africa were studied at seven constant temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 33, 35 °C). Temperature range for development and survival of both populations was 15–35 °C. The developmental duration was found to significantly decrease with increasing temperature for C. rosa R1 and C. rosa R2 from both countries. Survivorship of all the immature stages of C. rosa R1 and C. rosa R2 from Kenya was highest over the range of 20–30 °C (87–95%) and lowest at 15 and 35 °C (61–76%). Survivorship of larvae of C. rosa R1 and C. rosa R2 from South Africa was lowest at 35 °C (22%) and 33 °C (0.33%), respectively. Results from temperature summation models showed that C. rosa R2 (egg, larva and pupa) from both countries were better adapted to low temperatures than R1, based on lower developmental threshold. Minimum larval temperature threshold for Kenyan populations were 11.27 °C and 6.34 °C (R1 and R2, respectively) compared to 8.99 °C and 7.74 °C (R1 and R2, respectively) for the South African populations. Total degree-day (DD) accumulation for the Kenyan populations were estimated at 302.75 (C. rosa R1) and 413.53 (C. rosa R2) compared to 287.35 (C. rosa R1) and 344.3 (C. rosa R2) for the South African populations. These results demonstrate that C. rosa R1 and C. rosa R2 from both countries were physiologically distinct in their response to different temperature regimes and support the existence of two genetically distinct populations of C. rosa. It also suggests the need for taxonomic revision of C. rosa, however, additional information on morphological characterization of C. rosa R1 and C. rosa R2 is needed.
["Ceratitis"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

Description of third instar larvae of Ceratitis fasciventris, C. anonae, C. rosa (FAR complex) and C. capitata (Diptera, Tephritidae)
Third instar larvae of members of the Ceratitis FAR complex, including Ceratitis fasciventris (Bezzi), Ceratitis anonae Graham, and Ceratitis rosa Karsch are described and compared with those of Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann). Diagnostic characters, such as presence vs. absence of a secondary tooth on the mandibles, previously used to separate C. capitata from C. rosa, are shown to vary in each species. Significant variation in diagnostic morphological characters among populations of C. rosa from east and south Africa is documented; however, the differences are not simply congruent with the R1 and R2 designations based on other studies. Quantitative measures of numerous morphological characters are consistently smaller in the larvae of C. fasciventris and distinguish them from other species of the FAR complex. Larvae of C. capitata can be distinguished from those of the FAR complex by characters such as absence of accessory plates of the oral ridges, the shape of the anterior spiracle, and the pattern of dorsal spinules. Previous studies indicated that absence of accessory lobes separate the genus Ceratitis from Bactrocera, but this is shown to be incorrect, as accessory lobes are in fact present in several species of Ceratitis.
["Mediterranean fruit fly"]

Characterisation of the chemical profiles of Brazilian and Andean morphotypes belonging to the Anastrepha fraterculus complex (Diptera, Tephritidae)
Fruit fly sexual behaviour is directly influenced by chemical and non-chemical cues that play important roles in reproductive isolation. The chemical profiles of pheromones and cuticular hydrocarbons (CHs) of eight fruit fly populations of the Andean, Brazilian-1 and Brazilian-3 morphotypes of the Anastrepha fraterculus cryptic species complex originating from Colombia (four populations) and Brazil (four populations) were analysed using two-dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection. The resulting chemical diversity data were studied using principal component analyses. Andean morphotypes could be discriminated from the Brazilian-1 and Brazilian-3 morphotypes by means of male-borne pheromones and/or male and female CH profiles. The Brazilian-1 and Brazilian-3 morphotypes were found to be monophyletic. The use of chemical profiles as species- and sex-specific signatures for cryptic species separations is discussed.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies"]

Leucothoe kawesqari, a new amphipod from Bernardo O’Higgins National Park (Chile), with remarks on the genus in the Magellan Region (Crustacea, Peracarida)
Although the genus Leucothoe has been reported repeatedly in the Magellan Region, the citations in the Channels and Fjords Ecoregion were either unidentified or attributed to the previously considered cosmopolitan Leucothoe spinicarpa. In this work, Leucothoe kawesqari sp. n. is described, which can be distinguished from other species of the genus in the Southern Ocean by having eyes present, epimeral plates with no setae, anterior coxae not acutely produced or excavate, coxa 5 slightly bilobed, accessory flagellum present, mandibular palp article 3 shorter than ½ article 2, pereopods 5–7 basis expanded, ovoid, posterior margin weakly crenulate and telson apex irregularly truncated. The new species was found in hard substrates, both unvegetated and with macroalgae, mainly in kelp forest of Macrocystis pyrifera.
["Pacific Ocean"]

Description of Pella tianmuensis sp. n. from eastern China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Pella tianmuensis sp. n., a myrmecophile associated with Lasius (Dendrolasius) spathepus Wheeler, 1910 in West Tianmushan Natural Reserve, Zhejiang, is described, illustrated and distinguished from its congeners.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Conidarnes, a new oriental genus of Sycophaginae (Hymenoptera, Agaonidae) associated with Ficus section Conosycea (Moraceae)
The sycophagines are strictly associated with two subgenera of Ficus L. (Moraceae), namely Sycomorus and Urostigma. They mostly oviposit through the fig wall and lay their eggs within the fig flowers, being either gall-makers or parasitoids of other fig wasps. In this contribution, a new genus of Sycophaginae, Conidarnes Farache & Rasplus, gen. n., is described with seven new species: Conidarnes achterbergi Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; Conidarnes bergi Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; Conidarnes laevis Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; Conidarnes santineloi Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; Conidarnes subtectae Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; Conidarnes sulcata Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; and Conidarnes sumatranae Farache & Rasplus, sp. n. Illustrations, morphological diagnoses, dichotomous keys and multi-entry online keys to species are provided. Conidarnes species strictly occur in the oriental region, and their distribution does not overlap with the distribution of the two other genera belonging to the same clade. Due to their relative rarity, we encourage extensive sampling of Conosycea figs to improve our knowledge of the genus.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new polystomatid (Monogenea, Polystomatidae) from the mouth of the North American freshwater turtle Pseudemys nelsoni
Based on material collected from Pseudemys nelsoni (Reptilia: Chelonia: Emydidae) during a parasite survey of the herpetofauna around Gainesville, Florida, USA, Polystomoides nelsoni sp. n. is described as a new polystome species. This parasite was found in the oral and pharyngeal region of the host. In a sample of nine Pseudemys nelsoni, three specimens were found to release polystome eggs. One turtle was euthanized and dissected and found to be infected in the oral region with 19 specimens belonging to an as-yet-unknown Polystomoides. This is only the fifth Polystomoides recorded from the Nearctic realm. This species is distinguished from known species by a combination of characteristics including marginal hooklet morphology, body length and haptor dimensions.
["Monogenea"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Rediscovery of Eremobittacus spinulatus Byers (Mecoptera, Bittacidae) in Mexico, with description of the female and comments on sexual dimorphism and potential mimicry
The female of Eremobittacus spinulatus Byers, 1997 is described for the first time. A key to the two species known of this genus endemic to Mexico is provided, and species distribution is illustrated. A case is made for adults of Eremobittacus to be sexually dimorphic, which appears to be an exceptional occurrence in Bittacidae. It is claimed that E. spinulatus habitus has a wasp-like appearance, which may potentially depict a case of mimicry.
["Hangingfly"]

Contributions to the knowledge of oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) of Indonesia. 3. The genus Galumna (Galumnidae) with description of a new subgenus and seven new species
Seven new species of oribatid mites of the genus Galumna are described from litter and soil materials of Sumatra, Indonesia. A new subgenus, Galumna (Atypicogalumna)subgen. n., is proposed; it differs from all galumnid genera and subgenera by the simultaneous presence of porose areas and sacculi on the notogaster (vs. either porose areas or sacculi present). Galumna (Galumna) calva Starý, 1997 is recorded for the first time in the Oriental region, and G. (G.) sabahna Mahunka, 1995 is recorded for the first time in the Indonesian fauna.
["Oribatid mites"]

Interpretation of mitochondrial diversity in terms of taxonomy: a case study of Hyponephele lycaon species complex in Israel (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)
It is difficult to interpret mitochondrial diversity in terms of taxonomy even in cases in which a concordance exists between mitochondrial, ecological and morphological markers. Here we demonstrate this difficulty through a study of Israeli Hyponephele butterflies. We show that samples commonly identified as Hyponephele lycaon are represented on Mount Hermon in Israel by two sympatric groups of individuals distinct both in mitochondrial DNA-barcodes (uncorrected p-distance = 3.5%) and hindwing underside pattern. These two groups were collected in different biotopes. They also tended to be different in length of brachia in male genitalia, although the latter character is variable. We reject the hypothesis that the discovered COI haplogroups are selectively neutral intraspecific characters. We hypothesize that they represent: either (1) two different biological species, or (2) a consequence of a strong positive selection acting at intraspecific level and resulting in two intraspecific clusters adapted to low and to high elevations. If we accept the first hypothesis, then provisionally these two haplogroups can be attributed to transpalearctic H. lycaon sensu stricto and to H. lycaonoides, previously known from Iran and East Turkey.
["adaptation to high/low elevation"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Achiasmate male meiosis in two Cymatia species (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Corixidae)
The karyotype and male meiosis, with a particular focus on the presence or absence of chiasmata between the homologs, were studied in the water boatman species Cymatia rogenhoferi (Fieber) and C. coleoptrata (Fabricius) (Corixidae, Cymatiainae). It is shown that the species have 2n = 33 (28A+2m+X1X2Y) and 2n = 24 (20A+2m+XY) respectively, post-reduction of sex chromosomes, and achiasmate meiosis of an alignment type in males. Cytogenetic and some morphological diagnostic characters separating Cymatia Flor from the rest of Corixidae are discussed.
["Karyotype"]
["Child and Adolescent Psychosocial and Emotional Development", "Early Childhood Education and Development"]

Chromosome numbers in antlions (Myrmeleontidae) and owlflies (Ascalaphidae) (Insecta, Neuroptera)
A short review of main cytogenetic features of insects belonging to the sister neuropteran families Myrmeleontidae (antlions) and Ascalaphidae (owlflies) is presented, with a particular focus on their chromosome numbers and sex chromosome systems. Diploid male chromosome numbers are listed for 37 species, 21 genera from 9 subfamilies of the antlions as well as for seven species and five genera of the owlfly subfamily Ascalaphinae. The list includes data on five species whose karyotypes were studied in the present work. It is shown here that antlions and owlflies share a simple sex chromosome system XY/XX; a similar range of chromosome numbers, 2n = 14-26 and 2n = 18-22 respectively; and a peculiar distant pairing of sex chromosomes in male meiosis. Usually the karyotype is particularly stable within a genus but there are some exceptions in both families (in the genera Palpares and Libelloides respectively). The Myrmeleontidae and Ascalaphidae differ in their modal chromosome numbers. Most antlions exhibit 2n = 14 and 16, and Palparinae are the only subfamily characterized by higher numbers, 2n = 22, 24, and 26. The higher numbers, 2n = 20 and 22, are also found in owlflies. Since the Palparinae represent a basal phylogenetic lineage of the Myrmeleontidae, it is hypothesized that higher chromosome numbers are ancestral for antlions and were inherited from the common ancestor of Myrmeleontidae + Ascalaphidae. They were preserved in the Palparinae (Myrmeleontidae), but changed via chromosomal fusions toward lower numbers in other subfamilies.
["Male chromosome numbers"]

Taxonomic interpretation of chromosomal and mitochondrial DNA variability in the species complex close to Polyommatus (Agrodiaetus) dama (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)
In this paper, by using combination of molecular and chromosomal markers, populations of Polyommatus (Agrodiaetus) karindus (Riley, 1921) from north-west and central Iran are analyzed. It has been found that taxon usually identified as P. (A.) karindus is represented in Iran by two geographically separated groups of individuals, strongly differentiated by their karyotypes and mitochondrial haplotypes. It is demonstrated that populations from NW Iran have the haploid chromosome number n = 68, while the haploid chromosome number of P. (A.) karindus from central Iran is found to be n = 73. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these groups also differ by at least eight nucleotide substitutions in a 690 bp fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene and form separated groups of clusters in Bayesian inference tree. Thus, population entities from central Iran are described here as a new subspecies Polyommatus (Agrodiaetus) karindus saravandissp. n. Strong chromosomal and molecular differentiation are confirmed between P. (A.) karindus and its sister species, P. (A.) dama (Staudinger, 1892).
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A revision of the genus Muricea Lamouroux, 1821 (Anthozoa, Octocorallia) in the eastern Pacific. Part I: Eumuricea Verrill, 1869 revisited
Muricea is an amphi-American genus. Verrill proposed dividing the species from the Pacific Ocean into three genera and established the genus Eumuricea for five eastern Pacific species with tubular calyces. Eumuricea is basically characterized by colonies with elongate, cylindrical calyces with truncate margins and star-like opercula, and the occurrence of unilateral spinous spindles. According to these characteristics, Eumuricea does not show enough difference from Muricea to be treated as a separate genus. Original type material of Eumuricea was morphologically analysed and illustrated using optical and scanning electron microscopy. We conclude that the eastern Pacific species should be placed in the genus Muricea and form a group characterised by tubular calyces that comprises four species at present, M. acervata, M. hispida, M. squarrosa, and M. tubigera and a dubious species M. horrida. Lectotypes were designated for M. squarrosa and M. hispida to establish their taxonomic status. The genus Eumuricea has also been misunderstood by former authors who erroneously assigned species to it. For these species we propose new combinations: Swiftia pusilla, Astrogorgia splendens and A. ramosa.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Distribution of pelagic squids Abraliopsis Joubin, 1896 (Enoploteuthidae) and Pterygioteuthis P. Fischer, 1896 (Pyroteuthidae) (Cephalopoda, Decapodiformes, Oegopsida) in the Mexican Pacific
The oegopsid squids Abraliopsis and Pterygioteuthis are abundant and diverse genera with taxonomic and distributional problems. Identification and distribution of species in the Mexican Pacific has been somewhat controversial. Here are provided a large series of new records for Abraliopsis affinis, A. falco, Pterygioteuthis gemmata, P. giardi and P. hoylei from the Gulf of California and off the SW coast of Mexico. All five species were collected in the central or the southern Gulf of California, or in both. Abraliopsis affinis was found in seven samples with a total of 48 specimens, from 21°59' to 24°53'12"N. Abraliopsis falco was much less represented in the samples (14 specimens) but it was found in 10 localities, four of which correspond to the central-southern Gulf of California (north to 27°44'53"N) and six to SW Mexico (south to 16°49'18"N). In the case of Pterygioteuthis gemmata, only two records (three specimens) were obtained, both in the SW Gulf of California, while P. giardi (nine specimens) records were all from the central Gulf of California (27°44'53” to 25°39'59"N). In the case of P. hoylei (nine specimens), material was obtained in six localities, also in a restricted latitudinal range (24°23'48” to 25°56'56"N).
["Mexican Pacific"]
["Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Revision of the West Indian Wattius Kaszab (Tenebrionidae, Toxicini, Eudysantina) with lectotype designations for Pascoe’s South American species
The Wattius species occurring in the West Indies are revised for the first time. Wattius cucullatus (Pascoe), previously reported from Cuba, is diagnosed and restricted to Brazil. Wattius asperulus (Pascoe), currently a synonym of W. cucullatus, from Colombia is diagnosed and resurrected. All species found in the West Indies are endemic to the islands and form a single informal species-group. Three species are described: Wattius andersoni sp. n. from Cuba, Wattius emmabaconae sp. n. from Hispaniola (Dominican Republic), and Wattius viatorus sp. n. from Cuba and the Bahamas, and lectotypes are designated for Calymmus cucullatus Pascoe and Calymmus asperulus Pascoe. A key to the West Indian species is provided.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Checklist of recent brachiopod species collected during the Terrasses and Exbodi cruises in the New Caledonian region, SW Pacific
Twenty species belonging to 16 genera, i.e. Neoancistrocrania, Novocrania, Basiliola, Basiliolella, Ebiscothyris, Stenosarina, Kanakythyris, Xenobrochus, Terebratulina, Eucalathis, Fallax, Frenulina, Septicollarina, Campages, Annuloplatidia, and Thecidellina have been identified in the material collected during the Terrasses and Exbodi cruises in the New Caledonian region, SW Pacific. The species Basiliolella grayi (Woodward, 1855) and Fallax neocaledonensis Laurin, 1997 are the most common in the studied collection, while Eucalathis murrayi (Davidson, 1878) is reported for the first time from the New Caledonian region.
["Brachiopoda"]

Contribution to the knowledge of Galumnoidea (Acari, Oribatida) of Cuba
An annotated checklist of identified oribatid mites of the superfamily Galumnoidea collected from Cuba, including ten species from four genera and two families, is provided. Galumna flabellifera Hammer, 1958, Pergalumna bifissurata Hammer, 1972, P. bryani (Jacot, 1934), P. decorata Balogh & Mahunka, 1977 and Galumnopsis secunda Sellnick, 1923 are recorded for the first time in the Cuban fauna. A new species of Pergalumna, P. cubaensis sp. n., is described; it is morphologically similar to P. decorata Balogh & Mahunka, 1977, but differs from the latter by the larger body size, heavily granulated prodorsum and well-developed interlamellar setae. The adult of Allogalumna cubana Balogh & Mahunka, 1979 is redescribed.
["Oribatid mites"]

A new highly specialized cave harvestman from Brazil and the first blind species of the genus: Iandumoema smeagol sp. n. (Arachnida, Opiliones, Gonyleptidae)
A new species of troglobitic harvestman, Iandumoema smeagol sp. n., is described from Toca do Geraldo, Monjolos municipality, Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Iandumoema smeagol sp. n. is distinguished from the other two species of the genus by four exclusive characteristics – dorsal scutum areas with conspicuous tubercles, enlarged retrolateral spiniform tubercle on the distal third of femur IV, eyes absent and the penial ventral process slender and of approximately the same length of the stylus. The species is the most highly modified in the genus and its distribution is restricted only to caves in that particular area of Minas Gerais state. The type locality is not inside a legally protected area, and there are anthropogenic impacts in its surroundings. Therefore, Iandumoema smeagol sp. n. is vulnerable and it must be considered in future conservation projects.

Three new species of Hagnagora Druce, 1885 (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae) from Ecuador and Costa Rica and a concise revision of the genus
Three new Hagnagora Druce species (Geometridae, Larentiinae) are described: Hagnagora richardi Brehm, sp. n. from Ecuador, H. hedwigae Brehm, sp. n. from Ecuador, and H. mirandahenrichae Brehm, sp. n. from Costa Rica. A checklist of taxa assigned to Hagnagora is provided. Hagnagora is provisionally divided into six clades: the anicata clade (6 species), the buckleyi clade (3 species), the croceitincta clade (3 species), the ephestris clade (3 species), the mortipax clade (4 species) and H. subrosea (1 species). Two taxa are revived from synonymy: H. catagrammina Druce, stat. rev. and H. luteoradiata Thierry-Mieg, stat. rev. Two taxa are reinstated from subspecies to species level: H. acothysta Schaus, stat. rev. and H. jamaicensis Schaus, stat. rev. Four taxa are provisionally removed from Hagnagora: “Hagnagora” ignipennis, “Hagnagora” mesenata, “Hagnagora” vittata, and “Hagnagora” ceraria. After these changes, the genus Hagnagora now comprises 20 valid species.

The genus Pterostichus in China II: the subgenus Circinatus Sciaky, a species revision and phylogeny (Carabidae, Pterostichini)
All of the known species of the Chinese endemic subgenus Pterostichus (Circinatus) are revised, keyed, and illustrated. Eleven new species and one new subspecies are described: P. adelphus sp. n. (Sichuan: Meigu, N28.66°, E103.06°); P. ailaoicus sp. n. (Yunnan: Xinping, N23.94°, E101.50°); P. camelus sp. n. (Sichuan: Mianning, N28.97°, E102.16°); P. dimorphus sp. n. (Yunnan: Dayao, N26.08°, E101.03°); P. maitreya sp. n. (Guizhou: Fanjingshan, N27.90°, E108.70°); P. miao sp. n. (Guangxi: Maoershan, N25.87°, E110.41°); P. tumulus sp. n. (Guizhou: Fanjingshan, N27.90°, E108.70°); P. wangjiani sp. n. (Yunnan: Dongchuan, N26.08°, E102.87°); P. yan sp. n. (Hubei: Shennongjia, N31.47°, E110.39°); P. yuxiaodongi sp. n. (Sichuan: Wolong, N30.99°, E103.15°); P. zhygealu sp. n. (Sichuan: Meigu, N28.67°, E103.05°); and P. cavazzutianus mianningensis subsp. n. (Sichuan: Mianning, N28.97°, E102.16°). P. cavazzutianus is proposed as a replacement name for P. cavazuttii Allegro and Sciaky 2010, preoccupied by P. (Sinosteropus) barbarae cavazuttii Sciaky and Facchini 2003. A lectotype is designated for P. baenningeri Jedlička 1931. Two species, P. schuelkei Sciaky & Wrase and P. wenxianensis Allegro & Sciaky, are moved from the subgenus Circinatus to Morphohaptoderus. An infra-subgeneric taxonomy is proposed for the subgenus Circinatus with four species groups. The male endophallus characters for most species of Circinatus were well studied, with three types of endophallus defined. A phylogenetic analysis based on adult morphological characters confirmed the infra-subgeneric classification and clarified some of the relationships among species. Two main lineages within Circinatus were identified from the phylogenetic analyses. Three of the four species groups were monophyletic, whereas the fourth group was paraphyletic.

Annotated check list of the Pyraloidea (Lepidoptera) of America North of Mexico
An annotated check list of Pyraloidea of North America north of Mexico is presented, including 861 Crambidae and 681 Pyralidae with 1542 total species. It includes all new species described, tropical species with new records in the United States, and species introduced from Europe and Asia since 1983. The Notes section provides the seminal citations, data and/or commentary to all changes since 1983 for easy and future reference. In addition, this list proposes seven new generic combinations, the transfer of a phycitine species, Salebria nigricans (Hulst), to Epipaschiinae and its syn. n. with Pococera fuscolotella (Ragonot), and three new records for the United States. Purposefully, no new taxa are described here, but we found a gradual increase of 10% in the number of species described since 1983. Finally, we also include a list of thirteen species not included or removed from the MONA list. Many higher-level changes have occurred since 1983 and the classification is updated to reflect research over the last 30 years, including exclusion of Thyrididae and Hyblaeidae from the superfamily and recognition of Crambidae and Pyralidae as separate families. The list includes multiple changes to subfamilies based on morphology such as the synonymization of the Dichogamini with the Glaphyriinae, but also incorporating recent molecular phylogenetic results such as the synonymization of the Evergestinae with the Glaphyriinae.

Paratullbergia Womersley in China: the description of a new species and a key to the genus (Collembola, Tullbergiidae)
The genus Paratullbergia Womersley, 1930 is recorded for the first time from China. Paratullbergia changfengensis sp. n. from Shanghai is described and illustrated. It is characterized by the presence of 1+1 pseudocelli on thoracic segment I, with two pairs of pseudocelli on each of thoracic segments II and III, presence of seta px on abdominal segment IV, seta a2 and p4 on abdominal segment V as microsetae, and less differentiated sensory seta p3 on abdominal segment V. Both sexes present. The new species can be easily distinguished from its congeners by the presence of pseudocelli on thoracic segment I. An updated key to the world species of the genus Paratullbergia is provided.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Radioactive contamination and transfer"]

Genetic divergence analysis of the Common Barn Owl Tyto alba (Scopoli, 1769) and the Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus (Pontoppidan, 1763) from southern Chile using COI sequence
In this paper new mitochondrial COI sequences of Common Barn Owl Tyto alba (Scopoli, 1769) and Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus (Pontoppidan, 1763) from southern Chile are reported and compared with sequences from other parts of the World. The intraspecific genetic divergence (mean p-distance) was 4.6 to 5.5% for the Common Barn Owl in comparison with specimens from northern Europe and Australasia and 3.1% for the Short-eared Owl with respect to samples from north America, northern Europe and northern Asia. Phylogenetic analyses revealed three distinctive groups for the Common Barn Owl: (i) South America (Chile and Argentina) plus Central and North America, (ii) northern Europe and (iii) Australasia, and two distinctive groups for the Short-eared Owl: (i) South America (Chile and Argentina) and (ii) north America plus northern Europe and northern Asia. The level of genetic divergence observed in both species exceeds the upper limit of intraspecific comparisons reported previously for Strigiformes. Therefore, this suggests that further research is needed to assess the taxonomic status, particularly for the Chilean populations that, to date, have been identified as belonging to these species through traditional taxonomy.
["Aves"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new genus and species of cyclopoid (Crustacea, Copepoda, Cyclopinidae) from a coastal system in the Gulf of Mexico
A new, monotypic genus of the interstitial marine cyclopoid copepod family Cyclopinidae G.O. Sars, 1913 is described from male and female specimens collected at Laguna de Términos, a large coastal lagoon system in the southern Gulf of Mexico. Mexiclopina campechana gen. et sp. n. cannot be adequately placed in any extant genus within the family. It differs from other cyclopinid genera in having a unique combination of characters including: 1) absence of modified brush-like seta on the mandibular exopod; 2) maxillule exopod with stout setal elements and brush-like setae absent; 3) basis of mandible with one seta; 4) presence of a modified seta on endopod of fourth leg; 5) fifth leg exopod unsegmented, armed with three elements in the female and five in the male; 6) intercoxal sclerite of first swimming leg with two medial spiniform processes on distal margin. The new genus is monotypic and appears to be most closely related to Cyclopina Claus, 1863 and Heptnerina Ivanenko & Defaye, 2004; the new species was compared with species of Cyclopina and it resembles C. americana Herbst, 1982 and C. caissara Lotufo, 1994. This is the second record of a species of Cyclopinidae in Mexico and the first in the Gulf of Mexico; the number of cyclopinid species recorded from the Americas is now 13.
["Free-living copepods"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Description of a new genus and three new species of Otothyrinae (Siluriformes, Loricariidae)
The genus Hisonotus was resurrected as a member of the tribe Otothyrini (actually subfamily Otothyrinae). However, phylogenetic studies based on morphological and molecular data showed that Hisonotus is not monophyletic and independent lineages can be identified, such as the group composed of the species H. insperatus, H. luteofrenatus, H. oliveirai, H. paresi and H. piracanjuba, a lineage unrelated to that containing the type species of the genus Hisonotus (H. notatus). Herein, based in molecular and morphological data, a new genus is described to accommodate the lineage mentioned above, into which are also added three new species. This new genus can be distinguished from other genera of Otothyrinae by the following combination of characters: (1) a pair of rostral plates at the tip of the snout; (2) two large pre-nasal plates just posterior to the rostral plates; (3) a supra-opercular plate that receives the laterosensory canal from the compound pterotic before the preopercle; (4) a well developed membrane at anal opening in females; and (5) a V-shaped spinelet. A key to species of Curculionichthys is provided.
["Cascudinhos"]

Eriophyoid mites (Acari, Eriophyoidea) associated with tea plants, with descriptions of a new genus and two new species
A new genus and two new species of mites in the family Eriophyidae, Theaphyes rapaneae gen. n. and sp. n. which is found on the type host Rapanea neriifolia (Sieb. et Zucc.) Mez (Myrsinaceae) and Paracaphyllisa theacea sp. n., are described and illustrated. They are vagrants on the tea plant Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze and no apparent symptoms were detected. A key to the eriophyoid mites including thirteen species associated with tea plants all over the world is provided.
["Prostigmata"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Weed Control and Herbicide Applications"]

The genus Gymnetron from China with description of pre-imaginal stages of G. miyoshii, G. auliense and G. vittipenne (Coleoptera,Curculionidae)
There are four species of Gymnetron in China recorded to date including G. miyoshii Miyoshi, 1922, G. villosipenne Roelofs, 1875, G. auliense Reitter, 1907 and G. vittipenne Marseul, 1876, of which the last two are new country records. The pre-imaginal stages including eggs, mature larvae and pupae of G. miyoshii, G. auliense and G. vittipenne are described and illustrated. In addition, their diagnostic characters (larvae and pupae) are discussed and differentiated, and notes on some of their biological parameters are provided. Potential ecological impacts between Gymnetron weevils and their host Veronica spp. also are provided.
["Gymnetron"]
["Phytochemical compounds biological activities", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Review of the genus Hieromantis Meyrick from China, with descriptions of three new species (Lepidoptera, Stathmopodidae)
Six species of the genus Hieromantis occurring in China are reviewed. Hieromantis rectangula sp. n., H. arcuata sp. n. and H. puerensis sp. n. are described as new, and H. phaeodora Meyrick, 1929 is newly recorded in China. Photographs of adults and illustrations of genitalia are provided, along with an identification key and a distribution map.

A new Antaeotricha species from Florida sandhills and scrub (Lepidoptera, Depressariidae, Stenomatinae)
Antaeotricha floridella sp. n. is described and diagnosed from the closely similar A. albulella (Walker). The species is distributed in xeric sandhill and scrub habitats in peninsular Florida, USA, and larvae feed on Quercus species. Keys are given for pale-winged Stenomatinae and similar Gelechioidea based on external characters and genitalia.
["Quercus"]

Phytoseiid mites from tropical fruit trees in Bahia State, Brazil (Acari, Phytoseiidae)
The cultivation of tropical fruit trees has grown considerably in the state of Bahia, northeastern Brazil. Some of these have been severely attacked by phytophagous mites, which are usually controlled by the use of chemical pesticides. However, there is today a growing interest for the adoption of less aggressive measures of pest control, as for example the use of predatory mites. Most of the plant-inhabiting predatory mites belong to the family Phytoseiidae. The objective of this paper is to report the phytoseiid species found in an intensive survey conducted on cultivated tropical fruit trees in fifteen localities of the southern coast of Bahia. Measurements of relevant morphological characters are provided for each species, to complement the understanding of the morphological variation of these species. Twenty-nine species of sixteen genera were identified. A key was elaborated to assist in the separation of these species. Fifteen species are reported for the first time in the state, raising to sixty-six the number of species of this family now known from Bahia. Seventy-two percent of the species collected belong to Amblyseiinae, followed by Typhlodrominae (21%) and Phytoseiinae (7%). The most diverse genus was Amblyseius. Amblyseius operculatus De Leon was the most frequent and abundant species. Studies should be conducted to evaluate the possible role of the most common predators as control agents of the phytophagous mites co-occurring with them.
["Acarology"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Study of Mite Species"]

A catalogue of the scaleworm genus Lepidonotus (Polynoidae, Polychaeta) from South America, with two new records for Brazilian waters
The genus Lepidonotus is the largest in number of species within the Polynoidae, with more than 70 described species and subspecies. A catalogue of 18 nominal species and subspecies of Lepidonotus from South America is provided, with valid names, synonyms and original citations. Redescriptions and illustrations of two species based on new specimens collected along the littoral of the State of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil are included. Lepidonotus carinulatus and Lepidonotus natalensis are reported for the first time for Brazilian waters. A comparative table of characters for all reported species and subspecies of Lepidonotus from South America is provided.
["Benthos"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Review of the genus Urgleptes Dillon (1956) of Hispaniola (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Acanthocinini): descriptions of five new species and one new synonymy
The genus Urgleptes Dillon (1956) is reviewed for Hispaniola. Five new species of Urgleptes from the Dominican Republic are described herein: U. charynae Ravin & Lingafelter, sp. n. (La Vega province), U. conjunctus Ravin & Lingafelter, sp. n. (Peravia Prov.), U. curtipennis Ravin & Lingafelter, sp. n. (Independencia Prov.), U. marionae Ravin & Lingafelter, sp. n. (Monseñor Nouel Prov.), and U. obliteratus Ravin & Lingafelter, sp. n. (Pedernales Prov.). Two additional, previously described species are newly recorded for Hispaniola: U. puertoricensis Gilmour and U. sandersoni Gilmour. It is established that U. haitiensis Gilmour is a new synonym of U. sandersoni. Thus there are seven species of Urgleptes recorded for Hispaniola. For all species photographs, illustrations, full descriptions, distribution maps, and a dichotomous key are included for their identification.
["Longhorned beetle"]

A new species of the genus Baeoura from Morocco, with a key to the West Palaearctic species (Diptera, Tipuloidea, Limoniidae)
The genus Baeoura is represented in Morocco by two species, Baeoura ebenina Starý, 1981, and Baeoura staryi sp. n. The new species is described and illustrated, and a key to the West Palaearctic species of Baeoura is presented.

Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera on Isle Royale National Park, USA, compared to mainland species pool and size distribution
Extensive sampling for aquatic insects was conducted in the orders Ephemeroptera (mayflies), Plecoptera (stoneflies), and Trichoptera (caddisflies) (EPT) of Isle Royale National Park (ISRO), Michigan, United States of America, during summer 2013. The island was ice covered until 8,000 to 10,000 years ago and is isolated by 22–70 km distance from the mainland. Two hypotheses were examined: that ISRO EPT richness would be much reduced from the mainland, and that the species colonizing ISRO would be of smaller size than mainland, adults presumably using updrafts to bridge the distance from mainland sources. Data sets were developed for known mainland EPT species and size for those species. The first hypothesis was confirmed with the mainland species pool consisting of 417 EPT, while ISRO is known to support 73 species. Richness of EPT is directly related to the number of specimens examined. Small streams supported five EPT species, while 15–25 species were found in larger streams. Lakeshores had intermediate diversity. The second hypothesis was substantiated for stoneflies, but not for mayflies or caddisflies. Stoneflies apparently are poorer fliers than either of the other two orders.
["Isle Royale National Park"]

A second species of Cheleion from Johor, Malaysia (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Aphodiinae, Stereomerini)
A new species of the genus Cheleion Vårdal & Forshage, 2010, Cheleion jendeki sp. n., from Johor, Malaysia is described, illustrated and compared with the type species of the genus, C. malayanum Vårdal & Forshage, 2010. Photographs of the two species are presented. The adaptation to inquilinous lifestyle of Cheleion is compared with those in other beetle groups and briefly discussed.
["Cheleion"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of jumping spider Neonella Gertsch, with notes on the genus and male identification key (Araneae, Salticidae)
The American genus Neonella Gertsch, 1936 consists of very small jumping spiders whose biology is not well known. The genus currently includes eleven valid species, of which eight are known from both sexes and two are only known from one sex. This paper describes and illustrates a new species Neonella acostae sp. n., demonstrates male palpal variation in Neonella montana Galiano, 1988, and provides some information on the ecology of three sympatric species. New records of N. montana and N. minuta Galiano, 1965 are reported. Because the previously described species of Neonella were well illustrated and diagnosed, a dichotomous key to males is given along with genital illustrations of both sexes for all known species.

Pycnogonids associated with the giant lion´s-paw scallop Nodipecten subnodosus (Sowerby) in Ojo de Liebre Bay, Guerrero Negro, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Five species of epibenthic pycnogonids collected on the giant lion´s-paw scallop Nodipecten subnodosus are recorded. A new species of Eurycyde, E. bamberi, is described. Of the 19 species known in this genus; the new species is closest to E. hispida Kroyer, 1844 but differs from it in the absence of plumose spines and the shapes of the lateral process, first coxa, and ocular tubercle. The new species represents the third member of Eurycyde from the eastern Pacific in addition to E. spinosa Hilton, 1916 and E. clitellaria Stock, 1955. Besides E. bamberi, the following species were collected: Nymphopsis duodorsospinosa Hilton, 1942c; Callipallene californiensis (Hall, 1913); Nymphon lituus Child, 1979; and Pycnogonum rickettsi Schmitt, 1934. Pycnogonum rickettsi is recorded for first time from Mexican waters, as is Nymphon lituus from the western coast of Baja California Peninsula. Each of these four species are re-described and re-illustrated in order to fill in existing gaps in the literature of the region.
["Pycnogonida"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Biometry and phenology of two sibling Phylloscopus warblers on their circum-Mediterranean migrations
The Mediterranean Sea is known as an ecological barrier for numerous migratory birds flying from European breeding grounds to African wintering sites. Birds generally avoid migration over open sea and fly over land. In the Mediterranean Basin, few land bridges or bottlenecks for migratory birds exist. The narrowest are at the western and eastern extremes: the Strait of Gibraltar and Israel. Comparative studies between these locations are extremely rare to date. Therefore, in order to elucidate the differences between the two flyways, we compared data collected simultaneously for two sister leaf warbler species, the Bonelli’s Warbler complex, Phylloscopus bonelli and Ph. orientalis, at ringing stations in the western Mediterranean Basin Gibraltar, and the eastern Eilat, Israel. Data on biometrics and passage dates of individuals trapped at Gibraltar and Eilat were used, and it was found that mean arrival date of Western Bonelli’s Warblers at Gibraltar was 15 days later than Eastern Bonelli’s Warblers at Eilat. Furthermore, Western Bonelli’s Warblers had shorter wings than Eastern Bonelli’s Warblers. On the other hand, birds in Eilat were in poorer body condition than individuals in Gibraltar. The comparison between geographically distant stop-over sites contributes to furthering our understanding of the development of migration strategies across ecological barriers in sibling species. Our study showed that populations that breed in southwestern Europe migrate through Gibraltar and winter in West Africa are able to accomplish migration in comparatively good body condition. This is in contrast to those that winter in East Africa, migrate through Israel and have to endure the combined challenge of crossing the Sahel, Sahara and Sinai deserts before reaching their breeding grounds across southeast Europe and southwest Asia. Hence, the discrepancies described between the western and the eastern flyway suggest that individuals in the west, in general, migrate shorter distances, have a physiologically less demanding crossing of the North African deserts and appear to stage before their crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, a privilege unavailable to the migrants of the eastern flyway.
["geographical barrier"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A new species of Jesogammarus from the Iki Island, Japan (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Anisogammaridae)
A new species of anisogammarid amphipod, Jesogammarus (Jesogammarus) ikiensissp. n., is described from freshwaters in the Iki Island, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, based on results of morphological and molecular analyses. The new species is distinguished from all members of the genus by the combination of small number of setae on dorsal margins of pleonites 1–3, short and small number of setae on posterior margins of peduncular articles of antennae, mandibular article 1 without setae, well developed posterior lobes of accessory lobes of coxal gills on gnathopod 2 and pereopods 3–5, and pectinate setae on palmar margin of female gnathopod 2. A key to all the species of Jesogammarus is provided.
["Jesogammarus"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Two new Truncatelloidea species from Melissotrypa Cave in Greece (Caenogastropoda)
In the small lake located in the cave Melissotrypa in Thessalia, Greece, truncatelloidean gastropods representing two species were found, new to science. One of them, represented by two specimens only, has been described based on the shell characters only; with its cytochrome oxidase sequence it has been assigned to the genus Iglica, and to the family Moitessieriidae, Iglica hellenica sp. n. For the other species, represented by 30 collected specimens, the shell, protoconch, radula, head, penis and female reproductive organs have been described; all the morphological characters and cytochrome oxidase sequences have confirmed its assignment to the genus Daphniola (Hydrobiidae: Sadlerianinae), Daphniola magdalenae Falniowski, sp. n.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

New species of Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) from South and Central America
Three new species are described: Tropidion birai (Cerambycinae, Neoibidionini) from Bolivia; Chrysoprasis birai (Cerambycinae, Heteropsini) from Panama; and Recchia nearnsi (Lamiinae, Aerenicini) from Bolivia. The new species are included in amended versions of previously published keys to species of each genus.
["Longhorned beetle"]

Review of New Caledonian species of Oxyethira Eaton, with description of 17 new species, and new records for Hydroptila Dalman and Hellyethira Neboiss (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae)
New Caledonian representation of the cosmopolitan genus Oxyethira Eaton is reviewed, with the description of new species bringing to 26 the total for the genus on the island. The species are referred to three subgenera: Trichoglene Neboiss (11 species), Pacificotrichia Kelley (13 species) and Dampfitrichia Ulmer (one species) and one species is unplaced to subgenus. A key is provided to Oxyethira species of New Caledonia. In addition, new records are given for two otherwise Australian species, Hydroptila losida Mosely and Hellyethira malleoforma Wells. Points marked on a series of small maps of New Caledonia indicate the site or sites at which the species were collected. This final paper in a series of generic revisions brings the hydroptilid fauna of the island of New Caledonia to 60 species, distributed in six genera.
["Spicipalpia"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Acoustic, genetic and morphological variations within the katydid Gampsocleis sedakovii (Orthoptera, Tettigonioidea)
In an attempt to explain the variation within this species and clarify the subspecies classification, an analysis of the genetic, calling songs, and morphological variations within the species Gampsocleis sedakovii is presented from Inner Mongolia, China. Recordings were compared of the male calling songs and analysis performed of selected acoustic variables. This analysis is combined with sequencing of mtDNA - COI and examination of morphological traits to perform cluster analyses. The trees constructed from different datasets were structurally similar, bisecting the six geographical populations studied. Based on two large branches in the analysis, the species Gampsocleis sedakovii was partitioned into two subspecies, Gampsocleis sedakovii sedakovii (Fischer von Waldheim, 1846) and Gampsocleis sedakovii obscura (Walker, 1869). Comparing all the traits, the individual of Elunchun (ELC) was the intermediate type in this species according to the acoustic, genetic, and morphological characteristics. This study provides evidence for insect acoustic signal divergence and the process of subspeciation.
["Acoustics"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Contributions to the knowledge of oribatid mites of Indonesia. 2. The genus Pergalumna (Galumnidae) with description of a new species and key to known species in the Oriental region (Acari, Oribatida)
A new species of oribatid mite of the genus Pergalumna (Oribatida, Galumnidae) is described from litter and soil materials in Sumatra, Indonesia. Pergalumna paraindistincta sp. n. is morphologically most similar to P. indistincta Ermilov & Anichkin, 2011, P. pertrichosa Mahunka, 1995 and P. sura Balogh, 1997; however, the new species differs from P. indistincta by the smaller body size, presence of long adanal setae ad1, and large, single median pore in females and males; from P. pertrichosa by the smaller body size, presence of three pairs of notogastral porose areas, elongated A1 and minute anal setae; from P. sura by the presence of strong adanal setae ad1, large, single median pore in females and males, and shorter bothridial setae. Furthermore, Pergalumna hawaiiensis hawaiiensis (Jacot, 1934) and P. panayensis Ermilov & Corpuz-Raros, 2015 are recorded for the first time in the Indonesian fauna. An identification key to the known species of Pergalumna in the Oriental region is given.
["Oribatid mites"]

Contributions to the knowledge of oribatid mites of Indonesia. 1. The genus Allogalumna (Galumnidae) with descriptions of two new species (Acari, Oribatida)
Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Allogalumna (Oribatida, Galumnidae) are described from litter and soil materials of Sumatra, Indonesia. Allogalumna indonesiensis sp. n. is morphologically most similar to A. borhidii Balogh & Mahunka, 1979, A. quadrimaculata (Mahunka, 1988), A. rotundiceps Aoki, 1996 and A. plowmanae Balogh & Balogh, 1983; however, the new species differs by having densely ciliate bothridial heads, larger body size and absence of a median pore. Allogalumna paranovazealandica sp. n. is morphologically most similar to A. novazealandica Hammer, 1968; however, the new species differs by the shorter body length and barbed and curving postero-laterad bothridial setae. The genus Allogalumna is recorded for the first time in the Indonesian fauna.

Review of the genus Endothyrella Zilch, 1960 with description of five new species (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Plectopylidae)
All known taxa of the genus Endothyrella Zilch, 1960 (family Plectopylidae) are reviewed. Altogether 23 Endothyrella species are recognized. All species are illustrated and whenever possible, photographs of the available type specimens are provided. Five new species are described: E. angulata Budha & Páll-Gergely, sp. n., E. dolakhaensis Budha & Páll-Gergely, sp. n. and E. nepalica Budha & Páll-Gergely, sp. n. from Nepal, E. robustistriata Páll-Gergely, sp. n. from the Naga Hills, India, and E. inexpectata Páll-Gergely, sp. n. from Sichuan, China. Helix (Plectopylis) munipurensis Godwin-Austen, 1875 is synonymized with Helix (Plectopylis) serica Godwin-Austen, 1875, and Plectopylis (Endothyra) gregorsoni Gude, 1915 is synonymized with Helix (Plectopylis) macromphalus W. Blanford, 1870. Plectopylis plectostoma var. exerta Gude, 1901 is a synonym of Plectopylis plectostoma var. tricarinata Gude, 1896, which is a species in its own right. Five species of the genus Chersaecia viz. Plectopylis (Chersaecia) bedfordi Gude, 1915, Helix (Plectopylis) brahma Godwin-Austen, 1879, Helix (Plectopylis) Oglei Godwin-Austen, 1879, Helix (Plectopylis) serica Godwin-Austen, 1875, and Plectopylis (Endothyra) williamsoni Gude, 1915 are moved to Endothyrella. The holotype of Plectopylis hanleyi Godwin-Austen, 1879 seems to be lost; therefore, P. hanleyi is considered to be a nomen dubium.

Congruence between cytochrome oxidase I (COI) and morphological data in Anuraphis spp. (Hemiptera, Aphididae) with a comparison between the utility of the 5’ barcode and 3’ COI regions
The discrimination of species in the genus Anuraphis is particularly difficult due to the overlap of morphological characters. In this study, we used the 5’ (barcode) and 3’ regions of cytochrome oxidase I (COI) to test their utility in the identification of species in this genus as well as closely related species. Both regions were useful to discriminate all the species tested. However the non-barcode 3’ region resulted in higher resolution and support for species relationships when the data were analyzed using both Maximum Likelihood and MrBayes. We propose the development of an integrated database that encompasses morphological, molecular, life-cycle, host plant and bibliographic information to facilitate and increase the accuracy of aphid identification.
["Insects"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Phylogenetic revision of Minyomerus Horn, 1876 sec. Jansen & Franz, 2015 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) using taxonomic concept annotations and alignments
This contribution adopts the taxonomic concept annotation and alignment approach. Accordingly, and where indicated, previous and newly inferred meanings of taxonomic names are individuated according to one specific source. Articulations among these concepts and pairwise, logically consistent alignments of original and revisionary classifications are also provided, in addition to conventional nomenclatural provenance information. A phylogenetic revision of the broad-nosed weevil genera Minyomerus Horn, 1876 sec. O’Brien & Wibmer (1982), and Piscatopus Sleeper, 1960 sec. O’Brien & Wibmer (1982) (Curculionidae [non-focal]: Entiminae [non-focal]: Tanymecini [non-focal]) is presented. Prior to this study, Minyomerus sec. O’Brien & Wibmer (1982) contained seven species, whereas the monotypic Piscatopus sec. O’Brien & Wibmer (1982) was comprised solely of P. griseus Sleeper, 1960 sec. O’Brien & Wibmer (1982). We thoroughly redescribe these recognized species-level entities and furthermore describe ten species as new to science: M. bulbifrons sec. Jansen & Franz (2015) (henceforth: [JF2015]), sp. n., M. aeriballux [JF2015], sp. n., M. cracens [JF2015], sp. n., M. gravivultus [JF2015], sp. n., M. imberbus [JF2015], sp. n., M. reburrus [JF2015], sp. n., M. politus [JF2015], sp. n., M. puticulatus [JF2015], sp. n., M. rutellirostris [JF2015], sp. n., and M. trisetosus [JF2015], sp. n. A cladistic analysis using 46 morphological characters of 22 terminal taxa (5/17 outgroup/ingroup) yielded a single most-parsimonious cladogram (L = 82, CI = 65, RI = 82). The analysis strongly supports the monophyly of Minyomerus [JF2015] with eight unreversed synapomorphies, and places P. griseus sec. O’Brien & Wibmer (1982) within the genus as sister to M. rutellirostris [JF2015]. Accordingly, Piscatopus sec. Sleeper (1960), syn. n. is changed to junior synonymy of Minyomerus [JF2015], and its sole member P. griseus sec. Sleeper (1960) is moved to Minyomerus [JF2015] as M. griseus [JF2015], comb. n. In addition, the formerly designated type M. innocuus Horn, 1876 sec. Pierce (1913), syn. n. is changed to junior synonymy of M. microps (Say, 1831) [JF2015] which has priority. The genus is widespread throughout western North America, ranging from Canada to Mexico and Baja California. Apparent patterns of interspecific diversity of exterior and genitalic morphology, varying host plant ranges, overlapping and widely extending species distributions, suggest an early origin for Minyomerus [JF2015], with a diversification that likely followed the development of North American desert biomes. Three species in the genus – i.e., M. languidus Horn, 1876 [JF2015], M. microps [JF2015], and M. trisetosus [JF2015] – are putatively considered parthenogenetic.

A revision of the genus Doryodes Guenée, 1857, with descriptions of six new species (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Catocalinae, Euclidiini)
The genus Doryodes Guenée is revised to include ten species including six species described as new (D. desoto Lafontaine & Sullivan; D. okaloosa Sullivan & Lafontaine; D. fusselli Sullivan & Lafontaine; D. reineckei Sullivan & Lafontaine; D. broui Lafontaine & Sullivan; and D. latistriga Sullivan & Lafontaine). A key to species, descriptions, and illustrations of adults and genitalia are included.

Revision of the Lacinipolia vicina (Grote) complex (Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Eriopygini)
The Lacinipolia vicina (Grote) species complex, previously consisting of L. vicina, L. teligera (Morrison), L. pensilis (Grote), and L. subalba Mustelin is revised to six species: L. vicina (eastern USA), L. teligera (southern Great Plains), L. pensilis (Pacific Northwest and northern Rocky Mountains), L. acutipennis (Grote), stat. rev. (= L. subalba syn. n.) (western North America), L. sareta (Smith), stat. rev. (Canada and western USA) and L. dimocki, sp. n. (California and Pacific Northwest). Lectotypes are designated for L. vicina, L. teligera and L. pensilis.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Revision of the genus Aseptis McDunnough (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Xylenini) with a description of two new genera, Paraseptis and Viridiseptis
The genus Aseptis McDunnough (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Xylenini, Xylenina) is revised to include 15 species based on morphological and molecular data. Several new synonymies are introduced. In addition, two genera are described because of significant morphological differences from Aseptis: Paraseptis gen. n., and Viridiseptis gen. n., resulting in the new combinations Paraseptis adnixa (Grote), comb. n., and Viridiseptis marina (Grote), comb. n. Although this work is primarily based on morphological data, DNA sequence data for the 658-base pair “barcode” segment of the mitochondrial gene for subunit 1 of cytochrome c oxidase was used as a secondary support for taxonomic changes within Aseptis and for the two new genera. Our work should provide clarity and stability in a previously difficult genus.

Two new species of Xestoblatta Hebard, 1916 from Brazil, a redescription of Xestoblatta roppai Rocha e Silva Albuquerque & Fraga, 1975 and a key for the species of the buscki group (Blattodea, Ectobiidae, Blattellinae)
Two new species of Xestoblatta from northern Brazil are described, Xestoblatta buhrnheimi sp. n. and Xestoblatta rondonensis sp. n., included in the buscki group Gurney (1939), and new characters are added to the description of X. mamorensis Lopes & Oliveira, 2006. Xestoblatta roppai Rocha e Albuquerque-Silva & Fraga, 1975, from midwestern Brazil is redescribed, including its genital characters which were not previously described. Additionally, a key for the species of this group is provided, and photographs are given of the species in the habitus, of tergal modifications, and of the genitalia.

Three new species of Fonsecaiulus (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Cicadellini) from Brazil and key to species of the genus
Three new sharpshooter species of the genus Fonsecaiulus Young, 1977 are described and illustrated from specimens collected in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, F. rectangularis sp. n. and F. guttiformis sp. n. , and in the Brazilian Cerrado, F. filiformis sp. n. The descriptions are based on features from the external morphology, color pattern, and male and female genital structures. Comparisons of the three new taxa with the remaining six Fonsecaiulus species are provided. An identification key to males of all known species of the genus is given.
["Atlantic Forest"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Revised generic placement of Brachypelma embrithes (Chamberlin & Ivie, 1936) and Brachypelma angustum Valerio, 1980, with definition of the taxonomic features for identification of female Sericopelma Ausserer, 1875 (Araneae, Theraphosidae)
The tarantula genus Sericopelma was originally defined based on male specimens, most notably lacking tibial spurs on leg I. Early female specimens were unrecognised as Sericopelma, and typically placed in Eurypelma – a dumping ground for problem specimens. The first females were only later recognised, but authors failed to adequately define female Sericopelma. Here, the holotypes of the southern-most alleged Brachypelma species, B. embrithes (Chamberlin & Ivie, 1936) and B. angustum Valerio, 1980 were examined, and finding both to possess defining characteristics of Sericopelma were transferred. The taxonomic attributes to define Sericopelma relative to Brachypelma and select other Neotropical genera are discussed, especially for females. As important diagnostic characters for Sericopelma, the single (unilobar) spermathecae swollen at the apex forming a P-shaped cross-section, metatarsus IV with trace scopula, femur IV with a dense retrolateral pad of plumose hair, plus other attributes. Some past confusion in these characters are clarified and Sericopelma relative to Brachypelma and Megaphobema mesomelas are discussed. Finally recommendations are given about these taxonomic changes for CITES regulations.
["Spider taxonomy"]

A new species of Hemichela Stock, 1954 from the South China Sea (Arthropoda, Pycnogonida, Ammotheidae)
A new species of pycnogonid collected by the Chinese research vessel, R/V HY IV, during deep sea cruises to the South China Sea in 2013, is described. The new species, Hemichela nanhaiensis, obtained from more than 1300 m depth, is distinguished from the other two species in the genus by the characters of the chela dactylus with 12 denticulations on the inner margin and by the presence of taller tubercles on the lateral processes.

Description of Trichophoromyia ruifreitasi, a new phlebotomine species (Diptera, Psychodidae) from Acre State, Brazilian Amazon
Trichophoromyia ruifreitasi sp. n. is described as a new species of sand fly from the genus Trichophoromyia Barretto. This description is supported with illustrations and photographs that detail the morphological characteristics of male specimens collected in the municipality of Assis Brasil, Acre State, Brazilian Amazon. This species is similar to T. auraensis (Mangabeira), but the two species can be easily differentiated by the distribution of setae on their parameres, and by the presence of a dorsal lobe in the parameres of the new species.
["Sand fly"]
["Research on Leishmaniasis Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

Diagnostic survey of Malagasy Nesomyrmex species-groups and revision of hafahafa group species via morphology based cluster delimitation protocol
Madagascar and its surrounding islands are among the world’s greatest biodiversity hotspots, harboring predominantly endemic and threatened communities meriting special attention from biodiversity scientists. Building on the considerable efforts in recent years to inventory the Malagasy ant fauna, the myrmicine genus Nesomyrmex is reviewed and (1) subdivided into four major groups based on salient morphological features corroborated by numeric morphology: angulatus-, hafahafa-, madecassus- and sikorai-groups, and (2) the hafahafa species-group endemic to Madagascar is revised. Diversity within hafahafa species-group was assessed via hypothesis-free nest-centroid-clustering combined with gap statistic to assess the number of clusters and to determine the most probable boundaries between them. This combination of methods provides a highly automatized, objective species delineation protocol based on continuous morphometric data. Delimitations of clusters recognized by these exploratory analyses were tested via confirmatory Linear Discriminant Analysis. These results suggest the existence of four morphologically distinct species, Nesomyrmex capricornis sp. n., N. hafahafa sp. n., N. medusus sp. n. and N. spinosus sp. n.; all are described and an identification key for their worker castes using morphometric data is provided. Two members of the newly outlined hafahafa species-group, N. hafahafa sp. n., N. medusus sp. n., are distributed along the southeastern coast Madagascar and occupy rather large ranges, but two other species, N. capricornis sp. n. and N. spinosus sp. n., are only known to occur in small and isolated forest, highlighting the importance of small forest patches for conserving arthropod diversity.

Taxonomic studies on the ant genus Ponera Latreille, 1804 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), with the description of a new species from India
Four species of the ant genus Ponera Latreille, 1804, are recorded from India. The present study reports one new species P. sikkimensis sp. n., a divergent population of P. indica Bharti & Wachkoo, 2012 and one new record, P. paedericera Zhou, 2001 from India. An identification key and distributions for the four known Indian species of Ponera based on the worker caste are provided.
["Ponerinae"]

How small is the smallest? New record and remeasuring of Scydosella musawasensis Hall, 1999 (Coleoptera, Ptiliidae), the smallest known free-living insect
The smallest known beetle Scydosella musawasensis Hall is recorded for the second time. Precise measurements of its body size are given, and it is shown that the smallest examined representative of this species has a length of 325 µm.
["Smallest beetle"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Two new species of the genus Anisomysis (Anisomysis) (Crustacea, Mysida, Mysidae) from coral reef waters in Thailand
Two new species of Anisomysis Hansen, 1910 (Mysida, Mysidae), Anisomysis (Anisomysis) spinaintussp. n. and A. (A.) phuketensissp. n., from coral-reef waters in Thailand are described. Anisomysis (A.) spinaintus, collected in the Chaolao Beach, Chanthaburi Province, is distinguished from the closely allied species A. (A.) incisa Tattersall, 1936, and A. (A.) hawaiiensis Murano, 1995, by the presence of 6–9 spines on the apical cleft of telson, which are absent in the latter two allied species. The new species can also be distinguished from A. (A.) aikawai Ii, 1964, by the presence of a deep telson cleft and a large number of spines on the lateral margin of telson. A. (A.) phuketensissp. n., collected in Ko Lon, Phuket, is distinguished from the allied species A. (A.) robustispina Panampunnayil, 1984, by having a short telson and a pair of long spines on the apical part of the telson. Keys to the subgenera and species of Anisomysis, including the two new species, are presented.
["Anisomysis"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Two new phragmotic ant species from Africa: morphology and next-generation sequencing solve a caste association problem in the genus Carebara Westwood
Phragmotic or “door head” ants have evolved independently in several ant genera across the world, but in Africa only one case has been documented until now. Carebara elmenteitae (Patrizi) is known from only a single phragmotic major worker collected from sifted leaf-litter near Lake Elmenteita in Kenya, but here the worker castes of two species collected from Kakamega Forest, a small rainforest in Western Kenya, are studied. Phragmotic major workers were previously identified as Carebara elmenteitae and non-phragmotic major and minor workers were assigned to C. thoracica (Weber). Using evidence of both morphological and next-generation sequencing analysis, it is shown that phragmotic and non-phragmotic workers of the two different species are actually the same and that neither name – C. elmenteitae or C. thoracica – correctly applies to them. Instead, this and another closey related species from Ivory Coast are both morphologically different from C. elmenteitae, and thus they are described as the new species Carebara phragmotica sp. n. and Carebara lilith sp. n.
["Phragmosis"]

Taxonomic review and phylogenetic analysis of fifteen North American Entomobrya (Collembola, Entomobryidae), including four new species
The chaetotaxy of 15 species of eastern North American Entomobrya is redescribed in order to determine potential characters for the diagnosis of cryptic lineages and evaluate the diagnostic and phylogenetic utility of chaetotaxy. As a result, four new species (E. citrensis Katz & Soto-Adames, sp. n., E. jubata Katz & Soto-Adames, sp. n., E. neotenica Katz & Soto-Adames, sp. n. and E. unifasciata Katz & Soto-Adames, sp. n.) are described, and new diagnoses are provided for E. assuta Folsom, E. atrocincta Schött, E. decemfasciata (Packard), E. ligata Folsom, E. multifasciata (Tullberg), and E. quadrilineata (Bueker). Furthermore, previously undocumented levels of intraspecific variation in macrosetal pattern are reported, tempering the exclusive use of chaetotaxy for species delimitation. Phylogenetic relationships, estimated using both morphological and molecular data, indicate that Entomobrya is likely paraphyletic. The phylogenies also suggest that unreliable character homology, likely fostered by Entomobrya’s profusion of macrosetae, may limit the phylogenetic utility of chaetotaxy in groups characterized by an abundance of dorsal macrosetae.

New species without dead bodies: a case for photo-based descriptions, illustrated by a striking new species of Marleyimyia Hesse (Diptera, Bombyliidae) from South Africa
A new bombyliid species Marleyimyia xylocopae Marshall & Evenhuis, sp. n., an apparent mimic of the carpenter bee Xylocopa flavicollis (De Geer), is described from South Africa on the basis of photographs only. The pros and cons of species descriptions in the absence of preserved type specimens are discussed.
["South Africa"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Themus (Themus) Motschulsky from Yunnan, China and a redescription of T. (T.) testaceicollis Wittmer, 1983 (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
A new species is described, Themus (Themus) dimorphus sp. n. from Yunnan, China. Themus (Themus) testaceicollis Wittmer, 1983 is redescribed and compared with the new species. The two species are illustrated with habitus and genitalia of both sexes and abdominal sternites VIII of female.

Taxonomy and distribution of some katydids (Orthoptera Tettigoniidae) from tropical Africa
Results of the study of specimens collected in tropical Africa and preserved in different European collections and museums are reported and extensively illustrated. The following three new species are described: Horatosphaga aethiopica sp. n., Dapanera occulta sp. n. and Cestromoecha laeglae sp. n. In addition, new diagnostic characters or distributional data for Ruspolia differens (Serville, 1838), Thyridorhoptrum senegalense Krauss, 1877, Horatosphaga leggei (Kirby, 1909), Horatosphaga linearis (Rehn, 1910), Preussia lobatipes Karsch, 1890 and Dapanera eidmanni Ebner, 1943 are reported. Finally, Symmetropleura plana (Walker, 1869) is proposed to be transferred to the genus Symmetrokarschia Massa, 2015, Conocephalus carbonarius (Redtenbacher, 1891) to the genus Thyridorhoptrum Rehn & Hebard, 1915; the genus Gonatoxia Karsch, 1889 is proposed to be synonymized with Dapanera Karsch, 1889.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

A review of Canadian and Alaskan species of the genera Clusiota Casey and Atheta Thomson, subgenus Microdota Mulsant & Rey (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
This paper treats 13 species of the subgenus Microdota Mulsant & Rey of Atheta Thomson and 3 species of the genus Clusiota Casey in Canada and Alaska. We report here 4 species new to science, and 3 new provincial records. The following species are new to science: A. (M.) curtipenis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (M.) formicaensis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., A. (M.) macesi Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n., and Clusiota grandipenis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n. The new provincial records are: A. (M.) pseudosubtilis Klimaszewski & Langor, new to AB, and A. (M.) subtilis (Scriba), an adventive Palaearctic species new to North America, first reported in LB and NB. The two Clusiota Casey species are reviewed, and their distribution is revised. A female C. impressicollis was discovered in Ontario and is illustrated here for the first time. A key to all Canadian species of the subgenus Microdota and genus Clusiota are provided. Atheta (Microdota) holmbergi Bernhauer and A. (M.) alesi Klimaszewski & Brunke are transferred here to the subgenus Dimetrota Mulsant & Rey.
["Alaska"]

Pseudofornicia gen. n. (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae), a new Indo-Australian genus and one new species from Vietnam
Pseudofornicia gen. n. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Microgastrinae) is described (type species: P. nigrisoma sp. n. from Vietnam) including three Oriental (type species, P. flavoabdominis (He & Chen, 1994), comb. n. and P. vanachterbergi Long, (nom. n. for Fornicia achterbergi Long, 2007; not F. achterbergi Yang & Chen, 2006) and one Australian species (P. commoni (Austin & Dangerfield, 1992), comb. n.). Keys to genera with similar metasomal carapace and to species of the new genus are provided. The new genus shares the curved inner middle tibial spur, the comparatively small head, the median carina of the first metasomal tergite and the metasomal carapace with Fornicia Brullé, 1846, but has the first tergite movably joined to the second tergite and the third tergite 1.1–1.6 × as long as the second tergite medially and is flattened in lateral view. One of the included species is a primary homonym and is renamed in this paper.
["Fornicia"]

A new species of Mollitrichosiphum Suenaga from Taiwan Island (Hemiptera, Aphididae), based on morphological characteristics and DNA sequences
A new species of Mollitrichosiphum Suenaga, Mollitrichosiphum tumorisiphum Qiao & Jiang, sp. n., from Fagus longipetiolata in Taiwan island is described. Siphunculi of M. tumorisiphum in alatae are distinctly swollen on the distal part, unlike those of the other known species in the genus. Updated keys to apterous and alate viviparous females of all known Chinese species of Mollitrichosiphum are provided. The specimens studied are deposited in the National Zoological Museum of China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China and the Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom.
["Mollitrichosiphum"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Immatures of the New World treehopper tribe Amastrini (Hemiptera, Membracidae, Smiliinae) with a key to genera
The immatures stages of 8 of the 11 genera (Amastris Stål, Bajulata Ball, Erosne Stål, Harmonides Kirkaldy, Idioderma Van Duzee, Neotynelia Creão-Duarte & Sakakibara, Tynelia Stål, and Vanduzea Goding) of the tribe Amastrini are described for the first time along with brief diagnoses of Membracidae and the subfamily Smiliinae. A key to genera and notes on biology are provided. Multiple species of most genera are illustrated. Based on its distinct nymphal morphology, Vanduzea laeta nolina Ball is elevated to specific rank as Vanduzea nolina stat. n., and Bajulata, despite the superficial similarity of its adults to those of Vanduzea, is confirmed as warranting generic rank based on its unique nymphal morphology. Colombia is a new country record for Tynelia.
["Nymph"]

Redescription of Temnothorax antigoni (Forel, 1911) and description of its new social parasite Temnothorax curtisetosus sp. n. from Turkey (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Temnothorax antigoni (Forel, 1911) is redescribed basing on a new material from southwestern Turkey (Antalya province), Lesbos and Rhodes (Greece, Aegean and Dodecanese islands). The gyne of this species is described for the first time. Temnothorax curtisetosus, a new species of social parasite collected in a nest of T. antigoni, is described. Colour photos of both taxa are given. A key to the worker caste of the eastern Mediterranean species belonging to both T. recedens and T. muellerianus groups are provided.
["Mediterranean subregion"]

Checklist of the helminth parasites of the genus Profundulus Hubbs, 1924 (Cyprinodontiformes, Profundulidae), an endemic family of freshwater fishes in Middle-America
From December 2012 to November 2014, 267 fish belonging to the family Profundulidae (representing nine of the 11 species of the genus Profundulus) were collected in 26 localities of Middle-America, across southern Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, comprising the distribution range of the genus, and analyzed for helminth parasites. Additionally, a database with all ten available published accounts of the helminth parasite fauna of this genus (the only genus within the family) was assembled. Based on both sources of information, a checklist containing all the records was compiled as a tool to address future questions in the areas of evolutionary biology, biogeography, ecology and phylogeography of this host-parasite association. The helminth parasite fauna of this fish group consists of 20 nominal species, classified in 17 genera and 14 families. It includes six species of adult digeneans, five metacercariae, two monogeneans, one adult cestode, three adult nematodes and three larval nematodes. The profundulid fishes are parasitized by a specialized group of helminth species (e.g.Paracreptotrema blancoisensuSalgado-Maldonado et al. (2011b), Paracreptotrema profundulusi Salgado-Maldonado, Caspeta-Mandujano & Martínez Ramírez, 2011, Phyllodistomum spinopapillatum Pérez-Ponce de León, Pinacho-Pinacho, Mendoza-Garfias & García-Varela, 2015, Spinitectus humbertoi Mandujano-Caspeta & Moravec, 2000, S. mariaisabelae Caspeta-Mandujano Cabañas-Carranza & Salgado-Maldonado, 2007 and Rhabdochona salgadoi Mandujano-Caspeta & Moravec, 2000), representing the core helminth fauna that are not shared with other Middle-American fish species.
["Killifish"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Helminth infection and control"]

Croatian mayflies (Insecta, Ephemeroptera): species diversity and distribution patterns
Knowledge of the mayfly biodiversity in the Balkan Peninsula is still far from complete. Compared to the neighbouring countries, the mayfly fauna in Croatia is very poorly known. Situated at the crossroads of central and Mediterranean Europe and the Balkan Peninsula, Croatia is divided into two ecoregions: Dinaric western Balkan and Pannonian lowland. Mayflies were sampled between 2003 and 2013 at 171 sites, and a total of 66 species was recorded. Combined with the literature data, the Croatian mayfly fauna reached a total of 79 taxa. Of these, 29 species were recorded for the first time in Croatia while 15 species were not previously recorded in Dinaric western Balkan ecoregion. Based on the mayfly assemblage, sampling sites were first structured by ecoregion and then by habitat type. In comparison with the surrounding countries, the Croatian mayfly fauna is the most similar to the Hungarian and Bosnian fauna. Some morphologically interesting taxa such as Baetis cf. nubecularis Eaton, 1898 and Rhithrogena from the diaphana group were recorded. Ephemera cf. parnassiana Demoulin, 1958, the species previously recorded only from Greece, was also recorded.
["Ephemeroptera"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Seven new hypselostomatid species from China, including some of the world’s smallest land snails (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Orthurethra)
Seven new species of Hypselostomatidae are described from the Chinese province Guangxi: Angustopila dominikae Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n., A. fabella Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n., A. subelevata Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n., A. szekeresi Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n., Hypselostoma socialis Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n., H. lacrima Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n. and Krobylos sinensis Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n. The latter species is reported from three localities. All other new species are known only from the type locality. Specimens nearly identical to the type specimens of Angustopila huoyani Jochum, Slapnik & Páll-Gergely, 2014 were found in a cave in northern Guangxi, 500 km from the type locality. Adult individuals of Angustopila subelevata sp. n. (shell height = 0.83–0.91 mm, mean = 0.87 mm) and A. dominikae sp. n. (shell height of the holotype = 0.86 mm) represent the smallest known members of the Hypselostomatidae, and thus are amongst the smallest land snails ever reported. We note that Pyramidula laosensis Saurin, 1953 might also belong to Krobylos. Paraboysidia neglecta van Benthem Jutting, 1961, which was previously included in Angustopila, is classified in Hypselostoma.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Study of Mite Species"]

Five new cryptic freshwater gastropod species from New Caledonia (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea, Tateidae)
During the course of a project aiming at the reconstruction of the colonization of the South Pacific islands by tateid gastropods based on molecular data we discovered five new species on New Caledonia belonging to the genera Hemistomia and Leiorhagium, respectively. We describe these species based on morphological, anatomical and genetic data. All five species are morphologically cryptic as they closely resemble or are even indistinguishable from known species stressing the importance of a comprehensive taxonomic approach integrating several methods. As a consequence of their small and fragmented geographic ranges and the rapidly progressing anthropogenic land cover changes on New Caledonia, all five species qualify as critically endangered according to the criteria of the IUCN.

A remarkable new Awas Löbl from southern China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
A new distinctive species of the rare Oriental goniacerine genus Awas Löbl, A. gigas sp. n., is described and illustrated, based on three males and fourteen females taken at the Daoyao Shan Natural Reserve in the southern Chinese province of Guangxi. All specimens were collected from colonies of the ant genus Pachycondyla F. Smith nesting in decomposing woods.
["Awas"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Metacyclops from a hyporheic habitat in North Vietnam (Crustacea, Copepoda, Cyclopidae)
A new species of Metacyclops is described from hyporheic waters and small rock depression with leaf litter in North Vietnam, the Tam Đao Mountains). Metacyclops amicitiae sp. n. can be distinguished from its congeners by the unique combination of the following characters: 12-segmented antennule, distal segment of P4 endopodite bearing a single apical spine, and the surface ornamentation of the intercoxal sclerites in P1–P4 (pilose on the distal margin of P1-P4 and spinulose on the caudal surface of P4). The latter character separates the new Metacyclops from its closest relative, M. ryukyuensis, known only from the Ryukyu Islands (Ishigaki). The genus Metacyclops with the new species described herein is also for the first time recorded from Vietnam. An identification key is provided to the south and east Asian species of the genus.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Melithaeidae of Japan (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea) re-examined with descriptions of 11 new species
Japanese melithaeid type material is re-examined and re-described. The sclerites of the different species are depicted using Scanning Electron Microscopy. All Japanese species of the family Melithaeidae treated here belong to the genus Melithaea and are endemic to Japanese waters. Old museum material and newly collected specimens from Japanese waters are identified after comparison with this type material. Acabaria modesta var. abyssicola is regarded a separate species, here named Melithaea abyssicola (Kükenthal, 1909). In addition, 11 new species are described: M. boninensis sp. n., M. doederleini sp. n., M. isonoi sp. n., M. keramaensis sp. n., M. oyeni sp. n., M. ryukyukensis sp. n., M. sagamiensis sp. n., M. satsumaensis sp. n., M. suensoni sp. n., M. tanseii sp. n., and M. tokaraensis sp. n.. Pleurocorallium confusum Moroff, 1902, Pleurocoralloides formosum Moroff, 1902, Melitodes flabellifera Kükenthal, 1908, and Melitodes densa Kükenthal, 1908 are synonymized with Melithaea japonica (Verrill, 1865). We have designated a neotype for Melithaea mutsu Minobe, 1929. A key to the Japanese melithaeids is presented.
["Melithaea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Atarbolana makranensis, a new species of Cirolanidae (Crustacea, Isopoda) from Makran, Iranian coast of the Gulf of Oman
Atarbolana makranensis sp. n. is described from the intertidal zone of Makran along the Iranian coast of the Gulf of Oman. Atarbolana makranensis sp. n. can be recognized by the presence of a tuft of long setae on the antennal flagellum of males, elongate pleotelson with 12 robust marginal setae, pleotelson with narrowly rounded apex extending well beyond the uropodal endopod, uropodal endopod half as long as exopod with 14 robust marginal setae, and appendix masculina with an acute apex and extending beyond endopod distal margin. A key is provided for the four known species of Atarbolana Bruce & Javed, 1987.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and environmental studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A revision of the Australian digger wasps in the genus Sphex (Hymenoptera, Sphecidae)
The Australian species of the sphecid wasp genus Sphex are revised. Thirty-five species are recognized, of which 11 are new: Sphex argentatissimus, S. brevipetiolus, S. caelebs, S. corporosus, S. flammeus, S. fortunatus, S. gracilis, S. imporcatus, S. jucundus, S. latilobus and S. pretiosus. A dichotomous key covering all Australian species of the genus has been generated. The geographic distribution of all species is discussed based on all available locality records in relation to the Australian climate zones.
["Systematics"]

Two new species of Asellota (Crustacea, Isopoda) from coral reefs on Iriomote Island, Okinawa, Japan
Pleurocope iriomotensis sp. n. and Prethura tuberculata sp. n. are described from Iriomote Island, Ryukyu Archipelago, southern Japan. These are the first records of Pleurocope from the Pacific and of Prethura from the Asian Pacific coast. Pleurocope iriomotensis differs from its congeners in having lateral spine-like processes on pereonite 4 and coxal plates of pereonite 7. Prethura tuberculata can be distinguished from its single congener in having a lateral short projection of protopod of pleopod 2.

Male secondary sexual structures and the systematics of the Thereus oppia species group (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae, Eumaeini)
The Thereus oppia species group includes species with and without a scent pad, which is a histologically and morphologically characterized male secondary sexual structure on the dorsal surface of the forewing. To assess the hypothesis that these structures are lost evolutionarily, but not regained (Dollo’s Law), the taxonomy of this species group is revised. Thereus lomalarga sp. n., and Thereus brocki sp. n., are described. Diagnostic traits, especially male secondary structures, within the T. oppia species group are illustrated. Distributional and biological information is summarized for each species. Three species have been reared, and the caterpillars eat Loranthaceae. An inferred phylogeny is consistent with the hypothesis that scent pads in the T. oppia species group have been lost evolutionarily twice (in allopatry), and not re-gained.
["Dollo\u2019s Law"]

A new marine cyclopoid copepod of the genus Neocyclops (Cyclopidae, Halicyclopinae) from Korea
A new cyclopoid species of the genus Neocyclops Gurney, 1927 is described. Type specimens were collected from a beach on south-western coast of the Korean Peninsula by rinsing intertidal coarse sandy sediments. Neocyclops hoonsooi sp. n. is most characteristic in showing the conspicuous chitinized transverse ridges originating from the medial margins of the coxae of all swimming legs. The new species is most similar to N. vicinus, described from the Brazilian coast, and N. petkovskii, from Australia. All three species share a large body size (more than 750 µm long), the presence of an exopodal seta on the antenna, two setae on the mandibular palp, the same seta/spine armature on the third endopodal segment of leg 3 (3 setae + 3 spines), and the fairly long inner distal spine on the third endopodal segment of the female leg 4. However, N. hoonsooi sp. n. differs from both species by the much shorter caudal rami (less than 1.7 times as long as wide) and the shorter dorsal caudal seta VII. Furthermore, N. hoonsooi is clearly distinguished from N. vicinus by the 10-segmented antennule (vs 12 segments in N. vicinus), and from N. petkovskii by the elongate inner distal spine on leg 5 exopod and the 3-segmented leg 5 in male (vs 4-segmented in N. petkovskii). A tabular comparison of characters separating N. hoonsooi from its closest allies and a key to Neocyclops species from the Indo-Pacific Ocean are provided. This is the first record of the genus Neocyclops from the northern Pacific.
["Beach"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A new case of an Holarctic element in the Colombian Andes: first record of Cordyla Meigen (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) from the Neotropical region
Three new species of Mycetophilidae – Cordyla monticola sp. n., Cordyla pseudopusilla sp. n. and Cordyla reducta sp. n. – are described from the Colombian Andes, representing the first described species of Cordyla Meigen from the Neotropical region. Colour photos of their habitus, wing and terminalia are provided. The morphological affinities of male terminalia are discussed in a worldwide context. The distributional pattern of the genus clearly indicates a case of northern elements reaching the north-western region of the Neotropics that corresponds to a secondary extension of a Holarctic clade to the south.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

DNA barcoding of euryglossine bees and the description of new species of Euhesma Michener (Hymenoptera, Colletidae, Euryglossinae)
This paper launches an open access DNA barcoding project “AUSBS” under the Barcoding of Life Datasystems (BOLD). The aims of the project are to help scientists who lack the necessary morphological knowledge to identify known species using molecular markers, to aid native bee specialists with the recognition of species groups that morphologically are difficult to define, and, eventually, to assist with the recognition of new species among known species. Using integrative taxonomy, i.e. morphological comparison to type specimens in Australian museum collections combined with phylogenetic analysis of a fragment of the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) gene sequences led to the recognition of four new species of Euhesma Michener (Hymenoptera: Colletidae: Euryglossini) collected during intensive surveys in remote Australian conservation areas, which are described. The new species are E. micans, E. lyngouriae, and E. aulaca in a species group associated with Eremophila flowers, and E. albamala in the walkeriana species group.
["barcoding"]

Taxonomy of reproductive Nereididae (Annelida) in multispecies swarms at Ambon Island, Indonesia
Multispecies, or mass, spawning of different invertebrate species is well known for coral reef systems; however, incidences involving polychaetes are poorly documented. In this study we report on mass swarming, prior to spawning, of Nereididae at Ambon Island, Maluku, on three occasions: in 1866, inferred from an historical sample deposited in Naturalis, Leiden, and in March, 2009 and 2014, based on newly collected samples. The 2009 and 2014 events co-occurred with spawning of other polychaetes, known locally as wawo and including the widespread Indo-Pacific eunicid, Palola viridis (Gray in Stair). Ten species of reproductive Nereididae are described, including Composetia marmorata (Horst) new combination, formerly Ceratonereis marmorata; epitokous modifications are described for both sexes of each species including taxonomically important features such as body colour and number of pre-natatory chaetigers. Three distinct types of natatory region morphologies are recognized, which appear to characterise groups of genera. The ten new records brings to 13 the total number of nereidid species known to undergo mass swarming at Ambon Island; a key to the 13 species is provided. Species composition varies slightly between the three time periods: four species were common between all three periods, five species were in common between 1866 and 2014, and four species were in common between 1995 and 2009/14. Two species of Neanthes and one of Nereis are identified as potentially new and will be described in subsequent papers.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Rediscovery of Nuvol umbrosus Navás (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae, Leucochrysini): a redescription and discussion
The monotypic leucochrysine genus Nuvol was previously known from three specimens of Nuvol umbrosus Navás, collected in the Atlantic Forest region of Brazil. For many years these specimens have been missing, and the genus has remained without a modern description. Here, the species is redescribed based on two newly discovered specimens (females) from the Amazonian region. The female terminalia are relatively simple, except for the subgenitale, which is enlarged, folded into two sections, and heavily sclerotized. Unique aspects of the wing venation and the unusual pattern of banding on the wings support the retention of Nuvol as a valid genus within the Leucochrysini. There are differences between the Amazonian specimens studied here and the earlier descriptions based on specimens from the Atlantic Forest. These differences may indicate the presence of two distinct, geographically separated species within the genus. However, largely because we do not know the sexes of the earlier specimens, we are treating the differences discovered in the two female specimens as expressions of intraspecific variation.
["Chrysopinae"]

The morphology of the preimaginal stages of Squamapion elongatum (Germar, 1817) (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea, Apionidae) and notes on its biology
Data on the morphology of the egg, mature larva (L3) and pupa of Squamapion elongatum (Germar, 1817) are presented. The development cycle of this species lasts 51–54 days: a 12-day egg period, a 30-day larval period, and a 12-day pupal period, on average. The larvae are attacked by parasitic hymenopterans of the superfamily Chalcidoidea.
["Weevil"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Additions to the checklist of Scoliidae, Sphecidae, Pompilidae and Vespidae of Peru, with notes on the endemic status of some species (Hymenoptera, Aculeata)
The first checklist of the Peruvian Hymenoptera listed 1169 species and subspecies of aculeate wasps, including 173 species of Pompilidae, seven of Scoliidae, 39 of Sphecidae and 403 of Vespidae. Herein are reported 32 species as new for Peru based mainly on the collection of the Natural History Museum, London. The loss of the endemic status of two species is also reported: Entypus peruvianus (Rohwer) (Pompilidae: Pepsinae) and Omicron ruficolle schunkei Giordani Soika (Vespidae: Eumeninae).

Richness, systematics, and distribution of molluscs associated with the macroalga Gigartina skottsbergii in the Strait of Magellan, Chile: A biogeographic affinity study
Knowledge about the marine malacofauna in the Magellan Region has been gained from many scientific expeditions that were carried out during the 19th century. However, despite the information that exists about molluscs in the Magellan Region, there is a lack of studies about assemblages of molluscs co-occurring with macroalgae, especially commercially exploitable algae such as Gigartina skottsbergii, a species that currently represents the largest portion of carrageenans within the Chilean industry. The objective of this study is to inform about the richness, systematics, and distribution of the species of molluscs associated with natural beds in the Strait of Magellan. A total of 120 samples from quadrates of 0.25 m2 were obtained by SCUBA diving at two sites within the Strait of Magellan. Sampling occurred seasonally between autumn 2010 and summer 2011: 15 quadrates were collected at each site and season. A total of 852 individuals, corresponding to 42 species of molluscs belonging to Polyplacophora (9 species), Gastropoda (24), and Bivalvia (9), were identified. The species richness recorded represents a value above the average richness of those reported in studies carried out in the last 40 years in sublittoral bottoms of the Strait of Magellan. The biogeographic affinity indicates that the majority of those species (38%) present an endemic Magellanic distribution, while the rest have a wide distribution in the Magellanic-Pacific, Magellanic-Atlantic, and Magellanic-Southern Ocean. The molluscs from the Magellan Region serve as study models for biogeographic relationships that can explain long-reaching patterns and are meaningful in evaluating possible ecosystemic changes generated by natural causes or related to human activities.
["Mollusca"]

Eight new species of the spider genera Raveniola and Sinopesa from China and Vietnam (Araneae, Nemesiidae)
Eight new species, seven Raveniola Zonstein, 1987 and one Sinopesa Raven & Schwendinger, 1995 from China and Vietnam are described: Raveniola alpina sp. n., R. bellula sp. n., R. chayi sp. n., R. gracilis sp. n., R. rugosa sp. n., R. spirula sp. n. and R. yajiangensis sp. n. and Sinopesa ninhbinhensis sp. n. Keys to all East-Asian congeners, diagnoses of the new species, and new distribution data of R. montana Zonstein & Marusik, 2012, with a first record for Sichuan, China, are provided.

Does the genetic structure of spring snail Bythinella (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea) in Bulgaria reflect geological history?
Bythinella is a minute dioecious caenogastropod that inhabits springs in central and southern Europe. In the Balkans, previous studies have addressed its morphological and genetic differentiation within Greece and Romania while the Bulgarian species have remained poorly known. The aim of the present paper has been to expand the knowledge on the subject in Bulgaria. Shell morphology and anatomy of the reproductive organs were examined, and a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene and the nuclear ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 (ITS-1) were sequenced from 15 populations. Additional sequences from eight previously studied populations were included in our analyses. Phylogenetic analyses revealed five main mitochondrial DNA clades, which were partly confirmed by analyses of the ITS-1 sequences. The genetic differentiation between the clades was found to be in the range p=2.4-11.8%. Most of the populations belonged to clade I, representing B. hansboetersi, and were distributed in SW Bulgaria. Clades II and III inhabit areas adjacent to clade I and were most closely related with the latter clade. Much more distinct were clade V, found at one locality in NW Bulgaria, and clade IV, found at one locality in SE Bulgaria, close to the sea. Four populations were found in caves, but only one of these represented a distinct clade. Considering the observed pattern of interpopulation differentiation of Bythinella in Bulgaria, we can suppose that isolation between clades I, II and III may have been caused by glaciations during the Pleistocene. The time of isolation between the above three clades and clade IV coincides with the Messinian Salinity Crisis, and the time of isolation between the clade V and the other four most probably reflects the isolation of the Rhodopes from western Balkan Mts by the seawater of the Dacic Basin.

Redescriptions of Nereis oligohalina (Rioja, 1946) and N. garwoodi González-Escalante & Salazar-Vallejo, 2003 and description of N. confusa sp. n. (Annelida, Nereididae)
Type material of several polychaete species described by Enrique Rioja from Mexican coasts are lost, and the current status of some species is doubtful. Nereis oligohalina (Rioja, 1946) was described from the Gulf of Mexico, but it has been considered a junior synonym of N. occidentalis Hartman, 1945, or regarded as a distinct species with an amphiamerican distribution. On the other hand, N. garwoodi González-Escalante & Salazar-Vallejo, 2003, described from Chetumal Bay, Caribbean coasts, could be confused with N. oligohalina. In order to clarify these uncertainties, N. oligohalina is redescribed based on specimens from the Mexican Gulf of Mexico, including a proposed neotype; further, N. garwoodi is redescribed including the selection of lectotype and paralectotypes, and N. confusa sp. n. is described with material from the Gulf of California. A key for the identification of similar species and some comments about speciation in nereidid polychaetes are also included.
["Amphiamerican"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Leucothoe eltoni sp. n., a new species of commensal leucothoid amphipod from coral reefs in Raja Ampat, Indonesia (Crustacea, Amphipoda)
A new species of leucothoid amphipod, Leucothoe eltoni sp. n., is described from coral reefs in Raja Ampat, Indonesia where it inhabits the branchial chambers of solitary tunicates. With an inflated first gnathopod superficially resembling the genus Paraleucothoe, this new species has a two-articulate maxilla 1 palp characteristic of the genus Leucothoe. While described from coral reef environments in tropical Indonesia and the Philippines, it is an established invasive species in the Hawaiian Islands. The most likely mode of introduction was a US Navy dry dock transported to Pearl Harbor in 1992 from Subic Bay, Philippines.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Checklist of tortoise beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae) from Colombia with new data and description of a new species
A new tortoise beetle species, Cyrtonota abrili, is described from the Antioquia and Caldas departments in Colombia. New faunistic data are provided for 87 species, including 16 new additions to the country’s fauna. A checklist of the known 238 species of tortoise beetles recorded from Colombia is given.

A new genus and species of dalodesmid millipede from New South Wales, Australia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Dalodesmidae)
Cernethia inopinata gen. n., sp. n. is described from highland New South Wales. Like other dalodesmids the new species has numerous sphaerotrichomes on the legs of adult males, but C. inopinata sp. n. shares several character states with Tasmanian species in the genera Noteremus Mesibov, 2009, Paredrodesmus Mesibov, 2003 and Procophorella Mesibov, 2003, which lack sphaerotrichomes and have not yet been assigned to family within the suborder Dalodesmoidea.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new cave-dwelling species of the millipede genus Paracortina Wang & Zhang, 1993 from southern China (Diplopoda, Callipodida, Paracortinidae)
Two new species of the millipede genus Paracortina Wang & Zhang, 1993 are described. Both are presumed troglophiles: P. zhangi sp. n. from a cave in Ceheng County, southwestern Guizhou Province and P. yinae sp. n. from a cave in Longlin County, western Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. A distribution map and a key to all 12 Paracortina species are also provided.
["Paracortina"]

A new species of Monoliropus Mayer, 1903 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Caprellidae) from Korean waters
A new species of the genus Monoliropus belonging to the family Caprellidae was collected from the Yellow Sea, Korea. The new species differs from Monoliropus agilis Mayer, 1903, M. kazemii Momtazi & Sari, 2013, and Triprotella amica Arimoto, 1970 as follows: 1) gnathopod 1 subrectangular; 2) pereonites 2–3 with acute triangular processes anterolaterally; 3) mandibular palp, apical article with four simple setae subdistally. The new species is fully illustrated and extensively compared with related species. This is the first record of the genus Monoliropus from Korean waters. A key to Monoliropus species is also given.
["Monoliropus"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and Coastal Research"]

New species and new records in Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) of the state of Bahia, Brazil
Two new species are described from Bahia (Brazil): Coleoxestia beckeri (Cerambycini), and Oncioderes obliqua (Onciderini). Nine species are recorded for the first time for Bahia (Brazil). Key to species of Oncioderes Martins & Galileo, 1990 is provided. Coleoxestia beckeri is included in a previous key.
["Neotropical"]

Review of the planthopper genus Neodurium Fennah, 1956 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae)
The planthopper genus Neodurium Fennah is reviewed and N. fennahi Chang & Chen, sp. n. (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Issidae) from China (Yunnan), is described and illustrated. A checklist of the species of Neodurium is given and a key provided for their separation. The female genitalia of Neodurium species are described for the first time.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Lamprops donghaensis sp. n. (Crustacea, Cumacea, Lampropidae), a new species from Korean waters
A new species of Cumacea belonging to the genus Lamprops Sars was collected from the East Sea of Korea. This new species resembles Lamprops comatus Zimmer, L. carinatus Hart, L. flavus Harada, L. pumilio Zimmer, L. tomalesi Gladfelter, and L. obfuscatus (Gladfelter) in lacking lateral oblique ridges on the carapace and lateral setae on the telson. The new species, however, is distinguished from its congeners by having a dorsal concave groove and a lateral rounded depressed area on pereonite 2. The new species is fully illustrated and compared with related species. A key to the world Lamprops species lacking lateral ridges on the carapace is also provided.
["Cumacea"]

A new member of troglobitic Carychiidae, Koreozospeum nodongense gen. et sp. n. (Gastropoda, Eupulmonata, Ellobioidea) is described from Korea
A new genus of troglobitic Carychiidae Jeffreys, 1830 is designated from Nodong Cave, North Chungcheong Province, Danyang, South Korea. This remarkable find represents a great range extension and thus, a highly distant distribution of troglobitic Carychiidae in Asia. The Zospeum-like, carychiid snails were recently included, without a formal description, in records documenting Korean malacofauna. The present paper describes Koreozospeum Jochum & Prozorova, gen. n. and illustrates the type species, K. nodongense Lee, Prozorova & Jochum, sp. n. using novel Nano-CT images, including a video, internal shell morphology, SEM and SEM-EDX elemental compositional analysis of the shell.
["Cave-dwelling species"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Scleractinian corals (Fungiidae, Agariciidae and Euphylliidae) of Pulau Layang-Layang, Spratly Islands, with a note on Pavona maldivensis (Gardiner, 1905)
Layang-Layang is a small island part of an oceanic atoll in the Spratly Islands off Sabah, Malaysia. As the reef coral fauna in this part of the South China Sea is poorly known, a survey was carried out in 2013 to study the species composition of the scleractinian coral families Fungiidae, Agariciidae and Euphylliidae. A total of 56 species was recorded. The addition of three previously reported coral species brings the total to 59, consisting of 32 Fungiidae, 22 Agariciidae, and five Euphylliidae. Of these, 32 species are new records for Layang-Layang, which include five rarely reported species, i.e., the fungiids Lithophyllon ranjithi, Podabacia sinai, Sandalolitha boucheti, and the agariciids Leptoseris kalayaanensis and L. troglodyta. The coral fauna of Layang-Layang is poor compared to other areas in Sabah, which may be related to its recovery from a crown-of-thorns seastar outbreak in 2010, and its low habitat diversity, which is dominated by reef slopes consisting of steep outer walls. Based on integrative molecular and morphological analyses, a Pavona variety with small and extremely thin coralla was revealed as P. maldivensis. Since specimens from Sabah previously identified as P. maldivensis were found to belong to P. explanulata, the affinities and distinctions of P. maldivensis and P. explanulata are discussed.
["Scleractinia"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Geological and Geophysical Studies"]

Aenictus hoelldobleri sp. n., a new species of the Aenictus ceylonicus group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from China, with a key to the Chinese members of the group
Aenictus is the most species-rich genus of army ants in the subfamily Dorylinae and one of the most species rich ant genera in China and the world. In this paper, a new species of the Aenictus ceylonicus group, Aenictus hoelldobleri sp. n., is described and illustrated based on the worker caste. The new species occurs in the subtropical forests of south-east China and is morphologically most similar to A. henanensis Li & Wang, 2005 and A. wudangshanensis Wang, 2006. Aenictus hoelldobleri sp. n. can be distinguished from both species by the shape of the subpetiolar process. The new species also resembles Aenictus lifuiae Terayama 1984 and A. thailandianus Terayama & Kubota, 1993 but clearly differs in various features of the cuticular sculpture. A key to the Chinese species of the A. ceylonicus group based on the worker caste is provided, which may help to reassess and clarify the taxonomic status of the abundant Chinese records of the true A. ceylonicus (Mayr, 1866), a species which almost certainly does not occur in China. Several new locality records are given, among them the first record of A. watanasiti Jaitrong & Yamane, 2013 from China.
["Army ants"]

The spider family Filistatidae (Araneae) in Iran
All species of Filistatidae occurring in Iran are surveyed. Zaitunia akhanii sp. n. is described on the basis of female specimens collected in Tehran province, and the previously unknown male of Sahastata sinuspersica Marusik, Zamani & Mirshamsi, 2014 is described for the first time. Also, the endogynes of the holotypes of Z. alexandri Brignoli, 1982, Z. medica Brignoli, 1982 and Z. persica Brignoli, 1982 are illustrated. Including these results, the number of Iranian species of Filistatidae is increased to seven, which indicates the highest species-richness of this family in the Western Palaearctic.
["Fauna"]

Descriptions of two new species of Aelurillus Simon, 1884 (Araneae, Salticidae) from the Mediterranean, with the synonymization of A. steliosi Dobroruka, 2002
Two Aelurillus species are described as new, A. alboclypeus sp. n. (♂♀, from Turkey) and A. deltshevi sp. n. (♂, from Macedonia, Bulgaria and Azerbaijan). Aelurillus steliosi Dobroruka, 2002 is synonymized with A. leipoldae (Metzner, 1999). Additional distributions of the closely related species A. v-insignitus are provided for the region of study. Distributional maps are provided for the five species reported in this paper.

Description of a new species of Petrolisthes in the Indo-West Pacific with a redefinition of P. hastatus Stimpson, 1858 and resurrection of P. inermis (Heller, 1862) (Crustacea, Anomura, Porcellanidae)
The porcellanid crab Petrolisthes hastatus Stimpson, 1858, has been traditionally viewed as a highly variable species with a wide distribution in the West Pacific. For more than a century there has been taxonomic confusion of this species with morphologically similar taxa, some of which were synonymized with Stimpson’s taxon. We redefine P. hastatus, resurrect P. inermis as a valid species, discuss the status of P. tenkatei De Man, 1893, and describe a new species as P. elegantissimus from Indonesia.

A new species of Noblella (Amphibia, Anura, Craugastoridae) from the humid montane forests of Cusco, Peru
A new species of Noblella is described from the humid montane forest of the Región Cusco in Peru. Specimens were collected at 2330–2370 m elevation in Madre Selva, near Santa Ana, in the province of La Convención. The new species is readily distinguished from all other species of Noblella by having a broad, irregularly shaped, white mark on black background on chest and belly. The new species further differs from known Peruvian species of Noblella by the combination of the following characters: tympanic membrane absent, small tubercles on the upper eyelid and on dorsum, tarsal tubercles or folds absent, tips of digits not expanded, no circumferential grooves on digits, dark brown facial mask and lateral band extending from the tip of the snout to the inguinal region. The new species has a snout-to-vent length of 15.6 mm in one adult male and 17.6 mm in one adult female. Like other recently described species in the genus, this new Noblella inhabits high-elevation forests in the Andes and likely has a restricted geographic distribution.
["Frog"]

Three new species and distributional records for Paramaronius Wittmer (Coleoptera, Cantharidae, Chauliognathinae)
Three new species of Paramaronius Wittmer from southeastern Brazil are described and illustrated: P. serranus sp. n., P. brancuccii sp. n. and P. cavipennis sp. n. Paramaronius impressipennis (Pic) is redescribed, with supplementary description of the female. This species is recorded from Northeastern Brazil for the first time and its distribution pattern is discussed. A distribution map of Paramaronius in South America is provided. An identification key to all known species of the genus as well as photographs are given.
["Chauliognathini"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new genus of water mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Wettinidae) from bromeliad phytotelmata in the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest
Adults of Bromeliacarus cardoso gen. n., sp. n. are described from phytotelmata of Quesnelia arvensis (Vellozo) Mez. (Bromeliaceae) in the subtropical area of the Atlantic rainforest, São Paulo State, Brazil. The new genus Bromeliacarus is proposed and diagnosed, based primarily on the autapomorphic presence of 7–9 pairs of acetabula flanking the gonopore. A possible relationship between Bromeliacarus and other Wettinidae are discussed.
["Water mite"]

Three new species of the genus Aporcelaimoides Heyns, 1965 from Vietnam (Nematoda, Dorylaimida, Aporcelaimidae), with an updated taxonomy of the genus
Three new species of Aporcelaimoides from natural habitats in Vietnam are studied, described and illustrated, including line drawings, LM and/or SEM pictures. Aporcelaimoides brevistylum sp. n. is characterized by its body 1.95–2.90 mm long, lip region offset by deep constriction and 17–18 µm broad, ventral side of mural odontostyle 11–14 µm long with aperture occupying 62–71% of its length, neck 663–767 µm long, pharyngeal expansion occupying 58–66% of total neck length, uterus a simple tube 85–182 µm long, pars refringens vaginae absent, V = 55–63, tail short and rounded (34–46 µm, c = 49–76, c’ = 0.6–0.8), spicules 67–86 µm long, and one ventromedian supplement out the range of spicules. Aporcelaimoides minor sp. n. is distinguished in having body 2.09–2.61 mm long, lip region offset by deep constriction and 19–20 µm broad, mural odontostyle 14–16 µm long at its ventral side with aperture occupying 73–84% of its length, neck 579–649 µm long, pharyngeal expansion occupying 57–66% of total neck length, uterus a simple tube 44–69 µm long, pars refringens vaginae well developed, V = 48–56, female tail very short, rounded conoid or truncate (14–26 µm, c = 90–146, c’ = 0.3–0.6), and male unknown. Aporcelaimoides silvaticum sp. n. is characterized by its body 2.09–2.60 mm long, lip region offset by depression and 17–18 µm broad, mural odontostyle 11–12 µm long at its ventral side with aperture occupying 60–66% of its length, neck 597–720 µm long, pharyngeal expansion occupying 58–64% of total neck length, uterus a simple tube 128–243 µm long, pars refringens vaginae well developed, V = 58–60, tail short and rounded (27–37 µm, c = 67–94, c’ = 0.6–0.7), spicules 64–75 µm long, and two or three widely spaced ventromedian supplements bearing hiatus. The genus Aporcelaimoides is restored, its diagnosis emended, and three species of Sectonema, namely S. amazonicum, S. haguei and S. moderatum, transferred to it. An updated list of its species, a key to their identification and a tabular compendium with the most important morphometric features are also presented.

Demography of some non-native isopods (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) in a Mid-Atlantic forest, USA
Introduced species dominate the terrestrial isopod fauna in most inland habitats of North America, including urban landscapes. These non-native species are often very abundant and thus potentially play a significant role in detritus processing. We monitored isopod assemblages in an urban forest for a year to examine the relationship between surface activity and abiotic environmental factors, and to analyze reproductive characteristics that might contribute to their successful establishment. Using pitfall trap samples we recorded five species, two of which, Trachelipus rathkii and Cylisticus convexus, were highly abundant. We determined size, sex and reproductive state of each individual. Surface activity of both species reflected variability in abiotic stress factors for isopods, such as soil moisture and soil temperature. Early spring the main trigger was soil temperature while later in the season increasing temperature and decreasing soil moisture jointly affected population dynamics. Activity significantly correlated with soil moisture. The temporal pattern of sex ratios supported the secondary sex ratio hypothesis. Males dominated the samples on the onset of the mating season in search of females. The pattern was reversed as females searched for suitable microsites for their offspring. Size independent fecundity decreased as conditions became more stressful late in the season.
["Abiotic drivers"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The agnarid terrestrial isopods (Isopoda, Oniscidea, Agnaridae) of the province of Qazvin, Iran, with a description of a new species
Six species of terrestrial isopods from the province of Qazvin, central Iran, are recorded. Three species, Hemilepistus klugii (Brandt, 1833), Protracheoniscus ehsani Kashani, 2014 and Mongoloniscus persicus Kashani, 2014, were previously reported from the province. Hemilepistus elongatus Budde-Lund, 1885 and Protracheoniscus major (Dollfus, 1903) are recorded for the first time, and one species, Protracheoniscus sarii sp. n., is described as new. The diagnostic characters of the new species are figured.
["Oniscidea"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

First record and redescription of the terrestrial isopod Hemilepistoides messerianus Borutzky, 1945 (Isopoda, Oniscidea) from Iran
In the present study, Hemilepistoides messerianus Borutzky, 1945 is reported from Iran for the first time. This species is redescribed and diagnostic characters of both males and females are illustrated. This species is characterized by the tuberculation of all parts of the dorsal surface of the body and the male pleopod endopodite I with a triangular lobe at apex. A map with the distribution of species is presented.
["Oniscidea"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

The terrestrial Isopoda (Crustacea, Oniscidea) of Rapa Nui (Easter Island), with descriptions of two new species
Nine species of terrestrial isopods are reported for the Polynesian island of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) based upon museum materials and recent collections from field sampling. Most of these animals are non-native species, but two are new to science: Styloniscus manuvaka sp. n. and Hawaiioscia rapui sp. n. Of these, the former is believed to be a Polynesian endemic as it has been recorded from Rapa Iti, Austral Islands, while the latter is identified as a Rapa Nui island endemic. Both of these new species are considered ‘disturbance relicts’ and appear restricted to the cave environment on Rapa Nui. A short key to all the oniscidean species presently recorded from Rapa Nui is provided. We also offered conservation and management recommendations for the two new isopod species.
["Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

An Asiatic Chironomid in Brazil: morphology, DNA barcode and bionomics
In most freshwater ecosystems, aquatic insects are dominant in terms of diversity; however, there is a disproportionately low number of records of alien species when compared to other freshwater organisms. The Chironomidae is one aquatic insect family that includes some examples of alien species around the world. During a study on aquatic insects in Amazonas state (Brazil), we collected specimens of Chironomidae that are similar, at the morphological level, to Chironomus kiiensis Tokunaga and Chironomus striatipennis Kieffer, both with distributions restricted to Asia. The objectives of this study were to provide morphological information on this Chironomus population, to investigate its identity using DNA barcoding and, to provide bionomic information about this species. Chironomus DNA barcode data were obtained from GenBank and Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD) and, together with our data, were analyzed using the neighbor-joining method with 1000 bootstrap replicates and the genetic distances were estimated using the Kimura-2-parameter. At the morphological level, the Brazilian population cannot be distinguished either from C. striatipennis or C. kiiensis, configuring a species complex but, at the molecular level our studied population is placed in a clade together with C. striatipennis, from South Korea. Bionomic characteristics of the Brazilian Chironomus population differ from the ones of C. kiiensis from Japan, the only species in this species complex with bionomic information available. The Brazilian Chironomus population has a smaller size, the double of the number of eggs and inhabits oligotrophic water, in artificial container. In the molecular analysis, populations of C. striatipennis and C. kiiensis are placed in a clade, formed by two groups: Group A (which includes populations from both named species, from different Asiatic regions and our Brazilian population) and Group B (with populations of C. kiiensis from Japan and South Korea). Genetic distance between the Brazilian population and specimens in Group A suggests that it was recently introduced in Brazil, and that its country of origin is probably South Korea.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Cytotaxonomy of unionid freshwater mussels (Unionoida, Unionidae) from northeastern Thailand with description of a new species
Morphological and chromosomal characteristics of a number of unionid freshwater mussels were studied from northeastern Thailand. Karyotypes of eight species from seven genera (Chamberlainia, Ensidens, Hyriopsis, Physunio, Pseudodon, Scabies and Trapezoideus) were examined. Six species possess 2n = 38 karyotypes, whereas Scabies crispata and an unidentified Scabies sp. lack three small chromosome pairs, giving a diploid number of 32. Moreover, the karyotypes of the unidentified Scabies differ from S. crispata as it exhibits a telocentric chromosome pair (6m + 7sm + 2st + 1t). Most of the conchological characters also differ between the two species – adult size, colour pattern, muscle scars, pseudocardinal and lateral teeth. The name Scabies songkramensis sp. n. is proposed for the unidentified species, and its description is included in this paper. Interestingly, seven species contain mostly bi-armed chromosomes, but only the mud-dweller in stagnant water, Ensidens ingallsianus, contains predominantly five telocentric pairs. In addition, the marker chromosome characteristics of an unbalanced long arm, twisted centromere, a wider angle 180° arrangement, a twisted arm and telomeric end union reported in this study are described for the first time for unionid mussels.
["Chromosome"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Shoulder and Clavicle Injuries", "Medical Imaging and Pathology Studies"]

A new species of nectar-feeding bat, genus Lonchophylla, from the Caatinga of Brazil (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae)
We describe Lonchophylla inexpectata sp. n. from the Caatinga of Brazil. This new species can be distinguished from all known species of Lonchophylla that occur in Brazil by dental traits, cranial size, and fur colour. Specimens of L. inexpectata have been misidentified as L. mordax; but L. inexpectata is a pale-venter species, similar in external appearance to L. dekeyseri. We have found L. inexpectata in the Caatinga of North-eastern Brazil; L. mordax along the eastern border of the Caatinga and in the Atlantic Forest–Caatinga ecotone in North-eastern Brazil; and L. dekeyseri in the Cerrado of Mid-western Brazil, in the Brazilian Cerrado–Caatinga ecotone, and as far west as the Cerrado of Bolivia.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Pushing the limits – two new species of Pteromalus (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae) from Central Europe with remarkable morphology
Two new species, Pteromalus briani sp. n. and P. janstai sp. n., with unusual characters are described from the Central Plateau and the Alps in Switzerland, respectively. P. briani sp. n. is remarkable in that it has the metatibia quite abruptly expanded before the middle. This type of modification of the hind tibia is unique within the Pteromalidae and probably also the entire Chalcidoidea. It is also very rare in other parasitic wasps, where it is suspected to be associated with pheromone glands. The species is a gregarious endoparasitoid of pupae of Vanessa atalanta (Linnaeus) and Aglais urticae (Linnaeus), two common butterflies (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) in Europe. It is furthermore a koinobiont parasitoid ovipositing in an early larval stage of the host. The other species, P. janstai sp. n., shows a flattened mesosoma. A dorsoventrally depressed body is a unique feature within the genus Pteromalus, but known from a number species in unrelated genera and subfamilies. The two records demonstrate that it is possible to discover entirely new species with extraordinary characters even in one of the taxonomically most thoroughly explored parts of the world.
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Five new species of Phintella Strand, 1906 (Araneae, Salticidae) from the Wuling Mountains, China
Five new species of Phintella are described from the Wuling Mountains, China: Phintella arcuata sp. n. (male and female), Phintella levii sp. n. (female), Phintella panda sp. n. (female), Phintella pulcherrima sp. n. (male and female), and Phintella wulingensis sp. n. (female). Distribution data, detailed morphological characteristics, and illustrations of body and genital organs are presented.
["Jumping spider"]

A new species of Zachaeus C.L. Koch from Turkey (Opiliones, Phalangiidae)
A new species of harvestmen, Zachaeus seyyari sp. n. (Opiliones, Phalangiidae), is described and illustrated on the basis of both sexes from Şırnak Province in Turkey. Differences between the new species and related species are indicated. Photographs of its characteristic structures are also provided.
["Opiliones"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Taxonomic status of the Columbia duskysnail (Truncatelloidea, Amnicolidae, Colligyrus)
Undescribed freshwater snails (Amnicolidae: Colligyrus) from the Mount Hood region (northwestern United States) identified as a new species (commonly known as the Columbia duskysnail) in grey literature have been provided federal protection under the “survey and manage” provisions of the Northwest Forest Plan and have been placed on conservation watch lists. However, there are no published studies of the identity of these snails aside from a molecular phylogenetic analysis which delineated a close relationship between the single sampled population and C. greggi, which is distributed more than 750 km to the east of the Mount Hood area. Here we examine the taxonomic status of the Columbia duskysnail based on additional molecular sampling of mitochondrial DNA sequences (COI) and morphological evidence. We found that the Columbia duskysnail is not a monophyletic group and forms a strongly supported clade with C. greggi. The COI divergence between these broadly disjunct groups (2.1%) was somewhat larger than that within C. greggi (1.0%) but considerably less than that among the three currently recognized species of Colligyrus (8.7–12.1%). Additionally we found that the Columbia duskysnail and C. greggi cannot be consistently differentiated by previously reported diagnostic characters (size and shape of shell spire, pigmentation of body and penis) and are closely similar in other aspects of morphology. Based on these results we conclude that the Columbia duskysnail is conspecific with C. greggi.

A new, mesophotic Coryphopterus goby (Teleostei, Gobiidae) from the southern Caribbean, with comments on relationships and depth distributions within the genus
A new species of western Atlantic Coryphopterus is described from mesophotic depths off Curaçao, southern Caribbean. Coryphopterus curasub sp. n., is similar to C. dicrus in, among other features, having two prominent pigment spots of roughly equal intensity on the pectoral-fin base, the pelvic fins fused to form a disk, and no pelvic frenum. The two species can be differentiated by body depth (shallower in C. curasub at origin of dorsal fin and caudal peduncle); differences in the pigmentation on the head, trunk, and basicaudal region; and usually by total number of rays (spinous plus soft) in the second dorsal fin (10–11, usually 11, in C. curasub, 10 in C. dicrus). Coryphopterus curasub differs from other Coryphopterus species that have a prominent pigment spot on the lower portion of the pectoral-fin base (C. punctipectophorus and C. venezuelae) in, among other features, lacking a pelvic frenum. Coryphopterus curasub was collected between 70 and 80 m, the deepest depth range known for the genus. Collections of C. venezuelae at depths of 65–69 m extend the depth range of that species by approximately 50 m. Mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) data corroborate the recognition of C. curasub as a distinct species but do not rigorously resolve its relationships within the genus. A revised key to the western Atlantic species of Coryphopterus is presented.
["Coryphopterus"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Four new species of Cymatodera Gray from central and southern Mexico (Coleoptera, Cleridae, Tillinae)
Four new species of Cymatodera are described from Mexico: C. tortuosa Burke & Rifkind, sp. n. from Hidalgo and Tamaulipas; C. ortegae Burke, sp. n. from Colima, Jalisco and Michoacan; C. gerstmeieri Burke & Rifkind, sp. n. from Chiapas; and C. mixteca Burke & Rifkind, sp. n. from Puebla and Guerrero. Male genitalia and other characters of taxonomic value are illustrated.
["Cleridae"]

Description of two new filtering carnivore Drusus species (Limnephilidae, Drusinae) from the Western Balkans
Two new species of the genus Drusus (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae, Drusinae) from the Western Balkans are described. Additionally, observations on the biodiversity and threats to the region’s endemic aquatic fauna are discussed. Drusus krpachi sp. n. is a micro-endemic of the Korab Mountains, Macedonia, and D. malickyi sp. n. is a micro-endemic of the Prokletije Mountains, Albania. Both new species are most similar to D. macedonicus but differ from the latter in the shape of segment IX, the shape of the tips of the intermediate appendages in lateral view, the shape of the inferior appendages, and the form and shape of the parameres. In addition, males of the European species of filtering carnivore Drusinae are diagnosed and illustrated, including Cryptothrix nebulicola McLachlan, Drusus chrysotus Rambur, D. discolor Rambur, D. macedonicus Schmid, D. meridionalis Kumanski, D. muelleri McLachlan, D. romanicus Murgoci and Botosaneanu, and D. siveci Malicky. These additions to the Western Balkan fauna demonstrate the significance of this region for European biodiversity and further highlight the importance of faunistic studies in Europe.
["Caddisfly"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Australian Allograpta Osten Sacken (Diptera, Syrphidae)
Allograpta terraenovae sp. n. and Allograpta notiale sp. n. are described from Australia. Notes on the Australian species of Allograpta and an identification key to them are also given. The lectotype of Allograpta javana Wiedemann is designated, and the species Syrphus pallidus Bigot is synonymized under Allograpta australensis (Schiner).

New records of Limoniidae and Pediciidae (Diptera) from Croatia
New records are provided for Limoniidae and Pediciidae from Croatia, with new distribution records for species in 12 different genera. Four genera and 18 species are newly recorded for Croatia. Until now, including this data, 87 Limoniidae and eight Pediciidae have been recorded from Croatia. In this paper we confirm presence of Ormosia (Oreophila) bergrothi (Strobl, 1895) and we give the first records of Dicranota (Paradicranota) pavida (Haliday, 1833) and Molophilus (Molophilus) repentinus Starý, 1971 from Balkan Peninsula.
["Lipsothrix"]

Four new species of Desmiphorini (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
Four new species of Desmiphorini are described: Desmiphora (Desmiphora) orozcoi, from Belize; Estola wappesi, from Bolivia; Estola imitatrix, from Bolivia; and Gyrpanetes clarkei, from Bolivia. A key to the species of Gyrpanetes is provided, and E. wappesi and E. imitatrix are included in an existing key.

Taxonomy of the hyper-diverse ant genus Tetramorium Mayr in the Malagasy region (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) – first record of the T. setigerum species group and additions to the Malagasy species groups with an updated illustrated identification key
In this study we provide an update to the taxonomy of the ant genus Tetramorium Mayr in Madagascar. We report the first record of the T. setigerum species group in Madagascar and describe the only Malagasy representative as T. cavernicola sp. n., which is known only from a cave in Ankarana. In addition, we provide an overview of the 19 proposed Malagasy species groups, and discuss their zoogeography and relationships to other groups and larger lineages within the hyper-diverse genus Tetramorium. At present, we recognise a highly unique Malagasy Tetramorium fauna with 113 species endemic to the island of Madagascar out of a total of 125 translating into an endemism rate of 93%. We hypothesise that this fauna is based on one or a few colonisation events from the Afrotropical region, with subsequent adaptive radiation in Madagascar. Furthermore, we present an updated and illustrated identification key to the Tetramorium species groups in the Malagasy region.

A new flea of the genus Ctenidiosomus (Siphonaptera, Pygiopsyllidae) from Salta Province, Argentina
A new species of flea of the genus Ctenidiosomus Jordan, 1931 (Siphonaptera: Pygiopsyllidae) is described from Phyllotis osilae J. A. Allen, 1901, from Salta Province, Argentina. This is the first time that Ctenidiosomus has been recorded in Argentina. A key to species of males of Ctenidiosomus is presented.
["Ctenidiosomus"]
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

A new species group in Megaselia, the lucifrons group, with description of a new species (Diptera, Phoridae)
With 1,400 described species, Megaselia is one of the most species-rich genera in the animal kingdom, and at the same time one of the least studied. An important obstacle to taxonomic progress is the lack of knowledge concerning the phylogenetic structure within the genus. Classification of Megaselia at the level of subgenus is incomplete although Schmitz addressed several groups of species in a series of monographs published from 1956 to 1981. Another problem is the lack of molecular phylogenetic analyses to support morphology-based conclusions. As a contribution towards addressing these problems, we here circumscribe a previously unrecognized monophyletic lineage of Megaselia consisting of species similar to M. lucifrons. We base this taxonomic decision on morphological study of an extensive phorid material from Sweden, complemented by molecular analyses of select exemplars using two markers (COI and 28S). We name the clade the lucifrons species group, and show that it contains three distinct species. Our results also demonstrate that Megaselia subnitida Lundbeck, 1920, previously treated as a synonym of M. lucifrons Schmitz, 1918, is a separate species, and we remove it from synonymy. The third species in the group was previously unknown; we describe it here as M. albalucifrons sp. n.
["Phoridae"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

A new species of Agaporomorphus Zimmermann, 1921 from Peru (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Agaporomorphus julianeae sp. n. is described from the Biological Field Station Panguana, in Huànuco province of central Peru. The new species belongs to the A. knischi-group sensu Miller 2005. Together with A. knischi Zimmermann, 1921 and A. colberti Miller & Wheeler, 2008 this is the third species of the genus with broadly enlarged male antennomeres. The new species can be separated from A. colberti and A. knischi by the smaller please expanded male antennomere VIII, and the form of the median lobe. Important species characters (median lobe, male antennae, metafemur, colour pattern) of the new species and A. knischi are figured, and the habitat, a temporary blackwater forest pond, and its species rich water beetle coenosis are illustrated and described in detail. The Brazilian A. mecolobus Miller, 2001, only known from the type material from Sao Paulo, is here recorded for Minas Gerais. Habitus photos of four additional Agaporomorphus species and Hydrodytes opalinus (Zimmermann, 1921) are provided. Altogether ten species of Agaporomorphus are now known.
["Dytiscidae"]

What is Tetramorium semilaeve André, 1883? (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Tetramorium semilaeve André, 1883 is redescribed based on the type series and new material from terra typica (Pyrénées-Orientales). Lectotype worker is designated. Detailed descriptions of gyne and male are given. A review of material from the Mediterranean area suggests that in the past the name Tetramorium semilaeve has been applied to more than one species and the true T. semilaeve is common only in the western part of the Mediterranean basin. The structure of the male genitalia is the most reliable set of characters allowing a proper distinction of species in Tetramorium semilaeve species group. All names attributed to the former name “semilaeve” are discussed.
["Mediterranean Subregion"]

The genus Trachionus Haliday, 1833 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) new for China, with description of four new species
The genus Trachionus Haliday, 1833 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae, Dacnusini) is reported for the first time from China. The genus is represented by four new species from Shaanxi province (NW China), which are described and illustrated. An identification key to the species in China is presented, a key to the genera of the Trachionus group and notes on the relationships with other Palaearctic species are added.

Five new Platocoelotes species (Araneae, Agelenidae) from caves in southern China
Five new Platocoelotes species are described based on both sexes collected from caves in southern China. They are: P. luoi sp. n. from Jiangxi, P. qinglinensis sp. n. from Yunnan, P. shuiensis sp. n. from Guizhou, P. tianyangensis sp. n. from Sichuan and P. xianwuensis sp. n. from Hubei.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Helminths of three species of opossums (Mammalia, Didelphidae) from Mexico
From August 2011 to November 2013, 68 opossums (8 Didelphis sp., 40 Didelphis virginiana, 15 Didelphis marsupialis, and 5 Philander opossum) were collected in 18 localities from 12 Mexican states. A total of 12,188 helminths representing 21 taxa were identified (6 trematodes, 2 cestodes, 3 acanthocephalans and 10 nematodes). Sixty-six new locality records, 9 new host records, and one species, the trematode Brachylaima didelphus, is added to the composition of the helminth fauna of the opossums in Mexico. These data, in conjunction with previous records, bring the number of taxa parasitizing the Mexican terrestrial marsupials to 41. Among these species, we recognized a group of helminths typical of didelphids in other parts of the Americas. This group is constituted by the trematode Rhopalias coronatus, the acanthocephalan Oligacanthorhynchus microcephalus and the nematodes Cruzia tentaculata, Gnathostoma turgidum, and Turgida turgida. In general, the helminth fauna of each didelphid species showed a stable taxonomic composition with respect to previously sampled sites. This situation suggests that the rate of accumulation of helminth species in the inventory of these 3 species of terrestrial marsupials in the Neotropical portion of Mexico is decreasing; however, new samplings in the Nearctic portion of this country will probably increase the richness of the helminthological inventory of this group of mammals.
["Didelphidae"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Rabbits: Nutrition, Reproduction, Health"]

A review of the omicrine genera Omicrogiton, Mircogioton and Peratogonus of China (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Sphaeridiinae)
The Chinese species of the genera Omicrogiton Orchymont, 1919, Peratogonus Sharp, 1884 and Mircogioton Orchymont, 1937 are reviewed, diagnosed and keyed. Mircogioton and Omicrogiton are reported for the first time from China, Peratogonus for the first time for mainland China. Five species are recognized: Omicrogiton coomani Balfour-Browne, 1939 (Guangdong, Hongkong), O. hainanensis sp. n. (Hainan), O. roberti sp. n. (Hainan), Mircogioton coomani Orchymont, 1937 (Yunnan), and Peratogonus reversus Sharp, 1884 (Guangdong, Jiangxi, Taiwan). Lectotype of Omicrogiton coomani is designated. Mircogioton cognitus (Malcolm, 1981), syn. n. is considered a junior subjective synonym of M. coomani Orchymont, 1939. Species of Mircogioton and Omicrogiton inhabit decaying banana trunks, whereas Peratogonus reversus was always collected from moist forest leaf litter.
["Hydrophilidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Contribution to the genus Xanthocorus Miyatake (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Chilocorini)
The genus Xanthocorus Miyatake, 1970 consists of three species from China, including two new species described here: X. nigrosuturalis sp. n. and X. mucronatus sp. n. A key to identification of species is given. Diagnoses, detailed descriptions, illustrations, and distributions are provided.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Tumidusternus, a new genus of Aspidimerini from China (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
Tumidusternus gen. n., along with T. fujianensis sp. n. (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Aspidimerini) from China is described and illustrated. A key to the tribe Aspidimerini is given.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

In the shadow of a megalopolis, a new Flexamia from a threatened grass species in the New Jersey Pine Barrens (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae, Paralimnini)
A previously unknown species of the North American leafhopper genus Flexamia, F. whitcombi sp. n., is described from pinebarren smokegrass (Muhlenbergia torreyana (Schult.) Hitchc.), a state-listed threatened grass in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. The serrata species group, to which it belongs, is redefined and a key to the species of the group is provided. This is the first reported insect association with M. torreyana.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

A new genus and species of octocoral with aragonite calcium-carbonate skeleton (Octocorallia, Helioporacea) from Okinawa, Japan
A new genus and species of octocoral with a calcium-carbonate skeleton, Nanipora kamurai sp. n., is described from a shallow coral reef in Okinawa, Japan. Contrary to most octocorals, the skeleton is composed of crystalline aragonite as in blue coral Heliopora. The results of molecular phylogenetic analyses of sequences of mtMutS, COI, and ITS1-5.8s-ITS2-28S region suggest Nanipora gen. n. specimens should be included in order Helioporacea. Based on morphological results compared with other Helioporacea including the genus Epiphaxum (family Lithotelestidae), we establish the new genus Nanipora within Lithotelestidae. This is the first time that a close molecular phylogenetic relationship between Heliopora and a related genus within Helioporacea has been revealed.
["Aragonite skeleton"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Hay-bait traps are a useful tool for sampling of soil dwelling millipedes and centipedes
Some species of centipedes and millipedes inhabit upper soil layers exclusively and are not recorded by pitfall trapping. Because of their sensitivity to soil conditions, they can be sampled quantitatively for evaluation of soil conditions. Soil samples are heavy to transport and their processing is time consuming, and such sampling leads to disturbance of the soil surface which land-owners do not like. We evaluated the use of hay-bait traps to sample soil dwelling millipedes and centipedes. The effectiveness of this method was found to be similar to the effectiveness of soil sampling. Hay-bait traps installed for 8–10 weeks can substitute for direct soil sampling in ecological and inventory studies.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Distribution of millipedes (Myriapoda, Diplopoda) along a forest interior – forest edge – grassland habitat complex
We studied the distribution of millipedes in a forest interior-forest edge-grassland habitat complex in the Hajdúság Landscape Protection Area (NE Hungary). The habitat types were as follows: (1) lowland oak forest, (2) forest edge with increased ground vegetation and shrub cover, and (3) mesophilous grassland. We collected millipedes by litter and soil sifting. There were overall 30 sifted litter and soil samples: 3 habitat types × 2 replicates × 5 soil and litter samples per habitats. We collected 9 millipede species; the most abundant species was Glomeris tetrasticha, which was the most abundant species in the forest edge as well. The most abundant species in the forest interior was Kryphioiulus occultus, while the most abundant species in the grassland was Megaphyllum unilineatum. Our result showed that the number of millipede species was significantly lower in the grassland than in the forest or in the edge, however there were no significant difference in the number of species between the forest interior and the forest edge. We found significantly the highest number of millipede individuals in the forest edge. There were differences in the composition of the millipede assemblages of the three habitats. The results of the DCCA showed that forest edge and forest interior habitats were clearly separated from the grassland habitats. The forest edge habitat was characterized by high air temperature, high soil moisture, high soil pH, high soil enzyme activity, high shrub cover and low canopy cover. The IndVal and the DCCA methods revealed the following character species of the forest edge habitats: Glomeris tetrasticha and Leptoiulus cibdellus. Changes in millipede abundance and composition were highly correlated with the vegetation structure.
["Edge effect"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics"]

Centipede assemblages along an urbanization gradient in the city of Heraklion, Crete (Greece)
Global urbanization is a major force that causes alteration and loss of natural habitats. Urban ecosystems are strongly affected by humans and there is a gradient of decreasing human influence from city centers to natural habitats. To study ecological changes along this continuum, researchers introduced the urban-rural gradient approach. The responses of centipedes to an urbanization gradient (urban-suburban-rural areas) were studied using pitfall traps in and near the city of Heraklion, in the island of Crete, Greece, from November 2010 to November 2011. Our results do not support the intermediate disturbance hypothesis, in which suburban areas located in the transitional zone between urban and rural habitats failed to indicate significant increase in terms of species richness and diversity.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Distribution of millipedes along an altitudinal gradient in the south of Lake Teletskoye, Altai Mts, Russia (Diplopoda)
The distribution of millipedes along an altitudinal gradient in the south of Lake Teletskoye, Altai, Russia based on new samples from the Kyga Profile sites, as well as on partly published and freshly revised material (Mikhaljova et al. 2007, 2008, 2014, Nefedieva and Nefediev 2008, Nefediev and Nefedieva 2013, Nefedieva et al. 2014), is established. The millipede diversity is estimated to be at least 15 species and subspecies from 10 genera, 6 families and three orders. The bulk of species diversity is confined both to low- and mid-mountain chern taiga forests and high-mountain shrub tundras, whereas the highest numbers, reaching up to 130 ind./m², is shown in subalpine Pinus sibirica sparse growths. Based on clustering studied localities on species diversity similarity two groups of sites are defined: low-mountain sites and subalpine sparse growths of P. sibirica ones.
["Millipedes"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Centipede (Chilopoda) richness and diversity in the Bug River valley (Eastern Poland)
The main aim of the survey was to describe the diversity and richness of Chilopoda in the selected area of the Bug River valley. The study sites were located in two regions differing in the shape of the valley, the presence of thermophilous habitats and the size of riparian forests. Pitfall traps were used as a sampling method. As a result, 444 specimens belonging to 12 centipede species of two orders – Geophilomorpha (four species) and Lithobiomorpha (eight species) were caught. Lithobius (Monotarsobius) curtipes C.L.Koch, 1847, Pachymerium ferrugineum (C.L.Koch, 1835), Lamyctes (Lamyctes) emarginatus (Newport, 1844) and Lithobius (Monotarsobius) dudichi Loksa, 1947 were the most common and the most numerous species. Of particular note is L. dudichi found in Poland for the first time and previously known based on a single specimen. Two to 10 Chilopoda species were found in each habitat under investigation. The greatest species richness was found in thermophilous thickets (10 species), sandy grasslands (eight), xerothermic grasslands (eight) and mesic meadows (six). The fewest number of species (two) was found in rushes at oxbows and in wet meadows. We found differences in the species composition and the number of Chilopoda between the lower (102 specimens, six species) and the middle (324 specimens, 11 species) section of the river valley. Our results confirm the need to protect xerothermic habitats, unique almost throughout entire Central Europe, which due to their distribution and their small area covered are fairly easily subject to the process of destruction.
["Big river valley"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Millipedes faced with drought: the life cycle of a Mediterranean population of Ommatoiulus sabulosus (Linnaeus) (Diplopoda, Julida, Julidae)
Growth, development and life-cycle duration of the millipede Ommatoiulus sabulosus (f. aimatopodus) were studied in a Mediterranean shrubland of southern France and compared with previous data from northwest Europe. Changes in the proportions of stadia during the course of the year were analysed in several generations. The results show that stadia VII and VIII are consistently reached after the first year of growth, and stadia IX and X after the second year. First reproduction may occur at the age of two years in males reaching maturity at stadium X, but not until the age of three in those reaching maturity at stadia XI and XII. Reproduction cannot occur until at least the age of three in females, which carry mature eggs from stadium XI onwards. In comparison with more northern populations, life-cycle duration is not shorter in the Mediterranean population but there are marked differences in its phenology: the breeding period is in autumn, so that juveniles of stadia II to VI are never faced with the summer drought, and larger individuals are mostly inactive in summer; moreover, all individuals moult once every winter. The results illustrate how julid millipedes of humid temperate regions could respond to higher temperatures and drier summer conditions in the context of climate change.
["Millipedes"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

At the end of the rope: Geophilus hadesi sp. n. – the world’s deepest cave-dwelling centipede (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha, Geophilidae)
A new geophilomorph centipede, Geophilus hadesi sp. n., is described from caves in the Velebit Mountain, central Croatia. Together with Geophilus persephones Foddai & Minelli, 1999, described from Pierre Saint-Martin cave in France, they are the only two remarkably troglomorphic geophilomorphs hitherto known. The new species apparently belongs to a group of Geophilus species inhabiting mainly Western and Southern Europe, with a uniquely modified pretarsus in the second maxillae. G. hadesi sp. n. shows unusual traits, some of which commonly found in troglobitic arthropods, including exceptionally elongated antennae, trunk segments and leg claws. The species is described upon specimens found in two caves at a depth below -250 m. Another two specimens apparently belonging to the same species have been recorded in another deep vertical cave at -980 m and -1100 m. The latter represents the world’s deepest record of Chilopoda as a whole.
["Geophilus"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Species limits and phylogeography of Newportia (Scolopendromorpha) and implications for widespread morphospecies
The genus Newportia Gervais, 1847, includes some 60 nominal species distributed in the Caribbean islands and from Mexico to central South America. Modern keys to species and subspecies are available, greatly facilitating identification, but some species are based on few specimens and have incomplete documentation of taxonomically-informative characters. In order to explore genetic variability and evolutionary relationships within geographically-widespread morphospecies, specimens of N. (N.) stolli (Pocock, 1896) and N. (N.) divergens Chamberlin, 1922, two nominal species distinguished principally by differences in suture patterns on T1, were sequenced for mitochondrial 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) genes from populations in southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and Brazil. N. (N.) stolli is paraphyletic with respect to N. (N.) divergens within a clade from Guatemala, Honduras, and Chiapas (Mexico), most trees being consistent with a single loss of a connection between the anterior transverse suture on T1, whereas specimens of “N. (N.) stolli” from Brazil are not closely allied to those from the Mesomerican type area. The widespread morphospecies N. (N.) monticola Pocock, 1890, was sequenced for the same loci from populations in Costa Rica, Colombia and Brazil, finding that specimens from these areas do not unite as a monophyletic group. Samples of N. (N.) oreina Chamberlin, 1915, from different regions of Mexico form geographic clusters that resolve as each other’s closest relatives. These results suggest that some widespread species of Newportia may be taxa of convenience more so than natural groupings. In several cases geographic proximity fits the phylogeny better than taxonomy, suggesting that non-monophyletic species do not result from use of inappropriate molecular markers. Molecular identification is possible for specimens missing taxonomically informative morphological characters, notably damaged specimens that lack the ultimate leg pair, a protocol that may also apply to other taxonomically difficult genera that are prone to damage (such as Cryptops).
["Scolopocryptopidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Steps towards a phylogeny of the pill millipedes: non-monophyly of the family Protoglomeridae, with an integrative redescription of Eupeyerimhoffia archimedis (Diplopoda, Glomerida)
Eupeyerimhoffia archimedis (Strasser, 1965) is redescribed based on several specimens collected at a number of sites close to the type locality on Sicily, Italy. Scanning electron microscopy is used to illustrate several unusual morphological characters for a member of the Glomerida for the first time. A fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene (668bp) is sequenced for the first time in Eupeyerimhoffia to provide a species-specific barcode and to gain first insights into the genetic distances between the genera in the widespread family Protoglomeridae. The novel sequences are compared to representatives of all other genera of the family: Protoglomeris vasconica (Brölemann, 1897) from northern Spain, the dwarfed Glomerellina laurae Silvestri, 1908 from Italy and Glomeroides primus (Silvestri, 1929) from western North America. The addition of COI sequences from the two other families of the Glomerida renders the family Protoglomeridae paraphyletic with Glomeroides primus being more closely related to Glomeridella minima (Latzel, 1884) than to the other genera in the family. The large genetic distances (13.2–16.8%) between Eupeyerimhoffia and the other genera in the order, as well as its unusual morphological characters, including unique morphological adaptations to roll into a ball, are probably an indication of the old age of the group.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Type specimens of centipedes (Myriapoda, Chilopoda) in the National Museum, Prague (Czech Republic)
The centipede collection in the National Museum in Prague contains type material of 16 taxa (14 species and two subspecies), of which 15 were described by Luděk J. Dobroruka and one by Karl W. Verhoeff: Allothereua wilsonae Dobroruka, 1979; Chinobius alenae Dobroruka, 1980; Lithobius corrigendus Dobroruka, 1988; L. creticus Dobroruka, 1977; L. erythrocephalus mohelensis Dobroruka, 1959; L. evae Dobroruka, 1958; L. magurensis Dobroruka, 1971; L. purkynei Dobroruka, 1957; L. tatricus Dobroruka, 1958; L. tatricus monounguis Dobroruka, 1958; Monotarsobius homolaci Dobroruka, 1971; M. krali Dobroruka, 1979; Pachymerium dilottiae Dobroruka, 1976; P. hanzaki Dobroruka, 1976; Scolopendra aztecorum Verhoeff, 1934 and Strigamia olympica Dobroruka, 1977. Of these 16 taxa, five were described from the Czech Republic, three from Slovakia and eight from other countries (Greece, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Mexico, Nepal, Russia and Uzbekistan). The eight taxa described from the Czech and Slovak Republics are now considered as junior synonyms but the eight taxa described from the other countries are still valid.
["Zoological collection"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies"]

Description of the male of Leptotyphlus kovaci Šustek, 2000, the only Central European species of the Mediterranean genus Leptotyphlus Fauvel, 1874 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Leptotyphlinae)
The previously unknown male of Leptotyphlus kovaci Šustek, 2000 is described and illustrated. The relationship of the species is discussed. The species is also reported from Gemerskoteplická jaskyňa near Jelšavská Teplica (Slovakia).
["Leptotyphlus kovaci"]

Records of Coendou ichillus (Rodentia, Erethizontidae) from the Lower Urubamba Region of Peru
Coendou ichillus was first described in 2001 by Voss and da Silva, with a range from Amazonian Ecuador to Iquitos, Peru. Here, we describe an adult female Coendou ichillus specimen collected in a Tomahawk trap in the forest canopy of the Lower Urubamba Region of Peru in October 2013. We also describe pathologies and behaviors observed through 379 camera trapping photo events (2,196 photos) gathered in natural canopy bridges over the course of a year (7,198 trap nights), including information on activity period over the course of the day and over the course of the lunar cycle. We conservatively estimate that 17 individuals were photographed, including one juvenile. Being 900 km away from Iquitos, Peru (the site of the closest record), discovery of this species in the Lower Urubamba constitutes a significant range extension.
["Neotropical porcupines"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

A taxonomic review of the Gyrinidae (Coleoptera) in Korea
A taxonomic review of Korean Gyrinidae is presented. Seven species [Dineutus orientalis (Modeer, 1776), Gyrinus gestroi Régimbart, 1883, G. japonicus Sharp, 1873, G. pullatus Zaitzev, 1908, Orectochilus punctipennis Sharp, 1884, O. Regimbarti Sharp, 1884 and O. villosus (Müller, 1776)] in three genera are recognized, one of which (O. punctipennis Sharp, 1884) is reported for the first time in Korea. We also found that G. curtus Motschulsky, 1866 previously recorded in Korea was an incorrect identification of G. pullatus Zaitzev, 1908. Habitus and SEM photographs, distribution maps, keys, and diagnoses of genera and species are provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Redescription of two subterranean amphipods Niphargus molnari Méhely, 1927 and Niphargus gebhardti Schellenberg, 1934 (Amphipoda, Niphargidae) and their phylogenetic position
A detailed redescription of two endemic, cave-dwelling niphargid species of the Hungarian Mecsek Mts., Niphargus molnari Méhely, 1927 and Niphargus gebhardti Schellenberg, 1934 is given based on newly collected material. Morphology was studied under light microscopy and with scanning electon microscopy. Morphological descriptions are complemented with mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences as barcodes for both species and with notes on their ecology. Using three independent molecular markers we showed that N. gebhardti belongs to the clade distributed between Central and Eastern Europe, whereas phylogenetic relationship of N. molnari to the rest of Niphargus species is not clear. The two species from the Mecsek Mts. are phylogenetically not closely related. Both species need to be treated as vulnerable according to IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
["Hungary"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Systematics of the Madagascar Anelosimus spiders: remarkable local richness and endemism, and dual colonization from the Americas
Despite the alarming rates of deforestation and forest fragmentation, Madagascar still harbors extraordinary biodiversity. However, in many arthropod groups, such as spiders, this biodiversity remains mostly unexplored and undescribed. The first subsocial Madagascan species of the theridiid spider genus Anelosimus were described in 2005 when six new species were found to coexist in the Périnet forest fragment within Andasibe-Mantadia NP. However, this discovery was based only on a few specimens and the extent of this Madagascan radiation has remained unknown. We here report on a thorough survey of >350 colonies from Périnet, and three pilot surveys into additional Madagascar forests (Ambohitantely, Ranamofana, and Montagne d’Ambre). The morphological, molecular and natural history data from these surveys facilitated a revised taxonomy and phylogenetic hypothesis of Madagascan Anelosimus. This subsocial clade currently comprises six previously known (A. andasibe Agnarsson & Kuntner, 2005, A. may Agnarsson, 2005, A. nazariani Agnarsson & Kuntner, 2005, A. sallee Agnarsson & Kuntner, 2005, A. salut Agnarsson & Kuntner, 2005, A. vondrona Agnarsson & Kuntner, 2005) and 10 new species: A. ata sp. n., A. buffoni sp. n., A. darwini sp. n., A. hookeri sp. n., A. huxleyi sp. n., A. lamarcki sp. n., A. moramora sp. n., A. tita sp. n., A. torfi sp. n., A. wallacei sp. n.. With the exception of A. may and A. vondrona, all other species appear to be single forest endemics. While additional sampling is necessary, these data imply a much higher local richness and endemism in Madagascan forests than in any other comparable area globally. The phylogenetic results establish a sister clade relationship between the subsocial Anelosimus in Madagascar and the American ‘eximius group’, and between the solitary A. decaryi on Madagascar and a solitary American clade. These findings imply duplicate colonizations from America, an otherwise rare biogeographical pattern, calling for more detailed investigation of Anelosimus biogeography.
["Cobweb spiders"]

Description of a novel mating plug mechanism in spiders and the description of the new species Maeota setastrobilaris (Araneae, Salticidae)
Reproduction in arthropods is an interesting area of research where intrasexual and intersexual mechanisms have evolved structures with several functions. The mating plugs usually produced by males are good examples of these structures where the main function is to obstruct the female genitalia against new sperm depositions. In spiders several types of mating plugs have been documented, the most common ones include solidified secretions, parts of the bulb or in some extraordinary cases the mutilation of the entire palpal bulb. Here, we describe the first case of modified setae, which are located on the cymbial dorsal base, used directly as a mating plug for the Order Araneae in the species Maeota setastrobilaris sp. n. In addition the taxonomic description of M. setastrobilaris sp. n. is provided and based on our findings the geographic distribution of this genus is extended to the Northern hemisphere.
["Reproduction"]

A review of Norwegian Gymnometriocnemus (Diptera, Chironomidae) including the description of two new species and a new name for Gymnometriocnemus volitans (Goetghebuer) sensu Brundin
Examination of the syntypes of Metriocnemus volitans Goetghebuer, 1940 revealed that these specimens belong to the genus Chaetocladius and are not con-specific with Gymnometriocnemus volitans (Goetghebuer, 1940) sensu Brundin (1956) and Sæther (1983). A literature search showed that Gymnometriocnemus kamimegavirgus Sasa & Hirabayashi, 1993 fits well with the species figured and diagnosed by Brundin (1956) as well as with specimens of this species from Norway. We present arguments for Chaetocladius volitans (Goetghebuer) comb. n. and for the use of G. kamimegavirgus for G. volitans sensu Brundin. In addition, we provide DNA barcode data that indicate the presence of at least seven Gymnometriocnemus species in Norway of which six are collected as male adults. Two of these, Gymnometriocnemus (Gymnometriocnemus) pallidus sp. n. and Gymnometriocnemus (Raphidocladius) autumnalis sp. n. are regarded as new to science and diagnosed based on adult male morphology and DNA barcodes. The species Gymnometriocnemus (Gymnometriocnemus) marionensis Sæther, 1969 is re-established and a key to all Holarctic species is provided.
["Chironomidae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Four new species and additional records of Domene and Lathrobium from the Dayao Mountains, southern China
Material of the paederine genera Domene Fauvel, 1873 and Lathrobium Gravenhorst, 1802 from the Dayao Mountains, southern China, is examined. Eight species are identified, three of them described previously and five undescribed. Four species are described and illustrated for the first time: Domene hei Peng & Li, sp. n., Lathrobium jinxiuense Peng & Li, sp. n., L. kuan Peng & Li, sp. n. and L. leii Peng & Li, sp. n. One probably undescribed species of Lathrobium remains unnamed.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Study of Mite Species"]

Three new species of eriophyoid mites (Acari, Eriophyoidea) from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
Three new species of eriophyoid mites from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, are described and illustrated. They are Paracolomerus gonglius sp. n. and Phyllocoptruta beggerianae sp. n. collected on Rosa beggeriana Schrenk ex Fisch. & C. A. Mey. (Rosaceae), and Rhyncaphytoptus fuyuniensis sp. n. collected on Cotoneaster ignavus E. L. Wolf (Rosaceae). All eriophyoid mites described here are vagrants on the undersurface of leaves and any apparent damage was not observed.

A new Chinese species of Eostrobilops Pilsbry, 1927 with a checklist of Eostrobilops and Enteroplax Gude, 1897 species (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Strobilopsidae)
Eostrobilops humicolus Páll-Gergely & Hunyadi, sp. n. is described from Guangxi Province, China. It is characterized by the combination of a small shell (diameter: 2.3–2.4 mm), strongly ribbed dorsal surface, an infraparietal lamella not reaching the callus, and long basal folds. The new species is found approximately 500 and 800 km from the two nearest species E. infrequens (northern Vietnam), and E. diodontina (Hunan, China), respectively. A checklist of extant Eostrobilops Pilsbry, 1927 and Enteroplax Gude, 1899 species is provided. Enteroplax yaeyamensis Habe & Chinen, 1974, Enteroplax kanjiokuboi Minato & Tada, 1992 and Enteroplax taiwanica Minato & Tada, 1992 are moved to the genus Eostrobilops because of the lack of an elevated parietal callus and a peripheral thread. A map showing all Eostrobilops records is provided.
["Revision"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Geochemistry and Elemental Analysis"]

The genus Scapheremaeus (Acari, Oribatida, Cymbaeremaeidae) in the oribatid mite fauna of New Zealand, with description of two new species
Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Scapheremaeus (Oribatida, Cymbaeremaeidae), S. gibbus sp. n. and S. luxtoni sp. n., are described from New Zealand. Scapheremaeus gibbus sp. n. is morphologically most similar to S. humeratus Balogh & Mahunka, 1967, but differs from the latter by the number of notogastral, genital and adanal setae, morphology of bothridial setae, position of adanal lyrifissures and absence of humeral processes. Scapheremaeus luxtoni sp. n. is morphologically most similar to S. yamashitai Aoki, 1970, but differs from the latter by the morphology of notogastral and rostral setae, morphology of leg solenidia φ2 and development of humeral processes. The species Scapheremaeus zephyrus Colloff, 2010 is recorded for the first time in New Zealand. An identification key to the known New Zealand species of Scapheremaeus is provided.

Four new species of Epicephala Meyrick, 1880 (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) associated with two species of Glochidion (Phyllanthaceae) from Hainan Island in China
Four new Epicephala species that feed on the seeds of Glochidion sphaerogynum (Phyllanthaceae) from Yinggeling Mountain Nature Reserves in Hainan Province of China are described: E. domina sp. n., E. impolliniferens sp. n., E. angustisaccula sp. n. and E. camurella sp. n. The latter two species are also associated with Glochidion wrightii. Photographs of adults and genital structures are provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

The Mycetophila ruficollis Meigen (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) group in Europe: elucidating species delimitation with COI and ITS2 sequence data
European species of the Mycetophila ruficollis group are compared on the basis of morphology and sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit one (COI) and the ITS2 region of nuclear ribosomal DNA. The study represents the first evaluation of morphology-based species delimitation of closely related fungus gnat species by applying molecular information. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the male terminalia are presented along with a key for the identification of all nine European species of the group. Phylogenetic analyses of molecular data generally supported the morphological species discrimination. The barcoding region of COI superseded ITS2 rDNA in resolving species. In the COI barcoding region interspecific differences ranged from 2.9 to 10.6% and the intraspecific distance from 0.08 to 0.8%. Only COI data distinguished between the similar and closely related M. ichneumonea and M. uninotata of which the latter was observed to include cryptic species. The host range of some species is suggested to be narrower than previously considered and to depend on the forest type. Presented evidence indicates the importance of analysing sequence data of morphologically very similar mycetophages reared from identified host fungi for elucidating species delimitation as well as their geographic and host ranges. New country records, viz. Estonia for M. evanida, Georgia for M. ichneumonea, M. idonea and M. ruficollis, and Norway for M. strobli, widen the known distribution ranges of these species.
["Fungus gnats"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Malalcahuello ocaresi gen. & sp. n. (Elateridae, Campyloxeninae)
Malalcahuello ocaresi gen. n. & sp. n., from Chile, is described and compared with Campyloxenus pyrothorax Fairmaire & Germain, 1860.

Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in the Malagasy region
In this study we revise the taxonomy of the genus Prionopelta for the Malagasy region, treating seven species, six of which are newly described (P. laurae sp. n., P. seychelles sp. n., P. subtilis sp. n., P. talos sp. n., P. vampira sp. n., P. xerosilva sp. n.), and one redescribed (P. descarpentriesi Santschi). One species, P. seychelles, is restricted to Seychelles, while the six remaining species treated are endemic to Madagascar.

Four new species of Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) from Paraguay
Four new species of Cerambycidae are described from Paraguay: Eranina tomentilla (Hemilophini); Mimasyngenes concolor (Desmiphorini); Recchia drechseli (Aerenicini); and Microibidion bimaculatum (Neoibidionini). The new species are included in known keys.
["Cerambycinae"]

Discovery of the genus Formosiepyris Terayama, (Hymenoptera, Bethylidae) in Vietnam, with a description of a new species
Formosiepyris vietnamensis sp. n. (Hymenoptera: Bethylidae) is described based on material collected from Da Lat, southern Vietnam. This is the first record of Formosiepyris Terayama from Vietnam. The new species can be distinguished from other Formosiepyris species by a narrow and rounded clypeus; a mandible with three teeth; a second metasomal tergite having small, sparsely distributed punctures and smooth interspaces, except for anterior 2/5, which is microreticulate; and a head length : width aspect ratio of 10 : 11. A key to the Oriental species of Formosiepyris is provided.
["Epyrinae"]

Further studies on water mites from Korea, with description of two new species (Acari, Hydrachnidia)
New records of water mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from streams in South Korea are presented. Two species are described as new to science: Torrenticola neodentifera sp. n. (Torrenticolidae) and Atractides ermilovi sp. n. (Hygrobatidae). Five species are reported as first records for Korea: Wandesia (Wandesia) reducta Tuzovskij, 1987, W. (Wandesia) cf. rara Tuzovskij, 1990, Sperchon (Sperchon) orientalis Tuzovskij, 1990, Feltria (Feltria) kuluensis Tuzovskij, 1988 and Atractides (Atractides) constrictus (Sokolow, 1934). The latter species is redescribed and elevated to species rank based on new material from the Russian Far East.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

A distinctive new subspecies of Scytalopus griseicollis (Aves, Passeriformes, Rhinocryptidae) from the northern Eastern Cordillera of Colombia and Venezuela
We describe a new subspecies of Pale-bellied Tapaculo Scytalopus griseicollis from the northern Eastern Cordillera of Colombia and Venezuela. This form differs diagnosably in plumage from described subspecies S. g. griseicollis and S. g. gilesi and from the latter in tail length. It is also differentiated non-diagnosably in voice from both these populations. Ecological niche modelling analysis suggests that the new subspecies is restricted to the Andean montane forest and páramo north of both the arid Chicamocha valley and the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Notes on Metaphire multitheca (Chen, 1938) (Oligochaeta, Megascolecidae) recorded from Vietnam, with descriptions of two new species
The paper deals with Pheretima multitheca multitheca Chen, 1938 recorded from Vietnam (non Pheretima multitheca Chen, 1938 now in Metaphire from Hainan Island). As a result, a new species, Amynthas erroneous sp. n., is revealed from materials which were previously misidentified as Pheretima multitheca multitheca. The new species is obviously distinguished from other Amynthas species by multiple spermathecal pores lateroventral in intersegments 5/6/7/8/9, and presence of two pairs of crescentic genital markings in xviii. In addition, another new species, Amynthas nhonmontis sp. n., is described and easily recognized by multiple spermathecal pores ventral in intersegments 5/6/7/8 and three pairs of genital markings in xvii, xix and xx.

Revision of the Oriental genus Horniella Raffray (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) – Supplementum 1
Two new species of the genus Horniella Raffray are described from China: H. aculeata sp. n. (Yunnan Province) and H. jinggangshana sp. n. (Jiangxi Province). Horniella nakhi Yin & Li is recorded from a new locality. Three potentially new species from Myanmar and China, each represented by female specimen(s) only, are left unnamed. Their collecting data are given, and the genital complex figured for future comparison.
["Pselaphinae"]

Collembolan species diversity of calcareous canyons in the Republic of Moldova
The study of collembolan communities from the Vîşcăuți canyon in Moldova revealed 63 species belonging to 41 genera and 12 families, including four species new for the fauna of the Republic of Moldova. A checklist of collembolan species identified in the five calcareous canyons sampled so far in Moldova is included, with data on habitats, life form, occurrence and comments of distribution of most remarkable species. Of the 98 recognized species of these calcareous canyons, only 38 were shared by Vîşcăuți and the other canyons. The richness of calcareous habitats together with the high heterogeneity in faunal composition suggests that further significant increase in the species richness of the region may be expected.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Redescription of the Far Eastern brook lamprey Lethenteron reissneri (Dybowski, 1869) (Petromyzontidae)
Nonparasitic Lethenteron reissneri (Dybowski) is redescribed based on four syntypes (two adults and two ammocoetes) from the Onon and Ingoda rivers, Russia, and 15 topotypic specimens (seven metamorphosing ammocoetes and eight ammocoetes) from the Onon River system, Russia and Mongolia. Posterial teeth were not mentioned in the original description, but Berg (1931) stated that they were sometimes absent, which he later (Berg 1948) changed to usually absent, based on material (some of which we have re-identified as parasitic L. camtschaticum) from far outside of the type locality. The latter view has been widely accepted by subsequent authors. Unfortunately, the poor condition of the two adult syntypes did not permit verification of this character. However, a row of posterials was clearly visible in six of the seven topotypic metamorphosing ammocoetes and indicates their usual presence in the species. The first full description of the ammocoetes, including pigmentation, is provided. The present study restricts the distribution of L. reissneri to the Shilka and Songhua river systems within the Amur River basin, until a more geographically comprehensive study is undertaken. Additionally, in this study, feeding versus non-feeding at the adult stage, are considered to be valid taxonomic characters at the species level.
["Amur River basin"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Review of the genus Canalirogas van Achterberg & Chen (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Rogadinae) from Vietnam, with description of ten new species
The Vietnamese species of the genus Canalirogas van Achterberg & Chen, 1996 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Rogadinae) are revised. Ten species are new to science, viz., Canalirogas affinis sp. n., C. cucphuongensis sp. n., C. curvinervis sp. n., C. eurycerus sp. n., C. hoabinhicus sp. n., C. intermedius sp. n., C. parallelus sp. n., C. robberti sp. n., C. vittatus sp. n. and C. vuquangensis sp. n. One species is new for the Vietnamese fauna: Canalirogas spilonotus (Cameron, 1905) and C. balgooyi van Achterberg & Chen, 1996, is synonymized with it (syn. n.); a lectotype is designated for Troporhogas spilonotus. A key to the Vietnamese species of the genus is also provided.

The oribatid mite genus Macrogena (Acari, Oribatida, Ceratozetidae), with description of two new species from New Zealand
Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Macrogena (Oribatida, Ceratozetidae) are described from alpine soils of the South Island of New Zealand. Macrogena brevisensilla sp. n. and M. abbreviata sp. n. differ from all species of this genus by the tridactylous legs and by the comparatively short interlamellar setae, respectively. New generic diagnosis and an identification key to the known species of Macrogena are provided.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The taxonomic status of Dugesia biblica from Israel and Turkey (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae)
The taxonomic status of Dugesia biblica (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae) from Israel and Turkey is problematic due to its morphological similarity with D. sicula since these nominal species present overlapping characters. In this study we analyzed histological preparations of specimens of these two nominal species and also compared mitochondrial COI gene sequences from Israeli populations to the already known haplotype composition of D. sicula. We concluded that these animals belong to the same species and therefore we consider D. biblica to be a junior synonym of D. sicula. This implies that the distribution range of D. sicula is even wider than previously thought, and that the species is present all around the Mediterranean Basin and on many of its islands.
["Platyhelminthes"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new species and additional records of Rugilus Leach from Qinling, China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
A new species of Rugilus Leach, R. (Rugilus) huanghaoisp. n. from Qinling, Shaanxi Province, China, is described and illustrated. Additional records of seven species from Qinling are reported.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies"]

Availability of eleven species names of Eupelmus (Hymenoptera, Eupelmidae) proposed in Al khatib et al. (2014)
This paper is an addendum for the availability of the names of 11 new species proposed in Al khatib et al. (2014).
["Eupelmus"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

Review of the West Indian genus Monotalla Bechyné (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini) with description of five new species
The West Indian genus Monotalla Bechyné is reviewed, redescribed and illustrated. Five new species are added: Monotalla dominica sp. n. (Dominica); M. lecticofolia sp. n. (St. Lucia); M. maierae sp. n. (St. Lucia); M. obrienorum sp. n. (Grenada); and M. viridis sp. n. (St. Lucia). A key to Monotalla species is provided.

New species of Triplocania Roesler (Psocodea, ‘Psocoptera’, Ptiloneuridae), from Brazil and Ecuador
Four species of Triplocania, three with M3 simple, based on male specimens and one with forewing M3 forked, based on male and female specimens, are here described and illustrated, namely: Triplocania bravoi sp. n. (Napo: Ecuador), Triplocania erwini sp. n. (Napo: Ecuador), Triplocania trifida sp. n. (Mato Grosso and Rondônia: Brazil) and Triplocania lamasoides sp. n. (Rondônia: Brazil). They differ from all the other species in the genus, in which the males are known, by the hypandrium and phallosome structures. The female is first described for the M3 forked group. The identification key for males of the M3 forked group is updated.
["Epipsocetae"]

Redescription of Chrysoctonus and description of Chrysoctonoides (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae), a new genus from the Australian Region
Chrysoctonoides longisetosa Huber & Triapitsyn (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), gen. n. and sp. n., is described from Australia. It is compared with the related genus Chrysoctonus, known from Africa and the New World. Myrmecomymar Yoshimoto, syn. n., is synonymized under Chrysoctonus Mathot and its type species is transferred to Chrysoctonus as C. masneri (Yoshimoto), comb. n.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

Redescription of Crematogaster cypria Santschi, 1930, new status, with description of two new related species from Greece and Turkey (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Crematogaster (Crematogaster) jehovae var. cypria Santschi, 1930 is raised to species rank. Two new, related species are described from the north-eastern part of the Mediterranean Basin: Crematogaster (Crematogaster) erectepilosa sp. n. (Dodecanese, Greece) and Crematogaster (Crematogaster) gullukdagensis sp. n. (Antalya Prov., Turkey). These three species are well distinguished from other species of the subgenus Crematogaster of the north-eastern part of the Mediterranean Basin in their first gastral tergite bearing numerous erect setae. Colour photographs of all taxa are provided, a key to the species of Crematogaster cypria group and species groups of the Crematogaster s. str. from the north-eastern Mediterranean region are given and a list of Crematogaster s. str. described from this region is provided (see Appendix).
["Mediterranean Subregion"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

New synonyms of two Arabian ants of the genus Monomorium Mayr, 1855 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Synonymy of two Arabian Monomorium Mayr, 1855 species is proposed: M. exiguum Forel, 1894 = M. desertorum Collingwood & Agosti, 1996, syn. n.; M. subopacum Smith, 1858 = M. mintiribe Collingwood & Agosti, 1996, syn. n. A lectotype for M. venustum Smith, 1858 is designated. Information on nesting habits of M. exiguum and M. venustum in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are provided for the first time. Recently collected records for M. exiguum, M. subopacum, and M. venustum from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates are listed.

Corophiine amphipods of the genera Chelicorophium and Paracorophium from the lower Gulf of Thailand (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Corophiidae, Corophiinae)
Two species of corophiine amphipods from Songkhla Lake, in the lower Gulf of Thailand, are described and illustrated. Chelicorophium madrasensis (Nayar, 1950), found in the mangrove forest, has not previously been observed in Thai waters. Paracorophium angsupanichae sp. n. is characterized by its chelate male gnathopod 2, obtuse palm with subrectangular distomedial elevation, and urosomites 1-3 free. This is the first record of the genus Chelicorophium and Paracorophium in Thai waters. All specimens are deposited in the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand and the Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A new species of the genus Anteon Jurine (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae) from Thailand
A new species of Anteon Jurine, 1807 is described from Thailand, Nan Province: A. huettingeri sp. n. Morphologically the new species is similar to A. borneanum Olmi, 1984, A. jurineanum Latreille, 1809, A. insertum Olmi, 1991, A. yasumatsui Olmi, 1984, A. sarawaki Olmi, 1984, A. thai Olmi, 1984 and A. krombeini Olmi, 1984, but it is clearly different for the numerous sensorial processes present on the inner side of the paramere; these processes are absent in the other above species. Published identification keys to the Oriental species of Anteon are modified to include the new species.

The male of Megacormus granosus (Gervais, 1844) with comments on its hemispermatophore (Scorpiones, Euscorpiidae)
The male of Megacormus granosus is described for the first time and the female redescribed. A homology scheme proposed recently is applied to hemispermatophore structures. The specimens were collected in an oak forest from Pico de Orizaba Volcano at an average altitude of 2340 m. All adult males were collected by pitfall traps, whereas all adult females and both sex immatures were collected using Berlese funnels, suggesting that males are comparatively more mobile within the leaf litter layer, probably due to mating season.
["Euscorpiidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

Redescription of Brochopeltis mjoebergi Verhoeff, 1924 and description of a second Brochopeltis species from Australia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Brochopeltis mjoebergi Verhoeff, 1924 is redescribed from type and new material, a lectotype is designated and B. mjoebergi queenslandica Verhoeff, 1924 is synonymised with B. mjoebergi. B. mediolocus sp. n. is the first native paradoxosomatid described from Australia’s Northern Territory.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Status of Exosphaeroma amplicauda (Stimpson, 1857), E. aphrodita (Boone, 1923) and description of three new species (Crustacea, Isopoda, Sphaeromatidae) from the north-eastern Pacific
Exosphaeroma amplicauda (Stimpson, 1857) from the west coast of North America is reviewed and redescribed and revealed to be a group of closely related species. A neotype is designated and the species redescribed based on the neotype and topotypic specimens. Exosphaeroma amplicauda is known only from the coast of California, at Marin, Sonoma and San Mateo Counties. E. aphrodita (Boone, 1923), type locality La Jolla, California and previously considered nomen dubium is taken out of synonymy and re-validated. A further three species: E. paydenae sp. n., E. russellhansoni sp. n., and E. pentcheffi sp. n. are described herein. Sphaeroma octonctum Richardson, 1899 is placed into junior synonymy with Exosphaeroma amplicauda. A key to the Pacific West Coast Exosphaeroma is provided.

Taxonomic status and redescription of Magneuptychia nebulosa (Butler, 1867) (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae) with a lectotype designation
A redescription of Magneuptychia nebulosa (Butler, 1867), a poorly known euptychiine butterfly, is given here, and accurate distributional data are provided for the first time. Taxonomic status of this taxon has been discussed by comparing its morphology against its possible congeners. In addition, lectotype designation for M. nebulosa is provided in order to objectively establish the identity of this taxon and consequently stabilize the nomenclature.
["Euptychiina"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Alpha taxonomy of the genus Kessleria Nowicki, 1864, revisited in light of DNA-barcoding (Lepidoptera, Yponomeutidae)
The taxonomy of Kessleria, a highly specialized montane genus of Yponomeutidae with larval host restriction to Saxifragaceae and Celastraceae (Saxifraga spp. – subgenus Kessleria; Saxifraga spp. and Parnassia spp. – subgenus Hofmannia), is revised based on external morphology, genitalia and DNA barcodes. An integrative taxonomic approach supports the existence of 29 species in Europe (the two known species from Asia and North America are not treated herein). A full 658 bp fragment of COI was obtained from 135 specimens representing 24 species, a further seven sequences are >560 bp. Five new species are described: Kessleria cottiensis sp. n. (Prov. Torino, Italy; Dep. Hautes Alpes, France), Kessleria dimorpha sp. n. (Dep. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France), Kessleria alpmaritimae sp. n. (Dep. Alpes-Maritimes, France), Kessleria apenninica sp. n. (Prov. Rieti, Prov. L´Aquila, Italy), and Kessleria orobiae sp. n. (Prov. Bergamo, Italy).
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Two new species of Edmockfordia García Aldrete (Psocodea, ‘Psocoptera’, Epipsocidae), from Valle del Cauca, Colombia, and description of the female E. chiquibulensis García Aldrete
Two new species of Edmockfordia García Aldrete, from Valle del Cauca, Colombia, and the female of E. chiquibulensis García Aldrete, are described and illustrated. A key to the species of Edmockfordia is included; the genus was previously known only from Belize. The genus is re-diagnosed to include female characters. The distribution of the genus is considerably widened, from Belize to northeastern South America.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Description of a new species of Potamonautes MacLeay, 1838, from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa
A new species of freshwater crab, Potamonautes isimangaliso sp. n., is described from the western shores of False Bay, Hluhluwe, within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. While bearing a superficial resemblance to P. lividus, the new species has been found to be genetically distinct, diverging from the former by 7.4–7.8% in mtDNA. Potamonautes isimangaliso most closely resembles P. lividus, but is distinguished by a unique suite of carapace characters, colouration, and size. The new species also lives in close association with oxygen-poor, fresh ephemeral pans, while the habitat of P. lividus is well above the surface water line of the closest water body. An updated identification key for the Potamonautes species of South Africa is provided.
["Brachyura"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Meteorona kishinouyei, a new family, genus and species (Cnidaria, Cubozoa, Chirodropida) from Japanese Waters
A new family, genus and species of cubozoan box jellyfish belonging to the order Chirodropida is reported from the eastern Japan. Meteorona kishinouyei gen. et sp. n. possesses the following unique morphological characters with respect to other known species in the Chirodropida: having one tentacle per scalpel-like unbranched pedalium and slightly raised unbranched gastric saccules. A comparative table of the primary diagnostic characters of genus and order in the Chirodropida is given. The order Chirodropida is redefined. The family Chiropsellidae is established. Discussion is provided on the implications for these findings on our current understanding of Cubozoan systematics.
["Box jellyfish"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Classical Antiquity Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Three new species of the genus Ripipteryx from Colombia (Orthoptera, Ripipterygidae)
Three new species of Ripipteryx Newman (Orthoptera: Tridactyloidea: Ripipterygidae) are described from Colombia; namely R. diegoi sp. n. (Forceps Group) and R. guacharoensis sp. n. (Marginipennis Group) from Parque Nacional Natural Cueva de los Guacharos in Huila, and R. gorgonaensis sp. n. (Crassicornis Group) from Parque Nacional Natural Gorgona in Cauca. Ripipteryx diegoi sp. n. is characterized by the antennae black with white spots on flagellomeres 3–7, male subgenital plate with median ridge forming a bilobed setose process, epiproct produced laterally near its base and phallic complex with virga thickened distally and not reaching beyond the membrane. Ripipteryx guacharoensis sp. n. is characterized by the antennae thick with white spots present dorsally on flagellomeres 1–4 and 8, epiproct narrow and triangular, uncus reduced and lacking a distal hook, phallic complex with a concave ventral plate and a dorsal elevation in the middle extended to the virga, and the virga itself with two small projections basally. Ripipteryx gorgonaensis sp. n. is characterized by the epiproct with a lateral notch, antennae with a white dorsal spot on flagellomere 1 and flagellomeres 4–7 entirely white. The antennal color pattern of R. gorgonaensis sp. n. strongly resembles that of R. atra but differs from the latter in the absence of any significant morphological modification of the flagellomeres.
["Caelifera"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

The Tetramorium squaminode species group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in the Arabian Peninsula, with a new record from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and keys to Arabian species
The Arabian species of the Tetramorium squaminode-group are treated. Tetramorium squaminode Santschi, 1911 is recorded for the first time from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula. Keys to the two Arabian species of the T. squaminode-group, T. latinode Collingwood & Agosti, 1996 and T. squaminode, based on worker and queen castes, are given and a regional distribution map is provided. Notes on habitats of T. squaminode are presented.
["Myrmicinae"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

A taxonomic review of Korean species of the Atheta Thomson subgenus Microdota Mulsant & Rey, with descriptions of two new species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
A taxonomic review of the Atheta Thomson subgenus Microdota Mulsant & Rey in Korea is presented. The subgenus is represented in Korea by 15 species including two new species, Atheta (Microdota) jangtaesanensis Lee & Ahn, sp. n. and A. (M.) pasniki Lee & Ahn, sp. n. Four species [A. (M.) kawachiensis Cameron, A. (M.) muris Sawada, A. (M.) spiniventris Bernhauer, and A. (M.) spinula (Sawada)] are new to the Korean Peninsula and two [A. (M.) formicetorum Bernhauer and A. (M.) subcrenulata Bernhauer] to South Korea. Two other species [A. (M.) kobensis Cameron and A. (M.) scrobicollis (Kraatz)] previously recorded in North Korea had been identified incorrectly. A key, descriptions, habitus photographs and illustrations of the diagnostic features are provided. Species distributions and diversity in East Asia are discussed.

Revision of the genus Trypogeus Lacordaire, 1869 (Cerambycidae, Dorcasominae)
The ten species of the genus Trypogeus Lacordaire are revised. T. apicalis Fisher, 1936, is proposed as a new synonym of T. javanicus Aurivillius, 1925. A neotype for T. sericeus (Gressitt, 1951) and lectotypes for Toxotus fuscus Nonfried, 1894 and T. javanicus are designated. Trypogeus fuscus auct. nec Nonfried is a misidentification of Philus ophthalmicus Pascoe. All the species are described and keys are given for distinguishing the species. Photographs of the types of all the Trypogeus species are published for the first time.

Systematics of the Rhinella margaritifera complex (Anura, Bufonidae) from western Ecuador and Panama with insights in the biogeography of Rhinella alata
The Rhinella margaritifera species group consists of 17 species of toads distributed in tropical and subtropical South America and eastern Central America. The identity of some of its species is poorly understood and there are numerous undescribed cryptic species. Among them, the status of Rhinella margaritifera is one of the most problematic. Its range includes lowland rainforests separated by the Andes, the Chocoan rainforest to the west and the Amazonian rainforest to the east. This distribution is puzzling because the Andes are an old and formidable barrier to gene flow and therefore should generate vicariant speciation between disjunct lowland populations. Herein we clarify the taxonomy of populations of the R. margaritifera complex from Central America and the Chocó region of South America. The morphological and genetic variation of R. margaritifera was examined from 39 populations from Chocó, 24 from the upper Amazon region of Ecuador, and 37 from Panama, including the holotype of the Panamanian R. alata. Phylogenetic analyses were performed based on mitochondrial genes 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) and the nuclear gene Tyrosinase (Tyr). The genetic and morphological data show that Panamanian and Chocoan populations are conspecific. In the phylogeny, populations from Chocó and Panama form a well-supported clade. The morphology of the holotype of R. alata falls within the variation range of Panamanian and Chocoan populations. Based on all this evidence, we assign the populations from western Ecuador and Panama to R. alata and demonstrate that the unusual distribution pattern of “R. margaritifera” on both sides of the Andes was an artifact of incorrectly defined species boundaries.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A review of Bornean Micronectidae (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Nepomorpha) with descriptions of two new species from Sabah, Malaysia1
Previous research of Bornean Micronectidae Jaczewski, 1924 (pygmy water boatmen) is summarized based on the data from the literature and recent work. All the Bornean micronectids belong to the genus Micronecta Kirkaldy, 1897. Descriptions or redescriptions and a key to the eight species, which have so far been found in Borneo are presented, namely M. decorata Lundblad, 1933, M. ludibunda Breddin, 1905, M. liewi sp. n., M. lakimi sp. n., M. lumutensis Chen, Nieser & Lansbury, 2008, M. skutalis Nieser & Chen, 1999, M. kymatista Nieser & Chen, 1999) and M. quadristrigata Breddin, 1905. The synonyms are indicated under each species. To facilitate identification, illustrations and habitus photos are provided. The faunistic components of Micronectidae in Borneo are discussed from a zoogeographic point of view.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Molecular data for Crenavolva species (Gastropoda, Ovulidae) reveals the synonymy of C. chiapponii
During fieldwork in Indonesia and Malaysia, eight lots containing 33 specimens belonging to the genus Crenavolva (Ovulidae) were collected. Species were initially identified as C. aureola, C. chiapponii, C. striatula and C. trailli, respectively. For C. chiapponii this is the second record. In contrast to the ecological data available from the original description of this species, it was found in shallow water on a gorgonian host coral, i.e. Acanthogorgia sp. A molecular analysis based on COI and 16S mtDNA markers, including sequence data obtained from GenBank, showed that C. chiapponii should be considered a junior synonym of C. aureola and that previously identified ovulid specimens are probably misidentified.
["Acanthogorgia"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

On the identity of Chamaedrilus glandulosus (Michaelsen, 1888) (Clitellata, Enchytraeidae), with the description of a new species
The taxonomy of Chamaedrilus glandulosus (Michaelsen, 1888) s. l., most commonly known previously as Cognettia glandulosa, is revised. A recent molecular systematic study has shown that this taxon harbours two cryptic, but genetically well separated lineages, each warranting species status. In this study these two lineages are scrutinized morphologically, on the basis of Michaelsen’s type material as well as newly collected specimens from Central and Northern Europe. Chamaedrilus glandulosus s. s. is redescribed and Ch. varisetosus sp. n. is recognized as new to science. The two species are morphologically very similar, differing mainly in size, but seem to prefer different habitats, with Ch. glandulosus being a larger aquatic species, and Ch. varisetosus being smaller and mainly found in moist to wet soil.
["Cognettia"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A taxonomic review of Aramides cajaneus (Aves, Gruiformes, Rallidae) with notes on morphological variation in other species of the genus
The taxonomy of the polytypic and wide-ranging Gray-necked Wood-rail, Aramides cajaneus is reviewed, based on external morphology and voice. Throughout its distribution, there is extensive plumage variation, much of it taxonomically uninformative. However, through three informative plumage characters, as well as morphometric and vocal variation, three phylogenetic species were identified within what is today known as A. cajaneus, all of which already had available names: A. albiventris Lawrence, 1868, from southern Mexico to northeastern Costa Rica, A. cajaneus (Statius Müller, 1776) (sensu stricto), from southwestern Costa Rica to Argentina, and A. avicenniae Stotz, 1992, from a small section of the coast of southeastern Brazil. A. albiventris presents extensive plumage variation, but with no geographic structure. The song of A. cajaneus and A. avicenniae is strikingly and completely different from the song of A. albiventris. A previously unnoticed parapatric pattern of distribution of A. cajaneus and its congener A. saracura in southeastern Brazil is described, and we clarify that the name A. plumbeicollis, included in the synonymy of A. albiventris, was first made available in 1892, rather than in 1888 as is widely referred. In addition, plumage variation in A. ypecaha, A. wolfi, and A. mangle is discussed.
["Aramides wolfi"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Two new species of the Liolaemus elongatus-kriegi complex (Iguania, Liolaemidae) from Andean highlands of southern Chile
The elongatus-kriegi complex is one of the most diverse clades of the Liolaemus (sensu stricto) subgenus of lizards. There are currently 29 species recognized in this group distributed between Chile and Argentina. Based on molecular evidence, there seem to be five main clades nested within this complex: the elongatus, leopardinus, kriegi, petrophilus and punmahuida clades. Liolaemus buergeri and L. kriegi, both of the kriegi clade, were believed to inhabit the surroundings of the Laja Lagoon, in the Biobío Region of Chile. Moreover, this Chilean population of L. kriegi was recently recognized as an undescribed taxon called “Liolaemus sp. A” based on molecular phylogenetics. In this work, we studied these two populations of the Laja Lagoon and provided the morphological diagnosis to describe them as two new species: L. scorialis sp. n. and L. zabalai sp. n., previously considered L. buergeri and “L. kriegi/Liolaemus sp. A” respectively. Additionally, we identified another population of L. scorialis in the vicinity of La Mula Lagoon in the Araucanía Region of Chile. Liolaemus scorialis differs from almost all of the species of the elongatus-kriegi complex by its considerably smaller size. Nevertheless, without molecular data we cannot assign it to any particular subclade. Liolaemus zabalai belongs to the kriegi clade based on published molecular phylogenies. Finally, we provide some natural history data on both species and we document for the first time the presence of L. neuquensis in Chile from a museum specimen from La Mula Lagoon.
["Liolaemus buergeri"]

A new gall crab species (Brachyura, Cryptochiridae) associated with the free-living coral Trachyphyllia geoffroyi (Scleractinia, Merulinidae)
A new species of gall crab is described from the free-living stony coral Trachyphyllia geoffroyi. Specimens were collected during field work in Lembeh Strait (Indonesia) and off Kudat (Malaysian Borneo). This new species, here named Lithoscaptus semperi sp. n., is the ninth species assigned to the genus. It can be separated from its congeners by not having the internal orbital angle extending beyond the external orbital angle, and by the stout female P2 merus with prominent distomesial projection. In addition, the carapace surface appears smooth, despite having small tubercles on the anterior half, and is without noticeable spines, other than those on the frontal margin. The distinctive carapace pattern in life is a diagnostic character in male specimens.
["Cospeciation"]

A revision of the Neotropical caddisfly genus Leucotrichia Mosely, 1934 (Hydroptilidae, Leucotrichiinae)
A revision of Leucotrichia (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) is provided, including a generic diagnosis, illustrations, a key, and descriptions of males. A total of 43 species are treated, 13 described as new: Leucotrichia angelinae sp. n. (Venezuela), L. denticulata sp. n. (Mexico), L. dianeae sp. n (Costa Rica), L. fulminea sp. n. (Ecuador), L. hispida sp. n. (Costa Rica), L. kateae sp. n. (Venezuela), L. pectinata sp. n. (Ecuador), L. procera sp. n. (Brazil), L. repanda sp. n. (Venezuela), L. rhomba sp. n. (Costa Rica), L. riostoumae sp. n. (Ecuador), L. sidneyi sp. n. (Venezuela), and L. tapantia sp. n. (Costa Rica).
["Trichoptera"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of Hisonotus (Siluriformes, Loricariidae) from rio São Francisco basin, Brazil
A new species of Hisonotus is described from the rio São Francisco basin. The new species can be distinguished from congeners by having (1) a unique coloration pattern of caudal fin with one black spot extending from its origin to the ventral lobe and two dark spots at the end of the lobe’s rays; (2) odontodes forming longitudinally aligned rows on head and trunk; (3) a functional V-shaped spinelet; (4) a single rostral plate at the tip of the snout; (5) by lacking contrasting dark geometric spots on the anterodorsal region of the body; (6) a lower caudal-peduncle depth; and (7) lower counts of the lateral median plates and (8) higher premaxillary and dentary teeth. The new species is the second described species of the genus Hisonotus in the rio São Francisco basin. It was found inhabiting the marginal vegetation of the rio São Francisco and three of its tributary, rio das Velhas, rio Paraopeba and rio Formoso.
["Cascudinhos"]

Rediscovery of Rhabdomastix (Rhabdomastix) incapax Starý, 2005 (Diptera, Limoniidae), a crane fly species flightless in both sexes and probably endemic to Sardinia
Rediscovery of Rhabdomastix (Rhabdomastix) incapax Starý, 2005 in Sardinia made it possible to update the description of the male and to provide the first description of the female of this species. Notes on the wing reduction, ecology, and behaviour of this species are appended.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

New distribution records for Canadian Aleocharinae (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae), and new synonymies for Trichiusa
Fifty-four new Canadian provincial records of aleocharine beetles (Staphylinidae), including three new Canadian records and one new North American record, are presented. Of these, 33 are new provincial records for Saskatchewan, 14 for Alberta, two for British Columbia, three for Manitoba, two for the Northwest Territories and one for the Yukon Territory. The following are new Canadian records: Trichiusa pilosa Casey [formerly reported from Nova Scotia and Ontario as T. postica Casey], Acrotona recondita (Erichson) and the adventive Palaearctic Atheta nigra (Kraatz), which is also a new North American record. Bionomics information and new locality records are provided. The following new synonyms of Trichiusa pilosa Casey are established: T. atra Casey, T. monticola Casey, T. parviceps Casey, and T. postica Casey. The numbers of Aleocharinae remaining to be discovered in Canadian provinces and territories are discussed.

Two new species of Oobius Trjapitzin (Hymenoptera, Encyrtidae) egg parasitoids of Agrilus spp. (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) from the USA, including a key and taxonomic notes on other congeneric Nearctic taxa
Oobius Trjapitzin (Hymenoptera, Encyrtidae) species are egg parasitoids that are important for the biological control of some Buprestidae and Cerambycidae (Coleoptera). Two species, O. agrili Zhang & Huang and O. longoi (Siscaro), were introduced into North America for classical biocontrol and have successfully established. Two new native North American species that parasitize eggs of Agrilus spp. (Buprestidae) are described and illustrated from the USA: O. minusculus Triapitsyn & Petrice, sp. n. (Michigan), an egg parasitoid of both A. subcinctus Gory on ash (Fraxinus spp.) and A. egenus Gory on black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) trees, and O. whiteorum Triapitsyn, sp. n. (Pennsylvania), an egg parasitoid of A. anxius Gory on European white birch (Betula pendula Roth). A taxonomic key and notes on the Nearctic native and introduced Oobius species are also included.
["Emerald ash borer"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Two new species of Coecobrya (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from China, with an updated key to the Chinese species of the genus
Two new Coecobrya species, which were newly collected in 2014, are described from China. Coecobrya sanmingensis sp. n. from southeast China (Fujian) is the fourth 1+1 eyed species in the genus; it can be distinguished from other three species by the ciliate chaetae X and X2-4 on the ventral side of head, the abundant chaetae on the trochanteral organ, a large outer tooth on the unguiculus, the absence of smooth manubrial chaetae, and the dorsal chaetotaxy. Coecobrya qinae sp. n. from southwest China (Yunnan) is characterized by paddle-like S-chaetae of Ant. III organ, ciliate chaetae X, X2 and X4 posterior to labium, medial macrochaetae on the mesothorax, and 5+5 central and 2+2 lateral macrochaetae on the fourth abdominal segment. An updated key to the Chinese species of Coecobrya is given.
["Coecobrya sanmingensis sp. n."]

A new genus and species of native exotic millipede in Australia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Taxidiotisoma portabile gen. n., sp. n. is described from scattered populations in New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania, Australia. Populations of T. portabile in Victoria, Tasmania and parts of New South Wales occur in urban, suburban and agricultural areas, with no collections of the species in natural habitats in the same district. Taxidiotisoma portabile is likely to be a native exotic species whose home range is in eastern New South Wales.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

One new species of the genus Savarna Huber, 2005 (Araneae, Pholcidae) from southern Thailand
One new species Savarna kraburiensis sp. n. (♂♀) is reported from southern Thailand.

Identification guide to some Diaptomid species (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Diaptomidae) of “de la Plata” River Basin (South America)
An identification guide is presented for species of calanoid copepod family Diaptomidae from “de la Plata” River Basin (Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay). It was based on material collected during the summer and winter of 2010 from 43 sites across the eastern part and the lower stretches of this basin, the second largest in South America and the fourth in the world. The guide contains identification keys and species diagnoses for males and females, richly supported by scanning electronic micrographs and/or line drawings of 19 species. It also includes some general remarks on the taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships of these species. The key was adjusted to be useful for these species only, with separate keys for each sex, and is the first for females of South America. One species classified herein as incertae sedis was not included in the analysis. At least ten other species have previously been recorded in the basin but were not present in our samples. This is the first attempt to compile comprehensive taxonomic information on this group of copepods in this region, and it is expected to become a useful tool for biologists and young taxonomists interested in the crustacean biota of the Neotropical region.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

New records of Muscidae (Diptera) from Mediterranean countries
New records are provided for Muscidae from four different Mediterranean countries, with new distribution records for species in ten different genera. Seven species are newly recorded for Croatia, four species for Montenegro and one species for Bosnia & Herzegovina. In this paper we give the first confirmation of an aquatic larval stage for Lispocephala brachialis (Rondani, 1877), Lispocephala spuria (Zetterstedt, 1838) and Lispocephala mikii (Strobl, 1893). A first record of the species Coenosia lyneborgi Pont, 1972 since its original description is also provided.
["Limnophora"]

Two new Neuratelia Rondani (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) species from Western Palaearctic: a case of limited congruence between morphology and DNA sequence data
Two new Mycetophilidae species, Neuratelia jabalmoussae sp. n. and Neuratelia salmelai sp. n. are described on the basis of material collected from Lebanon, Estonia and Finland. Detailed figures of male terminalia and photographs of general facies are provided along with discussions of their morphological distinction from sibling species. For the first time molecular characters are used to distinguish new fungus gnat species. Molecular analysis relies on cytochrome oxidase subunit one (COI) but has additionally been corroborated by information from the 28S and ITS2 regions of nuclear ribosomal DNA. Situations where morphological and molecular data provide conflicting evidence for species delimitation are discussed. A new country record from Georgia is provided for Neuratelia caucasica.
["Mycetophilidae"]

Description of a new species of Wormaldia from Sardinia and a new Drusus species from the Western Balkans (Trichoptera, Philopotamidae, Limnephilidae)
New species are described in the genera Wormaldia (Trichoptera, Philopotamidae) and Drusus (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae, Drusinae). Additionally, the larva of the new species Drusus crenophylax sp. n. is described, and a key provided to larval Drusus species of the bosnicus-group, in which the new species belongs. Observations on the threats to regional freshwater biodiversity and caddisfly endemism are discussed. The new species Wormaldia sarda sp. n. is an endemic of the Tyrrhenian island of Sardinia and differs most conspicuously from its congeners in the shape of segment X, which is trilobate in lateral view. The new species Drusus crenophylax sp. n. is a micro-endemic of the Western Balkans, and increases the endemism rate of Balkan Drusinae to 79% of 39 species. Compared to other Western Balkan Drusus, males of the new species are morphologically most similar to D. discophorus Radovanovic and D. vernonensis Malicky, but differ in the shape of superior and intermediate appendages. The females of D. crenophylax sp. n. are most similar to those of D. vernonensis, but differ distinctly in the outline of segment X. Larvae of D. crenophylax sp. n. exhibit toothless mandibles, indicating a scraping grazing-feeding ecology.

Re-establishment of Carabus (Cathoplius) aliai Escalera, 1944 as a separate valid species (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Carabus (Cathoplius) aliai was described as a separate species by Escalera in 1944 but since the 1950–60s it has been considered as a subspecies of C. (Cathoplius) stenocephalus Lucas, 1866. This downgrading was adopted after examining only a few specimens, due to their rarity in collections. In recent years, an important population of this taxon was rediscovered in the Tan-Tan area in southern Morocco. By combining field observations with laboratory breeding experiments including hybridization trials, and through the morphological examination of a representative number of individuals, it is confirmed that C. aliai is indeed a valid species. Despite close geographic distribution, the morphological and biological characteristics of C. aliai and C. stenocephalus ifniensis Zarco, 1941, its northern substitutive taxon, are very different. Carabus aliai adults are characterized by a smaller size, a slender silhouette, a more brilliant aspect, a narrower pronotum, a coarser elytral sculpture, longer legs, and a wider and a little more curved apex of the median lobe of the aedeagus. Carabus aliai larvae are also characterized by a much smaller size and the C. aliai pupa has a narrower thoracic area and a different chaetotaxy compared to that of C. stenocephalus ifniensis. Contrary to this, C. aliai has a life cycle belonging to the annual univoltine winter semelparous type. Moreover, the duration of its development cycle is shorter. Carabus aliai is a sabulicolous steppe-wandering species with an intensive running activity, while C. stenocephalus ifniensis is a more sedentary taxon. Crossbreeding experiments showed a marked reproductive isolation between C. aliai and C. stenocephalus ifniensis. When F1 hybrids were crossed with one another, a very high mortality rate during embryonic, larval and pupal development was evident and no vital F2 neo-adults were obtained. Morphological and biological differences, together with the reproductive failure in C. aliai × C. stenocephalus ifniensis hybrids, clearly indicate that C. aliai is a separate Cathoplius species that is distributed in an area south of the Anti-Atlas chain, from Plage Blanche (Guelmim) to Lemsid and Bou Kra (south of Laâyoune). Carabus aliai is therefore both a Saharan desert endemic and an Atlantic resident. Moreover, it is the southernmost Carabus species of the western Palaearctic region.
["Carabus ground beetles"]

A faunistic study on the leafhoppers of northwestern Iran (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae)
The leafhopper fauna of northwestern Iran: Azarbaijan-e-Sharghi, Azarbaijan-e-Gharbi and Ardabil provinces is listed from previously published records and from our current work. Sixty-nine species are included with four species (Mogangella straminea Dlabola, 1957, Doratura stylata (Boheman, 1847), Macrosteles sordidipennis (Stål, 1858) and Psammotettix seriphidii Emeljanov, 1962) listed as new for Iran and Balclutha punctata (Fabricius, 1775), as a new record for the region. A distribution map of the species in northwestern Iran is given.
["Cicadellidae"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of the Clubiona corticalis-group from Yunnan Province, China (Araneae, Clubionidae)
The present paper describes two new Clubiona corticalis-group species collected from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province of China: Clubiona submoralis sp. n. (♀♂) and C. pollicaris sp. n. (♀♂).
["Sac spiders"]

Cyphastrea kausti sp. n. (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Scleractinia), a new species of reef coral from the Red Sea
A new scleractinian coral species, Cyphastrea kausti sp. n., is described from 13 specimens from the Red Sea. It is characterised by the presence of eight primary septa, unlike the other species of the genus, which have six, ten or 12 primary septa. The new species has morphological affinities with Cyphastrea microphthalma, from which it can be distinguished by the lower number of septa (on average eight instead of ten), and smaller calices and corallites. This species was observed in the northern and central Red Sea and appears to be absent from the southern Red Sea.
["Merulinidae"]

New data on the subgenus Harpopaederus of the genus Paederus (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) of mainland China
Paederus (Harpopaederus) xui Peng & Li, sp. n. (Sichuan: Micang Shan) is described. Additional records of five Harpaederus species are reported. All of these species are illustrated.
["Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Two new species of benthopelagic Stephos (Copepoda, Calanoida, Stephidae) from Korea
Two new species of benthopelagic copepods of the genus Stephos T. Scott, 1892, belonging to the family Stephidae G.O. Sars, 1902, are described based on specimens collected in the stagnant water flooding the burrows excavated by ocypodid crabs in two intertidal mud-flats, and from near-bottom shallow waters in Korea, respectively. They can be easily diagnosed based on the ornamentation of both the female genital double-somite and genital operculum; the morphology of the distal segment of the male right P5; the presence/absence of a tiny pointed process on the distomedial angle of second segment of female P5; and the condition (seta or spine) of the lateral armature element on the distal segment of female fifth legs, among other features. This is one of the few cases reported of calanoid copepods living as commensals of other invertebrates, and raises to six the number of members of the genus reported from Asia. This is also the first record of the family Stephidae in Korea.
["Stephos"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Revalidation of the spider genus Citharoceps Chamberlin, 1924 (Araneae, Segestriidae)
Citharoceps Chamberlin was diagnosed by the presence of a very distinctive stridulatory apparatus composed of two patches of ridges on the sides of the cephalic region, and a stridulatory thorn on the prolateral region of the femur I. Currently, this genus is a junior synonym of Ariadna Audouin, with the assumption that the stridulatory apparatus could constitute an exclusive feature of its unique known species, Citharoceps fidicina Chamberlin, currently senior synonym of Citharoceps californica Chamberlin & Ivie. In the present study, Citharoceps is revalidated and redescribed based on the occurrence of the stridulatory apparatus in C. fidicina and Segestria cruzana Chamberlin & Ivie, and also on the presence of distinguishable characters, such as the length of the labium-sternum junction, ventral median spine on male metatarsi I, and strong sclerotized interpulmonary fold in females, forming a conspicuous median flap. Segestria cruzana is transfered to Citharoceps, with C. californica removed from the synonym of C. fidicina, and proposed as a junior synonym of C. cruzana, due to the similarity between the additional material examined and the original description. Males of C. fidicina and C. cruzana are described for the first time.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic life and conservation", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Three new species of woodlizards (Hoplocercinae, Enyalioides) from northwestern South America
The discovery of three new species of Enyalioides from the tropical Andes in Ecuador and northern Peru is reported. Enyalioides altotambo sp. n. occurs in northwestern Ecuador and differs from other species of Enyalioides in having dorsal scales that are both smooth and homogeneous in size, a brown iris, and in lacking enlarged, circular and keeled scales on the flanks. Enyalioides anisolepis sp. n. occurs on the Amazonian slopes of the Andes in southern Ecuador and northern Peru and can be distinguished from other species of Enyalioides by its scattered, projecting large scales on the dorsum, flanks, and hind limbs, as well as a well-developed vertebral crest, with the vertebrals on the neck at least three times higher than those between the hind limbs. Enyalioides sophiarothschildae sp. n. is from the Amazonian slopes of the Cordillera Central in northeastern Peru; it differs from other species of Enyalioides in having caudal scales that are relatively homogeneous in size on each caudal segment, a white gular region with a black medial patch and several turquoise scales in males, as well as immaculate white labials and chin. A molecular phylogenetic tree of 18 species of hoplocercines is presented, including the three species described in this paper and E. cofanorum, as well as an updated identification key for species of Hoplocercinae.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Revision of the genus Philonome Chambers and its proposed reassignment to the family Tineidae (Lepidoptera, Tineoidea)
The New World genus Philonome Chambers, 1874 is revised. This genus comprises twelve species, seven of which are described as new: two species, P. nigrescens sp. n. and P. wielgusi sp. n., from the United States; four species, P. albivittata sp. n., P. curvilineata sp. n., P. kawakitai sp. n., and P. lambdagrapha sp. n., from French Guiana; and one species, P. penerivifera sp. n., from Brazil. Lectotypes are designated for Philonome clemensella Chambers, 1874 and P. rivifera Meyrick, 1915. Partially on evidence of their head morphology and particularly from molecular evidence, the genus Philonome, previously associated with Bucculatricidae or Lyonetiidae, is reassigned to Tineidae. A possible systematic position of Philonome within Tineidae is discussed. Eurynome Chambers, 1875, is synonymized with Argyresthia Hübner, 1825 (Argyresthiidae). Photographs of adults and illustrations of genitalia, when available, are provided for all described species of Philonome and two species previously misplaced in Philonome, Argyresthia luteella (Chambers, 1875) and Elachista albella (Chambers, 1877). In addition, DNA barcodes were used for the delimitation of most species.
["Argyresthia"]

A new ladybird spider from Hungary (Araneae, Eresidae)
According to the most recent taxonomic literature, three species of the genus Eresus are known in Central Europe, E. kollari, E. sandaliatus and E. moravicus. We recognized a fourth distinctive species from Hungary, which is described as Eresus hermani sp. n. Eresus hermani has an early spring copulation period, females have a light grey (grizzled) cephalothorax due to a heavy cover of lightly colored setae, and an epigyne with large flat areas posterior to the epigynal pit, while males are distinguished by a broad and blunt terminal tooth of the conductor. An updated and modified comparative table of Řezáč et al. (2008) to include all four Central European Eresus species, and a simple key to the species group’s species are given. Habitus, epigyne, vulva and conductor of E. kollari, E. moravicus and E. sandaliatus are also illustrated. An annotated list of papers illustrating E. hermani due to misidentifications is presented.
["Ladybird spiders"]

One new genus and two new species of oonopid spiders from Xishuangbanna Rainforest, southwestern China (Araneae, Oonopidae)
A new genus, Bannana, is established for two new species that resemble those of the Dysderoides complex. Two new species are described, B. crassispina sp. n. and B. parvula sp. n. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of both new species are given.

Assembly of a micro-hotspot of caenogastropod endemism in the southern Nevada desert, with a description of a new species of Tryonia (Truncatelloidea, Cochliopidae)
Newly obtained and previously published sequences of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene were analyzed to examine the biogeographic assembly of the caenogastropod fauna (belonging to the families Assimineidae, Cochliopidae, and Hydrobiidae) of an isolated spring along the lower Colorado River in southern Nevada (Blue Point Spring). Based on available COI clock calibrations, the three lineages that comprise this fauna are 2.78–1.42 million years old, which is roughly coeval or slightly younger than the age of Blue Point Spring (inferred from local fossil spring deposits). Two of the lineages—endemic Pyrgulopsis coloradensis and Assiminea aff. infima—are most closely related to snails in the Death Valley area (well to the west) and likely colonized Blue Point Spring by transport on birds. A single haplotype was detected in both of these snails, suggesting that they may have only recently colonized Blue Point Spring. The third lineage—endemic Tryonia infernalis, newly described herein based on morphological and molecular evidence—is most closely related to a geographically proximal species in a lower Colorado River tributary (T. clathrata); the split between these taxa may be the product of vicariance (severance of a prior drainage connection) or a separate jump dispersal event. The considerable genetic diversity in T. infernalis (three haplotypes differing by 0.6% mean sequence divergence) suggests a possibly lengthy history of local differentiation. Our findings also identify Blue Point Spring as a new micro-hotspot of groundwater-dependent biodiversity in Nevada and will assist ongoing efforts to protect and conserve these imperiled ecosystems.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Illustrated type catalogue of Amphidromus Albers, 1850 in the Natural History Museum, London, and descriptions of two new species
The collection of the Southeast Asian tree snail genus Amphidromus Albers, 1850 at the Natural History Museum, London includes more than 100 lots of type specimens representing 85 name-bearing types, 9 paratypes and 6 paralectotypes, and one nomen nudum. Lectotypes are here designated for A. cambojiensis, A. perakensis globosus, A. columellaris gloriosa, A. maculiferus inflata, A. lepidus, A. sinistralis lutea, A. moniliferus, A. maculiferus obscura, A. sinistralis rosea and A. sinensi vicaria. In addition, the missing types of A.A. Gould were discovered and their type status is discussed. A complete catalogue of these types, including colour photographs is provided for the first time. After examining these type specimens, two new Amphidromus species, Amphidromus (Syndromus) globonevilli Sutcharit & Panha, sp. n. and Amphidromus (Syndromus) principalis Sutcharit & Panha, sp. n. were recognized and are described herein.
["Tree snails"]

New species and records of Chimarra (Trichoptera, Philopotamidae) from Northeastern Brazil, and an updated key to subgenus Chimarra (Chimarrita)
Two new species of Chimarra (Chimarrita) are described and illustrated, Chimarra (Chimarrita) mesodonta sp. n. and Chimarra (Chimarrita) anticheira sp. n. from the Chimarra (Chimarrita) rosalesi and Chimarra (Chimarrita) simpliciforma species groups, respectively. The morphological variation of Chimarra (Curgia) morio is also illustrated. Chimarra (Otarrha) odonta and Chimarra (Chimarrita) kontilos are reported to occur in the northeast region of Brazil for the first time. An updated key is provided for males and females of the all species in the subgenus Chimarrita.

Pseudoexeirarthra, a new genus from New Zealand (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae), with descriptions of seven new species
A new endemic genus and seven new species of New Zealand pselaphine staphylinid beetles of the supertribe Faronitae are described as follows: Pseudoexeirarthra Park & Carlton, gen. n. (type species: Sagola spinifer Broun); P. sungmini Park & Carlton, sp. n.; P. kwangguki Park & Carlton, sp. n.; P. youngboki Park & Carlton, sp. n.; P. seiwoongi Park & Carlton, sp. n.; P. parkeri Park & Carlton, sp. n.; P. hlavaci Park & Carlton, sp. n.; P. nomurai Park & Carlton, sp. n. Three species, S. spinifer Broun, S. colorata Broun, and S. puncticollis Broun, are transferred to the genus Pseudoexeirarthra. Six species are synonymized: S. dilucida Broun, S. guinnessi Broun, S. longicollis Broun, S. longula Broun, and S. rectipennis Broun under P. spinifer (Broun); S. insueta Broun under S. colorata (Broun). A lectotype is designated for P. spinifer (Broun). A key, habitus photographs, line drawings of diagnostic characters, and distribution maps are provided for each species.

Description of new species of Stenaelurillus Simon, 1886 from the Western Ghats of India with the redescription of Stenaelurillus lesserti Reimoser, 1934 and notes on mating plug in the genus (Arachnida, Araneae, Salticidae)
A new species of the jumping spider genus Stenaelurillus Simon, 1886, S. albus sp. n., is described from the Western Ghats of India, one of the biodiversity hotspots of the world. Detailed morphological descriptions, diagnostic features and illustrations of copulatory organs of both sexes are given. Detailed redescription, diagnosis and illustration of S. lesserti Reimoser, 1934 are provided. The occurrence of a mating plug in the genus is reported.
["Mating plug"]

Joeropsididae Nordenstam, 1933 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Asellota) from the Lizard Island region of the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia
The marine isopod family Joeropsididae (Asellota) is documented for the Lizard Island region of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Fifteen species of Joeropsis are recorded, including ten new species; descriptive notes are provided for five species that lacked adequate material for description. A revised family and genus diagnosis is presented together with comments on the most useful characters for species identification and a key to Joeropsis of the Lizard Island region.

Revision of the Ceratocapsine Renodaeus group: Marinonicoris, Pilophoropsis, Renodaeus, and Zanchisme, with descriptions of four new genera (Heteroptera, Miridae, Orthotylinae)
The Renodaeus group, a monophyletic assemblage of genera within the New World orthotyline tribe Ceratocapsini, comprising eight genera, including four new ones, is defined; and 48 species are treated, including 26 described as new and 12 transferred from Ceratocapsus Reuter as new combinations. Ceratocapsidea gen. n. is described to accommodate the new species C. bahamaensis sp. n., from the Bahamas; C. baranowskii sp. n., from Jamaica; C. dominicanensis sp. n., from the Dominican Republic; C. rileyi sp. n., from Texas; C. taeniola sp. n., from Jamaica; C. texensis sp. n., from Texas; C. transversa sp. n., from Mexico (Neuvo León); and C. variabilis sp. n., from Jamaica; and Ceratocapsus balli Knight, comb. n., C. complicatus Knight, comb. n., C. consimilis Reuter, comb. n., C. fusiformis Van Duzee, comb. n. (as the type species of the genus), C. nigropiceus Reuter, comb. n., and C. rufistigmus Blatchley, comb. n. [and a neotype designated], Ceratocapsus clavicornis Knight, syn. n. and C. divaricatus Knight, syn. n. are treated as junior synonyms of Ceratocapsus fusiformis Van Duzee. The genus Marininocoris Carvalho and the only included species M. myrmecoides Carvalho are redescribed. The genus Pilophoropsis Poppius is redescribed and revised, Renodaeus texanus Knight, comb. n. is transferred into it and the three new species P. bejeanae sp. n., from Sonora, Mexico; P. cunealis sp. n., from Oaxaca, Mexico; P. quercicola sp. n., from Arizona, USA, are described. Pilophoropsidea gen. n. is described to accommodate the 12 new species P. brailovskyi sp. n., from Federal District, Mexico; P. cuneata sp. n., from Chiapas, Mexico; P. dimidiata sp. n., from Durango, Mexico; P. fuscata sp. n., from Durango, Mexico and Arizona and New Mexico, USA; P. keltoni sp. n., from Durango, Mexico; P. maxima sp. n., from Durango, Mexico; P. pueblaensis sp. n., from Puebla, Mexico; P. schaffneri sp. n., from Neuvo León and San Luis Potosi, Mexico; P. serrata sp. n., from Michoacan, Mexico; P. touchetae sp. n., from Mexico (Puebla); P. truncata sp. n., from Mexico (Guerrero); P. tuberculata sp. n., from Mexico (Guerrero); and Ceratocapsus barberi Knight, comb. n., Ceratocapsus camelus Knight, comb. n. (as the type species of the genus), and Ceratocapsus fascipennis Knight, comb. n. Pilophoropsita gen. n. is described to accommodate P. schaffneri sp. n. from Costa Rica and Mexico (Jalisco, Nayarit, Oaxaca). The genus Renodaeus Distant is redescribed and the new species R. mimeticus sp. n. from Ecuador is described. The genus Zanchisme Kirkaldy is reviewed and the four known species are redescribed. Zanchismeopsidea gen. n. is described to accommodate Z. diegoi sp. n. from Argentina (Santiago del Estero). Provided are habitus illustrations for certain adults (Pilophoropsidea camelus, Pilophoropsis brachyptera Poppius, Renodaeus mimeticus, and Zanchisme mexicanus Carvalho & Schaffner), male and female (when available) color digital images and figures of male genitalia of all species, electron photomicrographs of diagnostic characters for selected species, and keys to the genera and their included species. The taxa treated in this paper are arranged alphabetically by genus and species.
["Insecta"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

Free-living marine nematodes from San Julián Bay (Santa Cruz, Argentina)
The free-living marine nematodes of San Julián Bay dataset is based on sediment samples collected in January 2009 during the project PICT AGENCIA-FONCYT 2/33345-2005. A total of 36 samples have been taken at three locations in the San Julián Bay, Santa Cruz Province, Argentina on the coastal littoral at three tidal levels. This presents a unique and important collection for the nematode benthic biodiversity assessment as this area remains one of the least known regions in Patagonia. In total 10,030 specimens of free-living marine nematodes belonging to 2 classes, 9 orders, 35 families, 78 genera and 125 species were collected. The San Julián city site presented a very high species richness.
["Nematoda"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Five new records of bee flies (Bombyliidae, Diptera) from Saudi Arabia with zoogeographical remarks
Five bee-fly species (Bombyliidae, Diptera) have been listed in this paper as new to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Four of the recorded species have been identified to the level of species, namely: Bombomyia discoidea (Fabricius, 1794), Spogostylum candidum (Sack, 1909), Exoprosopa linearis Bezzi, 1924, and Exoprosopa minos (Meigen, 1804), while the fifth one only to genus, Desmatoneura sp. The species have been collected from Al-Baha and Asir Provinces in the south-western part of the Kingdom. One of the four identified species, Exoprosopa linearis, has an Afrotropical affinity, and another two, Spogostylum candidum and Bombomyia discoidea, have considerable Afrotropical distributions, and this result agrees to some extent with studies considering these parts of the Arabian Peninsula, including Al-Baha and Asir Provinces, having Afrotropical influences and may be included in the Afrotropical Region rather than in the Palaearctic Region or the Eremic zone.
["Asir"]

An illustrated key to Neotropical species of the genus Meteorus Haliday (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Euphorinae)
A comprehensive key for 75 species of Meteorus distributed across 15 Neotropical countries is presented. Eleven new species from Bolivia, Costa Rica and Ecuador are described: M. albistigma, M. carolae, M. eurysaccavorus, M. fallacavus, M. flavistigma, M. haimowitzi, M. magnoculus, M. martinezi, M. microcavus, M. noctuivorus and M. orion. Expanded range distributions are recorded for M. andreae, M. farallonensis, M. guineverae, M. jerodi, M. kraussi, M. papiliovorus and M. quimbayensis. The host of M. jerodi is reported for the first time: a noctuid larva feeding on Asteraceae. Meteorus papiliovorus is recorded attacking Papilionidae larvae in Ecuador, therefore displaying a similar host family preference as formerly documented from Costa Rica and Colombia.

First report, morphological and molecular characterization of Xiphinema elongatum and X. pachtaicum (Nematoda, Longidoridae) from Ethiopia
A total of six soil samples were collected around rhizosphere of citrus plants during 2010 from Melkassa Agricultural Research Center experimental station, Ethiopia. From these samples two most important ecto-plant parasitic nematodes of the genus Xiphinema were found and analysed. The genus Xiphinema is a large group of the phylum nematoda which constitutes more than 260 species. They are polyphagous root- ectoparasites of many crop plants and some species of this genus cause damage by direct feeding on root tips and transmit nepoviruses. The delimitation and discrimination of two species in the genus is presented, described herein as Xiphinema elongatum and Xiphinema pachtaicum. Morphological and morphometric data were done using light microscopy and results of both species were fit within the previously described nematode species of X. elongatum and X. pachtaicum. 18S rDNA were analysed using Bayesian inference (BI) method to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships of the studied Xiphinema sp. (KP407872X. elongatum and KP407873X. pachtaicum) with other Xiphinema species. The 18S rDNA sequence of X. pachtaicum was alike to previously described species from the GenBank but X. elongatum exhibited very small levels of nucleotides differences (0.4%) which might be possible intra-specific divergence. Though this region of rDNA has less resolution on complex species, its combination with morphological and morphometric analyses, suggests these species as X. elongatum and X. pachtaicum with the GenBank accession number of KP407872 and KP407873, respectively. Short notes, morphological measurements, illustrations, and molecular data are given to these species. These species are reported for the first time from Ethiopia and it provides new geographical information of these organisms.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Cassava research and cyanide"]

A genus-level taxonomic review of primitively segmented spiders (Mesothelae, Liphistiidae)
The spider suborder Mesothelae, containing a single extant family Liphistiidae, represents a species-poor and ancient lineage. These are conspicuous spiders that primitively retain a segmented abdomen and appendage-like spinnerets. While their classification history is nearly devoid of phylogenetic hypotheses, we here revise liphistiid genus level taxonomy based on original sampling throughout their Asian range, and on the evidence from a novel molecular phylogeny. By combining morphological and natural history evidence with phylogenetic relationships in the companion paper, we provide strong support for the monophyly of Liphistiidae, and the two subfamilies Liphistiinae and Heptathelinae. While the former only contains Liphistius Schiödte, 1849, a genus distributed in Indonesia (Sumatra), Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, we recognize and diagnose seven heptatheline genera, all but three removed from the synonymy of Heptathela: i) Ganthela Xu & Kuntner, gen. n. with the type species G. yundingensis Xu, sp. n. is known from Fujian and Jiangxi, China; ii) a rediagnosed Heptathela Kishida, 1923 is confined to the Japanese islands (Kyushu and Okinawa); iii) Qiongthela Xu & Kuntner, gen. n. with the type species Q. baishensis Xu, sp. n. is distributed disjunctly in Hainan, China and Vietnam; iv) Ryuthela Haupt, 1983 is confined to the Ryukyu archipelago (Japan); v) Sinothela Haupt, 2003 inhabits Chinese areas north of Yangtze; vi) Songthela Ono, 2000 inhabits southwest China and northern Vietnam; and vii) Vinathela Ono, 2000 (Abcathela Ono, 2000, syn. n.; Nanthela Haupt, 2003, syn. n.) is known from southeast China and Vietnam.

Two new species of the genus Diostracus Loew from Tibet, with a key to the Himalayan fauna (Diptera, Dolichopodidae)
Previously only one species of the genus Diostracus was known to occur in Tibet. Here the following two new species are added to the fauna of Tibet: Diostracus acutatus sp. n. and D. tibetensis sp. n. Their relationships with similar species are discussed. A key to the species of Diostracus from the Himalayas is presented.

Five new Lamiinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) from Bolivia in honor of James E. Wappes
Five new species of Lamiinae are described from Bolivia, all named after James E. Wappes: Xenofrea wappesi (Xenofreini); Anobrium wappesi (Pteropliini); Cotycicuiara wappesi, Nesozineus wappesi, and Psapharochrus wappesi (Acanthoderini). Anobrium wappesi, C. wappesi, and N. wappesi are included in known keys. A short note on the name and date of Anobrium oberthueri Belon, 1903 is provided.
["Keys"]

Subdivision of the tribe Oligaphorurini in the light of new and lesser known species from North-East Russia (Collembola, Onychiuridae, Onychiurinae)
The paper is devoted to a taxonomic review of Oligaphorurini from the north-eastern part of Palaearctic. Two new species, i.e. Oligaphorura ambigua sp. n. and O. duocellata sp. n., are described. Four species, O. nataliae (Fjellberg, 1987), O. interrupta (Fjellberg, 1987), O. pingicola (Fjellberg, 1987), and Micraphorura alnus (Fjellberg, 1987), are redescribed on base of the types and new material, and remarks on other species known for the region, O. groenlandica (Tullberg, 1876), O. ursi (Fjellberg, 1984), O. aborigensis (Fjellberg, 1987), and M. absoloni (Börner, 1901), are given to clarify their generic affiliation. Finally, merits and disadvantages of the current subdivision of the tribe are discussed and a key to the northern species of the tribe is provided.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

Three new species of Tasmaniosoma Verhoeff, 1936 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Dalodesmidae) from northeast Tasmania, Australia
The small-range millipedes Tasmaniosoma anubis sp. n., T. interfluminum sp. n. and T. nicolaus sp. n. are described, and the colour of live T. barbatulum Mesibov, 2010 is documented.

Review of Canadian species of the genus Mocyta Mulsant & Rey (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae), with the description of a new species and a new synonymy
Six species of the genus Mocyta Mulsant & Rey are reported from Canada: Mocyta amblystegii (Brundin), M. breviuscula (Mäklin), M. discreta (Casey), M. fungi (Gravenhorst), M. luteola (Erichson), and M. sphagnorum Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n. New provincial and state records include: M. breviuscula – Saskatchewan and Oregon; M. discreta – Quebec, Ontario and Saskatchewan; M. luteola – New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Massachusetts and Minnesota; and M. fungi – Saskatchewan. Mocyta sphagnorum is described from eastern Canada from specimens captured in Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Quebec and Ontario. Mocyta negligens Mulsant and Rey, a native European species suspected of occurring in Canada, is excluded from the Nearctic fauna based on comparison of European types with similarly coloured Canadian specimens, which are now identified as M. luteola. The European species, Mocyta gilvicollis (Scheerpeltz), is synonymized with another European nominal species, M. negligens, based on examination of type material of the two species. Lectotypes are designated for Eurypronota discreta Casey, Atheta gilvicollis Scheerpeltz, Homalota luteola Erichson, Colpodota negligens Mulsant and Rey, Acrotona prudens Casey and Dolosota redundans Casey. The latter species is here synonymized with M. luteola. A review of the six Nearctic species is provided, including keys to species and closely related genera, colour habitus images, images of genitalia, biological information and maps of their distributions in Canada.

Peruvian oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) from the German Biological Expedition, with description of a new species of the genus Pergalumna
The present study is based on oribatid mite material (Acari, Oribatida) collected during the German Expedition in 2011 in Peru. An annotated checklist of identified oribatid mites, including 16 species from 14 genera and 8 families, is provided. Thirteen species and two genera (Notohermannia, Zetomimus) are recorded for the first time in Peru; the genus Notohermannia and species Notohermannia obtusa are recorded for the first time in the Neotropical region. A new species of the genus Pergalumna (Galumnidae), P. paraboliviana sp. n., is described. The new species is most similar to Pergalumna boliviana Ermilov, 2013 from Bolivia, however, it differs from the latter by the body size, morphology of porose areas A1 and the presence of interlamellar setae.
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The Diplommatinidae of Fiji – a hotspot of Pacific land snail biodiversity (Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoroidea)
The minute (adult size 1.3–4.8 mm) land snail species of the family Diplommatinidae in the Fiji archipelago are revised based on historical material and modern (1998–99) collections targeting limestone outcrops on the largest island, Viti Levu, and several smaller islands in the Lau group. The forty-two species (including 30 new species) belong to the genera Moussonia Semper, 1865, Palaina Semper, 1865 and Diancta Martens, 1867, which are briefly characterized and keyed. The diagnostic structure of the inner lamellar system of each species is illustrated. All species except one are endemic to Fiji. In Viti Levu, the 12 localities surveyed each had 1–13 (average 5) species of Diplommatinidae; ten species were each found at a single site only. In the Lau islands, five islands were visited, with 1–4 species per island; four species are known from single islands. The number of historically known species not recollected in 1998–99 (7 species), the number of single-site occurrences (14 species), and the numerous islands — including limestone islands — that have not been surveyed at all, indicate that the 42 species of Diplommatinidae currently known from Fiji represent perhaps only half of the Fiji diplommatinid fauna. Such numbers approach the diplommatinid diversity of Palau (39 described and more than 60 undescribed species), and surpasses by far the diversity of other South Pacific archipelagos of comparable land area (New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Samoa). Nomenclatural acts: Lectotypes designated: Diplommatina fuscula, D. fuscula var. vitiana, D. godeffroyana, D. godeffroyana var. latecostata, D. tuberosa, D. martensi var. macrostoma, all Mousson, 1870. Neotypes designated: Diplommatina subregularis, D. ascendens, D. quadrata, all Mousson, 1870. New species: Diancta aurea sp. n., Diancta aurita sp. n., Diancta basiplana sp. n., Diancta controversa sp. n., Diancta densecostulata sp. n., Diancta dextra sp. n., Diancta dilatata sp. n., Diancta distorta sp. n., Diancta pulchella sp. n., Diancta rotunda sp. n., Diancta subquadrata sp. n., Diancta trilamellata sp. n., Moussonia acuta sp. n., Moussonia barkeri sp. n., Moussonia brodieae sp. n., Moussonia longipalatalis sp. n., Moussonia minutissima sp. n., Moussonia obesa sp. n., Moussonia polita sp. n., Moussonia uncinata sp. n., Moussonia vitianoides sp. n., Palaina alberti sp. n., Palaina flammulata sp. n., Palaina glabella sp. n., Palaina kitteli sp. n., Palaina labeosa sp. n., Palaina parietalis sp. n., Palaina sulcata sp. n., Palaina truncata sp. n., Palaina tuberosissima sp. n.
["Diplommatinidae"]

Morphological and molecular study of Symphyla from Colombia
The symphylans are a poorly studied group. In Colombia the number of symphylan species is unknown with only Scutigerella immaculata (Symphyla: Scutigerellidae) being reported previously. The aim of this research was to collect and identify the symphylan pests of flower crops in Colombia. Morphological descriptions showed that our specimens shared more than one of the characters that define different genera within Scutigerellidae. The COI barcode haplotype showed interspecific level genetic divergence with S. causeyae (at least 23%) and Hanseniella sp. (22%). Furthermore, our Colombian symphylans shared the same COI haplotype as some Symphyla found in Cameroon indicating a wide geographical distribution of this taxon. Our results suggest the presence of a new genus or subgenus in the class Symphyla.
["Scutigerella"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Date Palm Research Studies"]

A new genus and species of tettigarctid cicada from the early Miocene of New Zealand: Paratettigarcta zealandica (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Tettigarctidae)
A new genus and species of primitive cicada (Hemiptera: Tettigarctidae) is described from the early Miocene of southern New Zealand. Paratettigarcta zealandica gen. et sp. n. is the first cicada (Cicadoidea) fossil from New Zealand and exhibits wing venation patterns typical for the subfamily Tettigarctinae. It differs from other fossil taxa and the extant genus Tettigarcta in the early divergence of CuA2 from the nodal line in the forewing, its parallel-sided subcostal cell, the early bifurcation of vein M and long apical cells of the hindwing, and in wing pigmentation patterns.
["Cicadoidea"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Three new species of Epicephala Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) associated with Phyllanthus microcarpus (Benth.) (Phyllanthaceae)
Three new species of Epicephala Meyrick, 1880 are described based on specimens reared from fruits of Phyllanthus microcarpus (Benth.): Epicephala microcarpa sp. n. and E. laeviclada sp. n. from Guangxi and Hainan, and Epicephala tertiaria sp. n. from Guangdong and Guangxi. Photographs of adults and illustrations of genital structures are provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

The systematics of Echinorhynchus Zoega in Müller, 1776 (Acanthocephala, Echinorhynchidae) elucidated by nuclear and mitochondrial sequence data from eight European taxa
The acanthocephalan genus Echinorhynchus Zoega in Müller, 1776 (sensuYamaguti 1963) is a large and widespread group of parasites of teleost fish and malacostracan crustaceans, distributed from the Arctic to the Antarctic in habitats ranging from freshwaters to the deep-sea. A total of 52 species are currently recognised based on the conventional morphological species concept; however, the true diversity in the genus is masked by cryptic speciation. The considerable diversity within Echinorhynchus is an argument for subdividing the genus if monophyletic groups with supporting morphological characters can be identified. With this objective in mind, partial sequences of two genes with different rates of evolution and patterns of inheritance (nuclear 28S rRNA and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) were used to infer the phylogenetic relationships among eight taxa of Echinorhynchus. These included representatives of each of three genus group taxa proposed in a controversial revision of the genus based on cement gland pattern, namely Echinorhynchus (sensu stricto), Metechinorhynchus Petrochenko, 1956 and Pseudoechinorhynchus Petrochenko, 1956. These groupings have previously been rejected by some authorities, because the diagnostic character is poorly defined; this study shows that Echinorhynchus (sensu stricto) and Metechinorhynchus are not natural, monophyletic groups. A revision of Echinorhynchus will require tandem molecular phylogenetic and morphological analyses of a larger sample of taxa, but this study has identified two morhological characters that might potentially be used to define new genera. The estimated phylogeny also provides insight into the zoogeographical history of Echinorhynchus spp. We postulate that the ancestral Echinorhynchus had a freshwater origin and the genus subsequently invaded the sea, probably several times. The freshwater taxa of the E. bothniensis Zdzitowiecki & Valtonen, 1987 clade may represent a reinvasion of freshwater by one or more ancestral marine species.
["Acanthocephala"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Parasitic infections in humans and animals"]

Sumatrella chelonica gen. n., sp. n., a new remarkable genus and species from Indonesia, Sumatra (Acari, Uropodina, Oplitidae)
A new genus Sumatrella gen. n. is described and illustrated based on the new species Sumatrella chelonica sp. n. collected in Sumatra, Indonesia. The new genus belongs to the family Oplitidae based on its hypertrichous internal malae and the absence of strongly sclerotized structures on the dorsal shield. The new genus is closely related to the genus Chelonuropoda Sellnick, 1954 but the transverse furrow on ventral idiosoma close to coxae IV and the strongly sclerotized C-shaped dorsal line are missing in the new genus. These characters can be found in species of Chelonuropoda.
["South-East Asia"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A revision of the Nearctic species of Liancalus Loew (Diptera, Dolichopodidae)
The genus Liancalus Loew is revised for the Nearctic Region. Seven species are documented from this region including two new species: Liancalus genualis Loew, L. hydrophilus Aldrich, L. limbatus Van Duzee, L. pterodactyl sp. n., L. querulus Osten Sacken, L. similis Aldrich, and L. sonorus sp. n. Lectotypes are designated for the following species: L. genualis, L. hydrophilus, L. querulus, and L. similis. The species are illustrated, a key to males and females is provided, and their distributions mapped. Adults of Liancalus are some of the largest species of Dolichopodidae and commonly occur on waterfalls and vertical seeps.
["Nearctic"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new species of Zospeum Bourguignat, 1856 from the Basque-Cantabrian Mountains, Northern Spain (Eupulmonata, Ellobioidea, Carychiidae)
Two new species of the genus Zospeum Bourguignat, 1856 are described from caves in the Sierra de Aitzgorri (Gipuzkoa) and the Sierra Salvada (Burgos) in Northern Spain. The taxa Z. vasconicum sp. n. and Z. zaldivarae sp. n. have recently, without a formal name, been included in a molecular study of worldwide members of the Carychiidae. In the present paper, the shell morphology and variation of these species is described and illustrated.
["Cave-dwelling species"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Palearctic elements in the old world tropics: a taxonomic revision of the ant genus Temnothorax Mayr (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) for the Afrotropical biogeographical region
Four new Afrotropical species of the ant genus Temnothorax are described and illustrated, all from Kenya. Based upon high resemblance to taxa known from the North African and Iberian territories of the Mediterranean region, these new tropical elements are placed into known Palaearctic species complexes. Specifically, T. brevidentis sp. n., T. mpala sp. n. and T. rufus sp. n. are placed in the laurae species group, and T. solidinodus sp. n. is placed in the angustulus species group. Two already known Temnothorax species from the region, T. cenatus (Bolton, 1982) and T. megalops (Hamann & Klemm, 1967), are also placed into the laurae species group based on the high number of shared morphological characters. Diagnoses for the African representatives of laurae and angustulus species groups of the Afrotropical biogeographical region are provided. A key to workers of the six Temnothorax species known to occur in the Afrotropical biogeographical region is provided, as well as diagnoses of morphologically similar myrmicine genera.

Review of the genera Anelaphinis Kolbe, 1892 and Atrichelaphinis Kraatz, 1898 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae)
New material collected recently throughout the Afrotropical region has led to a major reassessment of taxa within the genera Anelaphinis Kolbe, 1892, Atrichelaphinis Kraatz, 1898 and other closely related genera. As a result, the name Megalleucosma Antoine, 1989 is here synonymised with Anelaphinis and a lectotype is designated for the type species, Cetonia dominula Harold, 1879. The genus Atrichelaphinis is redefined and a new subgenus, A. (Eugeaphinis), is proposed for Elaphinis simillima Ancey, 1883, Elaphinis vermiculata Fairmaire, 1894, Niphetophora rhodesiana Péringuey, 1907, Atrichelaphinis deplanata Moser, 1907 (with Anelaphinis kwangensis Burgeon, 1931 as junior synonym) and Anelaphinis sternalis Moser, 1914. Additionally, three new species and one new subspecies are recognised and described in this new subgenus: A. (Eugeaphinis) bomboesbergicasp. n. from South Africa; A. (Eugeaphinis) bjornstadisp. n. from Tanzania; A. (Eugeaphinis) garnierisp. n. from south–east Africa (Tanzania, Zimbabwe); and A. (Eugeaphinis) deplanata minettiissp. n. from central Africa (Malawi, Mozambique, Congo-Kinshasa, Congo-Brazzaville, South Africa, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe). The genus Atrichelaphinis is compared to its closest relatives and two separate keys are proposed, one for Atrichelaphinis and one for the sub-Saharan genera exhibiting completely or partially fused parameres.

A new species of Paracreptotrema (Digenea, Plagiorchiformes, Allocreadiidae) infecting two species of poeciliids in Río Malila of the Río Pánuco basin, Hidalgo, México, with a key to the species of the genus
Paracreptotrema rosenthali sp. n. was discovered in the intestine of Xiphophorus malinche and Pseudoxiphophorus jonesii, collected from the headwaters of Río Malila, tributary of Río Conzintla, in the Río Pánuco basin, Hidalgo, México, during 2008–2009. The new species differs from the five known species of Paracreptotrema Choudhury, Pérez-Ponce de León, Brooks & Daverdin, 2006 by having vitelline follicles that extend from a level anterior to the pharynx to mid-testes, the seminal vesicle which is more extensively folded, and a wider cirrus sac. The new species resembles P. heterandriae in the length of its ceca, which surpasses the posterior margin of the ovary but do not reach the testes. A key to the species of Paracreptotrema is provided.
["Paracreptotrema"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Parasites and Host Interactions"]

Two new species of Pseudancistrus (Siluriformes, Loricariidae) from the Amazon basin, northern Brazil
Two new species of Pseudancistrus, a genus diagnosed by non-evertible cheek plates and hypertrophied odontodes along the snout margin, are described from two drainages of the Brazilian Shield: P. kayabi from the rio Teles Pires (rio Tapajós basin) and P. asurini from the rio Xingu. The new species are distinguished from congeners (P. barbatus, P. corantijniensis, P. depressus, P. nigrescens, P. reus, and P. zawadzkii) by the coloration pattern. Pseudancistrus kayabi has dark bars on the dorsal and caudal fins which are similar to that of P. reus from the Caroní River, Venezuela. Pseudancistrus asurini is unique among Pseudancistrus in having whitish tips of the dorsal and caudal fins in juveniles to medium-sized adults.
["Ancistrini"]

First record of Rhoptrocentrus piceus Marshall (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Doryctinae) as parasitoid of Psacothea hilaris hilaris (Pascoe) (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
The species Rhoptrocentrus piceus Marshall (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) was reared from the larvae of the xylophagous beetle Psacothea hilaris hilaris (Pascoe) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), an exotic pest of Ficus and Morus species native to eastern Asia. It was recorded in the north of Italy in September 2005. This discovery is the first report of this species as parasitoids of the yellow spotted longicorn beetle all over the world.
["Ectoparasitoid"]

Halechiniscidae (Heterotardigrada, Arthrotardigrada) of Oura Bay, Okinawajima, Ryukyu Islands, with descriptions of three new species
Marine tardigrades of the family Halechiniscidae (Heterotardigrada: Arthrotardigrada) are reported from Oura Bay, Okinawajima, one of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, including Dipodarctus sp., Florarctus wunai sp. n., Halechiniscus churakaagii sp. n., Halechiniscus yanakaagii sp. n. and Styraconyx sp. The attributes distinguishing Florarctus wunai sp. n. from its congeners is a combination of two characters, the smooth dorsal cuticle and two small projections of the caudal alae caestus. Halechiniscus churakaagii sp. n. is differentiated from its congeners by the combination of two characters, the robust cephalic cirrophores and the scapular processes with flat oval tips, while Halechiniscus yanakaagii sp. n. can be identified by the laterally protruded arched double processes with acute tips situated dorsally at the level of leg I. A list of marine tardigrades reported from the Ryukyu Islands is provided.
["Meiobenthos"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Planetary Science and Exploration"]

Rhinolekos capetinga: a new cascudinho species (Loricariidae, Otothyrinae) from the rio Tocantins basin and comments on its ancestral dispersal route
The present study deals with the description of a new species of Rhinolekos. It can be distinguished from its congeners by having 31 vertebrae, the anterior portion of the compound supraneural-first dorsal-fin proximal radial contacting the neural spine of the 9th vertebra, the absence of transverse dark bands in the pectoral, pelvic and anal-fin rays, 24–28 plates in the dorsal series, the lack of odontodes on the ventral tip of the snout, the absence of accessory teeth, a greater prenasal length, a smaller head length, and by a greater snout length. Rhinolekos capetinga is restricted to the headwaters of the rio Tocantins and it is the first species of this genus in the Amazon basin. Additionally, we present a brief discussion of a biogeographic scenario that may explain the dispersal of the new species from the rio Paranaíba to the rio Tocantins basin. We suggest that the ancestral lineage of R. capetinga reached the rio Tocantins from portions of the rio Paranaíba at the end of the Miocene, about 6.3 Mya (4.1–13.9 Mya 95% HPD), probably as a result of headwater capture processes among adjacent drainages.

The Bostrichidae of the Maltese Islands (Coleoptera)
The Bostrichidae of the Maltese Islands are reviewed. Ten species are recorded with certainty from this Archipelago, of which 6 namely, Trogoxylon impressum (Comolli, 1837), Amphicerus bimaculatus (A.G. Olivier, 1790), Heterobostrychus aequalis (Waterhouse, 1884), Sinoxylon unidentatum (Fabricius, 1801), Xyloperthella picea (A.G. Olivier, 1790) and Apate monachus Fabricius, 1775 are recorded for the first time. Two of the mentioned species (H. aequalis and S. unidentatum) are alien and recorded only on the basis of single captures and the possible establishment of these species is discussed. Earlier records of Scobicia pustulata (Fabricius, 1801) from Malta are incorrect and should be attributed to S. chevrieri (A. Villa & J.B. Villa, 1835). A zoogeographical analysis and an updated checklist of the 12 species of Bostrichidae recorded from the Maltese Islands and neigbouring Sicilian islands (Pantelleria, Linosa and Lampedusa) are also provided. Rhizopertha dominica (Fabricius, 1792) form granulipennis Lesne in Beeson & Bhatia, 1937 from Uttarakhand (northern India) was overlooked by almost all subsequent authors. Its history is summarized and the following new synonymy is established: Rhizopertha dominica (Fabricius, 1792) form granulipennis Lesne in Beeson & Bhatia, 1937 = Rhyzopertha dominica (Fabricius, 1792), syn. n. Finally, records of Amphicerus bimaculatus from Azerbaijan, of Bostrichus capucinus (Linnaeus, 1758) from Jordan and Syria, of Scobicia chevrieri from Jordan and Italy, of Xyloperthella picea from Italy, and of Apate monachus from Corsica (France) and Italy, are also provided.
["Bostrichidae"]

A review of Solenysa spiders from Japan (Araneae, Linyphiidae), with a comment on the type species S. mellotteei Simon, 1894
The present paper gives a review of Solenysa species from Japan and provides a solution for the species bearing the generotype name S. mellotteei Simon, 1894. A total of six species are recorded, including two new species S. macrodonta sp. n. and S. trunciformis sp. n. The species collected from Kawasaki (NSMT-Ar 11154) and Hachioji should be the generotype S. mellotteei, with S. akihisai Tu, 2011, syn. n. as its junior synonym. To distinguish these congeneric species from each other, their genital characters are provided in detail based on images collected by scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy.
["Genitalia"]

A new species of Hyalella (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Dogielinotidae) from the Atlantic Forest of Misiones, Argentina
The freshwater genus Hyalella Smith, 1874 has a distribution restricted to the Western Hemisphere with most species being found in South America. In this report we describe a new species of Hyalella from the Atlantic Forest of the Misiones province, Argentina.
["Hyalella"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

New Bythinella (Gastropoda, Bythinellidae) species from western Turkey
Bythinella anatolica sp. n., Bythinella istanbulensis sp. n., Bythinella magdalenae sp. n., and Bythinella wilkei sp. n. from western Turkey are described herein. Illustrations of the shell and genitalia of the newly described taxa, together with comparisons with previously known Bythinella taxa and a key to the species from western Turkey, are also provided.
["Bythinella"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Helminth infection and control"]

Three new species of saddled loricariid catfishes, and a review of Hemiancistrus, Peckoltia, and allied genera (Siluriformes)
Three new species of saddled hypostomine loricariids are described. According to a recent phylogenetic analysis, these species are members of the genus Peckoltia. The species differ from all described Peckoltia except P. furcata and P. sabaji by having the dentaries meet at an angle greater than 90°. The species also have similarities to Hemiancistrus, and can be separated from all described species by having dorsal saddles. We discuss the taxonomy of Peckoltia, Hemiancistrus, and allied genera and recognize Ancistomus as valid for P. feldbergae, H. micrommatos, Ancistrus snethlageae, H. spilomma, and H. spinosissimus. We recommend descriptions of genera for several clades of Hemiancistrus and restriction of Hemiancistrus to the type species of the genus, H. medians. Chaetostomus macrops is transferred to Pseudancistrus and recognized as a junior synonym of P. megacephalus. The Hemiancistrus annectens group of species (H. annectens, H. argus, H. aspidolepis, H. fugleri, H. holostictus, H. maracaiboensis, H. panamensis, H. wilsoni) are recognized in Hypostomus. Multivariate analysis reveals that the newly described species differ from one another in shape space, but overlap broadly with other Peckoltia (P. lujani), narrowly with other Peckoltia (P. greedoi), or broadly with Etsaputu (P. ephippiata).
["Ancistrini"]

A new species of Telmatobius (Amphibia, Anura, Telmatobiidae) from the Pacific slopes of the Andes, Peru
We describe a new species of Telmatobius from the Pacific slopes of the Andes in central Peru. Specimens were collected at 3900 m elevation near Huaytará, Huancavelica, in the upper drainage of the Pisco river. The new species has a snout–vent length of 52.5 ± 1.1 mm (49.3–55.7 mm, n = 6) in adult females, and 48.5 mm in the single adult male. The new species has bright yellow and orange coloration ventrally and is readily distinguished from all other central Peruvian Andean species of Telmatobius but T. intermedius by having vomerine teeth but lacking premaxillary and maxillary teeth, and by its slender body shape and long legs. The new species differs from T. intermedius by its larger size, flatter head, and the absence of cutaneous keratinized spicules (present even in immature females of T. intermedius), and in males by the presence of minute, densely packed nuptial spines on dorsal and medial surfaces of thumbs (large, sparsely packed nuptial spines in T. intermedius). The hyper-arid coastal valleys of Peru generally support low species richness, particularly for groups such as aquatic breeding amphibians. The discovery of a new species in this environment, and along a major highway crossing the Andes, shows that much remains to be done to document amphibian diversity in Peru.
["Huancavelica"]

A review of the genus Toxorhina Loew from China, with descriptions of three new species (Diptera, Limoniidae, Limoniinae)
The genus Toxorhina Loew from China is reviewed. Seven species belonging to the subgenus Ceratocheilus Wesche are recognized, of which three species, T. (C.) huanglicasp. n., T. (C.) omnifuscasp. n. and T. (C.) univirgatasp. n., are described as new to science, T. (C.) fuscolimbata Alexander is recorded from China for the first time, and three known species are redescribed and illustrated.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Additions to the review of Chinese Enochrus, with description of a new species (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Enochrinae)
A new species, Enochrus (Methydrus) limbourgisp. n., is described from Jiangxi Province, Southeast China, and illustrated. Subgenus Enochrus s. str. Thomson, 1859 is recorded for the first time in China, based on the record of Enochrus (s. str.) melanocephalus (Olivier, 1792) from Inner Mongolia. The male of Enochrus (Hydatotrephis) liangi Jia & Zhao, 2007 is described for the first time.

One new species of the genus Belisana Thorell, 1898 (Araneae, Pholcidae) from northern Vietnam
One new species Belisana denticulata sp. n. (♂) is reported from northern Vietnam based on material collected by fogging the forest canopy. This species resembles B. scharffi Huber, 2005, but can be distinguished by relatively long distance between proximal parts of proximo-lateral apophysis and distal apophysis on male chelicerae, by presence of a nearly saddle-shaped prolateral sclerite on procursus, and by different shape of retrolateral membranous flap on procursus. Type specimens are deposited in the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology in Hanoi.

Two new species of Bryobia (Acarina, Prostigmata, Tetranychidae) from South France
Two new species of Tetranychidae belonging to the genus Bryobia are reported from France. Bryobia belliloci sp. n. and B. gigas sp. n. collected on Genista cinerea and Bituminaria bituminosa, respectively, are described and illustrated in the present work. Additional data to the original description of B. cinereae are given and an identification key to known Bryobia species from France is also provided.
["Study of Mite Species", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

New species of Rissoidae (Mollusca, Gastropoda) from the Archipelago of the Azores (northeast Atlantic) with an updated regional checklist for the family
Four new species of shallow-water marine gastropods belonging to the family Rissoidae are described from the Archipelago of the Azores: Setia alexandrae sp. n., S. ermelindoi sp. n., S. netoae sp. n., and Manzonia martinsi sp. n. These novelties increase the regional rissoid fauna to 39 species, of which 29 live in shallow-water habitats. A list of the species of Rissoidae from the Azores is presented based on data from the literature and new material examined.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Description of Telamoptilia grewiae sp. n. and the consequences for the definition of the genera Telamoptilia and Spulerina (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Gracillariinae)
The new species Telamoptilia grewiae, reared from leafmines on Grewia biloba (Malvaceae) is described with details on adult and immature stages. The larval head and the pupa are described for the first time in Telamoptilia Kumata & Kuroko, 1988, and are illustrated with scanning electron micrographs and line drawings. Photographs of adult habitus, wing venation, male and female genitalia, as well as host plant and mines are provided. The apomorphic adult and larval characters of the new species in Telamoptilia are discussed in relation to the recognition of the genera Telamoptilia and Spulerina Vári, 1961.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Research on scale insects"]

Revision of the genus Exaesiopus Reichardt, 1926 (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Saprininae)
The genus Exaesiopus Reichardt, 1926 is revised herein. It now contains seven species; one new combination is proposed: Pachylopus glaucus = Exaesiopus glaucus (Bickhardt, 1914), comb. n., and one species is described as new: Exaesiopus therondi sp. n. from Afghanistan. Subspecies E. grossipes berberus Peyerimhoff, 1936 is sunk in synonymy with E. grossipes (Marseul, 1855), syn. n. Lectotypes and paralectotypes, respectively, for Saprinus grossipes Marseul, 1855, Exaesiopus grossipes berberus Peyerimhoff, 1936 and a neotype for Pachylopus glaucus Bickhardt, 1914 are designated. Exaesiopus grossipes is re-described; other species are provided with diagnostic descriptions and supplemented by SEM micrographs, colour images, and line drawings of their male genitalia. A key to species is given. Exaesiopus glaucus (Bickhardt, 1914) is newly recorded from the Republic of South Africa; Exaesiopus torvus Reichardt, 1926 is new to Uzbekistan and Russia; Exaesiopus atrovirens Reichardt, 1926 is new to Ukraine and Tajikistan; and Exaesiopus henoni (Schmidt, 1896) is new to Libya and Djibouti.
["Exaesiopus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Temnothorax crasecundus sp. n. – a cryptic Eurocaucasian ant species (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) discovered by Nest Centroid Clustering
The paper integrates two independent studies of numeric morphology-based alpha-taxonomy of the cryptic ant species Temnothorax crassispinus (Karavajev, 1926) and T. crasecundus sp. n. conducted by different investigators, using different equipment, considering different character combinations and evaluating different samples. Samples investigated included 603 individual workers from 203 nests – thereof 104 nest samples measured by Seifert and 99 by Csösz. The material originated from Europe, Asia Minor and Caucasia. There was a very strong interspecific overlap in any of the 29 shape characters recorded and subjective expert determination failed in many cases. Primary classification hypotheses were formed by the exploratory data analysis Nest Centroid (NC) clustering and corrected to final species hypotheses by an iterative linear discriminant analysis algorithm. The evaluation of Seifert’s and Csösz’s data sets arrived at fully congruent conclusions. NC-Ward and NC-K-means clustering disagreed from the final species hypothesis in only 1.9 and 1.9% of the samples in Seifert’s data set and by 1.1 and 2.1% in Csösz’s data set which is a strong argument for heterospecificity. The type series of T. crassispinus and T. crasecundus sp. n. were allocated to different clusters with p = 0.9851 and p = 0.9912 respectively. The type series of the junior synonym T. slavonicus (Seifert, 1995) was allocated to the T. crassispinus cluster with p = 0.9927. T. crasecundus sp. n. and T. crassispinus are parapatric species with a long contact zone stretching from the Peloponnisos peninsula across Bulgaria northeast to the southern Ukraine. There is no indication for occurrence of interspecifically mixed nests or intraspecific polymorphism. However, a significant reduction of interspecific morphological distance at sites with syntopic occurrence of both species indicates local hybridization. The results are discussed within the context of the Pragmatic Species Concept of Seifert (2014). The taxonomic description and a differential diagnosis of T. crasecundus sp. n. are given.
["Numeric morphology-based alpha-taxonomy"]

First record of harpacticoid copepods from Lake Tahoe, United States: two new species of Attheyella (Harpacticoida, Canthocamptidae)
Benthic harpacticoids were collected for the first time at Lake Tahoe, California-Nevada, United States. Two species were identified as members of the genus Attheyella Brady, 1880. The genus Attheyella comprises about 150 species within six subgenera, but only twelve species have previously been reported from North American freshwater habitats. The two new species of Attheyella described here have a 3-segmented endopod on P1 and 2-segmented P2–P4 endopods, the distal segment of exopod of P2–P4 has three outer spines, and the P5 has five setae on the exopod and six setae on the baseoendopod. Attheyella (Attheyella) tahoensissp. n. most closely resembles A. (A.) idahoensis (Marsh, 1903) from Idaho, Montana, and Alaska (United States) and A. (A.) namkungi Kim, Soh & Lee, 2005 from Gosu Cave in South Korea. They differ mainly by the number of setae on the distal endopodal segment of P2–P4. In addition, intraspecific variation has been observed on the caudal rami. Attheyella (Neomrazekiella) tessiaesp. n. is characterized by the extension of P5 baseoendopod, 2-segmented endopod of female P2–P3, and naked third seta of male P5 exopod. The two new species are likely endemic to Lake Tahoe, an isolated alpine lake within the Great Basin watershed in the western United States.
["Benthic Harpacticoida"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

First record of the genus Gratia Thomas (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from China with the description of a new species
A new species of Baetidae, Gratia baibungensis sp. n., is described and illustrated based on nymphal stage collected from the southeastern Tibet (Xizang) and the genus is reported for the first time from China. This new species can be readily differentiated from its congeners by the absence of a protuberance on the posterior margin of the abdominal tergum X, glabrate simple submarginal setae on the labrum, and the posterior margin of sterna VI–IX having much longer spatulate setae.
["Mayfly"]

Phylogeny and biogeography of Asthenopodinae with a revision of Asthenopus, reinstatement of Asthenopodes, and the description of the new genera Hubbardipes and Priasthenopus (Ephemeroptera, Polymitarcyidae)
The Neotropical species of Asthenopodinae are revised in a formal phylogenetic context. The five known species of Asthenopus Eaton, 1871, together with other five new species were included in a cladistic analysis using morphological characters (continuous and discretes). Representatives of the Afro-Oriental group of the subfamily (Povilla Navás, 1912 and Languidipes Hubbard, 1984) were also included to test the monophyletic hypothesis traditionally accepted for the group. Additional taxa representing the other subfamilies of Polymitarcyidae were incorparated: Ephoron Williamson, 1802 (Polymitarcyinae) and Campsurus Eaton, 1868, Tortopus Needham & Murphy, 1924 and Tortopsis Molineri, 2010 (Campsurinae). A matrix of 17 taxa and 72 characters was analyzed under parsimony resulting in a single tree supporting the monophyly of the subfamily Asthenopodinae. Other results include the monophyly of the Afro-Oriental taxa (Povilla and Languidipes), the paraphyletic nature of Neotropical Asthenopodinae, and the recognition of four South American genera: Asthenopus (including A. curtus (Hagen), 1861, A. angelae de Souza & Molineri, 2012, A. magnus sp. n., A. hubbardi sp. n., A. guarani sp. n.), Asthenopodes Ulmer, 1924, stat. n. (including A. picteti Hubbard, 1975, stat. n., A. traverae sp. n., A. chumuco sp. n.), Priasthenopus gen. n. (including P. gilliesi (Domínguez), 1988, comb. n.), and Hubbardipes gen. n. (including H. crenulatus (Molineri et al.), 2011, comb. n.). Descriptions, diagnoses, illustrations and keys are presented for all Neotropical taxa of Asthenopodinae (adults of both sexes, eggs and nymphs). Additionally a key to the subfamilies and genera of Polymitarcyidae is included. A quantitative biogeographic analysis of vicariance is presented and discussed through the study of the “taxon history” of the group.
["Ephemeroptera"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Descriptions of two azooxanthellate Palythoa species (Subclass Hexacorallia, Order Zoantharia) from the Ryukyu Archipelago, southern Japan
Two new species of zoantharians (Hexacorallia, Zoantharia, Sphenopidae), Palythoa mizigama sp. n. and P. umbrosa sp. n., are described from the Ryukyu Archipelago, southern Japan. Unlike almost all other known Palythoa spp., both species are azooxanthellate and inhabit low-light environments such as floors or sides of caves, crevasses, or hollows of shallow coral reefs. The two species were initially considered to be the same species from their similar habitat environments and highly similar morphological features. However, phylogenetic analyses of nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) ribosomal DNA, mitochondrial 16S ribosomal DNA, and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences revealed that these two species have a genetically distant relationship within the genus Palythoa. Morphological characteristics, including polyp size, tentacle number, external/internal coloration, and types and sizes of cnidae were examined in this study. As a result, only tentacle coloration was found to be useful for the morphological distinction between the two species. Palythoa mizigama possesses white tentacles with black horizontal stripes while P. umbrosa possesses white tentacles without any stripe patterns. Considering their distant phylogenetic relationship, it can be assumed that their unique yet similar morphological and ecological characteristics developed independently in each species as an example of parallel evolution.
["Cave-dwelling"]

One new species of the subgenus Hexatoma (Eriocera) Macquart (Diptera, Limoniidae) from China with a key to Chinese species
One new species of the subgenus Eriocera Macquart, 1838, Hexatoma (Eriocera) cleopatroides Men, sp. n. (Southern China: Anhui) is described and illustrated. A key to all of 78 known species from China in the subgenus is provided, which was solely based on literatures. The new species is similar to H. (E.) cleopatra Alexander, 1933, but distinguishes from the latter by the prescutum entirely black with two ill-defined gray stripes, by the legs with fore and middle femora brown in basal half, black in apical half, with hind femora brown in basal one-fourth, and by the wings with cells c and sc more yellowish brown than the ground color.
["Nematocera"]

A new species of bromeliad-feeding Cephaloleia Chevrolat (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae) from Costa Rica: evidence from DNA barcodes, larval and adult morphology and insect diets
The Neotropical genus Cephaloleia Chevrolat (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae) includes 214 species distributed from the south of Mexico to Argentina. Cephaloleia beetles feed mostly on plants from the order Zingiberales. The interactions between Cephaloleia beetles and their Zingiberales host plants is proposed as one of the oldest and most conservative associations. Here we describe a new species of Cephaloleia (C. kuprewiczae sp. n.) that feeds on two species of bromeliads (Pitcairnia arcuata and P. brittoniana, Bromeliaceae: Pitcairnioideae). Cephaloleia kuprewiczae was previously described as Cephaloleia histrionica. This study includes evidence from DNA barcodes (COI), larval and adult morphology and insect diets that separates C. kuprewiczae from C. histrionica as a new species.
["Braulio Carrillo National Park"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Taxonomic revision of genus Ablattaria Reitter (Coleoptera, Silphidae) using geometric morphometrics
The genus Ablattaria Reitter, 1884 (Coleoptera: Silphidae: Silphinae) is revised. Four taxa are recognized as valid species: Ablattaria arenaria (Kraatz, 1876), A. cribrata (Ménétries, 1832), A. laevigata (Fabricius, 1775) and A. subtriangula Reitter, 1905. Ablattaria laevigata var. meridionalis Ganglbauer, 1899 is newly treated as a junior subjective synonym of A. laevigata. Lectotypes are designated for Phosphuga arenaria Kraatz, 1876, Ablattaria arenaria var. punctigera Reitter, 1884, Ablattaria arenaria var. alleoni Portevin, 1926, Silpha cribrata Ménétries, 1832, Silpha laevigata Fabricius, 1775, Silpha gibba Brullé, 1832, Ablattaria gibba var. costulata Portevin, 1926, Ablattaria gibba var. distinguenda Portevin, 1926, Ablattaria gibba var. punctata Portevin, 1926 and Ablattaria subtriangula Reitter, 1905. The distribution of all taxa is mapped, based on material examined. Geometric morphometric methods were used to evaluate shape variability in Ablattaria. Results indicated sexual dimorphism in all species. Shape inconsistency was found between the sexes of all taxa when tested independently. The first two relative warp axes indicated 65.17% shape variation in males and 65.72% in females. Canonical variate analysis separated the taxa studied. There was minimal overlap between some groups in both sexes. Differences in body shape between populations of A. laevigata from Central Europe, Italy and Greece + Turkey were also examined. Relative warps implied 58.01% shape variability on both axes in males and 64.78% in females. CVA revealed noticeable overlaps between the groups, although the Italian population demonstrated a higher separation in both sexes.
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

New records of ant species from Yunnan, China
As with many other regions of the world, significant collecting, curation, and taxonomic efforts will be needed to complete the inventory of China’s ant fauna. This is especially true for the highly diverse tropical regions in the south of the country, where moist tropical forests harbor high species richness typical of the Southeast Asian region. We inventoried ants in the Xingshuangbanna prefecture, Yunnan, in June 2013, using a variety of methods including Winkler extraction and hand collection to sample ant diversity. We identified 213 species/morphospecies of ants from 10 subfamilies and 61 genera. After identification of 148 valid species of the 213 total species collected, 40 species represent new records for Yunnan province and 17 species are newly recorded for China. This increases the total number of named ant species in Yunnan and China to 447 and 951 respectively. The most common species collected were Brachyponera luteipes and Vollenhovia emeryi. Only one confirmed exotic species Strumigenys membranifera, was collected, although several others were potentially introduced by humans. These results highlight the high biodiversity value of the region, but also underscore how much work remains to fully document the native myrmecofauna.

A new species of Metagovea Rosas Costa, 1950 from Napo Province, Ecuador (Opiliones, Cyphophthalmi, Neogoveidae)
As a result of an expedition to Ecuador in 2014, a new species of mite harvestman was discovered. This new species belonging to the genus Metagovea Rosas Costa, 1950 – Metagovea ligiae sp. n. – is described, based on male and female specimens from Napo Province, Ecuador. This is the fourth species described for the genus and the second from Ecuador. A simple terminology is proposed for the microtrichiae of the spermatopositor and genital characters in the family are discussed. The genus Brasiliogovea Martens, 1969 is consistently misspelled in the literature as Brasilogovea. The description of Metagovea ligiae offered opportunity to discuss some aspects of systematics of the family.
["Neotropical fauna"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The New World whirligig beetles of the genus Dineutus Macleay, 1825 (Coleoptera, Gyrinidae, Gyrininae, Dineutini)
All New World members of the whirligig beetle genus Dineutus Macleay, 1825 are treated. The New World Dineutus are found to be composed of 18 species and 6 subspecies: one species, Dineutus mexicanus Ochs, 1925, stat. n. is elevated from subspecies to species rank, and the subspecies D. carolinus mutchleri Ochs, 1925, syn. n. is synonymized here with the typical form. Lectotypes are designated for D. discolor Aubé, 1838, D. metallicus Aubé, 1838, D. solitarius Aubé, 1838, D. analis Régimbart, 1883, and Gyrinus longimanus Olivier, 1795. Each taxonomic unit is provided with a taxonomic history, type locality, diagnosis, distribution, habitat information, and a discussion section. The aedeagus and male mesotarsal claws are illustrated, and dorsal and ventral habitus images of both sexes, for each species and subspecies are provided. General distribution maps are provided for all taxonimc units. A key to the genera of New World Gyrinidae, as well as all the New World Dineutus species is provided. General Dineutus anatomy as well as a clarification of homology and anatomical terms is included.

A new species of Metaeuchromius (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) from the Tibetan glacier area of China
Metaeuchromius glacialis Li, sp. n. is described from the Tibetan glacier area of China. The new species is similar to M. circe Bleszynski by the distal projection of costa exceeding the apex of valva, and the phallus with strong spine-like cornuti in the male genitalia. Images of male adult, tympanal and scent organs as well as genitalia of the new species are provided.
["Pyraloidea"]

Revision of the ant genus Proceratium Roger (Hymenoptera, Proceratiinae) in Fiji
The Fiji archipelago harbours a surprisingly diverse and endemic ant fauna, despite its isolated and remote location in the South Pacific. The ant genus Proceratium is present on Fiji with three endemic species, of which P. oceanicum De Andrade, 2003 and P. relictum Mann, 1921 were previously known. In this study we describe the third species: P. vinaka sp. n. All three species are members of the widespread and species-rich P. silaceum clade. In order to integrate the new species into the current taxonomic system, we present an illustrated identification key to the worker caste of the three Fijian species. In addition, we provide a detailed description of P. vinaka, as well as species accounts for the other two species, which include diagnoses, taxonomic discussions, specimen photographs, and a distribution map.

A new species of the genus Sulawesifulvius Gorczyca, Chérot, & Štys, 2004 (Insecta, Heteroptera, Miridae, Cylapinae) from India
A new species, Sulawesifulvius indicus sp. n., is described from Bangalore, India. It is easily separated from the type species S. schuhi Gorczyca et al., 2004, the only other species of the genus, by the small size, dorsal coloration, and the male genital structures. The discovery of a new species of Sulawesifulvius in southern India considerably extends the distribution of the genus, previously recorded only from Sulawesi, Indonesia.
["Sulawesifulvius indicus sp. n."]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

The Blattodeas.s. (Insecta, Dictyoptera) of the Guiana Shield
Here we provide a checklist of cockroach species known from areas within the Guiana Shield based on literature records and new field collection. We give records of sixteen species collected in Guyana, eight of which are new records for Guyana and one of which is a new generic record for the entire Guiana Shield. We also provide a description for a geographically disparate species of Calhypnorna Stal, and the new species Xestoblatta berenbaumae. The complete checklist contains 234 species of Blattodeas.s. currently known in the shield. This checklist shows particularly low richness in Guianan Venezuela, Roraima and Amapa Brazil, but this is likely an artifact due to under–sampling. Indeed, based on previously published data and current fieldwork, we believe that most regions of the Guiana Shield are under–sampled for cockroaches. Despite this, French Guiana (151 spp.) and Suriname (136 spp.) rank as the second and sixth most species dense faunas of cockroaches in the neotropics.
["Cockroach"]

New species of Daidalotarsonemus and Excelsotarsonemus (Acari, Tarsonemidae) from the Brazilian rainforest
Three new species of Tarsonemidae, Daidalotarsonemus oliveirai Rezende, Lofego & Ochoa, sp. n., Excelsotarsonemus caravelis Rezende, Lofego & Ochoa, sp. n. and Excelsotarsonemus tupi Rezende, Lofego & Ochoa, sp. n. are described and illustrated. Measurements for these species are provided, as well as drawings, phase contrast (PC), differential interference contrast (DIC) and low temperature scanning electron microscopy (LT-SEM) micrographs. Some characters, which have not been used or clearly understood, are described herein. Biological, ecological and agricultural aspects about the role of these species in the rainforest and its surrounding environment are briefly discussed.
["Study of Mite Species", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Araneae Sloveniae: a national spider species checklist
The research of the spider fauna of Slovenia dates back to the very beginning of binomial nomenclature, and has gone through more and less prolific phases with authors concentrating on taxonomy, faunistics, ecology and zoogeographic reviews. Although the body of published works is remarkable for a small nation, the faunistic data has remained too scattered for a thorough understanding of regional biotic diversity, for comparative and ecological research, and for informed conservation purposes. A national checklist is long overdue. Here, a critical review of all published records in any language is provided. The species list currently comprises 738 species, is published online at http://www.bioportal.si/katalog/araneae.php under the title Araneae Sloveniae, and will be updated in due course. This tool will fill the void in cataloguing regional spider faunas and will facilitate further araneological research in central and southern Europe.
["Faunistics"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

First record of the genus Prosopistoma Latreille, 1833 (Ephemeroptera, Prosopistomatidae) in Taiwan
The finding of three immature nymphs of Prosopistoma Latreille, 1833 (Ephemeroptera, Prosopistomatidae) in an upstream site of Baishih River represents the first record of this rarely collected genus in Taiwan. These nymphs were discovered through extensive monthly sampling at the riffle habitats from 13 undisturbed sites over two years (Dec 2008–Nov 2010). The coloration pattern of the collected immature nymphs in Taiwan is similar to the immature stage of P. ocellatum and P. annamense, two species which have been found in similarly undisturbed, upland forested-stream habitats.
["Mayfly"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Distribution of Benthesicymus tanneri Faxon, 1893 (Dendrobranchiata, Benthesicymidae) off the west coast of Mexico and notes on its morphology
A large series of specimens of Benthesicymus tanneri Faxon, 1893 (Dendrobranchiata; Benthesicymidae) was collected during an extensive survey of deep-water invertebrate fauna off western Mexico. In total, 61 males and 122 females (M:F ratio = 1:2) from 44 sampling stations were examined, considerably increasing the number of known specimens and sampling localities for this species which is widely distributed along the Pacific coast of Mexico. The collection is the largest available for this species to date and presents first records from off the west coast of the Baja California Peninsula and a slight increase of the northernmost record within the Gulf of California. On the whole, females grew larger than males. The petasma of males of different sizes and the female thelycum of B. tanneri are illustrated. The petasma of B. tanneri presents a ventrolateral crescent-shape process otherwide found only in B. tirmiziae Crosnier, 1978 and in B. bartletti S.I. Smith, 1882. A key to the four species of Benthesicymus presently known from the eastern Pacific is presented.
["Benthesicymus"]

Systematics of the family Plectopylidae in Vietnam with additional information on Chinese taxa (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Stylommatophora)
Vietnamese species from the family Plectopylidae are revised based on the type specimens of all known taxa, more than 600 historical non-type museum lots, and almost 200 newly-collected samples. Altogether more than 7000 specimens were investigated. The revision has revealed that species diversity of the Vietnamese Plectopylidae was previously overestimated. Overall, thirteen species names (anterides Gude, 1909, bavayi Gude, 1901, congesta Gude, 1898, fallax Gude, 1909, gouldingi Gude, 1909, hirsuta Möllendorff, 1901, jovia Mabille, 1887, moellendorffi Gude, 1901, persimilis Gude, 1901, pilsbryana Gude, 1901, soror Gude, 1908, tenuis Gude, 1901, verecunda Gude, 1909) were synonymised with other species. In addition to these, Gudeodiscus hemmeni sp. n. and G. messageri raheemi ssp. n. are described from north-western Vietnam. Sixteen species and two subspecies are recognized from Vietnam. The reproductive anatomy of eight taxa is described. Based on anatomical information, Halongella gen. n. is erected to include Plectopylis schlumbergeri and P. fruhstorferi. Additionally, the genus Gudeodiscus is subdivided into two subgenera (Gudeodiscus and Veludiscus subgen. n.) on the basis of the morphology of the reproductive anatomy and the radula. The Chinese G. phlyarius werneri Páll-Gergely, 2013 is moved to synonymy of G. phlyarius. A spermatophore was found in the organ situated next to the gametolytic sac in one specimen. This suggests that this organ in the Plectopylidae is a diverticulum. Statistically significant evidence is presented for the presence of calcareous hook-like granules inside the penis being associated with the absence of embryos in the uterus in four genera. This suggests that these probably play a role in mating periods before disappearing when embryos develop. Sicradiscus mansuyi is reported from China for the first time.

Discovery of an unknown diversity of Leucinodes species damaging Solanaceae fruits in sub-Saharan Africa and moving in trade (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Pyraloidea)
The larvae of the Old World genera Leucinodes Guenée, 1854 and Sceliodes Guenée, 1854 are internal feeders in the fruits of Solanaceae, causing economic damage to cultivated plants like Solanum melongena and S. aethiopicum. In sub-Saharan Africa five nominal species of Leucinodes and one of Sceliodes occur. One of these species, the eggplant fruit and shoot borer L. orbonalis Guenée, 1854, is regarded as regularly intercepted from Africa and Asia in Europe, North and South America and is therefore a quarantine pest on these continents. We investigate the taxonomy of African Leucinodes and Sceliodes based on morphological characters in wing pattern, genitalia and larvae, as well as mitochondrial DNA, providing these data for identification of all life stages. The results suggest that both genera are congeneric, with Sceliodes syn. n. established as junior subjective synonym of Leucinodes. L. orbonalis is described from Asia and none of the samples investigated from Africa belong to this species. Instead, sub-Saharan Africa harbours a complex of eight endemic Leucinodes species. Among the former nominal species of Leucinodes (and Sceliodes) from Africa, only L. laisalis (Walker, 1859), comb. n. (Sceliodes) is confirmed, with Leucinodes translucidalis Gaede, 1917, syn. n. as a junior subjective synonym. The other African Leucinodes species were unknown to science and are described as new: L. africensis sp. n., L. ethiopica sp. n., L. kenyensis sp. n., L. malawiensis sp. n., L. pseudorbonalis sp. n., L. rimavallis sp. n. and L. ugandensis sp. n. An identification key based on male genitalia is provided for the African Leucinodes species. Most imports of Leucinodes specimens from Africa into Europe refer to Leucinodes africensis, which has been frequently imported with fruits during the last 50 years. In contrast, L. laisalis has been much less frequently recorded, and L. pseudorbonalis as well as L. rimavallis only very recently in fruit imports from Uganda. Accordingly, interceptions of Leucinodes from Africa into other continents will need to be re-investigated for their species identity and will likely require, at least in parts, revisions of the quarantine regulations. The following African taxa are excluded from Leucinodes: Hyperanalyta Strand, 1918, syn. rev. as revised synonym of Analyta Lederer, 1863; Analyta apicalis (Hampson, 1896), comb. n. (Leucinodes); Lygropia aureomarginalis (Gaede, 1916), comb. n. (Leucinodes); Syllepte hemichionalis Mabille, 1900, comb. rev., S. hemichionalis idalis Viette, 1958, comb. rev. and S. vagans (Tutt, 1890), comb. n. (Aphytoceros). Deanolis iriocapna (Meyrick, 1938), comb. n. from Indonesia is originally described and misplaced in Sceliodes, and L. cordalis (Doubleday, 1843), comb. n. (Margaritia) from New Zealand, L. raondry (Viette, 1981), comb. n. (Daraba) from Madagascar as well as L. grisealis (Kenrick, 1912), comb. n. (Sceliodes) from New Guinea are transferred from Sceliodes to Leucinodes. While Leucinodes is now revised from Africa, it still needs further revision in Asia.
["Leucinodes"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of the genus Orthotemnus Wollaston, 1873 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Cossoninae) from China
A new species, Orthotemnus longitarsus sp. n., is described from China, representing the first record of the genus Orthotemnus Wollaston, 1873 from China. Illustrations of diagnostic features of the new species and a key to all six species of the genus Orthotemnus (including O. reflexus Wollaston, O. disparilis Pascoe, O. filiformis Champion, O. expansus Hustache and O. ulmi Zherichin) are provided. All type specimens of the new species are deposited in the National Zoological Museum in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.

New genera, species and records of Phaneropterinae (Orthoptera, Phaneropteridae) from sub-Saharan Africa
The results of the study of many specimens preserved in different European museums are reported. The tribe Terpnistrini Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1878 is resurrected. The distribution of the following species is enhanced: Pardalota asymmetrica Karsch, 1896, Diogena denticulata Chopard, 1954, Diogena fausta (Burmeister, 1838), Plangiopsis adeps Karsch, 1896, Poreuomena sanghensis Massa, 2013 and Tylopsis continua (Walker, 1869). Further, for their peculiar characteristics, two African representatives of the American genus Symmetropleura Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1878 are included in two new genera: Symmetrokarschia africana (Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1878), comb. n. and Symmetroraggea dirempta (Karsch, 1889), comb. n. A new genus and species from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angustithorax spiniger gen. n., sp. n., and a new genus and species from Tanzania, Arostratum oblitum gen. n., sp. n. are described. Finally Melidia claudiae sp. n. and Atlasacris brevipennis sp. n. are described and compared with related species.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Review of the millipede genus Kronopolites Attems, 1914 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae), with the description of a new species from Laos
The millipede genus Kronopolites currently comprises 11 species, including a new species from northern Laos: K. lunatus sp. n. The generic diagnosis is updated, a key given to all known species, and their distributions are mapped.

Southern hemisphere deep-water stylasterid corals including a new species, Errina labrosa sp. n. (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa, Stylasteridae), with notes on some symbiotic scalpellids (Cirripedia, Thoracica, Scalpellidae)
A number of stylasterid corals are known to act as host species and create refuges for a variety of mobile and sessile organisms, which enhances their habitat complexity. These include annelids, anthozoans, cirripeds, copepods, cyanobacteria, echinoderms, gastropods, hydroids and sponges. Here we report the first evidence of a diverse association between stylasterids and scalpellid pedunculate barnacles and describe a new stylasterid species, Errina labrosa, from the Tristan da Cunha Archipelago. Overall, five stylasterid species are found to host eight scalpellid barnacles from several biogeographic regions in the southern hemisphere (Southern Ocean, temperate South America and the southern Indo-Pacific realms). There is an apparent lack of specificity in this kind of association and different grades of reaction to the symbiosis have been observed in the coral. These records suggest that the association between pedunculate barnacles and hard stylasterid corals has a wide distribution among different biogeographic realms and that it is relatively rare and confined largely to deep water.
["Deep-water symbiosis"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Three new species of European Platypalpus (Diptera, Hybotidae)
Platypalpus graecoides sp. n. (Italy), P. pyreneensis sp. n. (Andorra), and P. silvahumidus sp. n. (Czech Republic) are described. All three species are illustrated and keyed. Platypalpus hallensis Grootaert & Stark, 1997 is first reported from France and Spain.
["Platypalpus"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

The first troglobitic species of freshwater flatworm of the suborder Continenticola (Platyhelminthes) from South America
Brazilian cave diversity, especially of invertebrates, is poorly known. The Bodoquena Plateau, which is located in the Cerrado Biome in central Brazil, has approximately 200 recorded caves with a rich system of subterranean water resources and high troglobitic diversity. Herein we describe a new troglobitic species of Girardia that represents the first obligate cave-dwelling species of the suborder Continenticola in South America. Specimens of the new species, which occur in a limestone cave in the Bodoquena Plateau, in the Cerrado biome, are unpigmented and eyeless. Species recognition in the genus Girardia is difficult, due to their great morphological resemblance. However, the new species can be easily recognized by a unique feature in its copulatory apparatus, namely a large, branched bulbar cavity with multiple diverticula.
["New cave-dwelling species"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Island life in the Cretaceous - faunal composition, biogeography, evolution, and extinction of land-living vertebrates on the Late Cretaceous European archipelago
The Late Cretaceous was a time of tremendous global change, as the final stages of the Age of Dinosaurs were shaped by climate and sea level fluctuations and witness to marked paleogeographic and faunal changes, before the end-Cretaceous bolide impact. The terrestrial fossil record of Late Cretaceous Europe is becoming increasingly better understood, based largely on intensive fieldwork over the past two decades, promising new insights into latest Cretaceous faunal evolution. We review the terrestrial Late Cretaceous record from Europe and discuss its importance for understanding the paleogeography, ecology, evolution, and extinction of land-dwelling vertebrates. We review the major Late Cretaceous faunas from Austria, Hungary, France, Spain, Portugal, and Romania, as well as more fragmentary records from elsewhere in Europe. We discuss the paleogeographic background and history of assembly of these faunas, and argue that they are comprised of an endemic ‘core’ supplemented with various immigration waves. These faunas lived on an island archipelago, and we describe how this insular setting led to ecological peculiarities such as low diversity, a preponderance of primitive taxa, and marked changes in morphology (particularly body size dwarfing). We conclude by discussing the importance of the European record in understanding the end-Cretaceous extinction and show that there is no clear evidence that dinosaurs or other groups were undergoing long-term declines in Europe prior to the bolide impact.
["Late Cretaceous"]
["Paleontology and Evolutionary Biology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

A new Heraclides swallowtail (Lepidoptera, Papilionidae) from North America is recognized by the pattern on its neck
Heraclides rumiko Shiraiwa & Grishin, sp. n. is described from southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America (type locality: USA, Texas, Duval County). It is closely allied to H. cresphontes (Cramer, 1777) and the two species are sympatric in central Texas. The new species is diagnosed by male genitalia and exhibits a nearly 3% difference from H. cresphontes in the COI DNA barcode sequence of mitochondrial DNA. The two Heraclides species can usually be told apart by the shape and size of yellow spots on the neck, by the wing shape, and the details of wing patterns. “Western Giant Swallowtail” is proposed as the English name for H. rumiko. To stabilize nomenclature, neotype for Papilio cresphontes Cramer, 1777, an eastern United States species, is designated from Brooklyn, New York, USA; and lectotype for Papilio thoas Linnaeus, 1771 is designated from Suriname. We sequenced DNA barcodes and ID tags of nearly 400 Papilionini specimens completing coverage of all Heraclides species. Comparative analyses of DNA barcodes, genitalia, and facies suggest that Heraclides oviedo (Gundlach, 1866), reinstated status, is a species-level taxon rather than a subspecies of H. thoas (Linnaeus, 1771); and H. pallas (G. Gray, [1853]), reinstated status, with its subspecies H. P. bajaensis (J. Brown & Faulkner, 1992), comb. n., and Heraclides anchicayaensis Constantino, Le Crom & Salazar, 2002, stat. n., are not conspecific with H. astyalus (Godart, 1819).

Description of 23 new species of the Exocelina ekari-group from New Guinea, with a key to all representatives of the species group (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Twenty three new species of Exocelina Broun, 1886 from New Guinea are described herein: E. bewaniensis sp. n., E. bismarckensis sp. n., E. craterensis sp. n., E. gorokaensis sp. n., E. herowana sp. n., E. jimiensis sp. n., E. kisli sp. n., E. ksionseki sp. n., E. lembena sp. n., E. mantembu sp. n., E. michaelensis sp. n., E. pinocchio sp. n., E. pseudoastrophallus sp. n., E. pseudobifida sp. n., E. pseudoedeltraudae sp. n., E. pseudoeme sp. n., E. sandaunensis sp. n., E. simbaiarea sp. n., E. skalei sp. n., E. tabubilensis sp. n., E. tariensis sp. n., E. vovai sp. n., and E. wannangensis sp. n. All of them have been found to belong to the E. ekari-group. An identification key to all known species of the group is provided, and important diagnostic characters (habitus, color, male antennae, protarsomeres 4–5, median lobes, and parameres) are illustrated. Data on the distribution of the new species and some already described species are given.
["Exocelina ekari-group"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Ninety-eight new species of Trigonopterus weevils from Sundaland and the Lesser Sunda Islands
The genus Trigonopterus Fauvel, 1862 is highly diverse in Melanesia. Only one species, Trigonopterus amphoralis Marshall, 1925 was so far recorded West of Wallace’s Line (Eastern Sumatra). Based on focused field-work the fauna from Sundaland (Sumatra, Java, Bali, Palawan) and the Lesser Sunda Islands (Lombok, Sumbawa, Flores) is here revised. We redescribe T. amphoralis Marshall and describe an additional 98 new species: T. acuminatus sp. n., T. aeneomicans sp. n., T. alaspurwensis sp. n., T. allopatricus sp. n., T. allotopus sp. n., T. angulicollis sp. n., T. argopurensis sp. n., T. arjunensis sp. n., T. asper sp. n., T. attenboroughi sp. n., T. baliensis sp. n., T. batukarensis sp. n., T. bawangensis sp. n., T. binodulus sp. n., T. bornensis sp. n., T. cahyoi sp. n., T. costipennis sp. n., T. cuprescens sp. n., T. cupreus sp. n., T. dacrycarpi sp. n., T. delapan sp. n., T. dentipes sp. n., T. diengensis sp. n., T. dimorphus sp. n., T. disruptus sp. n., T. dua sp. n., T. duabelas sp. n., T. echinatus sp. n., T. empat sp. n., T. enam sp. n., T. fissitarsis sp. n., T. florensis sp. n., T. foveatus sp. n., T. fulgidus sp. n., T. gedensis sp. n., T. halimunensis sp. n., T. honjensis sp. n., T. ijensis sp. n., T. javensis sp. n., T. kalimantanensis sp. n., T. kintamanensis sp. n., T. klatakanensis sp. n., T. lampungensis sp. n., T. latipes sp. n., T. lima sp. n., T. lombokensis sp. n., T. merubetirensis sp. n., T. mesehensis sp. n., T. micans sp. n., T. misellus sp. n., T. palawanensis sp. n., T. pangandaranensis sp. n., T. paraflorensis sp. n., T. pararugosus sp. n., T. parasumbawensis sp. n., T. pauxillus sp. n., T. payungensis sp. n., T. porcatus sp. n., T. pseudoflorensis sp. n., T. pseudosumbawensis sp. n., T. punctatoseriatus sp. n., T. ranakensis sp. n., T. relictus sp. n., T. rinjaniensis sp. n., T. roensis sp. n., T. rugosostriatus sp. n., T. rugosus sp. n., T. rutengensis sp. n., T. saltator sp. n., T. santubongensis sp. n., T. sasak sp. n., T. satu sp. n., T. schulzi sp. n., T. sebelas sp. n., T. sembilan sp. n., T. sepuluh sp. n., T. seriatus sp. n., T. serratifemur sp. n., T. setifer sp. n., T. silvestris sp. n., T. singkawangensis sp. n., T. singularis sp. n., T. sinuatus sp. n., T. squalidus sp. n., T. sumatrensis sp. n., T. sumbawensis sp. n., T. sundaicus sp. n., T. suturalis sp. n., T. syarbis sp. n., T. telagensis sp. n., T. tepalensis sp. n., T. tiga sp. n., T. trigonopterus sp. n., T. tujuh sp. n., T. ujungkulonensis sp. n., T. variolosus sp. n., T. vulcanicus sp. n., T. wallacei sp. n.. All new species are authored by the taxonomist-in-charge, Alexander Riedel. Most species belong to the litter fauna of primary wet evergreen forests. This habitat has become highly fragmented in the study area and many of its remnants harbor endemic species. Conservation measures should be intensified, especially in smaller and less famous sites to minimize the number of species threatened by extinction.
["Southeast Asia"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Contribution to the knowledge of seed-beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Bruchinae) in Xinjiang, China
Nineteen species of seed-beetles belonging to the subfamily Bruchinae (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) were collected in Xinjiang, China. Of these, the following four were new records for China: Bruchus affinis Frolich, 1799, B. atomarius L., 1761, B. loti Paykull, 1800 and Kytorhinus kergoati Delobel & Legalov, 2009. We provide an annotated checklist, illustrations and a key to the 19 species.

Systematic status of true katydids Sathrophyllia (Orthoptera, Tettigonioidea, Pseudophyllinae) from Pakistan, with description of two new species
The genus Sathrophyllia Stål, 1874 from Pakistan is reviewed with four species recorded. The diagnostic characters are given and two new species Sathrophyllia saeedi sp. n. and Sathrophyllia irshadi sp. n. are described. In addition to that Sathrophyllia nr. rugosa (Linnaeus, 1758) and Sathrophyllia femorata (Fabricius, 1787) are re-described. Further information on the distribution and ecology of the species is given and a key to studied species of Sathrophyllia is presented. Sathrophyllia femorata (Fabricius, 1787) and S. rugosa (Linnaeus, 1758) are recorded from Rawalakot (KPK) and Tharparker (Sindh), Pakistan for first the time.
["Sathrophyllia"]

Taxonomic study of the genus Halolaguna Gozmány (Lepidoptera, Lecithoceridae) from China, with descriptions of two new species
The genus Halolaguna Gozmány, 1978 is studied in China. Two new species, H. flabellata sp. n. from Guangxi and H. discoidea sp. n. from Chongqing, Guangxi and Sichuan are described. The female of H. guizhouensis Wu, 2012 is reported for the first time. Photographs of adults and genitalia are provided. A checklist of all known Halolaguna species is included, along with a key to the Chinese species.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Two new species of Myrmedonota Cameron (Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae) from Mexico
Two new species of Myrmedonota are described from Mexico. Illustrations and a distribution map are provided, as are keys to identify Myrmedonota known from the Nearctic and Neotropics. Specimens were collected by means of mercury vapor light traps or flight interception traps.
["Lomechusini"]

A new species of tiger beetle from southeastern Arizona and Mexico (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Cicindelini)
A new tiger beetle species, Cicindelidia melissa Duran & Roman, sp. n., of the tribe Cicindelini, is described from high elevation montane forests of southeastern Arizona and Mexico. It appears to be most closely related to C. nebuligera (Bates) but is distinguished on the basis of multiple morphological characters and geographic range. The new species is also superficially similar to the widespread C. sedecimpunctata (Klug), but distinguished on the basis of multiple morphological characters and habitat. Habitus, male and female reproductive structures, and known distribution map are presented.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Three species of Hitobia Kamura, 1992 (Araneae, Gnaphosidae) from south-west China
Two new species and one new record of the Hitobia are described from Gaoligong Mountains, Yunnan Province, China: Hitobia tengchong sp. n. (male), Hitobia hirtella sp. n. (male) and Hitobia makotoi Kamura, 2011. Distributional data and illustrations of body and copulatory organs are provided. The differences between the new species and their related species are discussed.
["Ground spider"]

Bembidion (?Nipponobembidion) ruruy sp. n., a new brachypterous ground beetle (Coleoptera, Carabidae) from Kunashir Island, Kuriles, Russia
A new species, Bembidion (?Nipponobembidion) ruruysp. n., is described from the foot of Ruruy Volcano, Kunashir Island, Kuril Archipelago, Russia. It is only the second consubgener, being characterized by the reduced wings, the rounded elytral shoulders, and the backward position of the posterior supra-orbital pore. In this connection, the subgenus Nipponobembidion Habu & Baba, 1968 is rediagnosed and both of its species are keyed. It might have originated from Plataphodes Ganglbauer, 1891, possibly in relation to volcanic activities in the region.
["Bembidion"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the Carabus (Archiplectes) satyrus Kurnakov, 1962, species complex in Abkhazia (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Carabini)
This study is based on a comparative analysis of extensive material of Carabus (Archiplectes) satyrus Kurnakov, 1962, its various forms and related taxa recently collected by the authors and some other collectors in Abkhazia. The status or specific affiliations of several subspecies are changed and a subspecies is described. Carabus (A.) besleticus Kurnakov, 1972, stat. n. is treated as a separate species housing six hitherto established subspecies in addition to the nominal type: C. (A.) besleticus mtsaranus Kurnakov, 1972, C. (A.) besleticus duripshensis Kurnakov, 1972, C. (A.) besleticus napraensis Belousov & Zamotajlov, 1993, C. (A.) besleticus dsychvensis Kurnakov, 1972, C. (A.) besleticus adzinbai Retezár, 2013, and C. (A.) besleticus resheviensissubsp. n.Carabus (A.) satyrus is treated as monotypical while the specific status of C. (A.) pseudopshuensis Zamotajlov, 1991, earlier proposed by Fominykh and Zamotajlov (2012), is confirmed based on the morphological and morphometric data.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Three new species of mygalomorph and filistatid spiders from Iran (Araneae, Cyrtaucheniidae, Nemesiidae and Filistatidae)
Three new spider species are described from Iran: Anemesia koponeni sp. n. (♂, Cyrtaucheniidae); Raveniola mazandaranica sp. n. (♂, Nemesiidae) and Sahastata sinuspersica sp. n. (♀, Filistatidae). Cyrtaucheniidae and Sahastata Benoit, 1968 are reported from Iran for the first time.
["Anemesia"]

Salmo kottelati, a new species of trout from Alakır Stream, draining to the Mediterranean in southern Anatolia, Turkey (Teleostei, Salmonidae)
Salmo kottelati sp. n., is described from Alakır Stream (Mediterranean basin) in Turkey. It is distinguished from other Anatolian Salmo species by a combination of the following characters (none unique to the species): general body colour greenish to silvery in life; 7–9 parr marks along lateral line; four dark bands on flank absent in both sexes; black ocellated spots few, present only on upper part of flank in individuals smaller than 160 mm SL but in larger both males and females black spots numerous and located on back and middle and upper part of flank; red spots few to numerous, scattered on median, and half of lower and upper part of flank; head long (length 29–33% SL in males, 26–32 in females); mouth large (length of mouth gape 13–19% SL in males, 12–15 in females); maxilla long (length 10–13% SL in males, 8–12 in females); 105–113 lateral line scales; 24–29 scale rows between lateral line and dorsal-fin origin, 17–19 scale rows between lateral line and anal-fin origin; 13–15 scales between lateral line and adipose-fin insertion.
["Advanced Sensor Technologies Research", "Scientific Measurement and Uncertainty Evaluation", "Engineering Diagnostics and Reliability"]

Circanota: a new genus of Sparganothini from the Neotropics, and its two new species (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)
Circanota, new genus, and its two new species, C. undulata sp. n. (type species), from Costa Rica and Panama, and C. simplex sp. n., from Panama and Ecuador, are described and illustrated. Although superficially similar to some species of Platynota Clemens, 1860, Circanota appears to be more closely related to members of a putative clade within Sparganothini defined by a slender crescent-shaped signum in the corpus bursae of the female genitalia. The most conspicuous autapomorphy for Circanota is the strongly undulate costa of the male and female forewing. Barcode sequence data (i.e., cytochrome oxidase I) from Circanota undulata (n = 12) form a tight cluster with exceedingly limited genetic divergence (less than 0.1%); specimens of C. simplex have not been sequenced. In neighbor-joining trees based on COI, Circanota is portrayed nearest Sparganothoides, which is consistent with morphological evidence.

Eucharitidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea), a family new to the fauna of Saudi Arabia, with the description of the previously unknown male of Eucharis (Psilogastrellus) affinis Bouček
The family Eucharitidae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) is recorded for the first time for the fauna of Saudi Arabia based on Hydrorhoa caffra (Westwood) and Eucharis (Psilogastrellus) affinis Bouček. The record of H. caffra suggests that Al-Baha and Asir provinces should be considered as part of the Afrotropical rather than the Palaearctic region. The previously unknown male of E. affinis Bouček is described and figured. Macrophotographs of the species are provided.
["Eucharitidae"]

Species delimitation using morphology, morphometrics, and molecules: definition of the Ophion scutellaris Thomson species group, with descriptions of six new species (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae)
The diverse genus Ophion is almost entirely undescribed in the Nearctic region. In this paper we define the Ophion scutellaris species group. This species group is well-supported by analysis of DNA (ITS2, COI, and 28S D2-D3) and morphology. It includes the Palearctic species O. scutellaris and the Nearctic species O. idoneus. An integrative analysis of DNA, geometric wing morphometrics, classical morphometrics and qualitative morphology indicates that this species group contains a minimum of seven species in North America, although the full diversity of the group has likely not been sampled. O. clave Schwarzfeld, sp. n., O. aureus Schwarzfeld, sp. n., O. brevipunctatus Schwarzfeld, sp. n., O. dombroskii Schwarzfeld, sp. n., O. keala Schwarzfeld, sp. n. and O. importunus Schwarzfeld, sp. n. are described, and a key to the known Nearctic species of the O. scutellaris group is provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Revision of the planthopper genus Nycheuma Fennah (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae)
Chinese species in the genus Nycheuma Fennah, 1964a (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Delphacidae: Delphacinae: Delphacini) are revised to include three species: N. cognatum (Muir, 1917), N. dimorpha (Matsumura, 1910) and N. nilotica Linnavuori, 1973. N. coctum Yang, 1989 is placed in synonymy with N. nilotica Linnavuori, 1973. N. dimorpha (Matsumura, 1910) is newly recorded from China. The generic characteristics are redefined. The main morphological characters, male genitalia of 3 species are described or redescribed and illustrated. A key to Chinese species in the genus is provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Virus Research Studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Four new species of the genus Saigona Matsumura (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Dictyopharidae) from China
Four new species of the genus Saigona Matsumura, 1910, S. anisomorpha Zheng, Yang & Chen, sp. n., S. daozhenensis Zheng, Yang & Chen, sp. n., S. dicondylica Zheng, Yang & Chen, sp. n. and S. tenuisa Zheng, Yang & Chen, sp. n., from China, are described and illustrated. A key to the species of Saigona is provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

A new genus and species of Thyasiridae (Mollusca, Bivalvia) from deep-water, Beaufort Sea, northern Alaska
Bivalve mollusk shells were collected in 2350 m depth in the Beaufort Sea, Arctic Ocean off northern Alaska. Initial identification suggested the specimens were a member of the bivalve family Thyasiridae, but no known eastern Pacific or Arctic living or fossil thyasirid resembled these deep-water specimens. Comparisons were made with the type of the genera Maorithyas Fleming, 1950, Spinaxinus Oliver & Holmes, 2006, Axinus Sowerby, 1821, and Parathyasira Iredale, 1930. We determined the Beaufort Sea species represents a new genus, herein described as Wallerconcha. These specimens also represent a new species, herein named Wallerconcha sarae. These new taxa are compared with known modern and fossil genera and species of thyasirds.
["Thyasiridae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A survey of linyphiid spiders from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China (Araneae, Linyphiidae)
Eight new genera and 30 new species are described: Cirrosus gen. n. (type species Cirrosus atrocaudatus sp. n. (♂♀)), Conglin gen. n. (type species Conglin personatus sp. n. (♀)), Curtimeticus gen. n. (type species Curtimeticus nebulosus sp. n. (♂)), Gladiata gen. n. (type species Gladiata fengli sp. n. (♂)), Glebala gen. n. (type species Glebala aspera sp. n. (♂)), Glomerosus gen. n. (type species Glomerosus lateralis sp. n. (♂)), Smerasia gen. n. (type species Smerasia obscurus sp. n. (♂♀)), Vittatus gen. n. (type species Vittatus fencha sp. n. (♂♀)); Batueta cuspidata sp. n. (♂♀), Capsulia laciniosa sp. n. (♂), Dactylopisthes separatus sp. n. (♀), Gongylidiellum bracteatum sp. n. (♀), Houshenzinus xiaolongha sp. n. (♂♀), Laogone bai sp. n. (♂), L. lunata sp. n. (♂♀), Maro bulbosus sp. n. (♀), Nasoonaria circinata sp. n. (♂♀), Neriene circifolia sp. n. (♂♀), Oedothorax biantu sp. n. (♀), Oilinyphia hengji sp. n. (♂♀), Paikiniana furcata sp. n. (♂♀), Parameioneta bishou sp. n. (♂♀), P. multifida sp. n. (♂♀), P. tricolorata sp. n. (♂♀), Tapinopa undata sp. n. (♂), Theoa bidentata sp. n. (♂♀), Theoa vesica sp. n. (♂♀), Vittatus bian sp. n. (♂♀), V. latus sp. n. (♂♀), V. pan sp. n. (♂♀). The male of Kaestneria bicultrata Chen & Yin, 2000 and the females of Asiagone perforata Tanasevitch, 2014 and Batueta similis Wunderlich & Song, 1995 are described for the first time; photos of Bathyphantes paracymbialis Tanasevitch, 2014 are provided.

Acariform mites (Acariformes) - permanent symbionts of Hapalomys delacouri Thomas (Rodentia, Muridae) in Vietnam
Two new species of parasitic acariform mites (Acariformes) are described from the Delacour’s marmoset rat Hapalomys delacouri Thomas (Rodentia: Muridae) in Vietnam: Afrolistrophorus (Afrolistrophorus) hapalomyssp. n. (Listrophoridae) and Radfordia (Radfordia) mirabilissp. n. (Myobiidae). Based on morphological evidences, we show that species of both mite genera associated with Hapalomys Blyth do not demonstrate clear phylogenetic links with respective congeners from rodents of the closest genus Chiropodomys Peters (Rodentia: Muridae).
["Acariformes"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Coleophora nepetellae Baldizzone & Nel, a new species of the C. lixella group (Lepidoptera, Coleophoridae) from France and Italy
Coleophora nepetellae Baldizzone & Nel, sp. n. is described from the southern Alps (Italy and France). It belongs to the Coleophora lixella species group. Its host plants are Nepeta nepetella L. (Lamiaceae) and an unidentified Poaceae. The fifth instar larva, its case, the adult habitus, and genitalia are illustrated. The species is compared to C. nevadella Baldizzone, 1985, here newly confirmed from France and whose larvae feed on Nepeta latifolia DC. in the Eastern Pyrénées. DNA barcodes are shown to be distinct and congruent with morphological differences among species of the lixella group. Barcodes revealed that C. tricolor Walsingham, 1889, formerly known only from Great Britain, is also present in France and Greece.
["Coleophora"]

Diversity, distribution and biology of Romanian flat-footed flies (Diptera, Opetiidae and Platypezidae) with taxonomic notes on Callomyia saibhira Chandler
Altogether 18 species of the families Opetiidae and Platypezidae are reported from Romania, based on newly studied material and previously published records. The following three species are recorded from Romania for the first time: Agathomyia vernalis Shatalkin, 1981, Callomyia saibhira Chandler, 1976, and Lindneromyia hungarica Chandler, 2001. The presented differential diagnosis and a detailed redescription of body and genitalia of the male of Callomyia saibhira are based on one specimen which is the first male found in Europe. Information about distribution and biology of all 18 Romanian species is provided as well as photographs of selected important species. Finally, a new checklist of all Romanian species is given.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the plant bug genus Xenocylapidius (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae, Cylapinae), with descriptions of five new species from Australia and New Caledonia
The genus Xenocylapidius Gorczyca, 1997 is revised. Five new species: Xenocylapidius acutipennis sp. n., X. ater sp. n., X. bimaculatus sp. n., X. gemellus sp. n., and X. rolandi sp. n. are described from Australia and New Caledonia. Illustrations of the male genitalia, color photographs of dorsal and lateral views of the adults of all species, and key to species of the genus Xenocylapidius are provided.

Molecular and morphological differentiation between Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera, Aphididae) and related species, with particular reference to the North American Midwest
The cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, is one of the most biologically diverse species of aphids; a polyphagous species in a family where most are host specialists. It is economically important and belongs to a group of closely related species that has challenged aphid taxonomy. The research presented here seeks to clarify the taxonomic relationships and status of species within the A. gossypii group in the North American Midwest. Sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 (COI), nuclear elongation factor 1-α (EF1-α), and nuclear sodium channel para-type (SCP) genes were used to differentiate between A. gossypii and related species. Aphis monardae, previously synonymised with A. gossypii, is re-established as a valid species. Phylogenetic analyses support the close relationship of members of the A. gossypii group native to North America (A. forbesi, A. monardae, A. oestlundi, A. rubifolii, and A. rubicola), Europe (A. nasturtii, A. urticata and A. sedi), and Asia (A. agrimoniae, A. clerodendri, A. glycines, A. gossypii, A. hypericiphaga, A. ichigicola, A. ichigo, A. sanguisorbicola, A. sumire and A. taraxicicola). The North American species most closely related to A. gossypii are A. monardae and A. oestlundi. The cosmopolitan A. gossypii and A. sedi identified in the USA are genetically very similar using COI and EF1-α sequences, but the SCP gene shows greater genetic distance between them. We present a discussion of the biological and morphological differentiation of these species.
["Aphid"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

A new species of Halicyclops (Copepoda, Cyclopoida, Cyclopidae) from a lagoon system of the Caribbean coast of Colombia
Plankton samples obtained from the lagoon system Laguna Navío Quebrado, in northern Colombia, yielded male and female specimens of an undescribed cyclopoid copepod of the genus Halicyclops. The new species belongs to the highly diverse and widely distributed thermophilus-complex. It closely resembles H. clarkei Herbst, 1982 from Louisiana and H. bowmani Rocha & Iliffe, 1993 from Bermuda. These species share the same armature of P1-P4EXP3, with a 3443 spine formula and the terminal antennary segment with 5 setae. However, H. gaviriai sp. n. can be separated from both H. clarkei and H. bowmani by the morphology of the anal pseudoperculum, the proportions of the fourth antennulary segment, the length of the inner basipodal spine of P1, the P1EXP/inner basipodal spine inner length ratio and the length/width ratio of the caudal rami. This is the third species of Halicyclops recorded from Colombia and the first one described from this country. With the addition of H. gaviriai sp. n., the number of species of Halicyclops known from the Neotropics increases to 19. The regional diversity of the genus is probably underestimated.
["Brackish waters"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

The millipede genus Eviulisoma Silvestri, 1910 in Kenya, with descriptions of new species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The genus Eviulisoma, the largest among Afrotropical Paradoxosomatidae, currently encompasses 36 species or subspecies, including six new from Kenya: E. ngaia sp. n., E. ngaiaorum sp. n., E. taitaorum sp. n., E. taita sp. n., E. kirimeri sp. n. and E. kakamega sp. n. In addition, E. alluaudi Brolemann, 1920 and E. silvestre (Carl, 1909) are recorded for the first time beyond their type localities in Kenya and Tanzania, respectively, based on new material from Kenya. A key is given to all ten species of the genus presently reported from Kenya.

Lithobius (Monotarsobius) zhangi sp. n., a new species from Eastern China (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
Lithobius (Monotarsobius) zhangisp. n. (Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae), recently discovered from Nanshan Park, Yantai City, Shandong Province, and Wuyishan County, Nanping City, Fujian Province, from China, is described. Morphologically it resembles L. (M.) songi Pei, Ma, Shi, Wu, Zhou, 2011 from Province Hebei, China, but can be readily distinguished from the latter by antennae composed of 15+15–19+19 articles versus 19+19–21+21 articles, terminal claw of female gonopods inner tooth broader than the outer vs dorsal and ventral tooth about same in size, ventral plectrotaxy 01320, dorsal plectrotaxy 10210 in the 14th legs, 01210 and 10200 respectively in L. (M.) songi. A key to the Lithobius (Monotarsobius) species of China and Korea is presented.
["Lithobiidae"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Review of Gasteruption Latreille (Hymenoptera, Gasteruptiidae) from Iran and Turkey, with the description of 15 new species
The genus Gasteruption Latreille, 1796 (Hymenoptera: Evanioidea: Gasteruptiidae: Gasteruptiinae) from North Iran and Turkey is revised, keyed and fully illustrated for the first time. In total 36 species are treated of which 33 are recorded from Turkey and 23 from Iran. Fifteen species are new for science: Gasteruption aciculatum van Achterberg, sp. n., G. agrenum van Achterberg, sp. n., G. brevibasale van Achterberg & Saure, sp. n., G. coriacoxale van Achterberg, sp. n., G. flavimarginatum van Achterberg, sp. n., G. heminitidum van Achterberg, sp. n., G. henseni van Achterberg, sp. n., G. ischnolaimum van Achterberg, sp. n., G. nigrapiculatum van Achterberg, sp. n., G. paglianoi van Achterberg & Saure, sp. n., G. pseudolaticeps van Achterberg, sp. n., G. punctifrons van Achterberg, sp. n., G. schmideggeri van Achterberg & Saure, sp. n., G. scorteum van Achterberg, sp. n. and G. smitorum van Achterberg, sp. n. Twenty-one species are reported new for Turkey and 16 species new for Iran. Fifteen new synonyms are proposed: Foenus terrestris Tournier, 1877, Gasteruption trifossulatum Kieffer, 1904, and G. ignoratum Kieffer, 1912, of G. caucasicum (Guérin-Méneville, 1844); G. daisyi Alekseev, 1993, of G. dolichoderum Schletterer, 1889; Gasteruption assectator var. nitidulum Schletterer, 1885, of G. freyi (Tournier, 1877); G. schossmannae Madl, 1987, of G. hastator (Fabricius, 1804); Gasteryption fallaciosum Semenov, 1892, G. dubiosum Semenov, 1892 and G. obsoletum Semenov, 1892, of Gasteruption insidiosum Semenov, 1892; Gasteryption schewyrewi Semenov, 1892, of Gasteruption jaculator (Linnaeus, 1758); Gasteruption floreum Szépligeti, 1903, of G. lugubre Schletterer, 1889; G. trichotomma Kieffer, 1904, and G. palaestinum Pic, 1916, of G. merceti Kieffer, 1904; Gasteryption foveiceps Semenov, 1892, of Gasteruption nigrescens Schletterer, 1885, and Gasteruption libanense Pic, 1916, of G. syriacum Szépligeti, 1903. Gasteruption lugubre Schletterer, 1889, is recognised as a valid species. Lectotypes are designated for Ichneumon assectator Linnaeus, 1758; I. jaculator Linnaeus, 1758; Foenus terrestris Tournier, 1877; F. freyi Tournier, 1877; F. nigripes Tournier, 1877; F. goberti Tournier, 1877; F. granulithorax Tournier, 1877; F. minutus Tournier, 1877; F. borealis Thomson, 1883; Faenus diversipes Abeille de Perrin, 1879; F. rugulosus Abeille de Perrin, 1879; F. obliteratus Abeille de Perrin, 1879; F. undulatum Abeille de Perrin, 1879; F. variolosus Abeille de Perrin, 1879; Gasteruption distinguendum Schletterer, 1885; G. laeviceps Schletterer, 1885; G. thomsonii Schletterer, 1885; G. foveolatum Schletterer, 1889; G. sowae Schletterer, 1901; G. foveolum Szépligeti, 1903; G. floreum Szépligeti, 1903; G. caudatum Szépligeti, 1903; G. syriacum Szépligeti, 1903; G. merceti Kieffer, 1904 and G. ignoratum Kieffer, 1912. A neotype is designated for Gasteruption tournieri Schletterer, 1885.
["Revision"]

Preliminary survey of a nemertean crab egg predator, Carcinonemertes, on its host crab, Callinectes arcuatus (Decapoda, Portunidae) from Golfo de Nicoya, Pacific Costa Rica
The possible presence of egg predators in brood masses of portunid crabs from Pacific Central America has not been studied yet. This survey reports the finding of a nemertean crab egg predator on the portunid crab, Callinectes arcuatus, from the Golfo de Nicoya, Pacific Costa Rica. Nemerteans were found in the egg masses of 26 out of the 74 crabs for a prevalence of 35%. The intensity (mean number of worms/ infected crab) was estimated to be 18 with a variance of 1–123 worms/infected crab. No nemerteans were observed either in the 19 C. arcuatus from Golfo Dulce (southern Pacific coast) and the 10 Portunus asper from Herradura-Jaco (central Pacific coast). This nemertean is a member of the genus Carcinonemertes, which has been reported from the Caribbean coast of Panama. However, the encountered Carcinonemertes sp. is the first published finding and report from Costa Rica and Pacific Central America.
["Callinectes"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Cassava research and cyanide"]

Multiple parasitic crustacean infestation on belonid fish Strongylura strongylura
Simultaneous multiple infestation of parasitic crustacean species involving a cymothoid isopod, Cymothoa frontalis Milne Edward, 1840 and four species of copepods such as Lernanthropus tylosuri Richiardi, 1880, Caligodes lacinatus Kroyer, 1863, Bomolochus bellones Burmeister, 1833 and Dermoergasilus coleus Cressey & Collette, 1970 was frequently noticed on spot-tail needlefish, Strongylura strongylura (Belonidae) captured from the Malabar coast (Kerala, India) during the period from April 2011 to March 2012. All the 43 fishes (Strongylura strongylura) collected, were under the hyper-infection with parasitic crustaceans; a total of 388 parasitic crustaceans including 57 C. frontalis, 252 L. tylosuri, 31 C. lacinatus, 24 B. bellones and 32 D. coleus were recovered from the host fish. 4 members (9.30%) of host fish were under quadruple parasitism, in two different combinations. Seventeen (39.53%) host fishes showed triple parasitism and 20 (46.51%) members exhibited double parasitism, with four and five parasitic combinations respectively. Remaining two (4.65%) fishes were parasitized only by the copepod, L. tylosuri. The infestations by all recovered parasitic crustaceans were highly site specific. The damage caused by the parasitic crustaceans was also discussed.
["Isopod"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasites and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Inferring population connectivity across the range of distribution of the stiletto shrimp Artemesia longinaris Spence Bate, 1888 (Decapoda, Penaeidae) from DNA barcoding: implications for fishery management
Artemesia longinaris is a marine shrimp endemic to the southwestern Atlantic and distributed from Atafona, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) to Rawson, Chubut (Argentina). In recent years, this species has become an important target of the commercial fishery as a consequence of the decline in the fishery of more traditional and profitable marine shrimps. In addition, phenotypic variations have been documented in populations along its distribution. Therefore, investigations on the genetics of the fishing stocks are necessary for the development of sustainable management strategies and for understanding the possible sources of these variations. The mitochondrial gene Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) was used to search for evidence of genetic structure among the populations of A. longinaris and to analyze the phylogenetic relationships among them. A total of 60 specimens were collected from seven different localities, covering its geographical range. The final alignment showed 53 haplotypes (48 individuals and 5 shared), with no biogeographical pattern. The low genetic divergence found, with a non-significant FST value, also suggests the absence of population structure for this gene. These findings indicate a continuous gene flow among the populations analyzed, suggesting that the phenotypic variation is a consequence of different environmental conditions among the localities.
["Cytochrome Oxidase I"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Embryo production in the sponge-dwelling snapping shrimp Synalpheus apioceros (Decapoda, Alpheidae) from Bocas del Toro, Panama
Caridean shrimps of the genus Synalpheus are abundant and widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, but knowledge of their reproductive biology remains scarce. We report reproductive traits of Synalpheus apioceros from Bocas del Toro, Panama, based on collections in August 2011. The 46 ovigerous females that were analyzed ranged in size from 3.8 to 7.4 mm in carapace length. Fecundity varied between 8 and 310 embryos and increased with female size. Females invested 18.6 ± 10.3% of their body weight in Embryo production. Embryo volume increased considerably (77.2%) during embryogenesis, likely representing water uptake near the end of incubation period. Compared to Synalpheus species with abbreviated or direct development, S. apioceros produced substantially smaller embryos; however, S. apioceros seems to have a prolonged larval phase with at least five zoeal stages, which may explain the combination of relatively small and numerous embryos. We did not find nonviable, minute, chalky embryos, previously reported for S. apioceros specimens obtained from the northwestern Gulf of Mexico, which supports the hypothesis that the production of this type of embryos may be a physiological response of this warm-water species to the temperature decrease near to its latitudinal range limit.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Aquaculture Nutrition and Growth", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Inferences on mating and sexual systems of two Pacific Cinetorhynchus shrimps (Decapoda, Rhynchocinetidae) based on sexual dimorphism in body size and cheliped weaponry
Sexual dimorphism in body size and weaponry was examined in two Cinetorhynchus shrimp species in order to formulate hypotheses on their sexual and mating systems. Collections of C. sp. A and C. sp. B were made in March, 2011 on Coconut Island, Hawaii, by hand dipnetting and minnow traps in coral rubble bottom in shallow water. Although there is overlap in male and female size, some males are much larger than females. The major (pereopod 1) chelipeds of males are significantly larger and longer than those of females. In these two Cinetorhynchus species, males and females have third maxillipeds of similar relative size, i.e., those of males are not hypertrophied and probably not used as spear-like weapons as in some other rhynchocinetid (Rhynchocinetes) species. Major chelae of males vary with size, changing from typical female-like chelae tipped with black corneous stout setae to subchelate or prehensile appendages in larger males. Puncture wounds or regenerating major chelipeds were observed in 26.1 % of males examined (N = 38 including both species). We interpret this evidence on sexual dimorphism as an indication of a temporary male mate guarding or “neighborhoods of dominance” mating system, in which larger dominant robustus males defend females and have greater mating success than smaller males. Fecundity of females increased with female size, as in most caridean species (500–800 in C. sp. A; 300–3800 in C. sp. B). Based on the sample examined, we conclude that these two species have a gonochoric sexual system (separate sexes) like most but not all other rhynchocinetid species in which the sexual system has been investigated.
["Fecundity"]

Morphological variation of freshwater crabs Zilchiopsis collastinensis and Trichodactylus borellianus (Decapoda, Trichodactylidae) among localities from the middle Paraná River basin during different hydrological periods
Measures of hydrologic connectivity have been used extensively to describe spatial connections in riverine landscapes. Hydrologic fluctuations constitute an important macrofactor that regulates other environmental variables and can explain the distribution and abundance of organisms. We analysed morphological variations among individuals of two freshwater crab species, Zilchiopsis collastinensis and Trichodactylus borellianus, from localities of the middle Paraná River basin during two phases of the local hydrological regime. Specimens were sampled at sites (localities) of Paraná River, Saladillo Stream, Salado River and Coronda River when water levels were falling and rising. The conductivity, pH, temperature and geographical coordinates were recorded at each site. The dorsal cephalothorax of each crab was represented using 16 landmarks for Z. collastinensis and 14 landmarks for T. borellianus. The Canonical Variate Analyses showed differences in shape (for both species) among the crabs collected from the Paraná and Salado Rivers during the two hydrologic phases. We did not find a general distribution pattern for shape among the crab localities. During falling water, the shapes of Z. collastinensis were not related to latitude-longitude gradient (i.e., showing greater overlap in shape), while during rising water the shapes were ordered along a distributional gradient according to geographical location. Contrary, shapes of T. borellianus were related to latitude-longitude during falling water and were not related to distributional gradient during rising water. The cephalothorax shape showed, in general, no statistically significant covariations with environmental variables for either species. These results show that each freshwater crab species, from different localities of the middle Paraná River, remain connected; however, these connections change throughout the hydrologic regime of the floodplain system. This study was useful for delineating how the relation among shapes of crabs of localities varies during two phases of the hydrological regime and for estimating the connections and geographical patterns in the floodplain system.
["Geometric morphometrics"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Relative growth and morphological sexual maturity size of the freshwater crab Trichodactylus borellianus (Crustacea, Decapoda, Trichodactylidae) in the Middle Paraná River, Argentina
The relative growth of a number of morphological dimensions of the South American freshwater crab Trichodactylus borellianus (Trichodactylidae) were compared and related to sexual dimorphism. Crabs were collected from ponds in the Middle Paraná River in Argentina. A regression model with segmented relationship was used to test for relative growth between these measurements where breakpoints infer the body size at which crabs reach sexual maturity. In both sexes the carapace width and the length, height, and thickness of the right and left chelae were measured, as well as the male pleopod length and the female abdomen width. All of these measurements were found to show positive allometry with the exception of the male pleopod length and the left chelae, which did not show a breakpoint. In females the breakpoint for the abdomen width inferred a morphological sexual maturity at carapace width 6.9 mm. In males the break point for the pleopod length was at carapace width 6.6 mm, with that for the chelae measurements was between carapace widths 6.4 and 6.9 mm. The relative growth pattern in T. borellianus was found to be similar to that recorded for other species of the family Trichodactylidae.
["Chelipeds"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Molecular and morphological differentiation between two Miocene-divergent lineages of Amazonian shrimps, with the description of a new species (Decapoda, Palaemonidae, Palaemon)
Palaemon carteri (Gordon, 1935) and P. ivonicus (Holthuis, 1950) are morphologically similar species of South American freshwater shrimps. Past studies have questioned the taxonomic status of both species, which are supposed to have partially sympatric geographic distributions in the Amazon basin. We analyzed a 550 bp fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene from these Amazonian Palaemon species as well as from 11 palaemonids as the outgroup. Additionally, we checked diagnostic characters of the genus and family as well as other morphological characters that have been little explored before. Palaemon carteri and P. ivonicus are allocated in two sister lineages, with wide genetic divergence and little morphological differentiation. The divergence time between these lineages was estimated as approximately 10 million years ago. Both molecular and morphological data support the taxonomic validity of both Palaemon carteri and P. ivonicus, refuting the hypothesis of synonymy. In addition, a new species, Palaemon yuna sp. n., closely related to P. ivonicus, is described. Our findings indicate that these species can be differentiated using the projection of the anterolateral margin and anterolateral spine of the first antennular segment, shape of the rostrum, and relative size of the appendix masculina.
["Amazon basin"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Crustaceans from antipatharians on banks of the northwestern Gulf of Mexico
The stalked barnacle Oxynaspis gracilis, the chirostylid squat lobster Uroptychus sp., and the caridean shrimps Periclimenes cf. antipathophilus and Pseudopontonides principis have been collected at 68–124 m by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) on banks in the northern Gulf of Mexico. These species inhabited six species of antipatharian hosts. Pseudopontonides principis, O. gracilis, and U. sp. were not confined to a single host species. Except for O. gracilis, collected by ROV in 2004–2005, these species have not been reported previously in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico.
["Anomura"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A new species of the genus Nihonotrypaea Manning & Tamaki, 1998 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Axiidea, Callianassidae) from the South China Sea
A new species of the genus Nihonotrypaea Manning & Tamaki, 1998, N. hainanensis sp. n., collected from the South China Sea, is described and illustrated. It is distinguishable from N. harmandi (Bouvier, 1901), N. japonica (Ortmann, 1891), N. thermophila Lin, Komai & Chan, 2007 and N. makarovi Martin, 2013 by having the elongated carpus of the male and female major cheliped. The new species is distinguishable from N. petalura (Stimpson, 1860) by the proximolower margin of the carpus of the male major cheliped bearing several small denticles.
["Callianassidae"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Genetic utility of natural history museum specimens: endangered fairy shrimp (Branchiopoda, Anostraca)
We examined the potential utility of museum specimens as a source for genetic analysis of fairy shrimp. Because of loss of their vernal pool habitat, some fairy shrimp (including Branchinecta sandiegonensis and B. lynchi) are listed as threatened or endangered in Southern California by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Management of those species requires extensive population genetics studies and the resolution of important genetic complexity (e.g. possible hybridization between endangered and non-endangered species). Regulations mandating deposition of specimens of listed species have resulted in thousands of specimens accessioned into the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County that have been preserved in a variety of solutions. We subsampled those specimens, as well as other Anostraca with known collection and preservation histories, to test their potential for genetic analysis by attempting DNA extraction and amplification for mt16SrDNA. Fixation and preservation in not denatured ethanol had a far greater sequencing success rate than other (and unknown) fixatives and preservatives. To maximize scientific value we recommend field preservation in 95% not denatured ethanol (or, if pure ethanol is unavailable, high-proof drinking spirits, e.g. Everclear™, or 151 proof white rum), followed by storage in 95% not denatured ethanol.
["Museum specimens"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

On the Domene species of China, with descriptions of four new species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
Material of the paederine genus Domene Fauvel, 1873 from China is examined. Nine species were identified, four of them described previously, one unnamed (represented exclusively by females), and four are newly described: D. cultrata sp. n. (Gansu, Hubei, Shaanxi); D. cuspidata sp. n. (Gansu, Shaanxi, Sichuan); D. chenae sp. n. (Guangxi); D. reducta sp. n. (Sichuan). A lectotype is designated for Domene reitteri Koch, 1939; a neotype is designated for Domene chenpengi Li, 1990. Domene dersuuzalai Gusarov, 1992 is placed in synonymy with D. chenpengi. Previous records of two Japanese species from China are most likely based on misidentifications and considered erroneous. Thus, the Domene fauna of China is currently composed of twelve described species. A key to the Domene species of China is provided. The distributions of eleven species are mapped.

Description of six new species of Lycocerus Gorham (Coleoptera, Cantharidae), with taxonomic note and new distribution data of some other species
Six new species of Lycocerus Gorham are described, L. gracilicornis sp. n. (China: Sichuan), L. longihirtus sp. n. (China: Yunnan), L. sichuanus sp. n. (China: Sichuan), L. hubeiensis sp. n. (China: Hubei), L. napolovi sp. n. (Vietnam: Sa Pa) and L. quadrilineatus sp. n. (Vietnam: Sa Pa), and provided with illustrations of habitus, antennae and aedeagi of male or and antennae, abdominal sternites VIII and genitalia of female. L. rubroniger Švihla, 2011 is synonymized with L. obscurus Pic, 1916. L. hickeri Pic, 1934 and L. obscurus are provided with illustrations of abdominal sternites VIII of female. Nine species are recorded from China for the first time, L. bicoloripennis (Pic, 1924), L. caliginostus Gorham, 1889, L. jendeki Švihla, 2005, L. malaisei (Wittmer, 1995), L. obscurus, L. olivaceus (Wittmer, 1995), L. purpureus Kazantsev, 2007, L. ruficornis (Wittmer, 1995) and L. semiextensus (Wittmer, 1995), and L. ruficornis is also recorded for Myanmar for the first time.

Three new species of the myrmecophilous genus Doryloxenus from China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Three new species of the pygostenine genus Doryloxenus Wasmann, viz., D. aenictophilus sp. n. (from Zhejiang), D. tangliangi sp. n. (from Zhejiang), and D. songzhigaoi sp. n. (from Yunnan), are described, illustrated and distinguished from the Asian congeners. An identification key to the Chinese species is given.
["Pygostenini"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Afrotropical Ophioninae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae): an update of Gauld and Mitchell’s revision, including two new species and an interactive matrix identification key
The revision of the Afrotropical Ophioninae is updated, based on the examination of about 800–900 individuals in the South African and European museum collections. A robust interactive matrix key was built to provide quick and reliable identifications. The key is available online at http://www.waspweb.org. Two new species are described: Dicamptus maxipol sp. n. and Enicospilus gauldetmitchellorum sp. n. Numerous new distribution and biological records are provided, and noticeable morphological intra-specific variations are detailed. Enicospilus batus Gauld & Mitchell, syn. n. is considered as a junior synonym of E. luebberti (Enderlein).

Micromyzus platycerii sp. n. (Hemiptera, Aphididae) – a new fern-feeding aphid species from Thailand
A new fern-feeding aphid species, Micromyzus platycerii, collected in Sakaerat Research Station in Thailand, is described.
["Sakaerat Research Station"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Description of Parvocalanus leei sp. n. (Copepoda, Calanoida, Paracalanidae) in Western Korea, with comments on the taxonomic position of Paracalanus arabiensis Kesarkar & Anil, 2010
A new species of paracalanid calanoid copepod Parvocalanus leei sp. n., is described from specimens collected in shallow waters of Western Korea. The new species is closely similar to Parvocalanus arabiensis (Kesarkar & Anil, 2010), P. crassirostris (F. Dahl, 1894), P. latus Andronov, 1972, and P. scotti (Früchtl, 1923) in having two short terminal spines on the distal segment of the fifth leg and a similar rostrum in the female, but can be readily distinguished from its congeners by the body size, relative length of antennules, segmentation of endopod of leg 1, and pattern of ornamentation of spinules on legs 1 to 4 in the female. The taxonomic position of Parvocalanus arabiensis and the validity of the genus Parvocalanus Andronov, 1970 are also discussed.

The family Carabodidae (Acari, Oribatida) VIII. The genus Machadocepheus (first part) Machadocepheus leoneae sp. n. and Machadocepheus rachii sp. n. from Gabon
The genus Machadocepheus, being one of the more complex genera of the Carabodidae family, is briefly outlined to demonstrate this complexity. Descriptions of two new species from Gabon, M. leoneae sp. n. and M. rachii sp. n. are given.
["Carabodidae"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

A new species of Hemibrycon (Characiformes, Characidae) from the upper San Juan River drainage, Pacific versant, Colombia
Hemibrycon sanjuanensis, new species, is described from the upper San Juan River drainage, Pacific versant, Colombia. It is distinguished from H. boquiae, H. brevispini, H. cairoense, H. colombianus, H. mikrostiktos, H. metae, H. palomae, H. rafaelense and H. tridens by the presence of a circular or oblong humeral spot that is located two scales posterior to the opercle (vs. 3–4 scales in H. palomae, H. rafaelense, H. brevispini and H. cairoense, and 0–1 scales, in H. metae and H. boquiae). It further differs from H. colombianus in having a round or oblong humeral spot (vs. rectangular). It differs from H. beni, H. dariensis, H. divisorensis, H. helleri, H. huambonicus, H. inambari, H. jabonero, H. jelskii, H. mikrostiktos, H. polyodon, H. quindos, H. raqueliae, H. santamartae, H. surinamensis, H. taeniurus, H. tridens, and H. yacopiae in having melanophores on the posterior margins of the scales along the sides of body (vs. lacking melanophores on margins of scales along entire length of the sides of body). The new species differs from all congeners mentioned above in having, among other features, six teeth in the outer premaxillary row arranged in a straight line (vs. five or fewer teeth not arranged in straight line except H. cairoense with two to six teeth in the outer premaxillary row).

Du’an Karst of Guangxi: a kingdom of the cavernicolous genus Dongodytes Deuve (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae)
Recent cave biodiversity surveys carried out in Du’an County and its adjacent areas of northwestern Guangxi, China, have revealed some exciting scientific findings. In a very limited area seven new species of the cavernicolous trechine genus Dongodytes Deuve, 1993 were found and are described: Dongodytes (s. str.) elongatussp. n., D. (s. str.) troglodytessp. n., D. (s. str.) lanisp. n., D. (Dongodytodes) brevipenissp. n., D. (Dongodytodes) jinzhuensissp. n., D. (Dongodytodes) inexpectatussp. n. and D. (Dongodytodes) yaophilussp. n. Diagnoses and notes on the genus, subgenera, and two known species in Du’an Karst, Dongodytes (s. str.) baxian Tian, 2011 and D. (Dongodytodes) deharvengi Tian, 2011, are also given. A key to subgenera and all species of Dongodytes is provided. To date, Dongodytes becomes one of the richest in species genera of subterranean carabid trechines in China with 12 species which are arranged into two subgenera. Dongodytes (s. str.) Deuve is composed of seven species, four of which from Du’an County, each of other three from Bama, Fengshan and Tian’e Counties, respectively. All species of the subgenus Dongodytodes Tian, 2011 are recorded from Du’an Karst. By having 10 species (nine Dongodytes and one Libotrechus Uéno, 1998), Du’an Karst holds the richest specific diversity of cavernicolous Trechinae in China. Dongodytes species are distributed in a very limited area of the river Hongshui He drainages in northwestern Guangxi, and the river acts as a natural barrier of Dongodytes dispersal at only a specific level. However, all members of Dongodytodes are recorded from the eastern or northern bank of Hongshui He.
["Ground beetles"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

The first sexual associations in the genus Darditilla Casal, 1965 (Hymenoptera, Mutillidae)
New sex associations are proposed for four species of Darditilla: D. amabilis (Gerstaecker, 1874); D. bejaranoi Casal, 1968; D. debilis (Gerstaecker, 1874); and D. felina (Burmeister, 1854). Darditilla botija Casal, 1965, syn. n. is the male of D. amabilis; the other three males were previously unknown. Mutilla decorosa Kohl, 1882, syn. n. is conspecific with D. felina. Descriptions and extended diagnoses are provided for previously unknown males and for females that were not adequately described. These represent the first sex associations for the genus Darditilla.
["Sphaeropthalminae"]

The Australian millipede Dicranogonus pix Jeekel, 1982 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae): a species with and without paranota
Dicranogonus pix Jeekel, 1982 occurs in Victoria and Tasmania, Australia, including the islands in eastern Bass Strait between the two States. There is only slight gonopod variation across this range, but D. pix populations with and without paranota are separated in Bass Strait by the ca 50 km-wide gap between the Kent and Furneaux Groups of islands.

A review of myrmecophilous mites of the family Microdispidae (Acari, Heterostigmatina) of Western Siberia
Five species of myrmecophilous microdispid mites (Acari: Microdispidae) are recorded from Western Siberia, Russia. Unguidispus lasii Kurosa, 1979, U. japonicus Kurosa, 1979, Caesarodispus minutus (Sevastianov, 1981), and C. samsinaki (Mahunka, 1967), comb. n. are reported from Russia for the first time. Unguidispus polyctenus (Sevastianov, 1969) and Caesarodispus samsinaki are redescribed. The keys to species of the genera Unguidispus Mahunka, 1970 and Caesarodispus Mahunka, 1977 are provided.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

The mermithid species Isomermis lairdi (Nematoda, Mermithidae), previously only known in Africa, found in Europe
The present work contributs to the knowledge on the aquatic mermithids (Nematoda, Mermithidae) occurring in black flies – an insufficiently studied group of parasitic nematodes. Isomermis lairdi Mondet, Poinar & Bernadou, 1977, described from larvae of Simulium damnosum Theobald, 1903 in Western Africa, is reported to occur in Bulgaria. The species was isolated from larvae of Simulium ornatum Meigen, 1818 in a local population of simuliids in a mountain stream near Jeleznitsa Village, Sofia district. Postparasitic juveniles of mermithids were obtained from the hosts and reared to the adult stage. The species was identified by morphological and morphometrical characters of postparasitic juveniles, and of male and female individuals. In the summer of 2012 a relatively high rate of mermithid infection in a local host population was detected (prevalence up to 44.1%). In August of the next year host abundance had considerably declined and other simuliid species, S. variegatum Meigen, 1818 and S. reptans (Linnaeus, 1758), predominated in the investigated locality. In West Africa, I. lairdi is considered to be a potential biological agent for reducing the population density of the S. damnosum complex – the main vector of human onchocerciasis. In Europe, species of the S. ornatum complex are among the vectors of onchocerciasis of cattle and deer. The mermithids presumably play a certain role in the epidemiology of these diseases. A brief discussion on the taxonomy of the genus Isomermis Coman, 1953, and of the feasibility of molecular methods in mermithid taxonomy is provided. The species I. lairdi is reported for the first time from Europe.
["Entomoparasitic nematodes"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A new species of redfin (Teleostei, Cyprinidae, Pseudobarbus) from the Verlorenvlei River system, South Africa
Pseudobarbus verloreni, a new species, is described from material collected in the Verlorenvlei River system on the west coast of South Africa. It differs from its congeners (except P. skeltoni, P. burchelli, and P. burgi) by the presence of two pairs of oral barbels. Pseudobarbus verloreni sp. n. can be distinguished from the three currently described double barbeled Pseudobarbus species by the following combination of characters: pigment pattern, generally deeper body relative to standard length, a longer intestine associated with the deeper body form, shorter snout relative to head length, and much shorter anterior barbels relative to head length. The new species is distinguished from P. burgi in the neighbouring Berg River system by its longer head and longer pre-dorsal length. It seems as if Pseudobarbus verloreni sp. n. has been extirpated from the Langvlei River system and face several threats to its survival in the Verlorenvlei River system.
["Freshwater fish"]

A new species of Cyphomyia Wiedemann from the Dominican Republic with a key to Caribbean species of the genus (Diptera, Stratiomyidae, Clitellariinae)
A new species of Cyphomyia Wiedemann, C. baoruco sp. n., is described from the Dominican Republic. A key to the species of Cyphomyia known from the Caribbean islands is provided.
["Neotropical Region"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Review of Afrotropical Figitinae (Figitidae, Cynipoidea, Hymenoptera) with the first records of Neralsia and Lonchidia for the region
The cynipoid subfamily Figitinae is poorly represented in the Afrotropical region with two genera (Figites Latreille and Xyalophora Kieffer) and six species currently known. Here we record an additional two genera (Neralsia Cameron and Lonchidia Thomson) for the region and describe three new species: Neralsia haddocki sp. n.; Xyalophora tedjoansi sp. n.; Xyalophora tintini sp. n. Benoit’s species described in 1956 are synonymized under Figites aciculatus (Benoit, 1956): Figites effossus syn. n.; F. favonius syn. n.; F. furvus syn. n.; F. fraudator syn. n. Identification keys to the figitine genera and species occurring in the Afrotropical region are provided. Online interactive Lucid Phoenix and Lucid matrix keys are available at: http://www.waspweb.org/Cynipoidea/Keys/index.htm
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Research on scale insects"]

The planthopper genus Spartidelphax, a new segregate of Nearctic Delphacodes (Hemiptera, Delphacidae)
The new genus Spartidelphax is described to house three species removed from the polyphyletic genus Delphacodes. The members of Spartidelphax are coastal species native to eastern North America, and probably feed exclusively on cordgrass (Poaceae, Spartina Schreb.). The taxonomy and nomenclature of the included species (viz. S. detectus, S. luteivittus, and S. penedetectus) are reviewed. Spartidelphax luteivittus is a nomen dubium, whose type material is inadequate to provide diagnostic features contrasting with S. detectus and S. penedetectus. Diagnoses and a key are provided for the remaining Spartidelphax.
["New genus"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Description of two new Ecuadorian Zilchistrophia Weyrauch, 1960, with the clarification of the systematic position of the genus based on anatomical data (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Scolodontidae)
Two new species of the genus Zilchistrophia Weyrauch, 1960 are described from Eastern Ecuadorian rain forest: Zilchistrophia hilaryae sp. n. and Z. shiwiarorum sp. n. These two new species extend the distribution of the genus considerably northwards, because congeners have been reported from Peru only. For the first time we present anatomical data (radula, buccal mass, morphology of the foot and the genital structure) of Zilchistrophia species. According to these, the genus belongs to the family Scolodontidae, subfamily Scolodontinae (=“Systrophiini”). The previously assumed systematic relationship of Zilchistrophia with the Asian Corillidae and Plectopylidae based on the similarly looking palatal plicae is not supported.
["Systrophiidae"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Taxonomic studies of the Lygephila lubrica (Freyer, 1842) species complex with notes on other species in the genus (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Toxocampinae)
The taxa of the Lygephila lubrica (Freyer, 1846) species complex are revised. The genital features of all known taxa are described and illustrated, with special reference to the structure of the vesica. Genitalia of L. lubrica from different places in Russia, Central Asia and China are studied, illustrated and compared with different Mongolian populations. L. kazachkaratavika, described as a subspecies, is raised to a species level, stat. n. Neotypes of Lygephila lubrosa (Staudinger, 1901), L. lubrosa kazachkaratavika Stshetkin YuL & Stshetkin YuYu, 1994 [1997] and L. lubrosa orbonaria Stshetkin YuL & Stshetkin YuYu, 1994 [1997] are designated. The female genitalia of the type of L. lupina (Graeser, 1890) is described and illustrated for the first time, and L. mirabilis (Bryk, 1948) treated here as a junior subjective synonym, syn. n.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Macrolepidoptera biodiversity in Wooster, Ohio from 2001 through 2009
A Skinner mercury vapor light trap was operated from 2001 through 2009 in a residential backyard to document biodiversity within the moth families Thyatiridae, Drepanidae, Geometridae, Mimallonidae, Apatelodidae, Lasiocampidae, Saturniidae, Sphingidae, Erebidae (including Lymantriinae and Arctiinae), Euteliidae, Nolidae, and Noctuidae. When making comparisons to older literature, we recalculated our results to conform to the older classification of the Noctuoidea. Moths were released after identification. There were 501 species documented in 77581 captures from 1290 sampling dates. There was a perceived risk that released moths would fly back into the trap the following evening. This should result in an abnormal number of rare moths that are caught multiple times. The number of species caught twice versus the number caught once was no different than a similar ratio for surveys that used more traditional sampling methods. Therefore this concern does not seem to be valid for these data. These data are provided in a supplementary file available for download. There were three previous surveys conducted in nearby natural areas. They documented fewer species than were documented here. To understand this better, we examined several specialized groups of moths that tend to use host plants not typically found in an urban residential yard. More species in Schinia Hübner, Catocala Schrank, Acronicta Ochsenheimer, and Herminiinae Leech were found in this survey than the other local surveys. Only in the Papaipema Smith did we recover fewer species, though it was still above 70% of what was expected. This diversity could be a result of sampling effort, but it shows that this urban location has a very diverse moth fauna. We suggest that this diversity is partly due to the planting of native plant species in the area about the light trap. Therefore we would concur with others that urban landscapes can be planned to increase biodiversity relevant to more natural ecosystems. In this study we looked at the ratio of the number of species of Geometridae divided by the number of species of Noctuidae as one approach to evaluating the level of disturbance in the moth assemblage. Although the yearly average was nearly constant, the seasonal ratio ranged from 0.09 to 0.91 depending on the sampling date. We also calculated alpha diversity and found that seasonal change in alpha diversity greatly exceeded yearly differences. This strong seasonal component means that a comparison between two studies requires a correction for seasonality and similar sampling intervals. In this study, a shift of two weeks would be sufficient to result in a significant difference in alpha diversity. This is the equivalent of increasing temperature by 1.53 °C. Seasonal shifts limit the usefulness of this methodology for environmental assessment because the within season change exceeds the between season change. This problem is compounded when sampling designs interact with this seasonality. In describing our data, we made use of a growing degree day (GDD) model. This approach corrects for simple temperature dependent shifts in moth biology. Consequently, some of the variability in the data was removed, which should improve the power of statistical tests involving survey data. If sampling protocols were based on growing degree days rather than calendar dates, the bias caused by temperature induced shifts in seasonal cycles could be reduced.
["Organismal biological diversity"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The Stenopodainae (Hemiptera, Heteroptera) of Argentina
In Argentina, 10 genera and 33 species of Stenopodainae (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) have been recorded. Diagnoses of the genera, subgenera and species are given, and an illustrated key to genera is provided. Six species are new records for Argentina and an additional seven species represent new records for provinces.
["Reduviidae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Systematics of the freshwater leech genus Hirudinaria Whitman, 1886 (Arhynchobdellida, Hirudinidae) from northeastern Thailand
In total, 435 specimens of the Southeast Asian freshwater leech species within the Hirudinidae family were collected from 17 locations of various types of aquatic habitats in northeastern Thailand. They were all morphologically placed within the genus Hirudinaria Whitman, 1886 and there were three distinct species: the common Hirudinaria manillensis, 78.2% of all collected specimens and at all 17 locations, Hirudinaria javanica at 20.3% of collected samples and from five locations and a rarer unidentified morphospecies (Hirudinaria sp.) with six samples from only two locations. The karyotypes of these three species were examined across their range in this study area for 38, 11 and 6 adult specimens of Hirudinaria manillensis, Hirudinaria javanica and Hirudinaria sp., respectively. This revealed different chromosome numbers among all three species, with Hirudinaria javanica having n = 13, 2n = 26, Hirudinaria manillensis lacked one small chromosome pair with n = 12, 2n = 24, and the unknown Hirudinaria sp. differed from any known Hirudinaria karyotypes in exhibiting a higher chromosome number (n = 14, 2n = 28) and a gradual change in size from large to small chromosomes. This suggests that the unknown Hirudinaria sp. is a new biological species. However, phylogenetic analysis based upon a 658 bp fragment of the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene placed this unknown morphospecies within the Hirudinaria manillensis clade, perhaps then suggesting a recent sympatric speciation, although this requires further confirmation. Regardless, the chromosomes of all three species were asymmetric, most with telocentric elements. A distinct bi-armed chromosome marker was present on the first chromosome pair in Hirudinaria javanica, whilst it was on pairs 1, 2, 3 and 5 in Hirudinaria manillensis, and on pairs 3 and 5 for the unknown Hirudinaria sp.
["Freshwater leeches"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Phylogenetic relationships in the Niviventer-Chiromyscus complex (Rodentia, Muridae) inferred from molecular data, with description of a new species
Based on molecular data for mitochondrial (Cyt b, COI) and nuclear (IRBP, GHR) genes, and morphological examinations of museum specimens, we examined diversity, species boundaries, and relationships within and between the murine genera Chiromyscus and Niviventer. Phylogenetic patterns recovered demonstrate that Niviventer sensu lato is not monophyletic but instead includes Chiromyscus chiropus, the only previously recognized species of Chiropus. To maintain the genera Niviventer and Chiropus as monophyletic lineages, the scope and definition of the genus Chiromyscus is revised to include at least three distinct species: Chiromyscus chiropus (the type species of Chiromyscus), C. langbianis (previously regarded as a species of Niviventer), and a new species, described in this paper under the name C. thomasi sp. n.
["White-bellied rats"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Notes on the genus Xenocerogria (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Lagriini) from China
Three species of the genus Xenocerogria Merkl, 2007 have been recorded in China, X. feai (Borchmann, 1911), X. ignota (Borchmann, 1941) and X. ruficollis (Borchmann, 1912). Xenocera xanthisma Chen, 2002 is proposed as a junior synonym of X. ruficollis. Lectotype of X. ignota is designated, and the species is transferred to the genus Lagria Fabricius, 1775. New Chinese province records of X. ruficollis are provided.

Distributional records of Ross Sea (Antarctica) Tanaidacea from museum samples stored in the collections of the Italian National Antarctic Museum (MNA) and the New Zealand National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA)
Here we present distributional records for Tanaidacea specimens collected during several Antarctic expeditions to the Ross Sea: the Italian PNRA expeditions (“V”, 1989/1990; “XI”, 1995/1996; “XIV”, 1998/1999; “XIX”, 2003/2004; “XXV”, 2009/2010) and the New Zealand historical (New Zealand Oceanographic Institute, NZOI, 1958-1961) and recent (“TAN0402 BIOROSS” voyage, 2004 and “TAN0802 IPY-CAML Oceans Survey 20/20” voyage, 2008) expeditions. Tanaidaceans were obtained from bottom samples collected at depths ranging from 16 to 3543 m by using a variety of sampling gears. On the whole, this contribution reports distributional data for a total of 2953 individuals belonging to 33 genera and 50 species. All vouchers are permanently stored in the Italian National Antarctic Museum collection (MNA), Section of Genoa (Italy) and at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA Invertebrate Collection), Wellington (New Zealand).
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

The mitochondrial genome of the land snail Camaena cicatricosa (Müller, 1774) (Stylommatophora, Camaenidae): the first complete sequence in the family Camaenidae
The complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of the snail Camaena cicatricosa (Müller, 1774) has been sequenced and annotated in this study. The entire circular genome is 13,843 bp in size and represents the first camaenid mt genome, with content of 31.9%A, 37.9%T, 13.5%C and 16.7%G. Gene content, codon usage and base organization show similarity to a great extent to the sequenced mt genome from Stylommatophora, whereas, gene order is different from them, especially the positions of tRNACys, tRNAPhe, COII, tRNAAsp, tRNAGly, tRNAHis and tRNATrp. All protein coding genes use standard initiation codons ATN except for COII with GTG as start signal. Conventional stop codons TAA and TAG have been assigned to all protein coding genes. All tRNA genes possess the typical clover leaf structure, but the TψC arm of tRNAAsp and dihydrouridine arm of tRNASer(AGN) only form a simple loop. Shorter intergenic spacers have been found in this mt genome. Phylogenetic study based on protein coding genes shows close relationship of Camaenidae and Bradybaenidae. The presented phylogeny is consistent with the monophyly of Stylommatophora.
["Camaena"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Sylphella puccoon gen. n., sp. n. and two additional new species of aquatic oligochaetes (Lumbriculidae, Clitellata) from poorly-known lotic habitats in North Carolina (USA)
Three new species of Lumbriculidae were collected from floodplain seeps and small streams in southeastern North America. Some of these habitats are naturally acidic. Sylphella puccoon gen. n., sp. n. has prosoporous male ducts in X–XI, and spermathecae in XII–XIII. Muscular, spherical atrial ampullae and acuminate penial sheaths distinguish this monotypic new genus from other lumbriculid genera having similar arrangements of reproductive organs. Cookidrilus pocosinus sp. n. resembles its two subterranean, Palearctic congeners in the arrangement of reproductive organs, but is easily distinguished by the position of the spermathecal pores in front of the chaetae in X–XIII. Stylodrilus coreyi sp. n. differs from congeners having simple-pointed chaetae and elongate atria primarily by the structure of the male duct and the large clusters of prostate cells. Streams and wetlands of Southeastern USA have a remarkably high diversity of endemic lumbriculids, and these poorly-known invertebrates should be considered in conservation efforts.
["Lumbriculids"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Study of Mite Species"]

A taxonomic monograph of Nearctic Scolytus Geoffroy (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae)
The Nearctic bark beetle genus Scolytus Geoffroy was revised based in part on a molecular and morphological phylogeny. Monophyly of the native species was tested using mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (28S, CAD, ArgK) genes and 43 morphological characters in parsimony and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses. Parsimony analyses of molecular and combined datasets provided mixed results while Bayesian analysis recovered most nodes with posterior probabilities >90%. Native hardwood- and conifer-feeding Scolytus species were recovered as paraphyletic. Native Nearctic species were recovered as paraphyletic with hardwood-feeding species sister to Palearctic hardwood-feeding species rather than to native conifer-feeding species. The Nearctic conifer-feeding species were monophyletic. Twenty-five species were recognized. Four new synonyms were discovered: S. praeceps LeConte, 1868 (= S. abietis Blackman, 1934; = S. opacus Blackman, 1934), S. reflexus Blackman, 1934 (= S. virgatus Bright, 1972; = S. wickhami Blackman, 1934). Two species were reinstated: S. fiskei Blackman, 1934 and S. silvaticus Bright, 1972. A diagnosis, description, distribution, host records and images were provided for each species and a key is presented to all species.
["Scolytidae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Amphibians of Serra Bonita, southern Bahia: a new hotpoint within Brazil’s Atlantic Forest hotspot
We studied the amphibian community of the Private Reserve of Natural Heritage (RPPN) Serra Bonita, an area of 20 km2 with steep altitudinal gradients (200–950 m a.s.l.) located in the municipalities of Camacan and Pau-Brasil, southern Bahia State, Brazil. Data were obtained at 38 sampling sites (including ponds and transects within the forest and in streams), through active and visual and acoustic searches, pitfall traps, and opportunistic encounters. We recorded 80 amphibian species distributed in 15 families: Aromobatidae (1), Brachycephalidae (3), Bufonidae (4), Centrolenidae (2), Ceratophryidae (1), Craugastoridae (7), Eleutherodactylidae (2), Hemiphractidae (2), Hylidae (42), Hylodidae (1), Leptodactylidae (7), Microhylidae (3), Siphonopidae (1), Odontophrynidae (3) and Pipidae (1). Species richness was positively correlated with monthly rainfall. Near 36% of the species were found in strictly forest environments, 15% are endemic to Bahia State and 77.2% are endemic to the Atlantic Forest biome. The large species diversity of this small area, the high degree of endemism and the taxonomic and biogeographic significance turn the Serra Bonita mountain into a hotpoint for amphibians within Brazil’s Atlantic Forest hotspot.

Ingolfiella maldivensis sp. n. (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Ingolfiellidae) from coral reef sand off Magoodhoo island, Maldives
A new species of marine interstitial wormshrimp, Ingolfiella maldivensis, is described from coral sand on the inner and outer reef off Magoodhoo island, Faafu atoll, Maldives. Six females were found and compared to other species from the Maldives and those bordering the Indian Ocean and beyond. Morphological resemblance ties it to a species from the Caribbean island of Curaçao. Both species are found in shallow sublittoral interstitial spaces.

An unusual new species of paguroid (Crustacea, Anomura, Paguridae) from deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico
A new hermit crab species of the family Paguridae, Tomopaguropsis ahkinpechensis sp. n., is described from deep waters (780–827 m) of the Gulf of Mexico. This is the second species of Tomopaguropsis known from the western Atlantic, and the fifth worldwide. The new species is morphologically most similar to a species from Indonesia, T. crinita McLaughlin, 1997, the two having ocular peduncles that diminish in width distally, reduced corneas, dense cheliped setation, and males lacking paired pleopods 1. The calcified figs on the branchiostegite and anterodorsally on the posterior carapace, and the calcified first pleonal somite that is not fused to the last thoracic somite, are unusual paguroid characters. A discussion of the affinities and characters that define this new species is included, along with a key to all five species of Tomopaguropsis.
["Tomopaguropsis"]

Taxonomic guide and historical review of starfishes in northeastern Brazil (Echinodermata, Asteroidea)
Presently more than 1900 species of sea stars are recognized, of which 77 are recorded for the coast of Brazil. Although the first starfish record in Brazil was published 363 years ago, our knowledge of this fauna remains unsatisfactory from a systematic and ecological point of view, particularly in the north and northeastern regions of the country. This study provides the first annotated list of sea stars from northeastern Brazil. Material described herein is housed at the collections of the Federal University of Paraíba, Federal University of Sergipe, and the Federal University of Bahia, Museum of Zoology of the University of São Paulo and Museu Nacional do Rio de Janeiro. Twenty-one species were identified, belonging to 12 genera, 10 families, and 5 orders. Descriptions of species are provided. Three new occurrences were recorded for northeast Brazil: Astropecten alligator, Luidia ludwigi scotti, and Mithrodia clavigera. Highest diversities of Asteroidea were encountered for the states of Bahia (n = 14 spp), Paraíba (n = 12 spp) and Pernambuco (n = 9 spp). No species were recorded for the states of Maranhão and Sergipe. Sandy substrates and depths below 10 m were the least sampled areas over the continental shelf. Herein we provide a first panorama on the fauna of Asteroidea occurring in the northeast region of Brazil, hopefully to function as a basic reference for biodiversity studies in this poorly studied area.
["Echinoderms"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

A taxonomic review on the species of Tetraserica Ahrens, 2004, of China (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
A review on the Chinese species of Tetraserica Ahrens, 2004, is presented. The lectotype of Tetraserica tonkinensis (Moser, 1908), comb. n. is designated. Twenty-nine new Tetraserica species are described from China and adjacent regions: Tetraserica anhuaensis sp. n., T. changjiangensis sp. n., T. changshouensis sp. n., T. damaidiensis sp. n., T. daqingshanica sp. n., T. fikaceki sp. n., T. graciliforceps sp. n., T. jinghongensis sp. n., T. leishanica sp. n., T. liangheensis sp. n., T. linaoshanica sp. n., T. longipenis sp. n., T. longzhouensis sp. n., T. maoershanensis sp. n., T. mengeana sp. n., T. menglongensis sp. n., T. pingjiangensis sp. n., T. ruiliana sp. n., T. ruiliensis sp. n., T. sculptilis sp. n., T. shangsiensis sp. n., T. shunbiensis sp. n., T. sigulianshanica sp. n., T. tianchiensis sp. n., T. wandingensis sp. n., T. wangtongensis sp. n., T. xichouensis sp. n., T. yaoanica sp. n., T. yaoquensis sp. n. A key to the Chinese Tetraserica species is given, species distribution as well as the habitus and male genitalia of all species are illustrated.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A taxonomic revision of the Neoserica (sensu lato) calva group (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
The species of the Neoserica (sensu lato) calva group are revised. Neoserica calva Frey, 1972, comb. n. is redescribed. Thirteen new species are described from China and South Korea: Neoserica ailaoshanica sp. n., N. anonyma sp. n., N. calvoides sp. n., N. gulinqingensis sp. n., N. koelkebecki sp. n., N. liangi sp. n., N. luxiensis sp. n., N. menghaiensis sp. n., N. mengi sp. n., N. taipingensis sp. n., N. zheijangensis sp. n., N. zhibenshanica sp. n., and N. zongyuani sp. n. A key to Sericini genera with multilamellate antenna and species groups of Neoserica of mainland Asia as well as a key to species of the N. calva group are provided. A map of species distribution is given, habitus and male genitalia are illustrated.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

A new species and first record of the genus Cynegetis Chevrolat (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Epilachnini) from China
The first species of the genus Cynegetis Chevrolat is recorded from China. Cynegetis chinensis Wang & Ren, sp. n. is described from the Ningxia Province in North China. A key to the known species of Cynegetis is given. Diagnostic similarities and differences between Cynegetis and Subcoccinella Agassiz & Erichson are discussed and illustrated.
["Entomology"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new species of Isoperla (Insecta, Plecoptera) from the Karawanken, with considerations on the Southern Limestone Alps as centers of endemism
A new species of the genus Isoperla (Plecoptera, Perlodidae), belonging to the oxylepis species-group is described, and the male mating call is characterized. Its range falls within a small region of the Southern Limestone Alps which is well known to be one endemism-centre of aquatic insects.
["Isoperla"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A review of the dragon millipede genus Desmoxytes Chamberlin, 1923 in China, with descriptions of four new species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Four new species of Desmoxytes are described from southern China: D. lingulata sp. n., D. parvula sp. n., and D. nodulosa sp. n., from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and D. getuhensis sp. n. from Guizhou Province. In addition, new records of D. scutigeroides Golovatch, Geoffroy & Mauriès, 2010 and D. scolopendroides Golovatch, Geoffroy & Mauriès, 2010 are provided, with a modified key to Desmoxytes species currently known to occur in China. Two of the new species, D. nodulosa sp. n. and D. getuhensis sp. n., seem to be troglobites.
["Diplopod"]

Bumba, a replacement name for Maraca Pérez-Miles, 2005 and Bumba lennoni, a new tarantula species from western Amazonia (Araneae, Theraphosidae, Theraphosinae)
We propose the name Bumba as a new name for Maraca, preoccupied by Maraca Hebard, 1926 (Orthoptera). We describe and illustrate Bumba lennoni, a new theraphosid species from Caxiuanã, Pará, Brazil. This species differs from the other species of the genus in the extremely reduced keel on male palpal organ and in the higher number of labial and maxillary cuspules. Females additionally differ in the spermathecal morphology. As a consequence of the name replacement, three new combinations are established.
["Tarantula"]

Two new species of Lobrathium Mulsant & Rey (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from China
Lobrathium jianqingi sp. n. (Guangxi: Shiwanda Shan) and L. atanggei sp. n. (Yunnan: Nabanhe) from southwest China are described and illustrated.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Taxonomy of the genus Homalota Mannerheim in Korea (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
A taxonomic study of the genus Homalota Mannerheim in Korea is presented. Five species are recognized, one of which, Homalota serrata (Assing), comb. n. is transferred from Anomognathus Solier. Homalota fraterna (Sharp), H. mikado Likovský, H. sauteri Bernhauer, and H. serrata are newly added to the Korean fauna. A key, descriptions, and illustrations of the diagnostic characters are provided.

Review of Nitidotachinus Campbell (Staphylinidae, Tachyporinae) from Mainland China
The genus Nitidotachinus Campbell of Mainland China is reviewed with descriptions of five new species: N. anhuiensis sp. n. (Anhui), N. bini sp. n. (Zhejiang), N. brunneus sp. n. (Zhejiang), N. capillosus sp. n. (Zhejiang), and N. xiangi sp. n. (Hubei). Nitidotachinus excellens concolor Schülke is synonymized with N. excellens syn. n. All treated species are described with their major diagnostic characters illustrated. An identification key to the species is given.

Taxonomy of the ant genus Proceratium Roger (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in the Afrotropical region with a revision of the P. arnoldi clade and description of four new species
The taxonomy of the genus Proceratium Roger is updated for the Afrotropical region. We give an overview of the genus in the region, provide an illustrated identification key to the three clades (P. arnoldi, P. stictum and P. toschii clades) and revise the P. arnoldi clade. Four new species from the P. arnoldi clade are described as new: P. sokoke sp. n. from Kenya, P. carri sp. n. from Mozambique, and P. nilo sp. n. and P. sali sp. n. from Tanzania. In order to integrate the new species into the existing taxonomic system we present an illustrated identification key to distinguish the seven Afrotropical species of the P. arnoldi clade. In addition, we provide accounts for all members of the P. arnoldi clade including detailed descriptions, diagnoses, taxonomic discussions, distribution data and high quality montage images.
["Arabuko Sokoke Forest"]

A new species of Labidocera (Copepoda, Calanoida, Pontellidae) collected from Okinawa, southwestern Japan, with establishment of five Indo-West Pacific species groups in the L. detruncata species complex
Labidocera churaumi sp. n. is described from Okinawa, southwestern Japan. The female of the new species differs from other congeners in genital compound somite with right postero-lateral and left antero-lateral processes. The male is distinguished from other congeners by the structure of the fifth leg. This new species is assigned to a newly proposed species group, the L. madurae species group, within the L. detruncata species complex. In this species complex five Indo-West Pacific species groups are recognized (cervi, detruncata, gangetica, madurae, and pavo) and defined on the basis of difference in sexual dimorphism.
["Indo-West Pacific"]

A new genus (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Laophontidae) from Jeju Island of Korea
A survey on the harpacticoid copepods from an intertidal zone in Hyeopjae sandy beach, Jeju Island, Korea, resulted in the discovery of an unusual laophontid, Jejulaophonte hyeopjaeensis sp. n., which cannot be placed in any extant genus within the family. To accommodate the species, a new genus of the family Laophontidae T. Scott, 1905 is proposed and fully described here. The new species is closely related to the lineage of the five primitive genera, Carraroenia McCormack, 2006, Coullia Hamond, 1973, Hemilaophonte Jakubisiak 1933, Psammoplatypus Lee & Huys, 1999, and Robustunguis Fiers, 1992 (the CCHPR-lineage) by the reduced P2 endopod, ovate shape of the female P5 exopod and sexual dimorphism in the P3 endopod. However, it displays discrepancies from the species of the CCHPR-lineage in the presence of an inner seta on P3 and P4 exp-2, four setae on P4 enp-2, and an inner seta on P3 and P4 enp-2 in the female. Furthermore, no other species within the family Laophontidae has three setae on P2 exp-3 and a seta on P2 enp-2 at the same time. The new species has sexual dimorphism in the antennule, genital segmentation and the legs from P2 to P5. The terminal seta on the second endopodal segment of P2 in the male is longer than that in the female. The endopod of P3 is 3-segmented and displays a short inner apophysis on the second segment in the male. The outer setae on the exopod of P3 and P4 are distinctly thicker and stronger in the male than in the female. Mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) sequencing of the new species has been realized in order to be used in future phylogenetic analysis.
["Jejulaophonte"]

Revision of the genus Pseudapanteles (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae), with emphasis on the species in Area de Conservación Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica
Pseudapanteles is a moderately diverse genus of Microgastrinae parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), endemic to the New World and with the vast majority of its species (including many undescribed) in the Neotropical region. We describe here 25 new species from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), northwestern Costa Rica, based on 400 studied specimens. A key to all 36 known species of Pseudapanteles is provided (except for P. brunneus, only known from a single male), and species are placed in three newly created species-groups. Host records are known for only 25% of the species; most are solitary parasitoids of the caterpillars of several families of small Lepidoptera (Crambidae, Elachistidae, Gelechiidae, Incurvariidae, Sesiidae, Tineidae). DNA barcodes (part of the CO1 gene) were obtained for 30 species (83%), and provide a start for future study of the genus beyond ACG. Brief descriptions (generated by Lucid 3.5 software) and extensive illustrations are provided for all species. The following new taxonomic and nomenclatural acts are proposed: Pseudapanteles moerens (Nixon, 1965), comb. n., Pseudapanteles brunneus Ashmead, 1900, comb. rev., a lectotype is designated for Pseudapanteles ruficollis (Cameron, 1911), and the following 25 species nova of Pseudapanteles (all authored by Fernández-Triana and Whitfield): alfiopivai, alvaroumanai, analorenaguevarae, carlosespinachi, carlosrodriguezi, christianafigueresae, hernanbravoi, jorgerodriguezi, josefigueresi, laurachinchillae, luisguillermosolisi, margaritapenonae, mariobozai, mariocarvajali, maureenballesteroae, munifigueresae, oscarariasi, ottonsolisi, pedroleoni, raulsolorzanoi, renecastroi, rodrigogamezi, rosemarykarpinskiae, soniapicadoae, teofilodelatorrei.
["Pseudapanteles"]

The larva of Oecetis tripunctata (Fabricius, 1793) (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae)
Oecetis tripunctata is a widely distributed leptocerid in Europe, ranging from the Iberian and Apennine peninsulas and the Central and Western European highlands to the plains of Eastern Europe. The long, single-bladed mandibles are indicative for a predacious lifestyle. This paper describes the previously unknown larva of Oecetis tripunctata. Information on the morphology of the 5th larval instar is given, and the most important diagnostic features are illustrated. A synoptic key for the European species of Oecetis is also provided. In the context of existing identification keys the larva of O. tripunctata keys together with O. intima and O. notata. Oecetis tripunctata is separated from the other two species by the fact that a double row of long setal fringes is lacking at the hind tibiae and that several long setae are present on the protrochantinus.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Erythraeid mites (Prostigmata, Erythraeidae) from Saudi Arabia, description of three new species and a new record
Three erythraeid genera Balaustium von Heyden, Charletonia Oudemans, and Erythraeus Latreille (Trombidiformes: Prostigmata) are reported for first time from Saudi Arabia based on three new larval species, B. yousifi sp. n., C. bahaensis sp. n., and E. (Erythraeus) uhadisp. n. and one new record Erythraeus (Zaracarus) lancifer Southcott. All the three new species are described and illustrated from larvae.
["Balaustium"]

A new quadrannulate species of Orobdella (Hirudinida, Arhynchobdellida, Orobdellidae) from central Honshu, Japan
A new quadrannulate species of Orobdella, Orobdella masaakikuroiwai sp. n., from the mountainous region of central Honshu, Japan is described. This is only the second small species known within this genus, with a body length of less than 4 cm for mature individuals. Phylogenetic analyses using nuclear 18S rDNA and histone H3 as well as mitochondrial COI, tRNACys, tRNAMet, 12S, tRNAVal, 16S, and ND1 markers showed that O. masaakikuroiwai sp. n. is the sister species of the quadrannulate O. whitmani Oka, 1895. Phylogenetic relationships within O. masaakikuroiwai sp. n. conducted using mitochondrial markers reveled a distinction between eastern and western phylogroups.
["Hirudinea"]
["Legionella and Acanthamoeba research", "Fecal contamination and water quality", "Urban Stormwater Management Solutions"]

Taxonomic revision of Aegista subchinensis (Möllendorff, 1884) (Stylommatophora, Bradybaenidae) and a description of a new species of Aegista from eastern Taiwan based on multilocus phylogeny and comparative morphology
Aegista subchinensis (Möllendorff, 1884) is a widely distributed land snail species with morphological variation and endemic to Taiwan. Three genetic markers (partial sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I [COI], the 16S rDNA and the nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 [ITS2]) were analysed to infer phylogenetic relationships and genetic divergence of closely related species of the genus Aegista, A. vermis (Reeve, 1852) and A. oculus (Pfeiffer, 1850). A new species from A. subchinensis has been recognized on the basis of phylogenetic and morphological evidences. The nominal new species, A. diversifamilia sp. n. is distinguished from A. subchinensis (Möllendorff, 1884) by its larger shell size, aperture and apex angle; wider umbilicus and flatter shell shape. The northernmost distribution of A. diversifamilia sp. n. is limited by the Lanyang River, which is presumed to mark the geographic barrier between A. diversifamilia sp. n. and A. subchinensis.
["Stylommatophora"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

A new species of Harpacticella Sars, 1908 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida), from a tidal pool on Jeju Island, Korea
A new species of the genus Harpacticella Sars, 1908 is described from a tidal pool on Jeju Island, Korea. Harpacticella jejuensis sp. n. is closely related to H. itoi Chang & Kim, 1991, with regard to the structure of P1 exp-1 and enp-1, the length of P1 exp-1 and exp-2, and the setal number of the P5 exopod in males. However, the new species is clearly distinguishable from H. itoi by the combined following characters: six setae on the P5 exopod in females, one naked seta on the inner margin of P1 exp-2, the short endopod of P1 compared to the exopod, and a naked long seta on the proximal inner margin of the P5 exopod of males. The mtCOI partial sequence is provided as a DNA barcode for the new species.
["Harpacticidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Occurrence of Diopatra marocensis (Annelida, Onuphidae) in the eastern Mediterranean
The present study deals with the presence of Diopatra marocensis in the eastern Mediterranean. This species is small-sized and inhabited muddy bottom near the opening of rivers or lagoons [salinity range: 33−39‰] in the Aegean and Levantine Seas, and reached a maximum density of 90 ind.m-2 in Mersin Bay. This species might be an alien species that was introduced from the East Atlantic (near Gibraltar) to the eastern Mediterranean via ballast water of ships, as it has never been reported from the western Mediterranean Sea.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

First report of the presence of Acartia bispinosa Carl, 1907 (Copepoda, Calanoida) in a semi-enclosed Bay (Sharm El-Maya), northern Red Sea with some notes on its seasonal variation in abundance and body size
The calanoid copepod, Acartia bispinosa Carl, 1907, is reported for the first time in the Red Sea, where it is found to be an important copepod in the mesozooplankton community structure of the Sharm El-Maya Bay. Female and male are fully redescribed and illustrated of as the mouthparts of this species have never previously been described and figured. Acartia bispinosa was collected in the plankton samples throughout the year and showed two peaks of abundance, a pronounced one in April (4234 individuals m-3), and second smaller peak during November (1784 individuals m-3). The average total length of females varied between 1.32 and 1.53 mm at the end of June and January respectively. For males, the average total length fluctuated between 1.07 and 1.16 mm at end of June and March respectively. Temperature showed an inverse relationship with the body length (P > 0.001) and seemed to be one of the prime factors affecting the body length of both sexes.
["Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Two species of Naididae (Annelida, Clitellata) from southern Tibet, China
One new species of Naidinae (Oligochaeta, Naididae), Nais badia sp. n. and one new record species from China, Tubifex montanus Kowalewski, 1919 (Tubificinae) are found in southern Tibet. The new species is distinguished from congeners by its large area of reddish brown pigment in the anterior segments I–VIII, serrate hairs, pectinate needles with 1–2 intermediate teeth, ventral chaetae partly with 1–2 fine intermediate teeth and wave-like movements. The new material of the species Tubifex montanus differs slightly from the previous descriptions by its vas deferens entering atrium subapically, wide ental end of penial sheath and smooth hair chaetae.
["Nais"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Shallow-water zoantharians (Cnidaria, Hexacorallia) from the Central Indo-Pacific
Despite the Central Indo-Pacific (CIP) and the Indonesian Archipelago being a well-known region of coral reef biodiversity, particularly in the ‘Coral Triangle’, little published information is available on its zoantharians (Cnidaria: Hexacorallia: Zoantharia). In order to provide a basis for future research on the Indo-Pacific zoantharian fauna and facilitate comparisons between more well-studied regions such as Japan and the Great Barrier Reef, this report deals with CIP zoantharian specimens in the Naturalis collection in Leiden, the Netherlands; 106 specimens were placed into 24 morpho-species and were supplemented with 88 in situ photographic records from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. At least nine morpho-species are likely to be undescribed species, indicating that the region needs more research in order to properly understand zoantharian diversity within the CIP. The Naturalis’ zoantharian specimens are listed by species, as well as all relevant collection information, and in situ images are provided to aid in future studies on zoantharians in the CIP.
["Zoantharians"]
["Economic and Technological Developments in Russia"]

Longivena, a new robber-fly genus from Brazil (Diptera, Asilidae, Asilinae)
Longivena gen. n. and five new species are described and illustrated from caatinga and cerrado habitats from Brazil: Longivena digitata sp. n., type–species (Maranhão, Bahia, Minas Gerais and Mato Grosso do Sul states), L. bilobata sp. n. (Maranhão state), L. flava sp. n. (Mato Grosso do Sul state), L. limeiraoliverai sp. n. (Maranhão state), L. spatulata sp. n. (Maranhão state). An illustrated key is also provided.
["Asilidae"]

The integripennis species group of Geocharidius Jeannel, 1963 (Carabidae, Bembidiini, Anillina) from Nuclear Central America: a taxonomic review with notes about biogeography and speciation
Our review recognizes 15 species of the integripennis species group of Geocharidius from Nuclear Central America, include three species previously described (G. gimlii Erwin, G. integripennis (Bates) and G. zullinii Vigna Taglianti) and 12 described here as new. They are: G. andersoni sp. n. (type locality: Chiapas, Chiapas Highlands, Cerro Huitepec) and G. vignatagliantii sp. n. (type locality: Chiapas, Motozintla, Sierra Madre de Chiapas, Benito Juárez) from Mexico; G. antigua sp. n. (type locality: Sacatepéquez, 5 km SE of Antigua), G. balini sp. n. (type locality: Suchitepéquez, 4 km S of Volcan Atitlán), G. erwini sp. n. (type locality: Quiché Department, 7 km NE of Los Encuentros), G. jalapensis sp. n. (type locality: Jalapa Department, 4 km E of Mataquescuintla), G. longinoi, sp. n. (type locality: El Progreso Department, Cerro Pinalón), and G. minimus sp. n. (type locality: Sacatepéquez Department, 5 km SE of Antigua) from Guatemala; and G. celaquensis sp. n. (type locality: Lempira Department, Celaque National Park), G. comayaguanus sp. n. (type locality: Comayagua Department, 18 km ENE of Comayagua), G. disjunctus sp. n. (type locality: Francisco Morazán, La Tigra National Park), and G. lencanus sp. n. (type locality: Lempira Department, Celaque National Park) from Honduras. For all members of the group, adult structural characters, including male and female genitalia, are described, and a taxonomic key for all members of the integripennis species group is presented based on these characters. Behavioral and biogeographical aspects of speciation in the group are discussed, based on the morphological analysis. In all cases of sympatry, pairs of closely related species show greater differences in sizes than pairs of more remotely related species. Integripennis group species occupy six different montane areas at elevations above 1300m, with no species shared among them. Major faunal barriers in the region limiting present species distributions include the Motagua Fault Zone and a gap between the Guatemalan Cordillera volcanic chain and the Honduran Interior Highlands no higher than 900m in elevation. Highest species diversity is in the Guatematan Cordillera (six species), second highest in the Honduran Interior Highlands area (four species).

Taxonomic note and description of new species of Fissocantharis Pic from China (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
Two new species of Fissocantharis Pic are described, F. bifoveatus sp. n. (CHINA: Yunnan) and F. acuticollis sp. n. (CHINA: Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong, Hunan). F. pieli (Pic, 1937) is redescribed and F. kontumensis Wittmer, 1989 is provided with a supplementary description. F. shanensis (Wittmer, 1997) is synonymized with F. kontumensis. For the above four species, illustrations of male genitalia are provided, for the latter three also photos of female genitalia and abdominal sternites VIII, and for the new species photos of male habitus and antennae are presented. Additionally, the specific name of F. wittmeri (Y. Yang et X. Yang, 2009), preoccupied by F. wittmeri (Kazantsev, 2007), is replaced by F. walteri Y. Yang et X. Yang, nom. n. And F. wittmeri (Kazantsev, 2007) is found to be a junior objective synonym of F. denominata (Wittmer, 1997).

New records of spider wasps (Hymenoptera, Pompilidae) from Colombia
New records of genera and species of spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) from Colombia are provided. Agenioideus, Cryptocheilus, Evagetes, Mystacagenia, and Xerochares are newly recorded genera from Colombia. Nineteen species are first recorded from Colombia: Aimatocare vitrea (Fox); Ageniella azteca (Cameron); Ageniella curtipinus (Cameron); Ageniella fallax (Arlé); Ageniella hirsuta Banks; Ageniella pilifrons (Cameron); Ageniella pretiosa Banks; Ageniella sanguinolenta (Smith); Ageniella zeteki (Banks); Agenioideus birkmanni (Banks); Aporus (Aporus) cuzco Evans; Aporus (Cosmiaporus) diverticulus (Fox); Aporus (Notoplaniceps) canescens Smith; Euplaniceps exilis (Banks); Euplaniceps herbertii (Fox); Irenangelus clarus Evans; Mystacagenia bellula Evans; Phanochilus nobilitatus (Smith) and Xerochares expulsus Schulz. The following species and genera have their occurence ranges expanded for South America: Ageniella azteca (Cameron); Ageniella zeteki (Banks); Agenioideus birkmanni (Banks); and Xerochares expulsus Schulz; Cryptocheilus Panzer; and Xerochares Evans.
["Pompilidae"]

Cryptalyra (Hymenoptera, Megalyridae) from Maranhão, Brazil: three new species discovered after a large collecting effort
Cryptalyra is a small genus of megalyrid wasps with three described species confined to South America. Our main goal in this work is to record an increase in the known diversity, adding the three new species Cryptalyra helenae sp. n., C. ichiroi sp. n. and C. limeirai sp. n., from a single locality in Maranhão, Brazil that has been subjected to extraordinary collecting effort. We are providing a key for the species of the genus, as well as illustrations of the main structures for recognition of the new taxa.
["Apocrita"]

The oribatid mite genus Benoibates (Acari, Oribatida, Oripodidae)
Two species of oribatid mites of the genus Benoibates (Oribatida, Oripodidae), i.e., B. bolivianus Balogh & Mahunka, 1969(a) and B. minimus Mahunka, 1985, are recorded for the first time in Costa Rica. Both are redescribed in details, using drawings, images and SEM micrographs, on the basis of Costa Rican specimens. An identification key to the known species of Benoibates is given.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

A new genus of Strepsiptera, Rozenia gen. n. (Stylopidae), a parasite of bee genera Acamptopoeum and Calliopsis (Andrenidae, Panurginae, Calliopsini)
A new Strepsiptera genus from South America is described, Rozenia gen. n., with three new species: R. calliopsidis sp. n. (type species), R. peruana sp. n. and R. platicephala sp. n. These three new species are parasites of bees belonging to the tribe Calliopsini (Andrenidae, Panurginae). Rozenia calliopsidis sp. n. is a parasite of the bee genus Calliopsis Smith, 1853 and R. peruana sp. n. and R. platicephala sp. n. are parasites of the bee genus Acamptopoeum Cockerell, 1905. Diagnoses and descriptions of female puparia are presented for all three species. Diagnoses and descriptions of first instars (triungulinids) are presented for R. calliopsidis sp. n. and R. platicephala sp. n. The first case of increased number of setae on the body of the first instars and augmentation of chaetotaxy of Strepsiptera are discussed.

A new genus and species for the first recorded cave-dwelling Cavernicola (Platyhelminthes) from South America
Species diversity of Brazilian cave fauna has been seriously underestimated. A karst area located in Felipe Guerra, northeastern Brazil, which is a hotspot of subterranean diversity in Brazil, has revealed more than 20 troglobitic species, most of them still undescribed. Based on recent samplings in this karst area, we document the occurrence of the suborder Cavernicola (Platyhelminthes) in South American hypogean environments for the first time and describe a new genus and species for this suborder. Hausera Leal-Zanchet & Souza, gen. n. has features concordant with those defined for the family Dimarcusidae. The new genus is characterized by two unique features, viz. an intestine extending dorsally to the brain and ovovitelline ducts located dorsally to the nerve cords, which is complemented by a combination of other characters. The type-specimens of Hausera hauseri Leal-Zanchet & Souza, sp. n. are typical stygobionts, unpigmented and eyeless, and they may constitute an oceanic relict as is the case of other stygobiotic invertebrates found in this karst area in northeastern Brazil.
["Troglobitic species"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Neoplecostomus doceensis: a new loricariid species (Teleostei, Siluriformes) from the rio Doce basin and comments about its putative origin
A new species of Neoplecostomus is described from the rio Doce basin representing the first species of this genus in the basin. The new species is distinguished from its congeners byenlarged, fleshy folds between dentaries, two or three series of developed papillae anterior to premaxillary teeth and a adipose-fin membrane present, and by lacking enlarged odontodes along snout lateral margins in mature males, a well-developed dorsal-fin spinelet wider than dorsal-fin spine base, lower number of lateral-line plates and developed membrane on the dorsal portion of the first, second and third pelvic-fin branched rays. Additionally, we present a brief discussion of biogeographic scenarios that may explain the distribution of the new species in the rio Doce basin. We suggested that the ancestral lineage of the new species reached the rio Doce from the upper portions of rio Paraná drainages about 3.5 Mya (95% HPD: 1.6–5.5) indicating a colonization route of the N. doceensis ancestral lineage from the south end of Serra do Espinhaço, probably as a result of headwater capture processes between the upper rio Paraná and rio Doce basins.
["Brazilian shield"]

A taxonomic revision of the Neoserica (sensu lato) pilosula group (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
Nine new species of the Neoserica (sensu lato) pilosula Moser, 1915, group are described from China: Neoserica curvipenis sp. n., N. emeishanensis sp. n., N. lincangensis sp. n., N. ludingensis sp. n., N. lushuiana sp. n., N. rangshuiensis sp. n., N. shennongjiaensis sp. n., N. tianeana sp. n., and N. weibaoshanica sp. n. The lectotype of Neoserica pilosula Moser, 1915, is designated. Habitus and male genitalia are illustrated, a key to the species of the group and a map of species distribution are given.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Description of two new species and redescription of one species of agnarid terrestrial isopods (Oniscidea, Agnaridae) from western Iran
The present study reports on three species of terrestrial isopods from western Iran. The genus Mongoloniscus Verhoeff, 1930 is recorded for the first time from Iran, with description of a new species: M. persicus sp. n. Protracheoniscus ehsani sp. n. is described and P. darevskii Borutzky, 1975 is redescribed based on Iranian specimens. The diagnostic characters of these species are figured and their geographical distribution is presented on a map.
["Hispanic-African Historical Relations", "Historical Studies of Medieval Iberia"]

Biodiversity census of Lake St Lucia, iSimangaliso Wetland Park (South Africa): Gastropod molluscs
The recent dry phase experienced by the St Lucia estuarine system has led to unprecedented desiccation and hypersaline conditions through most of its surface area. This has changed only recently, at the end of 2011, with the onset of a new wet phase that has already caused a major shift to oligo- and mesohaline conditions. The estuary mouth, however, remains closed to the ocean, making the weak connection recently established between the St Lucia and the Mfolozi estuaries the only conveyance for marine recruitment. As a result, only 10 indigenous and two alien aquatic gastropod species are currently found living in the St Lucia estuarine lake. This is out of a total of 37 species recorded within the system since the earliest survey undertaken in 1924, half of which have not been reported in the literature before. The tick shell, Nassarius kraussianus, which was consistently found in large abundance prior to the recent dry phase, appears to have temporarily disappeared from the system, probably as a result of the extinction of Zostera marine grasses inside the lake. Population explosions of the bubble shell Haminoea natalensis, with its distinct egg masses, were recorded seasonally until 2009, but the species has subsequently not been observed again. A molecular DNA analysis of the various populations previously reported as belonging to the same assimineid species, variably referred to as Assiminea capensis, A. ovata, or A. bifasciata, has revealed that the St Lucia assemblage actually comprises two very distinct taxa, A. cf. capensis and a species provisionally referred to here as “A.” aff. capensis or simply Assimineidae sp. In the mangroves, the climbing whelk Cerithidea decollata is still found in numbers, while ellobiids such as Cassidula labrella, Melampus semiaratus and M. parvulus are present in low abundances and all previously recorded littorinids have disappeared. A number of alien freshwater species have colonized areas of the system that have remained under low salinity. These include the invasive thiarid Tarebia granifera, which can be found in concentrations exceeding 5000 ind.m-2, the lymnaeid Pseudosuccinea columella and the physid Aplexa marmorata.
["Mollusca"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

New records of fish parasitic isopods of the gill-attaching genus Mothocya Costa, in Hope, 1851 from the Virgin Islands, Caribbean, with description of a new species
Two species of Mothocya Costa, in Hope, 1851 are reported from the Virgin Islands. Mothocya xenobranchia Bruce, 1986 was collected from St. John Island from the gills of the Atlantic needlefish, Strongylura marina, which is a new locality record and also confirms a previously uncertain host identity. Mothocya bertlucy sp. n. is described from St. Thomas, St John and Guana Islands, from the gills of the redlip blenny, Ophioblennius macclurei, the first record of a blenny as host for any Mothocya. The distinguishing characters of Mothocya bertlucy sp. n. include its small size (< 9 mm) and eyes, the slender pleotelson with a narrowly rounded caudomedial point, extended uropod peduncle and uropods which do not extend past the pleotelson posterior margin, and the narrow pleon which is only slightly overlapped by pereonite 7.
["Cymothoidae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A shore-based preliminary survey of marine ribbon worms (Nemertea) from the Caribbean coast of Colombia
A checklist of benthic ribbon worm species from the Caribbean coast of Colombia is presented, including synonyms, distributions, a photographic record, and the main morphologic characters of each species for a rapid identification. This is the first research focused broadly on nemerteans in Colombia. 54 specimens of nemerteans were hand-collected from the rocky littoral of two different localities, and identified according to personal experience and specialist literature. 13 species were found; of which 11 represent new records for the country. These species belong to eight different traditionally used families: Tubulanidae, Valenciniidae, Lineidae, Amphiporidae, Cratenemertidae, Emplectonematidae, Drepanophoridae and Ototyphlonemertidae. The most common and abundant species was Dushia atra. The biodiversity of nemerteans in Colombia seems to overlap with the nemertean fauna from Florida and Brazil, explained by the convergence of the North Brazil Current, Guiana Current, Caribbean Currents and the Panama-Colombia Contracurrent in the sampled region. The results of this work suggest that the Caribbean coast of Colombia is a region with a high diversity of nemerteans, and provide important taxonomic data for environmental assessments and future biological research.
["Nemertini"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A taxonomic review of the Neoserica (sensu lato) abnormis group (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
The present paper revises the species belonging to the Neoserica (sensu lato) abnormis group, so far known only with two nominal species. Twenty new species are herein described from Indochina and southern China: N. abnormoides sp. n. (Vietnam, China), N. allolaotica sp. n., N. namthaensis sp. n., N. simplicissima sp. n. (Laos), N. thailandensis sp. n. (Thailand), N. alloputaoana sp. n., N. kanphantensis sp. n., N. natmatoungensis sp. n., N. putaoana sp. n., N. taunggyiana sp. n. (Myanmar), N. lamellosa sp. n., N. tonkinea sp. n. (Vietnam), N. bairailingshanica sp. n., N. euyunnanica sp. n., N. huangi sp. n., N. jiangxiensis sp. n., N. trifida sp. n., N. yaoi sp. n., N. yingjiangensis sp. n. (China), N. cardamomensis sp. n. (Indochina and southern China). One new combination is established: Neoserica ponderosa Arrow, 1946, comb. n. The lectotypes of Neoserica abnormis Moser, 1908 and the taxonomically uncertain N. inclinata Brenske, 1898, which very likely also belongs to this species group, are designated herein. A key to the species and to species groups is given, the genitalia of all species including their habitus are illustrated. Maps of species distribution are included.

New Chinese record of the genus Spinonychiurus (Collembola, Onychiuridae), with the description of a new species
A new collembolan species is described, Spinonychiurus sinensis sp. n., which has seven chaetae in the distal row of the tibiotarsi. It is placed in the genus Spinonychiurus due to two important characters: the two subsegments on Abd. III sternum and the absence of d0 on the head. This is the first report of the genus Spinonychiurus in China. The diagnosis of Spinonychiurus is broadened and the key to the world species is provided.

A new genus of Grapholitini from Africa related to Thaumatotibia (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)
Thaumatovalva gen. n. is described and illustrated from the Afrotropical region. As currently defined the genus includes four species: T. deprinsorum sp .n. from the Democratic Republic of Congo; T. albolineana sp .n. (type species) from the Democratic Republic of Congo; T. spinai (Razowski & Trematerra), comb. n., from Ethiopia and Nigeria; and T. limbata (Diakonoff), comb. n., from the Seychelles and Kenya. Thaumatovalva limbata has been reared from the fruit of Cordia somaliensis Baker and C. monoica Roxb. (Boraginaceae) in Kenya. Although structures of the male and female genitalia are extremely similar among three of the four species, male secondary scales on the under surface of the hindwing easily distinguish them.
["Democratic Republic of Congo"]

The ant genus Carebara Westwood (Hymenoptera, Formicidae): synonymisation of Pheidologeton Mayr under Carebara, establishment and revision of the C. polita species group
In this paper the genus Pheidologeton Mayr, 1862 is synonymized under Carebara Westwood, 1840 and the Carebara polita group is established and revised. This species group currently includes six species from the Afrotropical region (C. madibai, C. nicotianae, C. perpusilla, C. polita, C. silvestrii, and C. villiersi) and two species from the Neotropical region (C. brevipilosa and C. urichi). The polita group clearly links Carebara and Pheidologeton, and, due to a lack of autapomorphic characters for the latter, a separation of the two genera is no longer justified. As a result Carebara is presented as a monophyletic and better defined genus that can be separated from other genera with more confidence. We present an overview of the distribution and biology of Carebara as well as images from the various genera currently in synonymy under Carebara, and discuss the characters they share. The polymorphism present in Afrotropical and Malagasy Carebara is discussed and one new species from Africa, C. madibai sp. n., is described. The subspecies Carebara perpusilla arnoldiana syn. n., Carebara perpusilla concedens syn. n., and Carebara perpusilla spinosa syn. n. are new synonyms of Carebara perpusilla. Oligomyrmex politus nicotianae is re-elevated to species level and transferred into Carebara, C. nicotianae comb. n., stat. rev.; C. punctata is a new synonym of C. silvestrii comb. n. and C. pygmaea albipes comb. n., syn n., C. pygmaea bugnioni comb. n., syn. n., and C. simularensis syn. n. are new synonyms of C. pygmaea comb. n.. The following names are transferred from Pheidologeton to Carebara as new combinations (with the species epithets adjusted to female endings where necessary): aberrans, affinis, affinis javana, affinis minor, affinis spinosior, affinis sumatrensis, ceylonensis, dentiviris, diversa, diversa draco, diversa ficta, diversa laotina, diversa macgregori, diversa philippina, diversa standfussi, diversa taprobanae, diversa tenuirugosa, diversa williamsi, hammoniae, hostilis, kunensis, latinoda, maccus, mayri, melanocephala, melasolena, nana, nanningensis, obscura, petulens, pullata, pungens, pygmaea, rubra, rugiceps, rugosa, schossnicensis, silena, silvestrii, solitaria, transversalis, trechideros, varia, vespilla, volsellata, yanoi, and zengchengensis. Three new combinations are creating secondary junior homonyms and are here replaced with new names: C. mayri (Santschi, 1928) = C. gustavmayri nom. n., C. rugosa (Karavaiev, 1935) = C. rugoflabella nom. n., and C. silvestrii (Wheeler, 1929b) = C. luzonensis nom.n. Two new combinations are creating secondary junior homonyms among species already in Carebara: C. taprobanae (Forel, 1911a) = C. sinhala nom. n., and C. nana Santschi, 1919 = C. pumilia nom. n.
["Carebara"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Two new species of Neoperla (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from Dabie Mountains of China
Two new species of the stonefly genus Neoperla, N. nigromarginata sp. n. and N. similiflavescens sp. n., are described from Dabie Mountains of Central China in the Liankangshan National Nature Reserve. The new species are compared with related congeners.
["Plecoptera"]

A new species of Gastrosaccus Norman, 1868 (Mysida, Mysidae, Gastrosaccinae) from a sandy shore of Indonesia
A new species of the mysid crustacean genus Gastrosaccus Norman, 1868 (Mysida, Mysidae, Gastrosaccinae) is reported from a sandy shore of Lombok Island, Indonesia. These specimens resemble G. sorrentoensis Wooldridge & McLachlan, 1986 and G. yuyu Bamber and Morton, 2012 by the possession of an articulated process on the fifth abdominal somite together with a fringe of spine-like filaments on the posterodorsal margin of the carapace. The Lombok population differs from the known congeners bycomparatively fewer numbers of carpopropod segments on the endopod of the third to eighth thoracic limbs and the conformation in the telson and in the male third pleopod. Hence, G. lombokiensis sp. n. is proposed herein as a third species of “G. sorrentoensis” species group.
["Mysid shrimp"]

The sequoia-loving sprite, a new genus and species of fungus gnat (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) from California
California is one of the most biologically diverse regions of the world, yet the diversity of fungus gnats (Mycetophilidae) remains largely undocumented within the state. A modest survey of these flies has led to the discovery of a new genus and species of gnat that lives alongside one of the most iconic trees in the world, the giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum). Spritella sequoiaphila gen. et sp. n. is described and illustrated and its status among other mycetophilid genera is analyzed and discussed.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Taxonomic revision of the East Asian genus Scleropteroides Colonnelli, 1979 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Ceutorhynchinae)
The genus Scleropteroides Colonnelli, 1979 (Ceutorhynchinae: Scleropterini) was revised on the basis of detailed morphological observations. The genus was redefined to include three species from East Asia: S. hypocrita (Hustache, 1916) is redescribed and recorded from northeastern China and northern Korea for the first time; S. horridulus (Voss, 1958) is redescribed with new records from southern Korea; S. insularis Voss, 1971 was moved from synonymy with S. hypocrita to that with S. horridulus (syn. n.), and S. longiprocessus Huang & Yoshitake, sp. n. is described as new, sympatric with S. hypocrita in Japan. All the species are associated with woody Rubus species (Rosaceae). A key to species, habitus photographs, illustrations of important characters, and distribution maps are provided for each species.
["Rubus"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The genus Cephaloleia Chevrolat, 1836 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae)
The species of the Neotropical genus Cephaloleia Chevrolat, 1836 are revised. We present a key to the known larvae of Cephaloleia (8 species), a key to the 95 species known to occur in Mexico, Central America and the West Indies, and a key to the 138 species known to occur in South America. All identification keys were translated to Spanish. Descriptions for the 214 known species of Cephaloleia as well as illustrations for 212 species are presented. The following species are removed from Cephaloleia: C. bipartita Pic, 1926c is transferred to Hybosispa Weise, 1910; C. minasensis Pic, 1931 and C. viridis Pic, 1931 are transferred to Stenispa Baly, 1858. The following species are described as new: C. abdita sp. n. from Brazil; C. amba sp. n. from Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru; C. angustacollis sp. n. from Ecuador; C. brevis sp. n. from French Guiana; C. calathae sp. n. from Costa Rica; C. chica sp. n. from Peru; C. conforma sp. n. from Costa Rica; C. crenulata sp. n. from Ecuador; C. gemma sp. n. from Bolivia and Brazil; C. horvitzae sp. n. from French Guiana; C. interrupta sp. n. from Costa Rica; C. kressi sp. n. from Costa Rica; C. lenticula sp. n. from Ecuador, French Guiana, Peru, and Suriname; C. nana sp. n. from Ecuador; C. ochra sp. n. from Ecuador; C. stainesi sp. n. from Costa Rica; and C. susanae sp. n. from Brazil and Ecuador. Cephaloleia simoni Pic, 1934 is treated as Incertae sedis. The larvae of C. erichsonii Baly, 1858 and C. puncticollis Baly, 1885 are described and illustrated.
["Cephaloleia"]

A new species of the Boophis rappiodes group (Anura, Mantellidae) from the Sahamalaza Peninsula, northwest Madagascar, with acoustic monitoring of its nocturnal calling activity
A new species of treefrog of the Boophis rappiodes group (Anura, Mantellidae) is described from the Sahamalaza – Iles Radama National Park in northwest Madagascar. This new species is green in colour with bright red speckling across its head and dorsum; similar in morphology to other species of this group including: B. bottae, B. rappiodes, B. erythrodactylus and B. tasymena. The new species can be distinguished by its advertisement call and by a genetic divergence of more than 4.9% in the analysed mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene fragment. Its call consists of two note types: a trill and a click; although similar sounding to B. bottae, the trill note of the new species has a faster pulse rate while the click note is predominantly two-pulsed rather than three. All individuals were detected from the banks of two streams in Ankarafa Forest. The new species represents the only member of the B. rappiodes group endemic to Madagascar’s western coast, with the majority of other members known from the eastern rainforest belt. Despite its conspicuous call, it has not been detected from other surveys of northwest Madagascar and it is likely to be a local endemic to the peninsula. The ranges of two other amphibian species also appear restricted to Sahamalaza, and so the area seems to support a high level of endemicity. Although occurring inside a National Park, this species is highly threatened by the continuing decline in the quality and extent of its habitat. Due to these threats it is proposed that this species should be classified as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List criteria.

The description of a new species of the Neotropical land crab genus Gecarcinus Leach, 1814 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura, Gecarcinidae)
In this contribution a new species of the land crab genus Gecarcinus Leach, 1814, from the Neotropical Pacific coast of South America is described and illustrated. In addition to its unique body color, Gecarcinus nobilii sp. n. is distinguished from congeners by a distinctly wider carapace front and differences in the shape of the infraorbital margin. The new species is not isolated from Gecarcinus populations from the Pacific coast of Central America by an insurmountable geographic barrier. Considering the closure of the Panamanian Isthmus as a calibration point for morphological divergence between the trans-isthmian mainland populations of Gecarcinus, the virtual lack of morphological differentiation (other than color) between them and the distinctness of G. nobilii sp. n. suggests that G. nobilii sp. n. evolved from a common ancestor before the Isthmus closed.
["Brachyura"]

Three new species of the millipede genus Tylopus Jeekel, 1968 from Thailand, with additional notes on the species described by Attems (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Tylopus currently comprises 55 species, including three new from Thailand: T. corrugatus sp. n., T. trigonum sp. n. and T. parahilaroides sp. n. A new distribution map and an updated key to all 29 species of Tylopus presently known to occur in Thailand are given. Illustrated redescriptions of all four Indochinese Tylopus species described by Carl Attems are also provided, based on type material.

Description of the male of Tityus kuryi Lourenço, 1997 and notes about males of Tityus stigmurus (Thorell, 1877) and Tityus serrulatus Lutz & Mello, 1922 (Scorpiones, Buthidae)
The male of Tityus kuryi Lourenço, 1997 is described for the first time. Despite being very similar to the female, the male presents more robust metasomal segments. Additionally, the distribution of the sexual populations of another two species of the T. stigmurus complex is reported herein: T. serrulatus Lutz & Mello, 1922 and T. stigmurus (Thorell, 1877). Males of T. serrulatus were, until now, restricted to the Minas Gerais State (Southwestern region of Brazil), and with new records reported here, its known distribution now encompasses the Northeastern region of Brazil. Males of T. stigmurus were previously recorded only for two municipalities in the State of Bahia, and here we present eight new records for Bahia State and one for Pernambuco State. We present a key to related species of the T. stigmurus complex based on morphology and coloration pattern.
["Sexual population"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the family Carabodidae (Acari, Oribatida) VII. Redefinition of the genus Malgasodes; redescription of M. curvisetus Mahunka, 2000; and complementary description of M. hungarorum Mahunka, 2010. Phylogenetic relationships between Malgasodes, Bovicarabodes, Afticarabodes, Congocepheus and Cavaecarabodes are discussed
The genus Malgasodes is redefined; the type species M. curvisetus Mahunka, 2000, is redescribed by means of studies using optic and Scanning Electron Microsopy (SEM), and a complementary description of M. hungarorum Mahunka, 2000 is included. Comparison of genera Malgasodes Mahunka, 2000, Bovicarabodes Fernandez, Theron, Rollard, 2013a, Cavaecarabodes Fernandez, Theron, Rollard, Rodriguez Castillo, 2014, Afticarabodes Fernandez, Theron, Rollard, 2013b, and Congocepheus Balogh, 1958 is made. Problems concerning chaetotaxy, regressive evolution and neotrichy are explained and phylogenetic relationships between Malgasodes, Bovicarabodes, Afticarabodes, Congocepheus and Cavaecarabodes are discussed.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Two new species of Pergalumna (Acari, Oribatida, Galumnidae) from Costa Rica, including a key to all species of the genus from the Neotropical region
Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Pergalumna (Oribatida, Galumnidae), P. elongatiporosa sp. n. and P. striatiprodorsum sp. n., are described from leaf litter of a secondary forest in Costa Rica. Pergalumna elongatiporosa sp. n. is most similar morphologically to P. horvathorum P. Balogh, 1997 and P. sura P. Balogh, 1997, however, it differs from both by the body size, body surface ornamentation and morphology of notogastral porose areas A1 and A3. Pergalumna striatiprodorsum sp. n. is most similar morphologically to P. hawaiiensis hawaiiensis (Jacot, 1934) and P. strigulata Mahunka, 1978, however, it differs from P. hawaiiensis by the length of interlamellar setae and surface ornamentation of the prodorsum; from P. strigulata by the surface of ornamentation of the notogaster, length of interlamellar setae and morphology of bothridial setae. An identification key to known species of Pergalumna from the Neotropical region is given.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Complementary description of Colomerus novahebridensis Keifer (Acari, Eriophyidae), with a discussion about the constitution of the genus and its economic importance, and a tentative key to Colomerus Newkirk & Keifer species
Colomerus Newkirk & Keifer, 1971 is an eriophyid genus described by Newkirk and Keifer about 43 years ago, that contains species from all continents, except Antarctica. They live mostly on dicotyledonous plants. Colomerus novahebridensis Keifer, 1977 was described from coconut (Cocos nucifera L., Arecaceae) fruits from Vanuatu. A description of a Thai population of this species is given in this paper. A revised characterization of Colomerus and a dichotomous key for the separation of the species presently considered to belong to this genus are provided, and a consideration about the importance of Colomerus species is presented.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

Three new cecidogenous species of Palaeomystella Fletcher (Lepidoptera, Momphidae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest
Three new cecidogenous species of Palaeomystella Fletcher (Lepidoptera, Momphidae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest are described. Larvae of P. fernandesi Moreira & Becker, sp. n., P. rosaemariae Moreira & Becker, sp. n. and P. tavaresi Becker & Moreira, sp. n. induce galls, respectively, on Tibouchina sellowiana (Cham.) Cogn., T. asperior (Cham.) Cogn. and T. fissinervia (Schrank & Mart. ex DC.) Cogn. (Melastomataceae). Adults, immature stages and galls are illustrated, and data on life history and a preliminary analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences, including related species, are also provided.
["Melastomataceae"]

A new species of Trichieurina (Diptera, Chloropidae) with a key to the world species of the genus
Trichieurina haladai sp. n. (Diptera, Chloropidae), is described from Zambia. All known Trichieurina species are keyed and main differential characters are illustrated.
["Trichieurina"]

The type material of Mantodea (praying mantises) deposited in the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, USA
The collection of Mantodea of the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, includes 26 holotypes, 7 allotypes, 4 lectotypes, 23 paratypes, and 1 paralectotype. Four type specimens were designated as lectotypes within this work. Highly accurate measurement data, high resolution images of specimens and labels, verbatim label data, georeferenced coordinates, original and newly assigned database codes, and bibliographic data are presented for all primary types. Label data for all paratype specimens in the collection are provide in tabular form. The location of the USNM collection has been moved to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History as a loan under the Off-site Enhancement Program.
["Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Pachyseris inattesa sp. n. (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Scleractinia): a new reef coral species from the Red Sea and its phylogenetic relationships
A new scleractinian coral species, Pachyseris inattesa sp. n., is described from the Red Sea. Despite a superficial resemblance with some species in the agariciid genus Leptoseris with which it has been previously confused, P. inattesa sp. n. has micro-morphological characters typical of the genus Pachyseris. This genus, once part of the Agariciidae, is comprised of five extant species and is widely distributed throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific. It is currently incertae sedis as a result of recent molecular analysis and appears to be closely related to the Euphylliidae. A molecular phylogenetic reconstruction including P. inattesa sp.n., the genus type species P. rugosa, and P. speciosa, all present in the Red Sea, was performed using the mitochondrial intergenic spacer between COI and 16S-rRNA. The results confirm that P. inattesa sp. n. is a monophyletic lineage closely related to the other Pachyseris species examined.
["Pachyseris rugosa"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

When mtDNA COI is misleading: congruent signal of ITS2 molecular marker and morphology for North European Melanostoma Schiner, 1860 (Diptera, Syrphidae)
The northern European taxa of genus Melanostoma Schiner, 1860 (Syrphidae, Diptera) are revised. A longstanding question concerning the number of Melanostoma taxa occurring in northern Europe prompted us to contrast and compare their morphological and molecular variability. Particular uncertainty concerned the putative existence of a sibling species of Melanostoma mellinum, and the identity of the taxon Melanostoma dubium in northern Europe due to existence of morphologically similar dark forms of M. mellinum in the northern parts of its distributional range. Partial sequences of two DNA markers, the mitochondrial protein-coding gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI-3') and the nuclear second internal transcribed spacer (ITS2) were analysed separately under parsimony. The obtained COI-3'gene fragment showed taxon-specific haplotypes and haplotypes that were shared among the taxa. The ITS2 sequences presented genotypes unique to each species, and congruence with our independently established taxonomic entities. Based on congruent signal of the ITS2 sequences and study of morphological characters we establish the presence of four taxa in northern Europe: Melanostoma mellium (= M. dubium nec auctt., syn. n.), M. certum sp. n. (= M. dubium auctt.), M. mellarium stat. n. (= M. mellinum auctt. partim) and M. scalare. Lectotype designations were made for Musca mellina, Syrphus mellarius and Melanostoma mellinum var. melanatus.The following synonymies were established: Melanostoma mellarium = Melanostoma melanatum syn. n.; Melanostoma mellinum = Scaeva dubia syn. n., Melanostoma tschernovi syn. n., and Melanostoma clausseni syn. n. Morphological circumscriptions of the taxa and an identification key are presented.
["Melanostoma"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Infectious Diseases and Mycology"]

Two new species of the genus Teredorus Hancock, 1906 (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae) from China, with a key to the species of the genus
Taxonomy of a tetrigid genus Teredorus Hancock is reviewed. Two new species, Teredorus parvipulvillus sp.n. and Teredorus hunanensis sp. n. are described from China and an updated identification key to all known species of the genus is given, as well as brief comments on phylogenetic relationships, biology and ecology.
["Caelifera"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Three new species of the subgenus Neoribates (Neoribates) (Acari, Oribatida, Parakalummidae) from Nepal
Three new parakalummid mites of the subgenus Neoribates (Neoribates), N. (N.) parabulanovae sp. n., N. (N.) paramacrosacculatus sp. n. and N. (N.) pararotundus sp. n., are described from Nepalese soils. Neoribates (Neoribates) parabulanovae sp. n. is morphologically most similar to N. (N.) bulanovae Grishina, 2009, N. (N.) rotundus Aoki, 1982 and N. (N.) setiger Balogh & Mahunka, 1978, however, it differs from N. (N.) bulanovae by the body length, body and leg integument, morphology of bothridial setae, absence of aggenital setae, length of interlamellar setae and location of adanal setae ad3; from N. (N.) rotundus by the body size, body integument, morphology of bothridial setae and length of interlamellar setae; from N. (N.) setiger by the body size, number of genital setae and absence of aggenital setae. Neoribates (Neoribates) paramacrosacculatus sp. n. is morphologically most similar to N. (N.) macrosacculatus Aoki, 1966, however, it differs from the latter by the body size, body integument, length and morphology of bothridial setae, number of genital setae, absence of lamellar setae and length of interlamellar setae. Neoribates (Neoribates) pararotundus sp. n. is morphologically most similar to N. (N.) rotundus, however, it differs from the latter by the number of notogastral setal alveoli, body integument and length of interlamellar setae.

A new species of Ovabunda (Octocorallia, Xeniidae) from the Andaman Sea, Thailand with notes on the biogeography of this genus
A survey of xeniid octocorals was carried out in the waters off Southwestern Thailand in September, 2007. Microscopic investigation of the colonies revealed that three specimens belonged to the genus Ovabunda. Gross morphological examination is presented here accompanied by scanning electron micrographs of the sclerites. Molecular phylogenetic analysis showed identical genotypes at mtMutS, COI, and 28S rDNA for all three specimens and supports their generic assignment. Colony size and shape, sclerite size, and pinnule arrangement differ from nominal species of Ovabunda and thus a new species, O. andamanensis is introduced here. This work also presents a new eastern geographical record for the genus Ovabunda.
["Cnidaria"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A synopsis of the tribe Lachnophorini, with a new genus of Neotropical distribution and a revision of the Neotropical genus Asklepia Liebke, 1938 (Insecta, Coleoptera, Carabidae)
This synopsis provides an identification key to the genera of Tribe Lachnophorini of the Western and Eastern Hemispheres including five genera previously misplaced in carabid classifications. The genus Asklepia Liebke, 1938 is revised with 23 new species added and four species reassigned from Eucaerus LeConte, 1853 to Asklepia Liebke, 1938. In addition, a new genus is added herein to the Tribe: Peruphorticus gen.n. with its type species P. gulliveri sp. n. from Perú. Five taxa previously assigned to other tribes have adult attributes that make them candidates for classification in the Lachnophorini: Homethes Newman, Aeolodermus Andrewes, Stenocheila Laporte de Castelnau, Diplacanthogaster Liebke, and Selina Motschulsky are now considered to belong to the Lachnophorini as genera incertae sedis. Three higher level groups are proposed to contain the 18 recognized genera: the Lachnophorina, Eucaerina, and incertae sedis.Twenty-three new species of the genus Asklepia are described and four new combinations are presented. They are listed with their type localities as follows: (geminata species group) Asklepia geminata (Bates, 1871), comb. n., Santarém, Rio Tapajós, Brazil; (hilaris species group) Asklepia campbellorum Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., 20 km SW Manaus, Brazil, Asklepia demiti Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., circa Rio Demiti, Brazil, Asklepia duofos Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., 20 km SW Manaus, Brazil, Asklepia hilaris (Bates, 1871), comb. n., São Paulo de Olivença, Brazil, Asklepia grammechrysea Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., circa Pithecia, Cocha Shinguito, Perú, Asklepia lebioides (Bates, 1871), comb. n., Santarém, Rio Tapajós, Brazil, Asklepia laetitia Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., Leticia, Colombia, Asklepia matomena Zamorano & Erwin, sp.n., 20 km SW Manaus, Brazil; (pulchripennis species group) Asklepia adisi Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., Ilha de Marchantaria, Lago Camaleão, Brazil, Asklepia asuncionensis Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., Asunción, Río Paraguay, Paraguay, Asklepia biolat Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., BIOLAT Biological Station, Pakitza, Perú, Asklepia bracheia Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., circa Explornapo Camp, Río Napo, Cocha Shimagai, Perú, Asklepia cuiabaensis Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., Cuiabá, Brazil, Asklepia ecuadoriana Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., Limoncocha, Ecuador, Asklepia kathleenae Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., Belém, Brazil, Asklepia macrops Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., Concordia, Río Uruguay, Argentina, Asklepia marchantaria Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., Ilha de Marchantaria, Lago Camaleão, Brazil, Asklepia marituba Zamorano & Erwin, sp.n., Marituba, Ananindeua, Brazil, Asklepia paraguayensis Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., San Lorenzo, Rio Paraguay, Paraguay, Asklepia pakitza Erwin & Zamorano, sp. n., BIOLAT Biological Station, Pakitza, Perú, Asklepia pulchripennis (Bates, 1871), comb. n., Santarém, Rio Tapajós, Brazil, Asklepia samiriaensis Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., Boca del Río Samiria, Perú, Asklepia stalametlitos Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., Guayamer, Río Mamoré, Bolivia, Asklepia strandi Liebke, 1938, Guyana, Asklepia surinamensis Zamorano & Erwin, sp. n., l’Hermitage, Surinam River, Surinam, Asklepia vigilante Erwin & Zamorano, sp.n., Boca del Río Samiria, Perú. Images of adults of all 18 genera are provided.
["Amazon Basin"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Revision of the genus Hemisaprinus Kryzhanovskij, 1976 (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Saprininae)
The monophyletic genus Hemisaprinus Kryzhanovskij in Kryzhanovskij & Reichardt, 1976 is revised herein. All three species Hemisaprinus subvirescens (Ménétries, 1832), H. lutshniki (Reichardt, 1941) and H. cyprius (Dahlgren, 1981) are found to be correctly assigned to the genus and their monophyly is supported by the synapomorphy of the presence of prosternal foveae. The three species are re-described and supplemented with colour photographs as well as SEM micrographs outlining their differences. Male genitalia drawing of H. subvirescens and H. lutshniki are provided and a key to the species is given. Hemisaprinus subvirescens (Ménétries, 1832) is newly reported from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Jordan, Cyprus and Mongolia. The lectotypes and paralectotypes of the following species are designated herein: Saprinus foveisternus Schmidt, 1884, Saprinus syriacus Marseul, 1855 and Saprinus viridulus Marseul, 1855.

Taxonomic revision of the Pyrgulopsis gilae (Caenogastropoda, Hydrobiidae) species complex, with descriptions of two new species from the Gila River basin, New Mexico
We describe two new species of springsnails (genus Pyrgulopsis) for populations from the middle Fork and upper East Fork of the Gila River Basin (New Mexico) that had been previously identified as P. gilae. We also restrict P. gilae to its originally circumscribed geographic range which consists of a short reach of the East Fork Gila River and a single spring along the Gila River (below the East Fork confluence). These three species form genetically distinct lineages that differ from each other by 3.9–6.3% for mtCOI and 3.7–8.7% for mtNDI (the latter data were newly obtained for this study), and are diagnosable by shell and penial characters. Collectively the three species form a strongly supported clade that is distinguished from other congeners by the unique presence of two glandular strips on the dorsal surface of the penial filament. These findings suggest that the conservation status of P. gilae, which was recently removed from the list of candidates for listing as endangered or threatened by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, should be revisited and that the two new species may also merit protective measures given their narrow geographic ranges.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Status of the enigmatic Oriental genus Rhithrogeniella Ulmer, 1939 (Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae)
Based on historic collections and new material from Sumatra and Java, the species Rhithrogeniella ornata Ulmer, 1939, type species of the genus Rhithrogeniella, is reinvestigated. The nymph is described for the first time and is closely related to the continental Southeast Asian species Rhithrogeniella tonkinensis Soldán and Braasch, 1986. Rhithrogeniella belongs to the subfamily Ecdyonurinae, and is related to the genera Nixe Flowers, 1980 and/or Paracinygmula Bajkova, 1975 based on characters of the nymphal stage. Species described from Taiwan in the genus Nixe are transferred to the genus Rhithrogeniella: Rh. littoralis (Kang and Yang, 1994) comb. n., Rh. mitifica (Kang and Yang, 1994) comb. n. and Rh. obscura (Kang and Yang, 1994) comb. n.
["Rhithrogeniella ornata"]

Milnesium berladnicorum sp. n. (Eutardigrada, Apochela, Milnesiidae), a new species of water bear from Romania
In a lichen sample collected from a tree in Bârlad town (Vaslui County, Romania), a new tardigrade species belonging to the genus Milnesium (granulatum group) was found. Milnesium berladnicorum sp. n. is most similar (in the type of dorsal sculpture) to Milnesium beasleyi Kaczmarek et al., 2012 but differs from it mainly bya different claw configuration and some morphometric characters. Additionally, the new species differs from other congeners of the granulatum group by the different type of dorsal sculpture, claw configuration and some morphometric characters.
["Europe"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

A new species of Chiasmocleis (Microhylidae, Gastrophryninae) from the Atlantic Forest of Espírito Santo State, Brazil
Among Neotropical microhylids, the genus Chiasmocleis is exceptionally diverse. Most species of Chiasmocleis were described in recent years based on external morphology, but recent studies using molecular data did not support the monophyly of the species groups clustered based on feet webbing. Furthermore, a phylogeographic study of C. lacrimae estimated high genetic divergence and low gene flow among populations across small geographic ranges. Increasing the molecular and geographic sampling, and incorporating morphological data, we identified new cryptic species. Herein, we used novel genetic and morphological data to describe a new species of Chiasmocleis.
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

New records of the genus Iporhogas Granger (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Rogadinae) from Vietnam, with description of four new species
The genus Iporhogas Granger, 1949 (Braconidae: Rogadinae) is recorded for the first time for Vietnam. Four new species of the genus Iporhogas, viz. Iporhogas albilateralis sp. n., I. contrastus sp. n., I. simulatus sp. n. and I. tricoloratus sp. n., from Vietnam are described and illustrated, and additionally, one species, Iporhogas guangxiensis Chen & He, 1997, is newly recorded for Vietnam’s fauna of the family Braconidae. A key to the five Vietnamese species of the genus Iporhogas and a checklist with distributions of the ten species are provided.

Diversity of Manota Williston (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) in Ulu Temburong National Park, Brunei
A total of 15 species of Manota Williston, 1896 are recorded from Brunei, based on the investigations in 2013-2014. Thirteen species are recorded from Ulu Temburong National Park and three species from the Universiti Brunei Darussalam Campus in Tungku. Six species are described as new to science: Manota belalongensis sp. n., M. kaspraki sp. n., M. macrothrix sp. n., M. megachaeta sp. n. and M. pileata sp.n. from Ulu Temburong, and M. ricina sp. n. from Tungku. New records of the following species are given: Manota bifida Hippa & Papp, M. bruneiensis Hippa & Ševčík, M. hyboloma Hippa & Ševčík, M. oligochaeta Hippa, M. pappi Hippa, M. perangulata Hippa & Ševčík, M. pollex Hippa, M. procera Hippa and M. simplex Hippa.

Description of adult and third instar larva of Trichostetha curlei sp. n. (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae) from the Cape region of South Africa
A new high altitude montane species of Trichostetha Burmeister, 1842 is described from the Elandsberg range of the Western Cape interior. This represents the 14th species of the genus and the first to be reported with a description of its larva. It is a significant addition to the growing number of species that exhibit no adult feeding behaviour and a short period of activity restricted to the onset of summer. Larvae dwell in rock crevices, feeding on decomposing plant matter. The genus Trichostetha is heterogeneous and the complex variability observed in some species, especially T. capensis (Linnaeus, 1767), requires the re-instatement of taxa that were recently synonymised. Thus, T. bicolor Péringuey, 1907 is here re-proposed as a separate species and T. capensis hottentotta (Gory & Percheron, 1833) as a separate subspecies. Conversely, T. alutacea Allard, 1994 is recognised as a dark variety of T. signata (Fabricius, 1775) and is, consequently, synonymised with this species.
["Scarabaeidae"]

A new species of the cleptoparasitic bee genus Thyreus from northern Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
A new species of cleptoparasitic bee of the genus Thyreus Panzer (Apinae: Melectini) is described and figured from northern Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia. Thyreus shebicus Engel, sp. n. is a relatively small species superficially similar to the widespread and polytypic species T. ramosus (Lepeletier de Saint Fargeau) and T. ramosellus (Cockerell) but more closely allied to various African forms on the basis of the male genitalia. The species is distinguished from its congeners on the basis of coloration pattern, male hind leg structure, and particularly male terminalia.

Sarandibrinus, a new genus of Saprininae subfamily from Madagascar (Coleoptera, Histeridae) (Second contribution to the knowledge of the Histeridae of Madagascar)
Sarandibrinus araceliae, a new genus and species of the Saprininae subfamily is described from southern Madagascar. The new taxon exhibits autapomorphic characters for the Saprininae subfamily and is unusual especially for its large and deep prosternal foveae and the shape of spiculum gastrale. The description is accompanied by color habitus images, SEM micrographs, mouthparts and antenna line drawings and drawings of the male genitalia. Key to the genera of the Saprininae of Madagascar and the adjacent archipelagos is given. Hypocaccus (Baeckmanniolus) rubiciliae (Lewis, 1899) is newly reported from Madagascar and Hypocaccus (Nessus) perparvulus (Desbordes, 1916) is new to Mauritius.
["Sarandibrinus"]

Intertidal and nearshore Nereididae (Annelida) of the Falkland Islands, southwestern Atlantic, including a new species of Gymnonereis
The intertidal and nearshore Nereididae of the Falkland Islands are detailed and a new species of Gymnonereis described. The new species, Gymnonereis tenera sp. n., is the first record of the genus for the Falkland Islands. It is, so far, only known from a few intertidal locations in fine and muddy sands. Main distinguishing characters are: jaw teeth absent (in adults), 3 papillae in Area V–VI, falcigers absent, second ventral cirrus present throughout. Nereis atlantica McIntosh, 1885, known only from the description of a single specimen and one doubtful record from the Falkland Islands, is reviewed and transferred to Perinereis on the basis of the presence of shield-shaped bars in Area VI of the proboscis and the absence of notopodial falcigers. A key to all seven species discussed is provided.

The genus Spathius Nees (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Doryctinae) in Mexico: occurrence of a highly diverse Old World taxon in the Neotropics
Two new species of the parasitoid wasp genus Spathius Nees (Braconidae: Doryctinae) from Mexico, S.mexicanus sp. n. and S. chamelae sp. n., are described and illustrated. These represent the second and third described species of this highly diverse Old World genus in the Neotropics, and the first described species recorded for the Mexican territory.
["Ectoparasitoids"]

Revision of the East Mediterranean Orthomus (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Pterostichini), with description of Parorthomus gen. n. socotranus sp. n. from Socotra Island and key to the Old World genera of subtribe Euchroina
The East Mediterranean species of Orthomus Chaudoir, 1838 are revised. The type series of Feronia longula Reiche & Saulcy, 1855, F. berytensis Reiche & Saulcy, 1855, F. proelonga Reiche & Saulcy, 1855, Orthomus longior Chaudoir, 1873, O. sidonicus Chaudoir, 1873, and O. berytensis akbensis Mateu, 1955 were studied and lectotypes for the first four are designated. Also, the following nomenclatural acts are proposed: Feronia proelonga Reiche & Saulcy, 1855, syn. n. of Orthomus berytensis (Reiche & Saulcy, 1855); Feronia elongata Chaudoir, 1859, syn. n. of Orthomus berytensis (Reiche & Saulcy, 1855); Orthomus sidonicus Chaudoir, 1873, syn. n. of Orthomus longior Chaudoir, 1873; Orthomus velocissimus andalusiacus Mateu, 1957, syn. n. of Orthomus velocissimus akbensis Mateu, 1955, new assignment for Orthomus berytensis akbensis Mateu, 1955. As a result, three species of the genus inhabit the East Mediterranean biogeographical region: O. berytensis, O. longior, and O. longulus. A key to these three species is given. O. longior is recorded for Turkey and Syria for the first time. In addition, a new synonymy of two West Mediterranean taxa is proposed: O. szekessyi (Jedlička, 1956), syn. n. of O. balearicus Piochard de la Brûlerie, 1868, and a new genus and a species are described: Parorthomus gen. n. socotranus sp.n. (type locality: Republic of Yemen, Socotra Archipelago, Socotra Island, Fimihin env., 530 m.a.s.l.). Illustrations of the species dealt with here are provided including external characters, habitus, mentum and submentum, and genitalia are provided.Nine genera of the “African Series” of subtribe Euchroina Chaudoir, 1874 are keyed for the first time. Checklists of the species of Orthomus and of the Old World euchroine genera are given.

Re-description of Xysticus bimaculatus L. Koch, 1867 (Araneae, Thomisidae) and characterization of its subsocial lifestyle
Spiders have become an important model to study the evolution of sociality, but a lack of their detailed natural history and taxonomy hinders broader comparative studies. Group-living crab spiders (Thomisidae) provide an excellent contrast to other social spiders since they lack a communal capture web, which was thought to be a critical factor in the evolution of sociality. Only three non-webbuilding crab-spider species are known to be subsocial or social, all of which belong to the genus Diaea Thorell, 1869. The aim of this study is to describe the social lifestyle of Xysticus bimaculatus L. Koch, 1867 for the first time. Furthermore, we present a detailed re-description of this species and discuss its taxonomic implications. Like other subsocial crab spiders, X. bimaculatus builds nests from tree leaves. Nests contain up to 38 spiders and sometimes several adult females, indicating the species may be at a transitory stage between subsociality and permanent sociality.
["Social spider"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and animal studies"]

Taxonomy of the Nacerdes (Xanthochroa) carniolica species-group from China (Coleoptera, Oedemeridae, Nacerdini)
This paper deals with a species-group carniolica of the genus Nacerdes from China. This species-group has seven known species/subspecies in the world and two of them are known from China. Nacerdes (Xanthochroa) arcuata sp. n. is a new species belonging to carniolica group. The species were collected from Anhui (Eastern China, 30°02'17.37"N, 118°50'1.72"E). A key to the species of the species-group from China is given along with a distribution map.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

An update to the taxonomy of the genus Gastroserica Brenske (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
Based on the examination of newly collected material and additional specimens housed in Chinese collections, our knowledge of Gastroserica Brenske, 1897, is expanded. Here, seven new species are described, including habitus photographs and illustrations of the male genitalia: Gastroserica haoyui sp. n. (China: Zhejiang Prov.), G. fengduana sp. n. (China: Sichuan Prov.), G. wenzhui sp. n. (China: Guangxi Prov.), G. damingshanica sp. n. (from China: Guangxi Prov.), G. jinxiuensis sp. n. (China: Guangxi Prov.), G.liboensis sp. n. (China: Yunnan Prov.) and G. carolusi sp. n. (Laos). Additionally, we provide a distribution map of the new taxa and new distribution records of the known taxa.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Review of the genus Fontidessus Miller & Spangler, 2008 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Bidessini) with description of four new species
The genus Fontidessus Miller & Spangler, 2008 (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae: Hydroporinae: Bidessini) is reviewed. The genus now includes seven species with three previously described, and four new species described here: F. microphthalmus Miller & Montano, sp. n.; F. bettae Miller & Montano, sp. n.; F. christineae Miller & Montano, sp. n., and F. aquarupe Miller & Montano, sp. n. Each species is diagnosed and described, including the previously known species, based on new specimens and new information. Habitus, male genitalia and other diagnostic features are illustrated for each species. A key to the seven species is provided. Fontidessus species are unique to hygropetric habitats in the Guiana Shield craton of northern South American.
["Guiana Shield"]

The taxonomy and diversity of Platerodrilus (Coleoptera, Lycidae) inferred from molecular data and morphology of adults and larvae
The Oriental neotenic net-winged beetles attracted attention of biologists due to conspicuous large-bodied females; nevertheless phylogenetic relationships remain contentious and only a few species are known in both the fully metamorphosed males and neotenic females. The phylogenetic analyses and morphology of larvae and adults provide data for investigation of relationships and species delineation. Platrilus Kazantsev, 2009, Platerodriloplesius Wittmer, 1944, and Falsocalochromus Pic, 1942 are synonymized to Platerodrilus Pic, 1921. Platrilus hirtus (Wittmer, 1938) and Pl. crassicornis (Pic, 1923) are transferred to Platerodrilus Pic, 1921. Platerodrilus hoiseni Wong, 1996 is proposed as a junior subjective synonym of Falsocalochromus ruficollis Pic, 1942. Platerodrilus is divided in three species-groups: P. paradoxus, P. major, and P. sinuatus groups defined based on the shape of genitalia and molecular phylogeny. The following species are described: Platerodrilus foliaceus sp. n., P. wongi sp. n. (P. paradoxus group); P. ngi sp. n., P. wittmeri (P. major group), P. ijenensis sp. n., P. luteus sp. n., P. maninjauensis sp. n., P. montanus sp. n., P. palawanensis sp. n., P. ranauensis sp. n., P. sibayakensis sp. n., P. sinabungensis sp. n., P. talamauensis sp.n., and P. tujuhensis sp. n. (P. sinuatus group). P. korinchiana robinsoni Blair, 1928 is elevated to the species rank as P. robinsoni Blair, 1928, stat. n. The conspecific semaphoronts are identified using molecular phylogeny for P. foliaceus sp. n., P. tujuhensis sp. n., P. montanus sp. n., P. maninjauensis sp. n.; additional female larvae are assigned to the species-groups. Diagnostic characters are illustrated and keys are provided for P. paradoxus and P. major groups.
["Oriental Region"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Three new species from the subfamily Phyllocoptinae (Acari, Trombidiformes, Eriophyidae) in Iran
Three new eriophyid species (Phyllocoptinae), Shevtchenkella denticulata sp. n., Notallus pestehae sp. n. and Echinacrus ruthenicus sp. n., were described from Eryngium thyrsoideum Boiss. (Apiaceae), Pistacia vera L. (Anacardiaceae) and Lycium ruthenicum Murray (Solanaceae), respectively. All the three new species were collected from southwest of the East Azerbaijan province, Iran in 2011. It is the first record of an eriophyoid mite collected from E. thyrsoideum and L. ruthenicum and the first record of Notallus from Anacardiaceae plant family.
["East Azerbaijan"]

A survey of East Palaearctic Gnaphosidae (Araneae). 2. Two new Gnaphosa Latreille, 1804 species from Western Mongolia
Two new species: Gnaphosa khovdensis sp. n. (♂) and G. esyunini sp. n. (♂♀) are described from Khovd Aimag of Mongolia. Descriptions, figures, diagnosis and map of the records are provided. The new species are assigned to a monophyletic group together with the recently described G. ustyuzhanini Fomichev et al., 2013.
["Spiders"]

Onychiurid species from Wanda Mountains in China, with descriptions of two new species (Collembola, Onychiuridae)
A checklist of onychiurid species from the Wanda Mountains in China is presented. Eighteen species belonging to twelve genera have been found, including two new species. Bionychiurus qinglongensis sp. n. can be easily distinguished from other known species of the genus by the absence of pseudocelli on Th. I tergum and fewer number of vesicles in postantennal organ. Onychiurus heilongjiangensis sp. n. is diagnosed by pseudocellar formulae as 32/133/33352 dorsally and 3/011/31120 ventrally, parapseudocellar formula as 0/000/111001+1m, ratio of anal spine/unguis as 0.6, unguiculus without inner basal lamella, and male ventral organ absent.

A new species of Litarachna (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Pontarachnidae) from a Caribbean mesophotic coral ecosystem
New records of pontarachnid mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico are presented. Litarachna lopezae sp. n., from substrata collected from Bajo de Sico, a mesophotic coral reef ecosystem in Mona Passage off Puerto Rico, is described as new to science. The new species was collected from nearly 70 m depth, the greatest depth from which pontarachnid mites have been found until now. In addition, a Litarachna sp. was also found in association with the tube of the polychaete Sabellastarte magnifica (Shaw, 1800) at the shallow waters of north Puerto Rico.
["Water mites"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

A new and aberrant species of Dugesia (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae) from Madagascar
In this paper we report a new species of Dugesia of the family Dugesiidae from Madagascar, representing the fourth species of freshwater planarian known from this global biodiversity hotspot. In some respects the new species is aberrant, when compared with its congeners, being characterized by a head with smoothly rounded auricles, a peculiar course of the oviducts, including the presence of a common posterior extension, and by the asymmetrical openings of the vasa deferentia at about halfway along the seminal vesicle. Further, it is characterized by a ventral course of the ejaculatory duct with a terminal opening, very long spermiducal vesicles and unstalked cocoons. Its diploid chromosome complement with 18 chromosomes represents an uncommon feature among fissiparous species of Dugesia.
["Tricladida"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

An interactive multi-entry key to the species of Megalostomis Chevrolat, with description of a new species from Paraguay (Chrysomelidae, Cryptocephalinae)
The main goal of this contribution is to release an interactive multi-entry key to all known species of the genus IChevrolat. This key constitutes a new tool created to aid the identification of the species of this diverse genus, which occasionally may be difficult to identify to the species-level, due to the lack of reference collections for most countries within its distribution range, and to the presence of intra-specific variation and secondary sexual characters. It is expected that this on-line key will facilitate future periodic updates, and will benefit all those persons interested in identifying these taxa. The present paper also includes the description of Megalostomis juanenrique sp. n., a new species from Paraguay. In addition, Megalostomis gigas Lacordaire, and Megalostomis robustipes Monrós are newly cited for the fauna of Paraguay. The online interactive Lucid key is available at http://keys.lucidcentral.org/keys/v3/megalostomis. Offline Lucid data files in LIF and SDD formats are also available at doi: 10.3897/zookeys.425.7631.app1 and doi: 10.3897/zookeys.425.7631.app2.
["Lucid interactive key"]

A new species of Dendrocerus (Hymenoptera, Megaspilidae) from southern Brazil
A new species of the megaspiline genus IRatzeburg is described and figured. Dendrocerus riograndensis sp. n., is known from a series of males from the central region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and were captured with Malaise traps from an agricultural tobacco field.
["Ceraphronoidea"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Paramunida Baba, 1988 from the Central Pacific Ocean and a new genus to accommodate P. granulata (Henderson, 1885)
The genus Paramunida belongs to the most diverse family of galatheoids and it is commonly reported from the continental slope across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Examination of material collected by the NOAA RV Townsend Cromwell Cruise near Christmas (Kiritimati) Island, Kiribati, revealed the existence of a new species of Paramunida (P. haigae), which represents the fourth record of the genus for the Central Pacific. Furthermore, recent efforts to unravel phylogenetic relationships and diversification patterns in Paramunida revealed P. granulata (Henderson, 1885) to be the most basally diverging taxon within the genus. This species is clearly distinguished from other species of Paramunida by the spinulation of the carapace and the length of the distomesial spine of the second antennal peduncle article, which in combination with a high level of genetic divergence suggest that this species represents a separate monotypic lineage. A new genus, Hendersonida gen. n., is proposed to accommodate this species based on morphological and molecular evidence. An updated dichotomous identification key for all species of Paramunida is presented.

A new species of pterodectine feather mites (Acarina, Analgoidea, Proctophyllodidae) from the Little Spiderhunter Arachnothera longirostra (Passeriformes, Nectariniidae) in Meghalaya, India
The article describes a new species of the feather mite subfamily Pterodectinae from the Little Spiderhunter Arachnothera longirostra Temminck, 1826 (Passeriformes, Nectariniidae) in India. Pedanodectes angustilobus sp. n. differs from all known Pedanodectes species byopisthosomal lobes short, at base wider than long, roughly rounded apically in males, and strongly elongated and narrowed lobar region with wide terminal appendages in females. A key to species of the genus Pedanodectes is presented.
["Pterodectinae"]

Serendipity at the Smithsonian: The 107-year journey of Rhipidocyrtus muiri Falin & Engel, new genus and species (Ripidiinae, Ripidiini), from jungle beast to valid taxon
The long and tortuous history of an enigmatic and rare new genus and species of ripidiine wedge beetle (Ripiphoridae: Ripidiinae: Ripidiini) from Borneo is discussed and the taxon described and figured as Rhipidocyrtus muiri Falin & Engel, gen. n. and sp. n. The holotype male, and only known specimen, was collected 107 years ago in Borneo but subsequent to this it was transferred among early researchers in the early 1900s. The specimen was dissected and many portions slide mounted, but these were disassociated from the pinned body for more than a generation. A happenstance encounter led to the rediscovery and reassociation of the body and slide-mounted abdomen and other sclerites in 2011, and to its eventual description herein. Ripidiine diversity is briefly discussed and comparisons made between Rhipidocyrtus and other members of the subfamily.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Descriptions of three new species of the Termitophilous tribe Termitopaediini in China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Three new species belonging to two genera of the aleocharine tribe Termitopaediini Seevers, viz., Dioxeuta rara Song & Li, sp. n., D. yunnanensis Song & Li, sp. n., and Termitopulex sinensis Song & Li, sp. n. from Baihualing Natural Reserve (Southwest China: Yunnan) are described and illustrated. This is the first record of Termitopulex Fauvel, 1899 from China.
["Termitopaediini"]

Systematic and biogeographical study of Protura (Hexapoda) in Russian Far East: new data on high endemism of the group
Proturan collections from Magadan Oblast, Khabarovsk Krai, Primorsky Krai, and Sakhalin Oblast are reported here. Twenty-five species are found of which 13 species are new records for Russian Far East which enrich the knowledge of Protura known for this area. Three new species Baculentulus krabbensis sp.n., Fjellbergella lazovskiensis sp. n. and Yichunentulus alpatovi sp. n. are illustrated and described. The new materials of Imadateiella sharovi (Martynova, 1977) are studied and described in details. Two new combinations, Yichunentulus borealis (Nakamura, 2004), comb. n. and Fjellbergella jilinensis (Wu & Yin, 2007), comb. n. are proposed as a result of morphological examination. Keys to species of the genera Fjellbergella and Yichunentulus are given. An annotated list of all species of Protura from Russian Far East is provided and discussed. Widely distributed species were not recorded in this area. This may be because of the high sensitivity of Protura to anthropogenic impact and low dispersal ability of the group.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Geological Studies and Exploration"]

Two new species of oribatid mites of Lasiobelba (Acari, Oribatida, Oppiidae) from Nepal, including a key to all species of the genus
Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Lasiobelba (Oribatida, Oppiidae), Lasiobelba (Lasiobelba) daamsae sp. n. and Lasiobelba (Antennoppia) nepalica sp. n., are described from eastern Nepal. Lasiobelba (L.) daamsae sp. n. is most similar to L. (L.) remota Aoki, 1959 and L. (L.) gibbosa (Mahunka, 1985), however, it differs from both by the anterior part of pedotecta I specifically curved, rostrum pointed and exobothridial setae not shorter than bothridial setae. Lasiobelba (Antennoppia) nepalica sp. n. is most similar to L. (A.) granulata (Mahunka, 1986), however, it differs from the latter by the larger body size, exobothridial setae longer than rostral setae and bothridial setae not longer than interlamellar setae. An identification key to known species of Lasiobelba is given.

A revision of the Neotropical species of Bolitogyrus Chevrolat, a geographically disjunct lineage of Staphylinini (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
The Neotropical species of the rarely collected genus Bolitogyrus (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Staphylininae: Staphylinini) are revised. The genus exhibits an uncommon, disjunct distribution between the Neotropical and Oriental Regions and is of unknown phylogenetic position within Staphylinini. Morphological evolution remarkable for Staphylinini was discovered within Bolitogyrus, including sexually dimorphic modifications of the pronotum that may be involved in male competition for females. rSEM interactive animations were used to establish morphological species boundaries between two highly variable species and are provided to illustrate diagnostic characters of the genitalia in unconventional views. The genus is redescribed based on the world fauna and twenty-eight Neotropical species are considered valid. Of these, nineteen are described as new to science: Bolitogyrus ashei sp. n.; B. apicofasciatus sp. n.; B. brevistellus sp. n.; B. bufo sp. n.; B. cheungi sp. n.; B. cornutus sp. n.; B. divisus sp. n.; B. falini sp. n.; B. gracilis sp. n.; B. inexspectatus sp. n.; B. longistellus sp. n.; B. marquezi sp. n.; B. newtoni sp. n.; B. pseudotortifolius sp. n.; B. pulchrus sp. n.; B. silex sp. n.; B. thomasi sp. n.; B. tortifolius sp. n.; and B. viridescens sp. n. Bolitogyrus sallei (Kraatz), stat. r. is removed from synonymy with B. buphthalmus (Erichson) and the following new synonyms are proposed: Cyrtothorax cyanescens Sharp, 1884, syn. n. = Quedius buphthalmus Erichson, 1840; C. nevermanni Scheerpeltz, 1974, syn. n. = C. costaricensis Wendeler, 1927. A summary of all available bionomic and distributional data, as well as an illustrated identification key to and diagnoses of all Neotropical species are provided.
["Staphylininae"]

Two new species of Mediomastus (Annelida, Capitellidae) from Tokyo Bay, Japan
Two undescribed species of polychaetes in Mediomastus (Annelida: Capitellidae) were collected from intertidal to shallow habitats in Tokyo Bay, Japan. These are M. duobalteus sp. n. and M. hanedaensis sp.n. Mediomastus duobalteus sp. n. is distinguishable from all congeners by the following characters: 1) segments 3, 4, 8–11 stainable with methyl green, 2) thoracic capillary chaetae unilimbate, 3) abdominal capillary chaetae absent, 4) paddle-like chaetae in the thorax absent, and 5) abdominal hooded hooks not flared. Mediomastus hanedaensis sp. n. is similar to M. warrenae Green, 2002, but differs from the latter in the shapes of the thoracic capillary chaetae and the abdominal hooded hooks, and the staining pattern with methyl green. In addition, a key to all Mediomastus species is provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

New records of bee flies (Diptera, Bombyliidae) from Cuatro Ciénegas, Coahuila, Mexico
Forty one new records of species of Bombyliidae are reported for Coahuila in northeastern Mexico. Nine of these species are reported for the first time for the country. The specimens were collected in the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin and Sierra La Madera mountains during 2007–2013. The modified distributions of species are discussed. The gaps in the distribution of many species suggest an undersampling of this group of insects in the north of Mexico.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Then there were five: a reexamination of the ant genus Paratrechina (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The ant genus Paratrechina is reexamined based on the discovery of two new species from Madagascar (P. ankarana sp. n. and P. antsingy sp. n.). Paratrechina kohli, a species known from central Africa, is transferred to Paratrechina from Prenolepis based on a new morphological interpretation of the genus and an updated morphological diagnosis of the genus is provided. This means that other than the widespread P. longicornis, whose origins remain uncertain, all Paratrechina are restricted either to the Afrotropical or Malagasy regions. It would also appear that of the five Paratrechina species now known, three are from dry forest habitats. With this reexamination of the genus, the possible origins of P. longicornis are discussed. A key to the genera of the Prenolepis genus-group is provided, as is a key to the workers of Paratrechina. In addition, we also designate a lectotype for Paratrechina kohli.

Photosymbiotic ascidians from Pari Island (Thousand Islands, Indonesia)
Photosymbiotic ascidian fauna were surveyed in the subtidal zone off Pari Island in the Thousand Islands (Java Sea, Indonesia). Nine species were recorded: Didemnum molle, Trididemnum miniatum, Lissoclinum patella, L. punctatum, L. timorense, Diplosoma gumavirens, D. simile, D. simileguwa, and D. virens. All of these species have been previously recorded in the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. Diplosoma gumavirens and D. simileguwa were originally described from the Ryukyu Archipelago in 2009 and 2005, respectively, and all of the observed species are potentially widely distributed in Indo-West Pacific coral reefs.
["Algal symbiosis"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A new apameine genus and species from the southern Appalachian Mountains, USA (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae)
Cherokeea gen. n. is proposed for a rarely collected apameine moth species from the southern Appalachian Mountains, C. attakullakulla sp. n. It is recorded from foothills and lower montane habitats of North Carolina and Georgia where hill cane, Arundinaria appalachiana Triplett, Weakley & L.G. Clark is found. Adults and their genitalia are figured and a mtDNA barcode sequence is given.
["Apameini"]

Diospyros abyssinica (Hiern) F.White (Ebenaceae), a new distributional record for Rwanda
The native vascular flora of Rwanda is currently the subject of ongoing study aimed at producing a comprehensive and up-to-date national checklist. The discovery of Diospyros abyssinica forms part of the Flora of Akagera National Park project, a focused initiative designed to document and synthesise the vascular plant diversity of this protected area in Rwanda’s Eastern Province. The ultimate objective of this project is to generate a complete and authoritative checklist of the Park’s vascular plant species, incorporating current taxonomic treatments, verified distributional data and conservation status assessments. The checklist is being developed through the integration of systematic field observations, the assembly and analysis of a comprehensive database of herbarium specimens and a critical review of relevant published and unpublished botanical literature.A new country-level record of a native vascular plant species previously unrecorded in Rwanda emerged during 2023 fieldwork inventory in the Eastern Province. Diospyros abyssinica is reported as new to the Province, where it is represented in a relict population of only 15 individuals in less than 20 hectares. Due to the species having many uses, it has been prioritised as a species for indigenous tree planting programmes.
["Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Pharmacological Effects of Medicinal Plants", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

A new species of Ocotea (Lauraceae) from Espírito Santo, Brazil
Ocotea Aubl. is the largest genus amongst the Neotropical Lauraceae, estimated to have 469 recognised species in the Americas, 183 of them occurring in Brazil, 117 being endemic to the country. In the course of preparing a treatment of Lauraceae for the Flora of Espírito Santo, Brazil, an undescribed species of Ocotea was encountered. Its description and illustrations are presented here.Ocotea vervloetii P.L.R.Moraes & L.S.Santos is a new species of Ocotea from the Atlantic Rainforest of south-eastern Brazil, collected in the Municipality of Santa Teresa, State of Espírito Santo. This new species probably belongs to the Ocotea floribunda group, since it bears relatively large male flowers ca. 7–8 mm diam., with receptacle flat, small, shallow, bowl-shaped and pistillode densely tomentose. Nevertheless, it is clearly different from other congeners in this group by presenting relatively short leaves, oblanceolate to obovate, elliptic, discolorous, coriaceous, with margin strongly revolute, adaxially glabrous to glabrescent, shiny, strongly bullate, abaxially sparsely to densely strigulose and papillose.
["Atlantic Rainforest"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae", "Plant and animal studies"]

Aiouea altomacaensis (Lauraceae), new species from the mountains of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest is one of the centres of diversity for the genus Aiouea (Lauraceae). This Neotropical genus comprises approximately 85 species, 35 of which occur in Brazil, with 24 being endemic. Based on a taxonomic review of herbarium collections and recently gathered specimens, we propose a new species of Aiouea endemic to the country and the Atlantic Rainforest.Herein, we describe and illustrate Aiouea altomacaensis. It is a medium-sized tree endemic to the State of Rio de Janeiro, southeast Brazil, specifically restricted to the mountainous region between Nova Friburgo and Petrópolis. This taxon can be confused with three others: Aiouea acarodomatifera, A. albopunctata and A. ombrophila. Aiouea altomacaensis differs from these mainly by its narrow leaves and short inflorescences. Initially, the species was assessed as Endangered (EN) under IUCN Criteria due to its restricted distribution. However, Data Deficient (DD) is a more appropriate classification until more reliable information on its actual range becomes available.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

First report of two Eriophyid mite genera (Acariformes, Eriophyidae) from Saudi Arabia with description of a new species and a key to known Cosetacus species
Two eriophyoid mite genera, Cosetacus Keifer and Neserella Meyer & Ueckermann, are reported for the first time in Saudi Arabia (SA). A new species, Cosetacus javanicus sp. nov., is described and illustrated, based on the female specimens. Two species, Cecidophyopsis vermiformis (Nalepa) and Neserella capreifoliae Meyer & Ueckermann, are newly recorded for the eriophyid mite fauna of SA. In addition, a key to known species of Cosetacus is provided.Two eriophyid mite genera, Cosetacus Keifer and Neserella Meyer & Ueckermann (Acariformes, Eriophyidae, Cecidophyinae) are herein recorded for the first time from Saudi Arabia (SA), with a new species, C. javanicus sp. nov., collected from Aerva javanica (Burm. f.) (Amaranthaceae). Moreover, two species, Cecidophyopsis vermiformis (Nalepa) collected from Conocarpus erectus (Combretaceae R. Br.), and Neserella capreifoliae Meyer & Ueckermann collected from Ficus carica (Moraceae Link), are reported as new records for the eriophyoid mite fauna of SA. The individuals of these species are vagrants on the abaxial leaf surface, causing no apparent symptoms to the host plant species. Additionally, a key to known species of Cosetacus is provided.
["genera records"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Phytochemistry and biological activities of Ficus species"]

Description of a new species of the genus Perissus Chevrolat, 1863 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae, Clytini) from China, with notes on its pollen loads composition
The genus Perissus belongs to the tribe Clytini, currently comprises 98 species and subspecies, widely distributed across the Palaearctic, Oriental and Australian Regions.A new species, Perissus jianfenglingensis Sandoval, Liu & Yang sp. nov. [尖峰岭跗虎天牛] is described from Hainan Province, China, its morphological distinctions from related species are clarified, colour plates are illustrated and the characteristics of the species are provided. Additionally, a brief description and discussion of the pollen loads composition of the examined individuals were conducted.
["Cerambycinae"]

New records and an updated herpetofaunal list from Ba Vi National Park, Vietnam
The Ba Vi National Park is located 60 km west of Hanoi, the capital city, in south Phu Tho Province (formerly Hoa Binh Province), northern Vietnam. Despite its establishment in 1991, there are not many studies on its herpetofauna. The known number of amphibian and reptile species for the National Park prior to this study is a total 66 species. However, due to the scarcity of surveys, more species were expected.Herein, we report new records of 16 amphibians and 12 reptiles from Ba Vi National Park. Our findings increase the total number of herpetofaunal species to 94, including now a total of 26 anurans, one gymnophionan, four chelonians, 18 saurians and 45 ophidians. The estimated species accumulation curve has not reached a plateau yet and thus indicates that species richness in the Park is very likely to increase in the future.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Spatial and structural characteristics of occupied nests of Calonectris borealis (Cory, 1881) in the Central Azores in 2025
The Azores Archipelago hosts approximately 75% of the global breeding population of Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis). This species faces threats ranging from habitat degradation and invasive predators to climate change, which increase the vulnerability of its breeding sites. Effective conservation and threat assessment require data on breeding habitats, yet such information remains scarce. To address this gap, we aimed to provide a standardised baseline of the spatial and structural characteristics of active nests in the Azores Region.We present a comprehensive dataset based on a field survey conducted in 2025 across 11 colonies on four islands of the Azorean Central Group (Faial, Graciosa, Pico and Terceira). The dataset characterises 421 occupied nests and includes 5,812 individual records describing nest architecture (e.g. depth, width and substrate) and local topography (e.g. slope, orientation and proximity to the coast and infrastructure). Additionally, it contains 1,380 botanical records from vegetation surveys, identifying 106 vascular plant species. All data are standardised according to Darwin Core (DwC) requirements and are publicly available through the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). This data package provides a resource for future spatial modelling and the development of targeted conservation strategies for seabirds.
["Cory's shearwater"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Diatoms (Bacillariophyta) of the Salish Sea, Northeast Pacific: annotated checklist and new species reports
Diatoms are major primary producers known to respond rapidly to environmental change, making them useful indicators for ecological assessment and monitoring. In the Salish Sea bioregion, diatom records date back to early inventories by Lord (1866) and Bailey and MacKay (1916), followed by scattered surveys throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Due to this fragmented record, a consolidated regional baseline has been lacking.We report 924 diatom taxa for the Salish Sea from historical records, voucher specimens and molecular data, forming a curated dataset of 11,469 records. Forty-two species, including six previously unreported genera, are newly recorded for the region, based on combined morphological and molecular evidence. For these taxa, including the recently described Andrzeja fenestrata, we provide taxonomic accounts with diagnostic light and electron micrographs. These data establish a baseline record of diatom diversity in the Salish Sea, setting an example for how collaboration amongst community and academic researchers can help establish data foundations for phytoplankton monitoring.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

First DNA barcode reference library of grasshoppers on the Comoros Archipelago
DNA barcoding studies utilising COI gene sequences have been widely applied in insect taxonomy for two decades and remain so. Barcode reference libraries are a valuable molecular resource for future biodiversity assessments, including standard barcoding surveys and environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches. Grasshoppers, members of the suborder Caelifera of the insect order Orthoptera, on the Comoros Islands have not yet been subject of barcoding studies, marking a clear gap in a poorly-studied region of high biodiversity and endemism. Our results illustrate both the potential and the constraints of CO1 barcodes in caeliferan systematics and highlight the importance of expanding molecular reference libraries in understudied biodiversity hotspots.We provide a first barcode reference library, including COI sequences from 22 Caelifera specimens representing 12 genera and 15 species. Nine out of 12 genera can be reliably identified using DNA barcodes. However, closely-related taxa, such as Symbellia species, were not well resolved by CO1 alone, highlighting the need for additional markers and morphological evidence. Furthermore, preliminary evidence suggests the presence of different Parepistaurus lineages on the Archipelago, potentially indicating undescribed diversity and deserving further study.
["grasshoppers"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Notes on Sarawak (Malaysian Borneo) land snails (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Pulmonata): Thirteen new species, a new genus and a first record of an introduced species
The pulmonates represent an important component of land snail biodiversity in a wide range of habitats across Borneo. Despite their presence in many ecosystems, the diversity of these organisms is still being actively documented through ongoing surveys and taxonomic work. Our study presents 13 new species, a new genus and the first records of pulmonates in Sarawak, contributing to a clearer understanding of species composition in the region.Thirteen new species of land snails are described from Sarawak, Malaysia (Borneo): Hemiplecta gambut, Vitrinula aulacotropis (Ariophantidae); Chloritis platycephala (Camaenidae); Kaliella micradelpha, K. montismulu, K. xystrota, Rahula pallidula, R. scoliostoma (Chronidae); Dyakia nitens, Everettia cryptopleura, E. micropleura, E. platyacris (Dyakiidae); and Hypselostoma stenopyrgus (Hypselostomatidae). The new genus Gleniskos (Charopidae) is introduced, two species are transferred; Gleniskos lafargei and G. sarawakensis. Finally, Mariaella dussumieri (Ariophantidae) is reported from Sarawak for the first time.

Faunistic updates on Greek ants: First record of Strumigenys membranifera (Emery, 1869) from Crete and Strumigenys baudueri (Emery, 1875) from Andros
The genus Strumigenys Smith, 1860 (Formicidae, Myrmicinae) comprises over 890 species worldwide. Strumigenys membranifera, a widely distributed tramp species, is known for its small size, thelytokous parthenogenesis and predatory behaviour.Herein, we report the first occurrence of S. membranifera from the island of Crete, Greece. Specimens were collected in olive orchard agroecosystems, located in the Messara Plain, using pitfall traps during surveys conducted in 2023 and 2024. In addition, we report the first occurrence of S. baudueri from the island of Andros, Greece, where specimens were collected from leaf litter. These records expand our knowledge of Strumigenys species on the island of Crete and the Aegean Islands and contribute to our understanding of the ecology and distribution of native and non-native members of this genus in Greece.
["Strumigenys"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Two new species of the genus Hydropsyche Pictet, 1834 (Trichoptera, Hydropsychidae) from the Middle East and Caucasus ecoregions
The knowledge about the genus Hydropsyche Pictet, 1834 in the Middle East and Caucasus ecoregions is still scarce with several species described during the past years.In this paper, we describe two new species within the Hydropsyche guttata species cluster from several localities in the Middle East and Caucasus ecoregions. Hydropsyche hindrajab sp. nov. is reported from Azerbaijan, Iran and Türkiye, while Hydropsyche fitesa sp. nov. is reported from Iran. Males of these newly-discovered species are compared with their closest congeners: Hydropsyche iranica Malicky, 1977, H. sciligra Malicky, 1977 and H. tigrata Malicky, 1974. For Hydropsyche hindrajab sp. nov., we applied an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological examination and molecular data, while Hydropsyche fitesa sp. nov. is described, based on morphological characters only. To elucidate phylogenetic and taxonomic relationships and to corroborate the distinctiveness of Hydropsyche hindrajab sp. nov., we analysed mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences and applied three species delimitation methods (ASAP, ABGD, bPTP). Although the two phylogenetic approaches yielded somewhat different topologies, all species delimitation analyses supported the recognition of Hydropsyche hindrajab sp. nov. as a distinct evolutionary lineage.This study contributes to the knowledge of the Hydropsyche fauna of the Middle East and Caucasus ecoregions and demonstrates the utility of integrative taxonomy in resolving species boundaries within morphologically close species complexes.
["Azerbaijan"]

First record of Licnophora chattoni (Ciliophora, Spirotrichea) on the sabellid worm Bispira melanostigma from marina fouling communities
Epibiosis between ciliates and feather duster worms (Sabellidae) remains poorly known and has been documented in only four species, belonging to the genera Eudistylia, Laonome, Schizobanchia and Sabella. Licnophora is a genus of ciliates whose species live as epibionts on freshwater or marine organisms, involving algae, macrophytes and a wide range of marine animals from different phyla, including amongst them polychaete worms.The tubiculous polychaete Bispira melanostigma is here reported for the first time as a component of fouling communities on a dock piling in the southern Gulf of Mexico, extending its known ecological occurrence beyond corals reefs, sand and seagrasses beds of the Caribbean Sea. In addition, ciliated epibionts attached to the radioles are reported and identified as Licnophora chattoni, constituting the first documented epibiotic association between this licnophorid ciliate and a sabellid fan worm.
["Sabellidae"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Bryophytes of Santa Maria Island (Azores, Portugal): an updated inventory
A bryophyte survey was conducted on Santa Maria Island in 2019, taking advantage of the MOVECLIM-AZO project expedition to the Island, while adding collections in different sites. The standard collection follows the Global Island Monitoring Scheme (GIMS) protocol for bryophytes across three altitudinal levels (16, 200 and 400 m a.s.l.) and substrates, while the other specimens were collected opportunistically to improve the known dataset of bryophyte occurrences in Santa Maria. Opportunistic sampling was carried out guided by taxonomic expertise, while visiting different locations between 31 and 464 m a.s.l. and exploring diverse substrates. The survey resulted in the collection of 85 species and 810 specimens (occurrence records), obtained from 264 events. This research presents a dataset that expands current knowledge about bryophyte diversity on Santa Maria Island and supports future studies.A total of 85 species were recorded on Santa Maria Island, based on 264 event records and 810 occurrence records, including 25 species newly recorded for the Island. Of these, two taxa are Azorean endemics (Rhynchostegiella azorica Hedenäs & Vanderp. and Leptoscyphus porphyrius subsp. azoricus (H.Buch & Perss.) Vanderp. & Heinrichs), one species (Calypogeia azorica Bischl.) is recognised as a Macaronesian endemic, three species (Lejeunea hibernica Bischl., H.A.Mill. & Bonner ex Grolle, Radula aquilegia (Hook.f. & Taylor) Gottsche, Lindenb. & Nees and Radula holtii Spruce) are European endemics, 18 species are classified as native and one species (Campylopus introflexus (Hedw.) Brid.) is classified as introduced.
["Azores"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Population-level transcriptomic datasets from two benthic invertebrates exposed to long-term experimental warming and acidification
Ocean warming and acidification are major drivers of change in marine ecosystems, with particularly strong impacts on low-mobility benthic organisms. Despite their ecological importance, genomic and transcriptomic resources from sponges (Phylum, Porifera) and marine gastropods (Phylum, Mollusca) that capture responses to long-term, combined climate stressors and population-level variability remain limited. Herein, we present population-level RNA-seq datasets from the sponge Chondrilla nucula and the gastropod Hexaplex trunculus, collected from northern and southern Aegean Sea (eastern Mediterranean) populations and exposed for three months to elevated temperature and reduced pH in a common-garden experiment simulating near-future climate change conditions. The datasets comprise high-quality paired-end Illumina reads, a complete de novo transcriptome assembly for C. nucula and genome-guided alignments for H. trunculus. These datasets provide a valuable resource for investigating transcriptional plasticity and climate change resilience in benthic marine invertebrates.
["climate change"]
["Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

First description of the male of Meotipa vittiforma (Araneae, Theridiidae), with a discussion of its palpal morphology
The genus Meotipa Simon, 1895 contains 33 extant species, 18 of which are known from China. However, no detalied morphological study of the expanded male palp in this genus has been conducted. Meotipa vittiforma Hu, Zhong, Liu & Li, 2026 was originally described, based on a female specimen collected from Hainan Province, China and its male remains unknown.The male of Meotipa vittiforma Hu, Zhong, Liu & Li, 2026 was identified and described for the first time herein based on the specimens collected from the forest canopies of Hubei Province, China. In addition, we discuss several unique characters of its male palp that have not been previously recorded in the "lost colulus clade".

Morphological and molecular data reveal a new spider species of the little-known Pholcus nagasakiensis species group (Araneae, Pholcidae) from the Ryukyu Archipelago
The Pholcus nagasakiensis species group is a relatively small group, comprising only five species. Of these, four species inhabit Kyushu Island in mainland Japan, the Ryukyu Archipelago and the Diaoyu Islands of China, while one additional species has been documented from Wuyishan Mountain in mainland China.Three morphologically similar species from the Ryukyu Archipelago, belonging to the Pholcus nagasakiensis species group were identified, based on an integrative approach combining morphology and molecular species-delimitation methods. These comprise one new species, namely Pholcus yajiyagama Yan, Ballarin & Yao, sp. nov., herein described, based on both sexes and two previously described species, P. nagasakiensis Strand, 1918 and P. otomi Huber, 2011. DNA barcodes were obtained for all three species to estimate p-distances and K2P distances and confirm their identifications. New diagnoses and detailed photomicroscopy images of the two previously described species, as well as a distribution map of all the species discussed, are also provided.

Checklist of the family Zopheridae (Coleoptera, Tenebrionoidea) of Bulgaria
Beetles of the family Zopheridae (Coleoptera, Tenebrionoidea) are rarely reported from Bulgaria and available data on their distribution in the country are scarce. Here, we provide an updated checklist of the family, based on published data and new records.Twenty-one species of the family Zopheridae are listed for Bulgaria. New data on the distribution of fourteen species are provided. The species Colydium noblecourti Parmain, Eckelt & Schuh, 2024 is reported for the first time for the country. The presence of the species Aulonium trisulcum (Geoffroy, 1785), A. ruficorne (G.-A. Olivier, 1790), Orthocerus clavicornis (Linnaeus, 1758), Langelandia anophthalma Aubé, 1842 and Synchita mediolanensis A. Villa & J. B. Villa, 1833 is confirmed for Bulgaria.
["Tenebrionoidea"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Integrating plot-based methods for monitoring biodiversity in island habitats under the scope of BIODIVERSA+ project BioMonI: Beetle monitoring in Pico and Terceira Islands
Oceanic island native forests have become highly fragmented and yet host a disproportionate share of endemic arthropod diversity. Long-term monitoring and conservation planning are often limited by the scarcity of standardised, plot-based datasets for key indicator taxonomic groups, such as the megadiverse beetles (Coleoptera). Under the scope of the projects EU-NETBIOME grant 0003/2011, FCT MACDIV – FCT-PTDC/BIABIC/0054/2014 and BIODIVERSA+ funded BioMonI, we compile and mobilise a baseline dataset of forest beetles from the Azores using a network of 16 permanent 50 m × 50 m native-forest plots (Pico: 6 plots; Terceira: 10 plots). Beetles were sampled with an optimised COBRA (Conservation Oriented Biodiversity Rapid Assessment) protocol complemented by beetle-targeted sampling techiques (under-bark/epiphyte and coarse woody debris/ground refugia searches), enabling repeatable and comparable monitoring across islands and through time.We provide the first Darwin Core–compliant, plot-based inventory of beetles from native forests of Pico and Terceira Islands (Azores, Portugal), delivered as a sample-event dataset with 308 event records and an associated occurrence table (539 records). Across both islands, we recorded 43 beetle morphospecies (39 taxa were identified at species or subspecies levels) from 16 families, totalling 1,787 individuals. The plots in Pico yielded 25 taxa (13 families; 620 individuals; 23 identified species and subspecies) and those in Terceira 30 taxa (10 families; 1,167 individuals; 28 identified species and subspecies). The assemblage is dominated by endemic taxa in both richness and abundance, providing a robust benchmark for detecting compositional change, supporting biogeographical analyses and informing conservation assessments and management of native forest remnants, including evaluations of recovery status for threatened endemics.
["Azores Archipelago"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Integrated dataset of satellite-derived water quality parameters and bird populations in five Ramsar Wetlands of India using Sentinel‑2 Imagery and in-situ observations
Water birds serve as particularly valuable indicators of wetland health since wetlands provide critical feeding, foraging, nesting, roosting and breeding habitats for these species. Monitoring waterbird populations over time is, therefore, essential for assessing wetland ecosystem health. To achieve this, certain wetlands are designated as Ramsar sites by identifying those with high conservation importance and implementing conservation measures.To address the critical need for integrated monitoring of wetland water quality and biodiversity, where bird populations serve as key bioindicators of environmental health and ecosystem integrity, the proposed dataset provides detailed, multi-year records of water quality parameters and bird populations across five Ramsar wetlands in India: Ashtamudi, Vembanad and Sasthamkotta in Kerala; Harike Wetland in Punjab; and Point Calimere in Tamil Nadu. The data span from 2016 to 2024 for the Kerala sites and from 2018 to 2024 for Harike Wetland and Point Calimere. Using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery combined with site-specific shapefiles, surface reflectance data for each wetland are processed and analysed. For the three Kerala wetlands, seven key water quality parameters: total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity, conductivity, pH, ammoniacal nitrogen (NH₃-N), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and dissolved oxygen (DO) were estimated by calibrating models with in-situ measurements. In Harike Wetland and Point Calimere, the focus was on chlorophyll-a (Chl_a), cyanobacteria cell concentration (Cya), turbidity, coloured dissolved organic matter (CDOM)and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Bird population data, centred on both migratory and resident water birds, are sourced from multiple resources and organisations, including eBird:, World Wide Fund for Nature – Kerala (WWF), Bird Count India, Kottayam Nature Society, Cochin Natural History Society (CNHS), Pathanamthitta Birders and Kollam Birding Battalion, to provide comprehensive insight into wetland biodiversity. By integrating geospatial, spectral, field and ecological information in correlation with bird population data, this dataset enables long-term tracking of wetland health and provides a foundation for bird occupancy prediction for researchers working in remote sensing, ecology and conservation. With the regression equation formulated from the collected dataset, the system could achieve a promising R² value, which indicates that this model can be further applied to these wetlands.
["wetland ecosystem monitoring"]
["Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Remote Sensing in Agriculture", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

First record of Obeza nigromaculata (Cameron, 1884) (Hymenoptera, Eucharitidae, Eucharitini) from Colombia, with one nomenclatural act for the species
Obeza nigromaculata (Cameron, 1884) is recorded for the first time from South America and Colombia, in a cacao-producing agroecosystem of the south-eastern region of the country. In addition, a type specimen from the Natural History Museum, London, is designated as the lectotype of the species.We provide detailed morphological characters and photographic documentation for the species Obeza nigromaculata (Cameron, 1884). One specimen of the species is recorded in an agroforestry system of Theobroma cacao L. (Malvaceae) - Cacao, Juglans neotropica (Juglandaceae) – Black cedar and Musa x paradisiaca (Musaceae) - Plantain.
["agroecosystem"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies"]

Sub-Antarctic subtidal and intertidal macroalgae in rocky ecosystems of Inútil Bay, Tierra del Fuego in Southern Patagonia
The sub-Antarctic region is notable for its high macroalgal diversity. Although a number of studies have documented the species richness of macroalgae along the Chilean sub-Antarctic coast, many regions remain underexplored, with little to no available species inventories or ecological assessments.This study aims to expand current knowledge of macroalgal species richness in the intertidal and subtidal rocky environments in Inútil Bay, a sub-Antarctic area of Tierra del Fuego (Chile). A total of 72 macroalgal taxa were identified: 32 in intertidal and 58 in subtidal habitats. A comprehensive species list is provided, accompanied by photographs of representative macroalgal species.
["benthic inventory"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Spider webs as reservoirs of culturable fungal diversity: evidence from orb-weaving Cyclosa mulmeinensis spider in Thai rice agroecosystems
Spider webs are increasingly recognised as passive environmental collectors; however, fungi remain amongst the least explored biological components associated with spider silk, particularly when examined using culture-based and taxonomically resolved approaches. In this study, we present a proof-of-concept investigation of culturable fungal diversity associated with two-dimensional, debris-decorated orb webs, constructed by the orb-weaving spider Cyclosa mulmeinensis in rice agroecosystems in Thailand. Using a standardised field-to-laboratory isolation workflow combined with genus-appropriate multilocus phylogenetic analyses, decorated orb webs were sampled as individual units from rice agroecosystems in Thailand and fungi were isolated via dilution plating on potato dextrose agar supplemented with chloramphenicol. A total of 112 fungal isolates were recovered, grouped into 45 colony morphotypes and resolved into 23 taxa across six genera: Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium and Talaromyces. Taxonomic placement was inferred primarily from multilocus phylogenetic analyses, with morphological characteristics used as supporting evidence. Notably, several isolates formed well-supported lineages within Cladosporium and Talaromyces that could not be assigned to any described species, indicating the presence of potentially undescribed taxa. These findings demonstrate that spider webs can serve as a low-impact, non-destructive substrate for accessing viable fungal diversity in agricultural ecosystems. This approach enables reproducible culture-based recovery of taxonomically informative fungal lineages and highlights the potential of spider web sampling as a complementary tool for biodiversity assessment and environmental monitoring.
["non-destructive sampling"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

The taxonomic status and range distribution of Boulenophrys shuichengensis (Anura, Megophryidae)
Boulenophrys shuichengensis (Tian & Sun, 1995) has for a long time been a subject of taxonomic ambiguity due to rare field records and a lack of molecular data from its type locality.To address this, we integrated molecular, morphological and type locality survey data: three tadpoles were collected from the type locality and seven adult males from Weixin County, Yunnan Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses using concatenated 16S rRNA and COI sequences revealed that tadpoles from the type locality together with specimens from Weixin (Yunnan), Dafang (Guizhou) and Chongqing, formed a strongly supported monophyletic clade with no significant genetic divergence (0–0.3%). Morphological comparion further showed that both the adult specimens from Weixin and tadpoles from the type locality of B. shuichengensis were consistent with the original species description. Our findings: (1) provide the first validated molecular data for B. shuichengensis from its type locality, therefore clarifying its taxonomic status, while also offering a detailed morphological account of its tadpoles.; (2) confirm Weixin as a new Yunnan distribution record, extending the species’ range northwards by ~ 200 km; (3) verify that populations from Dafang (Guizhou) and Chongqing are conspecific, indicating a wider Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau distribution. Phylogenetically, B. shuichengensis is the sister taxon to B. caudoprocta, with both species forming a clade within the B. boettgeri group.
["type locality"]

Update on the enigmatic Pteroceraphron mirabilipennis Dessart, 1981 (Hymenoptera, Ceraphronidae): description of male and first record from the Neotropics, including first DNA barcodes
Pteroceraphron is a morphologically distinct genus of ceraphronid wasps known only from few female specimens of two species, Pteroceraphron mirabilipennis Dessart, 1981 from the Nearctic Region and P. apoorva Bijoy & Rajmohana, 2021 from the Oriental Region.Our study provides the first report and description of male specimens of the genus Pteroceraphron, the first record of Pteroceraphron mirabilipennis Dessart, 1981 from the Neotropics (Costa Rica), including the first DNA barcode data, as well as an updated diagnosis for the genus.
["Ceraphronoidea"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies"]

Transcriptome characterisation, SSR marker development and genetic diversity analysis of the endangered species Camellia cucphuongensis Ninh & Rosmann using Illumina sequencing
Overharvesting for ornamental and medicinal purposes, combined with ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation in Vietnam, has severely threatened wild populations of Camellia cucphuongensis. Effective conservation and management of this species, therefore, require robust genomic resources and informative molecular markers to quantify genetic diversity and population structure. In this study, we generated the first transcriptome dataset for C. cucphuongensis and developed expressed sequence tag–simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) markers using Illumina HiSeq™ 4000 sequencing. A total of 13,600,954 clean reads were obtained (Q20 = 97.55%, Q30 = 93.11%, GC = 44.08%). De novo assembly produced 118,552 unigenes with a mean length of 541.2 bp and an N50 of 683 bp. Functional annotation revealed that 52,107 and 25,640 unigenes had significant matches in the Nr and Swiss-Prot databases, respectively. Additionally, 28,007 unigenes were assigned to Gene Ontology terms, 27,968 to KOG categories and 11,959 to 117 KEGG pathways. Mining for simple sequence repeats identified 9,661 EST-SSR loci. From 60 screened primer pairs, 11 polymorphic EST-SSR markers were validated and applied to 60 individuals from three natural populations. Genetic diversity was moderate (NE = 2.17; PIC = 0.548; HO = 0.46; HE = 0.50), with most variation occurring within individuals (79%) and 11% amongst populations (FST = 0.113; Nm = 1.96). Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC), STRUCTURE and neighbour-joining (NJ) analyses all indicated detectable population structuring, with population CP showing clearer differentiation relative to LH and TL. Collectively, these transcriptomic resources and EST-SSR markers provide practical tools for genetic monitoring and can support conservation strategies that emphasise habitat protection and maintenance of connectivity to mitigate genetic erosion in this endangered golden camellia.
["Camellia cucphuongensis"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Ginger and Zingiberaceae research"]

Synergus nigrus (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae, Synergini), a new inquiline species reared from galls of Philonix nigra Gillette, 1889 (Cynipidae, Cynipini)
Philonix nigra Gillette, 1889 (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae, Cynipini) induces novel structures, plant galls, on white oaks (Fagaceae: Quercus alba L. and possibly other species classified in Quercus sect. Quercus). Such structures are often inhabited by other cynipids, who apparently cannot induce their own galls on these plants. These inquilinous species are primarily classified in the tribes Synergini (Synergus spp.) and Ceroptresini (Ceroptres spp.) Extensive rearing pf P. nigra galls has yielded numerous associates, including a new species of Synergus.We describe Synergus nigrus Montelongo & Nastasi sp. nov., a new species of inquilinous cynipid discovered from the eastern USA in Philonix nigra galls. This species is morphologically diagnosable, being the first Synergus with a partially smooth mesopleuron and 15 antennomeres in females. This diagnosis was also supported by DNA barcode data (mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene fragment), when compared to other available Synergini barcode sequences. We discuss key aspects that separate this species from related species and issues with taxonomy of this genus.
["gall wasp"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

New records and an updated list of snakes from Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam
Ha Tinh Province, located in the northern side of the Truong Son Range of Vietnam, one of four biodiversity centres of Vietnam, harbours a large area of 313,023 hectares of natural forest. However, the biodiversity of this Province is poorly studied, in particular the snake fauna. Previous studies reported a total of 44 species of snakes from this Province, including two recently described species, Achalinus quangi and Lycodon duytan.As a result of our field surveys in April 2025, a total of 25 species of snakes were recorded from Vu Quang National Park. Six of them are recorded for the first time from Ha Tinh Province (Boiga guangxiensis, Gonyosoma coeruleum, Rhabdophis nigrocinctus, Bungarus slowinskii, Hebius boulengeri and Pseudoxenodon bambusicola). In addition, we provide morphological descriptions and ecological notes of the aforementioned species.
["Vu Quang National Park"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

First record of the genus Patchiella (Hemiptera, Aphididae) on Tilia mandshurica in South Korea
The aphid genus Patchiella Tullgren, 1925 (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Pemphiginae, Pemphigini) is known for forming characteristic “leaf nests” on Tilia species and alternating to Araceae as secondary hosts. Although Patchiella kolokasia has been reported from China and Japan, it has never been recorded from South Korea.Patchiella kolokasia (Qiao & Zhang, 1999) is recorded for the first time from South Korea, collected on Tilia mandshurica Rupr. et Maxim. (Malvaceae) in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Detailed morphological observations of fundatrices are provided. This discovery expands the known distribution of P. kolokasia to the Korean Peninsula and represents the first record of the genus Patchiella in South Korea.
["aphids"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Bioactive Natural Diterpenoids Research", "Phytochemistry and Bioactive Compounds"]

Confirmation of the distribution of Gonyosoma prasinum (Blyth, 1855) and Boiga multomaculata septentrionalis Köhler, Charunrochana, Mogk, Than, Kurniawan, Kadafi, Das, Tillack & O’Shea, 2023 (Serpentes, Colubridae) in China
Gonyosoma prasinum (Blyth, 1855) was once considered a widely distributed species. Later, it was revealed that it is a species complex and has been divided into three species. Presently, Gonyosoma prasinum (Blyth, 1855) is known to be only distributed in India, Myanmar and Bhutan and there is no confirmed record of its occurrence in China.Boiga multomaculata septentrionalis Köhler, Charunrochana, Mogk, Than, Kurniawan, Kadafi, Das, Tillack & O’Shea, 2023 is a subspecies of B. multomaculata described from Kachin State, Myanmar. It is known to be distributed in Myanmar and India and is speculated to be also distributed in China.Recently, two snake specimens were collected from Yingjiang County, Dehong Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. Based on morphological comparison and phylogenetic analysis, we determine that the two specimens belong to Gonyosoma prasinum and Boiga multomaculata septentrionalis, respectively. Therefore, we confirm the distribution of these two species in China.
["cytb"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

MOVECLIM–AZORES: plot based vascular plant cover along elevational gradients (2013)
In the scope of the MOVECLIM project, in 2013, we surveyed vascular plants and their ground cover in native or better-preserved vegetation patches, following an elevational transect, on four Azorean islands (São Miguel, Terceira, Pico and Flores). Using a standardised, plot-based protocol, permanent 10 m × 10 m plots were established at approximately 200 m elevation steps, each plot subdivided into four 5 m × 5 m subplots. All vascular taxa were recorded per subplot and cover was assigned using the Braun-Blanquet Ordinal Transform Value (OTV), a scale based on a geometric series, that assigns a numeric value (1–9) to each Braun–Blanquet category.We established 58 permanent plots across the four Azorean islands, resulting in 232 event records at the subplot level (eventID) and 2,539 occurrence records (occurrenceID), spanning 58 families, 92 genera, 109 species and five subspecies of vascular plants. Amongst these taxa, 44 are Azorean endemics, 40 are native non-endemic and 30 are introduced (of which 17 are invasive). This study provides a baseline for long-term monitoring of native vegetation, assessment of invasive species and evaluation of native communities' responses to such pressures across islands with contrasting elevation ranges and disturbance histories.
["Azores"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Contributions to the Andrena (Hymenoptera, Andrenidae) Fauna of the Mediterranean Region of Türkiye
Andrena is one of the most diverse bee genera in the Holarctic Region, yet its species diversity and distribution in Türkiye remain poorly documented. This study provides an updated faunistic assessment of the genus in the Mediterranean Region of southern Türkiye, based on extensive field sampling in 12 provinces between 2008 and 2009 and a comprehensive synthesis of existing records. Specimens were identified using the latest taxonomic revisions and provincial distributions were compiled to produce a contemporary regional baseline.A total of 81 species were documented, belonging to 26 subgenera, including three endemic Turkish taxa (A. hungarica ssp. macroura, A. purpureomicans and A. cinnamonea), as well as A. wolfi, which was recorded in the country for the first time. Floral visitation data were also incorporated into the study. Furthermore, the species distribution was summarised with regional maps. The photos of morphological characters of regional and Turkish new records were also taken and included to the study. Together, these results provide the most current and comprehensive overview of Andrena diversity in southern Türkiye, offering a critical foundation for future research into the taxonomy, biogeography, pollination ecology and conservation of Mediterranean bee communities.
["Andrena"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Monitoring of potential invasive arthropod species in Azores Islands (Corvo, Flores, Faial, Pico, Terceira, São Miguel and Santa Maria): the PRIBES Project
Arthropods provide essential ecosystem services, yet multiple lines of evidence indicate widespread declines driven by habitat loss (degradation, fragmentation and reduction), biological invasions and climate change. Oceanic islands are particularly vulnerable to invasive alien species because of their isolation, small area and sensitivity to novel predators, competitors and pathogens. In the Azores, historical land-use change has greatly reduced native forest cover, while long-term monitoring indicates that introduced arthropod diversity is increasing even where total richness appears stable. However, ruderal coastal habitats (i.e. transitional, frequently disturbed environments often dominated by opportunistic exotic plants) remain comparatively under-sampled and may function as early “gateways” for new arthropod introductions. The PRIBES project intends to contribute to "The Regional Strategy for the Management of Terrestrial and Freshwater Exotic and Invasive Species in the Azores" (PRIBES-LIFE-IP- Estratégia regional para o controlo e prevenção de espécies exóticas invasoras - no âmbito do projeto LIFE IP AZORES NATURA, LIFE17 IPE/PT/000010). The PRIBES project addresses this gap by surveying arthropod assemblages associated with vascular plants in disturbed coastal ruderal habitats across multiple Azorean islands (Corvo, Flores, Faial, Pico, Terceira, São Miguel and Santa Maria) using a standardised time-based plant beating protocol, enabling comparisons of richness and colonisation status (endemic, native or exotic) amongst islands and vegetation contexts.This manuscript provides a standardised, multi-island synthesis of arthropod sampling across seven Azorean islands, encompassing 78 sites sampled with standard methods plus one site with ad hoc samples and 23,547 specimens. It reports 366 taxa, including 247 taxa identified to species/subspecies and 119 not identified morphospecies, delivering an unusually comprehensive archipelago-scale baseline for ruderal and edge-associated assemblages. The substantial unidentified morphospecies fraction, plausibly dominated by as-yet-unrecorded Azorean arrivals despite extensive local expertise, is consistent with documented increases in island exotic arthropod diversity and highlights an identification bottleneck where recent introductions and potential pests accumulate. The study also provides major distributional updates, including 62 new island records and one new record for the Azores, corresponding to the theridiid spider Dipoena melanogaster (C. L. Koch, 1837). By summarising colonisation status for all identified taxa, we show a strong contribution of introduced taxa (121 of 247 identified taxa) alongside endemic (37) and native non-endemic (72) components, offering a clear quantitative snapshot of assemblage structure relevant to biosecurity and conservation planning. In addition, for 17 taxa, the colonisation status is uncertain. By publishing openly accessible, standardised occurrence records, these data directly support early detection and surveillance prioritisation for emerging introductions and help provide information for management and biosecurity strategies in rapidly changing island landscapes.
["Oceanic islands"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Metabolic rate measurements of two benthic invertebrates under simulated climate change conditions
Climate change is profoundly altering marine ecosystems through ocean warming and acidification. These stressors are especially pronounced in the Mediterranean Sea, a climate change hotspot projected to warm faster than the global average. Increased temperatures and reduced pH directly affect metabolic processes in marine invertebrates by elevating respiration rates up to species-specific thermal limits, beyond which physiological performance declines. Ocean acidification further disrupts metabolic processes by increasing energetic maintenance costs. Sessile and sedentary marine invertebrates, such as sponges and benthic gastropods, are particularly exposed to such environmental shifts due to their limited ability to escape unfavorable conditions, making physiological plasticity and local adaptation crucial for persistence.This manuscript presents a dataset of oxygen consumption rates and wet weight measurements for two low-mobility marine species, the gastropod Hexaplex trunculus and the sponge Chondrilla nucula. Using a common garden experiment, individuals from North and South Aegean populations were exposed for three months to simulated climate change conditions combining increased temperature and reduced pH. The dataset documents respiration measurements obtained using metabolic chambers after three months of exposure, allowing comparisons across species, geographic origin, and experimental treatments.The dataset accounts for intraspecific variation in these responses, providing insight into potential adaptive differences among geographically distinct populations. These data provide a resource for future analyses of metabolic responses of marine invertebrates to combined warming and acidification conditions.
["oxygen consumption"]
["Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

New ant records from La Réunion Island (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
La Réunion Island (Mascarene Archipelago, south-western Indian Ocean) hosts a largely introduced ant fauna, shaped by historical and ongoing human-mediated introductions. Despite previous inventories, the ant fauna of the Island remains incompletely documented and updated faunistic records are needed to refine species checklists and improve knowledge of regional biodiversity. Documenting new occurrences contributes to a better understanding of species distributions, biogeographic patterns and invasion dynamics on oceanic islands, which are particularly vulnerable to biological invasions.Following recent fieldwork, we report eight new species for La Réunion Island: Brachymymex australis Forel, 1901; Cardiocondyla obscurior Wheeler, 1929; Monomorium exiguum Forel, 1894; Pheidole parva Mayr, 1865; Solenopsis globularia Smith, 1858; Solenopsis gr. pygmaea, Stigmatomma cf. zwaluwenburgi Williams, 1946; and Strumigenys membranifera Emery, 1869. All are introduced species with varying invasiveness status. This work brings the total number of ants known from La Réunion Island to 62, although the presence and identification of some species cited in literature and databases needs verification. Further collections may uncover additional introduced species in urbanised and anthropogenised habitats and native species specific to La Réunion Island or the Mascarene Islands in natural ecosystems.
["Mascarene Islands"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Pycnogonida (Arthropoda) from the Marine Biological Sample Museum in the Third Institute of Oceanography of MNR, with some new records and a checklist of Fujian, China
Research on sea spiders in China is relatively scarce and there is a severe shortage of regional basic data. In earlier studies, there was a lack of attention given to this small group and museums housed a large number of specimens that had not been identified.By re-examining the collections of sea spiders in the Marine Biological Sample Museum in the Third Institute of Oceanography of MNR (MBSM), 12 specimens were found to belong to five families, five genera and five species. Amongst them, four species were new records for Fujian, while Anoplodactylus tubiferus (Haswell, 1884) was a new record for China. Through reviewing previous studies, a checklist of sea spiders in Fujian was established and this study increased the number of recorded species from 10 to 14.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

New occurrence data of bryophytes and lichens from São Jorge Island (Azores, Macaronesia)
The Azorean Archipelago hosts an exceptionally rich cryptogamic flora, although several islands remain comparatively understudied. To address this gap, the present study presents records of bryophytes and lichens from São Jorge Island (SJO), based on opportunistic collections made during a MOVECLIM – Azores project expedition, from 29 July to 2 August 2014. Sampling was based on direct observation of noteworthy specimens and targeted areas with high substrate diversity and species richness. All collected material was subsequently examined and identified to species or subspecies level. Overall, the study aimed to: (i) document bryophyte and lichen species richness across major habitats; (ii) identify environmental drivers of species distribution; and (iii) increase the AZU Herbarium collection.A total of 568 specimens were recorded, representing 111 species. Overall, the inventory comprises nine lichen species, three hornworts, 44 liverworts and 55 mosses; of these, 12 species are newly reported for SJO, including five lichens, one hornwort, one liverwort and five mosses. Three mosses are endemic to the Azores, six species are endemic to Macaronesia (four mosses; two liverworts) and twelve species are endemic to Europe (four mosses; eight liverworts). Most specimens were collected at elevations between 300 and 600 m and around 1000 m. Rocks and soil supported the greatest bryophyte diversity, whereas lichens were mostly collected on epiphytic substrates.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

Experimental exposure to climate change scenarios imposed alterations on the morphological traits of sessile and low-motility marine invertebrates
Over the past 50 years, the oceans have absorbed over 90% of global warming heat, leading to warming, acidification and declining oxygen levels that are disrupting marine ecosystems and altering species distributions and productivity. The vulnerability of marine organisms to these changes depends on their biological traits, habitat conditions and adaptive capacity, influencing their growth, behaviour and overall population health. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) has been previously used for studying the morphological traits of marine invertebrates, which provide important insights into species functionality and responses to climate change and ocean acidification. Micro-CT enables non-destructive, high-resolution 3D analysis of internal and external structures, allowing precise measurement of traits such as density, porosity and morphology that are valuable for climate change research.The present manuscript describes micro-CT imaging datasets generated to investigate the effects of climate change on the morphological structure of two benthic marine invertebrates: the low-motility gastropod Hexaplex trunculus (Linnaeus, 1758) and the sessile sponge Chondrilla nucula Schmidt, 1862. Both species are considered particularly vulnerable to environmental stressors. To date, no study has investigated the effects of ocean warming and acidification on sponges using micro-CT technology. Using a common garden experimental design, individuals from geographically distinct populations exposed to different natural environmental regimes were subjected to combined warming and acidification scenarios to assess their morphological responses and adaptive capacity.
["micro-computed tomography (micro-CT)"]
["Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Review of the families Mycteridae, Pythidae and Salpingidae (Coleoptera, Tenebrionoidea) of Bulgaria
A total of seven beetle species from the families Mycteridae (two species), Pythidae (one species) and Salpingidae (four species) (Coleoptera, Tenebrionoidea) are known from Bulgaria. Beetles of this families are rarely recorded and three of the species are omitted in the last edition of the Catalogue of Palaearctic Coleoptera for the country, despite the presence of earlier reports.In the present study, an updated checklist of the families Mycteridae, Pythidae and Salpingidae of Bulgaria is prepared. New data on the distribution of the species Mycterus tibialis Küster, 1850, M. curculioides (Fabricius, 1781) (Mycteridae), Pytho depressus (Linnaeus, 1767) (Pythidae), Salpingus planirostris (Fabricius, 1787), S. ruficollis (Linnaeus, 1760) and Vincenzellus ruficollis (Panzer, 1794) (Salpingidae) in the country are reported. Original photographs of all examined species are provided.
["Tenebrionoidea"]

Dictyolimon gilesii (Plumbaginaceae), a new generic record to China, with special reference to its first plastome
Dictyolimon (Plumbaginaceae, Caryophyllales) is a small genus with three currently accepted species. Nevertheless, its distribution remains poorly known, with records confined to Afghanistan, Pakistan and India (Kashmir). During recent fieldwork on the eastern Pamir Plateau in China, we discovered a distinctive perennial herb, identifiable as Dictyolimon gilesii. This species is characterised by densely rosulate, coriaceous, obovate or spatulate leaves; spikelets with 3–10-flowers (typically 6), sessile; bifid petals; a pubescent calyx tube; styles free from the base; and oblique-capitate stigmas. This finding represents the first record of the genus Dictyolimon in China. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the ITS and trnY-trnT loci, further support our morphology-based conclusions. Additionally, we report the first complete plastome of Dictyolimon, which is 152,328 bp in length and contains 121 functional genes.Dictyolimon gilesii new to China.
["chloroplast genome"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Natural Compound Pharmacology Studies", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

Breaking the Afrotropical boundary: Discovery of Planochelas in Asia reveals transcontinental distribution, with a new bark-dwelling species from China (Araneae, Trachelidae)
Arboreal microhabitats, such as tree bark, remain poorly studied in subtropical China. During exploratory surveys in Jiangxi, specimens of the trachelid spider genus Planochelas — previously known only from Africa — were collected, representing its first record in Asia. This finding disproves the genus’ assumed endemic status and underscores the value of surveying overlooked microhabitats for biogeographic discovery.The spider genus Planochelas Lyle & Haddad, 2009 is reported for the first time outside the Afrotropical Region, based on material collected in Ji’an City, Jiangxi Province, south-eastern China. A new species, Planochelas jingda Liu, sp. nov., is described and illustrated. Specimens were collected from beneath the bark of Platanus spp. (e.g. P. acerifolia, P. occidentalis and P. orientalis), confirming the arboreal and cryptic habits of the genus. This discovery significantly expands the known distribution of Planochelas and challenges its previous status as a strictly Afrotropical endemic. The finding underscores the importance of targeted microhabitat sampling for revealing overlooked spider diversity and contributes to the understanding of the biogeography of the family Trachelidae in the Oriental Region.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Faunal biodiversity of the lower abyssal and hadal zones of the Japan, Ryukyu and Izu-Ogasawara trenches (NW Pacific Ocean; 4534-9775 m)
In-situ video-based observations collected using multiple platforms are increasingly used for biodiversity assessments at abyssal and hadal depths, sometimes complemented by physical sampling. Here, we present an imagery-based guide and biodiversity record of organisms observed in the Japan, Ryukyu and Izu-Ogasawara trenches in the Northwest Pacific Ocean between 4534 m and 9775 m. The guide compiles morphotaxa identifications, reference imagery and observational notes from approximately 460 hours of video footage obtained through baited lander and submersible transect surveys. A total of 108 morphotaxa were observed, which are listed here with locality and depth range. The illustrated occurrence list serves as a practical reference to aid in the identification of organisms in future image-based biodiversity assessments at these depths, to support voucher specimen collections and to provide a baseline record of faunal occurrence and distribution at these localities. Additionally, this study highlights the value of utilising multiple observation platforms to improve comprehensive biodiversity and behavioural assessments in abyssal and hadal ecosystems.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

A new spider species of Scytodes Latreille, 1804 from Jiangxi Province, southern China (Araneae, Scytodidae)
Despite the increasing discovery of new spider species in Jiangxi Province, most are entelegynes or mygalomorphs, with haplogyne spiders being seldom reported. However, during a decade-long survey of spiders in Jinggangshan National Nature Reserve, two species of Scytodes were identified, including one known species, S. liui Wang, 1994 and one new species.A new species, Scytodes tanjiashui Liu, sp. nov., is described from Jinggangshan National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi Province, China. Morphological illustrations, SEM pictures, ink drawing, DNA barcode, photos of live specimens and a distribution map are given. The total number of the known species of Scytodes from China is raised to 11.
["haplogyne spiders"]

Philodromus uljin sp. nov., a new running crab spider (Araneae, Philodromidae) from South Korea
Philodromidae Thorell, 1869 is a spider family comprising 531 species in 31 genera distributed worldwide. Amongst these genera, Philodromus Walckenaer, 1826 is the most diverse with 211 described species.A new running crab spider, Philodromus uljin sp. nov., is described from Uljin-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea. This study provides a diagnosis, morphological description and photographs of the habitat, live habitus and genital organs of both males and females.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Ocean Species Discoveries 28–30 — new species of chitons (Mollusca, Polyplacophora) and a public naming competition
Three new chitons are reported from distinct and underexplored marine habitats: Ferreiraella populi sp. nov. from deep-sea sunken wood off Japan in the western Pacific, Notoplax madagascariensis sp. nov. from Madagascar, and the carnivorous Placiphorella granulosa sp. nov. from Papua New Guinea, occurring from the sublittoral into the bathyal zone. These findings broaden current understanding of chiton diversity and emphasise how much remains undocumented in the deep-sea and tropical systems. The discovery of Notoplax madagascariensis sp. nov. is particularly relevant for ongoing efforts to resolve generic limits within Cryptoplacoidea, where both taxonomic and molecular evidence remain incomplete.The three species described here add substantially to the known diversity and ecological breadth of chitons. The species epithet of the new Ferreiraella species was the outcome of a public naming competition, an initiative intended to raise awareness of taxonomy and enhance public engagement with species discovery. All three chitons illustrate the value of targeted sampling across poorly-studied habitats.
["Ferreiraellidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

First description on female and tadpole of Nidirana chongqingensis Ma & Wang, 2023 (Anura, Ranidae) and its distribution expansion in Guizhou Province, China
The Nidirana Dubois, 1992 is widely distributed in East and Southeast Asia. In recent years, the species of this genus have been continuously updated, with 22 species recognised globally to date and 21 species recorded in China. Nidirana chongqingensis is a species described in 2023, previously only recorded from Qianjiang, Chongqing, China. With the deepening of surveys, this species has also been discovered in Zheng'an County, Guizhou Province, China, and its females and tadpoles have been first recorded herein.During herpetological surveys in 2024–2025, we collected six adult specimens (3 males, 3 females) and five tadpoles of Nidirana from Zheng'an County, Guizhou Province, China. Molecular analyses of 16S and COI genes confirmed their identity as N. chongqingensis. We provide the first detailed description of the female morphology and tadpole characteristics of this species, revise its diagnostic features, extend its known distribution range from Chongqing to Guizhou, and offer foundational data for future conservation assessments.
["Nidirana chongqingensis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

New records of semi-aquatic bugs (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Gerromorpha) from the South Region of Brazil
Semi-aquatic bug (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Gerromorpha) constitute a monophyletic group of predatory insects that play crucial roles in limnic environments. The Oriental and Neotropical regions harbor the richest faunas, but many species from these areas remain undescribed, and large regions are still poorly explored. In Brazil, semi-aquatic bugs have been more thoroughly sampled in the North and Southeast regions, while other regions have been neglected. The Southern Region of the country comprises the states of Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul, from which 20, 44, and 28 species of Gerromorpha have been recorded, respectively. In total, 61 species are known from the region, which is likely far from being an accurate representation of the local fauna.Here, we present new state records of 24 species of Gerromorpha from the State of Paraná, nine from Santa Catarina and six from Rio Grande do Sul. Furthermore, of the 45 species that we studied, 36 are recorded for the first time from at least one of the three States. Our results also include one first record from Brazil and 14 from the South Region. Additionally, we identified and provide illustrations of a male of Mesovelia amoena Uhler, 1894, which is extremely rare in the Neotropics. Finally, the new data presented here increases the number of semi-aquatic bug species known from the South Region from 60 to 75.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Flower-visiting assemblages of arable lands and orchards in the eastern Pannonian Lowland, studied with volatile traps
Pollinator assemblages of different habitats are widely studied, but sampling methodologies and covering of lesser-known pollinators and other flower-visitor taxa (e.g., floriphagous species) need improvement to obtain reliable data on the structure and functioning of these communities. We assessed flower-visiting insect assemblages in arable lands and apple orchards of the eastern Pannonian Lowland using phenylacetaldehyde-based volatile traps originally developed for pest monitoring. In seven sites, 27,539 individuals belonging to 123 species and seven insect orders were recorded. On average, over 90% of the captured insects were potential pollinators, with a higher proportion in orchards (98%) than in arable lands (85%). In orchards, the dominant groups were Hymenoptera, Diptera, Lepidoptera and Neuroptera, while in arable lands, Lepidoptera were most abundant. Floriphagous and pest species were more numerous in arable lands. These results demonstrate that phenylacetaldehyde-baited traps are easy to use, standardized, and sufficiently efficient for assessing of flower-visiting assemblages. Beyond their application in pest monitoring, they can provide reliable data on the flower-visiting and pollinator assemblages in different natural and agricultural habitats.
["phenylacetaldehyde"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New spatial records of vascular plants in the Azores Archipelago: the PRIBES project and the Azorean Biodiversity Portal (ABP) initiatives - I. São Jorge Island (Azores)
The Azores Archipelago is known for its important natural heritage, yet its ecosystems face a “green tsunami” in the form of numerous exotic and invasive species. This influx has wrought serious biodiversity loss and degradation of ecosystem services, representing one of the greatest threats to conservation across the islands. Originating from accelerated global trade and travel, these invasions impact human activities, public health and economic sectors alike. The PRIBES project intends to contribute to "The Regional Strategy for the Management of Terrestrial and Freshwater Exotic and Invasive Species in the Azores" (PRIBES-LIFE-IP- Estratégia regional para o controlo e prevenção de espécies exóticas invasoras - no âmbito do projeto LIFE IP AZORES NATURA, LIFE17 IPE/PT/000010). Recently, a plan was delivered to the Azorean government that proposes as key strategy: an unified Azores Invasive Species Task Force, a central coordination unit and island‐level focal points defined clear leadership roles for agencies and stakeholders (Axis 1), while stringent pre‐export controls, quarantine measures and risk analyses blocked new arrivals (Axis 2); parallel early‐detection teams and citizen‐science networks screened ports, airports and nurseries and triggered rapid eradication protocols (Axis 3), guided by a tiered framework of eradication, containment, control and mitigation chosen on feasibility and cost–benefit grounds (Axis 4). Simultaneously, national and international partnerships with IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) ISSG (Invasive Species Specialist Group), CABI (Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux International) and other island regions fostered data exchange (Axis 5), targeted scientific research investigated invasion pathways and management efficacy (Axis 6) and a central observatory consolidated occurrence records and risk assessments (Axis 7). Meanwhile, outreach campaigns, industry training and school programmes rallied public awareness (Axis 8). The AZORES BIOPORTAL (ABP) is a regional e-infrastructure dedicated to the mobilisation, curation and dissemination of biodiversity data from the Azores. It provides centralised data repository for researchers, policy-makers and educators; validated species checklists, including endemic, native and introduced species; integration with national and international biodiversity networks, including PORBIOTA, GBIF and LifeWatch ERIC; and tools for data visualisation and access, supporting conservation, ecological research and environmental management. ABP follows the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and supports open science. Mapping the occurrence of both native (endemic and non endemic) and exotic species is of key importance for the PRIBES project and the ABP intiative.A total of 243 vascular plant taxa were recorded across São Jorge Island, encompassing 89 families. These records correspond to 4,524 individual plant occurrences, including repeated observations of the same species across different sites. As each photographic observation is tied to unique geographic coordinates, all recorded specimens represent new spatial records for the Island’s flora. Amongst the taxa, 53 are considered endemic to the Azores, 131 are introduced, 58 are native and one species (Dracaena draco (L.) L.) is of indeterminate status. These correspond to 1,773 individual occurrences of endemic taxa, 1779 introduced, 970 native and one with indeterminate status. At the family level, 31 families include endemic taxa, 63 include introduced taxa, 34 include native taxa and one family contains a taxon of indeterminate status.The inventory includes several noteworthy Azorean endemics, spanning both ferns and flowering plants. Amongst the ferns, notable records include Crisped Buckler Fern Dryopteris crispifolia Rasbach, Reichst. & Vida, Azorean Buckler Fern Dryopteris azorica (Christ) Alston and Azorean Rockcap Fern Polypodium macaronesicum subsp. azoricum (Vasc.) Rumsey, Carine & Robba. Iconic flowering species and woody endemics recorded during the survey comprise Azorean Cherry Prunus lusitanica subsp. azorica (Mouill.) Franco, Azorean Buckthorn Frangula azorica Grubov, Azorean Eyebright Euphrasia grandiflora Hochst. ex Seub., Azorean Greater-hawkbit Leontodon filii (Hochst. ex Seub.) Paiva & Ormonde and Narrow-lipped Butterfly Orchid Platanthera micrantha (Hochst. ex Seub.) Schltr. Additional endemic taxa include Azorean Dock Rumex azoricus Rech.f., Azorean Holly Ilex azorica Gand., Azorean Umbrella Milkwort Tolpis azorica (Nutt.) P. Silva and the hemiparasitic Azorean Dwarf Mistletoe Arceuthobium azoricum Wiens & Hawksw. Other significant native species recorded include the ferns Wilson's Filmy-fern Hymenophyllum wilsonii Hook., Killarney Fern Vandenboschia speciosa (Willd.) G.Kunkel and Scaly Tongue-fern Elaphoglossum hirtum (Sw.) C.Chr., Cretan Thyme Thymus caespititius Brot., Many-stalked Spike-rush Eleocharis multicaulis (Sm.) Desv. and the more common native Firetree Morella faya (Aiton) Wilbur.Amongst the most problematic surveyed exotic invasive plant species are the Ginger Lily Hedychium gardnerianum Sheppard ex Ker-Gawl., Knotweed Persicaria capitata (Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don) H.Gross, Bigleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla (Thunb.) Ser., Crofton Weed Ageratina adenophora (Spreng.) R.M.King & H.Rob., Australian Cheesewood Pittosporum undulatum Vent. and the Wandering Jew Tradescantia fluminensis Vell., as well as the American Pokeweed Phytolacca americana L.
["floristic inventory"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "International Maritime Law Issues", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Taxonomic description of a new freshwater Gammarus (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridae) restricted to the upper Hantan River, central Korean Peninsula
Gammarus Fabricius, 1775 is the largest genus in the family Gammaridae and most species inhabit freshwater and exhibit high regional endemism. To date, 12 freshwater Gammarus species are known from South Korea. However, considering the complex topography of the Korean Peninsula, the species diversity of freshwater Gammarus may be underestimated.A new species of the genus Gammarus Fabricius, 1775 is described, originating from the Hantan River region, South Korea. Gammarus kyungsooki sp. nov. is morphologically characterised by the absence of calceoli on antenna 2, the presence of 6–7 clusters of long setae on the posterior margin of peduncular article 4 in antenna 2, long straight setae along the posterior margins of merus to carpus in pereopod 3, a 0–2–0 dorsal spine formula on urosomite 1, plumose setae on the outer margin of the outer ramus of uropod 3 and three or more clusters of setae on the outer margin of each telson lobe. Genetic distance analyses, based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and nuclear large-subunit ribosomal RNA (28S) gene sequences, support the distinctiveness of the new species, with interspecific divergences of 18.8%–25.2% (COI) and 1.7%–5.1% (28S).
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Alloscopus ramanai sp. nov. (Orchesellidae, Heteromurinae), a new Collembola species from central Thailand, with complete mitochondrial genome and phylogenetic placement
Alloscopus is one of the genera within the subfamily Heteromurinae, recently recorded in Thailand and is currently represented by six species from two regions of the country. In the northern part, A. tetracanthus Börner, 1906 and A. thailandensis Mari Mutt, 1985 have been recorded from forested habitats. In the southern part, A. whitteni Jantarit & Sangsiri, 2020, A. namtip Jantarit & Sangsiri, 2020 and A. jantapasoae Jantarit, Nilsai & Manee, 2025 have been reported from a cave habitat, while A. sago Jantarit & Manee, 2025 was recently described from a sago palm forest.A new species, Alloscopus ramanai sp. nov., is described from central Thailand, based on an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological and molecular data. The new species closely resembles A. tetracanthus Börner, 1906, sharing several diagnostic characters including a dark red ocular patch and PAO shape and the number of M and S series chaetae on the dorsal head. Additional similarities include the number of spiniform labral papillae, labial basis chaetae, the number of pseudopores on the manubrium, the number of central and lateral macrochaetae on Th.II, the number of central macrochaetae on Th.III and Abd.IV. However, A. ramanai sp. nov. can be clearly distinguished from A. tetracanthus by a unique combination of traits, including the number of lateral macrochaetae on Abd. III and Abd. IV and the number of chaetae on the anterior side of the ventral tube. A detailed diagnosis and illustrations of the new species are provided herein. A key for species of Alloscopus in Thailand is also included. The complete mitochondrial genome of A. ramanai sp. nov. is 14,757 bp in length and comprises 13 concatenated protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes and two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. Phylogenetic analysis, based on mitochondrial genome data, indicates that A. ramanai sp. nov. forms a sister lineage to Alloscopus bannaensis Zhang, 2020. The description of this new species contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of Heteromurinae diversity in Thailand and underscores the need for expanded mitogenomic sampling across Collembola.
["Entomobryoidea"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Next release of the European Marine Omics Biodiversity Observation Network (EMO BON) shotgun metagenomic data from water and sediment samples (Release 2)
The European Marine Omics Biodiversity Observation Network (EMO BON) is a long-term genomic observatory run by the European Research Infrastructure European Marine Biological Resource Centre (EMBRC). It was established in 2021 to support the challenges of biodiversity observation and unsystematic management of biodiversity data in the European seas. EMO BON introduced and coordinated the systematic and harmonised observation of biodiversity amongst more than fourteen marine stations in the European coastline. Here, we report the next release (Release 2) of shotgun metagenomic data from seawater and sediment microbial communities.
["metagenomics"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A new species of the genus Australobius Chamberlin, 1920 (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae) from southwestern China
The genus Australobius Chamberlin, 1920 is a small genus of subfamily Lithobiinae Newport, 1844 within family Lithobiidae Newport, 1844. The World Catalogue of Centipedes currently records 35 species or subspecies for Australobius.A new species Australobius septforaminis sp. nov., is described based on both sexes (four males and two females specimens) from Guanshan, Yintiaoling National Nature Reserve, Wuxi County, Chongqing, China. A detailed morphological description and illustrations of Australobius septforaminis sp. nov. are provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

One new genus Najas (Hydrocharitaceae) and four new vascular plant records for Kosovo: Lycopodium, Najas and two Cyperus species
Targeted field surveys, during the 2025 vegetative period, across a range of natural habitats revealed four vascular plant taxa previously unconfirmed for the flora of Kosovo: Lycopodium annotinum subsp. annotinum, Najas marina, Cyperus fuscus and C. rotundus. Specimens were collected from upper-montane spruce forests, in lake and littoral zones and serpentine foothill streams and were identified using standard regional floras; all vouchers are deposited in the Herbarium of the University of Prishtina (UPH). The discovery of L. annotinum subsp. annotinum adds a new boreal-montane element to the national Lycopodiaceae, while N. marina represents the first documented member of the genus Najas in the country. Likewise, C. fuscus and C. rotundus are the first confirmed representatives of Cyperus, demonstrating that cyperaceous diversity in Kosovo has been significantly underestimated. These findings highlight the ecological and biogeographical complexity of the region, emphasise the importance of wetlands, aquatic systems, upper-montane coniferous forests and serpentine landscapes for harbouring overlooked taxa and underscore the need for continued systematic floristic surveys to refine the national inventory and support future conservation and biodiversity research.Four new species are being reported for the flora of Kosovo: Lycopodium annotinum subsp. annotinum, Najas marina, Cyperus fuscus and C. rotundus.
["Balkan flora"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

A new species of Allostoma (Platyhelminthes, Prolecithophora) from the coast of Japan
The genus Allostoma von Beneden, 1861 (Pseudostomidae Graff, 1904) consists of generally small, often conspicuously colored species. These organisms are typically found on hard bottoms, in gravel, or among algae in marine and brackish-water environments. The Pseudostomid taxon encompasses approximately 55 known species globally, spanning regions across Europe, Asia, and North and South America. In Japan, however, only three species of this taxon have been reported to date: Allostoma durum (Fuhrmann, 1896), Allostoma densissimabursa (Omi, 2020) comb. nov., and Cylindrostoma monotrochum (Graff, 1882).Samples of seaweed and sand were collected from the coast of Shimane Prefecture in western Japan. Turbellarians were subsequently isolated and examined both in their live state and in histological sections. This investigation led to the description of a new species, Allostoma matsueensis sp. nov., characterized by a pear-shaped granular vesicle, non-sclerotized retractile penis, a narrow rigidly sclerotized conical spermatic duct, a supraterminal female pore, and a thin membraned bursa. The species further exhibits a yellow-to-pale brown body. This discovery constitutes the first record of the genus Allostoma from the western marine coast of Japan.
["Pseudostomidae"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Expanded description and distribution of Opisthotropis tamdaoensis Ziegler, David & Vu, 2008 (Squamata, Natricidae), first record from Yunnan Province of China
The Tam Dao Mountain Stream Keelback, Opisthotropis tamdaoensis Ziegler, David & Vu, 2008, was previously described, based on one single holotype and subsequently expanded according to four newly-collected specimens from the type locality. Information on this species is extremely limited.On the basis of newly-collected Opisthotropis specimens from Hekou, Yunnan, China, this study reports the first country record of Opisthotropis tamdaoensis from China. The Chinese Opisthotropis tamdaoensis population totally agrees with the original description of this species and revealed only a minor genetic distance (lower than 2.9%) in the mitochondrial gene fragment of the cytochrome b (Cytb) compared with the topotypic population. Based upon the our newly-collected specimens and published data, we revised the diagnosis of Opisthotropis tamdaoensis:nasal not divided below nostril;loreal usually 1, not in contact with internasals;pre-oculars 1–2, postoculars 2 subocular, usually 1;anterior temporals 1–2, posterior temporals 2–4;supralabials usually 9, only the fifth or fifth to sixth supralabial (rarely none) in contact with the orbit;infralabials usually 9–10;first pair of chin shields longer than the second pair;dorsal scales smooth anteriorly, keeled posteriorly, in (17–19)-17-17 rows;tails relatively short, TaL/TL 0.143–0.161;pre ventrals 0–4, ventrals 160–176, precloacal divided; 48–56 divided subcaudals;uniform olive-grey dorsum, with a dark longitudinal lateral stripe within the dark flank colouration, ventral side pale or light yellow, without sharp transition towards the dark dorsal colouration, subcaudal region may bear dark mottling.This finding broadly extends our understanding of this poorly-known snake species and raises the total known Opisthotropis number in China to 14. Moreover, this study reports the second Opisthotropis species in Yunnan Province, China.
["new national record"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

One new species of Drapetisca Menge, 1866 (Araneae, Linyphiidae) from Gele Mountain, Chongqing, China
The genus Drapetisca comprises 7 species distributed in Canada, Central Asia, China, Caucasus, Europe, Japan, Russia (Europe to the Far East), and the USA, out of which five species have been recorded in China (World Spider Catalog 2025). The males and females of Drapetisca can be distinguished from all other Linyphiidae genera by the palpal distal arm of the paracymbium anchor-shaped in the retrolateral view and the protruding epigyne without a scape.While examining Linyphiidae Blackwall, 1859 specimens from Gele Mountain in Chongqing, we discovered a new species of the genus Drapetisca, D. dentata sp. nov. Detailed descriptions, photographs of copulatory organs and somatic features, and a distribution map are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies"]

Yunnan field mouse Apodemus ilex O. Thomas, 1922 (Rodentia, Muridae); a new species and genus for the Vietnamese fauna, first recorded from Son La Province
During fieldwork conducted in the Bac Yen District of Son La Province, near the Ta Xua Nature Reserve, a representative of a previously never registered genus and species of rodent in Vietnam, the Yunnan field mouse (A. ilex O. Thomas, 1922), was discovered.This finding significantly expands our knowledge of the distribution of Apodemus species in northeastern Indochina. Morphological and genetic analysis of the specimen ruled out accidental introduction and established that the Vietnamese population is natural and belongs to the eastern phylogenetic branch of this species, which also inhabits the southern Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, as well as the upper reaches of the Mekong, Hong Ha, and Da Rivers. Thus, the list of rodent species and genera in Vietnam has been expanded with a new species. Data on the species' geographic distribution across its range are also provided.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A new species of Coelotes Blackwall, 1841 (Araneae, Agelenidae, Coelotinae) from Huaping National Nature Reserve, northeast Guangxi, southern China
The genus Coelotes Blackwall, 1841, comprises 156 species, primarily distributed in East Asia, including Japan (64 species), China (56 species) and Korea (1 species). Currently, only two species of this genus have been recorded in Guangxi, China.A new coelotine species, Coelotes fani Zhou, sp. nov. (♂♀), is described from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. This includes a detailed description, diagnosis, illustrations and a distribution map of this species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Transcriptome characterization and population genetics of Ludisia discolor (Ker Gawl.) A.Rich (Orchidaceae): implication for its conservation in Vietnam
The combined pressures of overharvesting for ornamental and medicinal markets, along with pervasive habitat degradation, have precipitated a critical threat to wild populations of the jewel orchid, Ludisia discolor, within the biodiversity hotspots of Vietnam. The development of robust molecular tools is therefore essential to inform effective conservation strategies. This study established a suite of polymorphic Expressed Sequence Tag-derived Simple Sequence Repeat (EST-SSR) markers for L. discolor and applied them to assess genetic diversity and population structure. Transcriptome sequencing on the Illumina HiSeq™ 4000 platform yielded 44,764,702 high-quality reads. De novo assembly generated 26,271 unigenes (N50 = 2,160 bp; Q30 = 96.3%), which were comprehensively annotated against public databases (Nr, Swiss-Prot) and classified into Gene Ontology, KOG, and KEGG pathways. From 9,495 identified EST-SSR loci, 15 highly polymorphic markers were validated. Analysis of Vietnamese populations revealed moderate genetic diversity (Na = 3.17; He = 0.54; PIC = 0.59). Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated significant genetic differentiation, with 23% of variation partitioned among populations. Bayesian clustering, Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA), and Neighbor-Joining (NJ) tree reconstruction consistently identified two distinct genetic clusters correlated with geography, suggesting restricted gene flow. These transcriptome-derived EST-SSR markers have proven effective for population genetic studies in L. discolor. The genomic resources and findings presented here provide a critical foundation for genetic monitoring and support the integration of molecular data into conservation and restoration programs for this ecologically and culturally significant orchid.
["Ludisia discolor"]
["Biological and pharmacological studies of plants", "Plant and animal studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new species of Theridion Walckenaer, 1805 (Araneae, Theridiidae) from Ganjiangyuan National Nature Reserve, southern China
The genus Theridion Walckenaer, 1805 comprises 577 species, distributed all over the world and it is common in habitat species, such as grasses, barks and deciduous layers.A new cobweb species, Theridion ganjiangyuan Zhou, sp. nov., is described from the Ganjiangyuan National Nature Reserve, in Jiangxi Province, China. A detailed description, diagnosis, illustrations and a distribution map of the new species are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

A survey of egg-parasitoid species associated with Dendrolimus houi (Lepidoptera, Lasiocampidae) in Fujian, China
Dendrolimus houi Lajonquiere is a polyphagous defoliator with strong adaptability causing significant damage to hundreds of hectares of pine forest. The larvae primarily damage coniferous tree species. Given that the average female fecundity exceeds 300 eggs, population suppression prior to larval eclosion is critical to prevent massive infestations and minimise losses. The use of egg-parasitoids represents a biologically optimal control strategy, as they effectively attack non-migratory eggs and egg masses, while avoiding the drawbacks of chemical pesticides, such as resistance, residue and pest resurgence. Therefore, systematic field investigations are needed to identify and collect native dominant parasitoids of D. houi for subsequent mass rearing and release.This study reports six parasitoid wasp species emerging from D. houi eggs: Eupelmidae: Mesocomys menzeli (Ferrière), Mesocomys trabalae (Yao et Yang), Anastatus (Anastatus) gastropachae Ashmead, Anastatus (Anastatus) meilingensis Sheng and Yu; Scelionidae: Telenomus dendrolimi (Matsumura); and Trichogrammatidae: Trichogramma chilonis Ishii. We compared key biological characteristics, including parasitism rate, longevity, offspring quantity and sex ratio, across all eight species. Based on this analysis, T. dendrolimiwas identified as the dominant egg-parasitoid.This study fills a critical gap in the systematic investigation of D. houi egg-parasitoids in Fujian, China. Our findings provide a scientific basis for the mass rearing and field release of these parasitoids, thereby supporting the biological control of D. houi in Chinese forests.
["biological control"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

Comparative analysis on rhizosphere microorganisms of Cynodon dactylon (Poaceae) from the natural restoration area and eco-restoration engineering area in water-level-fluctuation zone of Jinsha River-type reservoirs, China
Rhizosphere microorganisms may play an important role in plant growth and environmental adaptation during eco-restoration engineering in the water-level-fluctuation zone (WLFZ) of large river-type reservoirs. The purpose of this study is to compare the rhizosphere microbial community features of Cynodon dactylon derived from the natural restoration area (NEE) and eco-restoration engineering area (YEE) in the WLFZ of Jinsha River-type reservoirs using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic analyses. The dominant taxa were Proteobacteria and Ascomycota in C. dactylon rhizosphere from both NEE and YEE. The eco-restoration engineering improved the α-diversity of bacterial community, but reduced the diversity of fungal community. Eco-restoration engineering did not change the dominant pattern of aerobic respiration I (cytochrome c) [PWY-3781] and aerobic respiration II (cytochrome c, yeast) [PWY-7279] metabolic pathways in the rhizosphere microbial community. Many microbes (such as Alphaproteobacteria and Sphingomonadaceae) in YEE were identified as significantly enriched biomarkers, while the key biomarkers in the rhizosphere in NEE are relatively limited where Burkholderiaceae and Burkholderiales may be the key characteristic microbe. Our study provides a theoretical basis and potential clue for understanding the role of eco-restoration engineering in the re-assembly of rhizosphere microorganisms and supporting vegetation restoration in the WLFZ of large river-type reservoirs.
["water-level-fluctuation zone"]
["Plant responses to water stress", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Constructed Wetlands for Wastewater Treatment"]

First records of Opius and Apodesmia (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Opiinae) from South Korea, with descriptions of newly-recorded species
The subfamily Opiinae comprises more than 2,000 valid species worldwide. Members of this subfamily are koinobiont endoparasitoids, with parasitism generally culminating in the eventual death of the host. Several species of Opiinae have been utilised for biological control of agricultural pests. The genus Opius is the largest genus within Opiinae, with more than 1,000 valid species worldwide. It is divided into several subgenera, classification of which remains under active discussion. The genus Apodesmia was formerly regarded as a subgenus of Opius, but was elevated to genus level, based on differences in the form of the occipital carina.Opius youi Li & van Achterberg, 2013 is recorded for the first time from South Korea, representing the first record of the species outside China. Apodesmia incisula Fischer, 1963 is also newly recorded from South Korea, constituting the first record of the species outside Europe, where it was previously known from Germany and the Netherlands. For each species, detailed morphological descriptions are provided, accompanied by diagnostic characters illustrated with photographs of the relevant body structures. The barcode region of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) was also analysed for the species.

Cassida piperata Hope, 1843 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae), a non-native beetle, new to Italy and Europe
Maintaining sustained vigilance over the introduction and spread of non-native species is of critical importance.Cassida piperata, a leaf beetle native to the East Palaearctic and Indomalayan Regions, has been repeatedly recorded in northern Italy since 2021, where it appears to be established as a non-native species new to Europe. Its local occurrence is discussed, based on records obtained by the authors and from citizen-science web platforms and its potential for further spread in Europe is evaluated through bioclimatic modelling.
["faunistic"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

First record of the adult of Cymbalcloeon confirming its position in Baetidae (Insecta, Ephemeroptera)
The nymphs of Cymbalcloeon sartorii Suttinun et al., 2020 present several unusual characters such as having only three pairs of ventral gills. The imaginal stage of this recently described genus remains unknown.In Spring 2025, tens of nymphs as well as morphologically and molecularly associated adults of this species were collected in southwestern China. This represents the first recorded occurrence of the genus in China, and indeed, the first report outside Thailand. The male imagos have tiny bodies, clear median longitudinal ridge on mesonotum, one pair of wings without any marginal intercalary veins, relatively long apical segment of styliger, and distinct penis cover. The morphology of this species shows it is close to Baetopus Keffermüller, 1960 in the subfamily Cloeoninae. However, it lost some key structures, like marginal intercalaries, hindwings and most gills.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Hidden in the daylight: A polyphasic approach reveals two bioluminescent Mycenaceae species from Yunnan Province, China (Basidiomycota, Agaricales)
Yunnan Province, recognised as a biodiversity hotspot in China, is a rich source of fungal diversity that we are just beginning to explore. During our investigation of bioluminescent mushrooms in this region, we collected four specimens from the family Mycenaceae. We conducted morphological characterisation, multilocus phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1-α and rpb2) and photographed specimens under completely dark conditions.In this paper, we report on two bioluminescent mushrooms of Mycenaceae collected in Yunnan Province, China. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses revealed Mycena semivestipes, which was first observed with bioluminescence and Roridomyces pruinosoviscidus, which has not been previously recorded in China. Additionally, we provide descriptions, illustrations, phylogenetic analysis results and photographs that highlight the bioluminescent features of these taxa. This study enhances our understanding of bioluminescent mushroom diversity in the Yunnan Province, raising the total number of bioluminescent mushrooms reported from China to 36.
["bioluminescent fungi"]
["bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Bacterial biofilms and quorum sensing", "Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies"]

Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) of the Nature Reserve of Pantalica (Sicily, Italy)
The hymenopteran family Ichneumonidae (also known as Darwin wasps) represents one of the largest families of parasitoid insects. However, faunistic research is needed to fill the gaps in the knowledge of the biodiversity of this group in the Mediterranean area and Italy.A faunistic survey on Darwin's wasps of the Nature Reserve of Pantalica (Siracusa, Sicily, Italy) is presented. A total of 81 species of ichneumonids belonging to 19 subfamilies were identified. Of these, 42 species are new records for Sicily and nine species are new records for Italy. The subfamilies Adelognathinae and Oxytorinae are reported for the first time in Sicily.Misetus obscurus Berthoumieu, 1897 stat. rev. (Ichneumoninae, Phaeogenini), originally described as a colour form of M. oculatus Wesmael, 1845, is raised to species level, based on both morphological and molecular data.

A new genus and a new species in the tribe Eryciini (Diptera, Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in north-western Costa Rica
openalex
A new genus and species of within the tribe Eryciini are described from the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in north-western Costa Rica. Specimens were reared from wild-caught caterpillars collected during an ongoing biodiversity inventory within the ACG. An integrative taxonomic approach was used to characterise the new taxa, incorporating morphological analysis, life history data and DNA barcodes, supported by high-resolution photographs. Furthermore, two new combinations are proposed and the associated species are re-described. A lectotype is designated for Exorista loxostegae (Reinhard, 1922) and an identification key to the species of the new genus is provided.The description of the new genus Santarosamyia Fleming and Wood, 2024 gen. nov. along with the new species: Santarosamyia woodorum Fleming & Wood sp. nov. are provided.The following new combinations are proposed: Nilea erecta (Coquillett, 1902) as Santarosamyia erecta (Coquillett, 1902) comb. nov.; Nilea uniplilum (Aldrich & Webber, 1924) as Santarosamyia unipilum (Aldrich & Webber, 1924) comb. nov.A lectotype is designated for Exorista loxostegae (Reinhard, 1922).Tachinidae, Diptera, Costa Rica, CO1, Parasitoid, Guanacaste
["Tribe", "Genus", "Taxonomy (biology)", "Type (biology)"]

A new species record of Hemiphyllodactylus lungcuensis Luu, Nguyen, Do, Pham, Hoang, Nguyen, Le, Ziegler, Grismer & Grismer, 2023 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Yunnan Province in China
Hemiphyllodactylus lungcuensis Luu, Nguyen, Do, Pham, Hoang, Nguyen, Le, Ziegler, Grismer & Grismer was described in 2023, based on seven specimens. Its type locality is Lung Cu Commune, Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province, in north-eastern Vietnam, near the Sino-Vietnamese border. Currently, the species is known only from the type locality; there are no records of its occurrence in China.On 10 August 2025, we collected a single Hemiphyllodactylus specimen in Lida Town, Funing County, Yunnan Province, China. In the phylogenetic tree, this individual clusters with the paratypes and holotype of H. lungcuensis with strong support. The specimen from China agrees well with the original morphological description of the species and has a minor mean genetic distance of 1.9% in the ND2 gene with the type specimen of this species. Here, we report the first record of H. lungcuensis for China.
["Funing County"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new subspecies of Avitta fasciosa Moore, 1882 (Lepidoptera, Erebidae) from Korea
The genus Avitta Walker is a quite well-known taxon due to the commitment of previous cladistic research, which was considered in terms of biogeography and included a number species (13 valid species and two undescribed female-based species). Given that there are 18 named species, Holloway's work is significant not only from a biogeographic perspective, but also from a taxonomic and phylogenetic standpoint.In this study, we recorded a new subspecies, Avitta fasciosa koreana ssp. nov., found on a southern island of Korea, with illustrations and genital features. This is not only just a recording, but also a demonstration that the moth species’ samples, which are generally considered tropical species found in East Asia, can be a separate population or species, but not just the results of migration.
["biogeography"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

First description of the female of Calamaria andersoni Yang & Zheng, 2018 (Squamata, Calamariidae), with an expanded diagnosis
Calamaria andersoni Yang & Zheng, 2018, was originally described from a single adult male collected in Dehong Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. Until now, no female specimens had been reported, limiting understanding of sexual dimorphism and diagnostic variation. Based on newly collected material from Mangshi City and Lianghe County, we identified five males and one female as C. andersoni through morphological comparisons and mitochondrial cytochrome b gene analysis.We provide the first morphological description of the female and revise the species diagnosis based on both sexes. The female is distinguishable by a higher number of ventrals and fewer subcaudals. Genetic data confirmed all specimens as belonging to a well-supported clade of C. andersoni, which is 9.8–10.1% divergent from C. yunnanensis. The known distribution of the species is extended to lower elevations (1,185–1,315 m a.s.l.) within tropical evergreen forests of Dehong. Given its relatively broad elevational range and occurrence in mature forests but no apparent population threats, we propose its conservation status as Least Concern (LC) under IUCN criteria. These findings provide new insight into sexual dimorphism, distribution, and species-level boundaries in Calamaria, emphasising the importance of continued surveys in underexplored montane regions of Yunnan and adjacent northern Myanmar.
["Reed Snake"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A new species and a new record of the genus Cunaxa von Heyden (Prostigmata, Cunaxidae) from Saudi Arabia, with a key to the world species
The members of the genus Cunaxa von Heyden, known as free-living predators, feed on small arthropods and invertebrates in soil. The genus comprises more than 70 described species reported from different regions around the world. In this study, a new species, C. acaciae sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on females, and C. womersleyi Baker and Hoffmann is reported as a new record to the cunaxid mite fauna of Saudi Arabia.A new species of the genus Cunaxa von Heyden, C. acaciae sp. nov., is described and illustrated, based on females collected from soil under Acacia sp. (Fabaceae). In addition, C. womersleyi Baker and Hoffmann is reported as new to the cunaxid mite fauna of Saudi Arabia. An updated key to the species of the genus Cunaxa is provided.
["Alhasher Mountain"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of Otacilia Thorell, 1897 (Phrurolithidae) from Baima Mountain Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China
The genus Otacilia Thorell, 1897 comprises 141 species worldwide, with 118 (approximately 84%) distributed in China.Two new species of the genus Otacilia are described from Baima Mountain Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China: Otacilia baimashan Shi, Wang & Mu, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Otacilia wulong Shi, Wang & Mu, sp. nov. (♂♀). Detailed description, photos of habitus and copulatory organs of the new species are provided.
["classification"]

Macrobenthic communities of the continental shelf of Heraklion Bay (Crete, Greece): bathymetric distribution and temporal trends
The Gulf of Heraklion is one of the most well-studied coastal marine ecosystems in the eastern Mediterranean. It is an oligotrophic area, exposed to wave action where muddy sediments prevail and its coastal zone is relatively unaffected by major riverine inputs. However, it faces pressures deriving from urbanisation, tourism, small-scale fisheries and climate change. Amongst its biological components, macrobenthos is an important component of soft-bottom habitats of the continental shelf and considered to be an indicator of environmental and human-induced disturbance. Nevertheless, long-term data are limited, thus restricting our understanding of their temporal trends. This is of particular importance for the Mediterranean Sea which is characterised as a hot spot of biodiversity and climate change impacts on its biota.The macrοbenthic faunal communities were investigated in the continental shelf of Heraklion Bay within the framework of the European funded project entitled MARine Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functioning leading to Ecosystem Services (MARBEFES), with the objective to enhance the understanding of marine biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and the ecosystem services they provide. Additional studies, with the same objectives, were carried under national and local monitoring programmes. Samples were collected from a specific transect of stations, named H2 (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 100 and 200 m depth), located in the wider marine area of the wastewater treatment plant of Heraklion City. The transect was sampled during three different sampling surveys and periods: June 2010, June 2015 and August 2024.A total of 30,280 individuals were examined belonging to the taxonomic groups of Annelida, Crustacea, Mollusca, Echinodermata, Nemertea and varia. The identification of the key taxonomic classes (Polychaeta, Bivalvia, Gastropoda, Scaphopoda and Malacostraca) revealed 231 macrobenthic taxa. Out of the 231 taxa, only 30 were common amongst all the three sampling periods, while Polychaeta was the most abundant macrobenthic group in all sampling periods.
["macrobenthos"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Old cemeteries help to protect endangered and protected vascular plant species in the Right–Bank of Dnipro Grass Steppe District, southern Ukraine
The dataset contains records of vascular plant species occurrences and distribution in 39 old cemeteries of the Right–Bank Dnipro Grass Steppe District (southern Ukraine). It documents 635 vascular plant species. Notably, the high vascular plant diversity of old cemeteries includes 58 protected species (10.4% of the total recorded flora) with varying conservation statuses. The dataset underscores the conservation significance of old cemeteries in southern Ukraine by documenting the presence of protected species. Old cemeteries contribute to the conservation of endangered and protected vascular plant species outside legally protected steppe areas. Therefore, where they are abundant, they may play an important role in the future restitution of the European and Eurasian steppes.The dataset contains 6,923 occurrences of vascular plants (635 species) recorded in 2023-2024 in 39 old cemeteries of the Right–Bank Dnipro Grass Steppe District. The dataset includes information on 427 occurrences of 58 protected species of particular conservation interest mentioned in Resolution 6 of the Bern Convention as well as in the Red Data Book of Ukraine and regional Red Lists. This dataset highlights the significance of old cemeteries as pivotal refugia for vascular plant biodiversity within southern Ukraine. The high number of endangered and protected vascular plant species present in old cemeteries provides a critical opportunity for future conservation efforts, thereby contributing directly to biodiversity protection objectives.
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

First records of Epeus bicuspidatus and description of a new species of Epeus (Araneae, Salticidae) from Vietnam
Epeus is a genus of jumping spiders (Salticidae) comprising 20 species, four of which have been recorded in Vietnam.In this paper, we present descriptions and illustrations of two jumping spider species of the genus Epeus from Vietnam. Epeus bicuspidatus (Song, Gu & Chen, 1988) is recorded from the country for the first time, while Epeus taybac Vu & Pham, sp. nov., is described here as new to science. These findings improve the current understanding of Epeus diversity in Vietnam, bringing the total number of known species of this genus in the country to six.
["Epeus"]

A contribution to the fauna of nocturnal macrolepidoptera of La Maddalena and Asinara National Parks, Sardinia
The Mediterranean Basin is recognised as global biodiversity hotspot, with islands playing a crucial role in sustaining high levels of endemism due to their geological complexity, biogeographical history and habitat heterogeneity. Despite this, many Mediterranean islands remain underexplored from a faunistic perspective, particularly regarding nocturnal Lepidoptera.This study provides new faunistic data on the nocturnal macrolepidoptera of two protected areas in the north of Sardinia: Asinara and La Maddalena islands. A total of 875 specimens were collected, representing 98 species across four families. Of these, 62 species were recorded on the La Maddalena and 78 on the Asinara islands. Notably, nine species are newly reported for La Maddalena, increasing the known macrolepidopteran fauna of the archipelago. Our study provides novel insights especially to the knowledge of the Asinara Island which remains poorly investigated due to its historical restricted access. This study offers a baseline for future ecological and biogeographical research and highlights the need for ongoing faunistic surveys in Mediterranean island systems. Furthermore, this study underscores the biogeographical importance of these islands which host rich moth communities despite their small size.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Birds of the Tolima Department of Colombia’s central Andean Region
The information in this article corresponds to a compilation of data from scientific journals, ornithological collections and virtual libraries (xeno-song, eBird and Biomap), as well as our contributions during more than 15 years of studies in Tolima. Together, this information allows us to understand the diversity of birds in the region. In addition, this article includes data on localities and the altitudinal and geographical distribution of each species. The results indicate the presence of 800 bird species in Tolima, of which 24 are endemic, 69 are near-endemic and 82 are migratory. Furthermore, 42 species face some degree of threat, two are classified as having deficient data and four have been introduced.This list constitutes a reference for studies of birds of the Upper Magdalena Valley. It is a necessary tool for conservation plans in this region of the country.
["bird diversity"]
["Water Resource Management and Quality", "Franz Kafka Literary Studies", "Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses"]

First report Xenocorixa vittipennis (Horváth) (Hemiptera, Corixoidea, Corixidae) from South Korea and checklist of the Korean Corixoidea
Xenocorixa Hungerford, 1947 is a monotypic genus containing a single species, Xenocorixa vittipennis (Horváth, 1879), known only from China (Beijing, Hubei, Shandong, Shanghai, Tianjin, Zhejiang), Japan (Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu) and Taiwan.Xenocorixa vittipennis (Horváth, 1879) is reported from South Korea for the first time. A diagnosis and supplementary description of this species are provided, together with illustrations of the adult and genitalia. A revised checklist of Korean Corixoidea is also provided.
["aquatic bugs"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Research on scale insects"]

Two new species of the genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from the Nangunhe Nature Reserve, Yunnan Province, China
The spider genus Trilacuna Tong & Li, 2007, currently comprises 32 species known from China, of which 15 species are from Yunnan and one species, i.e. T. wumanshan Tong, Yang & Zhang, 2023 is recorded from the Nangunhe Nature Reserve, Yunnan.Two new Trilacuna species, Trilacuna jimengi Dai & Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Trilacuna nangunhe Dai & Tong, sp. nov. (♂♀), are described, based on specimens collected from the Nangunhe Nature Reserve, Yunnan Province. Morphological descriptions and photomicroscopy images of the new species are given.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A long-term ecological research dataset from the marine genetic monitoring programme ARMS-MBON 2020-2021
openalex
Continuing the international efforts of the ARMS Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (ARMS-MBON), we present data from the second sampling campaign, coming from 56 Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) deployed in 2020 and 2021 along European coasts under the European Marine Omics Biodiversity Observation Network (EMO BON). The dataset includes information on sampling locations and conditions, sample archiving and quality reports of collected samples. Data and metadata are openly accessible and can be downloaded from the associated GitHub repository. Sequence data can be accessed via the European Nucleotide Archive (ENA) through the corresponding accession numbers. Images of ARMS plates are stored on PlutoF and can be downloaded through links provided in this paper. Sequence data were processed and explored with the PEMA pipeline, resulting in 17,194, 7,235 and 5,261 unique ASVs/OTUs for COI, 18S and ITS, respectively. In this dataset, ARMS revealed the presence of over 61 eukaryotic phyla, aligning with our previous sampling campaign. Amongst these phyla, 35 had sequences identified to the species level. With this dataset and its associated paper, we provide a standardised resource for marine biodiversity monitoring and scientific analyses of benthic biodiversity. The presented data product supports future studies on the status and changes in species composition, distribution and genetic diversity.
["Metadata", "Biodiversity", "Sampling (signal processing)", "Resource (disambiguation)", "Benthic zone", "Accession", "Citizen science", "Environmental monitoring", "Marine biodiversity"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

First description of the male and hemipenial morphology of Opisthotropis haihaensis Ziegler et al., 2019 (Serpentes, Natricidae), with updated diagnosis and distribution
The Haiha Mountain Stream Keelback, Opisthotropis haihaensis Ziegler, Pham, Nguyen, Nguyen, Wang, Wang, Stuart & Le, 2019, was originally described based on a single female specimen from northern Vietnam. To date, only two female specimens have been reported, rendering O. haihaensis one of the least studied members of its genus.During recent herpetological surveys in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China, one male and one female specimen of Opisthotropis were collected from Qinzhou City. Phylogenetic analyses and detailed morphological comparisons identified these individuals as O. haihaensis. Based on these new specimens, we provide the first description of the male of this species, including hemipenial morphology, along with revised diagnostic features and new data on its natural history and distribution.
["Natricidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Contribution to the subfamily Panchaetothripinae (Thysanoptera, Thripidae) from Saudi Arabia, with two new genera records and an illustrated key
The subfamily Panchaetothripinae Bagnall (Thysanoptera, Thripidae) comprises about 150 species belonging to 42 genera worldwide. Amongst these, twelve species belonging to six genera were previously recorded from the Arabian Peninsula, including eight species in four genera from Saudi Arabia. The Faunistic studies on the subfamily have been confined to the tropical and subtropical parts of Africa, America, Southeast Asia and Australia. However, the tropical regions of the Arabian Peninsula remained under-studied, with no considerable work having been done on this subfamily.We present the first illustrated key to the Panchaetothripinae genera of the Arabian Peninsula and a checklist of Arabian species to facilitate their recognition. Moreover, two genera and species, Hercinothrips femoralis (Reuter) and Rhipiphorothrips cruentatus Hood, are recorded as new to Saudi Arabia. New distributional data for each species is also given. The presence of greenhouse thrips Heliothrips haemorrhoidalis Bouche in the country is doubtful. The species has not been recovered despite extensive surveys across the country spanning over six years. However, it is kept in the Arabian species list until further confirmations.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Dataset on bryophyte species distribution across an elevational gradient on Flores Island
A bryophyte diversity survey was carried out from July 29 to 1 August 2013, in Santa Cruz das Flores, Flores Island (Azores) (39.471185 N Latitude; -31.184692 W Longitude), along an elevational gradient (70, 200, 400, 600 and 800 m a.s.l.). The study employed the Global Island Monitoring Scheme (GIMS) protocol for bryophytes. At each elevation level, three replicates of six substrates colonised by bryophytes (rock, soil, humus, dead wood, tree trunks, leaves) were collected. In total, 385 sampling events generated 1345 species occurrence records, representing 89 bryophyte species (37 mosses; 52 liverworts).The acrocarpous moss Fissidens azoricus (P.de la Varde) Bizot, listed as "Critically Endangered" by the IUCN, had not been reported from Flores Island since 1937; this is the first publication with new locations for the species.The altitudinal gradient revealed an increase in species richness and abundance with elevation, following a mid-elevation peak pattern, with the highest richness between 400 m a.s.l. (52 species; 364 records) and 600 m a.s.l. (54 species; 402 records), followed by a decline at 800 m a.s.l. (33 species; 148 records). At 70 m a.s.l., 20 species were identified (128 records) and, at 200 m a.s.l., 35 species were recorded (232 records). In terms of substrate preference, the highest species richness and abundance were found colonising epiphytic substrates (58 species; 424 records), followed by terricolous substrates (44 species; 233 records).
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

Thieves and freeloaders: Argyrodine kleptoparasites invading cobwebs (Theridiidae) in the arid south-western USA
Obligate argyrodine kleptoparasites (Theridiidae, Araneae) exploit heterospecific spider webs for food and shelter. Argyrodine spiders are a model lineage for the study of kleptoparasitism and related strategies, yet data on the behaviour of the majority of the over 250 argyrodine species is lacking. Here, we help fill that knowledge gap by documenting the natural history of two poorly-known species. We studied Argyrodes pluto and Neospintharus baboquivari in the webs of two other cobweb spiders, the western black widow (Latrodectus hesperus) and Tidarren sisyphoides, across four sites in southern Arizona. Argyrodes pluto completes its life cycle in L. hesperus webs and specialises on host egg sacs, displacing them to the periphery and feeding on eggs and juveniles; this behaviour appears essential for its reproduction. Neospintharus baboquivari occurs gregariously in both host webs, gleaning small prey. In contrast, N. baboquivari is reportedly a solitary araneophage in the colonial orb webs of Philoponella oweni. We quantified egg sac displacement and describe foraging, mating, egg sac construction and interactions with parasitoids and predators. These findings reveal novel natural history information and expand our understanding of argyrodine behavioural plasticity
["kleptoparasitism"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A newly-recorded species, Roeslerstammia erxlebella (Fabricius, 1787) (Lepidoptera, Roeslerstammiidae) from Korea, with a key to species of the genus and DNA barcoding analysis
The genus Roeslerstammia Zeller, 1839, the type genus of the family Roeslerstammiidae, comprises a total of four species on a global scale. The type species, Roeslerstammia erxlebella (Fabricius, 1787) is distributed across the Palaearctic Region, from Europe to Japan. However, the presence of this species has only been confirmed in European countries, Russia and Japan.The present study reports the first record of Roeslerstammia erxlebella in Korea, specifically from Odae-san National Park. This paper constitutes a review of the taxonomic history of the family Roeslerstammiidae and the genus Roeslerstammia. A thorough taxonomic account of the recently documented species, R. erxlebella, is presented, accompanied by a taxonomic key and an illustrated map delineating the geographical distribution of the genus Roeslerstammia. Furthemore, the DNA Barcode data of a Korean individual was made available, alongside public data from BOLD systems. The DNA Barcoding analysis further indicates that the Korean individual is R. erxlebella.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Rodent species composition in urban and forested areas in eastern Germany
Zoonoses are major concerns for public health and after the recent pandemic, have been under a global spotlight for their often unpredictable spread and rapid evolution. In particular, the relationship between wildlife biodiversity and zoonoses lies at the core of the challenges of disease dynamics in a changing world. To address the challenge of rodent-borne diseases, transmitted by rodents acting as hosts for various zoonoses and thriving in different environments, we focus on rodent species composition in European temperate forests and urban parks, where human-wildlife interactions are likely to occur. Using live-trapping, we describe rodent communities for integration into an eco-health framework.The dataset introduced here is part of the European project BiodivERsA-BioRodDis (https://www6.inrae.fr/biodiversa-bioroddis), whose goal is to examine the connection between rodent biodiversity, the dynamics of rodent-borne diseases and temporal variations in a changing climate. We provide records of small mammals (Rodentia) captured from forested habitats, with different levels of urbanisation in northeast Germany, within the district of Potsdam (Brandenburg). The trapping took place between winter 2020 and spring 2022 at four different sites. All four sites were sampled in winter 2020, three were revisited in spring 2021 and two in autumn 2021 and spring 2022. This variation was mainly due to logistical constraints and low trapping success at some sites. Using live traps, we collected a total of 620 occurrence records of rodents, including the species Apodemus flavicollis, Apodemus agrarius, Myodes glareolus and Microtus arvalis. A subset of the captures (n = 264) was subsequently dissected for pathogen screening and gut microbiome characterisation, not reported here.
["small mammals"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

Ocean Species Discoveries 13–27 — Taxonomic contributions to the diversity of Polychaeta, Mollusca and Crustacea
Despite centuries of exploration, marine invertebrate biodiversity remains notably under-described. The majority of species in major marine groups are still unnamed, limiting our ability to understand and conserve ecosystems facing rapid environmental change. The rate of species discovery continues to outpace the formal process of species description. This gap creates an urgent need for streamlined, scalable approaches to taxonomy. The SENCKENBERG OCEAN SPECIES ALLIANCE was founded to help meet this challenge by facilitating global collaboration, offering technical support for species documentation and promoting efficient taxonomic publishing. Within this framework, Ocean Species Discoveries provides a forum for concise, but data-rich descriptions of marine invertebrate taxa. This second collection presents a diverse set of taxonomic contributions, based on recent and historical collections, including newly-described species and a re-description of a previously poorly-known taxon. The integrative documentation of the taxa treated herein was facilitated by the newly-established Discovery Laboratory at the Senckenberg Research Institute, the first service unit dedicated to supporting alpha taxonomists.This article presents 14 new species and one re-description, two new genera, with taxa spanning three phyla. Newly-described taxa comprise two polychaete annelids: Nicon salinus Hernández-Alcántara & Dávila-Jiménez, sp. nov. and Spinther bohnorum Tilic & Rouse, sp. nov. Molluscs span four classes, with three polyplacophorans: Craspedochiton zefranki Vončina, sp. nov., Ferreiraella charazata Sigwart, sp. nov. and a new genus with type species Pycnodontochiton sinensis Sirenko, Zhang & Sigwart, gen. et sp. nov. and Pycnodontochiton tenuidontus (Saito and Okutani, 1990), comb. nov. The new monoplacophoran Veleropilina gretchenae Sigwart & Steger, sp. nov. is one of the first species of this class with a high-quality genome, published from the specimen that is now the holotype. The scaphopod Laevidentalium wiesei Sahlmann, 2012 represents a re-description and range extension and the bivalve Myonera aleutiana Machado & Sigwart, sp. nov. is the second bivalve including an anatomical description with non-invasive methods using micro-CT. Amongst crustaceans, there are two new amphipod species: Apotectonia senckenbergae Momtazi & Riehl, sp. nov. and Metharpinia hirsuta Souza-Filho & Andrade, sp. nov. Three isopod species were described, including the parasitic species Zeaione everta Boyko & Williams, sp. nov. that is the only species in the new genus Zeaione Boyko & Williams, gen. nov. and two free-living isopods: Haploniscus bulbosus Henseler, Knauber & Riehl, sp. nov. and Macrostylis peteri Riehl, sp. nov. Finally, there are two new tanaidaceans: Hoplopolemius olo Jóźwiak & Stępień, sp. nov. and Nesotanais thalassinus Stępień, sp. nov.The data used for the description of ten of the species and one of the new genera treated herein were wholly or partially obtained at the SOSA Discovery Laboratory using integrative methods including light and electron microscopy, confocal imaging, molecular barcoding and micro-CT scanning. Additional novel findings include the first record of the family Macrostylidae and the genus Macrostylis G. O. Sars, 1864 from Australian waters (Macrostylis peteri, sp. nov.) and novel host associations: Ferreiraella charazata, sp. nov. is documented with epibiotic tubeworms on its tail valves that are typical of this genus and the decapod Eucalliaxiopsis aequimana (Baker, 1907) is newly recorded as a host for bopyrid isopods, representing the first such record for the family Eucalliacidae.

A new terrestrial talitrid genus, Kachinorchestia, with a new species from Myanmar (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Arcitalitridae)
The Arcitalitridae (Amphipoda, Senticaudata, Talitrida, Talitroidea) is a diverse family containing 15 genera, of which Myanmarorchestia Hou, 2017 and Solitroides Suzuki, Nakano, Nguyen, Nguyen, Morino & Tomikawa, 2017 were reported in Southeast Asia. During research of terrestrial amphipods in Myanmar, we found character traits of some specimens did not match any existing genus of the family Arcitalitridae. These specimens should belong to a new genus.This new genus Kachinorchestia Hou, gen. nov. with one new species Kachinorchestia putao Hou, sp. nov. is described from terrestrial habitats in Myanmar. This new genus is characterised by mandible left lacinia mobilis with four teeth, gnathopod II propodus of male enlarged, oval and subchelate, with hook posteriorly, simplidactylate pereopods, complex and lobed gills and telson uncleft. Photos, molecular and morphological descriptions of new genus are provided.
["landhopper"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

First record of Diplotaxis kohlaanensis (Brassicaceae) for the eastern African flora with taxonomical and phytogeographical remarks
Diplotaxis (Brassicaceae) is a genus widely distributed in the temperate areas of Europe, Asia and Africa, reaching its greatest diversity in NW Africa, Cape Verde and the Mediterranean area. In eastern Africa, this genus is only represented by D. harra (Forssk.) Boiss. in Somalia and Djibouti, while no native species of Diplotaxis have been recorded from Ethiopia.The finding of Diplotaxis kohlaanensis A.G. Mill. & J.A. Nyberg, originally described from northern Yemen, is here reported for the first time in the Simien Mountains. Our finding has a particular phytogeographical and ecological significance, highlighting the relevant floristic relationships of the Arabian Peninsula mountains with the Ethiopian highlands. In addition, our investigations confirm the outstanding number of exclusive taxa shared by these two areas testifying to the past phytogeographical connection between these two territories. D. kohlaanensis is localised on the high-altitude cliffs, which represent a highly conservative environment for relict species. Finally, the taxonomical relationships of this taxon within the Diplotaxis harra complex are also examined.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Factors determining the survival or mortality of Nyctereutes procyonoides (Canidae) rescued by a wildlife rescue centre: Is urbanisation a threat to wildlife?
Effective wildlife conservation requires an understanding of species' ecological characteristics and identifying survival-threatening factors. Specifically, mitigating anthropogenic threats is imperative for wildlife facing human-wildlife conflicts, such as raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides). This study analysed data collected over 11 years on raccoon dogs rescued in South Korea, categorising 1,123 rescue cases, based on seven variables. Furthermore, it examined the impact of these variables on incident frequency and subsequent outcomes, including release and mortality. In raccoon dogs, rescue frequency was higher in autumn, in males and in juveniles, with incidents frequently occurring near buildings or involving parasitic infections. Causes of distress and triage were identified as key indicators when evaluating the release potential of rescued raccoon dogs. Additionally, the release potential was found to significantly decrease when they were rescued near roads or buildings or had experienced collisions with vehicles, highlighting urbanisation as a major threat to wildlife. This study provides guidance for the protection and management of raccoon dogs and supports the evaluation and improvement of wildlife rescue, treatment and rehabilitation efforts.
["collision with vehicle"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Rabies epidemiology and control", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies"]

Gasterocercus depressirostris depressirostris (Fabricius) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) – a new xylophagous pest of Quercus cerris L. and a new robber fly (Diptera, Asilidae) predator on it in Bulgaria
The insect pest complex of Turkey oak (Quercus cerris L.) was studied in the field protective forest belts planted on the territory of the State Forest Enterprise Dobrich in south Dobrudzha, north-eastern Bulgaria. Stem cuttings attacked by xylophagous insect pests were collected on 13 March 2025 in the land of Pobeda and Metodievo Villages. The samples were reared in photoeclectors at room temperature (18-22°C). During the period from 24 June to 24 July 2025, the oak weevil Gasterocercus depressirostris depressirostris (Fabricius, 1792) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) was reared for the first time from Quercus cerris L. in Bulgaria. Additionally, a new species for Bulgaria's asilid fauna, Pogonosoma minus Loew, 1869 (Diptera, Asilidae), was observed developing in the larval galleries of the pest. The trophic relationship between the predatory robber fly and the weevil prey was previously unknown and is recorded for the first time in this study.
["Turkey oak"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

A new species of Miraphaedusa Nordsieck, 2005 (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Clausiliidae) from Guizhou, China
The genus Miraphaedusa Nordsieck, 2005 is a group of medium to large clausiliid land snails endemic to Guangxi and Guizhou Provinces of China and consists of three species. It is characterised by a slender to fusiform shell with thick apical part, strongly doubled peristome and several short palatal plicae.A new species, Miraphaedusa xihuashida Chen sp. nov., is described from Tongren, Guizhou, China. It is characterised by the fusiform shell with 10.5–12.25 whorls and 24.7–27.5 mm shell height, thick, expanded, reflexed and strongly doubled peristome, weak inferior and subcolumellar lamella and short, lateral palatal plicae.
["land snail"]

Dung beetles of Azorean cattle-grazed pasturelands - data of the DUNGPOOL project
The data we present are part of the project DUNGPOOL, which aims to evaluate the effects of the species pool, community assembly processes and increasing temperatures on the local diversity and ecosystem functions performed by dung beetles in island and mainland cattle-grazed pasturelands. By combining replicated field experiments on the Iberian Peninsula with parallel work on three mid-Atlantic islands (Pico, Faial and Terceira, Azores), the project exploits the natural contrast between a species-rich mainland pool and the species-poor, largely exotic island pools, to test explicit biodiversity–ecosystem-function (BEF) hypotheses across spatial scales.From June to July 2024, dung beetles were sampled in 84 locations of the three islands of the Azores Archipelago (Portugal), using 306 pitfall traps baited with fresh cow dung.A total of 1,141 dung beetle individuals were recorded across these islands: 18 individuals in Pico Island, 480 individuals in Faial Island and 643 individuals in Terceira Island. These individuals were distributed amongst four species from the family Scarabaeidae (Insecta, Coleoptera): Calamosternus granarius (Linnaeus, 1767), Labarrus lividus (Olivier, 1789), Onthophagus taurus (Schreber, 1759) and Onthophagus medius (Kugelann, 1792). The species O. medius is a new record for this Archipelago and we propose that previous historical records of Onthophagus vacca (Linnaeus, 1767) should now be considered a regional synonym of Onthophagus medius.
["Azores Islands"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems"]

A new record of the genus Mollitrichosiphum Suenaga (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Greenideinae) from South Korea
The genus Mollitrichosiphum Suenaga belongs to the subfamily Greenideinae, with 18 species hav been recorded worldwide.The genus Mollitrichosiphum is a completely new record in South Korea. In 2024, Mollitrichosiphum (Metatrichosiphon) luchuanum (Takahashi, 1930) was collected on Meliosma myriantha located in Hawon-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea (33.19590, 126.28340). Illustrations of apterous viviparous females and alate viviparous females, description, measurement, host plants and distributions are provided. In addition, DNA barcoding, based on a mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequence and a mitochondiral cytochrome b (CytB) sequence are provided.
["Greenideini"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

Exploration of the distribution and host range of Phloeosinus deleoni Blackman (Curculionidae, Scolytinae) through collection records, field collections and modelling of potential distribution
Phloeosinus deleoni Blackman, 1942 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) is a bark beetle for which limited information exists regarding its ecology, distribution and host range. The objective of this study was to delimit its current distribution, identify confirmed host plants, explore possible additional hosts and model its potential distribution, based on the availability of known hosts. Records from scientific collections and field sampling were used to define its current distribution and Maxent in RStudio was applied to generate potential distribution models. New records were obtained in Durango, although the general distribution pattern remained congruent with previous knowledge. Juniperus flaccida and Juniperus deppeana were confirmed as primary hosts, with direct feeding observed on J. deppeana, expanding its known host range. While associations with other Juniperus species were considered, available data and distribution maps did not support this hypothesis. Environmental variables, particularly the temperature of the warmest month and annual precipitation, accounted for a substantial portion of the variation in ecological suitability. However, the presence of climatically suitable areas lacking records of occurrence indicates potential regions for colonisation. The absence of records in these areas is likely related to host ecology, as well as biological, dispersal and geographical constraints of P. deleoni. Potential distribution models indicated high environmental suitability in the biogeographic provinces of the Sierra Madre del Sur, Sierra Madre Oriental and the Transmexican Volcanic Belt. Overall, the results reinforce the hypothesis that P. deleoni is an oligophagous beetle, closely related to Juniperus species, with a host-use bias towards J. flaccida and is considered a native species restricted mainly to the central region of the Mexican Transition Zone.
["bark beetles"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Terrestrial Mollusca of Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam – Results from the 2019 VIETBIO inventory work
Cuc Phuong National Park is located along a range of limestone karst mountains in northern Vietnam and spans over an area of 222 km² mainly covered by tropical evergreen forest. While a number of works have focused on the park’s rich terrestrial mollusc fauna to date, the most extensive survey so far was carried out in 1998. In the present paper with its corresponding data package, we focus on the land snails and slugs recorded in the park during the VIETBIO inventory work between 29 April and 10 May 2019. Throughout this survey, live specimens and empty shells of terrestrial molluscs were collected at 34 sampling sites via visual search and additional soil sampling. Furthermore, we summarise the current knowledge on the park’s land molluscs.We present new data on the terrestrial mollusc fauna of Cuc Phuong National Park, which are linked to collection material stored at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin (dry shells, wet specimens, samples for long-term tissue preservation) and to a smaller part at the Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources, Ha Noi (dry shells). Our data package contains a Darwin Core Archive with respective collection data, and four further data sets with photos of sampling sites and live specimens. We provide soil pH values and information on the microhabitats where live specimens were collected. In addition, the paper includes photos of collection material, which were partly taken with a DORA station developed for the high-volume imaging of molluscan specimens. In total, 116 species and 1 additional subspecies of land snails and slugs from 23 families were recorded. From the (sub-)species found, we matched 70 with nominal species-group taxa, while 47 remained provisionally named, with most of the latter likely belonging to undescribed species. However, as the taxonomic identification was only based on shell morphology, external features of the soft body, and sampling locality, it should still be regarded as provisional. We collected a total of 2666 specimens, 1909 of them alive and 757 as empty shells. From all taxa recorded, ca. 26% were only found at one sampling site each and ca. 15% were represented only by a single individual, which indicates that many species are rare or unevenly distributed. Based on our survey and previous works, we compiled a comprehensive list of 159 species and 1 additional subspecies known from Cuc Phuong National Park, about one-third of them non-eupulmonates, which places the park amongst the most species-rich tropical forest regions known worldwide. A mark-recapture analysis, based on the 1998 collection and our survey, resulted in an estimate of 178 ± 7 species of shelled land molluscs present in the park. When adding further (semi-)slug species that were disregarded for this analysis, at least 184 ± 7 terrestrial mollusc species can be expected. The high overall number of species in the park probably results from a combined effect of allopatric, mosaic, and sympatric diversity.
["biodiversity discovery"]

Progression of saproxylic fungal communities in fine woody debris in boreal forests of Oulanka, Finland, assessed by DNA metabarcoding
This publication presents a dataset of saproxylic (dead wood) fungi which addresses the limited understanding of saproxylic fungal diversity, community structure and colonisation dynamics in fine woody debris (FWD). This knowledge gap is largely due to the microscopic or cryptic nature of most fungal species, which often exist primarily as mycelium. To overcome this challenge, the study employs metabarcoding of DNA extracted from pins representing FWD which were experimentally placed for decomposition in northern Finland. The dataset can be used to investigate the composition and progression of fungal communities across different stages of wood decay. It includes communities from distinct biotopes: one forest site protected from reindeer grazing, one exposed to reindeer and a forest area frequented by tourists. The use of standardised decomposition experiments combined with high-throughput eDNA analysis represents a notable methodological approach in characterising saproxylic fungal communities.The dataset was generated using the novel MycoPins method, published by the authors in 2023, in which sterilised wooden pins were embedded beneath the forest litter and left to decompose for one year, while being periodically inspected. This innovative decomposition experiment was conducted at the Oulanka Research Station in Kuusamo, Northern Finland. As the first study in this region to investigate saproxylic fungi in fine woody debris (FWD) using MycoPins and DNA metabarcoding, it adds new knowledge to the fungal biodiversity data of the region. The resulting dataset of DNA-derived occurrences has been published through the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), offering valuable insights into fungal diversity across different stages of decomposition. Agaricomycetes, a class of fungi strongly associated with their hosts via ectomycorrhiza, was selected from the dataset for comparison with fungal datasets from neighbouring regions. Remarkably, the MycoPins method revealed a high proportion of unique Agaricomycetes taxa not captured in existing species checklists from GBIF.org. These findings highlight the study's contribution to advancing biodiversity assessment. The results demonstrate the potential of this approach to enhance our understanding of fungal community dynamics in boreal forest ecosystems.
["MycoPins"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Enzyme-mediated dye degradation"]

New records of amphibians for Ha Nam Province, Vietnam
The Kim Bang Proposed Species and Habitat Conservation Area (SHCA) is located in Ha Nam Province, northern Vietnam. The terrain of the proposed SHCA is characterised by limestone karst formations and narrow valleys. However, the amphibia fauna of Kim Bang SHCA as well as of Ha Nam Province is poorly studied with only nine recorded species of amphibians from this Province so far.As a result of our field survey in April 2025, a total of 19 species of amphibians were recorded from Kim Bang SHCA. Ten of them are recorded for the first time from Ha Nam Province, comprising five species of Microhylidae (Microhyla butleri, M. heymonsi, M. mukhlesuri, M. pulchra and Micryletta hekouensis), one species of Dicroglossidae (Occidozyga lingnanica), two species of Ranidae (Hylarana annamitica, Rana johnsi) and two species of Rhacophoridae (Kurixalus bisacculus, Theloderma lateriticum). In addition, we provide morphological data and ecological notes of the aforementioned species.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A checklist of xyleborine ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini) on a single fallen chinquapin tree (Castanopsis inermis) from Thailand: with a new species and a new country record
The tribe Xyleborini comprises over 1,300 species of ambrosia beetles, all of which form mutualistic relationships with fungi. Several beetle species exhibit strong host preferences, particularly within the plant family Fagaceae for genera such as Castanopsis. This study documents the xyleborine beetles associated with Castanopsis inermis in Thailand to improve understanding of their host use and diversity.Twenty species of xyleborine ambrosia beetles were collected from a single fallen Castanopsis inermis tree. Amongst them, twelve species were recorded from C. inermis for the first time. One species, Arixyleborus perbrevis Sittichaya & Smith, sp. nov., is described as new to science, while Cnestus ater (Eggers 1923) is newly recorded from Thailand. Some biological observations on xyleborine ambrosia beetles are also presented.
["ambrosia beetles"]

Distribution and ecological preferences of Ovalona karelica (Stenroos, 1897) (Crustacea, Branchiopoda, Cladocera) in Volga River Basin (European Russia)
The distribution and ecological preferences of the rare water flea Ovalona karelica (Stenroos, 1897) (Crustacea, Branchiopoda, Cladocera) were analysed for the first time for European Russia. The species was found in different types of waterbodies, such as floodplain lakes of the Kerzhensky State Nature Biosphere Reserve, Nizhny Novgorod City and mouths of rivers inflowing into reservoirs. Ovalona karelica inhabits waters with wide ranges of pH, salinity, oxygen content and trophicity. Development of semi-submerged macrophytes (Stratiotes, Hydrocharis, Salvinia) is the main factor influencing occurrence of the species and its abundance.
["Cladocera"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Aquatic and Environmental Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Integrative method to detect invasive mealybug (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae) species on highways in Hungary: evidence for northward spread of Comstock mealybug
Climate change, coupled with the intensification of road transport and global trade, has contributed to a significant increase in the number of newly introduced scale insect species into new regions. Invasive alien pests represent a significant threat to agriculture and forestry, resulting in considerable economic losses globally. In this study, three potentially invasive mealybug species (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Pseudococcidae): Pseudococcus comstocki (Kuwana), Planococcus citri (Risso) and Planococcus ficus (Signoret) were monitored using a pheromone trap network along highways in Hungary during 2020–2021. Prior to this survey, none of these species had been detected under open-field conditions in Hungary. Specimens captured were identified through analysis of cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene fragments. The presence of Ps. comstocki was confirmed for the first time in outdoor environments at six localities in Hungary using both pheromone trapping and molecular techniques. It is currently the northernmost documented outdoor occurrence of Ps. comstocki in Europe. In contrast, Pl. citri and Pl. ficus were not detected in open-air conditions during the survey.
["invasive alien species"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Insights from the Dalberto Teixeira Pombo (DTP) Arthropod Collection – I. Revealing the Hidden Diversity of Terrestrial Cave Arthropods in the Azores
Hosted at the University of the Azores, the “Dalberto Teixeira Pombo” Collection (DTP) is an invaluable repository showcasing the diversity of arthropods from the Azores Archipelago, Portugal. This collection not only preserves a vital record of the region’s arthropological heritage but also underpins ongoing biodiversity research and conservation efforts. In this context, we are inaugurating a new series of Data Papers under the AZORES BIOTA Biodiversity Data Journal Collection. These papers will systematically document and analyze previously unidentified specimens derived from multiple past expeditions aimed at surveying and monitoring a range of habitats across the Azores Islands. By integrating historical collections with modern research methodologies, this initiative aspires to reveal previously hidden facets of the archipelago’s biodiversity and to inform future ecological, biogeographical and evolutionary studies, as well as conservation endeavours.This first manuscript targets the subterranean arthropod fauna. Collected primarily during intensive field expeditions between 1991 and 2010, subterranean samples from the archipelago’s diverse cave systems and mesovoid habitats form a vast assemblage of specimens — most of which remain unidentified — that illuminate the region’s hidden and understudied biodiversity. Notably, the only taxonomically resolved subset comprises the cave-adapted ground‐beetles of the genus Trechus, a group of paramount importance to the understanding of the evolution of Azorean subterranean adapted fauna.This study significantly contributes to addressing the Wallacean shortfall within the Azorean subterranean ecosystem by documenting novel range extensions for key endemic cave-adapted arthropods. Among the taxa recorded in previously uncharted locations are the centipede Lithobius obscurus azoreae Eason & Ashmole, 1992, the pseudoscorpion Pseudoblothrus vulcanus Mahnert, 1990, and several single-island endemic ground beetles of the genus Trechus, including Trechus terceiranus Machado, 1988 and Trechus picoensis Machado, 1988. These new distributional records enhance our understanding of species biogeography in the unique subterranean volcanic systems of the Azores and provide valuable insights into the connectivity and dispersal potential of troglobitic species in oceanic island settings.Furthermore, this research plays a crucial role in defining new priority areas for the conservation of Azorean cave-adapted arthropods. By refining knowledge on species distributions, it supports the development of targeted spatial conservation strategies aimed at mitigating habitat degradation and preserving the fragile subterranean biodiversity of the archipelago. The findings of this study contribute directly to future conservation planning, ensuring that appropriate protective measures are implemented to safeguard these highly specialized and often vulnerable cave ecosystems.
["Arthropoda"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Unveiling hidden molluscan diversity: New species records in Bougainville Bay, Strait of Magellan
The Chilean Fjords and Channels ecoregion presents unique oceanographic conditions that are sensitive to environmental impacts and socio-ecological systems. To assess how these impacts affect these ecosystems, it is essential to examine the current status of highly diverse taxa, such as molluscs, in terms of biodiversity and abundance, as they serve as valuable macroecological indicators of marine ecosystem health. On the south-eastern margin of the Brunswick Peninsula, south of Punta Santa Ana, lies Cape Froward, where a system of eight small bays (< ca. 4 km²) is located, some of which are used as temporary harbours during navigation. Despite previous sampling efforts and existing records, these areas remain poorly described, with the region around Punta Santa Ana Bay being the most extensively documented. As part of monitoring programmes on coastal biodiversity in Magallanes and fishery resource assessments, sublittoral sampling was conducted in Bougainville Bay using autonomous diving (20 m depth) and a modified Agassiz trawl (44 m depth). This study recorded 49 operational taxonomic units, comprising 32 gastropods, nine bivalves and eight polyplacophorans, all of which represent previously unpublished diversity records for this Bay. Additionally, these species were categorised, based on their feeding strategies, providing insights into their ecological roles. These findings also extend to neighbouring bays along the southern Brunswick Peninsula (from El Águila Bay to Cape Froward), where only two sublittoral species — the bivalves Zygochlamys patagonica and Philobrya sublaevis — had been previously documented. In the central micro-basin of the Strait of Magellan (from Second Narrows to Carlos III Island), this study introduces six new records: one bivalve and five gastropods, including two nudibranchs. All findings were compared with data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. These newly-documented records are crucial for understanding the biodiversity of molluscs inhabiting frequently navigated maritime areas, serving as indicators of anthropogenic impacts. This is especially relevant given the recent proposal of the area as a National Park.

Reproductive biology and conservation status of Leopoldia mira, Muscari sandrasicum and M. serpentinicum (Asparagaceae)
Leopoldia mira, Muscari sandrasicum and M. serpentinicum are endemic grape hyacinth species restricted to serpentinous and calcareous habitats in south-western Anatolia, Türkiye. Their pollination types, pollen and seed viability and primary pollinators were investigated through population observations, pollination experiments and various tests. A mixed pollination system was found to be predominant in L. mira and M. serpentinicum, whereas M. sandrasicum exhibited obligate xenogamy (outcrossing). Additionally, all species were observed to be entomophilous. New populations of L. mira and M. sandrasicum were discovered on Eşeler Mountain (Denizli, Türkiye). Their IUCN threat categories were re-assessed using the new data obtained in this study. The threat categories of L. mira and M. sandrasicum, previously classified as Endangered (EN), were retained, while M. serpentinicum should be reclassified as EN, based on criterion B2ab(ii,iii,iv,v)c(iii) due to its limited population size and increasing threats such as grazing, habitat degradation and climate change.
["IUCN"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Composition and distribution of frogs in Crocker Range Park, Sabah, Malaysia, with a description of a new Kalophrynus (Anura, Microhylidae) species
We monitored five localities within Crocker Range Park, one of the protected forests administered by Sabah Parks in the Malaysian part of Borneo. The sites selected were at various elevations: lowland sites at 260 m and 499 m a.s.l.; montane sites at 1,216 m, 1,260 m and 1,477 m a.s.l. Forty species were encountered in this study. New discoveries were also found during the course of our three-year period survey (October 2003–October 2006).The discoveries include amongst others, the Sabah endemics of Meristogenys, two new records for Sabah: Sarawakiphrys dringi (Inger, Stuebing and Tan, 1995), and Pelophryne rhopophilia Inger and Stuebing, 1996, as well as a new species, Kalophrynus minutus sp. nov., described herein. These findings provide evidence of many unknown species still waiting to be discovered. These discoveries also add significantly to our understanding of the distribution of frog species in Borneo as a whole, showing that species formerly thought to be very restricted geographically actually have much greater and more extensive distributions within Borneo.
["frogs"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Anopheline mosquitoes of north-western Russia (Diptera, Culicidae): updated distribution and morphological characters
Mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles were collected in the Republic of Karelia, St. Petersburg, Leningrad Region, Novgorod Region and Pskov Region (Russia) in order to clarify their distribution and genetic and morphological diversity. ITS2 sequence analysis of An. maculipennis s. l. (58 specimens) showed that they belonged to An. beklemishevi, An. messeae, An. daciae and An. maculipennis s. str. Taking into account our earlier data on An. claviger, this means that there are five Anopheles spp. in north-western Russia whose records are confirmed by molecular methods. We revealed An. daciae in Leningrad and Pskov Regions for the first time and confirmed its distribution in Karelia. Anopheles beklemishevi was found near the Arctic Circle in north-western Karelia. The study of morphology of the female heads of An. daciae, An. messeae and An. beklemishevi showed they may potentially be used for differentiation of these species.
["Anopheles maculipennis"]
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Malaria Research and Control", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

A new record of the genus Mesocrina Foerster and a newly-recorded species of genus Alloea Haliday (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) from Korea
The subfamily Alysiinae is a relatively large group within the family Braconidae, comprising more than 2,440 valid species worldwide. It is divided into two tribes, Alysiini and Dacnusini and is characteried by koinobiont endoparasitoidism of dipteran larvae. In South Korea, 286 species from 21 genera have been recorded to date. Despite this diversity, genus Mesocrina have not previously been reported from the Korean Peninsula. Mesocrina includes species are parasitoids of cyclorrhaphan Diptera inhabiting fungi, while Alloea species are known as parasitoids of Lonchoptera species. For the genus Alloea, only one species has been recorded in Korea. These genera can be distinguished by specific morphological traits, such as wing venation and shape of mandible.Mesocrina indagatrix Foerster, 1863 is recorded for the first time from Korea, and the genus is recorded new for Korea. In addition, Alloea veles Belokobylskij,1997 is recorded for the first time in Korea, which represents the first record of Alloea veles outside from Russia and the second record of Alloea from Korea. The barcode region of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) was also analyzed for the species. Also, we provide an identification key for the Alloea species recorded from Korea.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

Uncovering the genetic structure and evolutionary history of Acanthopagrus latus (Actinopterygii, Sparidae) using mitochondrial DNA and multivariate analyses: A case study of coastal populations in Central Vietnam
The yellowfin seabream (Acanthopagrus latus), a commercially important marine fish in Vietnam, faces threats from overfishing and habitat degradation and requires a deeper understanding of its genetic structure and evolutionary history for effective conservation. This study investigated the genetic diversity, population structure and demographic history of A. latus across three populations in Central Vietnam using mitochondrial control region (mtCR) sequences and multivariate analyses. A total of 125 fish samples were collected between January 2023 and June 2024, with DNA extracted from pectoral fin tissues and amplified for mtCR sequencing. Phylogenetic and haplotype network analyses revealed three main haplogroups with high genetic diversity (haplotype diversity: 0.993 ± 0.002), but minimal population differentiation (Fst = 0.00029, p = 0.39188), indicating significant gene flow, facilitated by coastal currents as these populations maintain strong genetic connectivity with the coastal populations of southern China. Neutrality tests, mismatch distribution and Bayesian Skyline Plots have suggested a historical population expansion followed by recent stability and slight decline. These findings highlight the species’ resilience, but underscore the need for regionally coordinated conservation strategies to protect critical habitats like estuaries and mangroves, ensuring the sustainability of A. latus populations in Vietnam.
["Central Vietnam"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Confirmed record of Boulenophrys binchuanensis (Anura, Megophryidae) from Jiulong County, Sichuan Province, China, with notes on tadpoles and advertisement calls
The horned frog population, previously identified as Boulenophrys minor from Jiulong County, Sichuan Province, China, was recently proposed to be B. binchuanensis, based on geographical inference, which remains unconfirmed by specimen examination.We revisited this population and confirmed its identification as Boulenophrys binchuanensis in Jiulong County using molecular data from 16S and CO1 genes, complemented by morphological diagnosis. Additionally, we described its tadpoles and advertisement calls, extending the known range and informing conservation efforts.
["biodiversity monitoring"]

The revision and phylogenetic position of Hippasa bifasciata Buchar, 1997 (Araneae, Lycosidae)
Hogna Simon, 1885 is the second-largest genus in the family Lycosidae after Pardosa C. L. Koch, 1847 (517 species), including 232 species so far. This genus has a cosmopolitan distribution spanning multiple continents. However, only four species (Hogna rubetra (Schenkel, 1963), Hogna trunca Yin, Bao & Zhang, 1996, Hogna jiafui Peng, Yin, Zhang & Kim, 1997 and Hogna arborea Lo, Wei & Cheng, 2023) have been recorded in China.A new combination, Hogna bifasciata (Buchar, 1997), comb. nov. (from Yunnan and Sichuan Provinces in south-western China), is proposed with both morphological and molecular evidence. Detailed morphological descriptions, photographs, scanning electron micrographs and a distribution map are provided. This species is distinguished from congeners by the unique structure of the female epigyne and its somatic pattern. Molecular phylogenetic analyses suggest H. bifasciata (Buchar, 1997) and all analysed Hogna species cluster together within the subfamily Lycosinae and the species is sister to the group, including Hogna frondicola Emerton, 1885, Hogna carolinensis Walckenaer, 1805 and Hogna crispipes L. Koch, 1877.
["new combination"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Agricultural pest management studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

First record of the male, new distribution and re-description of Indopadilla yordon (Araneae, Salticidae)
A total of seven known Indopadilla species are known from Vietnam: I. abramovi Logunov, 2024; I. annamita (Simon, 1903); I. cuc Wang, Li & Pham, 2023; I. phantoani Hoang & Zhang, 2023; I. retsivn Hoang, Phan & Vo, 2024; I. yokdon Hoang, Phan & Vo, 2024; and I. namkarensis Hoang, 2025. Amongst these, I. yokdon was previously known only from the female holotype collected in Yok Don National Park, Buon Don District, Dak Lak Province, Vietnam. In contrast, the remaining species were described, based on both male and female specimens. In the present study, the male of I. yokdon is described for the first time and the females are re-described, based on additional material collected from Dak Nong and Son La Provinces, Vietnam.Our surveys yielded records of three individuals of Indopadilla yokdon from two localities: one male and one female from Son La Province and one female from Dak Nong Province. This paper provides a first detailed description of the male and a re-description of the female. A morphological comparison between the sexes is also presented to support future taxonomic and phylogenetic studies. Additionally, the record from Son La Province extends the known distribution range of the species.
["new description"]

Anchusella cretica (Boraginaceae): a new genus and species record for the flora of Kosovo (Southeast Europe)
openalex
Anchusella cretica (Boraginaceae) is recorded for the first time in Kosovo and represents a new genus and species for the national flora. This range extension improves the knowledge about floristic and biogeographic patterns in the Western Balkans. Based on fieldwork in 2024–2025, four distinct populations were identified in dry, rocky, calcareous grasslands of the sub-Mediterranean region. The species shows a limited extent of occurrence (EOO = 80 km²) and area of occupancy (AOO = 5.54 km²) is limited. It is therefore assessed as Near Threatened (NT) at national level according to IUCN criteria. This finding emphasizes the importance of further botanical surveys and the conservation of underexplored lowland habitats in Kosovo.new records, flora, Boraginaceae, distribution, range extension, Balkans
["IUCN Red List", "Boraginaceae", "Threatened species", "Geography", "Occupancy", "Ecology", "Genus", "Range (aeronautics)", "Flora (microbiology)", "Habitat", "Conservation status", "Mediterranean climate", "Floristics", "Biology", "Taxon"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Re-surveying breeding forest bird communities in Western Oregon after 50 years: comparing 1968–1970 and 2020–2021
Accurate assessments of changes in breeding bird populations require regular, structured surveys or, alternatively, carefully documented benchmarks that can be precisely repeated. We re-surveyed a historic benchmark of forest bird communities in Western Oregon, USA, originally conducted by Stanley Anderson between 1968-1970. Anderson’s thesis uniquely preserves detailed plot locations, species density estimates, vegetation structure summaries and methodological descriptions — an uncommon level of documentation for the time. To facilitate accurate comparisons and future re-surveys, we explain how we aligned our methods with Anderson’s and incorporated modern bird counting techniques. We also provide our raw data, metadata and methodological details to ensure transparency and reproducibility.Anderson’s work presents unusually old and detailed datasets of forest bird communities preserved from the Pacific Northwest, USA. It provides a unique opportunity to examine long-term changes in breeding bird communities within these forested landscapes affected by anthropogenic influence. The data and methods presented here are well-documented, ensuring that this benchmark can be effectively used for precisely repeatable re-surveys and comparative studies.
["breeding bird communities"]
["Fire effects on ecosystems", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

A new species of Chalastonepsia Søli, 1996 (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) from Vietnam
The genus Chalastonepsia Søli, 1996 was erected for the species Chalastonepsia orientalis Søli, 1996 from Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia. The species C. hokkaidensis Kallweit, 1998 was described from Hokkaido, Japan. Ševčík and Hippa (2010) described two additional species of Chalastonepsia: C. nigricoxa Ševčík & Hippa, 2010 from Sumatra and Peninsular Malaysia and C. montana Ševčík & Hippa, 2010 from N.W. Thailand.A new Oriental species is described in the genus Chalastonepsia of the subfamily Gnoristinae – Chalastonepsia vumanhi Kazandzhieva sp. nov. from a single locality in Tam Dao National Park in northern Vietnam. The new species is closely related to C. hokkaidensis Kallweit, 1998, but differs from it by the number of long anterior projections on flagellomeres (1–9), the shape and size of T9, details on the gonostyli and their appendages. An identification key to the extant species of Chalastonepsia is provided. The taxonomy of the genus Chalastonepsia is shortly discussed in relation to the distinct morphology of the type species C. orientalis Søli, 1996.

New report of Calopodinae (Coleoptera, Oedemeridae) in South Korea, with description of a new species of the genus Sparedrus Dejean, 1821
Oedemeridae in Korea are represented by 25 species, all of which belong to the subfamily Oedemerinae Latreille, 1810. The other two subfamilies, Calopodinae Costa, 1852 and Polypriinae Lawrence, 2005, have not yet been documented in the region.We here report the first record of the subfamily Calopodinae in Korea with the discovery of Sparedrus koreanus sp. nov. This study provides external and genital photographs, a detailed description of the new species and a key to the Sparedrus species of East Asia.
["Oedemeridae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First record of the tropical aphid Schoutedenia ralumensis (Hemiptera, Aphididae) from Cambodia, with a re-description of the oviparous females and DNA barcoding
Schoutedenia Rübsaamen, 1905 (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Greenideinae) is a small aphid genus associated with woody Euphorbiaceae and Phyllanthaceae. Of its two recognised species, Schoutedenia ralumensis Rübsaamen, 1905 is widely distributed across Southeast Asia, India, Africa and along the eastern coast of Australia. Taxonomic difficulties arise from subtle morphological differences and an unusual life cycle in which all morphs may occur simultaneously. Moreover, the oviparous female remains inadequately described, limiting reliable identification and comparative analyses.Schoutedenia ralumensis is newly recorded from Cambodia on Phyllanthus sp. (Phyllanthaceae). The poorly-known morphology of oviparous females is re-described with live photographs, biometric measurements and photomicrographic illustrations. Additionally, DNA barcoding, based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase (COI) sequences, was performed on the Cambodian specimen and compared with available sequences, including one of S. emblica. Additionally, we propose the synonymisation of S. emblica under S. ralumensis as a conspecific variant. These findings expand the known distribution of S. ralumensis and contribute to a better understanding of aphid diversity in Cambodia.
["aphid"]

Contribution to the study of the Afrotropical Pyraustinae Meyrick, 1890 (Lepidoptera, Crambidae): Taxonomic and distributional updates on five species with new country records
The Pyraustinae Meyrick, 1890 form the fifth most diverse subfamily in the Pyraloidea, comprising 1270 described species distributed over 173 genera. For the Afrotropical zone, a total of 160 species have become known to date. Faunistic studies on the subfamily for the Afrotropical zone have been to date regionally confined on the southern parts of Africa, including South Africa, the Mascarene and Malagasy islands. The other parts of sub-Saharan Africa have remained understudied. This results in still unexplored distribution patterns of the Afrotropical Pyraustinae. The Afrotropical zone reaches its northern boundaries in the southern parts of the Arabian Peninsula which include the southern part of Oman (Province Dhofar), Yemen and the south-western parts of Saudi Arabia. For the Pyraustinae, the Arabian Peninsula has been little explored to date. No more than 20 species distributed over 13 genera have become known.Taxonomic and distributional updates are presented on five species of the Pyraustinae (Lepidoptera, Crambidae), based on material from East and Central Africa and from the tropical parts of the Arabian Peninsula. Ecpyrrhorrhoe diatoma (Hampson, 1913) and Psammotis haematidea (Hampson, 1913) are re-described, with the male and female genitalia described and figured for the first time. A new combination Paschiodes postmediofusalis (Seizmair, 2022) comb. n. from Pyrausta Hübner, 1825 is introduced, with the diagnostic characters differentiating the species from the other species of the Afrotropical genus Paschiodes Hampson, 1913 being listed. Psammotis haematidea (Hampson, 1913), Ecpyrrhorrhoe diatoma (Hampson, 1913) and Euclasta warreni Distant, 1892 are reported as new to the Arabian Peninsula. Psammotis haematidea (Hampson, 1913) is furthermore reported as new to Kenya and Cameroon. Paschiodes postmediofusalis (Seizmair, 2022) comb. n. and Euclasta varii Popescu-Gori & Constantinescu, 1973 are reported as new to Saudi Arabia. For each of the taxa presented, external and internal diagnostic characters are listed and illustrated.
["Pyraloidea"]

Description of a new species of Stueningeria Lehmann, 2019 (Lepidoptera, Cossoidea, Metarbelidae) from Kinmen Island of Taiwan
Before the present study, the family Metarbelidae in Taiwan was known for only one species, Marcopoloia discipuncta. During an investigation of the lepidopteran fauna of Kinmen island in 2022, a Stueningeria species that had never been reported by any of previous entomological studies on Kinmen was discovered.Based on the morphological characters distinct from other congeneric species, we determine the specimens from Kinmen as a species new to science. In addition, “Arbela dea" was often regarded as a timber pest in China and Taiwan. This species, however, has already been transferred to Marcopoloia and restricted to Myanmar. Another pest species, which has been misidentified as “Arbela baibarana” (a junior synonym of Marcolopoia discipuncta) in Chinese literature for long, is actually belonging to Stueningeria. We therefore consider the taxonomic identity of the Stueningeria in southern China needs to be clarified when sufficient specimens and molecular data become available.
["Metarbelidae"]

The first record of Brachycyrtinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) in Finland
Brachycyrtinae is a small, but distinctive subfamily of Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) with one widespead species in Europe: Brachycyrtus ornatus Kriechbaumer, 1880. We recently collected the species during the faunistic survey of the Urban Biodiversity Parks project in Skanssi, Turku, south-western Finland.We report the Darwin wasp Brachycyrtus ornatus as the first record of the subfamily for Finland. We collected a single female specimen with a Malaise trap in Skanssi Biodiversity Park during a period from August to September 2024. This is the northernmost record of B. ornatus and the subfamily Brachycyrtinae as a whole. Notes on the species' distribution and morphological variation are included.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies"]

Ichneumonidae species (Hymenoptera) new to Iraq recorded from Kurdistan
Ichneumonidae, a dominant and ecologically important family of parasitoids in the large insect order Hymenoptera, are poorly studied in Iraq, with only 18 previously recorded and identified species known so far. During a survey in Kurdistan, Iraq, numerous Ichneumonidae species were collected in July 2023 using a Malaise trap.Fourteen species of Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae are herein newly recorded for the fauna of Iraq: Phaenolobus hilalii Kolarov & Gürbüz, 2010; Lissonota deversor Gravenhorst, 1829; Alcima orbitale (Gravenhorst, 1829); Campoletis scyticus Riedel, 2017; Casinaria tenuiventris (Gravenhorst, 1829); Cryptus spinosus Gravenhorst, 1829; Perilissus dissimilator Aubert, 1987; Diadromus collaris (Gravenhorst, 1829); Clistopyga incitator (Fabricius, 1793); Itoplectis tunetana (Schmiedeknecht, 1914); Pimpla flavicoxis Thomson, 1877; Pimpla spuria Gravenhorst, 1829; Zaglyptus multicolor (Gravenhorst, 1829) and Zatypota bohemani (Holmgren, 1860). Recorded distributions are provided for all species, summarised for very widely distributed species.
["new records"]

New record of the genus Amblypalpus Mitrofanov & Strunkova (Acari, Prostigmata, Tenuipalpidae) with description of a new species from Saudi Arabia
Amblypalpus Mitrofanov & Strunkova (Prostigmata, Tenuipalpidae) is a small genus in the family Tenuipalpidae, representing five species reported from Iran, Tajikistan and South Africa. This study describes a new species of Amblypalpus, A. pisoniae sp. nov., reported from the south-western region (Jazan) of Saudi Arabia (SA).The genus Amblypalpus Mitrofanov & Strunkova is reported for the first time from SA, collected from Pisonia sp. (Nyctaginaceae) with a new species, A. pisoniae sp. nov. The new species is described and illustrated, based on females and males. Additionally, the diagnosis of the genus Amblypalpus is updated.
["diagnosis"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

First record of the spider genus Hellamalthonica Bosmans, 2023 (Araneae, Agelenidae) from Turkiye, with the description of a new species
The spider genus Hellamalthonica Bosmans, 2023 of the family Agelenidae currently contains five species and all species are known from Greece. This genus has not been recorded in Turkiye yet.A new species, Hellamalthonica kazdagensis sp. nov., is described (♂♀) from Mount Kaz Dağı, Balıkesir Province, Turkiye. This is also the first report of Hellamalthonica in Turkiye. Morphological descriptions, photomicroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images of the new species, a key to all species of the genus and a distribution map of Hellamalthonica species are given.
["Ageleninae"]

Morphological and phylogenetic evaluation of a new species of Rhodoveronaea (Rhamphoriaceae, Rhamphoriales) associated with Quercus fabrei (Fagales) in Yunnan Province, China
During an extensive mycological exploration of Fagales-associated mycoflora within the biodiverse landscapes of Yunnan Province, China, we discovered a new saprotrophic fungal species. Based on its unique morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS, SSU, tef1-α and rpb2 sequences, we established Rhodoveronaea querci as a new member of the genus Rhodoveronaea, which was collected from Quercus fabrei colonising terrestrial habitats.Rhodoveronaea querci is currently only known from its asexual form, which is a morphologically distinct hyphomycete fungus. The distinguishing characteristics of R. querci are straight or slightly flexuous, septate and unbranched conidiophores, terminally, integrated, apically protuberant, recurved conidiogenous cells with conspicuous conidiogenous loci and ellipsoidal to narrowly-obovoid, mostly 1-septate, slightly constricted at the central septum, guttulate, conidia with a flat basal scar. Rhodoveronaea querci and R. hainanensis are highly similar in the size and shape of their conidiophores and conidia, but they can be distinguished by other morphological characteristics and by genetic differences. Rhodoveronaea species are widely distributed in Europe and Asia and recent studies revealed several new Rhodoveronaea species from China.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Pelecotoides sinicus, a new species of ripiphorid beetle from east China (Ripiphoridae, Ptilophorinae)
The ripiphorid genus Pelecotoides Laporte, 1833 is distributed primarily throughout the Southern Hemisphere, with approximately 72 species. Although exhibiting robust species richness, only one Pelecotoides species, P. tokejii (Nomura & Nakane, 1959), has been recorded from Asia.Herein, Pelecotoides sinicus Jiang & Pan sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Zhejiang and Fujian, China, representing the second Asian species of Pelecotoides. This new species can be easily distinguished from P. tokejii by its sexually dimorphic antennae.
["wedge-shaped beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

New Crepidotus (Agaricales, Crepidotaceae) findings in China: Crepidotus cinereofuscus sp. nov. and record of C. stenocystis
Crepidotus is an essential group of saprotrophic fungi within ecosystems and exhibits a widespread global distribution. In China, approximately 80 species have been discovered, most of them being collected from humid monsoonal climate zones of China.In this paper, we report on several specimens of Crepidotus collected from the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, an arid area of China characterised by a continental climate. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses revealed two taxa: the first record for China of Crepidotus stenocystis Pouzar and a new species Crepidotus cinereofuscus sp. nov. C. stenocystis is a wood-inhabiting saprotrophic fungus, belonging to C. subg. Dochmiopus sect. Sphaeruli Hesler & Smith because of the presence of clamp connections and subglobose verrucose basidiospores. Phylogenetically, the Chinese sequence of C. stenocystis formed a strongly-supported clade with other reliable sequences. C. cinereofuscus is a soil-saprotrophic fungus, classified in C. subg. Dochmiopus sect. Autochthoni Consiglio & Setti because of its smooth basidiospores and clamp connections. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed that C. cinereofuscus is closely related to Crepidotus clavocystidiatus M.H. Han, Q. Na & Y.P. Ge, but it is clearly separated and formed a distinct clade. C. cinereofuscus is also different from C. clavocystidiatus in morphological characteristics. Detailed species descriptions, photographs and line drawings of these taxa are provided. This study enhances our understanding of Crepidotus diversity in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, raising the total number of Crepidotus species reported from this region to seven.
["Inocybaceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Re-description of Clubiona huaban (Araneae, Clubionidae), with the first description of the female
Clubiona huaban Xin, Zhang, Li, Zeng & Yu, 2020, one of the members of the Clubiona trivialis group, was described, based on two male types from Xiangzhigou Scenic Spot, Guyang City, Guizhou Province, China.Recently, new material of sac spiders has been collected from southwest China, including the type locality. The males were identified as C. huaban, based on comparison with the holotype. On the basis of the morphological characters and DNA barcoding, we credibly matched the females and males together as C. huaban. Therefore, C. huaban is re-described, based on new material and the female is described and illustrated for the first time.

Re-description of Balitora yingjiangensis (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Balitoridae) from the upper Irrawaddy River, south-western China
The genus Balitora Grey, 1830 (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Balitoridae) includes 20 species, with two known species distributed in the Salween River and one in the Irrawaddy River.A Balitora species from the Irrawaddy River, Balitora yingjiangensis, which was previously mistakenly classified as Hemimyzon, is re-described through examination of type specimens and collection of topotypic specimens from the Jieyanghe River, a tributary of the Irrawaddy River in Nabang Town, Yingjiang County, Yunnan Province, China. Balitora yingjiangensis differs from all congeners by the following combination of characters: one pair of maxillary barbels; short predorsal length, 43.48%-36.13% SL; slender caudal peduncle, length of caudal peduncle 3.71-4.47 times of depth; shallow caudal peduncle, height of which 4.14%-4.84% SL. Molecular phylogenetic analysis supports the validity of this species and suggests a wide distribution throughout the Chinese and Burmese Irrawaddy. Balitora burmanica is not distributed in the Irrawaddy River, previous records of which from Chinese literature are mistaken records of B. yingjiangensis.
["Balitoridae"]

First report of a Tailless Whip Scorpion in Cyprus: the case of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) (Amblypygi, Charontidae)
Amblypygi, commonly known as tailless whip scorpions or whip spiders, is an order of Arachnida noted for its cryptic habits and predominantly tropical and subtropical distribution. Although the group was first mentioned on the island of Cyprus in 1990, no specific taxonomic information was provided at the time.Through a combination of literature review, targeted field surveys and citizen-science contributions, we confirm the presence of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) in Cyprus, representing the first documented record of this species on the island. Following seven years of dedicated searches, a live specimen was collected in 2023 and identified, thereby establishing S. ioanniticus as part of the island’s rich fauna. This finding extends the known range of S. ioanniticus within the eastern Mediterranean and underscores the importance of integrating biodiversity research with public engagement to detect elusive or under-reported taxa. Future studies should investigate the species’ local distribution, ecological requirements and potential conservation concerns on Cyprus.
["Amblypygi"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

First record of Selenops ab Logunov & Jäger, 2015 (Araneae, Selenopidae) from China, with first description of the female
Selenops ab Logunov & Jäger, 2015 was originally described, based on a male specimen collected from Vietnam, with the female remaining unknown.Based on specimens collected from Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province, the female of Selenops ab Logunov & Jäger, 2015 is described for the first time. This species is newly recorded from China.
["new record"]

Investigation of protists in Momoge wetland (China) through metagenomic next-generation sequencing
The Momoge wetland plays an important role in maintaining the ecosphere and protist is an indispensable component of it. In order to reveal community structure and diversity of protists in Momoge wetland, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was performed. The main results are as follows: 1) A total of 224 species were identified, belonging to 17 phyla, 32 classes, 75 orders, 94 families and 146 genera. Among them, Bacillariophyta, Evosea, Oomycota, Rhodophyta, Ciliophora, Haptophyta, and Salpingoeca rosetta, Guillardia theta, Polarella glacialis, Cladocopium goreaui were the dominant phyla and species, respectively; 2) Most of them were species adapted to the saline-alkali environment, and the protists of Momoge wetland had higher diversity, fewer dominant species, and higher evenness than those of the harsher environment; 3) KEGG analysis showed that some protistan pathways were related to the saline-alkali environmental adaptation. This research is beneficial to ecological protection and provides valuable information for future studies.
["protist"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A new species of the genus Boulenophrys (Anura, Megophryidae) from Southwest China
The Asian horned toad subfamily Megophryinae (Bonaparte, 1850) currently comprises more than 140 species and is widely distributed in southern China, as well as in Tropical Asia from India and Bhutan to the Philippines. During amphibian surveys conducted at Mt.Daxue Nature Reserve on June 28-30, 2023, we collected specimens of within the genus Boulenophrys. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons, we describe this taxon as a new species from southwestern China.Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial DNA strongly support the new species as a sister species of B. jiangi. The uncorrected genetic distances between the 16S rRNA and COI genes between the new species and its closest congener were 9.3% and 8.1%, respectively. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) adult males have a moderate body size (SVL 37.1–40.6 mm), differing from B. jiangi in having longer hindlimbs when adpressed anteriorly—the tibiotarsal articulation reaches the mid-level of the eye when extended (vs. only reaching the area between the tympanum and the eye in B. jiangi); (2) vomerine ridge present and vomerine teeth absent; (3) tongue not notched behind; (4) a small horn-like tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; (5) tympanum distinctly visible, rounded; (6) toes lacking lateral fringes and webbing; (7) Distinct relative finger lengths: II < I < V < III in the new species (vs. I < II < V < III in B. jiangi); (8) heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; (9) tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level of the middle of the eye when leg is stretched forward; (10) an internal single subgular vocal sac in male; (11) dense nuptial spines on dorsal bases of fingers I and II in breeding adult males;(12) Eye diameter (ED) significantly smaller than that of B. jiangi (ED: 4.00±0.28 in the new species vs. 5.00±0.38 in B. jiangi, P < 0.05).
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Description of a new Rhizotrogus Latreille, 1825 (Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae), from the Island of Pantelleria (Sicily Channel, Italy)
Rhizotrogini comprises just over 45 taxa in Italy, some of which are endemic or subendemic. However, the elusive nature of several taxa, along with the uncertain taxonomic status of certain species, means that some species or populations within these taxa remain subjects of ongoing discussion and research.This contribution is devoted to the description of a new species of Rhizotrogus from the Island of Pantelleria (Sicily Channel, Italy), historically confused with Rhizotrogus pallidipennis Blanchard, 1851.
["Scarabaeidae", "Ecology", "Geography", "Fishery", "Zoology", "Oceanography", "Geology", "Biology"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Metashinobius gen. nov., the second Asian genus with uncleared subfamily placement of Trechaleidae (Araneae, Lycosoidea) from southwest China, with the description of a new species
Trechaleidae Simon, 1890 is a relatively small spider family comprising 17 genera and 136 species, most of which are distributed in South America and only one genus and three species are distributed in Asia; however, these have never been reported in southwest China.A new genus, Metashinobius gen. nov., is established, based on a new species from Guizhou Province, southwest China: Metashinobius hikariae sp. nov. (♂). This is the second Asian genus of Trechaleidae. Diagnosis, detailed descriptions, colour illustrations and distribution map of the new species are provided. The type specimen of the new species is deposited in the Centre for Behavioural Ecology and Evolution (CBEE), Hubei University, Wuhan, China.

New records and an updated checklist of the herpetofauna from Tay Yen Tu Nature Reserve, north-eastern Vietnam
The Tay Yen Tu Nature Reserve is situated on the western side of the Yen Tu Mountain Range in Bac Giang Province, northern Vietnam. Since its establishment in 2002, several studies on the herpetofauna of this protected area have been carried out. For example, Nguyen et al. reported 25 species of snakes in 2002 and most recently, Hecht et al. reported 36 species of amphibians and 40 species of reptiles in the Nature Reserve in 2013. Remarkably, two new species of amphibians and two new species of reptiles have been discovered from Tay Yen Tu Nature Reserve since 2005.As a result of our fieldwork in Tay Yen Tu Nature Reserve between 2015 and 2025, we recorded four species of amphibians and three species of reptiles for the first time from Bac Giang Province, comprising two species of Leptobrachella, one species of Kaloula, one species of Hylarana, one species of Takydromus, one species of Sinomicrurus and one species of Xenopeltis. We herein provide morphological data as well as ecological notes of the aforementioned species. In addition, we provide an updated list of 44 amphibian species and 49 reptile species recorded from Tay Yen Tu Nature Reserve.
["amphibians"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Integrating plot-based methods for monitoring biodiversity in island habitats under the scope of BIODIVERSA + project BioMonI: Tree monitoring in Terceira, Tenerife and Réunion Islands
Oceanic islands are globally recognised for their exceptional levels of biodiversity and endemism, often resulting from unique evolutionary processes in isolated environments. However, this biodiversity is also disproportionately threatened by anthropogenic pressures including habitat loss, invasive species and climate change. Targeted, long-term biodiversity monitoring is essential for detecting changes in these vulnerable ecosystems and providing information for conservation strategies.The EU BIODIVERSA + project BioMonI aims at building a global long-term monitoring network specifically tailored to the pressing needs of biodiversity conservation and monitoring on islands. In BioMonI, we use a novel approach that considers mapping previous and current monitoring schemes on islands, developing a harmonised monitoring scheme for island biodiversity and mobilising existing monitoring data. We are assembling data from BioMonI-Plot, a long-term vegetation plot network to understand biodiversity and ecosystem change. It will use baseline data from three focal archipelagos (Azores, Canary Islands and Mascarenes), but we aim to mobilise data from archipelagos worldwide.Plot-based data are a cornerstone of effective biodiversity monitoring on islands. These standardised data collections within permanent plots allow for consistent, replicable observations across temporal and spatial scales. Initiatives like the Global Island Monitoring Scheme (GIMS) highlight the value of permanent plots in capturing ecological gradients and anthropogenic disturbance patterns. Such data underpin the detection of subtle shifts in community composition, functional diversity and species distributions, which are critical for assessing the effectiveness of conservation actions and predicting future ecological scenarios.In summary, plot-based data are indispensable for targeted and effective biodiversity monitoring on islands. They provide the empirical backbone necessary to provide information for adaptive management strategies and contribute to global biodiversity targets.The BioMonI-Plot baseline data consist of 10 plots in each of the following islands: Terceira (Azores), Tenerife (Canaries) and Réunion Island (Mascarenes). As a first step, we describe the diversity and abundance of all woody species shoots with a diameter at breast height (DBH) = 1 cm in each of the 10 plots of each Island. The majority of taxa belonged to the phylum Magnoliophyta, which accounted for 96.66% of the total species and subspecies, followed by Pteridophyta (2.22%) and Pinophyta (1.11%). Réunion Island exhibited the highest species richness, with 66 identified taxa, followed by Tenerife (16 taxa) and Terceira (11 taxa). Only one species, Morella faya, was shared between the islands, occurring in both Terceira and Tenerife. Most of the recorded species were classified as endemic according to their colonisation status. Specifically, 32 species were endemic to the Mascarene Islands, 22 to Réunion, nine to the Azores, eleven to Macaronesia and four to the Canary Islands.The data presented in this Data Paper provide a valuable proxy for evaluating the ecological integrity and overall habitat quality of native montane forests across three oceanic archipelagos: the Azores, Canary Islands and Mascarene Islands. By focusing on tree species as primary ecological indicators, the dataset offers insights into essential structural and compositional attributes of these ecosystems, including species richness, relative abundance and patterns of dominance.The comprehensive species-level information contained in this dataset allows for comparisons of forest composition across islands and biogeographic regions, contributing to our understanding of insular forest dynamics, endemism patterns and conservation priorities in tropical and subtropical montane environments.
["local plot-based monitoring"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

First record of Jerzego Maddison, 2014, with description of a new species from China (Araneae, Salticidae)
Jerzego Maddison, 2014, the only recorded Asian genus of the subfamily Hisponinae Simon, 1901, is represented by four tree bark dwellers restricted to Malaysia, India, Indonesia and Sri Lanka.A new jumping spider, Jerzego qiuhangi sp. nov. is described, based on both sexes from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China. Diagnostic photos of the habitus and copulatory organs and a distributional map are provided.
["Hisponinae"]

A new species of Nigorella Wesołowska & Tomasiewicz, 2008 (Araneae, Salticidae, Salticinae, Plexippini) from Guangxi, China
The genus Nigorella Wesołowska & Tomasiewicz, 2008 currently contains nine species, four of which are found in Africa and five in Asia (four in China and one in Thailand). The four Chinese species and their distribution in China are as follows: Nigorella hirticeps (Song & Chai, 1992), in Hunan and Hubei; N. mengla Lin & Li, 2020, in Yunnan; N. orientalis (Song & Chai, 1992), in Hubei, Sichuan and Guizhou; and N. sichuanensis (Peng, Xie & Kim, 1993), in Sichuan.A new species of Nigorella is described, based on both sexes (two male and four female specimens) from the Huaping National Nature Reserve, Guangxi, China: Nigorella huaping Liu & Zhang, sp. nov.
["Evarcha"]

The first report of Haplomitrium gibbsiae (Steph.) R.M. Schust. (Haplomitriaceae) from Guangxi, China
The liverwort genus Haplomitrium, first described by Nees in 1833, is the basal sister group to all other liverworts. It exhibits distinctive traits, including upright shoots, radial leaf arrangement, abundant mucilage and the absence of rhizoids, reflecting its non-vascular nature. Predominantly found in the Southern Hemisphere, specifically Australasia, the genus comprises seven species and two infraspecific taxon globally, with China recording three species — H. blumei, H. mnioides and H. hookeri. These features and its distribution underscore its significance in studying early terrestrial flora.The liverwort species Haplomitrium gibbsiae (Steph.) R.M. Schust., previously considered endemic to Gondwanan regions, has been documented in East Asia for the first time during a floristic survey in the Jiuwanshan National Nature Reserve, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. This discovery expands the known range of the species and, when combined with prior hypotheses, suggests a potential dispersal pathway: following the fragmentation of Gondwana, H. gibbsiae may have spread to India and South America and subsequently from India to East Asia via the Himalayas, resulting in its present-day global distribution. Additionally, based on extensive literature review, the present study discusses the species’ retention of primitive traits and considers its potential as a candidate for future research, aimed at deepening our understanding of early land plant evolution.
["liverworts"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A new species of the genus Afissa Dieke, 1947 (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from China
Recent morphological and molecular studies have clarified some aspects of the taxonomy of Afissa Dieke, 1947, but many species remain unexamined or misclassified. Additional taxonomic work is essential to resolve the classification and distribution of Afissa species in Asia, particularly in China.Afissa xuexii sp. nov. is described from Yunan and Guizhou Province, China. This new species is characteried by its typical bifurcated penis guide. Diagnosis, description and illustrations are provided.
["Ladybird"]

Updated hoverfly (Diptera, Syrphidae) checklist of the Foreste Casentinesi National Park (Italy)
The present faunistic note is an updating of Syrphidae (Diptera) fauna of “Foreste Casentinesi National Park” (Emilia-Romagna and Toscana, Italy), a site of conservation interest included as a focus site within the “National Biodiversity Future Center”, NBFC. The revision combines data from the entomological collection Guido Grandi (UNIBO) and recent records from the national pollinator monitoring programme (Italy).The new recordings for the National Park, obtained by Malaise traps and entomological net, comprise 25 Syrphidae species, including also new recordings for Toscana and Emilia-Romagna Regions. The updated Syrphidae fauna of the Park includes now 116 species, three of which are included within threatened categories in the Red List of European Syrphidae. A typically Alpine fauna is emerging from the Syrphidae species recorded of this revision.
["Syrphidae (Diptera)"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Species assemblages of aquatic and semi-aquatic true bugs (Hemiptera, Heteroptera) of anthropogenic ponds of the green zone in Bangkok, Thailand
Aquatic and semi-aquatic true bugs (Hemiptera, Heteroptera) are highly abundant in both lentic and lotic systems in Thailand. More than 230 species representing 12 families of these insects have been reported from freshwater habitats in Thailand. The Thai fauna has been studied intensively in the last several decades, but no research focuses on the species assemblages of aquatic and semi-aquatic true bugs in urban areas. Two important discoveries were found in this study: the species assemblages of aquatic and semi-aquatic true bugs of ponds in the green zones of Bangkok and their association with margin type (natural vs. artificial).The complete taxonomic list of aquatic and semi-aquatic true bugs from 28 ponds in the green zones is presented. Twenty species representing 16 genera, 12 families and two infraorders are reported in this study. More specially, nine species, seven genera and four families of Gerromorpha and eleven species, eight genera and seven families of Nepomorpha were collected. Although the number species of this research accounts for only 9% of the Thai fauna, the study area represented less than 0.01% of total land area in Thailand. Overall, Cluster Analysis and Principal Component Analysis showed species compositional dissimilarities between ponds with natural margins and ponds with artificial margins. In general, species richness, especially members of Nepomorpha in ponds with natural margins, is higher than those in ponds with artificial margins. This finding is valuable for aquatic system management to promote a higher diversity of aquatic insects in the green zones of urban areas in Thailand.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Redescription of Mesoschendyla javanica (Attems, 1907) and its first records from Borneo (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha, Schendylidae)
The geophilomorph Mesoschendyla javanica (Attems, 1907) was originally described from a small number of males collected from bat guano in Tjompea (Ciampea), Java. Subsequently, no additional material was identified. The type series remained the only specimens belonging to this genus known from Asia.Mesoschendyla javanica is re-discovered 118 years after its original description amongst centipedes collected from soil cores taken during the 1977–1978 Royal Geographical Society Gunung Mulu Expedition to Sarawak (Borneo, East Malaysia) and is deposited in the collection of the Natural History Museum (London). The new material comprising 49 specimens, amongst which are the first known females, is described and illustrated, shedding light on intraspecific morphological variation. The syntypes and sole previously available specimens are redescribed and illustrated, completing the summary original description of the species. Ecological and biogeographical notes are provided for Sarawak specimens.
["centipede"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Defoliation in mangrove saplings vary depending on species and environment
As mangrove ecosystems are rapidly being degraded worldwide, it is essential to understand how we can protect them. Defoliation of mangrove saplings can negatively affect mangrove ecosystems’ health and resilience, and its effects can be further exacerbated and accelerated by habitat disturbances such as climate change and urban development. We examined the levels of defoliation across four different species of mangrove saplings—Bruguiera cylindrica, B. gymnorhiza, Rhizophora apiculata and R. mucronate across ten sites on Pulau Ubin, Singapore. We found that different species of mangrove saplings suffered different rates of defoliation, and this could be because of interaction effects from proximity to roads, river mouth and past site use for aquaculture.
["mangrove saplings"]
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Agricultural and Environmental Management"]

Gnaphalieae (Asteraceae): diversity and distribution in Rio de Janeiro – Brazil
As an area of great diversity and suffering from many threats, the Brazilian Mata Atlântica and its floristic zones, such as Restingas, Rock Outcrops and Grasslands, call for attention and recurrent studies on plant diversity as a means of helping conservation efforts. In this context, acquiring, curating and using herbaria data is crucial to filling gaps in plant distribution and biogeography, as well as confirming or denying species incidence in the area of interest. This study provides a solid dataset with information regarding diversity and distribution of species from the tribe Gnaphalieae (Asteraceae) in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with significant updates since the publication of Flora Fluminensis by Vellozo almost 200 years ago, the Rio de Janeiro checklist one decade ago and the milestone of the Flora e Funga do Brasil continuously updated dynamic dataset.We recorded 31 species of Gnaphalieae (Cass.) Lecoq. & Juill. for Rio de Janeiro State of which nine are newly recorded in the area and five are refuted occurrences, compared to the listing in Flora e Funga do Brasil 2023. In our compilation, we confirmed the occurrence of eight genera in the State flora: Achyrocline (Less.) DC., Chevreulia Cass., Chionolaena DC., Facelis Cass., Gamochaeta Wedd., Gnaphalium L., Lucilia Cass. and Pseudognaphalium Kirp. Moreover, we compared the cost-benefit on using municipality centroids versus original/curated coordinates on 5 km2 quadrants. We found that, on this geographical scale, there is no significant difference between the two methods. We advocate for using the less time-consuming centroids, which are less prone to human error, for expediting presence/absence checklist data curation and if the main goals are to quantify records, map species richness and evaluate sampling effort. Nevertheless, precise coordinates are essential for ecological niche modelling, conservation assessments and other data usage, focusing on habitat level mapping.
["Atlantic Rainforest"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Vertical distribution of arthropod assemblages in native and exotic forests of Terceira Island (Azores, Portugal)
In the summer of 2024, a study was conducted on Terceira Island in the Azores Archipelago, Portugal, aiming to characterise the vertical diversity and spatial distribution patterns of arthropods within native and exotic forest ecosystems. This study forms part of a broader research initiative designed to investigate how alterations in habitat structure influence the complexity and stability of arthropod food webs in Azorean forest habitats. By systematically sampling arthropods across multiple vertical strata —from forest floor to canopy the study aimed to generate detailed insights into the ecological dynamics governing biodiversity patterns and species interactions. Results from this monitoring will contribute significantly to understanding the ecological impacts of forest composition and management strategies, ultimately providing information for conservation planning and habitat restoration efforts aimed at preserving arthropod diversity and ecological resilience in island ecosystems.The current dataset comprises identified terrestrial arthropods collected using SLAM (Sea, Land and Air Malaise) traps and Pitfall traps across diverse forest strata. A total of 32,797 specimens were collected from the Arachnida, Diplopoda, Chilopoda and Insecta classes. A total of 18,372 (56%) were identified at the species or subspecies level, including 12,745 adults and 5,627 juveniles for taxa, such as Araneae and Hemiptera due to the availability of reliable identification methods. The resulting dataset encompasses 150 species and 11 subspecies, distributed across 21 orders, 81 families and 148 genera.Hemiptera emerged as the most abundant identified order, with a total of 7,697 recorded specimens and Coleoptera stood as the most taxonomically diverse, encompassing 19 distinct families and 50 species and sub-species. The ten most abundant species comprise predominantly endemic and native non-endemic species, with two exotic species detected amongst them.This comprehensive dataset serves as a significant augmentation of the existing baseline knowledge concerning the diversity of Azorean arthropods, thereby facilitating the formulation of future long-term ecological comparisons. It offers valuable insights into the vertical distribution of species abundance within both native and exotic forests of the Azores.
["occurrence"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Ants from the tropical dry forest in the Cauca River geographic valley, Colombia: new records and expansion of distributions
Tropical dry forests (TDF) are amongst the most important tropical biomes globally, recognised for their remarkable biodiversity. This biome features a favourable climate and high soil fertility, which has facilitated the development and expansion of human societies. However, continuous and extensive human intervention has led to habitat loss and fragmentation, disrupting the assemblages of biological communities. Within these communities, ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) represent one of the predominant groups and their high sensitivity to habitat transformation makes them a useful model for monitoring the effects of land-use changes and assessing ecosystem quality. The objective of this research was to compare ant diversity between two habitat types, tropical dry forest fragments and the surrounding matrices in the Cauca River Valley region. Ants were collected from 2021 to 2022 using six collection methods: arboreal baiting, epigeal baiting, hypogeal baiting, pitfall traps, mini-Winkler extractors and manual capture. A substantial portion of the data generated from this research is available in two datasets associated with two Colombian entomological collections. The first dataset (1574 ant records) is housed at the Centro de Colecciones Biológicas de la Universidad de Magdalena (CBUMAG) and the second (546 records) at the Museo de Entomología de la Universidad del Valle (MUSENUV).Five ant species were registered for the first time in Colombia: Leptogenys montuosa Lattke, 2011, Neoponera rugosula Emery, 1902, Neoponera zuparkoi Mackay & Mackay, 2010, Pheidole traini Wilson, 2003 and Wasmannia sulcaticeps Emery, 1894. Additionally, the distributions of 45 ant species native to two Departments in the Cauca River Valley geographic region (VGRC) have been expanded. Of these, 31 species extended their distribution into the Valle del Cauca Department: Azteca alfari Emery, 1893, Forelius damiani Guerrero & Fernández, 2008, Eciton mexicanum Roger, 1863, Neivamyrmex emersoni (Wheeler, 1921), Holcoponera moelleri Forel, 1912, Brachymyrmex musculus Forel, 1899, Cephalotes porrasi (Wheeler, 1942), Cephalotes targionii (Emery, 1894), Cephalotes umbraculatus (Fabricius, 1804), Crematogaster montezumia Smith, 1858, Crematogaster obscurata Emery, 1895, Nesomyrmex pittieri (Forel, 1899), Octostruma batesi (Emery, 1894), Octostruma excertirugis Longino, 2013, Octostruma obtusidens Longino, 2013, Pheidole bilimeki Mayr, 1870, Pheidole boliviana Wilson, 2003, Pheidole colobopsis Mann, 1916, Pheidole gauthieri Forel, 1901, Pheidole hasticeps Wilson, 2003, Pheidole simonsi Wilson, 2003, Pheidole subarmata Mayr, 1884, Pheidole vallifica Forel, 1901, Solenopsis azteca Forel, 1893, Solenopsis brevicornis Emery, 1888, Strumigenys grytava (Bolton, 2000), Strumigenys marginiventris Santschi, 1931, Strumigenys wheeleriana Baroni Urbani, 2007, Temnothorax subditivus (Wheeler, 1903), Hypoponera opacior (Forel, 1893), Leptogenys pubiceps Emery, 1890 and Pseudomyrmex longior (Forel, 1904). Ten species extended their distribution into the Cauca Department: Azteca velox Forel, 1899, Brachymyrmex minutus Forel, 1893, Crematogaster evallans Forel, 1907, Megalomyrmex drifti Kempf, 1961, Pheidole fimbriata Roger, 1863, Pheidole longiscapa Forel, 1901, Pheidole radoszkowskii Mayr, 1884 and Rogeria scandens (Mann, 1922); and four species extended their distribution into both Departments: Brachymyrmex cordemoyi Forel, 1895, Pheidole sculptior Forel, 1893, Hypoponera fiebrigi antoniensis (Forel, 1912) and Hypoponera parva (Forel, 1909). Finally, three exotic species were registered for the first time in the VGRC, extending their distributions within Colombia: Strumigenys emmae (Emery, 1890) in the Valle del Cauca Department and Cardiocondyla emeryi Forel, 1881 and Cardiocondyla wroughtonii (Forel, 1890) in the Cauca Department.

A new species of Neoantistea Gertsch, 1934 from Yintiaoling National Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China (Araneae, Hahniidae)
Hahniidae is a family of spiders with 239 species belonging to 29 genera, of which 45 species belong to 9 genera was recorded in China.A new species of the genus Neoantistea Gertsch, 1934 is described from Yintiaoling Nature Reserve: N. yintiaoling sp. nov. (♂). Morphological descriptions, photos and illustrations of copulatory organs are provided. Photos of N. quelpartensis Paik, 1958 are also presented in order to compare it with new species.
["classification"]

The genus Boletopsis (Bankeraceae, Thelephorales) in China
Boletopsis is a genus of the family Bankeraceae with eight accepted species in the world. Species in the genus are ectomycorrhizal fungi and edible. In this study, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis of this genus, based on ITS and nrLSU sequences, using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference, along with morphological observations in the field and under microscopies. Three species of Boletopsis from China were described and illustrated, including two known species, viz., B. macrocarpa and B. tibetana and one new species, namely B. longipes. A global key to the genus is also provided.The new species can be distinguished from other species of Boletopsis by its pastel brown pileus when mature, slender stipes measuring 5–13 × 2–3 cm, large basidia, measuring 15–36 × 7–15 μm, solitary or gregarious in mixed forests dominated by trees of the families Pinaceae and Fagaceae at a relatively low altitude about 1000–2600 m. Line drawings of microstructures, colour pictures of fresh basidiomata and detailed descriptions of the new and two known Boletopsis species from China are provided. In addition, a key to the accepted species of the genus worldwide is provided.
["edible mushroom"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Unveiling hidden diversity: new records of Chaitophorus (Hemiptera, Aphididae) in Korea from historical specimens
The aphid genus Chaitophorus Koch, 1854 (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Chaitophorinae) has been studied in Korea from historical specimens.Korean Chaitophorus aphids have been confirmed, including four new records: C. horii Takahashi, 1939; C. leucomelas Koch, 1854; C. salijaponicus Essig and Kuwana, 1918; and C. tremulae Koch, 1854. These four newly-recorded species are described with biometric measurements and illustrations. A modified taxonomic key for Korean Chaitophorus spp. is presented.
["aphids"]

Free-living clinging flatworms (Rhabditophora, Polycladida) associated with Sargassum from the Caribbean Coast of Colombia
Polyclads are a diverse group of marine free-living flatworms, with some species adapted to life in floating Sargassum mats. Recent studies suggest that, rather than being inherently pelagic, these flatworms should be classified as "clinging fauna", as they rely on floating substrates for habitat.This study documents, for the first time, the occurrence of Gnesioceros sargassicola and Chatziplana grubei in Sargassum along the Caribbean coast of Colombia. High-definition photographs of whole mounts and histological sections are provided for both species, along with detailed observations of their reproductive structures and 28S rDNA barcodes. These findings underscore the importance of exploring the fauna associated with Sargassum, contributing to a better understanding of polyclad distribution and raising the number of recorded species for Colombia to 26.
["Corales de Profundidad National Natural Park"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

New provincial records of the genus Limnonectes (Amphibia, Anura, Dicroglossidae) from South Central, Vietnam
Limnonectes is one of the poorly-known genera of amphibians in Vietnam. In the herpetofaunal list of Vietnam in 2009, only five species of the genus Limnonectes were recorded from the country. Recently, four new species (L. nguyenorum, L. quangninhensis, L. kiziriani and L. phuyenensis) and three new country records (L. gyldenstolpei, L. fastigatus and L. kohchangae) were reported from Vietnam.Based on recent field-work in South Central of Vietnam, we report four new provincial records of the genus Limnonectes from Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, Binh Thuan and Gia Lai Provinces, namely L. dabanus, L. fastigatus, L. limborgi and L. phuyenensis. In addition, morphological data and ecological notes of the aforementioned species are provided.

New record and diet of the endangered Mau Son Spiny Frog (Quasipaa acanthophora Dubois and Ohler, 2009) in Vietnam
The Mau Son Spiny Frog Quasipaa acanthophora was originally described from Mau Son Mountain, Lang Son Province in 2009 and subsequently recorded in Bac Giang and Quang Ninh Provinces of Vietnam. The species was listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List 2017 and as Endangered in the Vietnam Red Data Book 2024. However, knowledge about diet ecology of the species is virtually lacking.Based on recent fieldwork in northern Vietnam, we herein report a new population of Quasipaa acanthophora from Dong Son–Ky Thuong Nature Reserve in Quang Ninh Province. In addition, we provide data on the diet of Q. acanthophora, based on stomach content analyses of 38 individuals (10 males, 17 females, 11 subadults). A total of 27 prey categories containing 446 items were found in the stomachs of Q. acanthophora. The dominant prey items of the species were Blattodea, Coleoptera (Other Coleoptera), Orthoptera (Gryllidae), Decapoda and Hymenoptera (Formicidae). The most important (IRI) groups amongst the prey of Q. acanthophora were Blattidae (32.67%), followed by Gryllidae (9.11%), other Coleoptera (6.57%), Decapoda (5.72%) and Formicidae (5.61%).
["Dong Son\u2013Ky Thuong Nature Reserve"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Alpha diversity with increasing altitude and Rapoport’s rule adherence: Elevational trends in Noctuoidea (Lepidoptera) of Mizoram, India
An assessment of the alpha diversity across the altitudinal range sizes for the moths of Noctuoidea (Lepidoptera) collected from 25 locations in Mizoram, a biodiversity hotspot in India, was undertaken. A total of 164 moth specimens were examined. based on morphological and genitalia characteristics for their identity. Identified specimens belonged to 42 species and 34 genera of three families Erebidae, Noctuidae and Nolidae. The results showed that the alpha diversity of Noctuoidea moths was the highest at the lower middle altitude range (400-800 m), while the least was at the lower elevation range (0-400 m). In contrast, the species’ ranges increased with rising altitude. Steven’s (R = 0.903, p < 0.001), Pagel’s (R² = 0.873, p < 0.06), Rohde’s (R² = 0.961, p < 0.001) and cross-species (R² = 0.013, p < 0.6) methods were used to test Rapoport’s rule. They yielded three positive results with the cross-species method being negative due to outliers in the species distribution. Rapoport’s rule applicability for moths in the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot was evaluated for the first time. These findings are vital in explaining the elevational diversity patterns of noctuoid moths in northeast India and Indo-Myanmar, leading to a better understanding of the region's biogeography.
["alpha diversity"]

Amphibian and reptile dataset across different land-use types in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa
West Africa is exceptionally biodiverse, yet its wildlife remains largely understudied despite the rapid and ongoing land-use changes. Large swaths of Guinea-Bissau’s landscape were historically characterised by native forest-savannah mosaics. However, key areas of savannah habitats have been converted to rice agroecosystems and forests are being transformed into cashew monocultures at unprecedented rates. Amphibians and reptiles comprise some of the most threatened species by human-induced habitat change and yet are not as studied as other vertebrate terrestrial taxa. Here, we provide two comprehensive datasets on amphibians and reptiles (classes Testudines and Squamata) from northern Guinea-Bissau: (1) a standardised survey dataset (encompassing sampling events and occurrences) in forest fragments, cashew orchards and rice paddies and (2) an opportunistic dataset reporting occurrences across the entire study area. Standardised surveys were carried across 21 sampling sites, seven in each habitat type, while opportunistic surveys include all other records. For standardised surveys, a total of 703 amphibian and 265 reptile (class Squamata) encounters are reported, corresponding to nine and 13 taxa, respectively. Opportunistically, we report 62 amphibian and 93 reptile encounters, corresponding to 10 amphibian taxa, 25 Squamata taxa and two turtles (class Testudines).Based on 126 sampling hours of both diurnal and nocturnal standardised surveys, in addition to opportunistic surveys, these datasets comprise the first overview for amphibians and reptiles in mainland Guinea-Bissau across two seasons and different habitat types. Each of the 968 standardised and 155 opportunistic occurrences corresponds to a genus or species and is accompanied by geographic coordinates, a timestamp and, for standardised data, the land-use type. The datasets fill the distribution gaps in Guinea-Bissau of at least three species, including the frog Hildebrandtia ornata, the skink Trachylepis keroanensis and the snake Dendroaspis polylepis – and include the re-discovery of the lizard Latastia ornata in Guinea-Bissau. Before this work, the L. ornata was only known from the 1938 holotype in Bafatá (ca. 60 km away from the study area) and, in 2023, from Guinea-Conakry (ca. 700 km away from the type specimen location).
["agroecosystems"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

New records of stoneflies (Insecta, Plecoptera) from the Greater Khingan Mountains, China
Plecoptera (stoneflies) are an ancient order of aquatic insects that serve as vital bioindicators in freshwater ecosystems. This study focuses on the Greater Khingan Mountains in north-eastern China, a biodiversity hotspot with limited stonefly research. By documenting new genera and species records, it expands our knowledge of Chinese Plecoptera. The findings enhance biogeographical and ecological insights into this underexplored region.This paper records five families, six genera and seven species of stoneflies from the Greater Khingan Mountains, among them Diura Billberg, 1820 and Megarcys Klapálek, 1912 as new Chinese-recorded genera and seven species recorded for the first time in China, including Isocapnia kudia Ricker, 1959, Paraleuctra zapekinae Zhiltzova, 1974, Nemoura arctica Esben-Petersen, 1910, Nemoura sirotskii Teslenko, 2018, Diura majuscula (Klapálek, 1912), Megarcys ochracea (Klapálek, 1912) and Utaperla lepnevae (Zhiltzova, 1970). The research materials were from the northern part of the Greater Khingan Mountains in north-eastern China, including parts of Heilongjiang Province and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
["Plecoptera"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

New data on the huntsman spiders (Araneae, Sparassidae) of China
Sparassidae Bertkau, 1872 is the tenth largest family of Araneae, with 11 genera and 288 species known in China.In the current paper, four newly-recorded species from China are provided: Heteropoda acris Korai & Jäger, 2024, Olios sericeus (Kroneberg, 1875), O. suung Jäger, 2012 and Rhitymna plana Jäger, 2003, of which O. sericeus is re-described, based on specimens collected from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. Additionally, a new Thelcticopis species, T. lini sp. nov., is described.

Preparation and mounting of a sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus Linnaeus, 1758) at the Natural History Museum in Oslo, Norway
Natural History Collections and Museomics
In this report, we detail the process undertaken for preparing and mounting a sperm whale skeleton (Physeter macrocephalus Linnaeus, 1758) specimen for exhibition at the Natural History Museum of Oslo, University of Oslo, which was displayed in 2022. We provide a detailed account of materials applied and techniques used in the specimen for skeletonisation, including defleshing, carcass composting and maceration. We highlight a successful and cost-effective application of horse manure as a bulking agent in carcass composting and readily available detergents in maceration. Furthermore, we describe the skeleton mounting process, addressing architectural limitations restricting the possible loads on the ceiling. Consequently, the adjusted mounting procedure had to be undertaken, which included the construction of a custom-made podium and a steel support structure. Lastly, we present the result of the skeleton mount, which is supplemented with a 3D photogrammetric model.
["Skeleton mounting"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

On the origin of the Theropithecus gelada specimens from the Field Museum 1926–1927 Abyssinian expedition: a case for the extended specimen approach
Natural History Collections and Museomics
The historical distribution of the central gelada, Theropithecus gelada obscurus, an Ethiopian endemic primate, is generally considered to be bounded on the west by the Blue Nile Gorge. However, a small number of museum specimens reported as being collected in the areas of Gojjam and Ambo Mineral Springs (west of Lake Tana) have long represented the only physical evidence suggesting a former occurrence of geladas west of this barrier. In this short communication, we reassessed the provenance of all T. gelada specimens collected during the 1926–1927 Abyssinian Expedition of the Field Museum of Chicago by integrating archival field diaries, expedition reports, original specimen tags, catalog records, photographs, and illustrations. Our analysis demonstrates that three specimens historically attributed to Gojjam and Ambo Mineral Springs (FHMN 27038, FHMN 27039, and FHMN 27040) were in fact collected at the Muger River Canyon in Shewa in October 1926 and were subsequently mislabeled due to cataloging errors. No verified gelada specimens from Gojjam or west of Lake Tana are therefore currently housed in the Field Museum. These findings remove the only physical evidence supporting the historical presence of T. gelada west of the Blue Nile Gorge and leave as the sole remaining record of geladas in Gojjam an unconfirmed indirect report by Rüppell. This reassessment has important implications for reconstructing the historical biogeography and range limits of T. gelada and highlights the value of the “extended specimen” approach for museum collections.
["Abyssinia"]
["Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Pleistocene-Era Hominins and Archaeology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Incomplete but invaluable: Reassessing the holotype of a singleton madagascan woodlouse (Oniscidea, Armadillidae)
Natural History Collections and Museomics
Historical type specimens, even when fragmentary, remain critical for resolving longstanding taxonomic uncertainties—particularly within neglected and underfunded groups such as terrestrial isopods. Many species described during early phases of exploration have never been revisited, leaving them in taxonomic limbo due to incomplete descriptions and the scarcity of new material. This study reexamines the Madagascan species Armadillo cassida Budde-Lund, 1908—known only from a single specimen—and finds that its distinctive and atypical morphological features warrant its transfer to a new genus, Revelosa gen. nov. Despite the limitations of the available material, key diagnostic traits were recovered that clearly differentiate it from all other genera in the family Armadillidae. This work highlights the enduring value of historical singletons in clarifying biodiversity, reducing taxonomic noise, and improving classification frameworks, even in the absence of fresh specimens. Such revisions are vital steps toward addressing the taxonomic impediment that continues to hinder progress in biodiversity research.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation"]

Type catalogue of the Simuliidae (Diptera) Collection of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute
An annotated catalogue of the Simuliidae (Diptera) type specimens housed in the Simuliidae Collection of the Oswaldo Cruz Institute (CSIOC) is presented, comprising 350 primary types and 235 secondary types, totalling 585 type specimens in 282 lots. Additionally, information on 88 specimens with unclear type status is also included in the present work. The catalogue covers 34 nominal species, representing approximately 34.5% of the known Simuliidae fauna in Brazil, as well as 12 species currently regarded as junior synonyms. Data on nomenclature, taxonomic classification, type status, preservation methods and taxonomic remarks are provided. In addition, 15 figures illustrate the conservation status of 28 primary type specimens from species described by Adolpho Lutz and César Pinto.

Critical revision of the myxomycete (Myxomycota, Myxomycetes) collection at the A. A. Jaczewski mycological herbarium (LEP): II. Type collection
The historical myxomycete collection of A. A. Jaczewski (1863–1932) at the All–Russian Institute of Plant Protection, Pushkin, Russia (LEP) includes a separate collection of type specimens. In this article, we report our re-examination of this collection using light and scanning electron microscopy and discuss the nomenclatural status and taxonomic position of the examined specimens. For the first time, were employed modern tools to examine 3 syntypes: Didymium subcastaneum (=Polyschismium trevelyanii), Stegasma australe (=Perichaena depressa), Trichia bavarica (=Oligonema schweinitzii). Also were studied 2 “syntypes”: Didymium neapolitanum (=Craterium crateriachea) [nom. inval., ICN, art. 36.1a] and Licea circumscissa f. pannosa (=Perichaena corticalis) [nom. inval. ICN, art. 38.1], and one “holotype” of Dianema czerniakowskii (=Didymium dubium) [nom. inval. ICN, art. 30.1]. One of the taxa, Licea circumscissa f. pannosa, is apparently mentioned for the first time since its description in 1879, as it is now absent from the main nomenclatural repositories.
["Amoebozoa"]
["Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Facing the taxonomic impediment — a reassessment of Merulanella Verhoeff, 1926 (Oniscidea, Armadillidae) through historical specimens
The taxonomic impediment has been identified as a problem for conservation biology since 1988. Although several measures have been developed to overcome it, major non-specialized scientific publishers have not fully addressed it. One of the more challenging solutions relies on the identification of taxonomic needs and priorities hampered by the scarcity and inaccessibility of resources. Currently, publishers often consider taxonomy on its own not worth publishing unless supplementary to additional work, such as genetic analyses, pushing publication to a restricted space in specialized journals. A revision of the terrestrial isopod genus Merulanella, through the literature and historical specimens, shows that taxonomies outlined before the development of certain key concepts in evolutionary biology need to be urgently revisited before new studies are done on them. Furthermore, some species in this genus are considered endangered due to the pet trade, albeit they are not included on the IUCN Red List. The taxonomy of the genus Merulanella was developed before and during the development of zoogeography and before the modern concept of vicariance, explaining the wide distribution of this genus with seven species spanning over three biogeographic realms: M. carinata, M. wahrbergi, M. dollfusi (Australasia), M. bicolorata, M. gibbera, M. lattissima (Indomalay), and M. peltata (Afrotropics). After revising the literature, the context of the produced taxonomy, and assessing the type material, first-hand and through photographs, the morphological dissimilarity justifies restricting Merulanella to the species from New Caledonia (Australasian realm), namely M. carinata, M. wahrbergi, and M. dollfusi. A new genus is proposed for the species from Flores, Indonesia, erecting Floresiodillo gibberum gen. et comb. nov., and F. latissimus gen. et. comb. nov., a new genus is erected for the species in Myanmar, Ardentiella bicolorata, gen. et comb. nov. and A. caerulea gen. et comb. nov. (both in the Indomalayan realm), and a new genus is erected for the species in Seychelles, Acutodillo peltatus gen. et comb. nov. (Afrotropical realm). Further studies will be needed to determine the phylogenetic relationships between these new genera and the history of their distribution. Still, this new framework better captures the diversity of the family Armadillidae for its conservation.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

The zoological collections of Portuguese oceanographic campaigns in former colonial territories
The Missão de Biologia Marítima (Lisboa, Portugal) and its successor institutions, were responsible for conducting oceanographic campaigns in former Portuguese colonies during the decades of 1950–1960. The primary objective was to advance the systematic study of marine resources in these territories, leading to the collection of thousands of specimens of marine fauna, particularly fishes, molluscs and crustaceans. In the late 1970s, the collection faced understaffing and was neglected, becoming largely inaccessible to the scientific community. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the collection, which is currently deposited in the Museu Nacional de História Natural e da Ciência, Universidade de Lisboa. The collection includes 7305 occurrences, for a total of over 30,000 specimens, most of which were collected in Angola, Cabo Verde and Mozambique between 1951 and 1965. The collection holds representatives of more than 1000 species and has a wide taxonomic coverage, including 19 type specimens of nine nominal taxa: the fishes Cubiceps niger Nümann in Franca, 1957, Tylosurus acus rafale Collete & Parin, 1970 and Chromis lubbocki Edwards, 1986; the cone snails Conus angolensis Paes da Franca, 1955 and Conus lucirensis Paes da Franca, 1955; the ark clam Arca geissei angolensis Paes da Franca, 1955; the squids Moroteuthis robsoni Adam, 1962 and Todarodes sagittatus angolensis Adam, 1962; and the snapping shrimp Alpheus holthuisi Ribeiro, 1964. A comprehensive description of the resulting dataset is provided, as well as a brief account of the history of these campaigns and the research conducted.
["Actinopteri"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Hail netting changes to spray droplets and patterns in grape canopies
Viticulture Data Journal
While hail netting in vineyards provides effective protection to wine grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) from hail, pests, and bird damage, it may also affect the spray efficacy. This study tested the interaction between hail netting and location within the canopy in determining spray droplet characteristics. Two grape cultivars (Petite Sirah FPS 04 and Touriga Nacional FPS 05) grafted onto 1103P rootstock were examined to assess spray coverage, droplet size distribution, and deposition within grapevine canopies under netted and unnetted conditions. Spray droplets were measured using spray cards placed at five locations within the canopy. Significant interactions were observed primarily at the base of the canopy directly above the cordon, where grape clusters are most concentrated. Unnetted Touriga Nacional exhibited higher spray coverage compared to Petite Sirah, attributed to its looser cluster structure. Hail netting standardized all parameters across both cultivars, mitigating the influence of canopy and cluster differences. Hail netting created smaller, uniformly distributed droplets within the canopy, an essential characteristic of effective pest and disease control. Conversely, without netting, larger droplets were unevenly distributed, predominantly settling on the outer and lower canopy sections. Hail netting also maintained deposit densities within recommended ranges, supporting effective pest and disease management without compromising spray coverage. The consistent spray coverage achieved with hail netting across all canopy locations highlights its role in improving application uniformity and grapevine health, leading to evenly ripened, high-quality fruit. Contrary to the perceived risk of reducing spray efficacy, hail netting appears to enhance vineyard spraying outcomes, potentially offsetting netting costs.
["canopy"]
["Horticultural and Viticultural Research", "Plant Surface Properties and Treatments", "Plant Physiology and Cultivation Studies"]

Secondary Bud Gas Exchange, Growth, and Fruitfulness of Vitis vinifera L. cultivars, ‘Grenache’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ Grown on the Texas High Plains
Viticulture Data Journal
In 2017, the grape and wine industry had an overall economic impact of $13.1 billion within the state of Texas. The majority of grapes grown in Texas are produced within the Texas High Plains American Viticultural Area (AVA). However, vineyards within the Texas High Plains AVA are subject to late spring frosts which can potentially diminish fruit quality, and reduce crop production. To assist in planning and production efforts, Texas High Plains AVA grape growers require information regarding vine secondary bud growth and fruitfulness. Therefore, the objectives of this experiment were to compare the growth and fruitfulness of shoots grown from primary and secondary buds of Vitis vinifera L. ‘Grenache’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ vines grafted to 110R rootstocks. Vines were planted in an experimental vineyard in 2008. Each year over two consecutive growing seasons (2016 – 2017) vines were exposed to the following treatments: primary bud growth intact, and following bud break allowing primary bud shoot growth to reach 15.0 cm in length then removing primary bud shoots (forcing growth from secondary buds). Gas exchange, growth, fruitfulness, and fruit total soluble solid data were collected each year. Collected data followed similar trends each growing season. Hence, data from each growing season were pooled. Gas exchange data indicate leaves from primary shoots had lower photosynthetic rates, and stomatal conductance when compared to leaves grown on secondary shoots. In addition, ‘Grenache’ leaves had greater gas exchange when compared to ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ leaves. Pruning weights, vine yield, cluster mass, and total soluble solids were greater for shoots grown from primary buds. ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ vines had greater pruning weights, but ‘Grenache’ vines had greater crop load (Ravaz Index) and cluster mass. Yield and total soluble solids did not differ between grape cultivars, but the number of clusters from each vine, and berry mass varied with cultivar and bud treatment. In the late spring frost-prone Texas High Plains AVA, cultivar selection continues to be a critical factor for vineyard success. Results indicate decreased yields from all vines with shoot growth only from secondary buds. However, even though ‘Grenache’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ vines responded differently to bud treatments (‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ vines generally produced a greater number of smaller clusters when compared to ‘Grenache’ vines), for each cultivar overall yield was similar across all bud treatments. Therefore, Texas High Plains AVA and other grape producers now have additional information that may assist them when making critical vineyard management choices.
["Compound bud"]
["Horticultural and Viticultural Research", "Fermentation and Sensory Analysis", "Plant Physiology and Cultivation Studies"]

Effect of the plot variability on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the berry's skins and seeds of grape cultivar Agiorgitiko (Vitis vinifera L.)
Viticulture Data Journal
["anthocyanins"]
["Horticultural and Viticultural Research", "Fermentation and Sensory Analysis", "Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis"]

Comparative study of qualitative and quantitative characters of grape cultivar 'Mavrodafni' (Vitis vinifera L.) and 'Renio' grown in different regions of the Protected Designation of Origin Mavrodafni Patras
["anthocyanins"]
["Horticultural and Viticultural Research", "Fermentation and Sensory Analysis", "Wine Industry and Tourism"]

First record of soft-winged flower beetles (Coleoptera, Malachiidae) in a late Pleistocene deposit from West Siberia with a review of known Quaternary data
Acta Biologica Sibirica
Soft-winged flower beetles (Coleoptera, Malachiidae), Apalochrus femoralis pallipes Motschulsky, 1860 and Ebaeus Erichson, 1840 species, are recorded for the first time from Quaternary fossils in the deposit Ustyanka-1 near Ustyanka river, the right tributary of Alei river in Altaiskii Krai, West Siberia, Russia. The strata containing malachiid fragments belong to the warm phase of the late glacial succession. It is shown that soft-winged flower beetles are typical of Holocene deposits and practically unknown from cold phases of the Pleistocene, except in the case of Protapalochrus Evers, 1987 which has been recorded from the Pleistocene. Illustrations of the external appearance of both male and female of the beetles, and sub-fossil remains of Apalochrus femoralis pallipes Motschulsky, 1860 and three species from the Ebaeus rufipes-group distributed in the region are given, together with details of their position within the Ustyanka-1 deposit. Data on the Malachiidae in Quaternary deposits of the Northern Hemisphere are briefly reviewed.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New data on spiders (Arachnida, Aranei) of Kamchatka, Russia
Acta Biologica Sibirica
Since 1885 and for almost a century the Kamchatka Peninsula had been a region of Russia east of the Urals with the best studied spider fauna. Currently, Kamchatka can be considered the least studied Siberian region. In this paper, we have provided a brief overview of Tatyana V. Pavlenko's spider collection compiled in Kamchatka in 1988-1992. A species list contains 108 species belonging to 15 families, of which 25 species, five genera and the family Titanoecidae are new to the spider fauna of Kamchatka. Walckenaeria subspiralis Millidge, 1983 is recorded from the Palaearctic Region for the first time. Kolymocyba petrophila Eskov, 1989 previously known from Magadan Area only is illustrated to provide more detail data about its morphology. The female of Micaria yeniseica Marusik & Koponen, 2002 that was previously known from the holotype male from the middle reaches of Yenisei River only is described for the first time. Two species – M. yeniseica and Zelotes azsheganovae Esyunin & Efimik, 1992 – significantly extended their known range to the east. Based on new data, a total number of the spider species known from Kamchatka has extended to 273.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

A review of Apha floralis species group (Lepidoptera: Eupterotidae)
Acta Biologica Sibirica
5 species of the genus Apha Walker, 1855 are included here under the floralis group, three of which are described as new: A. zephyrus sp. nov. (type locality: China, Yunnan, Dianceng Shan, 2.200 m), A. witti sp. nov. (type locality: China, Sichuan, Qionglai Shan, 1.400 m) and A. chloralis sp. nov. (type locality: Vietnam, Cha Val, Nam Giang, Quang Nam, 546 m). Types of all species are illustrated, biology and morphology of preimaginal instars are discussed for A. kantonensis Mell, [1930] and A. chloralis sp. nov. A new synonymy for Apha Walker, 1855 and Preptothauma Draudt, 1931 (including a single mislabeled species P. oxydiata Draudt, 1931), syn. nov. is established.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

A review of leaf-miner tephritid flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) of the south-eastern part of West Siberia, Russia
Eleven leaf-miner tephritid fly species from 7 genera are reviewed for four regions in the south-eastern part of West Siberia, Russia, namely Tomskaya and Kemerovskaya Oblasts, Altaiskii Krai, and Republics of Altai and Khakassia. The share of leaf-miner species in the tephritid fly fauna of the region is 10.2%. Cornutrypeta svetlanae Richter & Shcherbakov, 2000, recorded from four regions, is the most numerous and widely distributed species preferring forest belt in the mountains of Kuznetskii Alatau (Kemerovskaya Oblast and Khakassia), North Altai (Republic of Altai) and West Altai (Altaiskii Krai). Two species are registered in only one region, namely Cornutrypeta spinifrons (Schroeder, 1913) in the forest belt of the Kuznetskii Alatau mountains (Kemerovskaya Oblast) and Hemilea dimidiata (Costa, 1844) in the forest meadows of Tomskaya Oblast. The rarest species in the region are Cornutrypeta spinifrons (Schroeder, 1913) and Trypeta zoe Meigen, 1826 known by single or several specimens only. Comments on the distribution and trophic relation of all the species are provided.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Rare grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Acridoidea) of the Baraba and Kulunda steppes (South Siberia)
The first list of the rare grasshoppers of the Baraba and Kulunda steppes is presented. Two sets of distribution data are compared: (1) for the first half of 20th century and (2) for 1972–2019. A series of digital maps was generated by MapInfo 12.03. The distribution patterns of several species, namely Asiotmethis muricatus (Pallas), Notostaurus albicornis (Eversmann), Eremippus simplex (Eversmann), Myrmeleotettix antennatus (Fieber), Gomphocerippus rufus (Linnaeus), Mesasippus arenosus (Bey-Bienko), Mecostethus parapleurus (Hagenbach), Locusta migratoria Linnaeus, did not change significantly. Four taxa (Asiotmethis jubatus (Uvarov), Arcyptera fusca (Pallas), Stenobothrus carbonarius (Eversmann), Sphingonotus coerulipes Uvarov) were relatively often in the first half of 20th century and nowadays they are extremely rare. Two species, namely Megaulacobothrus aethalinus (Zubovsky) and Aeropedellus variegatus (Fischer de Waldheim), were recently found near the south-eastern and north-eastern boundaries of the region respectively. There are also the type localities of Asiotmethis jubatus and Mesasippus arenosus in the Kulunda steppe.
["Acrididae"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

A new genus of Liocranidae (Arachnida: Araneae) from Tajikistan
A new genus, Platnick gen. n., with three new species, P. shablyai sp. n. (♂, type species), P. astana sp. n. (♀) and P. sanglok sp. n. (♀), are described from Tajikistan. The male of the type species has a unique pair of longitudinal ventral postgastral scuta. Females have such scuta also, but they are much shorter. The new genus is placed in Liocranidae Simon, 1897. A discussion on the subfamilies of Liocranidae and comments on the family-group names are provided.

The first data on the nesting biology of the invasive blue nest-renting wasp, Chalybion turanicum (Gussakovskij, 1935) (Hymenoptera, Sphecidae, Sceliphrinae) in the Crimea
Abstract The nesting biology of Chalybion turanicum (Gussakovskij, 1935) has been studied, with a total of 31 nests being examined. All studied nests were located inside the old nest cells of Sceliphron destillatorium (Illiger, 1807). Each nest of Ch. turanicum consisted of a single cell. Females hunted for spiders, with 18 species in five families being identified among their prey. Two most abundant victim groups were Theridiidae (eight species, 54% of specimens) and Araneidae (seven species, 33% of specimens) spiders. A spider number stored in a cell varied from five to 31 (mean = 17.6 ± 5.4). In the Crimea, Ch. turanicum has one generation per year with reproductive success of 67%. Two species of the nest parasites were reared from cells of Ch. turanicum: Chrysis taczanovskii Radoszkowski, 1876 and Acroricnus seductor (Scopoli, 1786). Chalybion turanicum is the seventh invasive species of Sphecidae naturalized in Europe.
["Sphecid wasps"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Unexpected finding of rare and little known leaf beetle Chrysolina levi (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) in West Siberia
The first record of rare and little known leaf beetle Chrysolina levi Okhrimenko, 1990 was registered in the Omsk region (West Siberia). Redescription of male is given because holotype was collected dead and damaged, lacking legs, antennae, head and pronotum. Position of Chrysolina levi inside subgenus Chalcoidea is discussed, its distribution area in Scythian steppe region is now considered as Taman’–Irtysh instead of Pontic.
["Chrysolina levi"]

New records of long-legged flies (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) from Wrangel Island Nature Reserve (Chukotka AD, Russia)
New original data on five Dolichopodidae species from the Wrangel Island resulted from the 2015–2019 surveys in the Wrangel Island State Nature Reserve are presented. As a result of this study, a new material of Dolichopodidae has been identified, being collected from the new localities in the Wrangel Island Nature Reserve, and a new species Rhaphium tripartitum has been found on the Island. The present research excludes R. nigrum from the Chukchi fauna and expands the Dolichopus terminasianae area westward to the Yamal Peninsula.
["Arctic"]

New records of water scavenger beetles Berosus geminus Reiche & Saulcy, 1856 (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae) from Russia
The species Berosus geminus Reiche & Saulcy, 1856 (Hydrophilidae) is recorded for the first time for European part of Russia. A map with the general distribution of this species is provided.
["Berosus"]

New data on spiders (Arachnida, Aranei) from the caves of Southwestern Siberia (Russia)
The paper reports six species of spiders from five families found in three caves located in the Altai Krai, Novosibirsk Oblast and Kemerovo Oblast of Russia. One troglophilic species, Improphantes improbulus (Simon, 1929) is recorded from Siberia and the Altai Mountains for the first time and another troglophile species, Metellina merianae (Scopoli, 1763) is recorded from the Novosibirsk Oblast for the first time. Improphantes improbulus, a species new to Siberia, is illustrated. The distribution and habitat preferences of all six species is discussed.
["Altai Mountains"]

New data on the fauna of Heteroceridae (Coleoptera) of the Republic of Khakassia (Eastern Siberia)
The recent status of the family Heteroceridae in Siberia is discussed and the main references are given. From ten species of the Heteroceridae, which have been reported for the fauna of Siberia, only one species Heterocerus parallelus Gebler, 1830 was previously recorded in southern Khakassia. Here we presented six species from two genera of the family Heteroceridae (Coleoptera), which we collected in the Republic of Khakassia (Eastern Siberia, Russia). We recorded five species (Augyles interspidulus (Charpentier, 1979), Heterocerus fenestratus (Thunberg, 1784), H. fossor Kiesenwetter, 1843, H. fusculus Kiesenwetter, 1843, and H. obsoletus Curtis, 1828) in Khakassia for the first time. We collected the material in Abakan River valley (Abakan city) using an ultraviolet lamps in 2018–2019. We used BLB-T5/4W Ultraviolet Black Light Bulb with 2–3 hours of exposure from May 27 to October 13, 2018 and FLU10 T8 G13/18W with 2–13 hours of exposure from March 31 to October 10, 2019. Second author collected the majority of examined specimens; all specimens are deposited in collection of the Papanin Institute for Biology of Inland Waters of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
["Augyles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Porcellionides pruinosus (Brandt, 1833) – a new woodlouse species (Isopoda: Oniscidea: Porcellionidae) in the fauna of Belarus
Abstract We presented our findings of woodlouse Porcellionides pruinosus (Brandt, 1833), a new Porcellionidae species for the fauna of Belarus. We collected this species in Gomel region (June 2020). We also presented the data on species distribution.
["Porcellionides pruinosus"]
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New records of weevils (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) from Western Siberia
There are the westernmost records of Dorytomus peneckei and Catapionus quadrilineatus, and the first record of Cardipennis rubripes from Novosibirsk Oblast. Distribution maps for these species are given.
["Curculionoidea"]

First records of the Dendroxena quadrimaculata (Scopoli, 1771) (Coleoptera, Silphidae) in Tyumen region and possible reasons for its range expansion in Western Siberia
The paper presents data on the first records of Dendroxena quadrimaculata (Scopoli, 1771) in the Tyumen region. D. quadrimaculata is distributed in the European part of Russia, Caucasus and south of Siberia. This species was not previously recorded in the Tyumen region, but within two years (2018–2019), it spread throughout the region. We considered the possible reasons for its range expansion in Western Siberia.
["Dendroxena quadrimaculata"]

Additions to the vascular flora of the Tyumen region, Western Siberia
The article contains information on five species and three hybrids (Potamogeton × acutus, Potamogeton × pseudolacunatus, Stuckenia chakassiensis × S. macrocarpa) of vascular plants new to the Tyumen Region; seven of them are hydrophyte and one is a semi-aquatic species. We provided the occurrence data on 37 plant species not previously known in examined administrative districts of the Tyumen region, including four protected (Cypripedium macranthos, Pedicularis dasystachys, Ranunculus silvisteppaceus, Zannichellia repens) and four alien species (Elodea canadensis, Galega orientalis, Impatiens glandulifera, Phragmites altissimus).
["Alien plants"]
["Soil and Environmental Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Occasional photographic records of butterflies (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) in Cambodia: 3, Pursat, Siem Reap, Preah Vihear and Stung Treng Provinces in western, north-western and northern Cambodia
Abstract The butterfly (Papilionoidea) fauna of Cambodia is very rich but too insufficiently studied. Results are presented of occasional photographic records of butterflies (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) made in 2016–2019 (some also in 2006) along with studies on the Odonata fauna in 67 localities of western and northern provinces of Cambodia: Pursat, Siem Reap, Preah Vihear and Stung Treng. This paper completes the two previous communications of this series devoted to the south-western and eastern provinces of this country. In total, 162 identified and 13 provisionally identified species are listed; 22 species (Miletus ancon, Arhopala agrata, A. alesia, A. allata, A. ammonides, A. atrax, A. aurelia, A. moolaiana, A. silhetensis, Drupadia theda, Anthene licates, Prosotas aluta, Danaus chrysippus, Cirrochroa surya, Doleschallia bisaltide, Athyma ranga, Euthalia recta, Burara oedipodea, Hasora chromus, Pseudocoladenia dan, Koruthalaios sindu, Parnara ganga) are for the first time reported in literature for Cambodia. These and some problematic species are illustrated. Some misidentifications in the two first communications of the series are made; due to reidentification Arhopala camdana and Borbo cinnara are for the first time reported for Cambodia in literature.
["Fauna"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Materials on the fauna of true bugs (Heteroptera) of East Kazakhstan Region of the Republic of Kazakhstan
New data on the distribution of 101 species from 16 Heteroptera families in the East Kazakhstan Region of the Republic of Kazakhstan are reported. Twelve species are recorded for the first time from the study area: Nabis nigrovittatus steppensis (Kerzhner, 1981) (Nabidae), Deraeocoris ater (Jakovlev, 1889), Orthops mutans (Stål, 1858), Oncotylus setulosus (Herrich-Schaeffer, 1837) (Miridae), Dictyla humuli (Fabricius, 1794) (Tingidae), Coranus aethiops Jakovlev, 1893 (Reduviidae), Aradus crenaticollis R.F. Sahlberg, 1848 (Aradidae), Horvathiolus superbus (Pollish, 1781), Acompus rufipes (Wolff, 1804), Acanthosoma denticaudum (Jakovlev, 1880) (Acanthosomatidae), Rubiconia peltata Jakovlev, 1890, and Eurydema fieberi Fieber, 1837 (Pentatomidae). Based on the latest data, the fauna of true bugs of the East Kazakhstan Region comprises 482 species from 25 families.
["Insects"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Orthopteroid insects (Mantodea, Blattodea, Dermaptera, Phasmoptera, Orthoptera) of agrocenosis of rice fields in Kyzylorda oblast, South Kazakhstan
Abstract An annotated list of Orthopteroidea of rise paddy fields in Kyzylorda oblast in South Kazakhstan is given. A total of 60 species of orthopteroid insects were identified, belonging to 58 genera from 17 families and 5 orders. Mantids are represented by 3 families, 6 genera and 6 species; cockroaches – by 2 families, 2 genera and 2 species; earwigs – by 3 families, 3 genera and 3 species; sticks insects – by 1 family, 1 genus and 1 species. Orthopterans are most numerous (8 families, 46 genera and 48 species). Of these, three species, Bolivaria brachyptera, Hierodula tenuidentata and Ceraeocercus fuscipennis, are listed in the Red Book of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Celes variabilis and Chrysochraon dispar indicated for the first time for a given location. The fauna of orthopteroid insects in the studied areas of Kyzylorda is compared with other regions of Kazakhstan.
["Orthopteroidea"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Floras of the Archatinskoe and Chernovinskoe Forestries of the Katon-Karagay State National Nature Park (the Republic of Kazakhstan)
Synopses of vascular plant species and subspecies, registered in two forestries of the Katon-Karagay State National Nature Park (the Republic of Kazakhstan) are presented. A total of 393 species/subspecies were registered in the Archatinskoe Forestry and 383 taxa were found in the Chernovinskoe Forestry. Nine taxa have been included in the List of Rare and Endangered Plant Species of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Huperzia selago (L.) Bernh. ex Schrank et Mart., Paeonia anomala L., P. hybrida Pall., Rheum altaicum Losinsk., Rhodiola rosea L., Fornicium carthamoides (Willd.) Kamelin (= Rhaponticum carthamoides (Willd.) Iljin.), Lilium pilosiusculum (Freyn) Miscz. (= L. martagon L.), Erythronium sibiricum (Fisch. et C.A. Mey.) Krylov, and Dactylorhiza fuchsii (Druce) Soó.
["Medicinal Plants and Bioactive Compounds", "Biochemical and biochemical processes", "Botanical Studies and Applications"]

Catalogue of Lepidoptera of Omsk Oblast (Russia). Macrolepidoptera. Families: Hepialidae, Brachodidae, Cossidae, Sesiidae, Limacodidae, Zygaenidae, Thyrididae, Drepanidae, Uraniidae, Geometridae, Lasiocampidae, Lemoniidae, Endromididae, Saturniidae, Sphingidae, Notodontidae, Lymantriidae, Arctiidae, Syntomidae, Erebidae, Nolidae, Noctuidae, Hesperiidae, Papilionidae, Pieridae, Lycaenidae, Nymphalidae, Satyridae
A total of 972 species of Macrolepidoptera belonging to 28 families are reported for the territory of Omsk Oblast. The most numerous is Noctuidae family represented by 358 species, followed by Geometridae (252 species), Erebidae (48), Lycaenidae (42), Arctiidae (40), Nymphalidae (37), Satyridae and Notodontidae (27 species in each family), Pieridae, Sphingidae, Lasiocampidae (17 species in each family), Hesperiidae (15), Lymantriidae (13), Zygaenidae and Sesiidae (12 species in each family), Drepanidae (10), Nolidae (7), Cossidae (4), Papilionidae and Hepialidae (3 species in each family), Syntomidae, Saturniidae and Lemoniidae (2 species in each family), Endromididae, Uraniidae, Thyrididae, Limacodidae and Brachodidae (1 species in each family). A total of 13 species were registered in Omsk Oblast for the first time, among them Pennisetia hylaeiformis (Laspeyres, 1801), Synanthedon martjanovi Sheljuzhko, 1918, Synanthedon spheciformis ((Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775), Synanthedon uralensis (Bartel, 1906, Bembecia sp., Chamaesphecia astatiformis (Herrich-Schäffer, 1846), Alcis jubata (Thunberg, 1788), Dysstroma infuscata (Tengström, 1869), Scopula tessellaria (Boisduval, 1840), Panchrysia deaurata (Esper, 1787), Amphipoea crinanensis (Burrows, 1908), Euxoa eruta (Hübner, (1827), Xestia sexstrigata (Haworth, 1809). The list of doubtful and erroneously records is given.
["Russia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new subspecies of Parnassius arcticus (Eisner, 1968) (Lepidoptera, Papilionidae) from the Momsky Range (Yakutia, Russia)
On the basis of the characters of external morphology and analysis of DNA barcodes, an isolated population of the Arctic Apollo, Parnassius arcticus (Eisner, 1968) (Lepidoptera, Papilionidae), from the Momsky Range mountains (northeastern Yakutia, Russia) is described here as a new subspecies, Parnassius arcticus arbugaevi Yakovlev & Shapoval, subsp. nov. The taxonomy, distribution, ecology, and biotopical preferences of the nominotypical P. arcticus and the new subspecies are discussed.

Additional records of osmiine bees (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae: Osmiini) from Azerbaijan
Data on 38 species and four subspecies of three genera of the tribe Osmiini (Megachilidae) collected in Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan are presented. Of them, 19 species and one subspecies are recorded for the fauna of Azerbaijan for the first time. This paper is based on the material of more than 155 specimens, collected by the authors in June 2019 in 21 localities of the republic. Additional 44 specimens of Osmiini from the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic stored in the collection of the Institute of Zoology of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan, Baku have also been studied. Currently, 64 species and four subspecies of osmiine bees are known from this country. This is distinctly less in comparison with the adjacent fauna of Turkey (247), Turkmenistan (110) and Iran (88), but more than understudied faunas of Georgia (31) and Armenia (44). It is assumed that the number of Osmiini species in Azerbaijan may be at least twice as large.

New and additional faunistic records of the long-legged flies (Diptera: Dolichopodidae) from Azerbaijan and Georgia
New and additional faunistic records for 13 species of Dolichopodidae were given from Azerbaijan and Georgia. The species richness of Azerbaijan increased to 92 taxa as Sybistroma transcaucasica (Stackelberg, 1941) and Thinophilus quadrimaculatus Becker, 1902 are the new records for the Azerbaijan territory. Campsicnemus marginatus Loew, 1857, Sybistroma transcaucasica (Stackelberg, 1941) and Tachytrechus hamatus Loew, 1871 are recorded for the first time in Georgia and the species diversity increased to 74 taxa. and additional faunistic records for 13 species of Dolichopodidae were given from Azerbaijan and Georgia.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

First record of the moorland clouded yellow Colias palaeno (Linnaeus, 1761) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) in Altai Krai (Russia, West Siberia) with notes on its DNA barcode
Colias palaeno (Linnaeus, 1761) is reported from Altai Krai for the first time. The DNA barcode of the collected specimen was analysed and compared with molecular data on European populations of C. palaeno available in the public databases GenBank (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) and BOLD (http://www.boldsystems.org). The molecular analysis has shown that the specimen from Altai Krai shares mitochondrial barcode with some specimens from mountain populations of the Alps and the Czech Republic, and differs significantly from lowland populations of C. palaeno from Central and Northern Europe.

First results of Central Asiatic Euchalcia DNA-studies: comparison of nucleotide sequence differences in COI between Euchalcia herrichi and Euchalcia gyulai (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
We submitted first results of the DNA studies of the Central Asiatic owlet moths of the genus Euchalcia. Standard cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) gene fragments were sequenced for DNA barcoding of six specimens belonging to Euchalcia herrichi and Euchalcia gyulai. We compared the received sequences between discussed species and with two European Euchalcia species (E. variabilis and E. consona). We found no variability within the COI sequences of the samples collected in the same locality (Alai Mts., Kyrgyzstan), whereas the difference in COI sequences between two populations (Ketmen Mts., Kazakhstan and Alai Mts., Kyrgyzstan) was 0.005.
["Owlet moths"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

Chromosome numbers for the Italian flora: 18
Italian Botanist
This study presents new chromosome numbers for two native Italian species: Crepis suffreniana (DC.) Steud. (Asteraceae), whose only Italian population is known for the Migliarino-San Rossore-Massaciuccoli Regional Park in Tuscany, and Dianthus furcatus Balb. subsp. furcatus (Caryophyllaceae), a taxon distributed in Italy in the western Alps. Concerning C. suffreniana, our count confirms previously published reports from France. For D. furcatus subsp. furcatus, we report a hexaploid level, contrasting with previous studies on D. furcatus s.l. from the Italian Alps, which documented only the diploid level.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

Notulae to the Italian alien vascular flora: 21
Italian Botanist
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, and status changes from casual to naturalized or invasive for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Asparagus, Bidens, Boerhavia, Campsis, Catharanthus, Cenchrus, Cortaderia, Cupressus, Cyperus, Elaeagnus, Eragrostis, Hydrocotyle, Lantana, Lonicera, Othocallis, Pinus, Quercus, Salpichroa, Sparaxis, Stenotaphrum, Taxodium, and Wisteria. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as supplementary material.
["Alien species"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Ecology and Soil Science"]

Habitat, plant landscape and biodiversity of Ofanto River (southern Italy)
Italian Botanist
The Ofanto River represents one of the main fluvial systems of southern Italy in terms of extent, ecological value, and landscape role. This study reconstructed the plant vegetation landscape along the riverbanks, from the source to the mouth of the river, through the development of a thematic cartography and the classification of habitats according to CORINE Biotopes codes. The approach integrated spatial analysis with field surveys, photointerpretation to validate in situ observations, and comparison with existing cartography. The analysis identified a total surface area of 26.97 km², with a clear predominance of riparian forests of Populus sp. pl. and Salix sp. pl. poplars and willows, covering 64.88% of the area. These are followed by Mediterranean downy oak woodlands (25.06%), temperate shrub lands with deciduous broadleaves (3.70%), conifer reafforestation (4.78%), and reed beds dominated by Phragmites australis (1.58%). The results highlight a gradient of increasing naturalness upstream, with riparian formations representing the structural backbone of the riverine ecological network. The study emphasizes the need for integrated management of the Ofanto corridors, focusing on the conservation of natural habitats, the control of invasive species, and the preservation of ecological connectivity across the landscape.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Hydrology and Sediment Transport Processes"]

Checklist of the vascular flora of the “Piani di Montelago” (Marche, Italy)
This study aims to provide a checklist of the vascular flora of the Piani di Montelago (Marche, Italy), a wetland of high conservation interest, by integrating historical records with data collected in a dedicated survey, and assess the changes in the occurrence of taxa of conservation interest over the last few decades. The floristic list consists of 481 specific and subspecific taxa, belonging to 65 families and 263 genera. Two taxa are floristic novelties to Italy (Taraxacum subalpinum and T. porrigentilobatum group), and six are new to the Marche regional flora (Carex paniculata subsp. paniculata, Hypericum perfoliatum, Lophiolepis eriophora, Mentha arvensis, Taraxacum frisicum, and T. olivaceum). Twenty-one taxa are included in the IUCN Red List of the Italian Flora, six of which were not found in our survey. Among the taxa that were not found, 17 are typical of wetlands or are interesting from a conservation viewpoint. Most of these floristic losses can be traced back to the anthropogenic alterations that occurred in this wetland between the 1960s and 1970s.
["Central Apennines"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Vegetation survey and hydrochemical characterization of newly discovered mountain wetlands in the Madonie and Nebrodi mountains (Sicily)
The wetland vegetation of two unexplored mountain localities of Sicily was surveyed. A total of 14 wetland sites (springs, peaty springs, temporary ponds) are newly described. Vegetation plots and associated hydrochemical variables were surveyed in each site. The classification of the vegetation relevés led to the description of ten new plant communities, along with records of additional syntaxa already known from other areas of Sicily and southern Italy. All the identified plant communities and associations belong to the Dactylorhizo sacciferae-Juncion striati (Molinio-Arrhenatheretea) and the Alopecuro-Glycerion spicatae (Phragmito-Magnocaricetea) alliances. Nomenclatural revisions are proposed for certain syntaxa. The composition and structure of the described plant communities are analyzed and discussed in comparison with related communities from other European regions.
["Mediterranean vegetation"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Picea omorika (Pinaceae): an endangered endemic species from Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, locally naturalised in the Brembana Valley (Orobic Alps, Italy)
Picea omorika is an endangered conifer endemic to Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina. This research reports the first case of its naturalisation in Italy, specifically in a restricted area of the upper Brembana Valley (Orobic Alps, Lombardy), where an uneven-aged population, of approximately 50–60 individuals, grows within a wood pasture at 1,760–1,790 m a.s.l., inside the Orobie Bergamasche Regional Park. Dendrochronological analysis indicates that this population likely originated from a single tree planted for ornamental purposes near a mountain hut in the 1960s. Over the past 30 years, the species has propagated in the study area under cold, suboceanic climatic conditions and on moderately moist, nutrient-poor, slightly acidic soils, as inferred from climatic data and Ellenberg ecological indicator values. Grime’s competitor, stress tolerator, ruderal (CSR) functional strategy analysis classified P. omorika as a strictly stress-tolerant species (C = 0.0%, S = 100.0%, R = 0.0%) with low invasive potential. Phytosociological analysis indicates that the P. omorika community is part of a secondary succession that is progressing from pastures of Nardion strictae towards high-montane coniferous forests of Piceion excelsae. This research contributes to a better definition of the ecological niche of P. omorika.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Cinclidotus danubicus and C. riparius (Pottiales, Pottiaceae), two interesting moss species of watercourse ecosystems new to Liguria
During a series of surveys of macrophyte communities carried out as part of the monitoring plan for the watercourses of Liguria, the moss species Cinclidotus riparius and C. danubicus were found. For both species, these records represent the first reports for the Region; however, while C. riparius was repeatedly recorded throughout the entire monitoring period and in several sites across different watercourses in the area, C. danubicus was collected in a single location. The presence and distribution of C. riparius across a relatively high number of sites characterized by marked geolithological similarities made it possible to highlight a strong correlation between the territorial distribution of the moss and the lithology of the surrounding areas. Conversely, the single record of C. danubicus is of particular significance due to its rarity within Italian territory. Both species are of considerable interest because of their important role as bioindicators of the degree of ecological integrity of watercourses and their ecosystems.
["Bryidae"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Phytochemical analysis of methanolic, aqueous extracts, and essential oil composition of Alcea chrysantha (Malvaceae)
Alcea chrysantha (Malvaceae) is a medicinal plant with limited phytochemical characterization. This study aimed to provide the first profiling of its methanolic and aqueous extracts by determining total phenolic and flavonoid contents, evaluating antioxidant activity, and analyzing the essential oil composition. Methanolic and aqueous extracts were analyzed for total phenolic and flavonoid contents using standard spectrophotometric methods. Antioxidant activity was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Essential oils were analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The methanolic extract exhibited higher total phenolic and flavonoid contents than the aqueous extract. The methanolic extract also demonstrated stronger antioxidant activity with an IC₅₀ value of 712.3 ± 6.46 μg/mL. The FRAP assay revealed that the methanolic extract had higher reducing power in comparison with the aqueous extract. GC–MS analysis of the essential oil identified more than 30 compounds, predominantly aliphatic hydrocarbons (91.01%) and minor diterpenes (0.68%). Results showed that A. chrysantha is a medicinal plant with high phenolic and flavonoid contents, good antioxidant activity, and that it is a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and industrial sectors.
["Alcea chrysantha"]
["Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity", "Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Activities", "Medicinal Plant Research"]

Chromosome numbers for the Italian flora: 17
This study presents the first chromosome counts for Italy for Cephalaria joppensis (Rchb.) Coult. (Caprifoliaceae), a cryptogenic species occurring in southern Italy. The first chromosome counts for Hieracium acanthodontoides Arv.-Touv. & Belli (Asteraceae), endemic to central and southern Italy, and H. pulchellum Gren. ex Griseb. (Asteraceae), showing a disjunct distribution between western Alps and Abruzzo (central Italy), are also presented.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Notulae to the Italian alien vascular flora: 20
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, exclusions, and status changes from casual to naturalized or invasive for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Bidens, Ceratochloa, Chamaeiris, Cylindropuntia, Cyperus, Euphorbia, Freesia, Glinus, Hydrocotyle, Lagunaria, Megathyrsus, Myriophyllum, Opuntia, Schinus, Sparaxis, Sporobolus, Talinum, and Tradescantia. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as Suppl. material.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Notulae to the Italian native vascular flora: 20
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and exclusions to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Aethusa, Alchemilla, Astragalus, Avena, Carex, Centaurea, Centranthus, Chenopodiastrum, Crepis, Elatine, Filago, Gagea, Lamium, Lappula, Lysimachia, Nymphoides, Onobrychis, Plantago, Pseudopodospermum, Salix, Seseli, Stachys, Ulmus. A new combination in the genus Valeriana (V. pontecorvi) is proposed. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Endemic taxa"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

The ledge plant communities in a limestone cave of the Apuan area: identification and survey by UAV technology
The Apuan Alps are a mountain range in the north-west of Tuscany, part of the Tuscan Sub-Apennines. The particular geomorphology, exposure, and biogeographic location create a diversified vegetation landscape across altitudinal and latitudinal gradients. The sclerophyllous formations of the Mediterranean scrub and woods of the maritime side coexist with mesophilous broadleaf woods and grasslands at higher elevations. In this context, it is possible to find heterotopic patches of evergreen sclerophyllous vegetation in the inner mountain complex, closely linked to the external walls of limestone reliefs. These sites, often characterized by superficial and deep karst phenomena, reveal the presence of underground cavities frequented by humans since the post-glacial period. This article presents a case study involving field surveys and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) technology in a limestone cave near Tenerano (Massa-Carrara, Tuscany), to identify the species and the plant communities of the site for a historical reconstruction of the natural plant landscape.
["Apuan Alps"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

The segetal flora of Cynara cardunculus L. (globe artichoke) fields in Sardinia
The aim of the present study was to produce a first inventory of the segetal flora in Cynara cardunculus L. (globe artichoke) cropping systems in Sardinia (Italy), to address the limited research available to date, despite the economic significance of this crop. Field surveys were conducted during 2019–2021, at least three times per year, to assess the segetal flora and its main specific features (e.g., life forms, chorology and invasive status in Sardinia), using randomly located georeferenced plots (1 × 1 m) within each field. Based on floristic surveys, it was possible to make an inventory of 113 taxa classified into 91 native species of the Italian flora, 1 archaeophyte, 5 cryptogenic and 16 neophytes, of which 11 were invasive in Sardinia, four naturalized and one casual. Among identified species, 83 were therophytes, 23 hemicryptophytes, 6 geophytes, and 1 chamaephyte. The chorological spectrum shows up the dominance of Mediterranean with 52 species. Widely distributed taxa are represented by 20 species, followed by Eurasian ones with 9 taxa. The most frequent and abundant species were the three native Calendula arvensis (Vaill.) L., Convolvulus arvensis L., and Lolium rigidum Gaudin, the archaeophyte Avena fatua L. s.l., and the two neophytes Oxalis pes-caprae L., and Veronica persica Poir.
["Agroecosystems"]

Chromosome numbers for the Italian flora: 16
This study presents the first chromosome numbers for Italian populations of two species with a Euro-Mediterranean distribution: Atocion rupestre (L.) Oxelman (Caryophyllaceae) and Mantisalca duriaei (Spach) Briq. & Cavill. (Asteraceae). Both counts confirm the chromosome numbers reported for populations of the same species in other European countries.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Notulae to the Italian alien vascular flora: 19
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, exclusions, and status changes from casual to naturalized for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Abutilon, Aloë, Asparagus, Bidens, Cortaderia, Cyperus, Lonicera, Melia, Sesbania, and Ulmus. A new combination in the nothogenus ×Aloiampaloë is proposed. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Notulae to the Italian native vascular flora: 19
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and exclusions to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Carex, Filago, Koeleria, Lonicera, Myosotis, Phleum, Potamogeton, Staehelina, Verbascum, Zannichellia. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Endemic taxa"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

New records of monumental trees in the City of Bari (Apulia, Italy)
Monumental trees are a unique component of biodiversity that should be protected, managed, and valued just like stone monuments, historic centers, and grand architectural structures. In this paper we documented the presence of three old trees of Cupressus cashmeriana and one tree of Populus nigra, whose morphological and dendrometric parameters meets the criteria established to attribute the character of monumentality. Considering also their ecological and cultural importance, we propose the inclusion of these monumental trees in the regional and national lists.
["Urban Green Space and Health", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

An updated inventory of the vascular flora of the Island of Montecristo (Tuscan Archipelago, Italy)
We present an updated inventory of the vascular flora of the island of Montecristo (Tuscan Archipelago, Italy). The inventory has been updated based on a comprehensive bibliographical revision of floristic floras and previous inventories, together with the revision of herbarium specimens already preserved in Tuscan Herbaria and the implementation of survey campaigns carried out on the island between 2011 and 2024. The inventory counts 582 specific and subspecific taxa currently present on the island (including 515 spontaneous taxa and 67 cultivated ones), the highest number of species ever recorded on the island. Since 2000, 45 new to Montecristo Island, and 28 species confirmed after one century. We excluded 14 species, 8 of which were the result of a revision of herbarium material, which led to the correction of previous erroneous identification or due to the description of new taxa, such as Saxifraga montis-christi Mannocci, Ferretti, Mazzoncini & Viciani. The characterisation of the flora of Montecristo is consistent with the Mediterranean climate of the island in terms of life forms and chorotypes. The analysis showed that the main geographical distribution elements are Eurosiberian-Mediterranean and Mediterranean species, while the predominant life form is the therophyte. From a floristic point of view within the Tuscan Archipelago, Montecristo is the poorest island in terms of species and has the highest amount of endemism in relation to its surface area.
["Alien plant species"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Inventory of the vascular flora of the alkaline fen “Torbiera di Lipoi” (Veneto, northern Italy)
On the basis of literature, and herbarium data and new field research, we provide a diachronic floristic inventory of a small alkaline fen meadow close to the southern border of the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park (Veneto, N-Italy), whose toponymal is “Torbiera di Lipoi”. Overall, 319 infrageneric taxa were listed. Results indicate that, despite natural reforestation triggered by the abandonment of the traditional management of the fen, most of the fen-related vascular species still occur, including red-listed species, although their populations have probably decreased over time. Moreover, alien species are still a minor component of the flora, occurring in small scattered populations. However, there are signals of vulnerability, and probably the current vascular flora reflects a previous situation in which fen-related habitats were much larger than today. This urgently claims for active maintenance of the small open areas that still exist to counteract extinction debt dynamics.
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the bryological flora of Molise (Southern Italy)
Molise is one of the least known Italian administrative regions from a bryological point of view. The data collected during some bryological excursions in Molise are here reported. The list includes 88 species, of which 26 are new or confirmed for the regional flora: Antitrichia curtipendula, Cryphaea heteromalla, Dialytrichia mucronata, Eurhynchium striatum, Fabronia pusilla, Frullania tamarisci, Fontinalis antipyretica, Gymnostomum aeruginosum, Isothecium myosuroides, Leptodon smithii, Lewinskya speciosa, Marchantia quadrata, Neckera pumila, Nogopterium gracile, Oxyrrhinchium hians, Plagiomnium rostratum, Plagiothecium nemorale, Plasteurhynchium striatulum, Porella arboris-vitae, Schistidium crassipilum, Scleropodium touretii, Scorpiurium circinatum, Syntrichia papillosa, Syntrichia virescens, Thuidium tamariscinum, Tortella flavovirens var. flavovirens.
["Bryophytes"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Islands of lichen diversity in urban environments: a hidden richness in botanical gardens
Botanical gardens in city centres are green islands, offering a sanctuary for diverse plant and fungal species amidst urban landscapes. Although lichens are not usually a primary focus in botanical gardens, these spaces can serve as important refuges. In this work, the epiphytic lichen biota has been investigated in the Botanic Garden of Pisa, to uncover the hidden elements of biodiversity of botanical gardens in terms of non-target organisms. A total of 57 epiphytic lichen taxa and one non-lichenized fungus were recorded, including several threatened species. Two species, Arthopyrenia platypyrenia and Coenogonium tavaresianum, are new records for Tuscany, while Lecania cyrtellina is so far known in the region as occurring only in the Botanic Garden of Pisa. Lichen colonization reflects the richness of tree species, while the diffused presence of nitrogen-tolerant lichens could be associated with urban environmental conditions. Comments on Arthopyrenia platypyrenia, Coenogonium tavaresianum, Gyalecta liguriensis, Lecania cyrtellina, Lecanographa amylacea, Micarea misella, Porina borreri, and Waynea stoechadiana are given.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the bryophyte flora of the Lucanian side of the Pollino National Park
The findings of the Bryological Excursion conducted by the Working Group for Bryology of the Italian Botanical Society from 5 to 8 July 2012 on the Lucanian side of the Pollino National Park are presented herein. The objective of the excursion was to address the paucity of knowledge regarding bryological diversity in understudied regions of Italy. This endeavour led to the discovery of 150 species of bryophytes, 41 of which are novel to the Basilicata region. For each species, the collection location and growth substrate are indicated. Some of the species are of floristic and phytogeographic interest. This is a group of boreal and arctic-alpine species, previously documented only in the Alpine arc and at the highest peaks of the Apennine chain. The Pollino massif represents the southernmost limit of their range. It is worth noting the presence of Brachydontium trichodes, Schistidium papillosum, Tortula laureri and Herzogiella striatella. Another noteworthy assemblage of species is found on the ophiolitic rocks of Timpa delle Murge. The distinctive ecological characteristics of this substrate result in the evolution of species that are exclusive to these environments. The ecological characteristics and distribution of each species within these two groups are described in detail.
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Good practices for the industrial cultivation of the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis under a greenhouse in a temperate zone (northern Italy)
Arthrospira, Spirulina, and Limnospira are cyanobacteria widely known as food supplements or additives and cultivated worldwide under the commercial name of spirulina. Many studies have been focused on the improvement of operational conditions for optimizing cell growth and harvesting. At present, greater attention is paid to obtaining a good-quality, possibly food-grade, product that can be added to different food formulations and to reducing the environmental impact by saving water and avoiding or minimizing the release of mineral salts in the environment. A few studies have addressed these aspects although, in most cases, through laboratory experiments or pilot plants. This study focused on the effects of medium recycling, monitored at each harvesting step, and nutrient replenishment on Arthrospira platensis growth, biomass, biochemical composition, and extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) production, in a production plant located in a temperate zone (northeastern Italy). Four out of the seven largest ponds (11,000 L each) of the plant were followed for a three-month semi-continuous cultivation, which included the period with the highest biomass productivity. Recycling the culture medium after biomass harvest effectively allowed the best nutritional status of the cells. Biomass productivity increased from June to August 2023 (mean values: 0.029 and 0.038 g L-1 d-1 at 25–26 °C and 27–29 °C, respectively). Protein, polysaccharides, and C-phycocyanin contents were 62, 22, and 12%, respectively, while EPS was < 7 mg L-1. The biochemical composition did not vary during the cultivation period, differently from previous studies performed with small culture volumes and for a short time.
["Arthrospira platensis"]
["Algal biology and biofuel production", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

Three new records of genus Hohenbuehelia (Pleurotaceae, Agaricales) in Pakistan
Morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses were conducted to identify Hohenbuehelia species collected during 2020–2023 in Lahore, Margalla Hills, and Abbottabad in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan. The phylogenetic analysis was based on the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA. Among collected taxa, we identified H. canadensis, H. portegna, and H. tristis, which represent new records for the country. This research contributes to our knowledge of fungal diversity and the distribution of this genus in Pakistan. A key to the known species of Hohenbuehelia in Pakistan is also provided.
["Basidiomycota"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

The chromosome numbers for seven Italian endemic taxa of Armeria (Plumbaginaceae) are here presented, including three species (Armeria aspromontana, A. garganica, and A. macropoda) for which chromosome data are reported for the first time. Overall, this study confirms the diploid status and the chromosomal stability of Armeria.
["Armeria"]
["Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, exclusions, and status changes from casual to naturalized or invasive for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Acacia, Akebia, Allocasuarina, Aloë, Brachychiton, Convolvulus, Freesia, Gleditsia, Hesperocyparis, Kalanchoë, Liriope, Mazus, Melia, Phyla, Platycladus, Prunus, and Retama. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

New data on the morphology, ecology and distribution of Lupinus gredensis (Fabaceae) in the Mediterranean region
Lupinus gredensis is generally treated as an endemic species to the Iberian Peninsula, with some occurrences reported for the eastern Mediterranean, considered to be the result of an introduction. The finding of five populations attributable to L. gredensis on the south-eastern slopes of Mt. Etna (Sicily, Italy) is here reported for the first time. Lupinus gredensis samples from Mt. Etna were morphologically compared with fresh and herbarium preserved specimens of the related species L. luteus and L. hispanicus. The distribution and the ecology of the surveyed populations, as well as the phytosociological characterization of the plant communities hosting L. gredensis are defined. Finally, the chorological status of this species in Sicily is discussed through the review of the historical occurrence of L. luteus in the Mt. Etna area, providing new data on the putative distribution range of L. gredensis in the Mediterranean region.
["Italy"]
["Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

New Characeae (Charophyceae, Charales) report in eastern Sicily (Italy)
Nowadays species belonging to the green algal family Characeae are highly endangered. For this reason, many of them are protected by European directives and included in Red Lists. In Italy, however, the Red List of Characeae does not exist and the distribution of these species is often unknown, especially in Sicily wetlands. In this study, we investigated the distribution and morphology of Characeae in fresh and brackish water wetlands, both natural and artificial, located in various areas of eastern Sicily (Italy). During the survey Chara globularis Thuiller, Chara vulgaris Linnaeus, Nitella capillaris (Krocker) J.Groves & Bullock-Webster, and Tolypella glomerata (Desvaux) Leonhardi were found. This is the first record of these species in the investigated sites. The results improved the knowledge of freshwater algal biodiversity in Sicily and, above all, allowed to fill distribution gaps of the Characeae species, to apply adequate protection measures and create national Red Lists of Characeae.
["Aquatic flora"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Notulae to the Italian native vascular flora: 18
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and exclusions to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Alchemilla, Carex, Chenopodium, Cistus, Convolvulus, Erysimum, Euphorbia, Festuca, Klasea, Lotus, Orobanche, Poa, Stellaria, Trifolium, Viola. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Endemic taxa"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A systematic study of some lichenized fungi from Pakistan using nrITS marker
In a detailed investigation of lichen diversity in different regions of Pakistan, utilizing molecular and morphological techniques, we identified and reported three species – Dimelaena altissima, Lecanora chlarotera, and Usnea lapponica – as new records for Pakistan. Furthermore, nrITS sequences for Evernia prunastri, Lecanora horiza, L. hybocarpa, Peltigera polydactylon, and P. praetextata were generated for the first time from Pakistan. Detailed morpho-anatomical descriptions, habitat information, distribution data, and results of biochemical analyses are also provided for a better understanding of the lichen diversity and ecology in this region.
["Crustose"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Using drone imagery and group field activities for an in-depth investigation of the vascular flora: a case study in the Rocca di Novara Massif (NE Sicily, Italy)
Rocky habitats are suitable refuges for numerous rare and endemic plants. Due to their inaccessibility and the unreliability of traditional survey methods, assessing the survival status of these plants is quite a hard task. In order to address this sampling issue, we employed the drones and carried several field activities to investigate the vascular flora of Rocca di Novara massif located in Northeastern Sicily (NE Sicily hereafter). Located on the southern border of the Peloritani Mountains, Rocca di Novara, also known as Rocca Salvatesta, is a small carbonate massif and it represents one of the highest and most characteristic peaks in NE Sicily. According to our investigation, 300 taxa have been recorded, belonging to 189 genera and 51 different families. The results obtained show the presence of 13 endemic species to Italy (4.3%) and 12 strictly endemic to Sicily (4%). Some taxa of high phytogeographical value have been detected, such as Aubrieta columnae subsp. sicula, Daphne oleoides subsp. oleoides, Edraianthus graminifolius subsp. siculus, Fritillaria messanensis, Odontites bocconei subsp. bocconei, Phelipanche gussoneana, Saxifraga callosa subsp. australis. This latest species was rediscovered after 100 years on the high cliffs of Rocca di Novara thanks to the use of the drone imagery. Our results provide valuable insights into the floristic diversity of Rocca di Novara and offers a solid starting point for further phytogeographical and floristic studies on the vascular plants of the Peloritani district.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Contribution to the floristic knowledge of Mount Pennino massif (Umbria-Marche Apennines, central Italy)
The inventory of the taxa collected in 2021 during the annual field trip of the Working Group for Floristics, Systematics, and Evolution of the Italian Botanical Society is reported. The field trip was held in the Mount Pennino massif, between Umbria and Marche administrative regions (central Italy). The flora documented for the study area amounts to 413 specific and subspecific taxa (including one hybrid), belonging to 234 genera and 64 families. Thirty-seven taxa are endemic to Italy; 42 are included in the IUCN Red List of the Italian Flora. Only three alien taxa were found. Ten taxa and one hybrid are considered floristic novelties because either new or confirmed for the regional flora of Umbria and/or Marche. Particularly, 6 taxa are new and 4 are confirmed for Umbria; one taxon and one hybrid are new for Marche.
["Central Apennines"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Vascular flora of the isthmus of Feniglia (southern Tuscany, Italy)
We studied the vascular flora of the isthmus of Feniglia, a Nature Reserve in southern Tuscany stretching between the Italian Peninsula and Mt. Argentario. Since the nineteenth century, the area has undergone significant environmental modifications due to intensive grazing and deforestation. Later, rehabilitation interventions were carried out, including reforestation and planting of dune species, making it an interesting protected area to study for its botanical aspects. Therefore, we aim to compile the floristic inventory of this distinctive Mediterranean area by integrating old and new data. The checklist comprises 502 specific and subspecific taxa of vascular plants. The life-form spectrum shows a predominance of therophytes, followed by hemicryptophytes. The chorological spectrum highlights the dominance of Mediterranean species, followed by Euromediterranean and Eurasian species. The presence of 15 species of regional importance, 3 species of the Italian red list and 3 Italian endemics (Ornithogalum exscapum Ten., Limonium multiforme Pignatti, Linaria purpurea (L.) Mill.) is noteworthy. Despite the environmental changes undergone in this area, our study reports the presence of remarkable species, including rare ones such as Atriplex littoralis L., Ruppia spiralis L. ex Dumort., and species at their distribution margin in the Italian Peninsula, such as Staphisagria macrosperma Spach, Juncus sorrentinoi Parl. and Maresia nana (DC.) Batt. Additionally the presence of 26 alien species, of which 15 are invasive, 9 naturalized and 2 casual, indicates a relatively low presence of alien species. Notwithstanding the significant environmental changes that the Feniglia isthmus has experienced in the last century and the high tourist pressure during the summer, the presence of the protected area suggested the effectiveness and benefits of such a form of protection for plant diversity.
["Coastal biodiversity"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes the first counts for four subspecies of the Italian endemic Centaurea aplolepa Moretti, i.e. C. aplolepa subsp. aplolepa, C. aplolepa subsp. bertolonii, C. aplolepa subsp. levantina, and C. aplolepa subsp. parvula. In addition, the first chromosome count for an Italian population of Silene canescens (Caryophyllaceae) is provided.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Pleurotus nebrodensis (Basidiomycota), a rare endemic mushroom of Sicily: current and future issues
This paper deals with the basidiomycete Pleurotus nebrodensis, one of the rare examples of endemic fungi in Italy and Europe. After clarifying the taxonomy of this taxon, including a comparison with a species from China misidentified as “Pleurotus nebrodensis”, we describe the characteristics of its natural habitat, and provide a new morphological description and information on its pilot-scale cultivation, current conservation status according to IUCN criteria and conservation strategies. New ITS region sequences were deposited in GenBank. Furthermore, the antibacterial and anti-cancer properties of P. nebrodensis are mentioned, making it a potential medicinal mushroom. Finally, a critical analysis, on a phylogenetic basis, of the Italian production of substrates inoculated with “P. nebrodensis” strains is also included.
["Basidiomycete"]
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records and status changes from casual to naturalized for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Callianthe, Chamaecyparis, Chamaeiris, Cotoneaster, Erigeron, Freesia, Hemerocallis, Juglans, Kalanchoë, Ludwigia, Nassella, Paulownia, Physocarpus, Pistia, Saccharum, Setaria, and Vachellia. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as supplementary material.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and exclusions to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Anacyclus, Anthyllis, Bolboschoenus, Catapodium, Festuca, Hordeum, Lavandula, Ophrys, Pseudopodospermum, Rosa, Sorbus and Spergula. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Chromosome numbers for the Italian flora: 13
In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes the first count for Dianthus carthusianorum subsp. tenorei, Helosciadium nodiflorum, Hieracium hypochoeroides subsp. cilentanum, H. lesimanum, H. scopolioides, H. terraccianoi. In addition, first Italian counts for Crupina vulgaris, Damasonium alisma, and Illecebrum verticillatum are reported.
["Caryophyllaceae"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

﻿Notulae to the Italian native vascular flora: 16
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and exclusions to the Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as supplementary material.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Notulae to the Italian alien vascular flora: 16
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records and status changes from casual to naturalized for Italy or for Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as supplementary material.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Contribution to the floristic knowledge of Lipari and Panarea Islands (Sicilia, Italy)
The inventory of the taxa collected in 2022 during the annual field trip of the Working Group for Floristics, Systematics and Evolution of the Italian Botanical Society is reported. The field trip was held from 19th to 22th April in the islands of Lipari and Panarea (Aeolian Islands, Sicilia). Overall, 1,664 herbarium specimens were deposited in public and private herbaria. The flora documented for the studied area amounts to 386 specific and subspecific taxa, belonging to 241 genera and 74 families. Centaurea aeolica, Helichrysum litoreum (Asteraceae), and Dianthus rupicola subsp. aeolicus (Caryophyllaceae) were the only three Italian endemics found in the study area, whereas 48 alien taxa were recorded. Dimorphotheca ecklonis (Asteraceae), Nassella tenuissima (Poaceae), Solanum torvum (Solanaceae), and Viola wittrockiana (Violaceae) are casual alien species new to Sicilia, whereas Oenothera odorata (Onagraceae) is a new naturalized alien species for the Italian vascular flora.
["Aeolian islands"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

﻿Itineraries of the Working Group for Vegetation Science of the Italian Botanical Society – 1 (2022): Excursion to the Egadi Islands, Mount San Giuliano and Mount Cofano (Trapani, western Sicily, Italy)
The results of the annual excursion of the Working Group for Vegetation Science of the Italian Botanical Society, held in the Egadi Islands, Mount San Giuliano and Mount Cofano (W Sicily) on April 23–27 2022, are presented. This paper includes: (1) general information on the visited sites; (2) geology and geomorphology; (3) climatology and bioclimatology with tables of climatic data; (4) description of the following five geobotanical itineraries – accompanied by 29 original vegetation relevés and 11 synthetic relevés, proceeding from different bibliographic references: (a) Mount San Giuliano; (b) Marettimo Island: coastal and sub-coastal stretch of the southern part, between Punta Bassana and Contrada Chiappera; (c) Marettimo Island: Case Romane, Mount Pizzo Falcone and the north-western coastal stretch; (d) Island of Levanzo; (e) Mount Cofano – with catenal pictograms of the vegetation, surveys and description of the plant communities and related syntaxonomic scheme; (5) list of the surveyed plant taxa, collected specimens and herbaria in which they are deposited. A new syntaxon is also described (Catapodio pauciflori-Moraeetum sisyrinchii ass. nova), referring to an ephemeral dry grassland located along the north-western coastal stretch of Marettimo. The new association is framed in the Plantagini-Catapodion balearici, alliance of the Stipo-Bupleuretalia semicompositi order of the class Stipo-Trachynietea distachyae (order Stipo-Bupleuretalia semicompositi, alliance Plantagini-Catapodion balearici). An original synoptic table, regarding 17 different plant communities with high frequency of Moraea sisyrinchium, provides a comparative framework of the new association with allied vegetation units so far described throughout the Mediterranean region. Syntaxonomical and nomenclatural remarks regarding the Mediterranean vegetation occurring in this territory are also given throughout the text. Some floristic updates for the study sites are also reported, including the discovery for the first time in Sicily of Lysimachia loeflingii.
["Egadi Island"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿The Fucales (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae) of the Island of Pantelleria (Sicily Channel, Mediterranean Sea): a new contribution
In the past, only a few studies were carried out on the marine vegetation of the Island of Pantelleria, reporting a high level of biodiversity in this island. However, the most recent study, performed about 20 years ago, documented a total loss of Fucales below ca. 12 m of depth and their substitution with morphologically simpler species. In the present study, the current presence and distribution of Cystoseira s.l. and Sargassum around the Island of Pantelleria were assessed, comparing the current data with the previous studies on the marine vegetation of this island. Through monitoring activities (both snorkelling and scuba diving), 19 taxa were recorded: seven belonging to Cystoseira, six to Ericaria, four to Gongolaria, and two to Sargassum. Comparing these data with the previous studies, it was highlighted that most of the species previously reported are still present on the island. Moreover, approximately 20 years after their documented disappearance, deep-water species such as C. foeniculacea f. latiramosa, G. elegans, G. montagnei, G. montagnei v. compressa and Sargassum cf. acinarium were recorded during this study, suggesting a natural recovery for these Fucales. We recommend that, in order to guarantee a long-term conservation of these fucalean populations, it would be useful to establish a marine protected area in the Island of Pantelleria.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿Spontaneous vascular flora of the historical monumental cemetery of Modena (N-Italy)
The first floristic study of the historical monumental cemetery of San Cataldo in Modena (N-Italy) is presented. The research was performed in the period 2019–2022, considering only spontaneous individuals growing within the historical area (4.8 ha). A total of 266 taxa (species and subspecies) was found, of which 1 new for the flora of Italy (Malus × robusta ‘John Downie’), 2 new for the administrative region of Emilia-Romagna (Calocedrus decurrens and Salvia haematodes) and 1 new for the province of Modena (Epilobium ciliatum). Therophytes prevail (37.6%), followed by hemicryptophytes (31.6%), phanerophytes (16.2%) and geophytes (11.7%). The chorological spectrum is dominated by Eurasian species (32.0%), followed by Mediterranean (26.3%), Cosmopolitan (24.8%), Boreal (6%) and N-American (4.5%) ones. Allochthonous species are 16.5% of the list, with neophytes always prevailing over archaeophytes (28 vs. 9 species). Invasive species are 67.8% of the neophytes; on a regional scale they are 1.5% of the list. Protected species are 2.6% of the total; 3 of them are internationally protected and 2 are included in the red list of Italian flora. This study confirms the great biological richness of urban environments and the potential of historical cemeteries as a refugium for the conservation of species that have become rare, endangered or infrequent at a regional or national level, because of the heavy human impact on the territory.
["Allochthonous species"]

﻿Notulae to the Italian native vascular flora: 15
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and exclusions to the Italian administrative regions. New combinations in the genera Pilosella and Roemeria are proposed. Furthermore, the name Papaver siculum is lectotypified. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Notulae to the Italian alien vascular flora: 15
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions for Italy or for Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as Suppl. material 1.

﻿First record of Rhizomatophora aegopodioides (Apiaceae) in Italy
The occurrence of Rhizomatophora aegopodioides, a species distributed in the Balkan Peninsula, Greece, southern Caucasus, Turkey and southern Russia, is reported here for the first time in Italy. It was discovered in Calabria (southern Italy) in the Argentino River Valley and along the Abatemarco River (municipality of Cosenza), localities partly included within the Pollino National Park. Information about taxonomy, nomenclature, habitat, phytosociology and distribution of this species in Italy are provided.
["Apennine"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Changes in the flora of Lobbia Alta, a peak of the Adamello-Presanella Alps (Trento, Italy) between 1935 and 2021
Global warming is causing an enrichment of summit flora worldwide. This article presents the case of a peak in the southeastern Alps (Lobbia Alta, 3,196 m a.s.l., Adamello, Trento, Italy), for which a complete list of tracheophytes dating back to 1935 was available. As this peak is well delimited by glaciers and vertical cliffs, it has been possible to faithfully repeat this floristic inventory. We made three surveys, in 1991, 2006 and 2021, exploring the whole area. It resulted that in 86 years the species present on this peak have tripled, increasing from 17 to 51, with an acceleration in recent years. The biological forms have increased from two to six. The average temperature and the nutritional indexes according to Ellenberg have increased as well. We found that as many as six species reach their elevation record in the Alps on the Lobbia Alta, suggesting that this area is particularly prone to species ascension. Particularly interesting is the discovery of a 35 cm-tall specimen of Larix decidua at 3,130 m a.s.l., which seems to be the elevational record of the species.
["Climate change"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

﻿Epimedium alpinum subsp. albanicum new subspecies for the flora of Kosovo
This paperwork provides data on the endemic taxa Epimedium alpinum subsp. albanicum Kit Tan, Shuka & Hallaçi, which is observed and identified for the first time for the territory of Kosovo. This taxon was found in Qafë Morine (Pass of Morina) within the locality of Devë, and Qafë Prush Municipality of Gjakova, on the road toward the border with Albania. Epimedium alpinum subsp. albanicum, is found in serpentine substrates which has a limited extent of presence in the investigated areas. This research includes the presence, description and distribution of this new taxa for the flora of Kosovo.
["endemic"]
["Medicinal Plant Pharmacodynamics Research", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

﻿Notulae to the Italian native vascular flora: 14
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and status changes to the Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Notulae to the Italian alien vascular flora: 14
In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and status changes for Italy or for Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as Suppl. material 1.

﻿Candolleomyces cladii-marisci (Psathyrellaceae), a new combination
["fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

﻿Global and Regional IUCN Red List Assessments: 14
In this contribution, the conservation status assessment of three vascular plants according to IUCN categories and criteria are presented. It includes the assessment of Allium ravenii F.O.Khass., Shomuradov & Kadyrov and Centaurea seguenzae (Lacaita) Brullo, Marcenò & Siracusa at global level and Haloxylon persicum Bunge ex Boiss. & Buhse at regional level.

﻿Remarks on the exotic flora of Capo Mortola (Ventimiglia, northern Italy) and its changes over time
In this study, we compared current data and data of the census made in the 1990s related to the vascular flora of Capo Mortola (Ventimiglia, Italy), considering 270 taxa not dependent on crop management. The current status reported 198 alien species: 5 invasive, 65 naturalized 75 casual, 38 occurring as casual in human-dominated systems, but without direct intervention by humans and not close to parent plant, 15 occurring as casual alien, but still with some uncertainties for a definitive classification, and plus 3 cryptogenic and 1 eradicated (extinct) taxa, while in 1996 were 229 species: 87 naturalized and 142 adventitious (casual). Of these, 40 taxa show an increasing trend and 41 a decreasing or disappearing trend. If we consider the wild areas of Capo Mortola, 10 taxa are new to the Italian flora (7 casual and 3 naturalized) while 13 are new to the Ligurian flora only (all casual). If we also consider the neglected areas of the Botanical Gardens, 18 new casual species for the Italian flora and 10 for the Ligurian one would be added. In addition, 9 status changes are proposed on a national scale and 17 on a regional scale. An in-depth analysis was conducted on the presence and the local history of a subset of 34 exotic plants, 11 of which are new or have a new status for the Italian flora.
["Exotic taxa"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and exclusions to the Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.

﻿Spring composition of the macroalgal vegetation of a small offshore island in the north-western Mediterranean (Gallinara Island, Ligurian Sea)
Gallinara Island, a small island located 1.5 km off the shore of Liguria (Italy, north-western Mediterranean Sea) was included in a list of proposed Marine Protected Areas (MPA) in the early 90s. Since then, its benthic assemblages have been studied in detail and the main macrophytic communities have been mapped. A detailed assessment of its benthic macroalgal flora, however, has never been made. Gallinara was visited in the course of 5 consecutive years and its macroalgal flora was studied based on collections made by snorkelling and SCUBA diving. Overall, 141 macroalgal taxa were collected and identified (23 Chlorophyta, 94 Rhodophyta, 24 Ochrophyta); 91 of them represent new records for the island. One of the most notable new records is the non-indigenous red alga Womersleyella setacea, previously unreported from the island and widely distributed, particularly on the south-eastern shore. Observations made in the course of the surveys confirm the rarefaction of some large-sized brown algae (particularly Sargassum vulgare) but indicate also that others previously reported as rare (Cystoseira compressa, Dictyopteris polypodioides) are still common on the island.
["Biotic homogenization"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes for Italy or for Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates published elsewhere are provided as Suppl. material 1.

﻿Chromosome numbers for the Italian flora: 12
In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes the first counts for Hieracium glanduliferum s.str. and H. tenuiflorum, counts for two Armeria species endemic to Italy, and for Onopordum illyricum subsp. illyricum. We also present here the first chromosome count of Allium permixtum for Italy, where this species is known for few localities.
["Amaryllidaceae"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes for Italy or for Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates published elsewhere are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Alien speciesfloristic dataItalynomenclature"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes to the Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.

Notes on the distribution, ecology, associated vegetation and conservation status of Gymnadenia (Orchidaceae) in Kosovo
Four species of Gymnadenia are native to Kosovo: G. conopsea, G. frivaldii, G. nigra, and G. odoratissima. In this study, field expedition data, phytosociological relevés, herbarium specimens along with extensive literature sources were used to analyse vegetation and ecological characteristics, habitat types, distributional patterns as well as provide notes on conservation. Gymnadenia conopsea is distributed throughout the country, from lowlands to the alpine belt. It was recorded in various plant communities. Gymnadenia frivaldii grows in the alpine zone of mountains, close to streams and in wet meadows. Its relevés belong to the class Scheuchzerio-Caricetea fuscae. This species is classified as “Near Threatened” (NT) in Kosovo. Gymnadenia nigra grows in subalpine and alpine grassland on preferably calcareous substrate. It has been found in almost all mountains reaching >2000 m a.s.l., and occurs in different plant communities belonging to the class: Elyno-Seslerietea. Gymnadenia odoratissima was recorded from one locality only in Kosovo, on the massif of Maja e Zezë, Sharri Mts. It was growing in degraded beech forest and meadows on silicate bedrock. Its floristically diverse relevés associate with the class: Mulgedio-Aconitetea. Of the four studied species, G. frivaldii deserves more conservation attention because of its fragile populations.
["Flora"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes counts for Centaurea aegusae, Hieracium racemosum subsp. lucanum, H. australe subsp. australe, Lysimachia arvensis subsp. arvensis, Micromeria graeca subsp. graeca, and M. graeca subsp. consentina.
["cytogeography"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Global and Regional IUCN Red List Assessments: 11
In this contribution, the conservation status assessment of three vascular plants according to IUCN categories and criteria is presented. It includes the global assessment of Limonium parvifolium Tineo and Viscaria alpina (L.) G.Don, and the regional assessment of Rhazya stricta Decne. (Iraq).
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Molecular phylogeny and morphology of Pseudobaeospora cyanea
Pseudobaeospora cyanea, a rare basidiomycete belonging to an underinvestigated genus, is currently recorded from only three localities of the Iberian Peninsula. Moreover, to date no sequences of this rare species have been deposited in GenBank. In this paper a new collection from NW Italy is reported with detailed morphological descriptions and iconography. The first ITS and LSU sequences for the species are provided and uploaded to GenBank, and the taxonomic placement of P. cyanea within the genus is discussed.
["Basidiomycota"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes to the Italian administrative regions. A new combination in the genus Pilosella is proposed. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.

Poorly known names authored by Antonio Raimondi
Nine nomenclatural acts by Antonio Raimondi are assessed and commented. These include a new genus, six new species and two new combinations that are absent from or incorrectly cited in major databases. A new combination, Jacaranda acutifolia var. punctata is proposed for an endemic plant from central Peru. Lastly, Jacaranda punctata Raimondi and Puya raimondii Harms are neotypified and lectotypified, respectively.
["Andean flora"]
["Psidium guajava Extracts and Applications", "Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Non-indigenous macroalgal species in coralligenous habitats of the Marine Protected Area Isole Ciclopi (Sicily, Italy)
Biological invasions are considered one of the main threats for biodiversity. In the last decades, more than 60 macroalgae have been introduced in the Mediterranean Sea, causing serious problems in coastal areas. Nevertheless, the impacts of alien macroalgae in deep subtidal systems have been poorly studied, especially in the coralligenous habitats of the eastern coast of Sicily (Italy). Therefore, within the framework of the programme “Progetto Operativo di Monitoraggio (P.O.M.)” of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), the aim of the present study was to gain knowledge on the alien macroalgae present in coralligenous habitats of the Marine Protected Area (MPA) Isole Ciclopi, along the Ionian coast of Sicily. By Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) videos and destructive samples analysed in the laboratory, five alien species were identified: Caulerpa cylindracea, Antithamnion amphigeneum, Asparagopsis armata, Bonnemaisonia hamifera, and Lophocladia lallemandii. Since A. amphigeneum was previously reported only in the western Mediterranean and Adriatic Sea, the present report represents the first record of this species in the eastern Mediterranean. The ROV surveys showed that the alien species do not have a high coverage and do not appear to be invasive in the coralligenous area of the MPA. Since ocean temperatures are predicted to increase as climate change continues and alien species are favoured by warming of the Mediterranean Sea, the risk of biotic homogenisation caused by the spread of alien species is realistic. Therefore, further studies are needed to assess the incidence and invasiveness of alien species in phytobenthic assemblages of coralligenous in the MPA.
["Coralligenous"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Remnants of naturalness in a reclaimed land of central Italy
Wetlands are among the most fragile habitats on Earth and have often undergone major environmental changes. As a study case in this context, the present work aims at increasing the floristic knowledge of a reclaimed land now turned into an agricultural lowland with scarce patches of natural habitats. The study area is named Piana di Rosia, and it is located in southern Tuscany (Italy). The compiled checklist consists of 451 specific and subspecific taxa of vascular plants. The life-form spectrum shows a predominance of hemicryptophytes, followed by therophytes. The chorological spectrum highlights a co-dominance of Euri-Mediterranean and Eurasian species along with many widely distributed species. The checklist includes seven species of conservation concern, three Italian endemics (Crocus etruscus Parl., Polygala vulgaris L. subsp. valdarnensis (Fiori) Arrigoni, and Scabiosa uniseta Savi), 41 alien species, 21 segetal species, and 11 aquatic macrophytes of which five helophytes and six hydrophytes. This study suggests that irreversible land-use changes in wetlands can lead towards a simplification of the flora. However, despite the deep transformations that the former wetland has undergone, the presence of some aquatic and protected taxa is interesting. From a conservation point of view, the natural value of this agricultural area could be enhanced and its current management partly reconsidered, thus preserving the remnants of naturalness present.
["Agroecosystem"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Anatomical characteristics of fossil wood collected from the Manchar Formation (Miocene), Thano Bula Khan, Sindh, Pakistan
The characterization of petrified wood provides valuable information about paleoclimatology and geological history and helps to reconstruct the past forest flora of different parts of the earth. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the anatomical characteristics of fossil wood of the Miocene age collected from the Manchar Formation exposed at Thano Bula Khan, Sindh, Pakistan. In order to carry out a detailed anatomical investigation, three-dimensional sections were prepared using a petrotome. The microscopic analysis allowed us to study vessel size and arrangement, wood parenchyma, fibers, and xylem rays. Based on the comparison between recent and fossil wood, we concluded that the investigated characters are comparable with those of the genus Atalantia Corrêa of the Rutaceae family. Therefore, it was named as Atalantioxylon thanobolensis sp. nov. with reference to the location of Thano Bula Khan from which the fossil wood was collected.
["Atalantioxylon thanobolensis sp. nov. Rutaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

In this contribution, new chromosome data regarding two taxonomically critical genera of the Italian flora, namely Plantago and Sesleria, are presented. All the specimens analysed in this paper were collected in the Italian territory and include three chromosome counts for Plantago (P. albicans, P. crassifolia, and P. subulata) and two counts for Sesleria (S. caerulea and S. nitida).
["Cytogeography"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Contribution to the floristic knowledge of Sillaro, Santerno, and Senio high valleys (Toscana, Italy)
The inventory of the taxa collected during the annual field trip of the working group for Floristics, Systematics and Evolution of the Italian Botanical Society is reported. The field trip was held in 2019 along the Sillaro, Santerno, and Senio high valleys located in Toscana (central Italy). The flora documented for the studied area amounts to 492 specific and subspecific taxa (including five hybrids), belonging to 254 genera and 77 families. Bromopsis caprina, Ophrys appennina, O. classica, Polygala flavescens subsp. flavescens, and Pulmonaria vallarsae subsp. apennina were the only five Italian endemics found in the study area, whereas 28 alien taxa were detected. Finally, nine taxa (seven native and two alien) have to be considered as new records for the regional flora of Toscana.

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Artemisia, Chaetonychia, Cirsium, Cynanchum, Genista, Hieracium, Iberis, Melica, Misopates, Myosotis, Thalictrum, Trifolium, Utricularia, Veronica, and Vicia. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as supplementary material.

Bryophyte diversity hotspot: the Marmore Waterfalls Regional Park (Umbria, central Italy)
A study of the bryophyte of Marmore Waterfall Natural Park a very peculiar territory for its geological, biogeographical and bioclimatic traits, was carried out. The reported data were collected in the valley area of ‘Parco Fluviale del Nera’ Regional Park, where the waters are flowing and the humidity of the rocks is oozing. Research led to the identification of 101 taxa of bryophytes (21 liverworts and 80 mosses), among which two liverwort and 10 moss species are new records for the Umbria region, while four are confirmed. The study offers new outcomes on neglected aspects of the flora of central Italy and represents a considerable improvement of the floristic, biogeographical and ecological understanding of its bryophytic component. Additionally, the area turn out to be significant from the conservation point of view both nationally and internationally considering that it harbours high diversity of bryophytes species among which many rare, threatened and interesting species occur. Eighteen species of conservation interest in Italy are recorded during the latest investigation (all in category NT – near threatened). Additionally two species that are considered data deficient in Italy are present in the researched area (Conocephalum salebrosum and Fissidens curvatus). Also, there is a small populations of a species vulnerable (Marchantia paleacea), endangered (Bryum calophyllum) and data deficient (Fissidens curvatus and Barbula bolleana) in European scale.
["Bryophyte"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Anthyllis cytisoides L. (Fabaceae), new to the Italian native flora
We present the first finding of Anthyllis cytisoides L. in Italy. This western Mediterranean woody species was found close to the coastline on the southwest side of Mt. Argentario in southern Tuscany, on limestone rocks within a xerophytic garrigue community of the Erico multiflorae-Rosmarinetum officinali association. A description of the plant is given along with an original iconography and photos taken in the field. The reasons for considering this population of natural origin are briefly discussed, along with the possible causes of its wide disjunction from the rest of the species range.
["disjunct populations"]

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes counts from six populations of three taxa within the genus Pulmonaria, two of which are endemic to Italy (P. vallarsae subsp. apennina and P. vallarsae subsp. vallarsae); the other is the widespread European P. officinalis. In addition, two counts from Potentilla detommasii and Stachys thirkei, two eastern Mediterranean species, are also reported.
["cytogeography"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

An updated checklist of the vascular flora of Montagna di Torricchio State Nature Reserve (Marche, Italy)
This study aims to increase floristic knowledge of Marche by means of a survey in the Montagna di Torricchio State Nature Reserve (central Italy). The Reserve, located in the central Apennines, covers about 3.2 km2 at altitudes ranging from 820 to 1,491 m a.s.l. It has been owned and managed as a strict reserve by the University of Camerino since 1970: all the anthropic activities ceased about 50 years ago, except for a minimal area where mowing and cattle grazing are still allowed. The floristic list consists of 789 specific and subspecific taxa belonging to 81 families and 352 genera. Two species are new for Italy (Taraxacum calocarpum and T. pulchrifolium) and 14 for Marche regional flora. Compared to previous floristic studies, we found 127 more taxa but we showed a certain stability in the life-form spectrum, suggesting limited effects of dynamic processes related to climate and land-use changes. The negligible number of alien species (11) is probably related to the limitations to anthropic activities in the Reserve. The occurrence of taxa never recorded for Italy and Marche highlights the floristic value of the Reserve for species conservation in the central Apennines.
["Central Apennines"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes to the Italian administrative regions. Two new combinations are proposed. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes for Italy or for Italian administrative regions. Furthermore, three new combinations are proposed. Nomenclatural and distribution updates published elsewhere are provided as Suppl. material 1.

Contribution to the bryological knowledge of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines (Northern Italy)
The inventory of the bryophytes collected during the annual excursion of the Working Group for Bryology of the Italian Botanical Society is reported. This excursion was held in 2018 on the northern slope of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines National Park, in the Administrative Region of Emilia-Romagna. The field work led to the finding of 113 taxa (24 liverworts and 89 mosses), including eight new records and seven confirmations for this Region. The occurrence of rare taxa for Italy (Scapania uliginosa, Rhizomnium pseudopunctatum, Racomitrium fasciculare, Scorpidium cossonii, Grimmia lisae, Orthotrichum pulchellum) is highlighted.
["Bryophytes"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Assessment of the ecological structure of Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile on the northern coast of Lazio, Italy (central Tyrrhenian, Mediterranean)
The ecological structure of Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile meadows was evaluated on the northern coast of Lazio, Italy (central Tyrrhenian, Mediterranean sea). This is an infra-littoral zone with a wide range of anthropogenic activities and high geo-morphological variability, which reflects heterogeneity in shoot density, leaf morphology and biomass in fragmented patches. Genetic variability in populations corresponds to the formation of 3 sub-clusters, in the diverse impacted zones (north, centre and south), being correlated to the geographical distance between sites. AMOVA estimated a high genetic variation showing 43.05% individual differences within populations with a marked differentiation among the populations (56.9%) indicated by Fst value (0.57). These results revealed the role of the genetic structure of seagrasses for determining selectivity of fragmented habitat, in response to natural drivers. They showed that site-specific self-recruitment is related to biodiversity capacity and to the geo-morphological characteristic of the coast.
["AMOVA"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes three chromosome counts from two taxa endemic to Southern Italy (Centaurea subtilis and Onobrychis alba subsp. echinata) and one species (Poa ligulata) occurring in Italy with only one recently discovered population.
["Abruzzo"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Ajuga, Chamaemelum, Clematis, Convolvulus, Cytisus, Deschampsia, Eleocharis, Epipactis, Euphorbia, Groenlandia, Hedera, Hieracium, Hydrocharis, Jacobaea, Juncus, Klasea, Lagurus, Leersia, Linum, Nerium, Onopordum, Persicaria, Phlomis, Polypogon, Potamogeton, Securigera, Sedum, Soleirolia, Stachys, Umbilicus, Valerianella, and Vinca. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes for Italy or for Italian administrative regions of taxa in the genera Bunias, Calocedrus, Calycanthus, Celosia, Clerodendrum, Convolvulus, Crassula, Cyclamen, Datura, Dicliptera, Eragrostis, Erigeron, Gamochaeta, Gazania, Impatiens, Kolkwitzia, Leucaena, Ludwigia, Medicago, Muscari, Nigella, Oenothera, Opuntia, Paulownia, Petroselinum, Phyllostachys, Physalis, Pseudosasa, Quercus, Reynoutria, Roldana, Saccharum, Sedum, Semiarundinaria, Senecio, Sisyrinchium, Solanum, Sporobolus, Tulipa, Vachellia, Verbena, and Youngia. Nomenclatural and distribution updates published elsewhere are provided as Suppl. material 1.

Light intensity affects leaf morphology in a wild population of Adenostyles alliariae (Asteraceae)
Low light conditions can impose environmental stress on plants, and plants often respond adaptively by increasing their leaf area. Light stress on plants can also result in developmental instability, which can manifest as increased fluctuating asymmetry in leaves or other organs. The relationship between light conditions and fluctuating asymmetry has been documented in experimental populations, but has been less frequently observed in the wild. Here, we studied how leaf surface area and fluctuating asymmetry correlate with light intensity in a wild population of Adenostyles alliariae (Asteraceae). We found strong evidence that leaf surface area increases and weak evidence that fluctuating asymmetry increases as light intensity decreases. Our results help to elucidate the relationship between light stress and developmental instability under naturally occurring conditions.
["fluctuating asymmetry"]
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Leaf Properties and Growth Measurement", "Seed and Plant Biochemistry"]

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes a total of 105 chromosome counts for three populations of Pulmonaria vallarsae A.Kern. subsp. apennina (Cristof. & Puppi) Cecchi & Selvi and for three populations of P. hirta L.
["cytogeography"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases"]

Epiphytic lichens of the sacred natural site “Bosco di Sant’Antonio” (Majella National Park – Abruzzo)
Sacred Natural Sites are relevant for biodiversity conservation, as in the case of forest sites that, across centuries, developed old growth structures and are now crucial for the conservation of epiphytic lichens and other specialized forest organisms. In this study, we investigated the epiphytic lichen flora of a small forest patch included in the Majella National Park (Abruzzo), whose old growth features and naturalness reflect its long lasting spiritual role that perfectly fits with the concept of Sacred Natural Site. Results revealed that the “Bosco di Sant’Antonio” hosts a rich and interesting epiphytic lichen flora, thus indicating the potential of this Sacred Natural Site for lichen conservation. Fifty-six species were found including two species newly recorded in Abruzzo, two red-listed species, and the sensitive species Lobaria pulmonaria. This study corroborates the hypothesis that sacred forest sites are relevant for the conservation of specialized epiphytic lichens. In particular, in the Italian forest landscape where old-growth stands are practically absent, sacred forest sites may provide unique old-growth structures and buffer anthropogenic disturbance.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and status changes for Italy or for Italian administrative regions of taxa in the genera Abies, Actinidia, Aloe, Amaryllis, Anredera, Arctotheca, Bidens, Cardiospermum, Celosia, Commelina, Cotoneaster, Cyclamen, Eclipta, Euphorbia, Grevillea, Hedera, Hibiscus, Impatiens, Juglans, Kalanchoe, Koelreuteria, Lindernia, Melinis, Myriophyllum, Nandina, Nicotiana, Oenothera, Oxalis, Parthenocissus, Phoenix, Phyllanthus, Physalis, Plumbago, Pteris, Quercus, Setaria, Symphytum, Tagetes, and Washingtonia. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere are provided as Suppl. material 1.

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations and status changes to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Acer, Alchemilla, Andrachne, Bromus, Clinopodium, Colchicum, Damasonium, Erodium, Festuca, Hieracium, Hyparrhenia, Ipomoea, Linaria, Lolium, Narcissus, Ranunculus, Sisymbrium, Stipa, Valerianella, Vicia, and Zannichellia. New combinations in the genus Ziziphora (Z. sardoa and Z. corsica) and the new subspecies Ulmus minor susbp. canescens are proposed. Furthermore, the name Calamintha alpina var. sardoa is here lectotypified. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.
["Floristic data"]

Notulae to the Italian flora of algae, bryophytes, fungi and lichens: 7
In this contribution, new data concerning algae, bryophytes, fungi, and lichens of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records and confirmations for the algae genus Chara, the bryophyte genera Cephalozia, Conardia, Conocephalum, Didymodon, Sphagnum, Tetraplodon, and Tortula, the fungal genera Endophyllum, Gymnosporangium, Microbotryum, Phragmidium, and Pluteus, and the lichen genera Candelariella, Cladonia, Flavoplaca, Lichenothelia, Peltigera, Placolecis, Rinodina, Scytinium, and Solenopsora.
["Ascomycota"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the vascular flora of Miniera di Murlo area (southern Tuscany, Italy)
This work aims to increase the floristic knowledge of southern Tuscany by means of a floristic investigation which took place in the Miniera di Murlo (southern Tuscany, Italy). The study area, located in the province of Siena, has an extension of 2.26 km2 and hosts a heterogeneity of habitats like rocky outcrops, woodlands, meadows and riparian formations. The prevalent geological type is an acidic sedimentary rock known as diaspri formation (jasper). The checklist of vascular flora consists of 501 taxa and includes six endemics and 13 alien species, among which Vitis labrusca is a newly-found species for the Province of Siena along with the native Rosa balsamica and Rosa squarrosa. The most interesting species, such as Anthoxanthum aristatum, Gagea bohemica, Paragymnopteris marantae, Saxifraga granulata, and Teesdalia coronopifolia, are found on acidic rocks. Species of the Italian Red List, such as Ruscus aculeatus, and species of Regional conservation interest, such as Centaurea aplolepa subsp. carueliana, Ervilia loiseleurii, and Vicia nigricans, were recorded. The chorological spectrum reveals a dominance of Mediterranean species indicating warm climate conditions and mild winters whereas the life-form spectrum shows a slight dominance of hemicryptophytes followed by therophytes. However, a clear dominance of one life-form type over the other is lacking, since the acidic and dry rocky substrate partially compensates for the humidity provided by the stream. This study highlights the relevant floristic value of the Miniera di Murlo area and supports the possible creation of a protected area or its inclusion in the adjacent one.
["Central Italy"]

Lathyro asphodeloidis-Klaseetum lycopifoliae, a new plant association in the alliance Cynosurion cristati Tüxen, 1947 in Central Apennines
This study presents a new plant association discovered in the Central Apennines and named Lathyro asphodeloidis-Klaseetum lycopifoliae. It consists of a semi-natural meadow characterized by the co-dominance of two rare taxa, Klasea lycopifolia and Lathyrus pannonicus subsp. asphodeloides, occurring in Italy in only a few localities in the Central and Northen Apennines. The association was discovered on the Altopiano delle Rocche high plateau in the province of L’Aquila (Abruzzo region, Italy). Multivariate analysis of the relevés shows two floristic and ecological aspects, corresponding to two different subassociations: festucetosum circummediterraneae, with elements from the Festuco-Brometea class, growing in the outer portions of the plateau, and narcissetosum poëtici, corresponding to the most typical aspect and occupying the central part of the plateau, differentiated by meso-hygrophilous species of the Molinietalia and Trifolio-Hordeetalia orders. The plant association has great natural value, due to the presence of several rare plant species, and cultural importance in association with the traditional “Narcissus Fest” held each year in May.
["Klasea lycopifolia"]

Contribution to the knowledge of fungal diversity of the Marmore Waterfalls (Umbria, central Italy)
A list of the macrofungi collected from the Marmore Waterfalls (Umbria, Italy) is reported. In particular, a list of basidiomycetes and ascomycetes collected over a period of about ten years was compiled. A total of 125 species belonging to 78 genera, 46 families, and 15 orders were identified. Forty-four species are recorded in Umbria for the first time. Marmore Waterfalls may represent an important area for the conservation of fungal diversity, due to the presence of 34 species matching those included in Red Lists of several European countries.
["Ascomycota"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Notulae to the Italian flora of algae, bryophytes, fungi and lichens: 6
In this contribution, new data concerning bryophytes, fungi, and lichens of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records and confirmations for the bryophyte genera Barbula, Fissidens, Gymnostomum, Jungermannia, Riccia, and Scapania, the fungal genera Hyalopsora and Urocystis and the lichen genera Arthothelium, Chaenotheca, Lepraria, Lobaria, Miriquidica, Parmelia, Rinodina, Solenopsora, Thelopsis and Xanthoparmelia.
["Ascomycota"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

In this contribution, new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes three chromosome counts for Bupleurum baldense Turra, Colchicum lusitanum Brot., and Euphorbia gasparrinii Boiss. subsp. gasparrinii.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions, and status changes for Italy or for Italian administrative regions of taxa in the genera Acalypha, Acer, Canna, Cardamine, Cedrus, Chlorophytum, Citrus, Cyperus, Epilobium, Eucalyptus, Euphorbia, Gamochaeta, Hesperocyparis, Heteranthera, Lemna, Ligustrum, Lycium, Nassella, Nothoscordum, Oenothera, Osteospermum, Paspalum, Pontederia, Romulea, Rudbeckia, Salvia, Sesbania, Setaria, Sicyos, Styphnolobium, Symphyotrichum, and Tradescantia. Nomenclature and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as supplementary material.

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations and status changes to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Alchemilla, Arundo, Bupleurum, Clematis, Clinopodium, Cota, Crassula, Cytisus, Euphorbia, Hieracium, Isoëtes, Lamium, Leontodon, Linaria, Lychnis, Middendorfia, Ophrys, Philadelphus, Pinus, Sagina, Sedum, Taeniatherum, Tofieldia, Triticum, Veronica, and Vicia. Nomenclature and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as supplementary material.
["Floristic data"]

Rediscovery of Crocus biflorus var. estriatus (Iridaceae) and its taxonomic characterisation
The Italian endemic Crocus biflorus usually shows white or lilac flowers with three-to-five striking violet longitudinal stripes on the outer tepals, but unstriped plants were recorded in the past. These plants were originally described as C. annulatus subvar. estriatus, and subsequently recombined as a variety of C. biflorus. The rediscovery of such plants in Toscana gave us the opportunity to clarify their systematic relationships, so that we typified the name, and performed karyological and ITS analyses. These plants share the same chromosome number (2n = 2x = 8) and ITS sequence with C. biflorus s. str.
["Chromosome number"]
["Saffron Plant Research Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records and confirmations to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Allium, Arabis, Campanula, Centaurea, Chaerophyllum, Crocus, Dactylis, Dianthus, Festuca, Galanthus, Helianthemum, Lysimachia, Milium, Pteris, and Quercus. Nomenclature and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as supplementary material.
["Floristic data"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, and confirmations for Italy or for Italian administrative regions of taxa in the genera Albizia, Anredera, Bougainvillea, Cardamine, Cenchrus, Cephalaria, Ceratochloa, Cytisus, Datura, Delosperma, Euonymus, Freesia, Hylotelephium, Lantana, Musa, Physalis, Rotala, Styphnolobium, Trachycarpus, and Tradescantia. Nomenclature and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as supplementary material.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Notulae to the Italian flora of algae, bryophytes, fungi and lichens: 5
In this contribution, new data concerning bryophytes, fungi, and lichens of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records and confirmations for the bryophyte genera Diplophyllum and Ptychostomum, the fungal genera Arrhenia, Gymnosporangium, and Sporidesmium and the lichen genera Arthonia, Coenogonium, Flavoplaca, Gyalolechia, Parmotrema, Peltigera, Pterygiopsis, Squamarina, Tornabea, and Waynea.
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning bryophytes, fungi and lichens of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records and confirmations for the bryophyte genera Campylopus, Paludella, Tortula, and Conocephalum, the fungal genera Agonimia, Buelliella, Entorrhiza, Filicupula, Poronia, and Sporisorium, the lichen genera Cladonia, Dibaeis, Lasallia, and Rhizocarpon.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

In this contribution new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, exclusion, extinction and confirmations to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Androsace, Artemisia, Fragaria, Melampyrum, Myosotis, Petrorhagia, Phillyrea, Rosa, Rumex, Spiranthes, Trifolium, and Vicia. Furthermore, a new combination in the genus Omalotheca is proposed.

In this contribution new chromosome data obtained on material collected in Italy are presented. It includes 9 chromosome counts for Polygala (Polygalaceae), Dianthus and Silene (Caryophyllaceae).
["Cytogeography"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the Italian distribution of alien vascular flora are presented. It includes new records and exclusions for Italy or for Italian administrative regions of taxa in the genera Cedrus, Cenchrus, Citrus, Cyrtomium, Diospyros, Elaeagnus, Erigeron, Iris, Oenothera, Pavonia, Phytolacca, Styphnolobium, and Verbena. Furthermore, a new combination in the genus Amaranthus is proposed.

Population structure of Erythronium dens-canis L. (Liliaceae) in the northern Apennines (Italy)
Relationships between age, time of emergence, and leaf traits of individuals were investigated in a population of Erythronium dens-canis L. in a hilly woodland area named Farneto-C, near Bologna, Italy. In 2015, 591 individuals were counted, 19 of which were flowering (FLO), 442 were mature non-flowering (MNF) and 130 were juveniles (JUV). FLO emerged at the end of February, whereas most MNF and JUV appeared at the middle and end of March, respectively. The mean aboveground survivorship of MNF was 24 days. Most MNF had large, oval to shield-shaped leaves with red-brown mottling, whereas most JUV leaves were smaller, usually oblong or lanceolate with a rough maculation or none. These results suggest that both timing of emergence and leaf shape are related to the age of the bulb. Based on leaf background, plants were classified into three major types with a likely genetic basis in the 2015 and 2016 surveys (the latter limited to FLO): a dominant silvery type (SLV, 62–74%), silvery-and-green type (S&G, 23–32%), and a less frequent vivid-green type (GRN, 3–5%). Several subtypes were also identified, but only one was dominant within each type. The three basic patterns appear to be phenotypically stable and no differences between MNF and FLO were found; once the juvenile stage has passed, each plant produces the same leaf type year after year. In addition, our results on the discoloration time-course of red-brown spots suggest that the functional role of leaf mottling is not related to pollinator attraction. Instead, leaf mottling could play a role in camouflage against herbivores.The observed massive grazing on flowers, more than leaves, could explain why the frequency of mature individuals was biased towards the non-flowering ones.
["demography"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the Italian distribution of alien vascular flora are presented. It includes new records, exclusions, confirmations, and status changes for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Acer, Amaranthus, Araujia, Aubrieta, Avena, Bidens, Calycanthus, Celtis, Elaeagnus, Eragrostis, Euonymus, Fallopia, Ficus, Hedera, Lantana, Ligustrum, Ludwigia, Morus, Oenothera, Opuntia, Oxalis, Parkinsonia, Paspalum, Paulownia, Platycladus, Pleuropterus, Rumex, Salvia, Senecio, Setaria, Syagrus, Tradescantia, Trifolium and Yucca. Furthermore, a new combination in the genus Vicia is proposed.

Notulae to the Italian flora of algae, bryophytes, fungi and lichens: 3
In this contribution, new data concerning bryophytes, fungi and lichens and of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records and confirmations for the bryophyte genera Dicranodontium, Fontinalis, Lophocoleaand Riccia, the fungal genus Diplolaeviopsis, the lichen genera Agonimia, Cladonia, Protoparmelia, Rhizocarpon, and Scytinium.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

In this contribution new data concerning the Italian distribution of native vascular flora are presented. It includes new records, exclusions, and confirmations to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Arctostaphylos, Artemisia, Buglossoides, Convolvulus, Crocus, Damasonium, Epipogium, Ficaria, Filago, Genista, Heptaptera, Heracleum, Heteropogon, Hieracium, Myosotis, Ononis, Papaver, Pilosella, Polygonum, Pulmonaria, Scorzonera, Silene, Trifolium, Vicia and Viola.

In this contribution, new data concerning the Italian distribution of alien vascular flora are presented. It includes new records, exclusions and confirmations for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Ageratum, Aster, Buddleja, Cedrus, Centranthus, Cephalotaxus, Clerodendrum, Cotoneaster, Cyperus, Honorius, Lantana, Ligustrum, Morus, Muscari, Oenothera, Opuntia, Platycladus, Plumbago, Pseudotsuga, Sedum, Sporobolus, Stachys, Ulmus and Yucca. A nomen novum, Stachys talbotii, is proposed as a replacement name for Sideritis purpurea.

In this contribution, new data concerning red algae, lichens and bryophytes of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records and confirmations for the algal genus Grateloupia, the bryophyte genus Didymodon, and the lichen genera Buellia, Cladonia, Letharia, Pertusaria, and Pyrenula.
["Bryidae"]

Distribution and taxonomy of the Italian clovers belonging to Trifolium sect. Vesicastrum subsect. Mystillus (Fabaceae)
In this paper, we focused our attention on the taxonomy and distribution in Italy of taxa belonging to Trifolium sect. Vesicastrum subsect. Mystillus. A short description of these closely related clovers, based on the study of fresh plant material, revision of herbarium specimens, and analysis of the relevant literature, is provided. Diagnostic features were highlighted by means of high-resolution digital images and, accordingly, an identification key is given. Trifolium spumosum, T. vesiculosum, T. mutabile and T. setiferum are reported to be distributed throughout Italy. We have updated the Italian distribution of the first three species by providing new occurrences from Tuscany, Umbria, Campania, Basilicata, and Calabria and by correcting previous references. The current presence of T. multistriatum in southern Italy is confirmed by our study, while T. setiferum must be excluded from the flora of Sicily. The study resulted in five new regional occurrences and 16 changes of presence status. Finally, intermediate forms between T. vesiculosum, T. multistriatum and T. mutabile were found both in living material and in the revised herbarium specimens.
["Central and southern Italy"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Second record of Hammarbya paludosa (L.) Kuntze (Orchidaceae) in Italy
A new population of Hammarbya paludosa, a rare orchid typical of peat bogs, has been discovered in Cinque Valli (Valsugana, Roncegno municipality, province of Trento). In Italy, this species was previously known only in one other locality in the province of Bolzano, near Anterselva/Antholz (Rasun-Anterselva/Rasen-Antholz municipality).
["Flora of Italy"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and animal studies"]

In this contribution, new data concerning lichens and bryophytes of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records, exclusions, and confirmations to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the lichen genera Athallia, Ramonia, Thelotrema, Pertusaria, Bryoplaca and in the bryophyte genera Dicranella, Bryum, and Scorpiurium.
["Bryopsida"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

In this contribution, new data concerning the Italian distribution of native vascular flora are presented. It includes new records, exclusions, and confirmations pertaining to the Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Arundo, Bromopsis, Cistus, Crocus, Festuca, Galeopsis, Genista, Lamium, Leucanthemum, Nerium, Orobanche, Peucedanum, Pilosella, Polycnemum, Stipa and Viola.

In this contribution, new data concerning the Italian distribution of alien vascular flora are presented. It includes new records, exclusions, and confirmations for Italy or for Italian administrative regions for taxa in the genera Agave, Arctotheca, Berberis, Bidens, Cardamine, Catalpa, Cordyline, Cotoneaster, Dichondra, Elaeagnus, Eragrostis, Impatiens, Iris, Koelreuteria, Lamiastrum, Lantana, Ligustrum, Limnophila, Lonicera, Lycianthes, Maclura, Mazus, Paspalum, Pelargonium, Phyllanthus, Pyracantha, Ruellia, Sorghum, Symphyotrichum, Triticum, Tulbaghia and Youngia.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Spiders in a Growing City: New Country and Regional Records of Spiders (Araneae) from Tbilisi, Georgia
Caucasiana
The spider fauna of Tbilisi was systematically documented in the early 2000s, when 252 species were recorded from the city and its surroundings. Despite a rapid urban expansion over the past two decades, subsequent studies have increased this number to 371 species. In the present study, we provide the first Georgian records of Tolokonniella stigmatisata (Menge, 1869) (Lathyidae) and Scotargus pilosus Simon, 1913 (Linyphiidae), and record Drassodes serratichelis (Roewer, 1928) (Gnaphosidae) in the Caucasus region for the first time, all based on specimens collected in Tbilisi.
["Drassodes"]

New records of Polistes paper wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) for Georgia with first DNA barcodes from Vashlovani National Park
Caucasiana
We hereby present the first country records of two vespid species of the genus Polistes Latreille, 1802 (Vespidae) — Polistes bucharensis Erichson, 1849 and P. mongolicus du Buysson, 1911 — for Georgia (Sakartvelo). We identified specimens morphologically and confirmed the identification with DNA barcode data. Based on this, we provide some of the first DNA barcodes for these species from the region as a basis for future research.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

Succession of soil microarthropods during leaf litter decomposition in two contrasting broadleaved tree stands: A litterbag study
Caucasiana
Here, we present the results of a litterbag experiment performed in a natural broadleaved forest to study the patterns of microarthropod succession in decomposing litter and the level of adaptation to local vs. spatially distant microhabitats. Ten oak and ten beech leaf-filled, defaunated litterbags were placed under an oak tree, and the same were placed under a beech tree (forty litterbags in total). Five litterbags of each type were collected six and twelve months after the beginning of the experiment, in June and December, respectively. Microarthropod fauna differed between the two sampling events, showing higher diversity and abundance in winter, reflecting the progress of colonization. Microarthropod faunal abundance and species numbers in litterbags filled with oak leaves and placed under the oak trees were significantly higher than those in the other types of litterbags, suggesting the adaptation of the local microarthropod community to this type of litter. The trophic composition of microarthropods showed a higher diversity at the end of the experiment, with increased ratios of predatory and fungivorous taxa, indicating more diverse and easily accessible food resources. Litter dry mass declined continuously for beech litter, while the rate of decline slowed in oak litter between the first and the second sampling events, probably due to the more robust structure of oak leaves compared to beech.
["decomposition"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

A revalidation and redescription of the orb-web spider Araniella tbilisiensis (Mcheidze 1997) (Araneae: Araneidae)
Based on the female lectotype from the D.E. Kharitonov’s collection, we provide a re-evaluation and redescription of an orb-web spider Araniella tbilisiensis (Mcheidze, 1997). Following an examination of Araniella villanii Zamani et al., 2020 paratypes, we considered this a junior synonym of A. tbilisiensis. Additionally, the photographs of the epigyne of a female specimen from D.E. Kharitonov’s collection, originally assigned to A. tbilisiensis, are presented as an unknown Araniella sp.
["Araneomorphae"]

Stuck in between: First case of transverse intersexuality in Trochosa cachetiensis Mcheidze, 1997 (Araneae, Lycosidae) from Georgia
The first illustrated description of transverse intersexuality in Trochosa cachetiensis Mcheidze, 1997, from Georgia, is provided. In this specimen, both male (palpal bulbs) and female (epigyne) structures are underdeveloped. Brief comparison of the intersex specimen with normally developed conspecifics is given.
["development"]

Barn Owl (Tyto alba) Pellet Analysis Reveals Wider Distribution of the Pygmy White-toothed Shrew (Suncus etruscus) in Georgia
The pygmy white-toothed shrew (Suncus etruscus), one of the smallest mammals globally, has long been considered rare and poorly studied in Georgia. Traditionally under-recorded due to its small size and elusive behaviour, the species' presence has remained uncertain, with only a few historical or unverified records. In this study, we analysed barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets collected across eastern Georgia between 2023 and 2025 to assess the presence of S. etruscus in the region. From a total of 6,627 prey items extracted and identified, 41 individuals of S. etruscus were found in pellets from 12 different locations in Kakheti and Kvemo Kartli regions. These findings significantly expand the known distribution of the species in Georgia and suggest that it is more common in lowland habitats than previously believed. Given the barn owl’s relatively small foraging range, the occurrence of S. etruscus remains in pellets is a reliable indicator of its local presence. Our results highlight the value of raptor pellet analysis in detecting elusive small mammals and suggest that S. etruscus may have been previously overlooked due to methodological limitations in traditional trapping surveys. This study provides a new foundation for understanding the distribution and habitat preferences of this poorly known species in the Caucasus.
["Suncus etruscus"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Plant and animal studies"]

Yodelling death – on interspecific aggression in overwintering Black-throated Divers (Gavia arctica) (Aves: Gaviidae)
Two cases of interspecific aggression by overwintering black-throated divers directed at great crested grebes Podiceps cristatus, are for the first time described from Georgia and the South Caucasus. In one case, the attack on a pair of great crested grebes had a fatal outcome for one grebe. The reasons for interspecific aggression outside the breeding season and the biological basis of this behaviour is discussed and observations compared with available literature. Due to the anecdotal nature of current knowledge of this puzzling issue no explanation for interspecific aggression per se is provided. The previously published hypothesis that competition for fish prey might play a role is supported. Observed interspecific aggression included adopting the aggressive display postures and performing actions used in territorial defence typical for the black-throated diver and the four larger Gavia species, such as fencing, crouching, bill-dipping, rushing, bow-jumping, and wing-flapping. Calls uttered during attack are a characteristic shortened form of the territorial yodel. A previously unpublished behaviour possibly linked to interspecific aggression of black-throated divers is described. Observation data obtained from 2021-2025 show that the black-throated diver is a regular passage migrant and winter guest at Tbilisi reservoir, emphasising the importance of the reservoir as a migration stop-over for the species in inland Georgia.
["arctic diver"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Plant and animal studies"]

New data on spiders (Arthropoda, Arachnida, Araneae) of Georgia with description of a new species from Tegenaria lyncea group
In this paper we present new faunistic and regional data on the Agelenidae, Gnaphosidae, Linyphiidae, and Lycosidae of Georgia. Tegenaria hasperi Chyzer, 1897 (Agelenidae), Archaraeoncus prospiciens (Thorell, 1875), Trichoncoides piscator (Simon, 1884) (both Linyphiidae), and Aulonia kratochvili Dunin, Buchar & Absolon, 1986 (Lycosidae) are reported for the first time from Georgia. Echemus levyi Kovblyuk & Seyyar, 2009 (Gnaphosidae) is reported for the first time from the Caucasus region. Tegenaria pseudolyncea (Guseinov, Marusik & Koponen, 2005) (Agelenidae) is documented in Georgia outside the Samachablo region for the first time. Marinarozelotes malkini (Platnick & Murphy, 1984) (Gnaphosidae) is recorded in the Southern Caucasus for the second time. Lastly, a new species from the Tegenaria lyncea group, T. amirani sp. nov. is described based on both male and female specimens from Georgia. Diagnostic illustrations, photographs of a live T. hasperi female, and images of T. amirani sp. nov. are provided along with detailed collecting data.
["Agelenidae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

First records of two genera Phragmacossia Schawerda, 1924 and Stygia Latreille, [1802] in the South Caucasus (Lepidoptera, Cossidae)
The study provides an update on the Lepidoptera diversity of Armenia, with the first record of two genera Phragmacossia Schawerda, 1924 and Stygia Latreille, [1802] based on 10 male specimens of Phragmacossia territa (Staudinger, 1879) and a single female specimen of Stygia mosulensis Daniel, 1965 collected in Alvank, Syuik Province, Armenia. These are also the first record of this genera in the South Caucasus.
["Armenia"]

Distribution, community composition and vulnerability of fish species in the Algeti River Basin (Georgia)
This study presents the first comprehensive survey of fish species’ diversity and distribution in the Algeti River and its reservoir in Georgia, a region within the Caucasus biodiversity hotspot. The research, conducted between 2016 and 2022, identified 19 fish species, including nine native to the Kura River basin and ten introduced or invasive species. The construction of a hydro power plant (HPP) dam in the 1980s and other subsequent anthropogenic activities have significantly altered the river ecosystem, creating distinct upstream, reservoir, and downstream sections with varying fish communities. The study reveals a concerning ongoing impact of anthropogenic factors on the Algeti River's fish fauna and whole ecosystem. The dam impedes fish migration; in addition, pollution, particularly in the mid-downstream section, has led to habitat degradation and a decline in native species. The introduction of non-native species, including predatory and bioturbator species, poses a substantial threat to the native fish populations. Our findings highlight the urgent need for conservation action to mitigate these threats. While the river's headwaters are within a protected area and some species are on the Red List of Georgia, alone these designations are insufficient safeguard. Effective conservation strategies must include stricter enforcement against illegal activities like poaching, as well as better pollution control and habitat management to preserve the Algeti River's biodiversity. This baseline study provides critical data for future research and conservation planning in this ecologically important region.
["Artificial barriers"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

From burrows to spotlight: first description of the female of Eresus lavrosii Mcheidze, 1997 (Araneae, Eresidae), with notes on the natural history
Eresidae (velvet spiders) is a relatively small family of spiders, most-diversified in the African continent. The present study provides the first description of the female of Eresus lavrosii Mcheidze, 1997, which has remained undiscovered for over two decades. We also briefly review the species’ history and add knowledge of its ecology, biology, and distribution. Diagnostic drawings and digital photographs of female and male copulatory organs, alongside COI barcoding results, photographs of live and preserved specimens, and of microhabitat are also presented.
["Araneomorphae"]

Notes on the phenology of dragonflies and damselflies (Insecta: Odonata) in the Aras River Valley of Türkiye
A check-list of Odonata found at Aras River Valley in Kars and Iğdır provinces of Türkiye is published for the first time, representing 38 species. The abundance of species from March to November is noted by month, with the phenology of the flight period indicated. Summer months host the highest number of species, up to 28 in June. We provide a complete phenology for the imago (adult) presence in the area for 22 species, from their emergence to their disappearance at the end of their flight period and life cycle. Short notes regarding selected species which are either rare in the region or have international protection status are also provided. This study shows that the Aras River Valley is an important place for Odonata, especially Onychogomphus flexuosus and Libellula pontica, species which are classified as “Vulnerable” and “Near Threatened”, respectively, in the present IUCN Red List of threatened species.
["Anisoptera"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

First records of two genera and three carpenter moths (Lepidoptera, Cossidae) from Georgia
The aim of the present study is to provide an update on the Lepidoptera diversity of Georgia, with the first records of the Cecryphalus Schoorl, 1990, and Dieida Strand, 1911, genera, along with Dyspessa infuscata (Staudinger, 1892). The records are based on three male specimens of Cecryphalus strix (Grum-Grshimailo, 1896), a single male specimen of Dieida ledereri (Staudinger, 1871), and a single female specimen of D. infuscata collected in different parts of Georgia. Digital images of imagoes, first descriptions, and pictures of male D. ledereri genitalia, along with collecting data, are provided.

On the presence of Hipparchia parisatis (Kollar, 1849) in the Republic of Georgia (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)
The first records of the highly distinctive Nymphalid species Hipparchia parisatis (Kollar, 1849) from the Republic of Georgia (Vashlovani Nature Reserve, hereafter VNR) are reported. The taxonomy and distribution of the species in the South Caucasus region are discussed, and the importance of the Vashlovani Protected Areas (hereafter VPA) as a hotspot for butterfly diversity in Georgia is emphasized. The report also highlights the importance of active collaboration, at the interface of web-based data recording platforms, between professional biologists and citizen science initiatives for the effective advancement of biodiversity research and conservation.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

First record of the family Atemnidae (Pseudoscorpiones) from Armenia
Diplotemnus balcanicus (Redikorzev, 1928) is reported from Armenia for the first time. This is also the first record of the family Atemnidae for Armenia. The finding is based on one male specimen found in the Ararat region, Angel’s Canyon, near Vedi. The description of the main morphological and morphometrical characteristics of the collected specimen is provided.
["Ararat region"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Gastrointestinal helminths of small mammals (Rodentia and Carnivora) in the vicinity of Usholta, Georgia
In this study, we investigated the gastrointestinal helminth fauna of small mammals in the highland region of Usholta (Racha, Western Georgia). In total, 19 specimens of small mammals were examined, of which 10 gastrointestinal helminth species were detected. Five out of eight specimens of Apodemus uralensis were infected with three nematode species: Heligmosomoides polygyrus, Syphacia obvelata, and Trichuris muris. Notably, the liver of a single individual of A. uralensis was also infected with cestode—Echinococcus multilocularis, (larvocysts) —a novel host record for this parasite in Georgia. All eight exeminated Microtus daghestanicus specimens were infected with both cestode (Paranoplocephala omphalodes and Rodentolepis asymmetrica) and nematode (Heligmosomum costellatum and Syphacia sp.) parasites. Similarly, all three exeminied specimens of Mustela nivalis were infected with cestodes (Versteria mustelae) and nematodes (Molineus patens, Syphacia sp.). For Syphacia sp., M. nivalis is a new host record in Georgia. Only one specimen of A. uralensis was simultaneously infected by two species of nematodes (Syphacia sp., T. muris) and also a single individual of M. nivalis was infected with three species of helminths (V. mustelae, M. patens, Syphacia sp.). This study provides valuable insights into the helminth diversity and host-parasite relationships in the region, highlighting the importance of continued research on wildlife parasites.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Parasitic infections in humans and animals"]

The first record of Dictis L. Koch, 1872 (Araneae, Scytodidae) in the Caucasus
Dictis L. Koch, 1875, is recorded in the Caucasus for the first time. Dictis strandi (Spassky, 1941), comb. nov. is transferred to Dictis from Scytodes Latreille, 1804 based on the examined female and two males raised to maturity from the egg sac. Collecting data and digital photos of live and preserved specimens are provided, along with detailed descriptions of both sexes, diagnostic illustrations, and observations on the natural history of Dictis strandi comb. nov. The endogyne is depicted for the first time.
["faunistics"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New and interesting spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) from Vashlovani National Park and Chachuna Managed Reserve (Georgia)
Spiders collected individually between 19–23 May 2024 during a trip to Vashlovani National Park and Chachuna Managed Reserve were determined, resulting in 24 species, of which two species are described as new: Synema inexpectata sp. nov. (Thomisidae) and Prodidomus trihelicoides sp. nov. (Prodidomidae). Ten species - Acanthinozodium parysatis Zamani & Marusik, 2021 (Zodariidae), Berlandina nabozhenkoi Ponomarev & Tsvetkov, 2006, Cryptodrassus helvolus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1872), Synaphosus palearcticus Ovtsharenko, Levy & Platnick, 1994, Synaphosus turanicus Ovtsharenko, Levy & Platnick, 1994, Talanites involutus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1885), Turkozelotes attavirus Chatzaki, 2019 (all Gnaphosidae), Evarcha armeniaca Logunov, 1999 (Salticidae), Lycosa soboutii Shafaie, Nadolny & Mirshamsi, 2022 (Lycosidae), Rhysodromus rikhteri (Logunov & Huseynov, 2008) (Philodromidae), and Sardinidion blackwalli (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1871) (Theridiidae) are recorded in Georgia for the first time, of which six species and three genera are new to the Caucasus region. The male of L. soboutii is described for the first time. Diagnostic drawings of preserved specimens and first photos of several preserved and alive species are provided along with the detailed collecting data.
["Arthropoda"]

Notes on Liocranidae (Arachnida, Araneae, Dionycha) from Georgia with description of a new species
The faunistic status of the spider family Liocranidae in Georgia is revised. Due to the preoccupation of the liocraniid genus Sagana Thorell, 1875, by a saturniid moth genus Sagana Walker, 1855 (currently placed in Copaxa Walker, 1855), the genus Drapeta Menge, 1875, is resurrected, hence the transfer of its type species D. rutilans (Thorell, 1875), comb. nov. and D. concolor (Simon, 1878), comb. nov. A new species, namely Drapeta caucasica sp. nov., is described from Georgia based on the male and female specimens from the Adjara region and Tbilisi vicinity. This is the third species of this previously considered monotypic genus. DNA barcoding results, diagnostic drawings, and detailed collecting data on Drapeta caucasica sp. nov., with a list of the Georgian Liocranidae, and previous records of ex-Sagana rutilans Thorell, 1875, in the Caucasus are discussed.

New records of centipedes (Myriapoda: Chilopoda) in the fauna of Georgia, South Caucasus
Georgia's rich biodiversity, as a key part of the Caucasus hotspot, makes it an ideal destination for scientific research. Nevertheless, knowledge about the species diversity of different animal groups in this area remains limited. In this article we provide information on the nine centipede species (Henia brevis (Silvestri, 1896), H. hirsuta Verhoeff, 1928, H. taurica (Sseliwanoff, 1884), Strigamia caucasia (Verhoeff, 1938), S. pusilla (Sseliwanoff, 1884), Harpolithobius spinipes Folkmanová, 1958, Lithobius antipai Matic, 1969, L. foviceps Muralevitch, 1926, and L. micropodus (Matic, 1980)) newly recorded in Georgia. Three of these species (H. brevis, H. hirsuta, and L. micropodus) are also new records for the Caucasus region. Data on their distribution, maps of the localities, and photos of the specimens studied are also given.
["Georgia"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

First records of the Hymenoptera superfamilies and families Mymarommatoidea: Mymarommatidae and Stephanoidea: Stephanidae in Georgia
We record for the first time the families Stephanidae and Mymarommatidae and the corresponding superfamilies Stephanoidea and Mymarommatoidea in Georgia. A single female of Stephanus serrator (Fabricius, 1798) was collected in Kakheti, Lagodekhi Protected Area (LPA), in the east, and five individuals of Mymaromma anomalum (Blood & Kryger, 1922) were collected in Achara, Kintrishi National Park (KNP), in the west of Georgia. Each of the studied wasp species is complemented by DNA (CO1) barcode sequences. Vouchers are deposited at Museum Koenig Bonn (LIB, ZFMK) and the Entomology Collection of the Agricultural University of Georgia (ECAUG).
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

First record of 15 species of Hemiptera (Hexapoda, Insecta) in Georgia
During the fieldworks conducted within the CaBOL project in 2020–2023, 14 new species of Heteroptera belonging to seven families, and a new species of Auchenorrhyncha were collected in Georgia for the first time: Trypetimorpha occidentalis Huang & Bourgoin, 1993 (Tropiduchidae), Dimorphopterus blissoides (Baerensprung, 1859) (Blissidae), Europiella decolor (Uhler, 1893), Tuponia mixticolor (A. Costa, 1862), Deraeocoris ventralis Reuter, 1904, Orthocephalus brevis (Panzer, 1798) (Miridae), Alloeorhynchus flavipes (Fieber, 1836) (Nabidae), Holcogaster fibulata (Germar, 1831), Vilpianus galii Wolff, 1802 (Pentatomidae), Holotrichius bergrothi Reuter, 1891, Reduvius ciliatus Jakovlev, 1879, Oncocephalus squalidus (Rossi, 1790) (Reduviidae), Pterotmetus staphyliniformis (Germar, 1831), Diomphalus hispidulus Fieber, 1864 (Rhyparochromidae), and Psacasta neglecta (Herrich-Schäffer, 1837) (Scutellaridae). The present study provides distributional, genetic, and collecting information on the newly recorded species followed by remarks.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

A new Psammitis species (Araneae, Thomisidae) from an extinct volcano in Georgia with reevaluation of the generic position of Xysticus marmoratus Thorell, 1875
A new species, Psammitis abuliensis sp. nov., from Didi Abuli Mt. (Georgia, Samtskhe-Javakheti region), is described based on two male specimens. Diagnostic drawings, measurements, collecting data, diagnosis, and DNA barcodes are given. A new combination, Psammitis marmoratus (Thorell, 1875), comb. nov. (ex. Xysticus), is proposed based on the COI subunit barcode results and morphological characters.

Picking pearls from the Silk Road: Insights into the spider (Arachnida, Araneae) diversity in Georgia from the Caucasus Barcode of Life (CaBOL) project. Part III
The present study contains information about a small number of spiders collected between 2018 and 2023. The spiders were determined to species level and partially assisted by genetic barcoding of the COI gene. Among the resulting 33 species, 23 species and three genera, are recorded from Georgia for the first time, of which 11 are new records for the entire Caucasus. Of the 26 barcoded specimens representing 18 species, six species (Agroeca maculata L. Koch, 1879; Aituaria eriashvilii (Marusik, 1987); Evippa sjostedti Schenkel, 1936; Lathys cf. lehtineni Kovblyuk, Kastrygina & Omelko, 2014; Zelotes segrex (Simon, 1878); Lathys lehtineni Kovblyuk, Kastrygina & Omelko, 2014; Maculoncus obscurus Tanasevitch, Ponomarev & Chumachenko, 2016) are barcoded for the first time. In addition, 12 new regional records for 10 species are provided. The collecting information for each record is provided in detail, together with a discussion of the barcoding results and remarks, supported by 48 diagnostic drawings of 22 first-recorded species. A potential synonymy of Pelecopsis odontophora (Kulczyński, 1895) with P. parallela (Wider, 1834) and Bassaniodes loeffleri (Roewer, 1955) with B. pseudorectilineus (Wunderlich, 1995) is discussed.

Length-weight relationships of four difficult-to-sample Caspian endemic gobies (Teleostei: Gobiidae): Benthophilus persicus, Benthophilus baeri, Knipowitschia longecaudata, and Hyrcanogobius bergi
The present study provides the length-weight relationships (LWRs) for four difficult-to-sample Caspian endemic gobies for the first time: Benthophilus persicus, Benthophilus baeri, Knipowitschia longecaudata, and Hyrcanogobius bergi. They were collected from shallow and deep waters of the southwestern Caspian Sea using various methods, including beach seining, scuba diving, and deepwater bottom beam trawls. The slope (b) of LWRs ranged from 2.874 for B. baeri, to 3.408 for H. bergi with coefficient of determination higher than 0.918. The b values showed significant differences between the sexes of all species.
["Baer\u2019s tadpole goby"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

The first record of Ripiphoridae (Coleoptera, Cucujiformia, Tenebrionoidea) family in Georgia
The Ripiphoridae family is reported from Georgia for the first time, based on the collected specimens of Macrosiagon bimaculata (Fabricius, 1787), Ptilophorus dufouri (Latreille, 1817), and Ripiphorus subdipterus (Bosc d'Antic, 1792). Collection data, along with photographs of the preserved specimens, are provided.

First barcode-assisted annotated checklist of owlflies (Neuroptera, Myrmeleontidae, Ascalaphidae) of Georgia with the first record of genus Deleproctophylla Lefèbvre, 1842
The present study aims to provide an updated checklist of the owlfly subfamily Ascalaphidae Lefèbvre, 1842, with the first records of the genus Deleproctophylla Lefèbvre, 1842, from the country. The new records give an improved understanding of owlfly distribution within the country. The record of the genus Deleproctophylla in Georgia is based on a single female specimen of D. australis (Fabricius, 1787).

The first record of Hemineura wittmeri Badonnel, 1981 (Psocodea, Psocomorpha, Elipsocidae) from the Caucasus
The second psocid species of the genus Hemineura Tetens, 1891, namely H. wittmeri Badonnel, 1981, is recorded from the Caucasus region for the first time based on several female and male specimens collected in the Shida Kartli region of Georgia. Collecting data are given along with diagnostic illustrations of the preserved specimens.
["Elipsocinae"]

﻿The first record of Pselaphochernes scorpioides﻿ (Hermann, 1804) from Georgia, Caucasus (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones)
Pselaphochernes scorpioides (Hermann, 1804) is reported from Georgia for the first time. This is also the first record of the genus Pselaphochernes in Georgia. The finding is based on one female specimen found in the Malaise trap in Kintrishi National Park, Adjara Region. A description of the main morphological and morphometrical characteristics of the collected specimen is provided.
["Adjara"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Picking pearls from the Silk Road: Insights into the spider (Arachnida, Araneae) diversity in Georgia from the Caucasus Barcode of life project. Part II
Abstract Spiders collected during field trips and by spontaneous hand collection throughout Georgia between the years 2006 and 2023 were determined to species and partially assisted by genetic barcoding of the COI gene. Among the resulting 297 species, 100 species, 25 genera, and 1 family were recorded from Georgia for the first time, of which 18 species and 5 genera were recorded for the first time from the entire Caucasus. Of the 283 barcoded specimens representing 150 species, 26 were barcoded for the first time. 140 diagnostic drawings of 76 preserved specimens, along with photos of 15 preserved (Supplementary File) and one alive species, are provided. Baryphyma proclive (Simon, 1884), Pritha pallida (Kulczyński, 1897), and Zelotes khostensis Kovblyuk & Ponomarev, 2008 are indicated as the species with an Italo-Caucasian disjunctive distribution.

Checklist of checkered beetles (Coleoptera, Cleridae) from Sakartvelo (Georgia)
Abstract A list of 18 species of checkered beetles is given, together with images of voucher specimens and a distribution map based on literature, dry collections and databases.
["CaBOL"]

Soil mite (Acari: Oribatida) communities in the limestone quarry of Saskhori (Gerogia)
Abstract The present publication provides a review of the soil mite (Acari; Oribatida) community’s structure and the connection between changes in environmental factors and oribatid mite diversity in the limestone quarry of Saskhori and its adjacent areas. Overall, 52 species were recorded during the study. The most abundant oribatid mite species were Steganacarus carinatus, Aleurodamaeus setosus, Xenillus tegeocranus, Ceratoppia bipilis, Oribatula tibialis, and Punctoribates punctum. Interestingly, 23 species of oribatid mites were recorded for the first time from the limestone quarry of Saskhori, and one species (Liacarus oribatelloides) was a new record for the Caucasus fauna. The following indices were analyzed: abundance (N), species diversity (S), Shannon’s diversity index (H), and Pielou’s evenness index (J’). Regarding the obtained results, the highest density of oribatid mites was recorded in the habitat with Shibliak shrubbery (332 inds/m2), while the forest habitat was characterized with the highest value for Shannon’s diversity index (2,64). In the publication, we also provide a detailed morphological description of the newly recorded species L. oribatelloides, with the respective illustration, as no figures are given in its original description.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

A new species and family of beetle for Georgia (Sakartvelo): Arrhaphipterus schelkownikoffi Reitter, 1893 (Coleoptera: Rhipiceridae)
Abstract Arrhaphipterus schelkownikoffi Reitter, 1893, is reported from Georgia for the first time. Detailed information on the trapping localities, as well as photographs of the male, female, male genitalia, and empodium, are provided.
["Beetle fauna"]

The first record of Haploembia solieri (Rambur, 1842) (Insecta, Embioptera) in Georgia
Abstract The first representative of the footspinners - Haploembia solieri (Rambur, 1842) (Insecta, Embioptera, Oligotomidae), is reported from Georgia for the first time. Notes on the species distribution and ecology are also provided, along with a map of collecting sites, photos of a live specimen, and diagnostic drawings.
["CaBOL"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿﻿﻿﻿Picking pearls from the Silk Road: Insights into the spider (Arthropoda, Araneae) diversity in Georgia from the CaBOL project. Part I
Spiders collected during field trips and by spontaneous hand-collecting throughout Georgia between the years 2006 and 2022 were determined to species level and partly characterized by genetic barcoding of the COI gene. Among the resulting 51 species, two are recorded for the first time from the entire Caucasus Ecoregion: Pireneitega armeniaca (Brignoli, 1978) (Agelenidae) and Leviellus caspicus (Simon, 1889) (Araneidae). Five species are reported for the first time from Georgia: Lycosoides coarctata (Dufour, 1831) (Agelenidae), and from the Araneidae: Aculepeira talishia (Zawadsky, 1902), Gibbaranea gibbosa (Walckenaer, 1802), G. omoeda (Thorell, 1870), Leviellus stroemi (Thorell, 1870) and Singa semiatra L. Koch, 1867. Additionally, Lycosoides lehtineni Marusik & Guseinov, 2003 syn. nov. is synonymized with Lycosoides coarctata (Dufour, 1831). Diagnostic drawings and photographs are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

First records of bat-associated Cimex lectularius (Cimicidae, Heteroptera) for Armenia and Georgia
Besides humans, the common bed bug Cimex lectularius uses bats as hosts, but no such records were available from the Southern Caucasus. Here, we record the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) and the lesser mouse-eared bat (Myotis blythii) as hosts of C. lectularius from two Georgian and one Armenian sites. A summary of all known published records of bat-associated populations of C. lectularius shows they are both scattered and restricted to the Palearctic only. Observations of C. lectularius from bat colonies in Georgia and Armenia were made in old buildings or ruins, like churches or monasteries, but not in caves, despite a specific search. This supports previous studies suggesting that 1) bat-associations of common bed bugs are very rare outside Central Europe and 2) almost never occur in caves. We discuss climatic conditions and host preferences as possible factors for these findings and the implications for the origin of the human bed bug interaction.
["Bed bug"]
["Dermatological diseases and infestations", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

﻿﻿﻿﻿The first barcode-assisted record of Tropidopola turanica Uvarov, 1926 (Orthoptera, Acrididae) from Georgia
Abstract The genus Tropidopola (Insecta, Orthoptera) is recorded in Georgia for the first time. Detailed information on the barcode of the species, pictures of the live and preserved specimen, collecting information, and remarks on the ecology of T. turanica Uvarov, 1926, are given.
["CaBOL"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿﻿﻿﻿The first record of the family Piophilidae (Insecta: Diptera) from the Caucasus
Abstract Piophilidae Macquart, 1835, is a small family of flies widely distributed in all parts of the world but more represented in the cooler temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. At present, there is a lack of information on the distribution of this family in the Caucasus region. In this study, the family Piophilidae, with a record of Prochyliza nigrimana (Meigen, 1826), is reported for the first time from the South Caucasus ecoregion.

﻿﻿﻿﻿Catalog of Georgian Earth-boring dung beetles (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae)
Abstract A summarized list of Georgian earth-boring dung beetles is given, together with Georgian names, distribution data, and suggestions for national red list status according to IUCN Red List categories and criteria.
["Sakartvelo"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

The first DNA-assisted record of Hemelytroblatta livida (Blattodea: Corydiidae) from Georgia with notes on Corydiinae species composition in the Caucasus
The fossorial sand cockroach Hemelytroblatta livida (Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1865) is reported from Georgia for the first time, with a commentary on the species composition of the Corydiinae Saussure, 1864 subfamily in the Caucasus. Collection data, pictures of the male and female, and DNA barcodes are also provided. Furthermore, information on Polyphaga aegyptiaca (Linnaeus, 1758) is provided, along with images of the male, female, and juvenile.
["Dictyoptera"]

﻿﻿﻿﻿New and well-forgotten: DNA-assisted records of two beetle (Insecta, Coleoptera) species new for the fauna of Georgia with an update on the distribution of some other little studied taxa
First records of two species of beetles (Insecta, Coleoptera), namely Pocadius adustus Reitter, 1888 (Nitidulidae) and Byrrhus pustulatus (Forster, 1770) (Byrrhidae) are given for Georgia. In addition, an update on the occurrences of Necrobia violacea (Linnaeus, 1758) (Cleridae), Coelostoma orbiculare (Fabricius, 1775) (Hydrophilidae) and Lycoperdina succincta (Linnaeus, 1767) (Endomychidae) are also presented based on the specimens collected in Samtskhe-Javakheti region, determined by morphological and mtDNA barcoding methods.

﻿﻿﻿﻿The land snail family Clausiliidae (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Stylommatophora) in Georgia: overview, novel records and a new species
The Caucasus ecoregion is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in western Eurasia. Georgia is situated in the middle of this area, between the ranges of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus, a position providing exceptionally balanced environmental conditions for its flora and fauna. Animal groups of low mobility, such as land snails, are important indicators of the past and present geographic and climatic events shaping these unique ecosystems. We give an overview of the land snail family Clausiliidae in Georgia that includes 30 species, among which eight are endemic to this country. Their distribution areas are reassessed in the light of novel georeferenced occurrence data resulting from recent field work. Aspects of the origin, diversity, habitat requirements and conservation status of the Georgian Clausiliidae fauna are discussed. Additionally, Mucronaria (Mucronaria) kartvelica sp. n. is described from the Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti Region.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Leptopus hispanus and Erianotus lanosus: the first DNA-assisted records of Leptopodidae (Hemiptera, Heteroptera) for the fauna of Georgia
The shore-bug (Leptopodidae Brullé, 1836) family is reported from Georgia for the first time upon several finds of Leptopus hispanus Rambur, 1840, and Erianotus lanosus (Dufour, 1834) (Hemiptera, Heteroptera). These species are widespread from the Mediterranean to Central Asia, including the Caucasus. Barcodes of the species, collecting information, and pictures of specimens are given.
["New species record"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Parasite ecology of Carassius gibelio (Bloch, 1782) in Jandari Lake (Georgia)
The aim of the investigation was to study the current structure of the parasitic fauna of the gibel carp (Carassius gibelio) population in the Georgian part of Jandari Lake. In total, 423 young gibel carp collected during 2014-2018 years from Jandari Lake have been subject to parasitological examination. The 20.3% (n=86) of examined fish were invaded by 11 species of parasites belonging to 5 taxonomic groups. The dominant taxonomic groups were discovered to be Protozoa and Monogenea. The eight species were registered for the first time in the gibel carp of freshwater reservoirs in Georgia. In general, young fish were more invaded by the monoxenic species of the direct life cycle. None of the revealed parasites were specific to gibel carp. The parasitic fauna of Jandari Lake is relatively poor, though it is comparatively rich and diverse in spring. Trichodina sp. from Protozoa, Ancyrocephalus sp., Dactylogyrus vastator, Gyrodactylus elegans from Monogenea, and Contracaecum sp. from Nematoda were revealed as the species most sensitive to annual changes. The main factor determining the parasite fauna of gibel carp in Lake Jandari is anthropogenic eutrophication, which changes the qualitative and quantitative composition of zooplankton, the main food source of juvenile fish and intermediate hosts of helminths. The difference in invasion indices between female and male gibel carp was insignificant. The synergetic relationship between some parasitic protozoans and monogeneans was marked.
["Protozoa"]
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

New distribution records of the alien plant – Sicyos angulatus L. (Cucurbitaceae) from Georgia
The invasion of alien plants into the territory of Georgia started in ancient times and continues today. Sicyos angulatus L., a species of North American origin, is an example of such an invasion. The first established populations of S. angulatus occurrence in Georgia were observed in 2012. Since then, new localities have been recorded, both in agricultural and disturbed natural communities. The species, which has easily adapted to local soil and climatic conditions, is expanding every year and is already widely spread in west Georgia. The plant is characterized by fast and intense growth and a climbing habit using other plants as a support. In this contribution, the peculiarities of its distribution in Georgia and the morphological features and life-history characteristics of Georgian populations are provided.
["Alien plant"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

New record of Chaetophiloscia hastata Verhoeff, 1928 for Georgia (Isopoda, Oniscidea, Philosciidae)
Chaetophiloscia hastata Verhoeff, 1928 is recorded from Saskhori limestone quarry (Mtskheta municipality, eastern Georgia). This is the first confirmed record of the genus and species for the Georgian isopod fauna. The species is fully illustrated to facilitate its identification.
["Malacostraca"]
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

First record of Palorus subdepressus (Wollaston, 1864) (Coleoptera: Tenebronidae) from Georgia (Sakartvelo)
The darkling beetle Palorus subdepressus (Wollaston, 1864) is recorded from Georgia for the first time. Detailed information on the recording site, pictures of the voucher specimen, and identification criteria are given, along with a mini-review of the Palorus Mulsant, 1854 species ever recorded in Georgia.
["Darkling beetle"]

Sawflies (Hymenoptera: Symphyta) from North-Western Georgia (Sakartvelo)
In total, 388 specimens belonging to 61 species of sawflies were collected in North-Western Georgia in 2020. Among the collected species, 29 are new country records.
["South Caucasus"]

New records of Coleoptera from Lagodekhi Protected Areas, with new records for Georgia (Sakartvelo)
During this survey, 195 species of coleopterans have been recorded from the Lagodekhi Protected Areas (LPA). Thirty families are recorded for the first time from this area, of which Rhysodidae, Sphindidaeand, and Thymalidae are new for Georgia. One hundred fifty-seven species are new to LPA and 66 of them are new country records.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Drosophilid flies (Diptera: Drosophilidae) of Georgia (Sakartvelo) with new records for the country
Four genera and 12 species of drosophilid flies have been recorded during our survey in five regions of Georgia in 2021. Two genera, Amiota (Loew, 1862) and Gitona Meigen, 1830, and four species (Amiota subtusradiata Duda 1934, Drosophila busckii Coquillett 1901, D. kuntzei Duda, 1924, and Gitona distigma Meigen, 1830) represent new records for the fauna of Georgia (Sakartvelo).
["Drosophila suzukii"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

First DNA-based record of Arachnocephalus vestitus Costa, 1855 (Orthoptera: Mogoplistidae) from Georgia
The widespread Mediterranean cricket, Arachnocephalus vestitus (Orthoptera: Mogoplistidae), is hereby reported as a new record for Georgia. In total, four females have been examined in 2020 and 2021, of which three specimens have been collected, and the information on the fourth one is based on photographic evidence. Cytochrom oxydase I (COI) barcoding further validates our finding.
["Hairy Scale-cricket"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Discovery of Hemilepistus (Hemilepistus) klugii (Brandt, 1833) (Isopoda, Oniscidea) in the Republic of Georgia with an overview of the ecology and biology of the subgenus
The terrestrial woodlice Hemilepistus (Hemilepistus) klugii (Brandt, 1833) is reported from Georgia for the first time, with a commentary on the species composition of the genus Hemilepistus Budde-Lund, 1879 in the Caucasus. A short review of the ecology of the subgenus H. (Hemilepistus) is also provided.
["Agnaridae"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

New data on some microhymenopteran families from Lagodekhi Protected Area, with new records for Georgia (Sakartvelo) and the Caucasus
Abstract We present data on the distribution of seven wasp families, Ceraphronidae, Diapriidae, Ismaridae, Megaspilidae, Platygastridae, Proctotrupidae and Scelionidae, collected in Georgia (Sakartvelo). Thirty-three genera are recorded for the first time from Georgia and 25 of them for the Caucasus. From these, 16 species level taxa are newly recorded in Georgia, and 14 identified species are new records for the Caucasus. This brings the number of known insect species in the Lagodekhi Protected Area (LPA) to 1682.
["Ceraphronidae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Rediscovery of Serangium montazerii Fürsch in Georgia and updated list of the Coccinellidae of Georgia
This article provides an updated list of the Coccinellidae of Georgia, recording 84 species. Serangium montazerii Fürsch nec S. parcesetosum Sicard is also rehabilitated as a species actually present in the country.
["beetles"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

From forest mosaics to yucales: noninvasive monitoring untangles mammal–crop interactions in eastern Honduras
Neotropical Biology and Conservation
Forest–farm interfaces in tropical landscapes are pivotal hotspots of human–wildlife interaction. However, they remain poorly documented across Central America. This study investigated crop depredation at the forest edge of a 10 ha cassava (Manihot esculenta) field (“yucal”) in Mavita, Honduran Mosquitia, embedded within a mosaic of Pinus caribaea and tropical moist forest. From December 2024 to February 2025, three camera traps, coupled with solar-powered, motion-activated LED lights (“silent technology”), were deployed to identify the true crop-raiding community and describe diel activity. Contrary to local expectations, rabbits (Sylvilagus hondurensis) emerged as the primary crop raiders, while tapirs (Tapirus bairdii) were present but not the sole culprits. No evidence of pacas (Cuniculus paca) or armadillos (Dasypus mexicanus) was found. Light-assisted traps consistently recorded rabbits but were less effective for other taxa (e.g., ocelots), despite moderate-to-high temporal overlap among species. Ordinal models indicated that higher behavioral response codes were more likely later in the day, and rabbits showed lower behavioral intensities than other groups. These findings highlight how forest structure and edge context can shape detection and behavior and how misattribution of damage can arise in remote forest landscapes. Non-invasive diagnostics, including light-assisted camera traps, and buffer cassava plots at forest margins are recommended to accommodate wildlife foraging while reducing direct impacts on fields. This study provides forest-centric evidence to guide conflict mitigation and coexistence strategies within Miskitu territories of the Honduran Caribbean Lowlands.
["Camera traps"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Distribution and first insight into the reproductive biology of two species of the genus Rhamdia (Siluriformes, Heptapteridae) in a Biosphere Reserve
Neotropical Biology and Conservation
Distribution data and reproductive biology of freshwater catfishes of the genus Rhamdia remain insufficiently explored, limiting our knowledge of these ecologically, nutritionally, and economically important species. We provide updated distribution data and a preliminary study of the reproductive biology of the Pale catfish, Rhamdia guatemalensis, and the Filespin chulín, Rhamdia laticauda in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve (TCBR), Oaxaca, Mexico, based on vouchered records and analyses of sex ratio, sexual size dimorphism, size at first gonadal maturation, and total fecundity. Specimens were collected from 20 sites within the TCBR using electrofishing during two periods, 2006–2007 and 2015–2016. The Pale catfish was recorded in eight municipalities, whereas the Filespin chulín occurred in five, with a similar elevation range. Both species exhibited an overall sex ratio of 1:1 and female-biased sexual dimorphism in standard length (SL) and body mass (BM). Size at first sexual maturity was estimated at 97.6 mm SL in R. guatemalensis and 79 mm SL in R. laticauda. Both species exhibited high fecundity, with mean numbers of eggs per female of 9647 for the Pale catfish (n = 13) and 1457 for the Filespin chulín (n = 11). Fecundity was positively correlated with ovary weight in both species. Our results contribute to the understanding of the distribution and reproductive biology of native freshwater catfishes in the TCBR.
["Fecundity"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Reproductive biology and impacts on aquatic species"]

Seasonal variations in spatial ecology, habitat use and habitat selection by San Cristóbal lava lizards Microlophus bivittatus in Galápagos
Neotropical Biology and Conservation
Activity of terrestrial ectotherms in seasonal equatorial environments can be challenging due to temporal variations in temperature and water availability. Social interactions among conspecifics, along with predation risks, can also place limitations on activity patterns and spatial ecology. We studied the spatial ecology, habitat use, and habitat selection in the San Cristóbal lava lizard (Microlophus bivittatus) during a hot-wet period (March), and a cool-dry period (August). Overall, lizards used rock faces under canopy more frequently than other microhabitats. Compared to the hot-wet period, lizards increased their use of rock crevices and detritus and were sometimes inactive for several consecutive days during the cool-dry period. Lizards varied in their selection of structural features and thermal characteristics across seasons and throughout the day, relying on open areas for basking (especially during the mornings) during the hot-wet period and shifting to sheltered, cooler microhabitats during the cool-dry season. Within their larger activity areas, each lizard concentrated movements within a single area but occasionally and often repeatedly traveled to peripheral specific areas. While minimum convex polygons and AKDE-95% utility distributions (UDs) overlapped among individuals extensively, AKDE-50% UDs rarely overlapped among individuals that resided adjacent to one another. Lizards showed a reduction in space use metrics by over 50% between the hot-wet and the cool-dry period further indicating seasonal limitations on activity between seasons. Overall, San Cristóbal lava lizards are sensitive to both thermal and structural habitat characteristics and vary their habitat use and activity patterns seasonally.
["Activity"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

First photographic evidence of an insular dwarf fox (Urocyon sp.) on the island of Cozumel, Mexico
Insular isolation can drive rapid evolutionary divergence, including pronounced dwarfism, in mammals. A dwarfed fox (Urocyon sp.) has inhabited the island of Cozumel, Mexico, for millennia, yet prior evidence of its existence was limited to subfossil remains. Additionally, no comprehensive morphological or genetic studies have been conducted, and sightings of the Cozumel fox are exceptionally rare. Here, we report the first photographic record and the first confirmed sighting in over two decades. On 14 September 2023, an adult male was photographed near kilometer 29 on Cozumel’s coastal highway. This observation confirms the species’ continued presence and highlights its likely critical conservation status. Targeted surveys, population monitoring, and taxonomic assessments are urgently needed, along with habitat protection and measures to minimize human-wildlife conflict, to ensure the survival of this rare and cryptic fox.
["Cozumel fox"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Easy prey: opportunistic predation of great fruit-eating bat (Artibeus lituratus) by ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) with ocular anomaly in Cerros de Amotape National Park, Tumbes, Peru
Despite their suitable size, bats (Chiroptera) represent rare to occasional prey for the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), a generalist carnivorous feline with a wide geographic distribution. This work documents the first observed predation of Artibeus lituratus, a Neotropical fruit bat, by Leopardus pardalis from a mist net in Peru. The individual L. pardalis exhibited an ocular anomaly—the absence of the tapetum lucidum reflex in its left eye—which could have affected its night vision. This observation highlights plasticity in the hunting behavior of L. pardalis, allowing this individual to persist despite likely visual limitations. In addition, this case underscores the value of ecological monitoring in documenting unusual interactions between predators and prey.
["Carnivora"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Thermal ecology of three potentially at-risk species of Mexican kinosternid turtles
Surprisingly little is known about the thermal ecology of Mexican kinosternid turtles. We studied the body temperatures of Kinosternon cora, K. durangoense, and K. herrerai from Mexico. Mean body temperatures of the three species were 25.0 °C for K. cora, 21.9 °C for K. durangoense, and 23.3 °C for K. herrerai. Body temperature (Tb) in K. cora were negatively related to water temperatures (Tw). Body temperatures in K. cora were lower than Tw and the differences between Tb and Tw increased with Tw. In both K. durangoense and K. herrerai, Tb increased with both Ta and Tw. In K. durangoense, Tb was higher than Tw below ≈ 22 °C and lower than Tw above ≈ 22 °C. In K. herrerai, Tb was higher than Tw below ≈ 23.5 °C and lower than Tw above ≈ 23.5 °C. Males and females did not differ in Tb in all three species. Our results suggest a role for environmental temperatures—especially water temperature—in determining body temperature in these three species of Mexican Kinosternon. However, our results also suggest that these turtles can maintain Tb different from their aquatic habitat, suggesting at least a limited ability to thermoregulate.
["Kinosternon cora"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Avian composition in the rural ‘Amazon Front Yard’ still retains its humid tropical identity
The Bragantina region is one of the most densely settled regions of the Amazon Basin. Rainforests were clear-cut during the last two centuries and replaced by a tessellated rural landscape of pastures, fields, oil palm plantations, gallery forests, and secondary vegetation. However, the impact of the still ongoing land-use changes on biodiversity has hardly been studied, so the purpose of this paper is to summarize bird observations from the Belém area and its rural hinterland. Audiovisual bird surveys were carried out around Belém, on ten farms in the municipality of Igarapé-Açu, and along the Atlantic coast between 1999 and 2018. Compiled species lists are compared with historical studies of the Bragantina, adjacent Maranhão, and Marajó. To evaluate regional community assembly, non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) was employed and beta diversity was partitioned into turnover and nestedness components. Results indicate that community differentiation is primarily driven by species turnover (replacement) rather than nestedness (species loss), reflecting a significant ecological shift while maintaining high regional richness. Species diversity was further analyzed using Hill numbers (q = 0, 1, 2) and integrated rarefaction/extrapolation curves to ensure robust regional comparisons independent of sampling effort. In total, 300 bird species (220 genera; 62 families) were reconfirmed. Although the mosaic-like landscape resembles savannas today, the data elucidate that bird composition is still more similar to that of the ancient rainforest biome than to that of adjacent savannas. While robust, widespread neotropical generalists, such as Crotophaga ani and Columbina passerina, became dominant, and Guira guira and Melanerpes candidus established themselves, large understory game birds of pristine rainforests are virtually absent. However, endemic canopy species, such as Xipholena lamellipennis, might survive within the Bragantina if sufficiently large forest patches and mast trees are protected and planted at regular intervals across the whole region. Thereby, it may be more promising to protect robust, common (to rare) Amazonian bird species that can follow dynamic land-use changes than to concentrate on the last remaining pristine forest specialists.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Two new species of Scolia (Hymenoptera, Scoliidae) from Mexico and Panama
Two new species of Scolia (Scoliinae, Scoliini) are described from Mexico and Panama: Scolia bartletti sp. nov. and Scolia albumtenebris sp. nov., respectively. Morphological diagnostic characters are provided to distinguish the new species from other Scolia species, together with a taxonomic key to Scolia from North and Central America. This study adds two species to the known Scolia fauna in America, increasing the total to 14 species.
["Mammoth wasps"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Arboreal mammal use of canopy walkway bridges in an Amazonian forest with continuous canopy cover
The Amazon Basin is a biodiversity hotspot, with vertically stratified forests fostering complex habitats and high mammal diversity. Although mammals play a critical role in maintaining ecosystem structure, less is known about arboreal mammal activity and habitat use across forest canopy layers. As forest fragmentation increases, understanding how these changes impact arboreal species is essential for effective conservation efforts. Here, we provide a snapshot of canopy walkway use by arboreal mammals in an Amazonian forest with unfragmented canopy cover, providing insight into their spatial and temporal movement patterns across different canopy layers. This study was conducted at the Amazon Conservatory for Tropical Studies, in the Napo-Sucusari Biological Reserve outside Iquitos, Perú. During a three-week survey, we deployed camera traps at multiple heights along a canopy walkway system to monitor arboreal mammal activity. A total of seven mammal species used this canopy walkway system during our study period. Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus) and the long-tailed porcupine (Coendou longicaudatus longicaudatus) were the most commonly observed species, with several observations of the more reclusive and data-deficient C. ichillus also recorded, among other species. Peak activity occurred between 1900 and 2100 h, coinciding with higher temperature and humidity than nighttime averages. Mid-canopy layers (ca. 21 to 27 m above ground) were most frequently used, with decline in use at higher and lower canopy layers. Our findings provide baseline data on arboreal mammal use of canopy walkways in a tropical forest, which may help inform the design of human-created arboreal corridors to connect forest fragments.
["artificial bridges"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Records of Polycladus gayi (Tricladida, Geoplanidae) preying on the invasive slug Limax maximus (Gastropoda, Limacidae) in Chile's temperate forests
Terrestrial planarians are important soil predators of a variety of invertebrate groups, including exotic and invasive mollusc species. However, data on prey in natural conditions are scarce. Polycladus gayi is a giant planarian from the forests of southern Chile whose predatory behaviour is poorly known. Here, we report two cases of predation on Limax maximus, an invasive slug recorded within native forests. We suggest that P. gayi displayed two distinct types of predatory behaviour: (1) helicoidal tube formation and (2) surrounding immobilisation. As the reported distributions of the invasive slug and P. gayi are similar, we suggest this predator-prey interaction might be common. Furthermore, depending on the prey type and size, P. gayi might exhibit different types of predatory behaviour. This knowledge reveals little-known aspects of P. gayi ecology, raising new questions about ecological and conservation issues.
["Land planarian"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Avian malaria in wild birds within a tropical dry forest area in Guatemala
Urbanization is widely recognized as a driver of increased pathogen transmission, primarily through landscape modification and heightened contact rates between hosts and vectors, which can elevate parasite prevalence and virulence. In this survey, we investigated the prevalence and parasitemia rates of avian malaria in urban and rural areas within a tropical dry forest region of eastern Guatemala—an area undergoing substantial transformation from natural landscapes to urbanized environments. Using a combination of microscopy and PCR-based techniques, we diagnosed and quantified malaria parasites in 181 blood samples collected from 33 wild bird species. Our findings revealed a moderate overall prevalence of avian malaria (38%), with Plasmodium spp. being the most prevalent, followed by Haemoproteus spp. Notably, no Leucocytozoon infections were detected in the sampled populations.
["Avian malaria incidence"]
["Bird parasitology and diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

High temperatures and drought affect the germination of Populus luziarum and P. primaveralepensis, endangered species from the Neotropical region of Mexico
The higher temperatures and lower rainfall generated by global warming can have negative repercussions on the physiological responses of plants. This study aims to understand how the higher temperatures and declining precipitation will affect the germination of Populus luziarum and P. primaveralepensis, two endangered endemic species from western Mexico. The germination of these species was evaluated through the combined effect of three temperatures (24, 28, and 32 °C) and five water potentials (0, –0.07, –0.15, –0.3, and –0.6 MPa). The evaluated response variables utilized were the minimum time that seeds need to begin germination, the mean germination rate, and the final percentage of germination. Significant differences were found in the germination of both species due to the factors and their interaction. The highest germination percentages were registered with the combination of 24 °C and 0 MPa for both species (90% and 94%, respectively). The lowest percentage for P. luziarum was recorded at –0.6 MPa for any temperature (26–32%), while the lowest germination (23%) was found for P. primaveralepensis at –0.6 MPa and 32 °C. In addition, germinability was slowest in both species because of the highest temperatures and lowest water potential and their interactions. It is concluded that higher temperatures and drought stress will negatively affect the germination and recovery of populations of these two species.
["Global warming"]
["Seed Germination and Physiology", "Bioenergy crop production and management", "Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems"]

Genetic structure and microsatellite-based genetic variation influenced by habitat fragmentation in pudu deer (Pudu puda) from southern Chile
Landscape alterations have strong impacts on the distribution of genetic variation within and between populations, and understanding these effects can provide insights for design conservation strategies. We analyzed 20 georeferenced individuals of pudu deer (Pudu puda) of three populations from southern Chile to obtain genetic diversity and distance parameters based on five polymorphic microsatellite loci. The genetic population structure was assessed by using STRUCTURE 2.3.4 and the effective population sizes (Ne) with NeEstimator 2.0 software. Habitat fragmentation metrics were also analyzed to correlate these data with the genetic variation focused to assess the effect of native forest fragmentation on the genetic structure of pudu deer. The mean number of alleles ranges from 2.8 to 4.2, while the mean number of private alleles ranged from 0.4 to 1.2. The mean observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.423 to 0.547. All populations displayed significant deficits of heterozygotes (FIS = 0.091-0.189, P < 0.0001). The FST on the whole populations and loci was low (mean FST = 0.0942) and without statistical significance (P > 0.05), indicating no genetic differentiation among populations. The STRUCTURE analysis did not reveal a population structure, and the NeEstimator found a markedly low Ne in a population compared to other analyzed populations. Multiple regression analysis indicates that two fragmentation metrics, namely, the proportion of the landscape covered by forest (PLAND) and the patch density (PD), negatively and significantly affected the number of alleles per locus as well as the observed heterozygosity (PLAND, β = -0.8740, P < 0.05; PD, β = -0.6594, P < 0.05). This result suggests that a greater degree of habitat fragmentation contributes to a decrease in genetic variation of pudu deer. Therefore, maintaining the native forest continuity across the distribution range of pudu deer could contribute to preserving the genetic diversity, enhancing the long-term survival of this mammal.
["Conservation genetics"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genetic and phenotypic traits in livestock", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Dietary composition of Oxyrhopus trigeminus in the Brazilian semiarid: new records, a literature review, and an incidental case of plastic ingestion
The Caatinga, the largest seasonal dry tropical forest in South America, has been experiencing significant environmental disturbances due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and increasing energy infrastructure installation. These changes can impact local biodiversity, particularly aspects of natural history, such as trophic ecology. This study investigates the diet of Oxyrhopus trigeminus (the Brazilian false coral snake) in the Caatinga biome of northeastern Brazil, combining a literature review and an analysis of stomach and intestinal contents of 48 specimens. Our findings confirm that the species primarily preys on lizards, particularly Tropidurus hispidus and Ameivula ocellifera, which are among the most abundant lizards in the semiarid region of the Caatinga. Additionally, we report for the first time the presence of Micrablepharus maximiliani in the diet of O. trigeminus. The study also documents the ingestion of plastic fragments, highlighting a growing concern regarding pollution in natural environments and its potential effects on trophic interactions. As part of the study, weight and morphometric data were collected from all examined specimens; although not the primary focus, these measurements are included as supplementary information, given their potential value for future comparative and ecological analyses. Given the increasing habitat alterations in the Caatinga, changes in prey availability may potentially affect the dietary patterns of Oxyrhopus trigeminus and other snake species. Despite the limited sample size, our findings highlight the importance of baseline dietary data and underscore the need for long-term monitoring to better understand how environmental changes may influence predator-prey dynamics and the ecological stability of semiarid ecosystems.
["Brazilian false coral snake"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Date Palm Research Studies"]

The Trichoptera of Panama XXVIII. Nine new species of microcaddisflies (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae)
In this study, we describe and illustrate nine new species of microcaddisflies: Oxyethira jaramillo sp. nov., Neotrichia afuera sp. nov., Neotrichia aguirrei sp. nov., Neotrichia betegui sp. nov., Neotrichia rancheria sp. nov., Neotrichia sona sp. nov., Metrichia riosi sp. nov., Ochrotrichia mariettae sp. nov. and Ochrotrichia martinez sp. nov. The majority of these new species were collected on the Soná Peninsula or offshore on the Coiba National Park islands. With these additions, there are now 544 species of caddisflies known from Panama, distributed amongst 15 families and 56 genera.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Details of a non-fatal human-crocodile interaction in the Laguna del Carpintero, Tampico, Mexico
Human-crocodile interaction in the Laguna del Carpintero, Tampico, Tamaulipas, Mexico has been a growing concern for the last several years, with homeless people being the most affected, although individuals of fixed address have also been involved. The objective of this document is to describe in detail a case of non-fatal human-crocodile interaction in this lagoon and the response of the SOS Crocodile Tampico working group. To document the case, we collected information on the interaction, the causative crocodile and the affected person. On June 8, 2024 a male person was involved in a non-fatal interaction with a 278 cm long crocodile, which caused a fracture in his left leg, requiring him to be transported to the nearest hospital. This event activated the first response team who provided pre-hospital and hospital care; search and capture of the crocodile involved, as well as the custody, handling and final disposal of the crocodile into captivity. Therefore, we consider that inter-institutional coordination between federal, state, municipal, health and crocodile specialists, integrated as the SOS Crocodile working group, is fundamental to rapidly and efficiently attend the interactions with crocodiles in urban areas.
["First response protocol"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Marine animal studies overview", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Development of lip protrusion in trahira, Hoplias malabaricus (Bloch, 1794), associated with aquatic surface respiration
The histological organization of labial development of trahira Hoplias malabaricus found in a drying pool was compared with normal fish from a similar environment. It was found that labial development was not associated with any visible histological change in key tissues. We hypothesize that the fish had been recently trapped in the pool (for a few weeks) and did not have the time to respond to the stressful conditions, and that the labial development was not associated with increase in respiration surface area but rather may serve to channel oxygen-rich surface water more efficiently into the mouth chamber.
["Drylands"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquaculture Nutrition and Growth"]

New records of domestic dog negative impacts on native vertebrates in the Ecuadorian Andes
Domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) significantly threaten endangered vertebrates worldwide. In this study, we report 11 documented cases of dogs chasing, harassing, competing for food resources, biting, and killing six native vertebrate species in the Ecuadorian Andes: Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque), little red brocket deer (Mazama rufina), Andean fox (Lycalopex culpaeus), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and Andean tapeti (Sylvilagus andinus). Dog attacks on wildlife can lead to mortality through direct injury and by transmitting diseases, potentially threatening the conservation of globally endangered species such as the Andean condor, mountain tapir, and little red brocket deer. Effective management and conservation of native vertebrates in Andean ecosystems require a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impacts of dogs on wildlife populations. These impacts include direct attacks, disease transmission, fear-induced behavioral changes, competition for food resources, and conflicts with local farmers, which may inadvertently lead to wildlife poisoning.
["Human-Animal Interaction Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

First report of Halomicrobium mukohataei in Mexico and its biological activity
Haloarchaea produce metabolites of biotechnological importance and grow in hypersaline environments such as coastal lagoons, marine solar salterns, natural brines, and salt lakes. Haloarchaeal compounds from hypersaline environments in Mexico have been scarcely studied. This research aimed to identify a haloarchaea isolate and evaluate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic properties of the culture’s biomass pigments (BPs) and supernatant pigments (SPs). One extremely halophilic archaeal strain designated AS8 was isolated from brine samples of the Bahía de Lobos coastal lagoon, Sonora, and identified as Halomicrobium mukohataei based on analyses of the 16S rRNA gene. The SPs showed the best free radical scavenging activity on DPPH and ABTS assays, with 74 and 67% inhibition values, respectively. The extracts also showed significant antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria with inhibition halos between 7 to 17 mm. Cytotoxic activity of extracts using nauplii of Artemia salina showed CL50 850 µg/mL to SPs and > 1000 µg/mL to BPs. This work represents the first isolation study of H. mukohataei from Bahía de Lobos lagoon. Likewise, H. mukohataei is an alternative source of natural pigments with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic properties, which have potential in biomedical applications and the development of new drugs.
["Haloarchaea"]
["Microbial Metabolites in Food Biotechnology", "Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Extreme fighting and vocalisations in Tapirus bairdii: observations from aguadas of Calakmul, social arenas for the species
We report and describe unusual types of behaviour of fighting and whistling in a species considered shy and calm. Baird’s tapir is the largest of all Neotropical mammals and lives in dense well-conserved tropical forests in America. For ten years, in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve of Southern Mexico, we have monitored a tapir population in ponds locally named aguadas that serve as social arenas for the species. Recently, we obtained 97 video records in which some tapirs get involved in serious fights and perform other types of behaviour related probably to courtship, including several types of whistles. We describe what we recorded and interpret these types of behaviour whenever possible. These rare types of tapir behaviour can explain several of the wounds and scars on many adults of the population and help us better understand the social dynamics of this shy and endangered species of Neotropical ungulate. We hope that all this information can help tapir conservation.
["Maya Forest"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Predation of Ambystoma altamirani (Caudata, Ambystomatidae) by Thamnophis scaliger (Squamata, Colubridae) and Crotalus triseriatus (Squamata, Viperidae) in Nevado de Toluca Volcano, Central Mexico
This study reports two notable predation events involving Thamnophis scaliger (Jan 1863) and Crotalus triseriatus (Wagler 1830), which target Ambystoma altamirani (Dugès 1895), a critically endangered salamander species endemic to high-altitude streams in central Mexico. In the first event, T. scaliger was observed to capture and consume A. altamirani by removing the salamander from its aquatic habitat and consuming it on land – a behavior that underscores the adaptability of the snake to handling aquatic prey. In the second instance, C. triseriatus exhibited attempted predation in a montane stream, swimming in pursuit of the salamander but ultimately failing to capture it. These observations provide critical insights into predator–prey dynamics in montane ecosystems, highlighting the ecological pressures faced by A. altamirani. Furthermore, the documentation of these events expands our understanding of the feeding behaviors of T. scaliger and C. triseriatus, emphasizing their potential impact on vulnerable amphibian populations. This study underscores the necessity of further ecological research to assess the frequency and ecological consequences of such interactions, as well as their implications for the conservation of endangered amphibians in high-altitude habitats.
["Endangered amphibians"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

First record of leucism in the Spix’s disc-winged bat, Thyroptera tricolor (Chiroptera, Thyropteridae), in Belize
Although chromatic disorders are widely reported in the animal kingdom, few reports of true leucism have been published in Neotropical bats. In this note we report our observations of a leucistic Thyroptera tricolor Spix (Spix’s Disc-winged Bat) in the Maya Mountains of the Stann Creek District of Belize, Central America. Observations made between March 2023 and April 2024 at the Toucan Ridge Ecology and Education Society (T.R.E.E.S) research station recorded a group of Thyroptera tricolor with a leucistic male identified on three separate occasions. Our observations are the first documented account of leucism for this species and the Thyropteridae family.
["Albinism"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Unusual importance of insectivory in the diet of the Neotropical otter, Lontra annectens (Major, 1897) (Mammalia, Carnivora)
The Neotropical otter, Lontra annectens, is a predator specialized in aquatic prey, and the main diet of this otter is fish, supplemented mainly by crustaceans and opportunistically by mollusks, insects, and vertebrates such as mammals, amphibians, birds, and reptiles. Occasionally, they eat fruits. This study was conducted on the El Despoblado River near Villa Comaltitlán, in southern Chiapas. We carried out monthly visits along the riverbanks to collect otter scats from April 2018 to April 2019 and found that insects make up more than half of the diet of otters living in this river. Although insects are a common food in the diet of Neotropical otters, the abundant presence of hellgrammites (dobsonfly larvae; Insecta, Megaloptera) had not been recorded before. Otters were found to consume hellgrammites, which are abundant, easy to catch, and have a high nutritional value. This is probably due to the scarce availability of fish and crustaceans in this part of Chiapas.
["Chiapas"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Rabbits: Nutrition, Reproduction, Health", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Remarkable records of jaguars and Andean bears in northwestern Ecuador: Implications for human-wildlife conflicts
Jaguar populations (Panthera onca) on the Ecuadorian coast are critically endangered, with only a few dozen individuals remaining in the region. In some areas, no records have been documented for decades. Between November 2023 and January 2024, independent camera trap monitoring in northwestern Ecuador yielded evidence of the presence of a jaguar, marking a significant recovery after seven years of absence in Manduriacu and at least 15 years in Junín. The jaguar was observed moving through an area of approximately 25 km, traversing forested and human-altered zones. Furthermore, additional evidence from the Ecominga Foundation and the Cielo Verde community indicated the occurrence of livestock attacks, which aligns with the typical predatory patterns observed in jaguar behavior. The attack site was located approximately 8 km from where the jaguar was initially recorded, suggesting that both events refer to the same individual. In response, local authorities inspected the area and organized community workshops. Furthermore, an Andean bear was recorded in Manduriacu during the same sampling period, confirming the co-occurrence of both species in the area. The documented movement of this jaguar, along with the presence of other species, underscores the imperative need to continue research and conservation initiatives in the region. These initiatives will ensure the protection and coexistence of wildlife and human populations in this highly biodiverse region.
["Endangered"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Seasonal variation of bat activity in an endangered temperate forest in the Chilean biodiversity hotspot
Bats play an integral key ecological role in forests, but there is limited understanding of how their richness and activity vary over time in temperate forests and the effect of habitat variables on these species. Herein we describe the seasonal variation of bat species richness, activity and assemblage structure during the reproductive season in a sclerophyllous forest, an endangered temperate Mediterranean forest located in Chile’s biodiversity hotspot. Additionally, we explored the relationship between bat activity and environmental variables (air temperature, vegetation cover, and proximity to water bodies). Species richness and bat activity varied during the breeding season and exhibited two peaks: spring and summer end, markedly decreasing in mid-summer. During spring, the bat assemblage exhibited greater species richness, diversity and evenness, whereas from the end of summer until autumn, both diversity and evenness decreased. Monthly average air temperatures had a positive association with total bat activity, although there was evidence of a threshold temperature over which bat activity significantly decreased. Canopy cover had a negative influence on the activity of Tadarida brasiliensis and Lasiurus varius, whereas increasing distance to water bodies was associated with a lower activity of T. brasiliensis and L. villosissimus. Our study demonstrates that bat diversity and bat activity vary greatly during the reproductive season in an endangered temperate forest, highlighting the importance of knowing seasonal patterns and evidencing that multiple surveys will improve our understanding of bat communities. This study provides relevant information to aid bat monitoring and conservation in the biodiversity hotspot of central Chile.
["Air temperature"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview", "Effects of Environmental Stressors on Livestock"]

Butterfly community composition along a vegetation gradient in the Sierra Chiquita, Mexico
This study compares the variation of richness, abundance, and diversity of butterfly species for vegetation communities along an elevational gradient and during different seasons in the Priority Region for Conservation of Biodiversity, Sierra Chiquita, located in the northeast of Mexico. We also analyze the influence of environmental variables on the abundance and richness of butterfly species. Seven sampling sites were established based on criteria of vegetation distribution per altitudinal gradient. Sampling was on a monthly basis and carried out in six permanent plots at each site, using an aerial entomological net during November 2015 to October 2016. A total of 38,011 specimens, representing six families and 195 species, were collected. All parameter values showed significant differences across sites, except between thorn forest and gallery forest. Seasonality effect was absent on richness and diversity species; however, for species abundance, the differences between dry season and rainy season were significantly different in each site except for the comparison of thorn forest and gallery forest. The association between the environmental variables and butterfly communities in the elevational gradient was significant, being the dew point, the solar radiation, the canopy leaf area, and the number of flowering plants the most important variables. The present work represents an important contribution of the vegetation communities variation in richness, abundance, and diversity of butterflies in the northeast of Mexico. These results highlight the importance of the conservation of this heterogeneous habitat and establish reference data for the diurnal Lepidoptera fauna of the region.
["Community patterns"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Characterization of bone lesions and bone mineral density of roadkilled wild animals in the Brazilian semi-arid
Highways are one of the anthropogenic factors that have the greatest impact on terrestrial biodiversity. Barriers, depletion effects, and roads are the most common locations of wild animal roadkill, leading to biodiversity loss in wild vertebrates. However, the corpses of these animals can be used as opportunistic samples, an excellent source of information on topics such as population dynamics, which is one of the aims of road ecology. Nonetheless, there are only a few studies on injuries in roadkilled wild animals. Between 2018 and 2021, road monitoring was performed around three Federal Conservation Units in Brazil. Twenty-four animals, including birds, reptiles, and mammals, were collected. This study aims to characterize the lesions in wild animals that were roadkilled on roads in the Brazilian semi-arid region using necropsy and quantitative computed tomography (QCT). Also, the bone mineral density was measured using QCT and compared with the number of lesions and body condition score. Four types of bone lesions were found in 13 different bones, with an average of 3.25 lesions per bird and 3.75 lesions per reptile and mammal, with no statistical difference between the means (p > 0.05). Providing a database on the main injuries found in wild animals that are frequently roadkilled serves as an aid to wildlife rescue and rehabilitation professionals who contribute to the conservation of species. In addition, the data on road ecology serves as a basis for the implementation of mitigation measures against wildlife roadkills, also contributing to the conservation of species.
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Genetic and phenotypic traits in livestock"]

Abundance, diet and food availability of Citreoline Trogon (Trogon citreolus) in a regenerating tropical dry forest in the Central Pacific, Mexico
Trogonidae make up a family of birds with a mixed diet composed of fruit and animal matter. However, there is little research examining the foraging ecology of Trogon citreolus in regenerating tropical forest. We studied T. citreolus abundance and diet from November 2020 to April 2022 in a regenerating dry tropical forest of Central Pacific Mexico. Also, we investigate the relationship between food availability and trogon abundance. The relative trogon abundance was 2.6 ± 2.3 individuals per point count, which varied temporally. The species consumed the fruits of 14 plant species from 10 families. The three most consumed species were Ficus cotinifolia, Comocladia engleriana, and Randia gentlei. Trogon citreolus displayed a moderate niche breadth (Best = 0. 420) whit low food diet diversity (H’ = 0.94), and the dominance of a particular type of food (λ = 0.85). Our results demonstrated a positive correlation between trogon abundance and food resource availability. The dietary breadth of T. citreolus enable the species to adapt to fluctuations in fruit availability in regenerating forests. These findings highlight the ecological importance of forest regeneration in providing food resources for T. citreolus and other frugivorous birds.
["Frugivorous birds"]
["Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Mating of the Amazon racerunner (Ameiva praesignis) (Squamata, Teiidae) in Panama
Polygyny is common among lizards, and sexual dimorphism in coloration and size influences sexual selection by females. Courtship and copulation include ritualized behaviors such as chasing, cloacal rubbing, and head bobbing, observed especially in the family Teiidae. Ameiva praesignis, a diurnal Neotropical lizard, inhabits various terrestrial habitats in Central America, and juveniles have bright blue tails that they lose as they mature. During a mating event, the male and female were observed to remain motionless during copulation, followed by a dominant posture by the male, while another smaller male watched them without intervening. This behavior suggests that males guard females to reduce competition and increase reproductive success. Marked sexual dimorphism was noted, with larger, more corpulent males and intense coloration. The courtship and mating behaviors of A. praesignis are like those of A. ameiva, perhaps suggesting that they are characters that are fixed at the genus level. Although mating events are common, in some species they are poorly documented, highlighting the influence of size and coloration on sexual selection.
["competition"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Sleeping site sharing between Aotus griseimembra (Mammalia, Primates) and Coendou quichua (Mammalia, Rodentia) in a lowland inter-Andean valley in Colombia
Tree cavities used as sleeping sites are a limited resource for arboreal mammals. The shared use of arboreal cavities as sleeping sites between Neotropical mammals is rarely observed and has been little studied. We documented an event of sleeping site sharing between two medium-sized mammals, the Caribbean night monkey (Aotus griseimembra) and the Quichua porcupine (Coendou quichua), recorded in the humid lowland forests of the inter-Andean basin of the Magdalena River in the eastern part of the Department of Caldas, Colombia. The sleeping site sharing occurred in an avocado tree (Persea americana) over a period of three days and included an agonistic encounter between the two species. The group of Caribbean night monkeys was always near one of the two cavity entrances, entering near sunrise and leaving near sunset, while the two Quichua porcupines were inside the cavity, in different positions, and remained in the sleeping site even after dusk and before dawn. This study provides new information on the interaction between night monkeys and porcupines, and on the sharing of tree cavities as sleeping sites.
["Aotidae"]
["Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Back to the wild: Post-translocation GPS monitoring of a rehabilitated ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) in a forest-agriculture matrix in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
The sparsity of post-translocation monitoring data for rehabilitated felids leaves a pressing gap in our current understanding of their integration into and use of novel landscapes. Remote monitoring tools such as GPS collars can provide crucial insights into animal movement behavior and habitat selection following translocation and assist in the decision-making process for rehabilitation and release sites. In January 2023, a young male ocelot was released on the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica, after eight months of rehabilitation following a vehicle strike. Six months of post-translocation monitoring using a GPS and VHF-enabled collar revealed distinctive spatial patterns between the ocelot’s initial exploratory phase (~75 days) and subsequent residential period, as well as a selection for agricultural-forest matrix habitat over primary forest. We discuss the findings in terms of learning lessons for future post-release monitoring effects and provide insight into an individual’s patterns of habitat selection in an anthropogenically modified landscape.
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

Use of latrines and territorial marking behaviors by Subulo gouazoubira in a remnant of the Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil
The chemical communication signals the presence of individuals and territorial occupation, providing information about identity, sex, and reproductive status. This study aimed to characterize the use of latrines by the gray brocket deer, Subulo gouazoubira, in a remnant of the Atlantic Forest located in southeastern Brazil, as well as to describe its territorial marking behaviors, contributing to a better understanding of the species’ social communication strategies. Four monitoring points were used, but latrine use was recorded at only two of them. Twenty-seven independent records of S. gouazoubira were obtained, totaling 29 specimens recorded, comprising 59% males, 28% females, and 14% deer with undetermined sex. Twenty-five interactions with latrines and five types of behavior were recorded: defecation, urination, front paw scratching against the ground, tail shaking, and sniffing the area near the latrine. Among the recorded behaviors, 56% were performed by females, 40% by males, and 4% by specimens with undetermined sex. There was variation in the types and frequency of behaviors recorded, indicating that territorial marking behavior might be variable between latrines. Latrine use also varied temporally concerning the time of day when behaviors were recorded and the interval between records of odoriferous marking at the same latrine. Differences in latrine use between males and females were also observed, suggesting intersexual variations in territorial marking strategy. The obtained results, although limited to a few sampling points, suggest complexity in territorial marking behavior and interaction with latrines in S. gouazoubira, highlighting spatial differences, distinct temporal dynamics, and variations between sexes.
["Chemical communication"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

New records on the distribution of the Mexclapique, Girardinichthys viviparus (Bustamante, 1837) (Cyprinodontiformes, Goodeidae), an endangered species in Mexico
The “Mexclapique” Girardinichthys viviparus, is a goodeid endemic to the Valley of Mexico basin. This species is endangered following habitat alterations due to urbanization and pollution in central Mexico over the last 70 years, which has contributed to its population decline. From collections in the aquatic systems of Tlaxcala, 160 juveniles and adults of G. viviparus were captured (17.9–53.4 standard length) in six sites located in the upper basins of the Moctezuma and Atoyac rivers and extended its distribution to the east of the state of Tlaxcala in the Tecolutla River basin. Its presence in these sites may be the result of the processes of expansion, adaptation and establishment that the species has had in central Mexico, as well as the intercommunication through artificial channels in some of these lakes. These new records of G. viviparus are vital as they provide information about the prevailing populations in habitats in a region that has experimented with anthropogenic activities conjointly with the loss of aquatic systems. Besides, the lack of aquatic biodiversity preservation projects in Tlaxcala does not guarantee its long-term conservation.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Report of coloration anomalies in mammals from Panama
Coloration anomalies are widespread across the animal kingdom; however, they pass underreported for some taxa or are extremely rare, like in the case of mammals. Three of those anomalies are albinism, leucism, and erythrism, each of which generates atypical colorations in white with white spots and reddish-brown, respectively. Here, we report five cases of coloration anomalies in mammals from Panama: 1) albinism in the Derby’s woolly opossum (Caluromys derbianus Waterhouse, 1841), the lowland Paca (Cuniculus paca Linnaeus, 1766), and the variegated squirrel (Echinosciurus variegatoides Ogilby, 1839). 2) leucism in the Central American agouti (Dasyprocta punctata J. E. Gray, 1842), and 3) erythrism in the northern Tamandua (Tamandua mexicana Saussure, 1860). We discuss some implications of these observations and the importance of gathering this type of data for developing more complex studies in the future.
["Albinism"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "melanin and skin pigmentation"]

Marine nematodes of Costa Rica: state of the art
Nematoda is the fourth most diverse animal phylum and is widely distributed. Marine nematodes are generally the most speciose group of meiofauna, yet there are relatively few studies on the taxonomy and biodiversity of free living marine nematodes. Here we present a review of the existing scientific literature and data in international databases on marine nematodes of Costa Rica. Most of the papers currently available mentioned Nematoda as the most abundant phylum in terms of the number of individuals within sand samples, nonetheless, only three publications included taxonomic data such as the description of new species or new records. Most publications are for the Pacific coast and we found only one paper for the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Large sections of the coasts and almost all the Exclusive Economic Zone remain unexplored in terms of nematode diversity, abundance and ecological role. Ten species, five free-living and five parasitic species, have been reported from the coasts of Costa Rica. Several reports indicate the presence of nematodes without further identification. More effort should be dedicated to the taxonomic identification of nematodes since, in addition to being the most abundant group, they can also be used as biological indicators.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Cassava research and cyanide"]

The Trichoptera of Panama XXVII. The third benchmark—a waypoint to the future
The flora and fauna of Panama is species-rich due to its location and topography, and the resulting diversity of microclimates and habitats. The last two summaries (benchmarks) of information about the caddisfly fauna (Insecta, Trichoptera) Panama were published in1992 and 2015. From 1861 to 2015, researchers from outside of Panama recorded 13 families, 45 genera, and 257 species of caddisflies. From 2015 through 2023, a series of publications by the Aquatic Invertebrate Research Group at the Universidad Autónoma de Chiriquí in David, Panamá have recorded an additional 2 families,11 genera, and 278 species. Thus, a total of 535 species of caddisflies, now recorded from the Republic of Panama, are distributed among 15 families and 56 genera. Panama’s Trichoptera fauna shows greatest affinity to other Central American countries, and to Costa Rica in particular. Indeed, 289 Costa Rican species are shared with Panama, including 91 former Costa Rican endemics now known from both countries. The Hydroptilidae is the most species rich family in Panama. Although the number of new species and new country records of macro-Trichoptera has diminished somewhat over this third benchmark period, no similar fall-off has yet been detected in the micro-Trichoptera. The caddisfly fauna of Panama is now better known, but much more work remains to define the fauna and, just as importantly, to map the surficial and altitudinal distribution of each genus and species.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Dispersal capacity as assessed by distance-decay relationships is lower for aquatic shredder insects than aquatic non-shredder insects in a Neotropical river network
Aquatic shredder insect diversity declines latitudinally toward the equator, contrary to the general latitudinal biodiversity gradient. Shredder diversity along tropical elevational gradients mimics this shredder latitudinal pattern. One of the hypotheses proposed to explain this pattern of diversity is that dispersal capacity drives variation in shredder assemblages given their low dispersal capacity in tropical streams. Additionally, tropical shredders probably have lower dispersal capacity than the rest of tropical aquatic insects, which have lower dispersal capacities than their counterparts in temperate areas. We tested this hypothesis in an elevational gradient of more than 2000 m in 16 reaches of streams distributed in the Usumacinta, Cahabon, and Polochic river watersheds. We quantitatively sampled aquatic insects and measured 12 environmental variables. We found a regional pool of 118 taxa, with 13 taxa classified as shredders, and 2 taxa of predator-shredders. Contrary to expectations, shredder rarefied richness decreased with increasing elevation, which suggests that dispersal capacity did not change with elevation. Assemblage similarity decreased with increasing distance between reaches due to low capacity to fly long distances. This relationship had a smaller slope when using the shortest spatial distances between pairs of reaches due to potential lateral scatter by flying adults. In sum, the results support the hypothesis that dispersal capacity drove aquatic shredder assemblage structure in these 16 tropical streams.
["Bayesian linear models"]

Ants in the clouds: A preliminary checklist of the ant (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) fauna of a Honduran cloud forest ecosystem, featuring a key to country genera
Ant diversity in tropical montane rainforests is globally understudied. This is true for Cusuco National Park (CNP), a cloud forest ecosystem in northwestern Honduras that supports geographically isolated and threatened habitats. The current study presents the first comprehensive ant species checklist for CNP, which is also the first ant checklist for Honduras in over a century. Species records from several projects are also combined and presented. Sampling occurred along an elevational range (mainly between 1170 and 2030 m a.s.l.), with methodologies and intensities varying among projects and dates. Overall, 162 ant species belonging to nine subfamilies and 60 genera are reported from the CNP. Five species are recorded for the first time in Honduras (Pheidole natalie Longino, 2019; Strumigenys cf. calamita; Solenopsis invicta Buren, 1972; Solenopsis texana/carolinensis; Pseudomyrmex pallens Mayr, 1870). For the first time, male individuals are reported in Pheidole balatro Longino, 2019. For each species, we provide information on observed habitat preference, elevational range, and sampling technique. Species accumulation curves are provided for each sample technique, representing sampling intensity and community sample coverage. We also provide a key to the ant genera of Honduras to aid future taxonomic efforts in the country. Our research demonstrates that CNP harbours a surprisingly rich diversity of ant species, despite its small area, similar to many other taxa in the park. The information provided here represents baseline information for future work on ants in CNP and other Honduran cloud forests and will help guide research in these otherwise poorly explored yet highly threatened ecosystems.

A record of a non-fatal attack of an American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in the “Rio Segovia” on the Honduras-Nicaragua border
A case of a non-fatal crocodile attack on a human was reported on the banks of the Segovia River on the Honduras and Nicaragua border. The 12-year-old girl survived the attack, only with damage to the tibia of her right leg, where she lost part of the muscle tissue due to the bite. It was after the attack that the American crocodile was shot and killed by local people. In this paper, we discuss the possible causes of crocodile attacks.
["Bite"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

New records of two marsupials (Didelphimorphia, Didelphidae) and conservation notes from southern Mexico
In Mexico opossums are difficult to find, and much of their natural history, ecology, and behavior are unknown. Through photographic and visual records, we obtained data on the presence of two species of marsupials in southern Mexico. We report new municipal records of Derby’s woolly opossum, Caluromys derbianus in Veracruz, and new municipal records of the Gray four-eyed opossum Philander opossum for Oaxaca, Veracruz, and Chiapas. Local mammal records are crucial for understanding the biology and ecology of species, as well as identifying its threats.
["Caluromys"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

New records of Neogale frenata and Potos flavus from Sierra Madre de Oaxaca, Mexico
We provide new records of Neogale frenata and Potos flavus, two carnivores with elusive behaviors that are challenging to observe in their natural habitats. Through direct records compiled in diurnal and nocturnal monitoring over three years, we record two individuals of N. frenata, a juvenile and an adult, and three individuals of P. flavus, an adult and two juveniles. The juvenile of N. frenata increases the distribution range to 68 km from its nearest record. The two juveniles of Potos flavus represent an extension of their distribution range of 22 km away from their nearest record. This new data highlights the importance of opportunistic records in combination with passive methods as part of fauna inventories. We emphasize the relevance of considering the habitat conditions of each record to identify possible threats to their conservation, like human disturbances.
["Carnivora"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Herpetofauna of Laguna Blanca National Park, Argentinean Patagonia: species list and conservation status
Laguna Blanca National Park (LBNP) is located in the mid-west of Neuquén Province, Argentina. It was created in 1940 with the aim of conserving the nesting and breeding habitats of an important diversity of birds. Until now, there have been no exclusive works that address the herpetofauna present. The aim of this article is to provide an updated inventory of reptile and amphibian species in LBNP. We used four sources of information to create the species list: 1) data coming from field observations; 2) specimens deposited in herpetological collections; 3) scientific literature review; 4) online biodiversity databases. We confirm the occurrence of 18 species of herpetofauna in LBNP, including 13 reptiles and 5 amphibians. We also included six species with probable presence according to the range of distribution and habitat similarity. We added the conservation status of the national and international lists for each species. Five species are in some threat category at the national (Vulnerable, Endangered) or international level (Endangered, Critically Endangered). Seven taxa are listed as “Species of Vertebrates of Special Value” by the Administración de Parques Nacionales. Despite being protected within a national park, the herpetofauna present face threats such as prolonged drought events, habitat modification due to the presence of livestock, introduced exotic species, and emerging diseases. Conservation efforts are imperative to protect these species and mitigate their threats.
["amphibians"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

The Trichoptera of Panama. XXV. Eight new country records of caddisflies (Insecta, Trichoptera)
Herein we add eight new country records to Panama’s caddisfly fauna (Insecta, Trichoptera): Hydropsychidae – Leptonema turrialbum Flint, McAlpine & Ross, 1987; Polycentropodidae – Polyplectropus bravoae Bueno-Soria, 1990; Hydroptilidae – Mayatrichia ayama Mosely, 1937 and Bredinia selva Harris, Holzenthal & Flint, 2002; Glossosomatidae – Mortoniella stilula Blahnik & Holzenthal, 2008; Anomalopsychidae – Contulma talamanca Holzenthal & Flint, 1995; Helicopsychidae – Helicospyche planata Ross, 1956; and Odontoceridae – Marilia crea Mosely, 1949. The Republic of Panama now has 533 species of caddisflies distributed among 15 families and 56 genera.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Howling shadows: First report of domestic dog attacks on globally threatened mountain tapirs in high Andean cloud forests of Colombia
Domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are recognised worldwide not only as man’s best friend, but also as a form of anthropogenic edge effect impacting wildlife through predation, competition and disease infection. In the Northern Andes, there is growing evidence of dogs inducing activity shifts or alterations in the habitat use of native mammalian species. However, little information exists on direct attacks of dogs on wildlife, even in the case of species of conservation concern such as the mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque). Here, we used camera traps to report two cases of dogs chasing and attacking mountain tapirs in a protected area of the Central Andes of Colombia. The first event showed a direct physical contact between a living adult mountain tapir and two dogs, but the picture’s angle did not lead to observable signs of wounds or other injuries. The second event showed an adult mountain tapir running while being chased by the same two dogs of the first event, denoting a stressful moment for the tapir. This may have negative consequences on the populations of mountain tapirs through decreased reproductive performance and foraging efficiency, increased potential for disease outbreaks and more. Population management and control of domestic dogs inside and around protected areas must be considered a priority in future conservation actions to support a healthy population of mountain tapirs and other imperilled species in the region.
["anthropogenic edge effect"]
["Human-Animal Interaction Studies", "Rabies epidemiology and control", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿Sensitisation, research and management for conservation within ESPOL University forests after the COVID-19 pandemic, Ecuador
Non sustainable land uses are disturbing natural habitats and wild animals’ ecology worldwide. Nevertheless, the sensitisation of key actors combined with research and a consequent management can influence decision-making and improve animals’ well-being. COVID-19 has influenced the number of interactions with wildlife in urban environments and the ESPOL Polytechnic University is a university campus that holds forested areas in Guayaquil, Ecuador. We implemented an environmental education course with an empathetic approach for the security guards of the university. We used questionnaires to evaluate their attitudes and knowledge on wildlife before and after the sensitisation course. In addition, we registered the incidences of native fauna resulting from the guards’ collaborations and we designed management strategies according to the data gathered. The guards showed an improvement in their knowledge of the issues covered (n = 81–87; X̄ = 163.4%) and an increased preference for wild and native fauna after the sensitisation course (n = 67; 151.6%). Furthermore, the collaborations of guards with the Biodiversity Unit of the university concerning animal-human interactions increased, as did the supporting actions towards the well-being of native animals. Moreover, the information about direct and indirect interactions with wildlife included reports on traces of large to medium animal activity and a record of illegal hunting of Choloepus hoffmanni for bushmeat consumption. Obtained data sustained adaptive management actions such as signalling and restrictions in use. We recommend educating key actors with an empathetic approach, developing critical skills and promoting collaborations to reduce human impacts in wild areas.
["Awareness"]
["Animal and Plant Science Education", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿Comparing diversity of the terrestrial mammal communities inhabiting native forests and exotic plantations in southern Chile
The mammal community of the Coastal Range of southern Chile has been little studied even though they inhabit an environment under severe threats due to anthropic disturbance. During the spring-summer seasons of 2020–2021 and 2021–2022, we characterized the communities of wild terrestrial mammals in a native forest (NF) and an exotic plantation of Eucalyptus (PL) of the Coastal Range of Osorno province by phototrapping. We used 1,060 camera-trap days in the NF and 960 camera-trap days in the PL to explore the effect of habitat type on wild mammal diversity in two localities (L-1 and L-2). We quantified the species richness, abundance, community similarity and daily distribution of mammal communities. Species richness was higher in the NF (7–8 spp) than in the PL (3–4 spp). Two community similarity index (CSI) was significantly higher between native forests (CSI = 0.728 ± 0.088) than between Eucalyptus plantations (CSI = 0.211 ± 0.097) (95% CI). Mean abundance was also higher in the NF than in the PL (L-1: 0.011 vs. 0.004 occurrence/camera-trap day (OCT); L-2: 0.008 vs. 0.004 OCT). In L-1, the most abundant mammals in the NF were Leopardus guigna (45.3% of relative occurrence (RO)) and Pudu puda (18.9% RO), and in the PL, they were Lycalopex culpaeus (50% RO) and L. guigna (37.5% RO). In L-2, the highest abundances in the NF were for P. puda (34.5% RO) and Puma concolor (27.6% RO), while in the PL, P. puda was predominant (66.7% RO). In NF of both localities, 22.2% of melanic L. guigna individuals were observed. The highest frequency of occurrences in both locations was between 12:00 and 23:59 hours, with 60% and 76.9% of detections, respectively. The species richness found in native forest is in accordance with studies carried out in other temperate rainforests of southern Chile. In addition, native forests support a richer and more similar community of terrestrial mammals than exotic forest plantations, which indicates that native forests are the main habitat for most mammals detected and that exotic plantations function as a complementary habitat for some species.
["abundance"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

﻿The Trichoptera of Panama. XXVI. Status of the genus Protoptila (Trichoptera, Glossosomatidae)
The caddisfly genus Protoptila (Trichoptera, Glossosomatidae) in Panama is currently represented by 15 species, including four endemic species and 11 species also found in Costa Rica. The shared occurrences of Panamanian species with other countries in the region are minimal. Herein, we describe and illustrate a new species, Protoptila harrisi sp. nov., and add one new country record, Protoptila bribri Holzenthal & Blahnik, 2006. These additions are the result of several projects conducted by the Aquatic Invertebrate Research Group at the Universidad Autónoma de Chiriquí. The Republic of Panama now has 17 species of Protoptila and 535 species of caddisflies distributed among 15 families and 56 genera.
["Biological diversity"]

﻿Climatic signals on phenological patterns among tree species in a subtropical forest community
The study of vegetative and reproductive phenophases of plants is critical for understanding aspects related to plant behavior in different environments. In the tropics, there is a gap of understanding related to plant phenology since the theoretical framework on the topic has been built from perspectives of the temperate region. Furthermore, there are few studies in tropical regions influenced by anthropic conditions, which may be important for understanding these issues in the face of future climate scenarios. This study aimed to describe the vegetative and reproductive phenology of trees in an urban subtropical forest community and to test the influence of climatic variables on the tree community. In an urban forest fragment in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, eight individuals of locally dominant species were monitored: Allophylus edulis, Casearia sylvestris, Guarea macrophylla, Mimosa bimucronata, Myrsine coriacea, Myrsine umbellata, Schinus glandulosum, and Schinus terebinthifolia. The monitoring occurred every two weeks, for two years, with the recording of the presence of leaf flushing, leaf shedding, flowering, and fruiting phenophases for each tree. The seasonality of the species was tested using the Rayleigh test. We described the common pattern of community phenological activity by a Principal Component Analysis. Finally, we correlated the common patterns of each phenophase in the community with climatic variables of total precipitation, average temperature, and day length. All species showed a non-uniform phenological pattern for the evaluated phenophases despite the variable intensity. We evidenced common patterns for the community only for the vegetative phenophases. The reproductive phenophases of flowering and fruiting present themselves independently among species in the community. Finally, we identified influences only of temperature and day length on the vegetative phenophases.
["Animal and Plant Science Education", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿A case of leucosis in Heptapterus mustelinus (Siluriformes, Heptapteridae) among populations of streams in southern Brazil. Has leucosis in Heptapterus mustelinus an adaptive value in shaded streams?
Fish populations in environments with a high degree of geographic isolation may be prone to mutations expressed in the phenotypes. These mutations may be related to color pattern, forming leucistic individuals. This work aims to register and to describe possible mechanisms that influence this mutation. Additionally, the study compares other morphometric variations among different populations and leucistic individuals of Heptapterus mustelinus. A total of four leucistic individuals were collected in a small shaded stream, highly segmented by rapids and waterfalls. The biometric analyses showed no significant morphological differences when compared to other populations of the same ecoregion. The selection of leucism may be directly related to the sampled environment, since the leucistic specimens occurred in a shaded stream with dense vegetation cover. Low occurrence of predatory species of fish can be an important point to maintain the characteristic. Consequently, predation may not exert a negative selective pressure on leucistic individuals.
["Catfish"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquaculture disease management and microbiota"]

﻿Land planarians (Platyhelminthes) also prey on web-building spiders
Although spiders and land planarians constitute diverse groups of terrestrial predators, interactions between them are still unknown. Here, we describe a predatory event of a land planarian (Choeradoplana cf. gladismariae) on a web-building spider (Helvibis longicauda) in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The prey was constricted and covered with sticky mucus while remaining on its web trying to protect its egg sac. The event was observed in the middle-end afternoon at ca. 1.80 m height. Our observation broadens the scope of possible natural enemies of web-building spiders and the prey items of land planarians. It also indicates that these organisms can capture and overpower dangerous predatory arthropods, suggesting that even complex three-dimensional sticky webs can be ineffective against the attack of land planarians. Finally, we also show that land planarians can exhibit a flexible foraging strategy, exploiting the environment during the day and at higher heights from the ground. Our observation opens new possibilities involving focal observations and experiments using spiders and land planarians as models in predator-prey research.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

﻿Mammal use of underpasses to cross Route 606 in Guacimal, Costa Rica
Roads severely affect the health of ecosystems across the globe by fragmenting and diminishing habitats, reducing population connectivity, and increasing animal mortality. Wildlife underpasses allow for increased road permeability–the ability for animals to safely cross the road. Despite growing success in other regions, little is known about underpass usage in Central America. In this study, I monitored two dry circular culverts and two unfenced tunnels with barbed wire partially blocking their entrances on Route 606 in Guacimal, Costa Rica, from 14 November to 6 December 2021 using 15 camera traps to assess which species used them to cross. Twelve species used the culverts and tunnels for a total of 108 individual crossings. The tunnels were used, in descending order, by agouti (Dasyprocta punctata), common opossum (Didelphis marsupialis), dog (Canis familiaris), nine-banded armadillo (Dasyous novemcinctus), cat (Felis catus), Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), squirrel (Sciurus variegatoides), northern tamandua (Tamandua mexicana), and coati (Nasua narica). The circular tunnel, Tunnel 1, was used more frequently and by a greater diversity of species than observed in the square tunnel, Tunnel 2. The two smaller culverts were used by common opossum (Didelphis marsupialis), cat (Felis catus), rat opossum (Micoureus alstoni), and Watson’s climbing rat (Tylomus watsoni). Culvert 2 was used more frequently; however, Culvert 1 was used by a greater diversity of species. This study highlights wildlife underpasses as a critical strategy for biological conservation in Costa Rica through improved road safety and habitat connectivity.
["Camera trapping"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Rabies epidemiology and control"]

﻿Influence of tree-fall gaps on directional seed dispersal by small mammals in Central Panama
Small mammals, particularly rodents, are often important seed-dispersal agents in Neotropical forests. Directional seed dispersal into tree-fall gaps may enhance seedling survival of light-demanding species and thus influence forest regeneration. To examine this proposition, we tracked seeds of a light-demanding palm (Attalea butyracea), with a focus on spiny rats (Proechimys semispinosus), the most-likely seed-removal agents. We established seed-removal stations at three distances relative to 28 gaps (gap center, gap edge, and intact forest 10 m from a gap edge) in a lowland forest in Central Panama. We placed five fresh fruits (with their seed) in semi-permeable exclosures to exclude larger mammals at each station and tracked the directions in which seeds were moved and deposited intact. More seeds were moved toward or into gaps when removed from gap center or edge stations; however, seeds dispersed from intact forest stations showed no such directionality. Small mammals may have dispersed seeds into and within tree-fall gaps because they favored caching seeds in areas that offered increased cover, which is typical of gaps, and consequently protection from predation. The lack of directional dispersal from intact forest stations may have been because spiny rats were able to find sufficient cover in the young intact forest that was closer than the gaps. In older forest, the contrast between intact forest and gaps may be greater, resulting in directed dispersal into gaps.
["Attalea butyracea"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿Release and follow-up of a rehabilitated two-toed sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni) in a tropical dry forest in Ecuador
We present the first records of the post-release follow-up and monitoring of a rehabilitated two-toed sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni) as well as freezing behavior and an inferred antagonistic interaction for this species. Two-toed sloths are nocturnal and arboreal mammals whose survival relies on their capability to remain undetected by predators. Nevertheless, in the Guayas province of Ecuador, they are among the most common mammal species in rehabilitation centers. The liberation of animals back to the forest is the main goal of rehabilitation, while the follow-up of post-release human support of animals facilitates their re-establishment in their natural habitat. Follow-up, direct observation, and Bluetooth-based monitoring of the two-toed sloths secured the survival of this species in this part of Ecuador. The range of detectability of the device used indicates its suitability for tracking low-mobility animals. After the first five days, the number of trees used per day increased, and 19 trees within 1152 m2 were visited. Daylight and movement time range showed a correlation towards detectability. The follow-up effort allowed for keeping the two-toed sloth safe for 10 days after release. Due to the difficulty monitoring nocturnal animals, economic constraints in conservation, accessibility, and safety of the animals, biodegradable Bluetooth-based backpacks are recommended to ease the location of the animal and support its survival in the wild.
["Bluetooth technology"]
["Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Ocelot, Leopardus pardalis (Mammalia, Carnivora, Felidae), home range in the Lowland Atlantic Forest of Southeastern Brazil
The ocelot is an important Neotropical mesopredator and information on its spatial ecology remains scarce. Here we estimated the ocelot home range in a remnant of Lowland Atlantic Forest in Southeastern Brazil. The data were collected by camera traps installed at eight known ocelot latrines. We estimated the home range both based on the Minimum Convex Polygon (MCP) and the 95% adaptive Kernel density estimator (95%K) to compare with other published studies. We identified 22 ocelots (adult males = 8; adult females = 12; cubs = 2). Six males were recorded at more than one latrine, while all females were recorded at only one sampling point. In addition to male ocelots being recorded at a large number of points, they showed greater intrasexual spatial overlap as they used the same latrines, suggesting larger home ranges than females. The mean home range size for males was 12.1 ± SE 4.4 km2 (range = 6.2 to 20.8 km2) using MCP, and 19.9 ± SE 9.5 km2 (range = 10.1 to 38.9 km2) applying 95%K. Despite our estimates representing an approximation of the total area used by males, both values are consistent with those reported from other locations. Our data complemented the gradient of vegetation type sampled for ocelots in Atlantic Forest and support the suggestion that this environmental variable and, consequently, its effect on prey availability, influence the home range size of ocelot. Information on population ecology and other spatial ecology data are also presented.
["intrasexual spatial overlap"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿Distribution and conservation of vanilla crop wild relatives: the value of local community engagement for biodiversity research
Natural vanilla is a high-value crop with demand increasing globally. Crop wild relatives (CWR) represent valuable agrobiodiversity and are prioritized in the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation. Vanilla species are naturally rare with historically infrequent botanical collections. Despite their importance as CWR, fewer than 10% of Vanilla species have been evaluated for the IUCN Red List. Colombia is a diversity center for Vanilla species, yet many remote regions are lacking detailed floristic characterization. We show that the participation of rural communities in scientific endeavor enhances capacity to register biodiversity. We report two Vanilla species in the under-explored region of the Serranía de las Quinchas in the mid–Magdalena River valley in Colombia, including the first report for Colombia of Vanilla karen-christianae. For this, and the second species, Vanilla dressleri, we present descriptions with photographic botanical illustrations, updated distribution maps, and preliminary conservation status assessment. Both species are of elevated conservation concern, categorized as Endangered – EN: B2a,b(ii,iii,iv,v) following IUCN criteria. Within Colombia, all recorded occurrences for both species fall outside protected areas. Vanilla crop wild relatives in Colombia have urgent conservation needs. The Serranía de las Quinchas is a priority for further botanical exploration for Vanilla, as well as other protected areas with appropriate habitat. In situ conservation should be complemented with ex situ actions. Community participation in biodiversity research is recommended in this and other remote regions as an integral step towards enhancing biodiversity research and community-based conservation.
["citizen science"]
["Biochemical and biochemical processes", "Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

﻿Current state of knowledge on freshwater planarians (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae) from Chile
The unique geography of Chile encompasses a wide diversity of ecosystems and a rich biodiversity. However, the platyhelminth fauna has been poorly studied. The aim of this work is to compile the historical record of freshwater planarians described for this country. We accessed worldwide databases and published articles to provide a comprehensive review of their discovery history, morphological characteristics and their localities. Freshwater planarians have been collected mainly in central and southern Chile, while in the northern region a single species has been described. The discovery of new species of freshwater triclads has the potential to reveal novel animal models to study regeneration and/or biological adaptations, as some species are suitable for culture in the laboratory. We discuss the many reasons why further research is needed for this animal group, which should include genomic and molecular genetic studies.

﻿Vascular plants of Punta Ballena: dataset for conservation of an endangered hotspot from Uruguay
Punta Ballena is the coastal southern tip of the Sierra de la Ballena, a shear zone of two tectonic plates, located at the beginning of the oceanic coast of Uruguay. Coastal rocky points are especially relevant because of their high plant richness, moreover their vegetation is endangered mainly due to the high tourist – urbanistic development of the coast. This study aimed to determine the list of vascular plants occurring on Punta Ballena coastal rocky point and identify its vegetation communities. Also, to identify endemic species, threatened and of interest for conservation species; and to analyze the species historically documented for the site. Punta Ballena stands out for its remarkable species richness with 427 species, dominated by Asteraceae (82), Poaceae (82) and Fabaceae (26). Five vegetation types were found in the natural area, which allows the combination of species with different adaptations. The site supports five vulnerable species and one endangered species (IUCN), 33 priority species for conservation, two local endemisms and numerous national (13) and regional (45) endemisms. Regarding historical collections, to date Punta Ballena has suffered a loss of 14% of its species, this is likely a direct consequence of the recent urban development. From these historically documented species, we consider five of them to be locally extinct. Due to these overwhelming results, we consider the site a diversity hotspot on the Uruguayan coast. It becomes urgent to generate conservation plans that allow the maintenance of the flora and vegetation communities that are still preserved in the area.
["coastal rocky point"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Osteophagia of sea turtle bones by white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Santa Rosa National Park, northwestern Costa Rica
Herbivores obtain nutrients mostly from the vegetation they consume, but may obtain additional minerals during periods of nutritional stress by consuming bones (osteophagia), a behavioral strategy that has been reported for many wild ungulate species, including the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Here we document multiple records (n = 183 camera-trap records) of osteophagia by white-tailed deer chewing sea turtle remains (resulting from jaguar [Panthera onca] predation) near a nesting beach in Santa Rosa National Park, Costa Rica during January-September 2017. Females with fawns, males with hard and velvet-covered antlers, and non-spotted fawns reached a peak of sea turtle bone consumption during June to August. We hypothesize that seasonality, sex, age, and individual growth stage influence the frequency of osteophagy as a strategy to cope with environmental changes and food resource scarcity. Finally, these observations highlight the role of an apex predator as indirectly influencing rare but important ecological processes.
["bone chewing"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

﻿Genetic divergence and demography of pudu deer (Pudu puda) in five provinces of southern Chile, analyzed through latitudinal and longitudinal ranges
Pudu deer (Pudu puda) is endemic to the temperate rainforests of Chile. Genetic studies at different geographic scales for this species are required to better determine the genetic divergence within and among populations and their demography across the distribution range. These data can provide unique insights into the species or population status for conservation plans and decision-makers. We analyzed the mtDNA control region (CR) and cytochrome b (Cyt b) sequences of pudu deer in five provinces of southern Chile located at different latitudinal locations (Cautín, Valdivia, Osorno, Llanquihue and Chiloé Island) and three geographic areas within the studied provinces, representative of different longitudinal sites (Andes range, Central Valley and Coastal Range), to understand their genetic divergence and demography. The haplotype (H) and nucleotide (Π) diversities of CR and Cyt b ranged from 0.64286 to 0.98333 and from 0.00575 to 0.01022, respectively. CR diversity was significantly different among provinces, with Valdivia showing higher values than Llanquihue and Chiloé Island (H = 0.98333 vs. 0.64286–0.92727, P < 0.05). Cyt b variation also showed significant differences among provinces, particularly, among Cautín and Llanquihue (H = 1.000 vs. 0.222, P < 0.05). Genetic structuring among provinces was relatively high, as indicated by the FST index (FST = 0.41905). Clustering analysis indicated the presence of a distinctive cluster for Chiloé Island individuals. Fu’s FS and Tajima’s D based on CR revealed significant, negative deviations from equilibrium for Chiloé Island (D = -1.65898), Valdivia (Fs = -7.75335) and Llanquihue (Fs = -3.93267), suggesting population expansion in these provinces. Analysis at the longitudinal range showed significant differences among areas based on Π (P < 0.05), with the Andes range and Central Valley showing higher diversity than the Coastal Range. Neither population structuring (FST = 0.01360, P > 0.05) nor distinctive clusters in the longitudinal range were observed. Fu’s Fs and Tajima’s D were negative and significant for the Coastal Range based on CR (Fs = -6.64752, P < 0.001) and Cyt b (D = -1.74110, P < 0.05), suggesting the existence of population expansion. Our results suggest that pudu deer in the analyzed provinces is a genetically structured species, which could be associated with reduced panmixia among populations. The genetic divergence pattern and the population expansion recorded are likely to be associated with past processes of recolonization after Pleistocene glaciation events.
["Control region"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Genetic and phenotypic traits in livestock"]

﻿Record of occurrence of Nasua nasua (Linnaeus, 1766) (Carnivora, Procyonidae) in a densely urbanized area of the city of Canoas, southern Brazil
The South American coati is a carnivore with a wide distribution in South America. Despite this, it is considered a threatened species in Rio Grande do Sul, as Vulnerable, primarily because of the loss of forest habitats. We recorded a Nasua nasua individual at the Canoas airbase, one of the last remaining green spaces in a densely urbanized area in southern Brazil. This confirms the capability of this species to use environments that have been changed by anthropic activity. It also highlights the relevance of green spaces in urban areas for wildlife conservation.
["deforestation"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Recent observations of Dermochelys coriacea (Vandelli, 1761), in the waters of Pacific Panama
The situation of the Eastern Tropical Pacific subpopulation of the leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) is critical due to the drastic declines of nesting females. Evidence of the presence of leatherback sea turtles along the Pacific coast of Panama is anecdotal and is based on the local knowledge of local residents. I present here an uncommon observation of a subadult and an adult D. coriacea in the waters off the coast of Azuero Peninsula in central Panama. These observations indicate the need for intensive surveys along this coast that in part may rely on key local informants to urgently implement conservation efforts for this species.
["Boat strikes"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

﻿The importance of pollination and dispersal syndromes for the conservation of Cerrado Rupestre fragments on ironstone outcrops immersed in an agricultural landscape
Studies on pollination and seed dispersal are essential for the conservation of plant diversity. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the pollination and dispersal syndromes of five fragments of the Cerrado Rupestre immersed in an agricultural landscape to answer the following questions: (i) What is the frequency of pollination and dispersal syndromes among species and individuals?; (ii) Which are the predominant pollination and seed dispersal syndromes in this environment?. A total of 66 species, belonging to 44 genera and 29 botanical families, were evaluated. Melittophily was the most common type of pollination syndrome, observed in 54.55% of the species, followed by phalenophily (9.09%), cantharophily, ornithophily, quiropterophilly and sphingophily (all 3.03%), and psychophilly (1.51%). Generalist pollination represented 22.73% of the records. Of the 1246 individuals identified, 59.23% were melitophilous, 25.20% generalists, 5.86% phalenophilous, 3.37% quiropterophilous, 2.49% cantharophilous, 2.25% ornithophilous, 1.44% sphingophilous and 0.16% psychophilous. Regarding dispersion syndromes, zoochory was the most common type of dispersion, observed in 68.18% of the species, followed by anemochory (28.79%) and autochory (3.03%). On the other hand, the frequency among individuals differed from the values found for frequency among species. Of the 1246 individuals identified, 55.38% were anemochoric, 43.10% zoochoric, and 1.52% autochoric. Our results demonstrate the predominance of biotic syndromes in the community, especially melittophily and zoochory, contributing to a better understanding of the functionality and availability of resources in the community, as well as indispensable information for the conservation, management, and restoration of natural environments.
["anemochory"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Taxonomic and functional diversity of birds in a rural landscape of high Andean forest, Colombia
We evaluated the taxonomic and functional diversity of birds in a rural landscape in the north-eastern Andes of Colombia. We carried out seven field trips and used transects of 300 m, separated from each other by 500 m in the dominant plant cover of the rural landscape. We measured alpha (α) and beta (β) diversity at both the taxonomic and functional levels. We registered 10 orders, 21 families, 56 genera and 63 species of birds. In wooded pasture, we recorded 55 species and a relative abundance of 66% and 44 and 34% for an Andean forest fragment. The species that contributed the most to the dissimilarity between the covers were Zonotrichia capensis, Turdus fuscater, Mecocerculus leucophrys, Atlapetes latinuchus and Crotophaga ani. We identified nine functional types, where G1 was made up of small species with anissodactyl and pamprodactyl legs that were insectivorous, frugivorous and nectarivorous as the best represented. The FEve and FDiv were 0.51 and 0.74, respectively in the Andean forest fragment plant cover and, for the wooded pasture, the FEve was 0.45 and the FDiv was 0.81. Both cover types contributed to the diversity of the rural landscape and the dynamics that existed between them formed a complementary factor that favoured the taxonomic and functional richness of the characterised rural landscape.
["Colombian Andes"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and soil sciences"]

﻿Confirmation of the current occurrence of Nasua narica (Procyonidae) in the Caribbean region of Colombia
The White-nosed Coati, Nasua narica is a small carnivore distributed from the United States to Ecuador, and whose occurrence in Colombia had only been confirmed from the biogeographic Chocó. Although it was previously erroneously considered widespread in the country, a recent revision identified inconsistencies with some supporting records there. Here we present a new distribution record for the species, which confirms previously alleged information about the presence of this procyonid in the Department of Magdalena, also confirming its current occurrence for the Caribbean region, and solving a long-due geographical distribution uncertainty in the country.
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Human-wildlife conflicts and drought in the greater Calakmul Region, Mexico: implications for tapir conservation
Wildlife conservation efforts in the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor have focused on reducing negative interactions between humans and charismatic species. In recent years, droughts have increased in frequency and intensity in southeastern Mexico exacerbating conflicts with wildlife as they compete with humans for limited water. In the Yucatan Peninsula, Greater Calakmul Region of southeastern Mexico, Baird’s tapirs (Tapirus bairdii) are increasingly encroaching into local villages (ejidos) in search of water. This behavior could increase tapir mortality from hunting by Calakmul ejidos residents. We evaluated the trends between annual precipitation and tapir sightings near or within Calakmul ejidos from 2008 to 2019 to determine if the frequency of reported conflicts increased relative to decreased precipitation. In addition, with community participation, from 2016 to 2018 we monitored one of the ejidos where human-tapir conflicts were reported to be increasing to better describe the nature of conflicts. We did not find any relationship between the number of tapir sightings reported and annual precipitation. However, more tapirs were documented near ejidos in 2019, which is one of the years with the lowest rainfall (626.6 mm) in the last decade. Tapirs were reported as the most common wildlife species observed at waterholes (35.4%) and apiaries (32.1%). Our findings suggested that water scarcity has increased tapirs’ incursions into human-populated areas and subsequently the potential for human-tapir conflicts. We recommend that managers consider developing alternative water sources that could mitigate human-tapir conflicts and contribute to the long-term viability of other wildlife species that inhabit the Greater Calakmul Region of southeastern Mexico.
["Climate change"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Archaeology and Natural History", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

﻿Strandings of sea turtles on beaches around the oil capital in Brazil
The south-western region of the Atlantic Ocean has feeding and nesting areas for the five species of sea turtles registered in Brazil, which are in different degrees of extinction threat, mainly due to anthropogenic factors. Fishing and the ingestion of solid waste, were identified as causing stranding and the mortality of sea turtles. In this work, data from the monitoring of beaches in the Municipalities of Macaé and Rio das Ostras, important oil zone in Brazil, in the north-central region of the State of Rio de Janeiro, were used in order to analyse the effects of seasonality on the sea turtle stranding. The monitoring was carried out daily from September 2017 to June 2019, in a study area covering 23.8 km long beach. Stranding data were obtained from active (n = 126) and passive (n = 66) monitoring of beaches and included the records of Chelonia mydas (n = 151), Caretta caretta (n = 23), Lepidochelys olivacea (n = 14), Dermochelys coriacea (n = 2) and Eretmochelys imbricata (n = 1). The largest stranding record occurred in the summer (n = 61) and spring (n = 60), a period compatible with the reproductive season of the species. The results obtained in this study emphasise the importance of the analysis of strandings of sea turtles, which provide relevant data on the biology of the group, the intra and interspecific dynamics and the state of conservation of these animals.
["Anthropogenic impact"]

﻿Behavior, ecology and territory of the chestnut-bellied hummingbird, Saucerottia castaneiventris, in the xerophytic vegetation of the Chicamocha canyon of Colombia
The Chestnut-bellied Hummingbird Saucerottia castaneiventris is an endemic hummingbird of Colombia, currently categorized as Near Threatened (NT) globally and as Vulnerable (VU) in Colombia. We characterize the territorial defense and foraging behaviors of S. castaneiventris hummingbird during different seasons of the year, and we determined the size of the S. castaneiventris territory and its relationship with floral abundance at different times of the year. We made four field trips between 2008 and 2009 and registered 19 individuals from S. castaneiventris. Of these, 10 were in the rainy periods, distributed in five territories (one male and one female for each). Eight were in the dry period (July), distributed in four territories. And one individual was in the dry period of February, which did not settle in any of the identified territories. Territorial defense occupied a large part of species’ time. The nectar drinking, and insect hunting were the most frequent activities. The most common floral resources were Opuntia dillenii, Tillandsia sp. and Aloe vera. The hummingbirds Chlorostilbon gibsoni and Doryfera ludoviciae shared habitats with S. castaneiventris and there were fluctuations in encounter rates between the seasons (C. gibsoni ER: 20–7.5 and D. ludoviciae and ER: 0.0–2.5). Territories ranged between 1800 and 3800 m2 for the dry season and between 1500 and 6500 m2 for the rainy season. Our results provided primary information on the ecology of S. castaneiventris and form the basis for the formulation of conservation strategies for the species and for its habitats..
["\u0410gonistic behavior"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Detection of mucormycosis caused by Apophysomyces elegans in a Lesser Long-nosed Bat (Leptonycteris yerbabuenae) in Central Mexico
We describe a case of mucormycosis in a Lesser Long-nosed Bat (Leptonycteris yerbabuenae) caused by Apophysomyces elegans in Puebla, Central Mexico. The diagnosis was supported by laboratory analysis and necropsy. We present the first report of the fungus in a wild host; therefore, we indicate that further studies are necessary to understand its infection cycle since this pathogen may indicate a risk of zoonotic, and anthropozoonotic diseases.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Can guava monocultures (Psidium guajava L.) function as refuge for bird conservation?
Agricultural intensification negatively affects bird communities, and the response of birds to these changes varies from those that survive and increase their populations (disturb-tolerant species) to those that cannot adapt to new conditions and are regionally extinct (disturb-sensitive species). Thus, the present study sought to investigate the bird community in 39 guava orchards in the semiarid region of the state of Sergipe, northeast Brazil. Field observations were made between July and October 2017, through a one-hour visit to each orchard. Samplings were conducted using the MacKinnon’s List method. In addition to bird sampling, walks were carried out in the orchards to observe nesting. Seventy-six species of birds belonging to 30 families were recorded using the guava orchards. The most frequent species were Vanellus chilensis, Columbina talpacoti, Columbina picui, Crotophaga ani, Pitangus sulphuratus and Sporophila albogularis. Of the 186 nests recorded in the orchards, the majority (n = 144 nests; 77.4%) belonged to Columbina picui, Columbina talpacoti and Columbina minuta. The results demonstrate that the bird community in the guava orchards is formed only by disturb-tolerant species, showing that the studied guava orchards are not favorable to the conservation of disturb-sensitive birds of the Caatinga domain.
["Agricultural environment"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Dog predation by jaguars in a tourist town on the Mexican Caribbean
Invasion of humans and dogs into the jaguars’ habitat opens the way for future negative events. Dog predation by jaguars has only been recorded anecdotally, despite the high risk of pathogen transmission and the potential conflict due to pet predation. In this study, we document jaguar attacks on dogs in Mahahual, Quintana Roo, Mexico, a tourist town in the Mexican Caribbean. In addition, we describe an initiative designed to prevent jaguar persecution by constructing night houses for dogs at the most recent attack sites. A total of 20 attacks were recorded in the last nine years, most of them fatal (60%) on medium-sized dogs (70%), at night (95%) and during the dry season (65%). Half of the attacks occurred in the north of Mahahual´s coastline and the other half in the south. Attacks in the south were concentrated between 0 to 10 km away from the village, while in the north they were dispersed over distances between 0 and > 30 km. Thirty-eight night houses were constructed covering almost 45 km of the 135 km of Mahahual’s coastline. Further research is required to understand the importance of dogs in the jaguar diet and the impact of dog predation on the health and disease ecology of jaguar populations.
["Canis lupus familiaris"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Zoonotic diseases and public health", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies"]

New records on the distribution and habitat of the northern naked-tailed armadillo, Cabassous centralis (Mammalia, Cingulata, Chlamyphoridae) in Costa Rica
The northern naked-tailed armadillo, Cabassous centralis, is a rare and elusive species. It ranges from southern Mexico to northern South America. It has been detected in several types of habitats, but appears to prefer Tropical and Subtropical broadleaf forests. In Costa Rica, this species is difficult to observe and there are only eight records reported in the scientific literature. To search records of this armadillo, we used camera traps in north-western Costa Rica and visited several additional localities in the centre and the Caribbean lowlands of the country. We also examined and assessed records of this species from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) database. We added four new locality records for C. centralis in Costa Rica, based on photos from camera traps and field observations. We found only three localities (five records) in GBIF additional to the eight reported in literature. Habitat in these new Costa Rican localities reported here varied from mature dense forest (one site) to semi-urban areas (two sites). Additionally, two individuals were detected in secondary forest patches, one of them adjacent to mature riparian forest. Given the species’ scarcity, much additional information still is required to ground protection actions in a scientific framework.
["Biological reserve"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Amphibians of the Sinos River Basin, southern Brazil
The Sinos River encompasses a wide area of natural habitats and, at the same time, supports one of the highest population densities of southern Brazil. Consequently, natural habitats along the Basin present a high degree of habitat disturbance. Despite of the existence of threatened species, information about diversity of amphibians in that area is scarce. Thus, we aimed to catalogue the amphibian species of the Sinos River Basin from records in scientific collections and compilation of published articles. We recorded 52 species, all with geographic coordinates validated at the collection point, indicating that the Sinos River Basin harbours about 50% of the amphibian species of the State of Rio Grande do Sul. Three anuran species were classified as having some degree of threat: Melanophryniscus cambaraensis, Melanophryniscus dorsalis and Thoropa saxatilis. We also expected other 18 species with a high probability of occurrence in the Basin. This work shows that, despite the intense human impact, the Sinos River Basin has a relevant role for the maintenance of a considerable fraction of the amphibian biodiversity in southern Brazil.

First Locality Record of Melanistic Oncilla (Leopardus tigrinus) in Monteverde, Costa Rica
The persistence of the coat color polymorphism melanism has been reported for several tropical felids, but its evolutionary advantages remain an active area of research. Few publications have explored melanism in the elusive species, oncilla (Leopardus tigrinus) within the Neotropical part of their range in Costa Rica. Herein, I present the first record of a melanistic oncilla within the montane cloud forest of Monteverde, Costa Rica. Recent studies have found support for theories (e.g. Temporal Segregation Hypothesis and Gloger’s Rule) explaining the ecological advantages driving melanism in oncilla and tropical felid populations. However, it is unclear what is driving melanism in this Monteverde oncilla population due to the singular observation. Further research investigating whether melanism is occurring at a higher frequency in other individuals in the region is critical to better understanding the occurrence of melanism in local populations of this cryptic species. The montane cloud forest in Monteverde provides critical habitat to this vulnerable species within the small Neotropical part of their range. Melanistic individuals may be particularly threatened by land-use change and increasing human pressure if theories for the evolutionary advantages and ecological conditions motivating melanism are supported.
["Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

New morphological data on the rare sigmodontine Mindomys hammondi (Rodentia, Cricetidae), an arboreal oryzomyine from north-western Andean montane forests
The monotypic rodent Mindomys Weksler, Percequillo & Voss, 2006 (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae) is one of the rarest members of the speciose tribe Oryzomyini. As this species is restricted to the Chocó forests of the western Andean slope in northern Ecuador, our knowledge is based on a few specimens collected decades ago. Here we add the first data on some aspects of external anatomy (cheiridia examined in fresh, ears, rhinarium), genital anatomy (penis), soft anatomy (palate, stomach, caecum) and postcranial skeleton retrieved from a full adult male, recently trapped in Reserva Drácula, Carchi, Ecuador. Several features of this specimen, paradoxically the first to be added to Ecuadorian mammal collections, reinforce the view that Mindomys is an arboreal sigmodontine.
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Phylogeography of the Central american red brocket deer, Mazama temama (Artiodactyla, Cervidae) in southeastern Mexico
Anthropogenic threats have increasingly isolated the populations of Mazama temama (Erxleben, 1777) and limited the gene flow in this species. Knowledge of the phylogeographic structure of this species is therefore essential for its conservation. Thus, in this study, we describe the phylogeographic structure of two M. temama populations of Veracruz and Oaxaca, Mexico. We sequenced the D-Loop region of the mitochondrial DNA of 16 individuals, in order to estimate the diversity and genetic differentiation (FST), Tajima’s D index, "Mismatch distribution" test; a phylogram and a haplotype network was constructed and we performed multidimensional scaling analysis to test the hypothesis of association between geographic distance and genetic diversity. The haplotypic and nucleotide diversity was high, indicating divergent populations (FST = 0.223), while the Tajima’s D index (-1,03300; P > 0.10) determined disequilibrium in the D-Loop region, derived from a population expansion that was evidenced in the "Mismatch distribution" test and confirmed with the haplotype network in the form of a star. Four lineages were identified in the phylogram (Veracruz n = 3, Oaxaca n = 1), evidencing geographic and reproductive isolation between the two populations. This was confirmed by the multidimensional scaling analysis, which evidenced recent evolutionary divergence between the populations analyzed, which are considered evolutionary units of conservation.
["Central American red brocket deer"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Seasonal dynamics of waterbirds from a relict wetland in the central Monte Desert, Argentina
Wetlands currently have high rates of degradation, with more than 70% lost globally. In the central Monte Desert, Argentina, they are a scarce and limited resource for the biodiversity which depends on them. Waterbirds have been used as biological indicators of wetlands because they respond to fluctuations in food resources and to environmental changes in the short term. Here we analyse the seasonal variations in the structure of the waterbird assemblage from a relict wetland in this region. We carried out censuses of waterbirds in a 6-year period (between 2009 and 2019) during the southern summer and winter. We recorded 1875 individuals of 33 species of waterbirds during the summer and 677 individuals of 29 species during the winter. The grouping patterns of the waterbird assemblages differed between seasons (R = 0.35; p < 0.01). Taxonomic diversity profiles showed greater diversity for all indexes (qD) during the summer. The guild of invertivorous and omnivorous waders had a greater abundance of individuals during the summer (p < 0.05) and, together with the surface-feeding herbivores, contributed to the 87% of the dissimilarity of the assemblages between seasons. Phoenicopterus chilensis was the only species registered as threatened with national and international extinction. Relict wetlands, such as Laguna del Viborón, still have attributes of community diversity and represent the last refuges for waterbirds of the central Monte Desert. The information gathered in this study will contribute to the guidelines for integrated management plans and monitoring programmes for the conservation of the wetland and its biodiversity.
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Gauchergasilus euripedesi (Copepoda, Ergasilidae) parasitizing different species of fish from two environments in southern Brazil
The parasitic copepod Gauchergasilus euripedesi (Montú, 1980) Montú & Boxshall, 2002 was described from plankton samples and specimens found in four fish species from the estuarine area of Patos Lagoon, state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. Later, one different fish species was reported parasitized with G. euripedesi in the same locality. Species of Astyanax Baird & Girard, 1854 (Astyanax henseli Melo & Buckup, 2006 and Astyanax lacustris (Lütken, 1875)) and Psalidodon Eigenmann, 1911 (Psalidodon eigenmanniorum (Cope, 1894) and Psalidodon aff. fasciatus (Cuvier, 1819)) were collected in two environments (Pintada Island, municipality of Porto Alegre and Itapeva Lagoon, municipality of Terra de Areia, RS) to investigate their parasites. The copepods found in the gill arches were counted, processed, mounted in permanent slides, and photographed using light microscopy, or processed for observation in scanning electron microscopy. Specimens of P. eigenmanniorum from Pintada Island, A. lacustris and P. aff. fasciatus from Itapeva Lagoon, were parasitized by G. euripedesi, with prevalences of 29.03% (A. lacustris), 10.34% (P. eigenmanniorum), and 9.68% (P. aff. fasciatus). Measurements obtained for specimens of G. euripedesi were similar to those found in the literature, except for egg sacs which were larger in the specimens examined in the present study. In addition to being the first report of G. euripedesi parasitizing species of fish (A. lacustris, P. eigenmanniorum, and P. aff. fasciatus), the results presented here also extend the known geographic distribution of the copepod species.
["A styanax"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Nest site selection and nesting behavior of the mud turtle Kinosternon scorpiodes (Testudines, Kinosternidae) in Palo Verde National Park, Costa Rica: implications for management
Habitat selection is the process whereby individuals preferentially use, or occupy, a non-random set of available habitats. At the same time, nest site selection is defined as the placement of eggs by females at sites differing from random sites within a delimited area. We located 59 nests of the mud turtle Kinosternon scorpioides in Palo Verde National Park (PVNP) in Northwestern Costa Rica. We compared eight microhabitat variables at nest sites against those at random sites. Females significantly placed their eggs at sites with more understory, leaf litter cover, and greater leaf litter depth than in random sites. Additionally, females selected sites with lower air and soil temperature and lower air humidity. Palo Verde NP is subject to active management actions designed to control invasive plant species in the wetland, namely cattail (Thypha domingensis Pers.). The main actions have been cattle grazing, controlled fires, and mechanical crushing of vegetation. We found that habitat quality in nesting areas is being threatened by at least one of these actions: cattle grazing. This is detrimental for three microhabitat traits that turtles select for nesting sites: understory cover, leaf litter cover, and leaf litter depth. The continued degradation of microhabitats at nesting areas of K. scorpioides at PVNP could be affecting recruitment due to embryo survivorship.
["Cattle"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses"]

Temporal edge effects structure the assemblages of Drosophilidae (Diptera) in a Restinga forest fragment in Southern Brazil
Anthropogenic habitat fragmentation directly affects ecological processes, leading to negative biodiversity impacts for insects and other biota. Increased edge effects are one consequence of fragmentation, and may alter the composition or abundance of species in the remaining habitat fragments. Understanding the ways in which edge effects impact upon the biota is essential for conservation decision-making in fragmented landscapes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the seasonal patterns of abundance, richness, and composition of Drosophilidae in a Restinga forest fragment in the extreme south of Brazil, as a function of the distance from the edge to the interior of the fragment. The data were analyzed using SIMPER analyses, which showed that the edge and the forest interior were most dissimilar during winter, followed by spring, autumn and summer. An NMDS and the SIMPER analyses showed that the lower dissimilarity between the edge and interior in spring, autumn and summer, compared to winter, is driven by immigration of individuals from outside of the forest fragment. Furthermore, some species were asymmetrically distributed in the fragment, with some species restricted to the edge of the fragment and others to the interior. This information aids in the understanding of the functioning and dynamics of fragmentation, which is fundamental for the maintenance and integrity of environments and their fauna.
["Drosophilinae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

First records of lowland tapir, Tapirus terrestris (Perissodactyla, Tapiridae), outside conservation areas after 30 years, in Santa Catarina, southern Brazil
Intense hunting pressure and habitat loss have significantly reduced populations of the lowland tapir Tapirus terrestris in southern Brazil. Remaining individuals inhabit mainly legally protected areas. Here we report the first records outside of conservation areas in the state of Santa Catarina, over the last 30 years. These records were found during a mammal monitoring program, developed between May 2018 and July 2020. The records provide new evidence of the distribution of the species in Santa Catarina and reinforce the relevance of connectivity between protected areas of the Serra do Mar Ecological Corridor.
["ecological corridors"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Feeding ecology of the Green-cheeked Parakeet, Pyrrhura molinae (Psittaciformes, Psittacidae), in a subtropical forest of Argentina
Although there are studies on certain aspects of the feeding ecology of several species of Neotropical parrots, there is scarce ecological information about Pyrrhura molinae – a Psittacidae species which is widely distributed in South America and abundant in the Yungas of Argentina. For two years (May 2014 to June 2016), the composition and seasonal variation in the Green-cheeked Parakeet diet in the Yungas Piedmont forest in Jujuy, Argentina were examined. Furthermore, fruiting phenology transects were established to evaluate food resource availability and the patterns of food resource used by the Green-cheeked Parakeet. In 214 food plant trees, it was found that ﬂower and dry fruit availability was highest in the dry season, and fleshy fruit production peaked in the wet season, but these phenology patterns for aged plant species suggest that there were no significant differences in food availability. The consumption of 18 plant species was recorded, being Celtis iguanaea (30.73%) and Trema micrantha (22.01%) the most consumed species. In terms of food items, fruits were the most consumed items, followed by seeds and flowers and, to a lesser extent, nectar and leaves. Levins’ niche breadth showed varying levels of diet specialisation amongst seasons, which was narrower (B = 0.28) in the wet season, indicating specialisation in diet during this season. There was a medium overlap in parakeet diet between seasons (Morisita Index = 0.59). We did not find a statistically significant relationship between resource availability and food use, but expansion and contraction in Levins Index and variation in food items consumed throughout the year and season demonstrate high flexibility in the diet. Like other congeners, the Green-cheeked Parakeet has a flexible diet that could be adjusted to the seasonal availability of food resources. These data may contribute to the design of conservation plans for the species and its habitat.
["Diet"]
["Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses", "Plant and animal studies", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

An annotated list of the reptiles of the highland grassland of Tandilia Mountains, Argentina
The study of biodiversity is a fundamental step to develop conservation strategies. Reptile populations are immersed in a global crisis, due to anthropic disturbances. Almost the entire Pampa ecoregion in Argentina was modified for agricultural and livestock activities, the only remnants of mountain native grasslands in Buenos Aires province being the Tandilia and Ventania mountain systems. Ventania reptiles have been exhaustively researched in last years, while Tandilia counts with fewer studies. We presented an actualized reptiles list of the Tandilia Mountain System. We used five data sources to collect presence records: literature, fieldwork, museum collection, citizen science, and a online database. The composition of reptiles from the Tandilia Mountain range includes 26 species in 12 families. Due to the presence of several endemic reptiles, and the representativeness of more than half of the reptiles of Pampa Ecoregion, Tandilia would be useful to determine conservation priority areas to conserve the native grassland and their reptile fauna.

Natural regeneration in a mixed ombrophilous forest remnant in southern Brazil
The study of forest regeneration allows the diagnosis of conservation status of fragments and estimating population parameters that are essential for management projects. This study evaluated the structure, diversity and dynamics of the tree regenerating component of a remnant of mixed ombrophilous forest, aiming to support management actions for this forest type. The study was developed at the Parque Estadual das Araucárias (PEAR), located in the western region of the state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. A total of 100 plots of 25 m2 (0.25 ha) were allocated, all individuals with height ≥ 1.0 m and DBH < 5 cm were sampled. Shannon’s diversity index (H’), Pielou’s equability index (J) and total natural regeneration rate (TNR) were estimated. We sampled 1,425 individuals from 99 species and 39 families, with an estimated total density of 5,700 individuals by hectare. The richest families were Fabaceae (13), Myrtaceae (10) and Lauraceae (7). The H’ was 3.76 and the J was 0.80. The TNR rate ranged from 0.05 to 8.12%, highlighting Trichilia elegans, with the highest rate and Araucaria angustifolia with low potential for natural regeneration. The analysis of the results indicated a high diversity in the regenerating component of the PEAR compared to other studies, probably because the area presents itself as a successional mosaic due to past disturbances.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest ecology and management", "Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems"]

Bird composition of different valley habitats after land-use changes in Northern Honduras
The northern coast of Honduras is potentially covered with tropical rainforests, reaching from the Caribbean Sea up to the cloud forests of the Pico Bonito summits. Therefore, it was blessed with the mega-diverse avifauna of the Central American humid neotropics. Although local bird species have been generally well documented, there are hardly any updates on the biodiversity of northern Honduras. Thus, this study contributes to our knowledge of the natural shift of bird life, following up the Cangrejal River with its different slight land use intensification in the region. Standardized bird records along the valley are analyzed, reaching from the beaches of La Ceiba up to the managed rainforests of El Toncontíns in the lower montane rainforests. Nine points were checked over the course of at least 6 days, taking point counts between 16 March and 20 June 2005. A NMDS of the joined nine point-lists elucidates four main groups, namely the beach/city ecosystems, open habitats along the river banks, slightly cleared forests (park landscape), and a mature rainforest. In total, 115 bird species, from 102 genera and 44 families, were found in 2005. As methods are limited, results can represent merely a prodromus of bird composition of neotropical valleys of the Central American isthmus. However, avi-diversity is affected by forest degradation and increasing land-use changes. Since deforestation is still soaring in the region, bird species composition should be monitored, as it will be as dynamic as land use changes in the region.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

An update of the amazon prawn (Macrobrachium amazonicum) distribution in the low course of the São Francisco river (northeast Brazil)
The prawn Macrobrachium amazonicum has been considered a successful colonizing species of freshwater environments beyond its native range; however, information on the distribution of the species in rivers in northeastern Brazil is doubtful or incomplete. This study updates the presence of the Amazon River prawn Macrobrachium amazonicum in the São Francisco River (northeast Brazil) where eight areas were sampled downstream from the Xingó Hydroelectric Plant (Alagoas/Sergipe) up to the mouth of the river, between April 2014 and February 2016. The specimens were sampled using manual trawls and artisanal traps. Hydrological data were obtained using a multi-parameter probe. Only 258 specimens were found in Piranhas, Pão de Açúcar, and Belo Monte, which are regions far from the mouth of the river. They were found in shallow (3.96 ± 1.01 m), warm (26.15 ± 1.18 °C), and oxygenated fresh waters (5.70 ± 1.14 mg L-1) with low turbidity (71.33 ± 6.43 mg L-1) and slight alkalinity (7.26 ± 0.53), always associated with the aquatic vegetation. The presence of M. amazonicum has not yet been evaluated in relation to possible impacts on local native diversity. Therefore, studies addressing the interaction of this species with native species are necessary to understand whether or not it poses a risk to endemic species.
["Bioinvasion"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Marine and fisheries research"]

New records and conservation of Passiflora L. (Passifloraceae s.s.) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Passiflora L. belongs to the family Passifloraceae sensu stricto, and comprises 700–750 species. There are approximately 161 known species of the family in Brazil, of which 153 belong to Passiflora, 89 are endemic, 83 occur in the region of the Atlantic Domain; 40 occur in Rio de Janeiro State (RJ). Using field samplings techniques and scientific collection analyses, we present here new geographic records for Passiflora deidamioides Harms, P. imbeana Sacco, P. junqueirae Imig & Cervi, and P. truncata Regel for RJ, principally in the Serra dos Órgãos National Park (PARNASO). Geographic distribution data was used to calculate the Extension of Occurrence (EOO) and Area of Occupancy (AOO) of the species. Passiflora junqueirae, previously considered endemic to Espírito Santo State, now has new records for RJ. Passiflora imbeana and P. truncata are extended into RJ, being recorded there for the first time in the municipality of Teresópolis. The four species are cited for the first time in PARNASO, occurring between 1,000 and 1,700 m.a.s.l. in Montane and Upper Montane Atlantic Rainforest. We provide taxonomic information, distribution maps, and the conservation status of the species.
["Atlantic Domain"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Arinosaster patriciae (Porifera, Demospongiae): new genus and species and the second record of a cave freshwater sponge from Brazil
Arinosaster patriciae gen. nov. et sp. nov. is the second continental sponge registered for a subterranean environment (cave habitat) in Brazil and the Neotropical Region. The sponges were recorded and collected in a 5m depth technical dive in a sinkhole of Rio Claro, tributary of Rio Arinos, Tapajós system, Amazon Basin (-13.8170386, -56.6914225) at the locality of Sumidouro do Rio Claro, Municipality of Diamantino, state of Mato Grosso, central western Brazil. The cave is placed in sandstone rocks of the Parecis Group (Upper Cretaceous). “In situ” photographs of colonies, of living specimens, SEM illustrations of dissociated spicules as well as of the skeletal structure, are presented. The occurrence of euaster microscleres of the type spherasters are for the first time reported for continental sponges but, also new, is the occurrence of spongin fibers, composing with fibers of silicious spicules in the skeletal arrangement. The absence of gemmules in the studied material and the fact that new specimens remain undetected call for the proposition of a new monospecific genus to be retained as Incertae Sedis until new and gemmuliferous colonies are found.
["Amazon Basin"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Synthetic Organic Chemistry Methods", "Phytochemistry and Bioactivity Studies"]

Movement distances for four small mammals in two Atlantic forests fragments, Southern Brazil
Animal movement has an important role in individual performance, species reproduction, population demography, and conservation, especially in fragmented landscapes. The distance moved by an individual may vary depending on individual needs, such as the search for food resources and sexual partners. Here we investigated which factors affect the distances between successive captures (hereafter DSC) for Akodon montensis, Oligoryzomys nigripes, Sooretamys angouya, and Didelphis albiventris. This study was conducted from April 2015 to October 2016 in two fragments in the south of Atlantic Forest biome through capture, mark and recapture technique. DSC was analyzed using Generalized Linear Models with Poisson distribution where the independent variables were sex, whether the animal was active or not in terms of reproduction, body weight, and climatic season. The mean DSC was greater for D. albiventris (44.6 ± 28.8 m), followed by S. angouya (31.9 ± 25.7 m), O. nigripes (25.8 ± 22.5 m) and A. montensis (18.9 ± 22.0 m). Males of all species moved larger DSC than females. Considering the rodents, reproductive animals also moved larger DSC than non-reproductive animals. Sex may have masked the effect of body weight, as males tend to be larger than females. Climatic effects were tested for A. montensis and O. nigripes, however, with diverse effects.
["Akodon montensis"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New records of mammals of the Coffee Region, Central Andes of Colombia using citizen science
The Coffee Region of Colombia is one of the most representative areas of the country due to its cultural appeal. 200 of the 528 mammal species in the country occur in this region. Pre-existing knowledge about the group in this region has been obtained through indirect and direct sampling methods. We present new records of mammals of the “Reserva Forestal Protectora Bosques de la Central Hidroeléctrica de Caldas (CHEC)”, located in the Coffee Region, based on vouchered citizen science records. To accomplish this, we held training workshops on the relevance of information provided by non-invasive vouchers for mammal collections that include bone remains, hairs, skin and other signs that can be found incidentally in the field by park rangers and other staff of the Reserve. In addition, we included photographic and video records of mammals taken by park rangers before and after the training workshops. We added vouchers obtained by the park rangers to the biological collection of the Natural History Museum of the Universidad de Caldas (MHN-UCa). Using this method, we obtained records of 34 mammalian species belonging to 20 families and 11 orders. We highlight the obtention of museum preserved vouchers of the Northern Naked-tailed Armadillo, Cabassous centralis (Miller 1899), and the Cauca Slender Opossum, Marmosops caucae (Thomas 1900), that had limited samples in national collections or had not been previously collected in the study area. With this work, a contribution network with the CHEC reserve staff was established, promoting the inclusion of these agents in the development of scientific research, and showing the relevance of collaborative science in assisting with filling information gaps about medium and large mammals.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

What’s on the menu? A presumed attack of Andean bear on a Mountain tapir at the Puracé National Natural Park, Colombia
Two iconic and charismatic species that inhabit the northern Andes of South America are the Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus) and the Mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque). Both species can be found sympatrically in several areas of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. Despite their overlap in distribution, little is known about interactions between both species, with few reported cases of Andean bear attacks on the Mountain tapir. Here, we report a possible attack by an Andean bear on a Mountain tapir in the northern part of Puracé National Natural Park, Colombia based on strong wounds and marks on a tapir’s back and rump. The wounds match typical attack patterns generated by Andean bears and corroborates previous camera traps records of bears attacking tapirs in this locality.
["ecological interactions"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Rabies epidemiology and control", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Bird activity patterns in the understorey of an evergreen forest in Oaxaca, Mexico
Activity patterns of species are related to their physiology, their behaviour and the environment and can change in response to different factors, such as interactions between species. Bird species, typical of the understorey, show morphological and ecological similarities and must thus have some mechanism of ecological separation, such as temporal niche partitioning. The objective of this study was to provide information about activity patterns and activity overlap of bird species typical of the understorey. We expected temporal niche partitioning between ecologically-similar species. We placed camera traps in 29 sampling points in a high evergreen forest in the southeast of Mexico between 2011 and 2013. All species were mainly diurnal and, contrary to what we expected, there was temporal partitioning between tinamids, but not in galliforms and columbiforms. The degree of activity overlap might reflect a solitary or group lifestyle of the three sets of species, as well as shared behavioural preferences and similar adaptations. These results contribute to our knowledge of the basic biology and behavioural ecology of birds of the understorey.
["Activity overlap"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Analysis of abiotic factors associated with foam nests of Cuvier’s foam froglet (Physalaemus cuvieri) in southeastern Brazil
Climate change may have significant impacts on amphibian diversity due to alterations in microhabitat conditions where these species occurs. Understanding the abiotic factors associated with a species’ microhabitat are therefore necessary to evaluate the impact they may suffer. Amphibians are exposed to changing microhabitat conditions at multiple life stages, since reproduction and larval development of most species depend on water, whereas adults frequently depend on terrestrial habitats. Physalaemus cuvieri is a Neotropical frog that uses foam nests for reproduction that may provide some protection for tadpoles against temperature and humidity fluctuations. Herein, foam nests of P. cuvieri were studied within vegetation around a pond, with the aim of analyzing the morphometric (depth, area and volume) relationships of foam nests with abiotic factors (humidity, temperature). Humidity 2 cm above the nests was significantly greater than 2 m from the nests. Temperature, measured at different depths of the nests, was significantly reduced by up to 10 °C when compared to atmospheric air temperatures above the nests. We conclude that foam nests facilitate a protective environment for eggs by regulating temperature and humidity to acceptable levels.
["Area/volume relation"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Number, density and distribution of Rufous-banded Owl Ciccaba albitarsis (Strigiformes, Strigidae) in a cloud forest
The aim of the research was to determine the number and distribution of the Rufous-banded Owls Ciccaba albitarsis in a cloud forest on the northern slopes of the Andes. The study was performed using the territory mapping technique and a GPS device in an area of 7 km2. The number of territories was estimated at 40, resulting in a density of 5.7 territories/km2. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first published data on density of the Rufous-banded Owl in a cloud forest. The population density of the species in our study area corresponds with the densities of the other similar owl species in the Tropics.
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Livestock and Poultry Management"]

Updating the distribution of Vampyrum spectrum (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) in Colombia: new localities, potential distribution and notes on its conservation
The Spectral Bat (Vampyrum spectrum) is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In Colombia, it has not been included in any risk assessments, because it is a poorly documented species in the country. Using new occurrence data and ecological niche modelling we evaluate the distribution and analyze the species’ ecological and conservation needs in Colombia. With the new records, V. spectrum shows a distribution over six biogeographic provinces in the country, along an elevational range between 96 and 1750 m. The Spectral Bat has been reported in a wide variety of ecosystems from dry forest and fragmented landscapes, to forested areas. Predictive models suggest a wider presence of this species in the west of the country, center, and southern Andes. The limited number of specimens limits our attempt to evaluate morphometric variation among Colombian populations; however, we detect a variation in the mean value of the forearm and ear length regarding northeast South American populations. Areas with the greatest potential distribution detected in this study could be prioritized in conservation strategies, and make plans accordingly for this and other species that coexist in its range. Finally, we highlight the low representativeness of Protected Areas for the Spectral Bat and add some ecological notes about this rare species.
["Carnivorous bat"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

The underground sex life of the Guatemalan Spike-thumb Frog (Plectrohyla guatemalensis)
Two populations of Plectrohyla guatemalensis from two different sites in Sacatepéquez, Guatemala, were monitored for three consecutive rainy seasons, and noteworthy reproductive behavior was observed. The objective of the surveys was to assess the impact of nearby high-tension power lines, but additional information could be obtained. Our observations that male vocalizations to attract females occurred in the crevices of rocks in streams, inside which females lay eggs, suggest that the species’ reproduction is closely linked to the presence of such crevices. Any clutches were then guarded by the male until hatching. We inferred the existence of male-male competition for gaining control of these reproduction sites building upon previous observations, remarks about the genus and other species with similar patterns, and evidence of such aggression, although we did not directly observe any. Also, with the help of local wardens, we recorded vocalizations in mid-January, extending the previously reported reproductive period for this species. We therefore consider the conservation and restoration of rocky streams with adequate forest coverage to be an important conservation action for this species.

Vegetation structure as the main source of variability in scorpion assemblages at small spatial scales and further considerations for the conservation of Caatinga landscapes
Even at the local scale, environmental changes due of anthropogenic actions represent a source of disturbance in terrestrial ecosystems, forcing species to respond according to their ecological plasticity. Thus, stenotopic species and those with low-dispersal ability will likely be negatively affected by landscape modifications that reduce environmental complexity. In this study, we identify and quantify the effects of biotic and abiotic factors related to habitat complexity on the variation in scorpion assemblages in terms of both species’ richness, abundance and composition across 18 transects covering Caatinga landscapes with different levels of degradation. Using ultraviolet flashlights, we sampled 269 scorpions, belonging to six species and two families. The results showed contrasting patterns of species richness and abundance that depend on the level of habitat complexity. More specifically, we reported that scorpion species richness could be predicted by the number of trees, while the coefficient of variation of the diameter at breast height of trees (cvDBH) is a predictor of scorpion abundance. These findings suggest that vegetation structure is deterministic for the maintenance of scorpion assemblages in Caatinga landscapes. In addition, the cvDBH and tree number may explain 39% and 40% of the variability observed amongst scorpion assemblages in terms of richness difference and species composition, respectively. This study provides insights concerning the development of conservation strategies, clarifying the role of habitat complexity for the preservation of low-dispersal animals in neglected environments, such as those within the Caatinga domain.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Study of Mite Species"]

New records on distribution and habitat of the lesser long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris yerbabuenae) in Honduras
The lesser long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris yerbabuenae Martínez & Villa-R, 1940) is a specialized nectar feeding species found from southern USA to Nicaragua in Central America, mostly in dry forest. We sampled bats using mist nets and Anabat detectors, and also looked for them at refuges and other sites in Honduras from 2011 to 2016. The lesser long-nosed bat is known in Honduras from only two localities in the southern dry forests below 100 m elevation, and there are no recent records of this species in the country. Our objective is to report new records on distribution and habitat of the lesser long-nosed bat in Honduras. We found eight lesser long-nosed bats at Cerro de Hula, Francisco Morazán department in 2012, and 10 at La Anonilla, Choluteca department, southern Honduras in 2015. Based on these 18 individuals of the lesser long-nosed bat, we report two new localities in Honduras, an altitude record, and the use of another habitat other than the dry forest. The highest point registered was at 1710 m a.s.l. in pastureland with forest remnants in an area heavily impacted by human activities. The new localities are found in the Subtropical Moist Forest. Populations of long-nosed bats in Honduras are probably resident and may include altitudinal movements. Although this species has been described widely in North America, its behavior in Honduras is practically unknown. It is a key species for the tequila and mezcal industry, but its range extends beyond the tequila production area, where it maintains a key role as a pollinator and link between habitats. As a result, research and conservation efforts should be an international goal.
["Choluteca"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Bat assemblage at a high diversity locality in the Atlantic Forest
The Estação Biológica Santa Lúcia (EBSL) is one of the oldest reserves in Brazil, used as a research site since 1939 by the naturalist Augusto Ruschi. It is an Atlantic Forest fragment, and its fauna and flora have been studied throughout the years. However, its chiropteran fauna remains virtually unknown. Here, we aim to provide a bat species list for EBSL. We installed mist-nets over 19 nights from mid-2009 to mid-2010, with a sampling effort of 20 875.5 m2.h. We captured 204 specimens, from two families and 22 species. Ecological analysis reveals a medium to high diversity, heavily dominated by frugivorous species. The collector’s curve and the estimative of species richness suggests that the chiropteran fauna at EBSL remains partially unknown, and we encourage further inventories.
["Augusto Ruschi"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new record of the exotic Guapote jaguar, Parachromis managuensis (Günther, 1867) (Cichliformes, Cichlidae) in a tropical coastal lagoon of the Mexican Pacific slope
The presence of Parachromis managuensis has been reported for the first time in the Tres Palos Lagoon, State of Guerrero, on the coastal Lagoon of the Mexican Pacific slope. Two specimens (189 mm and 215 mm standard length) were caught by local fishermen from the community of San Pedro de Las Playas. A description of the morphological and meristic characters of the specimens is provided. The natural distribution of the species is from Honduras to Costa Rica and, as it is predatory and highly territorial, in conjunction with other introduced species, it can present a risk to native species and alter the biological dynamics in the lagoon system.
["Eastern Pacific"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Notes on the natural history of the Stump-tailed Porcupine, Coendou rufescens (Rodentia, Erethizontidae), in Colombia
Porcupines of the genus Coendou are among the least studied mammals in the Neotropics. The Stump-tailed Porcupine, Coendou rufescens, is distributed in the Andean region from Colombia and south to Bolivia. Despite its wide distribution, nothing is known about its natural history, besides observation of banana consumption in captivity. Here we present new observations on the feeding habits, diurnal activity, and the use of the tail for support during feeding obtained by means of collaborative (citizen) science. We also comment on its locomotion on land and in trees. We observed five diurnal events of C. rufescens feeding on infructescences of trumpet tree (Cecropia angustifolia Trécul). During the feeding activities, the Stump-tailed Porcupine used the tail for stability and support. These are the first observations of such behavior in the wild for this species and suggest a more diurnal activity for this species which belongs to a group of rodents traditionally considered to be predominantly nocturnal.
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

One side makes you taller: a mushroom–eating butterfly caterpillar (Lycaenidae) in Costa Rica
Electrostrymon denarius is the first mushroom-feeding butterfly caterpillar discovered in the New World. It belongs to the Calycopidina, a subtribe of lycaenid butterflies whose caterpillars eat detritus and seeds in the leaf litter. Electrostrymon denarius has not been reared previously, and we illustrate and briefly describe the biology and morphology of its caterpillar and pupa. The significance of this discovery is that it increases the range of organic leaf litter substrates that Calycopidina caterpillars will eat. Increased diet breadth may decrease the likelihood of species extinction.
["Detritivory"]

First documented predation of a Baird’s tapir by a jaguar in the Calakmul region, Mexico
To date, records of predation on Baird’s tapir (Tapirus bairdii) by jaguars (Panthera onca) were anecdotal and did not allow for differentiation regarding whether the animal had been preyed upon or scavenged. Here, we present the first documented event of predation on a Baird’s tapir by a jaguar in the Calakmul region, Campeche, Mexico. In August 2017, we observed a jaguar eating a juvenile female Baird’s tapir; when we analysed the skull, we observed the characteristic “lethal bite” with which jaguars kill their prey by piercing the temporal and parietal bones with their canine teeth. Jaguars select to attack tapirs when they are most vulnerable (young or sick). Records of these type of events are important for understanding the food webs and ecology of these iconic Neotropical species that inhabit the Mesoamerican forests.
["Greater Calakmul Region"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Re-discovery of Catasetum mojuense (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae), a poorly-known Amazonian species
The re-discovery of Catasetum mojuense A.T. Oliveira & J.B.F. Silva (Orchidaceae), an Amazonian species described in 1999 from the State of Pará, Brazil, is reported. In addition to geographic distribution data, a morphological description, taxonomical and ecological comments, conservation status assessment and photographs of C. mojuense are also provided. The species is characterised by having epiphytic habit, non-resupinate staminate flowers, brown-spotted petals, galeiform and smooth (no ribs) lip, lateral lobes with sparsely short-fimbriate margins and convergent antennae. Catasetum mojuense is morphologically similar to Catasetum discolor (Lindl.) Lindl, but is easily distinguished by the longer sepals and petals and the spotted petals on the staminate flowers. The new locality of occurence for C. mojuense is approximately 190 km east of the type locality, also in the State of Pará. The species is assessed as Critically Endangered. Habitat depletion and the limited number of sites of occurrence are the main concern for the conservation of C. mojuense.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Anurofauna of a remnant of Atlantic Forest in northeast Brazil
Studies on spatial occupation are fundamental to understand amphibian communities. The aim of this study was to record information on the spatial distribution of anurans in the Tejipió forest, state of Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil. Fieldwork was carried out weekly between October 2011 and April 2012, with daytime and night-time excursions for time-constrained active searching, in forested and open areas, military construction area and water bodies. Pitfall traps and accidental sightings were also used as alternative collection methods. Data were used to calculate richness, rarefaction curves and richness estimators. A total of 21 species were recorded, distributed in six families: Bufonidae (2 spp.); Craugastoridae (1 sp.); Hylidae (8 spp.); Leptodactylidae (8 spp.); Microhylidae (1 sp.) and Phyllomedusidae (1 sp.). Only the species Rhinella jimi was found occupying all sampled habitats in the research area. Adenomera hylaedactyla and Pristimantis ramagii deserve special care in the area because they are specialists, occupying a smaller number of habitats and microhabitats. The community of anurans of the Tejipió forest is similar to those recorded in other areas of the Atlantic Forest at the Pernambuco state, and its knowledge is essential as a basis for conservation of the area. The gradual recovery of this Atlantic Forest remnant would favor the recolonization of fauna and flora and the conservation of local biodiversity.
["abundance"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Wildlife associated with burrows of Dolichotis patagonum in central west Argentina
Community structure is strongly influenced by positive interactions between species. Detecting and describing these interactions is essential in the study of communities. Dolichotis patagonum Zimmermann, 1780 (CN: mara) is a cavid rodent that builds burrows for breeding. In this study, camera traps were used to identify which species use the burrows built by maras in Sierra de las Quijadas National Park, San Luis, Argentina. All burrows were used by other species. A total of 68.7% of all medium- and small-sized taxa recorded in this study used the burrows. This is a clear indicator of the role of D. patagonum as an ecosystem engineer in this environment.
["camera traps"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Aberrant plumage records in Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis (Aves: Charadriidae)
Aberrant colored plumages in birds are not uncommon events in nature. These cases might be associated with genetic, environmental and nutritional factors, the presence of parasites, or even age. This study had the objective of reporting two new aberrant plumage cases in Vanellus chilensis individuals, an individual with progressive greying and a melanistic one, and review information available at the “Birds of Brazil Encyclopedia” (WikiAves). The study also presents a case review of published cases in indexed journals about V. chilensis aberrant coloring published in indexed journals. In total, 24 cases of V. chilensis individuals with aberrant plumage are known. For some cases following current specialized literature, we only suggest changes to progressive graying and brown. Finally, we encourage researchers to publish their records of birds with aberrant plumage in scientific journals.
["brown"]
["melanin and skin pigmentation", "Antioxidant Activity and Oxidative Stress", "Plant and animal studies"]

Rediscovery of Vampyressa thyone (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) in Honduras: updated distribution and notes on its conservation
In Central America, Vampyressa is represented by two species, Vampyressa elisabethae and V. thyone. The latter is the only representative of the genus in Honduras and the most recent record was in 2007. Six surveys were carried out in the Departments of Cortés, Atlántida and Gracias a Dios. Only seven individuals of V. thyone were recorded between March 2016 and September 2017. The low abundance of V. thyone supports the fact that it is an uncommon species in the country; however, these records update the distribution in northern Honduras. We recommend systematic bat assessments on the three protected areas in which we recorded V. thyone for a better comprehension of the local populations on this species in the country.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Influence of abiotic factors in a population of Parides ascanius (Papilionidae, Lepidoptera) in an urban restinga fragment
Fragmentation and loss of natural habitats has reduced biodiversity in neotropical ecosystems. The restinga, a phytophysiognomy of the Atlantic Forest, has lost much of its original coverage and remains largely threatened by urbanisation. Restingas are considered hotspots of biodiversity and are listed as priority areas for conservation due to their great presence of endemic species, such as the endangered butterfly Parides ascanius Cramer, 1775. In this work, we analyse the influence of abiotic factors (temperature and humidity) on the abundance of P. ascanius in an urban restinga fragment of Iriry’s Environmental Protection Area (Iriry APA), located in the municipality of Rio das Ostras in Rio de Janeiro. For that, the mark-recapture technique was used. Sampling was carried out from October 2017 to May 2018, between 7:00 am and 11:00 am. Seventy-two individuals of P. ascanius were collected and showed higher proportions of males over females and greater abundance of individuals in the month of October. On average, the number of individuals was significantly higher with the increase in air temperature and lower with the increase in air humidity. The abundance of P. ascanius at the restinga of Iriry APA varied monthly and temporally throughout the day, influenced by temperature and air humidity. The results provide information that can support management plans for conservation of this threatened species, as well as for urban areas of the Atlantic Forest.
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Filling gaps in the southern range of the endangered snake Philodryas agassizii: new localities in Tandilia highland grassland, Argentina
Philodryas agassizii is an endangered snake of shrubland and grasslands well preserved in Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, and Uruguay. In the southeastern area of its range, this snake was only found associated with highland grassland of the Tandilia and Ventania mountain systems, Argentina. In this work, we described six new records of Philodryas agassizii from the Tandilia Mountain System, which represent four new localities for the species. These records extend the known range of Philodryas agassizii in the Tandilia mountain system, 100 km from the closest previously known site.
["geographic distribution"]

Rapid survey of bats (Chiroptera) in the Atlantic Forest in eastern Sergipe, Brazil: unexpected diversity in a fragmented landscape
Despite advances in recent decades, the Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil is still one of the least studied regions of the country, regarding, for instance, the bat fauna. The present study reports on the results of a rapid survey of the bat fauna of a fragmented landscape in the Atlantic Forest of eastern Sergipe, in the legal forest reserve of Fazenda Santana, a commercial sugarcane plantation located in the adjoining municipalities of Japoatã and Pacatuba. We recorded 272 bats belonging to 23 species and four families, from which 265 individuals from 18 species from two families (Phyllostomidae and Vespertilionidae) were captured in the mist-nets, and seven individuals of six species from four families (Emballonuridae, Molossidae, Phyllostomidae and Vespertilionidae) were recorded during the active searches. This species richness was higher than that found in previous studies in the Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil. Lasiurus blossevillii and Micronycteris minuta were recorded in Sergipe for the first time, increasing to 57 the number of bat species known to occur in this state. The use of alternative strategies (such as active search and sampling one night per point, seeking to areas with greater availability of resources) in rapid surveys may contribute to the compilation of a more robust sampling, reinforcing the usefulness of this approach for the inventory of the bat fauna of a given region.
["Lasiurus blossevillii"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Geographic distribution and conservation of seasonal killifishes (Cyprinodontiformes, Rivulidae) from the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga ecoregion, northeastern Brazil
The Rivulidae fish family, which includes Neotropical seasonal killifishes, is one of the most diverse taxonomic groups in the aquatic systems of Caatinga in Brazil. Cynolebias and Hypsolebias genera, with 20 and 35 endemic species, respectively, concentrate the greatest diversity of rivulid species in the semiarid. Sixty-eight years after the first records of annual killifishes in the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga ecoregion (MNCE), only four valid species have been sampled in this area. Here we combined bibliographic surveys and recent samplings to investigate the distribution of seasonal rivulids in MNCE. Twenty-one records were obtained, nine of which are new localities, expanding the distribution of three species: Hypsolebias martinsi, H. antenori and Cynolebias microphthalmus. Hypsolebias longignatus is still only known from its type locality in Ceará, near the Environmental Protection Area in Pacoti River, and has not been sampled ever since its description in 2008. Among the four species present in MNCE, H. antenori is the only species occurring within the limits of a conservation unit in the Furna Feia National Park. Anthropogenic impacts were observed in most temporary habitats visited, which ranged from river channel to small ponds in cave entrances. All records are found in coastal basins that discharge in the northern coast of the MNCE, in Ceará and Rio Grande do Norte states, which are crucial for the conservation of the Caatinga’s killifishes. The results also evidenced the importance of karstic habitats in the Jandaíra Formation as potential biotopes for seasonal fish in MNCE. This information must be used to update the conservation status of these species and highlight the importance of strategies for preserving the Caatinga’s temporary aquatic habitats, which should be considered for environmental licensing purposes.
["Dry lands"]

Mammals of Paso Centurión, an area with relicts of Atlantic Forest in Uruguay
Paso Centurión is one of the most diverse areas of Uruguay. It is legally protected at local and national level, however, there are different interests competing for its land use and management. With the aim to document the biodiversity of the area together with the local people, the NGO JULANA has been conducting a participatory monitoring process with camera traps since 2013. Here, we present a list of 23 medium and large-size mammal species documented in the area and a standardised dataset of occurrence records. Top observations include the last Chrysocyon brachyurus seen in Uruguay, the first record of Herpailurus yagouaroundi in the country and the second report of Leopardus munoai in the area. We also highlight the frequent observation of numerous rare species such as Tamandua tetradactyla, Leopardus wiedii, Cabassous tatouay, Coendou spinosus and Cuniculus paca. Although the cameras were located within only a few metres of the houses of the local people, some of the rarest and most elusive species in the country were reported. This suggests a possible coexistence between people – their socio-economic practices – and nature in the area. Our work underlines the importance of the recent inclusion of Paso Centurión and Sierra de Ríos to the National System of Protected Areas under the proposed category of ‘Protected Landscape’. Collectively, in a context of global change and lack of biodiversity data on species distribution, we emphasise the value of these records for the knowledge of mammals in Uruguay and the need to extend and continue monitoring this area.
["biodiversity conservation"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Zoonotic diseases and public health", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Community of diurnal birds of prey in an urban area in southeastern Brazil
As urban areas expand, some species of diurnal birds of prey occupy these habitats, and many establish viable populations. The objectives of this study were to: (1) survey the species of birds of prey in the urban area located in the interior of the São Paulo state, Brazil, (2) to verify the proportion of generalist and specialist species in terms of habitat and diet, (3) determine the period that the species are more active during the time period of the point counts, and (4) to evaluate if there is a pattern of seasonality. Samples were collected monthly between October 2014 and September 2016 using the point counts method (four points; 4 hr duration each). We analyzed species richness, habitat and diet, number of contacts and frequency of occurrence, period of greatest activity, and seasonality. We recorded 19 species of birds of prey through 2555 contacts. Most of the registered species (61%) were habitat and diet generalists, and the same percentage of species classified as uncommon or rare. In relation to the period of greatest activity, falconids were more active in the first hour while accipitrids and cathartids were more active in the fourth hour. In addition, we did not observe a seasonal pattern in this community, but Gampsonyx swainsonii showed a seasonal trend. We verified that the urban area of the municipality of Pirajuí has a significant diversity of birds of prey, including specialist species of habitat and diet. This information obtained evidence the importance of urban environments for birds of prey and showed the ability of these species to use this environment. From our results, we suggest that future studies should evaluate the effects of urban areas of different sizes and degrees of urbanization on bird of prey communities.
["neotropical region"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Diet and foraging behavior of Ageneiosus inermis (Teleostei, Auchenipteridae)
Ageneiosus inermis is the largest species of the family Auchenipteridae (Siluriformes) and has a primarily piscivorous diet, although no comprehensive data are available on the habitat use of this species. Given this, the present study describes the diet of A. inermis, and provides inferences on its habitat use, based on the known behavior of its prey species. We analyzed the stomach contents of 14 specimens collected in the middle of Xingu River in the Brazilian state of Pará, which we complemented with data on 47 other specimens obtained from two published studies. Most of the ingested items were fish associated with the bottom substrate and riverbanks. Although A. inermis is considered a pelagic species, we conclude it forages by exploring the river’s bottom and margins. Furthermore, as A. inermis is presumed to be diurnal, we assume that it does not pursue its prey actively, given that most of the prey species are nocturnal, but rather searches actively during the daytime for prey hidden in the bottom substrate. This hypothesis on the feeding strategy of A. inermis can only be confirmed by underwater observations, either in the wild or under captive conditions.

First record of albinism in the paca Cuniculus paca (Rodentia, Cuniculidae) in southeast Mexico
Even though there have been reports of anomalies in the colouration of several species of neotropical mammals, these events are considered to be rare within natural populations. Here we report the first case of albinism in the paca (Cuniculus paca). During the months of June and July 2017, we obtained several images of an adult albino male using camera traps in the region of Sierra Norte in Oaxaca, in the southeast of Mexico, in a medium subdeciduous forest.
["camera trapping"]
["melanin and skin pigmentation", "Olfactory and Sensory Function Studies", "Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques"]

New records of Clytoctantes alixii (Elliot, 1870) in Eastern Caldas, Colombia
Clytoctantes alixii is a bird that lives on the edges of old-growth, secondary and cleared forests undergoing regeneration and presents a distribution restricted to Colombia and Venezuela. The species is considered to be at risk of extinction (EN) due to its particular characteristics and restricted distribution. However, knowledge of its ecology and distribution is still incipient. The objective of this study was therefore to expand the knowledge of C. alixii in Caldas, present the southernmost record of the species and describe its behaviour. The species was monitored within the protected areas of the Manso Diversion in the period 2014 and 2017, using mist nets and fixed radius point counts. Two individuals of C. alixii were recorded, both by observation, with one of these subsequently also captured in a forest in an advanced state of succession. Recording of this population is important because it is the southernmost in the Cordillera Central and confirms that habitats with the presence of hollow stem plants largely define the presence of the species, as well as potentially determining the location of other populations of this species within its range of distribution.
["extinction risk"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Potential impact of mammal defaunation on the early regeneration of a large-seeded palm in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Defaunation, the decline in animal species and populations, is biased towards large-bodied animals that have unique roles as dispersers of large seeds. However, it is speculated that these roles may still be performed by smaller animals, such as small mammals like rodents and marsupials, that thrive in defaunated sites. We investigated if small mammals can disperse the large-seeded palm Attalea dubia. We performed the study in a well-conserved Atlantic Forest remnant in southeast Brazil that still harbours large mammals, such as tapirs. Focal observations showed that capuchin-monkeys consumed the mesocarp of the fruits and dropped the seeds beneath the plant crown thereafter. Mammals preyed on ca. 1% and removed ca. 15% of the fallen fruit/seed and deposited them up to 15 m away. Amongst them, small mammals (< 1 kg), such as the squirrel Guerlinguetus brasiliensis and non-identified nocturnal Sigmodontinae, as well as the marsupial Philander frenatus performed the bulk of interactions. Dispersal enhances recruitment, but the short distances of seed removal did not match the current spatial distribution of palm seedlings and juveniles. Recaching rates of hoarded seeds were small (2%) and unlikely to increase distances of seed dispersal achieved. Short distances of dispersal would increase plant clumpiness and negative density-dependent effects with time. Although small mammals can provide legitimate dispersal, they cannot fully replace larger frugivorous mammals and maintain long-distance seed dispersal that feeds plant metapopulation dynamics and seed gene flow.
["Attalea"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Use of microhabitat and activity patterns of two lizard species from a seasonal dry forest in northern Colombia
In this work, the microhabitat use and activity patterns of two lizard species with sympatric distribution were evaluated in a dry forest fragment within the department of Sucre, northern Colombia. Data was collected in May, June, September and October of 2017, using the active search method limited by time (7:00 and 19:00 hours). Substrates used, spatial distribution and time of capture were recorded for individuals of the species Loxopholis rugiceps (Cope 1869) and Lepidoblepharis sanctaemartae (Ruthven 1916). Complementarily, environmental and physical parameters were recorded, which allowed us to characterise the microhabitats of the species. A total of 276 lizards were recorded, 177 belonging to the species Loxopholis rugiceps and 99 to Lepidoblepharis sanctaemartae. The results showed similar resource use by the two species for the spatial dimension, with both exploiting different terrestrial elements mainly from the interior forest, followed by the riverbed stream and forest edge. Differences were found in the daily activity patterns between species, with individuals of L. sanctaemartae more frequently recorded in the morning hours and L. rugiceps in the afternoon hours. The activity patterns did not differ by age groups: juveniles and adults. Both species were more frequently found in the litter substrate within the forest, followed by rocks and bare ground. Our results indicate that both species are tolerant to matrix conditions, however, they require internal forest conditions to exploit food resources and refuge.
["ecological niche"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Bat diversity in three roosts in the Coast region of Oaxaca, México
In this paper, we analyze the richness, abundance, diversity and trophic guilds in a mine (La Mina) and two caves (El Apanguito and Cerro Huatulco) in the municipalities of Pluma Hidalgo and Santa María Huatulco, in the state of Oaxaca, México, a state with high species richness of bats nationwide. Fieldwork was conducted from July 2016 to June 2017. Using a harp trap, we captured 5,836 bats belonging to 14 species, 10 genera and five families. The greatest species richness was found in Cerro Huatulco (12 species), followed by La Mina (nine species) and El Apanguito (four species). Overall, the most abundant species were Pteronotus fulvus (40.59% of captures) and Pteronotus mesoamericanus (32.01%). Half of the species captured corresponded to the insectivore trophic guild. Results show that the three roosts, but particularly Cerro Huatulco and El Apanguito, maintain high species richness and abundances of individuals due to processes that favor colonies of thousands of individuals. We therefore argue that they represent priority roosts for the conservation of bats in the State of Oaxaca.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Marine gastropods of Accra Beach, Barbados, North Atlantic Ocean
The widespread occurrence of marine gastropods in coastal regions is a straightforward evidence of successful adaptation to different environments. In the Caribbean Sea, as one of Conservation International’s biodiversity hotspots, little is known about the gastropod fauna, especially in the Eastern Caribbean. The present study contributed to bridge this gap by studying the biodiversity of gastropods from Accra Beach, Barbados. Throughout random collections in September 2015, we collected 321 gastropods, comprising eight species, distributed in three families (Neritidae: Nerita tessellata, N. fulgurans, N. versicolor and N. peloronta; Littorinidae: Echinolittorina ziczac, E. angustior and E. tuberculata; and Muricidae: Plicopurpura patula). Nerites were more abundant and diverse, highlighting N. tessellata, representing 66% of the sampled gastropods. This paper also reports the first record of N. fulgurans and E. angustior for the island of Barbados.
["Echinolittorina angustior"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Vertical stratification of phyllostomid bats assemblage (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) in a forest fragment in Brazilian Southwestern Amazon
Bats represent a key group in tropical forest dynamics, given their participation in ecological interactions that lead the regulation of these forests. They are also sensitive to the heterogeneous vertical gradient in the forest, called stratification. In this study we evaluated the influence of two different forest strata on species composition and bat guild structure. The samplings were carried out over eight nights in a forest fragment located in the southwest of the Amazon; we used mist nets installed in the understory and sub-canopy. A total of 197 captures were distributed in 19 genera and 25 species; they were all representatives of the family Phyllostomidae. In the sub-canopy, 54 individuals and 15 species were captured, with four exclusive species. In the understory, 143 individuals of 21 species were recorded, of which 10 were exclusive of this stratum. The sub-canopy presented a diversity index greater than the understory, with differences between species composition of the two assemblies, due to the presence or absence of some species. We also found a variation in the presence of frugivorous, insectivorous and omnivorous species, which is the result of differences in the foraging methods of these species and also of the habitat preference. Differences were verified in the assemblies studied, demonstrating the effects of vertical stratification on the bats in the studied fragment. Studies that consider more than one vertical stratum in tropical forests are more representative than sampling with only understory mist nets, given the capture of exclusive species.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Effects of Environmental Stressors on Livestock", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Phytosociology of the shrub-arboreal stratum of the Ibura National Forest, Northeastern Brazil: are 35 years sufficient to promote the regeneration of a forest fragment?
Among the various applications of phytosociology, the evaluation of natural regeneration is of great importance, mainly because it provides insights for ecological restoration. The objective of this study was to analyze the composition and phytosociological parameters of shrub and tree vegetation in areas of plantation of eucalyptus (Corymbia citriodora) and areas of native forest in the Ibura National Forest, located in the Sergipe state of northeastern Brazil. For this purpose, 20 plots were sampled and all individuals with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 8 cm were measured. Sampling revealed 821 individuals in the forest area and 1,000 in the eucalyptus area. These individuals represent 84 species and the areas presented a significant difference in species composition, with 61 in the eucalyptus area and 65 in the Forest area, and only 40 species were common to both areas. There was a predominance of pioneer individuals in the eucalyptus area. There also was a significant difference in basal area, relative density and relative dominance, but no significant differences were observed in average height. It was concluded that a period of 35 years is insufficient for the recovery of the eucalyptus area, which remains in a more initial successional stage than the forest area.
["Alantic Forest"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

First host plant record for Pacarina (Hemiptera, Cicadidae)
Twenty-nine Pacarina (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) adults, 12 males and 17 females, emerged from the soil of a potted Dracaena trifasciata (Asparagaceae) in Arraiján, Republic of Panama, providing the first rearing records and the first definitive host plant records for any species of Pacarina. These reared Pacarina appear to be morphologically distinct from all known species of Pacarina and likely represent an undescribed species. In light of this finding, we also discuss the taxonomy, biogeography, and ecology of Pacarina.
["cicada"]

Serras e pantanais arenosos: solos e geoambientes em unidade de conservação da Amazônia, Brasil
Unidades de conservação representam a principal estratégia para a preservação e recuperação de recursos naturais brasileiros. Para nortear o seu planejamento e gestão, informações relativas aos geoambientes constituem um referencial integrado indispensável. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os aspectos pedológicos associados à identificação, caracterização e mapeamento de geoambientes do Parque Nacional Serra da Mocidade, Roraima, norte do Brasil, de forma a subsidiar o manejo ecológico da unidade. Para a estratificação geoambiental foram avaliados os aspectos pedológicos, geomorfológicos e vegetação. Foram descritos e coletados 19 perfis de solos. A caracterização da vegetação foi realizada in loco. Foram descritos quatro pedoambientes, com destaque para os seguintes solos: Espodossolo Humilúvico, Espodossolo Ferri-Humilúvico, Espodossolo Ferrilúvico, Neossolo Quartzarênico, Neossolo Regolítico, Neossolo Flúvico, Plintossolo Háplico, Plintossolo Argilúvico, Gleissolo Melânico e Cambissolo Háplico. Foram identificadas 12 unidades geoambientais. No Parque, destaca-se um contraste entre serras e morrarias da zona florestada e os grandes espaços inundáveis e baixios do pediplano Rio Branco-Rio Negro. Além disso, essa área de conservação possui o mais antigo e, provavelmente, o mais importante conjunto montanhoso granítico-gnáissico do norte amazônico, de grande extensão e topografia complexa. Este estudo evidencia a singularidade de cada geoambiente, subsidiando na definição mais precisa e adequada das formas de manejo do Parque.
["Parque Nacional Serra da Mocidade"]
["Geography and Environmental Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geological formations and processes"]

Novos registros de Sphaenorhynchus canga (Amphibia, Anura, Hylidae) no Quadrilátero Ferrífero em Minas Gerais, Sudeste do Brasil
A perereca Sphaenorhynchus canga foi recentemente descrita, com distribuição geográfica restrita, na borda leste do Quadrilátero Ferrífero em Minas Gerais. A espécie foi originalmente registrada em cinco lagoas ou poças naturais em área de campo rupestre ferruginoso (canga), na região da Chapada de Canga e entorno. A partir de amostragens em campo e análise de coleção científica, são apresentados novos registros geográficos da espécie. Sphaenorhynchus canga foi registrado em sete novas localidades de corpos d’água lênticos, tanto naturais quanto antrópicos (pequenas represas), em áreas de campo rupestre ferruginoso e floresta estacional semidecidual antropizada. Como a descrição da espécie baseou-se apenas em machos, apresenta-se a morfometria das fêmeas analisadas, que se apresentaram maiores que machos. Seis localidades situam-se externamente aos limites da Chapada de Canga, mas S. canga continua sendo endêmico do Quadrilátero Ferrífero. São discutidos possíveis padrões de distribuição de S. canga e a influência da distribuição geográfica conhecida e da plasticidade ecológica sobre ameaças à espécie.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Diet of Natalus mexicanus (Chiroptera, Natalidae) in a semi-evergreen forest in Oaxaca, Mexico
We investigated the diet composition of Natalus mexicanus in a semi-evergreen forest in the state of Oaxaca, in the southeast of Mexico, using fecal analysis. The diet was composed of eight arthropod orders, the most abundant and important preys being members of the orders Diptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Hymenoptera. We did not observe significant differences in diet composition between males and females or in proportions consumed by the bats and those obtained through collections with light traps. In the study area, N. mexicanus is a species with a generalist opportunist diet.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Effects of Environmental Stressors on Livestock", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Rediscovery of the enigmatic forest racer snake, Dendrophidion boshelli Dunn, 1944 (Serpentes, Colubridae): actions for the conservation of a critically endangered species
Dendrophidion boshelli is a poorly known and endemic snake species from the Middle Magdalena river valley in Colombia. It was described in 1944 based on a single specimen from the municipality of Caparrapí, department of Cundinamarca. Since the original description, only three additional specimens have been established. As part of the results of a herpetological monitoring in the Miel I Hydroelectric project, department of Caldas-Colombia, three additional specimens of D. boshelli were found in 2014–2015. The specimens represent the second known population of the species. We presented morphological data and pholidosis; description of the coloration in life, and a description of the habitat. Recently, D. boshelli was included as a Critically Endangered (CR) species in the Red Book of Reptiles of Colombia, and the IUCN Redlist. For this reason, to promote the local conservation of this and other endemic and threatened species in the Miel I area, we suggested some actions at the local level, such as establishing a conservation area with legal status in the Middle Manso River basin, which is a tributary of the Miel I Hydroelectric project.
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Presence of the collared peccary Pecari tajacu (Artiodactyla, Tayassuidae) in the far northeast of its Brazilian distribution
The collared peccary Pecari tajacu (Artiodactyla, Tayassuidae) is widely distributed and included in the Least Concern (LC) category by the IUCN assessment. However, threats such as hunting and habitat loss have extinguished some of its populations in Brazil. Additionally, much of its current occupation area remains unknown, especially in northeastern Brazil. We herein present the first record of the collared peccary in a Caatinga-Atlantic Forest ecotone in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, northeastern Brazil. This record in a poorly sampled region represents the presence of this species in the most northeastern part of the country and extends its confirmed records for more than 200 km.
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Estimation of the species richness of hyperdiverse beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in an area of Atlantic Forest, Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil
Species are elementary units in community ecology studies. However, sample limitations obstruct the elaboration of accurate faunistic inventories, especially in biodiversity hotspots, such as tropical forests. In this way, the objective of this research was to describe the richness, using different non-parametric estimators of richness, in the family Cerambycidade, a group of hyperdiverse insects in the Atlantic Forest. Five hundred and eighty-one specimens belonging to 145 species and 3 subfamilies were collected. Among the species sampled, 46.2% were considered singletons, 13.8% doubletons, 48.95% unicates, 15.15% duplicates and 90.3% ecologically rare. The species accumulation curves did not stabilize, which was already expected considering that more species and individuals were sampled in the last months of collection. The estimated richness presented values much higher than the observed richness. This was a reflect of the high proportion of ecologically rare species present in the sample. This work showed that faunistic inventories of hyperdiverse groups, with only one year of collection and a single sampling methodology may underestimate the species richness of a region. Thus, larger time series associated with different collection methods are essential for a more accurate survey of biodiversity in the Atlantic Forest.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

First report of Rhabdochona acuminata (Nematoda, Rhabdochonidae) in Astyanax aff. fasciatus (Characiformes, Characidae) from Lake Guaíba, southern Brazil
Specimens of Rhabdochona (Rhabdochona) acuminata (Molin, 1860) were collected in Astyanax aff. fasciatus (Cuvier, 1819) from Lake Guaíba, municipalities of Guaíba (30°08.28'S, 51°18.53'W) and Barra do Ribeiro (30°17.11'S, 51°18.01'W), southern Brazil. In the present study, the prevalence of R. (R.) acuminata was low (1.43%) when compared to other studies performed with Astyanax spp. from Brazil. The specimens of R. (R.) acuminata showed some morphological differences (mainly the deirids) that have not yet been reported for the species. This is the first report of R. (R.) acuminata from Lake Guaíba, filling a gap of occurrence of this nematode in South America.
["Characid"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Padrões espaciais da vegetação lenhosa associados ao processo de expansão da Floresta com Araucaria sobre Campos excluídos de manejo
O processo de expansão florestal tem sido observado em regiões de mosaicos de campo-floresta no Sul do Brasil, especialmente em campos excluídos de fogo e pastejo. Outros fatores influenciam esse processo, porém a magnitude ainda permanece pouco compreendida. Neste estudo, avaliamos os padrões da vegetação lenhosa estabelecida num campo excluído de manejo por 34 anos, relacionando-os com variáveis de solo e espaço. Estabelecemos 110 parcelas (113 m2 cada) de forma sistemática sobre áreas mapeadas como campos em 1985, na Estação Ecológica de Aracuri, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Foram amostrados todos os indivíduos lenhosos e variáveis de solo. Análises de ordenação e de partição da variância da composição de espécies nos componentes solo, espaço, e solo estruturado no espaço foram empregadas. Os padrões da vegetação foram melhor explicados pelo espaço, principalmente a distância da área fonte florestal. Comunidades mais próximas da antiga borda florestal são caracterizadas por mais espécies e indivíduos com dispersão zoocórica. Áreas mais distantes têm predomínio de arbustos campestres (Baccharis uncinella) e poucas arbóreas se estabeleceram. O solo apresentou baixa explicação (5%), porém as condições modificam-se conforme o desenvolvimento florestal avança. Concluímos que a expansão florestal em área excluída de distúrbios tem forte associação com o espaço – a distância de áreas fonte, e que os fatores edáficos pouco contribuem com a magnitude do avanço sobre o campo.
["Expans\u00e3o florestal"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Amazonian Archaeology and Ethnohistory", "Plant and animal studies"]

Ferruginous Rupestrian Savannah: a floristic and structural analysis of these rare environments
The flora of the Rupestrian Savannah (Cerrado Rupestre) is composed of widely distributed species and endemic species from high altitude rocky outcrops. The aim of this study was to characterise the floristic composition, structure and diversity of fragments of Rupestrian Savannah in south-eastern Brazil and to examine the similarity with other rupestrian cerrado vegetations and with cerrado sensu stricto on profound soils. For this, phytosociological parameters, evenness and diversity were calculated and compared with other studies. The survey exhibited 72 species, 45 genera, 30 families and high floristic similarity with cerrado on profound soils. There were no indicator species of the Rupestrian Savannah, but there were typical species of rocky environments. The basal area was significantly larger in the profound soil cerrado in relationship to the Rupestrian Savannah and evenness was lower in the Rupestrian Savannah of this study compared to others. These variables reflect the lower exploration capacity of the root of rocky environments. The highest similarity between the Rupestrian Savannah and cerrado on profound soils refers to the canga ferruginous nature, which represents the limit of the tableland of cerrado on the edge of the plateaus, allowing greater sharing of flora.
["Brazilian flora"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Alimentação de Auchenipterichthys punctatus (Siluriformes, Auchenipteridae) em lagos do rio Cuiuni, Amazonas, Brasil
Auchenipterichthys punctatus é uma espécie de peixe muito abundante durante o período de águas baixas no rio Cuiuni, sendo objetivo deste estudo investigar a alimentação de A. punctatus em lagos desse rio. O conteúdo estomacal, o grau de repleção, índice alimentar (IAi), itens preferenciais e amplitude de nicho trófico (BA) de 130 indivíduos foram analisados. Os resultados demonstram que 26,9% dos indivíduos apresentam estômagos com grau de enchimento baixo, 23,0% moderado, 13,0% semicheio e 10,7% completamente cheio. Foi possível identificar três categorias de conteúdo quanto à origem: animal, vegetal e material não identificado. Os itens de maior consumo e diversidade estão dentro da categoria animal, representados por diferentes ordens de insetos de origem autóctone e alóctone. De acordo com os dados da dieta, a composição alimentar de A. punctatus durante o período da seca nos lagos do rio Cuiuni evidencia o hábito carnívoro com tendência à insetivoria. Os valores de amplitude de nicho trófico foram considerados baixos em todos os lagos. A atividade alimentar evidenciou que durante o período da seca houve restrição devido ao alto consumo de um único item. Ressaltamos a necessidade de mais estudos sobre a espécie, além de outros auchenipterídeos, envolvendo a ecologia trófica durante todas as fases do pulso de inundação em lagos de água preta na Amazônia para completar as lacunas existentes sobre sua ecologia.
["dieta"]

Food habits and endozoochorous seed dispersal by small rodents (Cricetidae and Echimyidae) in a riparian forest in southeastern Brazil
We analyzed the feeding habits and the endozoochoric seed dispersal of six species of Neotropical small rodents in a riparian forest in the Cerrado biome at the central portion of Espinhaço Mountain Range, Brazil. The species presented a miscellaneous diet consuming arthropod, especially Hymenoptera (ants) and Isoptera (termites), fruits of pioneer species and vegetative parts of plants (stems and leaves). The high frequency of arthropods in the diet of all species studied reinforces its importance as a food resource for small Neotropical rodents, especially in environments with a marked seasonality, such as in the Cerrado. The number of intact seeds after gut passage and the higher germinability of the ingested seeds, compared to the control group, indicates that the studied rodents acted mainly as dispersers and not as predators of small seeds (≤ 1 mm) of pioneer species (Melastomataceae and Rubiaceae).
["Cerrado"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Records of melanistic Tamandua tetradactyla (Pilosa, Myrmecophagidae) from Ecuador
In Ecuador, the presence of melanistic individuals of Southern Tamandua Tamandua tetradactyla Linnaeus (1758) has been recognized but there has not been a formal report written about it. Neither has there been one on the observations or the collected specimens in museums. We present six records of melanism in Tamandua tetradactyla from southern Ecuador and discuss other records in wildlife and from museum collections. Half of the records are recent photographic ones (2018), and the other three are museum specimens collected between 2009 and 2016. Our report of melanistic individuals suggests that dark coloration varieties are frequent mutations in the region. This report can be useful to promote conservation initiatives, based on the Southern Tamandua as a potential flagship-species.
["Cerro Plateado Biological Reserve"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Marine animal studies overview", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

An inconvenient routine: introduction, establishment and spread of new non-native fishes in the Paraíba do Sul River basin, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil
This study updates the introduction of non-native fishes Nannostomus beckfordi, Aphyocharax anisitsi, Knodus moenkhausii, Moenkhausia costae, Ancistrus multispinis and Astronotus ocellatus in the largest ornamental aquaculture center located in Paraíba do Sul River basin, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. There is evidence that all species are established and that some are spreading to a reservoir in the region. Management actions such as awareness campaigns to educate fish farmers and the inspection of fish farms carried out by IBAMA officials are suggested to avoid new introductions and spread.
["Aquaculture"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Sobrevivência e crescimento de espécies nativas do Cerrado após semeadura direta na recuperação de pastagem abandonada
Considerando que estudos sobre a sobrevivência e o crescimento das espécies nativas via semeadura direta nas savanas brasileiras ainda são escassos, este trabalho acrescenta informações para essa técnica com 36 espécies arbóreas nativas do bioma Cerrado com relação a emergência, sobrevivência e crescimento no campo ao longo de três anos. Assim, 11.550 sementes foram semeadas em 2.520 covas, espaçadas 1 × 1 m, em duas áreas de 5.000 m2 cada, em área de pastagem abandonada em solo do tipo Neossolo Regolítico na Fazenda Entre Rios, Distrito Federal, Brasil. Cada cova recebeu de duas a dez sementes de uma espécie, sem qualquer tratamento de quebra de dormência. A taxa de emergência foi avaliada após 120 dias, e a sobrevivência das emergentes após um, dois e três anos. Além disso, seu crescimento em altura foi avaliado após três anos. Das 36 espécies, quatro apresentaram entre 10% e 20% de emergência e quatro (Copaifera langsdorffii, Hymenaea courbaril, Eugenia dysenterica e Stryphnodendron adstringens) acima de 20% e sobrevivência >80%, após um ano. Nesse mesmo período, 24 das espécies testadas apresentaram taxa de sobrevivência >60%. No geral, a taxa média de sobrevivência dos indivíduos nos três anos foi baixa (53%). Devido ao típico crescimento lento em altura observado para os indivíduos das espécies de Cerrado consideradas (média de 10,8 cm em três anos), na recuperação de áreas similares é importante também levar em conta o plantio de outras formas de vida (herbáceas e arbustivas) de espécies nativas, talvez até em densidades mais elevadas, para ocupar mais rapidamente o solo e assim buscar competir com as gramíneas exóticas.
["bioma Cerrado"]
["Soil Management and Crop Yield", "Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Analysis of duet vocalizations in Myiothlypis leucoblephara (Aves, Parulidae)
Bird vocalizations might be used for specific recognition, territorial defense, and reproduction. Bioacoustic studies aim to understand the production, propagation and reception of acoustic signals, and they are an important component of research on animal behavior and evolution. In this study we analyzed the sound structure of duet vocalizations in pairs of Myiothlypis leucoblephara and evaluated whether the vocal variables differ among pairs and if there are differences in temporal characteristics and frequency of duets between pairs in forest edges vs. forest interior. Vocalizations were recorded from 17 bird pairs in three remnants of Atlantic Forest in southern Brazil. Six of the bird pairs were situated at the edge of the forest remnant, and 11 were in the interior of the remnant. The duets of different pairs between forest areas showed descriptive differences in the frequency, number of notes per call, and time between issuance of calls, with the main distinguishing feature being a change in frequency of a few notes in the second part of the musical phrase. The minimum frequency of vocalization was reduced at the private area than in the other two remnants (p <0.05). The duets of birds in the forest edge and forest interior did not significantly differ in minimum or maximum frequency of phrases (p> 0.05), phrase duration (p> 0.05) or number of notes per phrase (p> 0.05). Myiothlypis leucoblephara did not show a specific pattern with respect to issue of phrases in duets, but instead showed five different patterns, which were variable among pairs. There was a sharp decline or alternation in frequency between notes in the second part of the musical phrase for recognition among pairs. Variation in vocalization among M. leucoblephara duets may play a role in pair recognition.
["Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Invasion alert: new record of the exotic Gambusia holbrooki Girard, 1859 in the Puna Austral region, Northwestern of Argentina
We report the first record of Gambusia holbrooki Girard, 1859 at elevations above 1,615 m in the Puna Austral, Provincia Catamarca, Argentina. This fish was introduced by intentional release. The Puna is characterized by an endorheic system, where the exotic species would cause a negative impact on the aquatic fauna by predation of eggs and larvae of native fish. Unfortunately, Argentinian conservation policies are directed to protect exotic fish before endemic ichthyofauna.

Effects of weed management on soil mites in coffee plantations in a Neotropical environment
Environmental disturbance, as a result of land use change and/or different agricultural practices, may have negative impacts on the richness and abundance of edaphic mites. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different weed management methods in coffee plantations on edaphic mites, and to compare these results with mite communities of native forest habitats in southeastern Brazil. Soil samples were taken between the rows of a coffee plantation under different weed management methods, such as without weeding, manual weeding, agricultural grid, contact herbicide (glyphosate), residual herbicide (oxyfluorfen), mechanical tiller, and mechanical mower, and in a native forest area. Weed management affected edaphic mite communities, with the residual herbicide treatment having the greatest impact on species composition, abundance, richness and diversity. The use of manual weeding and the maintenance of unweeded areas were the practices that preserved mite communities closest to those found in native forest habitats. Thus, such practices are recommended as best practices in coffee plantations. Among the studied mites, the groups Oribatida and Mesostigmata were found in all sites, presenting the greatest abundance and richness, and were sensitive to different forms of weed control. On this basis, we suggest these groups as indicators of soil quality in coffee plantations.
["Coffea arabica"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Pesticide and Herbicide Environmental Studies"]

First record of the Mozambique tilapia, Oreochromis mossambicus Peters, 1852 (Perciformes, Cichlidae), on Kangean Island, Indonesia
In 2019 we captured specimens of Oreochromis mossambicus Peters, 1852 from Batu Batu River, an estuary river on Kangean Island (Indonesia), a conservation area in the Java Sea. These records are among the first of this species from an island in the Java Sea. A description of morphological characters of sampled specimens is provided.
["Cichlid"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Importancia para la conservación de las aves de un relicto de bosque en la región fitogeográfica del Espinal, Argentina
La región fitogeográfica del Espinal en Argentina está críticamente amenazada, ya que gran parte de su territorio históricamente cubierto por bosque fue convertido a cultivos. Con el fin de evidenciar el valor de conservación de bosques relictuales en la región, realizamos un inventario de las especies de aves presentes en uno de los relictos de Espinal más grandes del centro de la provincia de Córdoba, evaluando si cumple con las condiciones para formar parte de la red de Áreas de Importancia para la Conservación de las Aves (AICAs). Registramos 116 especies, pertenecientes a 32 familias, lo cual representa aproximadamente un cuarto del total de especies citadas para la provincia. La ocurrencia de una “especie amenazada a nivel mundial” (Rhea americana), dos “especies de distribución restringida a nivel nacional” (Poospiza ornata y Xolmis rubetra), y 18 especies “específicas de un bioma” hace que este relicto de Espinal cumpla al menos con tres de los criterios para considerar un área como AICA. Este trabajo resalta el gran valor del sitio estudiado para la conservación de las aves, constituyendo un reservorio regional de diversidad. En base a estos resultados y a la crítica situación de conservación que enfrenta el Espinal, consideramos que es imprescindible revalorizar el área como un AICA.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Malformation in three anuran species from a preserved remnant of Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil
Records of malformation in amphibians have significantly increased on a global scale. The main causes of malformations are linked to environmental contaminants, and records in preserved environments are uncommon. We reported malformations in three anuran species belonging to three families: Crossodactylus timbuhy (Hylodidae), Proceratophrys schirchi (Odontophrynidae) and Thoropa miliaris (Cycloramphidae). All records were found within the Reserva Biológica Augusto Ruschi, a well-preserved protected remnant of Atlantic rainforest located in the mountains of the state of Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil. The malformations detected were hemimelia (long bone shortened) with ectrodactyly (digit absent) and brachydactyly (digit shortened) in C. timbuhy, microphtalmia (small eye) in P. schirchi and ectrodactyly in T. miliaris. Further studies are recommended to enable a better understanding about the incidence and causes of malformations within preserved areas.
["amphibian"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Diversity and space-time dynamics of fish assemblages in a coastal lagoon, western Atlantic
The knowledge of the temporal and spatial dynamics in the composition of fish fauna makes it possible to identify patterns of occupation of ecosystems, providing a basis for evaluation and preservation of the local biodiversity. Monthly samplings were carried out at seven sites in a coastal lagoon, using a casting net, dip net and beach seine. A total of 4,110 individuals were collected, distributed in 23 families and 49 taxa of fish, with a predominance of Mugil liza, M. curema, Atherinella brasiliensis, Micropogonias furnieri and Eucinostomus argenteus, corresponding to more than 80% total weight of all individuals caught. Regarding seasonality, greater abundances were recorded in fall, influenced by the high abundance of A. brasiliensis in this period. In addition to fall, this species was also abundant in summer. However, this pattern of dominance was different for the families Mugilidae and Gerreidae, with higher abundances in spring and summer, respectively. The highest abundances were found in the southern section of the lagoon, which are related to the high abundance of A. brasiliensis, M. liza and M. curema. In relation to the indices of average taxonomic distinctness and variation in the taxonomic distinctness, no significant differences were detected between the seasons of the year. Thus, the patterns of distribution and occurrence of fish in the lagoon were consistent with the patterns observed in Brazilian coastal lagoons and estuaries, as well as to the coastal shallow areas of the southeastern and southern regions.
["coastal area"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Mammals of medium and large size in Cerrado remnants in southeastern Brazil
The Cerrado is the second largest biome in Brazil and considered a global biodiversity hotspot due to its high species richness, elevated amount of endemisms, and several anthropogenic threats. The Cerrado has more than 250 species of mammals, and about 15% are endemic. However, fragmentation and the consequent loss of native habitat threaten the maintenance of mammalian populations. In this context we carried out an inventory of medium- and large-sized mammals in Cerrado remnants in Matutina, Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. Sampling was performed in four remnants of Cerrado and adjacent agricultural matrices for 18 days and 16 nights in March and July 2015 with camera traps, diurnal and nocturnal censuses, and by searching for tracks and other indirect evidence. We recorded 19 species of mammals, including top predators and species vulnerable to extinction. The original vegetation cover in the study area has become severely reduced and fragmented due to agricultural expansion. However, the remnants still retain considerable diversity of medium- and large-sized mammals, making them important for the maintenance of biological diversity.
["agricultural mosaic"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Species, sampling method and location affect eel eDNA detection in a turbid lowland lake
Metabarcoding and Metagenomics
Biodiversity is declining in freshwater ecosystems, increasing the need for efficient monitoring tools. Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a powerful approach for detecting aquatic species, but sampling methodology can influence detection outcomes. This study evaluated eDNA sampling methods for detecting shortfin eel (Anguilla australis) and longfin eel (Anguilla dieffenbachii) in a turbid lowland lake in Aotearoa New Zealand. The sampling methods compared included active pump filtration, passive samplers, tow nets and sediment sampling. The spatial distribution of eDNA was assessed, and occupancy modelling was used to optimise sampling strategies. Active pump filtration of 3 L water samples produced the most consistent detections of eel eDNA. Passive samplers deployed for 13 h yielded the highest eel eDNA concentrations, although they exhibited high inter-replicate variability. Sediment samples and short-duration passive samplers performed poorly, and collection issues with tow-net sampling led to its exclusion from further analysis. Eel eDNA concentrations were higher nearshore, particularly near the lake’s outflow, potentially reflecting eel activity. Detection rates were higher for A. australis than for A. dieffenbachii, likely due to species-specific differences in abundance, distribution and eDNA dynamics. Occupancy models showed detection probability was driven by sampling method for A. australis and by both sampling method and location for A. dieffenbachii. Pump filtration and long-duration passive sampling provided the highest detection probabilities, with three replicates per site sufficient for reliable detection, although only nearshore for A. dieffenbachii. These findings highlight the importance of sampling method and location when designing eDNA surveys for fish in lakes, with broader relevance across eDNA applications, including single-species detection and metabarcoding.
["Droplet digital PCR"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Reproductive biology and impacts on aquatic species"]

Soil microbial community composition in two distinct preserved habitats
Metabarcoding and Metagenomics
This study investigates the taxonomic composition, richness and diversity of microbial and metazoan communities in two adjacent ecosystems — a preserved Native Forest and a Highland Grassland — within a well-conserved area of the Atlantic Forest located in the southernmost state of Brazil. Topsoil was analysed using high-throughput sequencing and metabarcoding to assess bacterial, archaeal and eukaryotic communities, divided into microeukaryotes and metazoans, therefore representing four groups of organisms. Bacterial communities were largely composed of Pseudomonadota, Acidobacteriota and Actinomycetota, while archaeal communities were dominated by Thermoproteota. Unicellular eukaryotes showed habitat-specific dominance patterns, with Cercozoa prevailing in Native Forest and Apicomplexa in Highland Grassland; metazoans were represented mainly by Annelida and Nematoda. Alpha diversity analysis revealed differences in richness and in two diversity indices (Shannon and Simpson), which were significantly higher in the Native Forest, with the ordination analyses showing clear spatial structure. Zeta diversity analyses revealed taxon-specific turnover dynamics and indicated that drivers of community structure varied across organism categories. Co-occurrence networks amongst eukaryotes showed well-structured associations within habitats. These results underscore the ecological complexity of even closely-situated habitats and emphasise the importance of long-term conservation of these environments. They also highlight the value of multi-site biodiversity frameworks, such as zeta diversity in capturing fine-scale community differentiation across ecosystems.
["Bacteria"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Comparative analysis of eDNA metabarcoding and eDNA metagenomics for fish biodiversity estimates using standard and novel filtration methods
Metabarcoding and Metagenomics
Molecular techniques involving environmental DNA (eDNA) are increasingly used for aquatic species detection. Metabarcoding, a widely adopted technique, suffers from primer bias: uneven amplification of species due to primer mismatches. Primer bias can be eliminated by sequencing all eDNA in a sample directly. This method, known as (PCR-free) metagenomics, offers potential benefits for relative abundance estimates, but is seldom applied to fish communities and eDNA. This study used an expanded two-by-two design to compare fish species detection between multi-marker Oxford Nanopore Technologies’ (ONT) metabarcoding and ONT metagenomics (native sequencing) using two filter types (conventional versus coarse). Moreover, we explored methylation patterns obtained from ONT metagenomics. Environmental DNA was collected in a controlled setup and two field settings, one representing a capture-release scenario. All species present in the controlled environment were detected by both metabarcoding and metagenomics. In field settings, metagenomics detected more species than metabarcoding. Coarse filters recovered more species across all sequencing datasets, except in metabarcoding of field settings. Relative read counts between metabarcoding and metagenomics illustrated that primer bias was present in the used primer sets. Most fish metagenomic sequences were identified as European sturgeon (Acipenser sturio) across all eDNA samples. We observed three base modifications on the 18S region of A. sturio, where three nucleotide positions showed different methylation patterns between eDNA samples. Our results demonstrate that metabarcoding and metagenomics function complementarily in biodiversity estimates with metagenomics providing additional insights into base modifications. Furthermore, coarse filters offer strong potential for improved species detection in various environments.
["Epigenetic patterns"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Profiling the eukaryotic diversity over a year in a lake ecosystem through short- and long-read metabarcoding
Microbial eukaryotes play a vital role in biogeochemical cycles and aquatic food webs. Over past decades, their taxonomic diversity has been investigated using short-read DNA metabarcoding, which, while effective, is hampered by the limited resolution of the targeted regions. In this study, we utilised both short-read (Illumina) and long-read (PacBio) metabarcoding approaches to analyse eukaryotic diversity in a lake ecosystem over one year, allowing for a direct comparison of the results obtained from each method. Our metabarcoding analysis revealed a high degree of congruence between long-read and short-read data at broad taxonomic levels. However, at finer taxonomic scales, such as the genus level, long-read sequencing achieved higher resolution, enabling more precise identification of microbial eukaryotes. This enhanced taxonomic resolution proved especially valuable for tracking seasonal dynamics within key groups, including ciliates and chytrid fungi. The resolution offered by long-read sequencing provides a more detailed picture of the microbial eukaryotic community, thereby facilitating the exploration of ecological interactions at a finer scale. For example, this approach allowed us to monitor the dynamics of the chytrid genus Zygorhizidium in relation to various diatom genera, which are primary targets for chytrid parasitism.
["Long-read sequencing"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

An efficient iDNA method for surveying rainforest mammals with carrion flies
Metabarcoding of vertebrate DNA derived from invertebrates (iDNA) is a promising method for monitoring of mammal assemblages. However, optimization of field and laboratory methods for efficient and economical sampling and analysis is needed. We used metabarcoding of carrion flies to survey for mammals at Los Amigos Biological Station in the Peruvian Amazon. We used an extraction-free, direct PCR approach to metabarcode vertebrate DNA, whereby buffer from tubes that contained flies for 3-5 hours was used directly in PCR, negating the need for labor-intensive DNA extraction. We also examined two different pooling methods to investigate the efficacy of pooling multiple fly samples to economize sequencing of large numbers of samples. Metabarcoding detected 27 mammalian taxa from 9 orders and 18 families plus four anuran taxa from three families from 240 carrion flies collected over 3 days. Pooling of buffer from multiple flies prior to PCR resulted in failure to detect many species compared to sequencing of individual flies. However, pooling of PCR product after an initial PCR from individual flies, but prior to indexing, resulted in species detection nearly identical to sequencing of individual flies. These methodological findings will contribute to the feasibility of iDNA metabarcoding for vertebrate monitoring and biodiversity conservation.
["Amazon basin"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research"]

Community DNA outperforms eDNA metabarcoding for biodiversity assessments in the Clarion–Clipperton Fracture Zone
Metabarcoding offers a powerful approach for assessing benthic biodiversity in remote and understudied deep-sea environments. However, the methodological performance of different DNA extraction strategies remains insufficiently evaluated, especially for benthic meiofaunal communities. In this study, we compared two extraction strategies—community DNA (ComDNA) from isolated benthic metazoans and sedimentary environmental DNA (SedDNA) from whole sediment—to assess benthic metazoan diversity in the Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone (CCZ), an area targeted for future polymetallic nodule mining. Using the 18S V1–V2 rRNA marker, we analyzed alpha and beta diversity, taxonomic composition, and the number of metazoan operational taxonomic units (OTUs) recovered by each strategy. ComDNA extractions yielded substantially higher benthic metazoan OTU richness (2,145 OTUs) than SedDNA (392 OTUs), with only 1.2% of OTUs shared between them. Community composition also differed significantly, driven by strategy-specific detection biases. To evaluate the effectiveness of SedDNA for biodiversity monitoring, we modeled the sediment volume required to recover OTU richness comparable to ComDNA samples. Depending on sequencing depth and statistical approach, we estimated that the processing of 27–82 mL of sediment is necessary to match ComDNA-derived richness. Our findings underscore the superior taxonomic resolution of ComDNA extractions but also highlight the potential of optimized SedDNA protocols for scalable biodiversity monitoring. We recommend sediment homogenization, increased sample volume, and a higher sequencing depth of at least 100,000 reads per sample for improving SedDNA-based assessments, particularly in heterogeneous deep-sea environments. These results provide critical methodological guidance for the development of standardized, efficient monitoring strategies in the context of deep-sea mining impact assessments.
["Benthic metazoan"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Filter pore size influences taxonomic composition of retained eDNA from seawater samples—evidence from shotgun sequencing
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is increasingly used in aquatic research and applied biodiversity monitoring, mainly through a metabarcoding approach. This allows detailed analyses of specific taxa of interest but involves amplification by PCR, which can lead to significant taxonomic bias. On the other hand, broad tree-of-life approaches such as shotgun sequencing are easily dominated by prokaryotic DNA, failing to detect less abundant taxa such as metazoans. However, the proportion of eukaryotic DNA could potentially be increased through water filtration with larger pore sizes. In this study, we investigate how filter pore size influences the taxonomic composition of retained aquatic eDNA. We conducted high-throughput shotgun sequencing and 18S rDNA metabarcoding on 15 seawater eDNA samples collected at the same locality but filtered with different pore sizes spanning from 0.2 to 8.0 µm. We could assign only 0.78% of the total shotgun reads to the superkingdom level, but smaller pore sizes (0.2 and 1.2 μm) yielded significantly higher proportions of bacterial reads compared to eukaryotic reads (63 vs. 28%), while larger pore sizes (5.0 and 8.0 μm) yielded significantly higher proportions of eukaryotic reads compared to bacterial reads (49 vs. 31%). Of the 19 metazoan phyla detected with shotgun sequencing, all but one were more abundant in larger pore sizes. Most of the eukaryotic phyla detected (39 of 54) were shared between shotgun and metabarcoding analyses, indicating similar performance of the methods regarding presence/absence estimation at high taxonomic levels. Finally, we compared the reliability of genus-level detections between the two methods for selected groups of metazoans to evaluate the potential of shotgun sequencing for biomonitoring. Our study suggests that the prokaryotic dominance in shotgun sequencing data from aquatic eDNA can be reduced by increasing filter pore size. As reference databases expand, the taxonomic coverage and resolution of shotgun sequencing should improve, likely enhancing the potential of shotgun sequencing for future eDNA research.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Barley Rhizosphere Bacteriome Dynamics under Organic and Mineral Inputs: The importance of intercropping predecessor
Integrating intercropping with green manure within crop rotation offers a sustainable pathway to enhance soil microbial diversity and overall agroecosystem health. This study evaluated the effects of diverse fertilisation practices on the soil microbiome in a barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cropping system following the incorporation of an oat-vetch (Avena sativa and Vicia sativa) and green manure incorporation versus single cropping of oats. The field experiment took place at the Agricultural University of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Using high-throughput metagenomic sequencing, we assessed the structure and functions of the soil microbial community. The fertilisation treatments included mineral fertiliser, vermicompost, a combination of vermicompost and mineral fertiliser, and biochar, along with a non-fertilised control. The investigation compared two preceding cropping systems before barley cultivation: an oat-vetch intercrop used as green manure, incorporated into the soil at the ripening stage, and a conventional approach where barley was sown directly without prior green manuring. All treatments were conducted in triplicate. Sequencing allows for detailed taxonomic and functional profiling. The most abundant bacterial phyla identified were Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidota, with Actinobacteriota showing increased abundance under fertilised conditions. Soils treated with compost and compost-mineral mixtures exhibited notably higher alpha diversity. Beta diversity analyses (PCA, PCoA, UPGMA) revealed clear differences in microbial community structure among the treatments. Certain genera, such as Sphingomonas, Noviherspirillum, and Agromyces, were particularly enriched in soils receiving vermicompost or green manure. Their presence suggests enhanced microbial functionality and nutrient cycling in those plots. Overall, the combination of green manure and organic inputs supported more diverse and functionally active microbial communities, contributing to the resilience and sustainability of barley-based cropping systems. This study focuses on the bacterial component of the soil microbiome; nutrient cycling and soil health are governed by the combined interactions among bacteria, fungi, and protozoa.
["Barley"]
["Agronomic Practices and Intercropping Systems", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

Metabarcoding outperforms traditional electrofishing in decapod and fish inventories, paving the way for enhanced biodiversity monitoring in the Caribbean
Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding revolutionized the biodiversity monitoring in aquatic ecosystems, giving access to taxonomic lists in a non-disruptive way. Although the method has limits, such as reduced taxonomic resolution for certain groups and difficulties in estimating species abundance, it has proven its effectiveness in many contexts. In Martinique, a Caribbean island, traditional methods like electrofishing (TEF) are known to be stressful for organisms, non-selective and disruptive for the ecosystem, and have been progressively abandoned for routine monitoring. The aim of this project was to explore the possibility of using the eDNA-based metabarcoding method for the detection of fish and decapods in Martinique streams, by first validating it with TEF. We selected 14 stations, a representative panel of the river diversity, and performed TEF and eDNA-based monitoring to compare both, based on the species richness. Then, from eDNA taxonomic inventories, we assessed the ecological state of the studied stations, using Simpson index and investigated how stations abiotic characteristics shape assemblages. Here, we confirmed the eDNA metabarcoding method is a reliable tool for monitoring fish and decapods, confirming most of the taxa caught by TEF and revealing the presence of additional (native and/or invasive) species. We faced some issues in discriminating some genetically close species (e.g. Sicydium sp.) potentially leading to under-representation in community assemblages, but not in functional diversity. Additional efforts are needed to raise standardized protocols, but we encourage stakeholders to join such an initiative to shed light on the rich biodiversity in sometimes poorly studied regions and to face invasions.
["biodiversity hotspot"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The design and testing of taxon-specific mini-barcode markers for metabarcoding of marine zooplankton
DNA metabarcoding of zooplankton samples is well suited to surveys of marine pelagic ecosystems; however, consistent amplification across zooplankton groups cannot be assumed when using “universal” miniCOI primers. Under-representation of some groups may result from primer bias or inadequate coverage in barcode reference libraries. We designed taxon-specific mini-barcode primers to improve the representation of copepods, euphausiids, chaetognaths, and hydrozoans in metabarcoding outputs of mixed zooplankton samples from the Southwest (SW) Indian Ocean. In silico analyses of downloaded sequences per group identified the most informative mini-barcode region, and barcode gap analyses confirmed that the selected regions could distinguish among species within each group. In vitro analyses of DNA extracts from individual specimens per group showed that the new mini-barcode primers outperformed the standard and universal miniCOI primers by consistently recovering higher Phred quality scores. Metabarcoding of four in situ mixed zooplankton samples collected with plankton tow nets and processed with a combination of taxon-specific and universal primers identified 220 species. Use of the primer cocktails increased the proportionate representation of the target groups by three- to five-fold compared to a previous study. Read counts were dominated by copepods and euphausiids, implying that they had the highest relative biomass in samples. We conclude that a combination of universal and taxon-specific primers in metabarcoding assays will achieve a more comprehensive assessment of biodiversity by enhancing species richness estimates across different groups.
["Biodiversity surveys"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Surface swabs outperform most traditional honeybee (Apis mellifera) hive samples for recovery of eDNA and eRNA
Genetic sampling from European honeybee (Apis mellifera) hives is a promising repository of terrestrial environmental nucleic acids (eNA) from a range of taxonomic sources. eNA samples from honeybee hives can be used to monitor environments via vegetation assessments and plant pathogen detection, while simultaneously assessing honeybee hive health through the identification of honeybee pests and pathogens. However, there is still limited comparison across the different types of hive samples commonly used for biomonitoring. There is also a need for less invasive sampling methods to facilitate adoption of hive eNA surveillance at scale. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of using non-invasive swabbing of hive entrances with common sample types collected from honeybee hives (honey, pollen, and bees) for eNA detection of various taxa. Using a DNA metabarcoding approach for bacteria (16S), animal (COI), fungi (ITS1), and plant (ITS2) identification, and metatranscriptomic sequencing for virus detection, swabbing was found to provide comparable or better detection of taxa compared with more invasive sampling methods. Swabs were most informative for identifying bacterial and fungal communities, while plant detections were similar between swabs and honey samples. Detection of RNA viral diversity was highest in honey samples, however, swabs also showed good recovery of plant and insect viruses. A minimum of two swab replicates was recommended to increase taxa yield for DNA metabarcoding. Our study suggests that swabbing of hive entrances is a highly effective biomonitoring method for non-invasively collecting hive eNA and delivering comprehensive surveillance for animal, plant and microbial communities in the environment.
["Biosecurity"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant and animal studies"]

Comparison of three strategies for local bioassessments in streams using environmental DNA and RNA metabarcoding of macroinvertebrates
Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding of streams can deliver information on biological communities with minimally invasive efforts and at low costs. However, the captured eDNA may not necessarily originate only from organisms physically present at a local site but also come via drift from sources upstream. Therefore, data on community composition can be inherently different to specimens occurring at a certain site, limiting direct comparisons to site-based assessment data. To increase the local signal, two possible ways were recently proposed: First, targeting eRNA collected from water samples, which degrades faster than eDNA, and second, using eDNA from water, in which organisms from the stream were shortly incubated in a water container. Based on these two options, we here derived and tested three strategies to obtain a more localized signal of biodiversity: 1. eRNA metabarcoding of a direct stream water sample, 2. eDNA and eRNA metabarcoding of water, in which animals collected via kicknet multi-habitat sampling were shortly incubated, and 3. eDNA and eRNA metabarcoding of water, in which natural substrate exposures (NSEs) that were actively colonised by invertebrates in the stream for four weeks were shortly incubated. For comparison, we used eDNA directly isolated from the stream as the more regional signal. As the local point-based sample reference, we used the animal bulk sample that was incubated. While our results support that eRNA collected from the stream (strategy 1) does not improve the local signal, both incubation strategies increased the proportion of species identified by both metabarcoding of eDNA/eRNA and the locally collected bulk sample by about 20%. Interestingly, we detected 20% more species in the NSEs (strategy 3) than in the kicknet samples (strategy 2), highlighting the potential of this less invasive invertebrate sampling approach. In summary, our study demonstrates that incubating collected animals in stream water before filtering the water increases the local community signal and provides an animal-friendly strategy for biomonitoring.
["eDNA"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Gradient patterns in the Tatra Mountain lakes revisited with invertebrate DNA metabarcoding
Monitoring changes in freshwater fauna requires timely, efficient, and comprehensive data collection, needs that are increasingly met by molecular methods. This is especially important in remote regions along environmental gradients, such as the Tatra Mountain lakes in Slovakia. In this study, DNA metabarcoding was applied to littoral benthic invertebrates collected from lakes in three valleys, spanning a gradient from the subalpine to alpine zones. Ordination analyses grouped the lakes based on community composition, and these groups were evaluated in relation to altitude, physico-chemical properties, indicator species, and previous data. To assess their additional value, surface sediment samples from the littoral zone were also analyzed using metabarcoding. The results revealed two distinct lake groups, primarily differentiated by altitude, alkalinity, and other correlated environmental parameters. The placement of specific lakes within these groups corresponded with known patterns of recovery from acidification, catchment characteristics, and potentially climate change or lake connectivity. Metabarcoding-based indicator species analysis successfully identified even taxa that had been previously overlooked or misidentified in morphology-based studies. While sediment metabarcoding provided limited supplementary information, its ordination patterns aligned with those from invertebrate analyses. Overall, our study of an alpine lake system supports broader trends: species richness declines with increasing elevation; community composition reflects environmental gradients; and DNA metabarcoding offers high taxonomic resolution and valuable insights into freshwater invertebrate biodiversity.
["Alpine indicators"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Microalgae diversity in Aedes aegypti larvae guts and breeding sites in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand revealed by light microscopy and metabarcoding
Aedes aegypti poses a significant threat by transmitting diseases like dengue, chikungunya and Zika, leading to high morbidity and mortality worldwide. In recent years, the role of microalgae in mosquito larvicidal activity has gained attention due to their role as a key mosquito nutritional resource. Understanding microalgal communities in water from breeding sites and Ae. aegypti larval guts might be beneficial for implementing mosquito control strategies. The purpose of this work was to investigate the diversity of microalgae in the guts and breeding sites of Ae. aegypti larvae in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, using light microscopy and metabarcoding. Results showed a total of 27 algal genera from this study. Ten genera were identified using light microscopy and an additional 21 genera were identified through 23S metabarcoding. Four genera, Tetradesmus, Nannochloropsis, Monoraphidium and Leptolyngbya, were detected by both approaches. Two genera, Tetradesmus and Leptolyngbya, were present in all guts and water samples. Spearman’s correlation analysis, alpha diversity and beta diversity demonstrated a high degree of compositional similarity between gut samples and water samples collected from breeding sites. The results indicated that Ae. aegypti larvae could consume nearly all the microalgae in their breeding habitat. Information provided in this study would help choose microalgae that could potentially be a biocontrol agent for further development of eco-friendly products for the future management of mosquito larvae.
["Aedes aegypti"]
["Algal biology and biofuel production", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Influence of homogenization methods on lichen species detection from environmental DNA metabarcoding
Environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques are increasingly employed in biodiversity monitoring of aquatic and terrestrial animals, plants, and fungi, holding great potential to revolutionize biodiversity assessments. However, sampling and basic laboratory protocols still require refinement to optimize eDNA metabarcoding performance. Homogenization as a pre-treatment for eDNA extraction is known to enhance the concentration and quality of extracted eDNA for some groups of organisms. We previously developed a simple and efficient method for capturing arboreal biodiversity using stemflow as a source of eDNA; however, its performance with or without homogenization had not yet been compared. In this study, we evaluated the performance of two different homogenization methods using eDNA metabarcoding and qPCR assays. Metabarcoding analyses revealed that the method without homogenization detected the fewest species, while nearly identical and higher numbers of species were detected in samples subjected to bead-beating and frozen bead-beating homogenization. Similarly, qPCR analyses revealed that the method without homogenization yielded the lowest DNA concentration, while nearly identical and higher DNA yields were observed for bead-beating and frozen bead-beating homogenization. These findings suggest that, considering cost and effort, the bead-beating method without freezing is the most advantageous.
["eDNA"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Proficiency testing and cross-laboratory method comparison to support standardisation of diatom DNA metabarcoding for freshwater biomonitoring
DNA metabarcoding of benthic diatoms has been successfully applied for biomonitoring at the national scale and can now be considered technically ready for routine application. However, protocols and methods still vary between and within countries, limiting their transferability and the comparability of results. In order to overcome this, routine use of DNA metabarcoding for diatom biomonitoring requires knowledge of the sources of variability introduced by the different steps of the procedure. Here, we examine how elements of routine procedures contribute to variability between European laboratories. A set of four experiments were performed focusing on DNA extraction and PCR amplification steps to evaluate their reproducibility between different laboratories and the variability introduced by different protocols currently applied by the scientific community. Under the guidance of a reference laboratory, 17 participants from 14 countries performed DNA extraction and PCR amplification in parallel, using the same fixed protocol and their own choice of protocol. Experiments were performed by each participant on a set of standardised DNA and biofilm samples (river, lake and mock community) to investigate potential systematic and random errors. Our results revealed the successful transferability of a protocol amongst labs and a highly similar and consistent ecological assessment outcome obtained regardless of the protocols used by each participant. We propose an “all for one but prove them all” strategy, suggesting that distinct protocols can be used within the scientific community, as long as their consistency is be proven by following minimum standard requirements.
["Cross-laboratory experiment"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Application of a dual-locus metabarcoding approach for a more comprehensive account of cattle dietary items in a semi-arid African savanna with special reference to forbs
Increasing livestock densities and more severe drought events challenge sustainable management in South Africa’s semi-arid savannas. Effective mitigation strategies require accurate assessments of livestock foraging behaviour. By utilising high-throughput sequencing technology, this study evaluated the use of a dual-locus metabarcoding approach (trnL and rbcL) together with study-area-specific reference libraries, to analyse cattle diets in two bioregions of the eastern semi-arid South African savanna. Both markers demonstrated the ability to identify various plant families, but trnL exhibited a higher diversity in terms of family and genus identification at both sampling sites. Forbs, although comprising a diverse component of savanna plant communities, have relatively small above-ground biomass, but can still serve as crucial forage items, especially during dry periods. Our study underscores the significant role of forbs in cattle diets, demonstrating a shift in cattle foraging preferences from grass-based diets to higher inclusions of forbs and woody taxa during the drier season. Although grasses, such as Setaria, were still prevalent, forbs, belonging to the genera Malvastrum, Asparagus, Pollichia and Ipomoea were also important food items for cattle as well as woody taxa belonging to Fabaceae, Combretaceae, Ebenaceae, and Malvaceae with a selection of food items from trees and shrubs from genera Albizia, Combretum, Euclea and Vachellia. Furthermore, our study highlights the value of a dual-locus metabarcoding approach for understanding herbivorous diets. Using trnL and rbcL markers, with study-area-specific reference libraries, improves taxonomic resolution for accurately reconstructing cattle diets in semi-arid savannas. This study may improve biodiversity estimates and inform sustainable rangeland management strategies in semi-arid African savanna ecosystems.
["African savanna"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Autonomous samplers and environmental DNA metabarcoding: sampling day and primer choice have greatest impact on fish detection probabilities
Unprecedented rates of biodiversity loss and ecosystem function necessitate the use of rapid, efficacious, and cost-effective biomonitoring tools. The combination of autonomous samplers and high throughput sequencing (i.e., “metabarcoding”) of environmental DNA (eDNA) samples enables characterization of entire communities at high frequency and can be an important tool for conservation and management, allowing researchers to track fluctuations in biodiversity. We deployed two autonomous samplers at two U.S. Geological Survey streamgage sites in the upper Snake River (Wyoming and Idaho, USA) to collect eDNA samples from July-September 2021 and 2022 to characterize fish diversity. We used a probabilistic approach to evaluate the effects of water temperature, water discharge, filter pore size, water volume filtered, number of samples collected, timing, and primers on the probability of detecting eDNA from fish species known to be present. We detected eDNA from 13/15 species present in these areas of the Snake River. Overall, we did not find evidence that filter pore size, water volume filtered, water discharge, and water temperature affected the probability of detecting fish species’ eDNA. By contrast, primers and sampling day affected fish detection probabilities, indicating that primer choice and sampling day can either over- or under- estimate species diversity. These results indicate that users would ideally consider sampling on non-consecutive days and which primer set will maximize species detections.
["Autonomous samplers"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Impact of a coastal protection measure on sandy-beach meiofauna at Ahrenshoop (Baltic Sea, Germany): results from metabarcoding and morphological approaches are similar
Sand nourishment is a common and often applied coastal protection measure along the beaches of the German Baltic Sea coast. At the tourist beach of Ahrenshoop, large-scale sand nourishments are completed every five years along a 4-km stretch. The nourishment in question was executed between the end of October 2021 and mid-February 2022. Meiofaunal communities at the beach-water interface were monitored at six stations before (September 2021) and for one year after the impact (March and September 2022, March 2023). To assess the effects of sand nourishment on meiofauna communities, two complementary approaches were employed: whole community metabarcoding and morphological determination and counting of the animals. Both methods produced consistent results regarding community response to disturbance and subsequent recovery. During the period from autumn 2021 to spring 2023, drastic changes in the composition of communities were observed. Directly after the impact, the taxa Acari and Annelida nearly disappeared, abundances of Copepoda decreased substantially, and Platyhelminthes increased notably. The fact that the studied beach held a low diversity may have facilitated that metabarcoding and morphological determination followed the same trend. After initial studies comprising both methods, efficient assessments using only metabarcoding may be considered for comparable sites and situations.
["Anthropogenic impact"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

﻿Insights into the ecological impact of trout introduction in an oligotrophic lake using sedimentary environmental DNA
Introduced trout can induce trophic cascades, however, a lack of pre-introduction data limits knowledge on their impact in many lakes. Traditional paleolimnological approaches have been used to study historic species changes, but until recently these have been restricted to taxa with preservable body-parts. To explore the ecosystem effects of Salmo trutta (brown trout) introduction on an oligotrophic lake in Aotearoa-New Zealand, we used a multi-marker sedimentary environmental DNA (sedDNA) approach coupled with pigments to detect changes across multiple trophic levels. DNA was extracted from core depths capturing approximately 100 years before and after the expected arrival of S. trutta, and metabarcoding was undertaken with four primer sets targeting the 12S rRNA (fish), 18S rRNA (eukaryotes) and cytochrome c oxidase (COI; eukaryotes) genes. The earliest detection of S. trutta eDNA was 1906 (1892–1919 CE with 95% high probability density function) suggesting their introduction was shortly before this. Native fish diversity (12S and 18S rRNA) decreased after the detection of S. trutta, albeit the data was patchy. A shift in overall eukaryotic and algal communities (18S rRNA and COI) was observed around 1856 (1841–1871 CE) to 1891 (1877–1904 CE), which aligns with the expected S. trutta introduction. However, taxonomy could not be assigned to many of the 18S rRNA and COI sequences. Pigment concentrations did not change markedly after S. trutta introduction. SedDNA provides a new tool for understanding the impact of disturbances such as the introduction of non-native species; however, there are still several methodological challenges to overcome.
["brown trout"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

﻿Exploring benthic diatom diversity in the West Antarctic Peninsula: insights from a morphological and molecular approach
Polar regions are among the most extreme habitats on Earth. However, diatom biodiversity in those regions is much more extensive and ecologically diverse than previously thought. The objective of this study was to add knowledge to benthic diatom biodiversity in Western Antarctic coastal zones via identification by means of morphology, DNA metabarcoding and cultured isolates. In addition, a taxonomically validated reference library for Antarctic benthic diatoms was established with comprehensive information on habitat, morphology and DNA barcodes (rbcL and 18SV4). Benthic samples from marine, brackish and freshwater habitats were taken at the Antarctic Peninsula. A total of 162 clonal cultures were established, resulting in the identification of 60 taxa. The combination of total morphological richness of 174 taxa, including the clones, with an additional 73 taxa just assigned by metabarcoding resulted in 247 infrageneric taxa. Of those taxa, 33 were retrieved by all three methods and 111 only by morphology. The barcode reference library of Antarctic species with the new references obtained through culturing allowed the assignment of 47 taxa in the metabarcoding analyses, which would have been left unassigned because no matching reference sequences were available before. Non–metric multidimensional scaling analyses of morphological as well as molecular data showed a clear separation of diatom communities according to water and substratum types. Many species, especially marine taxa, still have no record in reference databases. This highlights the need for a more comprehensive reference library to further improve routine diatom metabarcoding. Overall, a combination of morphological and molecular methods, along with culturing, provides complementary information on the biodiversity of benthic diatoms in the region.
["Antarctic Peninsula"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

﻿Metagenomic exploration of endosymbionts and pathogens in the tropical lineage of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.) ticks in Colombia
Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), commonly known as the domestic dog tick, is a globally distributed tick. This species plays a significant role in human and animal health, as well as in economy due to its ability to infest livestock. The use of shotgun metagenomics has proven valuable in identifying tick-borne pathogens and key members of the tick microbiome, including endosymbionts. However, the application of shotgun metagenomics in R. sanguineus s.l. ticks in Latin America remains largely unexplored. Therefore, our objective aimed to explore and further analyze the metagenome of the tropical lineage of R. sanguineus s.l. ticks in Colombia. Through our analysis, we identified the three most prevalent pathogens harbored by these ticks, namely: Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Francisella tularensis, and Theileria equi. However, the most abundant microorganism detected was not a pathogen but the endosymbiont Coxiella mudrowiae. Interestingly, Coxiella mudrowiae exhibited significant negative correlations with several pathogens and other endosymbionts. Furthermore, we successfully constructed 27 medium-quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) for this microorganism, enabling us to conduct a pangenome analysis by comparing them with available genomes and identifying proteins of interest, such as those involved in vitamin B synthesis. This study represents the first implementation of shotgun metagenomics as a methodology to expand our understanding of pathogens and endosymbionts in the circulating tropical lineage of R. sanguineus s.l. ticks in Colombia. The findings of this research serve as a foundation for the development of prevention and mitigation strategies against pathogens transmitted by this tick species. Information gained from this study can contribute to the improvement of public health measures and veterinary practices aimed at controlling the impact of tick-borne diseases.
["Metagenome"]
["Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

﻿Fish diversity assessed by eDNA detection methods in the Rioni River
Due to anthropogenic influences, habitat degradation and a continuous loss of biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems are occurring on a large scale, while these ecosystems constitute invaluable natural resources. Therefore, it is essential to study and monitor freshwater ecosystems to guide conservation efforts. Freshwater ecosystems are one of the less-studied fields in Georgia. Studies about the species distribution of many taxa and/or regions carried out during the last century have not been updated for decades. Here, we report the results of an environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding exercise, based on samples collected from the Rioni River, a tributary to the Black Sea and a crucial aquatic ecosystem regionally and globally. The only comprehensive review of the fish of the Rioni River dates back to 1956. We compared the eDNA-based taxonomic composition to the known faunal composition within the Rioni River and found that the eDNA-based taxonomic coverage approached 75% of the expected total fish fauna. A number of new species occurrences were also found, including the first detection of three invasive alien species (Carassius gibelio, Pseudorasbora parva, Rhinogobius lindbergi) in the Rionis River Basin and a new country record of the ninespine stickleback (genus Pungitius) for Georgia. In spite of the usefulness of the eDNA metabarcoding approach, the sparsity of the fish DNA barcode reference library for the region emerged as a limitation to this study. However, our findings still represent a great leap forward in updating fish status on the Rioni River and testing the effectiveness of the eDNA sampling for aquatic species.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Unravelling bird nest arthropod community structure using metabarcoding
Bird nests are fascinating microcosms harboring a wide range of arthropods parasitizing the nesting birds or feeding on prey remains, feces, and the nest material. Studies of these communities have been entirely based on emergence traps which collect live organisms out of the nests. The analysis of nest contents and environmental DNA (eDNA) via metabarcoding could expand our knowledge and identify prey, exuviae, and other animal remains in bird nests. Here, we investigated the potential of arthropod remains, nest dust, and feathers to better describe arthropod diversity accumulated in 20 bird nests collected in Guelph (Canada). We used subsampling strategies and tested two extraction approaches to investigate the distribution of DNA in nests, account for low-quality DNA, and the presence of inhibitory substances. In total, 103 taxa were detected via metabarcoding. Arthropod remains delivered the highest number of taxa (n = 67), followed by nest dust (n = 29). Extractions with the PowerSoil kit outperformed DNeasy extractions coupled with PowerClean Pro inhibitor removal. Per nest, on average 5.5% taxonomic overlap between arthropod remains of different size classes was detected and subsamples of nest dust extracted with the PowerSoil kit showed 47.3% taxonomic overlap indicating a heterogeneous eDNA distribution in nests. Most detected species were either feeding in the nest, i.e., herbivorous / predatory, or bird food. We also detected molecular traces of 25 bird species, whose feathers were likely used as nest material. Consequently, the metabarcoding of bird nest materials provides a more complete picture of nest communities, which can enable future studies on functional diversity and better comparisons between nesting species.
["Berlese-Tullgren funnel"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Ecological signals of arctic plant-microbe associations are consistent across eDNA and vegetation surveys
Understanding how different taxa respond to abiotic characteristics of the environment is of key interest for understanding the assembly of communities. Yet, whether eDNA data will suffice to accurately capture environmental imprints has been the topic of some debate. In this study, we characterised patterns of species occurrences and co-occurrences in Zackenberg in northeast Greenland using environmental DNA. To explore the potential for extracting ecological signals from eDNA data alone, we compared two approaches (visual vegetation surveys and soil eDNA metabarcoding) to describing plant communities and their responses to abiotic conditions. We then examined plant associations with microbes using a joint species distribution model. We found that most (68%) of plant genera were detectable by both vegetation surveys and eDNA signatures. Species-specific occurrence data revealed how plants, bacteria and fungi responded to their abiotic environment – with plants, bacteria and fungi all responding similarly to soil moisture. Nonetheless, a large proportion of fungi decreased in occurrences with increasing soil temperature. Regarding biotic associations, the nature and proportion of the plant-microbe associations detected were consistent between plant data identified via vegetation surveys and eDNA. Of pairs of plants and microbe genera showing statistically supported associations (while accounting for joint responses to the environment), plants and bacteria mainly showed negative associations, whereas plants and fungi mainly showed positive associations. Ample ecological signals detected by both vegetation surveys and by eDNA-based methods and a general correspondence in biotic associations inferred by both methods, suggested that purely eDNA-based approaches constitute a promising and easily applicable tool for studying plant-soil microbial associations in the Arctic and elsewhere.
["eDNA metabarcoding"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

﻿DNA metabarcoding data from faecal samples of the lesser (Myotis blythii) and the greater (Myotis myotis) mouse-eared bats from Bulgaria
A comprehensive understanding of trophic interactions in terrestrial ecosystems is crucial for ecological research and conservation. Recent advances in non-invasive methods, such as environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding, have enabled researchers to collect vast amounts of data on wild animal diets. However, sharing this data and metadata effectively and transparently presents new challenges. To address this, a new type of scholarly journal publication has emerged that aims to describe datasets rather than report research investigations. In this paper, we present a dataset of consumed prey species and parasites based on the metabarcoding of 113 faecal samples from the greater and lesser mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis and Myotis blythii), along with a detailed description of the data sampling, laboratory analysis, and bioinformatics pipeline. Our dataset comprises 1018 unique Barcode Index Numbers (BINs) from 12 Classes and 43 Orders. In addition, we provide interactive Krona charts to visually summarize the taxonomic relationships and relative read abundance of the consumed prey species and parasites. This data can be used for meta-analysis, exploring new predator-prey and host-parasite interactions, studying inter- and intraspecific ecological interactions, and informing protected area management, among other applications. By sharing this dataset, we hope to encourage other researchers to use it to answer additional ecological questions and advance our understanding of trophic interactions in terrestrial ecosystems.
["Bats (Chiroptera)"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Direct PCR meets high-throughput sequencing – metabarcoding of chironomid communities without DNA extraction
Aquatic emergent insect communities form an important link between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, yet studying them is costly and time-consuming as they are usually diverse and superabundant. Metabarcoding is a valuable tool to investigate arthropod community compositions, however high-throughput applications, such as for biomonitoring, require cost-effective and user-friendly procedures. To investigate if the time-consuming and labour-intensive DNA extraction step can be omitted in metabarcoding, we studied the difference in detection rates and individual read abundance using standard DNA extraction versus direct PCR protocols. Metabarcoding with and without DNA extraction was performed with artificially created communities of known composition as well as on natural communities both of the dipteran family Chironomidae to compare detection rates, individual read abundances and presence-absence community composition. We found that the novel approach of direct PCR metabarcoding presented here did not alter detection rates and had a minor effect on individual read abundances in artificially created communities. Furthermore, presence-absence community compositions of natural chironomid communities were highly comparable using both approaches. In conclusion, we showed that direct PCR protocols can be applied in chironomid metabarcoding approaches, with possible application for a wider range of arthropod taxa, enabling us to study communities more efficiently in the future.
["cytochrome c oxidase I (COI or COX1)"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Pollen metabarcoding of museum specimens and recently collected bumblebees (Bombus) indicates foraging shifts
Landscape changes, over time, lead to changes of floral resources available to pollinators, which in turn may result in the disappearance of ecologically specialized species. Here, we use pollen metabarcoding to infer historic and recent interactions between plants and bumblebees (Bombus). Bumblebees from Cuxhaven (Germany) were sampled from historical museum collections (1968/69) and in the field (2019). Pollen attached to their bodies was barcoded using multiple plant markers (ITS1, ITS2 and trnL-P6 loop). Our results show shifts in foraging habits between the historic and recent sampling periods, mostly determined by fewer Fabaceae interactions in 2019. The successful implementation of scalable molecular techniques for the analysis of historical pollen samples underscores the value of museum collections as a resource for biodiversity research. This study provides proof of concept of a comparative analysis of recent and historical pollination data. However, to ensure the robustness of our results, it is crucial to consider the broader methodology used. Our study found variation in the efficacy of the three plant barcoding markers. The ITS1 marker exhibited the highest species-level identification success, while the trnL-P6 loop demonstrated utility in amplifying degraded DNA across diverse plant families.
["barcoding"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Development of two new sets of PCR primers for eDNA metabarcoding of brittle stars (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea)
Brittle stars (class Ophiuroidea) are marine invertebrates comprising approximately 2,100 extant species, and are considered to constitute the most diverse taxon of the phylum Echinodermata. As a non-invasive method for monitoring biodiversity, we developed two new sets of PCR primers for metabarcoding environmental DNA (eDNA) from brittle stars. The new primer sets were designed to amplify 2 short regions of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene, comprising a conserved region (111–115 bp, 112 bp on average; named “16SOph1”) and a hyper-variable region (180–195 bp, 185 bp on average; named “16SOph2”) displaying interspecific variation. The performance of the primers was tested using eDNA obtained from two sources: a) rearing water of an 2.5 or 170 L aquarium tanks containing 15 brittle star species and b) from natural seawater collected around Misaki, the Pacific coast of central Japan, at depths ranging from shallow (2 m) to deep (> 200 m) sea. To build a reference library, we obtained 16S rRNA sequences of brittle star specimens collected from around Misaki and from similar depths in Japan, and sequences registered in International Nucleotide Sequence Database Collaboration. As a result of comparison of the obtained eDNA sequences with the reference library 37 (including cryptic species) and 26 brittle star species were detected with certain identities by 16SOph1 and 16SOph2 analyses, respectively. In shallow water, the number of species and reads other than the brittle stars detected with 16SOph1 was less than 10% of the total number. On the other hand, the number of brittle star species and reads detected with 16SOph2 was less than half of the total number, and the number of detected non-brittle star metazoan species ranged from 20 to 46 species across 6 to 8 phyla (only the reads at the “Tank” were less than 0.001%). The number of non-brittle star species and reads at 80 m was less than 10% with both of the primer sets. These findings suggest that 16SOph1 is specific to the brittle star and 16SOph2 is suitable for a variety of marine metazoans. It appears, however, that further optimization of primer sequences would still be necessary to avoid possible PCR dropouts from eDNA extracts. Moreover, a detailed elucidation of the brittle star fauna in the examined area, and the accurate identification of brittle star species in the current DNA databank is required.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

﻿Recommendations for the preservation of environmental samples in diatom metabarcoding studies
Implementation of DNA metabarcoding for diatoms for environmental monitoring is now moving from a research to an operational phase, requiring rigorous guidelines and standards. In particular, the first steps of the diatom metabarcoding process, which consist of sampling and storage, have been addressed in various ways in scientific and pilot studies and now need to be rationalised. The objective of this study was to compare three currently applied preservation protocols through different storage durations (ranging from one day to one year) for phytobenthos and phytoplankton samples intended for diatom DNA metabarcoding analysis. The experimental design used samples from four freshwater and two marine sites of diverse ecological characteristics. The impact of the sample preservation and storage duration was assessed through diatom metabarcoding endpoints: DNA quality and quantity, diversity and richness, diatom assemblage composition and ecological index values (for freshwater samples). The yield and quality of extracted DNA only decreased for freshwater phytobenthos samples preserved with ethanol. Diatom diversity was not affected and their taxonomic composition predominantly reflected the site origin. Only rare taxa (< 100 reads) differed among preservation methods and storage durations. For biomonitoring purposes, freshwater ecological index values were not affected by the preservation method and storage duration tested (including ethanol preservation), all treatments returning the same ecological status for a site. This study contributes to consolidating diatom metabarcoding. Thus, accompanied by operational standards, the method will be ready to be confidently deployed and prescribed in future regulatory monitoring.
["biomonitoring"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

﻿Metabarcoding as an effective complement of microscopic studies in revealing the composition of the diatom community – a case study of an oxbow lake of Tisza River (Hungary) with the description of a new Mayamaea species
Diatoms are valuable bioindicators and their traditional classification and identification are mainly based on the morphological characteristics of their frustules. However, in recent years, DNA-based methods have been proposed and are rapidly growing in the scientific literature as a complementary tool to assess the ecological status of freshwaters. Diatom-based ecological status assessment uses indices calculated from sensitivity and tolerance values as well as relative abundance of species. Correct assessment requires an accurate identification of species. In the present study, diatom assemblages of an oxbow lake were investigated using light and scanning electron microscopy as well as metabarcoding using rbcL marker, and the identification results were compared, intending to match barcode sequences of species that are currently missing in the diatom reference database. The investigated oxbow is an important wetland for bird conservation, although it is impacted by land use. Taxon lists based on morphology and metabarcoding considerably differed when bioinformatics analysis involved DADA2 pipeline with Diat.barcode database. Previously unknown sequence variants of four pennate species were found with additional BLAST search. Using phylogeny and p-distance calculations sequences could be matched to three small-celled naviculoid species that were found under a microscope. One of them was found to be a new species of the genus Mayamaea and was described as a new species, Mayamaea ectorii. Additionally, spatial distribution maps for several small-celled naviculoid species are provided for the Hungarian territory.
["Mayamaea"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

﻿The relationship between eDNA density distribution and current fields around an artificial reef in the waters of Tateyama Bay, Japan
Monitoring of artificial reefs (ARs) has been conducted through such methods as visual censuses, surveys using fishing gear, and echo sounder. These methods have disadvantages: visual census is not possible at ARs in deeper waters, fishing gear surveys are invasive to fish individuals, and echo sounders have difficulty in species identification. A new AR monitoring method is required to compensate for these disadvantages. While eDNA has become a valid monitoring tool for marine biodiversities, it is influenced by degradation and transport of the molecules that affect information about the spatio-temporal distribution of fish. An understanding of the relationship between current fields and eDNA distribution, particularly in open waters, is critical when using eDNA as an index for fish aggregation at ARs. We investigated the relationship between eDNA distribution and current fields around an AR for four dominant species (Engraulis japonicus, Parapristipoma trilineatum, Scomber spp and Trachurus japonicus) in Tateyama Bay, Japan. The highest density of fish schools is formed directly above or at the upstream side of ARs. If we assume that the center of eDNA originates at these locations at an AR and eDNA is simply transported by currents, a higher density of eDNA would distribute downstream from the AR. However, our results indicate that eDNA distribution is in accord with actual fish distribution, namely eDNA densities are more abundant in the upstream side of ARs. We thus consider that eDNA distribution is more influenced by actual distribution patterns than by the transport processes.
["ADCP"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

﻿Monitoring harmful microalgal species and their appearance in Tokyo Bay, Japan, using metabarcoding
During the recent decade, high-throughput sequencing (HTS) techniques, in particular, DNA metabarcoding, have facilitated increased detection of biodiversity, including harmful algal bloom (HAB) species. In this study, the presence of HAB species and their appearance patterns were investigated by employing molecular and light microscopy-based monitoring in Tokyo Bay, Japan. The potential co-appearance patterns between the HAB species, as well as with other eukaryotes and prokaryotes were investigated using correlation and association rule-based time-series analysis. In total, 40 unique HAB species were detected, including 12 toxin-producing HAB species previously not reported from the area. More than half of the HAB species were present throughout the sampling season (summer to autumn) and no structuring or succession patterns associated with the environmental conditions could be detected. Statistically significant (p < 0.05, rS ranging from −0.88 to 0.90) associations were found amongst the HAB species and other eukaryotic and prokaryotic species, including genera containing growth-limiting bacteria. However, significant correlations between species differed amongst the years, indicating that variability in environmental conditions between the years may have a stronger influence on the microalgal community structure and interspecies interactions than the variability during the sampling season. The association rule-based time-series analysis allowed the detection of a previously reported negative relationship between Synechococcus sp. and Skeletonema sp. in nature. Overall, the results support the applicability of metabarcoding and HTS-based microalgae monitoring, as it facilitates more precise species identification compared to light microscopy, as well as provides input for investigating potential interactions amongst different species/groups through simultaneous detection of multiple species/genera.
["18S ribosomal RNA gene"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

﻿Are microbes growing on flowers evil? Effects of old flower microbes on fruit set in a wild ginger with one-day flowers, Alpinia japonica (Zingiberaceae)
Flowers are colonized and inhabited by diverse microbes. Flowers have various mechanisms to suppress microbial growth, such as flower volatiles, reactive oxygen and secondary compounds. Besides, plants rapidly replace flowers that have a short lifespan, and old flowers senesce. They may contribute to avoiding adverse effects of the microbes. In this study, we investigate if the flower microbial community on old flowers impedes fruit and seed production in a wild ginger with one-day flowers. We focus on microbes on old flowers because they may be composed of microbes that would grow during flowering if the flowers did not have mechanisms to suppress microbial growth. We inoculated newly opened flowers with old flower microbes, and monitored the effects on fruit and seed set. We also assessed prokaryotic communities on the flowers using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. We found six bacterial amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) whose proportions were increased on the inoculated flowers. These ASVs were also found on flower buds and flowers that were bagged by net or paper during anthesis, suggesting that they had been present in small numbers prior to flowering. Fruit set was negatively associated with the proportions of these ASVs, while seed set was not. The results suggest that old flowers harbor microbial communities different from those at anthesis, and that the microbes abundant on old flowers negatively affect plant reproduction. Although it has received little attention, antagonistic microbes that rapidly proliferate on the flowers may have affected the evolution of various flower characteristics such as flower volatiles and life span.
["anthosphere"]
["Gut microbiota and health", "Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

﻿COI amplicon sequence data of environmental DNA collected from the Bronx River Estuary, New York City
In this data paper, we describe environmental DNA (eDNA) cytochrome c oxidase (COI) amplicon sequence data from New York City’s Bronx River Estuary. As urban systems continue to expand, describing and monitoring their biodiversity is increasingly important for sustainability. Once polluted and overexploited, New York City’s Bronx River Estuary is undergoing revitalization and restoration. To investigate and characterize the area’s diversity, we collected and sequenced river sediment and surface water samples from Hunts Point Riverside and Soundview Parks (ntotal = 48; nsediment = 25; nwater = 23). COI analysis using universal primers mlCOIintF and jgHCO2198 detected 27,328 Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) from 7,653,541 sequences, and rarefaction curves reached asymptotes indicating sufficient sampling depth. Of these, eukaryotes represented 9,841ASVs from 3,562,254 sequences. At the study sites over the sampling period, community composition varied by substrate (river sediment versus surface water) and with water temperature, but not pH. The three most common phyla were Bacillariophyta (diatoms), Annelida (segmented worms), and Ochrophyta (e.g. brown and golden algae). Of the eukaryotic ASVs, we identified 614 (6.2%) to species level, including several dinoflagellates linked to Harmful Algal Blooms such as Heterocapsa spp., as well as the invasive amphipod Grandidierella japonica. The analysis detected common bivalves including blue (Mytilus edulis) and ribbed (Geukensia demissa) mussels, as well as soft-shell clams (Mya arenaria), in addition to Eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica) that are being reintroduced to the area. Fish species undergoing restoration such as river herring (Alosa pseudoharengus, A. aestivalis) failed to be identified, although relatively common fish including Atlantic silversides (Menidia menidia), menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus), striped bass (Morone saxatilis), and mummichogs (Fundulus heteroclitus) were found. The data highlight the utility of eDNA metabarcoding for analyzing urban estuarine biodiversity and provide a baseline for future work in the area.
["eDNA"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

﻿The bacterial hitchhiker’s guide to COI: Universal primer-based COI capture probes fail to exclude bacterial DNA, but 16S capture leaves metazoa behind
Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding from water samples has, in recent years, shown great promise for biodiversity monitoring. However, universal primers targeting the cytochrome oxidase I (COI) marker gene popular in metazoan studies have displayed high levels of nontarget amplification. To date, enrichment methods bypassing amplification have not been able to match the detection levels of conventional metabarcoding. This study evaluated the use of universal metabarcoding primers as capture probes to either isolate target DNA or to remove nontarget DNA, prior to amplification, by using biotinylated versions of universal metazoan and bacterial barcoding primers, namely metazoan COI (mlCOIintF) and bacterial 16S (515F). Additionally, each step of the protocol was assessed by amplifying for both metazoan COI (mlCOIintF/jgHCO2198) and bacterial 16S (515F/806R) to investigate the effect on the metazoan and bacterial communities. Bacterial read abundance increased significantly in response to the captures (COI library), while the quality of the captured DNA was also improved. The metazoan-oriented probe captured bacterial DNA in a range that was also amplifiable with the 16S primers, demonstrating the ability of capture probes to isolate fragments of DNA spanning over a longer distance than perhaps expected, from eDNA. Although the use of the tested COI probe cannot be recommended for metazoan enrichment, based on the experimental results, the concept of capturing these longer fragments could be applied to metazoan metabarcoding. By using a truly conserved site without a high-level taxonomic resolution as a target for capture, it may be possible to isolate DNA fragments large enough to span over a nearby barcoding region (e.g., COI), which can then be processed through a conventional metabarcoding-by-amplification protocol.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Comparative metagenomics of phytoplankton blooms after nutrient enrichment of oligotrophic marine waters
Increasing anthropogenic pressures on the coastal marine environments impact these ecosystems via a variety of mechanisms including nutrient loading, leading to eutrophication and increases in algal blooms. Here, we use a metagenomics approach to assess the taxonomic and functional changes of the microbial community throughout a nutrient enriched mesocosm phytoplankton bloom. We tested four different nutrient treatments consisting of either nitrate and phosphate or nitrate, phosphate and silicate, administered on the first day or continuously for the first two weeks of the experiment. Our results show a shift in the taxonomic composition of the community over time that is dependent on the nutrient addition regime. Significant differences in the functional potential of the communities were detected, with an interaction between bloom period (pre-bloom, bloom and post-bloom) and nutrient treatment (p = 0.004). A sharp drop in functional similarity was observed in the first week in all treatments and after 20 days had not returned to pre-bloom levels. Changes within energy metabolism pathways showed a remarkable enrichment of the dissimilatory nitrate reduction pathway in the post-bloom period. Eukaryotic oxidative phosphorylation and photosynthetic antenna proteins were more abundant during the bloom, especially in the continuous treatment with silicate. Our results suggest that continuous (i.e. chronic) nutrient enrichment has a larger effect on the functioning of marine systems compared to a single (i.e acute) addition. A deep understanding of the functional and taxonomic shifts in the community during blooms is essential to reverse or mitigate human impacts on coastal environments.
["algal blooms"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿18S rDNA amplicon sequence data (V1–V3) of the Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, Central Pacific
To address the global biodiversity crisis, standardized data that are rapidly obtainable through minimally invasive means are needed for documenting change and informing conservation within threatened and diverse systems, such as coral reefs. In this data paper, we describe 18S rRNA gene amplicon data (V1–V3 region) generated from samples collected to begin characterizing coral reef eukaryotic community composition at the Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge in the Central Pacific Ocean. Sixteen samples were obtained across four sample types: sediments from two sieved fractions (100–500 μm, n = 3; 500 μm-2 mm, n = 3) and sessile material scrapings (n = 3) from Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) sampled in 2015, as well as seawater from 2012 (n = 7). After filtering and contaminant removal, 3,861 Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) were produced from 1,062,238 reads. The rarefaction curves demonstrated adequate sampling depth, and communities grouped by sample type. The dominant orders across samples were polychaete worms (Eunicida), demosponges (Poecilosclerida), and bryozoans (Cheilostomatida). The ten most common orders in terms of relative abundance comprised ~60% of all sequences and 23% of ASVs, and included reef-building crustose coralline algae (CCA; Corallinophycidae) and stony corals (Scleractinia), two taxa associated with healthy reefs. Highlighting the need for further study, ~21% of the ASVs were identified as uncultured, incertae sedis, or not assigned to phylum or order. This data paper presents the first 18S rDNA survey at Palmyra Atoll and serves as a baseline for biodiversity assessment, monitoring, and conservation of this remote and pristine ecosystem.
["ARMS"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿Metagenomic insights to the functional potential of sediment microbial communities in freshwater lakes
Molecular-based techniques offer considerable potential to provide new insights into the impact of anthropogenic stressors on lake ecosystems. Microbial communities are involved in many geochemical cycling processes in lakes and a greater understanding of their functions could assist in guiding more targeted remedial actions. Recent advances in metagenomics now make it possible to determine the functional potential of entire microbial communities. The present study investigated microbial communities and their functional potential in surface sediments collected from three lakes with differing trophic states and characteristics. Surface sediments were analysed for their nutrient and elemental contents and metagenomics and metabarcoding analysis undertaken. The nutrients content of the surface sediments did not show as distinct a gradient as water chemistry monitoring data, likely reflecting effects of other lake characteristics, in particular, depth. Metabarcoding and metagenomics revealed differing bacterial community composition and functional potential amongst lakes. Amongst the differentially abundant metabolic pathways, the most prominent were clusters in the energy and xenobiotics pathways. Differences in the energy metabolism paths of photosynthesis and oxidative phosphorylation were observed. These were most likely related to changes in the community composition and especially the presence of cyanobacteria in two of the three lakes. Xenobiotic pathways, such as those involving polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, were highest in the lakes with the greatest agricultural land-use in their catchment. These results highlight how microbial metagenomics can be used to gain insights into the causes of differences in trophic status amongst lakes.
["bacteria"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Annual dynamics of eukaryotic and bacterial communities revealed by 18S and 16S rRNA metabarcoding in the coastal ecosystem of Sagami Bay, Japan
Sagami Bay, Japan is influenced by both the warm Kuroshio Current and the cold Oyashio Current and rich nutrients are supplied from multiple river sources and the deep-sea, forming a dynamic ecosystem. The aim of the present study was to investigate eukaryotic and bacterial communities in the coastal waters of Sagami Bay, using 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA sequencing and to assess the seasonal and vertical dynamics in relation to physicochemical and biological conditions. Eukaryotic and bacterial communities showed synchronous seasonal and vertical changes along with environmental variability. Diversity of plankton community suspended in the surface was lower than those at the subsurface layers in both the eukaryotes and bacteria communities; however, community diversity showed different characteristics in the subsurface where the eukaryotic community at the deeper layer (100 m) was as low as the surface and highest in intermediate depth layers (10–50 m), while that of bacterial community was highest in the deeper layer (100 m). The annual variability of the coastal microbial communities was driven, not only by the seasonal changes of abiotic and biotic factors and short-term rapid changes by river water inflow and phytoplankton blooms, but also largely influenced by deep-seawater upwellings due to the unique seafloor topography.
["bacteria"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

﻿Shifts in DNA yield and biological community composition in stored sediment: implications for paleogenomic studies
Lake sediments hold a wealth of information from past environments that is highly valuable for paleolimnological reconstructions. These studies increasingly apply modern molecular tools targeting sedimentary DNA (sedDNA). However, sediment core sampling can be logistically difficult, making immediate subsampling for sedDNA challenging. Sediment cores are often refrigerated (4 °C) for weeks or months before subsampling. We investigated the impact of storage time on changes in DNA (purified or as cell lysate) concentrations and shifts in biological communities following storage of lake surface sediment at 4 °C for up to 24 weeks. Sediment samples (~ 0.22 g, in triplicate per time point) were spiked with purified DNA (100 or 200 ng) or lysate from a brackish water cyanobacterium that produces the cyanotoxin nodularin or non-spiked. Samples were analysed every 1–4 weeks over a 24-week period. Droplet digital PCR showed no significant decrease in the target gene (nodularin synthetase – subunit F; ndaF) over the 24-week period for samples spiked with purified DNA, while copy number decreased by more than half in cell lysate-spiked samples. There was significant change over time in bacteria and eukaryotic community composition assessed using metabarcoding. Amongst bacteria, the cyanobacterial signal became negligible after 5 weeks while Proteobacteria increased. In the eukaryotic community, Cercozoa became dominant after 6 weeks. These data demonstrate that DNA yields and community composition data shift significantly when sediments are stored chilled for more than 5 weeks. This highlights the need for rapid subsampling and appropriate storage of sediment core samples for paleogenomic studies.
["chilled storage"]

﻿Comparing species detection success between molecular markers in DNA metabarcoding of coastal macroinvertebrates
DNA metabarcoding has great potential to improve marine biomonitoring programs by providing a rapid and accurate assessment of species composition in zoobenthic communities. However, some methodological improvements are still required, especially regarding failed detections, primers efficiency and incompleteness of databases. Here we assessed the efficiency of two different marker loci (COI and 18S) and three primer pairs in marine species detection through DNA metabarcoding of the macrozoobenthic communities colonizing three types of artificial substrates (slate, PVC and granite), sampled between 3 and 15 months of deployment. To accurately compare detection success between markers, we also compared the representativeness of the detected species in public databases and revised the reliability of the taxonomic assignments. Globally, we recorded extensive complementarity in the species detected by each marker, with 69% of the species exclusively detected by either 18S or COI. Individually, each of the three primer pairs recovered, at most, 52% of all species detected on the samples, showing also different abilities to amplify specific taxonomic groups. Most of the detected species have reliable reference sequences in their respective databases (82% for COI and 72% for 18S), meaning that when a species was detected by one marker and not by the other, it was most likely due to faulty amplification, and not by lack of matching sequences in the database. Overall, results showed the impact of marker and primer applied on species detection ability and indicated that, currently, if only a single marker or primer pair is employed in marine zoobenthos metabarcoding, a fair portion of the diversity may be overlooked.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Using DNA metabarcoding to decipher the diet plant component of mammals from the Eastern Mediterranean region
Longevity of species populations depends largely on interactions among animals and plants in an ecosystem. Predation and seed dispersal are among the most important interactions necessary for species conservation and persistence, and diet analysis is a prerequisite tool to evaluate these interactions. Understanding these processes is crucial for identifying conservation targets and for executing efficient reforestation and ecological restoration. In this study, we applied a scat DNA metabarcoding technique using the P6-loop of the trnL (UAA) chloroplastic marker to describe the seasonal plant diet composition of 15 mammal species from a highly biodiverse Lebanese forest in the Eastern Mediterranean. We also recovered plant seeds, when present, from the scats for identification. The mammal species belong to 10 families from 5 different orders. More than 133 plant species from 54 plant families were detected and identified. Species from the Rosaceae, Poaceae, Apiaceae, Fabaceae, Fagaceae and Berberidaceae families were consumed by the majority of the mammals and should be taken into consideration in future reforestation and conservation projects. Our results showed that the DNA metabarcoding approach provides a promising method for tracking the dietary plant components of a wide diversity of mammals, yielding key insights into plant-animal interactions inside Lebanon’s forests.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

18S rRNA amplicon sequence data (V1–V3) of the Bronx river estuary, New York
Characterising and monitoring biological diversity to foster sustainable ecosystems is highly recommended as urban centres rapidly expand. However, much of New York City’s biodiversity remains undescribed, including in the historically degraded, but recovering Bronx River Estuary. In a pilot study to identify organisms and characterise biodiversity patterns there, 18S rRNA gene amplicons (V1–V3 region), obtained from river sediments and surface waters of Hunts Point Riverside and Soundview Parks, were sequenced. Across 48 environmental samples collected over three seasons in 2015 and 2016, following quality control and contaminant removal, 2,763 Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) were identified from 1,918,463 sequences. Rarefaction analysis showed sufficient sampling depth, and community composition varied over time and by substrate at the study sites over the sampling period. Protists, plants, fungi and animals, including organisms of management concern, such as Eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica), wildlife pathogens and groups related to Harmful Algal Blooms, were detected. The most common taxa identified in river sediments were annelid worms, nematodes and diatoms. In the water column, the most commonly observed organisms were diatoms, algae of the phylum Cryptophyceae, ciliates and dinoflagellates. The presented dataset demonstrates the reach of 18S rRNA metabarcoding for characterising biodiversity in an urban estuary.

Beyond fish eDNA metabarcoding: Field replicates disproportionately improve the detection of stream associated vertebrate species
Fast, reliable, and comprehensive biodiversity monitoring data are needed for environmental decision making and management. Recent work on fish environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding shows that aquatic diversity can be captured fast, reliably, and non-invasively at moderate costs. Because water in a catchment flows to the lowest point in the landscape, often a stream, it can collect traces of terrestrial species via surface or subsurface runoff along its way or when specimens come into direct contact with water (e.g., when drinking). Thus, fish eDNA metabarcoding data can provide information on fish but also on other vertebrate species that live in riparian habitats. This additional data may offer a much more comprehensive approach for assessing vertebrate diversity at no additional costs. Studies on how the sampling strategy affects species detection especially of stream-associated communities, however, are scarce. We therefore performed an analysis on the effects of biological replication on both fish as well as (semi-)terrestrial species detection. Along a 2 km stretch of the river Mulde (Germany), we collected 18 1-L water samples and analyzed the relation of detected species richness and quantity of biological replicates taken. We detected 58 vertebrate species, of which 25 were fish and lamprey, 18 mammals, and 15 birds, which account for 50%, 22.2%, and 7.4% of all native species to the German federal state of Saxony-Anhalt. However, while increasing the number of biological replicates resulted in only 24.8% more detected fish and lamprey species, mammal, and bird species richness increased disproportionately by 68.9% and 77.3%, respectively. Contrary, PCR replicates showed little stochasticity. We thus emphasize to increase the number of biological replicates when the aim is to improve general species detections. This holds especially true when the focus is on rare aquatic taxa or on (semi-)terrestrial species, the so-called ‘bycatch’. As a clear advantage, this information can be obtained without any additional sampling or laboratory effort when the sampling strategy is chosen carefully. With the increased use of eDNA metabarcoding as part of national fish bioassessment and monitoring programs, the complimentary information provided on bycatch can be used for biodiversity monitoring and conservation on a much broader scale.
["biomonitoring"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Potential for cross-contamination of diatom DNA samples when using toothbrushes
The use of toothbrushes and similar devices for sampling diatoms from hard surfaces is a well-established approach. Toothbrushes are routinely cleaned and reused when sampling for analysis by light microscopy. This paper looks at the scale of contamination encountered when this technique is used to sample diatoms for metabarcoding analyses, as well as at the scale of contamination to be expected if stream, rather than distilled water, is used to wash diatoms from stones. Although some contamination attributable to toothbrushes was detected, read numbers were low and had no effect on index calculation or ecological status estimates. However, if the primary focus of a study is to thoroughly document diversity in a sample, then even this small level of contamination may be unacceptable and more stringent measures may be required.
["diatoms"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Methodological considerations for monitoring soil/litter arthropods in tropical rainforests using DNA metabarcoding, with a special emphasis on ants, springtails and termites
Robust data to refute or support claims of global insect decline are currently lacking, particularly for the soil fauna in the tropics. DNA metabarcoding represents a powerful approach for rigorous spatial and temporal monitoring of the taxonomically challenging soil fauna. Here, we provide a detailed field protocol, which was successfully applied in Barro Colorado Island (BCI) in Panama, to collect soil samples and arthropods in a tropical rainforest, to be later processed with metabarcoding. We also estimate the proportion of soil/litter ant, springtail and termite species from the local fauna that can be detected by metabarcoding samples obtained either from Berlese-Tullgren (soil samples), Malaise or light traps. Each collecting method detected a rather distinct fauna. Soil and Malaise trap samples detected 213 species (73%) of all target species. Malaise trap samples detected many ant species, whereas soil samples were more efficient at detecting springtail and termite species. With respect to long-term monitoring of soil-dwelling and common species (more amenable to statistical trends), the best combination of two methods were soil and light trap samples, detecting 94% of the total of common species. A protocol including 100 soil, 40 Malaise and 80 light trap samples annually processed by metabarcoding would allow the long-term monitoring of at least 11%, 18% and 16% of species of soil/litter ants, springtails and termites, respectively, present on BCI, and a high proportion of the total abundance (up to 80% of all individuals) represented by these taxa.
["Barro Colorado Island"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Soil stabilisation for DNA metabarcoding of plants and fungi. Implications for sampling at remote locations or via third-parties
Storage of soil samples prior to metagenomic analysis presents a problem. If field sites are remote or if samples are collected by third parties, transport to analytical laboratories may take several days or even weeks. The bulk of such samples and requirement for later homogenisation precludes the convenient use of a stabilisation buffer, so samples are usually cooled or frozen during transit. There has been limited testing of the most appropriate storage methods for later study of soil organisms by eDNA approaches. Here we tested a range of storage methods on two contrasting soils, comparing these methods to the control of freezing at -80 °C, followed by freeze-drying. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the effect of storage conditions on eukaryote DNA in soil, including both viable organisms (fungi) and DNA contained within dying/dead tissues (plants). For fungi, the best storage regimes (closest to the control) were storage at 4 °C (for up to 14 d) or active air-drying at room temperature. The worst treatments involved initial freezing, followed by thawing which led to significant later spoilage. The key spoilage organisms were identified as Metarhizium carneum and Mortierella spp., with a general increase in saprotrophic fungi and reduced abundances of mycorrhizal/biotrophic fungi. Plant data showed a similar pattern, but with greater variability in community structure, especially in the freeze-thaw treatments, probably due to stochastic variation in substrates for fungal decomposition, algal proliferation and some seed germination. In the absence of freeze drying facilities, samples should be shipped refrigerated, but not frozen if there is any risk of thawing.
["chitinolytic fungi"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

The mitochondrial genomes of 11 aquatic macroinvertebrate species from Cyprus
Aquatic macroinvertebrates are often identified, based on morphology, but molecular approaches like DNA barcoding, metabarcoding and metagenomics are increasingly used for species identification. These approaches require the availability of DNA references deposited in public databases. Here we report the mitochondrial genomes of 11 aquatic macroinvertebrate species from Cyprus, a European Union island country in the Mediterranean. Only three species could be provisionally assigned to a binomial species name, highlighting the current lack of molecular references for aquatic macroinvertebrates from Cyprus. Graphical Abstract
["freshwater biodiversity"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Metabarcoding of soil nematodes: the importance of taxonomic coverage and availability of reference sequences in choosing suitable marker(s)
For many organisms, there is agreement on the specific genomic region used for developing barcode markers. With nematodes, however, it has been found that the COI region designated for most animals lacks the taxonomic coverage (ability to amplify a diverse group of taxa) required of a metabarcoding marker. For that reason, studies on metabarcoding of nematodes thus far have utilized primarily regions within the highly conserved 18S ribosomal DNA. Two popular markers within this region are the ones flanked by the primer pairs NF1-18Sr2b and SSUF04-SSUR22. The NF1-18Sr2b primer pair, especially, has been critiqued as not being specific enough for nematodes leading to suggestions for other candidate markers while the SSUF04-SSUR22 region has hardly been tested on soil nematodes. The current study aimed to evaluate these two markers against other alternative ones within the 28S rDNA and the COI region for their suitability for nematode metabarcoding. The results showed that the NF1-18Sr2b marker could offer wide coverage and good resolution for characterizing soil nematodes. Sufficient availability of reference sequences for this region was found to be a significant factor that resulted in this marker outperforming the other markers, particularly the 18S-based SSUFO4-SSUR22 marker. None of the other tested regions compared with this marker in terms of the proportion of the taxa recovered. The COI-based marker had the lowest number of taxa recovered, and this was due to the poor performance of its primers and the insufficient number of reference sequences in public databases. In summary, this study highlights how dependent the success of metabarcoding is on the availability of a good reference sequence collection for the marker of choice as well as its taxonomic coverage.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

DNA metabarcoding of Neotropical ichthyoplankton: Enabling high accuracy with lower cost
Knowledge of ichthyoplankton dynamics is extremely important for conservation management as it can provide information about preferential spawning sites, reproductive period, migratory routes and recruitment success, which can be used to guide management and conservation efforts. However, identification of the eggs and larvae of Neotropical freshwater fish is a difficult task. DNA barcodes have emerged as an alternative and highly accurate approach for species identification, but DNA barcoding can be time-consuming and costly. To solve this problem, we aimed to develop a simple protocol based on DNA metabarcoding, to investigate whether it is possible to detect and quantify all species present in a pool of organisms. To do this, 230 larvae were cut in half, one half was sequenced by the Sanger technique and the other half was used to compose six arrays with a pool of larvae that were sequenced using a next-generation technique (NGS). The results of the Sanger sequencing allowed the identification of almost all larvae at species level, and the results from NGS showed high accuracy in species detection, ranging from 83% to 100%, with an average of 95% in all samples. No false positives were detected. The frequency of organisms in the two methods was positively correlated (Pearson), with low variation among species. In conclusion, this protocol represents a considerable advance in ichthyoplankton studies, allowing a rapid, cost-effective, quali-quantitative approach that improves the accuracy of identification.
["DNA Barcoding"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Development of a new set of PCR primers for eDNA metabarcoding decapod crustaceans
The Decapoda is one of the largest orders within the class Malacostraca, comprising approximately 14,000 extant species and including many commercially important species. For biodiversity monitoring in a non-invasive manner, a new set of PCR primers was developed for metabarcoding environmental DNA (eDNA) from decapod crustaceans. The new primers (herein named “MiDeca”) were designed for two conservative regions of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene, which amplify a short, hyper-variable region (153–184 bp, 164 bp on average) with sufficient interspecific variations. With the use of MiDeca primers and tissue-derived DNA extracts, we successfully determined those sequences (154–189 bp) from 250 species, placed in 186 genera and 65 families across the suborder Dendrobranchiata and 10 of the 11 infraorders of the suborder Pleocyemata. We also preliminarily attempted eDNA metabarcoding from natural seawater collected at Banda, Tateyama, the Pacific coast of central Japan and detected 42 decapod species including 34 and 8 species with sequence identities of > 98% and 80–98%, respectively. The results suggest the usefulness of eDNA metabarcoding with MiDeca primers for biodiversity monitoring of the decapod species. It appears, however, that further optimisation of primer sequences would still be necessary to avoid possible PCR dropouts from eDNA extracts.
["mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Optimising the detection of marine taxonomic richness using environmental DNA metabarcoding: the effects of filter material, pore size and extraction method
The analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) using metabarcoding has increased in use as a method for tracking biodiversity of ecosystems. Little is known about eDNA in marine human-modified environments, such as commercial ports, which are key sites to monitor for anthropogenic impacts on coastal ecosystems. To optimise an eDNA metabarcoding protocol in these environments, seawater samples were collected in a commercial port and methodologies for concentrating and purifying eDNA were tested for their effect on eukaryotic DNA yield and subsequent richness of Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs). Different filter materials [Cellulose Nitrate (CN) and Glass Fibre (GF)], with different pore sizes (0.5 µm, 0.7 µm and 1.2 µm) and three previously published liquid phase extraction methods were tested. The number of eukaryotic OTUs detected differed by a factor of three amongst the method combinations. The combination of CN filters with phenol-chloroform-isoamyl alcohol extractions recovered a higher amount of eukaryotic DNA and OTUs compared to GF filters and the chloroform-isoamyl alcohol extraction method. Pore size was not independent of filter material but did affect the yield of eukaryotic DNA. For the OTUs assigned to a highly successful non-indigenous species, Styela clava, the two extraction methods with phenol significantly outperformed the extraction method without phenol; other experimental treatments did not contribute significantly to detection. These results highlight that careful consideration of methods is warranted because choice of filter material and extraction method create false negative detections of marine eukaryotic OTUs and underestimate taxonomic richness from environmental samples.

Choice of DNA extraction method affects DNA metabarcoding of unsorted invertebrate bulk samples
Characterisation of freshwater benthic biodiversity using DNA metabarcoding may allow more cost-effective environmental assessments than the current morphological-based assessment methods. DNA metabarcoding methods where sorting or pre-sorting of samples are avoided altogether are especially interesting, since the time between sampling and taxonomic identification is reduced. Due to the presence of non-target material like plants and sediments in crude samples, DNA extraction protocols become important for maximising DNA recovery and sample replicability. We sampled freshwater invertebrates from six river and lake sites and extracted DNA from homogenised bulk samples in quadruplicate subsamples, using a published method and two commercially available kits: HotSHOT approach, Qiagen DNeasy Blood & Tissue Kit and Qiagen DNeasy PowerPlant Pro Kit. The performance of the selected extraction methods was evaluated by measuring DNA yield and applying DNA metabarcoding to see if the choice of DNA extraction method affects DNA yield and metazoan diversity results. The PowerPlant Kit extractions resulted in the highest DNA yield and a strong significant correlation between sample weight and DNA yield, while the DNA yields of the Blood & Tissue Kit and HotSHOT method did not correlate with the sample weights. Metazoan diversity measures were more repeatable in samples extracted with the PowerPlant Kit compared to those extracted with the HotSHOT method or the Blood & Tissue Kit. Subsampling using Blood & Tissue Kit and HotSHOT extraction failed to describe the same community in the lake samples. Our study exemplifies that the choice of DNA extraction protocol influences the DNA yield as well as the subsequent community analysis. Based on our results, low specimen abundance samples will likely provide more stable results if specimens are sorted prior to DNA extraction and DNA metabarcoding, but the repeatability of the DNA extraction and DNA metabarcoding results was close to ideal in high specimen abundance samples.
["Macroinvertebrates"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Characterising planktonic dinoflagellate diversity in Singapore using DNA metabarcoding
Dinoflagellates are traditionally identified morphologically using microscopy, which is a time-consuming and labour-intensive process. Hence, we explored DNA metabarcoding using high-throughput sequencing as a more efficient way to study planktonic dinoflagellate diversity in Singapore’s waters. From 29 minimally pre-sorted water samples collected at four locations in western Singapore, DNA was extracted, amplified and sequenced for a 313-bp fragment of the V4–V5 region in the 18S ribosomal RNA gene. Two sequencing runs generated 2,847,170 assembled paired-end reads, corresponding to 573,176 unique sequences. Sequences were clustered at 97% similarity and analysed with stringent thresholds (≥150 bp, ≥20 reads, ≥95% match to dinoflagellates), recovering 28 dinoflagellate taxa. Dinoflagellate diversity captured includes parasitic and symbiotic groups which are difficult to identify morphologically. Richness is similar between the inner and outer West Johor Strait, but variations in community structure are apparent, likely driven by environmental differences. None of the taxa detected in a recent phytoplankton bloom along the West Johor Strait have been recovered in our samples, suggesting that background communities are distinct from bloom communities. The voluminous data obtained in this study contribute baseline information for Singapore’s phytoplankton communities and prompt future research and monitoring to adopt the approach established here.
["high-throughput sequencing"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Estimating fish alpha- and beta-diversity along a small stream with environmental DNA metabarcoding
Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding has been increasingly applied to biodiversity surveys in stream ecosystems. In stream networks, the accuracy of eDNA-based biodiversity assessment depends on whether the upstream eDNA influx affects downstream detection. Biodiversity assessment in low-discharge streams should be less influenced by eDNA transport than in high-discharge streams. We estimated α- and β-diversity of the fish community from eDNA samples collected in a small Michigan (USA) stream from its headwaters to its confluence with a larger river. We found that α-diversity increased from upstream to downstream and, as predicted, we found a significant positive correlation between β-diversity and physical distance (stream length) between locations indicating species turnover along the longitudinal stream gradient. Sample replicates and different genetic markers showed similar species composition, supporting the consistency of the eDNA metabarcoding approach to estimate α- and β-diversity of fishes in low-discharge streams.

Dropping Hints: Estimating the diets of livestock in rangelands using DNA metabarcoding of faeces
The introduction of domesticated animals into new environments can lead to considerable ecological disruption, and it can be difficult to predict their impact on the new ecosystem. In this study, we use faecal metabarcoding to characterize the diets of three ruminant taxa in the rangelands of south-western New South Wales, Australia. Our study organisms included goats (Capra aegagrus hircus) and two breeds of sheep (Ovis aries): Merinos, which have been present in Australia for over two hundred years, and Dorpers, which were introduced in the 1990s. We used High-Throughput Sequencing methods to sequence the rbcL and ITS2 genes of plants in the faecal samples, and identified the samples using the GenBank and BOLD online databases, as well as a reference collection of sequences from plants collected in the study area. We found that the diets of all three taxa were dominated by the family Malvaceae, and that the Dorper diet was more diverse than the Merino diet at both the family and the species level. We conclude that Dorpers, like Merinos, are potentially a threat to some vulnerable species in the rangelands of New South Wales.
["Metabarcoding"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

New Tetraserica and Trioserica species from China and Vietnam (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericinae, Sericini)
Evolutionary Systematics
In the current study we describe four new species from China and Vietnam belonging to the genera Tetraserica Ahrens, 2004 and Trioserica Moser, 1922: Tetraserica dietzi sp. nov. (Vietnam), T. mingzhii sp. nov. (China), T. xinba sp. nov. (China), and Trioserica bidoupnuiba sp. nov. (Vietnam). The keys of the respective genera are updated, diagnostic characters of the new species illustrated, and new records of other, already known species are presented.
["Chafers"]

An annotated type catalogue and a fully digitised Crustacea collection of the Museum of Nature Hamburg, Zoology. Part I: Crustacea, Malacostraca, Peracarida, Cumacea
Evolutionary Systematics
In this contribution, we present the first annotated catalogue of type material deposited at the Crustacea collection of the Museum of Nature Hamburg, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change. This catalogue covers the entire type collection (525 lots, 10,493 specimens) of the order Cumacea, representing 139 nominal species and subspecies, including holotypes, allotypes, paratypes, and syntypes. The type material includes members of the families Bodotriidae, Diastylidae, Gynodiastylidae, Lampropidae, Leuconidae, and Nannastacidae. Species are listed in alphabetical order, with references to the original descriptions, accepted names, remarks, a brief diagnosis, and the current distribution of the species. In addition to the types, we provide a concise overview of all Cumacea material (2,250 lots) deposited in the Crustacea collection, comprising 67 genera and 341 species and subspecies from the aforementioned families, as well as material belonging to the Ceratocumatidae and Pseudocumatidae. This fully validated, publicly available collection (https://collections.leibniz-lib.de) is offered to the scientific community by the Leibniz Association and the LIB collections as part of our long-term research infrastructure.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Revision of the species of Acanthocnema Becker from Nepal, Myanmar and Yunnan, China, with notes on Acerocnema Becker (Diptera, Anthomyiidae, Scathophaginae)
Evolutionary Systematics
The species of Acanthocnema Becker, 1894 from Nepal, Myanmar and Yunnan, China are revised, including new illustrations of A. himalaica Suwa, 1986 and the description of two new species: A. malaisei sp. nov. and A. pictipennis sp. nov. All species are illustrated, distributions mapped and an identification key to species is presented. In addition, Lubomyia Šifner, 2010 is proposed as a junior synonym of Acerocnema Becker, 1894, syn. nov., giving the new combination Acerocnema orientalis (Šifner), comb. nov. This species is redescribed and illustrated.

The first fossil member of Aphalaridae (Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha, Psylloidea) from the Miocene of Southern Germany (Randeck Maar)
Caillardia sueva Burckhardt, Serbina & Kotthoff, sp. nov., a new species of jumping plant lice (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Psylloidea), is described from the Early/Middle Miocene deposits of the Randeck Maar (Baden-Württemberg, Germany) based on the imprints of a single male specimen. It represents the first Miocene record of the subfamily Aphalarinae (Aphalaridae) from Europe. The fossil is assigned to the genus Caillardia, based on the absence of genal processes, the transversely rectangular pronotum (in dorsal view), the shape, venation and pattern of the forewings, as well as the comparatively large male subgenital plate. This discovery draws attention to this neglected and often overlooked insect group and it is hoped that more fossils may be discovered in European Miocene deposits.
["Psyllids"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Study of Mite Species"]

First report of the flower-visiting family Iteaphilidae (Diptera, Empidoidea) from Iberia, with the description of a new species of Paraiteaphila Sinclair & Shamshev
Iteaphilidae (Diptera, Empidoidea) is recorded from the Iberian Peninsula for the first time, with the description of a new species of Paraiteaphila Sinclair & Shamshev, 2021, P. petrella sp. nov., from Portugal. Information on the flowering plant genera visited by this species is also provided.
["Anthophily"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

First fossil of the pseudoscorpion family Chernetidae Menge, 1855 (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpiones) from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber
Pseudoscorpions (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones) are amongst the oldest terrestrial lineages but their fossil record is still very sparse. In recent years, Upper Cretaceous Burmese amber has emerged as an important source for fossil pseudoscorpions. In this study, we extend the fossil record of the family Chernetidae Menge, 1855 – one of the most diverse pseudoscorpion families – by at least 20 million years through the description of a new genus and species, †Burmachernes gen. nov. for the new species †Burmachernes cenomanium sp. nov. from this amber deposit. Although †Burmachernes exhibits the principle synapomorphy of Chernetidae, namely venom glands in the movable chelal finger, it is distinguished from all 121 extant genera as well as the Eocene fossil genus †Oligochernes Beier, 1937 by a unique combination of characters, including trichobothrial arrangement, chaetotaxy, and cheliceral morphology. This fossil represents a significant discovery that fills an important gap in the evolutionary history of Chernetidae, extends the temporal range of the family further back into the Mesozoic, and demonstrates that chernetid pseudoscorpions had already evolved morphological features closely resembling those of their extant relatives.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

The occurrence of the family Psilidae (Diptera) in Albania, with description of a new Chamaepsila Hendel, 1917 species
Psilidae Macquart, 1835 is reported from Albania for the first time based on voucher specimens. A unique new species, Chamaepsila gropensis sp. nov., characterized by blackish-tinged wings, is described, and Chamaepsila homochroa Freidberg & Shatalkin, 2008 is newly recorded from the country. The latter record represents the westernmost known occurrence of the species and its second record in Europe.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A new species of Plagiopholis Boulenger, 1893 (Serpentes, Pseudoxenodontinae) from southeastern Yunnan, China
A new species of the genus Plagiopholis is described based on a single specimen collected from Wenshan Prefecture, southeastern Yunnan Province, China. Compared with other species of the genus, it has a unique combination of morphological characteristics: one loreal, six supralabials, 2+2 temporals, smooth anterior dorsal scales and feebly keeled posterior dorsal scales, 116 ventral scales, 32 subcaudal scales, some subcaudal scales being paired and some being unpaired, an inverted “V” shaped nuchal blotch, and a yellowish white ventral surface with many small dark spots. Phylogenetically, the new species formed a distinct clade in the genus and diverged from other species of the genus by 8.6%–16.6% in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. This study increases the number of valid species of the genus Plagiopholis to eight.
["cytb"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

On the discovery of a new polymorphic Happy-Face Spider (Araneae, Theridiidae) from the Western Himalayas, India, with notes on its natural history
A new species of Theridion is reported here from Uttarakhand, India which resembles and exhibits polymorphism like the Happy-face spiders reported from the Hawaiian Islands, Theridion grallator. The species is polymorphic in both sexes and exhibits patterns of a smiling face with dots in colours of red, black and white arranged differently. 32 different morphs of the species have been reported here which have been collected from three different locations in the northwestern state of India, Uttarakhand. This Theridion species also builds webs to hang upside down like the other polymorphic spiders T. californicum and T. grallator. The phylogenetic position of the species is also reported here which was compared against some of the Asian and Neotropical species across the world using the COI marker. A genetic variation of around 8.5% is observed from the Hawaiian Happy-face spider which indicates a separately evolved species in Asia where several morphs have been found. Despite moderate overall divergence, T. himalayana appears to be phylogenetically isolated from both its Palearctic and Nearctic congeners. This supports its distinctiveness within the genus and raises broader questions about lineage dispersal, parallel evolution of colour polymorphism and independent evolution of species in montane forests. A dichotomous key to the Theridion species described form India is also presented here.
["Happy-face spider"]

Ubristes mirabilissimus sp. nov., a new stingless bee mimicking hoverfly from the Ecuadorian Amazon (Diptera, Syrphidae, Microdontinae)
A new species of Ubristes Walker, 1852, U. mirabilissimus sp. nov., is described from the Napo Province in the Amazonian part of Ecuador. A key is given to distinguish this species from the other four known species in this genus. Moreover, DNA barcodes were obtained, which constitute the first molecular data for the genus Ubristes.
["Ant flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Drosophilidae (Diptera) of Lagodekhi and Vashlovani Protected Areas of Georgia (Sakartvelo), with a list of Transcaucasian species
A total of 407 drosophilid specimens from the Lagodekhi and Vashlovani Protected Areas are examined, for the first time, and 17 species are reported here, including two new records for Georgia [Hirtodrosophila confusa (Staeger) and Lordiphosa fenestrarum (Fallén)] and two new records from Transcaucasia [Scaptomyza flava (Fallén) and Stegana (Steganina) nigrithorax Strobl]. A list of 35 drosophilid species now known from Transcaucasia is given.

Integrative taxonomy unveils a new lineage within Acanthogonatus centralis Goloboff, 1995 (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Pycnothelidae): description of Acanthogonatus monicae sp. nov. from central Argentina
A new species of Pycnothelidae Chamberlin, 1917 from the Pampean mountain ranges, Córdoba, Argentina is described and illustrated: Acanthogonatus monicae sp. nov. Here, we combine morphological analyses, molecular phylogeny based on the COI gene, species delimitation methods (bPTP, ABGD), and ecological niche modeling. These approaches consistently support two independent evolutionary lineages previously assigned to A. centralis Goloboff, 1995. The new species is morphologically similar to A. centralis and A. parana Goloboff, 1995, but differs from both by genitalic characters in males and females. Additionally, an updated identification key for Argentine species of Acanthogonatus is provided.
["Ecological niche modeling"]

Northernmost recorded breeding of the Black Pennant Selysiothemis nigra (Vander Linden, 1825) shows further spread in the Carpathian Basin (Odonata, Libellulidae)
Northward range expansion has become increasingly common among European arthropods in recent decades. As global temperatures rise and the spread of artificial habitats alters ecological conditions, many species are establishing breeding populations outside their native ranges. The Black Pennant Selysiothemis nigra (Vander Linden, 1825), considered native to the Iranoeremian region, has shown a rapid range expansion across Europe, reaching several new countries since the 2000s. As part of this process, the species was recorded in Hungary as well as in the Carpathian Basin in 2020 for the first time, when a single female specimen was observed during a field survey. In this study, we examined the species at the northern edge of its current European distribution in Hungary, using both traditional field observations collected between 2020 and 2025 and citizen science data. We documented 39 new occurrences, including multiple swarms consisting of more than one hundred individuals. At one of these sites, where copulating adults had previously been observed, larval sampling revealed the presence of immature stages. A total of 11 naiads were found in two gravel pit lakes, providing direct evidence of successful reproduction at 47.3262°N. This represents the first known autochthonous population in the Carpathian Basin and the northernmost breeding population of the species worldwide. Our results demonstrate that the Black Pennant is established and increasingly widespread in the Carpathian Basin, highlighting the importance of confirmed breeding populations in assessing range dynamics while emphasizing the growing value of citizen science platforms for tracking distributional changes in arthropods.
["Autochthony"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A new record of the meiobenthic priapulid Tubiluchus from Cabo Verde and a comparison of external characters in adults within the genus
Two specimens of the genus Tubiluchus (Priapulida) are reported from Cabo Verde, this is the southernmost record in the Eastern Atlantic for this genus. Specimens likely belong to T. lemburgi, a species known from the Canary Islands. There are some minor differences between Cabo Verde and Canary Island populations. For better comparison, the species T. lemburgi and T. corallicola are reinvestigated and characters insufficiently documented in the literature are described. Some taxonomically important characters are clarified, because they have been described using various terms in the literature. A comparison of characters between all described Tubiluchus species identifies several differences, especially in the structure of scalids, buccal papillae and pharyngeal teeth.
["Meiobenthic"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

A second addition to the herpetological type catalogue of the Zoological Museum of Hamburg (ZMH)
In this second addition to the herpetological type catalogue of the Zoological Museum of Hamburg (ZMH), Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change, 53 additional newly discovered or newly described type specimens are presented, to expand upon the previously published type catalogues of 1998 and 2006. The species are listed in alphabetical order by family and original binomen or trinomen. References to original descriptions, currently accepted names, and remarks detailing additional information about type status are included. Lectotypes are designated for Leptodactylus kreffti, Epicrates monensis and Hemidactylus brookii haitianus. Currently, the collection contains 397 type specimens of 176 nominal species. Corrections of spelling mistakes and changes of status for some types listed in the previous two type catalogues are given here, in addition to some lost and missing type specimens, which were not recorded in the previous type catalogues.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Two new species of the Spinomantis bertini species complex (Mantellidae) from south-eastern Madagascar
We scientifically name and describe two new species of spiny frog (Mantellidae: Spinomantis) from moderately high elevations in Ranomafana National Park, in south-east Madagascar. This region has been surveyed extensively and has a remarkably high anuran diversity with many undocumented species still being regularly discovered. We describe a previously identified candidate species, S. sp. Ca07, as Spinomantis lavabato sp. nov. and a previously undiscovered species from this region as Spinomantis lakolosy sp. nov.. The new species are morphologically cryptic within the S. bertini complex but can be recognized by a combination of subtle differences in coloration such as a lack or weak expression of sharp dorsolateral color border in both species. Bioacoustically, the new species are quite different from other species in the complex: Spinomantis lakolosy sp. nov. has the longest note duration with a powerful-sounding call that rings like a bell, which can be heard over the sound of rushing water in nearby streams; while S. lavabato sp. nov. differs by having the shortest note duration that is quiet and sounds like a trill. Furthermore, both species are substantially diverged in mitochondrial DNA, with pairwise distances in a fragment of the 16S rRNA marker of 7–9% to all other related species. Furthermore, we identify a lineage for future study in the complex from the nearby high-elevation site Andemaka within Ranomafana National Park that has an intermediate sounding advertisement call between the newly described species; although we cannot formally describe this lineage herein due to unavailability of voucher specimens, this lineage emphasizes the unexpectedly high diversity of sympatric species of the S. bertini complex in the Ranomafana area. Additionally, we identify another lineage from Ambahavala in the Anosy Chain with strong mitochondrial divergence for future study. Our findings also highlight the need for continued inventory work in high elevation rainforests of Madagascar, even in relatively well-studied regions such as Ranomafana National Park.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Phylogenetic placement of Sri Lankan goblin spiders (Araneae, Oonopidae): integrating new taxa and taxonomic implications
Sri Lanka harbours an exceptionally high diversity of goblin spiders (family Oonopidae), with 45 currently recognised species across 13 genera, of which 38 are endemic. In this study, we present a molecular phylogenetic analysis based on two nuclear ribosomal markers (18S and 28S rRNA), incorporating 28 species from eight genera: Aprusia, Brignolia, Ischnothyreus, Opopaea, Orchestina, Pelicinus, Silhouettella, and Xestaspis. These taxa were analysed in the context of the existing global phylogeny, enabling both regional and broader evolutionary comparisons. Our results reveal that several genera, particularly Brignolia, Opopaea, and Ischnothyreus, are paraphyletic, highlighting the need for taxonomic revision. Endemic clades such as Aprusia, Brignolia, and Xestaspis show strong evidence of recent, within-island speciation and microendemism. The genus Orchestina is recovered as monophyletic, with Sri Lankan species forming a distinct clade. The findings support the hypothesis that reduced body sclerotisation is a plesiomorphic trait in oonopids. Overall, the study underscores the exceptional microendemism and evolutionary distinctiveness of Sri Lanka’s oonopid fauna, likely driven by both ecological isolation and in situ speciation. However, given the incomplete representation of Indian and Southeast Asian taxa, and limited molecular sampling, further studies incorporating broader taxon and gene sampling are needed to fully resolve the origins and diversification of this ecologically important spider family.

Species without borders: the diversification of giant danios in Sri Lanka (Teleostei, Danionidae, Devario)
The five species of Devario in Sri Lanka form a monophyletic insular diversification. Devario memorialis, D. micronema and D. pathirana are specialists that inhabit rainforest foothill streams, while D. altus sp. nov., is confined to a single montane site (1580 m asl). Finally, D. malabaricus, a generalist species associated with open lentic and lotic habitats, is widely distributed from ~0–1500 m asl. The taxonomy of these species has been handicapped by a high degree of intraspecific phenetic variation. Here we construct a phylogeny of, and haplotype networks for, Sri Lankan Devario using a molecular dataset derived from the cox1 and cytb mitochondrial DNA markers and the rag1 and irdp nuclear DNA markers representative of all five species. We compare the mitochondrial and nuclear phylogenies for evidence of discordance, showing that D. malabaricus appears to have hybridized with all the other species, except D. memorialis, in their contact zones. The phenotype of D. malabaricus varies with elevation as a cline, partly converging on the phenotype of D. altus sp. nov., possibly through introgression with D. altus sp. nov. or adaptation to hill-stream habitats. Through a morphological analysis of 363 voucher specimens representative of all five species, we characterize the species, thereby stabilizing their taxonomy.
["Cypriniformes"]

A ‘Crikey’ new snake: An insular Lycodon Fitzinger, 1826 (Squamata, Colubridae) from the Nicobar Archipelago, India
The Nicobar Archipelago, a biodiversity hotspot in the Bay of Bengal, harbours several poorly studied and endemic reptile lineages. Several species of snakes from these islands are known to science with just one or a handful of specimens. One such taxon, historically identified as Lycodon subcinctus Boie, 1827, has remained taxonomically unresolved, known only from a single sighting on Great Nicobar Island to date. Recent taxonomic revisions of the L. subcinctus complex enabled us to reassess the status of the population from the Nicobar Islands. Studies suggested that the species is distinct, and a re-examination of museum material and newly collected specimens, combined with molecular analyses, confirms the distinctiveness of the species and is here described as a new species, Lycodon irwini sp. nov. Given its rarity and restriction to Great Nicobar Island, and taking into account potential threats we recommend that the new species be classified as ‘Endangered’ under the IUCN Red List criteria.
["Colubridae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Two new species and three new records of the cobweb spider Platnickina (Araneae, Theridiidae) from Sumatra
Two new species of spiders of the genus Platnickina Koçak & Kemal, 2008 are described from Sumatra, Indonesia: Platnickina harapan Dhiya’ulhaq, sp. nov. (♂♀) and Platnickina debu Dhiya’ulhaq, sp. nov. (♂♀). Three species are recorded for the first time from Indonesia: Platnickina adamsoni (Berland, 1934), Platnickina fritilla Gao & Li, 2014, and Platnickina xianfengensis (Zhu & Song, 1992). Detailed diagnoses, descriptions and high-quality photographs are provided for the newly recorded species.

A new species of Rhinophis Hemprich, 1820 (Squamata, Uropeltidae) from Siruvani Hills, Western Ghats, India
We describe a new species of uropeltid snake of the genus Rhinophis based on a series of three specimens collected from the Siruvani Hills, which is part of the Central Western Ghats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu states of Peninsular India. Rhinophis siruvaniensis sp. nov. is diagnosed from other Indian and Sri Lankan congeners by a combination of 17 dorsal scale rows at (or well beyond) mid-body, 202–205 ventral scales, 4–8 paired subcaudals, and dark brownish-black dorsal and pale whitish blotched lateral and ventral colouration. Phylogenetic reconstructions using mitochondrial markers indicate that the new species is most closely related to R. melanoleucus, but the two species can be distinguished by their unique external morphology and geographic separation. The discovery of this species from outside protected areas in the Attappadi Plateau highlights the need for improved protection of the remaining forests in the Siruvani Hills.
["Burrowing"]

Gordius nixus sp. nov.: first report of a horsehair worm (Gordiida, Nematomorpha) from snow in Pakistan
Gordius nixus sp. nov. is described as a new species from Pakistan. It is the first record of a gordiid nematomorph from Pakistan. It was found on snow, which is unusual for nematomorphs. So far, no further life cycle data or host records can be given. The new species resembles other Gordius species, but is characterized by a dense covering of spines in the anterior body region, which is unique among the genus Gordius.
["Gordiida"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Parasites and Host Interactions"]

Chillcottomyia Saigusa new to Europe (Diptera, Empidoidea, Hybotidae)
A new species of Chillcottomyia Saigusa, 1986 is described from Portugal, C. ovaticornis sp. nov. This species represents the first record of Chillcottomyia from Europe.
["Dance flies"]

Over the top: Three new species of terrestrial breeding frogs (Anura, Terrarana, Pristimantis) from the highlands of the Cordillera de Huancabamba, northwestern Peru
We describe three new species of Pristimantis frogs from northwestern Peru on the basis of morphological and genetic differences. Pristimantis chinguelas sp. nov. is similar in appearance to P. wagteri but it differs by having a longer supratympanic fold, head rounded in profile, groins and posterior surfaces of thighs in a different color pattern. Pristimantis nunezcortezi sp. nov. may be confused with P. cryptomelas, but it is differentiable by having heels with a single low tubercle, skin on flanks areolate, and by lacking prominent postorbital ridges. Pristimantis yonke sp. nov. is externally similar to P. morlaco from Ecuador, but can be distinguished by being smaller, having an acuminate snout, oval palmar tubercle and lacking dentigerous processes of vomers. All species inhabit the paramos and adjacent elfin forests of the mountain ridges north of Abra de Porcuya, the lowest east-west pass in the Peruvian Andes. Despite habitat loss being evident in the area, we do not have enough data to assess their conservation status. We suggest all the new species should be placed in the Data Deficient category of the IUCN Red List.
["Elfin forests"]

A new species of Hoplias malabaricus species complex (Characiformes, Erythrinidae) from Northeastern Brazil
A new species of Hoplias malabaricus species complex is herein described from the Munim River Basin, Maranhão state, Northeastern of Brazil. Hoplias cazumba differs from its congeners by the following combination of characters: 19–22 scales around caudal peduncle, 40–42 lateral-line scales, 39–41 vertebrae, 11–13 dorsal-fin rays and, always 15 caudal-fin rays.

New sightings reveal establishment and spread of the allochthonous mantid Ameles spallanzania Rossi, 1792 in Hungary (Insecta, Mantodea)
Biological invasions driven by climate change are one of the major challenges of today’s native ecosystems. One species that undergoes such a phenomenon is Ameles spallanzania Rossi, 1792 (Insecta, Mantodea, Amelidae), a Mediterranean mantid with an extensive range expansion over the last few years. Although several studies mention this northward shift, only one occurrence has been published from Hungary until now. We present all the 27 new localities and data on this allochthonous species, concluding that it has established breeding populations in Hungary, with a growing number of observations suggesting continued expansion towards Central Europe.
["Allochthonous species"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species and the phylogenetic placement of the Neotropical genus Gephyrellula Strand, 1932 (Araneae, Philodromidae)
Gephyrellula Strand, 1932 is a genus of small flat pale spiders from the running crab spider family Philodromidae, which currently includes the type-species Gephyrellula violacea (Mello-Leitão, 1918), and the recently described G. lavidabonita Galvis et al., 2024. The genus has appeared in phylogenetic analyses as a member of the subfamily Philodrominae, but there are conflicting hypotheses regarding its closest relatives. One analysis placed Gephyrellula among the Hawaiian genera Pedinopistha Karsch, 1880 and Pagiopalus Simon, 1900, whereas the other placed it among species of Philodromus Walckenaer, 1826. To further investigate the topic, we conducted new phylogenetic analyses using four molecular markers and including two terminals of Gephyrellula. The resulting trees support the division of the family into two subfamilies Thanatinae and Philodrominae, with Gephyrellula as a member of the latter. Our results place Gephyrellula neither as a member of the Hawaiian clade nor among the genus Philodromus, but instead as a separated lineage. In addition to the phylogenetic analysis, we describe a new species of the genus named Gephyrellula condeuba sp. nov., and provide new records of G. violacea, expanding the known distribution of the genus.
["Running crab spiders"]

Protosiphonorhinus patrickmuelleri gen. et sp. nov., the first fossil member of the sucking millipede family Siphonorhinidae (Colobognatha, Siphonophorida) described from Cretaceous Myanmar amber
Millipedes (Diplopoda) are an abundant group of fossilized terrestrial arthropods throughout the Palaeozoic Era. However, there is a gap in the Mesozoic Period with only slightly more than a dozen fossils known, until more recent fossil records – mainly from Cenozoic Dominican and Baltic ambers – became available. Here, we describe a millipede of the family Siphonorhinidae from Myanmar amber, a species-poor group, comprising just six extant genera, disjunctly distributed in Southeast Asia, South Africa, Madagascar, Chile and California. Micro-computed tomography (µ-CT) enabled detailed visualizations of essential elements for description, including the tergites, legs, head, antenna, and notably the gonopods. The new genus shares some characteristics with species of the extant genus Siphonorhinus Pocock, 1894. Protosiphonorhinus patrickmuelleri gen. et sp. nov. differs from extant species of the family mainly in the shape of the antenna, tergites, and anterior gonopods. A recently described fossil species of Siphonophorida from Myanmar amber was erroneously assigned to the family Siphonorhinidae. We transfer it to the family Siphonophoridae, as Siphonophora globosa (Su, Cai & Huang, 2024) comb. nov. The description of the new genus and the reinterpretation of the previously described fossil Siphonorhinidae allows for a rejection of a hypothesis of bradytely within the Siphonorhinidae from the mid-Cretaceous to the present day.
["Amber"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Plant and animal studies"]

An annotated catalog of Annelida types at the Museum of Nature Hamburg, Zoology. Part I: Annelida: Errantia: Aciculata: Eunicida, Myzostomida, Aciculata incertae sedis, and Errantia: Protodriliformia
We present Part I of an annotated catalog of types in the Annelida collection of the Museum of Nature Hamburg, Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change. Part I includes the type specimens of 148 nominal species and subspecies belonging to Errantia incertae sedis and the Errantia clades Eunicida, Myzostomida, and Protodriliformia. The species are listed under these four groupings in alphabetical order by family and original binomen or trinomen. References to original descriptions, current accepted names, and remarks detailing additional information about type status and specimen condition are included.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Revision of the Trichoclinocera systenognatha species subgroup from eastern Asia (Diptera, Empididae, Clinocerinae)
The Trichoclinocera systenognatha species subgroup from eastern Asia is newly recognized on the basis of the long triangular projection from the ventral margin of the labellum and includes three new species, which are described here: T. elongata sp. nov., T. subelongata sp. nov. and T. systenognatha sp. nov. An identification key to species is provided and their distributions mapped.
["Aquatic dance flies"]

On a new haematophagous species of the genus Leptoconops (Holoconops) Kieffer (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) from the coastal region of West Bengal, India
Leptoconops (Holoconops) beccus sp. nov. is described from India after molecular and morphological data. Both sexes of the new species were fetched from Digha, the coastal region of West Bengal. A revised key to the Oriental species of the subgenus Holoconops Kieffer is also designed.
["Biting midges"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

Systematics of the Dendropsophus leucophyllatus species group (Anura, Hylidae) from the Chocó region of Ecuador, with description of a new species
The Dendropsophus leucophyllatus group is composed by 19 species distributed from Central America to the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. Only one species is known from the Chocó region, D. ebraccatus, which is also distributed in Central America. Previous studies suggested the existence of two species masked under “D. ebraccatus”. The only other species of Dendropsophus in the Chocó lowlands of Ecuador is D. gryllatus, an elusive species never included in phylogenetic analyses. In the present study, we review the systematics of both species based on morphological, genetic, and bioacoustic data. For phylogenetic analyses, we sequenced four mitochondrial genes (12S, 16S, COI, ND1, including flanking tRNAs) and two nuclear genes (TYR, POMC). Our results indicate that the populations of “D. ebraccatus” from the Chocó of Ecuador represent a new species, not most closely related to D. ebraccatus from Central America, but to D. gryllatus. The new species inhabits tropical rainforest and piedmont evergreen forest of NW Ecuador and SW Colombia. Populations of the new species differ from D. gryllatus by having larger body size and by the presence of an hourglass-shaped dorsal mark. The new species differs from D. ebraccatus from Central America by the absence of a clear band under the eye, by having well defined dorsal spots and by having a distinct advertisement call. Both species appear to be allopatric and, according to our time-tree, diverged from each other during the late Pliocene.
["Advertisement calls"]

The first DNA-supported record of Platicrista angustata (Eutardigrada, Hypsibiidae) from Germany and reply to Scheirer et al. (2024)
The recent paper of Gąsiorek et al. (2024a), containing integrative redescriptions of several taxonomically important hypsibiid species, provided necessary discriminative criteria used in modern eutardigrade identification. Herein, I present first DNA-backed, reliable record of a rare species Platicrista angustata from the German Taunus mountains. I also indicate that statements of Scheirer et al. (2024) are completely unfounded and result from the general lack of understanding what Gąsiorek et al. (2024a) wrote. Moreover, Scheirer et al. (2024) introduced new mistakes and misconceptions regarding Platicrista. Consequently, I provide a concise and full diagnosis of the genus Platicrista.
["distribution data"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

Little neighbours in Hamburg: free-living aquatic flatworms (Platyhelminthes)
Free-living flatworms, also known as turbellarians, are abundant and key components of aquatic habitats. They play vital roles in food webs and contribute to ecosystem health. However, our understanding of their diversity remains limited, even from comparably well-studied regions of Europe. In this work, we summarise the available records on aquatic turbellarians from Hamburg, Germany, provide new records based on material obtained during exploratory collecting, and place selected species in a molecular phylogenetic context. We sampled four localities in Hamburg, two urban and two suburban, and three other localities in Germany and Switzerland, collecting submerged vegetation, litter, and mosses. Prior to our investigation, Hamburg had documented 26 species of aquatic turbellarians. Our collections have led to the first recorded instances of Stenostomum gotlandense and Castrella alba in Germany, along with four new species for Hamburg: Macrostomum rostratum, Microdalyellia schmidtii, Krumbachia hiemalis, and Polycelis tenuis. Additionally, we provide updated information for five species previously recorded from Hamburg: S. leucops, Prorhynchus stagnalis, Microdalyellia armigera, Gyratrix hermaphroditus, and Planaria torva. The phylogenetic analysis revealed cryptic diversity within S. grande and S. leucops, with S. grande comprising two distinct clades (Brazil and Japan + Germany), and S. leucops consisting of four clades (Sweden + Germany, two from Finland, and Brazil). One of the Finnish clades, S. leucops aquariorum, is both morphologically and molecularly distinct, and we recognise it as a valid species, now S. aquariorum. Future research is needed to further clarify the relationships of the remaining clades of these two species, particularly with material from their type localities in the United States. Among rhabdocoel microturbellarians, we identified cryptic diversity within Castrella truncata (with European and North American lineages) and Microdalyellia armigera (encompassing Finnish and Spanish lineages). We also provided the first molecular evidence supporting the monophyly of Krumbachia following the sequencing of K. hiemalis. Conversely, species of Bothromesostoma were found to be nested within a clade containing species of Mesostoma, leading us to propose synonymising these genera. Overall, our study underscores the rich biodiversity potential of urban and suburban ecosystems for detecting freshwater turbellarian species, while highlighting the need for further research in Hamburg and across Germany to clarify species distributions. Moreover, molecular phylogenetic analyses have uncovered cryptic diversity in several species of catenulids and rhabdocoels, emphasizing the importance of future efforts to describe potential new species.
["Catenulida"]
["Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Reidentification of a 19th century specimen reveals the first record of Amphisbaena hogei Vanzolini, 1950 (Squamata, Amphisbaenidae) in Minas Gerais, Brazil
For almost 60 years, a specimen of Amphisbaena collected in the 19th century by the Danish zoologist Johannes Theodor Reinhardt in southeastern Brazil has been identified as Amphisbaena prunicolor. Here I present a reidentification of this specimen (NHMD R4448) as A. hogei, together with a review of known records of this small worm lizard species, endemic to Brazilian Atlantic Forest. This represents the first record of A. hogei for the state of Minas Gerais. Most known records of A. hogei are based on specimens collected more than half a century ago and urbanization could have led to local extinction in some localities, triggering an alert regarding its conservation status.
["Amphisbaenia"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Harmonicon F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896, from central-west Brazil and redescription of H. rufescens F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896 (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Dipluridae)
A new species of Harmonicon F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896, is described from the Cerrado biome in Central-West Brazil, representing the first non-Amazonian and the southernmost record for the genus. Furthermore, we present a new diagnosis of the genus, expanding its original diagnosis, and redescribe its type species, Harmonicon rufescens F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896, based on an adult female specimen from the same biogeographical area of its type locality.
["Amazon region"]

Integrative taxonomy revealed a new species of Lefua (Teleostei, Nemacheilidae) from Fukui Prefecture, Japan
Eight-barbel loaches belonging to the genus Lefua have diverged into seven species in freshwaters of East Asia. Recent studies have discovered a new population in the Kuzuryu River drainage system of Fukui Prefecture, central Japan. Based on the results of the genetic analyses and morphological comparisons, we describe this population as a new species, Lefua nishimurai sp. nov. Body width, interorbital width, orbit diameter, preanal length, snout length, and the newly examined head width greatly contributed to the discrimination between L. torrentis, L. tokaiensis and L. nishimurai sp. nov. The new species can be distinguished from other congeners by combining the following characteristics: 1) eyes positioned dorsally on the head; 2) a narrow conspicuous longitudinal mark between the base of the outer rostral barbel and the eye; 3) small dark spots on the body, dorsal, and caudal fins; 4) a small dorsal fin and eye diameter; and 5) black spots above and below the base of the caudal fin. Based on the phylogenetic relationships of the genus, L. nishimurai sp. nov. is estimated to have diverged early from its common ancestor in central Japan. Understanding the natural history of this new species and implementing conservation measures are crucial because of its narrow, fragmented distribution and presence in vulnerable habitats.
["endangered species"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Top mountain areas of subtropical southern Brazil sheltering four new small-ranged catfishes (Siluriformes, Trichomycteridae): relationships and taxonomy
Mountainous regions typically host a great diversity of small-ranged species, often contributing for delineating world biodiversity hotspots. Species of trichomycterine catfishes have been recorded for several high-altitude areas of tropical South America, but field inventories in top mountains of southern Brazil are still rare. Here we report four new small-ranged species collected in streams of the Rio Iguaçu at Serra do Espigão (RISE) in altitudes between about 970 and 1020 m asl, one in the eastern portion of RISE and three in the western portion. A molecular phylogenetic analysis indicated that these species belong to the Cambeva beta-clade, which comprises all species endemic to the Rio Iguaçu drainage, but together not forming a monophyletic group. The analysis also indicated that species endemic to high altitudes are variably related to species from lower altitudes. The only eastern RISE species appears in a basal position of a well-supported clade (Cambeva beta1-clade), with the western RISE species appearing in a subclade of the Cambeva beta1-clade with species occurring in a vast area of southern Brazil. New species are diagnosed by combinations of morphological character states, including meristic, colouration, latero-sensory system, and osteological data.
["Cambeva"]

A new species of yellow acorn ant discovered in Italy via integrative taxonomy (Temnothorax luteus-complex, Formicidae)
The Mediterranean, a global hotspot for rare ant species, hosts a significant representation of the global diversity of the mainly Holarctic ant genus Temnothorax. However, several groups still require significant taxonomic efforts. The taxonomy of the T. luteus complex species was revised in 2014 when morphometrics allowed distinguishing two valid species and two synonyms out of four taxa that had been originally described from France. The two species recognized since then are T. luteus, distributed from Iberia to the Alps, and the largely sympatric but much more xerothermophilic T. racovitzai. In Italy, only a few records of the complex were ever published, and the identity of the Italian population was never thoroughly assessed. We combined morphometrics with phylogenomic data to assess the identity of the T. luteus populations that spanned from Sicily to the Italian Alps and discovered that all Italian samples belong to a new cryptic species, which we describe as T. apenninicus sp. nov. whose glacial refugium was probably in the southern Apennines.
["Morphometry"]

A treasure trove of endemics: two new species of snake-eyed skinks of the genus Panaspis Cope, 1868 (Squamata, Scincidae) from the Serra da Neve Inselberg, southwestern Angola
Four species of the genus Panaspis – P. cabindae, P. wahlbergii, P. maculicollis and P. mocamedensis – are currently known from Angola. The analysis of recently collected specimens from Serra da Neve Inselberg, an isolated mountain located in northern Namibe Province, revealed unexpected taxonomic diversity in the group. Using an integrative taxonomy approach based on morphological and DNA sequence data, with both mitochondrial (16S) and nuclear (RAG-1) genes, we were able to distinguish two distinct populations, described here as two new species, Panaspis ericae sp. nov. and P. mundavambo sp. nov. Both species are assumed to be endemic to the inselberg. This reinforces our notion of southwestern Angola as a hotspot of skink diversity, and highlights the urgent need for the conservation of Serra da Neve.
["Reptiles"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Further contributions to the taxonomy of Armillipora Quate (Diptera, Psychodidae) with the description of two additional new species
The genus Armillipora Quate is recorded for the first time in Brazil and Venezuela, based on the description of Armillipora bifida sp. nov. Additionally, a second new species, Armillipora nawak sp. nov., is described from Costa Rica. Detailed illustrations and photographs of the new species are provided. Based on these findings and the existing knowledge of the genus, two species groups are proposed within Armillipora. Furthermore, the identification key to the males of the genus is updated.
["Psychodinae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and animal studies"]

Description of Phelene reinschmidti from Ecuador with notes on the subfamily Lophotettiginae (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae)
Lophotettiginae Hancock, 1909, endemic to the Neotropics, is one of the most ill-known subfamilies of Tetrigidae. Until now, there have not been any hypothesis on its relationship with other subfamilies. Lophotettiginae comprise only two genera, Lophotettix Hancock, 1909 and Phelene Bolívar, 1906, both with an arduous taxonomic history. Here, we describe a new species, Phelene reinschmidti from Ecuador, and compare it with its congeners: P. turgida from Peru and P. maroon from French Guiana. We found the subfamily Lophotettiginae to most closely resemble the Neotropical subfamily Metrodorinae, meaning that the two are likely related. We also provide a 3D scan of the holotype, a first for Tetrigidae. The 3D model contains all the important taxonomic characters and much more data could be extracted in the future using artificial intelligence-assisted approaches.
["3D scan"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Phylogenetic diversity of the Pristimantis anaiae species group, with a description of a new species of Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) from Cerro Candelaria, Tungurahua, Ecuador
Continuous field work on mountains in the upper Pastaza watershed, showed an unexpected cryptic diversity in the recently described Pristimantis anaiae species group. Based on molecular and morphological characters we describe a new frog species from the central region of the eastern Ecuadorian Andes. We present an updated phylogeny for the Pristimantis anaiae species group, based on widely used, ubiquitous, and available genes, three mitochondrial genes (12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, ND1) and RAG1 nuclear gene. Our phylogenetic hypothesis increases genetic diversity of the species group and shows two well-supported subclades. We show the relationships of the new species and include for the first time Pristimantis maryanneae, belonging to a clade related to P. resistencia + P. glendae. Our phylogeny shows that new species, from Cerro Candelaria, is more closely related to P. kunam from Sangay National Park and differs from it by having a less conspicuous dorsolateral row of enlarged tubercles, and sacral oval marks surrounded by thin white pale lines. The new species and two additional undescribed species occur on the south side of the Rio Pastaza Valley, at Cerro Candelaria within the Llanganates – Sangay Ecological Corridor, reflecting the high importance of this area for conservation and understanding of evolution processes in the area, suggesting a probably adaptive radiation zone for the P. anaiae species group.

New species of the pseudoscorpion genus Pararoncus (Pseudoscorpiones, Syarinidae) from Korea
Two new species of the pseudoscorpion genus Pararoncus Chamberlin, 1938 are described from Korea. Detailed descriptions, habitus pictures, and illustrations of Pararoncus leonardi sp. nov. and P. taeyoungi sp. nov. are provided. The current distribution of the genus Pararoncus is mapped and a taxonomic key for all species is provided.
["false scorpions"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Application of extended depth of field 3D imagery to tackle the challenges of cryptic species: a use case in the genus Betiscoides Sjöstedt, 1924 (Orthoptera, Caelifera, Lentulidae) and its taxonomic implications
Discovering and handling cryptic diversity among species challenges taxonomists around the world. This is particularly true for the most diverse animal class – the insects – with cryptic diversity, apart from vast species numbers, being one of the main factors that hamper the description of new species. The biodiversity hotspot Cape Floristic Region of South Africa harbors many endemic and yet undescribed insect species, inter alia, Orthoptera. In this study, extended depth of field and 3D imagery enabled for a novel assessment of the external morphological characteristics used for defining and describing the genetically highly diverse genus Betiscoides Sjösdtedt, 1924, leading to a new definition of the genus’ characteristics as well as a revision of character traits of the known species. Two new species are described and a key to all five recognized Betiscoides species is provided. Application standards are derived to enable replicable and reliable image acquisition and measuring. These findings shall contribute to promote efforts being made to establish image based taxonomic identification for researchers worldwide. High-resolution images provide the basis to train deep learning algorithms/ tools, to detect the smallest differences in highly morphologically alike species, and to implement this knowledge in global species monitoring and conservation action to prevent further species loss.
["Image based taxonomy"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Systematic revision of the Eyelash Palm-Pitviper Bothriechis schlegelii (Serpentes, Viperidae), with the description of five new species and revalidation of three
We present a taxonomic review and systematic revision of the Eyelash Palm-Pitviper Bothriechis schlegelii (Berthold, 1846) based on examination of 400 museum specimens, a phylogeographic analysis of 818 locality records, and 80 individuals sampled for molecular characters. We find morphological and phylogenetic support for five new species of Bothriechis Peters, 1859, which we describe here based on their unique combination of molecular, meristic, hemipenial, and color pattern characteristics. They are: B. klebbai sp. nov., B. rasikusumorum sp. nov., B. khwargi sp. nov., B. rahimi sp. nov., and B. hussaini sp. nov. Finally, we revalidate the names B. nigroadspersus (Steindachner, 1870), B. nitidus (Günther, 1859), and B. torvus (Posada Arango, 1889a), and provide a redescription of B. schlegelii.

﻿Two new species of the spider genus Loxosceles (Araneae, Sicariidae) from the Ecuadorian Andes
Two new species of the spider genus Loxosceles (Araneae: Sicariidae) from the Ecuadorian Andes are described: Loxosceles guayllabamba sp. nov. (male, female) and Loxosceles binfordae sp. nov. (male, female). Both species are part of the second most speciose “laeta” group, which include twenty-four described species. Only three species are known to occur on mainland Ecuador, and one species in the Galapagos. The synonymy of L. alicea under L. rufescens is rejected, detailed SEM of the female internal genitalia and a map of all the species from mainland Ecuador are presented.
["South America"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

﻿A new species of Ninia (Serpentes, Colubridae) from western Ecuador and revalidation of N. schmidti
We describe a new species of Ninia Baird & Girard, 1853 endemic to the cloud forests of northwestern Ecuador. The new species has previously been confused with N. atrata (Hallowell, 1845) and N. teresitae (Angarita-Sierra and Lynch 2017) but is genetically most closely related to a third species of Ninia endemic to the Chocoan–Tumbesian transition area of western Ecuador. We revalidate the name N. schmidti (Jan, 1862), designate a neotype, and provide a diagnosis of the taxon and a description of its hemipenial morphology based on new material. The new and revalidated species can easily be identified from one another and from other trans-Andean South American Ninia based on ventral and subcaudal scale counts, hemipenial morphology, and coloration of the supralabials, throat, and belly. Finally, we remove N. atrata from the herpetofaunal list of Ecuador.
["Dipsadidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

﻿Freshwater pulmonate snails and their potential role as trematode intermediate host in a cercarial dermatitis outbreak in Southern Thailand
This study aimed to investigate the pulmonate snail species in the vicinity of the cercarial dermatitis outbreak area in southern Thailand. In 2020, an outbreak of cercarial dermatitis was reported in Chana district, Songkhla Province, caused by the ruminant schistosome Schistosoma indicum and its snail intermediate host Indoplanorbis exustus. In the present study, 1,175 pulmonate snails were collected between October 2021 and October 2022 from five provinces covering 34 locations in southern Thailand. Seven pulmonate snail species were identified based on shell morphology, including Amerianna carinata, Gyraulus bakeri, G. convexiusculus, G. hubendicki, Physella acuta, Indoplanorbis exustus, and Radix rubiginosa. Among these snails, eight species, and five types of cercariae were identified, viz. type (i) Echinostome cercariae consisted of Echinoparyphium recurvatum, Echinostoma spiniferum, and E. revolutum, type (ii) Brevifurcate-apharyngeate cercariae consisted of Schistosoma indicum and S. spindale, type (iii) Brevifurcate-pharyngeate-clinostomatoid-cercariae was represented by Clinostomum giganticum, type (iv) Longifurcate–pharyngeate cercariae (strigea cercaria) was Diplostomum baeri eucaliae, and type (v) Ophthalmoxiphidiocercaria. Among the seven pulmonated snail species, three were found to be infected, viz. G. convexiusculus, I. exustus, and R. rubiginosa, with infection rates of 1.14% (2/176), 0.25% (2/802), and 4.02% (7/174), respectively.
["Trematode infection"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Parasites and Host Interactions"]

﻿Venomius, a new monotypic genus of Australian orb-weaving spiders (Araneae, Araneidae)
A new monotypic Australian genus in the orb-weaving spider family Araneidae Clerck, 1757 is described, Venomius gen. nov., with V. tomhardyi sp. nov. as type species. Somatically, Venomius gen. nov. is similar to the typical leaf-curling orb-weaving spiders, such as Phonognatha Simon, 1894 or Leviana Framenau & Kuntner, 2022, due to a similar elongate cylindrical abdomen and colouration; however, the genital morphology of the new genus is very different. Most unusual are the presence of two strong macrosetae on the male pedipalp tibia. Male pedipalp sclerites are complex, with diagnostic characters including the tibial macrosetae and a keeled median and a rounded basal process on the stipes. The epigyne of females is wholly covered by the scape that has a short median process. Venomius tomhardyi gen. nov. et sp. nov. has been collected in southern Australia, from Tasmania to Western Australia, where it builds a circular, vertical orb-web. Spiders often hide in silk-lined hollows in branches of trees when disturbed during the day.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Another new species of Dixonius (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Gia Lai Province in the Central Highlands, Vietnam
Another new species of Dixonius, D. fulbrighti sp. nov., is described from Gia Lai Province, in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, using an integrated approach based on morphological, categorical (color pattern), and mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (ND2) and its flanking tRNAs data. Phylogenetic analyses recovered Dixonius fulbrighti sp. nov. as closely related to D. gialaiensis from Gia Lai Province and part of a clade that includes D. minhlei, D. siamensis, and D. somchanhae. Multivariate (PCA, DAPC, and MFA) and univariate (ANOVA) analyses of 15 meristic (scale counts), six morphometric (mensural), and five categorical (color pattern and morphology) characters from 44 specimens of all eight species of Dixonius from Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia clearly demonstrated that Dixonius fulbrighti sp. nov. is statistically different and diagnostically distinct from all closely related species of Dixonius. This new species discovery highlights the underestimated gecko diversity and the importance of continued fieldwork in the Central Highlands of Vietnam.

A new species of groundsnake genus Atractus Wagler, 1828 (Serpentes, Dipsadidae) from the Peruvian Andes revealed by unequivocal morphological characters
Based on an exhaustive revision of external morphological characters we describe a new species of Atractus from the humid montane forest of the Andes of northern Peru, Cajamarca department, occurring at elevations of 1641 to 2161 m. This new species was misidentified as A. gigas in the literature and for more than a decade represented the southernmost record of the that species. In the absence of molecular data and limited by a small sample, we use some underreported characters in the genus Atractus such as the presence of apical pits. Thus, the combination of apical pits as well as other characters mentioned in the literature (i.e., head scutellation and number of subcaudals) distinguishes the Peruvian population from A. gigas, and strongly supports the morphological separation of this taxon from the rest of its congeners.
["Apical pits"]

﻿A new species and subspecies of the darkling beetle genus Thraustocolus Kraatz, 1866 from Oman (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae)
A new species of darkling beetle Thraustocolus (Prothraustocola) clypealis sp. nov. with the new subspecies T. (P.) clypealis minor ssp. nov. are described from Oman and distinguished from other species of the genus. Images of important characters are provided for easier identification and discrimination of the new species.

﻿A new species of spiny-backed tree frog, genus Osteocephalus (Anura, Hylidae), from the Yanachaga Chemillén National Park in central Peru
We describe a new species of Osteocephalus Fitzinger, 1843 using morphological traits of adult frogs and its larvae, as well as molecular evidence. The new species occurs in the premontane forest of the Cordillera del Yanachaga in the Andes of central Peru, at elevations between 1000 and 1150 m a.s.l. It belongs to the Osteocephalus mimeticus species group and is the sister species of O. mimeticus. It is most similar to three species with predominantly dark irises, tuberculate dorsal skin, and brown dorsal coloration: O. festae Peracca, 1904, O. mimeticus Melin, 1941, and O. verruciger Werner, 1901. Of these three species, the most similar is O. mimeticus. However, the new species can be easily distinguished from O. mimeticus by having a cream or creamy-tan venter with a well-defined pattern of brown chocolate blotches and flecks (venter cream, tan, or brown without marks in O. mimeticus). The tadpoles of O. vasquezi sp. nov. are strikingly different from the tadpoles of O. mimeticus by having a larger oral disk with nine lower labial tooth rows (only six in O. mimeticus). Tadpoles of the new species and those of O. festae are unique among Osteocephalus by belonging to the suctorial ecomorphological guild as shown by their large oral disks. Our time tree suggest that the new species diverged from its sister species at the beginning of the Pleistocene, ~2.5 million years ago.

﻿The smallest stag beetles (Coleoptera, Lucanidae): hidden paleodiversity in mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber from northern Myanmar
The fossil record of stag beetles (Lucanidae), especially in Mesozoic amber, is sparse. Four additional fossil lucanids preserved in mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber from northern Myanmar are here reported. All of these species are included in the primitive subfamily Aesalinae, and have been identified as: Protonicagus mandibularis sp. nov. (tribe Nicagini); Cretognathus minutissimus gen. et sp. nov. (tribe Ceratognathini); Ceratognathini gen. et sp. indet. 1 (provisional assignment); and Ceratognathini gen. et sp. indet. 2 (provisional assignment). Except for Protonicagus mandibularis sp. nov., the stag beetles appear to be connected to the continent of Gondwana, as with the Kachin amber paleofauna. More interestingly, these species have significantly smaller bodies than the extant species, with three of them measuring less than 3 mm, which makes them the smallest known species of Lucanidae. This finding is congruent with a trend toward miniaturization in several unrelated lineages of Kachin amber beetles, and it shows hidden paleodiversity of stag beetles during the Cretaceous.
["Aesalinae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

﻿A third species of glassfrog in the genus Chimerella (Anura, Centrolenidae) from central Peru, discovered by an integrative taxonomic approach
We studied the taxonomic status of glassfrogs collected in Departamento Huánuco, central Peru, which in the field were tentatively allocated to Chimerella, one of the twelve genera currently recognized in the family Centrolenidae. Detailed analyses of their morphology, bioacoustics, and molecular genetics supported their generic allocation and provided evidence for them representing a divergent and unnamed evolutionary lineage within Chimerella. We herein describe this lineage as a new species, being mainly distinguished from the two other known congeners, C. corleone and C. mariaelenae, by details of colouration in life and preservative, substantial differences in advertisement call, and differentiation in mitochondrial markers (12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, cytochrome b) and a nuclear-encoded marker (Rag-1). The new species is the southernmost distributed species in the genus and was found in a swampy habitat at the bank of the Río Patay Rondos, a tributary of the Río Monzon, in rainforest at the Andean-Amazon foothills at 798 m above sea level. Aspects of species delimitation within Chimerella and related future research are briefly addressed and discussed.

﻿Rising from the ashes: A new treefrog (Anura, Hylidae, Scinax) from a wildfire-threatened area in the Amazon lowlands of central Peru
We describe a new species of tree frog from the middle Ucayali River, Peru. Scinax pyroinguinis sp. nov. is known from two males found in a patch of Amazon rainforest at 160 masl. Externally, the new species is similar to those in the Scinax rostratus group but it differs from all members by having a rounded head from dorsal view without proboscis or pointed tubercle on the tip of the snout, large conical tubercles on upper eyelids and heels, and bright orange blotches and spots on groins, posterior surface of thighs, and shanks. Genetic analysis supports our morphological study and confirms S. pyroinguinis sp nov as a new species, being tentatively the most basal member of the S. rostratus group. The new species is only known from the type locality that is currently threatened by habitat loss caused by wildfires.

﻿Revision of Saalmulleria Mabille, 1891 (Lepidoptera, Metarbelidae) from Madagascar with the description of three new genera and fifteen new species
This is the first publication of any genus of Metarbelidae Strand, 1909 for Madagascar since 1891. Here, the genus Saalmulleria Mabille, 1891 is revised comprising three species including descriptions of two new species. Three new genera are presented: first, an African-Madagascan sister genus-group, namely Shimbania gen. nov. and Morondavania gen. nov. The genus Morondavania is monotypic and comprises one new species, while Shimbania comprises 13 species, of which 11 species are new to science. Lebedodes wichgrafi (Grünberg, 1910) and L. durbanica Hampson, 1910 are treated as valid species and are moved to the new genus Shimbania. Secondly, the monotypic Eberhardfischeria gen. nov. that shares one synapomorphy with Saalmulleria. The species S. dubiefi (Viette, 1974) is excluded from Saalmulleria, since it most probably represents another undescribed genus. Species of Shimbania occur along the eastern coast of the African mainland up to about 540 km inland from the Indian Ocean, with one record from the Atlantic Ocean coast in Nigeria (Central Africa). The other three genera are endemic to Madagascar.

﻿A new species of Microteiid Lizard (Gymnophthalmidae, Cercosaurini, Selvasaura) from a remote area in the Peruvian Andes
We describe a new species of Selvasaura lizard from the western slopes of the eastern Andes of central Peru. Among other characters, the new species differs from congeners in having keeled dorsal scales and more transverse rows of scales on dorsum. We present a phylogeny as additional evidence supporting delimitation of the new species.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

﻿A new species of frog (Terrarana, Strabomantidae, Phrynopus) from the Peruvian Andean Grasslands
We describe a new terrestrial frog from the puna grasslands adjacent to the Mantaro dry valley in southern Peru. Phrynopus apumantarum sp. nov. is similar in appearence to P. bufoides but is differentiable by lacking discoidal fold and enlarged warts on dorsum, lacking a prominent post ocular fold and having canthal and post ocular stripe. Lastly, we propose to place the new species under the Vulnerable (VU) category of the IUCN Red List, due its small distribution and habitat loss recorded at the type locality.
["new terrestrial frog"]

﻿One new species and new records of three species of the genus Forcipomyia Meigen, 1818 (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) from West Bengal, India
Forcipomyia (Forcipomyia) hispida, a new species from the Dooars region of West Bengal, is described and illustrated here based on morphological and molecular data. Among the three newly recorded species, Forcipomyia (Dycea) hamoni de Meillon was known from the Eastern Himalayas while F. (Euprojoannisia) calamistrata Debenham & Wirth and F. (E.) fuscimana (Kieffer) were from the Gangetic plains of West Bengal. The supplementary descriptions and illustrations of the known species are also presented here. DNA barcoding of two newly recorded species of the subgenus Euprojoannisia Brèthes is also obtained for the first time.
["Biting midges"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

﻿Abba, a new monotypic genus of orb-weaving spiders (Araneae, Araneidae) from Australia
A new monotypic genus in the orb-weaving spider family Araneidae Clerck, 1757 is described from Australia: Abba gen. nov., with Abba transversa (Rainbow, 1912) comb. nov. as the type species. It differs from all other genera in the family by somatic characters, specifically a patch of approximately five long spines on the prolateral surface of the first leg in males and an abdominal colouration with a pair of two central spots dorsally on a creamy-white surface. Specimens of A. transversa comb. nov. have been collected in Queensland and New South Wales, where the species is largely summer-mature. We also provide a genus level summary of all Australian Araneidae, currently consisting of 230 described species and eight subspecies in 46 genera.

﻿The range-wide mitochondrial lineage of Natrix natrix scutata (Pallas, 1771) presented in the northern Zagros Mountains
Natrix natrix (Linnaeus, 1758) is a common species distributed from Central Europe to Central Asia. In this range, it forms four subspecies that include several mitochondrial evolutionary lineages. One of the lineages, the so-called mtDNA lineage 8, has a wide distribution from the Baltic area to Anatolia and Kazakhstan. In Anatolia, this lineage meets several others, however, their occurrence is unclear, especially in the south-eastern Türkiye where the species is uncommon. Obtaining one specimen from the poorly studied Hakkâri Province (Zagros part of Türkiye), we investigated its genetic affiliation (mitochondrial DNA) and basic morphology. The specimen represents a unique haplotype of the mtDNA lineage 8, closely related to populations from Georgia and northern and north-eastern Türkiye. It thus extends the occurrence of this mitochondrial lineage representing subspecies Natrix natrix scutata (Pallas, 1771) southward to the northern edge of the Zagros Mountains. Despite the phenotype polymorphism of this species, the morphological comparison also confirmed that selected characters are similar to other populations of the region.
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Five new Indian species of the genus Dasyhelea Kieffer (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) with a key to the adult males
Five new species of biting midges, Dasyhelea (Dasyhelea) incisura sp. nov., D. (D.) quasifulcillata sp. nov., D. (D.) trigona sp. nov., D. (Sebessia) falxa sp. nov. and D. (S.) folia sp. nov. are described and illustrated based on adult males. The new species are compared and contrasted to their congeners; important morphological characters are displayed. All specimens were collected from the Deltaic Proper of Gangetic West Bengal, India. An illustrated key to the adult males of the subgenera Dasyhelea s.str. and Sebessia from India is presented. Short accounts on ecological notes of the midges are also provided.
["Adult"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿Revisiting the South American Acanthocephalini (Hemiptera, Coreidae): Spilopleura Stål (status novum)
The family Coreidae is composed of some of the larger terrestrial Heteroptera, with showy colors and expansions on the legs, the antenna or the pronotum. Among the Neotropical fauna, the tribe Acanthocephalini Stål, including 18 genera, is recognized by the strongly deflexed juga, and the conspicuously projecting tylus. In the same work in which Stål established the tribe, he described two new subgenera to the genus Acanthocephala Laporte (currently synonymized under it): A. (Metapodius) (replaced for Metapodiessa Kirkaldy) and A. (Spilopleura). In the present work, the subgeneric name Spilopleura is removed from synonymy under Acanthocephala and elevated to generic rank, and the species A. parensis (Dallas) and A. ochracea Montandon are transferred therein. The genus Spilopleura status nov. and both included species are redescribed and illustrated, including characters from male and female genitalia; and a distributional map is given with the first records of the species from Argentina, Colombia, Paraguay, and Peru.

﻿Alboglossiphonia afroalpina sp. nov. and Alboglossiphonia buniana sp. nov. – two new leech species from Africa and revision of the genus Alboglossiphonia Lukin, 1976 in Africa
Two new leech species from Africa are presented. The position of the eyes, the number of crop caeca and the gonopores separated by two annuli indicate that both belong to the genus Alboglossiphonia. Alboglossiphonia afroalpina sp. nov. differs from the other African species in its elongated body shape, the shape and size of the suckers and above all by the unique spotting on the dorsal side, which is not found in any other species of the genus. Alboglossiphonia afroalpina sp. nov. inhabits the alpine zones of the Mt. Kenya and Mt. Elgon massifs and represents the highest record of a leech in Africa to date, approx 4,500 m above sea level. Alboglossiphonia buniana sp. nov. differs from other species of the genus by its completely fused pairs of eyes, the shape and size of the cranial sucker and the head area and a jagged outer margin. The species is only known from Bunia in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Eleven species of the genus Alboglossiphonia are known from Africa, belonging to different zoogeographical areas. Northwest Africa is home to Alboglossiphonia hyalina (O.F. Müller, 1774) and A. iberica Jueg, 2008 as Palaearctic species. Alboglossiphonia polypompholyx Oosthuizen, Hussein & El-Shimy, 1988, A. disuqi El-Shimy, 1990 and A. levis Gouda, 2010 are restricted to the lower reaches of the Nile in Egypt. Six species exist south of the Sahara: Alboglossiphonia namaquaensis (Augener, 1936), A. disjuncta (Moore, 1939), A. conjugata (Oosthuizen, 1978), A. macrorhyncha (Oosthuizen, 1978) as well as those described here, A. afroalpina sp. nov. and A. buniana sp. nov. The examination of the three syntypes of Alboglossiphonia namaquaensis (Augener, 1936) showed that this species is identical to A. cheili (Oosthuizen 1978) and that the latter must be used as a synonym in future. Historical evidence from the Central Africa Museum in Tervuren (Belgium) from the Sciacchitano Collection and the British Museum of Natural History was examined. The systematic position of Glossiphonia verrucata Sciacchitano, 1939 was also clarified. Almost all species were photographed for the first time, most of them including their holotype. Distribution maps are presented for all species. All African Alboglossiphonia species are compared in terms of their characteristics in tabular form.
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Five new species of the long-jawed orb-weaving spider genus Tetragnatha (Araneae, Tetragnathidae) in South America, with a key to the species from Argentina and Brazil
Five new species in the long-jawed orb-weaving spider genus Tetragnatha Latreille, 1804 are described from South America: Tetragnatha amazonica sp. nov. (Venezuela); T. cristata sp. nov. (Argentina and Brazil); T. didorata sp. nov. (Brazil); T. oncognatha sp. nov. (Brazil); and T. pradoi sp. nov. (Argentina and Brazil). A key to the 21 species of Tetragnatha from Argentina and Brazil is provided, completing the revision of the genus for these countries. The female of T. cladognatha Bertkau, 1880 is redescribed and a neotype is proposed, and its male is described for the first time. Additionally, we update the taxonomic status of the following six South American species: Tetragnatha labialis Nicolet, 1849 and T. americana Simon, 1896 are considered new junior synonymies of T. nitens (Audouin, 1826); and Tetragnatha bishopi Caporiacco, 1947, T. linearis Nicolet, 1849, T. similis Nicolet, 1849 and T. sternalis Nicolet, 1849 are proposed as nomina dubia due to missing or juvenile type-material.

﻿Cercarial dermatitis outbreak caused by ruminant parasite with intermediate snail host: schistosome in Chana, South Thailand
A cercarial dermatitis outbreak occurred in Chana district, Songkhla Province, South Thailand, between August and October 2020. A total of 359 cases with cercarial dermatitis were confirmed with three cases of skin biopsy. The species of potential trematodes from infected snails were investigated, and the prevalence of infestation with schistosomes was described. As part of our ongoing studies of trematode diversity in freshwater systems, using morphological traits and sequence data to differentiate species, this study aimed to provide insights into the parasite species that cause cercarial dermatitis in the outbreak area and improve our understanding of parasite species distribution. Snail samples were collected in December 2020 and September and October 2021. Five main areas of outbreaks were investigated, and snails were collected by scooping and examined for infection with cercariae. The cercariae were characterized on the basis of morphological features. We found two species of snails to be infected, viz. Indoplanorbis exustus and Bithynia siamensis siamensis, with infection rates of 2.05% (12/586) and 7.93% (23/290), respectively. Three species of trematodes were found in B. s. siamensis, viz. Gastrothylax crumenifer, Astiotrema monticellii, and Loxogenes liberum. Moreover, three species of trematodes were found in Indoplanorbis exustus, viz. Clinostomum giganticum, Echinostoma spiniferum, and Schistosoma indicum. The latter is a ruminant schistosome, which causes the outbreak of cercarial dermatitis in the area. They were genetically analyzed using the internal transcribed spacer subunit II region to confirm the species identity at generic and infrageneric levels.
["Schistosoma indicum"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control", "Parasites and Host Interactions"]

﻿New data on Gnaphosidae (Arachnida, Araneae) of Iraq
New faunistic data are provided on the ground spiders (Araneae: Gnaphosidae) of Iraq. Three genera (Haplodrassus Chamberlin, 1922; Minosiella Dalmas, 1921; Odontodrassus Jézéquel, 1965) and six species (Haplodrassus dalmatensis (L. Koch, 1866); Minosiella intermedia Denis, 1958; Odontodrassus aravaensis Levy, 1999; Odontodrassus mundulus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1872); Pterotricha dalmasi Fage, 1929; Zelotes fagei Denis, 1955) are reported in Iraq for the first time, and the previously unknown female of Pterotricha kovblyuki Zamani & Marusik, 2018 is described. In addition, a list of all gnaphosids reported from Iraq (16 spp.) is provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies"]

﻿A new sexannulate species of Orobdella (Hirudinea, Arhynchobdellida, Orobdellidae) from Kii-Oshima Island, Japan
A large-type sexannulate leech species, Orobdella ibukifukuyamai sp. nov., from Kii-Oshima Island, Japan, is described based on morphologic and molecular data. Phylogenetic analyses using nuclear 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, histone H3, mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, tRNACys, tRNAMet, 12S rRNA, tRNAVal, 16S rRNA, tRNALeu and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 markers showed that O. ibukifukuyamai formed a clade with the sexannulate O. okanoi Nakano, 2016 and O. yamaneae Nakano, 2016 and octannulate O. nakahamai Nakano, 2016, which are endemic to Shikoku island, Japan.
["Hirudinida"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿The new Australian leaf-curling orb-weaving spider genus Leviana (Araneae, Araneidae)
The new Australian orb-weaving spider genus Leviana gen. nov. is described to include five species, all known from both sexes: Leviana dimidiata (L. Koch, 1871) comb. nov. (type species) (= Epeira sylvicola Rainbow, 1897 syn. nov.), L. cincinnata sp. nov., L. folium sp. nov., L. minima sp. nov. and L. mulieraria (Keyserling, 1887) comb. nov. Male pedipalp morphology, specifically the presence of a single patella spine and the median apophysis forming an arch over the radix, place Leviana gen. nov. in the informal Australian ‘backobourkiine’ clade; however, the genus differs from all other genera of this group by the presence of a spine inside the basal median apophysis arch of the male pedipalp, an epigyne that is wider than long with a scape that is approximately as long as the epigyne (but often broken off) and a lack of humeral humps on the elongate ovoid abdomen. In addition, unlike any other backobourkiine, Leviana gen. nov. incorporate a rolled leaf as retreat into the periphery of their web. Leviana gen. nov. species exhibit only a moderate sexual size dimorphism with female to male ratios between 1.3 and 1.7. Leviana gen. nov. occurs in eastern Australia from northern Queensland in the north to Victoria in the south, with a single tropical species, L. mulieraria comb. nov., spreading into northern Western Australia.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Descriptions of two new species of Culicoides Latreille from Sundarbans, India with an adult key to the ornatus species group of the Oriental region (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)
Two new species of biting midges, Culicoides cornatus sp. nov. and Culicoides pileus sp. nov. are described based on adults. The new species are compared to their congeners with close similarity. All specimens were collected from the Indian Sundarban Mangrove Forests, few specimens were mounted in glass slides and few were prepared for SEM study. Total 78 species under the genus Culicoides Latreille including the two new ones (6 species from ornatus species group) are described from India. An adult key of the ornatus species group from the Oriental Region is provided.
["Adult Key"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Animal Disease Management and Epidemiology"]

﻿The sheltopusik (Pseudopus apodus) in southwestern Ukraine? Insights from the museum collection
We provide data on the historical record of Pseudopus apodus (Anguidae) from Odesa, Ukraine based on the specimen re-discovered in the museum collection of the National Science and Natural History Museum of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine in Kyiv (NMNH) in 2021. The data show that the specimen belongs most likely to the nominotypical subspecies, P. a. apodus (Pallas, 1775). We discussed the possible origin of the record and we concluded that the specimen was introduced to Odesa most probably from its native range (Crimea or Caucasus). The uniqueness of the record and the past human-mediated interactions thus suggest an allochthonous origin rather than the historical sign of the relict population. Thus, our data clarify the situation on species distribution in the north-western Black Sea region from where we have still limited knowledge.
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿A new species of Langelurillus Próchniewicz, 1994 (Araneae, Salticidae, Aelurillina) from western India
A new jumping spider species, Langelurillus tertius sp. nov. (♂♀), is described from the Ajanta and Sathmala hill ranges of the Deccan plateau in Maharashtra (India). Detailed description, illustrations, and a map showing the distribution of all known Indian congeners are provided.
["Deccan plateau"]

﻿First record of the invasive true bug (Heteroptera) Halyomorpha halys (Stål, 1855) from Hamburg with other records from Northern Germany and possible implications for its range expansion
The invasive pentatomid true bug Halyomorpha halys is reported for the first time from the German state of Hamburg, along with records from several other locations in Northern Germany. Specimens collected by scientists were evaluated along with records from citizen science platforms. DNA barcode sequences of several H. halys specimens from Hamburg were evaluated along with 42 sequences of the species from across the world in a haplotype network analysis demonstrating that all specimens studied from Hamburg had the haplotype H3. The present state of distribution of H. halys in Germany, patterns of range extension, invasiveness, and possible economic impacts are discussed.
["biological invasions"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

﻿A new species of Mindomys (Rodentia, Cricetidae) with remarks on external traits as indicators of arboreality in sigmodontine rodents
The diversity of the oryzomyine rat Mindomys (Cricetidae, Sigmodontinae, Oryzomyini), is doubled here with the description of a new species from the remote Cordillera de Kutukú (Ecuador). The novel form can be easily differentiated from Mindomys hammondi –type species of the genus– by a large set of anatomical traits including, among others, larger jugals, parietal “wings” extending to zygomatic roots, larger otic capsules, well-exposed petrosals, narrow zygomatic plates almost without upper free borders, foramen magnum caudally oriented, larger molars, and accessory root of first upper molar present. Until now, the records of Mindomys were restricted to western Andean foothills. The material from Kutukú highlights an Amazonian species and reinforces the valuable biological significance of isolated mountain ranges in eastern Ecuador. Since Mindomys shows some external traits classically related to arboreal life, here we present a brief reappraisal of this poorly explored topic. A partially neglected anatomical system in sigmodontine studies, the fore feet, encloses crucial information reflecting arboreality.
["Arboreal cricetids"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Discovery of frogs of the Stumpffia hara species group (Microhylidae, Cophylinae) on Montagne d’Ambre in northern Madagascar, with description of a new species
The stump-toed frogs of the Madagascar-endemic genus Stumpffia are mostly diminutive in size, but there is one group of comparatively large frogs within the genus, which we herein refer to as the Stumpffia hara species group. Each of the four known members of this species group is endemic to a single location of deciduous dry forest with exposed karstic limestone rock. Here, we report on the discovery of members of this species group on Montagne d’Ambre, a rainforest-covered extinct volcano in the North of Madagascar that has a rich Stumpffia fauna but has been thought to lack members of the S. hara species group until now. We found two members of the species group, one at the peak, and one in transitional and dry deciduous forest on the west and northern slopes of the mountain. The high-elevation species is new to science, and we here describe it as Stumpffia bishopi sp. nov. It occupies a highly distinct position in the phylogeny of these frogs, characterized by ≥ 9.8% uncorrected pairwise distance from all other nominal Stumpffia in a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. It is also the smallest of the members of the S. hara species group. Our genetic results show that the low-elevation species is Stumpffia megsoni, constituting a range expansion of that species and considerably expanding our understanding of its morphology and ecology. We report its advertisement call for the first time. Our results highlight the importance of continued surveys of even well-sampled localities, with special attention on the high elevation sites of northern massifs and collection of voucher specimens, and how much there still remains to understand about even the largest of Madagascar’s small frogs.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

﻿A needle in a haystack: Integrative taxonomy reveals the existence of a new small species of fossorial frog (Anura, Microhylidae, Synapturanus) from the vast lower Putumayo basin, Peru
We describe a new species of microhylid frog of the genus Synapturanus from the lower Putumayo basin in Loreto, Perú. Specimens inhabited the soils of stunted pole forests growing on peat. The new species is distinguished from other species of Synapturanus through morphology, genetics, and acoustic characteristics. This species differs from most nominal congeners by having a head flat in lateral view (vs convex in the rest of species), a characteristic only shared by S. rabus and S. salseri. The new species can be distinguished from S. rabus and S. salseri by a combination of morphological characters and by having an advertisement call with a note length of 0.05–0.06 seconds (vs 0.03 seconds in S. rabus) and a dominant frequency ranging from 1.73 to 1.81 kHz (vs 1.10–1.47 kHz in S. salseri). Principal component analyses of 12 morphological characters and three acoustic variables further support differences between the new species and its described and undescribed congeners.
["Acoustic"]

﻿Taxonomic notes on Barinas: a new generic synonym, a new cave-dwelling species, and new records from Colombia (Arachnida, Opiliones, Agoristenidae)
Barinas guanenta sp. nov. is described from a cave in Santander, central Andes of Colombia. The new species is recognized by the pedipalps and chelicerae entirely pale yellow and without variegated pattern, the areas I-IV with variegated coloration pattern and the straight stylus of the penis. The monotypic genus Vimina González-Sponga, 1987 is synonymized with Barinas, resulting in Barinas virginis (González-Sponga, 1987) comb. nov. New records of Barinas piragua Ahumada-C. & García, 2020 in La Guajira, Northern Colombia, are given. A key for the species of Barinas is given together with an updated distribution map.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿A new species of the genus Ptyctolaemus Peters, 1864 (Squamata, Agamidae) from Sagaing, Myanmar
A new species of Ptyctolaemus Peters, 1864 is described from Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary, Sagaing Division, Myanmar. The new species differs from P. gularis and Ptyctolaemus aff. gularis from Tibet, China, by having relatively longer limbs and different colorations of the gular region, and it differs from P. collicristatus by having much longer limbs and a less developed nuchal crest in males. Moreover, the new species differs genetically from Ptyctolaemus aff. gularis from Tibet, China, and P. collicristatus by an uncorrected percentage distance of 23.5% and 24.8%, respectively, inferred from mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene sequences. This discovery increases the number of known Ptyctolaemus species to three.
["Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary"]

Taxonomic revision of the new spider genus Hortophora, the Australasian Garden Orb-weavers (Araneae, Araneidae)
The new genus Hortophora in the orb-weaving spider family Araneidae Clerck, 1757 is established to include 13 species from the Australasian-Pacific region, with ten species known from Australia (five of which new to science): Hortophora biapicata (L. Koch, 1871), comb. nov. (type species) (= Araneus biapicatifera Strand, 1907, syn. nov.; = Epeira frosti Hogg, 1896, syn. nov.); H. cucullus sp. nov.; H. lodicula (Keyserling, 1887), comb. nov. (= Epeira scutigerens Hogg, 1900, syn. nov.); H. megacantha sp. nov.; H. porongurup sp. nov.; H. tatianeae sp. nov.; H. transmarina (Keyserling, 1865), comb. nov.) (also known from Papua New Guinea); H. urbana (Keyserling, 1887), comb. nov.; H. walesiana (Karsch, 1878), comb. nov. (= Epeira rhombocephala Thorell 1881, syn. nov.; = Epeira lutulenta Keyserling, 1886, syn. nov.); and H. yesabah sp. nov. The following species of Hortophora gen. nov. are recognised from the Pacific region but not revised in detail due to a lack of material, specifically mature males: Hortophora capitalis (L. Koch, 1871), comb. nov. (removed from synonymy with H. transmarina comb. nov.) from Fiji, New Caledonia and Vanuatu; H. flavicoma (Simon, 1880), comb. nov. from New Caledonia (incl. Loyalty Islands) and H. viridis (Keyserling, 1865), comb. nov. (removed from synonymy with H. transmarina comb. nov.) from Samoa. Epeira thyridota Thorell, 1870 is here removed from synonymy with H. transmarina comb. nov. and transferred to Backobourkia Framenau, Dupérré, Blackledge & Vink, 2010, B. thyridota (Thorell, 1870), comb. nov. Hortophora gen. nov. includes medium-sized to large, nocturnal orb-weaving spiders typically with subtriangular to ovoid abdomen bearing humeral humps. The tibiae of the second leg in males is usually enlarged with numerous strong spines and an apico-ventral megaspur carrying a large spine in some species. Male pedipalps generally have an elongated, transverse median apophysis ending in a bifid tip in most species, a sinuous to straight embolus and a bubble-shaped terminal apophysis. The female epigyne scape is highly elongated and does not have a terminal pocket. Genital mutilation, i.e. breaking off the epigyne scape during copulation, is common in some species. Hortophora gen. nov. include the most frequently collected nocturnal orb-weaving spiders in Australia.

A new species of snake of the genus Oligodon Boie in Fitzinger, 1826 (Reptilia, Serpentes) from the Western Himalayas
A new species of Oligodon Fitzinger, 1826 is described based on specimens collected from Churah Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The new species is related to O. arnensis based on molecular as well as morphological data, however differs from it in several aspects. The new species shows a pairwise sequence divergence of 6–20% from congeners for mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. Lack of pterygoid and palatine teeth of the new species suggests that the diet may largely comprise of eggs. Discovery of the new species is not surprising, as the Western Himalayas has been poorly explored in terms of its herpetofaunal diversity. Considerable genetic divergence in the sampled sequence suggests Oligodon arnensis is a species complex, likely represents multiple species and a revision of the group would be desirable.
["Colubridae"]

A new species of wood lizard (Hoplocercinae, Enyalioides) from the Río Huallaga Basin in Central Peru
We report the discovery of a new species of Enyalioides from the premontane forest of the Río Huallaga basin in central Peru. The most similar and phylogenetically related species are E. binzayedi and E. rudolfarndti. However, the new species differs from E. binzayedi (state of character in parentheses) by having dorsal scales strongly keeled on paravertebral region and feebly keeled or smooth elsewhere (prominent medial keel on each dorsal scale), more dorsals in transverse row between dorsolateral crests at midbody 26–39, x̄ = 30.44 (22–31, x̄ = 27.57), and a conspicuous posteromedial black patch in the gular region of males (absent). Contrarily, adult males of the new species and E. rudolfarndti are readily distinguished by having a conspicuous posteromedial black patch in the gular region, absent in E. rudolfarndti, and by lacking a conspicuous orange blotch (faint if present) on the antehumeral region, as in E. rudolfarndti. We also present an updated molecular phylogenetic tree of hoplocercines, which strongly supports both referral of the newly discovered species to Enyalioides and its status as distinct from those recognized previously.
["Study of Mite Species", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new species of Chalepides Casey, 1915 (Scarabaeidae, Dynastinae, Cyclocephalini) from the Pantanal of Brazil
Chalepides pantanalensis Ratcliffe & Seidel is described as a new species from the Pantanal region in Brazil. A description, diagnosis for distinguishing the species, illustrations, and a distribution map are provided. The new species is morphologically compared with C. howdenorum Joly & Escalona and C. osunai Joly & Escalona.

An elusive new species of gymnophthalmid lizard (Cercosaurinae, Selvasaura) from the Andes of northern Peru
We describe a new species of Selvasaura from the montane forests of the eastern slopes of the Andes in northern Peru, based on external and hemipenial morphological characters and previous phylogenetic analyses. The new species can be differentiated from the other two Selvasaura species in having keeled dorsal scales usually flanked by longitudinal striations, in adults and juveniles; adult males with a yellow vertebral stripe bordered by broad dark brown stripes on each side and a unilobed hemipenis surrounded by the branches of the sulcus spermaticus. The description of the new species contributes information about new states of diagnostic characters of Selvasaura and natural history.
["Arboreality"]

A new cryptic species of the Pristimantis lacrimosus group (Anura, Strabomantidae) from the eastern slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes
With 566 species, the neotropical genus Pristimantis is the most speciose vertebrate genus. As a result of its striking diversity, taxonomic reviews remain a challenge. Herein, we present an updated phylogeny of the Pristimantis lacrimosus group and describe a new species from Llanganates and Sangay National Parks. We also report, for the first time, the phylogenetic position of Pristimantis degener, P. eugeniae, P. katoptroides, and P. petersi. Based on our phylogeny, we add two species to the Pristimantis lacrimosus group. Through the integration of molecular and bioacoustic evidence, we describe a new species which was hidden under “Pristimantis petersi”. Pristimantis petersioides sp. nov. is most closely related to Pristimantis petersi and an undescribed species from Peru. It can be distinguished from P. petersi by its advertisement call and large genetic differences (uncorrected p-genetic distances 7.9% to 8.4% for gene 16S). Moreover, the new species and P. petersi are not sister species. We suggest assigning the new species to the Endangered Red List category because it has a small distribution range with deforestation as result of agriculture and other anthropogenic influences.

On the systematics and the phylogenetic position of the poorly known, montane dragon-lizard species Pseudocalotes austeniana (Annandale, 1908) (Squamata, Agamidae, Draconinae)
The montane agamid species Pseudocalotes austeniana has had a complicated taxonomic history, as the species was initially described as a member of the genus Salea Gray, 1845. Later, the species was placed in a monotypic genus Mictopholis Smith, 1935, which was erected only to include this species; however, the species was later on transferred to the genus Pseudocalotes Fitzinger, 1843, owing to the morphological similarities, and lack of strong characters to diagnose the genus Mictopholis. Nonetheless, its precise phylogenetic and systematic position has remained unresolved due to the lack of molecular sequence data. During a herpetological expedition to Arunachal Pradesh, specimens of P. austeniana were collected from the hills near the type locality. The mitochondrial 16S rRNA, ND2 and ND4, and the nuclear RAG1 regions were subjected to molecular phylogenetics. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference gene trees revealed that P. austeniana is a member of the subfamily Draconinae. The analyses showed that the genus Pseudocalotes is polyphyletic, and P. austeniana was embedded within the genus Japalura Gray, 1853 sensu stricto. We here, thus, propose to transfer the species P. austeniana to the genus Japlaura, as Japalura austeniana comb. nov. Biogeographic and evolutionary significance of the findings are discussed.
["Arunachal Pradesh"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A new species of Gonyosoma Wagler, 1828 (Serpentes, Colubridae), previously confused with G. prasinum (Blyth, 1854)
A new species of the genus Gonyosoma Wagler is described from Yunnan Province, China. The new species closely resembles G. prasinum (Blyth), but it is differentiated from the latter species by the following characters: precloacal plate divided, iris blue and inside of mouth greyish-white in life. Based on phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial cytochrome b sequence data, the new species is recovered as the sister species to G. prasinum by Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood analyses. The uncorrected pairwise distance between the new species and other species of the genus Gonyosoma ranged from 11.78% to 17.07% calculated using the mitochondrial cytochrome b sequence. This discovery increases the number of Gonyosoma species to seven.
["Htamanthi"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Return of the walking dead: First verified record of the shrew Crocidura leucodon (Hermann, 1780) in Hamburg, Germany
The bicolored shrew Crocidura leucodon so far has not been reported in Hamburg with certainty. Some plausible historical records before 1920 are present; in turn, two more recent records are doubtful for different reasons. Hence, the Red List status of the species for Hamburg has to be considered uncertain (either not present, or extinct). A citizen scientist provided a specimen of an unknown shrew, an accidental catch by a snap trap, to the Centrum für Naturkunde. The specimen was caught on the 12th of September 2019 in Tatenberg, Hamburg. It was morphologically and genetically clearly determined as C. leucodon. This find represents the first confirmed record of C. leucodon for the federal state of Hamburg and increases the number of shrew species recorded in Hamburg to five. The Red List status of the species will have to be reevaluated.
["Citizen Science"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Echiniscidae in the Mascarenes: the wonders of Mauritius
Many regions of the world remain unexplored in terms of the tardigrade diversity, and the islands of the Indian Ocean are no exception. In this work, we report four species of the family Echiniscidae representing three genera from Mauritius, the second largest island in the Mascarene Archipelago. Two species belong in the genus Echiniscus: Echiniscus perarmatus Murray, 1907, a pantropical species, and one new species: Echiniscus insularis sp. nov., one of the smallest members of the spinulosus group and the entire genus, being particularly interesting due to the presence of males and supernumerary teeth-like spicules along the margins of the dorsal plates. The new species most closely resembles Echiniscus tropicalis Binda & Pilato, 1995, for which we present extensive multipopulation data and greatly extend its distribution eastwards towards islands of Southeast Asia. Pseudechiniscus (Meridioniscus) mascarenensis sp. nov. is a typical member of the subgenus with elongated (dactyloid) cephalic papillae and the pseudosegmental plate IV’ with reduced posterior projections in males. Finally, a Bryodelphax specimen is also recorded. The assemblage of both presumably endemic and widely distributed tardigrade species in Mauritius fits the recent emerging biogeographic patterns for this group of micrometazoans.
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder: Cruciform eye reveals new species of direct-developing frog (Strabomantidae, Pristimantis) in the Amazonian Andes
We describe a new species of frog from the eastern slopes of the Andes in central Peru. Pristimantis sira sp. nov. has a distinctive crossing mark on the iris and no tympanum. The new species is closely related to P. antisuyu Catenazzi & Lehr, 2018, P. cruciocularis Lehr, Lundberg, Aguilar & von May, 2006, and P. erythroinguinis Catenazzi & Lehr, 2018, but is easily differentiable by lacking colour blotches on groins. Pristimantis sira sp. nov. inhabits the mountain forests from 1550 to 2200 m a.s.l., inside a national reserve threatened by illegal mining.

Maratus nemo: A new wetland species of peacock spider from South Australia (Araneae, Salticidae, Euophryini)
A new species of peacock spider, Maratus nemo sp. nov., is described from the vicinities of Mount McIntyre and Nangwarry, South Australia. Unusual among members of its genus, the new species appears to inhabit ephemeral wetland complexes on marshy vegetation in shallow water. The discovery of Maratus nemo sp. nov. is one of several recently described species attributed to the growing interest in amateur invertebrate macrophotography, with putative new species brought to attention of taxonomists through social media engagement.

An illustrated catalogue of the type specimens of Lepidoptera (Insecta) housed in the Zoological Museum Hamburg (ZMH): Part I. superfamilies Hepialoidea, Cossoidea, and Zygaenoidea
Zoological collections remain the main archive of animal biodiversity on Earth, and especially in times of large-scale declines of many groups represent important resources for biodiversity and conservation research. The most important individuals of these collections are the type specimens, which represent the original and unique reference for a species. While a full digitization of most museum collections currently remains utopic, lists of types are an essential resource for researchers to perform taxonomic revisions. Here, we provide an updated type catalogue of the lepidopteran superfamilies Hepialoidea, Cossoidea and Zygaenoidea deposited in the Zoological Museum of Hamburg (ZMH). In this paper, we report 259 specimens labelled as “types” belonging to 36 infrasubspecific taxa (invalid under the ICZN codes), 34 subspecies (16 of valid status) and 13 species (all of valid status). We present a full bibliography of the original descriptions and illustrations for all taxa, aiming to provide a comprehensive taxonomic guide to this collection.

Dwarfs of the fortress: A new cryptic species of dwarf gecko of the genus Cnemaspis Strauch, 1887 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Rajgad fort in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India
A new species of the genus Cnemaspis Strauch, 1887 is described from the Rajgad fort in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. The new species, belonging to the flaviventralis clade, is one of the smallest known Indian Cnemaspis and can be distinguished from other congeners by its genetic distinctiveness and few key morphological characters. The new species can be diagnosed from all other Indian congeners by its small body size (SVL < 27 mm), the absence of conical and spine-like tubercles on flank; heterogeneous dorsal pholidosis; presence of only femoral pores and no precloacal pores in males; weakly keeled scales on the ventral surface of neck, pectoral, abdominal region and limbs; granular scales on the tail with whorls of slightly enlarged, strongly keeled tubercles; and the absence of enlarged median subcaudal scales. The new species is currently known to inhabit the man-made historical structures from a single locality in Rajgad, Maharashtra, where it is presumed to be uncommon.
["Cnemaspis rajgadensis sp. nov."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of geckos of the genus Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 from Arunachal Pradesh, India
We here describe a new species of bent-toed geckos from the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, which is widespread across the Dafla and Mishmi hills, occurring at elevations ranging from 179 m to 1400 m. The new species is recovered as sister to the Cyrtodactylus khasiensis clade based on a molecular phylogeny inferred from mitochondrial NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase, subunit 2 gene. Intraspecific uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence (p-distance) for the new species was found to be between 0 and 5%, whereas the interspecific divergence from the closely-related congeners was between 19 and 30%. The new species can be differentiated from members of the C. khasiensis clade using a suite of morphological characters: moderate body size (SVL 64.9–81.7); 8–11 supralabials; 8–10 infralabials; 24–26 bluntly conical, feebly keeled dorsal tubercles; 50–60 paravertebral tubercles; ~38 ventral scales between ventrolateral folds; no precloacal groves; 6–10 precloacofemoral pores in a continuous series; 10–16 distal subdigital lamellae on IV of pes; subcaudal scalation of original tail without enlarged plates. This is the fourth reptile species described from Arunachal Pradesh from the expedition led by the team, and this further highlights the need for further herpetological investigations into the region.

A new vine snake (Reptilia, Colubridae, Oxybelis) from Peru and redescription of O. acuminatus
The Brown Vine Snake, Oxybelis aeneus, was until recently considered a single species, distributed from southern Arizona through the Neotropics into southeastern Brazil. However, newly conducted research restructured the species with a substantial taxonomic revision, recognizing five additional taxa (i.e. O. koehleri, O. microphthalmus, O. potosiensis, O. rutherfordi, O. vittatus) in this species complex. This revision focused on populations in North America, Central America, and northern South America while neglecting the southern portion of its distribution. Here, we examine the taxonomic history of the complex and use it along with specimen data to resurrect O. acuminatus from southeastern Brazil. Finally, we describe a new species from the Peruvian Amazon based on morphological characters. This work increases the species diversity of the O. aeneus complex to eight, and we expect further increases in biodiversity discoveries with continued exploration of the New World vine snakes.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

On the taxonomy and systematics of the recently described Lycodon deccanensis Ganesh, Deuti, Punith, Achyuthan, Mallik, Adhikari, Vogel, 2020 (Serpentes, Colubridae) from India
Lycodon deccanensis Ganesh, Deuti, Punith, Achyuthan, Mallik, Adhikari, Vogel, 2020 was recently described from the Mysore plateau of Karnataka based solely on morphology but lacking in-depth descriptions and comparisons. A scrutiny of the description reveals that the type series, of two specimens, comprise specimens of two different species along with discrepancies throughout the paper. Surveys conducted near the type locality of the species led to the discovery of additional specimens, which allow us to provide an elaborate description of the species and present data on its phylogenetic relationship with members of the genus and comments on the systematics of Lycodon of India. Results from molecular phylogenetics suggest that Lycodon deccanensis is a member of the L. aulicus clade based on molecular data for mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and shows an un-corrected p-distance (sequence divergence) of 14–17% from other members of the Lycodon aulicus clade.
["Cytochrome b"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Digital Imaging for Blood Diseases"]

New subgenera and species of Agraeciini (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae, Conocephalinae) from South Asia found in historical insect collections
Based on specimens collected in historical times and stored in the insect collections of the Natural History Museum London and the Zoological Museum Hamburg two new subgenera are established Robustacca subgen. nov. of the genus Peracca Griffini, 1897 and Indoliara subgen. nov. of the genus Liara Redtenbacher, 1891. Five new species are described: Peracca (Robustacca) nigrifrons sp. nov. from Sumatra, Liara (Acanthocoryphus) durata sp. nov. from Hongkong, Liara (Indoliara) dividata sp. nov. from South India, Pseudosubria assamensis sp. nov. from Assam and Depressacca kinabalu sp. nov. from Sabah. The species Odontoconus robustus Karny, 1923 is newly combined as Peracca (Robustacca) robustus (Karny, 1923) comb. nov. An extended and updated key to the subgenera of the genus Peracca Griffini, 1897 is provided. All specimens are deposited in the original collections.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Four new species of Stenocercus Duméril & Bibron, 1837 (Squamata, Iguania) from the Department of Amazonas in northeastern Peru
The tropical Andes are known to be the richest and most diverse place on earth. This mountainous region covers almost one third of the Peruvian territory, and its herpetofauna remains poorly known. The lizard genus Stenocercus Duméril & Bibron, 1837 contains 69 species and most of them occur in the tropical Andes, although some exist as high as 4000 m a.s.l. The examination of newly collected material from the Andes of northern Peru in the Department of Amazonas reveals four new species of Stenocercus which we describe below. Of these four new species, three inhabit the ecoregion of Peruvian Yungas at elevations of 1460 to 2370 m a.s.l., and one the Marañón dry forest ecoregion at elevations of 1340 to 1470 m a.s.l. Additionally, we provide new data about coloration, natural history and distribution of the poorly known S. aculeatus O’Shaughnessy, 1879; and discuss the identity of some populations of S. prionotus Cadle, 2001 and S. scapularis Boulenger, 1901.

A new species of Sacada Walker, 1862 from Thailand (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Pyralinae)
A new species of Sacada from northern Thailand is described: S. chaehomensis sp. nov. Pellinen & Zahiri (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae, Pyralinae). Morphological characters and DNA barcode data are provided for the new species, with a morphological comparison to S. dzonguensis and S. umtasorensis, and a DNA-barcode comparison to S. ragonotalis and S. albioculalis, respectively. After this addition, the current number of valid species in the genus Sacada is 43.
["Species description"]

The northernmost record of the Asian hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax (Hymenoptera, Vespidae)
For the first time the Asian hornet Vespa velutina has been found in Hamburg (Northern Germany). So far this is the northernmost occurrence of this originally SE-Asian species in Europe and in the world. It remains unclear whether this is a single accidentally translocated specimen or one of a population already reproducing. The find may suggest that the species will possibly spread much faster than previously anticipated and modelled.
["Hamburg"]

On three new species of jumping spiders of the genera Habrocestum Simon, 1876, Stenaelurillus Simon, 1886 and Tamigalesus Żabka, 1988 (Araneae, Salticidae) from Sri Lanka
Three new species of litter-dwelling jumping spiders, Habrocestum liptoni sp. nov., Stenaelurillus ilesai sp. nov., and Tamigalesus fabus sp. nov. are described from Sri Lanka. In addition, T. munnaricus is redescribed based on the new material from Sri Lanka.

An annotated catalogue of the scorpion types (Arachnida, Scorpiones) held in the Zoological Museum Hamburg. Part I: Parvorder Iurida Soleglad & Fet, 2003
Scorpions have always inspired fear and fascination because of the potency of their venoms. Although this ancient arachnid group is relatively small (ca. 2400 species) and has been continuously studied for the past century, the taxonomy is still in a state of flux and the correct identification of species often remains difficult. With more than 725 species and 9000 specimens, the Zoological Museum in Hamburg (ZMH) holds one of the largest and most significant scorpion collections in the world. This collection also contains many historical types described by Karl Kraepelin in the early 20th century. In order to contribute to a more stable scorpion taxonomy and to assist future scorpion researchers, we present an illustrated and annotated catalogue of the ZMH scorpion collections. The type specimens of 89 species belonging to 10 families are documented, imaged and assessed alongside their primary data. For practical reasons, only the taxa belonging to the parvorder Iurida Soleglad et Fet, 2003 are presented here whilst the Parvorder Buthida Soleglad et Fet, 2003 will be catalogued in a second publication.
["arachnology"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A new yellow-toed Platypelis species (Anura, Microhylidae, Cophylinae) from the Maroantsetra region, northeastern Madagascar
We describe a new species of arboreal narrow-mouthed frog, genus Platypelis, from Ambodivoangy near Maroantsetra in northeastern Madagascar. The new species, Platypelis ando sp. nov., is characterised by small body size (under 19 mm), a generally rather slender body, yellowish finger and toe tips, and a dark brown dorsal chevron. Its advertisement call is a single, moderately long, high-pitched whistle repeated at regular intervals. It is the sister species of P. ravus from Marojejy National Park, but differs from that species by considerable pairwise genetic distances (7.9%) in a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene, and also in bioacoustic and morphological features, especially the absence of yellow on the posterior abdomen. It is also surprisingly similar in external appearance to Cophyla occultans and C. maharipeo, to which it is not, however, closely related; these species are most easily discerned based on their calls. Platypelis ando sp. nov. joins the ranks of several species recently described from Ambodivoangy with close affiliations to species in the nearby Marojejy National Park, that are still divergent at species level. The species qualifies as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List criteria, in line with other species recently assessed from this area, but we urge that more research be conducted in the nearby forests to extend the range of this and other species known only from Ambodivoangy.

The genus Syrrhoe (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Synopiidae) from the North Atlantic
Three species of the amphipod genus Syrrhoe are described from the North Atlantic. The differences between these species are primarily the patterns of serration of the posterior margins of pleonite 3 and urosomite 1 and 2: Syrrhoe affinis has a wide convex space on the posterior margin between the epimeron 3 and the dorsal serration. In Syrrhoe crenulata and Syrrhoe anneheleneae sp. nov. there is only a small notch on the posterior margin of pleonite 3. Syrrhoe anneheleneae sp. nov., otherwise similar to S. crenulata, has an additional serration on the posterior margin of urosomite 1. The inter- and intraspecific distances analyzed from COI confirm the morphological species concept of North Atlantic Syrrhoe.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

The Brushed Jumping Spiders (Araneae, Salticidae, Jotus L. Koch, 1881) from Eastern Australia
The Australian fauna of Jumping spiders (family Salticidae) is highly diverse and includes iconic lineages such as the peacock spiders (genus Maratus Karsch, 1878) that are well-known for their vibrant colours and fascinating behaviours. Many other jumping spiders in Australia are also highly attractive but almost nothing is known about their diversity and taxonomic identity. Here, we describe and illustrate eight species of ‘brushed’ jumping spiders (genus Jotus L. Koch, 1881). Three of these were described more than 140 years ago and are redescribed and illustrated here: Jotus auripes L. Koch, 1881, J. braccatus L. Koch, 1881 and J. minutus L. Koch, 1881. Five new species are also described: Jotus albimanus sp. nov., J. fortiniae sp. nov., J. karllagerfeldi sp. nov., Jotus moonensis sp. nov., and J. newtoni sp. nov. While Jotus is a diverse and frequently observed genus in Australia, specimens are strangely rare in museum collections. A comprehensive revisionary framework including targeted field work and molecular methods will be required to fully document this charismatic and attractive group of spiders.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Boring Amphipods from Tasmania, Australia (Eophliantidae: Amphipoda: Crustacea)
An overview of boring Australian Eophliantidae is provided along with the description of two new species of the genus Bircenna Chilton, 1884, B. thieli sp. nov. and B. hinojosai sp. nov. Interestingly, these species co-occur in samples of the bull kelp Durvillaea potatorum (Labillardière) Areschoug, 1854 collected in Tasmania, Australia and present a number of novel urosomite and telson structures not previously recorded. An updated key to the 16 world species is given.
["Bircenna"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

New Echiniscidae (Heterotardigrada) from Amber Mountain (Northern Madagascar)
A moss sample from the local biodiversity hotspot in lowland rainforest in the vicinity of Amber Mountain, Madagascar, yielded the discovery of two Echiniscus C.A.S. Schultze, 1840 species, of which one is new to science. Echiniscus succineus sp. nov. is related to other members of the spinulosus group, but differs from them by the highly complicated structure of the dorsal plates, with intricately thickened parts of the armour forming ornamented pattern. The validity of the intraporal dark rings as a taxonomic trait is discussed in the context of the recovered intraspecific variability for the new taxon. Besides, rare Echiniscus africanus Murray, 1907 is reported for the first time from the island.
["appendages cuticle"]

Generic and family transfers, and numina dubia for orb-weaving spiders (Araneae, Araneidae) in the Australasian, Oriental and Pacific regions
As part of a current revision of the Australasian and Pacific orb-weaving spider fauna (family Araneidae Clerck, 1757), a number new combinations are proposed in the genera Acroaspis Karsch, 1878 (3 species), Carepalxis L. Koch, 1872 (1 species), Cyclosa Menge, 1866 (5 species), and Neoscona Simon, 1864 (7 species): Acroaspis lancearia (Keyserling, 1887), comb. n., A. mamillana (Keyserling, 1887), comb. n., A. scutifer (Keyserling, 1886), comb. n., Carepalxis furcifera (Keyserling, 1886), comb. n.; Cyclosa anatipes (Keyserling, 1887), comb. n.; Cyclosa apoblepta (Rainbow, 1916), comb. n.; Cyclosa argentaria (Rainbow, 1916), comb. n.; Cyclosa lichensis (Rainbow, 1916), comb. n.; Cyclosa poweri (Rainbow, 1916), comb. n.; Neoscona decolor (L. Koch, 1871), comb. n.; Neoscona enucleata (Karsch, 1879), comb. n.; Neoscona flavopunctata (L. Koch, 1871), comb. n.; Neoscona floriata (Hogg, 1914), comb. n.; Neoscona granti (Hogg, 1914), comb. n.; Neoscona inusta (L. Koch, 1871), comb. n.; and Neoscona notanda (Rainbow, 1912), comb. n. The following two Australian species, currently placed in Araneus, are not Araneidae but comb-footed spiders (family Theridiidae Sundevall, 1833): Anelosimus dianiphus (Rainbow, 1916), comb. n. and Theridion xanthostichus (Rainbow, 1916), stat. and comb. n. The following six species are considered numina dubia as their type material is immature or otherwise unidentifiable (e.g. partly destroyed): Araneus acachmenus Rainbow, 1916; Araneus agastus Rainbow, 1916; Araneus exsertus Rainbow, 1904; Araneus suavis Rainbow, 1899; Carepalxis coronata (Rainbow, 1896); and Heurodes turritus Keyserling, 1886. Heurodes fratellus (Chamberlin, 1924) is considered a nomen dubium and Heurodes porcula (Simon, 1877) is returned to Eriovixia Archer, 1951, Eriovixia porcula (Simon, 1877). Type material of predominantly Australian species described by E. v. Keyserling (1 species), W. J. Rainbow (10 species), A. T. Urquhart (8 species), and C. A. Walckenaer (2 species) is here considered destroyed or otherwise lost. As it is impossible to identify these species from their original descriptions and considering the known spider fauna from their respective type localities, they are all considered numina dubia: Anepsia crinita Rainbow, 1893; Epeira diabrosis (Walckenaer, 1841); Epeira diversicolor Rainbow, 1893; Epeira ficta Rainbow, 1896; Epeira hamiltoni Rainbow, 1893; Epeira lacrymosa (Walckenaer, 1841); Epeira leai Rainbow, 1894; Epeira mortoni Urquhart, 1891; Epeira notacephala Urquhart, 1891; Epeira obscurta Urquhart, 1893; Epeira phalerata Urquhart, 1893; Epeira pronuba Rainbow, 1894; Epeira rara Keyserling, 1887; Epeira singulara Urquhart, 1891; Epeira sub-flavida Urquhart, 1893; Epeira similaris Rainbow, 1896 (= Araneus urquharti Roewer, 1942 replacement name); Epeira ventriosa Urquhart, 1891; and Epeira viridula Urquhart, 1891.
["Theridiidae"]

The wolf spider genus Artoria in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, Australia (Araneae, Lycosidae, Artoriinae)
The wolf spider (Lycosidae Sundevall, 1833) genus Artoria Thorell, 1877 is revised for New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, Australia, to include 34 species, 21 of which are new to science: A. albopilata (Urquhart, 1893), A. alta Framenau 2004, A. beaury sp. n., A. barringtonensis sp. n., A. belfordensis sp. n., A. berenice (L. Koch, 1877), A. bondi sp. n., A. booderee sp. n., A. comleroi sp. n., A. corowa sp. n., A. equipalus sp. n., A. extraordinaria sp. n., A. flavimana Simon, 1909, A. gloriosa (Rainbow, 1920), A. grahammilledgei sp. n., A. helensmithae sp. n., A. howquaensis Framenau, 2002, A. kanangra sp. n., A. kerewong sp. n., A. lineata (L. Koch, 1877), A. maroota sp. n., A. mckayi Framenau, 2002, A. mungo sp. n., A. munmorah sp. n., A. myallensis sp. n., A. quadrata Framenau, 2002, A. slatyeri sp. n., A. strepera sp. n., A. taeniifera Simon, 1909, A. terania sp. n., A. triangularis Framenau, 2002, A. ulrichi Framenau, 2002, A. victoriensis Framenau, Gotch & Austin, 2006, and A. wilkiei sp. n. Lycosa pruinosa L. Koch, 1877, currently listed in Artoria, is considered a nomen dubium. Artoria are largely forest dwellers, although some species have preferences for more open areas such as riparian or coastal environments or grasslands. Consequently, the genus mainly occurs east and west along the Great Dividing Range, although some species can be found into the Riverina, Cobar Peneplain and Darling Riverine Plains IBRA regions to the west.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

The spider genus Pterotricha Kulczyński, 1903 (Araneae, Gnaphosidae) in the United Arab Emirates
Spiders of the gnaphosid genus Pterotricha Kulczyński, 1903 occurring in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are surveyed on the basis of a large collection deposited in the American Museum of Natural History. Within the examined material, six species were recognized, four of which are described as new to science: P. arabica sp. n. (♂♀), P. esyunini sp. n. (♂), P. nadolnyi sp. n. (♂) and P. stevensi sp. n. (♂), and two are newly recorded for the fauna of the UAE: P. dalmasi Fage, 1929 (hitherto known from Algeria, Egypt, Sudan, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and possibly Iran) and P. kovblyuki Zamani & Marusik, 2018 (hitherto known only from Iran). Illustrations for all treated species and a map of collection localities are provided.

New species of tube web spiders of the genus Ariadna from South Australia (Araneae, Segestriidae)
Two new species in the tube-web spider genus Ariadna Audouin, 1826 (Segestriidae Simon, 1893) are described from South Australia based on morphological features of both males and females. Ariadna clavata sp. n. and Ariadna tangara sp. n. are widespread and sympatric on eastern Kangaroo Island, where they are found beneath bark, in borer holes in dead wood, and in short burrows under rocks. They have also been found in south-eastern mainland South Australia and bring the total number of described Australian Ariadna to 13 species. We showcase intraspecific variation in both species based on a significant number of specimens, including substantial size variation in females and variations in patterns of leg spination. For male Ariadna, we also establish the previously unknown functions of apophyses and spines on the metatarsi and tibiae on the first legs, which are used during mating to clasp the female.
["Kangaroo Island mating adaptation spider taxonomy"]

An updated diagnosis of the rare Amphisbaena slateri Boulenger, 1907, based on additional specimens (Squamata, Amphisbaenia, Amphisbaenidae)
Amphisbaena slateri is a rare species of worm lizard from Peru and Bolivia, known only from three specimens. We found two additional specimens of this taxon, housed at the herpetological collections of the Zoological Museum (Cenak), Universität Hamburg, and the University of Kansas Biodiversity Institute, updating its known geographic distribution and morphological variation. We also discovered an unpublished manuscript by late Carl Gans reporting the finding of the Hamburg specimen, which we reproduce here with the permission of his family. Amphisbaena slateri can be identified by a combination of characters including counts of annuli, segments, and pores, the shape of head scales and color pattern. Basic morphological data is given for all species of Amphisbaenia known for Bolivia and Peru to aid in the identification of specimens from those countries.

An updated checklist of the amphibian diversity of Maliau Basin Conservation Area, Sabah, Malaysia
The current account presents the results of a 14-day amphibian survey at Maliau Basin Conservation Area (MBCA). With a total of approximately 170 man-hrs, 44 species were detected at four study sites during the field period; four more species were later discovered outside the two-week campaign. The results are compared to the results of previous surveys. Apart from adults, we present the first photographic documentation of the larval stages of Chiromantis inexpectatus and Bornean Phrynoidis juxtaspera, along with a brief tadpole description; the better-known tadpoles of four more species were recorded. The results of our expedition suggest that nine more species are present at MBCA than reported by previous studies. We present an updated list of known species in the MBCA, comprising 61 species. The species accumulation curve over the 14 days period of the core survey did not show signs of asymptotic saturation. We conclude that the definitive species number for MBCA amphibians has the potential to increase with more thorough surveys in the future.
["regional inventory rapid assessment anuran biodiversity visual encounter genetic barcode"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Phylogeography, species delimitation and population structure of a Western Australian short-range endemic mite harvestman (Arachnida: Opiliones: Pettalidae: Karripurcellia)
The mite harvestmen of the genus Karripurcellia Giribet, 2003 are endemic to the tall, wet eucalypt forests of south-western Western Australia, a region known as a hotspot for biodiversity. Currently, there are two accepted species, K. peckorum Giribet, 2003 and K. sierwaldae Giribet, 2003, both with type localities within the Warren National Park. We obtained 65 COI mtDNA sequences from across the entire distributional range of the genus. These sequences, falling into two to three geographically separate groups, probably correspond to two species. Morphologically, all of the studied specimens correspond to K. peckorum, suggesting cryptic speciation within that species. A few common haplotypes occur in more than one population, but most haplotypes are confined to a single population. As a result, populations are genetically differentiated and gene flow after initial colonization appears to be very limited or completely lacking. Our study provides another example of short-range endemism in an invertebrate from the south-western mesic biome.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Taxonomic descriptions of nine new species of the goblin spider genera Cavisternum, Grymeus, Ischnothyreus, Opopaea, Pelicinus and Silhouettella (Araneae, Oonopidae) from Sri Lanka
Nine new species of goblin spiders are described in six different genera: Cavisternum bom n. sp., Grymeus dharmapriyai n. sp., Ischnothyreus chippy n. sp., Opopaea spinosiscorona n. sp., Pelicinus snooky n. sp., P. tumpy n. sp., Silhouettella saaristoi n. sp., S. snippy n. sp. and S. tiggy n. sp. Three genera are recorded for the first time in Sri Lanka: Cavisternum, Grymeus and Silhouettella. The first two genera are reported for the first time outside of Australia. Sri Lankan goblin spider diversity now comprises 45 described species in 13 different genera.

A new species of Charinus (Amblypygi: Charinidae) from Ghana, with notes on West African whip spiders
The fauna of whip spiders (Amblypygi) in Western Africa is poorly known but probably diverse. Here, I describe the new species Charinus kakum sp. n. based on female morphology, and accompanied by DNA sequence data. The species is small and differs from other African species of Charinus in the low number of pseudosegments on leg IV, female genital features, spination patterns of the pedipalp, and small body size. It was collected from wet tropical rainforest in Kakum National Park, Ghana and is only the fourth species of Charinus to be recorded from the highly diverse Western African biodiversity hotspot. With a total body length of not even 6 mm it is also one of the smallest whip spiders in the world.
["Amblypygid"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Raising the Dead: Rediscovery and redescription of some lost spider types (Araneae) described by Eugène Simon
In this paper, we are redescribing type material from the Zoological Museum in Hamburg that was thought to be lost. These specimens were described in 1902 by Eugène Simon from material collected in Southern Patagonia and Fireland but the species were subsequently considered nomina dubia, or simply not considered at all. The rediscovery of this material leads to the revalidation of two genera and four species. The genera Clitistes and Zilephus are reinstated and the species Clitistes velutinus Simon, 1902 (Dictynidae), Zilephus granulosus Simon, 1902, Minyriolus australis Simon, 1902 (both Linyphiidae), and Lycosa michaelseni Simon, 1902 (Lycosidae) are redescribed. To avoid further confusion, we designate lectotypes for: Linyphiidae: Minyriolus australis Simon, 1902, Gongylidiellum uschuaiense Simon, 1902, Neriene fuegiana Simon, 1902, Clitistes velutinus Simon, 1902, Zilephus granulosus Simon, 1902; Amphinectidae: Rubrius radulifer Simon, 1902; Hahniidae: Hahnia michaelseni Simon, 1902, Bigois antarctica Simon, 1902 and Lycosidae: Lycosa michaelseni Simon, 1902. For all prior nomina dubia and newly designated lectotypes, the type specimens are re-described and properly illustrated for the first time.
["Dictynidae"]

The goblin spiders (Araneae, Oonopidae) of the OTONGA Nature Reserve in Ecuador, with the description of seven new species
The goblin spiders (Araneae, Oonopidae) of the Otonga Nature Reserve in the Chocó region of Ecuador are reviewed. A total of 1034 adult specimens were collected in 2014 and 23 morphospecies in eight different genera were identified from these collections. We describe seven new species: one in the genus Niarchos Platnick & Dupérré: Niarchos normani sp. n.; three in Scaphidysderina Platnick & Dupérré: Scaphidysderina chirin sp. n., S. lubanako sp. n., S. tsaran sp. n.; two in Bipoonops Bolzern: Bipoonops lansa sp. n., B. pilan sp. n.; and one in Reductoonops Platnick & Berniker: Reductoonops berun sp. n. The males of Niarchos baehrae Platnick & Dupérré, 2010 and Orchestina yanayacu Izquierdo, 2017 are described here for the first time. Natural history and collecting data are given for all morphospecies collected, including Niarchos barragani Platnick & Dupérré, 2010, Scaphidysderina cotopaxi Platnick & Dupérré, 2011, Scaphidysderina pinocchio Platnick & Dupérré, 2011, Orchestina otonga Izquierdo, 2017, Orchestina santodomingo Izquierdo, 2017, Orchestina truncata Wunderlich, 2004, Reductoonops otonga Platnick & Berniker, 2014, Reductoonops pichincha Platnick & Berniker, 2014, Paradysderina fusiscuta Platnick & Dupérré, 2011, Scaphiella pich Platnick & Dupérré, 2010 and Tinadyserina otonga Platnick et al., 2013. The data show that oonopid spiders are a major element of the arachnofauna present in the Chocó neotropical forests.
["Goblin spiders"]

Portacosa, a new genus for the south-east Australian Grey Wolf Spider (Araneae, Lycosidae, Lycosinae)
A new monotypic genus of Australian wolf spiders is proposed to accommodate the common south-east Australian Grey Wolf Spider, Portacosa cinerea gen. n. and sp. n. The genus includes large (total length 9.5–25.0 mm), uniformly grey-coloured wolf spiders with unique genital morphology, i.e. the ventral ridge of the tegular apophysis in the male pedipalp is comparatively sharp and situated towards its retrolateral edge, and the distinct anterior hood of the female epigyne is continuous with the inverted T-shaped median septum. Unlike most other members of the Lycosinae in Australia, the Grey Wolf Spider closes its burrow with a plug-like trapdoor. The species can be found in south-eastern mainland Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia) and Tasmania. It prefers compacted, open and often sun-exposed habitats such as road verges and river banks, but can also be found in open woodlands and grasslands.

Comparative study of spinning field development in two species of araneophagic spiders (Araneae, Mimetidae, Australomimetus)
External studies of spider spinning fields allow us to make inferences about internal silk gland biology, including what happens to silk glands when the spider molts. Such studies often focus on adults, but juveniles can provide additional insight on spinning apparatus development and character polarity. Here we document and describe spinning fields at all stadia in two species of pirate spider (Mimetidae: Australomimetus spinosus, A. djuka). Pirate spiders nest within the ecribellate orb-building spiders (Araneoidea), but are vagrant, araneophagic members that do not build prey-capture webs. Correspondingly, they lack aggregate and flagelliform silk glands (AG, FL), specialized for forming prey-capture lines in araneoid orb webs. However, occasional possible vestiges of an AG or FL spigot, as observed in one juvenile A. spinosus specimen, are consistent with secondary loss of AG and FL. By comparing spigots from one stadium to tartipores from the next stadium, silk glands can be divided into those that are tartipore-accommodated (T-A), and thus functional during proecdysis, and those that are not (non-T-A). Though evidence was more extensive in A. spinosus, it was likely true for both species that the number of non-T-A piriform silk glands (PI) was constant (two pairs) through all stadia, while numbers of T-API rose incrementally. The two species differed in that A. spinosus had T-A minor ampullate and aciniform silk glands (MiA, AC) that were absent in A. djuka. First instars of A. djuka, however, appeared to retain vestiges of T-AMiA spigots, consistent with a plesiomorphic state in which T-AMiA (called secondary MiA) are present. T-AAC have not previously been observed in Australomimetus and the arrangement of their spigots on posterior lateral spinnerets was unlike that seen thus far in other mimetid genera. Though new AC and T-API apparently form throughout much of a spider’s ontogeny, recurring spigot/tartipore arrangements indicated that AC and PI, after functioning during one stadium, were used again in each subsequent stadium (if non-T-A) or in alternate subsequent stadia (if T-A). In A. spinosus, sexual and geographic dimorphisms involving AC were noted. Cylindrical silk gland (CY) spigots were observed in mid-to-late juvenile, as well as adult, females of both species. Their use in juveniles, however, should not be assumed and only adult CY spigots had wide openings typical of mimetids. Neither species exhibited two pairs of modified PI spigots present in some adult male mimetids.
["Pirate spider MimetidaeAustralomimetus spinneret spinning field molting silk gland tartipore"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Silk-based biomaterials and applications", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A new species of Mouse Spider (Actinopodidae, Missulena) from the Goldfields region of Western Australia
A new species of Mouse Spider (family Actinopodidae Simon, 1892), Missulena harewoodi, is described from near the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder in the Goldfields region of Western Australia. It differs from all other Missulena species by the unusual light grey colouration of the abdomen in combination with small body size and shiny carapace. A phylogenetic analysis of a fragment (658 bp) of the COI barcoding gene places M. harewoodi sp. n. in a clade with four Missulena species from the Pilbara region of Western Australia, more than 900 km away. Missulena harewoodi sp. n. is one of the many species in this genus that are currently only known from a single, or a very limited number of specimen, highlighting the paucity of fauna collections in many arid regions of Australia and the difficulties in sampling these cryptic spiders.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

The Australian Lynx Spiders (Araneae, Oxyopidae, Oxyopes) of the Godeffroy Collection, including the description of a new species
The historical Godeffroy Collection of spiders at the Centrum für Naturkunde (CeNak) in Hamburg comprises several hundred type specimens from Australia and is an essential source for arachnologists around the world. In this paper, we re-describe and illustrate the Australian Oxyopes material from this collection. Most specimens were collected by C. F. Eduard Dämel for the Godeffroy Museum and described in 1871-1881 by pioneering arachnologist Ludwig Carl Christian Koch as part of the first monograph on Australian spiders: Die Arachniden Australiens. Twelve species are redescribed and properly illustrated for the first time: Oxyopes amoenus L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes attenuatus L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes elegans L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes gratus L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes gracilipes (White, 1849), Oxyopes macilentus L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes molarius L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes mundulus L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes punctatus L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes quadrifasciatus L. Koch, 1878, Oxyopes rubicundus L. Koch, 1878, and Oxyopes variabilis L. Koch, 1878. Oxyopes lautus L. Koch, 1878 is treated as a numen dubium because both palps are lost. The new species Oxyopes godeffroyi sp. n. is described from this historical material and was probably overlooked by Koch. An identification key for these species is provided and the history of these specimens reviewed briefly. A map shows the localities of the redescribed Oxyopes species and the general distribution of the Oxyopes species in Queensland.

“High Tide or Low Tide”: Desis bobmarleyi sp. n., a new spider from coral reefs in Australia’s Sunshine State and its relative from Sāmoa (Araneae, Desidae, Desis)
Spiders of the genus Desis Walckenaer, 1837 (Araneae: Desidae) are water-adapted spiders and live in the intertidal zone on reefs, marine debris and under rocks. Here, we describe a new intertidal species from tropical Queensland and name it after Bob Marley, whose song “High Tide or Low Tide” inspired us as it lives in a “high tide low tide” habitat. We also re-describe a close morphological relative, Desis vorax L. Koch, 1872 from Sāmoa. This species was described some 150 years ago from the Godeffroy Collection which holds the oldest major collection of Australasian and Pacific spiders, now mainly hosted in the Centre of Natural History in Hamburg (CeNak). A third species, Desis hartmeyeri Simon, 1909, was described from juvenile specimens only and is considered a nomen dubium. “None but ourselves can free our minds.” Bob Marley, Redemption Song (1980).
["Taxonomy systematics new species Bob Marley intertidal spiders Australia Pacific"]

Methodological design to study the effects of heatwaves on natural plankton communities from Mediterranean vulnerable ecosystems
One Ecosystem
The Mediterranean Region is considered one of the areas most exposed to climate warming, with artificial lakes and coastal lagoons representing particularly vulnerable ecosystems, that provide essential goods and services. Amongst the extreme events linked to warming, heatwaves are of growing concern, yet their ecological effects on the functioning of Mediterranean aquatic systems remain poorly investigated. We present a methodological framework designed by the Project “a warmer Future world: effects on plankton commUnities and paThogens in Mediterranean vUlneRable Ecosystems (FUTURE)“ to study how natural plankton communities respond to abrupt and sustained thermal stress. The approach targets on entire plankton communities, from bacteria to zooplankton, integrates laboratory experiments and field monitoring activities and combines classical techniques with molecular tools to capture changes in biodiversity, food web size-structure and the occurrence of potentially pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. We selected two diverse aquatic ecosystems in the western Mediterranean as case studies: an artificial lake, an important source for drinking water and a coastal lagoon vital for fishery, both of high ecological and economic importance. By applying controlled experimental simulations with ecological relevance, the framework provides a replicable approach to investigate plankton community-level responses to heatwaves. This methodological contribution provides a comparative framework for vulnerable Mediterranean ecosystems and promotes standardised approaches to assess the impacts of extreme climate-driven events. The scalable and reproducible protocol presented here fills a critical regional knowledge gap and will support the effective management of climate-sensitive aquatic ecosystems.
["heatwaves"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Restoration of high-mountain lakes: effects on nutrient concentrations and biological communities
One Ecosystem
Lakes worldwide are under severe pressure from increasing anthropogenic impacts and global warming, creating a growing demand for restoration efforts and sustainable lake management strategies. However, there has been limited practice in restoring high-altitude lakes, particularly those under protected status. This paper focuses on passed lake restoration with special emphasis on the effects of restoration on lake ecosystems. Restoration efforts in four lakes within Rila National Park, Bulgaria, were carried out in two steps: macrophyte harvesting followed by sediment removal. These were immediately followed by a monitoring programme to evaluate the effects of human activities. The most significant effects on nutrient concentrations (PO4-P, NO3-N, TP and TN) and chlorophyll-a levels were observed one week after the restoration, with these effects diminishing one year later. Changes in bacterial metabolism were characterised by a reduction in metabolic activity, a shift from preferential utilisation of carbohydrates and polymers to an increased use of carboxylic acids and a decrease in functional richness and diversity, followed by partial recovery. Some of the changes observed in lake environments and biotic components were attributed to seasonal shifts, while others were linked to the implementation of human activities. We conclude that the initial steps of lake restoration were effective, with minimal to negligible environmental impact. However, the long-term effectiveness of restoration remains uncertain, so the monitoring programme will continue to address still unresolved questions, particularly to distinguish between seasonal and anthropogenic effects on ecosystems.
["lake restoration"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Diatoms and Algae Research", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A comparison of valuation methods for cultural ecosystem services in support of ecosystem accounting
One Ecosystem
Assigning an economic value to cultural ecosystem services is important to promote their sustainable and rational use. Valuation of such services requires a non-market approach as they are not traded on markets and, thus, have no directly observable market price. The System of Environmental-Economic Accounting – Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA-EA) aims to develop a systematic approach to value ecosystem services aligned with the valuation approach of the national accounts. However, valuing cultural services in SEEA-EA is challenging and different approaches have been developed. In this study, we compare four prominent approaches for valuing cultural ecosystem services: resource rent, travel cost method, simulated exchange value and consumer expenditure. We test and compare these methods in a case study of Ugam Chatkal State Nature National Park in Uzbekistan and examine to what degree the methods are aligned with accounting valuation principles. We note that the methods assess value in a different way and, accordingly, we find considerable differences amongst approaches in recreational value: values ranged between US$1.62M and US$65.19M annually. The lowest value was provided by the resource rent approach and the highest value by the travel cost method including consumer surplus. This latter method is not aligned with SEEA-EA accounting; however, even the three methods that are aligned with accounting principles provide quite different value estimates. The two other approaches, simulated exchange value and consumer expenditure, provided an annual value of US$24.46M and US$13.5M, respectively. We find that a resource rent method is likely to underestimate the 'true' value of the service when used for accounting and that the simulated exchange value method seems to be best aligned with the valuation needs for cultural services for SEEA-EA.
["ecosystem accounting"]
["Land Use and Ecosystem Services", "Economic and Environmental Valuation", "Urban Planning and Valuation"]

Rethinking the landslide risk assessment for socio-ecological systems using the example of the northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast
In recent years, society become much more interested in nature disasters that cause damage. The consequences of these destructive processes of a meteorological, hydrological and geological nature sometimes remain for years until the affected areas are recultivated, restored and recovered. These natural processes work together, often following each other or triggering each other to create a massive system of destruction that causes a lot of damage and often leads to death and numerous casualties.Moreover, with the changes in the global climate of the Planet, leading to the more frequent manifestation of more destructive natural phenomena - cyclones, storms, huge amounts of precipitation - lead to intensify and manifest in larger scales and volumes geological phenomena such as landslides, mudflows, mud - stone torrents, rockfalls, collapses of different character of slopes, linear and planar erosion etc.This is extremely relevant for Bulgaria, the territory for which is no exception to the manifestation of catastrophic natural phenomena. The country is located in an active orogenic zone as part of the Alpo-Himalayan tectonic belt, characterised by a complex tectonic structure, variable and diverse geological formations and rapid topographical changes.The main focus in the study is to present an advanced, multi-faceted framework for natural disaster risk assessment, integrating biodiversity and archaeological sites. Moreover, the assessments of natural risks made so far do not include sufficient attention to biotopes and archaeological and historical sites.The presented methodology is applied to landslide hazards in a pre-selected area along the northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The main goal of this paper is to identify socio-environmental risks in the studied region, as well as to construct risk profiles and visually represent both qualitative and quantitative risk levels in the socio-ecological system and biodiversity.
["natural hazards"]
["Marine and environmental studies", "Soil and Environmental Studies"]

Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis Forest Alliance
The Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forest is a unique pine forest type in Northeast China. The species grows normally under extremely adverse conditions because it has a strong tolerance to poor soils and drought. It also benefits the ecological environment significantly through water conservation, soil improvement and windbreak and sand fixation, thus making it an important pioneer species for improving site conditions. This paper systematically analyzes the geographical distribution, ecological and community characteristics, species composition and classification of Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests in China through field surveys and literature review. The main findings are:(1) Based on the dominant species of each layer, Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests can be divided into two categories of associations: Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis - Rhododendron dauricum - Carex callitrichos association and Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis + Quercus mongolica - Lespedeza bicolor - Carex caespitosa association.(2) According to sample plot surveys, a total of 134 vascular plant species, belonging to 59 families and 104 genera, were recorded in natural Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests. Amongst them were one fern species, two gymnosperm species and 131 angiosperm species.(3) The composition of life forms in Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests is dominated by terrestrial herbs, with fewer woody plants and with vines making up the smallest proportion.(4) The Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests located on the hillocks of Xingkai Lake are in decline. If the soil in this area continues to increase in wetness, this community may eventually evolve into a broad-leaved mixed forest.
["Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis"]
["Forest ecology and management", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Rhizosphere microbial community structure in the water-level-fluctuation zone under distinct waterlogging stresses
Rhizosphere microbial communities are believed to be vital in the adaption of dominant plants to strong waterlogging stress in the water-level-fluctuation zone (WLFZ). However, limited knowledge is available on their patterns in the WLFZ under distinct waterlogging stresses. Here, rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere bacterial and fungal communities derived from two typical dominant plants (Rumex acetosa L. and Oxybasis glauca) in the WLFZ of Three Gorges Reservoir, China were analysed through high-throughput sequencing. A total of 63 phyla, 173 classes, 259 orders, 287 families and 518 genera of bacteria, as well as 15 phyla, 50 classes, 124 orders, 265 families and 652 genera of fungi were detected in soils with different waterlogging stress intensities. The most dominant bacterial and fungal phyla in each sample are Proteobacteria and Ascomycota, respectively. Bacteria and fungi in soil may increase their microbial ɑ diversity under the intensity of waterlogging stress to cope with this stress. LEfSe analysis showed that the impact of waterlogging stress on fungal community structure in soil is more prominent than that on bacteria. Key fungal biomarkers can be found in each soil sample, but in many samples, key bacterial biomarkers cannot be found. The metabolic pathways related to aerobic respiration type I and de novo biosynthesis of adenosine ribonucleotides dominate in the microbial community. Redundancy analysis revealed that the structure of rhizosphere microbial communities in different plants is significantly influenced by environmental factors. This study provides a theoretical basis for understanding the relationship between plants and their second genome (rhizosphere microorganisms) in extreme habitats, such as the WLFZ of large reservoirs.
["Three Gorges Reservoir"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Plant responses to water stress", "Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis"]

Chlorophyll fluorescence changes, as plant early state indicator under different water salinity regimes on the invasive macrophyte Elodea canadensis (Michx., 1803)
Analysis of the photosynthetic apparatus provides information on the physiological state of plants. The changes of metabolites in plant cells analysed with the pulsed chlorophyll fluorometer make it possible to determine these changes in plant cells even in the presence of insignificant cell damage. The possible effects of different salinity levels, 0.584, 1.461, 2.922 and 5.844 PSU (denoting Practical Salinity Unit) on the fluorescence properties of the pigment complexes of the aquatic invasive E. canadensis photosynthetic apparatus were investigated. Information about E. canadensis macrophyte photosynthetic systems (PSI and PSII) was obtained. After a prolonged impact, the results indicate that high salinity levels in substrates 2.922 and 5.844 PSU seriously affect plant photosynthetic apparatus inhibition. The decrease in ∆Fv/Fm΄ values at 2.922 and 5.844 PSU indicates general deterioration in macrophytes' physiological state. In the post-stress period, photosynthesis intensified. An interesting feature was noted: a low water salinity level (0.584) stimulates chlorophyll formation and increases the FvFm parameter. The research revealed the influence of salinity levels in the substrate on the photosynthesis processes in plants. The PSII system of submerged macrophytes responds rapidly to high salinity levels, probably due to the inhibition of protein synthesis. These data provide information for further bio-diagnosis of overall plant health and prediction of exposure levels, as well as the ability to make predictions of invasive plant growth and spread. The invasion of this plant macrophyte causes the most serious concern in Europe nowadays.
["invasive species"]
["Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Algal biology and biofuel production", "Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms"]

Cryoconites as biogeochemical markers of anthropogenic impact in high mountain regions: analysis of polyaromatic pollutants in soil-like bodies
The globalisation and omnidirectional character of anthropogenic processes has challenged scientists around the world to estimate the harmful effects of these processes on ecosystems and human health. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is one the most infamous group of contaminants, originated both from natural and anthropogenic processes. They could transport to high latitudes and altitudes through atmospheric long-distance transfer and further enter ecosystems of these vulnerable regions by deposition on terrestrial surfaces. An interesting object for tracking transboundary contamination processes in high mountain ecosystems is called cryoconite. Cryoconite, a dark-coloured supraglacial sediment which is abundant in polar and mountain environments, is considered as a storage of various pollutants, including PAHs. Thus, it may pose a risk for local human health and ecosystem through short-distance transfer. Studied cryoconite sediments were collected at the surface of Skhelda and Garabashi glaciers, Central Caucasus high-mountain region, as well as mudflow, moraine material and local soils at the Baksan Gorge in order to examine levels of their contamination. We analysed the content of 15 priority polyaromatic compounds from the US EPA list and used the method of calculation of PAHs isomer ratios with the purpose of identifying their source. To estimate their potential toxicity, Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) equivalents were calculated. Maximum concentration was defined for NAP (84 ng×g-1), PHE (40 ng×g-1) and PYR (47 ng×g-1), with the minimum concentration for ANT (about 1 ng×g-1). The most polluted material is a cryoconite from Garabashi glacier because of local anthropogenic activities and long-distance transfer. High-molecular weight PAHs are dominated in PAHs composition of almost all samples. The most common sources of PAHs in studied materials are combustion processes and mixed pyrolytic/petrogenic origin. Toxicity levels of separate PAHs did not exceed the maximum permissible threshold concentrations values in most cases. However, the sum of PAHs in BaP equivalents exceed the threshold values in all samples, in some of them more than twice.
["Central Caucasus"]
["Toxic Organic Pollutants Impact", "Atmospheric chemistry and aerosols", "Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances research"]

Morphological features, productivity and pollution state of abandoned agricultural soils in the Russian Arctic (Yamal Region)
Recently, questions about the return of the concept of Arctic agriculture in order to promote sustainable development of the northern regions and ensure food security have been raised more often. The re-involvement of previously-used and abandoned soils into agricultural usage can provide an essential contribution for the development of the Arctic regions. We conducted a comprehensive research of soils with different levels of abandonment in the central part of the Yamal Region (Russia) and compared their morphological features, chemical and physical properties, fertile qualities and the level of contamination with heavy and trace metals to background soils of the region. It has been noted that there are no evident features of cryoturbation processes in the profiles of abandoned agricultucal soils and regular changes in the redox regime, as a consequence of the presence of reductimorphic spots in the soil profiles, have been recorded. Soil organic matter (SOM) stock in the topsoil of abandoned soils is estimated as medium and has a similar level to the stocks of total organic matter in the agricultural soils of the Arctic circumpolar region (Norway, Sweden, and Finland). Statistically significant differences in the content of nutrients between abandoned and background soils were recorded which indicates stability of the soil nutritional state during different abandoned states. Particularly notable are the differences between the content of available forms of phosphorus. The results of the study revealed significant differences between soils of various periods of abandonment and the background soils of the Yamal Region. Abandoned soils can be used for ground and greenhouse agriculture, these soils having a high level of fertility and are not limited for use in agriculture by the level of contamination with heavy and trace metals. According to the character of trace metal contamination, abandoned and background soils are evaluated as uncontaminated on the base of Zc and Igeo indices values. Reuse of the previously abandoned soils can undoubtedly become the basis for increasing agricultural production and ensuring food security in the Yamal Region.
["postagrogenic soils"]
["Indigenous Studies and Ecology", "Climate change and permafrost", "Arctic and Russian Policy Studies"]

Floristic composition and community structure along the elevational gradient of Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park in Negros Oriental, Philippines
Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park (BTLNP) is one of the protected areas on the Island of Negros Oriental which is enormously rich in biodiversity due to different Lowland types formed along its elevation gradient. This study was conducted to better understand the composition and diversity of plant species in the natural park to improve conservation and management efforts of these remaining forests which are currently under threat from eco-tourism and other anthropomorphic influences. Within the 18 randomly distributed nested plots, a total of 351 species of plants were recorded. Of these, 183 species were trees, 54 herbs, 51 shrubs, 41 pteridophytes and 22 vines. The result of hierarchical cluster analysis showed differences in plant composition along the elevation gradient. There were 30 (9%) threatened species (vulnerable, endangered and critically endangered) and most of which were found in the submontane Lowland. Furthermore, the species diversity increases from lowland to sub-montane and eventually decreases towards montane Lowland. These results not only indicate the importance of BTLNP, but also highlights the submontane as a special area of concern due to the higher concentration of threatened and endemic species.
["plant conservation"]
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Data on and methodology for measurements of microclimate and matter dynamics in transition zones between forest and adjacent arable land
["Edge effects"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest Management and Policy"]

Plant Checklist of the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, the oldest forest reserve in Malaysia established in 1900, lies in the center of Kuala Lumpur, the capital city. Over time it has been reduced from 17.5 ha to 9.37 ha but still retains important biodiversity. Its lowland equatorial rain forest has never been logged and tall emergent species to 35 m tall and 124 cm diameter persist. Since 1900, 499 plant species (2 lycophytes, 25 ferns, 39 monocots and 433 dicots) have been recorded. This year-long survey refound 425 species, including the rare Tarenna rudis (Rubiaceae), a local endemic found only in Selangor state. The multi-layered structure of lowland dipterocarp forest (16 Diperocarpaceae species were recorded) is intact. However, with diminishing size, the edge effect is more pronounced with secondary forest species, from trees to herbs, becoming established. In 2009, declared as the KL Forest Eco Park, it is important for its biodiversity, history, accessibility to the public for recreation (forest walks), scientific study, education (natural history, bird-watching, etc), as well as serving as a green lung in the bustling city. Baseline data, such as this survey, enables scientific management that will maintain the forest structure and biodiversity.
["Inventory"]
["Wood and Agarwood Research", "Forest Ecology and Conservation"]

Boletina kowarzi Stackelberg, 1943 (Diptera: Mycetophilidae): first Central European record after nearly 150 years from the Bavarian Alps
Alpine Entomology
Boletina kowarzi Stackelberg, 1943 (Diptera: Mycetophilidae) is recorded from Central Europe for the first time in nearly 150 years. The species was originally described based on a single specimen from Thuringia, Germany, collected in 1877, and has not been reported from Central Europe since. New material collected in the Bavarian Alps, Germany, has enabled a redescription and updated diagnosis of the species. The morphology of the male terminalia is documented in detail and illustrated together with the general habitus. Diagnostic characters confirm that B. kowarzi belongs to the species group centred around B. dubia, characterised by a two-branched gonostylus with elongated branches, but it is distinguished from related species by the structure of the inner gonostylar branch and the arrangement of spines on the cerci. DNA barcode data (COI), including diagnostic molecular combination (DMC), reveal pronounced genetic divergence between B. kowarzi and other examined congeners, supporting its distinct species status. The new specimens were collected in an old-growth forest remnant in the Bavarian Alps, characterised by abundant dead wood and a rich community of wood-inhabiting fungi. The discovery suggests that the species may persist in relic montane forests, although its ecological requirements remain poorly understood.

Description of female and early stages of Hispaniodirphia lemaireiana (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae) with notes on its ecology
Alpine Entomology
Hispaniodirphia lemaireiana Rougerie & Herbin, 2006 is an endemic saturniid moth restricted to the montane pine forests of Hispaniola. Here we provide the first description of the female and the first detailed accounts of the larva (final instar) and pupa. Larvae were observed in Sierra de Bahoruco National Park (Dominican Republic) at 1400–2000 m a.s.l., feeding on the endemic pine Pinus occidentalis Sw. Pupae were recovered from the soil beneath host trees, without a cocoon, at depths up to 10 cm. Female variation is documented and compared with Hispaniodirphia plana Lemaire, 1999. These data represent the first host-plant association reported for Hispaniodirphia and contribute to the biological knowledge of Hemileucinae in Caribbean montane ecosystems.
["Dominican Republic"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Three new species of Diadegma Förster, 1869 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Campopleginae) from the Swiss Alps
Alpine Entomology
Although Europe is the best-explored continent entomologically, major gaps remain, especially in alpine regions and within taxonomically challenging “dark taxa”, such as parasitoid wasps. I describe three new species of Darwin wasps from the Swiss Alps: Diadegma (Nythobia) davidmarquesi sp. nov., D. (Nythobia) mirum sp. nov., and D. (Nythobia) orophilum sp. nov. These species were discovered during a revision of Swiss natural history collections and are diagnosed using morphometric characters, microsculpture, and colour patterns, with comparisons to type material. One species appears to have a wider, possibly boreoalpine distribution, whereas the other two are currently known only from montane to alpine habitats in Switzerland. These findings increase the number of Diadegma species described from the European Alps to 13 and highlight this region as an important reservoir of undescribed Darwin wasp diversity. They further underscore the need for continued integrative taxonomic work, combining museum revision, targeted alpine sampling, and the collection of host data, to more fully document the hidden diversity and biogeographic importance of Europe’s alpine insect fauna.
["Alpha-taxonomy"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Rhantus procul sp. nov., a new diving beetle from Central Sulawesi – sister to a species from Sri Lanka (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Colymbetinae)
The diving beetle Rhantus procul sp. nov. is described from around 2,000 m a.s.l. at Mount Pompangeo in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. Besides Rhantus suturalis (W.S. Macleay, 1825) it is the second species of the genus recorded from Sulawesi. Altogether nine species of the genus are now known from Indonesia. The median lobe of the new species is very similar to Rhantus interclusus (Walker, 1858), endemic to the highlands of Sri Lanka, but the species can be easily distinguished by body size, coloration of the pronotum and the slightly different curvature of median lobe.
["Cloud forest"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Species concepts in the psyllid genus Camarotoscena (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) associated with Populus (Salicaceae)
The temperate Palaearctic genus Camarotoscena (Liviidae, Liviinae) is revised to contain 10 species confirming previous morphology-based species concepts. The results of the molecular analyses were only partly conclusive, as the barcoding genes used (COI and cytb) did not provide sufficient resolution to recognise all species. Both markers showed no differences between the taxa in two species pairs: C. fulgidipennis – C. hoberlandti and C. speciosa – C. subrubescens, while cytb also failed to distinguish C. trjapitzini from C. fulgidipennis – C. hoberlandti. Morphological characters of fifth instar immatures, available for half of the species, supported the species diagnosed by adult characters. Five new synonymies are proposed: Camarotoscena subrubescens (Flor 1861b) = C. ujenci Klimaszewski (1982), syn. nov.; Camarotoscena bianchii Loginova (1975b) = C. pamirica Baeva (1983a), syn. nov., = C. wulingshanica Li (2011), syn. nov., = C. wutaishanica Li (2011), syn. nov., = C. xinjiangica Li (2011), syn. nov. The previously unknown female of C. lauta is diagnosed and its terminalia are illustrated. Illustrated identification keys are provided for the adults and, where known, for the fifth instar immatures. New country records are provided for C. fulgidipennis (India: Ladakh), C. hoberlandti (India: Ladakh), C. lauta (Turkey: Ankara) and C. trjapitzini (Iran: Tehran, Yazd; Spain). The record of C. hoberlandti from Jordan is a misidentification of C. trjapitzini. All species are, as far as known, narrowly oligophagous on Populus spp. (Salicaceae), and the immatures induce leaf roll galls.

Endemism and hidden diversity of Habrophlebia, Eaton, 1881 in Algeria’s Northeastern Mountains (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae)
Northeastern Algeria has recently emerged as a hotspot of freshwater biodiversity and a refugium for both mountainous cold stenothermic and Afrotropical relict species. Intensive surveys of mayflies uncovered striking cryptic diversity within the genus Habrophlebia Eaton, 1881 (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae). By integrating molecular and morphological evidence, we describe five new species (H. callensis sp. nov., H. ghora sp. nov., H. seybouse sp. nov., H. annaba sp. nov., and H. edough sp. nov.). Our findings increase the number of recognised Habrophlebia species in the Maghreb from nine to fourteen, all of which are endemic to the region. The results further suggest that northeastern Algeria constitutes a major diversification centre for Habrophlebia within the Maghreb and, more broadly, across the Mediterranean basin. Furthermore, distributional patterns support an east–west divide within the Maghreb, most likely shaped by distinct Quaternary glacial refugia. Finally, we provide an updated identification key to the nymphs of Habrophlebia species in the western Palaearctic.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

The alpine brown lacewing insect Hemerobius schedli (Neuroptera, Hemerobiidae) in Switzerland
The presence of the rare alpine insect Hemerobius schedli Hölzel, 1970 was confirmed with preserved museum specimens in Basel and London. In addition, live specimens were collected during light trapping in and around the Swiss National Park in the Engadin Valley in the summer of 2024 and by beating in the Visper Valley in 2025.
["Alps"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

The supposedly unmistakable mistaken: Carcina ingridmariae sp. nov., a surprising example of overlooked diversity from Europe and the Near East (Lepidoptera, Peleopodidae)
Carcina ingridmariae sp. nov. is described from the eastern Mediterranean region (Greece, Croatia, Cyprus, Türkiye). The species differs strikingly from the so far only representative of the genus in the Western Palearctic, C. quercana (Fabricius, 1775), in the DNA barcode and the male and female genitalia, but less conspicuously in habitual characteristics. All diagnostically relevant characters are figured and discussed. The usefulness of comprehensive genetic inventories for recognizing species that have been inadequately considered because they are regarded as unmistakable is discussed.

Updated checklist of mayflies from northeastern Algeria with biogeographical and ecological insights (Insecta, Ephemeroptera)
Mayflies (Ephemeroptera) play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and energy transfer between ecotones, making them key indicators of freshwater ecosystem health. As part of a broader study conducted between 2018 and 2022, a survey of rivers and streams across four regions in northeastern Algeria recorded 15 mayfly species, contributing to an updated regional checklist and mapping the distribution of 36 species. Notably, ten species were putatively new to science, with nine awaiting formal description. The survey also documented two rarely recorded burrowing mayfly species and one interstitial species in North Africa, whose mass emergences serve as valuable bioindicators of riverine ecological integrity. Their close association with sediment or hyporheic zones, combined with a high sensitivity to environmental stressors, makes them effective for cost-efficient, rapid assessments of contaminants in fluvial systems. This study advances knowledge of mayfly taxonomy, biogeography, and ecology in the region while providing essential data for freshwater conservation efforts.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new Dichotrachelus Stierlin from Val Grande (Piemonte, Italy) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) with comments on biogeography and evolution of high alpine species of the genus
Dichotrachelus sonjae sp. nov. was discovered in a cold north-exposed scree slope in the Togano ridge area in Piemonte North of Val Grande. It is described and compared with the most similar species. Based on morphology and molecular data presented here, Dichotrachelus lepontinus Osella, 1971, distributed from Piemonte in Italy (Monte Rosa) eastwards to the Misox mountains of Switzerland, is its sister species. Dichotrachelus meregallii Osella, 1971 is another closely related species. Phylogeographic and biogeographical considerations on the development of that particularly lithophilous and high alpine living group of Dichotrachelus are presented.
["Cyclominae"]

A review of Limbodessus Guignot, 1939 from New Guinea, with description of eight new tropical-alpine species (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Bidessini)
The genus Limbodessus Guignot, 1939 from New Guinea is reviewed. Eight new species are described from the Central Mountain Range of New Guinea, from altitudes of 1,800 up to 3,500 m above sea level: Limbodessus aipo sp. nov., L. aldente sp. nov., L. elit sp. nov., L. habbema sp. nov., L. juliana sp. nov., L. konoensis sp. nov., L. paniai sp. nov., and L. wilhelmina sp. nov. Limbodessus skalei Hendrich, Surbakti & Balke, 2020, described from Waigeo Island, is recorded for the first time for New Guinea. All 13 species are illustrated. They can be separated from each other by size, body shape, dorsal coloration, punctation of dorsal surface, but predominantly by the form of the male and female antennomeres and the form of male genitalia. A modified key is presented, and the habitats of most species are illustrated in detail.
["Alpine New Guinea"]

Observation of a cross-subfamily male-male mating attempt of grasshoppers in Kazakhstan (Orthoptera, Acrididae)
Same-sex and interspecific sexual behavior have been documented in arthropods, but records remain very scarce. We report a mating attempt of a male Dociostaurus kraussi (Ingenitzky, 1897) (Gomphocerinae) and a male of Oedaleus decorus (Germar, 1825) (Oedipodinae), both grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acrididae), from the region of the Dzungarian Alatau Mountains in Kazakhstan. A Disc3D scan showed that the cerci of the D. kraussi male clearly connect to the external genitalia of the O. decorus male, but we could not ascertain if the genitalia were inserted or if any sperm was transferred. We consider erroneous recognition the most likely explanation but discuss other potential reasons, concluding that much remains to be learned about the highly complex reproductive behavior of acridid grasshoppers.
["Dociostaurus"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Agriculture and Biological Studies"]

Discovery of Anthophora onosmarum Morawitz, 1876 in Europe (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Anthophora onosmarum is a poorly known bee species described from the Caucasus (Georgia). New fieldwork has revealed that the species is present in Bulgaria and Greece, and is also widespread across Turkey, predominantly on the Anatolian plateau. New behavioural data shows that A. onosmarum is likely narrowly oligolectic on the plant genus Onosma (Boraginaceae), and is capable of buzzing flowers to release pollen. This finding illustrates the growing trend of overlooked bee species with more Caucasian, Anatolian, or even Middle Eastern distributions occurring in under-surveyed mountainous parts of the Southern Balkans.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Das Steppenelement Adosomus roridus (Pallas, 1781) in der Schweiz und erste Dokumentation der Entwicklung in Artemisia absinthium L. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae)
Überprüfte Sammlungsexemplare und aktuelle Funde des besonders selten gefundenen und nur äusserst lokal vorkommenden Adosomus roridus aus der Schweiz führten zur Entdeckung von Eiern, Larven und Puppen in einer neuen Wirtspflanze Artemisia absinthium L. in der subalpinen Felsensteppe in Zermatt. Fotos der Habitate, der Pflanze und der Präimaginalstadien werden gezeigt und die Funde werden vorgestellt und diskutiert.
["ecology"]
["Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

DNA barcoding reveals a new cryptic species of Denisia Hübner, 1825 (Lepidoptera, Oecophoridae) from the south-western Alps
A new species of concealer moths (Oecophoridae), Denisia cryptica sp. nov., is described from specimens collected in the south-western Alps (Italy, France). It differs from similar congeneric taxa of the Denisia stipella species-group by a combined pattern of colour and markings of the forewing upperside, the colour of the head, particularly the yellow second segment of the labial palpi, and by highly divergent DNA barcode (cytochrome c-oxidase subunit 1) sequences. Male and female genitalia are like several other species, with only subtle diagnostic characters. Adult and partially genitalia of D. cryptica sp. nov. and the closest European species are shown for comparison. Finally, a complete checklist of European species of Denisia is added.
["Cottian Alps"]

The enigmatic robber fly Choerades mouchai Hradský, 1985 redescribed and recorded from the Alps (Diptera, Asilidae)
Records of Choerades mouchai Hradský, 1985, are reported from Switzerland. These are the first records of the species published since its description and extend its known range to include the Alps. Previously, it was known only from parts of the Carpathian Mountain chain in Slovakia and Romania. A redescription of the male is provided, accompanied by photographs of diagnostic features, including the terminalia, and images of the entire insect. A table listing morphological differences between the males of Ch. mouchai, Ch. femorata and Ch. marginata is presented. The Choerades fauna of Switzerland is discussed, as is the information available about the ecology of Ch. mouchai.
["Robberfly"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new osmiine bee with a spectacular geographic disjunction: Hoplitis (Hoplitis) onosmaevae sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Anthophila, Megachilidae)
A new osmiine bee species, Hoplitis (Hoplitis) onosmaevae sp. nov. (Megachilidae), is described. So far, this species is exclusively known from the Mercantour National Park in the southwestern French Alps and from mountainous ranges in Turkey and northern Iraq, two areas separated by at least 2000 km. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes revealed that H. onosmaevae is closely related to H. adunca (Panzer, 1798), H. benoisti (Alfken, 1935) and H. manicata (Morice, 1901). Hoplitis onosmaevae is presumably narrowly oligolectic and harvests pollen only on flowers of Onosma L. (Boraginaceae). It has a particularly long proboscis, which is probably an adaptation to collect nectar from the long-tubed flowers of this plant genus. The females collect pollen by buzzing the Onosma flowers, a rare behavior in megachilid bees. The species nests in insect burrows in dead wood, similar to H. adunca and H. manicata but unlike other closely related representatives of the subgenus Hoplitis, suggesting a single origin of nesting in dead wood and hollow stems in this lineage. In France, H. onosmaevae inhabits alpine steppe-like habitats close to forests and appears to be extremely local, since only two populations are currently known. The conservation status of this extremely rare bee species in Europe is discussed.

Distribution of the invasive ambrosia beetle Anisandrus maiche (Coleoptera, Scolytinae) in Switzerland and first record in Europe of its ambrosia fungus Ambrosiella cleistominuta
Ambrosia beetles are highly successful as invaders because they are often transported internationally with wood packaging and other wood products and because their inbreeding mating systems facilitates establishment of invading populations. In 2022, two independent insect surveys in canton Ticino (southern Switzerland) revealed the widespread occurrence of the invasive ambrosia beetle Anisandrus maiche (Kurentzov, 1941) from southern to central-upper Ticino. This species is native to east Asia and has previously been found as a non-native invasive species in the United States, Canada, western Russia, Ukraine and, in 2021, in northern Italy. Here, we present the results of several trapping studies using different trap types (bottle traps, funnel traps and Polytrap intercept traps) and attractants and a map of the distribution of the species. In total, 715 specimens of A. maiche, all female, were trapped, and the identity of selected individuals was confirmed by morphological and molecular identification based on three mitochondrial and nuclear markers (COI, 28S and CAD). Trap samples from early April to early September 2022 in intervals of two to four weeks showed that flights of A. maiche occurred mainly from June to mid-August. Isolation of fungal associates of A. maiche from beetles trapped alive revealed the presence of four fungal species, including the ambrosia fungus Ambrosiella cleistominuta, the known mutualist of A. maiche. The identity of A. cleistominuta was confirmed by comparing DNA sequences of its nuclear, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene with reference sequences in NCBI and BOLDSYSTEMS. This represents the first record of A. cleistominuta in Europe. Of the other fungal associates isolated from A. maiche in Ticino, Fusarium lateritium is of note as there is a possibility that A. maiche could act as a vector of this plant pathogen. We highlight several research needs that should be addressed to gain insight into the potential impact of these non-native species and to overcome problems with heteroplasmy in COI sequences in studies of invasion and population genetics of ambrosia beetles.
["Bark and ambrosia beetles"]

The Psyllinae (Hemiptera, Psyllidae) from Gunung Kinabalu (Malaysia, Sabah)
Five species of Psyllinae are recognised from Gunung Kinabalu, all previously unknown, and are formally described and named: Cacopsylla graciliforceps sp. nov., C. kinabaluensis sp. nov., C. myrsines sp. nov., C. photiniae sp. nov. and Psylla cirrita sp. nov. Another species similar to P. cirrita remains undescribed due to lack of sufficient material. Two Philippine species closely related to C. kinabaluensis are transferred to Cacopsylla as Cacopsylla aranetae (Miyatake, 1972), comb. nov. and Cacopsylla bakeri (Crawford, 1919), comb. nov. (both from Psylla). Three of the Cacopsylla species probably represent Palaearctic faunal elements (Cacopsylla graciliforceps, C. myrsines and C. photiniae). Host information is available only for Cacopsylla myrsines and C. photiniae, viz. Myrsine dasyphylla (Primulaceae) and Photinia davidiana (Rosaceae), respectively. Myrsine has not been previously reported as host genus of Psylloidea. The five new species bring the number of known Psylloidea species from Gunung Kinabalu to 22. The biogeographic relationships found in the flora, i.e. Oriental elements predominate at lower altitudes, and Himalayan and Australian elements are dominant at altitudes above 2500 m, are reflected in the psyllid fauna (Oriental 4 spp.; Australian 13 spp., Himalayan 3 spp.; unknown 2 spp.). Of the 22 species known from Gunung Kinabalu, 18 are only known from there. This high number is probably only partly due to endemism and is partly due to insufficient knowledge of the psyllid fauna of Borneo and of the tropics in general.
["Sternorrhyncha"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Parvapila lyncispinnae new genus and new species (Coleoptera, Melandryidae) from South Africa
The first Orchesiini of South Africa, Parvapila lyncispinnae gen. nov. and sp. nov., is described. Specimens were collected at the foot of the Langeberg Range and of the Kogelberg, mountains of Western Cape. Individuals were collected by sifting soil litter in Afromontane forests, an endemic vegetation community of Afrotropical mountainous areas.
["False darkling beetles"]

Zu Biologie und Identität von Donus proximus (Capiomont, 1876) comb. nov. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Hyperinae)
Anlässlich einer Exkursion in die Gebirgszüge im Norden Portugals konnten Imagines und Larven der wenig bekannten Donus-Art vom Doldenblütigen Heidekraut (Erica umbellata L.) auf submontaner Lage gesammelt werden. Bisher waren Heidekrautgewächse (Ericaceae) als Wirtspflanzen für Hyperinae gänzlich unbekannt. Eine durchgeführte Zucht bestätigte diese Wirtspflanzenbindung. Die nomenklatorische Änderung Donus proximus (Capiomont, 1876), comb. nov. von Brachypera wird eingeführt, Imago, Larve und der Kokon werden vorgestellt, und das Habitat wird charakterisiert.
["larval instars"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Description of the larva of Isoperla orobica Ravizza, 1975 (Plecoptera, Perlodidae), with notes on ecology and distribution in Switzerland
The larva of Isoperla orobica Ravizza, 1975, an endemic Alpine species, is described with information about the distribution and ecology in Switzerland. New barcodes were generated to support the association between life stages. The species is associated with springs and spring brooklets. In Switzerland, the species occurs almost exclusively on the southern slopes of the Alps in the cantons Valais, Ticino and Grisons.
["Stoneflies"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology"]

Anchonidium selvanum sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Molytinae) from northern Portugal
The fourth species of Anchonidium sensu stricto from Western Europe is described, photographed and compared with its congeners; an updated key of the genus is given. The habitat in the northern mountain chains in Portugal in the native Quercus mountain forests is characterized and illustrated.
["Molytinae"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Taxonomic study of the alpine carabid beetle Nebria (Falcinebria) taketoi Habu, 1962 (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
The carabid beetle Nebria taketoi Habu, 1962 is endemic to the high-altitude mountains of Honshu, Japan; due to its rarity, it is one of the least taxonomically studied species among Japanese Nebria. This study taxonomically revised N. taketoi based on morphological comparisons, mainly of the endophallus in males, and geometric morphometrics of the pronotum, a taxonomically useful external character. Specimens previously identified as N. taketoi were found to belong to at least two species: N. taketoi, with a currently confirmed distribution in the northern Hida Mountains (type locality: Mikurigaike, Mount Tateyama), and N. kobushicola sp. nov. from the Okuchichibu and Yatsugatake mountains (type locality: Mount Kobushigatake). Species identities in populations from other localities could not be determined, as male specimens for endophallus examinations were unavailable. However, some populations may consist of species distinct from N. taketoi and N. kobushicola, based on their distribution and morphometric features. Based on comparative morphology of the endophallus, N. kobushicola shares features more similar to N. niohozana Bates, 1883 and N. dichotoma Sasakawa, 2020 than to N. taketoi.
["endophallus"]

First report of Cloeon vanharteni Gattolliat & Sartori, 2008 (Baetidae, Ephemeroptera) in the Maghreb
Cloeon vanharteni Gattolliat & Sartori, 2008 was newly discovered in the framework of our study of Ephemeroptera in the Draa basin, located in the southern region of the High Atlas in Morocco. This discovery is rather unexpected as the species was never reported outside the Arabian Peninsula and Levant; it is thus the first record for the Maghreb. The identification was based on morphological evidence and confirmed by the mitochondrial COI barcode.

Are yellow dung flies domesticated cow dung specialists?
The theory of niche differentiation implies some extent of specialization of species with regard to key resources, notably food. Coprophagous (dung-eating) insect larvae play a critical role in the decomposition of livestock dung in modern and traditional agricultural grasslands. The yellow dung fly (Scathophaga stercoraria L.; Diptera: Scathophagidae) is one of the largest, most common and abundant dung decomposers on pastures in cold-temperate regions across the entire northern hemisphere. As this fly is often associated with domesticated cattle or dairy cows, which are commonly kept for human nutrition worldwide (beef, milk, cheese, etc.), it is sometimes suspected to be a cow dung specialist. However, yellow dung flies are regularly active on and around other dung types, and must have reproduced on dung of wild vertebrates before the domestication of cattle. We therefore experimentally studied the performance of yellow dung fly larvae on dung of various large domestic vs. wild mammals (cow, horse, wild boar, red deer) in the laboratory in Switzerland. Larval performance in terms of juvenile survival, egg-to-adult development time, growth rate, and final adult body size, the major life history indicators of individual reproductive success, did not vary greatly among the various dung types tested. Thus, yellow dung flies can successfully reproduce on multiple types of mammal (vertebrate) dung, wild and domestic, and are therefore dung generalists rather than specialists. We conclude that yellow dung flies are common in European low- and highlands because they could plastically shift to dung of common herbivorous livestock after their domestication without losing the ability to reproduce on dung of common wild mammals.
["Behavioral Ecology"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

A review of the Chrysolina species – subgenus Stichoptera Motschulsky, 1860 – in Switzerland, with notes on distribution, conservation and preimaginal stages (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae)
The species of the subgenus Stichoptera occurring in Switzerland are revised, based on a combination of literature data, old museum specimens and recent material. Four species, one with two subspecies, Chrysolina kuesteri (Helliesen, 1912), Ch. latecincta latecincta (Demaison, 1896), Ch. latecincta norica (Holdhaus, 1914), Ch. rossia (Illiger, 1802) and Ch. sanguinolenta (Linnaeus, 1758) are confirmed to occur in Switzerland, while Ch. gypsophilae (Küster, 1845) has to be excluded from the Swiss fauna due to insufficient evidence. Errors and unclarities in the older literature are discussed. Ch. kuesteri was found abundantly in central Valais, allowing some notes on its larval biology. Larvae of the alpine Ch. latecincta are also illustrated, along with notes on its habitat and some past and present distribution records. Illustrations for all Swiss members of the subgenus, as well as distribution maps with all confirmed records, are provided.
["Chrysomelinae"]

New species of Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge from New Guinea (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae): a never-ending story of diversity
Investigations of material collected partly in 1999 and mainly between 2006 and 2016 in New Guinea, mostly along the high, central mountain chain of the island, further increased our knowledge of the diversity of the genus Labiobaetis Novikova & Kluge on this island. Previously, 37 species were reported from New Guinea. We have identified six new species using a combination of morphology and genetic analysis (COI). They are described and illustrated based on their larvae. Five of the six new species belong to the group petersorum, which is endemic to the island. Additionally, Labiobaetis xeniolus Lugo-Ortiz & McCafferty is also assigned to this group. The morphological characterisation of the group petersorum is enhanced, and a key to all species of this group is provided. Complementary descriptions and remarks to the morphology of known species of the group petersorum are provided. Additionally, a genetic analysis (COI) including most species and several additional Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) of the group petersorum is discussed. One of the new species belongs to the group vitilis. The morphological characterization of this group is slightly enhanced, and the obtained COI sequence was added to the genetic analysis of the group petersorum. The total number of Labiobaetis species worldwide is augmented to 162.

﻿Prey handling and feeding habits of the snail predator Licinus depressus (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Carabid beetles of the tribe Licinini use their asymmetric mandibles to open the shells of land snails. Prey handling of large snails has been described in a few Licinini species. We observed for the first time how a male of Licinus depressus (Paykull, 1790) opens the shells of small prey snails (Chondrina arcadica (Reinhardt, 1881)) and eats their soft bodies. The beetle holds the conical snail shell with its forelegs and breaks the wall of the right-hand coiled shell. In doing so, the beetle rotates the shell counter-clockwise opening it stepwise along the dorsal part of the whorls towards the apex. After some bites, the beetle interrupts the opening process and begins to feed on the snail’s soft tissue. Then the beetle continues to break up the shell, shortly after which there is another feeding phase. The alternating sequence of shell breaking and feeding ends after 2 to 2.5 whorls when the beetle can no longer hold the prey’s remaining intact shell. We compare this previously unknown way of prey handling with the reported predatory behaviour in large snails by other Licinini species. Our observations confirm the high plasticity of predatory behaviour in Licinini beetles.
["Insect"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Three alien bark and ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) new to Switzerland
Identifying alien species is important to ensure the early detection of biological invasions and survey shifts in species distributions in the context of global change. Here, we report on three alien bark and ambrosia beetles newly detected in Switzerland: Cyclorhipidion distinguendum (Eggers, 1930), C. pelliculosum (Eichhoff, 1878), and Hypothenemus eruditus (Westwood, 1834). These species were recorded for the first time during a comprehensive survey of saproxylic beetles accross major forest types and along an altitudinal gradient during the entire growing season in the southern Alps, in the canton of Ticino. Their local abundance and number of occurrences accross different lowland forest habitats, including alluvial forests of national importance, indicates that all three species are already naturalized. Given their polyphagy, it is likely that all three species will become more extensively distributed across Switzerland, with a yet unknown environmental impact.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

The female of Megacraspedus peslieri Huemer & Karsholt, 2018 (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae), a new case of brachyptery in alpine Lepidoptera
Megacraspedus peslieri was described from the Pyrenees in 2018 and subsequently also discovered at a few localities in the northern Cottian Alps (Italy). The hitherto unknown female was collected in these localities after a targeted search. As with some other representatives of the genus, the female is flightless and shows a strikingly strong reduction of the wings (brachyptery). Whereas the forewings are significantly shortened and narrowed, the hindwings are strongly reduced. Both the external morphology and the genitalia of the female are described and illustrated in detail, together with previously unpublished photographs of live adults of both sexes. The identification of specimens from the Alps as well as of the male and female were determined by means of a DNA barcode comparison with the holotype.
["Alps"]

﻿Inventory and pattern of distribution of mayflies (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) in the Draa river basin, southern Morocco
The Draa river basin is located south of the High Atlas Mountain rangee in Morocco. The Ephemeroptera (mayflies) fauna of its three sub-basins: the High, Middle, and Lower Draa are poorly known. This study contributes to the knowledge of Ephemeroptera and its distribution in relation to environmental parameters in this area. The larvae of Ephemeropteran species were collected during six field campaigns in 17 sites using a Surber sampler. A total of thirteen species belonging to ten genera and five families were identified. among which seven taxa were recorded for the first time in the southern Atlas area: Baetis maurus, Baetis rhodani, Cheleocloeon dimorphicum, Cloeon simile, Procloeon stagnicola, Labiobaetis neglectus and Oligoneuriopsis skhounate. The limits of distribution of most species can be explained by the increase in water temperature and electrical conductivity especially at lower altitudes.
["Bioindicators"]

Eryngiofaga perrara sp. nov. (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) from Mount Pilatus (Obwalden), a new species of a genus previously unknown from Switzerland or the Alps
Eryngiofaga perrara sp. nov. is described, diagnosed and illustrated from two adult specimens found on Mount Pilatus (Switzerland, Obwalden). The new species is morphologically most similar to E. matura (Loginova, 1972), a species from Mongolia, from which it differs in the light genal processes and in details of the terminalia. Eryngiofaga consists of 13 previously described species of which five occur in Central and Western Europe. Up to now, the genus was not known from Switzerland or the Alps. The host plant of E. perrara remains unknown, but Bupleurum ranunculoides L. (Apiaceae) is a likely candidate.
["Sternorrhyncha"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of Alainites (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae) from Thailand
A new species of Baetidae, Alainites siamensis sp. nov., is described from Thailand. This new species is closely related to Alainites lingulatus Tong & Dudgeon, 2000, Alainites laetificus (Kang & Yang, 1994) and Alainites yixiani (Gui & Lu, 1999). Species delimitation based on morphological and molecular (mitochondrial COI sequences) evidence is provided. The discovery of this species confirms the wide distribution of Alainites Waltz & McCafferty, 1994 in Southeast Asia.

A new species of Cleruchus (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae), an egg parasitoid of the invasive Cis chinensis (Coleoptera, Ciidae) in Switzerland, with new records of other congeners in Europe
A fairyfly (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae) Cleruchus breviclava Triapitsyn & Coray, sp. nov. is described and illustrated. The new species is an egg parasitoid of the invasive Cis chinensis Lawrence (Coleoptera, Ciidae) in Antrodia xantha fungus (Polyporales, Fomitopsidaceae) in Basel, Switzerland; it is also known from low mountains in Germany and Switzerland. Supporting data on the “barcoding” region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene, as well as separate regions of nuclear ribosomal RNA, the D2 region of 28S and the internal transcribed spacer 2, provide strong evidence of conspecificity of the morphologically variable macropterous and strongly brachypterous individuals of C. breviclava. Macropterous females of the new species are most similar to those of C. detritus Bakkendorf, also known from Switzerland. New records are provided for some other species of Cleruchus Enock in Europe. A key to both sexes of the described European species of the genus is given.

Der Fremdling im Therapiegarten – Cis chinensis (Coleoptera, Ciidae) und sein Umfeld
Samples of the tree fungus Antrodia xantha were collected on Pinus strobus in the therapy garden of the UPK campus (University Psychiatric Clinics) in Basel in summer 2021. The samples contained an alien Ciidae species new to Switzerland: Cis chinensis Lawrence, 1991, a species otherwise mainly known as a storage pest of commercially dried fungi. The adults and larvae of the Basel population are described and illustrated. When comparing the size of the adults of the two sample series collected two weeks apart, statistically significant differences were found. It appears that the above-average temperatures in June 2021 favoured the size of the second group. A number of (4–)5 larval stages are postulated for larval development. As an endoparasitoid of the eggs of C. chinensis, an unknown Mymaridae of the genus Cleruchus was found. Noteworthy was an unusually heavy infestation of Ciidae by phoretic mites (Histiostomatidae). During follow-up surveys in early 2022, additional individuals of C. chinensis were also found on the fruitbodies of other fungi growing in the immediate vicinity of the site where the population of the species was initially observed on A. xantha. A list of all Ciidae detected on the UPK campus is provided, and the spectrum of host-fungi of C. chinensis is discussed.
["Ciidae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

﻿Description of the female of Platycheirus altomontis Merlin & Nielsen in Nielsen, 2004 (Diptera, Syrphidae) with notes on the occurrence and hilltopping behaviour of rare French montane and Alpine Syrphidae
A focused search in very high (2500–3200 m asl) Alpine mountain tops in France resulted in the discovery of the very rare Alpine-endemic syrphid Platycheirus altomontis Merlin & Nielsen in Nielsen, 2004, including its hitherto unknown female. A description of the female is given and further complemented with behavioural observations of this species with special reference to hilltopping. Additional records and behavioural observations are provided for rare and new species for the French fauna from the montane and Alpine habitat with focus on species of high altitude (>2750 m) and hilltopping behaviour. The species Rohdendorfia alpina Sack 1938 is new to France and was observed in large numbers at scree slopes above 2750 m and males were found sitting at hilltops up to 3200 m. Hilltopping behaviour of Syrphidae was observed over the whole altitudinal range visited, and multiple species engaged in this behaviour even at above 3000 m. Hilltopping appears to be more common in some genera (e.g. Parasyrphus and Pipizella) than in others and may be linked to specific phenotypes in some species. The latter was observed for the species Cheilosia melanura (Becker, 1894) of which at high hilltops much smaller males were found than at lower altitudes.
["hilltopping"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿NextRAD phylogenomics, sanger sequencing and morphological data to establish three new species of New Guinea stream beetles
We use molecular phylogenomic as well as morphological data to provide a taxonomic update on New Guinea endemic Philaccolilus diving beetles. In these lotic beetles, we find cryptic diversity that highlights the need for geographically denser sampling combined with the use of an intergrative taxonomic approach to unravel the true diversity and biogeography of these beetles. We describe three new species: P. intania sp. nov. from the northern Bird’s Head Peninsula, P. kirana sp. nov. from the southern Bird’s Head as well as P. febrina sp. nov. which is more widespread on the Bird’s Head. Philaccolilus ameliae weylandensis is elevated to species rank, as Philaccolilus weylandensis stat. nov.
["Dytiscidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Periscelis (Myodris) haennii sp. nov., a new species of Periscelididae (Diptera) from Ticino, Switzerland, with a new key to European species of the subgenus
A new Periscelididae species, Periscelis (Myodris) haennii sp. nov., is described from Losone near Locarno, Canton Ticino (Southern Switzerland). It has been found during a biodiversity survey using attractant traps in a Querco-Castagnetum forest. This new species is closely related and very similar to P. (M.) annulata (Fallén, 1813) occurring syntopically in the same traps. Interestingly, also P. (M.) piricercus Carles-Tolrá & Verdugo Páez, 2009 co-occurred with these species; consequently, all European species of the subgenus Myodris Lioy, 1864 were found in this locality. A new illustrated key to males of these species is presented. The DNA sequences of the barcoding region of COI for all these species are given.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Ikaros navarretei (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae), a new apterous rove beetle species from high elevations in Colombia
A new species of the xanthopygine genus Ikaros Chatzimanolis & Brunke, 2021 is described from Colombia: Ikaros navarretei sp. nov. Illustrations and a key are provided to identify the four known species of Ikaros.
["Northern Andean p\u00e1ramo"]

Two new high Andean species of Liodessus diving beetles from Venezuela (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Bidessini)
Two new species of the diving beetle genus Liodessus Guignot, 1939 are described from high mountain regions in Venezuela: Liodessus meridensis sp. nov. from Laguna de Mucabají, Mérida and L. venezuelensis sp. nov. from Laguna de Mucabají and below Pico Bolívar, Mérida. We delineate the species using morphological characters such as male genital structure and beetle size, shape and color. Mitochondrial cox1 sequence data provided an additional character source. Both new species occur at altitudes above 3,500 m and were collected in shallow water at the edge of high-altitude ponds.

On some Ctenarytaina species (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) from Gunung Kinabalu (Malaysia, Sabah)
Gunung Kinabalu is famous for its exceptionally diverse fauna and flora, rich in endemism. An example is the psyllid genus Ctenarytaina that is represented by four, apparently endemic species. Here two new Ctenarytaina species, C. lienhardi sp. nov. and C. smetanai sp. nov., are described from Gunung Kinabalu. The new taxa are diagnosed, illustrated and their relationships to other species in the genus are discussed. Ctenarytaina daleae Burckhardt is redescribed. The species develops on Leptospermum species (Myrtaceae) and not Syzygium as previously suggested.
["Sternorrhyncha"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies"]

Relict populations of Lyonetia ledi Wocke, 1859 (Lepidoptera, Lyonetiidae) from the Alps indicate postglacial host-plant shift to the famous Alpenrose (Rhododendron ferrugineum L.)
Lyonetia ledi Wocke, 1859 (Lyonetiidae), was hitherto considered as a boreal species with a circumpolar distribution pattern and relict populations in isolated peat bogs north-east of the Alps (Austria, Czech Republic, Germany). In Europe it is known as a leaf-miner on Rhododendron tomentosum Stokes ex Harmaja (Ericaceae) as the primary host-plant and also Myrica gale L. (Myricaceae). The first record of L. ledi from the Swiss Alps on Rhododendron ferrugineum L., the famous Alpenrose, indicates an ancient host-plant switch during postglacial periods when R. tomentosum and R. ferrugineum shared habitat in the prealps. Conspecificity with northern populations is supported by the adult morphology and supplementing DNA barcodes (mtDNA COI gene). L. ledi is the first obligatory leaf-mining species on R. ferrugineum. Details of the life-history and habitat are described and figured. The record finally substantiates the probability of an autochthonous population in Carinthia (Austria), from where the species was recently published as new to the Alps.
["Lyonetia ledi"]

Female accessory gland fluid promotes sperm survival in yellow dung flies
Female and male reproductive traits co-evolve through pre- and post-copulatory sexual selection and sexual conflict. Although males typically transfer many sperm during copulation, only a small proportion reach the fertilization site because females often actively or passively reduce sperm number in their reproductive tract. Males may transfer accessory substances to protect their ejaculates against female selective processes, which benefits males but can harm females. In turn, females may use accessory gland fluids to control paternity or sperm storage. Female yellow dung flies (Scathophaga stercoraria) have paired accessory glands that produce fluids involved in fertilization and egg laying. One proposed function for these fluids is spermicide. Alternatively, female accessory gland fluid may help keep sperm alive to avoid fertilization failure or encourage sperm competition. Using yellow dung flies, we investigated the interaction of female accessory gland fluid with sperm in vitro. Significantly more sperm remained alive when exposed to accessory gland fluid compared to buffer only (63% vs. 44%). We conclude that female accessory gland fluid in yellow dung flies can help nourish rather than kill male sperm, although selective nourishment of sperm is as consistent with cryptic female choice as is selective spermicide.
["Reproduction"]
["Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Mitrapsylla rupestris sp. nov., a psyllid (Hemiptera, Psylloidea) associated with Poiretia bahiana (Fabaceae) endemic to the Espinhaço mountain range (Brazil, Bahía)
Mitrapsylla rupestris sp. nov., associated with Poiretia bahiana C. Mueller (Fabaceae, Faboideae, Dalbergieae), is described, diagnosed and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to M. aeschynomenis, M. aurantia, M. cubana and M. didyma from which it differs in details of the terminalia and the host plant. Poiretia constitutes a previously unknown psyllid host. As its host, Mitrapsylla rupestris sp. nov. is probably endemic to rock habitats of the Espinhaço Range in eastern Brazil. These rock habitats display a high species diversity but are seriously threatened by human activities. More research on these habitats is urgently needed to design efficient conservation strategies.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and animal studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Energetic underpinnings of yellow dung fly mating success in the field
Foraging provides the basis for animal reproduction, but requires energy and time to be sustained, entailing a trade-off. Whereas females should maximize their time foraging for resources, males should minimize their foraging time by optimizing time budgets to maximize their access to mating partners. Mark-resight field studies are difficult and hence uncommon for small insects. Yellow dung flies (Scathophaga stercoraria L.) abound on pastures in cold-temperate regions across the northern hemisphere. Adult flies lick nectar from flowers for energy, but require small insect prey to produce eggs and sperm. Males wait for females around fresh cow dung, but at one point also need to replenish their energy and/or sperm reserves in the surrounding vegetation. Their foraging time budgets should depend on their body size, nutritional energy reserves, availability of sperm, competitor and female density. Marked male dung flies whose nutritional status was experimentally manipulated – water only (null control); water + sugar (energy replenishment); or water, sugar + Drosophila prey (energy and sperm replenishment) – were repeatedly observed on an experimental pasture for an entire day. Both nutrient types were expected to increase the mating success of especially large males. The total number of resighted males seen copulating was lowest for water-treated flies. Mating success was positively related to body size. The distance travelled between dung pats was greater for males fed sugar or prey and also increased with body size, while pat residence times decreased with size. No differences were found between the sugar- and prey-fed groups. Crucially however, there was no evidence in the field for a time budget or mating advantage of small males when nutrients were limited.
["body size"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Rediscovery of Stactobia eatoniella McLachlan, 1880 (Trichoptera, Hydroptilidae) in Switzerland after more than seventy years
A specimen of Stactobia eatoniella, a hygropetric species of micro-caddisfly considered extinct in Switzerland, was discovered in the Morge in Valais in March 2020 during routine monitoring. This last instar larva in perfect condition is the first to be observed in Switzerland since 1944. Further research in the study area is needed to confirm the presence of a possible well-established population. This encouraging discovery should not hide the fact that two thirds of the micro-caddisfly species are on the Red List of threatened species of Switzerland, and that hygropetric habitats are both under-studied and highly endangered in Switzerland and worldwide.
["caddisfly"]

Unraveling a complex problem: Dichrorampha velata sp. nov., a new species from the Alps hitherto confounded with D. alpestrana ([Zeller], 1843) sp. rev. = D. montanana (Duponchel, 1843) syn. nov. (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)
Analysis of wing pattern, genital morphology and results of DNA barcoding indicates that the name Dichrorampha montanana sensu auct. actually comprises two species. D. alpestrana ([Zeller], 1843) sp. rev. is considered as senior synonym of D. montanana (Duponchel, 1843) syn. nov., and a lectotype is designated for the latter name to fix the identity. After thorough search for possible synonyms, Dichrorampha velata sp. nov. is described and differentiated morphologically and with DNA barcodes from D. alpestrana and adults and genitalia of both species are figured. Dichrorampha velata sp. nov. is restricted to the European Alps and adjacent regions whereas D. alpestrana is more widespread with likely arctic-alpine disjunction and records from the Alps and the northern part of Great Britain.
["cryptic diversity"]

A fungal parasite selects against body size but not fluctuating asymmetry in Swiss subalpine yellow dung flies
Evidence for selective disadvantages of large body size remains scarce in general. Previous studies of the yellow dung fly Scathophaga stercoraria have demonstrated strong positive sexual and fecundity selection on male and female size. Nevertheless, the body size of flies from a Swiss study population has declined by ~10% 1993–2009. Given substantial heritability of body size, this negative evolutionary response of an evidently positively selected trait suggests important selective factors being missed. An episodic epidemic outbreak of the fungus Entomophthora scatophagae permitted assessment of natural selection exerted by this fatal parasite. Fungal infection varied over the season from ~50% in the cooler and more humid spring and autumn to almost 0% in summer. The probability of dying from fungal infection increased with adult fly body size. Females never laid any eggs after infection, so there was no fungus effect on female fecundity beyond its impact on mortality. Large males showed their typical mating advantage in the field, but this positive sexual selection was nullified by fungal infection. Mean fluctuating asymmetry of paired appendages (legs, wings) did not affect the viability, fecundity or mating success of yellow dung flies in the field. This study documents rare parasite-mediated disadvantages of large-sized flies in the field. Reduced ability to combat parasites such as Entomophthora may be an immunity cost of large body size in dung flies, although the hypothesized trade-off between fluctuating asymmetry, a presumed indicator of developmental instability and environmental stress, and immunocompetence was not found here.
["body size"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Two males, one female: triplet-style mating behaviour in the Darwin wasp Xorides ater (Gravenhorst, 1829) (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Xoridinae) in the Swiss Alps
The Darwin wasp Xorides ater is a solitary idiobiont ectoparasitoid of wood-boring beetle larvae. It occurs across the Palaearctic, and in Switzerland seems to be restricted to areas above 980 m altitude. Very little is known about its biology and behaviour. We here report three separate instances of a female X. ater mating simultaneously with two males, observed on the same occasion on a Picea abies woodpile near Lenk, Switzerland. Only two copulae that involved one male and one female were observed at the same time, which might indicate that this mating mode is rather common in X. ater. We illustrate our observations with photo and video material and compare it to mating behaviour known from other species of Darwin wasps.
["Altitudinal distribution"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Hypera temperei Hoffmann, 1958 – first discovery of the western alpine element in the Swiss Alps with biological details, and new morphological insights (Coleoptera, Curculionidae)
Since its description based on a single female from the Maritime Alps in France, no other localities of this enigmatic alpine species have become public. In a scree slope in the Valais at high montane altitude Hypera temperei Hoffmann, 1958 was discovered for the first time elsewhere, in Switzerland. The species’ biology is unravelled, its habitat is described, and photographs of the male, larvae and pupa are presented. The re-investigation of the species morphology revealed that Hypera temperei is closest to H. postica (Gyllenhal, 1813), and not to H. viciae (Gyllenhal, 1813) as previously supposed. A revision of specimens in collections revealed that H. temperei is distributed even more eastern in the alpine Arc in Grisons at high montane to high alpine altitudes. Hence the species shows a considerably wider distribution in the Alps than supposed before.
["Hyperinae"]

First report of Cooka incisa (Beekey, 1937) from Europe (Diptera, Scatopsidae)
Cooka incisa (Cook, 1956) is recorded from several wooded localities in southern Switzerland (canton of Ticino). This is the first European record of this species, as well as the first record of the otherwise Nearctic genus Cooka Amorim, 2007 in the Palaearctic region as a whole. The possibility of an accidental introduction of C. incisa in Europe is discussed.
["Scatopsidae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Tracking the spread of the northern bark beetle (Ips duplicatus [Sahlb.]) in Europe and first records from Switzerland and Liechtenstein
The northern bark beetle (Ips duplicatus), in Europe originally restricted to northern countries, expanded its distribution range to eastern Europe in the 20th century and is now causing considerable damage in spruce forests. In the past decades its presence has been confirmed in several Central European countries. By means of pheromone traps and visual inspection of infested logs, in this study we demonstrate that I. duplicatus is also present in the Rhine valley in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Breeding galleries with beetles and exit holes in an infested spruce log indicate that the trapped beetles had successfully developed in a local stand nearby. An inquiry addressed to European entomologists was carried out to obtain information and references concerning the year of the first record or mention of I. duplicatus in their respective countries. This information substantiated the expansion of its historical range to the southeast in the middle of the last century and clearly showed recent movement westward, with Switzerland and Germany currently the westernmost countries where this species occurs. This recent range expansion is likely attributed to the transport of infested timber. The economic significance of this expanding bark beetle species is discussed in view of its co-occurrence with the notorious pest species I. typographus.
["double-spined bark beetle"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of Liodessus Guignot, 1939 diving beetles from Northern Peru (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae)
The diving beetles Liodessus altoperuensis sp. nov. and Liodessus caxamarca sp. nov. (Dytiscidae, Hydroporinae, Bidessini) are described from the high altitudes of the Puna regions of north western Peru. They occur in shallow and exposed mossy peatland puddles. We delineate the two species using structures such as male genitalia, beetle size, shape and colour pattern. Mitochondrial Cox1 data were also generated, and revealed clusters congruent with morphological evidence. Altogether fourteen Liodessus species are now known from the Andean region.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Unique nesting biology of Osmia ( Melanosmia) uncinata, a Palaearctic osmiine bee specialized on thick-barked conifers (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)
Osmia (Melanosmia) uncinata Gerstäcker is a Palaearctic megachilid bee distributed from temperate and northern Europe eastwards to the Russian Far East. The discovery of over 80 nests in Switzerland, southern Germany and Scotland enabled for the first time a closer investigation of its nesting biology and prompted the assessment of the species’ phenology, distribution and habitat. O. uncinata nested in self-excavated burrows inside the bark of both living trunks and dead stumps of Pinus sylvestris. The nests were excavated at a height of 10–220 cm above ground either on the underside of prominences of longitudinal bark ribs or inside beetle borings and extended more or less vertically upwards. They consisted of a single straight to slightly curved burrow with rarely one to three side burrows, had a total length of 1.2–12.0 cm and contained 1–6 brood cells. The brood cells, which faced downwards with the larval provisions being located in the upper cell half, were separated from each other by one-layered walls of chewed leaves (“leaf pulp”). The nests were sealed with a plug of 2–4 closely adjacent walls of leaf pulp. DNA metabarcoding of cell and plug walls revealed that Potentilla and Fragaria (Rosaceae) served as leaf pulp sources. Pre-imaginal mortality amounted to 77%, partly caused by brood parasites such as Sapyga similis (Sapygidae) and Cacoxenus indagator (Drosophilidae) or predators such as snakeflies (Raphidioptera). At low elevations, O. uncinata needs one year for its development and overwinters as imago inside the nest, whereas in the subalpine zone of the Alps it has a two-year cycle passing the first winter as prepupa and the second winter as imago. O. uncinata starts to emerge between the end of March at low elevations and the end of May at higher elevations qualifying as an early flying bee like the other European O. (Melanosmia) species. The distribution of O. uncinata in Central Europe and Scotland largely coincides with the occurrence of P. sylvestris. As in the pine, it extends over a wide altitudinal range from below 100 m up to 1900 m a.s.l. and encompasses dry and wet as well as warm and cold habitats including open pine forests, inner and outer forest edges dominated by pine and isolated pine groups. At a few locations in the subalpine zone of the Alps, O. uncinata occurs in the absence of P. sylvestris; here, the thick bark of Larix decidua serves as a substitute nesting substrate.

First record of Erasmoneura vulnerata Fitch, 1851 (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae) in Switzerland
The first record of Erasmoneura vulnerata Fitch, 1851 in Switzerland is reported. Specimens were collected in 2019 using yellow sticky traps during a Scaphoideus titanus monitoring campaign in vineyards in Ticino (Southern Switzerland). E. vulnerata is a grapevine pest that has recently been introduced to Europe, whose phytophagy causes detrimental damage to grapevine leaves. Its occurrence in this area has likely been favored by the ongoing suspension of insecticide treatments for the control of the S. titanus population, the vector agent of the “Flavescence dorée” phytoplasma in grapevines.
["Erythroneura"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Owlflies from Jordan (Neuroptera, Ascalaphidae)
The authors publish faunistic data on 48 owlfly specimens from Jordan, where only two species were known in the past. Four species (Ascalaphus festivus, Deleproctophylla variegata, Iranoidricerus cf. iranensis, Stylascalaphus krueperi) are new records for Jordan and the two previously recorded species (Bubopsis andromache, Bubopsis hamata) are confirmed. We present an annotated bibliography, the global distribution and information on the life history of each six species. The material reviewed in three collections also provides the first mention of Deleproctophylla variegata for Afghanistan.
["owlfly"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Cincticostella (Ephemeroptera, Ephemerellidae) from China
Cincticostella tornata, a new species of Ephemerellidae, is described from China. It belongs to the insolta-species group and is closely related to C. femorata. It is hitherto only known from its type locality in central China, more than 1000 km northern to the known distribution of C. femorata. In addition, the COI barcode of the new species is provided.
["Cincticostella femorata"]

Nemapogon helveticola sp. nov. aus der Schweiz (Lepidoptera, Tineidae)
Aus der Schweiz wird Nemapogon helveticola als neue Art beschrieben. Dabei handelt es sich um eine taxonomisch isolierte Art, welche bisher nur an einer einzigen Stelle gefunden worden ist. Der Falter und die männlichen Genitalien werden abgebildet.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

Key to the Macrophya zhaoae group (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae) with description of a new species from China
The Macrophya zhaoae group is reviewed and five species are recognized in China, including a newly described species, M. lishuii Li, Liu & Wei sp. nov. from Zhejiang Province, and four previously known species, M. hainanensis Wei & Nie, 2002, M. minutitheca Wei & Nie, 2002, M. nigrospuralina Wei, 2005 and M. zhaoae Wei, 1997. A key to all Chinese species and a distribution map of the M. zhaoae group in China are provided.

Integrative revision of the Caryocolum schleichi species group – a striking example of a temporally changing species concept (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae)
The taxonomy of the Palaearctic Caryocolum schleichi species group is revised, leading to a largely new species concept. Initially described as four different species (C. schleichi, C. arenariella, C. dianthella, C. improvisella), these taxa were later considered as subspecies. Recently the taxon C. arenariella was re-instated to species level without, however, revision of the remaining three subspecies. Analysis of DNA barcodes of the mtCOI (Cytochrome c Oxidase 1) gene of all four validly described taxa showed an unexpected pattern of genetic diversity. Careful re-examination of morphological traits, particularly male and female genitalia, fully supported this pattern, leading to the re-instatement of C. dianthella sp. rev. and C. improvisella sp. rev. as valid species and the description of three new species, all of them occurring in the Alps: C. messneri sp. nov. (Italy, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Greece), C. lamai sp. nov. (Italy, France) and C. habeleri sp. nov. (France, Switzerland, Germany). All species are described in detail and the adults and genitalia of both sexes are illustrated.
["cryptic diversity"]

Nebria (Pseudonebriola) tsambagarav sp. nov., a new alpine species from the Mongolian Altai (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Nebria (Pseudonebriola) tsambagarav sp. nov. is described from an alpine altitude in the Mongolian Altai. The new species is separated from other two Pseudonebriola species from the Mongolian Altai Mountain range, N. kerzhneri and N. medvedevi, by morphometric and morphological analyses. The new species and its habitat are illustrated, the subgeneric key is amended, and a distribution map is given.
["carabids"]

The first discovery of the genus Pseudoalaocybites Osella, 1980 from Ecuador, with a description of a new species in an alpine ecosystem (Coleoptera, Curculionidae: Molytinae)
Pseudoalaocybites chimborazoi sp. nov. – a new microphthalmic weevil from the Ecuadorian Páramo is described, compared, and the discovery is discussed. The record enlarges the distribution area of the genus considerably to the South, furthermore it is the first record of a Pseudoalaocybites from the Páramo, an Andean ecosystem, which is also known as an evolutionary hot spot.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

On the identity of Paracacoxenus kaszabi Okada, with the formal description of a new closely related species (Diptera, Drosophilidae)
In order to clarify the identity of Paracacoxenus kaszabi Okada, 1973, a species described from Mongolia, the morphological structures of one male paratype, collected at 1,750 m altitude, were analyzed and redescribed. In addition, one of the male specimens, previously referred to in literature as ‘sp. aff. kaszabi’, is restudied and described as Paracacoxenus macai sp. nov. (type locality: Schmelz, Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio, Province of Bolzano, Region of Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy). The former species seems to be distributed in central and eastern Asia while the latter is supposed to have an exclusively European distribution. The midtibial preapical seta of male Paracacoxenus argyreator (Frey, 1932), which is unusually long, is illustrated by photomicrographs. A key to the European species of Paracacoxenus Hardy, 1960 is presented.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Dritter Nachtrag zur Rüsselkäfer-Fauna der Schweiz (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea)
Die Anzahl verlässlich gemeldeter Taxa (Arten und Unterarten) der Curculionoidea aus der Schweiz beträgt momentan 1081. Funde von Orchestes calceatus (Germar, 1821) werden hier erstmals bestätigt. Zusätzliche Verbreitungsdaten von zehn Arten werden gegeben. Der auf subalpine und alpine Lebensräume beschränkte Phyllobius alpinus Stierlin, 1859 ist eine valide Art stat. rev., und kein Synonym zu Ph. xanthocnemus Kiesenwetter, 1852 und wird daher aus der Synonymie herausgenommen. Die Arten werden verglichen und typische Unterscheidungsmerkmale werden aufgeführt.
["Curculionoidea"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of Rhantus diving beetles from the wetlands of the City of Bogota and surroundings (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Colymbetinae)
The Colombian species of the genus Rhantus are reviewed. Rhantus bogotensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated, based on specimens collected in the Altiplano of the Bogota region. It is compared with the similar species Rhantus franzi, R. vicinus, and R. crypticus. The Ecuadorian species Rhantus crypticus was found for the first time in the highlands of Nariño department. This is a new record for Colombia. Five species of Rhantus are presently known from Colombia.
["Dytiscidae Rhantus new species new records Bogota Colombia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Review of the endemic New Zealand genus Arctesthes Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae), with descriptions of two new range-restricted species
The genus Arctesthes Meyrick (Geometridae: Larentiinae: Xanthorhoini), endemic to the South Island of New Zealand, is revised. Four species are recognised, including two new species, as follows: Arctesthes catapyrrha (Butler, 1877), A. siris (Hudson, 1908), A. titanica sp. nov. and A. avatar sp. nov. All except A. catapyrrha are restricted to subalpine and alpine localities. Adults and genitalia are fully described and illustrated for all species; larvae of A. catapyrrha are also briefly described and illustrated. Only Arctesthes catapyrrha is widespread; A. siris is restricted to a few mountain ranges of Central Otago; A. titanica is only known from two wetland localities in the Von Valley of the Otago Lakes district, and A. avatar is only known from a few wetlands in a restricted area of north-west Nelson. The two new species are considered of very high priority for conservation.
["New Zealand"]

Nesting in bark – the peculiar life history of the rare boreoalpine osmiine bee Osmia (Melanosmia) nigriventris (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)
Osmia (Melanosmia) nigriventris (Zetterstedt) is a predominantly boreoalpine megachilid bee species, whose biology is poorly known due to its pronounced rarity all over Central Europe. The discovery of 19 nests in the Grisons and Valais (Switzerland) allowed for the investigation of its nesting biology and prompted the assessment of the species’ host-plant spectrum, phenology and distribution. All nests were in thick bark pieces of Larix decidua, which lay in grassy vegetation on sun-exposed ground of open subalpine forests dominated by larch. The nests contained 1–26 brood cells constructed within one to several burrows tunneled out by the female bees with their specialized mandibles, which are distinctly stronger than those of related O. (Melanosmia) species known to nest in preexisting cavities or loose soil. The linearly arranged brood cells were separated from each other by three-layered partitions consisting of an interlayer of densely packed small bark particles sandwiched between two thin layers of chewed green leaves (“leaf pulp”). DNA metabarcoding of several nest plugs revealed that Potentilla (Rosaceae) and Helianthemum (Cistaceae) served as source of the leaf pulp. Anthrax anthrax (Bombyliidae) and Sapyga similis (Sapygidae) parasitized the brood cells of O. nigriventris as shown by DNA barcoding of prepupae overwintering in the host’s nests. O. nigriventris is mesolectic and harvests pollen almost exclusively on Fabaceae (e.g. Lotus, Hippocrepis), Ericaceae (Rhododendron, Vaccinium) and Cistaceae (Helianthemum). Depending on the altitude, O. nigriventris emerges from the beginning of May to the first decade of June and thus qualifies as an early flying bee active in spring and early summer similar to the other European O. (Melanosmia) species. It likely needs two years for its development in the subalpine zone of the Alps and overwinters as prepupa in the first and probably as imago in the second winter. O. nigriventris has a Holarctic distribution, its disjunct Palaearctic range encompasses the boreal zone from Scandinavia eastwards to the Russian Far East, the Caucausus, the Alps as well as scattered locations at lower altitudes throughout Central Europe, where it is regarded as a glacial relict and has probably suffered strong declines during the last decades.
["Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Revision der Nematopogon adansoniella-Artengruppe mit Beschreibung einer neuen Art aus den Bergregionen Süditaliens (Lepidoptera, Adelidae)
Das ursprünglich aus den Südwestalpen beschriebene Taxon Nematopogon adansoniella (de Villers, 1789) wird neu bewertet. Auf Grund von DNA-Barcodeuntersuchungen sowie morphologischen Merkmalen wird Nematopogon prolai Hartig, 1941 aus dem Apennin (Mittelitalien) als eigenständige Art anerkannt und ein Lectotypus wird festgelegt. Als weitere, kryptische Art wird Nematopogon garganellus sp. nov. vom Monte Gargano (Puglia) und aus der Basilicata (Süditalien) neu beschrieben. Die morphologischen und genitalmorphologischen Unterscheidungsmerkmale der drei Arten werden aufgezeigt und, soweit bekannt, Angaben zu Verbreitung, Lebensraum und Bionomie gemacht.
["Lepidoptera Nematopogoninae DNA barcoding Italy Apennines Monte Gargano new species lectotype designation"]

Fire and windthrow in forests: Winners and losers in Neuropterida and Mecoptera
The mid-term impact of forest fires and windthrows on species compositions in the insect orders Neuroptera, Raphidioptera and Mecoptera was assessed in Swiss forests using standardized flight interception traps. For 50 species the abundances in intact control plots were compared to those in moderately or strongly disturbed forest stands. The catches were combined over four forest disturbance projects ranging from windthrows in alpine spruce forests and lowland deciduous forests to winter forest fires in Southern Switzerland and a large summer fire in southwestern Switzerland. As a result 82% of the 50 species benefited from the disturbance and became more abundant in the years after the fire or windthrow. More species (19) had their maximum abundance in intermediately disturbed plots than in heavily disturbed forests (17). Only 11 species mainly Hemerobiidae and Coniopterygidae peaked in the undisturbed forest stands. The species are listed per impact and ranked as winners (more than 66% specimens per treatment collected in disturbed forest plots) losers (more than 66% specimens per treatment in undisturbed forest plots) and indifferent species. An additional 29 species that were too scarce for an assessment are listed in Appendix 1. We conclude that for Neuropterida and Mecoptera catastrophic incidences are natural ecological events which create new habitats and by this foster their occurrence and abundance.
["Natural impacts"]
["Fire effects on ecosystems", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Hidden diversity in European bees: Andrena amieti sp. n., a new Alpine bee species related to Andrena bicolor (Fabricius, 1775) (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Andrenidae)
We revise the Alpine bee taxa related to Andrena bicolor (Fabricius, 1775), including A. montana Warncke, 1973 and A. allosa Warncke, 1975, the status of which has remained contentious. Phylogenetic analyses of one mitochondrial gene and one nuclear gene, as well as morphological examination reveal the presence of four Alpine species in this complex, one of which is new to science, A. amieti sp. n. This new species is widely distributed in the Alps from southern France throughout Switzerland, northern Italy and southern Germany to Austria; a single record is known from the Apennines. The type locality is located within the Unesco World Heritage site “Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch”. Two widely divergent mitochondrial lineages are found in sympatry in A. amieti sp. n.; the status of these lineages, which together form a paraphyletic unit from which A. allosa arose, is briefly discussed. We show that A. allosa, A. amieti sp. n. and A. montana are polylectic but that each species exhibits a distinct spectrum of pollen hosts: the univoltine A. allosa shows affinities for pollen of the early-blooming Alpine plant genus Crocus. A. amieti sp. n. is bivoltine and, as in A. bicolor, the summer generation exhibits a distinct preference for Campanulaceae, while the spring generation is widely polylectic. A. montana has a single generation in the summer and forages on a diversity of flowers such as Campanulaceae, Cistaceae and Caryophyllaceae. An identification key is presented for central European members of the subgenus Euandrena Hedicke, 1932. Lastly, the new Alpine species appears to represent the tip of the iceberg of substantial cryptic diversity in southern European Andrena (Euandrena): A. croatica Friese, 1887 is resurrected from synonymy with A. bicolor and treated as a valid species (stat. rev.), A. pileata Warncke, 1875, described as a subspecies of A. allosa, is elevated to species rank (stat. n.), and three additional unclear taxa are briefly described.
["Species delimitation"]

Temporal niche partitioning of Swiss black scavenger flies in relation to season and substrate age (Diptera, Sepsidae)
Understanding why and how multiple species manage to coexist represents a primary goal of ecological and evolutionary research. This is of particular relevance for communities that depend on resource rich ephemeral habitats that are prone to high intra- and interspecific competition. Black scavenger flies (Diptera: Sepsidae) are common and abundant acalyptrate flies associated with livestock dung decomposition in human-influenced agricultural grasslands worldwide. Several widespread sepsid species with apparently very similar ecological niches coexist in Europe, but despite their ecological role and their use in evolutionary ecological research, our understanding of their ecological niches and spatio-temporal distribution is still rudimentary. To gain a better understanding of their ecology, we here investigate niche partitioning at two temporal scales. First, we monitored the seasonal occurrence, often related to thermal preference, over multiple years and sites in Switzerland that differ in altitude. Secondly, we also investigate fine-scale temporal succession on dairy cow pastures. In accordance with their altitudinal and latitudinal distribution in Europe, some species were common over the entire season with a peak in summer, hence classified as warm-loving, whereas others were primarily present in spring or autumn. Phenological differences thus likely contribute to species coexistence throughout the season. However, the community also showed pronounced species turnover related to cow pat age. Some species colonize particularly fresh dung and are gradually replaced by others. Furthermore, the correlation between co-occurrence and phylogenetic distance of species revealed significant under-dispersion, indicating that more closely related species are frequently recovered at the same location. As a whole, our data suggests temporal niche differentiation of closely related species that likely facilitates the rather high species diversity on Swiss cattle pastures. The underlying mechanisms allowing close relatives to co-occur however require further scrutiny.
["climate distribution"]

Dual function of Potentilla (Rosaceae) in the life history of the rare boreoalpine osmiine bee Hoplitis (Formicapis) robusta (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)
Hoplitis robusta (Nylander) is a rare and poorly known osmiine bee species occurring in the subalpine zone of the Alps. The discovery of two nests of H. robusta in a thin branch of a dead fallen spruce on a sunny clearing of a subalpine spruce forest allowed the investigation of the nest architecture, the analysis of the larval diet and the assessment of the nest building material. X-raying, computed tomography and subsequent dissection of the nest branch revealed that the nests were built in L-shaped pupation tunnels of cerambycid beetles, which were probably cleaned from wood debris by the female bees with the aid of their large and powerful mandibles after nest site selection. The two nests contained five and six linearly arranged brood cells separated from each other by thin partitions built from masticated green leaves (“leaf pulp”). They were sealed at their opening by a thick plug consisting of several successive layers of leaf pulp constructed immediately behind each other. Microscopical analysis of the larval provisions of eight brood cells and of 41 pollen loads of females from museum and private collections showed that H. robusta exhibits a strong preference for the pollen of Potentilla (Rosaceae). Based on field observations, DNA metabarcoding of one nest plug and stereomicroscopic analysis of the leaf pulp matrix, Potentilla was also identified as an important source for the leaf pulp needed for nest construction, rendering H. robusta one of the few bee species known to collect floral resources and nest building material from the very same plant.
["Apiformes"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

New records of Agromyzidae (Diptera) from Switzerland and an updated checklist
Here, we investigate about 5500 previously unidentified specimens from the collection of Gerhard Bächli. A total of 108 agromyzid species were added to the fauna of Switzerland. Consequently, the species richness of the Swiss agromyzids was increased to 395 species. The checklist of Agromyzidae of Switzerland was updated, and the complete list presented in appendix.
["AgromyzidaeDiptera new record distribution host plants Switzerland checklist"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

Zu Verbreitung und Morphologie einiger Onthophagus-Arten der Schweiz (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae)
On distribution and morphology of some Onthophagus species in Switzerland (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). – On the basis of 1097 specimens from 12 collections, the distribution of ten dung beetle species of the genus Onthophagus (Scarabaeidae) in Switzerland is compiled and shown in distribution maps: O. taurus-group: O. illyricus, O. taurus; O. fracticornis-group: O. fracticornis, O. opacicollis, O. similis; O. ovatus-group: O. baraudi, O. grossepunctatus, O. joannae, O. ovatus, O. ruficapillus. New characters of the female genitalia allow species identification of O. fracticornis, O. similis, and O. ruficapillus. Reduced male characters of a small O. gibbulus are described.
["Onthophagini Central Europe Alps faunistics morphology dung beetles"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

An Alpine Malaise trap
The Southernmost region of Australia, the island of Tasmania, is also the most mountainous, with large areas of rugged alpine environments. This entomological frontier offers a distinct suite of insects for study including many endemic taxa. However, harsh weather, remote locations and rough terrain represent an environment too extreme for many existing insect trap designs. We report here on the design and efficacy of a new Alpine Malaise Trap (AMT), which can be readily hybridised with several other common insect trapping techniques. Advantages of the design include its light weight and portability, low cost, robustness, rapid deployment and long autonomous sampling period. The AMT was field tested in the Tasmanian highlands (AUST) in 2017. A total of 16 orders were collected. As expected, samples are dominated by Diptera. However, the trap also collected a range of flightless taxa including endemic and apterous species, Apteropanorpa tasmanica – closest relative of the boreal, snow scorpionflies (Boreidae). Combined and compared with other trap types the Alpine Malaise Traps captured less specimens but of a greater diversity than passive sticky traps, while drop traps captured less specimens but a greater diversity than AMT. The statistical potential of the catch is discussed.
["Long term"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Reinstatement of Leuctra biellensis Festa, 1942 (Plecoptera, Leuctridae)
Both molecular and morphologic characters support the reinstatement of Leuctra biellensis Festa, 1942 as a valid species distinct from Leuctra nigra (Olivier, 1811). Genetic distances between L. biellensis and the different populations of L. nigra are around 9%, while intraspecific distances among L. nigra haploclades are less than 1%. Morphologically, the two species can be separated in male adult specimens by the shape of the two teeth on tergite VIII, by the lateral edges of tergites and by the distal expansion of the paraprocts. Leuctra biellensis occurs on the southern slope of the Alps in Italy and Switzerland (Ticino and Graubünden), while L. nigra has a wide distribution in Central and Northern Europe. As the type material of L. biellensis was lost, and to avoid future confusion between the two species, we designate as neotype a male imago collected at the type locality.
["Stoneflies"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology"]

On the genus Chaetocladius s. str. Kieffer, 1911 from Switzerland with descriptions of five new relic species occurring in glacial alpine springs and streams (Diptera, Chironomidae)
A description of the male adults of five Chaetocladius s. str. species (C. castellae sp. n., C. lencioniae sp. n., C. lodscrozetae sp. n., C. macunensis sp. n. and C. muttensis sp. n.) is provided based on material collected in some glacial alpine springs and cold streams located in the Swiss Alps (altitude 1800–2700 m). Male adult of the nearest Chaetocladius species known from Europe and neighbouring areas belong to: C. aedeagolobatus Rossaro, Magoga & Montagna, 2017; C. insolitus Caspers, 1987; C. gracilis Brundin 1956; C. antipovae Makarchenko & Makarchenko, 2011; C. dissipatus (Edwards, 1929), C. holmgreni (Jacobson, 1998), C. egorych Makarchenko & Makarchenko, 2017. Although some resemblance can be found between the five diagnosed and described species and other related members of the Chaetocladius genus, the taxonomic position cannot be clarified until current comprehensive work on the genus is complete. Geographical distribution of the five new species is currently restricted to the two Alpine Swiss glacial catchments: upper basins of the Rhône River and Muttbach streams; streams and lakes delimited by the Macun area. This highlights the importance of some high mountain ranges, considered as cold glacial enclaves and hotspots of endemism, in the preservation and persistence of autochthonous alpine relic species. Such species are considered as relevant biogeographic representative and their loss would be biologically indicative of global warming and climate change. Currently, there are only seven recorded Chaetocladius species from Switzerland: C. coppai Moubayed-Breil, 2017; C. laminatus Brundin, 1947; C. cf. longivirgatus Stur & Spies, 2011; C. melaleucus (Meigen, 1818); C. perennis (Meigen, 1830); C. piger (Goetghebuer, 1913); C. suecicus (Kieffer, 1916). Consequently, the description of the five new species increases the total number in the genus Chaetocladius to twelve for this country. Remarks and comments on the taxonomic position, ecology and geographical distribution of the new described species, with key to known male adults from the upper catchment of Rhône River (including Muttbach valley) are provided..
["ChironomidaeOrthocladiinae new species glacial streams Swiss Alps conservation"]

From the South and from the North? – Quilnus marcosi Heiss & Baena and Aradus angularis J. Sahlberg, two flat bug species new for Central Europe (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Aradidae)
The flat bug fauna of Switzerland is still insufficiently studied. We describe the first records of Aradus angularis J. Sahlberg, 1886 and Quilnus marcosi Heiss & Baena, 2006 (Heteroptera: Aradidae) in Switzerland from a burnt forest area in the canton Valais. These are also the first records for Central Europe. With these new records, the number of Aradidae species recorded in Switzerland increases to 21, and in the canton Valais to 16. A cantonal record list of aradid species in Switzerland and photographs of the two recently new recorded species are provided. The pyrophilous A. angularis shows a disjunct distribution pattern, disconnected from its known distributional range from Fennoscandia to Northeast China, which suggests that the species is a relict of the Ice Age in Central Europe. In contrast, the sub-Mediterranean Q. marcosi seems to have expanded its distributional range to the north-east or has previously gone unnoticed in Switzerland. The host plants of Q. marcosi include Pinus nigra and P. sylvestris.
["first record"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Four new neotropical Trioza species associated with Loranthaceae (Santalales) and comments on mistletoe inhabiting psyllids (Hemiptera, Psylloidea)
Four new Trioza species associated with mistletoes are described, diagnosed and illustrated from Brazil and Chile. They are monophagous on the LoranthaceaeStruthanthus uraguensis (Trioza struthanthi sp. n.), Tripodanthus acutifolius (Trioza tripodanthi sp. n.) and narrowly oligophagous on Tristerix spp. (Trioza tristericis sp. n.). For a fourth species (Trioza vagata sp. n.) host information is unavailable but its association with mistletoes is likely. The four species form a putative monophyletic group, together with three North American species (Trioza acuminata Tuthill, T. incidata Tuthill and T. phorodendrae Tuthill), based on the apically incised paramere, the highly modified valvulae of the female ovipositor and the host association with mistletoes. T. acuminata stat. n. from California is raised to species rank (originally described as subspecies of T. phorodendrae). The Trioza struthanthi-group is diagnosed and a key for the identification of its constituent members is provided. New host data are provided for Calophya sp. from Brazil as well as for Notophorina fusca Burckhardt and Zonopelma australis Burckhardt from Chile. Host plant and biogeographical patterns of mistletoe feeding psyllids around the world are briefly discussed.
["SternorrhynchaTriozidae systematics hemiparasitic plants phytophagy distribution"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The male terminalia of seven American species of Drosophila (Diptera, Drosophilidae)
The male terminalia of seven species of Drosophila endemic to the New World are described or redescribed and illustrated: one in the hydei subgroup (D. guayllabambae) and four in the mulleri subgroup (D. arizonae, D. navojoa, D. nigrodumosa, and D. sonorae) of the repleta group; one in the sticta group (D. sticta) and one so far unassigned to group (D. comosa). The D. guayllabambae terminalia redescription is based on a wild-caught fly. The redescriptions of the terminalia of the four species in the mulleri subgroup are based on strain specimens, while those of D. sticta and D. comosa terminalia are based on their holotypes. D. guayllabambae seems to be a strictly mountainous species of the Ecuadorian and Peruvian Andes. D. nigrodumosa is apparently endemic to Venezuela, occurring in the Andes as well as at lower altitudes. The remaining five occurs only at lower altitudes of the American continent. The detailed line drawings depicted in this paper aim to help interested taxonomists to tell those species apart. Their precise identification is of great importance to the knowledge of the American biodiversity increasingly threatened by human activities.
["Drosophila subgenus"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

A new species of Systenus Loew (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) from Croatia
Systenus bartaki sp. n. is described from Croatia. The new species is similar to S. tener Loew and S. vasilii Grichanov but it differs by characters of the antennae and the male genitalia.
["Dolichopodidae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

West Palaearctic species of the Hercostomus species-group III (Diptera, Dolichopodidae), with description of a new species from Turkey
The West-Palaearctic species of the Hercostomus species-group III are reviewed, a species-list and a revised key to males is provided. Hercostomus angustus (Loew, 1857) is restored from synonymy with Hercostomus nanus (Macquart, 1827) based on differences in male genitalia. Hercostomus griseifrons Becker, 1910 is redescribed and a lectotype is designated. Hercostomus tonguci sp. n. is described from Turkey.
["DolichopodidaeHercostomus West-Palaearctic review new species"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Expansions of cosmopolitan Copepoda Acartia tonsa Dana 1849 in the Black, Caspian and Baltic seas: morphological and genetic analyses
Nature Conservation
A comprehensive morphological and genetic investigation of the widespread copepod species Acartia tonsa Dana 1849 has been conducted across the Black, Caspian, and Baltic seas. A. tonsa is a species that occupies productive estuaries and coastal zones extending from tropical and subtropical regions to higher latitudes throughout the World Ocean. In many regions, it becomes the dominant species within the zooplankton community during the spring and summer seasons. Upon invading non-native ecosystems of higher latitudes, its high abundance allows it to dominate zooplankton communities, playing a vital role in climate-mediated food web shifts; it has the potential to displace native copepod species. Nevertheless, it continues to serve as a crucial dietary component for a wide variety of zooplanktivorous fish. The morphological identification of the genus Acartia presents significant challenges. To date, no genetic methodologies have been employed to address this issue. This research utilizes genetic analyses, including the amplification of the mitochondrial markers CO1, 16S, and Cytb, along with the nuclear marker 18S, to explore the diversity within the genus Acartia offering new insights into spatial distribution of A. tonsa in the warming World Ocean.
["Acartia tonsa"]
["Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

New insights into the distribution, larval morphology, and genetic diversity of the endangered toad, Ophryophryne gerti (Amphibia, Anura, Megophryidae), in Vietnam
Nature Conservation
Ophryophryne gerti, an endangered toad endemic to the Langbian Plateau, Vietnam, has been known only from a restricted range in Bidoup Nui Ba and Chu Yang Sin National Parks. The conservation and sustainability of the species require knowledge of its true distribution, life history, and genetic diversity. During field surveys from July 2022 to September 2023 on the Di Linh Plateau, the southernmost extent of the Truong Son Range, adult and tadpole specimens of O. gerti were collected. A 940 bp fragment of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA–16S rRNA region was sequenced for phylogenetic and population genetic analyses. Our findings extend the species’ known range approximately 66 km southward, documenting its presence at lower elevations (500–2000 m). Tadpoles of O. gerti are characterized by an oval, depressed body; dorsolateral eyes; sinistral spiracle; pointed tail tip; and keratodont-free oral disc with serrated jaw sheaths. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed that the newly collected Di Linh specimens belong to O. gerti, which is closely related to O. synoria. Ten haplotypes were detected across populations, with Di Linh showing higher haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.993) but slightly lower nucleotide diversity (π = 0.00465) than Bidoup–Chu Yang Sin (Hd = 0.791; π = 0.00485). Both genetic indices and neutrality tests revealed that populations of this species are threatened in the wild, including Di Linh and well-protected areas such as Bidoup–Nui Ba and Chu Yang Sin National Parks. The Di Linh populations carried excess rare variation or low-frequency polymorphisms due to habitat fragmentation. These results highlight the Di Linh Plateau as an important conservation unit for O. gerti and emphasize the need to protect fragmented forest habitats to preserve the species’ genetic diversity and adaptive potential.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities"]

Acoustic analysis shows Clark’s Nutcracker seasonal and spatial habitat use during post-fire recovery of two endangered pine species
Nature Conservation
Whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) and limber pine (Pinus flexilis) are endangered species in Alberta that rely on seed caching by Clark’s Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) for regeneration. Our objective was to determine which factors affect Clark’s Nutcracker habitat use at the northern range limit of 5-needle pine co-occurrence, during fall foraging when seeds are cached, and during the following spring when seed caches are retrieved. This information is essential to inform recovery plans on potential for natural dispersal and regeneration on burns intended for 5-needle pine management. On a large, 2009 prescribed burn in Alberta (5600 ha), we used six automated acoustic recording devices from fall 2018 to spring 2020 to quantify Clark’s Nutcracker habitat use. We tested whether Clark’s Nutcracker habitat use differed between mast (2018) and non-mast years (2019), between whitebark and limber pine habitat, and burned versus unburned habitat. We used KALEIDOSCOPE PRO acoustic analysis software to quantify nutcracker calls from nearly 2000 hours of recordings with an advanced classifier. Model selection using Akaike’s information criterion suggests that nutcracker habitat use depended on masting, habitat type, burned habitat, distance from seed sources, and one or more interactions, in both fall and spring foraging periods. Results from our study show that in the fall when both pine species produce high numbers of cones in close proximity, Clark’s Nutcracker used whitebark pine habitat more, particularly unburned stands, suggesting more caching behavior. In the spring when seeds are retrieved, nutcracker habitat use was greater in the non-mast year, particularly in burned whitebark pine habitat. These habitat-use results suggest that in the 2018 mast year, both pine species benefitted from attracting seed dispersers, and further benefitted from lower habitat use the following spring, when caches are vulnerable to seed predation by nutcrackers. Whitebark pine attracted more nutcracker habitat use with fewer trees, and fewer cones per tree than limber pine. The 2009 prescribed burn created attractive habitat for Clark’s nutcracker 9–11 years post-fire, demonstrating that opportunities for seed dispersal occur during this period. Continued use of trees resistant to white pine blister rust (Cronartium ribicola) by dispersers is essential for natural regeneration to be effective in current recovery strategies, and to leverage existing plantings of white pine blister rust resistant seedling as they reach cone production age in the future.
["Acoustic analysis"]
["Fire effects on ecosystems", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Wood Treatment and Properties"]

Conservation of threatened vascular plants in intensive agricultural landscapes in Canada
With a steadily shrinking natural landscape in the province of Saskatchewan, Canada, mainly caused by intensive agriculture, conservation of threatened plants in situ should become a priority to prevent their extinction. The aim of this study is to identify native vascular plants at risk in the Redberry Lake Biosphere Region (RLBR) to support evidence-based conservation management. Such criteria as species distribution, richness, population size, habitat affinities, existing threats, conservation status, and gaps in the current protection were applied to develop the conservation strategies. The field surveys were conducted during 2010–2025 in various habitats of the RLBR within the Prairie and Boreal Plain ecozones. In total, 46 taxa (31 species, 5 subspecies and 10 varieties) of conservation concern in 19 families and 34 genera were identified. The top represented families Orchidaceae, Cyperaceae, and Poaceae and such genera as Carex, Cypripedium, and Potentilla make the largest contribution to the threatened flora. The study revealed that the majority of species occurrences and richness hotspots with 5–10 species each are concentrated in the Aspen Parkland ecoregion of the Prairie ecozone. It was found that most threatened plants occur in a few isolated sites, and their survival depends on the small population size as the consequence of recent habitat loss due to human activities. The conducted analysis identified seven hotspots of species richness, including three of them outside of the core area and the buffer zone of the RLBR designated for biodiversity protection. Threatened plants were categorized under the NatureServe criteria at the subnational (provincial) level as follows: S1– Critically Imperiled/Extremely rare (2 taxa), S2– Imperiled/Very rare (7), and S3– Vulnerable/Rare to uncommon (37). Among them, five species were assessed at the national level (N3) and two species at the global level (G3). Two S3 species from this listing are simultaneously ranked as VU– Vulnerable and NT– Near Threatened under the IUCN criteria. It was found that threatened plants are vulnerable to habitat loss, successional overgrowth, spread of invasive alien species, and wetland interventions. These threats are resulting from land use history, current unsustainable agricultural practices, and a lack of proper conservation management. The RLBR is one of the areas in Canada with the most heavily modiﬁed ecosystems where conservation management such as grazing, clearing, prescribed fire and invasive alien species control is needed in the majority habitats of threatened plants. This can be substantially enhanced by introducing novel conservation approaches, such as establishing Important Plant Areas in the buffer zone and recognising other effective area-based conservation measures in the transition area of the RLBR. These conservation strategies are important for raising public awareness and prompting political actions, but smaller-scale actions are also needed by local conservation practitioners.
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

Evaluating the conservation effectiveness of Ammopiptanthus nanus (Fabaceae) under different ex situ strategies through multi-molecular marker analysis
Ammopiptanthus nanus (Fabaceae), a nationally protected endangered evergreen shrub endemic to Central Asian deserts, is severely threatened by habitat fragmentation. To conserve its genetic resources, multiple ex situ populations have been established across China. We evaluated conservation efficacy under distinct management strategies across four ex situ populations (n = 114), including a near-site protected area (J), a Forestry and Grassland Administration–managed zone (L), Tazhong Botanical Garden (T), and the Forestry Academy of Sciences (K), using integrated molecular markers: expressed sequence tag–simple sequence repeats (EST-SSRs), chloroplast DNA fragments (psbA–trnH, trnL–trnF, trnS–trnG), and nuclear ribosomal ITS (ITS1/ITS4) sequences. The results reveal significant strategy-dependent divergence in genetic conservation efficiency, primarily driven by founder genetic composition and reproductive management protocols. Strategy (J) retained moderate chloroplast diversity but exhibited reduced nuclear diversity and high inbreeding. Strategy (L) maintained moderate nuclear diversity yet limited chloroplast variation. Strategy (T) showed the highest nuclear diversity but minimal maternal lineage preservation. Strategy (K) preserved unique maternal haplotypes and phylogenetic distinctiveness despite constrained nuclear diversity. Critically, all populations displayed high inbreeding coefficients (F > 0.404), indicating genetic bottlenecks and restricted gene flow. To ensure long-term viability, we recommend: (1) diversifying genetic foundations through the introduction of founders from multiple wild sources and expansion of population sizes to mitigate drift; (2) enhancing gene flow via periodic interpopulation transplants and facilitated distant cross-pollination, integrated with long-term monitoring of nuclear and cytoplasmic diversity.
["Ammopiptanthus nanus"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Plant Gene Expression Analysis"]

Floodplains and coastal wetlands as nutrient sinks: a restoration perspective
Floodplains and coastal wetlands provide essential ecosystem services such as flood protection, water quality enhancement, carbon sequestration, and the production of raw materials and food. Despite numerous studies on wetland restoration, the complexities of restoring ecosystem functions remain challenging. Complete restoration of natural functions is rare, and therefore seldom the primary target; instead, restoration efforts typically focus on reactivating key ecological processes. This study examines the restoration of ecosystem functions in floodplains and coastal wetlands, focusing on water quality improvement. It summarizes both nitrogen and phosphorus dynamics, highlighting the potential to restore processes like denitrification and sedimentation within relatively short time frames using selected case studies from Central Europe. However, restoration success is hindered by altered soil properties, nutrient legacy, and other degradation-related constraints. Ultimately, the effectiveness of restoration endeavors depends on site-specific factors such as wetland degradation, size, hydrological connectivity, plant recovery, and ongoing global changes. This underscores the importance of considering both spatial and temporal dimensions and adopting a custom-tailored restoration strategy. Highlights Recovery of nutrient retention processes can be either rapid or delayed Nutrient legacies and soil degradation hinder ecosystem restoration. Process insights and site traits guide effective restoration efforts.
["Anthropogenic pressures"]
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Constructed Wetlands for Wastewater Treatment"]

The Cerrado crisis review: highlighting threats and providing future pathways to save Brazil's biodiversity hotspot
This review raises awareness of the Cerrado’s value to society and serves as an informative guide for ecology professionals, policymakers, and anyone interested in biodiversity conservation. Herein, we comprehensively and critically address the ongoing degradation process of the Cerrado, highlighting its ecological complexity, biological diversity, and strategic importance for environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation in Brazil. We examine the diversity of ecosystems in the Cerrado, highlighting their specific vulnerabilities and the inadequacy of current legal instruments to guarantee their protection. Our analysis covers the main vectors of pressure on the territory, such as the advance of the agricultural frontier, the predatory use of fire, the silent water crisis, and threats to Indigenous peoples, highlighting how these factors operate in an interconnected manner to disrupt the region’s ecosystem services. The limitations of current conservation policies and the invisibility of species and ecosystems in the face of the dominant legal and economic systems are also discussed. Our review proposes ways to mitigate or even reverse this scenario, including increasing the number of Conservation Units and Indigenous lands, valuing regenerative economies, expanding protected areas, and strengthening territorial and climate governance. The defense of the Cerrado is presented here not only as an ecological imperative but as an agenda for environmental justice, water security, and intergenerational responsibility. By integrating data, references, conceptual reflections, and action strategies, we hope to contribute to repositioning the Cerrado at the center of discussions on conservation, climate, and sustainable development.
["Afforestation"]
["Conservation, Biodiversity, and Resource Management", "Amazonian Archaeology and Ethnohistory", "Environmental and biological studies"]

Behavioural responses of fireflies to artificial light: red lights attract adult Lamprigera (Coleoptera, Lampyridae)
Artificial lights expanding into natural environments disrupt ecological systems, affecting organisms that depend on natural light cues. Fireflies, which use bioluminescence for communication, are especially vulnerable. Although red light has been suggested as a solution, its effectiveness varies. This study examines how adult male and larval Lamprigera fireflies respond to varying intensities of artificial light at different wavelengths. We conducted field observations on adult male attraction patterns and ex situ studies of larval behaviour. Adult males were attracted to red and warm-white light, whereas larvae showed no response to red light or low-intensity light. Higher-intensity warm-white and cool-white light suppressed overall larval activity, with increasing intensity amplifying negative impacts regardless of spectral composition. Our findings indicate that successful light mitigation strategies for fireflies require balancing life stage-specific responses while maintaining artificial light intensities that minimise ecological impacts yet preserve human visual function.
["Bioluminescence"]
["bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research", "Retinal Development and Disorders", "Photochromic and Fluorescence Chemistry"]

First record of the white trevally (Pseudocaranx dentex) in the Black Sea: a new occurrence from Bulgarian coastal waters
This study documents the first confirmed record of the white trevally (Pseudocaranx dentex) in the Black Sea. A specimen (354 mm TL and weight 703 g) was recorded near Varna, Bulgaria, on 24 July 2025. This observation represents the northernmost occurrence of the species along the western Black Sea coast, extending its known distribution beyond the transitional zone of the Bosphorus. The present record from Varna Bay is located approximately 330 km north of the previous northernmost confirmed occurrence in the Bosphorus Strait, marking a substantial northward extension along the western Black Sea coastline. Identification was based on morphological and meristic characteristics. Despite abundant benthic prey in the area, the specimen’s empty stomach may indicate a recent arrival or a trophic mismatch. The finding supports the hypothesis of meridionalization and climate-driven range shifts of thermophilic fishes. Sea surface temperatures in the region have increased by ~0.5 °C per decade since the 1990s, creating favorable conditions for warm-water species. As a fast-growing, generalist predator, P. dentex may alter food web dynamics and interact with native species. This record underscores the need for sustained ichthyofaunal monitoring and further research on the ecological implications of thermophilic newcomers in the Black Sea.
["Climate-driven dispersal"]
["Marine and environmental studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Rediscovery of a thought to be extinct beauty: a second chance for conservation
Some rivulids are specialized to live in temporary or ephemeral water bodies, and for this reason they are known as annual or seasonal fishes. The fact that these seasonal species inhabit small temporary wetlands, which are easily modified and destroyed, represents a major challenge to their conservation and often puts them at risk of extinction. In Bolivia, one of the countries with the highest recent loss of primary tropical forests, of 32 recorded species, more than half (19) are endemic, and nearly one-third (9) are known only from their type localities. Of the 20 species assessed by the IUCN that occur in the country, eight have been classified in some threat category, and one of them, Moema claudiae (Costa, 2003), is listed as Critically Endangered and possibly extinct. The species had not been recorded in the wild for more than 20 years, and its only known locality—as well as much of its potential distribution area—have been severely degraded and are now occupied by extensive agroindustrial crops. In this work, we report the finding of a population of Moema claudiae recently discovered in a temporary pond within a small forest remnant surrounded by crops. This discovery allows us to provide the first live photographs of the species, along with previously unknown aspects of its biology and ecology. Furthermore, it offers an exceptional opportunity of a second chance to conserve a species that was already believed to be extinct and lost forever.
["Aquatic ecosystems"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Assessment of the vulnerability of Spiny Lizards in Central Mexico under anthropogenic pressure: integrating habitat suitability, landscape connectivity, fragmentation and protected area coverage
The genus Sceloporus represents a diverse and ecologically significant group of lizards within the Mexican herpetofauna, particularly in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt (TMVB), a region of exceptional endemism increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pressures. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive spatial vulnerability assessment of 17 species of Sceloporus that are present in the TMVB, integrating ecological niche modelling (ENM), habitat fragmentation metrics, land-use exposure and protected area overlap. Binary distribution maps were generated from the ensemble models optimised with biomod2. For each species, we calculated the habitat area, number of habitat patches and mean patch size, synthesising these values into a composite vulnerability index. Land-use pressures were quantified through spatial overlaying of urban, agricultural and pasture-land layers, followed by principal component analysis (PCA) and k-means clustering to generate a multivariate anthropogenic pressure zonation. Species distributions were also compared against those of state and federal protected areas. ​​The 17-species analysis revealed noteworthy variation in spatial dimensions and fragmentation of habitat, exhibiting high spatial vulnerability and high exposure to anthropogenic pressure. Furthermore, our results revealed that the predicted habitats of all 17 species overlap with highly transformed urban landscapes. A bivariate risk assessment identified S. megalepidurus as the only species with both high pressure and high vulnerability, while the species S. anahuacus, S. albiventris and S. minor, currently listed as “least concern” or “not evaluated” by the IUCN, showed alarming risk signals when spatially explicit metrics were incorporated. Our integrative framework underscores the need to revisit conservation assessments by incorporating habitat quality, fragmentation and exposure to land-use pressures, not just geographic range.
["Anthropogenic pressure"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Integrating herbarium data with spatial biodiversity assessment into conservation plans: A case study of the genus Carex L. (Cyperaceae) in Saskatchewan, Canada
Sedge (Carex L.) is the largest genus of vascular plants in Saskatchewan, Canada, where it is represented by 105 species. The aim of this study was to develop an effective procedure to assess the conservation status of sedges in the province. Data on 49 target Carex species were collected, validated, and consolidated from the Flora of Saskatchewan Association (FOSA) and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) datasets, resulting in 277 specimen-based occurrences. Applying a novel assessment approach, target Carex species were classified as follows: Critically Endangered (CR) – six taxa, Endangered (EN) – four, Vulnerable (VU) – eight, Near Threatened (NT) – three, Least Concern (LC) – 24, and Data Deficient (DD) – four. This allowed for a substantial reduction to a list of rare sedges compiled by the Saskatchewan Conservation Data Centre (SKCDC) from 40 species (38.1% in the genus) to 21 species (20.0%). In terms of territorial protection, rare sedges (CR, EN, VU and NT conservation categories) have been recorded only in 13 or 4.0% of protected areas in Saskatchewan. Most sedges (12 species or 57.1%) have no recorded occurrences in the protected areas. This group is followed by five species (23.8%) found in a single protected area, three species (14.3%) recorded in two protected areas, and one species (4.76%) observed in three protected areas. Anthropogenic land use changes such as agriculture, urbanization, and industrial activities are the major threats to sedges in Saskatchewan. An effective action plan for the conservation of Carex species is crucial to reduce threats to this group of plants. Our results provide a scientiﬁc basis for the long-term conservation of sedge diversity in Saskatchewan.
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Archaeology and Natural History"]

Soil macroarthropod communities of Amazon degraded pastures restore differently during their natural regrowth
Understanding the recovery of soil macroarthropod communities during natural regrowth is crucial to demonstrate complete soil restoration. This is because these organisms can play a key role in shaping soil structure and community dynamics, making them essential to understanding these processes. This study investigates the recovery of soil macroarthropod diversity, density, and biomass across different stages of natural regrowth, focusing on the taxonomic groups and feeding guilds dynamics. Macroarthropod communities were analyzed along a chronosequence (young-age, middle-age, and old-growth) including their vertical distribution (litter, 0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm). A total of 20 plots and 100 Tropical Soil Biology and Fertility Programme (TSBF) soil monoliths were sampled. Results revealed an increase in total macroarthropod diversity, biomass, and density with regrowth, but these patterns do not occur in the same way for all macroarthropod groups, emphasizing the complexity of ecological succession. Termites were key ecosystem engineers, shaping community composition at each regrowth stage. Predators and decomposers also exhibited significant changes in response to regrowth, reflecting their sensitivity to ecological disturbances. In contrast, ants and some herbivores showed higher densities and biomass in pastures and early regrowth stages, with notable shifts in species composition over time. Vertical distribution of macroarthropods revealed higher activity at the 0–10 cm depth, with similarities in the composition in litter and 10–20 cm soil depth, highlighting soil microarthropod importance in soil mineralization and humification. These findings underscore the critical role of ecosystem engineers in soil restoration and highlight the need for the conservation of soil biology to enhance soil health.
["Density"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Predation on endangered mussels by invasive raccoons: a case study from western Poland
The raccoon Procyon lotor is an invasive alien carnivorous mammal whose impact on populations of native species in Europe is poorly understood. Raccoon populations are rising both in range and density, which increases predation pressure. The raccoon is a food opportunist and its impact on local animal populations depends on the availability of food, especially during the critical winter period. In the winter of 2020–2021, we observed an extreme accumulation of empty shells of native mussels (Bivalvia, Unionidae) foraged by raccoons in the Lubuskie Lakeland in western Poland. The aim of this study was to determine whether mussels could be an important food source for raccoons during the difficult winter period in areas where they have been introduced. We hypothesised that raccoons would prefer thin-shelled mussels over thick-shelled species as their food. We identified the mussel species and estimated their numbers in the piles of shells found on the small river banks. The raccoons’ prey consisted of 2,340 mussels belonging to three genera (Anodonta, Pseudanodonta, Unio) and five species (Anodonta cygnea, Anodonta anatina, Unio pictorum, Unio tumidus, Pseudanodonta complanata). Two of them, the Anodonta cygnea and Pseudanodonta complanata, have the status of endangered species in Poland and are red listed by IUCN respectively as Vulnerable (VU) in Europe and Endangered (EN) globally.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

First record for an alien oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense (De Haan, 1849) (Decapoda, Palaemonidae) distribution in the lower Danube, Bulgarian part confirmed with DNA barcoding
The alien species Macrobrachium nipponense (De Haan, 1849), known as the oriental river prawn, has been identified in the Bulgarian part of the Lower Danube for the first time, based on morphological characteristics and DNA barcoding. Four specimens were caught in October 2023 in the Danube River near Pozharevo island (422.2 rkm). The diagnosis of the species was based on the number of the teeth on the dorsal and ventral side of the rostrum, the large size of the second pair of pereopods, and the presence of the hepatic spine. A fragment of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene of mitochondrial DNA was sequenced to supplement species identification. Phylogenetic analysis has revealed a high genetic similarity (over 99%) between the Bulgarian sample and samples from various geographic locations (Ukraine, China, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, and Russia). The record of the oriental river prawn confirms its expansion and successful naturalization in the Lower Danube region. The invasion of the species will probably affect the structure of benthic macroinvertebrate communities and represent a high risk to native species, which necessitates long-term monitoring of species’ impact on Danube River ecosystems.
["Bioinvasion"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Artificial breeding of the hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata, in a captive facility in the Republic of Korea
Captive breeding has been conducted across various regions to restore globally endangered sea turtle populations. However, understanding how turtles adapt to artificial breeding environments that differ considerably from their natural habitats remains underexplored. This study focused on the artificial breeding of two male and two female hawksbill turtles, Eretmochelys imbricata, in a controlled facility in the Republic of Korea, isolated from the outdoor environment and located far north of their natural nesting grounds. The main objectives were to document the entire breeding process while identifying limitations in the breeding methods and suggesting improvements. During the study period, the hawksbill turtles laid 864 eggs across 10 clutches, resulting in 83 hatchlings. The mean fertilization rate was 33%, whereas hatching success rates were 10% and 32% for the number of total laid eggs and fertile eggs, respectively. A female turtle laid eggs two-and-a-half years after post-mating, demonstrating that hawksbill turtles can utilize long-term sperm storage for laying eggs in subsequent breeding seasons without additional mating. Enhancing captive breeding methods is crucial for improving the efficiency of sea turtle population recovery and expanding our understanding of their ecological characteristics.
["Captive breeding"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Influence of land use intensity on ecological corridors and wildlife crossings’ effectiveness: comparison of 2 pilot areas in Austria
Human development and induced activities significantly affect the natural functioning of ecosystems and hence landscape connectivity. Ecological corridors are essential for maintaining structural as well as functional connectivity in cultural landscapes for wildlife, while providing interchange between core areas. In two pilot areas in the north-western and eastern part of Austria, ecological corridors were delineated using a geographic information system (GIS). The pilot areas are key to preserving ecological connectivity and are located along important international migration corridors (Bohemian Forest-Northern Alps corridor, Alpine-Carpathian corridor). Both areas are situated in highly human-altered and therefore dissected as well as fragmented landscapes. A one-year monitoring campaign using camera traps was carried out at selected locations along proposed ecological corridors in the cultural landscape and at wildlife crossings structures (WCSs) at intersections with road infrastructure. The monitoring was focused on mammals with a total of 18 species being observed. The most abundant species were roe deer, European hare and wild boar. European otter, European beaver, golden jackal and wildcat have only rarely been observed. Mammal species richness was positively correlated with the presence of vegetation cover and the coefficient of ecological stability (CES). The insights obtained can be used for recommendations and support in planning the planting of vegetation (use of grasslands, scattered and continuous woody vegetation, agroforestry systems) on the sites and in the vicinity of ecological corridors. The green bridges (wildlife overpasses) were used more frequently as well as by a larger number of mammal species compared to other studied WCSs showing characteristics that are less favourable for animals. The effectiveness of WCSs is mainly influenced by human activities, resulting in the recommendation to limit them on WCSs located along the routes of ecological corridors. We point out that actual wildlife migration corridors are likely to differ from designated data-driven ecological corridors generated by spatially explicit models, because these generally do not take into account all factors relating to the effectiveness of corridors. Our results suggest, that the application of the concept of functional connectivity is able to enhance the quality of ecological corridor designations, since usually they are based only on the concept of structural connectivity. For this reason, further studies are needed to help understanding factors and their specificities influencing the interplay between structural and functional connectivity of ecological corridors.
["Alpine-Carpathian corridor"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

Use of linear transportation infrastructure rights-of-way as an ecological shelter: National asset estimate and stakeholder involvement
For a number of years, the rights-of-way (ROW) of several types of linear transportation infrastructure (LTI), such as roads, railways, waterways and power lines, have been regarded as possible shelter for biodiversity, notably local flora and entomofauna. For developing an informed general management policy of such an opportunity for species conservation and landscape connectivity, a fundamental prerequisite is to be aware of the ecological shelter potential available within LTI rights-of-way on a national scale. By considering the primary operating constraints of LTIs and their geometric characteristics, a GIS-based method was designed to approximate the linear extent and surface area of potential ecological shelter (PES), i.e. where actions could be implemented to provide sustainable shelter focused on local flora and entomofauna. At the scale of Metropolitan France, the minimum total surface area of PES amounts to 2,026 km2; and its network spans over 88,094 km (39% power lines, 34% railways, 18% roads and 9% waterways). The State is the primary landowner of PES along operated networks (particularly railways) however over half of the assets (53.8%) fall under the responsibility of local authorities, concessionary companies and private landowners (notably power lines). These findings highlight the necessary involvement of State together with LTI operators, local stakeholders and landowners through partnerships aiming to implement the ecological shelter function of rights-of-way.
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Environmental Conservation and Management", "Land Use and Ecosystem Services"]

Invertebrate-biased diet of burrowing owls in a newly-restored coastal grassland
Recovering biodiversity across trophic levels is a major challenge in restoration ecology. Specifically, predator population recovery depends on the timely re-establishment of their preferred prey species in restored habitats. Here, we evaluate potential dietary factors contributing to the loss of western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea (Bonaparte, 1825)) from a newly-restored coastal grassland. We examined owl pellets and found that burrowing owl diets were relatively low in vertebrate prey during their brief occupation of the restoration site (2.6% of prey items; found in 61.8% of sampled pellets). We suggest that preferred food limitation may have been one contributor to the loss of owls from the restoration site. These findings suggest the need to prioritise re-establishment of prey communities for effective long-term recovery of burrowing owls in restored landscapes.
["Athene cunicularia"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Cymbidium kanran can deceptively attract Apis cerana for free pollination by releasing specialized volatile compounds
Cymbidium kanran is classified as a second-level protected plant in China and is also listed in the World Genetic Conservation Plant Registry. Pollen flow is an important factor influencing the genetic structure of plant populations, holding significant relevance in the conservation of endangered plants. In this study, we present a comprehensive exploration of the pollination biology of Cymbidium kanran, encompassing investigations into its flowering phenology, breeding system, floral volatile components, and interactions with pollinating insects. The results showed that: 1) C. kanran exclusively relies on external pollination mechanisms, as automatic self-pollination or apomixis mechanisms are conspicuously absent. Consequently, the natural fruit set rate is significantly lower compared to artificial pollination, highlighting a pronounced pollination limitation. 2) Apis cerana emerges as the primary effective pollinating insect for C. kanran, adeptly carrying both pollinia and anther caps during the pollination process. Notably, C. kanran does not provide any rewards, such as nectar or edible pollen, to entice the pollinators. 3) Contrary to expectations, our glass cylinder experiment demonstrates that the flower color of C. kanran lacks significant attractiveness to pollinators (p=0.1341>0.05). However, the scent emitted by the flowers exhibits considerable allure (p=0.0004<0.05), despite C. kanran boasting one of the most diverse color variations within the Cymbidium genus. 4) Based on dynamic fluctuations in floral volatile components during different flowering stages, we hypothesize that hexanal, heptanal, octanal, 2-pentyl furan, 4-methyl-2-pentanone, and 1,4-cyclooctadiene may serve as pivotal volatile compounds responsible for attracting pollinators. This study establishes a robust scientific foundation for the conservation efforts concerning C. kanran, thereby facilitating the sustainable management and protection of its wild resources.
["Apis cerana"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Reproductive Biology"]

Rubus plicatus Weihe & Nees: resilience to pollution caused by stone quarries
This study aimed to analyze the effect of pollution caused by stone quarries on the morpho-anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology of a medicinal wild bramble Rubus plicatus Weihe & Nees. Samples were collected from two natural protected areas: Iron Gates Natural Park and Jiu Gorge National Park, both located in the southwestern part of Romania, and two unpolluted areas from these parks as background sites. We carried out the following analyses on the collected leaves of this taxon: morphology, micromorphology, anatomy, assimilating pigments, heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Cr, Fe), dry mass, bioactive compounds (total phenols and flavonoids), and antioxidant capacity. The results showed more stomata, higher amounts of assimilating pigments, higher amounts of heavy metals (especially lead), less dry mass, less phenols, and more flavonoids in Rubus plicatus leaves from polluted areas compared to areas without sources of pollution. The increased number of stomata and the amounts of assimilator pigments revealed the mechanisms developed by this species in order to survive in polluted conditions.
["Chlorophyll"]
["Berry genetics and cultivation research", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research", "Plant Physiology and Cultivation Studies"]

Paleoclimate changes and ecosystem responses of the Bulgarian Black Sea zone during the last 26000 years
Multi-proxy analysis (spore-pollen, dinoflagellate cysts, other non-pollen palynomorphs (NPPs), radiocarbon dating and lithology) was performed on marine sediments from three new cores retrieved during the two cruise expeditions on board the Research Vessel “Akademik” in 2009 and 2011. The Varna transect comprises three cores extending from the outer shelf, continental slope and deep-water zone. The record spans the last 26000 years (all ages obtained in this study are given in calendar years BP (cal. yrs BP)). The pollen record reveals the spreading of steppe vegetation dominated by Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae, suggesting cold and dry environments during the Late Pleniglacial – Oldest Dryas (25903–15612 cal. yrs BP). Stands of Pinus and Quercus reflect warming/humidity increase during the melting pulses (19.2–14.5 cal. ka BP) and the Late Glacial interstadials Bølling and Allerød. The Younger Dryas (13257–11788 cal. yrs BP) coldest and driest environments are clearly demonstrated by the maximum relative abundance of Artemisia and Chenopodiaceae. During the Early Holocene (Preboreal and Boreal chronozones, 11788–8004 cal. yrs BP), Quercus appeared as a pioneer species and, along with other temperate deciduous arboreal taxa, formed open deciduous forests as a response to the increased temperature. The rapid expansion of these taxa indicates that they survived in Glacial refugia in the coastal mountains. During the Atlantic chronozone (8004–5483 cal. yrs BP), optimal climate conditions (high humidity and increased mean annual temperatures) stimulated the establishment of species-rich mixed temperate deciduous forests. During the Subboreal chronozone (5483–2837 cal. yrs BP), Carpinus betulus and Fagus expanded simultaneously and became more important components of mixed oak forests and probably also formed separate communities. During the Subatlantic chronozone (2837 cal. yrs BP to pre-industrial time), climate-driven changes (an increase of humidity and a cooling of the climate) appear to be the main drivers of the specific vegetation succession expressed by increased abundance of Alnus, Fraxinus excelsior and Salix along with lianas, suggesting formation of flooded riparian forests (so called ‘Longoz’) lining the river valleys along the Black Sea coast. The first indicators of farming and other human activities have been recorded since 7074 cal. yrs BP. The dinoflagellate cyst (dinocyst) assemblages have been analysed to assess the changes in the Black Sea environment over the last 26000 years in terms of fluctuation in paleoproduction and surface water conditions related to changes in climate, freshwater input and Mediterranean water intrusion. Two major dinocyst assemblages were distinguished: one dominated by stenohaline freshwater/brackish-water species and a successive one dominated by euryhaline marine species. The changes in the composition of the assemblages occurred at 7668 cal. yrs BP. The abrupt decrease of stenohaline freshwater/brackish-water species Pyxidinopsis psilata and Spiniferites cruciformis was followed upwards by a gradual increase in euryhaline marine species, such as Lingulodinium machaerophorum, Spiniferites belerius, S. bentorii and acritarch Cymatiosphaera globulosa. The first occurrence of euryhaline marine species took place synchronously with the onset of sapropel deposition. Modern marine conditions were established after 6417 cal yrs BP when an abundance of Mediterranean-related species, such as Operculodinium centrocarpum and Spiniferites mirabilis, along with other heterotrophic species, occurred. After the stable cold and dry environment during the Last Glacial Maximum, the phytoplankton record of core AKAD 11-17 shows that Pediastrum boryanum var. boryanum has a cyclical abundance associated with the deposition of four red-brown clay layers between 19.2 and 14.5 cal. ka BP. This event is associated with the major melting phase of European Ice drained by the Danube and Dnieper Rivers in response to climate warming observed after the end of the Last Glacial Maximum. During the Early Holocene, P. psilata, characterised by a preference to warmer temperatures, demonstrates its ecological optimum for growth concerning SST reaching maximum relative abundance of 94% between 11072 and 8638 cal. yrs BP. This maximum was interrupted by an abrupt significant short-term decrease in the relative abundance of P. psilata centred between 8500 and 8300 cal. yrs BP reflecting cold conditions similar to those of Younger Dryas. This finding, also confirmed by the rapid significant decrease of arboreal pollen, particularly of Quercus in the same studied core, is considered a regional expression of the well-known ‘8.2 ka cold event’ which is commonly linked to a meltwater-related perturbation of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and associated collapse of oceanic northward heat transport. Our fossil pollen and dinocyst data confirm that the high amplitude temperature anomaly associated with ‘the 8.2 ka cold event’ may have also occurred in south-eastern Europe, at lower latitudes of the western Black Sea coastal area, most probably due to atmospheric transition and/or river discharge.
["Dinoflagellate cyst"]
["Marine and environmental studies", "Soil and Environmental Studies", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

The greater the proportion of Robinia pseudoacacia in a stand the greater its effect on the population characteristics of Erythronium dens-canis
Management of invasive alien plants is an increasing problem throughout the world. In some cases native rare or protected species can appear or even prefer habitats dominated by invasive alien plants, which raises questions about the optimal treatment of such areas. Erythronium dens-canis in Hungary is a protected species which only have several occurrences in the country and a number of these populations situated in Robinia pseudoacacia stands developed after harvesting native forests. In this study a total of five populations of E. dens-canis were surveyed between 2020 and 2022 in southwestern Hungary examining and comparing the ongoing demographic changes under native and Robinia stands by monitoring individual plants. Two populations were situated in forests composed of native tree species, two in Robinia pseudoacacia-dominated stands and one in a Robinia-native tree species mixed stand. We categorized the plants into five age-state categories: dormant, seedling, juvenile, vegetative adult, and reproductive adult. We found some considerable differences (e.g. leaf size, reproduction rate) between the populations situated in native and in Robinia stands, whereas the population in mixed forest showed intermediate character in most examined factors. Based on our results, R. pseudoacacia have a significant effect on the phenology and life history of E. dens-canis, and this effect is greater with higher proportion of R. pseudoacacia in a forest stand where the E. dens-canis occurs.
["Endangered species"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Bioenergy crop production and management", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Environmental characteristics, including soil and vegetation composition, in relation to the occurrence patterns of an endangered lizard, Eremias argus, in a fluvial island, South Korea
Eremias argus, known as the Mongolian racerunner, is a reptile that has been designated as a level II endangered species in South Korea since 2005 despite being listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Particular vegetation and soil characteristics are critical components of the habitat of E. argus, which is an ectotherm. However, research on the environmental characteristics of E. argus living on a fluvial island is lacking. This study sought to characterize the soil environmental factors and vegetation composition of E. argus habitats on Doriseom Island, South Korea by dividing the island into an area in which E. argus occurred frequently (F zone) and an area in which E. argus occurred rarely (R zone). Both soil hardness and cobble cover were significantly higher in the R zone (soil hardness: 1.6 ± 0.2 kg‧cm-2, mean ± standard error; cobble cover: 40 ± 5%) than in the F zone (soil hardness: 0.9 ± 0.1 kg‧cm-2; cobble cover: 18 ± 3%). Plant litter cover did not differ significantly based on E. argus occurrence. The vegetation composition within F and R zones appeared distinct, though Coreopsis lanceolata dominated both zones. A sand dune sedge, Carex pumila, thrived in F zone sites, where soil hardness was low, while the endemic Aster danyangensis, which prefers cobble areas, was found largely in the R zone. In conclusion, E. argus was most commonly found in areas with low soil hardness dominated by dune vegetation. Understanding endangered species’ habitat requirements can provide important clues for establishing conservation plans and restoration measures.
["Cobble cover"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Ecology and Conservation Studies"]

﻿Lost in hostile lands: moths of conservation concern in cultivated and suburban areas of south Italy
Cultivated and suburban areas are usually considered unfavourable to the vulnerable components of biodiversity and regarded as not interesting from a conservation point of view. However, remnants of semi-natural vegetation can be embedded in such areas, becoming possible refuges for wild biodiversity despite the high anthropogenic pressures. With the present study, we raise awareness that, in some cases, these areas can be regarded as biodiversity treasure chests, even when apparently poor and with low appeal for conservationists. We demonstrate the importance of urbanised and cultivated landscapes by providing new records of two lepidopteran species rare for the Italian Peninsula, namely Amphipyra (Pyrois) cinnamomea and Boudinotiana notha. The European range of A. cinnamomea has become strongly reduced, seeming extinct in some Central European regions and the few Italian records mostly date back several decades. B. notha has very few relict populations in Mediterranean Europe, some of which are in peninsular Italy, where it is threated by urbanisation and reduced precipitations expected in the next decades. Our findings confirm the importance of small and highly fragmented patches of semi-natural vegetation for biodiversity conservation, as they can allow species of conservation interest to persist in hostile lands.
["Amphipyra cinnamomea"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Vegetation changes along an urbanisation and atmospheric pollution gradient in Mexico
Green areas are important places for biodiversity conservation within cities, but their vegetation is affected by various anthropogenic factors. This study used an exploratory approach to examine the influence of urbanisation and air pollution-related factors on the indicators for the composition and structure of vegetation in an urban area in northeast Mexico. Based on the spatial analysis of the major air pollutants, four sampling categories were delimited (rural, low, moderate and high urbanisation). The differences between categories, based on vegetation structure, were determined using non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis tests. The Importance Value was calculated for the species. The floristic similarity was compared using NMDS and PERMANOVA unidirectional. The relationship between environmental variables and abundance of species was evaluated using CCA. One hundred and ten plant species were collected, including ten alien species. The highest abundance and species richness were registered in the rural site. The general tendency of vegetation structure is to plants decreasing with respect to the increase in the levels of urbanisation and air pollution present in the study area. The association between the environmental variables and plant communities along the urbanisation gradient was significant, being the relative humidity, the particles lower than 2.5 μm, the dew point and the heat index as the most important variables. The understanding of the nature and variability of vegetation within green areas contributes to increasing our knowledge about the distribution of the environmental services they provide and the composition of the faunal communities that depend on them. For this reason, this study relates the plants of a specific area of northeast Mexico with the environmental quality present in an urban area.
["air pollution"]
["Land Use and Ecosystem Services", "Urban Green Space and Health", "Urban Heat Island Mitigation"]

﻿Small reserve but high diversity: butterfly community across an altitudinal gradient in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
The present study aimed to describe the composition of the butterfly community in relation to the altitudinal gradient in the Reserva Particular do Patrimônio Natural (RPPN) Alto-Montana, Serra da Mantiqueira, Minas Gerais, Brazil, and to provide a list of species for the area. We collected samples in the RPPN Alto-Montana along an altitudinal gradient from 1400 to 2100 m, between the dry and rainy seasons of 2018 and 2019. During this period, the sampling method utilizing Van-Someren Rydon traps totaled 3,936 hours and the effort using sweep nets totaled 246 hours. A total of 1,253 butterflies distributed across 124 species and six families of diurnal butterflies were observed (Hesperiidae, Lycaenidae, Nymphalidae, Papilionidae, Pieridae, and Riodinidae). Nymphalidae was the most representative family, followed by Hesperiidae, Pieridade, Lycaenidae, Papilionidae and Riodinidae. Moreover, we recorded 37 species with only one individual (singletons) and 20 species with only two individuals (doubletons), totalling 57 species, which corresponds to 46% of all sampled richness. The rarefaction curve did not reveal a tendency toward stabilization. However, the indices showed slightly higher values for the 124 species sampled. The analysis performed using the Bootstrap estimator predicted a total of 143.22 species (± 10.87 SE), with a further 19 additional species than observed. Chao 1 predicted 153.42 (± 11.82 SE), and Jackknife 1 predicted 164.00 (± 16.29 SE) species, with 29 and 40 additional species than the observed, respectively. Our study contributes to the knowledge of butterfly biodiversity in Serra da Mantiqueira and reveals a high species richness for the RPPN Alto Montana, especially considering the relatively small area. In addition, our study provides the first inventory of butterflies for the RPPN Alto Montana, thus supporting further studies investigating the butterfly richness in the Serra da Mantiqueira region. Finally, our findings of endemic, rare, and endangered butterfly species highlight the relevance of further conservation strategies to be considered for the Protected Area’s Management Plan.
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

﻿Hydrological regime and forest development have indirect effects on soil fauna feeding activity in Central European hardwood floodplain forests
Soil fauna act as regulators of decomposition processes via their feeding activity, thereby playing an important role in regulating carbon cycling and sequestration. Hardwood floodplain forests are critically endangered habitats, but strongly contribute to carbon sequestration in Central Europe. In the present study, within a floodplain forest-development programme, we investigated the feeding activity of soil fauna via the Bait Lamina test in hardwood floodplain forests of the middle Elbe River in Germany in sites with different hydrological regimes and forest-development stages, with neighbouring grassland sites for comparison. While statistically significant differences in overall feeding activity between general hydrological regimes or forest development stages were not found, decreases in feeding activity with soil depth were strongly modulated by these factors, indicating more unfavourable conditions for soil fauna at increasing soil depth due to, e.g., anoxic conditions in floodplains of tributaries or low soil moisture content below the shallow rooting zone of grasslands. Registered effects of soil texture on soil fauna feeding activity were dependent on forest-tree density, and combined effects indicate that soil-fauna feeding activity varies with soil temperature during spring, but with soil moisture in early autumn. In conclusion, our results highlight the importance of the current abiotic conditions on soil-fauna feeding activities in floodplain forests, i.e. soil temperature, moisture and ground water level. Hydrological regime and forest development have a strong impact on the effect of these conditions, indirectly affecting soil fauna feeding activity and highlighting the multifactorial influence on soil fauna functional activity to be considered in floodplain-forest restoration programs.
["Bait Lamina"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿First exhaustive distribution and habitat modelling of Morimus asper (Sulzer, 1776) sensu lato (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) in Bulgaria
Although Morimus asper, in particular the ssp. funereus, is considered as widespread throughout Bulgaria, a current national mapping of the species is missing. Thus, here we present the first exhaustive study on the distribution of M. asper in Bulgaria. Our research combined 967 georeferenced presence records from scientific publications, from the museum collection of the National Museum of Natural History-BAS, as well as authors’ and citizen scientists’ field observations. An Ecological Niche Model (ENM) was generated using software MaxEnt to identify the potential distribution of the species based on niche suitability. The potentially suitable area for the species was 26% of Bulgaria (29 059 km2). The main predictor variables in M. asper’s ENM assessed by а Jackknife test were the distance to mixed Fagus-Carpinus forests, the mean forest age, the mean tree height, the maximal temperature during the hottest month and the altitude. The percentage contribution to the model of the first two variables was also the largest – respectively 40% and 11%. The remaining variables contributed less than 10% each. Furthermore, we recommend some changes to the current species monitoring methodology to the National Biodiversity Monitoring System.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Promoting private forests for biodiversity conservation and ecosystems restoration in the Sahel region
Private forests have the potential to mitigate biodiversity loss and improve community livelihoods. However, information on the socio-ecological factors that drive their establishment and long-term management are limited. This study aimed to narrow this gap by assessing the potential of privately-owned forests in conserving biodiversity and supporting the livelihoods of communities in northern Burkina Faso. Floristic data were collected within 26 plots (900 m2 each) equally distributed between private Gourga forest, established in 1980) and its adjacent communal areas. Sixty-three (63) private landowners were interviewed in order to underpin their motivations and associated traditional knowledge and a stakeholder’s workshop was conducted to develop conservation models for private forests and participatory implementation roadmap. Findings revealed that species richness was 132 in the Gourga forest and 85 in the communal areas, highlighting the importance of private forest in species conservation. Local communities recognized the provisioning (36.46%), regulating (28.46%) and supporting (22.48%) of ecosystem services provided by the Gourga forest as motivating factors. The main barriers to their establishment and management include lack of financial resources (35%), scarce lands (26%) and human pressures (8%). The implementation of private forests will need to be supported by the enactment of a secure land tenure policy, as well as payment for ecosystem services (PES) policies, incentivizing locals. We suggest decision makers mainstream privately-owned lands into national conservation strategies and design incentives policies to motivate local communities’ engagement.
["Burkina Faso"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Conservation, Biodiversity, and Resource Management", "Agriculture and Rural Development Research"]

﻿Using drone imagery to obtain population data of colony-nesting seabirds to support Canada’s transition to the global Key Biodiversity Areas program
Identifying of global or national biodiversity ‘hotspots’ has proven important for focusing and prioritizing conservation efforts worldwide. Canada has nearly 600 Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) identified by quantitative criteria to help guide avian conservation and management. Marine IBAs capture critical waterbird habitats such as nesting colonies, foraging sites, and staging areas. However, due to their remote locations, many lack recent population counts. Canada has begun transitioning IBAs into the global Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA) program; KBAs identify areas that are important for the persistence of biodiversity and encompass a wider scope of unique, rare, or vulnerable taxa. Assessing whether IBAs qualify as KBAs requires current data – as will future efforts to manage these biologically important sites. We conducted a pilot study in the Chain Islets and Great Chain Island IBA, in British Columbia, to assess the effectiveness of using drones to census surface-nesting seabirds in an IBA context. This IBA was originally designated for supporting a globally significant breeding colony of Glaucous-winged Gulls (Larus glaucescens). Total nest counts derived from orthomosaic imagery (1012 nesting pairs) show that this site now falls below the Global and National IBA designation criterion threshold, a finding consistent with regional declines in the species. Our trial successfully demonstrates a flexible and low cost approach to obtaining population data at an ecologically sensitive KBA site. We explore how drones will be a useful tool to assess and monitor species and habitats within remote, data-deficient IBAs, particularly during the transition to KBAs.
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Remote Sensing and LiDAR Applications", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿The trail less traveled: Envisioning a new approach to identifying key food resources for threatened Hawaiian arboreal snails
Our understanding of Hawaiian arboreal snails’ diets remains rudimentary, hindering the development of effective conservation strategies. To identify important food resources, we tested the hypothesis that epiphytic microbial assemblages differ on plant species preferred and avoided by snails at Mt. Kaala Natural Area Reserve, where snail plant preferences are known from previous studies. Comparing microbial assemblages on plants that snails both prefer and avoid was identified as a potentially key step to moving research away from characterizing which microbes snails encounter, towards testing if microbial assemblages are driving snail plant preferences. We found that fungal and bacterial assemblages differed between plant species preferred and avoided by snails, indicating that Hawaiian arboreal snails may be selecting plants based on their epiphytic microbial assemblages. Previous microbes thought to be important, Cladosporium spp., propagated in captive rearing facilities, and Botryosphaeria spp., preferred fungi in a feeding experiment, were both rare and had similar abundances on preferred and avoided plant species in Mt. Kaala. Our approach, conducting preference studies before isolating microbes, is key to identifying arboreal snail food resources and improves our ability to identify microbes that form the foundation of Hawaiian arboreal snails’ diet. If we can identify important food resources, it greatly expands our ability to: (1) assess and monitor habitat quality, (2) make informed restoration recommendations, and (3) improve rearing efforts for highly endangered captive reared populations.
["bacteria"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Important plant areas (IPAs) in the Fergana Valley (Central Asia): The Bozbu-Too-Ungortepa massif
This paper discusses identifying Important Plant Areas (IPAs) in one of the most densely populated regions of Central Asia—the Fergana valley. The recognition of IPA sites is an attempt to introduce new ways of conserving local plant diversity with a high concentration of endemic species in Central Asia, where conservation methods of the former Soviet Union still prevail. The research revealed the current state and geography of many rare species and enriched the flora of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan with several rare species. The second IPA is the transboundary territory of the Fergana valley, uniting the southern spurs of the Chatkal range and the Ungortepa-BozbuToo massif. We documented the distribution of 62 species in the IPAs under the sub-criteria of Plantlife International. Our study aimed at continuing studies on the IPAs in this region, addressing specific conservation challenges, such as conserving national endemics and endangered species that grow outside protected areas and GIS mapping of endemic species.
["Central Asia"]
["Rangeland Management and Livestock Ecology", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Soil and Environmental Studies"]

﻿Reencounter with the past: occurrence of sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis) in an old hunting area in the south-eastern Pacific Ocean
The sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis) was intensively exploited throughout its range, with about 110.000 individuals hunted by pelagic fleets in Antarctic waters between 1960 and 1970. In addition, basic information on its distribution, migratory routes, and feeding grounds in the southeastern Pacific, has been poorly documented. In the case of Chile, recent information consists mainly of accidental records. This research presents the first sei whale photo-identification catalog for south-central Chile. From November 2019 to January 2020, 88 individuals were recorded from land-based and boat surveys at Caleta Chome. Of these, 12 individuals were photo-identified through scars or distinctive notches in the dorsal fins. The peak of sightings occurred during December 2019; two individuals were sighted on more than one occasion.
["Balaenoptera borealis"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿First insight into freshwater fish assemblages in the western part of the Endau-Rompin landscape, Malaysia
In Malaysia, our knowledge of freshwater ecosystem and its aquatic inhabitants, particularly freshwater fish, remains inadequate, even in protected regions. It is essential to understand the composition of freshwater fish, their distribution along river gradients, and their interactions between environmental variables to develop and strategize effective conservation and management plans. Consequently, an investigation into freshwater fish assemblages in three rivers draining off from the western part of Endau-Rompin Landscape was conducted in 12 established substations. Sampling sessions were conducted from September to December 2021 in the Labis district of Johor, using multiple sampling methods along 200 meters for each substation. The environmental variables were measured using water quality parameters. A total of 66 species were collected. The family Cyprinidae presented the highest species diversity (17 species), constituting 52% of total capture. Crossocheilus obscurus was the most dominant species, and the highest species richness was recorded in the Segamat River (45 species), followed by Juaseh (36 species) and Labis River (34 species). It was discerned that the composition of fish varied between the substations. The knowledge presented here is the first documentation on the freshwater fish from these rivers. It would serve as a baseline information for key authorities and stakeholders to conserve the biodiversity inhabiting freshwater ecosystems in Malaysia.

﻿Biogeographic assessment of Gorgonian-associated bacteria with antipathogenic Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Karimunjawa Marine National Park, Java Sea, Indonesia
Gorgonian corals of Karimunjawa are impacted by anthropogenic activities, such as increasingly high mariculture intensity with consequent eutrophication, overfishing, tourism, sewage, and other pollutant discharges, which result in changes in the microbial community structure. In this study, bacterial communities associated with six species of Gorgonian, Viminella sp., Ellisella sp., Antipathes sp., Melithaea sp., Astrogorgia sp., and Junceella sp. from both the Marine Protected Area (MPA) and non-Marine Protected Area (non-MPA) zones were screened for their antipathogenic potential against Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) pathogens. The selected bacterial isolates were identified and compared for their abundance and diversity between the two zones. A total of 156 bacterial strains were assayed for their prospective antipathogenic compounds against seven UTI pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus saptophyticus, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Candida albicans. The results showed that 17 of 92 (18.48%) and 6 of 64 (9.37%) bacterial isolates from MPA and non-MPA, respectively, exhibited antimicrobial activity in at least one of the UTI pathogens. By analyzing the gene of 16S rRNA, it was discovered that the 17 isolates of MPA were associated with phyla Actinobacteria, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, including Streptomyces zhaozhoue, Nocardiopsis salina, Micrococcus endophyticus, Brevibacterium casei, Micrococcus yunnanensis, Saccharopolyspora coralli, Bacillus paramycoides, Virgibacillus salarius, Oceanobacillus iheyensis, and Vibrio alginolyticus. In contrast, only six selected isolates of non-MPA were associated with the phyla Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria, including Nocardiopsis salina, Micrococcus yunnanensis, and Acinetobacter soli. The Diversity Index (H’), Species Richness (S), and Relative Abundance of the MPA zone were higher than those of non-MPA. These results demonstrated that Gorgonian octocoral species in the MPA region harbour varied bacteria and we propose that many Gorgonian-associated bacteria have the prospective for advancing broad-spectrum antibiotics.
["antimicrobial activity"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

﻿Important plant areas (IPAs) in the Fergana Valley (Central Asia): The badlands of the northern foothills
Here, we aimed to identify important plant areas (IPAs) in the Fergana Valley, one of the most densely human-populated regions in Central Asia with a diverse array of endemic and endangered species. The IPA programme in FV aims to identify and protect a global network of plant conservation sites. We conducted a field survey from 2018 to 2021 to re-identify specimens collected from Fergana Valley and stored at the National Herbarium of Uzbekistan (TASH). An analysis of the floristic, geobotanical and collected data allowed for the identification of the badlands in the northern foothills (Chap tract and surrounding areas) as an IPA site. We modified the interpretation of criterion A for IPAs to suit the circumstances of Mountainous Central Asia and documented the distribution of 29 species in the IPAs under these sub-criteria. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify an IPA in Uzbekistan and provide geographic coordinates with locations for the herbarium specimens used to create the IPA set for Central Asia. Our study provides a foundation for applying future IPAs in this region, addressing specific conservation challenges, such as conserving rare and endangered species that grow outside protected areas and GIS mapping of endemic species.
["Central Asia"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

﻿A rare shrub species as flagship for conserving desert steppe in arid Inner Mongolia
The rare species Amygdalus pedunculata Pall. (Rosaceae) in arid northern China is endangered to the point of extinction. Determined to save it, the local government of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region encouraged the herdsmen to limit grazing activities. Here, we are testing if this species could be considered as a conspicuous flagship for restoring and conserving wind-sensitive arid lands as desert steppe in northern China. We examined statistically the growing states and environmental roles of A. pedunculata populations under the comparative conditions of free and limited grazing in winter since the year 2001. This species was observed to play a critical role in preventing wind erosion and stabilising the lands, as was indicated by the formation of micro-dunes under the shrubs. This role can be attributed mainly to the crown diameters or cover from the shrubs. Under the grazing limitation condition, accompanying species and plants around the shrubs increased significantly. Regardless of free or limited grazing conditions, the shrubs were not observed to inhibit the occurrence or growth of other plants. The grazing limitation over a period of 20 years has caused the effective revival of the rare A. pedunculata species, with statistically larger and taller A. pedunculata individuals than under the free grazing condition, as well as a slightly higher population density and total crown cover. The grazing limitation policy for saving A. pedunculata is believed to be effective and the rare A. pedunculata shrub is a conspicuous flagship for helping to conserve wind-sensitive desert steppe in terms of ecosystem integrity and authenticity.
["Amygdalus pedunculata Pall. (\u67c4\u6241\u6843)"]
["Aeolian processes and effects", "Plant Ecology and Soil Science", "Rangeland Management and Livestock Ecology"]

﻿A test of wildlife warning reflectors as a way to reduce risk of wildlife-train collisions
Looking for an effective method to reduce risk of animal-train collisions, we tested the system of wildlife warning reflectors, a method usually used on roads. The research was conducted in central Poland, along a 2.1 km stretch of the E65 railway line near Warsaw, during eight months, in the years 2010–2011. For six months of a test period, the reflectors were uncovered (active) and, for the next two months of the control period, they were covered (non-active). Digital cameras were used to register animal reactions to trains 24-hours per day. We compared the probability of escape (escape = 1; no reaction = 0) from an oncoming train during test and control periods of the research, in different parts of a day (i.e. day vs. night) and compared escape time of roe deer between day and night and with reflectors covered and uncovered. Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and brown hare (Lepus europaeus) were observed most often (702 observations in total). The status of reflectors (covered/uncovered) did not influence the probability of animals’ escape from an oncoming train. The only factors that affected the probability of escape were animal species and time of a day. Of the three species, roe deer was most likely to escape from an oncoming train (89% of probability at day and 52% during night, pooled data for covered and uncovered reflectors). Timing of roe deer escape from an oncoming train did not differ between day (6.4 seconds) and night, with either reflectors covered (7.5 seconds) or uncovered (4.6 seconds). The results indicated that wildlife warning reflectors were not effective to modify animal behaviour and to reduce risk of animal-train collisions.
["Animal-train collisions"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

﻿Co-use of existing crossing structures along roads by wildlife and humans: Wishful thinking?
This study assesses existing human-purpose underpasses below an unfenced high-traffic 4-lane highway in the Appalachian region of Quebec, Canada, as potential crossing structures for native mammal species. Eight underpasses of three types (five water culverts with minimum height and width of 1.8 m, one low-use gravel road byway, and two railroad underpasses) were continuously monitored by motion-detection infrared camera traps for time periods spanning up to 778 days (September 2016 to November 2018). We asked how the ratios of successful crossings through the structures (termed full crossings) and aversions to the structures (termed aversions) differed between species and we explored the influence of human activity levels on the use of these structures by wildlife. All monitored crossing structures had low human observations (with averages of less than 35 human activities per day). Our results provide evidence that 21 species of mammals in the study area successfully crossed through at least one of the eight observed underpasses on a minimum of one occasion. Some species were observed crossing through some of the underpasses on a regular basis, namely raccoon, red fox, and white-tailed deer. We propose a classification of mammal species into five human co-use classes (no or low co-use to very high co-use) to explore the relationship between mammal use of the structures and human presence. We found that humans and mammals were observed sharing passages for the four mammal species identified as tolerant of human co-use (high and very high co-use classes), but co-use was observed to be limited or not occurring for most other species. The strengths of this study include the length of time during which monitoring took place, as well as the placement of four cameras at each structure (two facing inward and two facing outward) to determine whether individuals successfully crossed through the structures or displayed avoidance behaviour. The results suggest select species of mammals show some co-use with humans at existing underpasses. The activity patterns of mammals documented over the two-year study can assist with future estimates of highway permeability. Further, measurements of human and mammal co-use have species-specific implications for retrofitting existing structures and constructing wildlife fences and purpose-built wildlife passages.
["Camera traps"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Geographies of human-animal interactions"]

The effect of habitat reduction by roads on space use and movement patterns of an endangered species, the Cabrera vole Microtus cabrerae
Roads are among the most widespread signs of man’s presence around the globe. From simple low traffic trails to wide and highly used highways, roads have a wide array of effects on wildlife. In the present study, we tested how habitat reduction by roads may affect the space use and movement patterns of the Cabrera vole (Microtus cabrerae), a near-threatened Iberian endemism, often living on road verges. A total of 16 voles were successfully radio-tracked in two habitat patches with different size and proximity to roads. Results showed that individuals from the smaller patch (Verge patch) had smaller and less complex home-ranges than those from the larger patch (Meadow patch). Movement patterns were significantly influenced by the day period but only in individuals from the Verge patch. There was evidence of a barrier effect in both habitat patches, being this effect much more noticeable in the verge population. Overall, this study shows that space use and movement patterns of Cabrera voles near roads may be affected by the degree of habitat reduction imposed by these infrastructures. This suggests that species space use and movement patterns at fine-scale should be accounted for in road planning, even for species that may benefit from road verge habitats as refuges.
["Barrier effect"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Assessing behaviour states of a forest carnivore in a road-dominated landscape using Hidden Markov Models
Anthropogenic infrastructures and land-use changes are major threats to animal movements across heterogeneous landscapes. Yet, the behavioural consequences of such constraints remain poorly understood. We investigated the relationship between the behaviour of the Common genet (Genetta genetta) and road proximity, within a dominant mixed forest-agricultural landscape in southern Portugal, fragmented by roads. Specifically, we aimed to: (i) identify and characterise the behavioural states displayed by genets and related movement patterns; and (ii) understand how behavioural states are influenced by proximity to main paved roads and landscape features. We used a multivariate Hidden Markov Model (HMM) to characterise the fine-scale movements (10-min fixes GPS) of seven genets tracked during 187 nights (mean 27 days per individual) during the period 2016–2019, using distance to major paved roads and landscape features as predictors. Our findings indicated that genet’s movement patterns were composed of three basic behavioural states, classified as “resting” (short step-lengths [mean = 10.6 m] and highly tortuous), “foraging” (intermediate step-lengths [mean = 46.1 m] and with a wide range in turning angle) and “travelling” (longer step-lengths [mean = 113.7 m] and mainly linear movements). Within the genet’s main activity-period (17.00 h-08.00 h), the movement model predicts that genets spend 36.7% of their time travelling, 35.4% foraging and 28.0% resting. The probability of genets displaying the travelling state was highest in areas far away from roads (> 500 m), whereas foraging and resting states were more likely in areas relatively close to roads (up to 500 m). Landscape features also had a pronounced effect on behaviour state occurrence. More specifically, travelling was most likely to occur in areas with lower forest edge density and close to riparian habitats, while foraging was more likely to occur in areas with higher forest edge density and far away from riparian habitats. The results suggest that, although roads represent a behavioural barrier to the movement of genets, they also take advantage of road proximity as foraging areas. Our study demonstrates that the HMM approach is useful for disentangling movement behaviour and understanding how animals respond to roadsides and fragmented habitats. We emphasise that road-engaged stakeholders need to consider movement behaviour of genets when targeting management practices to maximise road permeability for wildlife.
["Behavioural barrier"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Welfare Studies"]

Speed thrills but kills: A case study on seasonal variation in roadkill mortality on National highway 715 (new) in Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape, Assam, India
Animal-vehicle collision on the roads is a major cause of mortality of a wide range of animal taxa both within and around protected areas. This study has been conducted in the National Highway 715 (new) covering a continuous stretch of 64 km that passes through Kaziranga National Park (KNP) of Assam (India). The area falls between the boundary of KNP on its north and North Karbi Anglong Wildlife sanctuary on the south. The survey concentrated on the mortality study of four groups of vertebrates viz., amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals resulting from collisions with vehicles from October 2016 through September, 2017. A total of 6036 individual roadkills were registered, belonging to 53 species, 23 other taxa and 30 families of vertebrates, with herpetofauna being the most affected group followed by birds and mammals. The study evaluated seasonal variation in the overall roadkill pattern with highest mortality in the monsoon season 38.27% (n = 2310) and with peak casualties starting with the onset of rainfall (February and March) and during monsoons (July and August). The amphibian mortality was also found to be highest during the monsoon with 43.28% (n = 1575) of kills, as compared to the other three groups. NH-715 (new), therefore serves as a challenging passage for the animals, forming a major barrier for the faunal component of the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape. This study thus tried to reflect the often overlooked issue of roads and highways in terms of direct mortality of animals due to traffic and thereby can be helpful in understanding the seriousness of the situation and identifying prospective measures to be taken for sustainable coexistence of both animals and human.
["Herpetofauna"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

﻿Waterbird assemblages of inland wetlands in Chile: A meta-analysis
Chile has a large number of wetlands that offer a wide variety of refuges and food to waterbird assemblages. This research hypothesises that these assemblages differ according to the structural characteristics of each type of inland wetland. The object is to identify the structure of these assemblages, evaluating their richness, alpha α diversity and some ecological characteristics, taxonomic structures and trophic guilds. We performed a meta-analysis by submitting pre-selected articles to multivariate reliability analysis. The selected articles were used to characterise the assemblages by alpha α diversity: species richness, Shannon-Wiener index, Pielou’s Evenness Index, relative abundance and taxonomic distinctiveness Δ + and beta β diversity: Bray-Curtis with analysis of similarity percentage. Diversity and evenness differed in the seven wetlands studied, among 12 to 45 species, Shannon-Wiener index H’= 0.08 to 0.94 bits and Pielou’s Evenness Index J’= 0.06 to 0.71. Four wetlands were below and three above the expected value for taxonomic distinctiveness (Δ +) (73.2 units). Two clusters were identified using the β diversity: one consisting of the High-Andean wetlands (Huasco and Negro Francisco); and the other of El Peral lagoon, the Cruces River wetlands complex and the Tranque San Rafael man-made wetland. The most remarkable dissimilarity was provided by three species (Cygnus melancoryphus, Phoenicoparrus jamesi and Phoenicoparrus andinus). Zoophagous species that eat invertebrates by the first choice are the dominant group, while in lagoon wetlands phytophages and omnivores are more evenly represented.
["Birds"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Evaluating the effectiveness of vegetation conservation on a sacred mountain in western China
Sacred natural sites, as probably the oldest form of habitat reserve for religious or cultural causes worldwide, are suggested to have an important role in conserving vegetation; however, there are insufficient data supporting the detailed implications of such sites for vegetation conservation. Thus, we evaluated the effectiveness of vegetation conservation on a Tibetan sacred mountain in Yajiang County, Sichuan, China, by investigating species richness and the structural attributes of higher vascular plant communities on and around the sacred mountain from April to June 2009. The results showed that the number of tree species on the sacred mountain was significantly higher than that in the surrounding area, but there were no notable differences in the numbers of shrub and grass species between the two sites. The sacred mountain harbored a greater number of small, short trees compared with the surrounding area, wherein the low-shrub and grass understory was relatively dense. We conclude that the sacred mountain has a positive impact on indigenous vegetation protection, but disparities in the management of the allowed uses of such sites could reduce their conservation effectiveness.
["Forest conservation"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Distribution range and population viability of Emys orbicularis in Slovakia: a review with conservation implications
The European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) is the only native freshwater turtle species in Slovakia. Due to watercourse regulations in the middle of the 20th century, its range became fragmented and, currently, there are only two isolated populations. From a total of 1,236 historical records in Slovakia, most observations (782 records) came from the area of the Tajba National Nature Reserve (NNR). Three of the population viability analysis models (‘baseline’, ‘catastrophe’, ‘nest protection during a catastrophe’) indicated the extinction of the population in Tajba, with the highest probability of extinction occurring during a catastrophic event (probability of extinction 1.00). We also evaluated information about the activity patterns of seven radio-tracked individuals and about the number of destroyed nests from the area. During the period 2017–2021, we recorded only two turtles leaving the aquatic habitat of Tajba. An alarming fact is the massive number of destroyed nests found in the area during the study period (Tajba 524; Poľany 56). Our results indicate that the population in the Tajba NNR require immediate application of management steps to ensure its long-term survival.
["Central Europe"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Structural diversity and conservation implications of Parrotia subaequalis (Hamamelidaceae), a rare and endangered tree species in China
Parrotia subaequalis (H. T. Chang) R.M. Hao & H.T. Wei is a rare and endangered Tertiary relict tree that is endemic to subtropical China. However, little is known about its growth condition and relationship with associated tree species. Here, for the first time we measured the structural diversity of P. subaequalis communities at three representative sites in eastern China using four structural indices, including mingling, tree-tree distance, and diameter and tree height differences. The results showed that: 1) Collectively, most P. subaequalis and associated tree species were small and mid-sized classes in tree height, and small-sized class in diameter; 2) There were two or more other tree species around most of P. subaequalis individuals across the three sites; 3) Overall, the mean distance between reference trees and their neighbors was mainly 1–2 m. Our results indicated that a strong interspecific competition existed between P. subaequalis and its associated tree species. Meanwhile, although the reference tree P. subaequalis had slight advantages in both horizontal and vertical planes, we think that it is necessary to take some effective measures to reduce the interspecific competition and thereby keep it at a proper successive stage. In addition, we also discuss the protection level of P. subaequalis in China, and propose to keep this species at the First-Grade State Protection.
["Competition"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

How do red deer react to increased visitor numbers? A case study on human-deer encounter probability and its effect on cortisol stress responses
The numbers of visitors to greenspaces in the United Kingdom has increased over the last few years as the health benefits of spending time in greenspaces have become better known. This has led to problems for conservation ecologists due to increased numbers of reported human-wildlife encounters. Deer are often found in public spaces and are of particular concern. Previous research suggests elevated levels of stress hormones (e.g., cortisol) in deer is a result of increased human activity. This has been linked to several negative effects on the deer’s health. From a practitioner’s point of view, it is therefore important to implement effective management strategies that are based on scientific evidence to help ensure the welfare of managed deer populations. In an effort to identify the impact of visitor numbers on faecal cortisol concentrations, samples from 2 red deer (Cervus elaphus) herds in Lyme Park (Cheshire), United Kingdom, were collected and analysed. A predictive spatial model was developed based on logistic regression to identify areas within the park of low and high human-deer encounter probability. The faecal cortisol levels were found to be significantly higher on days with a high number of visitors. In addition, landscape features such as buildings and roads increased the probability of human-deer encounters, whereas woodland and scrub decreased the probability. However, human-deer encounter probability changed with distance to the features. By providing local park managers with this scientific data, these findings can directly inform current management efforts to reduce deer stress levels in Lyme Park. In addition, the spatial modelling method has the capacity to be implemented in other parks across the country with minimal cost and effort.
["Assay"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Welfare Studies", "Urban Green Space and Health"]

Mapping Rocky Mountain ridged mussel beds with preliminary identification of overlapping Eurasian watermilfoil within the Canadian range
The Rocky Mountain ridged mussel (Gonidea angulata) is a bivalve species whose Canadian range is limited to the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. In 2019, conflicts between habitat protection for the mussel and potential habitat alteration to control the invasive Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) (milfoil), led to a decision to maintain the status of the mussels as Special Concern under Canada’s Species at Risk Act (SARA) rather than classify it as Endangered. Milfoil control can cause direct mortality and/or burial of the mussels, but there had been no systematic study of the impacts of milfoil control on mussel beds. The purpose of this study was to address knowledge gaps by delineating known mussel beds and potential overlap with milfoil to provide information for management decisions that balance the needs of native species protection and invasive species control. Rocky Mountain ridged mussels in three reference locations were enumerated using snorkel surveys. The presence and distribution of milfoil was documented in relation to five sites within these three locations. Milfoil was encroaching on one site, causing some changes to the substrate. At other sites, the differences in the depth and distribution of the mussel and the milfoil could allow milfoil control without damaging the mussel beds. It is recommended that, before milfoil removal near known mussel beds be undertaken, a detailed site evaluation be conducted to determine potential impacts. This study suggests presumed impediments to co-managing the mussels and controlling an invasive species should not preclude classifying the mussels as Endangered and affording protections under SARA.
["Eurasian watermilfoil"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Differential responses of prairie rodents to edge effects from recreational trails
Edge effects are a common phenomenon in which an ecological variable changes with respect to distance from a habitat edge. Recreational trails may constitute a habitat edge for prairie rodents because of high human presence, high predator presence, or limited shelter compared to the prairie core. Despite the prevalence of trails in conservation parcels, their effect on wildlife distribution remains largely unstudied. We examined the impacts of recreational trails on small mammal activity in the restored prairies of the Cowling Arboretum at Carleton College. The prairies were restored from 1995 to 2008 and now comprise a contiguous prairie block of approximately 155 ha. Over 2 consecutive summers, we used infrared motion-sensing cameras to record the relative amount of time rodents spend at baited stations placed at different distances from the trail. The results varied between taxa: voles (Microtus spp.) avoided trail edges whereas mouse (Cricetidae and Dipodidae) and thirteen-lined ground squirrel (Ictidomys tridecemlineatus) activity was unaffected by trail proximity. Trails may therefore have species-specific effects on small mammals, with potential consequences for the connectivity and distribution of populations.
["camera"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

The extent of the illegal trade with terrestrial vertebrates in markets and households in Khammouane Province, Lao PDR
Wildlife is one of the most important food resources in rural areas and popular among all social layers of Lao PDR. Numerous vertebrate species are sold at the local markets, but a comprehensive understanding of people’s involvement and their impact on survival of local populations remains insufficient. This study provides the first interdisciplinary assessment using a questionnaire-based survey approach to investigate both markets and households in Khammouane Province in central Lao PDR. Data were recorded during the dry season (October and November 2017), as well as the rainy season (June and July 2018). We documented 66 traded species, mainly intended for consumption purposes, with more than half of them protected under either national law or international convention/red list. Furthermore, an evaluation of wildlife use from urban to the most accessible rural areas, indicated differences in affordability and trapping behavior. Our results suggest that wildlife availabilities can less and less satisfy the unchanged demands.
["Biodiversity crisis"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Environmental stress in Parnassius apollo reflected through wing geometric morphometrics in a historical collection with a possible connection to habitat degradation
Monitoring climate changes and habitat degradation in threatened species without negative impact to the populations can pose a considerable challenge. A rare chance to test the morphological response of wing shape and size to environmental factors on the mountain Apollo (Parnassius apollo) collected from 1938 to 1968 at a single location – Strečno mountain pass, N Slovakia presented itself in a historical collection. The canonical variate analysis showed a significant shift from a narrower to broader forewing, with more extremes in either extra broad or narrow forewings in the post- 1960 population. Analysis of existing data was conducted to determine the possible factors affecting this change. Generally, the comparative statistics of temperature and precipitation to morphology of individuals and their fluctuating asymmetry showed no, or weak, correlations. Two extreme weather events (ECEs), identified using the historical weather data, show no correlation of wing morphology to these events. Although no strong correlations can be drawn in case of the available weather data and morphology, the results of this study can be connected to strong anthropogenic effects of a large-scale road development project taking place in the vicinity of the collection site starting in November 1959 causing changes in the available habitat and therefore a shift in the wing morphology.
["Anthropic impact"]
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Do both habitat and species diversity provide cultural ecosystem services? A trial using geo-tagged photos
Conservation for both biodiversity and ecosystem services are an important issue worldwide. However, knowledge of their relationship remains limited. As habitat structure is strongly related to regional biodiversity, we studied cultural ecosystem services by using habitat structure as a proxy for biodiversity. Specifically, we used human preference, assessed by using photos with location information (i.e. geo-tagged digital pictures) as an index of a cultural ecosystem service. We conducted nature walks in semi-natural environments for cognitively-impaired students from a local special school and studied the photos they took during the walks. We analysed the habitat preferences inferred from the photo locations and the composition of the photos—whether they were close-up, scenic or landscape views. The results showed that levels of human preference and biodiversity, indicated by habitat structure, had a positive relationship. During spring to autumn, when levels of biological activity are higher, people tended to show more preference in close-up views (i.e. the subject of the photo was the species itself). In winter, they tended to be interested in scenic views that were not strongly influenced by species diversity. Additionally, photos taken in areas with threatened species almost always included close-up views, although not of the threatened species themselves. Areas with high species diversity therefore appeared to be more appealing to the participants. These results suggest that habitat diversity could not only contribute to biodiversity, but also provide cultural ecosystem services. Habitat conservation for semi-natural environments could be synergised for both biodiversity conservation and general human well-being.
["Cultural services"]
["Urban Green Space and Health", "Land Use and Ecosystem Services", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Contrasting effects of altitude on species groups with different traits in a non-fragmented montane temperate forest
Temperature has strong effects on species composition and traits. These effects can differ within and between species groups. Thermoregulation and mobility are traits which can be strongly affected by altitudinal distribution. Our aim was to investigate the influence of altitude on the species richness, abundance and composition of species groups with different trophic, thermoregulatory and mobility traits. Carabids (Coleoptera; Carabidae), hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphidae) and birds (Aves: Passeriformes) were counted in three altitudinal belts with a total elevation difference of 700 m (from 300 m to 1000 m a.s.l.) in the same habitat type (non-fragmented temperate montane mixed beech and fir forest). We found that endotherms and more mobile species (i.e. birds) had a smaller turnover than ectotherms (i.e. hoverflies) and less mobile species (i.e. carabids), from which we can predict that the former species will undergo a less extreme shift than the latter in global warming scenarios. Species turnover across the altitudinal gradient increased from birds to hoverflies to carabid beetles. The effect of altitude on phenology was different between the studied ectotherm species groups (carabids and hoverflies). Hoverflies experience a phenological delay of species richness and abundance at higher altitudes in spring, but not at the end of summer, which implies that hoverfly phenology is affected by a change in temperature, while carabid beetle abundance exhibited a delay in phenology in summer at higher altitudes. We suggest that species that are expected to be most affected by climate change, such as ectotherms and species with poor dispersal ability should be prioritised as the best indicators for monitoring and conservation management purposes.
["climate change"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

The Un-Common Leopard: presence, distribution and abundance in Gallies and Murree Forest Division, Northern Pakistan
The leopard Panthera pardus is thought to be sparsely distributed across Pakistan and there is limited understanding of the demographic structure and distribution of the species in this country. We conducted a study, from April to July 2017, and, from March to June 2018, in the northern Pakistan region to establish the presence and distribution of leopards, mindful at the outset of their abundance in that region. The presence of leopards was confirmed in the Swat, Dir and Margalla Hills region. The leopard population in Gallies and Murree Forest Division was preliminarily assessed via camera-trapping. As a result, a total of 63 potential areas of leopard population were identified initially. The leopard was photo captured at 27 locations (hotspots) with 34 capture events yielding 195 images over the course of 3,022 active trap-nights. Camera trap images were examined to identify leopard individuals using their rosette patterns on both the left and right flanks and the dorsal side of the tail. Ultimately, 15 leopard individuals were identified during the first survey period of the study and four individuals were recaptured in the second survey period, together with three new individuals. The detection probability of individual leopards from MARK varied from 0.10 and 0.20 with a population size (preliminarily estimated to be 16–25 (SE = 3.18) in 2107 and 7–13 (SE = 1.87) in 2018. This gave a density of 4.5 to 9.5 leopards/100 km2, respectively. A home range of various individual leopards was found to extend from the Gallies Reserved Forest to the extended corridors of Guzara Forest. In general, this study suggests that the Guzara Forest is crucially important for the conservation of leopards in the region as this area allows them extended movement while searching for food and mates.
["Leopard"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Diversity and Health Studies", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Remediation potential of early successional pioneer species Chenopodium album and Tripleurospermum inodorum
Remediation with plants is a technology used to decrease soil or water contamination. In this study we assessed the remediation potential of two weed species (Chenopodium album and Tripleurospermum inodorum) in a moderately metal-contaminated area. Metal concentrations were studied in roots, stems and leaves, in order to assess correlations in metal concentrations between those in soil and plants. Furthermore, we calculated bioaccumulation factor (BAF), bioconcentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF) values to study the accumulation of metals from soil to plants and translocation within plants. We found correlation in metal concentrations between soil and plants. The metal accumulation potential was low in both species, indicating low BAF and BCF values. In contrast, high TF values were found for Mn, Ni, Sr, Zn, Ba, Fe, Cu and Pb in C. album, and for Fe, Mn, Ni, Zn and Sr in T. inodorum. Our results demonstrated that the potential of C. album and T. inodorum might be limited in phytoextraction processes; however, when accumulated, metals are successfully transported to aboveground plant organs. Thus, to achieve the efficient remediation of metal-contaminated soils, removal of the aboveground plant organs is recommended, by which soil disturbance can also be avoided.
["bioaccumulation"]
["Heavy metals in environment", "Heavy Metals in Plants", "Plant Stress Responses and Tolerance"]

Translocations of European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus) along altitudinal gradient in Bulgaria – an overview
The European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus) is a vulnerable species (IUCN) living in open habitats of Central and South-eastern Europe. Translocations (introductions, reintroductions and reinforcements) are commonly used as part of the European ground squirrel (EGS) conservation. There are numerous publications for such activities carried out in Central Europe, but data from South-eastern Europe, where translocations have also been implemented, are still scarce. The present study summarises the methodologies used in the translocations in Bulgaria and analyses the factors impacting their success. Eight translocations of more than 1730 individuals were performed in the period 2010 to 2018. These included 4 reinforcements, 3 reintroductions and 1 introduction. Two of the translocations are still ongoing. Five of the completed six (83%) translocations were successful, although in two cases the number of individuals was critically low. The relatively higher success in Bulgaria than in Central Europe is probably due to using the gained experience. Most of the translocations (6) used a soft release approach. In 6 cases, the animals settled 100 to 720 metres away from the release site, implying management and protection of suitable habitat beyond the translocation area. In 7 of the translocations, the altitude between the donor colony and the release site varied from 470 to 1320 m which could have a hindering effect on the adaptation of animals due to the specific conditions in the mountains. The main reasons for failure are probably poorly selected and maintained habitats and bad climatic conditions (rainy and cool weather) during the translocation action. European funds are of critical importance for translocations, with only two translocations funded by other sources. Based on the gathered data, the current paper also gives some recommendations for improvement in translocation activities.
["repatriation"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Multi-decadal surveys in a Mediterranean forest reserve – do succession and isolation drive moth species richness?
Isolated fragments of semi-natural habitats are often embedded in a landscape matrix that is hostile to organisms of conservation concern. Such habitat islands are prone to changes in their biota over time. For insects, few studies on long-term trends in species richness within conservation areas are available, mainly due to the lack of historical data. We here use moths in the coastal pine wood reserve Pineta san Vitale (Ravenna, NE Italy) to assess how local fauna has changed over the last 85 years. This reserve has experienced massive changes in vegetation structure due to secondary succession. We compared historical collections (1933–1976: 107 species; and 1977–1996: 157 species) with our own samples (1997–2002: 174 species; and 2011+2012: 187 species). Over the last 85 years, the proportion of habitat generalists in relation to all recorded moth species increased from 20 to 33%. The fractions of woodland and open habitat species concomitantly decreased by 10 percentage points, respectively. Amongst woodland and habitat generalist species, gains outnumbered losses. In contrast, 18 species of open habitats and 10 reed species were lost over the decades. We attribute these changes to vegetation succession and to the isolation of the reserve. Generalist species are presumably better able to pass through anthropogenically exploited landscapes and colonise isolated habitat fragments than habitat specialists.
["Anthropogenic influence"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Comparison of biological and ecological long-term trends related to northern hemisphere climate in different marine ecosystems
Data from five sites of the International Long Term Ecological Research (ILTER) network in the North-Eastern Pacific, Western Arctic Ocean, Northern Baltic Sea, South-Eastern North Sea and in the Western Mediterranean Sea were analyzed by dynamic factor analysis (DFA) to trace common multi-year trends in abundance and composition of phytoplankton, benthic fauna and temperate reef fish. Multiannual trends were related to climate and environmental variables to study interactions. Two common trends in biological responses were detected, with temperature and climate indices as explanatory variables in four of the five LTER sites considered. Only one trend was observed at the fifth site, the Northern Baltic Sea, where no explanatory variables were identified. Our findings revealed quasi-synchronous biological shifts in the different marine ecosystems coincident with the 2000 climatic regime shift and provided evidence on a possible further biological shift around 2010. The observed biological modifications were coupled with abrupt or continuous increase in sea water and air temperature confirming the key-role of temperature in structuring marine communities.
["ILTER network"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Butterfly distribution along altitudinal gradients: temporal changes over a short time period
Mountain ecosystems are particularly sensitive to changes in climate and land cover, but at the same time, they can offer important refuges for species on the opposite of the more altered lowlands. To explore the potential role of mountain ecosystems in butterfly conservation and to assess the vulnerability of the alpine species, we analyzed the short-term changes (2006–2008 vs. 2012–2013) of butterflies’ distribution along altitudinal gradients in the NW Italian Alps. We sampled butterfly communities once a month (62 sampling stations, 3 seasonal replicates per year, from June to August) by semi-quantitative sampling techniques. The monitored gradient ranges from the montane to the alpine belt (600–2700 m a.s.l.) within three protected areas: Gran Paradiso National Park (LTER, Sitecode: LTER_EU_IT_109), Orsiera Rocciavrè Natural Park and Veglia Devero Natural Park. We investigated butterflies’ temporal changes in accordance with a hierarchical approach to assess potential relationships between species and community level. As a first step, we characterized each species in terms of habitat requirements, elevational range and temperature preferences and we compared plot occupancy and altitudinal range changes between time periods (2006–2008 vs. 2012–2013). Secondly, we focused on community level, analyzing species richness and community composition temporal changes. The species level analysis highlighted a general increase in mean occupancy level and significant changes at both altitudinal boundaries. Looking at the ecological groups, we observed an increase of generalist and highly mobile species at the expense of the specialist and less mobile ones. For the community level, we noticed a significant increase in species richness, in the community temperature index and a tendency towards homogenization within communities. Besides the short time period considered, butterflies species distribution and communities changed considerably. In light of these results, it is fundamental to continue monitoring activities to understand if we are facing transient changes or first signals of an imminent trend.
["Butterfly"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Successions of phytobenthos species in a Mediterranean transitional water system: the importance of long term observations
The availability of quantitative long term datasets on the phytobenthic assemblages of the Mar Piccolo of Taranto (southern Italy, Mediterranean Sea), a lagoon like semi-enclosed coastal basin included in the Italian LTER network, enabled careful analysis of changes occurring in the structure of the community over about thirty years. The total number of taxa differed over the years. Thirteen non-indigenous species in total were found, their number varied over the years, reaching its highest value in 2017. The dominant taxa differed over the years. The number of species in each taxonomic division also varied. In addition to the centuries-old exploitation of its biotic resources, mainly molluscs, the basin has been subject for a long time to a range of anthropogenic driving forces linked to urbanisation, shipbuilding, agriculture and military activities, which have caused chemical and biological pollution, eutrophication and habitat destruction. It may therefore be assumed that these changes were closely related to human activities. Indeed, it was observed that the reduction of only one of these forces, i.e. urban sewage discharge, triggered the recovery of phytobenthos. Therefore, it may be assumed that if the anthropogenic pressure on the Mar Piccolo was eased, it could once again become the paradisiacal place it was held to be in ancient times.
["LTER"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Dynamic of nitrogen and dissolved organic carbon in an alpine forested catchment: atmospheric deposition and soil solution trends
A number of studies have reported decreasing trends of acidifying and N deposition inputs to forest areas throughout Europe and the USA in recent decades. There is a need to assess the responses of the ecosystem to declining atmospheric pollution by monitoring the variations of chemical species in the various compartments of the forest ecosystem on a long temporal scale. In this study, we report on patterns and trends in throughfall deposition concentrations of inorganic N, dissolved organic N (DON) and C (DOC) over a 20-year (1995–2015) period in the LTER site -Val Masino (1190 m a.s.l.), a spruce forest, in the Central Italian Alps. The same chemical species were studied in the litter floor leachates and mineral soil solution, at three different depths (15, 40 and 70 cm), over a 10-year period (2005–2015). Inorganic N concentration was drastically reduced as throughfall and litter floor leachates percolated through the topsoil, where the measured mean values (2 µeq L-1) were much lower than the critical limits established for coniferous stands (14 µeq L-1). The seasonal temperature dependence of throughfall DOC and DON concentration suggests that the microbial community living on the needles was the main source of dissolved organic matter. Most of DOC and DON infiltrating from the litter floor were retained in the mineral soil. The rainfall amount was the only climatic factor exerting a control on DOC and N compounds in throughfall and forest floor leachates over a decadal period. Concentration of SO4 and NO3 declined by 50% and 26% respectively in throughfall deposition. Trends of NO3 and SO4 in forest floor leachates and mineral soil solution mirrored declining depositions. No trends in both DON and DOC concentration and in DOC/DON ratio in soil solutions were observed. These outcomes suggest that the declining NO3 and SO4 atmospheric inputs did not influence the dynamic of DON and DOC in the Val Masino forest. The results of this study are particularly relevant, as they are based on a comprehensive survey of all the main compartments of the forest ecosystem. Moreover, this kind of long-term research has rarely been carried out in the Alpine region.
["Nitrate"]
["Atmospheric and Environmental Gas Dynamics", "Soil and Water Nutrient Dynamics", "Atmospheric chemistry and aerosols"]

Microbial processing of sedimentary organic matter at a shallow LTER site in the northern Adriatic Sea: an 8-year case study
Benthic prokaryotes are the key-players in C-cycling at the sediment-seawater interface, one of the largest biologically active interfaces on Earth. Here, microbial-mediated processes, such as the degradation of organic matter and the incorporation of mobilized C into microbial biomass, depend on several factors such as environmental temperature and substrate availability, especially in shallow sediments at mid-high latitudes where seasonal fluctuations of these variables occur. In the present study, four degradative activities (β-glucosidase, lipase, chitinase and aminopeptidase), Heterotrophic C Production (HCP), Total Organic C (TOC), Total Nitrogen (TN) and Biopolymeric C (BPC) were investigated seasonally from April 2010 to April 2018 in the surface sediments of a shallow Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) station of the northern Adriatic Sea. Significant temperature-dependences were described by Arrhenius-type equations for HCP and each of the degradative activities tested with the exception of aminopeptidase. The relatively low apparent Activation Energies suggested that these microbial-mediated processes were enhanced by the availability of palatable substrates over the study period. Nevertheless, a clear and tight dependence from such substrates was detected only for aminopeptidase, the most pronounced degradative activity observed. TN was identified by the stepwise multiple regression analysis as the environmental variable that mainly drove this exoenzymatic activity. Enhanced aminopeptidase rates mirrored peaks of TN that seemed, in turn, linked to the seasonal proliferation of benthic microalgae. By supplying prokaryotes with promptly available substrates, these autotrophs, represented mainly by diatoms, seemed to play an important role in the C-cycling regulation at the studied LTER station.
["Benthic prokaryotes"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Multiannual decrement of nutrient concentrations and phytoplankton cell size in a Mediterranean reservoir
Reservoirs are primary water resources for many uses in the Mediterreanean region and need dedicated studies for understanding the complexity of their dynamics particularly vulnerable to local and global stressors. This study focused on phytoplankton variations in relation to seasonal environmental changes on a multiannual time scale (2006–2015) at a Mediterranean eutrophic reservoir (Bidighinzu Lake, Italy) belonging to the Italian, European and International Long Term Ecological Research networks. Phytoplankton cell density, volume and biomass and chlorophyll a concentrations were analysed together with meteo-climatic, hydrological, physical and chemical variables to detect trends and correlations. The period under study was also compared with previous years to assess the presence of significant differences in the environmental and planktonic compartments. Multiannual changes were more pronounced in summer than in the other seasons during the decade under study. The most conspicuous environmental changes were a significant decrease in summer nutrient concentrations in the reservoir and a simultaneous anthropic pressure reduction in the watershed. In addition, the mixing zone and euphotic zone ratio also increased. Multiannual changes in summer phytoplankton composition consisted of an increased density of smaller Bacillariophyceae and Cyanophyceae, which replaced larger species of the same phytoplankton classes. This resulted in opposite trends of total phytoplankton cell density (increasing) and mean phytoplankton cell volume (decreasing) over the study years. The nutrient decrement was statistically the strongest environmental driver of the phytoplankton changes observed in the reservoir. However, the mixing zone and the euphotic zone ratio and water temperature also significantly affected the multiannual phytoplankton variations. Therefore, we conclude that the success of small cell-sized phytoplankton in Bidighinzu Lake was most probably due to the synergic interactions of more environmental forces related to changing anthropic pressures and climate variability. Our results highlight the importance of long-term monitoring of reservoirs in the Mediterranean basin, especially in semi-arid regions where the need and scarcity of high quality water will be further exacerbated due to the global climate change.
["Phytoplankton"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Water Quality and Pollution Assessment"]

Benthic studies in LTER sites: the use of taxonomy surrogates in the detection of long-term changes in lagoonal benthic assemblages
In benthic studies, the identification of organisms at the species level is known to be the best source for ecological and biological information even if time-consuming and expensive. However, taxonomic sufficiency (TS) has been proposed as a short-cut method for quantifying changes in biological assemblages in environmental monitoring. In this paper, we set out to determine whether and how the taxonomic complexity of a benthic assemblage influences the results of TS at two different long-term ecological research (LTER) sites in the Po delta region (north-eastern Italy). Specifically, we investigated whether TS can be used to detect natural and human-driven patterns of variation in benthic assemblages from lagoonal soft bottoms. The first benthic dataset was collected from 1996 to 2015 in a “choked” lagoon, the Valli di Comacchio, a lagoon characterised by long water residence times and heavy eutrophication, while the second was collected from 2004 to 2010 in a “leaky” lagoon, the Sacca di Goro, a coastal area with human pressure limited to aquaculture. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were used to assess differences in the taxonomic structure of benthic assemblages and to test TS on the two different datasets. TS seemed to work from species to family level at both sites, despite a higher natural variability of environmental conditions combined with multiple anthropogenic stressors. Therefore, TS at the family level may represent effective taxonomic surrogates across a range of environmental contexts in lagoon environments. Since the structure of the community and the magnitude of changes could influence the efficiency of taxonomic surrogates and data transformations in long-term monitoring, we also suggest periodic analyses at finer taxonomic levels in order to check the efficiency of the application of taxonomic substitutes in routine monitoring programmes in lagoon systems.
["LTER sites"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Microbial metabolic rates in the Ross Sea: the ABIOCLEAR Project
The Ross Sea is one of the most productive areas of the Southern Ocean and includes several functionally different marine ecosystems. With the aim of identifying signs and patterns of microbial response to current climate change, seawater microbial populations were sampled at different depths, from surface to the bottom, at two Ross Sea mooring areas southeast of Victoria Land in Antarctica. This oceanographic experiment, the XX Italian Antarctic Expedition, 2004-05, was carried out in the framework of the ABIOCLEAR project as part of LTER-Italy. Here, microbial biogeochemical rates of respiration, carbon dioxide production, total community heterotrophic energy production, prokaryotic heterotrophic activity, production (by 3H-leucine uptake) and prokaryotic biomass (by image analysis) were determined throughout the water column. As ancillary parameters, chlorophyll a, adenosine-triphosphate concentrations, temperature and salinity were measured and reported. Microbial metabolism was highly variable amongst stations and depths. In epi- and mesopelagic zones, respiratory rates varied between 52.4–437.0 and 6.3–271.5 nanol O2 l-1 h-1; prokaryotic heterotrophic production varied between 0.46–29.5 and 0.3–6.11 nanog C l-1 h-1; and prokaryotic biomass varied between 0.8–24.5 and 1.1–9.0 µg C l-1, respectively. The average heterotrophic energy production ranged between 570 and 103 mJ l-1 h-1 in upper and deeper layers, respectively. In the epipelagic layer, the Prokaryotic Carbon Demand and Prokaryotic Growth Efficiency averaged 9 times higher and 2 times lower, respectively, than in the mesopelagic one. The distribution of plankton metabolism and organic matter degradation was mainly related to the different hydrological and trophic conditions. In comparison with previous research, the Ross Sea results, here, evidenced a relatively impoverished oligotrophic microbial community, throughout the water column.
["Microbial respiration"]
["Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Phytoplankton temporal dynamics in the coastal waters of the north-eastern Adriatic Sea (Mediterranean Sea) from 2010 to 2017
Phytoplankton community structure was analysed from 2010 to 2017 at C1-LTER, the coastal Long-Term Ecological Research station located in the Gulf of Trieste, which is the northernmost part of the Mediterranean Sea. Phytoplankton abundance and relevant oceanographic parameters were measured monthly in order to describe the seasonal cycle and interannual variability of the main phytoplankton taxa (diatoms, dinoflagellates, coccolithophores and flagellates) and to analyse their relationship with environmental conditions. Overall, phytoplankton abundances showed a marked seasonal cycle characterised by a bloom in spring, with the peak in May. During the summer, phytoplankton abundances gradually decreased until September, then slightly increased again in October and reached their minima in winter. In general, the phytoplankton community was dominated by flagellates (generally <10 µm) and diatoms co-occurring in the spring bloom. In this period, diatoms were also represented by nano-sized species, gradually replaced by larger species in summer and autumn. Phytoplankton assemblages differed significantly between seasons (Pseudo-F = 9.59; p < 0.01) and temperature and salinity were the best predictor variables explaining the distribution of the multivariate data cloud. At the interannual scale, a strong decrease of the late-winter bloom was observed in recent years with the spring bloom being the main phytoplankton increase of the year.
["Phytoplankton diversity"]
["Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

First records of Opetiopalpus sabulosus Motschulsky, 1840 (Coleoptera, Cleridae) for the European Alps
The genus Opetiopalpus from the family of checkered beetles (Coleoptera: Cleridae) is represented by 28 species worldwide, with 11 species found in the Palearctic and only four sparsely in Europe prior to 1998. One species, Opetiopalpus sabulosus Motschulsky, 1840, was recently found in Eastern Europe (i.e. Ukraine, Bulgaria, and Moldavia), with the most recent record in 2015 in Eastern Romania; no data are available for Central Europe. During a comprehensive sampling survey in 2016 in the dry inner-Alpine Vinschgau Valley (South Tyrol, Italy), one individual of O. sabulosus was recorded from soil core samples on an extensively managed steppe-like dry pasture at 2000 m a.s.l. This was the first record of O. sabulosus for the European Alps and Central Europe. Further intensive samplings were conducted in 2017 and 2018, in which one additional specimen at a dry pasture at 2500 m confirms the presence of this checkered beetle. Opetiopalpus sabulosus seems to have a cryptic lifestyle and therefore a low detection probability. The locations from where the species was recorded, all steppe-like dry grasslands that are part of the LTSER area “Val Mazia/Matschertal” within the LTER-Italia network, are characterized by low precipitation (730 mm at 2000 m a.s.l.) and traditional low input management (grazing cattle, sheep, and horses). Beside O. sabulosus, other rare and new species for South Tyrol and Italy were found at the sampling area. Therefore, our records underline the high biodiversity and the high nature conservational value of these steppe-like dry grasslands and the importance of long-term research to monitor such species.
["new report"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Long-term changes in abundance and diversity of tintinnids in the Gulf of Trieste (Northern Adriatic Sea)
Abundance and composition of the planktonic tintinnid ciliates were studied in the Gulf of Trieste (Northern Adriatic Sea, NE Mediterranean Sea) from July 1998 to July 2016. Tintinnids were collected biweekly-monthly from the LTER station C1 (200 m offshore, 17.5 m depth) at four depths (surface, 5 m, 10 m and 15 m). The maximum tintinnid abundance reached 4476 ind. L-1 at surface in February 2016. The tintinnid community comprised a maximum of 35 species and was dominated by the genera Stenosemella, Tintinnopsis, Codonellopsis, Salpingella and Eutintinnus. The most abundant species were Stenosemella nivalis, Tintinnopsis nana, Codonellopsis schabi, Salpingella rotundata and Eutintinnus apertus. We found a species-specific correlation with the abiotic factors considered, i.e., temperature and salinity. Temperature was positively correlated with S. rotundata and E. apertus and negatively with S. nivalis. Salinity was negatively correlated with the majority of the detected species. Agglutinated species presented winter maxima while hyaline species showed higher abundance in summer-autumn. Some key species were present over the whole period studied. Significant differences within the water column were not seen in the species composition, but were seen in the relative abundances of the same species at different depths. Stenosemella nivalis, S. ventricosa and Tintinnopsis beroidea can be considered as keystone species in the area and their possible loss can be seen as a signal of changes in the structure of the entire planktonic system.
["Tintinnids"]
["Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

The role of herbivorous insects and pathogens in the regeneration dynamics of Guazuma ulmifolia in Panama
A significant proportion of the mortality of rainforest trees occurs during early life stages (seeds and seedlings), but mortality agents are often elusive. Our study investigated the role of herbivorous insects and pathogens in the early regeneration dynamics of Guazuma ulmifolia (Malvaceae), an important tree species in agroforestry in Central America. We reared pre-dispersal insect seed predators from G. ulmifolia seeds in Panama. We also carried out an experiment, controlling insects and pathogens using insecticide and/or fungicide treatments, as well as seed density, and compared survivorship of G. ulmifolia seeds and seedlings among treatments and relative to untreated control plots. We observed (1) high pre-dispersal attack (92%) of the fruits of G. ulmifolia, mostly by anobiine and bruchine beetles; (2) negligible post-dispersal attack of isolated seeds by insects and pathogens; (3) slow growth and high mortality (> 95%) of seedlings after 14 weeks; (4) low insect damage on seedlings; and (5) a strong positive correlation between seedling mortality and rainfall. We conclude that for G. ulmifolia at our study site the pre-dispersal seed stage is by far the most sensitive stage to insects and that their influence on seedling mortality appears to be slight as compared to that of inclement weather. Thus, the regeneration of this important tree species may depend on effective primary dispersal of seeds by vertebrates (before most of the seed crop is lost to insects), conditioned by suitable conditions in which the seedlings can grow.
["Anobiidae"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

First photographic record of marbled cat Pardofelis marmorata Martin, 1837 (Mammalia, Carnivora, Felidae) in Nepal
The marbled cat Pardofelis marmorata is a Near Threatened small felid. The cat’s presence in Nepal is based on an anecdote. A camera trap-based study to access diversity and abundance of terrestrial mammals in eastern Nepal accumulated 3,014 camera trap days and resulted in 5,176 photographs of 17 medium-large sized mammal species. Amongst them, a marbled cat was captured at a single camera trap station in January 2018. The camera trap-capturing the marbled cat was located in the secondary forest at an altitude of 2,750 m a.s.l., dominated by free-ranging cattle close to a permanent human settlement (1.4 km) and a temporary cattle herding camp (0.4 km). This is the first photographic evidence of a marbled cat in Nepal. In this survey, we also recorded three other felid species: common leopard Panthera pardus, Asiatic golden-cat Catopuma temminckii and leopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis. We recommend detailed year-round camera trap surveys in the mid-hills of eastern Nepal along with research on adaptation of the small felids to human-dominated areas and assessment of immediate threats for preparing sound conservation management plans of the marbled cat and its sympatric species. Initiation of conservation programmes engaging local dokpa (herders) is necessary.
["Marbled cat"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Behavioral responses of Australian fur seals to boat approaches at a breeding colony
In Australia, a multi-million-dollar industry is based on viewing the Australian fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus), predominantly through boat visits to breeding colonies. Regulation of boat approaches varies by site and no systematic investigations have been performed to inform management guidelines. To investigate possible effects of disturbance, experimental boat approaches were made to a colony at Kanowna Island in northern Bass Strait and seal responses were monitored using instantaneous scan sampling. Colony attendance (individuals remaining ashore) was found to be influenced by approach distance and time of day, but was not affected by environmental variables or season, whereas onshore resting behavior was influenced by approach distance, time of day, ambient temperature and wind direction. Onshore resting behavior decreased following experimental boat approaches to 75 m, but changes in abundance of individuals ashore were not observed at this distance. In contrast, approaches to 25 m elicited a strong response, with a steep decline in the number of individuals ashore. This response was strongest when approaches occurred in the morning, with a decline of approximately 47% of individuals, compared to a decline of 21% during afternoon approaches. With regard to onshore resting behavior, afternoon approaches to 75 m led to minimal response. The remaining three combinations of approach distance and time of day had a similar pattern of reductions in the proportion of individuals engaging in onshore resting behavior. The strongest response was again seen during approaches to 25 m conducted in the morning. These behavior changes suggest that unrestricted boat-based ecotourism at Australian fur seal colonies has the potential to increase energy expenditure and reduce the number of seals ashore. Increasing minimum approach distances to ≥75 m and/or restricting visits to afternoons may minimize these impacts at Kanowna Island during the post-molt and non-breeding seasons. As several studies have demonstrated considerable intra-species variation in seal responses to boat approaches, research at other colonies is needed before these findings can be generalized to the remainder of the Australian fur seal population.
["Arctocephalus"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

Assessing the potential distribution of invasive alien species Amorpha fruticosa (Mill.) in the Mureş Floodplain Natural Park (Romania) using GIS and logistic regression
The assessment of invasive terrestrial plant species in the Romanian protected areas is an important research direction, especially since the adventive species have become biological hazards with significant impacts on biodiversity. Due to limited resources being available for the control of the invasive plants, the modelling of the spatial potential distribution is particularly useful in order to find the best measures to eliminate them or prevent their introduction and spread, as well as including them in the management plans of protected areas. Thus, the present paper aims to assess one of the most disturbing invasive terrestrial plant species in Europe – A. fruticosa in one of the most important natural protected area in Romania, i.e. Mureş Floodplain Natural Park (V IUCN category and RAMSAR –Wetlands of International Importance). The current study is a geographical approach seeking to explain the spatial relationships between this invasive species and several explanatory factors (soil type, depth to water, vegetation cover, forest fragmentation and distance to near waters, roads and settlements) and to assess its potential distribution by integrating GIS and logistic regression into spatial simulation. The resultant probability map can be used by the park’s administration in implementing the Management Plan in terms of identifying the areas with the highest occurrence potential of A. fruticosa according to the primary habitats and ecosystems and setting up actions for its eradication/limitation.
["A. fruticosa (Mill.)"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Land Use and Ecosystem Services", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Cladocera remains and vegetation types to assess the state of oxbows
We assessed the usefulness of Cladocera remains for establishing the ecological status of oxbows and also tested the association of Cladocera species with various vegetation types. Cladocera remains were collected from the surface sediment of four habitat types (tangled vegetation, open water, reeds and tunnels) and 15 physical and chemical parameters of surface water were studied. In the surface sediment samples, we identified 32 Cladocera taxa. There was a significant difference in the number of species amongst habitat types as per ANOVA. The benthic and plant associated Cladocera communities of reeds, tangled vegetation, open water and tunnels were clearly separated from each other by NMDS ordination. CCA showed that habitat types had characteristic Cladocera species: Pleuroxus species were frequent in the tangled vegetation habitat, while Chydorus species were frequent in the open water. Remarkably, in reeds, Bosmina species were frequent, although these species are usually common in open water. Specimens of the Alona genus were found everywhere. Our findings suggest that the remains of Cladocera species may be useful indicators to assess and monitor the structure of freshwater lakes.
["Water-Sediment chemistry"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

First record of the protected species Pinna nobilis (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Aquatina Lagoon (NATURA 2000 site IT9150003, South-East Italian coastline)
Information on the presence of Pinna nobilis (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Mediterranean Sea is largely reported in literature because it is an endemic and, at the same time, endangered species. Besides, this record contributes to enlarge the spatial distribution of this species in the South-East Italian coastline (Adriatic Sea). P. nobilis is a protected species under the EU Habitats Directive (1992). In particular, P. nobilis has been recorded for the first time in the Aquatina Lagoon, a transitional water ecosystem included in the NATURA 2000 site “Aquatina di Frigole” (IT9150003). Therefore, this finding underlines the role of transitional water ecosystems as “nursery habitats” for P. nobilis as well as the relevance of conservation actions introduced by the EU with the NATURA 2000 network for preserving the biodiversity.
["pen shell"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Abundance and survival rates of three leaf-litter frog species in fragments and continuous forest of the Mata Atlântica, Brazil
Habitat destruction and fragmentation alter the quality of habitats and put populations under the risk of extinction. Changes in population parameters can provide early warning signs of negative impacts. In tropical forests, where habitat loss and fragmentation are vast, such indicators are of high relevance for directing conservation efforts before effects are irreversible. Most of our knowledge from tropical ecosystems originates from community level surveys, whereas our understanding of the influence of habitat conversion on vital rates of species is limited. This study focused on the influence of anthropogenic habitat fragmentation on the survival probability and abundance of three leaf-litter frog species (Rhinella ornata, Ischnocnema guentheri and I. parva) in forest patches of the Atlantic rainforest of South-east Brazil compared to a continuous forest. The species differ in their matrix tolerance: high for R. ornata and low for I. guentheri and I. parva and, thus, we examined whether their survival and abundance correspond to this classification. Ischnocnema guentheri showed highest abundances in all study sites and low mortality in the forest patches compared to the continuous forest; I. parva was encountered only in isolated fragments, with very low mortality in one isolated fragment; and the matrix tolerant species had generally low abundance and showed no clear pattern in terms of mortality in the different sites. Our counter-intuitive results show that even matrix sensitive amphibian species may show high abundance and low mortality in small forest patches. Therefore, these patches can be of high value for amphibian conservation regardless of their degree of matrix aversion. Landscape level conservation planning should not abandon small habitat patches, especially in highly fragmented tropical environments.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Comparative assessment of reproductive traits across different habitats in the endangered Webb’s hyacinth (Bellevalia webbiana Parl.)
To pursue a proper conservation of narrow endemic species, the knowledge of basic reproductive strategies is crucial to plan adequate conservation activities. One of the most evolutionarily relevant and threatened Italian endemic is the Webb’s hyacinth (Bellevalia webbiana Parl.). As the reproductive behaviour of this species and its connection with human impact are currently unknown, the aim of this study was to characterise the reproductive traits of the Webb’s hyacinth in contrasting habitats. All the 5 known richest populations across the species range were investigated. Their reproductive strategies were inferred by measuring inflorescence height, fruit set, seed set and P/O ratio. Reproductive features varied greatly amongst stands and also in relation to the degree of human disturbance. However, in all cases, seed sets showed low values. P/O values point towards full xenogamy and it is concluded that effective cross-pollination may be the main mode of sexual reproduction in Bellevalia webbiana. The reasons for the low reproductive performances may reside in pollen limitation, Allee effect and/or intrinsic reduced fertility of the species. Given this scenario, conservation efforts for Webb’s hyacinth should focus on maintaining large and relatively dense populations, to guarantee some chance of in situ survival.
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

Cultural heritage and biodiversity conservation – plant introduction and practical restoration on ancient burial mounds
Linking the conservation of cultural heritage and natural values provides a unique opportunity for preserving traditional landscapes and receives an increased awareness from stakeholders and society. Ancient burial mounds are proper objects of such projects as they are iconic landscape elements of the Eurasian steppes and often act as refugia for grassland specialist species. The aim of this project was to reintroduce grassland plant species to burial mounds for representing them as cultural monuments with the associated biodiversity for the public. The effectiveness of seed sowing, transplanting greenhouse-grown plants and individuals from threatened populations on burial mounds in Hortobágy National Park, Hungary was tested. The following questions were answered: (1) which method is the most effective for species introduction? (2) which species can establish most successfully? (3) how does management affect the species establishment rates? It was found advisable to use a combination of seed sowing and transplanting greenhouse-grown plants. Sowing was found as a cost-effective method for introducing large-seeded species, whilst introduction of greenhouse-grown transplants warranted higher establishment rates for a larger set of species. Transplanting adult individuals was more reliable regardless of management regimes, however this method is labour-intensive and expensive. Intensive management, like mowing with heavy machinery and intensive grazing, should be avoided in the first few years after introduction. The authors highlighted the fact that introducing characteristic grassland species on cultural monuments offers a great opportunity to link issues of landscape and biodiversity conservation. This project demonstrated that, by the revitalisation of cultural monuments, cultural ecosystem services can also be restored.
["cultural ecosystem services"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Land Use and Ecosystem Services", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Vector analysis: a tool for preventing the introduction of invasive alien species into protected areas
Invasive alien species are the main agent of biodiversity loss in protected natural areas. Prevention is the most appropriate management tool for addressing this challenge, however, virtually all ongoing management efforts are focused on established populations. Although invasion processes include stochastic components, it is possible to compare the different vectors of introduction that operate in a particular area in terms of their potential to transport species of high risk of invasion efficiently and, once identified, to establish strategies of prevention, early detection and rapid action. This study proposes a system of prioritization of vectors of alien plant dispersal for optimizing the efforts for preventing invasion. The system was developed for the Ernesto Tornquist Provincial Park (province of Buenos Aires, Argentina), but it is directly applicable to other areas. Natural and anthropogenic vectors were evaluated and lists of the species potentially transported by each vector were elaborated according to the characteristics of their propagules. The system analyzes the relative importance of each vector according to: 1) the severity of the potential impact of transportable species, 2) the difficulty of controlling these species, and 3) the volume of transportable propagules. In the case under study, the maximum value of risk corresponds to cargo, followed by vehicles, streams, unintentional human transport, intentional human transport, wind and finally, animals. This analysis can lead to prevention strategies, mapping of dispersal routes and actions of early detection and rapid response.
["biological invasions"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant and animal studies"]

Integration of species and ecosystem monitoring for selecting priority areas for biodiversity conservation: Case studies from the Palearctic of Russia
At the start of the third millennium, new opportunities have arisen in biogeographical research, namely in the generalisation, visualisation and cross-spectrum analysis of biological and geographical information and in the compilation of biogeographical maps and innovative models for regions that differ in the availability of distribution data. These tasks include long-term monitoring of plants and animals which are in danger of extinction, geographical analysis of biodiversity distribution and development of effective wildlife conservation strategies for specific regions. The studies of the Department of Biogeography of Moscow University on geography and biodiversity conservation are based on long-term field expeditions. The examples of the Asian Subarctic Mountains, the steppes of Central Kazakhstan and the urbanised north-west of Russia are used to illustrate Russian approaches to the use of biogeographical monitoring for the identification of priority areas for biodiversity conservation. The species populations of the higher plants and vertebrates listed in the Red Books have been considered as the basic units of biodiversity.
["Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Conservation biology of the last Italian population of Cistus laurifolius (Cistaceae): demographic structure, reproductive success and population genetics
Isolated populations are usually subject to low fitness and reduced genetic diversity, both of which may negatively affect their survival and adaptive potential. Hence, these issues cannot be neglected when planning conservation actions for isolated populations. The Italian population of Cistus laurifolius subsp. laurifolius is extremely isolated. Furthermore, it is affected by fragmentation, being constituted by a single larger subpopulation, surrounded by three much smaller subpopulations, a few hundred metres to a few kilometres apart. In order to fill gaps in demographic and genetic knowledge concerning the Italian population, its area of occupancy, size, age-stage structure and phenology were investigated and its reproductive fitness, pollination strategies and genetic variability were assessed. The population was inferred as fully xenogamous and showed good reproductive performance. Despite this, its genetic variability was low and it showed relatively high levels of inbreeding depression (Fis), seemingly not affected by sub-population size. These results suggest that the Italian population recently suffered fragmentation and reduction in size. The low genetic diversity observed could be explained by the high percentage of mature individuals found in the population, possibly established before fragmentation. For these reasons, the Italian population of C. laurifolius subsp. laurifolius should be monitored and concrete actions aimed at its conservation planned.
["Conservation biology"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Terrestrial mammal assemblages in protected and human impacted areas in Northern Brazilian Amazonia
Mammal communities in the vicinity of human settlements are often subject to subsistence hunting and retaliatory killings. We used fourteen digital camera traps equipped with infrared triggers to sample the medium-sized and large mammal communities for ca. 34 (±1.64) days per site. Diversity was measured as both Shannon entropy and Fager´s number of moves (NMS), and dominance was quantified using the Berger-Parker index. We used Kruskall-Wallis tests to investigate if there were statistically significant differences in richness, diversity and dominance among the sites. At an overall sampling effort of 1,946 trap days we recorded 216 independent observations of a total of 20 species belonging to 17 genera and 15 families. Richness and diversity appeared to be determined by forest structure, since, independent of the level of human impact, the richest areas were those closest to the ombrophilous forests of southern Guyana shield, closest to central Amazonia, whereas the poorest were at those sites closest to the vegetation mosaics of central Guyana shield. The disappearance of Tayassu pecari from the impacted areas as well as higher relative abundances in the protected areas, albeit not significant, foresees a possible bleak future for the mammalian assemblages in the near future.
["Medium-sized and large terrestrial mammals"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Zoonotic diseases and public health"]

Ecosystem services in a peri-urban protected area in Cyprus: a rapid appraisal
Protected areas around the world are increasingly being recognized for their potential to protect various ecosystem services in addition to biodiversity. We carried out an ecosystem services (ES) assessment at the Rizoelia National Forest Park, a biodiversity hotspot in Cyprus. For ES assessment we used TESSA v.1.1 and an ES matrix-approach to map the capacity of habitat types in the area. According to TESSA the most important ES provided by the study area are aesthetic benefits, recreation/ tourism, biodiversity, global climate regulation, and environmental education. Total Carbon stock was estimated to 14247.327 tonnes and the total number of annual visits was 14471. There were no statistically significant differences in the number of visits among visitation periods but there were statistically significant differences among National Holidays, Weekends and Weekdays. We identified that plantations had the highest capacity for most groups of services particularly where their understory comprises semi-natural habitat types rich in biodiversity. This is the first study in Cyprus which provides a preliminary quantification of ES in a protected area context using widely employed tools. The paper discusses how these findings can help decision-makers to plan direct future restoration and management actions to the benefit of a wide range of stakeholders.
["ES matrix-approach"]
["Land Use and Ecosystem Services", "Conservation, Biodiversity, and Resource Management", "Economic and Environmental Valuation"]

Joining of the historical research and future prediction as a support tool for the assessment of management strategy for European beech-dominated forests in protected areas
European beech-dominated forests are crucial for maintaining biodiversity in forested mountain landscapes of the European temperate zone. This paper presents the results of research and assessment of management strategy for mountain beech-dominated forests in the Jeseníky Mountains (Czech Republic). Our approach is based on combining research on historical development of the forest ecosystem, assessment of its current state, and predictions of future dynamics using a forest growth simulation model. Using such a method makes it possible to understand the current state of the mountain beech-dominated forest ecosystem and predict its future development as a response to specific management strategies. The application of this method is therefore appropriate for assessing the suitability of selected management strategies in mountain protected areas. Our results show that a non-intervention management for mountain beech forest in the next 80 years complies with the Natura 2000 requirement to maintain the existing character of the forest habitat. Thus, the current management plan for the beech-dominated forests in the Jeseníky Mountains does not require significant corrections in the context of its conservation targets (i.e. maintaining biodiversity and current character of the forest ecosystem dominated by beech). The results of this study suggest that combining the knowledge on historical development with forest growth simulation can be used as a suitable support tool to assess management strategies for forest habitats in protected areas.
["Beech-dominated forest"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Forest ecology and management"]

Caching behaviour by red squirrels may contribute to food conditioning of grizzly bears
We describe an interspecific relationship wherein grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis) appear to seek out and consume agricultural seeds concentrated in the middens of red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus), which had collected and cached spilled grain from a railway. We studied this interaction by estimating squirrel density, midden density and contents, and bear activity along paired transects that were near (within 50 m) or far (200 m) from the railway. Relative to far ones, near transects had 2.4 times more squirrel sightings, but similar numbers of squirrel middens. Among 15 middens in which agricultural products were found, 14 were near the rail and 4 subsequently exhibited evidence of bear digging. Remote cameras confirmed the presence of squirrels on the rail and bears excavating middens. We speculate that obtaining grain from squirrel middens encourages bears to seek grain on the railway, potentially contributing to their rising risk of collisions with trains.
["Ursus"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Reconstituting a rainforest patch in southern Benin for the protection of threatened plants
In a twenty-year effort at Drabo, southern Benin, small remnant forests, young fallow and agricultural fields were linked and rehabilitated to develop a 14 ha forest reserve. Forest regrowth was encouraged by managing the natural growth of the local fallow vegetation and by bringing in seeds and other propagules from forest islands of Benin. The succession to shade-tolerant woody forest species of Guineo-Congolian origin at the expense of extra-regional herbs, the co-existence of species with slightly different requirements, and the fate of exotic trees in this natural forest are described. A quantitative assessment of a homogeneous lot indicated 397 trees per ha, with stem diameters >10 cm, 43.7% of them below 20 cm, and a rich undergrowth of 72600 smaller plants per ha, proof of active rejuvenation. Only 4.2% of all plants resulted from the 1041 introduction events, i.e., species per date, mostly of the 253 plant species that were new to Drabo. A total of 635 species were recorded, but 50 did not survive and four are yet to be identified. In June 2016, the total of 581 known living species included 224 trees. Among all plants, 244 hailed from the Guineo-Congolian zone with 17 of Upper Guinean and four of Lower Guinean origin, 113 from the three savannah zones, and 224 were of extra-regional origin. Overall, 72.8% of all woody plants, such as many climbers, all shrubs and trees, were of forest and savanna origin (GC, SG, SZ and S), whereas 70.4% of all herbs came from other regions (At, PAL and Pt). Only 7.0% of all species from the GC zone were in decline; but the further away the plants originated from, the larger the decline in numbers and vigour, up to 64.6% among plants of pan-tropical origin. Particularly pan-tropical herbs became ever rarer, with 80.0% of them declining and confined to the few open spaces along paths. In 2017 the forest harboured 52 threatened species, with threat categories EW, CR, EN or VU on the Red List of Benin, out of 73 IUCN-listed species that could possibly survive in Drabo. Some of these species occur in only one or two other locations in Benin. The biodiversity richness of the rehabilitated forests of Drabo now rivals that of natural rainforest remnants of the region. As the surrounding landscape becomes ever more impoverished because of the high human population and its ever increasing impact, the maintenance of such managed islands of biodiversity is critical. By establishing rare local species from other locations we can compensate for direct human destruction and long-term stochastic loss of species in this highly fragmented landscape where natural seed dispersal is difficult. Benin, sacred forest, threatened plants, IUCN Red List, forest regeneration, Guineo-Congolese semi-deciduous forest
["Benin"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Agriculture and Rural Development Research"]

Guidelines for the monitoring of Morimus asper funereus and Morimus asper asper
Morimus asper is a morphologically variable longhorn beetle that occurs in large parts of southern and central Europe. Although this saproxylic beetle is widespread in old-growth forests or well-structured woodlands, its populations are currently threatened by forest practices, such as the removal of wood (branches and logs). Morimus funereus is considered a valid species by some authors and is included in Annex II of the Habitats Directive. However, a recent molecular study found that all European and Turkish populations should be referred to a single species, M. asper. In this paper, the monitoring methods proposed for M. asper (sensu lato) in the various European countries are reviewed and the research carried out in Italy, which was aimed at developing guidelines for its monitoring, is presented. The experiments conducted, mainly with log piles built from freshly cut wood, investigated, amongst other things, the importance of wood type, diameter of logs and age of wood for the number of individuals observed. Based on these results and on a literature review, a detailed monitoring method for M. asper is proposed here, together with a discussion on its constraints, spatial validity and possible interferences. In order to facilitate the assessment of the conservation status of populations of M. asper and to allow for comparisons between populations and over time, a method for the calculation of a reference value, based on the monitoring method, is also presented.
["Habitats Directive"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

The LIFE Project “Monitoring of insects with public participation” (MIPP): aims, methods and conclusions
The Life Project “Monitoring of insects with public participation” (LIFE11 NAT/IT/000252) had as the main objective to develop and test methods for the monitoring of five beetle species listed in the Annexes of the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC): Osmoderma eremita (hermit beetle, Scarabaeidae), Lucanus cervus (European stag beetle, Lucanidae), Cerambyx cerdo (great capricorn beetle, Cerambycidae), Rosalia alpina (rosalia longicorn, Cerambycidae) and Morimus asper/funereus (morimus longicorn, Cerambycidae). The data gathered represent an important contribution to the monitoring of these target species in Italy. The methods developed for monitoring of the target species are intended for use by the local management authorities and staff of protected areas. These developed methods are the result of extensive fieldwork and ensure scientific validity, ease of execution and limited labour costs. The detailed description of methods and the results for each species are published in separate articles of this special issue of Nature Conservation. A second objective of the project was to gather faunistic data with a Citizen Science approach, using the web and a mobile application software (app) specifically built for mobile devices. The validation of the records collected by the citizens was carried out by experts, based on photographs, which were obligatory for all records. Dissemination activities represented the principal way to contact and engage citizens for the data collection and also offered the possibility of providing information on topics such as Natura 2000, the Habitats Directive, the role of monitoring in nature conservation, the importance of forest ecosystems and the ecological role of the saproxylic insects. An innovative method tested during the project was the training of a dog for searching and monitoring the elusive hermit beetle; the trained dog also added a “curiosity” factor to attract public attention towards this rare insect and the issues mentioned above.
["Saproxylic beetle monitoring"]
["Animal and Plant Science Education", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Guidelines for the monitoring of Lucanus cervus
Lucanus cervus is one of the most charismatic saproxylic beetles, widely distributed in Europe. The species is typical of mature deciduous forests, especially oak woodlands. Loss and fragmentation of suitable habitats is one of the major threats for this species which is included in Annex II of the Habitats Directive. Despite several studies carried out in the last years for the monitoring methods of the species, an analytical comparison between them is still lacking. The aims of this paper are (i) to review the current knowledge about systematics, ecology and conservation practices on L. cervus and (ii) to present the research carried out during the Life MIPP project, in order to define a standard monitoring method with a suitable protocol to be used for addressing the obligations of the Habitats Directive. Overall, five methods were tested during three years in two different study areas. Based on these results, a suitable standard method for L. cervus is proposed in this paper and, in order to assess the conservation status of populations and to compare them over time, a simple method for the calculation of a reference value is provided.
["Habitats Directive"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Evidence for geographic substructuring of mtDNA variation in the East European Hermit beetle (Osmoderma barnabita)
The genus Osmoderma is a flagship taxon of invertebrate conservation in Europe and encompasses a complex of four accepted species. While species limits amongst Osmoderma have been intensively studied, patterns of intraspecific variation are poorly known. In this paper, the authors focus on clarifying the phylogeographic structure of the East European Osmoderma barnabita using samples from Croatia to Finland. Samples of hind legs were collected from populations in Latvia and Finland (n=186) and combined with previously-published sequences from GenBank and museum specimens (n=10). In a partial sequence of the mitochondrial COI gene (759 bp), 26 closely related haplotypes were found. Beetle samples from different parts of Europe were distinct and showed no overlap in haplotype composition. The solitary population of Finland proved to be monomorphic and all 97 individuals sampled here belonged to a single haplotype unique to this region. The results suggest the Northern parts of Eastern Europe to be dominated by a single COI haplotype to which most of the other haplotypes are linked by one or two mutations. The pattern seems to reflect a founder effect or a strong bottleneck event. While O. barnabita is widely distributed over Eastern Europe, current patterns of mitochondrial genetic diversity appear influenced by population history and little homogenisation by ongoing gene flow. From a conservation perspective, the patterns suggest that regional populations might need to be managed as subunits and that the population of Finland may be affected by low genetic diversity.
["Osmoderma"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Attraction of different types of wood for adults of Morimus asper (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae)
Morimus asper reproduces mainly in freshly dead wood and, as a consequence, populations are affected by modern forestry practices. The taxon M. funereus, now incorporated into the species M. asper, is protected by the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) and its monitoring has received attention in recent years. Larvae of M. asper are polyphagous, but some studies indicate that adults prefer the wood of some tree species. Freshly cut log piles, which attract adults, have been proposed as a monitoring tool. For monitoring programmes, it is essential to select the most appropriate wood and therefore the attraction of different types of wood for adults of M. asper was investigated in two sites in northern Italian, using freshly cut log piles. The first experiment was carried out in the Nature Reserve Bosco della Fontana (a lowland forest, Mantua province), testing two autochthonous species (Carpinus betulus and Fraxinus ornus) and two allochthonous species (Juglans nigra and Quercus rubra). The second study was conducted in the Parco Naturale Regionale delle Prealpi Giulie (a mountain area, Udine province), employing Fagus sylvatica, Fraxinus excelsior and Picea abies (all autochthonous species). The population of this area belongs to the taxon formerly named M. funereus. In both sites, adults clearly preferred the wood of some particular species: J. nigra at Bosco della Fontana and F. sylvatica in the mountain area. This is the first study which compared the attraction of several tree species and it showed that this selection is important for the monitoring of M. asper.
["Longhorn beetles"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

New Italian records of Lichenophanes varius (Illiger, 1801) (Coleoptera, Bostrichidae)
Lichenophanes varius (Illiger, 1801) is a Turanic-European-Mediterranean species. In most of European countries, this species is protected at different levels and it is classified as “NT” (Near Threatened) in the IUCN European Red List of Saproxylic Beetles. In Italy, it is classified as “EN” (Endangered). Its larvae are saproxylophagous and develop in branches and rotting trunks of many broadleaved tree genera. Nevertheless, this beetle seems to attack only wood which is already invaded by the mycelia of Biscogniauxia spp. (Pyrenomycetes, Xylariaceae). The Italian distribution and ecology of L. varius are updated on the basis of recent records; the species is recorded for the first time from Calabria, where it was reared from Quercus frainetto Ten. which represent a new host-plant record for this beetle. Finally, the authors discuss the possibility that global warming can promote a resurgence of attacks from the above mentioned phytopathogenic fungi in Italian forests and, therefore, this climatic change can also favour the populations of this red-listed beetle.
["Bostrichidae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Detection of stag beetle oviposition sites by combining telemetry and emergence traps
The European stag beetle, Lucanus cervus, is a flagship species for biodiversity conservation of old-growth forests and is protected under the Habitats Directive. Although it has been the focus of active research in the last two decades, many aspects of its ecology and habitat requirements for the larvae remain poorly known, particularly to what extent certain factors limit larval development. The objectives of this preliminary work were: (1) to explore the feasibility of a non-invasive method for detecting oviposition sites; (2) to attempt the characterisation of above-ground ecological factors recorded in the oviposition sites and (3) to quantify the number of traps and operators needed for obtaining a number of beetles suitable for statistical analysis. In 2014, twelve females were followed by means of radio-telemetry to detect potential oviposition sites in a relict broadleaf forest of northern Italy. In 2015, emergence traps were set in nine sites selected from the 21 sites where females were recorded digging deeply in the soil near to dead wood during the previous year. Traps were checked during the 2015 and 2016 flight seasons. Overall, 15 stag beetles were detected (8 males and 7 females) from five emergence trap sites which were therefore regarded as real oviposition sites. All oviposition sites were characterised in terms of typology of dead wood, tree species, canopy openness, trunk diameter, dead wood volume, decomposition stage (five classes) and wood hardness (four classes). All the detected emergence sites belonged to the genus Quercus, two being from the allochthonous Q. rubra, but no preferences for a dead wood species nor for a typology were shown and a broad variation was apparent for all the considered variables. The mean values of canopy openness, diameter, dead wood volume, decay status and wood hardness were 2.54%, 51cm, 4.92m3, 3 and 3.4 respectively. These data suggested an important heterogeneity in the oviposition sites selection. Although this method (telemetry + emergence traps) provided substantial aid to finding newly emerged beetles, it required a large amount of fieldwork effort, both in terms of time and man-hours. The advantage of the method is its low degree of invasion while its drawback is the amount of effort needed. Calculations were made to assess the minimum number of operators and traps needed to gather a number of data suitable for statistical analysis. It was found that two full time operators should be able to detect about 50 potential oviposition sites in one flight season, 28 of which were expected to be real oviposition sites.
["emergence traps"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Latitudinal cline in weapon allometry and phenology of the European stag beetle
Animal body size commonly exhibits a remarkable variation in response to environmental conditions. Latitude, when correlated with temperature, rainfall and seasonality, represents one of the main determinants of variation in body size, as well as in allometry. It has long been recognised that populations of larger body size are found in colder environments (Bergmann’s Rule), a cornerstone of evolutionary ecology. However, the way in which latitude might influence investment in exaggerated weapons of animals has received little attention. The European stag beetle Lucanus cervus (Linnaeus, 1758) is the focus of this study. Males of this species exhibit exaggerated mandibles, mainly used as weapons during intra-sexual conflicts. Five populations ranging from northern Italy to the southern limit of the distribution of L. cervus were analysed. Combining morphological and phenological data, latitudinal variation in body size, weapon investment and activity period of the adults were evaluated. The analysis of the allometry of mandibles strongly supported the presence of two male morphs. Large males (major morph) invest significantly more in weapons compared to males of the minor morph. Consistent with Bergmann’s Rule, these results confirmed that the stag beetle body size increased at higher latitudes (N) and that this increase in size triggers an arms race which leads to further exaggeration of male weapons which is particularly evident in major males. In this morph, the mandible allometric coefficient line was steeper for the northern populations. The activity period also varied with latitude, beginning later at lower latitudes. Characterisation and comparison of adult phenologies provide valuable data to be used in the design of monitoring programmes for this threatened species and are important for modelling the species responses to climate change.
["morphometry"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Spatial analysis of the habitat and distribution of Osmoderma eremita (Scop.) in trees outside of woodlands
The endangered and specialised saproxylic beetle Osmoderma eremita occurs in veteran trees, a habitat particularly threatened by changes in agricultural landscapes. Its conservation requires information about populations and key features of host trees. Surveys of 8,014 trees (pollarded or in hedgerows) were carried out and analysed, based on habitat description (tree level) and spatial information (hedgerow length and distance to the nearest inhabited tree). A suitable cavity was present in 61% of the trees and O. eremita was detected in 42 trees, mainly in Salix (30 observations), the most common tree amongst those surveyed. A small or absent crown was a significant factor in explaining the beetle’s presence, as was the distance to the nearest inhabited tree. The largest population of O. eremita, 19 inhabited trees, was found in a wide and continuous area formed by trees with suitable cavities, with distances of less than 250m from each another. Seven smaller areas, with 7, 5 or 1 inhabited trees, were also found. When analysing inhabited trees on a 1km² grid, 17km2 hosted O. eremita, corresponding to a dense network of 63km of hedges. The presence of O. eremita significantly increased per km² with increasing length of hedges and this variable was thus used to guide forthcoming investigations directed toward Osmoderma. As the hedgerows existing in 1999 had decreased by 6.1% in 2009, it is concluded that the long term survival of O. eremita is under threat. The preservation of trees outside woodlands is urgent and has already started, in connection with Natura 2000 policies. Regeneration and creation of new hedgerows is also ongoing and can be reinforced both by using Salix and by promoting pruning to increase formation of cavities.
["Insect conservation"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Effects of forest fragmentation on the morphological and genetic structure of a dispersal-limited, endangered bird species
Throughout the tropics, pristine forests disappear at an alarming pace. This presents a severe threat to forest-dependent species. Especially dispersal-limited understory birds are affected by forest loss. We here explored the effects of habitat fragmentation on the genetic structure and the morphology of the Ecuadorian Tapaculo (Scytalopus robbinsi). This bird occurs only in a small range in the premontane cloud forests of southwestern Ecuador. The global population size is declining rapidly due to habitat loss and is currently estimated at only 3000 mature individuals. We caught a total of 28 Ecuadorian Tapaculos in forests of varying size in an area of about 40 km². From each bird, we took morphological measurements and a blood sample. This was used to develop a set of 10 species-specific microsatellite primers for genetic analysis and we found that the Ecuadorian Tapaculos display high levels of genetic diversity. Additionally, we identified dispersal corridors for the species across the landscape using a least-cost path analysis. Notably, we found that wing shape is related to forest size. Individuals in smaller fragments show adaptations of the wing morphology to enhanced mobility and better flight capacity. Our results suggest that the Ecuadorian Tapaculo may rapidly adapt its morphology to the level of habitat fragmentation. This potential can possibly mitigate the risk of local extinctions of the species due to human-caused forest loss and fragmentation.
["El Oro Tapaculo"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Large-scale coral reef restoration could assist natural recovery in Seychelles, Indian Ocean
The aim of ecological restoration is to establish self-sustaining and resilient systems. In coral reef restoration, transplantation of nursery-grown corals is seen as a potential method to mitigate reef degradation and enhance recovery. The transplanted reef should be capable of recruiting new juvenile corals to ensure long-term resilience. Here, we quantified how coral transplantation influenced natural coral recruitment at a large-scale coral reef restoration site in Seychelles, Indian Ocean. Between November 2011 and June 2014 a total of 24,431 nursery-grown coral colonies from 10 different coral species were transplanted in 5,225 m2 (0.52 ha) of degraded reef at the no-take marine reserve of Cousin Island Special Reserve in an attempt to assist in natural reef recovery. We present the results of research and monitoring conducted before and after coral transplantation to evaluate the positive effect that the project had on coral recruitment and reef recovery at the restored site. We quantified the density of coral recruits (spat <1 cm) and juveniles (colonies 1-5 cm) at the transplanted site, a degraded control site and a healthy control site at the marine reserve. We used ceramic tiles to estimate coral settlement and visual surveys with 1 m2 quadrats to estimate coral recruitment. Six months after tile deployment, total spat density at the transplanted site (123.4 ± 13.3 spat m-2) was 1.8 times higher than at healthy site (68.4 ± 7.8 spat m-2) and 1.6 times higher than at degraded site (78.2 ± 7.17 spat m-2). Two years after first transplantation, the total recruit density was highest at healthy site (4.8 ± 0.4 recruits m-2), intermediate at transplanted site (2.7 ± 0.4 recruits m-2), and lowest at degraded site (1.7 ± 0.3 recruits m-2). The results suggest that large-scale coral restoration may have a positive influence on coral recruitment and juveniles. The effect of key project techniques on the results are discussed. This study supports the application of large-scale, science-based coral reef restoration projects with at least a 3-year time scale to assist the recovery of damaged reefs.
["Reef recovery"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Does timing of breeding matter less where the grass is greener? Seasonal declines in breeding performance differ between regions in an endangered endemic raptor
The timing of breeding can strongly influence individual breeding performance and fitness. Seasonal declines in breeding parameters have been often documented in birds, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. Fewer studies have investigated whether seasonal declines in productivity vary in space, which would have implications for a species’ population dynamics across its distributional range. We report here on variation in the timing of breeding in the Black Harrier (Circus maurus), an endangered and endemic raptor to Southern Africa. We investigated how key breeding parameters (clutch size, nesting success and productivity) varied with the timing of breeding, weather conditions (rainfall and temperature) and between contrasted regions (coastal vs. interior-mountain). Black Harrier onset of breeding extended over an 8-month period, with a peak of laying between mid-August and end of September. We show a marked seasonal decline in all breeding parameters. Importantly, for clutch size and productivity these seasonal declines differed regionally, being more pronounced in interior-mountain than in coastal regions, where the breeding season was overall shorter. Timing of breeding, clutch size and productivity were also partly explained by weather conditions. In coastal regions, where environmental conditions, in particular rainfall, appear to be less variable, the timing of breeding matters less for breeding output than in interior-mountain regions, and breeding attempts thus occurred over a longer period. The former areas may act as population sources and be key in protecting the long-term population viability of this threatened endemic raptor. This study provides unique evidence for a regionally variable seasonal decline in breeding performance with implications for population biology and conservation.
["Black Harrier"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Butterfly monitoring using systematically placed transects in contrasting climatic regions – exploring an established spatial design for sampling
Butterfly monitoring schemes are recording programs initiated to monitor nationwide butterfly abundance and distribution patterns, often with help from volunteers. The method generates high-resolution data, but may be associated with a degree of habitat sampling bias if volunteers prefer to survey areas perceived to be high-quality butterfly habitats. This can result in habitats becoming underrepresented in the data set, leading to less information about the butterfly populations there. In the present study, we investigate the possibility of applying a spatial design used by the Swedish Bird Survey for nationwide, grid-based sampling, with a goal to get butterfly monitoring data covering a representative sample of different habitats. We surveyed four 2×2 km sampling squares, split into 100 m segments, in the southernmost region of Sweden (Scania) and four in the northernmost region (Norrbotten). The grid-based transects were compared with volunteer-selected transects in a GIS analysis using a refined Swedish version of CORINE land cover data to see how well these two transect designs represent true habitat coverage. A total of 53 km transect was monitored, resulting in 490 individuals and 29 different species recorded. We found that transect cover correlated significantly with overall land cover using both monitoring methods, though standardised transects outperformed volunteer-selected transects in habitat representation in Scania, but not in Norrbotten. Butterflies were found to aggregate significantly in specific habitats, but with contrasting results for the two geographically different regions. Grasslands in both regions generated a high number of recorded butterflies, although so did clear-cut and residential areas in Norrbotten as well. The highest number of individuals recorded per transect was found in bogs in Scania. This study emphasises the value of complementing free site selection monitoring schemes with spatially representative schemes such as the Swedish Bird Survey, and sheds some light on general habitat preferences for Swedish butterflies in two contrasting climatic regions.
["Butterflies"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

Morphological shifts in populations of generalist and specialist amphibians in response to fragmentation of the Brazilian Atlantic forest
Changes in morphological traits, such as body size, body condition, and leg length, are important indicators of changes to life history or habitat quality, which can affect the performance of individuals and therefore the persistence of populations under environmental change. Only very few studies assessed the effect of fragmentation on morphological traits. The few available studies on anurans found that in landscapes with less forest cover body size decreased. Therefore, we predict that body size should also be smaller in fragments compared to continuous forest. Body condition is a further trait closely related to individual performance and thus should decline with more adverse conditions, as is expected in fragments. We tested these hypotheses using snout-vent length, body mass, body condition, and tibia length as response variables. We collected data of a habitat generalist (Rhinella ornata) and a habitat specialist (Ischnocnema guentheri), both leaf-litter amphibian species, from three sites in a fragmented landscape (two isolated and one connected site) and one site in a contiguous part of the Atlantic Forest of Southeast Brazil. In the generalist species, snout-vent-length (SVL) and body mass were significantly lower in fragments compared to the contiguous forest control, whereas tibia length and body condition did not differ among sites. In contrast, SVL, body mass, and tibia length of the specialist species did not differ among sites, but body condition was marginally different among sites, being relatively low in one but not the other isolated fragment. The results indicate that different processes affect the morphology of the two species following habitat fragmentation.
["Fragmentation"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Long-term conservation and rehabilitation of threatened rain forest patches under different human population pressures in West Africa
The management schemes of four rain forest patches in southern Benin and south-western Nigeria, which led to the successful protection of numerous threatened plants and animals over the last 20 plus years, are analysed. Since climatic conditions are similar, tree composition depends largely on different availability of water and documented biodiversity mostly on the availability of taxonomic expertise. Management differs according to accessibility and human population pressure, from total closing off of the forest by an international institute near the mega-polis Ibadan to unmarked borders near Lanzron, a remote village in the lower Ouémé Valley, where foreigners are mostly excluded from visiting the site. In Benin, trees and wildlife (antelopes and monkeys) seem best protected where the local vodoun beliefs are adhered to. This is, however, not sufficient and development aid to support and benefit the local population is needed as exemplified in Zinvié. At the Ibadan and Drabo sites, long-term protection is assured by legally-binding land-titles. Since for all of Lanzron and part of Zinvié these are lacking securing them is a priority. In Ibadan, Nigeria, a major rehabilitation effort is concentrated on bringing relatively old grass land and former village sites under forest cover by planting local trees. Rehabilitation in Drabo, in southern Benin, relies on enriching the naturally occurring fallow succession with rare species from nearby threatened sacred forests. We demonstrate that reversing biodiversity loss is possible but requires a long-term commitment. Recommendations for protecting, stabilizing and enhancing similar small hotspots of biodiversity are made.
["Benin"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Conservation, Biodiversity, and Resource Management"]

A remarkably quick habituation and high use of a rope bridge by an endangered marsupial, the western ringtail possum
Rope bridges are being increasingly installed worldwide to mitigate the negative impacts of roads on arboreal animals. However, monitoring of these structures is still limited and an assessment of factors influencing the crossing behaviours is lacking. We monitored the use of a rope bridge near Busselton, Western Australia by the endangered western ringtail possums (Pseudocheirus occidentalis) in order to identify the patterns of use and factors influencing the crossings. We installed motion sensor cameras and microchip readers on the bridge to record the crossings made by individual animals, and analysed these crossing data using generalised linear models that included factors such as days since the installation of the bridge, breeding season, wind speed, minimum temperature and moonlight. Possums started investigating the bridge even before the installation was completed, and the first complete crossing was recorded only 36 days after the installation, which is remarkably sooner than arboreal species studied in other parts of Australia. The possums crossed the bridge increasingly over 270 days of monitoring at a much higher rate than we expected (8.87 ± 0.59 complete crossings per night). Possums crossed the bridge less on windy nights and warm nights probably due to the risk of being blown away and heat stress on warmer days. Crossings also decreased slightly on brighter nights probably due to the higher risk of predation. Breeding season did not influence the crossings. Pseudocheirus occidentalis habituated to the bridge very quickly, and our results demonstrate that rope bridges have a potential as an effective mitigation measure against the negative impacts of roads on this species. More studies and longer monitoring, as well as investigating whether crossing results in the restoration of gene flow are then needed in order to further assess the true conservation value of these crossing structures.
["Road ecology"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Food supplementation does not increase demographic rates in a passerine species of conservation concern
Numerous studies have examined the effects of the provision of supplementary food on aspects of avian reproductive success, but far fewer have gone on to examine the potential positive effects of food supplementation on the demographic rates which are key for population growth rate. Testing for potential effects of food shortage on vital rates is likely to be particularly important in species of high conservation concern, where populations are particularly small, isolated or decreasing rapidly. Here we test the effects of the provision of supplementary food on reproductive success, body condition at fledging and post-fledging survival of ring ouzels (Turdus torquatus), a species of high conservation concern in the UK. However, food supplementation had no detectable effect on any of these parameters. There was no significant difference in return rates of fed and unfed fledglings in the year following hatching, and most post-fledging mortality was apparently caused by predation by raptors and mustelids. We conclude that the supply of invertebrate food sources for nestlings was not a major limiting factor in our study area, at least during this two-year study. Further studies are required to quantify the precise mix of habitats used by ring ouzels, at the appropriate scale, which provide concealment from predators and access to food supplies throughout the spring and summer months.
["Food supplementation"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Nature conservation on agricultural land: a case study of the endangered Carnaby’s Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus latirostris breeding at Koobabbie in the northern wheatbelt of Western Australia
Nature conservation and agricultural production may be considered as conflicting objectives, but for a wheat and sheep property in Western Australia they have been pivotal management objectives for the last 48 years. Koobabbie, a 7,173 ha property, has retained 41.5% of the original native vegetation, and is a designated Important Bird Area by BirdLife Australia, while still being an economically profitable agricultural enterprise. Since 1987 the owners of Koobabbie have kept detailed records of the avifauna of the property, and encouraged staff from government, non-government and academic organisations to conduct research and monitoring of the endangered Carnaby’s Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus latirostris breeding on their property. In addition, they have instituted control programs for two over-abundant cockatoo species which compete with Carnaby’s Cockatoo for nest sites, and for Feral Cats that are predators of nesting female Carnaby’s Cockatoo and their offspring. This paper presents the results of research and monitoring from 2003-2013, during which seven artificial nesting hollows were erected, and former active nest hollows that had become derelict were repaired. By 2008, the number of breeding pairs on the property was at least 27, but two mass deaths of breeding females in 2009 and 2012 reduced the number of breeding pairs by 80%. This study illustrates the importance of monitoring conservation on private property, and raises a number of issues in relation to management of endangered species dependent on large hollow-bearing trees on private property.
["Carnaby\u2019s Cockatoo"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Variability of soil enzyme activities and vegetation succession following boreal forest surface soil transfer to an artificial hill
A landfill site in southern Finland was converted into urban green space by covering it with a layer of fresh forest humus transferred from nearby construction sites. The aim was to develop the 70 m high artificial hill into a recreational area with high biodiversity of flora and fauna. Forest humus was used as a source of organic matter, plant roots, seeds, soil fauna and microorganisms in order to enable rapid regeneration of diverse vegetation and soil biological functions. In this study we report the results of three years of monitoring of soil enzyme activity and plant species compositional patterns. Monthly soil samples were taken each year between June and September from four sites on the hill and from two standing reference forests using three replicate plots. Activities of 10 different enzymes, soil organic matter (SOM) content, moisture, pH and temperature of the surface layer were monitored. Abundances of vascular plant species were surveyed on the same four hill sites between late May and early September, three times a season in 2004 and 2005. Although the addition of organic soil considerably increased soil enzyme activities (per dw), the activities at the covered hill sites were far lower than in the reference forests. Temporal changes and differences between sites were analysed in more detail per soil organic matter (SOM) in order to reveal differences in the quality of SOM. All the sites had a characteristic enzyme activity pattern and two hill sites showed clear temporal changes. The enzyme activities in uncovered topsoil increased, whereas the activities at the covered Middle site decreased, when compared with other sites at the same time. The different trend between Middle and North sites in enzyme activities may reflect differences in humus material transferred to these sites, but difference in the succession of vegetation affects enzyme activities strongly. Middle yielded higher β-sitosterol content in 2004, as an indication of more intense plant impact. All reclaimed sites had characteristic plant species assemblages and parallel temporal changes, reflecting vegetation succession, occurred across all the sites. Rapid growth of vegetation on the covered sites restored the rhizosphere and contributed to the persistence of microbial activity. We suggest that transferring the surface soil humus layer is a useful approach for ensuring the outcome of habitat restoration and complementary habitat creation especially in situations where the source soil areas would otherwise be lost.
["landfill site"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Estimating population size of a nocturnal burrow-nesting seabird using acoustic monitoring and habitat mapping
Population size assessments for nocturnal burrow-nesting seabirds are logistically challenging because these species are active in colonies only during darkness and often nest on remote islands where manual inspections of breeding burrows are not feasible. Many seabird species are highly vocal, and recent technological innovations now make it possible to record and quantify vocal activity in seabird colonies. Here we test the hypothesis that remotely recorded vocal activity in Cory’s shearwater (Calonectris borealis) breeding colonies in the North Atlantic increases with nest density, and combined this relationship with cliff habitat mapping to estimate the population size of Cory’s shearwaters on the island of Corvo (Azores). We deployed acoustic recording devices in 9 Cory’s shearwater colonies of known size to establish a relationship between vocal activity and local nest density (slope = 1.07, R2 = 0.86, p < 0.001). We used this relationship to predict the nest density in various cliff habitat types and produced a habitat map of breeding cliffs to extrapolate nest density around the island of Corvo. The mean predicted nest density on Corvo ranged from 6.6 (2.1–16.2) to 27.8 (19.5–36.4) nests/ha. Extrapolation of habitat-specific nest densities across the cliff area of Corvo resulted in an estimate of 6326 Cory’s shearwater nests (95% confidence interval: 3735–10,524). This population size estimate is similar to previous assessments, but is too imprecise to detect moderate changes in population size over time. While estimating absolute population size from acoustic recordings may not be sufficiently precise, the strong positive relationship that we found between local nest density and recorded calling rate indicates that passive acoustic monitoring may be useful to document relative changes in seabird populations over time.
["Cory\u2019s shearwater"]
["Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Spatio-temporal patterns of wildlife-vehicle collisions in a region with a high-density road network
This paper is the first to report data on wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVC) in Wallonia, southern Belgium, characterised by one of the densest road network worldwide. With the collaboration of police we identified 3965 accidents involving “free ranging animal” between 2003 and 2011. We observed that these accidents with free ranging animals result in 13% of cases in injuries for the drivers or passengers, and in less than 1% of cases in fatalities (death). 78% of these casualties involve wild animals, among which wild boar take the largest part (39% ). During the covered period we observed an annual increase of WVC of 21%. For wild boar and red deer, this increase was significantly correlated with hunting statistics, used as an index of population density. The temporal analysis demonstrated an increase of WVC during night time with peak of accidents at dusk and dawn. Monthly distribution revealed the role of breeding, dispersal and hunting in shaping temporal patterns of accidents. Spatial analysis, focusing on wild boar, roe deer, red deer and red fox demonstrated clustering of accidents for all these species, until scale between 20 to 70 km. Mapping of accidents via Kernel density analysis permitted us to highlight areas with high risk of WVC risk. Our study suggests that the problem of car accidents due to wildlife is an increasing concern in Wallonia but results on spatial and temporal patterns should help for setting up mitigation measures in the most sensible areas. Moreover we suggest that police data source should be used for nationwide analysis and for comparison between countries.
["Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions (WVC)"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Rabies epidemiology and control"]

Spatial Amphibian Impact Assessment – a management tool for assessment of road effects on regional populations of Moor frogs (Rana arvalis)
An expanding network of roads and railways fragments natural habitat affecting the amount and quality of habitat and reducing connectivity between habitat patches with severe consequences for biodiversity and population persistence. To ensure an ecologically sustainable transportation system it is essential to find agreement between nature conservation and land use. However, sustainable road planning requires adequate tools for assessment, prevention and mitigation of the impacts of infrastructure. In this study, we present a spatially explicit model, SAIA (Spatial Amphibian Impact Assessment), to be used as a standardized and quantitative tool for assessing the impact of roads on pond-breeding amphibians. The model considers a landscape mosaic of breeding habitat, summer habitat and uninhabitable land. As input, we use a GIS-map of the landscape with information on land cover as well as data on observed frog populations in the survey area. The dispersal of juvenile frogs is simulated by means of individual-based modelling, while a population-based model is used for simulating population dynamics. In combination the two types of models generate output on landscape connectivity and population viability. Analyses of maps without the planned road constructions will constitute a “null-model” against which other scenarios can be compared, making it possible to assess the effect of road projects on landscape connectivity and population dynamics. Analyses and comparisons of several alternative road projects can identify the least harmful solution. The effect of mitigation measures, such as new breeding ponds and underpasses, can be evaluated by incorporating them in the maps, thereby enhancing the utility of the model as a management tool in Environmental Impact Assessments. We demonstrate how SAIA can be used to assess which management measures would be best to mitigate the effect of landscape fragmentation caused by road constructions by means of a case study dedicated to the Moor frog (Rana arvalis).
["Rana arvalis"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Changes in behavioural responses to infrastructure affect local and regional connectivity – a simulation study on pond breeding amphibians
An extensive and expanding infrastructural network destroys and fragments natural habitat and has detrimental effect on abundance and population viability of many amphibian species. Roads function as barriers in the landscape. They separate local populations from each other or prevent access to necessary resources. Therefore, road density and traffic intensity in a region may have severe impact on regional as well as local connectivity. Amphibians may be able to detect and avoid unsuitable habitat. Individuals’ ability to avoid roads can reduce road mortality but at the same time road avoidance behaviour, can increase the barrier effect of the road and reduce connectivity. We use an individual based model to explore how changes in road mortality and road avoidance behaviour affect local and regional connectivity in a population of Moor frogs (Rana arvalis). The results indicate that road mortality has a strong negative effect on regional connectivity, but only a small effect on local connectivity. Regional connectivity is positively affected by road avoidance and the effect becomes more pronounced as road mortality decreases. Road avoidance also has a positive effect on local connectivity. When road avoidance is total and the road functions as a 100% barrier regional connectivity is close to zero, while local connectivity exhibit very elevated values. The results suggest that roads may affect not only regional or metapopulation dynamics but also have a direct effect on local population dynamics.
["Rana arvalis"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Are the nesting probabilities of the red-backed shrike related to proximity to roads?
Roads are a pervasive feature in the landscape, and their ecological effects on vertebrate wildlife have been well documented. The main types of effect described are mainly negative consequences on birds and other vertebrates. The major impact of roads on birds includes habitat fragmentation, traffic noise and direct mortality from road kills. However, some passerines, such as the Red-backed Shrike, seem to often use areas close to roads for nesting and hunting purposes.The aim of this paper is to study the importance of road proximity for the selection of suitable shrubs for nesting by the Red-backed Shrike in the farmland landscapes of central Italy. To achieve this goal, the hierarchical partitioning procedures of Generalized Linear Models (GLM) are applied in order to quantify the relative effects of a number of independent variables.At least 77% of the nests we identified were positioned less than 25 meters from roads. The mean distance from the nest to the nearest road was 12.9 ± 18.1 m. The analysis of the relative importance of each variable revealed that “road distance” is one of variables most associated with nesting probability in suitable shrubs. It is reasonable to argue that suitable shrubs and the presence of open spaces for hunting, both of which exist close to countryside roads, might represent the favourable components of the breeding habitat selections of Red-backed Shrikes. Our results can provide useful indications for census techniques and for the planning of conservation measures for the species in agricultural landscapes.
["Road"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

Investigation of fungal root colonizers of the invasive plant Vincetoxicum rossicum and co-occurring local native plants in a field and woodland area in Southern Ontario
Fungal communities forming associations with plant roots have generally been described as ranging from symbiotic to parasitic. Disruptions to these associations consequently can have significant impacts on native plant communities. We examined how invasion by Vincetoxicum rossicum, a plant native to Europe, can alter both the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, as well as the general fungal communities associating with native plant roots in both field and woodland sites in Southern Ontario. In two different sites in the Greater Toronto Area, we took advantage of invasion by V. rossicum and neighbouring uninvaded sites to investigate the fungal communities associating with local plant roots, including goldenrod (Solidago spp.), wild red raspberry (Rubus idaeus), Canada anemone (Anemone canadensis), meadow rue (Thalictrum dioicum), and wild ginger (Asarum canadense). Fungi colonizing roots were characterized with terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis of amplified total fungal (TF) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) ribosomal fragments. We saw a significant effect of the presence of this invader on the diversity of TF phylotypes colonizing native plant roots, and a composition shift of both the TF and AMF community in native roots in both sites. In native communities invaded by V. rossicum, a significant increase in richness and colonization density of TF suggests that invaders such as V. rossicum may be able to influence the composition of soil fungi available to natives, possibly via mechanisms such as increased carbon provision or antibiosis attributable to unique root exudates.
["Plant invasions"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of fossorial snake of the genus Trachischium Günther, 1858, from the Indo–Burma biodiversity hotspot
Herpetozoa
A new species of fossorial natricine snake, Trachischium lalremsangai sp. nov., is described from the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. The holotype was collected from Murlen National Park, Mizoram, near the India–Myanmar border, while the paratype originated from Haka Township, Chin State, Myanmar. Based on morphological and molecular data, the new species is related to T. reticulata (Blyth); however, it can be diagnosed from members of the genus Trachischium by possessing 13 dorsal scale rows, two postoculars, one anterior temporal scale, and two posterior temporal scales, in addition to distinctive colouration and other scalation details. The discovery of several new snake species within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot underscores the need for increased research efforts and funding dedicated to this region in the near future.
["Blythia"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

More dwarfs: a new microendemic species of Vietnamophryne (Anura, Microhylidae) from limestone karst of Quang Tri Province, Central Vietnam
Herpetozoa
A new species of the genus Vietnamophryne is described from limestone karst forests of Quang Tri Province, central Vietnam, based on two adult male specimens and integrative analyses of morphology and mitochondrial DNA. Morphologically, Vietnamophryne abscondita sp. nov. is distinguished from other congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) medium body size (snout-vent length 18.1–19.0 mm in males, n = 2); (2) head slightly wider than long; (3) snout short, rounded in dorsal view; (4) tympanum indistinct; (5) dorsal skin finely shagreened, lacking enlarged tubercles or a median dorsal ridge; (6) Finger I longer than half of Finger II; (7) toes without webbing, bearing rounded terminal discs; (8) forelimbs and hindlimbs slender; (9) dorsum dark brown to chocolate brown, with irregular lighter mottling; (10) flanks and limbs densely speckled with pale spots; (11) ventral surface bright yellow-orange to orange on chest and belly, with dark marbling on throat and ventral surfaces of limbs; (12) lower jaw region with scattered pale blotches; and (13) indistinct pale yellow suborbital spotting extending from the eye toward the mouth corner. Phylogenetic analyses based on the long mtDNA fragment recover Vietnamophryne abscondita sp. nov. as a well-supported independent lineage, showing uncorrected p-distances exceeding 3% from all currently recognized congeners of Vietnamophryne, based on the 16S rRNA gene fragment. Although shallow genetic divergences and limited sampling complicate species boundaries within the genus, further taxonomic changes are not proposed, and current species limits are considered provisional pending comprehensive integrative revision. The discovery of this species, together with a closely related undescribed lineage from the same province, highlights the underestimated diversity of Vietnamophryne and emphasizes the Annamites (Truong Son Mountains) as a priority region for future herpetological surveys.
["Annamites"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Shy highlander: a new species of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950 (Squamata, Scincidae) from montane forests of Yunnan Province, China
A new species of the genus Scincella Mittleman, 1950, is described from Yunnan Province, China, based on an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological and molecular evidence. The new species, Scincella verecunda sp. nov., is diagnosed by a unique combination of morphological characters, including medium body size in adult females (maximum snout–vent length of 48.7 mm); palpebral disc absent; midbody scale rows 25–26; total ventral + gular scale rows numbering 65–68; paravertebral scale rows 62–65; 6–9 enlarged lamellae beneath finger IV, 11–13 beneath toe IV; in life, the dorsum brown and scattered with a few small dark spots, the lateral surface golden-yellow, bearing numerous distinct dark spots, which sometimes connect to form vermiform markings; the dark dorsolateral stripes irregular; and toes not in contact with fingers when limbs are adpressed. Phylogenetic analyses based on concatenated mitochondrial gene sequences (12S, 16S, and CO1) recover the new species as a distinct lineage, forming a clade with S. ouboteri Pham, Pham, Le, Ngoc, Ziegler & Nguyen, S. ochracea (Bourret), and S. reevesii (Gray). The new species status of this population is further supported by marked mitochondrial divergence from its closest relatives (≥ 6.3% in 16S and ≥ 16.6% in CO1) and is currently known only from high-elevation coniferous forest in Linxiang District, Lincang City, Yunnan Province, China (at elevations between 2,113 and 2,358 m a.s.l.). Our data suggest that eyelid morphology may be homoplastic within Scincella and that not all Scincella species necessarily bear a palpebral disc on the lower eyelid. This finding underlines the need for reconsidering the morphological diagnosis of the genus Scincella and allied taxa of sphenomorphine skinks.
["Lincang City"]

Diet and trophic interactions in an introduced population of the Moorish gecko, Tarentola mauritanica (Linnaeus, 1758), of central Chile
Exotic species impact native biodiversity, with alien lizards acting as direct predators and indirectly as prey for other alien species (i.e., trophic subsidies). Tarentola mauritanica, a gecko introduced in Chile, lacks ecological data, complicating threat assessment. It is described as eating arthropods and lizards, and as a trophic subsidy for invasive mammals (e.g., cats) in its native range. Here, we evaluate diet and food availability between two seasons (spring and summer) and identify potential and effective predators in Santiago, Chile. The diet was analysed based on stomach contents, food availability from arthropod traps, and predator occurrence, using an integrative approach that combined faunal surveys, literature, citizen science, fieldwork, camera-traps, and faecal analysis. Tarentola mauritanica has an insectivorous diet that varies between the sampled seasons, consuming mainly Lepidoptera in spring and Coleoptera in summer, with no native lizard prey detected. A mismatch between diet dominance and environmental dominance was observed, which is consistent with some degree of selectivity. Twelve potential predators, primarily birds, were identified, and cats were confirmed as probable predators through the integrative approach. The gecko is mainly insectivorous, and seasonal selective foraging could affect arthropods, especially in urban areas with lower prey diversity and abundance. No native lizards were detected in its diet, but monitoring is advised due to its known saurophagous behavior. The data indicate that cats are probable predators; however, the highly localised scope and exploratory nature of the predator component warrants further evaluation. These findings enhance our understanding of community dynamics and the potential trophic impacts of T. mauritanica in Chile.
["biodiversity loss"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Morphology, ethology, new records, and ecological niche modeling for Hydromorphus and Tretanorhinus (Squamata, Colubridae) in Panama
The genera Hydromorphus and Tretanorhinus (Colubridae) comprise uncommon, poorly studied aquatic snakes, largely because of their nocturnal and aquatic habits. In Panama, four species have been recorded: Hydromorphus concolor, H. dunni, Tretanorhinus mocquardi, and T. nigroluteus. Although more than a century has passed since the first Panamanian record, knowledge of their distribution, morphology, ecology, and behavior remains limited. Through an exhaustive literature review and fieldwork, we updated their distribution and provided seven new records for H. dunni, 16 for H. concolor, six for T. mocquardi, and five for T. nigroluteus. For H. dunni, the only previously known record was the holotype from the original description. We documented substantial range extensions, especially for H. dunni, with new records extending its known distribution by 228 km northeast to Donoso (Colón Province) and 273 km southeast to Altos de Campana National Park, representing the most distant records for the species to date. We report new localities in Darién Province for T. mocquardi and in Bocas del Toro Province for T. nigroluteus, collectively refining the known distribution of these aquatic snakes in Panama. We identified previously unreported variation in the arrangement and number of cephalic scales, particularly in H. dunni, strengthening the morphological basis for taxonomic diagnosis. We also provide an updated morphological dichotomous key. In addition, we contribute to knowledge of the trophic ecology of T. nigroluteus by documenting a direct case of necrophagy during captive feeding trials. Overall, this study provides new information on these taxa in Panama, improves their ecological characterization, and may support future conservation efforts.
["Colubridae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Advertisement calls of Boulenophrys daxuemontis Liu, Li, Cheng, Wei, Wang & Cheng, 2025 (Anura, Megophryidae) from a new distribution record in Nayong County, Guizhou Province
Our study reports a new distribution record for the recently described species Boulenophrys daxuemontis in Nayong County, Guizhou Province, expanding its known range. Furthermore, we provide the first systematic description and quantification of its advertisement call characteristics. Its advertisement call consists of a series of repeated pulsative calls, with a mean call duration of 144.91 ± 24.55 ms and a mean dominant frequency of 3.56 ± 0.12 kHz. Additionally, a detailed quantitative comparison was conducted between its advertisement calls and those of its sister species, Boulenophrys jiangi. Principal component analysis revealed that parameters such as pulse rate, number of pulses per call, and dominant frequency separated the two species in call space, effectively distinguishing these morphologically similar sister species. These unique acoustic features provide evidence supporting the taxonomic status of B. daxuemontis. While our sample size is limited, these findings provide foundational data for future study. Our study not only enriches the fundamental biological database for the genus Boulenophrys but also offers important reference data for biodiversity assessment, conservation, and acoustic identification of cryptic amphibian species in the region.
["\u0430coustic comparison"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A new treefrog of the genus Charadrahyla (Anura, Hylidae) from Oaxaca, Mexico, with comments on the conservation status and distribution of related species
We describe a new species of Charadrahyla from the Sierra Juárez portion of the Sierra Madre Oriental in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, and provide morphological and molecular data to support the novelty of this species. The new species is most similar to Charadrahyla nephila, with which it has been confused in the past. We report on adult, larval, and juvenile specimens of this new species and parapatric C. nephila. We also report a novel population of the endangered Charadrahyla sakbah from the Sierra Monteflor portion of the Sierra Madre Oriental, also in Oaxaca, which significantly extends its known distribution. We provide an updated distribution map for species of Charadrahyla inhabiting Oaxaca. Finally, we provide conservation recommendations for various species in this genus, at least four of which should be considered Endangered.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Herpetofaunal diversity of the disturbed and isolated Bukit Maras in Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia
We present the first checklist of herpetofauna in Bukit Maras (Malaysia) based on surveys conducted from 2019 to 2023. Visual Encounter Surveys (VES) and drift-fenced pitfall traps were employed as collection methods. Our study documented a total of 55 herpetofauna species, comprising 23 amphibians and 32 reptiles. Among these, the critically endangered species, Manouria emys (according to the IUCN Red List) is a species of high conservation concern. The individual-based rarefaction and extrapolation sampling curves were approaching completeness, which indicates that only a few additional species could be discovered if further sampling is conducted. A species-habitat network analysis revealed variations in species composition across different habitat types. Notably, secondary forest exhibited higher herpetofaunal diversity compared to agricultural areas. Overall, the herpetofaunal diversity in Bukit Maras is relatively diverse but the observed disparity in herpetofaunal diversity between the secondary forest and agricultural areas highlights the vulnerability of forest-dependent species to habitat conversion. This suggests a significant decline in overall species richness and potential biotic homogenisation if Bukit Maras is entirely converted to agriculture.
["agricultural area"]

A bird-like vocalization in a treefrog (Anura, Rhacophoridae): Analysis of advertisement call characteristics in Gracixalus weii
The genus Gracixalus is a group of small and medium-sized rhacophorid frogs for which many new species have been described recently, yet little is known about their biology. Gracixalus weii is a species recently described in Guizhou Province, China, whose acoustic characterization was lacking. The advertisement call has a central role in the reproduction of frogs. We present the first detailed acoustic description for G. weii based on recordings from six individuals obtained at the type locality, Leigongshan Nature Reserve. We collected and analyzed 182 calls, and classified them into two different types (Type A and Type B) based on their call structure and note composition. Type A calls (33 calls from two males) consist of an introductory note followed by two click notes, with a mean total duration of 726.59 ± 119.11 ms and a dominant frequency of 2.46 ± 0.10 kHz. Type B calls (149 calls from all six males) comprise an introductory note and a single click note, mean 481.07 ± 77.03 ms in call duration, with a mean dominant frequency of 2.58 ± 0.15 kHz. Both call types exhibit broad frequency ranges (2.0–21.0 kHz). Among individuals possessing both type A and type B calls, type A calls account for 41.9%–69.0% of the vocalizations, while type B calls comprise 31.0%–58.1%. We found that the type A advertisement call of G. weii is similar to the song structure of the thrush Turdus dissimilis. The complex spectral structure may suggest a case of evolutionary convergence between certain anurans and birds in the use of acoustic signals. The advertisement calls of G. weii are notably distinct from those of other known Gracixalus species. These differences provide acoustic evidence supporting the species taxonomic validity. Our findings underscore the value of bioacoustic data in species identification and contribute basic information for future study on the behavior, ecology, and diversity of the understudied Gracixalus genus.
["bioacoustics"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Reptiles and amphibians of the Saudi islands in the Arabian Gulf
The herpetofauna of nine Saudi Arabian islands in the Arabian Gulf was studied. A total of 20 species of amphibians and reptiles within 12 families was reported. The number of species per island ranged from one in four islands to 11 in Tarout Island and tended to increase with island area. The colonization of species was made possible by human introduction, especially of geckos. A classification based on species presence/absence data ranked the islands according to their similarity, geographical location, size, and human use, which influenced reptile communities. A comparison between the reptiles on other islands belonging to the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Iran in the Arabian Gulf was also presented.
["Arabian Gulf"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

A new species of Hemidactylus Goldfuss, 1820 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from the Northern Eastern Ghats, Odisha, India
We describe a new species of large-bodied, rock-dwelling gecko of the genus Hemidactylus from the Eastern Ghats of Odisha, India. The new species is genetically distinct, as already indicated in previous studies, and differs from all other congeners in a combination of morphological characters, such as dorsal scalation of small granules intermixed with large, pointed, trihedral tubercles that form 15–19 fairly regularly arranged longitudinal rows at midbody; 9–11 subdigital lamellae below the first and 12–14 below the fourth digit; 22–26 femoral pores separated by five poreless scales in males; and 11–13 supralabials and 9–11 infralabials. The new species is from the Eastern Ghats clade of large-bodied, tuberculated Hemidactylus and can be readily diagnosed morphologically from the two sister species, H. sushilduttai and H. kangerensis, in having characters such as the second postmental distinct and ~70% of the first postmental; the first postmental touching infralabial I and the second postmental touching infralabials I and II; and one post-cloacal spur on each side. The new species is distributed in the northern Eastern Ghats range of Odisha, inhabiting moist and dry deciduous forests and rock boulders and occasionally entering human habitations.
["Deccan Peninsula"]

First records of albino Aesculapian snakes (Zamenis longissimus) in Hungary
Body color abnormalities can significantly affect reptile fitness, as coloration plays a key role in ecological interactions such as mate selection, predator avoidance, and protection from environmental factors. Albinism—one of the most well-known color abnormalities—is caused by the absence of melanin. In wild snake populations, albinism cases are rare. This study reports the first documented cases of albino Aesculapian snakes (Zamenis longissimus) in Hungary.
["Albinism"]
["melanin and skin pigmentation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A new species of Chinese horned toad (Anura, Megophryidae, Boulenophrys) from western Guangdong Province, China, with recommendations for extinction risk assessments for several related congeners
The genus Boulenophrys is predominantly distributed in China and exhibits high species diversity. However, accurate conservation assessments for this genus are hindered by its unresolved taxonomy, which is linked to morphological conservatism, sympatric distribution patterns, and limited field survey data. In this study, we describe a new species, namely Boulenophrys yangchunensis sp. nov., and report new locality records for B. acuta (Wang, Li & Jin, 2014) and B. yunkaiensis Qi, Wang, Lyu & Wang, 2021 from western Guangdong Province, China. Additionally, we propose downlisting B. acuta, currently listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, to a lower threat category, and we recommend an extinction risk category update for Boulenophrys yangchunensis sp. nov., B. yunkaiensis, and B. gaolanensis Song, Wang, Qi, Wang & Wang, 2024. We further discuss key conservation challenges and provide targeted management recommendations to address these challenges.
["conservation assessment"]

A new species of Hemiphyllodactylus Bleeker, 1860 (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh, India
A new species of the genus Hemiphyllodactylus (slender geckos) is described from the Tirumala Hill ranges in the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve of the southern Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh, southern India. This novel species exhibits 9.7–12.9% divergence in uncorrected pairwise distances of NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) sequence data from its closely related congeners in peninsular India, namely H. jnana (9.5–12.6%), H. nilgiriensis (10.9–12.9%), and H. peninsularis (10.5–11.2%), and had previously been suggested as an undescribed species by earlier researchers based on molecular phylogenetic analyses. The new species, represented by five individuals, reached a maximum observed snout–vent length (SVL) of 33.7 mm and differs from its peninsular Indian congeners by the following combination of characters: 12–16 chin scales; 16–17 dorsal scales; 9–11 ventral scales at midbody; males with 6–8 precloacal pores and 5–7 femoral pores on each thigh, separated by 7–10 poreless scales; and lamellar formula of manus 2-2-2-2 and pes 2-2-2-2. This is the second species of the genus Hemiphyllodactylus to be reported from Andhra Pradesh, after H. arakuensis.
["cryptic diversity"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of the genus Leptobrachella Smith, 1935 (Anura, Megophryidae) from northwestern Guangxi, China
In this study, we describe a new species of the species-rich genus Leptobrachella, Leptobrachella yachangensis sp. nov., from northwestern Guangxi, China, based on a combination of molecular and morphological data. The new species is a sister taxon to L. wumingensis Chen, Peng, Li & Yu, 2023, with discrete, diagnostic differences from all other congeners. We also discussed the phenomenon and causes of the high diversity within this genus as well as the conservation of its congeners.

Tadpoles of three sympatric spiny frogs (Anura, Dicroglossidae, Quasipaa) from Wuyishan, China
During a rapid survey in Wuyishan, China, tadpoles of three Quasipaa species were collected from the same stream. Molecular data confirmed that these tadpoles belong to Q. exilispinosa, Q. spinosa, and Q. jiulongensis. Their external morphology was examined and described. Based on our initial observations, the tadpoles of these three species can be distinguished in the field by the following coloration patterns: Q. jiulongensis lacks large spots on the upper tail musculature; Q. spinosa exhibits a dark stripe at the body–tail junction when viewed from above; and Q. exilispinosa has large spots on the upper tail musculature but lacks a dark stripe at the body–tail junction. This study provides the first description of the tadpole of Q. jiulongensis.

A taxonomic revision of the Ingerophrynus parvus species complex (Amphibia, Anura, Bufonidae) with the description of a new species from Thailand
A review of the taxonomic status of the Ingerophrynus parvus species complex, based on morphological, bioacoustic, and molecular data, revealed a new species from southern Thailand, which we describe as Ingerophrynus сhrysolophus sp. nov. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by the combination of the following morphological characters: parotoid elongate, narrow, and sharply raised; warts on flanks less elevated than those of dorsum; cranial crests not thickened behind eyes; lores vertical; tympanum distinct, its diameter slightly exceeding two-thirds of eye length; tibia short; first finger longer than second; tip of third toe not reaching median subarticular tubercle of fourth toe; subarticular tubercles not enlarged; tarsal spine bases small; nuptial pads present; venter with low warts; ground color of flanks and dorsum light brown; dark brown stripes along the midline of the back; cranial ridges well-developed, bright orange. Phylogenetic analysis of the mtDNA fragment, including the 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and ND1 gene sequences (up to 4,479 bp), confirms the placement of the new species as a sister of Ingerophrynus parvus s. str. (p-distance 5.37%). The genetic distinctiveness of Ingerophrynus сhrysolophus sp. nov. and I. parvus s. str. is further confirmed by not sharing haplotypes of three nuclear genes (POMC, BDNF, and RAG1). Bioacoustic analysis revealed stable differences between the male advertisement calls of the two species. Furthermore, ecological modeling shows that the new species is allopatric with respect to I. parvus s. str.; their ranges are likely separated by a biogeographical boundary of the Kangar-Pattani Line. The new species is currently known from low- to mid-elevations (ca. 65–1,000 m a.s.l.) in tropical forests of southern and western Thailand, southern Myanmar, and southwest Cambodia. We suggest the new species be considered Least Concern (LC) according to the IUCN Red List criteria. Our study further underscores the urgent need for intensified integrative taxonomic research of the genus Ingerophrynus to clarify the taxonomy of wide-ranging species complexes and to elaborate effective conservation measures.

Thermal ecology of the South American leaf-toed gecko Phyllodactylus gerrhopygus (Wiegmann, 1834) (Gekkota, Phyllodactylidae) in northern Chile
Body temperature is fundamental for the ecology of ectotherms due to its direct effect on their fitness. The thermoregulation of small reptiles involves a regulatory process that depends on morphophysiological and behavioural adjustments, along with environmental thermal characteristics, to maintain as close as possible to their optimum temperature. In this study, we evaluated the thermoregulation capacity of Phyllodactylus gerrhopygus, a relatively small and crepuscular-nocturnal gecko. Specifically, the aims of the present work were: 1) to determine if this species behaves as a thermoregulator or thermoconformer species, 2) to examine if the preferred body temperatures (Tpref) vary during the hours of potential thermoregulation and 3) if there are differences in daily patterns of Tpref and thermoregulation between juveniles and adults. In the field, we recorded the Tb of geckos and the substrate (Ts) and air (Ta) temperatures from their refuges. In the laboratory, we evaluated Tpref by recording the temperature geckos selected in a thermal gradient at different times of the day. We found a positive association between Tb and Ts. The positive correlation between Tb and refuge temperature suggests that P. gerrhopygus is a thigmothermic and thermoconformer species. Both juveniles and adults select similar temperatures and neither of them thermoregulates. The Tpref was significantly higher during the evening (32.23 ± 5.91 °C) than the morning period (25.2 ± 9.02 °C). We did not find differences between juveniles and adults. Our results are similar to those found in other phylogenetically close lizards, suggesting a strong phylogenetic inertia in thermal preferences.
["desert climate"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Three new country records of colubrid snakes (Squamata, Colubridae) for the Republic of Kosovo
Three new species of Colubridae are reported for the Republic of Kosovo for the first time in the published literature: Platyceps najadum (Eichwald, 1831), Telescopus fallax (Fleischmann, 1831), and Zamenis situla (Linnaeus, 1758). Literature on bites from these genera is reviewed, and it is demonstrated that no new dangerously venomous snakes are recorded for Kosovo.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Co-occurring Cuban dwarf boas (Tropidophis) show limited dietary differentiation
Interspecific and intraspecific niche partitioning have been widely documented in sympatric snakes. Size variation and ecological differentiation in co-occurring Tropidophis in Cuba suggest differences in diet. We compared dietary composition and niche breadth among three species of Tropidophis in central Cuba: T. pardalis (n = 13), T. semicinctus (n = 28), and T. melanurus (n = 86; 80 large, 6 small individuals). We found complete overlap in diet composition among T. pardalis, T. semicinctus, and small T. melanurus, all of which specialized on lizards of the genus Anolis. In contrast, large T. melanurus had a distinct diet, consisting mostly of amphibians (95%), particularly the Cuban treefrog (Osteopilus septentrionalis; ca. 70%) and two species of toads of the genus Peltophryne (ca. 26%), suggesting an ontogenetic shift in the diet of T. melanurus. The three species of Tropidophis had a narrow trophic niche (B′ ≤ 0.280).
["competition"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

First record of the non-native Chinese stripe-necked turtle (Mauremys sinensis Gray, 1834) from the island of Lesvos, Greece
The number of alien freshwater turtle records has increased in Greece in recent years. These species happen to be high in demand by the aquatic pet trade, and thus anthropogenic mediation has facilitated their dispersal beyond any natural barriers. The deleterious effects of these species on native biodiversity have long been documented. Here, we report for the first time the presence of the Chinese stripe-necked turtle (Mauremys sinensis) on the island of Lesvos, Greece. Lesvos Island has been heavily monitored in the past, revealing the presence of Trachemys scripta. Mauremys sinensis is now the second invasive species on an island, where the population of Emys orbicularis is decreasing faster than previously expected. We urge swift action to assess the population status of the newly discovered invasive species as well as the added effects it may have along with T. scripta on the two native species, Emys orbicularis and Mauremys rivulata.
["alien species"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Genetic diversity within species of Ophisops (Reptilia, Lacertidae) from the Maghreb
Previous phylogeographic assessments within species of the lacertid genus Ophisops have consistently revealed high levels of genetic diversity, suggestive of multiple cryptic species complexes. The snake-eyed lizard Ophisops elegans, endemic to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia, is no exception, although specimens of the North African endemic Ophisops occidentalis from Libya were not distinct from sympatric O. elegans individuals based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) markers. However, the most westerly populations of these two species from Morocco and Algeria were not assessed. Here, we analyzed partial 16S rRNA mtDNA sequences and partial MC1R nuclear sequences from Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia for comparison with previously published data. Our estimates of relationships based on both markers support the hypothesis that all North African populations form a clade, consistent with an east-to-west colonization pattern across this region. Additional mtDNA sublineages were identified, further highlighting genetic diversity in remote areas. While the genetic data indicate that a single species should be recognized in North Africa, high diversity within O. elegans across the remainder of its range still requires further investigation prior to a taxonomic revision differentiating taxa within this species complex.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Behavioral effects of long-chained ketones in Vipera ammodytes: an experimental approach
Snakes heavily depend on chemical communication and use chemical cues for trailing, foraging, searching for mates, and other behaviors. Snake pheromones reported so far are complex mixtures, consisting mainly of heavy, long-chained ketones. However, such ketones cannot be detected in the sex pheromones of some species, and for others, airborne compounds are suggested to participate in intersexual communication. Thus, to establish whether a certain compound is part of the snake sex pheromone, behavioral assays should be performed. The most frequently found ketones in the skin extracts of Vipera ammodytes (Linnaeus, 1758) are 2-pentacosanone and 2-heptacosanone, which are hypothesized to participate in intraspecific communication. In the present study, we test male and female individuals’ responses to paper towels soaked with these two ketones (separately and together), n-hexane, heptacosane, and a control. We suggest that the ketones produced by V. ammodytes have a role in intraspecific communication and demonstrate that they elicit specific courtship-related behaviors in males, but not in females. Our results further show that 2-pentacosanone and 2-heptacosanone evoke sexual attraction, with their combination proving more effective than either compound alone, although the modest response suggests that other compounds may also be involved. We suggest that there are additional compounds, of a different nature, that most likely constitute the female sex pheromone. We hypothesize that males can also produce these ketones, which may provide them with a mating advantage by emitting false cues to rivals.
["communication"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of the genus Boulenophrys (Anura, Megophryidae) from Guizhou, China
Based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, a new species of the genus Boulenophrys is described from Yezhong Nature Reserve, Shuicheng County, Guizhou Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial genes 16S rRNA and COI indicate that this new species represents an independent species-level lineage, closely related to B. fanjingmontis, B. qianbeiensis, B. sangzhiensis, and B. spinata. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characteristics: (1) body size moderate (SVL 41.2–46.2 mm in adult males and 51.8–58.6 mm in adult females); (2) a single small horn-like tubercle at the edge of each upper eyelid; (3) vomerine teeth absent; (4) tongue not notched posteriorly; (5) tympanum distinctly visible, round; (6) toes with rudimentary webbing and narrow lateral fringes; (7) heels overlapping when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; (8) tibiotarsal articulation reaching the level of the middle of the eye when the leg is stretched forward; (9) a single internal subgular vocal sac in males; (10) in breeding males, the nuptial pads have black nuptial spines on the bases of the first and second fingers.
["Boulenophrys yezhongensis sp. nov."]

On the thermal ecology of two coexisting lizard species (Reptilia, Lacertidae) in a hot and dry area of Bulgaria
Thermal ecology plays a key role in shaping the behavior and distribution of reptiles, particularly under climate stress. Understanding how sympatric lizard species manage their thermal preferences is essential for predicting their responses to changing climate. We studied thermo-ecological parameters in two lizard species, Lacerta viridis and L. trilineata that occur under syntopy in SW Bulgaria. We recorded in situ body, air and substrate temperatures, humidity and UV radiation for 190 individuals. Both species maintained body temperatures higher than air and substrate temperature. Comparison of the two species showed statistically significant differences between them in terms of body and substrate temperature, with a trend towards higher values in L. viridis. For L. trilineata, statistically significant differences were found only between immatures and females in terms of substrate temperature (higher values in females). For L. viridis, there were significant differences between immatures and males in each of the temperature parameters (with a trend for higher values in males) as well as between immatures and females in air temperature (higher values in females). No significant differences were found in humidity or UV exposure among groups. Our findings reveal species- and sex-specific thermal strategies in two co-existing lacertids, likely reflecting different ecological or physiological demands. The results provide valuable baseline data for predicting species responses to increasing temperatures in hot and dry habitats.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The Balkans in Central Europe: a case of introduced lineage of Podarcis muralis in Slovakia highlighting the impact of international trading and climate change
This study presents the first genetically confirmed record of an introduced population of Podarcis muralis in Slovakia, specifically in the village of Imeľ (southwestern Slovakia, Komárno District), in the Danubian Lowland. The population was likely introduced via the horticultural trade from the western Balkans. It was identified at a horticultural site specializing in the sale of Mediterranean plants from Albania, with individuals of all age stages documented since its initial observation in 2020. Mitochondrial DNA analysis revealed distinct haplotypes that closely cluster with those from northern Albania, indicating clear genetic differentiation from native Slovak populations. This finding was further supported by a species distribution model, which suggested that the Danubian Lowland does not offer a suitable environment for the presence and reproduction of native Slovakian populations. In contrast, a spatial similarity model found environmental similarities between the Danubian Lowland and parts of the western Balkans (northern Albanian lowlands and southern Montenegro). This introduction highlights the role of international trade in facilitating the spread of non-native species, posing potential risks such as hybridization with local populations. With a warming climate, conditions may increasingly favour the establishment of such introduced populations. Thus, regular monitoring is essential to evaluate the implications of these findings for conservation and to safeguard native genetic diversity.
["Albania"]
["Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Revisiting Spanopoula islet: Podarcis erhardii (Bedriaga, 1886) population thriving 45 years after first recorded
The Erhard’s wall lizard Podarcis erhardii (Bedriaga, 1886) was first recorded on the tiny rocky islet of Spanopoula, near Kea (Aegean Archipelago, Greece), in 1980. Since then, there has been no other published reference to confirm the species’ presence or to estimate its population status. Here, we report on a herpetological survey we carried out on Spanopoula 44 years later, which added a third species (Mediodactylus kotschyi) to the islet’s herpetofauna list. During our visit, we collected body-size measurements and tissue samples for the molecular identification of the Podarcis lizards inhabiting the islet. We found a thriving population of medium-sized wall lizards, belonging to the mainland form, P. erhardii livadiacus (Werner, 1902). As this subspecies is not present in adjacent Kea and nearby islands, our finding supports a human-mediated dispersal scenario.
["Aegean Archipelago"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A new record of the Greek frog at the northern border of the species area
The Greek frog (Rana graeca) is a European species, endemic to the Balkan Peninsula. This brown frog inhabits hilly/mountain areas where it almost exclusively spawns in fast-running streams and rivers. The northern border of the species distribution range spreads from northwestern Bosnia & Herzegovina to northwestern Serbia and then shifts towards the southeastern Balkans. The new records noticed in the central part of Serbia (Šumadija) suggest that the presence of the Greek frog could be easily overlooked if a locality is not inspected at the right time of the year. Possible suitable habitats positioned more to the north from the present northern contours of the species area should be thoroughly explored.
["distribution range"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Movement patterns and habitat use within the home range of the Asiatic toad (Bufo gargarizans) prior to hibernation
Understanding the movement patterns and home range of a species is essential for developing effective conservation strategies. However, research on these aspects in the Asiatic toad (Bufo gargarizans) in South Korea remains limited, highlighting the need for further study. This study used radiotelemetry to examine the movement patterns and home range characteristics of B. gargarizans, aiming to enhance ecological understanding and inform conservation efforts. Our findings revealed that immobility (0 m) was the most frequently observed behavior among individuals. Excluding instances of immobility, individuals’ movement ability was 32.1 ± 51.0 m (N = 131, range: 0.1–360.9 m). Home range size, estimated using the minimum convex polygon (MCP) method, was 2,484.0 ± 4,461.0 m² (N = 24, range: 40.7–20,644.9 m²), representing the general movement area of B. gargarizans. The kernel density estimation (KDE) method estimates 55,004.9 ± 113,702.5 m² (N = 24, range: 425.9–491,232.2 m²), representing the potential buffer zone within which B. gargarizans may move. Regardless of the analysis method or sex, over 50% of habitats consisted of grass, while approximately 20% was used areas. Although no significant differences in movement patterns or home range size were observed between sexes, males were primarily distributed at lower altitudes near breeding sites, whereas females were distributed at higher altitudes around valley areas. These findings provide crucial baseline data for the conservation and management of B. gargarizans populations in South Korea.
["conservation and management"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

The herpetofauna of Despotiko Island (Cyclades, Greece)
The Aegean Islands are a known hotspot for herpetofauna and have been extensively studied in this area. However, there are still numerous islands that lack this research. This includes the uninhabited islet of Despotiko found in the Paros Archipelago, Cyclades. It is known for its importance in archaeology, which, in turn, attracts tourism. However, there is not yet a complete understanding of the presence of herpetofauna there, with the last published records written in 1977. In an effort to address this, a combination of past ad-hoc sightings and visual surveys was carried out during the summer of 2024. These yielded two new records of reptile species, Eryx jaculus and Lacerta citrovittata. Furthermore, the enclosed archaeological site had greater reptile diversity and richness than outside the site. This highlights the potential importance of the archaeological site as a key reptile habitat. Our findings help to improve our understanding of reptilian diversity in the archipelago, providing avenues for further research into the potential interactions between archaeological sites and reptile diversity.
["Aegean Islands"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Dolichophis caspius road mortality at its northern distribution range limit: the lower Olt River valley, southern Romania
Dolichophis caspius is frequently affected by road mortality, with many victims recorded also in Romania. Although some regions in the country have a presumptive high risk of road mortality, there is no certain data from all regions. In 2021 and 2024, we analyzed this species’ road mortality at its northern distribution range limit (lower Olt River valley, southern Romania). We identified 66 road-killed D. caspius over the course of eight days. Most victims (62.12%) were juveniles. The high number of road-killed juveniles is a consequence of the road`s features, which crosses many small human settlements (villages) and has numerous curves and speed enforcement cameras; therefore, the speed is reduced to 50 km/h. Consequently, the small-sized road-killed juveniles were easier to observe, as compared to roads of higher speeds, where they can be easily missed. The high number of juveniles indicates that in the region there are large populations that reproduce, as they are probably favored by climate warming. Although the absolute number of road-killed juveniles was higher at the end of summer and autumn, the ratio of juveniles and adults was the same in spring. The differences in road mortality on different days, even of the same month, indicate the importance of local microclimate conditions for the activity and road mortality of D. caspius. The lower Olt River valley region has a high risk of road mortality for this species, as it shows the scale of this phenomenon by highlighting the impact on juveniles.
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Biomass Utilization and Management"]

A new endemic karst-associated species of lance-headed pit viper (Squamata, Viperidae, Protobothrops) from Laos
We describe a new species of lance-headed pit viper from north-western Laos, based on morphological and molecular (6092 bp from cyt b, ND4, COI, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA mitochondrial DNA genes and c-mos and RAG1 nuclear DNA genes) lines of evidence. Protobothrops flavirostris sp. nov. is easily distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of morphological characters: dorsal scales in 23–21–17 rows, all keeled; ventral scales 215; subcaudal scales 79, all paired; supralabials 7–8; infralabials 10; horn-like projections on supraoculars absent; head triangular with a typical lance-shaped pattern on its dorsal surface; three faint dark vertical stripes on the snout; head blackish-brown with rostral, nasals, preoculars, loreals and the two anterior supralabials, as well as the anterior parts of supraoculars yellow-orange; dorsal surfaces of body and tail brown or greyish-brown, dorsum with large dark reddish-brown cross-shaped blotches, edged in black, somewhat fused together forming an interrupted zigzag line and a row of large brown ventrolateral blotches on each side. The new species differs from the morphologically similar species Protobothrops kelomohy by a significant divergence in cytochrome b mitochondrial DNA gene sequences (p = 7.8%). The new species is currently known only from tropical limestone forest of Vientiane Province, north-western Laos (elevation 362 m a.s.l.). We suggest the new species be considered as Endangered (EN) following the IUCN’s Red List categories.
["Indochina"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and animal studies"]

A genetically confirmed hybrid between Natrix astreptophora and N. maura, two deeply divergent and ancient snake species
Using two mitochondrial DNA fragments and six nuclear genes, we confirmed that a morphologically intermediate snake, captured in Andalusia, southwestern Spain (municipality of Huelva), was an F1 hybrid between a female Natrix astreptophora and a male N. maura. The two parental species diverged 21.5 million years ago, which is why their capability to hybridize is remarkable. The interspecific mating could have been facilitated by the rarity of N. astreptophora and the abundance of N. maura in southwestern Spain, making it difficult for N. astreptophora females to find conspecific males. In the face of previously published genomic signatures for ancient gene flow between N. astreptophora and N. maura, our finding raises the question of whether occasional hybridization still contributes to a continued exchange of genetic information between these two deeply divergent and old taxa.
["Huelva"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New records and modeling potential distribution of Plestiodon tamdaoensis (Bourret, 1937) and Scincella devorator (Darevsky, Orlov & Ho, 2004) in Vietnam (Scincidae)
The Vietnam Skink (Plestiodon tamdaoensis) was described from Tam Dao National Park, Vietnam, in 1937, and the species is currently known only from northern Vietnam and Hong Kong of China, whereas the Devouring Forest Skink (Scincella devorator) was described from Yen Tu Nature Reserve, Vietnam, in 2004, and the species is endemic to northern Vietnam. As a result of our field surveys in 2023 and 2024 in Ba Vi National Park, Vietnam, we reported new distribution records, morphological data, and natural history of Plestiodon tamdaoensis and Scincella devorator. In addition, we used species distribution modeling to predict the potential distribution of these species. The model showed that the potential distribution of P. tamdaoensis is approximately 110,000 km2 and that of S. devorator is approximately 130,000 km2, covering northern Vietnam, southern China, and northern Laos, significantly expanding its known range compared to the IUCN range map.
["Ba Vi National Park"]

A new historical occurrence of the Hungarian meadow viper (Vipera ursinii rakosiensis) in Hungary
We present the discovery of the mummified remains of a Vipera ursinii rakosiensis collected in 1962 from a previously unknown occurrence location in Hungary. The first author took pictures of the specimen back in 2003; there is no information about the current whereabouts of the remains.
["habitat"]
["Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Turtles and ice: winter activity in non-native turtles in Romania
We present records of winter activity of non-native turtles, especially Trachemys scripta, the most common alien turtle in Romania. This species was observed basking in urban park lake settings in the winter months at the beginning of 2024. Trachemys scripta individuals were active during atypically warm days, but not during alternating cold spells with snowfall and ice formation; on warm days, turtles were also observed in the proximity of persisting lake ice. Other aquatic turtle species emerged from hibernation at the end of the winter, when temperatures were considerably higher, nearing 20 °C.
["alien species in Romania"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Vocalizations of Atelopus ignescens (Cornalia, 1849): The repertoire of a resilient species that whispers not to disappear
The Atelopus (or harlequin frogs) have become a symbol of the ongoing efforts to conserve biodiversity in Ecuador over the past few decades. Atelopus ignescens, also known as jambato, was previously considered to be an extinct species until it was rediscovered in the Andean locality of Angamarca, Ecuador. This study presents and describes the calls of Atelopus ignescens for the first time. These are low intensity sounds that comprise a repertoire of three distinct call types: tonal, short and pulsed call. They have different spectral and temporal characteristics. The most notable difference in their structure is the presence or absence of pulses and the frequency modulation observed in tonal calls. In terms of spectral characteristics, the mean dominant frequency is 1.7 kHz, with up to 11 harmonics visible. A peculiar feature of the Jambato is the absence of a tympanic middle ear, a characteristic observed in the majority of Atelopus species. The absence of these structures, however, does not mean that harlequin toads are deaf since they seem to have extratympanic mechanisms of audition. It is our hope that our contribution will stimulate further research into the bioacoustics and behavior of this endangered and relatively unknown group of anurans.
["acoustic communication"]
["Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

Phylogeographic pattern and taxonomic revision of the Kaloula baleata species complex (Amphibia, Anura, Microhylidae) with description of two new species from Indochina
Despite increased attention by molecular taxonomists, the herpetofauna of Southeast Asia still hides many undescribed species among far-ranging taxa. In this study, we re-examine the mitochondrial diversity of painted frogs of the microhylid genus Kaloula, based on ~2,455 bp of published and new 12S and 16S rRNA sequences, and describe two new species from the tropical forests of southern Vietnam and central Laos based on integrative evidence. These species, which belong to the K. baleata complex, feature species-level mitochondrial divergence (> 4.4% at 16S rRNA) and are both morphologically well-differentiated from each other and from the recently described K. indochinensis, to which they were previously confounded. Comparative examinations also indicate distinct male advertisement calls and unique coloration features. Based on genetic barcoding, we preliminarily revise the species distribution ranges in the K. baleata complex, which support a general pattern of biogeographic partitioning that has been widely retrieved among the Indochinese amphibians studied so far. Molecular diversity within K. baleata further suggests genetic structure across Sundaland, namely three shallow mitochondrial haplogroups worthy of fine-scale phylogeographic and taxonomic investigations. Furthermore, our study highlights the propensity of amphibian species “hidden in plain sight,” even among recently studied taxa, thus calling for caution when specifying type specimens—the type series of K. indochinensis, described in 2013, includes specimens of the one of the new species. Our study emphasizes the continued need for thorough herpetological surveys even in supposedly well-known parts of Indochina and sets the ground for future research in Kaloula painted frogs, notably to test evolutionary and taxonomic hypotheses with genomic loci.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new endemic insular species of the genus Colubroelaps (Squamata, Serpentes, Colubroidea) from Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
A new species of the poorly known genus Colubroelaps Orlov, Kharin, Ananjeva, Nguyen & Nguyen, 2009, is described based on a single female specimen collected from Hon Tre Island, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam. The new species, Colubroelaps adleri sp. nov., can be distinguished from its sister species Colubroelaps nguyenvansangi Orlov, Kharin, Ananjeva, Nguyen & Nguyen, 2009 by the following combination of morphological characters: small body size (TL 402 mm); tail relatively short (ratio TaL/TL 0.10); dorsal scales in 14–14–14 rows; supralabials six, third and fourth entering orbit; infralabials seven; loreal present; ventral scales 234; subcaudals 30, all divided; cloacal plate divided; dorsal coloration pale brown, with narrow and interrupted dark stripe along spine; body flanks dark-gray lacking bluish iridescence; ventrally uniform off-white; head black with rostral, nasals, prefrontals, preoculars, loreal, and the two anterior supralabials, as well as anterior parts of supraoculars and frontal dirty yellowish-brown with dark-brown spots. This discovery represents the second known species of the genus Colubroelaps and the first record of the genus in the coastal areas of southern-central Vietnam. The new species is likely micro-endemic to the small island of Hon Tre within Nha Trang Bay in Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam, at an elevation of 30 m a.s.l., and was recorded only from the heavily disturbed secondary forest area of the island. The new species is under threat due to the intensifying development of tourist infrastructure on Hon Tre Island. We suggest that the new species be considered Endangered (EN) following the IUCN’s Red List categories.
["Colubroelaps adleri sp. nov."]

The advertisement call of Leptobrachella dushanensis (Anura, Megophryidae)
We describe the advertisement call of the Dushan Leaf Litter Toad, Leptobrachella dushanensis, based on recordings obtained from three individuals from its type locality. The advertisement call of L. dushanensis consists of a single note with a dominant frequency of 4.84–4.91 kHz. Furthermore, we compare the differences in advertisement calls between L. dushanensis and its sister species, Leptobrachella dong. The advertisement calls of L. dushanensis and L. dong can be clearly distinguished. Our findings provide bioacoustic evidence supporting the taxonomic status of L. dushanensis and provide basic data for future behavioral and ecological studies on Leptobrachella.
["acoustic differences"]

Rediscovery and redescription of Ixalus garo Boulenger, 1919, and Ixalus kempiae Boulenger, 1919, with a reassessment of the taxonomic status of Raorchestes cangyuanensis Wu, Suwannapoom, Xu, Murphy & Che, 2019 and the description of a new species from the Garo Hills of Meghalaya
Bush frogs from Garo and Khasi Hills were collected, and a thorough examination based on morphology and geographic distribution revealed that two of the populations sampled from Garo Hills during this study agree with the holotypes and descriptions of the taxa Ixalus garo and I. kempiae, described more than a century ago. The original description lacked information on several morphological characters, genetic material, and photographs of the species in life. The absence of such information posed challenges in field identification of these species. Our phylogeny shows them to be nested within the Raorchestes clade, and therefore, we allocate these two species to this genus and formally announce their rediscovery. We also redescribe these two species here based on additional adult vouchers and report geographic range extensions from new localities. Based on molecular and morphological analysis, we reassess the status of the recently described Raorchestes cangyuanensis, resulting in its placement under the subjective junior synonymy of R. kempiae. We also describe a morphologically distinct new species from this region. This paper bridges an important gap in the knowledge of the genus Raorchestes in this part of India and highlights the importance of systematic surveys in documenting and understanding amphibian diversity in the region.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Water bodies created by peatland restoration are potential habitats for amphibians and reptiles
In Lower Austria’s Waldviertel region, artificial drainage ditches were constructed in the last century in order to use peatlands for forestry, agriculture, and peat extraction. By now, many of these peatlands are part of the Natura 2000 network and therefore gradually undergo restoration measures, which aim to rewet the peatlands. For this, the ditches are blocked with wooden dams, leading to a water runback, which in turn fills the ditches and peat pools. Such artificial water bodies generally depict secondary habitats for many species. Here, we investigated the amphibian fauna in four restored peatlands in the Waldviertel region and measured abiotic factors of the aquatic habitats to answer the question whether blocked ditches and peat pools are valuable secondary habitats for amphibians. We characterized the microhabitats of amphibians based on various structures and vegetation. Additionally, this study provides a basic assessment of reptile species in the investigated peatlands. During our assessment, we observed 1520 individuals of eight amphibian species, 64 individuals of four reptile species, and characterized 12 different microhabitats. Despite the low pH values of 3.2–4.2, four amphibian species and amphibian spawn were detected in Schwarzes Moos. Our results indicate that peat pools, drainage ditches, and open moorlands are potential habitats for amphibians and reptiles, making their conservation and management an important factor in the protection of amphibian and reptile species.
["acid tolerance"]
["Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Update on the herpetofauna of Syros (Cyclades, Greece) and current land-use and climate change threats
The current knowledge on the herpetofauna of Syros is updated, whereby no publications on it have been made since 1975. I provide the results from a field trip in 2024 that focused on the hygrophilous species. The Balkan Water Frog and the Balkan Terrapin, mentioned for Syros in the 19th century, meanwhile have become extinct. The Green Toad is threatened with extinction, the status of the Grass Snake is unclear. The Green Toad has benefited previously from anthropogenic spawning grounds in the form of open cisterns, which have fallen into disuse and thus are no longer available to the amphibians. The ongoing climate change in the Aegean region is reflected in drier winters, which dry out water bodies. The situation for the wetlands and their fauna and flora on Syros is alarming.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Description of a new species of the Asian newt genus Tylototriton (Amphibia, Urodela, Salamandridae) from Hunan Province, China
The newt genus Tylototriton is widely distributed in east, southeast, and south Asia. Previous studies have shown that basic surveys of this genus are far from comprehensive, and unknown species still exist within the group. In this study, we described a new species of this genus, Tylototriton gaowangjienensis sp. nov., from Gaowangjie National Nature Reserve in Hunan Province, China, based on evidence from molecular identification and morphological comparisons. Additionally, we conducted phylogenetic analysis of the genus to elucidate the taxonomic status of the new species. Based on combined mitochondrial 16S rRNA and ND2 gene sequences, the phylogenetic tree supported the new species as a member of the T. wenxianensis species subclade in the subgenus Yaotriton. It can be distinguished from its congeners by the combination of the following characteristics: (1) medium-sized body; (2) finger tips extending beyond the snout while forelimbs stretched forward; (3) tips of forelimbs and hindlimbs reaching and overlapping when folded towards the body; (4) snout edge round; (5) absence of small papillae in the male cloacal fissure; (6) dorsal ridges narrow, with width smaller than the eye diameter; (7) head length (HDL) greater than head width (HDW) (HDL/HDW = 1.04~1.22); (8) orange markings absence on the parotoid; (9) nodule-like warts on body sides continuous; (10) vomerine teeth not connected at the tip, extending to the occipital bone at the posterior end.

Crabs as snake predators? An observation from southern Italy leading to a comprehensive review
The recent elevation of the Western Grass Snake, Natrix helvetica, from subspecies status prompted an assessment of its natural history and ecological traits compared to closely related species. We report an unusual predation attempt by the freshwater crab Potamon fluviatile on N. helvetica sicula from Sicily, indicating an ecological interaction previously overlooked in this species. The observation suggests that this crab may utilise snakes’ muscle tissue as an additional nutrient source. This predator-prey interaction, although probably rare, adds to the understanding of the dynamics between crabs and snakes, shedding light on their interaction in freshwater habitats. To provide context for our observation and highlight its rarity, we searched through scientific literature and online sources to generate a comprehensive review of the phenomenon that examines the predatory behaviour of crabs on snakes.
["Decapoda"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Lethal grip for an endangered endemic frog: The freshwater crab Potamon karpathos (Decapoda, Potamidae) preys on Karpathos water frog Pelophylax cerigensis (Anura, Ranidae)
Invertebrate predation on amphibians is widespread, although unreported in Europe. Here, we present documented predation of the Karpathos water frog (Pelophylax cerigensis) by the crab Potamon karpathos. Pelophylax cerigensis is an endangered, endemic species exclusively found on the Rhodes and Karpathos Islands in the South Aegean Sea, Greece. The Karpathos population is at risk due to limited suitable habitats and a scarcity of freshwater bodies on the island. From April to October, when there is no rain on the island, frogs and crabs cohabitate, sharing the same shallow ditches. Incidents of frog predation by crabs are common, indicated by numerous individuals with amputated limbs and scars, representing an additional threat to the endangered frog. Further research on the interactions between the two species is urgently required, as it has direct conservation implications.
["Aegean Sea"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Microhabitat preferences in the European green lizard (Lacerta viridis): implications for conservation management of isolated populations
The European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) populations in Bohemia, Czech Republic, are isolated by more than 150 km from the northern border of the continuous range of the species. These populations are fragmented and further isolated from each other. In this landscape mosaic, they are tied to specific habitats located in deeply incised river valleys (the so-called river phenomenon) and thus may be viewed as stenotopic. The research site is located on the northern edge of the city of Prague. Since 1998, this site has been the subject of long-term conservation management aimed at strengthening and maintaining the abundance of the local L. viridis population. To formulate recommendations for the management of other isolated L. viridis populations, we performed a spatial analysis of the localities with observed individuals to determine and evaluate the significance of the chosen biotic and abiotic factors for habitat discrimination. We applied principal components and discriminant function analyses and examined the effect of 24 variables on the species’ presence. The results revealed the principal role of the presence of rock debris and hiding places for lizard occurrence. The strongest negative predictors were the presence of tall grass and high vegetation coverage. We discuss the applicability of our findings in both the theory and practice of species conservation and population management.
["climate change"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

New data on the diversity and distribution of lineages of the Acanthodactylus erythrurus species complex in North Africa derived from mitochondrial DNA markers
Patterns of morphological and genetic diversity within the fringe-toed lizards of the genus Acanthodactylus have puzzled systematists since the first assessments, and none more so than the Acanthodactylus erythrurus complex. A recent study combining multi-locus sequence data and morphological characters partially resolved the situation, identifying two new species in the southern part of the range in Morocco, but leaving an unresolved “Ibero-Moroccan” clade containing much of the genetic and morphological diversity. Here we sequenced a mitochondrial marker for new samples from across much of the distribution. Our data notably increase the known ranges of various species and lineages found in Morocco, and indicate a divergent genetic lineage within one of the newly described species. While far greater numbers of genetic markers will be needed to resolve taxonomic questions, greater geographic sampling is also still needed both to delimit the species, and to identify regions where potential genetic admixture may occur.
["Acanthodactylus lacrymae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The herpetofauna of the Sporades Islands (Aegean Sea, Greece): New discoveries and a review of a century of research
The Sporades are one of the most biologically important archipelagos in the Aegean Sea (Greece) and have received priority conservation over the last 50 years. However, despite numerous early efforts, its herpetofauna is only partially described, resulting in many distributional gaps that have prevented adequate understanding and management of the resident species communities. We review one century of bibliography from the Northern Sporades and combine this information with a review of museum specimens and insights from numerous extensive field surveys over the last near-decade to provide for the first time a comprehensive picture of the reptiles and amphibians of the archipelago. We report here on 26 new island records and find that the herptile communities of the region are largely derived from the herpetofauna of the nearby Thessaly mainland, with only a few introduced taxa. There is also a small but significant set of endemic taxa in the archipelago. Island species richness declines with decreasing island size and increasing duration of island isolation. Herptile communities on smaller islands are progressively nested subsets of the communities on larger islands. The presence of reptile species depends sensitively on the condition and management of native ecosystems. While non-aquatic species maintain largely healthy populations, most populations are under pressure from the combined effects of rampant tourist development, the destruction and degradation of rare wetland habitats, and the abandonment of traditional agricultural landscapes. We provide recommendations regarding sustainable management of the local reptile and amphibian populations.

First record of Hemidactylus turcicus (Linnaeus, 1758) from Piperi Island, Northern Sporades, Greece
New records of species distribution help advance our understanding of species biogeographical dynamics and, potentially, local adaptations. Here, we report for the first time the presence of the Mediterranean house gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus) on a small, isolated Aegean island from which only one other reptile species has been previously documented. This discovery contributes new distribution data, enriching future assessments of both the species and its habitat.
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Vine snakes (Oxybelis) and Sharpnose snakes (Xenoxybelis) (Squamata, Serpentes) from lowlands of Bolivia, with first records of Oxybelis inkaterra for the country
We present information on the occurrence of colubrid vine snakes (Oxybelis) and dipsadid sharpnose snakes (Xenoxybelis) from the lowlands of Bolivia. These genera have been poorly reported from Bolivia and information presented herein includes nine new record provincials from the departments of Beni, Cochabamba, La Paz, Pando, and Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Moreover, we present the first records of Oxybelis inkaterra Jadin, Jowers, Orlofske, Duellman, Blair & Murphy, 2021 from Bolivia and we extend the known range of this species by approximately 207 km (Río Sipia, La Paz) and 628 km (Campamento Guacharos, Cochabamba) southeast of the type locality (Puerto Maldonado, Peru) in South America. In addition, we present morphometric information, meristic characters, coloration pattern, ecological aspects and natural history for the three species of vine snakes (O. aeneus, O. fulgidus, O. inkaterra) and two species of sharpnose snakes (X. argenteus, X. boulengeri) from the Bolivian lowlands.
["Arboreal"]

Earthworms as a prey source for the insular snake Thamnophis sirtalis (Linnaeus, 1758)
Insular organisms typically evolve in closed, isolated systems; thus, changes caused by introduced species can drastically affect their ecology. Isle Royale National Park (Michigan, USA) is a remote island in Lake Superior that, until relatively recently, was void of earthworms. Its two native natricine snakes are known to feed on earthworms on the mainland; here, we confirm that eastern gartersnakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) are also feeding on earthworms on Isle Royale. It is unknown how this new important dietary source will impact the snake ecology on Isle Royale.
["diet"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

First description of the female of Achalinus sheni (Serpentes, Xenodermidae), with expanded description of this species
Achalinus sheni Ma, Xu, Qi, Wang, Tang, Huang & Jiang, 2023 was originally described based on only male specimens from Lianyuan City and Nanyue District, Hunan, China. So far, no information on the females of this species is available. After molecular systematics and morphological characters of recently collected specimens from Xinshao County, Hunan, several specimens (3 males and 1 female) were identified as this species. Therefore, we provided supplementary descriptions of the female characteristics of this species in this study. Meanwhile, we extended the description of this species.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new species of Thamnophis (Serpentes, Colubridae) from Jalisco, Mexico, with a discussion on the phylogeny, taxonomy, and distribution of snakes related to Thamnophis scalaris
Garter snakes in the genus Thamnophis from Mexico have a long and convoluted taxonomic history. From 2015 to 2022, we conducted a comprehensive sampling of Mexican Thamnophis species, aiming to link molecular phylogenies with the recognized species related to T. scalaris in the highlands of Mexico. Here, we present an analysis of mitochondrial DNA to resolve the status of two enigmatic highland Thamnophis populations. Our research resulted in the identification and morphological characterization of a previously undescribed Thamnophis species from the state of Jalisco in western Mexico. We also clarify the identity and relationships of several previously enigmatic populations of Thamnophis. This work presents new data for Thamnophis phylogenetics from the Mexican highlands and offers a framework for future conservation efforts.
["Adelophis"]

First record of Amolops truongi Pham, Pham, Ngo, Sung, Ziegler & Le, 2023 (Anura, Ranidae) from China
We report the first record of Amolops truongi Pham, Pham, Ngo, Sung, Ziegler & Le, 2023 from China, based on four specimens collected in Yunnan Huanglianshan National Nature Reserve. This species was previously known only from the type locality in north-western Vietnam. Morphologically, the specimens from China correspond to the original description of A. truongi with a few variations and, phylogenetically, they are clustered with the type specimens of A. truongi from Vietnam with strong support. In this study, we also provide an updated diagnosis of this species combining the original description and new data.

Diet, sexual dimorphism, and fertility aspects of Melanophryniscus fulvoguttatus (Mertens, 1937) from Central-East Brazil
Melanophryniscus fulvoguttatus is a small toad that inhabits the Cerrado, Atlantic Forest, and humid Chaco of South America. Due to its aposematic coloration and behavior, it is a species that may present chemical defenses such as alkaloids and a restricted diet similar to other species of the genus. Although it was described in the early 20th century, there is still little information on its natural history and ecology. Here, we described the diet, tested the sexual dimorphism, and calculated the fertility index of M. fulvoguttatus based on a sample of eight males and 21 females from a population within the Cerrado. Sexual dimorphism was assessed using 15 morphometric measures; diet was calculated as an index of relative importance by prey item and tested for sex differences; fertility was tested for relations between body size and the number of eggs; and we also estimated the reproductive investment. Our results demonstrate that this population’s diet consisted mostly of ant species, with Pheidole radoszkowskii being the most important, followed by Crematogaster sp. and Cyphomyrmex transversus. Regarding sexual dimorphism, we observed that females were significantly larger than males, with a positive relationship between female size and the number of eggs. We did not find significant differences in the diets of males and females. Although the diet and reproductive aspects of M. fulvoguttatus are similar to those of its congeneric species, further studies are needed in order to address the relationship between the species diet and its chemical defenses.
["Bufonidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations"]

First evidence of scavenging behaviour in Ichthyosaura alpestris (Laurenti, 1768)
The alpine newt is an opportunistic predator whose diet consists predominantly of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates with Crustacea, Plecoptera, Collembola, Diptera, Isopoda and Gastropoda being the predominant prey groups. Consumption of amphibian eggs and larvae are another common food source. Here, we report the first documented case of adult Ichthyosaura alpestris feeding on a rodent carcass, thus adding to its menu a prey item that belongs to the Class Mammalia, while showcasing the previously unknown scavenging behaviour. This finding suggests that rodent carcasses can serve as an important resource for nutrients in remote, high-altitude populations of the alpine newt.
["alpine newt"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Redescription and a significant range extension of Rhacophorus napoensis Li, Liu, Yu & Sun, 2022 (Amphibia, Anura, Rhacophorinae) with the first record from Vietnam
The Napo Treefrog Rhacophorus napoensis was described based on five male specimens from Napo County, Baise City, Guangxi Autonomous Region, China. Herein, we report on new findings and a range extension of this species based on an examination of preserved specimens collected from Bac Giang and Nghe An provinces, Vietnam. Futhermore, molecular analyses of specimens Rhacophorus spp. previously identified as R. rhodopus that were reported in Bac Giang, Nghe An as well as Thanh Hoa, and Ha Tinh provinces based on mitochondrial DNA supported the morphological findings. The Vietnam specimens have a pairwise divergence of less than 2% from those of the type series of Rhacophorus napoensis (based on the 16s rRNA mtDNA gene). Based on the new information, we confirm the presence of R. napoensis in Vietnam and update the diagnostic characters of this species and distribution. We suggest the species should be considered as of Least Concern (LC) following the IUCN’s Red List categories. Further studies reassessing the populations of the Rhacophorus bipunctatus complex are required.

Range extension and expanded description of Micryletta hekouensis Liu, Hou, Mo & Rao, 2021 (Amphibia, Anura, Microhylidae), with comments on Micryletta of Northern Vietnam
The Paddy frog species Micryletta hekouensis was described based on only two specimens from Nanxi Village, Nanxi Town, Hekou County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. Herein, we report on new findings and a range extension of this species based on a re-examination of preserved specimens deposited in Duy Tan University (DTU) and Zoological Museum of Lomonosov Moscow State University (ZMMU) collected from Vietnam. All new specimens were previously identified as Micryletta cf. inornata or M. cf. steinegeri. Molecular analyses based on mitochondrial DNA supported the morphological findings. The newly identified specimens have a pairwise divergence of only 0.7% from those of the type series of M. hekouensis, based on the 16s rRNA mtDNA gene. Based on the new information, we confirm the presence of M. hekouensis in Vietnam and update the diagnostic characters of this species and its distribution. We suggest the species should be considered as Near Threatened (NT) following the IUCN’s Red List categories. Further studies reassessing the populations of the Micryletta inornata complex in the Indochinese Region (including Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand) are required.
["Cat Ba National Park"]

Extending the known vertical distribution for the highly adaptive Triturus macedonicus (Karaman, 1922)
Current knowledge of the vertical distribution of Triturus macedonicus places the species at altitudes up to 2140 m. Herein, we report its presence in the alpine lake Gistova at 2360 m on Mt. Grammos, Greece, thus extending the highest altitudinal point for the species, as well as for the Triturus genus. This record showcases the adaptive capacity of the Macedonian newt, which allows it to occupy markedly different environments. More populations may exist at similar or even higher altitudes and their discovery could positively impact conservation efforts.
["adaptability"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Hiding in the valley: a new national record of Ablepharus eremchenkoi, with rediscovery of Ablepharus alaicus in China: phylogeny, morphology and natural history notes
The genus Ablepharus Lichtenstein, 1823 contains the common snake-eyed skinks, distributed from southern Europe and northern Africa to eastern Asia. Ablepharus alaicus Elpatjevsky, 1901 inhabits Central Asia and, according to historical literature, was once recorded in north-western China. However, there are no voucher records of this species from China. Some populations of a subspecies of A. alaicus have been elevated to new species, for example, A. eremchenkoi (Panfilov, 1999). However, no detailed studies have been conducted. In August and September 2023, we captured sixteen and fourteen skink specimens from Wuqia County and Qapqal Xibe Autonomous County, respectively, in Xinjiang, northwest China. Morphological and phylogenetic comparisons showed that the skinks collected from these two locations belong to A. eremchenkoi and A. alaicus, respectively. In this study, we confirmed the first record of A. eremchenkoi in China, rediscovered A. alaicus, reported voucher records for these two skinks and reviewed the taxonomic history of Ablepharus in Xinjiang, northwest China.
["Ablepharine skink"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Kleptoparasitism in Micrurus mipartitus (Squamata, Elapidae) competing for the same Caecilia sp. (Gymnophiona, Caeciliidae) in western Colombia
Kleptoparasitism, or food theft, is seldom reported in wild populations of snakes. Here, we describe as case where two Red-tailed Coral Snakes, Micrurus mipartitus, were observed competing for the same caecilian prey, either Caecilia leucocephala or C. perdita. This took place at night in a rainforest habitat in Valle del Cauca Department, western Colombia. Upon our arrival, the battle had already started as the two coral snakes kept bite-holds on the caecilian. They continued biting the prey at different places on the anterior parts and tugging in opposite directions. The snakes also made rotations along the longitudinal axis as they maintained their bite-holds. Surprisingly, one snake also bit the body of the other snake once. After 17 minutes of observation, the losing coral snake released its bite-hold on the caecilian. The winner then moved away from the losing snake which did not follow. It is well-known that M. mipartitus and other coral snakes eat caecilians, but this is the first observation of kleptoparasitism in elapid snakes in the wild. It is considered likely that they rely on chemoreception when detecting caecilians, notably in this case as two coral snakes detected the same prey item. In general, kleptoparasitism may occur more frequently amongst snakes than indicated by the very few published cases considering that numerous cases from captivity are known.
["caecilian"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

The first record of the rarely observed rat snake, Elaphe urartica Jablonski et al., 2019 (Squamata, Colubridae) for Iraq
The Urartian rat snake, Elaphe urartica Jablonski, Kukushkin, Avcı, Bunyatova, Ilgaz, Tuniyev & Jandzik, 2019, is a recently described species within the genus Elaphe, found in eastern Anatolia, Caucasian region and the northern Middle East. It stands as one of the rarely observed snake species, with its distribution and other aspects of natural history largely unexplored. This is particularly true for the territories of Iraq and Iran. Therefore, we report on the presence of the species in Iraq, the first documented evidence of the species’ distribution within the country. In conjunction with this record, we provide initial data regarding the species’ habitat and ecology in the region. The distribution record presented here is further supplemented by a new species record from the border regions between Iraq and Iran, encouraging further herpetological exploration within the Zagros Mountains.
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

First description of the female of Cyrtodactylus dianxiensis Liu & Rao, 2021, with extended diagnosis of this species (Squamata, Gekkonidae)
Cyrtodactylus dianxiensis Liu & Rao, 2021 was originally described based on only two adult male specimens from Tongbiguan Nature Reserve, Dehong Autonomous Prefecture, western Yunnan, China. So far, no information on the females of this species is available. During comprehensive herpetofaunal investigations in 2022, one female specimen of C. dianxiensis was collected from Tongbiguan Nature Reserve. The female specimen agrees well with the original description of C. dianxiensis, and also shows some slight differences in coloration. This study reported the female specimen of this species for the first time, and provided a description and photos of the female specimen; meanwhile, we extended the diagnosis of this species.
["bent-toed gecko"]

New data on the distribution of the Vipera ammodytes (Linnaeus, 1758) mitochondrial lineages place their contact zone in western Bulgaria
Molecular studies have outlined several mitochondrial lineages of Vipera ammodytes, but the limits of their distribution ranges remain unclear due to limited sampling throughout the vast range of the species. One particularly understudied area is the Eastern Balkan Peninsula where at least three lineages occur, showing ranges that may be partly overlapping. We used two mitochondrial markers (cytb and ND2) to unveil mtDNA distribution patterns based on vipers from 31 localities across Bulgaria. Our results confirmed the presence of the north-eastern (NE) and the south-eastern (SE) mitochondrial clade in Bulgaria, the latter being represented by its southern (S) and eastern (E) subclades. Among the sampled localities, two were suspected to be potential contact zones between these mtDNA lineages based on old morphology-derived distributional records. The NE clade was absent from both potential contact zones. However, our data showed that in western Bulgaria, populations of this clade establish contact with populations of the E subclade in at least one area, and also come close to contact with populations of the S subclade. These results indicate the need for more detailed research in the potential areas of contact in western Bulgaria, integrating morphological data with extensive mitochondrial and nuclear DNA-sampling to better understand the phylogeographic patterns of intraspecific differentiation in V. ammodytes.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Three brown frog species in Denmark have different abilities to colonise new ponds
For 29 consecutive years, the populations of three species of brown frogs, Rana arvalis, R. dalmatina and R. temporaria, were monitored in an open area in South Zealand, Denmark, with no direct influence of agriculture. Population sizes were recorded by counting egg clumps and showed large variations from year to year. The total population of R. arvalis differed by a factor of 100 between the years with the lowest and the highest numbers. A total of 19 initially unoccupied suitable waterbodies could potentially be colonised by the frogs. Rana dalmatina colonised all of the ponds, mostly in the very first year of existence. Rana arvalis colonised 17 ponds after an average of 10.5 years. Rana temporaria colonised eight ponds after an average of 13.4 years. Colonisation by R. dalmatina was independent of changes in total population size, whereas colonisation by R. arvalis predominantly occurred in years with considerable population increases. The results are discussed in relation to the movement patterns and philopatry of juvenile frogs of the three species. Juvenile R. dalmatina disperse far from the breeding site, but most individuals return to their natal site. This allows the species to be an efficient coloniser of new waterbodies and, at the same time, to have stable occurrence at the original site. The two other species show a more erratic type of dispersal and especially R. temporaria often shifts breeding site from year to year.
["dispersal"]

First record of Bombina variegata (Linnaeus, 1758) at the southern part of Euboea Island, Greece
The herpetofauna of Greek islands is fairly well known. However, new records enhance our knowledge of the insular distribution of reptiles and amphibians. Here, we report a new addition to the herpetofauna of Euboea Island: a dense population of the yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) was found in Ochi Mountain, at the south part of the Island.

The validity of Rana bannanica Rao & Yang, 1997 (Anura, Ranidae)
One specimen of frog was collected from Mohan Town, Mengla County, Xishuangbanna Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, which is the type locality of Rana bannanica Rao & Yang, 1997, currently considered as a junior synonym of Hylarana milleti (Smith, 1921). This specimen well agrees with the original description of R. bannanica. In regard to morphology, R. bannanica and H. milleti are, indeed, very similar, but can still be distinguished from each other. Phylogenetic analysis, based on mitochondrial gene sequences, showed that this specimen and H. milleti are different species. Hence, we remove R. bannanica from the synonymy of H. milleti.

﻿Reproductive effort of Plestiodon copei (Squamata, Scincidae), a highland viviparous lizard from Central Mexico
Female reproductive effort is defined as the proportion of total energy or resources devoted to reproduction. In reptiles, there is frequently high inter- and intra-population variation related to several factors, such as food availability, climatic conditions, age and size, all of which, in turn, also influence survival and future reproduction. The present study is the first reproductive effort analysis of a population of the high-mountain scincid lizard Plestiodon copei in central Mexico, focusing on relative litter mass (RLM), investment per capita (INV) and productivity (PROD). We also compared the reproductive efficacy of P. copei to those of other Mexican congeners. We collected 24 gravid females of P. copei over a 4-year period and recorded a total of 90 neonates born in captivity. We found significant variation in neonatal mass amongst individual females and across years. We recorded an average litter size of 3.75 and an average litter mass of 1.25 g, which were positively correlated with both the size and total mass of the reproductive females. The RLM, INV and PROD values (0.301, 0.428 g and 1.236 g × year-1, respectively) for P. copei were greater than those for other Mexican species in the P. brevirostris group (0.290, 0.412 g and 1.135 g × year-1), revealing that females of P. copei from Tenango invest a comparatively high amount of their resources in reproduction.
["life history"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Migration strategy of the Great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) in an artificial pond
In animals, migration is an evolutionary adaptation to manage seasonally varying habitats. Often driven by climatic changes or resource availability, amphibians then migrate from their hibernation sites to their breeding grounds. This research focused on the migratory habits of the Great crested newt (Triturus cristatus). The study explored factors like gender, body size, and environmental determinants, noting that immigration and emigration events proved distinct during the year. Results unveiled that males typically reached ponds first, with temperature being pivotal: males preferred up to 5 °C, females around 10 °C, while juveniles moved as temperatures increase. Wind velocity affected larger newts, around 120 mm, prompting them to migrate with stronger winds. Notably, heavy rainfall favored migration of newts of roughly 60 mm size. Humidity displayed gender-based trends: males associated positively with average levels, females showed aversion above 50%, and juveniles leaned towards drier conditions. Emigration patterns mirrored these findings, emphasizing roles of temperature, wind, and humidity. The effect of moonlight is not statistically significant. These findings provide valuable insights into the environmental factors influencing the migration of T. cristatus, which may guide future conservation efforts.
["emigration"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿Redescription of Rhacophorus tuberculatus (Anderson, 1871) and the validity of Rhacophorus verrucopus Huang, 1983
Rhacophorus tuberculatus and Rhacophorus verrucopus are two morphologically similar species described in 1871 and 1983 respectively. Their taxonomic distinctiveness has been questioned in the past. In the current study, we encountered frogs that we confer to R. tuberculatus based on morphological similarity to a syntype of this species. We redescribe the species based on a re-examination of a syntype, which is designated as a lectotype here, and additional specimens from Garo hills of Meghalaya. We also present molecular data, natural history notes, and report a range extension of this species. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA fragment revealed minimal genetic divergences (0.20–1.74% uncorrected p-distance) between specimens identified as either R. tuberculatus or R. verrucopus from different locations. On the basis of molecular data and morphological characteristics, we conclude that R. verrucopus is a junior synonym of R. tuberculatus.
["Darwinian shortfall"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Geographic distribution of the rare and endangered Telmatobufo venustus (Philippi, 1899) (Anura, Calyptocephalellidae), with the description of a new locality and comments on the type locality
Telmatobufo venustus was one of the rarest endemic amphibians of Chile until 2020. Prior to that year, this species had been known in four localities, three of them with uncertain location, including the type locality. However, three new precise localities have been reported successively since 2020, all based on a few individuals. In this study, we review the geographic information on the species and, based on literature and other documents, tentatively locate the three localities with uncertain location published before 2020. Furthermore, we describe a new locality near the uncertain southern end of its distribution. Although the number of localities has considerably increased since 2020, the species still has a highly fragmented known distribution, its type locality and southern limit cannot be located with certainty, and it is found in only two state-protected areas. Due to these reasons and because threats to the habitat have been identified in some localities, we suggest keeping the species as Endangered.
["altitudinal range"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿Taxonomic status of Lycodon subcinctus sensu lato in China (Serpentes, Colubridae)
The Malayan Banded Wolf Snake Lycodon subcinctus Boie, 1827 once included three subspecies, namely L. s. subcinctus Boie, 1827, L. s. sealei Leviton, 1955, and L. s. maculatus (Cope, 1985). Thereafter, L. s. sealei has been elevated to species level, and the taxonomic status of L. s. maculatus has not been resolved. We sequenced the mitochondrial cytochrome b (cytb) gene fragments of eight specimens of L. s. maculatus from China, including three from the adjacent areas of its type locality. Combining the sequences obtained from GenBank, we reconstructed a molecular phylogeny and reevaluated the taxonomic status of L. s. maculatus. Phylogenetic analysis revealed three highly divergent lineages within L. subcinctus sensu lato which correspond to L. subcinctus sensu stricto, L. sealei, and L. s. maculatus, respectively. Coupled with morphological comparison, we elevate L. s. maculatus to full species and redescribe it based on the type and freshly collected material.
["cytochrome b"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Neotype designation and redescription of Gloydius shedaoensis qianshanensis Li, 1999 (Squamata, Serpentes, Viperidae)
The taxonomic status of Gloydius shedaoensis qianshanensis Li, 1999 has long been debated due to its narrow distribution range, low population, loss of type specimens, and lack of detailed descriptions. Neotypes were designated based on newly collected specimens in the Qianshan Mountain area, detailed comparisons between G. s. shedaoensis, and G. s. qianshanensis were recorded, while we redescribed G. s. qianshanensis. PCA results based on the external morphology of the two subspecies of G. shedaoensis demonstrate the inter-population distinction of G. s. shedaoensis and G. s. qianshanensis, including head length, and dorsoventral-postorbital stripe width. Additionally, the ecological data of G. s. qianshanensis were recorded as supplements while providing further conservation strategies.
["Gloydius shedaoensis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Notes on the pattern of head size in the Philippine Spotted Flying Lizard, Draco spilopterus (Weigmann, 1834), within Luzon Biogeographic Region, Philippines
Sexual head dimorphism is a condition where head morphology of male and female of the same species differ, which provides an additional way to recognise sex for species identification. Fifty four adult Philippine Spotted Flying Lizards, Draco spilopterus, were examined from four populations in the Luzon Island, Philippines to assess whether head morphometry can drive sexual dimorphism. We identified the sex and measured five morphometric measurements of the head (jaw length, jaw width, head height, head length, head width) and snout-vent length. A univariate analysis of the five morphometric measurements showed clear sexual dimorphism. Considering all individuals, female heads are significantly larger than those of males (all p-values < 0.05). We also revealed major differences in head size amongst the four populations due to their geographical location and habitat differences.
["head size"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

﻿Exploring the dietary niche of Atlantolacerta andreanskyi (Lacertidae) using DNA metabarcoding
Determining the dietary niche is an essential part of any conservation strategy, and for modeling the community responses to climate change. DNA metabarcoding methods are revolutionizing such approaches, allowing higher taxonomic resolution than typically possible using microscopy. However, few studies have compared directly the approaches to evaluate the differences in methodology. Here we assess the dietary niches of two genetically diverse populations of Atlantolacerta andreanskyi, a lizard endemic to the Atlas Mountains, Morocco, using DNA metabarcoding of faecal samples, and for one of these we compared the results to two previously published assessments of diets obtained using microscopy of pellets and stomach contents respectively. While results at the Order level were similar, the higher taxonomic resolution obtained in this study provided new insights into the dietary niche of this species. Comparisons between the two populations further highlighted how ecologically distinct these are.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Advertisement calls of Leptobrachella suiyangensis and Leptobrachella bashaensis (Anura, Megophryidae)
In this study, the advertisement calls of Leptobrachella suiyangensis and Leptobrachella bashaensis are described. The advertisement call of L. suiyangensis includes simple and complex calls, with four different call types and a dominant frequency ranging 4.13–4.82 kHz. The advertisement call of L. bashaensis consists of a single note, with a dominant frequency 6.03–6.46 kHz. We compare the advertisement calls with other species in the genus Leptobrachella, and discuss the definitions of primary advertisement calls and secondary advertisement calls. Our results provide basic data for further acoustic, taxonomic and ecological studies in the genus Leptobrachella.
["acoustic differences"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿Expanded description of Hemiphyllodactylus hongkongensis (Squamata, Gekkonidae)
The expanded description of Hemiphyllodactylus hongkongensis Sung, Lee, NG, Zhang & Yang, 2018 is provided based on four newly collected specimens from eastern Guangdong Province, China, which is beyond its previously known range. The new collection also fills the distribution gap of the genus Hemiphyllodactylus in the region. Due to the absence of sufficient data, we recommend Hemiphyllodactylus hongkongensis be listed as Data Deficient (DD) in the IUCN conservation status categorization.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

﻿A new cryptic species of Tylototriton (Amphibia, Caudata, Salamandridae) from mysterious mountain lakes in Manipur, north-eastern India
An integrative taxonomic analysis combining molecular and morphological lines of evidence revealed a new cryptic species in the Tylototriton verrucosus species group from Manipur, north-eastern India. The new species was previously confused with T. himalayanus and T. verrucosus. Tylototriton zaimeng sp. nov. can be distinguished from its congeners by medium body size, head massive and wide with rounded snout and very wide and protruding supratemporal bony ridges and a well-developed sagittal ridge, short limbs not overlapping when adpressed along body, wide and not segmented vertebral ridge distinct, 13–14 pairs of rib nodules, brown colouration with dull orange to yellowish-brown markings on head, vertebral ridge, rib nodules, palms, soles, vent and ventral tail ridge and by vomerine teeth organised in two distinctly curved bell-shaped series. Phylogenetic analysis of the ND2 and 16S rRNA mtDNA genes confirmed the placement of the new species to the Clade I of the subgenus Tylototriton and suggested it is a sister species of T. panwaensis and T. houi (p-distance 3.0% in ND2 gene). The range of the new species is restricted to the Khongtheng Mountain Range and is isolated from the range of T. panwaensis and T. houi in northern Myanmar and southern China, respectively. We suggest the new species to be considered as Vulnerable (VU) in the IUCN Red List.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Daily activities of water monitors (Varanus salvator macromaculatus Deraniyagala, 1944) in urban wetland, Bangkok, Thailand
From July to October 2015, a study was conducted on the water monitors (Varanus salvator macromaculatus) at Dusit Zoo in Bangkok, Thailand. A total of 90 monitors were captured, measured for SVL, sexed, and marked on the right axilla. The captured monitors included 70 females and 20 males, resulting in a sex ratio of 3.5:1. Body size did not differ significantly between genders. The monitors exhibited bimodal diurnal activity, with a focus on fish hunting in the morning (06:00–08:00 h) and scavenging for fish leftovers in the afternoon (15:00–17:00 h). After the monitor lizards hunted for prey in the morning, they spent 5–7 hours basking and floating in the lake during the afternoon. Sexual behaviors were also occasionally observed. The monitors displayed frequent predatory behavior towards natural prey, especially fish, in the morning, as opposed to opportunistically scavenging on tourist food and fish leftovers observed throughout the day.
["diet"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿Resurrection and distribution extension of Odorrana heatwolei (Stuart & Bain, 2005) (Anura, Ranidae)
We collected nine specimens of Odorrana Fei, Ye & Huang, 1990 from Xishuangbanna Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, which is close to the type locality of O. heatwolei (Stuart & Bain, 2005) in Phongsaly Province, northern Laos (approximately 60 km). These specimens agree with the diagnosis of O. heatwolei that body size is large in females and relatively small in males, tympanum large in males and relatively small in females, first finger longer than the second, and glandular dorsolateral fold and external vocal sacs present in males, moreover, these specimens have obvious dense tiny black dots scattered on the dorsum, which is consistent with the characters of O. heatwolei and different from O. tiannanensis (Yang & Li, 1980). Phylogenetically, the sequences of these specimens clustered with the sequence of the holotype of O. heatwolei and formed a distinct clade together, which is sister to O. tiannanensis. We resurrect O. heatwolei and extend the distribution of this species to China.

﻿The validity of Pelophylax chosenicus (Okada, 1931) and P. hubeiensis (Fei & Ye, 1982) (Amphibia, Ranidae)
Pelophylax plancyi (Lataste, 1880), Pelophylax chosenicus (Okada, 1931) and Pelophylax hubeiensis (Fei & Ye, 1982) were described chronologically from East Asia. The three species have similar morphological and molecular characteristics, but the taxonomic relationships amongst them have long been ambiguous. To deal with this taxonomic issue, we examined newly-obtained topotypic specimens of P. plancyi, P. chosenicus and P. hubeiensis for morphological comparison. Furthermore, we investigated the phylogeny of pond frogs in Eurasia by Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood analyses of a fragment consisting of mitochondrial DNA gene 16s and provided a molecular phylogeny of the genus Pelophylax. There were no morphological and molecular differences between P. plancyi and P. chosenicus, but both morphological and molecular differences between P. hubeiensis and P. plancyi. Hence, we conclude that P. chosenicus is a junior synonym of P. plancyi and P. hubeiensis is a separate species from P. plancyi.
["amphibians"]

﻿New localities and lineages of the Atlas dwarf lizard Atlantolacerta andreanskyi identified using mitochondrial DNA markers
Atlantolacerta andreanskyi (Werner, 1929) is an endemic lizard from the High Atlas Mountains region of Morocco. A previous molecular assessment of this species using mitochondrial and nuclear DNA markers uncovered extensive genetic diversity with seven lineages indicative of a species complex. A morphological assessment of six of these lineages did not establish simple diagnostic features, and proposed these should be considered as a cryptic species, while highlighting the need for greater sampling across the range. In this study, we sampled 8 individuals from 5 previously unsampled localities and carried out genetic analyses to compare these populations to the known variation. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on mitochondrial DNA markers (12S rRNA and ND4) corroborates the previously described lineages and identified a new one. Interestingly, the two samples that account for this newly identified lineage have been collected from distinct localities – M’goun and Toumliline – that form a sister taxon to the population of Jbel Azourki.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

﻿Description of the advertisement call of Boulenophrys nanlingensis (Anura, Megophryidae), with a case of individual identification using its dorsum pattern
We describe the advertisement call of the Nanling horned frog, Boulenophrys nanlingensis for the first time, based on recordings obtained from four individuals. One of these individuals, which was identified using its dorsum pattern, was recorded twice after nine months. Distinct shifts in the temporal parameters and call rate were observed from calls of the re-captured individual, which was suspected to be related to temperature and social context. However, due to the limited sample size, further research is needed to confirm these findings. We highlight the potential of mark-recapture method using dorsum pattern for studying and monitoring the Nanling horned frog and other megophyinid frogs.
["bioacoustics"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿A novel species of piping frog Eleutherodactylus (Anura, Eleutherodactylidae) from southern Mexico
We describe a new species of Eleutherodactylus (subgenus Syrrhophus) from Guerrero, Mexico, based on morphological and molecular data, as well as advertisement call analysis. Eleutherodactylus franzi sp. nov. has unique features including widely expanded fingertips, indistinct, but visible lumbo-inguinal glands, an immaculate white venter and dark reticulations on a cream dorsal background colouration. The new species belongs to the Eleutherodactylus nitidus species group. Eleutherodactylus franzi sp. nov. is micro-endemic, restricted to a small range in karstic hillsides on the southern extreme of the Mexican Transverse Ranges. We discuss conservation needs of this species, which we provisionally classify as Critically Endangered.

﻿Microhabitat sharing for basking between squamate species in Poland
Aggregations (e.g. group basking) by snakes are usually limited to specific life cycle phases (e.g. mating) or are a consequence of drastic environmental changes (e.g. habitat destruction), high prey densities or highly limited resources within an environment (e.g. basking sites, wintering dens). Here, we report intra- and interspecific observations of four reptile species (primarily Natrix natrix and Vipera berus) sharing basking sites at the confluence of the rivers Dunajec and Poprad near the town of Stary Sącz in southern Poland. From a total of 84 records in the field between 2020–2022, there were 11 interactions from 24 July 2020 to 1 May 2022. Previous studies have indicated direct competition or interference in many species, which we did not observe. There is a noticeable lack of such observations of microhabitat sharing for basking between squamate species in scientific literature. Hence, the accumulation of such observations has the potential to reveal new insights into the behaviour and ecology of N. natrix and V. berus.
["adder"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿The advertisement calls of Pristimantis galdi Jiménez de la Espada, 1870 and Pristimantis katoptroides (Flores, 1988) (Anura, Strabomantidae)
In this study we describe for the first time the calls of Pristimantis galdi and Pristimantis katoptroides. Recordings were obtained in Sangay National Park, Ecuador. We highlight the importance of recording P. galdi since its call has been recorded after 153 years of having been described as a species. The call of P. galdi consists of 7 to 9 short notes, the sounds of which are similar to a hammer hitting a nail, with a mean dominant frequency of 2.39 kHz. In turn, the call of P. katoptroides consists of a single note, the sound of which is similar to a metallic “tic”, with a mean dominant frequency of 1.74 kHz. We compared the advertisement calls of P. galdi, P. katoptroides and P. roni as these species share similar morphological characteristics and are grouped in the spiny green frog’s ecotype. Despite these morphological similarities, their advertisement calls are different. Obtaining calls of Pristimantis species in Ecuador might prove difficult with short-term studies due to the great sampling efforts that may be needed to get these recordings. Therefore, implementing active and passive monitoring could help improve our knowledge of acoustic signals in Ecuador’s rainfrogs.
["acoustic communication"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿First record of Hoplobatrachus litoralis Hasan, Kuramoto, Islam, Alam, Khan & Sumida, 2012 (Anura, Dicroglossidae) from China
We report the first record of Hoplobatrachus litoralis Hasan, Kuramoto, Islam, Alam, Khan & Sumida, 2012 from China based on seven specimens from Baoshan City, western Yunnan. Morphologically, the specimens from China mostly agree with the original description of H. litoralis and phylogenetically show a small genetic distance (1.7%) in the 16S rRNA gene with the specimens (including one paratype) of H. litoralis from its type locality in Bangladesh. Our work increased the species number of the genus Hoplobatrachus Peters, 1863 in China to two. This record is the easternmost distribution of this species at present. Furthermore, we found that the species H. salween Thongproh, Chunskul, Sringurngam, Waiprom, Makchai, Cota, Duengkae, Duangjai, Hasan, Chuaynkern & Chuaynkern, 2022 recently described from north-western Thailand is morphologically and genetically very similar to H. litoralis and, therefore, we discuss the validity of H. salween as a separate species.

A new species of saxicolous Lepidophyma (Squamata, Xantusiidae) from Tamaulipas, Mexico
We describe a new saxicolous species of Lepidophyma from the Sierra Madre Oriental, in the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico and provide morphological and molecular data to support the novelty of this species. The new species is most closely related to members of the L. sylvaticum group; however; it is a flattened form specialised for a saxicolous lifestyle and it can be distinguished from all other members by a combination of meristic characters. Genetic analysis suggests that several populations of L. sylvaticum might represent additional novel taxa, while the validity of L. micropholis is questioned. We discuss conservation priorities of the new species.

﻿Observation records of the Bangon Monitor Lizard, Varanus bangonorum (Squamata, Varanidae), with emphasis on behaviour and local threats, from the Municipality of Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro, Philippines
Varanus bangonorum, the Bangon Monitor Lizard, is one of eleven Varanidae species endemic to the Philippines; its occurrence is restricted to dwindling habitats on the islands of Mindoro and Semirara. This lizard is still poorly known and is presently classified as “Least Concern” under the IUCN Red List in 2022. Observations recorded during eleven years (2011 to 2022) originate from the north-central Municipality of Abra de Ilog in Occidental Mindoro where this species was never before documented. We emphasise the primary factors that pose threats to the monitor lizard population, including insights gained from the knowledge of local community members. We present information about the lizards’ diet, for example, they can consume invasive toxic cane toads without harm. The result of our collective long-term observation records may serve as a baseline for further studies and contribute to evaluating the conservation status of this species.
["Bayawak"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

﻿The incidence of the anomaly P syndrome in water frogs (Anura, Ranidae, Pelophylax) from the Middle Volga River (Russia)
The anomaly P is a widespread morphological anomaly, which occurs in some groups of amphibians, caused by the trematode parasite Strigea robusta (Digenea: Strigeidae). This anomaly has been previously recorded in water frogs of the genus Pelophylax and toads of the genera Bufo and Bufotes. The anomaly P includes symmetrical polydactyly cases as a mild attenuated form of the complex syndrome, which in severe cases includes strong deformations of hindlimbs and forelimbs. Strigea robusta has a complex 3-host life cycle using planorbid mollusks as the first intermediate hosts, amphibian larvae as the second intermediate hosts, and anatid birds as the definitive hosts. Herein, we described new records of the anomaly P syndrome in water frogs of the genus Pelophylax from the northeastern parts of their ranges. Symmetrical polydactyly (as a mild form of the anomaly P syndrome) was found in 30 individuals of three species of water frogs from seven localities: in 25 individuals of P. lessonae from four waterbodies, in four individuals of P. ridibundus from three waterbodies, and one individual of P. esculentus. In Gusevo pond, three individuals of P. lessonae with severe cases of the syndrome were found. This is the first record of the anomaly P in reliably identified hybridogenetic edible frogs (P. esculentus) that have been identified in nature. Additionally, we provided new data about the occurrence of the anomaly P and the prevalence of the trematode S. robusta in mollusks taken from two water bodies where anomalous water frogs were found.
["amphibian morphological anomalies"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Evolution and Genetic Dynamics"]

﻿Melanism in the grass snake Natrix natrix (Linnaeus, 1758) from the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, Romania
Animal colouration has a significant ecological role in defence, reproduction, and thermoregulation. In the case of melanism, it is a complex topic. Besides potential disadvantages such as higher risk of predation, melanistic ectotherms may have certain physiological advantages such as more efficient thermoregulation in colder climates and thus, reduced basking time. The common grass snake (Natrix natrix) is a widespread species throughout Europe and Asia. It exhibits a wide range of colour polymorphisms, from olive to dark grey, even albinistic and melanistic. Between 2016 and 2021, we conducted fieldwork in the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve (DDBR) with the aim to document the geographic range of melanistic grass snakes. We categorised the melanistic expressions of N. natrix individuals as melanotic, completely melanistic, and partially melanistic. Melanistic snakes were encountered in all six localities visited, suggesting that the occurrence of melanistic grass snakes in the DDBR is geographically widespread. We observed both juveniles (n=2) and adults (n=11) with melanism, suggesting that individuals are born melanistic. However, the proportion of melanistic individuals in the general population of N. natrix from the DDBR is unknown. Only at Histria locality we studied the proportion of melanism in the grass snake population and 6.3% of the snakes caught were melanistic. Body size comparisons are not statistically significant because of the low sample size. The N. natrix melanistic morph’s geographical distribution in the DDBR is most likely due to an interaction of climate and habitats, which offer a thermal advantage in the face of predation pressure.
["colour morphs"]
["Animal and Plant Science Education", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿First record of Anatololacerta pelasgiana (Mertens, 1959) in mainland Greece: another new species in Athens
Urban habitats receive an increasing number of species due to anthropogenic activities, mainly transportations. Here, we report a new addition to the herpetofauna of Athens (Greece): a small population of the Pelasgian wall lizard (Anatololacerta pelasgiana) was found in a suburb of the Athenian metropolitan area. The species normally occurs in southwestern Anatolia and southeastern Aegean islands and this is the first record in the Greek mainland. Allochthonous species that successfully colonize cities raise new challenges to urban ecology.
["introduction"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

﻿Amolops putaoensis Gan, Qin, Lwin, Li, Quan, Liu & Yu, 2020, a newly recorded torrent frog for China
Amolops putaoensis is a recently described torrent frog species from A. monticola group that is known only from its type locality, northern Myanmar. We compared morphology and mitochondrial DNA sequence data from ten recently collected adult male specimens from the upper Dulong River System in Gongshan County, Yunnan Province, China, to the original description of A. putaoensis. Both datasets strongly supported referring the Chinese specimens to A. putaoensis, extending the known range of this species by approximately 133.7 km distance into China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses recovered A. putaoensis to be closely related to A. aniqiaoensis, A. kohimaensis, A. monticola, and A. adicola. We use the newly collected Chinese specimens to expand the morphological description of the species.
["Dulong River System"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Multimale breeding aggregations by “many-friends” snakes: courtship behaviours by Malagasy Pseudoxyrhophiine snakes, Dromicodryas bernieri and D. quadrilineatus, and their sexual size dimorphism
When several male snakes dispute over one female in the breeding season, two major male-male rivalries are known to occur: male-male combat and multimale breeding aggregation. The roles of male body size and the degree of sexual size dimorphism are different between these rivalries. We report field observations of mating behaviour including a multimale breeding aggregation of pseudoxyrhophiins, Dromicodryas bernieri and D. quadrilineatus, in northwestern Madagascar, which have a local name, “Maro longo”, meaning “many friends”. To examine the relationships between sexual size dimorphism and mating strategies of males, we also analysed the body size of the two species of Dromicodryas and two other pseudoxyrhophiins, Leioheterodon madagascariensis and L. modestus, which are known to exhibit the male-male combat. Our data obtained during a long-term field study showed that D. bernieri and D. quadrilineatus have female-biased sexual size dimorphism, whereas L. madagascariensis and L. modestus have male-biased sexual size dimorphism. This result conforms to the general tendency of the relationship between body size and male-male rivalry in snakes.
["Lamprophiidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Filling a gap in the distribution of the Berthold’s Bush Anole, Polychrus gutturosus (Squamata, Polychrotidae), in Honduras
The family Polychrotidae Fitzinger, 1843 is represented in Honduras by a single species, Polychrus gutturosus Berthold, 1845. This canopy dweller is distributed in the lowland moist forests and riparian forest within pine savannah of the northern and eastern regions of Honduras. Only 13 records and nine localities support the presence of the species in the country; therefore, the distribution and natural history of the species in Honduras is essentially unknown. Herein, we provide a new locality and natural history observations of a specimen captured in the core zone of the Reserva del Hombre y La Biosfera del Río Plátano. This record represents the north-western most occurrence of Polychrus gutturosus in a region known as the Mosquitia and fills an important distributional gap for this poorly known species.
["canopy"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Erythrism in the Eastern Grass Snake, Natrix natrix (Linnaeus, 1758)
We describe the unusual case of erythrism in the Eastern Grass Snake, Natrix natrix. This colour morph is very rare and has not been reported in the literature before. Despite having observed thousands of N. natrix in the field, we personally detected this morph in only three individuals originating from Slovakia, Romania, and mainland Greece, while photos of a fourth individual from a Greek island were provided to us. In addition, a recent study with a large data set from citizen scientists was unable to produce a single reddish Eastern Grass Snake. Such colouration is likewise uncommon in the western members of Grass Snakes (N. helvetica, N. astreptophora), with two examples provided herein. Because the potential biological importance of erythristic colouration is unclear, we encourage other field herpetologists and naturalists to publish their observations of reddish Grass Snakes in the printed literature.
["colour morph"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

﻿Eat or be eaten? An observation of Podarcis erhardii consuming Scolopendra cingulata from Andros Island, Cyclades, Greece
Podarcis wall lizards mainly feed on coleopterans, orthopterans, arachnids, and other small invertebrates. However, Aegean wall lizards, Podarcis erhardii, are widely distributed across Aegean islands and are increasingly observed eating non-traditional food items ranging from plant material to conspecific eggs and body parts. Here, we report the first documented case of P. erhardii consuming a large centipede, Scolopendra cingulata. The predator-prey relationship between these species has appeared to go both ways and may intensify on islands.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

﻿First record of Theloderma khoii Ninh, Nguyen, Nguyen, Hoang, Siliyavong, Nguyen, Le, Le & Ziegler, 2022 from China, with confirmation of Rhacophorus orlovi Ziegler & Köhler, 2001 in China (Anura, Rhacophoridae)
We report the first country record of Theloderma khoii Ninh, Nguyen, Nguyen, Hoang, Siliyavong, Nguyen, Le, Le & Ziegler, 2022 from China based on a specimen collected from Wenshan Prefecture, southeastern Yunnan, China. Morphologically, the specimen from Wenshan Prefecture agrees well with the type specimens of T. khoii from Vietnam except for having a smaller body size, and phylogenetically clustered with the type specimens of T. khoii from Vietnam. In addition, we confirm the distribution of Rhacophorus orlovi Ziegler & Köhler, 2001 in China based on three specimens collected from Honghe Prefecture, southern Yunnan, China. Morphologically, the specimens from Honghe Prefecture agree well with the type specimens of R. orlovi from Vietnam except for having a slightly larger body size in adult females, and phylogenetically clustered with the specimens of R. orlovi from Vietnam (including the type locality of R. orlovi).
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

﻿A new species of the genus Leptobrachella (Anura, Megophryidae) from northwestern Guangdong Province, China
The genus Leptobrachella is a species-rich genus of megophrid frog. Rapid discovery of many new species within this genus emphasizes the importance of regional research. In this study, we describe a new species of Leptobrachella, Leptobrachella verrucosa sp. nov., from northwestern Guangdong Province, China, based on a combination of molecular and morphological data. A key including congeners from the same province, namely L. laui, L. liui, L. mangshanensis, L. shimentaina, and L. yunkaiensis, is provided.
["Leptobrachella verrucosa sp. nov."]

﻿Description of the antipredatory head-wobble behaviour in Chilean rear-fanged snakes Tachymenis peruviana Wiegmann, 1835 and Tachymenis chilensis coronellina Werner, 1898 (Serpentes, Dipsadidae)
In this work, we describe the first records of head-wobble behaviour for Tachymenis peruviana and T. chilensis coronellina. We analyse this behaviour (occurrence, frequency) and accompanying displays in both species. Of particular note is that T. ch. coronellina exhibited more frequent head-wobbling than T. peruviana and, in both records, wind activity was observed during this antipredatory behaviour.
["antipredatory behaviour"]

The distribution of the critically endangered salamander Paradactylodon (Afghanodon) mustersi (Smith, 1940) in Afghanistan
The Afghanistan Mountain Salamander, Paradactylodon (Afghanodon) mustersi (Smith, 1940), is an evolutionary old species, listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN Red List. The species is endemic to the Hindu Kush mountain range with records from only a few localities from four central-eastern Afghan provinces (Kabul, Ghazni, Parwan, and Wardak). Due to the long-term complicated political situation in the country which makes zoological research almost impossible, the current distribution and the presence of P. mustersi at previously known localities has remained unassessed for 40 years. We carried out recent, sporadic surveys between 2017 and 2021 to detect P. mustersi in three tributaries of the Paghman stream on the southern slopes of the Hindu Kush Mountains and the two nearby provinces (Panjsheer and Parwan), where the presence of the species was expected. We confirmed the occurrence of P. mustersi at all survey sites, and present the first record of the species for Panjsheer Province. We also confirmed that the species is currently endangered by human-mediated factors like habitat disturbance (increased visitors attendance, water pollution, construction activities), especially in the Paghman area.
["Batrachuperus"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "South Asian Studies and Conflicts"]

﻿Chromatic and morphological anomalies in gymnophionans from India
Caecilians (Gymnophiona) are commonly known as limbless amphibians and are the least understood vertebrate order. In this paper, we documented skin color, eye, jaw, snout, tentacular aperture and cloacal anomalies in 12 individuals of four species belonging to the three caecilian genera Ichthyophis, Uraeotyphlus and Gegeneophis collected from hotspots of caecilian diversity in India, the Western Ghats and Northeast India. As we found the majority of these individuals in coffee and tea plantations, we discuss the possibility that anomalies are the result of exposure to agrochemicals that are frequently used in plantations.
["agrochemicals"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Developmental anomalies in the smooth snake, Coronella austriaca Laurenti, 1768 (Squamata, Colubridae) from Poland
We present four cases of rare developmental anomalies in the smooth snake Coronella austriaca Laurenti, 1768 from western Poland. These include brachycephaly, lordosis, a supernumerary row of ‘ventral’ scales, and the third reported case of dicephalism in snakes from Poland. All the cases are supported by X-ray radiography. One of the possible explanations for these anomalies is a low genetic variation in populations from western Poland.
["brachycephaly"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Morphological variations and asymmetry"]

﻿First record of Lepidodactylus lugubris (Duméril & Bibron, 1836) (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Hainan Island, China
Lepidodactylus lugubris is known from tropical Asia, Oceania, and Latin America, but in China it was previously known only from Taiwan Island. In this paper, we report a new herpetofaunal record based on one specimen collected from Wanning, Hainan, China, which conforms to L. lugubris on both morphological and molecular data. Our finding brings the total species of the family Gekkonidae in Hainan to six.

﻿Gigantism in tadpoles and color anomalies in European green toad Bufotes viridis from Poland
Some new cases of anomalies in wild Bufotes viridis from Western Poland are presented together with a discussion of their potential causes and a comparison with similar cases from the literature. The anomalies in question are color aberrations (pre- and post-metamorphic) and developmental pathologies (pre–metamorphic). The color anomalies include an ochre patch in a juvenile, leucism and albinism in both tadpoles and juvenile individuals. Developmental pathologies described in this paper include gigantism, edema, curvature of tail, and asymmetric bodies.
["aberration"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "melanin and skin pigmentation", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿A new subspecies of the Asiatic softshell turtle Amyda ornata (Gray, 1861) from its northern distribution range
We describe a new subspecies of Amyda ornata (Gray, 1861) from the southeastern parts of Bangladesh (Chittagong hill tracts), adjacent regions of north-eastern India (Mizoram, Assam and Tripura) and Myanmar, based on morphological characteristics. The holotype comprises some skeletal elements held by the Natural History Museum of Vienna; the five paratypes consist of living specimens in the private collection of PP “Turtle Island” (a turtle conservation zoo in Graz, Austria). After the genetic identity had been determined in a previous investigation, the morphological description was carried out by examining living specimens and photo documents; and additionally, by evaluating the computed tomography of further living animals with exact location data. Amyda ornata jongli ssp. nov. differs from the other Amyda ornata subspecies mainly by its relatively compact and stout head in subadults and adults, its paler, greyish and less contrasting colouration missing distinct bright yellow pigments, ochre-coloured irises, and the existence of more distinct tubercles in the neck region and in the posterior section of the carapace than both other subspecies of Amyda ornata. The tubercles along the front of the carapace protrude clearly in subadult and adult specimens. This softshell turtle is heavily exploited within its limited distribution. Therefore, special comments on conservation aspects are given together with a final discussion on distribution and systematics.
["Amyda ornata jongli ssp. nov."]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

﻿First record of the Diadem Snake, Spalerosophis diadema (Squamata, Colubridae) for Lebanon
We report the first record of the Diadem Snake, Spalerosophis diadema cliffordii (Schlegel, 1837) for Lebanon, based on an adult male found in the semi-desert area of the Beqaa Valley. This record increases the number of species of reptiles for Lebanon to 52, with the family Colubridae now comprising 17. The record also highlights the Beqaa Valley as a promising, but currently insufficiently investigated area for further herpetological research due to its biogeographic connection to the large semi-desert and desert areas of Syria.
["Middle East"]

﻿A new species of bent-toed geckos of the genus Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1827 from western Arunachal Pradesh, India
A new species of bent-toed geckos of the genus Cyrtodactylus is described from western Arunachal Pradesh. The new species is a member of the Indo-Burma clade and is embedded within the “peguensis” group, a relationship deduced contingent on a partial fragment of mitochondrial NADH subunit 2 gene. Cyrtodactylus kamengensis sp. nov. is morphologically similar to C. himalayicus from which it differs in bearing a distinct ventrolateral fold and 6–8 basal lamellae on digit IV of pes. Genetically, the new species is sister to the Indian lineage of the “peguensis” group containing C. bhupathyi and C. gubernatoris. The Indian lineage of the “peguensis” group diverged from its Burmese relatives during the mid-Oligocene likely followed by the beginning of the Himalayan uplift, highlighting the role of the Himalayas in the diversification of biota.

﻿Great capricorn beetle-created corridors as refuges for lizards
Ecosystem engineering is among the most important factors shaping ecosystems; however, it remains largely unstudied. Here, we present observations on three lizard species, the common lizard Zootoca vivipara, the sand lizard Lacerta agilis, and the slow worm Anguis fragilis, which use habitats created by the great capricorn beetle, Cerambyx cerdo. These galleries are heavily used by the common lizards and young sand lizards. We discuss the possible advantages of such beetle-created habitats for reptiles: antipredator refuges, hibernation sites, thermoregulatory behaviour, and preying activities. Since previous studies have reported numerous invertebrate species as well as vertebrates (including bats and snakes) in these refugia, we find the great capricorn beetle-inhabited oaks as potentially important microhabitats for a variety of animals.
["Anguis fragilis"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿On the occurrence of Lygosoma siamense Siler, Heitz, Davis, Freitas, Aowphol, Termprayoon & Grismer, 2018 (Squamata, Scincidae) in China
The genus Lygosoma Hardwicke & Gray, 1827 is a group of semi-fossorial supple skink from Southeast Asia, the members of which are still understudied in Indochina. Lysosoma quadrupes (Linnaeus, 1766) was once recorded from China based on historical literature; until recent its Indochina specimens were revised and placed into a newly described species, i.e., L. siamense Siler, Heitz, Davis, Freitas, Aowphol, Termprayoon & Grismer, 2018. However, Lygosoma quadrupes had long been unknown from China but the historical record had not been confirmed. Here we report a vouchered record for L. siamense from China for the first time based on four specimens collected in Sanya, Hainan, China. Furthermore, the taxonomic history of Lygosoma from China is also reviewed.

﻿New records of Darevskia praticola at the northern limit of its distribution range in Romania
In the summer of 2021 we identified three new distribution localities of Darevskia praticola north of the Mureș River, and one locality south of the river. The habitats populated by D. praticola (broad-leaved forest with wet areas) and the altitude (175–245 m) of the new records are typical for this species. Nevertheless, D. praticola had not been recorded in 12 other localities with similar conditions from an area previously considered suitable for this species. Thus, D. praticola may be slowly expanding from a bridgehead north of the Mureș River, occupying new favorable habitats. Probably, D. praticola recently crossed the Mureș River, possibly on a bridge, or with the timber trucks which exploit the woods from both sides of the river.
["barrier"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

﻿First record of ranavirus (Ranavirus sp.) in Siberia, Russia
Ranaviruses are a group of double-strand DNA viruses that infect fish, amphibians and reptiles. These viruses are responsible for mass fish and amphibian mortality events worldwide, both in the wild and at fish and amphibian farms. The number of detected epizootics has grown significantly in recent years. In Eastern Europe and Northern Asia, including Russia, very few ranavirus monitoring studies have been conducted, in contrast with Western Europe and America. In the present work, we used a qPCR assay to survey for the first time the amphibian populations of West Siberia (Russia) for the presence of ranaviruses. In total, we studied 252 tissue samples from six amphibian species, collected across West Siberia from the south to the Arctic regions. We report a single infected sample: a common toad (Bufo bufo) captured near Tyumen city. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the detected virus strain belongs to the CMTV lineage. This is only the second observation of Ranavirus in Russia.
["amphibian pathogens"]
["Aquaculture disease management and microbiota", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Animal Virus Infections Studies"]

﻿Distribution extension of Leptobrachella eos (Ohler, Wollenberg, Grosjean, Hendrix, Vences, Ziegler & Dubois, 2011): first record from Thailand
We report the first country record of Leptobrachella eos (Ohler, Wollenberg, Grosjean, Hendrix, Vences, Ziegler & Dubois, 2011) from Thailand, based on one specimen collected from Chom poo Phuka nature trail, Bo Kluea District. Morphologically, the specimen displayed good agreement with the original descriptions provided for L. eos. Phylogenetically, the specimens clustered according to the sequences of type locality of L. eos. Notably, our discovery increases the number of Leptobrachella species known to occur in Thailand to nine.

﻿New record of the viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara (Jacquin, 1787) in Hungary
The lowland populations of the viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara in the Carpathian Basin occur in cold, marshy relict habitats. In one of the largest wetlands in Hungary, Kis-Balaton, in 2016 its presence was confirmed by catching an individual with a small mammal live-trap. This new record is significant, since the nearest known sites of occurrence are at great distance and it is situated between the lowland viviparous populations of the north-northeast and the oviparous populations of the south (in Croatia).
["Balaton-felvid\u00e9ki National Park"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

﻿Phylogenetic position of Odorrana macrotympana (Yang, 2008) (Anura, Ranidae) and extension of its geographical distribution
Based on a 16S rRNA gene fragment, a molecular phylogeny for the genus Odorrana Fei, Ye & Huang, 1990 was reconstructed, the validity of the poorly-known ranid species O. macrotympana (Yang, 2008) was confirmed and its phylogenetic position was evaluated. In addition, we report the first country record of O. macrotympana from Myanmar, based on our new records from Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary, Sagaing Division and present a supplementary description of this species. This report also constitutes the first record of O. macrotympana from outside of China.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿First country record of the fanged frog Limnonectes nguyenorum McLeod, Kurlbaum & Hoang, 2015 (Anura, Dicroglossidae) in China
We report the first record of Limnonectes nguyenorum McLeod, Kurlbaum & Hoang, 2015 outside of Vietnam, namely from China, based on five specimens collected from Daweishan Nature Reserve, southern Yunnan, China. Morphologically, the records from China agree with those of L. nguyenorum from Vietnam, and they also phylogenetically clustered with strong support. In addition, based on the new records from China and the previous descriptions of L. nguyenorum from Vietnam, we provide an extended diagnosis of this species.

﻿Molecular phylogeny of Lytorhynchus diadema (Reptilia, Colubridae) populations in Saudi Arabia
This study presents the molecular phylogenetic relationships among Lytorhynchus diadema (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854) populations in Saudi Arabia relative to populations from Africa and Asia. This phylogenetic analysis was based on mitochondrial 16S and 12S rRNA partial gene fragments using Neighbor-joining, Maximum Parsimony, and Bayesian methods. The results strongly support the monophyly of Lytorhynchus based on two concatenated genes and the 12S rRNA gene separately. Also, a significant separation is observed between the Arabian samples from Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Oman, and the African populations from Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco.
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The European green toad, Bufotes viridis, in Donaufeld (Vienna, Austria): status and size of the population
The European green toad, Bufotes viridis (Laurenti, 1768), is a rare and protected species in Vienna. In spring and summer 2020, we conducted a survey to assess size and status of its population in Donaufeld, an agricultural area designated for real estate development. Recaptures of photographically registered toads allowed to estimate the population size with 137 individuals (confidence interval: 104–181). Comparatively large body size indicates the presence of a well-established population. Reproductive success was high in the study year. A mismatch mating of a male B. viridis with a female Bufo bufo was observed. Mitigation measures are needed to support this population facing imminent habitat deterioration.

Two new species of snail-eating snakes of the genus Tropidodipsas (Serpentes, Dipsadidae) from southern Mexico, with notes on related species
We describe two new species of Tropidodipsas related to the T. fasciata species group as defined by Kofron (1987), and provide morphological and molecular data to support the novelty of both species. A partial molecular phylogeny of the Mexican species of snail-eating snakes (Serpentes, Dipsadidae) is presented, and we discuss evolutionary relationships as supported by our molecular results. We analyze specific relationships of the new species described herein with their closest relatives. We present a distribution map for all species of Tropidodipsas and include photographs of living individuals of each species. Finally, we discuss other taxonomic changes based on our molecular phylogeny as well as conservation priorities of the new species.

Taxonomic reassessment of the poorly known microhylid, Kalophrynus menglienicus Yang & Su, 1980
The taxonomic status of Kalophrynus menglienicus Yang & Su, 1980 was evaluated based on newly collected topotype specimens. Phylogenetic analysis showed that this species should be assigned to the genus Micryletta Dubois, 1987. In addition, morphological diagnosis and descriptions based on the newly collected topotype specimens were provided.
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Choice of tree holes as oviposition sites by Kurixalus eiffingeri on Iriomote Island
Oviposition site choice affects survival and growth of offspring, particularly in frogs in which the offspring cannot move from the oviposition site. We intended to find the features of tree holes used for oviposition by Kurixalus eiffingeri on Iriomote Island. We measured eight tree hole variables to determine which should be included in the best model to explain breeding use by K. eiffingeri. Out of 32 tree holes examined, we found five that were used for oviposition. The best model included the height above the ground and angle of opening. Higher located tree holes and a larger opening angle were associated with more frequent oviposition by K. eiffingeri. This trend may be due to the higher predation risk in lower tree holes with a steeper opening. The importance of the height of the breeding site above ground was also noted in a previous study on bamboo stumps in Taiwan, but the opening angle was only salient in this study. Our study suggested that the same species in different ecosystems may use different criteria when choosing oviposition sites.
["breeding"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Anti-predator behaviour of Rhinella major (Müller and Hellmich 1936), with insights into the Rhinella granulosa group
In anurans, the different types of anti-predator behaviour have been documented in isolation, but some species have shown synergistic strategies in different situations. The display of these types of behaviour may be related to the types of predators in the habitat, which boost defensive responses in their prey. However, most reports are mostly opportunistic and punctual observations, not systematic. Here, we report the occurrence of anti-predator behaviour in the toad Rhinella major (Müller and Hellmich 1936) (Amphibia, Anura, Bufonidae) in the face of different handling modes. Probably the disturbance caused by handling had elicited a predator deterrence response in the individual, causing it to rapidly exhibit such behaviour. These conditions are discussed along with an overview of anti-predator behaviour in species of the R. granulosa group and we re-interpreted these strategies for two species in the group.
["anuran behaviour"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

New distribution record, ecology and tail trifurcation of Cyrtodactylus mamanwa (Gekkonidae) on Dinagat Islands, Philippines
This study highlights the ecology, natural history, and a new distribution record by providing a unique habitat occurrence record in karst ecosystem and describes a tail anomaly of the endemic Mamanwa Bent-toed Gecko Cyrtodactylus mamanwa in the province of Dinagat. The detection of a new population on Unib Island in the southwestern Dinagat extends the previously known distribution of this gekkonid by approximately 100 km south from its known distribution.
["Dinagat Islands"]

Characterisation of a skin secretion with adhesive properties in the ground frog Eupsophus vertebralis (Alsodidae)
Some skin secretions with adhesive properties allow frogs to distract predators and escape; their nature is poorly studied. Here, we report the sticky skin secretion released by the Patagonian frog Eupsophus vertebralis when stressed. This secretion contained ~ 50% proteins spanning 25–250 kDa and required a fast setting time to turn into strong adhesive, which worked well on synthetic and biological materials. Lap-shear assays with Eupsophus glue secretion showed average shear strength of 3.34 MPa, comparable to cyanoacrylate (5.47 MPa). These properties suggest its biotechnological value for practical applications in industrial and medical sectors.
["Biochemical and Structural Characterization", "Silk-based biomaterials and applications", "Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities"]

Effects of body temperature on initial bite force in three species of rock- and crevice-dwelling lizards from Mexico
Bite force can be an important aspect of a lizard’s organismal performance, and is likely to be subject to influence by ambient conditions including an individual’s thermal environment. We examined the effects of body temperature (Tb) on initial bite force of rock- and crevice-dwelling individuals of three species of lizards: Abronia graminea (Anguidae), Barisia imbricata (Anguidae), and Xenosaurus fractus (Xenosauridae) from Mexico. In B. imbricata and X. fractus from one site (Xochititan, Puebla) initial bite force was greatest at intermediate Tb. In contrast, X. fractus from a second site (Tlatlauquitepec, Puebla) showed a weak tendency for initial bite force to increase with Tb. Initial bite force in A. graminea was not affected by Tb. Taking our results together, we infer that initial bite force in rock- or crevice-dwelling lizards is often, but not always, related to Tb.
["Abronia graminea"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

The Moorish gecko, Tarentola mauritanica Linnaeus, 1758 (Squamata, Phyllodactylidae), in Albania
We summarised the records of Tarentola mauritanica in Albania. The first record for the country was published in 1989 from Sazan Island; however, it was never confirmed again. Another population was found recently in an urban habitat of Vlorë City near the main city port, probably of human-mediated origin.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Lurking in the depth: Pond depth predicts microhabitat selection by Rhinella icterica (Anura: Bufonidae) tadpoles at two different sampling scales
Habitat selection has long been a central theme in ecology and has historically considered both physiological responses and ecological factors affecting species establishment. Investigating habitat selection patterns at different scales can provide important information on the relative roles of the environmental factors influencing the organisms’ abilities to use their surrounding habitat. This work aimed at investigating which environmental factors determine habitat selection by Rhinella icterica tadpoles, and also took the opportunity to investigate how the scale in which tadpoles and environmental data are sampled might influence the habitat selection results. A total of 2.240 tadpoles were counted in the whole sampling area, and while substrate cover and depth were the variables that better explained the abundance of tadpoles at the larger scale (plot level), depth and water turbidity better explained tadpoles’ abundance at the smaller scale (subplot level). The results suggest that avoiding predation by matching the background color is a likely process explaining tadpoles’ occupancy at both scales. Depth is known to influence tadpole habitat use in the tropics, and although its combination with turbidity and substrate cover varied between scales, our study suggests that sampling at different scales might not affect the inferred ecological processes driving habitat selection. This information might also be useful to predict tadpoles’ responses to micro-environmental perturbations and help in guiding the choice of parameters that should be taken into account when analyzing the effects of habitat degradation in Atlantic Forest amphibian populations.

The genus Pelophylax (Amphibia, Ranidae) in Pakistan: museum collections and possible distribution
We provide the first comprehensive data on the questionable distribution of the genus Pelophylax and the family Ranidae from Pakistan. Based on a literature review and two specimens of the genus from Tasp, Panjgur District in Pakistani Balochistan (USNM 26194–95), stored in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, USA, we discuss the possible occurrence and affiliation of these frogs in the context of Central Asia. Our comparison shows that the nearest records of Pelophylax in relation to the Tasp specimens are reported from more than 280 km (air-line) away in Iran and Afghanistan, which are currently separated by hot and mostly desert environments. We suggest that possible surviving populations of this genus may still be present in Balochistan (Rakhshan River) or Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Kabul River) Provinces of Pakistan. This would, however, need further field investigations.
["Afghanistan"]

A new species of Micryletta Dubois, 1987 (Anura, Microhylidae) from Yunnan Province, China
A new species of the genus Micryletta Dubois, 1987 is described from Yunnan Province, China, based on morphological and molecular analyses. The most obvious differences between the new species and other species of this genus are small body size, unique coloration, and relatively longer hind limbs. In 16S rRNA gene sequences, the new species is diverged from all other congeners by 3.1%–8.0%.

Second observation of the reproductive biology of Blythia reticulata (Blyth, 1854) (Reptilia, Squamata, Colubridae)
A second observation on the reproduction of Blythia reticulata was based on three eggs found on a forest path among leaf litter and successfully incubated. Given the limited knowledge on the natural history of the species, including its breeding biology, we provide information on egg measurements (n = 3; length = 25.54 ± 1.05 mm; width = 11.79 ± 0.37 mm; weight = 1.94 ± 0.24 g) and the first data on hatchling biometrics (n = 3; snout-vent length = 106 ± 1.73 mm; tail length = 14 ± 1.00 mm; weight = 1.13 ± 0.09 g) from Mizoram State, northeastern India.
["breeding"]

Females of the four-eyed frog, Pleurodema thaul (Anura, Leptodactylidae), respond behaviourally to conspecific male scent
Among amphibians, conspecific chemical communication has been widely studied in Caudata. Adult anurans, by contrast, have received less attention. Recently, it was shown that chemical scents are also relevant for adult anuran intraspecific communication. In this context, we evaluate whether females of the four-eyed frog (Pleurodema thaul) respond to conspecific male scents. We carried out a double choice experiment in a Y-maze. Females were repeatedly presented with the scents of several males versus distilled water. To extract the scent from males, we acoustically stimulated males and then used the water from their aquaria for the experiments. Our data suggest that females are capable of responding behaviourally to male scents, since they spent longer periods in the zones with male scent, rather than in zones with water. We propose that under natural breeding conditions, females of P. thaul may use either their chemical sense or chemical cues to facilitate their encounters with males.
["anuran communication"]

The first comprehensive data on the distribution of reptiles within the Southern Bug eco-corridor, Ukraine
This study provides distribution data for 12 species of reptiles in the Southern Bug eco-corridor located within the steppe zone, Mykolaiv Oblast (province), Ukraine. We compiled 935 records from published literature (324), from public databases (68), and from 12 field surveys we made in 2016–2020 (543). All records were mapped on to a grid of 10×10 km, representing the 294 cells of the studied area. We present new distributional data for Podarcis tauricus. For all the other species, our records add new localities that fall within areas where these reptiles were previously reported. Species richness and Shannon’s H’ index show that herpetofauna diversity was higher in the areas along the Southern Bug River. The maximum number of records within a single cell was 118 (for 10 species) in this oblast. Also the high number of identified reptile chorotypes (nine) within the Mykolaiv Oblast revealed that southern Ukraine is an important zoogeographical territory in Europe. These data provide the basis for future biogeographical and ecological studies and conservation priorities.
["Europe"]
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Legal, Health, Environmental and COVID-19 Challenges", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New herpetofaunal records from Gunung Mulu National Park and its surrounding areas in Borneo
Gunung Mulu National Park (GMNP) in northwestern Borneo is marked by high species diversity and diverse environments. We present one new amphibian and ten new reptile records from GMNP and its surrounding area. In the records, Asthenodipsas jamilinaisi and Garthius chaseni were newly recorded in the Sarawak State. We also present the first record of Cyrtodactylus muluensis from outside of GMNP and the second record of Opisthotropis typica from the park. Combined with previous information, a total of 108 amphibians and 104 reptiles are known from GMNP, and their preferred habitat types are diverse. Furthermore, observed male-male combat of Dopasia buettikoferi is the first detailed description of the genus. Two color morphs of D. buettikoferi had an identical ND2 haplotype and appeared to be the same species. The present study provides new information about Bornean amphibians and reptiles, and also emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Distribution extension of Calotes irawadi Zug, Brown, Schulte & Vindum, 2006, previously confused with C. versicolor (Daudin, 1802): first record from China
We report the first country record of Calotes irawadi, identified previously as C. versicolor, from China based on four specimens collected from Tongbiguan Nature Reserve, Western Yunnan, China. Morphologically, the specimens show good agreement with the original description of C. irawadi, and phylogenetically clustered with specimens (including holotype) of C. irawadi from Myanmar with strong support. This is also the first record of C. irawadi from outside Myanmar.
["Agamidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Fine-scale analysis of habitat occupancy by Kura lizard (Darevskia portschinskii) and its daughter parthenogenetic form (Darevskia dahli)
Two species of rock lizards, the parthenogenetic D. dahli and the sexually reproducing D. portschinskii, coexist in a rocky outcrop in an area of ca. 1 ha, in the vicinity of Tbilisi, Georgia; the location has been well-known since the middle 1960s. The population density of the parthenogenetic lizard is five times higher than that of the sexual breeder. We studied the distribution of active lizards in space and time over three consecutive years, during the spring and autumn activity periods, to explore spatial and temporal differences between the species on a fine spatial scale. We studied the influence of temperature, humidity, and quantitative characteristics of the surface and the distance from permanent water source on the spatial distribution of D. dahli and D. portschinskii. Darevskia portschinskii was less dependent on the distance from the water source and more evenly distributed in space and time than D. dahli. Despite potential competitive interactions, the species did not avoid each other on the microhabitat scale, suggesting that the observed ecological differences are not caused by a niche shift. More individuals of the sexual breeder than individuals of the parthenogen were found in suboptimal habitats. This feature may increase the evolutionary success of D. portschinskii in a long-term perspective.
["competition"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A high mountain lizard from Peru: The world’s highest-altitude reptile
Life at high altitudes is particularly challenging for ectothermic animals like reptiles and involves the evolution of specialised adaptations to deal with low temperatures, hypoxia and intense UV radiation. As a result, only very few reptile taxa are able to survive above 5,000 m elevation and herpetological observations from these altitudes are exceedingly rare. We report here an exceptional observation of a lizard population (Liolaemus aff. tacnae; Reptilia, Squamata) from the high Andes of Peru. During an ascent of Chachani mountain (6,054 m, 16°11'S, 71°32'W), we observed and documented photographically this species living between 5,000 and 5,400 m above sea level. Following a review of literature, we show that this is the highest known record of a reptile species.
["Liolaemus"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Yet another kukri snake piercing an anuran abdomen: Oligodon ocellatus (Morice, 1875) eats Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Schneider, 1799) in Vietnam
A case of Oligodon ocellatus eating a toxic adult toad, Duttaphrynus melanostictus, in Cat Tien National Park, southern Vietnam, is provided. We found a kukri snake having buried its head deeply into the abdomen of the toad and probably being in the process of eating organs. Subsequently, the toad was swallowed whole and the kukri snake moved away and disappeared with the toad’s hind feet still visible from its mouth. It is hypothesised that the behaviour of eviscerating or piercing anurans to eat their organs has been developed in the O. cyclurus species group or clade. This has now been observed in three species.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Gruesome twosome kukri rippers: Oligodon formosanus (Günther, 1872) and O. fasciolatus (Günther, 1864) eat Kaloula pulchra Gray, 1831 either by eviscerating or swallowing whole
Predation on adult microhylid frogs Kaloula pulchra by two closely-related colubrid snakes is described, based on two observations of Oligodon formosanus in Hong Kong and one observation of O. fasciolatus in Thailand. In two instances, O. formosanus was observed cutting open the abdomen of this anuran species. In one case, it performed repeated rotations about its own longitudinal body axis (“death roll”) while its head was inserted into the frog’s abdomen. The purpose of this behaviour was probably to tear off organs and swallow them. Once O. fasciolatus was observed catching and swallowing K. pulchra whole. In that case, the snake also made a series of rotations while it maintained its firm grip in the frog’s belly. It is concluded that, for these two closely-related kukri snakes, prey size is crucial for determining whether the gape width allows large preys to be swallowed entire.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Demography and spatial activity of fire salamanders, Salamandra salamandra (Linnaeus, 1758), in two contrasting habitats in the Vienna Woods
Understanding population dynamics is vital in amphibian conservation. To compare demography and movements, we conducted a capture-recapture study over three spring seasons in two populations of Salamandra salamandra in the Vienna Woods. The study sites differ in topography, vegetation, and the type of breeding waters. Population density in a beech forest traversed by a stream was more than twice as high as in an oak-hornbeam forest with temporary pools. Movement distances were on average higher at the latter site whereas home range estimates were similar for both sites. The sexes did not differ significantly in the observed movement patterns at either site. Annual apparent survival was mostly high (~0.85), but the estimate for females from the low-density site was lower (~0.60), indicating a higher rate of emigration or mortality.
["capture-recapture"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Rediscovery and distribution extension of the rare Kukri Snake, Oligodon hamptoni Boulenger, 1918 (Reptilia, Serpentes, Colubridae), with the first record of this species from China
Oligodon hamptoni is a rare species of Kukri Snake known from only two specimens, both collected nearly a century ago in northern Myanmar. Here, we report the third record of this species based on a photograph taken in Mt. Gaoligongshan, Tengchong City, Yunnan Province, China, approximately 235 km northeast of the nearest record in Bhamo District, Kachin State, Myanmar. We also provide a detailed redescription of the holotype, showing that the photo record from Mt. Gaoligongshan can be unambiguously identified to this species. This rediscovery represents the first observation of O. hamptoni in China and is the first report of this species in almost 100 years.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

An agricultural practice as a direct threat to the snake-eyed skink Ablepharus kitaibelii (Bibron & Bory de Saint-Vincent, 1833) in central Greece
Terrestrial reptiles are threatened by numerous anthropogenic activities, including agriculture. Many agricultural methods and techniques affect the herpetofauna located in the oldest known tree crops in the Mediterranean Basin, olive trees. For the first time, we present a case of unintentional capture (and killing) of 12 snake-eyed skinks Ablepharus kitaibelii (Bibron & Bory de Saint-Vincent, 1833) on an insect control sticky trap in an olive grove in central Greece.
["agriculture"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A case of color aberration in a fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) larva
Color aberrations in salamanders are caused by defective chromatophores or by disrupted synthesis of the pigments, and have been previously reported in Europe. In this paper we report the first case of leucism in a fire salamander larva from a cave-dwelling population in Romania. The leucistic larva was larger and heavier compared to the other larvae from the same breeding habitat.
["melanin and skin pigmentation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "bioluminescence and chemiluminescence research"]

First record of Rhacophorus verrucopus Huang, 1983 from Myanmar
We report the first country record of Rhacophorus verrucopus Huang, 1983 from Myanmar, based on one specimen collected from Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary, Sagaing Division. Morphologically, the specimen shows good agreement with the original description of R. verrucopus and phylogenetically, it is clustered with the specimen of R. verrucopus from Medog, Tibet, China with strong support. This is also the first record of R. verrucopus from outside of China.
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

First record of Zhangixalus franki Ninh, Nguyen, Orlov, Nguyen & Ziegler, 2020 (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from China
We record Zhangixalus franki Ninh, Nguyen, Orlov, Nguyen & Ziegler, 2020 for the first time from China based on two specimens collected from Laoshan Nature Reserve, Yunnan Province. Morphologically, the newly collected specimens from China mostly agree with the type series from Vietnam. Phylogenetically, these individuals were placed in a clade with Z. franki from Vietnam based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. Our finding brings the species number of the genus Zhangixalus to 29 in China.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Signals of decline of flagship species Ambystoma altamirani Dugès, 1895 (Caudata, Ambystomatidae) in a Mexican natural protected area
Mexico is home to 18 species of salamanders in the family Ambystomidae. Endangered Ambystoma altamirani Dugès, 1895 is a flagship species for the Lagos de Zempoala National Park (LZNP) in central Mexico, a protected area subject to numerous anthropogenic threats. Ambystoma altamirani populations in the Park have been little studied. In 2016–2017, we surveyed four streams where populations of the species had been previously reported. Habitat variables did not differ amongst streams and three had invasive rainbow trout, but we were only able to locate one A. altamirani population in Quila, a small, cold water stream lacking fish. We captured an average of 88 individuals (total n = 354; range 53–109) across all samples in this stream, including larvae, juveniles and adults. Population estimates ranged between 53 and 127 individuals. The absence in other streams suggests reductions in the spatial extent of A. altamirani in the LZNP. We suggest rainbow trout presence in numerous streams have led to local extirpation of A. altamirani and that removal and blockage of the invasive fish and a planned re-introduction strategy might help in restoring this flagship species.
["Guerrero de la Paz", "Jesica Gabriela"]
["mountain stream siredon"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Crepuscular and nocturnal activity of the Nose-horned viper, Vipera ammodytes (Linnaeus, 1758) is more common than previously reported
Different snake species may be active at various times of the day. In Europe, most snake species are predominantly diurnal, but about a third are partially or principally crepuscular and/or nocturnal. Here, we report the first instance of multiple in situ observations of the crepuscular and nocturnal activity of V. ammodytes in Bulgaria. Overall, usually as a result of general herpetological surveys and chance observations between 2001–2020, we recorded crepuscular/nocturnal activity of twenty-seven individuals from both sexes and all age classes (juvenile to adult), observed from April to September, following warm (maximum daily Tair = 20–28 °C) and hot (Tair > 28 °C) days. These records represent less than 1.5% of all our personal viper observations. However, given that our observations occurred throughout the country, within five different climatic zones, we hypothesise that nocturnal activity of V. ammodytes is more common than previously reported.
["behavior"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Eviscerated alive: Novel and macabre feeding strategy in Oligodon fasciolatus (Günther, 1864) eating organs of Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Schneider, 1799) in Thailand
A hitherto unknown feeding mode among snakes is described for the colubrid snake Oligodon fasciolatus in Northeast Thailand. Three cases of O. fasciolatus using enlarged posterior maxillary teeth to cut open the abdomen of a live poisonous toad Duttaphrynus melanostictus and eat its organs are described. The snakes and toads fought vigorously, and the toads secreted toxic white liquid on the dorsum and neck. The snakes inserted their heads into the abdomen of the toads, pulled out some of the organs and swallowed them. The snakes and toads were adults. All three cases were documented by extensive photographic material. In a fourth case from Central Thailand, an adult O. fasciolatus was observed swallowing an entire semi-adult D. melanostictus. The majority of all snake species swallow their prey in one piece, but to place our observations in a broader context we review a number of exceptions.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

The first record of the genus Microgecko Nikolskii, 1907 for Iraq
The genus Microgecko Nikolskii, 1907 (Gekkonidae) currently includes eight species distributed from western Iran to north-western India and Pakistan. During field research in Iraq, we found a population of the genus near to the Darbandikhan Lake in the north-eastern part of the country. Because members of the genus are characterized by a higher level of morphological and genetic diversity, we investigated the population using both morphological and molecular approaches. The phylogenetic analyses based on a fragment of the mitochondrial marker cytochrome b and morphological characters showed that our investigated population belongs to M. helenae fasciatus. This is the first record of the genus and species for Iraq. Moreover, the phylogenetic structure within M. helenae shows divergences that suggest the elevation of M. h. fasciatus to species level.
["Gekkonidae"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Study of Mite Species", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Orientation and navigation in Bufo bufo: a quest for repeatability of arena experiments
Research on navigation in animals is hampered by conflicting results and failed replications. In order to assess the generality of previous results, male Bufo bufo were collected during their breeding migration and translocated to two testing sites, 2.4 and 2.9 km away, respectively, from their breeding pond in the north of Vienna (Austria). There each toad was tested twice for orientation responses in a circular arena, on the night of collection and four days later. On the first test day, the toads showed significant axial orientation along their individual former migration direction. On the second test day, no significant homeward orientation was detected. Both results accord with findings of previous experiments with toads from another population. We analysed the potential influence of environmental factors (temperature, cloud cover and lunar cycle) on toad orientations using a MANOVA approach. Although cloud cover and lunar cycle had small effects on the second test day, they could not explain the absence of homeward orientation. The absence of homing responses in these tests may be either caused by the absence of navigational capabilities of toads beyond their home ranges, or by inadequacies of the applied method. To resolve this question, tracking of freely moving toads should have greater potential than the use of arena experiments.
["Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Aspidoscelis costatus costatus (Squamata, Teiidae): high elevation clutch production for a population of whiptail lizards
Clutch size and number of clutches per reproductive cycle are important life history traits that can be influenced by anatomical, physiological, evolutionary, and ecological factors. This report on the clutch size and number of clutches of an endemic Mexican whiptail lizard, Aspidoscelis costatus costatus (Cope, 1878), is based on a study of population at an unusually high elevation for a member of this genus. The study site is located in Ixtapan de la Sal, southeastern Estado de México, Central Mexico, at 2090 m a.s.l. Lizards were sampled in June 2006, and from May to July 2007, where females of Aspidoscelis costatus costatus were collected by hand along a drift fence. Female reproductive condition was evaluated based on abdominal palpation for presence of developing eggs; clutch size was determined by actual counts of either vitellogenic follicles or oviductal eggs. The smallest reproductive female was 77 mm snout-vent length; females produced a minimum of two clutches during the breeding season, the mean clutch size of 6.5 eggs (n = 33) was one of the largest reported for the genus. However, both length and width of its eggs, and the relative clutch mass have not been diminished by development of a large clutch. Additionally, comparisons of clutch size were undertaken within the polytypic A. costatus complex, within the genus Aspidoscelis, and between certain genera of whiptail lizards. This apparently represents the first study of whiptail lizards (genus Aspidoscelis), assessing the aforementioned reproductive characteristics, in a population above 2000 m.
["Balsas Basin Whiptail"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

First record of the invasive gecko, Lepidodactylus lugubris Duméril & Bibron, 1836 in mainland Chile (Squamata, Gekkonidae)
In Chile, the presence of Mourning Gecko, Lepidodactylus lugubris Duméril & Bibron, 1836 has been recognized for Easter Island (Rapa Nui) from late 19th century. Here, we report the first observation of a juvenile specimen of L. lugubris in an urban zone of Santiago, Región Metropolitana, mainland Chile, representing the southernmost non-insular record in America for this invasive species. Moreover, an updated distributional map of L. lugubris for South America and the Antilles is provided.
["lizards"]

New record of a Dalmatolacerta oxycephala (Duméril & Bibron, 1839) population in the northern part of Montenegro
Two previously known northernmost localities of Sharp-snouted rock lizard in Montenegro were the entrance of the Komarnica Canyon (Nevidio), and the middle part of the Tara River Canyon (village Tepca). It was presumed that Komarnica and Piva canyons were once corridors for the spreading of this species from the Eastern Adriatic sub-Mediterranean area to the Tara River Canyon in the north. However, it had not been hitherto known if there were any other relict populations in the area. In the autumn of 2019 a localized population of D. oxycephala was discovered in the middle part of the Komarnica Canyon.
["Komarnica river canyon"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Study of Mite Species", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First study of sea turtle strandings in Algeria (western Mediterranean) and associated threats: 2016–2017
Between December 2015 and December 2017 a total of 63 sea turtles were recorded as being stranded along the Algerian coast. The loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta was the most commonly stranded species (n = 44) (69.8%), followed by the leatherback Dermochelys coriacea (n = 18) (28.6%) and the green turtle Chelonia mydas (n = 1). There was a slight dominance of the adult size class for stranded loggerhead turtles, while, for the leatherback, late juveniles and adults prevailed. Most loggerhead turtles stranded during the summer months (July and August), whereas most leatherbacks stranded during winter. The breakdown of the strandings by region shows a slight dominance along the western and central shores for C. caretta and a clear dominance in the west for D. coriacea. The primary cause of death was determined in 50.8% of the stranded turtles. Regarding the evidence of interactions with humans the major cause of stranding in loggerhead turtles was incidental catch by artisanal fisheries, followed by boats’ collisions. The main causes of leatherback strandings were boats’ collisions. Algerian data show that human activities affect loggerhead turtles and also prove a significant presence of the leatherback turtle on this coast.
["Algerian coast"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Rabies epidemiology and control"]

Variation in species richness, composition and herpetological community structure across a tropical habitat gradient of Palawan Island, Philippines
Information on species richness and community structure is invaluable for guiding conservation and management of biodiversity, but is rarely available in the megadiverse biodiversity conservation hotspot of Philippines – particularly for amphibians and reptiles. This study provides the first report and characterisation of amphibians and reptile communities across primary habitat types of the Victoria-Anepahan Mountain Range on Palawan Island along the western edge of the archipelago. A total of 41 amphibian and reptile species were recorded throughout our sampling sites (n = 27 species) or in targeted habitat searches (14 species). A species richness estimator predicted that 35 species may be present in our sampling sites, suggesting that a significant proportion of secretive species may continue to be unrecorded, especially for reptiles. Higher species richness was found in secondary growth than in mixed-use agricultural areas or even pristine forest. The low species richness recorded from pristine forest types may be due to these forests now being restricted to higher elevations where species diversity has been documented to decrease. Our results also show that complex community structures (species assemblages) are to be equally expected in both secondary growth and pristine forests. Together, our results show how species richness and community assemblages may vary across habitats, highlighting that old growth forest does not always support higher species richness, particularly in high elevations.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

The possible origin of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) in Ukraine
The phylogenetic relationships and possible origin of a putative non-native population of Podarcis muralis in Ukraine were assessed based on sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Ukrainian lizards belong to two distinct mitochondrial lineages (haplogroups), both occurring within the Central Balkan clade, which includes most of central and south-eastern European populations. From overall three detected Ukrainian haplotypes, one haplotype share same genetic signal with the hyplotype from the locality Bjala (Bulgaria), the other two are unique for Ukrainian population. Two of haplotypes correspond with haplogroup covering large geographic region of Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania. These results reinforce previous findings that the species has the ability to establish new populations out of its native range. While most introductions to Germany and Britain have been deliberate, it appears likely that human transport of goods via the Danube river of goods is responsible for the range expansion into Ukraine.
["genetic diversity"]

An assessment of vouchered records and field observations of the rare anguid, Dopasia buettikoferi (Lidth de Jeude, 1905) in Borneo
We report recent observations, two new locality records and an updated overview of the distribution of Dopasia buettikoferi (Lidth de Jeude, 1905) from Borneo, as well as photographic documentation of this species showing colouration and patterns in living individuals and the holotype. This note represents the first complete compilation of distributional knowledge of this rarely-encountered member of the family Anguidae.
["Anguidae"]
["Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Observations on the oviposition of Blythia reticulata (Blyth, 1854) with new distributional records from Mizoram State, NE India
The poorly known semi-fossorial snake Blythia reticulata is a small, oviparous, worm-eating species found in northeastern India and neighboring countries. Here we report on multiple new distribution localities that extend the known geographic range of the species. In addition, we provide new information on the reproductive biology of the species based on egg-laying behavior data from a captive gravid B. reticulata from Mizoram. The simultaneous presence of a second clutch of eight eggs in the oviduct of the female indicates the capacity of the species to exhibit multiple matings and egg clutches during a single reproductive season.
["Blyth\u2019s Reticulate Snake"]

Where do you come from, stranger? A scientific-historical digression with discussion on nomenclature and taxonomy of Testudo graeca Linnaeus, 1758
It is shown that the location data for the terra typica restricta of Testudo graeca and for the terra typica designata for Testudo graeca are based on an incorrectly assigned location. In fact, the original place corresponds to Santa Cruz, known today as Agadir (Morocco) and not the old Spanish fortress of Santa Cruz near Oran in Algeria. Accordingly, populations of Testudo graeca from the Agadir environment have to be named Testudo graeca graeca instead of Testudo graeca soussensis. For the populations of Testudo graeca from the vicinity of Algiers, “mauritanica” is the next available name for this subspecies of graeca. Therefore, Testudo graeca mauritanica has to be used instead of Testudo graeca graeca. For Testudo graeca mauritanica, a lectotypus is designated.
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Animal Diversity and Health Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

Genetic evidence for occurrence of Macrovipera razii (Squamata, Viperidae) in the central Zagros region, Iran
This study presents the first molecular evidence of Macrovipera razii from central Zagros, more than 300 km north-west of its prior records in southern Iran. Molecular analyses based on mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences identified the individuals from central Zagros as a lineage of M. razii. Specimens from the new localities are separated by a genetic distance of 1.46% from the known populations of M. razii. The results extend the known distribution range of M. razii as an endemic species of Iran.
["Iran"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Characterization of an Alsodes pehuenche breeding site in the Andes of central Chile
Alsodes pehuenche, an endemic anuran that inhabits the Andes of Argentina and Chile, is considered “Critically Endangered” due to its restricted geographical distribution and multiple potential threats that affect it. This study is about the natural history of A. pehuenche and the physicochemical characteristics of a breeding site located in the Maule mountain range of central Chile. Moreover, the finding of its clutches in Chilean territory is reported here for the first time. Finally, a description of the number and morphology of these eggs is provided.
["Alsodidae"]

Shot the spots: A reliable field method for individual identification of Amolops formosus (Anura, Ranidae)
Natural body patterns in amphibians are widely used for individual recognition. In this study, we photographed individuals of Amolops formosus for four days of sampling without handling them. We processed 301 photographs of dorsal blotch pattern in HotSpotter software and verified them visually for confirmation. We identified 160 unique individuals of A. formosus based on the images taken in the field, resulting in an abundance estimate of 180 individuals. The success rate in identifying individuals of A. formosus using the HotSpotter software was 94.3%. We tested the effect of image quality and distance on recognition efficiency. Poor image quality reduced the recognition efficiency of the software but with a careful user review it was possible to identify the individual. The difference between using only the software and software plus human confirmation was very small. This protocol is useful for rapid population estimation of frogs with natural body patterns.

An update of the geographical distribution of Pleurodema marmoratum (Duméril & Bibron, 1840) in the Chilean Altiplano
This study summarizes new and historical records of one of the least known anuran species from the Chilean Altiplano, Pleurodema marmoratum (Duméril & Bibron, 1840). The discovery of a new population in the Altiplano of the Región de Antofagasta extends the known distribution of this species in Chile approximately 100 km south.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

New records of the anomaly P syndrome in two water frog species (Pelophylax ridibundus and P. lessonae) in Russia
The “anomaly P” was described in Palearctic water frogs of the genus Pelophylax by Jean Rostand as complex morphological anomalies of water frogs, including polydactyly, brachymely, hind limb oedema, bone outgrowths, spikes, flexions and additional limbs in the inguinal region. In 2016, the anomaly P syndrome was rediscovered in central Russia, confirming the hypothesis concerning its wider distribution. Here, three new records of this syndrome in two species of western Palearctic water frog from Russia are described.
["morphological anomalies"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "interferon and immune responses"]

The home range of adult Phrynops geoffroanus (Testudines, Chelidae) in relation to sex and body mass
Studying how different variables influence the size and shape of animals’ home ranges helps our understanding of the ecology of individuals and populations. This study aims to assess the effects of sex and body mass on home range size and the sexual differences in the use of terrestrial habitats of a population of aquatic turtles Phrynops geoffroanus from an urban area in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Turtles were captured along a river by active search, occasional encounter and hoop traps. Using individual VHF radio transmitters, 13 individuals (7 females and 6 males) were radio-tracked by homing in on the signal strength of the transmitter. Home ranges were estimated by 95% and 50% core one-dimensional fixed kernel and linear distance method. Home ranges were similar for both sexes (t = -0.50, DF = 12, p = 0.62) and independent of body mass (t = -0.53, DF = 12, p = 0.60). However, females seemed to use terrestrial habitats more than males (females = six recorded locations out of 767 points; males = none), probably to nest. To gain insight on how males and females use their space, it would be useful to focus future studies on the influence of sex in microhabitat selection of Phrynops geoffroanus. Finally, as sex did not influence home range, studying the contribution of other variables – both intrinsic, as age or personality, and extrinsic, as habitat composition or distribution of trophic resources – shaping the home ranges of the species is proposed.
["one-dimensional fixed kernel"]

The Caucasian Toad, Bufo verrucosissimus (Pallas, 1814) in the Levant: evidence from mitochondrial DNA
We present the first molecular analysis of the Bufo bufo (Linnaeus, 1758) complex population in the Levant. This complex contains four species distributed through the Western Palearctic. Based on the analysis of the widely used mitochondrial marker 16S rRNA, populations from the Levant belong to B. verrucosissimus (Pallas, 1814) and have a close affiliation to populations from the Transcaucasian region rather than southern Turkey. Such identified relationships may imply past rapid colonisation from north to south and support the need for further research.
["common toad"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Genetic diversity and structure of two endangered mole salamander species of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt
The most important factor leading to amphibian population declines and extinctions is habitat degradation and destruction. To help prevent further extinctions, studies are needed to make appropriate conservation decisions in small and fragmented populations. The goal of this study was to provide data from the population genetics of two micro-endemic mole salamanders from the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. Nine microsatellite markers were used to study the population genetics of 152 individuals from two Ambystoma species. We sampled 38 individuals in two localities for A. altamirani and A. rivulare. We found medium to high levels of genetic diversity expressed as heterozygosity in the populations. However, all the populations presented few alleles per locus and genotypes. We found strong genetic structure between populations for each species. Effective population size was small but similar to that of the studies from other mole salamanders with restricted distributions or with recently fragmented habitats. Despite the medium to high levels of genetic diversity expressed as heterozygosity, we found few alleles, evidence of a genetic bottleneck and that the effective population size is small in all populations. Therefore, this study is important to propose better management plans and conservation efforts for these species.
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Evolution and Genetic Dynamics"]

Basking activity pattern of the European pond turtle, Emys orbicularis (Linnaeus, 1758) in Babat valley (Gödöllő, Hungary)
The populations of the widespread European pond turtle and their numbers are decreasing in Hungary and other European countries. Knowledge of basking habits, along with other biological characteristics of the species, could be important to preserve the European pond turtle. The purpose of our research was to assess the seasonal and daily basking activity of the European pond turtle, and the effects of weather parameters on sun-basking, for which no prior data exist for Hungary. Our study was carried out in the area of a dammed valley pond system at Gödöllő (Hungary) over two years. The results showed that the seasonal peak of the turtles’ basking (the highest number of observed sun-basking turtles) was in the spring. When using a finer time scale (1.5-hour intervals), we found that daily activity peaks were earlier in the spring and summer (11:00–12:30 h) than in autumn (12:30–14:00 h). Based on three measured temperatures (air temperature in shade and sunlight, water temperature), the number of basking turtles positively correlated with temperatures and varied seasonally; the optimal temperature ranges also shifted during the year. In the spring and autumn, turtles started sun-basking at lower temperatures than in the summer. We observed the narrowest optimal temperature ranges in the summer as well. Based on a Principal Component Analysis of weather parameters, low humidity and high air temperature created optimal basking conditions, whereas high humidity, and low air and water temperatures had an adverse effect.
["freshwater turtle"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Relative clutch mass of Basiliscus vittatus Wiegmann, 1828 (Squamata, Corytophanidae): female morphological constraints
Clutch size (CS) and relative clutch mass (RCM) are considered important features in life history descriptions of species within Squamata. Variations in these two characteristics are caused by both biotic and abiotic factors. The present study provides the first account related to CS and RCM of Basiliscus vittatus in Mexico within a population that inhabits an open riverbed juxtapositioned to tropical rainforest habitat in Catemaco, Veracruz, Mexico (170 m a.s.l.). Twenty-nine gravid females were collected and kept in captivity under favorable conditions that promote oviposition. The CS within this population was 6.2 ± 0.2 and was correlated positively with snout vent-length (SVL); while the RCM was 0.17 ± 0.006 and was correlated positively with both CS and width of egg. Factors, such as female morphology and environmental conditions, should influence these reproductive traits in B. vittatus. The data collected in this study could provide a framework for comparisons of the life history traits across populations of B. vittatus in Mexico and within other species of the family Corytophanidae and provide a model for testing how abiotic and biotic factors may influence the CS and RCM in basilisk lizards throughout their range.
["clutch size"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Body size, age structure and survival rates in two populations of the Beyşehir frog Pelophylax caralitanus
In many amphibians, skeletochronology is a reliable tool for assessing individual mean longevity, growth rates and age at sexual maturity. We used this approach to determine the age structure of 162 individuals from two Pelophylax caralitanus populations. All individuals exhibited Lines of Arrested Growth (LAGs) in the bone cross-sections and the average age varied between 4.5 and 5.4 years in both Işıklı and Burdur populations. Although intraspecific age structure and sex-specific age structure did not differ significantly between populations, we found that the Işıklı population had a lower body size in the same age class, had lower growths rates and lower values of survival rates and adult life expectancy than the Burdur population.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Additional data to the herpetofauna of Afghanistan
This study provides observation on 21 species of amphibians and reptiles obtained during various field trips in Afghanistan from 2007 to 2018. The core of this study is distributional data collected mostly by the second author of this paper that were systematically evaluated. Our records show a notable expansion of the current distribution range for several species and highlight the need for more extensive further sampling within the entire country. The first record of Cyrtopodion agamuroides (Nikolsky, 1900) complex for Afghanistan is presented here, increasing the number of herpetofauna in the country to 117 species.

Eaten or beaten? Severe population decline of the invasive lizard Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810) after an eradication project in Athens, Greece
Invasive species have been recognised as an important hazard to native communities. Amongst the mitigation measures that have been proposed to confront biological invasions, eradication projects are certainly the most drastic. In this short communication, a successful eradication project against a recently established population of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) in Athens, Greece, is reported. To this aim, the Hellenic Herpetological Society received unforeseen aid from stray cats and, possibly, from the Οcellated skink (Chalcides ocellatus) and vegetation growth. Within three years, the initial thriving P. siculus population has shrunk to very few individuals.
["cat predation"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Emergence and dispersal of snakes after syntopic hibernation
A communal hibernaculum situated in Southwestern Bulgaria and its adjacent area (4 km in diameter) was studied. Seven snake species used this hibernating den, Malpolon insignitus, Dolichophis caspius, Platyceps najadum, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Telescopus fallax, Vipera ammodytes and Xerotyphlops vermicularis. The emergence of the snakes was related to the rise of daily temperatures. Malpolon insignitus emerged from hibernation earlier in the spring than the other species, and most individuals were the first to leave the hibernaculum. There was a temporal segregation among the basking area in early spring, between the latter species and D. caspius, which were the two most abundant species. These two species also used the same area of the hibernaculum, in contrast to P. najadum and E. quatuorlineata, which used a different area. After spring dispersal, M. insignitus and D. caspius used the same microhabitats during the rest of the active period. The earlier emergence of M. insignitus (and earlier departure from the site) probably reduces the competition for basking sites. The early departure of the species may give advantage in the competition for optimal microhabitats with D. caspius.
["microhabitat"]

Endoparasites in two species of ranid frogs from Peninsular Malaysia, Odorrana hosii (Boulenger, 1891) and O. monjerai (Matsui and Jaafar, 2006), with comments on modes of infection
Odorrana hosii and O. monjerai from Peninsular Malaysia were examined for endoparasites. Only Nematoda were found. For Odorrana hosii, Amphibiocapillaria bufonis, Cosmocerca ornata and Abbreviata sp. (cysts) were found. For O. monjerai, A. bufonis and C. ornata were found. All are new host records.
["Nematoda"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Hindlimb abnormality reduces locomotor performance in Pelobates cultripes metamorphs but is not predicted by larval morphometrics
Locomotor performance is a fundamental feature commonly related to many animals’ fitness. In most cases, locomotor performance is closely related to morphology of the structures responsible for it, which is therefore under strong selective pressure. Hence, limb abnormality could hinder locomotion and, for that reason, be eradicated by selection, which could explain its overall low prevalence that makes proper research difficult. Here, we took advantage of the moderately high prevalence of hindlimb abnormality in a sample of Iberian spadefoot (Pelobates cultripes) metamorphs developed from tadpoles captured and transferred to the laboratory before selection could act against metamorph abnormality. We tested the hypothesis that limb abnormality impairs locomotor performance. Moreover, we measured several larval and metamorph morphometrics, and checked for differences between normal and abnormal-limbed individuals. We also assessed correlations between hindlimb ratio (hindlimb length/SVL) and jumping performance in normal and abnormal-limbed metamorphs. Larval traits measured could not predict hindlimb abnormality. In metamorphs, only hindlimb ratio differed between normal and abnormal-limbed individuals, being shorter in the latter. Abnormal-limbed metamorphs jumped considerably shorter distances than normal-limbed conspecifics. Therefore, selection against reduced locomotor performance could eliminate limb abnormality from populations. Hindlimb ratio was included in the model as a covariable, and thus controlled for. Consequently, other factors besides shorter hindlimbs, probably hindlimb abnormality itself, could play a role in worse jumping capability of abnormal-limbed individuals. Hindlimb ratio was positively related to jumping distance in both groups, although the relationship was weaker in abnormal-limbed metamorphs.
["anomaly"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Herpetofauna in a highly endangered area: the Triângulo Mineiro region, in Minas Gerais State, Brazil
The Brazilian Cerrado and Atlantic Forest shelter an especially rich herpetofauna and experience strong anthropogenic disturbances, which is also true for the western portion of Minas Gerais State. Herein, we present a list of the herpetofauna from the Triângulo Mineiro region in Minas Gerais State, southeastern Brazil. From 2012 to 2016, we sampled 28 localities along 23 municipalities in the region, using three sampling methods: active search, pitfall traps, and opportunistic records. We recorded 79 species, 44 amphibians and 35 reptiles. Three species (Bokermannohyla sazimai, Ololygon canastrensis, and Pithecopus azureus) are classified as “data deficient” (DD) according to the IUCN. One species (Proceratophrys moratoi) is classified as “critically endangered” (CR) according to the IUCN Red List, and “endangered” (EN) according to the national red list. However, we suggest listing P. moratoi in the “least concern” category. We also present the first record of Dendropsophus elianeae in Minas Gerais State, and distribution map of the species. Furthermore, we elucidate the composition of the herpetofauna in the Triângulo Mineiro region and contribute to future conservation plans for the region and the species.

A long-term study of a snake community in north-western Tuscany (central Italy): population structure and density patterns
We analysed a snake species community of a Mediterranean 0.2 ha ecotonal area during a 21 year time span, monitoring two colubrid and one viperid snake species. We carried out analyses in seven years (1997, 1999, 2002, 2004–2005, 2016–2017) that had similar sampling efforts and, in the last two years of short-term monitoring, we applied a recently proposed monitoring protocol of the Italian Environment Ministry. In total, we captured 172 distinct individuals, 61 whip snakes (Hierophis viridiflavus), 26 barred grass snakes (Natrix helvetica) and 85 asp vipers (Vipera aspis). Regarding the long-term monitoring period, whip snakes were captured on average about nine times per year, grass snakes were captured four times per year and asp vipers were found 12 times per year. Captures decreased in whip snakes, while increased in grass snakes and remained constant in asp vipers. In 2016 and 2017, we captured 10 whip snakes, 19 grass snakes and 31 asp vipers. Density estimates of snake species (0.5 H. viridiflavus/ha, 0.3 N. helvetica/ha and 0.7 V. aspis/ha) differ, to a certain extent, from published results for some other areas of central, northern and western Europe, perhaps depending on the approach applied for habitat suitability estimation. The average body size between two years differed neither for whip snakes nor for grass snakes, but it decreased significantly in asp vipers.
["central Mediterranean Italy"]

Early onset of breeding season in the green toad Bufotes viridis in Western Poland
Amphibians are highly sensitive to environmental changes such as climate warming. Here, we report unusually early oviposition in two spatially isolated urban subpopulations of the green toad Bufotes viridis Laurenti, 1768, in Poznań, Western Poland. To our knowledge, we report the earliest breeding date for Central and Eastern Europe, for areas of similar latitude. We ascribe the early onset of B. viridis reproduction to an exceptionally warm spring in Western Poland in 2017. B. viridis shows flexibility in the timing of reproductive activity, however, shifts in breeding phenology may have both beneficial and detrimental population consequences.

Observation on rapid physiological color change in Giant tree frog Rhacophorus smaragdinus (Blyth, 1852) from Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Many poikilotherms have the ability to change body color for homeostatic regulation, conspecific communication or predator deterrence. Physiological color change is a rapid, reversible mode of color change regulated by neuromuscular or neuroendocrine system and has been observed in several anuran species. Here we report the occurrence of physiological color change in the tree frog Rhacophorus smaragdinus (Blyth, 1852) (Amphibia, Anura, Rhacophoridae) for the first time from Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh, India. Probable proximate causes of the behavior are discussed along with an overview of physiological color change in species of the family Rhacophoridae and nature of color change observed.
["anuran behavior"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Neurobiology and Insect Physiology Research", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Tropidodipsas sartorii (Cope, 1863) (Squamata: Dipsadidae): an addition to the snake fauna from Guerrero, Mexico
We report for the first time on the presence of the snake Tropidodipsas sartorii in the Mexican state of Guerrero. According to distribution and morphological evidence, the specimen reported herein is a representative of the subspecies T. s. macdougalli.
["Southern Mexico"]

New data on the distribution of lizards in Caucasus
New data on the distribution of four species of lizards (Darevskia brauneri, D. daghestanica, Lacerta agilis ioriensis, L. strigata) in the Caucasus are presented.
["Darevskia brauneri"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Release calls of four species of Phyllomedusidae (Amphibia, Anura)
Anurans emit a variety of acoustic signals in different behavioral contexts during the breeding season. The release call is a signal produced by the frog when it is inappropriately clasped by another frog. In the family Phyllomedusidae, this call type is known only for Pithecophus ayeaye. Here we describe the release call of four species: Phyllomedusa bahiana, P. sauvagii, Pithecopus rohdei, and P. nordestinus, based on recordings in the field. The release calls of these four species consist of a multipulsed note. Smaller species of the Pithecopus genus (P. ayeaye, P. rohdei and P. nordestinus), presented shorter release calls (0.022–0.070 s), with higher dominant frequency on average (1508.8–1651.8 Hz), when compared to the bigger Phyllomedusa (P. bahiana and P. sauvagii) (0.062–0.107 s; 798.7–1071.4 Hz). For phyllomedusid species, the release call might indicate a phylogenetic signal, because species of the same genus have similar acoustic traits.
["vocalization"]

A skeletochronological estimate of age and growth in a large riparian frog from Madagascar (Anura, Mantellidae, Mantidactylus)
We characterized the body size (as snout-vent length), age, sexual size dimorphism, and growth rate in a population of one of the larger riparian frog from Madagascar (Mantidactylus grandidieri) from a rainforest patch close to Vevembe, SE Madagascar. We identified a significant female-biased sexual size dimorphism. Age was estimated using phalangeal skeletochronology and was significantly higher in females than in males. Modal age class turned out to be 4 years in both sexes but a large percentage of adult females (75%) fell in the 5–6 years-old classes, while no male exceeded 4 years. We here report M. grandidieri as a medium-long-lived anuran species. Von Bertalanffy’s model showed similar growth trajectories between the sexes although the growth coefficient in females (k = 0.335) was slightly but not significantly higher than in males (k = 0.329).
["growth curve"]

Diet of the Rufous Frog Leptodactylus fuscus (Anura, Leptodactylidae) from two contrasting environments
The impact of urbanization on amphibians has received some attention in the conservation literature. Despite the various impacts on animal life, some species can persist along the cities structures by adjusting their natural histories. Leptodactylus fuscus is a common anuran species occurring in South America, which can commonly be found in urban environments. Herein, we compare the diet of L. fuscus between an urban and a wild environment. We collected 57 individuals of L. fuscus and analysed their diet, which differed significantly between the two sites. In the urban environment, Coleoptera were the prevalent prey items, whereas specimens from the wild site had a more diverse diet.
["anthropic changes"]

Tadpole of Leptopelis ragazzii (Boulenger, 1896), Shoa Forest Tree Frog (Anura, Arthroleptidae)
The tadpole of poorly studied Leptopelis ragazzii (Boulenger, 1896), a high-altitude tree frog species from the Ethiopian highlands, is described for the first time and compared with closely related sympatric species – L. gramineus (Boulenger, 1898) and L. vannutellii (Boulenger, 1898).
["Arthroleptidae"]

Does carnivory pay off? Experiments on the effects of different types of diet on growth and development of Bufo bufo (Linnaeus, 1758) tadpoles and carry-over effects after metamorphosis
Natural diets of anuran larvae vary widely in their relative amounts of nutrients. The proportion of these ingested nutrients has significant influence on larval and post-metamorphic performance. Here, we use the Common Toad to address the role of diet (exclusively carnivore, exclusively vegetarian and mixed) on growth and development of tadpoles and short-term carry-over effects on post-metamorphic animals. Larvae fed on an exclusively vegetarian diet performed better (faster growth and development) than larvae fed on exclusively carnivore and mixed diets. Larvae fed on the exclusively carnivore diet had the lowest performance. Regarding the carry-over effects of larval diets, although the body condition indices of the toadlets were similar in all treatments, there was a major difference in the survival rate. While toadlets, originating from larvae fed on a vegetarian diet, were more successful and had the lowest mortality, those fed on a carnivore diet had the highest mortality level. Our results suggest that a plant-based diet may contain all the necessary nutrients needed by Bufo bufo larvae. Furthermore, a diet based exclusively on food of animal origin might be detrimental for the larval performance and could have significant carry-over effects on the post-metamorphic animal.

First record of Platyceps rhodorachis (Jan in de Filippi, 1865) from the Alay Mountains, southern Kyrgyzstan
We report recent observations of Platyceps rhodorachis (Jan in de Filippi, 1865) from Kyrgyzstan and the first species record from the Alay Mountains. It represents an important range extension in the Central Asiatic distribution of the species.
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Opening a turtle graveyard: Size distribution of dead individuals of Phrynops geoffroanus (Pleurodira, Chelidae)
Aquatic animals, such as freshwater turtles, are much dependent on the water bodies where they live. Here we describe the size distribution of a population of Phrynops geoffroanus complex that died after the total drought of the artificial water reservoir where it lived in Caatinga. Amongst the 438 animals we found dead in the Cedro water reservoir, we measured the maximum carapace length of 72 individuals. The population was mainly composed of adult individuals and dead turtles measured in areas that kept water for longer were larger than animals from areas that dried up early.
["body size"]
["Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Fluctuations in population abundance in two anurans from Central Serbia
We monitored the population size of the agile frog (Rana dalmatina) and the common toad (Bufo bufo) from 2011 or 2012, respectively, to the year 2017 at a syntopic breeding site in the vicinity of Belgrade. Adult R. dalmatina population size had minor fluctuations during the years of study (from 351 to 108 frogs). On the contrary, the adult B. bufo population was widely fluctuating towards decline (from 1158 to 141 toads). In both species, population fluctuations were not significantly related to variation of meteorological parameters (air temperature, humidity, precipitation). Density dependence effects on population size were not detected in either species. Apart from possible effects of climate change, the indicated trend towards decline of the monitored B. bufo population could also be the outcome of common population fluctuations or of increasing anthropogenic impact (vicinity of settlement and agricultural land). More years of monitoring more than one population are required to obtain precise information. Nevertheless, our results seem to be coherent with other studies that recommend conservation action for this species.
["Bufo bufo"]

A case of communal egg-laying of Gonatodes albogularis (Sauria, Sphaerodactylidae) in bromeliads (Poales, Bromeliaceae)
The Neotropical Yellow-Headed Gecko Gonatodes albogularis commonly use cavities in the trees as a microhabitat for egg-laying. Here, we present the first record of this species in Colombia using the tank bromeliad Tillandsia elongata as nesting sites, along with the occurrence of communal egg-laying in that microhabitat.
["Andean disturbed"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Distress calls of Leptodactylus knudseni Heyer, 1972 (Anura, Leptodactylidae)
We describe distress calls of Leptodactylus knudseni recorded in Colombia and Brazil. These calls share similar acoustic features with previous records from other species of L. pentadactylus group.
["vocalisation"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Sorobiellomyces jilinensis gen. et sp. nov. (Polycephalomycetaceae) and Niveomyces pseudoalbus sp. nov. (Cordycipitaceae): Two hyperparasitic fungi associated with Ophiocordyceps
Hyperparasitism in fungi remains poorly understood and documented, despite its ecological significance. In this study, a hyperparasitic fungus associated with Ophiocordyceps jilinensis was collected in Jilin Province, China. A new genus, Sorobiellomyces gen. nov., is proposed to accommodate Sorobiellomyces jilinensis sp. nov., which is parasitic on an entomopathogenic host. Morphological observations and multilocus phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, SSU, LSU, tef1-α, rpb1, and rpb2 sequence data placed S. jilinensis within Polycephalomycetaceae as a distinct lineage. Sorobiellomyces is characterized by a white to yellowish hyphal covering, absence of synnemata, and cylindrical to subulate phialides producing hyaline, ovoid conidia. Ophiocordyceps jilinensis is redescribed and illustrated. In addition, Niveomyces pseudoalbus sp. nov. is introduced based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. These results expand the diversity of Polycephalomycetaceae and Cordycipitaceae and provide new data on fungal hyperparasitism.
["Cordycipitaceae"]

Two new wood-decaying fungal species on Arundo donax from Guangxi, southern China
Wood-decaying fungi are among the most important groups of macrofungi with crucial ecological roles and economic value. In this study, phylogenies were reconstructed using ITS + nLSU genetic loci of Phlebiopsis, and ITS + nLSU + tef1 genetic loci of Sicyoideibasidia. Two new wood-decaying fungal species on Arundo donax, Phlebiopsis arundinacea sp. nov. and Sicyoideibasidia luteocystidia sp. nov. are illustrated and described from Guangxi, southern China. Phlebiopsis arundinacea is characterized by resupinate, membranaceous basidiomata with smooth and grayish brown hymenial surface when fresh, a pseudodimitic hyphal system with simple-septate generative hyphae, the presence of brown skeletocystidia and lamprocystidia, and subcylindrical to oblong-ellipsoid basidiospores. Sicyoideibasidia luteocystidia is characterized by resupinate, membranaceous basidiomata with smooth and white to cream hymenial surface when fresh, a monomitic hyphal system bearing clamp connections on generative hyphae, the presence of fusiform to subulate and slight yellow clavate to capitate cystidia, and ellipsoid, thick-walled basidiospores. The phylogenetic analyses showed that P. arundinacea was closely related to P. crassa, with strong support based on the ITS + nLSU genetic loci. Scopuloides hainanensis was sister to S. yunnanensis and was grouped with other species of Sicyoideibasidia, both relationships strongly supported by ITS + nLSU + tef1 genetic loci. A full description, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results of the two new species are provided here. In addition, Sicyoideibasidia yunnanensis is secondly recorded after its original description, and it was found on Arundo donax from Guangxi Autonomous Region, Southern China.
["Agaricales"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Three new species (Coniochaetales, Eremomycetales, Spiromycetales) isolated from rhizosphere soil of tea plant (Camellia sinensis) in Guizhou, China
Rhizosphere soil, serving as the micro-ecological interface linking plant roots and the surrounding environment, is critical for the tea plant, as it harbors a rich diversity of microbial species that influence nutrient absorption and transformation in plant roots. During a fungal diversity survey of rhizosphere soil from tea plants, 10 fungal strains were isolated from soil samples collected in Guizhou, China. Based on morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogenetic analysis, they were identified and proposed as three new species: Arthrographis guizhouensis sp. nov., Coniochaeta guizhouensis sp. nov., and Spiromyces sinensis sp. nov. In this study, morphological descriptions, illustrations, and molecular phylogenetic analyses of these three new species are presented.
["Coniochaetaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

Four new species of Acarosporaceae (Acarosporales, Lecanoromycetes) with carbonized epihymenial accretions from China
Based on a combination of morphological, chemical, and phylogenetic analyses, we report four new species from China: Acarospora carbonacea, A. rorida, Sarcogyne knudsenii, and S. xizangensis. These four species are characterized by endolithic thalli, apothecia with carbonized epihymenial accretions, an Acarospora-type ascus, and the absence of secondary metabolites. Acarospora carbonacea sometimes can develop a white epilithic ecorticate thallus, whereas such a thallus is not observed in the other three species. Comprehensive descriptions, detailed illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses of the four new species are provided. In addition, a compiled species checklist summarizing the diagnostic features of the eight reported species of Acarosporaceae with carbonized epihymenial accretions in China is presented.
["Carbonized margin"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Building materials and conservation"]

New and noteworthy records of Myriolecis (Lecanoraceae, lichenized Ascomycota) in the arid regions of northwestern China
Myriolecis represents one of the richest genera in species diversity within Lecanoraceae. In this study, approximately 700 specimens collected from high-altitude, temperate continental arid-climate regions in northwestern China, including the Kunlun Mountains, the southern Tianshan Mountains, and the Karakoram Range, were examined. A total of six species were identified, among which three are described as new to science: Myriolecis convexa, M. incisa, and M. kunlunica; and three are newly recorded in China: M. fugiens, M. mons-nivis, and M. wetmorei. All species were identified based on morphological, anatomical, and molecular data. Phylogenetic analyses using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and mitochondrial small subunit (mtSSU) sequences confirm the placement of these species within Myriolecis and support the current species delimitations. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, distribution data, chemical information, and ecological notes are provided for each species, along with comparisons with morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species within the genus. A dichotomous key to 22 species of Myriolecis from China is presented.
["Lecanora dispersa group"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Building materials and conservation"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses revealed Fissuracium ellipsoideum gen. et sp. nov. (Amylocorticiaceae, Amylocorticiales) from southwest China
Wood-inhabiting fungi play a fundamental role in ecosystem processes, particularly in wood degradation and the recycling of organic matter. In the present study, a new wood-inhabiting fungal genus Fissuracium, with its type species, F. ellipsoideum sp. nov., found in southwest China, is proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. The genus Fissuracium is characterized by the resupinate basidiomata with a cracking hymenophore, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, the presence of cystidioles, and ellipsoid, thick-walled basidiospores. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS), nuclear large subunit ribosomal RNA (nLSU), RNA polymerase second largest subunit (rpb2) and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony, and Bayesian Inference. Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses of ITS+nLSU+rpb2+tef1-α showed that Fissuracium forms a monophyletic clade within the family Amylocorticiaceae, which was clustered into the order Amylocorticiales. The phylogenetic analyses indicated that the new genus Fissuracium formed a single lineage. A full description, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses results of the new taxa are provided.
["Fungal classification"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Enzyme-mediated dye degradation"]

Two new species of Ceratostomella and Pararamichloridium (Sordariomycetes) from Guangdong, China, based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence
During a survey of fungal diversity in Guangdong Province, China, two fungal strains were obtained from air contaminants, and three fungal strains were recovered from rock surfaces. Morphological characterization combined with multi-locus phylogenetic analyses based on LSU, ITS, and SSU sequence data indicated that these strains belong to the genera Ceratostomella and Pararamichloridium within the class Sordariomycetes. Phylogenetic results showed that the strains form distinct and well-supported lineages, clearly separated from previously described species. Therefore, they are introduced here as two new species: Ceratostomella guangdongensis sp. nov. and Pararamichloridium purpureum sp. nov. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree are provided. This study highlights rock surfaces and air environments as valuable sources of previously undocumented fungal diversity.
["Air-contaminated fungi"]
["Building materials and conservation", "Indoor Air Quality and Microbial Exposure", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Three new species of Inocybe (Inocybaceae, Agaricales) from Southwestern China
The genus Inocybe (Inocybaceae, Agaricales) is a globally diverse fungal lineage with significant ecological importance. In China, species belonging to Inocybe are widely distributed and exhibit exceptionally high diversity. However, the overall diversity of this genus in the country, particularly in the complex mountainous landscapes of southwestern China, remains severely underestimated. Here, based on morphological evidence and multi-locus (ITS, LSU, and rpb2) phylogenetic analyses, we describe three new species from the area, namely Inocybe subtropicocinnamomea, I. biformis, and I. fulvobasalis. Phylogenetically, I. subtropicocinnamomea is assigned to sect. Inocybe and occurs in subtropical broad-leaved or mixed forests. Inocybe biformis belongs to the smooth-spored temperate boreal clade (STBC) and is uniquely adapted to high-altitude subalpine coniferous habitats above 4000 m. Inocybe fulvobasalis is nested within the I. geophylla group and occurs in temperate broad-leaved and coniferous mixed forests. Detailed morphological descriptions, macroscopic photographs, line drawings, scanning electron micrographs of basidiospores, and taxonomic comparisons with allied taxa are provided for the novel species.
["Basidiomycota"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

New additions to Sympoventuriaceae (Venturiales, Dothideomycetes): three new species from China
Fungi in urban soils are an indispensable component of urban ecosystems, playing a central role in maintaining soil health, promoting nutrient cycling, facilitating plant growth, and safeguarding ecosystem functions. However, taxonomic studies of fungi in urban soils remain extremely limited. During an investigation of culturable fungi from urban soils in China, eight isolates belonging to Sympoventuriaceae were isolated. Although recent taxonomic refinements at the generic level within Sympoventuriaceae have progressed, the taxonomic status of some monotypic genera remains to be stabilized. Based on integrated morphological characterization and multigene phylogenetic analyses of five loci (ITS, LSU, tef1, tub2, and rpb2), three novel species are described and illustrated: Scolecobasidium campestre, Verruconis obovatus, and Veronaeopsis sinensis. This study provides comprehensive morphological descriptions, illustrations, phylogenetic data, and comparisons with closely related species for these novel taxa. This research contributes to fungal data from urban soils and enhances the understanding of the species diversity, taxonomy, and distribution of Sympoventuriaceae.
["Molecular systematics"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Two new wood-decaying fungi, Resupinatus tropicus and Scopuloides hainanensis (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) from Hainan Province, southern China
Wood-decaying fungi are among the most important groups of macrofungi with crucial ecological roles and economic values. In this study, two new wood-decaying fungal species, Resupinatus tropicus and Scopuloides hainanensis, are described from Hainan, southern China, based on the morphological and phylogenetic approaches. Resupinatus tropicus is characterized by sessile, gelatinous, flabelliform or occasional suborbicular basidiomata with lamellate hymenophore, a monomitic hyphal system bearing clamp connections on generative hyphae, the presence of cheilocystidia and pleurocystidia, and cylindrical to oblong-ellipsoid basidiospores. Scopuloides hainanensis is characterized by resupinate, membranaceous basidiomata with grandinioid, white to gray hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with simple-septate generative hyphae, the presence of subulate to fusiform lamprocystidia, and subcylindrical to allantoid basidiospores. The phylogenetic analyses showed that Resupinatus abieticola, R. alboniger, R. americanus, and R. tropicus grouped together to form a distinct and well-supported clade using ITS + nLSU genetic loci. Scopuloides hainanensis was closely related to S. hydnoides and S. yunnanensis with strong support. A full description, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses results of the two new species are provided. In addition, keys to the known species of Resupinatus and Scopuloides in China are presented.
["Agaricales"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Impacts of climatic factors on the global spatiotemporal distribution patterns of Xylobolus subpileatus (Stereaceae, Russulales)
Xylobolus subpileatus, a corticioid fungus associated with white rot in woody angiosperms, represents a valuable resource for pharmaceutical and industrial applications due to its production of antitumor and neuroprotective compounds. It plays a significant ecological role in lignin decomposition and the global carbon cycle. Assessing the impact of climate change on its distribution is essential for germplasm conservation. This study employed the MaxEnt model with CMIP6 climate data to project potential suitable habitats across several periods: the Mid Holocene, the present (1970–2000), and future decades (2030s–2090s). The model performed reliably, with current predictions aligning well with known occurrences. Annual precipitation, precipitation of the driest quarter, and annual mean temperature were identified as the dominant factors shaping its distribution. The total suitable area under current conditions is approximately 2944.21 × 104 km2, categorized into low, moderate, and high suitability zones, with the most highly suitable regions concentrated in North America. Over time, the suitable area showed an initial expansion followed by a contraction. These projections help identify previously unexplored potential habitats and provide a scientific basis for the conservation and sustainable management of this species.
["Climate factor"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Studies in Lepiota (Agaricales, Verrucosporaceae): supporting the merger of Chamaemyces into Lepiota and proposing two new species
The taxonomic status of Chamaemyces as a genus separate from Lepiota has recently been questioned, as its type species has been transferred to Lepiota, implicitly rendering the merger of Chamaemyces as a synonym without a resolved sectional assignment or morphological validation. Multilocus (ITS, LSU, rpb2, mtSSU) phylogenetic analyses robustly place this transferred species within L. sect. Cristatae, and detailed morphological re-evaluation further supports the merger. The recently proposed seven-section classification of Lepiota is largely supported by the phylogenetic framework, which also clarifies the phylogenetic position of L. angusticystidiata. Furthermore, two novel species are described and illustrated: L. pallidovelata (sect. Lepiota), which is characterized by whitish squamules on the pileus with veil remnants, and L. stillispora (sect. Helveolae), distinguished by its droplet-shaped basidiospores. Both the sectional assignment and the proposal of novel species were further independently confirmed by a comprehensive ITS phylogeny of the genus. This study provides conclusive phylogenetic and morphological evidence for the prior merger and expands the known diversity of Lepiota in East Asia with two new taxa.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of five novel Trichoderma (Hypocreaceae, Hypocreales) species isolated from decaying wood in China
A taxonomic study was conducted on Trichoderma species isolated from decaying wood in China. As a result, five novel species, T. flavobritdaniae, T. foliatum, T. fulviclavum, T. liaoningense, and T. parvostromatum, were identified, described in detail, and illustrated based on morphological characteristics and molecular data inferred from sequences of the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (rpb2) and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α). Among the five new species, T. flavobritdaniae, T. fulviclavum, and T. parvostromatum exhibit both asexual and sexual morphs, whereas T. foliatum and T. liaoningense are currently known only from their asexual morphs. Notably, T. fulviclavum produces clavate stromata but does not cluster with clavate-stromatic species traditionally assigned to the Viride clade. Phylogenetic analyses recovered all five taxa as well-supported, distinct lineages assigned to the Longibrachiatum, Harzianum, Psychrophilum, Semiorbis, and Brevicompactum clades. The discovery of these new species from China improves the understanding of Trichoderma diversity and biogeography and provides genetic resources with potential agricultural and industrial applications.
["Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity", "Biofuel production and bioconversion", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A morphological and phylogenetic analysis of dematiaceous hyphomycete strains of Distoseptispora (Distoseptisporaceae, Distoseptisporales) and Kirschsteiniothelia (Kirschsteiniotheliaceae, Pleosporales) in southern China
Dematiaceous hyphomycetes are widely distributed throughout the world. They can live either saprophytically or parasitically and are commonly found growing on dead wood, in soil, and in aquatic environments. During an ongoing survey of saprophytic fungi in multiple southern provinces of China, two Distoseptispora-like and one Kirschsteiniothelia-like strains were isolated from decaying wood. Five barcodes (i.e., ITS, SSU, LSU, RPB2, and TEF1) were amplified and sequenced. Of these markers, ITS, LSU, RPB2, and TEF1 were selected for Distoseptispora, whereas ITS, LSU, and SSU were used for Kirschsteiniothelia. Based on maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) phylogenetic analyses, combined with morphological characteristics, three new species, Distoseptispora linchunlingensis, D. xinganensis, and Kirschsteiniothelia guiyangensis, are proposed. This study provides detailed illustrations, phylogenetic trees, and morphological descriptions to clarify the taxonomic status of the three new species, thereby improving our understanding of the diversity of dematiaceous hyphomycetes in Hainan, Guangxi, and Guizhou provinces, China.
["Dothideomycetes"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Addition of four new wood-inhabiting fungi of Russulales (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) from southwestern China
The species diversity of the families Peniophoraceae and Stereaceae (Russulales) in the high-altitude forests of southwestern China remains poorly explored. In this study, the detailed morphological characteristics and combined two-locus phylogenetic analyses based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (nLSU) regions of nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) revealed four new wood-inhabiting species from southwestern China, belonging to the genera Baltazaria, Scytinostroma, Vararia, and Xylobolus. Their morphology and combined ITS + nLSU dataset showed that three of them grouped within Peniophoraceae, viz., Baltazaria yunnanensis, Scytinostroma sinense, and Vararia dehongensis, whereas Xylobolus yunnanensis clustered within Stereaceae. Descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results of the new taxa are provided. This study expands knowledge of Russulales diversity in China and provides baseline data for the conservation and sustainable utilization of fungal resources.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Two new Inosperma (Inocybaceae) species from the karst forest of Guangxi, China
In this study, we described two new species, Inosperma nonggangense Y.G. Fan, G.F. Mou & S. Li, sp. nov. and Inosperma rufobrunneum Y.G. Fan, G.F. Mou & S. Li, sp. nov. from Guangxi, China. These species were identified based on morphological and multi-locus (ITS, LSU, and rpb2) phylogenetic analyses. Inosperma nonggangense sp. nov. is characterized by yellowish to orange basidiomata, rimulose pileus, crowded lamellae, ovoid to ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 8.7–9.9 × 5.2–6.1 μm, thin-walled, broadly clavate cheilocystidia, and abundant oily hyphae in hymenophoral, pileal, and stipe trama. Inosperma rufobrunneum sp. nov. is characterized by reddish-brown basidiomata at maturity, rimulose to rimose pileus, crowded lamellae, nearly smooth stipes, ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 8.2–9.3 × 4.9–5.4 μm, and thin-walled, clavate cheilocystidia. Phylogenetically, these species belong to the Old World tropical clade 2, formed distinct independent lineages.
["Agaricales"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

Amphibambusa fangchenggangensis sp. nov., Am. yunnanensis sp. nov., and Arecophila viscosa sp. nov. (Xylariales, Cainiaceae) associated with bamboo from southwest China
During an ongoing investigation of bambusicolous fungi within the Xylariomycetidae, three microfungal specimens belonging to the family Cainiaceae were collected from southern China. Based on detailed morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses of combined internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit ribosomal RNA (LSU) sequence data, these collections were identified as two new species of Amphibambusa, namely Amphibambusa fangchenggangensis and Am. yunnanensis, and one new species of Arecophila, Ar. viscosa. Comprehensive descriptions, micrographs, and a phylogenetic tree of the new species are provided, highlighting bamboo forests as a rich reservoir of fungal diversity.
["Ascomycetous fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

Seven new species of the Rhodocybe– Clitopilus clade (Entolomataceae, Agaricales) from Northeast China
The Rhodocybe–Clitopilus clade of Entolomataceae exhibits high diversity in Northeast China, yet taxonomic studies on this group remain limited. Based on a field investigation conducted in this region (Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces), combined with morphological characteristics and multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, nrLSU, rpb2, and tef1-α), seven new species within four genera are proposed: Clitopilus fraxinicola, Lulesia variabilicolor, Rhodocybe jilinensis, R. galericulata, R. eburneolutea, R. subnuciolens, and Rhodophana hongshiensis. Phylogenetic analyses support the independent taxonomic status of these species within their respective genera. Detailed morphological descriptions, color photographs of basidiomata, and illustrations of microstructures are provided. Additionally, a dichotomous key to the known species of the Rhodocybe–Clitopilus clade in Northeast China is presented.
["Entolomataceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Three new species and a new synonym of Conocybe section Ochromarasmius subsection Dumetorae (Bolbitiaceae, Agaricales) from northern China
Based on morphological observations, this study reports the first discovery of species from section Ochromarasmius in China. Using combined internal transcribed spacer (ITS), nuclear large subunit ribosomal DNA (nrLSU), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) sequences, Bayesian and maximum likelihood phylogenies were reconstructed for sect. Ochromarasmius. The resulting phylogenetic trees indicate that subsect. Dumetorae forms a monophyletic group. Subsect. Subdumetorae, in terms of both its definition and phylogenetic placement, is entirely nested within subsect. Dumetorae; therefore, it is treated as a later synonym. Furthermore, subsect. Dumetorae encompasses three new species from northern China: Conocybe verrucosa, C. arenicola, and C. subfusispora. Thus, the total number of species in subsect. Dumetorae is increased to 11 and that in sect. Ochromarasmius to 14. Additionally, based on morphological characteristics, putative phylogenetic positions are discussed for the other subsections and species within sect. Ochromarasmius that currently lack molecular sequence data. The study also provides an identification key for sect. Ochromarasmius subsect. Dumetorae, accompanied by morphological descriptions and line drawings of the new species.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

Morphological and molecular identification of three new bamboo-inhabiting species of Nigrochaete (Auriculariales, Basidiomycota) from China
Nigrochaete is a small fungal genus responsible for bamboo rot. Although recent research has clarified its classification through integrated phylogenetic and morphological analyses, the species diversity of Nigrochaete in the high-altitude forests of Yunnan Province, China, remains insufficiently explored. This study collected five Nigrochaete specimens from decaying bamboo in the Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture and examined their morphological characteristics. Genomic DNA was extracted, and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), nuclear large subunit ribosomal DNA (nrLSU), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1) gene were amplified and sequenced. Phylogenetic relationships within Nigrochaete were inferred using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods. These analyses identified three novel species: N. albobadia, N. ellipsoidea, and N. tenuis. Detailed morphological descriptions, micrographs, and phylogenetic results are presented. This research expands the known species diversity of Auriculariales in China and provides a foundation for the conservation and sustainable utilization of fungal resources.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Four new species of Resupinatus (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) on coniferous trees in Northeast China
Resupinatus species are widely distributed worldwide and are characterized by pleurotoid, cupulate-lamellate, cyphelloid, poroid, and merulioid basidiomata forms. Although numerous species have been described from subtropical to tropical regions in recent years, the species diversity of Resupinatus in temperate-boreal coniferous forests remains poorly investigated. In this study, four new species are described on the basis of morphological observations and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Resupinatus angulatus is characterized by angular isolated pores, fusiform cystidioles, and curved cylindrical to allantoid basidiospores, and it occurs on fallen branches of Larix olgensis and Pinus koraiensis. Resupinatus latemarginatus is distinguished by circular to subcircular isolated pores, a wide sterile margin, fusiform cystidioles, ellipsoid basidiospores, and growth on fallen branches of Abies nephrolepis and P. koraiensis. Resupinatus sinoapplicatus is characterized by sessile basidiomata with a lamellate hymenophore, globose basidiospores, and growth on fallen branches of P. koraiensis. Resupinatus sinuosus is recognized by its sinuous to irregular isolated pores, fusiform cystidioles, and ellipsoid basidiospores, and it occurs on rotten wood of A. nephrolepis. This study expands knowledge of wood-decaying fungal diversity associated with temperate-boreal coniferous trees and highlights that fungal species diversity in this region remains insufficiently explored, warranting further investigation.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal two new species of Pleurocordyceps luopingensis sp. nov. (Polycephalomycetaceae) and Pseudometarhizium cangyuanense sp. nov. (Clavicipitaceae) from Yunnan, southwestern China
Entomopathogenic fungi are species-rich, highly diverse, and widely distributed worldwide. The majority of entomopathogenic fungi belong to the families Clavicipitaceae, Cordycipitaceae, Ophiocordycipitaceae, and Polycephalomycetaceae. However, species of Polycephalomycetaceae and Clavicipitaceae remain relatively underexplored in China. This study describes the discovery of two novel fungal species, namely Pleurocordyceps luopingensis sp. nov. and Pseudometarhizium cangyuanense sp. nov., during field surveys conducted in Yunnan Province, China. The former belongs to the family Polycephalomycetaceae, and the latter to the family Clavicipitaceae. Both taxa are formally described herein. Detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations are provided, and family-level phylogenies are inferred based on a combined six-locus gene sequence dataset (nrSSU, ITS, nrLSU, tef1-α, rpb1, and rpb2), thereby confirming the taxonomic placement of the new species. These findings not only enrich the known diversity of entomopathogenic fungi in China but also provide important new evidence for clarifying the phylogenetic relationships among genera and species within Polycephalomycetaceae and Clavicipitaceae, further revealing the unique fungal diversity associated with the special habitats of the Yunnan region.
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Identification of Cytospora (Cytosporaceae, Diaporthales) species associated with poplar and willow canker diseases in Xizang, China
Cytospora is a species-rich and globally distributed genus in Diaporthales, characterized by hyaline, aseptate, and allantoid ascospores and conidia. Many species in this genus are recognized as important plant pathogens that cause branch cankers on a wide range of hosts. Recent taxonomic revisions, integrating morphological and molecular phylogenetic data, have clarified the generic limits of Cytospora, resulting in the recognition of three groups and eight types in the teleomorph and three groups and thirteen types in the anamorph, as well as ten species complexes. In this study, canker diseases on Populus szechuanica var. tibetica and Salix lasiogyne were investigated in Xizang, China. Species identification was conducted using a polyphasic approach combining morphological characteristics and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, act, rpb2, tef1, and tub2 sequences. Consequently, two new species, Cytospora chayuensis from the C. leucostoma species complex and C. sinopopuli from the C. kantschavelii species complex, are introduced herein. This study contributes to knowledge of Cytospora species diversity and provides foundational data for the management of poplar and willow canker diseases.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance", "Bioenergy crop production and management"]

Three new species of Helicogloea (Phleogenaceae, Atractiellales) from South China
Three new species of Helicogloea from south China, Helicogloea candida, H. conidiata and H. sinosebacea, are illustrated and described, based on morphological characteristics and multigene phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) and the large subunit of the nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (nLSU). Helicogloea candida is characterised by resupinate, gelatinous, hyaline to whitish, first pustulate to slightly cerebriform when fresh and ellipsoid to oblong ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 8.9–13.6 × 4.4–8.9 μm; H. conidiata is characterised by the presence of a sporodochial asexual morph and subglobose to ellipsoid conidia measuring 3.6–4.5 × 2.9–3.8 µm; H. sinosebacea is characterised by resupinate, gelatinous, whitish or greyish basidiomes when fresh and subglobose to broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 7–10 × 4.8–7.3 μm. The differences amongst the new species and their morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species are discussed.
["New taxa"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two new Lactarius species from Laos (Basidiomycota, Russulales)
Two new species of milkcaps, Lactarius megaplinthogalus and L. rosascens, are described from montane forests in Xieng Khouang Province, northern Laos, Southeast Asia. Both species were collected in mixed forests dominated by Fagaceae and Pinaceae and are documented using detailed macro- and micromorphological observations in combination with ITS rDNA sequence data. Lactarius megaplinthogalus is distinguished by its large, stout, dark brown to blackish basidiocarps, very distant lamellae, sticky white latex that stains the lamellae pinkish to blackish, and thick-walled basidia. Lactarius rosascens is recognized by its yellow to honey-colored, scrobiculate pileus, abundant white latex rapidly turning bright pink to wine-red and intensely staining the lamellae, and a well-developed trichodermal pileipellis. Phylogenetic analyses support their recognition as distinct species and place the first species in L. subg. Plinthogalus (section Plinthogalus) and the latter one in L. subg. Lactarius (unclassified at the sectional level). These findings highlight the exceptional and still underexplored diversity of milkcaps in Laos (and more generally in Southeast Asia) and underline the importance of continued mycological surveys and integrative taxonomic approaches in the region.
["Fagaceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Discovery of two new Cystobasidiaceae species (Cystobasidiales, Cystobasidiomycetes) on phylloplane from western China
The fungal family Cystobasidiaceae, which includes the genera Begerowomyces, Cystobasidium, Cystastrum, Halobasidium, Robertozyma, and Queiroziella, comprises species that are predominantly associated with plants in tropical to cold regions. However, members of the genera Queiroziella and Robertozyma remain poorly studied. In the present study, fungal species were identified using a polyphasic approach combining phenotypic characterization and molecular phylogenetic analyses based on the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, and the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB2) gene. As a result, two novel species, Queiroziella pini sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33638T) and Robertozyma xinjiangensis sp. nov. (holotype GDMCC 2.525T), are proposed and described herein. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses of the novel taxa are provided, and comparisons with closely related species are presented. This study expands the known diversity of the family Cystobasidiaceae in China and provides a basis for future taxonomic and ecological investigations on this family.
["Basidiomycetous yeast"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Four Sordariomycetes freshwater hyphomycetes from the Chishui River Basin in Guizhou Province, China
During a survey investigating fungal diversity in the Chishui River Basin, Guizhou Province, China, four fungal specimens were collected from submerged wood in freshwater habitats. Based on detailed morphological observations and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses, two novel species, Chloridium chishuiensis and Xylolentia chishuiensis, are herein described and illustrated in detail. Chloridium chishuiensis is phylogenetically closely related to C. crousii, C. kirkii, C. tropicale, and C. xishuangbannaense but differs from these taxa by producing multiple conidiogenous loci and possessing longer conidiophores. Xylolentia chishuiensis forms a sister lineage to X. oblongispora and is distinguished by its smaller, ellipsoid to subglobose conidia. Additionally, a new host record of Rhamphoriopsis aquimicrospora is reported, accompanied by a new geographical record of Xylolentia yibinensis. These findings enriched the fungal diversity of the Chishui River Basin.
["Chaetosphaeriaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Infectious Diseases and Mycology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Morphological and molecular identification of two new wood-inhabiting species (Russulales, Basidiomycota) from China
Wood-inhabiting fungi represent a highly diverse group of microorganisms that play essential roles in forest ecosystems. However, the species diversity of wood-inhabiting fungal taxa in the order Russulales has not been systematically documented in the high-altitude forests of Yunnan Province, China. In the present study, the detailed morphological characteristics and combined multi-locus phylogeny of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nrLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) revealed two new species in Russulales, viz., Gloeopeniophorella luteola and Scytinostroma tenuissimum. Gloeopeniophorella luteola is characterized by its membranaceous, thin basidiomata with a smooth hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with simple septa, generative hyphae, and gloeocystidia, and thick-walled basidiospores measuring 4–4.9 × 3.8–4.4 µm. Scytinostroma tenuissimum is characterized by its soft membranaceous basidiomata with a cream to pale pink hymenial surface, a dimitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 10.1–13.2 × 7.1–9.3 µm. Phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated ITS + nLSU dataset demonstrated that the two new species grouped within the order Russulales, in which G. luteola grouped into the family Russulaceae, while S. tenuissimum grouped into the family Peniophoraceae, and G. luteola was sister to G. bambusicola, and S. tenuissimum grouped together with S. acystidiatum and S. bambusinum. Comprehensive descriptions, micrographs, and phylogenetic analyses of the two new species are provided.
["Fungal diversity"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Two new soil-inhabiting fungi, Malbranchea cavernicola (Onygenales, Malbrancheaceae) and Talaromyces pangmaphaensis (Eurotiales, Trichocomaceae), from a cave in northern Thailand
Caves are globally recognised as reservoirs of high fungal diversity, with cave soils harbouring many previously underexplored taxa. Fungal research in Thailand has been conducted for more than two decades; however, studies focusing on fungal diversity in cave environments remain limited. In the present study, six fungal strains were isolated from soil samples collected from the prehistoric Phi Man Long Long Rak Cave located in Pang Mapha District, Mae Hong Son Province, northern Thailand. These strains were identified, based on morphological characteristics and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses using sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), the nuclear ribosomal large subunit (LSU), β-tubulin (BenA), calmodulin (CaM) and the RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2). Four strains representing two new species, Malbranchea cavernicola and Talaromyces pangmaphaensis, are described herein. In addition, two strains identified as Malbranchea gymnoascoides are reported for the first time from soil and represent a new geographical record in Thailand. Full descriptions, illustrations and a phylogenetic tree showing the phylogenetic positions of the cave fungi identified in this study are provided.
["Cave fungi"]
["Building materials and conservation", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Inocybaceae of Pakistan: a checklist and description of two novel Inocybe species using morphological and multi-locus phylogenetic evidence
The family Inocybaceae (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) comprises ecologically important ectomycorrhizal fungi widely distributed across temperate and tropical forests. Pakistan hosts a diverse representation of this family, particularly species of the genus Inocybe. This study presents a comprehensive checklist of members of the family Inocybaceae reported from Pakistan. Based on the latest published data, the country contains 55 species of Inocybaceae, including 28 of the genus Inocybe, six of Inosperma, ten of Mallocybe, and 11 of Pseudosperma, while no records of Auritella, Nothocybe, or Tubariomyces have been documented in the country to date. Additionally, two new species, Inocybe khalidii and Inocybe floribundae, are described herein based on integrated morphological and multigene phylogenetic analyses. Phylogenetically, I. khalidii forms a distinct and strongly supported clade within the genus, confirming its relationship to allopatric species from Mexico, Japan, and the USA, while I. floribundae forms a well-supported clade within the Xanthomelas group, sister to European I. corsica and I. diabolica. Basidiomata of I. khalidii are differentially characterized by a vivid orange-brown subglabrous pileus, large and broadly ellipsoid to ellipsoid basidiospores, and a near absence of caulocystidia. Basidiomata of I. floribundae are morphologically distinct from their phylogenetic relatives by the beige to brown, distinctly scaly pileus, bulbous but weakly marginate stipe, apically restricted caulocystidia, utriform-obclavate hymenial cystidia, and subisodiametric, bluntly nodulose basidiospores. Morphological descriptions, illustrations, micrographs, and sequences of ITS+LSU- and tef1-based phylogenetic analyses are presented in this article with reference to the newly described species.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals novel species (Ascomycota) and new records from the Kunming World Horticultural Expo Garden in Yunnan, China
Fungi represent a kingdom of life with vast, undiscovered diversity. In the unique man-made ecosystem of the Kunming World Horticultural Expo Garden, a site with remarkable plant diversity, four fungal strains were isolated from diseased branches of two widely cultivated plants, Olea europaea (olive) and Nandina domestica. Through a comprehensive analysis integrating morphological characteristics and multi-locus phylogenetic data (including LSU, SSU, ITS, rpb2, tef1-α, and tub2 sequences), we identified two new species: Oedohysterium oleae and Melomastia kunmingensis, both of which are phylogenetically and morphologically distinct from known species. Furthermore, we report M. kevinhydei as a new host record on O. europaea, suggesting a broader host range for this species, and, for the first time, document the sexual morph of the type species Parapyrenochaeta protearum, providing crucial morphological insights for this genus, previously known only in its asexual state. These findings underscore the immense value of unique horticultural environments as reservoirs of fungal diversity.
["Four taxa"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases"]

Morphology and molecular phylogeny reveal new species of Sporocadus (Sporocadaceae, Amphisphaeriales) in Xizang, China
Sporocadus is the type genus of Sporocadaceae and is phylogenetically closely related to Seimatosporium. Traditionally, these two genera were distinguished by the presence or absence of conidial appendages; however, this morphological character is sometimes plastic and unstable. Previous studies have also shown that internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (LSU) sequence data are insufficient for their resolution. In this study, fungal specimens were collected from branches of two rosaceous hosts, Prunus cerasifera and Rosa chinensis, in Xizang, China. Based on morphological examination and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses of a combined ITS, LSU, rpb2, tef1, and tub2 dataset, two new species are revealed and described herein as Sp. bomiensis and Sp. prunicola spp. nov. Furthermore, Seimatosporium parvum, which possesses distinct conidial appendages, is transferred to Sporocadus as Sp. parvus comb. nov. based on strong molecular evidence. Given the limited resolution of ITS and LSU and the instability of conidial appendages, we suggest that five-loci datasets including all accepted species are essential for accurate identification within the Sporocadus–Seimatosporium complex. This study not only expands the species diversity of Sporocadus in high-altitude regions but also provides new insights into the taxonomy and identification of pestalotioid fungi.
["Amphisphaeriales"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

New additions to Omphalotaceae (Agaricales, Basidiomycota): two new rhizomorph-forming species from China
Two new rhizomorph-forming species within the family Omphalotaceae, Gymnopus fuscostipes sp. nov. and Pseudomarasmius brunneodiscus sp. nov., are proposed based on morpho-molecular evidence. Both species are characterized by marasmioid basidiomata, brownish pileus, and black rhizomorphs. Detailed morphological descriptions, color photos, and illustrations are presented herein, as well as comparisons with closely related species.
["Gymnopus sect. Androsacei"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

A polyphasic study of Hypoxylaceae (Xylariales, Ascomycota) in Iran: new species and records from Hyrcanian forests
In a survey of pyrenomycetes in the north of Iran, a total of 20 specimens were collected and characterized via an integrative approach. Sequences derived from the ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tub2 loci were amplified, sequenced, and analyzed in a molecular phylogenetic framework using maximum likelihood and maximum parsimony analyses. Additional morphological and chemotaxonomic evidence analyzed in tandem revealed two new species, which we coined Hypoxylon hyrcanense sp. nov. and H. pseudoinvestiens sp. nov., as well as four new records for Iran, namely Hypomontagnella submonticulosa, Hypoxylon crocopeplum, H. larissae, and H. ticinense. We further discuss recent additions to Hypoxylon and report the anamorph of H. larissae for the first time. All species are illustrated, described, and discussed.
["Chemotaxonomy"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Two new species and four new host records of Fusarium species (Nectriaceae, Hypocreales) associated with Semanotus bifasciatus causing Taxodium hybrid ‘Zhongshanshan’ dieback
Semanotus bifasciatus (Motschulsky) (Cerambycidae, Coleoptera) is a quarantine wood-boring pest that severely damages cypress trees in China and poses a significant threat to forest ecological security. However, the knowledge of Fusarium species associated with this beetle is inadequate in China. In this study, 16 strains of Fusarium were isolated from beetle galleries in infected Taxodium hybrid ‘Zhongshanshan’ samples. Morphological and molecular multi-locus analyses, based on internal transcribed spacer region of the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF-1α), RNA polymerase largest subunit (RPB1) and RNA polymerase second largest subunit (RPB2) genes, identified four new host records species (F. annulatum, F. fujikuroi, F. ipomoeae and F. oblongum) and two new species (F. semanoti sp. nov. and F. taxodii sp. nov.) are introduced in the present study, with pathogenicity tests confirming all six species could cause T. hybrid ‘Zhongshanshan’ dieback. This study provides the first documentation of Fusarium diversity associated with S. bifasciatus in China, offering new perspectives for understanding the beetle-fungus symbiotic system and their synergistic pathogenicity to T. hybrid ‘Zhongshanshan’.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses revealed Cystidichaete alba gen. et sp. nov. (Phanerochaetaceae, Polyporales) from Southwest China
Wood-inhabiting fungi are a remarkably diverse group that play a fundamental role in ecosystem processes, particularly in wood degradation and the recycling of organic matter. As pivotal contributors to the intricate balance of forest ecosystems, these fungi are renowned as “key players” for their enzymatic prowess and products, which effectively breaks down woody components such as lignin, cellulose, and hemicelluloses. In the present study, a new wood-inhabiting fungal genus Cystidichaete, with its type species C. alba, collected from southwest China, is proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. The new genus Cystidichaete is characterized by the resupinate basidiomata with a smooth hymenophore, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, abundant lamprocystidia, clavate basidia, and ellipsoid basidiospores. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS), nuclear large subunit ribosomal RNA (nLSU), RNA polymerase second largest subunit (rpb2) and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference. Multi-locus phylogenetic analysis of ITS+nLSU+rpb2+tef1-α showed that Cystidichaete forms a monophyletic clade within the family Phanerochaetaceae (Polyporales), in which the new genus was grouped closely to Stereophlebia and Gelatinofungus.
["Fungal classification"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Morphological and phylogenetic characterization of three new Cortinarius (Cortinariaceae, Agaricales) species in Yunnan, China
Through comprehensive morphological and phylogenetic investigations (ITS and nrLSU), we have delineated three novel species within Cortinarius, as derived from specimens collected in Yunnan Province, China. Cortinarius mucobrunneus is distinguished by its viscid basidiomata, dark brown pileus adorned with translucent stripes, cinnamon to brown lamellae, white stipe leaving a cinnamon ring on the upper part, and elliptical to amygdaliform, strongly verrucose basidiospores measuring 13.5–16 × 8–10 μm. Cortinarius rugosiviscidus is characterized by sticky basidiomata, a light brown pileus with wrinkled surface, brown lamellae, light brown stipe, and elliptical to amygdaliform, moderately verrucose basidiospores measuring 11.5–15 × 7.5–9.5 μm. Cortinarius saloroides is characterized by its violet pileus with fine fibrous scales, mauve to light brown lamellae, bluish violet stipe leaving a light brown ring on the upper part, and subspherical, broadly elliptical to elliptical, moderately verrucose basidiospores measuring 7–8.5 × 5.5–6.5 μm. Differences between the new species and morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species are discussed.
["Silymarin and Mushroom Poisoning", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Multi-gene phylogeny and morphological evidence reveal two novel species and two new records of Acrogenospora (Minutisphaerales, Acrogenosporaceae) from aquatic habitats in mainland China
Freshwater fungi are characterized by their high species diversity and perform vital ecological roles. During our survey of Chinese aquatic microfungal diversity, four fungal strains were isolated from freshwater environments in Jiangxi and Guizhou Provinces, China. Through comprehensive morphological assessment and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses based on combined ITS, LSU, SSU, RPB2, and TEF1-α sequences, two new species, Acrogenospora bambusae and A. lignicola, were introduced. In addition, two previously described species, A. taiwanica and A. thailandica, originally described from China (Taiwan), and Thailand, respectively, are newly reported from mainland China. This study provides detailed morphological descriptions, photographic illustrations, and phylogenetic placements for each taxonomic novelty.
["Acrogenospora"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

Morpho-molecular characterization reveals three Cortinarius subgenus Dermocybe species from southwest China (Agaricales, Cortinariaceae)
Cortinarius stands as the most extensive and morphologically distinctive genus within the Cortinariaceae. During our comprehensive surveys of macrofungi in southwestern China, we have collected mushroom specimens resembling Cortinarius and identified them as three new species: Cortinarius orienticroceus, C. orientisanguineus, and C. subolivaceoluteus, based on morphology and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses using maximum likelihood/Bayesian inference. Cortinarius orienticroceus is notable for its pileus, which is dark brown at the center and gradually lightens to a pale yellow at the edges; lamellae range from pale yellow to bright yellow, while the stalk is initially silky and shiny, later turning darker with a slight olive tint as it matures. Cortinarius orientisanguineus, on the other hand, features a dry, hemispherical pileus with noticeable fibrous scales, lamellae are reddish-brown, and the veil disappears over time, leaving a reddish-brown ring on the upper to middle part of the stalk. In contrast, Cortinarius subolivaceoluteus presents a pileus that starts papillate and flattens as it matures; the stalk is cinnamon-colored on the upper part, with tawny fibrils and patches below, and has a slightly bulbous base; the veil is cinnamon-colored and vanishes over time. Morphological illustrations and comprehensive morphological descriptions, along with phylogenetic relationships of other species within subg. Dermocybe of the three new Cortinarius species are provided. This research expands the taxonomic framework of subgenus Dermocybe through contemporary systematic approaches and emphasizes the substantial contribution of Chinese mycological collections to our understanding of this fungal group.
["Cortinariaceae"]
["Silymarin and Mushroom Poisoning", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Three new species of Picipes (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from China
Three new wood-inhabiting fungi viz. Picipes abieticola, P. brevisporus and P. sinodictyopus spp. nov. are proposed, based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Picipes abieticola is characterised by eccentrically stipitate basidiomata with fan-shaped pilei, shining pore surface, pores 5–7 per mm and the presence of irregular crystals amongst hyphae, basidiospores measuring 7.5–9.3 × 2.8–3.5 µm and growth on Abies fabri. The species Picipes brevisporus is characterised by small basidiomata having smaller pores (7–9 per mm), the presence of subulate cystidioles, short oblong ellipsoid basidiospores (3.8–5.7 × 2.3–3.1 µm) and growth on Miscanthus. The taxa Picipes sinodictyopus are characterised by laterally stipitate basidiomata having auricular to fan-shaped pilei with olivaceous buff pore surface, angular pores and cylindrical basidiospores measuring 5.8–7.3 × 2.3–2.8 µm. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS + nLSU dataset highlighted the placement of the three new species in the genus Picipes (Polyporaceae, Polyporales) using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods. Phylogenetically related and morphologically similar species to these three new species are discussed.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Building materials and conservation"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny reveal new species of Volvariella (Volvariellaceae, Agaricales) and Volvopluteus (Pluteaceae, Agaricales) from eastern India
Volvariella areolavolvata sp. nov. and Volvopluteus fibrillobrunneus sp. nov. are introduced and illustrated from West Bengal, eastern India, based on detailed morphological observations and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Morphologically, V. areolavolvata is distinguished by its large-sized basidiomata with a pileus covered by conspicuous silky fibrils, becoming slightly yellowish at the center with age; the presence of a volva with a distinctive, externally areolate cracked surface; oval to ellipsoid basidiospores with a mean value of 7.75 × 4.91 μm; mostly lageniform cheilocystidia, 63–131 × 21–37 μm; and broadly clavate pleurocystidia with a rounded apex, 44–56 × 13–17 µm. Volvopluteus fibrillobrunneus is characterized by a pileus with light brown to greyish-brown fibrils; ellipsoid to elongate basidiospores (mean 9.85 × 6.30 μm); mostly clavate cheilocystidia measuring 34–72 × 15–29 μm; and rostrate pleurocystidia with prominent apical appendages, 53–75 × 14–21 µm. Phylogenetic analyses based on combined nrITS and nrLSU sequence data support the recognition of both taxa as distinct species within Volvariella and Volvopluteus, respectively, forming well-supported clades clearly separated from their closest species. Detailed morphological descriptions, field photographs of the collected basidiomata, comparisons with morphologically similar taxa, and phylogenetic analyses based on the combined nrITS and nrLSU sequence datasets are provided.

Two new species of Entoloma subgenus Cyanula (E. alpigenum and E. muscicola) from montane forests of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan (Agaricales, Entolomataceae)
Two new species of genus Entoloma in subgenus Cyanula, Entoloma alpigenum and Entoloma muscicola are described from the mixed forests of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Entoloma muscicola is characterized by a cuspidate, deep brown pileus with wavy margins, distant pale yellow lamellae, weakly angled mono-gutulate basidiospores, predominantly two-spored basidia, and clavate cheilocystidia with wavy apical caps. In contrast, Entoloma alpigenum is characterized by a light brown, slightly squamulose pileus, pale yellowish lamellae, larger 5–7 angled mono-gutulate basidiospores and cylindrical to flexuose cheilocystidia. Both species are ecologically associated with high-altitude mixed forests. Phylogenetic analyses have placed these new species in subgenus Cyanula, forming sister clades within section Griseocyanea, which support their distinct taxonomic status. Illustrated descriptions of their macro- and microscopic features and phylogenetic analyses, based on nrITS, nrLSU, mtSSU and rpb2 regions are provided.
["Entolomataceae"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of saprobic Sordariomycetes (Ascomycota) from woody litter in terrestrial ecosystems of Yunnan Province, China
As part of our investigation into the diversity of woody litter fungi in Yunnan Province, China, we identified ten microfungal taxa associated with dead woody litter in terrestrial habitats. Based on detailed morphological comparisons and multigene phylogenetic analyses using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference, including non-translated loci and protein-coding regions, we identified three taxa as new species and seven collections as new records within Sordariomycetes. Three novel species are Barrmaelia nixiensis, Biscogniauxia xishuangbannaensis, Neolinocarpon lincangense, while Jattaea algeriensis, Lasiosphaeris hispida, Neoleptosporella camporesiana, Planisphaeria karsti, P. reniformispora, Phaeoacremonium camporesii and Thyridium tiliae represent new host records. Comprehensive morphological descriptions and illustrations are provided to support the identification and classification of these taxa.
["3 new species"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two mycenoid species of Leucoinocybe (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) from southern China
Two new species of Leucoinocybe from southern China are described, illustrated, and compared with phenotypically similar and phylogenetically related species. Morphologically, L. danxiashanensis sp. nov. is characterized by its mycenoid basidiomata, light brown to brownish orange pileus with faintly yellow striations, decurrent lamellae, abundant lageniform to obclavate and thin-walled cystidia on pileus and stipe surface, and broadly ellipsoid to subamygdaliform basidiospores; and L. haizhuensis sp. nov. is characterized by its mycenoid basidiomata, brown, light brown to yellowish white pileus with pubescent, 2-spored basidia, ovoid, diverse cheilocystidia and elliptical to broadly elliptical basidiospores. Phylogenetic analyses based on sequences of the nuclear ribosomal large subunit (nrLSU) and the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) supported them as two distinct species of Leucoinocybe.
["Mycenoid"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two new entomopathogenic fungi within the genus Ophiocordyceps (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales)
This study reports on two new species, Ophiocordyceps simaoensis and O. guishanensis, from Yunnan Province, Southwestern China. These two species are introduced based on the morphological comparisons and phylogenetic evidence of a multigene dataset (nrSSU, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2). Phylogenetic analyses reveal that O. simaoensis is closely related to O. longistipes and O. fusiformis, whereas O. guishanensis shares a close relationship with O. acicularis and O. liaoningensis. Morphologically, O. simaoensis can be distinguished from its phylogenetically close relatives by its smaller, immersed perithecia, shorter asci and ascospores. Ophiocordyceps guishanensis differs from O. acicularis and O. liaoningensis by its smaller asci.
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Fungi associated with seagrass Enhalus acoroides in Puttalam Lagoon, Sri Lanka: Discovery of two new species (Neodevriesia zeylanica and Neooccultibambusa zeylanica (Dothideomycetes)) and taxonomic validation of Halophilomyces (Sordariomycetes)
During our ongoing research on seagrass-associated fungi in Kalpitiya, Puttalam Lagoon, Sri Lanka, ten endophytic fungal strains have been isolated from healthy leaves, roots, and rhizomes of Enhalus acoroides. A surface sterilization method was used for the isolation of fungi. Pure cultures obtained were induced to sporulate. Phylogenetic analyses based on multi-gene regions (ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb2, and tef1-α) were carried out for species identification. Neodevriesia zeylanica Wijayaw. et al. and Neooccultibambusa zeylanica Wijayaw. et al. are introduced as novel species, along with two new country and host records, i.e., Neodevriesia saximollicula D.S.Paiva and Thalassodendromyces purpureus Vohník & Réblová. Two strains have been confirmed as Halophilomyces hongkongensis Xiao Wang et al. (nom. invalid), the type species of Halophilomyces Xiao Wang et al. (nom. invalid). Halophilomyces hongkongensis (based on the newly isolated strains) has been validated and provided with a new name, Halophilomyces zeylanica Wijayaw. et al., along with the designation of a new holotype and ex-type, respectively.
["Endophytes"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis"]

Morpho-molecular approach reveals three novel endophytic fungi in Polyschema (Pleosporales, Latoruaceae) associated with roots of baobab trees in Yunnan, China
Endophytic fungi associated with roots of the baobab tree (Adansonia digitata L.) remain poorly documented in terms of species diversity worldwide. During an ongoing fungal survey in the dry-hot valleys of Honghe (Yunnan Province, China), five endophytic fungal strains were isolated from healthy roots of A. digitata. Based on multi-locus phylogenetic analyses of four loci (ITS, LSU, SSU, and rpb2), combined with morphological observations, all five strains were identified as belonging to the genus Polyschema. Hence, three novel species are introduced in the present study, namely P. adansoniae-digitatae, P. hongheense, and P. radicicola. This study constitutes the first record of Polyschema from mainland China. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic placements of the three new species are provided. Additionally, the species diversity, morphology, and phylogeny of Polyschema are updated and discussed. These findings enrich knowledge of endophytic fungal diversity associated with baobab in China and provide insights into the taxonomy and diversity of Polyschema. Furthermore, an updated discussion on the ecology and genera within the family Latoruaceae is presented.
["Adansonia digitata"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of the epiphytic sooty molds in family Metacapnodiaceae (class Eurotiomycetes, subclass Chaetothyriomycetidae)
Metacapnodiaceae is one of several sooty mold families in Ascomycota. Its species grow as dense, black, spongy mats on the surfaces of plant leaves and twigs, typically in association with insect honeydew or plant leachates. Studying Metacapnodiaceae has been challenging because multiple species intermingle in the same small patches of mycelium, and they are difficult to culture or to distinguish by their morphology. Prior to this research, DNA sequences were available for only two species in the family. Here, with the goal of better characterizing species diversity, we determined complete or partial DNA sequence barcodes for ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions for 16 collections of Metacapnodium using a Metacapnodium-specific primer, followed by phylogenetic and morphological analyses. Tapering, moniliform hyphae, cells wider than long, and a distinctive phialidic asexual state were good predictors of membership in a well-supported Metacapnodium clade. Sequences from the 16 collections represent 9 named species of Metacapnodium. Barcoded species include: M. stanhughesii sp. nov., M. vancouverensis, sp. nov. and M. australis comb. nov. Based on morphological characters, we propose M. atro-olivaceus comb. nov., M. novae-zelandiae comb. nov., and M. pacificus comb. nov. We provide a key to identification of 15 species studied. To investigate the deeper phylogenetic relationships of Metacapnodiaceae, we sequenced partial nuclear ribosomal large subunit (LSU) gene regions from five specimens and elongation factor 1-alpha (ef1-α) gene regions from two specimens. In our analysis of concatenated sequences from ribosomal DNA, ef1-α, and from rpb2, the gene encoding the 2nd largest subunit of RNA polymerase II protein, Metacapnodium appeared within the subclass Chaetothyriomycetidae, class Eurotiomycetes with strong support, and as the sister group to Pleostigmataceae but without strong statistical support. Our study adds Metacapnodiaceae to the clades of enigmatic, slow growing fungi of harsh environments with lichenized, lichenicolous, resinicolous and rock-inhabiting niches. Resolving family relationships is relevant to age estimates of Ascomycota, as fossilized Metacapnodium specimens in amber potentially contribute to calibration of divergence times.
["Capnodiales"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Two novel species of Neohelicomyces (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales) from Guizhou Province, China
During a survey of microfungal diversity in Guizhou Province, southwestern China, four helicosporous taxa were collected and isolated from decaying wood in both freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Phylogenetic analyses based on LSU, ITS, tef1-α, and rpb2 sequences, along with morphological assessments, revealed two new species: Neohelicomyces saprobicus and N. uniramulosus. Morphologically, Neohelicomyces saprobicus differs from its close relative N. sexualis by its asexual mode of reproduction, in contrast to the sexual reproduction observed in N. sexualis. Neohelicomyces uniramulosus is distinguished from its close relative N. helicosporus and N. hyalosporus by its conidiophores. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and taxonomic notes are provided. In addition, the present study summarizes the main morphological characteristics, host associations, and geographical distributions of Neohelicomyces.
["2 new taxa"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Two new species of the genus Conocybe (Agaricales, Bolbitiaceae) from Punjab, Pakistan
In this study, two new species of genus Conocybe are described, based on morpho-anatomical and phylogenetic analyses of ITS and LSU (28S) regions. According to phylogenetic analyses, Conocybe kotadduensis & C. safariensis make a separate clade with a strong bootstrap value from the closest species of the genus Conocybe, sect. Pilosellae. Conocybe kotadduensis is closest to C. nitrophila, while C. safariensis is closer to C. ceracea. Conocybe kotadduensis differs from C. nitrophila due to pale yellow, parabolic pileus with velvety surface, scabrous surface of stipe, amygdaliform to ovoid, yellowish basidiospores, broad, fusiform, cylindrical cells of lecythiform cheilocystidia, sphero-pedunculate to obovoid, globose to sub-globose pileipellis elements. Conocybe safariensis can be distinguished from C. ceracea in having a conical to convex pileus, orange to light gray stipe, fusiform to lacrymoid basidiospores, obovoid to subglobose basidia, ellipsoid to globose cheilocystidia, and absence of pleurocystidia.
["Basidiomycetes"]

Three new species of Gnomoniopsis and Ternstroemiomyces (Diaporthales, Sordariomycetes) from China
Cinnamomum cassia is a renowned medicinal and aromatic plant with significant economic importance and broad pharmacological applications. This study investigates the taxonomy and diversity of endophytic fungi belonging to the order Diaporthales, isolated from this plant in Guangdong Province, China. A total of six isolates were obtained from healthy leaves. These isolates were examined using morphological characteristics and multilocus phylogenetic analyses based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large subunit ribosomal RNA gene (LSU), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1). Phylogenetic reconstructions inferred from maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference, together with morphological evidence, revealed that the isolates represent three distinct and previously undescribed species, which are herein described as Gnomoniopsis luodingensis sp. nov. (Gnomoniaceae), Ternstroemiomyces cinnamomi sp. nov., and Ternstroemiomyces zhaoqingensis sp. nov. (Ternstroemiomycetaceae). These findings expand the known host range of endophytic fungi and provide essential taxonomic data for the fungal community associated with this economically important medicinal plant.
["Endophytic fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases"]

Phylogeny, divergence time and historical biogeography of Hyphoderma (Hyphodermataceae, Polyporales): Introducing five new species from China
Species of Hyphoderma are important wood-inhabiting fungi and play a crucial role in forest ecosystems. Although species diversity within this genus has been increasingly documented in recent years, studies on its origin, evolutionary history, and biogeography remain limited. In this study, we compiled a global dataset of Hyphoderma sequences and reconstructed an updated phylogeny, divergence times, and biogeographic history of the genus Hyphoderma based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and nuclear large ribosomal subunit (nLSU) sequences. In addition, integrated morphological and phylogenetic analyses revealed five new Hyphoderma species. Molecular clock estimates indicated that the ancestor of Hyphoderma likely originated in the Cretaceous, with a mean stem age of 117.76 Mya (95% HPD = 92.38–147.74 Mya). Biogeographic reconstruction further suggested that Asia is the most probable ancestral area of Hyphoderma species. This study provides the first comprehensive inference of divergence times, biogeography, and speciation patterns within Hyphoderma.
["Biogeographic patterns"]

Two novel species of sooty mould fungi (Capnodiales, Dothideomycetes) from China
Conidiocarpus and Polychaeton are genera of sooty mould fungi (Capnodiales, Dothideomycetes) that grow epiphytically on the leaf surfaces of living plants and typically depend on honeydew excreted by sap-sucking insects as their primary nutrient source. Heavy colonization by these fungi may impair host photosynthesis, reduce plant vigor, and decrease the aesthetic or economic value of affected plants. In this study, two novel species, Conidiocarpus nanshanense and Polychaeton cengongense, were collected from the leaves of Schefflera macrostachya (large-spiked schefflera) and Dalbergia assamica (South China rosewood) in Guizhou and Guangdong Provinces, respectively. Species delimitation was based on detailed morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of multiple loci, including ITS, LSU, tef1-α, and rpb2. Morphological descriptions and illustrations are provided, together with phylogenetic analyses inferred using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI). The results expand the known taxonomic diversity of sooty mould fungi in China and provide important morphological and molecular data that support species delimitation and classification within Capnodiales.
["Capnodiaceae"]

Two novel species belonging to Psathyrella sections Atomatae and Hydrophilae (Psathyrellaceae, Agaricales) from Yunnan Province, China, based on morphological and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses
This study describes two collections of saprobic gilled mushrooms morphologically identified as Psathyrella and collected in Qujing, Yunnan Province, China. Based on multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of nrITS, nrLSU, and tef-1α sequences, two collections were confirmed to belong to the Psathyrella sections Atomatae and Hydrophilae. Morphologically, Psathyrella qujinguniversitatica (Psathyrella sect. Atomatae) is characterized by small basidiomata, a beige to light brown pileus, large basidiospores, and partially thick-walled cheilocystidia, while P. yunnanensis (Psathyrella sect. Hydrophilae) is characterized by a pileus that gradually changes from orange-brown to lighter towards the margin, with the edge light brown to brown, distinct striations, a fibrillose veil, larger basidia, and partially thick-walled cheilocystidia. Descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses of the two new species are provided. In addition, the present study updates the number of Psathyrella species reported from China to 55, along with their known distribution.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

Dentipellicula hainanensis (Hericiaceae, Agaricomycetes) and Phylloporia rigida (Hymenochaetaceae, Agaricomycetes), two new species of wood-inhabiting fungi from Hainan Province, South China
Wood-rotting fungi, which are essential constituents of forest ecosystems, act as critical mediators of organic matter decomposition and material recycling within such systems. During the investigation of wood-inhabiting fungi in Hainan, China, a large number of specimens were collected. Two new species are described, based on phylogeny, morphology, host and geographic distribution. Dentipellicula hainanensis sp. nov. is characterised by resupinate, soft corky and tomentose basidiomata, uneven pileal surface and ellipsoid basidiospores (2.8–)3–4.7(–5.2) × 3.2–4.2(–4.4) µm. Phylloporia rigida sp. nov. is characterised by tough, fawn to reddish-brown basidiomata and ellipsoid basidiospores 2.3–4.5 × 2.2–3.8 µm. Detailed illustrations and descriptions of the novel species are provided. Phylogenetic analyses inferred from the combined ITS + nLSU datasets confirmed that the two new species are distinct within Dentipellicula and Phylloporia.
["Macrofungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Identification of endophytic Trichoderma species (Hypocreaceae, Hypocreales) and their application against leaf blight of host Platycladus orientalis
Ancient Platycladus orientalis holds significant historical, cultural, ecological, and landscape value. Leaf blight caused by Alternaria spp. is the most common disease of P. orientalis. However, no reports are currently available on the screening and application of biocontrol agents for controlling this disease. In this study, several Trichoderma isolates were obtained from ancient P. orientalis in Beijing. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of the concatenated ITS, tef1-α and rpb2 loci, four Trichoderma species were identified, including T. citrinoviride, T. obovatum, T. nordicum, and T. platycladi. Of these, T. platycladi is a species new to science, whereas T. nordicum and T. obovatum are new host records. Plate antagonism tests showed that representative strains of the four Trichoderma species exhibited significant inhibitory effects against colonies of Alternaria alternata and A. cantlous, the causal agents of leaf blight of ancient P. orientalis. Evaluation of the control effects on 1-year-old P. orientalis seedlings showed that these Trichoderma strains significantly controlled leaf blight, and T. nordicum CGMCC3.28772 exhibited the highest relative control effect under the same inoculation conditions.
["Alternaria leaf blight"]
["Fungal Plant Pathogen Control", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Natural occurrence of infections of the spittlebug Philaenus spumarius by the entomopathogenic fungi Zoophthora radicans and Batkoa major in Northwest Italy
An infection event of the spittlebug Philaenus spumarius (Hemiptera, Aphrophoridae) has been described, for the first time, in northwest Italy. The causative agents were two entomopathogenic fungi belonging to Entomophthorales, specifically Zoophthora radicans and, more rarely, Batkoa major. The morphological description and molecular identification of fungi have been reported, in addition to recording meteorological data that may have affected the outbreak of the infection. When massive events are ongoing, entomopathogenic fungi really behave as determinant regulators of natural populations of arthropod pests and the possibility to stress their action in this direction should be deeply investigated.
["Entomophthorales"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant and fungal interactions", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Revisiting the genus Hyphodermella (Basidiomycota, Polyporales) with descriptions of three new species
In this study, we revisited Hyphodermella with the aim of circumscribing the genus, exploring its species diversity, re-evaluating the usefulness of the morphological characters used for its identification, and providing a more precise interpretation of its geographical distribution. Specimens were studied using morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analyses of the ITS, LSU, RPB1, and RPB2 regions. The results of the concatenated phylogenetic trees based on two and four markers support the monophyly of Hyphodermella and the original description of the genus. Morphological and molecular evidence delimit six clades and one singleton within the Hyphodermella core; three of these correspond to species already described, Hyphodermella corrugata, H. maunakeaensis, and H. rosae, and three correspond to new species, Hyphodermella paulusiae sp. nov., H. ryvardenii sp. nov., and H. salcedoae sp. nov., which are described in this paper.
["Corticioid fungi"]

Three new species and two new records of Hydnum (Hydnaceae, Cantharellales) from the Dabie Mountains, China
Hydnum (Hydnaceae, Cantharellales), one of the edible ectomycorrhizal fungi, is characterized by a spine-bearing hymenophore. It is widely distributed in temperate regions and forms stable symbiotic relationships with Fagaceae and Pinaceae. During a survey of macrofungi in the Dabie Mountains region of China, ten specimens of Hydnum were collected. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis using three genetic markers (ITS + nrLSU + tef1-α), three new species (H. luteoalbum, H. albodentum, and H. albotomentosum) were identified and described, and two species newly recorded from the Dabie Mountains (H. berkeleyanum and H. pallidomarginatum) were reported. H. luteoalbum is distinguished by a white pileus covered with white tomentum, dagger-shaped or sword-like spines, and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores. H. albodentum is characterized by a pale brown pileus and subelliptical basidiospores (8.0–8.5 × 6.0–7.0 μm; av. Q = 1.17). H. albotomentosum features smaller basidiocarps, extremely short spines (0.5–2 mm), and globose to subglobose basidiospores. This study enriches the known taxonomic diversity of Hydnum and provides a dichotomous key to the species of Hydnum in China to facilitate species identification.
["Hydnum"]

Discovery of two new Phaeoclavulina species (Basidiomycota, Gomphaceae) from high-elevation habitats in the Qinghai–Xizang Plateau
The genus Phaeoclavulina is characterized by coralloid basidiomata with complex branching patterns and diverse pigmentation. Here, two new species, Phaeoclavulina fruticosa sp. nov. and P. qinghaiensis sp. nov., were discovered in high-elevation coniferous forests (ca. 2870 m) on the Qinghai–Xizang Plateau, China. Phaeoclavulina fruticosa is characterized by compact, densely branched, caespitose basidiomata that turn blue when injured and by dacryoid to ellipsoid basidiospores with patched to subconical to verrucose ornamentations. Phaeoclavulina qinghaiensis is characterized by yellow to orange-yellow basidiomata that do not change color when bruised, and by broadly ellipsoid to oblong, densely verrucose basidiospores. Phylogenetic analyses based on concatenated ITS + LSU rDNA sequences place the two new species as distinct, well-supported lineages within Phaeoclavulina. This study further expands the diversity of Phaeoclavulina on the Qinghai–Xizang Plateau.
["Coralloid fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Morpho-phylogenetic evidence uncovers new taxa of lignicolous freshwater Sordariomycetes from Yunnan and Guizhou provinces, China
Lignicolous freshwater fungi play an important role in nutrient cycling and the maintenance of biodiversity within freshwater ecosystems. Recent intensive studies, particularly in Asia, have greatly advanced understanding of their taxonomy, diversity, and ecology. Yunnan and Guizhou provinces in southwestern China represent one of the most active regions for freshwater fungal research due to their complex topography, diverse freshwater bodies, and rich biodiversity. As part of a comprehensive investigation of lignicolous freshwater fungi in southwestern China, specimens were collected from rivers and plateau lakes. Multi-gene phylogenetic analyses based on a combined LSU, ITS, SSU, rpb2, and tef1-α dataset revealed that four monotypic genera, Aquimonospora, Multiseptisporium, Paradiplococcium, and Platytrachelon, form a distinct clade within Diaporthomycetidae families incertae sedis and are closely related to Melanascomaceae, Neodictyosporiaceae, Papulosaceae, and Pseudostanjehughesiaceae. Accordingly, a new family, Platytrachelaceae, is proposed to accommodate these genera. In addition, the genus Multiseptisporium is established to accommodate the type species M. aquaticum sp. nov., which produces sporidesmium-like conidia. This study highlights the phylogenetic diversity and morphological complexity of sporidesmium-like taxa and underscores the importance of integrating morphological and phylogenetic evidence to resolve their taxonomic relationships. The findings enrich the known diversity of lignicolous freshwater fungi in Yunnan and Guizhou and provide new insights into their taxonomy and ecological adaptation within freshwater ecosystems.
["Lignicolous freshwater fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Infectious Diseases and Mycology"]

Two new lichenized species and a new record from Guizhou, China
Two new lichenized species, Chicitaea yueliangshanensis and Coniocarpon chishuiense are described through the combination of morphological characteristics, chemical profiling and phylogenetic analyses, along with a new geographical record of Synarthonia inconspicua, collected from Guizhou, China. Chicitaea yueliangshanensis is characterized by prominent lecanorine apothecia with a black, epruinose, ± flat disc and lacking isidia and soredia. This species contains perlatolic acid, 2’-O-methylperlatolic acid and an unidentified lichen substance. It forms a well-supported singleton based on both ML and Bayesian analyses in the phylogenetic tree. Another new species, Coniocarpon chishuiense is distinguished by irregularly rounded to elliptical ascomata with epruinose disc and the presence of psoromic acid along with an unknown compound. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations and a compiled species checklist summarizing diagnostic features are provided.
["2 new species"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Ecology and Soil Science", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Taxonomic novelties and phylogenetic insights into Cainiaceae (Xylariales, Sordariomycetes) associated with Poaceae hosts from Southwestern China
Cainiaceae (Xylariales, Sordariomycetes) includes fungi primarily associated with hosts of the Poaceae and Arecaceae families. Recent studies have advanced the taxonomy of this family, highlighting its ecological and morphological diversity. Investigations focusing on microfungi associated with bamboo and other grass hosts in biodiversity-rich regions, such as Sichuan and Yunnan Provinces in China, have notably increased, driven by a growing recognition of their ecological and taxonomic importance. Fungal sampling was conducted on bamboo and related Poaceae hosts across various locations in Sichuan and Yunnan Provinces. Morphological characteristics were observed and recorded. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses, using the ITS and LSU regions, were conducted to determine phylogenetic relationships and confirm taxonomic placements. We introduce two new species and document one previously known species of Arecophila, and also describe two new species in Amphibambusa and Longiappendispora. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations and phylogenetic trees clearly delineate these taxa, highlighting their distinct affiliations with existing species. This study enriches the current understanding of fungal biodiversity within Cainiaceae, emphasizing their host associations and ecological specificity. Our findings underline the importance of continued fungal exploration in grassland ecosystems and contribute data towards stabilising the taxonomy of the Cainiaceae.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Two new Neohelicomyces species (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales) associated with Coffea arabica L. in Yunnan Province, China
Neohelicomyces species comprise a group of helicosporous hyphomycetes, with over 90% of the currently accepted taxa reported from China, occurring in both freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Although the genus has been increasingly documented in recent years, its presence in crop-related ecosystems remains poorly understood, as most species have been reported from unknown hosts. In this study, a survey of fungi associated with Coffea arabica in Yunnan Province, China, was conducted, and fruiting bodies of helicosporous hyphomycetes were found on dead branches of coffee plants. Based on the morphological characteristics of conidiophores, conidiogenous cells, and conidia, in combination with multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tef1-α), two novel species of Neohelicomyces (N. coffeae and N. puerensis) were identified. Morphologically, N. coffeae differs from closely related species N. edgeworthiae by having shorter conidiophores, longer conidiogenous cells, and smaller, multi-septate conidia (vs. aseptate in N. edgeworthiae), while N. puerensis differs from its close relative N. dehongensis by having narrower and distinctly multi-septate conidia, more tightly coiled conidial filaments, and unbranched conidiophores. These results expand the known diversity of Neohelicomyces and contribute to a better understanding of fungal assemblages associated with coffee plants in subtropical China. In addition, detailed descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic trees are provided.
["Coffee-associated microfungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

Revisions to the Gliophorus irrigatus complex (Agaricales, Hygrophoraceae, Gliophorus, section Unguinosae) including four new species, one new combination and comparisons of basidiome vs. eDNA distributions
Here, we report the discovery of four new agaricoid fungi in the Gliophorus irrigatus complex of the family Hygrophoraceae. Gliophorus alboviscidus sp. nov. from the UK is morphologically identical to the European G. irrigatus (which we neotypify), except that its basidiome is white or pale Buff-coloured vs. brownish-grey. Two new species from eastern North America, Gliophorus fumosus sp. nov. (provisional name Gliophorus sp. ‘irrigatus-IN01’) and Gliophorus parafumosus sp. nov. (previously labelled G. irrigatus) resemble G. irrigatus s.s. in grey colour and morphology, but their distributions are restricted to North America. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed that the two North American groups form distinct clades, with > 10% ITS sequence divergence from European G. irrigatus s.s. and from each other. Though G. alboviscidus sp. nov. is currently known only from two locations in the UK, searches for related sequences from eDNA (environmental DNA) sequence repositories (UNITE/GlobalFungi) suggested that this species is more widely distributed in Eurasia. G. fumosus and G. parafumosus sequences from eastern North America were divergent from both European G. irrigatus and G. alboviscidus; both were more closely related to another species with a strong odour and white/Buff basidiomes from north-western North America, Hygrophorus subaromaticus, for which we sequenced the holotype and recombine in the genus Gliophorus. We also describe a new species from north-western North America, G. calunus sp. nov. (provisional name Gliophorus sp. ‘irrigatus-CA01’), based on vouchered specimens photographed and sequenced by a paraprofessional group, CA FUNDIS. We highlight the importance of citizen-scientist groups and paraprofessionals in documenting macrofungal species and their distributions via databases, such as iNaturalist, Mushroom Observer and MycoMap. Further, we discuss reasons that eDNA distributions are often larger than known distributions of basidiomes, including G. alboviscidus and G. fumosus.
["Basidiome distributions"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Multigene phylogenetic analyses and morpho-anatomical characterization revealed two new species of Xylariomycetidae from Yunnan, China
During a survey of ascomycetes in Yunnan Province, China, two new wood-inhabiting fungi were collected and identified. These novel species are described based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of the ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tef1 loci. The newly identified species are designated as Amphisphaeria zhaotongensis and Pallidoperidium yunnanense, belonging to the families Amphisphaeriaceae and Pallidoperidiaceae, respectively. These species are confirmed as distinct from their close relatives through phylogenetic analyses and morpho-anatomical comparison. The study provides detailed morphological descriptions, illustrative representations, and a phylogenetic tree, all of which contribute to the taxonomic positioning of these novel species.
["Two novel taxa"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Taxonomic revision of Conobolbitina (Bolbitiaceae, Agaricales) based on collections from Jilin Province, China
Conobolbitina is a morphologically diverse transitional genus within the Bolbitiaceae. However, taxonomic confusion persists, as some of its species remain classified under other genera, and its section Verrucisporae has been recovered as paraphyletic. This study revises the subdivision of Conobolbitina using integrated morphological and phylogenetic analyses of specimens from Jilin Province, China. A combined dataset of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), nuclear large subunit ribosomal DNA (nrLSU), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) sequences was analyzed using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI). Phylogenetic results revealed four major monophyletic clades within Conobolbitina, corresponding to its four sections. In sect. Conobolbitina, new combinations are proposed for two species, Con. sulcata and Con. striipes. In sect. Aeruginosa, Con. atrocyanea is newly combined. For sect. Verrucisporae, its circumscription is revised by excluding the taxa responsible for its paraphyly, and a new combination, Con. australis, is proposed. To accommodate the excluded taxa from sect. Verrucisporae, a new section, sect. Lignicola, is established based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. Within this new section, three species, Con. glutinosa, Con. viscosa, and Con. sibirica, are newly combined, and two new species, Con. lignicola sp. nov. and Con. fuscoviolacea sp. nov., are described. Through these revisions, the taxonomic positions of several species are clarified, and the paraphyly of sect. Verrucisporae is resolved. In total, this study revises and recognizes 10 new taxonomic entities, including one new section, two new species, and seven new combinations. An identification key to the Chinese species of Conobolbitina is provided, along with morphological descriptions and line drawings for the two new species.
["Conobolbitina"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Two new species of Periconia and a new record of Paramonodictys from Miscanthus sinensis in Guizhou Province, China
Miscanthus is a widely distributed perennial grass in the family Poaceae that hosts a diverse fungal community. During a mycological survey conducted in the Maolan National Nature Reserve, Guizhou Province, China, three fungal isolates were obtained from dead leaves of Miscanthus sinensis. Multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large subunit (LSU), small subunit (SSU), and tef1-α sequence data indicated that the new isolates represent two new species, Periconia guizhouensis and Pe. miscanthusensis, and one new host record of Paramonodictys globosa. Periconia guizhouensis is distinct from its phylogenetically closest species in having globose to fusiform, guttulate, aseptate conidia with an inconspicuously verrucose surface. Periconia miscanthusensis is distinct from its phylogenetically closest species in having apically branched conidiophores produced in acropetal chains and globose, verrucose, aseptate conidia. Comprehensive descriptions, micrographs, and phylogenetic analysis results are provided. Furthermore, these findings enhance understanding of fungi associated with Miscanthus and expand current knowledge of fungal diversity in China.
["2 new taxa"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and fungal interactions", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Taxonomic and phylogenetic insights into dipteran-parasitizing Ophiocordyceps: Descriptions of two new species and a new record from China and Laos
Ophiocordyceps species are renowned for their ecological roles and medicinal potential, yet their diversity on dipteran hosts remains insufficiently documented. Here, we investigated the diversity of dipteran-parasitizing Ophiocordyceps from China and Laos, describing two novel taxa—O. calliphoridarum and O. laosensis—and reporting O. muscae as a new record for Laos. Phylogenetic analyses based on a five-locus dataset (ITS, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2) strongly support the recognition of the two new species within the O. dipterigena complex of the hymenostilboid clade. Ophiocordyceps calliphoridarum is closely related to O. muscidarum but differs by parasitizing Lucilia caesar (Calliphoridae) rather than the housefly (Muscidae) and by possessing significantly larger asci and part-spores. O. laosensis closely resembles O. muscae but can be distinguished by its elongated perithecial ostioles and large asci and part-spores. Additionally, the asexual morph of O. muscidarum was newly described. These findings broaden our knowledge of the taxonomy and diversity of dipteran-parasitizing Ophiocordyceps, and further corroborate the phylogenetic monophyly of this lineage, thereby offering valuable insights into the co-evolutionary relationships between Ophiocordyceps fungi and their dipteran hosts.
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal two new species, Ophiocordyceps ramosa sp. nov. (Ophiocordycipitaceae) and Leptobacillium hepiali sp. nov. (Cordycipitaceae), in Hypocreales from China
Ophiocordyceps holds significant value in controlling arthropod populations, maintaining ecosystem balance, and developing bioactive substances. During the natural infection of hosts, Ophiocordyceps fungi, along with other fungal species, form a micro-ecological complex, where these microorganisms also exhibit ecological functions and biological value. In this study, two new species were introduced, from Ophiocordyceps and Leptobacillium, based on morphological observation and multi-gene (ITS, nrSSU, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2) phylogenetic analysis. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that Ophiocordyceps ramosa sp. nov. is closely related to Hirsutella satumaensis and H. nodulosa, and Leptobacillium hepiali sp. nov. is closely related to L. latisporum. O. ramosa sp. nov. is characterised by multi-branched or partially forked, lignified and light brown stromata, phialides with a swollen base and tapering neck, and spherical or sub-spherical conidia, distinguishing it from closely related species. L. hepiali sp. nov. is characterized by solitary, unbranched phialides, clearly differentiating it from its relatives, which have 2–3 branched phialides. The distinctiveness of these two new species was strongly supported by both molecular phylogeny and morphology.
["Leptobacillium"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Species diversity of Derxomyces (Bulleribasidiaceae, Tremellales) in China, with descriptions of two new species
Derxomyces is a monophyletic genus within the family Bulleribasidiaceae, with species that are both abundant and diverse in China, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. In this study, molecular phylogenetic data and phenotypic characteristics were integrated to investigate the species diversity of Derxomyces in Hainan and Henan Provinces of China. A total of nine species were documented, including two new species, D. alseodaphnes sp. nov. (holotype GDMCC 2.534T) and D. henanensis sp. nov. (holotype GDMCC 2.336T), as well as one species new to China, D. schimicola. The remaining species included five that were originally described from China and one that was first identified from New Zealand. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the two new species are presented, along with comparisons to closely-related species. This study contributes to our understanding of the Derxomyces species diversity in China and lays the foundation for future taxonomic and ecological research.
["Basidiomycetes"]
["Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal three new species of Gibellula (Cordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) from spiders
The genus Gibellula (Cordycipitaceae) comprises spider-pathogenic fungi. Three new species, G. pseudopigmentosa, G. pseudosolita, and G. sinensis, were discovered on spiders in the leaf litter of forests in Yunnan and Jilin provinces, China, and in Vientiane Prefecture and Oudomxay Province, Laos. Morphological and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses (based on nrSSU, ITS, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2) support their recognition as distinct taxa. Gibellula pseudopigmentosa is distinguished from its sister species, G. pigmentosinum, by smaller perithecia and shorter ascospores. Gibellula pseudosolita differs from its close relatives by producing multiple synnemata per host and possessing smaller conidia. Gibellula sinensis is characterized by shorter conidiophores and smaller conidial heads compared with morphologically similar species. This study presents the first formal record of Gibellula from Laos, significantly expanding the known distribution of the genus in Southeast Asia and contributing to our understanding of its diversity.
["Laos"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Nail Diseases and Treatments"]

Morphological and molecular data reveal one new species of Coltricia and one new species of Sidera in Hymenochaetales from South China
Two new poroid species of Hymenochaetales, Coltricia subpusilla and Sidera pini, are described from Anhui Province and Jiangxi Province based on morphological characters and multimarker phylogenetic analyses using a combined ITS, nLSU, and partial tef1 dataset. Phylogenetic results revealed that C. subpusilla is closely related to C. pusilla and that S. pini is related to S. borealis. Coltricia subpusilla was found on the bark of dead Pinus and is recognized by its annual, laterally stipitate, small, flabelliform to subcircular pilei, angular pores (2–3 per mm), and smooth to verrucose basidiospores. Sidera pini was found on fallen trunks of Pinus massoniana and is characterized by annual, resupinate basidiomata with angular pores (8–12 per mm), a dimitic hyphal system, and allantoid basidiospores. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the two new species are provided.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two new species of Niesslia (Niessliaceae, Hypocreales) from China
The genus Niesslia is common on decaying plant and fungal substrates, as well as in soil. During a survey of culturable mycobiota in urban soils, six Niesslia isolates were obtained in Shanxi Province, China. Based on combined multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, TEF1, TUB and ACT) and morphological characteristics, two novel species, Niesslia curvispora and N. shanxiensis, are proposed. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations and phylogenetic analyses of the new taxa are presented.
["Asexual morph"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

Two new saprobic species of Helicosporium and Dictyosporium and a new host record of Neohelicomyces guizhouensis isolated from Phellodendron amurense (Rutaceae, Tracheophyta) in China
During a survey of saprobic fungi associated with the medicinal plant Phellodendron amurense in Guizhou Province, China, three taxa were isolated and examined. Based on morphological characteristics and multigene phylogenetic analyses, two novel species, Dictyosporium phellodendri (Dictyosporiaceae, Pleosporales) and Helicosporium phellodendri (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales), are proposed. In addition, Neohelicomyces guizhouensis (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales) is reported as a new host record. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations and molecular evidence are provided to support the establishment of these taxa.
["Cheirosporous"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Two new species of Penicillium (Eurotiales, Aspergillaceae) and the first record of P. danzhouense from mangrove sediment in Thailand, with notes on antibacterial activity
Two novel species of Penicillium, comprising P. chanthaburiense sp. nov. and P. buranakarlianum sp. nov., were isolated from mangrove sediment collected at the King Rama IX International Mangrove Botanical Garden in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand. Morphological characterization combined with multilocus phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), β-tubulin (TUB), calmodulin (CaM), and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2) genes placed P. chanthaburiense sp. nov. as a new member of section Exilicaulis, series Erubescentia, while P. buranakarlianum sp. nov. was assigned to section Lanata-Divaricata, series Janthinella. In addition, this study reports the first record of P. danzhouense from mangrove sediment in Thailand. Diagnostic morphological and molecular features distinguishing these taxa from their closest phylogenetic relatives are presented. These findings enrich the taxonomic framework of Penicillium and contribute to the understanding of fungal biodiversity in mangrove ecosystems. Furthermore, P. chanthaburiense sp. nov. exhibited antibacterial activity against several clinically relevant Gram-positive pathogens, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), highlighting the potential of mangrove-derived Penicillium species in antimicrobial research.
["Exilicaulis"]
["Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food"]

New species and records of Cytospora (Cytosporaceae, Diaporthales) from tree branches in Hebei Province, China
Species of Cytospora have been commonly reported as plant pathogens with wide host ranges and geographic distributions. In this study, ten strains of this genus were isolated from branches collected in Hebei Province, China. They were identified based on a multi-locus phylogeny of ITS, act, rpb2, tef1-α, and tub2 genes, along with morphological characters. As a result, they were identified as six species, including five known species (C. ampla, C. pseudochrysosperma, C. sophoricola, C. sorbariae, and C. yinchuanensis) and one new species (C. hebeiensis). Among the known species, C. ampla, C. sorbariae, and C. yinchuanensis were newly discovered on Malus spectabilis; C. pseudochrysosperma was newly discovered on Salix matsudana; and C. sophoricola was newly discovered on Caragana microphylla. The results enrich the diversity of Cytospora species associated with tree canker and dieback diseases in Hebei Province, China.
["Canker disease"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Two new species of Papiliotrema (Rhynchogastremataceae, Tremellales) from China
Papiliotrema species are commonly found in different habitats and many of them are reported as epiphytic yeasts associated with plants. In this study, several yeast strains were isolated from the surface of plants collected in the Chinese provinces of Guizhou and Hainan. Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS and LSU sequence data placed them in Papiliotrema. Two new species, Papiliotrema millettiae sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33641) and P. mussaendae sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33595), are proposed on the basis of phylogenetic analyses and phenotypic characterisation. Detailed descriptions of both species are provided, allowing clear differentiation from other known species in the genus Papiliotrema. In addition, P. fudaokuniae is considered a synonym of P. fusca, based on our phylogenetic analyses. This study contributes to a better understanding of species diversity within the genus Papiliotrema and provides a framework for future taxonomic research in the group.
["Basidiomycetes"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Polar Research and Ecology", "Fungal and yeast genetics research"]

Microbotryozyma lacustris sp. nov. (Basidiomycota, Ustilentylomataceae) and Cyberlindnera basumtsoensis sp. nov. (Ascomycota, Phaffomycetaceae), two novel yeasts isolated from freshwater Lake Basom Tso, China
High-altitude lakes in Tibet represent unique and underexplored reservoirs of microbial diversity. An investigation of yeast diversity in Basom Lake, a high-altitude lake in Tibet, China, led to the discovery of two novel species: Microbotryozyma lacustris sp. nov. and Cyberlindnera basumtsoensis sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses of the ITS region and D1/D2 LSU rRNA gene sequences, complemented by phenotypic characterization, confirmed their distinct taxonomic status. Microbotryozyma lacustris represents the third species described in its genus and the first documented occurrence of Microbotryozyma in a freshwater habitat. Cyberlindnera basumtsoensis further expands the ecological diversity of the genus Cyberlindnera. This study significantly enriches the taxonomic framework of both genera and underscores the value of high-altitude lakes as reservoirs of novel yeast diversity.
["Basom Lake"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Polar Research and Ecology", "Fermentation and Sensory Analysis"]

Two new species of Neohelicomyces (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales) from Hainan Province, China
During a survey of helicosporous hyphomycetes in tropical regions, four fungal strains were isolated from decaying wood in terrestrial habitats of Hainan Province, China. Based on combined phylogenetic analyses of LSU, ITS, tef1-α, and rpb2 sequence data, together with morphological evidence, two novel species, Neohelicomyces terrestris and N. tropicus, are herein proposed. Comprehensive descriptions, illustrations, taxonomic notes, and phylogenetic analyses are provided to confirm the taxonomic placement. The newly described species were found in tropical rainforests, thereby expanding the known distribution of Neohelicomyces in tropical terrestrial habitats.
["Dothideomycetes"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

Novel Helicotubeufia and Tubeufia (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales) species from terrestrial habitats in Hainan Province, China
Helicosporous hyphomycetes are a group of fungi, characterised by coiled or spiral conidia and are known for their potential to produce bioactive secondary metabolites. During a survey of helicosporous hyphomycetes, four isolates were obtained from decaying wood in Hainan Province, southern China. Based on phylogenetic analyses of a combined dataset (ITS, LSU, tef1-α and rpb2) and morphological characteristics, two novel species, Helicotubeufia qixianlingensis and Tubeufia diaoluoshanensis, are introduced. Comprehensive descriptions, illustrations and phylogenetic analyses supporting the taxonomic placement of these new taxa are provided. Notably, H. qixianlingensis represents the first record of Helicotubeufia from a terrestrial habitat, thereby expanding the known diversity of tropical terrestrial fungi.
["Asexual morph"]
["Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

Three new species of Ochrolechia (Ochrolechiaceae, Pertusariales) from Guizhou Province, China
Based on morphological, chemical and phylogenetic analyses, three species of Ochrolechia collected from Guizhou, China, are described as new to science and named Ochrolechia guizhouensis, O. kuankuoshuiensis and O. leigongshanensis. Phylogenetic trees, based on ITS and mtSSU loci, were constructed using Maximum Likelihood analysis (ML) and Bayesian Inference (BI) methods. Ochrolechia guizhouensis and O. akagiensis are positioned close to each other in the phylogenetic tree. Ochrolechia guizhouensis is morphologically characterised by its apothecia which feature rugose to rosulate, epruinose discs resembling a floral structure. Chemically, the apothecia contain gyrophoric acid, lecanoric acid and lichesterinic acid, while the thallus contains only gyrophoric acid and lecanoric acid. Phylogenetic analysis reveals that Ochrolechia kuankuoshuiensis is closely related to O. parellula and is distinguished by its light yellow, epruinose, deeply rugose apothecial discs, the production of gyrophoric acid and lecanoric acid and the largest ascospores known in the genus. Ochrolechia leigongshanensis forms an isolated phylogenetic branch which is characterised by a soraliate thallus and apothecia with a ring of smooth, salmon-pink tissue on the inner margin. The discs are epruinose to lightly pruinose and plane. The thallus contains gyrophoric acid, lecanoric acid and a trace of atranorin, while the apothecia contain only gyrophoric acid and lecanoric acid. Additionally, O. subrosella and O. longispora were successfully sequenced for the first time and represent the first records from Guizhou Province. We found one specimen, which phylogenetically groups with O. trochophora, but is characterised by the presence of soralia, indicating that O. trochophora might be morphologically more variable than previously thought. Colour photographs are provided for all the above-mentioned species.
["Lichen"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two new species of Cora (lichenized Basidiomycota, Lichenomphaliaceae) and additional records from Bolivia
Two new species of lichens, Cora neoparabovei Oset, Flakus & Guzow-Krzem. and C. neopseudobovei Oset, Flakus & Guzow-Krzem., are described based on material collected in Bolivia. The study is based on morphological and anatomical examinations, molecular phylogenetic analysis and haplotype network analysis of the nuITS rDNA sequences. Phenotypically, Cora neoparabovei is characterised by the long, concentrically arranged setae on the surface of the thallus and densely pilose margins, whereas in C. neopseudobovei the diagnostic features are the brown upper surface thallus when fresh, pale yellow to orange-yellow when dry, with slightly visible concentric colour zonation when dry and also with involute, creamy white margins. In addition, three species, i.e., Cora arcabucana B. Moncada, C. Rodr. & Lücking, C. cuzcoensis Holgado, Rivas Plata & Perlmutter, and C. undulata L.Y. Vargas, B. Moncada & Lücking, are reported as new to Bolivia. New records of C. aspera Wilk, Lücking & E. Morales from Bolivia are reported.
["Basidiolichens"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Building materials and conservation"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal three new species associated with Pueraria from Xizang Autonomous Region, China
During a survey of microfungi associated with Pueraria in the Xizang Autonomous Region, China, three saprobic taxa were isolated from the dead vines of Pueraria sp. Based on morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses, the three taxa are identified as new species, viz., Hermatomyces nyingchiensis, H. xizangensis, and Rhytidhysteron xizangense. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of these new collections, along with a synopsis of Hermatomyces species, are provided.
["3 new taxa"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Multi-origin analysis of the traditional Chinese medicine Leiwan
This study investigates the taxonomic identity of Leiwan (雷丸), a traditional medicinal fungus used in Chinese herbal medicine. Over the past two decades, 21 specimens were collected from herbal markets and through extensive field surveys across multiple provinces in China. Both morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal that Leiwan originates from multi-evolutionary lineages, represented by at least three distinct species: Gerronema brunneosquamulosum (雷丸老伞), G. sinense sp. nov. (中华老伞) and Moniliophthora sclerotium sp. nov. (菌核丛梗霉皮伞). We confirm that G. brunneosquamulosum is a valid name for the traditional Chinese medicine Leiwan and propose G. lapidescens as its synonym. Furthermore, M. sclerotium is the first report of a sclerotium-forming species within this genus, marking a significant expansion of its known ecological and morphological diversity. This study provides a taxonomic framework for Leiwan, establishing a scientific basis for future mycological and pharmacological research.
["Medicinal fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Five novel species of Curvularia (Pleosporales, Pleosporaceae) isolated from turfgrasses
Curvularia, a cosmopolitan fungal genus, occupies various ecological niches, but displays a pronounced tendency to colonise the leaves of plants. In this study, several fungal isolates with similar characteristics in the genus Curvularia were collected from leaf spots of turfgrasses (Cynodon dactylon and Lolium perenne) in Jiangsu Province, China. Based on the morphological characteristics and three locus phylogeny of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) genes, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and translation elongation factor-1 alpha (tef1), five new species in Curvularia: C. cynodontis, C. herbicola, C. loliicola, C. nanjingensis and C. xuanwuensis, are described hereby. The present study contributes to the understanding of species diversity, taxonomy and phylogeny of Curvularia species in China.
["Fungal diversity"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Turfgrass Adaptation and Management"]

An overview of the genus Lobothallia (lichenized Ascomycota, Megasporaceae) in China
Lobothallia is a species-rich genus of crustose lichens that is mainly distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the taxonomy and phylogeny of this genus, leading to the description of numerous new species. However, Lobothallia in China has never been systematically revised. In this study, approximately 500 specimens of Lobothallia collected from different provinces of China were examined. Based on morphological and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses, an overview of this genus in China was provided. Eight species, L. benzilanensis, L. complanata, L. polypycnidiata, L. pseudopruinosa, L. pulchra, L. rubra, L. stipitata and L. wangii, were described as new to science. The species, Lobothallia brachyloba, was reported in China for the first time. In addition, we generated DNA sequences of the species Lobothallia hedinii from topotype specimens and clarified its phylogenetic position. Detailed descriptions, illustrations of morphological characters of the above-mentioned species, and comparisons with closely related taxa are provided. A dichotomous key to 22 species of Lobothallia from China is presented.
["Lichen-forming fungi"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Building materials and conservation"]

Unveiling species diversity within Mortierellomycota from China X: Three new species in Linnemannia and one in Mortierella
The species of the Mortierellaceae family are diverse and widely distributed. Four new species in this family are proposed from rhizosphere soil through a comprehensive taxonomic approach that combined multi-locus (SSU-ITS-LSU-RPB1-Act) phylogenetic analyses with detailed morphological examination. This study describes and illustrates these taxa, clarifying their morphological features from closely related species and their phylogenetic positions within the family. Linnemannia chlamydospora sp. nov. (phylogenetically proximate to L. longigemmata) is characterized by the abundant production of thick-walled chlamydospores. Linnemannia ovalispora sp. nov. (a sister taxon to L. rugosa) is distinguished by its oval sporangiospores. Linnemannia yunnanensis sp. nov. (closely allied to L. bainierella) is characterized by its oval chlamydospores and is named after Yunnan Province, its type locality. Mortierella irregularispora sp. nov. (clustering with M. parvispora) is distinguished by its irregularly shaped sporangiospores. As this is the tenth instalment of our systematic survey of Mortierellomycota diversity in China, this study expands the global species inventory of Mortierellaceae to 158.
["Mortierellaceae"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Three new species of Fuscoporia (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) from southern India revealed by morphological and multigene phylogenetic analyses
Fuscoporia Murrill, a cosmopolitan genus of the Hymenochaetaceae, consists of parasitic and saprotrophic fungi characterized by resupinate to pileate, strictly dimitic hyphal systems, encrusted generative hyphae, the presence of hymenial setae, and hyaline, smooth, thin-walled basidiospores. Based on morpho-microtaxonomic examinations and phylogenetic analyses using a combined ITS, nrLSU, partial rpb2, and tef1-α dataset, three new species of Fuscoporia—F. indica, F. sirumalaiensis, and F. terminalianae—are described from the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India. The newly described species form three distinct lineages within the F. torulosa complex. Fuscoporia indica is characterized by imbricate, convex, dimidiate basidiomes, a glabrous, azonate pilear surface, and ellipsoid basidiospores (3.5–4.5 × 2.5–2.9 μm). Fuscoporia sirumalaiensis has a smooth to glabrous, concentrically zonate pilear surface, a duplex context, and smaller basidiospores (3.1–3.6 × 2.1–2.6 μm). Finally, F. terminalianae is recognized by its effused-reflexed to imbricate basidiome, widely zonate and warted pilear surface, and ellipsoidal basidiospores (3.3–4.3 × 2.8–3 μm). This study provides comprehensive descriptions, morphological illustrations, and insights into the differences among these new species and their respective allied taxa, along with the results of phylogenetic analysis.
["Hymenochaetaceae"]

Two new species of Pestalotiopsis (Amphisphaeriales, Pestalotiopsidaceae) causing needle blight of Pinus massoniana in China
Pinus massoniana Lamb. is an important tree species widely used for afforestation and industrial timber on barren hills in China. Needle blight of P. massoniana, caused by Pestalotiopsis spp., is widespread and occurs over a large area. In this study, 10 representative strains were isolated from diseased needles of P. massoniana in Anhui and Guangxi provinces. Based on phylogenetic analysis of three genomic loci (ITS, TEF1, and TUB2), combined with morphological characteristics, two new species—Pestalotiopsis liuzhouensis sp. nov. and Pestalotiopsis kendrickii sp. nov.—were identified. Pathogenicity experiments showed that these 10 representative strains were pathogenic to P. massoniana. This study enhances understanding of the diversity of pathogens causing P. massoniana needle blight and provides insights for future control strategies.
["Asexual fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Two new species of Chionosphaera and Kurtzmanomyces (Chionosphaeraceae, Agaricostilbomycetes) isolated from China
Within the family Chionosphaeraceae, only nine species of Chionosphaera and Kurtzmanomyces have been described to date. In this study, two strains of Chionosphaera and two strains of Kurtzmanomyces from China were examined using phylogenetic, physiological, and biochemical approaches. Phylogenetic analyses based on sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene, and the translation elongation factor 1-α gene (tef1α) were conducted to infer species relationships within the genera Chionosphaera and Kurtzmanomyces. As a result, two novel species are proposed: Chionosphaera foliicola sp. nov. (holotype GDMCC 2.531T) and Kurtzmanomyces guiyangensis sp. nov. (holotype GDMCC 2.499T). Descriptions and illustrations of both species are provided, together with comparisons to closely related taxa. This study expands the known diversity of Chionosphaeraceae in China and provides a basis for future taxonomic and ecological investigations.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Infectious Diseases and Mycology"]

Three new species of Mycena sect. Calodontes (Mycenaceae, Agaricales) from Northeastern China
Mycena sect. Calodontes is a large section within the genus Mycena, with 44 species described worldwide. The section is well characterized by relatively large basidiomata, typically growing on the humus layer of coniferous or coniferous-broadleaved mixed forests. Only 19 species of sect. Calodontes have been previously recorded in China, more than half of sect. Calodontes species are distributed in east and north regions, but also distributed in west and south regions. Based on 8 specimens collected from Heilongjiang and Jilin Province, 3 novel species are formally described: M. brunneocystidiata sp. nov., M. roseopurpurea sp. nov., and M. rubrofusca sp. nov. Mycena brunneocystidiata is distinguished by purple-brown to brown pileus, brown lamellae margins, and cystidia with brown contents. Mycena roseopurpurea is characterized by the pileus with brownish center, white lamellae margins, and colorless, fusiform cystidia. Mycena rubrofusca is distinguished by brownish pileus, white lamellae margins, and colorless, utriform cystidia. Detailed morphological descriptions, high-resolution habitat photographs, line drawings, and comparison with closely related taxa are provided for the new species. A combined phylogenetic analysis was conducted, based on a multi-locus (ITS+RPB1+tef1-α) dataset under Bayesian Inference (BI) and Maximum Likelihood (ML) analyses. The morphological data and the results of the phylogenetic analyses support the recognition of the 3 new species. A key to the 20 species currently known species of sect. Calodontes in China is also provided.
["New taxon"]

The addition of six novel species and a new record of Amphisphaeria from northern Thailand
This study introduces six new Amphisphaeria species, discovered on dead twigs belonging to Calophyllaceae, Fabaceae, Sapotaceae, and Theaceae in northern Thailand, based on a morpho-phylogenetic approach. Our newly introduced Amphisphaeria species share morphological traits with other members of the genus, featuring ascomata with a two-layered peridium and unitunicate asci with either J+ or J- apical ring. The newly identified species Amphisphaeria mesuae, A. mimusopis, A. paraserianthis, A. pseudomicheliae, A. pterocarpi, and A. schimae differ from previously known Amphisphaeria species in Amphisphaeriaceae. This distinction is supported by combined analyses using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference of nuclear ribosomal large subunit rDNA (LSU) and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence matrix. Amphisphaeria mesuae can be distinguished from A. ailaoshanensis by the presence of larger ascomata, smaller asci, ellipsoidal ascospores, and the absence of a sheath surrounding the ascospores. Amphisphaeria mimusopis differs from its phylogenetically related sister taxon by possessing smaller asci, larger ascospores, and narrower paraphyses. Amphisphaeria paraserianthis differs from closely related taxa in its ostiolate ascomata and 3-septate ascospores. Amphisphaeria pterocarpi can be distinguished from the taxon with which it clusters by having smaller ascomata and ascospores. Amphisphaeria pseudomicheliae has larger ascomata and asci, but smaller ascospores, compared to its sister taxon, A. micheliae. Amphisphaeria schimae differs from closely related taxa in its larger ascomata, asci, and ascospores. Amphisphaeria micheliae was also collected here and is reported as a new record on Senna siamea. This study contributes to the expansion of the taxonomic framework of Amphisphaeria.
["6 novel species"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Phylogeny and comparative analysis of mitochondrial genomes of Gomphus spp. Pers. (Basidiomycota, Agaricomycetes), with descriptions of G. matijun J.W. Liu & F.Q. Yu and G. bijiensis sp. nov.
The genus Gomphus Pers. presents persistent taxonomic challenges due to its morphological similarities with related genera. In this study, we collected two specimens of Gomphus from Guizhou, China; one specimen is described as a new species, Gomphus bijiensis sp. nov. and the other is identified as G. matijun J.W. Liu & F.Q. Yu based on morphological traits and phylogenetic analyses of the nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and nuclear rDNA large subunit (LSU). To resolve their evolutionary relationships we assembled and annotated the mitochondrial genomes of both species using next-generation sequencing. Comparative analyses revealed codon usage strongly biased toward A- or U-ending codons, consistent with the low GC content typical of fungal mitochondria. Variation in protein-coding gene lengths and base composition suggests that diverse evolutionary pressures have shaped these genomes. Divergence time estimation indicates that morphological diversity within Gomphus and related macrofungi has largely resulted from convergent evolution. Phylogenetic reconstruction places G. bijiensis and G. matijun within a distinct clade, supporting their close evolutionary affinity and the coexistence of ancestral and derived traits. This study provides the first comprehensive mitochondrial genomic data for Gomphus, offering new insights into its taxonomy, phylogeny, and evolutionary dynamics, and establishing a framework for future studies within the Gomphaceae.
["Clavarioid fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Four new species of Entoloma subgen. Cubospora (Entolomataceae, Agaricales) from Yunnan Province, China
Species of Entoloma are exceptionally diverse and widely distributed, with cuboid-spored members occurring mainly in subtropical to tropical regions. These cuboid-spored taxa are primarily classified into two subgenera, E. subg. Cuboeccilia and E. subg. Cubospora. During surveys conducted in Yunnan Province, a representative subtropical region of China, four new species belonging to E. subg. Cubospora were identified through multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tef1) combined with detailed morphological observations. Entoloma acutiflavum is distinguished by its yellow basidiomata, papillate pileus, heterogeneous lamellar edge, and the presence of clamp connections. Entoloma bichromum can be recognized by a centrally papillate pileus, serrate pileal and lamellar margins, and clavate to cylindrical pleurocystidia that are flexuous, furcate, or occasionally ventricose. Entoloma guttuliferum is characterized by its yellowish-white to white papillate pileus, clavate to elongated clavate terminal cells in both the pileipellis and stipitipellis, and pigmented cystidia, lamellar trama, pileipellis, and stipitipellis. Entoloma rufosquamulosum is identified by its reddish-brown to grayish-violet squamose pileus, with reddish-brown pigments present in the upper hyphal layer and terminal cells of the pileipellis. Detailed descriptions, line drawings, habitat photographs, SEM micrographs, and comparisons with morphologically and phylogenetically related taxa are provided. A key to the species of Entoloma subg. Cubospora from China is also included.
["Cuboid spores"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

New species and newly recorded species of the family Strophariaceae (Agaricomycetes, Agaricales) in China
Two new species, Pholiota songjiangensis and Pyrrhulomyces pileocystidiatus, and one species newly recorded in China, Agrocybe eduardii, are described in this study. All of these species belong to the family Strophariaceae. Pholiota songjiangensis is characterized by a pallid pileus with appressed and concentric squamules, a white stipe covered with light yellowish-brown small scales, ellipsoid to ovoid basidiospores with an obvious germ pore, pleurocystidia as chrysocystidia, and cheilocystidia with two shapes: elongate-cylindrical with a capitulate apex and narrowly lageniform. Pyrrhulomyces pileocystidiatus is characterized by a bright orange-red to ochraceous brown pileus with an obtuse umbo, bitter taste, blackening basidiomata, pleurocystidia as chrysocystidia, and broadly clavate and orange-red pileocystidia. The specimens of Agrocybe eduardii collected from China in the present study closely matched the original morphological description of this species. These three species are described and illustrated, and phylogenetic analysis of a multigene dataset (ITS+nrLSU) is presented. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses confirmed that Pholiota songjiangensis and Pyrrhulomyces pileocystidiatus were distinctly different from other Pholiota and Pyrrhulomyces species, respectively. The Chinese samples formed a monophyletic group with the holotype of Agrocybe eduardii, confirming its newly recorded status from China when combined with the morphological evidence. Keys to species of Pyrrhulomyces, Agrocybe from China, and Pholiota subgenus Pholiota from China are provided.
["Agrocybe"]

Expanding the genus Neobaryopsis (Calcarisporiaceae, Hypocreales): descriptions of two new species and two new combinations based on morphological and molecular data
The genus Neobaryopsis (Calcarisporiaceae) comprises lichenicolous fungi with bright-colored perithecia, long, multiseptate, filiform ascospores, and mononematous conidiophores or distinctive synnematous-like asexual morphs. The genus was originally described from species growing on Lobariella spp., but its close morphological similarity to Neobarya long obscured its phylogenetic identity. In this study, we reassess the systematics of Neobarya-like taxa using a combination of morphological and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, tef1, rpb2). Our results confirm that several lichenicolous species historically placed in Neobarya in fact belong to the genus Neobaryopsis, which is closely related to Calcarisporium. We describe two new species (Neobaryopsis eriodermaticola and N. teloschistis) and propose two new combinations (Neobaryopsis ciliaris and N. peltigerae). This work expands the genus Neobaryopsis to five recently accepted species, some of which exhibit strong host specificity and a primarily South American distribution. An identification key for species of Neobaryopsis and Neobarya-like fungi is provided. Our results clarify the systematics of these morphologically similar lichenicolous fungi and provide a framework for future studies on host specificity, biogeography, and evolutionary relationships within Hypocreales.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

New species of Aspergillus in sections Cavernicolarum and Nigri from terrestrial ecosystems of China (Eurotiales, Aspergillaceae)
Aspergillus species are of great industrial, agricultural, and medicinal importance. During investigations on the biodiversity of Aspergillaceae, two species of Aspergillus isolated from soil samples in China were identified as new to science based on sequence analyses and morphological comparisons. Aspergillus hebeiensis from a traditional cultural and Buddhist heritage site is the second member of the series Hainanici in section Cavernicolarum of subgenus Nidulantes, while A. xishuangbannaensis from a tropical nature reserve is classified in subgenus Circumdati, section Nigri, series Japonici. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of both species are provided, and the ecological functions of their habitats are also discussed.
["Aspergillaceae"]
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food"]

Four new species of Trichoderma (Hypocreaceae, Hypocreales) discovered in the staple food bamboo of pandas
Trichoderma fungi are significant saprophytic resources in nature, with only a minority of species documented as pathogenic fungi. Due to their widespread distribution, this genus of fungi has attracted considerable attention in recent years. During an investigation of fungal resources within the staple food bamboo species for giant pandas in China conducted from 2023 to 2024, a high diversity of Trichoderma species was observed. In this study, eight collected specimens were compared morphologically with known species, and DNA sequence analysis was performed using a multi-gene (ITS, tef1-α, and rpb2) dataset to establish phylogenetic relationships, ultimately leading to the identification of four Trichoderma species. The research uncovered four novel Trichoderma species: Trichoderma bashania, T. fargesia, T. mianyangensis and T. yaanensis. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that each of these new species forms a distinct lineage, with Trichoderma bashania, T. fargesia, T. mianyangensis and T. yaanensis all belonging to the Koningii section. All these newly identified species were isolated from the litter of the staple food bamboo species for giant pandas. This study provides morphological descriptions and illustrations of these four new species, along with DNA phylogenetic relationships based on the analysis of the multi-gene dataset. The findings indicate that Trichoderma fungi are widely present in the ecosystem of the staple food bamboo species for giant pandas and warrant close attention.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Fungal Infections and Studies"]

Unexpected species richness of the lichen genus Protoblastenia (Lecanorales, Psoraceae) in Finland
The taxonomy of Protoblastenia in Finland was studied, based on morphology and molecular data (nuITS rDNA sequences). Twenty species were recognised, with sixteen species being newly described here: P. arupii sp. nov., P. borealis sp. nov., P. compressa sp. nov., P. dolomitica sp. nov., P. ekmanii sp. nov., P. fennoarctica sp. nov., P. minuta sp. nov., P. oulankaensis sp. nov., P. pseudocompressa sp. nov., P. pseudoterricola sp. nov., P. remota sp. nov., P. rikkinenii sp. nov., P. saanaensis sp. nov., P. timdalii sp. nov., P. violacea sp. nov. and P. westbergii sp. nov. All species are confined to calcareous rocks, except P. terricola which also grows on calcareous soil. The calcareous fells in Enontekiö in NW Finland were identified as hot spots of Protoblastenia diversity. Nine newly-described species (P. arupii, P. fennoarctica, P. minuta, P. pseudoterricola, P. rikkinenii, P. saanaensis, P. timdalii, P. violacea and P. westbergii) are restricted to this area in Finland. Several of the species are semi-cryptic. On average, they may have minor morphological differences, but many specimens cannot be identified, based on morphology only. Protoblastenia rikkinenii is reported from Norway and P. oulankaensis from Italy, based on GenBank sequences. Full descriptions and a preliminary key of Protoblastenia in Finland are provided.
["Calcareous rocks"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

The subfamily Chalciporoideae (Boletaceae, Boletales) in China
The subfamily Chalciporoideae, an early diverging lineage within Boletaceae (Boletales), is ecologically significant and economically promising. However, research on species diversity within the subfamily in China is still insufficient. In this study, detailed morphological examinations and molecular phylogenetic analyses were conducted on specimens collected from various regions in China. Three genera in Chalciporoideae, viz. Buchwaldoboletus, Chalciporus, and Pseudophylloporus were confirmed to be distributed in China; 16 species of the subfamily were confirmed to occur in China. Among the species recognized in China, four were newly described, viz. Chalciporus aurantiolepidotus, C. brunneus, C. roseus, and Pseudophylloporus castaneus. Two known species were redescribed, and eight other species were reviewed. Keys to the accepted species of Buchwaldoboletus, Chalciporus, and Pseudophylloporus were also provided, respectively.
["Bolete"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Thirty novel fungal lineages: formal description based on environmental samples and DNA
Molecular analyses of soil and water commonly reveal large proportions of fungal taxa that cannot be assigned to any taxonomic or functional groups. Some of these so-called dark taxa have been encoded alphanumerically, while others have remained completely overlooked. Using long-read sequencing that covers much of the ribosomal RNA operon, we shed light on the phylogenetic and ecological distribution of fungal dark taxa and formally describe 30 of the most prominent phylum- to order-level lineages based on their characteristic DNA features. This increases the known large-scale fungal phylogenetic diversity by roughly one-third. Formal names will enhance taxonomic reproducibility, facilitate communication among researchers, and enable the estimation of conservation and quarantine needs for uncultivable species and higher-ranking taxa. The new species in the respective highest-level novel taxonomic groups include Pantelleria saittana (Pantelleriomycetes), Paraspizellomyces parrentiae (Paraspizellomycetales), Aquieurochytrium lacustre (Aquieurochytriomycetes), Edaphochytrium valuojaense (Edaphochytriomycetes), Tibetochytrium taylorii (Tibetochytriomycetes), Tropicochytrium toronegroense (Tropicochytriomycetes), Algovorax scenedesmi (comb. nov.) and Solivorax pantropicus (Algovoracomycetes), Aquamastix sanduskyensis (Aquamastigomycetes), Cantoromastix holarctica (Cantoromastigomycetes), Dobrisimastix vlkii (Dobrisimastigomycetes), Palomastix lacustris (Palomastigomycetes), Sedimentomastix tueriensis (Sedimentomastigomycetes), Terrincola waldropii (Terrincolales), Curlevskia holarctica (Curlevskiomycota), Mycosocceria estonica (Mycosocceriales), Maerjamyces jumpponenii (Maerjamycetes), Ruderalia cosmopolita (Ruderaliomycetes), Bryolpidium mundanum (Bryolpidiomycetes), Chthonolpidium enigmatum (Chthonolpidiomycetes), Savannolpidium raadiense (Savannolpidiomycetes), Gelotisporidium boreale (Gelotisporidiomycetes), Sumavosporidium sylvestre (Sumavosporidiomycetes), Parakickxella borikenica (Parakickxellomycetes), Aldinomyces tarquinii (Aldinomycota), Borikenia urbinae (Borikeniomycota), Mirabilomyces abrukanus (Mirabilomycota), Nematovomyces vermicola (comb. nov.) and N. soinasteënsis (Nematovomycota), Viljandia globalis (Viljandiomycota), Waitukubulimyces cliftonii (Waitukubulimycota), and Tartumyces setoi (Tartumyceta).
["Dark taxa"]

Morphological and phylogenetic evidence reveals three new arthropod-associated species of Hypocreales (Clavicipitaceae, Bionectriaceae, and Myrotheciomycetaceae) from karst habitats in Guizhou, China
The karst regions of southwest China are rich in biodiversity and have critically threatened ecosystems, harboring unique species that could be new to science. During the investigations of arthropods associated-fungi, several fungal strains were collected. Among these, three new species, Conoideocrella tiankengensis sp. nov. (Clavicipitaceae), Ovicillium zunyiense sp. nov. (Bionectriaceae) and Trichothecium sinense sp. nov. (Myrotheciomycetaceae), isolated from a dead scale insect, larva and spider, respectively, were introduced as novel taxa, based on the morphological characteristics and DNA-based phylogenetic analyses. This is the first time that a species from Myrotheciomycetaceae is reported from the karst habitats. In addition, the genus Myrotheciomyces is treated as a synonym of Trichothecium based on the phylogenetic analysis, and the type species of the former is transferred to the latter genus.
["Insect"]
["Plant and fungal interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

New species and records of ascomycetes on cypress in Beijing, China
Cypress, a collective term for plants belonging to the Cupressaceae family, is widely utilized in Chinese landscaping and holds considerable economic and medicinal importance. In recent years, dieback of branches and foliage in cypress has been widespread in the Ming Tombs area of Beijing, yet the associated ascomycetous fungi remain unidentified. During an investigation of the species of ascomycetes associated with three cypress species (Juniperus chinensis, J. procumbens, and Platycladus orientalis) in the Ming Tombs area of Beijing, 22 fungal strains were isolated from withered branches and diseased leaves to healthy strobili and mature cones. Based on integrated morphological and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses, these strains were identified as 13 fungal species belonging to 8 genera. Among these, two novel species—Nigrospora platycladiensis sp. nov. and Spegazzinia juniperi sp. nov.—and two new host records, Aplosporella hesperidica and Nigrospora philosophiae-doctoris, are reported herein. This study contributes to our understanding of the richness of ascomycetes on cypress.

Morphological and molecular identification of new species and records of Daldinia (Hypoxylaceae, Xylariales) from Guizhou Province, China
Members of Daldinia are widely distributed and commonly found on decaying wood, branches, and diseased leaves. In this study, four strains of Daldinia were isolated from diseased leaves of Indocalamus hirsutissimus and Rubus idaeus in Guizhou Province, China. Species identification was conducted using combined nuc rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS), partial sequences of the large subunit (28S), RNA polymerase II subunit 2 (rpb2), and beta-tubulin (tub2) sequence data, along with morphological comparisons. We introduce the new species D. rubi and D. eschscholtzii, accompanied by a new host record on Indocalamus hirsutissimus, supported by both morphological features and molecular evidence. In addition, a comprehensive analysis of D. eschscholtzii’s worldwide host distribution revealed that it spans 56 plant families across 31 countries. This study enhances our understanding of the species diversity of Daldinia and its broad host range, providing a new perspective for taxonomic research.

Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals two new species and two new host records of Diaporthe (Diaporthales, Diaporthaceae) from Phellodendron chinense in Sichuan, China
Diaporthe species are globally distributed with a wide variety of plant hosts inhabiting diverse ecological niches and functioning as endophytes, saprobes and pathogens. Numerous species in this genus are significant pathogens responsible for a wide range of diseases in both agricultural and forest plants. In this study, eight Diaporthe strains were isolated from branches of Phellodendron chinense collected in Sichuan Province, China. Using multi-locus phylogenetic analysis of five gene regions (ITS, tef1-α, tub2, cal and his3), along with morphological characterisation, two novel species — D. phellodendri and D. leshanensis — are introduced in the present study and two new host associations were recorded for D. eucommiigena and D. litseae. This study contributes to the growing understanding of Diaporthe diversity and host associations in China.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal Xenosporidesmiaceae fam. nov, with seven Xenosporidesmium species
This study introduces a new family, Xenosporidesmiaceae, and describes a novel genus, Xenosporidesmium, along with a new species, Xenosporidesmium caohaiense, based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Multi-locus phylogenetic reconstruction (LSU, SSU, ITS, and rpb2) revealed that the new family forms a distinct clade, diverging from Sporidesmiales and Distoseptisporales in Sordariomycetes, and supporting its taxonomic independence. The new species, X. caohaiense, is characterized by dark brown conidiophores and pale brown, distoseptate conidia with mucilaginous sheaths. Additionally, six previously described Sporidesmium species are reclassified into Xenosporidesmium. This study emphasizes the significance of molecular data in resolving taxonomic ambiguities among morphologically similar but phylogenetically divergent fungi, thereby contributing to the understanding of freshwater fungal diversity.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Three new species and two new records of the genus Laccaria (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) from subtropical China based on morphological and multi-locus phylogenetic evidence
Laccaria is a large genus within the family Hydnangiaceae, and many potential species remain to be discovered in China. The present study describes three new species, L. carminostipes, L. mangshanensis and L. sinolateritia, and reports two new records, L. japonica and L. versiforma, which were originally discovered in Japan and Korea, respectively. These species were collected from subtropical mixed forests and identified based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. Our phylogenetic analysis of the concatenated nucleotide sequences of ITS, LSU, TEF1 and RPB2 demonstrated that the three new species each formed a distinct clade, clearly separated from other known Laccaria species. A detailed description and illustrations of these species are also provided.
["Laccaria"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Ophiostoma babimostense and Sporothrix europaea (Ascomycota, Ophiostomatales), two new ophiostomatalean species, associated with ambrosia and bark beetles in Norway and Poland
The order Ophiostomatales includes many species important for forestry, causing plant diseases. They are common associates of bark- and wood-dwelling beetles. Two new ophiostomatalean fungi viz. Ophiostoma babimostense sp. nov. and Sporothrix europaea sp. nov. are proposed, based on morphological characters and multigene phylogenies. Ophiostoma babimostense belongs to the Ophiostoma ulmi species complex and was isolated from fallen shoots of Scots pine pruned by Tomicus species in Poland. The fungus is characterised by the production of a typical pesotum-like and sporothrix-like asexual morphs. Sporothrix europaea belongs to the Sporothrix gossypina complex and was isolated from hardwood-infested by ambrosia and bark beetles in Poland and Norway. It is characterised by the occurrence of both a sexual and asexual morphs, with long necked ascomata bearing ostiolar hyphae and a sporothrix-like asexual morph.
["Beetle-associated fungi"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

A new genus and two new species of Wiesneriomycetaceae (Tubeufiales) from China revealed by molecular phylogeny and taxonomy
While investigating culturable mycobiota in epiphytic soils found in urban tree holes from Guizhou Province, China, a new genus along with two new species of the family Wiesneriomycetaceae were discovered based on a combination of morphological characteristics, molecular evidence, and physiological features. Phylogenetic analyses of SSU, ITS, LSU, and tef1 sequences indicate that our new collections form a distinct clade; thus, Chlamydosporoides gen. nov. is proposed. This genus is distinguished from other genera in Wiesneriomycetaceae by the absence of acropetal conidial chains, setae, synnemata, sporodochia, or stromata. We describe and illustrate the new genus Chlamydosporoides and the new species (C. guizhouensis sp. nov. and C. sinensis sp. nov.) herein, and we discuss their phenotypic and genotypic differences from allied genera.
["Chlamydosporoides"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Three novel species of Cladosporium and Sarocladium isolated from palm trees
Palm trees (Arecaceae) are among the most widely used ornamental plants in southern China. In this study, samples of senescent leaves and petioles from four species of palm plants were collected in Yunnan Province, China, and fungal isolations were performed. Species identification was conducted using a phylogenetic approach based on combined sequence data from the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, large subunit ribosomal DNA (LSU), actin gene (ACT), and translation elongation factor (TEF), together with morphological studies. As a result, three new species—Cladosporium menglunense, Sarocladium menglaense, and S. yunnanense—are proposed. By providing detailed morphological and molecular data, this study lays a foundation for future research on species diversity and diseases of palm plants.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new species of Nigropunctata and the first report of sexual morph of Melanographium citri (Pallidoperidiaceae, Xylariales) from south-western China
In our ongoing survey of xylarialean fungi in southern China, we obtained specimens of Nigropunctata and Melanographium from bamboo and palm, respectively. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analyses, based on five loci (ITS, LSU, rpb2, tub2 and tef-1α), were used to clarify the taxonomic placement of these specimens. Our results confirm that the specimens represent two new species Nigropunctata shiwandashanensis and N. puerzhenensis, as well as a new geographical record, Melanographium citri, which represents the first report of the sexual state for this genus. We provide detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations, as well as a comparison between the new species and related or similar species.
["Ascomycetes"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Two new species of Meliola (Meliolales, Sordariomycetes) from Guizhou Province, China
Meliola is a genus of specialized parasites that grow on the surface of living plant leaves and fruits, potentially impairing host growth, reducing fruit quality and crop yield, and ultimately causing economic losses. In this study, two new species of Meliola from Guizhou Province, China, were identified based on morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses (nrITS, nrLSU, and nrSSU) using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) to clarify their taxonomic placement. The new species, Meliola liboense and M. lindericola, were both found colonizing leaves of Lindera. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree showing the phylogenetic positions of the two new species are provided. These findings enrich the taxonomic diversity of Meliola and contribute valuable morphological and molecular data to improve species delimitation and classification within Meliolaceae.
["Black mildews"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals novel species and new records of Torula (Torulaceae, Pleosporales) from medicinal plants in China
During a saprobic fungi survey in China, five hyphomycetous fungi of Torula (Torulaceae, Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes) were discovered. These taxa were characterized and identified based on morphology, culture characteristics, and phylogenetic analysis of the combined ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 sequence dataset. Consequently, two novel species, Torula dispora and T. strychnicola, are introduced based on the distinct spinulose characteristics on the conidial substrate and the size of conidia. Phylogenetic results indicated that our isolates of T. dispora and T. strychnicola each represent a distinct lineage. Additionally, three new host records of T. chinensis, T. fici, and T. masonii are reported. Based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence, we formally propose the synonymization of T. phytolaccae under T. chinensis. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and informative notes are provided for all species.
["Asexual morph"]

Morphology and phylogeny reveal two new species of pestalotioid fungi associated with hawthorn in Northeast China
Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida), a valuable fruit tree with significant economic and ecological importance, is cultivated across numerous regions in China. In this study, we describe two novel saprobic fungi Sporocadus changchunensis and S. crataegicola. The novelty of these species is supported by both morphological characteristics and analyses using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI). Sporocadus crataegicola formed a distinct clade from S. changchunensis and S. rotundatus with 98% ML and 1.00 BPP statistical support, and the morphological character of S. crataegicola is remarkable in its distinguishable shape of ascospores and fewer septa. Sporocadus changchunensis differs from S. italicus, which was also found on Crataegus, by its narrower ostiolar canal, wider hamathecium, and smaller asci. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, the large subunit (LSU) of ribosomal DNA, the RNA polymerase II subunit (rpb2), the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α), and β-tubulin (tub2) genes were used for the phylogenetic analyses. An inoculation experiment was also performed to determine the possibility of latent pathogens on C. pinnatifida. The inoculation experiment showed that the species caused black spots on the mature leaves of hawthorn. We hypothesize that saprobes possess potential pathogenic ability that may lead to the occurrence of plant diseases under various circumstances. This study also extends the knowledge of the host range and geographic distribution of Sporocadus species in China.
["Crataegus pinnatifida"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Botanical Studies and Applications"]

Discovering the diversity of Acarosporaceae (Acarosporales, Lecanoromycetes) with carbonized epihymenial accretions in North America
Six new species are described: Acarospora anthracina, A. austrooccidentalis, A. oscurensis, and A. profusa from southwestern North America; A. aquatica from wetlands in eastern North America; and A. minuta from the Holarctic flora of Canada. In total, 13 species of Acarosporaceae with carbonized epihymenial accretions are known from North America. No European taxa of Acarospora or Sarcogyne with carbonized epihymenial accretions were found in North America, except A. lapponica, which is part of the Holarctic flora in Alaska, and the lichenicolous calciphyte Sarcogyne pusilla. A key to North American Acarosporaceae with carbonized epihymenial accretions is provided. Sarcogyne joshuaensis is transferred to Acarospora.
["Beta-tubulin"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Additions to woody litter fungi of Byssosphaeria, Phaeoseptum and Pseudothyridariella (Pleosporales, Ascomycota) from China
Pleosporales, the largest order within Ascomycota, is globally distributed and exhibits remarkable host diversity. Fagaceae, a plant family of significant ecological importance in the Northern Hemisphere, harbors a wide array of fungal species. During an investigation of pleosporalean fungi associated with woody litter from Fagaceae plants, dead wood samples with fungal fruiting bodies were collected in Henan and Jiangxi provinces, China. In this study, we describe two novel species, Pseudothyridariella fagacearum and Phaeoseptum biyangense, and report a new host record for Byssosphaeria siamensis. These taxa are formally characterized using an integrative taxonomic approach, which combines detailed morphological characterization with maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) phylogenetic analyses of multi-locus sequence data (ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb2, and tef1-α). The newly designated species can be morphologically distinguished from other members of the respective genera based on the size of the asci and ascospores. This comprehensive study enhances our understanding of microfungi associated with Fagaceae, contributing to the knowledge of China’s biodiversity.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

A synopsis of the genus Pulvinora Davydov, Yakovcz. & Printzen (Lecanoraceae, Lecanorales)
This study shows that Lecanora cavicola and L. subcavicola are closely related to the recently described genus Pulvinora. These taxa are nested in a sister position to the known Pulvinora spp. in a phylogenetic reconstruction based on three loci: mtSSU, nuITS, and nuLSU. The clade incorporating all the above-mentioned taxa is shown to be monophyletic and strongly supported. Consequently, a broader circumscription of the genus is proposed, along with two new taxonomic combinations: Pulvinora cavicola (Creveld) Mazur & Śliwa and Pulvinora subcavicola (B.D. Ryan) Mazur & Śliwa. Additionally, based on similarity to other members of Pulvinora, a new combination for Lecanora brandegeei is made. A key for the identification of all Pulvinora species is provided as well.
["Lichenized fungi"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Three new species of Clavariadelphus (Clavariadelphaceae, Gomphales) from the Hengduan Mountains region, China
Specimens of three unnamed club-shaped fungi, collected from the Hengduan Mountains region in China, are formally described as Clavariadelphus acuminatus, C. miniatus, and C. pseudoelongatus. Based on ITS, nrLSU, ATP6, and TEF1 sequence data, a multigene phylogenetic analysis indicated that the three new species each formed a distinct lineage within the Clavariadelphus clade with strong support. Descriptions, illustrations, and the results of molecular phylogenetic analyses for the three newly discovered species are presented. A taxonomic key for the known Clavariadelphus species in China is provided.
["Club-shaped fungi"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

Morphology, chemistry, and phylogeny reveal three new species of Lecidea (Lecideaceae) from China
Three new species, Lecidea flavothallia, L. sublaboriosa, and L. tibetica, are reported from China based on morphological, chemical, and molecular characters. Lecidea flavothallia is characterized by an orange thallus and the presence of schizopeltic acid. Lecidea sublaboriosa is characterized by a sparsely developed thallus, brown hypothecium, and the presence of 4-O-demethylplanaic acid in the apothecia. Lecidea tibetica is characterized by a well-developed thallus, I+ violet medulla, hyaline to pale straw-colored hypothecium, and the presence of 2′-O-methyperlatolic acid as the major secondary metabolite. All of the new species were collected from the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau in Southwest China. Detailed descriptions, discussions, and figures are provided for each species, along with a key for all known Chinese Lecidea s. str. species.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The phylogeny and taxonomy of Violella (Tephromelataceae, lichenized Ascomycota), including a new species from China
Violella yunnanensis C. J. Zhong & L. Hu is described as new to science. It is characterized by its esorediate, areolate to weakly warted thallus, hymenium heavily pigmented with Fucatus-violet pigment, brownish inner ascospore walls, and its chemistry (atranorin and fumarprotocetraric acid). In addition, we collected specimens of Mycoblastus sinensis Kantvilas and Violella wangii T. Sprib. & Goffinet from the holotype localities. Mycoblastus sinensis is transferred to the genus Violella based on its morphology, chemistry and phylogeny, and it is proposed as Violella sinensis (Kantvilas) C. J. Zhong & L. Hu. The morphological descriptions, pictures and molecular phylogenetic analyses of the species are provided, along with a key to the Violella species known from world.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Two new species and a new host record of Hyphomycetes associated with decaying wood in Yunnan Province, China
In recent years, there has been certain progress in the research on fungal diversity in Yunnan Province, China, particularly in aquatic habitats. This study introduces two new species, Ellisembia yuxiense and Sporidesmium ailaoshanense, as well as a new host record of Sporidesmium tropicale on Pinus yunnanensis from freshwater habitats in Yunnan Province. All taxa were identified by integrating morphological traits with phylogenetic analysis of combined LSU, ITS, and rpb2 DNA sequences. Comprehensive morpho-anatomical descriptions and detailed illustrations are provided to elucidate the characteristics of each taxon.

Two new species of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) from Actinidia chinensis in Guizhou Province, China
Diaporthe spp. are well known to be plant pathogens, endophytes, or saprophytes on a wide range of economically significant crops, ornamental plants, and forest trees. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the diversity of Diaporthe species, which cause kiwifruit soft rot in Guizhou Province. Five strains of fungi were isolated from kiwifruit infected with soft rot in Guizhou province. These strains were identified using morphological and multilocus sequences analysis of the rDNA internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), calmodulin (cal), histone H3 (his3), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1), and β-tubulin (tub2). The results confirmed two new species – D. shuichengensis sp. nov. and D. liupanshuiensis sp. nov. This study identifies two new soft-rot pathogens of kiwifruit and provides a reference for future disease-management studies.
["Diaporthaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

Two new species and one asexual morph record of Paraisaria (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) from China
Paraisaria is a genus within Ophiocordycipitaceae, primarily parasitising insect groups such as ants (Hymenoptera), moth larvae (Lepidoptera) and beetle larvae (Coleoptera). The genus is characterised by cylindrical stipes, subglobose to globose fertile heads with immersed perithecia, hyaline, multi-septate ascospores and irregularly branched conidiophores with flask-shaped phialides and cylindrical to fusiform conidia. Paraisaria is globally distributed, primarily inhabiting tropical and subtropical locations; however, it has also demonstrated adaptability to temperate climates. This study introduces two novel species and reports one asexual morph of Paraisaria from China, providing detailed descriptions, illustrations and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Morphological examination reveals clear distinctions between the new species and previously described taxa. Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses (LSU, ITS, SSU, tef-1α, rpb1 and rpb2) corroborate their uniqueness, offering new insights into the diversity and evolutionary dynamics of the genus.
["Entomopathogenic fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two new species of Neohelicomyces (Tubeufiales, Tubeufiaceae) from China
Neohelicomyces is a genus of helicosporous hyphomycetes with the potential to produce bioactive secondary metabolites. During a survey of helicosporous fungi in Guizhou and Hainan provinces, southern China, four isolates were obtained from both freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Based on combined analyses of multigene phylogenetic data (ITS, LSU, tef1-α, and rpb2) and morphological characteristics, two novel species, Neohelicomyces aquisubtropicus and N. wuzhishanensis, are proposed. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses of the new taxa are presented. Additionally, a checklist of currently accepted Neohelicomyces species supported by molecular data is provided.
["2 new species"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Morphology and multi-locus phylogeny reveal four new Candolleomyces (Psathyrellaceae) species from Pakistan
In this study, four new species of the genus Candolleomyces are described from Pakistan. Based on morphological and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses, we confirmed the distinction of these taxa. The newly identified species are designated as Candolleomyces conicus, C. denticulatus, C. kanhattiensis, and C. swaticus. The distinction of these species from previously known taxa in the genus was verified through comparisons of morphological features and phylogenetic analyses. Three of these species were collected from tropical plains, whereas C. swaticus was found in temperate mountainous regions. This distribution highlights the adaptability of the genus to diverse ecological niches across the country. A key to the Pakistani Candolleomyces species is also provided.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Four new species of the lichen genus Diorygma (Graphidaceae, Ostropales) from Guizhou, China
Four new species of the lichen genus Diorygma from China are described based on morphological, chemical, and phylogenetic evidence. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using both RAxML and Bayesian posterior probability inference, based on combined LSU and mtSSU sequences. The characteristic compounds were analyzed by colorimetric reactions and thin-layer chromatography. Diorygma guizhouense is characterized by small apothecia, a narrow to slightly open disc covered with white pruina, and the presence of stictic, salazinic, and norstictic acids. Diorygma leigongshanense is characterized by small, oval apothecia, a disc surrounded by entire, raised, and widely open thalline margins covered with thin, pale yellowish pruina, and the same chemical substances as D. guizhouense. Diorygma locitonitrus is distinguished by the presence of salazinic acid and hyaline, richly muriform ascospores, notably with distinctly smaller peripheral cells compared to the central cells. Diorygma weii is characterized by stellately branched apothecia with a closed to slit-like disc, a milky white thallus tinged with green, and the presence of only norstictic acid. Detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations of the new species are provided, along with a comprehensive species checklist highlighting the diagnostic characteristics of the known species in this genus.

Species diversity and systematic taxonomy of Sarcosomataceae (Ascomycota, Pezizales), with an emphasis on subtropical regions of China
The aim of this study is to update the species diversity of Sarcosomataceae in subtropical China. Taxonomic and phylogenetic studies were carried out through ecological observation, morphological examination, and molecular phylogenetic analyses inferred from five molecular loci (ITS + nrLSU + rpb1 + rpb2 + tef1-α). By using Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) methods, six lignicolous species were identified, including four novel taxa: Plectania damingshanensis sp. nov., Plectania huapingensis sp. nov., Pseudoplectania aureonigrescens sp. nov., and Urnula auricularioides sp. nov.; and two new distribution records: Plectania lutea and Urnula ailaoshanensis. Keys to species of Plectania, Pseudoplectania, and Urnula were provided.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Alternaria phoenicis sp. nov. and Alternaria ouedrighensis sp. nov. (Pleosporales, Pleosporaceae): Two new species associated with leaf spot and blight diseases of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is one of the oldest fruit crops grown in the semi-arid and arid regions, playing significant ecological, environmental and socio-economic roles. Recently, palm leaf spot and blight diseases have indeed emerged as significant threats to phoeniciculture. They reduce yield and quality of dates leading to economic losses. Therefore, a survey was conducted in four palm groves located in the Biskra and Ghardaia provinces of Algeria. This investigation revealed two new Alternaria species associated with leaf spot and blight symptoms on date palm. These newly identified species are designated as A. phoenicis sp. nov. and A. ouedrighensis sp. nov., which belong to the Ulocladioides and Embellisia sections, respectively. The isolates were phylogenetically identified using the key genetic markers of the genus including the large subunit ribosomal DNA (LSU), internal transcribed spacer region of the ribosomal RNA (ITS), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), RNA polymerase II subunit (RPB2), translation elongation factor (TEF1) and plasma membrane (ATPase) genes and illustrated based on the morphological characteristics.
["Alternaria"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Plant Pathogen Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Three new taxa of lichen genus Trimmatothelopsis (Acarosporales, Acarosporaceae) from China
Three new species Trimmatothelopsis anthracina, T. knudsenii, and T. shandongensis are reported from the eastern coast of China, based on morphological, chemical and molecular data (ITS, LSU, and mtSSU). All three new species have IKI+ blue ascus. Trimmatothelopsis anthracina is characterized by carbonized apothecia, a biofilm at the immature apothecia base, and IKI+ blue turning red hymenial gel. Trimmatothelopsis knudsenii is characterized by rimose thallus, numerous reddish brown apothecia, and IKI+ blue turning red hymenial gel. Trimmatothelopsis shandongensis is characterized by dull brown thallus, thick hymenium, IKI+ red hymenial gel, and small asci. Comprehensive descriptions, detailed illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis of the new taxa are presented. Additionally, a worldwide key to Trimmatothelopsis species, including 21 species, is provided.
["Ascus stains"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

A new revision of the lichen genus Pleopsidium (Acarosporales, Acarosporaceae) in China reveals two new species
Based on a combination of morphological, chemical, and phylogenetic analyses, we present a new revision of the lichen genus Pleopsidium in China. Pleopsidium tumidulum sp. nov. and P. corrugatulum sp. nov. are proposed as new species to science, both included in a distinctive clade (clade 1) together with P. gobiense. These three species are characterized by the absence of fatty acids, acaranoic and acarenoic acids, and share similar ecological traits. In contrast, species containing fatty acids, including Pleopsidium flavum, P. chlorophanum, and P. discurrens, constitute a separate clade (clade 2). Fresh specimens of Pleopsidium discurrens were collected from the type locality, Yulong Snow Mountain, and molecular data were generated to confirm the phylogenetic position of the species. Our study additionally reveals substantial morphological variation in this species. New collections and sequences of Pleopsidium gobiense from Hami City, the type locality, are provided, from which a neotype is designated, confirming its phylogenetic position. Differences in morphology, anatomy, chemistry, and ecology among Pleopsidium species from China are discussed. A key and several phylograms are provided.
["Lichenized fungi"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Additions of New Endolichenic Fungi to Herpotrichiellaceae (Chaetothyriales, Ascomycota) from northern Thailand
Endolichenic fungi associated with lichen thalli in Thailand are poorly known in terms of species diversity. During a study conducted in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, in 2023, eight endolichenic fungal strains were isolated from healthy thalli of the foliose lichen, Parmotrema sp. These eight strains were identified as members of the family Herpotrichiellaceae using a combination of three nuclear ribosomal regions (ITS, LSU, and SSU), tub2 sequence data, and morphological characteristics. Two strains of Atrokylindriopsis racemosospora and three strains of Veronaea endolichena were identified as new species within the Herpotrichiellaceae, while three other strains were identified as the previously known species Phialophora chinensis. This study provides the first report of P. chinensis as an endolichenic fungal taxon and its first discovery in Thailand. Descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic placements of these eight strains are provided. Additionally, a discussion and update on the ecology and genera within the Herpotrichiellaceae are included. The findings of this study offer valuable information that enriches the diversity of endolichenic species associated with lichens in Thailand and contributes to enhancing our understanding of the ecology and taxonomy of the Herpotrichiellaceae.
["Chaetothyriales"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

New species of Vamsapriya (Vamsapriyaceae, Xylariales) and Neolinocarpon (Linocarpaceae, Chaetosphaeriales) from Yunnan, China
During a survey of ascomycetes in southwestern China, three new bambusicolous fungi were collected and identified as members of the genera Neolinocarpon and Vamsapriya. The newly identified species are designated Neolinocarpon bambusicola sp. nov., Vamsapriya tongluobaensis sp. nov., and V. zhaotongensis sp. nov., delineated through an analysis of both morpho-anatomical characteristics and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tub2 sequence data. The distinction of these species from their known counterparts was verified through comparisons of morphological characters and phylogenetic analyses. Comprehensive morphological descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree showing the placement of the new taxa are provided.
["Ascomycetes"]

Two new species of Phaeoclavulina (Gomphaceae, Gomphales) from North China based on morphological and phylogenetic analysis
Two new species, Phaeoclavulina aurea and P. fulva, were discovered and described from North China. Identification was based on morphological observations combined with phylogenetic analysis of nrITS–nrLSU sequences. Phaeoclavulina aurea is characterized by its pale yellow to golden yellow basidiomata, brownish black coloration with dark tips at maturity, and basidiospores bearing truncate spines. Phaeoclavulina fulva is distinguished by its dirty orange basidiomata, pale yellow stipe surface, and basidiospores ornamented with rounded warts. This study enriches the species diversity of Phaeoclavulina in North China.
["Clavarioid fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two novel species of Curvularia (Pleosporales, Pleosporaceae) from southern China
Members of Curvularia are of widespread clinical and agricultural importance, but species identification remains challenging due to morphological similarities and environmental variation. In this study, nine Curvularia strains were isolated from diseased leaves of Nelumbo nucifera and Nicotiana tabacum in Guangxi and Guizhou provinces, China. Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, GAPDH, and tef1-α sequences revealed two novel species of Curvularia s. str., described here as C. nuciferae sp. nov. and C. tabaci sp. nov. This study enhances understanding of Curvularia taxonomy and expands the known species diversity.
["Dematiaceous hyphomycetes"]

Chlorencoelia (Leotiomycetes, Helotiales, Cenangiaceae) in New Zealand
Chlorencoelia , a genus of saprotrophic, wood-inhabiting fungi, has long been considered to include only a few species with wide geographic distributions. Recent DNA sequencing and morphological analyses of specimens from New Zealand, deposited in the New Zealand Fungarium (PDD), have revealed that all local collections previously identified as C. torta or C. versiformis represent three distinct species, two of them previously unnamed. These species include C. olivacea, originally described from Tasmania, together with the newly named C. australis and C. northlandica. Chlorencoelia australis has been found in both Australia and New Zealand. These species exhibit subtle yet unique morphological characteristics, including differences in ascospore size and shape, lipid body arrangements, the shape of tomentum hyphae, and the colour of refractive vacuolar bodies in the paraphyses and tomentum hyphae. Phylogenetic analyses confirm the divergence of these New Zealand and Australian species from previously described taxa. This study underscores the hidden diversity within Chlorencoelia and highlights the importance of integrating genetic and morphological data to refine fungal taxonomy.

Yamadazyma akebiae sp. nov. and Y. hainanensis sp. nov. (Debaryomycetaceae, Saccharomycetales) from leaf in China
Members of the genus Yamadazyma are widely distributed and frequently found in plant materials. In an effort to investigate the species diversity within this genus, leaf samples collected from Guizhou and Hainan provinces in China were examined. This study led to the discovery of two previously undescribed taxa. Phenotypic examination, combined with phylogenetic analysis based on concatenated ITS and LSU D1/D2 sequences, confirmed their affiliation with Yamadazyma and supported their designation as novel species. One of the new species, Yamadazyma akebiae sp. nov., is phylogenetically closely related to Y. kanchanaburiensis, whereas Y. hainanensis sp. nov. represents a distinct lineage, clearly separated from other known Yamadazyma species. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and comparative discussions with their nearest relatives are provided. These findings contribute two additional species to the genus and enhance our understanding of Yamadazyma diversity in China.
["Ascomycetous yeast"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two novel Tuber species (Tuberaceae, Pezizales) from southwestern China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, two new species, Tuber marroninum and Tuber conditum, belonging to the Latisporum group, were described from Yunnan province of southwest China. Morphologically, Tuber marroninum is distinguished from other Latisporum species by whitish and glabrous ascomata and a two-layered peridium, measuring 150–200 µm in total thickness, with an outer layer ranging from 40–60 µm. Tuber conditum is diagnosed by its thinner peridium (120–200 µm) and larger ascospores (49–66.5 × 34.5–60 μm in one-spored asci). According to the outcome of the ITS rDNA sequence analysis, the species of T. marroninum and T. conditum each form a distinct and well-supported group within the Latisporum group, respectively.

Pseudobaorangia (Boletaceae, Boletales), a new genus for Boletus lakhanpalii
Bolete specimens collected in Baima Snow Mountain Nature Reserve, Yunnan Province, were identified as Pseudobaorangia lakhanpalii, based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses. The ITS sequences of our collections exhibited a high similarity with Boletus lakhanpalii (99.53% for KEF13271 and 99.44% for KEF13272). However, because of limited molecular data and complex taxonomic relationships of Boletaceae, the phylogenetic placement of B. lakhanpalii could not be clearly determined. This study conducted a phylogenetic analysis by combining nrLSU, RPB2 and TEF1-α genes, and the results showed that this species has a close phylogenetic relationship with Baorangia, sharing some morphological characteristics, but also having several highlighting differences. Therefore, a new genus Pseudobaorangia is proposed with P. lakhanpalii as the type species and its detailed description is provided.
["Baorangia"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of Irpicaceae and Meruliaceae (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) with descriptions of four new species from southwestern China
Wood-decaying fungi play crucial roles as decomposers in forest ecosystems. In this study, four new wood-inhabiting fungi from Yunnan Province of southwest China—Crystallicutis albomarginata, Efibula glossophora, E. punctata, and Scopuloides farinacea—are described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular evidence. The species C. albomarginata is characterized by its slightly pink to orange basidiomata when dry, a monomitic hyphal system with simple septa, and narrowly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 3.7–4.4 × 1.9–2.8 µm. The taxon E. glossophora is characterized by its hard, membranous, slightly yellow to yellow basidiomata; a monomitic hyphal system with simple-septate generative hyphae; and ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 3.8–6 × 2.6–3.7 µm. The species E. punctata is characterized by its membranaceous, slightly gray to pale brown basidiomata; a monomitic hyphal system with simple-septate generative hyphae; and ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 4.3–6.2 × 2.2–3.3 µm. Additionally, the taxon S. farinacea is characterized by its coriaceous, pale cream to buff basidiomata; a monomitic hyphal system with simple-septate generative hyphae; and ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 2.8–3.5 × 1.4–2 µm. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), the large subunit nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (nLSU), the translation elongation factor 1-α gene (TEF1), the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB1), and the second subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPB2) of the studied samples were employed, and phylogenetic analyses were performed using maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods, ensuring the robustness of the findings. Based on the combined ITS + nLSU + RPB1 + RPB2 + TEF1 dataset, phylogenies of the two families Irpicaceae and Meruliaceae were constructed. In these analyses, Crystallicutis albomarginata was recovered as sister to C. serpens; E. punctata as sister to E. intertexta; Efibula glossophora as closely related to E. intertexta and E. hainanensis; and the new species S. farinacea as sister to S. allantoidea.
["Four new species"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Three new species of Carlosrosaea (Trimorphomycetaceae, Tremellales) from China
Carlosrosaea is a genus of plant-associated yeasts within the family Trimorphomycetaceae of the order Tremellales. Currently, eight species have been described and accepted as members of the genus Carlosrosaea. In this study, six Carlosrosaea strains were isolated from the surface of leaves of the genera Camellia, Distylium, Glechoma, and Glochidion, collected in Fujian, Guizhou, Hainan, and Henan provinces. Based on phylogenetic analyses and phenotypic characterization, these strains were identified as three new Carlosrosaea species: C. camelliae sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33566T), C. glechomae sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33632T), and C. wuzhiensis sp. nov. (holotype GDMCC 2.526T). Descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic data of these new taxa are provided. This study enhances knowledge of Carlosrosaea species diversity in China and provides a foundation for future taxonomic and ecological research.

Morphology and multigene phylogeny reveals five new species of Hydnaceae (Cantharellales, Basidiomycota) from China
Wood-inhabiting fungi play a fundamental role in ecosystem processes, particularly in wood degradation and the recycling of organic matter. In this study, a new genus, Clavuliella gen. nov., and five new species, viz. Burgella albofarinacea sp. nov., B. fissurata sp. nov., Burgoa wumengshanensis sp. nov., Clavuliella sinensis sp. nov., and Sistotrema sinense sp. nov., are described from China and illustrated based on morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Sequences of the ITS+nLSU genes were used for the phylogenetic analyses using Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony, and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylogram of the family Hydnaceae, based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions, included four genera; Burgella, Burgoa, Clavuliella and Sistotrema. The topology based on these sequences revealed that Burgella albofarinacea was closely related to B. flavoparmeliae, and B. fissurata was grouped with B. lutea. The taxon Burgoa wumengshanensis was sister to the clade that included B. anomala and B. verzuoliana. The species Sistotrema sinense was grouped closely with S. brinkmannii and S. farinaceum. All new taxa can be readily recognized by their macroscopic and anatomical characteristics. The five new species, closely related taxa in the phylogenetic tree, and morphologically similar species are discussed.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Unveiling species diversity within early-diverging fungi from China IV: Four new species of Absidia (Cunninghamellaceae, Mucoromycota)
To investigate early-diverging fungi in soil from Yunnan Province, China, four novel species of the genus Absidia were discovered based on a combination of morphological characteristics, molecular evidence, and physiological features. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of SSU–ITS–LSU–Act–TEF1α sequences indicate that Absidia arrhiza sp. nov., A. simplex sp. nov., A. sphaerica sp. nov., and A. viridis sp. nov. are closely related to A. chinensis, A. panacisoli, A. medulla, and A. varians, respectively. A. arrhiza is named for the sparse presence of rhizoids. A. simplex refers to the simple branching of its sporangiophores. A. sphaerica is characterized by its spherical columellae. A. viridis is distinctive for its light green colony. These four new species are described and illustrated herein, and their phenotypic and genotypic differences from allied species are discussed.
["Basal fungi"]

Three new species of Agaricus (Agaricaceae, Agaricales) from southern China
The genus Agaricus is the most species-rich genus within the Agaricaceae, comprising more than 500 species globally. Here, we describe three new species of Agaricus based on morphological and multi-locus (ITS + nrLSU + tef1-α) phylogenetic analyses: Agaricus aurantifibrillosus, A. fafuinus and A. shenzhenensis. Agaricus aurantifibrillosus and A. fafuinus were collected at Fujian province, while A. shenzhenensis was discovered in Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province. The morphological descriptions of each new species are accompanied by basidiomata photographs, and illustrations of microscopic structures.
["Agaricus"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Three new species of Neopestalotiopsis and Pseudopestalotiopsis (Sporocadaceae, Amphisphaeriales) associated with shrub leaf diseases from Fujian, China
Neopestalotiopsis and Pseudopestalotiopsis are classified as pestalotioid fungi, include a diverse range of plant pathogenic, endophytic and saprobic species and are widely distributed in tropical and temperate climates. These fungi are associated with a wide variety of plants worldwide and are exemplified by multi-septate conidia with appendages at both ends. Phytopathogenic members cause various plant diseases, for example, leaf spot, fruit rot, canker, blight and various infections affecting palm, mango, blueberry, tea and other important crops. In this study, six isolates were collected from diseased leaves of Litsea verticillata, Ixora chinensis and an unidentified shrub in Fujian Province, China. Based on morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses of combined nucleotide sequences of internal transcribed spacer regions of rDNA (ITS), the partial translation elongation factor 1-alpha gene (tef1) and partial beta-tubulin gene (tub2), three new species Neopestalotiopsis litseae sp. nov., Neo. longqishanensis sp. nov. and Pseudopestalotiopsis zhangzhouensis sp. nov. are described and illustrated herein.

Cytospora longdensis sp. nov. and C. sinensis (Diaporthales, Valsaceae) associated with Populus alba subsp. pyramidalis canker and dieback in China
Poplar is an important afforestation tree species globally and is widely cultivated in northern China. During a small-scale local disease survey in Ningxia, China, canker and dieback symptoms were observed in Populus alba subsp. pyramidalis trees. The aim of this study was to identify the isolates associated with the symptoms observed and evaluate their pathogenicity on Populus alba subsp. pyramidalis, Malus domestica cv. ‘Fuji’ and Pyrus bretschneideri. Based on multi-gene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, act, rpb2, tef1-α, and tub2) and morphological comparisons, two Cytospora species were identified: C. sinensis and a novel species described here as C. longdensis sp. nov. Pathogenicity assays confirmed both species were pathogenic to Populus alba subsp. pyramidalis, with C. sinensis exhibiting significantly stronger virulence than C. longdensis (p < 0.05). In contrast, their pathogenicity on Malus domestica cv. ‘Fuji’ and Pyrus bretschneideri was negligible, indicating their host preference for Populus alba subsp. pyramidalis. This study highlights the host-specific adaptation of Cytospora species and provides critical insights for managing Populus alba subsp. pyramidalis canker and dieback diseases.
["Host preference"]

New insights into Lactocollybia (Agaricales, Basidiomycota): Morpho-phylogenetic analyses revealing two interesting species and one new record from Thailand and evidence of intercontinental conspecificity
The genus Lactocollybia (incertae sedis, Agaricales) is a small and relatively understudied group of mushrooms, exhibiting unique morphological and ecological characteristics. Most species have a saprobic lifestyle, distributed in tropical to subtropical regions. Currently, the phylogenetic relationships of species remain poorly understood due to insufficient DNA sequence data of existing species. This study is an integrative approach, combining morphological characteristics and molecular analyses using nrITS and two-locus (nrITS-nrLSU) phylogenetic estimation. For the latter, we tested phylogenetic lineages of publicly available nrITS sequences and six samples from Thailand. Our phylogenies have revealed that Thai samples are placed in three phylogenetic clades, in which one of them is proposed as a new species, L. polyhabitata, whereas L. variicystis is reported for the first time from Thailand, suggesting a broader distribution of this species in the tropical region. Another species, L. cf. epia, has been critically analyzed for its affinity towards L. epia. All studied species are placed in phylogenetic clades with a multitude of collections from different continents, which suggests the evidence of intercontinental conspecificity across tropical and subtropical regions.

Three new species of Sanguinoderma (Ganodermataceae, Basidiomycota) from Southwest China revealed by morphology and phylogenetic analysis
Sanguinoderma (Ganodermataceae) is an economically significant genus with notable medicinal value. A key diagnostic characteristic is the reddening of pores upon bruising. The genus is mainly distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, where it grows on the surface of humus or decaying tree trunks. In this study, during a survey of macrofungi in southwestern China, seven Sanguinoderma specimens were collected. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis combined with six-loci of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), nuclear ribosomal large subunit (LSU), RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α), mitochondrial small subunit (mtSSU), and nuclear small subunit (nSSU), three new species of Sanguinoderma are identified and introduced: Sanguinoderma aurantiacus, S. bambusae, and S. niger. Sanguinoderma aurantiacus is characterized by a glabrous pileus with alternating concentric zones that range from black to dark orange; margins are dark red, acute, wavy, and slightly incurved when dry; the pileus context is thin, light grayish, and corky; and basidiospores are ellipsoid to subglobose ((10.0–13.5) × (8.9–10.9) μm). Sanguinoderma bambusae grows on the forest floor in bamboo forests; it has an oval to subcircular, glabrous pileus with a lacerated margin resembling sparse petals; the pores are small (6–9 per mm) and oval to circular; and basidiospores are broadly ellipsoid ((10.1–14.4) × (8.6–11.6) µm). Sanguinoderma niger is characterized by a black to dark grayish orange pileus, and its context is soft and corky, turning grayish orange when dry. Cystidia are oblong to ovoid, and basidiospores are subglobose to globose ((8.9–12.6) × (8.0–10.0) µm). This study has enriched the diversity of the Sanguinoderma species.
["3 novel taxa"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Two new acremonium-like species, Paragibellulopsis sinensis sp. nov. and Phialoparvum sinense sp. nov. (Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota) from China
Paragibellulopsis and Phialoparvum, both erected in 2018, currently comprise merely one and three validly published species, respectively. The identification of two new species, Paragibellulopsis sinensis and Phialoparvum sinense, was achieved by analyzing morphological characteristics and phylogenetic data obtained from four molecular markers (ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tef-1α). Morphologically, Pa. sinensis possessed short conidiogenous cells and aseptate and smaller conidia. On the other hand, Ph. sinense had obovate conidia and longer phialides. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Pa. sinensis formed an independent branch as a sister species to Pa. chrysanthemi, whereas Ph. sinense clustered in a monophyletic clade with a stable topology. The maximum likelihood bootstrap ratio and the Bayesian inference posterior probability provided robust statistical evidence, indicating the presence of two novel species within the genera of Paragibellulopsis and Phialoparvum. The present study contributes to the discovery of species diversity in Paragibellulopsis and Phialoparvum.
["Acremonium-like species"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A new genus and three new species of Lycoperdaceae (Agaricales) from Southern China revealed by molecular phylogeny and taxonomy
Lycoperdaceae (Agaricales, Agaricomycetes) is a taxonomically significant fungal family based on the globally distributed and morphologically defined puffball structures. In the present study, one new genus, Lycoperdia, and three new species, viz. Calvatia phlebioides, Lycoperdia tomentosa, and Morganella minima, collected from southern China are proposed based on a combination of morphological characteristics and molecular evidence. Calvatia phlebioides is characterized by broadly obpyriform to turbinate basidiomes and globose to subglobose basidiospores with a short pedicel. Lycoperdia tomentosa is characterized by pyriform basidiomes, tomentose exoperidium, and globose to subglobose basidiospores with a long pedicel. Morganella minima is characterized by tiny basidiomes (5–8 mm in diameter, 3–7 mm in height), globose to subglobose basidiospores with distinct spines, and a short pedicel (<0.5 μm). Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS), nuclear large subunit ribosomal RNA (nLSU), and RNA polymerase second largest subunit (rpb2) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated, and the phylogenetic analyses were performed with maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. The results showed that our collections were clustered within the family Lycoperdaceae. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS+nLSU sequences revealed that all four new taxa were clustered into the family Lycoperdaceae, in which Lycoperdia tomentosa formed a monophyletic lineage. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS+nLSU+rpb2 sequences revealed that one new taxon, Calvatia phlebioides, was clustered into the genus Calvatia, sister to C. longisetulosa. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS+nLSU sequences revealed that Morganella minima was clustered into the genus Morganella, forming a monophyletic lineage. Full morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results for the new genus and three new species are provided.

Discover hidden taxa of Erysiphe section Erysiphe fungi (Ascomycota, Erysiphaceae) based on morphology and multilocus phylogeny in China
Erysiphe sect. Erysiphe, a taxonomically significant group within the genus Erysiphe, is distinguished from other Erysiphe sections by its mycelioid chasmothecial appendages. While approximately half of the known species in this section occur in China, our preliminary assessments suggest that a substantial number of cryptic taxa remain undetected. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a comprehensive phylogeographic survey evaluating 78 specimens collected from 18 provinces (municipalities/autonomous regions) across China. Our integrative approach combined morphological characterization with molecular phylogenetic analyses using five DNA loci: internal transcribed spacer (ITS), 28S rDNA, intergenic spacer (IGS), RNA polymerase II subunit 2 (RPB2), and β-tubulin (TUB). This study led to the discovery of three newly described species (E. clematidis sp. nov. on Clematis spp., E. limoniicola sp. nov. on Limonium spp., and E. paeoniae-suffruticosae sp. nov. on Paeonia × suffruticosa and two newly recorded species from China (E. malvae on Malva pusilla and E. punicae on Punica granatum). Notably, our phylogenetic framework demonstrates that incorporating IGS, RPB2, and TUB markers substantially enhances species-level resolution and provides critical insights into cryptic speciation within powdery mildews.
["Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Four novel endolichenic fungi from Usnea spp. (Lecanorales, Parmeliaceae) in Yunnan and Guizhou, China: Taxonomic description and preliminary assessment of bioactive potentials
Usnea is one of the largest and most diverse genera of fruticose lichens with global distribution. Endolichenic fungi, which thrive within lichen thalli, have emerged as a promising source of bioactive compounds, with the ability to synthesise a variety of metabolites with biopharmaceutical potential. In this study, four isolates of endolichenic fungi isolated from Usnea spp. were identified using comprehensive multi-gene phylogenetic analyses. These isolates were evaluated for their anticancer, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, as well as for their ability to produce extracellular enzymes. Our findings revealed that the isolates represent four novel species, named as Amphisphaeria falcata, Kirschsteiniothelia tumidula, Neoroussoella annulata, and Veronaea brunneicolor. Our screening assay showed N. annulata and V. brunneicolor exhibited cytotoxic effects against the H460 human lung cancer cell line, with moderate inhibitory activity at a concentration of 100 μg/mL. The four fungal isolates exhibited distinct antifungal profiles against phytopathogens: Amphisphaeria falcata specifically inhibited Fusarium graminearum, while Veronaea brunneicolor showed broad-spectrum activity against Botrytis cinerea, F. graminearum, and Alternaria alternata. No antibacterial effects were detected in any isolates. These fungi exhibited a diverse array of extracellular enzyme activities, including amylase, protease, gelatinase, glucose oxidase, and cellulase. Collectively, these results underscore the considerable biotechnological potential of endolichenic fungi as sources of bioactive compounds with applications in drug discovery, agriculture, and environmental management. These findings also highlight the ecological importance of endolichenic fungi, suggesting that they may play multifaceted roles in lichen symbioses and their environments. Continued exploration of these fungi is essential for unlocking their full pharmacological and industrial potential.
["Anticancer activity"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Papiliomyces sinensis (Clavicipitaceae) and Paraisaria pseudoarcta (Ophiocordycipitaceae), two new species parasitizing Lepidopteran insects from southwestern China
Cordyceps sensu lato species are highly important for medicinal purposes and functional food nutrients. Two new species belonging to Cordyceps sensu lato are introduced, i.e., Papiliomyces sinensis and Paraisaria pseudoarcta. To comprehensively describe the significance of these two species, morphological data were supplemented with phylogenetic analyses based on six loci (nrSSU, ITS, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2). Phylogenetically, Pap. sinensis is most closely related to Pap. albostromaticus and Pap. shibinensis, yet it can be distinguished from them by its larger stromata (51.3–85.7 × 3.1–3.5 vs. 37.0–58.0 × 2.5–3.0) and longer phialides (10.1–26.9 × 0.9–3.3 vs. 9.8–24.3 × 1.5–3.1). Paraisaria pseudoarcta is phylogenetically sister to Par. arcta. The longer stromata (43–51 vs. 16) and larger secondary ascospores (5.6–8.3 × 1.7–3.1 vs. 2.6–4.2 × 0.5–1.3) in Par. pseudoarcta are characteristics that distinguish the two species. A thorough morphological description and phylogenetic analysis of Pap. sinensis and Par. pseudoarcta were provided. In addition, taxonomic misconceptions of Par. gracilis (Ophiocordycipitaceae) were corrected.
["Cordyceps"]
["Plant and fungal interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Phylogenetic evidence reveal a close relationship between Amphichorda and Ovicillium in Bionectriaceae (Hypocreales)
Animal excrement serves as the primary substrate for Amphichorda, which is found in a wide range of habitats. Based on evolutionary relationships, the genus is currently classified within the Bionectriaceae. However, the phylogenetic position of Amphichorda and its associated taxa remains unresolved due to limited sampling in previous studies. Here, we discovered and identified five Amphichorda species, significantly advancing our understanding of this genus. Using six genomic loci (ITS, nrSSU, nrLSU, tef1α, rpb1, and rpb2) to expand taxonomic sampling, we reconstructed a phylogenetic framework for the Bionectriaceae, with a focus on Amphichorda and related taxa. Phylogenetic analyses revealed a close genetic connection between Amphichorda and related genera, yet they formed distinct clades within the Bionectriaceae and were clearly differentiated. The extensive sampling demonstrated stable phylogenetic relationships among Amphichorda, Hapsidospora, Ovicillium, Proxiovicillium, and Bulbithecium. Furthermore, we described two new species, A. guizhouensis sp. nov. and O. pseudoattenuatum sp. nov., supported by DNA data and morphological characteristics. A comprehensive comparison of morphological traits across all members of Amphichorda and Ovicillium was conducted. This study clarifies taxonomic boundaries and evolutionary relationships within the two genera and contributes to the overall understanding of the biodiversity and systematics of the Bionectriaceae.
["Coprophilous fungi"]

Three new species of Camporesiomyces (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales, Dothideomycetes) associated with coffee in Yunnan, China
During our surveys of microfungi associated with coffee plants in Yunnan Province, China, three saprobic fungi were isolated from dead coffee branches. Multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, tef1-α, and rpb2) and morphological characteristics resulted in the identification of three novel species in Camporesiomyces, namely C. bhatii, C. coffeae, and C. puerensis. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses of these three new species are provided, along with morphological comparisons to closely related taxa. These findings have global implications for understanding the diversity of microfungi associated with coffee trees.
["Coffee-associated microfungi"]

Three new species of Ophiocordyceps (Hypocreales, Ophiocordycipitaceae) and a new host record for Hirsutella vermicola from China
Ophiocordyceps, a genus of invertebrate-pathogenic fungi in the family Ophiocordycipitaceae (order Hypocreales), is globally distributed. Over 300 species have been described and accepted as members of the genus. This study introduces three new Ophiocordyceps species from China: O. liaoningensis, O. muscidarum, and O. neocommunis. Remarkably, O. muscidarum, hosted on flies (Muscidae, Diptera), is characterized by its larger perithecia and longer secondary ascospores. Ophiocordyceps neocommunis is also introduced based on morphological distinctions from closely related species. Ophiocordyceps liaoningensis produces dark brown superficial perithecia with an asexual morph at the apex and does not break into part-spores. Phylogenetic analyses using six loci (LSU, ITS, SSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2) robustly support the placement of these new species within the Ophiocordyceps. Additionally, we report a new host record for Hirsutella vermicola. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, color photo plates, and a phylogenetic tree are provided.
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

Unveiling species diversity within early-diverging fungi from China V: Five new species of Absidia (Cunninghamellaceae, Mucoromycota)
Absidia is widely distributed in soil, koji, and various types of feces. A multi-locus phylogeny covering the small subunit (SSU), internal transcribed spacer (ITS), and large subunit of ribosomal RNA gene (LSU rDNA), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1α), and actin (Act), combined with morphological characteristics, revealed five new species in this genus. This study provides their descriptions and illustrations and discusses their differences from morphological allies and phylogenetic relatives. Absidia collariata sp. nov. is distinguished from other species in terms of the length of collars. A. hainanensis sp. nov. is named after the geographical location Hainan, distinctive with a higher maximum growing temperature. A. pyriformis sp. nov. is different from other species in terms of sporangial shape. A. tardiva sp. nov. is characterized by slow growth. And A. tibetensis sp. nov. is named after the geographical location Tibet and differentiated by more ampulliform swellings. This study further enriches the species diversity of Absidia as the latest discovery of early-diverging fungi in China.
["Fungal diversity"]

Comprehensive genome analysis of two Cytospora (Cytosporaceae, Diaporthales) species associated with canker disease of spruce: C. piceae and C. piceicola sp. nov.
Cytospora canker (CC) is among the most important diseases in conifer trees (Picea spp., mainly). This disease poses a significant risk factor for forest health, potentially leading to economic losses for wood producers. To provide a genomic basis of the CC pathogenesis, the genomes of two Cytospora species associated with the disease were sequenced and further analyzed within a set of Diaporthales species. The first species was identified as C. piceae. The second was described as C. piceicola sp. nov. based on morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogenetic analysis. The novel species is sister to other Cytospora species isolated from conifers. Here, we report 39.7 and 43.8 Mb highly contiguous genome assemblies of C. piceae EI-19(A) and C. piceicola EI-20, respectively, obtained using Illumina sequencing technology. Despite notably different genome sizes, these species share the main genome characteristics, such as predicted gene number (10,862 and 10,742) and assembly completeness (97.6% and 98.1%). A wide range of genes encoding carbohydrate-active enzymes, secondary metabolite biosynthesis clusters, and secreted effectors were found. Multiple experimentally validated virulence genes were also identified in the studied species. The defined arsenals of enzymes and effectors generally relate to the hemibiotrophic lifestyle with a capability to switch to biotrophy. The obtained evidence also supports that C. piceae EI-19(A) and C. piceicola EI-20 can cause severe canker disease symptoms in Picea spp. specifically. It was additionally observed that the strains of C. piceae may have different pathogenicity and virulence characteristics based on the analyses of predicted secondary metabolite complements, effectomes, and virulence-related genes. Phylogenomic analysis and timetree estimations indicated that divergence of the studied species may have occurred relatively late, 11-10 million years ago. Compared to other members of Diaporthales, C. piceae EI-19(A) and C. piceicola EI-20 implied a moderate rate of gene contraction, but the latter experienced significant gene loss that can additionally support host specificity attributed to these species. But uncovered gene contraction events may point out potential lifestyle differentiation and host shift of the studied species. It was revealed that EI-19(A) and C. piceicola EI-20 carry distinct secretomes and effectomes among Diaporthales species. This feature can indicate a species lifestyle and pathogenicity potential. These findings highlight potential targets for identification and/or detection of pathogenic Cytospora in conifers. The introduced draft genome sequences of C. piceae and C. piceicola can be employed as tools to understand basic genetics and pathogenicity mechanisms of fungal species causing canker disease in woody plants. The identified pathogenicity and virulence-related genes would serve as potential candidates for host-induced gene silencing aimed at making plant hosts more resistant to pathogenic species. Furthermore, the comparative genomics component of the study will facilitate the functional analysis of the genes of unknown function in all fungal pathogens.
["Carbohydrate-active enzymes"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

Paracorymbiglomus gen. nov., Diversispora conica sp. nov., and new combinations in Diversisporaceae (Glomeromycota)
The paper presents the results of morphological studies, as well as comparisons and phylogenetic analyses of sequences of the 45S (= 18S-ITS-28S) nuc rDNA region and the rpb1 gene (when available) of four arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) of the phylum Glomeromycota. These fungi were (i) an informally named isolate 449, suspected of being an undescribed species of the genus Diversispora, and (ii) three Corymbiglomus species in the family Diversisporaceae. The studies confirmed the novelty of isolate 449 in Diversispora and showed that Corymbiglomus contains only C. corymbiforme, while C. globiferum and C. pacificum should be transferred to a separate genus sister to Corymbiglomus. Consequently, isolate 449 was described as Diversispora conica sp. nov., C. globiferum, and C. pacificum were placed in Paracorymbiglomus gen. nov. and renamed P. globiferum comb. nov. and P. pacificum comb. nov.
["Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of entomopathogenic fungi from China—revealing two new genera and thirteen new species within Clavicipitaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycota)
Scale insects (Coccidae, Hemiptera) and whiteflies (Aleyrodidae, Homoptera) are diminutive, ubiquitous, sap-sucking plant parasites, many of which are serious agricultural pests. Over the course of several years, an investigation into entomopathogenic fungi affecting scale insects and whiteflies resulted in the collection of 13 novel species of Clavicipitaceae in Yunnan and Hainan Provinces, China. Based on three-loci (nrLSU, tef-1a, and rpb1) phylogenetic analysis and morphological evidence, it was determined that two new genera, Paramoelleriella and Polymicrospora, each encompassed a new species. Additionally, two new species of Hypocrella s. str. and nine new species of Moelleriella were identified. Within the Moelleriella clade, seven new species were assigned to the Effuse clade and two to the Globose clade. Hypocrella s. str. and Samuelsia were included in the Pulvinate clade, to which the new genus Paramoelleriella is closely related, although it forms a distinct branch. Paramoelleriella species exhibited characteristics similar to those of Moelleriella, including globose to subglobose, yellow to orange teleomorphic stromata, with perithecia densely arranged and fully embedded in the stromatal tissue. Its ascospores disarticulated into short-cylindrical part-spores, and the conidiomata featured large, widely open orifices bearing fusoid conidia curved to one side. Species of the new genus Polymicrospora were characterized by thin-pulvinate, snow-white to off-white teleomorphic stromata with surface smooth. These species possessed numerous obpyriform or oval, semi-embedded, and densely arranged perithecia, cylindrical asci, and ascospores that disarticulated into small, oval part-spores in large quantities. This study introduces two new genera and 13 new species, accompanied by detailed illustrations and descriptions.
["Moelleriella"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Morphological and molecular analyses revealed four new wood-inhabiting fungal species (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) from Yunnan
Hymenochaetales is one of the fungal orders mainly composed of wood-inhabiting macrofungi within the class Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota. Four new Hymenochaetales wood-inhabiting fungi, Hymenochaete bannaensis, Lyomyces asiaticus, Peniophorella albohymenia, and P. punctata collected from China are proposed based on morphological characteristics and molecular evidence. H. bannaensis is distinguished by flocculent basidiomata with cinnamon to yellowish brown to rust-brown hymenial surface, generative hyphae with simple septa and broadly ellipsoid to globose basidiospores. L. asiaticus is characterized by the membranaceous basidiomata with white to cream hymenial surface with tuberculate, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. In addition, P. albohymenia is delimited by membranaceous basidiomata with white hymenial surface, four types of cystidia as stephanocyst, fusiform, cylindrical and capitate, and ellipsoid basidiospores. P. punctata is unique in the membranaceous, punctate basidiomata with white to pale yellow hymenial surface, fusiform cystidia, and allantoid basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers based on phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian Inference methods.

Morpho-molecular analyses reveal two novel species and two new records of Dictyosporiaceae (Pleosporales) from Dulongjiang River in northwestern Yunnan Province, China
Yunnan Province is rich in freshwater resources, providing a favorable environment for freshwater fungi. As a result, numerous new species have been described in recent years, further supporting the extensive diversity of freshwater fungi in this region. During an investigation of lignicolous freshwater fungi from the Dulongjiang River, six fresh isolates of Dictyosporiaceae were obtained. The new collection includes two new species (Dictyocheirospora splendida and Jalapriya guttulata), two new records (D. nabanheensis and Dictyosporium hughesii), and one known species (Dictyosporium duliujiangense). They are introduced based on morphological evidence and molecular phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS, LSU, and tef1-α sequence data. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of these species are provided, and morphological comparison with similar taxa is discussed.
["Dothideomycetes"]

Biconidium sinense gen. et sp. nov. (Hypocreales, Bionectriaceae) and Didymocyrtis shanxiensis sp. nov. (Phaeosphaeriaceae, Didymocyrtis) isolated from urban soil in China
During a fungal diversity survey in various urban habitats across China, 5 fungal isolates were discovered from soil samples. Detailed morphological observations and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses confirmed the identification of two novel taxa: Biconidium sinense gen. et sp. nov. and Didymocyrtis shanxiensis sp. nov. These species were formally described, illustrated, and discussed, highlighting their distinct characteristics and taxonomic placement. The study expands our understanding of fungal diversity in urban environments, emphasizing the importance of combining morphological and molecular approaches for accurate species delineation and discovery.
["Fungal taxonomy"]

Four new species of Entoloma subgenus Cyanula (Entolomataceae, Agaricales) from subtropical regions of China
In this study, four species of Entoloma subgenus Cyanula (E. orientosinense, E. subgriseosquamulosum, E. subpraegracile, and E. wuyishanense) from subtropical regions of China, are described as new to science based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Morphologically, E. orientosinense is characterized by the white basidiomata, relatively large basidiospores, and carneogriseum-type lamellae edge; E. subgriseosquamulosum is recognized by the fuscous pileus, crowded and adnate lamellae, and medium-sized basidiospores; E. subpraegracile is identified by the yellow pileus and intervenose lamellae with sterile or heterogeneous edge; E. wuyishanense is distinct by the blue basidiomata and fertile lamellae edge with slightly bluish pigmentation near the stipe. Entoloma orientosinense belongs to sect. Caesiocincta, subsect. Queletia, and E. wuyishanense belongs to sect. Poliopodes. The remaining two species each form independent branches and do not belong to any known sections. Detailed descriptions, color photos, and a key to related species are presented.

Two new species of Penicillium (Eurotiales, Aspergillaceae) from China based on morphological and molecular analyses
Penicillium is a large and significant genus of fungi, exhibiting widespread distribution across diverse substrates. Ongoing taxonomic and nomenclatural revisions have led to an annual increase in the number of newly described species. This study described two new Penicillium species, i.e., P. lentum and P. tibetense, discovered in China. They have been identified and characterized through morphological examination and both single gene and multigene phylogenetic analyses. Based on these analyses, P. lentum was classified within the section Brevicompacta, while P. tibetense was placed in the section Lanata-Divaricata. Both species exhibited the morphological features typical of their respective sections. Penicillium lentum is characterized by restricted growth with dense colonies on agar media and predominantly generates terverticillate conidiophores. Penicillium tibetense demonstrates rapid growth on media and has vigorous growth on CYA at 30 °C, producing biverticillate conidiophores. Comprehensive descriptions and detailed illustrations of these new species were presented. A morphological comparison between the new species and their closely related taxa was provided.
["Aspergillaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food"]

Three new species of Apiospora (Apiosporaceae, Amphisphaeriales) associated with diseased bamboo in China
Apiospora is widely distributed worldwide, primarily comprising pathogens, endophytes, and saprobes associated with plants, and most of its hosts are Poaceae. In this study, 37 pathogenic strains of Apiospora were isolated from diseased bamboo collected in the provinces of Hunan and Guizhou, China. Multilocus phylogenetic analysis using combined ITS, LSU, TUB2, and TEF1 sequence data, along with morphological assessments, identified three new species: A. bambusiparasitica sp. nov., A. qiannanensis sp. nov., and A. xiangxiense sp. nov. Descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic trees for the newly discovered species are provided and compared with closely related Apiospora species to enhance our understanding of the genus Apiospora. The pathogenicity test results demonstrated that the three new species could cause bamboo culm diseases, providing valuable information for the diagnosis and management of bamboo culm diseases.
["Bambusicolous fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics"]

Species of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) associated with Alnus nepalensis leaf spot and branch canker diseases in Xizang, China
Alnus nepalensis is an important tree species in the Himalayas with significant ecological and economic roles. During disease surveys in Xizang, China, we observed leaf spot and branch canker symptoms on this tree. Fungal isolates associated with these diseases were collected and identified based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of ITS, cal, his3, tef1, and tub2 sequences. As a result, Diaporthe alnicola sp. nov. and D. amygdali were identified from the leaf spots, while D. linzhiensis was identified to be associated with the cankered branches. This study identifies pathogenic species from alder trees, providing a foundation for future disease management and forest health research.
["Alder"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

Five new species of Cortinarius (Cortinariaceae) from Yunnan, China, based on molecular and morphological evidence
Cortinarius is a globally distributed, exceptionally species-rich genus of Cortinariaceae, serving as important ectomycorrhizal fungi. Yunnan province, located in southwestern China, boasts a vast array of environmental conditions and fungal resources, with numerous new Cortinarius species yet to be discovered. Based on morphological evidence and phylogenetic inference using a two-locus dataset, five novel species have been identified within the genus, namely C. brunneoverrucosus, C. coriaceus, C. fuscocandidus, C. neodisjungendus, and C. sinoconfirmatus. Notably, two of these species (C. brunneoverrucosus and C. neodisjungendus) occur in subtropical areas, while the other three species (C. coriaceus, C. fuscocandidus, and C. sinoconfirmatus) inhabit subalpine temperate areas. Taxonomic descriptions for these five species are provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Four new species of Beltraniella (Amphisphaeriales, Beltraniaceae) revealed by morphology and phylogenetic analyses from China
Beltraniella is a widely-distributed genus on Earth, although its abundance is relatively limited in relation to other dematiaceous hyphomycetes. In the present study, diseased leaves of Myristica fragrans and decaying leaves were collected from Hainan and Sichuan Province. Fungal DNA was amplified and sequenced using two barcodes, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit of ribosomal RNA (LSU), and phylogenetic analyses were conducted through maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) algorithms. Four new species of Beltraniella, B. dujiangyanensis, B. jianfengensis, B. myristicae, and B. xinglongensis are identified through phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparison during a survey of fungal diversity in Hainan and Sichuan Provinces, China. Detailed descriptions of the morphological characteristics of these four new species are provided and illustrated with figures.
["Dematiaceous hyphomycetes"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal four novel species in Cordycipitaceae in China
Cordycipitaceae is a well-known family in Hypocreales, comprising numerous arthropod-pathogenic species. Many taxa in this family have been identified and described through integrated morphological and molecular analyses. In this study, phylogenetic analyses using nrLSU, ITS, nrSSU, 3P_TEF, rpb1, and rpb2 revealed a new species, Pleurodesmospora sanduensis, and a new collection of Akanthomyces baishanensis. Additionally, a concatenated 5P_TEF+3P_TEF+rpb1+MCM7 dataset was employed to clarify interspecific relationships within Samsoniella, identifying three new species: Samsoniella lurida, S. subasiatica, and S. torquatistipitata. Detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations are provided for each studied species.
["Entomopathogenic fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and fungal interactions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

New fungal genus, three novel species and one new record from mangroves, with reclassification of Melanconiella (Melanconiellaceae) species
Mangrove ecosystems, located in the land-sea interface, host a diverse array of fungi. In this paper, we introduce a novel genus, three novel species and one new record of fungi collected from mangrove environments in Pranburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand. We establish Pseudomelanconiella as a new genus in Melanconiellaceae, to accommodate Pseudomelanconiella mangrovei, a saprobe from submerged decomposing wood of Avicennia marina. Phylogenetic analysis indicates its close relation with Septomelanconiella, but they differ in the morphology of the conidia. Additionally, our analysis of Melanconiellaceae led to the reclassification of Melanconiella loropetali to Sinodiscula loropetali and synonymizing Sinodiscula camellicola and Melanconiella camelliae. This paper also introduces two other novel species: Peroneutypa hibisci, a saprobe found on Hibiscus tiliaceus and Pseudochaetosphaeronema bruguierae from Bruguiera cylindrica, the first species in this genus reported as a mangrove fungus. A new record of Rimora mangrovei from Ceriops tagal is also reported. These discoveries emphasize the rich fungal diversity in mangrove ecosystems supporting further exploration of this unique environment.
["Fungi"]

Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals four novel species of Coniella (Diaporthales, Schizoparmaceae) from southern China
Coniella species are distributed worldwide and have been reported as plant pathogens, endophytes, or saprobes. In our ongoing survey of terrestrial plant fungi in southern China, we obtained Coniella isolates from diseased plant leaf tissues in Fujian, Hainan, and Yunnan provinces. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference based on four loci (ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tef1-α) were used to clarify the taxonomic placement of the species. We confirmed that they represent four new species, namely Coniella diaoluoshanensis, C. dongshanlingensis, C. grossedentatae, and C. veri based on both morphology and phylogeny support. The new species are compared with other Coniella species, comprehensive descriptions and micrographs are provided.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two new species of Colletotrichum (Glomerellales, Glomerellaceae) causing anthracnose on Epimedium sagittatum
Epimedium sagittatum (Sieb. et Zucc.) Maxim, a perennial herb belonging to the Berberidaceae family, is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for its beneficial role in enhancing kidney function, strengthening bones and muscles, and dispelling wind-dampness. Clinically, it is commonly used to treat osteoporosis, rheumatism, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. During 2023 to 2024, a disease suspected to be anthracnose was observed to be infecting the bases of Epimedium seedlings in Bibo Town, Kaili City, Guizhou Province. In the fall, the disease incidence reached 90%, with severe infection resulting in total desiccation and foliage death. Tissue isolation and single-conidium methods were used to identify and isolate the pathogens, which were determined to be two anthracnose strains. Multi-locus phylogenetic analysis using ITS, gapdh, act, tub2, chs-1, his3, and cal, and morphological observations of representative isolates indicated that the two isolated fungal strains were new species belonging to the genus Colletotrichum, namely Colletotrichum epimedii and Colletotrichum sagittati. Pathogenicity tests, adhering to Koch’s postulates, confirmed that both fungi could infect E. sagittatum; C. epimedii exhibited a higher pathogenicity than C. sagittati. The present study provides valuable information regarding the prevention of E. sagittatum anthracnose.
["Epimedium sagittatum"]

Additions to the genus Mycena (Mycenaceae, Agaricales): Descriptions of five new taxa in Hunan Province, China
Few studies have been conducted on Mycena species in Hunan Province, China. During our research on the species diversity of Mycena in Hunan Province, we identified approximately 30 Mycena species based on morphological and molecular evidence. Five species are recognized herein as new to science, namely, M. fulvomarginata, M. huangsangensis, M. hongfengensis, M. subroriduliformis, and M. roseolamellata. The phylogenetic analyses of a combined ITS and LSU sequence dataset revealed that five new species each formed an independent lineage that could separate phenotypically similar and phylogenetically related species. Descriptions, photographs, and phylogenetic analysis results are provided for the five new species, along with the comparisons with related species. A key to all Mycena species found in Hunan is also provided.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Unveiling new species of Phragmidiaceae (Basidiomycota, Pucciniales) on rosaceous plants from Guizhou, China
Rust fungi associated with Rubus were collected across diverse locations in Guizhou Province, and three new species – Gerwasia amphidasydis on Rubus amphidasys, Phragmidium coreanicola on Rubus coreanus, and Phragmidium parvifolius on Rubus parvifolius are introduced. These novel species are described based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of the ITS and LSU loci. Additionally, Gerwasia rubi-setchuenensis is introduced as a new host record on Rubus buergeri. The study includes comprehensive morpho-anatomical descriptions, detailed illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree, providing insights into the taxonomic placement and relationships of these novel taxa within their respective lineages.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Additions to the coriaceous families Peniophoraceae and Stereaceae (Russulales): Six novel wood-inhabiting taxa in the genera Conferticium, Gloeocystidiellum, and Peniophora from southwest China
Russulales comprises a highly diverse group of species with respect to basidiomata morphology and hymenophore configuration, in which this order is highly heterogeneous, that can be classified as resupinate, effused-reflexed, discoid, clavarioid, pileate, or stipitate, and with varied hymenophores such as smooth, hydnoid, poroid, and lamellate in different russuloid species. Species in Russulales have been considered to have significant economic value. Six new wood-inhabiting fungi belonging to the genera Conferticium, Gloeocystidiellum, and Peniophora of two families, Peniophoraceae and Stereaceae (Russulales), were found in southwest China. Sequences of ITS+nLSU loci of six new taxa were generated, and phylogenetic analyses were performed with the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods with an emphasis on the phylogeny of wood-inhabiting smooth species in this order. The combined ITS+nLSU loci analysis showed that the six new species grouped within the order Russulales, in which Conferticium tuberculatum, Gloeocystidiellum cremeum, and G. fissuratum grouped into the family Stereaceae, and Peniophora albohymenia, P. hengduanensis, and P. punctata grouped into the family Peniophoraceae. The morphology and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses confirmed the novelty and placement of the six new taxa. Descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results of the new taxa are provided.

Morphology and phylogeny of two new species within Cordycipitaceae (Hypocreales) from China
Simplicillium and Leptobacillium, sister genera in the family Cordycipitaceae, exhibit a broad range of hosts or substrates. The identification of two novel species, from Simplicillium and Leptobacillium, was achieved by analysing morphological characteristics and phylogenetic data obtained from six molecular markers (ITS, nrSSU, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1 and rpb2). The two recently documented species are S. puwenense and L. longiphialidum. Morphologically, S. puwenense possessed slender solitary rod-shaped or columnar phialides with elliptical oval or cylindrical conidia forming small spherical heads at the apex of phialides. On the other hand, L. longiphialidum had solitary columnar phialides with elliptic or subspherical apical conidia while other conidia were narrow columnar or fusiform in shape. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that S. puwenense formed an independent branch as a sister species to S. formicae, whereas L. longiphialidum clustered with L. marksiae exhibiting stable topological structure. The Bayesian inference posterior probability and the maximum likelihood bootstrap-ratio provided robust statistical evidence, indicating the presence of two novel species within the genera of Simplicillium and Leptobacillium. The present study contributes to the discovery of species diversity in Simplicillium and Leptobacillium, while also providing a taxonomic foundation for their rational development and sustainable utilisation.
["Leptobacillium"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Morphological and multi-locus phylogenetic analyses reveal three new branched species of Clavaria (Clavariaceae, Agaricales) from China
Based on morphological and molecular evidence, 12 specimens have been identified as belonging to three previously unrecognized species of Clavaria, which are here described as C. divergens, C. orientalis, and C. tongdaoensis. Clavaria divergens is characterized by its branched, white basidiomata. Clavaria orientalis and C. tongdaoensis are very similar to C. zollingeri in the field. However, C. orientalis is distinguished by its more robust branches, while C. tongdaoensis differs by its varied or paler color of basidiomata. A concatenated sequence dataset (ITS-nrLSU-RPB2) was used for multi-locus phylogenetic analysis. The phylogenetic tree of Clavaria showed that the three branched species each formed a distinct lineage with strong support. A key to the known branched species of Clavaria in China is provided.
["Clavariaceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal four new species in Hymenochaetales and one new species in Cantharellales from Southwestern China
Wood-decaying fungi represent a vital group of higher fungi that drive the cycling of matter and energy in forest ecosystems, and they have been the focus of thorough investigation. In this study, five new species, viz. Botryobasidium daweishanense, Inonotus subglobisporum, Kneiffiella bubalina, Xylodon granulanoides, and X. granulans from China, are described and illustrated based on the morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses, in which the sequences of ITS+nLSU genes were used for the phylogenetic analyses by maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. The phylogeny revealed that the Botryobasidium daweishanense groups with three taxa, viz., B. intertextum, B. leptocystidiatum, and B. subcoronatum. Inonotus subglobisporum is closely related to I. radiatus. Kneiffiella bubalina clustered sister to K. subalutacea. Xylodon granulanoides and X. granulans have a close relationship with X. bambusinus, X. fissuratus, X. subclavatus, X. montanus, and X. wenshanensis. Additionally, Xylodon granulanoides and X. granulans clustered together. Botryobasidium daweishanense is characterized by an araneose hymenial surface, fusiform, and cyanophilous basidiospores (6.1–7.3 × 3.3–3.9 μm). Inonotus subglobisporum is characterized by perennial basidiomata with lateral stipes, polygon pores measuring 4–6 per mm, and subglobose, cyanophilous basidiospores (3.6–4.3 × 2.8–3.5 μm). Kneiffiella bubalina is characterized by cream basidiomata and cylindrical to slightly allantoid basidiospores (8.0–8.9 × 1.8–2.3 μm). Xylodon granulanoides is characterized by grandinioid hymenial surfaces, various cystidia, and broadly ellipsoid, thick-walled basidiospores (4.7–5.3 × 3.6–4.1 μm). Xylodon granulans is characterized by grandinioid hymenial surfaces, capitate and clavate cystidia, and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores (3.8–4.2 × 2.9–3.3 μm). Phylogenetic analysis based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and nuclear large subunit RNA (nLSU) shows that the four species are members of Hymenochaetales, and one belongs to Cantharellales. All five new species are compared with morphologically and phylogenetically closely related species. The present study contributes to understanding the species diversity, taxonomy, and phylogeny of macrofungi in Southwestern China.

Morphology and multi-gene phylogeny reveal three new species of Clonostachys and two combinations of Sesquicillium (Bionectriaceae, Hypocreales) from Xizang, China
Clonostachys and Sesquicillium are genera in Bionectriaceae, and known in sexual perithecial ascomata and hyphomycetous asexual morphs. In their asexual morph, both genera share similar morphology in conidiophores and conidiogenous cell characteristics but differ in the development of conidiophores. The members of Clonostachys are distributed worldwide with the majority occurring in the tropics and the species are commonly reported as soil-borne fungi but also reported as endophytes, epiphytes, and saprotrophs. During a microfungi survey in Xizang, China, six collections of fresh and healthy Ageratina adenophora and Houttuynia cordata leaves were obtained. The taxonomy of these collections was investigated through a combination of morphological analysis and multigene phylogenetic analysis using Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. The newly generated sequences were clustered within Clonostachys and Sesquicillium, showing hyphomycetes asexual morph. The results revealed three new Clonostachys species viz, Clonostachys linzhiensis, C. motuoensis, and C. yadongensis. This research sheds light on the overlooked fungal diversity in Xizang, China, expanding the known fungal biodiversity in the region. Additionally, two new combinations, Sesquicillium aquaticum and S. shanghaiense for C. aquatica and C. shanghaiensis, and one synonymy, C. viticola for C. swietenia are established, respectively.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Four new species of Cryptothecia (Arthoniaceae, Ascomycota) and Myriostigma (Arthoniaceae, Ascomycota) from China, based on morphology and molecular phylogeny
In this study, morphological and molecular phylogenetic approaches were used to investigate the species diversity of Cryptothecia and Myriostigma from southern China. We found four new species of Cryptothecia and Myriostigma (C. disjecta, C. sorediatum, M. melanovillosa and M. visus-blotch). Cryptothecia disjecta is distinguished by verrucose pseudisidia that are loosely scattered on the thallus, the upper parts of which are white or have darker dots. Cryptothecia sorediatum is distinguished by I– medulla and thalli having globose soralia. Myriostigma melanovillosa is distinguished by thalli with black or purple dots and hyaline to pale yellow ascospores (63–71 × 26–33 µm). Myriostigma visus-blotch is distinguished by hyaline ascospores and ascigerous areas, which have many irregular small patches that are scattered or clustered together radially elongated. In addition, a phylogenetic tree based on mtSSU, RPB2 and nuLSU illustrates the phylogenetic placement of the proposed four new taxa. Detailed descriptions of the morphological, ecological and chemical characteristics and illustrations of each species are provided. Two updated keys for all known Chinese Cryptothecia and Myriostigma species are also provided.

Unveiling four new taxa and Nigrosynnema natarajanensis comb. nov. in Stachybotryaceae (Hypocreales) from monocotyledon plants in Guangdong Province, China
Members of Stachybotryaceae are distributed worldwide, with certain species playing a significant role as bio-degraders and some causing diseases in plants, humans, and animals. Other species within this family can be found in soil and have been reported as saprobes in various plants. In this study (2021–2022), fungal taxa resembling Stachybotryaceae, isolated from dead leaves of Agave sisalana and a dead stem of Wurfbainia villosa in Guangdong Province, China, are identified based on morphological characteristics and molecular data. Multi-locus phylogeny based on calmodulin (cmdA), internal transcribed spacer (ITS), the large subunit nuclear rDNA (LSU), RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2), the partial translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α), and β-tubulin (tub2) revealed that nine strains were grouped within Stachybotryaceae. Nigrosynnema guangdongense gen. et sp. nov., typical of Stachybotryaceae but having unusual olivaceous brown to black synnemata that are narrower towards the apex and produce phialidic, aseptate, slimy conidia in black and glistening heads, is introduced. Additionally, Brevistachys wurfbainiae and Sirastachys guangdongensis are introduced as new species. Stachybotrys microsporus is a new host record for Agave sisalana. The present study provides comprehensive descriptions, illustrations, and molecular data analyses of the newly discovered taxa and newly recorded species as a taxonomic and phylogenetic contribution to Stachybotryaceae. Furthermore, a new combination, Nigrosynnema natarajanensis, is proposed for the previously described Virgatospora natarajanensis.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Sticta flakusiorum and S. kukwae—two additional new species from the Neotropics (Peltigerales, Peltigeraceae)
Two additional species of Sticta are described as new to science based on material from Bolivia and Peru and supported by phylogenetic analysis of the fungal ITS barcoding marker. The two new species represent lineages within clade I on the global Sticta phylogeny. Sticta flakusiorum Ossowska, B. Moncada & Lücking is a species in the S. humboldtii morphodeme and is characterized by lobes partly to entirely covered with white hairs, also covering the margins of submarginal and laminal apothecia, and the scabrid basal membrane of cyphellae, which is white to yellow, or partly brown, and when yellow K+ purple. The taxon was discovered at a single locality in Bolivia, but it is closely related to a potentially new Sticta species from Peru, which is here left undescribed. The other new species, S. kukwae Ossowska, Magain & Sérus., belongs to the S. weigelii morphodeme. It has lobes with sinuous margins and dark, palmate to corymbose phyllidia. It was collected at several locations in Peru and a single locality in Bolivia.

Three new species of Gerronema (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) from southern China
Three new species of Gerronema are discovered from southern China. Gerronema angustum is characterized by its small basidiomata, greenish-green pileus, slender stipe, narrow, and close lamellae. Gerronema pubescence is characterized by its pubescent pileus when young, yellowish white to pale yellow lamellae that are lighter towards the margin, narrowly cylindrical to lageniform pleurocystidia, and absent cheilocystidia. Gerronema rhizomorpha is characterized by its yellowish white to brown pileus, well-developed rhizomorphs at the stipe base, absent cheilocystidia and pleurocystidia, and not growing on rotten wood. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of nrITS + nrLSU support the species delimitation. In this study, detailed descriptions, photos of the basidiomata, line drawings, and discussions with related species are comprehensively provided. A key to the known Gerronema species in China is also provided.

Lijiangomyces laojunensis gen. et sp. nov. (Mytilinidiaceae), and Sclerococcum stictae (Dactylosporaceae), a new lichenicolous species from Yunnan, China
Lijiangomyces laojunensis gen. et sp. nov. and Sclerococcum stictae sp. nov. are reported from China and identified through DNA sequence analyses (LSU, ITS, and tef1-α) and morphological characteristics. Phylogenetic analysis showed that L. laojunensis forms a distinct lineage within Mytilinidiaceae, closely related to the Mytilinidion subclade, leading to the establishment of a new genus within this family. This saprotrophic species grows on the bark of Abies fabri, often surrounded by the thallus of Pertusaria species. Lijiangomyces laojunensis is characterized by broadly open, black hysterothecia, clavate asci, and uniseriate, hyaline muriform ascospores. Sclerococcum stictae, a new lichenicolous species, forms a sister clade relationship to a lichenicolous fungus, S. ricasoliae. It was found on the thallus of Sticta, and is characterized by black apothecia, elongate, cylindrical asci, and brown, elliptical, and 1-septate ascospores. Descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results of the new taxa are provided.

Three new species of Peroneutypa (Diatrypaceae, Xylariales) and a first record of Eutypa camelliae in China with updated description
Diatrypaceae is a diverse family with a worldwide distribution, occurring on a wide range of hosts in terrestrial and marine environments, some of which are important plant pathogens. During a survey of ascomycete diversity in Guizhou Province, China, three new taxa within Peroneutypa are proposed based on morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS and tub2 sequences data. The newly proposed species are Peroneutypa guizhouensis, P. wanfenglinensis and P. zhujiashanesis. In addition, Eutypa camelliae was recorded for the first time from China, with an updated description. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, comparative analyses, and a tabular comparison of the new species with related and similar taxa are provided.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses revealed five new species (Basidiomycota) from Southwestern China
In the present study, five new wood-inhabiting fungal species, Conferticium albocremeum (Stereaceae, Russulales), Dendrocorticiopsis luteoalba (Punctulariaceae, Corticiales), Eichleriella biluoxueshanensis (Auriculariaceae, Auriculariales), Gloeohypochnicium yunnanense (Incertae sedis, Russulales), and Punctularia nigrodontea (Punctulariaceae, Corticiales), collected from southern China, are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and phylogenetic evidence. Conferticium albocremeum is characterized by membranaceous and smooth basidiomata with white to cream surface and ellipsoid and verrucose basidiospores (9–11 × 5–7 µm); Dendrocorticiopsis luteoalba is characterized white to buff, membranaceous basidiomata and ellipsoid, thin-walled and smooth basidiospores (7–8 × 4.5–5.5 µm); Eichleriella biluoxueshanensis is characterized by coriaceous and grandinioid basidiomata with buff to cinnamon-buff hymenophore and allantoid, thin-walled basidiospores (13.5–17.5 × 7–9 µm); Gloeohypochnicium yunnanense is characterized by buff to cream, coriaceous and smooth basidiomata and globose, thick-walled and warted basidiospores (10–12 × 10–11.5 µm), and Punctularia nigrodontea is characterized by resupinate to effused-reflexed basidiomata and ellipsoid, thin-walled and smooth basidiospores (8.5–10 × 5–6 µm). Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses performed based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions with the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods revealed that five new species belong to the genera Conferticium, Dendrocorticiopsis, Eichleriella, Gloeohypochnicium, and Punctularia. Descriptions, illustrations, phylogenetic analysis results, and a comparison with closely related taxa of the five new species are provided.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses reveal five new species of Hymenochaetales (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) from southwestern China
Wood-inhabiting fungi can decompose wood materials and play a crucial role in the natural world by maintaining the equilibrium of the Earth’s ecosystems. In the present study, five new wood-inhabiting fungal species belonging to the order Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaete weishanensis, Lyomyces albofarinaceus, Lyomyces albomarginatus, Tubulicrinis albobadius and Xylodon musicola, collected from southern China, are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Hymenochaete weishanensis is characterized by a coriaceous, tuberculate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with simple-septate generative hyphae, and ellipsoid to narrow ellipsoid basidiospores (4.0–5.0 × 2.0–3.0 µm); Lyomyces albofarinaceus is characterized by pruinose hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores (6.0–7.0 × 5.0–6.0 µm); Lyomyces albomarginatus is characterized by the cracked hymenial surface, clamped generative hyphae, and elliposoid basidiospores (4.0–5.5 × 2.7–3.5 µm); Tubulicrinis albobadius is characterized by an arachnoid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and cylindrical to allantoid basidiospores (4.0–6.0 × 1.5–2.2 µm) and Xylodon musicola is characterized by an arachnoid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and broadly ellipsoid to globe basidiospores (4.0–5.5 × 3.5–5.0 µm). Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nrLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. Full descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results for the five new species are provided.

Four new species of Pichia (Pichiales, Pichiaceae) isolated from China
The genus Pichia belonging to the family Pichiaceae is widely distributed worldwide and has garnered significant attention due to its importance in various industries and its potential role in human infections. During our investigation of yeast diversity in China, several strains representing undescribed taxa were isolated from forests in Hainan province, Hubei province, Beijing city and a mudflat in Guangdong province. Based on phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA, these strains were identified as four new species: Pichia kregeriana sp. nov. (holotype strain CGMCC 2.7383T), P. phaffii sp. nov. (holotype strain CGMCC 2.8239T), P. ureolytica sp. nov. (holotype strain CGMCC 2.6825T) and P. wuzhishanensis f.a. sp. nov. (holotype strain CGMCC 2.7381T). The six strains of P. ureolytica were identified as positive for urease production. This phenomenon is extremely rare in the genus Pichia, as only P. bovicola is reported to exhibit weak urease activity.

A new psychrophilic yeast of Kriegeriaceae (Kriegeriales) isolated from lichen in the Arctic, with the description of Lichenia svalbardensis gen. et sp. nov.
Yeasts are an important component of the microbiome in circumpolar regions that are characterized by unique environmental conditions. However, the taxonomy of yeasts remains largely unknown in high- and low-latitude regions. Curing a field survey of yeasts in the Svalbard Archipelago, Norway, a new yeast genus in Kriegeriales was isolated from dendritic lichens. Based on the phylogeny of multiple loci (ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb1, rpb2, tef1-α, and cytb), morphology, and physiological characteristics, the new genus Lichenia is proposed with the type species Lichenia svalbardensis. Additionally, 10 °C and 15 °C are the fastest growth temperatures of L. svalbardensis. It has low or no growth at temperatures above 20 °C, and there appears to be a morphogenetic transition from yeast to pseudohyphae or hyphae above 10 °C.
["Kriegeriales"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

Three new species and a new record of Conocybe section Pilosellae (Bolbitiaceae, Agaricales) from Jilin Province, China
This study is based on the phylogenetic framework of Conocybe section Pilosellae and incorporates materials from Jilin Province. A systematic phylogenetic tree was constructed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses of internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) and nuclear large subunit ribosomal DNA (nrLSU), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) sequences. As a result, three new species were discovered in Jilin Province: Conocybe verna, which emerges in broad-leaved forests during spring; C. angulispora, characterized by angular and submitriform or slightly hexagonal basidiospores; and C. rubrocyanea, with basidiomata displaying a reddish hue when fresh and a bluish hue when dry. Additionally, a new record for China, C. hexagonospora was identified, characterized by the lack of distinct pubescence on the pileus and slightly hexagonal basidiospores, increasing the total number of species within sect. Pilosellae to 22. Key for sect. Pilosellae is provided, accompanied by morphological descriptions and line drawings for the new species and a new record for China.
["Conocybe section Pilosellae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Description of two new species of Ophiocordyceps: O. sinocampes and O. cystidiata (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) from typical karst landform forests in Guizhou, China
Karst habitats are hotspots of diversity and endemism. Their naturally fragmented distributions across broad geographic landscapes have led to a complex array of smaller evolutionary ecosystems. Comprehensive biodiversity assessments of karst habitats have revealed that these ecosystems contain a high level of endemism. During a survey of cordycipitoid fungi in the karst region of southwest Guizhou, China, we identified and proposed two new species, based on morphology and multi-locus (nrSSU, nrLSU, tef, rpb1, and rpb2) phylogenetic analyses. O. cystidiata sp. nov. is characterized by gray-white to yellow fertile part, verrucose phialides, and conidia enveloped in a cystic thickened mucus sheath, distinguishing it from other species. O. sinocampes sp. nov. is distinguished by long tapering phialides with inflated bases. Phylogenetic analyses using five loci reveal that O. cystidiata shares a close relationship with O. fenggangensis, O. musicaudata, O. alboperitheciata, and Hirsutella kuankuoshuiensis, while O. sinocampes is closely related to O. multiperitheciata and H. strigosa. Herein, we completed the descriptions, illustrations and molecular phylogeny of these two new species. The host diversity of O. sinocampes has also been documented within the orders Lepidoptera and Coccoidea. Our research further enriches the diversity of cordycipitoid species in the typical karst landform areas of Guizhou, China.
["Cordycipitoid fungi"]
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Five new epiphytic species of Vishniacozyma (Bulleribasidiaceae, Tremellales) from China
The genus Vishniacozyma, globally distributed, encompasses numerous epiphytic and endophytic species. In this study, five new species are proposed to accommodate eleven yeast strains isolated from leaves of different plants: V. diospyri sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33574T), V. guiyangensis sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33569T), V. pingtangensis sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33596T), V. eriobotryae sp. nov. (holotype GDMCC 2.312T), and V. tianchiensis sp. nov. (holotype CICC 33617T) using phenotypic and phylogenetic characters. Phylogenetic analysis was based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene. Illustrations and descriptions of these five taxa are provided, along with comparative analyses with closely related species within the genus. This research highlights the considerable diversity of Vishniacozyma species in China and contributes valuable data for future investigations in fungal systematics and evolution.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Three novel species and a new record of Pleosporales (Didymellaceae, Roussoellaceae) from China
We are investigating saprobic Ascomycota in Guizhou Province, China. Fungal specimens collected from dead wood were identified based on morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of ITS, SSU, LSU, β-tubulin, ef1-α, and rpb2 sequence data. Three novel species, Neoroussoella guizhouensis, Roussoella guizhouensis, and Xenodidymella guizhouensis, are introduced, along with one new geographical record, Xenoroussoella triseptata. This study contributes to our understanding of the diversity of Ascomycota in Guizhou Province and the classification in Roussoellaceae.

Molecular phylogeny and taxonomy reveal two new genera and five new species in Phanerochaetaceae (Polyporales) from Yunnan, Southwest China
In the present study, two new genera Paradonkia, and Neodonkiella, and five new species, viz. Paradonkia farinacea, Neodonkiella yinjiangensis, Phanerochaete albocremea, Phanerochaete fissurata, and Phanerochaete punctata collected from southern China, are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Paradonkia farinacea is characterized by the resupinate, membranaceous basidiomata with pale cream to gray cream hymenial surface and a monomitic hyphal system with simple septa and clamp connections; Neodonkiella yinjiangensis is characterized by soft coriaceous basidiomata, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid basidiospores (3.5–5 × 2–2.5 µm); Phanerochaete albocremea is characterized by resupinate basidiomata with white to a pale cream hymenial surface, and ellipsoid basidiospores (3.5–5 × 2–3 µm); Phanerochaete fissurata is characterized by gray-brown and cracked hymenial surface, and ellipsoid basidiospores (4–5.5 × 2–3 µm) and Phanerochaete punctata is characterized by farinaceous basidiomata, a monomitic hyphal system, and ellipsoid basidiospores. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. The phylogram based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions, revealed that two new genera, Paradonkia and Neodonkiella, belong to the family Phanerochaetaceae, and three new species belong to the genus Phanerochaete in the family Phanerochaetaceae.

Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses revealed four new species (Basidiomycota) in the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, China
Four new fungi, viz. Clavulinopsis wumengshanensis (Clavariaceae, Agaricales), Henningsomyces bambusae (Porotheleaceae, Agaricales), Xenasma bisterigmatae, and X. guttulata (Xenasmataceae, Russulales), from Yunnan Province in China, are proposed, based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using a combined dataset of internal transcribed space and nuclear ribosomal RNA large subunit sequences. The ITS+LSU analysis showed that Clavulinopsis wumengshanensis sp. nov. groups with C. aurantiocinnabarina, Henningsomyces bambusae sp. nov. forms a sister group with H. candidus, Xenasma bisterigmatae sp. nov. is clustered with X. rimicola, and X. guttulata sp. nov. is clustered with X. pruinosum. The morphology and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses confirmed the placement of the four new taxa. Clavulinopsis wumengshanensis is distinguished by buff-yellow to straw-yellow basidiomata, clavate to subcylindrical basidia with four sterigmata, and subglobose basidiospores with several guttules (7–8.5 × 6–7.5 µm); Henningsomyces bambusae is characterized by white to cream basidiomata with short cylindric to tubular colonies, cylindrical to subcylindrical basidia with two sterigmata and globose to subglobose basidiospores (6.5–8.5 × 6.5–8.5 µm); Xenasma bisterigmatae can be characterized by its membranaceous and ash-grey basidiomata, clavate to subcylindrical basidia with two sterigmata and ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores (10–12.5 × 8–10.5 µm); X. guttulata is distinguished by membranaceous and white to cream basidiomata, clavate to subcylindrical basidia with two sterigmata and ellipsoid to narrowly ellipsoid basidiospores (7–9 × 5.5–7.5 µm).
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Freshwater fungi in the karst plateau wetlands from Guizhou Province, China: taxonomic novelties in Melanommataceae (Pleosporales)
Three isolates of interest were collected during an investigation of freshwater fungi from wetlands in the karst regions of Guizhou Province, Southwest China. Phylogenetic analyses using ITS, LSU, SSU, and tef-1α gene regions have revealed the placements of these isolates in Melanommataceae (Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes). Based on the morphological and phylogenetic evidence, three new species are introduced: Byssosphaeria chishuiensis sp. nov., Camposporium guizhouense sp. nov., and C. aquaticum sp. nov. Byssosphaeria chishuiensis is sister to B. villosa and forms a basal branch of Byssosphaeria within Melanommataceae. Byssosphaeria chishuiense is similar to B. villosa in ascal size but differs in the ascomata and ascospore sizes, and the ascospores lack appendages. Camposporium aquaticum is sister to C. guizhouense, and they form a distinct lineage within the genus. Morphologically, C. aquaticum resembles C. guizhouense in its conidial shape but differs in conidial size. Additionally, PHI analysis is performed to further reveal that C. aquaticum and C. guizhouense have no significant recombination with related taxa. Neobyssosphaeria is synonymized under Byssosphaeria, and accordingly, Byssosphaeria clematidis comb. nov. is proposed to accommodate Neobyssosphaeria clematidis. The descriptions, illustrations, and notes of the novel taxa are provided along with an updated phylogenetic tree of Melanommataceae. Two synopses of the species in Byssosphaeria and Camposporium are also provided.
["Aquatic fungi"]

Three new asexual Kirschsteiniothelia species from Guizhou Province, China
During our investigation of saprobic fungi in southwestern China, three micro-hyphomycetous fungi were isolated from dead wood in freshwater and terrestrial habitats in Guizhou Province. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS, LSU, and SSU sequences, performed using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods, confirmed that these isolates belong to Kirschsteiniothelia. Based on distinct morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic evidence, we describe three new species: Kirschsteiniothelia guizhouensis, K. weiningensis, and K. xishuiensis. Furthermore, the effectiveness of three DNA markers for species-level identification within Kirschsteiniothelia was evaluated using Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning (ASAP) analysis, which identified the ITS nucleotide sequences as the most reliable marker for species differentiation within the genus.

Two novel hyphomycetes associated with ferns from China
During an ongoing investigation of fungi associated with ferns in southwestern China, three hyphomycetes were discovered on the dead rachises of Angiopteris fokiensis and an unidentified fern. Based on morphology and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses, Arthrobotrys angiopteridis and Corynespora septata are introduced as new species. Arthrobotrys angiopteridis is a nematode-trapping fungus characterized by macronematous, mononematous, hyaline conidiophores, conidiogenous cells with polyblastic denticles at each node, and 0–1-septate, clavate to elongate pyriform, hyaline conidia. Corynespora septata features macronematous, mononematous, pale brown to dark brown conidiophores, integrated, monotretic conidiogenous cells and up to 7-distoseptate with one true septum, subcylindrical to obclavate, hyaline to pale brown conidia. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of these two new species are provided, along with morphological comparisons of the new taxa with closely related species.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Morphology and multigene phylogeny revealed four new species of Geastrum (Geastrales, Basidiomycota) from China
In the present study, four new species, Geastrum artocarpicola, G. fibulatum, G. sinense and G. trachelium collected from China, are proposed based on a combination of morphological characteristics and molecular evidence. Geastrum artocarpicola is characterized by shallowly saccate to deep saccate exoperidium, bubble-shaped to flask shaped basidia, spherical basidiospores. G. fibulatum is characterized by shallowly saccate to deep saccate exoperidium, spherical basidiospores, generative hyphae with clamp connections in the mycelium layer. G. sinense has arched exoperidium, long stipe expanded basidiomata, and spherical basidiospores. G. trachelium has deep saccate exoperidium, flask-shaped basidia, and spherical basidiospores. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS), large subunit (nrLSU), the largest subunit of ribosomal polymerase II (RPB1), and subunit 6 of ATP synthase (ATP6) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated, and the phylogenetic analyses were performed with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference methods. The results showed that our collection clustered within Geastrum but distinctly from the others. Full morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses results for the four new species are provided. In addition, G. sanglinense is treated as a synonym of beijingense.

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal four novel species of Distoseptispora (Distoseptisporaceae, Distoseptisporales) from southern China
Saprobic hyphomycetes with high density and species diversity were observed on plant debris. During our mycological surveys in southern China, numerous strains were isolated from dead branches of unidentified plants in the forest of Jiangxi and Fujian provinces, China. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS, LSU, RPB2, and TEF1 sequence data using maximum-likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods revealed the systematic placement of several Sporidesmium-like species within Distoseptispora. Based on morphological characteristics and molecular evidence, four new species of Distoseptispora, namely D. fujianensis, D. ganzhouensis, D. nanpingensis and D. subtropica, are introduced, and two known species, D. clematidis and D. yunjushanensis, are reported. This study enhances our knowledge of the species diversity of Distoseptispora in southern China.
["Asexual fungi"]

Additions to the saprobic fungi (Ascomycota) associated with macadamia trees from the Greater Mekong Subregion
Macadamia trees, the most economically important Proteaceae perennial crop, are globally renowned for their edible nuts. During our surveys of microfungi associated with macadamia in China and Thailand, we isolated three saprobic fungi from dead macadamia branches. Our multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1-α, TUB2, and ACT loci), genealogical concordance phylogenetic species recognition (GCPSR) with a pairwise homoplasy index (PHI) test, and morphological characteristics led to the discovery of two new species, Dothiorella macadamiae and Phaeoacremonium chiangmaiense, and one new record, Melomastia puerensis. We provide morphological descriptions, photo plates, phylogenetic analysis results, and PHI test results of the two new species, along with comparisons with closely related taxa. These findings have global implications for understanding the diversity of microfungi associated with macadamia trees.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Four new araneogenous species and a new genus in Hypocreales (Clavicipitaceae, Cordycipitaceae) from the karst region of China
The karst region in southwestern China is one of the biodiversity hotspots in the world with rich fungal diversity but under-studied. Four fungal species belonging to Chlorocillium (Clavicipitaceae) and Gamszarella (Cordycipitaceae) were isolated from dead spiders. Morphological comparisons, phylogenetic analyses and a PHI analysis based on multigene datasets support the establishment of these new species viz., Chlorocillium guizhouense sp. nov., C. vallense sp. nov., Gamszarella sinensis sp. nov., and G. vallensis sp. nov. are introduced. A new genus, Neogamszarella, is proposed to accommodate Gamszarella antillana, which is phylogenetically distinct from Gamszarella s. str. Our results revealed that further attention needs to be paid to the diversity of araneogenous fungi in the karst regions of southwestern China.
["Chlorocillium"]
["Plant and fungal interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

New taxa and a combination in Glomerales (Glomeromycota, Glomeromycetes)
This article presents the results of morphological studies, as well as comparisons and phylogenetic analyzes of sequences of four arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF, phylum Glomeromycota): Dominikia indica, Dominikia indica strain 211, Isolate 517, and Isolate 524. Dominikia indica strain 211 was previously characterized only by sequences of the 45S nuc rDNA region (= 18S, partial, ITS-1-5.8S-ITS2, 28S, partial) and the rpb1 gene (without any morphological data) that were deposited in GenBank under the incorrect name “Dominikia indica strain 211”. Its 45S sequences differed from the original D. indica sequences and, consequently, resulted in erroneous phylogenetic classification of this species. Isolate 517 and Isolate 524 slightly differed in morphology from Macrodominikia compressa (formerly D. compressa) and Microkamienskia perpusilla (formerly Kamienskia perpusilla), respectively. Microkamienskia perpusilla was originally found in a maritime dune site of Italy in 2009 and not yet reported from any other habitat in the world. Our sequence comparisons and analyses showed that D. indica represents a new genus, here created under the name Delicatispora gen. nov. with De. indica comb. nov., and Dominikia indica strain 211 is a new species, described as Dominikia paraminuta sp. nov. These analyses also indicated that Isolate 517 is conspecific to M. compressa and confirmed the correctness of the transfer of D. compressa by other AMF researchers to Macrodominikia gen. nov. with M. compressa comb. nov. Morphological studies of our M. compressa specimens grown in culture showed that the original description of this species is incomplete and, therefore, the description was emended. Phylogenetic analyses of Isolate 524 proved its conspecificity to Mk. perpusilla and thus revealed its second site of occurrence, i.e., the coastal dunes of the Hel Peninsula in northern Poland.
["Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi"]

The diversity of Acarosporaceae (Acarosporales, Lecanoromycetes) in California
Acarospora alba, A. indistincta, A. sharnoffii, and A. tejonensis are described from California. Sarcogyne fasciculata is described from California and New Mexico. Sarcogyne coeruleonigricans is reported new for California. Sarcogyne lapponica is recognized as a synonym of Acarospora lapponica, its basionym. We report 127 described species of Acarosporaceae for North America. We verified 62 species of Acarosporaceae from California.
["Channel Island National Park (Santa Rosa Island)"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Phylogenetic studies on the genus Candolleomyces (Psathyrellaceae, Basidiomycota) occurring in the bed of the Indus River, Punjab, Pakistan, reveal three new species
During macrofungal surveys in 2019–2024, several specimens belonging to the family Psathyrellaceae were collected from the bed of the Indus River, Punjab, Pakistan. Phylogenetic analyses, based on ITS, LSU, and tef-1α sequences and morpho-anatomical study, confirmed the novelty and placement of three taxa in the genus Candolleomyces. They are described as Candolleomyces crenatus, C. undulatus, and C. virgatus. For distinguishing characters, C. crenatus has crenate cap margins, small basidiospores, and a marginate base of stipe. Candolleomyces undulatus has parabolic to campanulate, wavy margins, light purplish gray with a light brownish gray center of pileus, and an appendiculate, pendant annulus. Candolleomyces virgatus has a parabolic to plane, distinct umbo, a virgate surface of pileus, 1–7 tiers, forking lamellae, and longitudinal striation on the surface of the stipe. Currently, Candolleomyces comprises 60 formally recognized species worldwide. However, with the inclusion of these three species, the total number rises to 63. Detailed descriptions, a phylogenetic estimate, morphological comparisons, and illustrations are provided.
["Caespitose"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two new species of the Fusarium fujikuroi (Hypocreales, Nectriaceae) species complex in China
The Fusarium fujikuroi species complex (FFSC) encompasses a diverse array of more than 80 phylogenetic species with both phytopathological and clinical importance. A stable taxonomy is crucial for species in the FFSC due to their economical relevance. Fungal strains used in this study were obtained from Castanea mollissima and Rubus lambertianus, collected from Beijing and Shaanxi Province. We employ morphological and phylogenetic analyses based on partial gene fragments of the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1), beta-tubulin (tub2), calmodulin (CaM), RNA polymerase largest subunit (rpb1), and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2), as well as the pairwise homoplasy index tests. Studies have shown that these phylospecies are clustered in the Asian clade of the FFSC. The present study delineates two novel Fusarium species within the FFSC, named F. castaneophilum and F. rubicola, complemented by illustrations and descriptions.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food"]

New Aquilariomyces and Mangifericomes species (Pleosporales, Ascomycota) from Aquilaria spp. in China
Saprobic fungi are known for their critical role in decomposition and nutrient cycling. The study of saprobic fungi is equally important, as it helps in understanding their ecological roles and identifying their hidden diversity. This study focused on saprobic fungi on Aquilaria, which is poorly studied compared to economically important hosts like coffee, tea, and rubber. Our rigorous process led to the collection of two new terrestrial saprobic fungi from the Guangdong and Yunnan provinces in China. After extensive phylogenetic analyses and detailed comparison of morphological characteristics, the two collections were identified as two new species belonging to Pleosporales, Ascomycota. Aquilariomyces maomingensis sp. nov. was isolated from Aquilaria sinensis in Guangdong Province, while Mangifericomes aquilariae sp. nov. was isolated from Aquilaria sp. in Yunnan Province. Full descriptions, photo plates, and phylogenetic analyses (maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses based on LSU, ITS, SSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 gene combinations) of the new species are provided, along with a comprehensive list of saprobic fungi associated with Aquilaria spp.
["Wood and Agarwood Research", "Microbial Metabolism and Applications", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Species diversity of Tricholoma (Agaricales, Tricholomataceae) from Shanxi Province of northern China with the description of four new species
Species of Tricholoma are of great economic and ecological value. There are many studies on Tricholoma worldwide, but the areas investigated are generally North America and Europe. There is limited knowledge about Tricholoma in China. In this study, 21 species of Tricholoma were confirmed in Shanxi Province based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses. These species are located in eight sections, viz. sect. Atrosquamosa, sect. Genuina, sect. Lasciva, sect. Matsutake, sect. Pardinicuti, sect. Rigida, sect. Terrea and sect. Tricholoma. Of these, four species are described as new to science: T. flavoviride, T. fumeobrunneum, T. parafulvum, and T. viscidum.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal four new wood-inhabiting fungi of Asterostroma and Radulomyces (Basidiomycota) from Southwestern China
In the ecosystem, wood-inhabiting fungi play an indispensable role in wood degradation and the cycle of substances. They are regarded as the “key player” in the process of wood decomposition because of their ability to produce various enzymes that break down woody lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose. In this study, four new wood-inhabiting fungal species, Asterostroma paramuscicola, Radulomyces bambusinus, R. fissuratus, and R. sinensis, were collected from southwestern China and were proposed based on the morphological and molecular evidence. Asterostroma paramuscicola is characterised by the felted-membranous to pellicular basidiomata with pinkish to slightly salmon-buff, a smooth hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system, and generative hyphae bearing simple-septate and subglobose, thin-walled, echinulate basidiospores measuring as 8–8.8 × 7–8 µm. Radulomyces bambusinus is characterised by the resupinate basidiomata with pinkish-white to pink, a tuberculate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and generative hyphae bearing clamp connections, and subglobose, slightly thick-walled, smooth basidiospores measuring as 6–7.5 × 5.5–7.3 µm. Radulomyces fissuratus is characterised by the coriaceous basidiomata with grey to grey-buff, a tuberculate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and generative hyphae bearing clamp connections, and globose, slightly thick-walled, smooth basidiospores measuring as 7–9.5 × 6.5–8.5 µm. Radulomyces sinensis is characterised by the coriaceous basidiomata with straw to cinnamon to ocherous, a tuberculate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and generative hyphae bearing clamp connections, and broadly ellipsoid, slightly thick-walled, smooth basidiospores measuring as 7.5–9 × 6.2–7.5 µm. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (nrLSU) markers of the studied samples were generated, and phylogenetic analyses were performed with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS+nrLSU nuclear RNA gene regions showed that four new species were assigned to the genera Asterostroma and Radulomyces. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS sequences revealed that A. paramuscicola was closely associated with A. macrosporum and A. muscicola. Based on the ITS sequences, the topology showed that Radulomyces bambusinus was retrieved as a sister to R. zixishanensis. The taxon R. fissuratus forms a monophyletic lineage. The other one species, R. sinensis, was closely associated with R. molaris and R. yunnanensis.

Two new species of Xylaria (Xylariaceae, Ascomycota) associated with fallen leaves in Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, China
Xylaria is a large and complex genus of macrofungi, playing a critical role in ecosystems as decomposers and possessing antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. This paper described two new Xylaria species discovered on fallen leaves in Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, based on morphological characteristics and genetic sequences. Detailed color illustrations and comparisons with similar species were provided. The main characteristics of X. acifer included long, needle-shaped stromata, ellipsoid to fusoid ascospores, and prominent non-cellular appendages. The stromata of X. tuberculosa had an aggregated, knobby fertile part, with smaller ascospores also featuring non-cellular appendages. Additionally, a key to 46 Xylaria species associated with fallen leaves and petioles worldwide was established.
["Foliicolous"]

New species and records of Phaeobotryon (Botryosphaeriales, Botryosphaeriaceae) from Larix in China
During the fungal investigations of Larix hosts in China, ten isolates of Phaeobotryon were obtained from dead and dying branches. Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, and tef1-α loci revealed the presence of two new species, P. laricinum and P. longiparaphysium, as well as two new host records for P. aplosporum and P. rhois from L. olgensis. In this study, we provide descriptions and illustrations of these species, thereby enriching the diversity within the Phaeobotryon taxa.

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal three new plant pathogenic fungi species (Septobasidiales, Basidiomycota) from China
Three new fungal species, Septobasidium macrobasidium, S. puerense and S. wuliangshanense, are proposed based on a combination of the morphological features and molecular evidence. The taxon S. macrobasidium is characterized by the coriaceous basidiomata with a cream surface, cylindrical basidia, straight, 4-celled, subglobose or ovoid probasidia and thin-walled, narrowly cylindrical basidiospores with septa, measuring as 7–9 × 3.5–4.5 µm, the haustoria consisting of irregularly coiled hyphae; in addition, this fungus was found associated with the insect of Diaspididae. The species S. puerense is characterised by resupinate coriaceous basidiomata with a cinnamon brown to chestnut brown surface, cylindrical or slightly irregular basidia, 2-3-celled, slightly curved, subglobose to pyriform probasidia, probasidia cell persistent after the formation of the basidia and the haustoria with two types consisting of irregularly coiled hyphae and spindle-shape. The fungus was found associated with the insect species Pseudaulacaspis pentagona. The species S. wuliangshanense is characterised by the coriaceous basidiomata with a slightly brown surface, cylindrical or slightly irregular basidia, 2-3-celled, straight or slightly curved, pyriform, subglobose or ovoid and probasidia, haustoria consisting of irregularly coiled hyphae, associated with the insect genus Aulacaspis. Sequences of internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) were analysed maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference methods. The new species S. macrobasidium was clustered with S. maesae. Furthermore, S. puerense was retrieved as a sister to S. carestianum. The phylogenetic tree, inferred from the ITS sequences, highlighted that S. wuliangshanense was the sister to S. aquilariae with strong supports. Application of PHI test to the ITS tree-locus sequences revealed no recombination level within phylogenetically related species.
["Forest disease"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Multigene phylogeny, taxonomy, and potential biological properties of Pseudoroussoella and Neoroussoella species (Roussoellaceae, Dothideomycetes) from Asteraceae weeds in northern Thailand
In our study, dead stems of two Asteraceae species (weeds) were collected from northern Thailand. Both morphology and multigene phylogeny were used to determine the identity of the taxa. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses of combined LSU, SSU, ITS, tef1-α and rpb2 data revealed two new species Pseudoroussoella bidenticola, and Neoroussoella chromolaenae with one new host record of N. entadae. Preliminary investigation into antibacterial properties revealed that our three isolates inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, we present updated phylogenetic trees for Roussoellaceae, accompanied by detailed descriptions and illustrations of the three identified species.

Melomastia (Dothideomycetes, Ascomycota) species associated with Chinese Aquilaria spp.
This study is based on three terrestrial saprobic fungi associated with Aquilaria in Guangdong and Yunnan provinces in China. All isolated species matched with generic concepts of Melomastia. Detailed morphological characteristics and combined multigene phylogeny of LSU, SSU, and TEF revealed that the new isolates represent two new species (Melomastia guangdongensis and M. yunnanensis), and one new host and geographical record (M. sinensis). Melomastia guangdongensis is distinct from the phylogenetically closest species in having semi-immersed to immersed, globose to subglobose ascomata, and two strata of the peridium. Melomastia yunnanensis differs from the phylogenetically closest species in having immersed ascomata, conical ostiolar canals, and branched pseudoparaphyses. The discovery of these two new species and one new record collected expands the number of saprobic species associated with Aquilaria from 28 to 31. Descriptions, photo plates, and phylogenetic analyses of taxa are provided.
["Wood and Agarwood Research", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Taxonomic study of Hydnoporia (Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaetaceae) in East Asia with two new species
The genus Hydnoporia (Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaetaceae) was first described by Murrill in 1907. However, species of Hydnoporia were subsequently reclassified into the genera Hymenochaete, Hymenochaetopsis, and Pseudochaete due to overlapping morphological characteristics, leading to multiple synonyms and confusion among researchers. Recent phylogenetic analyses based on multimarker datasets have clarified the diversity and relationships within Hydnoporia, but East Asian species remain underrepresented due to limited morphological data. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive morphological and phylogenetic analysis of East Asian Hydnoporia specimens using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and translation elongation factor 1–α (tef1) regions. From 42 specimens, we identified six species, including two novel species, Hydnoporia orienticorrugata sp. nov. and Hydnoporia subtabacina sp. nov., and we report Hydnoporia rimosa for the first time in Korea. Phylogenetic analyses also support the recombination of Hymenochaete intricata and Hymenochaetopsis rigidula as Hydnoporia intricata comb. nov. and Hydnoporia rigidula comb. nov., respectively. By elucidating the phylogenetic relationships and morphological traits of Hydnoporia species from East Asia, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the global diversity and phylogeny of the genus.
["Hymenochaete"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Unveiling two new species of Trichoderma (Hypocreales, Hypocreaceae) that cause green mold disease on Stropharia rugosoannulata from Guizhou Province, China
Stropharia rugosoannulata is an important edible mushroom in China, but green mold disease has caused significant production and economic losses. In this study, two new pathogens Trichoderma strophariensis and T. viridistromatis were identified as the causal agents of this disease. During October-November 2023, six strains of the fungal pathogen were isolated from infected fruiting bodies of S. rugosoannulata and identified based on morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses of internal transcribed spacer (nrITS), the second largest RNA polymerase II subunit (rpb2) and the partial translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) region. The representative isolates of the pathogenic green mold Trichoderma species were used to perform a pathogenicity test with spore suspensions, resulting in symptoms similar to those observed in the cultivated field. The same pathogens were successfully re-isolated, thereby fulfilling Koch’s postulates. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, culture characteristics, and comparisons with morphologically similar and closely related species are provided.

Unveiling species diversity within early-diverging fungi from China II: Three new species of Absidia (Cunninghamellaceae, Mucoromycota) from Hainan Province
Absidia is distributed worldwide and primarily isolated from soil, feces, and decaying plants. The genus was initially classified into Absidiaceae and then Mucoraceae, and currently belongs to Cunninghamellaceae and is further divided into Absidia s.s., Lichtheimia, and Lentamyces. Three new species of Absidia s.s. are identified and described from soil in Hainan Province of China based on morphological characteristics, molecular data, and maximum growth temperatures as well. They are named based on distinct shapes of projections on columellae: A. crystalloides sp. nov. (crystal-like), A. pacifica sp. nov. (pacifier-like), A. pateriformis sp. nov. (bowling-like). In SSU-ITS-LSU-TEF-Act phylogram, the A. crystalloides is closely related to A. oblongispora and A. heterospora, the A. pacifica is a sister group with A. edaphica, and the A. pateriformis has a close relationship with A. jiangxiensis. This study enriches the species diversity of Absidia in China.
["Basal fungi"]

Three new species of the genus Kockovaella (Cuniculitremaceae, Tremellales) from the phylloplane in China
Kockovaella, in the family Cuniculitremaceae of the order Tremellales, is a globally distributed genus of blastoconidia-forming fungi. Currently, 23 species have been described and accepted as members of the genus. In this study, five yeast strains were isolated from plant leaf surfaces collected in the Fujian and Guizhou Provinces of China and identified through a combination of morphological and molecular methods. The related phenotypic features and molecular phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, LSU, and RPB1 sequences demonstrated that they were members of three novel Kockovaella species: K. iteae sp. nov., K. quanzhouensis sp. nov., and K. sambucuse sp. nov. These species were described in detail and discussed relative to other species. This study demonstrated the novel geographical distribution as well as the high species diversity of Kockovaella in China and offered more data for further studies in fungal systematics and evolution.

Unveiling species diversity within early-diverging fungi from China III: Six new species and a new record of Gongronella (Cunninghamellaceae, Mucoromycota)
Gongronella had accommodated only two species for more than half a century and as many as 17 new species have been described in this genus since 2015. However, no systematic studies were conducted for this genus so far. The distribution, substrate and morphology of all known species in Gongronella are analysed herein. Meanwhile, with the support of phylogenetic and morphological evidence, six new species (G. abortosporangia sp. nov., G. apophysata sp. nov., G. bawanglingensis sp. nov., G. inconstans sp. nov., G. pingtangensis sp. nov. and G. reniformis sp. nov.) are proposed and G. pamphilae is recorded from China for the first time. The phylogenetic tree was constructed using ITS+LSU+TEF+ACT+RPB1 and the results were basically the same as ITS+LSU. All species of Gongronella, except G. namwonensis from fresh water, were isolated from soil. The genus is distributed worldwide, mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. A synoptic key is provided for a total of 24 species (18 species previously published and six species newly described herein), except for G. banzhaoae due to unavailable protologue, type and living culture. No morphologies were described when G. pamphilae was proposed. Thanks to the strains isolated in this study, G. pamphilae is included in the key and reported as a Chinese new record. This is the first comprehensive taxonomy and phylogeny of the genus Gongronella.
["Mucoromycota"]

Thyridium lauri sp. nov. (Thyridiaceae, Thyridiales): a new pathogenic fungal species of bay laurel from Italy
Laurus nobilis is an important Mediterranean tree and shrub native to Italy that is also commercially grown as spice and ornamental plant. Field surveys conducted since 2021 in Sicily (Italy) revealed that bay laurel plants in urban and private gardens and nurseries were severely affected by symptoms of stem blight and internal necrosis, which were associated with ambrosia beetle entry holes in the bark and internal wood galleries. The occurring ambrosia beetle was identified as Xylosandrus compactus, an invasive wood-boring pest previously reported from Sicily. Investigation of fungi from symptomatic tissues primarily resulted in the isolation of Thyridium-like colonies. The main symbiont of X. compactus, Ambrosiella xylebori, was also isolated from infested plants. Phylogenetic analyses of a combined matrix of ITS, LSU, act1, rpb2, tef1, and tub2 gene regions revealed that the isolated Thyridium-like colonies represent a new fungal species within the genus Thyridium. Based on both phylogeny and morphology, the new isolated fungus is described as Thyridium lauri sp. nov. Moreover, two recently described species, Phialemoniopsis hipposidericola and Phialemoniopsis xishuangbannaensis, are transferred to the genus Thyridium due to the confirmed synonymy of both genera, as supported by molecular phylogenies. Pathogenicity test conducted on potted plants demonstrated that T. lauri is pathogenic to bay laurel, causing internal necrosis and stem blight. The new species was consistently re-isolated from the symptomatic tissue beyond the inoculation point, thereby fulfilling Koch’s postulates. This study represents the first report of a new pathogenic fungus, T. lauri, causing stem blight and internal necrosis of bay laurel plants and associated with infestation of the invasive ambrosia beetle X. compactus.
["Fungal diseases"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Phylogenetic analysis shows that Pyrenula (Pyrenulaceae) diversity is larger than expected: three new species and one new record discovered in China
The lichenised fungal genus Pyrenula is a very common crustose lichen element in tropical to subtropical forests, but little research has been done on this genus in China. We carried out an integrative taxonomic study on Pyrenula in China using morphological, anatomical, chemical characters, and molecular data (ITS, nuLSU, mtSSU). Three new species with muriform ascospores containing red oil when over-mature were found: Pyrenula submacularis sp. nov., P. yunguiensis sp. nov. and P. rufotetraspora sp. nov. Molecular data and TLC results of P. macularis and P. breutelii are for the first time reported and show that they are not synonyms. This is the first report of P. breutelii in China. Contrary to the previous reports of this genus, we found lichen substances in all the five species in this study, seemingly terpenoids. A key for the Pyrenula species reported in China is provided.
["Chemical substances"]

Two new Cordyceps-like species, Perennicordyceps zongqii sp. nov. (Polycephalomycetaceae) and Purpureocillium zongqii sp. nov. (Ophiocordycipitaceae), in Hypocreales from karst region of China
Two new Cordyceps-like species, Perennicordyceps zongqii and Purpureocillium zongqii, isolated from a larva and soil, are introduced. Morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses based on multigene datasets (ITS, LSU, RPB2 and TEF) support the establishment of the new species. Moreover, new species in the families Polycephalomycetaceae and Ophiocordycipitaceae were introduced into Tiankeng and the valley for the first time. Further attention needs to be paid to the diversity of other Cordyceps-like fungi in the special eco-environment of the karst region.
["Cordyceps-like species"]
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Morphological and molecular identification for four new wood-inhabiting species of Lyomyces (Basidiomycota) from China
Fungi are one of the most diverse groups of organisms on Earth, in which the wood-inhabiting fungi play an important role in forest ecosystem processes and functions. Four new wood-inhabiting fungi, Lyomyces hengduanensis, L. niveomarginatus, L. wumengshanensis and L. zhaotongensis, are proposed, based on morphological features and molecular evidence. Lyomyces hengduanensis differs in the brittle basidiomata with pruinose hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid basidiospores (3.5–6 × 3–4.5 µm). Lyomyces niveomarginatus is distinguished by the subceraceous basidiomata with crackled hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid basidiospores (4.5–7 × 3–4 µm). Lyomyces wumengshanensis is distinguished by the grandinioid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid to broad ellipsoid basidiospores (4–6 × 3–5 µm). Lyomyces zhaotongensis is unique in the grandinioid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring as 2.6–3.5 × 2.5–3 µm. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated and phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylogram, based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions, included three genera within the Schizoporaceae viz. Fasciodontia, Lyomyces and Xylodon, in which the four new species were grouped into Lyomyces. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS sequences highlighted that L. hengduanensis group with L. zhaotongensis and then closely grouped with L. crustosus, L. ochraceoalbus, and L. vietnamensis. The new taxon L. niveomarginatus was retrieved as a sister to L. juniperi. The new species L. wumengshanensis was sister to L. macrosporus. The new taxon L. zhaotongensis grouped with L. hengduanensis and then closely grouped with L. crustosus, L. ochraceoalbus and L. vietnamensis.

Morpho-phylogenetic evidence reveals novel species and new records of Nigrograna (Nigrogranaceae) associated with medicinal plants in Southwestern China
During a survey of saprobic fungal niches in Southwestern China, eighteen ascomycetous collections of Nigrograna (Nigrogranaceae, Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes) were found on dead branches of medicinal plants. These taxa were characterized and identified based on morphological and culture characteristics, and phylogenetic analyses of a combined the internal transcribed spacer region of rDNA (ITS), nuclear large subunit rDNA (28S, LSU), RNA polymerase second-largest subunit (rpb2), nuclear small subunit rDNA (18S, SSU), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) sequence dataset also confirmed their placement. As a result, four novel species, namely Nigrograna camelliae, N. guttulata, N. longiorostiolata and N. neriicola were described. Additionally, four new host records of N. acericola, N. magnoliae, N. oleae and N. thymi were introduced. Furthermore, this study addresses the taxonomic status of N. trachycarpi, proposing its synonymy under N. oleae. Detailed illustrations, descriptions and informative notes for each newly identified taxon and novel host record are provided in this study.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Morpho-molecular analysis of two new species Deconica and Entocybe in Agaricales from Mount Tianmu, China
Two new species of Agaricales, Deconica flavum and Entocybe roseoalbus, are described from Mount Tianmu, Zhejiang Province, Eastern China. Two new species are distinct and monophyletic based on morphology and phylogenetic analyses. Deconica flavum differs from other Deconica species in that the pileus is brow shallow in the center and stipe with yellowish white fibrils, scatted on litter under coniferous and broad-leaved mixed forest at 1162 m. Entocybe roseoalbus is distinguished from other species of Entocybe by nearly blue pileus and pinkish-white stipe, scatted on humus in similar forest conditions at 1025 m. The differences are discussed between the two new taxa and their similar species morphologically, and related species phylogenetically.
["Entolomataceae"]

Three new wood-inhabiting fungi of Botryobasidium (Cantharellales, Basidiomycota) from subtropical forests of Southwestern China
The basidiomycete genus Botryobasidium is a resupinate saprotrophic with a global distribution range from coniferous to broad-leaved forest ecosystems. Though numerous species have been reported from Eurasia and North America, few have been described from China. In the current work, phylogenetic analyses of Botryobasidium in China were conducted based on the dataset of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions and the large subunit (LSU) of nuclear ribosomal RNA gene. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses were used to reconstruct the phylogenetic tree, and three new species, namely Botryobasidium acanthosporum, B. leptocystidiatum and B. subovalibasidium, were described from subtropical forests of Yunnan Province, Southwestern China. Botryobasidium acanthosporum is characterized by having yellowish white to dark yellow basidiome, clavate to tubular cystidia, and subglobose to globose basidiospores with obtuse spines. Botryobasidium leptocystidiatum is characterized by having fluffy to arachnoid, greyish white to ivory basidiome, generative hyphae with clamped, tubular cystidia, and subnavicular to navicular basidiospores. While, B. subovalibasidium is characterized by having yellowish to ivory basidiome, subovoid basidia, navicular to suburniform basidiospores, and thick-walled chlamydospores. These three new species are described and illustrated, and the discriminating characters between the new species and their closely related species are discussed. A key to known species of Botryobasidium in China is provided.
["Botryobasidiaceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new species of Cytospora (Diaporthales, Cytosporaceae) causing canker disease of Malus domestica and M. sieversii in Xinjiang, China
Apple tree canker is a serious disease caused by species of Cytospora. Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is one of the most important apple-producing areas in China. However, losses due to apple Cytospora canker have seriously damaged the apple industry and affected the economic development of the apple growers in this region. In this study, we used morphological characteristics combined with multilocus phylogenetic analyses of the ITS, act, rpb2, tef1 and tub2 loci to identify isolates from apple (Malus domestica) and wild apple (M. sieversii). As a result, C. hippophaopsis sp. nov. from M. sieversii and C. shawanensis sp. nov. from M. domestica were discovered and proposed herein. Pathogenicity tests were further conducted on 13 varieties of apple and wild apple, which confirmed C. hippophaopsis and C. shawanensis as canker pathogens. Meanwhile, C. hippophaopsis is generally more aggressive than C. shawanensis on the tested varieties of apple and wild apple.
["Apple"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Unveiling species diversity within early-diverging fungi from China I: three new species of Backusella (Backusellaceae, Mucoromycota)
The species diversity of early-diverging fungi has long lagged behind that of higher fungi, posing a significant obstacle to our comprehensive understanding of the fungal kingdom. Our ongoing research endeavors aim to address this gap by exploring the species diversity of early-diverging fungi in China. In this study, we describe three novel species within the Backusella, namely B. elliptica sp. nov., B. fujianensis sp. nov., and B. variispora sp. nov., based on phylogenetic and morphological analyses. In the phylogenetic analysis of the ITS (internal transcribed spacer), LSU (large subunit of ribosomal RNA gene), and RPB1 (RNA polymerase II largest subunit gene) regions, the B. elliptica and B. fujianensis cluster closely with B. gigacellularis, B. ovalispora, and B. solicola, and the B. variispora is closely related to B. locustae and B. pernambucensis. Morphologically, B. elliptica is distinguished by elliptical sporangiospores, as well as cylindrical and hemispherical columellae. The B. fujianensis is characterized by elliptical sporangiospores, and various types of columellae such as hemispherical, subglobose, depressed globose and conical. The B. variispora is characterized by subglobose to globose sporangiospores, as well as hemispherical, subglobose to globose columellae. Additionally, the sporangiophores are long and monopodially branched in B. elliptica and B. fujianensis, while short and simple or sympodially branched in B. variispora. Physiologically, the maximum growth temperatures of B. elliptica (32 °C), B. fujianensis (35 °C), and B. variispora were (35 °C) were determined. With the inclusion of these newly described taxa, the total number of Backusella species known from China now stands at 12. Finally, we provide a key to facilitate the morphological identification of Backusella species from Asia.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

New Helminthosporium (Massarinaceae, Dothideomycetes) and Nigrospora (Incertae sedis, Sordariomycetes) species associated with walnut (Juglans regia L.) in China
Six collections of ascomycetes were obtained from samples collected from dead branches and leaves of Juglans regia in Guizhou and Yunnan provinces, China. By incorporating multigene phylogenetic analysis (ITS, LSU, rpb2, SSU, tef1-α, tub2) supplemented by morphological data, we establish two novel species, namely Helminthosporium guizhouense and Nigrospora yunnanensis. In morphology, H. guizhouense can be distinguished from H. caespitosum by its narrower conidia (13–16 µm vs. 27.3–35.5 µm), and N. yunnanensis is characterized by black, globose conidia (16.2 × 14.4 µm). The phylogenetic results further substantiated them as novel taxa. The present study contributes to our comprehension of the range of fungi found in Juglans regia, thereby expanding our knowledge of the diversity of fungi within this host.

Two new species of Parastagonospora and a new species of Phaeoseptoriella (Phaeosphaeriaceae, Pleosporales) from grasslands in Yunnan Province, China
During our investigation of microfungi on grasslands in Yunnan Province, China, three new fungal taxa associated with grasses were collected. Morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses of the combined SSU, LSU, ITS, tef1-α, and rpb2 loci based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference were used to reveal the taxonomic placement of these fungal taxa. This study introduces Parastagonospora yunnanensis, Para. zhaotongensis, Phaeoseptoriella poaceicola. Parastagonospora yunnanensis is characterized by ampulliform or globose to subglobose conidiogenous cells, with conidia that are cylindrical to subcylindrical, 0–1-septate, rounded at the apex and slightly truncate at the base. Parastagonospora zhaotongensis features similar globose to subglobose conidiogenous cells but with 0–3-septate, cylindrical to subcylindrical conidia. Phaeoseptoriella poaceicola is distinguished by its globose to subglobose conidiogenous cells and phragmosporous conidia that are initially hyaline, turn pale yellowish at maturity, and are 7-septate, cylindrical to subcylindrical, either straight or slightly curved. These discoveries underscore the significance of exploring and accurately identifying fungal taxa within Ascomycota, highlighting the species richness and potential for new species discoveries in grass-based habitats. The findings from this study expand our understanding of the taxonomy and phylogeny of grassland-associated Ascomycota, providing a foundation for further ecological and taxonomic studies of these fungi within their natural environments.

Three novel Ascomycota (Saccharomycetes, Saccharomycetales) yeast species derived from the traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage Pulque
The abundant variety of yeasts and their diverse applications have essential roles in traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage fermentation processes. During our investigation of yeast diversity associated with Pulque, 41 yeast strains were characterized. Among them, 31 strains were eight known species belonging to seven genera. According to morphological and phylogenetic analyses (ITS and LSU rDNA), ten unidentified yeast strains were identified to be three novel species and proposed: Starmerella elongatum sp. nov., Kazachstania paragamospora sp. nov. and Pichia teotihuacanensis sp. nov. Our study has resulted in the isolation of yeast species not previously detected in Pulque, expanding our knowledge of the diversity of its associated yeast communities.
["Fermentation and Sensory Analysis", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

Two new species of Pholiota (Agaricales, Strophariaceae) from the southwest of China
Two new mushroom species from Southwest China, Pholiota cylindrospora and P. subterrestris, are described in this study. Pholiota cylindrospora is characterized by its dry pileus with slightly recurved and triangular scales, cylindrical basidiospores, and two types of pleurocystidia—leptocystidia and chrysocystidia—as well as its growth on soil. Pholiota subterrestris is identified by a brownish-orange pileus with numerous brown fibrillose scales; pale brown lamellae with even edges; a stipe covered with recurved fibrillose scales; elliptical spores with a distinct but small germ pore; and pleurocystidia containing typical amorphous refractive inclusions of chrysocystidia. Both species are described and illustrated, and a phylogenetic analysis of a multigene dataset (ITS + 28S) is presented. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses confirm that P. cylindrospora and P. subterrestris are distinct from the other Pholiota species, and both belong to the subgenus Pholiota. A key to the species of subgenus Pholiota from China is provided.
["Chrysocystidia"]

A high species diversity of Lyomyces (Basidiomycota, Hymenochaetales) in Central and South America, revealed after morphological and molecular analysis
A study of corticioid fungi collections from Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador has resulted in the identification of 26 morphospecies of Lyomyces. These distinctions were made based on characters such as basidiospore size and shape, cystidia morphology, basidioma texture, and hymenial surface configuration. Sequences of rDNA ITS were obtained for 12 of these species, and their relationships to previously known taxa were illustrated using Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood reconstructions of the phylogeny. Protologues are given for 10 new species of Lyomyces: L. boquetensis (found in Panama, belonging to L. sambuci group), L. granulosus (from Costa Rica and Panama, related to L. fimbriatus), L. napoensis (from Ecuador, related to L. elaeidicola), L. neocrustosus (from Panama, L. crustosus group), L. oleifer (from Ecuador, L. crustosus group), L. pantropicus (from Panama and Ecuador, related to L. microfasciculatus), L. orarius (from Ecuador, L. sambuci group), L. parvus (from Costa Rica and Ecuador, L. crustosus group), L. sceptrifer (from Ecuador, related to L. gatesiae), and L. subcylindricus (from Panama, L. crustosus group). Macro- and micro-morphology illustrations are provided for these new species. Additionally, the range of L. organensis is extended to Ecuador. Scanning electron microscopy of crystalline deposits in basidiomata has shown the differences in crystal size and aggregation manner between species.
["Crystals SEM"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Addition of three new species of Xylariomycetidae fungi on bamboo from Southern China
In our ongoing research on bambusicolous Xylariomycetidae fungi, three new microfungi taxa were collected and identified as members of the genera Amphibambusa, Arecophila, and Nigropunctata. Amphibambusa aureae sp. nov., Arecophila gaofengensis sp. nov., and Nigropunctata xiaohensis sp. nov. are introduced based on morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses using combined ITS, LSU, tub2, and tef1α loci. Comprehensive morphological descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree showcasing the placement of these new taxa are provided. Additionally, keys to Amphibambusa and Nigropunctata are provided.
["Cainiaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

Chlorocillium sinense sp. nov. (Clavicipitaceae) and Calcarisporium guizhouense sp. nov. (Calcarisporiaceae) in Hypocreales from China
Two new species, Chlorocillium sinense and Calcarisporium guizhouense, isolated from a spider and fruiting body of Cordyceps sp., are introduced. Morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses based on multigene datasets (ITS+LSU+RPB2+tef-1alpha) support the establishment of the new species. A combined dataset of ITS, LSU, RPB2, and tef-1alpha showed the taxonomic placement of Chlorocillium in Clavicipitaceae for the first time. Pseudometarhizium is regarded as a synonym of Chlorocillium and two Pseudometarhizium species are transferred into the latter based on the phylogenetic analysis and morphological characteristics.
["Entomopathogenic fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and fungal interactions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Mitogenomics, phylogeny and morphology reveal two new entomopathogenic species of Ophiocordyceps (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) from south-western China
Ophiocordyceps encompasses over 300 species, demonstrating a wide range of morphological features, hosts and habitats within its species diversity. In this study, two novel species in Ophiocordyceps were revealed parasitising Hepialidae larva buried in soil. Ophiocordyceps albastroma was morphologically characterised by white stromata, solitary and cylindrical conidiogenous cells and smooth ovoid or ellipsoidal conidia. Ophiocordyceps nigristroma was characterised by woody and dark brown stromata, monophialidic, swollen base and lageniform conidiogenous cells and smooth fusiform or oval conidia. The two new species formed a separate clade, respectively, based on the phylogenetic analyses of a combined dataset including nrSSU, nrLSU, rpb1, rpb2, and tef-1α, as well as a dataset of mitochondrial 14 protein coding genes (PCGs). They were all closely grouped with O. sinensis. The mitochondrial genomes of them were first reported. Their mitogenomes were all typical of circular molecules, with positive AT and GC skew, similar GC content, similar genetic composition, similar codon usage and conservative gene positions. However, the length of the mitogenomes varied. Changes in the length of the genes were the leading cause of changes in the length of mitochondrial genome of Ophiocordyceps. The discovery and identification of new Ophiocordyceps species and analysis their mitochondrial genomes may serve as foundations for phylogeny and diversity research within the genus Ophiocordyceps.
["Hepialidae"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Morphological and molecular identification of two new Marasmiellus species (Omphalotaceae, Agaricales) from Thailand
Marasmiellus (Omphalotaceae, Agaricales) specimens collected in Thailand were investigated based on morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses. In the present study, two species are introduced as new to science, namely Marasmiellus thailandicus and M. minutisporus. Phylogenetic analyses were carried out based on the internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and nuclear ribosomal RNA large subunit (nrLSU) regions, and the results revealed that the two new taxa are distinct species within Marasmiellus. Another specimen was identified as M. scandens and is reported for the first time with morphology and molecular data from Thailand. Descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic results are provided. In addition, M. diaphanus and M. colocasiae are proposed as new combinations of Collybiopsis diaphana and Paramarasmius colocasiae, respectively, based on the phylogenetic evidence.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

The diversity and taxonomy of Tomentella (Thelephoraceae, Thelephorales) with descriptions of four new species from Southwestern China
Taxonomy plays a central role in understanding the diversity of life, translating the products of biological exploration and discovery specimens and observations into systems of names that settle a “classification home” to taxa. Up to this point, studies on the taxonomy and phylogeny of the basidiomycetous genus Tomentella stemmed mainly from the temperate to boreal zones of the North Hemisphere, but were scarce in tropical Asia. In this study, four new species, viz. Tomentella olivaceobasidiosa, T. velutina, T. wumenshanensis and T. yunnanensis from China, are described and illustrated based on the morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses, in which the sequences of ITS+nLSU+mtSSU+RPB2 genes were used for the phylogenetic analyses using Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian Inference methods. All the new species can be well recognised by their macroscopical and anatomical characteristics. The four new species, closely related taxa in the phylogenetic tree and morphologically similar species are discussed.

Three new taxa of the lichen genus Lobothallia (Megasporaceae, Ascomycota) from China
Two new species; Lobothallia crenulata Lun Wang & Y. Y. Zhang, L. lobulata Lun Wang & Y. Y. Zhang and one new variety; L. subdiffracta var. rimosa Lun Wang & Y. Y. Zhang, are reported from China and described, based on morphological, chemical and molecular characters. Phylogenetic analyses showed that these new taxa form monophyletic groups. Lobothallia crenulata and L. lobulata, together with L. hydrocharis, L. radiosa and L. recedens, form a well-supported clade, whereas L. subdiffracta var. rimosa is nested within the samples of L. subdiffracta. Lobothallia crenulata is characterised by its placodioid thallus, thickly pruinose upper surface with a rimose appearance, aspicilioid to lecanorine apothecia with a crenate thalline margin and concave, black and pruinose discs. Lobothallia lobulata is characterised by its placodioid thallus, pruinose upper surface with lobules, aspicilioid when immature, lecanorine to zeorine apothecia at maturity and concave to plane, dark brown, shiny and epruinose discs. Lobothallia subdiffracta var. rimosa is characterised by its areolate thallus, rimose and pruinose upper surface, lecanorine apothecia and slightly concave to plane, black and pruinose discs. Secondary metabolites were not detected in the two new species nor the new variety. A key is provided for the species of Lobothallia in China.

New species of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) from Bauhinia variegata in China
Diaporthe species are known as endophytes, saprobes and pathogens infecting a wide range of plants and resulting in important crop diseases. In the present study, four strains of Diaporthe were obtained from diseased leaves of Bauhinia variegata in Guangdong Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted to identify these strains using five gene regions: internal transcribed spacer (ITS), calmodulin (cal), histone H3 (his3), translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1) and β-tubulin (tub2). The results combined with morphology revealed two new species of Diaporthe named D. bauhiniicola in D. arecae species complex and D. guangzhouensis in D. sojae species complex.
["Diaporthales"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

Novel Helicoma and Neohelicosporium (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales) species and two new host records of Helicoma on tropical palms (Arecaceae) from China
Asexual species of Tubeufiaceae are characterised as helicosporous hyphomycetes and are abundantly discovered in tropical and subtropical regions. The present study collected helicosporous fungal samples from rotting tissues of Caryota mitis, Elaeis guineensis and E. oleifera in Xishuangbanna, Yunan Province, China. Fungal isolates were identified, based on the morphological characteristics and multi-gene phylogeny with DNA sequence data of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), part of the large subunit nuclear rRNA gene (LSU), translation elongation factor 1-alpha gene (tef 1-α) and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit gene (rpb2). Herein, we introduce three new species viz. Helicoma oleifera, Neohelicosporium guineensis and N. xishuangbannaensis. In addition, we introduce two new host records of Helicoma guttulatum and H. rufum on Caryota mitis. The illustrations of all identified species, detailed descriptions and in-depth phylogenetic analyses are provided. Our results add new knowledge of fungal species associated with palm hosts in southern China. Moreover, our data will contribute to the biodiversity of fungi in tropical China.
["Caryota mitis"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogenic Bacteria Studies"]

Two new species of Metacampanella (Agaricales, Marasmiaceae) from China and Mongolia
Metacampanella is an important genus in the Marasmiaceae family. We collected specimens during our investigations in China and Mongolia. Through morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, we identified two new species of this genus: Metacampanella subtricolor and Metacampanella coprophila. In addition, we identified Metacampanella tricolor as a novel combination. Molecular systematic studies support these results. Illustrated descriptions, taxonomic discussions, and keys to the genus are provided.
["Metacampanella"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Stromatolinea, a new diatrypaceous fungal genus (Ascomycota, Sordariomycetes, Xylariales, Diatrypaceae) from China
Molecular phylogeny and morphological characteristics of collections of diatrypaceous fungi from Guizhou Province, China, lead to the establishment of a new genus, Stromatolinea, and the identification of four new species and two new combinations. The taxa were found growing on the dead culms of Phyllostachys bamboo. The new genus is distinguished by its well-developed, discrete linear stromata with yellow interior tissue and allantoid subhyaline ascospores. The newly described species are Stromatolinea grisea, S. guizhouensis, S. hydei, and S. xishuiensis. Additionally, two new combinations, Stromatolinea linearis and S. phaselina, are proposed based on comparative analysis and morphology. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using ITS and TUB2 sequences. The study includes comprehensive morphological descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree depicting the placement of the new taxa.
["1 new genus"]

Morphology and multigene phylogeny reveal four new Xylaria (Xylariales, Xylariaceae) species from karst region in China
This study presents the identification of four novel Xylaria species, discovered in the karst region of China. The discovery was facilitated by a rigorous analysis that encompassed both morpho-anatomical features and multi-locus phylogenetics utilizing sequences from the ITS, rpb2, and TUB2 loci. The newly identified species are designated as Xylaria jichuanii sp. nov., X. nanningensis sp. nov., X. orientalis sp. nov., and X. taiyangheensis sp. nov. The distinction of these species from their known counterparts was verified through comparison of morphological features and phylogenetic analysis. The study further provides detailed morphological descriptions, illustrative representations, and a phylogenetic tree, all of which contribute to the taxonomic positioning of these novel species.
["Folicolous fungi"]

Three new species of Colletotrichum (Glomerellales, Glomerellaceae) associated with walnut (Juglans regia) anthracnose from China
Colletotrichum species are significant pathogens of various economic plant hosts worldwide. In this study, 45 Colletotrichum isolates were obtained from symptomatic walnut leaves of walnut anthracnose in Shaanxi and Sichuan Provinces. In conjunction with morphological evidence and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of internal transcribed spacer (ITS), actin (act), chitin synthase 1 (chs1), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (gapdh) and beta-tubulin (tub2) sequences support the introduction of three new species, namely Colletotrichum cordae, C. guangyuanense and C. juglandium. Five species of Colletotrichum were identified to be C. fioriniae of the C. acutatum species complex, C. karsti of the C. boninense species complex, C. gloeosporioides, C. mengyinense and C. siamense of the C. gloeosporioides species complex. The three new species are described and illustrated in this paper and compared with taxa in the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides species complex. The current results improve the understanding of Colletotrichum species causing walnut anthracnose in China.
["Glomerellaceae"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of Auriculariales (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) with descriptions of four new species from south-western China
The wood-inhabiting fungi play an integral role in wood degradation and the cycle of matter in the ecological system. They are considered as the “key player” in wood decomposition, because of their ability to produce lignocellulosic enzymes that break down woody lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose. In the present study, four new wood-inhabiting fungal species, Adustochaete albomarginata, Ad. punctata, Alloexidiopsis grandinea and Al. xantha collected from southern China, are proposed, based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Adustochaete albomarginata is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with cream to buff, a smooth, cracked, hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and subcylindrical to allantoid basidiospores (12–17.5 × 6.5–9 µm). Adustochaete punctata is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with cream, a smooth, punctate hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and subcylindrical to allantoid basidiospores (13.5–18 × 6–8.2 µm). Alloexidiopsis grandinea is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with buff to slightly yellowish, a grandinioid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and allantoid basidiospores (10–12.3 × 5–5.8 µm). Additionally, Alloexidiopsis xantha is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with cream to slightly buff, a smooth hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and subcylindrical to allantoid basidiospores measuring 20–24 × 5–6.2 µm. Sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (nrLSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) markers of the studied samples were generated. Phylogenetic analyses were performed with the Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylogram, based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions, revealed that four new species were assigned to the genera Adustochaete and Alloexidiopsis within the order Auriculariales, individually. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS sequences highlighted that Ad. albomarginata was retrieved as a sister to Ad. yunnanensis and the species Ad. punctata was sister to Ad. rava. The topology, based on the ITS sequences, showed that Al. grandinea was retrieved as a sister to Al. schistacea and the taxon Al. xantha formed a monophyletic lineage. Furthermore, two identification keys to Adustochaete and Alloexidiopsis worldwide are provided.

Three new species of the genus Clavulina (Hydnaceae, Cantharellales) from North China based on morphological and phylogenetic analysis
Clavulina possesses important ecological and economic value and has attracted extensive attention from mycologists. Macrofungal diversity is high in China, but Clavulina species have not been thoroughly studied. In this study, based on morphological evidence and phylogenetic analyses of the nucleotide sequences of three loci (nrITS, nrLSU, and rpb2), three new species of Clavulina from North China were identified. Morphologically, Clavulina chengdeensis is characterized by its white to dirty white basidiomata with somewhat pale orange tips and somewhat wrinkled hymenium. Clavulina griseoviolacea is characterized by its gray to dark grayish violet basidiomata, with a sometimes-white stipe base, monopodial or irregularly polychotomous toward branch apices. Clavulina pallida is characterized by its white to pale cream white basidiomata with somewhat orange tips. Phylogenetically, the three new species form three independent branches with high support values in the phylogenetic tree.
["Clavarioid fungi"]

Unveiling fungi associated with Castanopsis woody litter in Yunnan Province, China: Insights into Pleosporales (Dothideomycetes) species
During a survey of the diversity of lignicolous fungi in Yunnan Province, China, we collected and identified five microfungi species from dead woody litters of Castanopsis trees in terrestrial habitats. Through both morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses of multi-gene sequences, we identified two taxa as new species and three collections as new host records within Pleosporales. Pseudolophiostoma lincangense sp. nov. is introduced as a sexual morph in Lophiostomataceae, Pleopunctum baoshanense sp. nov. is introduced as a hyphomycetous fungi in Phaeoseptaceae, and Paraphoma aquatica as a first report of sexual morph in Paraphoma. In addition, Occultibambusa kunmingensis and Pleopunctum megalosporum were isolated for the first time from the dead twigs of Castanopsis delavayi and C. calathiformis, respectively. Comprehensive morphological descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic analysis results are provided for the above-mentioned species.
["Hyphomycetes"]

Three new ramarioid species of Phaeoclavulina (Gomphaceae, Gomphales) from China
Three new species of Phaeoclavulina from China are described: Phaeoclavulina bicolor, P. echinoflava, and P. jilinensis. Recognition of the new species is supported by morphological and molecular evidence. Phylogenetic analyses of concatenated ITS1–5.8S–ITS2 and nuclear large subunit sequences support the establishment of the new species and their placement within the Phaeoclavulina clade. A key to the known Phaeoclavulina species in China is provided.
["Morphological characters"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Campanophyllum microsporum (Agaricales, Agaricomycetes), Calocera multiramosa, and Dacrymyces naematelioides (Dacrymycetales, Dacrymycetes), three new species from Yunnan Province, southwestern China
Three new species belonging to Basidiomycota from southwestern China are described based on morphological and molecular data. Campanophyllum microsporum is morphologically characterized by dorsally pseudostipitate, pale orange to brownish orange pileus, excentric to lateral pseudostipe, crowded lamellae, cylindrical-ellipsoid basidiospores 3.0–4.2 × 1.7–2.2 µm, narrowly clavate to clavate basidia 14.5–23.0 × 3.0–4.2 µm, and cylindrical to clavate cheilocystidia 22.0–55.0 × 5.0–10.8 µm. Calocera multiramosa is morphologically characterized by stipitate, yellowish to orange, dendroid, and dichotomously branched basidiomata, cylindrical to clavate basidia 36.5–52.5 × 3.8–6.1 µm, navicular or reniform, 1–5-septate mature basidiospores 10.4–16.7 × 5.2–7.4 µm. Dacrymyces naematelioides is morphologically characterized by stipitate and cerebriform, orange to light brown basidiomata, cylindrical to clavate, smooth or roughened basidia 38.5–79.5 × 6.5–10.6 µm, broadly and elliptic-fusiform, 7-septate mature basidiospores 18.5–28.6 × 8.9–13.8 µm. These three new species are supported by the phylogenetic analyses using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) analyses with combined nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large ribosomal subunit (LSU) sequences. Full descriptions and photographs of these new species are provided.

Phylogenetic classification of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi: new species and higher-ranking taxa in Glomeromycota and Mucoromycota (class Endogonomycetes)
Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi - Glomeromycota and Endogonomycetes - comprise multiple species and higher-level taxa that have remained undescribed. We propose a mixed morphology- and DNA-based classification framework to promote taxonomic communication and shed light into the phylogenetic structure of these ecologically essential fungi. Based on eDNA samples and long reads as type materials, we describe 15 new species and corresponding genera (Pseudoentrophospora kesseensis, Hoforsa rebekkae, Kahvena rebeccae, Kelottijaervia shannonae, Kungsaengena shadiae, Langduoa dianae, Lehetua indrekii, Lokruma stenii, Moostea stephanieae, Nikkaluokta mahdiehiae, Parnigua craigii, Riederberga sylviae, Ruua coralieae, Tammsaarea vivikae and Unemaeea nathalieae), the genus Parvocarpum as well as 19 families (Pseudoentrophosporaceae, Hoforsaceae, Kahvenaceae, Kelottijaerviaceae, Kungsaengenaceae, Langduoaceae, Lehetuaceae, Lokrumaceae, Moosteaceae, Nikkaluoktaceae, Parniguaceae, Riederbergaceae, Ruuaceae, Tammsaareaceae, Unemaeeaceae, Bifigurataceae, Planticonsortiaceae, Jimgerdemanniaceae and Vinositunicaceae) and 17 orders (Hoforsales, Kahvenales, Kelottijaerviales, Kungsaengenales, Langduoales, Lehetuales, Lokrumales, Moosteales, Nikkaluoktales, Parniguales, Riederbergales, Ruuales, Tammsaareales, Unemaeeales, Bifiguratales and Densosporales), and propose six combinations (Diversispora bareae, Diversispora nevadensis, Fuscutata cerradensis, Fuscutata reticulata, Viscospora deserticola and Parvocarpum badium) based on phylogenetic evidence. We highlight further knowledge gaps in the phylogenetic structure of AM fungi and propose an alphanumeric coding system for preliminary communication and reference-based eDNA quality-filtering of the remaining undescribed genus- and family-level groups. Using AM fungi as examples, we hope to offer a sound, mixed framework for classification to boost research in the alpha taxonomy of fungi, especially the “dark matter fungi”.
["Dark taxa"]

Morphology and multigene phylogeny revealed four new species of Xylodon (Schizoporaceae, Basidiomycota) from southern China
Fungi are one of the most diverse groups of organisms on Earth, amongst which wood-inhabiting fungi play a crucial role in ecosystem processes and functions. Four new wood-inhabiting fungi, Xylodon cremeoparinaceus, X. luteodontioides, X. poroides and X. wumengshanensis are proposed, based on morphological features and molecular evidence. Xylodon cremeoparinaceus is distinguished by a cream hymenial surface with a pruinose hymenophore, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Xylodon luteodontioides is characterised by flavescens hymenophore surface with odontioid hymenophore, monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Xylodon poroides bears coriaceous basidiomata with a poroid hymenophore surface, monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Xylodon wumengshanensis is a distinct taxon by its grandinoid hymenophore surface, monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated and phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Maximum Likelihood, Maximum Parsimony, and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylogram, based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions, included three genera within the Schizoporaceae as Fasciodontia, Lyomyces and Xylodon. The four new species were grouped into the genus Xylodon. The topology, based on the ITS sequences, revealed that Xylodon cremeoparinaceus was grouped closely with X. pruinosus, X. detriticus and X. ussuriensis. The taxon X. luteodontioides was sister to X. nesporii. The species X. poroides separated from X. pseudotropicus, while X. wumengshanensis was grouped with four taxa: X. patagonicus, X. radula, X. subtropicus and X. taiwanianus.

New species and new records of Laccaria (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) from Northern Thailand
Two new species Laccaria pseudoalba and L. subroseoalbescens are described and illustrated, based on morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analysis. Two new records, Laccaria umbilicata and L. yunnanensis from Thailand, are also reported. Laccaria subroseoalbescens is characterized by small basidiomata, stipe equal with an enlarged base, and nearly subclavate, pale pink to light orange. Laccaria pseudoalba is characterized by pale orange to orange white pileus, has umbo when young on the pileus, and fistulose stipe of the pale to pastel red color. Phylogenetic analysis based on sequence data from rDNA internal transcribed spacer ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA (ITS), nuc 28S rDNA (28S), RNA polymerase II subunit 2 (rpb2), and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α) are provided as further evidence. Molecular analysis confirms the phylogenetic positions of the two new species and two new records. The differences in characteristics of these two new species and closely related species are discussed herein.

Three new Melanogaster species (Boletales, Paxillaceae) from southwestern China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Three newly discovered Melanogaster species, namely M. cyaneus, M. diqingensis, and M. truncatisporus, are introduced and illustrated based on both morphological and molecular data from Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in China. A multigene phylogenetic analysis (nrITS, nrLSU, and rpb2) was performed mainly to verify the placement of the new species in Melanogaster. A second, nrITS-only phylogenetic analysis comprising more Melanogaster species for which only ITS sequences were available, was used to infer the relationship between the new species and as many known Melanogaster species as possible. Specimens of M. cyaneus, M. diqingensis, and M. truncatisporus formed three independent clades in a phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS data set. The robust support from ITS for these clades and genetic similarity with other species being lower than 93.2% suggest that these three species are indeed distinct from the other Melanogaster species in the phylogeny. Morphologically, M. cyaneus is characterized by its blue or bluish gleba, light brown to yellowish brown peridium, and subglobose to globose basidiospores, 6.2–15 × 4.6–9.0 μm. Melanogaster diqingensis is distinguished from other Melanogaster species by its pale yellow to brown-yellow peridium and obovate to subglobose basidiospores, 3.0–5.1 × 2.0–4.0 μm. Melanogaster truncatisporus is diagnosed by its subglobose to globose or irregularly elongate-pyriform basidiomata, pale yellow to deeply orange-yellow peridium, and subglobose to globose or pyriform, truncate basidiospores. Additionally, infrageneric classification based on the number of peridium layers, the average thickness of the peridium, and the average length and width of basidiospores was tested with M. cyaneus, M. diqingensis, and M. truncatisporus. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant (OPLS-DA) analysis placed the three new species within the Melanogaster, Rivulares, and Variegati sections, respectively. However, the morphologically circumscribed sections were not monophyletic in the phylogenetic tree. Therefore, the current infrageneric classification should be abandoned.
["False truffles"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Two new species of Collybiopsis (Agaricales, Omphalotaceae) from Eastern North America
Two small gymnopoid fungi from the southern Appalachian Mountains and Massachusetts, Collybiopsis complicata sp. nov. and C. prolapsis sp. nov., are identified and described. A new generic nrITS-LSU phylogeny of Collybiopsis places C. complicata and C. prolapsis in a small clade together with C. minor, and an unknown taxon from Arkansas. This clade adds to the growing circumscription of Collybiopsis (= Marasmiellus).
["Gymnopus"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Three new species of Pestalotiopsis (Amphisphaeriales, Sporocadaceae) were identified by morphology and multigene phylogeny from Hainan and Yunnan, China
Pestalotiopsis fungi are widely distributed all over the world, mainly as plant pathogens, endophytes or saprobes from multiple hosts. In this study, the sequence data analysis based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS), partial beta-tubulin (tub2) and partial regions of translation elongation factor 1 alpha (tef1α) combined with morphological characteristics was used to identify strains isolated from the diseased leaves of Aporosa dioica and Rhaphiolepis indica, as well as some rotted leaves from Yunnan and Hainan Provinces in China as three new species, viz., Pestalotiopsis aporosae-dioicae sp. nov., P. nannuoensis sp. nov. and P. rhaphiolepidis sp. nov.

Four new species of Russula subsect. Cyanoxanthinae from China (Russulales, Russulaceae)
Four new species of Russula subsect. Cyanoxanthinae, viz. Russula atrochermesina Y.L. Chen & J.F. Liang, R. lavandula Y.L. Chen, B. Chen & J.F. Liang, R. lilaceofusca Y.L. Chen & J.F. Liang and R. perviridis Y.L. Chen, B. Chen & J.F. Liang, from China are proposed, based on morphological and molecular evidence. Russula atrochermesina can be distinguished by its violet pileus with tuberculate-striate margin, distant lamellae that stain greyish-yellow when bruised, basidiospores ornamented by isolated warts, wide hymenial cystidia on lamellae edges, cystidia content negative reaction in sulphovanillin and branched subterminal cells in pileipellis. Russula lavandula has a purplish-white to violet red pileus with a yellow centre, frequently present lamellulae and furcations, stipe often with pale yellow near the base, isolated basidiospores ornamentation and unbranched cuticular hyphal terminations, while R. lilaceofusca is characterised by its lilac brown to dark brown pileus, crowded lamellae with lamellulae and furcations, stipe often turning reddish-yellow when bruised, subreticulate basidiospores ornamentation and clavate hymenial cystidia often with capitate appendage whose contents that change to reddish-black in sulphovanillin. Russula perviridis is characterised by its large basidiomata, smooth pileus surface, frequently present lamellulae and furcations, stipe with yellow-brown tinge, globose to broadly ellipsoid basidiospores with subreticulate ornamentation, long hymenial cystidia that turn greyish-black in sulphovanillin and symbiotic with Quercus semecarpifolia. Phylogenetic analyses, based on multi-gene ITS+LSU+mtSSU+rpb2, indicate that R. atrochermesina, R. lavandula, R. lilaceofusca and R. perviridis are closely related to R. pallidirosea and R. purpureorosea, R. banwatchanensis, R. lakhanpalii and R. nigrovirens, respectively.
["Ectomycorrhiza"]

Recommendations on approving the name “ Entomosporium”, with a new species, E. dichotomanthes from China (Leotiomycetes, Drepanopezizaceae)
The phytopathogenic genus, Entomosporium can cause serious leaf diseases worldwide. Entomosporium has long been regarded as a synonym of Diplocarpon. However, different morphologies between Entomosporium and Diplocarpon make this doubtful. Based on morpho-phylogenetic analyses, the placement of the genus was re-evaluated in this study. The combined the internal transcribed spacer gene region (ITS) and the 28S large subunit ribosomal RNA gene region (LSU) phylogenetic analysis shows that Entomosporium is an independent clade within Drepanopezizaceae and formed a sister clade to the generic type Diplocarpon. Moreover, Hymenula and Pseudopeziza do not cluster in Drepanopezizaceae. We propose to resurrect the name Entomosporium, and exclude Hymenula cerealis and Pseudopeziza medicaginis from Drepanopezizaceae and propose to treat them under Ploettnerulaceae. A new species, E. dichotomanthes is also introduced from China based on morpho-molecular analyses which is associated with Dichotomanthes tristaniicarpa.
["Diplocarpon"]

A phylogenetic study of Micarea melaeniza and similar-looking species (Pilocarpaceae) unveils hidden diversity and clarifies species boundaries and reproduction modes
Micarea (Ascomycota, Pilocarpaceae) is a large cosmopolitan genus of crustose lichens. We investigated molecular systematics and taxonomy of the poorly known Micarea melaeniza group focussing on M. melaeniza, M. nigella and M. osloensis. A total of 54 new sequences were generated and using Bayesian and maximum likelihood analysis of two markers (nuITS and mtSSU), we discovered two previously unrecognized phylogenetic lineages, one of which is described here as Micarea eurasiatica Kantelinen & G. Thor, sp. nov., morphologically characterized by pycnidia that are sessile to emergent, cylindrically shaped, with greenish-black K+ olive green, wall pigmentation and containing large mesoconidia up to 6 µm in length. The species is known from Japan and Finland. In addition, we show that the reproduction biology of M. osloensis has been poorly understood and that the species often occurs as an anamorph with stipitate pycnidia. We present a species synopsis and notes on pigments. Our research supports previous results of asexuality being an important reproductive strategy of species growing on dead wood.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

New species and records of Botryosphaeriales (Dothideomycetes) associated with tree dieback in Beijing, China
Botryosphaeriales species are important pathogens that have worldwide distribution. In this study, 23 Botryosphaeriales strains were isolated from 13 host species during a dieback disease survey in Beijing, China. Based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses, six Botryosphaeriales species were identified, including two new species named Dothiorella hortiarborum sp. nov. and Phaeobotryon fraxini sp. nov., and four new host records: Aplosporella ginkgonis from Cotinus coggygria var. cinereus, A. javeedii from Acer miyabei, Acer truncatum, Forsythia suspensa, Lagerstroemia indica, Sambucus williamsii, Syringa vulgaris, Ulmus pumila, Xanthoceras sorbifolium, A. yanqingensis from Acer truncatum, and Do. acericola from Forsythia suspensa, Ginkgo biloba, and Syringa oblata. This study enriches the species diversity associated with tree dieback in Beijing, China, and contributes to the further study of the taxonomy of this order.
["Dothiorella"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Pezizomycotina species associated with rotten plant materials in Guizhou Province, China
Nine Pezizomycotina strains were isolated from rotten dead branches and leaves collected from Guizhou Province. To obtain their accurate taxonomic placement, we provided the morphological characteristics of conidiophore cells and conidia. Phylogenetic relationships, based on ITS, rpb2, SSU, LSU and tub2 gene sequences, confirmed our strains represented three novel species, Peglionia falcata, Neoascochyta pseudofusiformis and Neomicrosphaeropsis cylindrica. Peglionia falcata produced falcate conidia and Neoa. pseudofusiformis generated fusiform conidia, while Neom. cylindrica possessed cylindrical conidia. The phylogenetic results also supported them as novel taxa. All the new species in the present study were found as saprophytic on forest litter with high rainfall, which suggest they may have a certain effect on nutrient decomposition and redistribution in forest ecosystems. Thus, it opened a way for further research on related ecological roles and their application production.

Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses revealed four new wood inhabiting fungi (Agaricomycetes, Basidiomycota) in Xizang Autonomous Region, China
Four new fungi from Xizang in southwest China, Calocera ramaria, Ceraceomyces rhizomorphus, Leptosporomyces linzhiensis, and Ramaria xizangensis are described and illustrated based on the morphological and molecular evidence. Calocera ramaria is characterized by the ramal and bright orange basidiomata, a monomitic hyphal system with simple septa generative hyphae, usually 4-septate basidiospores; Ceraceomyces rhizomorphus is characterized by the cream to yellowish basidiomata with rhizomorphs, cylindrical basidiospores; Leptosporomyces linzhiensis is characterized by white with pink basidiomata, cylindrical to oblong ellipsoid basidiospores; Ramaria xizangensis is characterized by flesh pink basidiomata, branched dichotomously in 4–5 ranks, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, ellipsoid to cylindrical and densely warted basidiospores.
["Molecular systematic"]

Three novel woody litter inhabiting fungi in Didymosphaeriaceae, Phaeoseptaceae and Synnemasporellaceae from Zhujiangyuan Nature Reserve, Yunnan Province, P.R. China
Zhujiangyuan Nature Reserve, located in Qujing City, Yunnan Province, China, is reported with high fauna and floral diversity, while the fungal diversity of the region is poorly documented. During the summer season in 2023, decaying wood-inhabiting microfungi were collected from different microhabitats. The novel species were identified based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses (based on combined datasets of ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 regions). Two species belong to Dothideomycetes (viz., Spegazzinia zhujiangyuanensis sp. nov. and Phaeoseptum zhujiangyuanense sp. nov. in Pleosporales) while the other one resides in Sordariomycetes (Synnemasporella fanii sp. nov. in Diaporthales). The results are in conformity with the earlier studies that predicted higher fungal diversity in this region.
["Morpho-molecular"]

Multi-gene phylogenetic analyses revealed two novel species and one new record of Trichobotrys (Pleosporales, Dictyosporiaceae) from China
The rotting wood in freshwater is a unique eco-environment favoring various fungi. During our investigation of freshwater fungi on decaying wood, three hyphomycetes were collected from Jiangxi and Guangxi Provinces, China. Based on the morphological observations and phylogenetic analysis of a combined DNA data containing ITS, LSU, SSU and tef1-α sequences, two new Trichobotrys species, T. meilingensis and T. yunjushanensis, as well as a new record of T. effusa, were introduced. Additionally, a comprehensive description of the genus with both morphological and molecular data was first provided.
["Freshwater hyphomycetes"]

Morphological and molecular data reveal Cerrena caulinicystidiata sp. nov. and Polyporus minutissimus sp. nov. in Polyporales from Asia
Two new species of Polyporales, Cerrena caulinicystidiata and Polyporus minutissimus, are illustrated and described on the basis of morphological studies and phylogenetic analyses from southern China and Vietnam. C. caulinicystidiata is characterized by annual, resupinate, sometimes effused-reflexed basidiocarps, greyish orange to brownish orange pore surface, irregular pores (3–8 per mm), a trimitic hyphal system, pyriform to ventricose cystidia, and subglobose basidiospores 3.2–4.5 × 2.8–3.5 µm in size. P. minutissimus is characterized by annual, solitary, fan-shaped with a depressed center or infundibuliform basidiocarps, obvious black stipe, cream to buff yellow pileal surface with glabrous, occasionally zonate and radially aligned stripes, angular pores (6–9 per mm), a dimitic hyphal system, and cylindrical basidiospores, 5–9.2 × 2.2–4 μm. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the two new species are provided. The differences between the two new species and their morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species are discussed.
["Cerrenaceae"]

Two novel species and a new host record of Alternaria (Pleosporales, Pleosporaceae) from sunflower (Compositae) in Myanmar
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is a widely cultivated, fast-growing crop known for its seeds and oil, with substantial ecological and economic importance globally. However, it faces challenges from leaf diseases caused by Alternaria species, which threaten its yield. Three small-spored Alternaria species were isolated from leaf spot and blight symptoms on sunflower in Myanmar. All the species were determined based on morphological characterization and a multi-locus phylogenetic assessment of seven genes, including the internal transcribed spacer of rDNA region (ITS), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), RNA polymerase second largest subunit (RPB2), translation elongation factor 1-α (TEF1), Alternaria major allergen gene (Alt a 1), endopolygalacturonase gene (EndoPG), and an anonymous gene region (OPA10-2). The results introduced two new Alternaria species, A. myanmarensis sp. nov. and A. yamethinensis sp. nov., and a known species of A. burnsii, firstly reported from sunflower.
["Alternaria"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Plant Pathogen Control", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Three new species of Neohelicomyces (Tubeufiales, Tubeufiaceae) from freshwater and terrestrial habitats in China
Neohelicomyces species are a group of helicosporous hyphomycetes with the potential to produce secondary metabolites. During our investigation of helicosporous fungi, six collections were isolated from both terrestrial and freshwater habitats in Guizhou Province, China. Based on multigene phylogenetic analysis (ITS, LSU, tef1α and rpb2), coupled with morphological data, three new Neohelicomyces species, viz. N. guizhouensis, N. helicosporus and N. hydei were established. A list of accepted Neohelicomyces species with molecular data was provided. The strain of Neohelicomyces pallidus (UAMH 10535) was synonymised under N. denticulatus based on molecular data.
["Asexual morphs"]

Three new endophytic Apiospora species (Apiosporaceae, Amphisphaeriales) from China
Apiospora species are widely distributed fungi with diverse lifestyles, primarily functioning as plant pathogens, as well as exhibiting saprophytic and endophytic behaviors. This study reports the discovery of three new species of Apiospora, namely A. gongcheniae, A. paragongcheniae, and A. neogongcheniae, isolated from healthy Poaceae plants in China. These novel species were identified through a multi-gene phylogenetic analysis. The phylogenetic analysis of the combined ITS, LSU, tef1, and tub2 sequence data revealed that the three new species formed a robustly supported clade with A. garethjonesii, A. neogarethjonesii, A. setostroma, A. subrosea, A. mytilomorpha, and A. neobambusae. Detailed descriptions of the newly discovered species are provided and compared with closely related species to enhance our understanding of the genus Apiospora.
["Apiospora"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of Panus (Polyporales, Panaceae) in China and its relationship with allies
Panus is a typical wood-rotting fungi, which plays considerable roles in ecosystems and has significant economic value. The genus Panus currently consists of more than 100 species; however, only eight species have been reported from China. This study aims to distinguish and describe two novel species from the Panus similis complex, namely Panus minisporus and Panus baishanzuensis, one new record species from Zhejiang Province, Panus similis and three common species, Panus conchatus, Panus neostrigosus and Panus rudis, based on detailed morphological and phylogenetic studies, relying on Chinese specimens. Panus minisporus is characterised by its reddish-brown pileus, decurrent lamellae with cross-veins, slender stipe, smaller basidiospores, wider generative hyphae and absence of sclerocystidia. Panus baishanzuensis is featured by its pileus with concentric and darker ring zone, decurrent lamellae with cross-veins, shorter stipe, longer basidiospores, diverse and shorter cheilocystidia and smaller sclerocystidia. Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, large subunit nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (nLSU) and translation elongation factor 1-α gene (tef-1α) were employed to perform a thorough phylogenetic analysis for genus Panus and related genera, using Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood analysis. The results indicate that Panus minisporus and Panus baishanzuensis form two independent clades within the Panus similis complex themselves. Detailed descriptions, taxonomic notes, illustrations etc. were provided. In addition, a key to the reported species of Panus from China is also provided.
["Hyphal system"]

Didymellaceae species associated with tea plant (Camellia sinensis) in China
Tea plant is one of the most important commercial crops worldwide. The Didymellaceae fungi can cause leaf blight disease of tea plant. In this study, 240 isolates were isolated from tea plant leaves of 10 provinces in China. Combined with multi-locus (ITS, LSU, RPB2 and TUB2) phylogenetic analysis and morphological characteristics, these isolates were identified as 25 species of six genera in Didymellaceae, including 19 known species Didymella coffeae-arabicae, D. pomorum, D. segeticola, D. sinensis, Epicoccum catenisporum, E. dendrobii, E. draconis, E. italicum, E. latusicollum, E. mackenziei, E. oryzae, E. poaceicola, E. rosae, E. sorghinum, E. tobaicum, Neoascochyta mortariensis, Paraboeremia litseae, Remotididymella anemophila and Stagonosporopsis caricae, of which 15 species were new record species and six novel species, named D. yunnanensis, E. anhuiense, E. jingdongense, E. puerense, N. yunnanensis and N. zhejiangensis. Amongst all isolates, D. segeticola was the most dominant species. Pathogenicity tests on tea plant leaves showed that E. anhuiense had the strongest virulence, while E. puerense had the weakest virulence. Besides, D. pomorum, D. yunnanensis, E. dendrobii, E. italicum, E. jingdongense, E. mackenziei, E. oryzae, E. rosae, E. tobaicum, N. mortariensis, N. yunnanensis, N. zhejiangensis and R. anemophila were non-pathogenic to the tea plant.
["Camellia inhibiting fungi"]

Unveiling species diversity within the family Conidiobolaceae (Entomophthorales) in China: Descriptions of two new species and reassessment of the taxonomic position of Conidiobolus polyspermus
In the present study, two new Conidiobolus s.s. species were described relying on the morphological studies and phylogenetic analysis utilizing nuclear large subunit of rDNA (nucLSU), mitochondrial small subunit of rDNA (mtSSU), and elongation-factor-like gene (EFL) sequences. Conidiobolus jiangxiensis sp. nov. is distinguished by its short primary conidiophores, a feature not commonly observed in other Conidiobolus s.s. species. Conversely, Conidiobolus marcoconidius sp. nov. is characterized by larger primary conidia and the emergence of 2–5 secondary conidia from each branched secondary conidiophores. Additionally, the taxonomic reassessment of C. polyspermus confirms its distinct status within the genus Conidiobolus s.s. Moreover, molecular analyses, incorporating the nucLSU, mtSSU, and EFL sequences, provide robust support for the phylogenetic placement of the two newly described species and the taxonomic identity of C. polyspermus. This investigation contributes valuable insights into the species diversity of Conidiobolaceae in China, enhancing our understanding of the taxonomy within this fungal family.
["Basal fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Infectious Diseases and Mycology"]

Morphology and phylogeny of four new species within Polycephalomycetaceae (Hypocreales) parasitising Ophiocordyceps species
Species of the family Polycephalomycetaceae grow on insects or entomopathogenic fungi and are distributed from tropical to subtropical regions. This study proposed four new species of hyperparasitic fungi from China based on six molecular markers (ITS, SSU, LSU, TEF-1α, RPB1 and RPB2) phylogenetic analyses and morphological characteristics. The four new species, i.e. Pleurocordyceps litangensis, Polycephalomyces jinghongensis, Po. multiperitheciatae and Po. myrmecophilus, were described and illustrated. Pl. litangensis, exhibiting a hyperparasitic lifestyle on Ophiocordyceps sinensis, differed from Pleurocordyceps other species in producing subulate β-phialides and ovoid or elliptic α-conidia. Po. jinghongensis was distinct from Polycephalomyces other species, being parasitic on Ophiocordyceps sp., as producing oval or long oval-shaped α-conidia and columns of β-conidia. Po. multiperitheciatae differed from Polycephalomyces other species as having synnemata with fertile head, linear β-conidia and parasitic on Ophiocordyceps multiperitheciata. Po. myrmecophilus was distinct from Polycephalomyces other species, being parasitic on the fungus Ophiocordyceps acroasca, as producing round or ovoid α-conidia and elliptical β-conidia without synnemata from the colonies. These four species were clearly distinguished from other species in the family Polycephalomycetaceae by phylogenetic and morphological characteristics. The morphological features were discussed and compared to relevant species in the present paper.
["entomogenous fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Morphological and molecular identification for four new wood-inhabiting species of Trechispora (Basidiomycota) from China
Four new wood-inhabiting fungi, Trechispora albofarinosa, T. bisterigmata, T. pileata and T. wenshanensis spp. nov., are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Trechispora albofarinosa is characterized by the farinose basidiomata with flocculence hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and ellipsoid, warted basidiospores. Trechispora bisterigmata is characterized by the membranous basidiomata with odontioid hymenial surface, rhizomorphic sterile margin, barrelled basidia and subglobose to broad ellipsoid, smooth basidiospores. Trechispora pileata is characterized by the laterally contracted base, solitary or imbricate basidiomata, fan shaped pileus, radially striate-covered surface with appressed scales, odontioid hymenophore surface, and subglobose to broad ellipsoid, thin-walled, smooth basidiospores. Trechispora wenshanensis is characterized by a cottony basidiomata with a smooth hymenial surface, and ellipsoid, thin-walled, warted basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and LSU marker of the studied samples were generated, and phylogenetic analyses were performed with the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS+nLSU sequences highlighted that four new species were grouped into the genus Trechispora.

Additional new species and new records of the genus Sticta (lichenised Ascomycota, lobarioid Peltigeraceae) from Bolivia
Four species of the genus Sticta are described as new from Bolivia, based on morphological examination and phylogenetic analysis of the fungal ITS barcoding marker. Additionally, two species are reported as new to Bolivia (their identification confirmed by molecular data) and one previously reported species is confirmed by molecular data for the first time. Detailed morphological and anatomical descriptions are provided for all new species. Two of the new species, S. isidiolobulata Ossowska, B. Moncada, Lücking & Kukwa and S. madidiensis Ossowska, B. Moncada, Lücking & Kukwa belong to clade I, as defined in previous studies. In contrast, S. montepunkuensis Ossowska, B. Moncada, Lücking & Kukwa and S. macrolobata Ossowska, B. Moncada, Lücking & Kukwa, also described here as new to science, belong to clade III. Sticta isidiolobulata has an irregular to suborbicular thallus of medium size, with isidia developing into spathulate lobules, cyanobacterial photobiont and apothecia with entire to weakly-crenate margins. The large irregular thallus of the cyanobacteria-associated S. macrolobata has broad lobes, apothecia with verrucous to tomentose margins and cyphellae with raised margins, whereas S. madidiensis has a medium-sized, palmate to irregular thallus with a stipe, but without vegetative propagules and apothecia. Sticta montepunkuensis has large and irregular thalli with green algae as photobiont, apothecia with crenate to verrucous margins and urceolate cyphellae with a wide pore and a scabrid basal membrane. Two species, S. beauvoisii Delise and S. riparia Merc.-Díaz are reported as new to Bolivia (the latter also as new to South America) and belong to clade III. Sticta tomentosa (Sw.) Ach., species confirmed from Bolivia by molecular data, belongs to clade II. Sticta beauvoisii is characterised by a smooth yellowish-brown upper surface with darker apices and abundant, marginal isidia and a brown lower surface with golden-chocolate brown primary tomentum and sparse, golden-brown rhizines. Sticta riparia has a strongly branched thallus, with undulate lobes and abundant, marginal, palmate, grey to dark brown phyllidia and greyish-brown lower surface with the primary tomentum absent towards the margins. Sticta tomentosa has palmate, bluish thalli with white cilia and abundant, submarginal apothecia and creamy-white lower surface with a sparse, white primary tomentum.

Paramphibambusa bambusicola gen. et. sp. nov., Arecophila xishuangbannaensis and A. zhaotongensis spp. nov. in Cainiaceae from Yunnan, China
Morphological comparisons and multi locus phylogenetic analyses (base on the combined genes of ITS, LSU, rpb2 and tub) demonstrated that three new saprobic taxa isolated from bamboo belong to Cainiaceae. These taxa comprise a novel genus Paramphibambusa (P. bambusicola sp. nov.) and two new species, Arecophila xishuangbannaensis and A. zhaotongensis. The three new taxa belong to Cainiaceae (Xylariales, Sordariomycetes) a poorly studied family, which now comprises eight genera. Paramphibambusa can be distinguished from other Cainiaceae genera in having ascomata with a neck and ascospores lacking longitudinal striation, germ slits or germ pores. The two new Arecophila species clustered in a clade with Arecophila sp. and A. bambusae. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, and an updated phylogenetic tree are provided for the new taxa.
["Bambusicolous fungi"]

New species, new records and common species of Pluteus sect. Celluloderma from northern China
Wood-rotting fungi are organisms that can decompose wood substrates and extract nutrients from them to support their growth. They play a crucial role in the material cycle of forest ecosystems. The genus Pluteus plays a significant role in wood decomposition. In this study, the morphology and molecular systematics of the sect. Celluloderma of the genus Pluteus were carried out. Pluteus brunneodiscus was identified as a new species, along with the discovery of two new records, P. cystidiosus and P. chrysophlebius, and a common species, P. romellii. Pluteus brunneodiscus is characterized by the brown center of the pileus that transitions to white towards the margins, with the surface cracking to form irregular granules. It is typically found in Populus forests growing on decomposing twigs or wood chips. Line drawings, color photographs, and phylogenetic analyses of related species within the genus Pluteus accompany the descriptions of these four species. The analyses are based on ITS + TEF1-α sequence data. Finally, a key for the twenty species within the sect. Celluloderma of the genus Pluteus, which has been documented in China, is provided.
["Line drawings"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Exploring ascomycete diversity in Yunnan II: Introducing three novel species in the suborder Massarineae (Dothideomycetes, Pleosporales) from fern and grasses
This article presents the results of an ongoing inventory of Ascomycota in Yunnan, China, carried out as part of the research project series “Exploring ascomycete diversity in Yunnan”. From over 100 samples collected from diverse host substrates, microfungi have been isolated, identified and are currently being documented. The primary objective of this research is to promote the discovery of novel taxa and explore the ascomycete diversity in the region, utilising a morphology-phylogeny approach. This article represents the second series of species descriptions for the project and introduces three undocumented species found in the families Bambusicolaceae, Dictyosporiaceae and Periconiaceae, belonging to the suborder Massarineae (Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes). These novel taxa exhibit typical morphological characteristics of Bambusicola, Periconia and Trichobotrys, leading to their designation as Bambusicola hongheensis, Periconia kunmingensis and Trichobotrys sinensis. Comprehensive multigene phylogenetic analyses were conducted to validate the novelty of these species. The results revealed well-defined clades that are clearly distinct from other related species, providing robust support for their placement within their respective families. Notably, this study unveils the phylogenetic affinity of Trichobotrys within Dictyosporiaceae for the first time. Additionally, the synanamorphism for the genus Trichobotrys is also reported for the first time. Detailed descriptions, illustrations and updated phylogenies of the novel species are provided, and thus presenting a valuable resource for researchers and mycologists interested in the diversity of ascomycetes in Yunnan. By enhancing our understanding of the Ascomycota diversity in this region, this research contributes to the broader field of fungal taxonomy and their phylogenetic understanding.

Systematic revision of species of Atractilina and Spiropes hyperparasitic on Meliolales (Ascomycota) in the tropics
Atractilina Dearn. & Barthol. and Spiropes Cif. are genera of asexual fungi that comprise species mainly hyperparasitic on black mildews (Meliolales, Ascomycota). Although a common group of anamorphic fungi, they have been described up to now only by morphology and their systematic position is unknown. The present study provides a morphological treatise of all known species of Atractilina and Spiropes hyperparasitic on Meliolales, including insights into their systematic position, based on DNA sequences generated here for the first time. The study was conducted, based on 33 herbarium specimens and 23 specimens recently collected in Benin and Panama. The obtained DNA sequence data (28S rDNA and ITS rDNA) of A. parasitica and of two species of Spiropes show systematic placements in the Dothideomycetes and Leotiomycetes, respectively. The sequence data of the two Spiropes spp. do not group together. Moreover, the anamorph-teleomorph connection between Atractilina parasitica and Malacaria meliolicola, a pseudothecioid fungus, is confirmed. Three species in the genus Spiropes are proposed as new to science, namely S. angylocalycis, S. carpolobiae and S. croissantiformis. Four species are reported for Benin for the first time, three species for Panama and one species for mainland America. Atractilina and Spiropes are currently two genera with highly heterogeneous species and they might have to be split in the future, once the taxonomic concepts are validated by morphology and molecular sequence data.
["Anamorph-teleomorph connection"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Rostrupomyces, a new genus to accommodate Xerocomus sisongkhramensis, and a new Hemileccinum species (Xerocomoideae, Boletaceae) from Thailand
A new genus, Rostrupomyces is established to accommodate Xerocomus sisongkhramensis based on multiple protein-coding genes (atp6, cox3, tef1, and rpb2) analyses of a wide taxon sampling of Boletaceae. In our phylogeny, the new genus was sister to Rubinosporus in subfamily Xerocomoideae, phylogenetically distant from Xerocomus, which was highly supported as sister to Phylloporus in the same subfamily Xerocomoideae. Rostrupomyces is different from other genera in Boletaceae by the following combination of characters: rugulose to subrugulose pileus surface, white pores when young becoming pale yellow in age, subscabrous stipe surface scattered with granulose squamules, white basal mycelium, unchanging color in any parts, yellowish brown spore print, and broadly ellipsoid to ellipsoid, smooth basidiospores. In addition, Hemileccinum inferius, also from subfamily Xerocomoideae, is newly described. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of the new genus and new species are presented.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Species diversity and taxonomy of Vararia (Russulales, Basidiomycota) with descriptions of six species from Southwestern China
Vararia is a species-rich genus in the family Peniophoraceae and has been shown to be polyphyletic. In this study, sequences of ITS and LSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated and phylogenetic analyses were performed with the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. Seventeen lineages including six new species from China, i.e., V. fissurata, V. lincangensis, V. punctata, V. isabellina, V. sinensis, and V. yaoshanensis were recognized, in which V. fissurata is characterized by the brittle basidiomata with pruinose and cracking hymenophore having white to olivaceous buff hymenial surface, the clamped generative hyphae, presence of the two types gloeocystidia; V. lincangensis is characterized by the simple-septa generative hyphae, and thick-walled skeletal hyphae, and ellipsoid basidiospores; V. punctata is delimited by its thin to slightly thick-walled generative hyphae, and thick-walled skeletal hyphae, present thick-walled, clavate to cylindrical gloeocystidia; V. isabellina is characterized by having the cream to isabelline to slightly brown hymenial surface, thin to slightly thick-walled generative hyphae, and sub-fusiform to navicular basidiospores; V. sinensis is distinguishable by its white to slightly pink hymenial surface, thick-walled skeletal hyphae, and sub-fusiform to navicular basidiospores; V. yaoshanensis is characterized by cream to pinkish buff to cinnamon-buff hymenial surface, slightly thick-walled generative hyphae, the presence of two types gloeocystidia, and slightly thick-walled, ellipsoid basidiospores. Phylogram based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions included nine genera within the family Peniophoraceae as Amylostereum, Asterostroma, Baltazaria, Dichostereum, Michenera, Peniophora, Scytinostroma and Vararia, in which the six new wood-inhabiting fungi species were grouped into genus Vararia. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the combined ITS and LSU tree sequences highlighted that V. fissurata was found to be the sister to V. ellipsospora with strong supports. Additionally, V. lincangensis was clustered with V. fragilis. Furthermore, V. punctata was retrieved as a sister to V. ambigua. Moreover, V. sinensis was grouped with five taxa as V. breviphysa, V. pirispora, V. fusispora, V. abortiphysa and V. insolita. The new species V. isabellina formed a monophyletic lineage, in which it was then grouped closely with V. daweishanensis, and V. gracilispora. In addition, V. yaoshanensis was found to be the sister to V. gallica with strong supports. The present results increased the knowledge of Vararia species diversity and taxonomy of corticioid fungi in China. An identification key to 17 species of Vararia in China is provided.

Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal two new entomopathogenic species of Ophiocordyceps (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) parasitic on termites from China
Two new termite-pathogenic species, Ophiocordyceps globiperitheciata and O. longistipes, are described from Yunnan Province, China. Six-locus (ITS, nrSSU, nrLSU, tef-1α, rpb1 and rpb2) phylogenetic analyses in combination with morphological observations were employed to characterize these two species. Phylogenetically, O. globiperitheciata is most closely related to Hirsutella cryptosclerotium and O. communis, whereas O. longistipes shares a sister relationship with O. fusiformis. However, O. globiperitheciata differs from H. cryptosclerotium by parasitizing Blattodea and producing clavate, unbifurcated stromata. Ophiocordyceps globiperitheciata is distinguished from O. communis by multiple stromata, shorter asci and ascospores. Ophiocordyceps longistipes differs from O. fusiformis in producing larger stromata, perithecia, asci and ascospores, as well as smaller citriform or oval conidia. Morphological descriptions of the two new species and a dichotomous key to the 19 termite-pathogenic Ophiocordyceps species are presented.
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Two new species of Sordariomycetes (Chaetomiaceae and Nectriaceae) from China
Rich and diverse fungal species occur in different habitats on the earth. Many new taxa are being reported and described in increasing numbers with the advent of molecular phylogenetics. However, there are still a number of unknown fungi that have not yet been discovered and described. During a survey of fungal diversity in different habitats in China, we identified and proposed two new species, based on the morphology and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses. Herein, we report the descriptions, illustrations and molecular phylogeny of the two new species, Bisifusarium keratinophilum sp. nov. and Ovatospora sinensis sp. nov.
["Fungal taxonomy"]

Two novel species of arctic-alpine lichen-forming fungi (Ascomycota, Megasporaceae) from the Deosai Plains, Pakistan
Members of the lichen-forming fungal genus Oxneriaria are known to occur in cold polar and high altitudinal environments. Two new species, Oxneriaria crittendenii and O. deosaiensis, are now described from the high altitude Deosai Plains, Pakistan, based on phenotypic, multigene phylogenetic and chemical evidence. Phenotypically, O. crittendenii is characterised by orbicular light-brown thalli 1.5–5 cm across, spot tests (K, C, KC) negative, apothecia pruinose, hymenium initially blue then dark orange in response to Lugol’s solution. Oxneriaria deosaiensis is characterised by irregular areolate grey thalli 1.5–2 cm across, K test (light brown), KC test (dark brown), apothecia epruinose, hymenium initially blue then dark blue in response to Lugol’s solution. Both species share the same characters of thalli with black margins and polarilocular ascospores. The closest previously reported species, O. pruinosa, differs from O. crittendenii and O. deosaiensis in having non-lobate margins, thin thalline exciple (45–80 μm thick), short asci (55–80 × 25–42 μm) and K positive (yellow) and KC negative tests and divergent DNA sequence in the ITS, LSU and mt SSU regions. The newly-described Oxneriaria species add to growing evidence of the Deosai Plains as a region of important arctic-alpine biodiversity.
["Aspicilia"]

Two new species and one new combination of Ophiocordyceps (Hypocreales, Ophiocordycipitaceae) in Guizhou
Ophiocordyceps is the largest genus in Ophiocordycipitaceae and has a broad distribution with high diversity in subtropical and tropical regions. In this study, two new species, pathogenic on lepidopteran larvae are introduced, based on morphological observation and molecular phylogeny. Ophiocordyceps fenggangensis sp. nov. is characterised by having fibrous, stalked stroma with a sterile tip, immersed perithecia, cylindrical asci and filiform ascospores disarticulating into secondary spores. Ophiocordyceps liangii sp. nov. has the characteristics of fibrous, brown, stipitate, filiform stroma, superficial perithecia, cylindrical asci and cylindrical-filiform, non-disarticulating ascospores. A new combination Ophiocordyceps musicaudata (syn. Cordyceps musicaudata) is established employing molecular analysis and morphological characteristics. Ophiocordyceps musicaudata is characterised by wiry, stipitate, solitary, paired to multiple stromata, yellowish, branched fertile part, brown stipe, immersed perithecia, cylindrical asci and cylindrical-filiform, non-disarticulating ascospores.
["Entomopathogenic fungi&gt"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Two new species of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) associated with Camellia oleifera leaf spot disease in Hainan Province, China
Tea-oil tree (Camellia oleifera Abel.) is an important edible oil woody plant with a planting area over 3,800,000 hectares in southern China. Species of Diaporthe inhabit a wide range of plant hosts as plant pathogens, endophytes and saprobes. Here, we conducted an extensive field survey in Hainan Province to identify and characterise Diaporthe species associated with tea-oil leaf spots. As a result, eight isolates of Diaporthe were obtained from symptomatic C. oleifera leaves. These isolates were studied, based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses of partial ITS, cal, his3, tef1 and tub2 gene regions. Two new Diaporthe species (D. hainanensis and D. pseudofoliicola) were proposed and described herein.
["DNA phylogeny"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Three novel species of Aquapteridospora (Distoseptisporales, Aquapteridosporaceae) from freshwater habitats in Tibetan Plateau, China
During an investigation of lignicolous freshwater fungi in the Tibetan Plateau, three Aquapteridospora taxa were collected from freshwater habitats in Xizang, China. The new species possess polyblastic, sympodial, denticles conidiogenous cells and fusiform, septate, with or without sheath conidial, that fit within the generic concept of Aquapteridospora, and multi-gene phylogeny placed these species within Aquapteridospora. Detailed morphological observations clearly demarcate three of these from extant species and are hence described as new taxa. The multi-gene phylogeny of the combined LSU, TEF1-α, and ITS sequence data to infer phylogenetic relationships and discuss phylogenetic affinities with morphologically similar species. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses, three new species viz. A. linzhiensis, A. yadongensis, and A. submersa are introduced. Details of asexual morphs are described, and justifications for establishing these new species are also provided in this study.

Three new Pyrenula species with 3-septate ascospores with red or orange oil when over-mature (Ascomycota, Pyrenulales, Pyrenulaceae) from China
The lichenised fungal genus Pyrenula is a very common crustose lichen element in tropical to subtropical forests, but little research has been done on this genus in China. During our study on Pyrenula in China, based on morphological characteristics, chemical traits and molecular phylogenetic analysis (ITS and nuLSU), three new 3-septate species with red or orange oil in over-mature ascospores were found: Pyrenula inspersa sp. nov., P. thailandicoides sp. nov. and P. apiculata sp. nov. Compared to the known 3-septate species of Pyrenula with red or orange oil, P. inspersa is characterised by the inspersed hamathecium; P. thailandicoides is characterised by the IKI+ red hamathecium and the existence of an unknown lichen substance; and P. apiculata is characterised by the absence of endospore layers in the spore tips and the absence of pseudocyphellae. It is reported for the first time that the presence of a gelatinous halo around the ascospores of Pyrenula is common. A word key for the Pyrenula species with red or orange oil in over-mature ascospores is provided.

New species of Tropicoporus (Basidiomycota, Hymenochaetales, Hymenochaetaceae) from India, with a key to Afro-Asian Tropicoporus species
The Inonotus linteus complex, predominantly reported from East Asia, Mesoamerica and Caribbean countries, was circumscribed into Tropicoporus as one of the new genera, based on morphological and phylogenetic data. The present paper describes four new species of Tropicoporus from India. Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses, based on ITS and nLSU data, delimited the new species, which are named T. cleistanthicola, T. indicus, T. pseudoindicus and T. tamilnaduensis. The pairwise homoplasy index (PHI) test was done to confirm the distinctive nature of the new species. The traits of Indian species remain distinct from one another, except for the pileate basidiome with the mono-dimitic hyphal system, cystidioles and broadly ellipsoid basidiospores. Descriptions, illustrations, PHI test results and a phylogenetic tree to show the position of the new species are provided. In addition, an identification key to Tropicoporus in Asia and an African species is given.

Diversity of Distoseptispora (Distoseptisporaceae) taxa on submerged decaying wood from the Red River in Yunnan, China
The Red River Basin is located in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot and is rich in lignicolous freshwater fungi, but no systematic research has been conducted. A systematic study on the species diversity of lignicolous freshwater fungi in the basin is ongoing. Seven distoseptispora-like specimens were collected from the Red River Basin in Yunnan. Phylogenetic analysis of ITS, LSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 genes and combined morphological data indicate that there are six distinct species of Distoseptispora, including two new species and four known species. Two new species were named D. suae and D. xinpingensis, and the four known species were D. bambusae, D. euseptata, D. obpyriformis and D. pachyconidia. This study provides detailed descriptions and illustrations of these six species and an updated phylogenetic backbone tree of Distoseptispora.

Three new Dioszegia species (Bulleribasidiaceae, Tremellales) discovered in the phylloplane in China
The genus Dioszegia is comprised of anamorphic basidiomycetous yeasts and is classified in the family Bulleribasidiaceae of the order Tremellales. Currently, 24 species have been described and accepted as members of the genus, although its diversity and global distribution have not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, yeasts were isolated from plant leaves collected in the Guizhou and Henan Provinces of China and identified through a combination of morphological and molecular methods. Phylogenetic analyses of the combined ITS and LSU sequences coupled with morphological studies revealed three novel species, D. guizhouensis sp. nov., D. foliicola sp. nov., and D. aurantia sp. nov., proposed here. Additionally, our phylogenetic analyses suggest that the recently discovered species D. terrae is a synonym of D. maotaiensis. This study presents detailed descriptions and illustrations of three new Dioszegia species and highlights distinctions between them and their close relatives. The findings of this study contribute to our knowledge of the biodiversity of Dioszegia, offering a foundation for future research.
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Two novel freshwater hyphomycetes, in Acrogenospora (Minutisphaerales, Dothideomycetes) and Conioscypha (Conioscyphales, Sordariomycetes) from Southwestern China
Freshwater fungi are highly diverse in China and frequently reported from submerged wood, freshwater insects, herbaceous substrates, sediments, leaves, foams, and living plants. In this study, we investigated two freshwater species that were collected from Yunnan and Guizhou provinces in China. Detailed morphological analysis complemented by multi-gene phylogenetic analyses based on LSU, SSU, ITS, RPB2 and TEF1-α sequences data revealed them to be two new saprobic species, namely Acrogenospora alangii sp. nov. and Conioscypha yunnanensis sp. nov. in their asexual morphs. Additionally, Acrogenospora alangii sp. nov. is reported for the first time as a freshwater ascomycete associated with the medicinal plant Alangium chinense (Alangiaceae). Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations and updated phylogenetic relationships of the new taxa are provided herein.
["Acrogenosporaceae"]

﻿Two new species of Rhizoplaca (Lecanoraceae) from Southwest China
In this study, two new species, Rhizoplaca adpressa Y. Y. Zhang & Li S. Wang and R. auriculata Y. Y. Zhang, Li S. Wang & Printzen, are described from Southwest China, based on their morphology, phylogeny and chemistry. In phylogeny, the two new species are monophyletic, and sister to each other within Rhizoplaca chrysoleuca-complex. Rhizoplaca adpressa is characterized by its placodioid and closely adnate thallus, pale green and heavily pruinose upper surface, narrow (ca. 1 mm) and white free margin on the lower surface of marginal squamules, the absence of a lower cortex, and its basally non-constricted apothecia with orange discs that turn reddish-brown at maturity. Rhizoplaca auriculata is characterized by its squamulose to placodioid thallus, yellowish green and marginally pruinose squamules, wide (1−3 mm) and bluish-black free margin on the lower surface of marginal squamules, the absence of a lower cortex, and its basally constricted apothecia with persistently orange discs. Rhizoplaca adpressa and R. auriculata share the same secondary metabolites of usnic and placodiolic acids.
["new taxa"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Taxonomic novelties and global biogeography of Montagnula (Ascomycota, Didymosphaeriaceae)
Whilst conducting surveys of lignicolous microfungi in Yunnan Province, we collected a large number of taxa that resemble Montagnula (Didymosphaeriaceae, Pleosporales). Our phylogenetic study on Montagnula involved analysing sequence data from ribosomal RNA genes (nc18S, nc28S, ITS) and protein-coding genes (rpb2, tef1-α). We present a biphasic approach (morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence) that supports the recognition of four new species in Montagnula viz., M. lijiangensis, M. menglaensis, M. shangrilana and M. thevetiae. The global diversity of Montagnula is also inferred from metabarcoding data and published records based on field observations. Metabarcoding data from GlobalFungi and field observations provided insights into the global diversity and distribution patterns of Montagnula. Studies conducted in Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America revealed a concentration of Montagnula species, suggesting regional variations in ecological preferences and distribution. Montagnula species were found on various substrates, with sediments yielding a high number of sequences. Poaceae emerged as a significant contributor, indicating a potential association between Montagnula species and grasses. Culture-based investigations from previously published data revealed Montagnula species associations with 105 plant genera (in 45 plant families), across 55 countries, highlighting their wide ecological range and adaptability. This study enhances our understanding of the taxonomy, distribution, and ecological preferences of Montagnula species. It emphasizes their role in the decomposition of organic matter in grasslands and savannah systems and suggests further investigation into their functional roles in ecosystem processes. The global distribution patterns and ecological interactions of Montagnula species underscore the need for continued research and conservation efforts.
["Global distribution"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Multigene phylogeny and morphology reveal three new species of Cytospora isolated from diseased plant branches in Fengtai District, Beijing, China
Members of Cytospora include saprobes, endophytes and important plant pathogens, which are widely distributed on various wood hosts and have a wide global distribution. In this study, the species definitions were conducted, based on multigene phylogeny (ITS, act, rpb2, tef1-α and tub2 genes) and comparisons of morphological characters. A total of 22 representative isolates obtained from 21 specimens in Fengtai District of Beijing City were identified as seven species of Cytospora, including four known species (C. albodisca, C. ailanthicola, C. euonymina, C. haidianensis) and three novel species (C. fengtaiensis, C. pinea, C. sorbariae). The results provide an understanding of the taxonomy of Cytospora species associated with canker and dieback diseases in Fengtai District, Beijing, China.
["Canker disease"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

﻿Three new species of Cortinarius section Delibuti (Cortinariaceae, Agaricales) from China
Three new species of Cortinarius section Delibuti, namely C. fibrillososalor, C. pseudosalor, and C. subtropicus are described as new to science based on morphological and phylogenetic evidences. Cortinarius pseudosalor is extremely morphologically similar to C. salor, but it differs from the latter by smaller coarsely verrucose basidiospores. Cortinarius fibrillososalor can be easily differentiated by its fibrillose pileus. The pileus of C. subtropicus becomes brown without lilac tint at maturity comparing with other members of section Delibuti. A combined dataset of ITS and LSU sequences was used for phylogenetic analysis. The phylogenetic reconstruction of section Delibuti revealed that these three new species clustered and formed independent lineages with full support respectively. A key to the three new species and related species of section Delibuti is provided in this work.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Species diversity and major host/substrate associations of the genus Akanthomyces (Hypocreales, Cordycipitaceae)
Akanthomyces, a group of fungi with rich morphological and ecological diversity in Cordycipitaceae (Ascomycota, Hypocreales), has a wide distribution amongst diverse habitats. By surveying arthropod-pathogenic fungi in China and Southeast Asia over the last six years, nine Akanthomyces spp. were found and identified. Five of these were shown to represent four known species and an undetermined species of Akanthomyces. Four of these were new species and they were named A. kunmingensis and A. subaraneicola from China, A. laosensis from Laos and A. pseudonoctuidarum from Thailand. The new species were described and illustrated according to the morphological characteristics and molecular data. Akanthomyces araneogenus, which was isolated from spiders from different regions in China, Thailand and Vietnam, was described as a newly-recorded species from Thailand and Vietnam. The phylogenetic positions of the nine species were evaluated, based on phylogenetic inferences according to five loci, namely, ITS, nrLSU, TEF, RPB1 and RPB2. In this study, we reviewed the research progress achieved for Akanthomyces regarding its taxonomy, species diversity, geographic distribution and major host/substrate associations. The morphological characteristics of 35 species in Akanthomyces, including four novel species and 31 known taxa, were also compared.
["Arthropod-pathogenic fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

﻿Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic evidence reveal two new species and the first report of Comoclathris (Pleosporaceae, Pleosporales) on dicotyledonous plants from China
Two novel Comoclathris species were identified from dicotyledonous plants (Clematis sp. and Xanthoceras sorbifolium) in China. The results were supported by morphological characters and Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Bayesian Inference (BI) analyses. Multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of the ITS, LSU, SSU and rpb2 sequences revealed two new species Comoclathris clematidis and C. xanthoceratis, which are phylogenetically distinct. The new species are phylogenetically closely related to C. arrhenatheri. However, they are distinguishable from C. arrhenatheri by having comparatively larger asci and ascospores. This study improves our knowledge of Comoclathris as no species has been previously described from China. This suggests such taxa may be rare and it is likely that new taxa will be discovered from hosts and environments that have not yet been extensively investigated.

﻿Two new phyllospheric species of Colacogloea (Colacogloeaceae, Pucciniomycotina) identified in China
During our ongoing survey of basidiomycetous yeasts associated with plant leaves in virgin forest, five Colacogloea strains were isolated in the Baotianman Nature Reserve, Henan Province, central China. Phenotypes from cultures and a phylogeny based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions and the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene were employed to characterize and identify these isolates. As a result, two new species, namely Colacogloea celtidis sp. nov. and C. pararetinophila sp. nov., are introduced herein. In the phylogeny of combined ITS and LSU dataset, the new species C. celtidis sp. nov. formed a clade with the unpublished Colacogloea strain (KBP: Y-6832), and together these formed the sister group to C. armeniacae, while C. pararetinophila sp. nov. was retrieved as a sister to C. retinophila. A detailed description and illustration of both new species, as well as the differences between them and their closest relatives in the genus are provided. Results from the present study will add to our knowledge of the biodiversity of Colacogloea in China.
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal three new species of Fusarium (Hypocreales, Nectriaceae) associated with leaf blight on Cunninghamia lanceolata in China
Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) is a special fast-growing commercial tree species in China with high economic value. In recent years, leaf blight disease on C. lanceolata has been observed frequently. The diversity of Fusarium species associated with leaf blight on C. lanceolata in China (Fujian, Guangxi, Guizhou, and Hunan provinces) was evaluated using morphological study and molecular multi-locus analyses based on RNA polymerase second largest subunit (RPB2), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF-1α), and RNA polymerase largest subunit (RPB1) genes/region as well as the pairwise homoplasy index tests. A total of five Fusarium species belonging to four Fusarium species complexes were recognized in this study. Two known species including Fusarium concentricum and F. fujikuroi belonged to the F. fujikuroi species complex, and three new Fusarium species were described, i.e., F. fujianense belonged to the F. lateritium species complex, F. guizhouense belonged to the F. sambucinum species complex, and F. hunanense belonged to the F. solani species complex. To prove Koch’s postulates, pathogenicity tests on C. lanceolata revealed a wide variation in pathogenicity and aggressiveness among the species, of which F. hunanense HN33-8-2 caused the most severe symptoms and F. fujianense LC14 led to the least severe symptoms. To our knowledge, this study also represented the first report of F. concentricum, F. fujianense, F. fujikuroi, F. guizhouense, and F. hunanense causing leaf blight on C. lanceolata in China.
["Cunninghamia lanceolata"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food"]

﻿Seven new species of Alternaria (Pleosporales, Pleosporaceae) associated with Chinese fir, based on morphological and molecular evidence
Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) is a special fast-growing commercial tree species in China and has significant ecological and economic value. However, it experienced damage from leaf blight caused by pathogenic fungi of the genus Alternaria. To determine the diversity of Alternaria species associated with leaf blight of Chinese fir in China, infected leaves were collected from five major cultivation provinces (Fujian, Henan, Hunan, Jiangsu and Shandong provinces). A total of 48 fungal strains of Alternaria were obtained. Comparison of morphology and phylogenetic analyses, based on nine loci (ITS, SSU, LSU, GAPDH, RPB2, TEF1, Alt a1, endoPG and OPA10-2) of the representative isolates as well as the pairwise homoplasy index tests, revealed that the fungal strains belonged to seven undescribed taxa of Alternaria, which are described here and named as Alternaria cunninghamiicola sp. nov., A. dongshanqiaoensis sp. nov., A. hunanensis sp. nov., A. kunyuensis sp. nov., А. longqiaoensis sp. nov., A. shandongensis sp. nov. and A. xinyangensis sp. nov. In order to prove Koch’s postulates, pathogenicity tests on detached Chinese fir leaves revealed significant pathogenicity amongst these species, of which A. hunanensis is the most pathogenic to Chinese fir. This study represents the first report of A. cunninghamiicola, A. dongshanqiaoensis, A. hunanensis, A. kunyuensis, A. longqiaoensis, A. shandongensis and A. xinyangensis causing leaf blight on Chinese fir. Knowledge obtained in this study enhanced our understanding of Alternaria species causing leaf blight on Chinese fir and was crucial for the disease management and the further studies in the future.
["Alternaria"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Plant Pathogen Control", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

﻿The phylogeny and taxonomy of Upretia (Caloplacoideae, Teloschistaceae), reveal three new species from Southwestern China
Several specimens of Upretia from Southwest China are morphologically and phylogenetically distinct from currently recognized species in the genus. These specimens are here accommodated within a new species, Upretia zeorina Li J. Li & Printzen. It is characterized by an areolate to squamulose thallus with brown to blackish brown upper surface, pruinose, zeorine type apothecia, black discs, narrowly bacilliform conidia, and the production of gyrophoric acid. Two other specimens of Upretia from China are distinct from currently accepted species and tentatively referred to as Upretia sp. 1 and Upretia sp. 2. A key to all known species of Upretia is also provided.
["Chemistry"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Taxonomic and phylogenetic characterisations of six species of Pleosporales (in Didymosphaeriaceae, Roussoellaceae and Nigrogranaceae) from China
Pleosporales comprise a diverse group of fungi with a global distribution and significant ecological importance. A survey on Pleosporales (in Didymosphaeriaceae, Roussoellaceae and Nigrogranaceae) in Guizhou Province, China, was conducted. Specimens were identified, based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses using a dataset composed of ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1 and rpb2 loci. Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Bayesian analyses were performed. As a result, three new species (Neokalmusia karka, Nigrograna schinifolium and N. trachycarpus) have been discovered, along with two new records for China (Roussoella neopustulans and R. doimaesalongensis) and a known species (Roussoella pseudohysterioides). Morphologically similar species and phylogenetically close taxa are compared and discussed. This study provides detailed information and descriptions of all newly-identified taxa.
["phylogeny"]

﻿Taxonomy and evolution history of two new litter-decomposing Ciliochorella (Amphisphaeriales, Sporocadaceae)
The genus Ciliochorella is a group of pestalotioid fungi, which typically occurs in subtropical and tropical areas. Species from the Ciliochorella genus play important roles in the decomposition of litter. In this study, we introduce two new species (Ciliochorella chinensis sp. nov. and C. savannica sp. nov.) that were found on leaf litter collected from savanna-like vegetation in hot dry valleys of southwestern China. Phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS and tub2 sequence datasets indicated that C. chinensis and C. savannica respectively form a distinct clade within the Ciliochorella genus. The comparison of the morphological characteristics indicated that the two new species are well differentiated within this genus species. Analysis of the evolutionary history suggests that Ciliochorella originated from the Eurasian continent during the Paleogene (38 Mya). Further, we find that both new species can produce cellulase and laccase, playing a decomposer role.
["Ancestral biogeography"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Enzyme-mediated dye degradation"]

﻿New species and new combinations in the genus Paraisaria (Hypocreales, Ophiocordycipitaceae) from the U.S.A., supported by polyphasic analysis
Molecular phylogenetic and chemical analyses, and morphological characterization of collections of North American Paraisaria specimens support the description of two new species and two new combinations for known species. P. cascadensis sp. nov. is a pathogen of Cyphoderris (Orthoptera) from the Pacific Northwest USA and P. pseudoheteropoda sp. nov. is a pathogen of cicadae (Hemiptera) from the Southeast USA. New combinations are made for Ophiocordyceps insignis and O. monticola based on morphological, ecological, and chemical study. A new cyclopeptide family proved indispensable in providing chemotaxonomic markers for resolving species in degraded herbarium specimens for which DNA sequencing is intractable. This approach enabled the critical linkage of a 142-year-old type specimen to a phylogenetic clade. The diversity of Paraisaria in North America and the utility of chemotaxonomy for the genus are discussed.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

﻿Taxonomy and phylogeny of the genus Ganoderma (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) in Costa Rica
Ganoderma species are well recognised by their significant role in the recycling of nutrients in ecosystems and by their production of secondary metabolites of medical and biotechnological importance. Ganoderma spp. are characterised by laccate and non-laccate, woody basidiocarps, polypore hymenophores and double-walled basidiospores generally with truncate apex. Despite the importance of this genus, its taxonomy is unclear and it includes several species’ complexes with few circumscribed species and incorrect geographic distributions. The aim of this work was to provide detailed morphological descriptions together with phylogenetic analyses using ITS sequences to confirm the presence of seven species of Ganoderma in Costa Rica: G. amazonense, G. applanatum s.l., G. australe, G. curtisii, G. ecuadorense, G. oerstedii and G. parvulum. This is the first study that integrates morphological and phylogenetic data of Ganoderma from Central America and a key of the neotropical species. Besides, the distribution range of G. curtisii, previously reported from North America and G. ecuadorense from South America, is expanded to Central America.

﻿New species of Hydnotrya (Ascomycota, Pezizomycetes) from southwestern China with notes on morphological characteristics of 17 species of Hydnotrya
More specimens of Hydnotrya have been collected from southwestern China in recent years. Morphological and molecular analyses showed that they belonged to three species of Hydnotrya, of which two are new to science, H. oblongispora and H. zayuensis. The third one was H. laojunshanensis, previously reported in 2013. The new species are described, and their relationship to other species of Hydnotrya is discussed. H. laojunshanensis is re-described in more detail. The main morphological characters of 17 species of Hydnotrya are compared and a key to them is provided as well.
["Discinaceae"]

﻿Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal three new species of Apiospora in China
Species of Apiospora are distributed worldwide as endophytes, pathogens and saprobes. In this study, we analysed Apiospora strains isolated from diseased leaves in Yunnan Province and dead culms in Shaanxi Province, China and we identified fungal species based on multi-locus phylogeny of ITS, LSU, tef1 and tub2 genes, along with the morphological characters, host and ecological distribution. Analyses revealed three new species, namely A. coryli sp. nov., A. lophatheri sp. nov. and A. oenotherae sp. nov. and one known species A. arundinis. Illustrations and descriptions of the four taxa are provided, along with comparisons with closely-related taxa in the genus.
["Apiosporaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Morphology, phylogeny and host specificity of two new Ophiocordyceps species belonging to the “zombie-ant fungi” clade (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales)
Species of the genus Ophiocordyceps, which include species able to manipulate the behaviour of ants, are known as the “zombie-ant fungi” and have attracted much attention over the last decade. They are widespread within tropical, subtropical and even temperate forests worldwide, with relatively few reports from subtropical monsoon evergreen broad-leaved forest. Fungal specimens have been collected from China, occurring on ants and producing hirsutella-like anamorphs. Based on a combination of morphological characters, phylogenetic analyses (LSU, SSU, TEF1a, RPB1 and RPB2) and ecological data, two new species, Ophiocordyceps tortuosa and O. ansiformis, are identified and proposed herein. Ophiocordyceps tortuosa and O. ansiformis are recorded on the same species of Colobopsis ant, based on phylogenetic analyses (COI), which may be sharing the same host. Ophiocordyceps tortuosa and O. ansiformis share the morphological character of producing lanceolate ascospores. They have typical characteristics distinguished from other species. The ascospore of O. tortuosa are tortuously arranged in the ascus and the ascospore of O. ansiformis have a structure like a handle-shape in the middle. Our molecular data also indicate that O. tortuosa and O. ansiformis are clearly distinct from other species.
["Colobopsis"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿Three new species of Trimmatothelopsis (Acarosporales, Acarosporaceae) from southwestern North America
The discovery and study of three new species of Trimmatothelopsis from Southwestern North America, T. californica, T. mexicana, and T. novomexicana, adds not only to the diversity of the genus and family but generated new insights into the occurrence of two ascus types in the genus and the variety of conidiogenous cells and conidia. Trimmatothelopsis now includes 15 species with a mainly Holarctic distribution (Asia, Europe, North America) and one species in Australia. A key is supplied to the genus. An overview of the genus Trimmatothelopsis is given, including differentiation from other genera of Acarosporaceae. The monotypic genus Thelocarpella is considered to be a synonym of Trimmatothelopsis. The new combination Trimmatothelopsis wirthii is proposed. The ascus type is shown to be variable in the genus with species with two types being intermixed with each other in our phylogeny.
["Ascus stains"]

﻿Phylogeny and species delimitations in the economically, medically, and ecologically important genus Samsoniella (Cordycipitaceae, Hypocreales)
Samsoniella is a ubiquitous genus of cosmopolitan arthropod-pathogenic fungi in the family Cordycipitaceae. The fungi have economic, medicinal, and ecological importance. Prior taxonomic studies of these fungi relied predominantly on phylogenetic inferences from five loci, namely, the nuclear ribosomal small and large subunits (nr SSU and nr LSU), the 3’ portion of translation elongation factor 1 alpha (3P_TEF), and RNA polymerase II subunits 1 and 2 (RPB1 and RPB2). Despite many new species being described, not all of the recognized species inside this group formed well-supported clades. Thus, the search for new markers appropriate for molecular phylogenetic analysis of Samsoniella remains a challenging problem. In our study, we selected the internal transcribed spacer regions of the rDNA (ITS rDNA) and seven gene regions, namely, 3P_TEF, the 5’ portion of translation elongation factor 1 alpha (5P_TEF), RPB1, RPB2, γ-actin (ACT), β-tubulin (TUB), and a gene encoding a minichromosome maintenance protein (MCM7), as candidate markers for species identification. Genetic divergence comparisons showed that the ITS, RPB2, ACT, and TUB sequences provided little valuable information with which to separate Samsoniella spp. In contrast, sequence data for 3P_TEF, 5P_TEF, RPB1, and MCM7 provided good resolution of Samsoniella species. The phylogenetic tree inferred from combined data (5P_TEF + 3P_TEF + RPB1 + MCM7) showed well-supported clades for Samsoniella and allowed for the delimitation of 26 species in this genus. The other two species (S. formicae and S. lepidopterorum) were not evaluated, as they had abundant missing data.
["Isaria-like fungi"]

﻿Two new species of Samsoniella (Cordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) from the Mayao River Valley, Guizhou, China
Samsoniella species have been often found in the forest habitat and rarely found in special karst eco-environments, such as Tiankeng, valleys and caves. In this research, eleven cordyceps specimens were collected from Mayao River Valley. A known species (S. haniana) and two new species (S. duyunensis and S. vallis) were established and described according to a multilocus phylogenetic analysis and morphological characteristics. Our results provide insight that the richness of Samsoniella species in karst eco-environments and further attention should be paid to entomopathogenic fungi in such habitats.

﻿Three coralloid species of the genus Trechispora (Trechisporales, Basidiomycota) in China: two newly discovered taxa and one reported for the first time
Two new species of Trechispora indigenous to southern China, T. laxa and T. tongdaoensis, are described and illustrated, and the first record of T. khokpasiensis in China is reported. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of the concatenated nuclear rDNA ITS1–5.8S–ITS2 and nuclear large subunit sequences supported the inclusion of the three species within the Trechispora clade, together with species formerly classified in Scytinopogon. The new species are similar in micromorphology to species of Trechispora (as traditionally circumscribed) but are distinguished by having coralloid basidiomata. A key to the known coralloid Trechispora species in China is provided.
["Coral fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal three new species and one new record of Tubeufia (Tubeufiales, Tubeufiaceae) from southern China
During an investigation of helicosporous fungi in China, a total of seven helicosporous hyphomycetes were obtained from decaying wood in the southern region of the country. Based on phylogenetic analyses using a combined LSU, ITS, tef1α, and rpb2 sequence matrix, in conjunction with morphological comparisons, these taxa were classified within Tubeufia (Tubeufiaceae, Tubeufiales) and were recognized as three new species, viz. Tubeufia guttulata, T. hainanensis, and T. muriformis, as well as one new distribution record, viz. T. cocois. Evidence for these new taxa and the new record, descriptions, illustrations, notes, and phylogenetic evidence are provided for the newly collected helicosporous species.
["asexual morph"]

﻿Two novel species and three new records of Torulaceae from Yunnan Province, China
While investigating the diversity of lignicolous fungi in Yunnan Province, China, six fresh collections of Torulaceae were collected and identified based on morphological examination and phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS, SSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 sequence data. Two new species, viz. Neopodoconis yunnanensis and Torula suae, and three new records, viz. T. canangae (new freshwater habitat record), T. masonii (new host record), and T. sundara (new freshwater habitat record) are reported. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree to show the placement of these species are provided.

﻿Phylogeny, morphology and chemistry reveal two new multispored species in the Lecanora subfusca group (Lecanoraceae, Ascomycota)
Two new multispored species from China, Lecanora anhuiensis Li J. Li & Printzen, sp. nov. and Lecanora pseudojaponica Li J. Li & Printzen, sp. nov. are described and illustrated here, based on morphological, chemical and molecular evidence. Lecanora anhuiensis is characterised by an epruinose, yellowish-brown to deep brown apothecial disc, an epihymenium with fine crystals, an amphithecium with small crystals, 16-spored asci and the presence of zeorin, in addition to atranorin. Lecanora pseudojaponica is characterised by an epruinose, red-brown apothecial disc, an epihymenium without crystals, an amphithecium with small crystals, 8 or 16- spored asci and the presence of zeorin and the stictic acid complex, in addition to atranorin. Phylogenetic reconstructions, based on mtSSU, nrITS and nrLSU suggest that these two species are members of the Lecanora subfusca group. They are compared with morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species, based on a nrITS dataset. Phylogenetic results show that the multispored taxa of Lecanora are polyphyletic. The number of ascospores per ascus appears to be a taxonomic character of minor importance. Detailed descriptions, discussions and figures for the two new species from China and a key for the multispored species of Lecanora worldwide are provided.
["Ascospores"]

﻿Roccellinastrum, Cenozosia and Heterodermia: Ecology and phylogeny of fog lichens and their photobionts from the coastal Atacama Desert
Some deserts on Earth such as the Namib or the Atacama are influenced by fog which can lead to the formation of local fog oases - unique environments hosting a great diversity of specialized plants and lichens. Lichens of the genera Ramalina, Niebla or Heterodermia have taxonomically been investigated from fog oases around the globe but not from the Atacama Desert, one of the oldest and driest deserts. Conditioned by its topography and the presence of orographic fog, the National Park Pan de Azúcar in the Atacama Desert is considered to be such a lichen hotspot. Applying multi-gen loci involving phylogenetic analyses combined with intense morphological and chemical characterization, we determined the taxonomic position of five of the most abundant epiphytic lichens of this area. We evaluated Roccellinastrum spongoideum and Heterodermia follmannii which were both described from the area but also finally showed that the genus Cenozosia is the endemic sister genus to Ramalina, Vermilacinia, Namibialina and Niebla. As a result, we have described the species Heterodermia adunca, C. cava and C. excorticata as new lichen species. This work provides a comprehensive dataset for common fog lichen genera of the Coastal Range of the Atacama Desert that can be used as a baseline for monitoring programs and environmental health assessments.
["Chlorolichens"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Study on species diversity of Akanthomyces (Cordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) in the Jinyun Mountains, Chongqing, China
Akanthomyces species have only been reported from Guizhou and Qinghai Province, with few reports from other regions in China. In this research, the species diversity of Akanthomyces in the Jinyun Mountains, Chongqing was investigated. Fourteen infected spider specimens were collected and two new species (A. bashanensis and A. beibeiensis) and a known species (A. tiankengensis) were established and described according to a multi-locus phylogenetic analysis and the morphological characteristics. Our results reveal abundant Akanthomyces specimens and three species were found at Jinyun Mountain. Due to its being an important kind of entomopathogenic fungi, further attention needs to be paid to the diversity of other entomopathogenic fungi in Chongqing, China.
["entomopathogenic fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

﻿Pleomorphic Dematiomelanomma yunnanense gen. et sp. nov. (Ascomycota, Melanommataceae) from grassland vegetation in Yunnan, China
During a survey of microfungi associated with grasslands and related vegetation types from Yunnan Province in China, various ascomycetous and coelomycetous fungi were isolated. This study reports the discovery of four strains of ascomycetous and coelomycetous fungi from dead stalks of Hypericum monogynum L. (Hypericaceae) and Rubus parvifolius L. (Rosaceae) in the Zhaotong region of Yunnan Province, China. The isolates were characterized using multi-locus phylogenetic analyses and were found to represent a new monophyletic lineage in Melanommataceae (Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes). This new clade was named as Dematiomelanomma yunnanense gen. et sp. nov. which consists of both sexual and asexual morphs. The sexual morph is characterized by globose to subglobose ascomata with a central ostiole, cylindrical asci with a pedicel and ocular chamber, and muriform, ellipsoidal to fusiform ascospores. The asexual morph has synanamorphs including both brown, muriform macroconidia and hyaline, round to oblong or ellipsoidal microconidia. These findings contribute to the understanding of fungal diversity in grasslands and related vegetation types in Yunnan Province, China.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Morphological and phylogenetic analyses reveal two new species in Conidiobolus s.s. (Conidiobolaceae, Entomophthorales) from China
The genus Conidiobolus s.s. (Conidiobolaceae, Entomophthorales) has been delimited to accommodate members that produce microspores. Herein, morphological studies, combined with phylogenetic analysis based on the nuclear large subunit of rDNA (nucLSU), the mitochondrial small subunit of rDNA (mtSSU), and the elongation-factor-like gene (EFL) revealed two Conidiobolus s.s. species isolated from plant debris in China. Conidiobolus longiconidiophorus sp. nov. is mainly characterised by its long primary conidiophores, while Conidiobolus polysporus sp. nov. is diagnosed by 2–3 primary conidia arising from branched primary conidiophores. Phylogenetically, the former is grouped into a separate clade, while the latter is closely related to C. incongruus, but is morphologically distinguished by its larger primary conidia and branched conidiophores.
["Conidiobolaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Infectious Diseases and Mycology"]

Culturable fungi from urban soils in China II, with the description of 18 novel species in Ascomycota (Dothideomycetes, Eurotiomycetes, Leotiomycetes and Sordariomycetes)
As China’s urbanisation continues to advance, more people are choosing to live in cities. However, this trend has a significant impact on the natural ecosystem. For instance, the accumulation of keratin-rich substrates in urban habitats has led to an increase in keratinophilic microbes. Despite this, there is still a limited amount of research on the prevalence of keratinophilic fungi in urban areas. Fortunately, our group has conducted in-depth investigations into this topic since 2015. Through our research, we have discovered a significant amount of keratinophilic fungi in soil samples collected from various urban areas in China. In this study, we have identified and characterised 18 new species through the integration of morphological and phylogenetic analyses. These findings reveal the presence of numerous unexplored fungal taxa in urban habitats, emphasising the need for further taxonomic research in urban China.
["Fungal taxonomy"]

﻿Morphological and phylogenetic characterisation of two new soil-borne fungal taxa belonging to Clavicipitaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycota)
The fungal taxa belonging to the Clavicipitaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycota) are widely distributed and include diverse saprophytic, symbiotic and pathogenic species that are associated with soils, insects, plants, fungi and invertebrates. In this study, we identified two new fungal taxa belonging to the family Clavicipitaceae that were isolated from soils collected in China. Morphological characterisation and phylogenetic analyses showed that the two species belong to Pochonia (Pochonia sinensis sp. nov.) and a new genus for which we propose Paraneoaraneomyces gen. nov. in Clavicipitaceae.
["Clavicipitaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and fungal interactions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Diversity of Cladosporium (Cladosporiales, Cladosporiaceae) species in marine environments and report on five new species
Cladosporium species are cosmopolitan fungi, characterized by olivaceous or dark colonies with coronate conidiogenous loci and conidial hila with a central convex dome surrounded by a raised periclinal rim. Cladosporium species have also been discovered in marine environments. Although many studies have been performed on the application of marine originated Cladosporium species, taxonomic studies on these species are scarce. We isolated Cladosporium species from three under-studied habitats (sediment, seawater, and seaweed) in two districts including an intertidal zone in the Republic of Korea and the open sea in the Western Pacific Ocean. Based on multigenetic marker analyses (for the internal transcribed spacer, actin, and translation elongation factor 1), we identified fourteen species, of which five were found to represent new species. These five species were C. lagenariiforme sp. nov., C. maltirimosum sp. nov., C. marinum sp. nov. in the C. cladosporioides species complex, C. snafimbriatum sp. nov. in the C. herbarum species complex, and C. marinisedimentum sp. nov. in the C. sphaerospermum species complex. Morphological characteristics of the new species and aspects of differences with the already known species are described herein together with molecular data.
["deep sea"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

﻿Studies of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) species associated with plant cankers in Beijing, China, with three new species described
The genus Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) comprises endophytes, pathogens and saprophytes, inhabiting a wide range of woody hosts and resulting in serious canker disease. To determine the diversity of Diaporthe species associated with canker disease of host plants in Beijing, China, a total of 35 representative strains were isolated from 18 host genera. Three novel species (D. changpingensis, D. diospyrina and D. ulmina) and four known species (D. corylicola, D. donglingensis, D. eres and D. rostrata) were identified, based on morphological comparison and phylogenetic analyses using partial ITS, cal, his3, tef1-α and tub2 loci. These results provide an understanding of the taxonomy of Diaporthe species associated with canker diseases in Beijing, China.
["Canker disease"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

﻿Identification and pathogenicity of Aurifilum species (Cryphonectriaceae, Diaporthales) on Terminalia species in Southern China
The family of Cryphonectriaceae (Diaporthales) contains many important tree pathogens and the hosts are wide-ranging. Tree species of Terminalia were widely planted as ornamental trees alongside city roads and villages in southern China. Recently, stem canker and cracked bark were observed on 2–6 year old Terminalia neotaliala and T. mantaly in several nurseries in Zhanjiang City, Guangdong Province, China. Typical conidiomata of Cryphonectriaceae fungi were observed on the surface of the diseased tissue. In this study, we used DNA sequence data (ITS, BT2/BT1, TEF-1α, rpb2) and morphological characteristics to identify the strains from Terminalia trees. Our results showed that isolates obtained in this study represent two species of Aurifilum, one previously described species, A. terminali, and an unknown species, which we described as A. cerciana sp. nov. Pathogenicity tests demonstrated that both A. terminali and A. cerciana were able to infect T. neotaliala and two tested Eucalyptus clones, suggesting the potential for Aurifilum fungi to become new pathogens of Eucalyptus.
["Cryphonectriaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research", "Plant Disease Management Techniques"]

﻿Morphological and molecular analyses reveal two new species of Microcera (Nectriaceae, Hypocreales) associated with scale insects on walnut in China
The fungal genus Microcera consists of species mostly occurring as parasites of scale insects, but are also commonly isolated from soil or lichens. In the present study, we surveyed the diversity and assess the taxonomy of entomopathogenic fungi in Sichuan Province, China. Two new species of Microcera, viz. M. chrysomphaludis and M. pseudaulacaspidis, were isolated from scale insects colonising walnut (Juglans regia). Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analyses of ITS, LSU, tef1-α, rpb1, rpb2, acl1, act, tub2, cmdA and his3 sequence data provide evidence for the validity of the two species and their placement in Nectriaceae (Hypocreales). Microcera pseudaulacaspidis primarily differs from similar species by having more septate and smaller cylindrical macroconidia, as well as DNA sequence data. Meanwhile, Microcera chrysomphaludis has elliptical, one-septate ascospores with acute ends and cylindrical, slightly curved with 4–6 septate macroconidia up to 78 µm long. Morphological descriptions with illustrations of the novel species and DNA-based phylogeny generated from analyses of multigene dataset are also provided to better understand species relationships.
["Two new taxa"]

﻿Botryosphaerialean fungi associated with woody oil plants cultivated in Sichuan Province, China
Woody oil plants are important economic trees which are widely cultivated and distributed throughout China. Surveys conducted during 2020 and 2021 on several woody oil plantations from five regions of Sichuan Province, China, revealed a high diversity of Botryosphaerialean fungi. The identification of 50 botryosphaeriaceous isolates was carried out based on both morphology and multi-gene phylogenetic analysis of internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), translation elongation factor 1-alpha gene (tef1) and β-tubulin gene (tub2). This allowed the identification of twelve previously known Botryosphaeriales species: Aplosporella prunicola, A. ginkgonis, Barriopsis tectonae, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Bo. fabicerciana, Diplodia mutila, Di. seriata, Dothiorella sarmentorum, Neofusicoccum parvum, Sardiniella guizhouensis, Sphaeropsis citrigena, and Sp. guizhouensis, and four novel species belonging to the genera Diplodia and Dothiorella, viz. Di. acerigena, Di. pistaciicola, Do. camelliae and Do. zanthoxyli. The dominant species isolated across the surveyed regions were Botryosphaeria dothidea, Sardiniella guizhouensis and Diplodia mutila, representing 20%, 14% and 12% of the total isolates, respectively. In addition, most isolates were obtained from Pistacia chinensis (14 isolates), followed by Camellia oleifera (10 isolates). The present study enhances the understanding of Botryosphaeriales species diversity on woody oil plants in Sichuan Province, China.
["Botryosphaeriales"]

﻿Three new species of Trichoderma (Hypocreales, Hypocreaceae) from soils in China
Trichoderma spp. are diverse fungi with wide distribution. In this study, we report on three new species of Trichoderma, namely T. nigricans, T. densissimum and T. paradensissimum, collected from soils in China. Their phylogenetic position of these novel species was determined by analyzing the concatenated sequences of the second largest nuclear RNA polymerase subunit encoding gene (rpb2) and the translation elongation factor 1– alpha encoding gene (tef1). The results of the phylogenetic analysis showed that each new species formed a distinct clade: T. nigricans is a new member of the Atroviride Clade, and T. densissimum and T. paradensissimum belong to the Harzianum Clade. A detailed description of the morphology and cultural characteristics of the newly discovered Trichoderma species is provided, and these characteristics were compared with those of closely related species to better understand the taxonomic relationships within the Trichoderma.
["Hypocreales"]
["Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

﻿Morphology and molecular analyses reveal three new species of Botryosphaeriales isolated from diseased plant branches in China
The Botryosphaeriales represents an ecologically diverse group of fungi, comprising endophytes, saprobes, and plant pathogens. In this study, taxonomic analyses were conducted based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of multi-gene sequence data from four loci (ITS, LSU, tef1-α, and tub2). Thirteen isolates obtained from Beijing and Yunnan Province were identified as seven species of Botryosphaeriales, including Aplosporella javeedii, Dothiorella alpina, Phaeobotryon aplosporum and Ph. rhois, and three previously undescribed species, namely Aplosporella yanqingensis, Dothiorella baihuashanensis, and Phaeobotryon platycladi. Additionally, the new records of Dothiorella alpina from the host species Populus szechuanica, Phaeobotryon aplosporum from Juglans mandshurica, and Phaeobotryon rhois from Populus alba var. pyramidalis are included.
["Aplosporella"]

﻿Two new species of genus Leucoagaricus (Agaricaceae, Agaricales) from Pakistan
The genus of basidiomycetous fungi, Leucoagaricus, occurs worldwide, from subtropical to boreal latitudes. Several collections of Leucoagaricus were made during mycological field trips conducted in different forests of Margalla, Pakistan. An integrative framework combining morphological and phylogenetic data was employed for their study. As a result, the two species La. margallensis and La. glareicolor are here described as new to science. Detailed macro- and micro-morphological descriptions, and a molecular phylogenetic reconstruction based on nrITS and LSU sequence data are provided and used to discriminate the new species from morphologically and phylogenetically close taxa. Whereas, our phylogenetic tree inference gave unequivocal support for the inclusion of these two species within the section Leucoagaricus.
["Bayesian analysis"]

﻿Elaphomyces castilloi (Elaphomycetaceae, Ascomycota) and Entoloma secotioides (Entolomataceae, Basidiomycota), two new sequestrate fungi from tropical montane cloud forest from south Mexico
Two new species of sequestrate fungi are described from south Mexico based on morphological and molecular evidences. Here we describe Elaphomyces castilloi characterized by the yellowish mycelial mat, dull blue gleba and ascospores of 9.7–11.5 µm; Entoloma secotioides is characterized by the secotioid basidiomata, sulcate, pale cream pileus, and basidiospores of 7–13 × 5–9 µm. Both species grow in montane cloud forest under Quercus sp. in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. Descriptions, photographs, and multilocus phylogeny for both species are presented.
["Chiapas"]

﻿Pseudolepraria, a new leprose genus revealed in Ramalinaceae (Ascomycota, Lecanoromycetes, Lecanorales) to accommodate Lepraria stephaniana
The new genus Pseudolepraria Kukwa, Jabłońska, Kosecka & Guzow-Krzemińska is introduced to accommodate Lepraria stephaniana Elix, Flakus & Kukwa. Phylogenetic analyses of nucITS, nucLSU, mtSSU and RPB2 markers recovered the new genus in the family Ramalinaceae with strong support. The genus is characterised by its thick, unstratified thallus composed entirely of soredia-like granules, the presence of 4-O-methylleprolomin, salazinic acid, zeorin and unknown terpenoid, and its phylogenetic position. The new combination, P. stephaniana (Elix, Flakus & Kukwa) Kukwa, Jabłońska, Kosecka & Guzow-Krzemińska, is proposed.
["Lichenized fungi"]

﻿Five new species of Schizoporaceae (Basidiomycota, Hymenochaetales) from East Asia
Five new wood-inhabiting fungi, Lyomyces albopulverulentus, L. yunnanensis, Xylodon daweishanensis, X. fissuratus, and X. puerensis spp. nov., are proposed based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Lyomyces albopulverulentus is characterized by brittle basidiomata, pruinose hymenophore with a white hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and ellipsoid basidiospores. Lyomyces yunnanensis is characterized by a grandinioid hymenial surface, the presence of capitate cystidia, and ellipsoid basidiospores. Xylodon daweishanensis is characterized by an odontioid hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and broad ellipsoid-to-subglobose basidiospores. Xylodon fissuratus is characterized by a cracking basidiomata with a grandinioid hymenial surface, and ellipsoid basidiospores. Xylodon puerensis is characterized by a poroid hymenophore with an angular or slightly daedaleoid configuration, and ellipsoid-to-broad-ellipsoid basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated and phylogenetic analyses were performed with the maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian inference methods. The phylogram based on the ITS+nLSU rDNA gene regions (Fig. 1) included six genera within the families Chaetoporellaceae, Hyphodontiaceae, Hymenochaetaceae, and Schizoporaceae (Hymenochaetales)—Fasciodontia, Hastodontia, Hyphodontia, Kneifiella, Lyomyces, and Xylodon—in which the five new species were grouped into genera Lyomyces and Xylodon. The phylogenetic tree inferred from the ITS sequences highlighted that Lyomyces albopulverulentus formed a monophyletic lineage and was then grouped closely with L. bambusinus, L. orientalis, and L. sambuci; additionally, L. yunnanensis was sister to L. niveus with strong supports. The topology, based on the ITS sequences, revealed that Xylodon daweishanensis was retrieved as a sister to X. hyphodontinus; X. fissuratus was grouped with the four taxa X. montanus, X. subclavatus, X. wenshanensis, and X. xinpingensis; and X. puerensis was clustered with X. flaviporus, X. ovisporus, X. subflaviporus, X. subtropicus, and X. taiwanianus.

﻿Taxonomy of Thelidium auruntii and T. incavatum complexes (lichenized Ascomycota, Verrucariales) in Finland
The taxonomy of lichen species morphologically similar to Thelidium auruntii and T. incavatum in Finland is being revised. Based on ITS and morphology, ten species occur in Finland. All species are restricted to calcareous rocks. The Thelidium auruntii morphocomplex includes six species: T. auruntii, T. huuskonenii sp. nov., T. pseudoauruntii sp. nov., T. sallaense sp. nov, T. toskalharjiense sp. nov. and T. sp. 1. In the ITS phylogeny, T. auruntii, T. pseudoauruntii and T. sallaense group together, but the remaining species are placed outside of this clade. All the species have northern distribution in Finland, occurring on fells in NW Finland and/or in gorges in the Oulanka area in NE Finland. The Thelidium incavatum morphocomplex includes four species: T. declivum sp. nov., T. incavatum, T. mendax sp. nov. and T. sp. 2. This morphogroup is not resolved as monophyletic in the ITS phylogeny, with only T. declivum and T. mendax forming a strongly supported group. Thelidium incavatum is rather common in SW Finland, with one separate locality in eastern Finland. Thelidium declivum occurs only in the Oulanka area. Thelidium mendax occurs in the Oulanka area, but one locality is known from eastern central Finland. Thelidium sp. 2 is known from one locality in SW Lapland.
["Calcareous rocks"]

﻿Endophytic Colletotrichum (Sordariomycetes, Glomerellaceae) species associated with Citrus grandis cv. “Tomentosa” in China
Colletotrichum species are well-known plant pathogens, saprobes, endophytes, human pathogens and entomopathogens. However, little is known about Colletotrichum as endophytes of plants and cultivars including Citrus grandis cv. “Tomentosa”. In the present study, 12 endophytic Colletotrichum isolates were obtained from this host in Huazhou, Guangdong Province (China) in 2019. Based on morphology and combined multigene phylogeny [nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (gapdh), chitin synthase 1 (chs-1), histone H3 (his3) actin (act), beta-tubulin (β-tubulin) and glutamine synthetase (gs)], six Colletotrichum species were identified, including two new species, namely Colletotrichum guangdongense and C. tomentosae. Colletotrichum asianum, C. plurivorum, C. siamense and C. tainanense are identified as being the first reports on C. grandis cv. “Tomentosa” worldwide. This study is the first comprehensive study on endophytic Colletotrichum species on C. grandis cv. “Tomentosa” in China.
["Chinese traditional medicinal plants"]

﻿Segregation of the genus Parahypoxylon (Hypoxylaceae, Xylariales) from Hypoxylon by a polyphasic taxonomic approach
During a mycological survey of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a fungal specimen that morphologically resembled the American species Hypoxylon papillatum was encountered. A polyphasic approach including morphological and chemotaxonomic together with a multigene phylogenetic study (ITS, LSU, tub2, and rpb2) of Hypoxylon spp. and representatives of related genera revealed that this strain represents a new species of the Hypoxylaceae. However, the multi-locus phylogenetic inference indicated that the new fungus clustered with H. papillatum in a separate clade from the other species of Hypoxylon. Studies by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detection and ion mobility tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD-IM-MS/MS) were carried out on the stromatal extracts. In particular, the MS/MS spectra of the major stromatal metabolites of these species indicated the production of hitherto unreported azaphilone pigments with a similar core scaffold to the cohaerin-type metabolites, which are exclusively found in the Hypoxylaceae. Based on these results, the new genus Parahypoxylon is introduced herein. Aside from P. papillatum, the genus also includes P. ruwenzoriense sp. nov., which clustered together with the type species within a basal clade of the Hypoxylaceae together with its sister genus Durotheca.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis"]

﻿Chaenothecopsis (Mycocaliciales, Ascomycota) from exudates of endemic New Zealand Podocarpaceae
The order Mycocaliciales (Ascomycota) comprises fungal species with diverse, often highly specialized substrate ecologies. Particularly within the genus Chaenothecopsis, many species exclusively occur on fresh and solidified resins or other exudates of vascular plants. In New Zealand, the only previously known species growing on plant exudate is Chaenothecopsis schefflerae, found on several endemic angiosperms in the family Araliaceae. Here we describe three new species; Chaenothecopsis matai Rikkinen, Beimforde, Tuovila & A.R. Schmidt, C. nodosa Beimforde, Tuovila, Rikkinen & A.R. Schmidt, and C. novae-zelandiae Rikkinen, Beimforde, Tuovila & A.R. Schmidt, all growing on exudates of endemic New Zealand conifers of the Podocarpaceae family, particularly on Prumnopitys taxifolia. Phylogenetic analyses based on ribosomal DNA regions (ITS and LSU) grouped them into a distinct, monophyletic clade. This, as well as the restricted host range, suggests that all three taxa are endemic to New Zealand. Copious insect frass between the ascomata contain ascospores or show an early stage of ascomata development, indicating that the fungi are spread by insects. The three new species represent the first evidence of Chaenothecopsis from any Podocarpaceae species and the first from any gymnosperm exudates in New Zealand.
["Chaenothecopsis"]

﻿Two new species of Astrothelium from Sud Yungas in Bolivia and the first discovery of vegetative propagules in the family Trypetheliaceae (lichen-forming Dothideomycetes, Ascomycota)
Two new species of Astrothelium are described from the Yungas forest in Bolivian Andes. Astrothelium chulumanense is characterised by pseudostromata concolorous with the thallus, perithecia immersed for the most part, with the upper portion elevated above the thallus and covered, except the tops, with orange pigment, apical and fused ostioles, the absence of lichexanthone (but thallus UV+ orange-yellow), clear hamathecium, 8-spored asci and amyloid, large, muriform ascospores with median septa. Astrothelium isidiatum is known only in a sterile state and produces isidia that develop in groups on areoles, but easily break off to reveal a medulla that resembles soralia. Both species, according to the two-locus phylogeny, belong to Astrothelium s.str. The production of isidia is reported from the genus Astrothelium and the family Trypetheliaceae for the first time.
["lichens"]

﻿Additions to Thelebolales (Leotiomycetes, Ascomycota): Pseudogeomyces lindneri gen. et sp. nov. and Pseudogymnoascus campensis sp. nov.
Thelebolales are globally distributed fungi with diverse ecological characteristics. The classification of Thelebolales remains controversial to date and this study introduces two new taxa, based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses. The results of phylogenetic analyses indicated that the new taxa formed distinct lineages with strong support that were separated from the other members of Thelebolales. The new taxa described herein did not form sexual structures. The phylogenetic relationships of the new taxa and the morphological differences between these taxa and the other species under Thelebolales are also discussed.
["Leotiomycetes"]

﻿Acremonium capsici and A. guizhouense, two new members of Acremonium (Hypocreales, Sordariomycetes) isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Capsicum annuum
Two new species, Acremonium capsici and A. guizhouense, isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Capsicum annuum, are described and illustrated. Two-locus DNA sequences based on phylogeny, in combination with the morphology of the asexual morph, were used to characterize these species. In the phylogenetic tree, both new species clustered into a monophyletic clade with strong support, distinct from other previously known species of Acremonium. The new species differed from their allied species in their morphology.
["filamentous fungi"]

﻿Morphology, phylogeny, mitogenomics and metagenomics reveal a new entomopathogenic fungus Ophiocordyceps nujiangensis (Hypocreales, Ophiocordycipitaceae) from Southwestern China
Ophiocordyceps contains the largest number of Cordyceps sensu lato, various species of which are of great medicinal value. In this study, a new entomopathogenic fungus, Ophiocordyceps nujiangensis, from Yunnan in southwestern China, was described using morphological, phylogenetic, and mitogenomic evidence, and its fungal community composition was identified. It was morphologically characterized by a solitary, woody, and dark brown stromata, smooth-walled and septate hyphae, solitary and gradually tapering conidiogenous cells with plenty of warty protrusions, and oval or fusiform conidia (6.4–11.2 × 3.7–6.4 µm) with mucinous sheath. The phylogenetic location of O. nujiangensis was determined based on the Bayesian inference (BI) and the maximum likelihood (ML) analyses by concatenating nrSSU, nrLSU, tef-1a, rpb1, and rpb2 datasets, and ten mitochondrial protein-coding genes (PCGs) datasets (atp6, atp9, cob, cox2, nad1, nad2, nad3, nad4, nad4L, and nad5). Phylogenetic analyses revealed that O. nujiangensis belonged to the Hirsutella sinensis subclade within the Hirsutella clade of Ophiocordyceps. And O. nujiangensis was phylogenetically clustered with O. karstii, O. liangshanensis, and O. sinensis. Simultaneously, five fungal phyla and 151 fungal genera were recognized in the analysis of the fungal community of O. nujiangensis. The fungal community composition differed from that of O. sinensis, and differences in the microbial community composition of closely related species might be appropriate as further evidence for taxonomy.
["microbial community"]
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Exophiala yunnanensis and Exophiala yuxiensis (Chaetothyriales, Herpotrichiellaceae), two new species of soil-inhabiting Exophiala from Yunnan Province, China
During a survey of soil fungi collected from Yunnan Province, China, two new species of Exophiala, E. yunnanensis and E. yuxiensis, were isolated from the soil of karst rocky desertification (KRD). The DNA sequences of these respective strains, including internal transcribed spacers (ITS), large subunit nuclear ribosomal RNA (LSU rRNA), partial small subunit (SSU) and β-tubulin (tub2) were sequenced and compared with those from species closely-related to Exophiala. Exophiala yunnanensis differs from the phylogenetically closely related E. nagquensis and E. brunnea by its smaller aseptate conidia. Exophiala yuxiensis is phylogenetically related to E. lecanii-corni, E. lavatrina and E. mali, but can be distinguished from them by its larger conidia. Full descriptions, illustrations and phylogenetic positions of E. yunnanensis and E. yuxiensis were provided.
["Exophiala"]

﻿Three new species of Nigrograna (Dothideomycetes, Pleosporales) associated with Arabica coffee from Yunnan Province, China
Coffee is one of the most important cash crops in Yunnan Province, China. Yunnan is ranked as the biggest producer of high-quality coffee in China. During surveys of microfungi from coffee plantations in Yunnan, six fungal strains that resemble Nigrogranaceae were collected. Multi-gene analyses of a combined SSU-LSU-ITS-rpb2-tef1-α sequence data matrix were used to infer the phylogenetic position of the new species in Nigrograna while morphological characteristics were used to deduce the taxonomic position of the new species. Six fungal strains isolated from decaying branches of Coffea arabica represent three new saprobic species in Nigrograna. The three new species, N. asexualis, N. coffeae, and N. puerensis, are described with full (macro and micro characteristics) descriptions, illustrations, and a phylogenetic tree that shows the phylogenetic position of new taxa.

﻿Two new Botryosphaeria (Botryosphaeriales, Botryosphaeriaceae) species in China
Five ascomycetous strains were isolated from dead branches and leaves of Salix (Salicaceae) and Osmanthus fragrans (Oleaceae), respectively. BLAST searches with ITS sequences in GenBank suggested a high degree of similarity to Botryosphaeria dothidea. To accurately identify these strains, we further analysed their morphological characteristics of asci, ascospores, all conidiophore cells and conidia. Phylogenetic relationships, based on ITS, rpb2, tef1 and tub2 gene sequences, confirmed our strains represented two novel species, which are introduced here as B. salicicola and B. osmanthuse spp. nov.

﻿Four new Phragmidium (Phragmidiaceae, Pucciniomycetes) species from Rosaceae plants in Guizhou Province of China
In this study, four new species of Phragmidium were proposed based on morphological and molecular characters. In morphology, Phragmidium rosae-roxburghii sp. nov. was distinguished to related taxa by its unique square to diamond-shaped urediniospores; Ph. rubi-coreani sp. nov. differed from Ph. barclayi and Ph. cibanum because of teliospores with fewer cells and shorter pedicels; urediniospores of Ph. potentillae-freynianae sp. nov. were bigger than Ph. duchesneae-indicae; and Ph. rosae-laevigatae sp. nov. produced bigger urediniospores than Ph. jiangxiense. The phylogenetic analyses based on the combination of two loci (ITS and LSU) also supported our morphological conclusion. In the meantime, three previously known species were also described herein.
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿New species and records of Neomassaria, Oxydothis and Roussoella (Pezizomycotina, Ascomycota) associated with palm and bamboo from China
Several micro fungi were gathered from bamboo and palm in Guizhou Province, China. In morphology, these taxa resemble Neomassaria, Roussoella and Oxydothis. Multi-gene phylogenetic analyses based on combined ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb2 and tef1 loci confirmed that two are new geographical records for China, (viz. Roussoella siamensis, Neomassaria fabacearum), while two of them are new to science (viz. Oxydothis fortunei sp. nov. and Roussoella bambusarum sp. nov.). The stromata of Roussoella bambusarum are similar to those of R. thailandica, but its ascospores are larger. In addition, multi-gene phylogenetic analyses show that Oxydothis fortunei is closely related to O. inaequalis, but the J- ascus subapical ring as well as the ascospores of O. inaequalis are smaller. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of all species are provided.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿A new species of Megalaria (Ramalinaceae, Ascomycota) from Thailand, and recognition of subgenus Catillochroma
Tropical regions harbor a substantial diversity of lichenized fungi, but face numerous threats to their persistence, often even before previously unknown species have been described and their evolutionary relationships have been elucidated. Megalaria (Ramalinaceae) is a lichen-forming genus of fungi that produces crustose thalli, and includes a number of lineages occupying tropical rain forests; however, taxonomic and phylogenetic work on this clade is limited. Here we leverage both morphological and sequence data to describe a new species from the tropics, M. pachaylenophila. This taxon forms a crustose thallus, lacks secondary metabolites, and occurs in mangrove forests of Thailand. We supplemented molecular data from this species with data from other species, including two genera related to and occasionally included in Megalaria, namely Catillochroma and Lopezaria. Our analyses revealed Catillochroma species form a monophyletic group embedded within Megalaria, and we therefore recognize this clade at the subgeneric level. Since we only included the type species of Lopezaria in this study, we refrain from proposing a taxonomic conclusion for that clade at the moment. Several taxonomic combinations are made to reflect phylogenetic evidence supporting the inclusion of these species in Megalaria.

﻿A new study of Nagrajomyces: with two new species proposed and taxonomic status inferred by phylogenetic methods
Nagrajomyces (incertae sedis, Ascomycota) is a monotypic genus with a previously unknown systematic position. In this report, two new species are proposed, Nagrajomyces fusiformis and Nagrajomyces laojunshanensis. These new taxa are proposed based on morphological characteristics evident via light microscopy and molecular data. Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses (ITS rDNA, nrLSU rDNA, RPB2, and TEF1-α) show that specimens recently collected in Yunnan Province, China are closely related to Gnomoniaceae. Both new species and known species were discovered repeatedly in their asexual developmental form exclusively on twigs of Rhododendron spp. (Ericaceae). This indicates a host specificity of Nagrajomyces spp. for species of Rhododendron.
["host specificity"]

﻿A new species and four new records of Bacidia (Lecanorales, Ramalinaceae) from South Korea, with a key to Korean species
A new species, Bacidia fuscopallida Lee & Heo and four new records, B. ekmaniana R. C. Harris, Ladd & Lendemer, B. friesiana (Hepp) Körb., B. heterochroa (Müll. Arg.) Zahlbr. and B. suffusa (Fr.) A. Schneid., are described from South Korea. Bacidia fuscopallida differs from B. diffracta S. Ekman, the most similar species, by warted but non-granular thallus, paler and smaller apothecia without pruina, proper exciple without crystals, over 11-septate ascospores and smaller pycnidia and pycnoconidia. Bacidia ekmaniana is recorded new to Asia, B. heterochroa is reported new to northeastern Asia and B. friesiana and B. suffusa are new to Korea. Molecular analyses employing internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences strongly support the classification of the five species of Bacidia. A surrogate key is provided to assist in the identification of all 19 taxa in Bacidia of Korea.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Note on the genus Nemania (Xylariaceae) – first records and a new species of the genus from Iran
In a survey of xylarialean fungi in northern Iran, some specimens attributable to the genus Nemania were collected, cultured and sequenced. Morphological evidence and phylogenetic analyses of a combined ITS, LSU, RPB2 and TUB2 gene dataset confirmed the presence of Nemania diffusa and N. serpens in Iran for the first time. Furthermore, the new species N. hyrcana, which shows similarities to N. subaenea and its putative synonym N. plumbea, but significantly differs from the latter in its DNA sequences, was encountered. All species are illustrated, described and discussed. In the phylogenetic analyses, for the first time, the overlooked ex-type ITS sequences of the neotype of the generic type, N. serpens and that of the holotype of N. prava, were added to a multi-gene matrix of Nemania. This revealed that the two accessions of N. serpens (HAST 235 and CBS 679.86), for which multigene data are available in GenBank, are misidentified, while the Iranian accession of N. serpens has an almost identical ITS sequence to the neotype, confirming its morphological species identification. The two previously accepted species of Euepixylon, E. udum and E. sphaeriostomum, are embedded within Nemania and are revealed as close relatives of N. serpens, supporting the inclusion of Euepixylon in Nemania.

﻿Four new species of Mycena sect. Calodontes (Agaricales, Mycenaceae) from northeast China
Species of Mycena sect. Calodontes are representative of the Mycena genus as a whole and are easily recognised by the pinkish, reddish, purplish to brownish pileus and larger basidiomata. Furthermore, the colour of the pileus in the species of sect. Calodontes often has a transition or changes in different stages and the combination of the colour of the pileus with cystidia and basidiospores can be used to recognise taxa within this section. To date, 19 species of Mycena sect. Calodontes have been reported worldwide. Including our recent description of M. yuezhuoi, five species of sect. Calodontes have been recorded in China. During examination of specimens collected in coniferous forests or mixed broadleaf-conifer forests in temperate regions of China, additional taxa assigned to sect. Calodontes were identified. Four new species are recognised, based mostly on characters of the pileus and cystidia. Phylogenetic analysis of sequence data from multiple DNA regions (ITS + rpb1 + tef1) supported the morphological evidence. Here, we propose M. polycystidiata, M. rufobrunnea, M. shengshanensis and M. subulata as new species in Mycena sect. Calodontes. Morphological descriptions, line drawings, habitat photos and comparisons with closely-related taxa are provided. A key to the 23 known species of sect. Calodontes is presented.
["coniferous forest"]

﻿Corrigendum: Pintos Á, Alvarado P (2022) New studies on Apiospora (Amphisphaeriales, Apiosporaceae): epitypification of Sphaeria apiospora, proposal of Ap. marianiae sp. nov. and description of the asexual morph of Ap. sichuanensis. MycoKeys 92: 63–78. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.92.87593
In the published version of the article “New studies on Apiospora (Amphisphaeriales, Apiosporaceae): epitypification of Sphaeria apiospora, proposal of Ap. marianiae sp. nov. and description of the asexual morph of Ap. sichuanensis” by Pintos & Alvarado, MycoKeys 92: 63–78 (2022) the culture designated as holotype of Apiospora marianiae was not indicated as being preserved in a metabolically inactive state. As a consequence, the proposed new species name is invalid due to Art. 40.8 of the Shenzhen Code. In addition, the epitypification of Sphaeria apiospora was published without an identifier and is therefore not Code compliant (Art. F.5.4, Shenzhen Code). The species is here validated, and the epitype designated again.
["Apiospora montagnei"]

﻿New species of Sticta (lichenised Ascomycota, lobarioid Peltigeraceae) from Bolivia suggest a high level of endemism in the Central Andes
Six species of Sticta are described as new to science on the basis of material from Bolivia and supported by phylogenetic analysis of the fungal ITS barcoding marker. The species were resolved in all three of the clades (I, II, III) widespread and common in the Neotropics, as defined in an earlier study on the genus. Comparison with material from neighbouring countries (i.e. Colombia, Ecuador, Peru) suggests that these new species may be potentially endemic to the Bolivian Yungas ecoregion. For each species, a detailed morphological and anatomical description is given. Sticta amboroensis Ossowska, Kukwa, B. Moncada & Lücking is a medium-sized green-algal species with laminal to submarginal apothecia with hirsute margins and with light to dark brown lower tomentum. Sticta aymara Ossowska, Kukwa, B. Moncada, Flakus, Rodriguez-Flakus & Lücking is a comparatively small cyanobacterial taxon with Nostoc as photobiont, laminal, richly branched, aggregate isidia and a golden to chocolate-brown lower tomentum. The medium-sized, cyanobacterial S. bicellulata Ossowska, Kukwa, B. Moncada & Lücking has cyanobacterial photobiont, bicellular ascospores, apothecia with white to golden-brown hairs on the margins, K+ violet apothecial margin (ring around disc) and epihymenium and a white to dark brown lower tomentum. In contrast, the green-algal species, S. carrascoensis Ossowska, Kukwa, B. Moncada & Lücking is characterised by its large size, apothecia with dark brown hairs on the margins and a yellow medulla. The cyanobacterial S. catharinae Ossowska, B. Moncada, Kukwa, Flakus, Rodriguez-Flakus & Lücking forms stipitate thalli with Nostoc as photobiont, abundant, laminal to submarginal apothecia and a golden-brown lower tomentum. Finally, the cyanobacterial S. pseudoimpressula Ossowska, Kukwa, B. Moncada & Lücking produces laminal apothecia with an orange-yellow line of pruina along the margins which reacts K+ carmine-red. In addition to the six new Bolivian taxa, the cyanobacterial S. narinioana B. Moncada, Ossowska & Lücking is described as new from Colombia and it represents the closely-related sister species of the Bolivian S. aymara; it differs from the latter largely in the marginal instead of laminal isidia.
["lichens"]

﻿Two new species of Trichoglossum (Geoglossaceae, Ascomycota) from south Mexico
Two new species of Trichoglossum are described from south Mexico based on morphological and molecular evidence. Trichoglossum caespitosum is characterized by the caespitose ascomata, rough and coiled paraphyses and the ascospores with 9–11 septa. Trichoglossum tropicale is characterized by the capitate ascomata, clavate and straight paraphyses and the ascospores with 10–12 septa. Both species grow in the tropical forests of the Yucatán peninsula. Here we provide descriptions and photographs for these species, together with a phylogenetic analyses based on the DNA sequences of nuc rDNA (ITS region and 28S gene) and a comparative table for the species known for America.
["Earth tongues"]

﻿Multigene phylogeny and morphology reveal Ophiocordyceps hydrangea sp. nov. and Ophiocordyceps bidoupensis sp. nov. (Ophiocordycipitaceae)
Ophiocordyceps species have a wide range of insect hosts, from solitary beetle larva to social insects. However, among the species of Ophiocordyceps, only a few attack cicada nymphs. These species are mainly clustered in the Ophiocordyceps sobolifera clade in Ophiocordyceps. A new entomopathogenic fungus parasitic on cicada nymphs, and another fungus parasitic on the larva of Coleoptera, are described in this study. The two new species viz. Ophiocordyceps hydrangea and Ophiocordyceps bidoupensis were introduced based on morphology and multigene phylogenetic evidence. The phylogenetic framework of Ophiocordyceps was reconstructed using a multigene (nrSSU, nr LSU, tef-1α, rpb1, and rpb2) dataset. The phylogenetic analyses results showed that O. hydrangea and O. bidoupensis were statistically well-supported in the O. sobolifera clade, forming two separate subclades from other species of Ophiocordyceps. The distinctiveness of these two new species was strongly supported by both molecular phylogeny and morphology.
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

﻿Taxonomy of Buellia epigaea-group (Caliciales, Caliciaceae), revealing a new species and two new records from China
During the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research Program, we discovered that white terricolous lichenized fungal species of Buellia De Not. were widely distributed across the Tibetan Plateau. After examining their morphology, chemistry and phylogeny, we describe Buellia alpina Xin Y. Wang & Li S. Wang, sp. nov. as new to science. It is present in alpine meadows, and is characterized by its effigurate thallus, distinct linear marginal lobes, cover of thick white pruina and four-spored asci. This is also the first report of Buellia elegans Poelt and Buellia epigaea (Pers.) Tuck from China. The Buellia epigaea-group has previously been characterized by white and often effigurate thalli that occur mainly on soil. However, our results show that species in this group actually belong to two distinct clades. This conclusion is based on analyses of the nuITS region and the combined regions dataset (nuITS-nuLSU-mtSSU-β-tubulin). We discuss differences in morphology, anatomy, chemistry and ecology among the putative Buellia epigaea-group. Detailed descriptions and figures for the three species from China and a key for species of Buellia epigaea-group are provided.

﻿A new Arthrinium-like genus of Amphisphaeriales in China
Species of Arthrinium s. l. are usually known as endophytes, pathogens or saprobes occurring on various hosts and substrates and are characterised by globose to subglobose, sometimes irregular, dark brown and smooth-walled or finely verruculose conidia, always with a truncate basal scar. Currently, Arthrinium s. l. contains two phylogenetically distinct clades, namely, Apiospora and Arthrinium s. s. However, Arthrinium trachycarpi and Ar. urticae have still not been properly classified. With new isolates from diseased leaves of Lithocarpus glaber collected in China, we propose the new Arthrinium-like genus Neoarthrinium in Amphisphaeriales. Based on the morphology and phylogeny of multiple loci, the new genus is established with the type species, N. lithocarpicola and three new combinations, N. moseri (syn. Wardomyces moseri), N. trachycarpi (syn. Ar. trachycarpi) and N. urticae (syn. Ar. urticae) are added to this genus.
["Apiospora"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food"]

﻿Diversity of fungi associated with Monochamus alternatus larval habitats in Bursaphelenchus xylophilus-infected Pinus massoniana and identification of two new ophiostomatalean species (Ascomycota, Ophiostomatales)
Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, a pathogenic pine wood nematode (PWN), is responsible for pine wilt disease (PWD), which has caused significant economic and ecological damage worldwide, particularly in East Asia. Multiple biological factors, such as the beetle vector Monochamus, symbiotic bacteria and associated fungi, are involved in the disease infection cycle. This study isolated and identified the fungal communities of Monochamus alternatus larval galleries and pupal chambers from different instars through field investigation, morphological observation and multi-locus DNA sequence analyses in Zhejiang Province, China. A total of 255 and 454 fungal strains were isolated from M. alternatus galleries and pupal chambers infected with PWN, from the 2nd–3rd and 4th–5th instar larvae, respectively. A total of 18 species of fungi were identified, 14 species were isolated from the 2nd–3rd instar larval galleries and six species from the galleries and pupal chambers of the 4th–5th instar larvae. Amongst them were six species belonging to four genera of ophiostomatalean fungi, including two novel species, Graphilbum xianjuensis sp. nov. and Ophiostoma taizhouense sp. nov. and four known species, Ceratocystiopsis weihaiensis, Ophiostoma ips, Sporothrix zhejiangensis and S. macroconidia. The findings revealed that the fungal diversity and abundance of the 2nd–3rd instar larvae differed markedly from those of the 4th–5th instar larvae. This difference could be the result of fungal succession. This study provides a thorough understanding of the fungi associated with PWD and lays the groundwork for future research.
["Ceratocystiopsis"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Two new species of Calonectria (Hypocreales, Nectriaceae) causing Eucalyptus leaf blight in Brazil
In recent decades, commercial Eucalyptus plantations have expanded toward the warm and humid regions of northern and northeastern Brazil, where Calonectria leaf blight (CLB) has become the primary fungal leaf disease of this crop. CLB can be caused by different Calonectria species, and previous studies have indicated that Calonectria might have high species diversity in Brazil. During a disease survey conducted in three commercial plantations of Eucalyptus in northeastern Brazil, diseased leaves from Eucalyptus trees with typical symptoms of CLB were collected, and Calonectria fungi were isolated. Based on phylogenetic analyses of six gene regions (act, cmdA, his3, rpb2, tef1, and tub2) and morphological characteristics, two new species of Calonectria were identified. Five isolates were named as C. paragominensis sp. nov. and four were named as C. imperata sp. nov. The pathogenicity to Eucalyptus of both species was confirmed by fulfilling the Koch’s postulates.
["Cylindrocladium"]

﻿Cladosporium spp. (Cladosporiaceae) isolated from Eucommia ulmoides in China
Eucommia ulmoides is a rare tree species in China with high medicinal and gum value. Nine strains of hyphomycetous fungi were isolated from the leaf litter of E. ulmoides in Guizhou Province. Preliminary identifications based on ITS indicated that they belong to the genus Cladosporium. Morphology and phylogenetic analyses based on the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) of the nrDNA, the partial translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1) gene and partial of actin (act) gene confirmed that the strains represent four species, including two novel taxa, viz., Cladosporium eucommiae and C. guizhouense and two new substrate records for known species.
["Asexual morphs"]

﻿Comprehensive treatise of Hevansia and three new genera Jenniferia, Parahevansia and Polystromomyces on spiders in Cordycipitaceae from Thailand
Collections of pathogenic fungi found on spiders from Thailand were selected for a detailed taxonomic study. Morphological comparison and phylogenetic analyses of the combined ITS, LSU, tef1, rpb1 and rpb2 sequence data indicated that these specimens formed new independent lineages within the Cordycipitaceae, containing two new genera occurring on spiders, i.e. Jenniferia gen. nov. and Polystromomyces gen. nov. Two new species in Jenniferia, J. griseocinerea sp. nov. and J. thomisidarum sp. nov., are described. Two strains, NHJ 03510 and BCC 2191, initially named as Akanthomyces cinereus (Hevansia cinerea), were shown to be part of Jenniferia. By including sequences of putative Hevansia species from GenBank, we also revealed Parahevansia as a new genus with the ex-type strain NHJ 666.01 of Pa. koratensis, accommodating specimens previously named as Akanthomyces koratensis (Hevansia koratensis). One species of Polystromomyces, Po. araneae sp. nov., is described. We established an asexual-sexual morph connection for Hevansia novoguineensis (Cordycipitaceae) with ex-type CBS 610.80 and proposed a new species, H. minuta sp. nov. Based on characteristics of the sexual morph, Hevansia and Polystromomyces share phenotypic traits by producing stipitate ascoma with fertile terminal heads; however, they differ in the shape and colour of the stipes. Meanwhile, Jenniferia produces non-stipitate ascoma with aggregated superficial perithecia forming a cushion. A new morphology of ascospores in Jenniferia is described, illustrated and compared with other species in Cordycipitaceae.
["Cordycipitaceae"]

﻿Two new species of Craterellus (Cantharellales, Hydnaceae) with veined hymenophore from north-eastern China
In this contribution to the genus Craterellus in northern China, two new species are introduced: Craterellus connatus and C. striatus. These species and C. atrobrunneolus, initially described in south-western China, are highly similar and closely related. The species delimitation is molecularly supported by multigene phylogenetic analysis of the nr LSU and tef-1α region. Craterellus connatus is characterised by its medium-sized basidiomata, greyish-brown and smooth pileus with an off-white margin, the hymenophore with a strongly anastomosing vein, turning khaki upon drying, connate stipe, broad ellipsoid to ellipsoid basidiospores (6.1–7.8 × 4.8–5.9 μm), slender basidia with (2)4–6 sterigmata and the absence of clamp connection. Craterellus striatus is characterised by its small-sized basidiomata, fibrillose, greyish-brown to yellowish-brown, fully perforated pileus with a brown fringe, the hymenophore with a forking vein, the stipe inflated at the base, broad ellipsoid to ellipsoid basidiospores (6.8–8.0 × 5.1–6.0 μm), 2–6 spored basidia, encrusted hyphae and the absence of clamp connection. Detailed macroscopic and microscopic descriptions, accompanied by illustrations and a taxonomic discussion, are presented. A key to the Chinese Craterellus species is also provided.
["Chinese species"]

﻿Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic evidence reveal two new species of Acremonium (Hypocreales, Sordariomycetes)
Using chicken feathers as bait, Acremonium globosisporum sp. nov. and Acremonium curvum sp. nov. were collected from the soil of Yuncheng East Garden Wildlife Zoo and Zhengzhou Zoo in China. They were identified by combining the morphological characteristics and the two-locus DNA sequence (LSU and ITS) analyses. In the phylogenetic tree, both new species clustered into separate subclades, respectively. They were different from their allied species in their morphology. The description, illustrations, and phylogenetic tree of the two new species were provided.
["Acremonium"]

﻿Pseudocryphonectria elaeocarpicola gen. et sp. nov. (Cryphonectriaceae, Diaporthales) causing stem blight of Elaeocarpus spp. in China
Cryphonectriaceae is a diaporthalean family containing important plant pathogens of which Cryphonectria parasitica is the most notorious one. An emerging stem blight disease on Elaeocarpus apiculatus (Elaeocarpaceae) and E. hainanensis was observed in Guangdong Province of China recently. Typical Cryphonectria blight-like symptoms including cankers on tree barks with obvious orange conidial tendrils were observed. Forty-eight isolates were obtained from diseased tissues and conidiomata formed on the hosts E. apiculatus and E. hainanensis. These isolates were further identified based on both morphology and molecular methods using the combined sequence data of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, large subunit of the nrDNA (LSU), the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1) and DNA-directed RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2) genes. As a result, the fungus represents an undescribed genus and species within the family Cryphonectriaceae. Hence, Pseudocryphonectria elaeocarpicola gen. et sp. nov. is proposed herein to represent these isolates from diseased barks of E. apiculatus and E. hainanensis. Pseudocryphonectria differs from the other genera of Cryphonectriaceae in having dimorphic conidia. Further inoculation results showed that P. elaeocarpicola is the causal agent of this emerging blight disease in China, which can quickly infect and kill the hosts E. apiculatus and E. hainanensis.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics"]

﻿Phylogenetic, ecological and morphological characteristics reveal two new spider-associated genera in Clavicipitaceae
Clavicipitaceous fungi are pathogenic to scale insects, white flies and other insect orders. However, a few species are spider-associated. Two new genera from China, Neoaraneomyces and Pseudometarhizium, are described based on phylogenetic, ecological and morphological characteristics. Two spider-associated species, Neoaraneomyces araneicola, Pseudometarhizium araneogenum, and an insect-associated species Pseudometarhizium lepidopterorum are included. The morphological characteristics of paecilomyces-like conidiogenous structures, present in many insect/spiders associated species make species-level identifications difficult. A phylogenetic analysis of the combined dataset (ITS, LSU, RPB2 and TEF), placed the two new genera in Clavicipitaceae. The new spider-associated species may be the result of convergent evolution to adapt to the ecological environment and may have undergone host jumping or altered their nutritional preferences.
["Clavicipitaceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

﻿Not (only) poison pies – Hebeloma (Agaricales, Hymenogastraceae) in Mexico
The species of Hebeloma have been little studied in Mexico, but have received attention as edibles and in trials to enhance production of edible fungi and tree growth through inoculation of seedlings with ectomycorrhizal fungi. Here we describe three new species of Hebeloma that are currently known only from Mexico. These species belong to separate sections of the genus: H. ambustiterranum is a member of H. sect. Hebeloma, H. cohaerens belongs to H. sect. Theobromina, while H. magnicystidiatum belongs to H. sect. Denudata. All three species were collected from subtropical pine-oak woodland; all records of H. cohaerens came from altitudes above 2500 m. Hebeloma ambustiterranum is commonly sold in the local markets of Tlaxcala as a prized edible mushroom. An additional nine species are reported from Mexico, of which eight are new records for the country: H. aanenii, H. eburneum, H. excedens, H. ingratum, H. neurophyllum, H. sordidulum, H. subaustrale and H. velutipes. First modern descriptions of H. neurophyllum and H. subaustrale, originally described from the USA, are given here.
["barcodes"]
["Evolutionary Game Theory and Cooperation", "Evolutionary Game Theory and Cooperation", "Experimental Behavioral Economics Studies"]

﻿Taxonomic studies of bluish Mycena (Mycenaceae, Agaricales) with two new species from northern China
Bluish Mycena are rare, but constitute a taxonomically complex group. A total of eight bluish species in four sections have previously been reported from North America, Europe, Oceania and Asia. Two species with a blue pileus, collected in China during our taxonomic study of Mycena s.l., are described here as new to science: Mycena caeruleogrisea sp. nov. and M. caeruleomarginata sp. nov. Detailed descriptions, line drawings and a morphological comparison with closely-related species, especially herbarium specimens of M. subcaerulea from the USA, are provided. The results of Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analyses of a dataset of 96 nuclear rDNA ITS and 20 nLSU sequences of 43 Mycena species are also presented. The morphological data and the results of the phylogenetic analyses support the introduction of M. caeruleogrisea and M. caeruleomarginata as new species. A taxonomic key to bluish Mycena species of sections Amictae, Cyanocephalae, Sacchariferae and Viscipelles is provided.
["Mycenoid fungi"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Two new species of Phylloporia (Hymenochaetales) from the Neotropics
Two new species of Phylloporia, P. crystallina and P. sumacoensis, are described based on 28S ribosomal RNA phylogeny, morphology, host, and geographic distribution. Phylloporia crystallina is characterized by pileate, perennial basidiomata with a duplex context, small pores 9–10 per mm, a monomitic hyphal system, absence of cystidia and cystidioles, presence of large rhomboid crystals in tube trama, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores measuring 2.8–3 × 2–2.3 μm, and growth on angiosperm stump. Phylloporia sumacoensis is characterized by pileate, perennial basidiomata with a duplex context, very small pores 10–12 per mm, a monomitic hyphal system, hyphae at dissepiment edges bearing fine crystals, presence of cystidioles, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose basidiospores measuring 3–3.7 × 2.1–2.8 μm, and growth on living liana.
["Hymenochaetaceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

﻿Dendrocorticiopsis orientalis gen. et sp. nov. of the Punctulariaceae (Corticiales, Basidiomycota) revealed by molecular data
Dendrocorticiopsis orientalis is presented in this study as a new genus and new species based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. This new taxon is characterized by resupinate, smooth and membranaceous basidiomata, monomitic hyphal system with clamps, colorless dendrohyphidia, variable presence of cystidia, and ellipsoid to ovoid basidiospores measuring 5–7 × 3.2–5.2 μm. The phylogenetic analyses based on the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS) + nuclear 28S rDNA (28S) dataset of Corticiales indicated that the new taxon is nested in Punctulariaceae, separated from other genera with strong support values. Descriptions, specimen photo, and illustrations of the new taxon are provided in this study. A morphological comparison of the four genera of Punctulariaceae is given.
["Corticioid fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Four new species of Trichomonascaceae (Saccharomycetales, Saccharomycetes) from Central China
Trichomonascaceae is the largest family of ascomycetous yeast in the order Saccharomycetales. In spite of the extensive body of research on Trichomonascaceae in China, there remain new species to be discovered. Here, we describe four new species isolated from several rotting wood samples from Henan Province, Central China. Phylogenetic analysis of a combined ITS and nrLSU dataset with morphological studies revealed four new species in the Trichomonascaceae: Diddensiella luoyangensis, Sugiyamaella cylindrica, Su. robnettiae, and Zygoascus detingensis. Clustering in the Diddensiella clade, D. luoyangensis’ closest neighbour was D. transvaalensis. Meanwhile, Su. cylindrica clustered in the Sugiyamaella clade closest to Su. marilandica and Su. qingdaonensis. Also clustering in the Sugiyamaella clade, Su. robnettiae was most closely related to Su. chuxiongensis. Finally, Z. detingensis occupied a distinct and separated basal branch from the other species of the genus Zygoascus. These results indicate a high species diversity of Trichomonascaceae.
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Two new species in Capillidium (Ancylistaceae, Entomophthorales) from China, with a proposal for a new combination
A taxonomic revision of Conidiobolus s.l. (Ancylistaceae, Entomophthorales) delimited all members that form capilliconidia into the genus Capillidium. In this study, we report two new species of Capillidium that were isolated in China. Capillidium macrocapilliconidium sp. nov. is characterised by large capilliconidia. Capillidium jiangsuense sp. nov. is differentiated by large capilliconidia and long, slender secondary conidiophores. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using sequences from the nuclear large subunit of rDNA (nucLSU), the mitochondrial small subunit of rDNA (mtSSU) and elongation-factor-like (EFL). The analyses revealed sister relationships between Ca. macrocapilliconidium sp. nov. and Ca. globuliferus / Ca. pumilum and between Ca. jiangsuense sp. nov. and Ca. denaeosporum. Additionally, a new combination of Ca. rugosum (Drechsler) B. Huang & Y. Nie comb. nov. is proposed herein. An identification key is provided for the ten accepted Capillidium species.
["Ancylistaceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

﻿Kodamaea hongheensis f.a., sp. nov., Kodamaea ovata f.a., sp. nov. and Kodamaea yamadae f.a., sp. nov., three new yeast species of Kodamaea (Saccharomycetales, Debaryomycetacae) from China
Kodamaea includes a growing number of interesting yeasts of the family Debaryomycetacae that are widely distributed in temperate, subtropical and tropical regions of different continents. During recent yeast collections in Henan and Yunnan Province in China, several isolates of Kodamaea were obtained from rotting wood, all of which represent undescribed taxa. Based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses (ITS and LSU rDNA), three new species are proposed: K. hongheensis f.a., sp. nov., K. ovata f.a., sp. nov. and K. yamadae f.a., sp. nov. In addition, sixteen Candida species, which are members of the Kodamaea clade based on phylogenetic analysis, are transferred to Kodamaea as new combinations. Our results indicate high species diversity of Kodamaea waiting to be discovered in rotting wood from tropical and subtropical China.
["Debaryomycetacae"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Fermentation and Sensory Analysis", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Two new Clitocella species from North China revealed by phylogenetic analyses and morphological characters
Two new species of Clitocella are proposed based on morphological and phylogenetic investigations. Clitocella borealichinensis sp. nov. is closely related to C. orientalis but distinguished from the latter by its slightly smaller basidiospores and hyphae of pileipellis with pale brown to brown intracellular or parietal pigment. Clitocella colorata sp. nov. is closely related to C. popinalis and C. mundula in macromorphology but is differentiated from C. popinalis by its slightly smaller basidiospores and the difference in genetic profile, and from C. mundula by its relatively colorful pileus (white to yellowish white, grayish white to grayish brown, pink white). Phylogenetic analyses based on sequence data from five different loci (ITS, nrLSU, tef1, rpb2 and atp6) support the taxonomic position of the two new species in the genus Clitocella. The illustrations and descriptions for the new taxa are provided.

﻿Morpho-molecular characterisation of Arecophila, with A. australis and A. clypeata sp. nov. and A. miscanthi comb. nov.
Three arecophila-like fungal samples were collected on dead culms of gramineous plants in China. Morphological studies of our new collections and the herbarium specimen of Arecophila gulubiicola (generic type) were conducted and the morphological affinity of our new collections with Arecophila was confirmed. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses using combined ITS, LSU, rpb2 and β-tubulin data from our collections revealed the phylogeny of Cainiaceae. The monospecific genus Alishanica (type species Al. miscanthi), which had been accepted in Cainiaceae, is revisited and synonymised under Arecophila. Based on morphology and phylogeny, Arecophila australis sp. nov. and A. clypeata sp. nov. are introduced as new species, while A. miscanthi is a new record for China. All the new collections are illustrated and described.
["Cainiaceae"]

﻿Three new species of Candolleomyces (Agaricomycetes, Agaricales, Psathyrellaceae) from the Yanshan Mountains in China
Three new species, Candolleomyces incanus, C. subcandolleanus and C. yanshanensis, were found and described from Yanshan Mountains in China. The identification is based on morphological observation combined with phylogenetic analysis of ITS-LSU-Tef1α-TUB2. This study enriched the species diversity of Candolleomyces in Yanshan Mountains and provided important data support for the systematic study of Candolleomyces in the future.
["molecular systematics"]

﻿Taxonomic study of Collybiopsis (Omphalotaceae, Agaricales) in the Republic of Korea with seven new species
Collybiopsis is a genus of the gymnopoid/marasmioid complex of the family Omphalotaceae. The classification system of Collybiopsis has recently undergone large changes through molecular approaches. The new classification system has not been applied for Collybiopsis in the Republic of Korea, and general research on this genus was also lacking. In this study, we analyzed the Collybiopsis species in the Republic of Korea by assessing all gymnopoid/marasmioid specimens collected nationwide for ten years by combining morphological approaches and multilocus (ITS + nrLSU) phylogenetic analysis. We thus confirmed that 16 species of Collybiopsis are present in the Republic of Korea, including two previously unreported species (Co. nonnulla and Co. dichroa) and seven new species (Co. albicantipes sp. nov., Co. clavicystidiata sp. nov., Co. fulva sp. nov., Co. orientisubnuda sp. nov., Co. subumbilicata sp. nov., Co. undulata sp. nov., and Co. vellerea sp. nov.). A thorough examination of the Collybiopsis suggested that it is difficult to distinguish or identify the species based on morphological characteristics only; a combined molecular approach is needed for accurate identification. The Collybiopsis database of the Republic of Korea is updated, and information on the new species is provided. Five new combinations from Marasmiellus to Collybiopsis are also proposed (Co. istanbulensis comb. nov., Co. koreana comb. nov., Co. omphalodes comb. nov., Co. pseudomphalodes comb. nov., and Co. ramuliciola comb. nov.).
["Collybia"]

﻿Hemiaustroboletus, a new genus in the subfamily Austroboletoideae (Boletaceae, Boletales)
The present study describes Hemiaustroboletus gen. nov. in the subfamily Austroboletoideae (Boletaceae). Hemiaustroboletus is supported by morphological and molecular data using LSU and RPB2 regions. Additionally, its geographic distribution and intraspecific variation were inferred using ITS sequences. The genus is characterised by pileate-stipitate basidiomata; purple, brown, reddish-brown, orange-brown to dark brown vinaceous pileus; whitish or lilac to vinaceous context and a subclavate stipe. Microscopically, it is characterised by ornamented, slightly verrucose, cracked to perforated brown basidiospores. Two species are described within the genus, Hemiaustroboletus vinaceobrunneus sp. nov. and H. vinaceus sp. nov. Hemiaustroboletus vinaceus sp. nov. is morphologically similar to Austroboletus gracilis, which suggests they may have been confused in the past. This study presents the phylogenetic placement, microscopic structures, detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations of both new species.
["Mexico"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Three novel species of Distoseptispora (Distoseptisporaceae) isolated from bamboo in Jiangxi Province, China
Decaying bamboo in freshwater is a unique eco-environment for fungi. Three new Distoseptispora (Distoseptisporaceae) species, D. meilingensis, D. yongxiuensis and D. yunjushanensis from submerged decaying bamboo culms in Jiangxi Province, China, were discovered, based on phylogenetic analyses and morphological characters. The combined data of ITS-LSU-SSU-Tef1 sequences were used to infer the phylogenetic relationship between D. meilingensis, D. yongxiuensis, D. yunjushanensis and related species. Both molecular analyses and morphological data supported D. meilingensis, D. yongxiuensis and D. yunjushanensis as three independent taxa.
["Hyphomycetes"]

﻿Emending Gymnopus sect. Gymnopus (Agaricales, Omphalotaceae) by including two new species from southern China
Based on phylogenetic analyses, some newly studied Chinese mushroom specimens were found to represent two distinct species within the genus Gymnopus. Along with G. fusipes (sect. Gymnopus) they form a distinct clade with high support, although their macromorphological characters seem to be closer to members of Gymnopus sect. Levipedes or sect. Vestipedes (Collybiopsis). When examined in detail, their micromorphological characters, especially the type of pileipellis, support them as new members of G. sect. Gymnopus. Therefore, two new species, G. omphalinoides and G. schizophyllus, and the emended circumscription of sect. Gymnopus are proposed in this paper. Detailed morphological descriptions, colour photos, illustrations of the two new species, morphological comparisons with similar taxa and the molecular-phylogenetic analyses of the combined nrITS and nrLSU data are presented. A key to the known species of G. sect. Gymnopus is also presented.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

﻿Two new Rinodina lichens from South Korea, with an updated key to the species of Rinodina in the far eastern Asia
Rinodina salicis Lee & Hur and Rinodina zeorina Lee & Hur are described as new lichen-forming fungi from forested wetlands or a humid forest in South Korea. Rinodina salicis is distinguishable from Rinodina excrescens Vain., the most similar species, by its olive-gray thallus with smaller areoles without having blastidia, contiguous apothecia, non-pruinose discs, paler disc color, wider ascospores in the Pachysporaria-type II, and the absence of secondary metabolites. Rinodina zeorina differs from Rinodina hypobadia Sheard by areolate and brownish thallus, non-pruinose apothecia, colorless and wider parathecium, narrower paraphyses with non-pigmented and unswollen tips, longer and narrower ascospores with angular to globose lumina, and the absence of pannarin. Molecular analyses employing internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences strongly support the two new species to be unique in the genus Rinodina. An updated key is provided to assist in the identification of all 63 taxa in Rinodina of the far eastern Asia.

﻿Revision of Immersaria and a new lecanorine genus in Lecideaceae (lichenised Ascomycota, Lecanoromycetes)
The species Immersaria cupreoatra has been included in Bellemerea. This caused us to reconsider the relationships between Bellemerea and the lecanorine species of Immersaria and to question the monophyly of Immersaria. Amongst 25 genera of the family Lecideaceae, most have lecideine apothecia, the exceptions being Bellemerea and Koerberiella, which have lecanorine apothecia. According to previous classifications, Immersaria included species with both lecanorine and lecideine apothecia. A five-loci phylogenetic tree (nrITS, nrLSU, RPB1, RPB2, and mtSSU) for Lecideaceae showed that Immersaria was split into two clades: firstly, all the lecideine apotheciate species and secondly, all the lecanorine apotheciate species. The latter clade was closely related to the remaining lecanorine apotheciate genera: Bellemerea and Koerberiella. Therefore, the genus concept of Immersaria is revised accordingly and a new lecanorine genus Lecaimmeria is proposed. Furthermore, four new species for Immersaria and seven new species and three new combinations for the new genus Lecaimmeria are proposed. Keys to Immersaria and the new genus Lecaimmeria are provided.

﻿Diversity of Fusarium associated banana wilt in northern Viet Nam
Fusarium is one of the most important fungal genera of plant pathogens that affect the cultivation of a wide range of crops. Agricultural losses caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) directly affect the income, subsistence, and nourishment of thousands of farmers worldwide. For Viet Nam, predictions on the impact of Foc for the future are dramatic, with an estimated loss in the banana production area of 8% within the next five years and up to 71% within the next 25 years. In the current study, we applied a combined morphological-molecular approach to assess the taxonomic identity and phylogenetic position of the different Foc isolates collected in northern Viet Nam. In addition, we aimed to estimate the proportion of the different Fusarium races infecting bananas in northern Viet Nam. The morphology of the isolates was investigated by growing the collected Fusarium isolates on four distinct nutritious media (PDA, SNA, CLA, and OMA). Molecular phylogenetic relationships were inferred by sequencing partial rpb1, rpb2, and tef1a genes and adding the obtained sequences into a phylogenetic framework. Molecular characterization shows that c. 74% of the Fusarium isolates obtained from infected banana pseudostem tissue belong to F. tardichlamydosporum. Compared to F. tardichlamydosporum, F. odoratissimum accounts for c.10% of the Fusarium wilt in northern Viet Nam, demonstrating that Foc TR4 is not yet a dominant strain in the region. Fusarium cugenangense – considered to cause Race 2 infections among bananas – is only found in c. 10% of the tissue material that was obtained from infected Vietnamese bananas. Additionally, one of the isolates cultured from diseased bananas was phylogenetically not positioned within the F. oxysporum species complex (FOSC), but in contrast, fell within the Fusarium fujikuroi species complex (FFSC). As a result, a possible new pathogen for bananas may have been found. Besides being present on several ABB ‘Tay banana’, F. tardichlamydosporum was also derived from infected tissue of a wild Musa lutea, showing the importance of wild bananas as a possible sink for Foc.
["AAA Cavendish"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Banana Cultivation and Research", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food"]

﻿Examination of the generic concept and species boundaries of the genus Erioscyphella (Lachnaceae, Helotiales, Ascomycota) with the proposal of new species and new combinations based on the Japanese materials
The genus Erioscyphella Kirschst., which was morphologically confused with Lachnum, was herein examined. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses using a combined dataset of ITS, LSU, mtSSU, and RPB2 and morphological examinations, Erioscyphella was distinguished from Lachnum and redefined by longer ascospores and the presence of apical amorphous materials and/or resinous materials equipped on hairs. Species boundaries recognized by morphology/ecology and phylogenetic analyses were cross-checked using species delimitation analyses based on DNA barcode sequences downloaded from UNITE, resulting in that species’ taxonomic problems being uncovered. Six new species (E. boninensis, E. insulae, E. otanii, E. papillaris, E. paralushanensis, and E. sasibrevispora) and two new combinations (E. hainanensis and E. sinensis) were proposed.

﻿Taxonomy and phylogeny of the novel rhytidhysteron-like collections in the Greater Mekong Subregion
During our survey into the diversity of woody litter fungi across the Greater Mekong Subregion, three rhytidhysteron-like taxa were collected from dead woody twigs in China and Thailand. These were further investigated based on morphological observations and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of a combined DNA data matrix containing SSU, LSU, ITS, and tef1-α sequence data. A new species of Rhytidhysteron, R. xiaokongense sp. nov. is introduced with its asexual morph, and it is characterized by semi-immersed, subglobose to ampulliform conidiomata, dark brown, oblong to ellipsoidal, 1-septate, conidia, which are granular in appearance when mature. In addition to the new species, two new records from Thailand are reported viz. Rhytidhysteron tectonae on woody litter of Betula sp. (Betulaceae) and Fabaceae sp. and Rhytidhysteron neorufulum on woody litter of Tectona grandis (Lamiaceae). Morphological descriptions, illustrations, taxonomic notes and phylogenetic analyses are provided for all entries.

﻿Three new Xylaria species (Xylariaceae, Xylariales) on fallen leaves from Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park
Three new species of Xylaria on fallen leaves in Hainan Province of China are described and illustrated, based on morphological and molecular evidence. Xylaria hedyosmicola is found on fallen leaves of Hedyosmum orientale and featured by thread-like stromata with a long sterile filiform apex. Phylogenetically, X. hedyosmicola is closely related to an undescribed Xylaria sp. from Hawaii Island, USA and morphologically similar to X. vagans. Xylaria lindericola is found on fallen leaves of Lindera robusta and characterised by its subglobose stromata and a long filiform stipe. It is phylogenetically closely related to X. sicula f. major. Xylaria polysporicola is found on fallen leaves of Polyspora hainanensis, it is distinguished by upright or prostrate stromata and ascospores sometimes with a slimy sheath or non-cellular appendages. Xylaria polysporicola is phylogenetically closely related to X. amphithele and X. ficicola. An identification key to the ten species on fallen leaves in China is given.
["Folicolous fungi"]

﻿ Azygosporus gen. nov., a synapmorphic clade in the family Ancylistaceae
The fungal genus Conidiobolus sensu lato was delimited into four genera based on morphology and phylogeny. However, the taxonomic placement of C. parvus has not been determined until now. Here, we show that C. parvus belongs to a distinct lineage based on mitochondrial (mtSSU) and nuclear (TEF1 and nrLSU) phylogenetic analyses. Phylogenetic analyses further revealed a new species as sister to C. parvus. We identified a synapomorphy uniting these lineages (azygospore production) that was not observed in other allied genera of the family Ancylistaceae, and erected a new genus Azygosporus gen. nov. for this monophyletic group, with a new combination, A. parvus comb. nov. as the type species. Within Azygosporus, the novel species A. macropapillatus sp. nov. was introduced from China based on morphological characteristics and molecular evidence, which is characterized by its prominent basal papilla, in comparison to other closely related species, measuring 7.5–10.0×5.0–10.0 µm. Our study resolved the phylogenetic placement of C. parvus and improved the taxonomic system of the Ancylistaceae family.
["Entomophthorales"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Infectious Diseases and Mycology"]

﻿Two new species of Phallus (Phallaceae) with a white indusium from China
Two new Phallus species, P. cremeo-ochraceus and P. rigidiindusiatus were discovered in southwestern and southern China, respectively. Phallus cremeo-ochraceus is morphologically characterized by its cream to ochraceous receptacle, white to very slightly pinkish indusium, white to pinkish pseudostipe and white to slightly purplish pink volva. Phallus rigidiindusiatus is characterized by a white to yellowish white receptacle, a strongly rigid indusium usually without serrated margin and smaller basidiospores than those of P. serratus. Phylogenetic positions of the two species are located in two independent lineages respectively. Detailed descriptions, color photographs, illustrations and a key to the related species are presented.
["Edible mushrooms"]

﻿Two new Inosperma (Inocybaceae) species with unexpected muscarine contents from tropical China
An accurate identification of poisonous mushrooms and the confirmation of the toxins involved are both of great importance in the treatment of mushroom poisoning incidents. In recent years, cases of mushroom poisoning by Inosperma spp. have been repeatedly reported from tropical Asia. It is urgent to know the real species diversity of Inosperma in this region. In the present study, we proposed two new Inosperma species from tropical Asia, namely I. muscarium and I. hainanense. They were described based on morphology and multilocus phylogeny. Detailed descriptions, color photographs and the discussion with other closely related species of the two new taxa were provided. In addition, a comprehensive muscarine determination of these two new species using ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) approach has been performed. Results showed that these two species were muscarine positive, with a content of 16.03 ± 1.23 g/kg in I. muscarium and a content of 11.87 ± 3.02 g/kg in I. hainanense, much higher than the known species I. virosum. Recovery of muscarine ranged from 93.45% to 97.25%, and the average recovery is 95.56%.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Silymarin and Mushroom Poisoning"]

﻿New species and records of Chapsa (Graphidaceae) in China
We studied the genus Chapsa in China based on morphological characteristics, chemical traits and molecular phylogenetic analysis. One species new to science (C. murioelongata M.Z. Dou & M. Li) and two records new to China were found (C. wolseleyana Weerakoon, Lumbsch & Lücking and C. niveocarpa Mangold). Chapsa murioelongata sp. nov. is characterised by its lobed thalline margin, orange discs with white pruina, clear hymenium, and submuriform and long ascospores. Chapsa wolseleyana was recombined into Astrochapsa based on phenotypic traits. Sequences of this species are for the first time reported here and phylogenetic analyses of three loci (mtSSU, ITS and nuLSU) supported the position of this species within Chapsa. A key for the Chapsa species known in China is provided.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two new species of Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) associated with tree cankers in ﻿the Netherlands
Diaporthe (Diaporthaceae, Diaporthales) is a common fungal genus inhabiting plant tissues as endophytes, pathogens and saprobes. Some species are reported from tree branches associated with canker diseases. In the present study, Diaporthe samples were collected from Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus excelsior and Quercus robur in Utrecht, the Netherlands. They were identified to species based on a polyphasic approach including morphology, pure culture characters, and phylogenetic analyses of a combined matrix of partial ITS, cal, his3, tef1 and tub2 gene regions. As a result, four species (viz. ﻿﻿Diaporthe pseudoalnea sp. nov. from Alnus glutinosa, Diaporthe silvicola sp. nov. from Fraxinus excelsior, D. foeniculacea and D. rudis from Quercus robur) were revealed from tree branches in the Netherlands. Diaporthe pseudoalnea differs from D. eres (syn. D. alnea) by its longer conidiophores. Diaporthe silvicola is distinguished from D. fraxinicola and D. fraxini-angustifoliae by larger alpha conidia.
["Two new taxa"]

Two new lecanoroid lichen species from the forested wetlands of South Korea, with a key for Korean Protoparmeliopsis species
Lecanora parasymmicta Lee & Hur and Protoparmeliopsis crystalliniformis Lee & Hur are described as new lichen species to science from the forested wetlands in southern South Korea. Molecular analyses employing internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and mitochondrial small subunit (mtSSU) sequences strongly support the two lecanoroid species to be distinct in their genera. Lecanora parasymmicta is included in the Lecanora symmicta group. It is morphologically distinguished from Lecanora symmicta (Ach.) Ach., its most similar species, by areolate-rimose thallus, blackish hypothallus, larger apothecia, absence of thalline excipulum from the beginning, narrower paraphyses, larger ascospores, smaller pycnoconidia, and the presence of placodiolic acid. The second new species Protoparmeliopsis crystalliniformis is included in a clade with Protoparmeliopsis bipruinosa (Fink) S.Y. Kondr. and P. nashii (B.D. Ryan) S.Y. Kondr., differs from Protoparmeliopsis ertzii Bungartz & Elix, its most morphologically similar species, by whitish thallus, flat to concave and paler disc, longer ascospores, thallus K+ yellow reaction, presence of atranorin and rhizocarpic acid, and the substrate preference to sandstone or basalt. A key is provided to assist in the identification of Protoparmeliopsis species in Korea.

Two novel species and two new records of Distoseptispora from freshwater habitats in China and Thailand
During investigations into freshwater fungi from the Great Mekong Subregion, four Distoseptispora taxa were collected from China and Thailand. Based on morphological characteristics, and phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS, SSU, TEF1-α, and RPB2 sequence data, two new species Distoseptispora bangkokensis and D. lancangjiangensis are introduced, and two known species D. clematidis and D. thysanolaenae were first reported in freshwater habitat. Illustrations and descriptions of these taxa are provided, along with comparisons with extant taxa in the genus.

Three new Russula species in sect. Ingratae (Russulales, Basidiomycota) from southern China
Three new species of Russulasection Ingratae, found in Guizhou and Jiangsu Provinces, southern China, are proposed: R. straminella, R. subpectinatoides and R. succinea. Photographs, line drawings and detailed morphological descriptions for these species are provided with comparisons against closely-related taxa. Phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region supported the recognition of these specimens as new species. Additionally, R. indocatillus is reported for the first time from China and morphological and phylogenetic data are provided for the Chinese specimens.
["Agaricomycetes"]

Novel Mucor species (Mucoromycetes, Mucoraceae) from northern Thailand
Mucor species are common fast-growing fungi found in soil. Two new species of Mucor and one new geographical record of M. nederlandicus were collected from northern Thailand and are described in this study. Evidence from morphophysiological data and phylogenetic analysis supports the introduction of the new taxa. Phylogenetic analysis based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit of the nuclear ribosomal RNA (LSU) data showed that the new isolates cluster distinctly from other Mucor species with high or maximum bootstrap support. Mucor aseptatophorus is characterized by aseptate sporangiophores, globose columella, resistant and deliquescent sporangia, has sympodial, and monopodial branches and shows growth at 37 °C. It also differs from M. irregularis in having smaller sporangiospores, and larger sporangia. Mucor chiangraiensis has subglobose or slightly elongated globose columella, produces hyaline sporangiospores, and resistant and deliquescent sporangia. Furthermore, this species has wider sporangiophore, smaller sporangia and lower growth than M. nederlandicus. A detailed description of the species and illustrations are provided for the novel species.

Two new calcicolous caloplacoid lichens from South Korea, with a taxonomic key to the species of Huriella and Squamulea
Pyrenodesmia rugosa Lee & Hur and Huriella aeruginosa Lee & Hur are described as new lichen-forming fungi from a calcareous mountain of South Korea. Pyrenodesmia rugosa is distinguishable from Pyrenodesmia micromontana (Frolov, Wilk & Vondrák) Hafellner & Türk, the most similar species, by thicker thallus, rugose areoles, larger apothecia, shorter hymenium, shorter hypothecium and narrower tip cells of paraphyses. Huriella aeruginosa, the second new species, differs from ‘Squamulea’ chelonia Bungartz & Søchting by dark greenish-grey to grey thallus without pruina, gold to yellow-brown epihymenium, larger ascospores and thallus K– and KC– reaction. Molecular analyses employing internal transcribed spacer (ITS), mitochondrial small subunit (mtSSU) and nuclear large subunit ribosomal RNA (LSU) sequences strongly support the two caloplacoid species to be distinct in their genera. A surrogate key is provided to assist in the identification of all 20 taxa in Huriella and Squamulea.

Characterization of Diaporthe species on Camellia oleifera in Hunan Province, with descriptions of two new species
Tea-oil tree (Camellia oleifera Abel.) is an important edible oil woody plant with a planting area over 3,800,000 hectares in southern China. Species of Diaporthe inhabit a wide range of plant hosts as plant pathogens, endophytes and saprobes. At present, relatively little is known about the taxonomy and genetic diversity of Diaporthe on C. oleifera. Here, we conducted an extensive field survey in Hunan Province in China to identify and characterise Diaporthe species associated with tea-oil leaf spots. As a result, eleven isolates of Diaporthe were obtained from symptomatic C. oleifera leaves. These isolates were studied by applying a polyphasic approach including morphological and phylogenetic analyses of partial ITS, cal, his3, tef1 and tub2 gene regions. Two new Diaporthe species (D. camelliae-oleiferae and D. hunanensis) were proposed and described herein, and C. oleifera was revealed to be new host records of D. hubeiensis and D. sojae. This study indicated there is a potential of more undiscovered Diaporthe species from C. oleifera in China.
["Camellia oleifera"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

Ophiostomatoid species associated with pine trees (Pinus spp.) infested by Cryphalus piceae from eastern China, including five new species
Cryphalus piceae attacks various economically important conifers. Similar to other bark beetles, Cr. piceae plays a role as a vector for an assortment of fungi and nematodes. Previously, several ophiostomatoid fungi were isolated from Cr. piceae in Poland and Japan. In the present study, we explored the diversity of ophiostomatoid fungi associated with Cr. piceae infesting pines in the Shandong Province of China. We isolated ophiostomatoid fungi from both galleries and beetles collected from our study sites. These fungal isolates were identified using both molecular and morphological data. In this study, we recovered 175 isolates of ophiostomatoid fungi representing seven species. Ophiostoma ips was the most frequently isolated species. Molecular and morphological data indicated that five ophiostomatoid fungal species recovered were previously undescribed. Thus, we proposed these five novel species as Ceratocystiopsis yantaiensis, C. weihaiensis, Graphilbum translucens, Gr. niveum, and Sporothrix villosa. These new ophiostomatoid fungi add to the increasing number of fungi known from China, and this evidence suggests that numerous novel taxa are awaiting discovery in other forests of China.
["Ceratocystiopsis"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Morphology and molecular study of three new Cordycipitoid fungi and its related species collected from Jilin Province, northeast China
Cordyceps species are notable medicinal fungi in China, which are pathogenic on insects and exhibit high biodiversity in tropical and subtropical regions. Recently, three new Cordyceps species, Cordyceps changchunensis and Cordyceps jingyuetanensis growing on pupae of Lepidoptera and Cordyceps changbaiensis growing on larvae of Lepidoptera, were found in Jilin Province, China and are described, based on morphological and ecological characteristics. These three new species are similar to the Cordyceps militaris group, but are distinctly distinguishable from the known species. Cordyceps changchunensis, characterised by its small and light yellow to orange stromata which is occasionally forked, covered with white mycelium at the base of stipe, globose to ovoid perithecia, is macroscopically similar to Cordyceps militaris. Cordyceps changbaiensis is clearly discriminated from other Cordyceps species by its white to orange and branched stromata, clavate to cylindrical fertile apical portion, immersed and globose to ovoid perithecia. Moreover, unbranched, clavate and orange to light red stromata, almond-shaped to ovoid and immersed perithecia separate Cordyceps jingyuetanensis from other Cordyceps species. nrITS, nrLSU and EF-1α sequences were undertaken and phylogenetic trees, based on Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analysis showed that the three new species clustered with Cordyceps militaris, but formed individual clades, as well as confirmed the results of our morphological study.
["Cordyceps"]
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Morphological and phylogenetic evidence for recognition of two new species of Hyphoderma (Basidiomycota) from southern China, with a key to all Chinese Hyphoderma
Wood-inhabiting fungi play crucial roles as decomposers in forest ecosystems and, in this study, two new wood-inhabiting corticioid fungi, Hyphoderma puerense and H. tenuissimum spp. nov., are proposed, based on a combination of morphological features and molecular evidence. Hyphoderma puerense is characterised by effused basidiomata with smooth to floccose hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae and ellipsoid basidiospores. Hyphoderma tenuissimum is characterised by resupinate basidiomata with tuberculate to minutely-grandinioid hymenial surface, septate cystidia and cylindrical to allantoid basidiospores. Sequences of ITS and nLSU rRNA markers of the studied samples were generated and phylogenetic analyses were performed with Maximum Likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian Inference methods. These analyses showed that the two new species clustered into Hyphoderma, in which H. puerense grouped with H. moniliforme and H. tenuissimum formed a singleton lineage. In addition, an identification key to Chinese Hyphoderma is provided.
["Corticioid fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Three new species of Rhytidhysteron (Dothideomycetes, Ascomycota) from Mexico
The genus Rhytidhysteron is characterised by forming navicular to apothecial hysterothecia, exposing the green, yellow, orange, red, vinaceous or black colours of the hymenium which generally releases pigments in the presence of KOH. The exciple is smooth or striated, the asci bitunicate and ascospores have 1–5 transverse septa. To date, twenty-six Rhytidhysteron species have been described from the Tropics. The present study aims to describe three new species in the Neotropics of Mexico based on molecular methods and morphological features. Illustrations and a taxonomic key are provided for all known species of this genus. Rhytidhysteron cozumelense from the Isla Cozumel Biosphere Reserve, R. esperanzae from the Sierra Juárez, Oaxaca and R. mesophilum from the Sierra Madre Oriental, Hidalgo are described as new species. With the present study, the number of species of Rhytidhysteron known from Mexico is now increased to eight.
["Hysteriaceae"]

Phylogenetic and morphological analyses of Coniochaeta isolates recovered from Inner Mongolia and Yunnan revealed three new endolichenic fungal species
Lichens are the result of a symbiotic interaction between fungi (mycobionts) and algae (phycobionts). Aside from mycobionts, lichen thalli can also contain non-lichenised fungal species, such as lichenicolous and endolichenic fungi. For this study, three surveys were conducted in China’s Yunnan Province and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region between 2017 and 2020. Several samples of four lichen species were collected during these surveys: Candelaria fibrosa, Flavoparmelia caperata, Flavopunctelia flaventior and Ramalina sinensis. Six isolates of Coniochaeta were recovered from these four lichen species. The phylogenetic and morphological analyses revealed that two of these isolates were previously identified species, Coniochaeta velutinosa and C. acaciae. Those remaining were from potentially unknown species. We used molecular and morphological data to describe these previously-unknown species as Coniochaeta fibrosae sp. nov., C. mongoliae sp. nov. and C. sinensis sp. nov. The findings of this study significantly improve our understanding of the variety and habitat preferences of Coniochaeta in China and globally.
["Coniochaetaceae"]

Two new psathyrelloid species of Coprinopsis (Agaricales, Psathyrellaceae) from China
In this study, Coprinopsis jilinensis and Coprinopsis pusilla were introduced, based on their morphological characteristics, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit ribosomal (LSU) region sequences of nrDNA. These new psathyrelloid species were found in Jilin Province, China. Coprinopsis jilinensis has brown pileus, utriform pleurocystidia, brown, smooth, dextrinoid basidiospores and tiny pore. It mainly grows on humus. Coprinopsis pusilla has small basidiomata, greyish-white pileus, thick and distinct veil at edges, subcolourless and verrucose basidiospores. It is poreless and it grows on the decaying wood of broad-leaved trees. Both of them belong to the C. sect. Melanthinae. A supplementary description of C. sect. Melanthinae was given in combination with the newly-discovered taxa and an identification key to the fourteen psathyrelloid species of Coprinopsis is provided. Coprinopsis sect. Canocipes and C. sect. Quartoconatae were evaluated and the phylogenetic position of the psathyrelloid species of Coprinopsis was discussed. Psathyrella subagraria, as a confusing species, was also discussed in this study.

New species of Yamadazyma from rotting wood in China
Yamadazyma is one of the largest genera in the family Debaryomycetaceae (Saccharomycetales, Saccharomycetes) with species mainly found in rotting wood, insects and their resulting frass, but also recovered from flowers, leaves, fruits, tree bark, mushrooms, sea water, minerals, and the atmosphere. In the present study, several strains obtained from rotting wood in Henan and Yunnan Provinces of China were isolated. Based on morphology and a molecular phylogeny of the rDNA internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) and the D1/D2 domain of the large subunit (LSU) rDNA, these strains were identified as three new species: Yamadazyma luoyangensis, Y. ovata and Y. paraaseri; and three previously described species, Y. insectorum, Y. akitaensis, and Y. olivae. The three new species are illustrated and their morphology and phylogenetic relationships with other Yamadazyma species are discussed. Our results indicate a high undiscovered diversity of Yamadazyma spp. inhabiting rotting wood in China.
["Debaryomycetaceae"]

A taxonomic study of Nemania from China, with six new species
During an investigation of Xylariaceae from 2019 to 2020, isolates representing eight Nemania (Xylariacese) species were collected from Yunnan, Guizhou and Hainan Provinces in China. Morphological and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses, based on combined ITS, α-actin, rpb2 and β-tubulin sequences, confirmed that six of them are new to science, viz. Nemania camelliae, N. changningensis, N. cyclobalanopsina, N. feicuiensis, N. lishuicola and N. rubi; one is a new record (N. caries) for China and one is a known species (N. diffusa). Morphological descriptions and illustrations of all species are detailed. In addition, the characteristics of Nemania are summarised and prevailing contradictions in generic concepts are discussed.
["phylogeny"]

New contributions to Diatrypaceae from karst areas in China
In this study, fungal specimens of the family Diatrypaceae were collected from karst areas in Guizhou, Hainan and Yunnan Provinces, China. Morpho-molecular analyses confirmed that these new collections comprise a new genus Pseudodiatrype, three new species (Diatrype lancangensis, Diatrypella pseudooregonensis and Eutypa cerasi), a new combination (Diatrypella oregonensis), two new records (Allodiatrype thailandica and Diatrypella vulgaris) from China and two other known species (Neoeutypella baoshanensis and Paraeutypella citricola). The new taxa are introduced, based on multi-gene phylogenetic analyses (ITS, β-tubulin), as well as morphological analyses. The new genus Pseudodiatrype is characterised by its wart-like stromata with 5–20 ascomata immersed in one stroma and the endostroma composed of thin black outer and inner layers of large white cells with thin, powdery, yellowish cells. These characteristics separate this genus from two similar genera Allodiatrype and Diatrype. Based on morphological as well as phylogenetic analyses, Diatrype lancangensis is introduced as a new species of Diatrype. The stromata of Diatrype lancangensis are similar to those of D. subundulata and D. undulate, but the ascospores are larger. Based on phylogenetic analyses, Diatrype oregonensis is transferred to the genus Diatrypella as Diatrypella oregonensis while Diatrypella pseudooregonensis is introduced as a new species of Diatrypella with 8 spores in an ascus. In addition, multi-gene phylogenetic analyses show that Eutypa cerasi is closely related to E. lata, but the ascomata and asci of Eutypa cerasi are smaller. The polyphyletic nature of some genera of Diatrypaceae has led to confusion in the classification of the family, thus we discuss whether the number of ascospores per asci can still be used as a basis for classification.
["Five novel taxa"]

Greetings from belowground: two new species of truffles in the genus Pachyphlodes (Pezizaceae, Pezizales) from México
Pachyphlodes is a lineage of ectomycorrhizal, hypogeous, sequestrate ascomycete fungi native to temperate and subtropical forests in the Northern Hemisphere. Pachyphlodes species form ectomycorrhizae mainly with Fagales hosts. Here we describe two new species of Pachyphlodes, P. brunnea, and P. coalescens, based on morphological and phylogenetic analysis. Pachyphlodes brunnea is distributed in the states of Tamaulipas and Nuevo León in northern México, occurring with Quercus and Juglans species. It is characterized by its dark brown peridium, white gleba, and spores with capitate columns. Pachyphlodes coalescens is distributed in the states of Michoacán and Tlaxcala in central and southwestern México co-occurring with Quercus and is distinguished by its reddish-brown peridium, light yellow gleba, and spore ornamentation. Both species, along with P. marronina, constitute the Marronina clade. This clade contains North American species characterized by a brown peridium and spores ornamented with capitate spines to coalesced spine tips that form a partial perispore.

Morphological and phylogenetic evidence for two new species of Russula subg. Heterophyllidia from Guangdong Province of China
Two new species of Russula subg. Heterophyllidia from Guangdong Province of China were described and illustrated based on morphological characters, and their identity supported by molecular phylogeny. R. luofuensis is morphologically characterized by a grayish yellow to brownish orange pileus center with a purplish gray to grayish magenta margin, a surface that is cracked and broken into small golden-brown patches, subglobose to broadly ellipsoid basidiospores with warts fused in short or long chains and a suprapellis composed of hyphal extremities with inflated, ellipsoid or globose cells and attenuated terminal cell. R. subbubalina is distinguished by the blanched almond to dark salmon pileus that is cracked with age, subglobose to broadly ellipsoid basidiospores with wart fused in short or long chains and frequently connected by line connections, a suprapellis with hyphal ends composed of inflated or ellipsoid cells and attenuated terminal cell, and pileocystidia that are mainly clavate and sometimes with round or ellipsoid appendage. The phylogenetic analyses based on ITS-nrLSU-mtSSU-TEF1 dataset were performed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian analysis. In terms of morphological features and molecular data, the former species belongs to subsect. Virescentinae, whereas the latter comes under subsect. Heterophyllinae.
["Luofu Mountain"]

Refining the picture: new records to the lichen biota of Italy
Based on the analysis of both historical and recent collections, this paper reports an annotated list of taxa which are new to the lichen biota of Italy or of its administrative regions. Specimens were identified using a dissecting and a compound microscope; routine chemical spot tests and standardized thin-layer chromatography (TLC or HPTLC). The list includes 225 records of 153 taxa. Twenty taxa are new to Italy, the others are new to one or more administrative regions, with 15 second records and 5 third records for Italy. Some of the species belong to recently-described taxa, others are poorly known, sterile or ephemeral lichens which were largely overlooked in Italy. Several species are actually rare, either because of the rarity of their habitats (e.g. old-growth forests), or because in Italy they are at the margins of their bioclimatic distribution. The picture of the lichen biota of Italy has now new pixels, but its grain is still coarse. Further analysis of historical collections, increased efforts in the exploration of some areas, and the taxonomic revision of critical groups are still necessary to provide more complete distributional data for new biogeographic hypotheses, taxonomic and ecological research, and biodiversity conservation.

Novel saprobic Hermatomyces species (Hermatomycetaceae, Pleosporales) from China (Yunnan Province) and Thailand
During our survey of the diversity of woody litter fungi in China and Thailand, three Hermatomyces species were collected from dead woody twigs of Dipterocarpus sp. (Dipterocarpaceae) and Ehretia acuminata (Boraginaceae). Both morphology and multigene analyses revealed two taxa as new species (Hermatomyces turbinatus and H. jinghaensis) and the remaining collections as new records of H. sphaericus. Hermatomyces turbinatus is characterized by 1) dimorphic conidia, having circular to oval lenticular conidia and 2) turbinate conidia consisting of two columns with two septa composed of 2–3 cells in each column. Hermatomyces jinghaensis is characterized by dimorphic conidia, having circular to oval lenticular conidia and clavate or subcylindrical to cylindrical conidia and consisting of one or two columns with 6–8 cells in each column. Phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS, tub2, tef1-α and rpb2 sequence data supports the placement of these new taxa within Hermatomycetaceae with high statistical support.

Two new species of Hirsutella (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Sordariomycetes) that are parasitic on lepidopteran insects from China
Hirsutella are globally distributed entomopathogenic fungi that offer important economic applications in biological control and biomedicine. Hirsutella was suppressed in favour of Ophiocordyceps affected by the ending of dual nomenclature for pleomorphic fungi in 2011. Currently, Hirsutella has been resurrected as a genus under Ophiocordycipitaceae. In this study, we introduce two new species of Hirsutella, based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Hirsutella flava and H. kuankuoshuiensis are pathogenic on different species of larval Lepidoptera in China. Hirsutella flava primarily differs from related species by its awl-shaped base; long and narrow neck, 24–40.8 × 2.2–2.5 μm; long and narrow cymbiform or fusoid conidia, 6.5–10 × 2.1–4.3 μm. Hirsutella kuankuoshuiensis has two types of phialides and distinctive 9.9–12.6 × 2.7–4.5 μm, clavate or botuliform conidia. The distinctions amongst the new species and phylogenetic relationships with other Hirsutella species are discussed.
["entomopathogenic fungi"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Four new species in the Tremella fibulifera complex (Tremellales, Basidiomycota)
Samples of species close to Tremella fibulifera from China and Brazil are studied, and T. fibulifera is confirmed as a species complex including nine species. Five known species (T. cheejenii, T. fibulifera s.s., T. “neofibulifera”, T. lloydiae-candidae and T. olens) and four new species (T. australe, T. guangxiensis, T. latispora and T. subfibulifera) in the complex are recognized based on morphological characteristics, molecular evidence, and geographic distribution. Sequences of eight species of the complex were included in the phylogenetic analyses because T. olens lacks molecular data. The phylogenetic analyses were performed by a combined sequence dataset of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and the partial nuclear large subunit rDNA (nLSU), and a combined sequence dataset of the ITS, partial nLSU, the small subunit mitochondrial rRNA gene (mtSSU), the translation elongation factor 1-α (TEF1), the largest and second largest subunits of RNA polymerase II (RPB1 and RPB2). The eight species formed eight independent lineages with robust support in phylogenies based on both datasets. Illustrated description of the six species including Tremella fibulifera s.s., T. “neofibulifera” and four new species, and discussions with their related species, are provided. A table of the comparison of the important characteristics of nine species in the T. fibulifera complex and a key to the whitish species in Tremella s.s. are provided.
["Multi-gene"]

Two new toxic yellow Inocybe species from China: morphological characteristics, phylogenetic analyses and toxin detection
Some species of Inocybe s. str. caused neurotoxic poisoning after consumption around the world. However, there are a large number of species in this genus that have not been studied for their toxicity or toxin content. In this study, we report two new toxic yellow Inocybe s. str. species from China based on morphological characteristics, phylogenetic analyses and toxin detection. Among the two species, Inocybe squarrosolutea is reported as a newly recorded species of China. We also describe a new species, I. squarrosofulva, which is morphologically similar to I. squarrosolutea. The new species is characterized by its ochraceous squarrose pileus, distinctly annulate cortina on the stipe, nodulose basidiospores and thick-walled pleurocystidia. Muscarine in the fruitbodies was detected by UPLC–MS/MS, the content in I. squarrosolutea and I. squarrosofulva were 136.4 ± 25.4 to 1683.0 ± 313 mg/kg dry weight and 31.2 ± 5.8 to 101.8 ± 18.9 mg/kg dry weight, respectively.
["Inocybaceae"]

Unravelling unexplored diversity of cercosporoid fungi (Mycosphaerellaceae, Mycosphaerellales, Ascomycota) in tropical Africa
Cercosporoid fungi (Mycosphaerellaceae, Mycosphaerellales, Ascomycota) are one of the largest and most diverse groups of hyphomycetes causing a wide range of diseases of economically important plants as well as of plants in the wild. Although more than 6000 species are known for this group, the documentation of this fungal group is far from complete. Especially in the tropics, the diversity of cercosporoid fungi is poorly known. The present study aims to identify and characterise cercosporoid fungi collected on host plants belonging to Fabaceae in Benin, West Africa. Information on their morphology, host species and DNA sequence data (18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, ITS and tef1) is provided. DNA sequence data were obtained by a simple and non-culture-based method for DNA isolation which has been applied for cercosporoid fungi for the first time in the context of the present study. Among the loci used for the phylogenetic analysis, tef1 provided the best resolution together with the multigene dataset. Species delimitation in many cases, however, was only possible by combining molecular sequence data with morphological characteristics. Based on forty specimens recently collected in Benin, 18 species are presented with morphological descriptions, illustrations and sequence data. Among these, six species in the genus Cercospora and two species in Pseudocercospora are proposed as species new to science. The newly described species are Cercospora (C.) beninensis on Crotalaria macrocalyx, C. parakouensis on Desmodium tortuosum, C. rhynchophora on Vigna unguiculata, C. vignae-subterraneae on Vigna subterranea, C. tentaculifera on Vigna unguiculata, C. zorniicola on Zornia glochidiata, Pseudocercospora sennicola on Senna occidentalis and Pseudocercospora tabei on Vigna unguiculata. Eight species of cercosporoid fungi are reported for Benin for the first time, three of them, namely C. cf. canscorina, C. cf. fagopyri and C. phaseoli-lunati are new for West Africa. The presence of two species of cercosporoid fungi on Fabaceae previously reported from Benin, namely Nothopassalora personata and Passalora arachidicola, is confirmed.
["Benin"]

Soil fungal communities of ectomycorrhizal dominated woodlands across West Africa
Forests and woodlands in the West African Guineo-Sudanian transition zone contain many tree species that form symbiotic interactions with ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi. These fungi facilitate plant growth by increasing nutrient and water uptake and include many fruiting body-forming fungi, including some edible mushrooms. Despite their importance for ecosystem functioning and anthropogenic use, diversity and distribution of ECM fungi is severely under-documented in West Africa. We conducted a broad regional sampling across five West African countries using soil eDNA to characterize the ECM as well as the total soil fungal community in gallery forests and savanna woodlands dominated by ECM host tree species. We subsequently sequenced the entire ITS region and much of the LSU region to infer a phylogeny for all detected soil fungal species. Utilizing a long read sequencing approach allows for higher taxonomic resolution by using the full ITS region, while the highly conserved LSU gene allows for a more accurate higher-level assignment of species hypotheses, including species without ITS-based taxonomy assignments. We detect no overall difference in species richness between gallery forests and woodlands. However, additional gallery forest plots and more samples per plot would have been needed to firmly conclude this pattern. Based on both abundance and richness, species from the families Russulaceae and Inocybaceae dominate the ECM fungal soil communities across both vegetation types. The community structure of both total soil fungi and ECM fungi was significantly influenced by vegetation types and showed strong correlation within plots. However, we found no significant difference in fungal community structure between samples collected adjacent to different host tree species within each plot. We conclude that within plots, the fungal community is structured more by the overall ECM host plant community than by the species of the individual host tree that each sample was collected from.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Phylogeny and taxonomy of Catenularia and similar fungi with catenate conidia
The genus Catenularia (Chaetosphaeriaceae) was reviewed, and its relationships with morphologically similar fungi were evaluated using molecular and morphological data. Eleven species are accepted, four of which have been verified with molecular DNA data. The correct epithet ‘cupulifera’ is proposed for the type species C. cupulifera comb. nov. Four other combinations are proposed, namely C. catenulata comb. nov., C. elsikii comb. nov., C. minor comb. nov. and C. novae-zelandiae comb. nov. Catenularia is an uncommon fungus inhabiting mainly decaying bark, wood and bamboo culms of various hosts and shows a widespread geographical distribution. It is circumscribed for fungi with mononematous, macronematous, simple conidiophores with terminal monophialides, usually accompanied with capitate hyphae. The conidia are aseptate, brown, cuneiform to rounded-obconic with an angular outline, adhering in chains. The diagnostic values of taxonomic characteristics of capitate hyphae and conidia (i.e. colour, shape in transverse section, setulae and formation) at the generic level were evaluated. An account of morphology, taxonomy and phylogeny of species accepted in Catenularia is provided. Based on ribosomal DNA sequences, Chalarodes obpyramidata sp. nov., characterised by catenate, angular, hyaline conidia with apical setulae, is revealed as closely related to Catenularia. The new genus Fuscocatenula gen. nov. is proposed for catenularia-like fungi having pigmented conidia with protracted maturation and round outline, with two species accepted, F. submersa comb. nov. and F. variegata comb. nov. A new species Nawawia antennata sp. nov. is introduced and Nawawia is compared with morphologically similar taxa.
["angular conidia"]

Two new rare species of Candolleomyces with pale spores from China
Most species of Candolleomyces have brown or dark brown spores. Although pale-spored members are rare in the genus we frequently collected two such species from many Provinces during our investigations in subtropical China from 2016–2020. As revealed by morphological characterisation and multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS LSU β-tub and tef-1α) these species which we have named C. subcacao and C. subminutisporus are unique and distinct from known taxa. In addition a new combination C. cladii-marisci is proposed on the basis of ITS sequence analysis of the type specimen. Detailed descriptions colour photos illustrations and a key to related species are presented.
["Basidiomycete"]

A new genus and four new species in the Psathyrella s.l. clade from China
Based on traditional morphological and phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU, tef-1α and β-tub) of psathyrelloid specimens collected from China, four new species are here described: Heteropsathyrella macrocystidia, Psathyrella amygdalinospora, P. piluliformoides, and P. truncatisporoides. H. macrocystidia forms a distinct lineage and groups together with Cystoagaricus, Kauffmania, and Typhrasa in the Psathyrella s.l. clade, based on the Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analyses. Thus, the monospecific genus Heteropsathyrella gen. nov. is introduced for the single species. Detailed descriptions, colour photos, and illustrations are presented in this paper.

Diversity of Plectosphaerella within aquatic plants from southwest China, with P. endophytica and P. sichuanensis spp. nov.
Members of Plectosphaerella inhabit different substrates, including plants, soil and insects, and most species are pathogens causing large losses in agriculture. During a survey of endophytic fungi in aquatic plants in southwest China, 112 strains of Plectosphaerella were isolated, representing two new species, P. endophytica sp. nov. and P. sichuanensis sp. nov., as well as two known species, P. cucumerina and P. pauciseptata. The novel taxa are described and illustrated here using combined morphological and multi-locus phylogenetic (LSU-ITS-TEF-1α-TUB2) analyses. Our result revealed Plectosphaerella species inhabiting within aquatic plants in southwest China, and the separation frequency of each species was presented.
["Endophytic fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycotoxins in Agriculture and Food", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Brahmaculus gen. nov. (Leotiomycetes, Chlorociboriaceae)
A second genus in Chlorociboriaceae is described here as Brahmaculus gen. nov. Macroscopically distinctive, all species have bright yellow apothecia with several apothecial cups held on short branches at the tip of a long stipe. The genus is widely distributed across the Southern Hemisphere; the four new species described here include two from Chile (B. magellanicus sp. nov., B. osornoensis sp. nov.) and one each from New Zealand (B. moonlighticus sp. nov.) and Australia (B. packhamiae sp. nov.). They differ from species referred to Chlorociboria, the only other genus in Chlorociboriaceae, in their terrestrial habitat and ascomata that are noticeably more hairy than the known Chlorociboria species, most of which have apothecia with short, macroscopically indistinct hair-like elements. Based on our analyses, Chlorociboria as accepted here is paraphyletic. Additional study is needed to clarify where alternative, monophyletic generic limits should be drawn and how these genera may be recognised morphologically. Also described here are three new Chlorociboria spp. from New Zealand (C. metrosideri sp. nov., C. solandri sp. nov., C. subtilis sp. nov.), distinctive in developing on dead leaves rather than wood and in two of them not forming the green pigmentation characteristic of most Chlorociboria species. New Zealand specimens previously incorrectly identified as Chlorociboria argentinensis are provided with a new name, C. novae-zelandiae sp. nov.
["Chlorociboria"]

Multi-gene phylogenetic evidence indicates that Pleurodesmospora belongs in Cordycipitaceae (Hypocreales, Hypocreomycetidae) and Pleurodesmospora lepidopterorum sp. nov. on pupa from China
A new species, Pleurodesmospora lepidopterorum, isolated from a pupa, is introduced. Morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses based on multigene datasets (ITS+RPB1+RPB2+TEF) support the establishment of the new species. Pleurodesmospora lepidopterorum is distinguished from P. coccorum by its longer conidiogenous pegs located in the terminal or lateral conidiophores, and smaller subglobose or ellipsoidal conidia. A combined dataset of RPB1, RPB2, and TEF confirmed the taxonomic placement of Pleurodesmospora in Cordycipitaceae for the first time.
["Insect"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Infectious Diseases and Mycology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A new clitocyboid genus Spodocybe and a new subfamily Cuphophylloideae in the family Hygrophoraceae (Agaricales)
Phylogenetically, the genera Cuphophyllus, Ampulloclitocybe and Cantharocybe are treated as basal in the family Hygrophoraceae, despite weak support. However, the exact phylogenetic positions of the three genera have remained unresolved, and taxa related to these genera are poorly known. In this study, a new clitocyboid genus Spodocybe was proposed based on multigenic phylogenetic inference datasets and morphological evidence. The analyses of ITS as well as two combined datasets ITS-nrLSU-rpb2 and ITS-nrLSU-rpb1-rpb2-tef1-α-atp6 supported that (1) Spodocybe formed a well-supported monophyletic clade; and (2) sisters Spodocybe and Ampulloclitocybe, along with Cantharocybe and Cuphophyllus also formed a monophyletic lineage, as sister to the rest of the Hygrophoraceae. Meanwhile, two new species, namely S. rugosiceps and S. bispora, from southwestern China, were documented and illustrated. These results support the new proposed genus Spodocybe, and that Spodocybe, Ampulloclitocybe, Cantharocybe and Cuphophyllus should be retained in the Hygrophoraceae as a new subfamily Cuphophylloideae.
["Ampulloclitocybe"]

Phylogeny and diversity of Bjerkandera (Polyporales, Basidiomycota), including four new species from South America and Asia
Four new species of Bjerkandera, viz. B. ecuadorensis, B. fulgida, B. minispora, and B. resupinata spp. nov., are described from tropical America and Asia. B. ecuadorensis is characterised by dark grey to black pore surface, a monomitic hyphal system, hyaline to yellowish-brown generative hyphae, and ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 3.9–4.5 × 2.7–3 μm. B. fulgida is distinguished from the other species in the genus by clay buff to pale brown and shiny pore surface. B. minispora is characterised by white tomentose pore mouth and small basidiospores measuring 3.1–4.2 × 2–2.8 μm. B. resupinata is characterised by resupinate basidiomata, pinkish buff to pale brownish pore surface, and ellipsoid to broadly ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 4.5–6 × 3.2–4.1 µm. All these new species grow on angiosperm trunks or rotten wood, and cause a white rot. The closely related taxa to four new species are discussed. An identification key to the ten accepted species of Bjerkandera is provided, and a phylogeny comprising all known Bjerkandera species is provided.
["Phylogeny"]

First record of the rare genus Typhrasa (Psathyrellaceae, Agaricales) from China with description of two new species
Typhrasa is a rare genus that comprises two species and that has previously been reported only from Europe and North America. The present study expands the geographical scope of the genus by describing two new species – T. polycystis and T. rugocephala – from subtropical China. The new species are supported by morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses (ITS, LSU and tef-1α). The new species have very similar morphological characteristics and are 98% similar in their ITS region. However, T. rugocephala has two types of long gills at the same time, rarely fusiform pleurocystidia with rostrum. Detailed descriptions, colour photos, illustrations and a key to related species are presented in this paper.

A survey of Hebeloma (Hymenogastraceae) in Greenland
This is the first study exclusively dedicated to the study of Hebeloma in Greenland. It is based on almost 400 collections, the great majority of which were collected by three of the co-authors over a period of 40 years and were lodged in the fungarium of the Natural History Museum in Copenhagen. The material was identified using molecular and morphological methods. In total, 28 species were recognized, 27 belonging to three sections, H. sects Hebeloma, Denudata and Velutipes. One species sampled was new to science and is here described as H. arcticum. For all species, a description, a distribution map within Greenland and macro and microphotographs are presented. A key is provided for the 28 species. The distribution of species within Greenland is discussed. The findings are placed in the context of studies of arctic and alpine Hebeloma from other parts of the world where comparable data exist. Notably, H. grandisporum, H. louiseae and H. islandicum, previously only known from Romania, Svalbard, Iceland or Norway, respectively, have been found in Greenland. The latter is also the only species encountered that does not belong to any of the above sections. Hebeloma excedens and H. colvinii – for the latter we here publish the first modern description – are to date only known from continental North America and now Greenland.
["Arctic distribution"]

Micromelanconis kaihuiae gen. et sp. nov., a new diaporthalean fungus from Chinese chestnut branches in southern China
Melanconis-like fungi are distributed in several families of Diaporthales, mainly Juglanconidaceae, Melanconidaceae, Melanconiellaceae and Pseudomelanconidaceae. A new Melanconis-like genus of Pseudomelanconidaceae was discovered on branches of Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima) in southern China, which was confirmed by both morphology and phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS, LSU, tef1a and rpb2 sequences. The new genus Micromelanconis is characterized by two types of conidia from natural substrate and manual media of PDA, respectively. Conidia from Chinese chestnut branches are pale brown, ellipsoid, multiguttulate, aseptate with hyaline sheath. While conidia from PDA plates are pale brown, long dumbbell-shaped, narrow at the middle and wide at both ends, multiguttulate, aseptate, and also with hyaline sheath. All Pseudomelanconidaceae species were only reported on tree branches in China until now. More interesting taxa may be discovered if detailed surveys on tree-inhabiting fungi are carried out in East Asia in the future.
["Castanea mollissima"]

Novel taxa and species diversity of Cordyceps sensu lato (Hypocreales, Ascomycota) developing on wireworms (Elateroidea and Tenebrionoidea, Coleoptera)
Species of Cordyceps sensu lato (Hypocreales, Sordariomycetes) have always attracted much scientific attention for their abundant species diversity, important medicinal values and biological control applications. The insect superfamilies Elateroidea and Tenebrionoidea are two large groups of Coleoptera and their larvae are generally called wireworms. Most wireworms inhabit humid soil or fallen wood and are often infected with Cordyceps s.l. However, the species diversity of Cordyceps s.l. on Elateroidea and Tenebrionoidea is poorly known. In the present work, we summarise taxonomic information of 63 Cordyceps s.l. species that have been reported as pathogens of wireworms. We review their hosts and geographic distributions and provide taxonomic notes for species. Of those, 60 fungal species are accepted as natural pathogens of wireworms and three species (Cordyceps militaris, Ophiocordyceps ferruginosa and O. variabilis) are excluded. Two new species, O. borealis from Russia (Primorsky Krai) and O. spicatus from China (Guizhou), are described and compared with their closest allies. Polycephalomyces formosus is also described because it is reported as a pathogen of wireworms for the first time. Phylogeny was reconstructed from a combined dataset, comprising SSU, LSU and TEF1-α gene sequences. The results, presented in this study, support the establishment of the new species and confirm the identification of P. formosus.
["Two new species"]

Notes on Trochila (Ascomycota, Leotiomycetes), with new species and combinations
Studies of Trochila (Leotiomycetes, Helotiales, Cenangiaceae) are scarce. Here, we describe two new species based on molecular phylogenetic data and morphology. Trochila bostonensis was collected at the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, Massachusetts. It was found on the stem of Asclepias syriaca, representing the first report of any Trochila species from a plant host in the family Apocynaceae. Trochila urediniophila is associated with the uredinia of the rust fungus Cerotelium fici. It was discovered during a survey for rust hyperparasites conducted at the Arthur Fungarium, in a single sample from 1912 collected in Trinidad. Macro- and micromorphological descriptions, illustrations, and molecular phylogenetic analyses are presented. The two new species are placed in Trochila with high support in both our six-locus (SSU, ITS, LSU, rpb1, rpb2, tef1) and two-locus (ITS, LSU) phylogenetic reconstructions. In addition, two species are combined in Trochila: Trochila colensoi (formerly placed in Pseudopeziza) and T. xishuangbanna (originally described as the only species in Calycellinopsis). This study reveals new host plant families, a new ecological strategy, and a new country record for the genus Trochila. Finally, our work emphasizes the importance of specimens deposited in biological collections such as fungaria.

Three new species of Inosperma (Agaricales, Inocybaceae) from Tropical Africa
Here, we describe three new species of Inosperma from Tropical Africa: Inosperma africanum, I. bulbomarginatum and I. flavobrunneum. Morphological and molecular data show that these species have not been described before, hence need to be described as new. The phylogenetic placements of these species were inferred, based on molecular evidence from sequences of 28S and RPB2. Additional analysis using ITS dataset shows interspecific variation between each species. Phylogenetic analyses resolve I. flavobrunneum in Old World Tropical clade 1 with weak support, I. bulbomarginatum is sister of Old World Tropical clade 1 and I. africanum is indicated as sister to the rest of Inosperma. Complete description and illustrations, including photographs and line drawings, are presented for each species. A new combination of Inocybe shawarensis into Inosperma is also proposed.
["Ectomycorrhizal"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Banana Cultivation and Research"]

Hebeloma in the Malay Peninsula: Masquerading within Psathyrella
In 1994 Corner published five new species within the genus Psathyrella, all having been collected on the Malay Peninsula between 1929 and 1930. Three of these species belong to the genus Hebeloma and with their vinaceous colored lamellae and spore print, when fresh, they belong to H. sect. Porphyrospora. Of these three species, only one, P. flavidifolia, was validly published and thus we herewith recombine it as H. flavidifolium. The other two species, P. splendens and P. verrucispora, are synonyms of H. parvisporum and H. lactariolens, respectively. We also describe a new Malayan species, H. radicans, which also belongs to H. sect. Porphyrospora. These findings confirm the western Pacific Rim as a diversity hotspot for H. sect. Porphyrospora. The records described within this paper, represent the first recognition that the genus Hebeloma, and indeed that members of the ectomycorrhizal Hymenogastraceae, are present on the Malay Peninsula.
["Anamika"]

New species and records of Diaporthe from Jiangxi Province, China
Diaporthe species have often been reported as important plant pathogens, saprobes and endophytes on a wide range of plant hosts. Although several Diaporthe species have been recorded, little is known about species able to infect forest trees in Jiangxi Province. Hence, extensive surveys were recently conducted in Jiangxi Province, China. A total of 24 isolates were identified and analysed using comparisons of DNA sequence data for the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), calmodulin (cal), histone H3 (his3), partial translation elongation factor-1α (tef1) and β-tubulin (tub2) gene regions, as well as their morphological features. Results revealed five novel taxa, D. bauhiniae, D. ganzhouensis, D. schimae, D. verniciicola, D. xunwuensis spp. nov. and three known species, D. apiculatum, D. citri and D. multigutullata.
["DNA phylogeny"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Diversity of the genus Sugiyamaella and description of two new species from rotting wood in China
Species of the genus Sugiyamaella (Trichomonascaceae, Saccharomycetales), found in rotting wood in China, were investigated using morphology and the molecular phylogeny of a combined ITS and nrLSU dataset. Nine taxa were collected in China: two were new species (viz. Sugiyamaella chuxiong sp. nov. and S. yunanensis sp. nov.) and seven were known species, S. americana, S. ayubii, S. novakii, S. paludigena, S. valenteae, S. valdiviana and S. xiaguanensis. The two new species are illustrated and their morphology and phylogenetic relationships with other Sugiyamaella species are discussed. Our results indicate a potentially great diversity of Sugiyamaella spp. inhabiting rotting wood in China just waiting to be discovered.
["Phylogeny"]

Phialolunulospora vermispora (Chaetosphaeriaceae, Sordariomycetes), a novel asexual genus and species from freshwater in southern China
The asexual taxon Phialolunulospora vermispora gen. et sp. nov., collected from submerged dicotyledonous leaves in Hainan, China, is described and illustrated herein. Phialolunulospora gen. nov. is characterized by macronematous, semimacronematous, septate and pigmented conidiophores and acrogenous, long lunate, vermiform to sigmoid, hyaline conidia with an eccentric basal appendage. Complete sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and partial sequences of nuclear large subunits ribosomal DNA (LSU) genes are provided. Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS and LSU sequences revealed its placement in the Chaetosphaeriaceae. The new fungus is compared with morphologically similar genera.

New Cantharellus species from South Korea
In this third contribution involving new Cantharellus species from South Korea, two new species are introduced. In addition, we document a first report of the recently described Japanese Cantharellus anzutake outside of Japan based on identical ITS sequence data. Cantharellus citrinus sp. nov. is introduced as a new member of subgenus Cinnabarini, to which the closely related Korean C. albovenosus and Chinese C. phloginus also belong. Cantharellus curvatus sp. nov. is introduced as a new member of subgenus Parvocantharellus, in which the Korean C. koreanus was recently placed. The respective placements of the new taxa are significantly supported by a phylogenetic analysis of sequences from the transcription elongation factor (tef-1).

The insights into the evolutionary history of Translucidithyrium: based on a newly-discovered species
During the field studies, a Translucidithyrium-like taxon was collected in Xishuangbanna of Yunnan Province, during an investigation into the diversity of microfungi in the southwest of China. Morphological observations and phylogenetic analysis of combined LSU and ITS sequences revealed that the new taxon is a member of the genus Translucidithyrium and it is distinct from other species. Therefore, Translucidithyrium chinense sp. nov. is introduced here. The Maximum Clade Credibility (MCC) tree from LSU rDNA of Translucidithyrium and related species indicated the divergence time of existing and new species of Translucidithyrium was crown age at 16 (4–33) Mya. Combining the estimated divergence time, paleoecology and plate tectonic movements with the corresponding geological time scale, we proposed a hypothesis that the speciation (estimated divergence time) of T. chinense was earlier than T. thailandicum. Our findings provided new insights into the species of Translucidithyrium about ecological adaptation and speciation in two separate areas.
["Divergence time"]

Three new species from Guangdong Province of China, and a molecular assessment of Hygrocybe subsection Hygrocybe
Blackening waxcaps (Hygrocybe subsect. Hygrocybe) are a group of colorful and attractive mushrooms. However, the species diversity of subsect. Hygrocybe in China is still poorly known due to the limited sampling. In this study, three new species of this group from Guangdong Province, China are described and illustrated based on their morphological characteristics and molecular analyses of the internal transcribed spacer and large subunit ribosomal DNA regions. Hygrocybe debilipes from grasslands of South China Sea islands is mainly characterized by its orange red to vivid red pileus, fragile stipe, and ellipsoid to oblong basidiospores; H. griseonigricans from woodlands is characterized by its whitish to dull yellow pileus, quick black discoloration and the globose, subglobose to broadly ovoid basidiospores; H. rubroconica from woodlands is characterized by the hemispheric to plano-convex pileus when mature, semitranslucent fibrose stipe, and globose to ellipsoid basidiospores.

Taxonomic revision of Russula subsection Amoeninae from South Korea
Russula subsection Amoeninae is morphologically defined by a dry velvety pileus surface, a complete absence of cystidia with heteromorphous contents in all tissues, and spores without amyloid suprahilar spot. Thirty-four species within subsection Amoeninae have been published worldwide. Although most Russula species in South Korea have been assigned European or North American names, recent molecular studies have shown that Russula species from different continents are not conspecific. Therefore, the present study aims to: 1) define which species of Russula subsection Amoeninae occur on each continent using molecular phylogenetic analyses; 2) revise the taxonomy of Korean Amoeninae. The phylogenetic analyses using the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and multilocus sequences showed that subsection Amoeninae is monophyletic within subgenus Heterophyllidiae section Heterophyllae. A total of 21 Russula subsection Amoeninae species were confirmed from Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and Central America, and species from different continents formed separate clades. Three species were recognized from South Korea and were clearly separated from the European and North American species. These species are R. bella, also reported from Japan, a new species described herein, Russula orientipurpurea, and a new species undescribed due to insufficient material.
["Amoeninae"]

Five new additions to the genus Spathaspora (Saccharomycetales, Debaryomycetaceae) from southwest China
Spathaspora is an important genus of d-xylose-fermenting yeasts that are poorly studied in China. During recent yeast collections in Yunnan Province in China, 13 isolates of Spathaspora were obtained from rotting wood and all represent undescribed taxa. Based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses (ITS and nuc 28S), five new species are proposed: Spathaspora elongata, Sp. mengyangensis, Sp. jiuxiensis, Sp. parajiuxiensis and Sp. rosae. Our results indicate a high species diversity of Spathaspora waiting to be discovered in rotting wood from tropical and subtropical southwest China. In addition, the two Candida species, C. jeffriesii and C. materiae, which are members of the Spathaspora clade based on phylogeny, are transferred to Spathaspora as new combinations.
["Five new species"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Fermentation and Sensory Analysis", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Cortinarius pakistanicus and C. pseudotorvus: two new species in oak forests in the Pakistan Himalayas
The genus of basidiomycetous fungi Cortinarius occurs worldwide, from subtropical to boreal latitudes. Although molecular systematics has triggered the study of these fungi in the Americas and Europe in the last two decades, there is still limited research on its diversity in large portions of the planet, such as the high mountain ranges of Asia. Several collections of Cortinarius were made during mycological field trips conducted between 2014 and 2018 in pure oak forests in the Pakistan Himalayas. An integrative framework combining morphological and phylogenetic data was employed for their study. As a result, the two species C. pakistanicus and C. pseudotorvus are here described as new to science. Detailed macro- and micro-morphological descriptions, including SEM images of spores, and a molecular phylogenetic reconstruction based on nrITS sequence data are provided and used to discriminate the new species from morphologically and phylogenetically close taxa. Whereas our phylogenetic tree inference gave unequivocal support for the inclusion of C. pseudotorvus within C. sect. Telamonia, the assignment of C. pakistanicus to any known sections remained elusive. These species likely establish ectomycorrhizal associations with trees in the genus Quercus, making this type of forest in the Pakistan Himalayas a promising focus for future research on the diversity of Cortinarius.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

Mrakia panshiensis sp. nov. a new member of the Cystofilobasidiales from soil in China, and description of the teleomorphic-stage of M. arctica
In a study on the fungal diversity in Northeast China, twelve yeast isolates were obtained from soils collected in three provinces, Helongjiang, Jilin and Liaoning. Morphological assessment and phylogenetic analyses of the nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the D1/D2 domains of the nuc 28S rDNA (nuc 28S) gene of the 12 cultures placed them in the genus Mrakia, namely Mrakia aquatica, Mrakia arctica, Mrakia frigida, Mrakia gelida and Mrakia robertii. A total of three isolates represented a hitherto undescribed species, which is described here as M. panshiensis sp. nov. (MB 834813). The species M. panshiensis sp. nov. shares several morphological characters with M. niccombsii, M. aquatica, M. fibulata and M. hoshinonis. These species can be distinguished based on physiological traits and pairwise rDNA sequence similarities. The study also describes for the first time the formation of teliospores by previously described M. arctica.
["Cystofilobasidiales"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Morphological and phylogenetic characterisations reveal three new species of Samsoniella (Cordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) from Guizhou, China
Samsoniella species have been found on lepidopteran larvae or pupae buried in soil or leaf litter. Three new species, Samsoniella hymenopterorum, S. coleopterorum and S. lepidopterorum, parasitic on hymenopteran larvae, coleopteran larvae and lepidopteran pupae, respectively, are reported. Morphological comparisons with extant species and DNA-based phylogenies from analysis of a multigene (ITS, RPB1, RPB2 and TEF) dataset supported the establishment of the new species. Unusually, all three new species have mononematous conidiophores. The new species are clearly distinct from other species in Samsoniella occurring in separate subclades.
["Isaria-like"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Four new species of Trichoderma in the Harzianum clade from northern China
The Harzianum clade of Trichoderma comprises many species, which are associated with a wide variety of substrates. In this study, four new species of Trichoderma, namely T. lentinulae, T. vermifimicola, T. xixiacum, and T. zelobreve, were encountered from a fruiting body and compost of Lentinula, soil, and vermicompost. Their colony and mycelial morphology, including features of asexual states, were described. For each species, their DNA sequences were obtained from three loci, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of the ribosomal DNA, the gene encoding the second largest nuclear RNA polymerase subunit (RPB2), the translation elongation factor 1-α encoding gene (TEF1-α). The analysis combining sequences of the three gene regions distinguished four new species in the Harzianum clade of Trichoderma. Among them, T. lentinulae and T. xixiacum clustered with T. lixii, from which these new species differ in having shorter phialides and smaller conidia. Additionally, T. lentinulae differs from T. xixiacum in forming phialides with inequilateral to a strongly-curved apex, cultural characteristics, and slow growth on PDA. Trichoderma vermifimicola is closely related to T. simmonsii, but it differs from the latter by producing phialides in verticillate whorls and smaller conidia. Trichoderma zelobreve is the sister species of T. breve but is distinguished from T. breve by producing shorter and narrower phialides, smaller conidia, and by forming concentric zones on agar plates. This study updates our knowledge of species diversity of Trichoderma.
["compost"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Three new species of Conidiobolus sensu stricto from plant debris in eastern China
The genus Conidiobolus Bref. is widely distributed and the Conidiobolus sensu lato contained three other genera, Capillidium, Microconidiobolus and Neoconidiobolus. A molecular phylogeny based on the nuclear large subunit of rDNA (nucLSU), the mitochondrial small subunit of rDNA (mtSSU) and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha gene (TEF1) revealed three novel species within the clade of Conidiobolus s.s., i.e. C. bifurcatus sp. nov., C. taihushanensis sp. nov. and C. variabilis sp. nov. These three species were isolated from plant debris in eastern China. Morphologically, C. bifurcatus sp. nov. is characterised by its secondary conidiophores often branched at the tip to form two short stipes each bearing a secondary conidium. C. taihushanensis sp. nov. is different from the others in its straight apical mycelia and the production of 2–5 conidia. C. variabilis sp. nov. is distinctive because of its various shapes of primary conidia. All these three new taxa are illustrated herein with an update key to the species of the genus Conidiobolus s.s.
["basal fungi"]

Caliciopsis moriondi, a new species for a fungus long confused with the pine pathogen C. pinea
The genus Caliciopsis (Eurotiomycetes, Coryneliales) includes saprobic and plant pathogenic species. Caliciopsis canker is caused by Caliciopsis pinea Peck, a species first reported in the 19th century in North America. In recent years, increasing numbers of outbreaks of Caliciopsis canker have been reported on different Pinus spp. in the eastern USA. In Europe, the disease has only occasionally been reported causing cankers, mostly on Pinus radiata in stressed plantations. The aim of this study was to clarify the taxonomy of Caliciopsis specimens collected from infected Pinus spp. in Europe and North America using an integrative approach, combining morphology and phylogenetic analyses of three loci. The pathogenicity of the fungus was also considered. Two distinct groups were evident, based on morphology and multilocus phylogenetic analyses. These represent the known pathogen Caliciopsis pinea that occurs in North America and a morphologically similar, but phylogenetically distinct, species described here as Caliciopsis moriondi sp. nov., found in Europe and at least one location in eastern North America. Caliciopsis moriondi differs from C. pinea in various morphological features including the length of the ascomata, as well as their distribution on the stromata.
["Caliciopsis canker"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

The fruticose genera in the Ramalinaceae (Ascomycota, Lecanoromycetes): their diversity and evolutionary history
We present phylogenetic analyses of the fruticose Ramalinaceae based on extensive collections from many parts of the world, with a special focus on the Vizcaíno deserts in north-western Mexico and the coastal desert in Namibia. We generate a four-locus DNA sequence dataset for accessions of Ramalina and two additional loci for Niebla and Vermilacinia. Four genera are strongly supported: the subcosmopolitan Ramalina, the new genus Namibialina endemic to SW Africa, and a duo formed by Niebla and Vermilacinia, endemic to the New World except the sorediate V. zebrina that disjunctly occurs in Namibia. The latter three genera are restricted to coastal desert and chaparral where vegetation depends on moisture from ocean fog. Ramalina is subcosmopolitan and much more diverse in its ecology. We show that Ramalina and its sister genus Namibialina diverged from each other at c. 48 Myrs, whereas Vermilacinia and Niebla split at c. 30 Myrs. The phylogeny of the fruticose genera remains unresolved to their ancestral crustose genera. Species delimitation within Namibialina and Ramalina is rather straightforward. The phylogeny and taxonomy of Vermilacinia are fully resolved, except for the two youngest clades of corticolous taxa, and support current taxonomy, including four new taxa described here. Secondary metabolite variation in Niebla generally coincides with major clades which are comprised of species complexes with still unresolved phylogenetic relationships. A micro-endemism pattern of allopatric species is strongly suspected for both genera, except for the corticolous taxa within Vermilacinia. Both Niebla and saxicolous Vermilacinia have chemotypes unique to species clades that are largely endemic to the Vizcaíno deserts. The following new taxa are described: Namibialina gen. nov. with N. melanothrix (comb. nov.) as type species, a single new species of Ramalina (R. krogiae) and four new species of Vermilacinia (V. breviloba, V. lacunosa, V. pustulata and V. reticulata). The new combination V. granulans is introduced. Two epithets are re-introduced for European Ramalina species: R. crispans (= R. peruviana auct. eur.) and R. rosacea (= R. bourgeana auct. p.p). A lectotype is designated for Vermilacinia procera. A key to saxicolous species of Vermilacinia is presented.
["Atacama"]

Taxonomy of Verrucaria species characterised by large spores, perithecia leaving pits in the rock and a pale thin thallus in Finland
Species of Verrucaria, characterised by large spores (at least some spores exceeding 25 µm in length), perithecia leaving pits in the rock and a pale thin thallus, form a taxonomically-difficult and poorly-known group. In this study, such species occurring in Finland are revised, based on ITS sequences and morphology. Maximum likelihood analysis of ITS sequence data was used to examine if the species belong to the Thelidium group, as suggested by BLAST search. Twelve species are accepted in Finland: Verrucaria bifurcata sp. nov., V. cavernarum sp. nov., V. devergens, V. difficilis sp. nov., V. foveolata, V. fuscozonata sp. nov., V. karelica, V. kuusamoensis sp. nov., V. subdevergens sp. nov., V. subjunctiva, V. subtilis and V. vacillans sp. nov. Verrucaria foveolata is nested in V. subjunctiva in the phylogeny, but due to morphological and ecogeographical differences, the two taxa are treated as separate species pending further studies. Based on the analysis, the study species belong to the Thelidium group. The studied species show a rather high infraspecific morphological, but a low genetic variation. Furthermore, they show considerable overlap in their morphology and many specimens cannot be reliably identified, based on morphology only. All species are restricted to calcareous rocks. Verrucaria alpigena, V. cinereorufa and V. hochstetteri are excluded from the lichen flora of Finland. Verrucaria grossa is considered a species with unresolved identity. Verrucaria foveolata and V. subtilis are rather common on calcareous rocks of Finland while V. devergens and V. kuusamoensis are restricted to northern Finland. Verrucaria subjunctiva occurs mainly in northern Finland. Verrucaria bifurcata has been found only from southern Finland. Verrucaria difficilis has few localities both in SW and NE Finland. Verrucaria vacillans is restricted to calcareous rocks (dolomite) on the mountains of the NW corner of Finland. Verrucaria fuscozonata, V. karelica and V. subdevergens occur only in the Oulanka area in NE Finland. A lectotype is designated for V. subjunctiva. The morphology of the Finnish species was compared with 51 European species of Verrucaria presumably belonging to the Thelidium group.

Phylogeny- and morphology-based recognition of new species in the spider-parasitic genus Gibellula (Hypocreales, Cordycipitaceae) from Thailand
Thailand is known to be a part of what is called the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, hosting a vast array of organisms across its diverse ecosystems. This is reflected by the increasing number of new species described over time, especially fungi. However, a very few fungal species from the specialized spider-parasitic genus Gibellula have ever been reported from this region. A survey of invertebrate-pathogenic fungi in Thailand over several decades has led to the discovery of a number of fungal specimens with affinities to this genus. Integration of morphological traits into multi-locus phylogenetic analysis uncovered four new species: G. cebrennini, G. fusiformispora, G. pigmentosinum, and G. scorpioides. All these appear to be exclusively linked with torrubiella-like sexual morphs with the presence of granulomanus-like asexual morph in G. pigmentosinum and G. cebrennini. A remarkably high host specificity of these new species towards their spider hosts was revealed, and for the first time, evidence is presented for manipulation of host behavior in G. scorpioides.
["Cordycipitaceae"]

Diversity of Akanthomyces on moths (Lepidoptera) in Thailand
Akanthomyces is a genus of invertebrate-pathogenic fungi from the family Cordycipitaceae (Ascomycota, Hypocreales). Its species occurs on two different types of hosts, spiders and insects, and in the latter case specifically Lepidoptera adults. Three new species of Akanthomyces, A. noctuidarum, A. pyralidarum, and A. tortricidarum occurring on adult moths from Thailand are proposed based on the differences of their morphological characteristics and molecular data. Phylogenetic analyses using a combined dataset, including the internal transcribed spacer regions, the large subunit of the ribosomal DNA, translation elongation factor 1-α, the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II, and the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II, support the delimitation of these new species in Akanthomyces.
["Akanthomyces"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Checklist of thallus-forming Laboulbeniomycetes from Belgium and the Netherlands, including Hesperomyces halyziae and Laboulbenia quarantenae spp. nov.
In this paper we present an updated checklist of thallus-forming Laboulbeniomycetes (Ascomycota, Pezizomycotina), that is, the orders Herpomycetales and Laboulbeniales, from Belgium and the Netherlands. Two species are newly described based on morphology, molecular data (ITS, LSU ribosomal DNA) and ecology (host association). These are Hesperomyces halyziae on Halyzia sedecimguttata (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from both countries and Laboulbenia quarantenae on Bembidion biguttatum (Coleoptera, Carabidae) from Belgium. In addition, nine new country records are presented. For Belgium: Laboulbenia aubryi on Amara aranea (Coleoptera, Carabidae) and Rhachomyces spinosus on Syntomus foveatus (Coleoptera, Carabidae). For the Netherlands: Chitonomyces melanurus on Laccophilus minutus (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae), Euphoriomyces agathidii on Agathidium laevigatum (Coleoptera, Leiodidae), Laboulbenia fasciculata on Omophron limbatum (Coleoptera, Carabidae), Laboulbenia metableti on Syntomus foveatus and S. truncatellus (Coleoptera, Carabidae), Laboulbenia pseudomasei on Pterostichus melanarius (Coleoptera, Carabidae), Rhachomyces canariensis on Trechus obtusus (Coleoptera, Carabidae), and Stigmatomyces hydrelliae on Hydrellia albilabris (Diptera, Ephydridae). Finally, an identification key to 140 species of thallus-forming Laboulbeniomycetes in Belgium and the Netherlands is provided. Based on the combined data, we are able to identify mutual gaps that need to be filled as well as weigh the impact of chosen strategies (fieldwork, museum collections) and techniques in these neighboring countries. The aim of this work is to serve as a reference for studying Laboulbeniomycetes fungi in Europe.

The genus Clavariadelphus (Clavariadelphaceae, Gomphales) in China
Clavariadelphus species (Clavariadelphaceae, Gomphales) in China were examined using morphology, molecular phylogenetic analyses of ITS data and chemical reactions. Eleven taxa were identified in China, including four species known previously to occur in China (C. griseoclavus, C. ligula, C. sachalinensis and C. yunnanensis), two new record species from China (C. elongatus and C. himalayensis), four novel species (C. alpinus, C. amplus, C. gansuensis and C. khinganensis) and one species that could not be described due to the paucity of material. Finally, we also provided a taxonomic key for the identification of Clavariadelphus species in China.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Additions to Phaeosphaeriaceae (Pleosporales): Elongaticollum gen. nov., Ophiosphaerella taiwanensis sp. nov., Phaeosphaeriopsis beaucarneae sp. nov. and a new host record of Neosetophoma poaceicola from Musaceae
A novel ascomycetous genus, Elongaticollum, occurring on leaf litter of Hedychium coronarium (Zingiberaceae) in Taiwan, is described and illustrated. Elongaticollum is characterized by dark brown to black, superficial, obpyriform, pycnidial conidiomata with a distinct elongate neck, and oval to oblong, hyaline, aseptate conidia. Phylogenetic analyses (maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian) of combined ITS, LSU, SSU and tef1-α sequence data revealed Elongaticollum as a distinct genus within the family Phaeosphaeriaceae with high statistical support. In addition, Ophiosphaerella taiwanensis and Phaeosphaeriopsis beaucarneae are described as new species from dead leaves of Agave tequilana and Beaucarnea recurvata (Asparagaceae), respectively. Neosetophoma poaceicola is reported as a new host record from dead leaves of Musa acuminata (Musaceae). Newly described taxa are compared with other similar species and comprehensive descriptions and micrographs are provided.
["Asparagaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Banana Cultivation and Research"]

A new lichenized fungus, Lecanora baekdudaeganensis, from South Korea, with a taxonomic key for Korean Lecanora species
Lecanora baekdudaeganensis Lee & Hur is described as a new lichenized fungus from Baekdudaegan Mountains, South Korea. The new species is classified into the Lecanora subfusca group – allophana type and distinguishable from Lecanora imshaugii Brodo by a darker thallus, brownish disc, K–insoluble granules on the surface of the epihymenium, shorter hypothecium, and the presence of oil droplets in the apothecial section. Molecular analyses employing internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and mitochondrial small subunit (mtSSU) sequences strongly support Lecanora baekdudaeganensis as a distinct species in the genus Lecanora. A surrogate key is provided to assist in the identification of all 52 taxa in the genus Lecanora of Korea.

Morpho-molecular diversity of Linocarpaceae (Chaetosphaeriales): Claviformispora gen. nov. from decaying branches of Phyllostachys heteroclada
In this paper, Claviformispora gen. nov. in Linocarpaceae is introduced from Phyllostachys heteroclada in Sichuan Province, China. The new genus is characterised by its distinct morphological characters, such as ostiole with periphyses, asci with a thick doughnut-shaped, J- apical ring and clavate ascospore without septum-like band and appendage. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference phylogenetic analyses, based on DNA sequence data from ITS, LSU, SSU and TEF-1α regions, provide further evidence that the fungus is a distinct genus within this family. The new genus is compared with similar genera, such as Linocarpon and Neolinocarpon. Descriptions, illustrations and notes are provided for the new taxon.
["bambusicolous fungi"]

Three new species of Cortinarius subgenus Telamonia (Cortinariaceae, Agaricales) from China
Cortinarius is an important ectomycorrhizal genus that forms a symbiotic relationship with certain trees, shrubs and herbs. Recently, we began studying Cortinarius in China and here we describe three new species of Cortinarius subg. Telamonia based on morphological and ecological characteristics, together with phylogenetic analyses. Cortinarius laccariphyllus sp. nov. (section Colymbadini) is associated with broadleaf trees, with strongly hygrophanous basidiomata, special Laccaria-like lamellae and white and extremely sparse universal veil. Cortinarius neotorvus sp. nov. (section Telamonia) is associated with broadleaf trees and is easily confused with C. torvus, but can be distinguished by the colour of the fresh basidiomes and the stipe usually somewhat tapering towards the base. Cortinarius subfuscoperonatus sp. nov. (section Fuscoperonati) is associated with coniferous trees, with subglobose to broadly ellipsoid spores and is closely related to C. fuscoperonatus. A key to the new species and similar species in sections Colymbadini, Telamonia and Fuscoperonati is provided.
["Ectomycorrhizal fungi"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Tree inhabiting gnomoniaceous species from China, with Cryphogonomonia gen. nov. proposed
Species of Gnomoniaceae are commonly associated with leaf spot diseases of a wide range of plant hosts worldwide. During our investigation of fungi associated with tree diseases in China, several gnomoniaceous isolates were recovered from symptomatic branches and leaves on different woody plants in the Fagaceae, Pinaceae, and Salicaceae families. These isolates were studied by applying a polyphasic approach including morphological, cultural data, and phylogenetic analyses of partial ITS, LSU, tef1, rpb2 and tub2 gene sequences. As a result, three species were identified with characters fitting into the family Gnomoniaceae. One of these species is described herein as Cryphognomonia pini gen. et sp. nov., characterized by developed pseudostromata and ascospores with obvious hyaline sheath; Gnomoniopsis xunwuensis sp. nov. is illustrated showing sympodially branched conidiophore, oval or fusiform conidia; and one known species, Plagiostoma populinum. The current study improves the understanding of gnomoniaceous species causing diebacks and leaf spot on ecological and economic forest trees.
["forest trees"]

Taxonomy and phylogeny of Sidera (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota): four new species and keys to species of the genus
Sidera is a polypore genus with white to cream or buff basidiomata, whose species in Hymenochaetales are poorly known. We study the phylogeny and diversity of Sidera based on our recent collections from tropic and subtropic Asian-Pacific regions. Phylogenetic analyses based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and nuclear large subunit (nLSU) ribosomal RNA gene regions indicate that ten terminal lineages are well supported within Sidera. Based on morphological examination and phylogeny, four new species, viz. Sidera minutissima, S. parallela, S. srilankensis and S. tenuis are described, and a new combination, Sidera minutipora, is proposed. All these species are illustrated. Sidera minutissima is characterized by tiny basidiomata with bluish pores when fresh, generative hyphae dominating at the dissepiment edges, the presence of cystidioles, and allantoid basidiospores measuring 3.8–4.4 × 0.9–1.3 μm. Sidera parallela differs from other poroid species in the genus by having parallel tramal hyphae in combination with lunate basidiospores measuring 2.8–3.3 × 0.9–1.2 μm. Sidera srilankensis have generative and skeletal hyphae co-dominating at the dissepiment edges, and lunate basidiospores measuring 3.5–4 × 1–1.3 μm. Sidera tenuis is distinguished by small pores (8–10 per mm) and relatively long allantoid basidiospores measuring 4.2–5 × 0.8–1 μm. Sidera minutipora is characterized by buff to olivaceous buff basidiomata when dry, 5–7 pores per mm, rosette-like crystals rare, and allantoid basidiospores measuring 3.7–4.3 × 1–1.3 μm. An identification key to all accepted species is provided.

Hygrophorus subsection Hygrophorus (Hygrophoraceae, Agaricales) in China
Hygrophorus subsect. Hygrophorus has been relatively well-studied in Europe and North America, but studies on the taxa in Asia, particularly in China, are still limited. In this study, phylogenetic overviews of genus Hygrophorus, based on the nuclear large subunit (LSU) ribosomal RNA gene and of subsect. Hygrophorus, based on the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions were generated. Four new species, i.e. H. brunneodiscus, H. fuscopapillatus, H. glutiniceps and H. griseodiscus are described from southern China; and a rarely reported edible species H. hedrychii is described in detail, based upon the materials from north-eastern China. The main characteristics of the species under subsect. Hygrophorus worldwide are summarised in a table.

Two new species of Ophiostomatales (Sordariomycetes) associated with the bark beetle Dryocoetes alni from Poland
Bark beetles belonging to the genus Dryocoetes (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) are known vectors of fungi, such as the pathogenic species Grosmannia dryocoetidis involved in alpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa) mortality. Associations between hardwood-infesting Dryocoetes species and fungi in Europe have received very little research attention. Ectosymbiotic fungi residing in Ceratocystiopsis and Leptographium (Ophiostomatales, Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota) were commonly detected in previous surveys of the Dryocoetes alni-associated mycobiome in Poland. The aim of this study was to accurately identify these isolates and to provide descriptions of the new species. The identification was conducted based on morphology and DNA sequence data for six loci (ITS1-5.8S, ITS2-28S, ACT, CAL, TUB2, and TEF1-α). This revealed two new species, described here as Ceratocystiopsis synnemata sp. nov. and Leptographium alneum sp. nov. The host trees for the new species included Alnus incana and Populus tremula. Ceratocystiopsis synnemata can be distinguished from its closely related species, C. pallidobrunnea, based on conidia morphology and conidiophores that aggregate in loosely arranged synnemata. Leptographium alneum is closely related to Grosmannia crassivaginata and differs from this species in having a larger ascomatal neck, and the presence of larger club-shaped cells.
["Bark beetle"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

First record of Harpellales, Orphellales (Kickxellomycotina) and Amoebidiales (Mesomycetozoea) from Bulgaria, including a new species of Glotzia
This paper presents the results obtained from a short survey performed in Bulgaria, southeast Europe, where the trichomycetes (sensu lato), an ecological group of arthropod gut endosymbionts, were previously completely unknown. The present study initiates the comprehension of these cryptic organisms, members of the Kickxellomycotina (Harpellales, Orphellales) and the Mesomycetozoea (Amoebidiales), in this Balkan country. Eighteen new geographic records for Bulgaria are reported, including 10 species of Harpellales, three species of Orphellales and five species of Amoebidiales. Within the Harpellales, the species Glotzia balkanensis sp. nov. is described. This new species is most related to the rare species G. centroptili Gauthier ex Manier & Lichtw. and G. stenospora White & Lichtw., but is differentiated by spore and thallial characteristics. Photographs are provided and biogeographic implications of these records are discussed.
["Infectious Diseases and Mycology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

The first Laboulbeniales (Ascomycota, Laboulbeniomycetes) from an American millipede, discovered through social media
Laboulbeniales are highly specialized arthropod-associated fungi. The majority of the almost 2200 known species live on insects, although they also occur on other arthropod hosts. Recently, the number of Laboulbeniales associated with millipedes has increased considerably. Here we describe the first species of a Laboulbeniales fungus, Troglomyces twitteri sp. nov., from an American millipede. The new species was initially discovered on a photo of Cambala annulata (Say, 1821) from Ohio, USA, which had been shared on Twitter. A subsequent microscopic study of Cambala millipedes in museum collections in Denmark and France confirmed the discovery.
["animal-fungus interaction"]
["Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Gnomoniopsis chinensis (Gnomoniaceae, Diaporthales), a new fungus causing canker of Chinese chestnut in Hebei Province, China
Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima) is an important crop tree species in China. However, branch canker and fruit rot are two kinds of severe diseases, which weaken the host and decrease chestnut production. During our investigations into chestnut diseases in China, several fungi have been confirmed as casual agents in previous studies, namely Aurantiosacculus castaneae, Cryphonectria neoparasitica, Cry. parasitica, Endothia chinensis and Gnomoniopsis daii. In this study, a new canker pathogen is introduced based on morphology, phylogeny and pathogenicity. Typical Gnomoniopsis canker sign of wide, orange tendrils emerging from hosts’ glaucous lenticels were obvious on the diseased trees in the field. Symptomatic branches or bark on stems from different chestnut plantations were sampled and isolated, then strains were identified by comparisons of DNA sequence data for the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), partial translation elongation factor-1α (tef1) and β-tubulin (tub2) gene regions as well as morphological features. As a result, these strains appeared different from any known Gnomoniopsis species. Hence, we propose a novel species named Gnomoniopsis chinensis. Pathogenicity was further tested using the ex-type strain (CFCC 52286) and another strain (CFCC 52288) on both detached branches and 3-year-old chestnut seedlings. The inoculation results showed that Gnomoniopsis chinensis is mildly pathogenic to Chinese chestnut. However, further studies are required to confirm its pathogenicity to the other cultivated Castanea species in America, Europe and Japan.
["Castanea mollissima"]

Three new Diaporthe species from Shaanxi Province, China
Diaporthe species (Sordariomycetes, Diaporthales) are often reported as important plant pathogens, saprobes and endophytes on a wide range of plant hosts. In this study, Diaporthe specimens were collected from symptomatic twigs and branches at the Huoditang Forest Farm in Shaanxi Province, China. Identification was done using a combination of morphology and comparison of DNA sequence data of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), calmodulin (cal), histone H3 (his3), partial translation elongation factor-1α (tef1) and β-tubulin (tub2) gene regions. Three new Diaporthe species are proposed: D. albosinensis, D. coryli and D. shaanxiensis. All species are illustrated and their morphology and phylogenetic relationships with other Diaporthe species are discussed.
["Diaporthaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

Discovery of a new species of the Hypoxylon rubiginosum complex from Iran and antagonistic activities of Hypoxylon spp. against the Ash Dieback pathogen, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, in dual culture
During a survey of xylarialean fungi in Northern Iran, several specimens that showed affinities to the Hypoxylon rubiginosum complex were collected and cultured. A comparison of their morphological characters, combined with a chemotaxonomic study based on high performance liquid chromatography, coupled with diode array detection and mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD/MS) and a multi-locus phylogeny based on ITS, LSU, rbp2 and tub2 DNA sequences, revealed a new species here described as Hypoxylon guilanense. In addition, Hypoxylon rubiginosum sensu stricto was also encountered. Concurrently, an endophytic isolate of the latter species showed strong antagonistic activities against the Ash Dieback pathogen, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, in a dual culture assay in our laboratory. Therefore, we decided to test the new Iranian fungi for antagonistic activities against the pathogen, along with several cultures of other Hypoxylon species that are related to H. rubiginosum. Our results suggest that the antagonistic effects of Hypoxylon spp. against Hym. fraxineus are widespread and that they are due to the production of antifungal phomopsidin derivatives in the presence of the pathogen.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Fungal Plant Pathogen Control"]

Squamarina (lichenised fungi) species described from China belong to at least three unrelated genera
New collections of six Squamarina species from type localities in China were studied. The comparison of morphological characteristics and secondary metabolites with those of the type specimens and phylogenetic analyses suggest that S. callichroa and S. pachyphylla belong to Rhizoplaca, S. semisterilis belongs to Lobothallia and S. chondroderma should be retained in Lecanora temporarily. Only two species, S. kansuensis and S. oleosa, remain in Squamarina. The new combinations Lobothallia semisterilis (H. Magn.) Y. Y. Zhang, Rhizoplaca callichroa (Zahlbr.) Y. Y. Zhang and R. pachyphylla (H. Magn.) Y. Y. Zhang are proposed. Detailed descriptions to aid the identification of these species, distributions and phylogenetic trees, based on multiple collections, are presented. The generic concept of Squamarina is recircumscribed in this study.
["Squamarinaceae"]

Hydnaceous fungi of China 8. Morphological and molecular identification of three new species of Sarcodon and a new record from southwest China
Three new stipitate hydnoid fungi, Sarcodon coactus, S. grosselepidotus and S. lidongensis, are described and illustrated, based on morphological characteristics and nuc ITS rDNA + nuc LSU rDNA sequence analyses and a new record, S. leucopus, from China is reported. S. coactus is characterised by ellipsoid to round basidiocarps, reddish-brown to dark brown, felted pileal surface with white and incurved margins, simple-septate and partly short-celled generative hyphae and irregular subglobose, thin-walled, brown basidiospores with tuberculate ornamentation (tuberculi up to 1 μm long). S. grosselepidotus is characterised by infundibuliform to round, occasionally deeply fissured pileus, pale orange to dark ruby pileal surface with ascending and coarse scales, simple-septate generative hyphae and irregular ellipsoid to globose, thin-walled, brown basidiospores with tuberculate ornamentation (tuberculi up to 0.7 μm long). S. lidongensis is characterised by plano-convex to somewhat depressed and regular orbicular pileus, light brown to dark brown pileal surface with adhering squamose and purplish-brown, incurved and occasionally incised margin, cylindrical or broadened below stipe, simple-septate generative hyphae and irregular ellipsoid to subglobose, thin-walled basidiospores with tuberculate ornamentation (tuberculi up to 1 μm long). The absence of the clamp connection is the common morphological characteristic of these three new species; however, S. leucopus, a new record from China, has frequently clamped generative hyphae. Molecular analyses confirm the phylogenetic positions of three new and the new record species. The discriminating characters of these three new species and closely related species are discussed and a key to the species of Sarcodon from China is provided.
["Bankeraceae"]

A taxonomic revision of the genus Conidiobolus (Ancylistaceae, Entomophthorales): four clades including three new genera
The genus Conidiobolus is an important group in entomophthoroid fungi and is considered to be polyphyletic in recent molecular phylogenies. To re-evaluate and delimit this genus, multi-locus phylogenetic analyses were performed using the large and small subunits of nuclear ribosomal DNA (nucLSU and nucSSU), the small subunit of the mitochondrial ribosomal DNA (mtSSU) and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (EF-1α). The results indicated that the Conidiobolus is not monophyletic, being grouped into a paraphyletic grade with four clades. Consequently, the well-known Conidiobolus is revised and three new genera Capillidium, Microconidiobolus and Neoconidiobolus are proposed along with one new record and 22 new combinations. In addition, the genus Basidiobolus is found to be basal to the other entomophthoroid taxa and the genus Batkoa locates in the Entomophthoraceae clade.
["Zygomycetes"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Additions to the genus Chroogomphus (Boletales, Gomphidiaceae) from Pakistan
With only three published reports, the genus Chroogomphus (Boletales, Gomphidiaceae) is poorly studied in Pakistan. During recent sampling events in Khyber Pakhtunkhawa province, Pakistan, several collections of Chroogomphus were made, representing undescribed taxa. Based on morphological and molecular data, two new species are described: Chroogomphus pakistanicus and C. pruinosus. We present a description and illustrations for both taxa. A molecular phylogenetic reconstruction, based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS1–5.8S–ITS2) barcode region, shows that C. pakistanicus and C. pruinosus are placed in two different subgenera of Chroogomphus (subg. Chroogomphus and subg. Siccigomphus, respectively).
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Studies of Neotropical tree pathogens in Moniliophthora: a new species, M. mayarum, and new combinations for Crinipellis ticoi and C. brasiliensis
The crinipelloid genera Crinipellis and Moniliophthora (Agaricales, Marasmiaceae) are characterized by basidiomes that produce long, dextrinoid, hair-like elements on the pileus surface. Historically, most species are believed to be saprotrophic or, rarely, parasitic on plant hosts. The primary morphological diagnostic characters that separate Crinipellis and Moniliophthora are pliant vs. stiff (Crinipellis) stipes and a tendency toward production of reddish pigments (ranging from violet to orange) in the basidiome in Moniliophthora. Additionally, most species of Moniliophthora appear to have a biotrophic habit, while those of Crinipellis are predominantly saprotrophic. Recently, several new neotropical collections prompted a morphological and phylogenetic analysis of this group. Herein, we propose a new species and two new combinations: Moniliophthora mayarum sp. nov., described from Belize, is characterized by its larger pileus and narrower basidiospores relative to other related species; Moniliophthora ticoi comb. nov. (= Crinipellis ticoi) is recollected and redescribed from biotrophic collections from northern Argentina; and M. brasiliensis comb. nov. (= Crinipellis brasiliensis), a parasite of Heteropterys acutifolia. The addition of these three parasitic species into Moniliophthora support a hypothesis of a primarily biotrophic/parasitic habit within this genus.
["Agaricomycotina"]

Phylogeography of post-Pleistocene population expansion in Dasyscyphella longistipitata (Leotiomycetes, Helotiales), an endemic fungal symbiont of Fagus crenata in Japan
During the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), drastic environmental changes modified the topology of the Japanese Archipelago, impacting species distributions. An example is Fagus crenata, which has a present continuous distribution throughout Japan. However, by the end of the LGM it was restricted to southern refugia. Similarly, Dasyscyphella longistipitata (Leotiomycetes, Helotiales, Lachnaceae) occurs strictly on cupules of F. crenata, sharing currently an identical distribution. As the effects of the LGM remain poorly understood for saprobiotic microfungal species, herein we identified past structuring forces that shaped the current genetic diversity within D. longistipitata in relation to its host using a phylogeographic approach. We inferred present and past potential distributions through species distribution modeling, identifying environmental suitability areas in mid-southern Japan from which subsequent colonizations occurred. Our findings suggest that current high genetic diversity and lack of genetic structure within D. longistipitata are the result of recent multiple re-colonization events after the LGM.
["Divergence"]

Diversity of Trametes (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) in tropical Benin and description of new species Trametes parvispora
Trametes is a globally distributed genus of white-rot polypores and well sampled in temperate and boreal areas. However, the diversity, taxonomy, and phylogenetic positions of Trametes spp. are poorly known in tropical Africa. This study aims at documenting the diversity of Trametes species in Benin (tropical Africa) and their phylogenetic positions with a focus on the T. elegans species complex. Therefore, we collected specimens of Trametes from different forest types across Benin. To infer phylogenetic relationships between Trametes species, we investigated sequences of five gene regions and added available sequences from GenBank. Using Maximum likelihood and Bayesian phylogeny inference methods, we found eight supported species clades. For the T. elegans species complex, we re-establish the name Trametes palisotii for species previously known as T. elegans in tropical Africa. Furthermore, we propose Trametes parvispora as a species new to science and provide the description of this species. Our molecular phylogeny of Trametes with a focus on tropical Benin contributes to taxonomic clarity of an important wood-decay fungal genus, which is the basis for biodiversity assessments of Trametes in the tropics.

The smut fungi of Greenland
The first taxonomic treatment of the smut fungi in Greenland is provided. A total of 43 species in 11 genera are treated and illustrated by photographs of sori, microphotographs of spores in LM and SEM, and distribution maps. Two species, Anthracoidea pseudofoetidae and Urocystis tothii, are recorded as new from North America. Thirteen species, Anthracoidea altera, A. capillaris, A. limosa, A. liroi, A. pseudofoetidae, A. scirpoideae, A. turfosa, Microbotryum lagerheimii, M. stellariae, Schizonella elynae, Stegocintractia luzulae, Urocystis fischeri, and U. tothii, are reported for the first time from Greenland. Three new fungus-host combinations, Anthracoidea capillaris on Carex boecheriana, Anthracoidea pseudofoetidae on Carex maritima, and Urocystis tothii on Juncus biglumis, are given. Five plant species are reported as new hosts of smut fungi in Greenland, namely, Carex nigra for Anthracoidea heterospora, C. canescens for Anthracoidea karii, C. fuliginosa subsp. misandra for Anthracoidea misandrae, C. maritima for Orphanomyces arcticus, and C. fuliginosa subsp. misandra for Schizonella melanogramma. Three species, Microbotryum violaceum s. str. (recorded as ‘Ustilago violacea’), Urocystis anemones, and U. junci, which were previously reported from Greenland, are considered wrongly identified. Additional distribution records are given for 12 species from Greenland: Anthracoidea bigelowii, A. caricis, A. elynae, A. lindebergiae, A. misandrae, A. nardinae, A. rupestris, A. scirpi, Schizonella melanogramma, Stegocintractia hyperborea, Urocystis agropyri, and U. sorosporioides. The most numerous distribution groups are the following: circumpolar–alpine and Arctic–alpine species – 14; circumboreal–polar species – 10; and circumpolar and Arctic species – 6. The most widely distributed smut fungi in Greenland were Anthracoidea bigelowii, A. elynae, Microbotryum bistortarum, and M. vinosum. Most species were found in the High Arctic zone (29 species), while from the Low Arctic zone and the Subarctic zone, 26 and 19 species were known, respectively. Ten species, Anthracoidea bigelowii, A. capillaris, A. elynae, Microbotryum bistortarum, M. koenigiae, M. pustulatum, M. silenes-acaulis, M. vinosum, Schizonella elynae, and Urocystis sorosporioides, were recorded from all three zones. Only plants belonging to six families, Cyperaceae, Poaceae, Juncaceae, Ranunculaceae, Caryophyllaceae, and Polygonaceae, out of a total of 55 in the flora of Greenland, hosted smut fungi. Cyperaceae was the plant family with most host species (23). Carex was the genus with the highest number of host species (22). The total number of the host plants (45 species) was 8.5 % out of a total of 532 vascular plants in the flora of Greenland. A new combination in Carex, C. macroprophylla subsp. subfilifolia, is proposed for Kobresia filifolia subsp. subfilifolia.
["Anthracoidea"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Arboricolonus simplex gen. et sp. nov. and novelties in Cadophora, Minutiella and Proliferodiscus from Prunus wood in Germany
During a survey on fungi associated with wood necroses of Prunus trees in Germany, strains belonging to the Leotiomycetes and Eurotiomycetes were detected by preliminary analyses of ITS sequences. Multi-locus phylogenetic analyses (LSU, ITS, TUB, EF-1α, depending on genus) of 31 of the 45 strains from Prunus and reference strains revealed several new taxa, including Arboricolonus gen. nov., a new genus in the Helotiales (Leotiomycetes) with a collophorina-like asexual morph. Seven Cadophora species (Helotiales, Leotiomycetes) were treated. The 29 strains from Prunus belonged to five species, of which C. luteo-olivacea and C. novi-eboraci were dominating; C. africana sp. nov., C. prunicola sp. nov. and C. ramosa sp. nov. were revealed as new species. The genus Cadophora was reported from Prunus for the first time. Phialophora bubakii was combined in Cadophora and differentiated from C. obscura, which was resurrected. Asexual morphs of two Proliferodiscus species (Helotiales, Leotiomycetes) were described, including one new species, Pr. ingens sp. nov. Two Minutiella species (Phaeomoniellales, Eurotiomycetes) were detected, including the new species M. pruni-avium sp. nov. Prunus avium and P. domestica are reported as host plants of Minutiella.

The genus Melanconis (Diaporthales)
The genus Melanconis (Melanconidaceae, Diaporthales) in the strict sense is here re-evaluated regarding phylogenetic structure, taxonomy, distribution and ecology. Using a matrix of sequences from ITS, LSU, ms204, rpb2, tef1 and tub2, eight species are recognised and their phylogenetic positions are determined. Based on phylogenetic, morphological and geographical differentiation, Melanconis marginalis is subdivided into four subspecies. Melanconis italica is reduced to a subspecies of Melanconis marginalis. The two species Melanconis larissae from Betula sp. and M. pacifica from Alnus rubra are described as new. Melanconis alni and M. stilbostoma are lectotypified and M. alni, M. marginalis and M. stilbostoma are epitypified. All GenBank sequences deposited as Melanconis alni are shown to actually represent M. marginalis and those as M. marginalis belong to the newly described M. pacifica. Currently, Alnus and Betula are the sole host genera of Melanconis. All species and subspecies are (re-)described and illustrated. In addition, the neotypification of Melanconium pterocaryae is here validated.
["Juglanconis"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Diseases of Cymbopogon citratus (Poaceae) in China: Curvularia nanningensis sp. nov.
Five Curvularia strains isolated from diseased leaves of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) in Guangxi Province, China, were examined. NCBI-Blast searches of ITS sequences suggested a high degree of similarity (99–100%) to Curvularia akaii, C. akaiiensis, C. bothriochloae, C. heteropogonis and C. sichuanensis. To accurately identify these strains, we further analysed their morphology and phylogenetic relationships based on combinations of ITS, GAPDH, and tef1 gene sequences. Morphological observations indicated that the key character differing from similar species was conidial size, whereas phylogenetic analyses indicated that the five strains represent one species that is also distinct from C. akaii, C. akaiiensis and C. bothriochloae by conidial size and conidiophore length. Thus, the strains examined are found to represent a new species described herein as Curvularia nanningensis. The pathogenicity test on the host and detached leaves confirmed the new species to be pathogenic on Cymbopogon citratus leaves. Standardised requirements for reliable identification of Curvularia pathogens are also proposed.
["Cymbopogon"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Longistriata flava (Boletaceae, Basidiomycota) – a new monotypic sequestrate genus and species from Brazilian Atlantic Forest
A new monotypic sequestrate genus, Longistriata is described based on collections from the Neotropical forest of Atlantic forest in Paraíba, Northeast Brazil – an area known for its high degree of endemism. The striking features of this new fungus are the hypogeous habit, the vivid yellow peridium in mature basidiomes, broadly ellipsoid basidiospores with a distinct wall that is ornamented with longitudinal striations and lageniform cystidia with rounded apices. Phylogenetic analysis, based on LSU and tef-1α regions, showed that the type species, Longistriata flava, is phylogenetically sister to the monotypic sequestrate African genus Mackintoshia in Boletaceae. Together these two species formed the earliest diverging lineage in the subfamily Zangioideae. Longistriata flava is found in nutrient-poor white sand habitats where plants in the genera Coccoloba (Polygonaceae) and Guapira (Nyctaginaceae) are the only potential ectomycorrhizal host symbionts.
["Boletales"]

Discovery of Cytospora species associated with canker disease of tree hosts from Mount Dongling of China
Members of Cytospora encompass important plant pathogens, saprobes and endophytes on a wide range of woody hosts with a worldwide distribution. In the current study, we obtained seven representative isolates from six tree hosts of Betulaceae, Juglandaceae, Rosaceae, Tiliaceae and Ulmaceae in Mount Dongling of China. Based on morphological comparison and phylogenetic analyses using partial ITS, LSU, act, rpb2, tef1-α and tub2 gene sequences, we identified two known species (Cytospora leucostoma and C. pruinopsis) and two novel species (C. coryli and C. spiraeicola). These results represent the first study on Cytospora species associated with canker disease from Mount Dongling of China.
["Cytosporaceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics"]

Integrative taxonomy confirms three species of Coniocarpon (Arthoniaceae) in Norway
We have studied the highly oceanic genus Coniocarpon in Norway. Our aim has been to delimit species of Coniocarpon in Norway based on an integrative taxonomic approach. The material studied comprises 120 specimens of Coniocarpon, obtained through recent collecting efforts (2017 and 2018) or received from major fungaria in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, as well as from private collectors. We have assessed (1) species delimitations and relationships based on Bayesian and maximum likelihood phylogenetic analyses of three genetic markers (mtSSU, nucITS and RPB2), (2) morphology and anatomy using standard light microscopy, and (3) secondary lichen chemistry using high-performance thin-layer chromatography. The results show three genetically distinct lineages of Coniocarpon, representing C. cinnabarinum, C. fallax and C. cuspidans comb. nov. The latter was originally described as Arthonia cinnabarina f. cuspidans and is herein raised to species level. All three species are supported by morphological, anatomical and chemical data.
["Arthoniales"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Identification of six Cytospora species on Chinese chestnut in China
Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima) is an important crop tree species in China. In the present study, Cytospora specimens were collected from Chinese chestnut trees and identified using molecular data of combined ITS, LSU, ACT and RPB2 loci, as well as morphological features. As a result, two new Cytospora species and four new host records were confirmed, viz. C. kuanchengensis sp. nov., C. xinglongensis sp. nov., C. ceratospermopsis, C. leucostoma, C. myrtagena and C. schulzeri.
["Castanea mollissima"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Phylogenetic overview of Aureoboletus (Boletaceae, Boletales), with descriptions of six new species from China
In this study, species relationships of the genus Aureoboletus were studied, based on both morphological characteristics and a four-gene (nrLSU, tef1-a, rpb1 and rpb2) phylogenetic inference. Thirty-five species of the genus have been revealed worldwide, forming eight major clades in the phylogenetic tree, of which twenty-four species have been found in China, including six new species: A. glutinosus, A. griseorufescens, A. raphanaceus, A. sinobadius, A. solus, A. velutipes and a new combination A. miniatoaurantiacus (Bi & Loh) Ming Zhang, N.K. Zeng & T.H. Li proposed here. A key to 24 known Chinese species has been provided.
["Boletes"]

A novel sequestrate species from Mexico: Aroramyces guanajuatensis sp. nov. (Hysterangiaceae, Hysterangiales)
Knowledge of sequestrate Hysterangiaceae fungi in Mexico is very limited. In the present study, a new member of the family, Aroramyces guanajuatensis sp. nov., is described. This speciesis closely related to A. balanosporus, but differs from the latter in possessing a tomentose peridium 165–240 µm thick, with occasional large terminal hyphae up to 170 µm, a variable mesocutis (isodiametric to angular), and distinct bright yellowish subcutis. In contrast, A. balanosporus possesses a fibrillose peridial surface with shorter hyphae, a peridium 200–450 µm thick, and a mainly hyaline isodiametric mesocutis with a slightly wider subcutis. The phylogenetic analysis of the LSU gene separated A. guanajuatensis from A. balanosporus with a Bayesian posterior probability (PP) = 1. This is the third Aroramyces species described for the American continent.
["Truffle"]

Descriptions of five new species in Entoloma subgenus Claudopus from China, with molecular phylogeny of Entoloma s.l.
Entoloma subgenus Claudopus is widely distributed, yet the taxonomy and systematics of its species are still poorly documented. In the present study, more than forty collections of Claudopus were gathered in China and subsequently analysed, based on morphological and molecular data. The results revealed first a high level of species diversity of Claudopus in China and second, there is a wide ecological range regarding the substrates and the habitats ranging from temperate, tropical to subalpine locations. Based on morphological and molecular evidence, five novel species from China are proposed, viz. E. conchatum, E. flabellatum, E. gregarium, E. pleurotoides and E. reductum. Molecular phylogeny of Entoloma s.l. was also reconstructed, based on 187 representatives of Entoloma s.l. by employing the combined ITS, LSU, mtSSU and RPB2 sequences. Ten monophyletic clades (Claudopus, Leptonia, Nolanea, Cuboid-spored Inocephalus, “Alboleptonia”, Cyanula, Pouzarella, Rhodopolia, Prunuloides and Rusticoides) were recovered, while 13 taxa could not be placed in any defined clades. The results confirmed that Claudopus in a traditional morphological sense is not monophyletic and the Rusticoides-group, previously considered within Claudopus, formed a separate clade; but section Claudopus and relatives of E. undatum belong to a distinctive monophyletic group. Despite some monophyletic groups in Entoloma s.l. being distinctive in both morphology and molecular phylogeny, they were still treated as subgenera of Entoloma s.l. temporarily, because accepting them as genera will make Entoloma s.l. paraphyletic.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

The genus Massalongia (lichenised ascomycetae) in the Southern Hemisphere
The species of Massalongia recorded and described from the Southern Hemisphere are revised and it is shown that only one is present; M. patagonica which is widespread, with populations in Australia and New Zealand that differ from the South American populations, but at present best regarded as part of the variation of that species. Records from this hemisphere of all other species placed in the genus are incorrect. The type species, M. carnosa, is restricted to the Northern Hemisphere. Two species, M. antarctica and M. novozelandica cannot be identified precisely due to lack of sufficient type material and with the types as the only collections known of these, but none belongs in Massalongia according to available data. Massalongia griseolobata (from Gough Isl.) is shown here to belong in the Pannariaceae and is part of the parmelielloid clade. M. intricata (from South Georgia) and M. olechiana (from South Shetland) have both recently been correctly transferred to the genus Steinera in the Arctomiaceae.
["Peltigerales"]

Neptunomyces aureus gen. et sp. nov. (Didymosphaeriaceae, Pleosporales) isolated from algae in Ria de Aveiro, Portugal
A collection of fungi was isolated from macroalgae of the genera Gracilaria, Enteromorpha and Ulva in the estuary Ria de Aveiro in Portugal. These isolates were characterized through a multilocus phylogeny based on ITS region of the ribosomal DNA, beta-tubulin (tub2) and translation elongation factor 1 alpha (tef1-α) sequences, in conjunction with morphological and physiological data. These analyses showed that the isolates represented an unknown fungus for which a new genus, Neptunomyces gen. nov. and a new species, Neptunomyces aureus sp. nov. are proposed. Phylogenetic analyses supported the affiliation of this new taxon to the family Didymosphaeriaceae.
["Didymosphaeriaceae"]

A four-locus phylogeny of rib-stiped cupulate species of Helvella (Helvellaceae, Pezizales) with discovery of three new species
Helvella species are ascomycetous macrofungi with saddle-shaped or cupulate apothecia. They are distributed worldwide and play an important ecological role as ectomycorrhizal symbionts. A recent multi-locus phylogenetic study of the genus suggested that the cupulate group of Helvella was in need of comprehensive revision. In this study, all the specimens of cupulate Helvella sensu lato with ribbed stipes deposited in HMAS were examined morphologically and molecularly. A four-locus phylogeny was reconstructed using partial sequences of the heat shock protein 90, nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer region 2, nuclear large subunit ribosomal DNA and translation elongation factor 1-α genes. Three clades were revealed in Helvella sensu stricto. Twenty species were included in the analysis, of which 13 are distributed in China. Three new species, H. acetabuloides, H. sichuanensis and H. tianshanensis, are described and illustrated in detail. A neotype was designated for H. taiyuanensis. Helvella calycina is a new record for China, while Dissingia leucomelaena should be excluded from Chinese mycota. Hsp90 and ITS2 are recommended as useful supplementary barcodes for species identifications of the genus.

Taxonomy of two synnematal fungal species from Rhus chinensis, with Flavignomonia gen. nov. described
Rhus chinensis represents a commercially and ecologically important tree species in China, but suffers from canker diseases in Jiangxi Province. Synnemata, pycnidia and ascomata were discovered on cankered tissues. Strains were obtained from single ascospore or conidium within the fruiting bodies and identified based on morphological comparison and the phylogenetic analyses of partial ITS, LSU, tef1 and rpb2 gene sequences. As a result, two species were confirmed to represent two kinds of synnemata. One of these species is described herein as Flavignomonia rhoigena gen. et sp. nov.; and Synnemasporella aculeans is illustrated showing ascomata, pycnidia and synnemata. Flavignomonia is distinguished from Synnemasporella by the colour of the synnematal tips. Additionally, Flavignomonia can be distinguished from the other gnomoniaceous genera by the formation of synnemata.
["Diaporthales"]

Three new species and a new combination of Triblidium
Triblidiaceae (Rhytismatales) currently consists of two genera: Triblidium and Huangshania. Triblidium is the type genus and is characterised by melanized apothecia that occur scattered or in small clusters on the substratum, cleistohymenial (opening in the mesohymenial phase), inamyloid thin-walled asci and hyaline muriform ascospores. Before this study, only the type species, Triblidium caliciiforme, had DNA sequences in the NCBI GenBank. In this study, six specimens of Triblidium were collected from China and France and new ITS, mtSSU, LSU and RPB2 sequences were generated. Our molecular phylogenetic analysis and morphological study demonstrated three new species of Triblidium, which are formally described here: T. hubeiense, T. rostriforme and T. yunnanense. Additionally, our results indicated that Huangshania that was considered to be distinct from Triblidium because of its elongated, transversely-septate ascospores, is congeneric with Triblidium. Therefore, we have placed Huangshania in synonymy under Triblidium, rendering Triblidiaceae a monotypic family.
["Huangshania"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

The Ganoderma weberianum-resinaceum lineage: multilocus phylogenetic analysis and morphology confirm G. mexicanum and G. parvulum in the Neotropics
Many species of Ganoderma exhibit a high phenotypic plasticity. Hence, particularly among them, the morphological species concept remains difficult to apply, resulting in a currently confused taxonomy; as a consequence, the geographical distribution range of many species also remains very uncertain. One of the areas with a strong uncertainty, as far as morphological species concept is concerned, is the Neotropics. It is common that names of species described from other regions, mainly from northern temperate areas, have been applied to Neotropical species. The aim of the present study was to determine which species might lay behind the G. weberianum complex in the Neotropics, using morphological studies and phylogenetic inferences based on both single (ITS) and multilocus (ITS, rpb2, and tef1-α) sequences. The results indicated that G. weberianum sensu Steyaert, which is the usually accepted concept for this taxon, was absent from the Neotropics. In this area, G. weberianum sensu Steyaert encompassed at least two phylogenetic species, which are tentatively, for the time being, identified as belonging to G. mexicanum and G. parvulum. These two species could be distinguished morphologically, notably by the ornamentation or its absence on their chlamydospores. The results also showed that additional species from the Neotropics might still exist, including, e.g., G. perzonatum, but their circumscription remains uncertain until now because of the paucity of material available. Furthermore, it was found that the current concept of G. resinaceum embraced a complex of species.

Additions to the knowledge of Ganoderma in Thailand: Ganoderma casuarinicola, a new record; and Ganoderma thailandicum sp. nov.
Ganoderma is a cosmopolitan genus of mushrooms, which can cause root and butt rot diseases on many tree species. Members of this genus are particularly diverse in tropical regions. Some Ganoderma spp. are medicinally active and therefore are used to treat human diseases or as a dietary supplement. In this study, three Ganoderma strains were collected in tropical southern Thailand. Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, LSU, TEF1α and RPB2 sequence data indicated that the three strains grouped in a distinct lineage within laccate Ganoderma. One strain was collected from Surat Thani Province clustered in the G. casuarinicola clade with high statistical support (MLBS = 100% / MPBS = 98% / PP = 0.96), while the other two strains of Ganoderma, collected from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, formed a distinct well-supported clade (MLBS = 100% / MPBS = 100% / PP = 1.00) and are described here as a new species. Ganoderma casuarinicola is reported here as a new record to Thailand. Morphological differences of the two taxa and their closely related taxa are discussed. Colour photographs of macro and micro morphological characteristics and a phylogenetic tree to show the placement of the new record and new species are provided.
["Ganodermataceae"]
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Diaporthalean fungi associated with canker and dieback of trees from Mount Dongling in Beijing, China
Diaporthales is a fungal order comprising important plant pathogens, saprobes and endophytes on a wide range of woody hosts. It is often difficult to differentiate the pathogens in this order, since both the morphology and disease symptoms are similar among the various species. In the current study, we obtained 15 representative diaporthalean isolates from six tree hosts belonging to plant families Betulaceae, Fagaceae, Juglandaceae, Rosaceae, and Ulmaceae from Mount Dongling in China. Six species were identified residing in four families of Diaporthales (Diaporthaceae, Erythrogloeaceae, Juglanconidaceae and Melanconidaceae). Based on morphological comparison and the phylogenetic analyses of partial ITS, LSU, cal, his3, rpb2, tef1-α and tub2 gene sequences, we identified five known species (Diaporthe betulina, D. eres, D. rostrata, Juglamconis oblonga and Melanconis stilbostoma) and one novel species (Dendrostoma donglinensis). These results represent the first study of diaporthalean fungi associated with canker and dieback symptoms from Mount Dongling in Beijing, China.

European species of Dendrostoma (Diaporthales)
European species of the genus Dendrostoma (Erythrogloeaceae, Diaporthales) occurring on Castanea sativa and Quercus spp. based on freshly collected material are presented. Using a matrix of sequences from ITS, LSU, rpb2, and tef1, five species are recognized, and their phylogenetic positions are determined. Four species are added to the 14 described species of Dendrostoma. Dendrostoma atlanticum on Castanea sativa, D. creticum on Quercus coccifera and D. istriacum on Q. ilex are described as new species, Valsa castanea is combined in Dendrostoma, and D. leiphaemia is redescribed and illustrated. A key to the European species of Dendrostoma is provided.
["Amphiporthe"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Behind the veil – exploring the diversity in Phallus indusiatus s.l. (Phallomycetidae, Basidiomycota)
Studies have demonstrated that many cosmopolitan species actually consist of divergent clades that present high levels of morphological stasis throughout their evolutionary histories. Phallus indusiatus s.l. has been described as a circum-tropical species. However, this distribution may actually reflect the lack of taxonomic resolution due to the small number of diagnostic morphological characters, which leads to the identification of new records as populations of P. indusiatus. Here, we examine the diversity of P. indusiatus-like species in Brazilian Amazonia. We show a clear congruence between detailed morphological data and ITS, nuc-LSU and atp6 based phylogenetic analyses and three new species are described within the Brazilian indusiate clade. These results highlight the importance of more detailed investigation, with the inclusion of molecular information, in Neotropical fungi.

Three novel insect-associated species of Simplicillium (Cordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) from Southwest China
In this paper, we introduce three new species of Simplicillium, viz. S. cicadellidae, S. formicidae and S. lepidopterorum, which were isolated from an infected leafhopper, ant and carpenterworm, respectively. Morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses based on multigene datasets (LSU+RPB1+RPB2+TEF and ITS+LSU) support the establishment of the three new species. Simplicillium cicadellidae was distinguished from other species in morphological characteristics by having smaller phialides and ellipsoidal conidia, and lacking octahedral crystals. The reverse of colonies were yellowish (#FFBF00), especially in the middle, and radially sulcate. Simplicillium formicidae was morphologically distinguished from other by having longer phialides and filiform to fusoid conidia, and by lacking octahedral crystals. Simplicillium lepidopterorum was morphologically distinguished from other species by having smaller, ellipsoidal to fusiform conidia, and by lacking octahedral crystals. The reverse of the colony was pale white. The three new species are likely to be nourished by plant to animal (especially insect) nutrients based on the evolutionary pattern of the Hypocreales, and they are described herein as being clearly distinct from other species in Simplicillium.
["Commensal fungi"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Clitopilus lampangensis (Agaricales, Entolomataceae), a new species from northern Thailand
A new species of agaricomycetes, Clitopilus lampangensis, is described based on collections from northern Thailand. This species was distinguished from previously described Clitopilus species by its pale yellow to grayish yellow pileus with the presence of wider caulocystidia. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on the data of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and the large subunit (LSU) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA, and the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (rbp2) genes, also support the finding that C. lampangensis is distinct from other species within the genus Clitopilus. A full description, color photographs, illustrations and a phylogenetic tree showing the position of C. lampangensis are provided.
["Agaricomycetes"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

Phylogeny and species delimitations in the entomopathogenic genus Beauveria (Hypocreales, Ascomycota), including the description of B. peruviensis sp. nov.
The genus Beauveria is considered a cosmopolitan anamorphic and teleomorphic genus of soilborne necrotrophic arthropod-pathogenic fungi that includes ecologically and economically important species. Species identification in Beauveria is difficult because of its structural simplicity and the lack of distinctive phenotypic variation. Therefore, the use of multi-locus sequence data is essential to establish robust species boundaries in addition to DNA-based species delimitation methods using genetic distance, coalescent, and genealogical concordance approaches (polyphasic approaches). In this regard, our study used multilocus phylogeny and five DNA-based methods to delimit species in Beauveria using three molecular makers. These polyphasic analyses allowed for the delimitation of 20–28 species in Beauveria, confirming cryptic diversity in five species (i.e. B. amorpha, B. bassiana, B. diapheromeriphila, and B. pseudobassiana) and supporting the description of B. peruviensis as a new taxon from northeastern Peru. The other five species were not evaluated as they did not have enough data (i.e. B. araneola, B. gryllotalpidicola, B. loeiensis, B. medogensis, and B. rudraprayagi). Our results demonstrate that the congruence among different methods in a polyphasic approach (e.g. genetic distance and coalescence methods) is more likely to show reliably supported species boundaries. Among the methods applied in this study, genetic distance, coalescent approaches, and multilocus phylogeny are crucial when establishing species boundaries in Beauveria.
["Beauveria"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Helminth infection and control", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

Microsatellite based genetic diversity of the widespread epiphytic lichen Usnea subfloridana (Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota) in Estonia: comparison of populations from the mainland and an island
Understanding the distribution of genetic patterns and structure is an essential target in population genetics and, thereby, important for conservation genetics. The main aim of our study was to investigate the population genetics of Usnea subfloridana, a widespread lichenised fungus, focusing on a comparison of genetic variation of its populations amongst three geographically remote and disconnected regions, in order to determine relationships amongst environmental data, variation in lichen secondary chemistry and microsatellite data in genotyped populations. In all, 928 Usnea thalli from 17 populations were genotyped using seven specific fungal microsatellite markers. Different measures of genetic diversity (allelic richness, private allelic richness, Nei’s unbiased genetic diversity and clonal diversity) were calculated and compared between lichen populations. Our results revealed a low genetic differentiation of U. subfloridana populations amongst three distant areas in Estonia and also a high level of gene flow. The results support suggestion of the long-range vegetative dispersal of subpendulous U. subfloridana via symbiotic propagules (soralia, isidia or fragments of thalli). Our study has also provided evidence that environmental variables, including mean annual temperature and geographical longitude, shape the genetic structure of U. subfloridana populations in Estonia. Additionally, a weak but statistically significant correlation between lichen chemotypes and microsatellite allele distribution was found in genotyped specimens.
["Chemotypes"]

Phylogeny and taxonomy of two new Plectosphaerella (Plectosphaerellaceae, Glomerellales) species from China
The genus Plectosphaerella is the largest genus in the family Plectosphaerellaceae. Some species are plant pathogens, whereas others are soil-borne. Seven Plectosphaerella isolates were collected from various locations in the southwest of China. Using multi-locus phylogenetic (LSU, ITS, EF1α, RPB2) analyses combined with morphological characteristics, two new species, Plectosphaerella guizhouensis sp. nov. and Plectosphaerella nauculaspora sp. nov. are described, illustrated and compared with related species.
["Filamentous fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Neotypification of Protoparmeliopsis garovaglii and molecular evidence of its occurrence in Poland and South America
Protoparmeliopsis garovaglii is a widely distributed placodioid lichen, which develops a distinctly rosette thallus, composed of elongated and strongly inflated to sinuous-plicate lobes. The taxon is characterised by high morphological plasticity and varied composition of secondary metabolites. However, the epithet was never typified. As such, the identity of P. garovaglii, in its strict sense, was unknown for a long time. Our phylogenetic ITS rDNA analyses, including newly generated sequences, show that European (Austria, Poland), North American (USA) and South American (Bolivia, Peru) specimens of P. garovaglii are placed in a strongly supported monophyletic clade, sister to P. muralis. We provide the first molecular evidence of the occurrence of P. garovaglii in South America (Bolivia and Peru) and the second record in Central Europe (Poland) was also provided. Furthermore, we neotypify P. garovaglii and it is reported here for the first time from Poland.
["Geographical distribution"]

Understanding the evolution of phenotypical characters in the Micarea prasina group (Pilocarpaceae) and descriptions of six new species within the group
Six new Micarea species are described from Europe. Phylogenetic analyses, based on three loci, i.e. mtSSU rDNA, Mcm7 and ITS rDNA and ancestral state reconstructions, were used to evaluate infra-group divisions and the role of secondary metabolites and selected morphological characters on the taxonomy in the M. prasina group. Two main lineages were found within the group. The Micarea micrococca clade consists of twelve species, including the long-known M. micrococca and the newly described M. microsorediata, M. nigra and M. pauli. Within this clade, most species produce methoxymicareic acid, with the exceptions of M. levicula and M. viridileprosa producing gyrophoric acid. The M. prasina clade includes the newly described M. azorica closely related to M. prasina s.str., M. aeruginoprasina sp. nov. and M. isidioprasina sp. nov. The species within this clade are characterised by the production of micareic acid, with the exception of M. herbarum which lacks any detectable substances and M. subviridescens that produces prasinic acid. Based on our reconstructions, it was concluded that the ancestor of the M. prasina group probably had a thallus consisting of goniocysts, which were lost several times during evolution, while isidia and soredia evolved independently at multiple times. Our research supported the view that the ancestor of M. prasina group did not produce any secondary substances, but they were gained independently in different lineages, such as methoxymicareic acid which is restricted to M. micrococca and allied species or micareic acid present in the M. prasina clade.
["Ancestral state reconstruction"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Phylogenetic and morphological classification of Ophiocordyceps species on termites from Thailand
Seven new species occurring on termites are added to Ophiocordyceps – O. asiatica, O. brunneirubra, O. khokpasiensis, O. mosingtoensis, O. pseudocommunis, O. pseudorhizoidea and O. termiticola, based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence. O. brunneirubra possesses orange to reddish-brown immersed perithecia on cylindrical to clavate stromata. O. khokpasiensis, O. mosingtoensis and O. termiticola have pseudo-immersed perithecia while O. asiatica, O. pseudocommunis and O. pseudorhizoidea all possess superficial perithecia, reminiscent of O. communis and O. rhizoidea. Phylogenetic analyses based on a combined dataset comprising the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) and the largest subunit (LSU) of the ribosomal DNA, partial regions of the elongation factor 1-α (TEF) and the largest and second largest subunits for the RNA polymerase genes (RPB1, RPB2) strongly support the placement of these seven new species in Ophiocordyceps.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Nectria-related fungi causing dieback and canker diseases in China, with Neothyronectria citri sp. nov. described
To clarify phylogenetic relationships amongst Nectria, Neothyronectria and Thyronectria in Nectriaceae, we examined detailed morphological characters and performed phylogenetic analyses of a concatenated dataset, based on the ITS, LSU, tef1 and tub2 DNA sequences of fungal specimens in China. Four species of nectria-related fungi were identified, i.e. Nectria dematiosa, N. pseudotrichia, Neothyronectria citri and Thyronectria pinicola. The newly described species, Neothyronectria citri, is characterised by its ascomatal wall with bright yellow scurf, unitunicate asci, each with 4-spored and ascospores allantoid to short-cylindrical, uniseriate, muriform, hyaline to slightly yellowish-brown. This species has affinities with other one known species of Neothyronectria and can be distinguished by molecular data.
["DNA phylogeny"]

Updated taxonomy of Lactifluus section Luteoli: L. russulisporus from Australia and L. caliendrifer from Thailand
Lactifluus russulisporus Dierickx & De Crop and Lactifluus caliendrifer Froyen & De Crop are described from eucalypt forests in Queensland, Australia and different forest types in Thailand, respectively. Both species have recently been published on Index Fungorum and fit morphologically and molecularly in L. sect. Luteoli, a section within L. subg. Gymnocarpi that encompasses species with alboochraceous basidiomes, white latex that stains brown and typical capitate elements in the pileipellis and/or marginal cells.
["Ectomycorrhizal fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Three new species of Conlarium from sugarcane rhizosphere in southern China
Three new species isolated from sugarcane rhizosphere in China, namely Conlarium baiseense sp. nov., C. nanningense sp. nov., and C. sacchari sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Molecular evidence (phylogenetic analysis of combined LSU, SSU, ITS and RPB2 sequence data) and phenotypical characters support their independent status from related and similar species. The new species, as dark spetate endophytes, inhabit sugarcane rhizosphere and can form a symbiosis with sugarcane.
["Conlariaceae"]

The genera Rugonectria and Thelonectria (Hypocreales, Nectriaceae) in China
Recent collections and herbarium specimens of Rugonectria and Thelonectria from different regions of China were examined. Using combined analyses of morphological and molecular data, 17 species are recognised including three species of Rugonectria and 14 species in Thelonectria. Amongst them, R. microconidia and T. guangdongensis are new to science. Rugonectria microconidia on mossy bark is characterised by superficial, yellow to orange, pyriform to subglobose perithecia with a warted surface; ellipsoidal to broadly ellipsoidal, striate, uniseptate ascospores; and allantoid to rod-shaped, aseptate microconidia. Thelonectria guangdongensis possesses bright red perithecia with a slightly roughened surface and a prominently dark papilla; ellipsoidal, smooth, uniseptate ascospores; and subcylindrical, slightly curved, multiseptate macroconidia. Morphological distinctions and sequence divergences between the new species and their close relatives are discussed. Name changes for the previously recorded species in China are noted.

Extensive sampling and high-throughput sequencing reveal Posidoniomyces atricolor gen. et sp. nov. (Aigialaceae, Pleosporales) as the dominant root mycobiont of the dominant Mediterranean seagrass Posidonia oceanica
Seagrasses provide invaluable ecosystem services yet very little is known about their root mycobiont diversity and distribution. Here we focused on the dominant Mediterranean seagrass Posidonia oceanica and assessed its root mycobiome at 32 localities covering most of the ecoregions in the NW Mediterranean Sea using light and scanning electron microscopy and tag-encoded 454-pyrosequencing. Microscopy revealed that the recently discovered dark septate endophytic association specific for P. oceanica is present at all localities and pyrosequencing confirmed that the P. oceanica root mycobiome is dominated by a single undescribed pleosporalean fungus, hitherto unknown from other hosts and ecosystems. Its numerous slow-growing isolates were obtained from surface-sterilised root segments at one locality and after prolonged cultivation, several of them produced viable sterile mycelium. To infer their phylogenetic relationships we sequenced and analysed the large (LSU) and small (SSU) subunit nrDNA, the ITS nrDNA and the DNA-directed RNA polymerase II (RPB2). The fungus represents an independent marine biotrophic lineage in the Aigialaceae (Pleosporales) and is introduced here as Posidoniomyces atricolor gen. et sp. nov. Its closest relatives are typically plant-associated saprobes from marine, terrestrial and freshwater habitats in Southeast Asia and Central America. This study expands our knowledge and diversity of the Aigialaceae, adds a new symbiotic lifestyle to this family and provides a formal name for the dominant root mycobiont of the dominant Mediterranean seagrass.
["dark septate endophytes"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two new Erythrophylloporus species (Boletaceae) from Thailand, with two new combinations of American species
Erythrophylloporus is a lamellate genus in the family Boletaceae that has been recently described from China based on E. cinnabarinus, the only known species. Typical characters of Erythrophylloporus are reddish-orange to yellowish-red basidiomata, including lamellae, bright yellow basal mycelium and smooth, broadly ellipsoid, ellipsoid to nearly ovoid basidiospores. During our survey on diversity of Boletaceae in Thailand, several yellowish-orange to reddish- or brownish-orange lamellate boletes were collected. Based on both morphological evidence and molecular analyses of a four-gene dataset (atp6, tef1, rpb2 and cox3), they were recognised as belonging in Erythrophylloporus and different from the already known species. Two new species, E. paucicarpus and E. suthepensis are therefore introduced from Thailand with detailed descriptions and illustrations. Moreover, two previously described Phylloporus species, P. aurantiacus and P. fagicola, were also revised and recombined in Erythrophylloporus. A key to all known Erythrophylloporus species is provided.

Elbamycella rosea gen. et sp. nov. (Juncigenaceae, Torpedosporales) isolated from the Mediterranean Sea
Elbamycella rosea sp. nov., introduced in the new genus Elbamycella, was collected in the Mediterranean Sea in association with the seagrass Posidonia oceanica and with the brown alga Padina pavonica. The affiliation of the new taxon to the family Juncigenaceae is supported by both morphology and phylogenetic inference based on a combined nrSSU and nrLSU sequence dataset. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian phylogeny proved Elbamycella gen. nov. as a distinct genus within Juncigenaceae. The new genus has been compared with closely related genera and is characterised by a unique suite of characters, such as ascospores with polar appendages and peculiar shape and dimension of ascomata and asci.
["Marine fungi"]

Octospora conidiophora (Pyronemataceae) – a new species from South Africa and the first report of anamorph in bryophilous Pezizales
Octospora conidiophora is described as a new species, based on collections from South Africa. It is characterised by apothecia with a distinct margin, smooth or finely warted ellipsoid ascospores, stiff, thick-walled hyaline hairs, warted mycelial hyphae and growth on pleurocarpous mosses Trichosteleum perchlorosum and Sematophyllum brachycarpum (Hypnales) on decaying wood in afromontane forests. It is the first species of bryophilous Pezizales in which an anamorph has been observed; it produces long, claviform, curved, hyaline and transversely septate conidia. Three other cryptic species of Octospora were detected using three molecular markers (LSU and SSU nrDNA and EF1α), but these could not be distinguished phenotypically. These are not described formally here and an informal species aggregate O. conidiophora agg. is established for them. The new species and finds of Lamprospora campylopodis growing on Campylopus pyriformis and Neottiella albocincta on Atrichum androgynum represent the first records of bryophilous Pezizales in South Africa.
["Afromontane forests"]

Cacaoporus, a new Boletaceae genus, with two new species from Thailand
We introduce a new genus, Cacaoporus, characterised by chocolate brown to dark brown basidiomata and hymenophore, tubes not separable from the pileus context, white to off-white basal mycelium, reddening when bruised, amygdaliform to ovoid spores and dark brown spore deposit. Phylogenetic analyses of a four-gene dataset (atp6, tef1, rpb2 and cox3) with a wide selection of Boletaceae showed that the new genus is monophyletic and sister to the genera Cupreoboletus and Cyanoboletus in the Pulveroboletus group. Two new species in the genus, C. pallidicarneus and C. tenebrosus are described from northern Thailand. Full descriptions and illustrations of the new genus and species are presented. The phylogeny also confirmed the reciprocal monophyly of Neoboletus and Sutorius, which further support the separation of these two genera.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two new species of Amanita sect. Phalloideae from Africa, one of which is devoid of amatoxins and phallotoxins
Two new species of Amanita sect. Phalloideae are described from tropical Africa (incl. Madagascar) based on both morphological and molecular (DNA sequence) data. Amanita bweyeyensis sp. nov. was collected, associated with Eucalyptus, in Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania. It is consumed by local people and chemical analyses showed the absence of amatoxins and phallotoxins in the basidiomata. Surprisingly, molecular analysis performed on the same specimens nevertheless demonstrated the presence of the gene sequence encoding for the phallotoxin phallacidin (PHA gene, member of the MSDIN family). The second species, Amanita harkoneniana sp. nov. was collected in Tanzania and Madagascar. It is also characterised by a complete PHA gene sequence and is suspected to be deadly poisonous. Both species clustered together in a well-supported terminal clade in multilocus phylogenetic inferences (including nuclear ribosomal partial LSU and ITS-5.8S, partial tef1-α, rpb2 and β-tubulin genes), considered either individually or concatenated. This, along with the occurrence of other species in sub-Saharan Africa and their phylogenetic relationships, are briefly discussed. Macro- and microscopic descriptions, as well as pictures and line drawings, are presented for both species. An identification key to the African and Madagascan species of Amanita sect. Phalloideae is provided. The differences between the two new species and the closest Phalloideae species are discussed.
["Ectomycorrhizal fungi"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Plant and animal studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A regional study of the genus Phyllopsora (Ramalinaceae) in Asia and Melanesia
Phyllopsora is a crustose to squamulose lichen genus inhabiting the bark of trees in moist tropical forests and rainforests. Species identification is generally challenging and is mainly based on ascospore morphology, thallus morphology and anatomy, vegetative dispersal units, and on secondary chemistry. While regional treatments of the genus have been conducted for Africa, South America and Australia, there exists no study focusing on the Asian and Melanesian species. Previously, 24 species of Phyllopsora s. str. have been reported from major national studies and checklists representing 13 countries. We have studied herbarium material of 625 Phyllopsora specimens from 18 countries using morphology, anatomy, secondary chemistry, and molecular data to investigate the diversity of Phyllopsora species in Asia and Melanesia. We report the occurrence of 28 species of Phyllopsora including the following three species described as new to science: P. sabahana from Malaysia, P. siamensis from Thailand and P. pseudocorallina from Asia and Africa. Eight species are reported as new to Asia. A key to the Asian and Melanesian species of Phyllopsora is provided.
["Malaysia"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Phylogenetic placement of Lepraria cryptovouauxii sp. nov. (Lecanorales, Lecanoromycetes, Ascomycota) with notes on other Lepraria species from South America
Lepraria cryptovouauxii is described as a new semicryptic species similar to L. vouauxii, from which it differs geographically (South America) and phylogenetically; both species differ in nucleotide position characters in nucITS barcoding marker. Lepraria harrisiana is reported as new to South America and L. nothofagi as new to Antarctica, Bolivia, and Peru. Lepraria incana (South American records are referred to L. aff. hodkinsoniana) and L. vouauxii (most South American records are referred to L. cryptovouauxii) should be excluded at least temporarily from the lichen list of South America. All records previously referred to as L. alpina from Bolivia and Peru belong to L. nothofagi. Most of Bolivian records of L. pallida belong to L. harrisiana. Lepraria borealis and L. caesioalba should be included in L. neglecta. Lepraria achariana, L. impossibilis, and L. sipmaniana are sequenced for the first time.
["lichenized fungi"]

A new species of Psathyrella (Psathyrellaceae, Agaricales) from Italy
Sporophores of a new Psathyrella species have been reported for the first time as growing at the base of Cladium mariscus culms in the Botanical Garden of the University of Calabria, Rende, Cosenza, southern Italy. The fungus was initially identified as P. thujina (= P. almerensis) by means of both ecology and macro- and microscopic characteristics of the basidiomes, then referred to P. cladii-marisci sp. nov. after extraction, amplification, purification and analysis of the rDNA ITS region. We came to this conclusion after comparing our specimen with the descriptions of the taxa available in the literature for the genus Psathyrella.
["Agaricomycetes"]

Four new East Asian species of Aleurodiscus with echinulate basidiospores
Four new species of Aleurodiscus sensu lato with echinulate basidiospores are described from East Asia: A. alpinus, A. pinicola, A. senticosus, and A. sichuanensis. Aleurodiscus alpinus is from northwest Yunnan of China where it occurs on Rhododendron in montane habitats. Aleurodiscus pinicola occurs on Pinus in montane settings in Taiwan and northwest Yunnan. Aleurodiscus senticosus is from subtropical Taiwan, where it occurs on angiosperms. Aleurodiscus sichuanensis is reported from southwest China on angiosperms in montane environments. Phylogenetic relationships of these four new species were inferred from analyses of a combined dataset consisting of three genetic markers, viz. 28S, nuc rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS), and a portion of the translation elongation factor 1-alpha gene, TEF1.

Erysiphe deutziicola sp. nov. (Erysiphaceae, Ascomycota), a powdery mildew species found on Deutzia parviflora (Hydrangeaceae) with unusual appendages
A powdery mildew (Erysiphales) has recently been collected on leaves of an ornamental shrub Deutzia parviflora in Baihua Mountain, Beijing, China. Microscopic examination of the chasmothecia suggested a species belonging to Erysiphe sect. Erysiphe, above all due to mycelioid chasmothecial appendages, although circinate apices of the appendages were rather in favour of Erysiphe sect. Uncinula, which is a fairly rare combination of appendage characteristics in Erysiphe. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS and 28S rDNA sequences demonstrated that the two examined powdery mildew collections on D. parviflora clustered together as an independent lineage within Erysiphe with 100% bootstrap support, representing a species of its own, which is phylogenetically allied to, but clearly distinct from Erysiphe deutziae and, in addition, morphologically quite different from all known Erysiphe species on hosts belonging to the Hydrangeaceae. The new species on D. parviflora is described as Erysiphe deutziicola.
["Erysiphales"]
["Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

A new record of Ganoderma tropicum (Basidiomycota, Polyporales) for Thailand and first assessment of optimum conditions for mycelia production
In this study a new record of Ganoderma tropicum is described as from Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. The fruiting body was collected on the base of a living Dipterocarpus tree. The sample is described on the basis of morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses, and compared with closely related taxa. Multigene phylogenetic analyses of LSU, ITS, and RPB2 highly support the placement of the G. tropicum group with isolates from China and Taiwan (Maximum likelihood 100%, Maximum parsimony 100%, and Bayesian posterior probabilities 1.00). The optimal media, pH, and temperature for mycelial growth of the G. tropicum strain KUMCC18-0046 was also investigated and is reported as: PDA, MEA, and YPD, at pH 7–8 and 25–28 °C, respectively. This is the first report on the successful growing conditions for mycelial production, but unfortunately fruiting could not be achieved.
["Cultivation"]

Blastosporium persicolor gen. et sp. nov., a new helotialean fungus
A new genus and species, Blastosporium persicolor, is described and illustrated from leaves of mildewed tobacco. It is characterised by branched, septate hyphae from which arise macronematous, unbranched or spaced branched conidiophores and mono- or polyblastic conidiogenous cells that produced solitary and blastocatenate, obovoid, oblong, ellipsoidal, allantoid, broad fusiform to irregular, unicellular, hyaline conidia. The phylogenetic analyses, based on the combined sequence data from the small and large nuclear subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU and LSU), placed B. persicolor in the Leotiomycetes class, Helotiales order.

Differential patterns of ophiostomatoid fungal communities associated with three sympatric Tomicus species infesting pines in south-western China, with a description of four new species
Bark beetles and their associated fungi, which cause forest decline and sometimes high mortality in large areas around the world, are of increasing concern in terms of forest health. Three Tomicus spp. (T. brevipilosus, T. minor and T. yunnanensis) infect branches and trunks of Pinus yunnanensis and P. kesiya in Yunnan Province, in south-western China. Tomicus spp. are well known as vectors of ophiostomatoid fungi and their co-occurrence could result in serious ecological and economic impact on local forest ecosystems. Nonetheless, knowledge about their diversity, ecology, including pathogenicity and potential economic importance is still quite rudimentary. Therefore, an extensive survey of ophiostomatoid fungi associated with these Tomicus species infesting P. yunnanensis and P. kesiya was carried out in Yunnan. Seven hundred and seventy-two strains of ophiostomatoid fungi were isolated from the adult beetles and their galleries. The strains were identified based on comparisons of multiple DNA sequences, including the nuclear ribosomal large subunit (LSU) region, the internal transcribed spacer regions 1 and 2, together with the intervening 5.8S gene (ITS) and the partial genes of β-tubulin (TUB2), elongation factor 1α (TEF1-α) and calmodulin (CAL). Phylogenetic analyses were performed using maximum parsimony (MP) as well as maximum likelihood (ML). Combinations of culture features, morphological characters and temperature-dependent growth rates were also employed for species identification. Eleven species belonging to five genera were identified. These included six known species, Esteya vermicola, Leptographium yunnanense, Ophiostoma brevipilosi, O. canum, O. minus and O. tingens and four novel taxa, described as Graphilbum anningense, O. aggregatum, Sporothrix pseudoabietina and S. macroconidia. A residual strain was left unidentified as Ophiostoma sp. 1. The overall ophiostomatoid community was by far dominated by three species, representing 87.3% of the total isolates; in decreasing order, these were O. canum, O. brevipilosi and O. minus. Furthermore, the ophiostomatoid community of each beetle, although harbouring a diversity of ophiostomatoid species, was differentially dominated by a single fungal species; Ophiostoma canum was preferentially associated with and dominated the ophiostomatoid community of T. minor, whereas O. brevipilosi and O. minus were exclusively associated with and dominated the ophiostomatoid communities of T. brevipilosus and T. yunnanensis, respectively. Eight additional species, representing the remaining 12.7% of the total isolates, were marginal or sporadic. These results suggested that sympatric Tomicus populations are dominated by distinct species showing some level of specificity or even exclusivity.
["Esteya vermicola"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Re-collection of Dermea prunus in China, with a description of D. chinensis sp. nov.
Dermea was protected against its synonym, Foveostroma, due to its well-circumscribed generic concept and more frequent use. We describe and illustrate Dermea chinensis sp. nov. based on its morphological characteristics and a molecular analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (LSU) sequence data. Dermea chinensis is isolated from Betula albosinensis with sexual and asexual morphs and can be distinguished from D. molliuscula on Betula trees by its aseptate and wider ascospores. The connection between the two morphs is proved based on sequence data. Here, we describe the asexual morph of D. pruni for the first time based on morphological and molecular data from the same host and country of origin, and compare it with other species of Prunus.

Striatiguttulaceae, a new pleosporalean family to accommodate Longicorpus and Striatiguttula gen. nov. from palms
Palms represent the most morphological diverse monocotyledonous plants and support a vast array of fungi. Recent examinations of palmicolous fungi in Thailand led to the discovery of a group of morphologically similar and interesting taxa. A polyphasic approach based on morphology, multi-gene phylogenetic analyses and divergence time estimates supports the establishment of a novel pleosporalean family Striatiguttulaceae, which diversified approximately 39 (20–63) MYA (crown age) and 60 (35–91) MYA (stem age). Striatiguttulaceae is characterized by stromata or ascomata with a short to long neck, trabeculate pseudoparaphyses and fusiform to ellipsoidal, 1–3-septate ascospores, with longitudinal striations and paler end cells, surrounded by a mucilaginous sheath. Multi-gene phylogenetic analysis showed that taxa of Striatiguttulaceae form a well-supported and distinct monophyletic clade in Pleosporales, and related to Ligninsphaeriaceae and Pseudoastrosphaeriellaceae. However, these families can be morphologically demarcated by the slit-like ascomata and extremely large ascospores in Ligninsphaeriaceae and the rather narrow fusiform ascospores in Pseudoastrosphaeriellaceae. Eight strains of Striatiguttulaceae formed two monophyletic sub-clades, which can be recognized as Longicorpus gen. nov. and Striatiguttula gen. nov. Morphologically, the genus Longicorpus can be differentiated from Striatiguttula by its elongated immersed ascomata and fusiform ascospores with relatively larger middle cells and paler end cells. Two new species Striatiguttula nypae and S. phoenicis, and one new combination, Longicorpus striataspora are introduced with morphological details, and phylogenetic relationships are discussed based on DNA sequence data.

Neoboletus antillanus sp. nov. (Boletaceae), first report of a red-pored bolete from the Dominican Republic and insights on the genus Neoboletus
Neoboletus antillanus sp. nov. appears to be the only red-pored bolete known from the Dominican Republic to date. It is reported as a novel species to science based on collections gathered in a neotropical lowland mixed broadleaved woodland. A detailed morphological description, color images of fresh basidiomes in habitat and line drawings of the main anatomical features are provided and relationships with phylogenetically and phenotypically similar taxa are discussed. Three genomic regions (nrITS, nrLSU/28S and rpb2) have been sequenced in order to reinforce the recognition of the new species and to elucidate its taxonomic affiliation within Neoboletus.
["Boletales"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Epitypification of the Central African Cantharellus densifolius and C. luteopunctatus allows for the recognition of two additional species
Cantharellus densifolius and C. luteopunctatus are epitypified on the basis of recently collected specimens from the Central African rain forest that correspond in every way to their respective original descriptions. Sequences obtained from these new collections demonstrate that both epitypes represent distinct species that belong in different subclades of Cantharellus subg. Rubrinus. Previously, the name C. densifolius has been consistently misapplied to more or less similar species from the African woodland area, including C. densilamellatus sp. nov. which is described here, In addition, C. tomentosoides sp. nov., a rain forest species that is easily confused with C. densifolius, is described.
["Cantharellales"]

Two new endophytic Colletotrichum species from Nothapodytes pittosporoides in China
Two new endophytic species, Colletotrichum jishouense sp. nov. and. C. tongrenense sp. nov. were isolated from Nothapodytes pittosporoides in Guizhou and Hunan provinces, China. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of these new taxa are provided and morphological comparisons with similar taxa are explored. Phylogenetic analysis with combined sequence data (ITS, GAPDH, ACT and TUB2) demonstrated that both species formed distinct clades in this genus. This is the first record of Colletotrichum species from N. pittosporoides in China.

Stephanospora mayana (Stephanosporaceae, Russulales), a new sequestrate fungus from Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Stephanospora mayana is presented as a new species from the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. This species is distinguished by the yellowish pileus, basidiospores with a small corona (4–6 × 1–2.5 µm), and variable size (8.0–17.0 × 6.0–11.0), thin pileus (21–40 µm) and the ecological association to lowland forest with Haematoxylum campechianum, Gymnopodium floribundum, Coccoloba diversifolia, Metopium brownei and Pinus caribaea. It differs from the American species of Stephanospora, like S. michoacanensis and S. chilensis, by its larger basidiospores. Descriptions, photographs and discussions are presented.
["Campeche"]

Species of Dendrostoma (Erythrogloeaceae, Diaporthales) associated with chestnut and oak canker diseases in China
Dendrostoma was recently proposed in Erythrogloeaceae (Diaporthales, Sordariomycetes), with all known members recorded as being plant pathogenic on economically important tree hosts. During our collections of Dendrostoma species in China, mild to severe canker symptoms were observed on sweet chestnut (Castanea mollissima) and oak (Quercus spp.) trees. Dead and dying plant tissues exhibiting Dendrostoma canker symptoms were sampled for fungal isolation. A total of 37 Dendrostoma isolates were obtained and analysed using morphological characteristics and molecular data (ITS, LSU, RPB2, TEF1-α). Based on these data, 10 novel clades could be distinguished, which also proved to represent morphologically distinct species described here as Dendrostoma aurorae, D. castaneae, D. castaneicola, D. chinense, D. dispersum, D. parasiticum, D. qinlingense, D. quercus, D. shaanxiense and D. shandongense spp. nov. A key to species of the genus is also provided.
["Canker"]

Two new species of Verruconis from Hainan, China
Two new species of the genus Verruconis, V. hainanensis and V. pseudotricladiata, were described using combined morphological and DNA sequence data. The DNA sequences of respective strains including nuclear ribosomal DNA genes (nuSSU, ITS, nuLSU) and fragments of three protein-coding genes (ACT1, BT2, TEF1) were sequenced and compared with those from closely-related species to genera Ochroconis and Verruconis (Family Sympoventuriaceae, Order Venturiales). Morphologically, both species showed typical ampulliform conidiophores and conidiogenous cells, features not seen in other species of Verruconis. The conidia of V. hainanensis are fusiform and those of V. pseudotricladiata are Y or T shaped, similar to old members of a closely-related genus Scolecobasidium. The addition of these two new species provides a new perspective on the heterogeneity of Scolecobasidium.
["Aquatic hyphomycetes"]

Biatora alnetorum (Ramalinaceae, Lecanorales), a new lichen species from western North America
Biatora alnetorum S. Ekman & Tønsberg, a lichenised ascomycete in the family Ramalinaceae (Lecanorales, Lecanoromycetes), is described as new to science. It is distinct from other species of Biatora in the combination of mainly three-septate ascospores, a crustose thallus forming distinctly delimited soralia that develop by disintegration of convex pustules and the production of atranorin in the thallus and apothecia. The species is known from the Pacific Northwest of North America, where it inhabits the smooth bark of Alnus alnobetula subsp. sinuata and A. rubra. Biatora alnetorum is also a new host for the lichenicolous ascomycete Sclerococcum toensbergii Diederich.
["Biatora"]

Phylogenetic and morphological studies in Xylodon (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) with the addition of four new species
Xylodon (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) is the largest segregate genus of Hyphodontia s.l. Based on molecular and morphological data, 77 species are accepted in Xylodon to date. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS and 28S sequences, including 38 new ITS and 20 28S sequences of Xylodon species, revealed four species new to science. The new taxa X. exilis, X. filicinus, X. follis and X. pseudolanatus from Taiwan, Nepal, Réunion, Belize, and USA are described and illustrated. In addition, species concepts for Odontia vesiculosa from New Zealand and Xylodon lanatus from U.S.A. are revised and the new name X. vesiculosus is proposed. Phylogenetic analyses of the ITS region placed X. spathulatus, X. bubalinus and X. chinensis in a strongly supported clade and demonstrated that they are conspecific. Palifer and Odontiopsis are synonymised under Xylodon based on morphological and sequence data. The following new combinations are proposed: X. erikssonii, X. gamundiae, X. hjortstamii, X. hyphodontinus, X. septocystidiatus and X. verecundus. Line drawings of X. cystidiatus, X. hyphodontinus, X. lanatus and X. vesiculosus, as well as photographs of X. raduloides basidiomata, are provided. A key to X. lanatus and similar species is presented.

Four new species of Tremella (Tremellales, Basidiomycota) based on morphology and DNA sequence data
In the present study, a total of 33 Tremella specimens in China were collected and examined using molecular phylogenetic analysis based on a combined sequence dataset of the nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and nuc 28S rDNA D1/D2 domain in conjunction with the morphological characters. Four new species, namely Tremella basidiomaticola, T. cheejenii, T. erythrina, and T. salmonea, are newly described based on their distinct phylogenetic relationships and the comparison of morphological characters with known Tremella species. Our results indicate a high species diversity of Tremella waiting to be discovered.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Tuber pulchrosporum sp. nov., a black truffle of the Aestivum clade (Tuberaceae, Pezizales) from the Balkan peninsula
Knowledge on the diversity of hypogeous sequestrate ascomycetes is still limited in the Balkan Peninsula. A new species of truffle, Tuber pulchrosporum, is described from Greece and Bulgaria. Specimens were collected from habitats dominated by various oak species (i.e. Quercus ilex, Q. coccifera, Q. robur) and other angiosperms. They are morphologically characterised by subglobose, ovoid to irregularly lobed, yellowish-brown to dark brown ascomata, usually with a shallow basal cavity and surface with fissures and small, dense, almost flat, trihedral to polyhedral warts. Ascospores are ellipsoid to subfusiform, uniquely ornamented, crested to incompletely reticulate and are produced in (1–)2–8-spored asci. Hair-like, hyaline to light yellow hyphae protrude from the peridium surface. According to the outcome of ITS rDNA sequence analysis, this species forms a distinct well-supported group in the Aestivum clade, with T. panniferum being the closest phylogenetic taxon.

More pieces to a huge puzzle: Two new Escovopsis species from fungus gardens of attine ants
Escovopsis (Ascomycota: Hypocreales, Hypocreaceae) is the only known parasite of the mutualistic fungi cultivated by fungus-growing ants (Formicidae: Myrmicinae: Attini: Attina, the “attines”). Despite its ecological role, the taxonomy and systematics of Escovopsis have been poorly addressed. Here, based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses with three molecular markers (internal transcribed spacer, large subunit ribosomal RNA and the translation elongation factor 1-alpha), we describe Escovopsis clavatus and E. multiformis as new species isolated from fungus gardens of Apterostigma ant species. Our analysis shows that E. clavatus and E. multiformis belong to the most derived Escovopsis clade, whose main character is the presence of conidiophores with vesicles. Nevertheless, the most outstanding feature of both new species is the presence of a swollen region in the central hypha of the conidiophore named swollen cell, which is absent in all previously described Escovopsis species. The less derived Escovopsis clades lack vesicles and their phylogenetic position within the Hypocreaceae still remains unclear. Considering the high genetic diversity in Escovopsis, the description of these new species adds barely two pieces to a huge taxonomic puzzle; however, this discovery is an important piece for building the systematics of this group of fungi.
["Hypocreales"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Neostagonosporella sichuanensis gen. et sp. nov. (Phaeosphaeriaceae, Pleosporales) on Phyllostachys heteroclada (Poaceae) from Sichuan Province, China
Neostagonosporella sichuanensis sp. nov. was found on Phyllostachys heteroclada collected from Sichuan Province in China and is introduced in a new genus Neostagonosporella gen. nov. in this paper. Evidence for the placement of the new taxon in the family Phaeosphaeriaceae is supported by morphology and phylogenetic analysis of a combined LSU, SSU, ITS and TEF 1-α DNA sequence dataset. Maximum-likelihood, maximum-parsimony and Bayesian inference phylogenetic analyses support Neostagonosporella as a distinct genus within this family. The new genus is compared with related genera of Phaeosphaeriaceae and full descriptions and illustrations are provided. Neostagonosporella is characterised by its unique suite of characters, such as multiloculate ascostromata and cylindrical to fusiform, transversely multiseptate, straight or curved ascospores, which are widest at the central cells. Conidiostromata are multiloculate, fusiform to long fusiform or rhomboid, with two types conidia; macroconidia vermiform or subcylindrical to cylindrical, transversely multiseptate, sometimes curved, almost equidistant between septa and microconidia oval, ellipsoidal or long ellipsoidal, aseptate, rounded at both ends. An updated phylogeny of the Phaeosphaeriaceae based on multigene analysis is provided.
["Medieval Iberian Studies", "Galician and Iberian cultural studies", "Archaeological and Historical Studies"]

New species and records of Pyxine (Caliciaceae) in China
In this study, the diversity of Pyxine Fr. in China was assessed based on morphological and chemical traits and molecular data are inferred from ITS and mtSSU sequences. Nineteen species were recognised, including three that are new to science (i.e. P. flavicans M. X. Yang & Li S. Wang, P. hengduanensis M. X. Yang & Li S. Wang and P. yunnanensis M. X. Yang & Li S. Wang) and three records new to China were found (i.e. P. cognata Stirt., P. himalayensis Awas. and P. minuta Vain.). Pyxine yunnanensis is diagnosed by the small size of the apothecia, a white medulla of the stipe and the presence of lichexanthone. Pyxine flavicans is characterised by broad lobes, a pale yellow medulla of the stipe and the presence of atranorin. Pyxine hengduanensis can be distinguished by its pale yellow medulla, marginal labriform soralia and the absence of atranorin. Detailed descriptions of each new species are presented, along with a key to the known species of Pyxine in China.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Apophysomyces thailandensis (Mucorales, Mucoromycota), a new species isolated from soil in northern Thailand and its solubilization of non-soluble minerals
A new species of soil fungi, described herein as Apophysomyces thailandensis, was isolated from soil in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. Morphologically, this species was distinguished from previously described Apophysomyces species by its narrower trapezoidal sporangiospores. A physiological determination showed that A. thailandensis differs from other Apophysomyces species by its assimilation of D-turanose, D-tagatose, D-fucose, L-fucose, and nitrite. A phylogenetic analysis, performed using combined internal transcribed spacers (ITS), the large subunit (LSU) of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) regions, and a part of the histone 3 (H3) gene, lends support to our the finding that A. thailandensis is distinct from other Apophysomyces species. The genetic distance analysis of the ITS sequence supports A. thailandensis as a new fungal species. A full description, illustrations, phylogenetic tree, and taxonomic key to the new species are provided. Its metal minerals solubilization ability is reported.
["Apophysomyces"]

Description of Aeminiaceae fam. nov., Aeminium gen. nov. and Aeminium ludgeri sp. nov. (Capnodiales), isolated from a biodeteriorated art-piece in the Old Cathedral of Coimbra, Portugal
When colonizing stone monuments, microcolonial black fungi are considered one of the most severe and resistant groups of biodeteriorating organisms, posing a very difficult challenge to conservators and biologists working with cultural heritage preservation. During an experimental survey aimed to isolate fungi from a biodeteriorated limestone art piece in the Old Cathedral of Coimbra, Portugal (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), an unknown microcolonial black fungus was retrieved. The isolated fungus was studied through a complete examination based on multilocus phylogeny of a combined dataset of ITS rDNA, LSU and rpb2, in conjunction with morphological, physiological, and ecological characteristics. This integrative analysis allows for the description of a new family, Aeminiaceae fam. nov., a new genus Aeminium gen. nov., and a new species, Aeminium ludgeri sp. nov., in the order Capnodiales.
["Biodeterioration"]
["Building materials and conservation", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Lactifluus bicapillus (Russulales, Russulaceae), a new species from the Guineo-Congolian rainforest
The milkcap genus Lactifluus is one of the most common ectomycorrhizal genera within Central African rainforests. During a field trip to the Dja Biosphere Reserve in Cameroon, a new Lactifluus species was found. Molecular and morphological analyses indicate that the species belongs to Lactifluus section Xerampelini and we formally describe it here as Lactifluus bicapillus sp. nov.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Morphology and multigene phylogeny of Talaromyces amyrossmaniae, a new synnematous species belonging to the section Trachyspermi from India
A new Talaromyces species, T. amyrossmaniae, isolated from decaying fruit and litter of Terminalia bellerica, is described and illustrated. On the natural substrate, the new species produces determinate synnemata, with a well-defined, vivid orange red to orange red cylindrical stipe, and a greyish green capitulum. Conidiophores are typically biverticillate, or sometimes have subterminal branches, with acerose phialides that produce globose to subglobose, smooth to slightly roughened conidia. Multigene phylogenetic analyses based on the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), and partial sequences of β-tubulin (BenA), calmodulin (CaM), and DNA directed RNA polymerase second large subunit (RPB2) genes, along with morphological characterization, revealed that these isolates are distinct and form a unique lineage of Talaromyces in section Trachyspermi, closely allied to T. aerius, T. albobiverticillius, T. heiheensis, T. erythromellis, and T. solicola. The new species T. amyrossmaniae is the first species in section Trachyspermi with determinate synnemata.
["BenA"]

Two additional species of Gymnopus (Euagarics, Basidiomycotina)
For more than a decade, a combination of molecular phylogenetic analyses and morphological characterisation has led to a renovation of the Omphalotaceae, especially of Gymnopus sensu lato. Numerous new genera have been proposed, but Gymnopus sensu stricto has also seen an accretion of species and species complexes. In this manuscript, two species are added to Gymnopus sensu stricto within Section Androsacei.
["Fungal barcode"]

Gliophorus glutinosus sp. nov. (Hygrophoraceae, Agaricales) from Eastern Himalayan region of India
An interesting species of the genus Gliophorus (sect. Glutinosae), collected from Sikkim Himalaya in India, is described here as G. glutinosus sp. nov. after thorough morphological examination and phylogenetic analysis. The species is mainly characterised by its strongly glutinous basidiomata throughout, particularly on the twisted stipe, decurrent lamellae with glutinous edge, gelatinised cheilocystidia, presence of pleuropseudocystidia and absence of clamps in hyphae of the pileipellis. This communication includes detailed morphological description, illustrations, comparison with the allied taxa, nrITS based phylogeny of this novel taxon and a key to the species under Gliophorus sect. Glutinosae.

Melanospora (Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota) and its relatives
The order Melanosporales comprises a large group of ascomycetes, most of them mycoparasites, characterized by the production of usually ostiolate, translucent ascomata, unitunicate asci, and unicellular, pigmented ascospores with germ pores or germ slits. The most studied taxa are Melanospora and Sphaerodes, but the boundaries with other morphologically closely related genera are not well resolved. In this study, the taxonomy of Melanospora and related taxa have been re-evaluated based on the analysis of nuclear rDNA, actin and elongation factor genes sequences of fresh isolates and numerous type and reference strains. The genus Melanospora has been restricted to species with ostiolate ascoma whose neck is composed of intermixed hyphae, and with a phialidic asexual morph. Microthecium has been re-established for species of Melanospora and Sphaerodes without a typical ascomatal neck or, if present, being short and composed of angular cells similar to those of the ascomatal wall, and usually producing bulbils. Three new genera have been proposed: Dactylidispora, possessing ascospores with a raised rim surrounding both terminal germ pores; Echinusitheca, with densely setose, dark ascomata; and Pseudomicrothecium, characterized by ascospores with indistinct germ pores. Dichotomous keys to identify the accepted genera of the Melanosporales, and keys to discriminate among the species of Melanospora and Microthecium, as well as a brief description of the accepted species of both genera, are also provided.
["Ceratostomataceae"]

Neoprotoparmelia gen. nov. and Maronina (Lecanorales, Protoparmelioideae): species description and generic delimitation using DNA barcodes and phenotypical characters
Multilocus phylogenetic studies revealed a high level of cryptic diversity within the lichen-forming fungal genus Maronina (Protoparmelioideae, Parmeliaceae). Coalescent-based species delimitation suggested that most of the cryptic molecular lineages warranted recognition as separate species. Here we study the morphology and chemistry of these taxa and formally describe eight new species based on phenotypical and molecular characters. Further, we evaluate the use of ITS rDNA as a DNA barcode for identifying species in this genus. For the first time, we obtained an ITS sequence of Maronina australiensis, the type species of the genus and showed that it is phylogenetically not closely related to species currently placed in Maronina or Protoparmelia. We assembled a dataset of 66 ITS sequences to assess the interspecies genetic distances amongst the twelve Maronina species using ITS as DNA barcode. We found that Maronina and Protoparmelia form a supported monophyletic group whereas M. australiensis is sister to both. We therefore propose a new genus Neoprotoparmelia to accommodate the tropical-subtropical species within Protoparmelioideae, with Neoprotoparmelia corallifera as the type, N. amerisidiata, N. australisidiata, N. brasilisidiata, N. capensis, N. crassa, N. pauli, N. plurisporibadia and N. siamisidiata as new species and N. capitata, N. isidiata, N. multifera, N. orientalis and N. pulchra as new proposed combinations. We provide a key to Neoprotoparmelia and confirm the use of ITS for accurately identifying species in this group.

Three new species of soil-inhabiting Trichoderma from southwest China
Fungi in the genus Trichoderma are widely distributed in China, including in Yunnan province. In this study, we report three new soil-inhabiting species in Trichoderma, named as T. kunmingense, T. speciosum and T. zeloharzianum. Their colony and mycelial morphology, including features of asexual states, were described. For each species, their DNA sequences were obtained from three loci, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of the ribosomal DNA, the translation elongation factor 1-α encoding gene (tef1) and the gene encoding the second largest nuclear RNA polymerase subunit (rpb2). Our analyses indicated that the three new species showed consistent divergence amongst each other and from other known and closely related species. Amongst the three, T. speciosum and T. kunmingense belong to the Viride Clade. Specifically, T. speciosum is related to three species – T. hispanicum, T. samuelsii and T. junci and is characterised by tree-like conidiophores, generally paired branches, curved terminal branches, spindly to fusiform phialides and subglobose to globose conidia. In contrast, T. kunmingense morphologically resembles T. asperellum and T. yunnanense and is distinguished by its pyramidal conidiophores, ampulliform to tapered phialides, discrete branches and ovoidal, occasionally ellipsoid, smooth-walled conidia. The third new species, T. zeloharzianum, is a new member of the Harzianum Clade and is closely associated with T. harzianum, T. lixii and T. simmonsii but distinguished from them by having smaller, subglobose to globose, thin-walled conidia.
["Rhizospheric fungi"]

Bacidia albogranulosa (Ramalinaceae, lichenized Ascomycota), a new sorediate lichen from European old-growth forests
A sterile sorediate member of the genus Bacidia s.str., B. albogranulosa, is described here as a new species. It is characterised by its very thin, pale grey thallus, white, farinose to granular soredia, the production of atranorin and the absence of ascomata and pycnidia. It grows on slightly acidic to subneutral bark of broad-leaved trees in old-growth forests in the Czech Republic, Poland, Ukraine and Russia (European part of the Caucasus). The new species is well characterised by its morphology, secondary chemistry and molecular (nrITS, mtSSU) traits. It is closely related to other atranorin-containing species in the genus, Bacidia diffracta, B. polychroa and B. suffusa.
["Atranorin"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Three new species of Entoloma subgenus Pouzarella from China based on morphological and molecular data
In the present paper, three additional species of Entoloma subgenus Pouzarella viz. E. erectoides, E. griseocarpum and E. rubropilosum are described from China. E. rubropilosum is a typical species in section Pouzarella; E. griseocarpum and E. erectoides are members of sect. Dysthales. The taxa are further confirmed by ITS, RPB2, LSU and mtSSU analyses and phylogenetic relationships with other Entoloma subgen. Pouzarella species are also discussed. ITS sequence analysis showed that the sizes of the entire ITS region and ITS1 are remarkably divergent, while the ITS2 is conserved in length within Entoloma subgen. Pouzarella. Molecular analyses, based on the combined dataset, demonstrated that species diversity of subgen. Pouzarella in China is much higher than previously thought, in the present study twenty phylogenetic species from China are taken into consideration. On the other hand, morphological and molecular analyses suggested that classification of Entoloma subgen. Pouzarella probably has to be fundamentally re-adjusted based on additional data.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Two new African siblings of Pulveroboletus ravenelii (Boletaceae)
This paper sorts out the taxonomy of species affiliated with Pulveroboletus ravenelii in the Guineo-soudanian and Zambezian woodlands of Africa. Morphological and genetic characters of African Pulveroboletus collections were studied and compared to those of North American and Asian species. A phylogenetic analysis showed that the African specimens form a subclade, sister to the Asian and American taxa. Although clamp connections have previously never been reported from Pulveroboletus, all specimens of the African subclade show very small clamp connections. Two new African species, Pulveroboletus africanus sp. nov. and P. sokponianus sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Comments concerning morphology and identification, as well as distribution and ecology, are given for both species.
["Boletales"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

New host associations and a novel species for the gall-inducing acacia rust genus Ravenelia in South Africa
Trees in the genus Vachellia (previously Acacia) are commonly infected by the gall-inducing rusts Ravenelia macowaniana and R. evansii. Rust galls bearing aecial infections and relating uredinial and telial infections on the leaves of nine Vachellia species not previously recorded to be infected by Ravenelia spp. have recently been collected in South Africa. The rust fungi causing these infections were characterised using molecular phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequence data of the LSU and ITS rDNA regions as well as morphological examinations. The host range of R. macowaniana and R. evansii was thus re-assessed and extended from four to nine species and from one to three species, respectively. Application of Principal Component Analyses (PCA) of telial morphological characters provided evidence of an effect of the host species on the teliospore morphology in R. evansii, but only minor effects in R. macowaniana. A novel gall-inducing Ravenelia sp. closely related to R. macowaniana, was found on Vachellia xanthophloea and it is described here as R. xanthophloeae.
["Ravenelia xanthophloeae sp. nov."]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Taxonomic circumscription of melanconis-like fungi causing canker disease in China
Melanconis-like species comprise latent fungal pathogens with a wide range of woody hosts. Taxonomy of these pathogens is difficult due to their uninformative descriptions and similar asexual morphology. Based on molecular phylogenies, many species of this group were placed in various families of Diaporthales. In this study, eight species of melanconis-like fungi were isolated from Betula albosinensis, B. platyphylla (Betulaceae), Cornus controversa (Cornaceae), Corylus mandshurica (Betulaceae) and Juglans regia (Juglandaceae) in China. These species were phylogenetically placed in three families of Diaporhthales, i.e. Juglanconis juglandina, J. oblonga (Juglanconidaceae), Melanconiella betulicola sp. nov., M. corylina sp. nov. (Melanconiellaceae), Melanconis betulae, Ms. itoana, Ms. stilbostoma (Melanconidaceae) and one new genus, Sheathospora (Melanconiellaceae). Sheathospora is proposed to accommodate Melanconiella cornuta with conical and discrete pycnidia with aseptate, hyaline, cylindrical to ellipsoidal conidia with distinct hyaline sheath on branches of Cornus controversa. Combined analyses of ITS, LSU, CAL, RPB2 and TEF1-α sequence data were used to construct the molecular phylogeny. Additionally, we provided separate phylogenetic trees for three families (Juglanconidaceae, Melanconidaceae and Melanconiellaceae) to show the species distribution of melanconis-like fungi in China.
["Diaporthales"]

Detection of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi associated with pecan (Carya illinoinensis) trees by molecular and morphological approaches
Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal community associated with pecan (Carya illinoinensis) roots and rhizospheric soils was assessed by spore isolation and morphological characterisation and by pyrosequencing of AM molecular markers. The AM fungal community associated with pecan growing in the field, was always more diverse than that associated with pecan growing in containers. This was not observed when AM richness was studied, suggesting that soil disturbance by a reduction in host plant richness leads to a less equitable distribution of AM fungal species, in contrast to natural soils. The chosen primers (AMV4.5F/AMDGR) for pyrosequencing showed high AM fungal specificity. Based on 97% sequence similarity, 49 operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) were obtained and, amongst these, 41 MOTUs corresponded to the Glomeromycota phylum. The number of obtained AM sequences ranged from 2164, associated with field samples, to 5572 obtained from pecan trap pot culture samples, defining 30 and 29 MOTUs, respectively. Richness estimated by conventional species identification was 6 and 9 AM fungal species in soil and pot samples, respectively. Claroideoglomus lamellosum, Funneliformis mosseae and Entrophospora infrequens were the only taxa detected using both techniques. Predominant sequences in the pecan rhizosphere samples, such as Rhizoglomus irregulare and other less abundant (Dominikia iranica, Dominikia indica, Sclerocystis sinuosa, Paraglomus laccatum), were detected only by pyrosequencing. Detection of AM fungal species based on spore morphology, in combination with molecular approaches, provides a more comprehensive estimate of fungal community composition.
["Carya"]

Six new species and reports of Hydnum (Cantharellales) from eastern North America
Five species of Hydnum have been generally recognized from eastern North America based on morphological recognition: H. albidum, H. albomagnum, H. repandum and varieties, H. rufescens, and H. umbilicatum. Other unique North American species, such as H. caespitosum and H. washingtonianum, are either illegitimately named or considered synonymous with European taxa. Here, seventeen phylogenetic species of Hydnum are detected from eastern North America based on a molecular phylogenetic survey of ITS sequences from herbarium collections and GenBank data, including environmental sequences. Based on current distribution results, sixteen of these species appear endemic to North America. Of these, six species are described as new: H. alboaurantiacum, H. cuspidatum, H. ferruginescens, H. subconnatum, H. subtilior, and H. vagabundum. Geographic range extensions and taxonomic notes are provided for five additional species recently described as new from eastern North America. A new name, H. geminum, is proposed for H. caespitosum Banning ex Peck, non Valenti. Overall, species of Hydnum are best recognized by a combination of morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Taxonomic descriptions are provided for seventeen species, including epitype designations for H. albidum, H. albomagnum, and H. umbilicatum, taxa described more than 100 years ago, and molecular annotation of the isotype of H. washingtonianum. Photographs and a key to eastern North American Hydnum species are presented.

A new species of Cintractiella (Ustilaginales) from the volcanic island of Kosrae, Caroline Islands, Micronesia
Cintractiella is an unusual genus of smut fungi containing two described species that produce sori as adventitious gall-like spikelets on members of tribe Hypolytreae (subfam. Mapanioideae, Cyperaceae). In September 200, during a botanical expedition on the volcanic island of Kosrae located in the eastern Caroline Islands and within the Federated States of Micronesia, a specimen of Mapania pacifica was collected displaying Cintractiella-like sori in adventitious spikelets on the host leaves. Sori were hypophyllous, occurring in groups of spikelets composed of olivaceous-brown scale-like leaves, 1–1.5 mm wide and up to 6 mm long. Microscopic comparison with the protologue and drawings of the type material of C. lamii show several differences in teliospore and sori characters between it and the newly collected material on Mapania. To our knowledge, this represents only the second known collection of any member of Cintractiella on vegetative organs of Hypolytreae and a third species for this genus and the only known smut species infecting Mapania, herein described as Cintractiella kosraensis sp. nov.
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two new species of Geejayessia (Hypocreales) from Asia as evidenced by morphology and multi-gene analyses
Two new species of Geejayessia are introduced, based on materials collected from central China. Geejayessia clavata sp. nov. is characterised by gregarious, red brownish to dark red, oval-subglobose to globose perithecia that are formed on a basal stroma; (4–7-)8-spored cylindrical asci; ellipsoidal or rarely broadly ellipsoidal, uniseptate, smooth or finely verruculose ascospores; clavate, aseptate microconidia and absence of macroconidia. Geejayessia sinica sp. nov. is characterised by red to bright red, pyriform, subglobose to globose, perithecia on a basal stroma, collapsing laterally when dry; subcylindrical to clavate asci with a rounded apex; ellipsoidal, uniseptate ascospores; and falcate, multiseptate macroconidia with an arcuate tip. Morphological distinctions of the new species from the related fungi are discussed. This is the first report of Geejayessia from Asia.
["Cosmospora-like fungi"]

A new species of the lichenised genus Anamylopsora (Baeomycetaceae, Baeomycetales) from Tengger Desert of China
The monotypic lichenised genus Anamylopsora (Baeomycetaceae, Baeomycetales), with its single species A. pulcherrima, is distributed in the arid areas of the Northern Hemisphere, including China. In this paper, we introduce another species new to science, Anamylopsora pruinosa. The new species is characterised by a densely pruinose upper surface, abundantly thick and strong rhizines and terricolous habitat. It is also strongly supported by the phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses based on nrDNA ITS sequences, in which A. pruinosa forms well-supported clade separated from A. pulcherrima.
["Lichen"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Three new species of Phanerochaete (Polyporales, Basidiomycota)
Phanerochaete canobrunnea, P. cystidiata and P. fusca are presented as new species, supported by morphological studies and two sets of phylogenetic analyses. The 5.8S+nuc 28S+rpb1 dataset shows the generic placement of the three species within the phlebioid clade of Polyporales. The ITS+nuc 28S dataset displays relationships for the new taxa within Phanerochaete s.s. Phanerochaete canobrunnea grew on angiosperm branches in subtropical Taiwan and is characterised by greyish brown hymenial surface, brown generative hyphae and skeletal hyphae and absence of cystidia. Phanerochaete cystidiata grew on angiosperm branches above 1000 m in montane Taiwan and SW Yunnan Province of China and is characterised by cream to yellowish hymenial surface and more or less encrusted leptocystidia. Phanerochaete fusca grew on angiosperm branches at 1700 m in Hubei Province of China and is characterised by dark brown hymenial surface, leptocystidia, brown subicular hyphae and colourless to brownish basidiospores.

Ravenelia piepenbringiae and Ravenelia hernandezii, two new rust species on Senegalia (Fabaceae, Mimosoideae) from Panama and Costa Rica
Two new rust species, Ravenelia piepenbringiae and R. hernandezii (Pucciniales) on Senegalia spp. (Fabaceae) are described from the Neotropics (Panama, Costa Rica). A key to the species on neotropical Senegalia spp. is provided. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on 28S rDNA sequence data suggest that the representatives of Senegalia rusts distributed in the neotropics evolved independently from species known from South Africa. This is further supported by the teliospore morphology, which is characterised by uniseriate cysts in the neotropical Senegalia rusts and contrasting multiseriate cysts in the paleotropic Ravenelia species that infect this host genus.
["Senegalia rust"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Dentipellis tasmanica sp. nov. (Hericiaceae, Basidiomycota) from Australia
Dentipellis tasmanica sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Tasmania, Australia based on rDNA evidence and morphological characters. It is characterised by an annual growth habit; resupinate basidiocarps up to 100 cm long; spines cream when fresh and cinnamon when dry, up to 3 mm long and a few glued at tips when dry; distinct white fibrillous to cottony margin; a monomitic hyphal structure with non-amyloid, non-dextrinoid and cyanophilous generative hyphae; the presence of gloeoplerous hyphae and gloeocystidia which become dark blue in Melzer’s reagent; the presence of chlamydospores in the subiculum and rough basidiospores measuring 3.5–4.5 × 2.4–3.2 µm. A molecular study based on the combined ITS (internal transcribed spacer region) and 28S (the large nuclear ribosomal RNA subunit) dataset supports the new species in Dentipellis. A key to species of Dentipellis sensu stricto is provided.
["hydnoid fungi"]

The first smut fungus, Thecaphora anthemidis sp. nov. (Glomosporiaceae), described from Anthemis (Asteraceae)
There are 63 known species of Thecaphora (Glomosporiaceae, Ustilaginomycotina), a third of which occur on Asteraceae. These smut fungi produce yellowish-brown to reddish-brown masses of spore balls in specific, mostly regenerative, plant organs. A species of Thecaphora was collected in the flower heads of Anthemis chia (Anthemideae, Asteraceae) on Rhodes Island, Greece, in 2015 and 2017, which represents the first smut record of a smut fungus on a host plant species in this tribe. Based on its distinctive morphology, host species and genetic divergence, this species is described as Thecaphora anthemidis sp. nov. Molecular barcodes of the ITS region are provided for this and several other species of Thecaphora. A phylogenetic and morphological comparison to closely related species showed that Th. anthemidis differed from other species of Thecaphora. Thecaphora anthemidis produced loose spore balls in the flower heads and peduncles of Anthemis chia unlike other flower-infecting species.
["Glomosporiaceae"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Description and distribution of Tuber incognitum sp. nov. and Tuber anniae in the Transmexican Volcanic Belt
The genus Tuber is a lineage of diverse ectomycorrhizal, hypogeous, sequestrate ascomycete fungi that are native to temperate forests in the Northern Hemisphere. Recently, many new species of Tuber have been described in North America and Asia, based on morphological characteristics and molecular data. Here we describe and illustrate a new species, Tuber incognitum, based upon phylogenetic analysis and morphological description. We also present a new record for Tuber anniae in México. These two Tuber species are distributed in the Transmexican Volcanic Belt in the states of México, Michoacán, Guanajuato, Querétaro and Tlaxcala at altitudes between 2,000 and 3,200 meters. These species are associated with Pinus (T. anniae) and Quercus forests (T. incognitum).
["Sequestrate fungi"]

Three new species of Krogia (Ramalinaceae, lichenised Ascomycota) from the Paleotropics
Krogia borneensis Kistenich & Timdal, K. isidiata Kistenich & Timdal and K. macrophylla Kistenich & Timdal are described as new species, the first from Borneo and the two latter from New Caledonia. The new species are supported by morphology, secondary chemistry and DNA sequence data. Krogia borneensis and K. isidiata contain sekikaic and homosekikaic acid, both compounds reported here for the first time from the genus. Krogia macrophylla contains an unknown compound apparently related to boninic acid as the major compound. DNA sequences (mtSSU and nrITS) are provided for the first time for Krogia and a phylogeny of the genus based on 15 accessions of five of the six accepted species is presented. Krogia antillarum is reported as new to Brazil, Guatemala and Mexico.

A new section and species of Agaricus subgenus Pseudochitonia from Thailand
A large species diversity has recently been discovered in the genus Agaricus. Six subgenera and 23 sections are now recognised. In this study, three specimens collected from Thailand, formed a monophyletic clade in subgenus Pseudochitonia, based on analyses of ITS sequence data. Further analyses, based on multi-gene sequence data (ITS, LSU, tef1-α), using BEAST, revealed that this clade originated 26.7 Ma. According to their distinct morphological characteristics, phylogenetic position and relatively old divergence time, a new section Cymbiformes is proposed and this section is represented by a new species A. angusticystidiatus. This new section is characterised by the strong iodoform odour of basidiomes and cymbiform basidiospores. Descriptions, colour photographs and illustrations are presented.

Phylogenetic study and taxonomic revision of the Xanthoparmelia mexicana group, including the description of a new species (Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota)
Xanthoparmelia (Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota) is the most species-rich genus of lichen-forming fungi. Species boundaries are based on morphological and chemical features, varying reproductive strategies and, more recently, molecular sequence data. The isidiate Xanthoparmelia mexicana group is common in arid regions of North and Central America and includes a range of morphological variation and variable secondary metabolites – salazinic or stictic acids mainly. In order to better understand the evolutionary history of this group and potential taxonomic implications, a molecular phylogeny representing 58 ingroup samples was reconstructed using four loci, including ITS, mtSSU, nuLSU rDNA and MCM7. Results indicate the existence of multiple, distinct lineages phenotypically agreeing with X. mexicana. One of these isidiate, salazinic acid-containing lineages is described here as a new species, X. pedregalensis sp. nov., including populations from xerophytic scrub vegetation in Pedregal de San Angel, Mexico City. X. mexicana s. str. is less isidiate than X. pedregalensis and has salazinic and consalazinic acid, occasionally with norstictic acid; whereas X. pedregalensis contains salazinic and norstictic acids and an unknown substance. Samples from the Old World, morphologically agreeing with X. mexicana, are only distantly related to X. mexicana s. str. Our results indicate that X. mexicana is likely less common than previously assumed and ongoing taxonomic revisions are required for isidiate Xanthoparmelia species.

Classicula sinensis, a new species of basidiomycetous aquatic hyphomycetes from southwest China
Classicula sinensis, isolated from decaying leaves from Mozigou, Chongqing Municipality, China, is described as a new species. The new species is a member of basidiomycetous aquatic hyphomycetes which represent a small proportion of all aquatic hyphomycetes. This species falls within the genus Classicula (Classiculaceae, Pucciniomycotina) and is closely related to C. fluitans, based on multiple gene sequence analyses. Morphologically, it is characterised by the apical, hyaline, obclavate or navicular conidia with several hair-like lateral appendages and by its holoblastic and monoblastic conidiogenesis, with a flat un-thickened conidiogenous locus. Clamp connections and haustorial branches were often observed in culture.
["fresh water fungi"]

Hydnophanerochaete and Odontoefibula, two new genera of phanerochaetoid fungi (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from East Asia
Two new genera with phylogenetic affinities to Phanerochaete s.l. are presented, namely Hydnophanerochaete and Odontoefibula. The generic type of Hydnophanerochaete is Phanerochaete odontoidea. Odontoefibula is established based on a new species: O. orientalis (generic type). Both genera have effused basidiocarps with odontioid hymenial surface, simple-septate generative hyphae, cystidia lacking, clavate basidia and ellipsoid basidiospores that are smooth, thin-walled, inamyloid, non-dextrinoid and acyanophilous. Hydnophanerochaete is additionally characterised by a compact texture in the subiculum with thick-walled generative hyphae and quasi-binding hyphae. Odontoefibula has a dense texture of subiculum with thin- to slightly thick-walled hyphae and further a dark reddish reaction of basidiocarps when treated with KOH. Multi-marker phylogenetic analyses based on sequences, inferred from the ITS+nuc 28S+rpb1+rpb2+tef1 dataset, indicate that Hydnophanerochaete and Odontoefibula are placed in the Meruliaceae and Donkia clades of Phanerochaetaceae, respectively. Phanerochaete subodontoidea is a synonym of P. odontoidea, according to morphological and molecular evidence.
["Meruliaceae"]

Ophiostomatoid fungi associated with pines infected by Bursaphelenchus xylophilus and Monochamus alternatus in China, including three new species
The activity of the pine wood nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus leads to extremely serious economic, ecological and social losses in East Asia. The nematode causes pine wilt disease, which is currently regarded as the most important forest disease in China. The pathogenic nematode feeds on dendrocola fungi to complete its cycle of infection. As the vector of the nematode, the Japanese pine sawyer (Monochamus alternatus) also carries dendrocola fungi. Pine woods, infected by B. xylophilus and tunnelled by M. alternatus, are also inhabited by ophiostomatoid fungi. These fungi are well known for their association with many bark and ambrosia beetles. They can cause sapstain and other serious tree diseases. The aims of our study were to investigate and identify the ophiostomatoid communities associated with the epidemic pine wood nematode and the pine sawyer in Pinus massoniana and P. thunbergii forests, which are the main hosts of the pine wood nematode in China. Two hundred and forty strains of ophiostomatoid fungi were isolated from nematode and sawyer–infected trees in the coastal Shandong and Zhejiang Provinces, representing newly and historically infected areas, respectively. Six ophiostomatoid species were identified on the basis of morphological, physiological and molecular data. For the latter, DNA sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS1–5.8S–ITS2) region and partial b-tubulin gene were examined. The ophiostomatoid species included one known species, Ophiostoma ips, three novel species, viz. Ophiostoma album sp. nov., Ophiostoma massoniana sp. nov. and Sporothrix zhejiangensis sp. nov. and two species whose identities are still uncertain, Ophiostoma cf. deltoideosporum and Graphilbum cf. rectangulosporium, due to the paucity of the materials obtained. The ophiostomatoid community was dominated by O. ips. This study revealed that a relatively high species diversity of ophiostomatoid fungi are associated with pine infected by B. xylophilus and M. alternatus in China.
["Ophiostoma"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Additions to tribe Chromosereae (Basidiomycota, Hygrophoraceae) from China, including Sinohygrocybe gen. nov. and a first report of Gloioxanthomyces nitidus
Sinohygrocybe gen. nov., typified by S. tomentosipes sp. nov., is described upon morphological and molecular evidence. The new genus is characterised by its sinuate to subdecurrent or short deccurent, usually furcate and interveined and relatively distant lamellae, dry and whitish tomentose stipe, thin-walled ellipsoid to oviod, non-constricted basidiospores and particularly elongated basidia and a ratio of basidiospore to basidium length of >5 to 8; it is close to genera Chromosera and Gloioxanthomyces of the tribe Chromosereae, but morphologically differs from Chromosera in less umbilicate basidiomata, tomentose stipe and usually longer basidia and differs from Gloioxanthomyces in more robust basidioma and less glutinous pileus and/or stipe surface. Phylogenetic analyses, with ITS-LSU-RPB2 data, also indicate that Sinohygrocybe forms a very distinct and independent clade at the generic level. In addition, a Chinese new record G. nitidus is described here.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

A new species of Lecidea (Lecanorales, Ascomycota) from Pakistan
We describe here a new species, Lecidea aptrootii, in Lecidea sensu stricto from Swat Valley, Pakistan. It is most similar to L. fuscoatra in having an areolate thallus and black, lecideine apothecia with a persistent margin. However, L. aptrootii can be readily distinguished by having smaller ascospores (average length 8-10 µm). In phylogenetic analyses, using ITS and nuLSU rDNA sequences, L. aptrootii forms a sister-group relationship to L. grisella, which differs in having a rimose thallus.

Amanita tullossiana, a new species, and two new records of Amanita section Lepidella from north-western Himalaya, India
Amanita tullossiana, a new species of Amanita [subgenus Lepidella] section Lepidella from India is described. The species is characterised by its ash grey to brownish-grey pileus covered with dark grey to greyish-black universal veil remnants, the upper part of its rooting stipe base covered by several rows of recurved scales, broadly ellipsoid to ellipsoid basidiospores, absence of basidial clamp connections and pileal remnants of universal veil comprising abundant, disordered inflated cells intermixed with scattered filamentous hyphae. Molecular phylogenetic analysis and morphology both support the association of A. tullossiana with species of Bas’ stirps Cinereoconia – A. cinereoconia and A. griseoverrucosa. Two species, A. griseoverrucosa and A. virgineoides are reported here as new records for India.
["Amanitaceae"]

Tzeananiaceae, a new pleosporalean family associated with Ophiocordyceps macroacicularis fruiting bodies in Taiwan
The order Pleosporales comprises a miscellaneous group of fungi and is considered to be the largest order of the class Dothideomycetes. The circumscription of Pleosporales has undergone numerous changes in recent years due to the addition of large numbers of families reported from various habitats and with a large amount of morphological variation. Many asexual genera have been reported in Pleosporales and can be either hyphomycetes or coelomycetes. Phoma-like taxa are common and have been shown to be polyphyletic within the order and allied with several sexual genera. During the exploration of biodiversity of pleosporalean fungi in Taiwan, a fungal strain was isolated from mycelium growing on the fruiting body of an Ophiocordyceps species. Fruiting structures that developed on PDA were morphologically similar to Phoma and its relatives in having pycnidial conidiomata with hyaline conidia. The fungus is characterised by holoblastic, cylindrical, aseptate conidiogenous cells and cylindrical, hyaline, aseptate, guttulated, thin-walled conidia. Phylogenetic analysis based on six genes, ITS, LSU, rpb2, SSU, tef1 and tub2, produced a phylogenetic tree with the newly generated sequences grouping in a distinct clade separate from all of the known families. Therefore, a new pleosporalean family Tzeananiaceae is established to accommodate the monotypic genus Tzeanania and the species T. taiwanensis in Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes. The Ophiocordyceps species was identified as O. macroacicularis and this is a new record in Taiwan.

New species in Dictyosporium, new combinations in Dictyocheirospora and an updated backbone tree for Dictyosporiaceae
A survey of freshwater fungi on submerged wood in China and Thailand resulted in the collection of three species in Dictyocheirospora and four species in Dictyosporium including two new species in the latter genus. Morphological characters and phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, LSU and TEF1α sequence data support their placement in Dictyocheirospora and Dictyosporium (Dictyosporiaceae). An updated backbone tree is provided for the family Dictyosporiaceae. Descriptions and illustrations of the new taxa and re-collections are provided. Four new combinations are proposed for Dictyocheirospora.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Enzyme-mediated dye degradation"]

A new species of Rhodocybe sect. Rufobrunnea (Entolomataceae, Agaricales) from Italy
Rhodocybe fumanellii is described from Italy as a new species based both on morphological and molecular nrITS/nrLSU data. It belongs in sect. Rufobrunnea and is characterised by massive tricholomatoid basidiomata with reddish-brown tinges, adnate and crowded lamellae, an enlarged stipe base with long rhizomorphs, long sinuose slender cheilocystidia, ellipsoid basidiospores and the presence of caulocystidia. Drawings of the main micromorphological features as well as a colour photograph of fresh basidiomata in situ are provided and its morphological relationships with allied species are discussed.

Short-spored Subulicystidium (Trechisporales, Basidiomycota): high morphological diversity and only partly clear species boundaries
Diversity of corticioid fungi (resupinate Basidiomycota), especially outside the northern temperate climatic zone, remains poorly explored. Furthermore, most of the known species are delimited by morphological concepts only and, not rarely, these concepts are too broad and need to be tested by molecular tools. For many decades, the delimitation of species in the genus Subulicystidium (Hydnodontaceae, Trechisporales) was a challenge for mycologists. The presence of numerous transitional forms as to basidiospore size and shape hindered species delimitation and almost no data on molecular diversity have been available. In this study, an extensive set of 144 Subulicystidium specimens from Paleo- and Neotropics was examined. Forty-nine sequences of ITS nuclear ribosomal DNA region and 51 sequences of 28S nuclear ribosomal DNA region from fruit bodies of Subulicystidium were obtained and analysed within the barcoding gap framework and with phylogenetic Bayesian and Maximum likelihood approaches. Eleven new species of Subulicystidium are described based on morphology and molecular analyses: Subulicystidium boidinii, S. fusisporum, S. grandisporum, S. harpagum, S. inornatum, S. oberwinkleri, S. parvisporum, S. rarocrystallinum, S. robustius, S. ryvardenii and S. tedersooi. Morphological and DNA-evidenced borders were revised for the five previously known species: S. naviculatum, S. nikau, S. obtusisporum, S. brachysporum and S. meridense. Species-level variation in basidiospore size and shape was estimated based on systematic measurements of 2840 spores from 67 sequenced specimens. An updated identification key to all known species of Subulicystidium is provided.
["basidiospores"]

New Fusarium species from the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Three new Fusarium species, F. convolutans, F. fredkrugeri, and F. transvaalense (Ascomycota, Hypocreales, Nectriaceae) are described from soils collected in a catena landscape on a research supersite in the Kruger National Park, South Africa. The new taxa, isolated from the rhizosphere of three African herbaceous plants, Kyphocarpa angustifolia, Melhania acuminata, and Sida cordifolia, are described and illustrated by means of morphological and multilocus molecular analyses based on sequences from five DNA loci (CAL, EF-1 α, RPB1, RPB2 and TUB). According to phylogenetic inference based on Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian approaches, the newly discovered species are distributed in the Fusarium buharicum, F. fujikuroi, and F. sambucinum species complexes.
["Natural parks"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Diversity of polypores in the Dominican Republic: Pseudowrightoporia dominicana sp. nov. (Hericiaceae, Russulales)
The new species Pseudowrightoporia dominicana is described from the Dominican Republic based on morphological and molecular data (nrITS and nrLSU sequence analyses). It is mainly characterised by pileate basidiomata with a bright pinkish context and a di-trimitic hyphal system. Phylogenetically, it is sister to the African species P. gillesii and to the Asiatic P. japonica.

Architrypethelium murisporum (Ascomycota, Trypetheliaceae), a remarkable new lichen species from Thailand challenging ascospore septation as an indicator of phylogenetic relationships
Architrypethelium murisporum Luangsuphabool, Lumbsch & Sangvichien is described for a crustose lichen occurring in dry evergreen forest in Thailand. It is characterised by a green to yellow-green corticated thallus, perithecia fused in black pseudostromata with white rim surrounding the ostiole and small, hyaline and muriform ascospores. Currently, all species in the genus Architrypethelium have transversely septate ascospores, hence the discovery of this new species indicates that ascospore septation is variable within the genus, similar to numerous other groups of lichen-forming ascomycetes. Phylogenetic analyses of two loci (mtSSU and nuLSU) supported the position of the new species within Architrypethelium. This is the first report of the genus in Southeast Asia.
["Lichens"]

The Northeast Chinese species of Psathyrella (Agaricales, Psathyrellaceae)
Twenty seven species of Psathyrella have been found in Northeast China. Amongst them, P. conica, P. jilinensis, P. mycenoides and P. subsingeri are described as new species, based on studying morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses. Detailed morphological descriptions, line drawings and photographs of the new species are presented. Phylogenetic analysis of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and an identification key to the 27 Psathyrella species occuring in Northeast China are provided.
["Basidiomycete"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Two new species and one new record of the genus Tylopilus (Boletaceae) from Indian Himalaya with morphological details and phylogenetic estimations
Tylopilus himalayanus and T. pseudoballoui are described as new species from two Himalayan states (Sikkim and Uttarakhand) in India. Tylopilus himalayanus is characterised by a unique combination of features: reddish- or brownish-grey to purplish-grey then brown to reddish-brown or darker pileus, absence of olive or violet tinges on stipe surface, angular pores, stipe without reticulum or rarely with a faint reticulum restricted to the very apex, bitter taste of the context and positive macrochemical colour reaction of the stipe context with KOH (dark orange) and FeSO4 (dark green), medium sized (10.9–14.4 × 3.9–4.9 µm) basidiospores and occurrence under coniferous trees; T. pseudoballoui is distinguished by orange-yellow to brown-yellow sticky pileus, pale yellow pore surface with pinkish hues that turns pale to greyish-orange on bruising; angular pores, stipe concolorous to pileus with pruinose but never reticulate surface, ixocutis pattern of pileipellis and occurrence under broadleaf trees. Another species, T. neofelleus, which was reported earlier from China and Japan, was also collected from Sikkim and reported for the first time from India. All three species are described with morphological details and two-locus based (nrLSU and nrITS) phylogenetic data.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Identification of endophytic fungi from leaves of Pandanaceae based on their morphotypes and DNA sequence data from southern Thailand
The authors established the taxonomic status of endophytic fungi associated with leaves of Pandanaceae collected from southern Thailand. Morphotypes were initially identified based on their characteristics in culture and species level identification was done based on both morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequence data. Twenty-two isolates from healthy leaves were categorised into eight morphotypes. Appropriate universal primers were used to amplify specific gene regions and phylogenetic analyses were performed to identify these endophytes and established relationships with extant fungi. The authors identified both ascomycete and basidiomycete species, including one new genus, seven new species and nine known species. Morphological descriptions, colour plates and phylogenies are given for each taxon.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A new species of Stamnaria (Leotiomycetes, Helotiales) from Western Siberia
A new species of Stamnaria is described based on morphology and molecular data from a collection made in West Siberia. Stamnaria yugrana is differentiated by lanceolate, strongly protruding paraphyses and comparatively narrow, fusoid-clavate ascospores. The apothecia are urn-shaped due to a prominent and even collar as in S. persoonii. The species grows on fallen side branches of Equisetum sylvaticum, a rarely recorded host for Stamnaria. The authors formally describe the new species and provide colour illustrations. In addition, the literature is reviewed on previously described species of Stamnaria. Phylogenetic reconstruction of the Stamnaria lineage, based on the ITS ribosomal DNA, strongly supports the three currently recognised species: S. americana, S. persoonii and S. yugrana.

A multi-gene phylogeny of Chlorophyllum (Agaricaceae, Basidiomycota): new species, new combination and infrageneric classification
Taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of Chlorophyllum were carried out on the basis of morphological differences and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Based on the phylogeny inferred from the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), the partial large subunit nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrLSU), the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (rpb2) and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1) sequences, six well-supported clades and 17 phylogenetic species are recognised. Within this phylogenetic framework and considering the diagnostic morphological characters, two new species, C. africanum and C. palaeotropicum, are described. In addition, a new infrageneric classification of Chlorophyllum is proposed, in which the genus is divided into six sections. One new combination is also made. This study provides a robust basis for a more detailed investigation of diversity and biogeography of Chlorophyllum.

Xylopsora canopeorum (Umbilicariaceae), a new lichen species from the canopy of Sequoia sempervirens
Xylopsora canopeorum Timdal, Reese Næsborg & Bendiksby is described as a new species occupying the crowns of large Sequoia sempervirens trees in California, USA. The new species is supported by morphology, anatomy, secondary chemistry and DNA sequence data. While similar in external appearance to X. friesii, it is distinguished by forming smaller, partly coralloid squamules, by the occurrence of soralia and, in some specimens, by the presence of thamnolic acid in addition to friesiic acid in the thallus. Molecular phylogenetic results are based on nuclear (ITS and LSU) as well as mitochondrial (SSU) ribosomal DNA sequence alignments. Phylogenetic hypotheses obtained using Bayesian Inference, Maximum Likelihood and Maximum Parsimony all support X. canopeorum as a distinct evolutionary lineage belonging to the X. caradocensis–X. friesii clade.
["California"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Phylogenetic affinities of the sequestrate genus Rhodactina (Boletaceae), with a new species, R. rostratispora from Thailand
Rhodactina is a small sequestrate genus in Boletaceae with two described species, R. himalayensis and R. incarnata. Phylogenetic analyses of a three-gene dataset including atp6, tef1 and rpb2 of Rhodactina species along with selected Boletaceae species showed that all Rhodactina species formed a monophyletic clade, sister to the genera Spongiforma and Borofutus in subfamily Leccinoideae with high support. All of the taxa in the clade have a similar chemical reaction in which basidiospores turn purplish, purplish red to violet or violet grey when in contact with potassium hydroxide. The molecular analyses also showed that all Rhodactina specimens collected from Ubon Ratchathani province, northeastern Thailand, belong to a new species. Morphologically, the new species is different from others by having a markedly prominent hilar appendage and a terminal hilum on its basidiospores. Thus, the new species, Rhodactina rostratispora, is introduced with detailed macroscopic and microscopic descriptions and illustrations.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

An overview of the genus Coprotus (Pezizales, Ascomycota) with notes on the type species and description of C. epithecioides sp. nov.
In a mycological research performed in the Sjeverni Velebit National Park, Croatia, a new species of Coprotus was discovered, described here as C. epithecioides. Along with the microscopic examination, phylogenetic analysis of the type material, based on ITS and LSU sequences, was performed in order to evaluate its relationship with the type species, C. sexdecimsporus. The type species was sequenced in this study for the first time, providing ITS and LSU sequences from two separate collections which displayed differences in macroscopic characters and content of paraphyses. An extended description of C. sexdecimsporus based on Croatian material is also provided. A worldwide identification key to the species assigned to the genus Coprotus is presented, along with a species overview, containing a data matrix. The phylogenetic position of Coprotus in the Boubovia-Coprotus clade within Pyronemataceae s.l. is discussed. Coprotus sexdecimsporus is also reported here as new to the Croatian mycobiota.
["Coprotus epithecioides sp. nov."]

A new species and a new record of Laccaria (Fungi, Basidiomycota) found in a relict forest of the endangered Fagus grandifolia var. mexicana
Two species of Laccaria discovered in relicts of Fagus grandifolia var. mexicana forests in eastern Mexico are described based on the macro- and micromorphological features, and their identity supported by molecular analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit (LSU) of the ribosomal RNA gene. The phylogeny obtained here showed that one of the Mexican species is nested in an exclusive clade which in combination with its striking morphological features, infers that it represents a new species, while the other species is placed as a member in the Laccaria trichodermophora clade. This is the first report in Mexico of Laccaria with Fagus grandifolia var. mexicana trees, with which the reported species may form ectomycorrhizal association. Descriptions are accompanied with illustrations of macro- and micromorphological characters and a discussion of related taxa are presented.

Three new species of Hydnophlebia (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from the Macaronesian Islands
The genus Hydnophlebia includes two species of wood-inhabiting fungi, Hydnophlebia chrysorhizon and Hydnophlebia omnivora. Both are characterized by cream to reddish-orange, resupinate basidiome, with hydnoid hymenophore, margin with strands, a monomitic hyphal system, tubular to ventricose cystidia and elliptical spores. In this paper, a taxonomic study of Hydnophlebia, using morphology and molecular analyses of large subunit nuclear ribosomal DNA (LSU) and the internal transcribed spacer nrDNA operon (ITS), is reported. Three new species, Hydnophlebia canariensis, H. gorgonea and H. meloi, from the Macaronesia bioregion (Canary Islands and Cape Verde Archipelago), are described.

Monocillium gamsii sp. nov. and Monocillium bulbillosum: two nematode-associated fungi parasitising the eggs of Heterodera filipjevi
Monocillium gamsii sp. nov. (Ascomycota, Hypocreales, Niessliaceae) isolated from eggs of the cereal cyst nematode Heterodera filipjevi is described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence. The new taxon discovered in wheat fields in Turkey destructively parasitises nematode eggs. The infected eggs were readily colonised by the fungus, which produced microsclerotia. The fungus could be grown on artificial media and the parasitism of M. gamsii towards H. filipjevi was reproducible in vitro. Hyphae penetrating the nematode eggs entirely colonised the embryo, developed into multicellular chlamydospore and dictyochlamydospore-like structures eventually forming microsclerotia. Molecular and morphological differences and similarities between M. gamsii and its phylogenetically related species are discussed. Monocillium bulbillosum was found to be closely related to the new species. The pathogenicity of M. bulbillosum against H. filipjevi was also assayed in vitro because of its sister group relationship to M. gamsii revealing that this species was also capable of colonising eggs of H. filipjevi.
["Egg-parasitic fungi"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Two new green-spored species of Trichoderma (Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota) and their phylogenetic positions
Two new species of Trichoderma are described based on the collections producing ascomata or asexual morphs on woody substrates, and named as Trichoderma fujianense and T. zonatum. Trichoderma fujianense produces gliocladium to verticillium-like conidiophores, slender to lageniform phialides, green and ellipsoidal to cylindrical conidia. Trichoderma zonatum is characterized by pulvinate, pale yellow to light brown stromata with densely disposed dark green to black ostioles, monomorphic ascospores, simple trichoderma-like conidiophores, green, (sub)globose to pyriform conidia. Their phylogenetic positions were investigated inferred from sequence analyses of the combined RNA polymerase II subunit b and translation elongation factor 1-α genes. The results indicate that T. fujianense, along with T. aureoviride and T. candidum, represents an independent lineage with high statistical support. Trichoderma zonatum belongs to the Chlorosporum clade and is associated with but clearly separated from T. rosulatum and T. costaricense. Morphological distinctions and sequence divergences between the new species and their close relatives were discussed.
["Hypocreales"]

Chlorovibrissea korfii sp. nov. from northern hemisphere and Vibrissea flavovirens new to China
A new species, Chlorovibrissea korfii, is described and illustrated, which is distinct from other members of the genus by the overall pale greenish apothecia 0.8–2.0 mm in diam. and 0.6–1.5 mm high, J+ asci 70–83 × 4.5–5.5 μm, and non-septate ascospores 44–52 × 1.2–1.5 μm. This is the first species of Chlorovibrissea reported from northern hemisphere. Vibrissea flavovirens is reported from China for the first time. Sequence analyses of the internal transcribed spacer of nuclear ribosomal DNA are used to confirm the affinity of the two taxa.

Taxonomic novelties and new records of Fennoscandian crustose lichens
We present taxonomic, distributional and ecological notes on Fennoscandian crustose lichens and lichenicolous fungi, based on new collections as well as revision of herbarium material. Two new combinations are proposed: Frutidella furfuracea comb. nov. for F. pullata and Puttea duplex comb. nov. for Fellhanera duplex. Lecidea byssoboliza, L. carneoglauca and Variolaria torta are all reduced to synonymy with Bacidia antricola, Bacidia invertens is synonymized with B. igniarii, B. atrolivida with Mycobilimbia tetramera, and Gyalidea fruticola with Thelenella pertusariella. A new description is provided for Micarea hylocomii. 25 species of lichens and lichenicolous fungi are reported as new to Finland, Norway and/or Sweden: Absconditella lignicola (Norway), Bacidia antricola (Norway), B. polychroa (Norway), B. pycnidiata (Sweden), Bacidina adastra (Sweden), Biatora veteranorum (Norway), Briancoppinsia cytospora (Finland), Catillaria scotinodes (Norway), Cliostomum subtenerum (Norway), Dirina fallax (Sweden), Fellhaneropsis almquistiorum (Norway), Gyalidea subscutellaris (Sweden), Lecania inundata (Norway), L. suavis (Norway), Micarea capitata (Norway), M. deminuta (Norway), M. hylocomii (Sweden), M. lynceola (Sweden), M. soralifera (Sweden), M. subconfusa (Sweden), Mycoblastus sanguinarioides (Finland, Sweden), Paralecia pratorum (Sweden), Puttea duplex (Sweden), Sarcogyne algoviae (Finland) and Toninia subnitida (Norway). Lectotypes are designated for Bacidia antricola, Lecidea byssoboliza, Lecidea carneoglauca, Lecidea subconfusa and Lecidea submoestula.

Orbilia beltraniae, a new succulenticolous species from the Canary Islands
Orbilia beltraniae is a new succulenticolous species from the Canary Islands associated with Euphorbia scrubs. Phylogenetic analyses based on rDNA sequences of ITS and partial LSU were conducted to determine the relationships of the new species to others in the genus. Macro- and micromorphological, and ecology data are provided, as well as discussion in respect to closely related species. Orbilia beltraniae belongs to a strongly supported clade that includes non-nematophagous species of section Arthrobotrys, and its closest relatives are the European species O. rectispora and O. cotoneastri.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

An investigation on Mycetinis (Euagarics, Basidiomycota)
Molecular analyses have revealed a clade which equates with the genus name Mycetinis Earle. An overall survey of this genus, however, has not been forthcoming. The current study summarizes taxa which are placed in Mycetinis based on morphological and/or molecular data. Fifteen taxa are accepted: Mycetinis scorodonius f. diminutivus and Mycetinis yunnanensis are proposed as new, while Mycetinis cinnamomeus, Mycetinis olidus, Mycetinis prasiosmus, Mycetinis subalpinus and Myctinis virgultorum are newly recombined binomials. Phylogenies based on molecular data show overall disposition in Omphalotaceae, Gymnopus and allied genera, and taxa of Mycetinis.
["Molecular phylogenies"]

Ganoderma sichuanense (Ganodermataceae, Polyporales) new to Thailand
Ganoderma sichuanense (Ganodermataceae) is a medicinal mushroom originally described from China and previously confused with G. lucidum. It has been widely used as traditional medicine in Asia since it has potential nutritional and therapeutic values. We collected 8 specimens of Ganoderma species from Thailand and show that they represent the first record of G. sichuanenese for Thailand. In this paper, we describe our specimens of Ganoderma sichuanense based on fresh basidiomes, and provide line drawings and photographs. The data from macro- and microscopic features are consistent with the characteristics of the species. Analysis of ITS sequence data indicates that the Thai collections cluster in same species clade as the epitype of G. sichuanense.
["Ganoderma"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research"]

Psora taurensis (Psoraceae, Lecanorales), a new lichen species from Turkey
Herein we describe the new species, Psora taurensis, from two localities in the Taurus Mountains in Turkey at ca. 1000 m altitude. Investigations of anatomy, secondary chemistry and DNA sequences (ITS and mtSSU) of P. taurensis and presumed close relatives suggest that P. taurensis is a distinct evolutionary lineage with P. tenuifolia as its sister, although it is morphologically more similar to P. russellii and P. vallesiaca.

The genus Podaxis in arid regions of Mexico: preliminary ITS phylogeny and ethnomycological use
Identification of Podaxis species to species-level based on morphology alone is problematic. Thus, species of the genus Podaxis are in dire need of taxonomic and phylogenetic evaluations using molecular data to develop a consensus between morphological taxonomy and more robust molecular analyses. In Mexico, most of the collected specimens of Podaxis have been morphologically identified as Podaxis pistillarissensu lato and are locally used for its culinary value. In this study, the internal transcribed spacer region of Podaxis specimens from the MEXU fungarium collected between 1948 and 2014 from arid regions of Mexico were sequenced and these collections placed into a molecular phylogenetic framework using Maximum Likelihood analysis. In addition, the ethnomycological use of Podaxis in Mexico (utility, traditional handling, economic importance, etc.) is described by observations, interviews, and sampling of Podaxis species with local people from three areas of the region of the Cañada of Oaxaca, which belongs to the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve. These results indicate that the Mexican Podaxis were divided into two clades. Specimens collected in the northern region showed phylogenetic affinities to clade D, while specimens from the south of Mexico clustered within clade E. Morphological data, such as spore length and width, showed significant differences between the two phylogenetic clades, implying that these clades represent different species. None of the Mexican specimens were found in association with termite mounds, which might indicate an adaptation to desert-like regions. This study provides the first ethnomycological use of Podaxis from Mexico.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Two new species of Strigula (lichenised Dothideomycetes, Ascomycota) from China, with a key to the Chinese foliicolous species
Strigula has traditionally been circumscribed based on morphology, but species delimitation in the genus generally lacks comprehensive analyses. A molecular approach has now been applied to foliicolous material of the genus from tropical areas in China. On the basis of combined phenotyic and genotypic data, two new species are described from southern China: S. acuticonidiarum and S. guangxiensis.
["Foliicolous lichens"]

Corrigenda: Miettinen O, Spirin V, Vlasák J, Rivoire B, Stenroos S, Hibbett D (2016) Polypores and genus concepts in Phanerochaetaceae (Polyporales, Basidiomycota). MycoKeys 17: 1–46. doi: 10.3897/mycokeys.17.10153
We validate two invalidly published species names, Ceriporia mpurii and C. pierii.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Micromphale sect. Perforantia (Agaricales, Basidiomycetes); Expansion and phylogenetic placement
DNA sequences show that the traditional genus Micromphale appears to be polyphyletic. Nuclear ribosomal LSU and ITS DNA sequences place Micromphale sect. Perforantia Singer (typus sect. M. perforans) within Gymnopus, comprising a clade sister to a mixture of traditional Gymnopus taxa including G. fusipes (typus generis) plus traditional Marasmius sect. Androsacei. This study enlarges sect. Perforantia and shows that sect. Perforantia is a clade separate from those including Micromphale sect. Micromphale and sect. Rhizomorphigena. A new subsection Pinophili is proposed to include new species G. pinophilus and G. ponderosae. Eleven taxa are accepted at species rank, of which nine are proposed as new, mostly morpho-taxa.
["Gymnopus"]

Five new species of Graphidaceae (Ascomycota, Ostropales) from Thailand
Five new species of Graphidaceae are described from Thailand. Molecular evidence and phenotypical characters support their independent status from related and similar species. Glaucotrema thailandicum Naksuwankul, Lücking & Lumbsch is unique within the genus in having submuriform ascospores. Ocellularia klinhomii Naksuwankul, Lücking & Lumbsch is characterized by having a whitish gray, rimose thallus with ascomata in verrucae and surrounded by a black ring and lack of secondary metabolites. Ocellularia phatamensis Naksuwankul, Parnmen & Lumbsch has a grayish, thick and rimose thallus, differing from O. klinhomii in lacking a dark apothecial rim and having ascomata that are not immersed in verrucae. Ocellularia thailandica Naksuwankul, Kraichak & Lumbsch differs from O. albocincta in lacking a columella. Ocellularia rotundifumosa Naksuwankul, Lücking & Lumbsch differs from O. fumosa in having ascospores with rounded ends. An epitype for O. krathingensis is selected.

Polypores and genus concepts in Phanerochaetaceae (Polyporales, Basidiomycota)
We explored whether DNA-phylogeny-based and morphology-based genus concepts can be reconciled in the basidiomycete family Phanerochaetaceae. Our results show that macromorphology of fruiting bodies and hymenophore construction do not reflect monophyletic groups. However, by integrating micromorphology and re-defining genera, harmonization of DNA phylogeny and morphological genus concepts is possible in most cases. In the case of one genus (Phlebiopsis), our genetic markers could not resolve genus limits satisfactorily and a clear morphological definition could not be identified. We combine extended species sampling, microscopic studies of fruiting bodies and phylogenetic analyses of ITS, nLSU and rpb1 to revise genus concepts. Three new polypore genera are ascribed to the Phanerochaetaceae: Oxychaete gen. nov. (type Oxyporus cervinogilvus), Phanerina gen. nov. (type Ceriporia mellea), and Riopa (including Ceriporia metamorphosa and Riopa pudens sp. nov.). Phlebiopsis is extended to include Dentocorticium pilatii, further species of Hjortstamia and the monotypic polypore genus Castanoporus. The polypore Ceriporia inflata is combined into Phanerochaete. The identity of the type species of the genus Riopa, R. davidii, has been misinterpreted in the current literature. The species has been included in Ceriporia as a species of its own or placed in synonymy with Ceriporia camaresiana. The effort to properly define R. davidii forced us to study Ceriporia more widely. In the process we identified five closely related Ceriporia species that belong to the true Ceriporia clade (Irpicaceae). We describe those species here, and introduce the Ceriporia pierii group. We also select a lectotype and an epitype for Riopa metamorphosa and neotypes for Sporotrichum aurantiacum and S. aurantium, the type species of the anamorphic genus Sporotrichum, and recommend that teleomorphic Riopa is conserved against it.

High habitat-specificity in fungal communities in oligo-mesotrophic, temperate Lake Stechlin (North-East Germany)
Freshwater fungi are a poorly studied ecological group that includes a high taxonomic diversity. Most studies on aquatic fungal diversity have focused on single habitats, thus the linkage between habitat heterogeneity and fungal diversity remains largely unexplored. We took 216 samples from 54 locations representing eight different habitats in the meso-oligotrophic, temperate Lake Stechlin in North-East Germany. These included the pelagic and littoral water column, sediments, and biotic substrates. We performed high throughput sequencing using the Roche 454 platform, employing a universal eukaryotic marker region within the large ribosomal subunit (LSU) to compare fungal diversity, community structure, and species turnover among habitats. Our analysis recovered 1027 fungal OTUs (97% sequence similarity). Richness estimates were highest in the sediment, biofilms, and benthic samples (189–231 OTUs), intermediate in water samples (42–85 OTUs), and lowest in plankton samples (8 OTUs). NMDS grouped the eight studied habitats into six clusters, indicating that community composition was strongly influenced by turnover among habitats. Fungal communities exhibited changes at the phylum and order levels along three different substrate categories from littoral to pelagic habitats. The large majority of OTUs (> 75%) could not be classified below the order level due to the lack of aquatic fungal entries in public sequence databases. Our study provides a first estimate of lake-wide fungal diversity and highlights the important contribution of habitat heterogeneity to overall diversity and community composition. Habitat diversity should be considered in any sampling strategy aiming to assess the fungal diversity of a water body.
["Freshwater fungi"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

The first ITS phylogeny of the genus Cantharocybe (Agaricales, Hygrophoraceae) with a new record of C. virosa from Bangladesh
This is the first internal transcribed spacer (ITS) phylogeny of the enigmatic genus Cantharocybe and includes ITS sequences from two out of the three holotype collections. Two species are reported from the Americas and only a single species from Asia. Additionally, a collection of Cantharocybe virosa collected from tropical Bangladesh was included in this study. This species is a new record for Bangladesh, and is characterized by its tawny gray or grayish brown pileus and stipe surface, smooth ellipsoid basidiospores, elongated necked lecythiform cystidia, a trichoderm pileipellis, and abundant clamp connections. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using ITS, and combined analyses of ITS with the large subunit of nuclear ribosomal RNA (nrLSU) showed that the collection from Bangladesh is conspecific with the Indian C. virosa. A large, previously unknown intron was found in the ITS of C. brunneovelutina and C. virosa, while the C. gruberi sequence was found to be truncated where the intron would have been inserted. The intron was not identical between Cantharocybe species, and may be phylogenetically informative. Morphological description, color photographs and line drawings are provided for Bangladesh collection C. virosa. A key to the genus Cantharocybe is provided.
["Biogeographic distribution"]

Oomycete-specific ITS primers for identification and metabarcoding
Microbial metabarcoding studies using high throughput sequencing technologies generate unprecedented amounts of DNA sequence data and make it possible to determine not only the composition of the communities but also the underlying factors powering the evolution of these communities. Despite the potential of community level studies in helping to better understand the ecology of pathogens and to manage the losses caused by them, very few oomycete addressing metabarcoding studies have been carried out and with highly variable results. The aim of this study was to develop new oomycete-specific ITS region PCR primers with improved specificity for metabarcoding and identification of oomycetes. The modified ITS1oo and the newly developed ITS3oo primers show improved in silico specificity for oomycetes and when paired with the universal ITS4 successfully amplified the DNA from all eleven tested oomycete species from six genera. High throughput sequencing of 20 soil samples from forest nurseries and bordering areas, using the primer pair ITS1oo/ITS4, recovered more than 400 oomycete OTUs, which is a significant increase over previous studies, and indicates the ability of the new method to detect various oomycete groups from complex substrates. The average fraction of oomycete reads per soil samples was 32–36%, with a maximum of 69%. The recovered oomycete OTUs represented the groups Lagenidiales, Peronosporales, Pythiales and Saprolegniales, ﻿with Pythiales dominating in all samples. In addition, the new primers were successfully used in identifying pathogens directly from infected plant tissues with Sanger sequencing. The pathogen was identified to the species or genus level in four samples out of six. In conclusion, the developed oomycete-specific primers provide a reliable method for the identification and metabarcoding of oomycetes.
["oomycete"]
["Plant Pathogens and Resistance", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Phylogenetic studies uncover a predominantly African lineage in a widely distributed lichen-forming fungal species
A number of lichen-forming fungal species are widely distributed. Here, we investigate biogeographic patterns in a widely distributed isidiate taxon – Parmelinella wallichiana – using molecular sequence data. Our results revealed that Parmelinella wallichina, as currently circumscribed, is not monophyletic but falls into four clades, two of them represented by a sample only. A third clade, occurring in Africa and southern India is described as a new species, Parmelinella schimperiana Kirika & Divakar, sp. nov. Our study adds a further example of previously overlooked, geographically distinct, lineages that were discovered using molecular data.

Psora altotibetica (Psoraceae, Lecanorales), a new lichen species from the Tibetan part of the Himalayas
In the present study, we describe the new species, Psora altotibetica, from nine localities in China (Tibetan area) and Nepal. The study includes analyses of anatomy, secondary chemistry, and DNA sequence data of P. altotibetica and presumed close relatives. Psora altotibetica resembles P. indigirkae morphologically, but is phylogenetically closer to P. tenuifolia and P. vallesiaca. It differs from P. indigirkae in the colour of the apothecia, the size of the ascospores, and in the secondary chemistry. The species is terricolous and was collected in the alpine zone of the Great Himalayas between 4230 and 5000 m altitude. Psora tenuifolia and P. vallesiaca are here reported as new to China and the Himalayas.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Corrigenda: Harrower E, Bougher NL, Winterbottom C, Henkel TW, Horak E, Matheny PB (2015) New species in Cortinarius section Cortinarius (Agaricales) from the Americas and Australasia. MycoKeys 11: 1–21. doi: 10.3897/mycokeys.11.5409
The authors apologize for errors in the description of type specimens in their original article and make corrections.
["Cortinarius kioloensis"]
["Silymarin and Mushroom Poisoning", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

New records of lichenized and lichenicolous fungi in Scandinavia
Fourteen species of lichenized or lichenicolous fungi are reported new to either Norway or Sweden or both countries. Several of these are rare and almost unknown. The reported species are: Acarospora insignis (new to Norway), A. pyrenopsoides (Norway, Sweden), A. versicolor (Norway), Calvitimela perlata (Sweden), Lecidea degeliana (Sweden), Nephroma helveticum (Sweden), Peltula placodizans (Norway), Phacographa protoparmeliae (Norway), Rhizocarpon pycnocarpoides (Norway, Sweden), Sarcogyne algoviae (Sweden), Sarcogyne hypophaeoides (Norway, Sweden), Tephromela grumosa (Norway), Tremella lobariacearum (Norway) and Tremella wirthii (Sweden). In addition Cladonia albonigra is confirmed from Sweden. Sarcogyne hypophaeoides is lectotypified and is also reported new to Austria.
["Acarosporaceae"]

Contemporary documentation of the rare eastern North American species Inocybe insignis (Inocybaceae, Agaricales)
Inocybe insignis, an eastern North American species with greenish blue staining basidiomes, is documented for the first time since its original description circa 75 years ago in the Great Smoky Mountains. Here, we provide a detailed macroscopic and microscopic description and photographs of this rarely collected species, based on material collected in an Illinois oak-hickory forest. Analysis of molecular phylogenetic data strongly supports an evolutionary alliance with Asian and Australasian species of the Inocybe asterospora group. The combination of stellate basidiospores, marginate stipe base, entirely pruinose stipe, rimose pileus, and strong distinctive odor corroborates the molecular results, but the closest relatives of I. insignis lack the greenish blue staining characteristic of I. insignis.
["Bluing species"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

New species in Cortinarius section Cortinarius (Agaricales) from the Americas and Australasia
Five new species from Cortinarius sect. Cortinarius are formally described, four from the Americas (Cortinarius palatinus Harrower, sp. nov., Cortinarius atrotomentosus Harrower, sp. nov., Cortinarius altissimus Harrower & T.W. Henkel, sp. nov., Cortinarius neotropicus Harrower, sp. nov.) and one from Australasia (Cortinarius carneipallidus Harrower & E. Horak, sp. nov.) based on molecular, morphological, and ecological circumscription. Additional collections of the Australasian species Cortinarius hallowellensis Wood and Cortinarius kioloensis Wood reveal wider host associations and geographic ranges than previously recorded. Morphological descriptions, photomicrographs and a dichotomous key to all species in Cortinarius sect. Cortinarius are provided. This work raises the number of species in sect. Cortinarius to twelve.
["Fungal Biology and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Transatlantic disjunction in fleshy fungi III: Gymnopus confluens
Phylogeographic data indicate that DNA differences consistently exist between the North American and European allopatric populations of Gymnopus confluens. Conversely, pairing experiments show that collections from both populations were sexually compatible in vitro and detailed morphological examinations of numerous fresh and dried basidiomata do not produce qualitative differences. Percent ITS sequence divergence between Europe and North American collections of G. confluens was 3.25%. Species delineation metrics including Rosenberg’s PAB statistic, PID metrics, RRD (randomly distributed) and PTP (Poisson Tree Processes) gave mixed indications that North American and European populations were distinct at species rank. The North American populations are described as Gymnopus confluens subsp. campanulatus (Peck) R.H. Petersen.
["Allopatric speciation"]

Freshwater Ascomycetes: Jahnula purpurea (Jahnulales, Dothideomycetes), a new species on submerged wood from Martinique Island, Lesser Antilles
Jahnula purpurea J.Fourn., Raja & Shearer, a new species in the Jahnulales (Dothideomycetes) collected from submerged wood in a freshwater river in Martinique Island, Lesser Antilles, is described and illustrated. The characteristic features of the new species are: globose to subglobose, brownish black ascomata with broad, golden brown, subtending hyphae which stain the underlying wood purple; a peridial wall composed of large pseudoparenchymatic cells, which are textura angularis to prismatica in surface view; sparsely septate pseudoparaphyses embedded in a gel matrix; clavate to obclavate asci with a short pedicel; brown, one-septate, ellipsoidal, rough-walled ascospores without a gelatinous sheath or appendages. Unfortunately, because limited material was available from the type collection, we were unable to obtain molecular data. Jahnula purpurea is distinct from all previously described species of Jahnula in its ability to stain the wood purple and in a combination of ascomal, ascus, and ascospore size and morphology.
["Aquatic fungi"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Buwchfawromyces eastonii gen. nov., sp. nov.: a new anaerobic fungus (Neocallimastigomycota) isolated from buffalo faeces
The novel anaerobic fungus Buwchfawromyces eastonii gen. nov., sp. nov., belonging to order Neocallimastigales (phylum Neocallimastigomycota) is described. Morphologically similar to Piromyces but genetically quite distinct, this fungus (isolate GE09) was first isolated from buffalo faeces in west Wales and then subsequently isolated from sheep, cattle and horse in the same area. Phylogenetic analysis of LSU and ITS sequence confirmed that B. eastonii isolates formed a distinct clade close to the polycentric Anaeromyces spp. The morphology of GE09 is monocentric with monoflagellate zoospores. However, the sporangial stalk (sporangiophore) is often distinctly swollen and the proximal regions of the rhizoidal system twisted in appearance.
["Ruminant"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Rediscovery of Roesleria subterranea from Japan with a discussion of its infraspecific relationships detected using molecular analysis
Roesleria subterranea, a distinctive hypogeous fungus, was collected from unidentified deciduous plant roots in red pine forests. The fungus had been documented several times in the past in Japan, but with no description. A description is given here based on specimens collected in Japan. The sequence of the D1-D2 region of the 28S rDNA obtained from the isolate was identical to those of the European and American specimens. Maximum parsimony analysis incorporating the present data and all other available ITS-5.8S sequences for R. subterranea showed that there are two infraspecific groups. One of them, composed of the isolates from Vitis spp. in Germany, Italy, and USA, was monophyletic. The other group, composed of isolates from deciduous trees in various countries, including Japan, was paraphyletic. The phylogenetic patterns indicate that the host may be more important than geographical distance for the genetic diversification of R. subterranea.
["Geographic distribution"]

Pycnopulvinus aurantiacus gen. et sp. nov., a new sporocarp-forming member of Pucciniomycotina
An unusual fungus producing minute orange stilboid sporocarps was found on a palm leaf mid-rib in a Neotropical forest. Morphological observations could not place this collection into any previously described species or genus and, due to an absence of sexual structures, even higher level placement was uncertain. Phylogenetic analysis of a portion of the large subunit and the internal transcribed spacer of the nuclear ribosomal DNA indicated that this fungus is related to Heterogastridium pycnidioideum and belongs to Heterogastridiales, Microbotryomycetes (Pucciniomycotina). A new genus and species, Pycnopulvinus aurantiacus, are proposed here to accommodate this fungus.
["Ceratocystis"]

Tremella rhizocarpicola sp. nov. and other interesting lichenicolous Tremellales and Filobasidiales in the Nordic countries
New data on the diversity and geographical distribution of lichenicolous Tremellales and Filobasidiales in the Nordic countries is presented. One new species, Tremella rhizocarpicola, is formally described. Tremella pertusariae and T. protoparmeliae are reported as new to the Nordic countries, Syzygospora physciacearum is new to Iceland, Tremella rinodinae is new to Sweden, and T. caloplacae is new to Norway. Nine species are reported as new to a number of Swedish provinces, including Biatoropsis usnearum, Syzygospora bachmannii, S. physciacearum, Tremella caloplacae, T. cetrariicola, T. cladoniae, T. coppinsii, T. diploschistina, and T. hypogymniae.

Two new species of Ramaria from Arkansas
Two species of Ramaria from the Ozark region of Arkansas, USA, R. admiratia and R. calvodistalis, are proposed as new. They are described morphologically and placed molecularly within a large clade including taxa of ramarioid and cantharelloid fungi.
["Ozark Plateau"]

DNA barcoding and morphological studies reveal two new species of waxcap mushrooms (Hygrophoraceae) in Britain
Rigorous diagnostics and documentation of fungal species are fundamental to their conservation. During the course of a species-level study of UK waxcap (Hygrophoraceae) diversity, two previously unrecognized species were discovered. We describe Gliophorus europerplexus sp. nov. and G. reginae sp. nov., respectively orange–brown and purple–pink waxcap mushrooms, from nutrient-poor grasslands in Britain. Both share some morphological features with specimens assigned to Gliophorus (=Hygrocybe) psittacinus. However, analysis of sequences of the nuclear ITS DNA barcode region from these and related taxa confirms the phylogenetic distinctness of these lineages. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the holotype of Hygrophorus perplexus, a North American species morphologically resembling G. europerplexus, is phylogenetically divergent from all our collections. It is likely that further collections of G. europerplexus will be revealed by sequencing European material currently filed under G. perplexus and its synonyms. However, two such collections in the Kew fungarium yielded sequences that clustered together but were divergent from those of G. europerplexus, G. perplexus and G. psittacinus and may represent a further novel taxon. By contrast, G. reginae is morphologically distinct and can usually be recognized in the field by its purplish viscid pileus and relatively stout, flexuose, pale stipe. It is named to commemorate the diamond jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2012 and the 60th anniversary of her coronation in 2013.

Cortinarius bovarius (Agaricales), a new species from western North America
Cortinarius bovarius sp. nov., a conifer associated taxon growing on calcareous ground, is described from western North America. Phylogenetic relationships and species limits were investigated using rDNA ITS and nuclear rpb2 sequences, morphological and ecological data. The species belongs to section Bovini and its closest relative is European C. bovinus.
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

DNA barcode identification of lichen-forming fungal species in the Rhizoplaca melanophthalma species-complex (Lecanorales, Lecanoraceae), including five new species
Recent studies using sequence data from multiple loci and coalescent-based species delimitation have revealed several species-level lineages within the phenotypically circumscribed taxon Rhizoplaca melanophthalma sensu lato. Here, we formally describe five new species within this group, R. occulta, R. parilis, R. polymorpha, R. porterii, and R. shushanii, using support from the coalescent-based species delimitation method implemented in the program Bayesian Phylogenetics and Phylogeography (BPP) as the diagnostic feature distinguishing new species. We provide a reference DNA sequence database using the ITS marker as a DNA barcode for identifying species within this complex. We also assessed intraspecific genetic distances within the six R. melanophthalma sensu lato species. While intraspecific genetic distances within the five new species were less than or equal to the lowest interspecific pairwise comparison values, an overlap in genetic distances within the R. melanophthalma sensu stricto clade suggests the potential for additional phenotypically cryptic lineages within this broadly distributed lineage. Overall, our results demonstrate the potential for accurately identifying species within the R. melanophthalma group by using molecular-based identification methods.
["Bio-monitoring"]

A review of the genus Bulbothrix Hale: the species with medullary salazinic acid lacking vegetative propagules
Descriptions are presented for the seven known Bulbothrix (Parmeliaceae, Lichenized Fungi) species with salazinic acid in the medulla and without vegetative propagules. Bulbothrix continua, previously considered as a synonym of B. hypocraea, is recognized as independent species. The current delimitations are confirmed for B. enormis, B. hypocraea, B. meizospora, B. linteolocarpa, B. sensibilis, and B. setschwanensis. New characteriscs and range extensions are provided.
["Parmeliaceae"]

A further new species in the lichen genus Arctomia: A. borbonica from Reunion (Mascarene archipelago)
Arctomia borbonica sp. nov. is described as new for science from montane natural and secondary habitats in Reunion, in the Mascarene archipelago (Indian Ocean). It has a sterile, foliose, usually wrinkled, thallus whose margins produce goniocysts that disintegrate into a soredioid margin; it looks like a Leptogium species. Its phylogenetic position in the Arctomiaceae (Ostropomycetidae, Ascomycota) has been determined with 3 genes (nuLSU, mtSSU, RPB1) inferences.

Two new species of Lecanora sensu stricto (Lecanoraceae, Ascomycota) from east Africa
The new sorediate species Lecanora kenyana from Mount Kenya and L. orientoafricana from the Rift Valley in Kenya are described. L. kenyana has red-brown apothecia with a constricted base, a melacarpella–type amphithecium, pulicaris–type epihymenium, a hyaline hypothecium, and contains usnic acid as major constituent. L. orientoafricana is characterized bya dark hypothecium, pulicaris-type amphithecium, chlarotera-epihymenium, and contains atranorin and gangaleoidin. A phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood and a Bayesian approach based on DNA sequence data of mtSSU and ITS rDNA support that both new species belong to Lecanora sensu stricto and cluster with species containing usnic acid ora dark hypothecium, respectively.
["Kenya"]

Five species of Candelaria and Candelariella (Ascomycota, Candelariales) new to Switzerland
Candelaria pacifica, Candelariella antennaria, C. boleana, C. granuliformis and C. xanthostigmoides are reported from Switzerland for the first time. Candelariella xanthostigmoides is also new to Europe. Candelariella aggregata, C. efflorescens, C. subdeflexa and C. viae-lactea are confirmed to occur in Switzerland. Candelariella antennaria is also reported new to Austria. Brief notes on their identification, ecology and distribution in Switzerland are given.
["Candelariaceae"]

A review of the genus Bulbothrix Hale: the species with medullary norstictic or protocetraric acids
This study presents data of eight Bulbothrix (Parmeliaceae, Lichenized Fungi) species containing norstictic or protocetraric acid in the medulla. The current species delimitations were confirmed. New synonyms are proposed, new characteriscts are detailed and range extensions are added.
["Parmeliaceae"]

Clams running dry: greater drought tolerance in the non-native Asian clam (Corbicula complex) than in the native European Sphaerium rivicola
NeoBiota
Hydrological droughts driven by climate change threaten freshwater biodiversity, including relatively immobile bivalve fauna, unable to escape from air-exposed areas. Furthermore, they may exacerbate biological invasions by more resistant alien species. We measured survival and behavioural responses (migration following receding water line and burrowing) of the vulnerable native fingernail clam Sphaerium rivicola and the invasive Asian clam (Corbicula complex) to water level reduction and sandy substratum drying in a laboratory setting, to assess their susceptibility to a hydrological drought. Corbicula exhibited higher drought resistance with all clams surviving 15 days of air exposure, whereas S. rivicola reached LT50 (time at which 50% mortality occurred) in 5 days and LT90 (time at 90% mortality) in 8 days. During water level reduction, S. rivicola migrated by crawling downwards to wetter areas and reduced their burrowing depth, whereas Corbicula clams remained in place, burrowing deeper into the sediments. We demonstrate that the invasive Corbicula clams are superior to S. rivicola in surviving air exposure, and their burrowing confers an advantage in drought-prone habitats. In the context of climate change, increased drought frequency and duration may facilitate Corbicula’s dominance and replacement of less drought-resilient native bivalves, such as S. rivicola.
["Behaviour"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Using bioacoustics to assess the impact of evergreen invasive plants on bird communities in Wales, United Kingdom
NeoBiota
Invasive alien species are one of the major drivers of biodiversity loss, with birds amongst the most vulnerable taxa affected by their impacts. However, potential impacts on bird communities have rarely been investigated, particularly through bioacoustic monitoring and citizen-science approaches. Here, we present a pilot study testing the feasibility of using bioacoustic monitoring, supported by citizen scientists, to explore how the formation of an evergreen shrub layer of invasive alien plants (Rhododendron ponticum and Prunus laurocerasus) may influence bird communities in broadleaved woodlands in Wales, United Kingdom. We trained volunteer citizen scientists on how to use passive acoustic monitoring devices (AudioMoths) to record bird calls. We then used the BirdNET software to identify bird species from 480 hours of audio recordings. A total of 28 bird species from 17 families were identified from the recordings. Overall, the frequency of bird calls did not differ between the control and invaded plots. However, there was significant difference in the frequency of bird calls based on their trophic niches, suggesting that birds respond in different ways to the presence of invasive alien plants. This pilot study shows that bioacoustic monitoring is an effective tool for investigating invasive species impacts and that it can be integrated with citizen science to assess how invasive evergreen shrubs influence bird communities.
["AudioMoth"]
["Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Differences in antennal morphology and body size might offset increased overlap in food particle size among invasive Ponto-Caspian corophiids (Crustacea, Amphipoda)
NeoBiota
After Chelicorophium curvispinum, C. sowinskyi, and C. robustum, recently the fourth Ponto-Caspian filter feeding corophiid (C. maeoticum) has colonized the lower section of the River Rhine in the Netherlands. To test for niche differentiation among the four species along the food particle size spectrum, we measured their filter mesh sizes (i.e., the distance between bristles on the filtering setae). For comparison, we also analyzed a historic sample from the River Tisza in Hungary in which C. maeoticum co-occurred only with C. sowinskyi. We also compared the relative lengths and widths of the second antennae among the species, considering the potential involvement of this appendage in interference competition and deposit feeding. Despite significant interspecific differences in filter mesh sizes in most comparisons, there was a partial overlap between C. maeoticum and C. sowinskyi in the River Rhine but not in the River Tisza. In addition, there was an almost complete overlap between C. curvispinum and C. robustum. Marked interspecific differences could be observed in the relative widths of the second antennae in both sexes, potentially related to performance in competition for microhabitats. Remarkably, the earlier colonists C. curvispinum and C. sowinskyi have thinner second antennae while C. robustum and C. maeoticum with more robust appendages could establish in habitats already occupied by their congeners. Our results suggest that competition for both food and space can shape the coexistence and invasion patterns of Ponto-Caspian corophiids. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to reveal the range of behaviors second antennae are involved in and how their morphological features determine their functionality. The observed differentiation in the measured traits along with differences in body sizes close to the 1.3 ratio are likely to allow the coexistence of the four species and portend the continued spread of C. maeoticum.
["Coexistence"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Toxin-free honey despite the alien Senecio inaequidens DC. invasion – a pilot study
Senecio inaequidens, a fast-spreading perennial herb native to Southern Africa, is increasingly common in disturbed habitats across Europe, including urban areas. This species contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), natural toxins harmful to humans and animals. In this pilot study, we investigated the potential for PA contamination in honey from hives located near large S. inaequidens populations in Prague, Czechia. Pollen analysis of honey, hive-stored pollen and honeycomb samples indicated a low and infrequent presence of Asteraceae-type pollen, which could be, but not definitively, attributed to S. inaequidens. Chemical analysis using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) detected trace amounts of the PA echimidin in three honey samples, likely originating from Echium vulgare. No other PAs were detected above quantifiable levels. Our findings suggest that, under current conditions, S. inaequidens contributes minimally to PA contamination in honey and does not present a significant health risk. However, potential shifts in flowering phenology warrant continued monitoring to assess future risks.
["Health impact"]
["Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Plant and fungal interactions", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Artemia franciscana invasion causes rapid and dramatic ecological changes in hypersaline ecosystems
Aquatic ecosystems are characterised by strong trophic links, which can be profoundly altered by the loss or introduction of species. Invasive species that displace key native species may indirectly affect entire communities and ecosystem functioning. Introduced species often show distinctive traits that facilitate their success, such as reduced susceptibility to parasites that commonly infect native hosts. Here, we examine the ecological consequences of the invasion of the American brine shrimp Artemia franciscana on the native clonal species Artemia parthenogenetica and their cestode parasites in a hypersaline ecosystem. We carried out monthly sampling (January-June) in Odiel saltpans to compare Artemia population structure and cestode infections before (2011) and immediately after (2016) the invasion, quantifying host density, biomass and parasitological status. A. franciscana dominated and reached significantly higher densities than the native Artemia by the end of the spring 2016. Although both hosts shared the same parasite species, infection levels were markedly higher in the native species (47.33% vs. 5.30% prevalence). The cestode Flamingolepis liguloides was 18 times more frequent and induced stronger pathological effects (higher rates of castration and red colouration) in native Artemia. Invasive hosts showed a higher proportion of dead F. liguloides cysticercoids. The shift in dominant Artemia species is likely to affect other community members and ecosystem processes, given the keystone role of Artemia in hypersaline ecosystems. Our results highlight the importance of changes in host availability and host-parasite dynamics that can cascade through communities and influence entire ecosystems, particularly in the context of biological invasions.
["Artemia"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Invertebrate Immune Response Mechanisms"]

Invasive plant-induced shifts in water chemistry and microeukaryotes enhance mosquito development
Invasive non-native plants can cause ecological, economic, and health impacts worldwide, yet how these impacts cascade from a primary producer to multiple consumers remains poorly understood. Using aquatic microcosms, we examined how replacing the native reed Phragmites australis with the morphologically similar invader Arundo donax (0–100% leaf litter biomass gradient) alters water physicochemistry, microeukaryote assemblages, and the development of Culex pipiens mosquito larvae in northeastern Spain. Microeukaryotes are key players in microbial food webs, and mosquito larvae are microbial consumers. Increased A. donax leaf litter % disrupted microeukaryote taxonomic composition and functional guild structure, mainly due to changes in the density of flagellates, planktonic ciliates, and micrometazoa. Mosquito larval development was mainly driven by changes in water physicochemistry, flagellates, and amoebae. Microcosms with A. donax produced more mosquito pupae of greater weight and shorter development times. Effects emerged even when only 25% of P. australis biomass was replaced by A. donax, suggesting potentially strong nutrient limitations from P. australis leaf litter and posing challenges for defining a management “safe threshold” for A. donax when eradication is unfeasible. This study highlights A. donax leaf litter as a potential promoter of mosquito development and underscores the role of water chemistry and microeukaryotes in mediating its effects.
["Arundo donax"]
["Plant responses to water stress", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Fungal community assembly during Solidago canadensis shoot decomposition is driven by the plant’s invasion gradient
Solidago canadensis (L.) is an invasive plant species native to North America, but it is also widespread in Eurasia, Australia and New Zealand. Numerous authors suggest that the leaf litter of this plant decomposes rapidly. However, knowledge about the decomposition of its strongly lignified shoots, which remain in the environment for longer than one season, is limited. A comprehensive understanding of how fungal community assembly during Solidago canadensis shoot decomposition varies along the plant’s invasion gradient and which ecological factors drive these patterns, is still lacking. We conducted a one-year litterbag study to assess the mass loss of S. canadensis shoot litter within the gradient of its invasion, expressed as the percentage cover of this plant on the study plots. We also identified fungi participating in this process using a morphological approach and assessed their functional diversity. Predictions, based on generalised linear mixed models, revealed that the importance of different ecological mechanisms in fungal community assembly changed over the course of the decomposition, as mass loss of S. canadensis shoots progressed: from the prevalence of habitat filtering and niche differentiation to interspecific competition and, subsequently, habitat filtering again. We conclude that the decomposition starts with the high activity of endophytes, which are highly adapted to particular conditions within S. canadensis tissues and ends with saprotrophs that are highly specialised in the decomposition of plant litter. Moreover, our results suggest that the most abundant fungi, which we identified as weak degraders, appear to be unaffected by S. canadensis cover. This indicates their potential to decompose the type of plant litter recently introduced to the ecosystem. Based on this finding, we wish to place the emphasis on the invasiveness of S. canadensis, whose litter can be degraded by native fungi already present in the ecosystem, thereby allowing large amounts of newly-introduced biomass to enter the carbon cycle. This suggests that the invasibility of Natura 2000-protected mesic meadows may increase, as native fungi readily establish novel interactions with non-native plant species. Moreover, other areas similar to them within the secondary range of S. canadensis may be habitats more susceptible to changes than expected before.
["decomposition"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Using a spatially explicit population model to evaluate management scenarios for an invasive deer population
Effective management of invasive species requires robust projections of how alternative management strategies influence long-term invasion outcomes, required effort, and associated trade-offs. We used a spatially explicit population model, linked with empirical data on aerial culling efficiency, to project (from 2023 to 2060) alternative management scenarios for limiting the spread and establishment of an invasive fallow deer (Dama dama) population in a high-value conservation area, the Walls of Jerusalem National Park (WJNP), Tasmania, Australia. We compared six feasible aerial culling scenarios that varied in the frequency (annual, biennial, or five-yearly) and spatial extent (broad versus concentrated management zones) of control, relative to a baseline scenario with no future management. Scenarios were evaluated in terms of their ability to limit deer occupancy and abundance within the WJNP, the cumulative presence of deer over time, the amount of management effort required, and population-level animal welfare outcomes. All management scenarios reduced deer invasion into the WJNP relative to no management, but strategies that applied culling across a broad spatial extent were consistently more effective than those targeting only high-density source areas. More frequent culling further improved outcomes, although gains were modest relative to changes in spatial extent. Strategies that combined broad-scale culling with annual or biennial frequency achieved the best balance between reducing invasion pressure and limiting management effort, while also resulting in fewer deer being culled overall. Complete exclusion of deer from the WJNP was achievable only under a more intensive strategy involving annual culling across a substantially expanded area, but this required a nearly four-fold increase in effort compared to the scenarios aimed at minimising, rather than eliminating, invasion. Our results highlight trade-offs between management effectiveness, effort, and welfare outcomes, and demonstrate how spatial population models coupled with operational data can support practical, evidence-based decisions for managing invasive species.
["Aerial culling"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

Eco-evolutionary experience outweighs soil effects in shaping Senecio inaequidens invasion success
Introduced species encounter novel biotic and abiotic conditions that influence their success in new environments. Their advantages often arise from reduced competition with species lacking eco-evolutionary experience and from their capacity to preempt or efficiently use resources. Once established, their success can also be shaped by interactions with soil microbial communities. Understanding how these factors influence invasion success can provide valuable insights into identifying the mechanisms that enable certain species to become dominant in a plant community. In this study, we examined how eco-evolutionary experience and invaded-range soil bacterial communities modulate the performance of the invasive subshrub Senecio inaequidens DC. We conducted a fully factorial additive experiment in growth chambers, with S. inaequidens individuals growing at the center of each pot. The design included two factors: (1) competitor community identity with three levels (i.e., plant species from the native range (South Africa), species from the invaded range (Italy), and a control with no competitor species); and (2) soil biotic conditions with two levels (i.e., autoclaved soil with reduced microbial load and non-autoclaved soil). Our results showed that plant community identity had the strongest effect on S. inaequidens growth (height and lateral spread), with the smallest individuals occurring in competition with species from the native range. Growing on autoclaved soil had no major impact on plant height, suggesting that soil microbial communities played a minor role modulating competitive interactions, which were the dominant driver of plant growth responses. Suppression was strongest when competitors were phylogenetically closer to S. inaequidens, especially those from its native range. Soil bacterial communities were influenced by both competitor community identity and soil treatment, with lower bacterial diversity found in pots with better Senecio plant growth. These results indicate that promoting competition with closely related natives and maintaining diverse soil microbiota may limit invasion success.
["Eco-evolutionary experience"]
["Evolutionary Game Theory and Cooperation", "Evolution and Genetic Dynamics", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Wing shape changes as a proxy for invasion success in Antarctica: case study of Psychoda albipennis (Psychodidae) using geometric morphometrics
Invasions of exotic species in fragile and pristine ecosystems, such as those of Antarctica, is a growing ecological concern. Psychoda albipennis, a cosmopolitan saprophagous fly, has recently become established in the Maritime Antarctic South Shetland Islands archipelago, raising questions about its potential for adaptation and expansion. This study analyses wing morphological variation amongst Maritime Antarctic and Magellanic sub-Antarctic populations of P. albipennis using geometric morphometrics to infer rapid adaptive responses to the extreme Antarctic environment. The data obtained reveal significant differences in wing shape and size, with Maritime Antarctic flies exhibiting narrower and more elongated wings, an aerodynamic configuration likely favoured under stronger wind conditions. Additionally, interannual reduction in wing size in the Maritime Antarctic population suggests an adaptive thermoregulatory strategy, partially consistent with the temperature–size rule. These morphological changes are likely to be associated with selective pressures, such as wind strength and minimum temperatures, which explained 46% and 2.74% of the shape variation, respectively. Our findings support the hypothesis of rapid phenotypic response processes, reflecting an early stage of successful adaptation. Given the species’ potential ecological impact, including alterations in decomposition processes and trophic networks, we emphasise the need to implement early detection and preventative management strategies. This research highlights the value of geometric morphometrics as a cost-effective and practically applicable tool for identifying adaptive patterns in biological invasions and supports the application of integrative approaches combining morphological, genomic and physiological data to anticipate and mitigate the consequences of future invasions in Antarctica.
["Biological invasion"]
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Polar Research and Ecology", "Spaceflight effects on biology"]

Metabolism, movement behaviour, and salinity responses of invasive mosquitofish compared with a threatened toothcarp
The success and impact of invasive non-native species depend on how they cope with local abiotic conditions, especially in comparison to co-occurring native taxa. In aquatic systems, salinity serves as a key environmental filter, mediating the establishment of invasive species and influencing biotic interactions. However, the mechanistic basis behind these context-dependent responses remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined interspecific differences in metabolic rate, movement behaviour, and their relationship between the worldwide invasive Gambusia holbrooki and a threatened Spanish endemic fish Aphanius iberus across an experimentally-manipulated salinity gradient. Using intermittent-flow respirometry and automated tracking of movement patterns, we compared aerobic metabolic traits and movement behaviours under various salinities. Toothcarp maintained a stable aerobic scope across salinity treatments, whereas invasive mosquitofish exhibited a markedly lower aerobic scope with higher salinity, primarily due to a decline in maximum metabolic rate. This stress response was not linked to increased osmoregulatory costs, as baseline metabolism decreased. Behavioural tests demonstrated consistent species differences in routine locomotion, with mosquitofish showing more exploratory behaviour and toothcarp showing more stop-go behaviour and remaining more stationary overall. Notably, in toothcarps, we found a negative link between standard metabolic rate and space use, suggesting that individuals with higher baseline metabolism may be constrained in their movement. Conversely, in mosquitofish, although salinity affected metabolic capacities, this effect was not reflected in their movement, indicating a weak relationship between metabolism and behaviour, likely supported by trait flexibility. By integrating metabolic traits with behavioural data, our results reveal mechanisms underlying invasive species responses and strengthen predictions of their performance relative to native fishes under changing conditions, such as salinity in inland waters. This highlights the importance of trait-based approaches for predicting responses to abiotic stressors and for evaluating the ecological impacts of invasive taxa.
["Aerobic scope"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Genetic assessment of the introduced rats found on Lord Howe Island post rodent eradication, new invaders or remnant survivors?
The black rat (Rattus rattus) is one of the most prevalent invasive species globally, having significant impacts across ecosystems as a competitor, predator, and driver of disease for native biota. These impacts have been especially severe on islands. Rat eradication programmes as a conservation management intervention have been undertaken on many islands around the world, including on Australia’s Lord Howe Island (LHI), located in the southwest Pacific, 600 km east of the Australian mainland. In 1918, the black rat was accidentally introduced to LHI, now recognised as a World Heritage-listed biodiverse subtropical island. The impact on LHI’s unique biodiversity was catastrophic, with many endemic taxa becoming extinct or severely declining. A Rodent Eradication Programme (REP) for LHI was launched in early 2019, and by October 2019 detections of rodents had ceased. However, in April 2021, black rats were again detected in the settlement area of LHI. To determine if the rats detected on LHI post-REP were new invaders or remnant individuals, mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite analysis were carried out. Only a single identical CytB haplotype was detected in the pre- and post-REP LHI rats. The black rats sampled from New South Wales (NSW) on the east coast of the Australian mainland and southwest Pacific islands mostly had similar but consistently different CytB haplotypes to LHI rats, or highly divergent haplotypes. Microsatellite data demonstrated that the NSW mainland and LHI pre-REP rat populations were genetically differentiated, with little evidence of gene flow between them in either direction despite potential dispersal routes. The LHI post-REP rats had low genetic diversity, were highly interrelated, and appear to be descended from a small number of individuals. Genetic clustering analyses grouped the LHI post-REP rats with the LHI pre-REP population rather than the NSW mainland population. Thus, both the microsatellite and mtDNA results are consistent with the LHI post-REP rats being the descendants of a small number of the LHI pre-REP population and not new invaders from the NSW mainland population.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Designing biosurveillance using target analysis for a cryptic invasive species, the brown treesnake (Boiga irregularis)
Biosurveillance is especially important for invasive species that are difficult to control or remove once established. Target analysis, or the strategic evaluation of factors that affect or improve detection of organisms, is one approach to improve biosurveillance over time. Due to their ecologically and economically devastating effects, brown treesnakes (Boiga irregularis), an invasive snake in the United States territory of Guam, have a dedicated biosecurity program to prevent their spread. Guam has been occupied by brown treesnakes since the 1940s, and they are distributed throughout the island. The neighboring Saipan Island, otherwise known as Saipan, participates in biosecurity programs designed to prevent their establishment. We evaluated biosurveillance protocols within rapid response and detection exercises for brown treesnakes. Our goal was to identify, account for, and reduce potential error when inferring absence from lack of detection using data collected in Guam and Saipan. We evaluated 1) whether brown treesnake detection probability was density dependent; 2) whether using terrestrial environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling detected snakes in occupied areas; 3) the likelihood brown treesnakes would have been detected in Saipan, given sampling effort during a biosurveillance exercise, and whether lizards could be used as a proxy on snake-free islands for estimating factors that affect detection; 4) the effect of transect design on pacing and subsequently pacing on lizard counts; and 5) the importance of observer training in surveying for cryptic reptiles and completing broad versus targeted bioinventories. We found that brown treesnake detection probability was density dependent when using visual surveys and declined with abundance in Guam, supporting that greater effort was required to have high confidence that lack of detection supported absence in areas with low snake densities. The terrestrial eDNA sampling protocol we developed was effective at detecting snakes in occupied locations in Guam and may be a complementary tool. However, further validation of eDNA protocols would still be required for early detection application. We also found that among trained observers, the ability to detect lizards was positively predictive of the number of snakes they detected at the standard snake densities in Guam. Thus, lizard detection appeared to be a reasonable proxy for evaluating visual search protocols for snakes on snake-free islands. Overall, creating easy pace-setting relationships between time and distance (i.e., 10 m per min), with flagging that clearly marked location on a transect, greatly reduced variability in search pace across survey nights. Observers that were continuously trained to maintain brown treesnake search profiles detected twice as many, on average, cryptic reptiles compared to individuals who had never received training, which was not true for the non-reptiles (birds and small mammals). Additionally, conducting broad bioinventories with many target species reduced detection of the target species, and this was increasingly true as years since the observer completed training for the target species increased. We thus found that designing biosurveillance exercises to evaluate search protocols can help improve or refine survey methods to reduce noise in the data, and accounting for that can improve the estimated confidence that failure to detect an invasive species infers absence.
["Boiga irregularis"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Functional trait interactions drive seed buoyancy and dispersal strategies in Echinocystis lobata
Hydrochory (water dispersal) is a major driver of plant invasions in riparian landscapes but both the diaspore traits that determine flotation and the contribution of water-mediated transport to the colonization success of non-native species remain insufficiently understood. Echinocystis lobata, an alien vine widely naturalized along European rivers, provides a suitable model for testing how seed morphology governs buoyancy and, consequently, hydrochorous dispersal potential. The main aim of this study was to examine how functional traits influence the buoyancy of E. lobata seeds, which can be classified as normal seeds, freely released from fruits, and trapped seeds, retained within fruits. We investigated three hypotheses under controlled laboratory conditions: (H1) seed mass, particularly in interaction with thickness, determines sinking probability; (H2) surface area affects flotation mainly through interactions with mass; and (H3) trapped seeds differ functionally from normally released seeds. Using a generalized linear mixed-effects model, we demonstrated that buoyancy is governed by non-linear interactions among mass, thickness, and surface area, with distinct patterns for trapped versus normal seeds. Thin normal seeds floated longer as mass increased, whereas in trapped seeds higher mass accelerated sinking. Surface area influenced flotation only when combined with mass and trapping status. Normal seeds remained buoyant for up to 14 days, while trapped seeds sank sooner (≤11 days). These findings highlight that variability in diaspore traits generates a broad spectrum of dispersal outcomes, supporting both local deposition and long-distance hydrochoric transport. Understanding how trait-vector interactions shape dispersal enhances invasion risk prediction and informs management strategies, such as removing reproductive plants near waterways before fruit maturation. Overall, our results demonstrate that hydrochory, amplified by diaspore heteromorphism, may be a key driver increasing the invasiveness of E. lobata in European river valleys.
["Hydrochory"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Hydrology and Sediment Transport Processes"]

Establishment of the blue crab Callinectes sapidus (Rathbun, 1896) in a Mediterranean hypersaline basin: evidence of ecological plasticity and range expansion
A central aspect of ecology is the understanding of how environmental factors influence species distribution, population structure, and dynamics, ultimately highlighting species’ capacity to adapt to environmental shifts. This study investigates the population structure and environmental drivers influencing Callinectes sapidus (Rathbun, 1896) within a hypersaline basin (Stagnone di Marsala, Sicily, Italy), highlighting the species’ adaptability to Mediterranean hypersaline coastal ecosystems. The presence of both sexes at various developmental stages indicates the full establishment of the population within the Stagnone, confirming that ecological opportunism, high salinity tolerance, and thermal preference enable C. sapidus to invade areas encompassing a wide range of environments. Two sampling methods were adopted: baited traps and gillnets. The nets captured larger, more mobile males, while traps were effective for a broader size range and included more female individuals. Population structure varied across different sectors of the basin, with the Center–North area showing the highest abundance, likely due to favorable habitat conditions and limited water exchange with the sea. These results emphasize the ability of C. sapidus to complete its life cycle under hypersaline conditions and its preference for stable, sheltered environments. The findings have significant implications for managing C. sapidus populations and mitigating their ecological impact. Adaptive management strategies, such as targeted harvesting and monitoring of salinity and temperature, are key to controlling this invasive species and protecting Mediterranean coastal ecosystems.
["Coastal ecosystem"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

I eat what my mother eats. Maternal effects on food preferences in invasive amphipods
Invasive alien species achieve their success through a set of traits that give them a fitness advantage over other species. Many of them are characterised by a generalist diet with an inclination to carnivory. The feeding habits of aquatic animals depend on environmental conditions operating at the population level, but the population origin and genetic background are rarely taken into account. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of the intraspecific genetic variability on the inheritance of feeding habits. We bred individuals of an invasive amphipod, Dikerogammarus villosus (Sowinsky, 1894), under semi-natural conditions in a mesocosm system, interbreeding genetically differentiated invasive populations originating from geographically isolated areas (Danube and Dnieper Deltas) or by inbreeding within the populations. We then tested food preferences of the F1 offspring (n = 256) in a 24-hour experiment providing them three food types: leaves, fish tissue and live chironomid larvae. Our results show that, despite similar breeding conditions applied to all experimental groups, populations of different origins varied in their food preferences. It appeared that the level of necrophagy or predation depended on the origin of the maternal population. Interestingly, inter-population hybrids exhibited a higher predation rate compared to pure strains. Our research shows that some traits related to invasiveness are influenced by the maternal effects and are shaped not only by the environment, but also depend on the population origin. To better predict the course and consequences of invasions, we stress the need to study the biology of invasive species using multiple populations.
["Amphipod breeding cultures"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Hitchhikers on dead shells: an unanticipated pathway of alien species invasion associated with discarded seafood remains at oyster tasting sites
Shellfish mariculture, particularly of oysters, poses a significant risk for the introduction of non-native species into marine ecosystems. This study investigates the diversity of invertebrate species colonizing live and discarded oyster shells originating from a farm and oyster bar in the Tylihul Estuary, a region with active oyster farming. Advanced molecular techniques identified several invasive species associated with the discarded shells, including Semibalanus balanoides, Austrominius modestus and Monocorophium insidiosum. These taxa have not been previously documented in the region. Our findings indicate that macrofaunal composition differs between live and discarded oyster shells, and that the richness of invasive invertebrates associated with oyster shells is higher than expected. The discarded shells not only act as a substrate for colonization but also serve as potential vectors for biological invasions. We performed a Species-related Risk Assessment to identify the potential ecological impacts on local biodiversity and ecosystems of the invasive species associated with oysters. Our study proposes management strategies aimed at mitigating the risks associated with shells discarded by oyster bars. Our recommendations include informing recreational travellers and retailers about the implications of discarding shells into the water and advocating for the control of risks related to the use of shells as a construction material.
["Biofouling"]
["Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

First records of egg parasitoids of Halyomorpha halys (Stål, 1855) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae) in Hungary
The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys (Stål, 1855) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is a highly polyphagous pest native to South Korea, North Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and China, which has become invasive in the Americas and Europe. H. halys has spread rapidly in invaded areas, causing crop damage and nuisance problems due to large overwintering populations. In recent years, several studies have investigated parasitoids of H. halys within its invaded regions. These studies recovered the coevolved parasitoids Trissolcus japonicus and Tr. mitsukurii in the regions. The present research surveyed parasitoids of H. halys in Hungary and cities in Southeastern Europe (Oradea, Novi Sad, and Sofia). Several native European parasitoids belonging to the families Encyrtidae, Eupelmidae, and Scelionidae were recorded parasitizing eggs of H. halys under field conditions, with the most common species being Anastatus bifasciatus. In addition to native parasitoids, Tr. japonicus and Tr. mitsukurii were recorded for the first time in Hungary and Oradea, respectively. Further studies are needed to explore the relationship between native and exotic species and to evaluate their impacts, which will help identify the optimal approach for utilizing these parasitoid species in managing H. halys.
["Anastatus bifasciatus"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Research on scale insects"]

Distribution of parasitic larvae of non-native Sinanodonta woodiana on fish hosts across an invasion gradient
The Chinese pond mussel (Sinanodonta woodiana) is a highly invasive freshwater bivalve, recognised for its broad host range and ecological plasticity. Its obligate parasitic larvae (glochidia) must attach to fish hosts to complete development, potentially disrupting native host-parasite interactions. We investigated patterns of natural infection by glochidia of S. woodiana and native unionid species across six sites in Poland that differ in habitat type and invasion history. Using whole-body dissections of 601 wild fish belonging to eight species, we quantified glochidia prevalence, intensity of infection and attachment site preferences. Glochidia of S. woodiana were widespread and present on all fish species, with the greatest loads on Carassius gibelio and Rhodeus amarus. In contrast, native mussels (primarily Unio spp.) infected only a subset of hosts and at lower prevalence. Habitat type strongly influenced parasite loads, with higher infection levels observed in lentic compared to lotic habitats. Glochidia of S. woodiana attached both to gills and fins, whereas native unionids predominantly targeted the gills. This spatial disparity may reflect differences in infection strategies or host immune responses. Although previous studies have shown that prior infection by S. woodiana can reduce the success of subsequent native mussel infections, our study found simultaneous infections and no significant association between native and invasive glochidia under natural conditions. Our findings underscore the generalist nature and potential ecological dominance of S. woodiana, while highlighting risks posed to native mussel reproduction. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies for native unionid populations in freshwater ecosystems under pressure from biological invasions.
["Biological invasion"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology"]

Estimating relative density of an invasive ungulate in a biodiversity hotspot using drone-based thermal video surveys
New Caledonia’s unique terrestrial habitats – primarily mountain rainforest and sclerophyll forest – face significant threats from invasive ungulates, particularly Javan deer (Rusa timorensis), introduced in the 19th century and now widespread. Since deer are an important game and food source for local communities, the management strategy aims to mitigate their detrimental impact on ecosystems while maintaining populations at levels that continue to support hunting. To achieve these objectives, effective and reliable population monitoring methods are essential. Unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) equipped with thermal sensors represent a potentially superior alternative to conventional ground-based methods for ungulate inventories, particularly in remote and difficult-to-access areas. In this study, we explored the feasibility of using a rotor-wing drone and a thermal camera to estimate the relative density of Javan deer in two protected areas: Domaine de Déva (7,319 ha) and Parc provincial des Grandes Fougères (8,098 ha). Visual line-of-sight flights were conducted after sunset at altitudes of 80 and 100 m above ground level, with the camera fixed at 40° or 0° angles. In Déva, we surveyed 10 sampling blocks, and in Grandes Fougères, 4 blocks (each ranging from 56 to 92 ha). In the predominantly open savanna area of Déva, the estimated relative population density was 116 deer/km2 (SE = 26.8), with some blocks exceeding 400 deer/km2. In contrast, in the dense canopy rainforest of Grandes Fougères, the relative density was 7 deer/km2 (SE = 2.8), with a local maximum of 18 deer/km2. Differences in deer counts between consecutive flights over the same blocks (with time gaps of less than 100 minutes) were minor, demonstrating that drone surveys are highly repeatable – an essential quality for a reliable population monitoring program. To detect a 25% population reduction with a statistical power of 0.8, surveying 10 sampling blocks was sufficient in the high deer density savanna area, whereas approximately 28 blocks would be required in the rainforest. The logistics of drone operations were relatively straightforward in the savanna; however, in the rainforest, we encountered practical difficulties, including a limited number of suitable take-off sites and restricted visibility due to the dense canopy cover. Despite these obstacles, the method proved to be an effective and efficient approach for monitoring deer populations in the challenging landscapes of New Caledonia.
["Javan deer"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and biodiversity studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Seek and you shall find: Detection of alien bryozoans along the Chilean SE Pacific coast with a simple and cost-efficient methodology
Invasions by non-indigenous species (NIS) are among the major problems that coastal ecosystems are facing globally and are driven by anthropogenic activities, such as international vessel traffic and aquaculture. Bryozoans are typical constituents of vessel hull-fouling communities, and the phylum contains several notorious globally invasive species. Few NIS, including bryozoan species, are reported along the Chilean Southeast Pacific coast, which has traditionally been attributed to the local oceanographic and ecologic conditions. However, the low numbers may also be the consequence of insufficient monitoring, as well as the small size and morphologic similarity of many species, which hinders their detection. Here, we deployed artificial floating settlement plates in strategic locations (ports/marinas or aquaculture sites) along the Chilean coast (from 29°S to 41°S), to detect non-indigenous bryozoans. With this method, we found a total of 14 species, including five NIS and four cryptogenic species. Additionally, we report two NIS from opportunistic findings in the rocky intertidal zone and from a piece of plastic litter. Three species represent new records from Chile: Bugulina cf. fulva, Bugulina stolonifera, and Watersipora arcuata. These are described in detail in the present paper. The new records importantly enhance the number of known (bryozoan) invasions along the Chilean coast and corroborate the need for regular monitoring. The installation of artificial settlement plates at high-risk sites (especially ports and marinas) has proven to be a successful and efficient low-cost approach, which can help to detect NIS introductions in their early stages, before spreading to natural environments. Regular monitoring of these sites, as well as compulsory legislation for hull cleaning, both for long-distance (nationally and internationally) travelling and local vessels, could greatly reduce the problem.
["Bryozoa"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Integrative taxonomy reveals non-native Squalius hybrids in the Iberian Peninsula
The introduction of non-native species poses a critical threat to biodiversity in Mediterranean freshwater ecosystems. This study documents the first record of non-native Squalius hybrids in the Ave River (Iberian Peninsula), combining morphological and molecular data to confirm their presence and assess their potential origin. The specimens exhibit hybrid characteristics, with most morphological and meristic traits overlapping those of both S. cephalus and S. squalus. Almost all individuals analysed showed an admixed genomic background for both species, suggesting a hybrid origin likely within the species’ native range before their introduction into Portugal through human-mediated activities, likely related to recreational fishing. Furthermore, molecular data also supports hybridization with the native S. carolitertii, raising conservation concerns given the negative impacts associated with hybridization with non-native species. By combining data from social media and citizen science platforms, we were able to map the rapid expansion of this invasive chub in the Ave River from 2018 until now. Our findings emphasize the urgent need for population control measures, while enhancing monitoring, genetic studies, and increased public awareness to mitigate the impacts of invasive species on Iberian freshwater biodiversity.
["Ave river"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant and animal studies"]

Integrating social media and environmental DNA records to enhance surveillance and improve early detection of invasive species
The early detection of invasive species in aquatic ecosystems is particularly challenging with most records of new species made years after their initial invasion, by which time they are already widespread. Recently, early detection tools such as citizen science and environmental DNA have emerged, significantly improving early warnings in aquatic ecosystems. However, there is limited understanding of how these new tools complement each other and how consistent they are. In this study, we present a case study combining social media data mining and environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect new records of the invasive European perch (Perca fluviatilis) in mainland Portugal. From 2021 to 2024, we analyzed online angling groups to identify potential new areas of invasion. Later, water samples were collected from several reservoirs and tested for the European perch presence using real-time quantitative PCR. This combined approach detected four new locations of European perch. Moreover, eDNA analysis revealed three new potential populations, while data mining appears to offer near real-time tracking of the species’ spread. This work showcases the improved efficiency and early detection benefits of this integrated approach for monitoring freshwater invasive fish, with broader applicability to other invasive species.
["Data mining"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Epiphytic algae mitigate the inhibitory effects of two aquatic invasive plants, Pontederia crassipes and Pistia stratiotes, on a submerged plant community
Exotic plant invasions and epiphytic algae potentially influence the growth of submerged plants. However, the effect of epiphytic algae on the resistance of submerged native plants to plant invasion is elusive. Therefore, we conducted this study to explore the effects of invasion scenarios and epiphytic algae on a submerged plant community (Hydrilla verticillata, Potamogeton wrightii, and Vallisneria natans) and water quality. We set up a control experiment with four invasion scenarios (no invasion, Pontederia crassipes invasion, Pistia stratiotes invasion, and co-invasion of P. crassipes and P. stratiotes) and two epiphytic algal states (with and without epiphytic algae). The presence of invasive plants resulted in significantly lower biomass (P < 0.01) of the submerged plant community without epiphytic algae than that with epiphytic algae, and the community biomass was lowest in the case of co-invasion. The presence of epiphytic algae resulted in native plants exhibiting competitive interactions only during co-invasion, whereas native plants exhibited competitive interactions at all times in the absence of epiphytic algae. Total nitrogen and phosphorus contents in water were lowest in the absence of invasion. Additionally, total phosphorus contents was highest in the presence of epiphytic algae and co-invasion. These results demonstrate that co-invasion strongly inhibits the growth of submerged plant communities more than single invasions, and epiphytic algae potentially offset this suppression. These findings will provide a scientific basis for submerged native plant restoration in wetland ecosystem.
["Co-invasion"]
["Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Predatory interactions between two global aquatic invaders beyond their native ranges: An experimental approach
The widespread distribution of invasive species inevitably leads to the emergence of a new category of biotic relationships: interspecific predatory interactions between invasive species. We assessed the vulnerability of different life stages of the clawed frog, Xenopus laevis (eggs, hatchlings, tadpoles, newly-metamorphosed froglets, and adults), to predation by the Eastern mosquitofish, Gambusia holbrooki, and evaluated whether adult clawed frogs prey upon juvenile and adult mosquitofish. The results confirm differences in the palatability of different ontogenetic stages of the clawed frog by mosquitofish, as well as the low palatability of mosquitofish for adult frogs, with the exception of fish juveniles, which are relatively protected in the light but highly vulnerable under low-light conditions. Therefore, these fish-amphibian interactions are complex and can be defined as unequal bidirectional predation: the mosquitofish readily eliminates its early-stage opponent, but may become prey for its adult individuals. The revealed existence of a vulnerable mosquitofish stage makes it difficult to predict the unconditional suppression of clawed frog populations by this fish species when these two global aquatic invaders become syntopic in new regions. In any case, mosquitofish are likely to dominate in urban water bodies in locations with constant artificial lighting. We emphasise the importance of studying interactions at all ontogenetic stages, as well as taking into account the lifestyle of the organisms studied when analysing the mechanisms of predatory interactions between any pairs of invasive species in new areas of the planet. Graphical abstract
["Gambusia holbrooki"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Shift in parasite load in native and non-native Eupercarian fish species living in sympatry
Non-native species have the potential to alter host community structure, which, in turn, may affect parasite transmission, diversity and distribution, particularly when the introduced host is ecologically or phylogenetically related to its native host(s). In this study, we examine whether the introduction of a competent non-native fish host shifts parasite load and community composition in native fish species. Specifically, we focus on two Eupercarian species: the native Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis) and the non-native pumpkinseed sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus), which was introduced into Europe from North America. Our results show that the parasite community of native perch co-occurring with non-native pumpkinseed (sympatric populations) differ significantly from those of perch inhabiting sites unaffected by pumpkinseed introduction (allopatric populations). Moreover, sympatric perch populations exhibit significantly higher parasite abundance, infracommunity richness and dominance, along with lower equitability, compared to allopatric populations. These findings suggest that the introduction of pumpkinseed may have contributed to shifts in both parasite abundance and diversity in native fish hosts. Additionally, our study indicates a potential parasite spillback of the trematode Bucephalus polymorphus and spill-over of the Asian invasive parasitic copepod Neoergasilus japonicus, both associated with pumpkinseed establishment in the study area. The successful inclusion of non-native fish species into the life cycles of several independently introduced and unrelated invasive parasites underscores the importance of introduced hosts in driving changes within local parasite communities.
["Freshwater fish"]

Nutrient enrichment and artificial light at night synergistically confer a competitive advantage to alien aquatic species over natives
Many freshwater ecosystems are currently facing the dual challenges of artificial light at night (ALAN) and nutrient enrichment. How these simultaneously acting environmental factors affect competitive outcomes between alien and native aquatic plants has not been thoroughly investigated. Here, we conducted a greenhouse experiment to quantify the competitive outcomes and their determinants of nine pairs of alien and native aquatic plant species in China under fully crossed factorial combinations of ALAN (Ambient vs. ALAN) and nutrient enrichment (Low vs. High). Nutrient enrichment significantly affected competitive outcomes. Specifically, native species tended to have more biomass under low-nutrient conditions, while the reverse was true under high-nutrient, although the trends were not significant. This pattern was even more pronounced in the presence of ALAN. Differential effects of nutrient enrichment and ALAN on interspecific competition of alien and native species may be responsible for variation in competitive outcomes. We found that nutrient enrichment tended to increase the interspecific competition coefficients for native species, whereas an opposite trend for alien species was observed, this effect being most prominent in the presence of ALAN. Our findings suggest that nutrient enrichment and ALAN could synergistically confer a competitive advantage to alien species over native species. Therefore, intervention measures are necessary to minimise nutrient enrichment of freshwater habitats, especially in habitats exposed to light pollution resulting from ALAN.
["Artificial light at night"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Invasive potential of Phymactis papillosa: assessing environmental tolerance and ecological impact on the Portuguese intertidal ecosystems
Human activities and environmental changes have significantly increased the introduction of non-native species (NIS) into marine habitats, posing a challenge to biodiversity and ecosystem management. This study presents a comprehensive approach to assess the invasiveness of Phymactis papillosa, a recently introduced sea anemone on the Portuguese intertidal coast. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the salinity and temperature tolerances of this species and predict its potential distribution beyond its native range. A total of 270 individuals were used in a two-factor experimental design with groups of six individuals at five temperature treatments (15, 19, 23, 27, 31 °C) and three salinity conditions (32, 35, 38 psu) replicated three times. Mortality levels were measured after two weeks. Results showed that salinity had no impact on mortality, but temperature significantly affected survival. At 31 °C, all individuals died, at 27 °C mortality level was intermediate, and no mortality occurred at 23 °C or lower. These findings suggest that P. papillosa could potentially invade the Portuguese coast, the northern Iberian Peninsula, and the North Sea; however the high temperatures of the Mediterranean may be a limiting factor. Being confined to the rocky intertidal zone, P. papillosa could compete with native species, particularly with those from the same functional group. Aggressive interactions with six native sea anemone species were induced, with P. papillosa dominating three species from the genus Actinia and showing equivalent behaviour to A. sulcata. This behavioural dominance may negatively impact the spatial distribution of native Actinia species. The integration of these findings suggests that P. papillosa should be classified as an invasive species with the potential to significantly impact benthic communities along the Portuguese and northern Atlantic intertidal coasts.
["Behaviour"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Differential elemental accumulation of the signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) along an invasion gradient
The non-native signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) can influence elemental cycling in aquatic ecosystems through bioaccumulation and transfer of chemical elements, with potential spatial variation along invasion gradients. In this study, we investigate the differences in elemental exposure in signal crayfish in the Rabaçal River, Portugal. We focus on potential intra-population differences along a well-defined invasion gradient, comparing individuals from the invasion core (upstream) and the downstream expanding front (n = 30 each). We examined 57 elements in the muscle of the signal crayfish, including essential elements (EEs): Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mg, Ca, Fe, Se, V, S; non-essential and potentially toxic elements (PTEs): Cd, Hg, Pb, U, As, Sr, Ba, Cr, Zr, Cs, Tl; and technology-critical elements (TCEs): Ti, Rb, La, Ce, Pr, Gd, Dy, Ho, Er, Yb, Ga, Ge, Hf, Ta, In, Re, Te, Pt. We explored the relationship between element concentrations and signal crayfish trophic ecology, inferred through stable isotope analysis (δ13C and δ15N), behaviour, and epibiotic associate load – factors known to shape invasion success through their effects on resource acquisition, competition, and physiological stress. Significant differences in element concentrations were found between individuals from the core and front. Individuals from the front showed higher levels (mean µg/kg, dry weight) of Co: (476 vs. 297), V: (390 vs. 262), Mn: (2.6 × 104 vs. 1.0 × 104), Hg: (2526 vs.1658), and Ta: (21 vs. 11). These patterns suggest that front individuals, with higher δ15N values and more exploratory behaviour, feed at higher trophic levels (e.g., macroinvertebrates), which may explain the elevated concentrations of biomagnifying elements such as Hg and Ta. On the other hand, individuals from the core had higher levels of Pb: (361 vs. 234), and Sr: (39772 vs. 20018), likely due to a diet based on basal resources, as supported by the strong negative correlation between Pb and δ13C, indicating reliance on benthic sources more prone to lead accumulation. This study increases our understanding of contaminant accumulation along an invasion gradient, offering insights for management practices – such as targeted removal of highly contaminated individuals, improved monitoring of metal levels in invaded areas, and public awareness campaigns – to minimise ecological impacts on higher trophic levels.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Functional trait responses of emergent and free-floating Alternanthera philoxeroides to increasing salinity with sea level rise: stress tolerance, avoidance, and escape strategies
Sea level rise is having major impacts on estuaries due to salinity intrusion. These changes in stress profiles have ripple effects in ecosystems, including altering the invasibility of these wetlands depending on the salt tolerance of the invading species. Alternanthera philoxeroides Mart. (Griseb.) (alligator weed), native to South America and long recognized as one of the world’s worst freshwater aquatic weeds, recently invaded tidal wetlands in California’s San Francisco Bay–Delta Estuary. Generally considered a freshwater-limited glycophyte, observations suggested this invasive macrophyte may have some degree of salinity tolerance, though its degree of tolerance and capacity to spread with increased salinity intrusion were unknown. In two full-factorial greenhouse experiments, we assessed responses of emergent (soil-rooted) and free-floating growth forms of A. philoxeroides to four salinity concentrations (freshwater to euhaline) at the whole-plant (growth, biomass production and allocation, fitness), physiological, and biochemical levels. We also conducted a third experiment exploring the recovery potential of free-floating A. philoxeroides in freshwater following extended exposure to mesohaline to euhaline aqueous salinity. Although sensitivity of A. philoxeroides to increasing salinity was documented, the survival of both growth forms in the full range of salinity treatments was notable and unexpected. Our results indicate A. philoxeroides is a facultative halophyte well adapted to oligohaline–mesohaline salinity levels. Results also revealed the invasive weed’s multiple strategies to survive salinity-induced physiological stress, supporting its survival even at elevated polyhaline to euhaline conditions. The macrophyte expressed functional trait responses spanning stress tolerance, avoidance, and escape strategies that may sustain its spread as estuarine salinity intrusion increases with sea level rise.
["Alligator weed"]
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Plant responses to water stress"]

Ponto-Caspian amphipods (Crustacea, Amphipoda) and their microsporidian parasites recently established in Sweden
The invasive amphipods Dikerogammarus villosus, D. haemobaphes and Pontogammarus robustoides, which originate from the Ponto-Caspian region, are amongst Europe’s most ecologically disruptive amphipods and have recently been detected in Sweden, marking their northernmost record and indicating a concerning expansion of their range. This study employed DNA barcoding to confirm the species identifications, assess population structure and trace the origins of these recently introduced populations. To improve the detection resolution in the case of D. villosus, we designed specific primers targeting two additional mitochondrial markers at genes ND5 and ATP8, enabling precise identification of the probable source populations, based on known European invasion routes and their phylogeographic structure. Our analysis identified the Western Group of D. villosus as being present in Sweden, with a probable introduction from the large lakes in the foothills of the Alps, possibly via sailing boats that were transported overland. Meanwhile, P. robustoides and D. haemobaphes appear to have invaded from the eastern and southern Baltic regions — including the Baltic States, Vistula Lagoon and Szczecin Lagoon — possibly via ballast water, ship hulls or floating debris. Additionally, we detected microsporidian infections in all three species, identifying Dictyocoela muelleri and D. berillonum as associated parasites. Given the ecological risks posed by these invasive species, coordinated monitoring, particularly along the Baltic coast, is essential for enabling rapid response efforts in the Nordic region.
["Dikerogammarus haemobaphes"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Myxozoan Parasites in Aquatic Species"]

Negative impact of the invasive topmouth gudgeon (Pseudorasbora parva) on population growth of a native fish species, the sunbleak (Leucaspius delineatus)
Biotic interactions of invasive and native species are one of the main drivers of declining freshwater biodiversity. The recent population declines of sunbleak (Leucaspius delineatus) in its native range have been attributed to the spread of the rosette agent (Sphaerothecum destruens) carried by the invasive topmouth gudgeon (Pseudorasbora parva). However, both fish species highly overlap in their habitat preferences and omnivorous feeding strategy and their interspecific interactions may have contributed to the decline of sunbleak populations. To test this hypothesis, we carried out two experiments in small (0.8 m3 water volume) and large (8 m3 water volume) outdoor mesocosms and followed their population and individual responses over one growing season in single-species and syntopy treatments. In each experiment, both species reached similar final abundance, final biomass and biomass-based population growth rate in the single-species treatment. However, the final biomass and biomass-based population growth rate of sunbleak were much lower than those of topmouth gudgeon in the syntopy treatment in both experiments. That is, the biomass-based population growth rate of topmouth gudgeon was not affected by interspecific interactions, while that of sunbleak significantly declined. These disparate population-level responses of both species to syntopy were not reflected in the individual-level responses. At the end of each experiment, topmouth gudgeon individuals were heavier than sunbleak individuals of the same size and individuals in the large mesocosms were heavier than conspecific individuals of the same size in the small mesocosms, but we found no difference between the single-species and syntopy treatments. Taken together, these results suggest that the presence of topmouth gudgeon in the small waterbodies can significantly impact sunbleak populations. More broadly, it underscores the need to mitigate invasive species’ effects on native fish through proactive conservation and management strategies. Graphical abstract
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Eutrophication boosts the competitive advantage of invasive gibel carp over endangered crucian carp
Anthropogenic eutrophication poses a significant threat to freshwater environments globally. It also influences the population dynamics of invasive and native species, yet the cumulative effects of eutrophication and invasive species on native organisms are not well understood. We used invasive gibel carp (Carassius gibelio Bloch, 1782) and native crucian carp (Carassius carassius Linnaeus, 1758) as model taxa to investigate how eutrophication influences their interspecific competition. Carassius carassius is being outcompeted by invasive C. gibelio across most of its native range, and eutrophication may play a role in the competitive displacement of C. carassius. We explored how varying eutrophication levels influence growth and survival of both species in laboratory and mesocosm experiments, where we exposed them to different feeding rations and nutrient levels, respectively. We hypothesized that (1) C. gibelio benefits more from increased nutrient levels than C. carassius—which favors invasive C. gibelio over native C. carassius in interspecific competition—and that (2) the growth and survival of C. carassius deteriorate under interspecific competition with C. gibelio compared to intraspecific competition. Our experiments revealed that excess nutrient availability was more beneficial to the invasive C. gibelio. Overall, C. gibelio individuals grew more than C. carassius, and the difference between the two species increased with nutrient levels in both experiments, especially in the weight of smaller individuals. Moreover, interspecific competition led to lower survival in C. carassius but not in C. gibelio in the mesocosm experiment. This study shows that eutrophication may modulate interspecific competition, and cultural eutrophication of freshwater habitats may enhance the success of invasive species. Graphical abstract
["Biodiversity loss"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Aquaculture Nutrition and Growth"]

Native and invasive raccoon populations host distinct microbiomes that may facilitate invasion
While microbiome associations are known to impact species survival, the extent to which microbiome variation aids in invasion dynamics is largely unknown. Here, we studied the microbiome diversity and composition of native and invasive raccoon populations to assess the microbiome’s role in invasion success. We found that native and invasive populations possess highly distinct microbiomes, with the invasive populations displaying greater gut and oral microbiota diversity without signs of instability or functional decline. Significant differences were found between the microbiota of each pair of invasive populations. The core microbiome of introduced populations consisted of a higher number of taxa than that found in native populations, suggesting a lack of microbiome deterioration in invasive populations. However, this may also reflect insufficient time for the establishment of a stable microbiome. Nevertheless, we found no evidence of reduced diversity of the microbiota linked to the population bottleneck or of increased microbiome dispersion indicating lower community stability. Native populations exhibited no microbiome differentiation between distant locations and showed lower, but still reasonably high, alpha diversity, suggesting the stability of the microbiome. Our findings imply that the invasion process changed the microbiota composition while preserving functional capability across different populations. This study highlights the microbiome as a potential factor aiding the adaptation of invasive populations.
["Invasion"]
["Gut microbiota and health", "Probiotics and Fermented Foods"]

Acacia invasion triggers cascading effects above- and belowground in fragmented forests
Invasive alien plants like Acacia species are key drivers of ecosystem change, with considerable effects on forest structure, nutrient cycling, and biodiversity. In the Mediterranean region, which is already vulnerable to challenges such as anthropogenic forest fragmentation, Acacia species have become dominant invasive plants at the landscape scale. In this study, we explored the effects of Acacia dealbata Link, and Acacia melanoxylon R. Br. to a lower extent, in a fragmented forest landscape in Central Portugal. We hypothesised that Acacia invasion would alter vegetation structure, litter, soil, and springtail communities, with cascading effects on ecosystem dynamics. We established 25 sampling points within a 25 km2 grid to collect data on Acacia invasion status, vegetation structure (cover of different plant layers and species richness), litter and soil quality (litter C/N ratio and soil organic carbon), and springtail communities (abundances of epigeic, hemiedaphic, and euedaphic springtails). We considered an Acacia invasion gradient as a continuous variable calculated with the sum of the covers of A. dealbata and A. melanoxylon divided by the total tree cover to study the combined effect of the two species. High levels of Acacia invasion were associated with reduced herb cover and plant species richness. Moreover, as Acacia invasion intensified, there was a significant decrease in the litter C/N ratio, and an increase in soil organic carbon. Subsequently, these Acacia-induced impacts triggered cascading effects on the relationships between shrub cover, litter and soil quality, and springtail functional structure. These findings showed that even low levels of Acacia invasion altered above- and belowground dynamics, thereby highlighting the cascading impacts of these invasive alien plant species on ecosystem functioning. Prioritizing early intervention in areas with smaller infestations (i.e., especially in fragmented landscapes like those in Central Portugal) can help prevent further spread and impacts of both A. dealbata and A. melanoxylon.
["Acacia dealbata"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Conservation, Biodiversity, and Resource Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Competitive superiority of non-native invaders becomes weaker when plant diversity increases – a case study with Solidago species
Two popular hypotheses in invasion biology are the “inherent superiority hypothesis”, stating that non-native species generally perform better than native species, and the “biotic resistance hypothesis”, stating that at local scale invasibility decreases with resident species richness. To test if plant community diversity reduces the performance of invasive non-native species more strongly than that of native ones, individuals of three Solidago species, S. virgaurea (native), S. canadensis (non-native, frequent in the local flora) and S. gigantea (non-native, non-frequent in the local flora), were planted into 80 experimental grassland communities varying in plant species richness (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 60 species) and functional group number (1 to 4 functional groups) (Jena Experiment, Germany). Survival was monitored and growth-related traits were studied as performance measures over two growing seasons. Both non-native invasive Solidago species grew faster than the native one. At low species richness, the non-native invasive S. canadensis and S. gigantea produced more biomass and had taller shoots with more leaves than the native S. virgaurea. This was presumably due to their better capability to take advantage of unused resources, supporting the inherent superiority hypothesis. With increasing sown plant species richness associated with a denser and taller canopy of the grasslands, survival and individual plant performance decreased in all three Solidago species, which is in line with the biotic resistance hypothesis. The decline in growth performance with increasing species richness was particularly pronounced in the non-native S. canadensis and S. gigantea so that their inherent superiority was more weakened compared to the native S. virgaurea with increasing plant diversity. These results emphasize the important role of native plant diversity for invasion resistance at local scale.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Enteroparasitic fauna of non-native Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) on the Chilean coast: host-parasite networks and the potential for spillback
Invasive species can disrupt disease dynamics in new areas. Upon introduction, an invasive species in its new range may be colonised by novel parasites that normally infect native fauna. If the infected invasive host then helps to spread and boost the parasites to native hosts, this is known as spillback. Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) were released into rivers in southern Chile around 1924 and became invasive from 39°S to 53°S. Its anadromous migration and predatory behaviour involve multiple interactions with various native species. We examined the digestive tracts from 114 adult Chinook salmon returning from the sea to the estuary in the Toltén River, Chile to characterise their enteroparasite diversity, classify parasite developmental stages and assess Chinook’s potential as a definitive host for local, native parasites. We enumerated 12,277 larvae of parasitic individuals belonging to the genera Anisakis and Hysterothylacium (Nematoda), Nybelinia (Cestoda) and orders Pseudophyllidea, Tetraphyllidea and Trypanorhyncha (Cestoda). Amongst these, we also found adults — one immature female, four gravid females and eight males of the nematode Hysterothylacium sp., six adults of the trematodes Lecithaster sp. and one Lampritrema sp. Finding advanced and adult stages suggests chinook are a competent non-native host for Hysterothylacium, Lecithaster and Lampritrema, as well as a non-native host for larval stages of Nybelinia sp., Pseudophyllidea and Tetraphyllidea. Our study demonstrates the integration of native parasites into an invasive host along the coast of Chile. Namely, Chinook salmon are now acting as a novel host that is positioned as a new node in trophic interactions and host-parasite networks. Additionally, our study provides valuable baseline data for further research on the impact of these parasites on native species and ecosystem dynamics, including the extent to which spillback is occurring.
["Chinook salmon"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Claw loss and the prey preferences of an invasive crayfish
Predator-prey relationships underpin the stability of ecosystems but can be perturbed by numerous factors, such as biological invasions. Crayfish readily colonize new ecosystems and their impacts can modify food webs or ecosystem functioning. However, while crayfish exert high levels of predation pressure handling prey with their claws, claw loss is also common in their populations, which could mediate prey selection pressures. Here, we investigate how the number of claws in the marbled crayfish Procambarus virginalis modulates its preferences for two different available prey: Chironomus plumosus and Gammarus fossarum. We showed that the food preference of P. virginalis was mainly for soft, less mobile prey, such as C. plumosus, with significantly fewer G. fossarum (harder, more mobile prey) being killed. This preference was largely independent of claw presence but depended on the availability of prey, with fewer G. fossarum being targeted as the number of claws decreased. Our results highlight the complexity of predator-prey ecological relationships in invaded freshwater ecosystems and show that some biotic factors, such as the quantity and type of prey available, need to be taken into account in order to better understand their role in ecosystem dynamics.
["Chironomus plumosus"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Invasive mosquitofish impact a threatened toothcarp through water quality impairment and resource competition
Invasive non-native species are an important cause of biodiversity loss, particularly in fresh waters. The mosquitofish Gambusia holbrooki are among the world’s worst invasive species: they have caused extirpations of native species and are known to sometimes cause trophic cascades and ecosystem effects. This invasive species is also known to impact threatened fishes such as the Spanish toothcarp (Aphanius iberus), which is endemic to Mediterranean Spain. However, it is unclear if the impact of mosquitofish on many fishes is more through resource competition, agonistic interactions or predation, and how often mosquitofish cause trophic cascades. To clarify these questions, we performed a 48-day mesocosm experiment in eutrophic conditions to test for interspecific effects and clarify the impact mechanism using six treatments: the two fish species alone each at two densities, and the two fish species mixed or separated with a net that prevented direct interactions among them. We observed clear fish treatment effects on several variables. At low initial fish densities, the population growth rate of mosquitofish was orders of magnitude greater than that of the Spanish toothcarp, likely contributing to its invasive success and ecological impact. At high fish densities, turbidity, chlorophyll a concentration and daytime dissolved oxygen percentage increased, whereas total phosphorus decreased; crucially, the trophic cascade caused by mosquitofish was stronger than that by toothcarp. The experiment also demonstrated that the interspecific effects of mosquitofish on toothcarp were more important than those of intraspecific competition. The invasive species produced effects on population growth rate, size structure, and fish condition (mass-length relationship) of toothcarp. Effects on population growth rate of toothcarp seem more caused by resource competition, whereas impacts on size structure and condition seem also caused by more direct interactions. The diversity of effects of mosquitofish underscores the difficulty of predicting the impact of invasive species. Our study further provides an approach to differentiate the effects of resource competition from other more direct ecological interactions and so to clarify the impact mechanism of aquatic invasive species.
["Interference competition"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Prepare for trouble and make it double: Effects of Carpobrotus acinaciformis and Apis mellifera invasion in floral visitor networks
Invasive species pose a significant threat to ecological systems, impacting biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Invasive plants and bees can alter mutualistic networks by increasing nestedness and reducing modularity, as a consequence leading to a reduction in network biodiversity and specialization. In this study, we investigated the ecological consequences of invasion by the non-native plant Carpobrotus acinaciformis and the non-native bee Apis mellifera, as well as the effects of controlling the invasive plant species on bee-plant interaction networks in coastal ecosystems. Our hypothesis is that C. acinaciformis, a melitophilous invasive plant, and A. mellifera, a generalist forager, both influence interaction networks, and that their control can alter network structure. Fieldwork was carried out in the Dunas da Lagoa da Conceição Natural Municipal Park, in southern Brazil, with active searches and collection of bees and flowering plants in areas invaded and uninvaded by C. acinaciformis in year 1 of the study. Collection procedures were repeated in uninvaded and managed areas after C. acinaciformis was subjected to mechanical control in year 2. We compared interaction network metrics between invaded and uninvaded areas in year 1 and between managed and uninvaded areas in year 2 using null models. We also simulated the elimination of A. mellifera from all networks (invaded, uninvaded, and managed) as a first step to understanding the effects of invasive honey bees. This simulation suggests that A. mellifera invasion increases nestedness and reduces modularity of the interaction networks. The elimination of the invasive plant and the simulated removal of the invasive bee led to changes in network dynamics, suggesting potential shifts that increased the stability and specialization of interaction networks. Our findings contribute to the understanding of the intrinsic interactions between invasive species such as C. acinaciformis and A. mellifera and native bee-plant networks. We emphasize the need for long-term studies using multiple methodologies, including field experiments and simulations, to generate comprehensive assessments for building knowledge on biological invasions and management. This enables adaptive and effective management strategies to mitigate the impacts of invasive species on ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity conservation.
["Bee-plant interaction"]

Insights from paedomorphic newts in introduced populations
Facultative paedomorphosis is a widespread polyphenism in newts and salamanders, but it is declining due to the introduction of non-native species. Conversely, caudates have often been introduced outside their range and could be good models to improve our understanding of the factors that facilitate the expression of metamorphosis versus paedomorphosis. In particular, the alpine newt is a common amphibian species that has been introduced into many countries and whose many native paedomorphic populations have become extinct. By surveying ponds where metamorphic alpine newts were introduced in France over eight years, this study aimed to show what we can learn from such introduced populations by highlighting key life history traits of both phenotypes and a co-existing native species, the palmate newt, that can also express paedomorphosis. Although paedomorphosis is rare outside of the main European hotspots, paedomorphs were repeatedly found in the introduced population, including in a pond where they were dispersing. Interestingly, the relative frequencies of paedomorphs in the adult population of both species were low and match those of the paedomorphs of the native palmate newts over the years. This resulted in a complex size-structured newt community. Taken together, these results allow the discussion of alternative scenarios for the origin of aliens and possible reasons for the presence of paedomorphs in such populations. Ultimately, they call for reporting such developmental variants in the introduced populations of newts and salamanders and tracing the origin of the introductions to infer on genetic and environmental causes.
["Alpine newt"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Could alien Impatiens capensis invade habitats of native I. noli-tangere in Europe? – Contrasting effects of microhabitat conditions on species growth and reproduction
Recent declines in the population size and habitat of the native European Impatiens noli-tangere have led to its observed disappearance. The spread of the North American I. capensis in Europe presents a potential additional threat. However, comparative studies on natural populations of the two species are still lacking. Our research aimed to elucidate the determinants of potential habitat segregation between the two Impatiens species in the natural environment and to identify key factors influencing variations in their growth and reproduction traits. Fine spatial scale studies allowed for a detailed description of microhabitat conditions and demonstrated the high explanatory power of our multidimensional models. The two species have overlapping environmental distributions, but the range of habitats supporting I. noli-tangere is narrower than that of I. capensis. The contrasting patterns in species traits result from different responses of each Impatiens species to environmental factors. A comparison of RDA results showed the environmental factors to explain 86.4% of the trait variability in I. noli-tangere, the soil Pb content (56%) and habitat fertility (21%) being most influential, followed by shading and the soil pH and Ca content. In I. capensis, environmental variables accounted for 70.7% of the variability, with shading being the most significant (29%), followed by anthropogenic pressure, aphid presence, soil pH, and moisture content. Our findings suggest no strong habitat barriers preventing I. capensis from entering habitats occupied by I. noli-tangere. While I. capensis invasion in Poland is still in the early stages and no co-occurrence of both species has been reported in European forests, I. capensis may eventually colonize forest habitats, given its preference for understory conditions in its native range. The higher sensitivity of I. noli-tangere to environmental changes and its weaker performance raise concerns about its ability to persist if I. capensis continues to spread.
["Ecological niche"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Effect of the tapeworm Ligula pavlovskii on the life-history of the alien monkey goby (Neogobius fluviatilis)
The life-history traits of fish are influenced by numerous factors, including parasitic infections. Parasites can significantly impact host mortality, growth performance, and reproductive success. This study examines the effects of the parasite Ligula pavlovskii (Diphyllobothriidae) on its host, the monkey goby (Neogobius fluviatilis), in Lake Balaton, Hungary. Both species originated in the Ponto-Caspian region, with the fish arriving in the 1970s and the parasite following in the 2000s. Our research reveals substantial impacts of L. pavlovskii on the life history of the monkey goby, including differences in somatic (condition, length) and reproductive (gonadosomatic index, fecundity, egg size) investments between infected and non-infected individuals. Condition declined with higher parasite index in infected individuals. Female GSI was influenced by both parasite presence and severity of the infection, whereas male GSI was affected by the presence of the parasite. Additionally, the length frequency distributions of infected and non-infected fish showed seasonal differences, due to the bigger body size of infected individuals in summer and autumn. The high prevalence of the parasite and associated mortality resulted in a significantly reduced expected lifespan for infected fish. Our findings suggest that the competitive advantage of N. fluviatilis may be reduced when this fish is infected by L. pavlovskii. This should be considered when developing management interventions for this species.
["Condition"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations"]

On the path to cosmopolitanism: the continuing geographic expansion of Caprella mutica (Crustacea, Amphipoda)
Human activities have been transporting caprellid amphipods (or “skeleton shrimps”) across the oceans for many decades. As a result, some caprellid amphipods now are among the most widespread non-indigenous species in many different coastal regions of the world. The global spread of these species is still ongoing in some cases, such as that of the successful invader Caprella mutica Schurin, 1935. Here, we report on the arrival of C. mutica in South America and modelled its environmental niche based on its current global distribution in order to evaluate future expansion risks. The species distribution model confirmed high occupancy probabilities for already invaded areas of Europe and North America with generally lower probabilities in the southern hemisphere and mean sea surface temperature as best predictor. Further, the model suggested that our discovery of C. mutica in northern Chile was made in a region that is less favorable for this species, while occupancy probabilities increased further south. Given the invasion history of C. mutica in other marine regions of the world and the more favorable oceanographic conditions, a further spread of this invader southwards along the South American Pacific coast seems very likely.
["Biofouling"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Increasing breeding host range and fast spread across Uruguay reveals the invasion potential of Euwallacea fornicatus (Coleoptera, Scolytinae) in South America
The invasive ambrosia beetle Euwallacea fornicatus (Eichhoff, 1868) poses a significant threat to forests sensu latu in South America. Uruguay marked the third regional record since 2022, following infestations in Brazil and Argentina. The pest’s distribution now spans ~ 3,500 km of coastline, highlighting its adaptability to diverse climates and the vulnerability of urban ecosystems. Currently, two infestations started in Uruguay in two foci distant 500 km of each other: Rivera, a northern city bordering with Brazil and an established beetle population in Montevideo, the capital and a port city in the southern region of the country. The infestation in Montevideo initially mirrors those in the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina, with low attack densities (< 30 attacks/tree) concentrated at lower trunk heights (< 4 m). The key host species include Acer negundo L., Casuarina cunninghamiana Miq. and Platanus × acerifolia (Aiton) Willd., indicating an affinity for common urban trees in the Southern Cone. This pest is known to attack 602 plant species. However, our host plant survey recorded fourteen new host plant species, with nine new breeding hosts. While tree mortality is not yet evident, gallery excavation and symbiotic fungal activity threaten tree health and tend to escalate management costs. Molecular analyses confirm the presence of a single haplotype within E. fornicatus species, which is phylogenetically close to Argentine, Brazilian, Chinese and European populations. The rapid spread across Uruguay along with the increasing number of hosts with breeding potential, both exotic and native in Argentina and Uruguay, highlights the significant invasion threat this species poses for South America. It is crucial to implement coordinated supranational management strategies without delay. Considering the size of the populations, they should include eradication efforts using mechanical and chemical means, followed by continuous monitoring to prevent re-emergence or re-introduction of propagules from neighbouring countries.
["Ambrosia beetle"]

Warming and latitude shape the non-consumptive effects of native and invasive alien crayfish predators on damselfly prey
There is increasing concern that the effects of biological invasions may be magnified by other human-induced global changes. Here, we compare the non-consumptive effects imposed by invasive vs. native predators and how these (differential) responses to both predator types depend on warming and prey latitude. We raised damselfly larvae from central- and high-latitudes in incubators under two temperatures (current [20 °C] and warming [24 °C]) and further exposed them to one of three predator cues: noble (native), signal (invasive at both latitudes) and spiny-cheek (invasive at central- but absent at high latitudes) crayfish. Growth rate increased in central-latitude but decreased in high-latitude prey in response to both noble and signal crayfish. The spiny-cheek crayfish only reduced growth rate in high-latitude prey. Cues from all three crayfish species generally caused a higher net energy budget, but only under warming. Our results demonstrated that high-latitude prey were able to recognize a novel invasive predator (spiny-cheek crayfish) cue, and revealed differential growth responses of central- and high-latitude prey toward the shared invasive predator (signal crayfish). Our data provide rare support for the concern that global change factors may magnify the impact of both native and novel invasive predators.
["Energy allocation"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Invasive signal crayfish and native noble crayfish show trophic niche shrinkage in sympatry
Studying the coexistence of native species and invasive species with similar functional traits, habitat usage, and feeding habits is crucial for understanding the dynamics of invasion and ecological changes in the invaded ecosystem. Due to competitive exclusion and often also dissemination of crayfish plague pathogen (Aphanomyces astaci, Schikora), North American crayfish represent a major threat to European native crayfish. Their co-occurrence is often only temporary, making studies investigating trophic ecology of native and non-native crayfish species rare. In this study, trophic niche and feeding ecology of European native noble crayfish Astacus astacus (Linnaeus, 1758) and North American signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus (Dana, 1852) were compared between their sympatric and allopatric sites, in Křesánovský brook (Czech Republic), using carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes analysis. The results indicated a substantial change of trophic niche and diet of noble crayfish between allopatry and sympatry. In allopatry, both juvenile and adult noble crayfish exhibited a wider trophic niche width compared to juvenile and adult signal crayfish. However, in sympatry, where adult and juvenile noble crayfish coexisted with signal crayfish, their trophic niche width significantly narrowed and their diet shifted towards a more plant-based one. High degree of trophic niche overlap was observed between adults and juveniles in both species, particularly in sympatry rather than in allopatry. The substantial trophic niche overlap and dietary similarity between native noble crayfish and invasive signal crayfish in sympatry, make their long term coexistence on the invaded site unlikely.
["Allopatry"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

The invasive mysid Hemimysis anomala: an up-to-date review of its biology, ecology, distribution and ecological impacts
The “bloody-red shrimp” species Hemimysis anomala, native to the Ponto-Caspian Region, has spread rapidly and adapted over recent decades to new aquatic ecosystems worldwide, causing many ecological alterations. The reported impacts associated with this invasion are numerous, including overall food web structure modifications. This review focuses on H. anomala, examining its biology, ecology, distribution and ecological impacts. The species’ rapid success is attributed to its high fecundity, fast growth rates and broad adaptability to various habitats. Recent observations suggest that its distribution may expand further, especially in Western European lakes, reservoirs and the Laurentian Great Lakes. We present insights into its habitat, seasonal dynamics and influence on trophic interactions within native zooplankton communities. Additionally, we discuss methods used to study H. anomala, including citizen-science initiatives that enhance data collection and community engagement. The objective of this research is to provide up-to-date pieces of information on H. anomala’s ecology, including new data on its habitat preferences collected through scientific diving and participatory research. By characterising the spatial and temporal variation in its occurrence and abundance, we identify key environmental and biotic factors that may limit or support its further spread. We also highlight knowledge gaps and research priorities for future studies to better assess its impacts on the food webs of invaded ecosystems.
["Bloody-red shrimp"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

The fellowship of the fig continues its journey: Fig wasps (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) associated with Ficus microcarpa in Greece
The number of alien species continues to climb uninterrupted with a proportion of them becoming invasive, impacting native biodiversity and socioeconomic parameters. Many alien species are plants, transported outside their native range, sometimes alongside their associated insects hitching a ride to new destinations. Ficus microcarpa L. (Moraceae) is a common ornamental plant in the Mediterranean, which has been found to host a large ecological network of associated chalcid wasps (also called fig wasps). Amongst them, the plant’s pollinator Eupristina verticillata Waterston (Agaonidae), enhances the plant’s successful pollination and subsequent germination, thus allowing it to establish viable populations and even become invasive in some parts of the world. Other associated wasps, also called non-pollinating fig wasps, have likewise followed and these are parasitoids, inquilines or gallers. These species can be either beneficial or injurious to F. microcarpa, with some even proposed as potential biological control agents mitigating the plant’s spread. Seven fig wasp species have been reported from Greece, hitherto. Here, we present the first national survey of fig wasp fauna for Greece. We found 13 species, with six representing new records for the country (Eufroggattisca okinavensis Ishii, Micranisa degastris Chen, Philotrypesis okinavensis Ishii, Philotrypesis taiwanensis Chen, Odontofroggatia quinifuniculus Feng & Huang, Sycophila curta Chen) and two (O. quinifuniculus, S. curta) being reported outside their native range for the first time. Philotrypesis emeryi is removed from previous checklists upon molecular characterization of specimens as being Philotrypesis okinavensis. We discuss the distribution, introduction period and ecology of these fig wasps. Further, we present records of seedlings for F. microcarpa and discuss the potential implications of the fig wasp fauna for the establishment and control of this alien plant species.
["Plant and animal studies", "Phytochemistry and biological activities of Ficus species", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Intra- and interspecific pollen morphology variation of invasive Reynoutria taxa (Polygonaceae) in their response to different habitat conditions
Although understanding the relationship between the reproductive mode and mass-dispersal potential of plants is crucial for studying invasion phenomena, the morphological features of invasive species’ pollen are not well understood. This study examined the pollen morphology and variability of three Reynoutria (knotweed) taxa (R. japonica, R. sachalinensis, R. × bohemica) invasive in Europe, and their reaction to different habitat conditions within seven distinguished habitat types. The pollen was sourced from 95 sites from the taxa’s invasive range in Central Europe. In total, 2850 pollen grains were measured and analysed for 11 quantitative and qualitative features. The pollen of R. sachalinensis was distinguished from that of the other two taxa (reticulate perforate) based on its rugulate and fossulate perforate exine ornamentation. The pollen’s response to various habitat conditions, which was most marked in R. × bohemica, was reflected by pollen size and exine thickness. Our research indicates that pollen availability is not a limiting factor for the sexual reproduction of knotweeds in Central Europe, including Reynoutria japonica, long considered male sterile. The observed presence of male-fertile specimens of R. japonica may enhance the efficiency of generative reproduction in this species throughout its invaded ranges. This finding should be considered when planning actions to control the population of these transformer plant species.
["Fallopia"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Mangrove-associated Pacific oysters (Magallana gigas) influence estuarine biodiversity
Estuarine ecosystems are often characterised by endemic foundation organisms which facilitate ecosystem interactions and processes established over millennia. Introduction of non-native foundation species can significantly alter ecological communities and functions. Here, we assessed the effects of introduced, reef-forming Pacific oyster Magallana gigas, within a temperate Australian mangrove-dominated estuary. Specifically, we investigated whether mangrove-attached M. gigas oyster reefs influenced intertidal fish and invertebrate communities, and fish foraging behaviour. We measured and contrasted the benthic structure and faunal communities of fringing bare sediment, Avicennia marina mangrove and Pacific oyster M. gigas reef habitats using a combination of quadrats, fyke nets and remote unbaited video (RUV) surveys. Pacific oyster reefs showed no impacts on pneumatophore density or morphology, but were positively associated with higher seedling densities. Furthermore, invertebrate and fish community metrics (e.g. richness, biomass, length) were typically higher in M. gigas reefs compared to the other habitats. However, several mobile, non-native species were predominantly detected in M. gigas reefs, including exotic gobies and European shore crabs Carcinus maenas, a declared marine pest. Overall, we found that M. gigas reefs in fringing mangrove forests were associated with biodiverse faunal communities, including fisheries-targeted species, but also facilitated other non-native species. These outcomes highlight some of the ecological pros and cons of non-native oyster reefs and the complexity of managing estuaries globally where Pacific oysters increasingly co-occur with endemic habitat-forming species.
["Biogenic"]
["Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Aquaculture Nutrition and Growth"]

Food fight: Gammarus tigrinus demonstrate competitive advantage over native G. duebeni
Introductions of non-native species (NNS) are major drivers of biodiversity loss. Gammarids (Crustacea, Gammaroidea) have been particularly successful in establishing and spreading in their non-native range, especially in Europe. While their impacts are wide-ranging, interference competition with native species has received limited study to date. Here, we assessed the competitive abilities of the successful North American NNS Gammarus tigrinus relative to the European native Gammarus duebeni, over a chironomid larva as a single food resource. We staged four types of dyadic contest encounters, with individuals of the native or NNS added to the experimental arena containing the food resource, and inter- or intraspecific competitor individuals added upon the first individual taking possession of the resource, or after 20 minutes. Gammarus tigrinus were more likely to take hold of the bloodworm in the opening 20 minutes, and did so more quickly than G. duebeni. During this period, they were also less thigmotactic than the native, being more explorative and spending a smaller proportion of time in the outer zone of the arena. They exhibited more aggressive interactions and activity with increasing size and mass, whereas larger G. duebeni were shown to be less aggressive and less active. Gammarus tigrinus were found to be significantly less likely to lose possession to G. duebeni than they were to conspecifics, whereas G. duebeni were similarly likely to lose possession to G. tigrinus as to conspecifics. Overall, our findings indicate that the behaviour and competitive ability of G. tigrinus demonstrated here add to a list of traits that facilitate its invasion success. In addition, our method offers potential as an effective, standardisable means of assessing the competitive abilities of gammarid NNS. We encourage future studies to develop it further, incorporating alternative resources, such as habitat, and to assess the role of ecologically relevant abiotic stressors in determining contest outcomes.
["Animal behaviour"]
["Physiological and biochemical adaptations", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Non-consumptive effects of native, alien and invasive alien crayfish on damselfly egg life history and carry-over effects on larval physiology
Invasive alien (IA) predators pose significant threats to native ecosystems, often leading to profound impacts on prey species through both direct and non-consumptive effects (NCE). This study focused on the NCE of predator-induced stress from one native crayfish species, noble (Astacus astacus), compared to one alien danube crayfish (Pontastacus leptodactylus) and two IA crayfish species, signal (Pacifastacus leniusculus) and spinycheek crayfish (Faxonius limosus), on the native damselfly Ischnura elegans. We investigated the direct crayfish cue effect on egg traits as well as potential carry-over effects from the egg stage to the larval stage. We hypothesised that native crayfish cues would lead to more pronounced negative effects on prey traits compared to alien and IA crayfish, due to an evolutionary history of interaction and recognition of these threats. Unexpectedly, compared to native crayfish cues, alien and IA crayfish cues caused significantly higher egg mortality and prolonged developmental times, particularly cues from danube and signal crayfish, while cues from spinycheek crayfish had weaker, yet, still significant effects. Hatching synchrony was reduced and this to the same extent by the cues of all four crayfish species. Notably, cues from both alien and IA crayfish species caused significant carry-over effects, resulting in reduced larval survival, mass and fat content, which were more pronounced for danube and signal crayfish. Native crayfish cues did not induce carry-over effects, suggesting that I. elegans may have evolved a degree of resilience against this predator or that native crayfish produce chemical cues that do not cause a strong antipredator response. Our findings underscore the importance of considering immediate and carry over effects of crayfish on prey traits across multiple life stages, particularly in the context of biological invasions.
["Carry-over effect"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Aquaculture Nutrition and Growth", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Seeds and vegetative propagules of all selected invasive plants in Europe do not survive industrial composting
Plant material of invasive alien plant species (IAPS) must be appropriately disposed of to prevent unintended spread. The current guidelines in Slovenia and in several other European countries recommend composting only the parts of the plants from which they cannot sprout and reproduce. At the same time, the vegetative propagules and seeds should be incinerated. We tested whether the seeds and vegetative propagules (rhizomes, stolons, tubers, and branches) of 30 selected IAPS survive industrial composting, which is the method of processing collected organic waste and green cut from parks and gardens. Mature seeds and vegetative propagules were packed in metal boxes, which were filled with compost and included in the hygienisation phase of biowaste processing at the Regional Waste Management Centre, RCERO Ljubljana. After the industrial composting for 17 days, seed germination and viability tests were done and compared with a control group of seeds collected from the same plants but not undergoing the composting process. The composted and fresh vegetative propagules were planted in pots with soil, and the number of rooted parts was counted. None of the seeds and the vegetative propagules survived the industrial composting process, and we can conclude that it is safe to dispose of the IAPS like other organic waste or green cut.
["Brown waste"]
["Composting and Vermicomposting Techniques", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Weed Control and Herbicide Applications"]

Competitive interactions for food resources between invasive Ponto-Caspian gobies and their native competitors in the context of global warming
Climate warming can modify the process of biological invasions by affecting the outcomes of competition between alien species and their native counterparts in invaded environments. Inland freshwaters are particularly vulnerable to the intensification of such phenomena due to the accumulation of invaders, including thermophilic species that may benefit from warming. We intended to check whether an elevated summer temperature (25 vs. 17 °C) affects the abilities of the Ponto-Caspian gobies to compete for food. These fish are considered temperature-tolerant, highly invasive freshwater fish in Europe. In laboratory experiments, we tested single- and two-species pairs of juvenile specimens of two goby species and their native counterparts from the same ecological guild (the racer goby Babka gymnotrachelus versus European bullhead Cottus gobio, and monkey goby Neogobius fluviatilis versus native gudgeon Gobio gobio). The fish competed for food (live chironomidae larvae provided at rates below satiation) for 1 hour at night. We analysed behaviours associated with direct interactions (aggression acts) and foraging activity (time to enter the feeder and the time spent in the feeder). We found that although the gobies did not show higher aggression than the natives, they more actively accessed food compared to the latter, irrespective of temperature. Our results suggest that, in the wild, the invasive fish have a competitive advantage over the native ones due to better resource allocation (gaining food without incurring the costs of aggression) and will maintain this advantage as water warming continues.
["Aggressive behaviour"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A population dynamics approach to understand the invasiveness of the seaweed Rugulopteryx okamurae (Ochrophyta, Dictyotales)
The success of invasive species can be measured by invasiveness, which depicts intrinsic characteristics that enable them to thrive in new environments. In invasive seaweeds, for example, the persistence of multiple overlapping cohorts throughout the year plays a key role in increasing plant cover and exerting unrelenting pressure on invaded areas. The marine brown macroalgae Rugulopteryx okamurae has recently established abundant populations in the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, negatively affecting both biodiversity and socioeconomic factors by unprecedently aggressive invasive behaviour. The objective of the study is to understand the invasiveness of R. okamurae through its popu lation dynamics. For this, a year-round study was conducted in a protected habitat of Posidonia oceanica in southern Spain, revealing that R. okamurae uses alternating mechanisms for population maintenance. It achieves high density of young individuals in late summer and autumn, peaking at 3285 individuals per square metre. In spring and early summer, the population shifts towards fewer – but larger – individuals, with densities dropping to 888 individuals per square metre and biomass reaching a peak of 170 g dry weight (DW) per square metre. Six overlapping cohorts were identified by Gaussian curves. They persisted throughout the year, but they were not related to environmental factors, which indicates adaptive physiological mechanisms that sustain dense monospecific populations. Additionally, the association between cohorts and different morphotypes suggests that R. okamurae phenotypic plasticity enables its persistence in introduced areas. These findings provide valuable insights into the biological traits underpinning its invasiveness in P. oceanica meadows, revealing temporal windows of invasiveness driven by different mechanisms. This knowledge is crucial for developing effective conservation and management strategies aimed at mitigating the impact of this invasive species.
["Demography"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Long-term seed survival of common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) after burial
Ambrosia artemisiifolia is a serious threat to human health and agricultural yield. Due to its annual growth form management should focus on the prevention of seed production in the long run. The long-term survival of ragweed seeds depends on the implementation of viable seeds to the persistent soil seed bank. In a field study, we tried to find out how long this species must be surveyed/managed to reach the goal of complete eradication after burial of seeds into mineral soil. We tested for the influence of different seed sources (origin), different soil depths of burial, different experimental sites in Middle Europe (labs), and duration of burial on the viability of seeds by germination test plus TTC-test. In our study, seed origin had a highly significant influence on the seed survival. In all the 10 years of the experiment, seeds sampled from a rural stand in Austria showed significantly lower viability rates than seeds from Hungary. The Hungarian seeds from arable fields had viability rates of up to 90% even after 10 years’ burial. Burial depth (7 cm/25 cm) had no significant influence on the viability rates but we detected a serious influence of the experimental sites which can be caused either by the burial site conditions (differences in soil and climate) or by different implementation of the manuals for germination tests and colouration test using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride. The decline of viability within the 10-year period differed by seed origin, but was generally faster in the first few years but relatively low in the following years. Due to the fact that we found 30 to 90% viable seeds after 10 years burial there is substantial evidence that soil perturbation (digging animals, ploughing) should be avoided for even more than ten years in habitats that are highly infested with ragweed.
["Control measures"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Invaders break assembly rules to beat the natives: how cheatgrass cheats
Understanding how some introduced plants achieve invasive status while most simply become naturalized is a fundamental question in invasion ecology. Traditional approaches comparing native and introduced plants have linked ruderal traits such as annual life history, high fecundity, and rapid growth rates to invasiveness. However, they do not explain why other introduced species bearing similar traits fail to become invasive, possibly because generic comparisons ignore local processes that drive community assembly. Herein, we contrasted native and introduced annuals in the context of local successional processes to elucidate how introduced annual bromes like cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) overtake perennial grasslands in the intermountain western United States. We created disturbed plots and seeded them first with annuals representing natives, naturalized species, or invasive bromes. We then seeded plots with native perennial community dominants to examine how the different annuals influenced succession. Native annuals established transient populations that facilitated perennial establishment compared to unseeded controls, enabling the shift to perennial dominance. Naturalized annuals mirrored the natives, but invasive annuals maintained robust populations at high biomass that inhibited perennial establishment and impeded succession. Mechanistically, invasive annuals reduced soil moisture and elevated plant biomass, litter, and soil N. However, only litter abundance correlated with perennial seedling recruitment across treatments. Overall, litter showed a unimodal relationship wherein lower litter abundance associated with native and naturalized annuals appeared to facilitate perennial seedling establishment while higher litter levels generated by invasives appeared to suppress perennial establishment and inhibit succession. Additional experiments provided little support for the roles of pathogen spill-over or plant-soil feedbacks favoring the introduced bromes. The domination of perennial grasslands by annual bromes may be driven by litter buildup that allows these introduced plants to break local succession rules by acting as both early seral and climax species. Traits like litter accumulation may strongly influence invasion outcomes but are indistinguishable using trait comparisons lacking community context.
["Annual bromes"]
["Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Invasion and spread of the neotropical leafhopper Curtara insularis (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae) in Africa and North America and the role of high-altitude windborne migration in invasive insects
Invasive insects threaten ecosystem stability, public health, and food security. Documenting newly invasive species and understanding how they reach into new territories, establish populations, and interact with other species remain vitally important. Here, we report on the invasion of the South American leafhopper, Curtara insularis into Africa, where it has established populations in Ghana, encroaching inland at least 350 km off the coast. Importantly, 80% of the specimens collected were intercepted between 160 and 190 m above ground. Further, the fraction of this species among all insects collected was also higher at altitude, demonstrating its propensity to engage in high-altitude windborne dispersal. Its aerial densities at altitude translate into millions of migrants/km over a year, representing massive propagule pressure. Given the predominant south-westerly winds, these sightings suggest an introduction of C. insularis into at least one of the Gulf of Guinea ports. To assess the contribution of windborne dispersal to its spread in a new territory, we examine records of C. insularis range-expansion in the USA. Reported first in 2004 from central Florida, it reached north Florida (Panhandle) by 2008–2011 and subsequently spread across the southeastern and south-central US. Its expansion fits a “diffusion-like” process with 200—300 km long “annual displacement steps”—a pattern consistent with autonomous dispersal rather than vehicular transport. Most “steps” are consistent with common wind trajectories from the nearest documented population, assuming 2—8 hours of wind-assisted flight at altitude. Curtara insularis has been intercepted at US ports and on trucks. Thus, it uses multiple dispersal modalities, yet its rapid overland spread is better explained by its massive propagule pressure linked with its high-altitude windborne dispersal. We propose that high-altitude windborne dispersal is common yet under-appreciated in invasive insect species.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Evaluation of climate conditions and ecological traits that limit the distribution expansion of alien Lolium rigidum in Japan
Invasive alien plants cause severe global problems; therefore, determining the factors that lead to the success or failure of invasion is a critical question in the field of invasion ecology. In this study, we aimed to determine the factors underlying differences in the distribution range of alien plants in Japan by investigating why Lolium multiflorum thrives in a wide range of habitats while L. rigidum is mainly distributed on sandy beaches. We initially evaluated environmental niche suitability through species distribution modelling and subsequently examined whether species traits influence the differences in range expansion between the two species. We used MaxEnt modelling to identify potential environmental niches for both species. The analysis revealed that L. rigidum was considerably less suited to the Japanese climate compared to L. multiflorum, with high summer precipitation in Japan identified as one of the climatic factors limiting the distribution of L. rigidum. Given that these winter annual plants remain dormant as seeds during summer, in subsequent experiments, we buried seeds in paddy field soil and sandy beach sand during summer and evaluated their survival rate in autumn. The survival rate of L. rigidum seeds was significantly lower than that of L. multiflorum, particularly in paddy soil. Factors contributing to seed mortality may include the decay or early germination of L. rigidum seeds under Japan’s high rainfall conditions. This study emphasises the importance of considering local environmental factors alongside climate niche modelling in the risk assessment of invasive species. Moreover, the integration of species distribution modelling for large-scale evaluations and manipulation experiments for fine-scale assessments proved effective in identifying climatic conditions and species traits influencing the success or failure of alien species invasion.
["Coastal environment"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Experimental evidence of negative agricultural impacts and effectiveness of mitigation strategies of invasive green iguanas (Iguana iguana) in Puerto Rico
Losses in crop yield due to invasive insects, weeds, pathogens, and herbivores cost trillions of dollars per year globally. To prevent further spread of invasive agricultural pest species, continuous monitoring and prevention are crucial. Once introduced, however, assessing the impact of an invasive pest on agricultural production and testing management strategies are essential. The green iguana (Iguana iguana), a globally widespread invasive herbivore, is considered a possible agricultural pest although no quantitative data on its impact are available. In this study, we evaluated the impact of the invasive green iguana on cucumber (Cucumis sativus, var. Dasher II) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa, var. Black-seeded Simpson) yield by testing the efficacy of two management strategies – Neem-based pesticide and mesh fencing – compared to open field cultivation in Puerto Rico. Mesh fencing led to 20% more growth and doubled cucumber yield compared to open field cultivation, while spraying Neem led to an 18% increase in plant growth but no effect on cucumber yield. We found no difference in lettuce growth or yield among treatment and control plots. This study supports categorizing the green iguana as an invasive agricultural pest species and demonstrates the reptile’s potential to reduce crop yield. It also shows that Neem application at the manufacturer’s suggested concentration is not an effective mitigation technique for reducing crop loss due to green iguana herbivory. Government agencies in regions where the green iguana has the potential to be introduced should consider the species a threat to food production when developing monitoring programs and drafting regulations.
["Agricultural loss"]
["Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Native and non-native unionids respond differently to the presence of fouling dreissenid mussels
Unionid mussels are globally threatened by several human disturbances, including the introduction of non-native species. Among these, biofouling zebra and quagga mussels of Ponto-Caspian origin are considered to be especially detrimental to unionid locomotion, filtration and physical condition. The aim of our study was to determine and compare the impact of dreissenid fouling and/or presence on locomotion and burrowing of the native Unio tumidus and invasive Sinanodonta woodiana, a novel invader expanding its range in Europe in recent decades. We tested unionids collected from Lake Balaton (central Europe) that were fouled by dreissenids (zebra and quagga mussels mixed), cleaned of fouling or non-fouled (collected without any signs of dreissenid fouling). Moreover, unionids were tested in the presence or absence of other fouled individuals and dreissenids isolated in mesh bags to determine the influence of direct fouling and presence of dreissenids in the environment on unionid behaviour. Movement initiation time, locomotion distance and burrowing level were retrieved from videos recorded for 24 hours. Direct fouling affected only the behaviour of U. tumidus, limiting their burrowing and delaying movements. After removal of fouling, movement timing returned back to normal, but mussels still burrowed less than the control non-fouled individuals, indicating persisting effects of fouling on physical condition. Moreover, U. tumidus reduced their locomotion in the presence of fouled unionids. Sinanodonta woodiana responded to the presence of dreissenids (especially quagga mussels) with increased burrowing. These different responses of the two unionid species to Dreissena spp. indicate that biofoulers may influence biotic interactions between the unionids by promoting the invasive species (less susceptible to negative effects of fouling). Moreover, S. woodiana may indirectly affect U. tumidus through apparent competition, constituting an environmental reservoir of biofoulers exerting a stronger impact on the native species.
["Biofouling"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Rising temperatures may increase fungal epizootics in northern populations of the invasive spongy moth in North America
Insect pest species are generally expected to become more destructive with climate change because of factors such as weakened host tree defences during droughts and increased voltinism under rising temperatures; however, responses will vary by species due to a variety of factors, including altered interactions with their natural enemies. Entomopathogens are a substantial source of mortality in insects, but the likelihood of epizootics can depend strongly on climatic conditions. Previous research indicates that rates of infection of the spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) by its host-specific fungal pathogen, Entomophaga maimaiga, increase with environmental moisture and decrease as temperatures rise. High temperatures may have direct and indirect (due to the associated drying) effects on the fungus, but the interactive effects between temperature and moisture level on larval infection are unclear. Here, we test the hypothesis that warmer, drier conditions will decrease rates of infection of spongy moth larvae by E. maimaiga. We evaluated the effects of precipitation and temperature on larval mortality caused by E. maimaiga with a manipulative field experiment, conducted in one of the northernmost and coldest parts of the spongy moth’s non-native range in North America. We caged laboratory-reared spongy moth larvae in experimentally warmed open-air forest plots, exposing the larvae to soil inoculated with E. maimaiga resting spores during two consecutive trials. Caged larvae were exposed to three temperature treatments — ambient, 1.7 °C above ambient and 3.4 °C above ambient — and either supplemental precipitation (+173 mm per trial) or ambient precipitation. Opposite to our hypothesis, there was no significant effect of supplemental precipitation, nor an interaction between precipitation and temperature. There was, however, a significant positive effect of increasing temperature on the number of larvae infected. On average, in each respective trial, larval infection increased by 44% and 50% under the elevated temperature treatments compared to ambient temperature. Experimental warming may have increased infections because ambient temperatures at the field site were suboptimal for fungal germination. The results from this experiment suggest that, in colder portions of the spongy moth’s invasive range, increasing temperatures due to climate change may enhance the ability of E. maimaiga to help control populations of the spongy moth.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Niche partitioning of invasive Amur sleeper (Perccottus glenii) amongst native fish communities in three different freshwater ecosystems
The invasive fish, Amur sleeper, poses a significant and growing threat to Central European freshwater ecosystems. Despite its rapid spread, the ecological implications of its invasion have been poorly explored. Recent findings confirm its presence in various Estonian freshwater systems, raising concerns about its imminent expansion into larger lakes. To better understand its potential ecological impacts, we explored the isotopic niche of the Amur sleeper in comparison with native fish species co-existing in three Estonian freshwater ecosystems. We employed carbon and nitrogen stable isotope analyses alongside gut content analyses. Our findings show that the Amur sleeper’s diet in newly-invaded Estonian water bodies predominantly comprises benthic macroinvertebrates, although it may also include fish, confirming its role as a predator in the local food web. Notably, Amur sleeper populations exhibited clear isotopic niche partitioning in three invaded ecosystems. A logistic regression model, based on stomach content analyses, revealed an ontogenetic diet shift from benthivorous to piscivorous feeding habits from small to large specimens. Amur sleeper exhibits voracious, non-selective feeding habits, which can negatively impact native freshwater communities. The ability to occupy a distinct isotopic niche, with minimal overlap with native fish populations, may reduce interspecific competition, facilitating the spread and establishment of Amur sleeper in newly-invaded habitats. Managing the spread of this invasive species thus becomes even more critical to safeguard the integrity of native aquatic ecosystems.
["gut content"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

No evidence for pronounced mate-finding Allee effects in the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire)
Allee effects are density-dependent barriers that can impact species establishment and population growth, such as through reduced mating success at low population densities. The emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, has been extremely successful at rapidly expanding its North American range. The impact of mate-finding Allee effects (an important type of component Allee effect) early in the invasion period of the emerald ash borer remains unknown. We measured mating success in females as a function of beetle abundance in Halifax, Canada, where the emerald ash borer was recently discovered, and in Connecticut USA, where it has been established for over a decade. We measured relative population abundance and sampled beetles using different strategies. In Halifax, we placed clusters of prism traps along an invasion gradient of emerald ash borer abundance, and in Connecticut, we collected beetles from foraging Cerceris fumipennis females. We dissected female reproductive tracts to measure mating success. We fit a linear regression to the mating success of females as a function of beetle abundance. We found that emerald ash borer did not present a pronounced mate-finding Allee effect as there was no positive relationship between female mating success and abundance. Lack of pronounced component Allee effects that impede population growth may explain rapid range expansion in species that are highly invasive, such as the emerald ash borer.
["Allee effects"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Uprooting is a promising tool to control invasive giant ragweed and recover native diversity
Ambrosia trifida (giant ragweed) is an invasive species that causes habitat destruction and competitively excludes native plants in many parts of Europe and Asia. In this study, we evaluated the effects of selective cutting and uprooting on A. trifida and native plant diversity, as well as the effects of sowing the seeds of native annual, perennial and woody species after eradication. We hypothesised that: (i) selective uprooting will be more effective than cutting in controlling invasion by A. trifida because fewer propagules would be left behind, with no increase in the number of existing invasive propagules and (ii) sowing native seeds will increase invasion resistance and accelerate the recovery of native plant diversity. The eradication methods were applied in July 2022, seeds were sown in March 2023 and the response variables (i.e. importance values (%) of A. trifida and diversity index (H') of native species) were measured in September 2023. The importance values of A. trifida were lowest and diversity index of native species was highest in the uprooting treatment, supporting the first hypothesis. Sowing native seeds following invasion removal did not exert significant additional suppressive effects on invasion or increase native species diversity. These results reveal that selective uprooting is a promising tool to control A. trifida and to support the recovery of native diversity, while sowing native seeds does not improve the quality of restoration.
["Ambrosia trifida"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Dead or alive: the effect of shells and living individuals of Sinanodonta woodiana (Lea, 1834) on habitat selection and behaviour of European unionid bivalves
1. Ecosystem engineering freshwater bivalves, burrowing in the substratum and accumulating shell deposits, transform bottom habitats. Especially the invasive Asian bivalve Sinanodonta woodiana (SW), due to its rapid growth, large size, and high fecundity, can affect benthic communities. Here, we determined its effect on habitat selection and behaviour of endangered native bivalves, Anodonta cygnea and Unio tumidus. 2. We conducted laboratory preference assays (Experiment 1: choice between two substrata) exposing the native bivalves to pure sand (control), shells (several densities on the sand surface or burrowed), or living SW. Then, we tested their locomotion and burrowing (Experiment 2) on pure sand and substrata contaminated with shells or living SW. 3. In Experiment 1, native bivalves avoided shells, but not living SW. Burrowed and larger shells were avoided compared with those on the surface and smaller ones, respectively. 4. In Experiment 2, U. tumidus exposed to SW delayed activity initiation (in response to living bivalves), increased locomotion (living bivalves, surface shells), and reduced burrowing depth (living bivalves, all shells). Anodonta cygnea exposed to SW reduced locomotion speed (living bivalves, shells), and reduced burrowing duration (burrowed shells) and depth (living bivalves, burrowed shells). 5. SW (especially shell beds) constitutes another emerging threat to native bivalves, impairing their burrowing and inducting active avoidance. As SW expands its distribution with climate warming, the range and strength of its impact is likely to increase, reducing the area available to native bivalves, exposing them to environmental dangers (due to burrowing limitation) and deteriorating physical condition (energetic resources used for excessive locomotion).
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Exploring the efficacy of predacious diving beetles as potential nature-based solution for combatting the invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894)
The invasive mosquito species Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) is rapidly spreading in Europe, posing an increasing threat because of its high vector competence for chikungunya and dengue virus. An integrative and eco-friendly control of these populations is required to prevent mosquito-borne disease outbreaks. Traditionally-used insecticides or other chemical control agents are often expensive, harmful to the environment, strictly controlled or completely banned in several countries. Additionally, insecticide resistance is a potential threat. One possibility for biological control agents is the use of native aquatic beetles as natural predators of mosquitoes to boost Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) interventions. Thirty predatory aquatic beetle taxa were caught in Belgium and kept at the Institute of Tropical Medicine’s insectary to test predation rate and prey choice on Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens Linnaeus, 1758. Predation rates suggest at least four efficient dytiscid predators that are known to inhabit small, temporary habitats in Europe. Further experiments on prey choice reveal a clear preference for Aedes albopictus over alternative larval prey (Culex pipiens, Daphnia sp., Chaoboridae). We found a strong ecological overlap of the feeding niche of A. albopictus and the hunting zone of dytiscid predators in the benthic layer of small waterbodies. Our findings on the efficacy are very encouraging to further assess the potential of native predacious diving beetles as a biological control agent against the invasive A. albopictus in Europe.
["Arbovirus"]
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

Evidence of short-term response of rocky cliffs vegetation after removal of invasive alien Carpobrotus spp.
Invasive alien plant species are among the major drivers of change in natural ecosystems; therefore, their eradication or control is a common and effective conservation tool to reverse biodiversity loss. The LIFE LETSGO GIGLIO project was implemented with the objective of controlling the invasion of Carpobrotus spp., among the most threatening invasive alien species in Mediterranean ecosystems, on the Island of Giglio (Tuscan Archipelago, Italy). The management of Carpobrotus spp. was conducted across an area of approximately 33,000 m2 of coastal habitats. The main intervention was conducted during the winter of 2021–2022, primarily through manual removal, with a limited use of mulching sheets. Subsequent years saw the continued removal of seedlings. We monitored the habitats of vegetated sea cliffs and coastal garrigues (both protected under Directive 92/43/EEC), as these were the two habitats most affected by the control actions. A total of 24 permanent plots were sampled annually from 2020 to 2023 in a Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) design. We analysed the variation pre- and post-removal of Carpobrotus spp. cover and litter and of native plant cover and diversity, as well as the changes in the composition of native plant communities. Our results show that already two years after the main intervention of removal, thus in the short term, the community’s composition shifted considerably towards the pre-invasion set of species. This recovery was also evident in terms of diversity indices, although the impact of Carpobrotus spp. on ecological parameters (mainly soil) favoured nitrophilous species. Furthermore, we highlight the need for yearly removal of Carpobrotus spp. seedlings for the next 5–10 years, in order to continue promoting the recovery of native communities.
["Ecological restoration"]
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Effects of earthworm invasion on soil properties and plant diversity after two years of field experiment
Although belowground invasive species are probably equally widespread and as important as their aboveground counterparts, they remain understudied, and their impacts are likely to be stronger when these invaders act as ecosystem engineers and differ functionally from native species. This is the case in regions historically devoid of native earthworms, such as parts of northern North America, which are now experiencing an invasion by European earthworms. Although invasive earthworms have been reported to have multiple consequences for native communities and ecosystem functioning, this knowledge is mostly based on observational studies, and the mechanisms underlying their cascading impacts need to be investigated. Here, we thus investigated the sequence of events, i.e., ecological cascades following earthworm invasion, that have rarely been studied before, in a two-year field experiment. We expected that the changes in soil abiotic properties observed following invasion would coincide with changes in plant community diversity and community trait composition, as well as in alterations in above- and belowground ecosystem functions. To test these hypotheses, we set up a field experiment that ran for two years in a forest in Alberta (Canada) to investigate soil properties and understory plant community composition in response to invasive earthworms. Our study shows that invasive European earthworms alter several soil abiotic properties (i.e., soil nutrient content, and pH) after two years of experiment. Invasive earthworm effects varied with soil depth for some soil properties (i.e., soil pH, water-stable aggregates, nitrogen, and microbial basal respiration), but we did not find any significant earthworm effect on soil water content, bulk density, or the total soil microbial biomass independently of the soil layer. Moreover, invasive earthworms did not affect plant community composition and only slightly affected community diversity in this short-term experiment. The minor changes observed in plant functional group composition are thus potentially the first signs of invasive-earthworm effects on plant communities. Our research provides experimental evidence that previously reported observational effects of invasive earthworms on soil properties are indeed causal and already significant after two years of invasion. These changes in soil properties are likely to have cascading effects on plant community composition, functional diversity, and ecosystem functioning, but such effects may take longer than two years to materialize.
["Biological invasion"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

Isotopic niches reveal the impact of topmouth gudgeon and gibel carp on native crucian carp
Invasive species pose a major threat to natural ecosystems and directly outcompete many native species, placing them at imminent threat of extinction. The topmouth gudgeon (Pseudorasbora parva) is on the EU’s blacklist of invasive freshwater species and threatens biodiversity, especially in wetland and floodplain ecosystems, aquacultures and village ponds. The crucian carp (Carassius carassius) is native to Europe and its populations have declined in large part of its native range, with invasive gibel carp (C. gibelio) suspected as a major cause of its decline. Invasions by topmouth gudgeon have been implicated in the decline of crucian carp populations but this still needs to be verified. The aim of this study was to evaluate by the experimental approach the competitive interaction between the two species, topmouth gudgeon and crucian carp, focusing on isotopic niche sizes and their overlap in syntopy. A four-month mesocosm experiment was performed to determine the isotopic niche of crucian carp and topmouth gudgeon living alone and in syntopy. Additionally, stable isotope data were collected at the sites where the two species co-occur to compare niche sizes and overlaps. Experimental data showed that the isotopic space of topmouth gudgeon responded more flexibly (reducing niche size at syntopy) than that of the crucian carp and confirmed a high isotopic niche overlap between the species. Field studies have shown that topmouth gudgeon has invaded the isotopic niche of the crucian carp, especially when another invasive species, the gibel carp, lived in the community (25% at 40% ellipse area and 50% at 95% ellipse area). When only the topmouth gudgeon and crucian carp were present in the field, the overlap was lower (3% and 48%, respectively) and directional overlap modelling showed that the crucian carp was more likely to invade the isotopic niche of topmouth gudgeon than vice versa. The data indicated that competition between crucian carp and topmouth gudgeon is likely, especially in syntopy with other invasive species. This study shows that the feeding plasticity of topmouth gudgeon likely facilitates its establishment outside its native range and, due to high isotopic niche overlap, threatens native fish with similar feeding ecology with competitive displacement.
["Biological invasions"]
["Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Functional responses correspond to stable isotope-based trophic positions among four invasive Ponto-Caspian mysid species (Crustacea, Mysida)
Determining the consumptive effects of non-native predators, for which several direct and indirect methods have been applied, is a common goal in invasion biology. Functional responses and stable isotope analysis are among the most widely used approaches; however, they are rarely used in combination. In this study, we used these two complementary methods to compare the predatory impacts of four invasive Ponto-Caspian mysids on zooplankton in a habitat (Danube River) where all four species coexist. The order of the species based on the attack rates of the functional response models matched with their mean δ15N values, indicating a correspondence between their predatory potentials and trophic positions in their invaded habitat. Hemimysis anomala had the highest attack rate on zooplankton presumably due to its higher degree of specialization linked to its pelagic lifestyle. Contrary to our expectations, the largest species, Paramysis lacustris, had an intermediate predatory efficiency and trophic position, similar to those of Limnomysis benedeni but higher than those of the smallest species, Katamysis warpachowskyi. Nevertheless, all of the four species exhibited a considerable predatory potential, suggesting that any of them can contribute significantly to their combined predatory impact depending on their densities. The congruence between the results of the two methods shows that the species can realize their different predatory potentials in their invaded environment, indicating favorable conditions (i.e., food availability and spatial heterogeneity) which allowed dietary differentiation. We recommend the combined use of functional responses and stable isotope analysis, which might allow robust conclusions to be drawn on the trophic ecology of the species and also provide further insights into the studied ecosystem.
["Hemimysis anomala"]
["Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Establishment potential across South Korea for two gecko species, Gekko japonicus and G. swinhonis, adapted to different climates
The introduction of exotic species and the associated impacts are increasing worldwide due to the development and increase in transportation and international trade. As new populations of the non-native Gekko japonicus and G. swinhonis have recently been discovered in South Korea, this study was conducted to investigate the distribution of these species, evaluate the establishment potential of non-native populations and infer their routes of introduction. The study comprised targeted field surveys around the major international ports, generation of ecological niche models (ENMs), based on the known distributions and comparison of the ecological niches of the two species. The results suggest that G. japonicus and G. swinhonis are primarily distributed in the humid subtropical climate (Cfa) and the monsoon-influenced hot-summer humid continental climate (Dwa), respectively. According to the ENMs predicted across South Korea, suitable habitats for G. japonicus were located along the western and southern coasts of the country, whereas those for G. swinhonis were predicted along the western coastal regions and several major cities inland. These distributional patterns may be attributed to adaptations of the two gecko congeners to distinct climatic conditions leading to divergent ecological niches. Considering the known distributions of the two species in South Korea, the most likely routes of introduction are accidental translocations through international trade and the inland populations most likely originated from human-mediated dispersals along the major rivers. This study highlights the need to implement quarantine procedures for international cargo arriving in South Korea. Additional field surveys are further recommended to focus on urban areas adjacent to international ports and major rivers to curtail further introductions of non-native geckos.
["Ecological niche models"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Lionfish (Pterois miles) in the Mediterranean Sea: a review of the available knowledge with an update on the invasion front
Invasive species often severely impact ecosystems and human activities in the areas that they invade. The lionfishes Pterois miles and P. volitans are regarded as the most successful invasive fishes in marine ecosystems. In the last 40 years, these Indo-Pacific predators have established in the tropical western Atlantic Ocean, with well-documented detrimental effects on the local fish communities. Around 10 years ago, a second invasion began in the Mediterranean Sea, which is being colonised by P. miles. Given the invasive potential of P. miles and the fact that the ecology and biodiversity of the temperate/sub-tropical Mediterranean Sea offer a different setting from the tropical western Atlantic, specific knowledge on this second invasion is needed. Here, we: (i) review the scientific knowledge available on the ecology of invasive lionfishes, (ii) discuss such knowledge in the context of invasion ecology and (iii) suggest future research avenues on the P. miles invasion in the Mediterranean Sea. In addition, we offer an update on the spread of P. miles in the Mediterranean Sea. While the history and development of the Mediterranean invasion are resolved and some mitigation plans have been implemented locally, the study of the interactions of P. miles with Mediterranean species and their impact on the local biodiversity is in its infancy. Closing this gap will lead to important fundamental insights in invasion ecology and will result in predictions on the impact of P. miles on the ecology and ecosystem services of the Mediterranean Sea. Such information will have practical implications for policy-makers aiming to devise sound and efficient mitigation plans.
["Citizen science"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

The alien conifer Cupressus arizonica can outcompete native pines in Mediterranean mixed forests under climate change
Exotic species have been introduced in afforestation and reforestation initiatives worldwide. Climate change, including increased aridity and extreme events, can promote the spread of exotic species used in forest plantations while hampering the performance of natives. Evaluating whether climate change may affect the success of biological invasions is key to project dominance shifts in forest ecosystems, yet it requires a comprehensive approach that integrates main demographic rates driving tree population dynamics. Here, we evaluated the performance of co-occurring native pine species (Pinus pinaster, P. nigra and P. sylvestris) and the exotic Cupressus arizonica in mixed forests in Mediterranean mountains by comparing their main demographic rates (regeneration, mortality and growth) and radial growth response to extreme droughts and to climate change scenarios. Overall, the exotic C. arizonica showed less growth dependence to climatic variability, higher growth resilience to drought, lower mortality and higher regeneration capacity than P. sylvestris and P. pinaster. However, P. nigra showed higher regeneration and similar growth response to extreme droughts than C. arizonica. In addition, growth models pointed to better performance of the exotic species under future climate change scenarios than co-occurring natives. Our results suggest that C. arizonica can increase its dominance (relative presence within the forest area), which can enhance its invasive potential and range expansion. Thus, attention is needed to better control the invasive potential of this exotic species in Mediterranean forest ecosystems.
["Biological invasions"]
["Plant Water Relations and Carbon Dynamics", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Tree-ring climate responses"]

Proximity to forest plantations is associated with presence and abundance of invasive plants in landscapes of south-central Chile
Invasive plant species (IPs) are widespread in forests and cause substantial environmental, economic and social impacts. They occupy native ecological niches, causing local extinctions to the detriment of native biodiversity and disrupting ecosystem services provision. How landscape characteristics may determine the success of IPs remains unclear and, more importantly, how land-use and land-cover changes may result in spatial shifts in the invasion risk. Furthermore, the study of how landscape factors may influence biological invasions has focused on particular species, but not the IPs’ community. In this study, we identify and assess landscape variables that influence the presence and distribution of the IPs’ community in temperate forests of a global biodiversity hotspot in south-central Chile. We fitted spatially explicit models, combining field-sampling information and landscape variables related to land-use/land-cover, topography, climate, soil characteristics and anthropogenic factors to explain and predict the presence and distribution of the IPs’ community. From the whole sampling of plant species, we identified eight plant species classified as IPs: three trees and five shrubs. We used field data from 125 500 × 2 m-transects, in which we registered species richness, abundance and basal area of IPs’ community. Distance to forest plantations was the landscape variable with the most substantial influence on IPs’ presence and distribution. Richness, abundance and basal area of IPs’ trees were higher at shorter distances from forest plantations. The basal area of IPs’ trees was the best model explaining the relationship between IPs’ community and landscape variables. All descriptors of the IPs’ community showed similar spatial patterns: species richness, abundance and tree basal area are higher in more disturbed areas. Our findings contribute to increasing our understanding of the distribution patterns of IPs in forest landscapes. Our models can be suitable tools for designing strategies to prevent, mitigate or make integrated control of the impacts of invasive species in forest landscapes.
["Alien plants"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Variation in root traits and phenotypic plasticity between native and introduced populations of the invasive plant Chromolaena odorata
Understanding intraspecific trait variations, particularly for invasive species that occupy large geographic areas with different resource conditions, can enhance our understanding of plant responses to changes in environmental resources. However, most related studies have focused on aboveground traits, while variations in root traits and responses to changes in resources during biological invasion have not been clarified. To fill this knowledge gap, we compared the root traits of Chromolaena odorata from 10 introduced populations in Southeast Asia and 12 native populations in North and Central America under different soil nutrients. The introduced populations of the invader exhibited greater resource-acquisitive root traits, characterized by reduced fine root diameter but increased proportions of absorbing root length and specific root length, compared to the native populations. Although nutrient addition significantly affected root traits, the introduced populations showed greater phenotypic plasticity in four traits (root / shoot ratio, specific root length, absorbing root length proportion, and branching intensity) than the native populations. Different root trait syndromes were observed between the introduced and native populations. These results indicate that after introduction, C. odorata may shift towards a more soil resource-acquisitive strategy and thus respond more positively to increased soils nutrients, thereby showing better performance in high-resource environments. This study provides a better understanding of how species respond to environment changes and reveals the factors underlying exotic plant invasion success.
["Chromolaena odorata"]
["Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Weed Control and Herbicide Applications"]

Detailed analysis of prey taxonomic composition indicates feeding habitat partitioning amongst co-occurring invasive gobies and native European perch
One of the negative impacts of non-native invasive species on trophic interactions in an invaded ecosystem occurs via increased interspecific competition for food resources between the invader and local species of the same food niche. In freshwaters, there are usually several fish species that feed on similar food resources. Ponto-Caspian gobies are amongst the most successful and widespread invaders colonising European waterways. They have a wide food niche and an opportunistic feeding strategy, with a focus on benthic invertebrates and piscivory occurring occasionally mainly in the case of large individuals. Competition with native percids for food resources is predicted on the basis of high dietary overlap. However, studies published so far provide no unequivocal answer. In order to resolve this question, we conducted a comparative taxonomic analysis of gut content, with an emphasis on chironomids and amphipods, of the invasive monkey goby (Neogobius fluviatilis), racer goby (Babka gymnotrachelus) and the native Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis) occurring sympatrically in a large lowland European river, the Bug River in Poland. We found that each species forages in slightly different habitats, as indicated by the different composition of prey species in the gut content. This suggests feeding niche partitioning between the studied species facilitating their co-existence and reduction or avoidance of competition for food resources. Resource partitioning regarding prey types and foraging habitats is a mechanism for permitting the co-existence of closely-related alien gobies with similar food preferences in the invaded waters and co-occurrence with local species. This mechanism can contribute to their invasion success, as observed in European waters during the recent decades. We also demonstrate that precise prey identification to the lowest possible taxon is crucial to reveal the dietary overlap between co-occurring fish species and to predict the impact of alien invaders on native species through interspecific competition, as well as to recommend such an approach in studies upon fish foraging strategies.
["Feeding niche"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Substrate complexity reduces prey consumption in functional response experiments: Implications for extrapolating to the wild
Understanding the density-dependent impacts of an invasive predator is integral for predicting potential consequences for prey populations. Functional response experiments are used to assess the rate of prey consumption and a predator’s ability to search for and consume prey at different resource densities. However, results can be highly context-dependent, limiting their extrapolation to natural ecosystems. Here, we examined how simulated habitat complexity, through the addition of substrate in which prey can escape predation, affects the functional response of invasive European green crabs (Carcinus maenas) foraging on two different bivalve species. Green crabs feeding on varnish clams (Nuttallia obscurata) shifted from a Type II hyperbolic functional response in the absence of substrate to density-independent consumption when prey could bury. Green crabs ate few Japanese littleneck clams (Venerupis philippinarum) under all densities, such that no functional response curve of any type could be produced and their total consumption was always density independent. However, the probability of at least one Japanese littleneck clam being consumed increased significantly with initial clam density and crab claw size across all treatments. At mean crab claw size and compared to trials without substrate, the proportion of varnish clams consumed were 4.2 times smaller when substrate was present, but substrate had a negligible effect (1.2 times) on Japanese littlenecks. The proportion of varnish clams consumed increased with crab claw size and were higher across both substrate conditions than the proportion of Japanese littlenecks consumed; however, the proportion of Japanese littleneck clams consumed increased faster with claw size than that of varnish clams. Our results suggest that including environmental features and variation in prey species can influence the density-dependent foraging described by functional response experiments. Incorporating replicable features of the natural environment into functional response experiments is imperative to make more accurate predictions about the impact of invasive predators on prey populations.
["Decapods"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Competitive interaction in headwaters: slow upstream migration leads to trophic competition between native and non-native amphipods
The spread of non-native species is one of the outcomes of global change, threatening many native communities through predation and competition. Freshwater ecosystems are particularly affected by species turnover with non-native species. One species that has been established in Central Europe for many decades – or even a few centuries – is the amphipod crustacean Gammarus roeselii. Although G. roeselii is nowadays widespread in major river systems, there have been recent reports of its spread into smaller streams that are typically inhabited by the native species Gammarus fossarum. Due to their leaf shredding ability, G. fossarum takes up a key position in headwater streams. This raises the important question, to what extent G. roeselii can equivalently take over this function. To answer this question, we collected both species from nine different sites in a mid-mountain river system (Kinzig catchment, Hesse, Germany) and investigated their functional similarity using a combination of stable isotope analysis, gut content and functional morphology. The species hardly differed in morphological characteristics, only females showed differences in some traits. Gut content analysis indicated a broad dietary overlap, while stable isotopes showed a higher trophic position of G. roeselii. The observed functional overlap could intensify interspecific competition and allow the larger and more predaceous G. roeselii to replace G. fossarum in the future as a headwater keystone species. However, the differentiation in the stable isotopes also shows that co-existence can occur by occupying different trophic niches. Moreover, the wide range of inhabited sites and exploited resources demonstrate the omnivorous lifestyle of G. roeselii, which is likely to help the species succeed in rapidly changing environments.
["Freshwater ecosystems"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Worldwide distribution and phylogeography of the agave weevil Scyphophorus acupunctatus (Coleoptera, Dryophthoridae): the rise of an overlooked invasion
Global plant trade represents one of the main pathways of introduction for invertebrates, including insects, throughout the world. Non-native insects include some of the most important pests affecting cultivated and ornamental plants worldwide. Defining the origins and updating the distribution of non-native invasive species is pivotal to develop effective strategies to limit their spread. The agave weevil, Scyphophorus acupunctatus (Coleoptera, Dryophthoridae), is a curculionid beetle native to Central and North America, although it also occurs in Eurasia, Africa, Oceania and South America as a non-native species. Despite being widespread, the extent of occurrence and origins of European populations of the agave weevil have been overlooked. In the present study, the current and potential worldwide distribution of S. acupunctatus was assessed and an analysis of its genetic diversity in the native and non-native ranges was performed. By analysing occurrences from local phytosanitary bulletins and citizen-science platforms, the agave weevil was confirmed to be widely distributed and to occur on all continents, except Antarctica. Additionally, there is potential for expansion throughout the world, as estimated by species distribution models. Nucleotide and haplotype diversity of the COXI mitochondrial gene (about 650 bp) was lower in the non-native (n = 39 samples) than native populations (n = 26 samples). The majority of introduced individuals belonged to the same haplotype, suggesting that most introductions in Europe might have occurred from a small geographical area in Central America. Constant transboundary monitoring and national laws must be considered to reduce the spread of the agave weevil, given that a bridgehead effect may occur from non-native populations to new suitable areas.
["Agave"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Date Palm Research Studies", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

﻿Limitations of invasive snake control tools in the context of a new invasion on an island with abundant prey
In October 2020, a new population of invasive brown treesnakes (Boiga irregularis) was discovered on the 33-ha Cocos Island, 2.5 km off the south coast of Guam. Cocos Island is a unique conservation resource, providing refuge for many lizards and birds, including endangered species, which were extirpated from mainland Guam by invasive predators including brown treesnakes. We sought to evaluate the usefulness of toxic baiting with acetaminophen-treated carrion baits and cage trapping, common tools for the control of brown treesnakes on mainland Guam, as potential eradication tools on Cocos Island. We evaluated multiple bait types and bait presentations: on the ground, suspended in the canopy emulating aerial bait applications and in four plastic-tube bait station configurations intended to exclude non-target species. We monitored all baits with time-lapse cameras. Despite improved exclusion of non-targets by bait station design, most baits were quickly removed by non-target species, particularly coconut crabs (Birgus latro) and Mariana monitors (Varanus tsukamotoi). Monitoring of 1,250 baits available for 2,427 bait nights resulted in no observations of brown treesnakes taking any bait. Subsequently, we tested two trap types commonly used on Guam and compared trapping success with live versus dead mouse lures. In 10,553 trap nights using live and dead mouse lures, we only captured one brown treesnake, in a trap with a live mouse lure. These baiting and trapping rates are so low as to be ineffectual for all practical purposes. Concurrent visual searching and hand capture of brown treesnakes during initial rapid response efforts demonstrates that these low baiting and trapping success rates are not a result of low snake density. We make a case for our assumption that the ineffectiveness of these tools on Cocos Island is due to the context of extremely high abundance of preferred live prey, primarily large geckos and birds. Our results have profound conservation ramifications, because any future island invasions by brown treesnakes are likely to occur within similarly prey-rich environments where these baiting and trapping methods might be similarly ineffective.
["bait stations"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Wildlife Conservation and Criminology Analyses"]

﻿Biochar application can mitigate the negative impacts of drought in invaded experimental grasslands as shown by a functional traits approach
Climate, land-use, and invasive plants are among the important drivers of ecosystem functions through the changes in functional composition. In this study, we studied the effects of climate (drought), land-use (Biochar application), and the presence of invasive species on the productivity and performance of invaded experimental grasslands. We ran a greenhouse experiment under controlled conditions, in which we grew a combination of the three native species Silene gallica, Brassica nigra and Phalaris minor and the invasive species Avena fatua, being subjected to four different treatments: Biochar+drought, Biochar, drought, and control. We measured the productivity of native and invasive species as total biomass and root to shoot ratio (RSR) and the performance by measuring several plant functional traits (plant height, specific leaf area (SLA), leaf dry matter content (LDMC), leaf nitrogen content (Nmass), leaf carbon content (Cmass) and total chlorophyll (Chltotal) of all individuals occurring in each plot. The study showed that invasive species were more productive (higher total biomass and lower RSR) and performed better (taller plants, higher SLA, Nmass, Cmass and Chltotal and lower LDMC) than the native species under drought conditions as well as with Biochar application. Accordingly, in contrast to our expectations, the lower productivity and performance of native compared to invasive species under drought were not mitigated by Biochar application. These results provided a deeper understanding of the interplay between climate, land-use, and biological invasion, which is crucial for predicting the consequences of changes in functional composition on ecosystem functions and consequently restoration of grasslands.
["Climate mitigation"]
["Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Water Relations and Carbon Dynamics"]

﻿Allelopathy and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi interactions shape plant invasion outcomes
The novel weapon hypothesis suggests that allelopathy is an important mechanism for exotic plants to successfully invade native plant communities. Allelochemicals from exotic plants affect both native plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in soil. To explore these effects, we conducted pot experiments using a native plant community comprising of Chenopodium album L., Vitex negundo L., Rhus chinensis Mill., and Acer truncatum Bunge. We incorporated AMF strains (Funneliformis mosseae, Glomus versiforme, and Rhizophagus intraradices in a 1:1:1 volume ratio) into a soil mixture comprising equal volumes of autoclaved field soil and grass ash at five concentrations (0 g L–1, CK; 10 g L–1, LRE; 20 g L–1, NRE; 30 g L–1, MRE; and 40 g L–1, HRE) to investigate the allelopathy of Rhus typhina L. root and its interactions with AMF on the native plant community. Our results indicated that low concentrations of allelochemicals promoted the relative growth rate and leaf nitrogen content in the native plant community, which was attributed to the increased environmental stress that improved the degree of leaf photosynthetic capacity and organic synthesis rate in the native communities. Moreover, allelochemicals with toxicity decreased the colonization rates of AMF. Meanwhile, the presence of allelopathic effects induced a decrease in leaf nitrogen, and allelopathy altered the effects of AMF on the native community. Specifically, the high concentration of allelochemicals altered the positive effect of AMF on the total aboveground biomass of the native plant community to a negative effect, likely by decreasing colonization rates or affecting soil physicochemical properties and the composition of the mycorrhizal communities. Consequently, it is necessary to consider the effects of AMF when testing the roles of allelopathy or the novel weapons hypothesis in biological invasions. ﻿Graphical abstract
["Allelochemicals"]
["Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿Genetic and morphological insights into the Carpobrotus hybrid complex around the world
The genus Carpobrotus N.E.Br. comprises between 12 and 25 species, most of which are native to South Africa. Some Carpobrotus species are considered among the most damaging invasive species in coastal dune systems worldwide. In their introduced areas, these species represent a serious threat to native species and significantly impact soil conditions and geochemical processes. Despite being well studied, the taxonomy of Carpobrotus remains problematic, as the genus comprises a complex of species that hybridize easily and are difficult to distinguish from each other. To explore the population genetic structure of invasive Carpobrotus species (i.e., C. acinaciformis and C. edulis) across a significant part of their native and non-native ranges, we sampled 40 populations across Argentina, Italy, New Zealand, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and the USA. We developed taxon-specific microsatellite markers using a Next Generation Sequencing approach to analyze the population genetic structure and incidence of hybridization in native and non-native regions. We identified three genetically distinct clusters, which are present in both the native and non-native regions. Based on a set of selected morphological characteristics, we found no clear features to identify taxa morphologically. Our results suggest that the most probable sources of global introductions of Carpobrotus species are the Western Cape region of South Africa and the coastline of California. We suggest that management actions targeting Carpobrotus invasions globally should focus on preventing additional introductions from the east coast of South Africa, and on searching for prospective biocontrol agents in the Western Cape region of South Africa.
["Biological invasions"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

﻿Headwater refuges: Flow protects Austropotamobius crayfish from Faxonius limosus invasion
This study explores the geospatial relationship between the invasive crayfish species Faxonius limosus and the native Austropotamobius bihariensis and A. torrentium crayfish populations in Eastern Europe, identifying the environmental factors which influence the invasion. We used species distribution modelling based on several climatic, geophysical and water quality variables and crayfish distributional data to predict sectors suitable for each species within the river network. Thus, we identified the sectors potentially connecting invasive and native population clusters and quantified the degree of proximity between competing species. These sectors were then extensively surveyed with trapping and hand searching, doubled by eDNA methods, in order to assess whether any crayfish or the crayfish plague pathogen Aphanomyces astaci are present. The predictive models exhibited excellent performance and successfully distinguished between the analysed crayfish species. The expansion of F. limosus in streams was found to be limited by flash-flood potential, resulting in a range that is constrained to lowland rivers. Field surveys found neither crayfish nor pathogen presence in the connective sectors. Another interesting finding derived from the screening efforts, which are among the most extensive carried out across native, apparently healthy crayfish populations, was the existence of a latent infection with an A. astaci strain identified as A-haplogroup. Our results provide realistic insights for the long-term conservation of native Austropotamobius species, which appear to be naturally protected from F. limosus expansion. Conservation efforts can thus focus on other relevant aspects, such as ark-sites establishment for preventing the spread of more dangerous invasive crayfish species and of virulent crayfish plague pathogen strains, even in locations without direct contact between crayfish hosts.
["Crayfish plague"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Disruptions caused by invasive species and climate change on the functional diversity of a fish community
As the effects of climate change continue to intensify, non-native species are becoming more prevalent in estuarine ecosystems. This has implications for the taxonomic and functional diversity of fish communities. Historically, biodiversity has been a synonym of taxonomic diversity, however this approach often fails to provide accurate insights on ecosystem functioning and resilience. To better understand how climate change is impacting fishes and their traits’ composition, a long-term dataset from Minho Estuary (NW Iberian Peninsula) fish assemblage was analyzed. The results suggest that climate change and extreme weather events altered the prevailing trait modalities of fishes, which led to the overall decrease in functional diversity of the fish assemblage over the course of a decade. This decrease is associated to the loss of some trait modalities that are exclusively found in native species. On the other hand, the invasive species added novel traits associated with the conditions of high temperatures and low precipitation regime currently observed in the studied area. Our results highlight that the shift in the presence and dominance of some traits is directly influenced by climatic changes. Also, despite the addition of novel modalities by the invasive species, the fish assemblage is now less functional and taxonomically diverse than previously. ﻿Graphical abstract
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿Defining the biosecurity risk posed by soil found on sea freight
Soil associated with sea freight (shipping containers, flat racks and used machinery) arriving at New Zealand seaports was sampled for bacteria, fungi, nematodes, macro-invertebrates and plant seeds. Pseudomonads were selectively isolated, as several significant plant pathogens fall within this bacterial group. The mean and median sample weight collected from sea freight was found to be 417.3 and 152.7 g, respectively, with most recovered soil (73%) collected from the underside of shipping containers and flat rack containers. Likewise, for used machinery, most recovered soil (75%) was found under the machinery. Flat rack containers had significantly higher soil contamination compared to shipping containers and used machinery, but generally the counts and incidence of taxa were significantly lower compared to these other freight types. Viable bacteria, fungi, nematodes, seeds and arthropods were associated with the soil, with both counts g-1 and prevalence in samples varying with taxa, freight type, and location on the freight. Various regulated biosecurity organisms were recovered from the samples, including Aphelenchoides besseyi (rice white tip nematode), and seeds from genera such as Brachiaria, Cortaderia, Digitaria, Eragrostis and Sonchus. There were also live arthropod taxa that were not recorded as being present in New Zealand. No known plant pathogenic pseudomonads were identified through sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene. Shipping containers were found to be an important introduction pathway for exotic species, and therefore require careful monitoring and management. Comparisons of the incidence and mean number of organisms associated with soil on sea freight compared to a previous study with soil on footwear, generally showed that incidence and counts of many taxa were lower on sea freight, indicating that biosecurity risk can vary with pathway. However, prioritising one soil pathway over another according to the risks they present, and differentially allocating resources is problematic because the relative risk is dynamic, dictated by factors such as new pests or diseases entering the respective pathways.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cassava research and cyanide"]

﻿Changes in the functional and phylogenetic diversity of above- and below-ground plant communities invaded by two alien herbs
Introduced plants can have long-lasting and irreversible effects on the communities and ecosystems they invade. A critical step towards understanding the legacy of plant introductions is the characterisation of changes in the invaded plant communities and how these changes are related to biogeochemical modifications. Here, we addressed this issue by comparing the impacts of two large invasive herbs, Gunnera tinctoria and Impatiens glandulifera, on the compositional, functional, and phylogenetic structure of the standing vegetation (above-ground communities) and the soil seed bank (below-ground communities). The introduction of both invasive species was associated with a significant decrease in above-ground species richness, with subsequent changes in the functional diversity and phylogenetic dispersion of the vegetation. Yet, these invaders differed in their long-term impacts and the reversibility of any modifications they caused. While G. tinctoria invasions resulted in phylogenetically clustered communities (both above- and below-ground) that were clearly distinct from uninvaded ones, seed bank communities invaded by I. glandulifera were indistinguishable from uninvaded ones, despite major compositional changes above-ground. Further, we found alterations in nutrient cycling associated with G. tinctoria invasions that could facilitate its local persistence and exacerbate any negative effects on native diversity. Our findings suggest a high susceptibility of pre-invasion above-ground communities to colonisation by distantly related herbs. However, the seed banks showed a degree of resilience against both invaders, with no major differences in species richness. Ultimately, differences in the impacts of these large invasive herbs suggest that dominance in the vegetation and a large stature are poor predictors of long-term plant community changes, including regeneration potential from seed, which are associated with plant introductions.
["Functional diversity"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Predation risk by largemouth bass modulates feeding functional responses of native and non-native crayfish
Context-dependency is prevalent in nature, challenging our understanding and prediction of the potential ecological impacts of non-native species (NNS). The presence of a top predator, for example, can modify the foraging behaviour of an intermediate consumer, by means of non-consumptive effects. This raises the question of whether the fear of predation might modulate consumption rates of NNS, thus shaping the magnitude of ecological impacts. Here, we quantified the functional feeding responses of three non-native crayfish species – red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii, rusty crayfish Faxonius rusticus and virile crayfish Faxonius virilis – compared to the native analogue signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus, considering the predation risk imposed by a top fish predator, the globally invasive largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides. We applied the comparative functional response (FR) approach using snails as prey and exposing crayfish to water containing predator and dietary chemical cues or not. All crayfish species presented a destabilising Type II FR, regardless of the presence of chemical cues. Predation risk resulted in significantly longer handling times or lower attack rates in non-native crayfish; however, no significant differences were observed in signal crayfish. We estimated per capita impacts for each species using the functional response ratio (FRR; attack rate divided by handling time). The FRR metric was lower for all crayfish species when exposed to predation risk. Rusty crayfish demonstrated the highest FRR in the absence of chemical cues, followed by signal crayfish, virile crayfish and red swamp crayfish. By contrast, the FRR of signal crayfish was nearly twice that of rusty crayfish and virile crayfish and ten times greater than red swamp crayfish when chemical cues were present. The latter result agrees with the well-recognised ecological impacts of signal crayfish throughout its globally-introduced range. This study demonstrates the importance of considering the non-consumptive effects of predators when quantifying the ecological impacts of intermediate non-native consumers on prey. The direction and magnitude of the modulating effects of predators have clear implications for our understanding of NNS impacts and the prioritisation of management actions.
["ecology of fear"]

﻿Stable isotope values and trophic analysis of invasive three-spined stickleback in Upper Lake Constance points to significant piscivory
The three-spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus was introduced into Lake Constance in the 1940s and occupied a limited range until late 2012. Since then the species has expanded from a solely littoral habitat in Upper Lake Constance, but now makes seasonal migrations into the pelagic zone. This behavioral change has been accompanied by a drastic increase in stickleback abundance. In order to integrate information about feeding of sticklebacks in Upper Lake Constance over two consecutive years, stomach content analysis was combined with seasonal stable isotope analysis on two types of tissue (muscle and liver). Isotope values were also obtained for zooplankton, whitefish larvae and eggs. We calculated the contribution of potential food sources for sticklebacks’ diet using a Bayesian mixing model (SIMMR). Furthermore, we determined stickleback trophic position, and δ15N and δ13C values were compared with those of other fish species of Lake Constance. The results of the Bayesian model as well as the stomach content analysis showed clear evidence of stickleback predation on fish eggs and larvae. Stickleback δ15N values were elevated during winter and comparable to those of piscivorous pike, while δ15N values of zooplankton were reduced, and those of whitefish larvae were similar to those of sticklebacks after accounting trophic fractionation of N isotopes. Trophic position calculations further identified sticklebacks as piscivorous, while the δ13C values of the liver and stomach content analysis suggests that a benthic-pelagic species pair may exist in Lake Constance. These findings support the hypotheses that sticklebacks in Lake Constance can display piscivorous feeding behaviour on sympatric fish species, most likely whitefish larvae and eggs.
["Carbon littoral source"]
["Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

﻿Flowers of Impatiens glandulifera as hubs for both pollinators and pathogens
Flower infestation by pathogens may influence pollination effectiveness. At the same time, by sharing infested flowers, pollinators increase transmission of pathogens. In the presented study we identified fungi that colonised flowers of the invasive alien Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandulifera, one of the most nectar rewarding plants in Europe, as well as its pollinators. We determined factors (e.g., plant size, length of flower lower sepal and the width of its entry, air temperature and sun illuminance) that affect pathogen species presence and pollinators numbers. The study was conducted in three regions in Poland differing in time from the I. glandulifera invasion onset. It allowed embedding our results in the context of the evolution of increased competitive ability (EICA) hypothesis. With reference to this hypothesis we tested whether I. glandulifera from the two younger populations are more frequently pollinated than individuals from the old one, which may be a result of the higher infection prevalence in the flowers of individuals from the latter population. Harmful primary pathogens of I. glandulifera (e.g., Botrytis cinerea and Fusarium graminearum) were identified from its flowers. Although the knowledge of the impact of the recorded pathogen species on the pollinators that transmit them is still limited, these pathogens are known to cause devastating diseases of native plant species and to incur significant economic losses in crops. Therefore, the facilitation of their transmission by I. glandulifera in the invaded communities may pose a serious threat both to native biodiversity and nearby crop production. We did not find support for the EICA hypothesis that flower release from pathogens may increase the pollinator’s activity. Bombus hortorum was the most frequent visitor in the youngest surveyed population, while B. pascuorum was most frequent in the two others. So far the dominance of B. hortorum as a pollinator of I. glandulifera has not been recorded. A possible explanation is that flowers in the youngest population, with significantly wider entries than in the two older ones, were more accessible for this large bumblebee. We suggest that the shifts in flower dimensions may result from the evolutionary processes and/or phenotypic plasticity; however, this suggestion needs to be confirmed in further studies. At the same time, it can be expected that exceptionally frequent visits of B. hortorum in flowers of I. glandulifera in the youngest population may contribute to increasing transmission rate of pathogen species to the new native host plants that are particularly associated with this pollinator.
["Bumblebee activity"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Tree diversity reduces co-infestation of Douglas fir by two exotic pests and pathogens
The number of non-native invasive pests and pathogens has increased dramatically in recent years, with disastrous consequences for the health of forests worldwide. Multiple studies have shown that mixed forests may suffer less damage from insect pests than single species forest. This “associational resistance” can be notably explained by the fact that heterospecific neighbours make it more difficult for herbivores to locate and then exploit their host tree. However, the validity of these findings in the case of non-native, invasive pests and pathogens remains to be demonstrated. In this study, we monitored over two hundred Douglas firs in pure and mixed plots of a tree diversity experiment to assess the damage from the non-native gall midge Contarinia pseudotsugae and the non-native needle cast Nothophaeocryptopus gaeumannii. The probability of Swiss needle-cast infection was lower in Douglas fir trees surrounded by heterospecific neighbours. Gall midge damage was lower on Douglas firs surrounded by taller neighbours, consistent with the hypothesis of reduced host Apparency. Douglas fir trees that were more damaged by C. pseudotsugae were also more often infected by N. gaeumannii. Our study thus provides partial support of the associational resistance hypothesis of mixed forests against exotic pests and pathogens. Promoting forest species diversity at the stand level could, therefore, offer interesting prospects for reducing the impact of biological invasions, especially those involving both pests and pathogens.
["Douglas fir"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Fire effects on ecosystems", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

﻿Tree species preference and impact on native species community by the bark beetle Ips amitinus in a recently invaded region
Non-native bark beetle species represent a major threat to forest ecosystems. The bark beetle Ips amitinus has recently expanded its range from Finland into northern Sweden. In the present study, we asked the following questions: (i) What is the distribution status in Sweden? (ii) Is there a difference in preference and reproductive success between Norway spruce and Scots pine? (iii) How common is the species after range expansion and does it influence the native community of bark- and wood-boring beetle species? We established the presence of I. amitinus and co-existence with the native community through checks of logging residues at 382 localities in northern Sweden. In addition, attack densities and reproductive success were compared between spruce and pine through investigating field material and by a no-choice rearing experiment. We found that I. amitinus is distributed over large parts of northern Sweden. Within its distribution area, it was found in 58% of all checked localities. It is one of the most common bark beetle species in logging residues and a higher proportion of Norway spruce objects compared to Scots pine were colonised. Attack density and reproductive success were higher in Norway spruce in field material and in the rearing experiment. There was no significant difference in the number of native bark- and wood-boring beetle taxa between localities where I. amitinus was present or absent.
["community ecology"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Conditions of emergence of the Sooty Bark Disease and aerobiology of Cryptostroma corticale in Europe
The sooty bark disease (SBD) is an emerging disease affecting sycamore maple trees (Acer pseudoplatanus) in Europe. Cryptostroma corticale, the causal agent, putatively native to eastern North America, can be also pathogenic for humans causing pneumonitis. It was first detected in 1945 in Europe, with markedly increasing reports since 2000. Pathogen development appears to be linked to heat waves and drought episodes. Here, we analyse the conditions of the SBD emergence in Europe based on a three-decadal time-series data set. We also assess the suitability of aerobiological samples using a species-specific quantitative PCR assay to inform the epidemiology of C. corticale, through a regional study in France comparing two-year aerobiological and epidemiological data, and a continental study including 12 air samplers from six countries (Czechia, France, Italy, Portugal, Sweden and Switzerland). We found that an accumulated water deficit in spring and summer lower than -132 mm correlates with SBD outbreaks. Our results suggest that C. corticale is an efficient airborne pathogen which can disperse its conidia as far as 310 km from the site of the closest disease outbreak. Aerobiology of C. corticale followed the SBD distribution in Europe. Pathogen detection was high in countries within the host native area and with longer disease presence, such as France, Switzerland and Czech Republic, and sporadic in Italy, where the pathogen was reported just once. The pathogen was absent in samples from Portugal and Sweden, where the disease has not been reported yet. We conclude that aerobiological surveillance can inform the spatial distribution of the SBD, and contribute to early detection in pathogen-free countries.
["Acer pseudoplatanus"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Testing early detection of pine processionary moth Thaumetopoea pityocampa nests using UAV-based methods
Early detection of insect infestation is a key to the adoption of control measures appropriated to each local condition. The use of remote sensing was recommended for a quick scanning of large areas, although it does not work well with signals bearing low intensity or items that are difficult to detect. Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV, or drone) may help in getting closer to individual trees and detect atypical signals of small dimensions. The larvae of the pine processionary moth (PPM, Thaumetopoea pityocampa (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775, Lepidoptera, Notodontidae) build conspicuous silk nests on the external parts of the host plants at the beginning of the winter and their early detection may prompt managers to adopt management techniques. This work aims at testing two deep learning methods (Region-based Convolutional Neural Network - R-CNN and You Only Look Once - YOLO) to detect the nests under three different conditions of host plant species and forest stands in southern Europe. YOLO algorithm provided better results and it allowed us to achieve F1-scores as high as 0.826 and 0.696 for the detection of presence / absence and the individual nests, respectively. The detection of all the nests that can be present on a tree is not achievable with either UAV scanning or traditional ground observation, therefore the integration of the methods may allow the complete efficiency of the surveillance. The use of UAV combined with Artificial Intelligence (AI) image analysis is recommended for further use in forest and urban settings for the detection of the PPM nests. The recommended methods can be extended to other pest systems, especially when specific symptoms can be associated with an insect pest species.
["AI algorithm"]
["Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Duplex real-time PCR assay for the simultaneous detection of Ophiostoma novo-ulmi and Geosmithia spp. in elm wood and insect vectors
Dutch elm disease (DED) is a destructive tracheomycosis caused by Ophiostoma novo-ulmi, an ascomycete probably originating in East-Asia that is devastating natural elm populations throughout Europe, North America and Asia. The fungus is mainly spread by elm bark beetles that complete their life cycle between healthy and diseased elms. Recently, it has been highlighted that some fungi of the genus Geosmithia, which are similarly well associated with bark beetles, seem to also play a role in the DED pathosystem acting as mycoparasites of O. novo-ulmi. Although some relationship between the fungi is clear, the biological cycle of Geosmithia spp. within the DED cycle is still partly unclear, as is the role of Geosmithia spp. in association with the bark beetles. In this work, we tried to clarify these aspects by developing a qPCR duplex TaqMan assay to detect and quantify DNA of both fungi. The assay is extremely sensitive showing a limit of detection as low as 2 fg μl–1 for both fungi. We collected woody samples from healthy and infected elm trees throughout the beetle life cycle. All healthy elm samples were negative for both Geosmithia spp. and O. novo-ulmi DNA. Geosmithia spp. are never present in infected, but living trees, while they are present in frass of elm bark beetles (EBB – Scolytus spp.) and at each stage of the EBB life cycle in much higher quantities than O. novo-ulmi. This work provides a better understanding of the role and interactions occurring amongst the main players of the DED pathosystem.
["DNA quantification"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research"]

﻿Vertical spread of Hymenoscyphus fraxineus propagules
Currently, the ash dieback causal agent Hymenoscyphus fraxineus is an established invasive pathogen in most European countries. Its potential to spread quickly among invaded forests is based on its propagules: airborne inoculum composed mainly of ascospores originated in apothecia growing on leaf litter infected during the previous vegetation season. The spread of the inoculum by air masses to distant areas is probable and depends on the availability of the ascospores in higher levels of air. Our study aimed to detect the inoculum in an infected area at heights of more than 20 meters. Our study was conducted in a municipal locality (Boršov nad Vltavou) with tens of infected ash trees (Fraxinus excelsior) in South Bohemia (SW Czechia). The infected trees surround an agricultural silo where five rotating arm spore traps (rotorods) were mounted for ten consequent 48h samplings during the peak of the sporulating season (17th July to 6th August 2020). The spore traps were mounted 48, 37, 25, 14 and 0,3 meters above ground. Samples were quantified by qPCR. Results clearly proved the ability of the spores to reach a height of 48 meters. Furthermore, H. fraxineus DNA was detected from all five spore traps during all ten samplings. Mostly, the amount of detected spores showed a decreasing trend with height, and varied a lot. During some of the samplings, higher spore concetrations were achieved at the top than at the lower traps, which can be explained by horizontal air transfer of the inoculum from other infected areas. Based on GLM analyses, higher spore concentrations were achieved during days without rain, lower air temperatures, after cloudy, humid and rainy weather without strong winds. A combination of rotorod ROTTRAP 52 with qPCR quantification proved to be an efficient technology for a study focused on the vertical spread of H. fraxineus propagules.
["airborne inoculum"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Allergic Rhinitis and Sensitization", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Myrtus communis in Europe threatened by the pandemic and South African strains of the myrtle rust pathogen Austropuccinia psidii (Sphaerophragmiaceae, Pucciniales)
Austropuccinia psidii, the causal agent of myrtle rust, has emerged as a significant threat to Myrtaceae in planted and natural woody ecosystems. The first detection of A. puccinia in South Africa was from severely infected ornamental Myrtus communis. This raised concern that M. communis, the sole Myrtaceae species native to Europe and an important component of vegetation in Mediterranean regions, could be threatened by the rust. In light of the potential threat to this unique species, seed was collected from 12 Italian provenances of M. communis, including mainland and island (Sardinia and Sicily) populations. We assessed the susceptibility of these provenances to both the pandemic and South African strains of A. psidii. In Colombia, where the pandemic strain of A. psidii is native, seedlings rapidly became infected by natural inoculum. In South Africa, a preliminary screening of seedlings by artificial inoculation with a single-uredinium isolate produced high levels of disease. Finally, plants of each of the 12 provenances were planted and monitored in Florence, Italy. To date, these showed no signs of disease, but will continue to be monitored. This study highlights the significant threat that both the pandemic and South African strains of A. puccinia pose to M. communis in Europe.
["biosecurity"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

﻿Searching for the competitive ability of the alien seagrass Halophila stipulacea with the autochthonous species Cymodocea nodosa
The tropical seagrass Halophila stipulacea (Forsskål) Ascherson, 1867 entered in the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal more than 100 years ago. In coastal-marine ecosystems the spatial niche of H. stipulacea is often overlapped with that of native Mediterranean Sea seagrasses and therefore it might out-compete them. Aiming to better understand its invasiveness potential, we monitored a Southern Mediterranean shallow coastal-marine water habitat from August 2010 to August 2011, where H. stipulacea co-occurred with the native seagrass Cymodocea nodosa (Ucria) Ascherson, 1870. Besides, the year-round dynamics of H. stipulacea was also monitored in four periods. To test the hypothesis that the presence/absence of H. stipulacea may have an effect on C. nodosa density, we analyzed the shoot density of C. nodosa in 8 sites, 4 sites where H. stipulacea was present (impacted sites) and 4 where H. stipulacea was absent (control sites). The results showed significant differences in C. nodosa shoot density according to the presence/absence of H. stipulacea, with the lowest values observed in sites where it co-occurred with H. stipulacea. We hypothesize that the dense rhizome-sediment net created by H. stipulacea can interfere with C. nodosa density, pushing down its rhizomes in the anoxic layer. The leaf features of H. stipulacea were generally comparable to those of other Mediterranean populations. In January 2011 a significant decline of H. stipulacea was observed, maybe related to changes in the environmental conditions that have become unfavorable (e.g. hydrodynamics, turbidity) and, unexpectedly, the seagrass disappeared in April 2011. In January, we also observed the occurrence of the green alien alga Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder, 1945 which rapidly invaded the bare substrate left by H. stipulacea.
["Cymodocea nodosa"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Potential impacts of invasive crayfish on native benthic fish: shelter use and agonistic behaviour
Spinycheek crayfish (Faxonius limosus) and signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) are successful North American invasive crayfish species distributed throughout Europe. Both species compete with native benthic fish for shelter. In a laboratory approach, we assessed competition for shelter and antagonistic interactions between these invasive crayfish species and the native benthic fish species, stone loach (Barbatula barbatula) and bullhead (Cottus gobio). This allows for studying the potential impacts of invasive crayfish on native benthic fish. Spinycheek crayfish and signal crayfish were able to gain control of the shelter and could successfully displace both benthic fish species. For stone loach, the presence of crayfish significantly decreased their shelter use and caused several behavioural changes such as reduced activity and increased hiding behaviour outside the shelter. Although the shelter use by bullheads was not reduced, they displayed similar behavioural changes, if less intense. Invasive crayfish species showed remarkable combative interactions against both species of benthic fishes, evidenced by the high number of aggressive interactions, especially concerning stone loach. Our results highlight the pronounced dominance of invasive crayfish over benthic fish in terms of shelter competition and aggressive interactions under laboratory conditions, which consequently might promote the latter’s exposure to predation.
["Antagonistic interactions"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

﻿Intraguild predation as a potential explanation for the population decline of the threatened native fish, the European mudminnow (Umbra krameri Walbaum, 1792) by the invasive Amur sleeper (Perccottus glenii Dybowski, 1877)
Biotic interactions exerted by invasive species have a strong effect on ecosystems. Intraguild predation may contribute to the decline in the distribution, abundance and population size of native species and may facilitate the spread of non-native taxa. In this study, we investigated the feeding ecology of the invasive fish Amur sleeper (Perccottus glenii Dybowski, 1877) in a lowland watercourse, where it co-exists with the threatened native fish European mudminnow (Umbra krameri Walbaum, 1792). We used two sampling protocols that differed in the frequency of sampling time (e.g. monthly samplings and samplings in 10-day intervals) to provide evidence of predation, an interaction that may lead to the decline of mudminnow populations with the spread of the Amur sleeper. Aquatic macroinvertebrates comprised a major part of the diet for both sampling intervals. However, finer temporal resolution revealed the importance of fish, especially mudminnow juveniles, as a periodically available food source in the Amur sleeper’s diet. A high degree of dietary overlap was found between the different size groups of the Amur sleeper, but larger specimens tended to feed on a relatively higher proportion of fish. Our results suggested that temporal resolution of stomach content analyses may largely determine inferences on the importance of predation on juvenile mudminnow. Overall, we found that intraguild predation could contribute to the decline of European mudminnow populations, which underscores the importance of effective control measures to prevent the further spread of the invasive Amur sleeper.
["Diet analysis"]

﻿Invasive terrestrial invertebrate detection in water and soil using a targeted eDNA approach
Terrestrial invasive invertebrates can rapidly colonise new areas, causing detrimental effects on biodiversity, economy and lifestyle. Targeted environmental DNA (eDNA) methods could constitute an early detection tool given their sensitivity to small numbers of individuals. We hypothesised that terrestrial runoff would transport eDNA from the land into adjacent waterbodies and used the invasive yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) as a model species to test this hypothesis. We collected water samples from four waterbodies adjacent (< 10 m from the creek edge) to infestations following rainfall events for eDNA analysis. We also collected soil samples from areas of known infestations and tested five eDNA extraction methods to determine their efficiency to extract eDNA from soil. Water samples resulted in positive yellow crazy ant eDNA amplification (20–100% field replicates across all sites), even at one site located 300 m away from where ants had been detected visually. Soil samples resulted in a higher percentage of false negatives when sampled from ant transit areas than from nest entrances. Unpurified DNA extracts from soil also resulted in false negative detections and only after applying a purification step of DNA extracts, did we detect yellow crazy ant eDNA in 40–100% of field replicates across all methods and sites. This is the first study to empirically show that eDNA from a terrestrial invertebrate can be successfully isolated and amplified from adjacent or downstream waterbodies. Our results indicate that eDNA has the potential to be a useful method for detecting terrestrial invertebrates from soil and water.
["Biosecurity"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Genetic analyses reveal a complex introduction history of the globally invasive tree Acacia longifolia
Acacia longifolia (Sydney golden wattle) is considered one of the most problematic plant invaders in Mediterranean-type ecosystems. In this study, we investigate the species’ invasion history by comparing the genetic diversity and structure of native (Australia) and several invasive range (Brazil, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and Uruguay) populations and by modelling different introduction scenarios using these data. We sampled 272 A. longifolia individuals – 126 from different invasive ranges and 146 from the native range – from 41 populations. We genotyped all individuals at four chloroplast and 12 nuclear microsatellite markers. From these data we calculated diversity metrics, identified chloroplast haplotypes, and estimated population genetic structure based on Bayesian assignment tests. We used Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) models to infer the likely introduction history into each invaded country. In Australia, population genetic structure of A. longifolia appears to be strongly shaped by the Bass Strait and we identified two genetic clusters largely corresponding to mainland Australian and Tasmanian populations. We found invasive populations to represent a mixture of these clusters. Similar levels of genetic diversity were present in native and invasive ranges, indicating that invasive populations did not go through a genetic bottleneck. Bayesian assignment tests and chloroplast haplotype frequencies further suggested a secondary introduction event between South Africa and Portugal. However, ABC analyses could not confidently identify the native source(s) of invasive populations in these two countries, probably due to the known high propagule pressure that accompanied these introductions. ABC analyses identified Tasmania as the likely source of invasive populations in Brazil and Uruguay. A definitive native source for Spanish populations could also not be identified. This study shows that tracing the introduction history of A. longifolia is difficult, most likely because of the complexity associated with the extensive movement of the species around the world. Our findings should be considered when planning management and control efforts, such as biological control, in some invaded regions.
["Australian acacias"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

﻿Population level interactions between an invasive woodwasp, an invasive nematode and a community of native parasitoids
Parasitic nematodes and hymenopteran parasitoids have been introduced and used extensively to control invasive Eurasian Sirex noctilio woodwasps in pine plantations in the Southern Hemisphere where no members of this community are native. Sirex noctilio has more recently invaded North America where Sirex-associated communities are native. Sirex noctilio and its parasitic nematode, Deladenus siricidicola, plus six native hymenopteran woodwasp parasitoids in New York and Pennsylvania, were sampled from 204 pines in 2011–2019. Sirex noctilio had become the most common woodwasp in this region and the native parasitoids associated with the native woodwasps had expanded their host ranges to use this invader. We investigated the distributions of these species among occupied trees and the interactions between S. noctilio and natural enemies as well as among the natural enemies. Sirex noctilio were strongly aggregated, with a few of the occupied trees hosting hundreds of woodwasps. Nematode parasitism was positively associated with S. noctilio density, and negatively associated with the density of rhyssine parasitoids. Parasitism by the parasitoid Ibalia leucospoides was positively associated with host (S. noctilio) density, while parasitism by the rhyssine parasitoids was negatively associated with density of S. noctilio. Thus, most S. noctilio come from a few attacked trees in a forest, and S. noctilio from those high-density trees experienced high parasitism by both the invasive nematode and the most abundant native parasitoid, I. l. ensiger. There is little evidence for direct competition between the nematodes and parasitoids. The negative association occurring between rhyssine parasitoids and I. l. ensiger suggests rhyssines may suffer from competition with I. l. ensiger which parasitize the host at an earlier life stage. In addition to direct competition with the native woodwasp Sirex nigricornis for suitable larval habitat within weakened trees, the large S. noctilio population increases the parasitoid and nematode populations, which may increase parasitism of S. nigricornis.
["Aggregation"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Chelonian challenge: three alien species from North America are moving their reproductive boundaries in Central Europe
Biological invasions by alien species have substantial economic impacts and are a major driver of the ongoing decline and loss of biodiversity. Through humans, the North American pond slider (Trachemys scripta) has acquired a global distribution over the last decades and is currently listed among the worst invasive reptile species. However, in more recent times, other freshwater chelonian species have increasingly been recorded far outside their native distribution ranges as well, not only on the same continent but also on others. Despite that, the impact of alien chelonians on their respective new ecosystems remains unclear. The long-term effects and severity of impacts of alien populations mostly depend on whether they ultimately succeed in establishing themselves. This is not entirely resolved for chelonians in Central Europe. To answer that, we investigated wild populations of three non-native chelonian species from North America in Germany (Pseudemys concinna, Graptemys pseudogeographica and Trachemys scripta) applying population genetic approaches. We revealed the successful reproduction of all three species in Germany and provide the very first record for the reproduction of P. concinna and G. pseudogeographica in a temperate continental climate zone outside their native distribution. Based on our unambiguous evidence of natural reproduction, we call for dedicated studies to verify how widespread established populations are and to investigate the existing and potential impacts of all three species in a range of ecosystems along a climatic gradient. Such data is urgently needed to revise the current risk assessments of non-native chelonians, especially in Central European countries.
["biodiversity loss"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿Effects of the invasive leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.) on plant community structure are altered by management history
Invasive species threaten biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, often causing changes in plant community composition and, thus, the functional traits of that community. Quantifying changes in traits can help us understand invasive species impacts on communities; however, both the invader and the plant community may be responding to the same environmental drivers. In North America, leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula L.) is a problematic invader that reduces plant diversity and forage production for livestock. Its documented effects on plant communities differ amongst studies, however, potentially due to differences in productivity or land management. To identify the potential effects of leafy spurge on plant communities, we quantified leafy spurge abundance, plant species richness, forage production, functional group composition and community weighted mean traits, intensively at a single site and extensively across ten sites differing in management. We then tested how leafy spurge abundance related to these variables as a function of site management activities. Leafy spurge abundance was consistently associated with fewer plant species, reduced forage production and more invasive grass. Community-weighted specific root length also consistently increased with leafy spurge abundance, suggesting that belowground competition may be important in determining co-existence with leafy spurge. Other changes were dependent on management. Native forbs were excluded as leafy spurge became more abundant, but only in grazed sites as these species were already absent from ungrazed sites. Taller plants better persisted in dense leafy spurge patches, but only in grazed sites, consistent with either facilitation of taller species via associational defences or competitive exclusion of shorter species in ungrazed sites and dense leafy spurge patches. These results show that, despite some emergent properties of invasion, management context can alter invasion impacts by causing changes in the plant community and its interactions with the invader.
["co-existence"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Linear scaling – negative effects of invasive Spiraea tomentosa (Rosaceae) on wetland plants and pollinator communities
Invasive plants directly and indirectly disrupt the ecosystem functioning, of which indirect effects, for example, through trophic cascades, are particularly difficult to predict. It is frequently assumed that the impact of an invading species on the ecosystem is proportional (linearly related) to its density or abundance in a habitat, but this assumption has rarely been tested. We hypothesised that abundance and richness of plants and potentially pollinators of wet meadows change as a result of invasion of steeplebush Spiraea tomentosa and that these changes are proportional to the density of the shrub. We selected 27 sites amongst wet meadows habitats invaded by S. tomentosa with coverage ranging from 0% to 100% and examined the diversity of plants, as well as the abundance and diversity of flower visitors (bees, butterflies with moths and flies). Our results showed that the richness of plants, as well as the richness and number of individuals of flower visitors, decrease significantly and linearly with an increase of the S. tomentosa cover. This finding supports the hypothesis that the impact of an invasive species can be proportional to their population density, especially if this species is limiting the available resources without supplying others. Our study is the first to show such an unequivocal negative, linear effect of an invasive shrub on the abundance and richness of potential pollinators. It proves that the negative impact of S. tomentosa on the wetland ecosystem appears even with a minor coverage of the invader, which should be taken into account when planning activities aimed at controlling the population of this transformer species. The simultaneously detected linear dependence allows us to assume that the benefits of controlling secondary populations of the shrub can be proportional to the incurred effort.
["bees"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Evidence of plant-soil feedback in South Texas grasslands associated with invasive Guinea grass
Plant-soil feedback (PSF) processes play an integral role in structuring plant communities. In native grasslands, PSF has a largely negative or stabilizing effect on plant growth contributing to species coexistence and succession, but perturbations to a system can alter PSF, leading to long-term changes. Through changes to soil abiotic and biotic properties, invasion by non-native plants has a strong impact on belowground processes with broad shifts in historical PSFs. Guinea grass, Megathyrsus maximus, an emerging invasive in South Texas, can efficiently exclude native plants in part due to its fast growth rate and high biomass accumulation, but its impacts on belowground processes are unknown. Here, we provide a first look at PSF processes in South Texas savannas currently undergoing invasion by Guinea grass. In this pilot study, we addressed the question of how the presence of the invasive M. maximus may alter PSF compared to uninvaded grasslands. Under greenhouse conditions, we assessed germination and growth of Guinea grass and the seed bank in soil collected from grasslands invaded and uninvaded by Guinea grass. We found that Guinea grass grown in soil from invaded grasslands grew taller and accumulated higher biomass than in soil from uninvaded grasslands. Plants grown from the seed bank were more species rich and abundant in soil from uninvaded grasslands but had higher biomass in soil from invaded grasslands. In South Texas savannas, we found evidence to support shifts in the direction of PSF processes in the presence of Guinea grass with positive feedback processes appearing to reinforce invasion and negative feedback processes possibly contributing to species coexistence in uninvaded grasslands. Future work is needed to determine the mechanisms behind the observed shifts in PSF and further explore the role PSF has in Guinea grass invasion.
["bulk soil"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Application of genetic and Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture analyses to design adaptive feral cat control in a large inhabited island
Faunas of oceanic islands have a high proportion of endemic species which contribute to the uniqueness of island communities. Island species are particularly naïve and vulnerable to alien predators, such as cats (Felis catus). On large, inhabited islands, where the complete eradication of feral cat populations is not considered feasible, control represents the best management option to lower their detrimental effects on native fauna. The first objective of our study was to investigate population genetics of feral cats of Réunion Island. The second objective was to understand the space use of feral cats established near the breeding colonies of the two endemic and endangered seabirds of Réunion Island, the Barau’s Petrel (Pterodroma baraui) and the Mascarene Petrel (Pseudobulweria aterrima). We evaluated genetic diversity, population structure and gene flow amongst six groups of feral cats located at a maximum of 10 km from known petrel colonies. We also analysed the behaviour and space use of one of these feral cat groups using camera-trap data and Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture (SECR) models. Genetic analyses revealed that feral cats were structured in three genetic clusters explained mostly by the island topography. Two clusters were observed at five sampled sites, suggesting high connectivity amongst these sites. The last cluster was found in only one site, suggesting high isolation. This site was a remote mountain area located in the vicinity of one of the main Barau’s Petrel colonies. The behavioural study was conducted on this isolated feral cat population. Mark recapture analysis suggested that feral cats were present at low density and had large home ranges, which is probably explained by reduced food availability. Finally, we make several recommendations for refining feral cat management programmes on inhabited islands.
["camera trapping"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Exploring the eDNA dynamics of the host-pathogen pair Pacifastacus leniusculus (Decapoda) and Aphanomyces astaci (Saprolegniales) under experimental conditions
The oomycete Aphanomyces astaci causes crayfish plague, a disease threatening native European crayfish. It is carried and transmitted by American crayfish species, which are the original hosts of A. astaci. In recent years, environmental DNA (eDNA) methods have been successfully implemented to monitor the spread of both A. astaci and its hosts. However, still little is known about how population density and other environmental factors influence the detectability of this host-pathogen complex. In a mesocosm experiment, we tested the influence of crayfish density, temperature and food availability on the detectability of eDNA for A. astaci and its host, signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus. We also compared eDNA results with crayfish population density measured by catch per unit effort (CPUE) from two lakes with varying crayfish density and A. astaci prevalence. The mesocosm experiment revealed that a limited set of controlled factors can substantially change the detectable amount of eDNA, even though the physical presence of the target organisms remains the same. In cold, clear water, eDNA quantities of both targets increased far more than in a linear fashion with increased crayfish density. However, the presence of food decreased the detectability of crayfish eDNA, presumably through increased microbial-induced eDNA degradation. For A. astaci, where eDNA typically represents living spores, food did not affect the detectability. However, high water temperature strongly reduced it. The increased complexity and variability of factors influencing eDNA concentration under natural conditions, compared to a controlled experimental environment, suggests that establishing a reliable relationship between eDNA quantities and crayfish density is difficult to achieve. This was also supported by field data, where we found minimal correspondence between eDNA quantity and CPUE data. A comparison between quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) analysis and droplet-digital PCR (ddPCR) analysis revealed higher detection success of the targets in field samples when using qPCR. Overall, our results support eDNA as an effective tool for presence-absence monitoring, but it seems less suited for biomass quantification and population density estimates. Detection of A. astaci and P. leniusculus is not influenced uniformly by respective environmental factors. Consequently, we recommend a strategy of monitoring both targets, where the detection of one may point towards the presence of the other.
["crayfish plague"]

﻿Phenology and morphology of the invasive legume Lupinus polyphyllus along a latitudinal gradient in Europe
Plant phenology, i. e. the timing of life cycle events, is related to individual fitness and species distribution ranges. Temperature is one of the most important drivers of plant phenology together with day length. The adaptation of their phenology may be important for the success of invasive plant species. The present study aims at understanding how the performance and the phenology of the invasive legume Lupinus polyphyllus vary with latitude. We sampled data across a >2000 km latitudinal gradient from Central to Northern Europe. We quantified variation in phenology of flowering and fruiting of L. polyphyllus using >1600 digital photos of inflorescences from 220 individual plants observed weekly at 22 sites. The day of the year at which different phenological phases were reached, increased 1.3–1.8 days per degree latitude, whereas the growing degree days (gdd) required for these phenological phases decreased 5–16 gdd per degree latitude. However, this difference disappeared, when the day length of each day included in the calculation of gdd was considered. The day of the year of the earliest and the latest climatic zone to reach any of the three studied phenological phases differed by 23–30 days and temperature requirements to reach these stages differed between 62 and 236 gdd. Probably, the invasion of this species will further increase in the northern part of Europe over the next decades due to climate warming. For invasive species control, our results suggest that in countries with a large latitudinal extent, the mowing date should shift by ca. one week per 500 km at sites with similar elevations.
["Flowering phenology"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Recurring infection by crayfish plague pathogen only marginally affects survival and growth of marbled crayfish
Invasive alien crayfish threaten the diversity of freshwater ecosystems and native crayfish fauna. In Europe, this is largely due to transmission of the crayfish plague to susceptible native crayfish. Many invasive species tolerate crayfish plague, but the infection still has the potential to reduce the fitness of a tolerant host due to energy trade-offs between immune response maintenance and life-history traits, such as growth and reproduction. In combination with other unfavourable conditions, such a response could alter further invasion success of an otherwise successful crayfish invader. We examined whether repeated infection with one of the most virulent haplogroups of crayfish plague agent (Aphanomyces astaci) affects growth or survival of the juvenile marbled crayfish (Procambarus virginalis). Juveniles were exposed to i) two levels of pathogen concentrations, and ii) two different feeding regimes under the higher pathogen concentration. In all performed trials, repeated infection reduced growth rates, while the combination of recurring infection and food limitation significantly increased mortality. The average energy cost of the immune response was estimated at 12.07 J/day for individuals weighing 0.3 grams. Since infections were frequent and pathogen concentrations high, results suggest that marbled crayfish is resistant to A. astaci pathogen and its survival is only affected by adding the stress of food limitation. The survival of almost half of the individuals exposed to high pathogen loads and extreme food limitation indicates that chronic infection by crayfish plague is unlikely to be an important factor impeding invasion success of the marbled crayfish, even under harsh conditions. Our results add to the growing body of evidence that marbled crayfish has potential to become one of the most successful freshwater invaders.
["food limitation"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Invertebrate Immune Response Mechanisms"]

﻿Genetic divergence and aggressiveness within a supercolony of the invasive ant Linepithema humile
Biological invasions constitute an opportunity to study the evolutionary processes behind species’ adaptations. The invasive potential of some species, like the Argentine ant (Linepithema humile), has likely been increasing because they show low intraspecific competition. However, multiple introductions over time or genetic divergence could increase the probability of intraspecific competition, constituting barriers for their dispersal and thus, decreasing invasive success. Here, we studied the genetic and behavioural variability of L. humile workers collected at six locations on the NW coast of the Iberian Peninsula, a possible scenario for multiple introductions and population divergence, due to its high level of maritime traffic and complex coastal geography. We analysed behaviours related to spatial navigation (exploration, wall-following), resources acquisition, and competition (inter and intraspecific aggressiveness) through two relevant seasons for the nest ecology: spring and autumn. Genetic analyses using microsatellites indicated that the nests studied belonged to the most spread supercolony in South Europe. However, we identified the existence of two genetically differentiated clusters in Galiza. Lethal interactions were found between workers from different and similar genetic clusters, but a trend suggests higher agonistic behaviours between the two genetic groups. Genetic differences were positively correlated with the geographical distance, but aggressiveness was not correlated with any of them. Ants from each of the tested nests expressed different behaviours with high plasticity through time. Ants from all nests showed more exploration and aggressiveness, less wall-following and faster detection of food in autumn than in spring, with no intraspecific aggressiveness observed in spring. Our findings suggest competition between nests of the same supercolony and behavioural seasonal variability, supporting the hypothesis of divergent evolutionary processes. The results of our work question the assumed unity of supercolonies of this species and offer insights for understanding the future adaptation of L. humile in the introduced areas.
["intraspecific competition"]

﻿Variation in plant traits and phylogenetic structure associated with native and nonnative species in an industrialized flora
Industrialized sites are hotspots for nonnative species because of continuous anthropogenic disturbance and nonnative propagule rain resulting from hitchhikers exchanged through global trade. Investigating plant traits and the phylogenetic structure of species at initial ports of entry can contribute to our understanding of how species are introduced to, assembled into, and survive at industrialized sites, which can also inform how susceptible these sites are to nonnative plant invasions. To compare native and nonnative species, we asked three questions: 1) Are plant traits differentially associated with species nativity (native versus nonnative)? (2) Do these traits have phylogenetic signals? and (3) What is the phylogenetic structure of each trait for native and nonnative species? We collected, identified, and vouchered 170 angiosperm species within the Garden City Terminal at the Port of Savannah, Georgia, USA, the largest container terminal in North America. Species nativity was derived from the literature, as were traits of pollination syndrome, dispersal syndrome, duration, and growth habit. Pearson’s Chi-squared tests were used to determine if traits were differentially associated with species nativity. Phylogenetic signal, along with mean pairwise distance (MPD) and mean nearest taxon distance (MNTD), were used to assess the degree of phylogenetic relatedness of native and nonnative species with each trait. Nonnative species showed a significant association with multiple pollination syndromes. Native species were significantly associated with perennial duration and zoophily pollination syndrome. All traits possessed a phylogenetic signal, and the anemophily pollination syndrome was significantly clustered for both native and nonnative species. Still, most other traits differed in their phylogenetic structure pattern based on the nativity. Overall, findings suggest that the environment is filtering for native and nonnative species that possess traits promoting introduction and survival at this industrialized point-of-entry. They also suggest that nonnative species trait differences partition available niches that promote their introduction to the site. More research is needed at industrialized sites to inventory and monitor the floristic community, investigate the establishment and spread probabilities of nonnative species, and prevent and mitigate nonnative species risks and impacts.
["global trade"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Invasive round goby shows higher sensitivity to salinization than native European perch
Salinity is an influential abiotic environmental factor in aquatic species, specifically in freshwater, where salinization causes ecosystem degradation. Secondary salinization, that is increases in salinity due to anthropogenic activities, can affect both osmoregulation and behaviour in freshwater fishes. It is generally believed that invasive species handle climatic change and environmental degradation better than native species, which is one reason for their invasion success. However, how invasive and native species cope with salinity changes remains little understood. Therefore, we investigated how low (500 µS/cm) and high salinity (2000 µS/cm) conditions affected oxygen consumption and behaviour in the invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) and the native European perch (Perca fluviatilis). Our results showed that in round goby oxygen consumption increased and swimming and non-swimming movements changed in response to salinity increments, whereas European perch was not affected by salinity. Thus, it seems as if the invasive round goby is more sensitive to changes in salinity than the native European perch. Our results fit with the minority of studies indicating invasive species being less tolerant than some native species to environmental changes. This finding could be explained by the adaptation of round goby to low salinity due to its long establishment in River Rhine. Further, our results are also confirming that the effect of salinity is species-specific. In addition, European perch and round goby show diametrically different behavioural response to disturbance which could be an effect of holding different ecological niches as well as their anatomical differences.
["European perch"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

﻿Presence of an alien turtle accelerates hatching of common frog (Rana temporaria) tadpoles
The presence of a predator affects prey populations either by direct predation or by modifying various parts of their life history. We investigated whether the hatching time, developmental stage, and body size at hatching of common frog (Rana temporaria) embryos would alter in the presence of a red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) as a predator. The presence of a predator affected all factors examined. We found that in the absence of the slider, the embryos hatched in 12 days, while hatching was accelerated by two days in slider treatment. At the same time, the embryos hatched smaller and at a lower stage of development with the slider than without it. Our study extends the range of predators studied, including the effect on different phases of development of potential amphibian prey.
["Antipredator defence"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

﻿Long-term changes in the prevalence of the crayfish plague pathogen and its genotyping in invasive crayfish species in Czechia
The widespread presence of North American alien crayfish in Europe is a major driver of native crayfish population declines, mainly because they are chronic carriers of the oomycete Aphanomyces astaci responsible for crayfish plague. Screening for the crayfish plague pathogen in host populations has become a common practice across Europe, but sampling usually covers spatial but not temporal variation. Our study focuses on the current situation in Czechia, where screening for A. astaci was first conducted in the mid-2000s. We provide data about the distribution and prevalence of this pathogen at almost 50 sites with three host crayfish: the spiny-cheek crayfish Faxonius limosus, signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus, and marbled crayfish Procambarus virginalis. Among these sites were 20 localities that were resampled several years (usually more than a decade) after the original screening for A. astaci. We did not detect any A. astaci infection in two studied P. virginalis populations but documented several new hotspots of highly infected P. leniusculus in Czechia, and the first site with the coexistence of the latter with F. limosus. Our data suggest that despite some fluctuations, A. astaci prevalence in North American host populations generally does not tend to change significantly over time; we only observed two cases of a significant increase and one of a significant decrease. We no longer detected A. astaci in several originally weakly infected populations, but our data suggest it likely still persists in these areas and threatens native crayfish populations. At the single known site in the country where P. leniusculus and F. limosus coexist, we documented the presence of the same A. astaci genotype group in both crayfish species, likely due to interspecific transmission of the pathogen from the former host to the latter. However, genotyping of A. astaci in infected host individuals still supported the link between specific pathogen genotypes and crayfish hosts, suggesting that assessment of sources of mass mortalities from the pathogen genotyping is feasible in European regions where the mutual contact of different American crayfish species is uncommon.
["Aphanomyces astaci"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

﻿Plankton hitch-hikers on naturalists’ instruments as silent intruders of aquatic ecosystems: current risks and possible prevention
Organism dispersal is nowadays highly driven by human vectors. This also refers to the aquatic organisms that can often silently spread in and invade new waters, especially when human vectors of dispersal act without brakes. Thus, it is mandatory to continuously identify human-mediated mechanisms of organism dispersal and implement proper biosecurity treatments. In this study, we demonstrate how the plankton net – one of the basic instruments in the equipment of every plankton sampling person is a good vector for plankton dispersal and invasions. We also demonstrate whether keeping the net in an ethanol solution after sampling is a proper biosecurity treatment, and what kind of treatments are implemented by people worldwide. The first simulation shows that bloom-forming cyanobacteria can easily infiltrate into the new environment thanks to the nets, and can prosper there. However, ethanol-based biosecurity treatment efficiently prevented their spread and proliferation in the new environment. The second simulation, based on wild plankton from an eutrophic lake, indicates that a plethora of phyto- and zooplankton taxa can infiltrate into the new waterbody through the net and sustain themselves there if the net is only flushed in the waterbody and left to dry after sampling (an approach that is commonly used by naturalists). Here, we also show that native plankton residents strongly shape the fate of hitch-hikers, but some of them like cyanobacteria can successfully compete with residents. Survey data alert us to the fact that the vast majority of biologists use either ineffective or questionable biosecurity treatments and only less than a tenth of samplers implement treatments based on disinfectant liquids. Our results emphasize that the lack of proper biosecurity methods implemented by the biologists facilitates the spread and invasions of plankton including also invasive species of a great nuisance to native ecosystems. Considering that naturalists usually use different instruments that might also be good vectors of plankton dispersal, it is necessary to develop proper uniform biosecurity treatments. No longer facilitating the plankton spread through hydrobiological instruments is the milestone that we, plankton samplers worldwide, should achieve together in the nearest future if we want to continue our desire to explore, understand, protect and save nature.
["Abiotic resistance"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

﻿Genetic and morphological evidence indicates the persistence of Japanese mitten crab mitochondrial DNA in Europe for over 20 years and its introgression into Chinese mitten crabs
Cryptic biological invasions are largely unrecognised, leading to an underestimation of the number of invading taxa and their potential impacts. The Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, is a highly invasive species with serious economic and ecological impacts in Europe. Recently, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) of the Japanese mitten crab, E. japonica, has been discovered in populations from The Netherlands, Poland and Germany, but the taxonomic status and time of introduction of specimens carrying this mtDNA are uncertain. To this end, we investigated the morphology and variation of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene of mitten crabs collected in central-western Europe between 1998 and 2020. Mitten crabs from Belgium harboured a Japanese mitten crab COI haplotype in 33% to 65% of individuals, even in our earliest samples from 1998. All other studied populations carried only Chinese mitten crab COI haplotypes. Morphologically, many of the juvenile Belgian mitten crabs showed intermediate traits between the two species, while all investigated adult mitten crabs, regardless of their mitochondrial haplotype or country of origin, were morphologically assigned to E. sinensis. This intermediate morphology of the juveniles and genetic-morphological discrepancy of adults suggests that Japanese mitten crabs introgressed with Chinese mitten crabs, which could have happened both before and after the introduction of mitten crabs to Europe. A specific Chinese mitten crab COI haplotype, found in Belgium, was previously only known from Vladivostok (Russia), where Chinese and Japanese mitten crab hybrids naturally occur. This Far East region is, therefore, a plausible source for at least part of the mitten crab mitochondrial diversity in Belgium.
["Belgium"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿Threats at home? Assessing the potential ecological impacts and risks of commonly traded pet fishes
Invasive alien species (IAS) are major drivers of global biodiversity loss, and the poorly regulated international pet trade is a source of emerging and future invaders. Predictions of the likely ecological impacts and risks of such IAS have been significantly enhanced in recent years with new metrics, which require application to many more actual and potential IAS. Hence, this study assesses the potential ecological impacts and risks of two readily available pet trade species: goldfish, Carassius auratus, a species with non-native populations worldwide; and white cloud mountain minnow, Tanichthys albonubes, a species with a limited invasion history to date. First, we compared the per capita feeding rates of these non-native species with two European trophically analogous natives – the stone loach, Barbatula barbatula, and the common minnow, Phoxinus phoxinus – using the Comparative Functional Response method. Second, we used foraging experiments in conspecific pairs to determine synergistic, neutral or antagonistic intraspecific interactions. Third, we performed novel object experiments using the two pet trade species to assess boldness, a known “dispersal enhancing trait”. Goldfish had the highest maximum feeding rates of the four species, while white cloud mountain minnows had the lowest. Neutral interactions were observed for all four species in the paired foraging experiments, with goldfish having the highest consumption and white cloud mountain minnows having the lowest. Goldfish demonstrated greater boldness, being more active during the experimental trials and more likely to approach a novel object than white cloud mountain minnows. Further, combining maximum feeding rates, boldness and species availabilities from our survey of pet shops, we assessed the relative invasion risks (RIR) of the two non-natives. This highlighted goldfish as the higher risk and most worthy of management prioritisation, mirroring its more extensive invasion history. We propose that such metrics have potential to direct future IAS policy decisions and management towards the ever-increasing rates of biological invasions worldwide.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Interaction effects of desiccation and temperature stress resistance across Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) developmental stages
Insects encounter multiple overlapping physiologically challenging environmental stressors in their habitats. As such, the ability of insects to withstand these stressors singly or interactively is fundamental in population persistence. Following its invasion in Africa, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) has successfully established and spread in most parts of the continent. However, the mechanisms behind its successful survival across arid and semi-arid African environments are relatively unknown. Here, we investigated the water balance of S. frugiperda across its developmental stages. Given the relationships between desiccation stress, temperature stress and other life history traits in arid ecosystems, we also measured interaction effects across metrics of these traits. Specifically, we measured basal body water content (BWC), water loss rates (WLRs) and the effects of desiccation pre-treatment on critical thermal minimum (CTmin), critical thermal maximum (CTmax) and fecundity. Body water content and WLR increased with age across larval instars. However, the effects of desiccation environments on WLRs were more dramatic for 5th and 6th larval instars. The 5th and 6th instars exhibited highest BWC and magnitude of WLRs plastic responses following desiccation treatment. The effects of desiccation pre-treatment on temperature tolerance were less apparent, only significantly improving CTmin in 2nd and 3rd larval instars and reducing CTmax in 5th instars. In addition, desiccation pre-treatment showed no significant effects on fecundity. These results show that water balance traits differ with developmental stage, while the effects of desiccation pre-treatment were more dramatic and inconclusive. The differential desiccation resistance, high proportional BWC and no desiccation pre-treatment effects on fecundity may help the species survive in arid and semi-arid environments. This information provides insights into understanding S. frugiperda survival under desiccating arid and semi-arid tropical environments and is significant in predicting pest outbreaks.
["Desiccation pre-treatment"]
["Physiological and biochemical adaptations", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Neurobiology and Insect Physiology Research"]

﻿Competitive effects of plant invaders on and their responses to native species assemblages change over time
Alien plant invaders are often considered to be more competitive than natives, and species-rich plant communities are often considered to be more resistant to invaders than species-poor communities. However, the competitive interactions between invaders and assemblages of different species richness are unlikely to be static over time (e.g. during a growth season). To test this, we grew five alien and five native species as invaders in a total of 21 artificial assemblages of one, two or four native competitor species. To test for temporal changes in the reciprocal effects of invaders and the competitor assemblages on each other, and how these depend on the species richness of the assemblages, we harvested plants at three growth stages (weeks 4, 8 and 12). We found that the invaders and competitor assemblages had negative effects on each other. Aboveground biomass of invaders was reduced by the presence of a competitor assemblage, irrespective of its species richness, and this difference gradually increased over time. Alien invaders accumulated more aboveground biomass than the native invaders, but only after 12 weeks of growth. Meanwhile, the invaders also negatively affected the biomass of the competitor assemblages. For multi-species assemblages, the increase in the negative effect of the presence of the invader occurred mainly between weeks 4 and 8, whereas it happened mainly between weeks 8 and 12 for the one-species assemblages. Our results suggest that although alien invaders are more competitive than native invaders, the competitive effects of the invaders on and their responses to native competitor assemblages changed over time, irrespective of the origin of the invaders.
["Coexistence"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

﻿Demography of an invading forest insect reunited with hosts and parasitoids from its native range
The Sirex woodwasp Sirex noctilio Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Siricidae), a widespread invasive pest of pines in the Southern Hemisphere, was first detected in North America in 2004. This study assessed the impacts of life history traits, host resistance and species interactions on the demography of S. noctilio in New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont, then compared key metrics to those found in the native range in Galicia, Spain. Many trees naturally attacked by S. noctilio in North America produced no adult woodwasps, with 5 of 38 infested trees (13%) sampled across six sites yielding 64% of emerging insects. Reproductive success was highest in the introduced host scots pine, Pinus sylvestris, but native red pine, Pinus resinosa, produced larger insects. Sirex noctilio required one or sometimes two years to develop and sex ratios were male biased, 1:2.98 ♀:♂. Body size and fecundity were highly variable, but generally lower than observed in non-native populations in the Southern Hemisphere. Hymenopteran parasitoids killed approximately 20% of S. noctilio larvae and 63% of emerging adults were colonized by the parasitic nematode Deladenus siricidicola, although no nematodes entered eggs. Demographic models suggested that S. noctilio in the northeastern USA have a higher potential for population growth than populations in the native range: estimated finite factor of increase, λ, was 4.17–4.52 (depending on tree species colonized), compared to λ = 1.57 in Spain.
["Forest pest"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

﻿Ecological and potential socioeconomic impacts of two globally-invasive crayfish
Quantifying the impacts of invasive species, relative to native analogues, is crucial for management and policy development. Two freshwater crayfish species of global concern, Cherax quadricarinatus and Procambarus clarkii, have established populations across Africa. Negative impacts on native biodiversity and socioeconomic impacts have been documented in other continents; however, there is a paucity of information on impacts from Africa and for C. quadricarinatus. To fill this literature gap, this study used laboratory experiments to determine potential ecological and socioeconomic impacts conferred by the crayfish species relative to a functionally similar native analogue, the river crab Potamonautes perlatus, on two static, but different resources. Consumption rates were derived for the three focal species consuming the macrophyte Potamogeton nodosus and dead Oreochromis mossambicus under different temperatures regimes (19 °C and 28 °C), representing summer and winter seasons in Southern Africa, with maximum feeding rate used to infer impact. Potamogeton represents ecologically-important nutrient cycling macrophytes, as well as crucial habitat for juvenile fish, whereas dead O. mossambicus was used as proxy for fish catches in artisanal gillnet fisheries often scavenged by crayfish. Consumption of both resources by all the decapods increased with temperature. However, the two invasive crayfish showed different impact trends where P. clarkii had a significantly higher consumption of macrophytes than the other two decapods regardless of temperature and the same trends seen, but for C. quadricarinatus scavenging on fish. Crayfish introductions clearly have potential for highly destructive ecological and socioeconomic impacts to invaded systems as compared to the native crabs. The disparity between resource use emphasises the necessity to use appropriate geographical and species-specific contexts to avoid erroneous conclusions from generalised risk assessments. Derived feeding rates can be used for rapid impact assessments and comparisons in other invasion cores.
["Cherax quadricarinatus"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

﻿The distribution and impact of an invasive plant species (Senecio inaequidens) on a dune building engineer (Calamagrostis arenaria)
Disturbance is thought to enhance the probability of invasive species establishment, a prerequisite for naturalisation. Coastal dunes are characterised by disturbance in the form of sand dynamics. We studied the effect of this disturbance on the establishment and spread of an invasive plant species (Senecio inaequidens) in European coastal dunes. Local sand dynamics dictate the spatial configuration of marram grass (Calamagrostis arenaria). Therefore, marram grass configuration was used as a reliable proxy for disturbance. Since marram grass plays a crucial role in natural dune formation, we evaluated the possible effects S. inaequidens could have on this process, if it is able to naturalise in European coastal dunes. We expected the highest probability of S. inaequidens establishment at intermediate marram grass cover because too low cover would increase sand burial, whereas high cover would increase competition. However, our results indicate that S. inaequidens is quite capable of handling higher levels of sand burial. Thus, the probability of S. inaequidens establishment was high under low marram cover but slightly lowered when marram cover was high, hinting at the importance of competition. We expected a negative impact of Senecio-altered soils on marram grass growth mediated by soil biota. However, marram grass grew better in sand gathered underneath Senecio plants due to abiotic soil modifications. This enhanced growth may be caused by Senecio leaf litter elevating nutrient concentrations in an otherwise nutrient-poor substrate. If such increased plant growth is a general phenomenon, further expansion of S. inaequidens could accelerate natural succession in European coastal dunes.
["Ammophila arenaria"]
["Aeolian processes and effects", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

﻿Using leaf functional traits to remotely detect Cytisus scoparius (Linnaeus) Link in endangered savannahs
Identification of invasive plant species must be accurate and timely for management practices to be successful. Currently, Cytisus scoparius (Scotch broom) is expanding unmonitored across North America’s west coast, threatening established ecological processes and altering biodiversity. Remote detection of leaf functional traits presents opportunities to better understand the distribution of C. scoparius. This paper demonstrates the capacity for remotely sensed leaf functional traits to differentiate C. scoparius from other common plant species found in mixed grassland-woodland ecosystems at the leaf- and canopy-levels. Retrieval of leaf nitrogen percent, specifically, was found to be significantly higher in C. scoparius than each of the other 22 species sampled. These findings suggest that it may be possible to accurately detect introduced C. scoparius individuals using information collected from leaf and imaging spectroscopy at fine spatial resolutions.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Remote Sensing in Agriculture", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿Mate choice errors may contribute to slow spread of an invasive Eurasian longhorn beetle in North America
Tetropium fuscum (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) is a Eurasian longhorn beetle and forest pest that first became invasive to Nova Scotia, Canada around 1990. In the time since its introduction, T. fuscum has spread only about 150 km from its point of introduction. In its invasive range, T. fuscum co-exists with its congener Tetropium cinnamopterum. Although they are ecologically similar species, T. fuscum tends to infest healthier trees and has a smaller host range than T. cinnamopterum. If they successfully interbreed, this could lead to hybrid individuals that are more problematic than either parent species. On the other hand, if T. fuscum can make mating errors in the field, but is not producing hybrid offspring, then this waste of mating resources could help explain the slow spread of T. fuscum in North America. We conducted no-choice and choice mating experiments between T. fuscum and T. cinnamopterum males and females and determined that both T. fuscum and T. cinnamopterum males make mate-choice errors with heterospecific females in a laboratory setting. Our results suggest that mating errors may play a role in the slow spread of T. fuscum in North America.
["Congener"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿Leaf trait differences between 97 pairs of invasive and native plants across China: effects of identities of both the invasive and native species
Many studies have attempted to test whether certain leaf traits are associated with invasive plants, resulting in discrepant conclusions that may be due to species-specificity. However, no effort has been made to test for effects of species identity on invasive-native comparisons. Here, we compared 20 leaf traits between 97 pairs of invasive and native plant species in seven disturbed sites along a southwest-to-northeast transect in China using phylogenetically controlled within-study meta-analyses. The invasive relative to the native species on average had significantly higher leaf nutrients concentrations, photosynthetic rates, photosynthetic nutrients- and energy-use efficiencies, leaf litter decomposition rates, and lower payback time and carbon-to-nitrogen ratios. However, these differences disappeared when comparing weakly invasive species with co-occurring natives and when comparing invasives with co-occurring widespread dominant natives. Furthermore, the magnitudes of the differences in some traits decreased or even reversed when a random subset of strongly to moderately invasive species was excluded from the species pool. Removing rare to common natives produced the same effect, while exclusion of weakly to moderately invasives and dominant to common natives enhanced the differences. Our study indicates that the results of invasive-native comparisons are species-specific, providing a possible explanation for discrepant results in previous studies, such that we may be unable to detect general patterns regarding traits promoting exotic plant invasions through multi-species comparisons.
["Invasive plant species"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

﻿Establishment and new hosts of the non-native seed beetle Stator limbatus (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Bruchinae) on acacias in Europe
Stator limbatus is a phytophagous beetle native to warm regions of North and Central America, feeding on Fabaceae seeds and one of the most polyphagous species within the subfamily Bruchinae, here reported for the first time in Europe and on new hosts. Adult beetles emerged from Acacia spp. seeds collected in the islands of Corsica (France), and Sardinia (Italy). The wide presence in Sardinia and Corsica supports the hypothesis that this alien species was introduced several years ago. In both islands, S. limbatus emerged from Acacia mearnsii seeds, with infestation rates of up to 74.2 and 90.8% in 2019 and 2020, respectively. This seed beetle also emerged from two previously unreported host species, Acacia saligna and A. pycnantha, showing highest infestation rates of 4.0 and 95.1%, respectively. Both Acacia species are reported as new host associations with S. limbatus. Overall, seed infestation rates recorded in 2019 and 2020 indicate that S. limbatus is well established and that Mediterranean bioclimatic conditions are suitable for its population increase in size. This study lays the foundations for further research on known and potential host species and the spread and distribution of S. limbatus in Europe.
["Acacia mearnsii"]

﻿Seed viability of common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) is affected by seed origin and age, but also by testing method and laboratory
Common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) is an annual Asteraceae species native to North America which is highly invasive across Europe and has harmful impacts, especially on human health and agriculture. Besides its wide ecological range, particularly its high reproductive power by seeds is promoting its spread to various habitats and regions. To prevent further spread and to control the plant, the European Commission funded projects and COST-Actions involving scientists from all over Europe. A joint trial was set up comprising eight different laboratories from Europe to study seed viability variation in different seed samples. Three different testing methods (viability test with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC), a germination test combined with a subsequent TTC test and a crush test) were tested within the EU-COST-Action SMARTER network to four different seed origins. The viability test results from different laboratories were compared for variation amongst tests and laboratories. The main aim was to optimise the reliability of testing procedures, but results revealed not only significant effects of seed origin and seed age on seed viability, but also considerable differences between the output of the individual testing methods and furthermore between laboratories. Due to these significant differences in the results of the testing labs, additionally a second test was set up. Twelve Austrian ragweed populations were used for TTC testing to obtain a precise adjustment of the testing method as well as a tight guideline for interpreting the results, particularly for the TTC state “intermediate” since a proper classification of TTC-intermediate coloured seeds is still a challenge when determining viability rates.
["Common ragweed"]
["Weed Control and Herbicide Applications", "Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions", "Seed Germination and Physiology"]

Growing up in a new world: trait divergence between rural, urban, and invasive populations of an amphibian urban invader
Cities are focal points of introduction for invasive species. Urban evolution might facilitate the success of invasive species in recipient urban habitats. Here we test this hypothesis by rearing tadpoles of a successful amphibian urban coloniser and invader in a common garden environment. We compared growth rate, morphological traits, swimming performance, and developmental rate of guttural toad tadpoles (Sclerophrys gutturalis) from native rural, native urban, and non-native urban habitats. By measuring these traits across ontogeny, we were also able to compare divergence across different origins as the tadpoles develop. The tadpoles of non-native urban origin showed significantly slower developmental rate (e.g., the proportion of tadpoles reaching Gosner stage 31 or higher was lower at age 40 days) than tadpoles of native urban origin. Yet, tadpoles did not differ in growth rate or any morphological or performance trait examined, and none of these traits showed divergent ontogenetic changes between tadpoles of different origin. These findings suggest that prior adaptation to urban habitats in larval traits likely does not play an important role in facilitating the invasion success of guttural toads into other urban habitats. Instead, we suggest that evolutionary changes in larval traits after colonization (e.g., developmental rate), together with decoupling of other traits and phenotypic plasticity might explain how this species succeeded in colonising extra-limital urban habitats.
["AIAI hypothesis"]

What doesn’t kill you doesn’t make you stronger: Parasites modify interference competition between two invasive amphipods
We used a freshwater amphipod-microsporidian model (Ponto-Caspian hosts: Dikerogammarus villosus and D. haemobaphes, parasite: Cucumispora dikerogammari) to check whether parasites affect biological invasions by modulating behaviour and intra- and interspecific interactions between the invaders. We tested competition for shelter in conspecific and heterospecific male pairs (one or both individuals infected or non-infected). In general, amphipods of both species increased their shelter occupancy time when accompanied by infected rather than non-infected conspecifics and heterospecifics. Infected amphipods faced lower aggression from non-infected conspecifics. Moreover, D. villosus was more aggressive than D. haemobaphes and more aggressive towards conspecifics vs. heterospecifics. In summary, infection reduced the intra- and interspecific competitivity of amphipods, which became less capable of defending their shelters, despite their unchanged need for shelter occupancy. Dikerogammarus haemobaphes, commonly considered as a weaker competitor, displaced by D. villosus from co-occupied locations, was able to compete efficiently for the shelter with D. villosus when microsporidian infections appeared on the scene. This suggests that parasites may be important mediators of biological invasions, facilitating the existence of large intra- and interspecific assemblages of invasive alien amphipods.
["aggression"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Myxozoan Parasites in Aquatic Species"]

The biology and ecology of the invasive silver-cheeked toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), with emphasis on the Eastern Mediterranean
Invasive species pose threats to either human health or inflict ecological and/or economic damage. The silver-cheeked toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), a Lessepsian species, is one of the most harmful species in the Mediterranean Sea, because of its potent neurotoxin, impacts on marine biodiversity, and the increased costs and labor they inflict on fishers. Since the catch and consumption of this pufferfish is prohibited by almost all countries bordering the Mediterranean, they have now expanded into the entire Mediterranean and Black Sea. We performed a comprehensive study of L. sceleratus covering ecological aspects, growth, reproduction, diet and trophic level based on samples from southwestern coasts of Turkey. The estimated growth parameters were L∞ = 88.7 cm, K = 0.27 year-1, C = 0.6 and WP = 0.1. Their sex-ratio was M/F = 1:0.69. Lagocephalus sceleratus appears to be a batch spawner with discontinuous oocyte recruitment and has different spawning seasons in the Eastern Mediterranean which seem to be based on temperature cues which get shorter in duration as one moves north from the Suez. We also report their first positive ecological trait, that they are controlling some other invasive species through their diets, such as lionfish, Red Sea goatfish, rabbitfish and longspine sea urchins, in addition to controlling themselves through cannibalism, which appears to be density-dependent. They are indeed a top predator in the region with a trophic level of 4.1. We suggest that targeted fishing using improved gear-types to reduce fishing gear damages are initiated, and that finding commercial markets for pufferfish could help to naturally fund ongoing control efforts.
["Cannibalism"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Farmers’ knowledge, perception and management practices of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda Smith) in Manica province, Mozambique
This study aimed to gather information about farmers’ knowledge, perception and management practices of the newly introduced insect pest, the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Manica province, Mozambique. A total of 200 smallholder farmers with experience in maize cultivation were surveyed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The survey was conducted between May and August 2019 in four districts: Macate, Manica, Sussundenga and Vanduzi. Most farmers were unable to morphologically identify fall armyworm (FAW) (from 93.9% in Vanduzi to 98.0% in Manica). Most farmers have experienced FAW damage in their farms (from 92% in Macate to 98.0% in Manica). Maize is mostly planted in October and November (from 44.0% in Sussundenga to 60.0% of farmers in Manica), but the highest infestation period is believed to be between November and February. With the exception of Vanduzi where 65.3% of farmers apply insecticides, most farmers in other districts do not use any method to control FAW (from 60.8% in Macate to 88.0% in Manica and Sussundenga respectively). Among those applying insecticides, from 65.0% in Manica to 75.0% in Vanduzi have confidence in the efficiency of the insecticides being used against FAW. Most farmers reported an increase in the spread of FAW. The lack of financial resources is reported as the main constraint in the fight against FAW. This study is the first of its nature in the province of Manica and provides valuable information that may support extension services and researchers when designing FAW management options for local smallholder farmers.
["Attack symptoms"]
["Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "CRISPR and Genetic Engineering"]

﻿Impacts of the invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) on benthic invertebrate fauna: a case study from the Baltic Sea
The round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) was first observed in the Baltic Sea in 1990 and has since displayed substantial secondary dispersal, establishing numerous dense populations where they may outcompete native fish and negatively impact prey species. There have been multiple round goby diet studies from both the Baltic Sea and the North American Great Lakes where they are similarly invasive. However, studies that quantify their effects on recipient ecosystems and, specifically, their impacts on the benthic invertebrate macrofauna are rare, particularly from European waters. In this study, we conducted the first before-after study of the potential effects of round goby on benthic invertebrate macrofauna taxa in marine-brackish habitats in Europe, focusing of two sites in the Western Baltic Sea, Denmark. Results were in line with those from the Great Lakes, indicating negative impacts on specific molluscan taxa (e.g. Cardiidae bivalves and Neritidae gastropods, which both showed a fall in detected densities of approximately 98% within the Guldborgsund Strait). In contrast, many other groups appeared to be largely unaffected or even show positive trends following invasion. Round goby gut content data were available at one of our study sites from the period immediately after the invasion. These data confirmed that round goby had in fact been preying on the subset of taxa displaying negative trends.
["Anthropogenic change"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Diversity of alien roadside herbs along an elevational gradient in western Mexico
Growing numbers of alien plant species threaten natural ecosystems worldwide. Mexico, as a megadiverse country, has lower numbers of alien species than other regions in America. However, there is a lack of information on the factors that determine the diversity patterns of alien species and their relative importance in the vegetation. The diversity of alien roadside herbs was analysed along an elevational gradient in western Mexico, including their relationship with environmental factors. Three hundred and seventeen herbaceous species were found in 37 sampling sites; 10% were aliens. The proportion of alien species in the ruderal herbaceous communities was lower than the average for this vegetation type in the country. Absolute species richness of natives was significantly and positively correlated with elevation. Absolute species richness of aliens was not significantly correlated with elevation, still; higher values were found at lower elevations. Generalised linear models for relative species richness and relative abundance of aliens with elevation had positive estimates near 0, which, though statistically significant, indicated a weak relationship. Other environmental co-factors, such as the distance to roads and highways, climatic variables, and disturbance indicators, were included in a random forest model. No clear correlation patterns were found. This seemingly random distribution of alien herbaceous plants in the region might be caused by the relatively recent introduction of most of the species. They have not yet had time to expand their distribution to their potential maximum. The early stage of the naturalisation process allows us to minimise the further spread of some species with targeted management and prevent them from becoming invasive.
["Environmental variables"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Competitive ability of native and alien plants: effects of residence time and invasion status
Competition is commonly thought to underlie the impact of plant invasions. However, competitive effects of aliens and competitive response of natives may also change over time. Indeed, as with time, the novelty of an invader decreases, the accumulated eco-evolutionary experience of resident species may eventually limit invasion success. We aimed to gain insights on whether directional changes in biotic interactions over time or more general differences between natives and aliens, for instance, resulting from an introduction bias, are relevant in determining competitive ability. We conducted a pairwise competition experiment in a target-neighbour design, using 47 Asteraceae species with residence times between 8 years-12,000 years in Germany. We first tested whether there are differences in performance in intraspecific competition amongst invasion status groups, that is casual and established neophytes, archaeophytes or native species. We then evaluated whether competitive response and effects depend on residence time or invasion status. Lastly, we assessed whether competitive effects influence range sizes. We found only limited evidence that native target species tolerate neighbours with longer potential co-existence times better, whereas differences in competitive ability were mostly better explained by invasion status than residence time. Although casual neophytes produced most biomass in intraspecific competition, they had the weakest per-capita competitive effects on natives. Notably, we did not find differences between established neophytes and natives, both of which ranked highest in interspecific competitive ability. This lack of differences might be explained by a biased selection of highly invasive or rare native species in previous studies or because invasion success may result from mechanisms other than interspecific competitive superiority. Accordingly, interspecific per-capita competitive effects did not influence range sizes. Further studies across a broader range of environmental conditions, involving other biotic interactions that indirectly influence plant-plant interactions, may clarify when eco-evolutionary adaptations to new invaders are a relevant mechanism.
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Climate change and micro-topography are facilitating the mountain invasion by a non-native perennial plant species
Mountainous areas and their endemic plant diversity are threatened by global climate change and invasive species. Mountain plant invasions have historically been minimal, however, climate change and increased anthropogenic activity (e.g. roads and vehicles) are amplifying invasion pressure. We assessed plant performance (stem density and fruit production) of the invasive non-native forb Linaria dalmatica along three mountain roads, over an eight-year period (2008–2015) in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE), USA. We evaluated how L. dalmatica performed in response to elevation, changed over time, responded to climate and how the climate of our sites has changed, and compared elevation, climate, micro-topography (slope aspect and angle), and fruit production among sites with differing temporal trends. Linaria dalmatica stem density and fruit production increased with elevation and demonstrated two temporal groups, those populations where stem densities shrank and those that remained stable or grew over time. Stem density demonstrated a hump-shaped response to summer mean temperature, while fruit production decreased with summer mean maximum temperature and showed a hump-shaped response to winter precipitation. Analysis of both short and long-term climate data from our sites, demonstrated that summer temperatures have been increasing and winters getting wetter. The shrinking population group had a lower mean elevation, hotter summer temperatures, drier winters, had plots that differed in slope aspect and angle from the stable/growing group, and produced less fruit. Regional climate projections predict that the observed climate trends will continue, which will likely benefit L. dalmatica populations at higher elevations. We conclude that L. dalmatica may persist at lower elevations where it poses little invasive threat, and its invasion into the mountains will continue along roadways, expanding into higher elevations of the GYE.
["Alien Plant Invasion"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Urban host plant utilisation by the invasive Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae) in northern Utah
The invasive and highly polyphagous brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål), is a severe agricultural and urban nuisance pest in North America. Since its initial invasion into Utah in 2012, H. halys has become well established in urban and suburban locations along the western foothills of the Wasatch Front in northern Utah. Bordering the Great Basin Desert, this area is unique from other North American locations with H. halys due to its high elevation (> 1200 m), aridity (30-year mean RH = 53.1%; dew point = -1.9 °C) and extreme temperatures (the 30-year mean minimum and maximum in January and July in Salt Lake City range from -3.1 to 3.6 °C and 20.3 to 32.4 °C, respectively). To document which plant species harbour H. halys, surveys were conducted in 17 urban/suburban sites in four counties during 2017 and 2018. Halyomorpha halys was more abundant in Salt Lake and Utah counties than in the more northern counties of Davis and Weber and was found on 53 plant species, nine of which hosted two or more developmental stages in both years. The majority of hosts were in the families Fabaceae, Rosaceae and Sapindaceae. Northern catalpa, Catalpa speciosa (Warder), was the most consistent host, supporting a majority of H. halys detections in all life stages; thus we identify it as a sentinel host. Twenty-nine species were novel hosts for H. halys in North America; of these, Acer ginnala Maxim, Populus tremuloides Michx., Prunus armeniaca × domestica ‘Flavor King’ and Prunus virginiana ‘Schubert’ were detected with two or more life stages of H. halys in both years. Peak populations of H. halys occurred from mid-June to mid-September. We describe H. halys plant utilisation by life stage and seasonal period to aid future detection and management of this invasive insect in the greater Intermountain West region.
["Brown marmorated stink bug"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Turfgrass Adaptation and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Invasive plant benefits a native plant through plant-soil feedback but remains the superior competitor
Plant soil feedback (PSF) occurs when a plant modifies soil biotic properties and those changes in turn influence plant growth, survival or reproduction. These feedback effects are not well understood as mechanisms for invasive plant species. Eragrostis lehmanniana is an invasive species that has extensively colonized the southwest US. To address how PSFs may affect E. lehmanniana invasion and native Bouteloua gracilis growth, soil inoculant from four sites of known invasion age at the Appleton-Whittell Audubon Research Ranch in Sonoita, AZ were used in a PSF greenhouse study, incorporating a replacement series design. The purpose of this research was to evaluate PSF conspecific and heterospecific effects and competition outcomes between the invasive E. lehmanniana and a native forage grass, Bouteloua gracilis. Eragrostis lehmanniana PSFs were beneficial to B. gracilis if developed in previously invaded soil. Plant-soil feedback contributed to competitive suppression of B. gracilis only in the highest ratio of E. lehmanniana to B. gracilis. Plant-soil feedback did not provide an advantage to E. lehmanniana in competitive interactions with B. gracilis at low competition levels but were advantageous to E. lehmanniana at the highest competition ratio, indicating a possible density-dependent effect. Despite being beneficial to B. gracilis under many conditions, E. lehmanniana was the superior competitor.
["Below-ground interactions"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Invasive ants reduce nesting success of an endangered Hawaiian yellow-faced bee, Hylaeus anthracinus
Hawaii has a single group of native bees belonging to the genus Hylaeus (Hymenoptera: Colletidae) and known collectively as Hawaiian yellow-faced bees. The majority of the 63 species have experienced significant declines in range and population. In 2016, seven species received federal protection under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Competitors and predators, such as invasive bees, wasps and ants, are thought to be important drivers of range reductions and population declines, especially at lower elevations where more non-native species occur. We evaluated the effects of invasive ants on nesting Hylaeus anthracinus using artificial nest blocks that allowed us to track nest construction and development. The blocks were placed in pairs at 22 points encompassing three sites on the north and east sides of Oahu. One block in each pair was treated with a sticky barrier to prevent access by ants, while the other block remained untreated. From December 2015 to December 2016, we monitored 961 individual nests in the blocks. Seventy percent of nests in control blocks were invaded by ants. Nests in treated blocks were more likely to produce at least one adult than nests in untreated blocks (38% vs. 14%, respectively). In untreated blocks, ants were the most common cause of nest mortality followed by lack of development, displacement (primarily by the competitor Pachodynerus nasidens) and presumed pathogens. The invasive ant, Ochetellus glaber was the only observed nest predator, although the big-headed ant, Pheidole megacephala was also present. Hylaeus anthracinus inhabits coastal strand habitat which occurs in a narrow band just above the high tide line. Nests at one site were destroyed due to a high wave event, highlighting this species’ vulnerability to sea level rise. Additionally, no adult bees or nests were observed at the points where yellow crazy ants, Anoplolepis gracilipes were established. An increased understanding of the factors limiting Hawaii’s yellow-faced bees will provide information for future conservation efforts that may include landscape-scale ant control, habitat restoration and translocations.
["Anoplolepis gracilipes"]

Rapid recolonisation of feral cats following intensive culling in a semi-isolated context
Invasive feral cats threaten biodiversity at a global scale. Mitigating feral cat impacts and reducing their populations has therefore become a global conservation priority, especially on islands housing high endemic biodiversity. The New Caledonian archipelago is a biodiversity hotspot showing outstanding terrestrial species richness and endemism. Feral cats prey upon at least 44 of its native vertebrate species, 20 of which are IUCN Red-listed threatened species. To test the feasibility and efficiency of culling, intensive culling was conducted in a peninsula of New Caledonia (25.6 km²) identified as a priority site for feral cat management. Live-trapping over 38 days on a 10.6 km² area extirpated 36 adult cats, an estimated 44% of the population. However, three months after culling, all indicators derived from camera-trapping (e.g., abundance, minimum number of individuals and densities) suggest a return to pre-culling levels. Compensatory immigration appears to explain this unexpectedly rapid population recovery in a semi-isolated context. Since culling success does not guarantee a long-term effect, complementary methods like fencing and innovative automated traps need to be used, in accordance with predation thresholds identified through modelling, to preserve island biodiversity. Testing general assumptions on cat management, this article contributes important insights into a challenging conservation issue for islands and biodiversity hotspots worldwide.
["Camera trap monitoring"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Is biocontrol efficacy rather driven by the plant or the antagonist genotypes? A conceptual bioassay approach
In the new range, invasive species lack their specialist co-evolved natural enemies, which then might be used as biocontrol agents. Populations of both a plant invader in the introduced range and its potential biocontrol agents in the native range may be genetically differentiated among geographically distinct regions. This, in turn, is expected to affect the outcome of their interaction when brought together, and by this the efficacy of the control. It further raises the question, is the outcome of such interactions mainly driven by the genotype of the plant invader (some plant genotypes being more resistant/tolerant to most of the antagonist genotypes), or by the antagonist genotype (some antagonist genotypes being more effective against most of the plant genotypes)? This is important for biocontrol management, as only the latter is expected to result in more effective control, when introducing the right biocontrol agent genotypes. In a third scenario, where the outcome of the interaction is driven by a specific plant by antagonist genotype interactions, an effective control will need the introduction of carefully selected multiple antagonist genotypes. Here, we challenged in a complete factorial design 11 plant genotypes (mainly half-siblings) of the invasive Ambrosia artemisiifolia with larvae of eight genotypes (full-siblings) of the leaf beetle Ophraella communa, a potential biocontrol insect, and assessed larval and adult performance and leaf consumption as proxies of their expected impact on the efficacy of biological control. Both species were collected from several locations from their native (USA) and introduced ranges (Europe and China). In summary, we found O. communa genotype to be the main driver of this interaction, indicating the potential for at least short-term control efficacy when introducing the best beetle genotypes. Besides the importance of investigating the genetic structure both among and within populations of the plant invader and the biocontrol agent during the pre-release phase of a biocontrol program, we advocate integrating such bioassays, as this will give a first indication of the probability for an – at least – short- to mid-term efficacy when introducing a potential biocontrol agent, and on where to find the most efficient agent genotypes.
["Ambrosia artemisiifolia"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Combining live and lethal trapping to inform the management of alien invasive rodent populations in a tropical montane forest
On large inhabited islands where complete eradication of alien invasive rodents through the use of poison delivery is often not practical or acceptable, mechanical trapping may represent the only viable option to reduce their impact in areas of high biodiversity value. However, the feasibility of sustained rodent control by trapping remains uncertain under realistic operational constraints. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of non-toxic rat control strategies through a combination of lethal and live-trapping experiments, and scenario modelling, using the example of a remote montane rainforest of New Caledonia. Rat densities, estimated with spatially-explicit capture-recapture models, fluctuated seasonally (9.5–33.6 ind.ha-1). Capture probability (.01–.25) and home range sizes (HR95, .23–.75 ha) varied greatly according to trapping session, age class, sex and species. Controlling rats through the use of lethal trapping allowed maintaining rat densities at ca. 8 ind.ha-1 over a seven-month period in a 5.5-ha montane forest. Simulation models based on field parameter estimates over a 200-ha pilot management area indicated that without any financial and social constraints, trapping grids with the finest mesh sizes achieved cumulative capture probabilities > .90 after 15 trapping days, but were difficult to implement and sustain with the local workforce. We evaluated the costs and effectiveness of alternative trapping strategies taking into account the prevailing set of local constraints, and identified those that were likely to be successful. Scenario modelling, informed by trapping experiments, is a flexible tool for informing the design of sustainable control programs of island-invasive rodent populations, under idiosyncratic local circumstances.
["Invasive species"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Changes in assemblages of native and alien plants in perennial plantations: prairie species stabilize the community composition
Ornamental plantations are characteristic of a wide range of man-made habitats such as gardens, parks or urban spaces. Nowadays, low-maintenance perennial beds are becoming popular in horticulture and urban planning. Due to low levels of management and good records of initial plantation, perennial beds are suitable for studying vegetation processes such as competition amongst garden ornamentals and succession. We studied perennial flowerbeds in the Czech Republic that had a known initial composition at the time of establishment in 2006–2010 and we compared this with their state in 2016. We aimed to assess (i) how planted ornamental assemblages changed during 10 years of succession, and (ii) whether initial assemblage composition determined the pattern of change. We observed a decrease in biodiversity from initial plantation to the recent state across all flowerbeds in the experimental garden. In terms of diversity and stability, species-rich assemblages, mostly composed of taxa native to prairies, were the most stable. The most successful taxa (i.e. reaching high abundances with good persistence) originated from North American and Mediterranean regions.
["Artificial habitats"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

A priority-setting scheme for the management of invasive non-native species in protected areas
Invasion by non-native species is one of the major threats to the conservation of biodiversity and to the provision of ecosystem services by protected areas. Invasive species often co-occur in protected areas, represented by sparse, isolated individuals or populations in different stages in the process of invasion. Species invasiveness, habitat invasibility and impact also differ between ecosystems, so the risk of invasion varies. Besides, prioritization is required due to constraints on time, financial and other resources. Priority-setting is therefore key to help protected area managers invest efforts on biological invasions that offer the best chances of producing large-scale positive results at the lowest cost possible. A priority-setting scheme for the control of invasive non-native species in natural areas is presented in this paper. The scheme, based on field observations of species occurrences, was applied to the Itatiaia National Park (Brazil). Priorities are calculated from a combination of three criteria attributed to each occurrence: species risk of invasion considering local ecosystems, invasion stage, and species frequency. Data collected in the field in the Itatiaia National Park were used to calculate priorities for 50 non-native species (six animals and 44 plants) in four locations in the Park. The highest priorities were attributed to species of high risk in an early stage of invasion occurring in one site, whereas a few widespread species of low risk were given lower priority. The scheme has proven functional for setting priorities for the control of non-native species in the Itatiaia National Park and in many other protected areas in Brazil.
["Invasion risk"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Conservation, Biodiversity, and Resource Management", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Germination of the invasive legume Lupinus polyphyllus depends on cutting date and seed morphology
In semi-natural grasslands, mowing leads to the dispersal of species that have viable seeds at the right time. For invasive plant species in grasslands, dispersal by mowing should be avoided, and information on the effect of cutting date on the germination of invasive species is needed. We investigated the germination of seeds of the invasive legume Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl. depending on the cutting date. We measured seed traits associated with successful germination that can be assessed by managers for an improved timing of control measures. To this end, we sampled seeds of L. polyphyllus on six cutting dates and analyzed the germination of these seeds in climate chambers and under ambient weather conditions. We collected information on seed morphology (color/size/hardseededness) for each cutting date to identify seed traits associated with successful germination. Observed germination patterns were highly asynchronous and differed between seeds cut at different dates. Seeds cut early, being green and soft, tended to germinate in autumn. Seeds cut late, being dark and hard, were more prone to germinate the following spring, after winter stratification. This allows the species to utilize germination niches throughout the year, thus indicating a bet-hedging strategy. Seed color and the percentage of hard seeds were good predictors of germination percentage, but not of mean germination time and synchrony. Managers should prevent the species producing black and hard seeds, while cutting plants carrying green and soft seeds is less problematic. Furthermore, germination patterns differed between climate chambers and the common garden, mainly because germination of dormant seeds was lower in climate chambers. More germination experiments under ambient weather conditions should be carried out, as they can give information on the germination dynamics of invasive species.
["dormancy"]
["Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Seed Germination and Physiology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Camellia shangshii (Theaceae), a new species endemic to danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China
Camellia shangshii, a new species discovered in the danxia landscape of Danxiashan Mountain, Guangdong Province, China, is formally described and illustrated here. Morphologically, C. shangshii is similar to C. grijsii but can be distinguished by its petals connate at the base, smaller leaves, and fewer bracteoles and sepals. Phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast genomes indicated that C. shangshii is a sister species to C. grijsii. By integrating morphological and molecular data, we validate the recognition of C. shangshii as a new species of C. sect. Paracamellia.
["Camellia"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

Impatiens longcanggouensis (Balsaminaceae): a new species from Sichuan, China
Impatiens longcanggouensis Q.Luo (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Yingjing County, Sichuan Province, China, is described and illustrated. Its morphology, including pollen and seed characters observed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), is documented in detail. The new species is morphologically similar to I. recurvicornis, but is readily distinguished by the following combination of characters: leaf margin shallowly arcuate-serrate (vs. serrulate); abaxial leaf surface usually purplish-red (vs. pale green); inflorescence commonly two-flowered (vs. one-flowered); bracts lanceolate, 2–2.5 mm long (vs. ovate, 3–4 mm long); flowers 1.2–1.8 cm long (vs. 3–4 cm long); dorsal petal 6–8 mm in diameter, with two erect, stout rostella along the abaxial mid-vein (vs. dorsal petal ca. 13 mm in diameter with a beaked apex); lower sepal narrowly funnel-form with a spreading mouth (vs. navicular with an oblique mouth); and capsule clavate (vs. linear).
["Balsaminaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Revision of Amana yunjuensis (Liliaceae) based on morphological and molecular evidence: synonym of Amana anhuiensis
Based on the integrated morphological and molecular evidence, Amana yunjuensis, originally described from Mt. Yunju in Jiangxi province, is demonstrated not essentially different from A. anhuiensis. Indistinguishable diagnostic characters, nested phylogenomic relationships, and no genetic distinctiveness of population genomic structure all indicate that A. yunjuensis does not represent an independent evolutionary lineage. Accordingly, A. yunjuensis should be treated as a taxonomic synonymy of A. anhuiensis.
["Amana anhuiensis"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

Systematic history and updated generic key of the tribe Spathicarpeae (Aroideae, Araceae)
The Neotropical tribe Spathicarpeae (Araceae, Aroideae) comprises 14 genera distributed from southern Mexico to Uruguay. Despite its complex taxonomic history, the tribe lacks a comprehensive historical synthesis that could support future phylogenetic and taxonomic studies. Herein we provide a historical review of the classification of Spathicarpeae based on detailed analysis of the pertinent literature, as well as the examination of specimens preserved in many herbaria. A generic identification key and taxonomic notes on various taxa are also presented. This study aims to serve as a framework for forthcoming phylogenetic analyses and taxonomic revisions within the tribe.
["historical taxonomy"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Impatiens tainingensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from southeastern China
Impatiens tainingensis J.-D.Lin & P.Li, sp. nov., is described and illustrated. It was collected from a moist valley of Mt. Zhuangyuanyan, Fujian Province, in Southeastern China. It resembles Impatiens platysepala Y.L. Chen, I. kuocangshanica (X.F. Jin & F.G. Zhang) X.F. Jin & Y.L. Xu and I. huangyanensis subsp. attenuata X.F. Jin & Z.H. Chen in the gross morphology of their pinkish purple flowers but differs in having smaller lateral sepals, subsaccate-funnel form lower sepals, shorter spurs, and capsules. The molecular phylogeny of Impatiens based on plastome and ITS sequences indicated that I. tainingensis is closely related to I. platysepala and I. wuyiensis J.S. Wang, Y.F. Lu & X.F. Jin, but morphology, phylogeny, and plastome structural variation comparison provide evidence for recognizing it as a distinct species.
["Balsaminaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Arachniodes × tohtomiensis hyb. nov. (Dryopteridaceae) from Japan
This study aims to characterize a hybrid of Arachniodes (Dryopteridaceae), A. × tohtomiensis, for which molecular evidence of its origin and detailed morphological descriptions are lacking. The genome composition of A. × tohtomiensis, clarified based on plastid DNA and MIG-seq analyses, indicates that it is a diploid hybrid of A. exilis and an undetected species. This origin was also supported by phylogenetic, STRUCTURE, principal component, and neighbor-net analyses. Based on these evidences, it is formally described as A. × tohtomiensis Shimura & Hori, hyb. nov. It is morphologically characterized by its yellowish-green laminae and erose-to-ciliate indusia.
["Diploid"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Lycoris × xiui, a new wild nothospecies from Anhui, China, a hybrid between L. longituba and L. sprengeri (Amaryllidaceae)
A new wild nothospecies, Lycoris × xiui S.Y.Zhang, Ying F.Hu & J.W.Shao, from Anhui Province in eastern China, is described and illustrated based on complete chloroplast genome, morphological, and karyotype evidence. This taxon resulted from the hybridization of L. longituba and L. sprengeri and is currently known only from Langya Mountain. Phylogenetic analysis of the chloroplast genome revealed that L. sprengeri served as the maternal parent of all hybrid individuals sequenced. It is characterized by a karyotype of 2n = 19 = 3V + 16I, a perigone tube typically 1.5–3.5 cm long, and flowers usually pink to pale pink (rarely white or pale yellow), with tepal apices sometimes pale blue. These characteristics differ markedly from those of both putative parents; therefore, this study formally names the taxon and provides a detailed morphological description and diagnosis.
["chloroplast genomes"]
["Chemical synthesis and alkaloids", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies"]

Dryopteris ningqiangensis, a new species of Dryopteridaceae from Shaanxi, China
Dryopteris ningqiangensis, a new fern species of Dryopteridaceae from Shaanxi, China, is described and illustrated herein. Morphologically, D. ningqiangensis belongs to the D. varia complex but is characterized by papyraceous laminae and sparsely spreading, blackish-brown scales on the stipe. Phylogenetic analyses show that D. ningqiangensis is of hybrid origin; its maternal parent is probably an undiscovered tetraploid D. bissetiana, and its paternal parent is D. gymnophylla.
["Dryopteris varia complex"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Resolving the taxonomic enigma of Nesocaryum stylosum (Boraginaceae): phylogenetic evidence for its reclassification as Cryptantha stylosa
The classification of Nesocaryum stylosum (Boraginaceae) has remained unresolved for nearly a century. This species is endemic to Isla San Ambrosio, a small island located approximately 900 km due west of the coast of central Chile. Ivan M. Johnston transferred the species from the genus Heliotropium to the monotypic Nesocaryum in 1927 but noted that, despite its quite different and rather unique vegetative, inflorescence, and calyx morphology, its unit fruits (nutlets/eremocarps) resemble those of Cryptantha. Here, we review the morphology and taxonomic history of N. stylosum and provide DNA sequence data that support its placement in Cryptantha, for which we propose the new combination Cryptantha stylosa. Our data also support the placement of this species within the Maritimae clade, a monophyletic group of Cryptantha species that is phylogenetically distinct from the bulk of the genus. We propose an expanded membership of the Maritimae clade comprising up to 19 species: eight species (13 minimum-rank taxa) from North America and 12 species (12 minimum-rank taxa) from South America, including Cryptantha stylosa, with one taxon occurring on both continents. We further review evidence bearing on the biogeographic and evolutionary history of Cryptantha stylosa and its putative closest relatives and identify the need for additional research within the group.
["Chile"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Colocasia sookchaloemiae (Araceae), a new species from northeastern Thailand
Colocasia sookchaloemiae (Araceae) is described from Phu Pha Yol National Park (northeastern Thailand). It is morphologically similar to C. fallax, from which it differs in having seasonal dormancy (vs. evergreen), broader and non-glaucous laminae (vs. narrower and slightly glaucous beneath), a speckled green ovary (vs. mostly green), a convex stigma with a depressed center (vs. 3-lobed), a sparsely hairy sterile interstice (vs. glabrous), and a thicker stipitate appendix (vs. slender, often sessile, or shortly stipitate). A comparative study of living plants, cultivated specimens, and herbarium material (including types) supports its recognition as a distinct species. The new taxon grows on rocky cliffs in dry dipterocarp and mixed deciduous forests at 350–400 m a.s.l., and it is currently known from Mukdahan and Sakon Nakhon provinces. A preliminary IUCN assessment indicates that the species is Data Deficient (DD).
["Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Primate Behavior and Ecology"]

Peperomia kauaiana (Piperaceae), a new alternate-leaved species from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands and notes on two possibly extinct Hawaiian Peperomia
A new species of Peperomia with alternate leaves from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated, with notes on its conservation status, distribution and ecology. We present a dichotomous key to all five Hawaiian Peperomia species with alternate leaves and include notes on two possibly extinct Hawaiian Peperomia species, namely P. degeneri and P. subpetiolata. Peperomia kauaiana sp. nov. differs morphologically from its Hawaiian congeners by its unique combination of diminutive leaves 5–14(–18) mm long, 4–11(–14) mm wide, palmately 5- to 7-nerved, ovate to ovate-orbicular with margins revolute, petioles 2–5 mm long and spikes 11–17(–22) mm long. Plants have been documented in three distinct windward Kaua‘i locations to date, including the southern ridges of Wahiawa, the central ridges of Wai‘ahi and the north-eastern ridges of the Makaleha Mountains. Peperomia kauaiana represents a newly-described wet forest species endemic to the island of Kaua‘i and is currently in need of conservation. Its discovery raises the total number of endemic Hawaiian Peperomia species to 24 and single-island endemic Peperomia on Kaua‘i to three.
["\u2018ala\u2018ala wai nui"]
["Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Ion Channels and Receptors", "Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies"]

Rhododendron mulunense (Ericaceae), a new species from the karst mountains of Guangxi and Guizhou provinces, China
Rhododendron mulunense, a new species of Rhododendron (Ericaceae) within subsect. Maddenia in sect. Rhododendron and endemic to karst areas of Guangxi and Guizhou Province, SW China, is described and illustrated. The new species most closely resembles R. wumingense, particularly in scale density on the abaxial leaf surface and in flower color and shape, but can be readily distinguished by its hairless shoots and leaves, larger tubular-funneled corolla, and longer and thinner white tube flushed with pink. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the threatened status of the new species is assessed as “Endangered, EN C2a(i), D.” We provide detailed documentation of its morphological characteristics, geographical distribution, digitized holotype voucher, and comparative photographs, along with a diagnostic table. An identification key is provided as a primary tool to enable taxonomic discrimination of this species from its congeners.
["Bioactive Natural Diterpenoids Research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ginger and Zingiberaceae research"]

Morphological and molecular studies of Mallomonas species from section Multisetigerae (Chrysophyceae, Synurales) with description of a new species
This research is devoted to the study of Mallomonas species from the section Multisetigerae in a tropical region (Vietnam and the Philippines) using electron microscopy and molecular studies. For the first time, molecular data and phylogenetic relationships for species within this section are presented. Analysis of six algal cultures, based on a combined dataset of SSU rDNA and rbcL genes, as well as the ITS1–5.8S–ITS2 rDNA region, revealed three distinct clades. Notably, these clades did not form a monophyletic grouping. Two of the studied cultures were identified as Mallomonas multisetigera, and another two as M. neoampla. For the remaining clade, we describe a new species, Mallomonas rutabuliformis sp. nov., which combines morphological features of fossil and modern taxa. The study also synthesizes original and literature data on the distribution of the Mallomonas multisetigera morphotype.
["Mallomonas"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

A new species of Echinodorus (Alismatales, Alismataceae) from the Chaco region with a waterlily soul
We describe Echinodorus nenufar, a new species from ephemeral aquatic environments in the dry Chaco region of northern Argentina and western Paraguay. This species is readily distinguished by its unique floral coloration—pale yellow to creamy white petals with a basal yellow blotch—and its floating leaf blades, which are broadly cordate to suborbicular, evoking the morphology of waterlilies (Nymphaeaceae). The species exhibits exceptional phenotypic plasticity, producing linear, ovate, or rounded leaves depending on its developmental stage and hydrological context. It completes its life cycle in temporary ponds and seasonal wetlands, where multiple life stages may coexist simultaneously. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear (ITS, LEAFY) and plastid (rpl22–rps19) markers confirm the distinctiveness of E. nenufar within the E. grandiflorus complex. We also introduce a novel protocol for preserving delicate aquatic plant structures for herbarium curation. Due to its aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of cultivation, E. nenufar might become a valuable ornamental species.
["Alismataceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Mallomonas imperatoria (Chrysophyceae, Synurales)—a new taxon from the tropics
This study investigates the Mallomonas adamas species complex in a tropical region using electron microscopy and molecular phylogeny. Analysis of four algal cultures from Vietnam, supplemented by data from two cultures from Europe and one from Australia, all belonging to the M. adamas morphotype, revealed two distinct clades in phylogenetic trees based on SSU rDNA + rbcL cpDNA and ITS1–5.8S–ITS2 rDNA sequences. Based on these results, a new species, Mallomonas imperatoria sp. nov., is described. Mallomonas imperatoria was found in 22 localities across nine provinces in Vietnam and is also known from Malaysia. This species generally prefers acidic water bodies, including those that are humic-stained, with low mineralization. Thus, findings of this taxon are not very frequent, but it cannot be classified as rare in the tropical region.
["Electron microscopy"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Columnea rubromarginata (Gesneriaceae), a new species from the western Andean slopes of Colombia and Ecuador
Field expeditions to the western Andean slopes of Colombia and ongoing herbarium research resulted in the discovery of a new species of Columnea (Gesneriaceae). Columnea rubromarginata J.L.Clark & Clavijo, sp. nov. is described from the Chocó Biogeographic Region in the premontane wet forests of Esmeraldas in northern Ecuador and the departments of Chocó and Valle del Cauca in Colombia. The new species is vegetatively remarkable for the presence of a rarely observed broad dark red submarginal band on the abaxial leaf surface. Based on International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines, a preliminary conservation status of Vulnerable (VU) is recommended for C. rubromarginata.
["Choc\u00f3 Biogeographic Region"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

A new dioecious bush tomato, Solanum nectarifolium (Solanaceae), from the northern Tanami Desert, Northern Territory, Australia, with reassessment of S. ossicruentum and a change in the circumscription of S. dioicum
A new species of functionally dioecious bush tomato from the “Solanum dioicum + S. echinatum group” of Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum is described. Solanum nectarifolium Martine & Brennan, sp. nov., is a member of the taxonomically challenging Solanum dioicum W.Fitzg. species complex in Australia and differs from other species in the group by the presence of prominent and conspicuous extrafloral nectaries on the abaxial leaf surfaces, a tinge of purple on the new growth and young fruiting calyces, and curved prickles on young stems. Although fairly well represented in herbarium collections, this new taxon has historically been treated as a part of S. dioicum and more recently as a part of S. ossicruentum Martine & J.Cantley due to shared vegetative characters, particularly a silvery-blue aspect. Symon’s “Group three” or “Tanami form” of S. dioicum is thus now treated as two species: S. nectarifolium (with prominent nectaries, a deeply bifid stigma, and an exposed berry at maturity) and S. ossicruentum (lacking visible nectaries and possessing a slightly lobed and nearly linear stigma, plus a berry fully enclosed in the calyx at maturity). While extrafloral nectar production has been documented in Solanum, S. nectarifolium is the first known example in the genus with nectaries that are consistently visible to the naked eye. This new species brings the number of functionally dioecious (and morphologically androdioecious) Solanum species in Australia to 15. We also provide an updated distribution for S. ossicruentum and, in light of our findings, reassess the identity of specimens associated with the type series for S. dioicum.
["Ant\u2013plant mutualism"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

A revision of the Mallomonas guttata species complex (Synurales, Chrysophyceae) based on morphological and molecular criteria
Mallomonas guttata species complex was investigated in a tropical region using electron microscopy and molecular phylogeny. A study of six algal cultures belonging to the M. guttata morphotype revealed two main clades based on two datasets (SSU rDNA+rbcL cpDNA, and ITS rDNA). This work establishes the phylogenetic position of M. guttata for the first time. We propose the new species, M. monilifera sp. nov., for organisms from the second clade, which were distinguished by the presence of a rim around the pits located on the shield on their scales and showed considerable genetic distances from the M. guttata clade. Within this new species, the strains formed two subclades, for which we propose two subspecies. Scales of the new species were also found in several water bodies on Mindanao Island (Philippines).
["Mallomonas"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Diversity of silica-scaled chrysophytes (Chrysophyceae) from Mindanao Island (Philippines) with the description of Mallomonas pseudopustula sp. nov.
This study presents the first comprehensive investigation of chrysophytes from the Philippines. The flora of silica-scaled chrysophytes from freshwaters of Mindanao Island has been studied by means of scanning and transmission electron microscopy. A total of thirty-six taxa were recorded, including three belonging to Paraphysomonas, two to Spiniferomonas, one to Lepidochromonas, twenty-nine to Mallomonas and one to Synura. A new species, Mallomonas pseudopustula sp. nov., was discovered and described. Several unidentified Mallomonas taxa were also recorded. The flora of silica-scaled chrysophytes of the Mindanao Island is similar to the flora of neighbouring countries — Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia.
["Chrysophyceae"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Infections and bacterial resistance", "Bacteriophages and microbial interactions"]

Sedum qingyuanense (Crassulaceae), a new species from Qingyuan, Guangdong, China
This study describes a new species of Sedum (Crassulaceae), Sedum qingyuanense sp. nov. discovered in Qingyuan City, Guangdong Province, China. Morphologically, S. qingyuanense resembles S. alfredii and S. emarginatum. The new species may have previously been misidentified as S. alfredii. However, the new species can be readily distinguished from S. alfredii by its creeping sterile stems, opposite leaves, emarginate leaf apices, and smaller sepals. Compared to S. emarginatum, it is differentiated by its creeping sterile stems, smaller sepals, and conspicuous pseudopetioles. Phylogenetic analysis based on the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region revealed that the new species forms a sister clade to S. emarginatum within Sedum sect. Sedum, supported by moderate to strong bootstrap support (> 80%). Integrating both morphological evidence and the phylogenetic tree, we establish it as an independent lineage.
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Morphology and molecular phylogeny of Mayamaea densestriata sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae), a new terrestrial species from Henan Province, China
A new terrestrial diatom species, Mayamaea densestriata sp. nov., is described from moist agricultural soil in Henan Province, China. Morphologically, it exhibits the typical diagnostic features of the genus Mayamaea, including small, elliptical to linear-elliptical valves, areolae externally occluded with hymenes, uniseriate radiate striae, and a distinct sternum. M. densestriata closely resembles six congeners, including M. atomus, M. terrestris, M. fossalis, M. vietnamica, M. arida, and M. permitis, but can be clearly distinguished by its lanceolate axial area fusing with a transversely expanded central area, higher stria density, and a notably greater number of areolae per stria. Phylogenetic analyses based on concatenated SSU rDNA and rbcL gene sequences strongly support the placement of M. densestriata within the genus Mayamaea. Furthermore, the overall topology also confirms the monophyly of Mayamaea, which is resolved as sister to a clade encompassing species of Pinnularia and Caloneis, thereby supporting its affiliation within the family Pinnulariaceae.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Molecular and morphological insights into Phaeoceros himalayensis (Notothyladaceae) and related species: evidence for two new species from Thailand
The hornwort genus Phaeoceros is morphologically diverse, particularly in sporophyte and spore characters. Among its members, P. himalayensis and P. kashyapii, two previously known species from the Himalayan region, are distinct in their stalked tuber thalli, dark brown sporophytes with valves apically adherent at maturity, and vermiculate spores with or without hump-like projections or verrucae on the distal face. In this study, we combine detailed morphological and molecular evidence to investigate species boundaries within the group of species possessing these traits, comprising P. himalayensis, P. kashyapii, and related taxa. Within Phaeoceros, two fully supported clades were recovered, here recognized as subgenus Phaeoceros and subgenus Himalayanus, subgen. nov. Molecular and morphological data also support the recognition of two new species, P. aequatus and P. stenothallus, both from northern Thailand. The new species are distinguished by unique spore ornamentation together with the production of tubers. These findings support the ancient evolutionary divergence of the Himalayan Phaeoceros lineage and underscore the taxonomic significance of spore features and tuber formation. This study adds valuable information to our knowledge of hornwort diversity and evolution, providing a foundation for future systematic and evolutionary studies.
["Anthocerotophyta"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Middletonia tiepiana (Gesneriaceae), a new species from southern Vietnam
A new species of Middletonia (Gesneriaceae), M. tiepiana, is described from Nui Chua National Park in southern Vietnam. This is the third species of the genus recorded in Vietnam, and notably, the second Vietnamese species with a blue corolla – a trait previously observed in M. evrardii (Vietnam), M. changjiangensis, and M. hainanensis (both from China). Middletonia tiepiana differs from the Vietnamese species by its leaves lacking interpetiolar ridges, shorter peduncles, linear and minute bracts, free glandular anthers dehiscing by apical pores, and from the Chinese congeners by its growth form, distinct leaf morphology, length of peduncles, deep blue-violet corolla with a white base, and absence of staminodes. It grows in sandstone-based soils within coastal semi-arid forest, a habitat not previously associated with the genus. A detailed morphological description, illustration, notes on distribution, ecology, and phenology, and a provisional conservation assessment are provided. A key to all known Middletonia species is also included.
["Blue-violet flowers"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Taxonomy, morphology and cytology of Micranthes virginiensis (Michaux) Small (Saxifragales, Saxifragaceae), new chromosome counts for Micranthes and description of a new Micranthes species from the south-eastern USA
Micranthes virginiensis (Saxifragaceae) is an herbaceous, flowering plant species native to eastern North America with a range extending from the Gulf of Mexico into Canada. This broad range, known from previous studies to contain individuals with varying chromosome numbers and morphological variation outside of the current formal description, indicates the need for a re-examination of the taxonomy of this species. Some populations in south-eastern Appalachia display intermediate traits between M. virginiensis and the peripatric congener M. careyana and have unresolved phylogenetic placement, raising the possibility of hybridisation. This study explored hypotheses of hybridisation and undescribed taxa within M. virginiensis, based on morphometric and chromosome data collected from samples across Eastern North America. Floral, fruit and leaf measurements were analysed to investigate morphological variation across the species’ range. Chromosome counts from south-eastern U.S.A. congener populations of M. careyana, M. palmeri and M. petiolaris all showed diploidy (2n = 20), representing the first known chromosome counts for these species. Tetraploidy and unique floral morphology in two populations of the Blue Ridge Escarpment of SC, where the distribution of M. virginiensis and M. careyana abut, indicate an undescribed species, possibly of hybrid origin. Other tetraploid populations in the south-eastern USA showed no morphological differences from diploid M. virginiensis, suggesting autopolyploidy. In addition, we document a trend of decreased reproductive investment with increasing elevation within M. virginiensis. Overall, the taxonomic boundaries across the broad range of M. virginiensis proved intact, aside from the escarpment tetraploid species. Here, we describe the new escarpment species, Micranthes scopularum Hall, Lanning & Mathews and provide a complete list of synonyms of M. virginiensis, in which we designate two lectotypes and one neotype.
["Blue Ridge Escarpment"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Mycetia saxicola (Rubiaceae), a new species with cauliflory from limestone areas in Yunnan, China, supported by morphological and molecular data
A new species exhibiting cauliflory within the tribe Argostemmateae (Rubiaceae), Mycetia saxicola Z.Q. Song & D.X. Xu, is described and illustrated from limestone areas in Yunnan, China. Our comprehensive study, which includes literature reviews, field and herbarium morphological observations, and molecular phylogenetic analyses of five plastid DNA regions, reveals that M. saxicola is closely related to M. fangii K.J. Yan & Z.Q. Song. Morphologically, both species share several key features, including cauliflorous inflorescences, few flowers per inflorescence, eglandular bracts and bracteoles, short corolla tubes, and calyx lobes much shorter than the corolla. However, M. saxicola can be readily distinguished from M. fangii by its limestone habitat, subcoriaceous leaves, linear stipules, very short pedicels and peduncles, and a calyx bearing two sessile, deciduous glands on each sinus. Additionally, this paper provides illustrations of six other relevant species of Mycetia to facilitate further taxonomic comparisons.
["Argostemmateae"]

Viola yuelingensis (Violaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
This study describes and illustrates Viola yuelingensis Y.S.Chen & Ju H.Huang, a new species distributed in Guangxi, China. The species is morphologically most similar to Viola yunnanensis, but can be distinguished by the following characteristics: prominently raised reddish-brown midveins on both leaf surfaces with inconspicuous lateral veins on the adaxial side (vs. wrinkled adaxial surface with depressed and often green midvein), and lower petal white or pale purple toward the base, pale purple toward the apex with purple stripes (vs. lower petal white with purple stripes). The species is distinct from V. changii by its leaf blades with serrate margins (vs. obtusely serrate to subentire), and an abaxial surface that is grayish-green (vs. deep purple). Color photographs, a distribution map, and a comparison with the most similar species are provided.
["Biochemical and Structural Characterization", "Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

A new species of Clematis sect. Tubulosae (Ranunculaceae) from Zhejiang, East China
Clematis liana sp. nov., a new species of Ranunculaceae from Zhejiang and Anhui Provinces in eastern China, is described and illustrated. This species exhibits similarities in morphological features to C. urticifolia, with which it has a close evolutionary relationship. It is distinguishable by several discrete features, such as habit, reproductive strategy, morphology of cauline ridges, leaflets, bracts, and flowers, calycine color, number of carpels and stamens, length and indumentum of filaments, size of anthers and pollen grains, etc. The complete plastid genome sequence of C. liana sp. nov. comprises 159,759 bp, organized into a quadripartite structure containing two inverted repeat (IR: 31,084 bp each) regions, a small single copy (SSC: 18,135 bp) region, and a large single copy (LSC: 79,456 bp) region. It contains 136 functional, comprising 92 protein-coding, 36 tRNA and 8 rRNA genes.
["Clematis"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Acronema handeloides, a new species from Jiaozi Mountain, Yunnan Province, China (Apiaceae)
Acronema handeloides, a new species of Apiaceae from Jiaozi Mountain in Yunnan Province, is described and illustrated herein. This species is similar to A. handelii and A. sichuanense but can be distinguished by its 1–2 branches; variable basal leaves; bracts 1 or occasionally present, bracteoles 1–3; subulate calyx teeth; linear-subulate, papillate petal apex; and broadly ovoid. Phylogenetic analyses also support that it is a monophyletic group sister to A. handelii and A. sichuanense. In accordance with the IUCN Red List criteria (2024), the conservation status of A. handeloides is preliminarily assessed as Data Deficient (DD).
["Acronema"]
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Taxonomic status of Orophea yunnanensis (Annonaceae), an endemic plant species in Yunnan, China
This study elucidates the taxonomic affinity of Orophea yunnanensis by considering whether it belongs to Orophea or Alphonsea. Integrating comparative morphological analysis of type and living materials, field investigations, and molecular phylogenetic evidence, we confirm that O. yunnanensis should be transferred to Alphonsea as a distinct species. A new combination Alphonsea yunnanensis (P.T.Li) Y.H.Tan & Bin Yang is proposed. The mature floral morphology and fruits of A. yunnanensis are described for the first time based on wild-collected living specimens and recent herbarium collections. Detailed descriptions, color plates, and geographical distribution, and conservation assessments are provided.
["Alphonsea"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Doronicum micranthum (Asteraceae, Senecioneae): a distinct new species from western Qinling, China
Doronicum micranthum (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a new species from Hui County and Liangdang County in southeastern Gansu Province, China, is described and illustrated. This species is closely related to D. stenoglossum Maxim. and D. conaense Y.L.Chen, with which it shares the following characters: the ray florets are equal to or shorter than the involucre, and the small capitula are arranged in racemes at the stem apex. It differs by having swollen (vs. not swollen) rhizomes, smaller capitula (0.5–1.4 vs. 2–2.5 cm in diameter), and all florets’ achenes that are glabrous and lack a pappus (vs. achenes in all florets puberulent, pappus present, or glabrous and without pappus in ray florets, densely pubescent and bearing a pappus in disk florets).
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Paraphlomis leigongshanensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Paraphlomis leigongshanensis G.B. Jiang & W.H. Yao (Lamiaceae), a new species endemic to Leigong Mountain National Nature Reserve (Guizhou, China), is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it is most similar to P. jiangyongensis, but can easy be distinguished by its lamina shape, calyx teeth shape, and corolla color. A close relationship between the new species and P. gracilis var. lutienensis was revealed by molecular phylogenetic analyses based on ETS and ITS sequences, but they are morphologically distinct from each other. With only three known populations (ca. 200 mature individuals) in subtropical evergreen forests, the new species is assessed as Endangered (EN) under IUCN criteria B2ab(iii); D.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

A new synonym of Mussaenda (Rubiaceae) from Vietnam
Based on examination of type specimens and original literature, it has been determined that Mussaenda recurvata Naiki, Tagane & Yahara and Mussaenda reflexisepala Tao Chen & Duy are conspecific. Therefore, M. reflexisepala is hereby treated as a synonym of M. recurvata. A new Chinese name is proposed for M. recurvata: Juǎn è Yù yè Jīn huā.
["Mussaenda Burm. ex L."]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Argostemma sawmlianae (Rubiaceae, Argostemmateae), a new species from Northeast India under the Indo-Burma Hotspot
Argostemma sawmlianae (Rubiaceae), a new species from Mizoram, Northeast India, within the Indo-Burma hotspot, is described and illustrated. The species is compared with its allied species A. courtallense and A. sarmentosum, from which it differs by a set of distinctive morphological characters that include a pair of larger sessile leaves (11.5–18.5 cm long), longer peduncle (4–6.5 cm long), more flowers per cyme (8–33) and campanulate corolla with falcate lobes, reflexed and prominently rolled backward. The molecular analyses based on matK (cpDNA) and ITS2 (nrDNA) sequences support the morphological evidences confirming A. sawmlianae as a distinct new species. The newly discovered species is provisionally categorized as Critically Endangered (CR) in accordance with the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (IUCN 2024) based on available data.
["Argostemma"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

A new species of Zingiberaceae, Curcuma glandulosa (Subgenus Ecomatae), from Myanmar
A new species, Curcuma glandulosa P.P. Thwe, M.M. Aung & Nob. Tanaka, is described from Taunggyi, southern Shan State, Myanmar. The new species is assignable to Curcuma subgenus Ecomatae, characterized by its epigynous glands, anther spurs, and lack of a conspicuous coma of sterile bracts. Curcuma glandulosa is distinguished by its red leafy stems, white bracts with red stripes, L-shaped anther spurs with densely short glandular hairs throughout, and a prominent anther crest. The leaves develop after blooming.
["Ginger"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Curcumin's Biomedical Applications", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies"]

Polystichum oligodontum (subg. Haplopolystichum, Dryopteridaceae), a new cave fern from Guangxi, China
Polystichum oligodontum (Dryopteridaceae), a new fern species in P. subg. Haplopolystichum from three karst caves in northwest Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. This species is unique in having pinnae with a shallow or nearly free lobe on the acroscopic base and coarsely toothed distal margins. It resembles P. membranifolium and P. kwangtungense in its reflexed and oblong pinnae with an obtuse or rounded apex, but can be easily distinguished by its remote pinnae bearing a lobe at the acroscopic base. The new species also somewhat resembles P. leveillei in the nearly free basal lobe, but differs by its toothed upper pinna margins. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of 56 Polystichum species, based on the rbcL gene, supports the placement of P. oligodontum within P. sect. Sphaenopolystichum, with P. alcicorne as its closest relative. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the new species is assigned to the Critically Endangered (CR) category.
["Cave ferns"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Resolving the taxonomy of Leea trifoliata (Leeaceae, Vitales): Reinstatement and typification
Leea trifoliata M.A.Lawson has long been considered conspecific with L. compactiflora Kurz. Detailed examination of live materials and herbarium specimens suggests that both species are distinct, differing in habit, leaf architecture, and inflorescence and bract morphology. This contribution presents morphological evidence for the reinstatement of L. trifoliata, including its taxonomic description, illustration, distribution maps, notes on habitat, and conservation status assessment using the IUCN criteria. In addition, A neotype was selected for L. compactiflora.
["IUCN"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Astragalus zibaishanensis sp. nov. (Fabaceae), a new species from Shaanxi, China
Astragalus zibaishanensis sp. nov. (Fabaceae) is described and illustrated from Shaanxi, China. This new species is similar to Astragalus monadelphus, A. xitaibaicus and A. neomonodelphus by having yellow petals, pseudomonadelphous androecium, and stipitate legumes, but can be distinguished by its stem 0.9–1.5 mm in diameter; leaflets 5–7, hairy adaxially and abaxially; calyx teeth triangular, ca. 0.5 mm long; standard 17–20 mm long; wings 18–21 mm long; keels 17–20 mm long; pistil glabrous; legume glabrous, with a stipe 10–11 mm long. Astragalus zibaishanensis is unique in Astragalus by having pseudomonadelphous androecium. Phylogenetic analyses confirm that the new species is a member of A. sect. Cenantrum. The nuclear ITS tree shows that A. zibaishanensis forms a clade with A. henryi, A. umbellatus, A. chilienshanensis, A. moellendorffii, A. przewalskii, A. monadelphus, A. xitaibaicus and A. neomonodelphus.
["Fabaceae"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis"]

Two new species of Microlicia (Melastomataceae) from unprotected campo rupestre in the western Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil
Microlicia D.Don (Melastomataceae, Lavoisiereae) is a genus of shrubs and subshrubs comprising nearly 300 species, primarily distributed across nutrient-poor, open habitats in Brazil’s campos rupestres, cerrado, and other montane ecosystems. During botanical surveys in previously unexplored campo rupestre areas in the municipality of Ibitiara (Bahia, Brazil), we discovered two undescribed species, herein named Microlicia integra and Microlicia flavistyla. The campo rupestre of Ibitiara is located at the westernmost limits of the Chapada Diamantina, a region known for its scenic landscapes and high levels of plant endemism. We provide formal descriptions, illustrations, photographs of living specimens, distribution maps, and notes on their taxonomy and conservation status. Our findings highlight the rich yet still insufficiently known floristic diversity of the unprotected campo rupestre areas of western Chapada Diamantina and underscore the urgent need for conservation measures in these fragile ecosystems.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies"]

Balanophora xinfeniae (Balanophoraceae), a new species from Xizang, China
Balanophora xinfeniae C.L.Fu, M.Li & B.Xu, a new species discovered in Xizang, China, is described and illustrated here. Molecular phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons strongly support B. xinfeniae as a new species within the genus Balanophora. The most distinctive characteristic of the new species is its dioecious sexual system, with male flowers having a 3-lobed perianth, opposite leaves with serrated tips, and yellow scapes. Although it shares morphological similarities with B. henryi, B. xinfeniae can be distinguished by its flat spheroid tubers without stellate lenticels, yellow scape, prominently serrated apical leaf margins, and nearly spherical or ovoid-ellipsoid female inflorescences.
["Balanophora xinfeniae"]

Comparisons of insect and pathogen leaf damage on early Eocene Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae) from Patagonia and extant Australasian gum trees
Australian forests and woodlands are dominated by the species-rich (> 700 spp.) genus Eucalyptus L’Hér. (Myrtaceae). Despite this modern-day dominance, the earliest macrofossil evidence of the genus comes not from Australia, but from the early Eocene Laguna del Hunco locality in Argentinean Patagonia, consisting of abundant vegetative and reproductive material. The leaves, assigned to the fossil species Eucalyptus frenguelliana Gandolfo & Zamaloa, record a diverse suite of insect and pathogenic damage that closely matches that observed on 36 extant, rainforest-associated Eucalyptus species. Here, I provide detailed morphological descriptions and photographic documentation of this damage, recorded on 284 E. frenguelliana leaves, together with extensive comparisons to analogous damage observed in extant Eucalyptus herbarium specimens (> 10,000 sheets reviewed). From the fossil material, I describe a diverse suite of 33 insect-mediated and pathogenic damage types (DTs), including twelve types of external feeding interactions, one of piercing-and-sucking marks, five of galls, ten of mines, three of pathogenic traces, and two of oviposition scars. This elevated number of DTs, encompassing a wide range of ecological interactions, indicates that E. frenguelliana was an important ecological resource in ancient Patagonian rainforests. Some of the fossil mines were probably created by micromoths in the families Nepticulidae and Gracillariidae, as well as flies in the family Agromyzidae. However, most of the insect and pathogenic damage observed in the fossils and their corresponding extant analogs was produced by still-unknown culprits, underscoring gaps in our knowledge of Eucalyptus-associated communities and their assembly through evolutionary time.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A nomenclator of Drymaria (Caryophyllaceae)
Drymaria (Caryophyllaceae) is here considered to contain 56 species plus 19 infraspecific taxa, excluding autonyms. In the current study, all effectively published names of Drymaria were compiled, and information about their taxonomy, distribution, and nomenclatural types is provided. In addition, an overview of the taxonomic history of Drymaria is presented. As a result, one neotype, 15 lectotypes, and the type for the genus Mollugophytum are newly designated. Altogether, 188 names were treated, of which 52 are heterotypic and 50 are homotypic synonyms. An additional 10 names were either unresolved or are now considered to belong to other genera. A brief assessment of the distribution of the respective taxa is also provided, including the examination of herbarium specimens and specimen images, which indicates that two regions possess high levels of endemism—Mexico with 20 species and the Andes with 14 species. There are few studies that assess the conservation status of Drymaria species, and only 10 species and two varieties have had IUCN Red List assessments.
["Caryophyllales"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Solanum stellaticalycinum, a new simple-leaved species of the Pteroidea clade from Peru (Potato Clade, Solanum, Solanaceae)
A new species from the montane forests in central Peru belonging to the Pteroidea clade of Solanum is described and illustrated. Solanum stellaticalycinum M.A.Cueva, Treviño & D.Sotomayor, sp. nov. is known only from the Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park and adjacent areas (Prov. Oxapampa, Dept. Pasco, Peru). With simple leaves, it is morphologically similar to S. anceps Ruiz & Pav., a widespread species in South America, and to S. angustialatum Bitter and S. incurvum Ruiz & Pav., both known from the montane forests of northern and central Peru. Solanum stellaticalycinum is distinguished from all these by its purple pedicels and flowers with linear to narrowly triangular calyx lobes, a membranous corolla with lanceolate lobes and ovoid-conical, smooth or slightly rugose fruits. Here we discuss the taxonomic affinities, distribution and conservation status of this new species. We also include a key to all species of Pteroidea with complete distributions at the country level and department level distributions within Peru.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Clematis danxiacola (Ranunculaceae), a new species from the Danxia landform area in Zhejiang Province, China
Clematis danxiacola, a novel species of Ranunculaceae discovered in the Danxia landform area of Zhejiang, China, is described and illustrated herein. This species exhibits morphological similarities to C. terniflora and C. chinensis, but can be distinguished by specific characteristics, including the indumentum of leaflet blades, sepal apex morphology, stamen and pistil quantities, and achene morphology and dimensions. The plastome of C. danxiacola sp. nov. extends 159,506 bp and contains two inverted repeats of 31,040 bp, separated by a large single-copy region of 82,836 bp and a small single-copy region of 18,407 bp. The analysis revealed 136 functional genes, including 92 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that C. danxiacola shares close evolutionary relationship with C. terniflora and C. chinensis.
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Vaccinium bidoupense (Ericaceae), a new species from Vietnam and Laos, with notes on V. petelotii and V. pseudobullatum
Vaccinium bidoupense, a new species of Ericaceae from the Central Highlands of Vietnam and their vicinity in Laos, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to V. petelotii and V. pseudobullatum in its relatively large leaf blades and umbel-like inflorescence but differs in having the following combination of characters: pale red to salmon pink corollas, and longer pedicels, calyx lobes, corolla tubes and stamen filaments. The distinctness of V. bidoupense is further supported by its allopatric distribution relative to both V. petelotii and V. pseudobullatum. The range of morphological variation of V. petelotii and V. pseudobullatum is clarified, and their analytical photographic images are published for the first time. Additionally, the distinction between indeterminate and determinate racemes in Vaccinium is revisited, and the taxonomic history of Vaccinium sect. Calcicolus is summarized.
["Central Highlands of Vietnam"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ginger and Zingiberaceae research"]

Species delimitation in the genus Klebsormidium (Klebsormidiophyceae, Charophyta), including description of Klebsormidium mirabile sp. nov. with high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids
The genus Klebsormidium is a cosmopolitan filamentous alga that belongs to the phylum Charophyta and inhabits a wide range of environments, primarily freshwater, soil, and aerial habitats. Its basal position on the Streptophyta phylogenetic tree, widespread distribution and significant functional role make the genus Klebsormidium an important object for phycological research. To advance the molecular phylogeny of Klebsormidium, we conducted the first comparative evaluation of six species delimitation methods – ASAP (Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning), LocMin (Local Minima), KoT (K over Theta), GMYC (Generalized mixed Yule-coalescent), mlPTP (Poisson Tree Process with Maximum Likelihood), and bPTP (Poisson Tree Process with Bayesian inference) – using rbcL and concatenated ITS2–rbcL fragments. The accuracy of these methods was further validated against molecular, morphological, and ecological data. According to an integrative approach, Klebsormidium mirabile sp. nov. was proposed as a new charophyte species from soil of the Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan. In addition, a study on the fatty acid composition showed that the authentic strain VKM Al-436 of this new species of Klebsormidium is a potential source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic, α-linolenic, and hexadecatrienoic acids.
["Algae"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Algal biology and biofuel production", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

A new nothogenus and nothospecies in the Zygopetalinae (Orchidaceae), with a note on euglossine pollination in the subtribe
Natural hybridization in Neotropical orchids is summarized, and the frequency of nothogenera in the subtribe Zygopetalinae is highlighted. A new nothogenus discovered in Costa Rica, formed by the cross between species of Benzingia and Chondroscaphe, is described, and the new nothospecies ×Benzoscaphe stelleri is described and illustrated. Putative parents, as well as their derivative hybrid, are compared through composite digital plates. Cues are offered about the pollination mechanisms of the putative parents, based on the morphology of the flowers and pollinaria, which possibly led to the formation of the natural cross between different genera.
["Benzingia pollinaria"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Primula xinjingensis (Primulaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
A new species, named Primula xinjingensis, has been described from north-eastern Guizhou, China. It belongs to the sect. Monocarpicae. The species resembles P. pellucida in having efarinose plants, the shape of the leaf blade, and recurved calyx lobes in fruit. However, it differs from P. pellucida by possessing a campanulate calyx, lanceolate calyx lobes, narrowly cuneate-obovate corolla limb lobes, and a style reaching the throat in the pin flowers. It also shares similarities with P. divaricata and P. epilithica in terms of efarinose plants and the shape of the leaf blade. Nevertheless, it is distinct from these two species by the absence of rhizomes, having recurved calyx lobes in fruit, lanceolate calyx lobes, and narrowly cuneate-obovate corolla limb lobes. The new taxon has been assessed as “Data Deficient” (DD) according to the IUCN standards.
["karst flora"]

Indosasa fimbriligulata (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new bamboo species from Guangxi, China
Based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence, we confirmed that some bamboo collections from Guangxi, China, represent a new species of Indosasa. The new species, named I. fimbriligulata, is morphologically similar to I. glabrata but differs by having internodes that are white strigose when young, and hollow without or with a little clastic pith, culm buds triangular, culm leaf sheaths abaxially scattered with tufted brown setae, culm leaf auricles well developed, and culm leaf ligule apex long fimbriate. A detailed description, as well as two color plates of this new species, is also provided.
["Arundinarieae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Bamboo properties and applications"]

Oxytropis jamsranii (Fabaceae, Papilionoideae, Astragaleae), a new species of section Xerobia from Mongolia
The genus Oxytropis L. (Fabaceae) comprises over 600 accepted species, ranking amongst the largest in the family. Nearly 100 Oxytropis taxa have been reported from Mongolia, spanning five subgenera and 20 sections in Mongolia. In this study, a new species, Oxytropis jamsranii Munkht. & Baasanm., from the Ikh Bogd Mountains in Mongolia, is described and illustrated. Based on morphological characteristics, it belongs to the section Xerobia. Although similar to O. leptophylla and O. sobolevskajae within the section, O. jamsranii is clearly distinguished by its indumentum, raceme structure, leaflet number and shape and corolla colour. The first occurrence of O. sobolevskajae — previously known only from the Republic of Tuva of Russia — in the flora of Mongolia is also reported here. Taxonomic nomenclature, morphological descriptions, distribution maps and field photographs for the new species and its two close relatives are provided.
["Flora of Mongolia"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Soil and Environmental Studies"]

Two new species, one new record, and one new synonym of Aeschynanthus (Gesneriaceae) from China
Southwest China is a biodiversity hotspot, with numerous new Gesneriaceae species recently discovered there. Recent reports of new Aeschynanthus taxa and records from western Yunnan and adjacent areas underscore the region’s continued potential for revealing undescribed diversity. Based on field surveys conducted in Yunnan and Xizang, Southwest China, two new species of Aeschynanthus are described: A. succineus Lei Cai & L.W. Lin and A. tongbiguanensis Lei Cai & L.W. Lin. We also report a new national record for China, A. jouyi D.J. Middleton, previously considered endemic to Vietnam. Furthermore, we propose that A. maoi Debta & A. Shenoy should be reduced to synonymy under A. wardii, based on a critical assessment of the literature, field observations of living plants, and examination of herbarium specimens. Descriptions and illustrations of the diagnostic characters are provided for these species, together with information on their types.
["Aeschynanthus"]

Mallotus thinii (Euphorbiaceae), a new species discovered from the coastal areas of the south-central provinces of Vietnam
Mallotus thinii Kim Thanh & V.S.Dang, a new species discovered in coastal areas of the south-central provinces of Vietnam, is described and illustrated here. This species is morphologically most similar to M. leptostachyus Hook.f. and M. peltatus (Geiseler) Müll.Arg. It can be distinguished from other Mallotus species previously known by its habitat on sandy soils close to the beach, shrubby habit, deciduous stipules, oblanceolate leaf blades, two larger extrafloral nectaries near the base or sometimes two to four more along the midrib, presence of a pistillode, and fruits without spines. A detailed description, color photographs, distribution, habitat, preliminary conservation assessment, and phylogenetic analysis are provided. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on matK and ITS nucleotide sequences strongly confirm M. thinii as a distinct new species within Mallotus.
["Botanical inventory"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ginger and Zingiberaceae research"]

A new tree species from seasonally dry tropical forest in southern Ecuador, Spirotheca zapotillana sp. nov. (Malvaceae), resolves a putatively disjunct distribution
A new species of Malvaceae, Spirotheca zapotillana, is described from the Equatorial Pacific region of South America. The species occurs in seasonally dry tropical forests of El Oro and Loja provinces in southern Ecuador. It is characterized by a strictly tree-like habit, elliptical leaflets with acute apices, glandular floral receptacles, glabrous styles, oblong capsules, and reniform seeds. A morphological description of the new species is provided, along with data on its habitat and distribution, an assessment of its conservation status, and an updated key for the genus.
["Bombacoideae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant and animal studies"]

Carex huancabambica (Cyperaceae), a new species from the Peruvian and Ecuadorian Andes
The Huancabamba Depression in Neotropical South America, a natural barrier between the Northern and Central Andes, serves as a refuge for high levels of angiosperm diversity. However, this biodiversity remains understudied, especially in complex and species-rich genera, such as Carex L. (Cyperaceae). This genus is notably underrepresented in taxonomic and systematic research on the Neotropics. In this study, we employed an integrative systematic approach combining molecular and morphological data to elucidate the taxonomic status of several Carex populations from Ecuador and northern Peru, which exhibit morphological affinities with the sect. Porocystis Dumort. (Castanea Clade). We conducted a phylogenetic analysis using two nuclear (ITS and ETS) and one plastid (matK) DNA regions and carried out a detailed morphological comparison with Neotropical relatives within the section. Both phylogenetic and morphological results supported the systematic distinctiveness of the focal populations. As a result, we describe a new species, Carex huancabambica Gonz.Gallego & Jim.Mejías, sp. nov. and provide its taxonomic treatment. This study contributes to disentangling the biodiversity of the genus Carex in the Neotropics.
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Dorobaea linearifolia (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a distinctive new species of the subtropical montane forests of central Peru
Dorobaea linearifolia Montesinos & Pruski (Asteraceae, Senecioneae) is described as a new species from the humid subtropical montane forests of central Peru, specifically from the eastern slopes of the Andes in the Huánuco Region. The species is distinguished by its narrowly linear to very narrowly oblanceolate leaves, solitary terminal capitula, and glabrous habit. Its morphological affinities are briefly discussed in comparison with allied taxa in Dorobaea and related genera, images and a table of main character differences are also added. A preliminary conservation assessment, following IUCN Red List criteria, suggests the species should be considered Endangered (EN) B1ab(iii) due to its restricted distribution and ongoing habitat degradation.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Lysimachia barcae (Primulaceae), a new endemic shrub from Wainiha, Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands
A new endemic species of Lysimachia from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated with notes on its distribution, ecology, conservation status and phylogenetic relationships. A modification to the existing key for Hawaiian Lysimachia is provided. Lysimachia barcae sp. nov., differs from its Hawaiian congeners by its unique combination of mature stems villous to tomentose, petioles 1–3 mm long, leaves ovate, cordate to subcordate or rounded at base, with primary and secondary veins conspicuous, purple-red, raised on abaxial surface, often densely hirsute to pilose and pedicels 35–70 mm long. Only ten mature individuals are known from a single colony along steep, precipitous slopes of Wainiha Valley, Kaua‘i. Lysimachia barcae represents a new Critically Endangered (CR) single-island endemic species and is the focus of concerted conservation efforts to prevent its extinction.
["Discovery"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Taxonomic studies on Sanicula L. (Apiaceae) from China (V): Revision of the Sanicula serrata H. Wolff complex: morphological delimitation from S. potaninii Bobrov, synonymization of allied taxa, and lectotypifications
Based on observations of living plants in the field and examination of herbarium specimens (including type materials), we demonstrate that Sanicula serrata var. serrata (Apiaceae) differs from S. potaninii by having single fruit bearing squamose spines – occasionally tuberculate-spiculate or apically prickly – whereas S. potaninii usually bears three fruits with densely uncinate spines. This morphological distinction is further supported by differences in their biogeographic distributions. In addition, S. tienmuensis, S. elongata, S. tienmuensis var. pauciflora, and S. langaoensis are found to be conspecific with S. serrata, while S. serrata var. uncinata is conspecific with S. potaninii; we therefore reduce these taxa to synonymy accordingly. Lectotypifications are proposed for S. elongata and S. tienmuensis var. pauciflora.
["Carrot family"]
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Carlephyton sajoreciae (Araceae, tribe Arophyteae), a new species from Daraina, Northern Madagascar
Carlephyton sajoreciae is a new species of Araceae from northern Madagascar. It is distinguishable from the similar C. darainense mainly by the purple interior spathe, yellow spadix, 1-androus male flowers, loosely arranged stamens, and short, dark purple styles. A key for identification of the members of the Carlephyton has been provided. Interestingly, C. sajoreciae is the first species documented on humus-rich soils under forest, while other species grow on thin substrates among rocky outcrops. This finding highlights the botanical diversity in Madagascar, reinforcing the importance of conservation efforts in the region.
["Arophyteae"]

Petrocosmea miechangensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
A new species in Gesneriaceae, Petrocosmea miechangensis, is described from southeastern Yunnan, China. This species bears a resemblance to P. sericea in the shape of the adaxial corolla lip and in having very densely appressed hairs on the abaxial leaf blade. However, it can be distinguished by its flowering period, the hairs on the leaf blade, calyx, and filaments, as well as the shape of the filaments. An identification key to P. miechangensis and its related species is presented.
["Didymocarpoideae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Vascular plants of east-central Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada: an annotated checklist of a mid-Arctic flora
Baffin Island in the eastern Canadian Arctic is the largest island in Canada and the fifth largest in the world. East-central Baffin Island, a spectacular mountainous area covering over 57,000 km2, with long fiords, deep U-shaped valleys, glaciers, and icecaps, is one of the least botanically collected and documented areas of the island. Here, we report the results of a floristic study of vascular plant diversity in east-central Baffin Island based on historical and recent collections and field studies. Previous published accounts covering the flora area cited no or few voucher collections. We compiled a dataset of 3,206 unique collections made between the 1860s and 2022, including 850 collected by us. The vascular plant flora comprises 26 families, 71 genera, 163 species (4 with two subspecies each), and 2 nothospecies. The six most species-rich families are Cyperaceae (26 species), Poaceae (24), Brassicaceae (16), Caryophyllaceae (15), Saxifragaceae (11), and Asteraceae (11). The largest genera are Carex (19 species), Draba (9), Potentilla (8), and Saxifraga (8). More than half of the taxa are circumpolar in distribution, few are restricted to North America, and none are endemic to Baffin Island. All taxa found in east-central Baffin Island are native. Many taxa appear to be rare in the flora area; 33 are known from only 1–3 collections and 45 from only one or two localities. Remarkably high diversity was recorded in valleys at the heads of fiords, accounting for 94% of the total flora, which may be attributed to a warmer climate along with high habitat diversity. We document 21 taxa new to the flora area. Particularly noteworthy records include Puccinellia bruggemannii, newly reported from Baffin Island; Ranunculus sabinei and Crucihimalaya bursifolia, not known elsewhere on Baffin Island and disjunct by over 1,000 and 500 km, respectively; Carex holostoma, Diapensia lapponica, Harrimanella hypnoides, and Vaccinium vitis-idaea, northernmost records for Canada; and Arctous alpina and Ranunculus trichophyllus, northernmost records for eastern Canada. Our data show that species new to the flora area continue to be reported and that vast areas within it are botanically under-explored, so we expect that future work will further expand our understanding of the flora of east-central Baffin Island. This study provides essential baseline data for monitoring the impacts of climate change on the flora of this Arctic region.
["Arctic"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

Lysimachia speciosa (Primulaceae), a new species from Central China
A new species, Lysimachia speciosa, from western Hubei Province, Central China, is described and illustrated. The species is morphologically similar to L. deltoidea, especially var. cinerascens, but mainly differs from the latter by the recurved pubescence on the stem, petiole, and pedicel; the rhombic-ovate or ovate-lanceolate leaf blade; the longer petiole, calyx, corolla, stamens, and style; the erose lobes of the corolla; and the hairy ovary and capsule.

Ultrastructure of three species of Surirella (Bacillariophyta) from Lake Qinghai, China, with descriptions of two new species
Three Surirella species found at the same locality in Lake Qinghai, northwestern China, are studied using light and scanning electron microscope observations. Two species are proposed as new to science and named S. ectorii sp. nov. and S. qinghainensis sp. nov. The third species is identified as S. brightwellii W. Smith. Both S. brightwellii and S. qinghainensis have valves with an ovate outline and a broadly rounded headpole and cuneate footpole, whereas S. ectorii has valves with a nearly elliptical outline and an almost isopolar headpole and footpole. Both S. ectorii and S. qinghainensis produce a marginal row of costae on the wall of the raphe canal, whereas S. brightwellii does not possess this feature. This study provides further insights into the diversity of endemic diatom species inhabiting the ancient Lake Qinghai and illustrates the variability of valve ultrastructure in the genus Surirella.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Raphiocarpus discolor (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China
Raphiocarpus discolor, a new species from Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. This species is morphologically similar to R. bicallosus C.H.Nguyen, Aver. & F.Wen but can be distinguished by several characteristics, including the absence of prophylls, all axes bearing white pubescence, the corolla tube being externally yellow to brownish yellow with several indistinct longitudinal yellowish-brown stripes, and internally purplish red to purplish brown and glabrous. According to the IUCN Red List criteria for endangered species, this new species has been provisionally recognized as Critically Endangered (CR).
["Flora of Guangdong"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Two new species of Hedyotis L. (Rubiaceae) from Yunnan and Guangxi, China
Two new species, Hedyotis jinghongensis from Yunnan Province and H. austroguangxiensis from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, are described and photographed here. H. jinghongensis is similar to H. communis and H. interrupta in having lanceolate to narrowly lanceolate leaves and triangular stipules, but it differs from them by its smaller leaves, stipules marginally with 3–6 colleter-tipped linear lobes on each side, and shorter inflorescences. H. austroguangxiensis is most similar to H. taishanensis and H. shenzhenensis in having terminal, compound-cymose inflorescences and short internodes at the base, but it differs from them by its terete stem and inflorescence rachis and longer corolla tubes. Molecular phylogenetic analysis revealed that the two new species represent independent clades. In addition, they were assessed as Least Concern (LC) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Hedyotis-Oldenlandia complex"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Melhania orriana (Malvaceae, Dombeyoideae), a new species from Somalia
Melhania orriana Dorr, sp. nov., is described and illustrated. It is known only from central and southern Somalia at low elevations. The new species is morphologically similar to M. stipulosa J.R.I. Wood, which was described from Yemen and occurs in Ethiopia and Somalia at high elevations.
["Dombeyoideae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

Sinocrassula cuonaensis (Crassulaceae), a new succulent species from Southern Xizang, China
Sinocrassula cuonaensis, a new species of Crassulaceae from southern Xizang, is described and illustrated based on molecular and morphological evidence. Phylogenetically, it is sister to S. densirosulata with robust support. Morphologically, this new species is similar to S. indica var. viridiflava, S. densirosulata, and S. jiaozishanensis in having glabrous indumentum and long inflorescences, but it can be easily distinguished by its rosulate, thick, and near-cylindrical basal leaves, greenish white flowers, and sub-rectangular nectar scales. A key for identification of the genus, including the new species, is provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

Pternopetalum wulingense (Apiaceae), a new species from the Wuling Mountains, China
Pternopetalum wulingense (Apiaceae) is described as a new species from the Wuling Mountains in Guizhou Province and Chongqing Municipality, China. Both phylogenetic analyses and diagnostic morphological traits support its placement within Pternopetalum and confirm its distinction from close relatives. It closely resembles P. trichomanifolium in having finely dissected 3–4-pinnate basal leaves and a preference for moist habitats, but differs in having a rhombic leaf blade outline, ultimate segments of uniform width and oblong-ovoid fruits with both mericarps fully developed.
["Apiaceae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Dendrocalamus wazibii (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new bamboo species from Yunnan, China
Dendrocalamus wazibii (Bambusoideae), a new bamboo species is described and illustrated from Cangyuan County, Yunnan, China. Based on careful comparison of morphological and generative characters, we confirmed its identity as a new member of the genus Dendrocalamus. The morphology of this new species is similar to D. peculiaris and D. tomentosus, but can be easily distinguished from them by having culm leaf ligule 15 mm long (vs. 5–7 mm in D. tomentosus and 6–10 mm in D. peculiaris), linear culm leaf auricle (vs. absent in D. tomentosus and D. peculiaris), anther 2–2.5 mm long (vs. 2.5–3 mm in D. tomentosus; vs. 3–3.5 mm in D. peculiaris), stamen 5 mm long (vs. 6 mm in D. tomentosus; vs. 10 mm in D. peculiaris). According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (IUCN 2024), it meets the criteria to be listed as Data Deficient (DD).
["Cangyuan County"]
["Bamboo properties and applications", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

Dryopteris pycnolepis, a new fern species from northern Vietnam, with miscellaneous notes on Dryopteris sect. Splendentes (Dryopteridaceae)
A new woodfern species, Dryopteris pycnolepis, is described from northern Vietnam. The new species differs mainly in having broadly lanceolate scales (versus ovate-lanceolate) on the stipe and rachis, lateral pinnae with the basal acroscopic pinnules longer than their immediately adjacent pinnules (versus subequal), and fibrillose scales present on both surfaces of pinnules (versus glabrous). Phylogenetic analyses of plastome sequences support both the distinctness of D. pycnolepis as a species and its close affinity to D. sikkimensis. Morphological comparisons and phylogenetic analyses confirm that these two species, together with D. rubrobrunnea and D. splendens, form a small natural group (i.e., sect. Splendentes) within the Dryopteris clade of this genus. It appears to be a replacement species of the Sino-Himalayan D. sikkimensis in northern Vietnam. Section Splendentes is shown to be geographically restricted to the Sino-Himalaya region and northern Vietnam, excluding eastern Asian species previously included in this section. The discrepancy between phylogenetically and morphologically inferred interspecific relationships within sect. Splendentes is highlighted and briefly discussed. The correct authorship of the name D. splendens is noted to be “(Bedd.) Kuntze.”
["Dryopteris splendens"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Taxonomic studies on the genus Sanicula (Apiaceae) from China (IV): Clarification of morphology and distribution of S. rugulosa and S. subgiraldii, with reduction of S. astrantiifolia to a synonym of the former
Through field observations of living plants and the analysis of herbarium collections, including type material, it is demonstrated that Sanicula rugulosa can be distinguished from S. subgiraldii by several morphological characteristics, including the presence of slightly tripartite basal leaves (vs. deeply ternate leaves), umbellules that typically contain 5–7 flowers (vs. 4–11), 3–8 staminate flowers (vs. 2–3), generally three fertile flowers (vs. 1–3) and a consistently black stylopodium (vs. a whitish or pale green one). Furthermore, S. astrantiifolia and S. hanyuanensis are not essentially different morphologically from S. rugulosa and we, therefore, propose to treat them as synonyms in this study.
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Sedum shunhuangense (Crassulaceae), a new species from Hunan, China
We describe and illustrate Sedum shunhuangense, a new species from Hunan, China. The species is morphologically similar to S. alfredii and S. yangjifengensis but differs in having subequal sepals, papillate seeds, and alternate leaves with caducous lower leaves during flowering. Phylogenetic reconstruction strongly supports two accessions of S. shunhuangense as monophyletic and sister to S. lipingense and S. wilsonii. The species has an estimated wild population of 200 individuals and is assessed as Endangered (EN) under IUCN criteria.
["Hunan Province"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Bioactivity Studies"]

A new species of Pleurothallis in the P. cardiostola-P. lilijae complex of section Macrophyllae-Fasciculatae (Orchidaceae, Pleurothallidinae) from Ecuador and Peru
A new species of Pleurothallis subgenus Pleurothallis section Macrophyllae-Fasciculatae, recently discovered in upper montane cloud forests of the province of Loja, southern Ecuador, and the department of Amazonas, northern Peru, is described and illustrated as P. labajosii sp. nov. It is similar to other species of the P. cardiostola–P. lilijae complex, especially P. alopex, but differs from the latter in its oblong-lanceolate leaves; pale yellow to reddish-maroon, resupinate flowers; elliptic to elliptic-ovate, 5-veined dorsal sepal; ovate to ovate-triangular, 4-veined synsepal; recurved petals; and deep, triangular, minutely papillose labellum cavity with a deep, rounded glenion. A distribution map and information on the ecological preferences of the new species are provided.
["\u00c1rea de Conservaci\u00f3n Privada Huaylla Bel\u00e9n-Colcamar"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Scutellaria cavicola (Lamiaceae), a new cave-dwelling species from Northwest Guangxi, China
Scutellaria cavicola C.Xiong, Z.Y.Wei & L.F.Fu, a new cave-dwelling species discovered in Lingyun County, Guangxi, China, was described and illustrated. The new species morphologically resembles S. tsinyunensis in having ligneous stems, stiffly papery leaves, undulate leaf margins. However, it can be clearly distinguished from S. tsinyunensis in the height of plants, the shape of leaf blades, the length of petiole and racemes, the size of leaves and nutlets. The results of molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on nuclear ribosome internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and external transcribed spacers (ETS) of 43 Scutellaria species, showed that S. cavicola is closely related to S. tsinyunensis. Notably, according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the new species is assigned to the Critically Endangered (CR) category.
["Flora of Guangxi"]
["Flavonoids in Medical Research", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Taxonomic novelties in New Guinea Uvarieae (Annonaceae): Revision of Pyramidanthe and new genus records of Desmos and Fissistigma
The diversity of climbing Annonaceae in New Guinea, the world’s largest tropical island, remains poorly known. Here, we provide a regional taxonomic account for three genera of the Uvarieae tribe, two of which represent new genus records for the island. First, we revise the genus Pyramidanthe (formerly Mitrella), recognizing a total of seven species. Four are described as new, P. montana, P. nervosa, P. oblongifolia, and P. parvifolia, whereas another, P. silvatica, is synonymized under P. schlechteri. Two additional Uvarieae genera, Desmos and Fissistigma, are recorded in New Guinea for the first time. Desmos is reported with the description of a new species, D. insolens, based on a single fruiting collection from the Ramu basin of Papua New Guinea. Fissistigma, sister to Pyramidanthe, is reported following the discovery of two collections of F. latifolium from the Bird’s Head Peninsula of Indonesia. Due to improper typification of the latter species, a neotype is herein designated. A key to the species of Pyramidanthe is provided alongside a key to the six climbing Annonaceae genera in New Guinea. This account raises to 21 the total number of Annonaceae genera present on the island.
["Indonesia"]

Lysimachia nanshanensis (Primulaceae), a new species from southwest Hunan, China
Lysimachia nanshanensis, a new species of Lysimachia ser. Paridiformes discovered in Nanshan National Park of southwest Hunan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, this new species most closely resembles L. sciadantha in having whorled leaves and terminal umbels but differs from L. sciadantha by having terminal umbels without a peduncle, subpapery leaves with obvious black glandular punctation and striation, longer pedicels, and filaments that are nearly free. Results of molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and two chloroplast DNA fragments (matK and rbcL) of 34 Lysimachia species, showed that L. nanshanensis is closely related to L. sciadantha. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the new species is assigned to the Vulnerable (VU D1) category.
["Flora of Hunan"]

Re-assignment of Gongrosira leptotricha, a newly-recorded species in China, to Stephanosphaerinia clade (Chlamydomonadales, Chlorophyceae): insights from morphological and phylogenetic analyses
A newly-recorded green algal species in China, identified as Gongrosira leptotricha Raineri, exhibits distinctive morphological characteristics. The thallus of this specimen is spherical or slightly irregular, calcified and firmly adheres to stones in running water. The prostrate part consists of loose, thin-walled tissue, with extended filaments being cylindrical and sparsely branched. The terminal sporangia are only slightly larger than the vegetative cells, with smaller cell dimensions and a higher length-to-width ratio. Biflagellate zoospores were formed within terminal sporangia. Each cell contains one or two pyrenoids. Ultrastructural observations revealed that the pyrenoids are traversed by thylakoid membranes and no plasmodesmata were observed between adjacent cells, confirming that Gongrosira leptotricha should be excluded from the order Chaetophorales. Phylogenetic analyses of 18S rDNA, ITS and tufA sequences indicate that Gongrosira leptotricha belongs to the Stephanosphaerinia clade of Chlamydomonadales. Within this clade, Gongrosira leptotricha and Gongrosira papuasica forms a distinct, independent branch and cannot be assigned to any currently-known genus within Chlamydomonadales, but the taxonomic status of other species within the genus Gongrosira, including the type species, remains unresolved. Therefore, the name Gongrosira leptotricha has been retained. Further in-depth research, particularly focusing on the type species Gongrosira sclerococcus, is needed to refine the classification system and resolve the taxonomic uncertainties within this genus.
["Chlorophyta"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Algal biology and biofuel production", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Orychophragmus yangii sp. nov. (Brassicaceae), a new species from Shaanxi, China
A new species, Orychophragmus yangii sp. nov., from the Loess Plateau of Shaanxi Province, China, is described and illustrated. This species differs clearly from all other Orychophragmus species in the following traits: whole plant glabrous; leaves varying from simple to pinnatifid but never lyrate; pinnatifid leaves with lobes divided or not; simple leaves widest at the base; sepals green; petals white; fruit narrowly linear, terete, and glabrous; rostra of fruit 2–4 mm long. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on plastid genomic data and nuclear ribosomal RNA genes showed that the new species represents the first divergent lineage in the genus Orychophragmus. The chromosome number of the new species is 2n = 24.
["Loess Plateau"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Petrocosmea pengzhouensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Sichuan Province, China
A new species of Gesneriaceae, Petrocosmea pengzhouensis K.Huang & Z.X.Fu, sp. nov., from the Feilaifeng Scenic Area of Longmen Mountain National Geological Park (Pengzhou, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China), is described and illustrated. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses provide robust evidence for its recognition as a new species. While morphologically most similar to P. duclouxii Craib, phylogenetic reconstructions reveal its closest affinities with P. duclouxii and P. intraglabra (W. T. Wang) Z. J. Qiu. The new species is morphologically distinguished from P. duclouxii by a suite of diagnostic characters: leaf shape (ovate to oblique-ovate vs. ovate to nearly orbicular), corolla throat (spotless vs. bearing two deep purple spots), and filament pubescence (translucent-puberulent vs. rust-brown puberulent). A distribution map and a comparative morphological table with P. duclouxii, P. intraglabra, and P. hexiensis S. Z. Zhang & Z. Y. Liu, and a preliminary conservation assessment following IUCN criteria are provided.
["Morphological characters"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Sinosenecio yaanensis (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a new species from western Sichuan, China
Sinosenecio yaanensis K.Huang & Z.X.Fu (Asteraceae) is described as a new species from Tianquan County, western Sichuan, China. It resembles S. chienii and S. homogyniphyllus in its scapigerous habit and palmately veined ovate to ovate-cordate radical leaves, but differs in several stable traits. Its leaves are subcoriaceous with whitish blotches adaxially and a purplish red abaxial surface, whereas S. chienii has submembranous blades that are pale green on the abaxial surface, while S. homogyniphyllus has smaller membranous leaves. Sinosenecio yaanensis produces 3–10 (vs. 2–9 in S. chienii and mostly solitary in S. homogyniphyllus) capitula, ca. 8 (vs. 10–12 and 8–17) ray florets, and lacks a pappus (vs. absent or rarely with short hairs). Phylogenetic analyses based on chloroplast genomes and ITS sequences place S. yaanensis within the Sinosenecio–tussilaginoid assemblage corresponding to the Tussilagininae subtribe, clustering with S. chienii and S. homogyniphyllus.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

Reinstatement of Cyclocarya serrata (Juglandaceae) based on ploidy, morphology, niche and phylogenetics
Pterocarya serrata C.K.Schneid., originally described in 1912, has long been treated as a synonym of Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal.) Iljinsk. in Plants of the World Online (POWO). Based on an integrative framework combining ploidy determination, morphometric analyses, ecological niche comparisons, and molecular phylogenetics of mixed-ploidy populations, together with extensive herbarium and field investigations, we formally reinstate Pterocarya serrata as a distinct species within the genus Cyclocarya, recognizing three synonyms. Our results reveal clear phenotypic divergence and genetic differentiation between C. serrata and C. paliurus, which have evolved into separate evolutionary lineages. These findings refute the traditional treatment of Cyclocarya as a monotypic genus. Furthermore, we present the first comprehensive morphological descriptions, distribution records, and taxonomic notes for both C. serrata and C. paliurus, thereby advancing the systematic understanding of Cyclocarya.
["Cyclocarya"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Genetic Mapping and Diversity in Plants and Animals"]

A new Dichocarpum W.T.Wang & P.K.Hsiao (Ranunculaceae) species from Guizhou, China
A new species of Dichocarpum from Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it resembles D. auriculatum, D. trifoliolatum, D. basilare, D. franchetii, D. arisanense, D. adiantifolium, and D. uniflorum. However, it differs from these seven species by its creeping stolons, 3–5-foliolate leaflets with scalloped or suborbicular shape, and an inflorescence consisting of a single flower. The phylogenetic relationship with other species of the genus is examined based on three chloroplast gene segments (matK, trnL-F, trnH-psbA) and one nuclear ribosomal DNA region (ITS). In addition, an identification key to all Chinese species of Dichocarpum is provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and animal studies"]

Two new rarely collected species of Annonaceae from the Peruvian Amazon
While preparing a taxonomic revision of the Neotropical genus Klarobelia Chatrou (Annonaceae), two species new to science – Klarobelia icoja S.Lara & Chatrou, sp. nov., and Malmea abscondita Chatrou & Gees, sp. nov. – were discovered. Both species are known from only two collections, made in Amazonian Peru. We clarify their generic placement and taxonomic identity based on a comparison of morphological characters with previously described species and on molecular phylogenetic analysis of four plastid markers. The conservation status of both species is assessed following IUCN criteria, and line drawings and distribution map are provided.
["Klarobelia"]

Two new species of Columnea (Gesneriaceae) from the Colombian Andes
Two new species of Columnea are described based on recent field expeditions and herbarium research. These species are unusual within Columnea for exhibiting a dorsiventral epiphytic habit typical of many northern Andean species, but they lack conspicuous floral bracts. Columnea combeimae Lozano-Cif., J.E.Ríos & J.L.Clark, sp. nov. is distinguished by uniformly green leaves, prominent extrafloral nectary glands on the pedicels, and a hirsute indumentum of purple trichomes. Columnea rubropilosa J.L.Clark & Clavijo, sp. nov. is characterized by a conic purple berry and a densely pilose indumentum of red trichomes on both vegetative and reproductive structures. Both species are endemic to the Colombian Andes.

Neillia daloushanensis, a new species of Neillia (Rosaceae) from southwest China
Through detailed morphological comparison and robust molecular evidence, we confirm Neillia daloushanensis M.T.An & Xu Wu as a new species of Rosaceae from Guizhou province, southwest China. Morphologically, N. daloushanensis closely resembles N. gracilis but differs in several key traits: it is a creeping liana rather than a low subshrub; its stems are 0.6–1.5 cm long compared to the slender stems less than 0.5 cm tall in N. gracilis; its leaves are larger, measuring 5–9 × 3–6 cm vs. 2.5–3.5 × 2–3 cm; stipules are sessile, clasping, and larger (0.8–1.3 × 0.6–1.1 cm) rather than peitiolate and smaller (0.4–0.6 × 0.3–0.5 cm) without clasping; calyx tubes are densely pilose on both surfaces and bear stipitate glands abaxially, in contrast to the slightly pubescent, glandless calyx tubes of N. gracilis; and the seed number ranges from 2 to 4 instead of consistently 2. These morphological distinctions are further corroborated by molecular phylogenetic analysis based on 703 single-copy nuclear genes, supporting the recognition of N. daloushanensis as a distinct species within the genus.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Ecology and Conservation Studies"]

Berberis jiuzhaigouensis (Berberidaceae), a new riparian shrub from northern Sichuan, China
Berberis jiuzhaigouensis is herein described as a new deciduous species endemic to riparian habitats in Jiuzhaigou, northern Sichuan, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on complete plastome sequences and 322 nuclear loci consistently recover B. jiuzhaigouensis as a distinct and divergent lineage, genetically separated from all morphologically similar species and most closely related to B. gilgiana. Species delimitation analyses employing both topology-based (SODA) and substitution-based (bPTP, mPTP) frameworks further corroborate its taxonomic distinctiveness. This discovery highlights previously overlooked species diversity within Berberis in the Hengduan Mountains region.
["Berberis"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Diplazium clivicolum (Polypodiales, Athyriaceae), a new fern species from southern Yunnan, China
A new species in Athyriaceae, Diplazium clivicolum (section Anisogonium) is described and illustrated from southern Yunnan, China. Diplazium clivicolum exhibits the greatest morphological similarity to D. incomptum, particularly in lamina division, but can be reliably differentiated, based on lamina width and lobe shape. Molecular phylogenetic analysis demonstrates that the new species is closely related to D. petiolare, despite low morphological concordance. This study focuses on comparing the morphological characteristics of these three species.
["Diplazium incomptum"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Metapetrocosmea navicularis, a new species of Gesneriaceae in Vietnam
Based on morphological comparisons, literature reviews, and molecular systematic studies, a new species from South Vietnam, Metapetrocosmea navicularis F.Wen, T.V.Do, Z.B.Xin & K.Tan, has been confirmed. Morphologically, this new species resembles Metapetrocosmea tamiana (B.L.Burtt) Yin Z.Wang & P.W.Li in leaf peltate, bilabiate corollas, arcuate filaments, and slightly curved capsule, while it is distinguished from M. tamiana in having leaf blade ovate to ovate-elliptic, boat-shaped bracts 6–9 mm long, the ratio of corolla lobes length to corolla tube length consistently 1 : 3, corolla tube gradually narrowed from mouth to base, subcylindrical-infundibulate, 10–20-flowered or more, filaments pubescent near the top. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using the combined dataset of trnL-F and ITS sequences show that the new species is also most closely related to M. tamiana. The conservation status of this new species is assessed as Least Concern (LC).
["Didymocarpoideae"]

A new species, Didymoglossum radiatum (Hymenophyllaceae), and two new records with note to the genus Didymoglossum Desv. from Thailand
During the filmy fern (Hymenophyllaceae) diversity study in Thailand, the genus Didymoglossum was investigated using morphological data and molecular phylogenetic analyses of the chloroplast rbcL region. This study revealed a new species, Didymoglossum radiatum S.Chokrassameehirun, Kraichak & Jaruwatt., sp. nov., which is currently known only from peninsular Thailand. This taxon resembles D. tahitense in possessing peltate fronds but differs in frond size, the structure of false veinlets, and the appearance of its sori. The phylogenetic results further confirmed the distinct phylogenetic positions of D. henzaianum and D. mindorense, which were also newly recorded and described for Thailand.
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Sinojohnstonia henanensis (Boraginaceae), a new species from Henan, China
Sinojohnstonia henanensis, a new species from the Muzhaling Scenic Area in Henan Province, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to S. chekiangensis and S. ruhuaii but differs from the former in the size of the basal leaves, calyx size, color and size of the corolla, and length of the style; and from the latter in cauline petiole length, calyx size, color and size of the corolla, stamen insertion, filament length, and style length. Additionally, the conservation status and other pertinent notes are provided.
["Boraginaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Two new combinations of Middletonia (Gesneriaceae) in China
In 2016, systematic studies of the tribe Loxocarpinae A.DC. supported the establishment of the new genus Middletonia C. Puglisi. This study was based on inference and parsimony analyses of a phylogenetic tree derived from the nuclear ITS and plastid trnL-trnF regions, constructing the most recent phylogeny that includes the genera Middletonia and Paraboea. The results showed that the current generic delimitation within the tribe differs from the clades delineated by phylogenetic analysis, and both morphological and molecular evidence support treating the Hainan endemics Paraboea changjiangensis Xing & Z.X.Li and P. hainanensis (Chun) Burtt as species of Middletonia. Therefore, this paper re-delimits the genera Middletonia and Paraboea, aiming to establish a more natural classification, and proposes the new combinations Middletonia changjiangensis (F.W.Xing & Z.X.Li) X.X.Bai, comb. nov., and Middletonia hainanensis (Chun) X.X.Bai, comb. nov., providing a valuable framework for the development and comparative studies of the molecular systematics of the family Gesneriaceae.
["Loxocarpinae"]

Derris longiracemosa (Fabaceae), a new species from Thailand with extraordinary limestone adaptations and the longest inflorescences ever recorded
A new species of Derris Lour. (Fabaceae), Derris longiracemosa Boonprajan & Sirich., sp. nov., is described as the species bearing the longest inflorescences recorded in the genus to date, reaching up to 155 cm in length. Endemic to limestone areas in southwestern Thailand, it is possibly the third known limestone-adapted Derris species. Compared with its closest morphological relative and a partially sympatric species, D. solorioides, D. longiracemosa exhibits a longer and differently structured inflorescence, lower numbers of ovules per ovary (fewer than five ovules), and flowers that turn pinker with maturity. Leaf anatomical study reveals several differences, such as the shape of epidermal cells, the presence of secretory-like cavities, an atypical stomatal type that occasionally occurs, the presence of schizogenous cavities in the midrib cortex, and the distinct absence of lysigenous cavities in the pulvini cortex, as well as a thicker mesophyll compared to D. solorioides. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using nuclear ITS and plastid trnL-F and trnK-matK sequences confirms all four sampled populations as a single, well-supported species, distinct from other Derris taxa but showing a close relationship with D. rubrocalyx only in Bayesian inference. This combination of morphological, anatomical, and molecular evidence supports the recognition of Derris longiracemosa as a distinct species. A detailed description, distribution map, line drawing, photographs, and preliminary IUCN conservation status are provided.
["Endangered"]

A new species of Nototriche (Malvaceae, Malvoideae) from the high Andes of Ecuador
A new species of Nototriche (Malvaceae, Malvoideae) growing in the high Andes of Ecuador is described. Nototriche antisanensis E.J.Trujillo, Muriel, Espinel-Ortiz & Romol. is a cushion plant known only from the Antisana volcano in northeastern Ecuador. Morphologically, it is most similar to N. jamesonii A.W.Hill, but it differs in its cushion habit and vegetative characters, such as indumentum, corolla tube size, stamen head morphology, and the number of mericarps per fruit. Photographs of living plants and a scientific illustration of the new species are provided. In addition, a distribution map, an identification key, and a table comparing the habit, morphology, and distribution of all Nototriche species known from Ecuador are included.
["Antisana"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Taxonomic revision of the Cyathula achyranthoides group (Amaranthaceae, Achyranthoids) in continental Africa and Madagascar
Desmochaeta (now Cyathula) achyranthoides was described from South America and reported to be a widespread tropical plant in both Africa and the Americas. A revision of herbarium material revealed that inter alia leaf shape differs between the populations of the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Therefore, we maintain the name C. achyranthoides s.str. for the American populations and re-instate the name C. geminata for most of the African plants. Both species are found in tropical evergreen forests, mainly at low altitudes. Furthermore, two mountain species, C. brevispicata from Madagascar and C. aethiopica from east tropical Africa, which were previously identified as C. achyranthoides, are described as new to science. Compared to both C. achyranthoides and C. geminata, these new species have short inflorescences and longer, recurved or uncinate perianths in the fertile flowers and morphologically resemble C. fernando-poensis; the latter is only known from the mountains of Equatorial Guinea (Bioko Island), south-west and (newly recorded here) North-West Regions of Cameroon. The species under study are compared with one another and with the related, pantropically distributed species C. prostrata; their synonymy is verified and typifications are established. The fine-level partial florescence (cyme) structure of each species is also studied, with further taxonomic implications. Cyathula geminata seems to be restricted to west and central tropical Africa, with its range replaced eastwards by C. aethiopica and in Madagascar by C. brevispicata.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A revision of the genus Cistanche (Orobanchaceae) in Israel, and considerations for its taxonomic circumscription in the Middle East
The genus Cistanche is the subject of considerable taxonomic confusion due to reduced morphology, poor preservation in herbaria, and misidentification. Here we re-examine the Cistanche of Israel, a region that falls within the broader Middle Eastern centre of diversity for the genus, but has been neglected from systematic attention. In our reconsideration we address taxonomic confusion in the region and confirm the presence of C. tubulosa and C. violacea, report for the first time the occurrence of C. laxiflora plus a separate entity we refer to as C. tinctoria, and describe a new species, C. mimii. We observe considerable phenotypic plasticity hitherto unreported, for example fruit valve number. Together, our findings suggest that species circumscription and diversity are still poorly understood and require careful examination in the field at a local scale. We provide a key for all Cistanche species in the region, along with an assessment of their ecology and conservation considerations. Finally, we consider our findings within the broader context systematics in this complicated genus.
["Holoparasite"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Lectotypification of Pterocarya serrata C.K.Schneider (Juglandaceae), the name of a forgotten species of wingnuts
The Juglandaceae species Pterocarya serrata C.K.Schneid. was first described in 1912, but its assumed holotype, a flowering E. H. Wilson collection in the Vienna herbarium, was destroyed during World War II. Schneider described P. serrata as ‘fruits unknown’ because he thought that a fruiting specimen, collected under the same number, was a mixed collection. Pre-1958, citation of a single collection does not automatically constitute a type, but we here accept the Vienna material as the lost holotype and select the A duplicate with the most precise location information as the lectotype, with isolectotypes in at least six other herbaria. Additionally, we designate a fruiting specimen as the epitype.
["Camillo K. Schneider"]
["Plant and Fungal Interactions Research", "Nuts composition and effects", "Plant and animal studies"]

Petrocodon parviflorus (Gesneriaceae), a new species identified by both morphological and molecular evidence from limestone caves in Guangxi, China
Petrocodon parviflorus, a new species of Gesneriaceae, is a typically cave-dwelling species from the limestone region in Guangxi, China. Morphologically, this new species resembles P. lui, but can be readily distinguished by differences in corolla limb lobe shape, calyx lobe surface texture, pistil style length, and central staminode length. Molecular evidence supports its close phylogenetic relationship with P. lui despite their morphological distinctness. Based on the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, this species is assessed as Vulnerable (VU, D2).

A new white-flowered species of Gagea (Liliaceae) from the Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan
The article describes the morphological and anatomical features of Gagea khassanovii Levichev, Turginov & W.J.Li, sp. nov., recently described from the Fergana Valley. The species belongs to the section Incrustatae and differs from the species G. circumplexa Vved. in the colour of the flower and the presence of hairs on the leaves of the roots. This species is considered endemic to the Fergana Valley and contributes to the region’s floristic uniqueness.
["Ageotropic sclerified roots"]
["Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Epipyxis fenheensis sp. nov., a new species of the genus Epipyxis (Chrysophyceae)
The genus Epipyxis, belonging to the family Dinobryaceae, has been documented to have only sporadic occurrences in freshwater habitats. However, the species diversity of this genus remains largely unexplored due to the scarcity of available molecular sequences. This limitation has significantly hindered a comprehensive understanding of both the species diversity and evolutionary relationships of the genus Epipyxis. In this study, a new species Epipyxis fenheensis sp. nov. was described from Shanxi Province, China, based on detailed morphological observations and phylogenetic analyses. This species was characterized by a tube-like lorica, a spindle protoplast, two heterokont flagella, and oval or elliptic scales. In addition, phylogenetic analysis based on multi-genes (SSU, LSU, and rbcL) indicated that strain SX231009 was closely related to E. pulchra. Given its distinct morphological characteristics and independent phylogenetic position, we propose the designation of this strain as a new species, E. fenheensis sp. nov. The results of this study significantly expand the known diversity of the genus Epipyxis and provide valuable insights into the regional biodiversity and evolutionary history of freshwater chrysophytes.
["Epipyxis"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Impatiens meishanensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Impatiens meishanensis K.Huang & Z.X.Fu, sp. nov., a new species of Balsaminaceae from Meishan City, Sichuan Province, China, is described and illustrated. The complete chloroplast (cp) genome of I. meishanensis is 152,104 bp in length. Based on phylogenetic analysis of the complete cp genome, I. meishanensis represents a distinct species closely related to Impatiens faberi Hook.f. The new species can be distinguished from the latter by its unique morphological characteristics: lower sepal gable-boat-shaped (vs. funnel-shaped), spur straight (vs. curved), flower large, ca. 4 cm long (vs. ca. 3 cm long), and seeds ellipsoid with reticulate seed coat ornamentation (vs. oblong, smooth). In addition, a distribution map, a detailed morphological comparison with related species, and an assessment of the conservation status of this newly identified species are provided.
["Impatiens"]

The native species of Callianthe (Malvaceae, Malvoideae) in northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas and adjacent Brazil)
The native species of Callianthe Donnell (Malvaceae, Malvoideae) in northern South America (Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas and adjacent Brazil) are reviewed. Five species are recognised, of which one, C. sylvatica (Cav.) Dorr, is widespread and found not only in Colombia (Cordillera Orientale) and Venezuela (Cordillera de la Costa and Sierra Nevada de Mérida), but also Andean Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. The other four species have more restricted geographic ranges: C. clarkei Dorr, sp. nov. is known only from the Wassarai [Wassari] Mountains of southern Guyana; C. petiolaris (Kunth) Donnell occurs only in the Cordillera Orientale of Colombia; and C. roseangelae Dorr, sp. nov. is restricted to the Sierra Nevada de Mérida of Venezuela. A dearth of wild collections hampers establishing the precise native range of C. insignis (Planch.) Dorr, comb. nov., which was discovered in the Andes of either Colombia or Venezuela and quickly entered cultivation. A Brazilian species, Sida speciosa Willd. ex Spreng. (≡ S. rosea Link & Otto), erroneously purported to occur in Venezuela, belongs in Callianthe and is recognised here as a synonym of C. purpurascens (Link) Dorr, comb. nov. Nine typifications are designated for synonyms of Callianthe species; seven are for names in Abutilon Mill. and two for names in Sida L.
["Abutilon"]
["Botanical Research and Applications", "Seed and Plant Biochemistry", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Justicia tiandengensis (Acanthaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Justicia tiandengensis (Acanthaceae), a new species from a karst cave in southwestern Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular evidence. This new species resembles Justicia leptostachya Hemsl. in having elongated stems, cauline leaves, and more than one flower per rachis node, but it can be readily distinguished by its oblong, thickly papery leaf blades (vs. ovate, thinly papery); calyx 2–3 mm long (vs. ca. 6 mm long); and pubescent ovary and style (vs. glabrous). Photographs, an illustration, and a distribution map are also provided.
["Justicia"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

Novelties in the genus Ardisia (Primulaceae) from Vietnam: a new species and two new records
A new species, Ardisia dahoaiensis (Subgenus Tinus), is described from Lam Dong Province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Additionally, two taxa from the subgenus Bladhia of Ardisia: A. purpureovillosa, and A. scalarinervis are newly recorded from Vietnam. Photographic illustrations and voucher specimens for each species are provided.

Carpinus wenshanensis (Betulaceae), a new species from southeast Yunnan, China
Carpinus wenshanensis Xiaolong Zhou, a newly discovered hornbeam species endemic to Wenshan Prefecture in southeast Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. This study employs an integrative taxonomic approach, combining morphological comparison, biogeographic distribution analysis, and phylogenetic reconstruction based on nuclear ITS sequences, to establish C. wenshanensis as a distinct species sister to C. tschonoskii. Carpinus wenshanensis is diagnostically characterized by six key morphological traits: (1) mucronate-serrate leaf margins (versus setiform serrate in C. tschonoskii); (2) serration restricted to the basal half of outer bract margins (versus extending across both basal and apical halves); (3) reduced serration number on outer bract margins (1–3 serrations per margin compared to 4–7); (4) nearly glabrous petioles and annual branchlets (versus sparsely or densely pubescent); (5) longer petioles (1.0–1.7 cm versus 0.6–1.3 cm); and (6) a variable leaf base shape (rounded, subrounded, cordate, or subcordate versus rounded-cuneate or cuneate). Additionally, population-level ITS sequence comparison identified three fixed nucleotide polymorphisms that unequivocally differentiate C. wenshanensis from its closest relative. Collectively, these findings provide robust evidence for recognizing C. wenshanensis as a novel species within the genus Carpinus.
["hornbeam species"]
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Pharmacological Effects of Medicinal Plants", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Primula jiangyouensis (Primulaceae), a new species of Primula sect. Auganthus from Sichuan, China
Primula jiangyouensis J.L.Gu & Z.K.Wu, a new species of Primulaceae from Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphological evidence supports P. jiangyouensis as a member of P. sect. Auganthus, which is characterized by shallowly to deeply lobed leaves covered with hairs, and distinctively broad and flat-bottomed calyx. The new species is characterized by its branched and stout rhizomes usually up to 40 cm, yellow corollas with a distinct fan-shaped reddish-brown blotch at the base of lobes, and short glandular hair on aboveground parts. The distribution, morphological comparison with close related species and conservation status of the new species, as well as a key to the species of Primula sect. Auganthus, are also provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A forgotten gem: Mendoncia affinis (Acanthaceae), a new species once thriving at the Avenida Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
Recent research towards a revision of Neotropical Mendoncia has confirmed the existence of a new species growing in the semideciduous seasonal forest (mata de planalto) component of the Atlantic Forest. As became evident from fieldwork carried out in Southeastern Brazil and following the study of numerous herbarium specimens, the new species is distinct from M. velloziana, from the coastal and septentrional ombrophilous forests, due to its golden-green bracteoles, densely pubescent ovary and puberulous fruits. A description of the new species is provided, along with a distribution map, conservation status assessment, illustrations and a comparative table with morphologically similar taxa.
["Atlantic Rainforest"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Gracilariopsis grevogerungii (Gracilariales, Rhodophyta), a new species of marine algae from Indonesia
Gracilariopsis grevogerungii G.H.Boo & I.K.Hwang, sp. nov., a new species from southern Indonesia, is described based on morphological features and molecular data from two genes: the plastid-encoded rbcL and the mitochondrial COI-5P. Gracilariopsis grevogerungii can be distinguished from other species in the same genus by a combination of traits: terete main axes with irregular branches and scarce short branchlets, and hemispherical cystocarps with up to 3 ostioles and 9–14 cell-layered pericarp. The species occurred on sandy-muddy substrates in the intertidal to the shallow subtidal zone. Phylogenies based on rbcL and COI-5P revealed its sister relationship with the subclade of Gp. heteroclada from China and Gp. mclachlanii from Tanzania. Our results highlight the need for further findings of the agar-yielding Gracilariaceae in southern Indonesia, expanding our knowledge of red algal diversity in tropical Southeast Asia.
["Agar-yielding"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and Coastal Ecosystems"]

Adesmia ephedroides (Fabaceae, Faboideae), a new species from the Mediterranean-type ecosystem of Valparaíso Region, Chile
A new species, Adesmia ephedroides, discovered in a restricted area of the coastal mountain range within the Valparaíso Region, Chile, is here described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on five nuclear loci, were carried out to explore the phylogenetic position of the new species. Our findings robustly support A. ephedroides as a distinct species, positioned within a clade of Adesmia, characterised by shrubby growth habit, racemose inflorescences and bristled lomenta. This identified clade exhibits a distribution limited to the semi-arid regions spanning from the southern Atacama Desert to Central Chile. Adesmia ephedroides is readily distinguishable from its closest relatives through a combination of features, including green young branches and distinctive leaf morphology: glabrous, few leaflets and persistent, cylindrical petiole and rachis. A detailed taxonomic description, illustrations, field images, distribution map, ecological insights into its habitat and a preliminary IUCN conservation status assessment are provided.
["Central Chile"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Paraphlomis anisochila (Lamiaceae), a new species from Hunan, China
Paraphlomis anisochila, a new species from the subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests of Hunan Province, southern China, is described and illustrated. Morphological comparisons indicate that P. anisochila is most similar to P. seticalyx, whereas molecular phylogenetic analyses based on a comprehensive sampling and two nuclear ribosomal DNA regions (ITS and ETS) place it as the sister species of P. yingdeensis. Paraphlomis anisochila is characterized by its unequal corolla lips, distinguishing it from all other Paraphlomis species. Additionally, it differs from P. seticalyx in lamina shape, petiole and calyx length, and from P. yingdeensis in plant indumentum, calyx tooth apex, and corolla color.
["Evergreen broad-leaved forests"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Unveiling the hidden diversity: the second species of Wenchengia (Lamiaceae) discovered from a dry mountaintop meadow of Hainan Island, China
Wenchengia wui, a remarkable new species of Wenchengia endemic to a dry mountaintop meadow of Sanya City, Hainan Province, southern China, is described and illustrated. The new species is readily distinguished from the only other extant species, W. alternifolia, by its opposite phyllotaxy, oblong-ovate leaves with rounded to slightly truncate bases, shallowly funnelform calyces with spreading lips, and 8-ribbed nutlets, as well as its unique habitat preference. The new species is categorized as Critically Endangered (CR) according to the IUCN Red List criteria, based on its limited distribution, specialized habitat, and small population size. Detailed information on its distribution, habitat, diagnostic characteristics, and a comprehensive morphological description are provided. The discovery of this new species offers valuable insights into the evolutionary history and conservation strategies of Wenchengia.
["Endangered species"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Forest, Soil, and Plant Ecology in China"]

Vicia liupanshanensis (Fabaceae), a new plant species from northwestern China
A new legume species, Vicia liupanshanensis, discovered in the southern Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and central Gansu Province of northwestern China, is described and illustrated. The distinguishing characteristics of this herbaceous plant include its semi-sagittate stipules and the presence of 7–9 pairs of leaflets in its leaves. The racemose inflorescence, which is approximately equal in length to the leaf, features rhombic bractlets (5–7 mm long) covered with short, soft hairs. The secund flowers, arranged along one side of the inflorescence, are slightly drooping, approximately 1 cm in length. The corolla displays a shift in colour from pale greenish-creamy-white to yellow-brown, dark yellow, or dark orange. In accordance with the criteria established by the IUCN Red List, the species Vicia liupanshanensis is evaluated as being of Vulnerable status (VU).
["Leguminosae"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Further investigation of Melocalamus (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) in China based on Skmer analysis and morphology
Melocalamus is a genus of paleotropical woody bamboos distributed in Southeast Asia, characterised by its complex taxonomic history. Currently, the taxonomic status of several species within Melocalamus remains unresolved, primarily due to incompleteness of vegetative specimens for identification, coupled with scarcity of floral and fruit specimens and phylogenetic discordance. To address these issues, we developed a genome skimming dataset with multiple samples per species of Melocalamus through the Skmer approach. Genetic and morphological evidence supports the transfer of M. elevatissimus to Cephalostachyum, with a new combination, C. elevatissimum. Based on a comprehensive evaluation that integrates morphological characters, molecular data and geographic distribution, we propose treating M. utilis as a synonym of M. orenudus and provide the description of its inflorescence and an epitype of it for the first time. Our results further indicate that M. ningmingensis is a synonym of Neomicrocalamus prainii. We also described a new species, M. guangxiensis from Ningming, Guangxi, based on morphological and molecular evidence. Our results demonstrate both the efficiency and reliability of the Skmer approach in species discrimination while emphasising the importance of integrating morphological characters with genomic data for accurate species classification in Melocalamus.
["Cephalostachyum"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Rice Cultivation and Yield Improvement"]

Synotis lhozhagensis (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a new species from south-eastern Xizang, China, based on morphological and molecular evidence
Synotis lhozhagensis, a new species belonging to Senecioneae (Asteraceae), is described and illustrated herein after being discovered during biodiversity surveys in Lhozhag County, Xizang Autonomous Region, China. This species is similar to S. acuminata (Wall. ex DC.) C.Jeffrey & Y.L.Chen, but differs mainly in having the ray floret absent (vs. 1), the leaf margins irregularly coarsely serrate (vs. finely mucronulate-serrate) and the phyllaries five (vs. three or four). It is also allied to S. glomerata C.Jeffrey & Y.L.Chen in growth habit, leaf blade morphology and inflorescence structure, but is distinguished by the corymbs loose and spreading (vs. dense and glomeruliform), the ligulate floret absent (vs. one or two) and the disc florets five (vs. three or four). Phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS sequences, confirms its distinct taxonomic status within Synotis. A line drawing and colour plates, a geographic distribution map, a detailed comparison table including the aforementioned three species and the provisional IUCN status are provided.
["Compositae (Asteraceae)"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

The genus Pycnolejeunea (Lejeuneaceae, Marchantiophyta) in Thailand, with the description of Pycnolejeunea zhuiana
A taxonomic study of the genus Pycnolejeunea in Thailand is presented, based on herbarium specimens and new collections from field surveys. Three species are recognised including P. contigua, P. grandiocellata and one new species, P. zhuiana. The new species is distinguished by the strongly papillose lobules, the presence of 1–8 basal ocelli on the lateral leaf and male bracteoles occurring along nearly the whole of the androecial branch length. A key to species, descriptions and illustrations are provided; ecology and geographical distribution of the species are also described.
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Cyphocarpus perennis (Asterales, Campanulaceae, Cyphocarpoideae), a new species endemic to the Andes of the Atacama Desert, Chile
A new species, Cyphocarpus perennis sp. nov., endemic to the Andes of the Atacama Desert of Chile is here described. Based on new nrDNA ITS sequence data, phylogenetic analyses place this novel species as sister to the remaining species of the genus. Cyphocarpus perennis presents unique characters within the genus, such as a perennial habit and a compact leafy rosette. A detailed description, distribution map, insights about its habitat, conservation status, photographs and an updated key to Cyphocarpus are provided. As for most species found in the Atacama Region, mining activities and climate change represent a major threat for its conservation.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Stellaria yabulaiensis (Caryophyllaceae), a new species from Inner Mongolia, China
Stellaria yabulaiensis (Caryophyllaceae), a new species from Inner Mongolia, China, is described and depicted with photographic illustrations. It is similar to S. bistyla, from which differs in its slender fibrous root, longer leaves and pedicel, occurrence of three styles, and more seeds. A morphological comparison among the new species and the similar ones is also provided.

Four new Planothidium species (Achnanthidiaceae, Bacillariophyceae) from the Karst region of Guizhou in China
Four new species of monoraphid diatoms belonging to the genus Planothidium were studied and described from the karst region of Guizhou Province, China. The morphological characteristics of these new species were observed and documented using light and scanning electron microscopy. Planothidium pseudoreichardtii sp. nov. exhibits a broad sinus at the central area on the interior of the rapheless valve, linear shallow depressions and a unique enlarged areola at the end of the striae on the exterior rapheless valve. Planothidium liboensis sp. nov. is characterized by 4–5 rows striae on both valves, a cavum at the central area on the interior rapheless valve and irregular depressions on the exterior rapheless valve. Planothidium angustirostratum sp. nov. features elliptical valves with narrowly rostrate apices, a cavum at the central area of interior rapheless valve and circular depressions on the exterior rapheless valve. Planothidium maolanensis sp. nov. has elliptical valves without protracted apices, coarsely-spaced striae on the one side of the central area of the both valves. These four new species were compared with other similar Planothidium taxa. In addition, ecological information was provided and the stability of some features was discussed.
["Diatoms"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Preliminary notes on Justicia (Acanthaceae) in Peru
Justicia L. is the most species-rich genus of Acanthaceae in Peru and is here accepted in its broader traditional circumscription. The present paper marks a preliminary step towards a complete revision of the genus in Peru. Taxonomic notes and full synonymy are provided for 45 species including twenty-one new species, all apparently endemic to Peru: Justicia angustituba J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. baguensis J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. bambusiformis J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. chamaecaulis J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. cajamarcensis R. Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. discolor J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. falcifolia J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. huallagensis R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. hyalina J.R.I.Wood & R. Villanueva, J. lactiflora J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. longibracteata J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. oppositiflora R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. oxapampensis R. Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. rojasiae R.Villanueva & J,R.I.Wood, J. saccata R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. sagasteguii J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. schunkei J.R.I.Wood & R. Villanueva, J. spathuliformis R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. tumbesiana R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. valenzuelae J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva and J. werffii J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva. New subspecies, subsp. machupicchuensis J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva of J. alpina Lindau and subsp. filisepala J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva of J. discolor are described. The genus Tessmanniacanthus Mildbr. is united with Justicia, the only species in the genus, T. chlamydocardioides Mildbr. being treated as Justicia chlamydocardioides (Mildbr.) R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood. Justicia loxensis Wassh., J. poeppigiana (Nees) Lindau, J. sessilifolia (Lindau) Wassh., J. soukupii (Standl. & F.A. Barkley) V.A.W.Graham and J. tenuistachys (Rusby) Wassh. & J.R.I.Wood are treated as synonyms respectively of J. chimboracensis Wassh., J. secundiflora (Ruiz & Pav.) Vahl, J. alpina Lindau, J. radicans Vahl and J. tenuiflora Ruiz & Pav. Fourteen names are lectotypified. The paper is copiously illustrated with line drawings, photographs and pollen images. Distribution maps supplement the information on ecology and distribution provided for all species discussed.
["Distribution maps"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Temporal and spatial herbarium density of Favratia zoysii (Wulfen) Feer (Campanulaceae): Insights into type material and historical distribution of an alpine endemic
Favratia zoysii (Wulfen) Feer is a chasmophyte endemic to the south-eastern Alps and the sole representative of the genus Favratia Feer. Its primary occurrences are in Julian Alps and on Mt. Storžič (Kamnik-Savinja Alps) in Slovenia. This study aims at elucidating the original material utilised by Wulfen in the initial description of Campanula zoysii, later reclassified as F. zoysii by Feer, while also exploring the temporal and spatial density of the species’ herbarium collections. To this end, we examined preserved collections from six institutions, including botanical gardens and museums. A total of 127 herbarium vouchers were analysed to identify the specimens referenced by Wulfen. This comprehensive examination of historical collections, spanning over two centuries, allowed us to designate a lectotype, thereby providing a clear typification of F. zoysii. Additionally, we analysed the frequency and geographic distribution of herbarium specimens, a concept referred to as temporal and spatial herbarium density. This combined typification and spatial-temporal analysis not only strengthens the taxonomic clarity of the species, but also provides valuable insights into its botanical history, distribution patterns and conservation needs.
["Alpine flora"]

Fargesia nana (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new bamboo species from Yunnan, China
Fargesia nana (Bambusoideae), a new bamboo species is described and illustrated from Wuding County, Yunnan, China. Based on careful comparison of morphological features and molecular phylogeny evidence, we confirmed its identity as a new member of the genus Fargesia. The morphology of this new species is similar to F. fractiflexa and Yushania polytricha, but differs in its ratio of culm leaf sheath length to internode length, shape of blade, foliage leaf dimensions, and distinct transverse veins. Hitherto, this new species is the smallest of Fargesia species found and recorded. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (IUCN 2024), it meets the criteria to be listed as Critically Endangered (CR).
["Bambusoideae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Plant responses to water stress"]

Navicula congqiancuoensis sp. nov. — a new diatom species (Bacillariophyceae) from Sichuan Province, China
In this study, we describe a new diatom, Navicula congqiancuoensis sp. nov., which was found in epilithon samples collected from a small mountain lake, at Lake Congqiancuo, Sichuan Province, China. A detailed morphological description of the new species is provided based on light and scanning electron micrographs. Navicula congqiancuoensis sp. nov. valve is linear to linear-lanceolate, with a slight elevation in the center and broadly rounded at both apices. The striae are radiate and convergent at the apices. The axial area is narrow and linear, and the central area is small and elliptical in the middle. This new species is compared with similar species, such as Navicula angusta, N. leptostriata, N. piercei, N. heimansioides which differ in size, valve shape, striae density and ultrastructure.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Geniostoma imadae (Loganiaceae), a new single-island endemic species from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands
A new endemic species of Geniostoma from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated with notes on its distribution, ecology, conservation status, and relationships to other members of the genus. A modification to the existing key for Hawaiian Geniostoma is provided along with a key to all Kaua‘i species. Geniostoma imadae sp. nov., differs from its Hawaiian congeners by its unique combination of glabrous stems, leaves and stipules, flowers 3–10 in open, paniculate cymes with peduncles up to 75 mm long, corolla salverform, lobes 9–11 mm long, calyx lobes 5–9 mm long, and capsules 2-valved with beak 2–4 mm long. Population estimates range from 800 to 1250 individuals distributed across the central northern and eastern windward ridges, slopes and valleys of Kaua‘i. Geniostoma imadae represents a new Vulnerable (VU) single-island endemic species.

Aster mayangheense (Asteraceae, Aster), a new species from Guizhou Province, China
Aster mayangheense Z.Li (Asteraceae, Astereae), a new species from Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated here. Morphological and molecular analyses based on nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (nrDNA ITS) confirm its distinct status. The species is morphologically similar to A. saxicola, but differs by its falcate, adaxially shiny upper leaves 3.5–5.0 × 0.8–2.0 cm with long-acuminate to caudate apices (versus oblong-lanceolate to lanceolate leaves in A. saxicola); 5-seriate, abaxially red-purple phyllaries (versus 3–5-seriate with purple-tipped phyllaries); and fewer florets (7–12 ray florets and 5–9 disc florets versus 9–14 ray florets and 10–18 disc florets). Phylogenetic analysis strongly supports its distinctness, with four samples forming a monophyletic clade (PP = 1.00, BS = 100%) nested within Aster.
["Aster"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Primulina aureipurpurea (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
Primulina aureipurpurea, endemic to the limestone area in Dahua County, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, is described and illustrated here. This species is distinguished from P. albicalyx by leaves sessile or with indistinct short petioles (vs. distinctly petiolate, 21–42 mm long in P. albicalyx, the following comparisons are in the same order) and blades oblanceolate, narrowly obovate to obovate (vs. ovate to broadly ovate); bracts smaller, lanceolate (3–4× ca. 1 mm) (vs. ovate to narrowly ovate, 18–25 × 9–14 mm); filaments glabrous and ca. 1.5 mm long (vs. sparely glandular pubescent and 2–2.5 mm long) and pistil sparsely eglandular-puberulent (vs. densely glandular-pubescent). According to the IUCN Red List criteria, the currently known population of this species is provisionally assessed as “Vulnerable, VU D2.”
["Flora of Guangxi"]

An integrative approach to alpha taxonomy in Erica L. (Ericaceae) with three new species from the Western Cape, South Africa
The megagenus Erica L. (Ericaceae) comprises 851 species across its global distribution, with an extraordinary focus of diversity in the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) of South Africa where almost 700 species are endemic. The genus is remarkable for both its morphological diversity and the large number of species and subspecific taxa occurring in small populations, often in specialised habitats, putting them at high risk of extinction. Despite significant taxonomic work over the past century, part of this diversity remains undescribed. The sheer size of the genus, its morphological, ecological and geographical variability, and the absence of a modern, consolidated revision make alpha taxonomy challenging. By combining traditional taxonomic methods, standard DNA sequencing methods building on openly available data matrices, and an openly available specialised taxonomic tool for the genus, we present an integrative, reproducible approach to alpha taxonomy in Erica. This approach provided support for the recognition of three new species from the Western Cape in South Africa and aided in ruling out two further putative new species, confirming one as a natural hybrid and the other as a morphological variation within an existing species. We describe the three new species Erica arida R.D.Hoekstra, Erica hessequae R.D.Hoekstra and Erica inopina J.H.J.Vlok.
["Cape Floristic Region"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Arundinella mainlingensis (Poaceae), a new species from Xizang, China
Arundinella mainlingensis (Poaceae), a new species from Xizang, China is described and illustrated. This new species forms a sister group relationship with A. yunnanensis on the molecular phylogenetic tree, sharing common morphological characteristics such as ligule extremely short, glumes glabrous and 4−5 mm long and lemma with an apical awn. Arundinella mainlingensis differs from A. yunnanensis in having stems with 3 or 4 nodes, clustered basal leaves, densely covered with tubercle-based hairs on the margins and the adaxial surface, less cauline leaves and lower florets that are male or neuter with short anthers about 1.2 mm long. Arundinella mainlingensis is primarily found in south-eastern Xizang, including Nyingchi, Mainling and Bomê, whereas A. yunnanensis is only observed in Gongshan, Yunnan. These differences further reinforce the classification of the two as distinct species.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant responses to water stress", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Taxonomic clarification of Silene dawoensis (Caryophyllaceae): synonymization with S. batangensis and reinstatement of S. longiuscula
Based on a comprehensive analysis of type materials, protologues, herbarium specimens, and field observations, this study clarifies the taxonomic status of Silene dawoensis and related species in China. Our findings reveal that S. dawoensis shares key similarities with S. batangensis, including leaf shape, inflorescence type, and calyx structure, and therefore we have placed S. dawoensis as a synonym of S. batangensis. Additionally, specimens historically misidentified as S. dawoensis are reassigned to S. markamensis, a species previously overlooked in regional floras. Concurrently, based on diagnostic differences in leaf shape, calyx length, and petal morphology, we reinstate S. longiuscula as a distinct species, previously treated as a synonym of S. dawoensis. Typification for S. batangensis and S. dawoensis is given. Descriptions, distribution maps, taxonomic notes, and morphological comparison table are provided for these three species.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

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

Exploration of Hiptage (Malpighiaceae) diversity in Vietnam reveals a new species with wingless fruits
Hiptage (Malpighiaceae) is a genus almost exclusively native to Asia, with a single species, Hiptage benghalensis, being a noxious invasive plant in several areas of the world and particularly threatening the native flora of the Mascarene Islands. Whereas 17 Hiptage species have been reported from Vietnam, there is currently no available genetic information that could be used to confirm the species diversity in the country. Through a study combining phylogenetic and morphological analyses of newly-collected samples and herbarium specimens, we were able to accurately identify five Hiptage species in Vietnam. One of these, Hiptage aptera, represents a species new to science. Specimens of the new species show white to slightly pink petals, erect to forward-curved petals, eight tiny calyx glands and wingless fruits, a unique feature within this genus. Our results strongly support Vietnam as one of the diversity centres of the Hiptage genus with 18 species out of the 48 species. Although we could not determine the source of introduction of Hiptage in the Mascarenes Archipelago, our findings highlight the genetic similarity of all Hiptage benghalensis samples collected in its secondary distribution areas, suggesting a probable single introduction. This is consistent with historical reports dating the plant’s introduction to the Mascarenes to the 18th century.

Three new species of Pleurothallis (Orchidaceae) from Costa Rica and Panama, with a note on asexual reproduction by prolification in Pleurothallidinae
Three new species of Pleurothallis, each exhibiting prolific vegetative growth, are described from Costa Rica and western Panama. Prolification refers to the development of a vegetative bud from the axil of a bract within the floral meristem, a frequent condition in the Pleurothallidinae, where it manifests as a new ramicaul developed from the apex of a previous ramicaul. Prolification can be either constitutive or facultative, the latter occurring mostly under stress-induced, non-optimal growing conditions. The three new species are found at high elevations, between 1400 and 2550 m, in humid, dense, mossy conditions on the Talamanca range, where they naturally produce prolific growths on the ramicaul apex that sever from the plant with time. Pleurothallis matrisilvae sp. nov. superficially resembles P. bothros, but may be distinguished by the prolific habit, thin ramicauls, typically bearing 1–2 open flowers, the longer flower segments, the lanceolate petals, and the black flecks on the pedicel, ovary, and external surface of the sepals. Pleurothallis pridgeoniana sp. nov. is similar to P. vinealis but distinguished by the significantly shorter plants and ramicauls, the much smaller yellow flowers with a rose to purple suffusion, and the triangular-ovate lip with glandular margins and lacking a central sulcus. Pleurothallis winkeliana sp. nov., closely resembles P. longipetala, but differs by the occasionally prolific plant that produces clumps of ramicauls, the comparatively broader, cordate leaves with overlapping basal lobes, the smaller flower, and the pendent lip, perpendicular to the column.
["Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Phylogenetic position, supplementary description and phytochemical analysis of Camellia hekouensis (Theaceae), a critically endangered tree native to Hekou, Yunnan, China
Camellia harbors unique diversity along Sino-Vietnamese border. Some species of them are under threat due to human activity. Camellia hekouensis, a native of Hekou, Yunnan, China, was once considered extinct as the previously known “last living tree” died in 2024. Fortunately, 11 in-situ and 32 ex-situ trees have been protected and propagated by the staff of Hekou Administration Branch of Dawei Mountain National Nature Reserve in Yunnan with their great unpublicized efforts. Molecular phylogenetic analysis suggests that C. hekouensis is nested in the main clade CI of Camellia and forms a clade with C. corallina, C. gracilipes and C. pubicosta, which are generally distributed in Vietnam. Morphological characters of the capsule and seed of C. hekouensis are supplementally described. The leaves of C. hekouensis contain 1.18 mg/g theobromine, which disagrees with the previous chemotaxonomic claim. Though the economic and ecological values are little known for C. hekouensis, the species should be conserved and propagated effectively and promptly to prevent extinction.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

A new species Erythrotrichia bohanensis sp. nov. (Erythropeltales, Rhodophyta) from the coast of China
Erythrotrichia (Erythropeltales, Rhodophyta) is a group of widely distributed marine epiphytic algae. With the advancement of molecular biology in recent years, the classification of this genus has undergone significant changes, revealing several morphologically indistinguishable cryptic species. In this study, we collected species of Erythrotrichia from the Bohai Sea coast of China, proposed a new species—Erythrotrichia bohanensis sp. nov. based on laboratory culture, morphological observation and molecular phylogenetic analysis. Phylogenetic analyses, including rbcL and SSU gene sequence analyses, demonstrated that Erythrotrichia bohanensis sp. nov. clusters into an independent branch with high Maximum Likelihood (ML) bootstrap values and Bayesian Inference phylogenies (BI) posterior probabilities. The new species is characterized by an unbranched, filamentous thallus and exhibits both asexual and sexual reproduction. The main morphological differences of the new species are primarily reflected in its sexual reproduction process. The carpogonium and spermatium are formed by the expansion and division of vegetative cells, and fertilization occurs outside the thallus. The establishment of this new species underscores the cryptic species diversity within this taxon and implies that additional morphological, molecular, and genetic information is essential for more precise species identification.
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Taxonomic clarifications, a new combination, and three new species of Neotropical Rinorea (Violaceae)
Based on findings of revisionary studies of Neotropical Rinorea, we propose several taxonomic novelties and clarifications in this study, including the description of three new species, a new combination, the placement of three species in synonymy, and updated descriptions of two poorly known species from South America. One of the new species, Rinorea idarragae, is described from Mesoamerica and belongs to R. sect. Rinorea. The two other new species are from South America and are placed in R. sect. Pubiflorae: Rinorea cardenasii occurs in the region of the western edge of the Guiana Shield in Colombia, and Rinorea pabongonzaleziorum is from the Amazon Basin in Colombia and Venezuela. Rinorea lindeniana var. fernandeziana is elevated to the rank of species, and Rinorea cordata, R. antioquiensis, and R. hymenosepala are synonymized under R. laurifolia, R. squamata, and R. ulmifolia, respectively. Finally, we provide updated descriptions of Rinorea deflexa from Ecuador and Peru and Rinorea bicornuta from Colombia and Brazil. For the three new species, we provide descriptions, illustrations, distribution maps, and preliminary conservation assessments based on IUCN Red List categories and criteria.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Primula longipes subsp. bayburtensis Sefali, Yapar & Demir (Primulaceae): A new taxon from north-eastern Anatolia, Türkiye
The new taxon, Primula longipes subsp. bayburtensis Sefali, Yapar & Demir, subsp. nov. (Primulaceae) is described and illustrated from Bayburt Province, Türkiye. It is morphologically assigned to Primula sect. Crystallophlomis based on its long scapes, lanceolate and denticulate leaf with long petiole and hairless habit, fruits longer than calyx and covered by farina on the scape. This new taxon is similar to Primula longipes and P. nivalis subsp. turkestanica; it can also be easily distinguished by its calyx divided ratio, thurm flowers (unwidened corolla tube shape and length) and capsules (length) futures.
["Crystallophlomis"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Two new tuberous species of Begonia (Begoniaceae) from Guangxi, China
Two new tuberous species of Begonia (Begoniaceae), Begonia angustibracteata D.K.Tian & R.C.Hu and B. baishishanensis R.C.Hu & D.K.Tian from Guangxi of China are described with illustrations. Begonia angustibracteata has sparsely hairy green leaves, undivided placenta, and a small bracteole at the top of the pedicel of pistillate flower. Begonia baishishanensis has sparsely hispidulous and unlobed leaves, bilaminate placenta and early flowering in March. The differences of these two new species are compared with their allied species, B. fimbristipula and B. danxiaensis. Their conservation status is assessed according to Guidelines for Using IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Begonia"]

Lonicera lanzhouensis (Caprifoliaceae), a new species from Gansu, Northwest China
Lonicera lanzhouensis (Caprifoliaceae), a new species from Lanzhou City, Gansu province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to L. webbiana in that it has a bilabiate corolla and a long peduncle. It differs by narrowly lanceolate leaves (vs. ovate to ovate-lanceolate), yellow-green corolla at the beginning and reddish-purple when mature (vs. purple-red) and long involucral bracts (vs. short). The new species is supported by the genetic differentiation and phylogenetic analysis based on ITS and the combined sequences of chloroplast psbA-trnH and matK fragments.
["Lonicera lanzhouensis"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

A new species of Begonia (Begoniaceae) from the eastern mountains of Panama
Begonia chucantiensis sp. nov. is described as a new species of Begonia section Lepsia from Cerro Chucantí, Darién Province, in eastern Panama. A study of the literature and herbarium specimens, as well as fieldwork, suggests that the new taxon is distinguished from other species in the section by the combination of the following characters: uniform nodes, stipules persistent, 3.3–6 × 0.8–1.7 cm leaf blades, only two flowers per inflorescence, 12–14 stamens, and fruits with wings of similar shape and size. Images, information on geographic distribution, habitat, and a preliminary assessment of the conservation status of the new species are also provided.
["Biogeographic isolation"]

Oreocharis corallodiscoides (Gesneriaceae, Trichosporeae, Didymocarpinae), a new species from Yunnan, southwest China
Oreocharis corallodiscoides, a new species of the tribe Trichosporeae (Gesneriaceae), is described and illustrated. This new species is characterized by its ovate, rounded or sometimes rhombic leaves densely covered with appressed hairs, yellow corolla, and the presence of two purple triangular appendages inside the base of the corolla tube. It is known only from the type locality, Luzhijiang dry-hot valley in Yimen county, central Yunnan, southwest China. A morphological comparison with its morphologically similar species (O. agnesiae and O. longifolia) is also presented.
["Dry-hot valley"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Four new species of Drymonia (Gesneriaceae) from South America: Tributes to inspirational leaders
Exploratory field expeditions and herbarium research have led to the discovery of four new species of Drymonia (Gesneriaceae), distinguished by laterally compressed corollas, elongate inflorescence axes, and a nomadic climbing habit. These species, found in Andean forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, are unique within the Gesneriaceae for bearing inflorescences on a leafless portion of the stem near the ground, while their foliage is restricted to the subcanopy. Named in honor of visionary and inspirational leaders dedicated to advancing conservation, science, and education, the new species are Drymonia clavijoae J.L.Clark, sp. nov., D. katzensteiniae J.L.Clark, sp. nov., D. rominieckiae J.L.Clark, sp. nov., and D. silvanae J.L.Clark, sp. nov.

Ormosia neillii (Fabaceae), a remarkable new tree species from the Cordillera del Cóndor plateaus in Ecuador
A new species, Ormosia neillii (Fabaceae), is described and illustrated from the tepui-like formations of the Cordillera del Cóndor Region in south-eastern Ecuador. Morphological similarities with other species of Ormosia are examined and discussed. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status of Endangered (EN) is recommended.
["Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Plant and soil sciences", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Eriolaena bacgiangensis (Malvaceae), a new species from Vietnam
The new species Eriolaena bacgiangensis from Vietnam is described and illustrated. The identified key was constructed to indicate the differences amongst three allied species of Eriolaena. E. bacgiangensis was compared with similar species, E. candollei and E. wallichii. E. bacgiangensis differs from E. candollei by the length of pedicel (1.4–2.3 cm long vs. 3.0–4.0 cm in E. candollei); presence of epicalyx after flowers at anthesis in E. bacgiangensis (vs. absence of epicalyx after flowers at anthesis in E. candollei); densely fringed epicalyx in E. bacgiangensis (vs. sparsely fringed epicalyx in E. candollei); style significantly exceeds staminal tube length in E. bacgiangensis, while the style is slightly longer than the staminal tube in E. candollei; the fruit apex round in E. bacgiangensis (vs. pointed and beaked in E. candollei). The linear epicalyx lobes are a key diagnostic trait for distinguishing E. bacgiangensis from E. wallichii (linear vs. ovate in E. wallichii). In addition, the other different characteristics of the two species are: leaf blade (not thickly papery in E. bacgiangensis vs. thickly papery in E. wallichii); length of inflorescences (13.0–18.0 cm in E. bacgiangensis vs. ≤ 6.0 cm in E. wallichii); shape of flower bud (lanceolate in E. bacgiangensis vs. globular in E. wallichii); fruit apex (round in E. bacgiangensis vs. apex shortly beaked in E. wallichii).
["Bac Giang"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Gastrodia microchila (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae), a new species from Brunei Darussalam
A new orchid species, Gastrodia microchila is described and illustrated. The species was found in a mixed dipterocarp forest in the Belait district, Brunei Darussalam, northern Borneo in 2024. It is distinct from most Gastrodia species in western Malesia by its small lip and column, and presence of the smooth cushion-like tissue on the inner side of lateral sepals. Gastrodia microchila is only the second species of Gastrodia recorded for Brunei Darussalam and the seventh known species for Borneo. A determination key for all Gastrodia species occurring in western Malesia is also provided.
["Biological and pharmacological studies of plants", "Plant and animal studies", "GABA and Rice Research"]

Taxonomic studies on the genus Hydrocotyle (Apiales) from China: The distribution and morphology of H. chiangdaoensis, with H. calcicola reduced to a synonym
Based on observations of living plants of Hydrocotyle calcicola in the field, together with examination of herbarium specimens and descriptions of both H. calcicola and H. chiangdaoensis (including type material), we demonstrated that H. calcicola is a synonym of H. chiangdaoensis. The species was previously compared with H. sibthorpioides; our phylogenetic analysis revealed that H. chiangdaoensis and H. sibthorpioides belong to different lineages, the former being closely related to the larger-leaved clade.
["Hydrocotyle"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Eumachia brevipedunculata (Rubiaceae, Palicoureeae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Eumachia brevipedunculata is a newly-identified species of the tribe Palicoureeae of Rubiaceae from Yunnan, China. It is morphologically similar to E. straminea, but differs by its smaller stipules, shorter petioles, smaller leaf blades, reduced inflorescences with shorter peduncles, axes and pedicels, longer calyx lobes, yellow-green flowers with shorter corolla tubes and shorter anthers. This species is widely found in southern Yunnan, but has long been misidentified as Psychotria. We clarify its taxonomic status and provide a description and illustration here.
["Flora"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Diving into Diversity: Haslea berepwari (Bacillariophyceae, Naviculaceae), a new species of marine diatom from New Caledonia
The current article introduces and describes Haslea berepwari sp. nov., a new species of diatom discovered in the vicinity of Boulouparis, New Caledonia. Under light microscopy, H. berepwari sp. nov. strongly resembles Haslea pseudostrearia, but preliminary molecular barcoding conducted using partial 18S and rbcL genes suggested that it was a distinct species. This was confirmed first by scanning electron microscopy which showed the differences in stria densities between both species. A short-reads genome-skimming protocol applied on H. berepwari sp. nov. led us to obtain its complete mitochondrial and plastid genomes. The mitogenome is 36,572 bp in length and as already observed among other species of Haslea spp., the nad6 and nad2 genes are fused within a single open-reading frame. The plastome is 131,897 bp length, and unlike the mitogenome, it is not colinear with those of H. pseudostrearia. The results derived from the sequencing of the plastome allowed to perform a 123-gene multigene maximum likelihood phylogeny that associates H. berepwari sp. nov. to H. pseudostrearia with maximum support at the nodes but also strictly distinguishes them, suggesting a greater genetic distance between these species than what has been previously observed between other marennine-producing species.
["Coral Sea"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Prunus zhuxiensis (Rosaceae), a new species from Hubei, China
In the present paper, we describe a new species, Prunus zhuxiensis (P. subg. Cerasus), from Hubei, China, based on long-term field observations. This species closely resembles P. serrulata in having corymbose-racemose or subumbellate inflorescences, hairy petiole, pedicel, involucral bracts and black drupes. However, P. zhuxiensis differs distinctly from P. serrulata by its sweet edible drupes (versus bitter, inedible drupes in P. serrulata), stipules 4-lobed at the base (versus linear stipules in P. serrulata), smaller bracts, shorter pedicels and styles pilose at the base (versus glabrous styles in P. serrulata). Furthermore, molecular phylogenetic analyses indicate that P. zhuxiensis and P. serrulata are placed in separate clades, supporting their distinction.
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Yushania rubrovaginata (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new combination for Sasa rubrovaginata
Sasa rubrovaginata is transferred to Yushania based on morphological and molecular evidence. The lectotype for S. rubrovaginata is designated. Besides, a revised description of this species and a key to the four Yushania species distributed in Cenwanlaoshan Mountain are also provided.
["Bamboo"]

Morphological and molecular evidence suggests that Indosasa gigantea and Acidosasa glauca (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Arundinarieae) are conspecific
Indosasa gigantea is a bamboo with great economical value, but its generic designation has been controversial for a long time. This study aims to ascertain whether I. gigantea belongs to Indosasa or Acidosasa, based on morphological and molecular evidence from both plastome and single-copy nuclear orthologous genes. The results of phylogenetic analyses, based on plastid genomes and nuclear gene sequences, both strongly supported that I. gigantea is distantly related to other members of Indosasa, but clustered with Acidosasa glauca, the type species of Acidosasa. Further morphological studies demonstrated that I. gigantea is conspecific with A. glauca. Thus, I. gigantea was proposed as a synonym of A. glauca. Colour plates as well as a detailed description of this species are also provided.
["Arundinarieae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Rice Cultivation and Yield Improvement"]

Studies of Vietnamese Pteridophyte Flora 3
This is the third paper in a series dedicated to updating the knowledge of the Vietnamese pteridophyte flora. Based on recent collections, we first reported three new national records of ferns: Haplopteris yakushimensis, Lindsaea kohkongensis, and Pteris pseudowulaiensis. Secondly, we conducted phylogenetic analyses to investigate the placements of Lindsaea kohkongensis and Leptochilus poilanei, each based on three plastid DNA markers. Our results revealed that Lindsaea kohkongensis is sister to L. ensifolia, while Leptochilus poilanei is embedded within L. cantoniensis. We discussed these results in the context of systematics. Lastly, we reported chromosome numbers for 20 fern species in Vietnam. For seven of these species, including Gymnosphaera salletii, Lepisorus spicatus, Leptochilus poilanei, Pteridrys costularis, Pteris latipinna, Pyrrosia eberhardtii, and Tectaria setulosa, these counts were recorded for the first time. Additionally, three new cytotypes were identified for Diplazium doederleinii, Pteris esquirolii, and Tectaria harlandii. This study underscores the need for more diverse data, including DNA sequences, chromosome numbers, and reproductive modes, to be collected and integrated into systematic studies and taxonomic treatments to enhance our understanding of Vietnam’s pteridophyte flora.
["Chromosome number"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Caloneis nanyiensis sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta) from Nanyi Lake of Anhui Province, China
A new species, Caloneis nanyiensis sp. nov., is described from Nanyi Lake, the largest lake in southern Anhui Province, China. Observations were made using a light and scanning electron microscope documenting the size, shape and ultrastructure of the new species. Caloneis nanyiensis sp. nov. has rhombic valves with acutely rounded apices. The raphe is narrow and arched. An internal axial plate covers the alveoli, leaving small marginal openings bordered by costa, thickened and raised from the valve face. The striae are slightly radiate to parallel in the central area, becoming radiate towards the apices. By comparing the new species with similar Caloneis species, C. nanyiensis sp. nov. was confirmed to be sufficiently different with respect to valve size and striae density to be recognised as new to science. The new species lives in freshwater habitats and epiphytic on Cladophora. The discovery enhances our knowledge of the diversity of freshwater diatoms in China.
["Axial area"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Sinocrassula obliquifolia (Crassulaceae), a new species from China
Based on a comprehensive morphological and molecular data analysis, we have confirmed and described a new species within the genus Sinocrassula, which is distributed in Sichuan Province, China. Morphologically, the new species resembles Sinocrassula diversifolia and S. indica, but it is distinctly different from them in its asymmetrical leaves, leaf apex with glands, triangular petals that are white at the base and adorned with dense purple-red stripes and spots on the surfaces upward, and rectangular nectar scales. A phylogenetic analysis utilizing four plastid markers and one nuclear marker supports the conclusion that the new species is sister to S. ganluoensis.
["Hengduan mountains"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

Festuca silana (Poaceae), a new species from the Sila plateau in Italy
A new hexaploid species of fine-leaved fescue from Festuca sect. Festuca (Festuca silana Ardenghi, Pallanza & Foggi, sp. nov.) endemic to the Sila plateau is described. The new taxon shows morphological affinities with species of the F. marginata group from which it can be distinguished by higher ploidy, ecology, and leaf cross section anatomy. ddRADseq data suggests F. silana could be a local hexaploid descendant/derivate of the widespread diploid F. marginata. Its distribution is restricted to several localities in the Sila highlands of the Southern Apennines, Italy.
["Calabria"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Syzygium triflorum (Myrtaceae), a new species from Vietnam
Syzygium triflorum T.T.Hoang, Kim Thanh, S.Tagane & D.H.Cuong, sp. nov., from Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve, Vietnam, is described and illustrated. The new species is distinguished from related species, Syzygium skiophilum, by its having 4-angled and reddish-grey twigs, oblong leaves with an attenuate apex, less secondary veins of 26–30 pairs, exclusively axillary inflorescences, lanceolate-ovate bracts, sessile flowers, obconical hypanthium (slightly pyriform in flower buds) and more stamens of 18–28. The flowers and fruits were observed in the rainy season, July 2024. This new species grows under a mixed broad-leaved and coniferous forest dominated by Dacrydium elatum and Dacrycarpus imbricatus.
["Flora"]
["Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Morphological and phylogenetic analysis approach to three new species and a new section of Astragalus (Fabaceae) from Mongolia
Astragalus L. is the largest genus worldwide, comprising more than 3,100 species belonging to 250 sections. In Mongolia, approximately 130 species, including 15 endemic and 25 subendemic species have been previously recognized from 42 sections and 6 subgenera. In this study, we investigated several species within section Laguropsis in Mongolia based on extensive morphological analyses and molecular evidence. Based on these results, we describe three new species and a new section. Two of the newly described species, A. oyunicus and A. teshigicus, belong to the section Laguropsis, whereas the remaining species, A. uvsicus, is the type species of the new section Uvsicus. Furthermore, our findings revealed that (i) A. tamiricus, previously considered endemic to Mongolia, is an additional synonym of A. laguroides, and (ii) A. gobi-altaicus, previously a synonym of A. laguroides, is an independent species. Finally, we provide taxonomic nomenclature, morphological observations, distribution maps and wild photo illustrations of each species.
["Astragalus"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Sinosasa damingshanensis (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new combination supported by morphological and molecular evidence
Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses clearly revealed that Chimonobambusa damingshanensis should be a member of the genus Sinosasa, rather than Chimonobambusa, and is a distinct species close to Sinosasa huapingensis and S. mingyueshanensis. Morphologically, it differs from all the other known Sinosasa species by internodes initially with white pubescent, culm leaf auricles absent and triangularly subulate sheath blades, characteristics that are unusual in this genus. And this morphological distinction warrants recognition of Ch. damingshanensis as a new combination of Sinosasa.
["Arundinarieae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Rice Cultivation and Yield Improvement"]

Lagerstroemia yangchunensis (Lythraceae), a new species from Guangdong, China
A new species from southern China, Lagerstroemia yangchunensis B.H.Wu & G.D.Chen, sp. nov., is described in the present paper. This species is morphologically similar to L. duperreana Pierre ex Gagnep., but can be distinguished by its coarse bark with vertical fissures, calyx lobes glabrous inside, and flowers with shorter pseudopedicels and petals with longer claws. Detailed morphological characteristics, habitat information, and comparisons with similar species are provided.
["Crape myrtle"]

Pollen and morphometric analysis reveal Solanum tavinuuyuku (Solanaceae), a new dioecious species from Mesoamerican Solanum sect. Anarrhichomenum
Solanum tavinuuyuku, of the Sierra Madre del Sur ecoregion of South-Central Mexico, is a viny, node-rooting species of the Potato clade, in the subclade Solanum sect. Anarrhichomenum. Solanum tavinuuyuku is distinguished from its relatives by possessing long and narrow, lanceolate, ovate to falcate, 1–3-foliate leaves with (5–)7–10 secondary veins; large, persistent pseudo-stipules found at nearly every node on herbarium material; and white, violet-tinged corollas particularly pronounced in the floral bud. Solanum tavinuuyuku is functionally dioecious, producing functional, tricolporate pollen and non-functional, inaperturate pollen in short and long-styled flowers, respectively, joining its close relative S. appendiculatum as one of only two documented dioecious species in the entire Potato clade. Separation of S. tavinuuyuku from its closest ally, the simple-leaved S. ionidium, is based on morphometric and geographic evidence presented here.
["Dioecy"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

A new cherry species (Prunus, Rosaceae) from south-western Ecuador
Prunus luxurians, a new species from Buenaventura Reserve at El Oro province in Ecuador is described and illustrated. Additionally, notes on its geographical distribution, ecology, conservation status, and taxonomic affinities are documented. Prunus luxurians has some vegetative and floral similarities with other Andean species, but the unique combination of oblong-lanceolate leaves with prominent secondary and tertiary veins, densiflorous floriferous shoots less than 5 cm long, sepals with two marginal glands and flowers with turbinate hypanthium clearly differentiates it from the rest. This is the first species of Prunus described from the western flank at elevation below 1500 m, and particularly from a humid spot surrounded by dry areas (Tumbesian influence). Other taxonomic novelties of Prunus on this flank can be expected, so further botanical exploration is needed to better understand the diversity of the genus in the region.
["Buenaventura Reserve"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Plant and animal studies", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Somnuekia flaviflora (Malvaceae, Brownlowioideae), a new genus and species from Thailand
Somnuekia is described as a new genus of Malvaceae, currently known only from a few locations in the upper part of Tenasserim in northern and peninsular Thailand. Morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on plastid DNA sequence regions, support the recognition of this new genus within the Brownlowioideae (Malvaceae). Its distinct phylogenetic position, along with a distinct set of morphological and palynological characteristics, strongly support the recognition of Somnuekia as a new genus. A formal description of Somnuekia flaviflora is provided along with illustrations, photographs, a distribution map and conservation notes. Furthermore, this new genus is compared to other Asian genera within the subfamily.

Impatiens maolanensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species of Impatiens in a tiankeng from Guizhou, China
Impatiens maolanensis Z.B.Xiong & Q.Y.Wen (Balsaminaceae), a new species of Impatiens subg. Clavicarpa from Maolan National Nature Reserve, Guizhou, China, is described. The new species grows in a tiankeng (a large, naturally formed pit) connected to a dried-up underground river. I. maolanensis is similar to I. auriculata Chang Y. Xia & S. X. Yu, I. liboensis K. M. Liu & R. P. Kuang and I. tianlinensis S. X. Yu & L. J. Zhang, but differs from the latter three species in terms of orange-red flowers, roots, stems, bracts, dorsal petals, lateral sepals, lower sepals, pollen grains and seeds micromorphology. The micromorphological characteristics and surface patterning of pollen grains and seeds of the new species were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Pollen grains of I. maolanensis are triangular-round in polar view and elliptical in equatorial view. The pollen exine has an irregular and relatively smooth reticulate ornamentation, and under high magnification, granular protrusions can be observed. Seeds of I. maolanensis are black and narrowly ellipsoid. The seed coat has reticulate ornamentation with slightly sunken meshes, folded base, and granular protrusions within the meshes. Morphological and micromorphology evidence support the establishment of the new species. Our study provides detailed information on the new species, including morphological characteristics, phenology, photographs, palynology, seed micromorphology, etymology, habitat and distribution, and conservation assessment.

Thismia aliasii (Thismiaceae), a new species from Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia
A new mycoheterotrophic species, Thismia aliasii, is described and illustrated. This species inhabits a hill dipterocarp forest in mountains of eastern Peninsular Malaysia. Thismia aliasii differs from other Thismia species by the following features: tepals equal in size and shape with different length of their appendages, appendages of the outer tepals shorter than those of the inner tepals (3.5 mm vs. ca. 26–32 mm long), stamen supraconnective at apex with three long filiform appendages and two acute appendages, and the margins of individual connectives abaxially raised into a conspicuous rib. With respect to floral morphology, T. aliasii should be placed to Thismia subsect. Odoardoa. According to the categories and criteria of the IUCN Red List, T. aliasii is provisionally classified as Critically Endangered (CR).
["Achlorophyllous plants"]

Pyrus zhaoxuanii (Rosaceae), A new pear species from Danxiashan Mountain, Guangdong, China
Pyrus zhaoxuanii is described as a new species from Guangdong Province, China, within the genus Pyrus, specifically under P. subg. Pashia. Although it shares morphological similarities with P. calleryana, P. zhaoxuanii can be distinguished by its uniquely small, obovate, leathery leaves, which have an obtuse apex and short petioles. A phylogenetic analysis based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) indicated that P. zhaoxuanii forms an independent branch within Pyrus and is categorized in the Oriental clade, P. subg. Pashia. Currently, this species has only been recorded in the Danxiashan National Nature Reserve. Considering its potential distribution and population size, we recommend classifying this species as Least Concern (LC) according to the IUCN Red List classifications and criteria.
["Danxia landscape"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Physiology and Cultivation Studies"]

A realigned taxonomy for the Schiedea kauaiensis – S. perlmanii species pair (Caryophyllaceae) based on recent collections and new analyses that require nomenclatural changes for both species
The Kaua‘i species Schiedea kauaiensis H. St. John was previously characterized by a geographical range including a number of Napali Coast valleys and the Limahuli, Wainiha, and Manoa valleys in the northern part of the island whereas the closely related S. perlmanii W. L. Wagner & Weller occurs in the Anahola area and on Ha‘upu on the windward (eastern) side of Kaua‘i. The primary characteristic distinguishing them is a subshrub habit for S. kauaiensis vs a vining habit in S. perlmanii. In several localities from northern Kaua‘i including Limahuli, Wainiha, and Manoa valleys, populations were known only from herbarium specimens but were included within S. kauaiensis in part because these localities were closest to the Napali Coast valleys, which encompasses the remainder of the range of the species. Recent field work resulting in discovery of new populations and cultivation of plants from Limahuli and Manoa has shown that plants from these three northern localities do not represent S. kauaiensis but rather fit with S. perlmanii. Two of the collections from this northern area are the types of S. wichmanii H. St. John and S. kauaiensis. Since these names were published earlier, we must adopt here the earliest name, S. kauaiensis, for the plants formerly known as S. perlmanii leaving the species from the Napali Coast valleys without a name and described here as a new species, S. napaliensis W. L. Wagner & Weller.
["Caryophyllaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Primulina nanlingensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from the Limestone Karst of Guangdong, China
Primulina nanlingensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from the Karst of Guangdong, China, is described and illustrated. This species is morphologically similar to P. versicolor, but can be distinguished by its larger crenate-margined leaves, fewer flowers per cyme and overall cyme number, ovate-lanceolate bracts with shallow serrations, calyx lobes with 1–3 teeth per side, stamens densely glandular at base and tip and pistil densely glandular-puberulent. It also resembles P. pengii, but has significant differences in its longer corolla, pale yellow corolla colour and ovate-lanceolate bracts. Phylogenetic analyses with ITS and trnL-F sequences revealed that P. nanlingensis is sister to P. versicolor and P. pengii, but isolated from its morphological relatives. The phylogenetic and morphological relationships with similar species are discussed, including detailed descriptions, photographs and distribution information. According to the IUCN Red List Criteria, the new species is assessed as Near Threatened [NT].
["Gesneriaceae"]

Camellia shuangbaiensis (Theaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
A new species of the genus Camellia (Theaceae), Camellia shuangbaiensis G.P.Yang & B.H.Wu, sp. nov., from the central region of Yunnan Province of China is described. Camellia shuangbaiensis is morphologically similar to C. mileensis and C. hongkongensis, but it can be distinguished by its smaller leaves with an ovate, abaxially tomentose lamina, and 14–16 bracteoles and sepals.
["Camellia"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Phragmotheca centinelensis (Malvaceae, Malvoideae or Matisioideae), a newly-discovered, endangered canopy tree species from a cloud forest in Pacific Ecuador
During floristic inventories in remnant cloud forests of the Centinela Ridge of the Chocó Region of Ecuador, where less than 7 km2 of forest patches remain across an area of approximately 500 km2, we recently collected a new species in the genus Phragmotheca Cuatrec. We describe and illustrate this new species and contrast its morphology with known congeneric species. Due to its small range, threatened habitat and active targeting by loggers, this species is assessed as Endangered under IUCN Criterion B1B2ab(I,ii,iii,v).
["Biological collections"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Ferula groessingii (Apiaceae), a new synonym of Ferula licentiana var. tunshanica
A comprehensive evaluation of the diagnostic characters employed in distinguishing Ferula groessingii from F. licentiana var. tunshanica has led to the conclusion that the two taxa are indeed conspecific. As a result, F. groessingii is hereby recognized as a new synonym of F. licentiana var. tunshanica. This reclassification is supported by a comprehensive comparison of taxonomic features, morphological evidence, and distribution data. The study confirms that key morphological traits including plant height, a hairy coat of stems and leaves, number of inflorescences, and fruit vittae, are critical for the identification of this species complex.
["Apiaceae"]
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases"]

Decussiphycus sinensis sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Mastogloiales) – a new species described from China, with comments on phylogenetic position of the genus
During the study of freshwater diatom communities in Hainan Province, China, we uncovered an unknown diatom species of the genus Decussiphycus, which is described as Decussiphycus sinensis sp. nov. herein. The description is based on LM and SEM investigations; morphologically, the new species is compared to other taxa belonging to the genus. We complemented the description with the results of a molecular analysis based on SSU rDNA and rbcL sequencing. Molecular data is acquired for Decussiphycus for the first time. Hereby, we discuss the phylogenetic relationships between this genus and its closest allies – Aneumastus and Mastogloia, demonstrating the affinity of Decussiphycus within the order Mastogloiales.
["Bacillariophyceae"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Chelonopsis guchengensis, a new species of Lamiaceae from Hubei Province in Central China
Chelonopsis is a small genus endemic to East Asia. In this study, a new species, C. guchengensis, from Nanhe National Nature Reserve, Gucheng County, Hubei Province is described and illustrated. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on two nuclear ribosomal DNA regions (ETS and ITS) and five plastid DNA markers (trnL intron, trnL-trnF, trnS-trnG, psbA-trnH, and rps16) were carried out to explore the phylogenetic position of the new species. A close relationship between the new species and C. giraldii is supported by molecular phylogenetic and morphological evidence. However, the two species can be easily distinguished from each other by mostly leaf and inflorescence morphology.
["Central China"]

Neotrinia kurramica (Poaceae, Stipeae), a new species from Parachinar (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan)
The family of grasses (Poaceae) is one of the most diverse plant families, with the tribe Stipeae representing an ecologically significant group of more than 600 species primarily distributed in arid and semi-arid regions. The genus Neotrinia, a lesser-known member of this tribe, is characterised by unique morphological traits, including distinctive patterns of lemma epidermis. During field studies in the upper Kurram Valley, Pakistan, we found a new species, Neotrinia kurramica, which is described here. This perennial grass exhibits distinct morphological features, that differentiate it from previously known species. It is characterised by having up to 8.5 mm long ligules of cauline leaves, up to 15 cm long panicles bearing up to 41 spikelets, subequal glumes, lemma bearing two apical lobes, palea almost equal to lemma, 0.9–1.2 mm long obtuse callus and 50–70 mm long scabrid awns. Figures illustrating the new taxon and a comparison of distinguishing characters of the species representing the genus Neotrinia are presented.
["Lemma micromorphology"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Rangeland Management and Livestock Ecology", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

A new species of Sedum (Crassulaceae) from eastern China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Sedum orientalichinense, a new species of Crassulaceae from eastern China, is described and illustrated here. Phylogenetic analysis based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nrDNA suggests that the new species belongs to S. sect. Sedum sensu Fu and Ohba (2001) in the “Flora of China”, and is sister to S. makinoi with high support values (BS = 100, PP = 1). The new species was previously always misidentified as S. makinoi, S. emarginatum or S. baileyi, due to its opposite leaves. Sedum emarginatum can be easily distinguished by its leaf blades with the apex emarginate in which it differs from the other three species. Sedum orientalichinense usually has 2-branched cymes, unlike S. makinoi which is 2- to 4-branched. The new species further differs from S. makinoi in its obovate to obovate-rhombic leaf blades (vs. obovate to obovate-spatulate in the latter) and has shorter stems (6–18 cm vs. 11–28 cm) with less internodes. It can also be easily distinguished from S. baileyi by its slender to sub-woody suberect stems (vs. slender and erect stems) and larger plant height (6–18 cm vs. 3–7 cm).
["Eastern China"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

A revision of the endemic Brazilian Solanum hexandrum group (Leptostemonum, Solanum, Solanaceae)
The Leptostemonum Clade, or the ‘spiny solanums’, represents half of the species diversity of the large cosmopolitan genus Solanum (Solanaceae). Brazil is a centre of both species and lineage diversity in ‘spiny solanums’ with a number of lineages occurring mostly only there. Here, we treat the Solanum hexandrum group, a monophyletic species group that is part of the larger and unresolved Erythrotrichum clade sensu lato. The six species treated here are all robust very prickly shrubs with amongst the largest and showiest flowers in Solanum and accrescent calyces in fruit that often completely cover the mature berry. All six species are endemic to the coastal Atlantic forests of south-eastern and north-eastern Brazil. We describe one new species, S. phrixothrix Gouvêa & S.Knapp, sp. nov., known only from two collections made 200 years apart. Many of the species in the group occur in very small populations around isolated gneissic/granitic inselbergs, a highly threatened habitat in the region. We provide complete nomenclatural details for all recognised species and their synonyms, complete descriptions, distributions including maps, illustrations, common names and uses and preliminary conservation assessments.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Rorippa daguanensis (Brassicaceae), a new species from eastern China
Rorippa daguanensis W.Zhang & K.Zhao (Brassicaceae), a new species from Anhui and Hubei Provinces of eastern China, is described. Its floral morphology resembles R. dubia, with its fruit morphology similar to R. cantoniensis. However, it can be readily distinguished from R. dubia by its inconspicuous stems, oval silicle and from R. cantoniensis by the absence of petals and bracts on its flowers. The complete plastid genome of this new species is 155,594 bp in length. Phylogenetic analyses, based on whole plastid genome sequences of Rorippa species, revealed that R. daguanensis is sister to R. cantoniensis.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The rediscovery of Ohwia luteola (Fabaceae, Papilionoideae) after 50 years and comparative analysis of Ohwia species in plastid genome sequence
Ohwia luteola (H. Ohashi & T. Nemoto) H. Ohashi is only known from one collection in Yunnan Province, China. It has not been recollected since its last collection in 1972. Here, we report the rediscovery of the species that means the first new record in Hunan Province, China. Based on fresh material, we present a revised morphological description of O. luteola and conducted sequencing and assembly of the plastid genome. Morphologically, O. luteola is similar to O. caudata, but the former can be easily distinguished by leaflets length/width ratio ranging from 2.5 to 3.6, leaflets apex acute (with an angle of 50°–80°), terminal inflorescences, wings distinctly auriculate at base and inner side indistinctly rugose, and hilum center not over 3/5 length of seed. Molecular phylogenetic analysis confirmed O. luteola is sister to O. caudata.
["Desmodieae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Grewia kentingensis (Malvaceae, Grewioideae), a new species from Taiwan
Grewia kentingensis Y.H. Tseng, Chih Y.Chang & C.Y.Lin, sp. nov., a new species found on elevated coral reefs in southern Taiwan, is described. The species was previously misidentified as G. piscatorum Hance. Grewia kentingensis differs from G. piscatorum in its habit (procumbent vs. erect to ascending shrub), leaf length (<2 cm vs. up to 7 cm), breeding system (gynodioecious vs. trioecious), smaller flower diameter, fewer stamens, and smaller pollen grains. Color photographs, line drawings, and pollen images of the new species are provided. Additionally, a lectotype for G. piscatorum is designated and an identification key for the Grewia taxa of Taiwan is presented.
["Critically endangered"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

The genus Plagiothecium (Plagiotheciaceae) in Europe — current state of knowledge, checklist and key to taxa
This manuscript presents current knowledge of the taxonomy, variability and distribution of taxa of the genus Plagiothecium in Europe. Currently the genus comprises 31 taxa: 17 species and 14 varieties. In this study I designated 10 lectotypes and proposes six new synonyms for the described taxa, in addition five new nomenclatural combinations: P. denticulatum var. pseudosylvaticum, P. denticulatum var. pungens, P. laetum var. hercinicum, P. succulentum var. cryptarum, and P. sylvaticum var. immersum. Detailed descriptions and distribution data for each taxon, illustrations highlighting key taxonomic features and a diagnostic key are also provided to facilitate the identification of individual taxa.
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Viola xinchengensis (Violaceae), a new species from central Guangxi, China
Viola xinchengensis (Violaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China, is established on the basis of morphological and molecular evidence. This new species resembles V. lucens, but differs from the latter by its stipules margin long fimbriate-dentate (vs. fimbriate-dentate), stolon absent (vs. stolon slender, often producing a new plant at the top) and sepals 4–6 mm, glabrous (vs. 2.5–3 mm, villous). Viola xinchengensis is similar to V. fargesii, but it can be easily distinguished by its pedicels sparsely white villous (vs. densely spreading white puberulous), stolon absent (vs. stolon longer, elongated, puberulous, sometimes stem-like) and sepals 4–6 mm, glabrous (vs. 7–9 mm, puberulous). Our morphology analysis confirms that the new species belongs to V. sect. Plagiostigma subsect. Diffusae. Photographs, an illustration, a distribution map and comparisons with the most similar species are also provided.
["Biochemical and Structural Characterization", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Bambusa rushunii (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Bambuseae), a new bamboo species from Guangdong, China
A new bamboo species, Bambusa rushunii, from Yangjiang City, Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated in this paper. The new species resembles B. gibba and B. dissimulator in having branchlets specialised into weak thorns at the lower nodes of culms, but can be easily distinguished from the latter two by having one or two extremely shortened internodes at the culm base, glabrous internode, culm leaf sheath being dark brown strigose on the central part and with a nearly truncate or slightly obliquely truncate apex, relatively high culm leaf ligule, culm leaf blade base not narrowed, extending outwards and contiguous with auricles and the glabrous foliage leaf with a ciliate ligule margin.
["Bambusa"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications"]

Columnea golondrinensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Cerro Golondrinas in the northern Andes of Ecuador
Exploratory field expeditions to the Chocó forests in the northern Andes of Ecuador resulted in the discovery of a new species of Columnea (Gesneriaceae). Columnea golondrinensis J.L.Clark, sp. nov., is described as a narrow endemic from the cloud forests of Cerro Golondrinas in the Carchi Province near the northern Ecuadorian border with Colombia. The oval leaves with a rust-colored multicellular hispid indumentum, terrestrial subwoody habit and deeply bilabiate dark purple corollas with glandular trichomes differentiate this taxon from all other congeners. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status of Vulnerable (VU) is provided for C. golondrinensis.

A synopsis of Christiana DC. (Malvaceae, Brownlowioideae), with a new species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
A taxonomic synopsis is provided for the genus Christiana, with emphasis on the American species. Full synonymies, typifications, comments about distribution, and notes on main diagnostic characteristics, as well as conservation status and phenology, are provided. We describe a new species, C. restingae T.S. Cout., Barb.Silva & Dorr, sp. nov. With this addition, Christiana now comprises six species, with its center of richness in South America, where five species occur. The new species is endemic to Brazil where it is known only from Atlantic Forest and Restinga in the states of Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro, and is preliminarily assessed as Critically Endangered. Illustrations, images, a distribution map, SEM images of vegetative and reproductive structures, taxonomic comments, and information about the ecology and conservation of C. restingae are provided. Furthermore, the distribution and introduction of C. africana in the Americas is discussed. A total of eight names of Christiana species or synonyms described in four other genera (Berrya, Carpodiptera, Entelea, and Speirostyla) are lectotypified.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant and animal studies"]

Schnabelia jiuzhaigouensis (Lamiaceae, Ajugoideae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Schnabelia jiuzhaigouensis C. Liu, F. Zhao & C.L. Xiang, a new species from north-eastern Sichuan, China, is described, based on both morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence. Morphologically, the new species is mostly similar to S. terniflora, but can be readily distinguished by its habit, ovate to lanceolate-ovate leaf blades, the presence of 5–8 lateral veins on each side of the mid-rib and distinct characteristics of the floral structure, including oblong upper lip and lateral lobes of the lower lip, with the middle lobe being cuneate. In addition, the nutlets are puberulent and lack reticulate venation. Molecular phylogenetic analyses place the new species at a basal position within the genus Schnabelia. The new species is categorised as Data Deficient (DD) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. A key to all species of Schnabelia is also provided.
["Ajugeae"]

Persicaria zhenaiguoi (Polygonaceae, Persicarieae), an overlooked new species from Dabie Mountains, central China
Persicaria zhenaiguoi Bo Li, a remarkable new species discovered from the summit of Tiantangzhai Peak of Dabie Mountains in Hubei Province, central China, is described and illustrated. Based on its spicate inflorescences, ciliate ocreae, and the absence of prickles, the species is placed in P. sect. Persicaria. Within this section, P. zhenaiguoi most resembles P. orientalis and P. viscosa in gross morphology, particularly in the presence of densely spreading villus throughout. However, the new species can be easily distinguished from these two similar taxa by its nearly sessile leaves, which are lanceolate in shape with broadly cuneate to rounded bases, membranous ocrea with a small circle of green leaf-like wing, sparse and interrupted inflorescences, glabrous peduncles, greenish tepals, and ovoid achenes with grooved surfaces. Diagnostic characteristics, along with comparative photographs of the three related species, are provided, as well as a detailed morphological description and information on the distribution and habitat of the new species.
["Buckwheat family"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Euonymus pushpagiriensis (Celastraceae), a new species from the central Western Ghats of Karnataka, India
Euonymus pushpagiriensis sp. nov., an understorey tree species from the montane (Shola) forests of Kodagu District of Karnataka is described and illustrated. The species is morphologically distinct from all other species of Euonymus reported from the Western Ghats and the rest of India, in having sub-sessile, ovate leaves with rounded to sub-cordate leaf base. This species is, so far, known from the Kodagu District of the State of Karnataka.
["Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Natural Compounds in Disease Treatment", "Pharmacological Effects of Medicinal Plants"]

A new species of Sedum (Crassulaceae, Saxifragineae) from Guangxi, China
A new species, Sedum guangxiense sp. nov., discovered in Guangxi Province, China, is described and illustrated. Molecular phylogenetic analyses and morphological differences indicate that this species is well separated from its close relatives in Sedum, justifying its recognition as a distinct new species. Morphologically, it closely resembles Sedum tosaense and S. emarginatum in its leaf shape, inflorescence type and life form, but it can be easily distinguished in its erect stems when young, much larger leaves, narrowly triangular petals, ovate nectar scales and oblong anthers.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Phytochemistry and Bioactivity Studies"]

Orobanche andryalae (Orobanchaceae): a new species from the Canary Islands
A new species of Orobanche is described from the Canary Islands. The plant belongs to the complicated Subsection Minores and has a distinct combination of morphological features, ecology, and host specificity. The markedly cernuous corolla, high filament insertion and colouration distinguishes Orobanche andryalae from closely related species with which it has been previously confused, and which do not occur in the Canary Islands, including O. amethystea subsp. castellana and O. calendulae; these features remain stable in cultivation. Orobanche andryalae appears to be parasitic almost exclusively on Andryala spp., and occurs on thermophilus volcanic substrates in northern Lanzarote, northwest Tenerife and Jandía in Fuerteventura. An updated key to the Orobanche of the Canary Islands is presented, including the new taxon we describe here.
["Andryala"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Taxonomic revision and phylogenetic relationships of Thinouia (Sapindaceae), a neotropical genus
A taxonomic revision of Thinouia (Sapindaceae) is presented, including typification and descriptions for all accepted species. Phylogenetic analyses based on molecular data confirm that the genus is monophyletic and suggest two main clades with T. cazumbensis sister to the other species of the genus. Thirteen species of Thinouia are accepted, including a new species from Amazonia. The genus is distributed across continental tropical America, with its highest diversity found in South America. Its species can be distinguished by morphological details of leaves, indumentum, inflorescences, flowers, and fruits. We present a comprehensive review of the morphology and geographical distribution of the genus, along with an identification key, distribution maps, conservation risk assessments, illustrations, and comments on the ecology and taxonomy for all species, gathered from the literature and fieldwork.
["Lianas"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

No end to endemism – contributions to the difficult Nasa Weigend Series Alatae (Loasaceae). A new species from Peru and the rehabilitation of “ Loasa” calycina Benth.
A new species of Nasa ser. Alatae (Urban & Gilg) Weigend from Northern Peru is described and illustrated. Nasa katjae sp. nov. was at first encountered by an observation on iNaturalist and subsequently collected in the humid Andean forests near Colasay in the province of Jaén (Cajamarca, Peru). Whilst comparing the new species with closely related Nasa loxensis (Kunth) Weigend, a taxon widespread in Southern Ecuador (and tentatively adjacent Peru), a reevaluation of the status of earlier synonymized Loasa calycina Benth. became necessary. Consequently, Nasa calycina comb. nov. is rehabilitated at species level and Nasa loxensis is redefined.
["Amotape-Huancabamba Zone"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Primula yanbianensis (Primulaceae), a new species in Primula sect. Cortusoides from Sichuan, China
Primula yanbianensis T.Shuai, Lei Cai & Z.K.Wu, a new species of Primulaceae from Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphological evidence supports P. yanbianensis as a member of P. sect. Cortusoides, which is characterised by lack of farina, generally well furnished with multicellular hairs, subrounded leaf blades are more or less lobed, with distinct petiole and a deeply cordate base and campanulate or narrowly campanulate calyx not accrescent after anthesis. The new species is characterised by having umbel in whorls of 1–2, scape usually lower than leaf clusters, bracts broadly ovate and rose to pink petals distinctly veined. The distribution, morphological comparison with closely-related species and conservation status of the new species are also provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Two new species of Ocotea (Lauraceae) with clustered leaves from the Uxpanapa region, Mexico
Two new species of Ocotea (Lauraceae) from Southern Mexico are described and illustrated. Based on their floral morphology, vegetative indument, and micromorphological attributes, both species are circumscribed within the Ocotea helicterifolia group. Within this clade, the two species are morphologically similar to those with clustered leaves. Both species are endemic to the species-rich yet fragmented forests of the Uxpanapa region in Mexico, and therefore, their populations are threatened. Here, the morphological similarities of both species and their conservation status are discussed.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Petrocodon curvitubus, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guangxi, China
A new species of Gesneriaceae, Petrocodon curvitubus J.X.Wei, B.Pan & T.Ding, sp. nov. from Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to P. lui and P. tenuitubus, but can be easily distinguished by its elliptic to oblong-ovate leaves, corollas with two purple longitudinal stripes, and conical ovary.

Spiradiclis scorpiura (Rubiaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Spiradiclis scorpiura (Rubiaceae), a new calcareous species found in Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is similar to S. coccinea, S. scabrida, and S. purpureocaerulea in having pubescent stems and subglobose capsules, but it is easily distinguished by its cincinnous inflorescence and its triangular, 1–2 mm long, pubescent bracteoles. According to the IUCN criteria, it is considered Data Deficient (DD) until more information becomes available. Photographs, an illustration, a distribution map, and a comparative table with the most similar species are provided.
["Daxin County"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

Gastrochilus obovatifolius (Orchidaceae, Aeridinae), a new species from the Daba Mountains of Chongqing, China
Gastrochilus obovatifolius, a new species discovered in the Dabashan of northeast Chongqing (China), is described and illustrated. The novelty morphologically resembles G. affinis, G. balangshanensis and G. heminii in having a glabrous and smooth epichile. but can be distinguished by the unique obovate shape of the leaves, smaller epichile, and flower color. The results of molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on nuclear ribosome internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and four chloroplast DNA fragments (matK, psbA–trnH, psbM–trnD, and trnL–F) of 55 Gastrochilus species, support the inclusion of G. obovatifolius in G. sect. Microphylli, being most closely related to G. balangshanensis from Sichuan. The new species is a trunk epiphyte in evergreen broad-leaved forest.
["Epidendroideae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Typhonium morangense (Araceae), a new species from the tropical forest of Eastern Nepal
A new species of the aroid genus Typhonium Schott has been discovered in Eastern Nepal. This species, named Typhonium morangense R.Ojha & S.Rai, is described based on comparative morphological examinations with closely related species from the Indian subcontinent. The new species is currently known only from Pathari Shanishchare Municipality in the Morang district of Eastern Nepal. It is the second species of Typhonium observed in Nepal, and the only one endemic to the country. A detailed description, color plate, geographic distribution, phenology, and morphological comparison of the new species with morphologically close species are provided. Given its restricted range and the low number of individuals observed in the wild, this species requires special attention from conservation biologists working in Eastern Nepal.
["Bulbils"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant tissue culture and regeneration", "Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies"]

Carex yangchunensis, a new species of Cyperaceae from the limestone regions of Guangdong, South China
Carex yangchunensis (Cyperaceae), a new species of Carex sect. Cryptostachyae in limestone regions of Guangdong, China, is described and illustrated. Both morphological observation and molecular analysis revealed that the new species was similar to C. cryptostachys, but differs in having inflorescence with 4–8 spikes, ovoid or nearly globose, 3–8 mm long, utricles (2.5–3.5 mm long) and nutlets (2–2.2 mm long) shorter, style base thickened, leaves narrower, 3–6 mm wide and culms 8–25 cm tall. Scanning electron micromorphology of utricles and nutlets of the new species and the related species C. cryptostachys are provided.
["Carex sect. Cryptostachyae"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Sinocrassula holotricha (Crassulaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
A new species of crassulacean acid metabolism, Sinocrassula holotricha, is described based on specimen collected from Sichuan Province, Southwest China. The new species can be distinguished from its morphologically and phylogenetically related species by the hairy plants and lack of rosette. In the present study, a molecular phylogeny, taxonomic description, distribution information, and photographs of this new species are presented.
["Crassulaceae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

Tilia saxatilis (Malvaceae), a new species from limestone areas of Guangxi, China
Tilia saxatilis Z.C.Lu & W.B.Xu, a new species was discovered in limestone areas of Guangxi, China. The morphology shows that T. saxatilis is similar to T. tuan Szyszyl., but differs by having leaf blades that are oblong or ovate-oblong, entire margins, fruit ellipsoid, 5-angled, apex acute.
["Malvaceae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Gymnema phuquocense (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), a new species from Vietnam
A new species of Gymnema from Vietnam – G. phuquocense – is described, illustrated, and compared with the similar G. yunnanense. Gymnema phuquocense differs from G. yunnanense by the length of peduncle (3–4 mm vs. 10–13 mm), hairs on corolla lobe margin (absent vs. present), shape of seed (broadly ovate vs. ovate-oblong), shape of scale with 2 prominent longitudinal ridges on corolla tube (lanceolate vs. linear), and length of seeds (9–10 mm vs. 13–15 mm). A diagnostic key of the Gymnema species in Vietnam is also provided.
["Asclepiadoideae"]

A new tree species of Compsoneura (Myristicaceae) from the Andean forests on the Eastern Cordillera Range, Colombia
Compsoneura crassitepala, a new species of Myristicaceae is described, illustrated and its morphological relationships with related species are discussed. This new species is found in Andean forests between 1400 and 1900 m a.s.l., located in the mountainous area of the Magdalena River Basin, Department of Boyacá, Colombia. Compsoneura crassitepala closely resembles Compsoneura lapidiflora in having a thick perianth in pistillate flowers. However, it differs by its leaves, which exhibit weak and partially brochidodromous venation with dendritic trichomes featuring a single axis on the underside. Additionally, it has floral characteristics such as a zig-zag pattern in the rachis direction of inflorescence and unusually thick, fleshy tepals in staminate flowers. Moreover, C. crassitepala is a remarkable species recorded at higher altitudes in Colombia, in an otherwise predominantly lowland forests genus (below 1550 m). A taxonomic key for the identification of the species of the genus is provided.
["Dendritic trichomes"]

Acorus shannai (Acoraceae), a new species from Southern China
Acorus shannai (Acoraceae) is a commonly used seasoning in southern China. It was previously misidentified as A. macrospadiceus (Yamam.) F. N. Wei & Y. K. Li before. Through comparison of morphological characteristics, distribution locations, and type specimen, we determined that the elevation of A. gramineus var. macrospadiceus Yamam to species status was incorrect. Therefore, we propose a formal description of a new species following nomenclature regulations. Based on morphological and plastid genomic data, this study formally describes and illustrates Acorus shannai, distributed in the Qiandongnan area of Guizhou Province and its surroundings, confirming it as a new species within the genus Acorus. This species is morphologically and phylogenetically distinct from other members of the A. gramineus group. Key distinguishing features include a strong fennel odor (vs. aromatic in “A. tatarinowii” and A. gramineus), fruit with prominent dorsal sutures (vs. inconspicuous dorsal sutures in “A. tatarinowii” and A. gramineus), and a leaf-shaped spathe that is about 2–3 times as long as the spadix (vs. more than 3 times in “A. tatarinowii”). Phylogenetic analysis showed that A. shannai is closely related to the other species in the A. gramineus group. The recognition of A. shannai is not only important for the species diversity and phylogenetic relationship of Acorus, but also can avoid the drug safety caused by using other Acorus species as A. shannai to eat and promote the conservation of A. shannai resources.
["Acorus gramineus&gt"]
["Medicinal Plants and Neuroprotection", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Sideritis carpetana (Labiatae), a new high-mountain Mediterranean species from the marble outcrops of the Sierra de Guadarrama (Central System, Madrid, Segovia, Spain)
A new species of Sideritis (Sideritis carpetana) is described from the calcareous, high-mountain Spanish flora in the central part of the Iberian Peninsula. It is found in a Mediterranean climate at high-elevation, perennial, calcareous grasslands, as well as in marble screes of anthropogenic origin in the Sierra de Guadarrama, Central System (Spain), in a reserve area within the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, at 1996 m asl. Taxonomic morphological measurements were performed on collected specimens from Sierra de Guadarrama as well as on geographically-adjacent Sideritis (i.e., S. glacialis, S. pungens, S. hyssopifolia). The relationships among them were then explored with multivariate analysis. Sideritis carpetana is a dwarf shrub with an erect or decumbent habit, growing up to 15 cm; non-woody twigs with long hairs of 3–4 cells, leaves are entire, linear-oblanceolate, sparsely covered with trichomes; inflorescence is spiciform or slightly verticillated, flowers are yellow and nutlets ovoid. A key is supplied to help distinguish it from other high-mountain Iberian species included in section Sideritis. The species is unique in its combination of morphological and autoecological characters. S. carpetana shares similarities with S. glacialis, a species from Sierra Nevada, and its northern Mediterranean variant, S. glacialis subsp. fontqueriana from Sierra de Gúdar. They share morphological characters that are absent in other high-mountain Sideritis, reinforcing their Mediterranean character, as opposed to a more temperate or submediterranean character, such as those of the hyssopifolia group.
["Calcareous high-mountain grasslands"]

Investigating a hybrid mixed population leads to recognizing a new species of Arctostaphylos (Ericaceae)
While investigating the potential for Arctostaphylos species to hybridize in the mixed populations of Point Sal and Burton Mesa in Santa Barbara County, California, we discovered that Arctostaphylos from the Nipomo Mesa (San Luis Obispo County), formerly considered a northern population of A. rudis, are genetically and morphologically distinct. We name this new taxon A. nipumu after the ytt (Northern Chumash language) word for the Nipomo Mesa region. For morphological and molecular analyses, we sampled 54 plants, focusing on A. purissima, A. rudis, and A. crustacea from multiple species and comparative single species populations. Parametric and nonparametric clustering analyses (STRUCTURE and PCA) of ddRADseq data show that Arctostaphylos from the Nipomo Mesa segregate from all other samples in the dataset. In mixed populations A. purissima and A. crustacea samples cluster with samples from other unmixed populations of the same species but A. rudis samples form two distinct clusters. One is composed of the mixed populations in Santa Barbara County, and the other consists of the Nipomo Mesa population. Additionally, the Santa Barbara County A. rudis samples are admixed in STRUCTURE analysis unlike the samples from the Nipomo Mesa. A principal component analysis of eight morphological characters shows that A. rudis individuals from Santa Barbara County tend to be phenotypically variable, occurring in a wide morphological cluster that overlaps with the tight clusters formed by A. purissima, A. crustacea, and Arctostaphylos from the Nipomo Mesa. Based on this evidence we describe the Nipomo Mesapopulation as a new species of Arctostaphylos. Given its limited and fragmented distribution we believe that A. nipumu is of critical conservation concern.
["Arctostaphylos"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Sedum simingshanense (Crassulaceae), a new species from Zhejiang, East China
In this paper, Sedum simingshanense sp. nov. is described as a new species based on morphological and molecular analyses, and its taxonomic relationships are discussed. Morphological analysis indicates S. simingshanense should be classified in the genus Sedum sect. Sedum and is distinct from the related species S. xunvense and S. formosanum in the morphology of its solitary, light green and smooth stems, flattened leaves, larger, obovate and spurless sepals, yellow anthers, 22–30 ovules per carpel, oblique follicles, and its habitat on shaded slopes or rocks. Phylogenetic analysis of sequences of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) also demonstrates that S. simingshanense has a highest similarity of only 97.22% with any known species and S. formosanum is the closest extant relative of the new species.
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant-based Medicinal Research", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

Primulina xingyiensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species in the karst landforms of Guizhou Province, China
Primulina xingyiensis X.X.Bai & F.Wen, a new species of Gesneriaceae in the karst landforms of Xingyi City, Guizhou Province, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, the species is similar to P. davidioides on corolla, while it is distinguished from P. davidioides by characteristics of thinner and smaller leaves, shorter peduncles, fewer flowers, smaller corolla, glabrous staminodes, and ovary shorter than style. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on the combined dataset of rpl32-trnL, trnL-trnF, atpB-rbcL, and ITS sequences of the new species and 151 other species of Primulina Hance showed that the two populations of P. xingyiensis clustered into a clade, while it was most closely related to P. malingheensis. Following criteria D1 in the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the new species should be assessed as ‘vulnerable’ (VU).

Polygala spatulata (sect. Pseudosemeiocardium, Polygalaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Polygala spatulata Y. Nong & Run Hua Jiang (sect. Pseudosemeiocardium, Polygalaceae), a new species from a karst cave in west Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. This new species resembles Polygala isocarpa Chodat in its annual habit, terminal racemes, lamellate appendage, yellow flowers and glabrous seeds, but it can be easily distinguished by its sparsely white-pilose stem and leaf blades, spoon-shaped inner sepals, ovate outer sepals (ca. 1.5 mm) which is glandular and all persistent after anthesis, as well as its elliptic, reticulate seeds. Photographs, an illustration, a distribution map and a comparative table with the most similar species are also provided.
["Karst cave"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Melicope iolensis (Rutaceae), a new tree species from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands
A newly-discovered endemic tree species of Melicope from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated with notes on its distribution, ecology, conservation status and phylogenetic placement. A modification to the existing key to Hawaiian Melicope is also provided. Melicope iolensis sp. nov. is a member of Stone’s Megacarpa group having carpels connate at base, capsules 4-lobed and leaves usually opposite. The new species differs from its Hawaiian congeners by its unique combination of abaxially glabrate to pilose-pubescent leaves with petioles up to 70 mm long, ramiflorous and axillary inflorescences, sepals on staminate flowers 0.3–0.5 mm long, capsules with green and purple streaking, 10–14 mm wide and seeds 3–3.5 mm long. Since its discovery in 2021, 15 individuals have been documented within a single remote windward hanging valley below the Kawaikini Summit of Kaua‘i. Melicope iolensis represents a new Critically Endangered (CR) single island endemic species in need of conservation.

Microtoena wawushanensis (Lamiaceae, Lamioideae): A new species from Sichuan, China
Microtoena wawushanensis, a new species from Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated here. The new species is closely related to M. moupinensis and M. prainiana, but differs distinctly from both in leaf, calyx and bract morphology. It is further distinguished by its highly variable and unstable calyx tooth ratio (1.36–2.13), red-marked lateral lobes on the lower corolla and filaments that are barbate at both the upper and basal parts, with nearly imperceptible hairs in the middle section. Phylogenetic analyses, based on 81 coding regions of the chloroplast genome, suggest that M. wawushanensis belongs to sect. Delavayana and is sister to a clade formed by M. urticifolia, M. prainiana and M. megacalyx.
["Lamiaceae"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Xanthophytum antoanense (Rubiaceae, Ophiorrhizeae), a new species from Vietnam
Xanthophytum antoanense is described as a new species endemic to Central Vietnam. It is morphologically closest to X. capitatum in having setose hairs on the abaxial leaf surface and a pedunculate head-like inflorescence but differs from the latter by a number of characteristics: shorter stem, 3-lobed stipules, narrowly lanceolate leaf blades with a cuneate-oblique base and 20–22 pairs of secondary veins, 3.5–4.5 cm long peduncle, spatulate calyx lobes, larger corollas with a 5–5.4 mm long tube and 2.4–3 mm long lobes, and an apically hairy style. A detailed description, an illustration, and information on distribution, ecology and phenology, and a provisional assessment of the conservation status of the new species are provided.
["An Toan Nature Reserve"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Cryptantha acrimuricata (Boraginaceae), a distinctive new taxon of series Muricatae
In the process of studying the species Cryptantha muricata and its varieties, we discovered a unique taxon of the genus that resembles C. muricata but differs in having a mostly densely white-strigose stem vestiture (sometimes with spreading trichomes) and tuberculate to muricate nutlets with often whitish tubercles that are, in comparison with typical C. muricata, larger, with a wider base and more pointed apex, and more densely spaced. We believe this form to be different enough to describe as a new species, Cryptantha acrimuricata. This new species occurs in southwestern North America: in California and Arizona of the United States and in northern Baja California, Mexico. It occurs in mid- to relatively high elevation mountain regions of mostly desert transition/escarpment in the Transverse and Peninsular Ranges, in the Sonoran and Mohave Deserts, and with some populations scattered in the southern Sierra Nevada. We believe this new species to be closely related to C. clokeyi, C. martirensis, C. muricata, and possibly C. hooveri, of Cryptantha series Muricatae. Detailed molecular phylogenetic are needed to better establish their interrelationships.
["Boraginaceae"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Ctenophora hunanensis sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta) from the Yongle River in Hunan Province, China
A new species, Ctenophora hunanensis Bing Liu & Rioual, sp. nov., found in the Yongle River, a tributary of the Xiang River (Hunan Province, southern China) is described on the basis of morphological observations made under light and scanning electron microscopes. Ctenophora hunanensis is distinguished from other Ctenophora taxa by a unique combination of characters that includes its lanceolate valve outline with rostrate apices, sternum gradually becoming wider from valve apices to center, and a greater valve width than the other members of the genus. Ctenophora hunanensis inhabits the epilithic community in the headwaters of a freshwater river. Many abnormal valves of C. hunanensis were observed in the samples investigated and the most frequent morphological abnormalities consisted in a lack of symmetry relative to the apical axis caused by a unilateral incising in the middle part of the valve.
["abnormal valve"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Analytical chemistry methods development"]

A new marine diatom (Bacillariophyceae) species – Halamphora lombokensis sp. nov. and the first observation for H. banzuensis from Kuta Beach Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
This paper describes a new species of Halamphora – Halamphora lombokensis sp. nov. and records for the first time Halamphora banzuensis for the coasts of Indonesia. The study utilized light and scanning electron microscopy to meticulously examine the morphology. These species were found at Kuta Beach on the island of Lombok in Indonesia in highly saline sandy environments. The newly identified species, H. lombokensis sp. nov., is characterized by its semi-lanceolate to narrowly semi-elliptic shape with a straight ventral and convex dorsal margin. The study contributes to our understanding of marine diatom flora in Indonesia’s coastal regions.
["Diatoms"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Revisiting the genus Tulipa (Liliaceae) in Kazakhstan, the country with the richest tulip diversity worldwide
The genus Tulipa L., belonging to the Liliaceae family, has significant economic, horticultural, and ecological importance and is culturally revered in various regions worldwide. The total number of Tulipa species, including 90–120 taxa, varies based on different sources. Globally, Kazakhstan has one of the highest diversities of Tulipa species, most of which are threatened. In this study, we update and revise the Tulipa species in Kazakhstan based on field observations and an extensive herbarium specimens’ survey. A total of 41 taxa were identified, including 13 species endemic to Kazakhstan, among which seven species have been assessed as threatened globally. Furthermore, we gathered 1,942 occurrence records of 41 Tulipa taxa to analyze spatial arrangement of Tulipa species richness in Kazakhstan. Based on these results, we identified 22 grid cells with a high diversity of tulip species in southern Kazakhstan. We also present taxonomic key for all Tulipa species occurring in Kazakhstan, along with comments on their general distribution, habitat, phenology, distribution map, and conservation status. In addition, a color plate for each species is provided. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the conservation status, distribution patterns, and biodiversity of Tulipa species in Kazakhstan, laying a foundation for targeted conservation efforts and further research in the region.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botanical Studies and Applications", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

Africa and Arabia encompass a much greater species diversity in the Achyranthes aspera aggregate (Amaranthaceae, achyranthoid clade): Evidence from morphological and chorological data
Achyranthes in its traditional sense (excluding Achyropsis that phylogenetically falls into Achyranthes) has been considered to contain a restricted (three to four) number of species in Africa and one or two species in the Arabian Peninsula. The morphology of the type species of the genus, A. aspera, has been treated as highly polymorphic, with several varieties recognised by various authors. Not surprisingly, a recent extended phylogeny revealed a non-monophyly of A. aspera. We present a deeper insight into morphological characters of the A. aspera aggregate together with taxonomic, nomenclatural, ecological, and chorological data based on field investigations and herbarium studies. Instead of one polymorphic species, we accept A. aspera s.str., A. abyssinica, A. acuminata, A. annua, A. mauritiana, A. porphyrostachya, A. sicula, and A. seychellensis sp. nov., all being native to different parts of Africa. In most herbaria, the vast majority of African specimens labelled as A. aspera belong to other species, which are being reinstated here. In addition, two well-recognized species, A. fasciculata and A. talbotii from Tropical East and West Africa, respectively, are also discussed. Moreover, we found that the type of A. aspera var. pubescens as listed in the African and Arabian floras and checklists belongs in fact to an American species A. fruticosa, which is absent in the Old World. In place of the misapplied A. aspera var. pubescens, we accept A. porphyrostachya, a species described from Myanmar, as a correct name for the populations growing in Africa and Arabia. According to our results, at least 10 native species of Achyranthes occur in Africa (or 16 species if Achyropsis is merged with Achyranthes), which is a major diversity center of the genus. Four species are recorded from the Arabian Peninsula (A. abyssinica, A. annua, A. aspera s.str., A. porphyrostachya), and two of them (A. abyssinica and A. annua) reach their easternmost range limit in this region. As a result, the distribution as well as ecological conditions of each species is now clarified or circumscribed for the first time.
["Achyranthes"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Dryopteris × subdiffracta (Dryopteridaceae), a new natural hybrid fern from Guangxi, China
A new natural hybrid fern, Dryopteris × subdiffracta (Dryopteridaceae), is reported from Guangxi, China. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on DNA sequences from the low-copy nuclear marker Ak1 and plastid genome revealed respectively that D. polita and D. diffracta are parents of the new hybrid, with D. polita as the maternal parent. Cytometric analysis of the nuclear DNA content indicated that D. × subdiffracta might be a diploid hybrid. Morphologically, D. × subdiffracta shares a high degree of similarity with D. × subreflexipinna from Taiwan, especially in zigzag-shaped rachis and deflexed pinna stalks. However, D. × subdiffracta is distinguishable in the degree of lamina division and shapes of lamina and pinnulets. A comprehensive taxonomic description accompanied by line drawings are provided.
["Dryopteris sect. Acrorumohra"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and animal studies"]

Several new combinations from previous Didymocarpus to Palmatiboea (Gesneriaceae)
The recently published species, Didymocarpus pingyuanensis, is transferred here to the recently re-circumscribed genus, Palmatiboea. Two varieties, recently assigned to Palmatiboea, have been raised to the rank of species. Their Chinese vernacular names are also revised and provided here.

Two new species of Salvia (Lamiaceae) from the dry forests of Dominican Republic
We describe two new species of Salvia from the Antillean dry forests, belonging to Salvia section Urbania. These species’ names honor two Latin American botanists who have advanced our understanding either of the Dominican flora or the mint family (Lamiaceae). Salvia claseana is found in the Sierra Martín García. It resembles S. calaminthifolia but differs in having strigose stems, rhombic to trullate leaves with a cuneate, decurrent base, and larger flowers. Salvia martineziana inhabits the Sierra de Bahoruco. It resembles Salvia brachyphylla but differs in having strigose stems with retrorse trichomes and flowers disposed in the axils of the distal leaves. We provide descriptions, photographs, a distribution map and an identification key for the species of Salvia section Urbania from the Dominican Republic. Additionally, we sequenced three molecular markers (nrITS, trnL-trnF, and trnH-psbA) for the new taxa and other Dominican and Haitian Salvia species to investigate their phylogenetic relationships.
["Antilles"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Phylogenetic and taxonomic studies of six recently-described Stellaria species (Caryophyllaceae) from China, with an additional new species, Stellaria longipedicellata, from Sichuan
The phylogenetic studies of the tribe Alsineae (Caryophyllaceae) have revealed a clearer boundary between the genus Stellaria and related genera, primarily relying on the morphological characteristics of style 3, stamens 10 and petals deeply bifid. However, the newly-published species in China, which have 5 styles or ten or more lobes per petal, challenge this boundary and necessitate further studies. In this paper, we reviewed six newly-published Chinese species of Stellaria, utilising both molecular phylogenetic evidence from nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and four plastid regions (trnL-F, matK, rbcL, rps16) and morphological evidence. Our results demonstrated that the five new species (Stellaria abaensis, S. multipartita, S. pentastyla, S. procumbens and S. zhuxiensis) were nested within the genus Stellaria, but Stellaria motuoensis was sister to the genus Schizotechium. Herein, we accepted four new Stellaria species and proposed a new combination in Schizotechium and a new synonym in Stellaria. Additionally, we described a new species Stellaria longipedicellata from Sichuan Province, China, which was distinguished from the closely-related species Stellaria decumbens by its glabrous body, linear-lanceolate leaves, long pedicellate flowers, prostrate growth habit and flowers nearly equal to or slightly shorter than sepals. Both molecular and morphological evidence support the treatment of S. longipedicellata as a new species of the genus Stellaria.
["Alsineae"]

A new species in Begonia sect. Diploclinium (Begoniaceae) from Guangxi, South China
Although Guangxi represents one of the distribution centres of begonias in China, the sect. Diploclinium (Wright) A. DC is not well documented herein. In this article, we illustrate a new species belonging to this section, Begonia fangchengensis Y.N.Huang, X.X. Feng & R.K.Li, which has been discovered in southern Guangxi. Begonia fangchengensis mostly resembles B. rotundilimba in elliptic leaf blade, palmate veins, dichasial cyme, three styles, axile placentation, and unequally 3-winged capsule. On the other hand, B. fangchengensis is characterized by creeping rhizome, pilose stipule, red and densely pilose petiole, pubescent leaf blade and pilose inflorescence bract, sparsely pilose ovary and the zygomorphic androecium, differing from the erect stem at anthesis, the green and densely villous petiole, the glabrous stipule, leaf blade, inflorescence bract, ovary and actinomorphic androecium in B. rotundilimba. Considering its small population size and narrow distribution, its conservation status is categorized as ‘Endangered (D)’ according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Limestone karst"]

Rubus tingzhouensis (Rosaceae), a new species from Fujian, China
Rubus tingzhouensis C.An & G.C.Lin, a newly-defined species within the family Rosaceae from Fujian Province, China, is formally described and illustrated here. R. tingzhouensis is morphologically similar to R. swinhoei, but can be distinguished by several key characteristics, such as long, reddish-purple stipitate glands, soft bristles, light yellow short trichomes (vs. shortly grey tomentose at the early stage, glabrescent) and scattered epidermal prickles (vs. few to many curved prickles). Furthermore, the stipules are pinnately deeply laciniate, measuring 1–1.5 cm (vs. ovate-oblong to ovate-lanceolate, 0.5–0.8 cm). Phylogenetic analyses, based on partial sequences and the complete plastome data, provide robust support for a close relationship between R. tingzhouensis and R. swinhoei, while also highlighting distinct genetic differentiation between these two species. The chloroplast genome of R. tingzhouensis is 156,311 bp in length and comprises 132 unique genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNAs, eight ribosomal RNAs and one pseudogene.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Cladopus yangjiangensis (Podostemaceae), a new species from Guangdong, South China, redefining the phylogenetic relationships within Cladopus
This paper introduces Cladopus yangjiangensis, a newly identified species that enriches our understanding of the diversity of the Podostemaceae in East Asia. Distinctive in its morphological traits, this species is characterized by the region’s longest flowering shoots and exhibits a high number of elongated leaves per cluster, along with relatively slender roots. Phylogenetic analyses using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods on plastome and matK sequences confirm C. yangjiangensis as a distinct species. It forms a clade with C. fukienensis, its closest relative, together branching off from C. austrosinensis. The plastome of C. yangjiangensis is 132,818 bp in length, comprising two inverted repeat regions of 20,881 bp, which are separated by large and small single-copy regions of 78,713 and 12,343 bp, respectively. Genetic analysis reveals the extensive loss of the ycf1 and ycf2 genes in the chloroplast genome, a trait common to the Podostemaceae, suggesting adaptations to environmental conditions or gene transfers to nuclear or mitochondrial genomes. This study improves the clarity of phylogenetic relationships in previous studies and underscores the importance of continued taxonomic and phylogenetic research.

Taxonomic studies on the genus Sanicula (Apiaceae) from China (III): The morphology and distribution of S. caerulescens (Apiaceae), with S. oviformis reduced to a new synonym
In the present study, we examined the morphological variations within Sanicula caerulescens and determined the identity of S. oviformis through observations of herbarium specimens (including type material) and field studies of plants in their type locality. Our findings revealed that S. oviformis, originally described from Nanchuan County in southern Chongqing, is conspecific with S. caerulescens. This species is mainly distributed in Chongqing, Guizhou, western Hunan, Sichuan and north-eastern Yunnan in China, as well as in Hà Giang in Vietnam. Key morphological characters of leaves, inflorescences and fruits confirm this synonymy. Based on these findings, we propose reducing S. oviformis to a synonym of S. caerulescens. Additionally, the geographical distribution of S. caerulescens is clarified.
["Chongqing"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

Leontopodium nyingchiense (Asteraceae), a new species from Xizang (Tibet), China
Leontopodium nyingchiense, a new species of Asteraceae from the Xizang (Tibet) Autonomous Region of China, is described and illustrated here. Morphologically, it is most similar to L. lingianum but can be distinguished by the combination of monoecious and dioecious individuals, involucral bracts arranged in 3–5 series (with outer series herbaceous and middle to inner series membranous), fimbriate apices on female florets, rough-edged lobes on male florets, and achenes lacking costae. Phylogenetic analyses further support the separation of this new species from related taxa. Finally, we characterize this new species through both morphological comparisons and molecular analyses.
["Leontopodium"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

Insights to the taxonomy and phylogeny of the genus Ptilagrostis worldwide (Poaceae, Stipeae) with a key to species identification, checklist and outlines for further studies
Ptilagrostis (false needlegrass) is a genus of high-mountain grasses distributed in Central and North-East Asia, as well as in North America. The phylogenetic position of the genus Ptilagrostis within the Stipeae is well defined based on micromorphological patterns of lemma epidermis and moleculs. However, there is a lack of a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the genus in its entire distribution range. In this study, we performed comprehensive analyses using integrative taxonomic methods, aiming at both micromorphological and macromorphological analyses, and molecular analyses based on SNPs obtained from DArT genome-wide sequencing, in which we considered all taxa representing the genus in order to establish phylogenetic relationships between its members. We analysed all species possessing the characteristic ‘Ptilagrostis pattern’ of the lemma epidermis, with a particular reference to species possessing the terminal segment of the awn (seta) covered by short (up to 1 mm long) hairs that, until now, were treated as representatives of the genus Achnatherum. Following with the result of our molecular, morphological and anatomical analyses, the genus Ptilagrostis is represented by 15 species, one subspecies and five varieties organised in three well supported phylogenetic clades corresponding to the three sections: Ptilagrostis, Barkworthia and Chenella. In this paper, we provide an original key to identifying false needlegrass species, together with a checklist containing the intrageneric species-organisation. In addition, for each species, we present the data regarding nomenclatural types, morphological description, and information on the geographical distribution, habitat preferences and altitudinal ranges. We proposed two new varieties within the genus Ptilagrostis, P. glabrifolia var. himalayensis and P. concinna var. xizangensis, and the new section Chenella comprising three species with awns scabrous or covered by very short hairs up to 0.3 mm long. Additionally, we transfer Stipa chingii to Ptilagrostis chingii, Achnatherum chingii var. laxum to P. chingii var. laxum, and Ptilagrostis concinna subsp. schischkinii to P. junatovii var. schischkinii. Lectotypification was made for three taxa, Stipa mongholica var. minutiflora, P. czekanowskii, and P. tibetica.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Ruminant Nutrition and Digestive Physiology", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Morphological and molecular characterization of Halamphora vantushpaensis (Bacillariophyceae, Amphipleuraceae), a new diatom species widely dispersed on the shores of the soda Lake Van (Türkiye)
In this study, we describe Halamphora vantushpaensis sp. nov., a newly identified diatom species found in the highly alkaline Lake Van in Eastern Turkey (Türkiye). This new species is characterized morphologically by light and scanning electron microscopy, performed on both wild and cultivated samples. Two monoclonal cultures were submitted to a genome-skimming approach, giving access to the complete sequence of their nuclear rRNA cluster of genes, mitochondrial and plastid genomes. Both strains were highly similar from the genomic point of view, with few mutations noted, although in organellar genomes some of them concerned protein coding genes and were non-silent. Also, the group II intron in the mitochondrial cox1 gene was found to display a relatively high number of polymorphisms. The plastome also distinguishes itself from other Halamphora spp. by the extension of its inverted repeat at the expense of the two single copy regions of the genome. Maximum likelihood molecular phylogeny inferred from a concatenated three genes dataset (18S, psbC and rbcL) positions this species within the K clade, which is known to contain hypersaline to freshwater species.
["Alkaline lake"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Reinstatement of Struthanthus venetus (Loranthaceae): an endemic species of central Mexico
Struthanthus Mart. is a challenging genus because the abundance of reproductively incomplete specimens (lacking mature pistillate and staminate flowers and fruit) has inspired the description of many species, resulting in a long list of names to be verified. In addition, the genus currently lacks a monographic treatment. Struthanthus venetus (Kunth) Blume was previously considered a heterotypic synonym of S. interruptus (Kunth) G. Don. However, examination of herbarium specimens and observation of living plants demonstrate that S. venetus is a distinct species distinguishable from S. interruptus. Here, we propose the reinstatement of S. venetus along with a complete description of the species and the designation of an epitype to complement the reproductively incomplete (lacking flowers) and severely fragmented type.
["Dioecious"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Elymus multiramosus (Poaceae), a new species from the north-western Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, China
A new species from China, Elymus multiramosus Y.C. Zhang, sp. nov. is described and illustrated herein, based on morphological characters and molecular phylogenetic analysis. The taxonomic descriptions of E. multiramosus and the comparison with related species are presented. The taxonomic distinctiveness of this new species was inferred by Maximum Likelihood (ML) analysis and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis, based on the complete chloroplast genome sequence. It is assigned to the Elymus section and bears similarity to Elymus nutans Griseb. However, it can be easily distinguished from other species by its compound spike, in contrast to the simple spike inflorescence typical of those species. The compound spike is characterised by rhachillas that are extended at the base of the main axis, giving rise to 3–6 mini-spike-like branches. Notably, these branches significantly increase in length from the top towards the bottom of the compound spike. In the molecular phylogeny, Elymus multiramosus from Qinghai, north-western China, is phylogenetically positioned as a distinct lineage. The lineage comprising Elymus sinosubmuticus from Sichuan, east of the Tibetan Plateau and Elymus nutans from the Himalayas forms a sister group to Elymus multiramosus, suggesting that these three species share a common ancestor that is distinct from the lineage leading to Elymus atratus from Gansu, north of the Tibetan Plateau.
["Molecules"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Wedelia figueiredoana (Asteraceae, Heliantheae), a winged cypselae new species of Wedelia for Brazil
We describe one new species from Ceará state, Brazil: Wedelia figueiredoana. It is morphologically associated with W. bonplandiana, but distinguished by 0.25–1.05 cm leaf blade width (vs. 1.5–2.6 cm), linear to narrow oblong leaf blade (vs. elliptic to spatulate), 3-seriate involucre (vs. 2-seriate), and cypselae 3.9–4 mm long (vs. 6–7 mm). An anatomical analysis of cypselae is provided, and we propose a more accurate terminology to describe similar wings to Wedelia species. We also provide a scientific illustration of the new species, photos of habitat, a map of its geographic occurrence, and its taxonomic affinities are discussed with a taxonomic key to the Wedelia species with the apically pronounced wings in the cypselae.
["Auricular projections"]

Discovery of Whittieria hengduanensis sp. nov. (Ophioglossaceae) from Southwest China demonstrates a unique intercontinental disjunct pattern in plants between the Himalaya and the Americas
A new fern species, Whittieria hengduanensis (Ophioglossaceae), from Sichuan, Xizang, and Yunnan, Southwest China (eastern Himalaya), is described and illustrated. This species is similar to W. engelmannii in the Americas in having a cylindrical rhizome and complex-reticulate venation. In addition, both species grow in open habitat on basic soil. However, the two species are distinguishable in root number per rhizome and the number of the larger areolae per trophophore. Our molecular study also supports that they are sister to each other but divergent at the molecular level. The discovery of W. hengduanensis shows that the genus is intercontinentally disjunct between the Himalaya and the Americas, a unique pattern not having been documented in the literature.
["Adder\u2019s tongues"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Mallotus bullatus (Euphorbiaceae), a new species from Southwest China based on morphological characters and phylogenetic evidence
Mallotus bullatus M.T.An & J.H.Yu, sp. nov. (Euphorbiaceae), a species new to science discovered in Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated here, and its phylogenetic position among other Mallotus species is presented. Morphological, micro-morphological, and molecular evidence is presented as attestation of its novelty. The new species morphologically resembles M. philippensis var. reticulatus and M. philippensis var. philippensis, but it clearly differs by having bullate leaf surfaces (vs. not bullate), leaf margins entire or nearly so (vs. entire or nearly so in M. philippensis var. philippensis and coarsely serrate in M. philippensis var. reticulatus), leaf margins sometimes bearing red glands (vs. red glands absent), 5 sepals in staminate flowers (vs. 3–4 in M. philippensis var. philippensis and 4 in M. philippensis var. reticulatus), fruits with spines (vs. spines absent in M. philippensis var. philippensis and present in M. philippensis var. reticulatus), and abaxial leaf epidermal scattered and clustered vein hairs 0.1–0.8 mm long (vs. 0.04–0.28 mm long in M. philippensis var. philippensis and 0.05–0.1 mm long in M. philippensis var. reticulatus). Molecular phylogenetic analysis (BS = 100% / BS = 96%, PP = 1 / PP = 1) provides strong evidence supporting M. bullatus as a new species within the genus Mallotus and supports its placement in M. sect. Philippinenses as sister to M. philippensis.
["Euphorbiaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis"]

Two new varieties of Agapetes (Ericaceae) from Xizang, China
Two new varieties from Xizang, China, i.e. Agapetes interdicta var. flaviflora and A. forrestii var. parvifolia, are described and illustrated. Agapetes interdicta var. flaviflora differs from the nominate variety in having yellow and smaller corollas with shorter lobes and anthers with shorter appendages at the base. Agapetes forrestii var. parvifolia is distinguished from the nominate variety in the smaller leaves with an acute apex, nearly transverse secondary veins and puberulent peduncle. Taxonomic notes on these taxa are also provided.
["Medog County"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Leucheria peteroana (Nassauvieae, Asteraceae), a new species of Leucheria endemic to the Andes of Central Chile, and insights into the systematics of Nassauviae
A new species, Leucheria peteroana sp. nov., endemic to a restricted area of the Andes of Central Chile, is here described. Using newly sequenced nDNA and cpDNA data, the phylogenetic affinities of Leucheria and closely related taxa within Nassauvieae are revisited. This new species shows a unique set of characters that clearly distinguish it from other species of Leucheria. Phylogenetic analyses place this perennial species close to annual species found in the pre-Andean environments of Central Chile. A detailed description, distribution map, insights about its habitat, conservation status, and photographs are provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Carrierea leyensis, a new species of Salicaceae from limestone areas of Guangxi, China
Carrierea leyensis Z.C.Lu & W.B.Xu, a new species of Salicaceae was discovered from limestone areas of Guangxi, China. The morphology of C. leyensis is similar to C. dunniana, but differs by its evergreen nature; shorter petioles, only 3–8 mm long, and tomentose or glabrous when old; elliptic leaf blade with cuneate base; shorter inflorescence (1.8–4.5 cm long); smaller flowers; and smaller capsules (1.7–2.7 cm long, 5–9 mm in diam.).
["Carrierea calycina"]

Cardamine zhangjiajieensis, a new species of Brassicaceae in China
Cardamine zhangjiajieensis, a new species from Hunan Province, China, is described and illustrated. Cardamine zhangjiajieensis is similar to C. circaeoides. From the latter, C. zhangjiajieensis is readily distinguished by the terminal leaflet of the cauline leaf 4.5–7 cm (vs. 2.5–4.5 cm), mostly round or oblong (vs. oblong-oval to triangular-oval), margin undulating sinuses (vs. crenate or subentire), seed apically narrow wing (vs. wingless).
["Flora of Hunan"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

New genera and new species of Catenulaceae (Bacillariophyta) from Coral Reef habitat of two Indonesia islands—Bawean and Sulawesi—A morphological approach
Indonesia is listed as a region with high marine biodiversity, especially when considering the three large tropical ecosystems: seagrass beds, mangroves and coral reefs. It is likely that the biodiversity of diatoms in this area is also high. Samples for this research were taken from the remote area of Bawean Island and Tomini Gulf in Central Sulawesi. In this research, we explored marine benthic diatoms from coral reef areas and presented two new genera: Paracatenula and Wallaceago, and seven new species: Paracatenula porostriata sp. nov., Wallaceago porostriatus sp. nov., Catenula boyanensis sp. nov., C. komodensis sp. nov., C. decusa sp. nov., C. densestriata sp. nov., and Catenulopsis baweana sp. nov. The new genus Paracatenula is characterized by its perforated cingulum, and the genus Wallaceago is distinguished by its proximal and apical raphe ends bent to the ventral side and the presence of a stauros in the mantle.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Advanced biosensing and bioanalysis techniques"]

Newly found and rediscovered hornworts (Anthocerotophyta) in Poland: Indicators of climate change impact in Central Europe
In 2023, field research in south-western Poland led to the noteworthy discovery of two hornworts: Notothylas orbicularis, a species previously unrecorded in this country, and the rediscovery of Anthoceros neesii for the Polish bryoflora. These findings are significant as they suggest a response to climate change, which is facilitating the range expansion of hornworts within Central Europe. Detailed descriptions of the new localities for both species are provided, highlighting the specific environmental conditions and habitats where they were found. Distribution maps for Notothylas orbicularis and Anthoceros neesii in Poland are provided, as well as SEM micrographs of spores. Additionally, a key to the identification of Polish hornwort species is also included. Furthermore, a model projecting the potential future spread of these hornworts within Poland and the broader Central European region is presented. This model considers climatic variables and habitat availability, offering insights into possible range shifts. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence that climate change is a driving factor in the redistribution of bryophytes.
["Anthoceros neesii"]

Resolving the Drymonia killipii (Gesneriaceae) complex results in a new species from the northwestern Andes of South America
A new species, Drymonia quadrangulata Clavijo & J.L.Clark, sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae, Columneinae), is described from the western Andean slopes of southern Colombia and northern Ecuador. The new species has been historically confused with D. killipii, an endemic species to Colombia, restricted to the lowlands of the Chocó biogeographic region in the departments of Cauca, Chocó, and Valle del Cauca. These two species have large foliaceous calyx lobes that cover at least half of the corolla tube, and tubular-infundibuliform corollas. The new species differs by strigose quadrangulate and sometimes winged stems, leaves reticulate abaxially with obtuse to subcordate bases, midveins green, corolla lobes white to yellow with margins incised to short laciniate, and indehiscent berry fruits. Digital photographs, detailed morphological comparisons with the similar species, and an IUCN preliminary risk extinction assessment are provided for the new species.

Ophiorrhiza liuyanii (Rubiaceae), a new species from south-western China and northern Vietnam
Ophiorrhiza liuyanii, a new species from south-western China and northern Vietnam, is described and illustrated. The new species is characterised by the glabrous surfaces on almost all plant parts, congested inflorescences and broad-ovate to ovate bracts 9–22 × 4–11 mm. It morphologically differs from the closest species, O. baviensis, mainly in most plant parts being glabrous, bracts broad-ovate to ovate, apex acute or sometimes obtuse, corollas inside with a ring of white hairs at the middle and anthers inserted near the middle in long-styled flowers. According to IUCN Categories and Criteria, O. liuyanii is assessed as Least Concern (LC).
["New taxon"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Maesa flabellifera (Primulaceae), a new species from southeast Yunnan, China
Maesa flabellifera (Primulaceae-Maesoideae) from southeast Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated here. This new species belongs to the informal long corolla-tube species group and is morphologically similar to M. permollis and M. kurzii, but can be distinguished by lacking hairs, membranaceous leaves and long panicles with 7−16 branches. According to the IUCN criteria, M. flabellifera is assessed as “Least Concern”.
["Ericales"]

Papaver recircumscribed: A review of neighbouring Papaveraceae genera, including Afropapaver nom. et stat. nov. and Oreomecon, a large, Arctic-Alpine genus
Papaveraceae tribus Papavereae includes an American and a mainly Eurasian group of genera. The latter is proposed here to include eight genera. Amongst these, the recently described genus Oreomecon is phylogenetically a sister group to Meconopsis, a genus from Himalaya and central China, which is reviewed here as including 95 species and 21 subspecies. By contrast, Oreomecon has a circumpolar northern alpine and Arctic distribution, including incompletely understood taxa, many threatened by climatic warming. Based on a review of literature and phylogenies, it is proposed here that Oreomecon includes 68 species and 29 subspecies. Oreomecon aurantiaca, O. cornwallisensis, O. keelei, O. ochotensis and O. uschakovii, 29 subspecies and four varieties are placed in Oreomecon here, 29 of these as recombinations, the remaining ones as nomenclatural novelties. A total of 21 existing Oreomecon names are placed into synonymy. The taxonomically challenging O. alpina group from Central Europe is treated as comprising three species, with the remaining entities positioned at the subspecies level pending further studies. The much-studied Nordic species O. radicata is treated with eight subspecies here, based on morphometric studies, whereas four accepted entities are provisionally recombined at the variety level. The name Papaver tenellum and the basionyms of Oreomecon alborosea, O. alpina subsp. corona-sancti-stephani, O. alpina subsp. degenii, O. anomala, O. lapeyrouseana subsp. endressii, O. lapponica subsp. laestadiana and O. nivalis are lectotypified here. Two replacement names, Oreomecon alpina subsp. markgrafiana and O. radicata subsp. knabeniana, are introduced. Papaver, as currently understood, is recircumscribed here to represent four genera. The isolated section Horrida, from southern Africa, is raised to genus level with the new name Afropapaver and its only species is recombined as Afropapaver aculeatum. Papaver sect. Californica from California and adjacent Mexico is treated as the genus Stylomecon. The name has been applied to one of the two species of this group and we now recombine the other one as S. crassifolia, based on an older basionym replacing Papaver californicum. Papaver cambricum is accepted in its alternative position as the monotypic genus Parameconopsis. As reviewed here, Papaver comprises 59 species and 14 subspecies and is only the third-largest genus in the group. Based on the distribution of its closest relatives and oldest sections, it is hypothesised here that Papaver arose in the western Mediterranean. Its poricidal capsule dehiscence serves as an excellent adaptation to seed dispersal in open, arid environments, possibly explaining its later success in the Türkiye-Caucasus-Middle East area, where its diversity both at species and section level is highest.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Description and phylogenetic position of a new species, Chrysosplenium insularis J.E.Jang, K.H.Lee & H.Y.Gil (Saxifragaceae), from the southern islands of South Korea
We describe a new species, Chrysosplenium insularis J.E.Jang, K.H.Lee & H.Y.Gil, belonging to the family Saxifragaceae, from the southern islands of the Republic of Korea. Chrysosplenium insularis is morphologically similar to C. japonicum (Maxim.) Makino but can be distinguished by fairly persistent bulbils, green to yellowish-green sepals, four stamens, and cylindrical papillose seeds. Chrysosplenium insularis is also distinguished from C. alternifolium L., which is distributed in Europe, northern Russia, and the Caucasus, by the absence of stolons and green bracts. Phylogenetic analyses, based on one nuclear ribosomal (ITS) and two chloroplast (rbcL, matK) regions, confirmed that the new species was monophyletic and that C. insularis and C. alternifolium formed a sister relationship with robust support. Herein, we provide a detailed morphological description of C. insularis with its corresponding geographical distribution and comparison table and figures of related species.
["Chrysosplenium"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Primula meishanensis (Primulaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Primula meishanensis K.Huang & Z.X.Fu, sp. nov., a new species of Primulaceae from Meishan City, Sichuan Province, China, is described and illustrated. The morphological data and phylogenetic analysis, based on the complete chloroplast genome, suggest that Primula meishanensis is a separate species closely related to Primula dejuniana. The complete chloroplast genome of Primula meishanensis was 152,175 bp and the complete chloroplast genome of Primula dejuniana was 151,988 bp. The new species differs from the latter by the solitary scape, the length of petiole, acute leaf blade apex and pin flower. The distribution map, morphological comparison of related species and conservation status of the new species are also provided.
["Morphological characters"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

The Vitex trifolia complex (Lamiaceae) in the Philippines
The Vitex trifolia complex in the Philippines comprises economically important medicinal species, but its taxonomic status has become ambiguous due to numerous historical nomenclatural revisions. We assembled the complete chloroplast genomes of five species belonging to this species complex to provide additional evidence for their species delimitation. Based on a detailed analysis of specimens which combined molecular and morphological data, we propose reinstating V. elmeri Moldenke and delineating V. arvensis Gentallan, Sengun & M.B.Bartolome as a new endemic species belonging to this complex. The new species is a putative hybrid between V. bicolor Willd. and V. elmeri Moldenke. The specific epithet arvensis reflects its predominantly cultivated nature, both on a commercial scale and in home gardens, as a valued medicinal plant. We also provided a key to identify the five species belonging to the V. trifolia complex in the Philippines.
["Labiatae"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Halamphora hampyeongensis sp. nov. (Amphipleuraceae, Bacillariophyceae), a new marine benthic diatom from a tidal mudflat in Hampyeong Bay, South Korea
The abundance and variety of benthic diatoms inhabiting tidal flats is widely acknowledged, although it has received relatively less attention than other research areas. In this investigation, we provide a formal description of a benthic diatom found in the tidal mudflat of South Korea, based on morphological and molecular characteristics and the similarities and differences between Halamphora hampyeongensis sp. nov., with morphologically similar Halamphora species are also discussed. Morphological characteristics are described from light and electron microscopy images. H. hampyeongensis is distinguished by its wide ventral sides of the valve, small and rounded areolae present across the whole valve face, and dense dorsal striae biseriate (34–38 in 10 μm). Phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rDNA and rbcL sequence data revealed that H. hampyeongensis is related to H. montana, H. mosensis, and H. specensa. The results (morphometric and molecular) provide sufficient elements to support and propose this taxon as a new species.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Vincetoxicum nakaianum (Asclepiadoideae, Apocynaceae), a new species from Japan for Cynanchum magnificum Nakai, nomen nudum
Vincetoxicum Wolf is the third largest genus in Asclepiadoideae, and 23 species are distributed in Japan. We discovered that an erect herb species, distributed in the eastern part of the Honshu island, was invalidly named Vincetoxicum magnificum (Nakai) Kitag. based on Cynanchum magnificum Nakai, nomen nudum. Therefore, we presently name this species Vincetoxicum nakaianum K.Mochizuki & Ohi-Toma, and we give a detailed description in this study. Additionally, we provide photographs that demonstrate its ecology and diagnostic characteristics.
["Asclepiadoideae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Phytochemistry and Bioactive Compounds"]

Spiradiclis yanii (Rubiaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Spiradiclis yanii Y.Nong & L.Wu (Rubiaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is most similar to S. tomentosa, but it can be easily distinguished by being densely multicellular villous, leaves narrow elliptic or oblanceolate, apex acute or shortly acuminate, stipules 2–4, linear or linear lanceolate, 4–8 mm, densely villous, corolla tube 3 mm, sparsely pubescent inside, flower homomorphism, lobes 3–5, stamens arising at the base of the tube, stigma 2-lobed, lobes ovoid, slightly swollen, 0.2 mm. The habitat of Spiradiclis yanii is extremely fragile. Therefore, this species deserves close attention and protection.
["Longan"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

Cryptantha whippleae (Boraginaceae), a new serpentine-adapted species endemic to northern California, U.S.A.
Cryptantha whippleae D.A.York & M.G.Simpson (Boraginaceae) is described as new. This species is currently known to occur in serpentine barrens in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest of Siskiyou County, California, with one outlier population in possible serpentine of Lake County, California. The new species is most similar to Cryptantha grandiflora and to C. milobakeri, these three likely each others’ closest relatives. All three have a relatively large corolla limb width and similar smooth, lance-ovate to ovate, marginally rounded, acuminate and abaxially transversely flattened nutlets. Cryptantha whippleae differs from C. grandiflora in having a short, as opposed to a tall, stem height; bifurcate as opposed to trifurcate primary axis cymules; and typically 2–3 nutlets per fruit, as opposed to usually one nutlet per fruit. Cryptantha whippleae differs from C. milobakeri also in having a short, versus tall, stem height; appressed-strigose and spreading-hispid stem vestiture, as opposed to strigose only or strigose and hirsute; calyx trichomes with two distinct vestiture types, these marginally appressed hirsute and medially hispid, as opposed to calyx trichomes of one type, dense, appressed to ascending, whitish sericeous; and 2–3 nutlets per fruit, as opposed to one nutlet per fruit. Cryptantha whippleae is relatively rare and joins seven other Cryptantha species that are found on serpentine, either obligately or facultatively. Current molecular phylogenetic studies support the mostly convergent evolution of serpentine adaptation in Cryptantha, but additional studies are needed.
["Boraginaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Miconia garagoana - Melastomataceae: A new rheophytic species from the eastern Andes of Colombia
A new species, Miconia garagoana, from riparian environments of the northern Cordillera Oriental of Colombia, is described. This is the second species exclusive to rheophytic conditions that grows in the Andean forest in Colombia and is characterized by the presence of stellate-lepidote trichomes on young structures and inflorescences, terminal inflorescences, 4-merous (rarely 5-merous) flowers, oblong-subulate anthers with an apical pore and 2-locular ovary. The differences with other rheophytic species occurring in Colombia are noted and it is argued that it is related to other Andean species with bluish-green ripe fruits such as M. squamulosa and M. symplocoidea. This new species is so far known only from Colombia and its threat category is suggested as Critically Endangered” (CR).
["Eastern Mountains"]
["Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Metagentiana jiangyouensis, a new species of Metagentiana (Gentianaceae) from Sichuan, China
Metagentiana jiangyouensis, a new species of Gentianaceae from Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is similar to Metagentiana villifera, but differs by the fact that the plant is glabrous and has 1–4 flowering stems, well-developed basal vegetative rosettes, a pale purple corolla with dark purple spots on the tube and erose or denticulate, non-fringed plicae margins. It also somewhat resembles M. rhodantha, but can be easily distinguished by having shorter stems, entire leaf margins, smooth, shorter sepal lobes, spotted corolla tubes, non-fringed plicae and narrowly winged seeds.
["Gentianaceae"]

Annotated checklist of Rubus L. (Rosaceae) from South America
The diversity of Rubus in South America is much understudied and a taxonomic framework needs to be established as a basis for future revisionary and phylogenetic work. Our review identified 110 names based on South American specimens which were published since 1767. Each name was then classified according to its botanical description and type material. Additionally, where necessary, we suggest appropriate lecto-, neo-, or epitypes. A comprehensive list of synonyms is provided and representative herbarium specimens for each country are cited to tentatively document geographical range. In total, we accept 46 species of Rubus recorded across South America, propose 19 new synonyms, restore R. organensis, previously a synonym of R. brasiliensis, provide a replacement name for the latter, and include new country records of R. azuayensis, R. laegaardii and R. rusbyi. This checklist serves as an essential starting point for future monographic and evolutionary studies on Rubus in South America.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Berry genetics and cultivation research", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Yersinochloa nianheana (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new species from southern Vietnam
Yersinochloa nianheana sp. nov. from Vietnam is described and illustrated. It is found in southern Vietnam, where it occurs at an elevation of 1400–1500 m in Voi Mountain, Duc Trong District, Lam Dong Province. This new species is distinguished from a similar species, Yersinochloa dalatensis, by culm nodes with a thick swollen patella, culm leaf blades erect, auricles conspicuous, margins bearing long hairs, palea dorsal view showing rachilla extension and rudimentary floret at the apex and lodicules purple gradually towards the top. Besides that, the species is distinguished from Yersinochloa nghiana by the leaf blades without being swollen at the base, the prophyllate bud 2-keeled, lodicules purple at ½ upper parts and unbifid at the base.
["Bambusoideae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A new species of Bonnetia Mart. (Bonnetiaceae) from the Pantepui of South America
Bonnetia is the most representative genus of the Pantepui woody flora and is among the groups with the greatest endemism in the local flora. The genus has 28 currently recognized species in tropical America, 26 of them endemic to the Pantepui. Here we describe Bonnetia ayangannensis from the summit of Mount Ayanganna tepui in Guyana, providing a morphological description, illustrations, distribution maps, characterization of micromorphology under scanning electron microscopy and leaf venation, comments comparing the new species with closely related species, and a key for the identification of the species of Bonnetia occurring in Guyana. With its restricted distribution threatened by climate change, Bonnetia ayangannensis is assessed in the conservation threat category of Critically Endangered. Its description raises the number of endemic species of Bonnetia in the Pantepui to 27.

Three new species of Boesenbergia (Zingiberaceae) from Sabah, Malaysia
Three new species of Boesenbergia, B. bosuangii sp. nov., B. ganaensis sp. nov. and B. gokusingii sp. nov. were discovered in Sabah, Malaysia. Boesenbergia bosuangii is similar to B. stenophylla R.M.Sm. in the narrowly ovate lamina but differs in the shape of the bract and the calyx. Boesenbergia ganaensis is closely allied to B. burttiana R.M.Sm. but differs in the absence of a ligule, the longer petiole, the obtuse leaf base, the acute leaf apex, the bilobed calyx and the anther dehiscing by pores. Finally, B. gokusingii is similar to B. variegata R.M.Sm., by the single leafy shoot but differs in having an unequal, ovate lamina, a cordate leaf base, an acute leaf apex and the anther dehiscing by pores. The three new species are described and illustrated in detail. With the addition of these new species, there are in total 13 species with one variety in Sabah.
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Southeast Asian Sociopolitical Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Ardisia crenata subsp. mukdahanensis, a new subspecies of Primulaceae from Thailand
A new subspecies, Ardisia crenata Sims subsp. mukdahanensis Chatan & Promprom (Primulaceae), is described from Mukdahan Province, Thailand. This discovery was made during field studies conducted from 2021 to 2023, during which the authors collected and analysed specimens, comparing them with relevant taxonomic literature and herbarium collections. A. crenata subsp. mukdahanensis is distinct from its closest relative, A. crenata subsp. crassinervosa by a combination of morphological traits, such as moderately dense minute hairs on young shoots, abaxial side of young lamina and calyx, peduncles and pedicels; larger flowers (7.0–7.5 mm) that are pure white or pinkish; larger fruits (7–8 mm) and absence of glandular punctation in organs such as lamina, calyx, corolla, anther and fruit. This new subspecies grows in slightly dense dry evergreen forests or open areas near streams and is preliminarily assigned to the Data Deficient (DD) category according to IUCN guidelines.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Ulnaria shun-biseriata sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta) from the Shun River in Hunan Province, China
A new species, Ulnaria shun-biseriata sp. nov., was found in the Shun River of Hunan Province, southern China, and its morphology was described based on light and scannning electron microscope obervations. Ulnaria shun-biseriata is characterized by its lanceolate valve outline, apiculate valve apices, slightly undulate valve margins, mostly biseriate striae, variable central area, and closed valvocopula. Many abnormal valves of U. shun-biseriata were observed in the samples investigated and the most frequent morphological abnormalities consisted of a lack of symmetry relative to the apical axis caused by a unilateral expansion in the middle part of the valve.
["abnormal valve"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Glacial history of Saxifraga wahlenbergii (Saxifragaceae) in the context of refugial areas in the Western Carpathians
Despite the wealth of data available for mountain phylogeography, local-scale studies focused on narrow endemic species remain rare. Yet, knowledge of the genetic structure of such species biogeographically linked to a restricted area is of particular importance to understand the history of the local flora and its diversity patterns. Here, we aim to contribute to the phylogeographical overview of the Western Carpathians with a genetic study of Saxifraga wahlenbergii, one of the most characteristic endemic species of this region. We sampled populations from all discrete parts of the species’ distribution range to apply sequencing of selected non-coding cpDNA and nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS) regions, as well as Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) fingerprinting. First, while ITS sequences showed weak diversification, the genetic structure based on cpDNA sequences revealed two well-differentiated groups of haplotypes. One of them is restricted to the main center of the distribution range in the Tatra Mountains (Mts), while the second group included a series of closely related haplotypes, which in most cases were unique for particular isolated groups of populations in peripheral mountain ranges and in the south-eastern part of the Tatra Mts. AFLP fingerprinting also revealed a pattern of divergence among populations, while only partly corroborating the division observed in cpDNA. Taking into account all the data, the pattern of genetic structure, supported by the high levels of unique genetic markers in populations, may reflect the historical isolation of populations in several local refugia during the last glacial period. Not only the center of the range in the Tatra Mts, but also other, neighboring massifs (Malá Fatra, Nízke Tatry, Chočské vrchy, Muránska planina), where populations are characterized by separate plastid DNA haplotypes, could have acted as separate refugia.
["AFLP"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Three new species of Isodon (Nepetoideae, Lamiaceae) from China
Three new species of Isodon (Lamiaceae) from China are described and illustrated, based on both morphological evidence and our recent phylogenomic studies of the genus. Isodon attenuatus, a herbaceous new species known only from the Fanjing Mountain, is shown to be sister to I. villosus, but they can be easily distinguished by leaf and inflorescence indumentum, calyx teeth shape and corolla tube morphology. Isodon gongshanensis, a herbaceous new species collected from the Hengduan Mountains in southwest China, represents a distinct lineage within the genus. Isodon sukungii, a shrubby new species also endemic to the Hengduan Mountains, was previously misidentified as I. tenuifolius, but they are phylogenetically distantly related and differ in lamina size and margin, inflorescence type and corolla length and shape.
["dry valley"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Lysimachia ailaoshanensis (Primulaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
A new species, Lysimachia ailaoshanensis is described and illustrated. In gross morphology it is evidently allied to subgen. Palladia sect. Chenopodiopsis and is most similar to L. chenopodioides and L. remotiflora, but is distinguished from L. chenopodioides by narrower lanceolate leaf blade and longer pedicel, and longer stamens and styles, and from L. remotiflora by narrower leaf blade and longer stamens.
["Ericales"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

George Gardner’s enigmatic species Goyazia villosa (Gesneriaceae) finally rediscovered
Tapina villosa (Gesneriaceae) was published by George Gardner in 1842, based on material he collected in Serra de Natividade (Tocantins, Brazil) in 1840. The species is now recognized as Goyazia villosa (Gardner) R.A. Howard. Since Gardner’s travels in Central Brazil, this species had not been collected again and the taxon was considered as possibly extinct. After a long time, we report the discovery of two new populations of G. villosa in the municipality of Palmas and in the Estação Ecológica Serra Geral do Tocantins, ca. 200 and 100 km north of the Serra de Natividade, respectively. The newly collected materials allow us to better characterize the morphology and infer the phylogenetic placement of this poorly-known species. Here we demonstrate that G. villosa is closely related to G. rupicola in a clade including Goyazia and Mandirola species, and provide an updated description of the species, including field images, photographic plate, information on its distribution and habitat, and a taxonomic key for the species of Goyazia.
["Cerrado"]
["Social Sciences and Policies", "Aging, Health, and Disability"]

Xantolis weimingii (Sapotaceae), a new species from the Yuanjiang River basin, Yunnan, southwest China
Xantolis weimingii sp. nov. (Sapotaceae) is described and illustrated from Yunnan, southwest China. The new species is morphologically most similar to X. tomentosa (Roxb.) Raf., but differs from the latter in the ovate or obovate leaves, entirely glabrous corollas, lanceolate, ca. 5 mm long staminodes, fringed at the base. We provided a distribution map and a preliminary conservation assessment for the new species. Additionally, an updated dichotomous key to all known species of Xantolis is presented.
["Central Yunnan"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Planothidium pseudolinkei sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta), a new marine monoraphid diatom species from the coast of Guangxi, China
A new marine monoraphid diatom species, Planothidium pseudolinkei sp. nov., is described from the coast of Guangxi, China. The detailed morphology of this epipsammic diatom is studied by using both light and scanning electron microscopy. P. pseudolinkei differs from congeners by a combination of morphological features including capitate apices, multiseriate striae, a small central area on the raphe valve and an oblong sinus on the rapheless valve. Ecological preferences of Planothidium are also briefly discussed.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Temochloa (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a newly-recorded bamboo genus for China and Vietnam, with new taxa and a re-interpretation of flowering structures
Neomicrocalamus and Temochloa are closely-related genera for which ‘inflorescence’ structures were incompletely understood and difficult to reconcile. After re-examining the inflorescence morphology, the so-called ‘spikelets’ of both genera as described should instead be recognised as pseudospikelets with mostly inactive axillary buds. The new bamboo taxa, comprising two varieties of a new species, are placed in Temochloa, representing a new genus record for China and Vietnam.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Plant responses to water stress"]

Six new species of Globba L. (Zingiberales, Zingiberaceae) from the Eastern Himalayas and Northeast India
We describe six new species in the genus Globba L.: Globba corniculata sp. nov., Globba paschimbengalensis sp. nov., Globba polymorpha sp. nov., Globba tyrnaensis sp. nov., Globba janakiae sp. nov., and Globba yadaviana sp. nov. collected from the Indian part of the Eastern Himalayas (West Bengal) and Northeast India. We provide a detailed morphological description of all six species along with photographic plates, distribution maps, and tentative conservation assessments. We also provide a dichotomous identification key for all the Indian Globba species and discuss the newly described species in relation to those that are morphologically similar to them. Finally, we highlight the taxonomic collection challenges in the ecologically sensitive Eastern Himalayas and Northeast regions of India.
["dancing girls ginger"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

The genus Coleus (Lamiaceae) in Central Africa (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Burundi), with the description of 15 new species
The genus Coleus is revised for DR. Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, based on herbarium taxonomy. Ninety-five taxa are reported (89 species, 1 subspecies, 5 varieties). Fifteen new species and one new variety are described (Coleus duvigneaudii, C. esculentus var. kolweziensis, C. hildei, C. kaminaensis, C. kundelunguensis, C. linarioides, C. lisowskii, C. marunguensis, C. minusculus, C. mitwabaensis, C. mystax, C. pengbelensis, C. piscatorum, C. pseudoschizophyllus, C. ruziziensis and C. zigzag). Fourteen species are newly recorded in DR. Congo and two species are newly recorded in Burundi. Four new combinations are made (Coleus betonicifolius var. kasomenensis, C. esculentus var. densus, C. esculentus var. primulinus and C. parvifolius). Ten names are lectotypified. One name is neotypified. Thirteen new synonyms are reported. Particular attention is paid to the Coleus bojeri complex. Three names are resurrected to accommodate the extensive variation patterns in Central Africa (C. chevalieri, C. collinus and C. heterotrichus); their distribution in Africa is outlined and the circumscription of C. bojeri is amended accordingly. Fifteen taxa are endemic to the study region. A determination key is provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Evidence for moth pollination in a rhinomyiophilous Erica species from the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa
Contrasting pollination syndromes in closely related species suggest that floral trait divergence is associated with differences in pollination system, but empirical observations are required to confirm syndrome-based predictions. We present a comparative study of two closely related Erica species with contrasting pollination syndromes from the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa. Erica cylindrica has narrowly tubular pale and strongly scented flowers and is known to be hawkmoth-pollinated. The closely related Erica infundibuliformis has bright flower colours and appears to lack scent, traits that are suggestive of pollination by long-tongued nemestrinid flies (rhinomyiophily). Floral trait measurements revealed that both species exhibit predominantly upright flower orientation and elongated floral tubes, although tube length of E. infundibuliformis is consistently greater than that of E. cylindrica. For both species, petals are brighter than floral tube surfaces, but flowers of E. cylindrica lack the strong UV reflectance found in E. infundibuliformis. Nectar of E. infundibuliformis is more concentrated and produced in larger volumes. Scent composition, but not evening scent emission rates, differed between the species: scent of E. cylindrica is dominated by aromatic compounds, whereas scent of E. infundibuliformis is dominated by (E)-ocimene and other terpenoid compounds and is emitted at higher rates during the day than the evening. Pollinator observations contradicted trait-based predictions: although a single nemestrinid fly captured in the vicinity of E. infundibuliformis did carry Erica pollen, almost all other diurnal flower visitors were nectar-robbing Hymenoptera which did not carry Erica pollen. Contrary to predictions, at two sites and over two flowering seasons, flowers were consistently visited in the evenings by several species of settling moths and hawkmoths which carried pollen, almost exclusively of Erica, on their proboscides. Our findings thus suggest that, despite objective differences in key floral traits between the closely related hawkmoth-pollinated E. cylindrica and E. infundibuliformis, moths are also important pollinators of E. infundibuliformis. A bimodal pollination system involving predominant pollination by moths and occasional visits by long-proboscid flies could partially reconcile findings with predictions. Our study further suggests that hawkmoth pollination may be more widespread in both Erica and the broader Cape flora than has hitherto been assumed and emphasises the importance of nocturnal pollinator observations.
["Colour"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Huperzia crassifolia (Lycopodiaceae), a new species from China based on morphological characters and molecular evidence
A new species of the firmoss from China, Huperzia crassifolia sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on morphological characters and molecular evidence. The new species resembles species associated with the H. javanica complex, in particular H. javanica based on leaf shape and serrations, but can be easily distinguished by elliptic lanceolate and thick coriaceous leaves, well differentiated seasonal constriction zones, and reflexed leaf margins when get dried. Phylogenomic reconstruction using whole chloroplast genome sequences recovered H. crassifolia as sister to H. sutchueniana and only distantly related to morphological similar species H. javanica, H. nanlingensis, and H. serrata. The genome size 2C = 17.2 pg indicated the new species to be a tetraploid, whereas diploid H. javanica had a genome size of 8.7 pg. Morphological characters, distribution, and conservation status of the new species are also presented.
["Firmoss"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

A new species and a new record of Phlomoides (Lamiaceae) from Xizang, China
Phlomoides bomiensis, a new species in Bomi County, Xizang, China, was described and illustrated. In addition, Phlomoides longidentata, previously only known from Nepal and Bhutan, is newly recorded from Dingri County, Xizang, China. The phylogenetic placement of both species within the genus was analysed using nine plastid DNA markers (atpB-rbcL, psbA-trnH, rpl16, rpl32-trnL, rps16, trnK, trnL-trnF, trnS-trnG, trnT-trnL). Both species have brown-black trichomes inside the upper corolla lip and nested within the same subclade of Clade II. A diagnostic key to the Phlomoides species belonging to this subclade is provided.
["Lamioideae"]

Yushania dezhui (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new bamboo species from Yunnan, China
A new bamboo species, Yushania dezhui, from Kunming, Yunnan, China is described and illustrated in this paper. The new species used to be misidentified as Y. polytricha. Based on careful comparison of morphological features and molecular phylogeny evidence, we confirmed its identity as a new member of the genus Yushania. Yushania dezhui resembles Y. maculata, Y. polytricha and Y. weixiensis in several aspects, such as culm height and branch complement structure. However, the glabrous culm leaf sheaths and internodes, the absence of auricles and oral setae on most foliage leaves, except the one-year-old foliage leaves, the pubescence on the adaxial surface of the one-year-old foliage leaves and its limestone habitat preference can readily distinguish this new species from its related taxa. Moreover, we emphasise that individuals from various populations and molecular markers with different inheritance patterns for phylogeny reconstruction should be included in new species discovery, especially in plant groups with complex evolutionary histories.
["Limestone montane area"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Plant responses to water stress"]

A revision of Lycianthes (Solanaceae) in tropical Asia
The genus Lycianthes (Dunal) Hassl. (Solanaceae) has in the past been treated as a section of the large genus Solanum L. but is more closely related to Capsicum L. Outside of the Americas, where the highest species diversity occurs, the genus is found in tropical and subtropical habitats from India to Japan and the Philippines, including the islands of Indonesia, New Guinea and the Solomons. The 19 species from Australia, New Guinea and the Pacific were treated in ‘PhytoKeys 209’. Here I treat the remaining 10 species occurring across Asia; including two native species, L. biflora (Lour.) Bitter and L. oliveriana (Lauterb. & K.Schum) Bitter, and one cultivated species, L. rantonnetii (Carrière) Bitter that were also included in the earlier work. The Asian species treated here occupy a wide range of forested and disturbed habitats and are diverse in habit, ranging from epiphytic vines to small or medium sized trees, shrubs or creeping herbs. Many of the species are weedy plants of highly disturbed habitats and are best characterised as “ochlospecies”, with complex polymorphic variation. Lycianthes rantonnetii, a species native to southern South America, is recorded as cultivated in India and Pakistan, but may be more widespread than collections indicate. The history of taxonomic treatments of Lycianthes in Asia is discussed, along with details of morphology found in all species. All species are treated in full, with complete morphological descriptions, including synonymy, lecto- or neotypifications, discussions of ecology and vernacular names, distribution maps and preliminary conservation assessments (for all except the cultivated L. rantonnetii). Searchable lists of all specimens examined are presented as Suppl. materials 1, 2.

Coptis austrogaoligongensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from West Yunnan, China
Based on morphological and plastid data, we have described and confirmed that Coptis austrogaoligongensis distributed in Tongbiguan Provincial Nature Reserve, Yingjiang County, Yunnan Province, is a new species of Coptis. It is distinctly different from C. teeta subsp. teeta and C. teeta subsp. lohitensis with differences mainly reflected in the following features: former leaf segment lobes contiguous to each other, and lateral segments equal to central one; plants without developed stolons; inflorescences with only 1–3 flowers; petals have short claws. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that C. austrogaoligongensis is a sister to C. teeta subsp. teeta and C. teeta subsp. lohitensis.
["Coptis"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Didymocarpus pingyuanensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species endemic to Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China, and two new combinations in Didymocarpus
Didymocarpus pingyuanensis, endemic to the Danxia landscape in Pingyuan County, Guangdong, China, is described and illustrated here. This species can be distinguished from other members of Didymocarpus sect. Heteroboea by its calyx deeply 5-lobed to about three quarters of its length. The phylogenetic position of the new species within Didymocarpus was examined using nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences. Based on phylogenetics analysis and morphological evidence, we propose two new combinations, elevating the two varieties to species level, namely D. yinzhengii and D. gamosepalus.
["Didymocarpus heucherifolius var. gamosepalus"]

Ixeridium nujiangense (Crepidinae, Cichorieae, Asteraceae), a new species from southwest Yunnan, China
In this paper, we describe Ixeridium nujiangense, a novel species identified in southwestern Yunnan, China. Two populations have been found along the riverbanks of the Nujiang River in Yongde and Zhenkang Counties. Morphologically, I. nujiangense is most similar to the recently described I. malingheense, but it can be readily distinguished by its mostly divided basal leaves, narrower non-clasping cauline leaves, notably shorter corolla tube, pale brown anthers, and considerably longer beak of achenes.
["Ixeridium malingheense"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Notes on the genus Syzygium (Myrtaceae) from Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, China and Taiwan
Syzygium kampotense is a new species from Cambodia. Syzygium cerasiforme, S. foxworthianum, and S. angkae and S. thorelii are new records from Cambodia, Vietnam and China, respectively. Syzygium prainianum subsp. minor and S. densinervium var. insulare are placed under S. prainianum and S. densinervium, respectively. Eugenia cochinchinensis, E. eburnea and E. ripicola, are reduced to synonymy under S. pellucidum. Lectotypes for Eugenia densiflora var. angustifolia, E. pellucida and E. pellucida var. contracta are designated.
["Lectotype"]

A recircumscription of Geocharis (Zingiberaceae) as a result of the discovery of a new species in Sumatra, Indonesia
Recent fieldwork conducted in Sumatra resulted in unusual collections of the conspicuous ginger genus Geocharis, a genus that harbours a total of six species distributed in Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula, Borneo and the Philippines. After carefully reviewing types and protologues of existing taxa, we conclude that the recent collections represent a new species described here as Geocharis globosa, which is similar to G. aurantiaca, G. rubra and G. radicalis by the flowers spreading evenly in all directions but differs from these by the less divided labellum and by the unstructured and smooth globose fruits. We provide a detailed description and a photographic plate as well as a preliminary Red List Assessment for the new species. With the new species added to Geocharis macrostemon and G. radicalis, the number of species in Sumatra hereby increases to three. A recircumscription of the genus is provided, taking into account the unusual fruit character of the new species.
["Geocharis globosa"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Two new species of Paraphlomis (Lamiales, Lamiaceae) from limestone karsts in Guangdong Province, China
Paraphlomis qingyuanensis and P. baiwanensis (Lamiaceae), two new species from the limestone area in Guangdong Province, China, are described. Morphologically, both species belong to P. ser. Subcoriaceae C.Y. Wu & H.W. Li. A close relationship between the two new and P. subcoriacea was revealed by molecular phylogenetic analyses based on ETS and ITS. Further morphological and population genetic evidence indicated that they are distinct species in Paraphlomis. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, P. qingyuanensis and P. baiwanensis were assessed as Endangered (EN) and Deficient (DD), respectively.
["IUCN"]

Eriotheca paganuccii (Bombacoideae, Malvaceae), a new endangered species from montane forests in the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, northeastern Brazil
A new species of Eriotheca (Bombacoideae, Malvaceae) from montane wet forests in the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, northeastern Brazil, is described and illustrated. It is known from only three populations situated between 750 m and 850 m in elevation on mountain summits and categorized as Endangered (EN) based on IUCN criteria. Eriotheca paganuccii is distinct from all congeners by the combination of coriaceous to strongly coriaceous leaves and remarkable few-seeded, globose to subglobose woody capsules that contain scanty kapok and the largest seeds known in the genus to date. The affinities of E. paganuccii to morphologically similar species as well as the importance of obtaining phenologically complete collections are discussed.
["Bahian southern Atlantic Forest"]

Cyrtomium adenotrichum (Dryopteridaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Cyrtomium adenotrichum Y. Nong & R.H. Jiang (Dryopteridaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is similar to C. nephrolepioides (Christ) Copel., C. obliquum Ching & K. H. Shing ex K. H. Shing, C. sinningense Ching & K. H. Shing ex K. H. Shing and C. calcis Liang Zhang, N.T.Lu & Li Bing Zhang in having erect rhizomes, dense, leathery lamina and rounded sori, but it can be easily distinguishable by its stipe sparsely glandular, base obvious oblique, basiscopic base truncate, acroscopic base auriculate or ovate.
["Gully"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

The polyphyletic Caucasus-centred Campanula subg. Scapiflorae (Campanulaceae) revisited with a newly circumscribed C. sect. Tridentatae for its core clade
Campanula L. is among the genera with the highest number of endemics in the Caucasus ecoregion. A group of attractive alpine and subalpine perennial rosette plants with short single-flowered stems centred in the Caucasus has been treated as Campanula subg. Scapiflorae or at other ranks, with considerably varying circumscription and classification. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of three plastid DNA regions (trnK/matK, petD, rpl16) of a strongly extended sampling, comprising 23 of the 27 commonly accepted taxa (85%) with 330 accessions built on and guided by the results of our previous study of the group, confirmed the polyphyly of C. subg. Scapiflorae in any of its circumscriptions. The core clade of the group comprises exclusively endemics and near-endemics of the Caucasus and is treated here as C. sect. Tridentatae in a revised circumscription. The phylogenetic relationships of the disparate other elements of the Scapiflorae group are outlined.
["Bellflower family"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Impatiens karenensis (Balsaminaceae), a new tiny flowered species from Myanmar
Impatiens karenensis (I. sect. Semeiocardium) from Kayin State, Myanmar is described and illustrated here. It is most similar to I. micromeris, but differs in having lower petals with outer margins strongly undulate in the lower half (vs. lower petals entire), apex of upper petals acute to obtuse (vs. apex rounded), short stout spur, ± as long as the depth of lower sepal, ca. 2.5 mm long (vs. long attenuate spur, twice as long as the depth of lower sepal, ca. 5 mm long). Its conservation status is also assessed as Critically Endangered.
["Critically endangered"]

Lappula effusa (Boraginaceae), a new species from Xinjiang, China
Lappula effusa D.H.Liu & W.J.Li, a new species of Boraginaceae from Xinjiang, China, is described and illustrated in this study. The new species is morphologically similar to Lappula himalayensis and L. tadshikorum. However, it can be distinguished from the compared species by several characteristics, such as: stem single, erect, frequently branched at middle and above, densely spreading hispid, hairs discoid at base; corolla white or blue; fruit compressed, heteromorphic nutlets with two rows of marginal glochids, nutlets acute ovoid, disc narrowly ovate-triangular. The diagnosis of the new species is supported with comprehensive investigation including photographs, detailed description, notes on etymology, distribution and habitat, conservation status, as well as comparisons with morphologically similar species.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Myrsine cirrhosa (Primulaceae), a distinctive new shrub species from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands
Myrsine cirrhosa Lorence & K.R.Wood (Primulaceae), a new single-island endemic shrub species from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated. Notes on its distribution, ecology and conservation status are included. The new species is known from an area with ca. 45 individuals, where it is restricted to the remote central windward region of Kaua‘i in open bogs and along open windy ridges. Suggested IUCN Red List status is CR (Critically Endangered). It differs from its Kaua‘i congeners by its longer petals and narrowly elliptic leaves with strongly undulate margins and tendril-like apex. Phylogenetic analysis using RADseq data supports the recognition of this new species.

Carex recondita Muñoz-Schüler, Martín-Bravo & Jim.Mejías (Carex section Junciformes Kük., Cyperaceae), a new sedge species from the Andes of central Chile
Carex section Junciformes is one of the most diverse groups of the genus in South America, consisting of approximately 30 species. Here we describe a new species, Carex recondita, belonging to this section. We studied its placement within a molecular phylogeny of the group and found it to constitute an independent lineage. The new species is morphologically very close to C. austroamericana, from southern Patagonia, despite being phylogenetically divergent to the rest of Patagonian species of sect. Junciformes. So far, this species is known only from a few specimens recently collected in its type locality, despite growing in a well-collected area in the Andes of Metropolitana Region of Santiago, the most populated administrative region of Chile. We provide a detailed morphological description, comments on its relationship with other Southern Cone species of sect. Junciformes and relevant ecological notes.
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Archaeology and Natural History", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Petrocodon liboensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Petrocodon liboensis Sheng H.Tang & Jia W.Yang is a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guizhou, southwestern China. The new taxon has a pale-yellow corolla and is most similar to P. luteoflorus. However, it differs from the latter by having a urceolate (vs. cannulate) corolla tube, an abaxial corolla lip 0.8–1.1 mm (vs. 2–2.2 mm) long, and filaments 1.5–1.7 mm (vs. ca. 7 mm) long that are straight (vs. S-shaped or geniculate near the middle). The new taxon is assessed as “Data Deficient” (DD) according to the IUCN standards.
["Didymocarpoideae"]

Molecular, morphological, and morphometric evidence reveal a new, critically endangered rattlepod (Crotalaria, Fabaceae/Leguminosae, Papilionoideae) from tropical China
Here, we describe a new species of Crotalaria L. discovered in Mengla County, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China. The new species, Crotalaria menglaensis S.A.Rather, was confirmed by identifying diagnostic morphological characteristics, performing principal component analyses of phenotypic traits, and phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear ITS and plastid matK sequences. Phylogenetic analyses recovered the two accessions of the new species to be sister to C. bracteata Roxb. ex DC. In turn, these two species formed the sister clade to the two accessions of C. incana L. The morphometric analyses revealed that all three species were distinct, while the analyses of distinctive characters enabled unambiguous distinction of the new species by its growth habit, leaflets, flower structure and pod morphology. In contrast to the two related species, the new species is currently known only from ca. 100 mature individuals. Thus, this species is considered to be critically endangered.
["Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

A missing piece is found: a new species of Paepalanthus (Poales, Eriocaulaceae) and the puzzling relations of the campos rupestres mountaintop floras of eastern Minas Gerais, Brazil
Paepalanthus is a diverse genus characteristic of the campos rupestres, a megadiverse vegetation found on mountaintops of mainly quartzitic mountain ranges of central-eastern Brazil. Recent efforts on prospecting the biodiversity of Serra do Padre Ângelo, a small mountain complex in eastern Minas Gerais, yielded several new plant and animal species, highlighting the urgency of conservation actions towards this still unprotected area. Here, we describe yet another new species found in the campos rupestres of these mountains, Paepalanthus magnus, a mountaintop microendemic species morphologically similar to taxa found in the Espinhaço Range, over 200 km distant, a biogeographic pattern shared by several other species. The affinities of the new species are discussed, and we provide illustrations, photographs, and SEM photomicrographs of the seed. We also discuss the conservation status of the species, which is preliminarily assessed as Critically Endangered, reinforcing the urgent need to address the conservation of the unique biodiversity of Serra do Padre Ângelo.

Amalophyllon miraculum (Gesneriaceae), an exceptionally small lithophilous new species from the western Andean slopes of Ecuador
Recent exploratory field expeditions to the western slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes resulted in the discovery of a new species of Amalophyllon (Gesneriaceae). Amalophyllon miraculum J.L.Clark, sp. nov. is described from two localities in the Centinela region in the Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas province. The new species is differentiated from congeners by the pendent habit, basal rosette of leaves, leaf blades with deeply serrate margins, and miniature size. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned as Critically Endangered (CR).

Impatiens yingjingensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
This study describes Impatiens yingjingensis X.Q. Song, B.N. Song & Biao Yang, sp. nov., a new species collected from the Yingjing area of the Giant Panda National Park. This new species is distributed at an altitude of 1400–2100 m, with a plant height of 30–130 cm. The flowers are purple-red or light purple red, with 3–9 flowers on each inflorescence and the dorsal auricle of the lateral united petals is thread-like and about 2 cm long, differing significantly from other species of Impatiens. Furthermore, molecular data, as well as micro-morphological evidence under SEM (of pollens), also support the establishment of the new species.

Seven new species of Rinorea (Violaceae) from the Neotropics
Over the course of revising the genus Rinorea (Violaceae) from Colombia, field observations and herbarium studies revealed seven new species. Several of the new species described here belong to species complexes that required examination of herbarium material from across the Neotropics. Each of the new species described here have oppositely arranged leaves and belong to Rinorea sect. Pubiflorae, a section restricted to the Neotropics. Two new species are segregated from the R. ovalifolia species complex: Rinorea chiribiquetensis from Chiribiquete National Park in the Colombian Amazon and Rinorea stevensii from the Orinoco River near the border of Colombia and Venezuela. Two new species are segregated from the Rinorea hirsuta species complex: Rinorea galeanoae-bernalii and Rinorea cogolloi, both from the eastern slopes of the Andean Central Cordillera along the mid-Magdalena River Valley in Colombia. From the widely distributed R. pubiflora species complex, we segregated one new species, Rinorea callejasii, from southeast Panama and the Chocó in Colombia. In addition to these five new taxa segregated from widely distributed species complexes, we discovered two previously unknown species with affinities to other Neotropical Rinorea. Rinorea aymardii is described from the Alto Orinoco-Casiquiare Biosphere Reserve in Venezuela and most closely resembles R. melanodonta from Colombia. Rinorea betancurii is segregated from R. macrocarpa and occurs in the Amazonian Regions of Colombia, Brazil, Peru and Venezuela. In this study, we provide descriptions, illustrations and distribution maps of the new species and make preliminary assessments of the risk of extinction using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. We also furnish an identification key to the species of Rinorea sect. Pubiflorae in Colombia.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Five new species in the genus Staurosirella (Bacillariophyta) from European freshwater habitats
Several populations belonging to the genus Staurosirella have been observed in European rivers that were previously identified as Staurosirella pinnata. In light of the recent taxonomic revisions of the genus Staurosirella, the morphology of the unknown Staurosirella populations has been critically investigated using light and scanning electron microscopy. Following the comparison with previously described Staurosirella species, five taxa could not be identified using the currently available literature on the genus. These five taxa are described as new based on differences in valve outline; shape, size and structure of the apical pore fields; structure of the striae; and the presence, position and structure of the marginal spines. Two new species were described using historic collection material: Staurosirella binodiformis sp. nov. and Svanheurckiana sp. nov. Two new species were observed in samples from rivers in Flanders: S. marginostriata sp. nov. and S. stoksiana sp. nov. whereas a fifth species was observed in rivers from Iceland: S. jonssoniana sp. nov. All new species are compared with similar Staurosirella species worldwide. Notes are added on their ecological preferences derived from both physicochemical data and the associated diatom flora.
["Europe"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Analytical chemistry methods development"]

Orthotrichum camanchacanum, a remarkable new moss species from Chile (Bryopsida, Orthotrichaceae)
Orthotrichum camanchacanum is presented as a newly described species from Chile. The species is primarily distinguished by its emergent capsule with cryptoporous stomata, a double peristome, linear-lanceolate stem leaves with a long hyaline aristae in apex, conspicuously differentiated perichaetial leaves, and a densely hairy vaginula. The species was discovered in the mountain massif of the Andes in the Coquimbo region, notable for its unique climatic conditions. Molecular data and a brief discussion comparing the newly described species with the most closely related taxa are also provided.
["Bryophytes"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "European Cultural and National Identity", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Cocconeis crisscrossis sp. nov., a new monoraphid diatom (Bacillariophyta) from southern China
A novel monoraphid diatom species, Cocconeis crisscrossis You, Yu, Kociolek & Wang, sp. nov. is examined and described from the Qingyi River and Maolan Nature Reserve of southern China. The morphological description is based on light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy observations and the new species is compared with similar taxa in this genus. The characteristics unique to Cocconeis crisscrossis sp. nov. include its central area extending irregularly to both sides, it having closed valvocopulae with heavily silicified fimbriate margins and poles of the valvocopulae have ‘sword-shaped’ siliceous extensions. These features differentiate this new species from others in the genus. This new species was found in alkaline waterbodies, including streams, waterfall and ponds. It was usually found as an epiphyte on the stones; however, it was present on other substrates such as mosses.
["diatoms"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Vaccinium dehongense (Ericaceae), a new species of Vaccinium sect. Epigynium from western Yunnan, China
Vaccinium dehongense (Ericaceae), a new species from Yingjiang County of Yunnan Province, China is described and illustrated. This new species belongs to Vaccinium sect. Epigynium and is most similar to V. vacciniaceum, but differs from the latter in the subsessile leaves, the inflorescence usually developing at leafless nodes, the shorter pedicels and the filaments being ca. 1/3 length of the stamens. Since the type locality of this new species is very near the border between China and Myanmar, it is probably also distributed in the adjacent area of Myanmar. As no population assessment of this species in its whole distribution area is made, it is best to assign a conservation status of ‘Data Deficient’ (DD) for this species.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Viola suavis var. pannonica (Violaceae), a new white-flowered violet from central Europe
Viola suavis var. pannonica (Violaceae) from central Europe is described here as a new variety to science. It is most similar to the blue-flowered V. suavis var. suavis and the white-flowered V. suavis var. catalonica and V. suavis subsp. naqshii, but exhibits differences in several characters, such as petal colour, spur shape, fimbriae length on the stipules, bracteoles position on the peduncle and lamina sinus shape. Although the new taxon is often considered a colour mutation of V. suavis var. suavis, previous genetic analyses revealed that these white-flowered plants do not arise recurrently at different locations (having multiple origins), but rather form a monophyletic evolutionary lineage. To date, the occurrence of V. suavis var. pannonica has been reported in the Slovak Republic, the Czech Republic and western Ukraine. In this paper, we report its occurrence in Austria and Hungary. Notes on its etymology, distribution, ecology, origin and hybridization, as well as photographs of the new variety (including the holotype) are also provided.
["Pannonia"]
["Biochemical and Structural Characterization", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Primula weiliei (Primulaceae), a new species from Hubei, Central China
In this study, we describe and illustrate a new species, Primula weiliei L.S.Yang, Z.K.Wu & G.W.Hu, from the Shennongjia Forestry District, Hubei Province in Central China. It is morphologically assigned to Primula sect. Aleuritia based on its dwarf and hairless habit, long petiole, fruits longer than calyx and covered by farina on the scape. This new species is similar to P. gemmifera and P. munroi subsp. yargongensis in the same section, but it can be distinguished by its smaller calyxes, homostylous flowers, corolla tube throat without annular appendage and only 1–2 flowers in each inflorescence. Based on the assessment conducted according to the IUCN Red List criteria, we propose that P. weiliei be classified as a Critically Endangered (CR) species.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Chimonobambusa pleiacantha (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new species from southeast Sichuan, China
Chimonobambusa pleiacantha, a newly-identified species of the genus Chimonobambusa Makino from southeast Sichuan, China, is meticulously described and illustrated herein. It is morphologically similar to Ch. tuberculata, but differs in having 4-angled internodes, thicker wall to 4.5–8.5 mm, more reclinate and elongated root thorns to 5–8 mm long, culm internodes with three grooves and two longitudinal ridges on the branch-bearing side, persistent culm leaves, densely brown-purple setose at the bottom of culm leaf sheaths together with sheath scar, developed foliage leaf fimbriae, 6–8 on each shoulder, ca. 3–8 mm long, abaxially white pubescent foliage leaf blades. Phenologically, new shoots usually appear in September to October. In the light of these key morphological and phenological characteristics, Ch. pleiacantha was identified as a new species of the genus Ch. Makino which is different from published species of this genus.
["Bambuseae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Vietnamese History and Culture Studies"]

Carex duanensis (Carex sect. Rhomboidales), a new species of Cyperaceae from limestone areas of Guangxi, China
Carex duanensis Z.C.Lu, Y.F.Lu & X.F.Jin, a new species in limestone areas of Guangxi, China, was discovered and described. The morphology showed that C. duanensis is similar to C. calcicola, but differs in having culms central, leaf blades 3–5.5 mm wide, bracts longer than spikes, utricles 4–5 mm long, shorter, and nutlets abruptly contracted into an erect beak at apex. SEM microphotographs of utricles and nutlets are provided for the new and related species, C. calcicola.
["Carex duanensis"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Impatiens beipanjiangensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Impatiens beipanjiangensis Jian Xu & H. F. Hu (Balsaminaceae), a new species of Impatiens subg. Clavicarpa discovered in Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated in this study along with its molecular phylogenetic analysis. I. beipanjiangensis is similar to I. liboensis, I. chishuiensis and I. clavigera in morphology, but I. tubulosa has the closest relationship to it. However, there are various ways in which the new species can be easily distinguished from these four species: Inferior nodes swollen rhizoid, pale green and with hooked outer sepals, longer lateral united petals, subovate auricle, deeper lower sepal and shorter spur that is reflexed towards the lower sepal. Furthermore, I. beipanjiangensis is distinguished from other Impatiens species, based on morphological, micromorphological and palynological evidence and molecular data (PP 0.967).

Asplenium guodanum (Aspleniaceae), a distinct new fern species from northern Guangdong, China, based on morphological data and molecular phylogeny
A new spleenwort species, Asplenium guodanum, was found and described from Danxia landform region in Guangdong, China. The new species has close resemblance to A. subcrenatum Ching ex S.H.Wu in morphology, but can be distinguished by having plants small, stipes and rachises not covered with fibrous scales, relatively fewer pairs of pinnae, pinnae short, pinna margin weakly biserrate, pinna apex acute and lower pinnae obviously reduced. Phylogenetic analyses, based on six plastid markers (atpB, rbcL, rps4 & rps4-trnS and trnL & trnL-F) of the new species and its relatives, support a close relationship between A. guodanum and A. subcrenatum. Only one population with no more than 50 individuals were found and, therefore, it is recommended to be classified as Critically Endangered (CR) following IUCN Red List Criteria.
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

New record of Gracilaria phuquocensis (Gracilariaceae, Rhodophyta) in the Philippines
While reliance on morphology has been at the expense of clearly distinguishing gracilarioid species, molecular data have proven to be more reliable in discriminating between taxa. Gracilaria phuquocensis was originally described, based on materials collected from Vietnam. Since it was described in 2020, there have been no further reports of this species. Meanwhile, a question has been raised as to whether the identity of a rhodophyte gracilarioid alga collected from the Philippines that has been referred to as an unidentified species of Gracilaria, could be G. phuquocensis. Based on comparative morpho-anatomical features and a molecular phylogeny based on rbcL gene sequences, establishing the identity of the Philippine material has led to the finding of the new record of G. phuquocensis outside its type locality. In addition to the discovery of G. phuquocensis in the Philippines, the species here is also identified as a newly-reported host for the adelphoparasite resembling Gracilaria babae.
["Agarophyte"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Carex qingyuanensis (Cyperaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China
Carex qingyuanensis, a new species of Cyperaceae from Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to Carex peliosanthifolia F. T. Wang & Tang ex P. C. Li, but it can be distinguished by the racemose inflorescence branches appearing single (rarely binate or ternate) (vs. binate or ternate), one (rarely two or three) (vs. 1–3) spiked, male part of linear-cylindrical spikes much longer than the female part (vs. just male part short-cylindrical and slightly longer than female part), style base thickened (vs. not thickened) and perigynium horizontally patent with a short (vs. long and excurved) beak. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the two nuclear DNA regions (ETS 1f and ITS) and three chloroplast DNA regions (matK, ndhF and rps16), suggests that the new species belongs to sect. Siderostictae s.s. of subg. Siderosticta and shows a closer phylogenetic relationship to Carex scaposa C. B. Clarke.
["Carex sect. Siderostictae s.s."]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Callicarpa yongshunensis (Lamiaceae): A new species from Hunan, China
This study provides detailed description of a newly-discovered Callicarpa yongshunensis Wen B. Xu, Xiao D. Li & Yan Ling Liu (Lamiaceae) species from Hunan, China. The species shares similarities in the inflorescence, glandular colour and leaf shape features with C. luteopunctata H. T. Chang and C. giraldii Hesse ex Rehd., while its white fruits are similar to those of C. longifolia Lamk. However, its procumbent, evergreen shrub and white fruits are distinctly different from those of C. luteopunctata and C. giraldii, while its procumbent, scarless nodes and stellate pubescence free fruits distinguishes it from C. longifolia. Images, distribution, morphological features, molecular phylogenetic classification and conservation assessment of this new Callicarpa species are explored.
["Callicarpa"]

Carex linanensis (sect. Mitratae), a new species of Cyperaceae from Zhejiang, East China
Carex linanensis X.D.Qiu & X.F.Jin, a new species in sect. Mitratae of the sedge family (Cyperaceae) from north-western Zhejiang is described and illustrated. We performed a statistical comparison of the new species with other closely-related species from the same section. Carex linanensis is similar to Carex sachalinensis F.Schmidt, but differs in having leaf blades 1–2 mm wide (vs. 2.5–3.5 mm wide), utricles longer than pistillate glumes, with beak margin smooth (vs. barbate) and peduncles of lateral spikes enclosed in bract sheaths (vs. exserted from bract sheaths).
["Carex linanensis"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Archaeology and Natural History", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Mazus jiangshiense (Mazaceae), a new species from China: evidence from morphological and molecular analyses
Utilising both morphological and molecular analyses, this study unveils Mazus jiangshiense sp. nov., a novel addition to the Mazaceae family, discovered in Shaowu County, Fujian Province, China. The comprehensive description and illustrations provided here are a result of a meticulous exploration of its morphological features. While bearing a resemblance to M. gracilis, this new-found species is distinguished by three distinct characteristics: its stems are delicately soft, its leaves possess a membranous quality and the ovary is notably villous at the apex. Integration of molecular evidence, derived from the nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrITS) and three plastid DNA sequences (rps16, rbcL and trnL-trnF), unequivocally supports the classification of M. jiangshiense as a distinct species. Notably, the molecular analysis positions it as a sister species to M. spicatus, underscoring the phylogenetic relationships within the genus Mazus. Our research not only introduces M. jiangshiense as a novel taxonomic entity, but also provides a nuanced understanding of its morphological differences and molecular affinities, enriching our comprehension of the diversity and evolutionary relationships of Mazaceae.
["Lamiales"]

Thliphthisa sapphus (Rubiaceae, Rubieae), a new species from Lefkada (Ionian Islands, Greece) and its ecological position
The new species, Thliphthisa sapphus sp. nov. (Rubiaceae, Rubieae), a narrow endemic of the white cliffs of Lefkátas on the southwest coast of Lefkada (Greece) is described and illustrated and an IUCN assessment is presented. Vegetation relevés were performed at the single known locality, limestone cliffs facing the sea and revealed a new association, the Thliphthisa sapphus-Lomelosietum dallaportae. The chromosome number of Thliphthisa sapphus was determined as 2n = 4x = 44, being the single tetraploid species in the genus to date. The species also differs markedly morphologically from its morphologically closest relatives, two Greek steno-endemic oreophytes, Th. baenitzii and Th. muscosa by the following characters: densely setose mericarps and corolla, tetraploidy and by its distribution. An identification key for the Greek species of Thliphthisa is provided. Th. sapphus constitutes the westernmost outpost of a group of Greek steno-endemics, highlighting the importance of coastal habitats and their protection as refugia for poorly competitive chamaephytes.
["Asperula"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A new species and a replacement name in Cynanchum (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadeae) from China
Cynanchum pingtaoi S.Jin Zeng, G.D.Tang & Miao Liao, sp. nov. (Apocynaceae) from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular evidence. Its deeply cordate to reniform leaves and campanulate, large flowers show that it is a member of former Raphistemma Wall., which has been included in Cynanchum L.. It is different from all former Raphistemma species by the broadly ovate corolla lobes, purple-red corolla and connivent corona tip slightly exceeding the corolla throat. Meanwhile, Cynanchum longhushanense G.D.Tang & Miao Liao, nom. nov. is proposed as replacement name for Raphistemma brevipedunculatum Y.Wan, which was considered a synonym of Cynanchum hooperianum (Blume) Liede & Khanum but is here reinstated as a distinct species because of significant morphological differences.
["Cynanchum hooperianum"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Bioactive Compounds"]

Description of Navicula vanseea sp. nov. (Naviculales, Naviculaceae), a new species of diatom from the highly alkaline Lake Van (Republic of Türkiye) with complete characterisation of its organellar genomes and multigene phylogeny
The current article describes Navicula vanseea sp. nov., a new species of diatom from Lake Van, a highly alkaline lake in Eastern Anatolia (Türkiye). The description is based on light and scanning electron microscopy performed on two monoclonal cultures. The complete nuclear rRNA clusters and plastid genomes have been sequenced for these two strains and the complete mitogenome for one of them. The plastome of both strains shows the probable loss of a functional ycf35 gene. They also exhibit two IB4 group I introns in their rrl, each encoding for a putative LAGLIDADG homing endonuclease, with the first L1917 IB4 intron reported amongst diatoms. The Maximum Likelihood phylogeny inferred from a concatenated alignment of 18S, rbcL and psbC distinguishes N. vanseea sp. nov. from the morphologically similar species Navicula cincta and Navicula microdigitoradiata.
["Group I intron"]

Morphology and phylogeny of Nitzschia nandorii sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae), a new small-celled lanceolate species from a post-mining reservoir
Post-mining reservoirs are distinguished by characteristic environmental conditions where specific diatom communities can be observed. Reservoirs created as a part of the reclamation plan after human mining activities are marked by unique chemical and physical water parameters. In the course of research on the diatoms from Bogdałów reservoir, we examined the taxonomic and morphological diversity of Nitzschia taxa from the section Lanceolatae occurring in a post-mining lignite reservoir. Our study describes a new species of Nitzschia from a post-mining reservoir, Nitzschia nandorii Olszyński, Zakrzewski & Żelazna-Wieczorek, sp. nov. Morphometry and morphology analyses of new species were performed with light and scanning electron microscopy. Chloroplast morphology analysis was conducted with differential interference contrast microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Molecular data from SSU 18S, rbcL and psbC sequences were obtained from cultures of this taxon. Differential diagnosis of Nitzschia nandorii Olszyński, Zakrzewski & Żelazna-Wieczorek, sp. nov. with co-occurring taxa: N. lacuum and N. alpinobacillum was performed using morphological traits and nMDS analysis of the valves’ morphometry.
["Diatom"]

Oxalis xishuiensis (Oxalidaceae), a new species from Danxia landforms in Guizhou, China
Oxalis xishuiensis, a new species of Oxalidaceae from Danxia landforms of Xishui County, Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to O. wulingensis by the two lateral leaflets arranged at about 180° angle and oblong pink petals with lilac veins, but clearly differs from the latter by leaflets almost as long as wide, obliquely obcordate lateral leaflets, shorter peduncles, longer capsule (1.2–1.5 cm vs. 0.5–0.7 cm) and alveolate seeds.

Two new diatom species of the genus Gomphonemopsis (Bacillariophyceae) from the coast of China and two new combinations for the genus
Two new diatom species belonging to the genus Gomphonemopsis are described, Gomphonemopsis nana sp. nov. and Gomphonemopsis gaoi sp. nov. These two species were compared in detail with congeners. Gomphonemopsis nana is distinguished by its high stria density and small size. This species was found so far to be epiphytic only on the eelgrass collected from Qingdao Bay (Yellow Sea). Gomphonemopsis gaoi is characterized by its isopolar valves, simple proximal raphe endings and acutely rounded apices. This taxon was separated from the exoskeleton of marine copepods sampled from the Futian Mangrove Nature Reserve (South China Sea). In addition, two new combinations, Gomphonemopsis oahuensis (Hustedt) Lang Li, Yuhang Li & Changping Chen, comb. nov. and Gomphonemopsis platypus (Østrup) Lang Li, Yuhang Li & Junxiang Lai, comb. nov. are proposed. This study increases the records and knowledge of Gomphonemopsis along the coast of China.
["Diatom"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Glochidion yangchunense (Phyllanthaceae), a new species with discoid flowers from Guangdong Province, China
Phyllanthodendron can be readily morphologically distinguished from Glochidion, but recent molecular evidence showed that Phyllanthodendron is paraphyletic due to Glochidion being nested within it. In this study, a new species of the former Phyllanthodendron is described and illustrated as Glochidion yangchunense Z.Q. Song & Gang Yao from the limestone areas of South China. This is a peculiar new species and morphologically distinguished by its discoid flowers, T-shaped disc segments, and glabrous flowering branches. A key to Glochidion yangchunense and related species in China is provided here.
["Karst"]

Gentiana mopanshanensis (Gentianaceae), a new species from Yunnan, southwest China
Gentiana mopanshanensis, a new species of the family Gentianaceae is here described and illustrated. This species is presently known only from the Mopanshan Mountain, Yunnan Province, southwest China. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS sequence data has shown that this new species is a member of the series Fimbriatae of the section Chondrophyllae. Morphologically, it mostly resembles G. mairei and G. panthaica, but differs clearly from the latter two species in the shape and size of the leaves, and the characters of the corolla throat and plicae.
["Diffuse herbs"]

Ajania flavida (Asteraceae, Anthemideae), a distinct new species from southwestern China
Ajania flavida, a new species from western Sichuan and eastern Xizang, China, is described and illustrated. It is readily assigned to A. sect. Ajania owing to its straw-colored, glossy involucres and marginally whitish scarious phyllaries. Within the section, it is distinct in being a shrub of 1−2 m in height, and in having creamy yellow florets. It is superficially similar to A. ramosa in A. sect. Phaeoscyphus, but can easily be distinguished by, among other characters, the plant height, color of the florets and margins of the phyllaries. In addition, we provide a distribution map of the new species.
["Compositae"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Dryopteris jinpingensis, a critically endangered diploid new species of Dryopteridaceae from Yunnan, China
Dryopteris jinpingensis, a new species of diploid, sexually reproductive ferns of Dryopteridaceae from Yunnan, southwestern China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, D. jinpingensis is similar to D. gaoligongensis but unique in elongated lanceolate laminae, sessile or subsessile pinna stalks, and overlapping membranous scales adnate to stipe base. Phylogenetic analyses based on both plastome and the nuclear AK1 gene sequences showed that D. jinpingensis is sister to D. gaoligongensis. A detailed taxonomic description with line drawings is provided, and its conservation status is evaluated to be critically endangered.
["Dryopteris sect. Diclisodon"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Taxonomic notes on the genus Itea (Iteaceae)
The genus Itea (Iteaceae) is recognised as a genus with about 21 extant species of shrubs and trees. Within the genus, most species have oblong to elliptical leaves. The lanceolate and obolanceolate leaves are only found in three species, vix Itea amoena Chun, Itea riparia Collett & Hemsl. and Itea tenuinervia S. Y. Liu. The results of our examination of literature, specimens and living plants in the wild have shown that Itea tenuinervia is conspecific with Itea riparia and is here reduced to a synonym of the latter species. The morphological description, colour pictures, voucher specimens, distribution map of Itea riparia and its related Itea amoena, together with the morphological comparisons between the two species, are provided in this study.

Taxonomic revision of Camellia (Theaceae) in Thailand
Natural plants of Camellia (Theaceae) in Thailand are taxonomically revised with a key, a distribution map, descriptions, specimens examined, and figures of living plants and/or dry specimens. Nine taxa comprising seven species and two varieties are recognized, including C. caudata, C. connata, C. furfuracea, C. kissi, C. kissi var. confusa, C. laotica, C. sinensis var. assamica, C. suddeeana, and C. taliensis. Camellia caudata and C. laotica are new records to Thailand, and C. connata and C. suddeeana are endemic to the country. Formerly recorded C. pleurocarpa and C. tenii are excluded from Thai flora because of misidentification, and C. oleifera and C. sinensis are merely cultivated in the country. Morphological descriptions of C. connata and C. laotica are improved based on additional collections examined.
["Assam tea"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Chimonobambusa farcta (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new species from western Guangxi, China with taxonomic notes on C. pubescens and C. luzhiensis
Chimonobambusa farcta, a new species of temperate woody bamboos from western Guangxi, China is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to C. pubescens in the solid internodes of culms, but differs in having taller culm to 7 m with longer verrucose internodes to 23.5 cm and intranodes to 4 mm, intranode usually with a ring of 7–9 root thorns below mid-culm, abaxially brown or brown-purple verrucose-setose culm leaf sheaths with indistinct transverse veins, conspicuously developed culm leaf blades to 3.2 cm long, longer foliage leaf sheaths to 5.2 cm, larger and broader foliage leaf blades to 22 × 1.4 cm. It also somewhat resembles C. convoluta, but can be easily distinguished by having solid internodes and longer intranode 2–4 mm, very prominent nodes with supranodal ridge obviously more elevated than sheath scar, usually persistent and sometimes brownish striate culm leaf sheaths, longer culm leaf blades to 3.2 cm, and abaxially glabrous foliage leaf sheaths. Based on the morphological characteristics, this new species is assigned to C. sect. Chimonobambusa. The character description of C. pubescens are revised for its culm to 2.1 m tall, 1.1 cm in diameter and glabrous foliage leaf blades. The systematic position of C. luzhiensis is discussed, and this species is proposed as a member of C. sect. Chimonobambusa.
["Amphipodial rhizome"]

An account of the genus Cistanche (Orobanchaceae) in Iraq and taxonomic considerations in the Middle East
Species limits in the genus Cistanche are poorly understood, despite the plants’ long history of use in traditional herbal medicine and food across their range. Here we present a taxonomic account for the genus Cistanche in Iraq, where several taxa have been reported, most of them doubtfully. Using herbarium specimens, images of living material, and taxonomic literature, we found evidence of only one species occurring with certainty in Iraq: Cistanche tubulosa. We found no evidence for the occurrence of other Cistanche species in Iraq, including a putative new entity reported for the region. Our work highlights inconsistencies in the literature, and underscores the importance of examining multiple stable characters for delimiting species in the genus Cistanche.
["Nomenclature"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Ophiorrhiza reflexa (Rubiaceae), a new species from a karst region in Guangxi, China
Ophiorrhiza reflexa, a new species from Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated in this study. It is morphologically similar to O. alatiflora due to the branched inflorescence, distylous flowers and the tubular-funnelform corolla with five longitudinal wings. The new species can be distinguished from O. alatiflora by its erect inflorescence, its smaller and equal-sized calyx lobes 0.5–0.7 mm long, its corolla tubes winged to the middle and the wings straight and its strongly reflexed corolla lobes at anthesis. Ophiorrhiza reflexa is assessed as least concern (LC) according to IUCN Categories and Criteria.

Atlas Florae Europaeae notes, 33. Taxonomic synopsis of East European species of the Cytisus ratisbonensis group (Fabaceae)
A group of species of Cytisus sect. Tubocytisus with strictly lateral inflorescences, commonly referred to as C. ratisbonensis s.l., is critically revised in Eastern Europe on the basis of morphology and comprehensive treatment of herbarium specimens and observations. Seven species and two presumed hybrids are recognised. Complete accounts are provided for each species, with synonyms, typifications, brief morphological descriptions, data on ecology and distributions, taxonomic and nomenclatural annotations. Cytisus polonicus is described as new to science, separated from C. ratisbonensis on the basis of morphology and diploid (vs. tetraploid) chromosome count. The lectotype of C. elongatus is superseded and a new lectotype is designated; this name has priority for the species previously known as C. triflorus. Six species names are newly placed to the synonymy: Chamaecytisus pineticola under Cytisus ruthenicus s. str., and Cytisus czerniaevii, C. leucotrichus, C. lindemannii, C. ponomarjovii and Chamaecytisus korabensis under Cytisus elongatus. The presumed hybrid between C. ruthenicus and C. elongatus, which was incorrectly known as C. czerniaevii, is described here as C. semerenkoanus. Cytisus lithuanicus, which has been an obscure name since its original publication, is resurrected for a newly-recognised octoploid species, which is endemic to eastern Poland, western Belarus and north-western Ukraine. The name C. cinereus is re-instated for the species previously known as C. paczoskii, and C. horniflorus is added to its synonymy; its complete distribution area is circumscribed, and its occurrence in Austria, Poland, Romania, Serbia and Slovakia is documented. Cytisus kreczetoviczii and C. elongatus are reported for the first time from Belarus, and the latter species also from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Slovenia. Cytisus borysthenicus and C. elongatus are reported as new to some territories in European Russia. Cytisus ratisbonensis s. str. is treated as absent from Eastern Europe. The neglected protologue of C. ruthenicus is discovered, and the nomenclature of all other names is verified and corrected when necessary. The original material of C. borysthenicus is re-discovered. Five further lectotypes and one neotype are designated. Distribution areas are circumscribed on the basis of numerous herbarium collections and documented observations, identified or verified by the authors. Chromosome counts published for nameless taxa from Belarus, Ukraine and Russia are assigned to the species according to their herbarium vouchers: C. borysthenicus, C. kreczetoviczii and C. lithuanicus are octoploid (2n = 100), C. ruthenicus is tetraploid (2n = 50) and octoploid (2n = 100), and C. semerenkoanus and C. elongatus are tetraploid (2n = 50).
["Belarus"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Using scanning electron microscopy and molecular data to discover a new species from old herbarium collections: The case of Phlomoides henryi (Lamiaceae, Lamioideae)
Phlomoides is one of the largest genera of Lamiaceae with approximately 150–170 species distributed mainly in Eurasia. In this study, we describe and illustrate a new species, P. henryi, which was previously misidentified as P. bracteosa, from Yunnan Province, southwest China. Molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed that P. henryi is found within a clade in which most species lack basal leaves. In this clade, the new species is morphologically distinct from P. rotata in having an obvious stem and, from the rest, by having transparent to white trichomes inside the upper corolla lip. In addition, micro-features of trichomes on the calyx and leaf epidermis can differentiate the new species from other species grouped in the same clade and a key, based on trichome morphology for these species, is provided. The findings demonstrate that the use of scanning electron microscopy can reveal inconspicuous morphological affinities amongst morphologically similar species and play an important role in the taxonomic study of the genus Phlomoides.
["Micromorphology"]
["Law and Political Science", "European and International Law Studies", "European Union Policy and Governance"]

A new species of Typhonium (Araceae) from Vietnam
Typhonium obtusum is described as a new species endemic to Vietnam. It is unique in the genus in having an oblong-elliptic spathe limb with an obtuse apex and yellowish-greenish filiform staminodes with a down-curved acumen. The ecology, distribution and assessment of the conservation status of the new taxon, as well as a key to all known Typhonium species in Vietnam, are provided.
["Araceae"]
["Plant Genetic and Mutation Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant responses to water stress"]

Re-assessment of type material of Plagiothecium novae-seelandiae Broth. and descriptions of four new Plagiothecium taxa (Bryophyta, Plagiotheciaceae) from Australasia
A re-examination of the original collection of Plagiothecium novae-seelandiae described by Brotherus in 1916 indicated that this material is not homogeneous. Re-examination of the diagnosis of this species and morphological analysis supports that two separate taxa should be distinguished – Plagiothecium novae-seelandiae var. novae-seelandiae and P. novae-seelandiae var. brotheri var. nov. Also, comparisons with the original collection of Hypnum lamprostachys (= P. lamprostachys) showed differences, which supported their treatment as separate taxa. Revision of the genus Plagiothecium from Australasia (CANB, CHR, HO, MEL, WELT) and types of other species described from this part of the world (P. funale and P. lucidum) supported by the study of their diagnoses, qualitative and quantitative characteristics as well as mathematical analyses (PCA, HCA) allowed the division of the examined material into six separate groups – six separate taxa. Thereby, three distinct taxa are proposed – P. cordatum sp. nov., P. semimortuum sp. nov., and P. semimortuum var. macquariense var. nov. All taxa mentioned above are described in detail, their current known distribution and ecological preferences are also included. In addition, images illustrating their most important taxonomic features, as well as an original key to distinguish individual taxa are presented.

Ligularia lushuiensis (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a new species from northwestern Yunnan, China
Ligularia lushuiensis, a new species from northwestern Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. It was tentatively placed in L. sect. Ligularia ser. Ligularia on the basis of the pinnate-palmate leaf venation, racemose synflorescence and pappus which is as long as tubular corolla. Within the series, it appeared somewhat close to both L. lamarum and L. pseudolamarum. However, L. lushuiensis can be easily distinguished from the latter two species by, among other characters, the leaf margin, bract size, involucre shape and size, and number and width of ray florets. Morphologically, L. lushuiensis is also superficially similar to L. secunda but differs readily by having distally shortly yellowish and brownish puberulent stems, palmately-pinnately veined leaves regularly dentate at margin, scarious, brown and larger bracts, and larger ray laminae. In addition, a distribution map and a diagnostic key to Chinese species of L. ser. Ligularia are also provided.
["Compositae"]
["Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

Piper motuoense, a new species of Piperaceae from Xizang, China
Piper motuoense X.W.Qin, F.Su & C.Y.Hao, a new species of Piperaceae from Xizang, China, is described and illustrated in this paper. The new species resembles P. yinkiangense and P. anisotis, but it can be readily distinguished from the compared species by several characteristics. Gonophyll leaves are chartaceous and the leaf secondary vein count is 7–9, with the outermost pair being very weak when there are nine veins. Additionally, the apical pair arises 2–4 cm above the base and the leaf base is asymmetrical, with bilateral petioles that cling and heal together. Pistillate floral bracts are sessile, with 3, 4 or 5 stigmas. The description of the new species includes photographs, detailed descriptions, notes on etymology, distribution and habitat, as well as comparisons with morphologically similar species.
["Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

Hydrangea xinfeniae (Hydrangeaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Hydrangea xinfeniae W.B.Ju & J.Ru, a new species of Hydrangeaceae from Sichuan Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species belongs to Hydrangea sect. Dichroa (Lour.) Y.De Smet & Samain, with its distinctive characteristic being the nearly superior ovary. It shares morphological similarities with H. yaoshanensis (Y.C.Wu) Y.De Smet & C.Granados, but can be distinguished by its hirsute trichomes densely covered on the branchlets, leaves, peduncles and pedicels, broadly elliptic to rectangular-elliptic leaf blade with nearly rounded base, coarse teeth leaf margins, 3–4 pairs of lateral veins, corymbose cyme with few and loose branches, lanceolate bract, the calyx tube and lobes margin with sparsely hirsute trichomes, adaxially glabrous and abaxially sparsely hirsute petal, outer whorl filaments are linear, inner ones are awl-shaped, glabrous styles, and the nearly superior ovary. H. xinfeniae sp. nov. currently known from only three relatively small populations of the type locality, and its conservation status is assessed as Data Deficient (DD).
["Hydrangea sect. Dichroa"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Synthesis and Biological Activity", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics"]

Taxonomic revision of the native Magnolia (Magnoliaceae) species of Brazil
The genus Magnolia (Magnoliaceae) has a wide and disjunct geographic distribution ranging from Eastern and South Asia to Malaysia, extending across the Neartics and reaching into the Neotropics. Regarding its infrageneric classification, the genus is divided into three subgenera: Yulania, Gynopodium and Magnolia, the latter including the section Talauma in which the native Brazilian taxa are classified. The species of Magnolia sect. Talauma can be recognized by two parallel longitudinal scars on the petiole formed by the shedding of the stipules, in addition to a woody syncarp that breaks into irregular plates at dehiscence. Currently, in Brazil, species recognition is not clear on national platforms that are widely used by the Brazilian botanical community (e.g. Flora do Brasil), with only two native Magnolia species being accepted: M. amazonica and M. ovata. The lack of knowledge about the species and their respective characteristics has resulted in many identification errors in Brazilian herbaria, which contributes to the lack of knowledge about their current conservation status. We conducted a complete taxonomic revision based on extensive fieldwork, a herbarium survey, along with literature study. Based on this, we propose to recognize three previously described species, supporting the acceptance of five native Magnolias occurring in Brazil, namely: M. amazonica, M. brasiliensis, M. irwiniana, M. ovata and M. sellowiana. However, we follow the Flora do Brasil in maintaining M. paranaensis as a synonym of M. ovata. Additionally, we designate a lectotype for M. sellowiana. We present morphological descriptions and the geographic distribution for each species, in addition to an identification key to all of these plus the two introduced ornamental species from Asia and North America, illustrations, photographs, ecological data, updated conservation status and taxonomic notes.
["Brazilian Flora"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae", "Phytochemistry and Bioactive Compounds"]

Melanoseris penghuana (Lactucinae, Cichorieae, Asteraceae), a new species from North-central Yunnan, China
In this paper, we describe a new species, Melanoseris penghuana, from Mt. Jiaozi Xueshan located in North-central Yunnan, China. Despite its morphological similarities to M. likiangensis, M. penghuana exhibits distinct differences in leaf texture, shape of terminal lobes, indumentum of leaves, peduncles, and involucres, as well as the length of the achenes. Additionally, the conservation status of this species is classified as Vulnerable through data analysis from two field surveys.
["Melanoseris likiangensis"]

Molecular and morphological evidence support a new species of Rosaceae Prunus subg. Cerasus from Wuyishan National Park, southeast China
Prunus tongmuensis, a new species of cherry blossom, is described and illustrated from Wuyishan National Park, southeast China. This species is characterized by its tubular to nearly bottle-shaped receptacles and dark purple drupes. It can be distinguished from other wild cherry trees by its flowers and leaves, reddish brown young leaves, presence of 1–2 glands at the base of leaves, petioles densely covered with yellowish brown villi, longer pedicels (0.6–2.5 cm), villous pistil, and dark purple drupes. In the present study, we conducted a comprehensive morphological study based on specimens of the new species and its morphologically close species, field observations, and examination of pollen morphology. In addition, our phylogenetic analysis based on the complete plastid genome sequences further confirms the status of the new species and indicates that it is closely related to Prunus clarofolia, however, it notably differs in leaf shape, size, petiole villus color, gland location, timing of flower and leaf openings, and reflexed or spread sepals, as well as drupe color.
["molecular phylogeny"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Lysimachia danxiashanensis, a new species of Primulaceae from Guangdong, China
Lysimachia danxiashanensis, a new Primulaceae species, endemic to the Danxia landscape in Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is morphologically similar to L. pseudohenryi, L. phyllocephala, L. congestiflora and L. kwangtungensis, but it differs from the similar species by its purplish-red plants, petiole without wings, calyx with orange glandular and the corolla margin serrated on upper half with orange-red glandular punctates. This new species belongs to Lysimachia subgen. Lysimachia sect. Nummularia. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that L. danxiashanensis is a distinct clade, based on the combined data of ITS and rbcL sequences. The conservation status of the new species was evaluated as Endangered (EN) according to IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Danxia landscape"]

Camellia zijinica (Theaceae), a new species endemic to Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China
A new species of the genus Camellia (Theaceae), Camellia zijinica, discovered in the Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China, is characterized and illustrated. Phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast genomes suggested its affinity with C. drupifera, C. oleifera and C. fluviatilis, however, it morphologically differs from all of the latter by leaf shape and size. Phonologically, it most closely resembles C. microphylla, but can be distinguished from the latter by its young branchlets glabrous (vs. densely pubescent), fewer bracteoles and sepals, diverse leaf shape, midvein raised slightly with sparsely pubescent or glabrous (vs. prominently with densely pubescent) and leaf adaxially matt (vs. vernicose) when dried. By morphological and molecular analyses, Camellia zijinica represented a distinct new species of C. sect. Paracamellia.
["Camellia"]

Taxonomic novelties in Haplopappus (Asteraceae, Astereae) from Chile
Two new species of Haplopappus (Asteraceae) from central Chile are described in this article. Haplopappus colliguayensis sp. nov. is restricted to La Chapa hill, Colliguay, Valparaíso Region, and is most similar to H. undulatus but differs from the latter in its stem indumentum, leaf shape and margin, and synflorescence arrangement. Haplopappus teillieri sp. nov. has been recorded from four high-Andean localities in the Choapa, Petorca, Rocín and Aconcagua river basins, and is most similar to H. punctatus but differs from the latter in its leaf length and margin, number of peduncles per twig, width of outer phyllaries, number of ray florets per capitulum, and achene dimensions. Additionally, we propose the reinstatement of H. kingii in agreement with an exhaustive revision of type material and protologues, as well as the study of herbarium specimens. Haplopappus kingii is restricted to mountainous areas in the southern portion of the Atacama Region, and resembles H. parvifolius and H. retinervius but differs from both by its leaf margin and apex, besides additional differences from each. We provide morphological descriptions, field images, distributional maps, conservation assessments, and taxonomic notes for the three species treated, as well as illustrations for the novel taxa.
["Central Chile"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

A new species of Veronica (Plantaginaceae) from Western Iran
A new species, Veronica kurdistanica (Plantaginaceae), is described and illustrated. It grows on limestone cliffs in mountainous alpine areas of western Iran (Kurdistan province). The new species belongs to the species group of V. kurdica and is considered to be closely related to V. daranica, V. khorassanica and V. kurdica, with which the new species is compared. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of nrDNA (ITS) region confirms this relationship. Veronica kurdistanica is distinguished from the mentioned species by its glandular indumentum, length and shape of leaves and bracts, number of flowers per raceme, length and width of calyx and corolla, and size of capsules and seeds.
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Isodon xiaoluzhiensis (Lamiaceae, Nepetoideae), a new species from Yunnan, southwest China
Isodon xiaoluzhiensis, a new species of the tribe Ocimeae in family Lamiaceae, is described and illustrated. The new species is known only from the type locality, Xiaoluzhi village in Luzhijang dry-hot valley of Yimen County, central Yunnan, southwest China. It is characterized by having a procumbent habit, gracile stems and branches, relatively small leaves and flowers, and the phenology of flowering in winter. The morphological comparisons with its putative closest relatives (I. adenanthus and I. hsiwenii) are also presented.

﻿A new freshwater species of Pinnularia (Bacillariophyta) from Hunan Province, China
This study describes a new species of Pinnularia, P. hupingensis sp. nov., on the basis of light and scanning electron microscope images. Pinnularia hupingensis sp. nov. is characterised by its linear valve outline, extremely divergent striae, and very large hexagonal central area occupying ca. 1/5–1/8 of the valve length. The primary and secondary sides of the valve and the internal proximal raphe fissures are discussed. The new species is compared to similar taxa of the genus Pinnularia.
["Central area"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Taxonomic dissection based on molecular evidence of the Eriosyce curvispina complex (Cactaceae): identifying nine endemic species from Central Chile
Chile’s distinctive flora, geographical isolation, and complex topography collectively contribute to a notable endemic species diversity, particularly within central regions identified as critical areas for biodiversity conservation. The cactus genus Eriosyce, as currently circumscribed, encompasses seven sections, with Eriosyce sect. Horridocatus presenting a notably complex species group. This study investigates the E. curvispina complex, a member of the Notocacteae tribe common in central Chile, by incorporating new populations and examining phylogenetic relationships using four plastid and one nuclear molecular marker. The phylogenetic analysis of sampled individuals identified nine independent lineages, each warranting recognition at the species rank. Despite minimal morphological differences among taxa, morphological characters were utilized to support and stabilize the DNA-based phylogenetic hypothesis. The results highlight the high taxonomic diversity in these cactus lineages and have implications for the classification of the E. curvispina complex, including new combinations and proposals of conservation status.
["Cactaceae"]
["Botanical Research and Applications", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Hedysarum qilianshanense sp. nov. (Fabaceae, Hedysareae), a new species from the Qilianshan Mountains in Gansu, China
Hedysarum qilianshanense sp. nov. (Fabaceae, Hedysareae) is described and illustrated from the Qilianshan Mountains in Gansu, China. This new species is similar to H. przewalskii, but can be distinguished by its corolla being light purple to purple, standard 15–19 mm long, wings 14–16 mm long, keels 16–19 mm long, and the ovary and legume being glabrous. The new species can be easily distinguished from H. neglectum Ledeb. by its bract being shorter than the pedicel, and the ovary and legume being glabrous. Phylogenetic tree based on the nuclear ITS and ETS sequences shows that H. qilianshanense is sister to H. przewalskii, while the tree based on the plastid psbA-trnH, trnC-petN, trnL-F, trnS-G and petN-psbM sequences shows H. qilianshanense as sister to a clade consisting of H. hedysaroides, H. inundatum, H. americanum and H. neglectum. The new species is a diploid with the chromosome number 2n = 14. Based on morphological, phylogenetic and karyotypic evidence, the new species may originate from an ancient homoploid hybrid speciation event.
["Karyotype"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

﻿Cyrtandra obliquifolia (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands
Cyrtandra obliquifolia K.R. Wood & W.L. Wagner (Gesneriaceae), a new shrub species known only from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated with notes on its distribution, ecology, and conservation status. The new species is morphologically most similar to Cyrtandra wawrae C.B. Clarke but differs by its unique combination of oblique, non-peltate, auriculate leaf bases, more deeply divided calyx lobes, inflorescence with fewer flowers and lacking profusely umbellate cymes. Cyrtandra obliquifolia is known from only two localities which have undergone severe habitat degradation from landslides and invasive plants and animals and is determined to be Critically Endangered (CR) when evaluated under IUCN criteria.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

﻿Aletris guangxiensis (Nartheciaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Aletris guangxiensis Y. Nong & Y. F. Huang (Nartheciaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is most similar to A. scopulorum, but it can be easily distinguished by its sparsely glandular, 5–18 cm long scape, glandular inflorescence axis, distinctly pedicellate flowers, sparsely glandular, 5–10 mm long pedicel, bract borne at base of pedicel, glabrous perianth divided to the base, strongly recurved or revolute perianth lobes and turbinate, obovoid to oblong-obovoid capsule. An identification key for 24 species and 1 hybrid of Aletris is also provided.

﻿From morphology to molecules: A comprehensive study of a novel Derris species (Fabaceae) with a rare flowering habit and reddish leaflet midribs, discovered in Peninsular Thailand
Derris rubricosta Boonprajan & Sirich., sp. nov., a new species of the genus Derris Lour. (Fabaceae) was discovered in Peninsular Thailand. The overall morphology demonstrates that the species most resembles D. pubipetala. Nevertheless, the species has several autapomorphies differentiating it from other Derris species, e.g., the presence of reddish midribs of the mature leaflets, sparsely hairy stamen filaments, prominent hairs at the base of the anthers, and presence of glandular trichomes along the leaflet midrib. Additionally, HPLC fingerprints of this species showed a distinction from D. pubipetala by the absence of phytochemical compound peaks after 13 min. Retention Time (RT). Results from molecular phylogenetic analyses also strongly supported the taxonomic status as a new species.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis"]

﻿Hypericum liboense (Hypericaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Hypericum liboense M.T.An & T.R.Wu, sp. nov. (Hypericaceae) is a newly described species found in the Maolan National Nature Reserve of Guizhou Province, where it grows in rocky habitats without soil on karst mountain tops. In this study, key morphological characters were compared between the new species and the other known Hypericum species of Hypericaceae. DNA sequences were extracted from the leaves of the new species, with nuclear gene sequences (ITS) generated to reconstruct phylogenetic trees and describe its phylogenetic position in relation to other species of Hypericum. Our results show that the proposed new species has the typical characteristics of the genus Hypericum in morphology being similar to Hypericum monogynum, but differing in its sessile and semi-clasped leaves, long elliptical to long circular leaf blades, thickly papery to thinly leathery, with entire and wavy leaf margins. The abaxial side of the leaves is covered with white powder, giving them a grey-white appearance. The main lateral veins of the leaves are 8–15-paired, and the midvein on both sides is convex. The main lateral veins and midvein branch are conspicuous, with tertiary venation forming a network on the leaf surface and appearing prominently sunken. The inflorescences are 1–3-flowered, with a large calyx and conspicuous veins. The molecular phylogenetic analysis (PP = 1.00) provided substantial evidence for the proposition of H. liboense as a new species within Hypericum. Morphological and molecular evidence is presented, corroborating the proposition of the new species, including a comprehensive account of the distinctive morphological attributes of H. liboense, along with its key distinguishing features from similar species.
["Molecular evidence"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿A new species of genus Crenotia (Bacillariophyta) from Tibet, China
During the investigation of the freshwater diatoms from Tibet, a monoraphid species was observed from a hot spring near Anduo County, located on a plateau in the central portion of Tibet. This species shares the diagnostic features of Crenotia, such as the valve bent along the transapical axis, striae uniseriate to biseriate from centre to the apices and areolae with special structures located at the end of each stria. We compared the morphological characters of this new species with the others in this genus and show it to be new; it is named Crenotia tibetia sp. nov. This species has small valves with slightly protracted ends with nearly capitate apices, lanceolate axial area, central area unilaterally expanded to the margin, striae uniseriate to biseriate, but, in some valves, the striae are only uniseriate. Areolae are round small to irregular in shape and, at the end of each stria, there is a horseshoe-shaped areola present. Observations of developing valves show all the striae begin biseriate, then they become covered by silica to form uniseriate striae. Comparisons are made amongst the species in this genus and with genera assigned to the Achnanthidiaceae.
["Freshwater diatoms"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

﻿Description of five new Luticola D.G.Mann (Bacillariophyta, Diadesmidaceae) species from Indonesia with comments on the morphological boundaries of the genus
During a survey of the Indonesian diatoms, five Luticola D.G.Mann taxa that could not be identified, based on the available literature were discovered. Based on light microscopy, scanning electron microscope observations and comparisons with similar taxa, all of them are described as new species. All taxa were found on mosses growing on tree trunks and concrete on the islands of Banda Besar and Seram and from spring on Java Island. Luticola insularis sp. nov. is most similar to L. aequatorialis and L. simplex, but it can easily be distinguished from both taxa, based on the lower striae density, the narrower valves and the well-developed silica ridges on the valve face/mantle junction. Luticola bandanensis sp. nov. resembles L. frequentissima, but they can be easily distinguished, based on their valve widths and the direction of the grooves located on the distal and proximal raphe endings. Luticola elliptica sp. nov. is most similar to L. sparsipunctata, L. tenuis and L. bryophila. Amongst all the species compared, L. elliptica sp. nov. is the only one with a highly asymmetrical central area, with the isolated pore located on the wider side. Luticola malukuana sp. nov. shares similarities with L. dismutica and L. areolata, but it has a notably higher stria density. From L. areolata, it can also be separated by the morphology of striae and the lack of ghost areolae in the central area. Luticola poliporea sp. nov. is unique in the whole genus due to the presence of multiple isolated pores.
["Diatoms"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Vaccinium usneoides (Ericaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Vaccinium usneoides (Ericaceae), a new species from Fugong County of Yunnan Province, China is described and illustrated. This new species belongs to Vaccinium sect. Calcicolus and is most similar to V. brachyandrum, but differs in its branches hanging down, much smaller leaf blades, shorter inflorescences and pedicels, non-glandular tomentellate or densely pubescent inflorescence rachis and pedicels, densely white-pubescent hypanthium and pilose filaments.
["Gaoligong Mountain"]

﻿Distribution and morphology of the diatom genus Olifantiella Riaux-Gobin & Compère in Indonesian and Australian waters, including the description of O. gondwanensis sp. nov.
Samples from coastal tropical waters of Central Sulawesi, Bangka Island and Bawean Island in Indonesia and from the Great Barrier Reef at Fitzroy Island in Queensland, Australia were analysed for species composition of diatom assemblages with a focus on Olifantiella. Whereas samples from Fitzroy Island littoral in Australia retrieved only one species of Olifantiella, in Poso Bay, Indonesia, we observed at least six species. All established taxa were documented with light (LM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) and principal component analysis (PCA) analysis was used to compare the species, based on the basic valve parameters of length, width, length to width ratio and striae density. A new species of the genus Olifantiella, O. gondwanensis is described from Australia. In addition, we showed the distinct nature of O. pilosella var. rhizophorae permitting to species status. Particular attention is placed on girdle bands in this genus.
["Bacillariophyta"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿The first epiphytic species of Valeriana in the world: Valeriana rudychazaroi (Caprifoliaceae)
The currently known species of Valeriana are herbs, shrubs, small trees and vines. After 20 years without new species of Valeriana in Mexico, here is described and illustrated the first epiphytic species in the genus. The species was found growing on Quercus glabrescens trees of the cloud forests from central Veracruz in eastern Mexico. It is known and described from very few specimens in the type locality. The most morphologically similar Mexican species are the vines V. naidae and V. subincisa, it was compared. Conservation assessment classifies this species under the Critically Endangered CR B1+B2ab(ii,v) category of the IUCN Red List Criteria.
["Cloud forest"]

﻿Primula lizipingensis (Primulaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
A new species, Primula lizipingensis W.B.Ju, L.Y.He & X.F.Gao, found in Shimian County, Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to P. rhodochroa and P. socialis, but can be distinguished from them in having shorter plants covering with white farinose, leaf margin sharply dentate above the middle, the leaf blade becomes papery after drying, scapes obsolete, the bract linear-lanceolate to subulate, solitary at the base of the pedicel, and the white hairs present inside the corolla tube.
["Aleuritia"]

﻿Molecular and morphological evidence for a new species of Stachys (Lamiaceae) from Hunan, China
Stachys yingzuijieensis, a new species from western Hunan, China, is described and illustrated. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on three nuclear ribosomal DNA loci (ETS, ITS and 5S-NTS) recovered S. yingzuijieensis within the Stachys clade and as a sister group of S. arrecta. The two species can be easily distinguished by the morphology of lamina, corolla and nutlet. A key to all species of Stachydeae from China is also provided.
["Eurystachys clade"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A new species of Casearia Jacq. (Salicaceae) from Central Panama and insights into its phylogenetic position within the genus
We describe here a new species of Casearia from Panama based on both morphological and molecular data. Casearia isthmica sp. nov. is restricted to the mid-elevation cloud forests of Central Panama and presents morphological similarities with two more widespread species, C. sanchezii from high elevation areas of El Salvador and Mexico and C. tremula from the Caribbean, Central America, and Northern South America. Casearia isthmica differs in presenting pedunculated and congested inflorescences with up to 20 flowers, as well as flowers with 12 stamens and a pubescent style. Phylogenetic analysis based on selected plastid (petD, trnK-matK, rpl16 and rps4-trnLF) and nuclear (GBSSI and ITS) markers shows that the new species belongs to subclade B3 of Casearia, a lineage that encompasses species from Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean. Results of the morphological and molecular analysis were congruent and allowed a broader understanding of this new taxon, especially regarding its relationships to other Casearia.
["Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

﻿An integrative approach to species delimitation sinks three Chinese limestone karst Elatostema (Urticaceae) species
Elatostema is recognized as a taxonomically difficult group due to the reduced nature of the tiny flowers and inflorescences, also the large number of species (ca 650 to 700). Different opinions on morphological species delimitation have resulted in instability, which is problematic in such a speciose group. In this paper, the taxonomic status of three putative species, E. robustipes, E. scaposum, E. conduplicatum and their hypothetical closest relatives, was revised using morphological and molecular observations. Morphological comparison suggested high similarity between E. robustipes & E. retrohirtum, E. scaposum & E. oblongifolium, E. conduplicatum & E. coriaceifolium, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses of four universal DNA barcodes (ITS, trnH-psbA, matK and rbcL) suggested that each species pair represents a single evolutionary lineage. Taking these two findings together, we propose E. robustipes to be a synonym of E. retrohirtum, E. scaposum a synonym of E. oblongifolium, and E. conduplicatum a synonym of E. coriaceifolium. Our results recover the number, shape and size of the bracts and bracteoles to be relatively stable characters, and the disposition of the male inflorescences on modified stems to be an unstable character, unsuitable for species delimitation in Elatostema.

﻿Rhynchospora mesoatlantica (Cyperaceae), an imperiled new species of beaksedge from eastern U.S.A.
Rhynchospora mesoatlantica sp. nov. (Cyperaceae) is described, illustrated, and compared with morphologically similar species. Rhynchospora mesoatlantica is known only from southern Delaware, southeastern Maryland, and southern New Jersey, all within the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S.A. It inhabits sunny, wet margins of natural, shallow, nutrient-poor, seasonal ponds of the Coastal Plain. Narrow leaf blades; fruits obpyriform in outline; faces of mature fruits possessing a central, pale, well-demarcated disk; and fruit tubercle margins denticulate for most of their lengths indicate R. mesoatlantica is most similar to R. filifolia and R. harperi. Rhynchospora mesoatlantica is unique in its fruit dimensions, scales intermediate in length between R. filifolia and R. harperi, and relatively long fruit stipe. The NatureServe rank of Critically Imperiled and the IUCN rank of Endangered appear warranted for R. mesoatlantica because only six populations are known to be extant, most quite small and isolated; all populations occur within a small geographic area; populations have declined; and serious threats confront the survival of the species.
["Mid-Atlantic"]
["Data Management and Algorithms", "Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithms Research", "Optimization and Search Problems"]

﻿Eugenia sarahchazaroi (Myrtaceae, Myrteae), a new species from the cloud forest of Mexico
Following the description of Eugenia naraveana in 2016 from the cloud forest of the Cofre de Perote volcano, Mexico, the doubt about the existence of another unlocalized and sympatric species of Eugenia remained. After years of searching, the second endemic species of the Cofre de Perote volcano, Eugenia sarahchazaroi, is presented here. It belongs to the section Umbellatae, and is described, illustrated, and compared with E. naraveana and E. coetzalensis, recently described from Veracruz, the second state with the highest diversity of Eugenia in Mexico. The species is only known from the type locality and is classified in the Critically Endangered CR B1+B2(a,biii) category of the IUCN Red List conservation assessments.
["Cloud forest"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

﻿A new species of Cotoneaster (Rosaceae) from western Sichuan, China
Cotoneaster densiflorus, a new species of Rosaceae from western Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, we inferred that the new species belongs to Cotoneaster Ser. Salicifolii sensu Yü et al. (1974) in the Flora of China and Fryer and Hylmö (2009). This species is most similar to C. salicifolius, but differs in its leaf blade of ovate-lanceolate to obovate shape (vs. elliptic-oblong to ovate-lanceolate), smaller length-width ratio of 2.37 ± 0.31 (vs. 3.17 ± 0.32), slightly conduplicate (vs. not conduplicate), less lateral veins of 6–8 pairs (vs. 12–16 pairs), upper surface slightly rugose (vs. rugose), leaf margin plane (vs. revolute), lower surface densely grey tomentose (vs. grey tomentose, with bloom), greater corolla diameter of 7–9 mm (vs. 5–6 mm), styles 2 (vs. 2–3), pyrenes 2 (vs. 2–3), larger pollen grains P/E values of 2.05 ± 0.12 (vs. 1.19 ± 0.05) and leaf epidermis type W (vs. type I). Based on phylogenetic analysis of the whole chloroplast genome, C. densiflorus is sister to C. rhytidophyllus, but distantly related to C. salicifolius.
["Anatomical"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

﻿Melanoseris kangdingensis (Lactucinae, Cichorieae, Asteraceae), a new species reported from western Sichuan, China
Melanoseris kangdingensis, a new species native to western Sichuan, China, is firstly described and illustrated, and its conservation status is also assessed. It bears resemblance to M. macrantha and M. bracteata in terms of morphology; however, there are distinguishing characteristics in terms of their leaf structure, presence of bracts, hairiness of involucre, number of florets, and length of both stamen tube and achene’s beak.
["Melanoseris bracteata"]

﻿Gelidocalamus albozonatus (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new species from the southeast of Chongqing, China, and analysis of the morphological diversity in the core group of Gelidocalamus
Gelidocalamus albozonatus W. G. Zhang, S. R. Yi & Y. L. Li, a new species of Gelidocalamus, collected from Pengshui County of Chongqing City in China, was described and illustrated herein. In this study, key morphological characters were compared between the new species and other eight “gelido-” members of Gelidocalamus. By using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), its leaf epidermal characters were observed in comparison with those of another three Gelidocalamus representatives. Our results show that the new taxon has the typical characteristics of the genus Gelidocalamus, both macromorphologically and micromorphologically. Moreover, it was most similar to G. tessellatus, but differed by a ring of white tomenta below per node, culm sheath base with densely purple verrucous setae and foliage leaf blades mesophyll.

﻿Synotis jinpingensis (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a new species with white ray florets from southeastern Yunnan, China
Synotis jinpingensis (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a new species from Jinping county in southeastern Yunnan province, China, is described and illustrated. This species is distinguished by having white ray florets in the genus Synotis, in which only species with yellow ray florets have been hitherto known. In habit and leaf shape S. jinpingensis is most closely similar to S. duclouxii, a species occurring in southwestern Guizhou, southern Sichuan and northeastern Yunnan, China, but differs, in addition to the color of ray florets, by having fewer lateral veins of leaves, obviously longer bracts of calyculus, and larger phyllaries. The membership of the new species within Synotis is strongly corroborated by evidence from floral micromorphology and phylogenetic analyses based on ITS sequence data. Color photographs of living plants, a distribution map, and provisional IUCN status of S. jinpingensis are provided.
["Compositae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

﻿Lysimachia cavicola (Primulaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Lysimachia cavicola (Subgen. Idiophyton, Primulaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China, is here described and illustrated based on morphological data. Although it shares similarities with L. microcarpa, L. fooningensis, and L. capillipes, there are distinguishing characteristics that set it apart. These include erect stems either solitary or in clusters of 1 to 2, herbaceous, terete, and densely glandular hairy. The leaves are either ovate or elliptical lanceolate, with inconspicuously reticulate veins. The petiole measures 2–4 mm in length covered with minute glandular hairy. The corolla is deeply parted, measuring 6–8 mm in length, with narrowly elliptic or narrowly oblong lobes that are 1–2 mm wide. The capsule is globose, measuring 2–3 × 2–3 mm, and possesses a chalky, brittle texture, which splits into 5-valved segments. The calyx of the plant appears yellowish-white during fruiting. This newly discovered species is endemic to limestone areas in Fengshan County, Guangxi, China.

﻿First record of the genus Camptotheca (Nyssaceae) in Vietnam and the lectotypification of C. acuminata
As a primary source of anticancer camptothecin, Camptotheca (Nyssaceae) is an economically valuable genus and has long been recorded as endemic to China. Here, Camptotheca is reported as a new record to the flora of Vietnam with the discovery of a wild population of C. acuminata from Lai Chau Province of northern Vietnam. Based on the consultation of relevant literature and type specimens of C. acuminata, a lectotype of the species is designated. Photographic illustrations, morphological description and a distribution map of C. acuminata is provided, and a key to all known species of Nyssaceae in Vietnam is presented, too.
["Camptotheca"]

﻿Mazus motuoensis (Mazaceae), a new species from Xizang, China
Mazus motuoensis W.B.Ju, Bo Xu bis & X.F.Gao is a newly described species found in Xizang Autonomous Region, China. Morphologically, this species differs from all the other known Mazus species by having erect perennial herb form with a rhizome, presence of multicellular hairs, without basal leaves, opposite arrangement of stem leaves, and corolla lobes with erose-toothed margins. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using nuclear and cpDNA genes suggests that this new species occupies a basal position within Mazus. In conclusion, both morphological evidence and molecular phylogenetic analyses support that this species belongs to Mazus and represents an as-yet-unreported new species with distinct differences from other species within the genus.
["Mazus"]

﻿Gesneria tuberifera (Gesneriaceae), a new lithophytic species from the Sierra de Bahoruco, Barahona Peninsula of southern Hispaniola (Dominican Republic)
A narrowly endemic new species of Gesneria is described from the Sierra de Bahoruco in the Dominican Republic’s Barahona Peninsula of southern Hispaniola. Gesneria tuberifera J.L.Clark & T.Clase, sp. nov. differs from all other congeners by the presence of a tuber and tubular red corollas with yellow lobes. Images and a discussion are provided to summarize the presence of tubers in other Gesneriaceae and differentiate Gesneria tuberifera from congeners that share a lithophytic habit. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status of Endangered (EN) is assessed for G. tuberifera.

﻿Bomarea pastazensis (Alstroemeriaceae), an exceptionally small new species from the eastern Andean slopes of Ecuador
Recent field research on the eastern slopes of the Andes resulted in the discovery of a new species of Bomarea from the Cerro Candelaria Reserve in the Tungurahua province of Ecuador. Bomarea pastazensis is the second smallest species in the genus and differs from the smallest by the presence of glutinous trichomes on the ovary, glabrous sepals, and greenish-yellow petals with purple spots. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned as Vulnerable (VU).
["Alstroemeriaceae"]

﻿Paraboea zunyiensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from north Guizhou, China
A new lithophytic species, Paraboea zunyiensis T.Deng, F.Wen & R.B.Zhang (Gesneriaceae), inhabiting Karst rocks in northern Guizhou, China, is introduced and depicted in this study. It bears a resemblance to P. crassifolia (Hemsl.) B.L. Burtt, yet is distinguishable by its shorter filaments and staminodes, triangular ovate calyx segments, and ovaries surpassing the styles in length. Moreover, the phylogenetic tree constructed from nuclear DNA (ITS) and plastid DNA (trnL-F) data firmly support the differentiation of this novel species from P. crassifolia.
["Flora of Guizhou"]

﻿Preliminary checklist of the genus Festuca L. (Loliinae, Pooideae, Poaceae) in the Altai Mountains with outlines for further studies
Here we present an updated checklist of the genus Festuca in the Altai Mountains (AM). The study was carried out on the abundant herbarium material and considered the latest published phylogenetic analyses. Festuca was revised within the scope of the fine-leaved group (clade) with two sections, sect. Aulaxyper and sect. Festuca. Two species, namely F. richardsonii and F. lenensis, were previously misidentified and are not present in the AM. Festuca brevissima is a new record for the Russian part of the AM and for the flora of Mongolia. In total, our revision shows that 17 species of fine-leaved fescues are present in the area of AM. In this paper, we provide a key to species identification, as well as illustrations of plants, habits, leaves, spikelets, and glumes. Information on nomenclature types, synonymy, flowering period, chromosome numbers, habitats, and general distribution along with distribution maps of the particular species within the AM are included.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Rangeland Management and Livestock Ecology", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Taxonomic revision of Camellia langbianensis (Theaceae) with four new synonyms
Based on analysis of morphologically diagnostic characters, Camellia langbianensis, a yellow camellia native to southern Vietnam, is taxonomically revised to include four new heterotypic synonyms: C. decora, C. dongnaiensis, C. oconoriana and C. tadungensis. Camellia vidalii is retained in the synonymy of C. langbianensis. Updated description and distribution map for C. langbianensis are provided.
["Dankia"]

﻿Walsura guangxiensis (Meliaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Walsura guangxiensis (Meliaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China, is here described and illustrated. The new species is easily distinguishable from the other two Chinese members of the genus by its petals being pale yellow, filaments being connate into tubes above the middle, the berry being oval and glabrous. An identification key of Walsura for 17 species is also provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemical compounds biological activities"]

﻿A new species of Mollinedia (Monimiaceae, Laurales) from the Quadrilátero Ferrífero, Brazil
Monimiaceae comprises approximately 26 genera and 250 species, with a pantropical distribution, predominantly occurring in humid forests. In Brazil, it is represented by five genera and 47 species, most of which are found in the Atlantic Forest, particularly in dense ombrophilous forest. Nevertheless, studies on this family in other biomes and vegetation types in Brazil are still scarce. The Quadrilátero Ferrífero (QF), a region located in the state of Minas Gerais, exhibits high plant species richness and endemism. During collections and analysis of herbarium materials from this region, some specimens of Mollinedia caught our attention due to a combination of characteristics that do not match those of any described species within the genus. For this reason, we describe this new taxon and assess its risk of extinction. Additionally, we review the occurrences of Monimiaceae in the QF and provide maps of its geographical distribution. With the description of this new species, the region now hosts eight species of Monimiaceae, two from the genus Macropeplus and six from Mollinedia. The new species is the first endemic species of the Monimiaceae family to be described in the QF. Concerning the extinction risk assessment, the new species was assessed as critically endangered.
["Flora of Brazil"]

﻿Ardisia krauensis, a new species of Primulaceae (Myrsinoideae) from Peninsular Malaysia
Ardisia krauensis, a new species of Primulaceae from Peninsular Malaysia, is described and illustrated. The new species is assignable into subgenus (§) Pyrgus on account of specialised lateral reproductive branches bearing a terminal inflorescence subtended by foliose bracts. Morphologically, the new species mostly resembles Ardisia rigida in having elliptic leaves. However, the new species can be distinguished by the combination of its lateral veins number, the inflorescence branching pattern, the rachis and flower colour, and the stigma shape. Ardisia krauensis is found in an entirely protected habitat, thus, it is assessed as Least Concern (LC).
["Ardisia rigida"]

﻿Lithocarpus tapanuliensis (Fagaceae), a new stone oak from northern Sumatra and its role as an important resource for critically endangered orangutans
A new species of stone oak, Lithocarpus tapanuliensis Harapan, W.H.Tan, Nurainas & Strijk from South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, Indonesia is described. We provide colour photographs, a distribution map and a new IUCN conservation status assessment for inclusion on the global Red List. The unique cupule morphology, particularly the shape, placement and distinctness of the cupule protuberances, are distinctive from other Lithocarpus species in the region. Ecological interactions (e.g. consumption and nesting) with Tapanuli orangutans were recorded in the field.
["Batang Toru"]

﻿Karyotype and genome size variation in Delphinium subg. Anthriscifolium (Ranunculaceae)
Five taxa of Delphinium subg. Anthriscifolium have been karyologically studied through chromosome counting, chromosomal measurement, and karyotype symmetry. Each taxon that we investigated has a basic chromosome number of x = 8, D. anthriscifolium var. savatieri, D. anthriscifolium var. majus, D. ecalcaratum, and D. callichromum were diploid with 2n = 16, while D. anthriscifolium var. anthriscifolium was tetraploid with 2n = 32. Monoploid chromosome sets of the investigated diploid taxa contained 1 metacentric chromosome, 3 submetacentric chromosomes, and 4 subtelocentric chromosomes. Higher interchromosomal asymmetry (CVCL) was present in D. ecalcaratum and D. callichromum than in other taxa. The highest levels of intrachromosomal asymmetry (MCA) and heterogeneity in centromere position (CVCI) were found in D. anthriscifolium var. majus. Diploid and tetraploid genome sizes varied by 3.02–3.92 pg and 6.04–6.60 pg, respectively. Karyotype and genome size of D. anthriscifolium var. savatieri, D. anthriscifolium var. majus, D. callichromum, and D. ecalcaratum were reported for the first time. Finally, based on cytological and morphological data, the classification of Delphinium anthriscifolium was revised.
["Columbines"]
["Plant-based Medicinal Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

﻿Primula xilingensis (Primulaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
A new species, Primula xilingensis K.Huang & Z.X.Fu, sp. nov. (Primulaceae), is described and illustrated. In gross morphology, it is clearly allied to section Minutissimae on account of having stolons, being glabrous, leaf rosette less than or equal to corolla, flower solitary and bract not swollen at base. The new species is easily distinguished by the combination of scape densely yellow farinose, leaf apex acute, rarely broadly obtuse, corolla pale purplish blue and style 3.0–6.0 mm above base of corolla tube, stamens reaching the corolla tube mouth in thrum flower. In addition, the distribution map, morphological comparison of related species and conservation status of the new species are also provided.

﻿Lagerstroemia stenophylla (Lythraceae), a new species from China
Lagerstroemia stenophylla, a new species from southeastern Shaanxi Province and northwestern Hubei Province of China is described. Morphologically, L. stenophylla resembles L. subcostata, but it differs in having 4-angular, subalate branchlets, elliptic-lanceolate, or narrowly elliptic leaves, and relatively larger flowers.

﻿Generic concepts and species diversity within the Gynoxyoid clade (Senecioneae, Compositae)
The Gynoxyoid clade of the Senecioneae (Asteraceae) until now included the five genera Aequatorium, Gynoxys, Nordenstamia, Paracalia and Paragynoxys as diagnosed using selected morphological characters. In their pre-phylogenetic circumscription, the genera Aequatorium and Paragynoxys were considered to inhabit the northern Andes in contrast to Nordenstamia and Paracalia that occur in the central Andes. The most species-rich genus, Gynoxys, was believed to be distributed throughout the Andes. We use a recently established plastid phylogenomic framework that rendered Gynoxys paraphyletic to further evaluate the delimitation of genera in the Gynoxyoid clade. We examine the morphological variation of all members of the Gynoxyoid to identify characters potentially informative at genus level. This results in a matrix of eleven, mostly multistate characters, including those originally used to diagnose these genera. The ancestral character state inference displays a high level of homoplasy, but nevertheless supports the recognition of four genera. Aequatorium is characterised by white radiate capitula. Paracalia and Paragynoxys share white flowers and floral characteristics, such as flower opening and length of disc flowers lobes, as plesiomorphic states, but differ in habit (scandent shrubs vs. trees). Paracalia also retained white flowers, but its two species are characterised by the absence of outer phyllaries. The genera Gynoxys and Nordenstamia comprise species with yellow capitula which appear to be a derived feature in the Gynoxyoids. The genus Nordenstamia, with eight species, is synonymised under Gynoxys since molecular evidence shows its species nested within various parts of the Gynoxys subclade and the morphological variation of Nordenstamia falls well within that of Gynoxys. With the goal to assign all species to four genera (Aequatorium, Gynoxys, Paracalia and Paragynoxys), we assess the states for the eleven characters for all members of the Gynoxyoids and generate new ETS and ITS sequences for 171 specimens belonging to 49 species to further support their generic placement. We provide a taxonomic treatment for the four genera recognised here including amended diagnoses and morphological descriptions. Furthermore, a species-level taxonomic backbone is elaborated for all genera using electronic tools that list 158 currently accepted names and synonyms (209 names in total) with the respective protologue and type information, as well as notes on the current understanding of species limits. Eleven names are newly synonymised, two are lectotypified and eight are newly transferred to other genera.
["Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

﻿Phylogenomic inference of the African tribe Monodoreae (Annonaceae) and taxonomic revision of Dennettia, Uvariodendron and Uvariopsis
Monodoreae (Annonaceae) is a tribe composed of 11 genera and 90 species restricted to the tropical African rain forests. All the genera are taxonomically well circumscribed except the species rich genera Uvariodendron and Uvariopsis which lack a recent taxonomic revision. Here, we used a robust phylogenomic approach, including all the 90 currently accepted species, with several specimens per species, and based on more than 300 Annonaceae-specific nuclear genes, to infer the phylogenetic tree of the Monodoreae and test the limits between the genera and species. We recover all the genera as monophyletic, except the genus Uvariopsis for which the species Uvariopsis tripetala falls outside this clade. We thus reinstate the monotypic genus Dennettia for its single species Dennettia tripetala. We also erect a new tribe, Ophrypetaleae trib. nov., to accommodate the genera Ophrypetalum and Sanrafaelia, as we recover them excluded from the Monodoreae tribe with good support. Below the genus level, the genera Isolona, Monodora, Uvariastrum, Uvariodendron and Uvariopsis show weakly supported nodes and phylogenetic conflicts, suggesting that population level processes of evolution might occur in these clades. Our results also support, at the molecular level, the description of several new species of Uvariodendron and Uvariopsis, as well as several new synonymies. Finally, we present a taxonomic revision of the genera Dennettia, Uvariodendron and Uvariopsis, which contain one, 18 and 17 species respectively. We provide a key to the 11 genera of the Monodoraeae and describe four new species to science: Uvariodendron kimbozaense Dagallier & Couvreur, sp. nov., Uvariodendron mossambicense Robson ex Dagallier & Couvreur, sp. nov., Uvariodendron pilosicarpum Dagallier & Couvreur, sp. nov. and Uvariopsis oligocarpa Dagallier & Couvreur, sp. nov., and provide provisional descriptions of three putatively new species. We also present lectotypifications and nomenclatural changes implying synonymies and new combinations (Uvariodendron citriodorum (Le Thomas) Dagallier & Couvreur, comb. et stat. nov., Uvariodendron fuscum var. magnificum (Verdc.) Dagallier & Couvreur, comb. et stat. nov., Uvariopsis congensis var. angustifolia Dagallier & Couvreur, var. nov., Uvariopsis guineensis var. globiflora (Keay) Dagallier & Couvreur, comb. et stat. nov., and Uvariopsis solheidii var. letestui (Pellegr.) Dagallier & Couvreur, comb. et stat. nov.).

﻿New species of Asclepias (Apocynaceae), Baphia (Leguminosae), Cochlospermum (Bixaceae) and Endostemon (Lamiaceae) from the Kalahari sands of Angola and NW Zambia, with one new combination in Vangueria (Rubiaceae)
Four new species are described from central and eastern Angola and adjacent NW Zambia. All occur in Kalahari sand savannas rich in endemic and more widely distributed geoxylic suffrutices. Despite being known from very few collections, the conservation status of one of these new species is assessed as Least Concern, as these grasslands are nutrient-poor, are in remote sparsely populated areas, and are not threatened with conversion to agriculture. The remaining three are treated as Data Deficient. In addition, one new combination is provided for Ancylanthos rubiginosus Desf. under Vangueria as V. rubiginosa (Desf.) Lantz is an illegitimate later homonym. We also make orthographic corrections to specific epithets commemorating Ilse von Nolde, a collector who made important collections from Quela in Malange in the 1930s.
["Ancylanthos"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

﻿A new species of Iochroma Benth. (Solanaceae) from the eastern Andes of Colombia
Iochroma orozcoae A.Orejuela & S.D.Sm., sp. nov. (Solanaceae) is described from the Andean forests of Cundinamarca in the eastern cordillera of Colombia. Iochroma orozcoae was first collected by the eminent Spanish priest and botanist José Celestino Mutis in the late part of the 18th century, but the specimens have lain unrecognised in herbaria for over 200 years. The species shares many features with its closest relative, Iochroma baumii S.D.Sm. & S.Leiva, but it differs from it in having small flowers with five corolla lobes and few inflorescences per branch, located near the shoot apex with 1 to 4 (–8) flowers, fruits that are greenish-yellow when ripe and its restricted geographic distribution. A description of I. orozcoae is provided, along with a detailed illustration, photographs of live plants, a comparison with closely-related species and a key to all Colombian species of Iochroma Benth. In closing, we emphasise the value of historical collections for the knowledge of biodiversity.

﻿Ardisia recurvipetala (Primulaceae-Myrsinoideae), a new species from northern Peninsular Malaysia
Recent fieldwork in Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia, resulted in the collection of an endemic new species of Ardisia, described here as Ardisia recurvipetala Julius, Siti-Munirah & Utteridge. The species is a member of subgenus (§) Crispardisia on account of its vascularised glands (bacterial nodules) on the leaf margin and the terminal inflorescence on a specialised lateral branch subtended by a normal leaf (rather than a reduced bract-like leaf). Ardisia recurvipetala is unique amongst all members of §Crispardisia by having leaf margins with both vascularised glands and pustule-like structures and can be further distinguished from other Peninsular Malaysian members of this subgenus by the lamina raised between the leaf venation giving a somewhat bullate appearance, unbranched inflorescences, brownish-red pedicels and recurved corolla lobes, each with a creamy-white apex and a small pink patch at the base. Ardisia recurvipetala is known only from a single location in Terengganu and its conservation status is assessed as Data Deficient (DD).
["Ericales"]

﻿Craspedostauros nazmii sp. nov., a new diatom species (Bacillariophyta) from the Turkish Coast of the Black Sea
Craspedostauros E.J. Cox is a diatom genus comprising 17 taxa reported from various regions of the world. While many species of Craspedostauros are epibiontic, the taxa have variable ecological preferences. In this study we formally describe Craspedostauros nazmii sp. nov., an epilithic species discovered along the Turkish Black Sea Coast, based on light and scanning electron microscopy. Craspedostauros nazmii sp. nov. is characterized by valves that are lanceolate to narrowly lanceolate, slightly constricted near the apices with uniseriate, parallel throughout the whole valve, transapical striae and and the presence of an apical silica flap. The areolae are distributed over the valve face and the mantle. The differences and similarities between C. nazmii sp. nov. and established species of Craspedostauros are discussed. Based on shape and morphometrics, the most similar species is Craspedostauros capensis, but it is easily distinguished from C. nazmii sp. nov. by its lack of an apical silica flap.
["Apical silica flap"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and environmental studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Mitreola quanruii (Loganiaceae), a new species from a karst region in Guangxi, China
Mitreola quanruii , a new species from Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated in this study. It is morphologically similar to M. liuyanii because of the terete stems, creeping and branched at the base, the leaves which are pilose on both surfaces and the bilobed capsules with two erect horns. The new species can be distinguished from M. liuyanii by its taller habit, up to 20–50 cm tall, its linear leaves, 4–18 × 0.3–1 cm with acuminate apex and 8–10 pairs of lateral veins, its narrowly triangular stipules, its linear bracts, ca. 1.0 cm long and glabrous and its glabrous calyx. Mitreola quanruii is temporarily assessed as data deficient (DD) according to IUCN. The habitat of Mitreola quanruii is extremely fragile. Therefore, this species deserves close attention and protection.

﻿Stauranthera floribunda, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Yunnan, China
Stauranthera floribunda F.Su, C.Y.Hao & K.Tan, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to S. grandifolia Benth. in the shape of corolla, stigma, leaves and the number of stamens. However, it can be readily distinguished from the compared species by its dense cymes, leaf indumentum, lack of a corolla spur, calyx colour and stamen shape. The description of the new species, photographs, detailed descriptions, notes on etymology, distribution and habitat, as well as comparisons with morphologically similar species, are provided.

﻿A new species of Hiptage (Malpighiaceae) from northwest Yunnan (China) based on molecular and morphological data
Hiptage stenopterum K.Tan & M.X.Ren, a new species of Hiptage collected from a deep valley close to the Nujiang Gorge, northwest of Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated based on molecular and morphological data. The new species was found isolated in an entrenched valley of the Laowo River, a tributary of the Nujiang River, at the northern edge of the distribution range of the genus. H. stenopterum shares some morphological similarities with the narrowly endemic H. incurvatum and H. lushuiensis. However, H. stenopterum is easily distinguished by its oblanceolate lateral wing of winged mericarp, 10 to 12 calyx glands, and branchlets densely rusty tomentose. The new species status is also supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear ribosome internal transcribed spacer (nrITS), which showed distinct systematic boundaries from the most morphologically similar species, H. incurvatum and their morphological relatives, H. lushuiensis.
["flora of Yunnan"]

﻿A revision of the South American species of the Morelloid clade (Solanum L., Solanaceae)
The Morelloid clade, also known as the black nightshades or "Maurella" (Maurella), is one of the 10 major clades within the mega-diverse genus Solanum L. The clade is most diverse in the central to southern Andes, but species occur around the tropics and subtropics, some extending well into the temperate zone. Plants of the group vary from herbs to short-lived perennials to perennial shrubs that are distinctly woody at the base, they have small mostly white or purplish white flowers and small juicy berries. Due to the complex morphological variation and weedy nature of these plants, coupled with the large number of published synonyms (especially for European taxa), our understanding of species limits and diversity in the Morelloid clade has lagged behind that of other clades in Solanum. Here we provide the last in a three-part series of monographic treatments of the morelloid solanums (see PhytoKeys Vols. 106, 125), treating the 62 species occurring in South America. This region is by far the most diverse in the clade, both in terms of species number and morphological diversity. We provide complete synonymy, nomenclatural details, including lecto- and neotypifications where needed, common names and uses, morphological descriptions, illustrations to aid identification both in herbaria and in the field, and distribution maps for all native, non-cultivated species. We include a key to all species, a synoptic character list for the species treated here and links to synoptic online keys for all species of the Morelloid clade. Preliminary conservation assessments following IUCN guidelines are also provided for all native species.
["American tropics"]

﻿Hedyotis longiramulis (Rubiaceae), a new species from south China
Hedyotis longiramulis sp. nov. (Rubiaceae) is described from Guangdong Province, China. It is similar to H. caudatifolia but differs in having puberulent, more or less tetragonal and decussately sulcate juvenile stems, waxy leaf surface, short inflorescence peduncles, high length ratio of corolla lobe to tube, and subglobose capsules. The phylogenetic analysis reveals that H. longiramulis is sister to H. pubirachis. Dimorphism concerning pollen size was observed in the heterostylous flowers. The complete chloroplast genome of the new species comprises a typical quadripartite structure of 153,616 bp in length, with two inverted repeats of 25,457 bp, a large single-copy of 85,050 bp and a small single-copy of 17,652 bp. It contains 112 unique genes, including 79 protein-coding genes, 29 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes, the GC content of the chloroplast genome is 32.4%. The new species is provisionally evaluated as “Least Concern” because it is common and well-protected in two Provincial Nature Reserves.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿A new lithophilous species of Gesneriaceae, Petrocodon rubrostriatus, from the karst area of South Yunnan, China
A new lithophytic species of Gesneriaceae, Petrocodon rubrostriatus K.Tan, X.Q.Song & M.X.Ren, sp. nov. from Lvchun County, South Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated here. It closest resembles P. mollifolius (W.T.Wang) A.Weber & Mich.Möller, but the new species is differentiated from it by red to brownish-red stripes in the yellow corolla throat and 4.5 mm long bract lobes, a ca. 10 mm long style, and staminodes inserted at 2.5–3 mm from the corolla base. The species is preliminarily assessed as ‘Critically Endangered’ (CR) according to IUCN criteria, since currently only one single locality is known with a few subpopulations on a fragmented limestone cliff, with fewer than 300 individuals.

﻿A new species of Schlegelia (Schlegeliaceae) from wet montane forest of Colombia and a key for the species of the genus
In this paper we describe and illustrate Schlegelia longirachis a new species from montane forest remnants (1200--1900 m) in the Western slope of the Eastern Cordillera of Colombia (“Serranía de Las Quinchas” and Virolín county) in the Departments of Boyacá and Santander. A root-climbing liana, the new species is contrasted to S. fuscata, S. monachinoi and S. parviflora, the three most morphologically similar species of Schlegelia. This new species is differentiated from its putative close relatives by vegetative (texture, colour, pubescence and shape in leaves, bracts, bracteoles pedicel, calyx and corolla), inflorescences as well as floral characters (staminode absent). We provide an updated key to 24 known species of Schlegelia. For the identification key, S. fuscata and S. roseiflora are regarded here as different from S. parviflora. S. urbaniana is considered a synonym of S. axillaris, whereas S. fastigiata is separated from S. sulphurea as a recognizable species. Schlegelia has its center of distribution in Colombia, where 17 of the species are known to occur.
["Climbing plants"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Revision of the genus Agrostis (Poaceae, Pooideae, Poeae) in Megamexico
Agrostis is one of the most diverse genera of the Poaceae, including ca. 198 species, principally distributed in cold and temperate regions of the world, but also found in the high mountains of the tropics. We present a revision based on morphoanatomical evidence, for the biogeographic region known as Megamexico 3 (i.e., Mexico including the desert areas of southern USA and the Central America territory, to northern Nicaragua). We include taxonomic descriptions and an identification key for the found taxa, maps with the known geographical distribution of the species, and figures with the morphoanatomical characteristics, elevation and phenology. Agrostis is represented in the study zone by 20 species, of which four are endemic and three are introduced. Most records of the genus are distributed in the mountains, above 1500 m a.s.l., in open areas of temperate forests, with conifers and Quercus. Specimens with spikelets occur year round, but most records occur during the wet season, in the months of July to October. We propose a preliminary conservation assessment for each species in the study zone, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature categories: one with Deficient Data (DD), six as Endangered (EN), two as Vulnerable (VU), and 11 as Least Concern (LC).
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

﻿Ixeridium sagittarioides (Asteraceae-Cichorieae) revisited: range extension and molecular evidence for its systematic position in the Lactuca alliance
Our first record of the rare and scatteredly distributed Ixeridium sagittarioides for Guizhou, China, triggered a study to assess its systematic position. The species was placed in four different genera in the course of its taxonomic history and was recently treated with doubts as a member of Ixeridium in the Flora of China. Comparative morphological investigation and phylogenetic analyses based on the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and five non-coding plastid DNA regions (petD region, psbA-trnH, trnL-trnF, rpl32-trnL (UAG) and 5´rps16-trnQ (UUG) spacers) provided evidence that the species is not a member of Ixeridium and the Crepidinae but has evolved by ancient hybridisation of members of the Lactuca alliance (Lactucinae). It is reinstated as Lactuca sagittarioides and a comprehensive morphological description is provided, based on material from its entire range of distribution.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

﻿Primula medogensis, a new species of Primulaceae from Tibet of China
We present a description of a newly discovered species, Primula medogensis, found in southern Xizang, China. Additionally, we explore distinctive morphological characteristics that aid in its taxonomy. The new species belongs to sect. Cordifoliae and exhibits morphological similarities to P. baileyana and P. rotundifolia. However, it can be distinguished by its densely grayish-haired roots, petioles that are 3–7 times longer than the leaf blades, a short stock surrounded by straight and withered petioles, reniform leaf blades with revolute margins, scapes shorter than or equal to leave and both at flowering and in fruiting, flowers solitary on the scapes.

﻿Artemisia qingheensis (Asteraceae, Anthemideae), a new species from Xinjiang, China
Artemisia qingheensis (Asteraceae, Anthemideae), a new species from Qinghe County, Xinjiang, China, is described and illustrated. We investigated its phylogenetic position and relationships with 35 other species of Artemisia using whole chloroplast DNA sequence data. The molecular phylogenetic results and morphological evidence (multi-layered involucral bracts and homogamous capitula with bisexual flowers) showed that the new species belongs to Artemisia subgenus Seriphidium. A diagnostic table and discussion of morphological characters are provided to distinguish the new species from A. amoena, A. gracilescens, A. lessingiana and A. terrae-albae.
["Artemisia subg. Seriphidium"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

﻿A new species of Atriplex (Amaranthaceae) from the Indian subcontinent
A new subshrubby C4-species from the lowlands and foothills of India, Pakistan and SE Afghanistan, Atriplex pseudotatarica, is described and illustrated. Previously, it was incorrectly identified as A. crassifolia auct. non C.A.Mey. belonging to a distant C3-group of the genus. A phylogenetic analysis based on nrITS and nrETS revealed its position as sister to A. schugnanica (sect. Obionopsis). Both species share aphyllous inflorescence and smooth bract-like cover, but differ in life form, leaves, seed colour, and geographical distribution. We revised native Indian Atriplex species and excluded some of them from the flora of the country. An improved checklist of the native Atriplex species in India with their corrected synonymy and nomenclature is given, and a new diagnostic key is provided.
["Atriplex"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Primulina pingnanensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guangxi, China
A new species of Primulina, P. pingnanensis, from the Guangxi Zhuangzu Autonomous Region, China, is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to P. orthandra but has significant differences in the bracts, corolla tube and lobes shape, as well as in the indumentum of the outer surface of the corolla, the filaments, the staminodes and the anthers. Colorful photographs and essential information of this new taxon are also provided, including detailed taxonomic description, distribution, habitat, the comparison table, and the IUCN conservation status. We also discuss a validation of new combination P. crassifolia and Chirita crassifolia.

﻿Seven Epithemia taxa (Bacillariophyta) from Lake Akan (Japan) and their salinity tolerances
The ecologies (salinity tolerance) of many diatoms are largely unknown, despite their potential to contribute to more detailed paleoenvironmental reconstructions. This study therefore aimed to investigate the relationship between diatom species and salinity. We cultured seven cosmopolitan benthic diatom species obtained from Lake Akan, a freshwater inland lake in Japan: Epithemia adnata, E. frickei, E. gibba, E. operculata, E. sorex, E. sp. and E. turgida. Each species was cultured at eleven salinities between 0‰ and 50‰. Epithemia adnata, E. frickei and E. sorex had the highest growth rate at a salinity of 3‰, with no further increase observed above 25‰. However, E. gibba had the highest growth rate at a salinity of 5‰, with no increase at salinities ≥ 30‰. These results suggest that E. adnata, E. frickei, E. gibba, and E. sorex grow in freshwater to brackish-water environments. Epithemia operculata and E. sp. proliferated at all salinities, indicating that they can adapt to hypersaline environments. However, E. turgida did not survive in salinities >10‰, making it the species with the narrowest salinity tolerance range. These results provide new knowledge that improves the understanding of the ecology of these species in modern environments and offer insights into paleoenvironmental reconstructions through diatom analysis.
["Diatom"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

﻿A new species of Amorphophallus (Araceae) from northeastern Thailand
Amorphophallus sakonnakhonensis Chatan & Promprom, a new species from northeastern Thailand, is described and illustrated. The new species is most similar to A. harmandii Engl. & Gehrm. and A. linearis Gagnep., but it is distinguished by the combination of characters as follows: clear differences with A. harmandii are shorter style; disc-like, slightly smooth surface, concave centre, ca. 0.2 × 0.1 mm stigma; slightly cylindrical, slightly narrower upper part of staminate flower zone; slightly cylindrical to elongate-fusiform, erect or slightly erect, creamy white appendix. The clearly distinct morphology with A. linearis are disc-like, slightly smooth surface, concave centre, ca. 0.2 × 0.1 mm stigma; elliptic or obovate leaflet; 1–3 cm long, creamy white appendix. The preliminary conservation status was assessed, and the distinct characteristics of similar species were discussed.
["Amorphophallus sakonnakhonensis"]

﻿Taxonomic and ecological remarks on Solenopsis bivonae species complex (Campanulaceae)
The populations usually attributed to Solenopsis bivonae (Tineo) M.B.Crespo, Serra & A.Juan are investigated from a taxonomical and morphological viewpoint. Within this species complex, four new subspecies occurring in Sicily and Calabria are recognized, such as subsp. bivonae, subsp. madoniarum, subsp. peloritana and subsp. brutia. In addition, a new species from Cyprus described as S. meikleana and S. bacchettae from Sardinia must be included in this group. The synonymy, typification, description, seed testa morphology, chorology, ecology, illustrations, conservation status, and examined specimens for each taxon are provided. Besides, the analytical keys, distribution maps, and phytosociological arrangement regarding these taxa are given too.
["ecology"]

﻿Anthemis sect. Hiorthia (Asteraceae) on Kriti Island, Greece: high ploidy levels and a new species
A morphological and karyological investigation of the Anthemis sect. Hiorthia representatives of Kriti (Greece) revealed that three different species are found on the island, all endemic, and each characterised by a different ploidy level based on the haploid series of x = 9. Anthemis abrotanifolia, the species with the widest distribution, is tetraploid with 2n = 4x = 36. A. samariensis, a local endemic of the Lefka Ori, was found being decaploid, with 2n = 10x = 90, the highest number ever recorded in Anthemis. The recently discovered population on Mt. Kedros (south-central Kriti) is morphologically distinct from all the Anthemis entities growing on Kriti; it also differs from the variable and widespread A. cretica group. It is here described as a new species, A. pasiphaes Goula & Constantinidis. It is a hexaploid, with 2n = 6x = 54. All chromosome numbers are reported for the first time. Polyploidy might have acted as a reproductive barrier among these perennial species, complementing isolation by spatial distance and evolutionary divergence. Further, it might have contributed adaptation advantages to these three predominately mountain species.
["Anthemideae"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

﻿Rosa funingensis (Rosaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
A new species Rosa funingensis and its variant R. funingensis f. rosea, both collected from Yunnan Province, China, are, for the first time, documented and illustrated in this study. Morphological analysis in comparison with two related species in the wild, R. gigantea and R. rubus, presents distinguishable features through leaf surfaces, inflorescences and the shape of styles. R. funingensis leaf surfaces are abaxially villous, purple-red, pale green when mature, adaxially glabrous, dark green; inflorescences solitary or 2–5(7) in corymbose cyme; and styles connate into a column or not, exserted.
["molecular evidence"]
["Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿When the absence of evidence is not the evidence of absence: Nasa (Loasaceae) rediscoveries from Peru and Ecuador, and the contribution of community science networks
Documentation of plant taxa has long been subject to the temporal and spatial selectivity of professional research expeditions, especially in tropical regions. Therefore, rare and/or narrowly endemic species are sometimes known only from very few and very old herbarium specimens. However, these taxa are very important from a conservation perspective. The lack of observations of living plants and confirmation of the actual occurrence of taxa hinders the planning and implementation of effective conservation measures. Community science networks have recently made tremendous contributions to documenting biodiversity in many regions across the globe. The rediscovery of six species of Nasa (Loasaceae) from Peru and Ecuador primarily via the platform iNaturalist, is reported.

﻿The diatom genus Ulnaria (Bacillariophyta) in China
This study deals with Ulnaria species found and described from two regions of China with large climate differences during the period of 2014–2022. The first region, located in the Wuling Mountains and Hunan province, has a subtropical climate and the second in Qinghai, a northwest province of China, has a highland continental climate which is characterized by a cold and long winter and warm, short summer. Previously there were nine new Ulnaria species published from the first region. This study describes 14 additional new Ulnaria taxa, nine of which were found in the first region and five of which were found in the second region. A key to the Ulnaria species that have been described from China is provided. The main morphological characteristics for 63 Ulnaria taxa are summarized in Appendices which allow the division of these Ulnaria taxa into three groups: the seven members of group one all possess both uniseriate striae and valve marginal spines, the 42 members of group two all possess uniseriate or mostly uniseriate striae but without the valve marginal spines, and the 14 members of group three all possess mostly biseriate striae and without valve marginal spines. To summarize the morphological characters of the published Ulnaria taxa and 14 taxa described in this study several conclusions for the characterization of Ulnaria are drawn: 1) each cell has two valve-appressed, long plate-like plastids; 2) living cells of many Ulnaria species often lie in girdle view on a slide because they have deep mantles and some copulae associated with either the epivalve or the hypovalve so that the cell depth is often larger than the valve width; 3) the basic structures forming a valve include sternum, virgae, and vimines/viminules; 4) the valvocopula is a closed hoop which has a similar ultrastructure in all Ulnaria taxa but differs from the other copulae in structure; 5) the configuration of girdle bands is a common condition; 6) the life history of Ulnaria can be divided into the four series of successive stages: auxospore, initial cell, pre-normal vegetative cell, and normal vegetative cell, which is very similar to the life history of Hannaea inaequidentata (Lagerstedt) Genkal and Kharitonov; 7) the closed valvocopula is proposed as a definition character for the genus Ulnaria because demonstrating all girdle bands closed is impracticable.
["Girdle band structures"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

﻿Desmopsis terriflora, an extraordinary new species of Annonaceae with flagelliflory
Flagelliflory refers to the production of inflorescences exclusively on long, whip-like branches which emerge from the main trunk and extend along the ground or below it. It is the rarest type of cauliflory and only a few cases have been reported in the world. Here, a new species of Annonaceae with flagelliflory is described and illustrated. The phylogenetic relationships of the new species were inferred using a hybrid-capture phylogenomic approach and we present some notes on its reproductive ecology and pollen characteristics. The new species, namely Desmopsis terriflora sp. nov., is part of a clade composed of Mexican species of Stenanona with long, awned petals. Desmopsis terriflora is distinguished by its flageliflorous inflorescences, basely fused sepals, thick red petals, reduced number of ovules per carpel, pollen grains with a weakly rugulate to fossulate exine ornamentation, and its globose, apiculate fruits with a woody testa. The morphological characteristics of the flagella suggest that these are specialized branches rather than inflorescences, and the absence of ramiflory implies an exclusively reproductive function. The flowers are infrequently visited by insects, their potential pollinators being flies and ants.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿A new remarkable Vanilla Mill. (Orchidaceae) species endemic to the Espinhaço Range, Brazil: its phylogenetic position and evolutionary relationships among Neotropical congeners
During surveys conducted on Neotropical Vanilla, a new endemic species was found in the Brazilian campos rupestres of the Espinhaço Range. Here, this new remarkable Vanilla species, namely V. rupicola Pansarin & E.L.F. Menezes, is described and illustrated. A phylogeny for Vanilla is presented and the relationships between Neotropical species are discussed. The position of V. rupicola among Neotropical Vanilla is discussed within an evolutionary context. Vanilla rupicola is recognized by its rupicolous habit, its reptant stems, and its sessile and rounded leaves. This remarkable new taxon emerges in a clade that includes V. appendiculata Rolfe and V. hartii Rolfe. Vegetative and floral features support a close relationship between V. rupicola and sister taxa, mainly regarding the apical inflorescence (V. appendiculata), the type of appendages of the central crest of the labellum, and the labellar color pattern. Phylogenetic inference suggests that the circumscription of Neotropical Vanilla groups needs revision.
["Biochemical and biochemical processes", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Selaginella densiciliata (subg. Heterostachys, Selaginellaceae), a new spikemoss species from China based on morphological and molecular data
A new species of spikemoss, Selaginella densiciliata in S. subg. Heterostachys sect. Tetragonostachyae, China, is described from southeastern Xizang, based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic data. Morphologically, S. densiciliata is similar to S. repanda, S. subvaginata and S. vaginata, but the new species can be easily distinguished from them by having sterile leaves margins densely ciliate, symmetrical axillary leaves oblong ovate to ovate-triangular, and ovate dorsal leaves obviously carinate. Molecular phylogenetic analysis resolves S. densiciliata as sister to the clade comprised with S. vaginata and S. xipholepis, which confirms the recognition of the new species.
["Medog"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Silene isabellae (Caryophyllaceae), a new campion species from serpentine soils of Albania
The new species Silene isabellae is described and illustrated from the Skënderbëut mountain range of central Albania. It grows on the ultramafic mountain slopes around Qafë Shtamë, in the understorey of open Pinus nigra forests and in the rocky grasslands above the forest belt, at 1000–1600 m a.s.l. Silene isabellae is a serpentine endemic likely belonging to section Elisanthe (Fenzl ex Endl.) Ledeb. and shows affinities with the widespread European species S. noctiflora L. It is sharply distinct from the latter species in habit, stem and leaf pubescence, morphology, and biology of the flowers and length of the carpophore. Moreover, the ecology of the two taxa is also contrasting, being S. noctiflora a synanthropic-ruderal, mostly in lowlands. Weaker similarities were also observed with the south European subalpine taxa of the group of S. vallesia L. of section Auriculatae (Boiss.) Schischk., though these are not likely to reflect a real systematic affinity.
["Albanian flora"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Morphology and molecular phylogeny of Pleurosigma pacificum sp. nov. (Pleurosigmataceae), a new tropical pelagic species from the Western Pacific Ocean
A new species of pelagic diatom, Pleurosigma pacificum sp. nov., is described from the tropical Western Pacific Ocean. It has the typical features of Pleurosigma, including a slightly sigmoid raphe, intersected transverse and oblique striae, and loculate areolae with external opening slits and internal poroids. Morphologically, P. pacificum belongs to a species group of Pleurosigma with lanceolate valves, including P. atlanticum Heiden & Kolbe, P. nubecula W. Smith, P. indicum Simonsen, and P. simonsenii Hasle. However, P. pacificum differs by its smaller lanceolate valve and smaller intersection angle as well as elliptical areolae without a silica bar. The SSU rDNA and rbcL sequence data place P. pacificum in a basal position relative to other species of Pleurosigma. Our molecular phylogenetic analyses did not support the monophyly of lanceolate and slightly sigmoid species. Thus, the sigmoidality of valve outline cannot be considered as a criterion to define the species group.
["Marine diatoms"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

﻿Amanoa condorensis (Phyllanthaceae), a new shrubby species from the Cordillera del Condor in southern Ecuador
A new species of Amanoa (Phyllanthaceae) is described from the sandstone Nangaritza Plateau in the Cordillera del Cóndor Region in southern Ecuador. Amanoa condorensis J.L.Clark & D.A.Neill is a small tree, 4 m tall that is only known from the type collection. The new species is distinct by a shrub habit, presence of coriaceous leaves with an acuminate apex, and congested inflorescences. The relatively high elevation of the type locality, presence of an androphore, and the habit as shrub or low tree are an unusual combination for Amanoa. The conservation status of A. condorensis is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR), based on IUCN Criteria.
["Andean tepui"]

﻿Rediscovery of Rubus pendulus Rusby (Rosaceae) and a new record for the flora of Ecuador and Peru
We report the rediscovery of Rubus pendulus Rusby, “Mora India”, described in 1933 from Colombia and not mentioned again until the present study. We also update its distribution with eight new localities in Colombia, seven in Ecuador and one in Peru, being a new record for the flora of the latter two countries. This is the first time that R. pendulus’ stipules and flowers are found and detailed through a botanical description, illustrations and photographs. Rubus pendulus is morphologically differentiated from R. bogotensis Benth., R. mollifrons Focke, R. porphyromallos Focke and R. urticifolius Poir., with whom it was previously confused and we give a brief explanation on the type specimen status of R. mollifrons and R. porphyromallos.
["Berry genetics and cultivation research", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botanical Studies and Applications"]

﻿New and noteworthy species of the genus Epidendrum (Orchidaceae, Laeliinae) from the Área de Conservación Privada La Pampa del Burro, Amazonas, Peru
Fourteen species of the genus Epidendrum, recently collected in the Área de Conservación Privada La Pampa del Burro (ACPPB), five of them new to science (Epidendrum echinatiantherum sp. nov., E. imazaense sp. nov., E. parvireflexilobum sp. nov., E. rosulatum sp. nov., and E. ochrostachyum sp. nov.), are described and illustrated. The other species include a new record for Peru (E. acrobatesii) and four for the department of Amazonas (E. brachyblastum, E. forcipatum, E. mavrodactylon, and E. tridens). Epidendrum enantilobum is here considered a synonym of Epidendrum brachyblastum. The type locality of Epidendrum cryptorhachis, originally stated as Ecuador, Guayabamba, is corrected to indicate that it refers to the valley of Guayabamba, Rodríguez de Mendoza, Amazonas, Peru. Our results show the need to continue conducting botanical exploration in the ACPPB as a baseline for subsequent studies, including a full inventory of the orchid diversity.
["Dwarf forest on white sand"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Rediscovery of Primula brachystoma (Primulaceae), a rare species endemic to Gaoligong Mountain of Chinese-Burma frontier
The rare Primula brachystoma W.W.Sm. is an endemic species confined to Gaoligong mountain of Chinese-Burma frontier, which has been rediscovered from the same region after nearly 100 years. In total, 11 specimens from Gaoligong Mountain have been found in the herbaria worldwide, since its first collection in 1920 by Farrer, Reginald John. Previously, this species was described as homostylous but our finding shows the species also exhibited heterostyly. A complete description of the species, the distribution, morphological comparison and identification key from closely related species are provided here. An assessment of its conservation status suggests that the species is ‘Endangered’ (EN).
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

﻿Primula jiaozishanensis (Primulaceae), a new species in Primula sect. Petiolares subsect. Davidii from Yunnan, China
Primula jiaozishanensis Z.K.Wu, W.H.Yang & Yuan Wu, a new species of Primulaceae is described and illustrated from Jiaozi Snow Mountain of Dongchuan District, Yunnan, China. Morphological evidence supports P. jiaozishanensis as a member of P. sect. Petiolares subsect. Davidii, which is characterized by firmly papery or leathery leaves, with veins impressed adaxially, often prominently raised and alveolate abaxially. The new species is characterized by having long and stout rhizomes, smaller leaves with short petioles, short or almost obsolete scape, and larger flowers. The distribution, phenology and conservation status of the new species are also provided.
["Jiao zi shan bao chun"]

﻿A new species of Piper (Piperaceae) with peltate leaves from Serranía de las Quinchas, Colombia
Piper quinchasense is described and illustrated as a new species occurring in the understory of wet montane forest of the middle Magdalena Valley in Colombia, the easternmost portion of the Chocó Region. Its relationships are discussed with related taxa from the Macrostachys clade. An identification key for 35 Neotropical Piper species with peltate leaves is provided.
["Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Typification of the name Ranunculus rionii (Ranunculaceae)
Available information on the typification of the name Ranunculus rionii in the literature is scarce and misleading. Previously claimed type collections indicate Lagger as the collector, but the protologue discusses only the specimens collected by Rion. Original material for the name is identified, the locality of the type collection is specified, Lagger’s way of writing herbarium labels for his type specimens is described, the history of the discovery of R. rionii is reviewed, and the name is lectotypified.
["Franz Joseph Lagger"]

﻿Amentotaxus × hybridia (Taxaceae), a new natural Amentotaxus hybrid from southeast Yunnan province, China
During floristic surveys of Taxaceae in Hekou County, Yunnan Province, China, a putative natural hybrid between A. yunnanensis H.L. Li and A. hekouensis L.M. Gao was collected. Morphological and molecular evidence confirms its status as a natural hybrid. Amentotaxus × hybridia L.M. Gao has linear or linear-lanceolate leaves 6–13 cm × 1.0–1.5 cm, white stomatal bands with 34–40 rows on abaxial side, 2.5–3.5 mm, slightly wider than leaf margins; 3–6 seeds borne at the base of the branchlet, peduncle 1.3–1.6 cm long with 3–4 rows of persistent basal bracts.
["Amentotaxus \u00d7 hybridia"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

﻿Marsupella brasiliensis sp. nov. (Gymnomitriaceae, Marchantiophyta) from Brazil – the distribution of sect. Stolonicaulon in Neotropics is now confirmed
The specimen previously identified as Marsupella microphylla from Brazil is reassessed and described as a new species, M. brasiliensis. The new species is characterized by paroicous inflorescence, bispiral elaters, scale-like, commonly unlobed leaves and very small leaf cells. Descriptions and drawings are provided along with a corresponding discussion of the morphological peculiarity of the new species. Marsupella brasiliensis belongs to sect. Stolonicaulon, and the distribution of Marsupella sect. Stolonicaulon in the New World is confirmed. The infrageneric position of M. microphylla remains unresolved, and whether it belongs to the same section is still unclear.
["Distribution patterns"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿The identity of Sasa oblongula C.H.Hu (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Arundinarieae): evidence from morphology and molecular data
Sasa oblongula was described in 1987 based on a cultivated plant at the bamboo garden of Sun Yat-sen University. This species has two or three branches at the upper nodes, which differ from the rest of Sasa species that have a single branch per node. During the field trip to Baishi Town, Yunfu City, Guangdong Province in July 2021, one bamboo species with oblong foliage leaves was collected and matches the isotype. Then, our question was to test the identity of S. oblongula concerning other Sasa species based on morphology and molecular data. To do that, we sequenced the whole chloroplast genome of S. oblongula and did a phylogenetic analysis. Our morphological results indicate that the new collection is S. oblongula. The phylogenetic tree showed that S. oblongula is close to Pseudosasa, instead of Sasa species. Therefore, we transferred it to the genus Pseudosasa, and a revised description of P. oblongula is provided here.
["bamboo"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant responses to water stress", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Primulina jiulianshanensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Jiangxi Province, China
Primulina jiulianshanensis F.Wen & G.L.Xu, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Jiulianshan National Nature Reserve of Jiangxi Province, China, is described and illustrated here. Molecular evidence showed it was sister to P. wenii Jian Li & L.J.Yan, while the morphological observation found clear differences between them, petiole, both sides of leaf blades, adaxial surface of the calyx lobes, corolla inside toward the bottom, bract margins covered glandular-pubescent hairs in P. jiulianshanensis (vs. no glandular-pubescent hairs in P. wenii); lateral bracts 4–9 × ca. 2 mm, the central one 2–5 × 1–1.5 mm, adaxially glabrous but sparsely pubescent at apex (vs. lateral bracts 14–16 × 2.5–3.0 mm, the central one 10–12 × 1.3–1.6 mm, all adaxially pubescent); calyx lobes 8–11 × ca. 2 mm, each side with several brown serrate teeth at apex (vs. 14–15 × ca. 2.5 mm, margin entire); filaments and staminodes sparsely yellow glandular-puberulent (vs. white, glabrous).
["Flora of Jiangxi"]

﻿A new species of Argyreia (Convolvulaceae) from Yunnan, China
Argyreia subrotunda, a new species from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species resembles A. fulvocymosa and A. wallichii, but differs from these in the flowers with an entire or shallowly lobed corolla, as well as smaller elliptic bracts, lax flat-topped cymes and shorter corolla tubes. An updated key to the species of Argyreia from Yunnan province is also provided.
["Argyreia subrotunda"]

﻿Notes on Carex (Cyperaceae) from China (IX): three new species of section Mitratae s.l.
Carex sect. Mitratae s.l. was established by Kükenthal in 1909 and can be distinguished from the closely related sections in having nutlets frequently discoid-annulate at the apex and a persistent style base. Based on field surveys and specimen examination, three new species of sect. Mitratae are described and illustrated here. Carex fatsuaniana was collected from Yunnan and differs from C. truncatigluma in having the utricles nearly glabrous, the nutlets with a ca. 0.5 mm long beak at the apex, the staminate spikes cylindrical, 5–7.5 cm long, 4–5 mm wide, and the pistillate glumes acuminate at the apex. Carex damingshanica was collected from Guangxi and differs from C. breviscapa and C. rhynchachaenium in having 3 or 4 spikes, the lateral spikes cylindrical, the pistillate glumes, utricles and nutlets all shorter than in the other two species. Carex radicalispicula was collected from Sichuan and differs from C. truncatirostris in having the staminate spikes clavate, 1.5–2 mm wide, the pistillate glumes pale yellow-white, 3–3.2 mm long, acuminate or short-awned at the apex, and the nutlets with 3 angles shallowly constricted at the middle.
["Carex sect. Mitratae"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Silene ophioglossa (Caryophyllaceae, Sileneae), a new species from southwest China
Silene ophioglossa Huan C. Wang & Feng Yang, a new species of Caryophyllaceae, is here described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species was found in Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, southwest China. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS sequences showed this new species belongs to section Cucubaloides. Morphologically, it resembles S. phoenicodonta and S. viscidula, which were also found in the southwest China, but clearly differs from the latter two species by having 5–7 mm long calyces with sparsely hirtellous and short glandular hairs, white petals, linear limbs and lobes, and absent or oblong-linear coronal scales. A distribution map and a table with morphological diagnostic characters of new species and its closest relatives are provided, as well as a preliminary conservation assessment of S. ophioglossa under the IUCN criteria.
["Conservation assessment"]

﻿A note on the type of Harpalyce (Fabaceae, Brongniartieae), with description of two new local endemic species from Cuba
Two new species of Harpalyce are described from Cuba, H. revoluta sp. nov. from a serpentine area in the northern part of E. Cuba and H. marianensis sp. nov. from calcareous areas in the southern part of E. Cuba. Both have relatively small flowers, with an up to 6 mm long standard, and 2–3 mm long wings. Harpalyce marianensis is further characterized by strongly suberous (corky) young branches of a spongy consistence, deeply furrowed longitudinally, and by leaflets covered with a particular type of orange, apparently disk-shaped, sessile glands abaxially. Harpalyce revoluta, moreover, has suborbicular or broadly elliptic leaflets with a strongly recurved or sometimes revolute margin, secondary veins inconspicuous on either side; the foliar glands, by their morphology and anatomy, are of a different type. An epitype is designated for the name Harpalyce and its type, H. formosa; the distribution of both new species and their close relatives is mapped, and an updated identification key is offered, to cater for all 16 currently recognised Cuban species.
["Brongniartieae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

﻿A new species of Struthanthus Mart. (Loranthaceae) from Oaxaca, Mexico
Struthanthus ibe-dzi sp. nov. is a new species described and illustrated from the cloud and pine-oak forests of the Sierra Madre del Sur in Oaxaca, Mexico. This species shares similarities of leaf shape and inflorescence type with S. deppeanus, S. quercicola, and S. ramiro-cruzii. However, S. ibe-dzi can be recognized by its glaucous branches, leaves and inflorescences; compressed nodes; convoluted distal half of styles in pistillate flowers; and staminate flowers with asymmetrical thecae and an extended connective forming an apiculate horn in both anther series. A distribution map and an identification key are provided to separate S. ibe-dzi from morphologically similar congeners present in the region.

﻿Palynological features and taxonomic significance for 16 species of Gagea (Liliaceae) from Xinjiang, China
Since pollen characters can be used to help distinguish species, our aim was to determine if palynological information has taxonomic significance for Gagea species from Xinjiang, China. Gagea is widely distributed in north temperate and the subtropical zones. The genus has limited taxonomic characteristics and large morphological variation, which results in difficulty of species classification. Pollen morphology of 16 species of this genus was examined comprehensively via light microscope (LM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). One qualitative and nine quantitative traits of the pollen grains were surveyed, followed by hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). The pollen grains were bilaterally symmetrical heteropolar monads with a mono-sulcus and they were oblate or peroblate (Polar diameter (P) / Equatorial diameter (E) = 0.36–0.73) in shape and medium to large (P = 17.17–34.64 μm, E = 27.63–81.65 μm) in size. Three types of exine ornamentation were observed: perforate, microreticulate and reticulate cristatum. The HCA divided the 16 species into two groups. This research provides new data on pollen morphology for Gagea (the pollen morphology of eight species was reported for the first time). Pollen morphology also can be used to identify species with similar external morphology, such as G. nigra and G. filiformis. Furthermore, the study of pollen morphology not only provides new data for palynology research on Gagea, but also provides a basis for future classification of this genus.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Species of Peperomia (Piperaceae) from the Saña River Valley, Peru
The Saña River Valley in Northern Peru is unusual for the western slopes of the Peruvian Andes because of its nearly year-round regime of precipitation instead of marked seasonal dry winters. This results in unexpected plant diversity. We surveyed the species of Peperomia (Piperaceae), occurring in this valley from 300 to 3000 m elevation, based on the study of specimens from ten herbaria and field collections, resulting in a total of 81 accessions, of which 48 were made by the authors. We found 16 different taxa: Peperomia cacaophila, from Ecuador, is reported for the first time in Peru; P. cymbifolia, P. dolabriformis and P. emarginulata are reported for the first time for the Saña River Valley; other widely distributed species like P. fraseri, P. galioides, P. haematolepis, P. hispidula, P. inaequalifolia, P. microphylla, and P. rotundata were also found. Five species new to science are described: P. pilocarpa, P. riosaniensis, close to P. palmiformis from Amazonas; P. sagasteguii, related to P. trinervis, P. symmankii, close to P. ricardofernandezii from Piura, and P. vivipara, related to P. alata. A key to the species of Peperomia from the Saña River Valley, based on vegetative characters, is provided.
["Amotape-Huancabamba Zone"]
["Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Yersinochloa nghiana, a new species (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Bambuseae) from southern Vietnam
Yersinochloa nghiana sp. nov. from Vietnam is described and illustrated. It is found from southern Vietnam, where it occurs at an elevation of 1130 m in Braian Mountain, Di Linh District, Lam Dong Province. This new species is distinguished from a similar species, Yersinochloa dalatensis, by culm nodes with a thick swollen patella, culm leaf blades erect, auricles conspicuous, margins bearing long hairs, palea dorsal view showing rachilla extension and rudimentary floret at the apex and lodicules bifid at the base.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications"]

﻿A new species of Liparis (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae, Malaxidinae) from the Bosque de Protección Alto Mayo, San Martín, Peru
Liparis altomayoënsis sp. nov. is described, illustrated, and tentatively assigned to the Neotropical section Decumbentes on the basis of its branching, prostrate rhizomes and upright stems bearing several leaves. Vegetatively, the new species is distinguished by its short, upward stems bearing 3–6 leaves, these with undulate, translucent margins and reticulate, prominent veining on the upper surface. Florally, it is distinctive in the labellum with fleshy basal one-half provided with a central, rounded cavity limited on each side by a prominent, bilobulate ridge and apically by a lunate ridge, and membranaceous, trilobulate apical one-half deflexed ca. 90°. In contrast with other species of section Decumbentes, in which fruit formation is infrequent, in L. altomayoënsis a high proportion (⁓50–100%) of flowers develop into a fruit; in some flowers the pollinaria rotate and contact the stigma, apparently resulting in at least facultative self-pollination. The main differences among the six species of L. section Decumbentes hitherto known are contrasted in a dichotomous key. The new species is known only from three populations located in the Bosque de Protección Alto Mayo, on the Amazonian slope of the Andes in northeastern Peru but appears to be under no foreseeable threats.
["Andean cloud forest"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Taxonomy and distribution of Taraxacum sect. Erythrosperma (Asteraceae) in Poland
The dandelions from Taraxacum sect. Erythrosperma are taxonomically well distinguished and ecologically restricted to warm and sunlit habitats of steppes, dry and sandy grasslands, and distributed in temperate regions of Europe and Central Asia, with some being introduced to North America. Despite the long tradition of botanical research, the taxonomy and distribution of dandelions of T. sect. Erythrosperma is still underexplored in central Europe. In this paper, by combining traditional taxonomic studies supported by micromorphological, molecular and flow cytometry analyses as well as potential distribution modelling we shed light on taxonomical and phylogenetical relationships between members of T. sect. Erythrosperma in Poland. We also provide an identification key, species-checklist, detailed descriptions of morphology and occupated habitats as well as distribution maps for 14 Polish erythrosperms (T. bellicum, T. brachyglossum, T. cristatum, T. danubium, T. disseminatum, T. dissimile, T. lacistophyllum, T. parnassicum, T. plumbeum, T. proximum, T. sandomiriense, T. scanicum, T. tenuilobum, T. tortilobum). Finally, conservation assessments performed using the IUCN method and threat categories for all the examined species are proposed.
["Dandelions"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

﻿An annotated plant checklist of the transboundary volcanic Mt Elgon, East Africa
Mt Elgon is an ancient transboundary volcanic mountain found at the Kenya-Uganda boarder possessing high plant diversity. This study documents an updated checklist of the mountain’s vascular plants obtained through random-walk field excursions and retrieval of herbarium specimen tracing back to 1900. We compiled 1709 species from 673 genera in 131 families. One new species of the family Cucurbitaceae was also reported. This checklist records respective habitat, habits, elevation ranges, voucher numbers and global distribution ranges of each species. Native and exotic species were also distinguished, where 8.4% of the total species in 49 families were exotic species. There were 103 endemic species, while 14 species were found to be both rare and endemic. IUCN conservation status revealed 2 Critically Endangered, 4 Endangered, 9 Vulnerable and 2 Near Threatened species. This study presents the first and most comprehensive plant inventory of Mt Elgon that will facilitate further ecological and phylogenetic studies.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

﻿Contributions to Ecuadorian butterworts (Lentibulariaceae, Pinguicula): two new species and a re-evaluation of Pinguicula calyptrata
Comparatively few species of the insectivorous genus Pinguicula L. have been recognized in South America so far. In recent years, a number of narrowly endemic taxa from the Andes have been described that simultaneously refined the broad taxonomic concepts of the “historical” species. Here, we describe two striking new species from Southern Ecuador that further condense the circumscription of Pinguicula calyptrata Kunth. Pinguicula jimburensis sp. nov. and P. ombrophila sp. nov. are clearly beyond the taxonomic scope of the known species and consequently described as new to science. The deviating morphological features of the two new taxa are described and illustrated and the remaining morphological spectrum of P. calyptrata in Ecuador is outlined. The two new species add to the exceptional biodiversity in the Amotape-Huancabamba Zone and underline its importance as a biodiversity hotspot in urgent need of protection.
["Amotape-Huancabamba"]
["Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Aspidistra daibuensis var. longkiauensis, a new variety of Aspidistra (Asparagaceae) from Taiwan, identified through morphological and genetic analyses
Aspidistra Ker Gawl. is one of the the most diverse and fastest-growing genera of angiosperm. Most Aspidistra species have been discovered in a limited area or a single site through morphological comparison. Because of the lack of population studies, morphological variation within species and the boundaries of some species remain unclear. In recent years, combining genetic and morphological markers has become a powerful approach for species delimitation. In this study, we performed population sampling and integrated morphometrics and microsatellite genetic diversity analyses to determine the species diversity of Aspidistra in Taiwan. We identified three species, namely Aspidistra attenuata Hayata; A. daibuensis Hayata var. daibuensis; A. mushaensis Hayata var. mushaensis; and reduced A. longiconnectiva C.T.Lu, K.C.Chuang & J.C.Wang to the variety level, and described a new variety, A. daibuensis Hayata var. longkiauensis. The description, diagnosis, distribution, and photographs of this new variety as well as a key to the known Taiwanese Aspidistra are provided.
["Aspidistra"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Numerical analyses of seed morphology and its taxonomic significance in the genus Oxytropis DC. (Fabaceae) from northwestern China
The lack of diagnostic taxonomic characteristics in some species complexes leave the species delimitation of Oxytropis DC. unresolved. Seed morphological features have proved to be useful diagnostic and taxonomic characteristics in Fabaceae. However, there are few systematic studies on the seed characteristics of Oxytropis. Here, we used scanning electron and stereoscopic microscopy to investigate the seed characteristics of 35 samples obtained from 21 Oxytropis species from northwest China. Our examination showed two main types of hilum positions, terminal and central, and five different types of seed shapes: prolonged semielliptic, reniform, prolonged reniform, quadratic, and cardiform. Seven different sculpturing patterns were identified: scaled, regulated, lophate with stellated testa cells, simple reticulate, rough, compound reticulate, and lophate with rounded testa cells. The seeds ranged from 1.27 to 2.57 mm in length and from 1.18 to 2.02 mm in width, and the length-to-width ratio ranged from 0.89 to 1.55 mm. The seed shape was constant within species and was useful for species delimitation within the genus Oxytropis when combined with other macroscopic traits. In contrast, the sculpturing patterns were highly variable at the species level and could not be used for species identification. Results of the cluster analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that the seed traits of Oxytropis species are useful for taxa identification at the species level, but have low taxonomic value at the section level.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Resurrection of Leucobryum scalare Müll.Hal. ex M.Fleisch. (Bryophyta, Leucobryaceae) based on phylogenetic and morphometric evidence
Leucobryum scalare was described in 1904 but its taxonomic status has been disputed, being reduced to a variety of Leucobryum aduncum or synonymized with Leucobryum aduncum. The taxonomic confusion of this taxon has remained unresolved. Hence, we revisited the taxonomic status of the taxon using phylogenetic and morphometric approaches. A total of 27 samples from Leucobryum aduncum var. aduncum and Leucobryum aduncum var. scalare were used to generate data from four markers, including ITS1, ITS2, atpB-rbcL spacer, and trnL-trnF. The concatenated dataset was used to reconstruct a phylogenetic tree. Both qualitative and quantitative morphological characters were measured and analyzed with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and PERMANOVA. The results showed that the two taxa are closely related but they are reciprocally monophyletic. Both qualitative and quantitative characters could also separate Leucobryum aduncum var. scalare from Leucobryum aduncum var. aduncum as shown with PCA and PERMANOVA. We propose the resurrection of the species rank for Leucobryum scalare as separate from Leucobryum aduncum. This work highlights the need for a more thorough revision of Leucobryum to clarify the actual level of diversity in this genus.

﻿Lithocarpus dahuensis (Fagaceae), a new species from Fujian Province based on morphology and genomic data
Lithocarpus dahuensis, a new Fagaceae species from Fujian Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to L. konishii, but its oblanceolate leaf blade has more pairs of acute teeth on the margin, denser lateral veins, smaller cupules enclosing up to 1/4–1/3 of the nut, and its nut is only half as long as those of L. konishii. The plastome of L. dahuensis was 161,303 bp in length and displayed the typical quadripartite structure. Phylogenetic analyses distinguished L. dahuensis from L. konishii with strong support based on whole plastome and nrITS, respectively.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Carex quixotiana (Cyperaceae), a new Iberian endemic from Don Quixote’s land (La Mancha, S Spain)
Despite centuries of work, the basic taxonomic knowledge of the flora of the Iberian Peninsula is still incomplete, especially for highly diverse and/or difficult genera such as Carex. In this study, we conducted an integrative systematic study based on molecular, morphological and cytogenetic data to elucidate the taxonomic status of several problematic Carex populations from La Mancha region (S Spain) belonging to Carex sect. Phacocystis. These populations have been traditionally considered of uncertain taxonomic adscription, but close to C. reuteriana due to their morphological appearance and ecological preferences. A detailed morphological and cytogenetic study was performed on 16 La Mancha’s problematic populations (Sierra Madrona and Montes de Toledo) to compare them with the other Iberian sect. Phacocystis species. In addition, a phylogenetic analysis was conducted using two nuclear (ITS, ETS) and two plastid (rpl32‐trnLUAG, ycf6‐psbM) DNA regions, including representatives from all species of sect. Phacocystis. We found a significant degree of molecular and morphological differentiation that supports the recognition of La Mancha’s problematic populations as a new Iberian endemic species, described here as Carex quixotiana Ben.Benítez, Martín-Bravo, Luceño & Jim.Mejías. Our results reveal that C. quixotiana, unexpectedly, is more closely related to C. nigra than to C. reuteriana on the basis of phylogenetic relationships and chromosome number. These contrasting patterns reflect the taxonomic complexity in sect. Phacocystis and highlight the need for integrative systematic approaches to disentangle such complicated evolutionary scenarios.
["Cytogenetics"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

﻿Didymodon changbaiensis (Pottiaceae, Musci), a new species from Changbai Mountain, China and its phylogenetic position based on molecular data
Changbai Mountain, located in northeast China, is one of the areas with the most complete natural ecosystem preservation in China. A new species, Didymodon changbaiensis C.Feng, J.Kou, H.-X. Xiao & T.-T.Wu from north slope of Changbai Mountain in Jilin Province of China is described and illustrated. It is characterised by ovate or ovate-lanceolate leaves that are appressed when dry, acute leaf apex, lamina red or reddish-orange with KOH, unistratose lamina throughout, plane and unistratose leaf margins, percurrent costa with one layer of guide cells and without ventral stereids, upper and middle laminal cells with elliptical papillae over the transverse walls between two immediately adjacent cells and basal laminal cells not differentiated from the median cells. Our morphological analyses and molecular results, based on DNA sequences of ITS, rps4 and trnM-trnV, conﬁrm that D. changbaiensis is revealed to be sister to D. daqingii J. Kou, R.H. Zander & C. Feng. This new species is compared with similar species and its phylogenetic position and ecology are discussed.
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

﻿A new species of Sedum (Crassulaceae) from Mount Danxia in Guangdong, China
Sedum jinglanii, a new species of Crassulaceae from Mount Danxia in Guangdong, China, is described and illustrated. Phylogenetic analysis based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nrDNA suggests that the new species belongs to S. sect. Sedum sensu Fu and Ohba (2001) in the “Flora of China”, and is sister to a clade comprising S. alfredi and S. emarginatum with high support values (SH-aLRT = 84, UFBS = 95) but is distantly related to S. baileyi. The new species is morphologically similar to S. alfredi but it can be distinguished from the latter in its opposite leaves (vs. alternate leaves), its usually wider leaves (0.4–1.2 cm vs. 0.2–0.6 cm), its usually shorter petals (3.4–4.5 mm vs. 4–6 mm), its shorter nectar scales (0.4–0.5 mm vs. 0.5–1 mm), its shorter carpels (1.5–2.6 mm vs. 4–5 mm), and its shorter styles (0.6–0.9 mm vs. 1–2 mm). The new species can be easily distinguished from S. emarginatum which both have opposite leaves by its short, erect or ascending rhizome (vs. long and prostrate rhizome in the latter), shorter petals (3.4–4.5 mm vs. 6–8 mm) and shorter carpels (1.5–2.6 mm vs. 4–5 mm). It can also be easily distinguished from S. baileyi by its short, erect or ascending rhizome (vs. long and prostrate rhizome) and its shorter style (0.6–0.9 mm vs. 1–1.5 mm).
["Danxia landscape"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

﻿Primula pingbaensis (Primulaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Primula pingbaensis Na Zhang, X.Q.Jiang & Z.K.Wu, a new species of Primulaceae from Gaofeng Mountain of Pingba county, Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. Morphological evidence supports P. pingbaensis as a member of P. sect. Petiolares on account of scape elongating, pedicels conspicuously thickening in fruit, and its capsule cracking irregularly round the top and crumbling away. Amongst the members of subsect. Davidii, the new species is characterized by having a uniquely smooth leaf blade due to inconspicuously raised veinlets and homostylous flowers with the style usually extending beyond the anthers. The distribution, phenology and conservation status of the new species are also provided.

﻿Hedyotis konhanungensis (Rubiaceae): A new species from the central highlands of Vietnam
A new species of Hedyotis L. (Rubiaceae), Hedyotis konhanungensis B.H. Quang, T.A. Le, K.S. Nguyen & Neupane, is described and illustrated from the central highlands of Vietnam based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. The new species belongs to the morphologically diverse tribe Spermacoceae (ca. 1000 species) of the family Rubiaceae, which is represented by 70–80 species in Vietnam. The phylogenetic analysis, based on four DNA regions (ITS, ETS, petD, rps 16), confirms the new species’ placement within the genus Hedyotis – one of the largest genera in the tribe, comprising ca. 180 species across Asia and the Pacific. Hedyotis konhanungensis is morphologically distinct from all southeastern Asian Hedyotis L. in its set of traits such as leaf type (shape and thickness), growth habit, and floral parts (color of inflorescence axis and the shape of calyx lobes). The new species shows similarities with Hedyotis shenzhenensis, H. shiuyingiae, and H. yangchunensis from China in its herbaceous habit, fleshy ovate leaf blades, and dark purple floral parts, but it is phylogenetically distinct and can be distinguished from them by the following combination of morphological traits: habit with slightly smaller stature (<25 cm), broadly ovate or deltoid stipules with cuspidate apex and entire margin, and ovate or nearly ovate calyx lobes.
["Gia Lai Province"]

﻿Study of terrestrial diatoms in corticolous assemblages from deciduous trees in Central Europe with descriptions of two new Luticola D.G.Mann taxa
Although many studies have examined the algae associated with various habitats in tree trunks, the diatoms in these environments are still poorly studied. Studies of corticolous algae mainly focus on green algae and cyanobacteria, which are usually immediately visible, while diatoms are mostly overlooked or not reported. During the research, 143 species of diatoms were identified, including two new representatives of the genus Luticola: L. bryophila sp. nov. with relatively large central area and short distal raphe endings and L. confusa sp. nov. characterized by the presence of small depressions on central raphe endings. Both are described herein based on light and scanning electron microscopy observations and compared to similar taxa based on literature data. Basic morphological data for almost all the diatom taxa are noted, and their habitat requirements, and photographic documentation are also presented. The present research showed that the occurrence of diatom assemblages on tree trunks is influenced by various factors like host tree species, the area where the host tree grows, and the availability of suitable microhabitats within the trunk. However, the species composition of this assemblages depends mainly on the tree species.
["Bacillariophyceae"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

﻿Lysimachia fenghwaiana (Primulaceae), a new species from Hunan Province, China
A new species, Lysimachia fenghwaiana G.Hao & H.F.Yan (Primulaceae), from Hunan Province, China, is described and illustrated. This new species belongs to Lysimachia subgen. Lysimachia sect. Nummularia and is morphologically similar to L. crista-galli and L. carinata, but is distinctive in its leaf shape and arrangement of flowers. It can be further distinguished from L. crista-galli by the absence of calyx lobule spur, and from L. carinata by the black glandular striates in the corolla lobes, rather than punctate.
["central China"]

﻿Aeschynanthus smaragdinus F.Wen & J.Q.Qin (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Yunnan Province, China
Aeschynanthus smaragdinus F.Wen & J.Q.Qin, a new species of Gesneriaceae from the monsoon rain forest in Mangbang township, Tengchong City, Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated here. It morphologically resembles A. chiritoides C.B.Clarke in size, shape and hairs on the leaf blades. But it can easily be distinguished from the latter by the green corolla limb with brownish-red to maroon lower lobes. At the same time, the hairs of the pedicel and calyx lobes, the length of the staminode and the size of the seed grain can also help distinguish both. It is provisionally assessed as Data Deficient (DD), according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, because field surveys for this new taxon have not been completed.
["Aeschynanthus chiritoides"]

﻿Taxonomic notes on the genus Deutzia (Hydrangeaceae) from Central China
Based on examination of syntype specimens deposited at P, the lectotype for the name Deutzia setchuenensis Franch. is designated here. By consulting literature and specimen records, the type locality of D. setchuenensis var. longidentata Rehder, ‘Chin-Ting shan’ in the protologue is likely a misspelling of ‘Chiuting shan’ which is now called Jiuding shan located in southern Mao county, Sichuan province. In addition, a new variety, Deutzia setchuenensis var. macrocarpa Q.L.Gan, Z.Y.Li & S.Z.Xu from western Hubei, Central China, is described and illustrated. It differs from other varieties of D. setchuenensis Franch. by the orange anthers, broader outer filaments, obtuse inner filaments, and larger fruits.
["Deutzia setchuenensis"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

﻿Ranunculus luanchuanensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from Henan, China
Ranunculus luanchuanensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from Laojun Shan in Luanchuan county, Henan province, central China, is here illustrated and described. It is morphologically similar to R. limprichtii in having 3-lobed and subreniform basal leaves, 3-lobed cauline leaves, and small flowers with reflexed and caducous sepals, but differs by having slender and basally slightly thickened roots (vs. fusiform), prostrate stems (vs. erect), obliquely ovoid and glabrous carpels and achenes (vs. widely ovoid and puberulous), longer styles in the carpels (ca. 1.2 mm vs. 0.6–0.8 mm) and achenes (ca. 1.8 mm vs. 0.6–0.8 mm), and glabrous receptacles (vs. sparsely puberulous). Ranunculus luanchuanensis, currently known only from its type locality, is geographically isolated from R. limprichtii, a species widely distributed in Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan, Xizang (Tibet) and Yunnan, China. The distribution map of this new species and its putative closest ally, R. limprichtii, is also provided.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿A new, disjunct species of Bahiana (Euphorbiaceae, Acalyphoideae): Phytogeographic connections between the seasonally dry tropical forests of Peru and Brazil, and a review of spinescence in the family
Bahiana is expanded from 1 to 2 species with the description of B. occidentalis K. Wurdack, sp. nov. as a new endemic of the seasonally dry tropical forests (SDTFs) of Peru. The disjunct distribution of Bahiana with populations of B. occidentalis on opposite sides of the Andes in northwestern Peru (Tumbes, San Martín) and B. pyriformis in eastern Brazil (Bahia) adds to the phytogeographic links among the widely scattered New World SDTFs. Although B. occidentalis remains imperfectly known due to the lack of flowering collections, molecular phylogenetic results from four loci (plastid matK, rbcL, and trnL-F; and nuclear ITS) unite the two species as does gross vegetative morphology, notably their spinose stipules, and androecial structure. Spinescence in Euphorbiaceae was surveyed and found on vegetative organs in 25 genera, which mostly have modified sharp branch tips. Among New World taxa, spines that originate from stipule modifications only occur in Bahiana and Acidocroton, while the intrastipular spines of Philyra are of uncertain homologies.

﻿A taxonomic revision of Keraunea, including three new species and its phylogenetic realignment with Ehretiaceae (Boraginales)
Keraunea is an enigmatic genus of lianescent shrubs endemic to Brazil and found within the Caatinga and Mata Atlântica phytogeographic regions. When first published, Keraunea was included in the Convolvulaceae and there has been considerable recent disagreement about its true family placement on the Angiosperm tree of life. Based on further assessment of morphology and a new comprehensively-sampled combined phylogenetic analysis of nuclear and plastid genes from recently published DNA sequence data, we settle the position of the genus within the Ehretiaceae as sister to the Australian genus Halgania Gaudich. and provide an expanded family description. We recognize five species within Keraunea, three of them newly described here: K. brasiliensis Cheek & Simão-Bianchini, K. bullata Moonlight & D.B.O.S.Cardoso, sp. nov., K. capixaba Lombardi, K. confusa Moonlight & D.B.O.S.Cardoso, sp. nov. and K. velutina Moonlight & D.B.O.S.Cardoso, sp. nov. We also provide a full taxonomic revision of the genus, including a key, descriptions, map of geographical distribution and provisional IUCN threat assessments for all species.
["Boraginales"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Paraphlomis yingdeensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Guangdong (China)
Paraphlomis yingdeensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from the limestone area in northern Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. Phylogenetic analyses, based on two nuclear DNA regions (ITS and ETS) and three plastid DNA regions (rpl32-trnL, rps16 and trnL-trnF), suggest that P. yingdeensis represents a distinct species in Paraphlomis. Morphologically, P. yingdeensis is similar to P. foliata subsp. montigena and P. nana, but can be distinguished from the former by its densely villous lamina and calyx, not decurrent base of lamina and bristle-like-acuminate apex of calyx teeth, and distinguished from the latter by its significantly taller plant (15–20 cm vs. 1–5 cm) and larger lamina (6.2–16.5 × 4–11.5 vs. 2–7 × 1.5–4 cm), densely villous stem, lamina and calyx and yellow corolla.
["endemics"]
["Libraries, Manuscripts, and Books", "Archaeological and Historical Studies", "Historical Art and Architecture Studies"]

﻿Epimedium longnanense (Berberidaceae), a new species from Gansu, China
Epimedium longnanense, a new species of Epimedium (Berberidaceae) from Longnan Prefecture, Gansu Province, China, is here proposed and illustrated. E. longnanense has large flowers with petals possessing long spur and obvious basal lamina, and thus should be grouped into series Davidianae. The species closely resembles E. flavum of ser. Davidianae in morphology. However, it can be easily distinguished by its elongated rhizome (vs. compact), trifoliolate leaves (vs. five leaflets, sometimes trifoliolate), pale pink or purplish-red inner sepals with 6–8 × 2–3 mm (vs. pale sulphur-yellow, ca. 11 × 4 mm).
["Epimedium"]
["Medicinal Plant Pharmacodynamics Research", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Phytochemical compounds biological activities"]

﻿Ranunculus maoxianensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from northwestern Sichuan, China, with an emended description of R. chongzhouensis, the putative closest ally of the new species
Ranunculus maoxianensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from Jiuding Shan in Maoxian county, northwestern Sichuan province, China, is here illustrated and described. The species is morphologically similar to R. chongzhouensis, a species also occurring in Sichuan, in having reniform leaves and puberulous receptacles, carpels and achenes, but differs by having leaves adaxially puberulous with shorter appressed hairs 0.16‒0.28 mm long (vs. longer appressed hairs 0.55‒0.85 mm long), larger flowers (1.8‒2 cm vs. 1.4‒1.6 cm in diameter), larger (8‒10 × 5.5‒6.5 mm vs. 6‒7 × 4.5‒5 mm) and widely obovate petals (vs. obovate), more numerous stamens (35‒55 vs. 12‒18), and subglobose gynoecium and aggregate fruit (vs. ellipsoid). The two species are also different in chromosome number and chromosome morphology. Ranunculus chongzhouensis has a karyotype of 2n = 2x = 16 = 10m + 6sm while R. maoxianensis has a karyotype of 2n = 4x = 32 = 16m + 16sm. An emended description of R. chongzhouensis is provided, and its geographical distribution is largely extended.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Gene Expression Analysis", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

﻿Ranunculus jiguanshanicus (Ranunculaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Ranunculus jiguanshanicus (Ranunculaceae), a new species from Chongzhou in Sichuan province, China, is here described and illustrated. The new species is easily distinguishable from other Chinese members of the genus by an array of characters, including small stature, glabrous and prostrate stems, 3-foliolate leaves with obvious petiolules (3–5 mm long), unequally 3-sected leaflets, lanceolate to linear ultimate leaflet segments, small flowers (5.2–6 mm in diameter), and long styles in the carpels and achenes (ca. 0.8 mm long). A distribution map of this new species is also provided.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant responses to water stress", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Astragalus bashanensis (Leguminosae), a new species from Central China
A new species Astragalus bashanensis, from western Hubei Province, Central China is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to Astragalus sinicus and A. wulingensis, but differs from both by its spreading pubescent indumentum on stems and petioles, longer petioles, white bracts, whitish or yellow corolla, longer claw of the keel-petal, hairy pods and smaller seeds.
["Astragalus bashanensis"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis"]

﻿Allium sunhangii – a new species from section Brevidentia F.O.Khass. & Iengal. (Amaryllidaceae) from Southern Pamir-Alay, Uzbekistan
A new species, Allium sunhangii sp. nov., of the Middle Asiatic section Brevidentia F.O.Khass. & Iengal., (subgenus Allium, tribe Allioideae, Amaryllidaceae) is described. The species is a small plant from the Babatag Ridge in the Surkhandarya province of Uzbekistan. It is morphologically close to Allium brevidens Vved. in having initially dark violet filaments and three-cuspidate inner filaments, but differs by its small size and visibly unequal tepals as well as in the phylogenetic analysis based on ITS data.
["Allium"]
["Garlic and Onion Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Commelina danxiaensis (Commelinaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China
Commelina danxiaensis (Commelinaceae), a remarkable new species from Mount Danxia, Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. This species is similar to C. communis in inflorescences and flowers but readily distinguishable in its nearly erect stems, larger flowers, and different petal colouration.
["Commelinales"]

﻿Licaria ramiroi (Lauraceae), a new species from Western Mexico
Licaria ramiroi, a species endemic to western Mexico, is described and illustrated. The ascription of the new species to Licaria is analysed. It is classified in the subgen. Licaria and is most closely related to L. triandra and L. siphonantha from which it differs by its glabrous vegetative and floral structures, stamens mainly with free anthers and the inner wall of the receptacle sericeous. According to the IUCN criteria, the species is classified as critically endangered.
["cloud forest"]

﻿Glossoloma magenticristatum (Gesneriaceae), a new species from the Cordillera Oriental of the Colombian Andes
A narrowly endemic new species of Glossoloma is described from the Cordillera Oriental of the northern Andes, in the Colombian departments of Caquetá and Huila. Glossoloma magenticristatum J.L.Clark, D.Hoyos & Clavijo, sp. nov. differs from most other congeners by a habit that is usually epiphytic with elongate scandent subwoody shoots, the presence of a magenta corolla tube, and a creased calyx formed by tightly appressed adjacent lobes. A brief summary of Gesneriaceae diversity in the Colombia departments of Caquetá and Huila is discussed with an emphasis on the old highway between Florencia and Guadalupe. The conservation status of G. magenticristatum is assessed as Endangered (EN) based on IUCN Criteria.

﻿Primula wolongensis (Primulaceae), a new species of the primrose from Sichuan, China
This paper describes and illustrates a new species of Primulaceae, Primula wolongensis sp. nov. from Wolong National Nature Reserve in Sichuan Province, China. It is very rare and currently only known from its type locality. The new species belongs to subsection Chartacea of the section Petiolares on account of lacking bud scales at flowering, being efarinose and having distinct petiolate leaves with more or less rounded lamina. The new species can be differentiated from other members of the subsection by leaf blade margin dentate, and leaf veins which are not raised, scape shorter than or equal to pedicels, yellow flowers and location of stamens of the corolla tube at thrum flower. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on nuclear ribosome internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) demonstrated that P. wolongensis was sister to subgen. Auriculastrum. Primula wolongensis is currently known from a single location in Wolong Town, and its conservation status is assessed as Data Deficient (DD).
["Hengduan Mountains"]

﻿Gelidocalamus zixingensis (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Arundinarieae), a new species from southern China revealed by morphological and molecular evidence
The genus Gelidocalamus T. H. Wen, endemic to southern China, is a small but taxonomically problematic genus of Arundinarieae (Poaceae, Bambusoideae). During field work, a population of Gelidocalamus from Zixing, Hunan, was discovered, appearing to be distinct from our previously identified collection. Comparisons of the population of Zixing were performed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a plastid genome-based phylogeny. Morphologically, it was mostly similar to G. multifolius, but differed by culm leaf erect with densely white pubescence, apical branch sheath much longer than the internodes and foliage leaf larger. Phylogenetically, the new species was well-supported as a sister to the clade of G. multifolius + G. tessellatus, and the above three taxa were clustered in the Shibataea clade (IV) of Arundinarieae. Thus, the new species, formally named as Gelidocalamus zixingensis W.G.Zhang, G.Y.Yang & C.K.Wang, was described and illustrated herein.
["Gramineae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

﻿Raphiocarpus taygiangensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from central Vietnam
Raphiocarpus taygiangensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae family discovered in Tay Giang District, Quang Nam Province, Central Vietnam, is here described and illustrated. The new species is diagnosed by the combination of its stem up to 2 m long, sericeous hairs on young stem, leaf petiole and adaxial mid-vein, sparsely and minutely serrate leaf margin, axillary inflorescence spreading along stem, sparsely long gland-tipped hairs on peduncle, pedicel, calyx, outside corolla and pistil, calyx 5-disparted from base, purplish white flower with purple stripes inside corolla tube, and dish-shaped stigma formed by 2 semi-orbicular lobes horizontally expanding. Distinct features of the new species and its morphologically closest congener, Rhaphiocarpus axillaris, are compared and discussed. The conservation status of the described species is estimated as Vulnerable (VU D2) according to the IUCN Red List Criteria.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geological formations and processes"]

﻿Yushania tomentosa (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new combination from Guangxi
Sasa tomentosa is transferred to the genus Yushania following a reassessment based on a new collection with pachymorph and long-necked rhizomes from its type locality in Guangxi, China. Morphologically, it is most similar to Yushania doupengshanensis, but differs in culm, branch complement and foliage leaf characters. A revised description of its morphology and color photos are also provided.
["bamboo"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Bamboo properties and applications"]

﻿Begonia fimbristipula subsp. siamensis (sect. Diploclinium, Begoniaceae), a new taxon of the megadiverse genus endemic to Thailand
The genus Begonia has not only been recognised to be one of the mega-diverse plant genera but also as one found to comprise many undiscovered species. In particular, the increase of extensive field surveys in tropical regions of Southeast Asia has added to the discovery of many new species that are often found only in a few localities. In this study, the new taxon Begonia fimbristipula subsp. siamensis subsp. nov. from Thailand is described. The Thailand accessions are highly similar in their morphology to accessions of B. fimbristipula from southern China but differ in their tuber shape, peduncle trichomes, petiole trichomes and number of female tepals. The new taxon has been found only in the northern parts of Thailand occurring at elevations above 1,300 meters. The new findings not only contribute to our knowledge of the plant diversity of Thailand but provide also critical information contributing to the protection of this species. In China, this species is endangered which is of special concern given its utilisation as a medical herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Considering IUCN Red List Categories, the new subspecies is considered to be Vulnerable. The disjunct distribution of the two subspecies of B. fimbristipula encourages urgently needed comparative taxonomic studies across the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

﻿Vascular plant biodiversity of Katannilik Territorial Park, Kimmirut and vicinity on Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada: an annotated checklist of an Arctic flora
The Arctic ecozone is undergoing a rapid transformation in response to climate change. Establishing a baseline of current Arctic biodiversity is necessary to be able to track changes in species diversity and distribution over time. Here, we report a vascular plant floristic study of Katannilik Territorial Park, Kimmirut and vicinity within Circumpolar Arctic Bioclimate Subzone D on southern Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada. We compiled a dataset of 1596 collections gathered in the study area throughout the last century, including 838 we made in 2012. The vascular flora comprises 35 families, 98 genera, 211 species, two nothospecies and seven infraspecific taxa. We newly recorded 51 taxa in 22 families in the study area: Erigeron eriocephalus, Taraxacum holmenianum (Asteraceae), Draba arctica, D. fladnizensis, D. lactea (Brassicaceae), Campanula rotundifolia (Campanulaceae), Arenaria longipedunculata, Honckenya peploides subsp. diffusa, Sabulina rossii, Silene uralensis subsp. uralensis, Viscaria alpina (Caryophyllaceae), Carex brunnescens subsp. brunnescens, C. krausei, C. microglochin, C. subspathacea, C. williamsii, Eriophorum scheuchzeri subsp. arcticum (Cyperaceae), Andromeda polifolia, Orthilia secunda subsp. obtusata (Ericaceae), Oxytropis podocarpa (Fabaceae), Luzula groenlandica (Juncaceae), Triglochin palustris (Juncaginaceae), Utricularia ochroleuca (Lentibulariaceae), Huperzia continentalis (Lycopodiaceae), Montia fontana (Montiaceae), Corallorhiza trifida, Platanthera obtusata subsp. obtusata (Orchidaceae), Hippuris lanceolata, H. vulgaris, Plantago maritima (Plantaginaceae), Calamagrostis neglecta subsp. groenlandica, C. purpurascens, Festuca prolifera var. lasiolepis, F. rubra subsp. rubra, F. rubra subsp. arctica, Hordeum jubatum subsp. jubatum, Leymus mollis subsp. mollis, L. mollis subsp. villosissimus, Puccinellia vaginata (Poaceae), Primula egaliksensis (Primulaceae), Cryptogramma stelleri (Pteridaceae), Coptidium × spitsbergense (Ranunculaceae), Potentilla crantzii, P. hyparctica subsp. hyparctica, Rubus chamaemorus, Sibbaldia procumbens (Rosaceae), Salix fuscescens (Salicaceae), Micranthes foliolosa, M. nivalis, M. tenuis (Saxifragaceae) and Woodsia alpina (Woodsiaceae). We recorded 196 taxa in Katannilik Territorial Park (191 species, three infraspecific taxa and two nothospecies); 145 of these taxa are first records for the park. We recorded 170 taxa in Kimmirut and vicinity (166 species, three infraspecific taxa and one nothospecies) in Kimmirut and vicinity; 15 of these taxa are first records for Kimmirut and vicinity. All study area species are native, except two grasses that grew in Kimmirut: F. rubra subsp. rubra, which may have been seeded and Hordeum jubatum subsp. jubatum, of unknown origin. We summarize the distribution on Baffin Island for each taxon recorded in the study area, including several unpublished southern Baffin Island records.
["Canadian Heritage River"]
["Climate change and permafrost", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

﻿Solanum scalarium (Solanaceae), a newly-described dioecious bush tomato from Judbarra/Gregory National Park, Northern Territory, Australia
A new species of functionally dioecious bush tomato of Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum is described. Solanum scalarium Martine & T.M.Williams, sp. nov., is a member of the taxonomically challenging “Kimberley dioecious clade” in Australia and differs from other species in the group in its spreading decumbent habit and conspicuously prickly male floral rachis. The species is so far known from one site in Judbarra/Gregory National Park in the Northern Territory. Ex situ crosses and confirmation of inaperturate pollen grains produced in morphologically cosexual flowers indicate that these flowers are functionally female and the species is functionally dioecious. The scientific name reflects the ladder-like appearance of the inflorescence rachis armature of male individuals, the stone staircase that provides access to the type locality at the Escarpment Lookout Walk, and the importance of maintaining equitable and safe access to outdoor spaces. The common name Garrarnawun Bush Tomato is proposed in recognition of the lookout point at this site, a traditional meeting place of the Wardaman and Nungali-Ngaliwurru peoples whose lands overlap in this area.

﻿Aphyllorchis periactinantha (Orchidaceae, Neottieae), a new mycoheterotrophic species from peninsular Thailand
A new orchid species from southern Thailand, Aphyllorchis periactinantha, is described and illustrated. The novelty is characterized by the subactinomophic flowers, the concave labellum, not divided into hypochile and epichile, the reduced staminodes, the shallowly bilobed stigma and the semicircular rostellum. A key to the species of Aphyllorchis in Thailand is updated.
["achlorophyllous orchid"]

Lysimachia coriacea (Primulaceae, Myrsinoideae), a new species from Chongqing, China
A new species, Lysimachia coriacea, from Chongqing, China, is described and illustrated. It is assigned to subgen. Lysimachia sect. Nummularia ser. Paridiformes and resembles L. paridiformis var. stenophylla, but is characterised by smaller leathery leaves with black glandular striations near the margin. It is also similar to L. nanpingensis in its two to three pairs of leaves sub-whorled at the stem apices, but differs by smaller leathery leaves and densely glandular stem, petiole and pedicel, and calyx lobes with sparse black glandular stripes.
["field expedition"]

﻿Quercus mangdenensis, a new species of Quercus (Fagaceae) from Kon Tum Province, Vietnam
Quercus mangdenensis Binh & Ngoc, sp. nov. (Fagaceae) is newly described from Mang Den Town in the central highland of Vietnam. The new species is characterized by lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate leaves with entire margin, 1–5-fruited infructescence, larger fruit size 6–10.5 cm long, broadly bowl-shaped cupules enclosing 1/5 of the nut, bracts of cupule entire and arranged in 5–7 rings, and cylindrical-ellipsoid and basally flat nuts 4.5–7.5 cm long. Quercus mangdenensis is morphologically similar to Q. bidoupensis Binh & Ngoc and Q. kontumensis A.Camus in having similar leaf shape, cuneate leaf base, and bracts arrangement in cupules. However, it differs from Q. bidoupensis and Q. kontumensis by cupules broadly bowl-shaped, much larger fruits, cylindrical-ellipsoid nut shape, and cupule enclosing 1/5 of the nuts. A description, photographs, and preliminary species conservation status of the new species are also provided.
["Fagales"]

﻿Microchirita minor (Gesneriaceae), a new species from north-western Vietnam
Microchirita minor (Gesneriaceae), a new species from the limestone area in Son La Province, north-western Vietnam, is described here. The new species resembles M. hamosa, but it differs by the combination of corolla tube shape, stamens number and the length of pistil. Detailed morphological description, together with photographic plates, information on phenology, distribution, ecology and preliminary conservation status of the new species are presented.

﻿Three new species of Elatostema (Urticaceae) from Thailand
Three new species of Elatostema (Urticaceae) from Thailand, E. kaweesakii Triyutth. & L.F.Fu, sp. nov., E. rubricaule Triyutth. & L.F.Fu, sp. nov. and E. saxatile Triyutth. & L.F.Fu, sp. nov., are newly described and illustrated. These new species can be distinguished by the presence of rhizome. Elatostema kaweesakii is similar to E. atroviride. Elatostema kaweesakii is a lithophyte growing in limestone crevices. It differs from E. atroviride by its large swollen rhizome, glabrous stem, glabrous receptacle, number of tepal in staminate flower, absence of tepal in pistillate flower, presence of staminodes in pistillate flower and smooth achene. Elatostema rubricaule and E. saxatile are found on sandstone habitats. They have distinct flattened and disk-like rhizome. Elatostema rubricaule is distinguished by its distinct sulcate and reddish stem with flattened and disc-like rhizome and chartaceous leaves with entire margin. Elatostema saxatile resembles E. bulbiferum but differs by its flattened and disc-like rhizome, acute leaf apex, glabrous receptacle in pistillate inflorescences, presence of staminodes in pistillate flower, and its sandstone habitat. Descriptions, distribution, ecological and phenological data are provided.
["Flora of Thailand"]

﻿A new species of Diplostephium (Asteraceae, Astereae) from the Atacama Desert, Chile
A new species, Diplostephium paposanum S.T.Ibáñez & Muñoz-Schick, sp. nov., is described for Chile, extending the southern distribution of the genus. Its position within the genus was confirmed by morphological and molecular data, discussed here. The new species was found in a coastal environment, new to the genus, and is geographically far removed from the other Chilean species, which are from the Andes. The formation where it occurs, known as lomas, acts as a biodiversity refuge in hyperarid environments. The presence of D. paposanum in this environment contributes to the evidence of a floristic connection between the Atacama Desert and the Neotropical Andes.
["Antofagasta"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

﻿Centaurea lovricii, a new species of ﻿C. sect. ﻿Centaurea (Asteraceae) from Croatia
A new species, Centaurea lovricii, is described and illustrated from the island of Vis (Dalmatia, Croatia). It occurs on northwest-facing calcareous cliffs near the sea, where it grows with several other rare endemic species. Centaurea lovricii is morphologically similar to C. glaberrima and C. divergens of C. sect. Centaurea, from which it differs in having more succulent leaves with larger and less incised leaflets, bigger capitula, larger phyllaries with more developed appendages and denser and undulate fimbriae, larger florets, bigger achenes, and longer pappus. Its morphological features, distribution, ecology, conservation status and taxonomic affinities are examined. In addition, a new iconography and lectotypification for C. glaberrima and C. divergens is provided.
["Adriatic region"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

﻿Impatiens chenmoui (Balsaminaceae), a new species from southern Yunnan, China
Impatiens chenmoui (Balsaminaceae), a new species from southern Yunnan, China, was described and illustrated based on morphological and molecular evidence. This new species is morphologically most similar to Impatiens oblongata Ruchis. & Niet, but can be distinguished by 7–9 pairs of leaf veins, glabrous perianth, obovate upper petal, and capsule with trichome.

﻿Argostemma ehuangzhangense (Rubiaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China
Argostemma ehuangzhangense, a new Rubiaceae species from E’huangzhang Nature Reserve, Guangdong Province, China, is here described and illustrated. A morphological comparison between the new species and its putative relatives, A. lamxayanum, A. laotica and A. verticillatum, is presented. The new species is mostly similar to A. laotica, but they can be distinguished from each other since Argostemma ehuangzhangense presents solitary flower (vs. 2-flowered inflorescences), flower lobes 4 (vs. 5) and anthers opening by longitudinal slits (vs. apical pores). In a preliminary IUCN Red List status of Argostemma ehuangzhangense this species is assigned as Vulnerable (VU).
["Argostemma ehuangzhangense"]

﻿Begonia parvibracteata, a new species in ﻿Begonia sect. ﻿Platycentrum (Begoniaceae) from Guangxi of China, based on morphological and molecular evidence
The previously reported begonias in a limestone forest of Guangxi mainly belong to Begonia sect. Coelocentrum Irmscher. In this article, we described and illustrated a new species in sect. Platycentrum (Klotzsch) A.DC., Begonia parvibracteata X.X.Feng, R.K.Li & Z.X.Liu, which was discovered in a karst forest of south-western Guangxi. The begonia shows high morphological similarity to B. subhowii S.H. Huang and B. psilophylla Irmscher, but differs from the latter two in its narrower oblique-ovate asymmetric leaf blade, 4 (occasionally 6) tepals of pistillate flower and smaller membranous inflorescence bracts. Molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS sequence data, supports the new species as monophyletic and distinct from B. subhowii and B. psilophylla. Considering its narrow distribution and the disturbance of human activities, the conservation status of new taxon is evaluated as “Vulnerable” (VU B1, B2 ab (i, iv, v), D2) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Eriobotrya crassifolia (Rosaceae), a new species from Yunnan Province, China
The new species Eriobotrya crassifolia, collected from Yunnan Province, China, is characterised and illustrated. A phylogeny based on chloroplast genomes supported its closest affinity with E. tengyuehensis, while a phylogeny based on 197 single-copy nuclear genes supported its closest affinity with E. fragrans and E. deflexa. Morphologically, however, it resembles E. angustissima. Nevertheless, it can be easily distinguished from E. angustissima by its abaxially retroflexed and sharply serrate leaf margins, densely rusty tomentose inflorescences, and oblong or elliptic leaves.
["Eriobotrya"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Microbial Metabolism and Applications"]

﻿Oreocharis polyneura, a new species of Gesneriaceae from southern Yunnan, China
Oreocharis polyneura, a new species from southern Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to O. rhytidophylla by having more obvious lateral veins forming a crosslinked network on the adaxial surface of leaf blades, but can be distinguished by having more lateral veins (12–15 pairs vs. 7–9 pairs) of leaf blades, shorter corolla tubes (the length ratio of corolla tube to corolla lobes = 1.2–2.9 vs. 3.4–6) and shorter pistils (6–8 mm long vs. 27–30 mm long). In addition, a detailed morphological description, a photographic illustration, the distribution and phenology of the new species are presented.
["flora of Yunnan"]

﻿A new species of Hibiscus (Malvaceae, Malvoideae) from Guyana
Hibiscus marioniae Dorr, sp. nov. is described and illustrated. It evidently is restricted to central Guyana, northeast of the Kanuku Mountains near the Rewa River, a tributary of the Rupununi River. The new species is most similar morphologically to H. amazonicus Fryxell, which was described from Amazonas, Brazil.
["Guyana"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿Artemisia calcicola (Asteraceae, Anthemideae), a new species from karst region in Guizhou, southwestern China
Artemisia calcicola (Asteraceae, Anthemideae), a new species from karst region in Shibing county, Guizhou province, southwestern China, is described and illustrated. The species can be readily assigned to A. subg. Artemisia in having fertile disk florets and glabrous receptacles. Within this subgenus, A. calcicola is distinguished by having (2- or) 3-pinnatipartite leaves and narrowly ellipsoid involucres 0.9–1.3 mm in diameter. It resembles A. annua to some extent, but differs immediately by the plant duration, stem and leaf indumentum, and involucre shape and size. A detailed description and distribution map of this species are also provided herein.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿ Coptis huanjiangensis, a new species of Ranunculaceae from Guangxi, China
Coptis huanjiangensis, a new species of Ranunculaceae distributed in the valleys of Jiuwanshan National Natural Reserve in Huanjiang county (Guangxi, China), is described and illustrated for the first time based on morphological and plastome sequences data. It differs from C. chinensis, C. deltoidei and C. omeiensis mainly by having notably longer petiole, scape, bigger leaf blade with lobes obviously remote and robust rhizomes without stolons. Phylogenetic analyses support that C. huanjiangensis is sister to C. omeiensis and C. deltoidei.

﻿Oreocharis qianyuensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Southwest, China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Oreocharis qianyuensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Southwest, China, is described and illustrated based on morphological comparisons and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Phylotranscriptomic analyses of the new species in the context of a comprehensive phylogeny with dense sampling of 88% (111/126) of all species of the genus indicated that the new species was most closely-related to O. fargesii. The new species is morphologically similar to O. fargesii and O. nanchuanica in the shape, color and structure of flowers and the number of stamens, but differs in the leaf blade shape, margin and the indumentum characters of the inflorescence. Its morphological relationship with similar species is discussed, the detailed descriptions, colour photographs, distribution, as well as the IUCN threatened status based on the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria are also provided.
["Flora of China"]

﻿Three new species of Polycarpaea (Caryophyllaceae) from Kerala, South India
Three new species of Polycarpaea, Polycarpaea barbellata, P. ebracteata and P. psammophila, are described from the Palakkad district of Kerala, India. The new species are allied to P. corymbosa and P. aurea but can be visibly distinguished by unique character combinations, viz. shape of sepal, petal, bract and bracteole and seed morphology. Detailed descriptions along with illustrations and photographs are provided.
["Caryophyllales"]
["Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Hansenia trifoliolata, a new species (Apiaceae) from Shaanxi, China
Hansenia trifoliolata Q.P.Jiang & X.J.He (Apiaceae), is described as new from Shaanxi Province, northwest China. The mericarp features of H. trifoliolata resemble H. himalayensis and H. phaea and molecular phylogenetic analyses (combining ITS and plastid genomes data) suggest that H. trifoliolata is closely related to the group formed by H. oviformis and H. forbesii. The new species H. trifoliolata has unique 3-foliolate leaves and differ from other Hansenia species in its leaves, umbel numbers and size. A comprehensive description of H. trifoliolata is provided, including habitat environment and detailed morphological traits.
["Apiaceae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

﻿Wikstroemia fragrans (Thymelaeaceae, Daphneae), a new species from Mount Danxia, China based on morphological and molecular evidence
A new species, Wikstroemia fragrans (Thymelaeaceae, Daphneae), from Danxiashan National Park, Shaoguan, Guangdong of China is described and illustrated. It is similar to the sympatric W. trichotoma, but can be differentiated easily from the latter by its shorter racemose inflorescences, yellowish green calyx tube, and smaller leaves. It also resembles the allopatric W. fargesii, but differs from it by its strigose-pubescent ovary and disk scale that is 2- or 3-dentate apically. Phylogenetic analysis using the nuclear DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region revealed that W. fragrans falls within the Wikstroemia clade; based on current sampling, W. fragrans is closely-related to W. capitata. It is also the first species of Wikstroemia known to be endemic to the Danxia landform and is classified provisionally as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Danxia landform"]

﻿Morphological and molecular evidence gives insight into the taxonomic position of Peucedanum pubescens (Apiaceae, Selineae)
In this study, morphological and molecular evidences were combined to determine the taxonomic position of Peucedanum pubescens Hand.-Mazz. Morphologically, Peucedanum pubescens is similar to the species of the genus Ligusticopsis in having fibrous remnant sheaths at the stem base, pinnate and linear coexisted bracts, strongly compressed dorsally mericarps, filiform median and lateral ribs, winged marginal ribs, numerous vittae in each furrow and commissure, but can also be easily distinguished from members of Ligusticopsis by its hispid fruit and linear-lanceolate bracteoles. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on the single-copy protein-coding sequences (CDS) of plastomes and internal transcribed space (ITS) region showed that Peucedanum pubescens nested in the genus Ligusticopsis. As both morphological and molecular data supported the inclusion of Peucedanum pubescens within Ligusticopsis, the species is here transferred and the new combination, Ligusticopsis pubescens (Hand.-Mazz.) J.J.Deng, C.K.Liu & X.J.He, made.
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿An update on the taxonomy of Calamagrostis nagarum (Bor) G.Singh and its allies (Poaceae, Agrostidinae): morphometrics and micro-morphology
Calamagrostis nagarum, previously considered to be a poorly known species, has been reassessed taxonomically. It is a member of C. lahulensis-C. scabrescens complex and may be segregated by morphological characters such as the presence of pilose hairs on adaxial surface of leaf blades, spreading panicle branches, filiform awn and nerve prolongation of lemma. Besides, the micromorphology of adaxial surface of leaf blades, dorsal surface of glume and lemma differentiates Calamagrostis nagarum from its allies, C. lahulensis and C. scabrescens. It is known from Nagaland and Uttarakhand, India, and Bhutan. In this study, we have provided an emended description of the species, a discussion of its habitat and distribution, and taxonomic notes along with field photographs and photo plates for its correct identification. In addition, we also lectotypify the names C. lahulensis and C. scabrescens.
["Cool season grass"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant responses to water stress", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿A new species of Encelia (Compositae, Heliantheae, Enceliinae) from the southern Baja California Peninsula
Here, we describe and illustrate Encelia balandra sp. nov., a new species of Compositae from the Baja California Peninsula. It is rare and known only from the rocky hills around Puerto Balandra and Pichilingüe, inside the bay of La Paz, in the State of Baja California Sur, Mexico. We determine that this new species has affinities with Encelia, based on its suffruticose woody habit, neuter ray florets and compressed disc cypselae with a cleft apex. The taxonomic placement within Encelia is supported by nuclear ribosomal sequence data from two regions, ITS and ETS. We also present detailed photographs, a conservation assessment and a dichotomous key to the Encelia of the southern Baja California Peninsula. Finally, we discuss the uniqueness of Encelia balandra amongst peninsular Encelia and its potential significance for understanding the enigmatic biogeography of this ecologically important genus.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Paraphlomis hsiwenii (Lamiaceae), a new species from the limestone area of Guangxi, China
The indumentum of nutlets is shown to be of phylogenetic importance in previous molecular phylogenetic studies of Paraphlomis, a genus of Lamiaceae with approximately 30 species distributed mainly in southern China and Southeast Asia. Nearly half the species of Paraphlomis are known from limestone areas. In this study, we described and illustrated a new species, P. hsiwenii, from the karst mountain forests in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Our molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed that P. hsiwenii is recovered in a clade consisting of species with hairy nutlets. The new species is morphologically most similar to P. pagantha from the same clade, but they differ in the morphology of lamina bases, length of pedicels and calyces, as well as the morphology of upper corolla lips.
["Ajugoides"]

﻿Further clarification on Androsace mollis Hand.-Mazz. (Primulaceae), with a description of a new species of Androsace
The syntypes (H.R.E. Handel-Mazzetti 8896 and H.R.E. Handel-Mazzetti 9280) of Androsace mollis Hand.-Mazz. are identified as two separate taxa based on critical examinations of herbarium specimens and field investigation. While H.R.E. Handel-Mazzetti 8896 has been designated as the lectotype of A. mollis, we describe the other taxon, represented by H.R.E. Handel-Mazzetti 9280, as A. chimingiana Y.Xu & G.Hao sp. nov. The new species is morphologically similar to A. hookeriana Klatt and A. laxa C.M.Hu & Y.C.Yang but can be easily differentiated by its white corolla and obovate bracts.
["Androsace chimingiana"]

﻿Danxiaorchis mangdangshanensis (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae), a new species from central Fujian Province based on morphological and genomic data
Danxiaorchis mangdangshanensis, a new mycoheterotrophic species from Fujian Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to D. singchiana, but its callus of labellum is a less distinctive Y-shape with three auricles on the apex, four pollinia that are narrowly elliptic in shape and equal in size, and it lacks fine roots. The plastome of D. mangdangshanensis is highly degraded. Phylogenetic analyses distinguished D. mangdangshanensis from its congeners, D. singchiana and D. yangii, with strong support based on nrITS + matK and plastomes, respectively.
["Simulation Techniques and Applications", "Data Visualization and Analytics", "Distributed and Parallel Computing Systems"]

﻿ Primula surculosa (Primulaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
A new species, Primula surculosa, is described and illustrated. In gross morphology, it is clearly allied to section Petiolares and is most similar to P. taliensis from the group Taliensis, but is distinctive in its indumentum in the throat of the corolla tube, and the markedly stoloniferous habit.
["morphological characteristics"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

﻿Impatiens yunlingensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Impatiens yunlingensis S.X. Yu, Chang Y. Xia & J.H. Yu (Balsaminaceae), a species new to science discovered in Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated here, along with its phylogenetic position among other Impatiens species. Morphological, micro-morphological and molecular evidence is presented as an attestation of its novelty. Impatiens yunlingensis is similar to I. delavayi in having coarsely crenate leave margins, bracts in the upper part, ca. 4/5 length of the pedicels, saccate lower sepal with shallowly bifid spur, linear capsules, and elliptic-oblong, tuberculate seeds, but differs from I. delavayi with lateral sepals 4 (vs. 2), lateral united petal basal lobes subtriangular (vs. dolabriform), and seeds’ surface equipped with tubercular ornamentation mostly covered with grain shaped appendages (vs. glabrous and without grain shaped appendages on the top).

﻿Impatiens hambaeksanensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from South Korea
A new species Impatiens hambaeksanensis from Gangwon-do, South Korea, is described and illustrated, based on its morphology and distribution. I. hambaeksanensis is different from I. furcillata, another similar Impatiens species in South Korea, in some ways: I. hambaeksanensis possesses a serrate leaf margin with flat tooth tip, while I. furcillata possesses a crenate leaf margin with erect tooth tip; it has an erect inflorescence, while I. furcillata has a pendulous inflorescence; it has a smaller flower which is 2–2.6 cm long, while I. furcillata has a flower of 2.3–3.2 cm; the flower is white or pinkish-white with yellowish and purplish spots, while I. furcillata has a white lower sepal and pinkish-white lateral united petals with yellowish spots; the distal part of the lower sepal is mostly not coiled or rarely 1-coiled, while that of I. furcillata is never coiled; the spur tip is expanded, round and slightly biparted, while that of I. furcillata is expanded, ellipsoidal and clearly biparted. A taxonomic description, a holotype and photos of morphological characteristics of the new species are provided. A table which includes the morphological comparison and a geographical distribution map are presented as well.
["Gangwon-do"]

﻿ Polygonatum praecox (Asparagaceae), a new species from mid-eastern China revealed by morphological and molecular evidence
A new species, Polygonatum praecox Y.F.Hu & J.W.Shao (Asparagaceae), is described and illustrated. This species is similar to P. cyrtonema, P. odoratum and P. caulialatum, but can be distinguished from P. cyrtonema by its racemose inflorescence, cylindrical hairless filaments and apex without a retrorse spur; from P. odoratum by its stout moniliform rhizome, straight stem and longer (1.7–2.2 cm long) floral tube; and from P. caulialatum by its upper part straight stem, yellowish-green corolla, lobes excurved and earlier flowering. The complete chloroplast genome of this new species is 155,115–155,256 bp in length. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that P. praecox is not genetically related to the above three morphological similar species, but is closely related to the two European species (P. multiforum and P. latifolium). This species is relatively common in mid-eastern China and has previously been confused with P. cyrtonema. As its wild resources have decreased in recent years due to over-exploitation for medicinal or edible purposes, we classify it as Near Threatened (NT) according to the IUCN Red List Criteria.
["flowering phenology"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

﻿Two new species of Miersia and their phylogenetic placements alongside the recently described M. putaendensis (Gilliesieae, Allioideae, Amaryllidaceae)
Two new species of the Chilean endemic genus Miersia (Gilliesieae, Allioideae, Amaryllidaceae) are described, M. stellata and M. raucoana, alongside morphological descriptions, a distribution map, illustrations, conservation status assessments, and an updated key to all species of Miersia. Additionally, phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequences were performed to inquire into the evolutionary affinities of both new species and the recently described, M. putaendensis, within the tribe Gilliesieae.
["Alliaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

﻿Two new species of Boesenbergia (Zingiberaceae), from Sabah, Malaysia
Two new species of Boesenbergia, B. sugudensis sp. nov. and B. truncata sp. nov. were discovered in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. Boesenbergia sugudensis resembles B. imbakensis in that the leaf sheath of the plant is not thickened and in the anther thecae dehiscing by longitudinal slits, but differs in having a longer petiole and tubular calyx. Boesenbergia truncata resembles B. orbiculata by the short petiole and a bilobed calyx, but differs by the truncate leaf base, the acute leaf apex, opposite leaves with a narrower lamina parallel to the ground and anther thecae dehiscing by pores. The new species are described and illustrated in detail.
["Boesenbergia"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Southeast Asian Sociopolitical Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Diatoma sinensis: a new diatom species (Bacillariophyta) found in the brackish Lake Qinghai, China
Lake Qinghai is an ancient brackish water lake in which several endemic diatom species have been discovered. In this study, a species of Diatoma is observed under light and scanning electron microscopy and described as new, Diatoma sinensis sp. nov. The living cells of D. sinensis always lie in girdle view due to the cell depth being much larger than valve width (3.3–8.8 vs. 2.0–3.0 μm). The valves of D. sinensis are characterized by their narrow, linear-lanceolate outline, with capitate to subcapitate apices, the presence of two rimoportulae, one at each apex, embedded in the last rib or located among striae and a 4:2 configuration of girdle bands in normal vegetative cells, with four bands assigned to the epivalve and two to the hypovalve. The new taxon is compared with similar species from the genera Diatoma and Distrionella.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

﻿Smithia yehii (Leguminosae, Papilionoideae), a new species from Taiwan
A new species of Smithia Aiton, S. yehii C.M.Wang, Chih Y.Chang & Y.H.Tseng, sp. nov. from the wetlands of Taiwan is reported in this article. This species was mistakenly identified as S. sensitiva Aiton, but can be distinguished by its pale yellow corolla (vs. vivid yellow), often smaller flowers and shorter style. There is also a color gradient on the adaxial surface of the leaflets between young and mature leaves. Surface sculpture of pollen of S. yehii has significantly larger perforations, and muri are wider than those of S. sensitiva. An identification key to the Smithia taxa of Taiwan and S. sensitiva is presented.
["endangered (EN)"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Two new endemic species, Peucedanum miroense and P. tongkangense (Apiaceae), from Korea
Two new species of Peucedanum (Apiaceae), P. miroense and P. tongkangense, from Gangwon Province, South Korea, are described. Both species are most similar to P. elegans and P. hakuunense because of their linear ultimate leaf segments. Peucedanum miroense was found on crevices of rocks in mountain summits and can be distinguished by its pubescent ovary, purple anthers, oblong schizocarp, and 1 or (2) vittae per vallecula and 4 on the commissural face. Peucedanum tongkangense was found in open areas on rocky cliffs along the Donggang River and can be distinguished by its glabrous ovary, whitish-yellow anthers, narrowly ellipsoid schizocarp, and 3 vittae per vallecula and 4 on the commissural face. Distinguishing characteristics, full descriptions, illustrations, photographs, taxonomic notes on geographical distribution, ecology, and phenology of the two species are presented. An identification key for all Korean species of Peucedanum is also provided. In addition, the mericarp surface of two new species and their close relatives are compared using micromorphological analysis.
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Monopyle glutinosa (Gesneriaceae), a new species from the western slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes
Exploratory field expeditions to the western slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes resulted in the discovery of a new species of Monopyle (Gesneriaceae). Monopyle glutinosa J.L.Clark & Keene, sp. nov. is described as a narrow endemic from lowland forests along the border of the Reserva Ecológica Los Illinizas in the Province of Cotopaxi. The new species is unique for the presence of glutinous or sticky trichomes on the calyx lobes and outer surface of the inferior ovary. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned as Critically Endangered (CR).
["Ecuador"]

﻿A new marine epipsammic diatom species, Ambo dajingensis sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae), from the coast of Southeast China
Ambo dajingensis HH Liu, Z Wang, YH Gao & CP Chen, sp. nov. is described as a new species in samples collected from sand grains at Dajing Beach, Ningde City, Fujian Province, China. Morphological details of the new species with respect to valve shape, size and valve ultrastructure are presented based on light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The main features of Ambo dajingensis under a light microscope are elongated elliptic valves with rounded apices, two internal costae on the valve and rectangular in girdle views. SEM observation showed that externally, the frustules are comprised of two valves with a relatively deep mantle and a transition between the valve faces. Small, flabelliform spines are present along the valve margin. Internally, the valves are divided into three sectors by robust costae, which penetrate the whole valve lumen and are thickest at the mantle interior and thinner toward the center. The sternum is narrow and linear, visible only in the valve apex, set off by costae. The striae are comprised of small, round areolae and they are parallel in the middle to slightly radiate at the apices. The new species is compared with other species in the genus Ambo.
["Ambo"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

﻿Sinosenecio yangii (Asteraceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
A new species Sinosenecio yangii D.G. Zhang & Q. Zhou (Asteraceae, Senecioneae) from Guizhou Province, China, is described and illustrated based on its morphological characteristics and molecular evidence. It closely resembles S. confervifer and S. guangxiensis, the former in the scapigerous habit and smooth and glabrous achene surface, the latter in the calyculate involucre and purple abaxial leaf surface, and both in the shape and indumentum of leaf lamina, but differs markedly from the latter two in having fewer capitula and epappose achenes. Phylogenetic analysis based on nrITS and ndhC-trnV sequences shows that this new species belongs to the S. latouchei clade and is sister to S. guangxiensis with moderate support.
["molecular evidence"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties"]

﻿Revision of Ardissoneaceae (Bacillariophyta, Mediophyceae) from Micronesian populations, with descriptions of two new genera, Ardissoneopsis and Grunowago, and new species in Ardissonea, Synedrosphenia and Climacosphenia
Ardissonea was resurrected from Synedra in 1986 and was included as a genus by Round, Crawford and Mann (“The Diatoms”) in its own Family and Order. They commented that there might be several genera involved since the type species of the genus possesses a double-walled structure and other taxa placed in Ardissonea have only a single-walled structure. Two other genera of “big sticks,” Toxarium and Climacosphenia, were placed in their own Families and Orders but share many characters with Ardissoneaceae, especially growth from a bifacial annulus. Eighteen taxa (11 new species) from Micronesia were compared with the literature and remnant material from Grunow’s Honduras Sargassum sample to address the concepts of Ardissonea and Ardissoneaceae. Phylogenetic and morphological analyses showed three clades within Ardissonea sensu lato: Ardissonea emend. for the double-walled taxa, Synedrosphenia emend. and Ardissoneopsis gen. nov. for single-walled taxa. New species include Ardissonea densistriata sp. nov.; Synedrosphenia bikarensis sp. nov., S. licmophoropsis sp. nov., S. parva sp. nov., and S. recta sp. nov.; Ardissoneopsis fulgicans sp. nov., A. appressata sp. nov., and A. gracilis sp. nov. Transfers include Synedrosphenia crystallina comb. nov. and S. fulgens comb. nov. Synedra undosa, seen for the first time in SEM in Grunow’s material, is transferred to Ardissoneopsis undosa comb. nov. Three more genera have similar structure: Toxarium, Climacosphenia and Grunowago gen. nov., erected for Synedra bacillaris and a lanceolate species, G. pacifica sp. nov. Morphological characters of Toxarium in our region support separation of Toxarium hennedyanum and T. undulatum and suggest additional species here and elsewhere. Climacosphenia moniligera was not found but we clarify its characters based on the literature and distinguish C. soulonalis sp. nov. from it. Climacosphenia elongata and a very long, slender C. elegantissima sp. nov., previously identified as C. elongata, were present along with C. scimiter. Morphological and molecular phylogenetics strongly suggested that all these genera belong in one family and we propose to include them in the Ardissoneacae and to reinstate the Order Ardissoneales Round.
["Ardissoneales"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Mosla dadoensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from the southern islands of South Korea
Mosla dadoensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from the southern islands of South Korea, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to M. chinensis, but is distinguished from the latter by having two types of hairs on its stems, wider leaf blades, longer corolla length, and ellipsoid nutlets with a narrowly U-shaped extended area of abscission scar. Mosla dadoensis is also distinguished from the Chinese narrow endemic M. hangchouensis by having an included pistil to the corolla, smaller ellipsoid nutlets, and later flowering and fruiting season. Phylogenetic analyses, based on two nuclear ribosomal (ETS, ITS) and three chloroplast (rbcL, matK, trnL-F) DNA regions, confirmed that the new species was constructed as monophyletic, and that M. dadoensis and M. hangchouensis form a sister group with robust support. We hereby provide a detailed morphological description of M. dadoensis with its corresponding geographical distributions, and comparison tables of related taxa.
["Elsholtzieae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Flora of Cameroon – Annonaceae Vol 45
Annonaceae is a major pantropical family with 113 genera and about 2550 species. Cameroon is one of the most biodiverse countries in Africa but its flora remains incompletely known. In this volume of the Flora of Cameroon, we describe 166 native taxa representing 163 species in 28 native genera within the family Annonaceae. A total of 22 species (about 13%) are endemic to the country. We provide keys to all native genera, species, and infraspecific taxa. For each species a detailed morphological description and a map of its distribution in Cameroon are provided. Distribution maps and diversity analyses are based on a taxonomically verified database of 2073 collections. Across Africa, Cameroon is a center of diversity for Annonaceae harboring one of the highest numbers of species and genera. For example, Cameroon harbors the highest number of African species for the only pantropical genus of Annonaceae, ﻿Xylopia. Annonaceae are found across all 10 administrative regions of Cameroon but diversity is concentrated within the tropical rain forest areas situated in the south and South-West. The areas around Bipindi and Mount Cameroon show the highest levels of diversity, but this is correlated with collection effort. Line drawings and/or photographs accompany most species. One species new to science ﻿﻿﻿Uvariopsis etugeana Dagallier & Couvreur sp. nov. is described. We also undertake a number of nomenclatural changes such as lectotypifications, six new synonymies and two new combinations (﻿﻿﻿Uvaria anisotricha (Le Thomas) Couvreur, comb. nov.; ﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿Uvariodendron fuscum var. giganteum (Engl.) Dagallier & Couvreur, comb. nov.).

Lycoris insularis (Amaryllidaceae), a new species from eastern China revealed by morphological and molecular evidence
Lycoris insularis S.Y.Zhang & J.W.Shao, a new fertile diploid species from coastal provinces in eastern China is described. This new species is most similar to L. sprengeri in morphology and has been misidentified as the latter for a long time. However, it can be distinguished from the latter by the relatively longer perianth tube (1.5‒2.5 cm vs. less than 1.3 cm), a characteristic that was overlooked before. Phylogenetic analysis, based on complete plastid genome, showed that L. insularis is not genetically related to L. sprengeri in the genus. The former was a sister group of L. sanguinea, while the latter was closely related to L. longituba and L. chinensis and they were respectively located on different clades that were separated at the base of the phylogenetic tree. The chromosome number of L. insularis is 2n = 22. At present, as the new species is relatively widely distributed and the wild population can normally reproduce by seeds, we evaluate it as LC (Least Concern) according to criteria of the IUCN Red List.
["Lycoris sprengeri"]
["Chemical synthesis and alkaloids", "Plant and animal studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿A new propaguliferous species of Pohlia (Mielichhoferiaceae, Bryopsida) from Tibet, China
A new propaguliferous moss species, Pohlia tibetana X.R.Wang & X.M.Shao (Mielichhoferiaceae), from Tibet, southwest China, is described. The new species differs most saliently from other species of Pohlia by its combination of slender plants, loosely attached leaves and axillary solitary, and dark red and flower-like gemmae. In this paper, the line drawings, photographs, habit of the new species are provided and a morphological comparison of it with the similar species is made.
["Asexual reproduction"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

﻿Breynia hiemalis (Phyllanthaceae, Phyllantheae), a new species from Yunnan, south-west China
Breynia hiemalis Huan C. Wang & Feng Yang (Phyllanthaceae), of sect. Cryptogynium (Müll.Arg.) Welzen & Pruesapan in subg. Breynia, is described from Yunnan, south-west China. It is known from only a single locality in the valley of the Yuanjiang River, and usually occurs in the understory of the savanna vegetation. It is characterized by its broadly elliptic to orbicular leaf blades, shallowly plate-like calyces of the staminate flowers, ovaries with clearly erose rim and urceolate capsules. Morphological comparisons with similar species are also presented.
["Breynia sect. Cryptogynium"]

﻿A new species of Quercus genus (Fagaceae) from Son Tra Peninsula, Central Vietnam
A new species, Quercus sontraensis Ngoc, Binh & Son is described from Son Tra Nature Reserve, Son Tra Peninsula, Central Vietnam. We examined the morphology and constructed a highly resolved phylogeny of Q. sontraensis and its relatives (including Q. langbianensis and Q. cambodiensis) using Multiplex ISSR genotyping by sequencing (MIG-seq). The morphological analyses and molecular evidence support the distinction between the new species (Q. sontraensis) and its relatives.
["Da Nang City"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Campanula luzhijiangensis (Campanulaceae), a new species from Yunnan, southwest China
Campanula luzhijiangensis (Campanulaceae: Campanuleae) is described and illustrated as a new species from Yunnan, southwest China. The new species is mainly characterized by its relatively gracile stems polyphyllous, small and oblanceolate leaves, and flowers and fruits with small size within Chinese Campanula. It is only known from a single locality in the valley of the Luzhijiang River, usually occurring in the rock crevices, xerophilous scrubs or grasslands. A table of morphological characters comparing the new species with its closest relatives is provided along with a key to the species of Campanula from Yunnan Province, as well as a preliminary conservation assessment of C. luzhijiangensis under the IUCN criteria.
["Campanula mekongensis"]

﻿New Piper species from the eastern slopes of the Andes in northern South America
We describe four new species of Piper from the Amazonian slopes of the northern Andes. Piper hoyoscardozii is distinguished from similar climbing species, P. dryadum and P. flagellicuspe, by its longer peduncles. The Amazonian species Piper indiwasii is distinguished from P. scutilimbum from Panama and northern Colombia by the narrowly spatulate leaf base extension. Piper nokaidoyitau is characterised by the presence of larger leaves and longer spikes than similar species, P. anonifolium and P. hostmannianum. Finally, P. velae is characterised by cordulate leaf bases in all nodes, petioles 0.8–1.5 cm long and pubescent fruits, which easily distinguish it from the related species, P. holdridgeanum.
["Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

﻿The systematic position of puzzling Sino-Himalayan Lophocolea sikkimensis (Lophocoleaceae, Marchantiophyta) is identified
Lophocolea sikkimensis, a little-known Sino-Himalayan species, was collected in North Vietnam and its taxonomic position was identified by molecular genetic techniques. The species is characterized by generally narrowly pointed leaves, which are not seen in other representatives of Lophocoleaceae. We found that it belongs to the recently described genus Cryptolophocolea, although it is clearly morphologically dissimilar to other members of the genus. We propose a corresponding nomenclature combination: Cryptolophocolea sikkimensis comb. nov. This species is the only one in its genus with a predominantly Sino-Himalayan distribution; the vast majority of congeners are distributed in the Southern Hemisphere (mostly in Australasia). Reports of this species in Vietnam further confirm the close phytogeographic relationships of the flora of northern Indochina with those of the Sino-Himalayas and suggest that this species is found in other parts of the Hoang Lien Range and the southern Hengduan Range.
["Lophocolea"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Boliviadendron, a new segregate genus of mimosoid legume (Leguminosae, Caesalpinioideae, mimosoid clade) narrowly endemic to the interior Andean valleys of Bolivia
Phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequence data sampling all species of Leucochloron alongside representatives of genera of the Inga and Albizia clades of the larger ingoid clade of mimosoid legumes (sensu Koenen et al. 2020) confirm the non-monophyly of the genus Leucochloron. We show that Leucochloron bolivianum is placed in the Albizia clade, while the remaining four species of Leucochloron are placed in the Inga clade, in line with previous results. To rectify this non-monophyly, L. bolivianum is segregated as the new genus, Boliviadendron, with a single species, Boliviadendron bolivianum, narrowly endemic to the interior Andean valleys of Bolivia. We illustrate this new segregate genus, present a map of its distribution and discuss the striking lack of morphological distinctions between Boliviadendron and Leucochloron, as well as the phylogenetic and morphological affinities of Boliviadendron to the genera Enterolobium and Albizia.
["Fabaceae"]

﻿Phylogeny and classification of the Australasian and Indomalayan mimosoid legumes Archidendron and Archidendropsis (Leguminosae, subfamily Caesalpinioideae, mimosoid clade)
The morphologically variable genus Archidendron is the second largest mimosoid legume genus from the Indomalayan-Australasian region, yet it has not been well represented in phylogenetic studies. Phylogenies that have included multiple representatives of Archidendron suggest it may not be monophyletic, and the same applies to Archidendropsis, another understudied genus of the Archidendron clade. The most comprehensive phylogeny of Archidendron and Archidendropsis to date is presented, based on four nuclear markers (ITS, ETS, SHMT and RBPCO). Exemplars from all genera of the wider Archidendron clade are sampled, including representatives of all series within Archidendron and the two subgenera of Archidendropsis. Our results confirm that Archidendron and Archidendropsis are not monophyletic. Within Archidendron, only one series (ser. Ptenopae) is resolved as monophyletic and species of Archidendron are divided into two primarily geographic lineages. One clade is distributed in western Malesia and mainland Asia and includes most representatives of series Clypeariae, while the other is mostly restricted to eastern Malesia and Australia and includes representatives of the seven other series plus two samples of series Clypeariae. No taxonomic changes are made for Archidendron due to the high level of topological uncertainty and the lack of discrete macromorphological characters separating these two lineages. Each of the two subgenera of Archidendropsis is monophyletic but they are not closely related. A new genus endemic to Queensland (Australia), Heliodendron Gill.K. Br. & Bayly, gen. nov., is described for the former Archidendropsis subg. Basaltica, and combinations for its three species are proposed: Heliodendron basalticum (F. Muell.) Gill.K. Br. & Bayly, comb. nov., Heliodendron thozetianum (F. Muell.) Gill.K. Br. & Bayly, comb. nov., and Heliodendron xanthoxylon (C.T. White & W.D. Francis) Gill.K. Br. & Bayly, comb. nov.
["Fabaceae"]

﻿New segregates from the Neotropical genus Stryphnodendron (Leguminosae, Caesalpinioideae, mimosoid clade)
["Non-monophyly is a prominent issue in mimosoid legumes"]

﻿Pilea danxiaensis (Urticaceae), a new species in the Danxia landform from Guangdong, China including a description of the entire chloroplast genome
Pilea danxiaensis L.F.Fu, A.K.Monro & Y.G.Wei, a new species of Urticaceae from Danxia landform, Guangdong, China, is described and photographed. Phylogenetic analyses based on three DNA regions (ITS, trnL-F and rbcL) suggest that the new species belongs to P. sect. Pilea. Within the section, the new species is morphologically most similar to P. sinocrassifolia and P. peploides. Plastid genome and ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences of the new species are assembled and annotated. The plastid genome is 151,857 bp in length and comprises two inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,307 bp separated by a large single-copy of 82,836 bp and a small single-copy of 18,407 bp. A total of 113 functional genes are recovered, comprising 79 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. A global conservation assessment suggests that P. danxiaensis should be classified as of Least Concern (LC).
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿A new freshwater species Achnanthidium kangdingnese (Bacillariophyta, Achnanthidiaceae) from Sichuan Province, China
A new freshwater diatom species, Achnanthidium kangdingnese Yu, You & Wang, sp. nov. from Sichuan Province, China, is described. The morphology of this species was analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM). A. kangdingnese belongs to the A. initium-like subgroup, which has external distal raphe ends curved in opposite directions of the valve. The main characteristics of A. kangdingnese are its linear shape, rounded apices and transpically-elongated areolae on the both valves. The central area is well defined with one or two spaced striae of the raphe valve. And on the internal valve, areolae are occluded by hymens perforated by delicate slits, and each hymen is closely joined with the adjacent hymen. We compared the new species with other similar species of Achnanthidium, A. kangdingnese is considered to be sufficiently different from other similar species based on valve outline, shape of the axial and center areas, and striae density. The new species is known only from its type locality, a mountain lake in Kangding County.

﻿Taxonomic study of a novel terrestrial alga, Spongiosarcinopsis qinghaiensis sp. nov. (Protosiphonaceae, Chlorophyta), from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
There is only one species of Spongiosarcinopsis in the literature currently. It was found in gray soil in Russia for the first time. According to molecular data analysis results, the isolated algal strain is most closely related to Spongiosarcinopsis terrestris. Unlike Spongiosarcinopsis terrestris, the isolated strain was found on soil surfaces at high altitudes, the young vegetative cell is spherical, vegetative cells are relatively large, and pyrenoids are generally fewer. In view of such morphological differences, phylogenetic analysis results, and comparison of ITS2 secondary structure and ultrastructure, the strain isolated in the present study was proposed to be a novel species.
["ITS2 secondary structure"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Diatoms and Algae Research", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

﻿Spiradiclis liboensis (Rubiaceae), a new species from limestone mountain areas in Guizhou, China
Spiradiclis liboensis L. Wu & W. J. Liu, a new species in tribe Ophiorrhizeae of Rubiaceae from limestone mountain areas of Guizhou, south-western China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to S. guangdongensis and S. jingxiensis, but differs from the latter two by the following traits: stipule triangular, inflorescence sessile or with peduncle up to 0.5 mm long, pedicel 0.8–2.2 mm long, corolla white, salverform, corolla tube 1.6–2.2 cm long, corolla tube of long-styled morph inside with a villous ring and stigmas positioned at the throat of the corolla tube. The conservation status is assessed as “Vulnerable” (VU) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

﻿Hymenasplenium tholiformis (Aspleniaceae), a new fern species from southeastern Xizang, China based on morphological and molecular evidence
A new species of Aspleniaceae, Hymenasplenium tholiformis sp. nov., is described from Medog County in southeastern Xizang, China. The new species is morphologically similar to H. apogamum and H. szechuanense, but the former has ascending pinnae, pinna apex obtuse to rounded, pinna-marginal teeth entire, and veins terminating just below marginal teeth. Phylogenetic analysis based on five plastid markers confirmed that this new species represents a diverging lineage in the H. excisum subclade of Hymenasplenium.
["Hymenasplenium"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Ardisia whitmorei (Primulaceae-Myrsinoideae), a new species from north east of Peninsular Malaysia
Ardisia whitmorei Julius & Utteridge, sp. nov. (Primulaceae-Myrsinoideae), a member of Ardisia subgenus Stylardisia on account of the style protruding from the closed petals prior to anthesis, is herein described and illustrated as a new species. This new species is easily distinguished by the combination of the inflorescences with a slender rachis branched to two orders, the corolla lobes are abaxially glabrous with usually up to only two gland-dots near the apex and the brochidrodromous secondary veins with double loops near the margin.

﻿Paraphlomis jinggangshanensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Jiangxi, China
Paraphlomis jinggangshanensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Jiangxi Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to P. intermedia, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by its cordate leaf base (vs. cuneate, decurrent), stem and calyx tube with glandular hairs (vs. short pubescent), and glabrous anthers (vs. ciliate anthers). A phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS regions, suggests that P. jinggangshanensis represents a separate branch in Paraphlomis and is closely related to Clade II. It is currently known only from Jinggangshan National Natural Reserve. Because of its limited distribution and small population size, the species was assessed as Near Threatened (NT) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

﻿A monograph of the genus Polylepis (Rosaceae)
We present a monograph of the high Andean tree genus Polylepis (Rosaceae), based on a species concept considering morphological, climatic and biogeographic distinctness as indicators of evolutionary independence. In total, we recognize 45 species of Polylepis, grouped in five sections. Polylepis sect. Sericeae is represented by 15 species in four subsections, P. sect. Reticulatae by seven species, P. sect. Subsericantes by three species, P. sect. Australes by two species and P. sect. Incanaee by three subsections with 18 species. We describe seven new species, one from Colombia (P. frontinensis), one from Ecuador (P. simpsoniae) and five from Peru (P. acomayensis, P. fjeldsaoi, P. occidentalis, P. pilosissima and P. sacra). Three species from Peru (P. albicans, P. pallidistigma and P. serrata) are re-instated as valid species. Two taxa from Bolivia (P. incanoides and P. nana) are elevated from subspecies to species rank. The morphology, habitat, distribution, ecology and conservation status of each species are documented. We also provide an identification key to the species of the genus and general introductions on taxonomic history, morphology, evolution, ecology and conservation.
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

﻿Erythroxylum austroguangdongense (Erythroxylaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China
Erythroxylum austroguangdongense (Erythroxylaceae), a new species from Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is morphologically most similar to E. calyptratum, but is distinguished by the leathery leaf blade with fewer pairs of secondary veins and flowers borne on leafless nodes of the basal part of the current branch with much longer pedicels and sub-rectangular petal appendages. This is the second native species of Erythroxylum recorded from China.
["Coca family"]

﻿Novelties on the genus Vaccinium (Ericaceae) from Hainan, China: a new species and a new record for the country
Here we describe a new species, Vaccinium pseudopubicalyx, and report a new record for the flora of China, V. viscifolium, both from Hainan Province. Vaccinium viscifolium also represents the first record of V. sect. Euepigynium for China. Detailed descriptions and illustrations with analytical photographs of the two taxa are provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Selaginella wuyishanensis (sect. Tetragonostachyae, Selaginellaceae), a new species from East China and its phylogenetic position based on molecular data
A new spikemoss species, Selaginella wuyishanensis, is described and illustrated based on materials collected from Fujian Province, East China. The new species can be distinguished from S. lutchuensis Koidzumi and S. albociliata P. S. Wang by its leaves with extremely long cilia (up to 8 mm) and distinctly white margins, ovate ventral sporophylls, and sporophyll-pteryx completely inverted on dorsal sporophylls. In the present work, a molecular phylogeny, taxonomic description, distribution information, line drawing, and photographs of this new species are presented. A morphological comparison is also given to distinguish it from morphologically similar species in Selaginella sect. Tetragonostachyae (Hook. & Grev.) Hieron. & Sadeb.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Monograph of Doselia (Solanaceae), a new hemiepiphytic genus endemic to the northern Andes
A new genus, Doselia A.Orejuela & Särkinen, gen. nov., is described in the tribe Solandreae (Solanaceae) consisting of four species of hemiepiphytic lianas endemic to the premontane forests of the Colombian and Ecuadorian Andes. The genus is distinguished based on the membranous leaves, usually sparsely pubescent with eglandular simple trichomes, pseudo-verticillate leaf arrangement, and elongated, pendulous, and few-flowered inflorescences with showy flowers and conical fruits. Three new combinations are made to transfer species to the new genus previously described as part of the polyphyletic genus Markea Rich. (Doselia epifita (S.Knapp) A.Orejuela & Särkinen, comb. nov., D. huilensis (A.Orejuela & J.M.Vélez) A.Orejuela & Särkinen, comb. nov. and D. lopezii (Hunz.) A.Orejuela & Särkinen, comb. nov.). One new species is described from the western slopes of the eastern cordillera of the Colombian Andes, known only from three localities in the Boyacá, Santander, and Tolima departments (Doselia galilensis A.Orejuela & Villanueva, sp. nov.). The new species is unique in the genus in having glabrescent adult leaves, green-purplish calyces and long, greenish-white, infundibuliform corollas with delicate purplish veins and large lobes tinged with purple, and pubescent styles. Here we provide a revision of Doselia with a distribution map of all species, an identification key, photographs, preliminary conservation assessments, and line drawings of all four species.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

﻿A new species of Cinnamomum (Lauraceae) from southwestern China
Field investigations in Guizhou, China, in 2020 resulted in the discovery of an unknown species of Lauraceae. Morphological studies revealed that it is a new species of Cinnamomum Schaeff. sect. Camphora Meisn., based on the large terminal buds, and alternate leaves with pinnate veins. It is distinguished from other species of sect. Camphora by the rather large perulate terminal buds with numerous bracts, larger flowers, oblong-elliptic linear tepals twice as long as the stamens, and the deep cup-shaped fruiting cupule. It is here described and illustrated as a new species, Cinnamomum guizhouense C.Y.Deng, Zhi Yang et Y.Yang. A key to distinguish it from related species in the same area is provided. In addition, we list the new species as Critically Endangered (CR), and suggest to conduct ex situ conservation, collect seeds and plant the species in botanic gardens.

﻿A comprehensive checklist of the deciduous photinia genus Pourthiaea (Maleae, Rosaceae), with emphasis on their validity and typification
Due to the complicated evolutionary history in Pourthiaea, ninety-seven taxa have been described since 1784, and ninety-one of them are validly published taxa, five are naked names, and one is an invalid name. After a comprehensive and critical evaluation, 213 names have been published, including new combinations, new status, and new names; this may be due to the controversial taxonomic position of Pourthiaea in the apple tribe, Maleae. We herewith provide a taxonomic checklist of Pourthiaea for further taxonomic and evolutionary studies. We also lectotypify two taxa: Photinia amphidoxa var. stylosa and P. glabra var. fokienensis.
["Lectotype"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

﻿Taxonomic notes on Sorbus megalocarpa (Rosaceae) and related taxa
Four Sorbus taxa endemic to China, S. arguta, S. guanxianensis, S. megalocarpa var. megalocarpa and S. megalocarpa var. cuneata, are morphologically similar to one another in having large brown fruits with persistent calyx and dense lenticels. In literature, either all of the four taxa were accepted, or two of them, S. arguta and S. megalocarpa var. cuneata, were treated as synonyms of S. megalocarpa var. megalocarpa, or S. guanxianensis alone was dubious. In this study, based on morphological comparison, S. arguta is reinstated for its relatively small inflorescence, small fruit and timing of flowering after leaves are unfolded. S. megalocarpa var. cuneata is confirmed as a synonym and S. guanxianensis is proposed as a new heterotypic synonym of S. megalocarpa.
["resurrection"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Powdery Mildew Fungal Diseases"]

﻿Oreocharis guangwushanensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Sichuan Province, China
A new species of Oreocharis, O. guangwushanensis from the Sichuan Province of south-western China, is described and illustrated here. This new species has a pink corolla that is different from other species of Oreocharis in southwest China and, although it is morphologically similar to O. ronganensis and O. reticuliflora, it has significant differences in the colour and shape of the corolla, the apex of the corolla limb, shape and indumentum of the filaments and a shorter pistil. A detailed description, colour photographs, distribution and habitat, as well as the IUCN conservation status, are also provided.

﻿Micromorphological leaf epidermal traits as potential taxonomic markers for infrageneric classification of Oxytropis (Fabaceae)
The characteristics of the leaf epidermis have proven to be useful criteria to support taxonomic studies within Fabaceae. However, there are few systematic studies on the taxonomic significance of leaf epidermis of Oxytropis DC. Here, we used light and scanning electron microscopy to investigate leaf epidermal characteristics of 18 species of genus Oxytropis from the Northeastern Margin of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Our examination showed two main types of leaf epidermal cells: polygonal and irregular, and four different patterns of anticlinal walls: straight-arched, sinuolate, undulate, and sinuate. All species studied possess anomocytic stomata. Two trichome shapes were identified: strip-like trichomes, that were present only in O. ciliata, and cylindrical trichomes, present in all other species. Epidermal cell shape and anticlinal wall pattern were constant within species and are useful for species delimitation within genus Oxytropis, when combined with other macroscopic traits. The shape of trichomes can be useful for distinguishing O. ciliata from the other investigated species. Stomatal type was the same within the genus and may be used to elaborate the phylogenetic relationships between genera in combination with data on stomata from other genera. Cluster analysis results were largely consistent with the classification of species and sections based on macro morphological data, indicating that foliar epidermis characteristics of Oxytropis can be used as markers for taxonomic identification at the infrageneric classification level. Lastly, our results support the delineation of the section Leucopodia as an independent section but do not support the merging of section Gobicola into section Baicalia.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Two new freshwater species of Surirella (Bacillariophyta) from the Wuling Mountains, China
Two sympatric Surirella species found at the same specific locality in the Wuling Mountains of China are documented with light and scanning electron microscope. Both species are new to science and named S. wufluminensis sp. nov. and S. suiningensis sp. nov. Surirella wufluminensis has large frustules that are either clockwise or counterclockwise twisted when viewed with the light microscope, and possesses distinctive fibulae, mound-like outgrowths on the valve surface throughout, raised longitudinal ridges on both sides of the raphe, and two helictoglossa-like processes at one apex internally. Surirella suiningensis has narrowly ovate valve outline, distinctive fibulae, troughs alternating with crests from pole to pole, and two helictoglossa-like processes at one apex internally. These two species do not produce costae on the valve surface in contrast to many species in Surirella. This study provides a further two examples of the wide range of morphological diversity in the genus Surirella.
["Helictoglossa-like process"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

﻿Lepisorus medioximus (Polypodiales, Polypodiaceae), a new species from Shan State of Myanmar
A new species of the species-rich fern genus Lepisorus (Polypodiales, Polypodiaceae) has been found to occur in Shan state, Myanmar. Lepisorus medioximus is described based on morphological characters and phylogenetic evidence. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the specimens of L. medioximus formed a distinct clade nested in the Pseudovittaria clade. The morphological comparison demonstrated that the species is distinct from phylogenetically related species, namely L. elegans, L. contortus, and L. tosaensis, in the morphology of the rhizome scales, size, and shape of the lamina, position of sori, and paraphyses.
["Epiphyte"]

﻿Thesium muasyae (Santalaceae), a new species from the limestone fynbos of the Overberg, South Africa
Thesium muasyae, a new species of the family Santalaceae, is described and illustrated. This species has unique morphological and ecological characters, differentiating it from other closely related species of the genus, such as T. karooicum. These characters include plants forming compact shrubs to about 30 cm tall with glabrous surfaces; leaves recurved, to about 4 cm long, terete to triangular, apiculate; flowers placed in lax spikes or borne solitary; and style up to about 2.5 mm long. Ecologically, T. muasyae is endemic to the limestone fynbos in the Overberg, Bredasdorp District, South Africa. Molecular phylogenetic evidence places this species in Subgenus Frisea Section Barbata, as closest sister to T. hispidulum + T. karooicum. A preliminary conservation Red List assessment suggests that T. muasyae is Critically Endangered, based on its population size, area of occupancy and extent of occurrence.
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Monograph of wild and cultivated chili peppers (Capsicum L., Solanaceae)
Capsicum L. (tribe Capsiceae, Solanaceae) is an American genus distributed ranging from the southern United States of America to central Argentina and Brazil. The genus includes chili peppers, bell peppers, ajíes, habaneros, jalapeños, ulupicas and pimientos, well known for their economic importance around the globe. Within the Solanaceae, the genus can be recognised by its shrubby habit, actinomorphic flowers, distinctive truncate calyx with or without appendages, anthers opening by longitudinal slits, nectaries at the base of the ovary and the variously coloured and usually pungent fruits. The highest diversity of this genus is located along the northern and central Andes. Although Capsicum has been extensively studied and great advances have been made in the understanding of its taxonomy and the relationships amongst species, there is no monographic treatment of the genus as a whole. Based on morphological and molecular evidence studied from field and herbarium specimens, we present here a comprehensive taxonomic treatment for the genus, including updated information about morphology, anatomy, karyology, phylogeny and distribution. We recognise 43 species and five varieties, including C. mirum Barboza, sp. nov. from São Paulo State, Brazil and a new combination C. muticum (Sendtn.) Barboza, comb. nov.; five of these taxa are cultivated worldwide (C. annuum L. var. annuum, C. baccatum L. var. pendulum (Willd.) Eshbaugh, C. baccatum L. var. umbilicatum (Vell.) Hunz. & Barboza, C. chinense Jacq. and C. frutescens L.). Nomenclatural revision of the 265 names attributed to chili peppers resulted in 89 new lectotypifications and five new neotypifications. Identification keys and detailed descriptions, maps and illustrations for all taxa are provided.
["America"]
["Ion Channels and Receptors", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

﻿Polypleurum chinense (Podostemaceae), a new species from Fujian, China, based on morphological and genomic evidence
We describe Polypleurum chinense, a new species of Podostemaceae from Yunxiao County, Fujian Province, China, based on morphological and molecular data and the genus Polypleurum is recorded here for the first time from China. Polypleurum chinense has a gross morphology similar to P. longistylosum, but it can be distinguished from the latter by its narrower roots, more numerous and longer leaves, shorter stigmas and more numerous ovules per locule. To distinguish the new Polypleurum species and study its phylogenetic position, its complete plastome was sequenced and characterised. The plastome is 132,110 bp in length, including a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 20,389 bp divided by the large single-copy (LSC) and small single-copy (SSC) regions of 79,022 bp and 12,310 bp, respectively. The plastome size of P. chinense is relatively smaller compared to most angiosperms due to the absence of the ycf1 and ycf2 genes in the IR regions. The phylogenetic analyses also strongly support the separation of the new species from other taxa.
["Fujian Province"]

﻿ Primula xinningensis (Primulaceae), a new species from karst caves in Hunan, China
Primula xinningensis Wei Zhang bis & J.W.Shao, a new species from Hunan Province, China, is described. Its leaf morphology is similar to the P. merrilliana complex and flower morphology similar to P. cicutariifolia, but it can be distinguished from the former by the black pollen sac, corolla lobes apex obviously emarginate and can be differed from the latter by cotyledon triangular obovate, plants densely covered with glandular hairs and special habitat (karst caves). The whole plastid genome of this new species is 151, 601–151, 630 bp in length. Based on the whole plastid genome sequences, phylogenetic trees revealed that the new species did not genetically relate to the above two mentioned morphologically similar species, but it was closely related to P. hubeiensis. Currently, only three populations were discovered within a small distribution area, thus, it is preliminarily considered as Vulnerable (VU) according to criteria of the IUCN Red List.
["Homostyly"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Thylacopteris minuta (Polypodiaceae), a new fern species from Myanmar
The genus Thylacopteris is a small, phylogenetically isolated genus belonging to the fern family Polypodiaceae. This study describes a new species, Thylacopteris minuta, based on collections obtained during field surveys of Shan State, Myanmar. This new species is distinct from other species of Thylacopteris in its small size and presence of sclerenchyma strands in the rhizome. This species is also distinct from the only other species of Thylacopteris with molecular data available, T. papillosa, in a plastid rbcL phylogeny of Polypodiaceae. This new discovery of Thylacopteris from Myanmar suggests that this genus is still overlooked in Southeast Asia.
["Myanmar"]

﻿Molecular, chromosomal, and morphological evidence reveals a new allotetraploid fern species of Asplenium (Aspleniaceae) from southern Jiangxi, China
Asplenium jiulianshanense, a new tetraploid fern species of the A. normale complex (Aspleniaceae) from Jiulianshan National Nature Reserve, southern Jiangxi, China is described and illustrated. We inferred the phylogenetic position of the new species based on sequences from seven plastid markers (atpB, rbcL, rps4, rps4-trnS, trnL, trnL-F, and trnG) and one low-copy nuclear gene, pgiC. The plastid phylogeny supported a close relationship among the new species A. jiulianshanense, A. minutifolium, and A. kiangsuense, while the nuclear phylogeny differed in topology from the plastid tree. The new species may be due to hybridization between A. kiangsuense and A. boreale. Morphologically, the new species can easily be distinguished from other members of the A. normale complex by rachises bearing a gemma near the apex, pinna margins entire to sparsely crenate, and (1‒)3‒4(‒6) sori per pinna.
["Black-stemmed spleenworts"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

﻿Indigofera vallicola (Fabaceae), a new species from Yunnan, southwest China
Indigofera vallicola (Fabaceae), a new species is described and illustrated. This plant is only found from two localities in the central Yunnan Province, southwest China. It is characterized by having the prostrate habit, usually 13–17-foliolate leaves and the relatively small (3–5 mm long) flowers. Morphological comparisons with its closest relatives, I. rigioclada, I. franchetii, I. chaetodonta, and I. henryi are also presented.
["Dry-hot valley"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant-based Medicinal Research", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

﻿New Species of Virola (Myristicaceae) from South America
With about 70 species Virola, is the largest genus of Myristicaceae in the Neotropics, the genus ranked in the top ten genera of abundance across Amazonia. Ten new species are proposed in this striking genus, which are described based on morphology, and are illustrated. The new species were discovered thanks to herbarium specimens collected mainly in the 1980s and 1990s when field documentations were more active. The new species come from Colombia (V. calimensis sp. nov., V. cogolloi sp. nov., V. excisa sp. nov., V. tuckerae sp. nov.), Ecuador (V. alvaroperezii sp. nov., V. bombuscaroensis sp. nov., V. calimensis, V. excisa, V. yasuniana sp. nov.), Peru (V. aguarunana sp. nov., V. cumala sp. nov., V. excisa, V. parkeri sp. nov.), and Brazil (V. excisa, V. yasuniana). Additionally, a lectotype is designated for V. macrocarpa, a name used to identify some specimens of the new species here described, and V. kwatae is reported for the first time for Brazil. We provide a comparation table between the new species and the species that is morphologically close to it, a preliminary list of species for the genus, and notes of how the new species were treated in floras, checklists, or collections that need more study and herbarium specimens.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Johnstonella punensis (Boraginaceae), a new species endemic to the dry Puna of Chile
In an earlier molecular phylogenetic study, a sample of what was originally identified as Cryptantha hispida (Boraginaceae) from Chile, grouped with species of the genus Johnstonella. This sample was subsequently shown not to be C. hispida, but an undescribed species, endemic to the dry Puna of Chile. This new species is described here as Johnstonella punensis, along with a key to all South American species of the genus. Johnstonella punensis resembles other members of that genus in having an ovate fruit shape, ovate nutlets and a long style that extends beyond the nutlets. It is unusual in the genus in having a non-tuberculate, dimpled to rugulose nutlet surface sculpturing. Its closest relative within the genus is likely the South American J. diplotricha.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

﻿Isotrema putalengense, a new species of Aristolochiaceae from northern Vietnam and two new combinations in Isotrema
Isotrema putalengense Luu, Q.B.Nguyen & H.C.Nguyen is described as a new species from northern Vietnam. It looks most morphologically like I. wardianum but is distinguishable by a combination of different leafy and floral characters. Morphological comparison between the new plant and closest species is provided. In addition, combinations of two recently described Aristolochia species are made, namely Isotrema vuquangense (T.V.Do) Luu, Q.B.Nguyen & H.C.Nguyen and Isotrema yachangense (B.G.Huang, Yan Liu & Y.S.Huang) Luu, Q.B.Nguyen & H.C.Nguyen.
["Aristolochia"]

﻿Didymodon manhanensis (Pottiaceae, Bryophyta), a new species from Inner Mongolia steppe, China and its phylogenetic position, based on molecular data
Inner Mongolia steppe is one of the suitable habitats for Didymodon species and a new species, Didymodon manhanensis C. Feng & J. Kou from Manhan Mountain in semi-arid region in Inner Mongolia, China is described and illustrated. It is characterised by leaves incurved and slightly twisted when dry, spreading when moist, narrowly lanceolate from an ovate base; subulate and fragile leaf apices; distally bistratose leaf margins that are recurved in proximal 2/3–3/4; excurrent costa with guide cells in 2–3 layers and without ventral stereids; smooth laminal cells and red KOH laminal colour reaction. Our morphological analyses and molecular results, based on DNA sequences of ITS, rps4 and trnM-trnV, conﬁrm that D. manhanensis belongs to a group that includes D. obtusus J. Kou, X.-M. Shao & C. Feng and D. daqingii J. Kou, R.H. Zander & C. Feng. This new species is compared with similar species and its phylogenetic position and ecology are discussed.
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

﻿Primulina nana (Gesneriaceae), a new species from eastern Guangxi, China
Primulina nana C.Xiong, W.C.Chou & F.Wen, a new species of Gesneriaceae from limestone areas of Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated here. It morphologically resembles P. yangshuoensis Y.G.Wei & F.Wen in papillose leaf surface, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by noting a combination of characteristics, especially in its leaf blades, leaf blade indumentum characteristic, calyx lobes, corolla and the disc. We found only one population at the type locality, about 200 mature individuals. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (Version 3.1), the new species is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR).

﻿Viola shiweii, a new species of Viola (Violaceae) from karst forest in Guizhou, China
Viola shiweii Xiao C. Li & Z. W. Wang (Violaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China, is described, based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species is morphologically most similar to V. kwangtungensis Melchior in its glabrous lateral petals and stoloniferous habit, but can be distinguished by its obtuse teeth along the leaf margin, its abaxially greyish-green leaf blade and its broader and entire sepals with a distinct basal appendage.
["Biochemical and Structural Characterization", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

﻿Two new pendulous epiphytic Columnea L. (Gesneriaceae) species from the Chocó forests of the Northern Andes
Exploratory field expeditions to the Chocó forests in the northwestern slopes of the Ecuadorian and Colombian Andes resulted in the discovery of two new species of Columnea (Gesneriaceae). Columnea fluidifolia J.L.Clark & F.Tobar, sp. nov., is described as a narrow endemic from Bosque Protector Mashpi and surrounding areas in the province of Pichincha in northern Ecuador. Columnea pendens F.Tobar, J.L.Clark & J.F.Sm., sp. nov., is described from recently discovered populations in the provinces of Carchi and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas (Ecuador) and the departments of Cauca and Nariño in southwestern Colombia. The two new species are pendent epiphytes with elongate shoots and shallowly bilabiate to nearly tubular corollas. Descriptions, complete specimen citations, and a distribution map are provided. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status of Critically Endangered (CR) is provided for C. fluidifolia and Endangered (EN) is provided for C. pendens.

﻿Resurrection of Stipa tremula and taxonomy of the high-alpine species from the Stipa purpurea complex (Poaceae, Pooideae)
Stipa purpurea is a high-alpine species that occurs in cryophilous steppes, semi-deserts and stony slopes, from the Tian Shan and Pamirian Plateau through Qinghai-Xizang Plateau to the Himalayas and is characterised by a great morphological variability. During the revision of specimens of the taxon, we observed that the pattern of this variability is linked to the geographical distribution of the specimens. Numerical analyses (PCA and UPGMA) revealed three groups of OTUs corresponding to three morphotypes within the S. purpurea complex. A set of macro- and micromorphological characters, supported by a map of general distributional ranges, are presented to distinguish each of the three taxa within the complex and we reassess the status of Lasiagrostis tremula described by Ruprecht in 1869. As a result, Stipa tremula, S. purpurea and S. arenosa were distinguished within the complex. The intermediate characters of S. arenosa may suggest its putative hybrid origin (S. tremula × S. purpurea), whereas the presence of extremely long florets may be an expression of the gigas effect. We propose two new combinations (S. tremula and S. arenosa), describe a new nothospecies (S. × ladakhensis) that originated from hybridisation between S. klimesii and S. purpurea s.l. and designate the lectotype for Ptilagrostis semenovii. An identification key and detailed morphological description of species from the S. purpurea complex are also presented.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

﻿Taxonomic delimitation and molecular identification of clusters within the species Zanthoxylum nitidum (Rutaceae) in China
Zanthoxylum nitidum, known as Liang-Mian-Zhen in China, is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant used to treat traumatic injury, rheumatism, paralysis, toothache, stomach ache, and venomous snake bites. Two varieties of the species have been described and three morphological types have been reported within the original variety. However, taxonomic delimitation and molecular markers for distinguishing these varieties and types within this species remain unknown. Since different populations exhibit varying chemical compositions, easy identification of intraspecific taxa is crucial. We collected 420 individuals from 38 natural populations, 3 samples of standard medicinal material, and 17 folk-medicine samples to perform classification and identification within Zanthoxylum nitidum. Four distinct genetic clusters (A, B, C, and D) were highly supported by the nuclear barcode. Two distinct chloroplast clusters (A1 and A2) were further detected within A, and three others had one-to-one correspondence with the remaining nuclear clusters. Molecular identification showed that the 17 folk samples comprised A1, A2, B, and D, while the 3 standard samples belonged to A2. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and rbcL gene are proposed as barcodes for rapid and accurate identification of the different Liang-Mian-Zhen lineages in China. This study highlights the importance of accurate taxonomic delimitation in combination with rapid and accurate molecular identification of medicinal plants.
["Classification and identification"]
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Berberine and alkaloids research", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

﻿Two new Halamphora (Bacillariophyta) species from the marine coasts off Livingston Island, Antarctica
During a survey of the marine benthic diatom flora on the coasts off Livingston Island (South Shetland Islands, Maritime Antarctic Region), two Halamphora species that could not be identified based on the currently available literature, were observed. Detailed light and scanning electron microscopy observations and thorough comparison with similar taxa in the literature revealed that both taxa should be described as new species. The first taxon, Halamphora kenderoviana sp. nov., was most likely misidentified in past Antarctic studies, and included within the range of another taxon, Halamphora coffeaeformis. Analysis of literature data showed that the second new taxon, Halamphora moncheviana sp. nov., has been previously reported from the Antarctic Continent (but as an unidentified species). The new taxa are compared with similar Halamphora taxa worldwide. Data on their ecology and distribution are also provided.
["Amphora sensu lato"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

﻿Aster quanzhouensis (Asteraceae), a new riparian species from eastern China
Aster quanzhouensis sp. nov. (Asteraceae) from Fujian, eastern China, is described and illustrated. It grows on rocks in the riparian zone. Morphological, cytological and molecular investigations of A. quanzhouensis were carried out. The morphological data and phylogenetic analysis based on combined ITS, ETS and trnL-F dataset suggest that A. quanzhouensis is a separate species closely related to A. tonglingensis. The new species differs from the latter by the shorter stem length, leaf morphology, colour of phyllaries, number of ray florets, and achene shape. The cytological observation shows that the new species is diploid with a karyotype of 2n = 18.

﻿Chimonobambusa sangzhiensis (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new combination supported by morphological and molecular evidence
This study elucidates the taxonomic position of Indosasa sangzhiensis in considering whether it belongs to Indosasa or Chimonobambusa. Based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic evidence, our results explicitly indicated that I. sangzhiensis should be a member of Chimonobambusa, rather than Indosasa, and is a distinct species closely related to C. communis, C. opienensis and C. puberula. Thus, the new combination Chimonobambusa sangzhiensis (B.M.Yang) N.H.Xia & Z.Y.Niu is made. A detailed description as well as two color plates of this species are also provided.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Rice Cultivation and Yield Improvement", "Bamboo properties and applications"]

﻿A new species and new records of Solanum (Solanaceae) from Colombia
We describe a new species of the Geminata clade of Solanum from Colombia and provide new distributional records for two additional Solanum species, recorded here for the first time in Colombia. Solanum bohsii J.D. Tovar, sp. nov. is morphologically similar to S. chlamydogynum Bitter from Venezuela of the Solanum sessile species group (Geminata clade). These two species can be distinguished by trichome morphology, as well as colour and density of the indumentum. In addition, we report new range expansions into Colombia for two species: S. tanysepalum S.Knapp (Geminata clade) known previously only from Venezuela and S. verecundum M.Nee (Brevantherum clade) from Ecuador and Peru.

﻿Paracladopus chiangmaiensis (Podostemaceae), a new generic record for China and its complete plastid genome
The genus Paracladopus was established based on the type species P. chiangmaiensis in 2006. The two Paracladopus species are distributed in Thailand and Laos; however, neither of them has been documented in China to date. During our field work in 2020, we collected a river-weed in Wuzhi Mountain, Hainan Province of China. After checking the morphological characters, it was identified as P. chiangmaiensis. Then, we assembled and annotated its chloroplast genome based on the genome skimming data. The results showed that the complete chloroplast genome was 133,748 bp with 35% GC content, consisting of 76 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. A maximum-likelihood tree constructed based on the matk genes showed that WuMS109 was clustered with P. chiangmaiensis (AB537420, AB698348) without base difference and together with the remains of Paracladopus formed a sister clade to Cladopus. This is the first report of P. chiangmaiensis that represents a new generic record for China. The discovery of this river-weed could lay the foundation for investigating their biogeographical patterns and species evolution in further studies.
["aquatic"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Hemilophia cardiocarpa (Brassicaceae), a new species from Yunnan, southwest China
Hemilophia cardiocarpa (Brassicaceae), the sixth species of the Chinese endemic genus Hemilophia, is described and illustrated. This plant is found in the Jiaozishan Mountains in Dongchuan District, northern Yunnan, southwest China. Morphologically, it shows close relationships with H. rockii and H. pulchella, but differs from it in the leaf shape and size, inflorescence, flower size, shape of fruit and length of its pedicel. An updated key to the taxa of Hemilophia is provided.
["Alpine flora"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Terniopsis yongtaiensis (Podostemaceae), a new species from South East China based on morphological and genomic data
The new species Terniopsis yongtaiensis X.X. Su, Miao Zhang & Bing-Hua Chen, from Fujian Province, China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to T. heterostaminata from Thailand, but differs in its two fertile stamens, fewer but longer vegetative ramuli, fewer but shorter flowering ramuli, shorter pedicels, capsule-stalk and stamens. The complete chroloplast genome of the new species is 129,074 bp long and has a typical quadripartite structure, including two inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 18,504 bp in length, separated by a large single-copy (LSC) and a small single-copy (SSC) regions of 79,000 bp and 13,066 bp, respectively. The ycf1 and ycf2 genes were lost compared to most higher plants, leading to a substantial reduction in the IR. The phylogenetic analysis using both matK and nrITS revealed that T. yongtaiensis is sister to T. heterostaminata with moderate support, and formed a clade with other Terniopsis species, suggesting that the new species belongs to Tristichoideae.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

﻿Plagiothecium talbotii, a new species from the Aleutian Islands (Alaska, U.S.A.)
Plagiothecium talbotii sp. nov. is described from Attu Island, Alaska, U.S.A. The newly-described species is not similar in appearance to any Northern Hemisphere species; only the habit is similar to P. platyphyllum. However, it not only occupies a different habitat than that species, but genetically and morphologically, it is clearly distinct from it. The results of DNA sequencing, a detailed description of the morphological features, illustrations, ecological preferences and currently known geographical distribution of P. talbotii are presented. The most important distinguishing morphological features of this species are: the size of the plant; dimensions and symmetry of the leaves; dimensions of cells and their areolation; entire leaf apex; and long decurrencies with some inflated cells. Additionally, we propose to place P. talbotii in section Plagiothecium, which is confirmed by genetic analysis and morphological features.
["Attu Island"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

﻿Taxonomic revision of the peculiar genus Xylopodia (Loasaceae) with a new species from Argentina and Bolivia demonstrating an atypical trans-Andean disjunction
Loasaceae subfam. Loasoideae are a nearly exclusively American plant group with a center of diversity in Peru. Numerous new taxa have been described over the past decades; one of the most striking discoveries was that of the narrowly endemic Xylopodia with the single species Xylopodia klaprothioides in Peru, Dpto. Cajamarca in 1997. Surprisingly, field studies in the past years have resulted in the discovery of material clearly belonging to the same genus in both Bolivia and northern Argentina, approximately 1500 km SE of the next known population of Xylopodia in Contumazá, Peru. A closer examination shows that Argentinian and Bolivian material belongs to a single species, clearly different from Xylopodia klaprothioides. We here describe Xylopodia laurensis and the entire genus is revised. Both species are illustrated, all aspects of their biology and ecology are portrayed and their threat status is discussed.

﻿Relationships among Calibrachoa, Fabiana and Petunia (Petunieae tribe, Solanaceae) and a new generic placement of Argentinean endemic Petunia patagonica
Calibrachoa Cerv., Fabiana Ruiz & Pav., and Petunia Juss. form a clade within tribe Petunieae (Solanaceae). Phylogenetic studies of Petunieae, either as part of a family-wide analysis or focusing on the genera Calibrachoa and Petunia, have either left Fabiana unsampled or included only a single species. These studies have found conflicting relationships among the three genera with all three possible topologies obtained. Petunia patagonica (Speg.) Millán, originally described in the genus Nierembergia Ruiz & Pav., is morphologically distinct within Petunia and geographically disjunct from other members of the genus. For the first time, in this study we include multiple species of Fabiana, Calibrachoa, and Petunia, including P. patagonica. Using three chloroplast DNA regions and the nuclear gene GBSSI, or “waxy,” our results provide strong support for a sister group relationship between Calibrachoa and Fabiana and for the placement of P. patagonica within Fabiana. Since there is already a species Fabiana patagonica Speg., we provide the new name Fabiana australis Alaria nom. nov. to replace Petunia patagonica.
["Fabiana australis"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Primula longipilosa (Primulaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Primula longipilosa from SW Yunnan, China, is described as a species new to science and illustrated. The systematic placement of this new species is also discussed based on an nrITS molecular tree. It is morphologically most similar to P. mollis, but differs from the latter in its racemose inflorescence, green calyx tube, pink to pink rose corolla, stamens at 1/3 length above the base of the corolla tube and applanate globose capsule.
["Morphological characteristics"]

﻿Tectaria danangensis (Tectariaceae), a new fern species from Vietnam
A new fern species, Tectaria danangensis (Tectariaceae) from Vietnam, which had long been misreported as T. crenata, is described and illustrated. The new species resembles T. poilanei, a species long neglected in the fern flora of Indochina, in the frond shape and sori arrangement, but differs by its irregularly 2-rowed sori (versus regularly 2-rowed, distantly and evenly arranged) between lateral veins of pinnae, fronds being more or less dimorphic (versus monomorphic) and basal pinnae each with a base-joined (versus free) lobe. Phylogenetic analyses of five plastid regions (atpB, ndhF + ndhF-trnN, rbcL, rps16-matK + matK and trnL-F) suggested T. danangensis has a close affinity to T. harlandii. Tectaria danangensis appears to be an intermediate species between T. harlandii and T. poilanei.
["Indochina"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿A new species of Ranunculus (Ranunculaceae) from Western Pamir-Alay, Uzbekistan
New data on the phylogeny of four rare and endemic species of Ranunculus L. sect. Ranunculastrum DC. of western Pamir-Alai, one of which is new to science, have been obtained. Ranunculus tojibaevii sp. nov., from the Baysuntau Mountains, Western Hissar Range of Uzbekistan, is described. The new species is closely related to R. botschantzevii Ovcz., R. convexiusculus Kovalevsk. and R. alpigenus Kom., but differs in the blade of the radical leaves, which is rounded-reniform, segments 3–5-dissected, each 2–5-partite with elongated, rounded apical lobes. A phylogenetic analysis, using both the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and cpDNA (matK, rbcL, trnL-trnF), was informative in placing R. tojibaevii in context with its most closely-related species. Discussion on the geographic distribution, updated identification key, a detailed description, insights about its habitat and illustrations are provided.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

﻿Rubus dianchuanensis sp. nov. (Rosaceae) from Sichuan and Yunnan, southwest China
Rubus dianchuanensis, a new name for the species previously named as R. vicarius by W. O. Focke in 1911, is proposed. A detailed description, illustrations, and remarks on its phenology, ecology, and geographic distribution are provided. This raspberry (subg. Idaeobatus) is endemic to China and was only found in Sichuan and Yunnan, southwest China. Morphologically, it is most similar to R. ovatisepalus but clearly differs from the latter by having leaf densely white or grey tomentose abaxially, usually leaf-like bracts at the base of inflorescence, 1–6 cm long pedicels, and triangular-ovate sepals with acute to caudate apex.
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Berry genetics and cultivation research", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

﻿Thorea baiyunensis sp. nov. (Thoreales, Rhodophyta) and T. okadae, a new record from China
The freshwater red algal order Thoreales has a triphasic life history, of which the “Chantransia” phase is a small filamentous sporophyte. The “Chantransia” stage is difficult to distinguish from species in the genus Audouinella by its morphological characteristics. In this study, five “Chantransia” isolates (GX41, GX81, GD224, GD225, GD228) were collected from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Guangdong Province in China. Based on morphological data, all five isolates were similar to A. pygmaea, whereas sequence data from the large subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (rbcL) gene and the 5’ region of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I gene (COI-5P) determined that these specimens represented the “Chantransia” stage of two species in the genus Thorea rather than Audouinella. Phylogenetic analyses of the concatenated genes supported the proposal of a new species, T. baiyunensis, and a new geographic record of T. okadae, a species previously described only in Japan. Therefore, combined with previous records, four species of this genus are now recognized in China, including T. hispida, T. violacea, T. baiyunensis and T. okadae.
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

﻿Actinostephanus (Gesneriaceae), a new genus and species from Guangdong, South China
Actinostephanus, a new genus from southern China, is described and colorfully illustrated with a single species, A. enpingensis. This new genus is morphologically most similar to Boeica and Leptoboea, nevertheless, it can be easily distinguished from the latter two by the following characteristics, such as leaves in whorls of three, all closely clustered at the top; corolla bowl-shaped, 5-lobed, actinomorphic; capsule hard, oblong-ovoid, short, 3–4 mm long, densely appressed villous, wrapped by persistent densely pubescent calyx lobes, style persistent. The new genus and related genera were sequenced using the next-generation sequencing technique. The whole plastid genome of the new genus is 154, 315 – 154, 344 bp in length. We reconstructed phylogenetic trees using the dataset of 80 encoded protein genes of the whole plastid genome from 47 accessions based on ML and BI analyses. The result revealed that the new genus was recovering in a polytomy including Boeica, Rhynchotechum, and Leptoboea with strong support, congruent to the morphological evidence. A global conservation assessment was also performed and classifies A. enpingensis as Least Concern (LC). In addition, after a review of recently described species of Gesneriaceae, we propose that plant enthusiasts, especially Gesneriad fans, have been playing an increasingly important role in the process of new taxa-discoveries.
["Boeica"]

﻿Elsholtzia zhongyangii (Lamiaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
Elsholtzia zhongyangii (Lamiaceae), a new species from Sichuan Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to E. feddei f. feddei, but it can be easily distinguished from E. feddei f. feddei by smaller corolla (3.2–3.5 mm vs. 4.5–5.3 mm), bract indumentum (glabrous, except margin ciliate vs. villous, especially on veins abaxially, glabrous adaxially) and bract stalked (ca. 1.2 mm vs. sessile). Phylogenetic analyses, based on two nuclear ribosomal (ETS, ITS) and five plastid (rbcL, matK, trnL-F, ycf1, ycf1-rps15) regions, confirmed that the new species formed a monophyletic clade with robust support. The new species is currently known from western Sichuan.
["Aromatic plant"]

﻿Townsendia lemhiensis (Asteraceae, Astereae): A narrowly endemic new species from Idaho, USA
Townsendia lemhiensis (Asteraceae) is described from the Lemhi Valley of east-central Idaho. From a genus with weak intrinsic isolating barriers, T. lemhiensis remains distinct apparently due to apomixis and to its isolation and habitat specialization on spatially limited occurrences of ashy white soils in the Lemhi Valley. Despite similarities to T. spathulata, this new species differs in its persistent pappus, fewer series of phyllaries and sericeous rather than long woolly hairs.
["Apomixis"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botanical Studies and Applications"]

﻿Orobanche ingens (Orobanchaceae) – a poorly known species of the Greater Caucasus: taxonomic problems, distribution, hosts and habitats
Orobanche ingens is an endemic species from the Caucasus, especially the Greater Caucasus, parasitising on large Apiaceae (usually Heracleum). This species was misclassified over the years and little was known about its range and habitats. Here, we clarify the typification, as well as provide notes about the taxonomy of this species. Additionally, we presented distribution, habit and host range of O. ingens and morphological features that distinguish it from similar species.

﻿Oreocharis phuongii (Gesneriaceae), a new species from central Vietnam
Oreocharis phuongii, a new species of Gesneriaceae from central Vietnam, is described and illustrated here. The new species is most similar to O. longifolia by sharing peduncles up to 22 cm long, bracts 2, zygomorphic, yellow flowers with tubular corolla, stamens 4 with two pairs of coherent anthers and capsules up to 6 cm long. It mainly differs from the latter by the combination of some morphological characters of leaves (shape, base, apex and margin), size of calyx lobes, indumentum of corolla tube and inner surface of three lower corolla lobes. Detailed morphological description together with colour illustration, information on phenology, distribution, ecology, preliminarily conservation status of the new species and comparison with its similar species are also presented.
["Annamite Range"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

﻿Impatiens liupanshuiensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Impatiens liupanshuiensis (Balsamianceae), belonging to I. subgen. Impatiens, is recognised as a new species from Guizhou, China and it is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to I. xanthocephala W.W. Sm. in its yellow flowers, extremely small basal lobes on lateral united petals, broadly-dolabriform distal lobes and funnelform lower sepal. However, it is distinctive in the number of lateral sepals, teeth on the margin of lateral sepals, the recurvature of the dorsal petal, the number of lateral veins, the shape and size of the lamina and the type of lamina margin. A detailed description of the new species and colour photographs are provided. Its geographical distribution and morphology are also compared to similar species.

﻿Torreya dapanshanica (Taxaceae), a new species of gymnosperm from Zhejiang, East China
Torreya dapanshanica X.F.Jin, Y.F.Lu & Zi L.Chen, a new species endemic to central Zhejiang, East China, is described and illustrated. This new species is most similar to T. jiulongshanensis (Z.Y.Li, Z.C.Tang & N.Kang) C.C.Pan, J.L.Liu & X.F.Jin, but differs in having leaves with an acuminate apex (vs. leaves with an acute apex), broadly ovoid-globose or globose seeds (vs. obovoid to narrowly obovoid seeds), slightly emarginate at the apex and obtuse-rounded at the base (vs. both acute at the apex and base), testa with irregular shallow grooves (vs. testa smooth or sometimes slightly concave). The diagnostic characters are critically compared and an IUCN assessment for the risk to the new species is estimated.
["Gymnosperm"]

﻿Impatiens bijieensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from karst plateau in Guizhou, China
Impatiens bijieensis X.X. Bai & L.Y. Ren, sp. nov. from northwest Guizhou Province, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is distributed discontinuously in Jiulongshan, Dafang County and Dajiucaiping, Hezhang County, both of which are in the Wumeng Mountain area, a karst plateau landform. The new species is morphologically similar to I. pterosepala Hook.f., I. lasiophyton Hook.f. and I. leptocaulon Hook.f. in height and flower shape and it especially resembles I. lasiophyton in pilosity. However, it differs in its deep purplish-red flower, 2-lobed lower sepal apex and cylindrical capsule. A detailed description, colour photographs and a provisional IUCN Red List assessment are provided along with discussions of its geographical distribution, ecology and morphological relationships with other similar species.

﻿Two new freshwater species of the genus Achnanthidium (Bacillariophyta, Achnanthidiaceae) from Qingxi River, China
We describe two new Achnanthidium species, A. anhuense sp. nov. and A. qingxiense sp. nov., from Qingxi River, Anhui Province, China, based on light and scanning electron microscopy. Both species belong to the “A. pyrenaicum complex” of the Achnanthidium genus, based on their possession of transapically-elongated areolae and deflected external distal raphe fissures. A. anhuense sp. nov. has a slightly irregular linear-lanceolate valve with rounded or weakly protracted apices and a transapically rectangular or bow tie central area on the raphe valve. A. qingxiense sp. nov. has a linear-lanceolate valve with rounded apices and the axial area distinct expanded apices on the rapheless valve. Both species differ sufficiently from other similar species, based on valve outline, shape of the axial and central areas and striae density. These new species were all collected from stone substratum.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿An annotated checklist of the vascular plants of Taita Hills, Eastern Arc Mountain
Taita Hills forests are an ecological island within the Tsavo plains and are the northern-most part of the Eastern Arc Mountains in southeast Kenya. They are highly fragmented forests embedded in a mosaic of human settlements and farms on the slopes and hilltops. Despite their intensive degradation, they exhibit a high degree of plant diversity and endemism, and therefore are regarded as a biodiversity hotspot. In spite of their distinct importance to the biodiversity of the region as well as supporting the livelihoods of the surrounding communities, floristic studies in these hills have been finite. Through repetitive floral expeditions, herbarium records from the East African Herbarium (EA), Global Biodiversity Information (GBIF), and the Integrated Digitized Biocollections (iDigbio) databases, as well as plant lists from literature and monographs, we provide a comprehensive checklist of 1594 taxa representing 159 families, 709 genera, 1530 species, 39 subspecies, 27 varieties, and 2 hybrids. Out of these, 75 are endemic or near-endemic, 59 are exotic, and 83 are listed as either endangered or near endangered as evaluated in the IUCN Redlist. Zehneria tuberifera G.W.Hu & Q.F.Wang, a new species to science, which has previously been described, was also discovered from the Ngangao forest fragment. Information on the habit(s), habitat(s), and altitudinal range of each taxon is provided in this study. This checklist is an updated inventory of the vascular plants of the Taita Hills. It confirms the high plant diversity of the hills and provides a clear baseline for strategic conservation and sustainable management of plant resources and diversity under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

﻿Nicotiana gandarela (Solanaceae), a new species of ‘tobacco’ highly endangered from the Quadrilátero Ferrífero in Brazil
Nicotiana gandarela Augsten & Stehmann (Solanaceae), sp. nov., a small ’tobacco’ known only from one locality at Serra do Gandarela, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically characterized by its rosulate basal leaves, red corolla with a short tube not inflated at the apex, and the peculiar habitat, a shaded site under a rocky outcrop ledge along a forested stream. Phylogenetic analyses based on a combined dataset of nuclear (ITS) and plastid (ndhF, trnLF, and trnSG) DNA sequences revealed that the species belongs to the Nicotiana sect. Alatae and is sister to the clade with the remaining species in the section. A key for the identification of Brazilian species of the section is given. The unusual habitat, the small population size, and the intense pressure of mining activities in the surroundings made the species assessed as Critically Endangered (CR), needing conservation efforts to avoid its extinction.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿A natural hybrid of Sindora (Fabaceae, Detarioideae) from Singapore
Sindora × changiensis L.M.Choo, Loo, W.F.Ang & K.Er is a new hybrid from the subfamily Detarioideae in Fabaceae. This is the first reported instance of natural hybridisation in Sindora. Based on population genetics analyses using ddRAD and morphological observations, this taxon represents a fertile hybrid between Sindora coriacea and Sindora echinocalyx. This new hybrid is so far only known to occur naturally from Changi at the north-eastern coast of Singapore. It has pods that are sparsely spiny. This is intermediate between the smooth, non-spiny pods of S. coriacea, and the densely spiny pods of S. echinocalyx. The calyx is smooth and unarmed, resembling S. coriacea. Last but not least, the ovary is entirely pubescent, different from S. coriacea and S. echinocalyx. The ovary of S. coriacea has a glabrous patch in the middle, while that of S. echinocalyx has minute spines protruding from the dense pubescence. A taxonomic description and an updated key to the Sindora of Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia are also provided.
["Caesalpinioideae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

﻿Two new species of Navicula (Bacillariophyta) from Southeast Asia
We present light and scanning electron microscopical observations on two new species of Navicula Bory sensu stricto from Southeast Asia. Navicula winoniformis Chudaev, Glushchenko, Kulikovskiy & Kociolek, sp. nov. differs from taxa with similar outline and size by the combination of simple drop-like external raphe endings deflected to the primary valve side, presence of well-developed external longitudinal grooves and relatively low lineolae density. Navicula sparsilineolata Chudaev, Glushchenko, Kulikovskiy & Kociolek, sp. nov. can be discriminated from the taxa of similar valve shape and size by consistently lower lineolae density, and from the majority of them also by the structure of external proximal raphe endings with small projections in proximal parts and larger triangular insertions in distal parts. Some remarks on Navicula species diversity and its distribution in the Southeast Asia are given.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

﻿Allium heterophyllum (Amaryllidaceae), a new species from Henan, China
Allium heterophyllum D.F.Xie & X.J.He, sp. nov. (Amaryllidaceae), is a new species from Henan, China and is described based on morphological and molecular evidence. It is morphologically most similar to A. dumebuchum in the rhomboid scape in cross-section. However, distinctive differences were detected in perianth color, leaf shape and cross-section, flowers’ density as well as flowering season. Similarly, the karyotype of A. heterophyllum is 2n = 2x = 16 and in A. dumebuchum is 2n = 4x = 32. Phylogenetic analysis based on nuclear ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS) and three cpDNA regions strongly supports that A. heterophyllum is a member of Allium section Rhizirideum and sister to the other species of this section (e.g. A. senescens, A. spirale, and A. prostratum). Currently, only one population and approximately 120 individuals were discovered; the development of scenic spots in this region may affect its growth and threaten this population. Therefore, this new species is preliminarily considered as Near Threatened (NT) according to criteria of the IUCN Red List.
["Allium"]

﻿Two new species of Drymonia (Gesneriaceae) from Northwestern South America, including the discovery of the longest flower known in the genus
Two new species, Drymonia intermedia Clavijo & J.L.Clark, sp. nov. and D. longiflora J.L.Clark & Clavijo, sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae, Columneinae), are described from the western Andean slopes of Ecuador and Colombia. The new species are similar to D. fimbriata, D. laciniosa, D. macrophylla, and D. peponifera because of the facultative epiphytic habit, deeply serrate to laciniate calyx margins, and fleshy bivalved capsules with tardily dehiscent endocarps. Leaves with brochidodromous venation, narrowly elongate corolla tube, and laciniate calyx margins differentiate D. intermedia. The longest corolla of any known Drymonia (> 6.5 cm long) differentiates D. longiflora. Digital photographs, geographic distributions, and IUCN categories are provided for the new species.

﻿Silene vanchingshanensis (Caryophyllaceae) a new species from Southwest China
Silene vanchingshanensis (Caryophyllaceae), a new species from Fanjingshan Mountain in Guizhou (southwest China) is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to S. morrisonmontana and S. hupehensis, from which it can be easily distinguished by having pubescent stems usually 10–15 cm long, linear-oblanceolate leaves 3–6 cm × 3–6 mm, often 2–5-flowered cymes, pink or violet petals and narrowly ovoid capsules.

﻿Pitcairnia abscondita (Pitcairnioideae, Bromeliaceae), a hidden novelty from north-western Jalisco, Mexico
Pitcairnia abscondita sp. nov., known until now only from the Municipalities of Cabo Corrientes, Mascota, Puerto Vallarta, San Sebastián del Oeste and Talpa de Allende in the State of Jalisco, Mexico, is here described and illustrated. The new taxon was confused with P. imbricata for long time, but differs from this species by its green floral bracts with the apex divergent to spreading (vs. red and appressed) and by the appendiculate at the base chartreuse-green petals (vs. not appendiculate yellow petals). Images and a distribution map of the taxa are presented.
["Jalisco north coast"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Capparis (Capparaceae) in Peninsular Malaysia, including a new species and two new varieties
As part of the Flora of Peninsular Malaysia Project, a species checklist of the genus Capparis in Peninsular Malaysia is presented here with a total of 11 species, two subspecies and four varieties. A new species and two varieties, endemic to Peninsular Malaysia, are described and illustrated: Capparis kenaboiensis, C. scortechinii var. ruthiae and C. trinervia var. chungiana. Capparis kenaboiensis is known from a single site in Negeri Sembilan and is assessed as Vulnerable (VU); C. scortechinii var. ruthiae from Pahang is Vulnerable (VU); and Capparis trinervia var. chungiana is known from Negeri Sembilan, Pahang and Selangor and its conservation status is assessed as Near Threatened (NT). A checklist and updated key to the genus in Peninsular Malaysia are provided.
["Brassicales"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Valeriana praecipitis (Caprifoliaceae), a species new to science and endemic to Central Chile
The species Valeriana praecipitis (Caprifoliaceae), new to science and endemic to the Ñuble Region, Central Chile, is formally described. Morphological data support its placement in a new species, clearly different from V. philippiana. A detailed description, insights about its habitat and ecology, distribution map and illustration are provided. A table of comparison is also given with the morphological characters discriminating V. praecipitis from V. philippiana. The species is assessed as Endangered (EN) under the IUCN categories.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿Ligularia monocephala (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a remarkable new species from Hubei, China
Ligularia monocephala, a remarkable new species from Hubei, China, is described and illustrated. It is readily distinguishable in the whole genus by character combination of the reniform to cordate-reniform leaf blades which are palmately-pinnately veined and abaxially purplish red, the solitary and erect capitula, and the pappus which are as long as or slightly longer than tube of the tubular corolla. A detailed description and distribution map of the species are also presented herein.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

﻿Ultrastructure of three Species of Entomoneis (Bacillariophyta) from Lake Qinghai of China, with reference to the external areola occlusions
Three sympatric Entomoneis species, found at the same specific locality in Lake Qinghai, China, are studied by using light and scanning electron microscope. Two species are proposed as new to science and named as E. sinensis sp. nov. and E. qinghainensis sp. nov. The third species is identified as E. paludosa (W. Smith) Reimer. Entomoneis sinensis has a linear-lanceolate valve outline and Ƨ-shaped keel, bears two distinct 8-shaped loops formed by the valvocopula pars media in each cell and each of its stria is composed of either a long hymen strip or a long hymen strip plus one separated areola close to the raphe. Its hymen strip belongs to Type Two, which is a siliceous membrane strip perforated by two rows of linear pores next to transapical costae and two rows of rounded pores between these two rows of linear pores. Entomoneis qinghainensis has large cells, very high keel and evident hymen strip regions like a U-shaped neck pillow at the middle of valve face. Its hymen strip belongs to Type One, which is a siliceous membrane strip perforated by irregularly distributed round pores. Entomoneis paludosa also has the hymen strip regions that are worm-like and close to the raphe canal. Its hymen strip is same as that of E. qinghainensis. The two kinds of the outside areola occlusions in Entomoneis are compared, summarised and discussed.
["brackish water"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

﻿Pulvinatusia (Brassicaceae), a new cushion genus from China and its systematic position
The new genus and species Pulvinatusia xuegulaensis (Brassicaceae) are described and illustrated. The species is a cushion plant collected from Xuegu La, Xizang, China. Its vegetative parts are most similar to those of Arenaria bryophylla (Caryophyllaceae) co-occurring in the same region, while its leaves and fruits closely resemble those of Xerodraba patagonica (Brassicaceae) from Patagonian Argentina and Chile. Family-level phylogenetic analyses based on both nuclear ITS and plastome revealed that it is a member of the tribe Crucihimalayeae, but the infra-/intergeneric relationships within the tribe are yet to be resolved.
["Crucihimalayeae"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

﻿Molecular and morphological evidence for a new species of Pogostemon (Lamiaceae) from Hainan Island, China
Pogostemon hainanensis, a new species of Lamiaceae from Hainan Island, China, is described. The phylogenetic position of the new species within Pogostemon was investigated based on analyses of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and five plastid markers (viz. matK, psbA-trnH, rbcL, rsp16, trnL-F). The results show that P. hainanensis is supported to be a member of subgenus Pogostemon and is sister to P. parviflorus, a species widely distributed from Eastern Himalaya, through the Indo-China peninsula to China. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from all the other taxa of subgenus Pogostemon in having long petioles usually 4.5‒11.5 cm in length, and the calyx teeth 2/3 to subequal as long as the calyx tube. The new species differs from P. parviflorus further by its obviously double serrate leaf margin, spikes of inflorescence usually 2.5–8.0 cm long, calyx 4‒5 mm long and corolla 6–7 mm long.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

﻿Achnanthidium bratanense sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Achnanthidiaceae), a new diatom from the Lake Bratan (Bali, Indonesia)
A new species, Achnanthidium bratanense, is described from Lake Bratan, located on the island of Bali (Indonesia). The morphology of this species was analyzed with light (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A. bratanense is characterized by linear-elliptic to nearly elliptic valves with convex margins and rounded, broadly subcapitate apices. The striae of this species are hardly discernable under LM; they are weakly radiate throughout the valve and composed of one to four large transapically elongated areolae of different length and shape. The most similar taxon to A. bratanense is A. macrocephalum, a species described from Sumatra, another Indonesian island. The differences of A. bratanense from similar taxa are discussed.
["Indonesia"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿Nicotiana rupicola sp. nov. and Nicotiana knightiana (sect. Paniculatae, Solanaceae), a new endemic and a new record for the flora of Chile
Nicotiana knightiana is recorded for the first time for the flora of Chile. A new species of Nicotiana, endemic to the coast of the Coquimbo region is described and illustrated. Molecular analysis placed the new species within the N. sect. Paniculatae, as sister to N. cordifolia, an endemic to Juan Fernandez islands. The new species can be considered critically endangered (CR) according to the IUCN categories due to its restricted and fragmented distribution, small population number, and the threat that urbanization and mining activities represent for the conservation of the biodiversity of the area.
["Coquimbo"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

﻿The rediscovery of Carya poilanei (Juglandaceae) after 63 years reveals a new record from China
Despite having been first published in 1941, Carya poilanei (A.Chev.) J.-F.Leroy is only known from three collections in Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. It has not been recollected since then and was long suspected to have become extinct through repeated deforestation events. Here, we report the rediscovery, and meanwhile the first new record in China, of this extremely rare gigantic hickory species at Yunnan province 63 years after its last collection in 1958. Three small patchy subpopulations were found with a total of about 50 adult trees having diameter at breast height (DBH) larger than 60 cm, together with some seedlings and saplings, but the fruit set was low. Based on new and fresh material, we present a revised morphological description of C. poilanei, and an updated distribution map for the species. In addition, we also provide a key for the hickories in China. Lastly, we suggest C. poilanei should be listed as a Critically Endangered (CR) species according to the latest IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Ailao Mountains"]

﻿Molecular phylogeny and taxonomy of the Hydrangea serrata complex (Hydrangeaceae) in western Japan, including a new subspecies of H. acuminata from Yakushima
According to the contemporary classification of Hydrangea native to Japan, H. serrata is a polymorphic species including six varieties. We discovered a plant identified as H. serrata, but morphologically distinct from previously known varieties, in Yakushima island where approximately 50 endemic species are known. To determine the relationship of this plant with previously known varieties, we examined morphology and constructed a highly resolved phylogeny of H. serrata and its relatives using three chloroplast genomic regions, rbcL, trnL intron, psbA-trnH, and two nuclear genomic regions, ITS1 and ITS2, and Multiplex ISSR genotyping by sequencing (MIG-seq). Based on these morphological and phylogenetic observations, we describe Hydrangea acuminata subsp. yakushimensis subsp. nov. as a newly discovered lineage in Yakushima, Japan and propose Hydrangea minamitanii stat. nov. and Hydrangea acuminata subsp. australis stat. nov. which were previously treated as varieties of H. serrata.
["cpDNA"]
["Synthesis and Biological Activity", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Notes on Carex (Cyperaceae) from China (VIII): five new species and a new variety from southern and south-western China
Our field surveys and specimen examination of Carex from southern to south-western regions in China resulted in the discovery of five new species and one new variety, which are here named as Carex brevihispida X.F.Jin & Y.F.Lu (in sect. Surculosae), C. puberuliutriculata Y.F.Lu & X.F.Jin (sect. Clandestinae), C. paratatsiensis Y.F.Lu & X.F.Jin (sect. Aulocystis), C. huanjiangensis S.Yun Liang ex Y.F.Lu & X.F.Jin (sect. Decorae), C. liangiana X.F.Jin & Y.F.Lu and C. thibetica Franch. var. angustifolia X.F.Jin & Y.F.Lu (sect. Rhomboidales).
["Carex"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿ Carex malipoensis (Cyperaceae), a new species from southeast Yunnan, China
Carex malipoensis, a new species from southeast Yunnan, China, is here described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to C. trichophylla in sect. Euprepes, but differs from it by its longer inflorescences and peduncles, pendulous spikes, hispidulous female glumes, densely hispidulous utricles, and longer nutlets.
["Carex sect. Euprepes"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

﻿Species discrimination of novel chloroplast DNA barcodes and their application for identification of Panax (Aralioideae, Araliaceae)
Certain species within the genus Panax L. (Araliaceae) contain pharmacological precious ginsenosides, also known as ginseng saponins. Species containing these compounds are of high commercial value and are thus of particular urgency for conservation. However, within this genus, identifying the particular species that contain these compounds by morphological means is challenging. DNA barcoding is one method that is considered promising for species level identification. However, in an evolutionarily complex genus such as Panax, commonly used DNA barcodes such as nrITS, matK, psbA-trnH, rbcL do not provide species-level resolution. A recent in silico study proposed a set of novel chloroplast markers, trnQ-rps16, trnS-trnG, petB, and trnE-trnT for species level identification within Panax. In the current study, the discriminatory efficiency of these molecular markers is assessed and validated using 91 reference barcoding sequences and 38 complete chloroplast genomes for seven species, one unidentified species and one sub-species of Panax, and two outgroup species of Aralia L. along with empirical data of Panax taxa present in Vietnam via both distance-based and tree-based methods. The obtained results show that trnQ-rps16 can classify with species level resolution every clade tested here, including the highly valuable Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv. We thus propose that this molecular marker to be used for identification of the species within Panax to support both its conservation and commercial trade.
["Ginseng Biological Effects and Applications", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis"]

﻿Karyotype and genome size variation in white-flowered Eranthis sect. Shibateranthis (Ranunculaceae)
Comparative karyomorphological analyses of six out of the eight white-flowered species of Eranthis sect. Shibateranthis have been carried out. All studied specimens of E. byunsanensis, E. lobulata, E. pinnatifida, and E. stellata had a somatic chromosome number 2n = 16 with basic chromosome number x = 8. On the contrary, E. tanhoensis and E. sibirica had a basic chromosome number x = 7. The specimens of E. tanhoensis were diploid with 2n = 14, while the specimens of E. sibirica were polyploid with 2n = 42. Monoploid chromosome sets of the investigated diploid species had 4–5 metacentric chromosomes and 2–4 submetacentric/subtelocentric/acrocentric chromosomes. The highest level of interchromosomal asymmetry, estimated via CVCL, was found in E. byunsanensis and E. pinnatifida. The highest levels of intrachromosomal asymmetry (MCA) and heterogeneity in centromere position (CVCI) were found in E. lobulata and E. byunsanensis, while E. sibirica had the most symmetric karyotype. A multivariate PCoA analysis of basic karyotype parameters (2n, x, THL, CVCL, MCA, and CVCI) highlighted no overlap among species accessions, which was also confirmed by LDA. The average absolute monoploid DNA content (1Cx) of the 23 investigated samples of six Eranthis species varied from 9.26 ± 0.25 pg in E. sibirica to 15.93 ± 0.32 pg in E. stellata. Overall karyological affinity was highlighted between E. lobulata and E. stellata, on one side, and between E. byunsanensis and E. pinnatifida, on the other side. Interestingly, there was no significant correlation between total haploid (monoploid) chromosome length (THL) and 1Cx values in these species.
["Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant tissue culture and regeneration"]

﻿A new subspecies of Stellaria alsine (Caryophyllaceae) from Yakushima, Japan
An unknown taxon of Stellaria was discovered in Yakushima, a Japanese island known to harbor several endemic species. To determine the identity of this taxon, this study employed MIG-seq for the reconstruction of a finely resolved phylogenetic tree of the newly discovered taxon, along with some related species of Stellaria. The results showed that the newly discovered taxon is a relative of S. alsine. Based on this result, Stellaria alsine subsp. nana subsp. nov. was published.
["cpDNA"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies"]

A new species (Begonia giganticaulis) of Begoniaceae from southern Xizang (Tibet) of China
Begonia giganticaulis, a huge new species in Begonia sect. Platycentrum of Begoniaceae from southern Xizang (Tibet) of China, is described. Morphologically, it is mostly similar to B. longifolia and B. acetosella, but clearly differs from the former mainly by its dioecious and taller plants, sparse hairs on abaxial veins, longer inflorescence, unique shape of fruits, and differs from the latter mainly by its late and longer flowering time, 6-tepals of female flower and 3-loculed ovary. The phylogenetic analyses also support the separation of the new species from other taxa. Based on the current data, its conservation status is assigned to Endangered (B2a) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

﻿Two new species of Rubus L. (Rosaceae) from the western Andes of Ecuador
Two new species of Rubus (Rosaceae) from the western Andes of northern Ecuador are described. Rubus longistipularis D.A. Espinel-Ortiz & Romol. is a scandent or climbing shrub found in the mountain forests of Chocó Andino from northern Ecuador. Rubus maquipucunensis D.A. Espinel-Ortiz & Romol. is a vine or climbing shrub found in the rainforests of Chocó Andino from Pichincha and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas. The species mentioned here are morphologically differentiated from all the Rubus species from Ecuador with a detailed botanical description, illustrations and photographs. We also report, for the first time, possible hybridisation between R. longistipularis and R. boliviensis Focke, as the samples reviewed showed mixed characteristics from both species.
["Andean slopes"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Berry genetics and cultivation research", "Biochemical and biochemical processes"]

﻿Achnanthidium gladius sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae) – a new monoraphid diatom species from Indonesia
A new monoraphid diatom species Achnanthidium gladius sp. nov. is described from Indonesia. The description is based on molecular data (18SV4), morphological analysis and comparison with similar species. According to molecular data, Achnanthidium gladius sp. nov. is closely related to Achnanthidium minutissimum. Morphologically, the new species differs from similar species by the absence of a fascia on raphe valve, cell size, and striae density and pattern. The new species is only known from the type locality in Indonesia. Comparison with close related species is given.
["Achnanthidium"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

﻿A new combination in Pseudolappula (Boraginaceae, Rochelieae) based on morphological, molecular and palynological evidence
Lappula sinaica was recently transferred to the monotypic genus Pseudolappula based on phylogenetic studies, while the related species, L. occultata, has remained in the genus Lappula. In this study, morphological, molecular, and palynological evidence supports that L. occultata should be transferred to the genus Pseudolappula. Both L. occultata and P. sinaica share a combination of nutlets features that distinguish them from Lappula: a longer adaxial keel and a linear attachment scar. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS and trnL-F strongly supports L. occultata as the sister taxon of P. sinaica. In addition, pollen grains of these two species are 3-syncolporate with 3 alternating pseudocolpi, which is significantly different from the grains of Lappula taxa. Based on the above evidence, the new combination Pseudolappula occultata is proposed.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

﻿New and poorly known “araphid” diatom species (Bacillariophyta) from regions near Lake Titicaca, South America and a discussion on the continued use of morphological characters in “araphid” diatom taxonomy
Based on two Andean Altiplano samples and on light and scanning electron microscopy analyses, we present six new species of “araphid” diatoms in the genus Pseudostaurosira, P. aedes sp. nov., P. frankenae sp. nov., P. heteropolaris sp. nov., P. oblonga sp. nov., P. occulta sp. nov., and P. pulchra sp. nov. Additional data are provided for four other known taxa, Nanofrustulum cataractarum, N. rarissimum, P. sajamaensis and P. vulpina, the latter species corresponding to a stat. nov. based on a variety of P. laucensis. Each taxon is described morphologically and compared with closely related published taxa, using characters such as axial area, virgae, vimines, areolar shape, volae, internal striae depositions, spines, flaps and apical pore fields, which are not usually used for species distinction within the genus. It is our intention that the detailed morphological descriptions of each taxon and the elaborate comparative tables we provide serve as a basis for correction of neo and paleo-databases for the Altiplano to produce a better account of autecological data and ecological change in the region. Some arguments for our continued use of a morphologically based approach are given in the context of rapid environmental degradation in the Andes and the difficulties in applying molecular approaches in countries such as Bolivia.
["Andean mountains"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

﻿Primulina scutellifolia, a new species of Gesneriaceae from southern Vietnam
Primulina scutellifolia is described as a new species from Khanh Hoa Province, southern Central Vietnam. It is distinct in the genus in having scutellate leaves that make it a highly potential ornamental plant. The new species looks like P. annamensis in general shapes, sizes and colours of habit, inflorescence, flower, and leaf but is distinguishable by adaxially glabrous and abaxially strigose leaves with serrate margins, scutellate leaf blade and appressed downwards tomentose petiole, sparsely glandular hairs on apical 1/2 of the gynoecium and trapeziform one-lipped stigma with slightly emarginated apex.
["Gesneriaceae"]

﻿Phelypaea boissieri f. lutea (Orobanchaceae), a peculiar new form from Turkey and typification of the name of this species
The genus Phelypaea includes three holoparasite species with one of the most intense red flowers among all plants worldwide. So far, there are few references to other colour taxa of this genus. We describe a new yellow-coloured form, Phelypaea boissieri f. lutea, from Hakkari province in the Cilo Mountains of SE Turkey, found at an altitude of 2,470 m. In typical P. boissieri, here typified by us, the flowers are deeply red, and stems, calyx and scales are red to brown, or rarely pale-brown, whereas in the entire population of f. lutea the corolla, calyx, and scales are yellow to orange with black folds in the corolla, while only the stem is brownish.
["Forma nova"]

﻿Notes on Brazilian Pachira (Malvaceae, Bombacoideae) II: Additional typifications and new synonymies
The typification and status of the names of 14 species of Pachira (Malvaceae: Bombacoideae) found in Brazil are discussed, including type material from Brazil, the Guianas, Colombia, Venezuela, and cultivated in Algeria. We designate 11 lectotypes, three neotypes, and four epitypes for these names. Six names are newly considered to be synonyms of the species accepted here. The results support a forthcoming taxonomic treatment of Pachira for the Flora of Brazil.
["Bombacoideae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Banana Cultivation and Research"]

Taxonomic studies on the genus Isotrema (Aristolochiaceae) from China III: I. pseudohei, a new species from Yunnan, Southwest China
Isotrema pseudohei, a new species from Yunnan, Southwest China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to I. hei and I. moupinense, but differs from the former in the colour of flower and throat, the size of throat and the shape of gynostemium lobes, and from the latter in the shape of lamina and gynostemium lobes.
["Aristolochia"]
["Nephrotoxicity and Medicinal Plants", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ginger and Zingiberaceae research"]

﻿ Coleus (Lamiaceae) in Peninsular Malaysia including two new species
In Peninsular Malaysia, Coleus is represented by five species. Two, C. hairulii Kiew and C. rafidahiae Kiew, are new species. Both are narrowly endemic and restricted to limestone hills as is C. kunstleri (Prain) A.J.Paton. All three are Critically Endangered. Coleus scutellarioides (L.) Benth., although widespread, is probably not indigenous. It is also a common ornamental, while C. monostachyus (P.Beauv.) A.J.Paton is a recent introduction that has spread rapidly and threatens to become a troublesome weed.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

﻿Morphological and molecular evidence reveals three new species of Lithocarpus (Fagaceae) from Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park, Vietnam
Three new species, Lithocarpus bidoupensis Ngoc & Tagane, L. congtroiensis Ngoc & Yahara, and L. hongiaoensis Ngoc & Binh are described from Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park, Central Highland of Vietnam. Morphological analyses and Maximum likelihood tree based on genome-wide SNPs support the distinction of those species from the previously known taxa in the region. The three new species are considered to be endemic to the Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park and the preliminary conservation status for each species is evaluated as Critically Endangered.
["Fagales"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Materials to the revision of the genus Cranichis (Orchidaceae) in Bolivia
The diversity of Cranichis in Bolivia is evaluated. An updated key for identifying species is provided. Morphological characteristics of 15 species of Bolivian Cranichis are presented together with illustrations of their floral segments. The occurrence of C. diphylla, C. lehmannii, and C. muscosa in this country was not confirmed. In our opinion the previously published Bolivian record for C. polyantha is doubtful. For the first time, C. badia and C. longipetiolata are reported in this country. Two new species of Cranichis are described.
["Cranichidinae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Glossoloma wiehleri (Gesneriaceae), a new species from the northwestern Andes of Ecuador
A new species of Glossoloma is described from the western Andean slopes of the Pichincha Province in northern Ecuador. Glossoloma wiehleri J.L.Clark & Tobar is differentiated from all other congeners by an epiphytic habit, elongate scandent shoots that exceed four meters in length, and coriaceous leaves with a velutinous indument on the lower leaf surface. The new species is illustrated, featured with field images from recent expeditions, and assigned the category of Endangered (EN) according to IUCN Criteria.
["Ecuador"]

Primulina silaniae sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from the limestone area of Guizhou Province, China
Primulina silaniae X.X.Bai & F.Wen, a new species of Primulina Hance (Gesneriaceae) from the limestone area of Wangmo County, Guizhou Province, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to P. spiradiclioides Z.B.Xin & F.Wen, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by a combination of characteristics, especially in the lateral veins of its leaf and floral shape and tube. At present, three populations in one locality of this new taxon were found, totaling about 600 mature individuals. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (Version 3.1), the species is provisionally assessed as Vulnerable [VU D1].
["flora of Guizhou"]

Calceolaria flavida (Calceolariaceae) a new endemic species to central Chile
A new species of Calceolaria sect. Cheiloncos endemic to central Chile is described. A comparison with the morphologically similar species Calceolaria asperula and Calceolaria petioalaris is made, and a key as well as detailed images to differentiate them is provided. The species is only known from the Natural Sanctuary Cerro El Roble, which is part of the coastal mountain range of central Chile and can be considered as Critically Endangered (CR) under the IUCN categories and criteria.
["Chilean Mediterranean hotspot"]
["Complexity and Algorithms in Graphs", "Advanced Graph Theory Research", "Graph Theory and Algorithms"]

Studies in Austral Bryaceae (Bryopsida). III. A Preliminary Account with Keys to Rosulabryum J.R. Spence in Chile
A preliminary study of the genus Rosulabryum J.R. Spence in Chile is presented, with brief species descriptions, notes on ecology and distributions, and a taxonomic key. The following 12 species are confirmed with vouchered specimens; Rosulabryum andicola (Hook.) Ochyra, Rosulabryum billarderii (Schwägr.) J.R. Spence, Rosulabryum campylothecium (Taylor) J.R. Spence, Rosulabryum capillare (Hedw.) J.R. Spence, Rosulabryum coloratum (Müll. Hal.) J.R. Spence, Rosulabryum densifolium (Brid.) Ochyra, Rosulabryum longidens (Thér.) J.R. Spence, Rosulabryum macrophyllum (Cardot & Broth.) Ochyra, Rosulabryum perlimbatum (Cardot) Ochyra, Rosulabryum puconense (Herzog & Thér.) J.R. Spence, Rosulabryum rubens (Mitt.) J.R. Spence, and Rosulabryum torquescens (Bruch ex De Not.) J.R. Spence. Rosulabryum canariense (Brid.) Ochyra is tentatively excluded as the Chilean material can be referred to R. coloratum. Similarly, Rosulabryum viridescens (Welw. & Duby) Ochyra is tentatively excluded since the Chilean plants do not match the African type, but instead appear to be atypical plants of R. campylothecium.
["Bryaceae"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Causonis sessilifolia (Vitaceae), a new species from Thailand
A new species, Causonis sessilifolia, from Thailand is described, based on morphological and phylogenetical methods. A full description, conservation assessment, a key, images and phylogenetic tree are provided. Diagnostic characters for this species are sessile leaves that are sometimes opposite and inflorescence insertion interfoliar.
["Causonis"]

Lespedeza danxiaensis (Fabaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China, based on molecular and morphological data
Lespedeza danxiaensis (Fabaceae), a new species from Danxiashan National Nature Reserve in Guangdong Province, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to Lespedeza pilosa, but it can be easily distinguished by its thin leathery leaflets and long peduncles. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS confirmed that the new species belongs to Lespedeza subg. Macrolespedeza. The new species is the first known species of Lespedeza endemic to Danxia landform and is currently only known from Mount Danxia, Guangdong.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Rubus kaznowskii (Rosaceae), a new bramble species from south-central Poland
Based on field research in south-central Poland, supplemented with a review of herbarium materials, we identified a stable bramble biotype with a range large enough (190 km distance between the outermost stands) to be described as a new regional agamic species, Rubus kaznowskii sp.nov. It belongs to the series Subthyrsoidei(sect. Corylifolii). Although R. kaznowskii has a unique combination of features, it can be potentially mistaken for R. gothicus. It differs from the latter species in many aspects, including: pruinose primocanes, denser indumentum of the abaxial leaf surface, and more curved prickles on the petiole. R. kaznowskii has mainly been observed on rusty soils, in habitats of mixed coniferous and mixed broadleaf forests, usually in sunny places, along forest margins and roads, in clearings and roadside thickets.
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Botanical Studies and Applications", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Dryopteris wulingshanensis (Dryopteridaceae), a new species from Hunan, China
Dryopteris wulingshanensis, a new species growing on limestone in the Wulingshan Mountains, Hunan, China, is described and illustrated. This species is most similar to D. jishouensis and D. gymnophylla on general morphological traits, such as the form of scales, rhizome and sori, but differs by the number of vascular bundles at the base of the petiole, length to width ratio of lamina, stalk length of basal pinnae, division of the lamina, apex form of the pinnule and habitat. Moreover, molecular phylogenetic analysis using the chloroplast rbcL gene suggested that D. wulingshanensis, as the sister group of D. jishouensis, is a monophyletic clade. According to its restricted geographic range, small populations and few individuals, D. wulingshanensis should be considered endangered, according to the IUCN Red List criteria.

Living in extreme environments: distribution of Lycium humile (Solanaceae), an endemic halophyte from the Altiplano-Puna region, South America
Very few Solanaceae species are able to grow in saline soils; one of them is Lycium humile. This species is endemic to the Altiplano-Puna region (Central Andes, South America) where there are multiple extreme environmental conditions such as hypersaline soils. Here we present an updated description and distribution of L. humile including its new record for Bolivia at the edges of “Salar de Uyuni”, the largest salt flat in the world; we discuss its ecological role in saline environments by analyzing soil salinity and cover-abundance values ​​of the studied sites. According to IUCN criteria, we recommend a category of Least Concern for L. humile, but the growing development of lithium mining in saline environments of the Altiplano-Puna region may potentially threaten exclusive communities.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Spiradiclis detianensis (Rubiaceae, Ophiorrhizeae), a new species from southwestern Guangxi, China
A new species of Rubiaceae, Spiradiclis detianensis is described from a limestone karst area of southwestern China. This new species is morphologically similar to S. cordata and S. spathulata. All of them have rosetted habit and long peduncles, but it differs from the former by the cuneate leaf bases (vs. basally cordate) and much longer corolla tubes (1.8–2.2 cm long vs. ca. 5 mm long), and from the latter mainly by its tubular-funnel shaped corolla (vs. slenderly salver shaped), 4.5–6.8 (vs. 1.5–2) mm in diam, inside throat and corolla densely puberulent (vs. glabrous except a ring of long hairs at the middle). It also resembles to S. tubiflora, but differs clearly by its subrosulate habit (vs. procumbent to creeping), longer leaf blades (7.0–10.5 cm vs. 0.5–2.5 cm) and longer corolla tubes (18–22 mm vs. 14–16 mm). At same time, color photos, illustrations, detailed descriptions and conservation status of the new species are provided.

Two new species and a new combination from Zhejiang, East China
As the supplement of the flora of Zhejiang, East China, two new species were described with illustrations. Cerastium huadingense Y.F.Lu, W.Y.Xie & X.F.Jin (Caryophyllaceae) differs from C. qingliangfengicum in having sterile stems absent, leaves sessile, petals slightly longer than sepals, and stamens slightly shorter than sepals. Ixeridium dimorphifolium Y.L.Xu, Y.F.Lu & X.Cai (Asteraceae) differs from I. beauverdianum in having plant stoloniferous, basal leaves dimorphic, involucre 8‒10 mm long, inner phyllaries 8, and florets 7‒10. Paraphlomis setulosa C.Y.Wu & H.W.Li (Lamiaceae) was reviewed and morphological characters of the corolla and stamens of its type and the specimens collected in the field survey were critically examined. With barbate anthers and strongly divergent anther cells, Paraphlomis setulosa was transferred to Sinopogonanthera, and S. setulosa (C.Y.Wu & H.W.Li) H.W.Zhang & X.F.Jin was consequently combined.
["East China"]

Plagiothecium schofieldii, a new species from the Aleutian Islands (Alaska, USA)
Plagiothecium schofieldii sp. nov. is described from the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, U.S.A. Some morphological features of this species correspond to P. lamprostachys (Southern Hemisphere species); however, Plagiothecium schofieldii is genetically and morphologically different from this and other common Northern Hemisphere species e.g., P. denticulatum, P. platyphyllum, or P. ruthei. The most important distinguishing morphological features differentiating this species are: the arrangement of the leaves on the stem; dimensions, concavity and symmetry of the leaves; dimensions of cells and their areolation; orientation of capsules. Additionally, due to the strong concavity of the leaves, they are very often badly damaged under the microscope. We present the results of DNA research of the analyzed samples, and a detailed description of the morphological features. The new species is illustrated, and its ecological preferences and currently known geographical distribution are presented. Additionally, the authors propose to add this species to Plagiothecium section, which is confirmed by morphological features and genetic analysis.
["Bryophyta"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Genetic diversity of Salix lapponum populations in Central Europe
Salix lapponum is a cold-tolerant relict species in Europe that occurs in several sites, probably reflecting previous migration routes of S. lapponum during the Pleistocene. However, only a few data are available on the genetic structures of populations of S. lapponum. In this study, we use PCR-ISSR markers to investigate genetic variation in 19 European populations of S. lapponum L. AMOVA analysis shows that most of the variation (55.8%) occurs within populations; variability among groups accounts for 19.7%. An AMOVA analysis based on four groups determined by STRUCTURE analysis shows similar results: variability of 54.1% within the population and variability of 18.9% between the four population groups, based on geographic regions. Within individual geographic groups, which are characterised by the studied populations, the lowest variability (as well as the highest homogeneity) was found in populations located in Belarus. The obtained results are consistent with our expectations that the European Lowland could be a significant geographic barrier for gene flow over large geographic distances for S. lapponum. Both the Scandinavian and Belarusian populations, as well as those coming from NE Poland, are characterised by significant genetic distinctiveness. However, some populations from NE Poland and the Sudetes show similarities with populations from other geographic regions, indicating existing genetic relationships between them. Moreover, the results suggest a fairly clear division of the population into 4 emerging geographic regions, although separated by a geographical barrier: the Polish lowland, which forms part of the larger geographic unit known as the European Lowland.
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies"]

Updated description of Diospyros dussaudii Lecomte (Ebenaceae), with lectotypification and notes on its distribution
Diospyros dussaudii is a poorly known species and previous descriptions lacked details about its female flowers and fruits. The species had not been recorded since type collections were made in 1913. As a result of our Diospyros research in Thailand, new specimens and data are now available for this species. In this study, we provide an updated morphological description, illustrations, lectotypification and a distribution map. The species was previously reported to be endemic to Laos; as such, the occurrences in Thailand greatly expand the distribution of the species. In addition, we analysed the phylogenetic relationships between D. dussaudii and other Diospyros species from Southeast Asia and other regions, using DNA sequence data from eight plastid regions. Our phylogenetic analyses indicate that D. dussaudii is closely related to D. castanea, D. dasyphylla and D. insidiosa. Their taxonomic affinities are discussed.
["Dioecy"]

A new species of Epidendrum L. (Orchidaceae) of pendulous habit from Peru
A new species of Epidendrum L. from northern Peru is described, illustrated, and compared with related species. This new species belongs to the Laxicaule Group and shares morphological characteristics with Epidendrum laxicaule D.E. Benn & Christenson but differs in the shape and length of the dorsal sepal; the shape of the petals and the lip, ribs position of the lip, shape of the vesicle formed between the ovary and the column as well as the section of the stem.
["Cajamarca"]

Vitis shizishanensis, a new species of the grape genus from Hubei province, China
Vitis shizishanensis (Vitaceae), a new species from Hubei, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to V. flexuosa and V. bryoniifolia, but differs in leaf lobing and pubescence. It can be easily distinguished from the two species based on its glabrous or with very sparse arachnoid tomentum on the abaxial mature leaf surface, and its unlobed to 3–7 lobed leaves. A detailed description, along with photographs for the new species, and a table for morphological comparisons with similar Vitis species, are also provided.
["Grape"]
["Horticultural and Viticultural Research", "Fermentation and Sensory Analysis", "Plant and animal studies"]

Notes on the systematics of Cuscuta sect. Subulatae (subg. Grammica) with the description of Cuscuta mantiqueirana, a new species from Brazil
Cuscuta mantiqueirana Costea, S.S. Silva & Sim.-Bianch. a new species from montane cloud forests of the Serra da Mantiqueira, Brazil, is described and illustrated. The morphological and phylogenetic analyses revealed that the new species belongs to sect. Subulatae of subg. Grammica. The new species is related to C. odorata var. botryoides, C. rotundiflora and C. globiflora from which it differs in narrower calyx lobes and the presence of four stomatiferous lobes or projections at the distal part of the ovary. A detailed morphological comparison with C. odorata var. botryoides, morphologically the most similar taxon, is provided along with the geographical distribution, ecology and host range of the species. The morphological and phylogenetic relationships of the new species, as well as the diversity of stomatiferous projections, are discussed in the broader context of sect. Subulatae and subg. Grammica. Cuscuta boliviana var. paranensis is considered a synonym of C. odorata var. botryoides.
["Convolvulaceae"]

Saxifraga viridiflora (Saxifragaceae), an unusual new species from Guangxi, China
Saxifraga viridiflora, a remarkable new species of the genus Saxifraga sect. Irregulares (Saxifragaceae) from Guangxi, is described and illustrated herein. This new species morphologically differs from all known S. sect. Irregulares taxa by its greenish petals, verruculose sepals, and thick leathery leaf blade abaxially scarlet with white spots.

Marine and brackish Luticola D.G.Mann (Bacillariophyta) species from the Java Sea and South China Sea coasts with the description of three new species
In this study, samples were collected from the Java Sea coasts, from the South China Sea in Hainan Island coasts and Quảng Yên region and Rú Chá mangrove near Hue in Central Vietnam. In studied samples a total of eight Luticola species have been observed. Three of the taxa studied are described herein as species new to science – Luticola orientalis sp. nov., L. cribriareolata sp. nov. and L. halongiana sp. nov. Under light microscopy (LM) L. orientalis sp. nov. and L. cribriareolata sp. nov. are similar with rhombic-lanceolate to rhombic/ elliptic-lanceolate to elliptic valve shapes and narrowly rounded apices. Both species can be easily distinguished by stria density (higher density in L. orientalis). Under SEM L. cribriareolata is characterized by cribrate areola occlusions, a character thus far observed only in three established species. The remaining species of the whole genus known thus far are characterized by hymenate areola. Similar morphology Luticola species have been observed from tropical mangrove forests from Madagascar but they all can be easily distinguished based on the lack of grooves in the central area. The third species – L. halongiana sp. nov. has rhombic-elliptic to rhombic-lanceolate valves with broadly rounded to slightly protracted apices in larger specimens. This species has a relatively broad central area. Also unique among brackish-water Luticola is the small, rounded stigma positioned almost midway between the valve center and valve margin. In the habitats from which the new species are described we also identified five established Luticola taxa including, L. belawanensis, L. celebesica, L. inserata, L. seposita and L. tropica. For those species we provide detailed SEM characteristics of valve ultrastructure, as well as the range of environmental conditions and geographic distribution within the study area.
["Brackish waters"]

Hemiboea chanii (Gesneriaceae), a new species from limestone areas of northern Vietnam
Hemiboea chanii, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Ha Giang Province, northern Vietnam, is here described and illustrated. It has many branched stems, diamond-shaped involucre with two cirrose opposite apices, a pink corolla, red spotted inside, and a flowering time in January-February. Among congeners with an externally hairy corolla, this new species is morphologically close to H. crystallina and H. sinovietnamica. Diagnostic discriminative characters in all mentioned species are discussed. The conservation status of this species is considered to be “Critically endangered” (CR) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Cymbopleura natellia – a new species from Transbaikal area (Russia, Siberia) described on the basis of molecular and morphological investigation
A new cymbelloid diatom species from the genus Cymbopleura (Krammer) Krammer is described on the basis of molecular and morphological investigations. Cymbopleura natellia Glushchenko, Kulikovskiy & Kociolek, sp. nov. is, on the basis of results with molecular data, close to C. naviculiformis (Auerswald ex Heiberg) Krammer. The two species differ both by molecular distance and morphological features. Morphologically, C. natellia sp. nov. is compared with several other species in the genus. This work is a pioneer investigation of cymbelloid taxa using molecular tool from Transbaikal area.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Geological Studies and Exploration"]

Perrottetia taronensis B.M.Barthol. & K.Armstr., sp. nov. (Dipentodontaceae), a new species from northwestern Yunnan Province, China and northern Kachin State, Myanmar and a re-examination of the Asian and Australasian taxa of Perrottetia
Perrottetia taronensis from the Dulong Jiang valley in northwestern Yunnan Province, China and the Babulongtan mountain range in northern Kachin State, Myanmar is here described as a new species of the Dipentodontaceae. It is the third species of the genus to be recognized for China and the first to be reported for Myanmar. It is similar to P. alpestris s.s. but differs by characters of its leaf margins, inflorescences, and fruit. The three subspecies of P. alpestris recognized by Hou in “Flora Malesiana” are here recognized as three distinct species, i.e., P. alpestris, P. moluccana, and P. philippinensis on the basis of differences in diagnostic characters and distribution. The report in the “Flora of China” of the Taiwan species P. arisanensis from Yunnan is determined to be incorrect due to misidentification of two specimens at KUN.
["Huerteales"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Cirsium taiwanense (Compositae, Cirsium sect. Onotrophe, subsect. Australicirsium), a new species from Taiwan
A new species of Cirsium, C. taiwanense Y.H.Tseng & Chih Y.Chang from central-northern Taiwan is reported in this article. This species is similar to C. hosokawae Kitam. in having a densely cobwebby abaxial leaf surface, but differs in its yellow (vs. vivid purplish red) corolla and the angle between the midrib and the lateral veins of the leaf, which is acute as opposed to nearly at a right angle in C. hosokawae. Cirsium taiwanense has 2n = 32 chromosomes, which is different from the other species in the Taiwanese subsect. Australicirsium Kitam. (2n = 34). An identification key to the Cirsium taxa of Taiwan is presented.
["Australicirsium Kitam."]
["Silymarin and Mushroom Poisoning", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

Euphorbia mbuinzauensis, a new succulent species in Kenya from the Synadenium group in Euphorbia sect. Monadenium (Euphorbiaceae)
Euphorbia mbuinzauensis, a succulent new species of the Synadenium group in Euphorbiaceae from Makueni County, Kenya, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it is most similar to E. pseudomollis, but differs mainly by its shrubby habit (up to 4 m), abaxial leaves surfaces with densely stellate hairs, 2–4-forked cymes, smaller bracts (ca. 2.5 × 3.0 mm), smaller cyathia (6 mm wide), crimson glands without narrow smooth margin, smaller fruits (ca. 8 × 7 mm) and ovoid seeds (ca. 1.8 × 2.2 mm). Furthermore, we performed a molecular phylogenetic analysis of the Synadenium group in Euphorbia sect. Monadenium, based on complete nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) datasets. This phylogenetic inference also supports it to be a distinct species. The new species is assessed as Endangered using the IUCN criteria.
["East Africa"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Haplodontium altunense (Bryaceae, Bryopsida), a new moss species from Northwest China
Haplodontium altunense X.R.Wang & S.Mamtimin, a new moss species of the family Bryaceae from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China is described and illustrated. Genetic analysis based on ITS sequences shows that this species is a member of the Bryaceae and in the same clade as Anomobryum. Particularly distinctive features of the new species include: double peristome; the exostome has raised and membranous chomata with united lamellae between two teeth proximally; the endostome is poorly developed and all the endostomial material tightly adherent to the exostome.
["Altun Mountain"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Corybas papillatus (Orchidaceae), a new orchid species from peninsular Thailand
A new species, Corybas papillatus, is described and illustrated from peninsular Thailand. The new species is easily recognized through a combination of the following characters: the purplish flower, the rounded apex of the dorsal sepal, the outer surface of dorsal sepal covered with irregular papillae in the upper half, the lateral sepals adnate laterally at the base to the connate petals, the V-shaped throat, the labellum bearing short hairs, dentate to erose labellum margins, and well-developed conical spurs. A key to the species of Corybas in Thailand is presented.
["Helmet orchid"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Begonia pseudoedulis, a new species in Begonia sect. Platycentrum (Begoniaceae) from southern Guangxi of China
Begonia pseudoedulis, a new species in Begonia sect. Platycentrum (Klotzsch) A.DC. (Begoniaceae) from southern Guangxi of China, is here described and illustrated. It morphologically resembles B. edulis H.Lév. and B. dielsiana E.Pritz. ex Diels but differs easily by its hairy petioles and inflorescences, and red hispidulous flower tepals, ovary and capsules. The molecular phylogenetic analysis based on ITS supported that the new species was a monophyletic lineage, separating from both B. dielsiana and B. edulis. Due to its isolated distribution with several small populations, which are possibly disturbed by human activities, the species is considered as “Near Threatened” (NT) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Molecular evidence"]

Indigofera wenholdiae (Indigofereae, Fabaceae), a new species from the Western Cape Province, South Africa
In this study, Indigofera wenholdiae, a new species of Fabaceae from the Agulhas Plain Region of the Western Cape Province, South Africa, is described. A composite photographic plate is included along with a distribution map, description of habitat and ecology and proposed IUCN conservation status. Indigofera wenholdiae is unique in the I. brachystachya group by having digitately compound (vs. pinnately compound) leaves, white and unscented flowers (vs. pink and sweetly scented flowers) and grows on sandstone hillsides (vs. coastal limestone plains and outcrops).
["Indigofera"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Three new species of Columnea (Gesneriaceae) from the western Andean slopes of Ecuador and Colombia
Three new species of Columnea (Gesneriaceae, tribe Gesnerieae) are described from the western Andean slopes of northern Ecuador and southern Colombia. Columnea angulata J.L. Clark & F. Tobar and Columnea floribunda F. Tobar & J.L. Clark are described from northern Ecuador. Columnea tecta J.L. Clark & Clavijo is described from southern Colombia and northern Ecuador. The three new species are facultative epiphytes with dorsiventral shoots and are readily recognized by bright red tips on the abaxial and adaxial leaf surfaces. The species described here are vegetatively similar to the sympatric species Columnea picta H. Karst. and are readily differentiated by floral features that are illustrated, described and featured with digital images.

Cyclorhiza puana (Apiaceae), a new species from Sichuan, China
A new species, Cyclorhiza puana J. Zhou & Z.W. Liu (Apiaceae) from Sichuan Province of China, is described and illustrated here. Morphological comparisons with congeneric species revealed that it is distinguished by its slender habit, sparse annular scars, 4-pinnatisect leaf blade with ultimate segments linear (2–4×0.5–1 mm), subequal rays, oblong fruits with slightly thickened ribs, obconic stylopodium and slightly concave seed face. A molecular analysis based on nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences indicated that C. puana is genetically distinct from the other two species of the genus. A distribution map, as well as an updated key, are provided for the species of Cyclorhiza.
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Youngia hangii (Asteraceae, Crepidinae), a new species from Hubei, China
Youngia hangii T.Deng, D.G.Zhang, Qun Liu & Z.M.Li, sp. nov., a new species of Asteraceae, is described and illustrated. It was collected in Wufeng County, Hubei Province, Eastern Central China. Youngia hangii is morphologically most similar to Y. rubida, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by capitula with 8–10 florets and the hairy leaf surface. Phylogenetic analyses, based on the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and one chloroplast marker (rps16), showed that Y. hangii and Y. rubida were sister species with good support. The results of both phylogenetic analysis and the morphological data support the specific rank of Y. hangii.
["Crepidinae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Description of four new terrestrial diatom species from Luticola and Microcostatus genera from South Africa
The knowledge about terrestrial diatom assemblages in southern Africa is rather limited, despite a long history of diatom research in this area. Terrestrial habitats are places of characteristic diatom floras, dominated by species resistant to desiccation which are able to thrive in conditions of limited water availability. The presented work expands the knowledge about these unique habitats. During the study on terrestrial moss-inhabiting diatoms from Western Cape Province (South Africa), four taxa with a unique set of valve features have been found and described herein as new species, based on light and scanning electron microscopy. These new species are: Luticola microcephala M. Rybak, Peszek & Kochman-Kędziora, sp. nov., Luticola asymmetrica M. Rybak, Kochman-Kędziora & Peszek, sp. nov., Luticola terrestris Kochman-Kędziora, M. Rybak & Peszek, sp. nov. and Microcostatus meridionalis Peszek, M. Rybak & Kochman-Kędziora, sp. nov. Algal community composition had low species richness (9–15 taxa per sample) and samples were dominated by: Humidophila contenta, Nitzschia brevissima and Eunotia aff. pseudominor. The three new Luticola species formed numerous populations, exceeding 10% of the share, whereas Microcostatus meridionalis reached 5.4%. Basic morphological data of associated diatom flora together with detailed micrographs are also provided.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Vaccinium motuoense (Ericaceae), a new species from Xizang, China
Vaccinium motuoense (Ericaceae), a new species from Motuo County, Xizang Autonomous Region, China is described and illustrated. This new species belongs to Vaccinium sect. Calcicolus and is morphologically most similar to V. dunalianum, but differs in having yellowish-brown tomentose young branches, petioles and inflorescence rachis, leaf blades with 2–3(–4) pairs of secondary veins, usually all basal and with fine veins impressed adaxially and urceolate to spherical corollas.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Validation of Hosta alata (Asparagaceae) as a new species and its phylogenetic affinity
Molecular phylogenetic studies of Hosta pulchella (Asparagaceae) and its relatives, which are native to Japan, have been conducted and resulted in a highly resolved phylogeny. Specifically, the relationship of H. pulchella to H. alata Hatusima, nom. nud. is investigated. These data include genome-wide SNPs obtained through conducting multiplexed ISSR genotyping by sequencing (MIG-seq). Based on these phylogenetic results, morphological observations, distribution, and differences in flowering periods of H. alata collections sympatric with H. pulchella, we find the two species closely related, but distinct. As such, we formally describe Hosta alata sp. nov. from the Oita Prefecture of Kyushu island, southwestern Japan.
["Flowering season"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Hanguana deflexa (Hanguanaceae), a new forest species from Sarawak, Borneo
Hanguana deflexa sp. nov. (Hanguanaceae) from Lawas district, Sarawak, Malaysia (northern Borneo) is described and illustrated, bringing the total number of species in Borneo to eight. The new species differs from all other recognized Hanguana species by a combination of flat leaf blade, deflexed infructescences, one-seeded dull red fruits with centrally positioned stigma and globose seed with wedge-shaped ostiole. Revised key for Bornean Hanguana species is presented.
["Commelinales"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Petrocosmea duyunensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Plants belonging to the genus Petrocosmea are rare and small herbs difficult to find in the wild. In the present study, a new species, Petrocosmea duyunensis, from Guizhou, China, is described. The species is most similar to P. leiandra and differs from it by a distinctly recurved abaxial corolla lip, free anthers and included pistil. Detailed morphological comparisons are given. One population with about 100 mature individuals was found at the type locality. This new taxon was assessed as “Data Deficient” (DD) according to the IUCN standards.

Three new species of Impatiens (Balsaminaceae) from southern Western Ghats, Kerala
Three new species of Impatiens, Impatiens achudanandanii, I. danii, and I. shailajae, are described from Thiruvananthapuram and Idukki districts of Kerala state (SW-India). Impatiens achudanandanii is similar to I. courtallensis and I. herbicola; I. danii to I. goughii and I. shailajae is to I. minae and I. scapiflora. The newly described taxa are readily distinguished from their allied species by unique character combinations, viz. shape of lateral sepal, lower sepal, dorsal petal, seed and pollen morphology. Detailed descriptions along with illustrations and photographs are provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Three new endemic species of Lepanthes (Orchidaceae, Pleurothallidinae) from the highlands of Ecuador
Three new species of Lepanthes from Ecuador are described and illustrated. These additions to the Ecuadorean flora were recorded in evergreen montane forest and páramo as part of three different research projects conducted during the last five years (2016–2021). Lepanthes oro-lojaensis was discovered in the southwest of El Oro province and is similar to L. jimburae, differing mainly in the much smaller plants, inflorescences and floral parts. Lepanthes microprosartima from the western slopes of Pichincha volcano in northern Ecuador resembles L. obandoi but differs in the coloration of the leaves, the inflorescence that are shorter than the leaves and the smaller floral appendix. Lepanthes caranqui, found in eastern Pichincha and Imbabura, is most similar to L. pachychila but differs from it in its much larger plants and different shape of the petals and the floral appendix. Preliminary assessments of the conservation status of the three taxonomic novelties are provided, using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["El Oro"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Cyphostemma calcarium, a new species of Vitaceae from the Ankarana Special Reserve, Madagascar
Cyphostemma calcarium Rabarij & L.M.Lu, sp. nov., is herein described as a new species found on limestone outcrops in northern Madagascar. Its diagnostic morphological characteristics were compared to the species occurring in the Ankarana Special Reserve. We present detailed descriptions, illustrations, distribution map, and a preliminary conservation assessment of the species. An identification key to all known species of Cyphostemma from the Ankarana Special Reserve is also provided.
["Ankarana"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

A new species and a new series of Elatostema (Urticaceae) from south-western China
The new series Elatostema section Weddellia series Xingyiensia L.D. Duan & D.H. Yin (Urticaceae) is described. In addition, its new species Elatostema xingyiense L.D. Duan & D.H. Yin, endemic to Guizhou Province, is also described and illustrated with photographs. The new series is morphologically similar to series Melanocarpa W.T. Wang and series Sublinearia W.T. Wang. The new species is most similar to E. melanocarpum, E. sublineare, E. obscurinerve, E. langicuspe and E. youyangense in morphology, but can be visibly distinguished by a combination of characters, including leaf vein, male inflorescences, female inflorescences and persistent tepals.
["Elatostema xingyiense"]

Morphology and molecules support the new monotypic genus Parainvolucrella (Rubiaceae) from Asia
Parainvolucrella R.J. Wang, a new monotypic genus for P. scabra (Wall. ex Kurz) M.D.Yuan & R.J.Wang, new combination, is segregated from the Hedyotis-Oldenlandia complex, based on morphological and molecular evidence. Phylogenetically, the new genus is sister to Scleromitrion, from which it differs by a combination of morphological characters: herbaceous habit, terminal inflorescence with subtended leaves, heterostylous flowers, indehiscent fruits and pollen with double microreticulate tectum. A key to the genera of the Hedyotis-Oldenlandia complex in China is provided for further identification.
["new combination"]

Vaccinium exiguum (Ericaceae, Vaccinieae), a new species from the ultramafic summit of Mt. Victoria, Palawan Island, Philippines
Vaccinium exiguum from the ultramafic summit of Mt. Victoria, Palawan Island, Philippines is here described as a new species of Ericaceae. It closely resembles V. hamiguitanense but is distinct by having much shorter petioles and leaves, longer and glabrous calyx lobes with serrate lobe margins, a larger corolla with deeper sulcations, and longer stamens with spurs oriented laterally. Vaccinium exiguum represents the third Vaccinium species found on the Island of Palawan and 36th in the Philippines.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geological and Geophysical Studies"]

Big fruits with tiny tepals: An unusual new species of Lauraceae from southwestern China
We collected an unusual new plant of Phoebe (Lauraceae) from southeastern Yunnan, China, which possesses more or less oblong leaves, paniculate inflorescences with strictly opposite lateral cymes, trimerous flowers with 4-locular stamens, and large fruits with tiny, equal, persistent tepals. Our molecular phylogenetic study based on nrITS, LEAFY and plastid matK sequences suggests that this species belongs to a clade of Phoebe including P. puwenensis, P. megacalyx, and P. macrocarpa. However, this species differs from the latter three species by subglabrous twigs, leaves and inflorescences (vs. pubescent twigs, leaves and inflorescences in the latter three species), larger fruits (5–8 cm long vs. 1–4 cm long in the latter three species), and smaller tepals (1–2.5 mm long vs. 5–15 mm long in the latter two species). As a result, Phoebe jinpingensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated here as new to science.
["Lauraceae"]

Begonia catbensis (sect. Coelocentrum, Begoniaceae), a new species from northern Vietnam
Begonia catbensis, a new species in Begonia sect. Coelocentrum is described and illustrated. The new species was discovered in lowland limestone hills at Cat Ba National Park and can be easily distinguished from all its congeners by having dendritic hairs on the petiole, adaxial veins and stipules, fimbriate bracts and bracteoles, dense conical bullae on the upper surface of the leaf blade, two tepals in the pistillate flowers and a glabrescent ovary with verrucose wings. Based on IUCN Criteria, the species is currently assessed as “Endangered” (D).
["Begonia"]

Taxonomy of Vincetoxicum s.str. (Asclepiadoideae, Apocynaceae) from southern Asia including three new species and resurrected names
This paper presents a taxonomic study of genus Vincetoxicum s.str. from southern Asia. Eleven regional endemic species are recognized on the basis of herbarium studies and fieldwork. Three new species are described: V. lenifolium sp. nov. (endemic to Pakistan), V. stewartianum sp. nov. (endemic to India), and V. subcanescens sp. nov. (endemic to Pakistan, Kashmir and Tibet). Three species names, V. cabulicum, V. glaucum and V. kenouriense, previously treated as synonyms of V. glaucum, V. canescens and V. hirundinaria, respectively, are resurrected. A neotype is designated for the Afghani endemic V. cabulicum. A lectotype is chosen from the syntypes of V. glaucum. We resolve the long-standing taxonomic problems in three species complexes: V. arnottianum, V. luridum, V. sakesarense, and V. stocksii; V. glaucum, V. canescens and V. cabulicum; and V. hirundinaria and V. kenouriense. Geo-taxonomic distinctions of southern Asian taxa are highlighted by excluding from henceforth the long misrecognized western Eurasian taxa V. canescens and V. hirundinaria. Furthermore, a detailed account of the genus including illustrations of whole plants, leaves and corona, distribution maps, a taxonomic key, morphological descriptions, synonymy, notes, and information on phenology, distribution and habitats is provided. Finally, provisional conservation assessments are provided, which indicate that V. cardiostephanum and V. sakesarense are critically endangered.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Begonia shenzhenensis, a new species of Begoniaceae from Guangdong, China
Begonia shenzhenensis D.K.Tian & X.Yun Wang, sp. nov., a new species in Begonia sect. Platycentrum of Begoniaceae from Shenzhen of Guangdong province, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it is primarily similar to B. coelocentroides in the same section but differs by its denser hairs on leaf, petiole, and pedicel, abtuse anther apex, hairy ovary, and narrower adaxial fruit wing. Based on only one small population found to date, its conservation status is assigned to Critical Endangered according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Smelowskia sunhangii (Brassicaceae), a new species from China, with a re-evaluation of the S. tibetica complex
Smelowskia sunhangii, from Qinghai and Tibet (China), is described and illustrated. Morphological and molecular data indicate that S. sunhangii is closely related to Smelowskia tibetica, from which it is easily distinguished by the densely hirsute (vs. glabrous or sparsely pubescent), elliptic to ovate-lanceolate (vs. suborbicular, oblong, or lanceolate) fruits with undulate (vs. straight) margins. A re-evaluation of the widely distributed S. tibetica and related taxa is also provided.
["Brassicaceae"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Two new species of Otoba (Myristicaceae) from Colombia
Otoba is the third largest genus of Myristicaceae in the Neotropics with 12 species, nine of them native to Colombia. Two new species from the department of Antioquia, O. scottmorii sp. nov. and O. squamosa sp. nov., are described and illustrated. Otoba scottmorii occurs in humid, lowland forests, while O. squamosa occurs in premontane forest. Previously, Otoba scottmorii was confused with O. acuminata (which here is considered restricted to Costa Rica and Panama), while O. squamosa was confused with O. gordoniifolia. The similarities and differences between these and other species are discussed.
["Antioquia"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Typifications of some species names in Anthurium section Pachyneurium (Araceae)
During a taxonomic study of Anthurium sect. Pachyneurium, it was found that the names of four species required typification. Verification of the protologues and cited collections is discussed and typifications are proposed as follows: the illustration Schott Icones Aroideae No. 465 is designated as the neotype of A. affine Schott. A lectotype is designated for A. bonplandii G.S.Bunting since the holotype, cited in the protologue at MY, was not found there. An epitype is selected for A. solitarium Schott because the lectotype illustration of J.M.C. Vellozo (Flora Fluminensis t. 123) lacks sufficient detail to determine it unambiguously to species in A. sect. Pachyneurium. A lectotype is selected for A. glaziovii Hook.f., a synonym of A. solitarium.
["Anthurium"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Centric diatom diversity in the lower part of the Southern Bug river (Ukraine): the transitional zone at Mykolaiv city
The diversity of centric diatoms is documented for the transitional zone of the lower part of the Southern Bug River (Ukraine) just before entering the Dnipro-Bug Estuary and compared to earlier results from the upstream sampling sites of the same river system. Benthic samples of the following sites were investigated: north of Mykolaiv City (approximately 5 km), in Mykolaiv City (near Varvarivskyi Bridge), and 5 km south of the city. Twenty-four centric diatom taxa belonging to 11 genera were identified, analysed, and documented by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM). Among them, Aulacoseira nivalis is the first report for Ukraine, A. islandica and is the first confirmed record for the studied area since the 1930s. The maximum number of centric diatom taxa found in one station was 21, the minimum 10. Melosira subglobosa was the most common (documented in 57–80% of sites with centric diatoms) and abundant species 7.3–15.7% in relative abundance to all diatom taxa. The discovered diversity of taxa and its comparison with previous results is discussed with regard to the relevance of estuary zones in the research of diatoms.
["Centric diatoms"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Environmental Science and Water Management", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Hybridization of Oxalis corniculata and O. dillenii in their non-native range
Many species have been introduced beyond their native ranges and many have become global weeds. Human mediated dispersal has removed the geographic isolation of these species, reversing millions of years of independent evolution. Examples are the Oxalis species in section Corniculatae where several species have become invasive. Here we characterize and formally describe a hybrid between O. dillenii and O. corniculata, which occurs spontaneously in Belgium and Japan. Oxalis corniculata is probably native to Japan, but both species are alien to Belgium and O. dillenii is native to North America. We formally name this hybrid as Oxalis × vanaelstii. Although this hybrid is sterile, it is nevertheless vigorous and perennial. Both parent species grow as weeds in gardens; therefore, it is likely to be more common than currently appreciated in countries where these species co-occur.
["DNA content"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Two new species of Athenaea Sendtn. (Solanaceae) from the Atlantic forests of south-eastern Brazil
Two new species of Athenaea Sendtn. (Solanaceae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest are described and illustrated. Athenaea altoserranae I.M.C. Rodrigues & Stehmann, sp. nov. from the Serra do Mar range, in São Paulo State and Athenaea hunzikeriana I.M.C. Rodrigues & Stehmann, sp. nov. from a restricted area in the north-eastern region of Minas Gerais State and the southern part of Bahia State. Both species have brown to purple-brown or purple mature fruits, a character not found in other species of Athenaea. Descriptions, illustrations, complete specimen citations and maps of both species are provided. A dichotomous key to all species of Athenaea is also presented.
["Alto da Serra"]

Lagenophora (Asteraceae, Astereae) in New Caledonia
The genus Lagenophora Cass. is taxonomically revised for New Caledonia with two species recognised. Lagenophora sinuosa Lannuzel, Gâteblé & Jian Wang ter, sp. nov. is endemic to New Caledonia and the other, L. sublyrata (Cass.) A.R.Bean & Jian Wang ter occurs there and in many other countries from the region. Both are fully described and illustrated. An identification key is provided, as are notes on the distribution (including maps), habitat, phenology and conservation status. The generic placement of the new species is also discussed.
["Asteroideae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

On a noteworthy habitat type in the savannahs of Central Cuba and a remarkable new species of Elytraria (Acanthaceae)
A peculiar habitat type found in the savannahs of Central Cuba, Villa Clara Province and characterised by the presence of a surface gravel layer of “perdigones”, an assemblage of small ferralitic concretions, upon the “mocarrero” soil prevailing in the area, is described. On sterile gravel patches, only one species grows: Elytraria serpens, a new species described and named here. It is noteworthy for possessing long and wide creeping, stoloniform subterranean peduncles with apical gemmae developing into rooting leaf rosettes enabling vegetative propagation. The new species is close to E. shaferi and considered to derive from the latter by adaptive evolution, enabling it to survive in its hostile habitat, sheltered from the competition of other plant species. Small soil insects, for example, ants, are believed to act as pollinators.
["Acanthaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Taxonomic revision of Martinella Baill. (Bignonieae, Bignoniaceae)
Martinella Baill. is a genus of Neotropical lianas in tribe Bignonieae (Bignoniaceae). The genus is monophyletic and well supported by morphological and molecular characters. Members of Martinella are characterized by a continuous interpetiolar ridge surrounding the stem, bilobed or 4–5-parted calyces, and minute triangular prophylls of the axillary buds. Generic circumscription remained unchanged since the description of the genus, although unclear species limits remained. Based on extensive fieldwork, herbarium work, and a molecular phylogenetic hypothesis for the genus, we here recognize five species of Martinella. Of these, three were recognized in earlier treatments for the genus, while two represent new species described here, Martinella lanuginosa Kataoka & L.G.Lohmann, sp. nov. and Martinella tomentosa Kataoka & L.G.Lohmann, sp. nov. Martinella iquitoensis A.Samp. is treated as a synonym of M. insculpta Sprague & Sandwith. In addition, one second-step lectotype is designated for Bignonia martini DC., and neotypes are designated for Doxantha longisiliqua Miers and Martinella gollmeri K.Schum. This work provides a full taxonomic treatment for Martinella, including a complete list of synonyms, morphological descriptions, illustrations, photographs, distribution maps, conservation status, and comments for all five species recognized.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Chayamaritia vietnamensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Son La Province, northern Vietnam
Chayamaritia vietnamensis, a new species from Son La Province, northern Vietnam, is described and illustrated. The phylogenetic study revealed that the new species is most closely related to C. banksiae and C. smitinandii. The morphological comparison suggests it as the third new species of Chayamaritia and distinguished from C. banksiae and C. smitinandii by a combination of morphological characters of leaf blades, bracts, calyx and corolla, especially its peltate leaf blades. This species is provisionally assessed as endangered (EN B1ab(iii), B2ab(iii)) using IUCN Categories and Criteria. Information on ecology, phenology and an identification key for the known Chayamaritia species are also provided.
["Cliff-dwelling"]

Primulina papillosa (Gesneriaceae), a new species from limestone areas of Guangxi, China
Primulina papillosa Z.B. Xin, W.C. Chou & F. Wen, a new species from limestone areas of Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated here. It morphologically resembles P. linearifolia (W.T. Wang) Yin Z. Wang and P. pseudolinearifolia W.B. Xu & K.F. Chung, but can be easily distinguished by some combined characters, especially its leaf blades densely papillose-hispid. We found only one population at the type locality with no more than 200 individuals, so that this new species is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) using IUCN Criteria.
["Cliff-dwelling"]

Taxonomic Identity of Carpinus dayongina Franchet (Betulaceae)
Carpinus polyneura and C. dayongina are recognised as separate species in Flora of China. In this study, the results of an examination of literature, morphological comparison and phenetic clustering of nuclear ITS sequences suggest that C. dayongina is conspecific with C. polyneura. Thus, we propose reducing C. dayongina to a synonym of C. polyneura.
["Hornbeam"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Morphological variations and asymmetry"]

Utricularia lihengiae (Lentibulariaceae), a new species from Northwest Yunnan, China
Utricularia lihengiae, a new species from the Dulongjiang region of northwest Yunnan, China, is here described and illustrated. The new species belongs to the section Oligocista and is similar to U. bifida L. and U. scandens Benj., from which it can be easily distinguished by the dark purple stripe on the corolla. The new species also differs in its shorter inflorescence and the shape of the calyx lobes.
["Bladderwort"]
["Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Lycoris wulingensis, a dwarf new species of Amaryllidaceae from Hunan, China
Lycoris wulingensis S.Y. Zhang, a new species from Hunan Province (central South China), is described and illustrated. This new species is a fertile diploid plant and its karyotype is 2n = 22. It is most similar to L. × haywardii in morphology, but the latter is a hybrid species and distributed in East China and the plant is much larger. Amongst the original species, L. wulingensis is similar to L. radiata, but differs from it in its flowers being rose-red (vs. red) and stamens and tepals are nearly the same length (vs. stamens significantly longer than tepals).
["Amaryllidaceae"]
["Chemical synthesis and alkaloids", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Notes on Allium section Rhizirideum (Amaryllidaceae) in South Korea and northeastern China: with a new species from Ulleungdo Island
Allium section Rhizirideum is reviewed for South Korea and neighboring northeastern China based on critical observation of wild populations and herbarium materials. Species delimitations are re-evaluated on the basis of morphological and somatic chromosome numbers, resulting in the recognition of five species. Allium dumebuchum from Ulleungdo Island, South Korea, is described as a new species. This species is most similar to A. senescens due to its habits, but is clearly distinguished particularly by its rhomboid scapes in cross-secion, light purple perianth color, entire and narrowly triangular inner filaments, and flowering season from late September. One previously recognized species is placed into synonymy: A. pseudosenescens (under A. senescens). Photographs and a key to species of Allium section Rhizirideum in South Korea and northeastern China are provided in addition to information on nomenclatural types, synonymies, chromosome numbers, distribution, and specimens examined.
["Chromosome number"]
["Garlic and Onion Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Physiology and Cultivation Studies"]

Chrysosplenium sangzhiense (Saxifragaceae), a new species from Hunan, China
Chrysosplenium sangzhiense Hong Liu, a new species from Hunan, China, is described and illustrated. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the new species belongs to subgen. Chrysosplenium and is closely related to C. grayanum, C. nepalense and C. sinicum. The chromosome number of the new species is 2n = 46, indicating a novel basic number x = 23 in Chrysosplenium that is different from other species. This also suggests that C. sangzhiense is probably an allopolyploid derivative of a species with x = 11 and one with x = 12. Morphologically, C. sangzhiense can be easily distinguished from C. grayanum, C. nepalense, C. sinicum and C. cavaleriei, a species not included in our phylogenetic analysis by a suite of characters relating to the sterile shoots, basal leaves, cauline leaves, flowering stem, sepals, disc, capsule and seed. A global conservation assessment is performed, and classifies C. sangzhiense as Least Concern (LC).
["Chrysosplenium"]

A new species of Viola (Violaceae) from Guangdong Province, China
Viola huizhouensis (Violaceae), a new species from Xiangtoushan National Nature Reserve of Guangdong Province in China, is described and illustrated. The new species is most similar to V. guangzhouensis, but it can be easily distinguished by its much stouter rhizome, lack of aerial stem, dense pubescence of the basal pedicel and the whole plant. Our phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS sequences, confirms that the new species belongs to V. sect. Diffusae.
["Biochemical and Structural Characterization", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology"]

Saussurea talungensis (Asteraceae), a new species from Humla, Nepal Himalayas
A new species Saussurea talungensis S.K.Ghimire & H.K.Rana, sp. nov. (sect. Strictae), from Talung valley of Humla district, Nepal, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, this species resembles Saussurea roylei and Saussurea lanata in habit, though it can be distinguished in having longer leaf petioles, purplish leaf margin, 1 or 3 capitula, shorter phyllaries, shorter receptacle bristles and the same anthers, comparatively shorter corolla with shorter lobes. Phylogenomic analysis also supports S. talungensis as a distinct species of Saussurea. Here, we provide taxonomic note, distribution map and phylogenomic inference to distinguish the new species and its allied members.
["Nepal"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Revision of Gymnomitriaceae (Marchantiophyta) in the Korean Peninsula
This paper provides a revision of Gymnomitrion and Marsupella in the Korean Peninsula based on a study of the collections housed in the herbaria of Jeonbuk National University (JNU) and the Botanical Garden-Institute in Vladivostok (VBGI). In total, 12 species were recorded (six in Gymnomitrion and seven in Marsupella), including four taxa whose identity was not confirmed with the available materials and suspected to be recorded wrongly. Each confirmed species is annotated by morphological descriptions based on available Korean material, data on ecology, distribution, specimens examined as well as illustrations.
["Gymnomitriaceae"]

Impatiens wutaishanensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Southeast Yunnan, China
Impatiens wutaishanensis R.L. Liao & Lei Cai, a new species from Southeast Yunnan, China, is here described and illustrated. This new species is most similar to Impatiens parvisepala S.X. Yu & Y.T. Hou in its racemose inflorescences, its four lateral sepals, the leaf arrangement, and in having yellow flowers. However, it differs in the height of the plants, the length of the petiole, the size and shape of the leaf blade, the shape of the spur, and the number of flowers in each inflorescence. A detailed description, color photographs, and a provisional IUCN red list assessment are provided, and its geographical distribution, ecology, and morphological relationship with relevant similar species are discussed.

A checklist of vascular plants of Ewe-Adakplame Relic Forest in Benin, West Africa
Covering 560.14 hectares in the south-east of Benin, the Ewe-Adakplame Relic Forest (EARF) is a micro-refugium that shows insular characteristics within the Dahomey Gap. It is probably one of the last remnants of tropical rain forest that would have survived the late Holocene dry period. Based on intensive field investigations through 25 plots (10 × 50 m size) and matching of herbarium specimens, a checklist of 185 species of vascular plant belonging to 54 families and 142 genera is presented for this forest. In addition to the name for each taxon, we described the life form following Raunkiaer’s definitions, chorology as well as threats to habitat. The Rubiaceae family was the richest (20 species) followed by the Fabaceae (15 species). Life forms showed the preponderance of phanerophytes (88%). The Chorological spectrum was dominated by Guineo-Congolean species (66%). Species richness estimated were 200.52 ± 9.2808 for Bootstrap; 217.62 ± 14.5972; 224.16 ± 15.3725 and 242.67 respectively for Chao, Jacknife1 and Jacknife2. Bootstrap appears to be the estimation closer to the field records. In Benin, EARF is home for Rinorea species described as West African forest bio-indicators and single location for Nesogordonia papaverifera, Mansonia altissima, Englerophytum oblanceolatum, Octolobus spectabilis, Vitex micrantha and most of Drypeteae tribe species (Drypetes aframensis, Drypetes afzelii, Drypetes gilgiana and Drypetes leonensis) recorded in Benin. Our results provides baseline information for further in-depth analysis of vegetation history in Benin by raising the question on the past floristic connection of the Dahomey gap and community engagement in conservation.
["Dahomey Gap"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Heteropterys rosmarinifolia, a new species of Malpighiaceae with verticillate leaves from savannas grasslands of central Brazil
A new species of Heteropterys belonging to the Parabanisteria informal group is described for the savannas grasslands of the Serra do Tombador Natural Reserve, municipality of Cavalcante, State of Goiás, Brazil. Heteropterys rosmarinifolia is easily distinguished from the remaining Brazilian species of the Parabanisteria informal group due to its stems unbranched, leaves associated with the inflorescence verticillate, blades linear to very narrowly oblong, strongly conduplicate, ascending to upright, and sparsely sericeous to glabrous at age. We present a complete morphological description for the new species, photographic plates, comments on its distribution, ecology, and taxonomy, besides an identification key to the species of Heteropterys from the Parabanisteria group from the State of Goiás, Brazil.
["Cerrado"]

Encyonopsis indonesica sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Cymbellales), a new diatom from the ancient lake Matano (Sulawesi, Indonesia)
A new species, Encyonopsis indonesica, is described from the ancient lake Matano, Sulawesi island, Indonesia. The morphology of this species was studied by means of light and scanning electron microscopy. E. indonesica has a remarkable valve ultrastructure. The valve surface is ornamented with numerous longitudinal siliceous ribs and siliceous verrucae. Valve face delineated from the mantle by a thickened marginal ridge. Raised sterna border the raphe branches. Raphe is distinctly undulate with distal ends hooked strongly to the ventral side. The only similar species to E. indonesica is Amphora dissimilis described from New Caledonia. Comparison of both taxa is given and A. dissimilis is transferred to Encyonopsis. The taxonomic placement of both taxa is evaluated, and the phenomenon of external siliceous ornamentation is discussed.
["ancient lake"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Three new species of Uvariodendron (Annonaceae) from coastal East Africa in Kenya and Tanzania
East Africa is a hotspot of biodiversity with many endemic plant species. We describe three new species of the genus Uvariodendron (Annonaceae) from the coastal forests of Kenya and Tanzania. Uvariodendron mbagoi Dagallier & Couvreur, sp. nov. is endemic to Tanzania and unique within the genus by its strong bergamot scent and its tomentose fruits having regular tufts of higher hair density. Uvariodendron dzomboense Dagallier, W.R.Q. Luke & Couvreur, sp. nov. is endemic to Dzombo Hill in Kenya and is rendered distinct by its small leaves and very densely pubescent carpels. Uvariodendron schmidtii W.R.Q. Luke, Dagallier & Couvreur, sp. nov. is endemic to Shimba Hills in Kenya and differs by its small flowers and fused sepals forming a ring. Following IUCN criteria we assessed U. mbagoi and U. dzomboense as endangered (EN) while U. schmidtii is assessed as Vulnerable (VU). We also propose a new combination: Polyceratocarpus oligocarpus (Verdc.) Dagallier, comb. nov. The description of these three new species underlines the richness in endemics in East Africa and that new discoveries might arise from further botanical exploration of this region.
["Annonaceae"]

Achnanthidium tinea sp. nov. – a new monoraphid diatom (Bacillariophyceae) species, described on the basis of molecular and morphological approaches
A new monoraphid diatom species Achnanthidium tinea Tseplik, Kulikovskiy, Kociolek & Maltsev, sp. nov. is described from Indonesia. The species is described on the basis of molecular and morphological analyses. According to molecular data the new species belongs to the clade that includes strains of Achnanthidium minutissimum, Achnanthidium saprophilum and Achnanthidium digitatum. Morphologically, the new species differs quite significantly from other species of the same genus because of linear-elliptic valves with almost parallel sides and strongly radiate striae and a butterfly-shaped fascia on the raphe valve. The morphology and phylogeny of the new species are discussed, and thoughts on the current state of the taxonomy of the genus Achnanthidium are expressed. Our work shows the importance of using molecular data in diatom systematics and also demonstrates the need to investigate rarely studied regions of our planet.
["Achnanthidium"]

Chroesthes (Acanthaceae) in Peninsular Malaysia, including a new species from Kelantan and a new record from Terengganu
Chroesthes is a small genus that includes three species from Peninsular Malaysia: Chroesthes faizaltahiriana Siti-Munirah sp. nov., C. lanceolata (T. Anderson) B.Hansen and C. longifolia (Wight) B.Hansen. Chroesthes faizaltahiriana, recently discovered in the State of Kelantan, is described and illustrated. This species is similar to the common species C. longifolia, but is distinguished mainly by its inflorescence type, calyx shape and its flowers being bright orange instead of dark purple internally. Chroesthes lanceolata is a new record for Peninsular Malaysia and has only been collected once. Following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, these three species are assessed (national scale assessment) as Critically Endangered (C. faizaltahiriana and C. lanceolata) and Least Concern (C. longifolia).

Hoya pyrifolia (Apocynaceae), a new species from south-western Yunnan, China
Hoya pyrifolia, a new species of Apocynaceae from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated. Results from phylogenetic analyses, based on combined DNA fragments of the nuclear ribosomal external transcribed spacer (ETS), intergeneric transcribed spacer (ITS) and three plastid DNA fragments (matK, psbA-trnH and trnT-trnL), showed that the new species was nested within a clade, including Hoya species distributed in the subtropical foothills of the Himalayas and the Tibet-Sichuan Plateau. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from its close relatives by its pyriform and slightly pubescent leaves, as well as the 4-flowered inflorescences.
["Apocynaceae"]

A new natural hybrid of Iris (Iridaceae) from Chongqing, China
A newly discovered natural hybrid, Iris × ampliflora Y.E. Xiao, F.Y. Yu & X.F. Chen (Iridaceae: subgenus Limniris section Lophiris) from Chongqing, China, is described and illustrated. This hybrid is morphologically similar to I. japonica Thunb. and I. wattii Baker, but can be distinguished by its giant leaves and large purple flowers. Phylogenetic trees based on cpDNA data support the separation of I. × ampliflora from other closely related species in the section Lophiris. According to its morphological features, molecular systematic evidence and chromosome data, we speculate that I. × ampliflora [31 chromosomes] likely is a new hybrid between I. japonica [2n = 32] and I. wattii [2n = 30].
["chloroplast DNA"]

Taxonomic revision of Ceropegia sect. Huernia (Asclepiadoideae, Apocynaceae) in Saudi Arabia with three new combinations
This study provides a taxonomic revision for Ceropegia sect. Huernia in the flora of Saudi Arabia. Forty-six quantitative and qualitative morphological characters were analysed using principal component analysis (PCA), principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) and the unweighted pairs group using mean average (UPGMA) to separate and help delimit taxa. We propose to reduce the number of species reported in Saudi Arabia from 11 to four: C. khalidbinsultanii comb. nov., C. laevis, C. lodarensis and C. macrocarpa. This study also suggested reducing two names to varietal level under C. lodarensis (var. foetida comb. nov. and var. rubrosticta comb. nov.). A key to the species, detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, distribution maps, ecology, etymology and preliminary conservation assessments are provided that follow IUCN criteria.
["Arid plants"]
["Phytochemistry and Bioactive Compounds", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Evolutionary relationships, biogeography and morphological characters of Glinus (Molluginaceae), with special emphasis on the genus composition in Sub-Saharan Africa
Glinus is a small genus of Molluginaceae with 8–10 species mostly distributed in the tropics of the World. Its composition and evolutionary relationships were poorly studied. A new molecular phylogeny constructed here using nuclear (ITS) and chloroplast (rbcL, trnK-matK) markers confirmed the monophyly of the genus. Based on ITS analysis, the following well-supported lineages are present within Glinus: the G. bainesii lineage is recovered as sister to the remainder of the genus followed by G. oppositifolius. Three other clades are: G. hirtus with G. orygioides; G. radiatus and G. lotoides; the latter is represented by a sample from North America, and G. zambesiacus as sister to G. setiflorus + G. lotoides + G. dictamnoides. On the plastid gene tree, G. bainesii + G. oppositifolius form a sister clade to all other Glinus species. The next clade is formed by G. hirtus and G. orygioides followed by G. radiatus plus an American sample of G. lotoides. The next branch comprises G. setiflorus as sister to G. zambesiacus + G. lotoides + G. dictamnoides. Glinus seems to have originated from Africa around the Late Eocene or Early Miocene, with further radiations to Australia and the Americas during the Late Miocene or Late Pliocene. Compared with the previous limited character set used for the diagnostics, we have found ten new morphological and carpological traits distinguishing Glinus members. In both trees based on nuclear and plastid datasets, the major phylogenetic clades cannot be characterized by the peculiar morphological characters. Many shared character states leading to their contrasting pattern in the multivariate analysis model are interpreted as a high homoplasy in the phylogenetically distant species. We paid special attention to the composition of the genus in Sub-Saharan Africa, a region with the greatest species diversity. Our results provide new insight into the taxonomy of Glinus in this region. Glinus lotoides var. virens accepted in many previous works is a synonym of G. dictamnoides that is closely related to G. lotoides based on molecular analysis and morphological characters. The status of the American populations of G. lotoides needs further investigation due to different characters of the specimens from the Old and the New World. Many specimens previously identified as G. lotoides var. virens and as the intermediates G. lotoides × G. oppositifolius belong to G. zambesiacus sp. nov. and G. hirtus comb. nov. (≡ Mollugo hirta); the latter species is resurrected from synonymy after 200 years of unacceptance. In some African treatments, G. hirtus was known under the invalidly published name G. dahomensis. Glinus zambesiacus is distributed in the southern and eastern parts of tropical Africa, and G. hirtus previously assumed to be endemic to West Africa is indeed a species with a wide distribution across the tropical part of the continent. Glinus microphyllus previously accepted as endemic to West Tropical Africa together with other new synonyms (G. oppositifolius var. lanatus, G. herniarioides, Wycliffea rotundifolia) is considered here as G. oppositifolius var. keenanii comb. nov. (≡ Mollugo hirta var. keenanii), a variety found across the entire distribution of G. oppositifolius (Australia, Asia, and Africa). The presence of the American G. radiatus in Africa is not confirmed, and all records of this species belong to G. hirtus. The lectotypes of some names (G. dictamnoides, G. herniarioides, Mollugo hirta, M. setiflora, Pharnaceum pentagynum, Wycliffea) as well as a neotype of G. trianthemoides are designated. A new key to the identification of all Glinus species in Sub-Saharan Africa is provided. A checklist is given of all accepted species in this region (G. bainesii, G. hirtus, G. lotoides, G. oppositifolius s.l., G. setiflorus, and G. zambesiacus) with their nomenclature, morphological description and geographical distribution.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Taxonomic revision of the Asplenium wrightii complex (Aspleniaceae) with reinstatement of A. alatulum and A. subcrenatum
The Asplenium wrightii complex is morphologically variable and difficult in species delimitation. Owing to lack of comprehensive sampling in phylogenetic studies, the taxonomy of this complex remains unresolved. Based on extensive field observations, specimen examination and our recent molecular data, the present study aims to clarify the identities of three species of Asplenium in this complex from Asia. Our study revealed that A. alatulum and A. subcrenatum, previously treated as synonyms of A. wrightii, should be reinstated. A taxonomic revision of the three species, including their type information, detailed descriptions, voucher specimens, distribution, ecology, as well as taxonomic notes, is carried out.
["species delimitation"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Flueggea acicularis (Phyllanthaceae), a narrow endemic species rediscovered in central China
Flueggea acicularis (Phyllanthaceae) is endemic to the karst region of central China. Male specimens of this species were first collected in 1908. In 1989, female plants of F. acicularis were found for the first time, but misidentified as a new species. Throughout this period the male plants of F. acicularis were mismatched with female plants of other species, and male plants had not been collected since 1908. Then, in March, 2009, the authors rediscovered a wild population of F. acicularis consisting of both male and female plants in Wuxi county, Chongqing municipality, China. Based on field investigation and examination of specimens, we matched the correct female and male plants of this species for the first time since its initial publication a century ago. A complete and accurate morphological description, distribution, habitat and phenology of this species are also provided. Furthermore, the conservation status of F. acicularis is assessed as “Near Threatened” (NT) according to the IUCN Red List criteria.
["Flueggea acicularis"]
["Phytochemistry and Bioactivity Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Two new hybrids of the genus Diplazium (Athyriaceae) from Japan
In this study, we describe the ferns Diplazium × kanayamaense hyb. nov. and D. × tsukushiense hyb. nov. and further compare them to parental species D. chinense, D. deciduum and D. fauriei in terms of morphological characteristics, plastids and nuclear DNA markers. These new hybrids have been determined to be endemic to western Japan. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources status was evaluated for D. × kanayamaense as endangered (EN) and D. × tsukushiense as critically endangered (CR).
["Athyriaceae"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

On Hydrangea peruviana, an endangered species from Ecuador, and Hydrangea oerstedii, very common in Costa Rica and Panama, and seven threatened Central and South American Hydrangeas, which have been confounded with these
Hydrangea section Cornidia, currently consisting of 19 accepted taxa, occurs from Mexico to Chile and Argentina, with one species in southeast Asia. Its representatives are root-climbing lianas which may grow up to 60 m high in the tree canopy of temperate to (sub)tropical forests. Our extensive field work throughout its distribution area, study of herbarium specimens and ongoing molecular studies have resulted in the discovery of species new to science, as well as new insights into the circumscription of many taxa. We here present amended descriptions for seven Hydrangea species of Central and South America and discuss the taxonomical situation of two Colombian Hydrangeas, including an identification key, illustrations, and distribution maps. Field work was carried out in Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador and Peru, including exploration in areas where the genus had not been collected before. These specimens and observations were complemented with the study of specimens of 41 herbaria of North, Central and South America, as well as Europe. Detailed morphological studies of all species were carried out, based on living plants in their natural habitat, as well as on dried specimens from our own collections and all available herbarium material. Type material was studied in detail for all species concerned. Based on an extensive number of morphological characters, combined with distribution patterns, phenological differences and ecological preferences, including molecular data in most cases, Hydrangea peruviana and H. oerstedii are clearly distinct taxa, as well as the other seven species mentioned here, which had been synonymized with either of these two species. The present study results in the recognition of 26 species in section Cornidia and exemplifies the urgent need for profound taxonomic studies in plants, as in many families we do not dispose of well-circumscribed units for conservation to mitigate the already occurring unprecedented loss of biodiversity.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

Taxonomic updates in Amphitecna (Bignoniaceae): A new Mexican species and the re-establishment of the giant-leaved A. megalophylla
In this study, we analyzed the morphological affinities of the 24 species of Amphitecna based on detailed morphological studies and multivariate cluster analyses. Our results suggest that the genus Amphitecna includes six morphological groups that can be easily distinguished based on floral and fruits characteristics: A. donnell-smithii group, A. macrophylla group, A. megalophylla group, A. molinae group, A. spathicalyx group, and A. steyermarkii group. A new species from Mexico, Amphitecna fonceti, is described. This new species is clearly differentiated by the predominantly ramiflorous inflorescences bearing multiple flowers per shoot, buds rounded at the apex, large flowers with a transverse fold in the corolla throat, calyx surface pubescent and strongly costate, and fruits elliptic, apiculate at the apex. We discuss the characteristics of each morphological group and their geographical distribution, provide a detailed description of the new species including ethnobotany notes, and propose the re-establishment of the giant-leaved species A. megalophylla.
["Chiapas"]

Rediscovery of Pogostemon dielsianus (Lamiaceae, Lamioideae), a rare endemic species from southwestern China, after one century
Pogostemon dielsianus (Lamiaceae) was described in 1913 based on a single gathering from northwestern Yunnan of China collected in 1905, and thereafter no further collections were observed until 2019. We rediscovered the rare endemic species in Lushui County, Yunnan. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on four cpDNA markers (rbcL, rps16, psbA-trnH, and trnL-trnF) and the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region confirmed its infrageneric placement within subg. Pogostemon. Based on observations of the rediscovered population of P. dielsianus, we updated its morphological description, provided an illustration, and discussed its distribution. Under IUCN criteria, the species was categorized as “Critically Endangered (CR)”.
["Critically endangered"]

Gigantochloa glabrata (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new bamboo species from Yunnan, China
Gigantochloa glabrata N. H. Xia & Y. Zeng ex D. Z. Li & Z. C. Xu, sp. nov., a new species of paleotropical woody bamboo has been described and illustrated from Yunnan, China. The new species is morphologically similar to G. albociliata and G. levis, but differs from them by having erect culm sheath blades; culm sheath ligules 4–6 mm high, truncate, denticulate; and with a ring of white tomentum on the intranode and below the node. The new species was mistakenly identified as Gigantochloa albociliata in the Flora of China and was recognised with description of the vegetative characters in 2014, but it was not effectively published. Here, we designate a complete specimen with inflorescence as the type and describe it in accordance with the Code.
["Gigantochloa"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Morphology and molecules support the new monotypic genus Fenghwaia (Rhamnaceae) from south China
Fenghwaia, a new monotypic genus, along with the new species Fenghwaia gardeniicarpa, is described from Guangdong Province, China. The combined features of inferior ovary, cylindrical drupaceous fruits and orbicular and dorsiventrally-compressed seeds with an elongate and pronounced basal appendage make the new genus significantly different from other genera of the family. In addition, its pollen morphology also showed great similarity to other species of this stenopalynous family. The molecular phylogenetic analysis, based on nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and plastid trnL-F intron spacer (trnL-F) DNA sequence data from the new genus and the other 375 species representing 58 genera of Rhamnaceae, indicates that Fenghwaia is nested within the ‘rhamnoid’ group and sister to the tribe Rhamneae and then both sister to the tribe Maesopsideae. A taxonomic classification key to the ‘rhamnoid’ group is provided, based on morphological characters. A global conservation assessment is also performed and classifies Fenghwaia gardeniicarpa as Near Threatened (NT).
["Fenghwaia"]

Merger of Betula tatewakiana (Betulaceae) from northern Japan with northeast Asian B. ovalifolia based on ploidy level
It has been controversial whether Betula tatewakiana, a dwarf birch distributed in Hokkaido of northern Japan, is an endemic species or a synonym of B. ovalifolia broadly distributed in northeast Asia. The endemic hypothesis is based on the idea that B. tatewakiana is diploid while B. ovalifolia is tetraploid and that they are separated based on the ploidy level; however, no chromosome data have actually been published before. Resolving the taxonomic problem is crucial also in judging the conservation priority of B. tatewakiana in a global perspective. Our chromosome observation revealed that B. tatewakiana is tetraploid as well as B. ovalifolia. We also conducted morphological observations and clarified that B. tatewakiana is morphologically identical to B. ovalifolia in white hairs and dense resinous glands respectively on adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces, in which they differ from closely related species in the same section Fruticosae. We conclude that the hypothesis that B. tatewakiana is a Hokkaido endemic based on the ploidy level is not supported and that B. tatewakiana should be merged with B. ovalifolia.
["Economic and Technological Developments in Russia"]

Two new species of Fargesia (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) from southwestern China
Two new species of Fargesia, one from Xizang (Tibet) and one from Yunnan, China, are described and illustrated. Fargesia viridis D.Z. Li & X.Y. Ye is characterized by its densely white powder, nearly solid internodes, yellow setose sheath scar and culm sheaths, and 4–6 leaves of large size. Fargesia purpurea D.Z. Li & X.Y. Ye has thinner culms (0.5–1.4 cm in diameter), a ring of 4–5 mm tall brown setae below nodes, fewer branches, glabrous sheath scar and culm sheaths, differentiated from the related species.
["Fargesia"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications"]

Nomenclatural and taxonomic updates in Rourea subgen. Rourea sect. Multifoliolatae (Connaraceae)
The pantropical genus Rourea Aubl. (Connaraceae) is composed of ca. 70 species, most of which occur in the Neotropics. Rourea is currently subdivided into three subgenera, with the American taxa included in Rourea subgen. Rourea. Forero (1976) recognised six sections for the species of the New World, with Rourea subgen. R. sect. Multifoliolatae being exclusive to Brazil, characterised by multifoliolate leaves, relatively small leaflets and the staminal tube (0.8–)1–1.5 mm long. Following Forero’s (1976) treatment, additional botanical collections have become available in Brazilian herbaria, allowing re-evaluation of species concepts. This work recognises and revises 12 species in this section, mainly restricted to southeastern Brazil and southern Bahia. A nomenclatural and taxonomic study of these species is here presented, including an identification key, morphological descriptions, illustrations and geographic distribution maps. A new species is also described.

Leucheria cantillanensis (Nassauvieae, Asteraceae), a new species endemic to Central Chile
A new species, Leucheria cantillanensis sp. nov., endemic to the coastal mountain range of Central Chile, is described. By using both nDNA and cpDNA, phylogenetic relationships of the new species were investigated. This new species belongs to the acaulescent/subacaulescent clade of Leucheria, which is congruent with the morphology of the species. A detailed description, distribution map, insights about its habitat, conservation status, and illustrations are provided. An updated key for acaulescent/subacaulescent species of Leucheria from Central Chile is also given.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Monadelpha (Euphorbiaceae, Plukenetieae), a new genus of Tragiinae from the Amazon rainforest of Venezuela and Brazil
Monadelpha L.J.Gillespie & Card.-McTeag., gen. nov., is described as a new member of Euphorbiaceae tribe Plukenetieae subtribe Tragiinae, to accommodate Tragia guayanensis, a species known from western Amazonas, Venezuela and, newly reported here, from Amazonas, Brazil. The genus is unique in the subtribe for having 5-colpate pollen and staminate flowers with filaments entirely connate into an elongate, cylindrical staminal column terminated by a tight cluster of anthers. Phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear rDNA ITS and sampling 156 accessions across the diversity of Tragiinae (all 12 genera and 77 of ~195 species) also support Monadelpha as a distinct lineage that is separate from Tragia. A revised key to the genera of Tragiinae in South America and Central America is provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Cassava research and cyanide"]

Hidden biodiversity of Amazonian white-sand ecosystems: two distinctive new species of Utricularia (Lentibulariaceae) from Pará, Brazil
As deforestation and fire move forward over pristine vegetation in the Amazon, many species remain undiscovered and may be threatened with extinction before being described. Here, we describe two new species of Utricularia (Lentibulariaceae) collected during recent fieldwork in an area of white-sand vegetation in the eastern Amazon Basin named Campos do Ariramba. Further herbarium revision revealed that both species were first collected over 60 years ago in the same area, remaining unnamed until now. The new species, named U. ariramba sp. nov. and U. jaramacaru sp. nov., are placed in U. sect. Aranella and U. sect. Setiscapella, respectively. We provide full descriptions, illustrations, photographs, a distribution map, and taxonomic discussion for both species. Additionally, we provide a preliminary list of Lentibulariaceae from the Campos do Ariramba. Both new species are assessed as Vulnerable, however, yet known only from a few collections each, highlighting the urgency and importance of fieldwork and taxonomic revisions in the Amazon biogeographic region in order to provide essential data for the conservation of both known and still unknown biodiversity.
["Amazon savannas"]
["Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

The genus Lycianthes (Solanaceae, Capsiceae) in Mexico and Guatemala
Lycianthes, the third most species-rich genus in the Solanaceae, is distributed in both the New and Old Worlds and is especially diverse in Mexico. Here we provide an identification key, taxonomic descriptions, distribution maps, and illustrations of specimens, trichomes, flowers, and fruits for the 53 known Lycianthes taxa of Mexico and Guatemala. The new combination Lycianthes scandens (Mill.) M.Nee is made and replaces the name Lycianthes lenta (Cav.) Bitter, which is placed in synonymy. Within L. scandens, two varieties are recognized (Lycianthes scandens var. scandens and Lycianthes scandens var. flavicans (Bitter) J.Poore & E.Dean, comb. nov.). In addition, one new species (Lycianthes rafatorresii E.Dean, sp. nov.) is described from eastern Mexico, and 10 names (either recognized taxa or synonyms of recognized taxa) are lectotypified, including the names Solanum heteroclitum Sendtn., S. rantonnetii Carrière, and S. synantherum Sendtn. The species L. multiflora Bitter and L. synanthera (Sendtn.) Bitter are excluded from the treatment, as research indicates that they do not occur in Mexico and Guatemala, however full synonymy for both names is given.
["Guatemala"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Hydrostachys flabellifera (Hydrostachyaceae), a new species from Madagascar
Hydrostachys flabellifera, a new species of Hydrostachyaceae found in a stream in Manandriana, Madagascar, is described and illustrated herein. It is similar to H. verruculosa and H. laciniata in morphology, but can be distinguished from them by its leaves with sparsely arranged, flabelliform and palmately parted emergences, obvious rachis and the pattern of segments arranged on the male bracts. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) dataset provides a robust support for it as a new species as well.
["Aquatic plants"]

A new species of Eriotheca (Malvaceae, Bombacoideae) from coastal areas in northeastern Brazil
A new species of Eriotheca (Malvaceae, Bombacoideae) from coastal areas in the northeastern Brazilian states of Alagoas and Bahia is described and illustrated. Eriotheca alversonii inhabits Atlantic coastal forest and is found principally on sandy soils in restinga vegetation. It is most similar morphologically to E. parvifolia. Both species have 3-foliolate leaves and short petioles on fertile branches, but the new species has smaller flowers, truncate to crenulate calyces, and smaller globose to subglobose capsules. The affinities of E. alversonii to morphologically similar species and its phenology are discussed. A distribution map and preliminary assessment of its conservation status are provided.

An amazing new Capsicum (Solanaceae) species from the Andean-Amazonian Piedmont
Capsicum regale Barboza & Bohs, sp. nov., a new species from the tropical wet forests of the eastern Andean slopes (Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru) is described and illustrated. This new species belongs to the Andean clade (all species 2n = 26) of Capsicum and is similar to C. longifolium Barboza & S.Leiva in its glabrescence, calyx morphology, and corolla and seed color but differs in its membranous and elliptic leaves, fleshy calyces, deeper stellate corollas, longer filaments, longer and purple fruiting pedicels, purple berries, and larger seeds. Its chromosome number was counted (2n = 26), a preliminary assessment of conservation status is given and discussed, and an updated identification key to the species of the Andean clade is provided.
["Andean clade"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Genetic and Environmental Crop Studies"]

Strobilanthes sunhangii (Acanthaceae), a new species from Tibet, China
A new species of Acanthaceae, Strobilanthes sunhangii, is described from Mêdog County, Tibet, China. Morphologically, the new species is closely similar to S. medogensis and S. divaricata, but S. sunhangii differs in having glabrous stems, longer spikes, glabrous rachis, double curved corolla and glabrous calyx, different stamens and style.

Pternopetalum paucifoliolatum (Apiaceae), a new Critically Endangered species from Sichuan, China
Pternopetalum paucifoliolatum, a new species from Sixigou Scenic Area, Emeishan City, Sichuan Province, is proposed and described. Diagnostic morphological characters, full description, detailed illustrations, and a distribution map are provided. The new species is similar to P. porphyronotum in possessing the 1-pinnate leaves and the abaxially purple-red leaflets, but differs from the latter by shorter stature, fewer leaflets ((1–) 3–7) and rays (5–8), the leaflet margin white-ciliate. The new species, which is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR), was only found on limestone cliffs. We also provide a new key to the species of Pternopetalum.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Leptomischus hiepii, a new species of Rubiaceae from Vietnam
Leptomischus hiepii, a new species of the tribe Argostemmateae from Son La province, northwestern Vietnam, is described and illustrated. Morphologically it allies to L. wallichii, L. erianthus and L. funingensis by sharing a similar habit, large stipules and similar corolla shape, but it differs by its anisophyllous leaves, 1-flowered inflorescences, homostylous flowers and tubular-campanulate corollas.
["Argostemmateae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Checklist of vascular plants of Klang Gates Quartz Ridge, Malaysia, a 14-km long quartz dyke
The Klang Gates Quartz Ridge (KGQR) is proposed for protection as National Heritage and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its spectacular size, exceptional beauty and significant biodiversity. The checklist of vascular plants documents 314 species that comprise a unique combination that grows on lowland quartz and that is distinct from the surrounding lowland equatorial rain forest by the absence of orchids, palms, gingers and tree canopy families. The Rubiaceae, Gramineae, Moraceae, Apocynaceae, Melastomataceae and Polypodiaceae are the most speciose families. The summit vegetation at 200–400 m elevation is dominated by Baeckea frutescens (Myrtaceae) and Rhodoleia championii (Hamamelidaceae) and shows similarities to the plant community on rocky mountain peaks above 1500 m. About 11% of its species are endemic in Peninsular Malaysia and four are endemic to KGQR: Aleisanthia rupestris (Rubiaceae), Codonoboea primulina (Gesneriaceae), Spermacoce pilulifera (Rubiaceae), and Ilex praetermissa (Aquifoliaceae). All four are provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered. Two, Eulalia milsumi (Gramineae) and Sonerila prostrata (Melastomataceae), are endemic to KGQR and a few neighbouring smaller quartz dykes. They are assessed as Endangered. The KGQR is a fragile habitat and conservation management is urgently required to halt the spread of the aggressive alien grass, Pennisetum polystachion and to prevent further habitat degradation from visitors. Based on KGQR being a threatened habitat, its biodiverse flora, and endangered species, it qualifies as an Important Plant Area.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Helicteres binhthuanensis V.S.Dang (Malvaceae, Helicteroideae), a new species from southern Vietnam
Helicteres binhthuanensis V.S.Dang, sp. nov. from Ham Thuan Bac District, Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to H. angustifolia, which is a common species in mainland southeast Asia, and H. sphaerotheca, which is endemic to the Northern Territory, Australia, but differs from both by several salient characters such as leaf and calyx size, androgynophore length, petal color, and fruit shape. Photographs, a vernacular name, a preliminary conservation assessment, and a table of morphological characters comparing this new species to two closely related species also are provided.
["Helicteres"]

Calamagrostis hongii (Poaceae, Agrostidinae), a new species from southwestern China
Calamagrostis hongii, a new species of Calamagrostis (Poaceae) from southwestern China (S Chongqing, W Guizhou, Sichuan, SE Xizang, Yunnan), is here described and illustrated. It is similar to C. arundinacea and C. effusiflora in spikelet traits, but can be distinguished by its moderately or densely scabrous upper leaf surface with ribs covered by short, stiff, prickle hairs, and glabrous leaf sheaths, blades and collars. Nomenclature Deyeuxia zhongdianensis lacks Latin description or diagnosis and is an unavailable nomen nudum (naked name).
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant responses to water stress", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Achene micromorphology and its taxonomic significance in some species in Taraxacum sect. Palustria (Asteraceae)
The genus Taraxacum is one of the largest and taxonomically most complicated apomictic genera. Currently, it is considered to consist of over 2800 species placed within 60 sections. Due to the large number of species, and their uniform morphological design and plasticity of leaves, the identification of plants at the species level is challenging even for specialists. This problem significantly hinders the study of their properties and the rational use of these valuable medicinal and nutritional plants. This paper presents the results of research on the morphology and micromorphology of achenes of 28 Taraxacum species of sect. Palustria and for comparison one species per section of: Erythrosperma, Naevosa, Piesis, and Taraxacum. The achenes were measured with a stereoscopic microscope and a biometric program, and micromorphological studies were performed by scanning electron microscopy. It has been shown that traits associated with achene morphology and micromorphology have a high diagnostic value, allowing us to distinguish sections as well as species within the sect. Palustria. Based on the examined achene features, a dichotomous key for determining the studied species was constructed.
["achene"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Synotis panzhouensis (Asteraceae, Senecioneae), a distinct new species with red-purple pappus from southwestern Guizhou, China
A new species of Asteraceae, Synotis panzhouensis, is described and illustrated from Guizhou Province in China. Compared with other species of the genus, it is distinguishable by having red-purple pappus; additionally, it differs from its closest ally S. nayongensis by the larger involucres and phyllaries, and higher number of phyllaries and disk florets. In addition, detailed discussion of morphological differences, the provisional IUCN status and a distribution map are provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

Two new species of Codonoboea (Gesneriaceae) from Kenaboi State Park, Peninsular Malaysia
Two new Codonoboea species, C. kenaboiensis Syahida-Emiza, Y.Y.Sam & Siti-Munirah and C. ruthiae Syahida-Emiza, Y.Y. Sam & Siti-Munirah were discovered from the Kenaboi State Park, Peninsular Malaysia. Descriptions, illustrations, colour plates and provisional conservation status are provided.
["Codonoboea kenaboiensis"]

Zehneria grandibracteata (Cucurbitaceae), an overlooked new species from western Kenyan forests
Zehneria grandibracteata, a new species of Cucurbitaceae from western Kenya, is described here, based on morphological and molecular data. It has long been misidentified as the widely-distributed species Z. scabra. However, it differs by its ovate leafy probract at the base of the inflorescences, subglabrous condition of the entire plant, shorter receptacle-tube and filaments, as well as denser and sessile inflorescences. Furthermore, the molecular phylogenetic analysis of Zehneria, based on nrITS sequences, further supports the argument that Z. grandibracteata should be segregated from Z. scabra.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Advances in Cucurbitaceae Research", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Deparia × nanakuraensis K.Hori (Athyriaceae), a new hybrid pteridophyte from Japan
I describe Deparia × nanakuraensis hyb. nov. and discuss differences in morphological characteristics between parental species D. pterorachis and D. viridifrons with chromosome counting, plastid, and nuclear DNA markers. The new hybrid is endemic to the eastern and northern parts of Japan. Based on the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, this new species is here considered Data Deficient. The ploidy level is diploid sterile.
["Athyriaceae"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A new species of Thinouia (Paullinieae, Sapindaceae) from the Amazon and its phylogenetic placement
Thinouia is a Neotropical genus of lianas with approximately 12 species and is the only genus in tribe Paullinieae with actinomorphic flowers. During a taxonomic revision of the genus and fieldwork in south-western Amazonia, we found a new species that appears similar to Thinouia trifoliata (ex Allosanthus) because of its racemiform inflorescence. However, before describing the new species, we had to confirm that Allosanthus was congeneric with Thinouia so we could place the new species in the correct genus. The results of the phylogenetic analysis, based on molecular data (trnL intron and ITS sequences), show that Allosanthus should be included in Thinouia. Thus, the new taxon is described here as Thinouia cazumbensis sp. nov. The new species is described, illustrated and phylogenetic trees showing relationships within supertribe Paulliniodae and Thinouia and the congeneric Allosanthus are given.
["Allosanthus"]

New records and key to Poa (Pooideae, Poaceae) from the Flora of Southern Africa region and notes on taxa including a diclinous breeding system in Poa binata
Four species of Poa L. are newly reported for sub-Saharan Africa and southern Africa, Poa compressa L., P. iconia Azn., P. infirma Kunth and P. nemoralis L. This is the first report of P. iconia from Africa. Vouchers at PRE of P. bulbosa L. all belong to var. vivipara Koeler, those of P. iconia belong to var. iconia and the one of P. trivialis L. belongs to var. trivialis. Two subspecies are recognised in P. pratensis L.: subsp. irrigata (Lindm.) H.Lindb. and subsp. pratensis. We also designate a lectotype for P. iconia and second-step lectotype for P. leptoclada Hochst. ex A.Rich. and report the first recording of a diclinous breeding system in P. binata Nees. Our account updates the treatment in Identification Guide to Southern African Grasses (Fish et al. 2015) including a key to the taxa and notes on infrageneric taxonomy, DNA subtypes, ecology, chromosome numbers and breeding systems.
["Afro-alpine grassland"]

Iron islands in the Amazon: investigating plant beta diversity of canga outcrops
The world’s largest mineral iron province, Serra dos Carajás, is home to an open vegetation known as canga, found on top of isolated outcrops rising out of the Amazon rainforest. Over one thousand vascular plants species have been recorded in these canga sites, including 38 edaphic endemics. A new survey adds to our investigation of biogeographic relationships between sixteen canga outcrops and the effect of the distance between site pairs on the number of shared species, regional species turnover and species distribution patterns. Plant collecting expeditions to the westernmost site, the Serra de Campos of São Félix do Xingu (SFX), were carried out followed by the identification of all collected specimens and the creation of a species database, built to perform biogeographical analyses. Floristic relationships among the sites were investigated regarding their similarity, using multivariate analyses. The correlation between canga areas and species richness was tested, as well as the geographical distance between pairs of outcrops and their shared species. Vascular plants at SFX total 254 species including 17 edaphic endemics. All canga sites are grouped with 25% of minimum similarity, and the SFX falls within a large subgroup of outcrops. The total species number shared between site pairs does not change significantly with geographical distance but is positively correlated with the area of each outcrop. Meanwhile, shared endemic species numbers between site pairs decline when geographical distance increases, possibly imposed by the barrier of the rainforest. Our data suggest higher shared similarity between the largest and species-richest sites as opposed to geographically nearby sites, and provide useful insight for drafting conservation and compensation measures for canga locations. The size of the canga outcrops is associated to higher floristic diversity but connectivity among islands also plays a role in their similarity.
["campo rupestre"]

Octoblepharum peristomiruptum (Octoblepharaceae) a new species from the Neotropics
Octoblepharum peristomiruptum, a new species of moss in the family Octoblepharaceae from Panama and Brazil, is described and illustrated. The new species is characterised by plants with a reddish-purple colour particularly at the leaf bases, peristomes of eight teeth, each tooth composed of two rows of cells, fenestrate and usually completely separated at the base, strongly vertically striate-reticulate, some striations forked-like in shape. At the base of the teeth, some striations are horizontally orientated, poorly developed or absent, particularly on the cell wall that is rupturing in the separation of the vertical rows of the cells that form each tooth.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Two new species of Microlicia D.Don (Melastomataceae, Microlicieae) from Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás State, Brazil
Microlicia gracilis and Microlicia xylopodifera, endemic to Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás State, Brazil, are described, illustrated and the conservation status is also provided. Both species resemble Microlicia ordinata and Microlicia ramosa that are also endemic to Goiás, by having sessile leaf with serrate and ciliate margin, pedicellate flower, triangular and short sepal and dimorphic stamens with bicolorous and polysporangiate anthers. However, M. gracilis differs by the long internode (2–4 mm long), concolorous, semi-amplexicaul and lanceolate leaf, and petal acuminate at the apex. Microlicia xylopodifera differs in having a robust xylopodium, horizontal or slightly ascending leaf and a dense crown of glandular trichomes at the apex of flower bud.
["Cerrado rupestre"]

Tongoloa arguta (Apiaceae), a new species from southwest China
A new species Tongoloa arguta (Apiaceae) is described and illustrated in this article. The new species grows in alpine bushes and meadows in south-western China. It resembles T. silaifolia, but differs from the latter by the length of the stem, ultimate segments of leaf and rays of the umbel. Phylogenetic analysis, based on nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences, is provided, as well as comparative morphology between related species.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant chemical constituents analysis"]

Phylogenetic relationships and status of taxa of Pulsatilla uralensis and P. patens s.str. (Ranunculaceae) in north-eastern European Russia
We studied the allopatric complex Pulsatilla patens (L.) Mill. s.lat. (Ranunculaceae) in north-eastern European Russia and the Urals. In this region, there are two kinds of P. patens with different perianth colours in monochrome and polychrome populations. To clarify their taxonomic boundaries, we used the sequences of chloroplast DNA (rbcL and matK) and nuclear DNA (ITS2), in addition to morphological characteristics. The combination of three markers (rbcL+matK+ITS2) was found to be the most effective for phylogenetic resolution. The samples of two morphologically-different taxa P. uralensis and P. patents s.str. were shown to form a single clade on the phylogenetic tree. Based on the molecular phylogenetic analysis, we were not able to unequivocally prove the independent existence of P. uralensis.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Two new species of Oreocharis (Gesneriaceae) from karst regions in Yunnan and notes on O. tetraptera and O. brachypoda from China
Two new species of Gesneriaceae, Oreocharis aimodisca and O. longipedicellata, from the limestone area of Yunnan Province, China, are described and illustrated. Their morphological relationship with similar species is discussed and colour photographs, detailed descriptions, distribution and habitat, as well as the IUCN endangered status are provided. We also discuss the accuracy of the scientific names of the described species O. tetrapterus from Guangxi, China in 2019 and O. brachypodus from Guizhou, China, in 2015, and put forward corrections related to name form.
["flora of Yunnan"]

Begonia guangdongensis, a new species of Begonia (Begoniaceae) from Guangdong, China
A new species of Begonia section Coelocentrum, B. guangdongensis W.H. Tu, B.M. Wang & Y.L. Li from Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated here. Morphologically, the new species is most similar to B. biflora T. C. Ku and B. longistyla Y. M. Shui & W. H. Chen, but differs from B. biflora by its rugose leaves and glabrous capsules and from B. longistyla by its glabrous stipules without ciliate margin, densely hirsute-pilose leaves and obtuse apex of bracts. Additionally, it is also somewhat similar to B. chongzuoensis Yan Liu, S. M. Ku & C.-I Peng, but there are significant distinctions in their stipules, leaves and bracts. The conservation status of B. guangdongensis is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR), according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Begonia sect. Coelocentrum"]

Festuca drakensbergensis (Poaceae): A common new species in the F. caprina complex from the Drakensberg Mountain Centre of Floristic Endemism, southern Africa, with key and notes on taxa in the complex including the overlooked F. exaristata
We present taxonomic notes on the Festuca caprina complex from southern Africa that includes description and illustration of the new species F. drakensbergensis from the Drakensberg Mountain Centre of Floristic Endemism of South Africa and Lesotho. Festuca drakensbergensis can be differentiated from F. caprina s.l. by forming lax short tufts with extravaginally-branching tillers and lateral-tending cataphyllous shoots or rhizomes present, basal foliage reaching < ½ the length of the culms, with generally shorter leaves and shorter anthers, 0.8−1.6(−1.8) mm long. The species also differs from the overlooked species F. exaristata – currently known from two collections from Lesotho − by its fibrous basal sheaths, usually sharp, keel-like leaf blade midrib, drooping panicle with lightly to densely scabrous pendent panicle branches, longer lemmas, 4.5−5.8 mm long, with awns usually present, 0.5–3 mm long, ovary apices sparsely to densely hairy and anthers 0.8−1.6(−1.8) mm long. Taxonomic notes on the different taxa of the F. caprina complex in southern Africa are also provided, including images, key, and lectotypification of F. caprina var. curvula. This research adds a further two endemic species (F. drakensbergensis and F. exaristata) and two endemic varieties (F. caprina var. irrasa and F. caprina var. macra) to the Drakensberg Mountain Centre of Floristic Endemism.
["alpine grassland"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Botanical Studies and Applications"]

A new species of Besleria (Gesneriaceae) from the Serranía El Pinche (Cauca), southwestern Colombia
A new species of the genus Besleria (Gesneriaceae), endemic to the department of Cauca, Colombia, is described and illustrated here. The new species, Besleria santaclarensis Clavijo & Sánchez-Taborda, was discovered in the Regional Protective Forest Reserve “Serranía El Pinche”, Cordillera Occidental of the Colombian Andes. B. santaclarensis is distinguished by the epedunculate inflorescences, usually in the leafless axils near the base, with up to eight orange flowers, and by the magenta calyx that covers 2/3 of the corolla.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Four new species from the diatom (Bacillariophyceae) genus Adlafia Moser, Lange-Bertalot & Metzeltin from waterbodies of Vietnam
Four species of the diatom genus Adlafia were found from waterbodies of Vietnam and described as new to science. Their formal descriptions are presented herein and they are illustrated by light and scanning electron micrographs. These new species are: A. lamdongiensis Glushch., Kulik. & Kociolek, sp. nov., A. babeiensis Glushch., Kulik. & Kociolek, sp. nov., A. vietnamensis Glushch., Kulik. & Kociolek, sp. nov. and A. dauiensis Glushch., Kulik. & Kociolek, sp. nov. These species are then compared to other similar taxa. Our new findings add to the number of species in this interesting genus and contribute to our understanding of the unique diatom flora found in Vietnam.
["Adlafia"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The segetal flora of Italy: an occurrence dataset from relevés in winter cereals and allied crop types
The segetal flora of winter crops includes mostly native or archaeophyte annual species that are often strong specialists of their habitats. Threatened by the intensification of agriculture, segetal flora is particularly valuable from a perspective of biodiversity conservation and evolution. Moreover, it contributes to maintain biodiversity in agroecosystems and provides several ecosystem services. The dataset here described was set up to provide the first inventory of the segetal flora of Italian winter cereal crops and allied crop types, the latter including flax and autumn-sown legumes. It includes 24,676 georeferenced occurrence data deriving from 1,240 floristic and phytosociological relevés. The data were collected from the greater part of Italian territory, in a temporal range spanning from 1946 to 2018.
["weed"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Astilbe uljinensis (Saxifragaceae), a new species from South Korea
A new species Astilbe uljinensis B.U.Oh & H.J.Choi is described from Gangwon-do and Kyeongsangbuk-do in South Korea based on its morphological characteristics and distributional pattern. A. uljinensis is easily distinguished not only from three other Astilbe species in South Korea, but all other species in the genus by possessing a green young rachis, dense long whitish glandular hairs on the young rachis, dense long brownish glandular hairs on the mature inflorescence, and a slightly undulated margin of leaf epidermal cells. Specific comparisons of morphological features such as the type of the trichome, the shape of the leaf epidermis cell, and the color of the young rachis that differentiate A. uljinensis from Astilbe chinensis, another South Korean Astilbe species, are provided.
["Gangwon-do"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Food Quality and Safety Studies"]

Two new species in Iris series Chinenses (Iridaceae) from south-central China
Iris dabashanensis C.A.Wilson, sp. nov. and I. probstii C.A.Wilson, sp. nov. from China are described and illustrated. Both species occur on grassy slopes in mountainous regions of south-central China. The former is known from the Daba Mountains in rocky, calcareous soils associated with shrubs or mixed conifer and hardwood forests, while the latter is known from a region of karst terrain beside rice fields or under pine woods in Guizhou Province. Molecular data resolves both species in series Chinenses in a subclade that also includes I. odaesanensis, while morphologically they are similar to I. henryi. These newly described species are two of four members of series Chinenses that occur in south-central China.
["Daba Mountains"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Bioactive natural compounds"]

On the Leucanthemopsis alpina (L.) Heywood growing in the Illyrian region
Leucanthemopsis alpina (L.) Heywood (Asteraceae, Anthemideae) is a small, caespitose plant growing in high alpine environments in all the main southern European mountain ranges. However, the species status in the Balkan Peninsula (and especially in the Dinaric Alps) is not very well known. Surrounding this area, different L. alpina subspecies are found in the Eastern Alps and in the Carpathians. These subspecies differ from one another, both morphologically and in chromosome number. The present study aims to better characterise the populations of L. alpina in the Illyrian and Balkan regions by undertaking a comprehensive survey of herbarium collections for the species in this area, by applying flow cytometry for ploidy determination and by sequencing of two chloroplast markers. Results from our investigation suggest that the only population of the species in the Dinaric Alps is found in the Vranica Mts (Bosnia and Herzegovina). This population consists of diploid plants (unlike tetraploid populations from the Eastern Alps) that are slightly distinct genetically from those of the subspecies growing in the Eastern Alps and the Tatra Mts. Both the ploidy and their genetic distinction indicate that Vranica Mts most probably served as a refugium for the species during the Pleistocene glaciations. Considering its isolated geographical range and its genetic distinction, the population of L. alpina growing in the Vranica Mts should be considered as a separate subspecies.
["alpine plants"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Notes on the genus Ophryosporus (Asteraceae, Eupatorieae) in Chile
Ophryosporus Meyen is reviewed for Chile and an updated species list for the country based on herbarium records and literature review is presented. A key to the Chilean species is provided and a distribution range of taxa is indicated based on herbarium records and our own collections. We include several lectotypifications as well as an epitypification of Ophryosporus hoppii. The presence of two species, O. hoppii and O. floribundus, formerly accepted for Chile, is questioned and their actual distribution discussed.
["Atacama Desert"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

A new rare and endemic species of Sloanea (Elaeocarpaceae) from the Chocó region of Ecuador
A new species collected in the lowland forests of the Chocó region of Ecuador, Sloanea cayapensis, is described and illustrated and its morphological similarities with other species of Sloanea are discussed.
["Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

The rediscovery of Uraria lacei Craib (Leguminosae) after 67 years from India
Manipur is one of the biodiversity-rich states in the North-Eastern region of India, and it is also part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot with rich plant diversity and endemism. Recent field exploration in the area has resulted in the rediscovery of Uraria lacei Craib after 67 years from its last collection in 1952. The rediscovery of this beautiful species fills a gap in the current distribution knowledge and should pave the way for its immediate conservation and propagation.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Henckelia siangensis (Gesneriaceae): a remarkable new species from Northeast India
Henckelia siangensis, a new species from Arunachal Pradesh of Northeast India, is described and illustrated here. The new species is remarkably different from all other allied species by its 5-winged calyx and elliptic-ovate calyx segments. It superficially resembles H. calva in glabrous stem and petioles, but differs from it in having persistent bracts, a campanulate 5-winged calyx and a style with glandular indumentum. A detailed morphological description, photographic illustration, and distribution of the new species are presented.
["Arunachal Pradesh"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A new record of critically endangered Saussurea bogedaensis (Asteraceae) from Dzungarian Gobi, Mongolia
A species in the family Asteraceae, Saussurea bogedaensis, was newly described from Bogeda Mountain in Xinjiang, China and is a critically endangered species in China. Morphological and genetic characteristics confirm the presence of this species in Mongolia, as it was found in Baitag Bogd Mountain (in the Dzungarian Gobi). In addition, the distribution and conservation status of S. bogedaensis are provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Taxonomic innovations in South American Selaginella (Selaginellaceae, Lycopodiophyta): description of five new species and an additional range extension
Five Selaginella species (i.e, S. gioiae, S. papillosa, S. pubimarginata, S. rostrata, and S. xanthoneura) from Neotropical rainforests of South America are described and illustrated as new, while S. surucucusensis, originally recorded only from Brazil, is redefined to account for species’ morphological characters throughout its expanded distribution range and also a novel illustration is provided for it. Inferred taxonomic affinities and conservation assessment are offered for species here treated. Selaginella gioiae is native to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, and S. xanthoneura is so far only known in Colombia, whereas S. surucucusensis is now known to occur in Colombia and Venezuela in the north-central part of South America. These three species are included in the “Selaginella flabellata group” based on their habit, stem shape, rhizophores position, and mega- and microspores color, and ornamentation. Selaginella papillosa, S. pubimarginata, and S. rostrata are native to Venezuela. Selaginella papillosa and S. pubimarginata morphologically belong in the “Selaginella deltoides group” based on their habit, stem type, shape of lateral leaves and their indument type distributed on upper surface of the leaf lamina. On the other hand, S. rostrata is considered to be a member of the “Selaginella microdonta group,” which is centered in the Guiana Highlands, based on its habit, stem type, and leaf size and shape, and for which a key to identify species is provided. Finally, all species threated here are classified in subg. Stachygynandrum based on their heteromorphic leaves, mostly quadrangular strobili, and monomorphic sporophylls shape (except for S. rostrata that has slightly dorsiventral and flattened strobili with somewhat heteromorphic sporophylls).
["Guiana Highlands"]

A new species of Chrysosplenium (Saxifragaceae) from Shaanxi, north-western China
Chrysosplenium zhouzhiense Hong Liu, a new species from Shaanxi, north-western China, is described and photographed. The new species belongs to Subgen. Gamosplenium Sect. Nephrophylloides Ser. Macrophylla and is most similar to C. macrophyllum and C. zhangjiajieense from which it differs by having a shorter stem, rhizome absent, basal leaf absent, sterile branch arising from the flowering stem and a light yellow flower with longer stamen. A global conservation assessment is performed and classifies C. zhouzhiense as Endangered (EN).
["Chrysosplenium zhouzhiense"]

Didymocarpus phuquocensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Phu Quoc Island, South-western Vietnam
A new species of Gesneriaceae, Didymocarpus phuquocensis, is described and illustrated from Phu Quoc National Park, Kien Giang Province, South-western Vietnam. It is most similar to D. pulcher, D. hookeri and D. punduanus in having 3-verticillate petiolate leaves, morphologically similar calyx, corolla, stamens, pistil and fruit, but differs from all in the glandular-pubescent stems, petioles and leaf blades, 1(–2)-flowered cymes, longer corolla and fruit and longer and densely glandular-puberulent ovary. Data on distribution, ecology, phenology and provisional conservation assessment of the new species are given along with an illustration and a colour plate.
["Didymocarpus"]

Rhamnella intermedia (Rhamnaceae), a new evergreen species from southwest Guangxi
Rhamnella intermedia, a new evergreen species from southwest Guangxi, is described and illustrated in this study. This species is similar to R. brachycarpa by the size and ratio of length to width of dried fruit and seeds, by which it differs from R. rubrinervis and R. tonkinensis. However, it differs from R. brachycarpa by rarely mucronate seed apices, larger ratio of length to width of leaves, leaf apices acuminate to long acuminate, shorter leaf petioles, and longer fruiting pedicels. Principal component analysis based on phenotypic traits further recognised three separated groups. Rhamnella rubrinervis and R. tonkinensis were clustered into one group; the other two groups represented R. brachycarpa and two Guangxi populations, respectively. Furthermore, phylogenetic analysis of nuclear ITS sequence variations highly supported that the two Guangxi populations represented an independent evolutionary lineage and were closest to R. rubrinervis. Four fixed nucleotide sites were found and were different from R. rubrinervis. However, besides the differentiated traits in seeds and fruit, densely pilose young branches also separated them from R. rubrinervis. In addition, during our field investigations, none of the three closely related species were found at locations where this new species was distributed. Therefore, this new species, based on the two Guangxi populations, is named R. intermedia. The key to four closely related species is also presented.
["evergreen species"]

Primulina flexusa sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from Guizhou Province, China
The limestone regions of Yunnan-Guangxi-Guizhou in southern and southwestern China are regarded as some of biodiversity’s hotspots for China’s Gesneriaceae where numerous rare new species of Primulina have been, or are being, described over the past two decades. Primulina flexusa, a new lithophytic species of Gesneriaceae from a limestone hill in a Karst area, from Guizhou, China, is described here with color photographs. It is similar to P. curvituba, but can be easily distinguished by a combination of characteristics, especially in the shape and length of its capsule. We found only one population with approximately 100 mature individuals at the type locality. This new species is provisionally assessed as Critically Endangered [CR C1] by using IUCN criteria.
["Cliff-dwelling"]

Taxonomic revision of the genus Glochidion (Phyllanthaceae) in Taiwan, China
A comprehensive taxonomic revision of the genus Glochidion J.R. Forst. & G. Forst. from Taiwan in China was carried out based on the examination of herbarium specimens and filed investigations. Eight species and three varieties are recognized, including a new species endemic to Taiwan, G. lanyuense Gang Yao & S.X. Luo, which is described and illustrated. Three names, viz. G. chademenosocarpum Hayata, G. kusukusense Hayata, and G. ovalifolium F.Y. Lu & Y.S. Hsu, are reduced to the new synonyms of G. rubrum Blume, G. lanceolatum Hayata, and G. ellipticum Wight, respectively. Two names, viz. G. lanceolatum Hayata and G. suishaense Hayata, are lectotypified here. A key to the Glochidion species in Taiwan is provided.
["lectotypification"]

Taxonomic revision of the Andean genus Xenophyllum (Compositae, Senecioneae)
The Andean genus Xenophyllum (Compositae, Senecioneae) is distributed along the high-Andes from northeastern Colombia to northern Chile and northwestern Argentina, mainly thriving in the paramo and puna ecoregions. It comprises suffruticose plants forming dense mats, hummocks, or clumps of erect stems. They are characterized by displaying involucral bracts fused at the base, supplementary bracts absent, and mostly radiate capitula with white ray corollas, seldom yellow or pink (disciform in one species). Traditionally, Xenophyllum species were treated as members of the genus Werneria, a morphologically close genus that includes rosettiform or scapiform perennial herbs. As currently circumscribed, Xenophyllum mostly differs from Werneria in having elongate stems. Herein, the first modern and comprehensive revision of the genus recognizing twenty-two species and two subspecies is presented. Werneria decumbens is synonymized with X. weddellii, as well as X. fontii with X. humile and X. oscartovarii with X. dactylophyllum. Likewise, four varietal names and two sectional names are proposed as new synonyms. Seven names are lectotypified, the name X. sotarense is epitypified, W. decumbens neotypified, and the supraspecific name W. sect. Integrifoliae Rockh. is typified. The combination X. crassum subsp. orientale comb. nov. is made. Descriptions and distribution maps are provided for all accepted species, in addition to an identification key. Ten species are illustrated, three of them for the first time.
["Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Two new taxa of Gesneriaceae in the karst regions in North Vietnam
One new species and one new variety of Gesneriaceae in Vietnam are described, viz. Paraboea sinensis var. glabrissima var. nov. and Primulina xuansonensis sp. nov. These two new taxa grow in limestone regions in North Vietnam. The former new variety differs from Paraboea sinensis (Oliv.) Burtt var. sinensis in its young leaf abaxially, stem and peduncle sparsely and thin pannose, acute top of leaves, pistil glandular-pubescent or pubescent. The latter new species differs in its bracts 1.6–2.5 × 1.3–1.5 cm, corolla 3–3.5 cm long, corolla tube slightly curved near the base and inflated on the adaxial surface near the corolla lobes, and corolla abaxial lip lobes rounded. The two new taxa grow at Xuan Son National Natural Reserve, North Vietnam and remain undisturbed with low risk of extinction.

Two new species of Paraboea (Gesneriaceae) in Caryota obtusa forests in Southwest China, with compound and simple dichasia, respectively
Two new species of Gesneriaceae, Paraboea myriantha sp. nov. and P. brevipedunculata sp. nov. are described and illustrated with photos. They grow in the Caryota obtusa forests from Yunnan Province of China. P. myriantha is closely related to P. glutinosa (Hand.-Mazz.) K.Y.Pan, but differs mainly in corolla outside glandular-puberulent, adaxial corolla lobes semicordate, corolla tube obliquely campanulate, and filaments glandular-puberulent. P. brevipedunculata is closely related to P. crassifolia (Hemsley) B. L. Burtt, but different mainly in simple dichasia with 1 and 2 flowers, peduncles 0.5–2 cm long and capsules slightly twisted. The geographical relationship between the two new species and their similar species has been discussed.
["Dichasia"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geological formations and processes"]

Deinostigma fasciculatum, a new species of Gesneriaceae in Yunnan, China
A new species of Deinostigma (Gesneriaceae) from Yunnan, China, Deinostigma fasciculatum W.H.Chen & Y.M.Shui, sp. nov., has been discovered and described. In the genus, the new species is similar to D. cicatricosum (W.T. Wang) D.J. Middleton & Mich. Möller and D. cyrtocarpum (D. Fang & L. Zeng) Mich. Möller & H.J. Atkins in dark purple flowers and falcate fruit, but differs from them mainly in the inflorescences with fasciculate flowers, calyx lobes (reflexed, narrowly lanceolate and 1.2–1.3 cm long), corolla tubes (sharply contracted below middle and white outside and below throat). The above three species grow nearby non-limestone wet cliffs and geographically isolated with different distributions (the new species in Southeast Yunnan, D. cicatricosum in Eastern Guangxi and D. cyrtocarpum in Southern Guangxi and Guangdong, China).
["Deinostigma cicatricosum"]

Petrocodon wenshanensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from southwestern China
A new species of Petrocodon, P. wenshanensis from Yunnan province of southwestern China, is described and illustrated here. P. wenshanensis morphologically closely resembles P. jingxiensis and P. lithophilus, but differs in vegetative and generative characters. Differences between the new species and others Petrocodon species occurring in Yunnan Province are also shown in the identification key.

Petrocodon rubiginosus, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guangxi, China
Petrocodon rubiginosus Y.G. Wei & R.L. Zhang, sp. nov., from Guangxi of South China, is described and illustrated with photographs. The new species is morphologically similar to Pet. hechiensis, but can be easily distinguished by a combination of characters, especially in its petioles, peduncles and pedicels covered with densely ferruginous pilose hairs.
["Jingxi"]

Petrocodon luteoflorus (Gesneriaceae), a new species from karst region in Guizhou, China
A new species of Gesneriaceae, Petrocodon luteoflorus Lei Cai & F.Wen was first described and illustrated from Maolan National Nature Reserve, Libo County, Guizhou Province, China. The diagnostic characters and notes of this species between its most morphologically similar species, P. dealbatus Hance, a detailed description, colour photographs, etymology, as well as distribution and habitat, are also provided in this paper.

Two new species of Allocheilos (Gesneriaceae) from the karst regions in Yunnan, China
Allocheilos W.T.Wang in Gesneriaceae was described in 1983 and is characterized by its 4-lobed adaxial lip and undivided abaxial lip with acute apex. The genus is endemic to the karst regions in southwestern China and is classified as endangered due to habitat loss. During surveys of the karst areas in Yunnan of southwestern China in 2017, we collected two unknown species of the genus and later confirmed their novelty to science based on the detailed observation of their morphological characteristics, viz. A. maguanensis W.H.Chen & Y.M.Shui and A. rubroglandulosus W.H.Chen & Y.M.Shui. Their relationships with the similar species and provisional conservation status are discussed.
["Allocheilos"]

Didymocarpus lobulatus (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Zhejiang Province, East China
Didymocarpus lobulatus, a new species endemic to Zhejiang province, eastern China, is described and illustrated with photographs. The new species is morphologically similar to D. heucherifolius, D. cortusifolius and D. salviiflorus in leaf morphology, but can be easily distinguished by a combination of characters, including the shape of bracts, calyx and calyx lobes.
["Flora of Zhejiang"]

Oreocharis wumengensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from northeastern Yunnan, China
A new species of Gesneriaceae, Oreocharis wumengensis Lei Cai & Z.L.Dao from Wumeng Mountain area, Yanjin County, Yunnan Province, China, is described. The new species is morphologically similar to O. panzhouensis Lei Cai, Y.Guo & F.Wen in the shape of corolla, number of stigma and stamens, but it can be easily distinguished from this species by the leaf shape and indumentum characters of leaf blade, calyx and stamens. Detailed descriptions with photographs of the plant and holotype, and comparisons with morphologically similar species, are also provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Oreocharis flavovirens, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Southern Gansu Province, China
Oreocharis flavovirens is a new species of Gesneriaceae from Gansu, China and is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to O. glandulosa, O. humilis and O. farreri, but those congeners of this new taxon can be distinguished by several salient characters. A description of O. flavovirens, together with illustrations and photos, are presented.
["Gansu of China"]

Four new species of Oreocharis (Gesneriaceae) in Yunnan province, China
Four new species of Oreocharis (Gesneriaceae) are described and illustrated. These new species grow in pairs in montane forests in Yunnan province, China. One pair grows in Wenshan county, Southeast Yunnan, viz. Oreocharis eriocarpa W.H. Chen & Y.M. Shui and O. wenshanensis W.H. Chen & Y.M. Shui and another pair grows in Yongde county, Southwest Yunnan, viz. O. fulva W.H. Chen & Y.M. Shui and O. lacerata W.H. Chen & Y.M. Shui. Their morphological and geographical relationship with similar species is discussed and the IUCN endangered status is provided, based on the available data.
["Flora of Yunnan"]

Two new combinations in Oreocharis (Gesneriaceae) based on morphological, molecular and cytological evidence
The newly-circumscribed genus Oreocharis is recently enlarged by incorporating ten other genera with high floral diversity. In this study, our morphological, molecular and cytological evidence supports our adding two species from other two different genera (Boeica and Beccarinda) to Oreocharis. The special corolla shape (campanulate or flat-faced) and related short filament of these two new combinations, Oreocharis guileana and O. baolianis, further enrich the diversity of floral characters of the enlarged Oreocharis. Meanwhile, some supplementary and amended descriptions of these two species are made here. Our morphological, molecular and geographical data indicate that O. guileana is related to O. pilosopetiolata to a certain extent. For O. baolianis, however, our current dataset does not allow conclusions on the species relationship within Oreocharis.
["Beccarinda baolianis"]

Conifer wood assemblage dominated by Podocarpaceae, early Eocene of Laguna del Hunco, central Argentinean Patagonia
During the early Eocene, Patagonia had highly diverse floras that are primarily known from compression and pollen fossils. Fossil wood studies from this epoch are scarce in the region and largely absent from the Laguna del Hunco flora, which has a highly diverse and excellently preserved compression assemblage. A collection of 26 conifer woods from the Laguna del Hunco fossil-lake beds (early Eocene, ca. 52 Ma) from central-western Patagonia was studied, of which 12 could be identified to genus. The dominant species is Phyllocladoxylon antarcticum, which has affinity with early-diverging Podocarpaceae such as Phyllocladus and Prumnnopitys. A single specimen of Protophyllocladoxylon francisiae probably represents an extinct group of Podocarpaceae. In addition, two taxonomic units of cf. Cupressinoxylon with putative affinity to Podocarpaceae were found. Diverse Podocarpaceae taxa consistent with the affinities of these woods were previously reported from vegetative and reproductive macrofossils as well as pollen grains from the same source unit. Some of the woods have galleries filled with frass. Distinct growth ring boundaries indicate seasonality, inferred to represent seasonal light availability. Growth ring widths suggest that the woods came from mature trees, whereas the widths and types of some rings denote near-uniform temperature and water availability conditions.
["fossil forests"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Sonerila cardamomensis (Melastomataceae), a new species from Cambodia
Sonerila cardamomensis, a new species of family Melastomataceae from the Central Cardamom Protected Area in Koh Kong province of southwestern Cambodia, is described and illustrated. The species is similar to S. violifolia Hook.f. ex Triana, but is readily distinguished by its cordate leaf base, lack of setae at the nodes, longer pedicels, smaller petals, smaller hypanthiums and smaller capsules.
["Cambodia"]

Discovery of the first succulent bamboo (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) in a new genus from Laos’ karst areas, with a unique adaptation to seasonal drought
Lush jungle flagship species, woody bamboos (Poaceae–Bambusoideae) are famed for their synchronous flowering as well as the extensive “bamboo forests” some species can form in tropical or temperate environments. In portions of their natural distribution, Bambusoideae members developed various adaptations to seasonality in environmental parameters, such as frost or seasonal drought. A new taxon, Laobambos calcareus, described here, is extremely novel in showing the first documented case of succulence in bamboos, with its ability to seasonally vary the volume of its stem depending on the quantity of water stored. Anatomical studies presented in this paper document this specificity at the cellular level. Though no flowers or fruits are known yet, unique morphological characteristics along with an investigation of its phylogenetic affinities using molecular data show that this new taxon should belong to a new genus herein described.
["Bambusinae"]

Rediscovery and taxonomic placement of Solanum polyphyllum Phil. (Solanaceae), a narrow endemic from the Chilean Atacama Desert
Although the original description of Solanum polyphyllum Phil. was made in 1891, this species was not seen until it was re-discovered 128 years later in 2019 in the Atacama Desert. Fruits and seeds were previously unknown and a complete description is provided here. This species was not treated in the most recent monograph of Solanum sect. Regmandra, but it should be incorporated in this section due to its glabrous, sessile and entire leaves, which are decurrent onto the stem. Morphologically, S. polyphyllum is similar to S. paposanum, also of section Regmandra, but differs in the entire leaves (against margins with 4–5 acute lobes in S. paposanum) and glabrous leaves (moderately pubescent adaxially and velutinous abaxially in S. paposanum). The rediscovery of S. polyphyllum at a new locality at the same altitudinal belt as the type, re-affirms its restricted distribution and endemism and supports a potential conservation status as an endangered species.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

New species of Anthurium Schott (Araceae) from the Kõkõi Eujã Natural Traditional Reserve of the Pacific coast, Cauca Department, Colombia
The Kõkõi Eujã Natural Traditional Reserve was created in 2019 to protect the golden poison frog (Phyllobates terribilis Myers, Daly & Malkin, 1978) in the Cauca Department of Colombia. As part of the biodiversity inventory of the reserve a new species of Anthurium with scandent habit was discovered. The new species is endemic to Colombia and it is more similar to A. caldodsonii Croat, A. boekei Croat, and A. scandens (Aubl.) Engl., but differs by having widely lanceolate leaves with acuminate apex, cuneate base, and acrodromous venation with three pairs of basal veins.
["Eper\u00e3ra Siapidaar\u00e3"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Primula sunhangii (Primulaceae): a new species from Hubei, Central China
This report provides a description of Primula sunhangii from the Shennongjia Forestry District, Hubei Province in Central China, which is categorized as a new species of the primrose family. Primula sunhangii is morphologically similar to P. involucrata Wall. ex Duby in terms of its simple umbel, efarinose, and prolonged bracts. However, P. sunhangii is distinguished by its glabrous sepal, short petiole (compare with blade) and cylindrical calyx and capsule. Molecular phylogenetic analysis based on nuclear and cpDNA genes demonstrates that P. sunhangii and P. involucrata are closely related. Combining genetic and morphological data, the recognition of P. sunhangii as a unique new species is supported.
["morphological and molecular data"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Two new species and a new species record of Aglaia (Meliaceae) from Indonesia
Two new species of Aglaia from Indonesia are described, Aglaia monocaula restricted to West Papua, and Aglaia nyaruensis occurring on Borneo (Kalimantan, Brunei, Sabah and Sarawak). A phylogenetic analysis using nuclear ITS and ETS, and plastid rps15-ycf1 sequence data indicates that the two new species of Aglaia are also genetically distinct. Aglaia monocaula belongs to sectionAmoora, while A. nyaruensis is included in section Aglaia. A dichotomous key, drawings and three-locus DNA barcodes are provided as aids for the identification of the two new species of Aglaia. In addition, the geographic range of Aglaia mackiana (section Amoora) is expanded from a single previously known site in Papua New Guinea to West Papua, Indonesia.
["Aglaia"]
["Phytochemical compounds biological activities", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

A synopsis of the expanded Rhaphiolepis (Maleae, Rosaceae)
As part of the integrative systematic studies on the tribe Maleae, a synopsis of the expanded Rhaphiolepis is presented, recognizing 45 species. Three new forms were validated: R. bengalensis f. contracta B.B.Liu & J.Wen, R. bengalensis f. intermedia B.B.Liu & J.Wen, and R. bengalensis f. multinervata B.B.Liu & J.Wen, and four new combinations are made here: R. bengalensis f. angustifolia (Cardot) B.B.Liu & J.Wen, R. bengalensis f. gigantea (J.E.Vidal) B.B.Liu & J.Wen, R. laoshanica (W.B.Liao, Q.Fan & S.F.Chen) B.B.Liu & J.Wen, and R. latifolia (Hook.f.) B.B.Liu & J.Wen. Furthermore, one new name, Rhaphiolepis yui B.B.Liu & J.Wen is proposed here, and three taxa were reduced as new synonyms. We also provide lectotypification for 13 names: Crataegus bibas, Eriobotrya philippinensis, Mespilus spiralis, Opa integerrima, Photinia luzonensis, Rhaphiolepis brevipetiolata, R. ferruginea var. serrata, R. fragrans, R. gracilis, R. hainanensis, R. kerrii, R. indica subsp. umbellata var. liukiuensis, and R. parvibracteolata.
["Eriobotrya"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Welcome to the Czech Republic again! Rare northern mosses Calliergon megalophyllum and Drepanocladus sordidus (Amblystegiaceae) in South Bohemia in light of their European distribution and habitat preferences
Two aquatic moss species, Calliergon megalophyllum and Drepanocladus sordidus (Amblystegiaceae, Bryophyta), which had been considered extinct in the Czech Republic, were found in the Třeboň Basin, South Bohemia, in 2016–2017. They co-occurred in extensive reed- and sedge-dominated fen pools with humic water on the shore of an old fishpond and the former species was also discovered in a small humic pool in an old shallow sand-pit. The new Czech sites of these rare boreal species represent one of the southernmost known outposts within their entire European range. Previously, the two species were only known from single records in the Czech Republic from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. To confirm our morphological observations, we used phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequence variation in four chloroplast loci (atpB-rbcL, trnL-trnF, rpl16, trnG) and one nuclear region, the internal transcribed spacers of ribosomal DNA (ITS). We found (1) monophyly of all Calliergon megalophyllum specimens tested; (2) based on chloroplast DNA sequences, monophyly among all Drepanocladus sordidus specimens and representatives of Pseudocalliergon turgescens and P. lycopodioides moss species; (3) based on nuclear ITS sequences, monophyly of all original D. sordidus specimens. These results corroborate morphological studies and thus confirm the existence of natural sites for the studied moss species in the Třeboň Basin, South Bohemia, Czech Republic.
["Aquatic mosses"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Synopsis of Schizanthus Ruiz & Pav. (Solanaceae), a genus endemic to the southern Andes
We present a taxonomic synopsis of the South American genus Schizanthus Ruiz & Pav. (Solanaceae), within which we recognise seventeen taxa (14 species with three infraspecific taxa). The genus is mainly distributed in Chile between the coast of the Atacama Desert and the southern temperate forests, while two species occur in the Argentinian Provinces of Mendoza and Neuquén. This taxonomic treatment is based on the analysis of herbarium specimens from 30 different herbaria. For each accepted species we provide details of type specimens and synonymy, key characters, habitat, distribution information and presence in public or private protected areas. We also incorporate a list of representative localities from examined material. We here described three new taxa: Schizanthus porrigens Graham ex Hook. subsp. borealis V.Morales & Muñoz-Schick, subsp. nov., Schizanthus carlomunozii V.Morales & Muñoz-Schick, sp. nov. and its variety Schizanthus carlomunozii var. dilutimaculatus V.Morales & Muñoz-Schick, var. nov., all of them from the coast of Coquimbo Region. We also recognise Schizanthus litoralis Phil. var. humilis (Lindl.) V.Morales & Muñoz-Schick, comb. nov., as a new combination.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Notes on Brachymenium in Guyana with a new species from Mt. Ayanganna
A relative of the African species described by Brotherus as Bryum perspinidens, has been discovered in Guyana with erect capsules and a short inner peristome. The Guyana material is recognized as a new species, and both species are placed in the genus Brachymenium. The characteristics that distinquish the genus are discussed with reference to the Guyana specimens of Brachymenium speciosum.
["African relationship"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Description of a new natural Sonneratia hybrid from Hainan Island, China
Here, we describe, illustrate and compare a new natural hybrid, Sonneratia × zhongcairongii Y. S. Wang & S. H. Shi (Sonneratiaceae), with its possible parent species. Based on its morphological characteristics and habitat conditions, this taxon is considered to represent a sterile hybrid between S. alba and S. apetala. In China, the new hybrid is only reported in the mangrove forest in Dongzhai Harbour, Hainan Island. It has intermediate characteristics with its parents by elliptical leaf blades, peltate stigma, terminal or axillary inflorescence with 1–3 flower dichasia, cup – shaped calyx (4–6 calyx lobes) and no petals. We also provide a key for the identification of Sonneratia species.
["Sonneratia"]

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

A study of community structure and beta diversity of epiphyllous liverwort assemblages in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
We evaluated the species richness and beta diversity of epiphyllous assemblages from three selected localities in Sabah, i.e. Mt. Silam in Sapagaya Forest Reserve, and Ulu Senagang and Mt. Alab in Crocker Range Park. A total of 98 species were found and a phytosociological survey was carried out based on the three study areas. A detailed statistical analysis including standard correlation and regression analyses, ordination of species and leaves using centered principal component analysis, and the SDR simplex method to evaluate the beta diversity, was conducted. Beta diversity is very high in the epiphyllous liverwort assemblages in Sabah, with species replacement as the major component of pattern formation and less pronounced richness difference. The community analysis of the epiphyllous communities in Sabah makes possible their detailed description and comparison with similar communities of other continents.
["Lejeuneaceae"]

Several new records, synonyms, and hybrid-origin of Chinese begonias
Begonia is a mega-genus with about 2500 species by most estimates, with China having over 210 accepted species. After field surveys, literature review and examination of herbarium specimens, some new taxa, new records, synonyms and the hybrid-origin of some taxa have been confirmed. Here, we report that Begonia dioica Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don and B. flagellaris Hara, both from Xizang (Tibet) are new to China; Begonia lipingensis Hance, B. muliensis T.T.Yu and B. sizemoreae Kiew are synonyms of B. circumlobata Hance, B. taliensis Gagnepain and B. longiciliata C.Y.Wu, respectively; and Begonia × lancangensis S.H.Huang and B. × malipoensis S.H.Huang & Y.M.Shui are natural hybrids.
["Begoniaceae"]

Camellia puhoatensis (Sect. Archecamellia – Theaceae), a new species from Vietnam
A new species of Theaceae, Camellia puhoatensis N.S. Lý, V.D. Luong, T.H. Le, D.H. Nguyen & N.D. Do, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Nghe An Province, North Central Coastal Region, Vietnam. It is most similar to C. chrysanthoides, C. flavida and C. petelotii within sect. Archecamellia in shape and colouration of leaf, petal, ovary and glabrous stamen, but differs by its young puberulous shoot, mature leaf sparsely puberulous abaxially and leaf base rounded or broadly obtuse, petiole and pedicel puberulous, tepals 12–13, ovary and style pubescent. The comparison between the new species and C. velutina and C. dormoyana is presented. Data on distribution, ecology, phenology, use and provisional conservation assessment of the new species are given along with an illustration and a colour plate.

A review of Calypogeia (Marchantiophyta) in the eastern Sino-Himalaya and Meta-Himalaya based mostly on types
The eastern part of the southern macroslope of the Himalayan Range, Hengduan Mountains and the complex of smaller ranges from Hengduan southward to northern Indochina is one of the taxonomic hotspots of Calypogeia in Asia and the world. Two main circumstances hamper the understanding of taxonomic diversity of the genus in this area: the absence of recent and detailed descriptions and identification keys and the necessity of studying fresh material with surviving oil bodies in leaf cells. This study resulted in 1) eleven species confirmed for this vast land, 2) seven more taxa recorded but likely based on identification mistakes and 3) fourteen more taxa that are not yet recorded but may be expected in the area. All these taxa are discussed, and most of them are illustrated and described based on the types; an identification key is provided. The occurrence of North Holarctic taxa is hardly probable in the Sino-Himalaya, whereas new records of taxa known from the southern half of the Japanese Archipelago, Taiwan and southeastern mainland China are possible.
["Calypogeiaceae"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Paraboea dolomitica (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Here we describe Paraboea dolomitica Z.Y. Li, X.G. Xiang & Z.Y. Guo, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guizhou, China. Based on recent extensive observations, this new species is morphologically similar to Paraboea filipes (Hance) Burtt, in having obovate leaf blades, 1–4-flowered cymes and purplish corolla, but differs from that species by the combination of denticulate leathery leaves, sparsely brown haired peduncles, two woolly bracts, reniform anthers and two glabrous staminodes. Additionally, molecular data support this new species as a member of a clade that includes P. crassifolia, P. tetrabracteata, P. peltifolia, P. vetutina, P. dushanensis, P. dictyoneura, P xiangguiensis and P. guilinensis, but it is distinct from them in leaf position, inflorescence, penduncle, bract and capsule. The conservation status of this species is considered to be “Vulnerable” (VU) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Gesneriaceae"]

Primulina hochiensis var. ochroleuca (Gesneriaceae), a new variety from a limestone area of Guangxi, China, and errata on five new species of Primulina
Primulina hochiensis var. ochroleuca, a new variety from a limestone hill of karst areas, Guangxi, China is described with color photographs. It resembles P. hochiensis var. hochiensis, P. hochiensis var. ovata and P. hochiensis var. rosulata, but can be easily distinguished by a combination of characteristics, especially by its corolla color. We found only one population with approx. 3000 mature individuals at the type locality. This variety is provisionally assessed as vulnerable [VU C1] using IUCN criteria.

Agrostis and Podagrostis (Agrostidinae, Poaceae) from páramos of Boyacá, Colombia: synoptic taxonomy including a key to Colombian species
We present taxonomic notes, including updated species descriptions and images, for the nine species of Agrostis and one species of Podagrostis found in páramos of Departamento Boyacá, Colombia (A. boyacensis, A. breviculmis, A. capillaris, A. foliata, A. cf. imberbis, A. mertensii, A. perennans s.l., A. stolonifera, A. tolucensis, Podagrostis trichodes). Agrostis cf. imberbis, previously known from austral South America, is newly recorded for Colombia, A. capillaris is a new regional record for Boyacá, and the name Agrostis stuebelii is lectotypified. We include keys in English and Spanish to distinguish the 15 species of Agrostis and two species of Podagrostis that are cited as occurring in Colombia.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Tree Root and Stability Studies"]

Capparis kbangensis (Capparaceae), a new species from central Vietnam
Capparis kbangensis Sy & D.V. Hai, a new species from Kbang District, Gia Lai Province, Vietnam, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to Capparis versicolor but differs by several characters such as emarginate leaf apex, hairy margin of sepals, smaller fruits, and fewer seeds per fruit. Its ecology and conservation status are provided along with a taxonomic key to the closely allied species.
["Capers"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

A threatened new species of Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae) from the Brazilian Cerrado revealed by morpho-anatomical analysis
A new species of Ipomoea, endemic to the Cerrado domain in Maranhão, Brazil, is described. Ipomoea maranhensis D.Santos & Buril, sp. nov. has been misidentified as I. burchellii Meisn. in several herbaria. Even though both species have oblong, pubescent leaves, they can be distinguished by morpho-anatomical characters. We present a diagnosis, complete description, illustration, taxonomic comments, conservation status and distribution map.

Loxostigma puhoatense (Gesneriaceae), a new species from North Central Vietnam
Loxostigma puhoatense N.D. Do et al., sp. nov., a new species of Gesneriaceae, is described and illustrated from Pu Hoat Nature Reserve, Nghe An Province, Vietnam. This species is morphologically similar to L. dongxingensis and L. damingshanensis in the plant habit, indumentum system of vegetative and reproductive characters, shape of leaf blades, calyx, pistil but differs from the latter two by the abaxially reddish-purple leaf blade with pubescent along veins, lateral veins 11–19, shorter white to pale yellowish-white corolla (3.7–3.8 cm long) with purple-spotted and glabrous inside, longer abaxial stamens in 2–2.1 cm, shorter and densely glandular-puberulent ovary in 1–1.2 cm, and sparsely glandular-puberulent style. Data on distribution, ecology, phenology, and vernacular of the new species are provided.
["Briggsia"]

Actinostachys minuta, a new species of grass fern from Mindanao, Philippines
Actinostachys minuta Amoroso & Coritico (Schizaeaceae), from Mindanao, Philippines, is described herein as a new species. This species is distinguished from all other species of Actinostachys (grass ferns) by its notably short and narrow fronds, distinct triangular stipe, and bifid apex of the sorophore lamina with profuse white long hairs. This species is distinct from the other known Philippine species of Actinostachys by its diminutive epiphytic habit and a habitat restricted to the trunks of the tree fern Sphaeropteris polypoda (Baker) R.M.Tryon. A taxonomic key to the species of Philippine Schizaeaceae that incorporates the new species is provided.
["ferns"]

Oxytropis shennongjiaensis (Fabaceae), a new species from Hubei, Central China
Here we describe Oxytropis shennongjiaensis, a new species of Fabaceae from Central China (Hubei Province). Morphologically, O. shennongjiaensis is closely similar to O. sitaipaiensis, O. melanocalyx and O. kansuensis, but differs in stem characters, with less conspicuous internodes; persistent herbaceous stipules; pale yellow to white corolla; and stipitate legumes, 3–5 mm with a long beak. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) and two chloroplast markers (trnL–F and psbA–trnH), also identified O. shennongjiaensis as a new species, which is consistent with our morphological analyses. Considering the morphological data and phylogenetic data presented here, we believe that this evidence satisfies the required diagnostic criteria to identify O. shennongjiaensis as a new species.
["Shennongjia National Park"]

An annotated checklist of the vascular plants of Aberdare Ranges Forest, a part of Eastern Afromontane Biodiversity Hotspot
The Aberdare Ranges Forest, located in the Central highlands of Kenya, is an isolated volcanic mountain in the East African Rift Valley with unique flora. Despite its refugial importance to rare and endemic plant species, the diversity of plants in the Aberdare Ranges Forest remains poorly understood. The checklist presented here is a collation of data obtained from multiple floristic surveys and from herbarium specimen collections from the forest. A total of 1260 vascular plants taxa representing 136 families, 613 genera, 67 subspecies and 63 varieties are documented. The ferns comprised 84 species, lycophytes seven, gymnosperms six and angiosperms were 1163 taxa. This represents 17.9% of the Kenyan taxa, 1.7% of the African taxa and 0.3% of all the vascular plants known in the world. A total of 18 taxa were endemic and 14 taxa were found to be threatened globally. The life form, voucher specimen(s), habitat and distribution range of each taxon and a brief analysis of taxa diversity is presented in this checklist. This is the first comprehensive inventory of vascular plants in the entire Aberdare Ranges, providing a solid basis for more sustainable management and improved conservation of this montane forest. The checklist is also an important contribution to the world checklist of plants required by the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Senecio festucoides (Senecioneae, Compositae), a new species from northern Chile
Senecio festucoides is described from northern Chile. The new species is morphologically similar to the discoid caespitose Andean species and belongs to the subgroup displaying yellow corollas and yellowish anthers and style branches. It is characterized by a weak, not self-supporting stem, narrowly linear leaves, long pedunculate capitula with (17–)21 involucral bracts, and minutely papillose achenes. Among other characters, the color of the corollas, anthers, and style branches and the number of involucral bracts differentiate it from S. scorzonerifolius, which is the morphologically closest species. The new species thrives in the desertic Puna ecoregion and grows amongst tufts of Festuca chrysophylla (Poaceae). Detailed pictures of living plants are provided, as well as a distribution map and a dichotomous key to the discoid caespitose Senecio species from northern Chile.
["Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

A new species of Psydrax (Vanguerieae, Rubiaceae) from the Gia Lai Plateau, southern Vietnam
A new species of Rubiaceae, Psydrax gialaiensis B.H.Quang, T.B.Tran & V.S.Dang, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from the Kon Chu Rang Nature Reserve, Gia Lai Province, southern Vietnam. This species is characterized by having strigose branches and leaves, a conspicuously bulging, short corolla tube, an accrescent nectary disc and a style with a dense tuft of hairs, which clearly distinguishes it from the other species in the genus. A description, vernacular name, conservation assessment, illustration, photographs, and a key to the species of Psydrax in Vietnam are provided.
["Gia Lai"]

Athyrium bipinnatum K.Hori (Athyriaceae), a new cornopteroid fern from Japan
I describe Athyrium bipinnatum sp. nov. and discuss morphological differences between closely related species. The new species is endemic to Japan, occurring on the islands of Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku. Based on the criteria of the International union for conservation of nature and natural resources, this new species is here considered endangered.
["Athyrium"]

New combinations and updated descriptions in Podagrostis (Agrostidinae, Poaceae) from the Neotropics and Mexico
Based on morphological study and corroborated by unpublished molecular phylogenetic analyses, five grass species of high-mountain grasslands in Mexico, Central and South America, Agrostis bacillata, A. exserta, A. liebmannii, A. rosei, and A. trichodes, are transferred to Podagrostis and bring the number of species of this genus recognized in the New World to ten. The name Apera liebmannii is lectotypified and epitypified. We provide an updated genus description for Podagrostis, and updated species descriptions, images, and notes on the new combinations. The diagnostic characteristics differentiating Podagrostis from Agrostis are: a) palea that reaches from (2/3) ¾ to almost the apex of the lemma; b) florets that usually almost equal the length of the glumes or are at least ¾ the length of the glumes; c) rachilla extension present and emerging from under the base of the palea as a slender short stub (rudimentary or up to 1.4 mm long, sometimes obscure in most florets in P. rosei), smooth or scaberulous, glabrous or distally pilulose (hairs < 0.3 mm long); d) lemmas usually awnless, sometimes with a short straight awn 0.2–0.6 mm long, inserted medially or in the upper 1/3 of the lemma, not surpassing the glumes (awn well-developed, straight or geniculate and inserted in lower 1/3 of lemma, not or briefly surpassing glumes in P. rosei). We include a generic key to distinguish the species of Podagrostis from other similar genera in Latin America and a key to distinguish the species of Podagrostis now accepted as occurring in these areas.
["Agrostis"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Tree Root and Stability Studies", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

A new species of Rhododendron (Ericaceae) from Guizhou, China
A new species of the Rhododendron (Ericaceae) in subgen. Tsutsusi sect. Tsutsusi from Puding county of Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. The new species, R. pudingense X.Y. Dai, C.H. Yang & Y.P. Ma, is similar to R. myrsinifolium Ching ex Fang et M. Y. He and R. minutiflorum Hu, but it can be easily distinguished by its length and being pubescent on inner surface of corolla tube, sparse hairs below the middle of filament and the glabrous style.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Jasminum parceflorum (Oleaceae), a new species from southern Yunnan, China
Jasminum parceflorum (Oleaceae), a new species from tropical limestone habitats in Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated here. The new species is similar to J. pierreanum and J. rarum, but can be distinguished by its linear calyx lobes, dry calyces without ridges, terminal 1 (or 3)-flowered cymes and axillary solitary flowers.
["Jasminum"]

Gymnosiphon syceorosensis (Burmanniaceae), the second new species for the Philippines
A new holomycoheterotrophic member of Burmanniaceae, Gymnosiphon syceorosensis, is described from Mt. Hamiguitan located on the island of Mindanao, Philippines. This species differs from the recently named G. philippinensis from Cebu in a number of quantitative and qualitative characters. Phenetic (neighbor-joining) and phylogenetic (maximum parsimony) analyses of characters from Asian and Australian Gymnosiphon species were conducted and diagnostic taxonomic features were discussed. This new species appears to be most closely related to G. affinis J.J. Sm. from New Guinea but differs in a number of floral features including inner perianth lobe shape, stamen position in floral tube, and anther connective shape.
["Dioscoreales"]

A new species of Eriobotrya (Rosaceae) from Yunnan Province, China
Eriobotrya laoshanica, a new species of Rosaceae from Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is easily distinguished from the most similar species E. malipoensis K. C. Kuan by its longer petioles (2–5 vs. 0.5–1 cm); indumentum on the lower leaf surfaces (densely tomentose vs. glabrous); much fewer flowers (15- to 30-flowered vs. 50- to 100-flowered) on the panicle; larger flowers (2.5–3 vs. 1.5–2 cm in diameter); and non-angulated (vs. angulated) young fruits.
["chloroplast genome sequences"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis", "Plant and animal studies"]

Michaelmoelleria (Gesneriaceae), a new lithophilous dwelling genus and species with zigzag corolla tube from southern Vietnam
Michaelmoelleria, a new genus from southern Vietnam is described with a single species, M. vietnamensis. The new genus is morphologically most similar to Deinostigma and Tribounia but it differs from the latter two by having four fertile stamens. Nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and plastid trnL-F intron spacer (trnL-F) DNA sequence data from the new genus and eighty-seven species representing 42 genera within tribe Didymocarpeae are used to resolve its generic placement. The molecular evidence reveals that it is most closely related to Cathayanthe rather than Deinostigma and Tribounia. The chromosome number is counted as 2n = 36 that further clarified its distinction comparing to the related genera within tribe Didymocarpeae. A global conservation assessment is also performed and classifies Michaelmoelleria vietnamensis as Critically Endangered (CR).
["Cathayanthe"]

A new species and a new record of Liparis sect. Decumbentes (Malaxidinae, Orchidaceae) from Peru
A new species of Liparis sect. Decumbentes, Liparis sessilis Damián, Salazar & Rimarachín, sp. nov is described and illustrated from Amazonas (Perú), including color photographs, a detailed comparison and an identification key to all the species of Liparis sect. Decumbentes. In addition, we report Liparis brachystalix Rchb.f. for the first time for the orchid flora of Peru, and select a lectotype for its synonym, L. commelinoides Schltr.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Twenty-six additional new combinations in the Magnolia (Magnoliaceae) of China and Vietnam
In accordance with the previous reduction of the remaining genera of subfamily Magnolioideae (Magnoliaceae) into the genus Magnolia, twenty-six new nomenclatural combinations are formally made by transferring to Magnolia some additional Chinese and Vietnamese taxa from the segregate genera of Manglietia, Michelia and Yulania. The following nine new combinations are created from Manglietia, namely Magnolia admirabilis, M. albistaminea, M. guangnanica, M. jinggangshanensis, M. maguanica, M. pubipedunculata, M. pubipetala, M. rufisyncarpa and M. sinoconifera. Also, twelve new combinations are created from Michelia, namely Magnolia caloptila, M. caudata, M. fallax, M. gelida, M. hunanensis, M. maudiae var. rubicunda, M. multitepala, M. platypetala, M. rubriflora, M. septipetala, M. sonlaensis, M. xinningia. Finally, five new combinations are created from Yulania, namely Magnolia baotaina, M. pendula, M. pilocarpa var. ellipticifolia, M. puberula and M. urceolata.
["Magnolioideae"]
["Plant-derived Lignans Synthesis and Bioactivity", "Phytochemical compounds biological activities", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Carpinus gigabracteatus, a new species from southeast Yunnan, China
Carpinus gigabracteatus Z. Qiang Lu, a new hornbeam species from southeast Yunnan of China, is described and illustrated in this study. It possesses extremely large bracts and is closely related to C. tsaiana Hu and C. tschonoskii Maxim., based on the characters of large bract size and bracts without lobes at the base of inner margins. Furthermore, morphological comparison suggested it was distinctly different from C. tschonoskii by a series of characters from leaf, infructescence, bract and nutlet and from C. tsaiana by its leaf length to width ratio (1.4–2.0 vs. 2.0–2.4), lateral veins significantly impressed adaxially, number of lateral veins on each side of midvein (9–14 vs. 14–17), bract length (3.9–4.8 vs. 2.5–3.2 cm) and bract length to width ratio (2.3–3.1 vs. 1.5–2.1). Therefore, this hornbeam, based on only one population from southeast Yunnan, is here erected as a new species, named as C. gigabracteatus.
["Carpinus gigabracteatus"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Two new species of Ardisia subgenus Tetrardisia (Primulaceae-Myrsinoideae) from Borneo
Ardisia argentiana and A. nagaensis from subgenus Tetrardisia are herein described and illustrated as new species. They are endemic to Borneo and the Indonesian province of Central Kalimantan and to the Malaysian state of Sarawak, respectively. Ardisia argentiana is unique in its linear-oblong leaves, with a long, acuminate-caudate apex, and finely serrulate margins, while A. nagaensis can be easily recognized by its elliptic-lanceolate leaves.

Mountains of the Mist: A first plant checklist for the Bvumba Mountains, Manica Highlands (Zimbabwe-Mozambique)
The first comprehensive plant checklist for the Bvumba massif, situated in the Manica Highlands along the Zimbabwe-Mozambique border, is presented. Although covering only 276 km2, the flora is rich with 1250 taxa (1127 native taxa and 123 naturalised introductions). There is a high proportion of Orchidaceae and Pteridophyta, with both groups showing a higher richness than for adjacent montane areas, which may be due to the massif’s relatively high moisture levels as a result of frequent cloud cover. However, in contrast to other mesic montane regions in southern Africa, there are relatively few near-endemic or range-restricted taxa: there is only one local endemic, Aeranthes africana, an epiphytic forest orchid. This is likely to be an effect of the massif having limited natural grassland compared to forest, the former being the most endemic-rich habitat in southern African mountains outside of the Fynbos Biome. Six other near-endemic taxa with limited distribution in this portion of the Manica Highlands are highlighted. The high number of invasive species is probably a result of diverse human activities in the area. The main species of concern are Acacia melanoxylon, a tree that is invading grassland and previously cultivated land, the forest herb Hedychium gardnerianum which in places is transforming forest understorey with an adverse effect on some forest birds, and the woody herb Vernonanthura polyanthes which invades cleared forest areas after fire. Future botanical work in the massif should focus on a more detailed exploration of the poorly known Serra Vumba on the Mozambican side and on the drier western slopes. This will allow for a more detailed analysis of patterns of endemism across the Manica Highlands.
["endemics"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Nomenclatural changes in Onagraceae
A new subspecies and two new combinations are proposed in Onagraceae. Ludwigia glandulosa Walter subsp. brachycarpa C.-I Peng, subsp. nov. is morphologically distinct from the typical subspecies, with smaller capsules and leaves, different seed coat, and a restricted distribution. Epilobium sect. Pachydium (Fischer & C. A. Meyer) Hoch & K. Gandhi, comb. nov. refers to a distinctive group of species formerly known as Boisduvalia Spach and as Epilobium sect. Boisduvalia (Spach) Hoch & P. H. Raven. And Chamaenerion speciosum (Decaisne) Hoch & K. Gandhi, comb. nov. is proposed for a distinctive Himalayan species originally described in Epilobium.
["Boisduvalia"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Calanthe sieboldopsis (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae, Collabieae), a new species from Luoxiao Mountains, eastern China
Calanthe sieboldopsis, a new species, is here described and illustrated from Luoxiao Mountains, Jiangxi Province, eastern China. It is morphologically similar to C. sieboldii Decne. ex Regel, but differs from the latter in having smaller flowers, longer spurs, rectangular mid-lobes with emarginate apex (vs. elliptic mid-lobes with mucronate apex), disc with 3 ridges and the proximal ends of the lateral 2 ridges enlarged with light reddish spots and minute white hairs (vs. disc with 5 ridges and 2 rows of white short hairs at base) and pollinia equal in size (vs. unequal in size). A preliminary risk-of-extinction assessment, according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, is given for the new species.
["Calanthe sieboldii"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Poa magellensis (Poaceae), a new species from Central Apennine (Italy)
A new species, Poa magellensis sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on collections from the Majella Mountains in Central Apennine, Italy. It is morphologically similar to P. ligulata Boiss., but can be distinguished by green leaves, the basal ones adaxially lightly scabrous or sparsely hairy, longer ligules particularly in the upper leaves, panicles denser with primary branches sub-erect to erect, glumes with broader scarious margin, more acute glumes and lemmas, lemmas and paleas longer, rachilla hairy, calluses usually with a crown of hairs or shortly webbed, caryopses longer. A distribution map of the species is also presented.
["Abruzzo"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Onosma fuyunensis (Boraginaceae), a new species from Xinjiang, China
Onosma fuyunensis, a new species of Boraginaceae from northern Xinjiang, China, is described and illustrated here. Onosma fuyunensis is similar to O. simplicissima and O. gmelinii; it differs in having a particularly bristly indumentum, unbranched stems, white and yellow corollas, anthers united only at base, and nutlets with a stipitate cicatrix. An updated key to the species of Onosma from Xinjiang and Altai Mountains is also provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Sorbus gongshanensis (Rosaceae), a new species from the Hengduan Mountains, China
Sorbus gongshanensis sp. nov., a new species from the Hengduan Mountains China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to S. kurzii from China (Yunnan & Xizang), Nepal, and Sikkim in the size of the leaflets, glabrous veins, persistent (sometimes) herbaceous stipules and reddish brown villous inflorescences and red fruits, but differs in its serrate leaflet margins toothed in the distal half or often almost to their base, reddish brown villous to glabrous hypanthium and reddish brown villous infructescences, among other characteristics.
["Flora of China"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research", "Fungal Biology and Applications"]

A new species of Dischidia (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) from North-eastern Thailand
Dischidia phuphanensis Chatan & Promprom, a new species from north-eastern Thailand, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to D. tonkinensis Costantin, but is distinguished by the shape of its leaves, the apices of the staminal corona lobes, the colour of the corolla and the absence of a corolline corona. The distinguishing characters of similar species are discussed. A key for the identification of those species in Thailand without pitcher-like leaves is provided.
["Marsdenieae"]

A foundation monograph of Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae) in the New World
A monograph of the 425 New World species of Ipomoea is presented. All 425 species are described and information is provided on their ecology and distribution, with citations from all countries from which they are reported. Notes are provided on salient characteristics and taxonomic issues related to individual species. A full synonymy is provided and 272 names are lectotypified. An extensive introduction discusses the delimitation and history of Ipomoea arguing that a broad generic concept is the only rational solution in the light of recent phylogenetic advances. Although no formal infrageneric classification is proposed, attention is drawn to the major clades of the genus and several morphologically well-defined clades are discussed including those traditionally treated under the names Arborescens, Batatas, Pharbitis, Calonyction and Quamoclit, sometimes as distinct genera, subgenera, sections or series. Identification keys are provided on a regional basis including multi-entry keys for the main continental blocks. Six species are described as new, Ipomoea nivea J.R.I. Wood & Scotland from Peru, I. apodiensis J.R.I. Wood & Scotland from Brazil, I. calcicola J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. pochutlensis J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. zacatecana J.R.I. Wood & Scotland and I. ramulosa J.R.I. Wood & Scotland from Mexico, while var. australis of I. cordatotriloba is raised to specific status as I. australis (O’Donell) J.R.I. Wood & P. Muñoz. New subspecies for I. nitida (subsp. krapovickasii J.R.I. Wood & Scotland) and for I. chenopodiifolia (subsp. bellator J.R.I. Wood & Scotland) are described. The status of previously recognized species and varieties is changed so the following new subspecies are recognized: I. amnicola subsp. chiliantha (Hallier f.) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. chenopodiifolia subsp. signata (House) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. orizabensis subsp. collina (House) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. orizabensis subsp. austromexicana (J.A. McDonald) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. orizabensis subsp. novogaliciana (J.A. McDonald) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. setosa subsp. pavonii (Hallier f.) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. setosa subsp. melanotricha (Brandegee) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. setosa subsp. sepacuitensis (Donn. Sm.) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. ternifolia subsp. leptotoma (Torr.) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland. Ipomoea angustata and I. subincana are treated as var. angustata (Brandegee) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland and var. subincana (Choisy) J.R.I. Wood & Scotland of I. barbatisepala and I. brasiliana respectively. Attention is drawn to a number of hitherto poorly recognized phenomena in the genus including a very large radiation centred on the Parana region of South America and another on the Caribbean Islands, a strong trend towards an amphitropical distribution in the New World, the existence of a relatively large number of species with a pantropical distribution and of many species in different clades with storage roots, most of which have never been evaluated for economic purposes. The treatment is illustrated with over 200 figures composed of line drawings and photographs.
["America"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Vascular plants of Victoria Island (Northwest Territories and Nunavut, Canada): a specimen-based study of an Arctic flora
Victoria Island in Canada’s western Arctic is the eighth largest island in the world and the second largest in Canada. Here, we report the results of a floristic study of vascular plant diversity of Victoria Island. The study is based on a specimen-based dataset comprising 7031 unique collections from the island, including some 2870 new collections gathered between 2008 and 2019 by the authors and nearly 1000 specimens variously gathered by N. Polunin (in 1947), M. Oldenburg (1940s–1950s) and S. Edlund (1980s) that, until recently, were part of the unprocessed backlog of the National Herbarium of Canada and unavailable to researchers. Results are presented in an annotated checklist, including keys and distribution maps for all taxa, citation of specimens, comments on taxonomy, distribution and the history of documentation of taxa across the island, and photographs for a subset of taxa. The vascular plant flora of Victoria Island comprises 38 families, 108 genera, 272 species, and 17 additional taxa. Of the 289 taxa known on the island, 237 are recorded from the Northwest Territories portion of the island and 277 from the Nunavut part. Thirty-nine taxa are known on the island from a single collection, seven from two collections and three from three collections. Twenty-one taxa in eight families are newly recorded for the flora of Victoria Island: Artemisia tilesii, Senecio lugens, Taraxacum scopulorum (Asteraceae); Crucihimalaya bursifolia, Draba fladnizensis, D. juvenilis, D. pilosa, D. simmonsii (Brassicaceae); Carex bigelowii subsp. bigelowii, Eriophorum russeolum subsp. albidum (Cyperaceae); Anthoxanthum monticola subsp. monticola, Bromus pumpellianus, Deschampsia cespitosa subsp. cespitosa, D. sukatschewii, Festuca rubra subsp. rubra, Lolium perenne, Poa pratensis subsp. pratensis (Poaceae); Stuckenia filiformis (Potamogetonaceae); Potentilla × prostrata (Rosaceae); Galium aparine (Rubiaceae); and Salix ovalifolia var. ovalifolia (Salicaceae). Eight of these are new to the flora of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago: Senecio lugens, Draba juvenilis, D. pilosa, Anthoxanthum monticola subsp. monticola, Bromus pumpellianus, Deschampsia cespitosa subsp. cespitosa, Poa pratensis subsp. pratensis and Salix ovalifolia var. ovalifolia. One of these, Galium aparine, is newly recorded for the flora of Nunavut. Four first records for Victoria Island are introduced plants discovered in Cambridge Bay in 2017: three grasses (Festuca rubra subsp. rubra, Lolium perenne, and Poa pratensis subsp. pratensis) and Galium aparine. One taxon, Juncus arcticus subsp. arcticus, is newly recorded from the Northwest Territories. Of the general areas on Victoria Island that have been botanically explored the most, the greatest diversity of vascular plants is recorded in Ulukhaktok (194 taxa) and the next most diverse area is Cambridge Bay (183 taxa). The floristic data presented here represent a new baseline on which continued exploration of the vascular flora of Victoria Island – particularly the numerous areas of the island that remain unexplored or poorly explored botanically – will build.
["Climate change and permafrost", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Capsicum carassense (Solanaceae), a new species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Capsicum carassense Barboza & Bianchetti sp. nov., a species from mid-elevation of the Atlantic Forest (Minas Gerais, Brazil) is described and illustrated. This endemic new species is distinguished from the most similar C. mirabile Mart. by its moderate to dense general pubescence, narrowly elliptic leaves and larger calyx appendages and corollas. A key for the native Brazilian species of Capsicum growing in the state of Minas Gerais is also provided.

Cryptocarya kaengkrachanensis, a new species of Lauraceae from Kaeng Krachan National Park, southwest Thailand
A new species of Lauraceae, Cryptocarya kaengkrachanensis M.Z.Zhang, Yahara & Tagane, from Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi Province, southwestern Thailand, is described and illustrated. This species is morphologically most similar to C. amygdalina in that its leaves are pinnately veined, leathery, and apparently glabrous (but microscopically hairy) abaxially, twigs are yellowish brown hairy, and fruits are 1.36 to 1.85 times longer than width. However, C. kaengkrachanensis is distinguished from C. amygdalina in having the leaves of ovate and elliptic (vs. oblong-lanceolate) with leaf aspect ratio (length:width) from 1.38 to 2.28 (vs. 2.46–3.43), and ovoid fruits (vs. ellipsoid) with stalk distinctly swollen (vs. not or only slightly swollen). In addition, phylogenetic trees constructed based on internal transcribed spacer sequences (ITS) and genome-wide SNPs using MIG-seq showed that C. kaengkrachanensis is not sister to C. amygdalina and is distinct from all the other Cryptocarya species hitherto recognized in Thailand. Analysis including other species demonstrates that C. floribunda should be a synonym of C. amygdalina, but we recognize C. scortechinii as a distinct species.
["Cryptocarya"]

An integrative taxonomic approach reveals a new species of Eranthis (Ranunculaceae) in North Asia
A new endemic species, Eranthis tanhoensis sp. nov., is described from the Republic of Buryatia and Irkutsk Province, Russia. It belongs to Eranthis section Shibateranthis and is morphologically similar to E. sibirica and E. stellata. An integrative taxonomic approach, based on cytogenetical, molecular and biochemical analyses, along with morphological data, was used to delimit this new species.
["Biochemistry"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Pinguicula rosmarieae Casper, Bussmann & T.Henning (Lentibulariaceae), a new butterwort from the Amotape-Huancabamba Zone (northern Peru)
The insectivorous genus Pinguicula occurs along the whole Andean mountain chain from Colombia-Venezuela in the north to Tierra del Fuego in the south with a short interruption in the Peruvian-Chilean desert range. This paper describes a new and striking species of Pinguicula that occurs in the south-eastern part of the Amotape-Huancabamba Zone in north Peru. It grows either as a lithophyte on moist rocks or as an epiphyte on Polylepis multijuga Pilg. in the wet highlands of the Cordillera Central. Pinguicula rosmarieae Casper, Bussmann & T.Henning, sp. nov. is clearly distinguished by a basal rosette of ovate-obovate leaves spread out flat on the ground and especially by a two-partite corolla with a straight uniform tube-spur complex, two features unknown from other Andean Pinguicula species. The morphological similarity to P. calyptrata Kunth is discussed and the habitat and distribution of P. rosmarieae are characterised.
["Lentibulariaceae"]
["Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Four new species of Acalypha L. (Euphorbiaceae, Acalyphoideae) from the West Indian Ocean Region
Four new species of Acalypha (Euphorbiaceae, Acalyphoideae) from the Western Indian Ocean Region, based on morphological and molecular evidence, are described, illustrated, and mapped. Acalypha gillespieae sp. nov., A. leandrii sp. nov. and A. nusbaumeri sp. nov. are endemic to Madagascar, and A. mayottensis sp. nov. is known only from Mbouzi islet (Mayotte), in the Comoros Archipelago. We also describe for the first time in Acalypha the presence of membranous or chartaceous perules covering the axillary buds. Preliminary conservation assessments of the new species are also provided.
["Comoros"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Cassava research and cyanide"]

Lysimachia xiangxiensis (Primulaceae), a new species from limestone area in Hunan Province, central China
A new species of Lysimachia, L. xiangxiensis (Primulaceae), is described and illustrated from western Hunan, central China. The species is similar to L. melampyroides in plant densely strigillose, leaves subglabrous adaxially, and flowers usually solitary in axils of upper leaves, but differs by the succulent leaves, the creeping or ascending stems 15–25 cm long, and the suborbicular to broadly elliptic corolla lobes. This new species is also supported by a molecular phylogenetic analysis of some Lysimachia species based on ITS sequence data.
["Lysimachia"]

Drymaria veliziae (Caryophyllaceae), a new species from the Andes of Cajamarca (North Peru)
A new species from the Northern Peruvian Andes (Cajamarca department), Drymaria veliziae sp. nov., is proposed in the present paper. It grows in the high-elevation montane grasslands and it is morphologically similar to D. auriculipetala from which it differs in having elliptic-ovate leaves, blade margin bases glandular, large number of stipules arranged in a pedicel form at the leaf axis and by the short and glandular pedicels. A detailed description, original photographs and a location map are provided, as well as an updated diagnostic key of Drymaria Ser. Frutescens. The IUCN status of the new species is assessed as Endangered (EN).
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Two new species of Dendrophthora (Viscaceae) from the Venezuelan Andes
Two new species of Dendrophthora Eichler (Viscaceae) from northwestern Venezuela are described and illustrated. Both mistletoes, D. apiculata Canelón et al., sp. nov. and D. coronata Canelón et al., sp. nov., are confined to subpáramo and páramo ecosystems of the Venezuelan Andes and are, at present, only known from Guaramacal National Park (Portuguesa and Trujillo states). Ecological aspects and possible taxonomic affinities are discussed. A distribution map also is presented.
["Flora of Venezuela"]

Dilochia deleoniae (Orchidaceae), a new species from Mindanao, Philippines
A new species, Dilochia deleoniae Tandang & Galindon (Orchidaceae), from Mindanao Island, Philippines is described and illustrated herein. This species is distinct from other known Philippine Dilochia species by its terrestrial habit and is distinguished from all known Dilochia species by its monopodial inflorescence, rarely branching in two, and a pale yellow to dull orange or brownish-yellow labellum devoid of purple spots.

Typification of 23 names in Eriobotrya (Maleae, Rosaceae)
As part of a comprehensive systematic study on the genus Eriobotrya and its close relatives from the E & SE Asia, new typifications of 23 names are presented here, along with some nomenclatural notes of the names involved. We lectotypified 22 names including accepted names and synonyms. They are: E. acuminatissima, E. bengalensis var. angustifolia; E. bengalensis f. intermedia, E. brackloi, E. brackloi var. atrichophylla, E. elliptica var. petelotii, E. fragrans var. furfuracea, E. glabrescens, E. grandiflora, E. henryi, E. oblongifolia, E. petiolata, E. platyphylla, E. poilanei, E. prinoides, E. prinoides var. laotica, E. salwinensis, E. serrata, E. stipularis, Hiptage cavaleriei, Photinia longifolia, Symplocos seguinii. One neotype of Photinia dubia was also proposed in this study, and E. pseudoraphiolepis and Mespilus cuila were identified as superfluous names. In addition, we also summarized the typification of 18 names for taxonomic reference: E. angustissima, E. balgooyi, E. condaoensis, E. × daduheensis, E. elliptica, E. fulvicoma, E. fragrans, E. glabrescens var. victoriensis, E. hookeriana, E. latifolia, E. obovata, E. malipoensis, E. merguiensis, E. tengyuehensis, E. wardii, Mespilus bengalensis, Photinia deflexa, and M. japonica.
["integrative systematics"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Berry genetics and cultivation research", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Solanum hydroides (Solanaceae): a prickly novelty from the land of the sugar loaves, central Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Solanum hydroides Gouvêa & Giacomin, sp. nov., is described from central Brazilian Atlantic Forest. It is known from only three localities in Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais states, where granitic/gneissic outcrops (inselbergs or sugar loaves) are ubiquitous. The new species, here described, belongs to Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum (or the Leptostemonum clade; i.e. the spiny solanums) and is morphologically related to S. hexandrum Vell. and S. sublentum Hiern, with which it shares the shrubby habit, decurrent leaf bases and well-developed calyces that become accrescent, covering glabrous fruits. Solanum hydroides is unique in its combination of comparatively more delicate habit, indumentum of exclusively stellate eglandular trichomes, accrescent but never inflated fruiting calyces that only partially cover the fruits and comparatively shortly lobed and strictly white corollas. The species is threatened with extinction and assessed as Vulnerable (VU), based on the IUCN criteria.
["Leptostemonum clade"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Eriocoma valdesii, a new species from México (Poaceae, Stipeae)
Eriocoma valdesii sp. nov., is described and illustrated. The new species was found growing on calcareous rocky slopes and hillsides between 1700–2721 m in Coahuila, Nuevo León, San Luis Potosí, and Tamaulipas. The new species is morphologically similar to Eriocoma lobata but differs in having ligules (2–) 4.5–8.5 mm long with acute to narrowly acute and lacerate apices and florets with a sharp-pointed callus. In addition, we include a key to the species of Eriocoma in northeastern México.
["Eriocoma"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Archaeology and Natural History"]

Two new species of the Andean genus Xenophyllum (Senecioneae, Compositae)
Two new species of Xenophyllum are described from the Andes, X. funkianum sp. nov. from Ecuador and X. lorochaqui sp. nov. from northwestern Argentina. Both species are compared with the morphologically closest taxa and useful characters for their proper identification are provided. Detailed illustrations and distribution maps are also presented, as well as pictures of living plants when available.
["Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

Two new species for Gochnatia Kunth (Asteraceae, Gochnatieae) and an extension of the tribal range into Ecuador
Two new species are added to the narrowly delimited genus Gochnatia. Of these, G. lojaensis sp. nov. represents a northern extension of the genus and tribe into Ecuador and G. recticulifolia sp. nov. occurs in northern Peru. In addition to descriptions for the two new species, a key is provided for all known species in the genus Gochnatia and a pubescence character is noted that clearly separates Gochnatia from Moquiniastrum.
["Italian Fascism and Post-war Society", "Cinema and Media Studies"]

Paraphlomis kuankuoshuiensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from the limestone areas of northern Guizhou, China
Paraphlomis kuankuoshuiensis (Lamiaceae), a new species found in the limestone areas of northern Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated in this paper. Based on its tubular-campanulate calyx, this taxon should be a member of sect. Paraphlomis Prain. The new species resembles P. patentisetulosa C.Y. Wu & H. W. Li, P. hispida C.Y. Wu, and P. hirsutissima C.Y. Wu & H.W. Li, but differs from these three taxa in the following aspects: the stems are very short (<7 cm), with one or two short internodes, giving the impression of having a tuft of basal leaves; it has sparsely setose hairs on the outer surface of the calyces and short fruiting calyces. The florescence, fruit period, habitat, and the geographical distribution of P. kuankuoshuiensis are also quite different from the three closely related species.

Zingiber chengii (Zingiberaceae), a new species from Taiwan
In this article, we describe a new species, Zingiber chengii Y.H. Tseng, C.M. Wang & Y.C. Lin, discovered on a rock cliff of Youluo riverside in northern Taiwan. This species is easily distinguished from other known congeners by its grass-like leaves, spikes composed of a few sterile bracts, and seeds one-third enveloped by the aril. Color illustrations, line drawings, and a key to species of Zingiber in Taiwan are provided as well as comparative morphology in relation to its allied species, geographical distribution, and conservation status.
["northern Taiwan"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies"]

Taxonomic studies on Amomum Roxburgh s.l. (Zingiberaceae) in Myanmar II: one new species and five new records for the flora of Myanmar
In the course of a study of Amomum s.l. (Zingiberaceae) in Myanmar, Amomum schistocalyx Y.H. Tan & H.B. Ding, from Htamanti Wildlife Sanctuary, Sangaing Region of Northern Myanmar is described and illustrated as new to science here. Five taxa: A. yingjiangense S.Q. Tong & Y.M. Xia, A. carnosum V.P. Thomas & M. Sabu, A. tibeticum (T.L. Wu & S.J. Chen) X.E. Ye, L. Bai & N.H. Xia, Lanxangia scarlatina (H.T. Tsai & P.S. Chen) M.F. Newman & Škorničk, and Meistera yunnanensis (S.Q. Tong) Škorničk. & M.F. Newman, are newly recorded from Myanmar. The photographic illustrations, the distributions, and voucher specimens for each species are provided.
["Kachin State"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Pharmacological Effects of Medicinal Plants"]

Colocasia kachinensis, a new species of Araceae from Myanmar
Colocasia kachinensis S.S. Zhou & J.T. Yin, is described and illustrated as a new species of Araceae from Kachin, Mynamar. The morphological characters are compared to those of other Colocasia species. Colocasia kachinensis is closely related to C. menglaensis J.T Yin, H. Li & Z.F. Xu, 2004, but differs from in having an erect stem, no stolons, smaller size, a different pattern of surface bristle distribution and male flowers 1–4-androus with stamens connate in truncate synandrium.
["Araceae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

A new species and two new records of Goniothalamus (Annonaceae) from Lao PDR
Goniothalamus saccopetaloides Y.H. Tan & Bin Yang, a new species is described and illustrated from Laos. This species shows morphological similarities to G. yunnanensis W.T. Wang, but it differs from the latter by having almost fleshy, involute and saccate outer petals, subglobose monocarps, and single seeded monocarps. Goniothalamus cheliensis, and G. calvicarpus are new records for the Flora of Lao PDR. A key to Goniothalamus species indigenous to Laos is provided here.
["Goniothalamus"]

Three new fossil records of Equisetum (Equisetaceae) from the Neogene of south-western China and northern Vietnam
Three fossil species of Equisetum (Equisetaceae) were reported from the Neogene of south-western China and northern Vietnam, based on well-preserved rhizomes with tubers. Equisetum cf. pratense Ehrhart from the middle Miocene of Zhenyuan County, Yunnan Province, China is characterised by a bunch of three ovate tubers with longitudinal ridges on the surface. Equisetum yenbaiense A.T. Aung, T. Su, T.V. Do & Z.K. Zhou, sp. nov. from the late Miocene of Yenbai Province, Vietnam is characterised by four bunches of elongate tubers arranged in a whorl on a node. Equisetum yongpingense A.T. Aung, T. Su & Z.K. Zhou, sp. nov. from the late Pliocene of Yunnan is characterised by fibrous roots on most nodes and two to four bunches of large cylindrical tubers arranged in a whorl on a node. Floristic assemblages suggest that these species might have grown near a riverside or lakeshore. These new fossil records improve our understanding of species richness of Equisetum and their distribution range during the Neogene in Asia.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

A new species and two new combinations of Monolophus (Zingiberaceae) from Indo-Burma
Monolophus odontochilus Y.H.Tan & H.B.Ding, a new species from Northern Myanmar, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to M. linearis, but differs by having elliptic to oblong leaves (vs. linear-lanceolate to lanceolate), bilobed ligules (vs. entire), purely white corolla (vs. pinkish white), semi-orbicular crenate labellum (vs. trilobed). In addition, a diagnostic key to the new species of Monolophus and its closely related non-yellow flowered species is provided. New combinations are proposed here for Caulokaempferia phokhamii Picheans. & Douangde. and C. wongsuwaniae Picheans. & Douangde. from Laos.
["Caulokaempferia phokhamii"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Southeast Asian Sociopolitical Studies", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies"]

Blumea htamanthii (Asteraceae), a new species from Myanmar
A new species, Blumea htamanthii Y.L. Peng, C.X. Yang & Y. Luo from Myanmar is described. The new species is distinguished from B. bifoliata by its leaves with short petioles, abaxially purple, leaf blade with papillary hair and sparse multicellular villous, capitula with 1–4 heads, glabrous florets and usually unbranched stems. A key to Blumea species in Myanmar is provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

An updated checklist of Begonia (Begoniaceae) in Laos, with two new species and five new records
Two new species of Begonia L. (Begoniaceae), B. laotica (sect. Parvibegonia) and B. hypoleuca (sect. Reichenheimia), from north Laos are described and illustrated. Begonia augustinei, B. dryadis, B. lancangensis, B. sizemoreae and B. sillentensis subsp. mengyangensis were newly recorded taxa in Laos. Furthermore, an updated checklist of Begonia of Laos is also compiled.
["sect. Parvibegonia"]

Taxonomic studies on Begonia (Begoniaceae) in Myanmar I: three new species and supplementary description of Begonia rheophytica from Northern Myanmar
Three new species of Begonia (B. chenii, B. putaoensis and B. crassitepala) belonging to Begonia section Platycentrum and a supplementary description of B. rheophytica with a detailed description of female flowers from Putao, Kachin State, Northern Myanmar, are described and illustrated. All the new species are endemic to Northern Myanmar and can be easily distinguished from other species among the section Platycentrum. A detailed description, photographs, habitat, distribution and a comparison with the most related allied species for all new species are provided.
["Kachin State"]

Ainsliaea daheishanensis (Asteraceae): a new species from China
In this work, we describe a new species, Ainsliaea daheishanensis Y.L.Peng, C.X.Yang & Y.Luo, based on morphological traits. The new species was discovered in the mountains of Yunnan, near the border between Myanmar and China. The new species differs from the phenotypically closely-related Ainsliaea foliosa Handel-Mazzetti in the morphology of the leaf veins and phyllaries, those having a protruding abaxial reticulate pattern in the lower and median part of stem with white hairs and narrow inner phyllaries. A key to the three closed Ainsliaea species occurring in China is provided.

Schizostachyum dakrongense (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new species from Dakrong Nature Reserve, Vietnam
Schizostachyum dakrongense is a new species of woody bamboo from Dakrong Nature Reserve, Quang Tri Province, central Vietnam. It is closely related to S. hainanense but differs by its pseudospikelets having terminal rachilla segments with ciliate margin and 6 bracts; culm sheath with the base of the outer margin having a slight projection below its point of attachment at the node, as well as sheath blades usually less than half as long as the culm sheath proper; and leaf blades pale-puberulent and sparsely pilosulous on the abaxial surface. The new species is described and illustrated here.

The taxonomic identities of Pholidota wenshanica and P. subcalceata (Orchidaceae, Coelogyninae)
P. wenshanica S.C.Chen & Z.H.Tsi and P. subcalceata Gagnep. have long been recognized as synonyms of P. leveilleana Schltr. In the present study, detailed morphological comparisons suggest that specimens referred to as P. wenshanica and P. subcalceata differ significantly in both vegetative and floral characters from those of P. leveilleana. Here we resurrect P. wenshanica and P. subcalceata as independent species. Key diagnostic characters essential for delineating identities of these species are presented.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ecology and Conservation Studies"]

Two new species of Phyllanthus (Phyllanthaceae) from Thailand
Two Phyllanthus species are newly described from a limestone mountain in the north of Thailand. The first species, P. huamotensis Pornp., Chantar. & J.Parn., sp. nov., is one of the most distinct Phyllanthus species easily distinguished by its reddish branchlets and stem, conspicuous reddish venation, especially on the lower leaf surface, red sepals with long fimbriate margin and red capsule with papillose-puberulous surface. The second species, P. chantaranothaii Pornp., J.Parn. & Hodk., sp. nov., is similar to P. pulcher Wall. ex Müll.Arg., but it is distinguished by its puberulous upper leaf surface and pistillate flowers which have red, narrowly lanceolate sepals with a white, long fimbriate margin, puberulous outer side as well as puberulous pedicel.
["diversity"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Bioactivity Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Systematics and relationships of Tryssophyton (Melastomataceae), with a second species from the Pakaraima Mountains of Guyana
The systematics of Tryssophyton, herbs endemic to the Pakaraima Mountains of western Guyana, is reviewed and Tryssophyton quadrifolius K.Wurdack & Michelang., sp. nov. from the summit of Kamakusa Mountain is described as the second species in the genus. The new species is distinguished from its closest relative, Tryssophyton merumense, by striking vegetative differences, including number of leaves per stem and leaf architecture. A phylogenetic analysis of sequence data from three plastid loci and Melastomataceae-wide taxon sampling is presented. The two species of Tryssophyton are recovered as monophyletic and associated with mostly Old World tribe Sonerileae. Fruit, seed and leaf morphology are described for the first time, biogeography is discussed and both species are illustrated.
["Guyana"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Linum aksehirense (sect. Dasylinum, Linaceae), a new species from Central Anatolia (Turkey)
Linum aksehirense (Linaceae) is described as a new species known from the slopes of the Sultan Mountains in the Akşehir district of Konya in Central Anatolia (Turkey). It is most similar to L. pubescens Banks & Sol. and L. anisocalyx P.H.Davis, from which it is easily distinguished by its stem leaf shape, sepal shape and petal colour. Seed and pollen surface ornamentations were photographed under SEM microscopy to explore micromorphological characters distinguishing the new species from close relatives. In addition, photographs of living material, a distribution map, ecological details, and an identification key are provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Rediscovering two Isoetes species in the Brazilian Amazon and Cerrado after 167 years
Isoetes amazonica and I. gardneriana were the first two species of the genus to be collected from Brazil. Isoetes amazonica was gathered by Richard Spruce in the Amazon basin near Santarém in the state of Pará in 1850. Isoetes gardneriana was collected by George Gardner in the current Dianópolis in Tocantins State in 1843. Despite being known for a long time by botanists, these species have not been recollected since then, which raised questions about their taxonomic recognition, current distribution ranges and conservation status. Fieldwork efforts led to the rediscovery of I. amazonica and I. gardneriana after 167 years. These collections enrich our understanding of their habitats and morphologies. We provide here re-descriptions for these species. Based on IUCN criteria, Isoetes amazonica and I. gardneriana should be assigned as data deficient (DD) and endangered (EN), respectively. The rediscovery of these species raises hopes that other areas in Amazon and Cerrado biomes harbour I. amazonica and I. gardneriana, respectively. This study will serve as a basis towards the conservation of these species.
["Aquatic plants"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Zahora, a new monotypic genus from tribe Brassiceae (Brassicaceae) endemic to the Moroccan Sahara
Zahora ait-atta Lemmel & M.Koch, a new species from the Moroccan Sahara, is described and documented here and constitutes a monotypic new genus. The new taxon belongs to the tribe Brassiceae (Brassicaceae), and cytogenetic and phylogenetic analyses reveal that this diploid species has a remote status of Miocene origin in the northwestern Sahara Desert. We examined the morphological differences between morphologically related genera and provide photographs of the new species. The new genus may play a key role in future Brassica-Raphanus crop research since it is placed phylogenetically at the base of a generically highly diverse clade including Raphanus sativus, and it shows affinities to various Brassica species.
["Brassiceae"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Ecology and Soil Science"]

Silene sunhangii (Caryophyllaceae), a new species from China
Silene sunhangii, a new species of Caryophyllaceae known from only three populations in Hubei and Hunan provinces of central China, is described. Both morphological and molecular data were used to assess the taxonomic status and relationships of this species. Morphologically, S. sunhangii is most similar to S. platyphylla Franch. from which it differs most readily in having 3-veined elliptical leaves without pubescence, tasseled catacorolla, pale purple to red petals without a linear lobe or narrow tooth and lanceolate, bifid to one third. A phylogenetic analysis based on nuclear ITS region identified the new species as a well-supported, independent lineage. Our new species is nested within a grade that encompasses species representing a polyphyletic Silene sect. Physolychnis (Benth.) Bocquet. Both the genetic and morphological data support the recognition of Silene sunhangii as a distinct species, although there is inconsistency between these two datasets as to the relationships of the new species.
["Silene"]

Taxonomic studies on the Chara section Hartmania in Poland based on morphological and molecular data
Charophytes are aquatic green macroalgae, which inhabit fresh and brackish water ecosystems. In this study, four species belonging to the genus Chara were examined to determine their taxonomic status. Morphological characteristics of the plant bodies as well as plastid psaB barcoding genes were applied to test the relations among Chara species. Plants were initially classified using morphological features into four species: C. baltica, C. hispida, C. polyacantha and C. rudis, and twelve quantitative characters were used in a principal component analysis and discriminant analysis to determine groupings among the species and to determine the morphological features that best separated the groups. In the component analysis and discriminant analysis, results showed that only C. polyacantha and partly C. baltica formed separate groups. The other species C. hispida and C. rudis were only partially distinguishable. All species from one molecular group, and no differentiation in the psaB variability between them has been found.
["Chara"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Molecular phylogeny of Hiptage (Malpighiaceae) reveals a new species from Southwest China
Hiptage is an Asia-endemic genus of Malpighiaceae currently placed in the tetrapteroid clade, representing one of the seven inter-continent dispersions from New to Old World. A molecular phylogeny based on sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was recovered for the first time for the genus. Our results showed that the most recent common ancestor of Hiptage probably originated in the South Indo-China Peninsula and diversified in this region. Based on phylogenetic evidence and relevant morphological traits, we propose a new species; Hiptage incurvatum is characterised by mericarps with arcuate anterior lateral wings, two large glands on the dorsal sepals, and small glands on the remaining sepals. The new species is from Mt. Cangshan, Dali City (25°35'N, 100°02'E) in North Yunnan, Southwest China and is notable for its occurrence at high altitude, 1400 m (the highest distribution currently known for the genus). The implications of this unusual species for the dispersal and evolution of the genus are discussed.

Camellia debaoensis (Theaceae), a new species of yellow camellia from limestone karsts in southwestern China
Camellia debaoensis R.C.Hu & Y.Q.Liufu, sp. nov. is described and illustrated as a new species from southwestern Guangxi, China. It is morphologically similar to Camellia pubipetala Y. Wan & S. Z. Huang, C. mingii S.X. Yang and C. tuyenquangensis D.V. Luong, N.N.H. Le & N. Tran, but it differs from these species in having glabrous young branches, glabrous petiole, glabrous sepals, glabrous petals, glabrous stamens and glabrous ovary, 10 petals, cylindrical ovary and style 3-lobed to 1/6 style length.

A new species of Chrysosplenium (Saxifragaceae) from Northeastern China
This study describes and illustrates Chrysosplenium macrospermum Y.I.Kim & Y.D.Kim, a new plant species from Changbaishan Mt. (Baekdusan Mt.) in northeastern China. The species is most similar to Chrysosplenium valdepilosum in the series Pilosa but is readily distinguishable by short arching sterile branches, multiple (up to 3) flowering stems, and smooth surfaced seeds (without tubercles), which are ca. 30–50% larger than those of other members in the series.
["Saxifragales"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Conservation Studies"]

The first report of Nervilia lilacea Jum. & H. Perrier (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae) from Kenya and the Northern Hemisphere
Nervilia lilacea is recorded from Kenya as well as the Northern Hemisphere for the first time. A plate of ink drawing and a distribution map are provided based on the new collection.
["Flora of Kenya"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Two new species of Chlorospatha section Orientales (Araceae) from western Andes in Colombia
Two new species of Chlorospatha (section Orientales) from the western slope of the Cordillera Occidental in the departments of Valle del Cauca and Choco (Colombia) are described here. The new species represent the first records of section Orientales for Colombia, which was previously known only from the eastern Andes in Ecuador. The two new species are similar to C. longipoda, C. hannoniae and C. boosii. Chlorospatha minima sp. nov. is differentiated by its small overall size (less than 30 cm tall), blade strongly inequilateral with smooth adaxial surface, and spadix less than 2.2 cm long. Chlorospatha silverstonei sp. nov. is differentiated by its large overall size (30–60 cm tall), 1–3 leaves per plant, and quilted adaxial blade surface.

Ottelia fengshanensis, a new bisexual species of Ottelia (Hydrocharitaceae) from southwestern China
Ottelia fengshanensis, a new species (Hydrocharitaceae) from southwest China is here described and illustrated. Comparing its morphological features to putative close relatives O. guanyangensis, it has 3–4 flowers (vs. 2–5) each spathe, hexagonal-cylindric fruit, white styles (vs. yellow), green leaves (vs. dark green) and fruit tiny winged (vs. winged obviously). Molecular phylogenetic investigation of four DNA sequences (ITS, rbcL, trnK5’ intron and trnS-trnG) and the Poisson Tree Processes model for species delimitation (PTP) analysis, further resolves O. fengshanensis as a new species that is close to O. guanyangensis with distinct support.
["karst"]

Sedum lipingense (Crassulaceae) identifying a new stonecrop species in SE Guizhou, China, based on morphological and molecular evidence
We describe and illustrate Sedum lipingense (Crassulaceae), a new species of stonecrop found in the limestone areas of SE Guizhou, China. Based on the presence of adaxially gibbous carpels and follicles, this taxon belongs to sect. Sedum S.H. Fu. The new species superficially resembles S. subtile Miquel and S. bulbiferum Makino but differs from these two taxa in its development of a basal leaf rosette during florescence. The nrDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences also support the claim that this plant is a new species in the Sedum genus.
["flora of Guizhou"]

New taxa of Rhododendron tschonoskii alliance (Ericaceae) from East Asia
Three new taxa, Rhododendron sohayakiense Y.Watan. & T.Yukawa (Ericaceae), and its two varieties, var. kiusianum Y.Watan., T.Yukawa & T.Minamitani and var. koreanum Y.Watan. & T.Yukawa are described and illustrated from Japan and South Korea. They can be distinguished from each other and from the other members of the R. tschonoskii alliance, i.e. R. tschonoskii, R. tetramerum, R. trinerve and R. tsusiophyllum, through their combination of leaf size, leaf morphologies including lateral nerves on abaxial leaf surface, corolla morphologies including number of corolla lobes, style length and anther form. Phylogenetic inferences based on chloroplast DNA and genome-wide sequences revealed that each of the three new taxa is monophyletic and they further form a clade. Distributions of the three taxa are also clearly separated from each other and also from the other members of the R. tschonoskii alliance.
["Ericaceae"]

Defining phylogenetic relationship of Nepeta x tmolea and its parents via DNA barcoding
Nepeta viscida and N. nuda subsp. nuda and N. × tmolea were examined in this study. Mainly fresh leaf pieces, dried with silica grains, were used for DNA extraction procedures via DNA isolation kits. Standard PCR techniques were executed using three different primer sets (one nuclear DNA region (nrITS) and two chloroplast DNA regions (rpl32-trnL and trnA(Leu)-trnA(Phe)-trnL-F). DNA sequences were analysed and evaluated using different molecular approaches and software. Consequently, the inconstant molecular structure and hybrid nature of N. × tmolea specimens were shown and interpreted in this study. According to our result, N. × tmolea have some intermediate characters compared to its parents. nrITS data give more information phylogenetically, and also the most polymorphic loci are seen in nrITS data. Morphological and molecular data contribute to define separation of N. × tmolea. Consequently, the inconstant molecular structure and hybrid nature of N. × tmolea specimens were shown and interpreted in this study.
["hybrid"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Taxonomic studies on the genus Isotrema (Aristolochiaceae) from China: I. I. cangshanense, a new species from Yunnan
Isotrema cangshanense X.X.Zhu, H.L.Zheng & J.S.Ma, a new species from western Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated here. It is similar to I. utriforme, I. forrestianum, I. cucurbitoides and I. obliquum The major differences between them are outlined and discussed. A detailed description, along with line drawings, photographs, habitat and distribution, as well as a comparison to morphologically similar species, is also provided. Meanwhile, the new taxon is assessed as Vulnerable (VU D2), according to the IUCN Red List criteria.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Nephrotoxicity and Medicinal Plants", "Axial and Atropisomeric Chirality Synthesis"]

Synsepalum chimanimani (Sapotaceae), a new species from the Chimanimani Mountains of Mozambique and Zimbabwe, with notes on the botanical importance of this area
Synsepalum chimanimani S.Rokni & I.Darbysh., sp. nov., a small tree endemic to the forests of the southern foothills of the Chimanimani Mountains of Mozambique and Zimbabwe, is described and illustrated. The differences in morphology and distribution between the new species and the related S. kaessneri and S. muelleri, with which it has been confused, are clarified. The new species is globally Endangered due to ongoing habitat loss within its restricted range. The botanical importance and conservation of the Chimanimani foothills is also discussed, and they are highlighted as a candidate Important Plant Area.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Saxifraga damingshanensis (S. sect. Irregulares, Saxifragaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Saxifraga damingshanensis (Saxifragaceae), a new species from Damingshan Nature Reserve in Guangxi Province, is described and illustrated. A morphological comparison between the new species and its putative relatives, S. mengtzeana and S. luoxiaoensis, is presented. The new species is morphologically similar to S. mengtzeana, but it can be easily distinguished by its non-peltate leaf, both surfaces of mature leaf blade covered with white glandular trichome, petals 3-veined and margin entire. Phylogenetic analysis, based on two chloroplast DNA regions (matK and psbA-trnH), confirmed that the new species belongs to S. sect. Irregulares. The new species is currently only known from Damingshan, Guangxi and we assign it an IUCN Red List preliminary status as Data Deficient.

A taxonomic revision of the genus Selaginella (Selaginellaceae) from Nepal
The present paper deals with the taxonomy of Selaginella from Nepal based on the examination of herbarium collections housed in major herbaria of Europe and Asia (with additional collections from virtual herbaria). A total of 25 species are recognised here, while Selaginella trichophylla and S. laxistrobila are two new records for the flora of Nepal, India (Sikkim) and Bhutan; Selaginella monospora var. ciliolata is synonymised to S. trichophylla; detailed descriptions, distribution and ecology and IUCN conservation status assessments (based on literature) are presented. For most of the species, illustrations of the leaves and strobili are provided for identification of the morphologically similar taxa.
["Lycophytes"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

New combinations and synonyms in discoid caespitose Andean Senecio (Senecioneae, Compositae)
The names Werneria melanandra and W. pygmophylla are transferred to the genus Senecio. They belong to the group of the discoid caespitose Andean Senecio, specifically to the subgroup with blackish anthers and style branches and whitish corollas. The recognition of S. digitatus as a distinct species is also discussed. Within the framework of the mentioned group, the names S. casapaltensis and S. macrorrhizus are lectotypified, S. humillimus var. melanolepis is neotypified, an epitype is designated for the name W. melanandra, and nine new synonyms are proposed. An updated comprehensive dichotomous key including all discoid caespitose Senecio species from Bolivia and Peru is provided.
["Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Novelties in the genus Viridantha Espejo (Tillandsioideae, Bromeliaceae)
Based on morphological evidence, we propose to raise Tillandsia mauryana forma secundifolia to species level with the name Viridantha secundifolia (Ehlers) Hern.-Cárdenas, Espejo & López-Ferr. Viridantha secundifolia can be readily distinguished by the falciform rosettes, the broadly oblong to square, 1–1.2 × 0.8–1.1 cm leaf sheaths and by the 1.8–2 × 0.7–1.2 cm floral bracts. Additionally, we describe and illustrate Viridantha uniflora Hern.-Cárdenas, Espejo & López-Ferr., from the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. The new species is morphologically similar to Viridantha boqueronensis, but differs by the nearly square leaf sheaths, 1.3–1.5 × 0.4–0.5 cm spikes and by the presence of only one flower per spike. A key to the taxa, morphological descriptions, list of specimens examined, illustrations and a distribution map of the described taxa are included.
["Hidalgo"]

Sedum ichangensis, a new species of Crassulaceae from Hubei, China
Sedum ichangensis sp. nov., from Yichang, Hubei province, central China, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to S. elatinoides and S. rosthornianum in its leaf and carpel morphology and differs in its creeping stems and solitary flowers. The conservation status of S. ichangensis was assessed as Endangered according to the IUCN Red List criteria.
["Crassulaceae"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis"]

New morphological and DNA evidence supports the existence of Calligonum jeminaicum Z. M. Mao (Calligoneae, Polygonaceae) in China
Calligonum jeminaicum Z. M. Mao, a species regarded as endemic to China, was thought to be nonexistent owing to a lack of scientific records. The similarity of C. jeminaicum to C. mongolicum Turcz. warranted an investigation into the taxonomical relationship between these species. In this study, a naturally occurring population of C. jeminaicum was discovered and the taxonomical relationships of this species with C. mongolicum were resolved. Morphological traits, including fruit and flower characteristics, as well as nuclear (ETS, ITS) and chloroplast (psbA-trnH, ycf6-psbM, rpl32-trnL, rbcL, and trnL-F) DNA sequence data were studied to confirm the taxonomic status of C. jeminaicum. The nrDNA data (ITS1-2 and ETS) from C. jeminaicum reflected variability from the whole C. mongolicum complex, showing distinctive haplotypes in the Calligonum sect. Medusa Sosk. & Alexandr. The cpDNA data supplied similar evidence, showing unique branching in Bayesian and ML tree analyses. The specific status of C. jeminaicum is confirmed based on both morphological and molecular analyses. Here we present a revised description of C. jeminaicum along with its DNA barcode and discuss suggestions for the conservation of this species. Based on current evidence, this species was evaluated as Critically Endangered (CR) according to the IUCN criteria.
["Calligonum mongolicum complex"]
["Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Nigella sativa pharmacological applications", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

Rhamnella brachycarpa (Rhamnaceae), a new species from Hainan Island, China
Rhamnella brachycarpa Z. Qiang Lu & Y. Shuai Sun, a new evergreen woody species from Hainan Island, is described and illustrated. The specimens of this new species have previously been identified and placed under R. rubrinervis (H. Lév.) Rehder, with which it shares evergreen leaves, erect and climbing habits and axillary flowering branches with bracteole leaves. However, the specimens from three distinct Hainan populations significantly differ from those of R. rubrinervis from other regions with smaller length to width ratios of leaves, fruit and seeds, smaller sizes of fruit and seeds and mucronate seed apices. Principal Component Analysis of the closely related taxa, based on multiple morphological characters, further recognised two separated groups. One of them comprises R. tonkinensis and R. rubrinervis, the other merely includes all individuals from these distinct Hainan populations. Therefore, R. brachycarpa, based on these distinct Hainan populations, is here erected as a new species, distinctly different from its published relatives.
["Rhamnella brachycarpa"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

An updated synopsis of Tanaecium (Bignonieae, Bignoniaceae)
Tanaecium Sw. emend L.G. Lohmann (Bignonieae, Bignoniaceae) is a genus of Neotropical lianas that is morphologically variable, especially in floral features. The genus is distributed from Mexico and the Antilles to Argentina, and centered in Amazonia. Here, we present an updated overview for Tanaecium that recognizes 21 species within the genus. Species delimitation was based on a detailed analysis of protologues and herbarium specimens, including type collections of all taxa. We present a detailed description for the genus and a key for the identification of all species. For each of the 21 species recognized, we present information on the nomenclature, phenology, habitat, distribution, and taxonomic notes. Furthermore, Spathicalyx kuhlmannii J.C. Gomes is transferred into Tanaecium kuhlmannii (J.C. Gomes) Frazão & L.G. Lohmann. A lectotype is proposed for Tanaecium crucigerum Seem.
["Tanaecium"]

Swertia hongquanii, a new species of Gentianaceae from Mt. Wuling, southern China
Swertia hongquanii Jia X. Li, a new species of Gentianaceae, is described and illustrated from Mt. Wuling, southern China. It grows on the tops of steep limestone mountains surrounded by cliffs above an altitude of ca. 1400 m. This species resembles Swertia bimaculata, but differs from the latter by the stem leaf blades 2.0–4.5 × 1.0–2.5 cm, ovate to ovate-cordate, base cordate and subamplexicaul, the seeds irregularly polyhedral and the seed coats minutely thorny and reticulate. Based on morphological traits, i.e. the inflorescence structure and the number and structure of the nectaries, the new species may be a member of series Maculatae. A key to the species of series of section Maculatae Ophelia is provided.
["Swertia"]

Primulina serrulata (Gesneriaceae), a new species from southeastern Guizhou, China
Primulina serrulata R.B.Zhang & F. Wen, a new species from a limestone area in southeastern Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated here. The new species is morphologically related to P. fimbrisepala (Hand.-Mazz.) Y.Z.Wang. We examined the morphological differences between these congeners and provide illustrations and photographs of this new species in this paper.
["Flora of Guizhou"]

Oreocharis tetrapterus (Gesneriaceae), a new species from East Guangxi, China
A new species, Oreocharis tetrapterus F.Wen, B.Pan & T.V.Do (Gesneriaceae) from Gupo Mountain area, Hezhou city, Guangxi Zhuangzu Autonomous Region, China, is described and illustrated. The new species has a zygomorphic tetramerous corolla with two adaxial and two abaxial lobes and two fertile stamens in the posterior position, making this a unique combination of floral characteristics in the expanded Oreocharis.
["Didymocarpinae"]

Isoetes dubsii and Isoetes santacruzensis, two new species from lowland areas in South America
Isoetes dubsii sp. nov. and I. santacruzensis sp. nov., two new species from lowland areas in South America, are described, illustrated and compared to similar species. Isoetes dubsii can be distinguished from other species of the Brazilian Pantanal wetlands by a set of characters including leaves that are long, flexuous and trigonal in transverse section, tri-lobate stems, rudimentary velum, pustulate megaspores of 310‒390 µm diameter and laesurae of the megaspore at least four times wider than high. Isoetes santacruzensis has flexuous, filiform leaves, 0.4–0.8 mm wide at mid length and reaching up to 15 cm long, black or reddish-black sporangia, sclerified phyllopodia and sparsely verrucate megaspores of 320‒390 µm in diameter. We also include a key for species from the Brazilian Pantanal wetlands and Bolivia and spore images for all species that are discussed. Isoetes dubsii and I. santacruzensis are only known from their type localities and they may deserve special attention concerning their conservation status. However, based on our current knowledge on these species and according to IUCN Red List criteria, they are assessed here as data deficient (DD).
["Aquatic plants"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Codonoboea (Gesneriaceae) in Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia, including three new species
Of the 92 Codonoboea species that occur in Peninsular Malaysia, 20 are recorded from the state of Terengganu, of which 9 are endemic to Terengganu including three new species, C. norakhirrudiniana Kiew, C. rheophytica Kiew and C. sallehuddiniana C.L.Lim, that are here described and illustrated. A key and checklist to all the Terengganu species are provided. The majority of species grow in lowland rain forest, amongst which C. densifolia and C. rheophytica are rheophytic. Only four grow in montane forest. The flora of Terengganu is still incompletely known, especially in the northern part of the state and in mountainous areas and so, with botanical exploration, more new species can be expected in this speciose genus.

A new subspecies of Peucedanum officinale L. subsp. album (Apiaceae) from the eastern part of the Iberian Peninsula
We describe Peucedanum officinale L. subsp. album Martínez-Fort & Donat-Torres subsp. nov., in which we grouped the thermomediterranean populations scattered along the eastern part of the Iberian Peninsula. The characters that differentiate this new subspecies from other infraspecific taxa in Peucedanum officinale are its canaliculated leaflet, the inflorescences much branched and lack of dominant terminal umbels, the umbels are few rayed, sometimes sessile and lateral, the petals are white and the fruit pedicels short, the same or shorter in length than the fruit. We provide here a full description of the new subspecies based on herbarium specimens and field measurements, as well as providing dichotomous keys to the subspecies within P. officinale. In addition, we provide a comparison of the ITS sequences of nrDNA with the most closely related taxons.
["Umbelliferae"]
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

Spiradiclis tubiflora (Rubiaceae), a new cave-dwelling species from southern China
Spiradiclis tubiflora, a new Rubiaceae species, is described from a limestone area of southern China. It is similar to Spiradiclis glandulosa and S. umbelliformis, but differs from the latter two in its linear stipule, short peduncle and tubular-funnelform corolla with a distinctively enlarged tube. The colour photograph, illustrations, detailed descriptions and conservation status of the new species are provided.
["Rubiaceae"]

Taxonomic and nomenclatural notes on Pedicularis (Orobanchaceae): I. One new species from northwest Yunnan, China
Pedicularis multicaulis W.B.Yu, H.Wang & D.Z.Li (series Oliganthae Prain) is a new species described and illustrated herein. This new species is endemic to northwest Yunnan and only two populations were found in Weixi county. Phylogenetic analyses support P. multicaulis as a new species, sister to P. taihaiensis Bonati and P. macilenta Franch. Morphological comparisons between P. multicaulis and P. macilenta and P. taihaiensis also support P. multicaulis as a new species to science.
["Orobanchaceae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Four new species of Gesneriaceae from Yunnan, Southwest China
Four new species of Gesneriaceae from Yunnan, southwest China, are described and illustrated. They are Petrocosmea rhombifolia, Petrocosmea tsaii, Didymocarpus brevipedunculatus, and Henckelia xinpingensis. Diagnostic characters between the new species and their morphologically close relatives are provided. Their distribution, ecology, phenology, and conservation status are also described.

Two new species of Henckelia (Gesneriaceae) from Southeastern Yunnan, China
Two new species of Gesneriaceae, Henckelia nanxiheensis Lei Cai & Z.L.Dao, sp. nov. and H. multinervia Lei Cai & Z.L.Dao, sp. nov. from southeastern Yunnan, China, are described with color photos. The diagnostic characters of the two new species, together with photographs, detailed descriptions, distribution and habitat, as well as comparisons with morphologically similar species, are also provided.

Dendrocalamus menghanensis (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new woody bamboo from Yunnan, China
Dendrocalamus menghanensis P.Y.Wang & D.Z.Li, a new species of woody bamboos endemic to south Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to D. semiscandens and D. birmanicus but differs in having a reflexed culm sheath blade, 10 mm high culm sheath ligule, 1 mm high leaf sheath ligule, 4 florets and 1 glume.
["Dendrocalamus"]
["Bamboo properties and applications", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Molecular Biology Research"]

Yushania tongpeii (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new bamboo species from north-eastern Yunnan, China
Yushania tongpeii D.Z.Li, Y.X.Zhang & E.D.Liu, a new species of the temperate bamboo tribe Arundinarieae (Poaceae: Bambusoideae), is described and illustrated from north-eastern Yunnan, China. Yushania tongpeii is characterised by taller branching from nodes 1–2 m above the ground, usually three branches at the node, sparse purple spots and thin white powder on the internode, densely purple-spotted culm sheaths, glabrous margins of culm sheaths and tomentose leaf ligules. Based on the morphological features, this new species is assigned to section Yushania.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Two out of one: revising the diversity of the epiphytic fern genus Scleroglossum (Polypodiaceae, Grammitidoideae) in southern China
Our understanding of the flora of China has greatly improved during the last 100 years but effective management of the rich biodiversity and unique natural resources requires resolving the taxonomic limitations of existing treatments. Here, we focus on the epiphytic genus Scleroglossum with special emphasis on the occurrences in Hainan and Yunnan of mainland China. By combining fieldwork, herbarium studies, and DNA barcoding we test the hypothesis that this genus is represented by more than one species in China. Our integrative results show the Yunnan accessions are distinct from those in Hainan in both phenotypic and genotypic variation. The Yunnan accessions belong to S. pusillum, whereas the Hainan accessions represent a distinct species displaying the morphological characteristics of S. sulcatum. Genotypic evidence suggests the occurrence of cryptic diversity among accessions with the morphology of S. sulcatum. In summary, the study contributes to the crucial assessment of the plant diversity in Yunnan and illustrates the importance of integrating collection efforts and DNA barcoding approaches to enable effective assessment of the epiphytic diversity of Yunnan.
["Cryptic speciation"]

The taxonomic revision of Asian Aristolochia (Aristolochiaceae) V: two new species from Yunnan, China
Aristolochia pseudoutriformis X.X.Zhu & J.S.Ma, sp. nov. and A. yangii X.X.Zhu & J.S.Ma, sp. nov., two new species from Yunnan, China, are described and illustrated here. The former is morphologically similar to A. utriformis and A. forrestiana and the latter is similar to A. cucurbitoides and A. forrestiana. According to Ma’s (1989a) classification, both new species belong to Aristolochia subgenus Siphisia on the basis of the 3-lobed gynostemium and oblong anthers that are adnate in pairs, opposite the gynostemium lobes. Meanwhile, the two new species are assessed as Vulnerable (VU D2) according to IUCN Red List criteria.
["Nephrotoxicity and Medicinal Plants", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Marsdenia yarlungzangboensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), a new species from Xizang, China
Marsdenia yarlungzangboensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), a new species from Motuo County, southeastern Xizang of China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to M. medogensis, M. tenii and M. yuei, the major differences between the new species and the morphological relatives are outlined and discussed. A diagnostic key to the new species and its closely related species in China is provided.
["Marsdenia"]
["Phytochemistry and Bioactive Compounds", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Lysimachia fanii, a new species of Primulaceae from limestone area of Guangxi, China
Lysimachia fanii, a new species of Lysimachia (Subgen. Idiophyton, Primulaceae), is described and illustrated from Guangxi, China based on morphological and molecular data. Lysimachia fanii differs from L. verbascifolia, L. rupestris and L. alpestris mainly by the habit being nearly rosulate, leaves congested at the apex of the rhizome, leaf blades spatulate to narrowly oblanceolate and flowers solitary. Phylogenetic analyses supported L. verbascifolia as sister to L. fanii. This new species is endemic to limestone areas in Liucheng county of Guangxi, China.
["Lysimachia"]

Gentianella macrosperma, a new species of Gentianella (Gentianaceae) from Xinjiang, China
Gentianella macrosperma Ma ex H.F. Cao, J.D. Ya & Q.R. Zhang, a new species of Gentianaceae from Xinjiang, Northwest China is described and illustrated. This new species is unique in having equal length of corolla lobe and corolla tube, nectaries located at the throat of the corolla tube and large seeds up to 1.6 mm in diameter. In addition, an updated identification key to the Chinese species of Gentianella is provided.
["Gentianella"]

Disporum nanchuanense (Colchicaceae), a new species from Chongqing, China
Disporum nanchuanense (Colchicaceae), a new species from Jinfo Mountain National Nature Reserve, Nanchuan District, Chongqing, China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to D. longistylum and D. megalanthum, but differs from the former in its stem branched type, tepals colour and size, stamens and pistil size; and it differs from the latter in inflorescence position, tepals shape, stamens position, pistil position and size. Meanwhile, the new taxon is assessed as Vulnerable (VU D2), according to the IUCN Red List criteria. Furthermore, an identification key to all Chinese species of Disporum is provided.
["Jinfo Mountain"]

Ceropegia jinshaensis (Apocynaceae), a new species from northwestern Yunnan, China
Ceropegia jinshaensis D.T.Liu & Z.K.Wu (Asclepiadoideae, Apocynaceae), a new species from northwestern Yunnan along the upper Yangtze river of China, is described and illustrated. This species is similar to C. meleagris H. Huber, C. dorjei C. E. C. Fischer and C. aridicola W. W. Smith, but can be distinguished easily by its leaf shape and floral features, especially the corolla shape and size, the interior of corolla tube and coronal characters.
["Apocynaceae"]

A new species of Amentotaxus (Taxaceae) from China, Vietnam, and Laos
A new species Amentotaxus hekouensis L.M. Gao is described as new to science from Hekou, Yunnan of China, Lao Cai of Vietnam and Xiang Khouang of Laos. The new species is similar to A. argotaenia (Hance) Pilg. in linear or linear-lanceolate leaves, stomatal bands white and microsporophylls 6–8, each with 4–6 pollen sacs, but differs from the latter by its larger leaf size with 8–12.5 cm × 0.9–1.4 cm (vs. 2–11 cm × 0.5–1.1 cm in A. argotaenia), long acuminate leaf apex (vs. rounded to sharply triangular in A. argotaenia), stomatal bands with 25–30 rows (vs. 15–25 rows in A. argotaenia), stomatal bands equal to or slightly narrower than marginal bands (vs. narrower than marginal bands in A. argotaenia); pollen-cone racemes borne 1–2 (vs. 2–4 (10) in A. argotaenia), cones in 12–16 pairs (vs. ca. 12 pairs in A. argotaenia). Its distinctive nature has also been confirmed through DNA barcoding analysis of this genus. The new species is provisionally assessed as endangered (EN) due to its restricted distribution, small population size and the prevalence of habitat destruction within its range.
["Amentotaxus hekouensis"]

Primula dongchuanensis (Primulaceae), a new species from northern Yunnan, China
Primula dongchuanensis Z.K.Wu & Yuan Huang, a new species of Primulaceae from Dongchuan of northern Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. Both morphological and molecular evidence support P. dongchuanensis as a member of the sect. Proliferae. It is similar to P. aurantiaca W.W.Smith & Forrest, but is distinguished by having unique raceme inflorescences. Its distribution, phenology and conservation status are also provided.
["Primulaceae"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

Synopsis of the tribe Stipeae (Poaceae) in Nepal
In Nepal the Stipeae consists of six genera: Achnatherum, Orthoraphium, Piptatherum, Ptilagrostis, Stipa, Trikeraia, and 15 species. Two new combinations, Ptilagrostis duthiei (Hook. f.) M.Nobis & P.D.Gudkova and Achnatherum staintonii (Bor) M.Nobis & P.D.Gudkova, are proposed, and new country records for Stipa klimesii, Ptilagrostis dichotoma, Ptilagrostis concinna and Achnatherum jacquemontii are reported. The records of Stipa roborowskyi, S. przewalskyi, S. capillata, S. consanguinea, S. mongholica, and S. sibirica, previously thought to occur in Nepal were based on misidentifications, and these have been excluded from the list of Nepalese Stipeae. We present keys for the identification of genera and species, and a checklist including information on nomenclatural types, regional and national distribution, and habitat. A lectotype is designated for Stipa brandisii Mez.

Isotrema sanyaense, a new species of Aristolochiaceae from Hainan, China
Isotrema sanyaense R.T.Li, X.X.Zhu & Z.W.Wang, sp. nov., a new species from Hainan island, China, is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically most similar to I. ledongense (Han Xu, Y.D.Li & H.J.Yang) X.X.Zhu, S.Liao & J.S.Ma and I. jianfenglingense (Han Xu, Y.D.Li & H.Q.Chen) X.X.Zhu, S.Liao & J.S.Ma in the shape of leaf, flower, and the yellow to brown villous indumentum of the pedicel, ovary and calyx. However, I. sanyaense can be easily distinguished from the latter two species by its 1–5-flowered cymes, in hanging clusters of 1 to numerous branches, upper calyx tube obviously longer than basal calyx tube, calyx limb discoid, yellow inside, with purple-red stripes and spots, about 13–18 mm in diameter, glabrous, and a throat dark red without spots, 4–6 mm wide.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Nephrotoxicity and Medicinal Plants", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A new coastal species of Pseuderanthemum (Acanthaceae) from Loyalty Islands (New Caledonia) and Vanuatu with notes on P. carruthersii
When dealing with the taxonomy of Pacific coastal species within the region of New Caledonia and Vanuatu, one should examine all names published in Australasia and other Pacific islands. When the putative new species is also closely related to a highly praised ornamental species with many cultigens and with many old horticultural names, the task becomes more arduous. This is the case for the new species we describe as Pseuderanthemum melanesicum Gâteblé, Ramon & Butaud, which is closely related to the now pantropical cultivated species P. carruthersii (Seem.) Guillaumin s.l. Compared to P. carruthersii, P. melanesicum has carnose and shiny leaves, pedicels and sepals covered with glandular hairs, a short and enlarged corolla tube and can produce fertile capsules. The new species is a coastal taxon occurring naturally in the Melanesian archipelagos of New Caledonia and Vanuatu. This species seems uncommon in the Loyalty Islands but more common in the archipelago of Vanuatu and we propose it as Critically Endangered in New Caledonia, Vulnerable in Vanuatu and Least Concern when the IUCN evaluation is done globally.
["Acanthaceae"]

Clematis guniuensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from Eastern China
Clematis guniuensis sp. nov., a new narrowly endemic species of Clematis, is described and illustrated from the Huangshan Mountains of Eastern China. A description of C. guniuensis is presented along with illustrations, photographs and diagnostic differences between the new species and its putative close allies.
["Anhui"]

A new species of Rhaptopetalum (Lecythidaceae) from south-western Gabon
Rhaptopetalum rabiense Kenfack & Nguema, sp. nov. from the Rabi forest in south-western Gabon is described, illustrated and assigned a provisional conservation status of “Critically Endangered”. An identification key to the five Gabonese species of Rhaptopetalum is also provided.
["ForestGEO"]

The rise of Cynometra (Leguminosae) and the fall of Maniltoa: a generic re-circumscription and the addition of 4 new species
Cynometra L. is a genus of ca. 85 species of shrubs to large trees. It is amongst the largest genera in the legume subfamily Detarioideae and one of the few with a pantropical distribution. Perhaps due to this wide distribution and high diversity, systematists and taxonomists have struggled with the classification of Cynometra and its close ally, the genus Maniltoa Scheff. Recent phylogenetic studies have shown that many of the African species are more closely related to other genera and that the genus Maniltoa is nested within a clade of Indo-Pacific Cynometra. Here, I present an emended circumscription of Cynometra that excludes the African species defined by jointed pedicels and dehiscent fruits and includes the species formerly recognised in Maniltoa. New combinations in Cynometra are also provided for those species that require them. Additionally, four new species of Neotropical Cynometra are described and illustrated: Cynometra cerebriformis sp. nov. from the lower Rio Trombetas in Brazil; Cynometra dwyerii sp. nov. from the Darien gap region of Panama; C. tumbesiana sp. nov. from the dry tropical forests of Ecuador and Peru; and C. steyermarkii sp. nov. from the foothills of the western Cordillera de la Costa in Venezuela.
["Cynometra L"]

Five new species of the genus Primulina (Gesneriaceae) from Limestone Areas of Guangxi Zhuangzu Autonomous Region, China
Five new species of Primulina (Gesneriaceae) are described and illustrated here, namely P. purpureokylin F. Wen, Yi Huang & W. Chuen Chou, P. persica F. Wen, Yi Huang & W. Chuen Chou, P. cerina F. Wen, Yi Huang & W. Chuen Chou, P. niveolanosa F. Wen, S. Li & W. Chuen Chou and P. leiyyi F. Wen, Z.B. Xin & W. Chuen Chou. The characteristic traits of these species, together with photographs, detailed descriptions, notes on etymology, distribution, and habitat, as well as comparisons with morphologically similar species, are provided.

Three new species of Lachemilla (Rosaceae) from South America
Three new species of Lachemilla (Rosaceae), two from Colombia and one from Peru, are described and illustrated. Lachemilla rothmaleriana is characterized by its stout stems, sericeous-villous indumentum, and wide ascending sheaths with trilobate lateral lobes. Lachemilla argentea presents a unique combination of tripartite basal leaves with an adaxial silvery villous indumentum, and decumbent branches with verticillate lobed sheaths. Finally, Lachemilla cyanea has distinctly basal reniform leaves with a blue-green color and hirsute pubescence. Phylogenetic analyses of the nuclear ribosomal cistron and multiple regions of the plastid genome revealed the allopolyploid origin of the three new taxa.
["Allopolyploidy"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

A key to the North American genera of Stipeae (Poaceae, Pooideae) with descriptions and taxonomic names for species of Eriocoma, Neotrinia, Oloptum, and five new genera: Barkworthia, ×Eriosella, Pseudoeriocoma, Ptilagrostiella, and Thorneochloa
Based on earlier molecular DNA studies we recognize 14 native Stipeae genera and one intergeneric hybrid in North America. We provide descriptions, new combinations, and 10 illustrations for species of Barkworthia gen. nov., Eriocoma, Neotrinia, Oloptum, Pseudoeriocoma gen. nov., Ptilagrostiella gen. nov., Thorneochloa gen. nov., and ×Eriosella nothogen. nov. The following 40 new combinations are made: Barkworthia stillmanii, Eriocoma alta, E. arida, E. arnowiae, E. bloomeri, E. bracteata, E. contracta, E. coronata, E. curvifolia, E. hendersonii, E. latiglumis, E. lemmonii, E. lemmonii ssp. pubescens, E. lettermanii, E. lobata, E. nelsonii, E. nelsonii ssp. dorei, E. nevadensis, E. occidentalis, E. occidentalis ssp. californica, E. occidentalis ssp. pubescens, E. parishii, E. parishii ssp. depaupertata, E. perplexa, E. pinetorum, E. richardsonii, E. robusta, E. scribneri, E. swallenii, E. thurberiana, E. wallowaensis, ×Eriosella caduca, Pseudoeriocoma acuta, P. constricta, P. editorum, P. eminens, P. hirticulmis, P. multinodis, Ptilagrostiella kingii, and Thorneochloa diegoensis. A key to the native and introduced genera of North American Stipeae, and an overview of the tribe in North America and worldwide are given. Lectotypes are designated for Eriocoma cuspidata Nutt., Fendleria rhynchelytroides Steud., Stipa bloomeri Bol., Stipa coronata Thurb., Stipa membranacea Pursh, Stipa mormonum Mez, Stipa richardsonii Link, and Stipa williamsii Scribn. Achnatherum s.s. and Piptatherum s.s. are now restricted to Eurasia and the Mediterranean/Asia, respectively.
["Barkworthia"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant and fungal interactions", "Tree Root and Stability Studies"]

Persicaria jucunda var. rotunda (Polygonaceae, Persicarieae), a distinct distylous taxa raised to specific rank
Persicaria jucunda (Meisn.) Migo var. rotunda (Z.Z.Zhou & Q.Y.Sun) Bo Li was originally published in the genus Polygonum L. and treated as a variety of P. rotundum Meisn. [≡Persicaria jucunda (Meisn.) Migo]. After carefully comparing the macro- and micro-morphological characteristics of the achenes, leaf epidermis and tepals and the habitat between the variety and its typical variety, we confirmed that P. jucunda var. rotunda is clearly different from P. jucunda and should not be treated as a variety, but be raised to a specific rank as P. rotunda (Z.Z.Zhou & Q.Y.Sun) Bo Li. The species is distylous and could be easily distinguished from all other Persicaria taxa by a combination of morphological characters, such as completely decumbent leafless basal branches, almost sessile leaves, linear-lanceolate with rounded leaf bases, spicate, short and dense inflorescences, slender pedicels longer than bracts and dimorphic flowers and achenes. P. rotunda is endemic to several large wetlands of eastern China and usually occurs as one of the dominant species in some plant communities.
["Distyly"]

Twelve new and exciting Annonaceae from the Neotropics
As a result of concerted efforts of the community of Annonaceae taxonomists, increasingly detailed knowledge of the diversity of the Neotropical genera has been documented. With the exception of just two large genera, Annona and Xylopia, all Neotropical Annonaceae have been revised within the last 25 years. Subsequent to these publications, many new specimens have been collected and sent to us in Leiden for identification. These included a number that, despite the advanced state of taxonomic knowledge, proved to represent rarely collected, undescribed species. Here we describe 12 new species of Annona, Guatteria, Klarobelia, Tetrameranthus, and Xylopia. These species serve to illustrate the still underestimated diversity of the Neotropical flora, even in well studied plant groups like Annonaceae.
["Annonaceae"]

Return Verdesmum menglaense to the genus Hylodesmum (Fabaceae) based on morphological and molecular evidence
Verdesmum menglaense (C. Chen & X. J. Cui) H. Ohashi & K. Ohashi is a rare species in the tribe Desmodieae (Fabaceae) from Southwest China. The morphological observation shows that the species has minute capitate stigma and ebracteolate calyces, which are entirely different from the funnel-shaped stigma and bracteolate calyces of the genus Verdesmum H. Ohashi & K. Ohashi, but are consistent with those of the genus Hylodesmum H. Ohashi & R. R. Mill. The generic placement of V. menglaense within Hylodesmum was further supported by molecular evidence. Therefore, this species should be returned to Hylodesmum as H. menglaense (C. Chen & X. J. Cui) H. Ohashi & R. R. Mill. A full description including floral characters, a colour plate and a distribution map are first provided here for this species. After excluding the solo representative in China, Verdesmum should be removed from the record in Flora of China.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

A new species of dragon’s blood Croton (Euphorbiaceae) from Serra dos Órgãos (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
Croton rizzinii Farias & Riina, sp. nov. is a new species from Serra dos Órgãos National Park in the Atlantic Rain Forest domain (Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil). It is known from the municipalities of Guapimirim, Teresópolis and Petrópolis, where it grows in montane ombrophilous dense forest, between 500 and 1500 m elevation. This arborescent species belongs to Croton section Cyclostigma Griseb., a Neotropical lineage distributed in forest habitats from Mexico to northern Argentina. It is mainly characterised by its laciniate-glandular stipules, bracts with two inconspicuous glands (colleters) at the base and campanulate pistillate flowers with sepals covering the ovary. We describe and illustrate the new species, and compare it with close relatives occurring in the Atlantic Rain Forest. We also provide a distribution map, habitat information and suggestions for the assessment of its conservation status.
["Atlantic Rain Forest"]

Impatiens jenjittikuliae (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Thailand
Impatiens jenjittikuliae Ruchis. & Suksathan, a new species from a limestone area in Thasongyang District, Tak Province, Northern Thailand, is described and illustrated. This endemic new species is distinguished from the most similar, I. lacei Hook.f. through having pilose lateral sepals vs glabrous, and by the absence of long hairs along the lamina margin. Its pollen and seed morphology, stem anatomy, and pollination ecology are also observed. Furthermore, its conservation status as Critically Endangered is also assessed.
["Uniflorae"]

Insights on the systematics and morphology of Humiriaceae (Malpighiales): androecial and extrafloral nectary variation, two new combinations, and a new Sacoglottis from Guyana
Humiriaceae have had little recent comparative morphological study except for their distinctive fruits. We surveyed the diversity of stamen structures in the family with consideration of dehiscence patterns and the evolutionary transitions between tetra- and disporangiate anthers. Novel interpretations of floral morphology support new combinations (Duckesia liesneri K.Wurdack & C.E.Zartman, comb. nov. and Vantanea spiritu-sancti K.Wurdack & C.E.Zartman, comb. nov.) for two species formerly in Humiriastrum. We investigated all eleven species of Sacoglottis for diagnostic features that may contribute to better species delimitations, and describe Sacoglottis perryi K.Wurdack & C.E.Zartman, sp. nov. as an endemic of the Pakaraima Mountains in western Guyana. Finally, our survey across Humiriaceae for extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) revealed their presence on leaves of all extant species as adaxial basilaminar and/or abaxial embedded glands, in addition to the frequent occurrence of marginal glandular setae. The significance of inter-generic variation in gland position and anther morphology within the family are discussed.
["anthers"]

Dysosma villosa (Berberidaceae), a new species from Guizhou, Southwestern China
A new species, Dysosma villosa Z.W.Wang & H.C.Xi, is described and illustrated based on collections from the Yueliang Mountains in Congjiang County of Guizhou, Southwestern China. It is morphologically similar to D. difformis (Hemsl. & E.H.Wilson) T.H.Wang ex T.S.Ying, but can be easily distinguished from D. difformis by its inflorescences bearing a greater number of flowers (5–13 vs. 2–5), white-villous stems, petioles, and abaxial leaf blade, and stigma dark purple-red. In addition, we also compare this new species to the three species of Podophyllum (i.e., P. glaucescens J.M.H.Shaw, P. hemsleyi J.M.H.Shaw & Stearn, and P. trilobulum J.M.H.Shaw) which are insufficiently known and listed as putative members of Dysosma in Flora of China. Dysosma villosa can also be easily distinguished from P. glaucescens (7-flowered; to 40 cm tall) and P. hemsleyi (4-flowered; to 40 cm tall) by its inflorescences bearing a greater number of flowers, relatively smaller stature (9–23 cm tall), stems, petioles and abaxial leaf blade densely white-villose. Although the stems and petioles of P. trilobulum also possess fine short hairs, it can be easily distinguished from D. villosa by its trilobulate leaves, inflorescence with fewer flowers (2–5), and the position of inflorescence (inserted at or above midpoint on petiole of upper leaf).

Solanum plastisexum, an enigmatic new bush tomato from the Australian Monsoon Tropics exhibiting breeding system fluidity
A bush tomato that has evaded classification by solanologists for decades has been identified and is described as a new species belonging to the Australian “Solanum dioicum group” of the Ord Victoria Plain biogeographic region in the monsoon tropics of the Northern Territory. Although now recognised to be andromonoecious, S. plastisexum Martine & McDonnell, sp. nov. exhibits multiple reproductive phenotypes, with solitary perfect flowers, a few staminate flowers or with cymes composed of a basal hermaphrodite and an extended rachis of several to many staminate flowers. When in fruit, the distal rachis may abcise and drop. A member of Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum, Solanum plastisexum is allied to the S. eburneum Symon species group. Morphometric analyses presented here reveal that S. plastisexum differs statistically from all of its closest relatives including S. eburneum, S. diversiflorum F. Meull., S. jobsonii Martine, J.Cantley & L.M.Lacey, S. succosum A.R.Bean & Albr. and S. watneyi Martine & Frawley in both reproductive and vegetative characters. We present evidence supporting the recognition of S. plastisexum as a distinctive entity, a description of the species, representative photographs, a map showing the distribution of members of the S. eburneum species group and a key to the andromonoecious Solanum species of the Northern Territory of Australia. This new species is apparently labile in its reproductive expression, lending to its epithet, and is a model for the sort of sexual fluidity that is present throughout the plant kingdom.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Pasture and Agricultural Systems"]

Zeylanidium manasiae, a new species of Podostemaceae based on molecular and morphological data from Kerala, India
We present the description of Zeylanidium manasiae (Podostemaceae), a new species from Kerala, India, which is proposed based on molecular, macro- and micromorphological data. This species is characterised by its ribbon-like dichotomous thallus, floriferous shoots produced along the margins and dichotomy of the thallus, inflorescence with two bracts, unequal stigmatic lobes, ellipsoid fruits and large seeds.
["Internal transcribed spacer"]

Oreocharis odontopetala, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guizhou, China
A new species, Oreocharis odontopetala Q.Fu & Y.Q.Wang from Guizhou Province in southwest China, is described and illustrated, based on morphological comparison with existing species. It is morphologically most similar to O. elegantissima, but can be easily distinguished by its adaxially bullate leaf blade, abaxially conspicuous reticulate veinlets, brown-purple peduncles, triangular adaxial corolla lobes and abaxial corolla lobe margins bearing 4–10 long teeth, glabrous style and shorter stamens with confluent thecae at the apex, as well as leaf epidermal characters.
["Briggsia"]

Justicia thailandica, a new species of Acanthaceae from Thailand
A new species of Justicia (Acanthaceae), J. thailandica, is described and illustrated from Thailand. The new species belongs to Justicia sect. Harnieria and is similar to J. quadrifaria and J. championii, but differs on account of the obviously densely white indumentum in the inflorescence bracts and calyx, ovate leaf blades with margin usually entire, spathulate inflorescence bracts and length ratio of calyx to mature capsule. It is assessed to be “Near threatened” (NE) according to IUCN Red List Category and Criteria. Pollen and seed morphology characters are also reported. Species of Justicia sect. Harnieria in Thailand are discussed and a key to the three recognized species is presented.
["Harnieria"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

A new species of Microlicia (Melastomataceae): first record of the genus for Colombia
Microlicia (Melastomataceae) is a Neotropical genus nearly restricted to southeastern Brazil, and the Guiana Shield in Venezuela, with a few species in some places in the Andes of Bolivia and Peru. A new species of Microlicia endemic to the mountains of eastern Andes of Colombia is described and illustrated. Its affinities with other morphologically similar species from Venezuela are also documented. This novelty is the first record of the genus for Colombia and the northern Andes. It is argued that this disjunct distribution of the genus is attributable to the phenomenon of long-distance seed dispersal by wind.
["Northeastern Andes"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Páramo Calamagrostis s.l. (Poaceae): An updated list and key to the species known or likely to occur in páramos of NW South America and southern Central America including two new species, one new variety and five new records for Colombia
Calamagrostis (syn. Deyeuxia), as traditionally circumscribed, is one of the most speciose genera from páramo grasslands of northwest South America and southern Central America and often dominates these high-elevation habitats. However, it remains difficult for researchers to accurately identify the species due to a lack of floristic treatments for most of the countries containing páramo, with the distribution of many species still very poorly known. In an effort to ameliorate this, we present an updated list and identification keys in English and Spanish (as electronic appendix) to the species of Calamagrostis s.l. known or likely to occur in the páramos of Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Costa Rica and Panama. Fifty-four species are accepted, constituting 47 species currently circumscribed in Calamagrostis and seven species recently transferred to Deschampsia. Included within this are two new species, Calamagrostis crispifolius and Deschampsia santamartensis, which are described and illustrated. Both new species are found in páramos of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (departamento Magdalena), on the northernmost tip of Colombia, with C. crispifolius also found in the Serrania de Perija on the border with Venezuela. Calamagrostis crispifolius differs from all other species of Calamagrostis s.l. by the presence of strongly curled, readily deciduous leaf blades, amongst numerous other characteristics including open inflorescences with generally patent branches, small spikelets, (3.5–)4–5.5 mm long, with sessile florets and a rachilla prolongation reaching from 2/3 to almost the apex of the lemma, with short hairs (< 1 mm long). Deschampsia santamartensis is similar to Deschampsia hackelii (=Calamagrostis hackelii) from austral South America but differs by its broad, rigid and erect, strongly conduplicate blades, 1.5–2.5 mm wide when folded, ligules of innovations 0.5–1 mm long, truncate or obtuse, ligules of upper flowering culms 3–4 mm long, broadly shouldered with an attenuate central point, ellipsoid spike-like panicle, 3–5.5 long × 1.5–2.5 cm wide, lemma surfaces moderately to lightly scabrous between the veins, lemma apex acute to muticous, entire, rachilla extension often absent and inside of the floret often with hyaline shiny sinuous trichomes to 1 mm long, emerging from the base of the ovary. We also present a broader circumscription of the common species Deschampsia podophora (=Calamagrostis podophora), with the new variety D. podophora var. mutica described and illustrated. Deschampsia podophora var. mutica principally differs from var. podophora by florets lacking awns and larger habit i.e. multiple taller culms with longer and wider leaf blades forming tussocks, with inflorescences often held within sheaths. Nomenclatural changes are presented, with Deyeuxia macrostachya newly synonymised under C. macrophylla and C. pittieri, C. pubescens and Deyeuxia pubescens newly synonimised under C. planifolia. Lectotypes are designated for Agrostis antoniana, Calamagrostis pisinna, Deyeuxia macrostachya and Deyeuxia sodiroana. We also document and give notes on five new records of Calamagrostis for Colombia: C. carchiensis, C. guamanensis, C. heterophylla, C. pisinna and C. rigida.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Hemiboea albiflora, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guizhou, China
Hemiboea albiflora X.G.Xiang, Z.Y.Guo & Z.W.Wu, sp. nov., a new species of Gesneriaceae from Guizhou, China, is described and illustrated. This species was previously listed informally as a variety of H. gamosepala, but it differs significantly from H. gamosepala by its 5-parted calyx from the base, longer peduncle, white corolla and longer pistil. Based on recent extensive observations, this new species is similar to H. cavaleriei var. paucinervis and H. subcapitata but differs from them by its longer petiole, larger involucre, white corolla and longer staminal filaments. The conservation status of this species is considered to be “Vulnerable” (VU) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Hemiboea"]

Typification of names in Kaempferia (Zingiberaceae) in the flora of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam
Neotypes are designated for five names in Kaempferia (Zingiberaceae) from Lao PDR, namely K. attapeuensis Picheans. & Koonterm, K. champasakensis Picheans. & Koonterm, K. gigantiphylla Picheans. & Koonterm, K. sawanensis Picheans. & Koonterm and K. xiengkhouangensis Picheans. & Phokham.
["Kaempferia"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Additional contributions to taxonomy, nomenclature and biogeography of the Turkish Crataegus (Rosaceae) taxa
Crataegus azarolus L. has a wide distribution pattern from the western Mediterranean coasts to the eastern parts of Iran with several varieties adapted to local climatic conditions. Crataegus azarolus var. senobaaensis var. nov. is described as a new variety from southeast Turkey with characteristic deep leaf sinuses, mostly 3–4 pairs of lobes and leaves ovate-oblong in outline. Two varieties of the species are accepted under the name of Crataegus azarolus and the correct names are published here. Crataegus monogyna Jacq. var. odemisii var. nov. is described from İzmir, in the western part of Turkey. This new variety is distinguished by its orange fruit colour. An outstanding disjunct distribution pattern has been discovered for the recently described species, Crataegus yaltirikii Dönmez. Updated descriptions and infraspecific identification keys for Crataegus azarolus and Crataegus monogyna are given and pictures and distribution data for the new taxa are also supplied.
["Crataegus"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

A checklist of rheophytes of Cameroon
Rivers in Cameroon were surveyed to collect and document rheophytic plants. Rheophytes are the dominant aquatic macrophytes in tropical river systems, where they are adapted to extreme environments of rushing water (e.g., river rapids, waterfalls and flash floods). Rheophytic plants are useful indicators of river health. However, their habitats are threatened by human activities such as agriculture, plantation development, alluvial mining and dam construction, particularly in tropical countries. In this survey we documented 66 rheophytic species in 29 genera and 16 families. Two ferns, 8 monocotyledons and 56 dicotyledons were listed. Apart from the Podostemaceae family in which all species are rheophytic, the other 15 families have few species which are rheophytic. Five of these families have up to four species and the remaining 10 have only one member as a rheophytic species. The conservation status of each species is assessed and discussed. This work urges botanists, conservationists, and policy makers to do more to protect the habitats of rheophytes and put in place strategies and action plans for the conservation of this important biological group.
["Cameroon"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geological formations and processes"]

Asclepias speciosa (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae): a rare or unrecognized alien species in Europe?
Studies on populations of Asclepias syriaca L. in Lithuania revealed the occurrence of a new alien plant species, the North American native Asclepias speciosa Torr. (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), in southern parts of Lithuania – the first report of the latter species in Europe. Interestingly, a thorough analysis of herbarium specimens revealed that A. speciosa had first been collected in Lithuania in 1962, but the specimen was misidentified at the time as A. syriaca. The newly discovered population of A. speciosa occupies mesic grasslands, tall-herb fringe communities and arable field habitats. Sexual reproduction of this species was not recorded; it spreads locally by means of vegetative reproduction. We present here an exhaustive analysis of morphological characteristics and differences between A. speciosa and A. syriaca and other species of the genus, as well as a key for identification of alien Asclepias species in Europe. We predict that the effect of A. speciosa on native habitats and communities, and its economic impact, are comparable to those of the highly invasive A. syriaca. Although A. speciosa currently occurs very rarely as an alien species in Europe, its existence in other regions of Europe is highly probable.
["alien species"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A new species of perennial Bromus (Bromeae, Poaceae) from the Iberian Peninsula
During a survey of the genus Bromus for the ongoing Flora Iberica, B. picoeuropeanus sp. nov., a new orophilous species of perennial Bromus from Picos de Europa National Park, was found, and it is described and illustrated here. This new species belongs to the Bromus erectus complex and differs from the other perennial species of this group occurring in the Iberian Peninsula in its well-developed rhizome, the small innovation leaves and all peduncles and branches shorter than the spikelets. B. picoeuropeanus grows on calcareous stony soils associated with dry places. We provide a description and illustrations of the new species and an identification key for the most related European perennial species belonging to the complex.
["Bromea"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

An annotated checklist of vascular plants of Cherangani hills, Western Kenya
Cherangani hills, located in Western Kenya, comprises of 12 forest blocks, maintaining great plant diversity. However, little attention to plant diversity studies has been paid to it in the past years. Here, we present a checklist of the vascular plants of this region obtained through intensive field investigations and matching of herbarium specimens. In total, 1296 species, including 17 endemic species are documented, belonging to 130 families and 608 genera. This flora represents 18.50%, 43.83% and 54.17% of the Kenyan species, genera and families, respectively. The habit, habitat and voucher specimens, as well as brief notes on the distribution of each taxon recorded are presented in this checklist. It is the first exhaustive inventory of the terrestrial vascular plants in Cherangani hills which is a significant regional centre for plant diversity.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Allium albanicum (Amaryllidaceae), a new species from Balkans and its relationships with A. meteoricum Heldr. & Hausskn. ex Halácsy
A new species, Allium albanicum, is described and illustrated from Albania (Balkan Peninsula). It grows on serpentines or limestone in open rocky stands with a scattered distribution, mainly in mountain locations. Previously, the populations of this geophyte were attributed to A. meteoricum Heldr. & Hausskn. ex Halácsy, described from a few localities of North and Central Greece. These two species indeed show close relationships, chiefly regarding some features of the spathe valves, inflorescence and floral parts. They also share the same diploid chromosome number 2n =16 and similar karyotype, while seed testa micro-sculptures and leaf anatomy reveal remarkable differences. There are also several morphological features that allow them to be differentiated at specific level. The inclusion of both species into a newly described section Pseudoscorodon of the subgen. Allium is proposed. An analytic key to the species, included in the new section, is also provided.
["Allium"]
["Garlic and Onion Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Flowering Plant Growth and Cultivation"]

Two new records of the fern genus Coniogramme (Pteridaceae) from Vietnam
Two new records of the fern genus Coniogramme Fée from Vietnam, C. japonica and C. procera, are presented. In addition, a key to recognising the species of Coniogramme in Vietnam is given in this paper.
["Cryptogrammoideae"]

Sorbus lushanensis, a new species of Rosaceae from China
Sorbus lushanensis Xin Chen & Jing Qiu, sp. n. (Rosaceae), a new simple-leaved species belonging to Sorbus subg. Aria sect. Alnifoliae, is described from Anhui and Jiangxi provinces in China. Illustrations, photographs of wild plants and a distribution map are presented. The new species is morphologically similar to S. folgneri, but can be distinguished easily by its abaxially greenish-grey tomentose leaves, scale-like stipules and glabrous styles.
["Sorbus"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

The genus Indigofera (Leguminosae) in New Caledonia: two new species and a key for the species
Indigofera monieriana M.Pignal & L.P.Queiroz, sp. nov. and Indigofera dumbeana M.Pignal & L.P.Queiroz, sp. nov., two new species from New Caledonia, are described and illustrated. Both new species have been collected for a long time, but most herbarium specimens were named as the Australian species Indigofera australis, even though they clearly stand apart from this species and the other New Caledonian species of the genus. Indigofera monieriana can be diagnosed by the tall virgate shrubby habit, leaves with an articulate rachis and 7–11 widely obovate to orbiculate leaflets with greyish undersurface and almost invisible venation. Indigofera dumbeana can be recognized by the arborescent habit, leaves with 15–19 elliptical leaflets, small, c. 6 mm long flowers, and ellipsoid seeds. Preliminary IUCN assessments are provided for both species. A key is provided for all species of Indigofera recorded from New Caledonia.
["Indigofereae"]

Nothodissotis (Melastomataceae), a new genus from Atlantic Central Africa, including the new species N. alenensis from Equatorial Guinea
Based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence, a new genus of Melastomataceae (Melastomateae), Nothodissotis Veranso-Libalah & G.Kadereit, gen. nov., is described from Atlantic Central Africa. Nothodissotis is distinguished from other African Melastomateae genera by its calyx-lobes that are notched at apex and asymmetrical (vs. entire and symmetrical). Nothodissotis includes two species: the type species N. barteri (Hook.f.) Veranso-Libalah & G.Kadereit, comb. nov. (syn. Dissotis barteri Hook.f.), and the new species N. alenensis Veranso-Libalah & O. Lachenaud, sp. nov., described and illustrated here. Both species are restricted to open vegetation on rock outcrops within the forested region of Atlantic Central Africa. Nothodissotis barteri has a scattered distribution in Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and Príncipe Island, while N. alenensis is endemic to the Monte Alén massif in Equatorial Guinea, an area where N. barteri does not occur. Nothodissotis alenensis differs from N. barteri by its hypanthium bearing sessile appendages with penicillate hairs (vs. stalked stellate appendages) and its staminal appendages that are much smaller in antepetalous than in antesepalous stamens (vs. subequal in all stamens). The conservation status of both N. barteri and N. alenensis is assessed as Vulnerable in accordance with IUCN criteria.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

Selaginella dianzhongensis (Selaginellaceae), a new spikemoss from China
A new species of spikemoss from Yunnan Province of China, Selaginella dianzhongensis, is described and illustrated based on evidence from gross morphology, micromorphology and molecular phylogeny. S. dianzhongensis is most similar to S. amblyphylla in its habit of creeping stem, leaf size, and obviously dimorphic sporophylls, but is distinct by its ventral leaves ovate-oblong, subcordate at base, basiscopic base entire, axillary leaves ovate and decurrent at base. Molecular phylogeny analysis of three chloroplast gene regions (rbcL, atpI, psbA) shows that S. dianzhongensis forms an independent branch with strong support which is distantly related to S. amblyphlla and S. kurzii, but sister to S. bodinieri which is quite different in habitat of erect or ascending stem and rhizophores restricted to the lower part, and slightly dimorphic sporophyllus.
["Lycophytes"]

Solanum medusae (Solanaceae), a new wolf-fruit from Brazil, and a key to the extra-Amazonian Brazilian Androceras/Crinitum Clade species
Solanum medusae sp. nov. is described from the Cerrado biome in the Serra da Canastra region, southwestern Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The new species is morphologically similar to the common S. lycocarpum A.St.-Hil. (known as lobeira or wolf-fruit), but differs from it in habit and pubescence characters. We here describe this new taxon and discuss its morphology, some aspects of its ecology, affinities and distribution. Full specimen citations are provided, as well as illustrations, distribution map and a preliminary conservation assessment of the species. A key to all of the known extra-Amazonian Brazilian species of the Androceras/Crinitum clade is also provided to aid in their identification.

The taxonomic relevance of flower colour for Epimedium (Berberidaceae), with morphological and nomenclatural notes for five species from China
Morphological variations, particularly flower colour, could be considered as an evolutionarily and ornamentally significant taxonomic criterion for Epimedium. Our extensive field investigation based on population studies revealed abundant intraspecific variations in flower colour. Five species, (i.e., E. acuminatum Franch., E. leptorrhizum Stearn, E. pauciflorum K.C.Yen, E. mikinorii Stearn, and E. glandulosopilosum H.R.Liang) were found to possess polymorphic flower colour, which is first described and illustrated here. Moreover, all these species were found to be polymorphic in other diagnostic characters, such as the type of rhizome, the number and arrangement of stem-leaves, and/or their indumentum, which have not been adequately described in previous studies. Therefore, their morphological descriptions have been complemented and/or revised. We also provide notes on the morphology and nomenclature for each species. Additionally, a key to the species in China has been provided. The present study could serve as a basis for understanding their taxonomy and helping their utilisation as an ornamental plant.
["intraspecific"]
["Medicinal Plant Pharmacodynamics Research", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Phytochemical compounds biological activities"]

Cirsium tatakaense (Compositae), a new species from Taiwan
A new species of Cirsium, Cirsium tatakaense Y.H.Tseng & C.Y.Chang, from central-southern Taiwan is described and illustrated. This species is similar to C. kawakamii Hayata in leaf shape, achene and chromosome number (2n = 64), but can be readily distinguished from C. kawakamii by the narrower leaf lobes, usually higher number of florets and phyllaries, the purplish-red corolla (vs. white) and larger pollen grains. A key to the species of Cirsium in Taiwan is also presented.
["Silymarin and Mushroom Poisoning", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties"]

Dacar Cas/Somali Red Aloe: a new species of Aloe (Asphodelaceae) from Somaliland
A new species of Aloe (Asphodelaceae) is described from Somaliland. It differs from other species in forming large clumps and in having sap that is initially yellow but quickly turns bright red and then dark red or reddish-brown, paniculate red-flowered inflorescences and uniformly coloured leaves with red teeth. Its recognition raises the number of species known from the combined area of Somaliland and Somalia s.s. from 31 to 36. A map portraying species density of Aloe by country, as that genus is now interpreted, shows that Aloe has its highest density on islands in the Indian Ocean but that, within Africa, the greatest density is in countries along the eastern highlands. The data also reinforce the importance of field botanists in determining a country’s known plant diversity.
["Asparagales"]
["Phytochemistry and biological activity of medicinal plants", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants"]

Hedychium ziroense (Zingiberaceae), a new species of ginger lily from Northeast India
We describe Hedychium ziroense sp. nov. from Northeast India (NE India) which was discovered during one of our recent botanical explorations in Arunachal Pradesh. We provide detailed morphological comparison of this species with four other Hedychium species (H. griersonianum R.M.Sm., H. ellipticum Buch.-Ham. ex Sm., H. gomezianum Wall. and H. yunnanense Gagnep.), with which it shares some morphological similarities. The new species is characterised by a dense cylindrical spike, pubescent rachis, folded bracts, 2–3 flowers per cincinnus, deeply cleft labellum and a distinctive late monsoonal flowering phenology from August to September.
["Apatani"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Southeast Asian Sociopolitical Studies", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies"]

Senyumia granitica (Gesneriaceae) from Johor, Malaysia, the second species of Senyumia
The genus Senyumia was previously known from a single species, S. minutiflora (Ridl.) Kiew, A.Weber & B.L.Burtt, from a limestone karst, Gunung Senyum, in Pahang, Malaysia. Senyumia granitica Kiew, here described and illustrated, is the second species of the genus. It differs from S. minutiflora, not only in its habitat, but also in its shorter leaves, larger, non-resupinate or only partially resupinate flowers and smaller seeds. It is known from a small, fragmented population from a low range of hills. Therefore, under the IUCN Red List Categories & Criteria, it is assessed as Critically Endangered.

Taxonomic revision of Mcvaughia W.R.Anderson (Malpighiaceae): notes on vegetative and reproductive anatomy and the description of a new species
A taxonomic revision of Mcvaughia is presented, including the description of a new species from the state of Piauí, Brazil, and notes on wood, secondary phloem, leaf, and floral morpho-anatomy. We present a key to the species, full morphological descriptions, a distribution map, and notes on distribution, ecology, etymology, and conservation status for each species.

Spiradiclis karstana (Rubiaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Spiradiclis karstana, a new species of Spiradiclis (Rubiaceae) collected from Yunnan, China, is described for the first time. It is morphologically close to S. jingxiensis, but differs from the latter mainly by its inflorescences with 5–9 flowers, its 1.5–2.4 mm long peduncles, its stipules shorter than 1 mm and the 5–12 pairs of secondary veins. The conservation status is assessed as “Vulnerable” (VU) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Spiradiclis"]

Taxonomic revision of Chenopodiaceae in Himalaya and Tibet
The composition of many Chenopodiaceae genera in different parts of Himalaya and Tibet has been insufficiently known or contradictory. A revision of the family in Himalaya including Bhutan, Nepal, parts of India (Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim and Uttarakhand) and Tibet (Xizang, China) is presented for the first time. Altogether, 57 species from 20 genera are reported, including three species new to science (Agriophyllum tibeticum, Salsola austrotibetica and Salsola hartmannii). Atriplex centralasiatica, Corispermum dutreuilii and Salsola monoptera are identified as new records for India and Chenopodium pamiricum is recorded in China for the first time. Dysphania ambrosioides and Sympegma regelii are recorded for Xizang. The generic and species keys, species distributions (including maps) and taxonomic notes are provided. We indicate for the first time that the presence of short yellow hairs is the remarkable morphological characteristic of the genus Grubovia. Evident heterocarpy and heterospermy is found in Dysphania for the first time (Dysphania tibetica). Agriophyllum pungens, Atriplex crassifolia, Atriplex laciniata, Atriplex sagittata, Axyris amaranthoides, Axyris hybrida, Bassia indica, Corispermum korovinii, Dysphania schraderiana (=Chenopodium foetidum auct.), Halocharis violacea and Suaeda microsperma are excluded from the species list. Neobotrydium corniculatum is synonymised with Dysphania kitiae, Neobotrydium longii with Dysphania himalaica and Neobotrydium ornithopodum seems to be conspecific with Dysphania nepalensis. Corispermum ladakhianum is a new synonym of Corispermum tibeticum. Amaranthus diandrus is added to the synonyms of Acroglochin persicarioides, and Bassia fiedleri, previously considered as conspecific with Grubovia dasyphylla, is added to the synonymy of Bassia scoparia. Lectotypes of Anabasis glomerata (≡Halogeton glomeratus), Halogeton tibeticus (=Halogeton glomeratus), Amaranthus diandrus (=Acroglochin persicarioides), Chenopodium tibeticum (≡Dysphania tibetica), Corispermum dutreuilii, Corispermum falcatum, Corispermum lhasaense, Corispermum pamiricum var. pilocarpum (=Corispermum gelidum, syn. nov.), Corispermum tibeticum, Kochia indica(≡Bassia indica), Kochia odontoptera (≡Bassia odontoptera) and Salsola monoptera are selected. Out of 53 native elements, 42 are restricted in their distribution to Himalaya and Tibet at altitudes 2000–4500 m above sea level. The greatest taxonomic diversity of the Chenopodiaceae is represented in Jammu and Kashmir (India) and Xizang (China) with a continuous decrease in the number of species southwards.
["Bhutan"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Trollius austrosibiricus (Ranunculaceae), a new species from South Siberia
Trollius austrosibiricus Erst & Luferov, sp. nov., a new species from Russian South Siberia is described and illustrated. This new species is endemic to Western and Central Siberia. Morphologically, it is close to the East Asian species T. chinensis and T. macropetalus. However, it differs from the aforementioned species due to the morphology of the rhizomes, aerial shoots, sepals and petals. This species is also distinguished from T. asiaticus, which is widespread in Russia (Western and Eastern Siberia), Mongolia, China, north-eastern Kazakhstan and in the northeast of the European part of Russia, in having a smaller number of sepals, longer persistent styles and petals longer than sepals. In addition, an identification key for all Russian species is given and all species have been discussed.
["Ranunculaceae"]
["Chromatography in Natural Products", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

Camelina neglecta (Brassicaceae, Camelineae), a new diploid species from Europe
Camelina neglecta is described as a new diploid species and its relationship to the other diploids of the genus and to the somewhat superficially similar tetraploid C. rumelica and hexaploid C. microcarpa, are discussed. SEM of seed and stem trichomes of the new species are presented.
["Brassicaceae"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Nuts composition and effects"]

Evolutionary relationships and taxonomy of Microtea (Microteaceae), a basal lineage in the core Caryophyllales
The basal position of the small American genus Microtea within the core Caryophyllales was suggested only recently in accordance with molecular phylogeny. However, the specific relationships within the genus were not traced. The results of our phylogenetic analysis based on the matK chloroplast gene suggest the monophyly of Microtea, and Ancistrocarpus and other related genera should be included in it. Microtea is divided into two major sister clades: clade A consisting of M. glochidiata, M. maypurensis and M. tenuifolia, and clade B comprising M. debilis, M. sulcicaulis, M. scabrida, M. celosioides, and M. papillosa. The nrDNA dataset (ITS), although containing only a limited number of accessions, shows the same species number in clade A, and the remaining species studied (M. debilis, M. scabrida and M. celosioides) form clade B. Subgeneric status is assigned to clades A and B corresponding with the names Microtea subgen. Ancistrocarpus subgen. nov. and Microtea subgen. Microtea, respectively. The diagnostic characters at the subgeneric level are as follows: length of pedicels, number of flowers at each node, number of stamens and styles. A multivariate analysis of 13 distinguishing morphological characters supports the results of phylogenetic analysis. All species have similar pericarp and seed ultrasculpture and anatomy, and they share the reticulate pericarp surface (independent of presence or absence of finger-shaped outgrowths on its surface) and rugose or slightly alveolate seed ultrasculpture. On the basis of morphological characters, we accept 10 Microtea species. A checklist includes a new diagnostic key, morphological descriptions and distribution patterns of each species. Galenia celosioides is the oldest legitimate name available for the plants previously known as Microtea paniculata, for which the combination Microtea celosioides is validated here. The neotypes of Galenia celosioides and Microtea sprengelii were designated from the collections of Prinz Wied at BR. The name M. foliosa is discussed and finally synonymized with M. scabrida. The lectotypes of Ancistrocarpus maypurensis (≡Microtea maypurensis), Microtea debilis var. ovata (=M. debilis), M. glochidiata, M. maypurensis var. angustifolia (=M. tenuifolia), M. glochidiata f. lanceolata (=M. maypurensis), M. longebracteata (=M. celosioides), M. paniculata var. latifolia (=M. scabrida), M. portoricensis, M. scabrida, M. sulcicaulis, and Potamophila parviflora (=M. maypurensis) are designated. Microtea sulcicaulis is reported for the first time as native to Bolivia, and M. maypurensis is reported from Indonesia (Java), where it is found as an alien plant with an unclear invasion status.
["Caryophyllales"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and animal studies"]

Revision of Muhlenbergia (Poaceae, Chloridoideae, Cynodonteae, Muhlenbergiinae) in Peru: classification, phylogeny, and a new species, M. romaschenkoi
A taxonomic treatment, phylogeny based on analysis of six DNA sequence markers (ITS, ndhA intron, rpl32-trnL, rps3, rps16 intron and rps16-trnK) and classification of Muhlenbergia for Peru is given. Seventeen species and one presumed hybrid are recognised. Muhlenbergia romaschenkoi sp. nov. is newly described from the Río Huallaga Valley, northeast of Huánuco. The type of Podosemum angustatum [≡ Muhlenbergia angustata] clearly aligns with what we had been referring to as the hybrid between this species and M. rigida. Therefore, we adopt the next available heterotypic name, Muhlenbergia coerulea, for what we had been calling M. angustata and change the hybrid designation to M. coerulea × M. rigida. Lectotypes are designated for Epicampes coerulea Griseb., Muhlenbergia affinis Trin., Muhlenbergia berlandieri Trin., Muhlenbergia beyrichiana Kunth, Muhlenbergia elegans var. atroviolacea Kuntze, Muhlenbergia elegans var. subviridis Kuntze and Muhlenbergia phragmitoides Griseb.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Tacca khanhhoaensis V.S. Dang & Vuong (Taccaceae), a new species from southern Vietnam
Tacca khanhhoaensis V.S. Dang & Vuong (Taccaceae) is described as a new species from Hon Ba Nature Reserve in southern Vietnam. This species is morphologically similar to T. chantrieri and T. ampliplacenta but differs from its allies by several salient characters: size of leaves and petioles, inflorescent much shorter leaves, number of flowers, stigma lobes, buds colour. A description, conservation assessment, together with photographs and a key to the species of Tacca in Vietnam are presented.
["Hon Ba Nature Reserve"]

New species of Paullinia (Sapindaceae) from continental tropical America
Six new species are described in the large Neotropical genus Paullinia (Sapindaceae), P. cidii, P. decorticans, P. fruticosa, P. hondurensis; P. martinellii and P. wurdackii. In addition, they are illustrated and contrasted to the morphologically most similar species currently known. The new species were discovered while working on a forthcoming revision of the genus.

Taxonomic revision of the African genus Greenwayodendron (Annonaceae)
Greenwayodendron (Annonaceae) is a tropical African genus of trees occurring mainly in rain forests. Until recently, Greenwayodendron contained only two species: Greenwayodendron oliveri from West Africa and Greenwayodendron suaveolens from Central and East Africa. Genetic data, using chloroplast haplotypes and nuclear microsatellites as well as morphometric analyses, provided important information on the delineation of species. Greenwayodendron now contains six species, including two new species (Greenwayodendron glabrum Lissambou, Hardy & Couvreur, sp. nov. and Greenwayodendron littorale Lissambou, Dauby & Couvreur, sp. nov.). Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica and Greenwayodendron suaveolens subsp. usambaricum are recognised as distinct species: Greenwayodendron gabonicum comb. nov. and Greenwayodendron usambaricum comb. nov., respectively. A key, detailed descriptions of morphology and geographic distributions, as well as notes on their ecology and uses are presented for all species. Preliminary conservation assessments following IUCN criteria are also provided. Two species are preliminarily identified as threatened, one as Endangered and one as Vulnerable.

Radiation of members of the Soroseris hookeriana complex (Asteraceae) on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and their proposed taxonomic treatment
The existence of intermediate types is a major obstacle that can hinder the circumscription of species. Elucidating the mechanism responsible for intermediate types is essential for achieving a reasonable taxonomical treatment. In this study, we explored the evolutionary history and taxonomic treatment of the Soroseris hookeriana (C.B.Clarke) Stebbins complex, which comprises six named taxa that may be taxonomically distinct and are all native to the Qingha-Tibetan Plateau (QTP). We made an investigation across the distribution range of Soroseris Stebbins and sampled 27 populations, mostly from the complex. Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and two chloroplast loci were sequenced and analysed using the neighbour-joining and Bayesian inference methods. The resulting phylogenies show no well supported inconsistence in topologies, in line with the lack of incongruence detected by the length difference test. However, all the trees were largely unresolved within S. hookeriana complex, irrespective of the optimality criterion employed. We interpret these results as an experience of radiation, which is a common process for native genera on the QTP. Thus, we suggest that all of the morphotypes might be different forms, generated by incipient speciation due to recent explosive differentiation, possibly triggered by the drastic environmental changes of the QTP. Given their evolutionary history, we propose a pragmatic method for treating all of these species as subspecies with a total of four new combinations.
["Radiation"]

The indigenous vascular flora of the forest domain of Anela (Sardinia, Italy)
The importance of mountains for plant diversity and richness is underestimated, particularly when transition zones between different bioclimates are present along altitudinal gradients. Here we present the first floristic data for a mountain area in the island of Sardinia (Italy), which exhibits Mediterranean bioclimates at the bottom and temperate bioclimate at the top. We discovered a very high floristic richness, despite the fact that the number of endemic taxa is not high and the number of exclusive taxa is very low. Many of the detected taxa are at their range periphery and/or ecological margin. We conclude that climate transition zones in Mediterranean mountains and especially on islands are key areas regarding plant biodiversity and should be better investigated and protected.
["bioclimate"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Medinilla theresae (Melastomataceae), a new species from ultramafic soils in the Philippines
A new species, Medinilla theresae Fernando, from ultramafic soils on Dinagat and Mindanao Islands, Philippines is described and illustrated. The species is characterized by its terrestrial erect habit, non-setose nodes, 3-plinerved, lanceolate and coriaceous leaves arranged in whorls, cauline or axillary and pendulous inflorescences, rounded flower buds, 4-merous flowers, and straight anthers. It is compared with other similar species in the Medinilla pendula Merr. complex.
["Dinagat Island"]

A new genus of Compositae (Eupatorieae, Piqueriinae) from Peru, named Centenaria to honour the 100 th anniversary of the Natural History Museum of the National University Mayor of San Marcos
A little herb from central Peru is recognised as a new species of a new genus. Centenaria rupacquiana belongs to the tribe Eupatorieae, subtribe Piqueriinae. It has asymmetrical corollas with two inner lobes smaller, a flat and epaleaceous receptacle and the presence of pappus. In Peru, Centenaria is related to the genera Ferreyrella and Ellenbergia, but Ferreyrella is different by having no pappus and a paleate receptacle; and on the other hand, Ellenbergia is different by having symmetrical corollas.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Diatoms from Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska, USA
As a contribution to our knowledge of diatom biodiversity and biogeography in the United States, high resolution light microscope images are provided for 139 diatom taxa recorded from lake, stream, spring and glacier habitats in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska. The spring had the highest taxa richness of the four habitats that were sampled, likely owing to the relative stability of this habitat compared to the others. Most of the taxa were described from northern and alpine locations in Europe and North America and are typical of habitats in the northern Rocky Mountains, with two notable exceptions. Surirella arctica had been reported previously only from locations in the High Arctic of North America, north of 68°N latitude. Gomphonema caperatum has a disjunct distribution in montane regions of the eastern and far western contiguous United States. This may be the first record of this taxon from Alaska.
["diatoms"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Thismia sumatrana (Thismiaceae), a new species from West Sumatra, Indonesia, with discussions on the taxonomic identity of Thismia clavigera
A new species of the mycoheterotrophic genus Thismia Griff. (Thismiaceae), Thismia sumatrana Suetsugu & Tsukaya, from West Sumatra, Indonesia, is described, based on a rehydrated herbarium specimen from National Museum of Nature and Science, Japan. Thismia sumatrana is closely related to T. clavigera (Becc.) F.Muell. but is distinguished by a much larger flower.
["Thismia"]

The Cuito catchment of the Okavango system: a vascular plant checklist for the Angolan headwaters
This paper aims to provide a baseline for conservation planning by documenting patterns of plant diversity and vegetation in the upper catchment of the Cuito River. 417 species are recorded from this region. Nine of these are species potentially new to science. Ten species are newly recorded from Angola, with an additional species only recorded previously within Angola from the northern enclave of Cabinda. The 108 new provincial records for Moxico clearly indicate the lack of collections from Angola’s largest province. We note the existence of extensive peat deposits in the Cuito river system for the first time and suggest that one of Barbosa’s vegetation types in the area needs to be reassessed.
["Angola"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A taxonomic revision of the Neotropical genus Cremastosperma (Annonaceae), including five new species
We present a taxonomic revision of Cremastosperma, a genus of Neotropical Annonaceae occurring in lowland to premontane wet forest, mostly in areas surrounding the Andean mountain chain. We recognise 34 species, describing five as new here: from east of the Andes, C. brachypodum Pirie & Chatrou, sp. nov. and C. dolichopodum Pirie & Maas, sp. nov., endemic to Peru; C. confusum Pirie, sp. nov., from southern Peru and adjacent Bolivia and Brazil; and C. alticola Pirie & Chatrou, sp. nov., at higher elevations in northern Peru and Ecuador; and from west of the Andes, C. osicola Pirie & Chatrou, sp. nov. endemic to Costa Rica, the most northerly distributed species of the genus. We provide an identification key, document diagnostic characters and distributions and provide illustrations and extensive lists of specimens, also presenting the latter in the form of mapping data with embedded links to images available online. Of the 34 species, 22 are regional endemics. On the basis of the extent of occurrence and area of occupancy of species estimated from the distribution data, we designate IUCN threat categries for all species. Fourteen species proved to be endangered (EN) and a further one critically endangered (CR), reflecting their rarity and narrow known distributions.

Haplophyllum ermenekense (Rutaceae), a new species from Turkey
A new species of Haplophyllum, Haplophyllum ermenekense (Rutaceae) is described and illustrated in line drawing. It grows on stony slopes of Ermenek town, Karaman province, in southern Turkey. It is compared with the closely related species H. myrtifolium. H. ermenekense is distinguished from the morphologically similar H myrtifolium chiefly by sepal shape, petal size, capsule size, presence of capsule hair and appendage form. On the other hand, the seed coat and pollen grains surface of H. ermenekense and H. myrtifolium are demonstrated in SEM photographs. In addition to the detailed description, the illustration, distribution map, conservation status and ecology of the new species are also provided.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

A sticky and heavily armed new species of Solanum (Solanum subg. Leptostemonum, Solanaceae) from eastern Brazil
We describe a new species of spiny Solanum (Solanum subg. Leptostemonum), endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and associated with granitic outcrops (inselbergs or sugar loaf mountains). Solanum kollastrum Gouvêa & Giacomin, sp. nov. is morphologically similar to the poorly known S. sublentum Hiern, but is a heavily armed, much more robust plant with stellate-glandular indumentum. Together with S. sublentum, it is morphologically related to some species of Solanum such as S. hexandrum Vell., S. robustum H.Wendl., and S. stagnale Moric. that share strongly accrescent calyces, large leaves with the bases decurrent on to the petiole, pendent simple inflorescences and large, robust flowers. The new species is restricted to a few known populations in southern Bahia and north-eastern Minas Gerais states and conservation efforts are needed.

Chrysosplenium ramosissimum Y.I.Kim & Y.D.Kim (Saxifragaceae), a new species from Korea
This study describes and illustrates Chrysosplenium ramosissimum, a new plant species from Mt. Seonjaryeong, located in the central region of the Korean Peninsula. The species is most similar to C. valdepilosum but is readily distinguishable by the presence of yellowish-green bracteal leaves during flowering, highly branched sterile branches, shiny silvery dots on sterile branch leaves and larger tubercles on the seed coat.
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

A new disjunct species of Eriolaena (Malvaceae, Dombeyoideae) from Continental Africa
Eriolaena rulkensii Dorr, sp. nov. is described and illustrated. This attractive shrub is endemic to coastal Mozambique. The new species has apically winged seeds, which place it in a group of Malvaceae (Dombeyoideae) that is found in Asia and Madagascar and which had not previously been found in continental Africa.
["Dombeyoideae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Two new species of Raphia (Palmae/Arecaceae) from Cameroon and Gabon
Raphia (Arecaceae, Calamoideae) is the most diverse genus of African palms with around 20 species. Two new species from Cameroon and Gabon, Raphia gabonica Mogue, Sonké & Couvreur, sp. nov. and Raphia zamiana Mogue, Sonké & Couvreur, sp. nov. are described and illustrated. Their affinities are discussed and the conservation status of each species is assessed. For both species, distribution maps are provided. Raphia gabonica is restricted to two small populations from central Gabon, where it occurs on hillsides on tierra firme soil, and close to small streams. Its preliminary IUCN status is Endangered, being amongst the five most threatened palm species in Africa. Raphia gabonica potentially belongs to the moniliform section. Raphia zamiana is largely distributed from south Cameroon to south Gabon and is very common. It is also a multi-used palm, from which wine, grubs and construction material are extracted and sold. It generally occurs in large stands in a wide range of ecosystems such as swamps, coastal forests on partially inundated sandy soils and inundated savannahs. Its large stature, hard to access habitat (swamps) and abundant presence might have discouraged botanists to collect it until now. Raphia zamiana belongs to the taxonomically complex raphiate section.

A new large-flowered species of Andeimalva (Malvaceae, Malvoideae) from Peru
Andeimalva peruviana Dorr & C.Romero, sp. nov., the third Peruvian endemic in a small genus of five species, is described and illustrated from a single collection made at high elevation on the eastern slopes of the Andes. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of nuclear ribosomal ITS sequence data resolve a group of northern species of Andeimalva found in Bolivia and Peru from the morphologically very different southern A. chilensis. The new species bears the largest flowers of any Andeimalva and is compared with Bolivian A. mandonii. A revised key to the genus is presented.
["Andeimalva"]

Two new species of Hiptage (Malpighiaceae) from Yunnan, Southwest of China
Hiptage pauciflora Y.H. Tan & Bin Yang and Hiptage ferruginea Y.H. Tan & Bin Yang, two new species of Malpighiaceae from Yunnan, South-western China are here described and illustrated. Morphologically, H. pauciflora Y.H. Tan & Bin Yang is similar to H. benghalensis (L.) Kurz and H. multiflora F.N. Wei; H. ferruginea Y.H. Tan & Bin Yang is similar to H. calcicola Sirirugsa. The major differences amongst these species are outlined and discussed. A diagnostic key to the two new species of Hiptage and their closely related species is provided.
["Hiptage"]

Hedychium viridibracteatum X.Hu, a new species from Guangxi Autonomous Region, South China
Hedychium viridibracteatum X.Hu, a new species from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, South China, is described and illustrated. Hedychium viridibracteatum X.Hu is included in the short-anther group of Hedychium and is most similar to Hedychium villosum Wall. var. tenuiflorum Voigt ex Baker, H. villosum Wall. var. villosum Wall., and H. chingmeianum N. Odyuo & D. K. Roy.
["Hedychium"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "HIV Research and Treatment"]

Coccomyxa greatwallensis sp. nov. (Trebouxiophyceae, Chlorophyta), a lichen epiphytic alga from Fildes Peninsula, Antarctica
A single-celled green alga Coccomyxa greatwallensis Shunan Cao & Qiming Zhou, sp. nov., isolated from a specimen of Antarctic lichen Psoroma hypnorum (Vahl) Gray, is described and illustrated based on a comprehensive investigation of morphology, ultrastructure, ecology and phylogeny. The cells of C. greatwallensis are ovoid to long ellipsoidal and measured 3–5 µm × 6–12 µm. The new species has distinct ITS rDNA and SSU rDNA sequences and differs from the phylogenetic closely related species C. antarctica, C. arvernensis and C. viridis in cell size, distribution and habitat.
["Lichen epiphyte"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Polar Research and Ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Novitates neocaledonicae X: A very rare and threatened new microendemic species of Acropogon (Malvaceae, Sterculioideae) from New Caledonia
A new species, Acropogon horarius Gâteblé & Munzinger, sp. nov. (Malvaceae, Sterculioideae), is described from New Caledonia. It is known only from two very small subpopulations in the rainforests of the Petchécara Pass between Thio and Canala, in the southeast of Grande-Terre, New Caledonia’s main island. This shrub to small tree has hastate leaves and minute sessile tubular whitish-yellowish flowers and is strikingly different from all other members of the genus. The type locality is geologically complex and located within one of only four amphibolite lenses known in New Caledonia. A line drawing and colour photos are provided for the new species, along with a preliminary risk of extinction assessment, which indicates that the species is Critically Endangered.
["Acropogon"]

Completing the jigsaw: the first record of the female plant of Daphnopsis filipedunculata (Thymelaeaceae), an endemic species from the Brazilian Amazon
The results of intensive fieldwork in the National Forest of Carajás (FLONA Carajás) led to the discovery of pistillate plants of Daphnopsis filipedunculata, an endemic species from the Serra dos Carajás, previously known only from staminate individuals. These newly discovered populations add valuable missing information related to pistillate buds, mature flowers and fruits.
["Amazon rainforest"]

A new genus of temperate woody bamboos (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Arundinarieae) from a limestone montane area of China
Ampelocalamus calcareus is a climbing and slender bamboo, known from south Guizhou, China. This species grows in broadleaved forests of limestone montane areas. Recent molecular phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that A. calcareus was sister to all other lineages of the tribe Arundinarieae rather than a member of Ampelocalamus. The morphological features and habitats of A. calcareus and related genera including Ampelocalamus, Drepanostachyum and Himalayacalamus were compared and discussed. The characteristics of the branch complements, nodes and foliage leaves distinguish A. calcareus from morphologically similar taxa. On the basis of molecular and morphological evidence, we propose to establish a new genus, Hsuehochloa, to accommodate A. calcareus and to honour the late Chinese bamboo taxonomist Chi-Ju Hsueh (Ji-Ru Xue). In addition, we describe the inflorescence of Hsuehochloa for the first time.
["Ampelocalamus"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Tree Root and Stability Studies"]

Thesium nautimontanum, a new species of Thesiaceae (Santalales) from South Africa
Thesium nautimontanum M.A. García, Nickrent & Mucina, a new species from the Matroosberg Mt. of Western Cape Province of South Africa, is described and illustrated. This species shows several morphological features unusual for the genus including stem sympodial branching, indeterminate spicate inflorescences subtended by numerous bracts and fleshy, non-trichome tissue lining the inside of the corolla lobes. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer sequences place this taxon as sister to all African, Madagascan and South American Thesium species. Given that only two proximal populations are known, this species is of conservation concern.
["Capensis"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Eutrema nanum (Brassicaceae), a new species from Chola Shan, Southwest China
Eutrema nanum, a new high-elevation (4500–4600 m) species from Chola Shan, Sichuan (Southwest China), is described and illustrated. It is similar morphologically to E. nepalense but is readily distinguished by having oblong to elliptic or obovate to spatulate (vs. suborbicular to broadly ovate) leaves, glabrous (vs. puberulent) sepals and ovate to oblong fruit 4–7 × 2–3 mm with flattened valves (vs. ovoid to subglobose fruit 2–3 × 1.8–2 mm with rounded valves). The genetic differences amongst E. nanum, E. nepalense and other close relatives are further confirmed by phylogenetic analyses using ITS and cpDNA sequence variations. The new combination E. sinense is proposed.
["Cruciferae"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A revision of the Old World Black Nightshades (Morelloid clade of Solanum L., Solanaceae)
The Morelloid clade, also known as the black nightshades or “Maurella” (Morella), is one of the 10 major clades within Solanum L. The pantropical clade consists of 75 currently recognised non-spiny herbaceous and suffrutescent species with simple or branched hairs with or without glandular tips, with a centre of distribution in the tropical Andes. A secondary centre of diversity is found in Africa, where a set of mainly polyploid taxa occur. A yet smaller set of species is found in Australasia and Europe, including Solanum nigrum L., the type of the genus Solanum. Due to the large number of published synonyms, combined with complex morphological variation, our understanding of species limits and diversity in the Morelloid clade has remained poor despite detailed morphological studies carried out in conjunction with breeding experiments. Here we provide the first taxonomic overview since the 19th century of the entire group in the Old World, including Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe and islands of the Pacific. Complete synonymy, morphological descriptions, distribution maps and common names and uses are provided for all 19 species occurring outside the Americas (i.e. Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe and islands of the Pacific). We treat 12 species native to the Old World, as well as 7 taxa that are putatively introduced and/or invasive in the region. The current knowledge of the origin of the polyploid species is summarised. A key to all of the species occurring in the Old World is provided, together with line drawings and colour figures to aid identification both in herbaria and in the field. Preliminary conservation assessments are provided for all species.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Atlas of diatoms (Bacillariophyta) from diverse habitats in remote regions of western Canada
High-resolution LM images of diatoms from remote regions of western Canada are presented as a contribution to our knowledge of diatom floristics, ecology and biogeography in North America. Approximately 600 taxa are imaged in 132 plates. Genera with the most taxa are Cymbella (19 taxa), Cymbopleura (29), Encyonema (23), Encyonopsis (15), Eunotia (77), Gomphonema (42), Navicula (47), Neidium (20), Nitzschia (35), Pinnularia (50) and Stauroneis (34). Diatoms were collected from diverse habitats in four of North America’s major biomes: Arctic tundra, taiga, Rocky Mountains and Pacific rainforest. Many of the photographed taxa could not be identified to species and are likely new to science. Other taxa may represent new records for North America or Canada. Images of voucher specimens are keyed to individual collection sites. Detailed descriptions of the collection sites include GPS coordinates, colour photographs, vegetation, algal substrates, elevations, pH, temperature and conductivity. Samples were collected from natural substrates in fresh to brackish, flowing and standing waters. Voucher slides are deposited in the Montana Diatom Collection (Helena) and the University of Montana Herbarium (Missoula). Cleaned diatom frustules have been deposited in the Diatom Herbarium of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

Wandering throughout South America: Taxonomic revision of Tradescantia subg. Austrotradescantia (D.R.Hunt) M.Pell. (Commelinaceae)
I present the first taxonomic revision for T. subg. Austrotradescantia, based on extensive field, cultivation and herbaria studies. I accept 13 species, three of them (i.e. T. atlantica, T. hertweckii and T. tucumanensis) being described as new in the present study. I provide an identification key to the species, distribution maps, descriptions, comments, conservation assessments and illustrations for all species. The troublesome weed T. fluminensis has its specific limits clarified and its native range is presented so it can serve as a basis to better understanding its ecological requirements and to help control it throughout its invasive range. Furthermore, I highlight that T. mundula, a commonly neglected species closely related to T. fluminensis, might also represent a troublesome weed. Tradescantia mundula has been widely introduced in cultivation under the name T. albiflora and seems to have also escaped from cultivation. However, due to the hitherto poorly understood specific limits of T. fluminensis, T. mundula has been treated as a mere cultivar of T. fluminensiss.s.
["Commelinales"]

Phylogeny of Muhlenbergia subg. Pseudosporobolus, including M. spatha (Poaceae, Chloridoideae, Cynodonteae, Muhlenbergiinae) now found in Zacatecas, Mexico
Muhlenbergia spatha, previously known only from near the type locality in San Luis Potosí, is reported from two localities in Zacatecas, Mexico. Historically, botanists have overlooked this diminutive annual. To clarify affinities of M. spatha, we present a molecular phylogeny emphasising species in M. subg. Pseudosporobolus using sequence data from two plastid markers (rpl32-trnL and rps16 intron) and nrDNA ITS. In addition, we include an updated description, illustration and discussion of the habitat of M. spatha.
["grasses"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Updated checklist of Poa in the Iberian Peninsula and Balearic Islands
Based on our study of 4,845 herbarium sheets of the genus Poa from the area covered by Flora iberica, namely, the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands, we recognise 24 taxa (17 species, 1 subspecies and 8 varieties), mostly perennials. Most of these taxa have wide global and/or European distributions, while two (P. legionensis and P. minor subsp. nevadensis) are Spanish endemics and two have restricted distributions (P. ligulata, Iberia–North Africa; P. flaccidula, Iberia–North Africa and the Balearic Islands, extending to Provence, France). We have studied the original publications of more than 225 names considered as synonyms, with those more historically cited in Flora iberica taken into account in this paper; a total of 26 are new synonyms. The following names are typified: P. alpina var. involucrata Lange, P. annua var. lanuginosa Sennen, P. minor subsp. nevadensis Nannf., P. paui Font Quer, P. sulcata Lag. and P. trivialis var. flaccida Willk. ex J.J. Rodr. We include P. compressa L. in the flora of Portugal for the first time and present detailed illustrations of three very interesting taxa (P. legionensis, P. minor subsp. nevadensis and P. ligulata). In addition to a general species key, we provide the following information for each taxon: synonyms, types, typification, the most relevant iconography, regional flowering time, regional and general distribution and, as supplementary material, the number of sheets examined and a list of selected materials.
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Manihot takape sp. nov. (Euphorbiaceae), a new tuberous subshrub from the Paraguayan Chaco
Manihot takape De Egea & Peña-Chocarro, sp. nov. is described and illustrated as a new species from the Paraguayan Chaco. It was collected while carrying out fieldwork related to the study of the most important Wild Crop Relatives of the country’s flora. Morphological characteristics that differentiate this species from closely related taxa, as well as its habitat, geographical distribution and conservation status are provided.
["Paraguay"]
["Cassava research and cyanide", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Begonia medogensis, a new species of Begoniaceae from Western China and Northern Myanmar
Begonia medogensis JianW.Li, Y.H.Tan & X.H.Jin, a new species of Begoniaceae, is described and illustrated by colour photographs. Begonia medogensis is distributed in western China and northern Myanmar. It has erect stems, is tuberless, has many triangular to lanceolate leaves, base slightly asymmetric, margins remotely and irregularly denticulate; staminate flowers have 4 perianth segments, with outer 2 segments broadly ovate, inner 2 spathulate; pistillate flowers have 5 perianth segments, unequal, outer 4 broadly ovate, inner 1 spathulate. The new species is assigned to section Platycentrum and can easily be distinguished from the other species in the section.
["Begonia"]

Poa laegaardiana, a new species from Ecuador (Poaceae, Pooideae, Poeae, Poinae)
Poa laegaardiana sp. nov., is described and illustrated. The new species was found growing on sandy, volcanic soil in Festuca-Calamagrostis dominated grasslands southwest of Ambato and 2.2 km from Fecundo Vela in Provincia de Bolivar. The new species is morphologically similar to Poa gigantea but differs in having glumes 3/4 to 7/8 as long as the adjacent lemmas, a callus with a sparse, short, dorsal tuft of woolly hairs, culms 50–72 cm tall and spikelets 4.1–4.8 mm long. In addition, we include a key to the narrow-spikelike panicled species of Poa in Ecuador.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Tree Root and Stability Studies", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Sindora stipitata (Detarioideae, Leguminosae), a new species from Thailand
Sindora stipitata, a new species in the subfamily Detarioideae (Leguminosae), collected from Nakhon Phanom Province, Thailand, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to S. leiocarpa but differs in its smaller stature (3–5 m high), 6-foliolate paripinnate leaves, falcate persistent stipules, presence of a petal auricle, absence of a petal claw, stipitate ovary and capitate stigma. A key to the Thailand and Malesia species of Sindora is provided.
["Sindora"]

A taxonomic revision of Curarea Barneby & Krukoff (Menispermaceae)
A monograph of Curarea, a neotropical genus in the plant family Menispermaceae, is presented. Curarea is distinguished from related genera by the combination of staminate flowers with sepals in two whorls and pistillate flowers with three petals, three carpels and usually elongated carpophores bearing three sessile drupelets. Nine species are recognised, amongst them two new to science, C. gentryana from Ecuador and C. barnebyana, from Ecuador and Peru. Additionally, two new combinations, C. iquitana and C. tomentocarpa, are proposed for distinct taxa recovered in a multivariate analysis of quantitative characters of the broadly distributed and morphologically variable C. toxicofera. The anatomy and morphology of species in the genus is documented, identification key, species descriptions, distribution maps and a preliminary conservation assessment for all accepted species are also provided. Of the nine species recognised here, C. barnebyana is assigned a preliminary status of Vulnerable, C. crassa (known only from the coastal Atlantic Forest in Brazil) and C. gentryana (endemic to western Ecuador) are both assigned a preliminary status of Endangered.
["Arrow poison"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Psoralea forbesiae (Psoraleeae, Fabaceae), a new species from the Swartberg Mountains of South Africa
Psoralea forbesiae C.H.Stirt., A.Bello & Muasya is a new species of Psoraleeae, Fabaceae. Psoralea forbesiae is endemic to the Swartberg Mountains and is a tall densely branched re-sprouting shrub up to 2.5 m, with bluish-green stems and with most parts covered in small crater-like glands, leaves pinnately 3-foliolate, linear-oblong, pale bluish-green, semi-conduplicate, somewhat succulent, glabrous, crowded at the end of bare branches on older stems or distributed along short branches on young shoots, petiolate. A description of P. forbesiae, together with photographs and a distribution map are presented.
["Leguminosae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Scaphochlamys disticha (Zingiberaceae), a new species with distichous inflorescence from Peninsular Malaysia
["A new species of ginger"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies", "Southeast Asian Sociopolitical Studies"]

Coccomyxa antarctica sp. nov. from the Antarctic lichen Usnea aurantiacoatra
The single celled green alga Coccomyxa antarctica Shunan Cao & Qiming Zhou, sp. nov. was isolated from the Antarctic torrential lichen Usnea aurantiacoatra (Jacq.) Bory. It is described and illustrated based on a comprehensive study of its morphology, ultrastructure, ecology and phylogeny. C. antarctica is a lichenicolous alga which has elongated cells and contains a parietal chloroplast as observed under the microscope. C. antarctica is clearly different from other species by phylogenetic analysis (ITS rDNA and SSU rDNA sequences), also it differs from its phylogenetic closely species C. viridis by its larger cell size.
["Lichen epiphyte"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Polar Research and Ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Vatica najibiana (Dipterocarpaceae), a new species from limestone in Peninsular Malaysia
Vatica najibiana Ummul-Nazrah (Dipterocarpaceae), from the Relai Forest Reserve, Gua Musang, Kelantan and Gua Tanggang, Merapoh, Pahang, is described and illustrated. This species is Endangered and known from small populations restricted to two isolated karst limestone hills. The type locality, Relai Forest Reserve limestone, is currently under threat from encroaching oil palm plantations and ongoing logging, which, if it continues, will threaten the Kelantan population with extinction. The morphology of V. najibiana and the similar V. odorata subsp. odorata and V. harmandiana is compared.
["Dipterocarpaceae"]

Chiococca grandiflora (Rubiaceae), a new species from Northern Mexico
The new species Chiococca grandiflora Lorence & T.Van Devender from Sinaloa and Sonora, Mexico differs from its congeners by its larger, showy white flowers in compact cymes of 3–9, and infundibuliform corollas 16–20 mm long with tubes 13–17 mm long and lobes 3–3.5 mm long. Its distribution, habitat, and relationships are outlined. The conservation status for this species is estimated to be Endangered (EN) based on IUCN Red List Criteria.
["Chiococca"]

Carpinus tibetana (Betulaceae), a new species from southeast Tibet, China
A new species Carpinus tibetana Z. Qiang Lu & J. Quan Liu from southeast Tibet is described and illustrated. The specimens of this new species were previously identified and placed under C. monbeigiana Hand.-Mazz. or C. mollicoma Hu. However, the specimens from southeast Tibet differ from those of C. monbeigiana from other regions with more lateral veins (19–24 vs 14–18) on each side of the midvein and dense pubescence on the abaxial leaf surface, while from those of C. mollicoma from other regions differ by nutlet with dense resinous glands and glabrous or sparsely villous at apex. Principal Component Analyses based on morphometric characters recognise the Tibetan populations as a separate group. Nuclear ribosomal ITS sequence variations show stable and distinct genetic divergences between the Tibetan populations and C. monbeigiana or C. mollicoma by two or three fixed nucleotide mutations. Phylogenetic analysis also identified three respective genetic clusters and the C. mollicoma cluster diverged early. In addition, the Tibetan populations show a disjunct geographic isolation from the other two species. Therefore, C. tibetana, based on the Tibetan populations, is here erected as a new species, distinctly different from C. monbeigiana and C. mollicoma.
["Carpinus"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

New taxonomic and conservation status of Ossiculum (Vandeae, Orchidaceae), a highly threatened and narrow-endemic angraecoid orchid from Central Africa
In the context of producing a revised phylogenetic Linnean taxonomy of angraecoid orchids, the monotypic and narrow-endemic genus Ossiculum is synonymised with Calyptrochilum. Accordingly, a new combination in Calyptrochilum is proposed for Ossiculum aurantiacum. The morphological and DNA-based evidence for this transfer is discussed. Moreover, Calyptrochilum aurantiacum is here firstly reported outside Cameroon, with a record from the Republic of the Congo. The Red List conservation status of this species is reassessed and it is to be downgraded from “Critically Endangered” (CR) to “Endangered” (EN), following the recent discovery of additional subpopulations in Cameroon.
["Angraecoid orchids"]

A revision of Xylopia L. (Annonaceae): the species of Tropical Africa
A revision of the 45 species of the pantropical genus Xylopia in Tropical Africa includes descriptions of six new species and a new section of the genus. The fruits and seeds of Xylopia show specializations that promote vertebrate dispersal, primarily by hornbills and monkeys. Over half of the African species have an Area of Occupancy (AOO) less than 80 km2, suggesting that they are in need of protection. African species are classified into five sections. Section Neoxylopia , with four species, is centered in the Guineo-Congolian Region and includes X. globosa sp. nov. Section Ancistropetala, with three species, occurs in the same region. Both of these sections are endemic to Africa. Section Xylopia, which extends to Madagascar and the American tropics, has only a single species in Africa, X. aethiopica. The three species of section Verdcourtiasect. nov. are restricted to the East African coast and Madagascar. The largest number of African species, (34) belong to section Stenoxylopia, in which the seeds lack the arils found in the other sections and instead have a fleshy sarcotesta. Section Stenoxylopia is divided into two informal groups, one centered in eastern and southern Africa (X. odoratissima group) and the other centered in the wetter forests of western and central Africa (X. acutiflora group). Five new species are described in section Stenoxylopia: Xylopia nilotica sp. nov. from Sudan, South Sudan, and Uganda, Xylopia calva sp. nov. from Nigeria and Cameroon, which is allied to X. phloiodora, and Xylopia monticola sp. nov. from Nigeria and Cameroon, X. piratae sp. nov. from Ivory Coast and Ghana, and X. unguiculata sp. nov. from Gabon. The latter three species are segregates of the former Xylopia acutiflora s. l. One new combination is made at the species level, X. shirensis comb. nov. Keys, descriptions, illustrations, distribution maps, and an index to numbered collections document diversity and assist with species identification. The name Unona oliveriana Baill. was found to pre-date the name Unona lepidota Oliv., requiring the combination Meiocarpidium oliverianum comb. nov.
["Xylopia"]

Staying cool: preadaptation to temperate climates required for colonising tropical alpine-like environments
Plant species tend to retain their ancestral ecology, responding to temporal, geographic and climatic changes by tracking suitable habitats rather than adapting to novel conditions. Nevertheless, transitions into different environments or biomes still seem to be common. Especially intriguing are the tropical alpine-like areas found on only the highest mountainous regions surrounded by tropical environments. Tropical mountains are hotspots of biodiversity, often with striking degrees of endemism at higher elevations. On these mountains, steep environmental gradients and high habitat heterogeneity within small spaces coincide with astounding species diversity of great conservation value. The analysis presented here shows that the importance of in situ speciation in tropical alpine-like areas has been underestimated. Additionally and contrary to widely held opinion, the impact of dispersal from other regions with alpine-like environments is relatively minor compared to that of immigration from other biomes with a temperate (but not alpine-like) climate. This suggests that establishment in tropical alpine-like regions is favoured by preadaptation to a temperate, especially aseasonal, freezing regime such as the cool temperate climate regions in the Tropics. Furthermore, emigration out of an alpine-like environment is generally rare, suggesting that alpine-like environments – at least tropical ones – are species sinks.
["Alpine speciation"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

Afropectinariella (Vandeae, Orchidaceae), a new genus of the Angraecum alliance
A recent phylogenetic study showed that species assigned to the newly recognised genus Pectinariella Szlach., Mytnik & Grochocka (previously treated as Angraecum Bory sect. Pectinaria Benth.) are polyphyletic, comprising a clade with species primarily in Madagascar and the Western Indian Ocean islands (including the type) and another non-sister clade whose members occur in continental Africa and the Gulf of Guinea islands. In order to render Pectinariella monophyletic, the five continental African species must therefore be removed. A new genus, Afropectinariella M.Simo & Stévart, is described and the following combinations are made: Afropectinariella atlantica (Stévart & Droissart) M.Simo & Stévart, Afropectinariella doratophylla (Summerh.) M.Simo & Stévart, Afropectinariella gabonensis (Summerh.) M.Simo & Stévart, Afropectinariella pungens (Schltr.) M.Simo & Stévart and Afropectinariella subulata (Lindl.) M.Simo & Stévart.
["Angraecoid orchids"]

Floristic affinities of the lowland savannahs of Belize and southern Mexico
Environmental heterogeneity of Belize and southern Mexico savannahs as well as their geographical location suggest that these plant communities share floristic elements, making them conducive to a phytogeographical analysis. The aim of this study was to analyse the floristic affinities of nine savannahs of Belize and southern Mexico and to explain the similarities and differences amongst them. A binary data matrix containing 915 species was built based on the authors’ own collections and on nine floristic lists already published. A second data matrix, consisting of 113 species representing trees, was also used since most literature on neotropical savannahs has focused on this life form. In addition, the ten most species-rich families as well as the characteristic species present in more than five savannahs were analysed. Floristic similarities were calculated using the Jaccard index. Dendrograms obtained in both types of analysis showed clusters with low similarity values, corresponding to geographic locations formed by the savannahs of Belize-Tabasco and the Yucatan Peninsula. The floristic affinities of the savannahs may be explained in terms of heterogeneity in climate and physiography. The Yucatan Peninsula and Belize-Tabasco groups have differences in climate type and the amount of rainfall. In addition, the Yucatan Peninsula savannahs are established at the bottom of karstic valleys, while the Belize and Tabasco savannahs develop on extensive flatlands. The savannahs of Oaxaca have the same climate type and amount of rainfall as those of the Yucatan Peninsula but they are distributed along peaks and the slopes of shale hills. Fabaceae and Poaceae mainly dominated the local floras with 121 and 116 species each; remarkably, Melastomataceae was absent in the Yucatan Peninsula and Oaxaca. Nine species occurred in five to seven savannahs, confirming that they are widespread in both Belize and southern Mexico, and the Neotropics. Geographic location and floristic affinities of the nine savannahs support, to some extent, three different biogeographic provinces.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Describing terminologies and discussing records: More discoveries of facultative vivipary in the genus Hedychium J.Koenig (Zingiberaceae) from Northeast India
The authors introduce the term facultative vivipary for the first time in gingers and elaborate on this reproductive strategy. Four new observations of facultative vivipary are reported in the genus Hedychium which were discovered during botanical explorations by the authors in Northeast India (NE India) over the past three years. The viviparous taxa are H. marginatum C.B.Clarke, H. speciosum var. gardnerianum (Ker Gawl.) Sanoj & M.Sabu (previously, H. gardnerianum Sheppard ex Ker Gawl.), H. thyrsiforme Buch.-Ham. ex Sm. and H. urophyllum G.Lodd. The authors also attempt to summarise the occurrence of vivipary in the family Zingiberaceae from published reports and to clarify a taxonomic misidentification in a previously known report of vivipary in Hedychium elatum.
["Facultative vivipary"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Cambodian History and Society", "Southeast Asian Sociopolitical Studies"]

The identity of Hypolepis robusta, as a new synonym of Hypolepis alpina (Dennstaedtiaceae), based on morphology and DNA barcoding and the new distribution
Based on field observations and examinations of herbarium specimens (including type material), consulting the original literature and molecular phylogenetic analysis of the rbcL and trnL-F sequences, it is concluded that Hypolepis robusta is conspecific with Hypolepis alpina and is here formally treated as a synonym of it. Additionally H. alpina is reported with new distribution records in Guangdong, Guangxi and the Hainan Island of China, respectively.
["Hypolepis"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Ophiorrhiza guizhouensis (Rubiaceae), a new species from Guizhou Province, southwestern China
In this study, Ophiorrhiza guizhouensis, a new species of Rubiaceae from south-western China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to O. japonica, but differs from the latter by having terete stems which are densely hirtellous, usually persistent ciliate stipules with well-developed colleters inside the base of the stipule, shorter corolla tubes and shorter stamens and styles.
["Ophiorrhiza"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Paraboea wenshanensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae from Yunnan, China
Paraboea wenshanensis is a new species of Gesneriaceae from Yunnan, China and is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically similar to P. angustifolia, P. martinii and P. glutinosa, but the congeners of this new taxon can be distinguished by several salient characters. A description of P. wenshanensis, together with illustrations and photographs, a distribution map and conservation assessment are presented.
["Limestone flora"]

A taxonomic study of Quercus langbianensis complex based on morphology and DNA barcodes of classic and next generation sequences
The taxonomy of Quercus langbianensis and its relatives in Vietnam and Cambodia have been revised based on evidence obtained from field observations, morphological comparison of herbarium specimens and molecular analyses using both classic and next generation DNA markers. Based on Bayesian inference using rbcL, matK and ITS regions and Neighbour-joining tree using genome-wide sequences amplified with multiplexed inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers (MIG-seq), the authors recognised ten species in the complex in Vietnam and Cambodia, three of which are newly described in this paper: Q. baolamensis sp. nov., Q. bidoupensis sp. nov. and Q. honbaensis sp. nov. These new species are all phenotypically similar to Q. langbianensiss. str. in having lanceolate to oblanceolate leaf shape, upper 4–5/6–serrated leaf margin, acute or acuminate leaf apex and bracts of cupule arranged in 5–9 rings but distinguished both morphologically and phylogenetically. In molecular phylogenetic reconstructions, Q. bidoupensis is not close to any other species. In the Bayesian tree, Q. honbaensis is sister to both Q. blaoensis and Q. camusiaethat are found in the same locality but morphologically distinct and those three species are sister to Q. langbianensiss. str., while Quercus baolamensis is not sister to Q. langbianensiss. str. in both the Bayesian tree and MIG-seq tree. In addition, Q. cambodiensis and Q. baniensis previously reduced to Q. langbianensiss. lat. have been recognised as distinct species. Six species were in need of lectotypification and that is undertaken herein.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A revision of the genus Protorthodes McDunnough with descriptions of a new genus and four new species (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Eriopygini)
The genus Protorthodes McDunnough is revised to include 15 species including P. ustulata Lafontaine, Walsh & Ferris, sp. n., from southwestern United States, P. texicana Lafontaine, sp. n., from Texas and Mexico, and P. mexicana Lafontaine, sp. n., from Mexico. A new genus, Nudorthodes Lafontaine, Walsh & Ferris, is proposed for two species formerly included in Protorthodes, P. texana (Smith, 1900), comb.n., and P. variabilis (Barnes & McDunnough, 1912), comb. n., and N. molino Lafontaine, Walsh & Ferris, sp. n., described from southern Arizona. A key to species, descriptions, illustrations of adults and genitalia, and distribution maps are included.

Taxonomy and biogeography of the Nearctic Raphia Hübner (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Raphiinae)
The taxonomic status and biogeography of the North American Raphia species is reviewed using adult morphology, larval host plants, geographic phenotypic variation, and variation of mtDNA COI barcode sequences. Lack of diagnostic morphological differences, combined with relatively low mtDNA barcode divergences and clinal phenotypic variation in key geographic regions indicate that the six previously recognized species of North American Raphia are best interpreted as parapatric subspecies. Raphia frater abrupta Grote, stat. n., R. f. coloradensis Putnam-Cramer, stat. r., R. f. piazzi Hill, stat. n., and R. f. elbea Smith, stat. n., are accordingly revised to subspecies of R. frater Grote. Type locality restrictions are provided for Raphia abrupta and Raphia frater and a neotype is designated for Raphia frater var. coloradensis.

The Disphragis notabilis (Schaus) species-group in Costa Rica (Lepidoptera, Notodontidae)
The four described taxa in the Disphragis notabilis (Schaus) species-group are reviewed, including the types and their dissected genitalia. Disphragis hemicera (Schaus), stat. rev., is elevated to species rank, D. normula (Dognin) is retained as a synonym of D. notabilis, D. sobolis Miller is confirmed as distinct from D. hemicera, and D. bifurcata sp. n., is newly described. Both D. hemicera and D. bifurcata occur in Costa Rica. The known ranges of the other species are outlined. Defining characters of each species are presented and a key to species is provided. Unusual variation in the genitalia is noted.

The Phyllodonta latrata (Guenée) species group in Costa Rica (Geometridae, Ennominae)
Historically, the name Phyllodonta latrata (Guenée) has been applied to what is a complex of three undescribed species in Costa Rica. They are very similar in maculation, but can be differentiated by genitalic characters and barcodes. P. alajuela Sullivan, sp. n. occurs at lower altitudes in the northwestern part of Costa Rica whereas P. intermediata Sullivan, sp. n. and P. esperanza Sullivan, sp. n. are found at partially overlapping altitudes in the central mountain ranges.
["Geometridae"]

The species of Thalerosphyrus Eaton, 1881 (Insecta, Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae, Ecdyonurinae) in Java and Sumatra, with some comments on the diversity of the genus in the Oriental Realm
Three species belonging to the genus Thalerosphyrus Eaton, 1881 are reported from Java and Sumatra. The nymphs of Th. determinatus (Walker, 1853) from Java, Th. sinuosus (Navás, 1933) from Java and Sumatra and Th. lamuriensis Sartori, 2014 from Sumatra are redescribed. The egg morphology of the three species is also presented for the first time. A key to the nymphs is proposed. General considerations on the composition of the genus Thalerosphyrus in the Oriental Realm are given. The distribution of the genus is greatly expended, and currently ranges over the Himalaya and Sumbawa in the Sunda Islands.
["Thalerosphyrus determinatus"]

Validation of Eustiromastix guianae (Caporiacco, 1954) (Araneae, Salticidae) with a first description of the female, and additions to the salticid fauna of French Guiana
In this paper, we validate the doubtful species status of E. guianae, with redescriptions of (supposedly lost) type and holotype males, and a first description of the female. Both sexes are measured and illustrated by pictures of habitus and copulatory organs. Seventeen new salticid species for French Guiana are also reported and a detailed catalogue of all salticid species from the Trinité National Nature Reserve is provided.

One new species of the Clubiona obesa-group from China, with the first description of Clubiona kropfi male (Araneae, Clubionidae)
The present paper describes two Clubiona obesa-group species: Clubiona bicuspidata sp. n. and the male Clubiona kropfi Zhang, Zhu & Song, 2003, which is described for the first time.
["Spiders"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Study of Mite Species"]

A new species of Diartiger Sharp (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Clavigeritae) from the Fengyangshan – Baishanzu Nature Reserve, East China
A new clavigerine pselaphine, Diartiger zhejiangensis Yin & Li, sp. n., from the Fengyangshan – Baishanzu Nature Reserve, southern Zhejiang, is described, illustrated, and compared with congeners. The species is hosted by ants in the genus Lasius. The key to Diartiger species from China is modified to accommodate the new species.

New data on the Paederus biacutus species group from mainland China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Paederus jianyueae Peng & Li, sp. n. (Zhejiang: Qingliangfeng) is described and illustrated. Additional records of P. biacutus Li, Zhou & Solodovnikov, 2014 and P. parvidenticulatus Li, Zhou & Solodovnikov, 2014 are reported..
["Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Typhlonesticus gocmeni sp. n., a new cave-dwelling blind spider species from the Aegean region of Turkey (Araneae, Nesticidae)
A new species of the troglobitic spider genus Typhlonesticus is described from specimens found in Keloğlan Cave (Denizli Province, Dodurgalar Town), Turkey. Typhlonesticus gocmeni sp. n. is described on the basis of both sexes; and its phylogenetic relationships with closely related European genera and species are discussed based on morphological and molecular data (the cox1, rrnL and H3 genes). Three new combinations are proposed: Typhlonesticus idriacus (Roewer, 1931), comb. n., Typhlonesticus morisii (Brignoli, 1975) comb. n. and Typhlonesticus obcaecatus (Simon, 1907), comb. n. all ex. Nesticus.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Genetics and shell morphometrics of assimineids (Mollusca, Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea) in the St Lucia Estuary, South Africa
The Assimineidae are a family of amphibious microgastropods that can be mostly found in estuaries and mangroves in South Africa. These snails often occur in great numbers and are ecologically important to the St Lucia Estuary, which forms a crucial part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Genetic and shell morphometric analyses were conducted on individuals collected from nine localities distributed from the northern lake regions to the southern lake and the mouth of the St Lucia estuarine lake. Mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (28S) DNA was used to construct Bayesian Inference, Neighbour-joining, Maximum Parsimony and Maximum Likelihood trees. Principal Component Analysis and Cluster Analysis were performed on standard shell parameter data. Results indicate that two different taxa are present in St Lucia. The taxon comprising individuals from the South Lake and St Lucia Estuary Mouth is identified as Assiminea cf. capensis Bartsch, in accordance with the latest taxonomic consensus. The taxon comprising assimineid individuals from False Bay, North Lake and South Lake, is here tentatively named “A.” aff. capensis (Sowerby). These two taxa exhibit patterns of spatial overlap that appear to vary depending on environmental parameters, particularly salinity. The need to resolve the complex taxonomy of assimineids is highlighted.
["Microgastropods"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Ecological Biogeography of the Terrestrial Nematodes of Victoria Land, Antarctica
The terrestrial ecosystems of Victoria Land, Antarctica are characteristically simple in terms of biological diversity and ecological functioning. Nematodes are the most commonly encountered and abundant metazoans of Victoria Land soils, yet little is known of their diversity and distribution. Herein we present a summary of the geographic distribution, habitats and ecology of the terrestrial nematodes of Victoria Land from published and unpublished sources. All Victoria Land nematodes are endemic to Antarctica, and many are common and widely distributed at landscape scales. However, at smaller spatial scales, populations can have patchy distributions, with the presence or absence of each species strongly influenced by specific habitat requirements. As the frequency of nematode introductions to Antarctica increases, and soil habitats are altered in response to climate change, our current understanding of the environmental parameters associated with the biogeography of Antarctic nematofauna will be crucial to monitoring and possibly mitigating changes to these unique soil ecosystems.
["Polar Research and Ecology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Environmental and Cultural Studies in Latin America and Beyond"]

The intertidal polychaete (Annelida) fauna of the Sitakunda coast (Chittagong, Bangladesh), with notes on the Capitellidae, Glyceridae, Lumbrineridae, Nephtyidae, Nereididae and Phyllodocidae of the “Northern Bay of Bengal Ecoregion”
Of seven species of polychaetous annelids collected from the intertidal zone of Sitakunda coast, Chittagong, Bangladesh, five were new records for the country. The seven are listed, with brief notes on these, some previously recorded species and others housed in the collections of the Natural History Museum, London. Keys are given to the recorded species of Phyllodocidae, Nereididae, Lumbrineridae, Nephtyidae and Capitellidae of the “Northern Bay of Bengal Ecoregion”, and to the recognised species of Glyceridae from the Bay of Bengal. The worms in this Ecoregion are subject to the outflows of the Irrawaddy, Ganges, Hooghly and Mahanadi Rivers, and many of them are known to be freshwater tolerant.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and environmental studies"]

A review of Cunaxidae (Acariformes, Trombidiformes): Histories and diagnoses of subfamilies and genera, keys to world species, and some new locality records
Cunaxidae are predaceous mites found in a variety of habitats. This work provides comprehensive keys to world subfamilies, genera, and species. Diagnoses and historical reviews are provided for subfamilies and genera.Cunaxa boneti, C. denmarki, C. exoterica, C. floridanus, C. lehmanae, C. lukoschusi, C. metzi, C. myabunderensis, C newyorkensis, C. rackae, C. reevesi, and C. reticulatus are moved to Rubroscirus and C. otiosus, C. valentis, and C. rasile are returned to Rubroscirus. Cunaxoides neopectinatus is moved to Pulaeus. Neocunaxoides pradhani and N. gilbertoi are transferred to Scutopalus. Pulaeus minutus and P. subterraneus are moved to Lupaeus. Pseudobonzia bakari, P. malookensis, and P. shamshadi are transferred to Neobonzia. Dactyloscirus bifidus is transferred to Armascirus.Scirula papillata is reported from the Western Hemisphere for the first time. Armascirus ozarkensis, A. primigenius, and Dactyloscirus dolichosetosus are reported from new localities.
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Judicial and Constitutional Studies"]

Diversity and altitudinal distribution of Chrysomelidae (Coleoptera) in Peregrina Canyon, Tamaulipas, Mexico
The Chrysomelidae (Coleoptera) is a highly speciose family that has been poorly studied at the regional level in Mexico. In the present study, we estimated species richness and diversity in oak-pine forest, Tamaulipan thorny scrub and in tropical deciduous forests in Peregrina Canyon within the Altas Cumbres Protected Area of the northeastern state of Tamaulipas, Mexico. Sampling of Chrysomelidae consisted of five sweep net samples (200 net sweeps) within each of three sites during four sample periods: early dry season, late dry season, early wet season, and late wet season. Species were identified and total numbers per species were recorded for each sample. A total of 2,226 specimens were collected belonging to six subfamilies, 81 genera and 157 species of Chrysomelidae from the study area. Galerucinae was the most abundant subfamily with 1,828 specimens, representing 82.1% of total abundance in the study area. Lower abundance was recorded in Cassidinae (8.5%), Eumolpinae (3.6%), Cryptocephalinae (2.2%), Chrysomelinae (2.2%), and finally Criocerinae (1.3%). The highest species richness was also presented in the subfamily Galerucinae with 49% of the total obtained species followed by Cassidinae (20%), Cryptocephalinae (9.7%), Eumolpinae (9.7%), Chrysomelinae (6.5%) and Criocerinae (5.2%). The most common species were Centralaphthona fulvipennis Jacoby (412 individuals), Centralaphthona diversa (Baly) (248), Margaridisa sp.1 (219), Acallepitrix sp.1 (134), Longitarsus sp.1 (104), Heterispa vinula (Erichson) (91), Epitrix sp.1 (84) and Chaetocnema sp.1 (72). Twenty-two species were doubletons (1.97% of total abundance) and 52 were singletons (2.33%). The estimated overall density value obtained was 0.0037 individuals/m2. The greatest abundance and density of individuals were recorded at the lowest elevation site. However, alpha diversity increased with increasing altitude. Similarity values were less than 50% among the three sites indicating that each site had distinct species assemblages of Chrysomelidae. The highest abundance was obtained during the late dry season, whereas diversity indices were highest during the early wet season. The present work represents the first report of the altitudinal variation in richness, abundance, and diversity of Chrysomelidae in Mexico. These results highlight the importance of conservation of this heterogeneous habitat and establish baseline data for Chrysomelidae richness and diversity for the region.
["Chrysomelidae"]

Carlota, a new genus of Agrypnini from the Valdivian Forests of Chile (Elateridae, Agrypninae, Agrypnini)
Carlota gen. n., with one included species C. coigue sp. n., is described and illustrated from the Valdivian forests of Chile. The relationships of this genus to other Agrypnini from Chile are discussed and generic key for Chilean Agrypninae genera is provided.

A new species of Zagrammosoma Ashmead (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) from Qinghai Province, China
The new species Zagrammosoma dulanense Cao & Zhu, sp. n., from Qinghai Province, China, is described and illustrated. All type specimens were reared from the pupae of Micrurapteryx sophorivora Kuznetzov & Tristan (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), a leafmining moth attacking the plant Thermopsis lanceolata R. Br. (Fabaceae). A key to the three known Asian species of Zagrammosoma is provided. All specimens are deposited in the Insect Collection, the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
["Eulophidae"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

Review of the Chinese species of the genus Varma Distant (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Tropiduchidae), with description of two new species
Two new species of Varma Distant, 1906, V. falcata Chang & Chen, sp. n. (China: Guizhou) and V. lobata Chang & Chen, sp. n. (China: Guizhou) are described and illustrated. The female genitalia of four speices including two known species are described and illustrated for the first time. The diagnostic characters of this genus are redefined. A checklist to the species of Varma in China is given. The Keys on male and female genitalia to the Chinese species of Varma are provided.

A new species of Dicranocentrus (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from China with comments on the systematic position of the genus
Dicranocentrus liuae sp. n. is described from the northern subtropical region of China. The new species is most similar to D. wangi Ma & Chen, 2007, but differs from it in the relatively shorter Ant. V, the 1+1 central macrochaetae on Abd. III, the number of chaetae on tenaculum, and the absence of dental spines. The systematic position of Dicranocentrus is also discussed. Present evidence, particularly S-chaetotaxy, indicates that the genus is closer to Heteromurus than to the unscaled species of Orchesella and Orchesellides.
["D. liuae sp. n."]

An unexpected clade of South American ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Bembidion)
Phylogenetic relationships of the Antiperyphanes Complex of the genus Bembidion are inferred using DNA sequences from seven genes (two nuclear ribosomal, four nuclear protein coding, and one mitochondrial protein coding). Redefined subgenera within the complex are each well-supported as monophyletic. Most striking was the discovery that a small set of morphologically and ecologically heterogeneous species formed a clade, here called subgenus Nothonepha. This unexpected result was corroborated by the discovery of deep pits in the lateral body wall (in the mesepisternum) of all Nothonepha, a trait unique within Bembidion. These pits are filled with a waxy substance in ethanol-preserved specimens. In one newly discovered species (Bembidion tetrapholeon sp. n., described here), these pits are so deep that their projections into the body cavity from the two sides touch each other internally. These structures in Bembidion (Nothonepha) are compared to very similar mesepisternal pits which have convergently evolved in two other groups of carabid beetles. The function of these thoracic pits is unknown. Most members of subgenus Nothonepha have in addition similar but smaller pits in the abdomen. A revised classification is proposed for the Antiperyphanes Complex.

Taxonomic review of Cratocerus Dejean, 1829 (Coleoptera, Carabidae) with description of six new species
A diagnosis of the South and Central American genus Cratocerus Dejean (Coleoptera: Carabidae) and a key to all species is provided. Eight species are recognized including six species that are newly described: Cratocerus sinesetosus sp. n. from French Guiana and Peru; Cratocerus multisetosus sp. n. from Costa Rica and Panama; Cratocerus tanyae sp. n. from Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico; Cratocerus indupalmensis sp. n. a species widely distributed throughout Central and South America; Cratocerus kavanaughi sp.n. from French Guiana and Peru; and Cratocerus culpepperi sp. n. from Peru. A lectotype for Cratocerus sulcatus Chaudoir is designated. Habitus images are provided along with illustrations and images of male genitalia, female genitalia, and diagnostic morphological characters.
["Pterostichinae"]

A new species of Tullbergia (Collembola, Tullbergiidae) from Buenos Aires, Argentina
A new species of Tullbergia from Argentina is described and illustrated; it is differentiated from Tullbergia paranensis by the number of vesicles of postantennal organ, pseudocelli shape and its formulae and the number of dorsal sensilla on Ant. IV. In addition a key for the identification of the members of the family from Argentina is included.

First record of the mygalomorph spider family Paratropididae (Arachnida, Araneae) in North America with the description of a new species of Paratropis Simon from Mexico, and with new ultramorphological data for the family
A new species of the genus Paratropis is described from North America: Paratropis tuxtlensis sp. n., from a tropical rainforest in Veracruz, Mexico. This is the fifth Paratropis and the tenth paratropidid species described and the first North American record of this Neotropical family. The species is described based on adult males and females, and juveniles. The juveniles show ontogenetic variation in the number of cuspules on the labium and endites, and in the number and position of leg trichobothria. This is the second Paratropis species, and the third paratropidid known from both sexes. The scanning electron photographs (SEM) reveal new morphological data and contribute to the knowledge of the family
["Mygalomorphae"]

Larvae and pupae of two North American darkling beetles (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Stenochiinae), Glyptotus cribratus LeConte and Cibdelis blaschkei Mannerheim, with notes on ecological and behavioural similarities
This study describes and illustrates the larvae and pupae of two North American darkling beetles (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) in the subfamily Stenochiinae, Glyptotus cribratus LeConte from the southeastern United States, and Cibdelis blaschkei Mannerheim from California. Both species inhabit forested regions where adults and larvae occur in soft rotten dry wood of dead branches on living trees or in sections recently fallen from them. Species identity was confirmed by rearing of adults and pupae and the discovery of both in pupal cells with associated exuvia. Specimen label data and notes on habitats are provided. Antipredator defense structures and behaviour are noted for larvae and pupae of both species.
["Antipredator defense"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

An unusual suite of sexual characters in three new species of Hymenorus (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Alleculinae) from Guatemala and Mexico
Two species, Hymenorus bifurcatus, and H. excavatus are described as new from Guatemala and the new species H. balli from both the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico and Guatemala. These three species are unique among the species of Hymenorus Mulsant, 1851 in the unusual and highly modified fifth ventrites of the male and the modified shape of the female ninth tergites. The unusual sexual characters of the males and females are illustrated with photographs. The usage of the generic names Hymenorus Mulsant versus Hymenophorus Mulsant is discussed.

New species and records of Charisius Champion from Mexico and Central America (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Alleculinae)
The species of the genus Charisius Champion, from Mexico and Central America are reviewed. The flightless genus Narses Champion, with one included species, N. subalatus Champion, is placed in synonymy with the genus Charisius. Four new species are described and illustrated, C. granulatus and C. punctatus (from Guatemala) and C. apterus and C. howdenorum (from Mexico). Charisius subalatus (Champion) is redescribed and illustrated. The species C. interstitialis Champion is placed in synonymy with C. zunilensis Champion. The genus is redescribed to include the four new species and N. subalatus. New distributional records are presented for all other species of the genus and a revised key is presented for identification of all the species of the genus.

Larvae of the genus Eleodes (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae): matrix-based descriptions, cladistic analysis, and key to late instars
Darkling beetle larvae (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) are collectively referred to as false wireworms. Larvae from several species in the genus Eleodes are considered to be agricultural pests, though relatively little work has been done to associate larvae with adults of the same species and only a handful of species have been characterized in their larval state.Morphological characters from late instar larvae were examined and coded to produce a matrix in the server-based content management system mx. The resulting morphology matrix was used to produce larval species descriptions, reconstruct a phylogeny, and build a key to the species included in the matrix.Larvae are described for the first time for the following 12 species: Eleodes anthracinus Blaisdell, Eleodes carbonarius (Say), Eleodes caudiferus LeConte, Eleodes extricatus (Say), Eleodes goryi Solier, Eleodes hispilabris (Say), Eleodes nigropilosus LeConte, Eleodes pilosus Horn, Eleodes subnitens LeConte, Eleodes tenuipes Casey, Eleodes tribulus Thomas, and Eleodes wheeleri Aalbu, Smith & Triplehorn. The larval stage of Eleodes armatus LeConte is redescribed with additional characters to differentiate it from the newly described congeneric larvae.
["Tenebrionidae"]

Integrative taxonomy of New Caledonian beetles: species delimitation and definition of the Uloma isoceroides species group (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Ulomini), with the description of four new species
New Caledonia is an important biodiversity hotspot with much undocumented biodiversity, especially in many insect groups. Here we used an integrative approach to explore species diversity in the tenebrionid genus Uloma (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Ulomini), which encompasses about 150 species, of which 22 are known from New Caledonia. To do so, we focused on a morphologically homogeneous group by comparing museum specimens with material collected during several recent field trips. We also conducted molecular phylogenetic analyses based on a concatenated matrix of four mitochondrial and three nuclear genes for 46 specimens. The morphological study allowed us to discover and describe four new species that belong to the group of interest, the Uloma isoceroides group. Molecular analyses confirmed the species boundaries of several of the previously described species and established the validity of the four new species. The phylogenetic analyses also provided additional information on the evolutionary history of the group, highlighting that a species that was thought to be unrelated to the group was in fact a member of the same evolutionary lineage. Molecular species delimitation confirmed the status of the sampled species of the group and also suggested some hidden (cryptic) biodiversity for at least two species of the group. Altogether this integrative taxonomic approach has allowed us to better define the boundaries of the Uloma isoceroides species group, which comprises at least 10 species: Uloma isoceroides (Fauvel, 1904), Uloma opacipennis (Fauvel, 1904), Uloma caledonica Kaszab, 1982, Uloma paniei Kaszab, 1982, Uloma monteithi Kaszab, 1986, Uloma robusta Kaszab, 1986, Uloma clamensae sp. n., Uloma condaminei sp. n., Uloma jourdani sp. n., and Uloma kergoati sp. n. We advocate more studies on other New Caledonian groups, as we expect that much undocumented biodiversity can be unveiled through the use of similar approaches.

Towards a revision of the South American genus Praocis Eschscholtz (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae), with estimation of the diversity of each subgenus
A review of the subgenera of the South American genus Praocis Eschscholtz (Pimeliinae: Praociini) is presented. Praocis comprises 77 species and 8 subspecies arranged in nine subgenera distributed in arid lands from Central Peru and Bolivia to the Southern part of Patagonia in Chile and Argentina. For each subgenus of Praocis: Praocis Eschscholtz, Mesopraocis Flores & Pizarro-Araya, subgen. n., Anthrasomus Guérin-Méneville, Filotarsus Gay & Solier, Postpraocis Flores & Pizarro-Araya, subgen. n., Hemipraocis Flores & Pizarro-Araya, subgen. n., Orthogonoderes Gay & Solier, Praonoda Flores & Pizarro-Araya, subgen. n., and Praocida Flores & Pizarro-Araya, subgen. n., we present a diagnosis using new and constant characters of adult morphology such as clypeal configuration, length and proportion of antennomeres 9, 10 and 11, arrangement of apical tomentose sensory patches on antennomeres 10 and 11, anterior margin of prosternum, lateral margin of elytron, ventral surface of profemora, and shape of protibiae. An identification key for the nine subgenera of Praocis is presented. Type species are designated for the five new subgenera; for Mesopraocis: Praocis calderana Kulzer, for Postpraocis: Praocis pentachorda Burmeister, for Hemipraocis: Praocis sellata Berg, for Praonoda: Praocis bicarinata Burmeister, for Praocida: Praocis zischkai Kulzer, and for the previously described subgenus Orthogonoderes: Praocis subreticulata Gay & Solier. The current number of species and the estimated number of species to be described are presented. The distribution ranges of the subgenera, including new records from collections and recent expeditions, are given. Habitat preferences and a discussion of the biogeography of the genus are also presented.

Review of the species of Paratenetus Spinola inhabiting America, north of Mexico (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae)
The North American (north of Mexico) species of the tenebrionid genus Paratenetus Spinola are reviewed and a key is presented for their identification. Five species are recognized, P. gibbipennis Motschulsky, P. fuscus LeConte, P. punctatus Spinola and two sp. n., P. exutus [type locality: Tabusintac, Nova Scotia] and P. texanus [type locality: Port Isabel, Cameron County, Texas]. Two syn. n. are proposed: P. cribratus Motschulsky, 1868 with P. gibbipennis Motschulsky, 1868 and P. crinitus Fall, 1907 with P. fuscus LeConte, 1850. A lectotype is selected for Paratenetus punctatus Spinola. A type species is designated for Storthephora Mäklin, 1875 (Storthephora denticollis Mäklin, 1875).

Two new Paraparatrechina (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) species from the Seychelles, with notes on the hypogaeic weissi species-group
Recent survey work in the Seychelles has revealed two new species of Paraparatrechina that are here described: P. illusio sp. n. and P. luminella sp. n. A revised key to the workers of Paraparatrechina for the Afrotropical and Malagasy regions is provided. The taxonomy of the hypogaeic weissi species-group is also reviewed in light of recent field collections. The species P. sordida is revived from synonymy and given new status (as a full species) and a discussion of the morphologically peculiar species-group is provided. With the description of the two species and the removal of another species from weissi synonomy there are now 16 Paraparatrechina species known from the Afrotropical and Malagasy regions.

Integrative revision of the giant pill-millipede genus Sphaeromimus from Madagascar, with the description of seven new species (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida, Arthrosphaeridae)
The Malagasy giant pill-millipede genus Sphaeromimus de Saussure & Zehntner, 1902 is revised. Seven new species, S. titanus sp. n., S. vatovavy sp. n., S. lavasoa sp. n., S. andohahela sp. n., S. ivohibe sp. n., S. saintelucei sp. n., and S. andrahomana sp. n. were discovered, in one case with the help of sequence data, in the rainforests of southeastern Madagascar. The species are described using light- and scanning electron microscopy. A key to all 10 species of the genus is presented. All but one (S. andohahela) of the newly discovered species are microendemics each occurring in isolated forest fragments. The mitochondrial COI barcoding gene was amplified and sequenced for 18 Sphaeromimus specimens, and a dataset containing COI sequences of 28 specimens representing all Sphaeromimus species (except S. vatovavy) was analyzed. All species are genetically monophyletic. Interspecific uncorrected genetic distances were moderate (4–10%) to high (18–25%), whereas intraspecific variation is low (0–­3.5%). Sequence data allowed the correct identification of three colour morphs of S. musicus, as well as the identity of a cave specimen, which although aberrant in its morphology and colouration, was genetically identical to the holotype of S. andrahoma.

Review of the millipede family Trichopolydesmidae in the Oriental realm (Diplopoda, Polydesmida), with descriptions of new genera and species
In the Oriental Region, the large, basically Northern Hemisphere family Trichopolydesmidae is shown to currently comprise 18 genera and 43 species. Based mainly on gonopod structure, all of them, as well as the whole family, are (re)diagnosed, including five new genera and seven new species. These new taxa are keyed, also being the first to be described from Indochina in general and from Vietnam in particular: Aporodesmella gen. n., with three species: A. securiformis sp. n. (the type species), A. similis sp. n. and A. tergalis sp. n., as well as the following four monotypic genera: Deharvengius gen. n., with D. bedosae sp.n., Gonatodesmus gen. n., with G. communicans sp. n., Helicodesmus gen. n., with H. anichkini sp.n., and Monstrodesmus gen. n., with M. flagellifer sp. n. In addition, Cocacolaria hauseri Hoffman, 1987, hitherto known only from New Ireland Island, Papua New Guinea, is redescribed based on material from Vanuatu whence it is recorded for the first time. One of the new genera, Gonatodesmus gen. n., provides a kind of transition or evolutionary bridge between Trichopolydesmidae and Opisotretidae, thus reinforcing the assignment of these two families to the single superfamily Trichopolydesmoidea.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

New light into the hormogastrid riddle: morphological and molecular description of Hormogaster joseantonioi sp. n. (Annelida, Clitellata, Hormogastridae)
The earthworm family Hormogastridae shows a remarkable disjunction in its distribution in the Iberian Peninsula, with the Hormogaster elisae species complex isolated from the rest of the species. Hormogaster joseantonioi sp. n., a new species found in the intermediate area between the main ranges (in Teruel, Aragón), was described following the integrative approach, as it is suitable for earthworms due to their highly homoplasic morphology. The phylogenetic analysis of the molecular markers placed the new species as a sister taxon to H. elisae, thus showing the colonizing lineage of Central Iberian Peninsula could have originated near the H. joseantonioi sp. n. current range. External morphological characters revealed some degree of overlap with previously described species, but internal characters presented configurations/states unknown from other members of the family. These traits make the new species a key piece to understand the evolution of Hormogastridae.
["Species description"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

The hyper-diverse ant genus Tetramorium Mayr (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in the Malagasy region ‑ taxonomic revision of the T. naganum, T. plesiarum, T. schaufussii, and T. severini species groups
The taxonomy of the Tetramorium naganum, T. plesiarum, T. schaufussii, and T. severini species groups are revised for the Malagasy region. A total of 31 species are treated, of which 22 are newly described and nine redescribed. This increases the richness of the hyper-diverse genus Tetramorium in the Malagasy region to 106 species, which makes it the most species-rich genus in the region. Twenty-nine of the treated species are endemic to Madagascar, one is endemic to the Comoros, and one species is found predominantly in Madagascar but also on the island of Reunion. The T. naganum species group contains five species, which are mainly distributed in the rainforests and montane rainforests of eastern and northern Madagascar: T. alperti sp. n., T. dalek sp. n., T. enkidu sp. n., T. gilgamesh sp. n., and T. naganum Bolton, 1979. The T.plesiarum species group holds five species: T. bressleri sp. n., T. hobbit sp. n., T. gollum sp. n., T. mars sp.n., and T. plesiarum Bolton, 1979. All five are arid-adapted species occurring in the southwest and west of Madagascar. The second-most species-rich group in the region is the T. schaufussii species group with 20 species, most of which inhabit rainforests or montane rainforests of eastern and northern Madagascar. This group includes two species complexes each containing ten species: the T. cognatum complex with the species T. aspis sp. n., T. camelliae sp. n., T. cognatum Bolton, 1979, T. freya sp. n., T. gladius sp. n., T.karthala sp. n., T. myrmidon sp. n., T. proximum Bolton, 1979, T. rumo sp. n., and T. tenuinode sp. n.; and the T. schaufussii complex with the species T. merina sp. n., T. monticola sp. n., T. nassonowii Forel, 1892 stat. n., T. obiwan sp. n., T. pseudogladius sp. n., T. rala sp. n., T. schaufussii Forel, 1891, T. sikorae Forel, 1892 (=T. latior (Santschi, 1926)), T. scutum sp. n., T. xanthogaster Santschi, 1911. The last group treated in this study is the T. severini species group, which contains only the species T. severini (Emery, 1895). This very conspicuous species is widely distributed in the rainforests and montane rainforests of eastern and northern Madagascar. All four groups are fully revised with group diagnoses, illustrated species-level identification keys, and detailed descriptions for all species that include multifocused montage images and distribution maps.
["Comoros"]

A new species of the genus Diplocentrus Peters, 1861 (Scorpiones, Diplocentridae) from Oaxaca, Mexico
A new species of the genus Diplocentrus Peters, 1861 is described, based on several specimens collected in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. It is characterized by a high telotarsal spiniform setae count (4-5/5:5/6:6/6:6/6-7), and the pectinal tooth counts of 12–15, mode = 13 (male) or 11–13, mode = 12 (female). With the description of this species, the diversity of the genus is increased to 51 species in Mexico.
["Scorpions"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

Revision of the genus Salganea Stål (Blattodea, Blaberidae, Panesthiinae) from China, with descriptions of three new species
Three new species of Salganea Stål, 1877 are described and illustrated: S. quinquedentata sp. n., S. anisodonta sp. n. and S. flexibilis sp. n. S. taiwanensis Roth, 1979, S. guangxiensis (Feng & Woo, 1990), S. incerta (Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893) and S. raggei Roth, 1979 are redescribed. Panesthia concinna Feng & Woo, 1990 is synonymized with S. taiwanensis Roth, 1979 and Panesthia guangxiensis Feng & Woo, 1990 is transferred to the genus Salganea for the first time. As well, a key to species from China is presented.

The Hoosier cavefish, a new and endangered species (Amblyopsidae, Amblyopsis) from the caves of southern Indiana
We describe a new species of amblyopsid cavefish (Percopsiformes: Amblyopsidae) in the genus Amblyopsis from subterranean habitats of southern Indiana, USA. The Hoosier Cavefish, Amblyopsis hoosieri sp. n., is distinguished from A. spelaea, its only congener, based on genetic, geographic, and morphological evidence. Several morphological features distinguish the new species, including a much plumper, Bibendum-like wrinkled body with rounded fins, and the absence of a premature stop codon in the gene rhodopsin. This is the first new cavefish species described from the United States in 40 years and exemplifies how molecular data can alert us to the presence of otherwise cryptic biodiversity.

Review of Canadian species of the genera Gnathusa Fenyes, Mniusa Mulsant & Rey and Ocyusa Kraatz (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Four species of Gnathusa Fenyes (G. alfacaribou Klimaszewski & Langor, G. caribou Lohse, G. eva Fenyes, and G. tenuicornis Fenyes) occur in the Nearctic and in Canada. Three species of Ocyusa Kraatz (O. asperula Casey, O. californica Bernhauer, O. canadensis Lohse), and three species of Mniusa Mulsant and Ray (M. minutissima (Klimaszewski & Langor), M. yukonensis (Klimaszewski & Godin), and M. odelli Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n.), are known from the Nearctic and all but O. californica occur in Canada. The recently described Gnathusa minutissima Klimaszewski and Langor and Ocyusa yukonensis Klimaszewski and Godin, are transferred here to the genus Mniusa Mulsant & Rey. New provincial and state records are reported for: G. eva (Alberta), G. tenuicornis (Alberta, Oregon, and New Brunswick), O. canadensis (New Brunswick and Newfoundland), M. minutissima (New Brunswick), and M. yukonensis (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, and British Columbia). The female of M. yukonensis was discovered and is illustrated for the first time. The genus Mniusa is reported for the first time from Canada and represents the first confirmed generic record for North America. Keys for identification of all Canadian species, images of body and genital structures, maps showing distribution mainly in Canada, and new bionomics data are provided.

Morphological and molecular affinities of two East Asian species of Stenhelia (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida)
Definition of monophyletic supraspecific units in the harpacticoid subfamily Stenheliinae Brady, 1880 has been considered problematic and hindered by the lack of molecular or morphology based phylogenies, as well as by incomplete original descriptions of many species. Presence of a modified seta on the fifth leg endopod has been suggested recently as a synapomorphy of eight species comprising the redefined genus Stenhelia Boeck, 1865, although its presence was not known in S. pubescens Chislenko, 1978. We redescribe this species in detail here, based on our freshly collected topotypes from the Russian Far East. The other species redescribed in this paper was collected from the southern coast of South Korea and identified as the Chinese S. taiae Mu & Huys, 2002, which represents its second record ever and the first one in Korea. A fragment of the mtCOI gene was successfully PCR-amplified from two specimens of each species, which represents the first molecular data for this genus, and from additional 19 specimens belonging to six different species of other stenheliins from Korea and Russia. Reconstructed phylogenies confirm previously postulated monophyly of Stenhelia and polyphyly of the closely related genus Delavalia Brady, 1869. Average pairwise maximum likelihood distances between S. pubescens and S. taiae are only slightly above 10%, suggesting a very close relationship despite numerous newly discovered micro-morphological differences and despite macro-morphological similarities being probable plesiomorphies.
["Miraciidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

The ant genus Tetramorium Mayr in the Afrotropical region (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae): synonymisation of Decamorium Forel under Tetramorium, and taxonomic revision of the T. decem species group
In this study we synonymise the genus Decamorium Forel under Tetramorium Mayr, revise the new T. decem species group by providing a diagnosis of the group, an illustrated identification key to species level, and worker-based species descriptions for all five species, which include diagnoses, discussions, images, and distribution maps. The following species are revised in this study: T. decem Forel, comb. r., T. raptor sp. n., T. uelense Santschi, comb. r., T. ultor Forel, comb. r., stat. r. & stat. n., and T. venator sp. n. In addition, we also designate lectotypes for T. decem, T. uelense, and T. ultor.

A new Pseudophoxinus (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) species from Asi River Drainage (Turkey)
Pseudophoxinus turani sp. n. is described from the İncesu Spring (Hassa-Hatay) drainage of Asi River, Turkey. It is distinguished from other Eastern Mediterranean Region Pseudophoxinus species by a combination of characters: lateral line incomplete, with 12–25 (commonly 16–21) perforated scales and 38–46+2-3 scales in lateral series (commonly 41–44 +2-3); 10–11 scale rows between the lateral line and dorsal-fin origin; 3–4 scale rows between the lateral line and the pelvic–fin origin; dorsal fin with 7½ branched rays; anal fin commonly with 7½ branched rays; 8-11gill rakers on the first branchial arch; dorsal profile markedly convex with marked hump at the nape, ventral profile less convex than dorsal profile; a small, irregular, black blotch on the base of the caudal fin; mouth terminal, with slightly distinct chin, its corner not reaching vertical through anterior margin of eye; snout somewhat long, with rounded tip; and its length greater than eye diameter.

Four new Mouse Spider species (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Actinopodidae, Missulena) from Western Australia
Four new species of the Mouse Spider genus Missulena Walckenaer, 1805 (family Actinopodidae) are described from Western Australia based on morphological features of adult males. Missulena leniae sp. n. (from the Carnarvon and Yalgoo biogeographic regions), Missulena mainae sp. n. (Carnarvon), Missulena melissae sp. n. (Pilbara) and Missulena pinguipes sp. n. (Mallee) represent a broad spectrum of morphological diversity found in this genus and differ from other congeners by details of the male copulatory bulb, colour patterns, eye sizes, leg morphology and leg spination. Two of the species, M. pinguipes sp. n. and M. mainae sp. n., are characterised by swollen metatarsi of the fourth legs in males, a feature not previously recorded in the family. A key to males of all named Missulena species from Australia is presented and allows their identification based on external morphology.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A new species of Alopoglossus lizard (Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) from the tropical Andes, with a molecular phylogeny of the genus
We describe a new species of Alopoglossus from the Pacific slopes of the Andes in northern Ecuador based on morphological and molecular evidence. The new species differs most significantly from all other congeners ina double longitudinal row of widened gular scales, lanceolate dorsal scales in transverse rows, 29–32 dorsal scales in a transverse row at midbody, and 4 longitudinal rows of ventrals at midbody. It is most similar in morphology to A. festae, the only species of Alopoglossus currently recognized in western Ecuador. We analyze the phylogenetic relationships among species of Alopoglossus based on the mitochondrial gene ND4. Cis-Andean [east of the Andes] and Trans-Andean [west of the Andes] species are nested in two separate clades, suggesting that the uplift of these mountains had an important effect in the diversification of Alopoglossus. In addition, we present an updated key to the species of Alopoglossus.
["Alopoglossus"]

Taxonomic notes on the genus Eupoa Żabka, 1985 (Arachnida, Araneae, Salticidae)
The south-east Asian genus Eupoa is redescribed and diagnosed. Seven new species are diagnosed, described and illustrated: E. daklak sp. n. (♀) from Viet-Nam; E. lehtineni sp. n. (♂♀) from India, Thailand and Viet-Nam; E. lobli sp. n. (♂) from Malaysia; E. pappi sp. n. (♂) from Thailand; E. pulchella sp. n. (♂) from Thailand; E. schwendingeri sp. n. (♂♀) from Thailand; and E. thailandica sp. n. (♂♀) from Thailand. Eupoa prima Żabka, 1985 and E. yunnanensis Peng & Kim, 1997 are redescribed and illustrated on the basis of type and/or newly collected materials. The female of E. yunnanensis Peng & Kim, 1997 is found and described for the first time.
["SE Asia"]

Calcaridorylaimus castaneae sp. n. (Nematoda, Dorylaimidae) from Bulgaria with an identification key to the species of the genus
An unknown species belonging to the genus Calcaridorylaimus Andrássy, 1986 was collected from the litter of broadleaf forests dominated by Castanea sativa Mill. and mixed with Quercus daleshampii Ten. and Fagus sylvatica L. on Belasitsa Mountain, south-western Bulgaria. Calcaridorylaimus castaneae sp. n. is characterised by its long body (1.4–2.1 mm), lip region practically not offset, vulva transverse, short odontostyle (14.5–16 µm) and tail (75.5–110.5 µm, c=14.7–23.6; c’=2.9–4.4) in females and 38–46 µm long spicules with small spur before their distant end in males. It is most similar to C. andrassyi Ahmad & Shaheen, 2004, but differs intransverse vs pore-like vulva and shorter spicules (38–46 µm vs 52–57 µm). An identification key to the species of the genus Calcaridorylaimus is proposed. Phylogenetic analyses were performed on 18S and D2-D3 expansion domains of 28S rRNA genes by Neighbor-Joining, Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods. The phylograms inferred from 18S sequences showed closest relationships of the new species with some species belonging to the genus Mesodorylaimus. However, insufficient molecular data for members of both genera do not allow the phylogenetic relationships of Calcaridorylaimus and the new species described herein to be elucidated.

A review of the microgastropod genus Systenostoma Bavay & Dautzenberg, 1908 and a new subterranean species from China (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Hypselostomatidae)
A review of the microgastropod genus Systenostoma is provided. Thai and Malaysian species are transferred to a new genus, Angustopila (type species: Systenostoma tamlod Panha & Burch 1999). A new subterranean Angustopila species is described here. Conchologically, the new species is most similar to the cave-dwelling, Thai A. tamlod (Panha & Burch, 1999). One Thai species (Systenostoma edentata) is transferred to the genus Hypselostoma. Vietnamese members remain in the genus Tonkinospira (nomen novum) for Systenostoma Bavay & Dautzenberg 1908 (non Systenostoma Marsson 1887). A comprehensive map of former Systenostoma species is presented. SEM and NanoCT images, including a video of A. huoyani sp. n. internal shell morphology, provide novel perspectives of the shells of Angustopila and of the scarcely known Vietnamese Tonkinospira species. The biology of these snails is not yet known but collection localities suggest a troglophilic ecology.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species of Dystacta Saussure, 1871 from Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda (Insecta, Mantodea, Dystactinae)
A recent targeted entomological survey in the Republic of Rwanda has produced two conspecific male and female specimens of an undescribed species of praying mantis (Mantodea). The specimens were collected in Nyungwe National Park in May of 2013. The species is closest morphologically to Dystacta alticeps (Schaum, 1853). Therefore, a new species is described, Dystacta tigrifrutex sp. n., along with the first instar nymphs and ootheca. In addition, the previously monotypic genus Dystacta Saussure, 1871 is re-described to provide a broader definition of the genus group. Habitus images, measurement data, a key to species, natural history information, and locality data are provided.
["Mantodea"]

A new species of Dysanabatium Bernhauer and additional records of D. jacobsoni Bernhauer (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Dysanabatium hainanense Peng & Li, sp. n. (Hainan: Wuzhi Shan, Diaoluo Shan) is described and illustrated. Additional records of D. jacobsoni Bernhauer, 1915 are reported. The habitus, the sexual characters, and the distribution of this enormously variable species are illustrated.

A new Liopropoma sea bass (Serranidae, Epinephelinae, Liopropomini) from deep reefs off Curaçao, southern Caribbean, with comments on depth distributions of western Atlantic liopropomins
Collecting reef-fish specimens using a manned submersible diving to 300 m off Curaçao, southern Caribbean, is resulting in the discovery of numerous new fish species. The new Liopropoma sea bass described here differs from other western Atlantic members of the genus inVIII, 13 dorsal-fin rays; a moderately indented dorsal-fin margin; a yellow-orange stripe along the entire upper lip; a series of approximately 13 white, chevron-shaped markings on the ventral portion of the trunk; and a reddish-black blotch on the tip of the lower caudal-fin lobe. The new species, with predominantly yellow body and fins, closely resembles the other two “golden basses” found together with it at Curaçao: L. aberrans and L. olneyi. It also shares morphological features with the other western Atlantic liopropomin genus, Bathyanthias. Preliminary phylogenetic data suggest that western Atlantic liopropomins, including Bathyanthias, are monophyletic with respect to Indo-Pacific Liopropoma, and that Bathyanthias is nested within Liopropoma, indicating a need for further study of the generic limits of Liopropoma. The phylogenetic data also suggest that western Atlantic liopropomins comprise three monophyletic clades that have overlapping depth distributions but different depth maxima (3–135 m, 30–150 m, 133–411 m). The new species has the deepest depth range (182–241 m) of any known western Atlantic Liopropoma species. Both allopatric and depth-mediated ecological speciation may have contributed to the evolution of western Atlantic Liopropomini.
["Liopropoma aberrans"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

The South American radiation of Jerrybuccinum (Gastropoda, Buccinidae), with a new
deep-water species from Chile
A new deep water species from off the Chilean coast, Jerrybuccinum kantori sp. n., is described. The animal is equipped with a large statocyst. Kryptos explorator Fraussen & Sellanes, 2008 from off Concepción is found to be congeneric and transferred to the genus Jerrybuccinum. Differences in size and sculpture serve to distinguish the new species from J. explorator. Both Chilean species are associated with methane seep or low oxygen environments. They are compared with J. malvinense Kantor & Pastorino, 2009 and two still unnamed species from the Falkland Plateau.
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

Supplement to the revision of the genus Eremosaprinus Ross, 1939 (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Saprininae): new distributional data and description of a new species from Arizona, U.S.A.
A new species of the genus Eremosaprinus Ross, 1939, E. warneri, is described from southeastern Arizona, USA, and incorporated into the identification key for the genus. Description of the new species is supplemented with SEM micrographs and drawings of sensory structures of the antenna and male genitalia. New distribution data on four species, E. distinctus Lundgren, 1992, E. hubbardi (Wenzel, 1939), E.minimus Tishechkin & Lackner, 2012, and E. unguiculatus (Ross, 1939), are also provided.
["Eremosaprinus warneri"]

Reevaluation of the odd chrysidid genus Atoposega Krombein (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae, Amiseginae)
The south Asian amisegine genus Atoposega Krombein, 1957, is reevaluated. Three new species, A. rufithorax, A. striata and A. thailandica are described from Thailand and the previously described species, A. lineata (Krombein, 1957) from Borneo, A. rieki (Krombein, 1957) from Myanmar and A. simulans Kimsey, 1986 from Malaysia are redescribed. The species, A. decorata Kimsey, 1995, was found to lack the generic characters diagnostic for Atoposega. Atoposega is only known from females.
["Mahinda"]

Description of Medwayella independencia (Siphonaptera, Stivaliidae), a new species of flea from Mindanao Island, the Philippines and their phoretic mites, and miscellaneous flea records from the Malay Archipelago
Medwayella independencia, a new species of flea, is described from the tupaiid host Urogale everetti (Thomas) from Mindanao Island, Philippines. Several other species of fleas are also recorded from the Philippines including a single male of Lentistivalius philippinensis Hastriter & Bush, 2013 (previously known only from two males), the bat fleas Thaumapsylla breviceps orientalis Smit and Thaumapsylla longiforceps Traub, a single unidentified female species of Macrostylophora Ewing collected from the murid Bullimus bagobos Mearns, and a pair of Medwayella robinsoni ssp. from Sundasciurus hoogstraali (Sanborn) from Busuanga Island, Philippines. Representatives of Medwayella Traub, 1972 and Macrostylophora have not previously been recorded from the Philippines. A key to the male sex of Medwayella is provided. Phoretic mites of the genus Psylloglyphus (family Winterschmidtiidae) were present under the abdominal sclerites of several male and female specimens of M. independencia. This is the second report of a phoretic mite on a species of Medwayella Traub. The co-evolutionary implications between phoretic mites and fleas are discussed.
["Bat fleas"]
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

New tardigrade records for the Baltic states with a description of Minibiotus formosus sp. n. (Eutardigrada, Macrobiotidae)
In sixteen moss, lichen and mixed (moss/lichen) samples, collected from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, 291 specimens, 48 simplexes, including one exuvium with 6 eggs, and 8 free-laid eggs of eutardigrades were found. In total, 17 species, together with one new to science, were identified (all are new records for the Baltic states): Astatumen bartosi, Diphascon (Adropion) prorsirostre, D. (Diphascon) bullatum, D. (D.) pingue pingue, D. (D.) recamieri, D. (D.) rugosum, Hypsibius convergens, H. dujardini, H. cf. scabropygus, Isohypsibius ronsisvallei, I. sattleri, Macrobiotus harmsworthi harmsworthi, M. hufelandi hufelandi, Milnesium asiaticum, Milnesium tardigradum tardigradum, Minibiotus formosus sp. n. and Paramacrobiotus richtersi. The new species is most similar to Minibiotus gumersindoi, but differs from it mainly by the presence of two types of cuticular pores, the absence of a triangular or pentagonal arrangement of pores above a single large pore on legs, the presence of granulation on all legs and a different macroplacoid length sequence. In this paper we also provide photographs and morphometrics of H. cf. scabropygus.
["Estonia"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Planetary Science and Exploration"]

A peculiar cave species of Tomocerus (Collembola, Tomoceridae, Tomocerinae) from Vietnam, with a discussion of the postantennal organ and prelabral chaetae in Tomocerinae
The first Tomocerus species with a postantennal organ (PAO) in the adult stage is described from Vietnam. Tomocerus postantennalis sp. n. differs from the other PAO-possessing tomocerid, Tomolonus reductus Mills, 1948, mainly in the morphology of PAO, the number of ocelli, the number of chaetae in trochantero-femoral organ and several features of the furca. The new species is placed in Tomocerus because of the presence of a toothlet on the outer basal mucronal tooth and the absence of the diagnostic character states of Plutomurus Yosii, 1956 and Aphaenomurus Yosii, 1956. Besides the presence of PAO, the new species is peculiar insix prelabral chaetae, instead of four as in other Tomocerus species. The new species is similar to Tomocerus folsomi Denis, 1929 and Tomocerus ocreatus Denis, 1948 in the type of dental spines but different from them in the body colour, the relative length of antennae to body, the number of unguis inner teeth and the number of mucronal intermediate teeth.

Umashtanchaeviella plethotricha, a new genus and species of the family Tetracondylidae (Acari, Oribatida)
A new genus of oribatid mites of the family Tetracondylidae, Umashtanchaeviella gen. n., with type species Umashtanchaeviella plethotricha sp. n., is proposed and described from forest litter, the Bu Gia Map National Park, southern Vietnam. The new genus is distinguishable from other otocepheoid genera by the presence of notogastral plethotrichy.
["Oribatida"]

Three new bamboo-feeding species of the genus Symplanella Fennah (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Caliscelidae) from China
Three new species of the Oriental caliscelid planthopper genus Symplanella Fennah, S. hainanensis sp. n., S. recurvata sp. n. and S. zhongtua sp. n., are described and illustrated from South China. A checklist and a key to species of genus Symplanella are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis"]

Melitid amphipods from the Gulf of Thailand, with a description of Dulichiella pattaniensis, a new species
Two species of melitid amphipod were collected from the Gulf of Thailand. Dulichiella pattaniensis is new to science, and Melitalati latiflagella Ren & Andres, 2012 has not been previously reported from Thai Waters. Dulichiella pattaniensis is characterized by male gnathopod 2 distolateral crown with 4 spines; pleonite/urosomite formula 7-7-7-5-6-2; pereopod 5-7 dactylus with 2 accessory spines. This combination of characters has not been recorded previously in the Dulichiella. The characters of the specimens are described and illustrated. All specimens are deposited in the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Inventory of the carabid beetle fauna of the Gaoligong Mountains, western Yunnan Province, China: species of the tribe Zabrini (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
A ten-year multidisciplinary, multi-national and multi-institutional biodiversity inventory project in the Gaoligong Shan region of western Yunnan Province, China generated more than 35,000 specimens of the beetle (Coleoptera) family Carabidae. In this report, first of a planned series, we focus on diversity in tribe Zabrini. Our study of just over 1300 specimens of zabrine carabids from the project, all in genus Amara Bonelli, found a total of 13 species, all previously described, to occur in the study area, with none of them strictly endemic. We present a key for identification of adults of these species, as well as nomenclatural data, diagnoses, illustrations of dorsal habitus and male genitalia, and information about geographical, altitudinal and habitat distributions within the study area and overall geographical distribution for each species. Distributions of the species within the study area are compared, and broader geographical range patterns are characterized. We also discuss a possible role of the Gaoligong Shan region as one source area for the present-day fauna of the Himalaya and southern edge of the Qinghai-Xizang (Tibetan) Plateau.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

The genus Omalus Panzer, 1801 (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae) from China, with descriptions of four new species
The Chinese species of the genus Omalus Panzer, 1801 are revised and keyed for the first time. Eight species are recorded, of which four are new to science and one is new to China: Omalus aeneus (Fabricius, 1787), Omalus berezovskii (Semenov-Tian-Shanskij, 1932), Omalus potanini (Semenov-Tian-Shanskij, 1932), Omalus imbecillus (Mocsáry, 1889) (new to China), Omalus helanshanus sp. n., Omalus probiaccinctus sp.n., Omalus pseudoimbecillus sp. n., and Omalus tibetanus sp. n.
["Chrysididae"]

A new species of shrimp of the genus Anachlorocurtis Hayashi, 1975 from the Red Sea, with range extension of A. commensalis Hayashi, 1975 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Pandalidae)
A new species of pandalid shrimp Anachlorocurtis occidentalis sp. n., associated with antipatharian corals, is described and illustrated from the north-eastern Red Sea. This new species is closely related to Anachlorocurtis commensalis Hayashi, 1975, the only other species in the genus, and can be distinguished by the more slender body and appendages; the carapace with 3 large, and one small, subtriangular lobes in the middorsal line; a flattened dorsal outline of the third abdominal segment; the sixth abdominal segment twice as long as fifth one; propodi of the ambulatory pereiopods bearing only a single posterior spinule; and harbouring 3–5 pairs of dorsolateral spines on the telson. A revised generic diagnosis is provided here to accommodate the present new species. The genetic divergence of mitochondrial gene cytochrome coxidase subunit I (COI) between Anachlorocurtis occidentalis sp. n., and A. commensalis is 15.2–15.4%. Molecular analysis also confirmed a sister position of the genus Anachlorocurtis to Miropandalus. The present records of A.commensalis from Taiwan constitute an extension of the known range of the species.
["Caridea"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Ophiuroidea (Echinodermata) from coral reefs in the Mexican Pacific
There are numerous and important coral reefs in the Mexican Pacific, but scarce studies of brittle stars conducted in these ecosystems. In this regard, this work provides the first annotated checklist of brittle stars associated with coral communities and reefs in the Mexican Pacific and an illustrated key to identify the species. We also provide taxonomic descriptions, spatial and bathymetric distributions and some important remarks of the species. We report a total of 14 species of brittle stars belonging to nine genera and seven families. Ophiocnida hispida in Jalisco, Ophiophragmus papillatus in Guerrero, and Ophiothrix (Ophiothrix) spiculata and Ophiactis simplex in Colima are new distribution records. The record of O. papillatus is remarkable because the species has not been reported since its description in 1940. The brittle stars collected in this study, represent 22.2% of the total species previously reported from the Mexican Pacific. Presently, anthropogenic activities on the coral reefs of the Mexican Pacific have increased, thus the biodiversity of brittle stars in these ecosystems may be threatened.
["Brittle stars"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Three new species of eriophyoid mites (Acari, Eriophyoidea) associated with Lauraceae in China
In this paper, three new species of eriophyoid mites in the family Eriophyidae associated with Phoebe hunanensis Hand.–Mazz. (Lauraceae), namely Gammaphytoptus striatilobus sp. n., Phyllocoptes setalsolenidion sp. n., and Dechela phoebe sp. n. are described and illustrated. All are vagrants causing no apparent damage to the same host plants.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Taxonomy of the Colocasiomyia gigantea species group (Diptera, Drosophilidae), with descriptions
of four new species from Yunnan, China
Species of the genus Colocasiomyia de Meijere feed/breed on inflorescences/infructescences of the plants from the families Araceae, Arecaceae and Magnoliaceae. Although most of them utilize plants from the subfamily Aroideae of Araceae, three species of the recently established C. gigantea species group make use of plants of the subfamily Monsteroideae. We describe four new species of the gigantea group found from Yunnan, China: Colocasiomyia longifilamentata Li & Gao, sp. n., C. longivalva Li & Gao, sp. n., C. hailini Li & Gao, sp. n., and C. yini Li & Gao, sp. n. The species delimitation is proved in virtue of not only morphology but also DNA barcodes, i.e., sequences of the partial mitochondrial COI (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) gene. Some nucleotide sites with fixed status in the alignment of the COI sequences (658 sites in length) are used as “pure” molecular diagnostic characters to delineate species in the gigantea group.
["Adaptation"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

The re-discovered Maculinea rebeli (Hirschke, 1904): Host ant usage, parasitoid and initial food plant around the type locality with taxonomical aspects (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae)
The taxonomy of the myrmecophilous Maculinea alcon group (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) is highly debated. The host-plant and host-ant usage of these butterflies have conventionally been important in their identification. Maculinea ‘rebeli’ has generally been considered to be the xerophilous form of Ma. alcon (Ma. alcon X hereafter) with Gentiana cruciata as initial food plant. However, the type locality and all other known sites of Ma. rebeli are found above the coniferous zone, and are well separated from the lower regions where Ma. alcon X sites are found. Furthermore, no food plant and host ant data for the nominotypic Ma. rebeli have yet been published. Our aim was therefore to identify the host ant(s) of Ma. rebeli around the type locality and compare this with the host ant usage of nearby Ma. alcon X. Nests of Myrmica spp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) close to the host plants were opened on one Ma. alcon X (host plant: Gentiana cruciata) and two Ma. rebeli (host plant: Gentianella rhaetica, first record, confirmed by oviposition and emerging larvae) sites just before the flying period, to find prepupal larvae and pupae. Three Myrmica species (My. lobulicornis, My. ruginodis, My. sulcinodis) were found on the two Ma. rebeli sites, which parasitized exclusively My. sulcinodis (22 individuals in 7 nests). On the Ma. alcon X site Myrmica sabuleti and My. lonae were found, with My. sabuleti the exclusive host (51 individuals in 10 nests). Ichneumon cf. eumerus parasitized both butterflies. The results highlight the differentiation of Maculinea rebeli from Ma. alcon X, from both conservation biological and ecological points of view. Thus, it should be concluded that Ma. rebeli does not simply represent an individual form of Ma. alcon but it can be considered as at least an ecological form adapted to high mountain conditions both in its initial food plant and host ant species. In addition, it should be emphasized that Ma. alcon X (= Ma. rebeli auct. nec Hirschke) cannot be synonymised with Ma. rebeli (Hirschke, 1904).
["Styrian Alps"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New species of the Pseudancistrus barbatus group (Siluriformes, Loricariidae) with comments on its biogeography and dispersal routes
A new species of Pseudancistrus is described from the Tapajós Basin, and assigned to the P. barbatus group byhypertrophied odontodes along the snout and lacking evertible cheek plates. The new species is distinguished from other species in that group (P. barbatus, P. corantijniensis, P. depressus and P. nigrescens) by its pattern of spots, length and color of snout odontodes, greater head depth, cleithral width, anal-fin spine length, peduncle depth and internares width. Molecular phylogenetic results corroborate placement of the new species in the Pseudancistrus barbatus group which is otherwise distributed in the Xingu Basin and rivers draining the Guyana Shield into the Atlantic Ocean. Topology tests strongly reject alternative hypotheses supporting close relationships with Guyanancistrus, Lithoxancistrus or the species Pseudancistrus pectegenitor, P. sidereus and P. genisetiger. Additionally, we propose two hypotheses on the distribution of the new species in the rio Tapajós, a Brazilian Shield drainage. The first one proposes that ancestral stock of the P. barbatus group was widely distributed throughout rivers draining the Guyana and Brazilian shields, and the species P. zawadzkii and Pseudancistrus sp. L17 are in the limit of the distribution for the group in Tapajós and Xingu rivers. The second hypothesis proposes that ancestral stock of the P. barbatus group was restricted to Guyana Shield rivers, and that headwater capture events permitted several dispersal routs through Guyana and Amazon rivers, permitted that the ancestral lineages of Pseudancistrus sp. L17 and P. zawadzkii reached the rivers of Amazon basin.

Revision of the genus Paridea Baly, 1886 from Taiwan (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae)
The Taiwanese species of the genus Paridea Baly, 1886, are revised. Two new species, Paridea (Semacia) houjayi sp. n. and P. (S.) kaoi sp. n. are described. Both were confused previously with P. (S.) sexmaculata (Laboissière, 1930) and P. (S.) angulicollis (Motschulsky, 1854) respectively. Paridea (P.) sauteri (Chûjô, 1935) and P. (P.) taiwana (Chûjô, 1935) are removed from synonymy with P. (P.) sinensis Laboissière, 1930. The synonymy of Paraulaca flavipennis Chûjô, 1935 with Paridea (Paridea) testacea Gressitt & Kimoto, 1963 is supported. Paridea (Semacia) nigrimarginata Yang, 1991 is regarded as a junior synonym of P. (S.) angulicollis and excluded from the Taiwan fauna. Lectotypes are designated for Paraulaca costata Chûjô, 1935, P. flavipennis Chûjô, 1935, P. taiwana Chûjô, 1935, Semacia nipponensis Laboissière, 1930, and Paridea sinensis Laboissière, 1930.
["Paridea"]

Twenty-four new species of Aleiodes Wesmael from the eastern Andes of Ecuador with associated biological information (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Rogadinae)
Aleiodes Wesmael is the most diverse rogadine genus worldwide, with specialized koinobiont endoparasitic development in Lepidoptera caterpillars resulting in mummification of the host remains. This paper focuses on describing new Aleiodes species from the Yanayacu Biological Station, with special interest in those with biological information. We describe 24 new species (Aleiodes albidactyl sp. n., Aleiodes albigena sp. n., Aleiodes albiviria sp. n., Aleiodes bimaculatus sp. n., Aleiodes cacuangoi sp. n., Aleiodes colberti sp.n., Aleiodes delicatus sp. n., Aleiodes dyeri sp. n., Aleiodes elleni sp. n., Aleiodes falloni sp. n., Aleiodes frosti sp.n., Aleiodes kingmani sp. n., Aleiodes longikeros sp. n., Aleiodes luteosicarius sp. n., Aleiodes marilynae sp. n., Aleiodes mirandae sp. n., Aleiodes napo sp. n., Aleiodes nubicola sp. n., Aleiodes onyx sp. n., Aleiodes shakirae sp. n., Aleiodes stewarti sp. n., Aleiodes townsendi sp. n., Aleiodes tzantza sp. n., and Aleiodes yanayacu sp.n.) from Napo Province in Ecuador, 16 of which were reared from host caterpillars. With these results 89 species of Neotropical Aleiodes are now known, with 41 of themhost records. The most commonly reared species were in the circumscriptus/gastritor species-group, and mostly associated with Geometridae hosts (six of ten species). Three species of seriatus species-group, in contrast, were each reared from a different family. One of these species (i.e. A. frosti sp. n.), reared from Notodontidae, cuts a posterior radial opening in the mummy for emergence, a unique behavior in Aleiodes, recorded here for the first time. A. luteosicarius sp. n. is the first described species from Ecuador in the pallidator species-group. Differing from previously described pallidator species, which attack only Lymantriinae larvae, A. luteosicarius sp. n. attacks several species of Arctiinae larvae, being both subfamilies within Erebidae with densely setose caterpillars. We also describe new species of the gressitti and pulchripes species-groups.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Three new species of Melloleitaoina Gerschman and Schiapelli, 1960 (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Theraphosidae) from northern Argentina
Three new species of the monotypic genus Melloleitaoina Gerschman & Schiapelli, 1960 are described from northern Argentina: M. mutquina sp. n., M. uru sp. n. and M. yupanqui sp. n. The female specimen originally described as M. crassifemur is not conspecific with the male holotype and thus is removed from this species and described as M. uru sp. n.; M. crassifemur is redescribed. All species are diagnosed, illustrated and a key to species is provided.
["Tarantula"]

Revision of the Australasian genus Pseudidarnes Girault, 1927 (Hymenoptera, Agaonidae, Sycophaginae)
The species of Pseudidarnes are revised, and six species are described: P. acaudus Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; P. astridae Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; P. badiogeminus Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; P. cooki Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; P. kjellbergi Farache & Rasplus, sp. n.; P. laevis Farache & Rasplus, sp. n. Pseudidarnes minerva Girault, 1927 and P. flavicollis Bouček, 1988 are redescribed. A key to the species is provided as well as illustrations for all females and all known males (except the wingless male of P. minerva). We also provided further discussion on ecology, morphological patterns, and host taxonomy. Online dichotomous and multi-access interactive LUCID keys to all Pseudidarnes species are available at http://www.figweb.org/.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

First records of Cotylea (Polycladida, Platyhelminthes) for the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula
A study of polyclad fauna of the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula was carried out from 2010 to 2013. The paper reports nine new records belonging to three Cotylean families: the family Euryleptidae Lang, 1884, Pseudocerotidae Lang, 1884 and the family Prosthiostomidae Lang, 1884, and describes one new species, Euryleptodes galikias sp. n.
["Euryleptidae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation"]

The genus Scaphidium Olivier in East China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scaphidiinae)
A review of 21 species of Scaphidium Olivier from East China is presented, including 6 new species: S. jinmingi sp. n. (Zhejiang, Anhui, Chongqing), S. crypticum sp. n.(Zhejiang, Fujian, Jiangxi, Guangxi), S. varifasciatum sp. n. (Zhejiang, An’hui), S. robustum sp. n. (Fujian, Guizhou, Chongqing, Guangxi, Yunnan), S. connexum sp. n. (Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangxi), and S. bayibini sp. n. (An’hui). New province records for S. comes Löbl, S. grande Gestro, S. sauteri Miwa & Mitono, S. formosanum Pic, S. carinense Achard, S. sinense Pic, S. delatouchei Achard, S. biwenxuani He, Tang & Li, S. klapperichi Pic, S. stigmatinotum Löbl, S. wuyongxiangi He, Tang & Li, and S. direptum Tang & Li as well as some biological notes are reported. Habitus and diagnostic characters of all species are photographed and a key to Scaphidium species of East China is provided.

Three new species of the genus Scaphicoma Motschulsky, 1863 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scaphidiinae) from Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia
Three new species of the genus Scaphicoma Motschulsky, 1863 from Sulawesi, Indonesia are illustrated and described: Scaphicoma subflava Ogawa & Löbl, sp. n., S. bidentia Ogawa & Löbl, sp. n., and S. quadrifasciata Ogawa & Löbl, sp. n. Lepteroscapha pallens Achard, 1921 is designated as the type species of the genus Lepteroscapha Achard, 1921.
["Scaphidiinae"]

A taxonomic review of the Neoserica (sensu lato) septemlamellata group (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Sericini)
In the present paper the species belonging to the Neoserica (sensu lato) septemlamellata group, that included so far only four known species, are revised. Here we describe eleven new species originating mainly from Indochina and Southern China: N. daweishanica sp. n., N. gaoligongshanica sp. n., N. guangpingensis sp. n., N. igori sp. n., N. jiulongensis sp. n., N. plurilamellata sp. n., N. weishanica sp. n., N. yanzigouensis sp. n. (China) N. sapaensis sp. n. (China, Vietnam), N. bansongchana sp. n., N. takakuwai sp. n. (Laos). The lectotypes of Neoserica septemlamellata Brenske, 1898 and N. septemfoliata Moser, 1915 are designated. Keys to the species and species groups are given, the genitalia of all species and their habitus are illustrated and distribution maps are included.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Two new species of yellow-shouldered bats, genus Sturnira Gray, 1842 (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) from Costa Rica, Panama and western Ecuador
Two new species of yellow-shouldered bats Sturnira Gray, 1842 (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) from Central America and western South America are described using molecular and morphological data. The two new species, which occur in Costa Rica and Panama and in western Ecuador, were previously confused with S. ludovici, and S. lilium and S. luisi, respectively. Sturnira now includes 22 described species, making it the most speciose genus in the Neotropical family Phyllostomidae.

Revision of the carnivorous snail genus Discartemon Pfeiffer, 1856, with description of twelve new species (Pulmonata, Streptaxidae)
Twelve new species of the streptaxid snail genus Discartemon Pfeiffer, 1856 are described from southern Thailand and western Malaysia, D. afthonodontia sp. n., D. circulus sp. n., D. deprima sp. n., D. discadentus sp. n., D. discamaximus sp. n., D. expandus sp. n., D. flavacandida sp. n., D. kotanensis sp. n., and D. megalostraka sp. n. from southern Thailand, as well as D. conicus sp. n., D. epipedis sp. n. and D. triancus sp.n. from western Malaysia. All 15 previously described species are revised and commented upon based on examined material. Streptaxis paradiscus Möllendorff, 1900 is considered a junior subjective synonym of the type species D. discus (Pfeiffer, 1853). Details of the genital anatomy of twelve species, and the radula and pallial system, are provided for the first time. An identification key is provided.

A review of the Nearctic genus Prostoia (Ricker) (Plecoptera, Nemouridae), with the description of a new species and a surprising range extension for P. hallasi Kondratieff & Kirchner
The Nearctic genus Prostoia (Plecoptera: Nemouridae) is reviewed. Prostoia ozarkensis sp. n. is described from the male and female adult stages mainly from the Interior Highland region encompassing portions of Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Prostoia ozarkensis sp. n. appears most closely related to two species, one distributed broadly across the western Nearctic region, P. besametsa (Ricker), and one found widely throughout the central and eastern Nearctic regions, P. completa (Walker). A surprising range extension is noted for P. hallasi Kondratieff & Kirchner, a species once known only from the Great Dismal Swamp, from small upland streams in southern Illinois. Additional new state records are documented for P. besametsa, P. completa, P. hallasi and P. similis (Hagen). Taxonomic keys to Prostoia males and females are provided, and scanning electron micrographs of adult genitalia of all species are given.
["Plecoptera"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology"]

A new species of the paper wasp genus Polistes (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Polistinae) in Europe revealed by morphometrics and molecular analyses
We combine multivariate ratio analysis (MRA) of body measurements and analyses of mitochondrial and nuclear data to examine the status of several species of European paper wasps (Polistes Latreille, 1802) closely related to P. gallicus. Our analyses unambiguously reveal the presence of a cryptic species in Europe, as two distinct species can be recognized in what has hitherto been considered Polistes bischoffi Weyrauch, 1937. One species is almost as light coloured as P. gallicus, and is mainly recorded from Southern Europe and Western Asia. The other species is darker and has a more northern distribution in Central Europe. Both species occur syntopically in Switzerland. Given that the lost lectotype of P. bischoffi originated from Sardinia, we selected a female of the southern species as a neotype. The northern species is described as P. helveticus sp. n. here. We also provide a redescription of P. bischoffi rev. stat. and an identification key including three more closely related species, P. biglumis, P. gallicus and P. hellenicus.
["Cytochrome oxidase 1"]

Petrocephalus boboto and Petrocephalus arnegardi, two new species of African electric fish (Osteoglossomorpha, Mormyridae) from the Congo River basin
A specimen of the African weakly electric fish genus Petrocephalus (Osteoglossomorpha, Mormyridae) collected in the Congo River at Yangambi, Orientale Province, Democratic Republic of Congo, is described as a new species. Petrocephalus boboto sp. n. can be distinguished from other Central African species of Petrocephalus by a combination of the following characteristics: three distinct black spots on the body, one at the origin of the pectoral fin, one at the origin of the caudal fin and one below the anterior base of the dorsal fin; Nakenrosette and Khelrosette electroreceptor clusters distinct on head but Augenrosette cluster reduced in size; 23 branched dorsal rays, 34 branched anal rays, and electric organ discharge waveform triphasic. Petrocephalus boboto sp. n. most closely resembles the holotype of Petrocephalus binotatus but is easily distinguished from it by its smaller mouth. A comparative molecular analysis including 21 other Petrocephalus species shows Petrocephalus boboto sp. n. to be genetically distinctive and to represent a deep lineage in the genus. Two specimens of Petrocephalus collected at Yangambi are morphologically similar and genetically closely related to specimens previously assigned to Petrocephalus binotatus, collected in the northwestern Congo River basin within Odzala-Kokua National Park, Republic of the Congo. This prompts us to formally describe a new species from these collections, Petrocephalus arnegardi sp. n., that, although similar to the holotype of Petrocephalus binotatus, can be distinguished from it by its smaller mouth and shorter interorbital width.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Review of the fish parasitic genus Ceratothoa Dana, 1852 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cymothoidae) from South Africa, including the description of two new species
The genus Ceratothoa Dana, 1852 is revised for South African waters and re-diagnosed. Ceratothoa retusa (Schioedte & Meinert, 1883) is recorded from the eastern coast, and Ceratothoa africanae sp. n. and C. famosa sp. n. are described; C. imbricata (Fabricius, 1775) and C. trigonocephala (Leach, 1818), are redescribed, revised and excluded from the South African fauna. Ceratothoa africanae sp. n. can be distinguished by the stout body shape of the female; triangular cephalon with a pointed rostrum; short uropods which do not extend past the pleotelson; large carinae on the pereopod basis; a broad pleon; and large medial lobes on female pleopods. Ceratothoa famosa sp. n. is characterised by the long rectangular body shape; pereonite 1 with a raised medial protrusion; narrow antenna with antennule article 1 expanded; uropods which reach the posterior margin of the pleotelson; narrow rami on uropods; and no appendix masculina on pleopod 2 of the male specimens.
["Isopod"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

A new earthworm species within a controversial genus: Eiseniona gerardoi sp. n. (Annelida, Lumbricidae) - description based on morphological and molecular data
The morphological and anatomical simplicity of soil dwelling animals, such as earthworms, has limited the establishment of a robust taxonomy making it sometimes subjective to authors’ criteria. Within this context, integrative approaches including molecular information are becoming more popular to solve the phylogenetic positioning of conflictive taxa. Here we present the description of a new lumbricid species from the region of Extremadura (Spain), Eiseniona gerardoi sp. n. The assignment to this genus is based on both a morphological and a phylogenetic study. The validity of the genus Eiseniona, one of the most controversial within Lumbricidae, is discussed. A synopsis of the differences between the type species and the west-European members of the genus is provided.
["Earthworms"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Study of Mite Species"]

Discovery of an alien species of mayfly in South America (Ephemeroptera)
Despite its wide, almost worldwide distribution, the mayfly genusCloeonLeach, 1815 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) is restricted in the Western hemisphere to North America, where a single species is reported. In the Neotropics, except for some species wrongly attributed to the genus in the past, there are no records ofCloeon. Recently, however, specimens of trueCloeonwere collected along the coast of Espírito Santo, Southeastern Brazil. In order to verify the hypothesis that this species was recently introduced to Brazil, our aim was to identify the species based on morphological and molecular characters and to confirm the presence of true representatives of the genus in the Neotropics. Our results revealed that the specimens found in Brazil belong to the Afrotropical species C. smaeleniLestage, 1924. The identity of the species, its distribution, along with its previous absence in regularly sampled sites, is a clear sign that the specimens ofC. smaelenifound in Espírito Santo are introduced, well established, and that the colonization took place very recently.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Larval morphology of Panorpodes kuandianensis (Insecta, Mecoptera, Panorpodidae) and its evolutionary implications
Larval characters play a significant role in evolutionary and systematic studies of holometabolous insects. However, Panorpodidae, a derived family of Mecoptera, are largely unknown in their immature stages to date. Here, the first instar larva of the short-faced scorpionfly Panorpodes kuandianensis Zhong, Zhang & Hua, 2011 is described and illustrated using light and scanning electron microscopy. The larva of Panorpodes is remarkable for the absence of compound eyes on the head and the presence of seven small unpaired proleg-like processes along the midventral line on abdominal segments II–VIII. The homology of these unpaired appendage-like processes, their ecological adaptation, and the evolutionary implications of some larval characters of Panorpodidae are discussed.

The eastern swamp crayfish Gramastacus lacus sp. n. (Decapoda, Parastacidae) a new species of freshwater crayfish from coastal New South Wales, Australia
Gramastacus lacus sp. n., is described from coastal lowlands of the Central and Mid North Coast regions of New South Wales, Australia. Gramastacus lacus has a restricted distribution in ephemeral habitats, being dependent on regular natural flooding and drying cycles, and burrows for survival during temporary dry cycles. Documented are population distributions in lowland habitats (3–48 m, a.s.l.) from Wamberal Lagoon, north along the coastal strip to Wallis Lake. The species is small, reaching a maximum weight of 7 grams and 21.3 mm OCL, and distinguished by a large male genital papilla, large raised post orbital ridges, laterally compressed carapace and elongated chelae.
["Gramastacus lacus"]

A review of the non-bulimulid terrestrial Mollusca from the Region of Atacama, northern Chile
Terrestrial mollusca are sparsely studied in Chile and, for the first time, a formal record of the diversity of land snails in northern Chile is reported. Coastal and desertic areas in the Region of Atacama, in the border of the Atacama desert and the Pacific Ocean, were surveyed with the aim to describe the presence and distribution of this poorly known fauna. Of the fourteen species recorded, the geographic distribution records for nine species are extended, and some taxa are recorded for the first time since their original descriptions. All, except one, of the fourteen terrestrial molluscan species occurring in the area are endemic to Chile; they are all terrestrial species, most of them have a restricted geographic distribution, and none of them is currently protected by law. The results reveal that the region of Atacama has one of the most diverse terrestrial snail biodiversity in Chile, ranking only after the Juan Fernandez Archipelago. Distribution records of all the studied species and a taxonomic key are also provided.
["Land snails"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Description and molecular phylogeny of a new species of Phoronis (Phoronida) from Japan, with a redescription of topotypes of P. ijimai Oka, 1897
We describe Phoronis emigi sp. n. as the eighth member of the genus based on specimens collected from a sandy bottom at 33.2 m depth in Tomioka Bay, Amakusa, Japan. The new species is morphologically similar to P. psammophila Cori, 1889, but can be distinguished from the latter by the number of longitudinal muscle bundles in the body wall (56–72 vs. 25–50 in P. psammophila) and the position of the nephridiopores (situated level with the anus vs. lower than the anus in P. psammophila). Using sequences of the nuclear 18S and 28S rRNA genes and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, we inferred the relationship of P. emigi to other phoronids by the maximum likelihood method and Bayesian analysis. The analyses showed that P. emigi is closely related to P. hippocrepia Wright, 1856 and P. psammophila Cori, 1889. We describe the morphology of the topotypes and additional material for P. ijimai Oka, 1897. Neither our morphological observations of P. ijimai, nor the phylogenetic analyses based on 18S and COI sequences, contradicts that P. vancouverensis Pixell, 1912 is conspecific with P. ijimai, a synonymy that has long been disputed.
["Lophophorata"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

The genus Micatagla Argaman, 1994 in Egypt, with three new species and a new record (Hymenoptera, Bradynobaenidae, Apterogyninae)
The genus Micatagla Argaman (Bradynobaenidae: Apterogyninae) is reviewed from Egypt, based on specimens collected from Wadi Allaqi (Aswan, Southern Egypt) and Kom Osheim (Fayoum) and those deposited in Egyptian insect collections as well as recorded data from the literature. A single species, Micatagla klugi (André), was previously recorded from Egypt. Micatagla allaqiensis sp. n., Micatagla ezzati sp. n. and Micatagla pseudorainerii sp. n. are described here. Micatagla antropovi Pagliano is also newly recorded from the Egyptian fauna. An illustrated key and a faunistic list comprising all Micatagla species recorded from Egypt are given.
["Apterogyninae"]

A new species of Paratanais Dana, 1852 (Crustacea, Peracarida, Tanaidacea, Paratanaidae) from Puerto Rico, northwestern Atlantic
Paratanais rosadi sp. n. described from Puerto Rican coastal waters represents the first species of the genus from the northwestern Atlantic. It is distinguished from the other Paratanais species by a combination of characters, including article-2 of the maxilliped palp with a geniculate, finely-serrulate seta on inner margin; chela with stiff, geniculate, seta arising from propodus between fixed finger and dactylus and with short, stout, finely serrulate, seta on inner distal face of propodus adjacent to base of dactylus; carpus of pereopods 4−6three, instead of four stout modified spiniform setae distally, uropodal exopod distinctly shorter than endopodal article-1; and uropodal endopod with articles of about of equal in length. A key for the separation of Paratanais species from the Atlantic Ocean is presented.
["Tanaidomorpha"]

Review of the New Caledonian species of Acritoptila Wells, 1982 (Trichoptera, Insecta), with descriptions
of 3 new species
We review the New Caledonian representatives of the Australasian endemic hydroptiline genus Acritoptila, based on examination of a considerable collection of material in the Swedish Museum of Natural History and of types of previously established species. A key for identification of males is given and includes 3 species newly described here: A. parallela sp. n., A. forficata sp. n. and A. macrospina sp. n. For all New Caledonian species, male genitalia are illustrated, and for 5 associated females, distinctive features are illustrated and described.
["Spicipalpia"]

A survey of oonopid spiders in Taiwan with descriptions of three new species
The oonopid spiders of Taiwan are surveyed. Seven genera and 13 species are recognized, including 3 new species: Ischnothyreus kentingensis sp. n., Xyphinus hwangi sp. n. and Xestaspis shoushanensis sp. n. Seven species are newly recorded from this region: Brignolia parumpunctata (Simon, 1893), Opopaea apicalis (Simon, 1893), Opopaea cornuta Yin & Wang, 1984, Opopaea deserticola Simon, 1891, Orchestina sinensis Xu, 1987, Pseudotriaeris karschi (Bösenberg & Strand, 1906) and Xestaspis loricata (L. Koch, 1873).

A second species of Tyloceridius Malaise (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae)
Tyloceridius Malaise, 1945 and T. dorsatus (Mocsáry, 1883) are redescribed. Tyloceridius stictocephalus sp. n. from China and Nepal is described. Tyloceridius is recorded in China for the first time.
["Symphyta"]

First description of the female of Sarcophaga (Sarcorohdendorfia) gracilior (Chen, 1975) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae)
Sarcophaga (Sarcorohdendorfia) gracilior (Chen, 1975) is documented from specimens collected in Hubei Province, China, using morphological characters and wing interference patterns (WIPs). The female of S. (S.) gracilior is described for the first time, the male is redescribed, and both sexes are photographed. The distribution of the species is updated.
["Sarcophagidae"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae) of the Hanford Nuclear Site in south-central Washington State
In this paper we report on ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) collected from the Hanford Nuclear Reservation and Hanford National Monument (together the Hanford Site), which is located in south-central Washington State. The Site is a relatively undisturbed relict of the shrub-steppe habitat present throughout much of the western Columbia Basin before the westward expansion of the United States. Species, localities, months of capture, and capture method are reported for field work conducted between 1994 and 2002. Most species were collected using pitfall traps, although other capture methods were employed. Trapping results indicate the Hanford Site supports a diverse ground beetle community, with over 90% of the 92 species captured native to North America. Four species collected during the study period are newly recorded for Washington State: Bembidion diligens Casey, Calosoma obsoletum Say, Pseudaptinus rufulus (LeConte), and Stenolophus lineola (Fabricius). Based on these data, the Site maintains a diverse ground beetle fauna and, due to its size and diversity of habitats, is an important repository of shrub-steppe biodiversity.
["Shrub-steppe"]
["Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Fire effects on ecosystems", "Seedling growth and survival studies"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the Bulgarian species of the genus Vitrea (Gastropoda, Pristilomatidae) with the description of a new species
A new species of genus Vitrea is described: Vitrea ulrichi sp. n. is the eleventh species within the genus found in Bulgaria, and the largest representative of the Bulgarian Vitrea. Some critical notes on the taxonomy of the species V. bulgarica and V. sturanyi are presented. A key is provided for the determination of the species of Vitrea found in the country.

Description of two new species of Hisonotus Eigenmann & Eigenmann, 1889 (Ostariophysi, Loricariidae) from the rio Paraná-Paraguay basin, Brazil
Two new species of Hisonotus are described from the rio Paraná-Paraguay basin in Brazil. The most remarkable features of the new species are the odontodes forming longitudinally aligned rows (one odontode after the other, but not necessarily forming parallel series) on the head and trunk (vs. odontodes not forming longitudinally aligned rows), a pair of rostral plates at the tip of the snout (vs. a single rostral plate), the functional v-shaped spinelet (vs. spinelet non-functional, square-shaped, or absent). These features suggest close phylogenetic relationships with Hisonotus bockmanni, H. insperatus, H. luteofrenatus and H. piracanjuba. Additionally, both new species are distinguished from their congeners by characters related to head length and depth, orbital diameter, suborbital depth, caudal peduncle depth, pectoral-fin spine length, snout length and counts of teeth. Hisonotus paresi sp. n. further differs from its congeners bycontrasting dark geometric spots on the anterodorsal region of the body, a character lacking in H.oliveirai sp. n. The variation in number and shape of the rostral plate, posterior rostrum plates, infraorbitals and the preopercle in both new species and in H. insperatus are discussed.
["Cascudinhos"]

Six new species of Philiris Röber, 1891 (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae) from Papua New Guinea
Six new species of the large lycaenid genus Philiris Röber, 1891 (Philiris petriei sp. n., Philiris bubalisatina sp. n., Philiris baiteta sp. n., Philiris radicala sp. n., Philiris hindenburgensis sp. n. and Philiris parsonsi sp. n.), from Papua New Guinea, are described and illustrated, as are the early stages of the former taxon, with Litsea sp. near callophyllantha K. Schum (Lauraceae) recorded as the larval food plant. The holotypes of all but the latter are deposited in the ANIC, with that of P. parsonsi located in the BMNH. The external facies and male genitalia of all new species are compared in detail to putative known related species, and the types of these, in nearly all cases, are also illustrated.

Tabanidae (Diptera) of Amazônia XXI. Descriptions of Elephantotus gen. n. and E. tracuateuensis sp. n. (Diachlorini) from the Brazilian coast
Elephantotus, a new genus of Tabanidae from the Amazon coast, Brazil, is described based on a new species E. tracuateuensis. Five females were collected in Pará State, and a male in Maranhão State. Arguments are presented for separating the new genus from Dasybasis, as well as the possibility of its occurrence being related to the nesting sites of coastal birds. The new species is characterized by its large size (x = 2.15 cm, n = 5 females), glabrous eyes, reddish-brown tegument, light brown frontal callus not touching the edges of the eyes, extending up to the vertex that has traces of ocelli, basal plate of the antennal flagellum with obtuse angle, without a tooth or spine, wings hyaline, with brown basal cells, without appendix in the fork of vein R4 +5, and genital furca wide with extended flaps.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Catalogue of the type material of Phlebotominae (Diptera, Psychodidae) deposited in the Instituto Evandro Chagas, Brazil
The available type material of Phlebotominae (Diptera, Psychodidae) deposited in the “Coleção de Flebotomíneos” of the Instituto Evandro Chagas (ColFleb IEC) is now presented in an annotated catalogue comprising a total of 121 type specimens belonging to 12 species as follow: Nyssomyia richardwardi (2 female paratypes), Nyssomyia shawi (9 male and 25 female paratypes), Nyssomyia umbratilis (female holotype and 1 female paratype), Nyssomyia yuilli yuilli (1 male and 1 female paratypes), Pintomyia gruta (1 male and 2 female paratypes), Psychodopygus lainsoni (2 male syntypes), Psychodopygus leonidasdeanei (male holotype, female “allotype” and 45 female paratypes), Psychodopygus llanosmartinsi (2 female paratypes), Psychodopygus wellcomei (1 male and 4 female “syntypes”), Trichophoromyia readyi (male holotype, female “allotype” and 1 male paratype), Trichophoromyia adelsonsouzai (male holotype, 13 male 5 female paratypes), and Trichophoromyia brachipyga (1 male paratype).
["Collection"]
["Research on Leishmaniasis Studies", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Trypanosoma species research and implications"]

The family Ctenobelbidae (Acari, Oribatida), with description of a new species and discussion on systematic placement and taxonomic status of the genus Berndamerus Mahunka, 1977
The oribatid mite genus Berndamerus Mahunka, 1977 is transferred into the family Ctenobelbidae as the subgenus Ctenobelba (Berndamerus) Mahunka, 1977, stat. n. from the family Amerobelbidae. The known species of Berndamerus combined: C. (B.) bicostata (Berlese, 1910), comb. n., C. (B.) eremuloides (Berlese, 1910), comb. n., C. (B.) hellenica (Mahunka, 1977), comb. n. A new species, Ctenobelba (Berndamerus) bugiamapensis sp. n., is described from soil, Bu Gia Map National Park, southern Vietnam. It differs from the other species of the subgenus by the heterotrichy of notogastral setae, presence of adanal neotrichy and localization of adanal lyrifissures. Ctenobelbidae is recorded in Vietnam for the first time. A new diagnosis of the family Ctenobelbidae and the identification keys to the known subgenera of the genus Ctenobelba and species of the subgenus Ctenobelba (Berndamerus) are provided.
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

A revision of the ant genus Mystrium in the Malagasy region with description of six new species and remarks on Amblyopone and Stigmatomma (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Amblyoponinae)
The genus Mystrium is revised for the Malagasy region. Six species, Mystrium barrybressleri sp. n., M. labyrinth sp. n., M. eques sp. n., M. mirror sp. n., M. shadow sp. n., and M. janovitzi sp. n. are described as new. Two existing names, Mystrium fallax Forel and M. stadelmanni Forel, are synonymized with M. voeltzkowi Forel and M. mysticum Roger, respectively. All recognized species, including species outside of the Malagasy region, are assigned to one of the three newly proposed species groups. The associations between existing names and males are reexamined, and males of eight of the ten Malagasy species are described or redescribed. The taxonomic history of Mystrium highlights the importance of using unique identifiers when designating type specimens and the use of deposited vouchers in phylogenetic and ecological studies. Keys to species for workers, queens, and males are provided. Furthermore, a neotype for M. mysticum is designated, as well as lectotypes for M. camillae Emery, M. rogeri Forel, M. fallax Forel, M. oberthueri Forel, M. stadelmanni Forel, and M. voeltzkowi Forel. Stigmatomma gingivale (Brown) is reassigned to Amblyopone as comb. rev. and Amblyopone awa Xu & Chu, A. kangba Xu & Chu, A. meiliana Xu & Chu, and A. zomae Xu & Chu are transferred to the genus Stigmatomma as comb. n.
["Major"]

A cybertaxonomic revision of the micro-landsnail genus Plectostoma Adam (Mollusca, Caenogastropoda, Diplommatinidae), from Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and Indochina
Plectostoma is a micro land snail restricted to limestone outcrops in Southeast Asia. Plectostoma was previously classified as a subgenus of Opisthostoma because of the deviation from regular coiling in many species in both taxa. This paper is the first of a two-part revision of the genus Plectostoma, and includes all non-Borneo species. In the present paper, we examined 214 collection samples of 31 species, and obtained 62 references, 290 pictures, and 155 3D-models of 29 Plectostoma species and 51 COI sequences of 19 species. To work with such a variety of taxonomic data, and then to represent it in an integrated, scaleable and accessible manner, we adopted up-to-date cybertaxonomic tools. All the taxonomic information, such as references, classification, species descriptions, specimen images, genetic data, and distribution data, were tagged and linked with cyber tools and web servers (e.g. Lifedesks, Google Earth, and Barcoding of Life Database). We elevated Plectostoma from subgenus to genus level based on morphological, ecological and genetic evidence. We revised the existing 21 Plectostoma species and described 10 new species, namely, P. dindingensis sp. n., P.mengaburensis sp. n., P. whitteni sp. n., P. kayiani sp. n., P. davisoni sp. n., P. relauensis sp. n., P. kubuensis sp. n., P. tohchinyawi sp. n., P. tenggekensis sp. n., and P. ikanensis sp. n. All the synthesised, semantic-tagged, and linked taxonomic information is made freely and publicly available online.
["Sundaland"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Annotated type catalogue of the Bulimulidae (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Orthalicoidea) in the Natural History Museum, London
The type status is described of 404 taxa classified within the family Bulimulidae (superfamily Orthalicoidea) and kept in the London museum. Lectotypes are designated for Bulimus aurifluus Pfeiffer, 1857; Otostomus bartletti H. Adams, 1867; Helix cactorum d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulimus caliginosus Reeve, 1849; Bulimus chemnitzioides Forbes, 1850; Bulimus cinereus Reeve, 1849; Helix cora d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulimus fallax Pfeiffer, 1853; Bulimus felix Pfeiffer, 1862; Bulimus fontainii d’Orbigny, 1838; Bulimus fourmiersi d’Orbigny, 1837; Bulimus (Mesembrinus) gealei H. Adams, 1867; Bulimus gruneri Pfeiffer, 1846; Bulimus humboldtii Reeve, 1849; Helix hygrohylaea d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulimus jussieui Pfeiffer, 1846; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) binominis lascellianus E.A. Smith, 1895; Helix lichnorum d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) lucidus da Costa, 1898; Bulimus luridus Pfeiffer, 1863; Bulimus meleagris Pfeiffer, 1853; Bulimus monachus Pfeiffer, 1857; Bulimus montagnei d’Orbigny, 1837; Helix montivaga d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulimus muliebris Reeve, 1849; Bulimus nigrofasciatus Pfeiffer in Philippi 1846; Bulimus nitelinus Reeve, 1849; Helix oreades d’Orbigny, 1835; Helix polymorpha d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulimus praetextus Reeve, 1849; Bulinus proteus Broderip, 1832; Bulimus rusticellus Morelet, 1860; Helix sporadica d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulimus sulphureus Pfeiffer, 1857; Helix thamnoica var. marmorata d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulinus translucens Broderip in Broderip and Sowerby I 1832; Helix trichoda d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulinus ustulatus Sowerby I, 1833; Bulimus voithianus Pfeiffer, 1847; Bulimus yungasensis d’Orbigny, 1837.The type status of the following taxa is changed to lectotype in accordance with Art. 74.6 ICZN: Bulimulus (Drymaeus) caucaensis da Costa, 1898; Drymaeus exoticus da Costa, 1901; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) hidalgoi da Costa, 1898; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) interruptus Preston, 1909; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) inusitatus Fulton, 1900; Bulimulus latecolumellaris Preston, 1909; Bulimus (Otostomus) napo Angas, 1878; Drymaeus notabilis da Costa, 1906; Drymaeus notatus da Costa, 1906; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) nubilus Preston, 1903; Drymaeus obliquistriatus da Costa, 1901; Bulimus (Drymaeus) ochrocheilus E.A. Smith, 1877; Bulimus (Drymaeus) orthostoma E.A. Smith, 1877; Drymaeus expansus perenensis da Costa, 1901; Bulimulus pergracilis Rolle, 1904; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) plicatoliratus da Costa, 1898; Drymaeus prestoni da Costa, 1906; Drymaeus punctatus da Costa, 1907; Bulimus (Leptomerus) sanctaeluciae E.A. Smith, 1889; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) selli Preston, 1909; Drymaeus subventricosus da Costa, 1901; Bulimulus ( Drymaeus) tigrinus da Costa, 1898; Drymaeus volsus Fulton, 1907; Drymaeus wintlei Finch, 1929; Bulimus zhorquinensis Angas, 1879; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) ziczac da Costa, 1898.The following junior subjective synonyms are established: Bulimus antioquensis Pfeiffer, 1855 = Bulimus baranguillanus Pfeiffer, 1853; Drymaeus bellus da Costa, 1906 = Drymaeus blandi Pilsbry, 1897; Bulimus hachensis Reeve 1850 = Bulimus gruneri Pfeiffer, 1846 = Bulimus columbianus Lea, 1838; Bulimus (Otostomus) lamas Higgins 1868 = Bulimus trujillensis Philippi, 1867; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) binominis lascellianus E.A. Smith, 1895 = Bulimulus (Drymaeus) binominis E.A. Smith, 1895; Drymaeus multispira da Costa, 1904 = Helix torallyi d’Orbigny, 1835; Bulimulus (Drymaeus) plicatoliratus Da Costa, 1898 = Bulimus convexus Pfeiffer, 1855; Bulimus sugillatus Pfeiffer, 1857 = Bulimus rivasii d’Orbigny, 1837; Bulimus meridionalis Reeve 1848 [June] = Bulimus voithianus Pfeiffer, 1847.New combinations are: Bostryx montagnei (d’Orbigny, 1837); Bostryx obliquiportus (da Costa, 1901); Bulimulus heloicus (d’Orbigny, 1835); Drymaeus (Drymaeus) lusorius (Pfeiffer, 1855); Drymaeus (Drymaeus) trigonostomus (Jonas, 1844); Drymaeus (Drymaeus) wintlei Finch, 1929; Drymaeus (Mesembrinus) conicus da Costa, 1907; Kuschelenia (Kuschelenia) culminea culminea (d’Orbigny, 1835); Kuschelenia (K.) culmineus edwardsi (Morelet, 1863); Kuschelenia (K.) gayi (Pfeiffer, 1857); Kuschelenia (K.) tupacii (d’Orbigny, 1835); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) anthisanensis (Pfeiffer, 1853); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) aquilus (Reeve, 1848); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) bicolor (Sowerby I, 1835); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) caliginosus (Reeve, 1849); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) cotopaxiensis (Pfeiffer, 1853); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) filaris (Pfeiffer, 1853); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) ochracea (Morelet, 1863); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) petiti (Pfeiffer, 1846); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) purpuratus (Reeve, 1849); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) quechuarum (Crawford, 1939); Naesiotus cinereus (Reeve, 1849); Naesiotus dentritis (Morelet, 1863); Naesiotus fontainii (d’Orbigny, 1838); Naesiotus orbignyi (Pfeiffer, 1846); Protoglyptus pilosus (Guppy, 1871); Protoglyptus sanctaeluciae (E.A. Smith, 1889).Type material of the following taxa is figured herein for the first time: Bulimus cinereus Reeve, 1849; Bulimus coriaceus Pfeiffer, 1857; Bulimulus laxostylus Rolle, 1904; Bulimus pliculatus Pfeiffer, 1857; Bulimus simpliculus Pfeiffer, 1855.
["Bulimulidae"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Four new spider species of the family Theridiosomatidae (Arachnida, Araneae) from caves in Laos
Four new species of the spider family Theridiosomatidae are described from caves in Laos: Alaria cavernicola sp. n. (♂♀), A. navicularis sp. n., (♂♀) A. bicornis sp. n. (♂♀), Chthonopes thakekensis sp. n. (♀). Diagnoses and illustrations for all new taxa are given. All holotypes are deposited in the Senckenberg Research Institute in Frankfurt am Main, Germany (SMF).
["Cave spiders"]

A new species of the Aenictus wroughtonii group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from South-East China
A new species of army ant from the Aenictus wroughtonii group is described and illustrated based on the worker caste. Aenictus gutianshanensis Staab, sp. n. is known form a single colony collected in the subtropical mixed evergreen broad-leaved forest of the Gutianshan National Nature Reserve, South-East China. The new species is probably most closely related to A. vieti Jaitrong & Yamane, 2010 known from North Vietnam and Taiwan. It is suggested that the abundant records of A. camposi Wheeler & Chapman, 1925 from East and South-East China should be reevaluated, as they are probably A. gutianshanensis or A. vieti and not A. camposi, which is distributed in Sundaland, the Philippines, and the southernmost part of continental South-East Asia.
["Aenictinae"]

Two new species of Micrencaustes Crotch, subgenus Mimencaustes Heller from China (Coleoptera, Erotylidae, Encaustini)
Two new species Micrencaustes (Mimencaustes) renshiae sp. n. and Micrencaustes (Mimencaustes) biomaculata sp. n. are described and illustrated from China. A key to Chinese species of subgenus Mimencaustes Heller is provided.

A new genus of Cletopsyllidae (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from Gulf of Mexico
A new genus and new species of the family Cletopsyllidae Huys & Willems, 1989 from deep-sea sediment in the Gulf of Mexico, are reported and fully described and illustrated. The new genus Pentacletopsyllus (type species: P. montagni sp. n.) can be distinguished from the four known genera of the family by antennule segmentation, length ratio of first and second endopodal segments of P1, and armature pattern on P5 exopod. It also differs from its sister genera by the rostrum being bifid at the tip, third segment of the female antennulea smooth posterior margin, the baseoendopod of P5 with biarticulate outer setophore bearing basal seta, and female caudal rami without lobate expansion. A revised key to species of the family Cletopsyllidae Huys & Willems, 1989 is provided.
["Harpacticoida"]

Pictorial key to species of the genus Ropalidia Guérin-Méneville, 1831 (Hymenoptera, Vespidae) from China, with description of one new species
Twenty two species of the paper wasp genus Ropalidia Guérin-Méneville, 1831, are listed from China. Among them, R. malaisei van der Vecht, 1962, R. cyathiformis (Fabricius, 1804), R. santoshae Das & Gupta, 1989, R. scitula (Bingham, 1897), R. obscura Gusenleitner, 1996 and R. ornaticeps (Cameron, 1900) are new records from China. A new species, R. parartifex Tan & van Achterberg, is described. Their diagnostic characteristics are summarized in an illustrated key and 36 colourplates.
["Vespidae"]

Revision of the Neotropical bark mantis genus Liturgusa Saussure, 1869 (Insecta, Mantodea, Liturgusini)
The praying mantis genus Liturgusa Saussure, 1869 occurs only in the Central and South America and represents the most diverse genus of Neotropical Liturgusini (Ehrmann 2002). The genus includes bark dwelling species, which live entirely on the trunks and branches of trees and run extremely fast. All species included within the genus Liturgusa are comprehensively revised with a distribution stretching from central Mexico, the island of Dominica to the southeastern regions of Brazil and southern Bolivia. All known species are redescribed to meet the standards of the new treatment of the genus. Three new genera are described including Fuga gen. n., Velox gen. n., and Corticomantis gen. n. for species previously included in Liturgusa as well as Hagiomantis. Liturgusa mesopoda Westwood, 1889 is moved to within the previously described genus Hagiomantis Audinet Serville, 1838. A total of 19 species are newly described within Liturgusa, Fuga, and Velox including L. algorei sp. n., L. bororum sp. n., L. cameroni sp. n., L. cura sp. n., L. dominica sp. n., L. fossetti sp. n., L. kirtlandi sp. n., L. krattorum sp. n., L. manausensis sp. n., L. maroni sp. n., L. milleri sp. n., L. neblina sp. n., L. purus sp. n., L. stiewei sp. n., L. tessae sp. n., L. trinidadensis sp. n., L. zoae sp. n., F. grimaldii sp. n., and V. wielandi sp. n. Four species names are synonymized: Liturgusa peruviana Giglio-Tos, 1914 syn. n. = Liturgusa nubeculosa Gerstaecker, 1889 and Hagiomantis parva Piza, 1966 syn. n., Liturgusa sinvalnetoi Piza, 1982 syn. n., and Liturgusa parva Giglio-Tos, 1914syn. n. = Mantis annulipes Audinet Serville, 1838. Lectotypes are designated for the following two species: Liturgusa maya Saussure & Zehntner, 1894 and Fuga annulipes (Audinet Serville, 1838). A male neotype is designated for Liturgusa guyanensis La Greca, 1939. Males for eight species are described for the first time including Liturgusa cayennensis Saussure, 1869, Liturgusa lichenalis Gerstaecker, 1889, Liturgusa guyanensis La Greca, 1939, Liturgusa maya Saussure & Zehntner, 1894, Liturgusa nubeculosa Gerstaecker, 1889, Fuga annulipes (Audinet Serville, 1838), Corticomantis atricoxata (Beier, 1931), and Hagiomantis mesopoda (Westwood, 1889). The female of Fuga fluminensis (Piza, 1965) is described for the first time. Complete bibliographic histories are provided for previously described species. The spelling confusion surrounding Liturgusa/Liturgousa is resolved. Full habitus images for males and females are provided for nearly all species. Habitus and label images of type specimens are provided when possible. Diagnostic illustrations of the head and pronotum for males and females are provided for all species when possible. Illustrations of male genital structures are provided for all species for which males are known. Measurement data, including ranges and averages, are provided for males and females of all species. Combined male and female genus and species level dichotomous keys are provided with a spanish translation. A complete table of all examined specimens lists label data, museum codes, repositories, and other specimen specific information. A KML file with all georeferenced locality records is downloadable from mantodearesearch.com for viewing in Google Earth. Natural history information is provided for species observed by the author.
["Mantodea"]

A new troglomorphic species of Harmonicon (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Dipluridae) from Pará, Brazil, with notes on the genus
A new species of Harmonicon F. O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1896 (Araneae, Dipluridae) is described, from a medium-sized lateritic cave in Parauapebas, Pará, Brazil. The male holotype and only specimen known of H. cerberus sp. n. was found near the entrance of Pequiá cave. This taxon is the fourth species described and the southernmost record for the genus. The new species displays some troglomorphic characteristics, such as reduction and merging of the posterior median and both pairs of lateral eyes and pale yellow to light brown coloration. Both characters are diagnostic when compared to the normal separated eyes and reddish to dark brown of other Harmonicon species. Other diagnostic characteristics are isolated, long, rigid setae distal to the lyra and the shape of the copulatory bulb. This is the second troglomorphic mygalomorph species from Brazil and the first from the Amazonian region.

Life history and description of larva and pupa of Platyphileurus felscheanus Ohaus, 1910, a scarabaeid feeding on bromeliad tissues in Brazil, to be excluded from Phileurini (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Dynastinae)
The third instar larvae and the pupae of Platyphileurus felscheanus Ohaus, 1910 (Phileurini), recently synonymized with Surutu jelineki Endrődi, 1975 (Cyclocephalini), are described and illustrated, and some life history information is given. The larvae were collected and reared in bromeliads in rain forests of Santa Catarina state in southern Brazil. The systematic position of this monotypic genus is reassessed at the tribe level by considering larval and adult morphological characters. Both character sets, being described and illustrated, suggest the placement of Platyphileurus in the tribe Oryctini.
["Surutu jelineki"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A new species of Grotea Cresson (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Labeninae) from Colombia
The genus Grotea has 18 described species. A new species, Grotea villosissima sp. n., is described here and its host information included. This is the first record of Grotea for Colombia.

The taxonomic accounts of the genus Symmorphus Wesmael (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae) from China, with descriptions of three new species
In this study, we recognize and review a total of 19 species of the genus Symmorphus Wesmael from China. We also provide a key to these species. Three new species are described and illustrated, namely Symmorphus (Symmorphus) tianchiensis Li & Chen, sp. n., S. (S.) cavatus Li & Chen, sp. n., and S. (S.) nigriclypeus Li & Chen, sp. n. The following four species are newly recorded from China: Symmorphus (S.) fuscipes (Herrich-Schaeffer), S. (S.) lucens (Kostylev), S. (S.) sublaevis Kostylev, and S. (S.) violaceipennis Giordani Soika. In addition, we map the species geographical distributions in China of these 19 species. Type specimens of these three new species are deposited in Chongqing Normal University and Yunnan Agricultural University.

New cave-dwelling armored spiders (Araneae, Tetrablemmidae) from Southwest China
A new genus and five new species belonging to the family Tetrablemmidae are described from caves in Southwest China, i.e., Sinamma oxycera gen. & sp. n., Singaporemma banxiaoensis sp. n., Singaporemma wulongensis sp. n., Tetrablemma ziyaoensis sp. n. and Tetrablemma menglaensis sp. n. The following new combination is proposed: Sinamma sanya (Lin & Li, 2010), comb. n. ex. Shearella Lehtinen, 1981. The relationships of the Sinamma gen. n. with other genera are discussed. Diagnoses and illustrations for all new taxa are given.

A review of Rheocricotopus (Psilocricotopus) chalybeatus species group from China, with the description of three new species (Diptera, Chironomidae)
The Rheocricotopus (Psilocricotopus) chalybeatus species group from China is reviewed. Three new species, R. (P.) brochus sp. n., R. (P.) rotundus sp. n. and R. (P.) serratus sp. n. are described as adult males. R. (P.) imperfectus Makarchenko & Makarchenko, 2005, R. (P.) robacki (Beck & Beck, 1964) and R. (P.) valgus Chaudhuri & Sinharay, 1983 are recorded from China for the first time and annotated. The diagnosis for the species group is emended and a key to adult males of the species group in China is presented.
["Chironomidae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Study of Mite Species"]

New species and records of Metriocnemus van der Wulp s. str. from China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
The Chinese species of Metriocnemus van der Wulp s. str., 1874 is reviewed. M. (M.) calcaneum sp. n. is described and illustrated as adult male. M. (M.) albolineatus (Meigen) is recorded from China for the first time. M. (M.) beringensis (Cranston & Oliver), M. (M.) bilobatus Makarchenko & Makarchenko, M. (M.) caudigus Sæther, M. (M.) intergerivus Sæther, M. (M.) tamaokui Sasa and M. (M.) tristellus Edwards are recorded from the Oriental Region for the first time. A key to the males of 17 Chinese Metriocnemus (Metriocnemus) species is given.

Review of genus Pseudorthocladius Goetghebuer, 1943 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from China
The genus Pseudorthocladius Goetghebuer, 1943 from China, including 12 species, is reviewed. Five new species, P. (P.) binarius sp. n., P. (P.) cylindratus sp. n., P. (P.) digitus sp. n., P. (P.) ovatus sp. n. and P. (P.) paucus sp. n. are described and illustrated as adult males. P. (P.) cristagus Stur & Sæther, 2004, P. (P.) jintutridecima (Sasa, 1996), P. (P.) macrovirgatus Sæther & Sublette, 1983, P. (P.) morsei Sæther & Sublette, 1983, P. (P.) uniserratus Sæther & Sublette, 1983, P. (L.) wingoi Sæther & Sublette, 1983 are newly recorded in Oriental Region. A key to the males of Pseudorthocladius in China is presented.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Revision of the Chaetocnema picipes species-group (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini) in China, with descriptions of three new species
The Chinese Chaetocnema picipes species-group is revised. It contains 5 species including 3 new species: C. cheni sp. n., C. constricta sp. n. and C. kingpinensis sp. n. The lectotype of C. fortecostata is designated. A key to all known species of this group from China and the illustrations of habitus and genitalia are provided. A distribution map of species is given.

The Megophthalmidia (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) of North America including eight new species
Megophthalmidia Dziedzicki is a small leiine genus (Mycetophilidae) with seven species described from the Neotropics and ten species from the Palearctic region. Two species of Megophthalmidia have been reported for North America. Recent collecting of Mycetophilidae in California and Arizona, however, shows current North American diversity of Megophthalmidia is at least on par to other regions of the world. Eight new species of Megophthalmidia are described here, increasing the number of Nearctic Megophthalmidia species to nine. Included is a particularly atypical member of the genus, M. saskia sp. n., which expands the genus concept of Megophthalmidia. Of the two species previously recorded for North America, only one actually belongs in the genus. Megophthalmidia occidentalis Johannsen, is fully described and illustrated. The other named species, M. marceda (Sherman) is illustrated and transferred to the genus Ectrepesthoneura Enderlein. A lectotype is designated for this species. A key to the species of Megophthalmidia of North America is provided. The biology of these flies is not yet known. Three of the new Megophthalmidia species – M. lenimenta, M. misericordia, and M. radiata – are only known to occur within small protected areas within the California State Park and UC Natural Reserve systems.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Burmoniscus kitadaitoensis Nunomura, 2009 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) from southern Japan, a junior synonym of B. meeusei (Holthuis, 1947)
Re-examination of the holotype of Burmoniscus kitadaitoensis Nunomura, 2009 from Kitadaitojima Island, southern Japan reveals that this species is a junior synonym of B. meeusei (Holthuis, 1947). Partial regions of mitochondrial COI, 12S and 16S rRNA genes, and nuclear 18S and 28S rRNA genes were detected for species identification in the future.
["Kitadaitojima Island"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A revision of the Chinese Trigonalyidae (Hymenoptera, Trigonalyoidea)
The Chinese fauna of the family Trigonalyidae Cresson, 1887, is revised, keyed and fully illustrated for the first time. Eight genera of this family (Bakeronymus Rohwer, 1922; Bareogonalos Schulz, 1907; Jezonogonalos Tsuneki, 1991, re-instated; Lycogaster Shuckard, 1841; Orthogonalys Schulz, 1905; Pseudogonalos Schulz, 1906 and Taeniogonalos Schulz, 1906 and Teranishia Tsuneki, 1991) are recorded from China. The genus Ischnogonalos Schulz, 1907, is synonymized with Taeniogonalos Schulz, 1906 syn. n. In total 40 valid species are recognized. Twenty species are new for science: Jezonogonalos elliptifera sp. n., J. jiangliae sp. n., J.luteata sp. n., J. nigrata sp. n., Lycogaster angustula sp. n., L. flavonigrata sp. n., L. nigralva sp.n., Orthogonalys cheni sp. n., O. clypeata sp. n., O. robusta sp. n., Pseudogonalos angusta sp. n., Taeniogonalos bucarinata sp. n., T. cordata sp. n., T. geminata sp. n., T. sculpturata sp. n., T. triangulata sp. n., T. tricolorisoma sp. n., T. uncifera sp. n., Teranishia crenulata sp. n. and T. glabrata sp. n.. Two species are reported new for China: Orthogonalys elongata Teranishi, 1929 and Nanogonalos flavocincta Teranishi, 1929 (renamed to Taeniogonalos subtruncata nom. n.). Seven new synonyms are proposed: Poecilogonalos yuasai Teranishi, 1938, and P. maga taiwana Tsuneki, 1991, of Taeniogonalos taihorina (Bischoff, 1914); Taiwanogonalos minima Tsuneki, 1991, and T. similis Tsuneki, 1991, of Taeniogonalos alticola (Tsuneki,1991), P. intermedia Chen, 1949, and P. unifasciata Chen, 1949, of Taeniogonalos formosana (Bischoff, 1913). Six taxa are recognised as valid species: Bakeronymus seidakka Yamane & Terayama, 1983, Jezonogonalos laeviceps (Tsuneki, 1991), J. satoi (Tsuneki, 1991), Taeniogonalos alticola (Tsuneki, 1991), T. flavoscutellata (Chen, 1949) and T. gestroi (Schulz, 1908). Five new combinations are made: Jezonogonalos laeviceps (Tsuneki, 1991) comb. n., J. satoi (Tsuneki, 1991) comb. n., Taeniogonalos flavoscutellata (Chen, 1949) comb. n., T. gestroi (Schulz, 1908) comb. n. and T. lachrymosa (Westwood, 1874) comb. n.. Lectotypes are designated for Lycogaster violaceipennis Chen, 1949, Poecilogonalos flavoscutellata Chen, 1949, P. rufofasciata Chen, 1949, and P. tricolor Chen, 1949.
["Revision"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

A revision of the genus Arenivaga (Rehn) (Blattodea, Corydiidae), with descriptions of new species and key to the males of the genus
The cockroach genus Arenivaga is revised. Forty-eight Arenivaga species are recognized with nine previously known species and 39 described as new including the following: A.pagana sp.n., A.grandiscanyonensis sp.n., A.haringtoni sp.n., A.hopkinsorum sp.n., A.umbratilis sp.n., A.tenax sp.n., A.impensa sp.n., A.trypheros sp.n., A.darwini sp.n., A.nalepae sp.n., A.sequoia sp.n., A.mckittrickae sp.n., A.gaiophanes sp.n., A.belli sp.n., A.estelleae sp.n., A.delicata sp.n., A.mortisvallisensis sp.n., A.milleri sp.n., A.pratchetti sp.n., A.gumperzae sp.n., A.rothi sp.n., A.ricei sp.n., A.adamsi sp.n., A.nicklei sp.n., A.akanthikos sp.n., A.moctezuma sp.n., A.paradoxa sp.n., A.apaeninsula sp.n., A.hebardi sp.n., A.dnopheros sp.n., A.aquila sp.n., A.florilega sp.n., A.galeana sp.n., A.gurneyi sp.n., A.pumila sp.n., A.hypogaios sp.n., A.diaphana sp.n., A.nocturna sp.n., A.alichenas sp.n. All species are described or redescribed, major morphological features are illustrated, distributions are characterized, and the biology of the species is reviewed. A neotype series is designated for A.investigata Friauf & Edney.
["Arenivaga"]

Review of Apanteles sensu stricto (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica, with keys to all described species from Mesoamerica
More than half a million specimens of wild-caught Lepidoptera caterpillars have been reared for their parasitoids, identified, and DNA barcoded over a period of 34 years (and ongoing) from Area de Conservación de Guanacaste (ACG), northwestern Costa Rica. This provides the world’s best location-based dataset for studying the taxonomy and host relationships of caterpillar parasitoids. Among Hymenoptera, Microgastrinae (Braconidae) is the most diverse and commonly encountered parasitoid subfamily, with many hundreds of species delineated to date, almost all undescribed. Here, we reassess the limits of the genus Apanteles sensu stricto, describe 186 new species from 3,200+ parasitized caterpillars of hundreds of ACG Lepidoptera species, and provide keys to all 205 described Apanteles from Mesoamerica –including 19 previously described species in addition to the new species. The Mesoamerican Apanteles are assigned to 32 species-groups, all but two of which are newly defined. Taxonomic keys are presented in two formats: traditional dichotomous print versions and links to electronic interactive versions (software Lucid 3.5). Numerous illustrations, computer-generated descriptions, distributional information, wasp biology, and DNA barcodes (where available) are presented for every species. All morphological terms are detailed and linked to the Hymenoptera Anatomy Ontology website. DNA barcodes (a standard fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) mitochondrial gene), information on wasp biology (host records, solitary/gregariousness of wasp larvae), ratios of morphological features, and wasp microecological distributions were used to help clarify boundaries between morphologically cryptic species within species-complexes. Because of the high accuracy of host identification for about 80% of the wasp species studied, it was possible to analyze host relationships at a regional level. The ACG species of Apanteles attack mainly species of Hesperiidae, Elachistidae and Crambidae (Lepidoptera). About 90% of the wasp species with known host records seem to be monophagous or oligophagous at some level, parasitizing just one host family and commonly, just one species of caterpillar. Only 15 species (9%) parasitize species in more than one family, and some of these cases are likely to be found to be species complexes. We have used several information sources and techniques (traditional taxonomy, molecular, software-based, biology, and geography) to accelerate the process of finding and describing these new species in a hyperdiverse group such as Apanteles.The following new taxonomic and nomenclatural acts are proposed. Four species previously considered to be Apanteles are transferred to other microgastrine genera: Dolichogenidea hedyleptae (Muesebeck, 1958) comb. n., Dolichogenidea politiventris (Muesebeck, 1958) comb. n., Rhygoplitis sanctivincenti (Ashmead, 1900) comb. n., and Illidops scutellaris (Muesebeck, 1921) comb. rev. One European species that is a secondary homonym to a Mesoamerican species is removed from Apanteles and transferred to another genus: Iconella albinervis (Tobias, 1964) stat. rev. The name Apanteles albinervican Shenefelt, 1972, is an invalid replacement name for Apanteles albinervis (Cameron, 1904) stat. rev., and thus the later name is reinstated as valid. The following 186 species, all in Apanteles and all authored by Fernández-Triana, are described as species nova: adelinamoralesae, adrianachavarriae, adrianaguilarae, adrianguadamuzi, aichagirardae, aidalopezae, albanjimenezi, alejandromasisi, alejandromorai, minorcarmonai, alvarougaldei, federicomatarritai, anabellecordobae, rostermoragai, anamarencoae, anamartinesae, anapiedrae, anariasae, andreacalvoae, angelsolisi, arielopezi, bernardoespinozai, bernyapui, bettymarchenae, bienvenidachavarriae, calixtomoragai, carloscastilloi, carlosguadamuzi, eliethcantillanoae, carlosrodriguezi, carlosviquezi, carloszunigai, carolinacanoae, christianzunigai, cinthiabarrantesae, ciriloumanai, cristianalemani, cynthiacorderoae, deifiliadavilae, dickyui, didiguadamuzi, diegoalpizari, diegotorresi, diniamartinezae, duniagarciae, duvalierbricenoi, edgarjimenezi, edithlopezae, eduardoramirezi, edwinapui, eldarayae, erickduartei, esthercentenoae, eugeniaphilipsae, eulogiosequeira, felipechavarriai, felixcarmonai, fernandochavarriai, flormoralesae, franciscopizarroi, franciscoramirezi, freddyquesadai, freddysalazari, gabrielagutierrezae, garygibsoni, gerardobandoi, gerardosandovali, gladysrojasae, glenriverai, gloriasihezarae, guadaluperodriguezae, guillermopereirai, juanmatai, harryramirezi, hectorsolisi, humbertolopezi, inesolisae, irenecarrilloae, isaacbermudezi, isidrochaconi, isidrovillegasi, ivonnetranae, jairomoyai, javiercontrerasi, javierobandoi, javiersihezari, jesusbrenesi, jesusugaldei, jimmychevezi, johanvargasi, jorgecortesi, jorgehernandezi, josecalvoi, josecortesi, josediazi, josejaramilloi, josemonteroi, joseperezi, joserasi, juanapui, juancarrilloi, juangazoi, juanhernandezi, juanlopezi, juanvictori, juliodiazi, juniorlopezi, keineraragoni, laurahuberae, laurenmoralesae, leninguadamuzi, leonelgarayi, lilliammenae, lisabearssae, luciariosae, luisbrizuelai, luiscanalesi, luiscantillanoi, luisgarciai, luisgaritai, luishernandezi, luislopezi, luisvargasi, manuelarayai, manuelpereirai, manuelriosi, manuelzumbadoi, marcobustosi, marcogonzalezi, marcovenicioi, mariachavarriae mariaguevarae, marialuisariasae, mariamendezae, marianopereirai, mariatorrentesae, sigifredomarini, marisolarroyoae, marisolnavarroae, marvinmendozai, mauriciogurdiani, milenagutierrezae, monicachavarriae, oscarchavesi, osvaldoespinozai, pablotranai, pabloumanai, pablovasquezi, paulaixcamparijae, luzmariaromeroae, petronariosae, randallgarciai, randallmartinezi, raulacevedoi, raulsolorsanoi, wadyobandoi, ricardocaleroi, robertmontanoi, robertoespinozai, robertovargasi, rodrigogamezi, rogerblancoi, rolandoramosi, rolandovegai, ronaldcastroi, ronaldgutierrezi, ronaldmurilloi, ronaldnavarroi, ronaldquirosi, ronaldzunigai, rosibelelizondoae, ruthfrancoae, sergiocascantei, sergioriosi, tiboshartae, vannesabrenesae, minornavarroi, victorbarrantesi, waldymedinai, wilbertharayai, williamcamposi, yeissonchavesi, yilbertalvaradoi, yolandarojasae, hazelcambroneroae, zeneidabolanosae.
["Apanteles"]

Two new species of oribatid mites of the family Galumnidae (Acari, Oribatida) from Vietnam
Two new species of oribatid mites of the family Galumnidae, Allogalumna monodactyla sp. n. and Galumna (Galumna) paracalcicola sp. n., are described from dark loamy soil under crown of Ficus sp. in southern Vietnam. Allogalumna monodactyla sp. n. is the first identified member of Allogalumna recorded for Vietnam. The identification keys to the species of Allogalumna from the Oriental region and species of Galumna (Galumna) from Vietnam and the calcicola-group are given.
["Oribatida"]

Two new species in the Echinoderes coulli group (Echinoderidae, Cyclorhagida, Kinorhyncha) from the Ryukyu Islands, Japan
Two new species belonging to the Echinoderes coulli group are described with their external morphologies and sequences of nuclear 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA genes, and mitochondrial COI gene. The first species, Echinoderes komatsui sp. n., is characterized by absence of acicular spines, and presence of lateroventral tubules on segments 5 and 8, laterodorsal tubules on segment 10, inverted triangle or wide oval shaped large sieve plates, lateral terminal accessory spines in female, and short tips of ventral pectinate fringe on segment 10. The second species, Echinoderes hwiizaa sp. n., is characterized by absence of acicular spines, and presence of lateroventral tubules on segments 5 and 7–9, midlateral tubules on segment 8, laterodorsal tubules on segment 10, large narrow oval shaped sieve plates on segment 9, and thick, short and blunt lateral terminal spines about 10–15% of trunk length. The diagnostic characters and key to species of E.coulli group are provided as well.
["Echinoderes"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

A new species of Gadirtha Walker (Nolidae, Eligminae): a proposed biological control agent of Chinese tallow (Triadica sebifera (L.) Small) (Euphorbiaceae) in the United States
Gadirtha fusca sp. n., is described from Guangxi Province, China. Gadirtha fusca differs in forewing color and pattern, male and female genitalia, and in larval pattern from all other species of Gadirtha. Gadirtha fusca has been evaluated as a potential biological control agent for Chinese tallow (Triadica sebifera (L.) Small, Euphorbiaceae) in the southeastern United States. Adult, male and female genitalia, larva, and pupa are described, illustrated, and compared with Gadirtha impingens Walker.
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

A remarkably modified species of the tribe Platynini (Coleoptera, Carabidae) from a limestone cave in Jiangxi Province, eastern China
Morimotoidius zhushandong sp. n. is described and illustrated from a limestone cave called Zhushan Dong II in Wanzhai Xian (=County) of western Jiangxi Province, eastern China. This species is the most modified species within the tribe Platynini in China byvery slender body and appendages, extremely elongated head, and especially, narrowed and barrel-liked pronotum which is as wide as head. However, the above derived characters are autapomorphies to adapt the subterranean environment. M. zhushandong sp. n. must be a troglobite though it has well pigmented body and flat eyes.
["Morimotoidius"]

New genera and species of Neotropical Exosternini (Coleoptera, Histeridae)
We describe the following 8 new genera and 23 new species of Neotropical Exosternini. Conocassis gen.n. (Conocassis minor sp. n. [type species], Conocassis dromedaria sp. n., Conocassis trisulcata sp. n., and Conocassis invaginata sp. n.), Enkyosoma gen. n. (Enkyosoma rockwelli sp. n.), Pluricosta gen. n. (Pluricosta onthophiloides sp. n.), Pyxister gen. n. (Pyxister devorator sp. n. [type species] and Pyxister labralis sp.n.), Chapischema gen. n. (Chapischema doppelganger sp. n.), Scaptorus gen. n. (Scaptorus pyramus sp. n.), Lacrimorpha gen. n. (Lacrimorpha glabra sp. n. [type species], Lacrimorpha balbina sp. n., Lacrimorpha subdepressa sp. n., and Lacrimorpha acuminata sp. n.), Crenulister gen. n. (Crenulister grossus sp. n. [type species], Crenulister explanatus sp. n., Crenulister dentatus sp. n., Crenulister impar sp. n., Crenulister umbrosus sp. n., Crenulister simplex sp. n., Crenulister paucitans sp. n., Crenulister spinipes sp. n., and Crenulister seriatus sp. n.) These all represent highly distinctive and phylogenetically isolated forms, almost invariably known from very few specimens. All but one species have been collected only by passive flight intercept traps, and nothing significant is known about the biology of any of them.
["Histeridae"]

The oribatid mite genus Papillocepheus (Acari, Oribatida, Tetracondylidae), with description
of a new species from southern Vietnam
The genus Papillocepheus is recorded in the Oriental region for the first time. A new species, Papillocepheus primus sp. n., is described from southern Vietnam; the description is based on specimens collected from semidecayed leaves and litter of Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve and Bu Gia Map National Park. The new generic diagnosis of Papillocepheus and an identification key to the known species of this genus are given.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Monograph of the Afrotropical species of Scelio Latreille (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae), egg parasitoids of acridid grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Acrididae)
The genus Scelio is a cosmopolitan and speciose group of solitary parasitoids of the eggs of short-horned grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acrididae). A number of these hosts are important pests, including plague locusts of the genus Schistocerca. Species of Scelio are recognized as potentially important biological control agents, but this possibility has yet to be fully realized, in part because the species-level taxonomy is still incompletely developed. The species of the pulchripennis group have been recently revised. As a continuation of this effort, here we revise the Afrotropical species of Scelio, excluding the pulchripennis species group. Sixty two (62) species are treated, 48 of which are new. Species are classified into the following species groups: ernstii (12 species, 9 new), howardi (23 species, 19 new), ipomeae (6 species, 5 new), irwini (4 species, 3 new), simoni (3 new species) and walkeri (12 species, 9 new). Keys to species groups and to the species within each group are provided. New species described are: S. albatus Yoder, sp. n., S. aphares Yoder, sp. n., S. apospastos Yoder, sp. n., S. ardelio Yoder, sp. n., S. aurantium Yoder, sp. n., S. balo Valerio & Yoder, sp. n., S. bayanga Yoder, sp. n., S. bubulo Yoder, sp. n., S. cano Yoder, sp. n., S. clypeatus Yoder, sp. n., S. concavus Yoder, sp. n., S. copelandi Yoder, sp. n., S. crepo Yoder, sp. n., S. destico Yoder, sp. n., S. dupondi Yoder, sp. n., S. effervesco Yoder, sp. n., S. erugatus Yoder, sp. n., S. exophthalmus Yoder, sp. n., S. fremo Valerio & Yoder, sp. n., S. gemo Yoder, sp. n., S. grunnio Yoder, sp. n., S. harinhalai Yoder, sp. n., S. igland Yoder, sp. n., S. impostor Yoder, sp. n., S. irwini Yoder, sp. n., S. janseni Yoder, sp. n., S. latro Yoder, sp. n., S. memorabilis Yoder, sp. n., S. modulus Yoder, sp. n., S. mutio Yoder, sp. n., S. ntchisii Yoder, sp. n., S. parkeri Yoder, sp. n., S. phaeoprora Yoder, sp. n., S. pilosilatus Yoder, sp. n., S. pipilo Yoder, sp. n., S. quasiclypeatus Yoder, sp. n., S. retifrons Yoder, sp. n., S. ructo Yoder, sp. n., S. scomma Yoder, sp. n., S. simoni Yoder, sp. n., S. simonolus Yoder, sp. n., S. somaliensis Yoder, sp. n., S. susurro Yoder, sp. n., S. tono Yoder, sp. n., S. transtrum Yoder, sp. n., S. tritus Yoder, sp. n., S. ululo Yoder, sp. n., S. vannoorti Valerio & Yoder, sp. n. The following species are redescribed: S. afer Kieffer, S. chapmani Nixon, S. howardi Crawford, S. ipomeae Risbec, stat. n., S. mauritanicus Risbec, S. philippinensis Ashmead, S. remaudierei Ferrière, S. striatus Priesner, S. taylori Nixon, and S. zolotarevskyi Ferrière. The genus Lepidoscelio Kieffer is treated as a junior synonym of Scelio Latreille, syn. n.; its type species, Lepidoscelio fuscipennis Kieffer, 1905 is transferred to Scelio, renamed Scelio obscuripennis Johnson, nom. n. (preoccupied by Scelio fuscipennis Ashmead, 1887), and redescribed. The following additional species are transferred from Lepidoscelio to Scelio: S. cayennensis (Risbec), comb. n., S. insularis Ashmead, rev. comb., S. luteus (Cameron), comb. n., S. thoracicus Ashmead, rev. comb. Lectotypes are designated for S. africanus Risbec, S. ipomeae Risbec, S. mauritanicus Risbec, S. remaudierei Ferrière, S. sudanensis Ferrière, and S. zolotarevskyi Ferrière. Scelio gaudens Nixon is a junior synonym of Scelio striatus Priesner, syn. n.; Scelio africanus Risbec and Scelio clarus Fouts are both junior synonyms of Scelio afer Kieffer, syn. n.; Scelio sudanensis Ferrière and Scelio cheops Nixon are both junior synonyms of Scelio zolotarevskyi Ferrière, syn. n.; Scelio cahirensis Priesner is a junior synonym of Scelio mauritanicus Risbec, syn. n. The name Scelio chapmanni Nixon is an incorrect original spelling, requiring an emendation to S. chapmani. Digital versions of the identification keys are available at http://www.waspweb.org/Platygastroidea/Keys/index.htm

A new cryptic Sympistis from eastern North America revealed by novel larval phenotype and host plant association (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Oncocnemidinae)
A Triosteum-feeding species of Sympistis is described from eastern North America: Sympistis forbesi sp. n. Identity of the new species is most reliably determined from larval morphology and host plant association—both adult scaling and genitalic characters overlap with those of Sympisitis chionanthi, a Chionanthus and Fraxinus feeder.

A new Hermeuptychia (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae) is sympatric and synchronic with H. sosybius in southeast US coastal plains, while another new Hermeuptychia species – not hermes – inhabits south Texas and northeast Mexico
Hermeuptychia intricata Grishin, sp. n. is described from the Brazos Bend State Park in Texas, United States, where it flies synchronously with Hermeuptychia sosybius (Fabricius, 1793). The two species differ strongly in both male and female genitalia and exhibit 3.5% difference in the COI barcode sequence of mitochondrial DNA. Setting such significant genitalic and genotypic differences aside, we were not able to find reliable wing pattern characters to tell a difference between the two species. This superficial similarity may explain why H. intricata, only distantly related to H. sosybius, has remained unnoticed until now, despite being widely distributed in the coastal plains from South Carolina to Texas, USA (and possibly to Costa Rica). Obscuring the presence of a cryptic species even further, wing patterns are variable in both butterflies and ventral eyespots vary from large to almost absent. To avoid confusion with the new species, neotype for Papilio sosybius Fabricius, 1793, a common butterfly that occurs across northeast US, is designated from Savannah, Georgia, USA. It secures the universally accepted traditional usage of this name. Furthermore, we find that DNA barcodes of Hermeuptychia specimens from the US, even those from extreme south Texas, are at least 4% different from those of H. hermes (Fabricius, 1775)—type locality Brazil: Rio de Janeiro—and suggest that the name H. hermes should not be used for USA populations, but rather reserved for the South American species. This conclusion is further supported by comparison of male genitalia. However, facies, genitalia and 2.1% different DNA barcodes set Hermeuptychia populations in the lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas apart from H. sosybius. These southern populations, also found in northeastern Mexico, are described here as Hermeuptychia hermybius Grishin, sp. n. (type locality Texas: Cameron County). While being phylogenetically closer to H. sosybius than to any other Hermeuptychia species, H. hermybius can usually be recognized by wing patterns, such as the size of eyespots and the shape of brown lines on hindwing. “Intricate Satyr” and “South Texas Satyr” are proposed as the English names for H. intricata and H. hermybius, respectively.

Revision of the genus Reichardtiolus Kryzhanovskij, 1959 (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Saprininae)
The genus Reichardtiolus Kryzhanovskij, 1959 is revised herein. It now contains five species: R. duriculus (Reitter, 1904) from middle Asia (with a doubtful female specimen from western China that is here tentatively assigned to this species), R. pavlovskii Kryzhanovskij, 1959 from Turkmenistan, R. sphingis (Peyerimhoff, 1936), comb. n. (transferred from Saprinus Erichson, 1834) from Egypt and Jordan, R. perses sp. n. from Iran and R. aldhaferi sp. n. from Saudi Arabia. Except for R. pavlovskii, which is a rather distinct species known only from two females, the remaining species are allopatric, very similar externally and are best separated from each other by their male terminalia. R. pavlovskii is kept in Reichardtiolus only tentatively, pending the examination of more specimens, and especially its male genitalia. R. duriculus and R. pavlovskii are re-described, while R. perses sp. n., R. aldhaferi sp. n. and R. sphingis comb. n. are provided with diagnostic descriptions because of their overall similarity with R. duriculus. Morphological differences of all species are illustrated using SEM micrographs. Male genitalia of R. duriculus, R. sphingis comb. n., R. perses sp. n. and R. aldhaferi sp. n. are illustrated and a key to the species is given. R. duriculus is newly recorded from Tajikistan.

A taxonomic study of Chinese species of the insidiosus group of Metaphycus (Hymenoptera, Encyrtidae)
In this paper, twelve insidiosus-group species of the genus Metaphycus Mercet from China are reviewed. Five species, M. corniae sp. n., M. cylindricus sp. n., M. deltoideus sp. n., M. transversus sp. n. and M. yaanensis sp. n., are described as new to science. A key to the females of these species is given to facilitate species recognition. Photomicrographs are provided to illustrate morphological characters of these species. All specimens, unless otherwise specified, are deposited in the National Zoological Museum of China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing.
["Research on scale insects", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Description of Oculogryphus shuensis sp. n. (Coleoptera, Lampyridae), the first species of the genus in the Sino-Japanese realm, with a modified key to the subfamily Ototretinae
A new species of the lampyrid genus Oculogryphus Jeng, Engel, and Yang, O. shuensis sp. n. from China (Sichuan Province) is described and figured. The genus previously was known only from Vietnam, and the new species is the first representative of the genus in the Sino-Japanese zoogeographic realm. Some morphological variations of Oculogryphus and the allied genus Stenocladius are discussed and a modification to the most recent key to ototretine genera is proposed to accommodate Oculogryphus.
["Oculogryphus"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Nannodromus reveilleti (Acari, Anystida, Saxidromidae) a new genus and species from South Africa
The description of a new genus Nannodromus and a new species Nannodromus reveilleti (Acari: Anystides: Saxidromidae) from South Africa, based on adult males and females.
["Study of Mite Species", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new subspecies of Nitokra affinis Gurney, 1927 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from the Caribbean coast of Colombia
Plankton samples from Laguna Navio Quebrado, La Guajira, northern Colombia, yielded male and female specimens of an harpacticoid copepod that was first identified as the widely distributed species Nitokra affinis Gurney, 1927 for which at least four subspecies have been described from different geographic areas. A more detailed examination of the Colombian specimens revealed that it differs from the other morphs so far considered as subspecies. The Colombian specimens differ from the other four known subspecies in the following aspects: (1) rostrum with long projection, (2) relatively long exopod of P1, almost as long as first endopodal segment, (3) endopodal and exopodal rami of P2 equally long, (4) a reduced number of endopodal setal elements of the male P5. It also differs from N. a. californica Lang in details of the ornamentation of the urosomites. Descriptions and illustrations of this new subspecies, the first one described from the Neotropical region, are presented together with a key to the five known subspecies of Nitokra affinis. As in many other cases of presumedly widespread species of harpacticoids, it is possible that N. affinis represents a species complex with more restricted distributional patterns, a notion that certainly deserves further study.
["Harpacticoids"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A nomenclator of extant and fossil taxa of the Valvatidae (Gastropoda, Ectobranchia)
A compilation of all supra- and (infra-) specific taxa of extant and fossil Valvatidae, a group of freshwater operculate snails, is provided, including taxa initially described in this family and subsequently classified in other families, as well as names containing errors or misspellings. The extensive reference list is directly linked to the available electronic source (digital view or pdf-download) of the respective papers.

Review and redescription of species in the Oecetis avara group, with the description of 15 new species (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae)
The O. avara group of Oecetis is formally defined to include 4 described species, O. avara (Banks), O. disjuncta (Banks), O. elata Denning & Sykora, and O. metlacenis Bueno-Soria, and 15 new species. Oecetis marquesi Bueno-Soria, previously considered a member of the O. avara group, is treated as incertae sedis to species group, but is also redescribed and treated in the current work. New species described here (with their respective distributions) include: O. acciptrina (Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador), O. agosta (Mexico), O. angularis (Guatemala to Ecuador), O. apache (SW USA), O. campana (Ecuador), O. constricta (Mexico to Ecuador, Venezuela, and Trinidad), O. houghtoni (North America), O. maritza (Costa Rica), O. mexicana (Mexico to Ecuador), O. patula (Guatemala, Nicaragua), O. protrusa (Mexico to Ecuador), O. sordida (Mexico, USA, Canada), O. tumida (Costa Rica), O. uncata (Costa Rica), and O. verrucula (Mexico to Costa Rica). A key to the species is also provided.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Acanoides gen. n., a new spider genus from China with a note on the taxonomic status of Acanthoneta Eskov & Marusik, 1992 (Araneae, Linyphiidae, Micronetinae)
A new “micronetine” genus Acanoides gen. n. is erected to accommodate two species from China: Acanoides beijingensis sp. n. as the type species and Acanoides hengshanensis (Chen & Yin, 2000), comb. n., with the females described for the first time. The genitalic characters and somatic features of the new genus were studied by means of light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The monophyly of the new genus was tested by a phylogenetic analysis based on molecular data. Descriptions of the new genus, the new species and the new combination are presented; SEM images and microscopy pictures of somatic and genitalic characters are provided in detail. To distinguish from other genera with similar genitalic characters, we compare the new genus with the species of Acanthoneta Eskov & Marusik, 1992, Epibellowia Tanasevitch, 1996 and Wubanoides Eskov, 1986. Four putative synapomorphies for Acanoides gen. n. are suggested to support its monophyly that could be tested in the future. Furthermore, redescriptions of the epigynal morphology of Acanthoneta aggressa Chamberlin & Ivie, 1943 (Nearctic) and on the male of A. dokutchaevi Eskov & Marusik, 1993 (Far East Asia, firstly recorded from China) are provided. Based on comparison with Poeciloneta, from which Acanthoneta stat. n. was separated by Saaristo and Tanasevitch (1996), a revised diagnosis is proposed to support the generic status.

Systematics of the Neotropical genus Catharylla Zeller (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae s. l., Crambinae)
The Neotropical genus Catharylla Zeller, 1863 (type species: Crambus tenellus Zeller, 1839) is redescribed. Catharylla contiguella Zeller, 1872, C. interrupta Zeller, 1866 and Myelois sericina Zeller, 1881, included by Munroe (1995) in Catharylla, are moved to Argyria Hübner. Catharylla paulella Schaus, 1922 and C.tenellus (Zeller, 1839) are redescribed. Six new species are described by Léger and Landry: C. bijuga, C.chelicerata, C. coronata, C. gigantea, C. mayrabonillae and C. serrabonita. The phylogenetic relationships were investigated using morphological as well as molecular data (COI, wingless, EF-1α genes). The median and subterminal transverse lines of the forewing as well as the short anterior and posterior apophyses of the female genitalia are characteristic of the genus. The monophyly of Catharylla was recovered in all phylogenetic analyses of the molecular and the combined datasets, with three morphological apomorphies highlighted. Phylogenetic analyses of the morphology of the two sexes recovered three separate species groups within Catharylla: the chelicerata, the mayrabonillae, and the tenellus species groups. The possible position of Micrelephas Schaus, 1922 as sister to Catharylla, based on both morphological and molecular data, and the status of tribe Argyriini are discussed. The biogeographical data indicate that the chelicerata species group is restricted to the Guyanas and the Amazonian regions whereas the tenellus group is restricted to the Atlantic Forest in the South-Eastern part of Brazil. The mayrabonillae group is widespread from Costa Rica to South Bolivia with an allopatric distribution of the two species. COI barcode sequences indicate relatively strong divergence within C. bijuga, C. mayrabonillae, C. serrabonita and C. tenellus.
["Argyria"]

Cirolana songkhla, a new species of brackish-water cirolanid isopod (Crustacea, Isopoda, Cirolanidae) from the lower Gulf of Thailand
Cirolana songkhla sp. n. was collected from brackish-water habitats including lagoons and estuaries in the coastal zone of the lower Gulf of Thailand. C. songkhla sp. n. is described and fully illustrated; C. songkhla sp. n. can be recognized by the presence of abundant chromatophores dorsally, lack of ornamentation on the posterior pereonites, pleonites and pleotelson, the number of robust setae on the uropodal and pleotelson margins (uropod exopod lateral margin with 12–14 RS, mesial margin with 5–8 RS; endopod lateral margin with 8–10 RS, mesial margin with 11–13 RS; pleotelson with 12–15 RS) and lack of setae on the endopods of pleopods 3–5. A dichotomous key of brackish Cirolana species in Thailand is given.

Reassessment of the taxonomic position of Iranocypris typhlops Bruun & Kaiser, 1944 (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae)
The Iranian cave barb (Iranocypris typhlops Bruun & Kaiser, 1944) is a rare and endemic species of the family Cyprinidae known from a single locality in the Zagros Mountains, western Iran. This species is “Vulnerable” according to the IUCN Red List and is one of the top four threatened freshwater fish species in Iran. Yet, the taxonomic position of I. typhlops is uncertain. We examined phylogenetic relationships of this species with other species of the family Cyprinidae based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. Our results show that I. typhlops is monophyletic and is sister taxon of a cluster formed by Garra rufa (Heckel, 1843) and Garra barreimiae (Fowler & Steinitz, 1956) within a clade that includes other species of the genus Garra. Based on previous molecular and morphological studies, as well as our new results, we recommend that I. typhlops should be transferred to the genus Garra Hamilton, 1822.
["Iranian cave barb"]

Description and DNA barcoding of Crematogaster fraxatrix Forel, 1911 and two new closely related species from Cambodia and Indonesia (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Crematogaster fraxatrix Forel, 1911 and two new species, C. chhangi sp. n. and C. simboloni sp. n., are described from Cambodia and Indonesia, respectively. DNA sequences were generated for C. fraxarix and the two newly described species using 3 amplications of two regions of the mitochondrial gene COI with a total of 1129 bp. The mean interspecific divergences are 9.4 % and 23.5 % for C. fraxatrix vs. C. chhangi, C. simboloni, respectively. DNA sequences reveal that C. simboloni is found to be genetically distinct from the other two species, but C. chhangi is not distinct from C. fraxatrix.
["Crematogaster fraxatrix"]

Redescription of Japanagromyza inferna Spencer, first recorded from Brazil, and a key to the Neotropical species of Japanagromyza Sasakawa (Diptera, Agromyzidae)
Japanagromyza inferna Spencer is recorded for the first time from Brazil, in the North coast of the State of Rio de Janeiro, inducing galls in Centrosema virginianum L. (Fabaceae). The species is redescribed, with illustrations of male and female terminalia. A key to the identification of the Neotropical species of Japanagromyza Sasakawa is presented.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

The millipede genus Orthomorpha Bollman, 1893 in Laos (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae), with descriptions of new species
The genus Orthomorpha is currently represented in Laos by nine species, including three, O. paviei Brölemann, 1896, O. communis Likhitrakarn, Golovatch & Panha, 2011 and O. cambodjana (Attems, 1953), which are new to the fauna of the country, and further three new to science: O. suberectoides sp. n., O.gladiata sp. n. and O. sutchariti sp. n.

A preliminary report on the distribution of lizards in Qatar
We have updated the list of the lizard species present in Qatar and produced the first distribution maps based on two field surveys in 2012 and 2013. We used the QND95/Qatar National Grid with a grid of 10 × 10 km squares for mapping. Our results show the occurrence of 21 lizard species in Qatar, from the 15 species indicated in the last biodiversity report conducted in 2004. The most abundant family found in Qatar is Gekkonidae with nine species (Bunopus tuberculatus, Cyrtopodion scabrum, Hemidactylus robustus, H. flaviviridis, H. persicus, Stenodactylus arabicus, S. slevini, S. doriae, Pseudoceramodactylus khobarensis), followed by Lacertidae with four species (Acanthodactylus schmidti, A. opheodurus, Mesalina brevirostris, M. adramitana), Agamidae with three species (Trapelus flavimaculatus, Uromastyx aegyptia, Phrynocephalus arabicus), Scincidae with two species (Scincus mitranus, Trachylepis septemtaeniata), and Varanidae (Varanus griseus), Sphaerodactylidae (Pristurus rupestris) and Trogonophiidae (Diplometopon zarudnyi) with one species each. The species richness fluctuated largely across Qatar between one and eleven species per grid square. We believe that the lizard fauna records in Qatar are still incomplete and that additional studies are required. However, our study here fills a gap concerning lizard biodiversity knowledge in the Gulf Region.
["Reptilia"]

Morphogenia: a new genus of the Neotropical tribe Jubini (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from the Brazilian Amazon
A new genus and species of the large Neotropical pselaphine tribe Jubini is described from Manaus, Brazil, based on material preserved in the Natural History Museum, London. Morphogenia struhli gen. et sp. n. represents the possible sister taxon of the abundant and speciose genus Barrojuba Park, sharing with it the putatively derived condition of anterolaterally shifted vertexal foveae, producing a smoothly convex vertex devoid of fovea or sulci. However, unlike Barrojuba, Morphogenia retains a plesiomorphic antebasal sulcus on the pronotum in both sexes, and additionally lacks elaborate abdominal fovea-like pockets and teeth on the lateral margins of the pronotum that are typical of Barrojuba. The genus is also unusual among jubine genera in lacking the characteristic V- or Y-shaped gular carina. In contrast to the commonly-collected Barrojuba, specimens of Morphogenia are absent in extensive jubine collections housed in museums in the United States, indicating that the new taxon may be relatively scarce or localised.
["Pselaphinae"]

Contributions to the knowledge of the Chinese Primeuchroeus Linsenmaier, 1968 (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae), with a key to species
The genus Primeuchroeus Linsenmaier, 1968 from China is revised and an illustrated identification key is produced for the first time. Three species are recorded from China, with one species, Primeuchroeus yongdaerianus Kim, new to China.
["Chrysididae"]

A revision of the octocoral genus Ovabunda (Alderslade, 2001) (Anthozoa, Octocorallia, Xeniidae)
The family Xeniidae (Octocorallia) constitutes an abundant benthic component on many Indo-West Pacific coral reefs and is ecologically important in the Red Sea. The genus Ovabunda Alderslade, 2001 was recently established to accommodate previous Xenia species with sclerites comprised of a mass of minute corpuscle-shaped microscleres. The aim of the present study was to examine type material of Xenia species in order to verify their generic affiliation. We present here a comprehensive account of the genus Ovabunda, using scanning electron microscopy to depict sclerite microstructure. We assign three Xenia species to the genus: O. ainex comb. n., O. gohari comb. n., and O. crenata comb. n.; and synonymize several other species of Ovabunda. We provide a key to Ovabunda species and conclude that they are mainly confined to the Red Sea, with some occurrence in the West Indian Ocean.
["Red Sea"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Studies on California ants: a review of the genus Temnothorax (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The following ten new species of the ant genus Temnothorax are described and illustrated: T. anaphalantus (California, Baja California), T. arboreus (California), T. caguatan (Oregon, California, Baja California), T.morongo (California, Baja California), T. myrmiciformis (California, Baja California), T. nuwuvi (Nevada), T. paiute (California, Nevada), T. pseudandrei (Arizona, California), T. quasimodo (California) and T. wardi (California). A key to workers of the twenty-two Temnothorax species known or expected to occur in California is provided.

The second confirmed record of the scorpion genus Chactas Gervais, 1844 (Scorpiones, Chactidae) from Ecuador with description of a new species from the Amazonian Province of Sucumbíos
A new species, Chactas moreti sp. n., is described from Ecuadorian Amazonia. It can be distinguished from Chactas mahnerti Lourenço, 1995, the other known species of this genus from Ecuador by its smaller body size, distinct morphometric values, overall darker blackish-brown coloration, totally smooth vesicle, and a concave anterior margin of carapace. This is the second confirmed record of the genus Chactas Gervais from Ecuador. The geographical pattern of distribution of the genus is also discussed.
["Scorpiones"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Rabies epidemiology and control"]

Revision of three camaenid and one bradybaenid species (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora) from China based on morphological and molecular data, with description of a new bradybaenid subspecies from Inner Mongolia, China
We have revised the taxonomy of three camaenid and one bradybaenid species from China and described one new subspecies of the genus Bradybaena (Family Bradybaenidae) from Inner Mongolia, China. The genitalia of three Satsuma (Family Camaenidae) species S. mellea stenozona (Moellendorff, 1884), S. meridionalis (Moellendorff, 1884), comb. n. and S. uncopila (Heude, 1882), comb. n. assigned to the genus Bradybaena previously, lack a dart sac and mucous glands. Moreover, the molecular phylogeny has revealed close relationships between the three species and the genus Satsuma. Two species, S. stenozona (Moellendorff, 1884) from Fuzhou and Ganesella citrina Zilch, 1940 from Wuyi Mountain, are considered as synonymous and should be a subspecies of S. mellea mellea (Pfeiffer, 1866) because of the morphological and molecular similarities. Meanwhile, the other two are placed in the genus Satsuma: S. meridionalis (Moellendorff, 1884), comb. n. and S. uncopila (Heude, 1882), comb. n. G. virgo Pilsbry, 1927 differs from species of the genera Ganesella and Satsuma not only in its shell, but also in anatomical characters, such asa dart sac and mucous gland, and lacking a flagellum. Additionally, phylogenetic analyses highly support the sister relationship with other Bradybaena species. Thus, placement of G. virgo Pilsbry, 1927 in the genus Bradybaena is suggested.
["Satsuma"]

The “Fungia patella group” (Scleractinia, Fungiidae) revisited with a description of the mini mushroom coral Cycloseris boschmai sp. n.
The recent taxonomic history of extant free-living Cycloseris species is briefly reviewed, resulting in the description of Cycloseris boschmai sp. n. (Scleractinia, Fungiidae) and a discussion on the validity of two other recently described species. Some Cycloseris species were previously considered to belong to the Fungia patella group, which also concerned misidentified museum specimens that actually belong to the new species. Other specimens of C. boschmai sp. n. were photographed and collected in the course of 30 years of fieldwork. The new mushroom coral is compared with other free-living Cycloseris species by means of an identification key. With a maximum diameter of 50 mm, it is the smallest free-living mushroom coral discovered so far. It can also be distinguished by its large primary order costae and variable colouration. Its distribution range is limited to the Coral Triangle, where it can be observed as an uncommon species on lower reef slopes.
["Coral reef"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

A new species of the Rhinella margaritifera species group (Anura, Bufonidae) from the montane forest of the Selva Central, Peru
We describe a new species of the bufonid toad genus Rhinella from transition montane forest of the buffer zones of the Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park and the Pui Pui Protected Forest (eastern slopes of Andes, Selva Central, Peru). The new species belongs to the Rhinella margaritifera species group (confirmed by mtDNA data) and differs from all its members by the absence of tympanic membrane and tympanic annulus. It is characterized by medium size (SVL 57.5–65.5 mm, n = 5), moderately developed cranial crests, absence of neural crest of vertebrae, absence of bone protrusion at angle of jaw, presence of lateral rows of enlarged tubercles, and absence of subgular vocal sac and vocal slits in males. In addition, based on the molecular phylogenetic analyses of selected Rhinella species we propose the monophylum containing R. chavin, R. festae, R. macrorhina, R. manu, R. nesiotes, R. rostrata, and R. yanachaga as a new species group under the name Rhinella festae species group.

Brachymyrmex species with tumuliform metathoracic spiracles: description of three new species and discussion of dimorphism in the genus (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Brachymyrmex is a taxonomically challenging ant genus that is badly in need of review. Most species are very small and soft bodied and current descriptions regularly lack clarity making species identification a daunting task. Furthermore, the monophyly of Brachymyrmex has not been established and the relationships among its species and with closely related genera are poorly understood. Most species of Brachymyrmex are monomorphic, but two dimorphic species have been assigned to the genus before. Here, we redescribe these dimorphic taxa, B. pilipes and B. micromegas, and describe three new monomorphic species, B. brasiliensis sp. n., B. delabiei sp. n. and B. feitosai sp. n. All five species occur in Brazil and have tumuliform metathoracic spiracles, which are lacking in other Brachymyrmex species. We discuss dimorphism and its evolution in the genus and provide a distribution map, illustrations and a species identification key based on workers.

First record of the polychaete Ficopomatus uschakovi (Pillai, 1960) (Annelida, Serpulidae) in the Colombian Caribbean, South America
The genus Ficopomatus (Serpulidae) consists of sessile, tubicolous polychaete annelid worms that may colonize a diversity of substrata, and tolerate considerable variations in salinity. Thus, members of this genus, including Ficopomatus uschakovi, in some cases are exotic and maybe invasive. The purpose of our research was to collect and identify marine organisms associated with the submerged roots of mangrove trees in the Gulf of Urabá, Colombian Caribbean, South America. Within the Gulf, there is a well-developed forest of the Red Mangrove, Rhizophora mangle, along the margins of El Uno Bay. We sampled the roots of R. mangle from five stations of the bay, and we identified specimens of F. uschakovi from each of those stations. Ficopomatus uschakovi was found to be more abundant in regions of the bay that exhibit the lowest salinity. Based on a morphological comparison of the present specimens with the original species description, revised descriptions, and other records from the Indo-West Pacific, Mexican Pacific, and Venezuelan and Brazilian Caribbean, we suggest that F. uschakovi has a broader geographical distribution. Furthermore, because of this broad distribution, and the observed tolerance for low salinity in our study, we also suggest that F. uschakovi is a euryhaline species. It is also likely that F. uschakovi will be found in other localities in the Gulf of Urabá, and in other regions of the Colombian Caribbean. Thus, this record extends the distribution of the species to the Colombian Caribbean, giving the species a continuous distribution across the northern coast of South America.
["Euryhaline"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Systematics of treefrogs of the Hypsiboas calcaratus and Hypsiboas fasciatus species complex (Anura, Hylidae) with the description of four new species
We review the systematics of the Hypsiboas calcaratus species complex, a group of widely distributed Amazonian hylid frogs. A comprehensive analysis of genetic, morphological, and bioacoustic datasets uncovered the existence of eleven candidate species, six of which are confirmed. Two of them correspond to Hypsiboas fasciatus and Hypsiboas calcaratus and the remaining four are new species that we describe here. Hypsiboas fasciatus sensu stricto has a geographic range restricted to the eastern Andean foothills of southern Ecuador while Hypsiboas calcaratus sensu stricto has a wide distribution in the Amazon basin. Hypsiboas almendarizae sp. n. occurs at elevations between 500 and 1950 m in central and northern Ecuador; the other new species (H. maculateralis sp. n., H. alfaroi sp. n., and H. tetete sp. n.) occur at elevations below 500 m in Amazonian Ecuador and Peru. The new species differ from H. calcaratus and H. fasciatus in morphology, advertisement calls, and mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences. Five candidate species from the Guianan region, Peru, and Bolivia are left as unconfirmed. Examination of the type material of Hyla steinbachi, from Bolivia, shows that it is not conspecific with H. fasciatus and thus is removed from its synonymy.

Description and biology of two new species of Neotropical Liriomyza Mik (Diptera, Agromyzidae), mining leaves of Bocconia (Papaveraceae)
Liriomyza mystica Boucher & Nishida, sp. n., and Liriomyza prompta Boucher & Nishida, sp. n. are described from Costa Rica. Both species were reared from leaves of Bocconia frutescens L. (Papaveraceae). The latter species was also reared from B. arborea S. Watson. Larvae of L. mystica mine primary veins of large, relatively old, mature leaves, and L. prompta mine blades of small to large, mature leaves. These represent the first record of agromyzids feeding on Bocconia. Biological information is also given and illustrated.
["Biocontrol of weeds"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

First song descriptions of some Anatolian species of Tettigoniidae Krauss, 1902 (Orthoptera, Ensifera)
Fourteen endemic and two sub-endemic species belonging to three subfamilies of Tettigoniidae (Tettigoniinae, Bradyporinae and Saginae) were sampled during field trips throughout the different ranges of Anatolia between the years of 2004 and 2013. Acoustic parameters of these 16 species affiliated to 8 genera (Anterastes, Apholidoptera, Gampsocleis, Parapholidoptera, Pezodrymadusa, Psorodonotus, Bradyporus and Saga) have been described for the first time in this study. Acoustical analysis showed that song characters are species-specific in the genera Saga and Psorodonotus. On the other hand, we could not find big differences among species of the genus Pezodrymadusa and Parapholidoptera castaneoviridis species-group.
["Acoustic analysis"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Temnothorax pilagens sp. n. – a new slave-making species of the tribe Formicoxenini from North America (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
A new species of the ant genus Temnothorax Forel, 1890 – Temnothorax pilagens sp. n. is described from eastern North America. T. pilagens sp. n. is an obligate slave-making ant with two known hosts: T. longispinosus (Roger, 1863) and T. ambiguus (Emery, 1895). A differential diagnosis against Temnothorax duloticus (Wesson, 1937), the other dulotic congener from the Nearctic, is presented and a biological characteristics of the new species is given.
["Temnothorax"]

Distribution and nests of paper wasps of Polistes (Polistella) in northeastern Vietnam, with description of a new species (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Polistinae)
Seven species of the subgenus Polistella Ashmead of the genus Polistes Latreille including a new species, P.brunetus Nguyen & Kojima, sp. n. described here, are recognized to occur in northeastern Vietnam, the easternmost part of the eastern slope of the Himalayas. A key to these species is provided. Their distributional records are remarked. Nests of P. delhiensis Das & Gupta, P. mandarinus de Saussure and P.brunetus are also described.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Genus Indiopius Fischer, 1966 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Opiinae) in Iran with a key to the world species
The Iranian species belonging to the genus Indiopius Fischer are reviewed. A description of the first recorded female of I. cretensis Fischer, 1966 is provided. A key to the world species of the genus Indiopius is given.

Spatial distribution of fifty ornamental fish species on coral reefs in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden
The spatial distribution of 50 ornamental fish species from shallow water habitats on coral reefs were investigated using visual census techniques, between latitudes 11−29°N in the Red Sea, in Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, and in the adjacent Gulf of Aden in Djibouti. One hundred eighteen transects (each 100×5 m) were examined in 29 sites (3−8 sites per country). A total of 522,523 fish individuals were counted during this survey, with mean abundance of 4428.2 ± 87.26 individual per 500 m² transect. In terms of relative abundance (RA), the most abundant species were Blue green damselfish, Chromis viridis (RA=54.4%), followed by Sea goldie, Pseudanthias squamipinnis (RA= 34.7), Whitetail dascyllus, Dascyllus aruanus (RA= 2.6%), Marginate dascyllus, Dascyllus marginatus (RA= 2.0), Red Sea eightline flasher Paracheilinus octotaenia (RA=1.0), and Klunzinger’s wrasse, Thalassoma rueppellii (0.7%). The highest number of species (S) per 500 m² transect was found on reefs at the latitude 20° in Saudi Arabia (S=21.8), and the lowest number of species was found at the latitude 15° in Djibouti (S=11.11). The highest mean abundance (8565.8) was found on reefs at latitude 20° in Saudi Arabia and the lowest mean abundance (230) was found on reefs at latitude 22°, also in Saudi Arabia. Whereas, the highest Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index was found in reefs at the latitude 22° (H`=2.4) and the lowest was found in reefs at the latitude 20° (H`=0.6). This study revealed marked differences in the structure of ornamental fish assemblages with latitudinal distribution. The data support the presence of two major biogeographic groups of fishes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden: the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden group and the group in the northern and central Red Sea. Strong correlations were found between live coral cover and the number of fish species, abundance and Shannon-Wiener Diversity indices, and the strength of these correlations varied among the reefs. A conclusion was done that environmental differences among the reefs and the habitats investigated were important components of abundance variations and species diversity of ornamental fish along latitudinal gradients in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
["Fish community structure"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Taxonomic note on the genus Taiwanocantharis Wittmer: synonym, new species and additional faunistic records from China (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
Taiwanocantharis thibetanomima (Wittmer, 1997) is redefined and its type series is clarified. Three new species are described and illustrated, T. wittmeri sp. n. (CHINA: Yunnan), T. adentata sp. n. (CHINA: Gansu, Sichuan) and T. parasatoi sp. n. (CHINA: Guangxi). T. gansosichuana (Kazantsev, 2010) is synonymized with T. drahuska (Švihla, 2004). T. dedicata (Švihla, 2005) and T. malaisei (Wittmer, 1989) are recorded to China for the first time. A key to the species of the Taiwanocantharis thibetana species-group is provided.
["Cantharidae"]

A new species of Phymatodes Mulsant (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) from China
A new species, Phymatodes (Poecilium) latefasciatus, sp. n. (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae, Callidiini) from China is described and illustrated. Features distinguishing the new species from its congeners are presented.
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of Tamarixia Mercet (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae), parasitoid of Trioza aguacate Hollis & Martin (Hemiptera, Triozidae) in Mexico
Tamarixia aguacatensis Yefremova, sp. n. (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae: Tetrastichinae) is described from Mexico as a parasitoid of the avocado psyllid, Trioza aguacate Hollis & Martin (Hemiptera: Triozidae). Trioza aguacate is a serious pest of avocado, Persea americana Miller. A key to the species of Tamarixia Mercet in Mexico is given.

A new species of Amphictene (Annelida, Pectinariidae) from the Gulf of Mexico, with a redescription of Amphictene guatemalensis (Nilsson, 1928)
The genus Amphictene is reported for the first time from Mexico. Previous records for America are restricted to Brazil (A. catharinensis) (Grube, 1870), and Guatemala (A. guatemalensis) (Nilsson, 1928). In this paper we describe a new species, Amphictene helenae sp. n., characterized by the presence of three pairs of tentacular cirri, while other species have only two pairs. The new species is closely similar to Amphictene catharinensis, and can be distinguished by the presence of a circular group of glandular papillae inserted between the lines of glandular cirri present from the second segment. A. guatemalensis is redescribed based on type material; it differs from the new species in the presence of two pairs of tentacular cirri on segments 1 and 2, six pairs of glandular cirri on the third segment, and four glandular lobes fused in pairs on the fourth segment.

Cyphoderus (Cyphoderidae) as a major component of collembolan cave fauna in Thailand, with description of two new species
Distinguishing features of Cyphoderus Collembola of the bidenticulati group are described. Taxonomic problems in the bidenticulati group of Cyphoderus are emphasized, and new characters of taxonomic value are introduced and discussed. Two new species are described from caves of Thailand, differing mainly in claw morphology.

Trogossitidae: A review of the beetle family, with a catalogue and keys
The family Trogossitidae (Coleoptera: Cleroidea) is reviewed to species level. Keys to its genera, tribes and subfamilies are presented for the first time. All known species and subspecies are listed, together with complete taxonomic references back to 1910, the date of issue of the last catalogue of Trogossitidae. Higher taxa reviews are accompanied by remarks on phylogeny, distribution and biology as well as a brief description of adults and larvae. All known fossil records of Trogossitidae are reviewed and discussed. The work includes maps of distribution, colour photographs of generic representatives, morphological illustrations, SEM photographs and phylogenetic trees.

DNA barcodes identify Central-Asian Colias butterflies (Lepidoptera, Pieridae)
A majority of the known Colias species (Lepidoptera: Pieridae, Coliadinae) occur in the mountainous regions of Central-Asia, vast areas that are hard to access, rendering the knowledge of many species limited due to the lack of extensive sampling. Two gene regions, the mitochondrial COI ‘barcode’ region and the nuclear ribosomal protein RpS2 gene region were used for exploring the utility of these DNA markers for species identification. A comprehensive sampling of COI barcodes for Central-Asian Colias butterflies showed that the barcodes facilitated identification of most of the included species. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on parsimony and Neighbor-Joining recovered most species as monophyletic entities. For the RpS2 gene region species-specific sequences were registered for some of the included Colias spp. Nevertheless, this gene region was not deemed useful as additional molecular ‘barcode’. A parsimony analysis of the combined COI and RpS2 data did not support the current subgeneric classification based on morphological characteristics.

DNA barcoding and the differentiation between North American and West European Phormia regina (Diptera, Calliphoridae, Chrysomyinae)
Phormia regina (the black fly) is a common Holarctic blow fly species which serves as a primary indicator taxon to estimate minimal post mortem intervals. It is also a major research model in physiological and neurological studies on insect feeding. Previous studies have shown a sequence divergence of up to 4.3% in the mitochondrial COI gene between W European and N American P. regina populations. Here, we DNA barcoded P. regina specimens from six N American and 17 W European populations and confirmed a mean sequence divergence of ca. 4% between the populations of the two continents, while sequence divergence within each continent was a ten-fold lower. Comparable mean mtDNA sequence divergences were observed for COII (3.7 %) and cyt b (5.3 %), but mean divergence was lower for 16S (0.4–0.6 %). Intercontinental divergence at nuclear DNA was very low (≤ 0.1 % for both 28S and ITS2), and we did not detect any morphological differentiation between N American and W European specimens. Therefore, we consider the strong differentiation at COI, COII and cyt b as intraspecific mtDNA sequence divergence that should be taken into account when using P. regina in forensic casework or experimental research.
["Black fly"]

Testing the performance of a fragment of the COI gene to identify western Palaearctic stag beetle species (Coleoptera, Lucanidae)
The taxonomy of stag beetles (Coleoptera: Lucanidae) remains challenging, mainly due to the sexual dimorphism and the strong allometry in males. Such conjecture confounds taxonomic based conservation efforts that are urgently needed due to numerous threats to stag beetle biodiversity. Molecular tools could help solve the problem of identification of the different recognized taxa in the “Lucanus cervus complex” and in some related Palaearctic species. We investigated the potential use of a 670 bp region at the 3’ end of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene (COI) for barcoding purposes (different from the standard COI barcoding region). Well resolved species and subspecies were L. tetraodon, L. cervus akbesianus, L. c. laticornis, as well as the two eastern Asian outgroup taxa L. formosanus and L. hermani. Conversely, certain taxa could not be distinguished from each other based on K2P distances and tree topologies: L. c. fabiani / L. (P.) barbarossa, L. c. judaicus / an unknown Lucanus species, L. c. cervus / L. c. turcicus / L. c. pentaphyllus / L. (P.) macrophyllus / L. ibericus. The relative roles of phenotypic plasticity, recurrent hybridisation and incomplete lineage sorting underlying taxonomic and phylogenetic discordances are discussed.
["Lucanus spp."]

DNA barcoding of Dutch birds
The mitochondrial cytochrome c-oxidase subunit I (COI) can serve as a fast and accurate marker for the identification of animal species, and has been applied in a number of studies on birds. We here sequenced the COI gene for 387 individuals of 147 species of birds from the Netherlands, with 83 species being represented by >2 sequences. The Netherlands occupies a small geographic area and 95% of all samples were collected within a 50 km radius from one another. The intraspecific divergences averaged 0.29% among this assemblage, but most values were lower; the interspecific divergences averaged 9.54%. In all, 95% of species were represented by a unique barcode, with 6 species of gulls and skua (Larus and Stercorarius)at least one shared barcode. This is best explained by these species representing recent radiations with ongoing hybridization. In contrast, one species, the Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca showed deep divergences, averaging 5.76% and up to 8.68% between individuals. These possibly represent two distinct taxa, S. curruca and S. blythi, both clearly separated in a haplotype network analysis. Our study adds to a growing body of DNA barcodes that have become available for birds, and shows that a DNA barcoding approach enables to identify known Dutch bird species with a very high resolution. In addition some species were flagged up for further detailed taxonomic investigation, illustrating that even in ornithologically well-known areas such as the Netherlands, more is to be learned about the birds that are present.
["Aves"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Integrative taxonomy and preliminary assessment of species limits in the Liolaemus walkeri complex (Squamata, Liolaemidae) with descriptions of three new species from Peru
Species delimitation studies based on integrative taxonomic approaches have received considerable attention in the last few years, and have provided the strongest hypotheses of species boundaries. We used three lines of evidence (molecular, morphological, and niche envelopes) to test for species boundaries in Peruvian populations of the Liolaemus walkeri complex. Our results show that different lines of evidence and analyses are congruent in different combinations, for unambiguous delimitation of three lineages that were “hidden” within known species, and now deserve species status. Our phylogenetic analysis shows that L. walkeri, L. tacnae and the three new species are strongly separated from other species assigned to the alticolor-bibronii group. Few conventional morphological characters distinguish the new species from closely related taxa and this highlights the need to integrate other sources of data to erect strong hypothesis of species limits. A taxonomic key for known Peruvian species of the subgenus Lioalemus is provided.
["Liolaemus walkeri complex"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Pseudouroctonus peccatum, a new scorpion from the Spring Mountains near "Sin City," Nevada (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae)
A new scorpion species is described from the Spring Mountain Range near Las Vegas, Nevada. The new species appears to be geographically isolated from other closely related species of Uroctonites Williams & Savary and Pseudouroctonus Stahnke. We tentatively place the new species in Pseudouroctonus and provide detailed descriptions and illustrations of type material. We compare the new species to 17 congeneric taxa, briefly discuss the taxonomic history of Pseudouroctonus, and provide DNA barcodes for two paratypes to assist ongoing research on the systematics of family Vaejovidae.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Study of Mite Species"]

Broadening the definition of the genus Thalassaphorura Bagnall, 1949 (Collembola, Onychiuridae) with a new aberrant species from China
A new species belonging to the tribe Thalassaphorurini, Thalassaphorura problematica sp. n., is described from Northeast China. The new species is closest to the large genus Thalassaphorura by its simple vesicles in PAO and its furcal rudiment, but it does not fit the definition of the genus by the absence of chaeta d0 on head, the number of chaetae in the distal whorl of tibiotarsi and the labium type. We discuss the relative weakness of these last characters at generic level, which lead us to assign the new species to Thalassaphorura instead of erecting a new genus. The diagnosis of Thalassaphorura is broadened accordingly.
["Thalassaphorurini"]

A revision of the shore-fly genus Hydrochasma Hendel (Diptera, Ephydridae)
A revision of the shore-fly genus Hydrochasma Hendel. The species of the genus Hydrochasma Hendel are revised, including 27 new species (type locality in parenthesis): H. andeum (Ecuador. Guayas: Boliche (02°07.7'S, 79°35.5'W)), H. annae (United States. Utah. Grand: Swasey Beach (15.3 km N Green River; 39°07'N, 110°06.6'W; Green River; 1255 m)), H. capsum (Ecuador. Orellana: RíoTiputini (0°38.2'S, 76°8.9'W)), H. castilloi (Ecuador. Loja: Catamayo (03°59'S, 79°21'W)), H. crenulum (Peru. Cuzco: Paucartambo, Atalaya (Río Alto Madre de Dios; 12°53.3'S, 71°21.6'W; 600 m)), H. denticum (Ecuador. Orellana: Río Tiputini (0°38.2'S, 76°8.9'W)), H. digitatum (Peru. Madre de Dios: Diamante (Río Alto Madre de Dios; 12°19.9'S, 70°57.5'W; 400 m)), H. distinctum (Costa Rica. Limón: Parque Nacional Barbilla, Sector Casas Negras, (10°0.8'N, 83°28.1'W; 300 m)), H. dolabrutum (Dominican Republic. Barahona: Barahona (18°12'N, 71°5.3'W)), H. edmistoni (Dominican Republic. Azua: near Pueblo Viejo (18°24.8'N, 70°44.7'W)), H. falcatum (Peru. Madre de Dios: Río Manu, Erika (near Salvación; 12°50.7'S, 71°23.3'W; 550 m)), H. glochium (Dominican Republic. Peravia: San José Ocoa (10 km NE; 18°35'N, 70°25.6'W)), H. kaieteur (Guyana. Kaieteur Falls (05°10.5'N, 59°26.9'W)), H. lineatum (Trinidad and Tobago. Trinidad. St. George: Filette (1 km SE; 10°47'N, 61°21'W)), H. miguelito (Honduras. Cortés: San Pedro Sula (8 km S; 15°25.7'N, 88°01.4'W)), H. octogonum (Ecuador. Manabí: Pichincha (01°02.7'S, 79°49.2'W)), H. parallelum (Trinidad and Tobago. Trinidad. St. Andrew: Lower Manzanilla (16 km S; 10°22'N, 61°01'W)), H. peniculum (Dominican Republic. Pedernales: Pedernales (18°01.8'N, 71°44.7'W)), H. rictum (Honduras. Cortés: San Pedro Sula (8 km S; 15°25.7'N, 88°01.4'W)), H. robustum (Brazil. São Paulo. Ubatuba, Praia Puruba (23°21'S, 44°55.6'W; beach)), H. sagittarium (Trinidad and Tobago. Tobago: St. John: Parlatuvier (creek; 11°17.9'N, 60°35'W)), H. simplicum (Costa Rica. Limón: Parque Nacional Barbilla, Sector Casas Negras, (10°01.2'N, 83°26.2'W; 300 m)), H. sinuatum (Belize. Stann Creek: Mullins Creek (17 km N Dangriga; 17°06.2'N, 88°17.8'W)), H. spinosum (Costa Rica. Limón: Westfalia (4 km S; 09°54.5'N, 82°59'W; beach)), H. urnulum (Dominican Republic. Puerto Plata: Río Camu (14 km E Puerto Plata; 19°41.9'N, 70°37.5'W)), H. viridum (Guyana. Karanambo, Rupununi River (ox bow; 03°45.1'N, 59°18.6'W)), H. williamsae (Belize. Stann Creek: Mullins River (17 km N Dangriga; 17°06.2'N, 88°17.8'W)). All known species are described with an emphasis on structures of the male terminalia, which are fully illustrated. Detailed locality data and distribution maps for all species are provided. A lectotype is designated for Discocerina incisum Coquillett and Hydrochasma zernyi Hendel. For perspective and to facilitate genus-group and species-group recognition, the tribe Discocerinini is diagnosed and a key to included genera in the New World is provided.

Revision of the Chinese Cleptes (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae) with description of new species
The genus Cleptes Latreille, 1802 from China is revised and illustrated for the first time. Seventeen species of Cleptes are recorded. Nine species are new to science, Cleptes albonotatus sp. n., Cleptes eburnecoxis sp.n., Cleptes flavolineatus sp. n., Cleptes helanshanus sp. n., Cleptes niger sp. n., Cleptes shengi sp. n., Cleptes sinensis sp. n., Cleptes tibetensis sp. n., and Cleptes villosus sp. n., and two species are reported as new to China, Cleptes metallicorpus Ha, Lee & Kim, 2011, and Cleptes seoulensis Tsuneki, 1959.
["Chrysididae"]

Beetles that live with ants (Carabidae, Pseudomorphini, Pseudomorpha Kirby, 1825): A revision of the santarita species group
The Western Hemisphere genus Pseudomorpha Kirby 1825 was last revised by Notman in 1925 based on only a few known species (22) and paltry few specimens (73); other authors have added an additional six species represented by 53 additional specimens since 1925. Baehr (1997) assigned three species from Australia to this genus, albeit in a new subgenus, Austropseudomorpha Baehr 1997. A recent study of collections from throughout the Americas (1757 specimens) has revealed numerous new species that can be arrayed across 19 species groups based on a suite of attributes, some used by Notman and others newly discovered. A taxonomic revision of the species contained in one of these species groups, santarita, is provided herein, as well as a distributional synopsis of the remaining 18 species groups. New species described herein are as follows, each with its type locality: Pseudomorpha huachinera sp. n., Arroyo El Cocono, Sierra Huachinera, Sonora, México; P. patagonia sp. n., Madera Canyon, Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona; P. penablanca sp. n., Peña Blanca Lake, Arizona; P. pima sp. n., Madera Canyon (lower), Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona; P. santacruz sp. n., Madera Canyon, Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona; and P. santarita sp. n., Santa Rita Ranch, Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona.
["False-form beetles"]

Description of the hemipenial morphology of Tupinambis quadrilineatus Manzani and Abe, 1997 (Squamata, Teiidae) and new records from Piauí, Brazil
Few data are available on the morphology of the hemipenis of teiid lizards, especially those of the recently-defined genus Tupinambis, a widely-distributed group of large-bodied lizards. This study provides an illustrated description of the hemipenis of Tupinambis quadrilineatus, which is similar to that of other representatives of the Tupinambinae subfamily. New records of the species from the state of Piauí, in northeastern Brazil, are also presented.
["Hemipenis"]

New species of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 from Southern China (Araneae, Sparassidae)
Four new species of the huntsman spider genus Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 are described from Southern China: Pseudopoda acuminata sp. n. from Suiyang County, Guizhou Province, P. emei sp. n. from Emei Mountain, Sichuan Province, P. lacrimosa sp. n. from Fugong County and Tengchong County, Yunnan Province, and P. robusta sp. n. from Jinyun Mountain, Chongqing Municipality.

New water mites of the family Hygrobatidae (Acari, Hydrachnidia) from Turkey
In this study, the findings of three water mite species of the family Hygrobatidae collected from different streams in Turkey were evaluated. Hygrobates (s. str.) anatolicus Esen & Pešić, sp. n. is described as new for science. Hygrobates (Rivobates) diversiporus Sokolow, 1927 and Atractides (s. str.) nikooae Pešić, 2004, which were illustrated and thoroughly discussed, are new records for the Turkish fauna.

Batwanema gen. n. and Chokwenema gen. n. (Oxyurida, Hystrignathidae), new nematode genera as parasites of Passalidae (Coleoptera) from the Democratic Republic of Congo
Two new genera and species parasitizing passalid beetles from the Democratic Republic of Congo are described. Batwanema congo gen. n. et sp. n. is characterized byfemales with the cervical cuticle armed with scale-like projections, arranged initially in rows of eight elements that gradually divide and form pointed spines toward the end of the spiny region, two cephalic annuli, clavate procorpus and genital tract monodelphic-prodelphic. Two Malagasian species of Artigasia Christie, 1934 were placed in this genus as B. latum (Van Waerebeke, 1973) comb. n. and B. annulatum (Van Waerebeke, 1973) comb.n. Chokwenema lepidophorum gen. n. et sp. n. is characterized byfemales with the cervical cuticle armed with scale-like projections, arranged initially in rows of eight elements (similar to Batwanema) that divide gradually, forming spines; a single cephalic annule cone-like, truncated, moderately inflated; procorpus sub-cylindrical and genital tract didelphic-amphidelphic.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control"]

Mexican species of the genus Stethantyx Townes (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Tersilochinae)
Six species of the genus Stethantyx Townes are found to occur in Mexico. One species, S. mexicana sp. n., is described as new, and four recently described Neotropical species, S. alajuela Khalaim & Broad, S. heredia Khalaim & Broad, S. osa Khalaim & Broad and S. sanjosea Khalaim & Broad, are new records from Mexico. A key to species of Stethantyx occurring in Mexico is provided.

A taxonomic revision of the silphaeformis species-group of the genus Tachinus Gravenhorst (Staphylinidae, Tachyporinae) from China
The Chinese species of the silphaeformis group of the genus Tachinus Gravenhorst are revised with fifteen species being treated. Thirteen of them are described as new: T. armatus Feng & Li, sp. n. (Sichuan), T. cavazzutii Feng, Li & Schülke, sp. n. (Sichuan), T. coronatus Feng, Li & Schülke, sp. n. (Ningxia, Qinghai), T. hercules Feng, Li & Schülke, sp. n. (Sichuan), T. hujiayaoi Feng, Li & Schülke, sp. n. (Shaanxi), T. jiuzhaigouensis Feng, Li & Schülke, sp. n. (Sichuan), T. linzhiensis Feng & Li, sp. n. (Tibet), T. maderianus Feng & Li, sp. n. (Sichuan), T. mengdaensis Feng, Li & Schülke, sp. n. (Qinghai), T. oblongoelytratus Feng & Li, sp. n. (Sichuan), T. parahercules Feng, Li & Schülke, sp. n. (Sichuan), T. paralinzhiensis Feng & Li, sp. n. (Tibet), and T. yini Feng, Li & Schülke, sp. n. (Sichuan). The two known species are redescribed based on the holotypes and additional material. Illustrations of the habitus and major diagnostic characters, distributional maps, and identification keys of all species are included.
["Tachinus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Mitochondrial DNA and karyotypic data confirm the presence of Mus indutus and Mus minutoides (Mammalia, Rodentia, Muridae, Nannomys) in Botswana
We use a combination of cytochrome b sequence data and karyological evidence to confirm the presence of Mus indutus and Mus minutoides in Botswana. Our data include sampling from five localities from across the country, including one site in northwestern Botswana where both species were captured in syntopy. Additionally, we find evidence for two mitochondrial lineages of M. minutoides in northwestern Botswana that differ by 5% in sequence variation. Also, we report that M. minutoides in Botswana have the 2n=34 karyotype with the presence of a (X.1) sex-autosome translocation.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

The genus Microserangium Miyatake (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from China
The genus Microserangium Chapin from China is reviewed. Nine species are recognized, including seven new species: M. erythrinum Wang & Ren, sp. n., M. fuscum Wang & Ren, sp. n., M. glossoides Wang & Ren, sp. n., M. shennongensis Wang & Ren, sp. n., M. semilunatum Wang & Ren, sp. n., M. deltoides Wang & Ren, sp. n., M. dactylicum Wang & Ren, sp. n. Male genitalia of M. hainanensis Miyatake, 1961 are described for the first time. All species are described and illustrated. A key and distribution map to the known species from China are given.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new genus and species of Macrosiphini (Hemiptera, Aphididae) from China, living on Isodon eriocalyx
The aphid genus Nigritergaphis gen. n. is described, and N. crassisetosa sp.n. on Isodon eriocalyx (Dunn) Kudô (Lamiaceae) from Yunnan, China is described and illustrated. The new species curls and distorts the leaves of this important traditional Chinese medicinal plant, and is evidently specific to this host. Holotype and paratypes are deposited in the National Zoological Museum of China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
["Nigritergaphis"]
["Bioactive Natural Diterpenoids Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant-derived Lignans Synthesis and Bioactivity"]

A new species of Neocarus Chamberlin & Mulaik, 1942 (Opilioacarida, Opilioacaridae) from Brazil, with remarks on its postlarval development
Neocarus proteus sp. n., is described from caves and the surrounding epigean environment of ferruginous outcrops (Cangas) in Minas Gerais, Brazil. In addition, some notes about development in this species are presented. Neocarus proteus is the only species in the genus that has smooth or barbed genital setae and that carries coronidia on the basitarsi, tibiae and genua of legs II–III. Females carry additional setae with rounded tips on the subcapitulum, and are, on average, larger than males. This distinct sexual dimorphism appears in the tritonymphal instar and is maintained in the adults.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Study of Mite Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A taxonomic study on the genus Harpapion Voss, 1966 from China (Coleoptera, Apionidae)
Harpapion safranum sp. n. and Harpapion borisi sp. n. are described and figured. Harpapion vietnamense (Korotyaev, 1987) is recorded as new for China. The genitalia and terminalia of H. considerandum, H. coelebs and H. vietnamense are redescribed and redrawn. The diagnostic characters of Harpapion are defined. A key to the known species of the genus Harpapion from China is provided. Affinities with the genus Flavopodapion Korotyaev, 1987 are discussed.

Beetles that live with ants (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Pseudomorphini): A remarkable new genus and species from Guyane (French Guiana), Guyanemorpha spectabilis gen. n., sp. n.
Among the extensive collections currently being made in Guyane (French Guiana), adults of a large and colorful species of pseudomorphine were encountered. The adults present, for the first time in the Western Hemisphere, elytra with a marked color pattern, and in addition a size considerably beyond that of the rest of the members of all other known genera in the Western Hemisphere. Both of these attributes, however, are well known in the Australian pseudomorphine fauna. This new species is described and illustrated and a revised key to the Western Hemisphere genera is included. The type locality of Guyanemorpha spectabilis gen. n., sp. n. is Guyane, Risquetout, PK20, 4.916°N, 52.516°W, 12m altitude.
["False-form beetles"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

The millipede genus Tetracentrosternus Pocock, 1895 (Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae, Alogolykinae, Alogolykini), with a description of the first, new species from Thailand
The millipede subfamily Alogolykinae and the tribe Alogolykini are recorded in Thailand for the first time, being represented there by Tetracentrosternus theelorsuensis sp. n. While the new species has characteristics that place it in the genus Tetracentrosternus, it also shows a number of unique features that make it necessary to rediagnose this Oriental genus, as well as to key its three currently known species and map their distributions. The tribes Alogolykini and Polydrepanini, as well as the subfamily Alogolykinae are also briefly redefined.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

The ant genus Carebara Westwood in the Arabian Peninsula (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The ant genus Carebara of the Arabian Peninsula is revised. Carebara abuhurayri Sharaf & Aldawood, 2011 is synonymized under Carebara arabica Collingwood & van Harten, 2001. Carebara arabica is redescribed and a Neotype is fixed based on a specimen collected from southwestern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A new species, C. fayrouzae sp. n. is described from Saudi Arabia based on queens, major and minor workers. Keys to major and minor workers of the two Arabian Carebara species are given.
["Saudi Arabia"]

Ophioderma peruana, a new species of brittlestar (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea, Ophiodermatidae) from the Peruvian coast
Ophioderma peruana sp. n. is a new species of Ophiodermatidae, extending the distribution of the genus Ophioderma to Lobos de Afuera Island, Peru, easily distinguishable from its congeners by its peculiarly fragmented dorsal arm plates. Dense granules, rounded or polygonal cover the disc, the radial shields may be naked or completely covered by granules. A good character for recognizing this species in the field is the dorsal side of the disc which is brown with disc granules lighter cream and brown, the arms are mottled with whitish spots and the ventral part of the disc on the interradial part is brown and the radial part bright yellow.

Morphology of adult and juvenile instars of Galumna obvia (Acari, Oribatida, Galumnidae), with discussion of its taxonomic status
The adult instar of the oribatid mite, Galumna obvia (Berlese, 1914), is redescribed in detail, on the basis of specimens from Finland. The morphology of juvenile instars of G. obvia is described and illustrated for the first time, and compared to that of other species of the family Galumnidae. The position of the insertion of the lamellar seta in adults proved variable in studied European populations, being either on or medial to the lamellar line. Since the genera Galumna and Pergalumna are currently distinguished only by the relative positions of the seta and line, specimens of G. obvia in some populations show an intermediate situation between other studied Galumna species – with lamellar seta on or lateral of lamellar line – and Pergalumna with lamellar seta at a distinct distance medially of lamellar line. A detailed reevaluation of the two genera is needed.
["Oribatida"]

A new species of Socarnes Boeck, 1871 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Lysianassidae) from Korean waters
A new species of lysianassid amphipod belonging to the genus Socarnes Boeck was collected from Korean coastal waters. This is the first record of the genus Socarnes from Korea. The new species is fully illustrated and extensively compared with related species. A key to Socarnes species is provided.
["Marine and Coastal Research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Diversity of Ptychadena in Rwanda and taxonomic status of P. chrysogaster Laurent, 1954 (Amphibia, Anura, Ptychadenidae)
We assess the diversity of Ptychadena species in Rwanda based on re-examination of voucher specimens in museum collections and our own data from recent assessment of the species composition of amphibian communities in Rwanda. We recognize five species which we allocate to the following available names: P. anchietae, P. chrysogaster, P. nilotica, P. porosissima, and P. uzungwensis. We did not find evidence for the presence of P. grandisonae and P. oxyrhynchus which have been listed for the country. The five species can be distinguished by quantitative morphometrics (discriminant analysis, success rate: 100 %) and a number of qualitative characters of external morphology. We provide an identification key to the Rwandan species and describe the morphology of each species in detail. The taxonomic status and the phylogenetic position of Ptychadena chrysogaster are further assessed based on the partial sequence of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA. The species differs genetically from available homologous sequences from congeners by an uncorrected p distance of at least 4.2 % and appears to be most closely related to specimens assigned to P. porosissima, P. mahnerti, “P. aff. uzungwensis” and “P. aff. bibroni”.
["P. anchietae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Taxonomic revision of the Trapdoor spider genus Eucteniza Ausserer (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Euctenizidae)
The mygalomorph spider genus Eucteniza Ausserer, 1875 comprises 15 nominal species known only from the southwestern United States (Texas) and Mexico (Northern, Central, and the Baja Peninsula). Eucteniza atoyacensis Bond & Opell, 2002 is considered a nomen dubium; E. rex (Chamberlin, 1940) and E. stolida (Gertsch & Mulaik, 1940) are both considered junior synonyms of E. relata (O.P.-Cambridge, 1895). Twelve new species are described: E. caprica, E. coylei, E. diablo, E. cabowabo, E. huasteca, E. zapatista, E. chichimeca, E. ronnewtoni, E. hidalgo, E. golondrina, E. panchovillai and E. rosalia.

The “Taygetis ypthima species group” (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae): taxonomy, variation and description of a new species
A new species of Taygetis Hübner, [1819] (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae) from southeastern Brazil is described: Taygetis drogoni sp. n. In addition, T. servius Weymer, 1910 and T. fulginia d’Almeida, 1922 are resurrected from synonymy and a taxonomic discussion on the species T. ypthima Hübner, [1821] and T. rectifascia Weymer, 1907 is provided. A dichotomous key for the species is also provided.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

The genus Pseudolathra Casey in China: new species and new records (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Two new species of the genus Pseudolathra Casey from mainland China are described and attributed to their respective species groups, P. cylindrata sp. n. from Hubei and Sichuan, and P. superficiaria sp. n. from Yunnan. Pseudolathra pulchella (Kraatz, 1859), P. transversiceps Assing, 2013 and P. bipectinata Assing, 2013 from Yunnan are reported from China for the first time. The history of the exploration of the Chinese fauna of Pseudolathra is summarized.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Two newly recognized species of Hemidactylus (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from the Arabian Peninsula and Sinai, Egypt
A recent molecular phylogeny of the Arid clade of the genus Hemidactylus revealed that the recently described H. saba and two unnamed Hemidactylus species from Sinai, Saudi Arabia and Yemen form a well-supported monophyletic group within the Arabian radiation of the genus. The name ‘Hemidactylus saba species group’ is suggested for this clade. According to the results of morphological comparisons and the molecular analyses using two mitochondrial (12S and cytb) and four nuclear (cmos, mc1r, rag1, rag2) genes, the name Hemidactylus granosus Heyden, 1827 is resurrected from the synonymy of H. turcicus for the Sinai and Saudi Arabian species. The third species of this group from Yemen is described formally as a new species H. ulii sp. n. The phylogenetic relationships of the members of ‘Hemidactylus saba species group’ are evaluated and the distribution and ecology of individual species are discussed.
["Reptilia"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Treerunners, cryptic lizards of the Plica plica group (Squamata, Sauria, Tropiduridae) of northern South America
The arboreal, Neotropical lizard Plica plica (Linnaeus, 1758) has been long considered a widespread species with a distribution east of the Andes. A preliminary examination of 101specimens from about 28 locations mostly north of the Amazon suggests Plica plica is a cryptic species complex with taxa that can be distinguished on the basis of the number of scale rows at mid-body; the arrangement, shape and ornamentation of scales on the snout; the number of lamellae on the fourth toe; the number of subocular plates; as well as other commonly used external morphological traits. The allopatric species discussed here are concordant with northern South American geography. Plica plica (Linnaeus,1758) is associated with the Guiana Shield (Suriname, Guyana and Venezuela). A second species, P. caribeana sp. n. is associated with the Caribbean Coastal Range of Venezuela including Trinidad and Tobago. A third, distinctive species, P. rayi sp. n. is associated with the Middle Orinoco at the eastern edge of the Guiana Shield. Two other species, P. kathleenae sp. n. and P. medemi sp. n., each based upon a single specimen, one from the Sierra Acarai Mountains of Guyana, and the other from southern Meta, Colombia are described. In addition to morphological analyses, we sequenced 12S and 16S rDNA gene fragments from one Plica plica from Trinidad to assess its relationship and taxonomy to other mainland Plica cf plica. The results suggest Plica caribeana sp. n. likely diverged prior to the separation of Trinidad from Northern Venezuela. Isolation in the Caribbean Coastal Range during its rapid uplift in the late Miocene, combined with a marine incursion into northern Venezuela may have contributed to their genetic divergence from other populations.
["Arboreal lizards"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new genus of metalmark moths (Lepidoptera, Choreutidae) with Afrotropical and Australasian distribution
Niveas Rota, new genus, and its two new species, N. agassizi Rota, new species, and N. kone Rota, new species, are described and illustrated. Niveas is assigned to the subfamily Choreutinae based on morphological and molecular data. Niveas agassizi is currently known only from Kenya and only from female specimens. Niveas kone has been found on the Solomon Islands and in Papua New Guinea (PNG). In PNG, larvae of this species have been reared from several species of Ficus (Moraceae). The two species are superficially quite dissimilar from each other. However, they share features in wing pattern and venation, as well as female genitalia, and the molecular data strongly support the monophyly of Niveas.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Using seemingly unnecessary illustrations to improve the diagnostic usefulness of descriptions in taxonomy–a case study on Perochaeta orientalis (Diptera, Sepsidae)
Many species descriptions, especially older ones, consist mostly of text and have few illustrations. Only the most conspicuous morphological features needed for species diagnosis and delimitation at the time of description are illustrated. Such descriptions can quickly become inadequate when new species or characters are discovered. We propose that descriptions should become more data-rich by presenting a large amount of images and illustrations to cover as much morphology as possible; these descriptions are more likely to remain adequate over time because their large amounts of visual data could capture character systems that may become important in the future. Such an approach can now be quickly and easily achieved given that high-quality digital photography is readily available. Here, we re-describe the sepsid fly Perochaeta orientalis (de Meijere 1913) (Diptera, Sepsidae) which has suffered from inadequate descriptions in the past, and use photomicrography, scanning electron microscopy and videography to document its external morphology and mating behaviour. All images and videos are embedded within the electronic publication. We discuss briefly benefits and problems with our approach.

Revision of the Afrotropical Phaeogenini (Ichneumonidae, Ichneumoninae), with description of a new genus and twelve new species
We revise the 10 genera and 23 species of the tribe Phaeogenini (Ichneumonidae: Ichneumoninae) known to occur in the Afrotropical region. We describe the following 13 new taxa: Kibalus Rousse, van Noort & Diller, gen. n.; K. toro Rousse, van Noort & Diller, sp. n.; K. mubfs Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; Arearia oxymoron Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; Chauvinia nyanga Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; Dicaelotus asantesana Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; D. hoerikwaggoensis Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; D. tablemountainensis Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; Heterischnus mfongosi Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; H. mkomazi Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; Lusius flummox Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; Tycherus amatola Rousse & van Noort, sp. n.; and T. nardousberg Rousse & van Noort, sp. n. New distribution records: Heterischnus africanus (Heinrich, 1936) from South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda; H. krausi Schönitzer, 1999 from Rwanda; Lusius tenuissimus (Heinrich, 1938) from Democratic Republic of Congo,Malawi, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. A doubtful record of Aethecerus foveolatus Gregor, 1940 from Sao Tome is additionaly reported in the appendix. We provide illustrated diagnoses and identification notes. Online interactive dichotomous and matrix Lucid keys to genera and species are available at http://www.waspweb.org.

Two new species of Abernessia Arlé (Pompilidae, Ctenocerinae)
Two new species are added to the rare pompilid genus Abernessia Arlé. Abernessia capixaba sp. n. and A.giga sp. n. are described and illustrated. This is the first record of the genus from the states of Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais, Brazil. The genus now contains four species. A brief discussion of generic characters, illustrations, and a key to the known species of Abernessia are provided.
["Ctenocerinae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Two new species and one subspecies of Craniophora Snellen, 1867 (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Acronictinae) from China
Three Craniophora taxa from China, C. fujianensis Kiss and Gyulai, sp. n., C. fujianensis hainanensis Kiss and Gyulai, ssp. n. and C. sichuanensis Kiss, Gyulai and Saldaitis, sp. n., are newly described. Adult habitus and male genitalia are illustrated and compared with those of C. harmandi (Poujade) and C. praeclara (Graeser). Females of the new taxa are unknown.

Genetic variation corroborates subspecific delimitation in the Namib fog-basking beetle, Onymacris unguicularis (Haag) (Tenebrionidae, Coleoptera)
The fog-basking beetle, Onymacris unguicularis (Haag, 1875), is currently listed as a polytypic form comprising two subspecies. A flightless substrate specialist, the beetle is endemic to vegetationless dunes in the Namib, where southern populations constitute the nominate subspecies, O. u. unguicularis, and populations some 300 km to the north compose O. u. schulzeae Penrith, 1984. Their taxonomic descriptions are based on minor differences in pronotal and prosternal shape, and the phylogenetic validity of these subspecies has yet to be ascertained. Here we reassess the polytypic status of O. unguicularis by (1) examining diagnostic phenotypic characters in conjunction with a geometric morphometric analysis, and (2) conducting phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences. Our results confirm pronotal and prosternal differences, which are complemented by geometric morphometric resolution of the subspecies. Phylogenetic analysis recovered two reciprocally monophyletic lineages that exhibit perfect phylogeographic congruence with phenotypic variation. Our genetic data identify southern and northern populations as distinct lineages, corroborate morphometric data regarding subspecific delimitation, and therefore support the recognition of O. u. unguicularis and O. u. schulzeae as valid taxa under the general lineage concept.
["Subspecies"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

A revision of the Neotropical genus Paraberismyia Woodley (Diptera, Stratiomyidae, Beridinae) with three new species
The Neotropical genus Paraberismyia Woodley, 1995, is revised. Three new species, P. chiapas sp. n., P.mathisi sp. n., and P. triunfo sp. n. are described, alltype localities in Chiapas, Mexico. A key to the four known species is provided.
["Beridinae"]

First description of the male of Thaida chepu Platnick, 1987 (Araneae, Austrochilidae) with micro-computed tomography of the palpal organ
The male of the austrochilid spider Thaida chepu Platnick, 1987 is described for the first time. We analyzed the internal anatomy of the palpal organ by using micro-computed tomography to investigate the spermophor as well as the muscles and tendons in the cymbium and tibia in detail. As shown by our data, muscles 29 and 30 originate in the tibia and continue with tendons to the base of the bulb, which resembles the ancestral organization for the male palp of spiders; this condition has not been described for Araneomorphae until now. The 3D reconstruction of the spermophor confirms recent interpretations of the male palp sclerites within Austrochilidae.

Three new species of Fufius Simon, 1888 (Araneae, Cyrtaucheniidae) from Brazil with the redescription of Fufius funebris Vellard, 1924 and description of the female of Fufius lucasae Guadanucci & Indicatti, 2004
The mygalomorph neotropical genus Fufius Simon, 1888 comprises ten species, distributed from Guatemala in Central America to southeastern Brazil, in South America. Most of the species were described from northern South America, in the Amazonian region. Only F. funebris Vellard, 1924 and F. lucasae Guadanucci & Indicatti, 2004 are known from regions more to the south of the continent. Herein we describe three new Brazilian species, Fufius minusculus sp. n. and F. jalapensis sp. n. from the state of Tocantins, and F. candango sp. n. from Distrito Federal. The female of F. lucasae is described for first time and the male and female of F. funebris are redescribed based on specimens collected at the type locality.
["Brazilian Atlantic rainforest"]

A new genus and eight new species of the subtribe Anillina (Carabidae, Trechinae, Bembidiini) from Mexico, with a cladistic analysis and some notes on the evolution of the genus
One new genus and eight new species of anilline carabids are described from southern Mexico. The new genus, Zapotecanillus gen. n., is established for Z. oaxacanus (type species) sp. n., Z. nanus sp. n., Z. iviei sp. n., Z. ixtlanus sp. n., Z. montanus sp. n., and Z. kavanaughi sp. n. from the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca, Z. pecki sp. n. from the Sierra Madre del Sur, and Z. longinoi sp. n. from the Sierra Madre de Chiapas. A taxonomic key for all described species of Zapotecanillus and a cladistic analysis, based on morphological data, are provided. Morphological, behavioral and biogeographical aspects of the speciation in the genus obtained from the resulting cladogram are discussed.

On five species of the tribes Abacetini and Pterostichini (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Metabacetus willi sp. n. (type locality: Indonesia, Central Java Province, Purworejo Regency, Kaligesing District, cave Seplawan near Donorejo) and Rhytiferonia beroni sp. n. (type locality: Papua New Guinea, West Sepik Province, Bonforok bil, Tifalmin, 1600 m) are described. Two new combinations: Poecilus (Ancholeus) campania (Andrewes, 1937), comb. n. of Feronia campania Andrewes, 1937, Aristochroa poecilma (Andrewes, 1937), comb. n. of Feronia poecilma Andrewes, 1937, and a new synonymy: Pterostichus (Oreophilus) podgoricensis B. Guéorguiev, 2013, syn. n. of Pterostichus (Oreophilus) flavofemoratus pinguis (Dejean, 1828), are proposed, too.

Deep phylogenetic divergence between Scolytoplatypus and Remansus, a new genus of Scolytoplatypodini from Madagascar (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae)
Scolytoplatypodini Blandford is a monotypic tribe of ambrosia beetles found in Asia, Madagascar and Africa. Only three species are currently known from Madagascar and four additional species are here described as new to science. Phylogenetic analyses of morphological and molecular data revealed that four of the seven endemic species are deeply separated from all other species by genetic and distinct morphological characters and therefore placed in a new genus Remansus Jordal. The split between this ancient lineage and Scolytoplatypus Schaufuss was estimated to approximate Palaeocene age (63 Ma), extending the minimum age of ambrosia feeding for this tribe to the beginning of the Palaeocene‒Eocene thermal maximum (PETM). In addition to the ancient origin of Remansus in Madagascar during the Palaeocene, a second origin occurred in Scolytoplatypus no more than 13 Ma. A geographical origin of the latter in South-Eastern Africa was unequivocally inferred from the phylogenies.
["Curculionidae"]

First report on the leafhopper genus Balera Young (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Typhlocybinae, Alebrini) from Argentina, and description of a new species
The genus Balera Young is reported for first time to Argentina and a new species is described, Balera floripara sp. n. Detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations of the new species and a key to males of known species are provided. Habralebra amoena is also recorded for the first time from Argentina.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Taxonomic and morphological survey of the Lygephila lusoria (Linnaeus, 1758) species-group with description of a new species (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Toxocampinae)
The taxa of the Lygephila lusoria (Linnaeus, 1758) species-group are revised. The genital features of all known taxa are described and illustrated with special reference to the structure of vesica. The male genitalia of L. pallida pallida (Bang-Haas, 1907) are described and illustrated for the first time. L. pallida subpicata (Wiltshire, 1971) is treated here as a species, L. pallida subpicata (Wiltshire, 1971), stat. n., distinct from L. pallida. A new species, L. minima, sp. n., from South Russia is described. Illustrations of the holotype and its genitalia are provided; a diagnostic comparison with L. pallida is given. L. alaica Remm, 1983 is included in the L. lusoria species-group for the first time.

New species and records of the stonefly genus Neoperla (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from Jinhuacha Nature Reserve, Guangxi of China
Two new Neoperla species (Neoperla mesospina, Neoperla latispina) are described from the adult male stage from the Jinhuacha Nature Reserve, Guangxi of China. The new species are compared with similar taxa. Taxonomic remarks are also provided for N. transversprojecta Du & Sivec and N. yao Stark. The latter species is newly recorded for Guangxi.
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Scientific Research Methodologies and Applications"]

Description of Eucyclops tziscao sp. n., E. angeli sp. n., and a new record of E. festivus Lindberg, 1955 (Cyclopoida, Cyclopidae, Eucyclopinae) in Chiapas, Mexico
Two new species of the freshwater cyclopoid genera Eucyclops are described, Eucyclops tziscao sp. n. and E. angeli sp. n. Both species belong to the serrulatus-group defined by morphological features such as: the presence of distal spinules or hair-like setae (groups N1 and N2) on frontal surface of antennal basis; the fourth leg coxa with a strong inner spine that bears dense setules on inner side, yet proximally naked (large gap) on outer side; and a 12-segmented antennule with smooth hyaline membrane on the three distalmost segments. Eucyclops tziscao sp. n. is morphologically similar to E. bondi and E. conrowae but differs from these species ina unique combination of characters, including a caudal ramus 4.05±0.25 times as long as wide, lateral seta of Enp3P4 modified as a strong, sclerotized blunt seta, coxal spine of fourth leg with inner spinule-like setules distally, and sixth leg of males bearing a strong and long inner spine 2.3 times longer than median seta. Eucyclops angeli sp. n. can be distinguished by an unique combination of morphological features: the short caudal ramus; the long spine on the sixth antennular segment of A1; the presence of one additional group of spinules (N12’) on the caudal surface of A2; the presence of long setae in females, or short spinules in males on the lateral margin of fourth prosomite; the strong ornamentation of the intercoxal sclerite of P4, specially group I modified as long denticles; the distal modified setae of Exp3P3 and Exp3P4 in females and males; and the short lateral seta of P5. Finally, we report on a new record of E. festivus in México, and add data on morphology of the species.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Two new species of gorgonian octocorals from the Tropical Eastern Pacific Biogeographic Region (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Gorgoniidae)
The gorgoniid Eugorgia is exclusively an eastern Pacific genus. It has a wide geographic and bathymetric range of distribution, found from California to Perú and extends down to 65 m deep. Two new species are herein described. The morphological characters were analyzed and illustrated by light and scanning electron microscopy. Eugorgia beebei sp. n. can be distinguished by its white, ascending, sparse colony growth. Eugorgia mutabilis sp. n. can be distinguished by its white colony that changes color after collection, and the conspicuous sharp-crested disc sclerites. From a morphological point of view the new species are related to the daniana-group, the rubens-group and the siedenburgae-group of Eugorgia; their affiliations, and the proposal of a new group are discussed. These new species increases the number of species in the genus to 15, and contribute to the knowledge of the eastern Pacific octocoral biodiversity.
["Eugorgia"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Four new species of Oidardis Hermann, 1912 (Diptera, Asilidae, Laphriinae, Atomosiini) from two major faunistic surveys in the Atlantic Rainforest
Two recent faunistic surveys in the Brazilian Atlantic Forests region, the PROFAUPAR and the Biota/FAPESP Program, have provided important material for the discovery of new taxa from Brazil. We describe herein four new species of robber-flies of the genus Oidardis (O. falcimystax sp. n., O. fontenellei sp.n., O. maculiseta sp. n. and O. marinonii sp. n.), including illustrations and details on male hypopygia and female genitalia. A distribution map and a key to the species of Oidardis from the Brazilian Atlantic Forests region, including O. triangularis (Hermann), 1912, are also provided.
["Robber-flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Taxonomic revision of Madagascan Rhantus (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Colymbetinae) with an emphasis on Manjakatompo as a conservation priority
We review the diving-beetle genus Rhantus Dejean of Madagascar (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Colymbetinae) based on museum collection holdings and recently collected expedition material. Both morphology and DNA is used to test species boundaries, in particular whether newly collected material from the Tsaratanana mountains in the north represent a new species or are conspecific with Rhantus manjakatompo Pederzani and Rocchi 2009, described based on a single male specimen from the central Ankaratra mountains. DNA of the holotype of R. manjakatompo was successfully extracted in a non-destructive way and sequenced. The general mixed Yule coalescent model applied to an ultrametric tree constructed from mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequence data delimited three species. Morphological characters supported the same species unambiguously. We therefore recognise three species of Rhantus to occur in Madagascar: R. latus (Fairmaire, 1869), R. bouvieri Régimbart, 1900 and R. manjakatompo Pederzani and Rocchi, 2009. All three species are endemic to Madagascar and restricted to the highlands of the island. Rhantus stenonychus Régimbart, 1895, syn. n., is considered a junior synonym of R. latus. We designate lectotypes for R. bouvieri and R. goudoti Sharp, 1882, the latter a junior synonym of R. latus. We provide descriptions, a determination key, SEM-images of fine pronotal and elytral structures, distribution maps, habitus photos, and illustrations of male genitalia and pro- and mesotarsal claws. We discuss the role of the Manjakatompo forest as a refugium for Madagascan Rhantus diversity and other endemics of the montane central high plateau.
["Diving beetles"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

The hydrobioid freshwater gastropods (Caenogastropoda, Truncatelloidea) of Greece: new records, taxonomic re-assessments using DNA sequence data and an update of the IUCN Red List Categories
Hydrobioid freshwater gastropods were collected from mainland and insular Greece. Several threatened taxa, such as Graecoanatolica vegorriticola, Pseudamnicola negropontina, Pseudamnicola pieperi, Pseudobithynia eubooensis and Pseudoislamia balcanica, were recorded from new localities. Trichonia trichonica, which has been considered extinct from its type locality for the last twenty eight years, was re-discovered, whereas the presence of Daphniola exigua, G. vegorriticola, Marstoniopsis graeca, P. pieperi and Pseudobithynia trichonis in their type localities was verified. The taxonomic status of P. negropontina and the newly discovered populations of G. vegorriticola was elucidated using COI sequence data. The new data recorded during this survey indicate that the IUCN status of some Greek endemic hydrobioids needs to be updated.
["Hydrobioids"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Myxozoan Parasites in Aquatic Species"]

A new species of Austrodecus Hodgson, 1907 (Arthropoda, Pycnogonida, Austrodecidae) from the Southwest Indian Ridge
A new species of pycnogonid collected by the Chinese research vessel R/V Dayangyihao during cruises to the Southwest Indian Ridge in 2008 and 2009 is recorded. The new species, Austrodecus bamberi, is placed into the tristanense-section by the characters of 4-articled ovigers and present auxiliary claws and is distinguished from other species in this section by the number and length of tubercles on the first coxae.
["Southwest Indian Ridge"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

New species and host records of New World, mostly Neotropical, opiine Braconidae (Hymenoptera) reared from flower-infesting, stem-galling, and stem-mining Tephritidae (Diptera)
New host records (all members of the family Tephritidae) are presented for 14 newly described species of opiine Braconidae from the neotropics and two previously described species, one from the neotropics and one from the Nearctic Region. Doryctobracon anneae Wharton, Opius baderae Wharton, O. baeblus Wharton, O.cablus Wharton, O. dablus Wharton, O. danielsae Wharton, O. gabriellae Wharton, O. godfrayi Wharton, O. marshi Wharton, O. nablus Wharton, O. pipitae Wharton, O. stecki Wharton, O. taramegillae Wharton, and O. yoderi Wharton are newly described. Hosts are newly recorded for the previously described species Opius nympha Fischer and O. peleus Fischer. A key is presented to Opiinae that have been reared from flower, stem, and leaf feeding tephritids in the New World. Host and host plant associations are discussed; a few of the tephritid host plant records are also new. Opius cosa (Fischer), is a comb. n.
["Parasitoid"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies"]

Occurrence of species of the genus Pityophthorus Eichhoff (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in the province of Quebec, Canada
Twig beetles in the genus Pityophthorus Eichhoff, 1864 include more than 300 species worldwide, with maximum diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. To date, approximately 50 species of Pityophthorus have been recorded in Canada, and these species are associated mainly with coniferous trees. Since 1981, no comprehensive study on this difficult taxonomic group has been conducted in Quebec, Canada, most likely due to their limited significance as forest pests. Based on data gathered from five years of field sampling in conifer seed orchards and compiled from various entomological collections, the distribution of Pityophthorus species in Quebec is presented. Approximately 291 new localities were recorded for the Pityophthorus species. Five species-group taxa, namely P. puberulus (LeConte, 1868), P. pulchellus pulchellus Eichhoff, 1869, P. pulicarius (Zimmermann, 1868), P. nitidus Swaine, 1917, and P. cariniceps LeConte&Horn, 1876 were the most widespread. In contrast, P. consimilis LeConte, 1878, P. intextus Swaine, 1917, P. dentifrons Blackman, 1922, P. ramiperda Swaine, 1917, and P. concavus Blackman, 1928 display a notably limited distribution. In addition, the first distribution records of P. intextus and P. biovalis Blackman, 1922 are furnished, and the subspecies P. murrayanae murrayanae Blackman, 1922 is reported from Quebec for the second time. Moreover, distribution maps are provided for all Pityophthorus species recorded in the province of Quebec.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Discovery of the male of Lobrathium rotundiceps (Koch), and a new species of Lobrathium from Jiangxi, East China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
The male of Lobrathium rotundiceps (Koch, 1939) from Zhejiang and L. luoxiaoense sp. n. from Jiangxi are described and illustrated.
["Lobrathium rotundiceps"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Three new species of the genus Probles Förster (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Tersilochinae) from South Korea
Three closely related species of the genus Probles Förster, P. fulgida sp. n., P. korusa sp. n. and P. rukora sp.n., belong to the subgenus Euporizon Horstmann and differ from other Palearctic species of the genus by a combination of long and apically weakly sinuate ovipositor and short temple. These three species are assigned to a newly designated fulgida species-group, and a portion of the key for identification of this species-group is provided. Based on the shape of the ovipositor apex, the fulgida species-group resemble members of the subgenus Microdiaparsis Horstmann but are distinct ina much shorter temple.
["Euporizon"]

The genus Aspidimerus Mulsant, 1850 (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from China, with descriptions of two new species
Chinese members of the genus Aspidimerus Mulsant, 1850 are reviewed. Ten species are recognized, including two new species: A. zhenkangicus Huo & Ren, sp. n. and A. menglensis Huo & Ren, sp. n. A. kabakovi Hoàng is recorded from China for the first time. A. blandus (Mader, 1954) is recognized as synonymous with A. ruficrus Gorham, 1895 (syn. n.). Aspidimerus rectangulatus Kuznetsov & Pang, 1991 and A. serratus Kuznetsov & Pang, 1991 are transferred to the genus Pseudaspidimerus Kapur, 1948 (comb. n.). All species from China are described and illustrated. Distribution maps of the Chinese species, a key and a catalogue of all known Aspidimerus are provided.

A new species of Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 (Scorpiones, Euscorpiidae) from south western Turkey.
A new scorpion species, Euscorpius lycius sp. n., is described based on specimens collected from Muğla and Antalya Provinces, in southwestern Turkey. It is characterized by a standard trichobothrial pattern (Pv= 8/9, et= 6, em=4, eb= 4), small size and light brown/reddish coloration. With the description of Euscorpius lycius sp. n., the number of valid species of the genus Euscorpius in Turkey increases to 5.
["Scorpion"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies"]

Six new deep-water sternaspid species (Annelida, Sternaspidae) from the Pacific Ocean
Most sternaspid species have been described from shallow water, and Caulleryaspis Sendall & Salazar-Vallejo, 2013 includes one deep water species: C. gudmundssoni Sendall & Salazar-Vallejo, 2013 from Iceland. In Sternaspis Otto, 1821, the most speciose genus, most species were described from shallow water and only three thrive in deep water: S. maior Chamberlin, 1919 from the Gulf of California, S. princeps Selenka, 1885 from New Zealand, and S. riestchi Caullery, 1944 from Indonesia. The study of some deep sea sternaspids from the Pacific Ocean in the collections of six research institutions resulted in the discovery of six undescribed species, and for three of them there were abundant materials showing ventro-caudal shield development. Caulleryaspis fauchaldi sp. n. is described based on specimens from Oregon and California; it differs from the known species because it has a shield with rounded anterior margins and its peg chaetae form thin, small spines. Caulleryaspis nuda sp. n. was collected off Oregon; it is unique because its shield lacks a layer of sediment particles firmly attached, but has instead a thin layer of small particles loosely attached. Four other species are newly described in Sternaspis: S. annenkovae sp. n. was collected east off the northern Kurile Islands in about 4,000 m depth; it differs from other species bya bicolored body, with the introvert darker than the abdomen, and its ventro-caudal shield plates are divergent resulting in a divided fan. The second species, S. maureri sp.n. was found off Peru in 1296–6489 m water depths and in the Southwestern Pacific in 795–3830 m; it resembles S. williamsae sp. n. but differs because its shield has better-developed ribs, the fan has a shallow or indistinct median notch and has lateral notches well-developed. The third species, S. uschakovi sp. n., was found in the Okhotsk Sea in 592–1366 m, off California in 1585 m, Gulf of California in 1200–1274 m, and Western Mexico in 2548 m; it resembles S. africana Augener, 1918 and S. andamanensis Sendall & Salazar-Vallejo, 2013 inshields with a denticulate posterior margin; the latter two species live in shallow water and they differ from each other and from the new species by a combination of shield and papillae features. The fourth species, S. williamsae sp. n., was found off Oregon in 1000–2400 m, and off California in 878–1246 m; it resembles S. annenkovae because both species have shields with fans narrower than the anterior margin width, but differ in the relative development of shield features and in the relative size of prostomium and mouth; as stated above it also resembles S. maureri sp. n. but its shield has poorly-developed ribs, its median notch is distinct, and the lateral notches are poorly developed or indistinct. Keys to identify all species of Caulleryaspis and Sternaspis are also included.
["Polychaete"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

The Doryctinae (Braconidae) of Costa Rica: genera and species of the tribe Heterospilini
A comprehensive taxonomic study is presented for the four genera and 286 species of the doryctine tribe Heterospilini occurring in Costa Rica. The tribe is represented almost entirely by the 280 species of the genus Heterospilus Haliday. Keys for identification of the genera and species are provided and the genera and species are described and illustrated. An interactive key to the species of Heterospilus also was prepared using Lucid Builder. The following new genus and species are described from Costa Rica: Paraheterospilus gen. n., P. ceciliaensis sp. n., P. eumekus sp. n., P. wilbotgardus sp. n., Heterospilus achi sp. n., H. achterbergi sp. n., H. aesculapius sp. n., H. agujas sp. n., H. agujasensis sp. n., H. alajuelus sp. n., H. albocoxalis sp. n., H. alejandroi sp. n., H. amuzgo sp. n., H. angelicae sp. n., H. angustus sp. n., H. aphrodite sp. n., H. apollo sp. n., H. arawak sp. n., H. areolatus sp. n., H. artemis sp. n., H. athena sp. n., H. attraholucus sp. n., H. aubreyae sp. n., H. austini sp. n., H. azofeifai sp. n., H. bacchus sp. n., H. barbalhoae sp. n., H. bennetti sp. n., H. bicolor sp. n., H. boharti sp. n., H. borucas sp. n., H. braeti sp. n., H. brethesi sp. n., H. breviarius sp. n., H. brevicornus sp. n., H. bribri sp. n., H. brullei sp. n., H. bruesi sp. n., H. cabecares sp. n., H. cacaoensis sp. n., H. cachiensis sp. n., H. cameroni sp. n., H. cangrejaensis sp. n., H. careonotaulus sp. n., H. caritus sp. n., H. carolinae sp. n., H. cartagoensis sp. n., H. catiensis sp. n., H. catorce sp. n., H. cero sp. n., H. chaoi sp. n., H. chilamatensis sp. n., H. chocho sp. n., H. chorotegus sp. n., H. chorti sp. n., H. cinco sp. n., H. cocopa sp. n., H. colliletus sp. n., H. colonensis sp. n., H. complanatus sp. n., H. conservatus sp. n., H. cora sp. n., H. corcovado sp. n., H. corrugatus sp. n., H. costaricensis sp. n., H. cressoni sp. n., H. cuatro sp. n., H. curtisi sp. n., H. cushmani sp. n., H. dani sp. n., H. demeter sp. n., H. dianae sp. n., H. diecinueve sp. n., H. dieciocho sp. n., H. dieciseis sp. n., H. diecisiete sp. n., H. diez sp. n., H. doce sp. n., H. dos sp. n., H. dulcus sp. n., H. eberhardi sp. n., H. ektorincon sp. n., H. emilius sp. n., H. empalmensis sp. n., H. enderleini sp. n., H. escazuensis sp. n., H. fahringeri sp. n., H. fischeri sp. n., H. flavidus sp. n., H. flavisoma sp. n., H. flavostigmus sp. n., H. foersteri sp. n., H. fonsecai sp. n., H. fournieri sp. n., H. gahani sp. n., H. garifuna sp. n., H. gauldi sp. n., H. golfodulcensis sp. n., H. gouleti sp. n., H. granulatus sp. n., H. grisselli sp. n., H. guanacastensis sp. n., H. guapilensis sp. n., H. hachaensis sp. n., H. halidayi sp. n., H. hansoni sp. n., H. hansonorum sp. n., H. haplocarinus sp. n., H. hedqvisti sp. n., H. hera sp. n., H. heredius sp. n., H. hespenheidei sp. n., H. holleyae sp. n., H. huddlestoni sp. n., H. huetares sp. n., H. hypermekus sp. n., H. itza sp. n., H. ixcatec sp. n., H. ixil sp. n., H. jabillosensis sp. n., H. jakaltek sp. n., H. janzeni sp. n., H. jennieae sp. n., H. jonmarshi sp. n., H. jupiter sp. n., H. kellieae sp. n., H. kiefferi sp. n., H. kikapu sp. n., H. kulai sp. n., H. kuna sp. n., H. lapierrei sp. n., H. lasalturus sp. n., H. laselvus sp. n., H. leenderti sp. n., H. leioenopus sp. n., H. leiponotaulus sp. n., H. lenca sp. n., H. levis sp. n., H. leviscutum sp. n., H. levitergum sp. n., H. limonensis sp. n., H. longinoi sp. n., H. longisulcus sp. n., H. longius sp. n., H. luteogaster sp. n., H. luteoscutum sp. n., H. luteus sp. n., H. macrocarinus sp. n., H. macrocaudatus sp. n., H. magnus sp. n., H. malaisei sp. n., H. mam sp. n., H. maritzaensis sp. n., H. mars sp. n., H. masneri sp. n., H. masoni sp. n., H. mellosus sp. n., H. menkei sp. n., H. mercury sp. n., H. milleri sp. n., H. miskito sp. n., H. mixtec sp. n., H. monteverde sp. n., H. mopanmaya sp. n., H. muertensis sp. n., H. muesebecki sp. n., H. nahua sp. n., H. neesi sp. n., H. nemestrinus sp. n., H. nephilim sp. n., H. nephus sp. n., H. nigracapitus sp. n., H. nigragonatus sp. n., H. nigricoxus sp. n., H. nixoni sp. n., H. noyesi sp. n., H. nueve sp. n., H. nunesi sp. n., H. once sp. n., H. orbitus sp. n., H. orosi sp. n., H. paloverde sp. n., H. pappi sp. n., H. parkeri sp. n., H. parvus sp. n., H. pech sp. n., H. penosa sp. n., H. petiolatus sp. n., H. petralbus sp. n., H. phaeocoxus sp. n., H. phaeoskelus sp. n., H. pharkidodus sp. n., H. phytorius sp. n., H. pitillaensis sp. n., H. poqomchi sp. n., H. poqomom sp. n., H. puertoviejoensis sp. n., H. puntarensis sp. n., H. qanjobal sp. n., H. quickei sp. n., H. quitirrisi sp. n., H. racostica sp. n., H. rama sp. n., H. ramirezi sp. n., H. ratzeburgi sp. n., H. reagani sp. n., H. reinhardi sp. n., H. retheospilus sp. n., H. rhabdotus sp. n., H. ricacosta sp. n., H. rinconensis sp. n., H. robbieae sp. n., H. rohweri sp. n., H. rojasi sp. n., H. romani sp. n., H. rugosus sp. n., H. sabrinae sp. n., H. saminae sp. n., H. sanjosensis sp. n., H. santarosensis sp. n., H. sanvitoensis sp. n., H. saturn sp. n., H. seis sp. n., H. sergeyi sp. n., H. sharkeyi sp. n., H. shawi sp. n., H. shenefelti sp. n., H. shonan sp. n., H. siete sp. n., H. similis sp. n., H. sinuatus sp. n., H. smithi sp. n., H. spiloheterus sp. n., H. staryi sp. n., H. stelfoxi sp. n., H. strazanaci sp. n., H. sumo sp. n., H. szepligeti sp. n., H. terrabas sp. n., H. thereospilus sp. n., H. tobiasi sp. n., H. tolupan sp. n., H. townesi sp. n., H. trece sp. n., H. tres sp. n., H. tricolor sp. n., H. trienta sp. n., H. tuberculatus sp. n., H. turrialbaensis sp. n., H. tzutujil sp. n., H. ugaldei sp. n., H. uno sp. n., H. variabilis sp. n., H. veinte sp. n., H. veintidos sp. n., H. veintitres sp. n., H. veintiuno sp. n., H. vierecki sp. n., H. villegasi sp. n., H. vittatus sp. n., H. vulcanus sp. n., H. wahli sp. n., H. warreni sp. n., H. washingtoni sp. n., H. wesmaeli sp. n., H. whartoni sp. n., H. whitfieldi sp. n., H. wildi sp. n., H. wilkinsoni sp. n., H. wrightae sp. n., H. xanthus sp. n., H. xerxes sp. n., H. xinca sp. n., H. yaqui sp. n., H. ypsilon sp. n., H. zapotec sp. n., H. zeus sp. n., H. zitaniae sp. n., H. zoque sp. n., H. zunigai sp. n., H. zurquiensis sp. n. One new combination is proposed, Pioscelus costaricensis (Marsh) comb. n.
["Parasitoid wasps"]

New and little known species of oribatid mites of the family Haplozetidae (Acari, Oribatida) from Ecuador
We described two new species, Haplozetes paraminimicoma sp. n. and Protoribates ecuadoriensis sp. n. from Ecuador. Additionally, a detailed supplementary description of Trachyoribates (Rostrozetes) glaber (Beck, 1965) is given on the basis of Ecuadorian specimens, which was known previously only from Peru. An annotated checklist of all identified taxa of Haplozetidae from Ecuador is presented.
["Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of the genus Karnyothrips (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae) from China
Karnyothrips cyathomorphus sp. n. (Phlaeothripidae: Phlaeothripinae) is described as a new apterous species in the genus Karnyothrips Watson 1923, and it represents the fourth species of the genus to be recorded from China. A key to the Chinese species is given.
["Litter thrips"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the rhinoceros beetle genus Oryctophileurus Kolbe with description of a new species, the male of O. varicosus Prell, and notes on biogeography (Scarabaeoidea, Dynastinae, Phileurini)
The genus Oryctophileurus is reviewed and its validity is supported by a combination of the following apomorphic characters: a single cephalic horn with lateral carina, pronotal cavity with ocellate punctures and two teeth or tubercles close behind the anterior pronotal margin. The male of Oryctophileurus varicosus Prell, 1934, is described for the first time. A new species, Oryctophileurus guerrai Perger & Grossi sp. n., from subhumid Tucuman-Bolivian forest in the Southern Bolivian Andes is described. The new species is distinguished from its closest relative, O. armicollis Prell, 1911, by a narrower distance between the inner teeth of the dorsal pronotal protuberances and a reduced area of weakly developed ocellate punctures above the posterolateral pronotal margin. The occurrence of Oryctophileurus species in areas of endemism along the eastern slope of the tropical Andes suggests that these populations represent biogeographic “relicts”, and the discovery of Oryctophileurus guerrai sp. n. in the southern Bolivian Andes suggests that this area is underrated with respect to insect diversity and endemism.
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Taxonomy, distribution, and natural history of flying foxes (Chiroptera, Pteropodidae) in the Mortlock Islands and Chuuk State, Caroline Islands
The taxonomy, biology, and population status of flying foxes (Pteropus spp.) remain little investigated in the Caroline Islands, Micronesia, where multiple endemic taxa occur. Our study evaluated the taxonomic relationships between the flying foxes of the Mortlock Islands (a subgroup of the Carolines) and two closely related taxa from elsewhere in the region, and involved the first ever field study of the Mortlock population. Through a review of historical literature, the name Pteropus pelagicus Kittlitz, 1836 is resurrected to replace the prevailing but younger name P. phaeocephalus Thomas, 1882 for the flying fox of the Mortlocks. On the basis of cranial and external morphological comparisons, Pteropus pelagicus is united taxonomically with P. insularis “Hombron and Jacquinot, 1842” (with authority herein emended to Jacquinot and Pucheran, 1853), and the two formerly monotypic species are now treated as subspecies—P. pelagicus pelagicus in the Mortlocks, and P. p. insularis on the islands of Chuuk Lagoon and Namonuito Atoll. The closest relative of P. pelagicus is P. tokudae Tate, 1934, of Guam, which is best regarded as a distinct species. Pteropus p. pelagicus is the only known resident bat in the Mortlock Islands, a chain of more than 100 atoll islands with a total land area of <12 km2. Based on field observations in 2004, we estimated a population size of 925–1,200 bats, most of which occurred on Satawan and Lukunor Atolls, the two largest and southernmost atolls in the chain. Bats were absent on Nama Island and possibly extirpated from Losap Atoll in the northern Mortlocks. Resident Mortlockese indicated bats were more common in the past, but that the population generally has remained stable in recent years. Most P. p. pelagicus roosted alone or in groups of 5–10 bats; a roost of 27 was the largest noted. Diet is comprised of at least eight plant species, with breadfruit (Artocarpus spp.) being a preferred food. Records of females with young (April, July) and pregnant females (July) suggest an extended breeding season. Pteropus p. pelagicus appears most threatened by the prospect of sea level rise associated with global climate change, which has the potential to submerge or reduce the size of atolls in the Mortlocks. Occasional severe typhoons probably temporarily reduce populations on heavily damaged atolls, but hunting and ongoing habitat loss are not current problems for the subspecies.
["Pteropus phaeocephalus"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Redescription of Mymarilla Westwood, new synonymies under Cremnomymar Ogloblin (Hymenoptera, Mymaridae) and discussion of unusual wings
The monotypic genus Mymarilla Westwood is known only from St. Helena, a remote island in the South Atlantic Ocean. The peculiar species M. wollastoni Westwood (Mymaridae) is redescribed and illustrated from non-type material. Mymarilla is compared with Cremnomymar Ogloblin spp. from the Juan Fernández Islands in the South Pacific Ocean. Stephanodes Enock is shown to be the most likely sister genus to Mymarilla. Nesopolynema Ogloblin, syn. n., Oncomymar Ogloblin, syn. n., Scolopsopteron Ogloblin, syn.n., are placed in synonymy under Cremnomymar and their species transferred as Cremnomymar caudatum (Ogloblin 1952), comb. n., C. dipteron (Ogloblin 1957), comb. n., and C. kuscheli (Ogloblin 1952), comb. n. Wing shape and wing reductions in Mymaridae are discussed in relation to biogeography, particularly with respect island faunas and to four genera, Cremnomymar, Mymarilla, Parapolynema Fidalgo, and Richteria Girault, some or all of whose species have more or less convex fore wings.
["Mymaridae"]

Review of the Parasa undulata (Cai, 1983) species group with the first conifer-feeding larva for Limacodidae and descriptions of two new species from China and Taiwan (Lepidoptera, Limacodidae)
Although the caterpillars are well-known for the stings and magnificent coloration, the systematics of Limacodidae is historically neglected and chaotic due to the difficulty in matching the larval with adult stages as well as the very conservative and convergent adult morphology. One of the biggest taxonomic problems surrounds a collective group from Southeastern Asia, termed the “green limacodid moths”, which harbours at least 90 species placed in the genus Parasa Walker, 1859 and 14 “subunits”. The P. undulata group was previously composed of 3 species from China and Taiwan, and characterized only by wing pattern. This species group is extensively studied herein with two new species described, i.e. P. viridiflamma sp. n. (Taiwan) and P. minwangi sp. n. (S. China), and discovery of female genitalia of three species, presenting new phylogenetic insights in this potentially paraphyletic genus. In addition, one limacodid larva was found to be feeding exclusively on Picea (Pinaceae) in Taiwan. Its identity, Parasa pygmy Solovyev, 2010 in P. undulata group, is confirmed through matching its COI sequence to the adult. This discovery is also biologically significant because the previous known host breadth of Parasa was of polyphagy on various angiosperm plant families. This case, therefore, represents the first record of conifer-feeding behavior in this family as well as the first of specialized herbivory in the genus. Meanwhile, the background match between Picea leaves and larval coloration is shared with other Picea-feeding insects. This phenomenon is worth of further investigation in the aspect of convergent evolution of crypsis associated with a particular plant.
["Conifer-feeder"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Description and ecology of two new species of Gyronotus van Lansberge, 1874 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae) from southern Africa
Recent collections in KwaZulu-Natal and Swaziland have led to the discovery of two new species of the flightless and highly threatened Scarabaeinae genus Gyronotus van Lansberge, 1874. A description of G. perissinottoi sp. n. and G. schuelei sp. n. is provided here, along with notes on their habitat and ecology. Unlike the vast majority of the species previously known in the genus, which have been reported as forest dwellers, the two new species are found during daytime in grassland/savanna vegetation, at the margin of forest patches.
["Scarabaeinae"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Range extension of Brathinus satoi in China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
Brathinus satoi Kishimoto & Shimada, 2003 is recorded from Longwangshan Nature Reserve, Zhejiang, China. Some diagnostic characters of the species are discussed based on more specimens, and some biological notes are made on the species.

A review of the Nearctic genus Zealeuctra Ricker (Plecoptera, Leuctridae), with the description of a new species from the Cumberland Plateau region of eastern North America
The stonefly genus Zealeuctra (Plecoptera: Leuctridae) is endemic to the central and eastern Nearctic regions and is presently comprised of 10 species. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine and redescribe two important diagnostic features typically used to identify and define the adult male stage: the large, anteriorly-recurved epiproct and the medial cleft of the ninth abdominal tergite. SEM was also employed to depict the posteromedial portion of female 7th sternum. A new species, Z. ukayodi sp. n., is described from the Cumberland Plateau region of northeastern Alabama and Tennessee. The new species appears superficially similar to Z. talladega Grubbs, but is easily differentiated by characteristics of the male medial cleft. An updated taxonomic key to the males of Zealeuctra is provided.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

First record and redescription of Macandrewella cochinensis Gopalakrishnan, 1973 (Copepoda, Scolecitrichidae) from the Red Sea, with notes on swarm formation
During a study of the epipelagic zooplankton carried out near the fringing reef around Sharm El-Sheikh area, in the northern Red Sea, female and male specimens of the poorly known calanoid copepod Macandrewella cochinensis Gopalakrishnan, 1973 were collected. This is the first record of species occurrence in the Red Sea. Macandrewella cochinensis was previously known only from the offshore water of Cochin, south west of India. The Red Sea specimens are described in details herein to allow their comparison with the specimens from the type locality, because original description of M. cochinensis is incomplete and causes some taxonomic confusion. The most important characters that may have been overlooked in the original description are: shape of projections of the female distolateral prosomal borders, details of morphology of the asymmetrical female genital double-somite and presence of leg 5 in female.
["Zooplankton"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A systematic revision of Baconia Lewis (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Exosternini)
Here we present a complete revision of the species of Baconia. Up until now there have been 27 species assigned to the genus (Mazur, 2011), in two subgenera (Binhister Cooman and Baconia s. str.), with species in the Neotropical, Nearctic, Palaearctic, and Oriental regions. We recognize all these species as valid and correctly assigned to the genus, and redescribe all of them. We synonymize Binhister, previously used for a polyphyletic assemblage of species with varied relationships in the genus. We move four species into Baconia from other genera, and describe 85 species as new, bringing the total for the genus to 116 species. We divide these into 12 informal species groups, leaving 13 species unplaced to group. We present keys and diagnoses for all species, as well as habitus photos and illustrations of male genitalia for nearly all. The genus now contains the following species and species groups: Baconia loricata group [B. loricata Lewis, 1885, B. patula Lewis, 1885, B. gounellei (Marseul, 1887a), B. jubaris (Lewis, 1901), B. festiva (Lewis, 1891), B. foliosoma sp. n., B. sapphirina sp. n., B. furtiva sp. n., B. pernix sp. n., B. applanatis sp. n., B. disciformis sp. n., B. nebulosa sp. n., B. brunnea sp. n.], B. godmani group [B. godmani (Lewis, 1888), B. venusta (J. E. LeConte, 1845), B. riehli (Marseul, 1862), comb. n., B. scintillans sp. n., B. isthmia sp. n., B. rossi sp. n., B. navarretei sp. n., B. maculata sp. n., B. deliberata sp. n., B. excelsa sp. n., B. violacea (Marseul, 1853), B. varicolor (Marseul, 1887b), B. dives (Marseul, 1862), B. eximia (Lewis, 1888), B. splendida sp. n., B. jacinta sp. n., B. prasina sp. n., B. opulenta sp. n., B. illustris (Lewis, 1900), B. choaspites (Lewis, 1901), B. lewisi Mazur, 1984], B. salobrus group [B. salobrus (Marseul, 1887b), B. turgifrons sp. n., B. crassa sp. n., B. anthracina sp. n., B. emarginata sp. n., B. obsoleta sp. n.], B. ruficauda group [B. ruficauda sp. n., B. repens sp. n.], B. angusta group [B. angusta Schmidt, 1893a, B. incognita sp. n., B. guartela sp. n., B. bullifrons sp. n., B. cavei sp. n., B. subtilis sp. n., B. dentipes sp. n., B. rubripennis sp. n., B. lunatifrons sp. n.], B. aeneomicans group [B. aeneomicans (Horn, 1873), B. pulchella sp. n., B. quercea sp. n., B. stephani sp. n., B. irinae sp. n., B. fornix sp. n., B. slipinskii Mazur, 1981, B. submetallica sp. n., B. diminua sp. n., B. rufescens sp. n., B. punctiventer sp. n., B. aulaea sp. n., B. mustax sp. n., B. plebeia sp. n., B. castanea sp. n., B. lescheni sp. n., B. oblonga sp. n., B. animata sp. n., B. teredina sp. n., B. chujoi (Cooman, 1941), B. barbarus (Cooman, 1934), B. reposita sp. n., B. kubani sp. n., B. wallacea sp. n., B. bigemina sp. n., B. adebratti sp. n., B. silvestris sp. n.], B. cylindrica group [B. cylindrica sp. n., B. chatzimanolisi sp. n.], B. gibbifer group [B. gibbifer sp. n., B. piluliformis sp. n., B. maquipucunae sp. n., B. tenuipes sp. n., B. tuberculifer sp. n., B. globosa sp. n.], B. insolita group [B. insolita (Schmidt, 1893a), comb. n., B. burmeisteri (Marseul, 1870), B. tricolor sp. n., B. pilicauda sp. n.], B. riouka group [B. riouka (Marseul, 1861), B. azuripennis sp. n.], B. famelica group [B. famelica sp. n., B. grossii sp. n., B. redemptor sp. n., B. fortis sp. n., B. longipes sp. n., B. katieae sp. n., B. cavifrons (Lewis, 1893), comb. n., B. haeterioides sp. n.], B. micans group [B. micans (Schmidt, 1889a), B. carinifrons sp. n., B. fulgida (Schmidt, 1889c)], Baconia incertae sedis [B. chilense (Redtenbacher, 1867), B. glauca (Marseul, 1884), B. coerulea (Bickhardt, 1917), B. angulifrons sp. n., B. sanguinea sp. n., B. viridimicans (Schmidt, 1893b), B. nayarita sp. n., B. viridis sp. n., B. purpurata sp. n., B. aenea sp. n., B. clemens sp. n., B. leivasi sp. n., B. atricolor sp. n.]. We designate lectotypes for the following species: Baconia loricata Lewis, 1885, Phelister gounellei Marseul, 1887, Baconia jubaris Lewis, 1901, Baconia festiva Lewis, 1891, Platysoma venustum J.E. Leconte, 1845, Phelister riehli Marseul, 1862, Phelister violaceus Marseul, 1853, Phelister varicolor Marseul, 1887b, Phelister illustris Lewis, 1900, Baconia choaspites Lewis, 1901, Epierus festivus Lewis, 1898, Phelister salobrus Marseul, 1887, Baconia angusta Schmidt, 1893a, Phelister insolitus Schmidt, 1893a, Pachycraerus burmeisteri Marseul, 1870, Phelister riouka Marseul, 1861, Homalopygus cavifrons Lewis, 1893, Phelister micans Schmidt, 1889a, Phelister coeruleus Bickhardt, 1917, and Phelister viridimicans Schmidt, 1893b. We designate neotypes for Baconia patula Lewis, 1885 and Hister aeneomicans Horn, 1873, whose type specimens are lost.

An unusually rich scuttle fly fauna (Diptera, Phoridae) from north of the Arctic Circle in the Kola Peninsula, N. W. Russia
64 species of Phoridae, in 6 genera, are reported from the Kola Peninsula, north of the Arctic Circle. The new species Megaselia elenae and M. kozlovi are described. 33 species of Megaselia, only known from females, are given code numbers. Keys to the species of all the females of Megaselia and Phora are provided; and also a key to the males European Megaselia species with a notopleural cleft.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

The first Cordyla Meigen species (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) from continental Australia and Tasmania
A new species of Mycetophilidae, Cordyla australica sp. n., is described from continental Australia and Tasmania, representing the first Cordyla record in the region. A detailed description of its morphology with illustrations of male and female terminalia and a map of the collecting localities are provided. According to the structure of male terminalia, C. australica sp. n. belongs to the C. murina species-group that has 13 species worldwide. Within the group C. australica sp. n. resembles C. murina but has a unique outline of the hypoproct and medial branch of the gonostylus. The observed distributional pattern is restricted to the rainforest of eastern Australia and Tasmania.

Notes on the Chinese species of Dianous group I (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)
Dianous zhujianqingi Tang & Li, 2011 syn. n. is synonymised with Dianous cyaneovirens (Cameron, 1930). Additional records of Dianous yao Rougemont, 1981, Dianous haraldi Puthz, 2000 and Dianous huanghaoi Tang & Li, 2011 are provided.

On Pulchritia new genus, with a reappraisal of the genera of Trichotriidae (Rotifera, Monogononta)
During the study of rotifers collected in Eastern DR Congo, we rediscovered specimens that correspond to Monostyla dorsicornuta Van Oye, 1926. This species, which we redescribe, had not been seen since it’s summary description, and lacked type material. Our analysis reveals that the animal belongs to Trichotriidae rather than to Lecane (presently considered to include Monostyla) or Lecanidae, but is nevertheless characterised by a foot structure that is remarkably convergent to that of Lecanidae, and different from all other genera of Trichotriidae.We conclude that the species and the closely related South American Macrochaetus kostei (José de Paggi, Branco & Kozlowsky-Suzuki, 2000) belong to a new genus of Trichotriidae; the two offer a rare example of African-South American vicariance in rotifers.We further provide emended diagnoses of the remaining genera of Trichotriidae, to conform these to the new information and to address some inconsistencies in these.
["Africa-South America vicariance"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Bambusananus cuihuashanensis, a new bamboo-feeding leafhopper species of Athysanini (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae) from Shaanxi, China
Bambusananus cuihuashanensis sp. n. (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae: Athysanini), a new bamboo-feeding leafhopper species, is described and illustrated from Shaanxi Province of China. Checklist, host plants and distribution for each species of Bambusananus is given along with a key to all known species.
["Bamboo leafhopper"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Plant Molecular Biology Research"]

Sea anemones (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Actiniaria) from coral reefs in the southern Gulf of Mexico
Seven sea anemone species from coral reefs in the southern Gulf of Mexico are taxonomically diagnosed and images from living specimens including external and internal features, and cnidae are provided. Furthermore, the known distribution ranges from another 10 species are extended. No species records of sea anemones have been previously published in the primary scientific literature for coral reefs in the southern Gulf of Mexico and thus, this study represents the first inventory for the local actiniarian fauna.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

The genus Erechthias Meyrick of Ascension Island, including discovery of a new brachypterous species (Lepidoptera, Tineidae)
One previously named and two new species of the tineid genus Erechthias Meyrick are described and illustrated from the small, remote, mid-Atlantic Ascension Island. With these additions the Lepidoptera fauna of Ascension now totals 38 known species. Little is known regarding the biology of the two new species of Erechthias, and none of the species has been reared from larvae from Ascension. Erechthias minuscula (Walsingham) is a widespread, largely pantropical species first described from the West Indies. Larvae of E. minuscula are known to be scavengers on a wide variety of dead plant material. Erechthias ascensionae, new species, is one of two species of Erechthias now known to be endemic to the island. The other endemic species, Erechthias grayi, new species, is further remarkable inwing reduction occurring in both sexes. It is one of the few species of Lepidoptera known where this extreme of brachyptery involving both sexes has evolved. The larvae of E. grayi are believed to be lichenivorous, and larval cases suspected to represent this species are illustrated.

Redescription of the enigmatic genus Genuotermes Emerson (Isoptera, Termitidae, Termitinae)
The imago and soldier castes of the Neotropical Termitinae species Genuotermes spinifer Emerson are redescribed. The gut anatomy of the worker is described in detail for the first time, and morphological variations in the soldier are noted and illustrated. The known geographical distribution of G. spinifer is greatly expanded.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Genus Microsternus Lewis (1887) from China, with description of a new genus Neosternus from Asia (Coleoptera, Erotylidae, Dacnini)
This work treats species of the genus Microsternus Lewis, 1887 from Asia and North America. A new genus is described: Neosternus (type species Microsternus higonius Lewis, 1887). A new species is described: Microsternus pengzhongi. A new synonym is provided: Microsternus tricolor taiwanicus Nakane (=Microsternus tricolor Lewis). Three species previously placed in Microsternus Lewis, 1887 are transferred to Neosternus resulting in the following three new combinations: Neosternus higonius (Lewis, 1887), Neosternus taiwanus (Chûjô, 1976), and Neosternus hisamatsui (Nakane, 1981).

Pristomyrmex tsujii sp. n. and P. mandibularis Mann (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Fiji
Pristomyrmex tsujii sp. n., an endemic species of the Fiji islands, is described from the worker, ergatoid queen, alate queen and male castes. The alate queen and male castes of Pristomyrmex mandibularis Mann are also described for the first time. The ergatoid queens for both species appear to be morphologically intermediate between the worker and alate queen castes. Pristomyrmex tsujii is readily distinguished from P. mandibularis by the lack of well-developed propodeal spines. Although both species occur across the Fijian archipelago, they are rarely encountered and workers are most often collected from sifted litter. The descriptions are illustrated with specimen photographs, line drawings and a distribution map.
["Myrmicinae"]

A taxonomic revision of Tyrini of the Oriental region. V. Revision of the genus Lasinus Sharp, 1874 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
The genus Lasinus Sharp, 1874 of the Pselaphodes complex of genera (Pselaphitae: Tyrini: Tyrina) is revised. The three so far known species, L. mandarinus Raffray, 1890, L. monticola Sawada, 1961 and L.spinosus Sharp, 1874 are redescribed. Eight new species, L. sinicus sp. n. from China, L. mikado sp. n., L.yamamotoi sp. n., L. inexpectatus sp. n., L. yakushimanus sp. n., L. amamianus sp. n., L. saoriae sp. n., and L. okinawanus sp. n. from Japan, are described. And all species are illustrated. Lectotypes are designated for L. mandarinus and L. spinosus. An identification key to species of the genus Lasinus is provided.
["Tyrini"]

Taxonomic and nomenclatural notes on the genera Themus Motschulsky and Lycocerus Gorham (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
The following taxonomic or nomenclatural changes are proposed: Themus (s.str.) regalis (Gorham, 1889) nom. rest.; T. (s.str.) scutulatus Wittmer, 1983 = T. (s.str.) hmong Kazantsev, 2007, syn. n.; T. (Telephorops) coelestis (Gorham, 1889) = T. violetipennis Wang & Yang, 1992, syn. n.; T. (Telephorops) uniformis Wittmer, 1983, stat. n. = T. (Telephorops) cribripennis Wittmer, 1983, syn. n.; T. (Haplothemus) licenti Pic, 1938, stat.rev., resurrected from synonymy with T. coriaceipennis (Fairmaire, 1889); Lycocerus aenescens (Fairmaire, 1889) = L. tcheonanus (Pic, 1922), syn. n.; L. asperipennis (Fairmaire, 1891) = L. wangi (Švihla,2004), syn. n.; L. borneoensis nom. n. for Athemellus atricolor (Wittmer, 1972); L. bilineatus (Wittmer, 1995) = L. amplus (Wittmer, 1995), syn. n.; L. fairmairei nom. n. et stat. rev. for Athemus dimidiaticrus (Fairmaire, 1889), originally in Telephorus, resurrected from synonymy with L. orientalis (Gorham,1889); L. confossicollis (Fairmaire, 1891), comb. n. hereby transferred from Cantharis = L. multiimpressus (Wittmer, 1997), syn. n.; L. inopaciceps (Pic, 1926) = Athemus (Athemellus) bimaculicollis (Švihla, 2005), syn. n.; L. nigratus nom. n. for L. nigricolor (Wittmer, 1972), originally in Podabrinus; L. plebejus (Kiesenwetter, 1874) = L. brunneonotaticeps (Pic, 1922), syn. n. = Cantharis rufonotaticeps Pic, 1921, syn. n.; L. swampingatus (Pic, 1916), comb. n., hereby transferred from Cantharis. The neotypes of Themus violetipennis Wang & Yang, 1992 and Athemus (s.str.) maculithorax Wang & Yang, 1992 are designated respectively.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Lethrus (Lethrus) schneideri sp. n. (Coleoptera, Geotrupidae) from Greece
Lethrus (Lethrus) schneideri Král & Hillert, sp. n. from Thrace, Greece, is described. The new species is morphologically most similar and probably closely related to L. (L.) apterus (Laxmann, 1770) and L. (L.) ares Král, Rejsek & Schneider, 2001. Diagnostic characters (shape of mandibles, ventral mandible processes, pronotum and parameres) are illustrated. Character matrix for separation of males of the Lethrus species closely related to L. schneideri Král & Hillert, sp. n. and geographic ranges for all species studied are mapped.
["Lethrus"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the Australian Ceratocanthinae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea, Hybosoridae)
The Australian fauna of Ceratocanthinae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea, Hybosoridae) is revised. Two genera are present, both shared with Asia, with a total of seven species, all localized in eastern Queensland and all except one, endemic to Australia. Cyphopisthes is comprised of three species, two of them new (Cyphopisthes yorkensis sp. n. and C. monteithi sp. n., the latter, together with C. descarpentriesi Paulian, 1977 displaying an unusual ecology, with occurrence in the southern Queensland dry rainforest/scrub habitats), and Pterorthochaetes is comprised of four species, two of them new (Pterorthochaetes danielsi sp. n. and P.storeyi sp. n.). Descriptions, distribution, ecological remarks and a key to species are provided.
["Queensland"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Taxonomic revision of the genus Carasobarbus Karaman, 1971 (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae)
Representatives of the fish genus Carasobarbus Karaman, 1971 (Actinopterygii: Cyprinidae) from the Middle East and North Africa were previously placed in 14 different genus-group taxa (Barbellion, Barbus, Barynotus, Capoeta, Carasobarbus, Cyclocheilichthys, Kosswigobarbus, Labeobarbus, Luciobarbus, Pseudotor, Puntius, Systomus, Tor and Varicorhinus). The generic assignment of several species changed frequently, necessitating a re-evaluation of their taxonomic status. In this study, the genus Carasobarbus is revised based on comparative morphological examinations of about 1300 preserved specimens from collections of several museums and freshly collected material. The species Carasobarbus apoensis, C. canis, C. chantrei, C. exulatus, C. fritschii, C. harterti, C. kosswigi, C. luteus and C. sublimus form a monophyletic group that shares the following combination of characters: medium-sized barbels with a smooth last unbranched dorsal-fin ray, nine or 10 branched dorsal-fin rays and six branched anal fin-rays; scales large, shield-shaped, with many parallel radii; the lateral line containing 25 to 39 scales; the pharyngeal teeth hooked, 2.3.5-5.3.2 or 2.3.4-4.3.2; one or two pairs of barbels. The species are described in detail, their taxonomic status is re-evaluated and an identification key is provided. A lectotype of Systomus luteus Heckel, 1843 is designated. Carasobarbus Karaman, 1971, Kosswigobarbus Karaman, 1971, and Pseudotor Karaman, 1971 are subjective synonyms, and acting as First Reviser we gave precedence to the name Carasobarbus.
["Cyprinidae"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Two new species of Entomobryidae (Collembola) of Taibai Mountain from China
Taibai Mountain is the highest peak of Qinling Mountain Ridge, a climate and geographical demarcation of the southern and northern China. Collembolan species of family Entomobryidae are reported from this region for the first time in this paper. Two new species, Homidia taibaiensis sp. n. and Sinella triseta sp. n. of Entomobryinae are described. Illustrations and differences with similar species are provided.
["Entomobryinae"]

Two new species of Meropidia Hippa & Thompson, 1983 (Diptera, Syrphidae) from the Andes Mountains
Two new species of Meropidia Hippa & Thompson, 1983 (Diptera, Syrphidae) are described, Meropidia nitida Morales, sp. n. and M. flavens Hippa & Ståhls sp. n., from Bolivia and Colombia respectively. A key to all described Meropidia species is provided.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of Pseudodiaptomus (Crustacea, Copepoda, Calanoida, Pseudodiaptomidae) from the Prasae River Estuary, Gulf of Thailand
A new species of the calanoid copepod genus Pseudodiaptomus was collected from the Prasae River Estuary, Rayong Province, on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand. This species is definitely assigned to the lobus species group sensu Walter (1986a). The female of the new species differs from other congeners in the elongate genital double-somite with a blunt process ventrally and the second urosomite about 2.54 times as long as wide. The male is also easily distinguished from other congeners by the structure of the right fifth leg.The present new species is a euryhaline species and occurred in brackish waters with salinity ranging from 0.7 to 23.3. Its breeding season may be from June to October, as indicated by the presence of egg-sacs.

Hesperentomon yangi sp. n. from Jiangsu Province, Eastern China, with analyses of DNA barcodes (Protura, Acerentomata, Hesperentomidae)
Hesperentomon yangi sp. n. is described from eastern China. Its DNA barcodes are sequenced and compared to the similar species of the genus. Hesperentomon yangi sp. n. is characterized by 12 posterior setae on tergites II–VI, 8 posterior setae on sternites IV–VI (seta Pc absent), absence of seta sd4 on head, absence of seta P2a on tergite VII, 6 and 8 anterior setae on mesosternum and metasternum respectively, and few teeth on comb. It differs from H. xiningense Bu & Yin, 2007 and H. nanshanensis Bu & Yin, 2007 in the chaetotaxy of mesosternum and metanotum, maxillary gland, length and shape of some sensilla on foretarsus, as well as the body porotaxy. The genetic divergences of DNA barcodes sequences between Hesperentomon yangi sp. n., H. xiningense and H. nanshanensis are 24.1% on average, which is distinctly higher than the divergences between individuals of the new species (0.5%). Molecular data provide a solid evidence of the new species identified by the morphological characters.
["Protura"]

Two new species in the family Axinellidae (Porifera, Demospongiae) from British Columbia and adjacent waters
Two new species of Demospongiae are described for British Columbia and adjacent waters in the family Axinellidae, Auletta krautteri sp. n. and Dragmacidon kishinensis sp. n. They represent range extensions for both of these genera. Both are fairly commonly encountered, A. krautteri below diving depths (87 to at least 300 m) and D. kishinensis in shallow water (intertidal to 30 m). We propose an amended genus diagnosis for Auletta to account for the variability among species in principal spicules that form the ascending tracts to be either oxeas, styles or strongyles rather than just oxeas.
["Porifera"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Two new species of Chaco Tullgren from the Atlantic coast of Uruguay (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Nemesiidae)
We describe two new species of the nemesiid spider genus Chaco from Rocha Province, Uruguay. These new species are diagnosed based on genital morphology, male tibial apophysis spination, and burrow entrance. We test cospecificity of one species, C. costai, via laboratory mating experiments. The new species are diagnosed and illustrated and habitat characteristics, and capture behavior are described. We conduct a cladistic analysis based on a previously published morphological character matrix that now includes the newly described species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Morphology, bioacoustics, and ecology of Tibicen neomexicensis sp. n., a new species of cicada from the Sacramento Mountains in New Mexico, U.S.A. (Hemiptera, Cicadidae, Tibicen)
Tibicen neomexicensis sp. n., a new species of cicada found in the Sacramento Mountains of southcentral New Mexico, is described. T. neomexicensis closely resembles T. chiricahua Davis morphologically, but males of the two species have highly distinct calling songs that differ in phrasal structure, amplitude burst rates, and pulse structure. Unlike T. chiricahua, male T. neomexicensis use conspicuous dorso-ventral abdominal movements to modulate the amplitude and frequency of their calls. T. neomexicensis is also smaller on average than T. chiricahua, and differences in the color patterns of the wing venation identify these two species morphologically. Both species are dependent on pinyon-juniper woodlands and have similar emergence phenologies. These species appear to be allopatric, with T. chiricahua found west of the Rio Grande in New Mexico, Arizona, and Mexico, and T. neomexicensis so far known only from New Mexico, east of the Rio Grande. T. chiricahua and T. neomexicensis males share a common genitalic structure that separates them from all other species of Tibicen, and the possible evolutionary and biogeographic history of these likely sister species is also discussed.
["Cicadidae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

A new species of Numbakullidae Guţu & Heard, 2002 (Tanaidacea, Peracarida, Crustacea) from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
A new species of Numbakulla Guţu & Heard, 2002 (Tanaidacea) is described from Heron Island (southern Great Barrier Reef, Queensland) collected during the Census of Coral Reefs Ecosystem (CReefs) program. The new species is the third member of the family and can be recognized by the combination of characters as: length/width ratio of the body, which is 6:7, pereonite 4 longer than the rest, the presence of eyes, a blunt rostrum, antenna article 2 elongated, cheliped carpus with row of inner setae, pereopod 6 carpus with spines, pleopod endopod with denticles.
["Tanaidacea"]

On the occurrence of the fireworm Eurythoe complanata complex (Annelida, Amphinomidae) in the Mediterranean Sea with an updated revision of the alien Mediterranean amphinomids
The presence of two species within the Eurythoe complanata complex in the Mediterranean Sea is reported, as well as their geographical distributions. One species, Eurythoe laevisetis, occurs in the eastern and central Mediterranean, likely constituting the first historical introduction to the Mediterranean Sea and the other, Eurythoe complanata, in both eastern and Levantine basins. Brief notes on their taxonomy are also provided and their potential pathways for introduction to the Mediterranean are discussed. A simplified key to the Mediterranean amphinomid genera and species of Eurythoe and Linopherus is presented plus an updated revision of the alien amphinomid species reported previously from the Mediterranean Sea. A total of five exotic species have been included; information on their location, habitat, date of introduction and other relevant features is also provided.
["Alien polychaetes"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Taxonomic studies on the ant genus Cerapachys Smith (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from India
The Indian species of the ant genus Cerapachys Smith are keyed. Twelve species are recognized of which 6 are described as new. The species are: C. aitkenii Forel, C. alii sp. n., C. anokha sp. n., C. besucheti Brown, C. biroi Forel, C. indicus Brown, C. longitarsus (Mayr), C. nayana sp. n., C. schoedli sp. n., C.seema sp. n., C. sulcinodis Emery and C. wighti sp. n. Geographic distribution and group affinities of the new species are discussed. A revised key to the Indian species is provided. The rare ergatoid queens of C. nayana, C. schoedli and C. seema are reported. Formed in response to selective pressures these ergatoid queens have a significant role in dispersal strategies and contribute much to our understanding of the biology of these ants.

Updated Italian checklist of Soldier Flies (Diptera, Stratiomyidae)
An updated checklist for Stratiomyidae of Italy is presented. Previous knowledge and information are put together in a comprehensive way, integrated also with results obtained by sampling with Malaise traps in some of the test areas of the LIFE+ project ManFor C.BD.At the time of writing, with 91 known species, the Italian fauna of Stratiomyidae is the richest in Europe. Neopachygaster meromelas (Dufour, 1841) and Zabrachia minutissima (Zetterstedt, 1838) are new to the Italian fauna. A comprehensive key to the European species of Chorisops Rondani 1856 is given.
["Italy"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

First record of leaf-hole shelters used and modified by leaf beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae), with descriptions of two new Orthaltica Crotch species from southern India
Behavioural novelties observed in adult leaf beetles of two new Orthaltica Crotch species include: 1) the use of low cost leaf-hole shelters, either in pre-formed holes produced by larger beetles that fed on the same leaf, or artificially created holes as part of an experiment; and 2) the use of faeces to partition the hole. Two new southern Indian species of the genus Orthaltica are described and illustrated: O. syzygium and O. terminalia. Host plants are identified for both species. A key to the Indian species of Orthaltica is provided.
["Leaf-hole shelter"]

Diversity of Porifera in the Mediterranean coralligenous accretions, with description of a new species
Temperate reefs, built by multilayers of encrusting algae accumulated during hundreds to thousands of years, represent one of the most important habitats of the Mediterranean Sea. These bioconstructions are known as “coralligenous” and their spatial complexity allow the formation of heterogeneous microhabitats offering opportunities for a large number of small cryptic species hardly ever considered.Although sponges are the dominant animal taxon in the coralligenous rims with both insinuating and perforating species, this group is until now poorly known. Aim of this work is to develop a reference baseline about the taxonomic knowledge of sponges and, considering their high level of phenotypic plasticity, evaluate the importance of coralligenous accretions as a pocket for biodiversity conservation.Collecting samples in four sites along the coast of the Ligurian Sea, we recorded 133 sponge taxa (115 of them identified at species level and 18 at genus level). One species, Eurypon gracilis is new for science; three species, Paratimea oxeata, Clathria (Microciona) haplotoxa and Eurypon denisae are new records for the Italian sponge fauna, eleven species are new findings for the Ligurian Sea. Moreover, seventeen species have not been recorded before from the coralligenous community. The obtained data, together with an extensive review of the existing literature, increase to 273 the number of sponge species associated with the coralligenous concretions and confirm that this habitat is an extraordinary reservoir of biodiversity still largely unexplored, not only taxonomically, but also as to peculiar adaptations and life histories.
["Porifera"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

First records and description of metallic red females of Euglossa (Alloglossura) gorgonensis Cheesman, with notes on color variation within the species (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Metallic coloration is one of the signatures of orchid bees of the genus Euglossa, with some species showing variation associated with their geographic range. Euglossa (Alloglossura) gorgonensis Cheesman exhibits color variation, ranging from mainly green specimens in the southern extreme of its range (Pacific slope of Colombia), to noticeably reddish specimens in parts of the northern known limits of its range (Pacific slope of southern Costa Rica). Here we present the first description of females from Costa Rica belonging to the reddish extreme of the color variation.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

The enigmatic Otway odd-clawed spider (Progradungula otwayensis Milledge, 1997, Gradungulidae, Araneae): Natural history, first description of the female and micro-computed tomography of the male palpal organ
The recently described cribellate gradungulid Progradungula otwayensis Milledge, 1997 is endemic to the Great Otway National Park (Victoria, Australia) and known from only one male and a few juvenile specimens. In a recent survey we recorded 47 specimens at several localities across the western part of the Great Otway National park. Our field data suggest that this species is dependant on the microclimate in the hollows of old myrtle beech trees since other hollow trees were very much less inhabited. Furthermore, we describe the female for the first time and study the male palpal organ by using X-ray microtomography. The female genitalia are characterized by eight spermathecae which are grouped in two quartets. The spermophor resembles the general organization of gradungulids, but is similar to Kaiya Gray, 1987 by a convoluted appearance within the embolus. The muscle 30 is located in the cymbium and resembles the organization of other non-entelegyne Araneomorphae.

Three new species of Omalodes (Omalodes) (Histeridae, Histerinae) from South America
Three new species of Omalodes are described from South America, including descriptions of male and female genitalia. Omalodes (O.) mazuri sp. n. is described from Peru and Bolivia; Omalodes (O.) punctulatus sp.n. from Brazil, and Omalodes (O.) rivus sp. n. from Bolivia and Brazil. This is the first paper with detailed information on the male and female genitalia of the genus, showing a great degree of variation to characterize different species. All three new species can be easily distinguished from other known Omalodes and from each other, on the basis of morphology and male genitalia pattern.
["Omalodini"]

First record of Clausidium (Copepoda, Clausidiidae) from Brazil: a new species associated with ghost shrimps Neocallichirus grandimana (Gibbes, 1850) (Decapoda, Callianassidae)
A new clausidiid copepod was found living in galleries of ghost shrimps Neocallichirus grandimana (Gibbes, 1850) in Natal, Brazil. The new species resembles to Clausidium senegalense Humes, 1957 and C. vancouverense (Haddon, 1912) in the armature of P2–P5 of the female, and shares with C. senegalense similar segmentation and armature of the antenna and maxilla of the female. Nevertheless, it can be easily distinguished from its congeners by the unique characteristics observed in the antenna, maxilliped and first leg of males, as well as by the anal somite, maxillule and maxilliped of the females. This new species extends the group distribution to the Southwest Atlantic and represents the first record of the genus in Brazil. A key for the identification of the species based on females of Clausidium is provided.

Shallow water marine gammaridean amphipods of Pulau Tioman, Malaysia, with the description of a new species
Eleven taxa including one new species of gammaridean amphipods are reported from the waters of Pulau Tioman. The presence of Tethygeneia sunda sp. n. represents the first record of the genus from the South China Sea. Additional material of Ampelisca brevicornis (Costa, 1853); Cymadusa vadosa Imbach, 1967; Paradexamine setigera Hirayama, 1984; Ericthonius pugnax (Dana, 1853); Leucothoe furina (Savigny, 1816); Microlysias xenokeras (Stebbing, 1918); Monoculodes muwoni Jo, 1990 are identified from the South China Sea, supporting previous records by Lowry (2000), Huang (1994), Imbach (1967), Margulis (1968) and Nagata (1959). Three additional species, Gitanopsis pusilla K.H. Barnard, 1916, Liljeborgia japonica Nagata, 1965b and Latigammaropsis atlantica (Stebbing, 1888), whilst previously reported from the neighbouring waters, comprise new records for the South China Sea.
["South China Sea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and Coastal Ecosystems"]

Three new species of Oreophryne (Anura, Microhylidae) from Papua New Guinea
I describe three new species of the diverse microhylid frog genus Oreophryne from Papua New Guinea. Two of these occur in two isolated mountain ranges along the northern coast of Papua New Guinea; the third is from Rossel Island in the very southeasternmost part of the country. All three are the first Oreophryne known from these areas to have a cartilaginous connection between the procoracoid and scapula, a feature usually seen in species far to the west or from the central cordillera of New Guinea. Each of the new species also differs from the many other Papuan Oreophryne in a variety of other morphological, color-pattern, and call features. Advertisement-call data for Oreophryne species from the north-coast region suggest that they represent only two of the several call types seen in regions further south, consistent with the relatively recent derivation of these northern regions as accreted island-arc systems. The distinctively different, whinnying, call type of the new species from Rossel Island occurs among other Oreophryne from southeastern Papua New Guinea but has been unreported elsewhere, raising the possibility that it may characterize a clade endemic to that region.
["Adelbert Mts."]

Eremonidiopsis aggregata, gen. n., sp. n. from Cuba, the third West Indian Dioptinae (Lepidoptera, Notodontidae)
A new genus and species of Dioptinae (Lepidoptera, Noctuoidea, Notodontidae) is described from Cuba, this being the third taxon of the subfamily known from the West Indies. Eremonidiopsis aggregata, gen. n., sp. n., appears to be closely related to Eremonidia mirifica Rawlins & Miller from Hispaniola among members of the tribe Dioptini. Eremonidiopsis aggregata is known from two localities in the middle and western portions of the northeastern Cuban mountain range, Nipe–Sagua–Baracoa. The species inhabits low elevations (300–400 m) covered by lowland rainforest and sclerophyll rainforest. The six known specimens, all males, were part of small swarms flying near the top of an unidentified tree during the day at both collecting sites. These localities are included within protected areas, the “Pico Cristal” National Park in the West and the “Alexander von Humbolt” National Park in the East.

Malagasyprinus, a new genus of the Saprininae from Madagascar with description of two new species (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Saprininae) (First contribution to the knowledge of the Histeridae of Madagascar)
Based on the results of recent phylogenetic analysis of the higher taxa of the Saprininae as well as external morphological characters, especially the presence of deep and large prosternal foveae, and the shape and position of the sensory organs of the antennal club, the species Saprinus (s.str.) caeruleatus Lewis, 1905 is excluded from the genus Saprinus and a new genus Malagasyprinus, exclusive to Madagascar, is established for it. The new genus shows mainly characters that are apomorphic for the subfamily and contains another two, highly similar allopatric species M. perrieri sp. n., and M. diana sp. n., described herein. The three species are best separated from each other by the structure of the prosternum and male terminalia, especially the shape of the aedeagus. We re-describe M. caeruleatus comb. n. and provide M. perrieri and M. diana with brief differential diagnoses. All taxon descriptions are accompanied with color habitat photographs, SEM micrographs and drawings of their male genitalia. A key to the species of Malagasyprinus is given. Sensory structures of the antenna of M. caeruleatus comb. n. are likewise depicted herein. The systematic position of the newly erected genus is discussed. A lectotype of Saprinus caeruleatus Lewis, 1905 is designated.
["Malagasyprinus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

The Nabidae (Insecta, Hemiptera, Heteroptera) of Argentina
In Argentina, five genera and 14 species are recorded in the subfamilies Prostemmatinae and Nabinae: Hoplistoscelis sordidus Reuter, Lasiomerus constrictus Champion, Metatropiphorus alvarengai Reuter, Nabis argentinus Meyer-Dür, Nabis (Tropiconabis) capsiformis Germar, Nabis faminei Stål, Nabis paranensis Harris, Nabis punctipennis Blanchard, Nabis roripes Stål, Nabis setricus Harris, Nabis tandilensis Berg, Pagasa (Pagasa) costalis Reuter, Pagasa (Lampropagasa) fuscipennis Reuter and Pagasa (Pagasa) signatipennis Reuter.
["Nabidae"]

Pachybrachis (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cryptocephalinae) of Eastern Canada.
Seventeen Pachybrachis species occurring in eastern Canada [Ontario (ON), Québec (QC), New Brunswick (NB), Nova Scotia (NS), and Prince Edward Island (PE)] are treated by the authors. Two new national records were discovered, both from southernmost Ontario: P. cephalicus Fall and P. luctuosus Suffrian. Four species were new provincial records: P. cephalicus (ON), P. luctuosus (ON, QC), P. obsoletus Suffrian (NB), P. peccans (PE). A fully illustrated key to the Pachybrachis of eastern Canada is provided and supported with extensive photographs, distribution maps, and plant associations.Three species were distributed from southern Ontario into at least one province in the Maritimes (P. nigricornis (Say), P. obsoletus Suffrian and P. peccans Suffrian). Six species were distributed along the shores of the Great Lakes (Erie, Michigan, and Ontario) and rivers (Ottawa, Saguenay and St. Lawrence), but unknown from central and northern ON and QC (P. bivittatus (Say), P. hepaticus hepaticus (F. E. Melsheimer), P. othonus othonus (Say), P. pectoralis (F. E. Melsheimer), P. spumarius Suffrian and P. trinotatus (F. E. Melsheimer)). Seven species were rare, five being found exclusively from southern ON (P. calcaratus Fall, P. cephalicus, P. luridus (Fabricius), P. subfasciatus (J. E. LeConte) and P. tridens (F. E. Melsheimer)), with two having, in addition, a disjunct population in QC (P. atomarius (F. E. Melsheimer) and P. luctuosus). One species was found to be the northern most extension of an eastern United States (US) distribution into the eastern townships of QC (P. m-nigrum (F. E. Melsheimer)). There were no Pachybrachis that could be considered arctic, subarctic, or boreal species; no specimens were found from Labrador and Newfoundland, and all species had southern affinities. Pachybrachis atomarius, P. calcaratus, P. luridus, P. subfaciatus, and P. tridens, not seen over the last 30–70 years, may be extirpated from eastern Canada.

Subsocial Neotropical Doryphorini (Chrysomelidae, Chrysomelinae): new observations on behavior, host plants and systematics
A summary of literature, documented observations and field studies finds evidence that mothers actively defend offspring in at least eight species and three genera of Neotropical Chrysomelinae associated with two host plant families. Reports on three Doryphora species reveal that all are oviparous and feed on vines in the Apocyanaceae. Mothers in the two subsocial species defend eggs and larvae by straddling, blocking access at the petiole and greeting potential predators with leaf-shaking and jerky advances. A less aggressive form of maternal care is found in two Platyphora and four Proseicela species associated with Solanaceae, shrubs and small trees. For these and other morphologically similar taxa associated with Solanaceae, genetic distances support morphology-based taxonomy at the species level, reveal one new species, but raise questions regarding boundaries separating genera. We urge continued study of these magnificent insects, their enemies and their defenses, both behavioral and chemical, especially in forests along the eastern versant of the Central and South American cordillera.
["Maternal care"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Notes on the ecology of rolled-leaf hispines (Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae) at La Gamba (Costa Rica)
A total of 301 adult hispine beetles of the genera Cephaloleia and Chelobasis were found in rolled leaves of plants of 17 species of Zingiberales (families Costaceae, Heliconiaceae, Maranthaceae, Musaceae, and Zingiberaceae) during a field study at La Gamba, Golfito region, Costa Rica. Of these beetles, Cephaloleia belti was recorded from 12 potential host plant species, C. distincta from 7, C. dilaticollis from 5, C., Chelobasis bicolor, C. championi, and C. histrionica from 3, Chelobasis perplexa and C. instabilis from 2, whereas C. trivittata from only one. Of the plant species, Heliconia latispatha had 7 beetle species in its leaf rolls, Calathea lutea had 5, H. imbricata and H. rostrata had 4, H. stricta and Musa paradisiaca had 3, H. wagneriana had 2, while on H. vaginalis, H. danielsiana, H. densiflora, H. longiflora, Calathea crotalifera, C. platystachya, Goeppertia lasiophylla, Alpinia purpurata, Costus pulverulentus and Costus barbatus, H. densiflora, H. vaginalis, and H. danielsana only hispines of one species were found.Cephaloleia belti occurred together with beetles of six other hispine species, whereas Cephaloleia trivittata never shared a leaf roll with another hispine species. The remaining beetle species aggregated with one to four other hispines. Adults of C. belti and C. championi were frequently seen, occasionally also with C. dilaticollis, C. histrionica, and Chelobasis perplexa, to co-occur with the carabid Calophaena ligata in the same leaf roll without any sign of interspecific aggression.A comparison of host choices and the phylogeny of the hispines and of their host plants revealed no signs that beetles used species level phylogenetic relationships within the Zingiberales to food plants. Obviously, within this plant order, rolled-leaf hispines choose their plant hosts in a nearly opportunistic manner. Seemingly, they use differences among plants at higher taxonomic levels but within the Zingiberales, the availability of young – rolled – leaves might be the actual decisive factor.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Systematics of the parasitic wasp genus Oxyscelio Kieffer (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae s.l.), part II: the Australian and southwest Pacific fauna
The Australasian and southwest Pacific species of Oxyscelio (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae s.l.) are revised. A total of 80 species are recognized as valid, 13 of which are redescribed: O. atricoxa (Dodd), O. concoloripes (Dodd), O. flavipes (Kieffer), O. grandis (Dodd), O. hyalinipennis (Dodd), O. magniclava (Dodd), O. mirellus (Dodd), O. montanus (Dodd), O. nigriclava (Dodd), O. nigricoxa (Dodd), O. rugulosus (Dodd), O. shakespearei (Girault), and O. solitarius (Dodd). Oxyscelio glabriscutellum (Dodd) syn. n. is placed as a subjective junior synonym of O. rugulosus. Sixty-seven new species are described, many representing new distributional records for the genus - O. aciculae Burks, sp. n., O. anfractus Burks, sp. n., O. bellariorum Burks, sp. n., O. bicoloripedis Burks, sp. n., O. brevitas Burks, sp. n., O. catenae Burks, sp. n., O. caudarum Burks, sp. n., O. circulorum Burks, sp. n., O. clivi Burks, sp. n., O. clupei Burks, sp. n., O. conjuncti Burks, sp. n., O. contusionis Burks, sp. n., O. corrugationis Burks, sp. n., O. croci Burks, sp. n., O.cuspidis Burks, sp. n., O. densitatis Burks, sp. n., O. dissimulationis Burks, sp. n., O. divisionis Burks, sp. n., O.exiguitatis Burks, sp. n., O. fluctuum Burks, sp. n., O. foliorum Burks, sp. n., O. funis Burks, sp. n., O.gressus Burks, sp. n., O. hamorum Burks, sp. n., O. incisurae Burks, sp. n., O. lenitatis Burks, sp. n., O.leviventris Burks, sp. n., O. limbi Burks, sp. n., O. liminis Burks, sp. n., O. linguae Burks, sp. n., O. lintris Burks, sp. n., O. livens Burks, sp. n., O. mystacis Burks, sp. n., O. nasi Burks, sp. n., O.nitoris Burks, sp. n., O. obliquiatis Burks, sp. n., O. oblongiclypei Burks, sp. n., O. obturationis Burks, sp. n., O. oculi Burks, sp. n., O. palati Burks, sp. n., O. pectinis Burks, sp. n., O. pollicis Burks, sp. n., O. proceritatis Burks, sp. n., O. productionis Burks, sp. n., O. radii Burks, sp. n., O. rami Burks, sp. n., O. rupturae Burks, sp. n., O. sarcinae Burks, sp. n., O. scismatis Burks, sp. n., O. sciuri Burks, sp. n., O. scutorum Burks, sp. n., O.sepisessor Burks, sp. n., O. sinuationis Burks, sp. n., O. sordes Burks, sp. n., O. spatula Burks, sp. n., O.stipulae Burks, sp. n., O. stringerae Burks, sp. n., O. tenuitatis Burks, sp. n., O. truncationis Burks, sp.n., O. tubi Burks, sp. n., O. umbonis Burks, sp. n., O. uncinorum Burks, sp. n., O. valdecatenae Burks, sp.n., O. velamenti Burks, sp. n., O. verrucae Burks, sp. n., O. viator Burks, sp. n., and O. wa Burks, sp. n. The fauna is divided into nine diagnostic species groups, with five species unplaced to group.

Systematics of a widely distributed western North American springsnail, Pyrgulopsis micrococcus (Caenogastropoda, Hydrobiidae), with descriptions of three new congeners
We describe three new species of springsnails (genus Pyrgulopsis) from the Amargosa River basin, California and Nevada (P. licina sp. n., P. perforata sp. n., P. sanchezi sp. n.), each of which was previously considered to be part of P. micrococcus. We also restrict P. micrococcus to its type locality area (Oasis Valley) and redefine a regional congener, P. turbatrix, to include populations from the central Death Valley region and San Bernardino Mountains that had been previously identified as P. micrococcus. The five species treated herein form genetically distinct lineages that differ from each other by 4.2–12.6% for mtCOI and 5.2–13.6% for mtNDI (based on previously published and newly obtained data), and are diagnosable by shell and/or penial characters. The new molecular data presented herein confirm sympatry of P. licina and P. sanchezi in Ash Meadows (consistent with morphological evidence) and delineate an additional lineage of P. micrococcus (in the broad sense) that we do not treat taxonomically owing to the paucity of morphological material. Conservation measures are needed to ensure the long term persistence of populations of P. micrococcus and a genetically differentiated lineage of P. sanchezi which live in disturbed habitats on private lands.
["Pyrgulopsis"]

Description of Longidorus cholevae sp. n. (Nematoda, Dorylaimida) from a riparian habitat in the Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
A description is provided of Longidorus cholevae sp. n., a bisexual species associated with wild cherry (Prunus avium L.) from the Rila Mountains, Bulgaria. The position of L. cholevae sp. n. among other species of the genus was elucidated by using morphological and molecular data. Phylogenetic analyses were performed of D2-D3 expansion domains of the 28S rRNA and the partial ITS1 containing regions by Neighbor-Joining, Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods. The species is characterised by a female body length of 6.1–8.1 mm; long odontostyle (106–129 µm); lip region wide (21.5–24 µm) rounded and continuous with the body profile; amphidial pouches short and wide, funnel-shaped; a posteriorly situated guide ring (30-37 µm); normal arrangement of pharyngeal glands, and short bluntly rounded to hemispherical tail. Four juvenile stages indentified, first stage with elongate conoid tail. Males with 2–4 adanal pairs and a row of 11–13 single ventromedian supplements, spicules 96-120 µm long. Based both on morphological and molecular data the new species appearred to be the most similar with a group of species distributed in Europe sharing common charcters such as amphidial fovea, lip region and tail shapes, andsimilar odontostyle and body length: L. poessneckensis, L. caespiticola, L. macrososma, L. helveticus, L. carniolensis and L. pius. An updated list of Longidorus species and a partial polytomous keys to the Longidorus species with long odontostyle (codeA45) and short tail (codeH1) are provided.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A revision of the Larainae (Coleoptera, Elmidae) of Venezuela, with description of nine new species
The species of the riffle beetle subfamily Larainae occurring in Venezuela are revised. Examination of 756 specimens yielded 22 species in nine genera occurring throughout the country. Seven species are newly recorded from the country: Phanoceroides sp. 1, Phanocerus clavicornis Sharp, 1882, Phanocerus congener Grouvelle, 1898, Pharceonus volcanus Spangler and Santiago-Fragoso, 1992, Disersus dasycolus, Spangler and Santiago-Fragoso, 1992, Disersus chibcha Spangler and Santiago, 1987, and Disersus inca Spangler and Santiago-Fragoso, 1992. Nine species are found to be new to science, which are here described: Hexanchorus dentitibialis sp. n., H. falconensis sp. n., H. flintorum sp. n., H. homaeotarsoides sp. n., H. inflatus sp. n., Phanocerus rufus sp. n., Pharceonus grandis sp. n., Pharceonus ariasi sp. n., Potamophilops bostrychophallus sp. n. Additionally, a key to species, distribution maps, and photographs and genitalia illustrations are provided for all species.

A redescripton of Lyrosoma pallidum (Eschscholtz) and distributional range extension of Lyrosoma Mannerheim (Coleoptera, Agyrtidae)
A redescription with illustrations of the species Lyrosoma pallidum and a key to the Korean species of the family Agyrtidae are provided. New distributional data, including a range extension, of the two Lyrosoma Mannerheim species are presented. Lyrosoma pallidum (Eschscholtz) is recorded for the first time in Korea.
["Lyrosoma pallidum"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Hydraena (Hydraenopsis) ateneo, new species (Coleoptera, Hydraenidae) and other aquatic Polyphaga from a small habitat patch in a highly urbanized landscape of Metro Manila, Philippines
Seven species of Hydraenidae, Hydrophilidae and Elmidae are recorded from temporary freshwater habitats at the Ateneo de Manila University Campus in the metropolitan area of Manila, Philippines. They were identified as Enochrus (Lumetus) fragiloides d’Orchymont, Helochares (Hydrobaticus) lepidus d’Orchymont, Helochares (Helochares) pallens (MacLeay), Hydraena (Hydraenopsis) scabra d’Orchymont, Hydraena (Hydraenopsis) palawanensis Freitag & Jäch (new record for Luzon Island), Stenelmis sp. A further hydraenid species was unknown to science and is newly described: Hydraena (Hydraenopsis) ateneo Freitag, sp. n. Aedeagus, gonocoxite, spermatheca, and female tergite X are illustrated by computer-based line drawings. Habitus images of all three Hydraena Kugelann species recorded and a checklist of the Philippine Hydraena are provided. The presence of these seven species in the Ateneo campus is briefly discussed in regard to the area’s history. Measures to maintain and extend semi-natural islands of biodiversity in urban areas are suggested.
["Water Beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Hoplatessara luxuriosa (Silvestri, 1895) (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae) is native to Australia, not New Guinea
Hoplatessara luxuriosa (Silvestri, 1895) is partly redescribed and illustrated. Its native range is shown to be in the cool-climate uplands of New South Wales, Australia. H. luxuriosa was originally labelled as collected by L.M. D’Albertis at Sorong in New Guinea. D’Albertis collected on Sorong Island in 1872 and spent the following year in Sydney, New South Wales, before returning to Europe with his New Guinea specimens. It is possible that D’Albertis himself collected H. luxuriosa in 1873, and that the mislabelling occurred later.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Further revision of the genus Megalopsalis (Opiliones, Neopilionidae), with the description of seven new species
The Australian harvestmen genus Megalopsalis (Neopilionidae: Enantiobuninae) is recognised as a senior synonym of the genera Spinicrus and Hypomegalopsalis, and seven new species are described in Megalopsalis: M. suffugiens, M. walpolensis, M. caeruleomontium, M. atrocidiana, M. coronata, M. puerilis and M. sublucens. A morphological phylogenetic analysis of the Enantiobuninae is also conducted including the new species. Monophyly of Neopilionidae and Enantiobuninae including ‘Monoscutidae’ is corroborated, with the Australasian taxa as a possible sister clade to the South American Thrasychirus.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Revolving SEM images visualising 3D taxonomic characters: application to six species of the millipede genus Ommatoiulus Latzel, 1884, with description of seven new species and an interactive key to the Tunisian members of the genus (Diplopoda, Julida, Julidae)
A novel illustration technique based on scanning electron microscopy is used for the first time to enhance taxonomic descriptions. The male genitalia (gonopods) of six species of millipedes are used for construction of interactive imaging models. Each model is a compilation of a number of SEM images taken consecutively while rotating the SEM stage 360°, which allows the structure in question to be seen from all angles of view in one plane. Seven new species of the genus Ommatoiulus collected in Tunisia are described: O.chambiensis, O. crassinigripes, O. kefi, O. khroumiriensis, O. xerophilus, O. xenos, and O. zaghouani spp. n. Size differences between syntopic adult males of O. chambiensis and O. xerophilus spp. n. from Châambi Mountain are illustrated using scatter diagrams. A similar diagram is used to illustrate size differences in O. crassinigripes, O. khroumiriensis spp. n. and O. punicus (Brölemann, 1894). In addition to morphological differences, the latter three species display allopatric distribution and different habitat preferences. A dichotomous interactive key with a high visual impact and an intuitive user interface is presented to serve identification of the 12 Ommatoiulus species so far known from Tunisia. Updates on the North African Ommatoiulus fauna in general are presented.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Review of Canadian species of the genus Dinaraea Thomson, with descriptions of six new species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae, Athetini)
Twelve species of the genus Dinaraea Thomson are recognized in the Nearctic region, ten of which occur in Canada, all east of the Rocky Mountains. Six species are herein described as new to science: D. bicornis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n.; D. curtipenis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n.; D. longipenis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n.; D. quadricornis Klimaszewski & Webster, sp. n.; D. worki Klimaszewski & Jacobs, sp. n.; and D. piceana Klimaszewski & Jacobs, sp. n. Four formerly described species are confirmed in Canada: D. angustula (Thomson), D. backusensis Klimaszewski & Brunke, D. borealis Lohse, and D. pacei Klimaszewki & Langor. The previously unknown male of D. borealis Lohse and female of D. backusensis are described. All species are illustrated with colour habitus images and black and white images of the median lobe of the aedeagus and spermatheca, and tergite VIII and sternite VIII of both sexes. New habitat and distribution data are presented and a key to all Nearctic species of the genus is provided.

Plutella australiana (Lepidoptera, Plutellidae), an overlooked diamondback moth revealed by DNA barcodes
The genus Plutella was thought to be represented in Australia by a single introduced species, P. xylostella (Linnaeus), the diamondback moth. Its status as a major pest of cruciferous crops, and the difficulty in developing control strategies has motivated broad-ranging studies on its biology. Prior genetic work has generally supported the conclusion that populations of this migratory species are connected by substantial gene flow. However, the present study reveals the presence of two genetically divergent lineages of this taxon in Australia. One shows close genetic and morphological similarity with the nearly cosmopolitan Plutella xylostella. The second lineage possesses a similar external morphology, but marked sequence divergence in the barcode region of the cytochrome c oxidase I gene, coupled with clear differences in genitalia. As a consequence, members of this lineage are described as a new species, P. australiana Landry & Hebert, which is broadly distributed in the eastern half of Australia.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species and a new subgenus of toothed Brachyhypopomus electric knifefishes (Gymnotiformes, Hypopomidae) from the central Amazon and considerations pertaining to the evolution of a monophasic electric organ discharge
We describe two new, closely related species of toothed Brachyhypopomus (Hypopomidae: Gymnotiformes: Teleostei) from the central Amazon basin and create a new subgenus for them. Odontohypopomus, new subgenus of Brachyhypopomus, is diagnosed by (1) small teeth present on premaxillae; (2) medialmost two branchiostegal rays thin with blades oriented more vertically than remaining three rays; (3) background color in life (and to lesser extent in preservation) distinctly yellowish with head and sides peppered with small, widely spaced, very dark brown stellate chromatophores that greatly contrast with light background coloration; (4) a dark blotch or bar of subcutaneous pigment below the eye; (5) electric organ discharge waveform of very long duration (head-positive phase approx. 2 milliseconds or longer, head-negative phase shorter or absent) and slow pulse repetition rate (3–16 Hz). The type species of the new subgenus, Brachyhypopomus (Odontohypopomus) walteri sp. n., is diagnosed by the following additional character states: (1) subcutaneous dark pigment at base of orbit particularly prominent, (2) body semi-translucent and nearly bright yellow background coloration in life, (3) a biphasic electric organ discharge (EOD) waveform of very long duration (between 3.5 and 4 milliseconds at 25° C) with head-positive first phase significantly longer than second head-negative phase in both sexes. Brachyhypopomus (Odontohypopomus) bennetti sp. n. is diagnosed by two character states in addition to those used to diagnose the subgenus Odontohypopomus: (1) a deep electric organ, visible as large semi-transparent area, occupying approximately 14–17% body depth directly posterior to the abdominal cavity in combination with a short, but deep, caudal filament, and (2) a monophasic, head-positive EOD waveform, approximately 2.1 milliseconds in duration in both sexes. These are the only described rhamphichthyoid gymnotiforms with oral teeth, and B. bennetti is the first Brachyhypopomus reported to have a monophasic (head-positive) EOD waveform. Unlike biphasic species, the waveform of its EOD is largely unaffected by tail damage from predators. Such injuries are common among specimens in our collections. This species’ preference for floating meadow habitat along the major channels of the Amazon River basin may put it at particularly high risk of predation and “tail grazing.”
["Gymnotiform"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A new genus and species of Tullbergiidae (Collembola) from the Pacific Mexican coast
The new genus Mexicaphorura, and its type species M. guerrerensis sp. n. are described from marine littoral sand. The new genus is similar to Sensilatullbergia Thibaud & Ndiaye, 2006 invery big sensilla on sensorial organ of antennal segment III, but of different shape, the kind of postantennal organ, with simple vesicles in Mexicaphorura versus composed vesicles in Sensilatullbergia and formulae of the pseudocelli.
["Tullbergiidae"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

New lucinid bivalves from shallow and deeper water of the Indian and West Pacific Oceans (Mollusca, Bivalvia, Lucinidae)
Four new species and a new genus of lucinid bivalves are described from shallow and deeper waters in the Indian and West Pacific Oceans. The new genus Scabrilucina (subfamily Lucininae) includes the little-known S. victorialis (Melvill, 1899) from the Arabian Sea and S. vitrea (Deshayes, 1844) from the Andaman Sea as well as a new species S. melvilli from the Torres Strait off northeastern Australia. Ferrocina brunei new species (Lucininae) was recovered from 60 m near oil drilling activities off Borneo; its anatomy confirmed the presence of symbiotic bacteria. Two unusual deeper water species of Leucosphaerinae are described, both species included in on-going molecular analyses; Gonimyrtea ferruginea from 400–650 m in the southwest Pacific and Myrtina reflexa from 200–825 m off Zanzibar and Madagascar.

A new species and additional records of Lobrathium Mulsant & Rey (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from China
Lobrathium fuscoguttatum sp. n. (type locality: Guangxi) is described and illustrated. The latest key to the Lobrathium species of mainland China is modified to include the new species. Additional data are provided for six previously described species.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

On Levymanus, a remarkable new spider genus from Israel, with notes on the Chediminae (Araneae, Palpimanidae)
Levymanus gershomi gen. n. et sp. n., is described from southern Israel. The eye arrangement and structure of the male palp indicate that this genus belongs to Chediminae Simon, 1893. Levymanus gen. n. differs from other chedimine genera by its unusually long and slender legs, an elongate body, a unique shape of the bipartite thoracic fovea, reduced leg scopulae, smaller spinnerets, and other characters, which are presumably apomorphic. We propose two taxonomic changes: 1) based on widely spaced lateral eyes the Western African genus Badia Roewer, 1961 is transferred from Chediminae to Palpimaninae, and 2) Fernandezina gyirongensis Hu & Li, 1987 from China, based on palpal morphology, is transferred to the Asian genus Steriphopus Simon, 1887 for a new combination Steriphopus gyirongensis (Hu & Li, 1987) comb. n.

Pengzhongiella daicongchaoi gen. et sp. n., a remarkable myrmecophile (Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Batrisitae) from the Gaoligong Mountains
A new genus and species, Pengzhongiella daicongchaoi, of the subtribe Batrisina (Batrisitae: Batrisini) is described from the Gaoligong Mountains, Yunnan, Southwest China. Adults were collected in a colony of Odontomachus monticola, and presented reduction of certain external characters and elongate appendages relating to myrmecophily. Description and illustrations of the habitus and major diagnostic features of the new taxon are provided; a brief discussion of its taxonomic placement is included. The new species also represents the first record of a Pselaphinae in association with an Odontomachus ant.

Stoneflies of the genus Neoperla (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from Wuyi Mountain National Nature Reserve, Fujian of China
The species of the genus Neoperla are reviewed from Wuyi Mountain National Nature Reserve located in the Fujian Province of southeastern China, including the description of a new species, Neoperla brevistyla sp. n. The new species is compared to similar taxa. The first records of five Neoperla species, N. henana Li, Wu & Zhang, 2011, N. similiserecta Wang & Li, 2012, N. qingyuanensis Yang & Yang, 1995, N. xuansongae Li & Li, 2013 and N. tuberculata Wu, 1938 are given for the Wuyi Mountain. A provisional key is provided for facilitating the identification of these species.
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Fossil echinoid (Echinoidea, Echinodermata) diversity of the Early Cretaceous (Hauterivian) in the Paris Basin (France)
This dataset inventories occurrence records of fossil echinoid specimens collected in the Calcaires à Spatangues Formation (CSF) that crops out in the southeast of the Paris Basin (France), and is dated from the Acanthodiscus radiatus chronozone (ca. 132 Ma, early Hauterivian, Early Cretaceous). Fossil richness and abundance of the CSF has attracted the attention of palaeontologists since the middle of the nineteenth century. This dataset compiles occurrence data (referenced by locality names and geographic coordinates with decimal numbers) of fossil echinoids both collated from the literature published over a century and a half, and completed by data from collection specimens. The dataset also gives information on taxonomy (from species to order and higher taxonomic levels), which has been checked for reliability and consistency. It compiles a total of 628 georeferenced occurrence data of 26 echinoid species represented by 22 genera, 14 families, and 9 orders.
["Echinoids"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

New species of Agathodesmus Silvestri, 1910 from Australia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Haplodesmidae)
The genus Agathodesmus Silvestri, 1910 is speciose and widespread in high-rainfall parts of eastern Australia. In addition to the type species A. steeli Silvestri, 1910 and A. johnsi Mesibov, 2009 from New South Wales and A. bucculentus (Jeekel, 1986) from Queensland, the following 18 new species are recognised: A. adelphus sp. n., A. aenigmaticus sp. n., A. agnus sp. n., A. anici sp. n., A. gayundah sp. n., A. hahnensis sp. n., A. kerensis sp. n., A. kirrama sp. n., A. millaa sp. n., A. parapholeus sp. n., A. quintanus sp. n., A. sagma sp. n., A. summus sp. n. and A. yuccabinensis sp. n. from Queensland; A. carorum sp. n. from New South Wales and Victoria; A. bonang sp. n. and A. morwellensis sp. n. from Victoria; and A. chandleri sp. n. from South Australia.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

A new species of Peltidium Philippi, 1839 (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from the Pacific coast of Mexico
During the analysis of phytal meiobenthic samples collected from a rocky-sandy beach in the state of Nayarit, in the Mexican Pacific, several specimens of harpacticoid copepods were obtained and taxonomically examined. These specimens were found to represent an undescribed species of the peltidiid genus Peltidium Philippi, 1839. The new species, P. nayarit sp. n. is described herein. It resembles P. nichollsi Geddes and P. lerneri Geddes from Bahamas but also the widespread P. speciosum Thompson & Scott and P. purpureum Philippi. The new species from the Mexican Pacific differs from its known congeners by its possession of a unique combination of characters, including a modified pectinate seta on the antennary exopod, three terminal setae on the second endopodal segment of leg 1, third exopodal segment of leg 1 with three elements, inner terminal claw twice as long as outer claw, female fifth leg with 5 exopodal setae, exopodal setae I-III stout, spinulose and seta IV being as long as seta V. This is the second species of the family known to be distributed in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and in Mexico. Pending additional data, the distribution of this species appears to be restricted to this area of the Mexican Pacific.
["Crustacean fauna"]

Taxonomic revision of the olingos (Bassaricyon), with description of a new species, the Olinguito
We present the first comprehensive taxonomic revision and review the biology of the olingos, the endemic Neotropical procyonid genus Bassaricyon, based on most specimens available in museums, and with data derived from anatomy, morphometrics, mitochondrial and nuclear DNA, field observations, and geographic range modeling. Species of Bassaricyon are primarily forest-living, arboreal, nocturnal, frugivorous, and solitary, and have one young at a time. We demonstrate that four olingo species can be recognized, including a Central American species (B. gabbii), lowland species with eastern, cis-Andean (B. alleni) and western, trans-Andean (B. medius) distributions, and a species endemic to cloud forests in the Andes. The oldest evolutionary divergence in the genus is between this last species, endemic to the Andes of Colombia and Ecuador, and all other species, which occur in lower elevation habitats. Surprisingly, this Andean endemic species, which we call the Olinguito, has never been previously described; it represents a new species in the order Carnivora and is the smallest living member of the family Procyonidae. We report on the biology of this new species based on information from museum specimens, niche modeling, and fieldwork in western Ecuador, and describe four Olinguito subspecies based on morphological distinctions across different regions of the Northern Andes.
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

First record of the twostripe goby, Valenciennea helsdingenii (Gobiidae, Gobiiformes) from the southeast coast of India
Two specimens of Valenciennea helsdingenii (Bleeker, 1858) were collected off Punnakayal coast, from Gulf of Mannar, southeast coast of India in November 2012. The morphometric and meristic characters of the recorded specimens are described and discussed. This is the first record of the species from the Indian waters that is a range extension of its known range within the Indian Ocean.
["Gobiidae"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

The dorsal chaetotaxy of Trogolaphysa (Collembola, Paronellidae), with descriptions of two new species from caves in Belize
Species diagnosis in Trogolaphysa has been based, until now, almost exclusively on number of eyes and shape of claws and mucro. Chaetotaxy, a character system important to diagnose species in other genera of scaled Entomobryoidea, has been described only for a few Trogolaphysa species. Here the complete dorsal chaetotaxy of six species of Trogolaphysa is described using the AMS and Szeptycki’s systems for head and body, respectively. A morphology-based parsimony analysis was performed to evaluate whether chaetotaxic characters overcome the influence of putatively cave adaptive convergent characters to resolve species level relationships, and to evaluate the evolution of the dorsal macrochaetae of the head. Phylogenetic analysis using only putative cave-adaptive characters support clades of unrelated taxa, but the addition of chaetotaxy overcomes the influence of convergent characters. A phylogeny based on all characters supports a trend towards reduced head macrochaetae number. Head macrochaetae are lost beginning with A3 and followed, in order, by S5, S3 and M3. In addition, a checklist of New World Trogolaphysa is provided and two new species, Trogolaphysa giordanoae sp. n. and Trogolaphysa jacobyi sp. n., are described on the basis of material collected in six caves in southern Belize.
["Puerto Rico"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine and environmental studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

The Mecyclothorax beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Moriomorphini) of Tahiti, Society Islands
The 101 species of Mecyclothorax Sharp known to inhabit Tahiti Island, French Polynesia are taxonomically revised, including 28 species that are newly described: M. claridgeiae sp. n., M. jeanyvesi sp. n., M. poria sp. n., M. aano sp. n., M. papau sp. n., M. manina sp. n., M. everardi sp. n., M. ramagei sp. n., M. pitohitiensis sp. n., M. curtisi sp. n., M. hoeahiti sp. n., M. ninamu sp. n., M. kokone sp. n., M. paahonu sp. n., M. kayballae sp. n., M. ehu sp. n., M. papuhiti sp. n., M. tuea sp. n., M. taatitore sp. n., M. konemata sp. n., M. arboricola sp. n., M. rahimata sp. n., M. oaoa sp. n., M. maninapopoti sp. n., M. hunapopoti sp. n., M. fefemata sp. n., M. maninamata sp. n., and M. niho sp. n. Mecyclothorax muriauxioides Perrault, 1984 is newly synonymized with M. muriauxi Perrault, 1978. Lectotypes are designated for: Thriscothorax altiusculus Britton, 1938; T. bryobius Britton, 1938; Mecyclothorax globosus Britton, 1948: and M. sabulicola Britton, 1948. Dichotomous identification keys augmented by dorsal habitus and male aedeagal photographs are provided to the various species-groups and all included species. The spermatophore of M. papau sp. n. is described, with the ampulla and collar found to correspond dimensionally to the length of the internal sac flagellar plate. Variation among characters of the female reproductive tract is presented for all newly described plus other representative species comprising the radiation. Taxa are assigned to species groups, modified from the classification of G.G. Perrault, based on derived character states polarized using the Australian outgroup taxon Mecyclothorax punctipennis (MacLeay). Much of the species-level diversity on this small Pacific island is partitioned allopatrically over very small distributional ranges. No species is shared between Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Iti, and nearly all species in Tahiti Nui are geographically restricted to one ridgelike massif of that volcano. Cladistically similar species are often distributed on different massifs suggesting that vicariance associated with erosional valley formation has facilitated speciation, however several instances in which sister species occupy sympatric distributions on the same ridge system demonstrate that speciation may also occur across extremely localized landscapes. Such localized differentiation is facilitated by the low vagility of these small-bodied, flightless predators whose fragmented populations can persist and diverge within spatially limited habitat patches. The intense philopatry of Tahitian Mecyclothorax spp. coupled with the highly dissected landscape has produced the geographically densest adaptive radiation on Earth. This radiation has occurred very rapidly, with species durations averaging 300,000 yr; a speciation rate similar to that observed in Hawaiian Oliarus planthoppers and Laupala crickets, and East African Rift lake cichlid fishes.

First description of the female of Sinopoda serrata (Wang, 1990) (Araneae, Sparassidae)
The female of Sinopoda serrata (Wang, 1990) is described for the first time from Tiantangzhai National Forest Park, Hubei province, China. This species has been recorded from the region of Central China. Morphological descriptions and illustrations of this species are given.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Medicinal Plant Pharmacodynamics Research"]

A review of the New World species of the parasitoid wasp Iconella (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae)
The New World species of Iconella (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Microgastrinae) are revised. Iconella andydeansi Fernández-Triana, sp. n., I. canadensis Fernández-Triana, sp. n., and I. jayjayrodriguezae Fernández-Triana, sp. n., are described as new. Iconella isolata (Muesebeck, 1955), stat. r., previously considered as a subspecies of I. etiellae (Viereck, 1911), is here elevated to species rank. All species have different, well defined geographic distributions and hosts. Taxonomic keys are presented in two formats: traditional dichotomous hardcopy versions and links to electronic interactive versions (software Lucid 3.5). Numerous illustrations, computer-generated descriptions, distributional information, host records (mostly Lepidoptera: Crambidae and Pyralidae), and DNA barcodes (where available) are presented for every species. Phylogenetic analyses of the barcoding region of COI indicate the possibility that Iconella is not monophyletic and that the New World species may not form a monophyletic group; more data is needed to resolve this issue.
["Iconella"]

Ancyronyx Erichson, 1847 (Coleoptera, Elmidae) from Mindoro, Philippines, with description of the larvae and two new species using DNA sequences for the assignment of the developmental stages
Ancyronyx buhid sp. n. and A. tamaraw sp. n. are described based on adults and larvae, matched using their cox1 or cob DNA sequence data. Additional records of A. schillhammeri Jäch, 1994 and A. minerva Freitag & Jäch, 2007 from Mindoro are listed. The previously unknown larva of A. schillhammeri is also described here, aided by cox1 data. The new species and larval stages are described in detail and illustrated by SEM and stacked microscopic images. Keys to the adult and larval Ancyronyx species of Mindoro and an up­dated checklist of Philippine Ancyronyx species are provided. The usefulness as bioindicators, the phylogenetic relationships and biogeographic aspects affecting the distribution patterns are briefly discussed.
["Ancyronyx"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of the genus Ambrostoma Motschulsky (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Chrysomelinae) from South Korea, with larval descriptions and biological notes
Ambrostoma koreana sp. n. is described from South Korea. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of adult and all larval instars are provided and differences to closely related species are discussed. Ovoviviparity is reported for the first time in the genus Ambrostoma. Notes on distribution, host plant and biology are also provided.
["Chrysomelidae"]

Aroid scarabs in the genus Peltonotus Burmeister (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Dynastinae): key to species and new distributional data
The southeast Asian scarab beetle genus Peltonotus Burmeister (Scarabaeidae, Dynastinae, Cyclocephalini) is reviewed. New country records for Peltonotus morio Burmeister (Myanmar and Vietnam), P. nasutus Arrow (southern China and Cambodia), and P. favonius Jameson and Wada (Myanmar) are reported, including a new record in the Palearctic/Sino-Japanese biogeographic region. The first female specimen of P. favonius is described. Biological associations with aroid inflorescences are reviewed, and human consumption of Peltonotus beetles is reported. A key to all species, paralectotype designations for P. nasutus, diagnoses, and distributions using dynamic mapping tools are included.
["Edible insects"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

New species and records of Parametriocnemus Goetghebuer from China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
The Chinese species of Parametriocnemus Goetghebuer are reviewed. Two species, P. fortis sp. n. and P. vittatus sp. n. are described and illustrated as males, and P. ornaticornis (Kieffer), P. scotti (Freeman) and P. brundini Sinharay & Chaudhuri are recorded from China for the first time. A key to the males of the seven Chinese Parametriocnemus species is given.
["Chirnomidae"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new Pseudophoxinus (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) species from Southwestern Anatolia, with remarks on the distribution of the genus in western Anatolia
Pseudophoxinus burduricus sp. n. is described from drainages of Salda and Burdur lakes, southwestern Turkey. It is distinguished from other Anatolian Pseudophoxinus by a combination of characters: lateral line incomplete, with 21–39 (commonly 26–37) perforated scales and 47–57+1-2 scales in lateral series; 10½–12½ scale rows between lateral line and dorsal fin origin, 3–4(5) scale rows between lateral line and the pelvic fin origin; dorsal fin commonly with 7½ branched rays; anal fin commonly with 6½ branched rays; 7–8(9) gill rakers on the first branchial arch; a faint and diffuse epidermal black stripe from eye to caudal fin base in alive and preserved individuals; mouth slightly subterminal, tip of mouth cleft on about level of lower margin of eye; snout rounded, its length greater than eye diameter. Comparison is given with all Pseudophoxinus species from western Anatolia.
["Western Anatolia"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Transboundary Water Resource Management"]

Chaetopteryx bucari sp. n., a new species from the Chaetopteryx rugulosa group from Croatia (Insecta, Trichoptera, Limnephilidae) with molecular, taxonomic and ecological notes on the group
We describe a new autumnal caddisfly species Chaetopteryx bucari sp. n. from 8 localities in the Banovina region of Croatia. We also present molecular, taxonomic and ecological notes (emergence, sex ratio and seasonal dynamics) on the new species and discuss the distribution of Chaetopteryx species in general and the C. rugulosa group in particular. Based on Bayesian phylogenetic analysis C. rugulosa schmidi was separated from the clade containing the other subspecies of C. rugulosa. Thus the subspecies C. r. schmidi is here raised to species level, C. schmidi, as it was described originally. We further present distribution data on rare species in the genus Chaetopteryx in Croatia.
["Chaetopteryx"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Secondary structure models of 18S and 28S rRNAs of the true bugs based on complete rDNA sequences of Eurydema maracandica Oshanin, 1871 (Heteroptera, Pentatomidae)
The sequences of 18S and 28S rDNAs have been used as molecular markers to resolve phylogenetic relationships of Heteroptera for two decades. The complete sequences of 18S rDNAs have been used in many studies, while in most studies only partial sequences of 28S rDNAs have been used due to technical difficulties of amplifying the complete lengths. In this study, we amplified the complete 18S and 28S rDNA sequences of Eurydema maracandica Oshanin, 1871, and reconstructed the secondary structure models of the corresponding rRNAs. In addition, and more importantly, all of the length variable regions of 18S rRNA were compared among 37 families of Heteroptera based on 140 sequences, and the D3 region of 28S rRNA was compared among 51 families based on 84 sequences. It was found that 8 length variable regions could potentially serve as molecular synapomorphies for some monophyletic groups. Therefore discoveries of more molecular synapomorphies for specific clades can be anticipated from amplification of complete 18S and 28S rDNAs of more representatives of Heteroptera.
["rRNA"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research"]

Monitoring of aphid flight activities in seed potato crops in Serbia
Aphid flight activities in seed potato fields have been studied by the yellow water traps. It is a good method for monitoring aphids as vectors of viruses, but this study also showed it is a suitable method for insect-diversity research. During the four-year studies, over 11.500 specimens were collected and a total of 107 different taxa of aphids were identified. The most abundant species were polyphagous species, such as: Acyrthosiphon pisum (Haris), Aphis fabae Scopoli, Aphis gossypii Glover and Brachycaudus helichrysi (Kaltenbach). The results of the studies show that diversity of aphids in different regions of Serbia is similar regardless of the altitude and the diversity of terrain. At most sites it ranged from 2 to 3. The highest value was recorded in Begeč, locality in northern part of Serbia, in year 2008, and it was 2.92. The maximum values of the Shannon-Weaver diversity index at all sites were recorded in the first weeks of the monitoring of aphid flight activities. Morisita-Horn similarity index shows no significant differences between sites regardless of altitudes. The sites are grouped by year, not by similarity of relief. In spite of these results, the Chi-square analysis showed highly significant difference in vector frequencies among seasons and sites with more pronounced differences for PVY. As a consequence of differences in vector frequencies, the vector pressure index in some regions was different also. The number of vectors and vector pressure index vary depending on the altitude of localities. At localities at altitudes under 1000 m, they were high. The highest index was at Kotraža, locality in central part of Serbia, in 2007, when PVY index exceeded the value of 180, while for PLRV it was 60. At high altitudes on mountain Golija, above 1100 m, the number of aphids was low, as well as the vector pressure index which indicates that these regions are suitable for producing virus-free seed potato.
["Aphids"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Plant Virus Research Studies"]

Two new species of Vertomannus Distant, 1903 (Heteroptera, Rhyparochromidae, Ozophorini), with proposal of a new subgenus
Two new Vertomannus species, V. flavus sp. n. (south Vietnam) and V. borneensis sp. n. (Borneo) are described. Vertomannus (Elongatomannus), subgen. n. (type species: V. flavus) is proposed.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

The unusual Afrotropical and Oriental leafhopper subfamily Signoretiinae (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae): taxonomic notes, new distributional records, and description of two new Signoretia species
The leafhopper subfamily Signoretiinae is redescribed and includes two tribes: Signoretiini Baker and Phlogisini Linnavuori. Redescriptions of included tribes, diagnoses and a taxonomic key to genera are provided. New records for genera of Signoretiinae are as follows: Phlogis in Central African Republic, Malaysia and Thailand; Preta in Thailand; and Signoretia in the Republic of the Congo, Zambia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan (China). Signoretia pacifica is newly recorded from Cameroon. In addition, detailed illustrations of the male genitalia of the previously described species, Chouious tianzeus, Preta gratiosa, and Signoretia yangli are provided; the male genitalia of Signoretia malaya are described for the first time; and two new species of Signoretia are described, S. delicata sp. n. from the Philippines and S. kintendela sp. n. from the Republic of the Congo.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Preliminary study of wing interference patterns (WIPs) in some species of soft scale (Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha, Coccoidea, Coccidae)
The fore wings of scale insect males possess reduced venation compared with other insects and the homologies of remaining veins are controversial. The hind wings are reduced to hamulohalterae. When adult males are prepared using the standard methods adopted to females and nymphs, i.e. using KOH to clear the specimens, the wings become damaged or deformed, an so these structures are not usually described or illustrated in publications. The present study used dry males belonging to seven species of the family Coccidae to check the presence of stable, structural colour patterns of the wings. The visibility of the wing interference patterns (WIP), discovered in Hymenoptera and Diptera species, is affected by the way the insects display their wings against various backgrounds with different light properties. This frequently occurring taxonomically specific pattern is caused by uneven membrane thickness and hair placement, and also is stabilized and reinforced by microstructures of the wing, such as membrane corrugations and the shape of cells. The semitransparent scale insect’s fore wings possess WIPs and they are taxonomically specific. It is very possible that WIPs will be an additional and helpful trait for the identification of species, which in case of males specimens is quite difficult, because recent coccidology is based almost entirely on the morphology of adult females.
["Scale insects"]

Trigonocranus emmeae Fieber, 1876 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Cixiidae) – a new species for Poland
A single macropterous female of Trigonocranus emmeae Fieber, 1876 has been found during the faunistic studies in semi-natural plant communities of Oświęcim city in southern Poland. It is the first record of this species in Poland. Trigonocranus emmeae is rarely collected within the wide range of its distribution, mostly due to its hidden life mode.

Taxonomic changes in some predominantly Palaearctic distributed genera of Drymini (Heteroptera, Rhyparochromidae)
The history of the taxonomic research of Rhyparochromidae and especially Drymini is briefly reviewed. Two new species level synonyms are proposed: Taphropeltus javanus Bergroth, 1916, syn. n. = T. australis Bergroth, 1916, syn. n. = Brentiscerus putoni (Buchanan White, 1878). A monotypic new genus, Malipatilius gen. n. (type species: Scolopostethus forticornis Gross, 1965 from Australia) is established.
["Rhyparochromidae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Redescription of Urartucoris ermolenkoi (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Coreidae) and a revised key to the genera of Pseudophloeini of the Western Palaearctic Region
Urartucoris ermolenkoi P. V. Putshkov, 1979 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Coreidae: Pseudophloeinae) is recorded from Turkey for the first time. Redescriptions of the genus and species are provided, the male of U. ermolenkoi being described for the first time, and intraspecific variability of the species is discussed. Adults of U. ermolenkoi were collected from mid April to end of July and in mid September by means of pitfall traps. First data on the habitat of the species are provided: it is epigeic, inhabiting sparse forests and shrublands at higher elevations (ca. 1400–1600 m a.s.l.) in arid regions of central Anatolia. A revised key to the genera of the West Palaearctic Pseudophloeini is provided. Translations of the original descriptions from Russian are given in Appendix.

True bugs (Hemiptera, Heteroptera) as psyllid predators (Hemiptera, Psylloidea)
Data on natural enemies of psyllids are rare and can usually be found in papers about economically significant species. During an investigation of psyllid fauna in Serbia, natural enemies were investigated, too. True bugs were the most numerous among them. From 28 psyllid species, 21 species of true bugs from families Anthocoridae and Miridae were reared. Seven species of Anthocoridae were identified: Anthocoris amplicollis (Horváth, 1839), A. confusus Reuter, 1884, A. nemoralis (Fabricius, 1794), A. nemorum (Linnaeus, 1761), Orius majusculus Reuter, 1884, O. minutus (Linnaeus, 1758) and O. niger Wolff, 1811. The following 14 species of Miridae were identified: Atractotomus mali Meyer-Dür, 1843, Campylomma verbasci (Meyer-Dür, 1843), Deraeocoris flavilinea (A. Costa, 1862), D. ruber (Linnaeus, 1758), D. lutescens (Schilling, 1836), Heterocordylus genistae (Scopoli, 1763), Hypseloecus visci (Puton, 1888), Malacocoris chlorizans Panzer, 1794, Miris striatus (Linnaeus, 1758), Orthotylus marginalis Reuter, 1884, Psallus assimilis Stichel, 1956, Ps. quercus Kirschbaum, 1856, Ps. flavellus Stichel, 1933 and Pseudoloxops coccinea (Meyer-Dür, 1843). The aim of the research was to provide list of true bugs recorded as predators of psyllids in order to preserve their diversity and significance, especially on cultivated plants.
["Psylloidea"]

The Auchenorrhyncha fauna of peat bogs in the Austrian part of the Bohemian Forest (Insecta, Hemiptera)
The first overview on the Auchenorrhyncha fauna of peat bogs of the Austrian Bohemian Forest is presented. Seven oligotrophic peat bog sites were studied in 2011 by suction sampler (“G-Vac”) and 93 Auchenorrhyncha species (with 7465 adult specimens) were recorded. Eleven species (about 18% of the individuals) are tyrphobiontic or tyrphophilous. The relative species abundance plot is not very steep; the six most abundant species represent 50% of the individuals. The most common species is Conomelus anceps (17% of the individuals). Compared to the whole Austrian Auchenorrhyncha fauna, the fauna of peat bogs comprises distinctly more univoltine species and more species hibernating in nymphal stage. Densities of adult Auchenorrhyncha in peat bogs are low in spring (about 10–60 individuals per m²) and high in July, with up to 180 (±50) individuals per m². Disturbed peat bogs have higher species numbers and higher Auchenorrhyncha densities in total, but lower numbers and densities in peat bog specialists.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New Aradidae from Ecuador (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Aradidae)
As an addition to the presently poorly known aradid fauna of Ecuador, 3 new genera and 4 new species are described: Osellaptera setifera gen. n., sp. n.; Kormilevia ecuadoriana sp. n. both belonging to Mezirinae; and Carventinae Cotopaxicoris cruciatus gen. n., sp. n. and Onorecoris piceus gen. n., sp. n. An updated key is provided for all species of the Neotropical genus Kormilevia Usinger & Matsuda, 1959.

New distributional and bioacoustic data about Cicadivetta goumenissa from Peloponnese, Greece (Hemiptera, Cicadidae)
Cicadivetta goumenissa, a small singing cicada described recently by Gogala, Drosopoulos and Trilar (2012), has been previously found only around the village of Goumenissa in northern Peloponnese. We visited this area again in June 2012 and tried to determine the distribution range of this species. We found C. goumenissa in some further localities, but all within a very small area of about 15 by 25 km. We also made more than one hour of new song recordings and extended our knowledge of the song repertoire of this species.
["Plant and animal studies", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Comparative morphology of immature stages of four species of Chinavia (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae), with a key to the species of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Chinavia Orian (1965) is one of the most diverse genera of Pentatomidae, distributed in the Afrotropical, Neotropical and Nearctic Regions. Thirty-two species are recorded for Brazil, some of thempotential economic impact because they are found on crops and referred to as pests. The morphology of the five nymphal instars of C. armigera (Stål, 1859), C. aseada (Rolston, 1983), C. brasicola (Rolston, 1983) and C. runaspis (Dallas, 1851) are described here. Through a comparative study, identification keys were developed to allow an early identification of the 12 Chinavia species of Rio Grande do Sul.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

First record of Graphosoma inexpectatum (Heteroptera, Pentatomidae, Podopinae) from Turkey with description of the female
Graphosoma inexpectatum Carapezza & Jindra, 2008 is described from Syria, the southern neighbor of Turkey, and is known only from the type locality. The first observation of the species in Turkey dates back to 1995 with two females obtained from the provinces of Gaziantep (Şehitkamil–Aktoprak) and Adana (Pozantı–Bürücek Plateau). These two localities are situated inside the part of the Mediterranean region along the Syrian border. Females of the species, whose original description was based on males, are described here for the first time. A map showing the collecting localities and photographs of the female specimens are given.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

The genus Cahara Ghauri, 1978 of China (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomidae, Halyini) with descriptions of two new species
Cahara Ghauri from China with three species is reviewed here. Two of them, C. incisura sp. n. and C. nodula sp. n. are described here. Key to the three Chinese species, habitus photographs and illustrations of genitalia are also provided. All examined materials including the types of three species mentioned are deposited in the Institute of Entomology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (NKUM).

Two new species of the bamboo-feeding leafhopper genus Abrus Dai & Zhang (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae) from China
Two new species of the bamboo-feeding genus Abrus Dai & Zhang, 2002, A. xishuiensis sp. n. and A. langshanensis sp. n., are described and illustrated from Guizhou and Hunan, South China. A checklist and a key to 13 known species are given.
["Bamboo leafhopper"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Echinophyllia tarae sp. n. (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Scleractinia), a new reef coral species from the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia
A new shallow water scleractinian coral species, Echinophyllia tarae sp. n., is described from the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia. It is characterized by an encrusting corallum, a few large and highly variable corallites with protruding walls, and distinctive costosepta. This coral was observed in muddy environments where several colonies showed partial mortality and re-growth. The new species has morphological affinities with both E. echinata and with Echinomorpha nishihirai, from which it can be distinguished on the basis of the diameter and the protrusion of the largest corallite, the thickness of the septa, and the development of the size of the crown of paliform lobes.
["Lobophylliidae"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Cassava research and cyanide"]

A new species of Scelidopetalon Delkeskamp (Coleoptera, Erotylidae) from China with a key to world species of the genus
A new species Scelidopetalon biwenxuani sp. n. is described from China, representing the first occurrence of the genus in Hainan province. A key to the world species of this genus is provided.

The larva of Drusus vinconi Sipahiler, 1992 (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae, Drusinae)
This paper describes the previously unknown larva of Drusus vinconi Sipahiler, 1992. Information on the morphology of the 5th larval instar is given, and the most important diagnostic features are illustrated. In the context of existing identification keys the larva of D. vinconi keys together with D. annulatus (Stephens, 1837), D. biguttatus (Pictet, 1834), D. ingridae Sipahiler, 1993, Hadimina torosensis Sipahiler, 2002 and Leptodrusus budtzi (Ulmer, 1913). These species differ in the contours of the pronotum in lateral view, the presence/absence of the pronotal transverse groove, the shape of the median notch of the pronotum (in anterior view), pronotal sculpturing, presence/absence of the lateral carina of the head capsule, the number of proximo-dorsal setae on the mid-and hind femora, where the lateral fringe starts on the abdomen, and in geographic distribution. With respect to zoogeography, Drusus vinconi is a (micro-)endemic of the Western Pyrenees. The species prefers stony substratum in springs and springbrooks of the montane and subalpine region (Graf et al. 2008; Sipahiler 1992, 1993). As a grazer, the larvae of D. vinconi feed on biofilm and epilithic algae.
["Drusus vinconi"]

Anagnorisma chamrani sp. n. (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) from Iran
A new Anagnorisma species, A. chamrani sp. n., is described from Binaloud Mountains of Khorasan-e-Razavi province in north-eastern Iran, and compared with its sister species, A. eucratides (Boursin, 1960). The adults, and male and female genitalia of both species are illustrated in 11 figures. The genus Anagnorisma is recorded for the first time for the fauna of Iran.
["Anagnorisma"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

The genus Alterosa Blahnik 2005 (Trichoptera, Philopotamidae, Philopotaminae) in northeastern Brazil, including the description of three new species and an identification key for the genus
Alterosa Blahnik 2005 contains 35 described species distributed in southern and southeastern Brazil. Three new species of Alterosa from northeastern Brazil are described and illustrated, Alterosa amadoi sp. n., A. castroalvesi sp. n. and A. caymmii sp. n., the first records of the genus from northeastern Brazil. An identification key for all known species of the genus is also presented.

New species of Brachystomellidae and characterization of Micronella porcus (Denis, 1933) from Brazil
Three new species of Brachystomellidae from high altitude fields of southeast Brazil are described and illustrated and additions made to the description of Micronella porcus (Denis, 1933). The new species are Neorganella rotundatae sp. n., the second for the genus, Micronella itacaman sp. n. and M. longisensilla sp. n. Diagnosis of the genera have been extended. An identification key to the genus Micronella Arlé, 1959 is provided.
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Where’s Waldo? A new commensal species, Waldo arthuri (Mollusca, Bivalvia, Galeommatidae), from the Northeastern Pacific Ocean
A galeommatid bivalve mollusk, representing a new species, is described from off the coasts of California and Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The new bivalve has a commensal relationship with the heart urchin, Brisaster latifrons. It has been observed crawling between the oral spines of this urchin, frequently near the peristome. The bivalve has been recorded from 80 (Vancouver Island) to 444 (southern California) meters depth, in muddy sediments.In common with other galeommatoideans, the new species broods its young; however it differs from the large majority of commensal members in lacking planktotrophic larval development.Waldo arthuri, new species, has multiple morphological, ecological and developmental similarities to other members of the genus Waldo Nicol, 1966, from the southern Atlantic and Antarctic Oceans. This is most pronounced for the Argentine species, Waldo paucitentaculatus Zelaya & Ituarte, 2013, W. arthuri’s sister species in nuclear and mitochondrial gene trees. Despite this close relationship, W. arthuri is phylogentically distinct and possesses several hinge, shell sculpture, foot, and mantle tentacle characteristics that merit its description as new.
["Commensal relationships"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

A tropical Atlantic species of Melibe Rang, 1829 (Mollusca, Nudibranchia, Tethyiidae)
A new species of Melibe is described based on two specimens collected in Florida. This new species is well differentiated morphologically and genetically from other species of Melibe studied to date. The four residue deletions in the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 protein found in all previously sequenced tropical species of Melibe sequenced (and Melibe rosea) are also present in this new species. These deletions do not appear to affect important structural components of this protein but might have fitness implications. This paper provides the first confirmed record of Melibe in the tropical western Atlantic Ocean.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Description of Caurinus tlagu, new species, from Prince of Wales Island, Alaska (Mecoptera, Boreidae, Caurininae)
A new species of the cryptic, minute, wingless, and enigmatic taxon Caurinus, and the second for the subfamily Caurininae, is described from Prince of Wales Island in the Alexander Archipelago, Alaska. It is distinguished from its only congener, Caurinus dectes Russell, 1979b, which occurs 1,059 km southeast in Oregon and Washington, based on external morphology and sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase II. These two species are probably evolutionary relicts –the only known members of a clade dating to the Late Jurassic or older.
["Caurinus"]

Neogosseidae (Gastrotricha, Chaetonotida) from the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Among the mostly benthic gastrotrichs, the Neogosseidae (Gastrotricha, Chaetonotida) are particularly interesting from an evolutionary point of view in virtue of their planktonic lifestyle; yet, they are poorly known and uncertainties concerning morphological traits hamper accurate in-group systematics. During a recent survey of meiofauna in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa, two species of Neogosseidae were found in a freshwater pond near Charter’s Creek on the Western Shores of Lake St Lucia. Based on morphological traits, one species has been identified as Neogossea acanthocolla, originally described from Brazil, while the other, affiliated to the genus Kijanebalola, is proposed as new to science. Using a combination of differential interference contrast and scanning electron microscopy, fine anatomical details were observed and are here discussed in a larger taxonomic framework, especially regarding K. devestiva sp. n. Results have also provided reasons for a revision of the diagnostic traits of Kijanebalola, Neogossea and the whole Family Neogosseidae. Besides expanding awareness about the biodiversity hosted by South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, our study will be beneficial to future phylogenetic studies of the Gastrotricha based on morphology, by allowing the selection and/or a more precise character coding of traits of phylogenetic relevance.
["Gastrotricha"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Pareiorhina hyptiorhachis, a new catfish species from Rio Paraíba do Sul basin, southeastern Brazil (Siluriformes, Loricariidae)
Pareiorhina hyptiorhachis is described from Ribeirão Fernandes and Rio Pomba, Rio Paraíba do Sul basin, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from its congeners (P. brachyrhyncha, P. carrancas, P. cepta, and P. rudolphi) by the presence of a conspicuous ridge on the trunk posterior to the dorsal fin (postdorsal ridge), simple teeth, a completely naked abdomen, a round dorsal profile of the head, greater suborbital depth and greater head width. We discuss the distributional pattern of the new species and its congeners and hypothesize that headwater capture is responsible for the distribution of Pareiorhina species across different watersheds in southeastern of Brazil.
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Western Hemisphere Zuphiini: descriptions of Coarazuphium whiteheadi, new species, and Zuphioides, new genus, and classification of the genera (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Based on small samples (exemplars) analyzed with morphological methods, including detailed descriptions and illustrations, this study treats primarily the Zuphium genus-group in the Western Hemisphere, which comprises two precinctive genera: Coarazuphium Gnaspini, Vanin & Godoy, 1998 (type species Parazuphium tessai Godoy & Vanin, 1990) and Zuphioides gen. n. (type species Zuphium mexicanum Chaudoir, 1863). The genus Coarazuphium includes six troglobitic species from Brazilian caves, and one probably hypogaeic (troglophilic) species from the mountains of Oaxaca, in Mexico (C. whiteheadi, sp. n., type locality, ridge top, in western Oaxaca, Mexico, at 2164 m, 35 km north of San Pedro Juchatengo, 16.462N, 97.010W). The epigaeic genus Zuphioides includes 23 species, with its geographical range extended from Neotropical temperate Argentina in southern South America, northward through the tropics to north temperate southeastern Canada, in the Nearctic Region. Keys are provided to the species of Coarazuphium and to the genera of Western Hemisphere Zuphiini.

The Collothecidae (Rotifera, Collothecacea) of Thailand, with the description of a new species and an illustrated key to the Southeast Asian fauna
Following previous reports indicating a remarkable high diversity of sessile rotifers in Southeast Asian freshwaters, we report on an extensive study of the diversity of Collothecidae rotifers from fifteen freshwater habitats in Thailand. A total of 13 species, including two additional infraspecific variants, of Collothecidae are recorded, one of which is described as a new species of Collotheca. We further add taxonomic remarks on some of the taxa on record and illustrate the uncinate trophi of several representatives by scanning electron microscopic images. Finally, we provide illustrated identification keys to the Collothecidae recorded to date from Southeast Asia.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Systematics of Old World Odontacolus Kieffer s.l. (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae s.l.): parasitoids of spider eggs
The genera Odontacolus Kieffer and Cyphacolus Priesner are among the most distinctive platygastroid wasps because of their laterally compressed metasomal horn; however, their generic status has remained unclear. We present a morphological phylogenetic analysis comprising all 38 Old World and four Neotropical Odontacolus species and 13 Cyphacolus species, which demonstrates that the latter is monophyletic but nested within a somewhat poorly resolved Odontacolus. Based on these results Cyphacolus syn. n. is placed as a junior synonym of Odontacolus which is here redefined. The taxonomy of Old World Odontacolus s.str. is revised; the previously known species O. longiceps Kieffer (Seychelles), O. markadicus Veenakumari (India), O. spinosus (Dodd) (Australia) and O. hackeri (Dodd) (Australia) are re-described, and 32 new species are described: O. africanus Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Congo, Guinea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, South Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe), O. aldrovandii Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Nepal), O. anningae Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Cameroon), O. australiensis Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia), O. baeri Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia), O. berryae Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia, New Zealand, Norfolk Island), O. bosei Valerio & Austin sp. n. (India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka), O. cardaleae Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia), O. darwini Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Thailand), O. dayi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Indonesia), O. gallowayi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia), O. gentingensis Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Malaysia), O. guineensis Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Guinea), O. harveyi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia), O. heratyi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Fiji), O. heydoni Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Malaysia, Thailand), O. irwini Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Fiji), O. jacksonae Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Cameroon, Guinea, Madagascar), O. kiau Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Papua New Guinea), O. lamarcki Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Thailand), O. madagascarensis Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Madagascar), O. mayri Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Indonesia, Thailand), O. mot Valerio & Austin sp. n. (India), O. noyesi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (India, Indonesia), O. pintoi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia, New Zealand, Norfolk Island), O. schlingeri Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Fiji), O. sharkeyi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Thailand), O. veroae Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Fiji), O. wallacei Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia, Indonesia, Malawi, Papua New Guinea), O. whitfieldi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (China, India, Indonesia, Sulawesi, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam), O. zborowskii Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Australia), and O. zimi Valerio & Austin sp. n. (Madagascar). In addition, all species of Cyphacolus are here transferred to Odontacolus: O. asheri (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Sri Lanka), O. axfordi (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Australia), O. bhowaliensis (Mani & Mukerjee) comb. n. (India), O. bouceki (Austin & Iqbal) comb. n. (Australia), O. copelandi (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Kenya, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Thailand), O. diazae (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Kenya), O. harteni (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Yemen, Ivory Coast, Paskistan), O. jenningsi (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Australia), O. leblanci (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Guinea), O. lucianae (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Ivory Coast, Madagascar, South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe), O. normani (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (India, United Arab Emirates), O. sallyae (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Australia), O. tessae (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Australia), O. tullyae (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Australia), O. veniprivus (Priesner) comb. n. (Egypt), and O. watshami (Valerio, Masner & Austin) comb. n. (Africa, Madagascar). Two species of Odontacolus are transferred to the genus Idris Förster: I. longispinosus (Girault) comb. n. and I. amoenus (Kononova) comb. n., and O. doddi Austin syn. n. is placed as a junior synonym of O. spinosus (Dodd). Odontacolus markadicus, previously only known from India, is here recorded from Brunei, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. The relationships, distribution and biology of Odontacolus are discussed, and a key is provided to identify all species.
["Baeini"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Two new species in the subfamily Perlinae (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from China
Two species in the genera Neoperla and Kamimuria (Plecoptera: Perlidae) from China are described as new: Kamimuria guangxia sp. n., and Neoperla mesostyla sp. n. The new species are compared to similar taxa.

Bones and genes: resolution problems in three Vietnamese species of Crocidura (Mammalia, Soricomorpha, Soricidae) and the description of an additional new species
Recent investigations of Southeast Asian white toothed shrews belonging to the genus Crocidura have revealed discrepancies between the results of morphological and molecular studies. The following study concerns three species of Crocidura occurring in Vietnam, namely C. attenuata, C. tanakae and C. wuchihensis, and an undescribed fourth species revealed by molecular analysis. For many years Crocidura attenuata has been known to occur in Vietnam but, until very recently, the morphologically similar and comparably sized C. tanakae was believed to be restricted to Taiwan. Following several molecular studies over the last few years, this species is now believed to be considerably more widespread and recognised as occuring also in Vietnam. The results of one of these recent molecular studies also revealed the presence of an undescribed species of Crocidura, similar in size and morphology to Crocidura wuchihensis, which is herein described. Data are provided on geographical variation in Vietnam and the problems of defining morphologically similar yet molecularly disparate species are discussed.
["Crocidura"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A new species of Elpidium (Crustacea, Ostracoda) from bromeliads in Cusuco National Park, Honduras
Passively dispersing aquatic invertebrates such as Ostracoda in restricted aquatic habitats such as bromeliads remain an intriguing observation considering the highly specialised dispersal vectors needed for efficient colonisation. Here we describe a new species of Elpidium, E. merendonense sp. n., collected from bromeliads in the cloud forest from Cusuco National Park, Honduras. Elpidium merendonense sp. n. is a small to medium-sized species that can be easily distinguished from its congeners by its unique outgrowth at the posterior end of the left valve, visible especially in females. The species was common all through the park occurring at a wide range of altitudes and in different species of bromeliads. This finding is the first freshwater ostracod species described from Honduras and is in agreement with the prediction that the genus Elpidium contains a large number of species with small geographic distributions. We update the list of described species of Elpidium and present a key to species.
["Timiriaseviinae"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Integrative taxonomy of a new species of planarian from the Lake Ohrid basin, including an analysis of biogeographical patterns in freshwater triclads from the Ohrid region (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae)
A new species of the genus Dugesia is described from the Lake Ohrid region in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula, forming the first fully documented species description for this genus in the Ohrid area. The morphological species delimitation is supported by complementary molecular, karyological, and cytogenetic data available from the literature. Therefore, species delineation is based on a truly integrative approach. Further, a short account on the degree of freshwater planarian endemicity in the Ohrid region is provided.
["Platyhelminthes"]

A new species of the gamasid mite genus Arctoseius Thor, 1930 (Parasitiformes, Mesostigmata, Ascidae) from Russia with a key to the multidentatus species-group
A new gamasid mite species belonging to the genus Arctoseius Thor, 1930 is described from Russia. Arctoseius koltschaki sp. n. is distributed in the plain and mountain tundras from Khibiny Mountains to Chukotka on the north and to West Sayan Mountains on the south. A diagnosis and a key for identification of species comprising the multidentatus species-group (A. multidentatus Evans, 1955; Arctoseius wisniewskii Gwiazdowicz & Kamczyc, 2009; A. sexsetus Lindquist & Makarova, 2011; A. haarlovi Lindquist & Makarova, 2011; and A. koltschaki sp. n.) are given.
["Gamasid mites"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A review of the Oriental genus Eudeferunda Chen, Yang & Wilson (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Achilidae) with description of one new species from Hainan, China
A new species of Eudeferunda Chen, Yang & Wilson, 1989 (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Achilidae: Plectoderini), E. alatea Long & Chen sp. n. from Hainan, China, is described and illustrated. The generic characters are modified, including the addition of male genitalia characters. A key to the species of the genus is provided.
["Achilid"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Plant Virus Research Studies"]

Revealing the diversity of a once small taxon: the genus Selenoribates (Acari, Oribatida, Selenoribatidae)
Three new intertidal oribatid species, Selenoribates elegans sp. n., Selenoribates quasimodo sp. n. and Selenoribates satanicus sp. n. are described from the archipelago of Bermuda. Selenoribates elegans sp. n. is characterized by its slender body shape, S. quasimodo sp. n. possesses a hunchback in lateral view and S. satanicus sp. n. exhibits two horn-like projections on its anterior gastronotic region. Based on these new findings, the number of Selenoribates species doubled at once and the distribution of this genus, formerly limited to the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, includes now occurrences in the Atlantic and Indo-pacific Ocean as well. The morphology of S. quasimodo sp. n. and S. satanicus sp. n. deviates conspicuously from the other known members of Selenoribates, thus indicating that not only the number of species but also the anatomy of this genus is more diverse than formerly supposed. Nymphs of S. quasimodo sp. n. show an interesting case of ontogenetic neotrichy, with gastronotic setae being duplicated with each moult.
["Bermuda"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A new species of the genus Arhynchite (Annelida, Echiura) from sandy flats of Japan, previously referred to as Thalassema owstoni Ikeda, 1904
A new echiuran, Arhynchite hayaoi sp. n., is described from newly collected specimens from sandy flats of the Seto Inland Sea, Japan, together with many museum specimens, including those once identified as Thalassema owstoni Ikeda, 1904 or A. arhynchite (Ikeda, 1924). The new species is clearly distinguishable from its congeners by the smooth margin of gonostomal lips and lack of rectal caecum. Brief references are also made to the morphological distinction between the new species and T. owstoni, originally described from the deep bottom on the Japanese Pacific coast.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

A new species of Perinereis (Polychaeta, Nereididae) from Florida, USA, with a key to all Perinereis from the American continent
Specimens belonging to a new species of Perinereis Kinberg, 1865 were collected from natural oyster reefs in an estuarine environment on Florida’s southwest coast. The genus Perinereis includes more than 60 species, of which, P. aibuhitensis (Grube, 1878), P. brevicirrata (Treadwell, 1920), P. camiguinoides (Augener, 1922), P. jascooki Gibbs, 1972, P. kuwaitensis Mohammad, 1970, P. singaporiensis (Grube, 1878), P. vancaurica (Ehlers, 1868) and the new species have two short bars on Area VI and notopodial dorsal ligules that are not greatly expanded. The most geographically close species is P. brevicirrata. The new species can be distinguished from P. brevicirrata by the absence of a notopodial prechaetal lobe, Area V with 3 cones in a triangle, and Area VII-VIII with two well-defined rows of 33 paragnaths, the basal rowlonger paragnaths in relation to the distal ones. The new species resembles P. singaporiensis based on the absence of notopodial prechaetal lobe; however, the two species differ in some morphological characteristics such as tentacular cirri length, shape of dorsal notopodial ligules, and falciger blades. A key to all American species of Perinereis is included.

Description of Nicrophorus efferens, new species, from Bougainville Island (Coleoptera, Silphidae, Nicrophorinae)
A new species of Nicrophorus in the nepalensis species-group, Nicrophorus efferens Sikes and Mousseau, is described from Bougainville Island in the Solomon Islands archipelago. It is distinguished from the known species of the genus Nicrophorus and its likely closest relative, Nicrophorus reticulatus Sikes and Madge, based on external morphology. A comparison among the four Nicrophorus species known from the Solomon Island archipelago and Papua New Guinea is presented.
["Nicrophorus"]
["Insect Utilization and Effects", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Three new species in the harvestmen genus Acuclavella (Opiliones, Dyspnoi, Ischyropsalidoidea), including description of male Acuclavella quattuor Shear, 1986
In Shear’s 1986 cladistic analysis of the Ischyropsalidoidea, he described the new genus Acuclavella including four new species from the Pacific Northwest states of Washington and Idaho. Several of these species descriptions were based on very limited sample sizes. Our recent field work has increased by more than an order of magnitude both the number of specimens and known localities for Acuclavella. We use this new material to interpret species limits in Acuclavella using morphometric analyses and DNA sequence data from four gene regions. We sequence for the first time the protein-coding homolog of the Wnt2 gene for phylogenetic reconstruction in Opiliones. Our multi-locus phylogeny corroborates a sister relationship between Acuclavella and Ceratolasma, as hypothesized using morphology by Shear (1986). Within Acuclavella, morphometric clusters and reciprocal allelic monophyly allows recognition of three additional species: Acuclavella leonardi sp.n., A.sheari sp.n., and A.makah sp.n. This work also describes the previously unknown male of Acuclavella quattuor, from specimens collected at the type locality. Our research identifies a number of novel morphologies for Acuclavella, including females with four pairs of spines, individuals with three pairs of spines on scute areas I-III, and a population with two pairs of spines disjunct from A.quattuor, which was diagnosed with this spination character. We were unable to assign these populations to existing species, and conservatively do not yet recognize them as new. Intrageneric morphometrics and phylogenetic inference in Acuclavella were often concordant. However, we demonstrate that species delimitation signal would not be detected if only a single line of evidence were utilized.
["Molecular phylogenetics"]

On the Monacha species of Lebanon (Gastropoda, Hygromiidae)
In this paper, all seven hitherto known species of the hygromiid genus Monacha from Lebanon are briefly characterised and illustrated, and distribution maps are supplied (Monacha (Monacha) syriaca (Ehrenberg, 1831), Monacha (Monacha) nummus (Ehrenberg, 1831), Monacha (Monacha) obstructa (L. Pfeiffer, 1842), Monacha (Monacha) crispulata (Mousson, 1861), Monacha (Monacha) solitudinis (Bourguignat, 1852), Monacha (Monacha) bari Forcart 1981, and Monacha (Monacha) cf. compingtae (Pallary, 1929)). One species, M. (M.) bari Forcart, 1981, is recorded for the country for the first time, and its relationship to M. (M.) compingtae (Pallary, 1929) is discussed. Based on recently collected specimens, the genital organs of a long time ignored species, Helix solitudinis Bourguignat, 1852 could be investigated. It is here re-described as a Monacha species endemic for Lebanon.
["Hygromiidae"]

Two common and problematic leucochrysine species – Leucochrysa (Leucochrysa) varia (Schneider) and L. (L.) pretiosa (Banks) (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae): redescriptions and synonymies
Leucochrysa McLachlan is the largest genus in the Chrysopidae, yet it has received relatively little taxonomic attention. We treat two problematic and common Leucochrysa species – Leucochrysa (Leucochrysa) varia (Schneider, 1851) and Leucochrysa (Leucochrysa) pretiosa (Banks, 1910). Both are highly variable in coloration and were described before the systematic importance of chrysopid genitalia was recognized. Recent studies show that these species occur within a large complex of cryptic species and that they have accumulated a number of taxonomic problems. We identify new synonymies for each of the species – for L. (L.) varia: Leucochrysa (Leucochrysa) ampla (Walker, 1853), Leucochrysa internata (Walker, 1853), and Leucochrysa (Leucochrysa) walkerina Navás, 1913; for L. (L.) pretiosa: Leucochrysa erminea Banks 1946. The synonymy of Leucochrysa delicata Navás 1925 with L. (L.) pretiosa is stabilized by the designation of a neotype. The following species, which were previously synonymized with L. (L.) varia or L. (L.) pretiosa, are reinstated as valid: Leucochrysa phaeocephala Navás 1929, Leucochrysa (Leucochrysa) angrandi (Navás, 1911), and Leucochrysa (Leucochrysa) variata (Navás, 1913). Finally, Leucochrysa vegana Navás 1917 is considered a nomen dubium.

Review of the genus Agria (Diptera, Sarcophagidae) from China
Agria mihalyii (Rohdendorf and Verves, 1978) is recorded from China for the first time, and both sexes are thoroughly documented using a combination of illustrations, photographs and scanning electron microscopy images. The generic affiliation is corroborated from an expanded definition of genus Agria Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, and a key to males of the two known species from China is provided. The distribution of coeloconic sensilla on the male pre- and postgonite are shown to possess significant diagnostic and phylogenetic information in this genus.
["Paramacronychiinae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

A neotype designation for the bone-skipper Centrophlebomyia anthropophaga (Diptera, Piophilidae, Thyreophorina), with a review of the Palaearctic species of Centrophlebomyia
The European bone-skippers (Diptera: Piophilidae: Thyreophorina), long considered extinct, have recently been the object of much interest by dipterists after their unexpected rediscovery. Considerable faunistic work has been done on these flies in recent years. However, some nomenclatural and taxonomic issues still require attention. A neotype is designated for Thyreophora anthropophaga Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 (now in the genus Centrophlebomyia Hendel, 1903) to fix the identity of this nominal species. Centrophlebomyia anthropophaga is recognized as a valid species. It is described and illustrated in detail, and information on its preimaginal instars is provided for the first time. Four Palaearctic species of Centrophlebomyia are recognized and reviewed and a key is provided for their identification. Centrophlebomyia orientalis Hendel, 1907 from northern India, is removed from synonymy with C. anthropophaga and recognized as a valid species of Centrophlebomyia, stat. r. The nominal genus Protothyreophora Ozerov, 1984 is considered a junior synonym of Centrophlebomyia, syn. n.
["Neotype designation"]
["Insect Utilization and Effects", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A new species of Stenoloba Staudinger, 1892 from China (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Bryophilinae)
A new species of Stenoloba from the olivacea species group, S. solaris, sp. n. (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae), is described from Yunnan, China. Illustrations of the male holotype and its genitalia are provided. A diagnostic comparison is made with Stenoloba albistriata Kononenko & Ronkay, 2000, Stenoloba olivacea (Wileman, 1914), and Stenoloba benedeki Ronkay, 2001 (Fig. 4).
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

New Curculionoidea (Coleoptera) records for Canadа
The following species of Curculionoidea are recorded from Canada for the first time, in ten cases also representing new records at the generic level: Ischnopterapion (Ischnopterapion) loti (Kirby, 1808); Stenopterapion meliloti (Kirby, 1808) (both Brentidae); Atrichonotus taeniatulus (Berg, 1881); Barinus cribricollis (LeConte, 1876); Caulophilus dubius (Horn, 1873); Cionus scrophulariae (Linnaeus, 1758); Cryptorhynchus tristis LeConte, 1876; Cylindrocopturus furnissi Buchanan, 1940; Cylindrocopturus quercus (Say, 1832); Desmoglyptus crenatus (LeConte, 1876); Pnigodes setosus LeConte, 1876; Pseudopentarthrum parvicollis (Casey, 1892); Sibariops confinis (LeConte, 1876); Sibariops confusus (Boheman, 1836); Smicronyx griseus LeConte, 1876; Smicronyx lineolatus Casey, 1892; Euwallacea validus (Eichhoff, 1875); Hylocurus rudis (LeConte, 1876); Lymantor alaskanus Wood, 1978; Phloeotribus scabricollis (Hopkins, 1916); Scolytus oregoni Blackman, 1934; Xyleborus celsus Eichhoff, 1868; Xyleborus ferrugineus (Fabricius, 1801); Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Motschulsky, 1866) (all Curculionidae). In addition the following species were recorded for the first time from these provinces and territories: Yukon – Dendroctonus simplex LeConte, 1868; Phloetribus piceae Swaine, 1911 (both Curculionidae); Northwest Territories – Loborhynchapion cyanitinctum (Fall, 1927) (Brentidae); Nunavut – Dendroctonus simplex LeConte, 1868 (Curculionidae); Alberta – Anthonomus tectus LeConte, 1876; Promecotarsus densus Casey, 1892; Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins, 1902; Hylastes macer LeConte, 1868; Rhyncolus knowltoni (Thatcher, 1940); Scolytus schevyrewi Semenov Tjan-Shansky, 1902 (all Curculionidae); Saskatchewan – Phloeotribus liminaris (Harris, 1852); Rhyncolus knowltoni (Thatcher, 1940); Scolytus schevyrewi Semenov Tjan-Shansky, 1902 (all Curculionidae); Manitoba – Cosmobaris scolopacea Germar, 1819; Listronotus maculicollis (Kirby, 1837); Listronotus punctiger LeConte, 1876; Scolytus schevyrewi Semenov Tjan-Shansky, 1902; Tyloderma foveolatum (Say, 1832); (all Curculionidae); Ontario – Trichapion nigrum (Herbst, 1797); Nanophyes marmoratus marmoratus (Goeze, 1777) (both Brentidae); Asperosoma echinatum (Fall, 1917); Micracis suturalis LeConte, 1868; Orchestes alni (Linnaeus, 1758); Phloeosinus pini Swaine, 1915; Scolytus schevyrewi Semenov Tjan-Shansky, 1902; Xyleborinus attenuatus (Blandford, 1894) (all Curculionidae); Quebec – Trigonorhinus alternatus (Say, 1826); Trigonorhinus tomentosus tomentosus (Say, 1826) (both Anthribidae); Trichapion nigrum (Herbst, 1797); Trichapion porcatum (Boheman, 1839); Nanophyes marmoratus marmoratus (Goeze, 1777) (all Brentidae); Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus Kuschel, 1952 (Brachyceridae); Acalles carinatus LeConte, 1876; Ampeloglypter ampelopsis (Riley, 1869); Anthonomus rufipes LeConte, 1876; Anthonomus suturalis LeConte, 1824; Ceutorhynchus hamiltoni Dietz, 1896; Curculio pardalis (Chittenden, 1908); Cyrtepistomus castaneus (Roelofs, 1873); Larinus planus (Fabricius, 1792); Mecinus janthinus (Germar, 1821); Microhyus setiger LeConte, 1876; Microplontus campestris (Gyllenhal, 1837); Orchestes alni (Linnaeus, 1758); Otiorhynchus ligustici (Linnaeus, 1758); Rhinusa neta (Germar, 1821); Trichobaris trinotata (Say, 1832); Tychius liljebladi Blatchley, 1916; Xyleborinus attenuatus (Blandford, 1894); Xyleborus affinis Eichhoff, 1868 (all Curculionidae); Sphenophorus incongruus Chittenden, 1905 (Dryophthoridae); New Brunswick – Euparius paganus Gyllenhal, 1833; Allandrus populi Pierce, 1930; Gonotropis dorsalis (Thunberg, 1796); Euxenus punctatus LeConte, 1876 (all Anthribidae); Loborhynchapion cyanitinctum (Fall, 1927) (Brentidae); Pseudanthonomus seriesetosus Dietz, 1891; Curculio sulcatulus (Casey, 1897); Lignyodes bischoffi (Blatchley, 1916); Lignyodes horridulus (Casey, 1892); Dietzella zimmermanni (Gyllenhal, 1837); Parenthis vestitus Dietz, 1896; Pelenomus squamosus LeConte, 1876; Psomus armatus Dietz, 1891; Rhyncolus macrops Buchanan, 1946; Magdalis inconspicua Horn, 1873; Magdalis salicis Horn, 1873 (all Curculionidae); Nova Scotia – Dryocoetes autographus (Ratzeburg, 1837); Ips perroti Swaine, 1915; Xyleborinus attenuatus (Blandford, 1894) (all Curculionidae); Prince Edward Island – Dryocoetes caryi Hopkins, 1915 (Curculionidae); Newfoundland – Scolytus piceae (Swaine, 1910) (Curculionidae).
["Anthribidae"]

Two new species of Itagonia Reitter (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Blaptini) from Chinae
Two new species of Itagonia Reitter, 1887, I. tibialis sp. n. and I. litangensis sp. n. are described from Sichuan, China. A key to the known species of Itagonia from China is given.

Revision of the genus Neometopina (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Delphacidae) from China
The planthopper genus Neometopina Yang (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Delphacidae: Delphacinae: Delphacini) is revised to include 2 species: Neometopina penghuensis Yang, 1989 (China: Guizhou: Maolan), and Neometopina orientalis (Qin & Zhang) comb. n. (China: Hainan: Bawangling) (transferred from Laminatopina Qin & Zhang). The included species are described and illustrated, and a key to species is provided.

A taxonomic guide to the brittle-stars (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea) from the State of Paraíba continental shelf, Northeastern Brazil
We provide the first annotated checklist of ophiuroids from the continental shelf of the State of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Identification keys and taxonomic diagnoses for 23 species, belonging to 14 genera and 8 families, are provided. The material is deposited in the Invertebrate Collection Paulo Young, at the Federal University of Paraíba. Ophiopsila hartmeyeri represents the first record for the northeastern region of Brazil, while Ophiolepis impressa, O. paucispina, Amphiura stimpsoni, Amphiodia riisei, Ophiactis quinqueradia, Ophiocoma wendtii and Ophionereis olivaceae are new records for the State of Paraíba. The number of species known for the state was increased from 16 to 23, representing approximately 17% of the species known for Brazil and 54% of the species known for northeastern Brazil. The recorded fauna has a large geographical and bathymetrical distribution.
["Echinoderms"]

Two new Korean earthworms (Annelida, Oligochaeta, Megadrilacea, Megascolecidae)
Two Korean endemic pheretimoid Amynthas Kinberg, 1867 species belonging in family Megascolecidae s. stricto are sketched, dissected and described. Amynthas daeari Blakemore sp. n. has spermathecae in 6/7/8 complying with an A. tokioensis spp-group, whilst Amynthas jinburi Blakemore sp. n. has spermathecal pores in 5 & 6 strictly complying with Sims & Easton’s (1972) A. canaliculatus-group. A definitive COI gene barcode is provided for the holotype of A. daeari but the age since collection or preservation of the A. jinburi type in 2000 precluded its mtDNA extraction at this time.
["Soil fauna"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Maeropsis paphavasitae and Rotomelita longipropoda, two new species (Crustacea, Amphipoda) from Lower Gulf of Thailand
Two new species of maerid and melitid Amphipoda, Maeropsis paphavasitae and Rotomelita longipropoda, respectively, collected from a seagrassbed of the Lower Gulf of Thailand, are described. Maeropsis paphavasitae is characterized by it seven teeth on the palm of gnathopod 2 and R. longipropoda can be recognized by its long gnathopod 1 propodus. Their characters are described and illustrated. All specimens are deposited at Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand and the Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin.

A new Haptoclinus blenny (Teleostei, Labrisomidae) from deep reefs off Curaçao, southern Caribbean, with comments on relationships of the genus
A second species of the blenniiform genus Haptoclinus is described from deep reefs off Curaçao, southern Caribbean. Haptoclinus dropi sp. n. differs from the northwestern Caribbean H. apectolophus Böhlke and Robins, 1974, in29 total dorsal-fin elements—III-I-XIII, 12 (vs. 31—III-I-XIV, 13 or III-I-XIII, 14); 19 anal-fin soft rays (vs. 20-21); 12 pectoral-fin rays (vs. 13); 12 precaudal vertebrae (vs. 13); and the first dorsal-fin spine longer than the second (vs. the second longer than the first). It further differs from H. apectolophus in lacking scales (vs. three-quarters of body densely scaled), ina distinctive pattern of spotting on the trunk and fins in preservative (vs. no spotting), and in lacking a fleshy flap on the anterior rim of the posterior nostril (vs. flap present). Color in life is unknown for H. apectolophus, and the color description presented for the new species constitutes the first color information for the genus. Familial placement of Haptoclinus remains questionable, but the limited relevant information obtained from morphological examination of the new species provides additional support for a close relationship with the Chaenopsidae. Haptoclinus dropi represents one of numerous new teleost species emerging from sampling to 300 m off Curaçao as part of the Smithsonian Institution’s Deep Reef Observation Project (DROP).
["Blenniiformes"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Synopsis of Acanthocerini (Hemiptera, Coreidae) from Argentina
Eight genera and 13 species of the tribe Acanthocerini are recorded in Argentina, i.e., Athaumastus haematicus (Stål), A. macer Brailovsky, A. subcarinatus (Stål), A. subterlineatus Bergroth, Beutelspacoris sanchezi Brailovsky, B. dilatata Casini, Camptischium clavipes (Fabricius), Crinocerus sanctus (Fabricius), Dersagrena flaviventris (Berg), D. lacerdae (Signoret), D. subfoveolata (Berg), Thlastocoris hernandezi Brailovsky and Zoreva dentipes Fabricius. Redescriptions are given for A. haematicus, A. subcarinatus and D. flaviventris with photographs of male and female genitalia of D. subfoveolata. Zoreva recorded from Argentina the first time. New locality records are given for Buenos Aires, Chaco, Formosa, Misiones, and Tucumán.
["Acanthocerini"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Exocelina baliem sp. n., the only known pond species of New Guinea Exocelina Broun, 1886 (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
Exocelina baliem sp. n. is described from the Baliem Valley in the Central Mountain Range of New Guinea (Papua Province, Indonesia).striolate elytra, different structure and setation of the male and female genitalia and tarsomeres, and inhabiting swampy ponds, the new species differs from all known New Guinea species, which have smooth elytra and are stream associated. It forms a monophyletic group with the Australian E. ferruginea (Sharp, 1882) and New Caledonian E. inexspectata Wewalka, Balke & Hendrich, 2010, based on shape of the paramere and structure of the male tarsi. Habitus, protarsomeres, and male and female genitalia are illustrated, comparing some structures with E. ferruginea and two New Guinea stream species. We briefly discuss the biogeographic relevance of this discovery.
["Exocelina"]

Seladonia (Pachyceble) henanensis sp. n. (Hymenoptera, Halictidae) from China
Seladonia (Pachyceble) henanensis sp. n., is described from Henan Province, the eastern-central part of China. This species is separated from its allied species by a combination of the following morphological characters: head broad in female, inner hind tibial spur of female with 7–8 slender teeth, T1 basolaterally with appressed hair tuft in both sexes, and genitalia with long and large lower gonostylus in male. Important taxonomic characters are illustrated with photographs, scanning electron micrographs, and line drawings.

New species and records of Lobrathium Mulsant & Rey (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from China
Seven new species of the genus Lobrathium Mulsant & Rey from China are described and illustrated: L. anatinum Li & Li, sp. n. (Guangxi), L. diaoluoense Li & Li, sp. n. (Hainan), L. dufui Li & Li, sp. n. (Hubei), L. lirunyui Li & Li, sp. n. (Guizhou), L. pengi Li & Li, sp. n. (Guangxi), L. quyuani Li & Li, sp. n. (Hubei) and L. uncinatum Li & Li, sp. n. (Qinghai). A recent key to the species of mainland China is modified to accommodate the new species. New locality data are provided for eleven species.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Taxonomy of the Cryptopygus complex. I. Pauropygus - a new worldwide littoral genus (Collembola, Isotomidae)
In this paper, we describe the new genus Pauropygus gen. n. which includes three minute species, blind and unpigmented, living in interstitial littoral habitats in tropical or subtropical countries. Two of these species are new to science (type species P. projectus sp. n. from New Caledonia and P. pacificus sp. n. from China); the third one, originally described in the genus Cryptopygus (C. caussaneli Thibaud, 1996), has a larger pantropical distribution. We synonymize here Cryptopygus riebi Barra, 1997 from South Africa with Pauropygus caussaneli. Two paratypes of the Mexican species Cryptopygus axayacatl Palacios & Thibaud, 2001 turned also to be P. caussaneli, while the holotype and remaining paratypes of this species support its placement in Proisotomodes. Among the Cryptopygus complex, Pauropygus gen. n. is easily recognized by characters of mouthparts (presence of two large projections on pleural fold, basolateral field with 6 chaetae, modified mouthparts) and reduced sensillar chaetotaxy (tergal sensilla 2-3,0-1/0-1,0-1,1-2,1-2,1-3, microsensilla reduced in number: 00/0-100, with sensilla situated in p-row on the abdomen). Small size, absence of eyes and pigment are also shared by all its species. The three species belonging to the genus differ by sensillar chaetotaxy.

Two new species of the genus Ancistrocerus Wesmael (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae) from China, with a key to the Oriental species
Two new species, namely Ancistrocerus transpunctatus You and Li, sp. n. and Ancistrocerus deqinensis You and Li, sp. n. are described and illustrated from Yunnan, China. A key to the Oriental species of the genus Ancistrocerus is provided.

A food plant specialist in Sparganothini: A new genus and species from Costa Rica (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)
Sparganocosma docsturnerorum Brown, new genus and new species, is described and illustrated from Área de Conservación (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica. The new genus shares a long, crescent- or ribbon-shaped signum in the corpus bursae of the female genitalia with Aesiocopa Zeller, 1877, Amorbia Clemens, 1860, Amorbimorpha Kruse, 2011, Coelostathma Clemens, 1860, Lambertiodes Diakonoff, 1959, Paramorbia Powell & Lambert, 1986, Rhynchophyllus Meyrick, 1932, Sparganopseustis Powell & Lambert, 1986, Sparganothina Powell, 1986, and Sparganothoides Lambert & Powell, 1986. Putative autapomorphies for Sparganocosma include the extremely short uncus; the smooth (unspined) transtilla; and the upturned, free, distal rod of the sacculus. Adults of Sparganocosma docsturnerorum have been reared numerous times (>50) from larvae collected feeding on rain forest Asplundia utilis (Oerst.) Harling and A. microphylla (Oerst.) Harling (Cyclanthaceae) at intermediate elevations (375–500 m) in ACG. Whereas most Sparganothini are generalists, typically feeding on two or more plant families, Sparganocosma docsturnerorum appears to be a specialist on Asplundia, at least in ACG. The solitary parasitoid wasp Sphelodon wardae Godoy & Gauld (Ichneumonidae; Banchinae) has been reared only from the larvae of S. docsturnerorum.

Two new species of the genera Mysmena and Trogloneta (Mysmenidae, Araneae) from Southwestern China
Two new spider species of the family Mysmenidae Petrunkevitch, 1928 are reported from Southwestern China, i.e., Mysmena wawuensis sp. n. (male and female) from Sichuan and Trogloneta yuensis sp. n. (male) from Chongqing. Diagnoses and illustrations of the new species are provided.

Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Truncozetes (Acari, Oribatida, Epactozetidae) from Ecuador
Two new oribatid mite species of the genus Truncozetes (Oribatida, Epactozetidae), T. ecuadoriensis sp. n. and T. monodactylus sp. n., are described from the Ecuadorian soils. The morphology of the gnathosoma and the legs is presented in detail for the first time for the species of Truncozetes. An identification key to all known species of the family Epactozetidae is given.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Eight new apterous Lathrobium species (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) from Sichuan, Southwest China
Eight apterous species of the paederine genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst, 1802 from the Chinese province Sichuan are described, illustrated, and distinguished from closely related and/or geographically close congeners: L. erlangense Peng & Li sp. n. (Erlang Shan), L. blandum Peng & Li sp. n. (Labahe N. R.), L. yelense Peng & Li sp. n. (Yele), L. obscurum Peng & Li sp. n. (Yele), L. yinziweii Peng & Li sp. n. (Yele), L. illustre Peng & Li sp. n. (Yele), L. micangense Peng & Li sp. n. (Micang Shan) and L. agglutinatum Assing & Peng sp. n. (Qingcheng Shan). The total number of described Lathrobium species from Sichuan now stands at 39, that of mainland China at 165.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Three new species in the genus Wilkinsonellus (Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from the Neotropics, and the first host record for the genus
The genus Wilkinsonellus Mason is a poorly sampled but widely distributed tropical genus of Microgastrinae (Braconidae), parasitoid wasps that exclusively attack caterpillars (Lepidoptera). Currently, species of Wilkinsonellus have been described only from the Palaeotropics, but the genus was known to occur in the Neotropics. Here we describe the first three species from Central and South America: Wilkinsonellus alexsmithi sp. n., Wilkinsonellus kogui sp. n., and Wilkinsonellus panamaensis sp. n. These species descriptions confirm that Wilkinsonellus is a Pantropical genus. A dichotomous key for the three new Neotropical species is given. The first recorded host for the genus, Microthyris prolongalis (Crambidae), is also reported, for Wilkinsonellus alexsmithi.

Review of the millipede family Opisotretidae (Diplopoda, Polydesmida), with descriptions of new species
The small, basically Oriental family Opisotretidae is rediagnosed, reclassified, and shown to comprise the following seven genera, all keyed: Carlotretus Hoffman, 1980, with two species, including C. triramus sp. n. from southern China; Corypholophus Attems, 1938, with two species, one in Vietnam, the other in the Ryukyus, Japan; Martensodesmus Golovatch, 1987, with eight species, all keyed, including M. cattienensis sp. n. from southern Vietnam, as well as M. bedosae sp. n. and M. spiniger sp. n. from southern China; Opisotretus Attems, 1907, with seven species, all keyed, including O. beroni sp. n. and O. hagen sp. n., both from Papua New Guinea, O. deharvengi sp. n. from Sulawesi, Indonesia, and O. spinosus sp. n. from Nusakambangan Island, off Java, Indonesia; Opisthoporodesmus Silvestri, 1899, with six nominate species; Retrodesmus Chamberlin, 1945, with two species, i.e. the type-species R. dammermani Chamberlin, 1945, from Java, Indonesia, revised from the holotype, and R. cavernicola sp. n., from Papua New Guinea; and Solaenaulus Attems, 1940, with two species. Comments are presented on the family’s possible relationships and palaeogeographic history. Instead of being considered as the sole component of the superfamily Opisotretoidea, the Opisotretidae is believed here to form one of the families of the diverse superfamily Trichopolydesmoidea, perhaps the sister-group to, if not immediately derived from, the pantropical family Fuhrmannodesmidae. The origin of Opisotretidae, previously dated as far back as the Triassic (220 Ma) in relation to the fragmentation of eastern Gondwanaland, mainly in the region of present-day Indonesia, could have had nothing to do with Gondwanaland. Opisotretids might have originated in mainland Southeast Asia well within the Cenozoic, with subsequent dispersals along the Himalayas in the West and across Indonesia (including New Guinea) in the East, also reaching as far north as the Ryukyus, Japan and Guangxi, southern China.

A new Ingolfiellid (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Ingolfiellidae) from an anchialine pool on Abd al Kuri Island, Socotra Archipelago, Yemen
Ingolfiella arganoi sp. n. from Abd al Kuri Island in the Arabian Sea is described from two specimens, a male and a female. The western shore of the Indian Ocean was hitherto a vacant spot in the distribution of circumtropical shallow marine interstitial ingolfiellids and therefore the location of the new species fills a meaningful gap in the geography of the family. Morphologically, the new species shows close affinities with I. xarifae from the Maldives.

Notes on Michael Schülke’s pselaphine collections from China. – Tyrini. II. Genus Megatyrus Hlaváč & Nomura (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
Two new species of the tyrine genus Megatyrus Hlaváč & Nomura, M. schuelkei Yin & Li, sp. n. (based on two males) and M. tengchongensis Yin & Li, sp. n. (based on one female), from Yunnan, Southwest China are described, illustrated and distinguished from allied species. The body size, form of maxillary palpi, male and female genital structures, and distributional patterns are used to separate the new species.

Notes on the scorpions (Arachnida, Scorpiones) from Xizang with the redescription of Scorpiops jendeki Kovařík, 2000 (Scorpiones, Euscorpiidae) from Yunnan (China)
Until now, there are 26 scorpion species of 7 genera of 5 families recorded in Xizang (China). Xizang Autonomous Region (Tibet) is the scorpion biodiversity richest area in China (53 scorpion species of 12 genera of 5 families), also the highest altitude habitat of scorpions in the world. We present information of type specimens, an identification key of the scorpion species from Xizang, the distribution, updated feature pictures, and discussion on the disputed species. The redescriptions of Scorpiops jendeki Kovařík, 2000 (Yunnan) and S. tibetanus Hirst, 1911 (Xizang), comments and feature figures of species of genus Scorpiops are provided for identification.
["Scorpions"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Subgeneric division of the genus Orcula Held 1837 with remarks on Romanian orculid data (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Orculidae)
The genital anatomy of Orcula jetschini (Romania), O. zilchi (Bulgaria) and O. wagneri (Albania) is described. Based on anatomical features (morphology of the penial caecum), shell characters (sculpture and shape) and unpublished molecular data, the genus Orcula is subdivided into three subgenera. O. zilchi was classified within the monotypic subgenus Orcula (Hausdorfia) subgen. n.; O. jetschini, O. wagneri and O. schmidtii were classified to Orcula (Illyriobanatica) subgen. n. (type species: Pupa Schmidtii), whereas the other Orcula species remain in the nominotypical subgenus. Orcula (Hausdorfia) is known from South-Eastern Bulgaria and North-Western Turkey, Orcula (Illyriobanatica) inhabits Western Romania, North-Western Greece, Albania, Macedonia, Kosovo and Montenegro. The nine species of Orcula (Orcula) are known mainly from the Alps and the Western Carpathians (from Eastern France to Eastern Hungary and Slovakia).The occurrence of only one Orcula species, namely O. jetschini is verified from Romania. Available information suggests that data on the Romanian occurrence of Orcula dolium and O. gularis were based on wrongly identified specimens. Sphyradium dobrogicum (=Orcula dobrogica) is considered as a synonym of S. doliolum.

Cardiocondyla pirata sp. n. – a new Philippine ant with enigmatic pigmentation pattern (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
A new species of the ant genus Cardiocondyla Emery, 1869 – Cardiocondyla pirata sp. n. – is described from the Philippines. The species belongs to an Indo-Malayan group of six species that is characterized by workersa strongly bilobate postpetiolar sternite and a thickset mesosoma with strongly convex dorsal profile as well as wingless, ergatoid males with sickle-shaped mandibles. The female castes show a pigmentation pattern not known from any ant worldwide. Ifany adaptive value, a possible function of this structure is supposed to be visual dissolution of body shape in order to irritate predators.
["Cardiocondyla"]

Immature Stages and Hosts of Two Plesiomorphic, Antillean Genera of Membracidae (Hemiptera) and a new species of Antillotolania from Puerto Rico
The nymphs of Antillotolania Ramos and Deiroderes Ramos are described for the first time, along with the first host record for the genus Antillotolania, represented by A. myricae, sp. n. Nymphal features of both genera, such as a ventrally fused, cylindrical tergum IX (anal tube), the presence of abdominal lamellae, and heads with foliaceous ventrolateral lobes confirm their placement in Membracidae and are consistent with phylogenetic analyses placing them in Stegaspidinae but in conflict with a cladistic analysis showing a closer relationship to Nicomiinae. Head processes and emarginate forewing pads in the last instars of both genera support an earlier estimate, based on nuclear genes, that the two genera form a monophyletic group in Stegaspidinae. Distinguishing features of the four species of Antillotolania are tabulated.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

The genus Macroteleia Westwood (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae s. l., Scelioninae) from China
The genus Macroteleia Westwood (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae s. l., Scelioninae) from China is revised. Seventeen species are recognized based on 502 specimens, all of which are new records for China. Seven new species are described: M. carinigena sp. n. (China), M. flava sp. n. (China), M. gracilis sp. n. (China), M. salebrosa sp. n. (China), M. semicircula sp. n. (China), M. spinitibia sp. n. (China) and M. striatipleuron sp. n. (China). Ten species are redescribed: M. boriviliensis Saraswat (China, India, Thailand), M. crawfordi Kiefer, stat. n. (China, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam), M. dolichopa Sharma (China, India, Vietnam), M. emarginata Dodd (China, Malaysia), M. indica Saraswat & Sharma (China, India, Vietnam), M. lamba Saraswat & Sharma (China, India, Thailand, Vietnam), M. livingstoni Saraswat (China, India), M. peliades Kozlov & Lê (China, Vietnam), M. rufa Szelényi (China, Egypt, Georgia, Russia, Thailand, Ukraine) and M. striativentris Crawford (China, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam). The following five new synonyms are proposed: M. crates Kozlov & Lê syn. n. and M. demades Kozlov & Lê syn. n. of M. crawfordi Kieffer; M. cebes Kozlov & Lê syn. n. and M. dones Kozlov & Lê syn. n. of M. indica Saraswat & Sharma; M. dores Kozlov & Lê syn. n. of M. lamba Saraswat & Sharma. A key to the Chinese species of the genus is provided.
["Platygastridae s. l."]

The Tetramorium tortuosum species group (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae) revisited - taxonomic revision of the Afrotropical T. capillosum species complex
In this study we revise the taxonomy of the Tetramorium tortuosum species group members encountered in the Afrotropical region, which we have placed in its own subgroup: the T. capillosum species complex. We re-describe the two previously known species T. capillosum Bolton and T. tabarum Bolton, and describe the new species T. hecate sp. n. The geographic distribution of the three species appears to be restricted to the equatorial rainforests of Central Africa. We provide a diagnosis of the T. capillosum species complex, an illustrated identification key to species level, and worker-based species descriptions, which include diagnoses, discussions, high-quality montage images, and distribution maps. Furthermore, we discuss biogeography and composition of the globally distributed T. tortuosum group.

Six new species of Cymatodera from Mexico and Central America and the retention of Cymatodera obliquefasciata as a valid name (Cleridae, Tillinae)
Six new Cymatodera species from the Mexican states of Jalisco and Chiapas, and the Central American countries of El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica and Panamá are described: C. rosalinae sp. n., C. capax sp.n., C. sinuosa sp. n., C. vittata sp. n., C. rubida sp. n. and C. limatula sp. n. Justification for retaining C. obliquefasciata within Cymatodera instead of transferring it to Bogcia is provided. Male genitalia and other characters of taxonomic value are illustrated.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Torrenticolid water mites from Korea and the Russian Far East
New records of water mites of the family Torrenticolidae Piersig, 1902 (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from streams in South Korea and the Russian Far East are presented. Detailed descriptions or redescrptions are provided for eight species of the genera Torrenticola Piersig, 1896 and Monatractides K.Viets 1926. Two species are described as new to science: Torrenticola kimichungi sp. n. and Monatractides abei sp. n. Five species are reported as first records from Korea: Torrenticola brevirostris (Halbert, 1911); T. dentifera Wiles, 1991; T. recentis Tuzovskij, 2003; T. ussuriensis (Sokolow, 1934); and T. turkestanica (Sokolow, 1926). Torrenticola nipponica (Enami, 1940) is reported for the first time from Russia.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

The genus Myrmarachne (Araneae, Salticidae) in Flores, Indonesia
Two new species of the genus Myrmarachne are described (M. acutidens sp. n., M. epigealis sp. n.), and M. macrognatha and M. melanocephala are redescribed from Flores specimens. The females of M. macrognatha are recorded for the first time.

A relict lineage and new species of green palm-pitviper (Squamata, Viperidae, Bothriechis) from the Chortís Highlands of Mesoamerica
A new species of palm-pitviper of the genus Bothriechis is described from Refugio de Vida Silvestre Texíguat in northern Honduras. The new species differs from congeners by19 dorsal scale rows at midbody, a bright green dorsal coloration in adults, the prelacunal scale fused to the second supralabial, and in representing a northern lineage that is sister to B. lateralis, which is distributed in Costa Rica and western Panama and is isolated from the new taxon by the Nicaraguan Depression. This represents the 15th endemic species occurring in Refugio de Vida Silvestre Texíguat, one of the richest herpetofaunal sites in Honduras, itself being the country with the highest degree of herpetofaunal endemism in Central America. We name this new species in honor of a Honduran conservationist slain in fighting against illegal logging, highlighting the sacrifices of rural activists in battling these issues and the critical importance of conservation in these areas.
["Bothriechis guifarroi sp. n."]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Revision of the genus Placospongia (Porifera, Demospongiae, Hadromerida, Placospongiidae) in the Indo-West Pacific
Species of the genus Placospongia are common within the tropical Indo-West Pacific, demonstrating a wide variety of colors and either branching or encrusting growth forms. A revision of Indo-West Pacific Placospongia was undertaken based on a redescription of the holotypes of species of Placospongia from the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific and an examination of an additional 103 specimens of Placospongia ssp. collected from Indonesia (including Vosmaer and Vernhout 1902 material), Seychelles, India, Singapore and Micronesia. One mitochondrial (COI) and one nuclear (ITS) marker were subsequently used to differentiate species. All Placospongia species are characterized by selenasters and tylostyles in two size classes. The combination of microsclere diversity and morphology as well as megasclere size were shown to be informative morphometric characters, supported by molecular evidence. Live coloration and growth form is shown to be unreliable for diagnoses. The study of holotypes found that P. mixta is a valid species and that two genus transfers are necessary: Geodinella anthosigma is a Placospongia and P. labyrinthica is a Geodia. A new species is also described from an anchialine pool in Indonesia, Placospongia santodomingoae sp. n.; bringing the total fauna of Placospongia species in the Indo-West Pacific to five: Placospongia anthosigma, Placospongia carinata, Placospongia mixta, Placospongia melobesioides, and Placospongia santodomingoae sp.n. An identification key is given. Two additional species, possibly morphologically cryptic, have been identified by molecular markers.
["Sponge"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Taxonomy and distribution pattern of the African rain forest butterfly genus Euphaedra Hübner sensu stricto with the description of three new subspecies of Euphaedra cyparissa (Cramer) and one of E. sarcoptera (Butler) (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Limenitidinae, Adoliadini)
Updated data on the distribution, ecology and taxonomy of Euphaedra cyparissa (Cramer) and Euphaedra sarcoptera (Butler) are presented. Three new subspecies of E. cyparissa and one of E. sarcoptera are described and their geographic distribution is presented. The monophyly of the genus Euphaedra sensu Hecq is assessed based on morphological, in particular male and female genitalia, and behavioural traits. Possible evolutionary reasons for the convergence of colour pattern between the sympatric subspecies of E. cyparissa and E. sarcoptera are discussed.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

The soapberry bug, Jadera haematoloma (Insecta, Hemiptera, Rhopalidae): First Asian record, with a review of bionomics
The soapberry bug, Jadera haematoloma (Herrich-Schäffer, 1847) (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Rhopalidae: Serinethinae), a species native in tropical and subtropical regions of the New World and accidentally introduced to Hawaii, is reported for the first time from Asia (Taiwan). This record represents the first occurrence of the species in Asia. Stable populations composed of hundreds of specimens were found in seven localities of Kaohsiung City and one locality in Tainan City, and a single specimen was observed in Chiayi County. Aggregating adults and larvae fed in large numbers on the sapindacean plants Cardiospermum halicacabum L. and Koelreuteria elegans (Seem.) A. C. Smith ssp. formosana (Hayata) F. G. Meyer. Diagnostic characters of adults and larvae of J. haematoloma are discussed. A review of its bionomics and a bibliography are provided. Initial observations on the populations in southern Taiwan are presented. The species is potentially invasive, and further extension of its range is anticipated in Southeast Asia.

Two new Mallinella species from southern China (Araneae, Zodariidae)
Two new species of the spider genus Mallinella Strand, 1906 are reported from China: Mallinella sphaerica sp. n. (male, female) from Tianmu Mountain, Zhejiang Province and M. pluma sp. n. (male) from Daming Mountain, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
["Spider"]

Pogonophryne neyelovi, a new species of Antarctic short-barbeled plunderfish (Perciformes, Notothenioidei, Artedidraconidae) from the deep Ross Sea
This paper continues descriptions of new deep-water Antarctic barbeled plunderfishes of the poorly known and the most speciose notothenioid genus Pogonophryne. It is based on a comprehensive collection obtained by the authors in 2009–2010 during an Antarctic toothfish (Dissostichus mawsoni) fishing trip. A new species, the hopbeard plunderfish P. neyelovi, the twenty-second species of the genus, is described. The new species belongs to dorsally-spotted short-barbeled species forming the “P. mentella” group. Pogonophryne neyelovi sp.n. is characterized by the following combination of characters: a very short and small mental barbel with an ovaloid and short terminal expansion covered by flattened scale-like processes that are mostly bluntly palmate; a moderately protruding lower jaw; a high second dorsal fin almost uniformly black and lacking a sharply elevated anterior lobe; pectoral fins striped anteriorly and uniformly light posteriorly; the anal and pelvic fins light; the dorsal surface of the head and the area anterior to the first dorsal fin covered with large, irregular dark brown blotches and spots; the ventral surface of the head, breast and belly without sharp dark markings. The new species is compared to the closest species P. brevibarbata, P. tronio, and P. ventrimaculata. English vernacular names are proposed for all species of the genus.
["Southern Ocean"]
["Marine and fisheries research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

The species of the genus Hypodynerus de Saussure (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Eumeninae) occurring in Brazil
An identification table and descriptions are given to recognize the two species of Hypodynerus (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) recorded from Brazil: H. arechavaletae (Brèthes) and H. duckei (Bertoni) comb. n. The lectotype is designated and the male is described for Hypodynerus duckei, its presence being recorded from Brazil for the first time.
["Vespidae"]

Morphological and acoustic characters of Cicadatra platyptera Fieber, 1876
Acoustic and morphological characters are very important to distinguish species of Cicadidae. In this study, the morphological and acoustic characters of Cicadatra platyptera Fieber, 1876 (Hemiptera, Cicadidae) collected from Turkey were analysed. The external morphological structures of two species were drawn and photographs of some specimens were taken. We evaluated taxonomically important morphological characters such as body shape, colors, patterns, structure, and genital structure. We evaluated measurements of external morphological structures and acoustics characters of C. platyptera from Turkey, partly with statistical analyses. Morphological characters were compared and differentiated from the closely related species, C. atra. The distribution in Turkey including previous records and the material examined were shown on a map, and the distribution in Palearctic Region was given.
["Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and animal studies", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

Revision of the Middle American clade of the ant genus Stenamma Westwood (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Myrmicinae)
Stenamma is a cryptic “leaf-litter” ant genus that occurs in mesic forest habitats throughout the Holarctic region, Central America, and part of northwestern South America (Colombia and Ecuador). The genus was thought to be restricted primarily to the temperate zone, but recent collecting efforts have uncovered a large radiation of Neotropical forms, which rival the Holarctic species in terms of morphological and behavioral diversity. By inferring a broad-scale molecular phylogeny of Stenamma, Branstetter (2012) showed that all Neotropical species belong to a diverse Middle American clade (MAC), and that this clade is sister to an almost completely geographically separated Holarctic clade (HOC). Here, the Middle American clade of Stenamma is revised to recognize 40 species, of which 33 are described as new. Included in the revision are a key to species based on the worker caste, and for each species where possible, descriptions and images of workers and queens, images of males, information on geographic distribution, descriptions of intraspecific variation, and notes on natural history. Several species groups are defined, but the majority of species remain unassigned due to a lack of diagnostic morphological character states for most molecular clades. The following species are redescribed: S. alas Longino, S. diversum Mann, S. expolitum Smith, S. felixi Mann, S. huachucanum Smith, S. manni Wheeler, and S. schmidti Menozzi. The following are described as new: S. andersoni sp. n., S. atribellum sp. n., S. brujita sp. n., S. callipygium sp. n., S. catracho sp. n., S. connectum sp. n., S. crypticum sp. n., S. cusuco sp. n., S. excisum sp. n., S. expolitico sp. n., S. hojarasca sp. n., S. ignotum sp. n., S. lagunum sp. n., S. llama sp. n., S. leptospinum sp. n., S. lobinodus sp. n., S. longinoi sp. n., S. maximon sp. n., S. megamanni sp. n., S. monstrosum sp. n., S. muralla sp. n., S. nanozoi sp. n., S. nonotch sp. n., S. ochrocnemis sp. n., S. pelophilum sp. n., S. picopicucha sp. n., S. saenzae sp. n., S. sandinista sp. n., S. stictosomum sp. n., S. tiburon sp. n., S. tico sp. n., S. vexator sp. n., and S. zelum sp. n. Although many of the newly defined species consist of challenging species complexes, this study establishes a robust baseline that will guide future work on the systematics of MAC Stenamma. The total global diversity of Stenamma now includes 84 extant species.
["Stenammini"]

Description and scanning electron microscopic observation of a new species of the genus Polycopetta (Crustacea, Ostracoda, Cladocopina) from an interstitial habitat in Japan
A new species of the genus Polycopetta Chavtur, 1981, Polycopetta quadrispinata sp. n. is described from the interstitial environment of Mihomasaki Beach in Japan. These observations showed some morphological peculiarities of Polycopetta quadrispinata sp. n. compared with its congeners; P. monneroni Chavtur, 1979, P. curva Chavtur, 1979, P. bransfieldensis (Hartmann, 1987), and P. pax Kornicker and Harrison-Nelson, 2005. Three characteristics are described for the first time: (1) a seta with serrated tip on the male antennula, (2) the endopodite of the fifth limb consisting of two podomeres, (3) the long spermatozoa in the male posterior body. More detailed observations of the type species are needed in order to update the generic diagnosis.
["Endopodite of fifth limb"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Taxonomic revision of the genus Callimerus Gorham s. l. (Coleoptera, Cleridae). Part I. latifrons species-group
The latifrons species-group (=Brachycallimerus sensu Chapin 1924, Corporaal 1950; = flavofasciatus-group sensu Kolibáč 1998) of Callimerus Gorham is redefined and revised. Five species are recognized including one new species Callimerus cacuminis Yang & Yang sp. n. (type locality: Yunnan, China). Callimerus flavofasciatus Schenkling, 1902 is newly synonymized with C. latifrons Gorham, 1876. Callimerus trifasciatus Schenkling, 1899a is transferred to the genus Corynommadius Schenkling, 1899a. Callimerus gorhami Corporaal, 1949 and C. pallidus Gorham, 1892 are excluded from the latifrons species-group (their assignment to a species-group will be dealt with in a subsequent paper). A key to species of the latifrons species-group is given and habitus of each type specimen, male terminalia, and other diagnostic characters are illustrated.
["Cleridae"]

Revision of Australian Matini diving beetles based on morphological and molecular data (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Matinae), with description of a new species
Morphological characters and mitochondrial DNA sequence data were used to revise the Australian diving beetles in the genera Allomatus Mouchamps, 1964 and Batrachomatus Clark, 1863. As a result of these studies Allomatus syn. n. is synonymised with Batrachomatus, and Allomatus nannup Watts, 1978 from SW Australia and A. wilsoni Mouchamps, 1964 from SE Victoria are transferred to Batrachomatus. The four Australian Matini species known so far are re-described, and B. larsoni sp. n. from the Windsor Tableland in NE Queensland is described. After more than 40 years B. wilsoni has been re-discovered in two rivers in Victoria. We delineate the species using traditionally employed morphological structures such as in the male genitalia and body size, shape and colour pattern, as well as mitochondrial cox1 sequence data for 20 individuals. Important species characters (median lobes, parameres and colour patterns) were illustrated. We provide an identification key and outline distribution and habitat preferences of each species. All Australian Matini are lotic, inhabiting permanent and intermittent streams, creeks and rivers.
["Allomatus"]

A specialist’s audit of aggregated occurrence records
Occurrence records for named, native Australian millipedes from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and the Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) were compared with the same records from the Millipedes of Australia (MoA) website, compiled independently by the author. The comparison revealed some previously unnoticed errors in MoA, and a much larger number of errors and other problems in the aggregated datasets. Errors have been corrected in MoA and in some data providers’ databases, but will remain in GBIF and ALA until data providers have supplied updates to these aggregators. An audit by a specialist volunteer, as reported here, is not a common occurrence. It is suggested that aggregators should do more, or more effective, data checking and should query data providers when possible errors are detected, rather than simply disclaim responsibility for aggregated content.
["Data Quality and Management", "Research Data Management Practices"]

Systematics of the parasitic wasp genus Oxyscelio Kieffer (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae s.l.), Part I: Indo-Malayan and Palearctic fauna
The Indo-Malayan and Palearctic species of Oxyscelio (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae s.l.) are revised. A total of 90 species are recognized as valid, 19 of which are redescribed - O. acutiventris (Kieffer), O. brevinervis (Kieffer), O. carinatus (Kieffer), O. ceylonensis (Dodd), O. consobrinus (Kieffer), O. crassicornis (Kieffer), O. cupularis (Kieffer), O. dorsalis (Kieffer), O. excavatus (Kieffer), O. flavipennis (Kieffer), O. florus Kononova, O. foveatus Kieffer, O. kiefferi Dodd, O. magnus (Kieffer), O. marginalis (Kieffer), O. naraws Kozlov & Lê, O. perpensus Kononova, O. rugosus (Kieffer) and O. spinosiceps (Kieffer), and 71 which are described as new - O. aclavae Burks, sp. n., O. amrichae Burks, sp. n., O. anguli Burks, sp. n., O. angustifrons Burks, sp. n., O. angustinubbin Burks, sp. n., O. arcus Burks, sp. n., O. arvi Burks, sp. n., O. asperi Burks, sp. n., O. aureamediocritas Burks, sp. n., O. bipunctuum Burks, sp. n., O. brevidentis Burks, sp. n., O. caesitas Burks, sp. n., O. capilli Burks, sp. n., O. capitis Burks, sp. n., O. cavinetrion Burks, sp. n., O. chimaerae Burks, sp. n., O. codae Burks, sp. n., O. convergens Burks, sp. n., O. cordis Burks, sp. n., O. crateris Burks, sp. n., O. crebritas Burks, sp. n., O. crustum Burks, sp. n., O. cuculli Burks, sp. n., O. cyrtomesos Burks, sp. n., O. dasymesos Burks, sp. n., O. dasynoton Burks, sp. n., O. dermatoglyphes Burks, sp. n., O. doumao Burks, sp. n., O. fistulae Burks, sp. n., O. flabellae Burks, sp. n., O. flaviventris Burks, sp. n., O. fodiens Burks, sp. n., O. fossarum Burks, sp. n., O. fossularum Burks, sp. n., O. genae Burks, sp. n., O. granorum Burks, sp. n., O. granuli Burks, sp. n., O. greenacus Burks, sp. n., O. halmaherae Burks, sp. n., O. intermedietas Burks, sp. n., O. jaune Burks, sp. n., O. jugi Burks, sp. n., O. kramatos Burks, sp. n., O. labis Burks, sp. n., O. lacunae Burks, sp. n., O. latinubbin Burks, sp. n., O. latitudinis Burks, sp. n., O. limae Burks, sp. n., O. longiventris Burks, sp. n., O. mesiodentis Burks, sp. n., O. mollitia Burks, sp. n., O. nasolabii Burks, sp. n., O. nodorum Burks, sp. n., O. noduli Burks, sp. n., O. nubbin Burks, sp. n., O. obsidiani Burks, sp. n., O. ogive Burks, sp. n., O. operimenti Burks, sp. n., O. peludo Burks, sp. n., O. planocarinae Burks, sp. n., O. praecipitis Burks, sp. n., O. reflectens Burks, sp. n., O. regionis Burks, sp. n., O. sinuum Burks, sp. n., O. spinae Burks, sp. n., O. striarum Burks, sp. n., O. tecti Burks, sp. n., O. unguis Burks, sp. n., O. vadorum Burks, sp. n., O. vittae Burks, sp. n. and O. zeuctomesos. Neotypes are designated for nine species, including the type species O. foveatus Kieffer, O. brevinervis (Kieffer), O. bifurcatus (Kieffer), O. frontalis (Kieffer), O. crassicornis (Kieffer), O. cupularis (Kieffer), O. foveatus Kieffer, O. kiefferi Dodd, O. magnus (Kieffer) and O. marginalis (Kieffer). Oxyscelio bifurcatus (Kieffer) syn. n. and O. frontalis (Kieffer) syn. n. are synonymized under Oxyscelio consobrinus (Kieffer). The fauna is divided into 13 species groups, with six species unplaced to a group. A phylogenetic analysis employing 73 morphological characters did not find most of these groups to be monophyletic, but they are retained to aid in specimen identification. Potential biogeographical patterns are discussed, including regional variation in surface sculpture and a morphological link between Sri Lankan and Australian species.

Corrigenda: Short M, Huynh C (2013) Four new species of Unixenus Jones, 1944 (Diplopoda, Penicillata, Polyxenida) from Australia. ZooKeys 278: 75–90, doi: 10.3897/zookeys.278.4765
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Phylogenetic systematics of Schacontia Dyar with descriptions of eight new species (Lepidoptera, Crambidae)
The Neotropical genus Schacontia Dyar (1914) is reviewed and revised to include eleven species. Schacontia replica Dyar, 1914, syn. n. and S. pfeifferi Amsel, 1956, syn. n. are synonymized with S. chanesalis (Druce, 1899) and eight new species are described: Schacontia umbra, sp. n., S. speciosa, sp. n., S. themis, sp. n., S. rasa, sp. n., S. nyx, sp. n., S. clotho, sp. n., S. lachesis, sp. n., and S. atropos, sp. n. Three species, S. medalba, S. chanesalis, and S. ysticalis, are re-described. An analysis of 64 characters (56 binary, 8 multistate; 5 head, 13 thoracic, 13 abdominal, 25 male genitalic, and 8 female genitalic) scored for all Schacontia and three outgroup species (Eustixia pupula Hübner, 1823, Glaphyria sesquistrialis Hübner, 1823, and Hellula undalis (Fabricius, 1781)) retrieved 8 equally most parsimonious trees (L=102, CI=71, RI=84) of which the strict consensus is: [[[[medalba + umbra] + chanesalis] + speciosa] + [ysticalis + [rasa + themis + [atropos + lachesis + nyx + clotho]]]]. The relevance of male secondary sexual characters to the diagnosis of Schacontia species is discussed.
["Schacontia"]

A new Brazilian Passiflora leafminer: Spinivalva gaucha, gen. n., sp. n. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Gracillariinae), the first gracillariid without a sap-feeding instar
Male, female, pupa, larva and egg of a new genus and species of Gracillariidae (Gracillariinae), Spinivalva gaucha Moreira and Vargas from southern Brazil are described and illustrated with the aid of optical and scanning electron microscopy. A preliminary analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences including members of related lineages is also provided. The immature stages are associated with Passiflora actinia, P. misera and P. suberosa (Passifloraceae), and build mines on the adaxial leaf surface. Initially the mines are serpentine in shape, but later in larval ontogeny become a blotch type. Although the larvae are hypermetamorphic as in other Gracillariidae, there is no sap-feeding instar in S. gaucha; the larva feeds on the palisade parenchyma, thus producing granular frass during all instars. Pupation occurs outside the mine; prior to pupating, the larva excretes numerous bubbles that are placed in rows on the lateral margins of the cocoon external surface. This is the second genus of gracillariid moth described for the Atlantic Rain Forest, and the second gracillariid species known to be associated with Passifloraceae.
["Atlantic Rain Forest"]

Chinese species of the genus Aptesis Förster (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) parasitizing sawflies, with descriptions of three new species and a key to species
Six species of the genus Aptesis Förster 1850 belonging to the tribe Hemigastrini of the subfamily Cryptinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) are reported from China. Three of them, A. elongata Li & Sheng, sp.n., A. melana Li & Sheng, sp. n. and A. nigricoxa Li & Sheng, sp. n. reared from sawflies in China, are new to science. The biology of A. melana is described. A key to the species of Aptesis known from China is provided.
["Aptesis"]

Three new species of Bolbochromus Boucomont (Coleoptera, Geotrupidae, Bolboceratinae) from Southeast Asia
Three new species of the Oriental bolboceratine genus Bolbochromus Boucomont 1909, Bolbochromus minutus Li and Krikken, sp. n. (Thailand), Bolbochromus nomurai Li and Krikken, sp. n. (Vietnam), and Bolbochromus malayensis Li and Krikken, sp. n. (Malaysia), are described from continental Southeast Asia with diagnoses, distributions, remarks and illustrations. The genus is discussed with emphasis on continental Southeast Asia. A key to species known from Indochina and Malay Penisula is presented. An annotated checklist of Bolbochromus species is presented.
["Bolbochromus"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Two new species of Neoperla (Plecoptera, Perlidae) from China
Two species of the genus Neoperla from China are described as new: Neoperla furcostyla sp. n., and N. similidella sp. n. The new species are compared to similar taxa.
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Environmental Science and Water Management", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A review of the Western Australian keeled millipede genus Boreohesperus (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
A taxonomic review of the endemic Western Australian millipede genus Boreohesperus Shear is presented in which six species are recognized: the type species, B. capensis Shear, 1992, from North-West Cape, one new species, B. dubitalis, from Barrow Island and four more new species from the Pilbara region, B. curiosus, B. delicatus, B. furcosus and B. undulatus. All six species have highly localized distributions, consistent with being short-range endemics. The nomenclature of the branches of the male gonopod is revised.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

An opiine Braconidae (Hymenoptera) reared from Richardiidae (Diptera) and recognition of a new species group of Opius s. l.
A new species of opiine Braconidae, Opius rojam Daniels and Wharton, is described from Trinidad. The description is based in part on two individuals reared from Sepsisoma erythrocephalum infesting shoots of the grass Paspalum fasciculatum. This is the first record of members of the Opiinae attacking species in the dipteran family Richardiidae. The Opius ingenticornis species group is proposed and delineated to accommodate this and several putatively related species formerly included in Opius (Merotrachys), Opius (Pendopius), and Opius (Ilicopius). A key to the species of this group is provided. Descriptions and diagnoses are referenced to the Hymenoptera Anatomy Ontology.
["parasitoid"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new species of Tarsonops (Araneae, Caponiidae) from southern Belize, with a key to the genera of the subfamily Nopinae
A new species of Caponiidae, Tarsonops irataylori sp. n. is described from southern Belize, and a key to the genera of the subfamily Nopinae is provided.
["Spider"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Notes on black elytron species of Pyrrhalta Joannis and the description of a new species from China (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae)
Thirteen species of Pyrrhalta Joannis, 1865 with black elytron are reviewed. A key to species, photographs of aedeagus and habitus are provided. Pyrrhalta qianana sp. n. is described from Guizhou, China. Pyrrhalta martensi Medvedev et Sprecher-Uebersax, 1999 is newly recorded from China (Tibet).

New taxonomic data on the genus Ypsolopha Latreille (Lepidoptera, Ypsolophidae) with descriptions of two new species from the Russian Far East
Two new species of the genus Ypsolopha Latreille, 1796 are described from Far East of Russia: Ypsolopha melanofuscella sp. n. and Y. straminella sp. n. Two new synomymies are proposed: Y. ulingensis Yang, 1977, a new junior synonym of Y. costibasella (Caradja, 1939); and Cerostoma falculella Erschoff, 1877, a new junior synonym of Y. asperella Linnaeus, 1761. The species Y. costibasella Caradja, 1939, Y. nigrofasciata Yang, 1977 and Y. nigrimaculata Byun et Park, 2001 are recorded from Far East of Russia for the first time. The male genitalia of Y. nigrofasciata are described and illustrated for the first time, diagnostic genital characters are given.

A new non-naked species of Ptychostomella (Gastrotricha) from Brazil
A new species of marine Gastrotricha from Brazil is described and discussed. Ptychostomella lamelliphora sp. n. is one of the several new taxa that were found during an extensive survey of the gastrotrich fauna carried out in 2002 and 2003 along the coastline of the State of São Paulo. The new species is unique in that it possesses cuticular ornamentations in the form of plate-like structures (scales) along the lateral borders of the body and two massive clusters of densely packed adhesive tubes on the ventral surface, near the ano-genital opening. Both these features appear to be adaptations to challenge the high energy waters that characterize the species’ microhabitat: the coarse sublittoral sand in the channel between the mainland and the largest island in the State, Ihlabela. Additionally, a key to the described Ptychostomella species of the world is provided.
["Gastrotrichs"]

A new species of sublittoral marine gastrotrich, Lepidodasys ligni sp. n. (Macrodasyida, Lepidodasyidae), from the Atlantic coast of Florida
A new species of Lepidodasys is described from sublittoral sandy sediments off the Atlantic coast of Florida. Lepidodasys ligni sp. n. is a small species (≤ 450 µm) with a crossed-helical pattern of small, non-keeled, non-imbricated scales on the dorsal and lateral body surfaces, two columns of ventral, interciliary scales that form a herringbone pattern, and a series of anterior, lateral, dorsal and posterior adhesive tubes. Similar to L. castoroides from the Faroe Islands, the new species possesses a caudal constriction that demarcates the posterior end containing the caudal organ. The frontal organ lies within the posterior constriction, which is heavily invested with somatic circular muscles. These muscles are also present throughout the trunk and represent a novel condition for species of Lepidodasys, which were previously considered to lack somatic circular muscles. Posterior of the caudal constriction is a large, barrel-shaped caudal organ that is wrapped in a series of interdigitating, spindle-shaped, incomplete circular muscle fibers. The caudal organ contains a sclerotized central canal, but the absence of distal cuticular endpieces distinguishes the new species from its morphologically similar congener, L. castoroides.
["meiofauna"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Generic revision and species classification of the Microdontinae (Diptera, Syrphidae)
With 552 species group names available (excluding misspellings), the Microdontinae constitute the smallest of the three subfamilies of Syrphidae. Paradoxically, this subfamily is taxonomically the least organized of the three: 388 species names were previously classified in a single genus, Microdon Meigen, 1803. The present paper introduces a new generic classification of the Microdontinae, relying partly on the results of phylogenetic analyses of morphological and molecular data as published in other papers, and partly on examination of primary type specimens of 347 taxa, plus additional material, and original descriptions. A total number of 67 genus group names (excluding misspellings) are evaluated, redescribed, diagnosed and discussed, with several implications for their taxonomic status. Of these, 43 names are considered as valid genera, 7 as subgenera, 17 as synonyms. Two generic names (Ceratoconcha Simroth, 1907, Nothomicrodon Wheeler, 1924) are left unplaced, because they are known from immature stages only and cannot be reliably associated with taxa known from adults. The following 10 new genera are described by Reemer: Domodon, Heliodon, Laetodon, Menidon, Mermerizon, Metadon, Peradon, Piruwa, Sulcodon and Thompsodon. A key to all genera, subgenera and species groups is given. A total number of 26 new species are described in the following genera: Archimicrodon Hull, 1945, Ceratrichomyia Séguy, 1951, Domodon, Furcantenna Cheng, 2008, Heliodon, Indascia Keiser, 1958, Kryptopyga Hull, 1944, Masarygus Brèthes. 1908, Mermerizon, Metadon, Microdon, Paramixogaster Brunetti, 1923, Piruwa, Pseudomicrodon Hull, 1937, Rhopalosyrphus Giglio-Tos, 1891, and Thompsodon. New lectotypes are designated for Ceratrichomyia behara Séguy, 1951 and Microdon iheringi Bezzi, 1910. A total number of 267 new combinations of species and genera are proposed. New synonyms are proposed for 19 species group names. Three replacement names are introduced for primary and secondary junior homonyms: Microdon shirakii nom. n. (= Microdon tuberculatus Shiraki, 1968, primary homonym of Microdon tuberculatus de Meijere, 1913), Paramixogaster brunettii nom. n. (= Mixogaster vespiformis Brunetti, 1913, secondary homonym of Microdon vespiformis de Meijere, 1908), Paramixogaster sacki nom. n. (= Myxogaster variegata Sack, 1922, secondary homonym of Ceratophya variegata Walker, 1852). An attempt is made to classify all available species names into (sub)genera and species groups. The resulting classification comprises 454 valid species and 98 synonyms (excluding misspellings), of which 17 valid names and three synonyms are left unplaced. The paper concludes with a discussion on diagnostic characters of Microdontinae.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Bartonella species infections research"]

The New Caledonian genus Caledonotrichia Sykora (Trichoptera, Insecta) reviewed, with descriptions of 6 new species
The New Caledonian endemic hydroptilid genus Caledonotrichia Sykora (Trichoptera) is reviewed and 6 new species are described: C. bifida, C. capensis, C. minuta, C. ouinnica, C. sykorai and C. vexilla. Together with the established species for which revised diagnoses are given, these raise to 11 the number of species known in this genus. The new species, females of 3 species, and several unusual larval cases are examined and described for further insight into relationships of this enigmatic genus. A key to species is provided.
["Spicipalpia"]

Three new species of the carnivorous snail genus Perrottetia Kobelt, 1905 from Thailand (Pulmonata, Streptaxidae)
Three new species of the streptaxid snail genus Perrottetia are described from north and northeastern Thailand, Perrottetia aquilonaria sp. n., P. dermapyrrhosa sp. n. and P. phuphamanensis sp. n. Each species is endemic to a single or a few limestone mountain ranges. The species are characterized by the morphology of their genital organs, as well as by shell characters. Perrottetia aquilonaria sp. n. has a club shaped distal penis and large penial hooks are present and penial papillae cover almost the entire penial hook portion; adjacent areas possess low reticulated folds. Perrottetia dermapyrrhosa sp. n. has a long genital atrium and the penial sheath is about two-thirds of the penis length. Penial hooks are long, scattered and sunken into deep ovate hollows; vaginal hooks are present. Perrottetia phuphamanensis sp. n. has a rounded and protruded shell periphery. The aperture is subcircular, peristome is thick and the second parietal lamella is adjacent to the first parietal lamella; a basal lamella is the smaller than in the other Thai species.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Taxonomic revision of the Elephant Pupinid snail genus Pollicaria Gould, 1856 (Prosobranchia, Pupinidae)
The status of species currently assigned to the Southeast Asian Elephant Pupinid snail genus Pollicaria Gould, 1856 is reassessed. Shell, radular and reproductive morphology are investigated and analysed with reference to karyotype patterns previously reported and to distribution patterns among the species. Six previously described species are recognised: P. gravida (Benson, 1856), P. myersii (Haines, 1855), P. mouhoti (Pfeiffer, 1862), P. elephas (Morgan, 1885), P. crossei (Dautzenberg & d’Hamonville, 1887) and P. rochebruni (Mabille, 1887). A new subspecies, P. mouhoti monochroma ssp. n., is proposed and a dichotomous key to species is provided.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

A new species of Metacyclops Kiefer, 1927 (Copepoda, Cyclopidae, Cyclopinae) from the Chihuahuan desert, northern Mexico
A new species of the freshwater cyclopoid copepod genus Metacyclops Kiefer, 1927 is described from a single pond in northern Mexico, within the binational area known as the Chihuahuan Desert. This species belongs to a group of Metacyclops species with a 3443 spine formula of swimming legs. It is morphologically similar to Metacyclops lusitanus Lindberg, 1961 but differs from this and other congeners bya unique combination of characters, including a caudal rami length/width proportion of 3.5–3.8, a innermost terminal seta slightly longer than the outermost terminal seta, intercoxal sclerites of legs 1-4 naked, a strong apical spine of the second endopodal segment of leg 1 and one row of 6-8 small spinules at the insertion of this spine. The finding of this species represents also the first record of the genus in Mexico and the third in North America, where only two other species, M. gracilis (Lilljeborg, 1853) and M. cushae Reid, 1991 have been hitherto reported. This is also the first continental record of a species of Metacyclops from an arid environment in the Americas. This species appears to be endemic to the Chihuahuan Desert, thus emphasizing the high endemicity of this area.
["Arid environments"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Revision of Sternaspis Otto, 1821 (Polychaeta, Sternaspidae)
Sternaspid polychaetes are common and often abundant in soft bottoms in the world oceans. Some authors suggest that only one species should be recognized, whereas others regard a few species as widely distributed in many seas and variable depths from the low intertidal to about 4400 m. There are some problems with species delineation and the distinctive ventro-caudal shield has been disregarded or barely used for identifying species. In order to clarify these issues, the ventral shield is evaluated in specimens from the same locality and its diagnostic potential is confirmed. On this basis, a revision of Sternaspis Otto, 1821 (Polychaeta: Sternaspidae) is presented based upon type materials, or material collected from type localities. The sternaspid body, introvert hooks and shield show three distinct patterns, two genera have seven abdominal segments and tapered introvert hooks, and one genus has eight abdominal segments and spatulate introvert hooks. The ventro-caudal shield has three different patterns: stiff with ribs, and sometimes concentric lines, stiff with feebly-defined ribs but no concentric lines, and soft with firmly adhered sediment particles. Sternaspis is restricted to include species with seven abdominal segments, falcate introvert hooks, and stiff shields, often exhibiting radial ribs, concentric lines or both. Sternaspis includes, besides the type species, S. thalassemoides Otto, 1821 from the Mediterranean Sea, S. affinis Stimpson, 1864 from the Northeastern Pacific, S. africana Augener, 1918, stat. n. from Western Africa, S. andamanensis sp. n. from the Andaman Sea, S. costata von Marenzeller, 1879 from Japan, S. fossor Stimpson, 1853 from the Northwestern Atlantic, S. islandica Malmgren, 1867 from Iceland, S. maior Chamberlin, 1919 from the Gulf of California, S. princeps Selenka, 1885 from New Zealand, S. rietschi Caullery, 1944 from abyssal depths around Indonesia, S. scutata (Ranzani, 1817) from the Mediterranean Sea, S. spinosa Sluiter, 1882 from Indonesia, and S. thorsoni sp. n. from the Iranian Gulf. Two genera are newly proposed to incorporate the remaining species: Caulleryaspis and Petersenaspis. Caulleryaspis gen. n. is defined by the presence of falcate introvert hooks, seven abdominal segments, and soft shields with sediment particles firmly adhered on them; it includes two species: C. gudmundssoni sp. n. from Iceland and C. laevis (Caullery, 1944) comb. n. from Indonesia. Petersenaspis gen. n. is defined by the presence of spatulate introvert hooks, eight abdominal segments, and stiff shields with poorly defined ribs but no concentric line; it includes P. capillata (Nonato, 1966) from Brazil and P. palpallatoci sp. n. from the Philippines. Neotypes are proposed for eight species: S. thalassemoides, S. affinis, S. africana, S. costata, S. fossor, S. maior, S. scutata and S. spinosa, to stabilize these species-group names, and a lectotype is designated for S. laevis which is transferred to Caulleryaspis gen. n. The geographic range of most species appears to be much smaller than previously indicated, and for some species additional material in good condition is needed to clarify their distributions. Keys to genera and to all species are also included.
["Widespread species"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A new genus for a rare African vespertilionid bat: insights from South Sudan
A new genus is proposed for the strikingly patterned African vespertilionid “Glauconycteris” superba Hayman, 1939 on the basis of cranial and external morphological comparisons. A review of the attributes of a newly collected specimen from South Sudan (a new country record) and other museum specimens of “G.” superba suggests that “G.” superba is markedly distinct ecomorphologically from other species classified in Glauconycteris and is likely the sister taxon to Glauconycteris sensu stricto. The recent capture of this rarely collected but widespread bat highlights the need for continued research in tropical sub-Saharan Africa and in particular, for more work in western South Sudan, which has received very little scientific attention. New country records for G. cf. poensis (South Sudan) and G. curryae (Gabon) are also reported.
["Glauconycteris superba"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Genus Promalactis Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Oecophoridae) from China: Descriptions of twelve new species
Sixteen species of the genus Promalactis Meyrick, 1908 from China are described. Among them, twelve species are described as new: P. bifurciprocessa sp. n., P. convexa sp. n., P. papillata sp. n., P. quadratitabularis sp. n., P. quadriloba sp. n., P. ramispinea sp. n., P. scorpioidea sp. n., P. serpenticapitata sp. n., P. similiconvexa sp. n., P. spinosicornuta sp. n., P. strumifera sp. n. and P. uncinispinea sp. n.; the previously unknown male of P. dimolybda Meyrick, 1935 and female of P. flavescens Wang, Zheng & Li, 1997 are described for the first time; P. albipunctata Park & Park, 1998 and P. dierli Lvovsky, 2000 are newly recorded for China. Adults and genitalia are illustrated.

Earthworms newly from Mongolia (Oligochaeta, Lumbricidae, Eisenia)
Two new megadrile earthworms from the steppes, the first species wholly from Outer Mongolia, are ascribed to the partially parthenogenetic Eisenia nordenskioldi (Eisen, 1879) species-complex. Taxonomic justification of sympatric Eisenia nordenskioldi mongol and E. nordenskioldi onon ssp. n. are supported by mtDNA COI barcodes. The unreliability of molecular differentiation based on voucher names compared to definitive types is again demonstrated, as pertains to the ultimate Eisenia andrei Bouché, 1972 synonym of the E. fetida (Savigny, 1826) sibling species-complex composed of more than a dozen prior names. Similar species described from Northeast China [formerly Manchuria] and North Korea are briefly considered, albeit they are intermittently held in synonymy of cosmopolitan Aporrectodea rosea (Savigny, 1826) along with many other taxa including some exotic lumbricids initially found in India. Japanese and North American lumbricids are also mentioned. Distributions are discussed and an annotated checklist of all nine Siberian/sub-arctic E. nordenskioldi ssp. is appended.
["Far eastern Asian biodiversity"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Taxonomic synopsis of the subtribe Physoderina (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini), with species revisions of eight genera
Ten genera of Physoderina from the Oriental Region are diagnosed and described, and twenty six species representing eight genera (Paraphaea Bates, Anchista Nietner, Metallanchista gen. n., Diamella nom. n., Allocota Motschulsky, Orionella Jedlička, Endynomena Chaudoir and Dasiosoma Britton (Oriental species only)) are revised. Keys to genera and species are provided, along with distribution maps, habitus images, photographs of the name-bearing types, and illustrations of male and female genitalia of available species. The female internal reproductive system is illustrated for fourteen species. Two genera, Anchista and Taicona, previously placed in Calleidina, are moved into Physoderina. One new genus is described: Metallanchista, gen. n. (type species M. laticollis, sp. n.). Two new generic synonyms are proposed: Taicona Bates, 1873, junior synonym of Allocota Motschulsky, 1859; Teradaia Habu, 1979a, junior synonym of Dasiosoma Britton, 1937. A new generic replacement name is proposed: Diamella, nom. n. for Dianella Jedlička, 1952 (junior homonym of Dianella Gude, 1913). The status of Paraphaea Bates, 1873 is resurrected from synonym of Anchista Nietner, 1856. Five new species are described: Paraphaea minor Shi & Liang, sp. n. (Hoa-Binh, Tonkin, Vietnam), Anchista pilosa Shi & Liang, sp. n. (Chikkangalur, Bangalore, India), Metallanchista laticollis Shi & Liang, sp. n. (PhaTo env., Chumphon prov., Thailand), Allocota bicolor Shi & Liang, sp. n. (Dengga to Mafengshan, Ruili, Yunnan, China), Dasiosoma quadraticolle Shi & Liang, sp. n. (Menglun Botanical Garden, Yunnan, China). Fourteen new combinations are proposed: Paraphaea binotata (Dejean, 1825), comb. n. from Anchista; Paraphaea formosana (Jedlička, 1946), comb. n. from Anchista; Paraphaea philippinensis (Jedlička, 1935b), comb. n. from Allocota; Metallanchista perlaeta (Kirschenhofer, 1994), comb. n. from Allocota; Physodera andrewesi (Jedlička, 1934), comb. n. from Allocota; Diamella cupreomicans (Oberthür, 1883), comb. n. from Physodera; Diamella arrowi (Jedlička, 1935a), comb. n. from Allocota; Allocota aurata (Bates, 1873), comb. n. from Taicona; Dasiosoma bellum (Habu, 1979a), comb. n. from Teradaia; Dasiosoma indicum (Kirschenhofer, 2011), comb. n. from Dianella; Dasiosoma maindroni (Tian & Deuve, 2001), comb. n. from Lachnoderma; Dasiosoma hirsutum (Bates, 1873), comb. n. from Lachnoderma; Orionella discoidalis (Bates, 1892), comb. n. from Anchista; Orionella kathmanduensis (Kirschenhofer, 1994), comb. n. from Lachnoderma. Five names are newly placed as junior synonyms: Paraphaea eurydera (Chaudoir, 1877), junior synonym of Paraphaea binotata (Dejean, 1825); Anchista glabra Chaudoir, 1877, and Anchista nepalensis Kirschenhofer, 1994, junior synonyms of Anchista fenestrata (Schmidt-Göbel, 1846); Allocota caerulea Andrewes, 1933, junior synonym of Allocota viridipennis Motschulsky, 1859; Allocota perroti (Jedlička, 1963), junior synonym of Allocota aurata (Bates, 1873). One new replacement name is proposed: Dasiosoma basilewskyi, nom. n. for Dasiosoma hirsutum Basilewsky, 1949 (secondary junior homonym of Dasiosoma hirsutum (Bates, 1892)). One species is downgraded to subspecies rank: Anchista fenestrata subpubescens Chaudoir, 1877, new rank.
["Oriental Region"]

A new species of Megachile Latreille subgenus Megachiloides (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)
A new species of leafcutter bee, Megachile (Megachiloides) chomskyi, is described from Texas, United States. Megachile chomskyi is one of the four known species of the oenotherae species group of Megachiloides, all members sharing the long tongue, and is most similar to M. (Megachiloides) amica Cresson. Like other members of the oenotherae species group, this species probably shows oligolecty with Onagraceae (Evening-Primrose Family). A diagnosis, full description of both sexes and a key to the species of the oenotherae species group are provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New taxa and revisionary systematics of alcyonacean octocorals from the Pacific coast of North America (Cnidaria, Anthozoa)
A taxonomic assessment of four species of octocorals from the northeastern Pacific Ocean (British Columbia to California) is provided. Included here are a new species of clavulariid stolonifieran Cryptophyton, a new species of the nephtheid soft coral Gersemia, an undetermined species of soft coral in the genus Alcyonium that has been referred in the literature by several other names, and a new genus is named for a plexaurid sea fan originally described in the Indo-Pacific genus Euplexaura. Discussions are included that compare the species to related taxa, or provide revisionary assessments.
["Alcyonium"]

“First” abyssal record of Stenosemus exaratus (G.O. Sars, 1878) (Mollusca, Polyplacophora) in the North-Atlantic Ocean
The first proven abyssal record of Stenosemus exaratus (G.O. Sars, 1878) is presented on the basis of an ROV study in the Irish Sea. For the first time in situ images of the species and data on the environmental parameters are provided.
["Deep-sea"]

A new species of Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 (Scorpiones, Euscorpiidae) from Marmara Region of Turkey
A new species of the genus Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 is described based on specimens collected from Bursa Province, in Marmara Region of Turkey. It is characterized by a mesotrichous trichobothrial pattern (Pv= 8, et= 6, em=4, eb= 4), medium size and light coloration. Euscorpius (Euscorpius) rahsenae sp. n. is the second species of the subgenus Euscorpius recognized in Turkey.
["Scorpion"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Biochemical and Structural Characterization"]

A new freshwater snail genus (Hydrobiidae, Gastropoda) from Montenegro, with a discussion on gastropod diversity and endemism in Skadar Lake
Karucia sublacustrina a new species of freshwater snails (Hydrobiidae, Gastropoda) is described based on material collected from Skadar Lake (Montenegro, Albania). The new species belongs to monotypic genus Karucia gen. n. The shell morphology and body shape of the new genus resembles Radomaniola Szarowska, 2006 and Grossuana Radoman, 1973, from which it differs in the larger shells with relatively slim and a slightly, but clearly shouldered body whorl. The number of gastropods from Skadar Lake basin tallies now 50 species. The adjusted rate of gastropod endemicity for Skadar Lake basin is estimated to be 38%. By compiling faunal and taxonomic data we also aim to provide information of relevance as to conservation efforts.
["Skadar Lake"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

An overview of the Mediterranean cave-dwelling horny sponges (Porifera, Demospongiae)
The present synthesis focuses on the so called ‘horny sponges’ recorded from marine caves of the Mediterranean Sea. The main aim is to provide a list of all recorded species, diagnostic keys to their identification up to family and genus level, and exhaustive, formally uniform descriptions at the species level contributing to sharing of information on the faunistics and taxonomy of Mediterranean cave-dwelling species, including habitat preferences. The majority of species was recorded in 105 Mediterranean marine caves hosting four orders of horny sponges belonging to 9 families, 19 genera and 40 species. Species endemic to the Mediterranean Sea harboured in marine caves are 14 with an endemicity value of 35%. For each species morphological descriptions are supported by illustrations both original and from the literature, including the diagnostic traits of the skeleton by light and scanning electron microscopy giving further characterization at the specific level. A detailed map together with a list of all caves harbouring horny sponges is also provided with geographic coordinates.
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

One hundred and one new species of Trigonopterus weevils from New Guinea
A species discovery and description pipeline to accelerate and improve taxonomy is outlined, relying on concise expert descriptions, combined with DNA sequencing, digital imaging, and automated wiki species page creation from the journal. One hundred and one new species of Trigonopterus Fauvel, 1862 are described to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach: T. aeneipennis sp. n., T. aeneus sp. n., T. agathis sp. n., T. agilis sp. n., T. amplipennis sp. n., T. ancoruncus sp. n., T. angulatus sp. n., T. angustus sp. n., T. apicalis sp. n., T. armatus sp. n., T. ascendens sp. n., T. augur sp. n., T. balimensis sp. n., T. basalis sp. n., T. conformis sp. n., T. constrictus sp. n., T. costatus sp. n., T. costicollis sp. n., T. crassicornis sp. n., T. cuneipennis sp. n., T. cyclopensis sp. n., T. dentirostris sp. n., T. discoidalis sp. n., T. dromedarius sp. n., T. durus sp. n., T. echinus sp. n., T. edaphus sp. n., T. eremitus sp. n., T. euops sp. n., T. ferrugineus sp. n., T. fusiformis sp. n., T. glaber sp. n., T. gonatoceros sp. n., T. granum sp. n., T. helios sp. n., T. hitoloorum sp. n., T. imitatus sp. n., T. inflatus sp. n., T. insularis sp. n., T. irregularis sp. n., T. ixodiformis sp. n., T. kanawiorum sp. n., T. katayoi sp. n., T. koveorum sp. n., T. kurulu sp. n., T. lekiorum sp. n., T. lineatus sp. n., T. lineellus sp. n., T. maculatus sp. n., T. mimicus sp. n., T. monticola sp. n., T. montivagus sp. n., T. moreaorum sp. n., T. myops sp. n., T. nangiorum sp. n., T. nothofagorum sp. n., T. ovatus sp. n., T. oviformis sp. n., T. parumsquamosus sp. n., T. parvulus sp. n., T. phoenix sp. n., T. plicicollis sp. n., T. politoides sp. n., T. pseudogranum sp. n., T. pseudonasutus sp. n., T. ptolycoides sp. n., T. punctulatus sp. n., T. ragaorum sp. n., T. rhinoceros sp. n., T. rhomboidalis sp. n., T. rubiginosus sp. n., T. rubripennis sp. n., T. rufibasis sp. n., T. scabrosus sp. n., T. scissops sp. n., T. scharfi sp. n., T. signicollis sp. n., T. simulans sp. n., T. soiorum sp. n., T sordidus sp. n., T. squamirostris sp. n., T. striatus sp. n., T. strigatus sp. n., T. strombosceroides sp. n., T. subglabratus sp. n., T. sulcatus sp. n., T. taenzleri sp. n., T. talpa sp. n., T. taurekaorum sp. n., T. tialeorum sp. n., T. tibialis sp. n., T. tridentatus sp. n., T. uniformis sp. n., T. variabilis sp. n., T. velaris sp. n., T. verrucosus sp. n., T. violaceus sp. n., T. viridescens sp. n., T. wamenaensis sp. n., T. wariorum sp. n., T. zygops sp. n.. All new species are authored by the taxonomist-in-charge, Alexander Riedel.
["Melanesia"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Corrigenda: Mullins PL, Kawada R, Balhoff JP, Deans AR (2012) A revision of Evaniscus (Hymenoptera, Evaniidae) using ontology-based semantic phenotype annotation. ZooKeys 223: 1–38, doi: 10.3897/zookeys.223.3572
Several errors came to our attention after our manuscript was published, which we address here.
["corrigenda"]

Four new species of Unixenus Jones, 1944 (Diplopoda, Penicillata, Polyxenida) from Australia
Unixenus carnarvonensis sp. n., U. corringlensis sp. n., U. barrabaensis sp. n. and U. myallensis sp. n. are described from Australia. A revised diagnosis of U. karajinensis and new details on the distribution of the species are given. A key is presented to 10 of all 11 currently known species of the genus.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Cockroaches of genus Muzoa: morphology of the male genital sclerites and description of one new species (Dictyoptera, Blattodea, Ectobiidae, Nyctiborinae)
The male genital sclerites of cockroaches of genus Muzoa Hebard, 1921 are described for first time and the new species Muzoa curtalata sp. n. is described and ilustrated. A dichotomous key to identify the species of genus Muzoa is given.

Alien molluscan species established along the Italian shores: an update, with discussions on some Mediterranean “alien species” categories
The state of knowledge of the alien marine Mollusca in Italy is reviewed and updated. Littorina saxatilis (Olivi, 1792), Polycera hedgpethi Er. Marcus, 1964 and Haminoea japonica Pilsbry, 1895 are here considered as established on the basis of published and unpublished data, and recent records of the latter considerably expand its known Mediterranean range to the Tyrrhenian Sea. COI sequences obtained indicate that a comprehensive survey of additional European localities is needed to elucidate the dispersal pathways of H. japonica. Recent records and interpretation of several molluscan taxa as alien are discussed both in light of new Mediterranean (published and unpublished) records and of four categories previously excluded from alien species lists. Within this framework, ten taxa are no longer considered as alien species, or their records from Italy are refuted. Furthermore, Trochocochlea castriotae Bellini, 1903 is considered a new synonym for Gibbula albida (Gmelin, 1791). Data provided here leave unchanged as 35 the number of alien molluscan taxa recorded from Italy as well as the percentage of the most plausible vectors of introduction, but raise to 22 the number of established species along the Italian shores during the 2005–2010 period, and backdate to 1792 the first introduction of an alien molluscan species (L. saxatilis) to the Italian shores.
["Alien Mollusca"]

Two sympatric new species of woodlizards (Hoplocercinae, Enyalioides) from Cordillera Azul National Park in northeastern Peru
We report the discovery of two sympatric new species of Enyalioides from a montane rainforest of the Río Huallaga basin in northeastern Peru. Among other characters, the first new species is distinguishable from others Enyalioides by the combination of the following characters: strongly keeled ventral scales, more than 37 longitudinal rows of dorsals in a transverse line between the dorsolateral crests at midbody, low vertebral crest on the neck with vertebrals on neck similar in size to those between hind limbs, projecting scales on body or limbs absent, 96 mm maximum SVL in both sexes, and caudals increasing in size posteriorly within each autotomic segment. The second new species differs from other species of Enyalioides instrongly keeled ventral scales, scales posterior to the superciliaries forming a longitudinal row of strongly projecting scales across the lateral edge of the skull roof in adults of both sexes, 31 or fewer longitudinal rows of strongly keeled dorsals in a transverse line between the dorsolateral crests at midbody, vertebrals on neck more than five times the size of vertebrals between hind limbs in adult males, projecting scales on body or limbs absent, and caudals increasing in size posteriorly within each autotomic segment. We also present an updated molecular phylogenetic tree of hoplocercines including new samples of E. rudolfarndti, E. rubrigularis, both species described in this paper, as well as an updated identification key for species of Hoplocercinae.
["Cordillera Azul"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

On the Lathrobium fauna of the Emei Shan, Sichuan, China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Six species of Lathrobium Gravenhorst, 1802 from the Emei Shan, Sichuan, are described and illustrated: L. iunctum Assing & Peng sp. n., L. coniunctum Assing & Peng sp. n., L. conexum Assing & Peng sp. n., L. ensigerum Assing & Peng sp. n., L. hastatum Assing & Peng sp. n., and L. bisinuatum Assing & Peng sp. n. Based on their primary and secondary sexual characters, they represent two distinct lineages, each of them comprising three species. A key to the species recorded from the Emei Shan is provided.

Barucynips panamensis, a new genus and species of oak gallwasps (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae, Cynipini) from Panama, and description of one new species of Coffeikokkos
Barucynips panamensis Medianero & Nieves-Aldrey, a new genus and species of oak gallwasps (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Cynipini), is described from adults reared from galls on Quercus bumelioides in Panama. The new genus is taxonomically close to the recently described Coffeikokkos from Costa Rica, but differs from it and all of the described genera of Cynipini, by the shape and setation of the projecting part of the ventral spine of the hypopygium and by the sculpture of the propodeum. A new species of Coffeikokkos is also described from the same area, the Volcán Barú in Panama. Diagnostic characters, gall description, distribution, and biological data of the new genus and the two new species are given. The new genus is the first genus of oak gallwasps of the tribe Cynipini described in Panama.
["Cynipidae"]

A preliminary checklist of the ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) of Andorra
Within the last decade, checklists of the ant fauna of several European countries have been published or updated. Nevertheless, no ant checklists have hitherto been published for the principality of Andorra, a small landlocked country located in the eastern part of the Pyrenees. This work presents a critical list of the ant species of Andorra based on a review of the literature and on the biological material we collected during several field campaigns conducted in Andorra since the year 2005. Seventy-five species belonging to 21 genera of Formicidae were recorded. Nine species were recorded for the first time in Andorra: Aphaenogaster gibbosa (Latreille, 1798), Camponotus lateralis (Olivier, 1792), Camponotus piceus (Leach, 1825), Formica exsecta Nylander, 1846, Lasius piliferus Seifert, 1992, Tapinoma madeirense Forel, 1895, Temnothorax lichtensteini (Bondroit, 1918), Temnothorax niger (Forel, 1894), Temnothorax nigriceps (Mayr, 1855). The most speciose genera were Formica Linnaeus, 1758 and Temnothorax Forel, 1890 with 14 and 12 species, respectively. The ant fauna of Andorra is mostly dominated by Central European species (some are typical cold climate specialists); however species belonging to the Mediterranean ant fauna were also found. This can be explained by the particular geographic situation of Andorra which is characterized by a high mountain Mediterranean climate.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

A new species of the genus Gaeolaelaps (Acari, Mesostigmata, Laelapidae) from Iran
The Genus Gaeolaelaps Evans & Till, 1966 is currently one of the largest genera of the family Laelapidae Berlese. The known representatives of this genus are active predators of small invertebrates such as other mites, insect eggs and nematodes. Gaeolaelaps iranicus Kavianpour & Nemati sp. n., was collected from soil and litter in various parts of Iran. The description and figures of this species are given. A key to the Gaeolaelaps species of Iran is provided.

Alburnoides manyasensis (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae), a new species of cyprinid fish from Manyas Lake basin, Turkey
Alburnoides manyasensis, sp. n., is described from the Koca Stream (Lake Manyas drainage, Marmara Sea basin) in Anatolia. It is distinguished from all species of Alburnoides in Turkey and adjacent regions, Alburnoides tzanevi (Rezovska [Rezve], Istranca and Terkos streams in the western Black Sea drainage), Alburnoides cf. smyrnae (Banaz Stream, a drainage of Büyük Menderes River, Aegean Sea basin), Alburnoides fasciatus (streams and rivers in the eastern Black Sea drainage) and Alburnoides eichwaldii (Kura and Aras rivers [a drainage of Kura River], Caspian Sea basin) by a combination of the following characters (none unique to the species): marked hump at nape, especially in specimens larger than 60 mm SL; partly developed ventral keel between pelvic fin and anal fin, scaleless 1/2 to 2/3 its length; body depth at dorsal-fin origin 29−32% SL; caudal peduncle depth 11−12% SL; 45–52+ 2–3 lateral-line scales; 9–12 scale rows between lateral line and dorsal-fin origin; 4–5 scale rows between lateral line and anal-fin origin, 10½–12½ branched anal-fin rays; 40–42 total vertebrae.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

A revision of the continental species of Copa Simon, 1885 (Araneae, Corinnidae) in the Afrotropical Region
The cryptic ground-dwelling castianeirine genus Copa Simon, 1885 (Araneae: Corinnidae) is revised in the continental Afrotropical Region. The type species of the genus, C. flavoplumosa Simon, 1885, is redescribed and considered a senior synonym of C. benina Strand, 1916 syn. n. and C. benina nigra Lessert, 1933 syn. n. It is widespread throughout the Afrotropical Region but has not been introduced to any of the associated regional islands. A new species, Copa kei sp. n., is described from South Africa. Copa agelenina Simon, 1910, originally described from a subadult female from southern Botswana, is considered a nomen dubium. Copa flavoplumosa is a characteristic species of leaf litter spider assemblages and is particularly prevalent in savanna habitats on the continent, but also occurs in various forest types, grasslands, fynbos and semi-arid Nama Karoo habitats. In contrast, C. kei sp. n. has only been recorded from Afromontane and coastal forests in south-eastern South Africa.
["Castianeirinae"]

Description of a new species of Distenia (Coleoptera, Disteniidae, Disteniini) from Southeastern China, with records and diagnoses of similar species
A new species, Distenia orientalis sp. n. is described from Southeastern China. It was misidentified as D. gracilis (Blessig, 1872) but can be separated from the latter by the color of antennae and legs, structure differences on scape, maxillary palp, pronotum, tibiae, punctures on elytra, etc. Three related species are carefully diagnosed and treated.
["Distenia orientalis"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

One new and seven newly recorded Callichromatini species from China (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae)
One new species, Schwarzerium yunnanum sp. n. is described from Yunnan Province, China. And a new subgenus Rugosochroma subgen. n. is erected for it. Additionally, Seven species of the tribe Callichromatini are newly recorded from China: Aphrodisium niisatoi Vives & Bentanachs, 2007, Aphrodisium tricoloripes Pic, 1925, Chelidonium violaceimembris Gressitt & Rondon, 1970 (new from Vietnam too), Chloridolum grossepunctatum Gressitt & Rondon, 1970 (new from Vietnam too), Chloridolum semipunctatum Gressit & Rondon 1970, Embrikstrandia vivesi Bentanachs, 2005 and Laosaphrodisium subplicatum (Pic, 1937).
["Callichromatini"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Further studies on the Pselaphodes complex of genera from China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
New data on the Pselaphodes complex of genera (Pselaphitae: Tyrini) from China is presented. The generic limits of Labomimus Sharp and Pselaphodes Westwood are discussed and expanded. A revised key to the genera of the Pselaphodes complex is provided. New geographic evidence suggests that previously believed wide-spread species Pselaphodes tianmuensis Yin, Li & Zhao contains a number of related species, resulting in a division of the species to nine separate taxa. Fourteen new species belonging to three genera are diagnosed, described and illustrated: Dayao emeiensis Yin & Li, sp. n. (Sichuan), Labomimus fimbriatus Yin & Hlaváč, sp. n. (Yunnan), L. jizuensis Yin & Hlaváč, sp. n. (Yunnan), L. simplicipalpus Yin & Hlaváč, sp. n. (Sichuan), Pselaphodes anhuianus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Anhui), P. daii Yin & Hlaváč, sp. n. (Sichuan), P. grebennikovi Yin & Hlaváč, sp. n. (Yunnan), P. hainanensis Yin & Li, sp. n. (Hainan), P. kuankuoshuiensis Yin & Li, sp. n. (Guizhou), P. longilobus Yin & Hlaváč, sp. n. (Hunbei, Yunnan), P. monoceros Yin & Hlaváč, sp. n. (Xizang), P. pengi Yin & Li, sp. n. (Sichuan), P. tiantongensis Yin & Li, sp. n. (Zhejiang) and P. wrasei Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan). Labomimus sichuanicus Hlaváč, Nomura & Zhou (Sichuan) is redescribed and illustrated based on a paratype and the material from the type locality. Two recently described species, Pselaphodes tibialis Yin & Li (Yunnan), and P. venustus Yin & Li (Yunnan), are transferred to Labomimus (comb. n.) due to the presence of a median metaventral fovea. New locality data is provided for P. aculeus Yin, Li & Zhao (Anhui, Fujian, Guangxi, Hainan, Yunnan), P. maoershanus Yin & Li (Guangxi, Guizhou), P. tianmuensis (Zhejiang, Anhui, Fujian, Jiangxi, Guangxi) and P. pectinatus Yin, Li & Zhao (Hainan), with the aedeagus newly illustrated for the latter species.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Description of Pella maoershanensis sp. n. (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae) associated with Lasius spathepus from Guangxi, South China
Pella maoershanensis Song & Li, sp. n., collected from a colony of Lasius (Dendrolasius) spathepus in Maoershan Natural Reserve, Guangxi, is diagnosed, described and illustrated. The discovery represents the first record of the genus in South China.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Redescription and anatomy of Diplodonta portesiana (d’Orbigny, 1846) (Bivalvia, Ungulinidae) from Brazil
The present redescription of Diplodonta portesiana (d’Orbigny, 1846) is the first part of the revision of this genus in the East Atlantic. This species, despite being common in the Atlantic coast, remains poorly known. A detailed shell and anatomical study was conducted based not only on specimens from the type locality’s vicinities but also on samples from other regions. Diagnostic characters for D. portesiana includes: rounded shell with a small ligament; triangular, short and deep nymph; external micro ornamentation composed of small concavities in a concentric pattern; small adductor muscles; reduced pedal gape; pair of long hemipalps with a large area covered by folds; stomach with four ducts leading to digestive diverticula; and long intestine length. Our study suggests at least two new diagnostic characters to the genus: the two pair of muscles that controls the incurrent and excurrent openings and a residual ring-like tissue surrounding the anterior half of the posterior foot retractor muscle.
["Diplodonta portesiana"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A preliminary study on the insect fauna of Al-Baha Province, Saudi Arabia, with descriptions of two new species
A preliminary study was carried out on the insect fauna of Al-Baha Province, south-western part of Saudi Arabia. A total number of 582 species and subspecies (few identified only to the genus level) belonging to 129 families and representing 17 orders were recorded. Two of these species are described as new, namely: Monomorium sarawatensis Sharaf & Aldawood sp. n. [Formicidae, Hymenoptera] and Anthrax alruqibi El-Hawagry sp. n. [Bombyliidae, Diptera]. Another eight species are recorded for the first time in Saudi Arabia, namely: Xiphoceriana arabica (Uvarov, 1922) [Pamphagidae, Orthoptera], Pyrgomorpha conica (Olivier, 1791) [Pyrgomorphidae, Orthoptera], Catopsilia florella (Fabricius, 1775) [Pieridae, Lepidoptera], Anthrax chionanthrax (Bezzi, 1926) [Bombyliidae, Diptera], Spogostylum near tripunctatum Pallas in Wiedemann, 1818 [Bombyliidae, Diptera], Cononedys dichromatopa (Bezzi, 1925) [Bombyliidae, Diptera], Mydas sp. [Mydidae, Diptera], and Hippobosca equina Linnaeus, 1758 [Hippoboscidae, Diptera]. Al-Baha Province is divided by huge and steep Rocky Mountains into two main sectors, a lowland coastal plain at the west, known as “Tihama”, and a mountainous area with an elevation of 1500 to 2450 m above sea level at the east, known as “Al-Sarat or Al-Sarah” which form a part of Al-Sarawat Mountains range. Insect species richness in the two sectors (Tihama and Al-Sarah) was compared, and the results showed that each of the two sectors of Al-Baha Province has a unique insect community. The study generally concluded that the insect faunal composition in Al-Baha Province has an Afrotropical flavor, with the Afrotropical elements predominant, and a closer affiliation to the Afrotropical region than to the Palearctic region or the Eremic zone. Consequently, we tend to agree with those biogeographers who consider that parts of the Arabian Peninsula, including Al-Baha Province, should be included in the Afrotropical region rather than in the Palaearctic region or the Eremic zone.
["Palaearctic"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A review of the genus Berosus Leach of Cuba (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae)
The Cuban fauna of the genus Berosus Leach, 1817 is reviewed based on newly collected material as well as historical and type specimens. Nine species are recognized, including three recorded from Cuba for the first time: B. infuscatus LeConte, 1855, B. interstitialis Knisch, 1924 (= B. stribalus Orchymont, 1946 syn.n.) and B. metalliceps Sharp, 1882. Only one of the nine Cuban species, B. chevrolati, remains endemic to Cuba, as two other species previously considered as endemic to Cuba are recorded from elsewhere: B. quadridens from Mexico and Central America and B. trilobus from the Dominican Republic. Notes on biology and Cuban distribution are provided for all nine species. Berosus quadridens Chevrolat, 1863, stat. restit. is removed from synonym with B. truncatipennis and considered a valid species.
["Hydrophilinae"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

New record of the cockroach genus Pseudophoraspis (Blaberidae, Epilamprinae) from China with descriptions of three new species
ThegenusPseudophoraspisKirby,1903withthree newspecies, Pseudophoraspis clavellata sp. n., Pseudophoraspis recurvata sp. n. and Pseudophoraspis incurvata sp. n.,arereportedfromChina forthefirsttime.This extends the range of this genus northward from Vietnam. Species studied in the present paper are illustrated and described, and a key to these species based on males is provided.
["Dictyoptera"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Heptageniidae (Insecta, Ephemeroptera) of Thailand
Nine genera and twenty-two species of heptageniid mayflies from Thailand are defined in this present work as well as one suggested further subgenus, Compsoneuria (Siamoneuria) kovaci (species “incertae sedis”) including some particular characters. Taxonomic remarks, diagnoses, line drawings of key characters, distribution, habitat and biological data, and a larval key to the genera and species are provided. The chorionic eggs of eight genera and eight species were observed and shown using a scanning electron microscope.
["Mayflies"]

Sinularia leptoclados (Ehrenberg, 1834) (Cnidaria: Octocorallia) re-examined
Sinularia leptoclados (Ehrenberg, 1834) is re-described. Sinularia leptoclados var. gonatodes Kolonko, 1926 is synonymized with S. maxima Verseveldt, 1977. Two new species of Sinularia with digitiform lobules, leptoclados-type surface clubs and unbranched interior spindles, are described. An updated maximum likelihood tree of Sinularia species with leptoclados-type clubs (clade 5C) based on two mitochondrial genes (mtMutS, COI) and a nuclear gene (28S rDNA) is presented.

A new species of Myrmozercon Berlese (Acari, Mesostigmata, Laelapidae) associated with ant from Iran
This paper report on a new species of mites of the genus Myrmozercon associated with ant in Iran – Myrmozercon cyrusi Ghafarian and Joharchi sp. n. was collected associated of the Monomorium sp. in Kenevist Rural District in the Central District of Mashhad County, Khorasan Razavi Province, Iran. This new species is described and illustrations provided. Myrmozercon ovatum Karawajew, 1909 is suspected to be a junior synonym of M. brevipes Berlese, 1902 and host-specificity and host range of Myrmozercon are also reviewed.
["Laelapidae"]

A systematic revision of Operclipygus Marseul (Coleoptera, Histeridae, Exosternini)
We revise the large Neotropical genus Operclipygus Marseul, in the histerid tribe Exosternini (Histeridae: Histerinae). We synonymize 3 species, move 14 species from other genera, sink the genus Tribalister Horn into Operclipygus, and describe 138 species as new, bringing the total to 177 species of Operclipygus. Keys are provided for the identification of all species, and the majority of the species are illustrated by habitus and male genitalia illustrations. The species are diverse throughout tropical South and Central America, with only a few species extending into the temperate parts of North America. The majority of species can be recognized by the presence of a distinct stria or sulcus along the apical margin of the pygidium, though it is not exclusive to the genus. Natural history details for species of Operclipygus are scant, as most specimens have been collected through the use of passive flight interception traps. Many are probably generally associated with decaying vegetation and leaf litter, where they prey on small arthropods. But a small proportion are known inquilines, with social insects such as ants and termites, and also with some burrowing mammals, such as Ctenomys Blainville. The genus now includes the following species groups and species: Operclipygus sulcistrius group [O. lucanoides sp. n., O. schmidti sp. n., O. simplistrius sp. n., O. sulcistrius Marseul, 1870], O. mirabilis group [O. mirabilis (Wenzel & Dybas, 1941) comb. n., O. pustulifer sp. n., O. plaumanni sp. n., O. sinuatus sp. n., O. mutuca sp. n., O. carinistrius (Lewis, 1908) comb. n., O. parensis sp. n., O. schlingeri sp. n.], O. kerga group [O. kerga (Marseul, 1870), O. planifrons sp. n., O. punctistrius sp. n.], O. conquisitus group [O. bicolor sp. n., O. conquisitus (Lewis, 1902), O. friburgius (Marseul, 1864)], O. impuncticollis group [O. bickhardti sp. n., O. britannicus sp. n., O. impuncticollis (Hinton, 1935)], O. panamensis group [O. crenatus (Lewis, 1888), O. panamensis (Wenzel & Dybas, 1941)], O. sejunctus group [O. depressus (Hinton, 1935), O. itoupe sp. n., O. juninensis sp. n., O. pecki sp. n., O. punctiventer sp. n., O. sejunctus (Schmidt, 1896) comb. n., O. setiventris sp. n.], O. mortavis group [O. ecitonis sp. n., O. mortavis sp. n., O. paraguensis sp. n.], O. dytiscoides group [O. carinisternus sp. n., O. crenulatus sp. n., O. dytiscoides sp. n., O. quadratus sp. n.], O. dubitabilis group [O. dubitabilis (Marseul, 1889), O. yasuni sp. n.], O. angulifer group [O. angulifer sp. n., O. impressifrons sp. n.], O. dubius group [O. andinus sp. n., O. dubius (Lewis, 1888), O. extraneus sp. n., O. intermissus sp. n., O. lunulus sp. n., O. occultus sp. n., O. perplexus sp. n., O. remotus sp. n., O. validus sp. n., O. variabilis sp. n.], O. hospes group [O. assimilis sp. n., O. belemensis sp. n., O. bulbistoma sp. n., O. callifrons sp. n., O. colombicus sp. n., O. communis sp. n., O. confertus sp. n., O. confluens sp. n., O. curtistrius sp. n., O. diffluens sp. n., O. fusistrius sp. n., O. gratus sp. n., O. hospes (Lewis, 1902), O. ibiscus sp. n., O. ignifer sp. n., O. impositus sp. n., O. incisus sp. n., O. innocuus sp. n., O. inquilinus sp. n., O. minutus sp. n., O. novateutoniae sp. n., O. praecinctus sp. n., O. prominens sp. n., O. rileyi sp. n., O. subterraneus sp. n., O. tenuis sp. n., O. tiputinus sp. n.], O. farctus group [O. atlanticus sp. n., O. bidessois (Marseul, 1889), O. distinctus (Hinton, 1935), O. distractus (Schmidt, 1896) comb. n., O. farctissimus sp. n., O. farctus (Marseul, 1864), O. gilli sp. n., O. impressistrius sp. n., O. inflatus sp. n., O. latemarginatus (Bickhardt, 1920) comb. n., O. petrovi sp. n., O. plicatus (Hinton, 1935) comb. n., O. prolixus sp. n., O. punctifrons sp. n., O. proximus sp. n., O. subrufus sp. n.], O. hirsutipes group [O. guianensis sp. n., O. hirsutipes sp. n.], O. hamistrius group [O. arquus sp. n., O. campbelli sp. n., O. chiapensis sp. n., O. dybasi sp. n., O. geometricus (Casey, 1893) comb. n., O. hamistrius (Schmidt, 1893) comb. n., O. impressicollis sp. n., O. intersectus sp. n., O. montanus sp. n., O. nubosus sp. n., O. pichinchensis sp. n., O. propinquus sp. n., O. quinquestriatus sp. n., O. rubidus (Hinton, 1935) comb. n., O. rufescens sp. n., O. troglodytes sp. n.], O. plicicollis group [O. cephalicus sp. n., O. longidens sp. n., O. plicicollis (Schmidt, 1893)], O. fossipygus group [O. disconnectus sp. n., O. fossipygus (Wenzel, 1944), O. foveipygus (Bickhardt, 1918), O. fungicolus (Wenzel & Dybas, 1941), O. gibbulus (Schmidt, 1889) comb. n., O. olivensis sp. n., O. simplicipygus sp. n., O. subdepressus (Schmidt, 1889), O. therondi (Wenzel, 1976)], O. impunctipennis group [O. chamelensis sp. n., O. foveiventris sp. n., O. granulipectus sp. n., O. impunctipennis (Hinton, 1935) comb. n., O. latifoveatus sp. n., O. lissipygus sp. n., O. maesi sp. n., O. mangiferus sp. n., O. marginipennis sp. n., O. nicodemus sp. n., O. nitidus sp. n., O. pacificus sp. n., O. pauperculus sp. n., O. punctissipygus sp. n., O. subviridis sp. n., O. tripartitus sp. n., O. vorax sp. n.], O. marginellus group [O. ashei sp. n., O. baylessae sp. n., O. dentatus sp. n., O. formicatus sp. n., O. hintoni sp. n., O. marginellus (J.E. LeConte, 1860) comb. n., O. orchidophilus sp. n., O. selvorum sp. n., O. striatellus (Fall, 1917) comb. n.], incertae sedis: O. teapensis (Marseul, 1853) comb. n., O. punctulatus sp. n., O. lama Mazur, 1988, O. florifaunensis sp. n., O. bosquesecus sp. n., O. arnaudi Dégallier, 1982, O. subsphaericus sp. n., O. latipygus sp. n., O. elongatus sp. n., O. rupicolus sp. n., O. punctipleurus sp. n., O. falini sp. n., O. peregrinus sp. n., O. brooksi sp. n., O. profundipygus sp. n., O. punctatissimus sp. n., O. cavisternus sp. n., O. siluriformis sp. n., O. parallelus sp. n., O. abbreviatus sp. n., O. pygidialis (Lewis, 1908), O. faltistrius sp. n., O. limonensis sp. n., O. wenzeli sp. n., O. iheringi (Bickhardt, 1917), O. angustisternus (Wenzel, 1944), O. shorti sp. n. We establish the following synonymies: Phelisteroides miladae Wenzel & Dybas, 1941 and Pseudister propygidialis Hinton, 1935e = O. crenatus (Lewis, 1888); Phelister subplicatus Schmidt, 1893b = O. bidessois (Marseul, 1889). We designate lectotypes for Operclipygus sulcistrius Marseul, 1870, Phelister carinistrius Lewis, 1908, Phelister kerga Marseul, 1870, Phelister friburgius Marseul, 1864, Phelister impuncticollis Hinton, 1935, Phelister crenatus Lewis, 1888, Phelister sejunctus Schmidt, 1896, Pseudister depressus Hinton, 1935, Epierus dubius Lewis, 1888, Phelister hospes Lewis, 1902, Phelister farctus Marseul, 1864, Phelister bidessois Marseul, 1889, Phelister subplicatus Schmidt, 1893, Phelister plicatus Hinton, 1935, Phelister distinctus Hinton, 1935, Phelister distractus Schmidt, 1896, Pseudister latemarginatus Bickhardt, 1920, Phelister hamistrius Schmidt, 1893, Phelister plicicollis Schmidt, 1893, Phelister gibbulus Schmidt, 1889, Phelister subdepressus Schmidt, 1889, Phelister teapensis Marseul, 1853, Phelister pygidialis Lewis, 1908, Phelister iheringi Bickhardt, 1917, and Phelister marginellus J.E. LeConte 1860. We designate a neotype for O. conquisitus Lewis, replacing its lost type specimen.

A new species of Nicon Kinberg, 1866 (Polychaeta, Nereididae) from Ecuador, Eastern Pacific, with a key to all known species of the genus
A new species of Nicon Kinberg, 1866 from the east Pacific coast of Ecuador is described. The new species is characterized by a long, thin dorsal ligule on median and posterior parapodia and infracicular sesquigomph falcigers in the neuropodia. A key to all species of Nicon is provided.

New spider flies from the Neotropical Region (Diptera, Acroceridae) with a key to New World genera
Two new genera and five new species of spider flies (Diptera: Acroceridae) are described from the Neotropical Region. A new genus of Philopotinae (Neophilopota brevirostris Schlinger gen. et sp. n.) is described from Mexico, while an unusual new species of Sphaerops Philippi, 1865 (Acrocerinae: S. micella Schlinger sp. n.) is described from Chile. A new Panopinae genus near Lasia Wiedemann, 1824 (Coquena stangei Schlinger gen. et sp. n.), is described from Argentina and two new species of Pialea Erichson, 1840 (P. brunea Schlinger sp. n. and P. corbiculata Schlinger sp. n.) are described from Venezuela. Each genus is diagnosed and figured, and a key to species provided. The Neotropical fauna presently includes 19 genera, containing approximately 100 species. A key to New World genera is also included.
["Acrocerinae"]

Corroborating molecular species discovery: Four new pine-feeding species of Chionaspis (Hemiptera, Diaspididae)
The genus Chionaspis (Hemiptera, Diaspididae) includes two North American species of armored scale insects feeding on Pinaceae: Chionaspis heterophyllae Cooley, and C. pinifoliae (Fitch). Despite the economic impact of conifer-feeding Chionaspis on horticulture, the species diversity in this group has only recently been systematically investigated using samples from across the group’s geographic and host range. This paper provides morphological recognition characters for four new species that were recently hypothesized to exist on the basis of molecular evidence. The new species, here described, are Chionaspis brachycephalon Vea sp. n., Chionaspis caudata Vea sp. n., Chionaspis sonorae Vea sp. n. and Chionaspis torreyanae Vea sp. n. One of the new species, C. caudata Vea, has a gland spine at the apex of the pygidium, between the median lobes, unlike any other species of Chionaspis. An identification key to the species of Chionaspis feeding on pine in North America is provided.
["Armored scale insects"]

A new Vaejovis C.L. Koch, 1836, the second known vorhiesi group species from the Santa Catalina Mountains of Arizona (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae)
A new species of the vorhiesi group of Vaejovis C.L. Koch, 1836, Vaejovis brysoni sp. n., is described from the Santa Catalina Mountains in southern Arizona. Vaejovis deboerae Ayrey also inhabits this mountain range, making this the first documented case of two vorhiesi group species distributed on the same mountain. When compared to all other vorhiesi group species, Vaejovis brysoni sp. n. is distinct based on several combinations of morphological characters and morphometric ratios.
["Madrean sky islands"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Two new species of the gorgonian inhabiting barnacle, Conopea (Crustacea, Cirripedia, Thoracica), from the Gulf of Guinea
Two new species of Conopea (Say 1822) are described from the Gulf of Guinea: Conopea saotomensis sp. n. and Conopea fidelis sp. n. These two new species were collected from the historically isolated volcanic islands of São Tomé and Príncipe. The relationship between Conopea saotomensis sp. n., Conopea fidelis sp. n. and two other Atlantic barnacle species, Conopea calceola (Ellis 1758) and Conopea galeata (Linnaeus 1771), is examined. The methods employed are the construction of a molecular phylogeny using mitochondrial COI and nuclear H3 gene sequence data along with morphological comparisons of calcareous and cuticular body parts. It is found that Conopea saotomensis sp. n., Conopea fidelis sp. n. and Conopea calceola are most closely related to each other but the relationship among them is unresolved. Gorgonian hosts are identified. Preliminary observations show species level host specificity for C. fidelis sp. n.
["Barnacle"]

New continental record and new species of Austromerope (Mecoptera, Meropeidae) from Brazil
A new species of Meropeidae (Mecoptera) from Brazil, Austromerope brasiliensis sp. n., is described, representing only the 3rd extant species described in this family and the 1st record of the family from the Neotropical region. The distribution and biogeography of the family are discussed and we propose that Meropeidae originated before continental drift and then divided into two branches, northern and southern, with the breakup of Pangea. Identification keys for the Neotropical families of Mecoptera and for the species of Meropeidae are provided.
["earwigflies"]

Key for European species of the Cheilosia proxima group (Diptera, Syrphidae) with a description of a new species
A new hoverfly species, Cheilosia barbafacies Vujić & Radenković sp. n. (Diptera, Syrphidae), is described and distinguished from the closely related species C. pascuorum Becker, 1894, based on material collected from the mountains of the Balkan Peninsula. Diagnostic characteristics and an identification key for the members of the proxima group of Cheilosia s. str., including the new taxon, are provided.

Review of the Palaearctic Acomopterella Zaitzev (Diptera, Sciaroidea, Mycetophilidae)
The distribution of Acomopterella species in the Palaearctic region has been re-examined in this study, using recently collected material. The European species was found to be distributed in the eastern Palaearctic as well. A second Palaearctic species from Honshu (Japan) is herein described. The morphology of adult specimens was studied by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The shape of functional specialized setae on mid tibiae in Acomopterella and seven further fungus gnat genera is described and the suitability of this character for systematic studies is discussed. Details of a “hind tibial organ” are described.The position of Acomopterella in the tribe Gnoristini is briefly discussed. Acomopterella is found to be more closely related to Speolepta Edwards, 1925, than to any other recent genus.

A new species of Callispa Baly (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae, Callispini) infesting coconut palm (Cocos nucifera L.) in India
Callispa keram sp. n. infesting coconut palm (Cocos nucifera L.) in Kerala, India is described and illustrated.Livistona chinensis R.Br. andSyagrusromanzoffiana(Cham.) Glassman are reported as additional host plants.
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Endemism of subterranean Diacyclops in Korea and Japan, with descriptions of seven new species of the languidoides-group and redescriptions of D. brevifurcus and D. suoensis (Crustacea, Copepoda, Cyclopoida)
Copepods have been poorly studied in subterranean habitats in Korea. Previous records have indicated mostly the presence of species already described from Japan, with very few endemic elements. This commonality has usually been explained by repeated dispersal across the land bridges that connected the two countries several times during the Pleistocene glacial cycles. However, the Korean Peninsula is known for pockets of Cambrian and Ordovician carbonate rocks, with more than 1,000 caves alreadybeen explored. The relative isolation of these carbonate pockets makes for an enormous speciation potential, and the development of a high level of short-range endemism of subterranean copepods should be expected. Representatives of the genus Diacyclops Kiefer, 1927 are here investigated from a range of subterranean habitats in South Korea, with comparative material sampled from central Honshu in Japan. Morphological analyses of microcharacters, many of which are used in cyclopoid taxonomy for the first time herein, reveal high diversity in both countries. No subterranean species is found in common, although the existence of four sibling species pairs in Korea and Japan may be indicative of relatively recent speciation. We describe seven new stygobiotic species, including three from Korea (D. hanguk sp. n., D. leeae sp. n., and D. parasuoensis sp. n.) and four from Japan (D. hisuta sp. n., D. ishidai sp. n., D. parahanguk sp. n., and D. pseudosuoensis sp. n.). Diacyclops hanguk, D. parasuoensis, D. ishidai, and D. parahanguk are described from newly collected material, while the other three new species are proposed for specimens previously identified as other, widely distributed species. Diacyclops brevifurcus Ishida, 2006 is redescribed from the holotype female, and D. suoensis Ito, 1954 is redescribed from material newly collected near the ancient Lake Biwa in Japan. This research provides evidence for the importance of subterranean habitats as reservoirs of biodiversity, and also demonstrates the inadequacy of current morphological methods of identifying closely related species of copepods. The disproportionately high diversity discovered around Lake Biwa provides further evidence in support of the hypothesis about the role of ancient lakes as biodiversity pumps for subterranean habitats. A key to the East Asian species of the languidoides-group is provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

The amphibians and reptiles of Luzon Island, Philippines, VIII: the herpetofauna of Cagayan and Isabela Provinces, northern Sierra Madre Mountain Range
We provide the first report on the herpetological biodiversity (amphibians and reptiles) of the northern Sierra Madre Mountain Range (Cagayan and Isabela provinces), northeast Luzon Island, Philippines. New data from extensive previously unpublished surveys in the Municipalities of Gonzaga, Gattaran, Lasam, Santa Ana, and Baggao (Cagayan Province), as well as fieldwork in the Municipalities of Cabagan, San Mariano, and Palanan (Isabela Province), combined with all available historical museum records, suggest this region is quite diverse. Our new data indicate that at least 101 species are present (29 amphibians, 30 lizards, 35 snakes, two freshwater turtles, three marine turtles, and two crocodilians) and now represented with well-documented records and/or voucher specimens, confirmed in institutional biodiversity repositories. A high percentage of Philippine endemic species constitute the local fauna (approximately 70%). The results of this and other recent studies signify that the herpetological diversity of the northern Philippines is far more diverse than previously imagined. Thirty-eight percent of our recorded species are associated with unresolved taxonomic issues (suspected new species or species complexes in need of taxonomic partitioning). This suggests that despite past and present efforts to comprehensively characterize the fauna, the herpetological biodiversity of the northern Philippines is still substantially underestimated and warranting of further study.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A revision of the genus Ufeus Grote with the description of a new species from Arizona (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Noctuinae, Xylenini, Ufeina)
The genus Ufeus Grote is revised to include five species including U. felsensteini, sp. n. in southern Arizona. A key to species, descriptions, illustrations of adults and genitalia are included.

A review of the genus Ogdoconta Butler (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Condicinae, Condicini) from North America north of Mexico with descriptions of three new species
The species of the genus Ogdoconta Butler, 1891 (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Condicinae, Condicini) from North America north of Mexico are reviewed, and a description of the genus is given. Ogdoconta satana Metzler, Knudson & Poole, sp. n., is described from New Mexico and Texas, Ogdoconta rufipenna Metzler, Knudson & Poole, sp. n., is described from Arizona, and Ogdoconta fergusoni Metzler & Lafontaine, sp. n., is described from Florida, Mississippi, and Louisiana. A key to the species of Ogdoconta of North America north of Mexico is provided. Adult moths and male and female genitalia of Ogdoconta satana, O. rufipenna, O. fergusoni, O. cinereola (Guenée, 1852), O. moreno Barnes, 1907, O. sexta Barnes & McDunnough, 1913, O. altura Barnes, 1904, and O. tacna (Barnes, 1904) are illustrated.

A review of the Paectes arcigera species complex (Guenée) (Lepidoptera, Euteliidae)
Five new species of Paectes Hübner [1818] related to Paectes arcigera (Guenée) (Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Lucia, Trinidad) and P. longiformis Pogue (Brazil) are described: P. asper sp. n. (Florida, Bahamas, Cuba, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, Dominica, Colombia), P. medialba sp. n. (Argentina), P. similis sp. n. (Brazil), P. sinuosa sp. n. (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay), and P. tumida sp. n. (Colombia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana). Adults and genitalia are illustrated for all species. Taxonomic changes include the rev. stat. of P. nana (Walker) (Florida, Greater Antilles, Mexico, Guatemala, Galapagos) as a valid species and revised synonyms P. indefatigabilis Schaus and P. isabel Schaus as junior synonyms of P. nana instead of P. arcigera. New host records for P. sinuosa and P. nana reared on Brazilian peppertree (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi, Anacardiaceae) are presented. The holotype and female genitalia of P. obrotunda (Guenée) are illustrated.

Five new species and three new subspecies of Erebidae and Noctuidae (Insecta, Lepidoptera) from Northwestern North America, with notes on Chytolita Grote (Erebidae) and Hydraecia Guenée (Noctuidae)
Several taxonomic issues in the moth families Erebidae and Noctuidae are addressed for Northwestern North America. Drasteria parallela Crabo & Mustelin and Cycnia oregonensis tristis Crabo in the Erebidae and Eudryas brevipennis bonneville Shepard & Crabo, Resapamea diluvius Crabo, Resapamea angelika Crabo, Resapamea mammuthus Crabo, Fishia nigrescens Hammond & Crabo, and Xestia perquiritata orca Crabo & Hammond in the Noctuidae are described as new. The following new synonyms are proposed: Chytolita petrealis Grote with Herminea morbidalis Guenée; Gortyna columbia Barnes & Benjamin and Gortyna ximena Barnes & Benjamin with Gortyna obliqua Harvey; and Hydroecia pallescens Smith with Hydroecia medialis Smith. The type locality of Gortyna intermedia Barnes & Benjamin is restricted to Lundbreck, Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, Canada.

Description of a new species and subspecies of Idalus Walker from Costa Rica, Honduras and Guatemala (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae, Arctiini)
A new species and subspecies of Idalus Walker are described from Costa Rica, Honduras and Guatemala. Images of males and females and their genitalia are provided. Locality information and distribution maps for Costa Rica and for Guatemala are included. The biology and phylogeny of Idalus are discussed.

Four new Neotropical Lophocampa species with a redescription of Lophocampa atriceps (Hampson) (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae)
Four new species of Lophocampa Harris, are described and illustrated: Lophocampa flavodorsata sp. n., Lophocampa griseidorsata sp. n., Lophocampa herbini sp. n. and Lophocampa sullivani sp. n. Lophocampa atriceps (Hampson) is redescribed, illustrated and compared to the new species.

Cryptic species within cryptic moths: new species of Dunama Schaus (Notodontidae, Nystaleinae) in Costa Rica
Based on almost 1,700 recently reared and wild-collected specimens, the genus Dunama Schaus (Notodontidae, Nystaelinae) in Costa Rica is reviewed. Eight species are recorded of which seven are newly described: Dunama jessiehillae Chacón, Dunama jessiebarronae Chacón, D. janewaldronae Chacón, D. jessiebancroftae Chacón, D. janecoxae Chacón, D. biosise Chacón, D. indereci Chacón. Dunama angulinea Schaus is redescribed and associated with its correct genitalia. D. tuna (Schaus), previously listed as ocurring in Costa Rica, is restricted to Colombia. Most species are described through their distinctive CO1 barcodes, genitalia and life histories. Dunama adults and caterpillars, their foodplants, and their parasites in Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica are described where known. Many life history stages are illustrated.
["Dunama"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of Palpita (Crambidae, Spilomelinae) from the coastal plains of southeastern United States
A new species of Palpita Hübner (Crambidae, Spilomelinae), P. maritima, sp. n., is described from maritime forests of the coastal plains of southeastern United States.

The semi-aquatic freshwater earthworms of the genus Glyphidrilus Horst, 1889 from Thailand (Oligochaeta, Almidae) with re-descriptions of several species
The semi-aquatic freshwater earthworm genus Glyphidrilus Horst, 1889 from Thailand was investigated based on extensive recent collecting. The species in this genus were characterized by their external and internal morphological characters of the location of wings, genital openings, genital organ structures and their locations, as well as the dimensions of body length and number of segments. Several type specimens were compared with both previous and newly collected materials. Ten new species are described from several river systems in Thailand; as G. borealis sp. n., G. chaophraya sp. n., G. chiensis sp. n., G. huailuangensis sp. n., G. kratuensis sp. n., G. quadratus sp. n., G. trangensis sp. n., G. wararamensis sp. n., G. vangthongensis sp. n. and G. vesper sp. n. Each species is endemic to a single river system. All 26 previously described species are re-described, and eight lectotypes have been designated. An identification key and a morphological comparison summary are provided.
["Oligochaeta"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Further notes on New Zealand Enantiobuninae (Opiliones, Neopilionidae), with the description of a new genus and two new species
Mangatangi parvum gen. n. and sp. and Forsteropsalis pureroa sp. n. are described from the North Island of New Zealand. Pantopsalis listeri (White 1849) and P. cheliferoides (Colenso 1882) are redescribed and no longer regarded as nomina dubia; P. luna (Forster 1944) is identified as a junior synonym of P. listeri. A key to Pantopsalis species is provided.
["Palpatores"]

Micro-computed tomography: Introducing new dimensions to taxonomy
Continuous improvements in the resolution of three-dimensional imaging have led to an increased application of these techniques in conventional taxonomic research in recent years. Coupled with an ever increasing research effort in cybertaxonomy, three-dimensional imaging could give a boost to the development of virtual specimen collections, allowing rapid and simultaneous access to accurate virtual representations of type material. This paper explores the potential of micro-computed tomography (X-ray micro-tomography), a non-destructive three-dimensional imaging technique based on mapping X-ray attenuation in the scanned object, for supporting research in systematics and taxonomy. The subsequent use of these data as virtual type material, so-called “cybertypes”, and the creation of virtual collections lie at the core of this potential. Sample preparation, image acquisition, data processing and presentation of results are demonstrated using polychaetes (bristle worms), a representative taxon of macro-invertebrates, as a study object. Effects of the technique on the morphological, anatomical and molecular identity of the specimens are investigated. The paper evaluates the results and discusses the potential and the limitations of the technique for creating cybertypes. It also discusses the challenges that the community might face to establish virtual collections. Potential future applications of three-dimensional information in taxonomic research are outlined, including an outlook to new ways of producing, disseminating and publishing taxonomic information.
["Micro-computed tomography"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Paleopathology and ancient diseases", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Hymenopteran parasitoids of the ant-eating spider Zodarion styliferum (Simon) (Araneae, Zodariidae)
Calymmochilus dispar Bouček & Andriescu (Hymenoptera, Eupelmidae) and Gelis apterus (Pontoppidan) (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) are newly recorded as parasitoids of the ant-eating spider Zodarion styliferum (Simon) (Araneae, Zodariidae). The larvae of both parasitoid species fed on juvenile spiders. The final instar larva and pupa of C. dispar and the male of G. apterus are described for the first time. Both species represent new distribution records for Portugal. The biology and host associations of the parasitoids are discussed.
["Ectoparasitoid"]

An illustrated key to and diagnoses of the species of Histeridae (Coleoptera) associated with decaying carcasses in Argentina
A key to 16 histerid species associated with decaying carcasses in Argentina is presented, including diagnoses and habitus photographs for these species. This article provides a table of all species associated with carcasses, detailing the substrate from which they were collected and geographical distribution by province. All 16 Histeridae species registered are grouped into three subfamilies: Saprininae (twelve species of Euspilotus Lewis and one species of Xerosaprinus Wenzel), Histerinae (one species of Hololepta Paykull and one species of Phelister Marseul) and Dendrophilinae (one species of Carcinops Marseul). Two species are new records for Argentina: Phelister rufinotus Marseul and Carcinops troglodytes (Paykull). A discussion is presented on the potential forensic importance of some species collected on human and pig carcasses.
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Two new species of Dacne Latreille (Coleoptera, Erotylidae) from China, with a key to Chinese species and subspecies of Dacne
Two new species Dacne (Xenodacne) tangliangi sp. n. and Dacne (Xenodacne) hujiayaoi sp. n. are described from China. A key to Chinese species and subspecies of genus Dacne Latreille is provided.

Gastrocopta (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Pupillidae) in the Pilbara region of Western Australia
Six species of Gastrocopta have been identified from the Pilbara region, Western Australia, by means of comparative analyses of shell and mtDNA variation. Three of these species, G. hedleyi, G. larapinta and G. servilis, have been recorded in the Pilbara for the first time. Gastrocopta sp. CW1 is probably new to science and might be endemic to the region. By contrast, G. hedleyi, G. larapinta and G. mussoni are shown to be widespread.

New western Palaearctic Dinotrema species with mesoscutal pit and only medially sculptured propodeum (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae)
Descriptions of four new species of the genus Dinotrema Foerster with a mesoscutal pit and only medially sculptured propodeum are given. Dinotrema alysiae sp. n. (Denmark, England, Netherlands, Spain), D. paramicum sp. n. (Denmark, Finland), D. tirolense sp. n. (Italy) and D. valvulatum sp. n. (Denmark, Italy).

Description of Lentistivalius philippinensis, a new species of flea (Siphonaptera, Pygiosyllomorpha, Stivalidae), and new records of Ascodipterinae (Streblidae) on bats and other small mammals from Luzon, The Philippines
During May 2009 and July 2011, we collected 357 mammals and examined each for ectoparasites. Among the ectoparasites collected, a new species of flea was discovered. This new species, Lentistivalius philippinensis, is described from the male sex only. Two males were recovered from two specimens of the soricid Crocidura grayi Dobson in Municipality Maria Aurora, Aurora Province, Luzon, Philippines. Additional fleas included Thaumapsylla breviceps orientalis Smit, Thaumapsylla longiforceps Traub, and Ischnopsyllus indicus Jordan. Although the latter species is common in Japan and documented in Guam (as well as mainland Southeast Asia) also on Pipistrellus javanicus (Gray), I. indicus represents a new record in the Philippine Islands. The ascodipterinae (Streblidae) Maabella stomalata and Ascodipteron speiserianum Muir collected from Rhinolophus inops K. Andersen and Rhinolophus subrufus K. Andersen, respectively, also represent new host records. A key to the species of the flea genus Lentistivalius Traub is provided.
["Ascodipteron"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies"]

First record of Acrocyrtus Yosii, 1959 (Collemobla, Entomobryidae) from Chinese mainland
The genus Acrocrytus is reported from Chinese mainland for the first time, with description of two new species Acrocyrtus zhujiensis sp. n. and Acrocyrtus finis sp. n. from Zhejiang Province, East China. They can be separated from other species of this genus by colour pattern, unscaled appendages (antennae, legs and ventral tube), interocular chaetae, labial basal chaetae, bothriotrichal complex chaetae on Abd. II–IV, microchaeta a2 on Abd. II, im on Abd. III and C1p on Abd. IV. Illustrations and a table showing main differences with closest Acrocyrtus species are provided.
["A. zhujiensis sp. n."]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Cochylis Treitschke in China: one new species and five new records (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae, Cochylini)
Six species of Cochylis Treitschke, 1829 are recorded for China. Among them, C. triangula sp. n. is described as new; C. atricapitana (Stephens, 1852), C. discerta Razowski, 1970, C. dubitana (Hübner, [1799]), C. faustana (Kennel, 1919) and C. posterana hyrcana (Toll, 1948) are recorded for the first time for China. The female of C. discerta Razowski, 1970 is described for the first time. Adults and genitalia are illustrated, a key is given for the identification of Chinese species based on male genitalia.

Hispaniolan Hemilophini (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
The Tribe Hemilophini (Lamiinae) is reviewed for Hispaniola and an identification key is provided. Fifteen species are now known from the island, including one new species of Adesmus (A. fortunei from Pedernales and La Vega Provinces, Dominican Republic), one new species of Oedudes (O. anulatus from Peravia and La Vega Provinces, Dominican Republic), and five new species of Calocosmus (C. contortus from San Cristóbal Province, C. punctatus from Peravia Province, C. rawlinsi from Elías Piña Province, C. robustus from La Vega Province, and C. thonalmus from La Altagracia Province, all in the Dominican Republic). Oedudes and Adesmus are new island and country records for Hispaniola and Dominican Republic, respectively. Calocosmus holosericeus Gahan is a new synonym of Calocosmus janus Bates. In addition to the new species, five new country records and four new island records are presented for Calocosmus.
["Longhorned woodborers"]

A new species of Aeneator Finlay, 1926 (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Buccinidae) from northern Chile, with comments on the genus and a key to the Chilean species
A new species of the genus Aeneator Finlay, 1926 is described from off the coast of Caldera (27°S), northern Chile. Aeneator martae sp. n. has a small, broad, stout, angulated shell with more prominent axial ribs and a more obviously keeled periphery than all previously named Chilean species. Comparisons are provided with all other South American named species of Aeneator.
["New Taxa"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A redescription of Rhysida celeris (Humbert & Saussure, 1870), with a proposal of eight new synonyms (Scolopendromorpha, Scolopendridae, Otostigminae)
Seven species of the genus Rhysida Wood, 1862 from Venezuela and one subspecies from Peru described by Manuel Angel González Sponga and Wolfgang Bücherl respectively, are revised. R. caripensis González-Sponga, 2002, R. neoespartana González-Sponga, 2002, R. guayanica González-Sponga, 2002, R. maritima González-Sponga, 2002, R. monaguensis González-Sponga, 2002, R. porlamarensis González-Sponga 2002, R. sucupanensis González-Sponga, 2002 and Rhysida celeris andina Bücherl, 1953 are junior synonyms of R. celeris (Humbert & Saussure, 1870), which is redescribed and illustrated for the first time. Its geographic distribution is updated and a map showing its distribution is presented.
["Neotropic"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Ovicides paralithodis (Nemertea, Carcinonemertidae), a new species of symbiotic egg predator of the red king crab Paralithodes camtschaticus (Tilesius, 1815) (Decapoda, Anomura)
Ovicides paralithodis sp. n. is described from the egg mass of the red king crab Paralithodes camtschaticus (Tilesius, 1815) from the Sea of Okhotsk, off Hokkaido, Japan, and Alaska, USA. Among four congeners, O. paralithodis can be distinguished from O. julieae Shields, 2001 and O. davidi Shields and Segonzac, 2007 byno eyes; from O. jonesi Shields and Segonzac, 2007 by the presence of basophilic, vacuolated glandular lobes in the precerebral region; and from O. jasoni Shields and Segonzac, 2007 by the arrangement of the acidophilic submuscular glands, which are not arranged in a row. Ovicides paralithodis represents the third described species of egg-predatory nemertean from P. camtschaticus, the second described carcinonemertid species from Japan, and the 21st described species in the family. The intensity of infestations may exceed 24,000 worms per a single egg-bearing pleopod of P. camtschaticus. A preliminary molecular phylogenetic analysis based on sequences of 28S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I genes among selected monostiliferous hoplonemertean species supported the monophyly of Carcinonemertidae, suggesting that within the lineage of the family, evolution of the unique vas deferens, Takakura’s duct, preceded loss of accessory stylets and accessory-stylet pouches.
["Nemertini"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Molecular systematics of the genus Troglophilus (Rhaphidophoridae, Orthoptera) in Turkey: mitochondrial 16s rDNA evidences
This study focuses on the evolutionary relationships among Turkish species of the cave cricket genus Troglophilus. Fifteen populations were studied for sequence variation in a fragment (543 base pairs) of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) 16S rDNA gene (16S) to reconstruct their phylogenetic relationships and biogeographic history. Genetic data retrieved three main clades and at least three divergent lineages that could not be attributed to any of the taxa known for the area. Molecular time estimates suggest that the diversification of the group took place between the Messinian and the Plio-Pleistocene.
["Troglophilus"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Two new genera of nematode (Oxyurida, Hystrignathidae) parasites of Passalidae (Coleoptera) from the Democratic Republic of Congo
Two new genera and species parasitizing passalid beetles from the Democratic Republic of Congo are described. Kongonema meyeri gen. n. sp. n. is characterized byfemales with the cervical cuticle unarmed, first cephalic annule cone-like and truncate, sub-cylindrical procorpus and genital tract didelphic-amphidelphic. The males of K. meyeri gen. n. sp. n. have the procorpus sub-cylindrical, the dorsal cuticle of the tail end thickened, a single large, median mammiform pre-cloacal papilla and a pair of small, pre-cloacal, sub-lateral papillae at a short distance before the level of the cloaca. Lubanema decraemerae gen. n. sp. n. is characterized by the body markedly fusiform, cuticle unarmed and strongly annulated, procorpus sub-cylindrical, isthmus as a constriction between procorpus and basal bulb, genital tract monodelphic-prodelphic and the posterior end rounded with a very short tail appendage.
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Helminth infection and control"]

Revision of the Agrilus occipitalis species–group (Coleoptera, Buprestidae, Agrilini)
The Agrilus occipitalis species–group is redefined and diagnosed. Two species from this group, A. auriventris Saunders, 1873 and A. occipitalis (Eschscholtz, 1822), are known as the serious pests of cultivated Citrus trees. Overall twenty-three taxa are included in the A. occipitalis species–group. A complete list of references, type material, species examined and distribution is given for each taxon. The host plants, adult occurrence and altitude range is cited for most taxa. Habitus of all taxa and aedeagi of available males are pictured. Images of primary type specimens are provided. A character state matrix table for diagnostic characters is given for all taxa to facilitate their determination.The following new taxonomic and nomenclatural acts are proposed. New species: eight new species are described: Agrilus mucidus sp. n., A. nebulosus sp. n., A. picturatus sp. n., A. pluvius sp. n., A. pseudoambiguus sp. n., A. tesselatus sp. n., A. trepanatus sp. n. and A. umrongso sp. n. Proposed synonyms: eight synonyms are proposed: celebicola Obenberger, 1924, syn. n. (synonym of occipitalis Eschscholtz, 1822); connexus Kerremans, 1900, syn. n. (synonym of occipitalis Eschscholtz, 1822); cupricauda Saunders, 1867 syn. n. (synonym of occipitalis Eschscholtz, 1822); evinadus Gory & Laporte, 1839, syn. n. (synonym of occipitalis Eschscholtz, 1822); nirius Obenberger, 1924 syn. reconfirmed (synonym of occipitalis Eschscholtz, 1822); oblatus Kerremans, 1900, syn. n. (synonym of occipitalis Eschscholtz, 1822); samoensis Blair, 1928, syn. n. (synonym of auriventris Saunders, 1873); tebinganus Obenberger, 1924, syn. n. (synonym of occipitalis Eschscholtz, 1822). New lectotype designations: six lectotypes are designated: Agrilus celebicola Obenberger, 1924; A. cupricauda Saunders, 1867; A. korenskyi Obenberger, 1923; A. kurandae Obenberger, 1923; A. nirius Obenberger, 1924; A. nitidus Kerremans, 1898.
["Buprestidae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Santocellus (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae, Leucochrysini): taxonomic changes, new description, and a key to the species
Santocellus is a small Neotropical genus of leucochrysine lacewings that only recently was separated from Leucochrysa. Here, the features of the Leucochrysa risi Esben-Petersen holotype (a female) are described and shown to support the species’ transfer to Santocellus and the continued retention of the genus Santocellus as separate from Leucochrysa. The valid name for the species becomes Santocellus risi (Esben-Petersen, 1933), comb. n., and Santocellus bullata (Tauber, 2007) is recognized as a syn. n. of S. risi. Currently, this species is reported only from Peru. An illustrated key is provided for distinguishing the known species in the genus Santocellus.
["Santocellus"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Description of Trichodryas slipinskii sp. n. from China (Coleoptera, Dermestidae, Trinodinae)
Trichodryas slipinskii sp. n. from Yunnan Province of China is described and illustrated. A key to the known species of this genus is provided.

A new species of Centris (Centris) (Fabricius) from northeastern Brazil, with taxonomic notes on C. (C.) pulchra Moure, Oliveira & Viana (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
We describe a new species of the bee genus Centris, C. (C.) byrsonimae Mahlmann & Oliveira sp. n., whose name has appeared as a nomen nudum in the literature since 1985. Further, a new species group of Centris s.str. is proposed, the pulchra group, based on morphological characters, which comprises the species C. pulchra Moure, Oliveira & Viana, 2003 and C. byrsonimae sp. n.. Based on information from specimen labels studied and data from the literature, a list of plant species visited by the pulchra group is presented. The male genitalia and hidden metasomal sterna 7 and 8 of C. pulchra are described for the first time. Typographic errors pertaining to the paratype labels reported in the original description of C. pulchra are corrected. One female paratype of C. pulchra is designated herein as a paratype of C. byrsonimae sp. n. An updated list of species of Centris s.str. from northeastern Brazil is provided including references about geographic distributions as well as an identification key to the pulchra species group.

Eleven new species of theridiosomatid spiders from southern China (Araneae, Theridiosomatidae)
Two new genera of the spider family Theridiosomatidae, Alaria gen.n. with the type species Alaria chengguanensis sp. n., Menglunia gen.n. with the type species Menglunia inaffecta sp. n., are described from Guizhou and Yunnan, China. Nine more new species from Guangxi, Guizhou, Hainan and Yunnan Provinces of southern China are described: Baalzebub rastrarius sp. n., B. youyiensis sp. n., Karstia nitida sp. n., K. prolata sp. n., Ogulnius hapalus sp. n., Theridiosoma plumaria sp. n., T. triumphalis sp. n., T. vimineum sp. n., Zoma fascia sp. n. The type specimens are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing.

Taxonomic study of the genus Thisizima Walker, 1864 in China, with descriptions of two new species (Lepidoptera, Tineidae)
The taxonomic study of the genus Thisizima Walker, 1864 is carried out in China. Thisizima subceratella sp. n. and T. fasciaria sp. n. are described as new based on the specimens collected in Fujian, Hainan and Hong Kong. Detailed male and female genitalia are described for the first time for the genus. Photographs of adults and genital structures are provided. A checklist of all the described species is included.

A taxonomic study on the genus Ettchellsia Cameron, with descriptions of three new species (Hymenoptera, Megalyridae, Dinapsini)
Three new species of Ettchellsia Cameron, namely, E. ignita sp. n. from Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, E. nigripes sp. n. from Sulawesi and E. reidi sp. n. from Borneo are described and illustrated. A key to the species of Ettchellsia is provided based on females.

Two new genera and species of the termite symbiont lineage Termitohospitini (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae) from Bolivia and peninsular Malaysia
Coptotermocola clavicornis gen. & sp. n. and Neotermitosocius bolivianus gen. & sp. n. of the termite inquilinous tribe Termitohospitini are described from peninsular Malaysia and Bolivia, respectively. The Termitohospitini are most readily diagnosable by the distally migrated anterior tentorial pits that are no longer associated with the antennal fossae, and by the enlarged vertex which obscures the antennal fossae dorsally. Additionally, the Termitohospitini are hypothesized to share a recent common ancestor with the Masuriini and Myllaenini due to shared derived morphologies of the lacinia distal teeth with lateral cuticular processes, presence of a unique maxillary palpomere III sensilla, and anterolateral angles of mentum produced. Habitus photographs and illustrations of diagnostic features are provided for the two new genera in order to facilitate future work.
["Coptotermes"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

A new species of Amara (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Zabrini) from Sichuan Province, China, with additional records for other Amara species from the region
A new species, Amara (Bradytulus) shalulishanica Hieke & Kavanaugh, sp. n. (type locality: Haizishan Yakou, 29.47366°N, 100.21921°E, 4623 m, Shalulishan, Dishan Township, Litang County, Sichuan Province, China) is described and diagnosed. Additional records are provided for 16 other Amara species, each of which represents one of five different geographical distribution types, which are discussed.

Morphological and molecular taxonomy of Nidularia balachowskii Bodenheimer (Hemiptera, Coccoidea, Kermesidae) with notes on its life history in Israel
Descriptions and illustrations of the adult female and first-instar nymph of the kermesid Nidularia balachowskii Bodenheimer, based on the adult female lectotype and paralectotype (here designated), and new material collected from Israel are presented. A key for the identification of first-instar nymphs of Nidularia spp. is offered. Molecular identification of N. balachowskii, using nucleotide sequences from the D2–D3 region of the 28S ribosomal gene, and the mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) gene, is presented. Morphological and molecular analyses confirm that N. balachowskii is closely related to other species within the Kermesidae. In Israel, this species develops only on Quercus ithaburensis and is univoltine. This is the first detailed report of N. balachowskii from Israel.
["scale insect"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Acoustic analysis reveals a new cryptic bush–cricket in the Carpathian Mountains (Orthoptera, Phaneropteridae)
A new morphologically cryptic species of phaneropterid bush–cricket from the genus Isophya is described from the Eastern Carpathian Mountains: Isophya dochia sp. n. Sound analysis and morphological details are discussed in the paper, comparing the new species with several Isophya speciessimilar morphology and acoustic behavior.
["Isophya"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

Phylogenetic treatment and taxonomic revision of the trapdoor spider genus Aptostichus Simon (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Euctenizidae)
This systematic study documents the taxonomy, diversity, and distribution of 40 species of the predominately Californian trapdoor spider genus Aptostichus Simon, 1891. Thirty-three of these species are newly described: A. dantrippi, A. cabrillo, A. pennjillettei, A. asmodaeus, A. nateevansi, A. chiricahua, A. icenoglei, A. isabella, A. muiri, A. barackobamai, A. sinnombre, A. hedinorum, A. aguacaliente, A. chemehuevi, A. sarlacc, A. derhamgiulianii, A. anzaborrego, A. serrano, A. mikeradtkei, A. edwardabbeyi, A. killerdana, A. cahuilla, A. satleri, A. elisabethae, A. fornax, A. lucerne, A. fisheri, A. bonoi, A. cajalco, A. sierra, A. huntington, A. dorothealangeae, and A. chavezi. Most of these species are restricted to the California Floristic Province, a known biodiversity hotspot. Of the 40 recognized species, over half are considered to be imperiled or vulnerable and two have likely gone extinct over the past half-century; the conservation status of only 11 species is considered to be secure. Using 73 quantitative and qualitative morphological characters I propose a preliminary phylogeny for the genus that recognizes four major lineages: the Atomarius, Simus, Hesperus, and Sierra species groups. Additionally, the phylogenetic analysis indicates that adaptations favoring the invasion of the arid desert habitats of southern California have evolved multiple times across the group. The existence of both desert and non - desert species in three of the four species groups makes this genus an ideal candidate for the study of the evolutionary ecology of desert arthropods. A set of molecular characters based on the contiguous mitochondrial DNA genes 16S-tRNA valine-12S is used in an independent analysis to assist in placement of specimens into species. The taxonomy section explicitly identifies the concept employed in species delimitation. Niche based distribution models are constructed to predict the ranges of species for which an adequate number of sampling sites were known.

Notes on Michael Schülke’s pselaphine collections from China. – Tyrini. I. genera Labomimus Sharp, Linan Hlaváč and Pselaphodes Westwood (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
This paper is the first of a series that deals with Dr. Michael Schülke’s collection of Pselaphinae from China. The tyrine genera Labomimus Sharp, Linan Hlaváč and Pselaphodes Westwood are chosen for the first part. The study revealed fourteen new species, all described and illustrated: Labomimus cognatus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan), Labomimus dabashanus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Hubei, Shaanxi), Labomimus mirus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan), Labomimus paratorus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Shaanxi), Labomimus sarculus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan), Labomimus schuelkei Yin & Li, sp. n. (Shaanxi), Labomimus vespertilio Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan), Linan tendothorax Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan), Pselaphodes distincticornis Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan), Pselaphodes erlangshanus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Sichuan), Pselaphodes flexus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan), Pselaphodes tibialis Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan), Pselaphodes venustus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan) and Pselaphodes zhongdianus Yin & Li, sp. n. (Yunnan). Pselaphodes jizushanus Yin, Li & Zhao is recorded from a new locality in Yunnan and its aedeagus is newly illustrated; new province records for Pselaphodes nomurai Yin, Li & Zhao is provided. Labomimus torus (Yin, Li & Zhao), comb. n. is moved from Pselaphodes after an examination of the holotype. Species represented only by unassociated females are listed with label data.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Five new apterous species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from the Baishanzu Natural Reserve, East China
Five new apterous species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst, 1802 from Baishanzu Natural Reserve, Zhejiang, East China, L. baishanzuense sp. n., L. immanissimum sp. n., L. obstipum sp. n., L. pilosum sp. n. and L. tangi sp. n., are described and illustrated. The Lathrobium fauna of the study region is represented by two distinct lineages.

Taxonomy of new relatives of Onthophagus catenatus Lansberge, 1883 from New Guinea (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae)
Four new taxa from New Guinea are proposed in the dung beetle genus Onthophagus Latreille, 1802, all in the operational group of O. catenatus Lansberge, 1883. The group is discussed, defined, and the five taxa included are listed, keyed, and diagnosed. Three new species are described: Onthophagus abmisibilus (from West New Guinea, Indonesia), O. kokodanus, O. kokosquamatus (both from Papua New Guinea). One new species comprises a lowland and an upland subspecies: O. kokodanus kokodanus and kokodanus hagenaltus (both in Papua New Guinea).
["Onthophagus"]

A new species of Lathrolestes (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from Ecuadorian Amazonia, with a key to the Neotropical species of the genus
Here we describe and illustrate a new parasitoid wasp species, Lathrolestes gauldi sp. n. from the lowland rainforest of eastern Ecuador and provide a key to the Neotropical species of the genus. This is the first record of the subfamily Ctenopelmatinae from Ecuador.
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

On the identity of the type species of the genus Telema (Araneae, Telemidae)
Telema tenella Simon, 1882, the type species of genus Telema, is the only species of family Telemidae reported from Europe and all other 39 congeners occur far from it. However, it has never been properly described. In this paper T. tenella is redescribed and illustrated.

Introduction of the Exocelina ekari-group with descriptions of 22 new species from New Guinea (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Copelatinae)
The Exocelina ekari-group is here introduced and defined mainly on the basis of a discontinuous outline of the median lobe of the aedeagus. The group is known only from New Guinea (Indonesia and Papua New Guinea). It contained four species to date: E. astrophallus (Balke, 1998), E. atowaso (Shaverdo, Sagata & Balke, 2005), E. munaso (Shaverdo, Sagata & Balke, 2005), and E. polita (Sharp, 1882). Twenty two new species are described herein: E. alexanderi sp. n., E. anggiensis sp. n., E. arfakensis sp. n., E. bifida sp. n., E. brahminensis sp. n., E. bundiensis sp. n., E. edeltraudae sp. n., E. ekari sp. n., E. eme sp. n., E. evelyncheesmanae sp. n., E. hansferyi sp. n., E. irianensis sp. n., E. kakapupu sp. n., E. knoepfchen sp. n., E. oceai sp. n., E. pseudosoppi sp. n., E. soppi sp. n., E. unipo sp. n., E. utowaensis sp. n., E. waigeoensis sp. n., E. weylandensis sp. n., and E. wondiwoiensis sp. n. The lectotype of Copelatus politus Sharp, 1882 is designated. A checklist and identification key to all species of the group are provided and important diagnostic characters (habitus, color, male antennae and protarsomeres 4–5, median lobes and parameres) are illustrated. Data on the distribution and habitat requirements are given. Representatives of the E. ekari-group are so far mostly known from lowland to lower montane habitats of the northern and central parts of New Guinea, the group is less diverse in higher altitudes.
["Exocelina ekari-group"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new species of Bembidion (Ecuadion) from Ecuador (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Bembidiini), with a key to members of the georgeballi species group
A new species of ground beetle, Bembidion ricei, is described from the Andes mountains of Ecuador east of Quito. It belongs to the georgeballi species group of subgenus Ecuadion, and is most similar to B. georgeballi. A key to the species of the group is provided.
["Bembidion"]

Species of the genus Lamachus Förster (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) parasitizing diprionid sawflies (Hymenoptera, Diprionidae) with descriptions of two new species and a key to Chinese species
Four species of the genus Lamachus Förster 1869 belonging to the tribe Mesoleiini of the subfamily Ctenopelmatinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) are reported from China. Two of them are new to science, L. nigrus Li, Sheng & Sun, sp. n. and L. rufiabdominalis Li, Sheng & Sun, sp. n. were reared from Neodiprion huizeensis Xiao & Zhou, in Guizhou Province of the Oriental part of China. The biology of L. rufiabdominalis is described. A key to the species of Lamachus known from China is provided.
["Ctenopelmatinae"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A revision of the new world species of Gymnoclasiopa Hendel (Diptera, Ephydridae)
Species of the shore-fly genus Gymnoclasiopa Hendel from the New World are revised, including G. grecorum, sp. n. (Alaska. Juneau: Gastineau Channel, Thane Road (S Juneau; 58°16.9’N, 134°22.4’W)) and G. matanuska, sp. n. (Alaska. Matanuska-Susitna: Palmer (Matanuska River; 61°36.5’N, 149°04.1’W)). We also clarify the status of previously described species, including those now discovered to have Holarctic distributions and/or for which sexual dimorphism was not appreciated and the species was described twice, including G. montana (Cresson) as a syn. n. of G. bohemanni (Becker). Two species, G. bella (Mathis), comb. n., and G. chiapas (Mathis), comb. n., are transferred from Ditrichophora to Gymnoclasiopa, and D. cana Cresson rev. stat. and D. canifrons Cresson stat. rev. are returned to Ditrichophora, the genus in which Cresson originally described them. A neotype is designated for G. tacoma to stabilize the nomenclature of this species. The two excluded species, D. cana and D. canifrons, are diagnosed and distributional data are also provided. For all known New World species of Gymnoclasiopa, structures of the male terminalia are described for the first time and are fully illustrated. Detailed locality data and distribution maps are also included. To provide context and also to facilitate identification, diagnoses are included for the tribe Discocerinini and genus in addition to a key to the genera and species occurring in the New World.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Plant and animal studies"]

Known unknowns, Google Earth, plate tectonics and Mt Bellenden Ker: some thoughts on locality data
Latitude/longitude data in locality records should be published with spatial uncertainties, datum(s) used and indications of how the data were obtained. Google Earth can be used to locate sampling sites, but the underlying georegistration of the satellite image should be checked. The little-known relabelling of a set of landmarks on Mt Bellenden Ker, a scientifically important collecting locality in tropical north Queensland, Australia, is documented as an example of the importance of checking records not accompanied by appropriately accurate latitude/longitude data.
["spatial data"]
["Geochemistry and Geologic Mapping", "Geographic Information Systems Studies"]

A new species of Rhytidognathus (Carabidae, Migadopini) from Argentina
The Migadopini are a small tribe of Carabidae with 47 species that occur in South America, Australia, and New Zealand, in the sub-Antarctic areas. In South America, most of the genera inhabit areas related to sub-Antartic Nothofagus forest except two monogeneric genera, the Ecuadorian genus Aquilex Moret and the Pampean genus Rhytidognathus Chaudoir. These two genera are geographically isolated from the remaining five South American genera. New material of Rhytidognathus from the northeast of Buenos Aires province and from Entre Ríos province permits establishing that the previous records of Rhytidognathus ovalis (Dejean) for Argentina were erroneous and that it belongs to a new species. Based on external morphological characters and from male and female genitalia we describe Rhytidognathus platensis as a new species. In this contribution we provide illustrations, keys, habitat characteristics and some biogeographic considerations on the distribution of Rhytidognathus.
["Migadopini"]

High mitochondrial DNA sequence divergence in New Guinea Carabdytes stream beetles and the taxonomist’s dilemma when other evidence is kind of subtle… (and collecting localities are far far away)
Carabdytes upin tindige ssp. n. is described from the Arfak Mountains, Bird’s Head, Indonesian Papua. It is morphologically very similar to Carabdytes upin upin Balke et al., 1992, known from eastern Indonesian Papua eastward to the western limits of the Papuan Peninsula of Papua New Guinea. For 726 bp at the 3’ end of the mitochondrial cox1 gene, the subspecies differ by 8.1–9.2% uncorrected p-distance. However, we also document considerable cox1 divergence within Carabdytes upin upin. We find few diagnostic positions in the nuclear genes argenine kinase as well as elongation factor 1 alpha that suggest there are indeed two isolated groups of Carabdytes, but evidence in elongation factor 1 alpha is not unambiguous. We decided to highlight this phenomenon of ambiguous evidence for ongoing/just attained speciation by describing a subspecies. We argue that such cases are actually common once mitochondrial sequence data are routinely added to the taxonomist’s toolkit, and sometimes simply adding data from few nuclear genes will not suffice the solve taxonomic riddles. Here, detailed population genetic investigations would be required – for which sufficient numbers of specimens from a sufficiently wide geographical sampling might be nearly impossible to acquire.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Four new species of splanchnotrophid copepods (Poecilostomatoida) parasitic on doridacean nudibranchs (Gastropoda, Opistobranchia) from Japan, with proposition of one new genus
Four new species of splanchnotrophid copepods are described based on specimens collected from 5 species of doridacean nudibranchs from coastal waters of Japan. They belong to 3 genera, one of which, Majimun gen. n., is new. The parasites and their hosts are as follows: Ceratosomicola japonica sp. n. ex Hypselodoris festiva (A. Adams); Splanchnotrophus helianthus sp. n. ex Thecacera pennigera (Montagu); S. imagawai sp. n. ex Trapania miltabrancha Gosliner & Fahey; and Majimun shirakawai gen. et sp. n. ex Roboastra luteolineata (Baba) and R. gracilis (Bergh). Ceratosomicola japonica sp. n. is the fifth species of Ceratosomicola and is characterized by the shape and armature of the prosome in females. Both S. helianthus sp. n. and S. imagawai sp. n. are differentiated from 4 known congeners by the absence of posterolateral processes or lobes on the prosome in females, and the females of these 2 new species are separated from each other by the shape and armature of the genito-abdomen, the mandible, and the swimming legs. Majimun gen. n. is distinguished from other splanchnotrophid genera by the segmentation of the antennule as well as the combination of the following characters in females: 2 postgenital somites and the shape of the antenna, the mandible and the swimming legs.
["parasitic Copepoda"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

Two new species of Neozoanthus (Cnidaria, Hexacorallia, Zoantharia) from the Pacific
The zoanthid genus Neozoanthus was originally described in 1972 from a single species in Madagascar. This monotypic genus was placed within its own family, Neozoanthidae, given its unusual characters of only partial sand encrustation, and an endodermal sphincter muscle combined with a brachycnemic mesenterial arrangement. Recently, undescribed specimens of Neozoanthus were discovered thousands of kilometers away in both Australia and Japan. While the phylogenetic and evolutionary aspects of Neozoanthus spp. are now somewhat well understood, the new specimens remained undescribed. Here we describe the specimens as two new species, N. uchina sp. n. from the Middle Ryukyu Islands of southern Japan, and N. caleyi sp. n. from the waters around Heron Island, on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Both species can be distinguished from each other and the type species, N. tulearensis, by their distributions, oral disk colors, and average numbers of tentacles. Additionally, each species appears to have subtle differences in their cnidae. The division of Japanese and Australian specimens into two species is strongly supported by recently reported phylogenetic data. The discovery and description of these two species highlights how little is known of zoanthid species diversity in the Indo-Pacific.
["Zoanthid"]

Reptiles from Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Maranhão, northeastern Brazil
We are presenting a list of the reptile species from Lençóis Maranhenses National Park (LMNP), Maranhão, Brazil, obtained during 235 days of field work. The study area is located in the contact zone between three major Neotropical ecosystems: Amazonia, Caatinga, and Cerrado. The PNLM encompasses the largest dune fields in Brazil, wide shrubby areas (restingas), lakes, mangroves, and many freshwater lagoons. We have recorded 42 species of reptiles in the area: 24 snakes, 12 lizards, two worm lizards, three turtles, and one alligator. About 81 % of the recorded species occurred only in restinga areas. Our data highlights the uniqueness of the PNLM in the context of the biomes that surround it and shows the importance of efforts to improve the conservation of reptiles living in the restinga, which currently comprise only about 20 % of the total area protected by the park, but which are the mesohabitat containing most of the reptile species in the Lençóis Maranhenses complex of habitats.
["richness"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new species of Lesticus Dejean, 1828 (Coleoptera, Carabidae) from the Finisterre Range, Papua New Guinea and a key to the genera of pterostichine-like Harpalinae of New Guinea
Lesticus finisterrae (Carabidae: Pterostichini) sp. n. (type locality: Finisterre Range, Papua New Guinea), is described and characters to differentiate it from other “Trigonotomi” species are given. A key to the genera of pterostichine-like Harpalinae of the island, including all genera of Morionini, Cratocerini, Drimostomatini, Abacetini, Loxandrini and Pterostichini, is provided. The genus Rhytisternus (Pterostichini) is for the first time reported from New Guinea, represented by the likely adventive species Rhytisternus laevis (Macleay). The previously unknown male of Stegazopteryx ivimkaensis Will (Drimostomatini) is described.
["New Guinea"]

A new species of parasitic copepod, Sarcotretes umitakae sp. n. (Siphonostomatoida, Pennellidae), on the rattail (Actinopterygii, Macrouridae) from the East China Sea, Japan
A new species of copepod, Sarcotretes umitakae sp. n., of the siphonostomatoid family Pennellidae is described based on female specimens from the rattail Coelorinchus jordani Smith and Pope (Actinopterygii: Gadiformes: Macrouridae) caught in the East China Sea. This species is characterized by exhibiting the following characters: the large proboscis projects strongly; the head bears paired lateral processes which are bulbous and taper into a slender horn; the twisting neck is significantly longer than the trunk; and the trunk bears an anterior constriction with a reduced abdomen.
["mesoparasitic copepods"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Catalogue of Geadephaga (Coleoptera: Adephaga) of America, north of Mexico
All scientific names of Trachypachidae, Rhysodidae, and Carabidae (including cicindelines) recorded from America north of Mexico are catalogued. Available species-group names are listed in their original combinations with the author(s), year of publication, page citation, type locality, location of the name-bearing type, and etymology for many patronymic names. In addition, the reference in which a given species-group name is first synonymized is recorded for invalid taxa. Genus-group names are listed with the author(s), year of publication, page citation, type species with way of fixation, and etymology for most. The reference in which a given genus-group name is first synonymized is recorded for many invalid taxa. Family-group names are listed with the author(s), year of publication, page citation, and type genus. The geographical distribution of all species-group taxa is briefly summarized and their state and province records are indicated.One new genus-group taxon, Randallius new subgenus (type species: Chlaenius purpuricollis Randall, 1838), one new replacement name, Pterostichus amadeus new name for Pterostichus vexatus Bousquet, 1985, and three changes in precedence, Ellipsoptera rubicunda (Harris, 1911) for Ellipsoptera marutha (Dow, 1911), Badister micans LeConte, 1844 for Badister ocularis Casey, 1920, and Agonum deplanatum Ménétriés, 1843 for Agonum fallianum (Leng, 1919), are proposed. Five new genus-group synonymies and 65 new species-group synonymies, one new species-group status, and 12 new combinations (see Appendix 5) are established.The work also includes a discussion of the notable private North American carabid collections, a synopsis of all extant world geadephagan tribes and subfamilies, a brief faunistic assessment of the fauna, a list of valid species-group taxa, a list of North American fossil Geadephaga (Appendix 1), a list of North American Geadephaga larvae described or illustrated (Appendix 2), a list of Geadephaga species described from specimens mislabeled as from North America (Appendix 3), a list of unavailable Geadephaga names listed from North America (Appendix 4), a list of nomenclatural acts included in this catalogue (Appendix 5), a complete bibliography with indication of the dates of publication in addition to the year, and indices of personal names, supraspecific names, and species-group names.
["Ground beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

A new species of blunt-headed vine snake (Colubridae, Imantodes) from the Chocó region of Ecuador
We describe a new species of Imantodes from the Chocó region of northwestern Ecuador. The new species differs most significantly from all other congeners in lacking a loreal scale. We analyze the phylogenetic relationships among species of Imantodes based on two mitochondrial genes, and postulate that the new species and I. lentiferus are sister taxa. A key to the species of Imantodes from Ecuador is presented.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies"]

Notes on the genus Taridius Chaudoir, 1875 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini), with descriptions of six new species from Vietnam
Six new species of the genus Taridius Chaudoir, 1875 (Coleoptera, Carabidae) are described from Vietnam: T. ornatus sp. n., T. piceus sp. n., T. fasciatus sp. n., T. abdominalis sp. n., T. coriaceus sp.n., and T. disjunctus sp. n.. The generic characters are redescribed, based on fresh material, with a key provided to all congeners.
["Historical Art and Architecture Studies", "Historical Studies of Medieval Iberia", "Architecture and Art History Studies"]

A new species of Nitocra Boeck 1865 (Harpacticoida, Ameiridae, Ameirinae) from South Africa, with notes on its ecology and remarks on the status of Nitocra sewelli husmanni Kunz 1976
A new species of the genus Nitocra Boeck, 1865, Nitocra taylori sp. n. is described from the St Lucia Estuary, Africa’s largest estuarine lake. It is also suggested that Nitocra sewelli husmanni Kunz, 1976 and N. reducta fluviatilis Galhano, 1968 are granted full species rank as N. husmanni stat. n. Kunz, 1976 and N. fluviatilis stat. n. Galhano, 1968. Nitocra taylori sp. n. appears to be closely related to N. husmanni. Unfortunately, the original description of the micro-characters of the species lacks the detail needed to make reliable comparisons between species of the genus Nitocra. The main differences observed are the number of spinules along the posterior margin of the anal operculum, length ratio of the exopod and endopod of the first swimming leg, shape of the outer spine on the male third endopodal segment of the third swimming leg, number of segments of the male antennule, relative length of the setae on the male baseoendopod of the fifth leg, shape of the male exopod of the fifth leg, relative length of the two setae of the male sixth leg, and shape of the female baseoendopod of the fifth leg. The current distribution of N. taylori sp. n. is limited to the lake part of the estuary, an area which is most severely affected by the current freshwater deprivation crisis. During closed mouth conditions, these regions (South/North Lake and False Bay) are characterized by low water levels, high salinities and high turbidity levels. This suggests that N. taylori sp. n. may favor these environmental conditions and the significant correlations found between the abundance of N. taylori sp. n. and salinity and turbidity confirm this to a degree. Nitocra taylori sp. n. individuals are also able to withstand a wide range of fluctuations. They were recorded at turbidities ranging from 2 to 102 NTU, temperatures from 20.9 to 34.8 ºC and salinity levels ranging from 9.81 to 53.7 psu. However, in the current state of the system, salinity and temperature levels in the northern regions frequently exceed this value. Continued freshwater deprivation may, therefore, further limit the distribution range of this species.
["Nitocra"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Description of three new Triaenodes species from Fiji (Trichoptera, Leptoceridae)
The following three new species are illustrated and described from Fiji: Triaenodes rebellus Eriksson & Johanson, sp. n., Triaenodes oscitus Müller & Johanson, sp. n., and Triaenodes forcipatus Puranen Li & Johanson, sp. n. All species are endemic to Viti Levu. A key to the male Triaenodes species of Fiji is provided. With this report, the number of Triaenodes species known from Fiji is doubled.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A new genus and new species of Agathotanaidae (Crustacea, Tanaidacea) from West Australia
A new genus of Tanaidacea – Bunburia, collected from the region of Ningaloo in the vicinity of Bunbury (Western Australia), is erected to accommodate the new species – B. prima sp. n. This genus is classified in the family Agathotanaidae and it can be distinguished from the other members of the family bya combination of antennulae covered with minute setae, reduced uropods and unusual setation of the propodus of pereopods 4 to 6. B. prima is the second species of Agathotanaidae known so far from Australia.
["Bunburia"]

Taxonomic and faunistic studies on the genus Harutaeographa (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Orthosiini) with description of a new species
Description of a new Harutaeographa Yoshimoto, 1993 species, Harutaeographa shui sp. n. from China’s Sichuan province, is given. Harutaeographa yangzisherpani transformis Hreblay & Ronkay, 1999 is combined as a synonym of Harutaeographa yangzisherpani yangzisherpani Hreblay & Ronkay, 1999. Additional distributional data for Harutaeographa pallida Yoshimoto, 1993, and Harutaeographa cinerea Hreblay & Ronkay, 1998 are provided. A checklist of the genus Harutaeographa and a key to the Harutaeographa fasciculata (Hampson, 1894) species-group, based on external characters and genitalia, are presented.
["Orthosiini"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A new species of Schrankia Hübner, 1825 from China (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Hypenodinae)
A new species of the genus Schrankia Hübner, 1825, S. pelicano sp. n. is described from Sichuan, China. A diagnostic comparison is made with Schrankia taenialis (Hübner, [1809]) and Schrankia separatalis (Herz, 1904); illustrations of the male holotype and its genitalia are provided. A checklist of the genus with synonyms is given.

Neoethilla, a new genus for the first record of the Ethillini from the New World (Diptera, Tachinidae, Exoristinae)
New genus Neoethilla gen. n., is described to include two New World nominal species formerly recognized as valid species in Winthemia Robineau-Desvoidy: Exorista ignobilis van der Wulp and Winthemia antennalis Coquillett. Winthemia antennalis is proposed as a junior synonym of Exorista ignobilis syn. n. Neoethilla ignobilis comb. n. is removed from the Winthemiini and placed in the tribe Ethillini (Exoristinae) based on a study of the external features of adults, male terminalia, female reproductive system, and egg morphology. The small tribe Ethillini, not hitherto known from the New World, currently comprises fourteen genera worldwide. The phylogeny and systematics of the Ethillini and their relationships with related tribes are discussed and documented by descriptions and illustrations of relevant character states.
["Ethillini"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Compilation of morphological and molecular data, a necessity for taxonomy: The case of Hormogaster abbatissae sp. n. (Annelida, Clitellata, Hormogastridae)
Conflict among data sources can be frequent in evolutionary biology, especially in cases where one character set poses limitations to resolution. Earthworm taxonomy, for example, remains a challenge because of the limited number of morphological characters taxonomically valuable. An explanation to this may be morphological convergence due to adaptation to a homogeneous habitat, resulting in high degrees of homoplasy. This sometimes impedes clear morphological diagnosis of species. Combination of morphology with molecular techniques has recently aided taxonomy in many groups difficult to delimit morphologically. Here we apply an integrative approach by combining morphological and molecular data, including also some ecological features, to describe a new earthworm species in the family Hormogastridae, Hormogaster abbatissae sp. n., collected in Sant Joan de les Abadesses (Girona, Spain). Its anatomical and morphological characters are discussed in relation to the most similar Hormogastridae species, which are not the closest species in a phylogenetic analysis of molecular data. Species delimitation using the GMYC method and genetic divergences with the closest species are also considered. The information supplied by the morphological and molecular sources is contradictory, and thus we discuss issues with species delimitation in other similar situations. Decisions should be based on a profound knowledge of the morphology of the studied group but results from molecular analyses should also be considered.
["Species description"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Study of Mite Species"]

A redescription of the leggiest animal, the millipede Illacme plenipes, with notes on its natural history and biogeography (Diplopoda, Siphonophorida, Siphonorhinidae)
With up to 750 legs, the millipede Illacme plenipes Cook and Loomis, 1928 is the leggiest animal known on Earth. It is endemic to the northwestern foothills of the Gabilan Range in San Benito County, California, where it is the only known species of the family Siphonorhinidae in the Western Hemisphere. Illacme plenipes is only known from 3 localities in a 4.5 km2 area; the 1926 holotype locality is uncertain. Individuals of the species are strictly associated with large arkose sandstone boulders, and are extremely rare, with only 17 specimens known to exist in natural history collections. In contrast with its small size and unassuming outward appearance, the microanatomy of the species is strikingly complex. Here we provide a detailed redescription of the species, natural history notes, DNA barcodes for I. plenipes and similar-looking species, and a predictive occurrence map of the species inferred using niche based distribution modeling. Based on functional morphology of related species, the extreme number of legs is hypothesized to be associated with a life spent burrowing deep underground, and clinging to the surface of sandstone boulders.
["California Floristic Province"]
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Synopsis of the Argentinian scarab genus Pseudogeniates Ohaus (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae)
The scarab beetle genus Pseudogeniates Ohaus (Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Rutelini) is endemic to Argentina. The genus includes three species: P. cordobaensis Soula, P. intermedius Ohaus, and P. richterianus Ohaus. We characterize the genus, provide a key to species, redescribe and diagnose each species, provide spatial and temporal distributions, and discuss distributions of the species in relation to eco-regions and areas of endemism in Argentina.

Revision of the genus Buchneria (Bryozoa, Cheilostomata) from Japan
Buchneria dofleini (Buchner, 1924), type species of Buchneria Harmer, 1957, was first described from material collected in 1904–1905 from Sagami Bay, Japan, but the type specimens had not been reexamined since the original description. In this study, I examined specimens of Buchneria from historical collections and material recently collected near Akkeshi, Hokkaido, Japan. Three Buchneria species were detected, two from Sagami Bay that Ortmann (1890) had placed in Escharoides, and one from Akkeshi that Androsova (1958) had described as Porella variabilis. I concluded that Buchneria dofleini is a junior synonym of Escharoides teres Ortmann, 1890; selected a lectotype for E. teres among Ortmann’s syntypes; and established the new combination Buchneria teres (Ortmann, 1890), which becomes the type species of Buchneria. I also established the new combination Buchneria rhomboidalis (Ortmann, 1890) and selected a lectotype among Ortmann’s syntypes. Porella variabilis is transferred to Buchneria establishing the new combination Buchneria variabilis (Androsova, 1958). Here the three new combinations are redescribed and a key to the Japanese Buchneria species is provided. Finally, I transferred Buchneria to Bryocryptellidae on the basis of ovicell and orifice morphology. Therefore, Buchneria now includes a total of three species; B. sinuata Harmer, 1957, a species from Indonesia that has hitherto been placed in this genus, is almost certainly not congeneric with other Buchneria. As far as is now known, Buchneria is endemic to northern Japan and the northern Sea of Japan.
["Buchneria dofleini"]

New Australian stiletto flies: revision of Manestella Metz and description of Medomega gen. n. (Diptera, Therevidae, Agapophytinae)
The previously monotypic genus Manestella Metz, 2003 is revised with a single species, M. tristriata (Mann, 1933), redescribed and an additional 14 new species described: Manestella caesia sp. n., M. campestris sp. n., M. canities sp. n., M. cooloola sp. n., M. fumosa sp. n., M. incompleta sp. n., M. nubis sp. n., M. obscura sp. n., M. ocellaris sp. n., M. persona sp. n., M. poecilothorax sp. n., M. umbrapennis sp. n., M. vasta sp. n. and M. vespera sp. n. The putative sister genus to Manestella, Medomega gen. n., is described containing six new species: Medomega averyi sp. n., M. bailmeup sp. n., M. chlamydos sp. n., M. danielsi sp. n., M. gigasathe sp. n., and M. nebrias sp. n. Complete taxonomic descriptions were generated from a character matrix developed in Lucid Builder from which natural language descriptions (NLD) were parsed. Images of all species of Manestella and Medomega gen. n. are included, along with dichotomous keys to species.
["Asiloidea"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Six new species of Agrilus Curtis, 1825 (Coleoptera, Buprestidae, Agrilinae) from the Oriental Region related to the emerald ash borer, A. planipennis Fairmaire, 1888 and synonymy of Sarawakita Obenberger, 1924
Six new species of Agrilus Curtis, 1825 with affinities to the emerald ash borer, A. planipennis Fairmaire, 1888, are described from the Oriental Region: A. crepuscularis sp. n. (Malaysia); A. pseudolubopetri sp.n. (Laos); A. sapphirinus sp. n. (Laos); A. seramensis sp. n. (Indonesia); A. spineus sp. n. (Malaysia); and A. tomentipennis sp. n. (Laos). The genus Sarawakita Obenberger, 1924 syn. nov. is considered a junior synonym of Agrilus.
["Agrilus"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Polyaxone monaxonids: revision of raspailiid sponges with polyactine megascleres (Cyamon and Trikentrion)
Among the thousands of non-tetractinellid (monaxonid) Demospongiae species, less than twenty possess polyactine (usually three- or four-claded) megascleres. These are currently assigned to two closely related genera, viz. Cyamon Gray and Trikentrion Ehlers, both members of the raspailiid subfamily Cyamoninae. The two genera are considered valid on account of differences in the shape and the ornamentation of the polyaxone spicules. Cyamon predominantly has four-claded equiangular spicules with all cladi spined or rugose, whereas Trikentrion usually has a majority of three-claded spicules on which spines are found only on a single basal clade. Nevertheless, the differences between the two genera appear to overlap in several known and newly discovered species, necessitating a revision of the two groups. Two new species of Cyamon were found to occur on inshore sandstone platforms off the coast of Mauritania. One of the new species, Cyamon amphipolyactinum sp. n., possesses unique small ‘double’ polyactine spicules in addition to the usual calthrops-like polyactine megascleres characteristic for Cyamon. The second new species, Cyamon arguinense sp. n., possesses polyactine megascleres of which only one of the cladi is spined the remaining three or more cladi being smooth, a feature that is considered characteristic of sponges of the genus Trikentrion. The type species of Cyamon, C. vickersii (Bowerbank) appears to have been misinterpreted as a Caribbean species, because circumstantial evidence strongly indicates an Indian Ocean origin. This has the consequence that specimens recorded subsequently under the name C. vickersii from various Western Atlantic localities are reassigned to Cyamon agnani (Boury-Esnault), a species originally described from Brazil. A new species, reported as Cyamon vickersii sensu Burton & Rao from the east coast of India, and available to us only as a single thick section mounted on a glass slide, is named Cyamon hamatum sp. n. The Cyamon membership of the only deep-sea species, Cyamon spinispinosum (Topsent) is drawn in doubt due to considerable morphological deviation from mainstream Cyamon. The type species of Trikentrion, T. muricatum (Pallas), is extensively described and discussed, and a neotype is assigned. West African Trikentrion laeve (Carter) is for the first time since its original description properly redescribed from the type material. The specimen recorded by Burton as Trikentrion laeve from Congo turned out to be different from the original material of Carter and is assigned to a new species, Trikentrion africanum sp. n. All species of both genera considered valid are reviewed, mostly based on the examination of type or other original specimens. Our revision shows the existence of twelve species of Cyamon and six species of Trikentrion. A key to the species is provided and remarks on the geographic distribution of both genera are made. Based on our study, the differences between Cyamon and Trikentrion are re-evaluated. Only one character absolutely distinguishes the two genera, the presence (Trikentrion) or absence (Cyamon) of trichodragmata. A further discriminating character is the possession of short thick styles (most Cyamon species) versus thick oxeas (many Trikentrion), but this is complicated by absence of the oxeas in three Trikentrion species. Although spination of the polyactine spicules in itself cannot serve to distinguish the two genera with certainty, those of Trikentrion are usually recognizable by excessive hook-like spines against a finer spination in Cyamon. Possibly, the polyactine spicules of both groups are non-homologous, with Cyamon polyactines derived from styles and Trikentrion polyactines from oxeas, but this remains to be further investigated.
["Sponges"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Psechrus kunmingensis: description of male and supplementary description of female, with discussion on intraspecific variation (Araneae, Psechridae, Psechrus)
Psechrus kunmingensis Yin, Wang & Zhang, 1985 was first described from the female only. The first illustration of the male appeared without any text description and lacked other critical information. For this study, we collected fresh specimens of this species from diverse localities around Yunnan Province, China. Here, the male is described in detail for the first time and a supplementary description of the female is given. Based on the largest collection of P. kunmingensis specimens ever assembled, we found a remarkably high level of morphological variation in this species.

Two new species of Tornidae (Caenogastropoda, Rissooidea) from Espírito Santo, Brazil
Two new species of shallow water Tornidae are found in Espírito Santo state, Brazil, formally described herein. They belong to a complex group of tiny gastropods, in such the taxonomy is very confused. Cyclostremiscus mohicanus sp. n. is characterized by three well-developed spiral, equidistant carinas, working as base of three series of tall, aligned periostracal rods. Episcinia itanhuna sp. n. has as single sculpture a series of pustules in periphery, but the periostracum bears three series of peripheral fringes with irregular rods. The new species are compared with the allies, showing a close relation with Caribbean fauna, but possessing worthy differences. These similarities have raised misidentifications.
["Tornidae"]

First record in the Tropical Eastern Pacific of the exotic species Ficopomatus uschakovi (Polychaeta, Serpulidae)
The exotic Indo-West-Pacific species, Ficopomatus uschakovi (Polychaeta, Serpulidae) is recorded for the first time in the Tropical Eastern Pacific from two sites in La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve, Chiapas, a coastal lagoon in the Pacific south of Mexico. The means of dispersal of this serpulid species still remains unclear, as the nearest port (Puerto Chiapas) is 70 km to the south, and there are no port installations or shrimp cultures in the lagoon. The record of this serpulid species, apparently widely distributed in this coastal lagoon, has implications regarding possible effects on the brackish-water ecosystem, since the invasion event very well may have occurred several years ago. It is recommended that an exhaustive study be carried out in the coastal lagoons of Chiapas to evaluate the real distribution and the effects of this invasive species on the ecosystem. A complete description, including photographs and drawings, is provided.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Description and phylogeny of Namalycastis jaya sp. n. (Polychaeta, Nereididae, Namanereidinae) from the southwest coast of India
Namalycastis jaya sp. n. (Polychaeta: Nereididae: Namanereidinae) is described from the southern coast of Kerala in southwest India. One important characteristic feature of the species is the lack of notochaetae in all parapodia, a characteristic that it shares with at least two other species, Namalycastis elobeyensis Glasby, 1999 and Namalycastis hawaiiensis Johnson, 1903. It differs from N. elobeyensis by virtue of its smaller antennae, unequal eye size, bilobed acicular neuropodial ligule and multi-incised pygidium rim. Moreover, it differs from N. hawaiiensis byfewer teeth on the serrated blades of the sub-neuroacicular falciger in chaetiger 10, and by possessing finely serrated falcigers in posterior segments. Beyond morphological analyses, molecular phylogenetics was used for the first time for Namalycastis to support population monophyly and recognition of the new species. The analysis, using both mitochondrial and nuclear data, corroborated the morphological analysis in suggesting that our specimens represent an as yet undescribed species, Namalycastis jaya sp. n., which forms a monophyletic group among the sampled nereidid taxa. Finally, a taxonomic key for Namalycastis species recorded from the Indian region is provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Water mites of the genus Lebertia Neuman, 1880 (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Lebertiidae) from Turkey, with the description of one new species
A list of species of the water mite genus Lebertia Neuman, 1880 known from Turkey is provided, based on bibliographical data and results from recent field work, mainly in the Southwestern part of the country. We describe one new species, Lebertia martini sp. n. and report new 28 locality records from 6 provinces for the three previously known species.
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Nuclear Materials and Properties"]

Revision of the southeast Asian soldier-fly genus Parastratiosphecomyia Brunetti, 1923 (Diptera, Stratiomyidae, Pachygastrinae)
The genus Parastratiosphecomyia Brunetti is revised with the description of two new species: P. freidbergi sp. n. from India and P. rozkosnyi sp. n. from Laos and Thailand. All four species in the genus are illustrated and a key to species is provided. Type localities of previously described taxa are briefly discussed.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

First record of the aphid genus Neonipponaphis Takahashi (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Hormaphidinae) from China, with a description of one new species
The aphid genus Neonipponaphis Takahashi is reviewed and reported in China for the first time, with a description of one new species, Neonipponaphis pustulosis sp. n. on Castanopsis eyrei from Fujian. A key to species, morphological descriptions, features, host plants, and distributions are provided. Holotype and paratypes are deposited in the National Zoological Museum of China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
["Neonipponaphis"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions"]

The first hypothelminorheic Crustacea (Amphipoda, Dogielinotidae, Hyalella) from South America
Most of known troglobiotic species occur in caves and subterranean environments from great depths. However, recently more attention has been given to other subterranean environments, such as the hypothelminorheic habitats. It comprises the most superficial among all subterranean habitats. This kind of environment is characterized by the constant presence of wet spots, absence of light and very particular abiotic characteristics, comprising unique species. The first hypothelminorheic Amphipoda from South America is here described, a new species of the genus Hyalella which occurs in a wetland on Southern Brazil. The new species differs from other troglobiotics of the genus by the presence of a curved seta on the inner ramus of uropod 1 and elongation of appendices, as the first pair of antennae and peraeopods 6 and 7. However, human impacts in the area where the new species occurs have changed heavily their habitat, which may have led the species to a critical level of threat or even extinction, demonstrating the fragility of this environment.a
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A new species of Decimiana Uvarov (Insecta, Mantodea, Acanthopidae) from Brazil, with remarks on the distribution of Decimiana bolivari (Chopard)
Decimiana Uvarov is a Neotropical genus of Mantodea with five South American species, three of them known from Brazil: Decimiana tessellata (Charpentier); Decimiana clavata Ippolito & Lombardo; and Decimiana bolivari (Chopard). A fourth species from Brazil is described and new records of Decimiana bolivari (Chopard) from Brazil are presented and its distribution discussed.

Taxonomic revision of Bracalba Dodd (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae s.l.), a parasitoid wasp genus endemic to Australia
The endemic Australian parasitic wasp genus Bracalba (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) is revised. Sixteen species are recognized: B. cuneata Dodd, B. laminata Dodd and B. nigrescens (Dodd) are redescribed and thirteen new species are recognized; B. clavata Burks, sp. n., B. globosa Burks, sp. n., B. hesperia Burks, sp. n., B. intermedia Burks, sp. n., B. magnirubra Burks, sp. n., B. parvirubra Burks, sp. n., B. pinnula Burks, sp. n., B. plana Burks, sp. n., B. propodealis Burks, sp. n., B. sculptifrons Burks, sp. n., B. sparsa Burks, sp. n., B. tricorata Burks, sp. n., and B. tridentata Burks, sp. n. The genus is found continent-wide but mostly south of the Tropic of Capricorn, and with the highest species diversity occurring in the Pilbara and south-western regions of Western Australia. The hosts of Bracalba are unknown but specimens reared from eggs confirm that the genus is associated with orthopteran hosts. A preliminary phylogeny of species did not indicate that species groups were monophyletic, but they are retained despite paraphyly because they are convenient for specimen identification.

A revision of the Chinese Gasteruptiidae (Hymenoptera, Evanioidea)
The Chinese fauna of the family Gasteruptiidae is revised, keyed and fully illustrated for the first time. Only one genus of this family, Gasteruption Latreille, 1796, is recorded from China. In total 28 valid species of the genus Gasteruption are recognized. Six species are new to science (Gasteruption angulatum sp. n., G. assectoides sp. n., G. coloratum sp. n., G. latitibia sp. n., G. sinepunctatum sp. n. and G. strigosum sp. n.) and eight species are reported new for China (G. bimaculatum Pasteels, 1958, G. birmanense Pasteels, 1958, G. dimidiatum Semenov, 1892, G. formilis Alekseev, 1995, G. subhamatum Pasteels, 1958, G. tonkinense Pasteels, 1958, G. tournieri Schletterer, 1885, G. transversiceps Pasteels, 1958). Three new synonyms are proposed: G. curiosum Pasteels, 1958, of G. amoyense Pasteels, 1958; G. sinense var. minus Kieffer, 1924, with G. japonicum Cameron, 1888, and G. sinense Kieffer, 1924, of G. sinarum Kieffer, 1911. Lectotypes are designated for Gasteruption corniculigerum Enderlein, 1913, G. sinense Kieffer, 1924, and G. transversiceps Pasteels, 1958. Gasteruption bihamatum Kieffer, 1911, previously reported from South China, is a South American species.

Rare and new cumaceans (Crustacea, Peracarida) from the southern margin of the Cap Ferret Canyon (Bay of Biscay)
A new cumacean genus and species, Ithyleucon sorbei gen. et sp. n., was described from material collected in the southern margin of the Cap Ferret Canyon (Bay of Biscay, NE Atlantic). Although the new genus resembles Pseudoleucon Zimmer, 1903, in terms of the general aspect of the carapace and the pseudo-rostrum position, it shows important differences in the uropod structure and in the size of the antenna 1 accessory flagellum. In addition, some comments regarding the morphology of certain rare species (Mesolamprops denticulatus Ledoyer, 1983, Hemilamprops normani Bonnier, 1896 and Schizocuma spino-culatum (Jones, 1984)) are also provided.
["Cumacea"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine and environmental studies"]

Two new species of Phrynopus (Anura, Strabomantidae) from high elevations in the Yanachaga-Chemillén National park in Peru (Departamento de Pasco)
We describe two new species of Phrynopus from a cloud forest of the Cordillera Yanachaga, Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park in Peru and describe and document the first clutch and case of parental care for a species of Phrynopus. One of the new species of Phrynopus is described based on two females (SVL 19.1–21.0 mm) which were found in leaf litter and moss layer in a cloud forest at 2900 m elevation. This new species is most similar to Phrynopus bracki. The second new species of Phrynopus was found in the transitional formation between cloud forest and wet puna at 3000 m elevation. Its description is based on a single female (SVL 20.7 mm) that was observed guarding nine eggs under moss. This new species is most similar to Phrynopus nicoleae. The eggs had a diameter of 5.7–5.8 mm (n = 3) and froglets when hatched a SVL of 6.2–6.5 mm (n = 3). Sympatric anurans include Gastrotheca sp., Pristimantis aniptopalmatus, P. bromeliaceus, Pristimantis sp., and Rhinella yanachaga.

Tabanidae (Diptera) of Maranhão state, Brazil. V. Description of Protosilvius gurupi sp. n. (Pangoniinae, Pangoniini) and key to Protosilvius species
Protosilvius gurupi sp. n. (Tabanidae, Pangoniinae) is described and illustrated based on seven female and 53 male specimens collected in the Amazonian region at Reserva Biológica Gurupi, Centro Novo do Maranhão municipality, northwest Maranhão, Brazil. This is the first record of Protosilvius in northern Brazil and in the Amazon Basin. An illustrated key to all Protosilvius species is also presented.
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Revision of the Lispe longicollis-group (Diptera, Muscidae)
The Lispe longicollis species-group is revised. Lispe ethiopica sp. n. is described. The following 3 new synonyms are established: Lispe assimilis Wiedemann, 1824 (syn: cyrtoneurina Stein, 1900 and modesta Stein, 1913); Lispe manicata Wiedemann, 1830 (syn: forficata Kurahashi & Shinonaga, 2009). Female of Lispe microptera Seguy, 1937 is described for the first time. Identification key for known Eurasian and African species is given.
["Lispe longicollis species-group"]

Revision of the Chinese species of Dialineura Rondani, 1856 (Diptera, Therevidae, Therevinae)
The genus Dialineura Rondani is reviewed from China. One species, D. elongata sp. n. is described as new to science. Two species, D. nigrofemorata Kröber and D. gorodkovi Zaitzev, are recorded from China for the first time. The female information of D. henanensis Yang is also included here. A key to all the male species in the world and a biogeography map of China are presented.
["Therevidae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A revision of the Afrotropical spider genus Cambalida Simon, 1909 (Araneae, Corinnidae)
The non-mimetic Afrotropical spider genus Cambalida Simon, 1909, placed within a subfamily of predominantly ant-mimicking spiders (Araneae: Corinnidae: Castianeirinae), is revised. Three species are transferred from Castianeira Keyserling, 1879 to Cambalida: C. deminuta (Simon, 1909), comb. n., C. fulvipes (Simon, 1896), comb. n. and C. loricifera (Simon, 1885), comb. n.. A fourth species, C. fagei (Caporiacco, 1939), comb. n., is transferred from Brachyphaea Simon, 1895 to Cambalida. Two species, Castianeira depygata Strand, 1916, syn. n. and C. mestrali Lessert, 1921, syn. n., are considered junior synonyms of C. fulvipes. The males of C. deminuta and C. loricifera are redescribed and their unknown females are described for the first time. The female and male of C. fulvipes and C. coriacea Simon, 1909 are also redescribed. The type material of the type species of the genus, C. insulana Simon, 1909 from Pagalu (Annobon) Island, is lost, and only immature specimens have been subsequently collected from a nearby island. The species is regarded as a nomen dubium until fresh adult material can be collected. A replacement name, Cambalida simoni nom. n. is proposed for Cambalida fulvipes Simon, 1909, the latter being a secondary junior homonym of Cambalida fulvipes (Simon, 1896). The type material of this species is also lost and it is too considered nomen dubium. The following new species are described: C. compressa sp. n. from West Africa, C. dippenaarae sp. n. from southern Africa, C. griswoldi sp. n. and C. lineata sp. n. from Madagascar, and C. unica sp. n. from Cameroon. Notes are provided on the biology of each species and the distribution of the genus in the Afrotropical Region.
["Castianeirinae"]

Hard ticks (Acari, Ixodidae) of Croatia
The present paper is based on original and literature data. In Croatia the first studies on the occurrence of ixodid species were made about 80 years ago. The number of tick species recorded in Croatia considerably increased during the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s of the past century. A total of 21 species of hard tick belonging to 5 genera have been recorded in Croatia. Ixodes is the best represented genus, with seven species recorded. Haemaphysalis is represented by six species, followed by Rhipicephalus with four species. Dermacentor and Hyalomma are represented by two species each. The ticks were collected on 47 different host species. Eleven tick species were collected on Bos taurus and Ovis aries, followed by Capra hircus and Equus caballus with 8 species and Canis lupus familiaris with 6 species. On the remaining 42 host species one, two or three tick species were collected. The most widespread tick is Ixodes ricinus which was found on 25 different host species.
["Ixodidae"]
["Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Vector-Borne Animal Diseases"]

Redescription of the poorly known planktonic copepod Pontellopsis lubbockii (Giesbrecht, 1889) (Pontellidae) from the Eastern Tropical Pacific with a key to species
During a survey of the epipelagic zooplankton carried out off the coast of the Mexican states of Jalisco and Colima, in the Eastern Tropical Pacific, female and male specimens of the poorly known calanoid copepod Pontellopsis lubbockii (Giesbrecht, 1889) were collected. Because previous descriptions and illustrations are largely incomplete and have caused some taxonomical confusion, this species is fully redescribed from specimens from the Mexican Pacific. The species has some characters that have been overlooked, but those related to the female genital double-somite are the most striking, it has two conical dorsal protuberances and a long ventral spiniform process unique of this species. The mouthparts of this species have not been hitherto described and figured, the flexible terminal setae of legs 3 and 4 is noteworthy. The male general morphology agrees in general with previous data, but new details of the leg 5 and geniculate antennule are added. Its mouthparts, with strong, serrate setae on the maxillae and maxillules, and a strong mandibular edge, suggest that this is a predator form. A dichotomous key for the identification of males and females of the species of Pontellopsis known from the Eastern Tropical Pacific is included.
["Zooplankton"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

Paridris Kieffer of the New World (Hymenoptera, Platygastroidea, Platygastridae)
Paridris in the New World is revised (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae). Fifteen species are described, of which 13 are new. Paridris aenea (Ashmead) (Mexico (Tamaulipas) and West Indies south to Bolivia and southern Brazil (Rio de Janeiro state)), P. armata Talamas, sp. n. (Venezuela), P. convexa Talamas, sp. n. (Costa Rica, Panama), P. dnophos Talamas, sp. n. (Mexico (Vera Cruz) south to Bolivia and central Brazil (Goiás)), P. gongylos Talamas & Masner, sp. n. (United States: Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina), P. gorn Talamas & Masner, sp. n. (United States: Ohio south to Alabama, Georgia), P. invicta Talamas & Masner, sp. n. (Brazil: São Paulo), P. isabelicae Talamas & Masner, sp. n. (Cuba, Dominican Republic), P. lemete Talamas & Masner, sp. n. (Puerto Rico), P. minor Talamas, sp. n. (Cuba), P. nayakorum Talamas, sp. n. (Costa Rica), P. pallipes (Ashmead) (southeastern Canada, United States south to Costa Rica, also Brazil (São Paulo), P. psydrax Talamas & Masner, sp. n. (Argentina, Mexico, Paraguay, United States, Venezuela), P. saurotos Talamas, sp. n. (Jamaica), P. soucouyant Talamas & Masner, sp. n. (Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela). Paridris brevipennis Fouts, P. laeviceps (Ashmead), and P. nigricornis (Fouts) are treated as junior synonyms of P. pallipes; Paridris opaca is transferred to Probaryconus. Lectotypes are designated for Idris aenea Ashmead and Caloteleia aenea Ashmead.
["Egg-parasitoid"]

Review of the mite subfamily Arctoseiinae Evans with a key to its genera and description of a new genus and species from Siberia (Parasitiformes, Mesostigmata, Ascidae)
We redefine the subfamily Arctoseiinae of the family Ascidae, and describe a new genus, Maxinia gen. n., based on a new species, Maxinia arctomontana sp. n., whose adults display a combination of attri-butes uniquely different from other genera of the subfamily. The geographical range of M. arctomontana is limited by arctic and mountain landscapes of Siberia. This description provides further data on the arctic distribution and morphological diversity of the subfamily Arctoseiinae, which is unusually well represented in that region (26–83 % in local gamasid mite faunas). Conceptual problems with the genus Iphidonopsis Gwiazdowicz, 2004 are reviewed, and a new combination, Iphidonopsis magnanalis (Ma & Yin, 1999) comb. n., is presented for Iphidozercon magnanalis Ma & Yin, 1999 from China. The genus Diseius Lindquist & Evans, 1965 is provisionally moved from the family Ascidae to the Digamasellidae. A new key to the genera of Arctoseiinae is presented.
["Gamasid mites"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Revision of the European species of Omphale Haliday (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae)
The European species of Omphale Haliday (Eulophidae: Entedoninae) are revised. The revision includes 37 species, of which eleven are newly described and the remaining 26 species are redescribed. The species are classified into six species groups, with six unplaced species. All species are fully diagnosed and thoroughly illustrated. Identification keys are provided for females and males. Two new morphological features to aid classification and identification are introduced: male genitalia and wing interference patterns (WIPs). The former has been used successfully in the classification of New World Omphale and the latter is used for the first time in a taxonomic revision. Male genitalia in Omphale have considerable interspecific variation, an unusual trait among chalcidoid Hymenoptera, and are demonstrated to be useful for classification of species and species-groups, and they also possess the only autapomorphy for Omphale. WIPs are useful to help separate some species, but cannot be used to define either the genus or species groups. Distributional data are compiled for each species and suggest a pan-european distribution for most species. Gall-midges are the known hosts for 14 species, and the absence of host overlap between species suggests that host specialization is a driving force for speciation. Several Omphale species are known only from females, or have a strong female biased sex ratio, suggesting thelytokous development. Apart from the 37 species included in this revision, the status for nine additional species (names) in species group aetius remain unsolved. For nomenclatorial stability, a neotype is designated for Eulophus lugens Nees (= Omphale lugens (Nees)). Elachestus obscurus Förster and Derostenus sulciscuta Thomson are transferred from Holcopelte to Omphale comb.n. Derostenus radialis Thomson and Achrysocharella americana Girault are synonymized with Omphale theana (Walker), and O. teresis Askew is synonymized with O. phruron (Walker), syn. n. The status of genus Pholema Graham is revised as it is removed from synonymy with Omphale and instead synonymized with Neochrysocharis Kurdjumov, syn. n., and the type species for Pholema, P. microstoma Graham, is transferred to Neochrysocharis, comb. n. Eugerium orbatum Szelényi, previously transferred to Omphale, is synonymized with Asecodes congruens (Nees), syn. n.
["Gall-midges"]

A revision of the new world species of Polytrichophora Cresson and Facitrichophora, new genus (Diptera, Ephydridae)
The New World species of Polytrichophora Cresson and Fascitrichophora new genus, are revised. Fifteen new species are described (type locality in parenthesis): Fascitrishophora atrella sp. n. (Costa Rica. Guanacaste: Murciélago [10°56.9’N, 85°42.5’W; sandy mud flats around mangrove inlet]), F. carvalhorum sp.n. (Brazil. São Paulo: Praia Puruba [23°21’S, 44°55.6’W; beach]), F. manza sp. n. (Trinidad and Tobago. Trinidad. St. Andrew: Lower Manzanilla (12 km S; 10°24.5’N, 61°01.5’W), bridge over Nariva River), F. panama sp. n. (Panama. Darien: Garachine [8°04’N, 78°22’W]), Polytrichophora adarca sp. n. (Barbados. Christ Church: Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary [13°04.2’N, 59°34.7’W; swamp]), P. arnaudorum sp. n. (Mexico. Baja California. San Felipe [31°01.5’N, 114°50.4’W]), P. barba sp. n. (Cuba. Sancti Spiritus: Topes de Collantes [21°54.4’N, 80°01.4’W, 670 m]), P. flavella sp. n. (Peru. Madre de Dios: Rio Manu, Pakitza [11°56.6’S, 71°16.9’W; 250 m]), P. marinoniorum sp. n. (Brazil. Paraná: Antonina [25°28.4’S, 48°40.9’W; mangal]), P. rostra sp. n. (Peru. Madre de Dios: Rio Manu, Pakitza [11°56.6’S, 71°16.9’W; 250 m]), P. sinuosa sp. n. (Trinidad and Tobago. Trinidad. St. Andrew: Lower Manzanilla [12 km S; 10°24’N, 61°02’W]), P. mimbres sp. n. (United States. New Mexico. Grant: Mimbres River [New Mexico Highway 61 & Royal John Mine Road; 32°43.8’N, 107°52’W; 1665 m]), P. salix sp. n. (United States. Alaska. Matanuska-Susitna: Willow Creek [61°46.1’N, 150°04.2’W; 50 m]), P. sturtevantorum sp. n. (United States. Tennessee. Shelby: Meeman Shelby State Park [Mississippi River; 35°20.4’N, 90°2.1’W; 98 m]), P. prolata sp. n. (Belize. Stann Creek: Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary [16°45’N, 88°30’W]). All known New World species of both genera are described with an emphasis on structures of the male terminalia, which are fully illustrated. Detailed locality data and distribution maps for all species are provided. For perspective and to facilitate recognition, the tribe Discocerinini is diagnosed and a key to included genera is provided.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Revision, cladistic analysis and biogeography of Typhochlaena C. L. Koch, 1850, Pachistopelma Pocock, 1901 and Iridopelma Pocock, 1901 (Araneae, Theraphosidae, Aviculariinae)
Three aviculariine genera endemic to Brazil are revised. Typhochlaena C. L. Koch, 1850 is resurrected, including five species; Pachistopelma Pocock, 1901 includes two species; and Iridopelma Pocock, 1901, six species. Nine species are newly described: Typhochlaena amma sp. n., T. costae sp. n., T. curumim sp. n., T. paschoali sp. n., Pachistopelma bromelicola sp. n., Iridopelma katiae sp. n., I. marcoi sp. n., I. oliveirai sp. n. and I. vanini sp. n. Three new synonymies are established: Avicularia pulchra Mello-Leitão, 1933 and Avicularia recifiensis Struchen & Brändle, 1996 are junior synonyms of Pachistopelma rufonigrum Pocock, 1901 syn. n., and Avicularia palmicola Mello-Leitão, 1945 is a junior synonym of Iridopelma hirsutum Pocock, 1901 syn. n. Pachistopelma concolor Caporiacco, 1947 is transferred to Tapinauchenius Ausserer, 1871, making the new combination Tapinauchenius concolor (Caporiacco, 1947) comb. n. Lectotypes are newly designed for Pachistopelma rufonigrum Pocock, 1901 , Iridopelma hirsutum Pocock, 1901 and Pachistopelma concolor Caporiacco, 1947. Cladistic analyses using both equal and implied weights were carried out with a matrix comprising 62 characters and 38 terminal taxa. The chosen cladogram found with X-Pee-Wee and concavity 6 suggests they are monophyletic. All species are keyed and mapped and information on species habitat and area cladograms are presented. Discussion on biogeography and conservation is provided.
["Brazilian Atlantic rainforest"]

Revision of the freshwater genus Atyaephyra (Crustacea, Decapoda, Atyidae) based on morphological and molecular data
Atyaephyra de Brito Capello, 1867 was described from the Mediterranean region almost 200 years ago. Since then, the genus has been recorded from various freshwater habitats in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Despite its long history, the taxonomic status of Atyaephyra species remains confusing and uncertain. Consequently numerous specimens from the known range of Atyaephyra were analysed using morphological characters and mitochondrial COI sequences in an attempt to clarify the taxonomy of this genus. The present study recognises seven Atyaephyra species, more than twice as many as previously recorded (three), four of which are considered as new. The new species are described, additional information to the original descriptions are provided for the remaining three taxa, while neotypes of A. desmarestii Millet, 1831 and A. stankoi Karaman, 1972 are designated to stabilize their taxonomy. Non-overlapping distinguishing morphological characters are used to discriminate the examined material into five species, e.g., A. desmarestii, A. stankoi, A. orientalis Bouvier, 1913, A. thyamisensis sp. n., A. strymonensis sp. n. In addition, the genetic analysis supports the existence of multiple phylogenetic clades in the broader Mediterranean area and distinguishes two new cryptic species, namely A. tuerkayi sp. n. and A. acheronensis sp. n. The geographic distribution of these species is confirmed and their phylogenetic relationships are described.
["Atyidae"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Systematics of the Osteocephalus buckleyi species complex (Anura, Hylidae) from Ecuador and Peru
We present a new phylogeny, based on DNA sequences of mitochondrial and nuclear genes, for frogs of the genus Osteocephalus with emphasis in the Osteocephalus buckleyi species complex. Genetic, morphologic, and advertisement call data are combined to define species boundaries and describe new species. The phylogeny shows strong support for: (1) a basal position of O. taurinus + O. oophagus, (2) a clade containing phytotelmata breeding species, and (3) a clade that corresponds to the O. buckleyi species complex. Our results document a large proportion of hidden diversity within a set of populations that were previously treated as a single, widely distributed species, O. buckleyi. Individuals assignable to O. buckleyi formed a paraphyletic group relative to O. verruciger and O. cabrerai and contained four species, one of which is O. buckleyi sensu stricto and three are new. Two of the new species are shared between Ecuador and Peru (O. vilmae sp. n. and O. cannatellai sp. n.) and one is distributed in the Amazon region of southern Peru (O. germani sp. n.). We discuss the difficulties of using morphological characters to define species boundaries and propose a hypothesis to explain them.
["Advertisement calls"]

First record of the ant subfamily Aenictinae (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Saudi Arabia, with the description of a new species
The ant subfamily Aenictinae is recorded for the first time from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and for the second time from the Arabian Peninsula. A new species Aenictus arabicus sp. n., is described from the worker caste. Aenictus arabicus belongs to the A. wroughtonii-group and appears to be most closely related to A. rhodiensis Menozzi, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by the following characters: overall smaller size; cephalic index (head width/head length) small; occipital corners in lateral view rounded; antennal scape when laid back surpassing approximately two- thirds of head length; funicular segments 2–8 each at least 2× as long as broad; subpetiolar process well developed; petiole and postpetiole distinctly imbricate; gaster and clypeus entirely yellow, teeth of mandibles reddish- brown. Aenictus arabicus was collected from leaf litter, next to a tree of Psidium guajava L. The new species also is similar to A. sagei andA. wroughtonii. Affinities and a key to related species of the species group are given.
["Aenictus"]

Forever in the dark: the cave-dwelling azooxanthellate reef coral Leptoseris troglodyta sp. n. (Scleractinia, Agariciidae)
The coral species Leptoseris troglodyta sp. n. (Scleractinia, Agariciidae) is described as new to science. It is the first known azooxanthellate shallow-water agariciid and is recorded from the ceilings of caves at 5-35 m depth in West Pacific coral reefs. The corals have monocentric cup-shaped calices. They may become colonial through extramural budding from the basal coenosteum, which may cause adjacent calices to fuse. The size, shape and habitat of L. troglodyta are unique compared to other Leptoseris species, many of which have been recorded from mesophotic depths. The absence of zooxanthellae indicates that it may survive well in darkness, but endolithic algae in some corals indicate that they may be able to get some light. The presence of menianes on the septal sides, which may help to absorb light at greater depths in zooxanthellate corals, have no obvious adaptive relevance in the new species and could have been inherited from ancestral species that perhaps were zooxanthellate. The new species may be azooxanthellate as derived through the loss of zooxanthellae, which would be a reversal in Leptoseris phylogeny.
["Cavernicolous"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Review of the genus Tinissa Walker, 1864 (Lepidoptera, Tineidae, Scardiinae) from China, with description of five new species
The genus Tinissa Walker is reviewed for China. Seven species are recognized, of which T. apicimaculata sp. n., T. conchata sp. n., T. connata sp. n., T. leguminella sp. n. and T. spirella sp. n. are described as new; and T. insularia Robinson, 1976 is newly recorded from China. Photographs of the adults and illustrations of the genitalia are given. A key to all the known Chinese species and a distribution map of Tinissa in China are included.

New Mecyclothorax spp. (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Moriomorphini) define Mont Mauru, eastern Tahiti Nui, as a distinct area of endemism
Seven species of Mecyclothorax Sharp precinctive to Mont Mauru, Tahiti, Society Islands are newly described: M. tutei sp. n., M. tihotii sp. n., M. putaputa sp. n., M. toretore sp. n., M. anaana sp. n., M. pirihao sp. n., and M. poro sp. n. These seven constitute the first representative Mecyclothorax species recorded from Mauru, and their geographic restriction to this isolated massif defines it as a distinct area of endemism along the highly dissected eastern versant of the Tahiti Nui volcano. Each of the new species has a closest relative on another massif of Tahiti Nui, supporting speciation associated with vicariance caused by extensive erosional valley formation, especially the development of Papenoo Valley. Comparison of the known elevational distributions of the new discoveries on Mont Mauru to the elevational diversity profile of the comparatively well-sampled Mont Marau, northwest Tahiti Nui, suggests that numerous Mecyclothorax species remain to be discovered in higher-elevation habitats of Mont Mauru.
["French Polynesia"]

Profundulus kreiseri, a new species of Profundulidae (Teleostei, Cyprinodontiformes) from northwestern Honduras
A new species of Profundulus, P. kreiseri (Cyprinodontiformes: Profundulidae), is described from the Chamelecón and Ulúa Rivers in the northwestern Honduran highlands. Based on a phylogenetic analysis using cytochrome b and the presence of synapomorphic characters (dark humeral spot, a scaled preorbital region and between 32-34 vertebrae), this new species is placed in the subgenus Profundulus, which also includes P. (P.) oaxacae, P. (P.) punctatus and P. (P.) guatemalensis. Profundulus kreiseri can be distinguished from other members of the subgenus Profundulus byless than half of its caudal fin densely scaled. Profundulus kreiseri can further be differentiated from P. (P.) oaxacae and P. (P.) punctatus by the absence of rows of dark spots on its flanks. The new species can further be differentiated from P. (P.) guatemalensis by the presence of fewer caudal- and pectoral-fin rays. The new species is distinguished from congeners of the profundulid subgenus Tlaloc (viz., P. (T.) hildebrandi, P. (T.) labialis, P. (T.) candalarius and P. (T.) portillorum) bya scaled preorbital region and a dark humeral spot. Profundulus kreiseri and P. portillorum are the only two species of Profundulus that are endemic to the region south of the Motagua River drainage in southern Guatemala and northwestern Honduras.

Taxonomy, morphology, masticatory function and phylogeny of heterodontosaurid dinosaurs
Heterodontosaurids comprise an important early radiation of small-bodied herbivores that persisted for approximately 100 My from Late Triassic to Early Cretaceous time. Review of available fossils unequivocally establishes Echinodon as a very small-bodied, late-surviving northern heterodontosaurid similar to the other northern genera Fruitadens and Tianyulong. Tianyulong from northern China has unusual skeletal proportions, including a relatively large skull, short forelimb, and long manual digit II. The southern African heterodontosaurid genus Lycorhinus is established as valid, and a new taxon from the same formation is named Pegomastax africanus gen. n., sp. n. Tooth replacement and tooth-to-tooth wear is more common than previously thought among heterodontosaurids, and in Heterodontosaurus the angle of tooth-to-tooth shear is shown to increase markedly during maturation. Long-axis rotation of the lower jaw during occlusion is identified here as the most likely functional mechanism underlying marked tooth wear in mature specimens of Heterodontosaurus. Extensive tooth wear and other evidence suggests that all heterodontosaurids were predominantly or exclusively herbivores. Basal genera such as Echinodon, Fruitadens and Tianyulong with primitive, subtriangular crowns currently are known only from northern landmasses. All other genera except the enigmatic Pisanosaurus have deeper crown proportions and currently are known only from southern landmasses.
["Dinosauria"]
["Paleontology and Evolutionary Biology", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

A revision of the genus Planinasus Cresson (Diptera, Periscelididae)
The genus Planinasus Cresson is revised and includes 18 extant and one fossil species. We clarify the status of the three previously described species and describe 15 new species as follows (type locality in parenthesis): P. aenigmaticus (Colombia. Bogota: Bogota (04°35.8`N, 74°08.8`W)), P. neotropicus (Panama. Canal Zone: Barro Colorado Island (09°09.1`N, 79°50.8`W)), P. kotrbae (Ecuador. Orellana: Rio Tiputini Biodiversity Station (0°38.2`S, 76°08.9`W)), P. miradorus (Brazil. Maranhão: Parque Estadual Mirador, Base da Geraldina (06°22.2`S, 44°21.8`W)), P. tobagoensis (Trinidad and Tobago. Tobago. St. John: Parlatuvier (11°17.9`N, 60°39`W)), P. xanthops (Ecuador. Orellana: Rio Tiputini Biodiversity Station (0°38.2`S, 76°8.9`W)), P. argentifacies (Peru. Madre de Dios: Río Manu, Pakitza (11°56.6`S, 71°16.9`W; 250 m)), P. insulanus (Dominican Republic. La Vega: near Jarabacoa, Salto Guasara (19°04.4`N, 70°42.1`W, 680 m)), P. nigritarsus (Guyana. Conservation of Ecological Interactions and Biotic Associations (CEIBA; ca. 40 km S Georgetown; 06°29.9`N, 58°13.1`W)), P. atriclypeus (Brazil. Rio de Janeiro: Rio de Janeiro, Floresta da Tijuca (22°57.6`S, 43°16.4`W)), P. atrifrons (Bolivia. Santa Cruz: Ichilo, Buena Vista (4-6 km SSE; Hotel Flora y Fauna; 17°29.95`S, 63°33.15`W; 4-500 m)), P. flavicoxalis (West Indies. Dominica. St. David: 1.6 km N of junction of roads to Rosalie and Castle Bruce (15°23.8`N, 61°18.6`W)), P. mcalpineorum (Mexico. Chiapas: Cacahoatan (7 km N; 15°04.1`N, 92°07.4`W)), P. nigrifacies (Brazil. São Paulo: Mogi das Cruzes, Serra do Itapeti (23°31.5`S, 46°11.2`W)), P. obscuripennis (Peru. Madre de Dios: Río Manu, Erika (near Salvación; 12°50.7`S, 71°23.3`W; 550 m)). In addition to external characters, we also describe and illustrate structures of the male terminalia and for P. kotrbae sp. n., the internal female reproductive organs. Detailed locality data and distribution maps for all species are provided. For perspective and to facilitate genus-group and species-group recognition, the family Periscelididae and subfamily Stenomicrinae are diagnosed and for the latter, a key to included genera is provided.
["Family and Matrimonial Law", "Medieval Iberian Studies", "Spanish Literature and Culture Studies"]

Description of a new species of Calliostoma (Gastropoda, Calliostomatidae) from Southeastern Brazil
Calliostoma tupinamba is a new species from Southeastern Brazil, ranging from southern Rio de Janeiro to northern São Paulo, and found only on coastal islands, on rocks and sessile invertebrates at 3 to 5 meters of depth. Shell and soft part morphology is described here in detail. Calliostoma tupinamba is mainly characterized by a depressed trochoid shell; eight slightly convex whorls; a sharply suprasutural carina starting on the third whorl and forming a peripheral rounded keel; and a whitish, funnel-shaped and deep umbilicus, measuring about 5%–10% of maximum shell width. Calliostoma tupinamba resembles C. bullisi Clench & Turner, 1960 in shape, but differs from it in being taller and wider,a smaller umbilicus and lacking a strong and large innermost spiral cord at its base. Finally, an identification key of Brazilian Calliostoma species is presented.
["anatomy"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

A new species of Angelopteromyia Korneyev, 2001 (Diptera, Platystomatidae) from Iran, with the key to the species
Angelopteromyia korneyevi Mohamadzade Namin, sp. n. from Iran is described and figured. The new species is similar to other species of Angelopteromyia inabdominal spiracles 5 of females not approximated medially, as well as clypeus extended postero-ventrally, antenna shorter than face, and R1 and R4+5 setulose on dorsal side. It differs from other species of Angelopteromyia bymostly brown wing with 3 hyaline crossbands and a few hyaline spots, and dark brownish basal and costal cells without hyaline spots.

The first precinctive Carabidae from Moorea, Society Islands: new Mecyclothorax spp. (Coleoptera) from the summit of Mont Tohiea
Seven species of Mecyclothorax Sharp from Moorea, Society Islands are newly described; M. perraulti sp. n., M. pahere sp. n., M. menemene sp. n., M. mahatahi sp. n., M. popotioaoa sp. n., M. mapo sp. n., and M. fatata sp. n. These constitute the first Mecyclothorax species described from Moorea, and the first carabid beetle species shown to be geographically restricted to that island. Each of the newly described species is most similar to a different species on the island of Tahiti, suggesting that none of the seven Moorean taxa are evolutionary end-products of autochthonous speciation within Moorea. The occurrence of precinctive Mecyclothorax species on both Moorea and Tahiti demonstrates that radiation of Mecyclothorax in the Society Islands has been facilitated by speciation events implicating both islands. Whether this speciation has been preceded by vicariance or dispersal is discussed, with the generality of a dispersal hypothesis tested using information from Society Island Nabidae (Hemiptera). Salient morphological characters for taxa in the Society and Hawaiian Islands are compared to those representing a broad survey of southwest Pacific Mecyclothorax spp. This comparison supports the independent founding of each radiation in the Societies and Hawaii from an Australian ancestral propagule, likely drawn from the ecologically general, geographically widespread M. punctipennis (Macleay).
["French Polynesia"]

Reestablishment of Notopygos megalops McIntosh, description of N. caribea sp. n. from the Greater Caribbean and barcoding of “amphiamerican” Notopygos species (Annelida, Amphinomidae)
The species of the genus Notopygos Grube, 1855 are characterized by an ovate body, a prominent caruncle with three lobes, dendritic branchiae, and double dorsal cirri. Twenty-two species belonging to Notopygos have been described, mostly from the Indo-Pacific region. In America, few species are frequently recorded: N. crinita Grube, 1855 from St. Helena Island (Atlantic) and N. ornata Grube and Ørsted in Grube 1857 from Costa Rica (Pacific). Notopygos crinita is a widely distributed species in the Western Atlantic with additional reports in the Mediterranean Sea (as a questionable alien species) and in the Pacific Ocean. However, only the genus features have been considered, consequently some records could be misidentifications. During a revision of materials from collections and the barcode project, ‘Mexican Barcode of Life, MEXBOL’, we found specimens of N. megalops and an undescribed species from reef zones in the Caribbean; the former had been considered a junior synonym of N. crinita. Herein, N. megalops is reestablished and N. caribea sp. n. is described. A morphological and DNA barcode approach was used to explain the records of N. ornata in the Atlantic and to show the differences with the new species, since both species share features such as complex pigmentation patterns, and circular projections in the median lobe of the caruncle.
["amphiamerican"]

Doryctopambolus Nunes & Zaldívar-Riverón (Braconidae), a new neotropical doryctine wasp genus with propodeal spines
The new Neotropical doryctine genus Doryctopambolus gen. n. is erected to contain D. pilcomayensis (van Achterberg & Braet, 2004), comb. n., which was previously placed within Pambolus (Pambolinae), as well as three new species, D. clebschi sp. n., D. dominicanus sp. n. and D. sarochensis sp. n. Members of this new genus are mainly characterised by the presence of at least one pair of conspicuous propodeal apico-lateral projections, which are similar to those present in all members of Pambolinae and in species of three Australasian doryctine genera. We generated DNA barcoding sequences for the three newly described species. We discuss the morphological similarity between species of the Australasian Echinodoryctes Belokobylskij, Iqbal & Austin and Doryctopambolus. A key for the described species of Doryctopambolus is provided.
["Doryctinae"]

A new marine gastrotrich from the State of São Paulo (Brazil), with a key to species of Pseudostomella (Gastrotricha, Thaumastodermatidae)
In previous papers, faunistic and preliminary taxonomic data on the gastrotrich communities along the coastline of the Brazilian states of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro were reported; among the over 40 records, the occurrence of several species new to science was highlighted. One of such new taxa is described here based on observation carried out on living and SEM prepared specimens. Pseudostomella dolichopoda sp. n. (Gastrotricha: Thaumastodermatidae) is the only species in the genus that attains 420 µm in total length, is covered by pentancres and possesses, among others, caudal pedicles up to 45 µm in length. Additional differences with co-generic taxa characterized by a pentancrous covering are discussed. Furthermore, a key to the described Pseudostomella species of the world based on easily discernible traits, visible in both living and formalin-fixed specimens, is provided.
["Gastrotrichs"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

On the occurrence of egg masses of the diamond-shaped squid Thysanoteuthis rhombus Troschel, 1857 in the subtropical eastern Atlantic (Canary Islands). A potential commercial species?
Data on opportunistic sightings of diamond-shaped squid Thysanoteuthis rhombus egg masses in the Canary Islands (Atlantic Ocean) are presented. A total of 16 egg masses of this species were recorded and photographed from 2000 to 2010 around the western islands of the archipelago (El Hierro, Tenerife and La Gomera). These data reveal the existence of an important spawning area for diamond-shaped squid around the Canary Islands, in subtropical east Atlantic waters. We provide preliminary data for the potential development of an artisanal fishery focused on this species, and a discussion on its potential impacts on the marine ecosystem.
["Thysanoteuthis rhombus"]
["Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids", "Neurobiology and Insect Physiology Research"]

Three new cryptic species of Euglossa from Brazil (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Three new species of orchid bees are described and figured from the Amazon and Atlantic forests of Brazil. Euglossa clausi sp. n., E. moratoi sp. n., and E. pepei sp. n. are distinguished from their close congeners E. crassipunctata Moure, E. parvula Dressler, and E. sapphirina Moure, previously placed in the subgenus Euglossa (Glossurella) Dressler, 1982, a demonstrably paraphyletic assemblage requiring serious reconsideration. Their affinities with related species are discussed and pertinent characters are figured.

Review of the species level taxonomy of the neotropical butterfly genus Oenomaus (Lycaenidae, Theclinae, Eumaeini)
Seven new species of the Neotropical hairstreak genus Oenomaus are described: O. mancha Busby & Faynel, sp. n. (type locality Ecuador); O. gwenish Robbins & Faynel, sp. n. (type locality Panama); O. lea Faynel & Robbins, sp. n. (type locality Ecuador); O. myrteana Busby, Robbins & Faynel, sp. n. (type locality Ecuador); O. mentirosa Faynel & Robbins, sp. n. (type locality Peru); O. andi Busby & Faynel, sp. n. (type locality Ecuador) and O. moseri Robbins & Faynel, sp. n. (type locality Brazil, Santa Catarina). For each new Oenomaus species, we present diagnostic characters and notes on its habitat and biology. We illustrate adults, genitalia, and distribution. New distributional and biological data are presented for 21 previously described Oenomaus species. Oenomaus melleus guyanensis Faynel, 2008 is treated as a new synonym of O. m. melleus (Druce, 1907). Females are described and associated with males for ten species using a variety of factors, including mitochondrial COI DNA “barcode” sequences. We summarize the reasons why the number of recognized Oenomaus species has grown in the past decade from one species to 28 species. Finally, we overview the habitats that Oenomaus species occupy and note that the agricultural pest on Annonaceae, O. ortygnus, is the only Oenomaus species that regularly occurs in greatly disturbed habitats.

A taxonomic contribution to the genus Dolichomitus Smith (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Pimplinae) from Brazil
In the present study, two new species of Pimplinae, Dolichomitus jatai sp. n. and D. moacyri sp. n. are described, and the distribution range of Dolichomitus annulicornis (Cameron, 1886) is extended. The specimens were collected using Malaise traps in areas of Atlantic forest and Brazilian savannah (cerrado) in southeastern Brazil and are deposited in a Brazilian collection (DCBU).
["Neotropica"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies"]

Species of Adialytus Förster, 1862 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Aphidiinae) in Iran: taxonomic notes and tritrophic associations
The species of Adialytus Förster in Iran are taxonomically studied and new data on distribution and host associations are presented. The existence of a species complex, in the case of A. ambiguus (Haliday), and the morphological variability in commonly used taxonomic characters has been discussed. In total, four valid species belonging to the genus Adialytus including A. ambiguus (Haliday), A. salicaphis (Fitch), A. thelaxis (Starý) and A. veronicaecola (Starý) have been identified and recorded from Iran. Also, we recognized two additional phenotypes: “A. arvicola” (Starý) and “Adialytus cf. ambiguus” (Haliday). These phenotypes and A. veronicaecola are newly recorded from Iran in association with Sipha and Aphis species, respectively. An illustrated key for identification of the species and two variable phenotypes is presented.
["Adialytus"]

Redescription of arenicolous dipluran Parajapyx pauliani (Diplura, Parajapygidae) and DNA barcoding analyses of Parajapyx from China
Littoral dipluran Parajapyx pauliani Pagés, 1959 was redescribed based on the specimens collected in Hainan Island, South China. The littoral habitat was confirmed for the species, as the first report of arenicolous dipluran in China. DNA barcoding fragment was sequenced for five Parajapyx species (18 individuals) from China, and this is the first report on DNA barcodes used for dipluran identification. The mean intra- and interspecific divergences are 1.9% and 19.1% respectively. Synonymy of P. paucidentis and P. isabellae was confirmed.
["Diplura"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

The millipede family Ammodesmidae (Diplopoda, Polydesmida) in western Africa
Ammodesmidae are represented in western Africa by two species of a single genus, Ammodesmus Cook, 1896 (= Cenchrodesmus Cook, 1896, syn. n.). The type-species A. granum Cook, 1896 (= Cenchrodesmus volutus Cook, 1896, syn. n.) is redescribed, based on neotype selection, as well as on additional samples, often containing numerous specimens, from Liberia, Guinea and the Ivory Coast. A new species is described from Mount Nimba, Guinea: A. nimba sp. n.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Revision of the Plant Bug Genus Tytthus (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Miridae, Phylinae)
The phyline plant bug genus Tytthus Fieber, previously containing 19 species, is revised. Isoproba Osborn and Drake, 1915, incorrectly placed in the subfamily Bryocorinae, tribe Dicyphini, is synonymized as a junior synonym of Tytthus Fieber, syn. n.; the only included species, Isoproba picea Osborn and Drake is transferred to Tytthus, comb. n., as the senior synonym of T. hondurensis Carvalho, syn. n.; and T. koreanus Josifov and Kerzhner, 1972 is synonymized with T. chinensis (Stål 1860), syn. n.; and a lectotype for T. parviceps is designated. The six new species T. femoralis from Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Mexico, and Peru, T. fuscicornis from New Mexico (USA), T. mexicanus from Mexico, T. pallidus from Brazil and Panama, T. uniformis from Arizona and New Mexico (USA), and T. wheeleri from the eastern United States are described, bringing the total number of species for the genus to 24. A color adult habitus illustration of T. wheeleri, color photographs for each species (except T. juturnaiba Carvalho and Wallerstein), illustrations of male genitalia, scanning electron photomicrographs of selected structures of certain species, and an identification key are provided to facilitate species recognition. A phylogenetic analysis is offered to help infer relationships.

First record of Zombrus bicolor (Enderlein) (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Doryctinae) in Western Europe
The finding of Zombrus bicolor (Enderlein) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Doryctinae) in a Tuscan vineyard of the Siena province (Italy) represents the first record of this species in western Europe. A female was captured in summer 2009 with a malaise trap located in an organic vineyard. Until this finding, the species was recorded only in the Oriental regions of continental China, Taiwan, Korea and Japan and, very recently, in the eastern and southern parts of the Palaearctic region.
["Vineyard"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new Mylabris species from south-eastern Iran and a key to the Iranian species of the nominate subgenus (Coleoptera, Meloidae)
A new species of Mylabris of the nominate subgenus is described and figured. This species is apparently endemic to the south-eastern Iranian province of Kerman and seems to be phenetically very distinct from all other species of this subgenus, primarily because of the unique elytral pattern. A key to the species of the nominate subgenus distributed in Iran is also presented.

A new species of Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 (Scorpiones, Euscorpiidae) from Turkey
A new species of the genus Euscorpius Thorell, 1876 is described based on specimens collected from Dilek Peninsula (Davutlar, Aydın) in Turkey. It is characterized by an oligotrichous trichobothrial pattern (Pv= 7, et= 5/6, eb= 4) and small size. Euscorpius (Euscorpius) avcii sp. n. is the first named species of the subgenus Euscorpius from Turkey.
["Scorpion"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Biochemical and Structural Characterization", "Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities"]

The freshwater snails (Gastropoda) of Iran, with descriptions of two new genera and eight new species
Using published records and original data from recent field work and revision of Iranian material of certain species deposited in the collections of the Natural History Museum Basel, the Zoological Museum Berlin, and Natural History Museum Vienna, a checklist of the freshwater gastropod fauna of Iran was compiled. This checklist contains 73 species from 34 genera and 14 families of freshwater snails; 27 of these species (37%) are endemic to Iran. Two new genera, Kaskakia and Sarkhia, and eight species, i.e., Bithynia forcarti, B. starmuehlneri, B. mazandaranensis, Pseudamnicola georgievi, Kaskakia khorrasanensis, Sarkhia sarabensis, Valvata nowsharensis and Acroloxus pseudolacustris are described as new to science; Ecrobia grimmi (Clessin & Dybowski, 1888), Heleobia dalmatica (Radoman, 1974) and Hippeutis complanatus (Linnaeus, 1758) are reported for the first time from Iran. Additional field work is highly desirable for a more appropriate evaluation of the extant freshwater snail biodiversity in Iran.
["freshwater snails"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

The apid cuckoo bees of the Cape Verde Islands (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
The apid cuckoo bees of the Cape Verde Islands (Republic of Cape Verde) are reviewed and five species recognized, representing two genera. The ammobatine genus Chiasmognathus Engel (Nomadinae: Ammobatini), a specialized lineage of cleptoparasites of nomioidine bees is recorded for the first time. Chiasmognathus batelkai sp. n. is distinguished from mainland African and Asian species. The genus Thyreus Panzer (Apinae: Melectini) is represented by four species – Thyreus denolii sp. n., T. batelkai sp. n., T. schwarzi sp. n., and T. aistleitneri sp. n. Previous records of Thyreus scutellaris (Fabricius) from the islands were based on misidentifications.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

New species of Vomerina Winterton (Diptera, Therevidae, Agapophytinae) from Australia
Two new species of Vomerina Winterton, 2007 (V. comapenis sp. n. and V. micora sp. n.) are described from New South Wales (Australia).
["Asiloidea"]

Two new apterous species of Lathrobium Gravenhorst (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from Fujian, East China
Two new apterous species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst, 1802 from Fujian Province, East China, L. daocongchaoi Peng & Li, sp. n. and L. fujianense Peng & Li, sp. n., are described and illustrated.

Australian Assassins, Part III: A review of the Assassin Spiders (Araneae, Archaeidae) of tropical north-eastern Queensland
The assassin spiders of the family Archaeidae from tropical north-eastern Queensland are revised, with eight new species described from rainforest habitats of the Wet Tropics bioregion and Mackay-Whitsundays Hinterland: A. griswoldi sp. n., A. hoskini sp. n., A. karenae sp. n., A. tealei sp. n., A. thompsoni sp.n., A. wallacei sp. n., A. westi sp. n. and A. woodae sp. n. Specimens of the only previously described species, A. daviesae Forster & Platnick, 1984, are redescribed from the southern Atherton Tableland. The rainforests of tropical eastern Queensland are found to be a potential hotspot of archaeid diversity and endemism, with the region likely to be home to numerous additional short-range endemic taxa. A key to species complements the taxonomy, with maps, natural history information and conservation assessments provided for all species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The first native Pyrgodesmidae (Diplopoda, Polydesmida) from Australia
Three new genera and six new species of Pyrgodesmidae are described from Queensland: Asticopyrgodesmus gen. n., containing A. lamingtonensis sp. n. and A. maiala sp. n. (type species); Nephopyrgodesmus gen. n., with N. eungella sp. n. (type and only species); and Notopyrgodesmus gen. n., with N. kulla sp. n. (type species), N. lanosus sp. n. and N. weiri sp. n. Localities and specimen data are given in an Appendix for undescribed Australian Pyrgodesmidae occurring in wet forests from the Northern Territory south to New South Wales, and on Lord Howe Island.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Redescription of Takahashia citricola Kuwana, 1909, and its transfer to the genus Pulvinaria Targioni Tozzetti (Coccoidea: Coccidae)
The Japanese soft scale Takahashia citricola Kuwana, 1909 is redescribed and transferred to the genus Pulvinaria Targioni Tozzetti as Pulvinaria citricola (Kuwana, 1909), comb. n. (Coccoidea: Coccidae). Pulvinaria gamazumii Kanda, 1960 is synonymized with P. citricola comb. n. and Pulvinaria nipponica Lindinger, 1933, is resurrected as the replacement name for Pulvinaria citricola Kuwana, 1914 (nec Kuwana, 1909). The adult female of P. citricola (Kuwana, 1909) is redescribed and illustrated.
["Takahashia citricola"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new species of the genus Helcogramma (Blenniiformes, Tripterygiidae) from Taiwan
A new species of triplefin fish (Blenniiformes: Tripterygiidae), Helcogramma williamsi, is described from six specimens collected from southern Taiwan. This species is well distinguished from its congeners by possessing 13 second dorsal-fin spines; third dorsal-fin rays modally 11; anal-fin rays modally 19; pored scales in lateral line 22-24; dentary pore pattern modally 5+1+5; lobate supraorbital cirrus; broad, serrated or palmate nasal cirrus; first dorsal fin lower in height than second; males with yellow mark extending from anterior tip of upper lip to anterior margin of eye and a whitish blue line extending from corner of mouth onto preopercle. Comparisons and a diagnostic key are provided for the species of Helcogramma now known from Taiwan: H. fuscipectoris, H. inclinata, H. striata, H. trigloides, and the newly recorded, H. rhinoceros.
["Fish fauna"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A comparison of two common flight interception traps to survey tropical arthropods
Tropical forests are predicted to harbor most of the insect diversity on earth, but few studies have been conducted to characterize insect communities in tropical forests. One major limitation is the lack of consensus on methods for insect collection. Deciding which insect trap to use is an important consideration for ecologists and entomologists, yet to date few study has presented a quantitative comparison of the results generated by standardized methods in tropical insect communities. Here, we investigate the relative performance of two flight interception traps, the windowpane trap, and the more widely used malaise trap, across a broad gradient of lowland forest types in French Guiana. The windowpane trap consistently collected significantly more Coleoptera and Blattaria than the malaise trap, which proved most effective for Diptera, Hymenoptera, and Hemiptera. Orthoptera and Lepidoptera were not well represented using either trap, suggesting the need for additional methods such as bait traps and light traps. Our results of contrasting trap performance among insect orders underscore the need for complementary trapping strategies using multiple methods for community surveys in tropical forests.
["flight interception trap"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A study on the apterous genus Clytomelegena Pic, 1928 (Coleoptera, Disteniidae)
The genus Noeconia Murzin, 1988 is synonymized with Clytomelegena Pic, 1928. Clytomelegena kabakovi (Murzin, 1988), comb. n. is newly recorded from China (Guangxi Prov.). And Laos (Attapeu Prov.) is a new locality of this genus. Both sexes are apterous. Photographs and genitalic descriptions of C. kabakovi are presented for the first time.
["Clytomelegena Pic"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Aphanius arakensis, a new species of tooth-carp (Actinopterygii, Cyprinodontidae) from the endorheic Namak Lake basin in Iran
A new species of tooth-carp, Aphanius arakensis sp. n., is described from the Namak Lake basin in Iran. The new species is distinguished by the congeners distributed in Iran by the following combination of characters: 10–12 anal fin rays, 28–32 lateral line scales, 10–13 caudal peduncle scales, 8–10 gill rakers, 12–19, commonly 15–16, clearly defined flank bars in males, a more prominent pigmentation along the flank added by relatively big blotches in the middle and posterior flank segments in females, a short but high antirostrum of the otolith that has a wide excisura, and a ventral rim with some small, drop-like processes, and 19 molecular apomorphies (17 transitions, two transversions) in the cytochrome b gene. It was suggested based on the phylogenetic analysis that the new species is sister to A. sophiae from the Kor River and that A. farsicus from the Maharlu Lake basin is sister to A. arakensis plus A. sophiae. A noticeable feature of the Aphanius diversity in Iran is the conservatism of the external morphology as well as morphometric and meristic characters, while distinctive differences are present in genetic characters, otolith morphology, and male color pattern. Transformation of the latter was probably driven by sexual selection.
["Male color patterm"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Two new species and new record of Batricavus Yin & Li (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from China
Two new species, Batricavus abdominalis Yin & Li, sp. n. and B. hainanensis Yin & Li, sp. n. are described from Hainan, South China, with male habitus and major diagnostic features illustrated. Batricavus tibialis Yin & Li is newly recorded from Zhejiang, East China. Keys to both sexes of the genus are included.

Austromesocypris bluffensis sp. n. (Crustacea, Ostracoda, Cypridoidea, Scottiinae) from subterranean aquatic habitats in Tasmania, with a key to world species of the subfamily
Austromesocypris bluffensis sp. n. is described and we report another species, Austromesocypris sp., both collected from subterranean aquatic habitats in Tasmania. This discovery adds a major taxonomic group to the already diverse invertebrate cave fauna of Tasmania, and is of interest because, globally, obligate subterranean aquatic species (stygobites) are poorly represented within the family Cyprididae. The genus Austromesocypris Martens, De Deckker & Rossetti, 2004 is otherwise known to comprise entirely “terrestrial or semi-terrestrial” species. The second species is not described because only juvenile specimens were collected. Both species stand apart from their congeners by the carapace shape, which is rectangular in A. bluffensis and triangular and asymmetrical in the unnamed species. Another unique feature of the new species is the almost symmetrical uropodal rami. We also identify some broader systematic issues within the Scottiinae including the position of two New Zealand species, Scottia audax (Chapman, 1961) and S. insularis Chapman, 1963 in the genus, and point out their closer relationship to the Gondwana genera of Scottiinae, Austromesocypris and Mesocypris Daday, 1910, than to the Palearctic genus Scottia Brady & Norman, 1889, based on the morphology of the maxillula and mandibula. The identity of the Australian records of Scottia audax (Chapman, 1961), Austromesocypris australiensis (De Deckker, 1983) and the Boreal records of Scottia pseudobrowniana Kempf, 1971 are all considered doubtful. A key to the world species of Scottiinae is provided.
["Ostracods"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Karst Systems and Hydrogeology"]

The preimaginal stages of Pnigalio gyamiensis Myartseva & Kurashev, 1990 (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae), a parasitoid associated with Chrysoesthia sexguttella (Thunberg) (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae)
The larval instars of Pnigalio gyamiensis Myartseva and Kurashev are described in detail for the first time. This species is a larval-pupal ectoparasitoid of Chrysoesthia sexguttella (Thunberg) (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae), which forms leaf mines in the plant Chenopodium album L. (Caryophyllales: Amaranthaceae). The female of P. gyamiensis lays a single egg on the skin of the host larva or nearby it, without any significant preference for a particular variant. The presence of long hairs on its body provides the newly-hatched first larval instar with high mobility. Some peculiarities in this parasitoid-host relationship are described.

Description of a new species of coral-inhabiting barnacle, Darwiniella angularis sp. n. (Cirripedia, Pyrgomatidae) from Taiwan
The present study has identified a new species from the previously monotypic genus Darwiniella Anderson, 1992. Darwiniella angularis sp. n. is similar to D. conjugatum (Darwin, 1854) in external shell morphology and arthropodal characters. Darwiniella conjugatum, however, has a sharper tergal spur and a less obvious adductor plate angle when compared to D. angularis sp. n. Molecular analyses on mitochondrial DNA 12S rDNA and COI regions also support the morphological differences. Sequence divergences in 12S rDNA and COI between D. conjugatum and D. angularis sp. n. are 5% and 13% respectively, which are equivalent to the inter-specific sequence divergences in other barnacles. Both Darwiniella species are common on Cyphastrea Milne-Edwards and Haime, 1848 corals and D. angularis sp. n. is also collected from Astreopora de Blainville, 1830 corals in Taiwan.=
["Barnacles"]

Five new species and three new females of the genus Endotricha Zeller from China (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Pyralinae)
Five new species of the genus Endotricha Zeller are described from China: Endotricha dentiprocessa sp. n., E. unicolor sp. n., E. shafferi sp. n., E. convexa sp. n. and E. whalleyi sp. n. Females of three species are described for the first time: E. hoenei Whalley, 1963, E. luteogrisalis Hampson, 1896 and E. simipunicea Wang & Li, 2005. Photographs of the adults and both male and female genitalia are provided.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

An aberrant species of Nipponocercyon from Sichuan, China (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Sphaeridiinae)
A detailed examination of specimens of Cryptopleurum sichuanicum Ryndevich, 2005 from high altitudes of Sichuan Province, China, revealed that the species belongs in the genus Nipponocercyon Satô, 1963 previously endemic to Japan. The species is here transferred in Nipponocercyon, and N. sichuanicus (Ryndevich, 2005), comb. n. is redescribed and compared with N. shibatai Satô, 1963. The male genitalia of N. sichuanicus is described for the first time. An adapted diagnosis of Nipponocercyon is provided, and reasons for the inclusion of N. sichuanicus into Nipponocercyon and the general distribution of the genus are discussed.
["Hydrophilidae"]

Description of two new Stenohya species from China (Pseudoscorpiones, Neobisiidae)
Two new species of the genus Stenohya Beier, 1967 are described from China: Stenohya pengae sp. n. (male and female; type locality Daming Mountain, Nanning City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region) and S. huangi sp. n. (female; type locality Gushan Mountain, Fuzhou City, Fujian Prov.). The presence of S. pengae sp. n. in the tree crown of Castanopsis fabri represents a new habitat for Neobisiidae. A key and a distribution map of the Chinese Stenohya species are also provided.
["Pseudoscorpions"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A revision of the genus Mecistostethus Marseul (Histeridae, Histerinae, Exosternini)
We revise the genus Mecistostethus Marseul, sinking the monotypic genus Tarsilister Bruch as a junior synonym. Mecistostethus contains six valid species: M. pilifer Marseul, M. loretoensis (Bruch), comb. n., M. seagorum sp. n., M. carltoni sp. n., M. marseuli sp. n., and M. flechtmanni sp. n. The few existing records show the genus to be widespread in tropical and subtropical South America, from northern Argentina to western Amazonian Ecuador and French Guiana. Only a single host record associates one species with the ant Pachycondyla striata Smith (Formicidae: Ponerinae), but it is possible that related ants host all the species.

Revised concept of the genus Euryporus Erichson (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae) and phylogenetic significance of Staphylinini from New Guinea
The Staphylinini rove beetle genus Euryporus Erichson from the subtribe Quediina is restricted to include only three species from the Western Palearctic region: E. picipes (Paykull, 1800), E. aeneiventris (Lucas, 1846), and E. princeps Wollaston, 1864. Euryporus argentatus Fauvel, 1881, E. warisensis Last, 1987 and E. multicavus Last, 1980, which do not even belong to the subtribe Quediina, are excluded from the genus. Of these, two were transferred to different genera: Tympanophorus argentatus (Fauvel, 1881), comb. nov., from Sumatra; and Hesperus warisensis (Last, 1987), comb. nov., from New Guinea. “Euryporus” multicavus could not be placed to any of the described genera of Staphylinini and is left as incertae sedis pending a broader study of the relevant fauna of this tribe in New Guinea and adjacent regions. The taxonomic history of Euryporus is reviewed, and an updated diagnosis of this genus is provided.
["Euryporus"]

A new species of Apechoneura Kriechbaumer (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Labeninae) from Colombia
A new species of the ichneumonid subfamily Labeninae, Apechoneura seminigra sp. n., is described. Specimens were collected from the Amazon Rainforest of Colombia.

Review of the odd chrysidid genus Loboscelidia Westwood, 1874 (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae, Loboscelidiinae)
The chrysidid genus Loboscelidia is reviewed and 11 new species are described, including L. cinnamonea (Borneo), L. fulgens (Viet Nam), L. fulva (Thailand), L. incompleta (India), L. kafae (Borneo), L. laminata (Viet Nam), L. meifungae (Borneo), L. nasiformis (Thailand), L. nitidula (Thailand), L. pecki (Viet Nam), and L. sisik (Borneo). A key to males of the species of Loboscelidia is given.
["Viet Nam"]

A new species of the genus Microtendipes Kieffer, 1915 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from Oriental China
A new species of the genus Microtendipes Kieffer, 1915, M. zhejiangensis sp.n., is described, and its morphological description and illustrations are given. A catalogue of the genus in Oriental Region is provided and a key to the males of Microtendipes in the Oriental Region is given.
["Microtendipes"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

A new ant species of the genus Tapinoma (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Saudi Arabia with a key to the Arabian species
Tapinoma wilsoni sp. n. is described and illustrated from Saudi Arabia based on the worker caste collected from Al Baha, Saudi Arabia. It closely resembles Tapinoma lugubre Santschi 1917, from Zimbabwe in body measurements but can be distinguished from the latter species by the yellowish brown color; the yellowish pubescence, the two pairs of hairs present on the anterior part of the head; and the distinctly concave anterior clypeal margin. Biological and ecological notes of the new species are presented. An identification key to the workers of the Arabian species of the genus Tapinoma is given.
["Dolichoderinae"]

Studies of the genus Enchodelus Thorne, 1939 (Nematoda, Nordiidae) from Arctic polar deserts. 1. Species with long odontostyle: E. makarovae sp. n. and E. groenlandicus (Ditlevsen, 1927) Thorne, 1939, with an identification key to the species of the E. macrodorus group
Two nematode species of the genus Enchodelus Thorne, 1939, one new and one known from Arctic polar deserts were studied. Enchodelus makarovae sp. n. is an amphimictic species, characterised by females with body length of 1.57–2.00 mm, lip region 15–17.5 µm wide, amphid duplex, odontostyle 38–43 µm long or 2.3–2.8 times lip region diam. Odontophore with flanges, 1.2–1.4 times as long as odontostyle; pharynx length 320–377 µm, pharyngeal expansion 113–130 µm long or 32–37% of total pharynx length; female genital system amphidelphic, uterus tripartite, pars refringens vaginae with two trapezoid sclerotisations, vulva a transverse slit (V=45–51%); tail bluntly conoid (25–35 µm, c=45.8–70.3, c’=0.6–0.9 in females, and 29–33 µm, c=46.4–58.9, c’=0.7–0.8 in males). Males with 65–74 µm long spicules and 10–12 spaced ventromedian supplements. Additional information for Enchodelus groenlandicus is provided, this being a new geographic record for the Putorana Plateau, Russian Arctic.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

A review of the genus Raveniola (Araneae, Nemesiidae) in China, with notes on allied genera and description of four new species from Yunnan
The Chinese representatives of Raveniola Zonstein, 1987 are currently recognized to comprise seven species. Four new species – R. montana sp. n. (♂♀), R. shangrila sp. n. (♂), R. songi sp. n. (♂) and R. yunnanensis sp. n. (♂) – are described from the highlands of Yunnan Province, China. According to some characters (shape of the palpus, palpal tibia and tibia I in males) they can be placed together with R. hebeinica Zhu, Zhang & Zhang, 1999 and with R. guangxi (Raven & Schwendinger, 1995) comb. n., transferred here from Sinopesa Raven & Schwendinger, 1995. The current generic position of R. xizangensis (Hu & Li, 1987) is confirmed. Other Chinese nemesiids referred previously to Raveniola are transferred to Sinopesa: S. chinensis (Kulczyński, 1901) comb. n., S. sinensis (Zhu & Mao, 1983) comb. n. and S. chengbuensis (Xu & Yun, 2002) comb. n. The relationships between these Asian genera and their relations to Afrotropical nemesiids are discussed.

A world checklist of Onychophora (velvet worms), with notes on nomenclature and status of names
Currently, the number of valid species of Onychophora is uncertain. To facilitate taxonomic work on this understudied animal group, we present an updated checklist for the two extant onychophoran subgroups, Peripatidae and Peripatopsidae, along with an assessment of the status of each species. According to our study, 82 species of Peripatidae and 115 species of Peripatopsidae have been described thus far. However, among these 197 species, 20 are nomina dubia due to major taxonomic inconsistencies. Apart from nomina dubia, many of the valid species also require revision, in particular representatives of Paraperipatus within the Peripatopsidae, and nearly all species of Peripatidae. In addition to extant representatives, the record of unambiguous fossils includes three species with uncertain relationship to the extant taxa. For all species, we provide a list of synonyms, information on types and type localities, as well as remarks on taxonomic and nomenclatural problems and misspellings. According to recent evidence of high endemism and cryptic speciation among the Peripatidae and Peripatopsidae, previous synonyms are revised. Putative mutations, subspecies and variations are either raised to the species status or synonymised with corresponding taxa. In our revised checklist, we follow the rules and recommendations of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature to clarify previous inconsistencies.
["Peripatidae"]
["Tardigrade Biology and Ecology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

A new genus of oak gallwasps, Zapatella Pujade-Villar & Melika, gen. n., with a description of two new species from the Neotropics (Hymenoptera, Cynipidae, Cynipini)
A new genus of cynipid oak gallwasp, Zapatella Pujade-Villar & Melika, gen. n. (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Cynipini), with two new species, Zapatella grahami Pujade-Villar & Melika, sp. n. and Z. nievesaldreyi Melika & Pujade-Villar, sp. n., is described from the Neotropics. Zapatella grahami, known only from the sexual generation, induces galls in acorns of Quercus costaricensis and is currently known only from Costa Rica. Zapatella nievesaldreyi, known only from the asexual generation, induces inconspicuous galls in twigs of Q. humboldtii, and is known only from Colombia. Diagnostic characters for both new species are given in detail. Five Nearctic species are transferred from Callirhytis to Zapatella: Z. cryptica (Weld), comb. n., Z. herberti (Weld), comb. n., Z. oblata (Weld), comb. n., Z. quercusmedullae (Ashmead), comb. n., Z. quercusphellos (Osten Sacken), comb. n. (= Z. quercussimilis (Bassett), syn. n.). A key based on adults for the species belonging to Zapatella is also given. Generic limits and morphological characteristics of Zapatella and closely related genera are discussed.
["Cynipini"]

Notes about morphological features of the Western Hemisphere subtribe Ardistomina, and revision of genus Semiardistomis Kult (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Scaritinae, Clivinini)
Comparisons of structural features (principally mouthparts, elytral-abdominal locking mechanism, and female genitalia) of the ardistomine genera (Aspidoglossa Putzeys, Ardistomis Putzeys, and Semiardistomis Kult) with those features of members of the subtribe Clivinina (Clivina Latreille, Oxydrepanus Putzeys, Schizogenius Putzeys, Ancus Putzeys, Nyctosyles Putzeys, and Obadius Burmeister) confirm the taxonomic validity of the subtribe Ardistomina. Based on morphological features, the ardistomine genera are postulated to be related as follows: [Aspidoglossa [Ardistomis + Semiardistomis]]. Knowledge of this subtribe is further extended by taxonomic treatment of the genus Semiardistomis Kult. Of the 30 valid names of Semiardistomis previously recognized, four were proposed as variety names, and are listed as junior synonyms: Ardistomis labialis picipes Bates, 1881, A. l. nanus Bates, 1881, and A. l. dilatatus Bates, 1881; and A. pallipes caerulea Putzeys, 1846. Eight names, treated as specific epithets, are junior synonyms, as follows: Ardistomis (Semiardistomis) balthasari Kult, 1950 = Semiardistomis glabratus (Putzeys, 1866); A. (S.) emdeni Kult, 1950 = S. deletus (Putzeys, 1846); A. aenea Putzeys, 1866, A. (S.) brittoni Kult, 1950, and A. (S.) marani Kult, 1950 = S. flavipes (Dejean, 1831); A. tuspanensis Putzeys, 1846 = S. labialis (Chaudoir, 1837); A. (S.) vlastae Kult, 1950 = S. subglabra (van Emden, 1949); and A. striga Putzeys, 1866 = S. pallipes (Dejean, 1831). Two new species described are S. exspectatus sp. n. (type locality PERU, Madre de Dios, Rio Manu, 11°56`47"S, 071°17`00"W), and S. major sp. n. (type locality PERU, Loreto, Rio Samiria, 05°12`S, 75°20`W). The 20 species of Semiardistomis are arranged in two species–groups here proposed: the puncticollis group, including 12 species; and labialis group, including eight species. The species recognized are keyed, described or redescribed, and notes are provided about their Geographical distribution, habitat and activity. Distribution maps show known geographical ranges, from which are inferred patterns of speciation from a center of radiation in northern South America of both lineages.

Two new species of Megacanthaspis Takagi (Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha, Coccoidea, Diaspididae) from China
Two new species of armored scale, Megacanthaspis hangzhouensis Wei & Feng, sp. n. and M. hainanensis Wei & Feng, sp. n. are described and illustrated from specimens collected from China. A key to adult female of Megacanthaspis species is provided.

Two new species of Bryophaenocladius Thienemann, 1934 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from China
Two new species of Bryophaenocladius Thienemann, 1934, B. mucronatus sp. n. and B. parictericus sp. n. are described and illustrated as males. A key to male imagines of the genus from China is presented.

Two new species of Olecryptotendipes Zorina, 2007 from China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Two new species, Olecryptotendipes exilis sp. n. and O. melasmus sp. n. are described and illustrated as males and Chinese males of O. lenzi are re-examined. A key to all known males of Olecryptotendipes is provided.

Surprising longhorned beetle (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) richness along an Italian alpine valley
In this paper we report about 88 longhorned beetles (Cerambycidae) species found in 6929 hectares and distributed along an altitudinal gradient of 1500 m of an Italian alpine valley (Val Genova, central-eastern Italian Alps). The species richness, result merging data from sixty years (1947–2007) of entomological surveys, corresponds to the 32% of the Italian cerambycid fauna confirming the high richness/surface ratio, probably unique in the Alps. The effect of thirteen environmental variables was tested on the species richness, but only the elevation resulted able to affect it. The species richness decrease with altitude not gradually, but experience a strong step above 1700 m a.s.l.. The highest species richness (average values of 42 species) was recorded at the lowest and mid elevations (between 800 and 1600 m a.s.l.). The species turnover along the altitudinal gradient is low suggesting moderate habitat turnover along the valley.One of the eighty-eight observed species, Tragosoma depsarium, is classified near threatened by the IUCN. Our data suggest that the wilderness of the valley close to the suitable management of grasslands and forests, help to support high level of cerambycids diversity. This biodiversity is good indicators of health of the wood saproxylic assemblages, as well an important food source for many vertebrate predators.
["Cerambycids"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A new species and new records of Laelaspis Berlese (Acari, Laelapidae) from Iran
This paper reports on three species of mites of the genus Laelaspis in Iran – Laelaspis calidus Berlese from Pheidole pallidula, L. humeratus (Berlese) from Tetramorium caespitum and L. dariusi Joharchi & Jalaeian, sp. n. from soil. The new species is described and illustrations provided.
["Laelapidae"]

Sexual dimorphism in shells of Cochlostoma septemspirale (Caenogastropoda, Cyclophoroidea, Diplommatinidae, Cochlostomatinae)
Sexual dimorphisms in shell-bearing snails expressed by characteristic traits of their respective shells would offer the possibility for a lot of studies about gender distribution in populations, species, etc. In this study, the seven main shell characters of the snail Cochlostoma septemspirale were measured in both sexes: (1) height and (2) width of the shell, (3) height and (4) width of the aperture, (5) width of the last whorl, (6) rib density on the last whorl, and (7) intensity of the reddish or brown pigments forming three bands over the shell. The variation of size and shape was explored with statistical methods adapted to principal components analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). In particular, we applied some multivariate morphometric tools for the analysis of ratios that have been developed only recently, that is, the PCA ratio spectrum, allometry ratio spectrum, and LDA ratio extractor. The overall separation of the two sexes was tested with LDA cross validation.The results show that there is a sexual dimorphism in the size and shape of shells. Females are more slender than males and are characterised by larger size, a slightly reduced aperture height but larger shell height and whorl width. Therefore they have a considerable larger shell volume (about one fifth) in the part above the aperture. Furthermore, the last whorl of females is slightly less strongly pigmented and mean rib density slightly higher. All characters overlap quite considerably between sexes. However, by using cross validation based on the 5 continuous shell characters more than 90% of the shells can be correctly assigned to each sex.
["Sexual dimorphism"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Three new species of Atopsyche Banks (Trichoptera, Hydrobiosidae) from Brazil
Three new species of Atopsyche Banks (Hydrobiosidae) from Brazil are described and illustrated: Atopscyhe (Atopsaura) blahniki sp. n., Atopsyche (Atopsyche) parauna sp. n., and Atopsyche (Atopsaura) galharada sp. n. Additional illustrations of the male genitalia of A. urumarca Schmid are provided, including its populational variation. Also, we provide new state records for 2 species: A. (Atopsyche) urumarca from São Paulo, and A. (Atopsaura) plancki Marlier from Santa Catarina.

A new species of Orobdella (Hirudinida, Arhynchobdellida, Orobdellidae) from Taipei, Taiwan
A new quadrannulate species of Orobdella, Orobdella ketagalan sp. n., from Taipei, Taiwan, is described. This is the first record of Orobdella and the family Orobdellidae from Taiwan. This new species possesses small, paired sperm duct bulbs in the male reproductive system. In addition to these bulbs, the following combination of characters distinguishes this new species from other quadrannulate species: somite IV uniannulate, male gonopore at XI b6, female gonopore at XIII a1, 1/2 + 4 + 1/2 between gonopores, simple tubular gastroporal duct, lacking epididymides, and undeveloped atrial cornua. Phylogenetic analyses using nuclear 18S rDNA and histone H3 as well as mitochondrial COI, 12S rDNA, tRNAVal, and 16S rDNA markers showed that O. ketagalan is related to the two Ryukyu Archipelago species Orobdella dolichopharynx Nakano, 2011 and Orobdella shimadae Nakano, 2011.
["Hirudinida"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

White-toothed shrews (Mammalia, Soricomorpha, Crocidura) of coastal islands of Vietnam
New findings of the white-toothed shrews (Crocidura spp.) from offshore islands of Vietnam are reported. The species identifications have been confirmed by the analysis of complete mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (1140 bp). Crocidura phuquocensis is the only species found in the Phu Quoc Island. Crocidura fuliginosa has been recorded from two islands of the Con Dao Archipelago (Con Son and Bai Canh). The occurrence of C. fuliginosa in Vietnam has been genetically confirmed for the first time. Crocidura attenuata has been collected from the Cat Ba Island for the first time, and this finding corresponds well with the proposal that the species’ distribution is confined to the north and east of the Red River only.
["Crocidura fuliginosa"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Taxonomic studies on genus Tetramorium Mayr (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) with report of two new species and three new records including a tramp species from India with a revised key
Two new species of Tetramorium Mayr, namely T. shivalikense sp. n. and T. triangulatum sp. n. are described. Tetramorium triangulatum sp. n. belongs to the inglebyi-species group and is described based on worker, queen and male caste, while T. shivalikense sp. n. belongs to the ciliatum-species group and is described based on worker caste only. Three species viz., T. caldarium (Roger), T. tonganum Mayr and T. urbanii Bolton represent first records from India. The male caste is described for the first time in the case of T. tonganum. Among these, T. caldarium is a tramp species which extends its limit to India as well. A revised key to the Indian ants of this genus is also provided herewith.
["Tetramorium"]

A new genus and species of Metopiinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from Mexico
A new genus of Metopiinae, Ojuelos Khalaim, gen. n., with a single species, Ojuelos juachicus Khalaim & Ruíz-Cancino, sp. n., is described from Jalisco Province in central Mexico. Ojuelos belongs to the group of three genera (Cubus Townes & Townes, Colpotrochia Holmgren and Triclistus Förster)a high lamella separating the antennal sockets and reaching the median ocellus (this lamella possesses a dorsal groove in it, just below the median ocellus), but differs from these genera primarily by 1) face and clypeus not convex in lateral view, 2) face separated from clypeus by a shallow transverse impression, 3) mandible with lower tooth very strongly reduced, 4) flagellomeres of antenna strongly transverse, and 5) dorsal carinae of propodeum reduced. A portion of the key to the genera of Metopiinae is provided to distinguish the new genus.
["North America"]

Review of the Berosus Leach of Venezuela (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Berosini) with description of fourteen new species
The species of the water scavenger beetle genus Berosus Leach occurring in Venezuela are reviewed. Thirty-six species are recorded, including fifteen new species, fourteen of which are described here as new: B. aragua sp. n., B. asymmetricus sp. n., B. capanaparo sp. n., B. castaneus sp. n., B. corozo sp. n., B. ebeninus sp. n., B. garciai sp. n., B. humeralis sp. n., B. jolyi sp. n., B. llanensis sp. n., B. megaphallus sp. n., B. ornaticollis sp. n., B. repertus sp. n., and B. tramidrum sp. n. The fifteenth new species, known from a single female, is left undescribed pending the collection of males. Twelve species are recorded from Venezuela for the first time: B. ambogynus Mouchamps, B. consobrinus Knisch, B. elegans Knisch, B. geayi d’Orchymont, B. ghanicus d’Orchymont, B. guyanensis Queney, B. holdhausi Knisch, B. marquardti Knisch, B. olivae Queney, B. reticulatus Knisch, B. wintersteineri Knisch, and B. zimmermanni Knisch.

First description of the male with redescription of the female of Araneus strandiellus Charitonov, 1951 (Araneae, Araneidae)
Redescription of Central Asian orb-weaver Araneus strandiellus Charitonov, 1951, only known from the original description of female. The male of this species, previously unknown, is described here for the first time.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Soil and Environmental Studies"]

A review of the spider genus Haplodrassus Chamberlin, 1922 in Crimea (Ukraine) and adjacent areas (Araneae, Gnaphosidae)
Eight species of Haplodrassus are recorded from Crimea: H. bohemicus Miller & Buchar, 1977; H. dalmatensis (L. Koch, 1866); H. isaevi Ponomarev & Tsvetkov, 2006; H. minor (O. P.-Cambridge, 1879); H. kulczynskii Lohmander, 1942; H. pseudosignifer Marusik, Hippa & Koponen, 1996; H. signifer (C.L. Koch, 1839) and H. umbratilis (L. Koch, 1866). The occurrence of H. cognatus (Westring, 1861) in Crimea has not been confirmed. Haplodrassus bohemicus is a new species record for the Crimean fauna. Haplodrassus pseudosignifer is a new species record for Crimea and Ukraine as a whole, with Crimea as the westernmost point of its distribution range. Haplodrassus invalidus is recorded for the first time for the fauna of Azerbaijan, Caucasus and the former Soviet Union. Azerbaijan is the easternmost point of its known distribution range. All Crimean Haplodrassus species have only one peak of activity of adult specimens during the year. In Crimea we found syntopically two closely related species H. dalmatensis and H. isaevi in two localities (Sudak Distr., 10 km W Sudak, Mezhdurechie Vill., steppe; and Feodosiya Distr., Karadag Nature Reserve, steppes). These species differ in their phenology. The reproductive period of H. dalmatensis is in May-July, and that of H. isaevi occurs is in October-December. These phenological differences probably represent an additional mechanism of reproductive isolation between the two species. Diagnostic drawings are provided for all mentioned species as well as for H. deserticola Schmidt & Krause, 1996 and H. pugnans (Simon, 1880).
["Haplodrassus"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Three new species of Lathrobium Gravenhorst (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from Sichuan, Southwest China
Three new species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst, 1802 from Sichuan Province, Southwest China are described and illustrated: L. acutissimum sp. n., L. hailuogouense sp. n. and L. labahense sp. n. A checklist of Chinese Lathrobium is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

A review of North American Recent Radiolucina (Bivalvia, Lucinidae) with the description of a new species
North American members in the genus Radiolucina are reviewed. A lectotype for the type species, Radiolucina amianta, is designated and descriptions and illustrations are provided. A description of a new species, Radiolucina jessicae, from the west coast of Mexico is presented. Key diagnostic species characteristics are outlined and compared among members of the genus.
["Lucinidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Review of the Eospilarctia yuennanica group (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae) from the Indo – Himalayan region, with description of two new species and one subspecies
Two new Eospilarctia species and one new subspecies from China, Myanmar and Vietnam, respectively, are described. Superficially the new species Eospilarctia maciai sp. n., Eospilarctia naumanni sp. n. and Eospilarctia yuennanica fansipana ssp. n. resemble related congeners but they can be distinguished by the differences in wing pattern, genitalia and distribution provided. Eospilarctia yuennanica guangdonga Dubatolov, Kishida & Wang, 2008 is upgraded to species level. A checklist of the genus Eospilarctia and a key to the Eospilarctia yuennanica (Daniel, 1943) species-group, based on external characters and male genitalia, is presented.
["Arctiinae"]

First record of the genus Bankisus Navás, 1912 in China, with the description of a new species (Neuroptera, Myrmeleontidae)
A new species of Bankisus Navás, 1912, (Bankisus sparsus sp. n.) is described and illustrated with the genus newly recorded from China. A key to species of Bankisus is provided.
["Antlion"]

Snakefly diversity in Early Cretaceous amber from Spain (Neuropterida, Raphidioptera)
The Albian amber from Spain presently harbors the greatest number and diversity of amber adult fossil snakeflies (Raphidioptera). Within Baissopteridae, Baissoptera? cretaceoelectra sp. n., from the Peñacerrada I outcrop (Moraza, Burgos), is the first amber inclusion belonging to the family and described from western Eurasia, thus substantially expanding the paleogeographical range of the family formerly known from the Cretaceous of Brazil and eastern Asia. Within the family Mesoraphidiidae, Necroraphidia arcuata gen. et sp. n. and Amarantoraphidia ventolina gen. et sp. n. are described from the El Soplao outcrop (Rábago, Cantabria), whereas Styporaphidia? hispanica sp. n. and Alavaraphidia imperterrita gen. et sp. n. are described from Peñacerrada I. In addition, three morphospecies are recognized from fragmentary remains. The following combinations are restored: Yanoraphidia gaoi Ren, 1995 stat. rest., Mesoraphidia durlstonensis Jepson, Coram and Jarzembowski, 2009 stat. rest., and Mesoraphidia heteroneura Ren, 1997 stat. rest. The singularity of this rich paleodiversity could be due to the paleogeographic isolation of the Iberian territory and also the prevalence of wildfires during the Cretaceous.
["Holometabola"]

Water mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia) from Baishih River drainage in Northern Taiwan, with description of two new species
New records of water mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from Baishih River drainage of north Taiwan, are presented. Twelve species are recorded, of which ten are new for Taiwan; two of them, Torrenticola projectura and Hygrobates taiwanicus are described as new for science.

Description of Crassolabium persicum sp. n. (Nematoda, Dorylaimida, Qudsianematidae), an interesting species from Iran
A new species of the genus Crassolabium, C. persicum sp. n., collected from Arasbaran rangelands of Iran, is described and illustrated. It is characterized by its body 1.92–2.40 mm long, lip region offset by constriction and 17–19 µm wide, odontostyle 16–19 µm long with aperture occupying less than one–third (27–30%) its length, neck 428–690 µm long, pharyngeal expansion 308–390 µm long or occupying 54–56% of total neck length, female genital system amphidelphic, uterus bipartite and 162–218 µm long or 2.3–3.5 times as long as body diameter, pars refringens vaginae well developed, V = 54–58, vulva longitudinal, prerectum bearing a blind sac, tail conical with rounded tip to conoid (25–36 µm, c=60–72, c’=0.5–0.9), spicules 68–72 µm long, precloacal pair of supplements far (22–27 µm) from cloacal aperture, and 13–17 shortly spaced ventromedian supplements with hiatus. The new taxon is compared in depth to its relatives in Crassolabium as well as other similar species of Aporcelaimellus and Amblydorylaimus.
["Crassolabium"]

A key to known species of Episcapha (subgenus Ephicaspa Chûjô) (Coleoptera, Erotylidae, Megalodacnini), with the description of two new species
Two new species Episcapha (Ephicaspa) lushuiensis sp. n. and Episcapha (Ephicaspa) quadriconcava sp. n. are described and illustrated from China. A key to known species of subgenus Ephicaspa is provided. A map of the collecting sites is given.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of Oxelytrum Gistel (Coleoptera, Silphidae) from southern Argentina, with a key to the species of the genus
A new species of the forensically interesting genus Oxelytrum Gistel (Coleoptera, Silphidae), O. selknan, is described from Santa Cruz and Tierra del Fuego provinces, Argentina. The new species resembles O. biguttatum (Philippi) in outer aspect, but has different male genitalia, in particular a median lobe longer than the paramera. All the described species of Oxelytrum have the median lobe shorter than the paramera. The internal sac, as far as it could be reconstructed from dry-pinned specimens, also shows differences between the two species. A key to the species of Oxelytrum is given and illustrated.
["Silphidae"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Revision of the Afrotropical Oberthuerellinae (Cynipoidea, Liopteridae)
The Afrotropical Oberthuerellinae are revised, and new dichotomous and multi-entry keys to the species of Oberthuerella, Tessmannella, and Xenocynips are provided. All previously described species in these genera are redescribed; descriptions are augmented by color images of the holotype for each species. The following 11 species are described as new: Oberthuerella cyclopia Buffington & van Noort; O. eschara Buffington & van Noort; O. kibalensis van Noort & Buffington; O. pardolatus Buffington & van Noort; O. sharkeyi Buffington & van Noort; O. simba Buffington & van Noort; Tessmannella copelandi Buffington & van Noort; T. kiplingi Buffington & van Noort; T. roberti Buffington & van Noort; Xenocynips rhothion Buffington & van Noort; and X. ronquisti Buffington & van Noort. We provide identification keys to the genera and species occurring in the Afrotropical region. Online dichotomous and interactive Lucid keys to genera and species are available at http://www.waspweb.org/Cynipoidea/Keys/index.htm
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Caligus (Copepoda, Siphonostomatoida) from the plankton of the Caribbean coast of Venezuela with a key to species
During a survey of the zooplankton community of Bahía Amuay, Venezuelan Caribbean, specimens of an undescribed species of Caligus Müller were collected. It resembles C. xystercus Cressey and C. ocyurus Cressey, both known only from the Caribbean Sea. The new species can be distinguished from these and other congeners by a combination of characters including the armature of legs 1 and 4, but mainly by its unique female genital complex. This is the first species of Caligus described from Venezuela. The species is described in full and a key to the species of the genus recorded in Venezuela is provided.
["Parasitic copepods"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A review of the alderfly genus Leptosialis Esben-Petersen (Megaloptera, Sialidae) with description of a new species from South Africa
The monotypic South African alderfly genus Leptosialis Esben-Petersen, 1920 is reviewed and Leptosialis africana Esben-Petersen, 1920 is redescribed. In the process a new species of alderfly Leptosialis necopinata sp. n. from the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa is recognised and described. Within Sialidae the new species most closely resembles L. africana. A key to the two species of Leptosialis using both adult and larval characters is provided.
["Sialidae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Taxonomic overview of Polymixis serpentina (Treitschke, 1825) species-group, with the description of a new species (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Xyleninae)
The taxa of the Polymixis serpentina (Treitschke, 1825) species-group are revised. The external and genital features of all known taxa and a new species, P. ivanchiki sp. n. (Lebanon, Israel, Turkey and Iran) are described and illustrated. P. serpentina iatnana Hacker, 1996, is treated here as a species distinct from P. serpentina (stat. n.). A diagnostic comparison of the members of the species-group is provided; descriptions of the genitalia of Polymixis serpentina minoica Fibiger, 1992 and P. iatnana are given for the first time.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Plant and animal studies"]

First report of the exotic blue land planarian, Caenoplana coerulea (Platyhelminthes, Geoplanidae), on Menorca (Balearic Islands, Spain)
In April 2009 two specimens of a terrestrial flatworm were collected from under a rock in an orchard at Ciutadella de Menorca on the easternmost Balearic island of Menorca (Spain). Their external morphology suggested that both specimens belonged to the invasive blue planarian Caenoplana coerulea, a species which is native to eastern Australia. Sequence data of a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and of the entire 18S ribosomal RNA confirm its identification. This is one of the first records of the species in Europe where it has only been found in one locality in the United Kingdom, France and NE Spain.
["Terrestrial flatworm"]

Taxonomy and species-groups of the subgenus Crematogaster (Orthocrema) in the Malagasy region (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
The species-level taxonomy of the subgenus Crematogaster (Orthocrema) in the Malagasy region is evaluated with both morphological data from worker and queen ants, and genetic data from three nuclear markers (long wavelength rhodopsin, arginine kinase and carbamoylphosphate synthase). These two types of data support the existence of six Orthocrema species: Crematogaster madecassa Emery, C. rasoherinae Forel, C. telolafy sp. n., C. razana sp. n., C. volamena sp. n. and C. mpanjono sp. n.. Two new synonyms of C. rasoherinae Forel are recognized, C. rasoherinae brunneola Emery, syn. n. and C. voeltzkowi Forel, syn. n., as these were not supported as distinct taxa by the data. A neotype is designated for C. rasoherinae; lectotypes are designated for C. madecassa, C. rasoherinae brunneola and C. voeltzkowi. Species descriptions, images, distribution maps and identification keys based on worker and queen ants are given for all six species. A diagnosis of the subgenus Orthocrema in the Malagasy region is presented for both workers and queens. Within the Malagasy Orthocrema, three distinct phylogenetic lineages are suggested by molecular and morphological data. Newly defined monophyletic species-groups are thus the C. madecassa-group (C. madecassa, C. telolafy and C. razana) and the C. volamena-group (C. volamena and C. mpanjono); C. rasoherinae represents an isolated lineage in the Malagasy region and its closest relatives remain unclear. Other interesting biological findings are the presence of an intermediate caste between workers and queens in C. rasoherinae and C. madecassa, and unusually large workers in C. volamena resembling a major caste.
["Crematogaster"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new marine gobiid species of the genus Clariger Jordan & Snyder (Gobiidae, Teleostei) from Taiwan
A new species of Clariger Jordan & Snyder, 1901 was collected from northern Taiwan. The genus was previously known only from Japanese waters. This discovery is the first formal and southernmost record of these marine gobies from the waters of subtropical Taiwan. The new species, Clariger taiwanensis sp. n., is distinguished from its congeners by a unique combination of features: (1) fin rays: dorsal-fin rays III, I/8; anal-fin rays modally I/8; and pectoral-fin rays modally 19 (2+16+1); (2) longitudinal dermal ridge on head with 6 barbels; and (3) specific coloration pattern: head and trunk dark brown with scattered pale spots and blotches; cheek, ventral portion of head sometimes pale with deep brown spots; pectoral-fin base with a dark brown band; and caudal fin mostly dark brown proximally and with alternating and irregular dark brown and pale bands distally. A diagnostic key to all nominal species from Japan and Taiwan is provided.
["Fish fauna"]

Species of the genus Chrysotimus Loew from China (Diptera, Dolichopodidae)
The following three species are described as new to science: C. dalongensis sp. n., C. huairouensis sp. n., and C. hubeiensis sp. n., Chrysotimus apicicurvatus Yang, is recorded from Palaearctic China for the first time. A key to the Chinese species of the genus is presented.

A new species of Mengenilla (Insecta, Strepsiptera) from Tunisia
A new species of Mengenilla Hofeneder, 1910 (Strepsiptera, Mengenillidae) from southern Tunisia is described. Mengenilla moldrzyki sp. n. can be distinguished from congeners by a slightly emarginated posterodorsal margin of the head, compound eyes with a light tan dorsal part, mandibles with a narrow distal part, and a v-shaped pronotum. With the description of M. moldrzyki sp. n., eleven valid species of Mengenilla are currently recognised. Mengenilla moldrzyki sp. n. is the third species of the genus with known females and female puparia. First instar larvae, endoparasitic larval stages, the male puparium and the host are unknown. The new species is also the first strepsipteran with a fully sequenced genome.
["Mengenillidae"]

New systematic assignments in Gonyleptoidea (Arachnida, Opiliones, Laniatores)
As part of an ongoing revision of the family Gonyleptidae, we have identified many species that are synonyms of previously described species or misplaced in this family. This article summarizes these findings, adding previously unavailable information or correcting imprecise observations to justify the presented taxonomic changes.The following new familial or subfamilial assignments are proposed: Nemastygnus Roewer, 1929 and Taulisa Roewer, 1956 are transferred to Agoristenidae, Agoristeninae; Napostygnus Roewer, 1929 to Cranaidae; Ceropachylinus peruvianus Roewer, 1956 and Pirunipygus Roewer, 1936 are transferred to Gonyleptidae, Ampycinae; Gyndesops Roewer, 1943, Haversia Roewer, 1913 and Oxapampeus Roewer, 1963 are transferred to Gonyleptidae, Pachylinae.The following generic synonymies are proposed for the family Gonyleptidae: Acanthogonyleptes Mello-Leitão, 1922 = Centroleptes Roewer, 1943; Acrographinotus Roewer, 1929 = Unduavius Roewer, 1929; Gonyleptes Kirby, 1819 = Collonychium Bertkau, 1880; Mischonyx Bertkau, 1880 = Eugonyleptes Roewer, 1913 and Gonazula Roewer, 1930; Parampheres Roewer, 1913 = Metapachyloides Roewer, 1917; Pseudopucrolia Roewer, 1912 = Meteusarcus Roewer, 1913; Haversia Roewer, 1913 = Hoggellula Roewer, 1930.The following specific synonymies are proposed for the family Gonyleptidae: Acanthogonyleptes singularis (Mello-Leitão, 1935) = Centroleptes flavus Roewer, 1943, syn. n.; Geraeocormobius sylvarum Holmberg, 1887 = Discocyrtus serrifemur Roewer, 1943, syn. n.; Gonyleptellus bimaculatus (Sørensen, 1884) = Gonyleptes cancellatus Roewer, 1917, syn. n.; Gonyleptes atrus Mello-Leitão, 1923 = Weyhia brieni Giltay, 1928, syn. n.; Gonyleptes fragilis Mello-Leitão, 1923 = Gonyleptes banana Kury, 2003, syn. n.; Gonyleptes horridus Kirby, 1819 = Collonychium bicuspidatum Bertkau, 1880, syn. n., Gonyleptes borgmeyeri Mello-Leitão, 1932, syn. n., Gonyleptes curvicornis Mello-Leitão, 1932, syn. n., Metagonyleptes hamatus Roewer, 1913, syn. n. and Paragonyleptes simoni Roewer, 1930, syn. n.; Gonyleptes pustulatus Sørensen, 1884 = Gonyleptes guttatus Roewer, 1917, syn. n.; Haversia defensa (Butler, 1876) = Sadocus vallentini Hogg, 1913, syn. n.; Liogonyleptoides minensis (Piza, 1946) = Currala bahiensis Soares, 1972, syn. n.; Megapachylus grandis Roewer, 1913 = Metapachyloides almeidai Soares & Soares, 1946, syn. n.; Mischonyx cuspidatus (Roewer, 1913) = Gonazula gibbosa Roewer, 1930 syn. n.; Mischonyx scaber (Kirby, 1819) = Xundarava holacantha Mello-Leitão, 1927, syn. n.; Parampheres tibialis Roewer, 1917 = Metapachyloides rugosus Roewer, 1917, syn. n.; Parapachyloides uncinatus (Sørensen, 1879) = Goyazella armata Mello-Leitão, 1931, syn. n.; Pseudopucrolia mutica (Perty, 1833) = Meteusarcus armatus Roewer, 1913, syn. n.The following new combinations are proposed: Acrographinotus ornatus (Roewer, 1929), comb. n. (ex Unduavius); Gonyleptellus bimaculatus (Sørensen, 1884), comb. n. (ex Gonyleptes); Gonyleptes perlatus (Mello-Leitão, 1935), comb. n. (ex Moojenia); Mischonyx scaber (Kirby, 1819), comb. n. (ex Gonyleptes); and Neopachyloides peruvianus (Roewer, 1956), comb. n. (ex Ceropachylus).The following species of Gonyleptidae, Gonyleptinae are revalidated: Gonyleptes atrus Mello-Leitão, 1923 and Gonyleptes curvicornis (Roewer, 1913).
["Agoristenidae"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Serpula and Spiraserpula (Polychaeta, Serpulidae) from the Tropical Western Atlantic and Gulf of Guinea
Six species of Serpula and Spiraserpula were identified, mainly, from the material of the expeditions of the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami, including two new species of Serpula. Serpula madrigalae sp. n. from the Turks and Caicos has a tube with five longitudinal ridges, four rows of alveoli and a medium-sized shallow symmetrical opercular funnel with 17 radii, and an inner surface with opercular tubercles. Serpula vossae sp. n. from the Western Caribbean and Bahamas has a tube with 6–8 longitudinal ridges, and a large, deep symmetrical opercular funnel, with 21–33 radii, and a smooth inner surface. Serpula cf. vermicularis, recorded from the Gulf of Guinea (tropical eastern Atlantic), is distinguished from the nominal species in possessing fewer opercular radii (33–39) and the lack of a proximal rasp in the bayonet chaetae; tubes are missing. The distribution range is extended for the three known Spiraserpula species found in the collections, S. caribensis, S. karpatensis and S. ypsilon.

Opisthobranchs from the western Indian Ocean, with descriptions of two new species and ten new records (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
Seventy species of opisthobranchs are described in this work based on collections from the Persian Gulf, Socotra, Kenya, Zanzibar, Madagascar, La Réunion, Mauritius, the Seychelles, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka. Ten species are newly recorded from the western Indian Ocean and four species are recorded in the scientific literature for the first time since their original descriptions. Two species are described as new: Cyerce bourbonica sp. n. from La Réand Doriopsilla nigrocera sp. n. from the Persian Gulf coast of Saudi Arabia. Chromodoris cavae is removed from its synonymy with C. tennentana and redescribed from specimens from La Réunion, while several new synonyms are proposed for some commonly occurring species. Risbecia bullockii is recorded for the second time from the Indian Ocean and assigned to its correct genus.
["Nudibranchs"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Eriophyoid mites from Qinghai Province, northwestern China with descriptions of nine new species (Acari, Eriophyoidea)
Eriophyoid mites from Qinghai Province, northwestern China were studied herein. Up to now, only six species have been reported from Qinghai Province. In field surveys, 17 eriophyoid mite species were collected, among which nine species were found new to science. The new species and their host plants are listed as follows: Acaphyllisa tuberculumae sp. n. on Populus sp. (Salicaceae); Proiectus xiningensis sp. n. on Pinus sp. (Pinaceae); Phyllocoptes beishaniensis sp. n. on Spiraea mongolica Maxim. (Rosaceae); Tetra pruniana sp. n. on Prunus tomentosa Thunb. (Rosaceae) Rupr. (Berberidaceae); Tetra pyriana sp. n. on Pyrus calleryana Decne. (Rosaceae); Tetra simonia sp. n. on Populus simonii Carr. (Salicaceae); Diptacus berberinus sp. n. on Berberis amurensis Rupr. (Berberidaceae); Diptacus mengdaensis sp. n. on Lonicera elisae Franch. (Caprifoliaceae); Rhyncaphytoptus spinus sp. n. on Lonicera rupicola Hook. f. et Thoms. (Caprifoliaceae). Aculops ulmi Hong & Xue, 2005 was re-described.
["Eriophyoid mites"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Study of Mite Species"]

A new golden frog species of the genus Diasporus (Amphibia, Eleutherodactylidae) from the
Cordillera Central, western Panama
We describe the frog species Diasporus citrinobapheus sp. n. from the Cordillera Central of western Panama. The new species differs from all other species in its genus in coloration, disk cover and disk pad shape, skin texture, advertisement call, and size. It is most similar to D. tigrillo, from which it differs in dorsal skin texture, relative tibia length, number of vomerine teeth, ventral coloration, dorsal markings, and relative tympanum size, and to D. gularis, from which it can be distinguished by the lack of membranes between the toes, adult size, posterior thigh coloration, and position of the choanae. We provide data on morphology, vocalization, and distribution of the new species, as well as brief information on its natural history.

Ethanol fuel improves arthropod capture in pitfall traps and preserves DNA
We tested the value of ethanol fuel as a killing solution in terms of sampling efficiency (species richness and accumulated abundance) and DNA preservation of Ensifera ground-dwelling specimens. Sampling efficiency was evaluated comparing abundance and species richness of pitfall sampling using 100% ethanol fuel, with two alternative killing solutions. We evaluated the DNA preservation efficiency of the killing solutions and of alternative storage solutions. Ethanol fuel was the most efficient killing solution, and allowed successful DNA preservation. This solution is cheaper than other preserving liquids, and is easily acquired near field study sites since it is available at every fuel station in Brazil and at an increasing number of fuel stations in the U.S. We recommend the use of ethanol fuel as a killing and storage solution, because it is a cheap and efficient alternative for large-scale arthropod sampling, both logistically and for DNA preservation. For open habitat sampling with high day temperatures, we recommend doubling the solution volume to cope with high evaporation, increasing its efficacy over two days.
["Killing solutions"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Three new species of Sesioctonus Viereck (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Agathidinae) from Peru
Three new species of Sesioctonus (Braconidae: Agathidinae) are described and illustrated, i.e., Sesioctonus huggerti, S.wayquecha, and S. bina. Two new Peruvian species records for Sesioctonus are reported: S. longinoi and S. diazi. A revised key to all known species of Sesioctonus is presented.

The velvet spiders: an atlas of the Eresidae (Arachnida, Araneae)
The family Eresidae C. L. Koch, 1850 is reviewed at the genus level. The family comprises nine genera including one new genus. They are: Adonea Simon, 1873, Dorceus C. L. Koch, 1846, Dresserus Simon, 1876, Eresus Walckenaer, 1805, Gandanameno Lehtinen, 1967, Loureedia gen. n., Paradonea Lawrence, 1968, Seothyra Purcell, 1903, and Stegodyphus Simon, 1873. A key to all genera and major lineages is provided along with corresponding diagnoses, as well as descriptions of selected species. These are documented with collections of photographs, scanning electron micrographs, and illustrations. A new phylogeny of Eresidae based on molecular sequence data expands on a previously published analysis. A species of the genus Paradonea Lawrence, 1968 is sequenced and placed phylogenetically for the first time. New sequences from twenty Gandanameno Lehtinen, 1967 specimens were added to investigate species limits within the genus. The genus Loureedia gen. n. is proposed to accommodate Eresus annulipes Lucas, 1857. Two species, Eresus semicanus Simon, 1908 and Eresus jerbae El-Hennawy, 2005, are synonymized with Loureedia annulipes comb. n. One new species, Paradonea presleyi sp. n. is described. Eresus algericus El-Hennawy, 2004 is transferred to Adonea Simon, 1873. The female of Dorceus fastuosus C. L. Koch, 1846 is described for the first time. The first figures depicting Paradonea splendens (Lawrence, 1936) are presented.
["ladybird spiders"]

A new species of Oileus Kaup (Coleoptera, Passalidae) from Guatemala, with a key to the species of the genus
Oileus gasparilomi sp. n. is described from nine specimens from the mountains of Quiché in Guatemala, from cloud forest at 1795 m elevation. This represents the second species of the genus for Guatemala, differing from the closely related Mexican species Oileus rimator (Truqui) ina straight anterior clypeal border, the postocular sulcus divided by a keel and the pronotum almost straight (not clearly bilobed). A key to the species of Oileus is given.
["Passalidae"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Perlesta ephelida, a new Nearctic stonefly species (Plecoptera, Perlidae)
A new Nearctic species of Perlidae (Insecta, Plecoptera), Perlesta ephelida sp. n., is described from the male, female, and egg stages. This species has been previously reported as, or confused with, P. shubuta Stark from several central and eastern U.S. states. Perlesta ephelida is distinctive from P. shubuta and other regional Nearctic congeners mainly according to male genitalic and egg characteristics. Perlesta ephelida is a widely-distributed eastern Nearctic species, whereas P. shubuta appears to be restricted to a narrow latitudinal belt in the Gulf Coast region from Louisiana east conservatively to the Florida panhandle. The egg of P. shubuta is depicted with scanning electron microscopy for the first time.
["Perlesta"]

Lithobius (Monotarsobius) monoforaminis sp. n., a new species of lithobiid centipede from central China (Chilopoda, Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
The present paper describes a new species Lithobius (Monotarsobius) monoforaminis sp. n. (Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae) recently discovered from Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces, Central China. Morphologically it resembles L. (M.) minimus Farzalieva, 2006 from Eastern Kazakhstan, but could be well distinguished from the latteronly one pore on the coxae of legs 12–15 and different plectrotaxy, and by lacking a wart on the male tibia 15. A key to the Chinese Lithobius (Monotarsobius) species is presented.
["Lithobiidae"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Review of the Southeast Asian species of the Aenictus javanus and Aenictus philippinensis species groups (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Aenictinae)
The Southeast Asian species of the Aenictus javanus and Aenictus philippinensis groups are revised. Six species (four named and two new species) of the Aenictus javanus group occurring in this area are: A. doydeei Jaitrong & Yamane, 2011, A. duengkaei Jaitrong & Yamane, sp. n., A. javanus Emery, 1896, A. longinodus Jaitrong & Yamane, sp. n., A. nishimurai Terayama & Kubota, 1993, and A. piercei Wheeler & Chapman, 1930. Four species (three named and one new species) are recognized in the Aenictus philippinensis group: A. pangantihoni Zettel & Sorger, 2010, A. philippinensis Chapman, 1963, A. punctatus Jaitrong & Yamane, sp. n., and A. rabori Chapman, 1963. A. piercei is removed from the members of the A. piercei group sensu Jaitrong and Yamane (2011) and transferred to the A. javanus group. Lectotypes and paralectotypes are designated for A. piercei and A. rabori. Size variation occurs among individuals from single colonies of the A. javanus group, while the workers in the A. philippinensis group are clearly monomorphic.
["Aenictus javanus group"]

Two new species of the interstitial genus Parvocythere (Crustacea, Ostracoda, Cytheroidea) from Japan: an example of morphological variation
Two new species of the interstitial ostracod genus Parvocythere, P. gottwaldi sp. n. and P. gracilis sp. n., are herein described. Although these two new species are clearly distinguishable by certain morphological differences in elements of the male copulatory organ, and the carapace, they share the following simplified characters of the appendages and male copulatory organ: antennular fourth podomere with no suture; reduced claws on the distal end of antenna; and asymmetric male copulatory organ. The morphological differences among known and new Parvocythere species suggest that the species of this genus can be classified into two groups by the presence/absence of the suture on the antennular fourth podomere. The “Group S” is characterised by the presence of the antennular suture, and all species of this group have a two-clawed antenna and symmetric male copulatory organ, characters which are generally seen in cytheroid ostracods. The species belonging to “Group N” are characterised by the absence of the suture, regarded as a pedomorphic character, show the following characters: two clawed or one clawed antenna, and symmetric or asymmetric male copulatory organ. The morphological variation within Group N includes reductive characters regarded as an adaptation to the narrow spaces of the interstitial environment of a sandy beach. These intrageneric morphological variations of the exclusively interstitial genus Parvocythere suggest the possibilities that Group N might be derived from Group S, and that some adaptive characters to an interstitial environment could have developed after the colonisation of these environments.
["Interstitial animal"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Amphipoda (Crustacea) from Palau, Micronesia: Families Ampeliscidae, Ampithoidae, Aoridae, Colomastigidae and Cyproideidae
12 species of amphipod in 5 families, collected from shallow reefs in Palau by S. DeGrave during 2002, are reported here. Of these, five species are new to science and Microdeutopus tridens Schellenberg (1938) is redescribed and transferred to the genus Bemlos Shoemaker (1925). The collection included several additional species in the genera Amphilochus Bate, 1862, Ampithoe Leach (1814), Bemlos, Byblis Boeck (1871), Colomastix Grube (1861) and Notopoma Lowry & Berents (1996), that were either incomplete or juvenile and could therefore not adequately be described. In addition, two new species of Plumithoe Barnard & Karaman (1991) are erected from the literature. Other families collected in Palau will be considered in later contributions.

Description and DNA barcoding of Tipula (Pterelachisus) recondita sp. n. from the Palaearctic region (Diptera, Tipulidae)
Tipula (Pterelachisus) recondita Pilipenko & Salmela, sp. n. is described. The new species is collected from two localities: Finland, Kittilä (North boreal ecoregion) and Russia, Primorski kray (Zone of temperate broadleaf and mixed forests). Although variation in the structure of male hypopygium between the Finnish and Russian populations is observed, DNA barcode sequences differ only by three nucleotides (0.2 % K2P distance), supporting presence of one widespread species. K2P minimum distances between the new species and 17 other species of the subgenus range from 5.3 to 15.8 % (mean 8.8 %). The new species is forest-dwelling, known from an old-growth herb-rich forest (Finland) and Quercus mongolica forest (Russia). The new species is perhaps closest to T. (P.) imitator Alexander and in lesser extent to T. (P.) pauli Mannheims; the inner gonostylus of both species are illustrated.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

Review of Chinese Oligaphorurini (Collembola, Onychiuridae) with descriptions of two new Palaearctic species
A checklist of Chinese Oligaphorurini is given. Two new Chinese species, Micraphorura changbaiensis sp. n. and Oligaphorura pseudomontana sp. n., are described from Changbai Mountain Range. M. changbaiensis sp. n. has the same dorsal pseudocelli formula and number of papillae in Ant. III sensory organ as M. uralica, but they can be easily distinguished by number of chaetae in Ant. III sensory organ, ventral pseudocelli formula, ventral parapseudocelli formula, number of pseudocelli on subcoxa 1 of legs I–III, dorsal axial chaeta on Abd. V and number of chaetae on tibiotarsi. O. pseudomontana sp. n. is very similar to the species O. montanaan increased number of pseudocelli on body dorsally, well marked base of antenna with 1 pseudocellus and 3 pseudocelli outside, subcoxa 1 of legs I–III with 1 pseudocellus each, dorsally S-chaetae formula as 11/011/22211 from head to Abd. V, S-microchaeta present on Th. II–III, claw without inner teeth and with 1+1 lateral teeth, and unguiculus with basal lamella; but they can be separated easily by the number of pseudocelli on Abd. V and VI terga, parapseudocelli on the body, number of chaetae on Th. I tergum, and number of chaetae on tibiotarsi. A key to Chinese species of Oligaphorurini is provided in the present paper.
["Collembola"]

Australian Assassins, Part II: A review of the new assassin spider genus Zephyrarchaea (Araneae, Archaeidae) from southern Australia
The Assassin Spiders of the family Archaeidae from southern Australia are revised, with a new genus (Zephyrarchaea gen. n.) and nine new species described from temperate, mesic habitats in southern Victoria, South Australia and south-western Western Australia: Z. austini sp. n., Z. barrettae sp. n., Z. grayi sp. n., Z. janineae sp. n., Z. marae sp. n., Z. marki sp. n., Z. melindae sp. n., Z. porchi sp. n. and Z. vichickmani sp. n. Specimens of the type species, Z. mainae (Platnick, 1991) comb. n., are redescribed from the Albany region of Western Australia, along with the holotype female of Z. robinsi (Harvey, 2002) comb. n. from the Stirling Range National Park. The previously described species Archaea hickmani Butler, 1929 from Victoria is here recognised as a nomen dubium. A key to species and multi-locus molecular phylogeny complement the species-level taxonomy, with maps, habitat photos, natural history information and conservation assessments provided for all species.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Acanthodasys paurocactus sp. n., a new species of Thaumastodermatidae (Gastrotricha, Macrodasyida) with multiple scale types from Capron Shoal, Florida
A new species of Acanthodasys (Gastrotricha, Macrodasyida, Thaumastodermatidae) is described from sublittoral sediments off the Atlantic coast of Florida. Acanthodasys paurocactus sp. n. is a relatively small species (to 450 mm long) with a strap-shaped outline, a series of anterior, lateral, and ventrolateral adhesive tubes, paired caudal pedicles with posterior adhesive tubes, and a morphologically diverse cuticle. The cuticle contains both spined and unspined scales. Unspined scales are present in two general shapes: lanceolate and eye shaped, with some transitional shapes. All scales have a thickened rim and depressed central region; some scales of both shapes bear either one or more central bumps, a parallel ridge, or a perpendicular ridge that gives the appearance of a cross-shaped pattern under transmitted light. Spined scales are somewhat quadrangular in shape and bear uniancres to 15 mm long with a cross-shaped sectional profile. The new species is now one of five described species to possess both spined and spineless scales, and only one of two species to possess two types of spineless scales (the second species is an incompletely described specimen from Norway).
["Meiofauna"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Morphological and molecular evidence for cryptic species of springsnails [genus Pseudamnicola (Corrosella) (Mollusca, Caenogastropoda, Hydrobiidae)]
Several Pseudamnicola (Corrosella) populations of the central and eastern Iberian Peninsula have been ascribed to P. (C.) astieri (Dupuy, 1851), though recent evidence demonstrates the species could be endemic to the departments of Var and Alpes-Maritimes in France. Through the identification of cryptic species using a combined morphological and phylogenetic approach, this paper provides a detailed morphological description of P. (C.) astieri, clarifying its taxonomic boundaries and confirming it as a French endemic. In parallel, by comparing Pseudamnicola (Corrosella) populations from the provinces of Castellón and Valencia in Eastern Spain, it was observed that rather than P. (C.) astieri they represented a new species here described as P. (C.) hauffei sp. n. Among other characters, the two species show marked differences in shell shape, male and female genital systems, radular formula and concentration of the nervous system. P. (C.) hauffei sp. n. was also compared morphologically to another two Pseudamnicola (Corrosella) species living in nearby areas [P. (C.) hinzi Boeters, 1986 and P. (C.) navasiana (Fagot, 1907)], molecularly to P. (C.) falkneri (Boeters, 1970), the type species of the subgenus, and to the rest of the Pseudamnicola (Corrosella) species described so far. Morphological differentiation between the species is supported by a genetic divergence of 7.4% inferred from a partial sequence (658 bp) of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). On the basis of an average 8% (5.39 to 11.15%) divergence estimated for the COI gene in other P. (Corrosella) species reported in GenBank, the existence of two specific entities is here proposed, which will have impact on conservation policies both in France and in Spain.
["Hydrobiidae"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

New species of Prosopodesmus Silvestri, 1910 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Haplodesmidae) from Queensland, Australia
Prosopodesmus crater sp. n., P. kirrama sp. n. and P. monteithi sp. n. are described from the Wet Tropics of north Queensland. The hothouse species P. panporus Blower & Rundle, 1980 is recorded from rainforest on Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula, where it is likely to be native.

Two new spider species of the genus Chrysso O. P.-Cambridge, 1882 (Araneae, Theridiidae) in Hainan Island, China
Two new spider species of the genus Chrysso O. P.-Cambridge, 1882 are reported from Hainan Island, China, Chrysso bifurca sp. n. (male, female) and C. bicuspidata sp. n. (male, female). C. bimaculata Yoshida, 1998 is recorded from China for the first time.
["Chrysso"]

Revision of Ilyphagus Chamberlin, 1919 (Polychaeta, Flabelligeridae)
Ilyphagus Chamberlin, 1919 includes abyssal, fragile benthic species. Most species have large cephalic cages but chaetae are brittle and easily lost which may explain why the original definition included species with a cephalic cage or without it. The type species, I. bythincola Chamberlin, 1919, together with another species (I. pluto Chamberlin, 1919) were described as lacking a cephalic cage whereas a third species (I. ascendens Chamberlin, 1919) was described with one. To clarify this situation, all available type and non-type materials were studied. Ilyphagus is redefined to include species with digitiform bodies, abundant filiform papillae and a thin body wall; their neurochaetae are thick, anchylosed aristate spines, and all species have a cephalic cage (in the type species the presence of a cage is inferred from the remaining chaetal scars). Ilyphagus pluto, which also lacks a a cephalic cage is determined here to be a holothurian). The redefined genus contains I. bythincola (incl. I. ascendens), I. coronatus Monro, 1939, I. hirsutus Monro, 1937, and I. wyvillei (McIntosh, 1885).

Review of the Eustrophinae (Coleoptera, Tetratomidae) of America north of Mexico
The Nearctic fauna (north of Mexico) of Eustrophinae is reviewed, and consists of the following five genera and 12 species: Pseudoholostrophus (Pseudoholostrophus) impressicollis (LeConte), P. (Holostrophinus) discolor (Horn), Holostrophus bifasciatus (Say), Eustrophus tomentosus Say, Eustrophopsis confinis (LeConte), E. bicolor (Fabricius), E. brunneimarginatus (Dury), E. indistinctus (LeConte), E. arizonensis (Horn), E. ornatus (Van Dyke), E. crowdyi sp. n., and Synstrophus repandus (Horn). A lectotype is designated for Eustrophus brunneimarginatus Dury. A key is given to separate genera and species, supplemented with illustrations of relevant features, including aedeagi of all Nearctic species of Eustrophopsis. Detailed distribution (including Mexican records) and natural history data are provided.
["Tetratomidae"]

Cheiriphotis trifurcata, new species (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Corophiidae, Protomedeiinae) from the Seagrass Bed of the Lower Gulf of Thailand
A new species of corophiid Amphipoda, Cheiriphotis trifurcata, collected from the seagrass bed of the Lower Gulf of Thailand, is described. Cheiriphotis trifurcata is characterized by its trifurcated tip of the modified setae on the outer ramus in male pleopod 3. In this paper, the new species is fully described and compared with related species and a complete key of the 16 valid species in the genus Cheiriphotis is given.

A new Pseudachorutes (Collembola, Neanuridae, Pseudachorutinae) from Nicaragua
A new species of Pseudachorutes is described and illustrated from Nicaragua. Pseudachorutes nica sp. n. is very easy to distinguish from other members of this genus from Central America, because its chaetotaxy consists of macro and microsetae and a postantennal organ with multiple vesicles (close to 20).
["Neanuridae"]

Three species of Amphicorina (Annelida, Sabellida, Sabellidae) from Japan, with descriptions of two new species
We describe two new species and redescribe one in the polychaete genus Amphicorina Claparède, 1864 (Sabellidae) from Hokkaido, Japan. Amphicorina ascidicola sp. n. differs from its 38 congeners chiefly in the reduction of the collar, but also inthree pairs of radioles, one pair of ventral radiolar appendages, a bifurcate ventral lobe on the anterior peristomial ring, six abdominal chaetigers, and a large anterior tooth on the abdominal uncini. Amphicorina ezoensis sp. n. has a crenulated collar, three pairs of radioles, and more than eight (12) abdominal chaetigers; A. ezoensis sp. n. shares these character states with A. anneae (Rouse, 1994), A. eimeri (Langerhans, 1880), and A. persinosa (Ben-Eliahu, 1975), but differs from them intwo pairs of ventral radiolar appendages and a non-oblique collar. Amphicorina mobilis (Rouse, 1990) was previously known only from the type locality (New South Wales, Australia), but we identify our Japanese material as conspecific on the basis of morphological and molecular similarity.

First record of the leafhopper genus Sweta Viraktamath & Dietrich (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae,Typhlocybinae) from China, with description of one new species feeding on bamboo
Sweta bambusana sp. n. (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae: Dikraneurini), a new bamboo-feeding species, is described and illustrated from Guizhou and Guangdong of China. This represents the first record of the genus Sweta Viraktamath & Dietrich from China and the second known species of the genus. The new taxon extends the range of the genus Sweta, previously known only from northeast India and Thailand, considerably eastwards. A key for separation of the species of Sweta is given.
["Cicadomorpha"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Pathogenic Bacteria Studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Two new species of Pseudohadena Alphéraky, 1889 from Kazakhstan (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Xyleninae)
Two new species of Pseudohadena, P. anatine sp. n. and P. gorbunovi sp. n. (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) are described from Ustyurt, Kazakhstan. Illustrations of adults and the genitalia of both sexes are provided. Microstructures of vesicae are described and illustrated. A diagnostic comparison is made with P. evanida psammoxantha Ronkay, Varga & Fábián, 1995, P. magnitudinis Hacker & Ebert, 2002 and P. pseudamoena (Boursin, 1943).

A new Synersaga species from Cambodia (Lepidoptera, Lecithoceridae), with a world catalogue of the genus
A new species of the genus Synersaga Gozmány, S. mondulkiriensis sp. n., is described from Cambodia. The genus is diagnosed, and a global catalogue for the genus is provided.

New Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) records with new collection data from New Brunswick and an addition to the fauna of Quebec: Staphylininae
Forty-four species of Staphylininae are newly reported from New Brunswick, bringing the total number of species known from the province to 126. Quedius criddlei (Casey) is reported for the first time from Quebec. Bisnius cephalotes (Gravenhorst) is removed from the faunal list of New Brunswick due to a lack of supporting voucher specimens. Additional locality data are presented for seven species either recently recorded from the province or with few previous records and little habitat data. We provide the first documented records of Atrecus americanus (Casey), Quedius erythrogaster Mannerheim, Quedius labradorensis labradorensis Smetana, Quedius plagiatus (Mannerheim), and Neobisnius terminalis (LeConte) from New Brunswick. Collection and habitat data are presented and discussed for all species.

New Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) records with new collection data from New Brunswick, Canada: Paederinae
We report 17 species of Paederinae new for New Brunswick, Canada. Ten of these species, Lathrobium othioides LeConte, Lathrobium amplipenne Casey, Lathrobium armatum Say, Lathrobium confusum LeConte, Lathrobium debile LeConte, Achenomorphus corticinus (Gravenhorst), Rugilus rufipes Germar, Homaeotarsus bicolor (Gravenhorst), Homaeotharsus cribratus (LeConte), and Homaeotarsus pallipes (Gravenhorst) are newly recorded for the Maritime provinces. This brings the total number of Paederinae recorded from New Brunswick to 36 species. Additional records are presented for the recently reported Lathrobium simile LeConte and Lathrobium washingtoni Casey. Collection and habitat data are presented for all species.
["Paederinae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

New Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) records with new collection data from New Brunswick, Canada: Oxyporinae
Five species of Oxyporinae: Oxyporus occipitalis Fauvel, Oxyporus quinquemaculatus LeConte, Oxyporus. major Gravenhorst, Oxyporus rufipennis LeConte, and Oxyporus stygicus Say, are newly recorded from New Brunswick, bringing the number of Oxyporinae known from the province to eight. The first documented records from New Brunswick are provided for Oxyporus kiteleyi reported by Majka et al. (2011). Oxyporus occipitalis and O. major are newly reported for the Maritime provinces of Canada. Collection and habitat data are presented for all these species.

New Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) records with new collection data from New Brunswick, Canada: Scaphidiinae, Piestinae, Osorinae, and Oxytelinae
Nine species of Scaphidiinae are newly reported for New Brunswick, Canada, bringing the total number of species known from the province to 12. Scaphium castanipes Kirby, Baeocera inexspectata Löbl and Stephen, Baeocera securiforma (Cornell), Scaphisoma repandum Casey, and Toxidium gammaroides LeConte are reported for the first time from the Maritime provinces. Siagonum punctatum LeConte and Siagonum stacesmithi Hatch, and the subfamily Piestinae are reported for the first time from New Brunswick. The subfamily Osoriinae is reported for the first time from New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces based on the collection of three species: Clavilispinus prolixus (LeConte), Thoracophorus costalis (Erichson), and a Lispinodes species. The Lispinodes species is also newly recorded for Canada. Six species of Oxytelinae are newly recorded from New Brunswick, bringing the total number of species of this subfamily known to the province to 20. Apocellus sphaericollis (Say) and Platystethus americanus Erichson are new to the Maritime provinces. Additional locality and bionomic data are presented for Mitosynum vockerothi Campbell, and the male genitalia are illustrated for the first time. Collection and bionomic data are presented for all included species.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

New species and distributional records of Aleocharinae (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) from Ontario, Canada, with a checklist of recorded species
The Aleocharinae (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) of Ontario were reviewed in the context of recently studied material, primarily from insect surveys conducted by the University of Guelph Insect Collection (Ontario, Canada). Aleochara daviesi Klimaszewski & Brunke sp. n., Agaricomorpha websteri Klimaszewski & Brunke sp. n., Atheta (Microdota) alesi Klimaszewski & Brunke sp. n., Dinaraea backusensis Klimaszewski & Brunke sp. n., and Strigota obscurata Klimaszewski & Brunke sp. n. are described as new to science. We also report 47 new Ontario records and 24 new Canadian records. Callicerus rigidicornis (Erichson) and Alevonota gracilenta (Erichson) are newly reported from North America as adventive species. A checklist, with Canadian distributions by province, of the 224 species of Aleocharinae known from Ontario is given. The following species are placed in subjective synonymy with Dexiogyia angustiventris (Casey): (De. asperata (Casey) syn. n., De. abscissa (Casey) syn. n., De. tenuicauda (Casey) syn. n., De. intenta (Casey) syn. n., De. alticola (Casey) syn. n.). The following species are placed in subjective synonymy with Acrotona subpygmaea (Bernhauer): (Ac. avia (Casey) syn. n., Ac. puritana (Casey) syn. n.). Lectotypes are designated for Thiasophila angustiventris Casey, Th. asperata Casey, Ischnoglossa intenta Casey, Oxypoda rubescans Casey, Chilopora americana Casey, Chilopora fuliginosa Casey, Coprothassa smithi Casey, Atheta subpygmaea Bernhauer, Colpodota puritana Casey, Strigota seducens Casey, Trichiusa compacta Casey, Trichiusa hirsuta Casey and Trichiusa robustula Casey.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

New Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) records with new collection data from New Brunswick, and an addition to the fauna of Quebec, Canada: Aleocharinae
Thirty-eight species of Aleocharinae are newly reported from New Brunswick, bringing the total number of species known from the province to 216. Thirty-one of these species are newly recorded for the Maritime provinces, and four of them, Phloeopora oregona Casey, Gyrophaena michigana Seevers, Gyrophaena wisconsinica Seevers, and Tomoglossa decora (Casey), are newly recorded for Canada. Tomoglossa constitutes a new generic record for Canada. Collection and habitat data for all these species are presented and discussed. Color habitus, median lobe of the aedeagus, and male tergite and sternite 8 images are presented for the first time for P. oregona, and references to illustrations are provided for all other species included in this paper. A color habitus image is presented for T. decora.

New Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) records with new collection data from New Brunswick and eastern Canada: Tachyporinae
Twenty-three species of Tachyporinae are newly recorded from New Brunswick. This brings the total number of Tachyporinae known from the province to 70. Lordithon campbelli Schülke is newly recorded for Canada and we provide the first documented records of Tachinus addendus Horn and Tachinus frigidus Erichson for New Brunswick. Collection and habitat data are presented and discussed for each species. A list of Tachyporinae species currently known from the province of New Brunswick is presented.

New Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) records with new collection data from New Brunswick, Canada: Pselaphinae
Twenty species of Pselaphinae are newly recorded from New Brunswick, Canada. This brings the total number of species known from the province to 36. Thirteen of these species are newly recorded for the Maritime provinces of Canada. Dalmosella tenuis Casey and Brachygluta luniger (LeConte) are newly recorded for Canada. Collection and habitat data are presented for these species.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

New Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) records with new collection data from New Brunswick, Canada: Omaliinae, Micropeplinae, Phloeocharinae, Olisthaerinae, and Habrocerinae
Eleven species of Omaliinae are newly recorded from New Brunswick, bringing the total number of species known from the province to 32 described species. Supporting data are presented for the New Brunswick record of Geodromicus strictus (Fauvel) reported by Majka et al. (2011). Micropeplus browni Campbell, Micropeplus laticollis Mäklin (Micropeplinae), Charyhyphus picipennis (LeConte) (Phloeocharinae), Olisthaerus substriatus (Paykull) (Olisthaerinae), Habrocerus capillaricornis (Gravenhorst), Habrocerus magnus LeConte, and Habrocerus schwarzi Horn (Habrocerinae) are also newly recorded for New Brunswick. These are the first records of the latter four subfamilies from New Brunswick. Collection and bionomic data are presented for each species and discussed.

A new species of Bolitoglossa (Amphibia, Caudata) from the Sierra de Juárez, Oaxaca, Mexico
We describe a new species of Bolitoglossa (Nanotriton) from the Sierra de Juárez and Sierra Mixe of Oaxaca, Mexico. Bolitoglossa chinanteca sp. n. is distinguished from the three other species in the subgenus Nanotriton by its more robust body, bysubstantial numbers of maxillary teeth and differences in relative head width, foot width, and limb length. The new species occurs in sympatry with Bolitoglossa (Nanotriton) rufescens at the type locality. The description of another species of salamander from the Sierra de Juárez is noteworthy, given the already high plethodontid salamander species richness of the region.
["Caudata"]

A new Chlerogelloides from northeastern Brazil and French Guiana, with a key to the species (Hymenoptera, Halictidae)
A third species of the rare augochlorine bee genus Chlerogelloides Engel et al. (Halictinae, Augochlorini) is described and figured. Chlerogelloides nexosa sp. n. is most similar to the type species, C. femoralis Engel et al., in that both have modified midlegs in the males. The former, however, can be distinguished on the basis of its terminalia, which in some respects more closely resembles those of C. simplex Engel and Brooks. Brief comments on the secondary features of males and relationships of the genus are provided. A key to the species of the genus is provided and floral records of Cordia nodosa Lam. (Boraginaceae) and Gonzalagunia dicocca Cham. & Schltdl. (Rubiaceae) are noted.

New species and records of Hydroptilidae (Trichoptera) from Venezuela
Eight new species of Hydroptilidae (Trichoptera) from Venezuela are described: Acostatrichia digitata sp. n., Hydroptila cressae sp. n., Metrichia botrychion sp. n., Ochrotrichia spira sp. n., Oxyethira bettyae sp. n., Oxyethira quiramae sp. n., Oxyethira redunca sp. n., and Rhyacopsyche shorti sp. n. New country records for Venezuela of 2 additional species, Neotrichia feolai Santos & Nessimian, 2009 and Oxyethira picita Harris & Davenport, 1999, are also provided. Illustrations of male genitalia are provided with each description.
["Trichoptera"]

Three new species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from the Jiulongshan Natural Reserve, East China
Three new species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst from Jiulongshan Natural Reserve, Zhejiang, East China, L. jiulongshanense sp. n., L. sheni sp. n. and L. zhaotiexiongi sp. n. are described and illustrated. A key to the Lathrobium species from Zhejiang Province is provided.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Review of the species of Michotamia from China with a description of a new species (Diptera, Asilidae)
Three species of Michotamia are recorded from China. Of these M. aurata (Fabricius, 1794) was previously reported from Hainan and Taiwan. M. assamensis Joseph & Parui, 1995 is recorded from China and Laos for the first time, and M. yunnanensis sp. n., is described and figured. A key to the known species from China is provided. A new name, Michotamia subnigra, is given to Michotamia nigra Scarbrough & Hill, 2000, which is preoccupied by Michotamia nigra (Meijere, 1911).

A remarkable new genus of stiletto flies from Egypt, with a key to Palaearctic genera of Phycinae (Diptera, Therevidae)
An unusual new genus (Salwaea burgensis gen. n., sp. n.) of phycine stiletto flies is described from Egypt. A key to Palaearctic genera of Phycinae is presented.

New Neotropical species of Chimarra (Trichoptera, Philopotamidae)
Ten new Neotropical species of Chimarra are described in the subgenera Chimarra, Chimarrita, and Otarrha. New species in the subgenus Chimarra include, in the C. ortiziana group: C. calori sp. n. (southeastern Brazil) and C. onchyrhina sp. n. (Venezuela); in the C. picea group: C. inchoata sp. n. (Venezuela), C. nicehuh sp. n. (Venezuela), and C. sunima sp. n. (Colombia); and in the C. poolei group: C. cauca sp. n. (Colombia) and C. desirae sp. n. (Bolivia). New species in the subgenus Chimarrita include, in the C. simpliciforma group: C. curvipenis sp. n. (SE Brazil) and C. latiforceps sp. n. (SE Brazil). A single new species in the subgenus Otarrha is also described: C. soroa sp. n. (Cuba). Males and females for all of the new species are illustrated, except for C. desirae, for which female specimens were unavailable. Additionally, the female of C. (Chimarrita) camella, which was previously unknown, is illustrated.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

A review of the North American genus Epimartyria (Lepidoptera, Micropterigidae) with a discussion of the larval plastron
The indigenous North American micropterigid genus Epimartyria Walsingham,1898 is revised. Three species are recognized, including E. auricrinella Walsingham, 1898 which occurs widely over much of the northeastern United States and Canada, a new species, E. bimaculella Davis and Landry from northwestern United States and Canada, and E. pardella (Walsingham, 1880) from northern California to northern Oregon. The larva of E. auricrinella is described in detail, supplemented with illustrations of the external structure of the larval integument. The larval plastron is described and illustrated for Epimartyria, and this is compared with the plastrons of Neomicropteryx Issiki, 1931 and Micropterix Hübner, 1825. COI barcode sequences show that the three species are genetically distinct, congruent with morphological differences. Marked haplotype divergence within some E. auricrinella populations appears to be unrelated to morphology, geography or phenology.

Review of Dicrotendipes Kieffer from China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
The genus Dicrotendipes Kieffer from China, including 8 species, is reviewed. Two new species, D. nudus sp.n. and D. saetanumerosus sp.n. are described and the male imagines are illustrated; the record of D. fusconotatus (Kieffer) is the first for China. A key to the males of Dicrotendipes in China is given.

Description of Alpheus cedrici sp. n., a strikingly coloured snapping shrimp (Crustacea, Decapoda, Alpheidae) from Ascension Island, central Atlantic Ocean
Alpheus cedrici sp. n. is described based on two specimens collected under rocks while scuba diving off the coast of Ascension Island, central Atlantic Ocean. The new species belongs to the Alpheus macrocheles (Hailstone, 1835) species complex and appears to be most closely related to the eastern–central Atlantic A. macrocheles, the western Atlantic A. amblyonyx Chace, 1972, and the eastern Pacific A. bellimanus Lockington, 1877 and A. rectus Kim & Abele, 1988. However, it differs from all these species by a combination of morphological characters and by a diagnostic and striking colour pattern.
["Caridea"]

The genus Shirozuella Sasaji (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Shirozuellini) from the Chinese mainland
The genus Shirozuella Sasaji, 1967 from the Chinese mainland is reviewed. Eight species are recognized, including four new species: S. motuoensis sp. n., S. tibetina sp. n., S. unciforma sp. n., and S. guoyuei sp. n. Male genitalia of S. parenthesis Yu and S. quadrimacularis are described for the first time. All species are described and illustrated. A key and distribution map to the known species from the Chinese mainland are given.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

The caddisfly fauna (Insecta, Trichoptera) of the rivers of the Black Sea basin in Kosovo with distributional data for some rare species
Adult caddisflies were collected from 12 stations in the Black Sea basin in Kosovo using UV light traps. Sixty-five of the seventy-six species reported in this paper are first records for the Kosovo caddisfly fauna. The unexpected discovery of several species during this investigation: Agapetus delicatulus McLachlan, 1884, Psychomyia klapaleki Malicky, 1995, Tinodes janssensi Jacquemart, 1957, Hydropsyche emarginata Navas, 1923, Drusus botosaneanui Kumanski, 1968, Potamophylax rotundipennis (Brauer, 1857), Potamophylax schmidi Marinković-Gospodnetić, 1970, Ceraclea albimacula (Rambur, 1842), Helicopsyche bacescui Orghidan & Botosaneanu, 1953, Adicella filicornis (Pictet, 1834), Beraea maurus (Curtis, 1834) and Beraeamyia hrabei Mayer, 1937 illustrates that collections from poorly investigated areas in Europe will almost certainly revise the existing knowledge on the distribution of these and other species.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A new sexannulate species of Orobdella (Hirudinida, Arhynchobdellida, Orobdellidae) from Yakushima Island, Japan
A new sexannulate species of the genus Orobdella Oka, 1895, Orobdella mononoke sp. n., is described on the basis of five specimens collected from Yakushima Island, Japan. Orobdella mononoke sp. n. differs from other sexannulate Orobdella species in its possessing the following combination of characters: dorsal surface bicolor in life, I–XIII, XXVII and caudal sucker grayish purple, XIV–XXVI amber, male gonopore at XI c11/c12, female gonopore at XIII b2, 8 + 1/2 between gonopores, tubular but bulbous at junction with crop gastroporal duct, epididymides in XV–XIX, and atrial cornua ovate. Phylogenetic analyses using nuclear 18S rDNA and histone H3, and mitochondrial COI, tRNACys, tRNAMet, 12S rDNA, tRNAVal and 16S rDNA markers show that O. mononoke sp. n. is closely related to Orobdella esulcata Nakano, 2010 from Kyushu, Japan, and two species, Orobdella dolichopharynx Nakano, 2011 and Orobdella shimadae Nakano, 2011, from the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan.
["Hirudinida"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Sinocorophium hangangense sp. n. (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Corophiidae), a new species from Korea, with a key to the genus Sinocorophium
A new species of the corophiid gammaridean amphipod belonging to the genus Sinocorophium Bousfield and Hoover was collected from the lower reaches of the Han River in Gyeonggi-do, Korea. A relatively large body size and morphology of the uropods 1 and 3 are the major characteristics which serve to distinguish the new species from its congeners. The new species is fully illustrated and extensively compared with related species. A key to the species of Sinocorophium is also provided.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

First report of Melittobia australica Girault in Europe and new record of M. acasta (Walker) for Italy
Melittobia acasta and M. australica are newly recorded from Sicily, Italy, and the second species is reported in Europe for the first time. A short historical background about Melittobia parasitoid wasps, their hosts, and distribution, with emphasis in those two species is presented together with illustrations to facilitate their identification. Brief discussion about the presence and possible distribution of the species in Sicily is also included.
["Parasitoid wasp"]

Description of a new species of Sternocoelis from Morocco with proposal of the Sternocoelis marseulii species group (Coleoptera, Histeridae)
The Sternocoelis marseulii species group is proposed based on antennal and prosternal characters. Five species are included in the group: S. marseulii (Brisout de Barneville, 1866) (Spain), S. viaticus Lewis, 1892 (Algeria), S. vaucheri Lewis, 1896 (Morocco), S. berberus Lackner & Yélamos, 2001 (Morocco) and S. yelamosi sp. n. (Morocco). The external morphology of Sternocoelis yelamosi sp. n. is described and illustrated, the illustrations of genitalia of all species of the group (except for S. vaucheri) are provided and a key to the species of the group is given.

A new species of Fauveliopsidae (Annelida) from the North Sea
A new species of the genus Laubieriopsis Petersen, 2000 is described based on 28 specimens collected in the north-east part of the North Sea. It is characterized by fixed number of chaetigers (22), paired genital papillae, bidentate neurochaeta of chaetigers 1–4, the absence of acicular chaetae on chaetigers 5–21 and, on the last chaetiger, one acicular and three capillary chaetae enlarged and directed backward. The present study brings the number of known species of Laubieriopsis to five and the number of Northeast Atlantic species of this genus to two.

Two new freshwater fish species of the genus Telestes (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae) from karst poljes in Eastern Herzegovina and Dubrovnik littoral (Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia)
Two new species, Telestes dabar and T. miloradi, are described on the basis of morphological comparisons of isolated geographical populations of fishes identified earlier as T. metohiensis. A lectotype is designated for T. metohiensis, whose range is shown to include waters of Gatačko, Cerničko, and Nevesinjsko poljes in Eastern Herzegovina. Telestes dabar from Dabarsko Polje (Eastern Herzegovina) and T. miloradi from Konavosko Polje (south Croatia) share with T. metohiensis the following combination of characters that distinguish them from the rest of the genus Telestes: pharyngeal teeth in one row, usually 5–4; preoperculo-mandibular canal not communicating with the infraorbital canal; mouth subterminal, the tip of the mouth cleft on or below the level of the ventral margin of the eye; postcleithrum minute or absent; ventral portion of the trunk with a dark stripe on a pale background; and dorsal portion of trunk uniformly dark and bordered ventrally by a dark midlateral stripe. Telestes dabar and T. miloradi are distinguishable from T. metohiensis in usually8½ branched dorsal-fin rays (vs. usually 7½), 9 or 10 gill rakers (vs. 7–10, usually 8), and the dark stripe on the ventral portion of the trunk below the main pigmented area of the back narrow and usually not reaching posteriorly to the caudal peduncle (vs. dark stripe wide and extending posteriorly to the caudal peduncle). Telestes dabar is distinguished from T. miloradi byscales on most of the body situated close to one another and overlapping in a region behind the pectoral girdle and usually on the caudal peduncle (vs. overlapping scales on most of the body); the lateral line usually incomplete and interrupted, with 24–69, usually 54–65, total scales (vs. lateral line usually complete, with 55–67 total scales); scales above and below the lateral line slightly smaller than lateral-line scales (vs. of about equal size); head width 43–52% HL (vs. 48–58% HL); and lower jaw length 10–12% SL or 36–41% HL (vs. 8–10% SL or 33–38% HL). Telestes miloradi, a very local endemic species, is known only by historical samples. Telestes dabar is an abundant fish in Dabarsko Polje, but its range is critically restricted during the dry season by a few permanent sources. Nothing is known about its occurrence in underground karst waters.
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Taxonomic study of the genus Prorophora Ragonot, 1887 (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae, Phycitinae) in China, with description of a new species
The genus Prorophora Ragonot, 1887 is newly recorded for China. Of the three species treated here, Prorophora (Reisserempista) binacantha sp. n. is described as new; P. (Prorophora) albidogilvella Roesler, 1970 and P. (Reisserempista) mongolica Roesler, 1970 are diagnosed and newly recorded for China. Images of adults and illustrations of genital structures are provided, along with a key to the known species.

Immature stages and ecology of two species of the South African genus Stripsipher Gory & Percheron, 1833 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae, Trichiini)
Based on the study of newly accessible type material, Stripsipher drakensbergi Ricchiardi, 1998, is demoted to a junior synonym of S. jansoni Péringuey, 1908. The genus Stripsipher Gory & Percheron, 1833, thus, currently includes 12 species, but for none of these are larval stages and/or pupae currently known. The immature stages of S. orientalis Ricchiardi, 2008 and S. jansoni are described here for the first time and updated observations on distribution and ecology of both species are provided. Morphological affinities of Stripsipher with other Trichiini larvae are presented and the main diagnostic differences discussed. The larvae of both species are very similar to those of other representatives of the tribe Trichiini, with key differences found on the epipharynx. Based on the morphology of larvae and adults, it is suggested that Stripsipher is a member of the clade composed of Valgini, Trichiini and Cryptodontini.
["Trichiini"]

A new genus, two new species and a new record of subfamily Cecidophyinae (Acari, Eriophyidae) from China
A new genus and two new species belonging to subfamily Cecidophyinae, namely Kyllocarus reticulatus gen. n., sp. n. infesting Lithocarpus brevicaudatus (Skan) Hay. (Fagaceae) and Gammaphytoptus schimae sp. n. infesting Schima superba Gardn & Champ. (Theaceae) are described and illustrated. Both new species are vagrants on their respective host plants. Cecidophyes digephyrus Keifer, 1966 is newly recorded for China.
["Eriophyoidea"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Enterognathus (Copepoda, Cyclopoida, Enterognathidae) collected from the Seto Inland Sea, western Japan
A new species of the endoparasitic copepod Enterognathus (Cyclopoida, Enterognathidae) is described from a crinoid host in the Seto Inland Sea, western Japan. This is a third species of the genus and its first occurrence in the Pacific Ocean. The new species is distinguished from two previously known congeners by the morphology of the body somites, caudal rami, antennae and legs. Crinoid parasites belonging to Enterognathus and the closely related genus Parenterognathus have a broad distribution from the northeastern Atlantic through the Red Sea to the West Pacific.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Anthribidae, Brentidae, Dryophthoridae, Brachyceridae, and Curculionidae, with additions to the fauna of Quebec, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island
We report 63 species of Curculionoidea that are new to New Brunswick (three species of Anthribidae, four species of Brentidae, three species of Dryophthoridae, three species of Brachyceridae, 50 species of Curculionidae). Among these are 27 species (two Anthribidae, two Brenthidae, one Brachyceridae, 22 Curculionidae) that are also newly recorded for the Maritime provinces, and one species, Plesiobaris disjuncta Casey (Curculionidae) that is newly recorded for Canada from New Brunswick and Quebec. Bagous planatus LeConte is reinstated to the faunal list of New Brunswick. Two species of Curculionidae are newly recorded from Nova Scotia and the Maritime provinces, and two others are reported for the first time for Prince Edward Island.
["Anthribidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Megalopodidae and Chrysomelidae
Zeugophora varians Crotch and the family Megalopodidae are newly recorded for New Brunswick, Canada. Twenty-eight species of Chrysomelidae are newly recorded for New Brunswick, including Acalymma gouldi Barber, Altica knabii Blatchley, Altica rosae Woods, Altica woodsi Isely, Bassareus mammifer (Newman), Chrysolina marginata (Linnaeus), Chrysomela laurentia Brown, Crepidodera violacea Melsheimer, Cryptocephalus venustus Fabricius, Neohaemonia melsheimeri (Lacordaire), N. nigricornis (Kirby), Pachybrachis bivittatus (Say), Pachybrachis m-nigrum (Melsheimer), Phyllobrotica limbata (Fabricius), Psylliodes affinis (Paykull), Odontota dorsalis (Thunberg), Ophraella communa (LeSage), Ophraella cribrata (LeConte), Ophraella notata (Fabricius), Systena hudsonias (Forster), Tricholochmaea ribicola (Brown), and Tricholochmaea rufosanguinea (Say), which are also newly recorded for the Maritime provinces. Collection data, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for all these species.
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Cerambycidae
Five species of Cerambycidae, Acmaeops discoideus (Haldeman), Anelaphus villosus (Fabricius), Phymatodes species (CNC sp. n. #1), Sarosesthes fulminans (Fabricius), and Urgleptus signatus (LeConte) are newly recorded for New Brunswick, Canada. All but A. villosus are new to the Maritime provinces. Phymatodes testaceus (Linnaeus) is removed from the faunal list of the province as a result of mislabeled specimens, records of Phymatodes maculicollis LeConte are presented confirming the presence of this species in New Brunswick, and the first recent records of Neospondylis upiformis (Mannerheim) are presented. Additional records are given for the recently recorded Phymatodes aereus (Newman), indicating a wider distribution in the province. Collection data, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for each species.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Stenotrachelidae, Oedemeridae, Meloidae, Myceteridae, Boridae, Pythidae, Pyrochroidae, Anthicidae, and Aderidae
We report 19 new species records for the faunal list of Coleoptera in New Brunswick, Canada, six of which are new records for the Maritime provinces, and one of which is new Canadian record. We also provide the first recent records for five additional species in New Brunswick. One new species of Stenotrachelidae, Cephaloon ungulare LeConte, is added to the New Brunswick faunal list. Additional records are provided for Cephaloon lepturides Newman, as well the first recent record of Nematoplus collaris LeConte. Two species of Oedemeridae, Asclera puncticollis (Say) and Asclera ruficollis (Say), are newly reported for New Brunswick, and additional locality and bionomic data are provided for Calopus angustus LeConte and Ditylus caeruleus (Randall). The records of D. caerulus are the first recent records for the province. Three species of Meloidae, Epicauta pestifera Werner, Lytta sayi LeConte, and Meloe augustcollis Say are reported the first time for New Brunswick; Epicauta pestifera is newly recorded in Canada. Lacconotus punctatus LeConte and the family Mycteridae is newly recorded for New Brunswick. The first recent records of Borus unicolor Say (Boridae) are reported from the province. One new species of Pythidae, Pytho siedlitzi Blair, and the first recent records of Pytho niger Kirby are added to the faunal list of New Brunswick. Three species of Pyrochroidae are newly reported for the province, including Pedilus canaliculatus (LeConte) and Pedilus elegans (Hentz), which are new for the Maritime provinces. Five species of Anthicidae and the first recent record of Anthicus cervinus LaFerté-Sénectére are newly reported for New Brunswick. Anthicus melancholicus LaFerté-Sénectère, Sapintus pubescens (LaFerté-Sénectère), Notoxus bifasciatus (LeConte), and Stereopalpus rufipes Casey are new to the Maritime provinces faunal list. Ambyderus granularis (LeConte) is removed from the faunal list of the province. Three species of Aderidae, Vanonus huronicus Casey, Z. fasciatus (Melsheimer), and Zonantes pallidus Werner, are newly recorded for New Brunswick; Zonantes fasciatus and V. huronicus are new for the Maritime provinces’ faunal list. Collection data, bionomic data, and distribution maps are presented for all these species.
["Stenotrachelidae"]
["Beetle Biology and Toxicology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Tenebrionidae and Zopheridae
Thirteen species of Tenebrionidae are newly reported for New Brunswick, Canada. Paratenetus punctatus Spinola, Pseudocistela brevis (Say), Mycetochara foveata (LeConte), and Xylopinus aenescens LeConte are recorded for the first time from the Maritime provinces. Platydema excavatum (Say) is removed from the faunal list of New Brunswick, and the presence of Platydema americanum Laporte and Brullé for the province is confirmed. This brings the total number of species of Tenebrionidae known from New Brunswick to 42. Two species of Zopheridae, Bitoma crenata Fabricius and Synchita fuliginosa Melsheimer, are newly recorded for New Brunswick, bringing the number of species known from the province to four. Bitoma crenata is new to the Maritime provinces. Collection and habitat data are presented for these species.
["Tenebrionidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Mordellidae and Ripiphoridae
Eleven species of Mordellidae are newly recorded for New Brunswick, Canada. Six of these, Falsomordellistena discolor (Melsheimer), Falsomordellistena pubescens (Fabricius), Mordellistena ornata (Melsheimer), Mordellaria undulata (Melsheimer), Tomoxia inclusa LeConte, and Yakuhananomia bidentata (Say) are new for the Maritime provinces. Falsomordellistena pubescens is new to Canada. Pelecotoma flavipes Melsheimer (family Ripiphoridae) is reported for the first time for New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces. Collection and habitat data are presented for all these species.
["Mordellidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Mycetophagidae, Tetratomidae, and Melandryidae
We report 21 new species records for the Coleoptera fauna of New Brunswick, Canada, seven of which are new records for the Maritime provinces. Four species of Mycetophagidae (Litargus didesmus Say, Litargus tetrapilotus LeConte, Mycetophagus punctatus Say, and Mycetophagus quadriguttatus Müller) are newly reported for the province of New Brunswick. Litargus didesmus is newly recorded for the Maritime provinces. Seven species of Tetratomidae are added to the faunal list of New Brunswick: Eustrophus tomentosus Say, Penthe obliquata (Fabricius), and Tetratoma tessellata Melsheimer are new to New Brunswick: Hallomenus serricornis LeConte, Pisenus humeralis Kirby, Synstrophus repandus (Horn), and Tetratoma variegata Casey, which are newly recorded for New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces. Ten additional species of Melandryidae are reported from New Brunswick, of which Orchesia cultriformis Laliberté, Orchesia ovata Laliberté, Phloeotrya fusca (LeConte), Scotochroides antennatus Mank, Spilotus quadripustulatus (Melsheimer), Symphora flavicollis (Haldeman), Symphora rugosa (Haldeman), and Zilora hispida LeConte are new for the province, and Microscapha clavicornis LeConte and Zilora nuda Provancher are newly recorded for the Maritime provinces. In addition, we report numerous additional records for three species of Mycetophagidae and one species of Melandryidae previously recorded from New Brunswick that suggest these species are more widely distributed than previously known. Collection, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for all these species.
["Mycetophagidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

New Coleoptera records for New Brunswick, Canada: Kateretidae, Nitidulidae, Cerylonidae, Endomychidae, Coccinellidae, and Latridiidae
We report 20 new species records for the Coleoptera fauna in New Brunswick, Canada, five of which are new records for the Maritime provinces, including one species that is new for Canada. One species of Kateretidae, Kateretes pusillus (Thunberg) is newly recorded for New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces. Stelidota octomaculata (Say), Phenolia grossa (Fabricius), and Cryptarcha strigatula Parsons of the family Nitidulidae are added to the faunal list of New Brunswick; the latter species is new to the Maritime provinces. Two species of Cerylonidae, Philothermus glabriculus LeConte and Cerylon unicolor (Ziegler), are reported for the first time for New Brunswick. Philothermus glabriculus is new for the Maritime provinces. Two species of Endomychidae, Hadromychus chandleri Bousquet and Leschen and Danae testacea (Ziegler) are newly recorded for New Brunswick. Three species of Coccinelidae, Stethorus punctum punctum (LeConte), Naemia seriata seriata Melsheimer, and Macronaemia episcopalis (Kirby) are added to the provincial list. Macronaemia episcopalis (Kirby) is a species new to the Maritime provinces. Nine species of Latridiidae, Cartodere nodifer (Westwood), Dienerella ruficollis (Marsham), Enicmus aterrimus Motschulsky, Enicmus fictus Fall, Encimus histrio Jay and Tomlin, Lathridius minutus (Linnaeus), Stephostethus productus Rosenhauer, Corticaria elongata (Gyllenhal), and Corticarina longipennis (LeConte) are newly recorded for New Brunswick. Stephostehus productus is newly recorded from Canada. Collection and habitat data are presented for all these species.
["Cerylonidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Sphindidae, Erotylidae, Monotomidae, and Cryptophagidae
Two species of Sphindidae, Odontosphindus denticollis LeConte and Sphindus trinifer Casey, are reported for the first time for New Brunswick. Another species, Sphindus near americanus LeConte is reported from the province but may be an undescribed species, pending further study. Five species of Erotylidae are newly recorded for the province, including Tritoma humeralis Fabricius and Tritoma sanguinipennis (Say), which are new to the Maritime provinces. Three species of Monotomidae are added to the New Brunswick faunal list, including Pycnotomina cavicollis (Horn), which is newly recorded for the Maritime provinces. Six additional species of Cryptophagidae are reported for the province and the presence of Antherophagus convexulus LeConte in New Brunswick is confirmed. Cryptophagus pilosus Gyllenhal and Myrmedophila americana (LeConte) are newly reported to the Maritime provinces.
["Sphindidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Silvanidae and Laemophloeidae
One species of Silvanidae, Silvanus muticus Sharp, is newly recorded from New Brunswick, Canada and the Maritime provinces; Ahasverus longulus (Blatchley) is re-instated to the faunal list of the province, and we report the first recent provincial records of Dendrophagus cygnaei Mannerheim. Five species of Laemophloeidae (Charaphloeus convexulus (LeConte), Charaphloeus undescribed species (near adustus), Leptophloeus angustulus (LeConte), Placonotus zimmermanni (LeConte), and an undescribed Leptophloeus species) are added to the faunal list of New Brunswick. Collection data, bionomic data, and distribution maps are presented for all these species.
["Silvanidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Trogossitidae, Cleridae, and Melyridae, with an addition to the fauna of Nova Scotia
Grynocharis quadrilineata (Melsheimer) and Tenebroides corticalis (Melsheimer) of the family Trogossitidae are newly recorded for New Brunswick, Canada. Additional records of the recently reported Calitys scabra (Thunberg) and Ostoma fraterna (Randall) are presented for the province. The record of O. fraterna is the first recent record of this species from New Brunswick. Additional New Brunswick records of the thaneroclerine, Zenodosus sanguineus (Say), are given, indicting that this species is common and widespread in the province. One species of Cleridae, Cymatodera bicolor (Say), is newly reported from New Brunswick, and the adventive Thanasimus formicarius Linnaeus is newly recorded from Nova Scotia and the Maritime provinces. Attalus morulus (LeConte) and Dolichosoma foveicolle (Kirby), family Melyridae, are reported for the first time for New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces. Collection, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for these species.
["Cleridae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Dermestidae, Endecatomidae, Bostrichidae, and Ptinidae
We report ten new species records for the Coleoptera fauna of New Brunswick, Canada from the families Dermestidae, Endecatomidae, Bostrichidae, and Ptinidae. Anthrenus fuscus Olivier and Anthrenus museorum (Linnaeus) of the family Dermestidae are newly recorded for New Brunswick. Endecatomus rugosus (Randall) and the family Endecatomidae are recorded for the first time for New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces. Two Bostrichidae, the adventive Dinoderus minutus (Fabricius) and the native Stephanopachys substriatus (Paykull), are newly recorded for the province. Five species of Ptinidae, the adventive Anobium punctatum (DeGeer) and Microbregma emarginatum emarginatum (Duftschmid), and the native Hadrobregmus notatus (Say), Ptilinus lobatus Casey, and Ptilinus ruficornis Say are added to the faunal list of New Brunswick. Collection data, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for all these species.
["Dermestidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Lycidae
Eight species of Lycidae are newly recorded from New Brunswick, Canada, bringing the total number of species known from the province to 16. The first documented records from New Brunswick are provided for Greenarius thoracicus (Randall) Erotides scuptilis (Say), and Calopteron terminale (Say) reported by Majka et al. (2011). Eropterus arculus Green, Lopheros crenatus (Germar), and Calochromus perfacetus (Say) are reported for the first time in the Maritime provinces. Collection data, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for all these species.
["Lycidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Elateridae
Twenty-two species of Elateridae are newly reported for New Brunswick, Canada. Negastrius exiguus (Randall) is removed from the faunal list and Agriotes pubescens Melsheimer is re-instated as a member of the New Brunswick fauna. Agriotes pubescens Melsheimer, Dalopius brevicornis W. J. Brown, Danosoma obtectum (Say) and Megapenthes solitarius Fall are newly reported for the Maritime provinces. Collection data, bionomic data, and distribution maps are presented for all these species.
["Elateridae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Eucnemidae
We report nine species of Eucnemidae new to the province and additional records for Onichodon canadensis (Brown) and Dromaeolus harringtoni Horn. Five species, Xylophilus cylindriformis (Horn), Entomophthalmus rufiolus (LeConte), Stethon pectorosus LeConte, Onichodon orchesides Newman, and Isarthrus rufipes (Melsheimer), are newly recorded for the Maritime provinces. This brings the total number of Eucnemidae recorded from New Brunswick to 15 species. Lindgren funnel traps are an effective tool for sampling the Eucnemidae.
["Eucnemidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Dryopidae, Elmidae, Psephenidae, and Ptilodactylidae
We report five new species records for New Brunswick, Canada from the Coleoptera families Dryopidae, Elimidae, Psephenidae, and Ptilodactylidae. Dryops viennensis (Heer) (Dryopidae) and Promoresia elegans (LeConte) (Elmidae) are added to the faunal list for New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces. Two Psephenidae species, Ectopria nervosa (Melsheimer) and Ectopria thoracica (Ziegler) are reported for the first time for New Brunswick, and the latter species is also new for the Maritime provinces. Anchytarsus bicolor (Melsheimer) and the family Ptilodactylidae are newly recorded for New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces. Collection, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for all of these species.
["Dryopidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Buprestidae
Nine species of Buprestidae; Agrilus bilineatus (Weber), Agrilus crinicornis Horn, Agrilus obsoletoguttatus Gory, Agrilus putillus putillus Say, Brachys ovatus (Weber), Buprestis sulcicollis (LeConte), Chalcophora liberta (Germar), Phaenops aeneola (Melsheimer), and Taphrocerus gracilis (Say) are newly recorded for New Brunswick, Canada. Agrilus bilineatus, A. crinicornis, A. obsoletoguttatus, and B. ovatus are also newly reported for the Maritime provinces. Lindgren 12-funnel traps do not appear to be an effective tool for sampling the Bupresidae. Collection, habitat notes, and distribution maps are presented for each species.
["Buprestidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Eucinetidae and Scirtidae
We report two species of Eucinetidae, Nycteus oviformis (LeConte) and Nycteus punctulatus (LeConte), new to New Brunswick, Canada and confirm the presence of Nycteus testaceus (LeConte). Nycteus oviformis is newly recorded from the Maritime provinces. Additional locality data are provided for Eucinetus haemorrhoidalis (Germar) and Eucinetus morio LeConte. Five species of Scirtidae, Cyphon ruficollis (Say), Prionocyphon discoideus (Say), Sacodes pulchella (Guérin-Méneville), Elodes maculicollis Horn, and Sarabandus robustus (LeConte) are added to the New Brunswick faunal list. Sarabandus robustus is newly recorded from Canada; Cyphon ruficollis, P. discoideus and S. pulchella are new for the Maritime provinces. Collection and habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for these species.
["Eucinetidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Geotrupidae and Scarabaeidae
Two species of Geotrupidae, Geotrupes splendidus splendidus (Fabricius) and Odonteus liebecki (Wallis), are newly reported for New Brunswick, Canada. Twelve species of Scarabaeidae are added to the faunal list of the province, including Aegialia criddlei Brown, Caelius humeralis (Brown), Dialytellus dialytoides (Fall), Diapterna omissa (LeConte), Diapterna pinguis (Haldeman), Planolinoides aenictus (Cooper and Gordon), Stenotothorax badipes (Melsheimer), and Ataenius strigatus (Say), which are also newly recorded for the Maritime provinces. Collection data, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for each species.
["Geotrupidae"]

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Histeridae
Eighteen species of Histeridae are newly reported from New Brunswick, Canada. This brings the total number of species known from New Brunswick to 42. Seven of these species, Acritus exguus (Erichson), Euspilotus rossi (Wenzel), Hypocaccus fitchi (Marseul), Dendrophilus kiteleyi Bousquet and Laplante, Platysoma cylindricum (Paykull), Atholus sedecimstriatus (Say), and Margarinotus harrisii (Kirby) are recorded from the Maritime provinces for the first time. Collection and bionomic data are presented for these species.

New Coleoptera records from New Brunswick, Canada: Gyrinidae, Carabidae, and Dytiscidae
Dineutus assimilis Kirby and Dineutus discolor Aubé of the Family Gyrinidae are newly reported from New Brunswick, Canada. Four species of Carabidae, Agonum (Agonum) piceolum (LeConte), Bembidion (Pseudoperyphus) rufotinctum Chaudoir, Harpalus (Harpalus) opacipennis (Haldeman), and Pterostichus (Melanius) castor Goulet & Bousquet are newly reported from New Brunswick and the Maritime provinces, and one species of Dytiscidae, Liodessus noviaffinis Miller, is newly recorded for the province. Collection, habitat data, and distribution maps are presented for each species.
["Gyrinidae"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Diversity of the strongly rheophilous tadpoles of Malagasy tree frogs, genus Boophis (Anura, Mantellidae), and identification of new candidate species via larval DNA sequence and morphology
This study provides detailed morphological descriptions of previously unknown tadpoles of the treefrog genus Boophis Tschudi and analyses of habitat preferences of several of these tadpoles in Ranomafana National Park. A total of twenty-two tadpoles determined via DNA barcoding are characterized morphologically herein, fourteen of them for the first time. Twelve of these tadpoles belong to taxonomically undescribed candidate species which in several cases are so far only known from their larval stages. Our data show that the larvae of some of these candidate species occur syntopically yet maintaining a clearly correlated genetic and morphological identity, suggesting that they indeed are true biological and evolutionary species. Tadpoles considered to belong to the “adherent” ecomorphological guild inhabit fast-running waters and their oral disc is commonly to continuously attached to the rocky substrate, supposedly to keep their position in the water current. Some of these species are characterized by the presence of a dorsal gap of papillae and the absence of an upper jaw sheath. This guild includes the tadpoles of the B. albipuncatus group (B. ankaratra, B. schuboeae, B. albipunctatus, B. sibilans, B. luciae), and of the B. mandraka group (B. sambirano and six candidate species related to this species and to B. mandraka). Tadpoles considered belonging to the “suctorial” guild inhabit fast-running waters where they use frequently their oral disc to attach to the substrate. They have an enlarged oral disc without any dorsal gap, including two nominal species (B. marojezensis, B. vittatus), and five candidate species related to B. marojezensis. An ecological analysis of the tadpoles of B. luciae, B. schuboeae and B. marojezensis [Ca51 JQ518198] from Ranomafana National Park did not provide evidence for a clear preference of these tadpoles to the fast flowing microhabitat sections of the stream, although the tadpoles discussed in this study are typically caught in this habitat.

A remarkable new species of Euragallia from Peru (Insecta, Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Agalliini), including the description of a peculiar structure of the male genitalia
A new species of Euragallia Oman, 1938 from Peru (Pasco Department) is described and illustrated. Euragallia batmani sp. n. can be distinguished from the other species of the genus by the very posteriorly pronounced male pygofer, with an apical hook-like projection, and by the well-developed dorsal area of the aedeagal base, resembling the open wings of a bat. With the addition of E. batmani sp. n., the number of Euragallia species is increased to 21. Only one additional species of the genus is recorded from Peru (E. prion Kramer, 1976). A comparison between the new species and E. prion is provided. A conspicuous structure, which connects the subgenital plates to the styles, is described in detail and named.
["Leafhopper"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

The soil mite genus Conchogneta (Acari, Oribatida, Autognetidae), with new findings from Mongolia
This work deals with taxonomy, geographical distribution as well as known ecology of oribatid mites of the genus Conchogneta Grandjean, 1963 in the world. The majority of species belonging to this genus is known to be widely distributed in Europe, but only three of them are found in other areas of the northern hemisphere. Most species of Conchogneta are inhabitants of litter of various types of forestas, terricolous and epiphytic bryophytes, epiphytic lichens, and soil of steppe, river valleys, moor, oligotrophic bogs, floodland assemblages etc. A new species, Conchogneta glabrisensillata sp. n. is described, and another species, C. traegardhi (Forsslund, 1947) is redescribed from the northern and western parts of Mongolia, respectively. Conchogneta is recorded for the first time for the fauna of Mongolia. The species status of C. dalecarlica (Forsslund, 1947) is discussed. Species descriptions are accompanied with detailed illustrations. Furthermore, a key is provided for the identification of adults of the known species of Conchogneta in the world.

Ohio USA stoneflies (Insecta, Plecoptera): species richness estimation, distribution of functional niche traits, drainage affiliations, and relationships to other states
Ohio is an eastern USA state that historically was >70% covered in upland and mixed coniferous forest; about 60% of it glaciated by the Wisconsinan glacial episode. Its stonefly fauna has been studied in piecemeal fashion until now. The assemblage of Ohio stoneflies was assessed from over 4,000 records accumulated from 18 institutions, new collections, and trusted literature sources. Species richness totaled 102 with estimators Chao2 and ICE Mean predicting 105.6 and 106.4, respectively. Singletons and doubletons totaled 18 species. All North American families were represented with Perlidae accounted for the highest number of species at 34. The family Peltoperlidae contributed a single species. Most species had univoltine–fast life cycles with the vast majority emerging in summer, although there was a significant component of winter stoneflies. Nine United States Geological Survey hierarchical drainage units level 6 (HUC6) were used to stratify specimen data. Species richness was significantly related to the number of unique HUC6 locations, but there was no relationship with HUC6 drainage area. A nonparametric multidimensional scaling analysis found that larger HUC6s in the western part of the state had similar assemblages with lower species richness that were found to align with more savanna and wetland habitat. Other drainagesricher assemblages were aligned with upland deciduous and mixed coniferous forests of the east and south where slopes were higher. The Ohio assemblage was most similar to the well–studied fauna of Indiana (88 spp.) and Kentucky (108 spp.), two neighboring states. Many rare species and several high quality stream reaches should be considered for greater protection.

Megalara garuda, a new genus and species of larrine wasps from Indonesia (Larrinae, Crabronidae, Hymenoptera)
A new genus and species, Megalara garuda is described from Sulawesi (Indonesia). The new species is one the largest known members of the crabronid subfamily Larrinae. It has a unique suite of putatively apomorphic morphological characters and is most closely related to the genus Paraliris. We found indications of a significant allometric variation in body size and mandibular length and shape in male Megalara, and the presence of acarinaria at least in females of the new genus. Allometric variation and acarinaria have previously been shown to occur in Paraliris, which is another indication for a close relationship of Megalara and Paraliris.
["Sulawesi"]

One the genus Tocama Reitter (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Melolonthinae), with descriptions of two new species from Indochina
Two new species of the Oriental scarab genus Tocama Reitter, 1902, Tocama laosensis sp. n. and T. procera sp. n., are described from Indochina with diagnoses, distributions, remarks and illustrations. A key to the species of the genus is provided with a checklist with several nomenclatural changes: Hoplosternus tonkinensis Moser, 1913 is transferred to Tocama; Hoplosternus pygidialis Moser, 1915 syn. n., Tocama atra atra Keith, 2006 syn. n. and Tocama atra reichenbachi Keith, 2007 syn. n. = Tocama tonkinensis (Moser).
["Tocama"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Plant and soil sciences"]

Six new species of the genus Laena Dejean from China (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae, Lagriinae)
Six new species of Laena Dejean, Laena quadrata sp. n. and Laena motogana sp. n. (China: Xizang), Laena chiloriluxa sp. n., Laena dentata sp. n. and Laena liangi sp. n. (China: Yunnan), Laena dentatocrassa sp. n. (China: Hainan Island, representing new province record of the genus) are described, complemented with photos of habitus, illustrations of legs, antenna, aedeagus and last abdominal ventrite of male and female. Type specimens are deposited in both the Museum of Hebei University, Baoding, China and the Natural History Museum of Stuttgart, Germany. A key to the 102 Chinese species of genus Laena is provided.

Wernerius inyoensis, an elusive new scorpion from the Inyo Mountains of California (Scorpiones, Vaejovidae)
A new scorpion species is described from the Inyo Mountains of California (USA). The presence of a strong subaculear spine, along with other characters, places the new species within Wernerius, an incredibly rare genus that until now consisted of only two species. Wernerius inyoensis sp. n. can be most easily distinguished from the other members of the genus by smaller adult size, femur and pedipalp dimensions, and differences in hemispermatophore morphology. Previous studies have suggested that the elusive nature of this genus may be attributed to low densities and sporadic surface activity. Herein, we provide another hypothesis, that Wernerius are primarily subterranean. Mitochondrial sequence data are provided for the holotype.
["Vaejovis"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Study of Mite Species"]

Prolonged feeding of terrestrial isopod (Porcellio scaber, Isopoda, Crustacea) on TiO2 nanoparicles. Absence of toxic effect
Nanoparticles of titanium dioxide are one of most widely used nanomaterials in different products in everyday use and in industry, but very little is known about their effects on non- target cells and tissues. Terrestrial isopods were exposed to food dosed with nano-TiO2 to give final nominal concentration 1000 and 2000 µg TiO2/g dry weight of food. The effects of ingested nano-TiO2 on the model invertebrate Porcellio scaber (Isopoda, Crustacea) after short-term (3 and 7 days) and prolonged (14 and 28 days) dietary exposure was assessed by conventional toxicity measures such as feeding rate, weight change and mortality. Cell membrane destabilization was also investigated. No severe toxicity effects were observed after 3, 7, 14 or 28 days of dietary exposure to nano-TiO2, but some animals, particularly those exposed to lower concentrations of nanoparticles, had severely destabilized digestive cell membranes. It was concluded that strong destabilization of the cell membrane was sporadic, and neither concentration- nor time-related. Further research is needed to confirm this sporadic toxic effect of nanoparticles.
["Isopods"]
["Education and Public Policy", "Business and Management Studies"]

The diversity of terrestrial isopods in the natural reserve “Saline di Trapani e Paceco” (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) in northwestern Sicily
Ecosystems comprising coastal lakes and ponds are important areas for preserving biodiversity. The natural reserve “Saline di Trapani e Paceco” is an interesting natural area in Sicily, formed by the remaining strips of land among salt pans near the coastline. From January 2008 to January 2010, pitfall trapping was conducted in five sampling sites inside the study area. The community of terrestrial isopods was assessed using the main diversity indices. Twenty-four species were collected, only one of them endemic to western Sicily: Porcellio siculoccidentalis Viglianisi, Lombardo & Caruso, 1992. Two species are new to Sicily: Armadilloniscus candidus Budde-Lund, 1885 and Armadilloniscus ellipticus (Harger, 1878). This is high species richness for a single reserve in Sicily. The extended sampling period also allowed us to study species phenology. Most of the species exhibited higher activity in spring than in autumn while some species also exhibited lower activity in the summer. The species richness revealed that the study area is in an acceptable conservation status; Shannon and Pielou indices also confirmed a more or less even distribution of individuals belonging to different species.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Terrestrial isopod community as indicator of succession in a peat bog
Terrestrial isopods were studied in the Dubravica peat bog and surrounding forest in the northwestern Croatia. Sampling was conducted using pitfall traps over a two year period. Studied peat bog has a history of drastically decrease in area during the last five decades mainly due to the process of natural succession and changes in the water level. A total of 389 isopod individuals belonging to 8 species were captured. Species richness did not significantly differ between bog, edge and surrounding forest. High species richness at the bog is most likely the result of progressive vegetation succession, small size of the bog and interspecific relationships, such as predation. With spreading of Molinia grass on the peat bog, upper layers of Sphagnum mosses become less humid and probably more suitable for forest species that slowly colonise bog area. The highest diversity was found at the edge mainly due to the edge effect and seasonal immigration, but also possibly due to high abundance and predator pressure of the Myrmica ants and lycosid spiders at the bog site. The most abundant species were Trachelipus rathkii and Protracheoniscus politus, in the bog area and in the forest, respectively. Bog specific species were not recorded and the majority of the species collected belong to the group of tyrphoneutral species. However, Hyloniscus adonis could be considered as a tyrphoxenous species regarding its habitat preferences. Most of collected isopod species are widespread eurytopic species that usually inhabit various habitats and therefore indicate negative successive changes or degradation processes in the peat bog.
["Edge"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

The postmarsupial development of Porcellio siculoccidentalis, with some data on reproductive biology (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea)
In the broader context of research on the Sicilian Porcellio imbutus-complex, the postmarsupial development of Porcellio siculoccidentalis Viglianisi, Lombardo & Caruso, 1992 was studied in detail. This research was conducted in the laboratory under controlled conditions, allowing us to follow the stages of development, from the formation of the marsupium in ovigerous females until the larval stages and development of the seventh pair of legs. The timing of developmental stages and the morphological modifications of appendages in the postmarsupial manca stages (M I–M III) are described. The manca stage M I had a duration of about one hour. Ovigerous females were collected and reared separately, and the number of parturial molts in the absence of males was counted. The results showed a maximum of four successive parturial molts. Fecundity and fertility were evaluated as the number of eggs and embryos, respectively, inside the marsupium of the ovigerous females. Both parameters were positively correlated with the size of the females. The maximum numbers of eggs and embryos in the marsupium were 113 and 141, respectively. Data describing the total number of postmarsupial mancas released per month indicated that the highest release occurred in April.
["Terrestrial isopods"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Discovery of Hemilepistus elongatus Budde-Lund, 1885 (Isopoda, Oniscidea) in Iran: redescription and intraspecific character variability
In the present study, Hemilepistus elongatus Budde-Lund, 1885 is reported from Iran for the first time, redescribed and its diagnostic characters are figured. This species reveals a high variability in morphological characters. The division of the species at the subspecific level can not be supported anymore. This species differs from other species of the genus by the unique shape of male pleopod-endopodite I.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Two new species of Pselaphodes Westwood and new record of Taiwanophodes minor Hlaváč from South China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
Two new species, Pselaphodes linae Yin & Li, sp. n. (Hainan, Fujian) and P. shii Yin & Li, sp. n. (Hainan) are described from South China. Taiwanophodes minor Hlaváč is reported from outside Taiwan for the first time. Illustrations of major diagnostic features are provided for all treated taxa. The latest key to Chinese Pselaphodes is modified to include the new species.

A new species of Hedgpethia (Arthropoda, Pycnogonida, Colossendeidae) from southwestern Japan
We describe Hedgpethia spinosa sp. n. based on a single male specimen obtained from 197–207 m depth, south of Yaku Island, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. Among 15 previously known congeners, the new species resembles H. bicornis (Losina-Losinsky & Turpaeva, 1958), H. chitinosa (Hilton, 1943), and probably H. brevitarsis (Losina-Losinsky & Turpaeva, 1958), ina mid-dorsal tubercle on the posterior rim on each trunk segment. The new species, however, is distinguishable from those by a pair of horns on the anterior margin of the cephalic segment, spines on the first coxae, and denticulate spines on the strigilis. The new species represents the fifth member of the genus so far known from Japanese waters, in addition to H. brevitarsis (Losina-Losinsky & Turpaeva, 1958), H. chitinosa (Hilton, 1943), H. dofleini (Loman, 1911), and H. elongata Takahashi, Dick & Mawatari, 2007.
["Pantopoda"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Loxosceles niedeguidonae (Araneae, Sicariidae) a new species of brown spider from Brazilian semi-arid region
A new species of recluse spider, Loxosceles niedeguidonae sp. n., is described from the Parque Nacional Serra da Capivara, State of Piauí, Brazil. This is the first endemic species described from Brazilian semi-arid environment. The species is included in gaucho group of Gertsch (1967) due to its spermathecal shape and is considered close to L. chapadensis Bertani, Fukushima & Nagahama, 2010 by the unusual long male palpal tibia, a character not common for species of this group. An updated key for Loxosceles species of gaucho group is presented.
["Brown spider"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Darwininitium – a new fully pseudosigmurethrous orthurethran genus from Nepal (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Cerastidae)
A new genus and species of pseudosigmurethrous orthurethran pulmonate of the family Cerastidae, Darwininitium shiwalikianum gen. n. and sp. n. is described from the Lesser Himalaya of Nepal. It represents the first record of an orthurethran with a fully developed pseudosigmurethrous pallial system,a completely closed secondary ureteric system. Biogeographically this new taxon provides a significant range extension for the family north of the previously known distribution range.
["Pseudosigmurethrous"]

Three new species of Potamothrix (Oligochaeta, Naididae, Tubificinae) from Fuxian Lake, the deepest lake of Yunnan Province, Southwest China
Three new species of Potamothrix Vejdovský & Mrázek, 1902 (Oligochaeta: Tubificinae), P. praeprostatus sp. n., P. paramoldaviensis sp. n. and P. parabedoti sp. n., are reported from Fuxian Lake of Yunnan Province, Southwest China. P. praeprostatus differs from its allies by its prostate glands joining atria in its proximal to middle portion, and spermathecal chaetae. P. paramoldaviensis is distinguishable from its allies bypenial chaeta but no penes, and differs from P. moldaviensis by its homogenous atrium. P. parabedoti is distinctive in the position of its reproductive organs, and differs from P. bedoti by its homogenous atrium. Hitherto, 34 freshwater oligochaete species have been recorded in Yunnan Province, including nine endemic species from the plateau lakes.
["Potamothrix"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Perapion connexum (Schilsky, 1902) (Coleoptera, Apionidae) in Central Europe, a case of plant expansion chase
Perapion connexum (Schilsky) is recorded for the first time from Hungary and Kyrgyzstan, and new distribution data from Ukraine and Russia are provided. Preliminary placements of this weevil in faunal checklists for Poland and Slovakia are here documented with detailed data. Its occurrence in Austria based on older evidence, is discussed. The neophytic and invasive in Central Europe sorrel Rumex confertus Willd. is confirmed to be its unique host plant in Poland. Morphology of the newcoming weevil is described and illustrated, and the key to all Central European species of Perapion is presented.
["Weevils"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

First record of the cicada genus Semia Matsumura (Hemiptera, Cicadidae) from Vietnam, with the description of one new species and a key to species
The first record of the genus Semia Matsumura (Cicadidae: Cicadinae, Cicadini) from Vietnam is presented. One new species, Semia spinosa sp. n., is described from southern Vietnam. Photos of the adult, illustrations of the male genitalia, a distribution map and biological data are provided. A key to the species of Semia based on the male adults is also given.
["New record genus"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

The Ochodaeidae of Argentina (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea)
The Ochodaeidae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea) of Argentina are revised. Previously, two species of Ochodaeinae were known from the country, both in the genus Parochodaeus Nikolajev: P. campsognathus (Arrow) and P. cornutus (Ohaus). An additional 7 species of Parochodaeus from Argentina are described here as new. In addition, Gauchodaeus patagonicus, new genus and new species in the subfamily Chaetocanthinae, is described. This is the first record of the subfamily Chaetocanthinae in South America. Redescriptions, diagnoses, and maps are provided for each species. We also provide a key to genera and a key to species of Parochodaeus of Argentina. With this work, the number of ochodaeid species known from Argentina is increased from 2 to 10.

New distributional data on Oxysternon pteroderum Nevinson, 1892 (Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae, Phanaeini) and its possible implications in conservation
New distributional data are reported on the rare phanaeine dung beetle, Oxysternon pteroderum Nevinson, 1892, based on five specimens recently collected between 1985 and 2010. Before the present study, Oxysternun pteroderum had been reported solely from the super-moist Atlantic coastal forests of southeastern Brazil. We now believe that the distribution of O. pteroderum follows the riparian areas of large rivers connected to the super-moist forest ecosystem.

Achrysocharoides Girault (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) new to tropical America, with eight new species
The genus Achrysocharoides Girault is here reported for the first time from tropical America. Included are ten species, eight newly described: A. asperulus, A. callisetosus, A. cuspidatus, A. foveatus, A. infuscus, A. mediocarinatus, A. purpureus, A. sulcatus, and two already known: A. ecuadorensis (Hansson) and A. gliricidiae (Hansson & Cave). All species are included in an identification key, diagnosed, described and illustrated. Only one of the species, A. gliricidiae, has a host record, an endoparasitoid in a leafmining Gracillariidae (Lepidoptera) on Gliricidia sepium (Fabaceae), thus conforming to the biology of extralimital Achrysocharoides species. The genus Kratoysma Bouček is here established as a junior synonym of Achrysocharoides, and the following species previously in Kratoysma are here recombined to Achrysocharoides: K. citri Bouček, K. ecuadorensis Hansson, K. gliricidiae Hansson & Cave, K. longifacies Hansson, K. nepalensis Hansson, Derostenus usticrus Erdös.
["Neotropical"]

Description of a new species of Haemogamasus (Mesostigmata, Laelapidae, Haemogamasinae) from Chubut, Río Negro and Neuquén Provinces, Argentina
A new species of Haemogamasus mites is described from Chubut, Neuquén and Río Negro Provinces, Argentina. It was collected primarily from rodents of the genus Abrothrix (65 of 77 collections): Abrothrix longipilis (63), Abrothrix o. olivaceus (1) and Abrothrix o. xanthorhinus (1). Additional collections were made from Geoxus valdivianus (5) and Loxdomtomys micropus (5). Possibly incidental or contaminate collections were recorded from Oligoryzomys longicaudatus (1) and Dromiciops gliroides (1). Most collections came from Río Negro Province (36), with 22 from Neuquén and 19 from Chubut. An identification key is provided to distinguish ♀s of this new species from ♀s of species from the western hemisphere, based on morphological characters.
["ectoparasite"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Commensal Leucothoidae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) of the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. Part III: coral rubble-dwellers
Commensal leucothoid amphipods have been collected from coral rubble samples throughout the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. Seven new species are described in two genera with valuable location data. A new locality is presented for Paranamixis misakiensis Thomas, 1997. An identification key to all described Leucothoidae of the Ryukyu Archipelago is provided.
["Leucothoidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of Halacarsantia Wolff, 1989 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Asellota, Santiidae) from Wistari Reef, southern Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Halacarsantia acuta sp. n. is described from Wistari Reef, Capricorn Group, southern Great Barrier Reef, the first record of the genus from Australia. The new species differs from its congeners inantenna flagellum composed of 8 articles; epipod apically acute, without setae, broad maxilliped endite and pereopod 1 basis with a short projection. A key to species of the genus is provided.

A new species of Geotrigona Moure from the Caribbean coast of Colombia (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
A new species of the Neotropical stingless bee genus Geotrigona Moure from the Caribbean coast of Colombia is described and figured. Geotrigona joearroyoi sp. n. belongs to the fulvohirta species group and is distinguished on the basis of color and type of pubescence on the metasomal terga. New geographical records and an updated key to the species of Geotrigona are provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Contribution to knowledge of the genus Chydaeus in Xizang Autonomous Region (Tibet) and Yunnan Province, China (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Harpalini)
Five new species of the genus Chydaeus Chaudoir, 1854 are described from China: C. fugongensis sp. n. (Shibali, Fugong County, Yunnan Province), C. gutangensis sp. n. (Gutang, Medog County, Xizang Autonomous Region [Tibet]), C. hanmiensis sp. n. (Hanmi, Medog County, Xizang Autonomous Region [Tibet]), C. asetosus sp. n. (NE of Fugong, Yunnan Province), and C. baoshanensis sp. n. (N of Baoshan, Yunnan Province). Taxonomic and faunistic notes on eleven other species occurring in Xizang and Yunnan are also provided. Chydaeus shunichii Ito, 2006 is re-described, based on specimens from Lushui County, Yunnan. Chydaeus kumei Ito, 1992 is treated as a subspecies of C. andrewesi Schauberger, 1932 [NEW STATUS]. The taxonomic status of C. guangxiensis Ito, 2006 is discussed. The following taxa are recorded from China for the first time: C. obtusicollis Schauberger, 1932 (Xizang and Yunnan), C. malaisei Kataev & Schmidt, 2006 (Yunnan), C. semenowi (Tschitschérine, 1899) (Xizang and Yunnan), C. andrewesi andrewesi Schauberger, 1932 (Xizang and Yunnan), C. andrewesi kumei Ito (Yunnan), C. bedeli interjectus Kataev & Schmidt, 2002 (Xizang), and C. bedeli vietnamensis Kataev & Schmidt, 2002 (Yunnan).

New taxa of terrestrial molluscs from Turkey (Gastropoda, Pristilomatidae, Enidae, Hygromiidae, Helicidae)
This paper reports on results of several collecting trips of the authors in Turkey. In the course of this research, a long-lasting question was addressed. It could be proven that the nominal species Bulimus frivaldskyi L. Pfeiffer, 1847 is closely related to Meijeriella canaliculata Bank, 1985, and thus this species is shifted from the genus Ena Turton, 1831, to the genus Meijeriella Bank, 1985. Meijeriella canaliculata Bank, 1985, could be recorded from Turkey for the first time. The nomenclatural situation of the species Euchondrus septemdentatus (Roth, 1839) vs. its replacement name Euchondrus borealis (Mousson, 1874) is discussed. A new arrangement of the species formely comprised in the genus Zebrina Held, 1837 is presented, and the genera Rhabdoena Kobelt & Moellendorff, 1902, and Leucomastus A. Wagner, 1927 are re-established. The following species and subspecies new to science could be described: Vitrea gostelii sp. n. (Pristilomatidae), Turanena demirsoyi sp. n., Euchondrus paucidentatus sp. n., Rhabdoena gostelii sp. n. (all Enidae), Metafruticicola kizildagensis sp. n. (Hygromiidae), and Assyriella thospitis menkhorsti ssp. n. (Helicidae). For several other species, new distribution records are listed.
["Turkey"]

A new species of spider fly in the genus Sabroskya Schlinger from Malawi, with a key to Acrocerinae world genera (Diptera, Acroceridae)
In this paper we diagnose the genus Sabroskya Schlinger, 1960 and describe Sabroskya schlingeri sp. n. from Malawi. We also provide dichotomous keys to species of Sabroskya and to world genera of the subfamily Acrocerinae, both extant and extinct.
["Acroceridae"]

Antispila oinophylla new species (Lepidoptera, Heliozelidae), a new North American grapevine leafminer invading Italian vineyards: taxonomy, DNA barcodes and life cycle
A grapevine leafminer Antispila oinophylla van Nieukerken & Wagner, sp. n., is described both from eastern North America (type locality: Georgia) and as a new important invader in North Italian vineyards (Trentino and Veneto Region) since 2006. The species is closely related to, and previously confused with A. ampelopsifoliella Chambers, 1874, a species feeding on Virginia creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia (L.) Planchon., and both are placed in an informal A. ampelopsifoliella group. Wing pattern, genitalia, and DNA barcode data all confirm the conspecificity of native North American populations and Italian populations. COI barcodes differ by only 0–1.23%, indicating that the Italian populations are recently established from eastern North America. The new species feeds on various wild Vitis species in North America, on cultivated Vitis vinifera L. in Italy, and also on Parthenocissus quinquefolia in Italy. North American Antispila feeding on Parthenocissus include at least two other species, one of which is A. ampelopsifoliella. Morphology and biology of the new species are contrasted with those of North American Antispila Hübner, 1825 species and European Holocacista rivillei (Stainton, 1855). The source population of the introduction is unknown, but cases with larvae or pupae, attached to imported plants, are a likely possibility. DNA barcodes of the three European grapevine leafminers and those of all examined Heliozelidae are highly diagnostic. North American Vitaceae-feeding Antispila form two species complexes and include several as yet unnamed taxa. The identity of three out of the four previously described North American Vitaceae-feeding species cannot be unequivocally determined without further revision, but these are held to be different from A. oinophylla. In Italy the biology of A. oinophylla was studied in a vineyard in the Trento Province (Trentino-Alto Adige Region) in 2008 and 2009. Mature larvae overwinter inside their cases, fixed to vine trunks or training stakes. The first generation flies in June. An additional generation occurs from mid-August onwards. The impact of the pest in this vineyard was significant with more than 90% of leaves infested in mid-summer. Since the initial discovery in 2006, the pest spread to several additional Italian provinces, in 2010 the incidence of infestation was locally high in commercial vineyards. Preliminary phylogenetic analyses suggest that Antispila is paraphyletic, and that the Antispila ampelopsifoliella group is related to Coptodisca Walsingham, 1895, Holocacista Walsingham & Durrant, 1909 and Antispilina Hering, 1941, all of which possess reduced wing venation. Vitaceae may be the ancestral hostplant family for modern Heliozelidae.
["Invasive species"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

New species of Plectrocnemia and Nyctiophylax (Trichoptera, Polycentropodidae) from China
Four new species of genus Plectrocnemia and 4 new species of genus Nyctiophylax are described, namely: Plectrocnemia verticalis sp. n.; Plectrocnemia acuminata sp. n.; Plectrocnemia cryptoparamere sp. n.; Plectrocnemia qianshanensis sp. n.; Nyctiophylax (Nyctiophylax) senticosus sp. n.; Nyctiophylax (Paranyctiophylax) gracilis sp. n.; Nyctiophylax (Paranyctiophylax) pungens sp. n.; and Nyctiophylax (Paranyctiophylax) auriculatus sp. n.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Orobdella (Hirudinida, Arhynchobdellida, Gastrostomobdellidae) and redescription of O. kawakatsuorum from Hokkaido, Japan with the phylogenetic position of the new species
A new quadrannulate Orobdella Oka, 1895 species, Orobdella koikei sp. n., is described on the basis of six specimens collected from Hokkaido, Japan. In addition, an emended description of quadrannulate Orobdella kawakatsuorum Richardson, 1975 is also provided. Orobdella koikei differs from other quadrannulate species of Orobdella in possessing the following combination of characters: color dorsally brown, IV uniannulate, male gonopore at XI b6, gastropore and female gonopore at XIII a1, 1/2 + 4 + 1/2 between gonopores, XXV triannulate, tubular but bulbous at junctions with gastropore and crop gastroporal duct, epididymides in XVII to XIX, and atrial cornua ovate. The phylogenetic position of the newly described species is estimated using mitochondrial COI, tRNACys, tRNAMet, 12S rDNA, tRNAVal and 16S rDNA markers. Orobdella koikei is a sister taxon of O. kakawatsuorum according to the molecular phylogenetic analyses.
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of Ripipteryx from Belize with a key to the species of the Scrofulosa Group (Orthoptera, Ripipterygidae)
A new species of the genus Ripipteryx (Orthoptera: Tridactyloidea: Ripipterygidae) from the Toledo District of southern Belize is described and illustrated. Ripipteryx mopana sp. n. is placed in the Scrofulosa Group based on its elaborately ornamented frons and is readily distinguished from its congeners by the fusion of the superior and inferior frontal folds to form a nasiform median process, the epiproct with both anterior and posterior margins emarginate, the subgenital plate with distinct lateroapical depressions either side of the median line, the basal plate of the phallus strongly bilobed apically, and the development of well-demarcated denticular lobes in the dorsal endophallic valves. A preliminary key to the species of the Scrofulosa Group is provided.
["Orthoptera"]

A pair of new sister species of Loneura (Psocodea, ‘Psocoptera’, Ptiloneuridae) from Valle del Cauca, Colombia, representing a new infrageneric group
Two sister species of Loneura, from Valle del Cauca, Colombia, are here described and illustrated. They constitute a new species group that modifies the scheme of classification, proposed earlier for the genus by García Aldrete et al. (2011b). The new group is characterized bythe central sclerite of the male hypandrium with four posterior projections. A key to the males of Group II is included. The types are deposited in the Entomological Museum of the Universidad del Valle. Colombia may prove to be the most species rich area for Loneura.

On the spider genus Amaurobius (Araneae, Amaurobiidae) in India and Nepal
A new species, Amaurobius koponeni sp. n., is described from Himachal Pradesh on the basis of a male specimen. A key to all five genera of Amaurobiidae that occur in Asia is provided. Four species from India and Nepal incorrectly assigned to Amaurobius are transferred to three genera of Titanoecidae: Anuvinda milloti (Hubert, 1973) comb. n., Pandava andhraca (Patel & Reddy, 1990) comb. n., P. nathabhaii (Patel & Patel, 1975) comb. n., and Titanoeca sharmai (Bastawade, 2008) comb. n.
["Amaurobiidae"]

Two new and rare mountain door-snails (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Clausiliidae) from high mountain areas
in Macedonia
Two species of Clausiliidae are described as new to science. Euxinella alpinella sp. n. is the fourth species within genus Euxinella Nordsieck, 1973, and Vestia lazarovii sp. n. is the second species of genus Vestia recorded from the Republic of Macedonia. In both species, the clausilium apparatus shows a high degree of variation.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Geological Formations and Processes Exploration", "Ancient and Medieval Archaeology Studies"]

A new species of Andean semiaquatic lizard of the genus Potamites (Sauria, Gymnophtalmidae) from southern Peru
We describe a new lizard species of the genus Potamites from the montane forests of the Cordillera de Vilcabamba (Cusco region) and Apurimac River valley (Ayacucho region), between 1500 and 2000 meters of elevation, in southern Peru. The new species is distinguishable from all other species of the genus mainly byhighly keeled scattered scales on dorsum and females lacking femoral pores.
["Potamites"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Habralictus Moure from Dominica, Lesser Antilles (Hymenoptera, Halictidae)
A new species of Habralictus Moure (Apoidea, Halictidae) is described from the island of Dominica, Habralictus gonzalezi sp. n. The species is distinguished from other West Indian Habralictus and a key is provided to the West Indian Habralictus. Brief comments on the genus Habralictus and bee species of Dominica are provided.
["Habralictus"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Systematics, conservation and morphology of the spider genus Tayshaneta (Araneae, Leptonetidae) in Central Texas Caves
The spider genus Tayshaneta is revised based on results from a three gene phylogenetic analysis (Ledford et al. 2011) and a comprehensive morphological survey using scanning electron (SEM) and compound light microscopy. The morphology and relationships within Tayshaneta are discussed and five species-groups are supported by phylogenetic analyses: the anopica group, the coeca group, the myopica group, the microps group and the sandersi group. Short branch lengths within Tayshaneta contrast sharply with the remaining North American genera and are viewed as evidence for a relatively recent radiation of species. Variation in troglomorphic morphology is discussed and compared to patterns found in other Texas cave invertebrates. Several species previously known as single cave endemics have wider ranges than expected, suggesting that some caves are not isolated habitats but instead form part of interconnected karst networks. Distribution maps are compared with karst faunal regions (KFR’s) in Central Texas and the implications for the conservation and recovery of Tayshaneta species are discussed. Ten new species are described: T. archambaulti sp. n., T. emeraldae sp. n., T. fawcetti sp. n., T. grubbsi sp. n., T. madla sp. n., T. oconnorae sp. n., T. sandersi sp. n., T. sprousei sp. n., T. vidrio sp. n. and T. whitei sp. n. The males for three species, T. anopica (Gertsch, 1974), T. devia (Gertsch, 1974) and T. microps (Gertsch, 1974) are described for the first time. Tayshaneta furtiva (Gertsch, 1974) and T. uvaldea (Gertsch, 1974) are declared nomina dubia as the female holotypes are not diagnosable and efforts to locate specimens at the type localities were unsuccessful. All Tayshaneta species are thoroughly illustrated, diagnosed and keyed. Distribution maps are also provided highlighting areas of taxonomic ambiguity in need of additional sampling.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

A new species of Rhopalosiphum (Hemiptera, Aphididae) on Chusquea tomentosa (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) from Costa Rica
The new species Rhopalosiphum chusqueae Pérez Hidalgo & Villalobos Muller, is described from apterous viviparous females caught on Chusquea tomentosa in Cerro de la Muerte (Costa Rica). The identity of the species is supported both by the morphological features and by a molecular phylogenetic analysis based on a fragment of the mitochondrial DNA containing the 5’ region of the cytochrome c oxidase 1 (COI) and on the nuclear gene coding for the Elongation factor-1 alpha (EF1α). The taxonomic position of the new species is discussed. An identification key to the Aphidinae species living on plants of Bambusoideae (Poaceae) is presented.
["Rhopalosiphum"]

Commensal Leucothoidae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) of the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. Part II: sponge-dwellers
Commensal leucothoid amphipods have been collected from the canals of their sponge hosts throughout the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. Eleven new species are described in the genus Leucothoe with valuable location data and host records. An identification key to sponge-dwelling Leucothoidae of the Ryukyu Archipelago is provided.
["Leucothoidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Cuban Calisto (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae), a review based on morphological and DNA data
The Cuban species of Calisto are reviewed based on the morphology of adult and immature stages, as well as DNA sequences of six genes (COI, EF1α, wingless, GAPDH, RpS5, CAD). A new species, Calisto occulta sp. n., is described from the northeastern Cuban mountains. Calisto smintheus Bates, 1935 and C. bruneri, Michener 1949 are revised and revalidated. A new status, the species level, is proposed for C. brochei, Torre 1973, C. muripetens, Bates 1939 and C. bradleyi, Munroe 1950. The immature stages of C. smintheus, C. brochei, and C. occulta are described for the first time, and those of C. herophile, Hübner 1823 are redescribed. Useful morphological characters for adults are the shape and conspicuousness of androconial patch, the number and relative size of white dots on underside of hindwing, the shape of aedeagus, the shape of digitiform projection of genitalia valve, the shape and relative size of tegumen and uncus, the relative size of female genitalia, the height of sterigmal ring dorsal crown of the latter, and the relative size of corpus bursae and ductus bursae. For the immature stages, the most important characters are the color pattern of head capsule, the number and width of longitudinal lines of body, in the larvae; and the color pattern and the absence or presence of dorsal ridges on the abdomen of pupae. The phylogenetic relationships between the Cuban Calisto species are quite robust and well-supported; however, conflict between mitochondrial and nuclear datasets was detected in C. brochei, C. muripetens and to a lesser degree in C. bradleyi.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Description of the species of Dicoelothorax Ashmead (Chalcidoidea, Eucharitidae) and biology of D. platycerus Ashmead
Descriptions of the adults of the two species of Dicoelothorax Ashmead, D. parviceps and D. platycerus, and the eggs, planidia and pupae of D. platycerus Ashmead are provided. Females of D. platycerus deposit their eggs on the underside of leaves of Pseudabutilon virgatum (Cav.) Fryxell (Malvaceae). The host of D. platycerus is Ectatomma brunneum Smith (Formicidae: Ectatomminae).
["Dicoelothorax"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Taxonomic study on Lathrobium Gravenhorst (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae) from Longwangshan Mountain, East China
Species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst from Longwangshan Mountain, Zhejiang, East China are studied. A total of five species are recognized, among which three are described here as new: L. lingae sp. n., L. longwangshanense sp. n. and L. uncum sp. n., one species was unidentified and the female of L. tianmushanense Watanabe is newly reported. All of these species are illustrated and keyed.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Five new species of the Stenus indubius group (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) from China
Five new species of the Stenus indubius group from China are described: S. cangshanus sp. n. from Yunnan Province, S. hewenjiae sp. n. from Sichuan Province, S. taiyangshanus sp. n. from Guangdong Province, S. yinziweii sp. n. and S. zhaiyanbini sp. n. from Guizhou Province. Diagnostic characters are illustrated and a key to the species of this group from the Chinese mainland is provided.

Orthogonius species and diversity in Thailand (Coleoptera, Caraboidea, Orthogoniini), a result from the TIGER project
The carabid genus Orthogonius MacLeay is treated, based mainly on materials collected in Thailand through the TIGER project (the Thailand Inventory Group for Entomological Research). Among 290 specimens, 20 species are identified in total, 10 of them are new species: O. taghavianae sp. n. (Nakhon Nayok: Khao Yai National Park), O. coomanioides sp. n. (Phetchabun: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park), O. similaris sp. n. (Phetchabun: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park; Loei: Phu Kradueng National Park), O. setosopalpiger sp. n. (Phetchabun: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park), O. gracililamella sp. n. (Loei: Phu Kradueng National Park; Chaiyaphum: Tat Tone National Park), O. pseudochaudoiri sp. n. (Phetchabum: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park; Nakhon Nayok: Khao Yai National Park), O. constrictus sp. n. (Phetchabum: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park), O. pinophilus sp. n. (Phetchabum: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park), O. vari sp. n. (Cambodia: Siem Reap; Thailand: Ubon Ratchathani: Pha Taem National Park; Phetchabun: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park) and O. variabilis sp. n. (Thailand: Phetchabun: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park; Nakhon Nayok: Khao Yai National Park; Phetchabun: Nam Nao National Park; China: Yunnan). In addition, O. mouhoti Chaudoir, 1871 and O. kirirom Tian & Deuve, 2008 are recorded in Thailand for the first time. In total, 30 species of Orthogonius have been recorded from Thailand, indicating that Thailand holds one of the richest Orthogonius faunas in the world. A provisional key to all Thai species is provided. A majority of Thai Orthogonius species are endemic. Among the ten national parks in which orthogonine beetles were collected, Thung Salaeng Luang holds the richest fauna, including 16 species.

Karyotypes of two rare rodents, Hapalomys delacouri and Typhlomys cinereus (Mammalia, Rodentia), from Vietnam
Karyotypes of Hapalomys delacouri (Rodentia, Muridae) and Typhlomys cinereus (Rodentia, Platacanthomyidae) from Vietnam are described for the first time. The diploid karyotype of H. delacouri is 38 (NFa=48), consisting of six pairs of bi-armed and 12 pairs of acrocentric autosomes decreasing in size; plus a large metacentric X chromosome and Y chromosome, also metacentric, that is equal in size to the largest pair of acrocentric autosomes. The newly described karyotype differs significantly from that reported for H. delacouri from northern Thailand. The latter record very likely represents a different species of Hapalomys, possibly the taxon H. pasquieri described from north-central Laos. The diploid karyotype of Typhlomys cinereus is 38 (NF=48), consisting of five pairs of meta- to submetacentric and 14 pairs of acrocentric chromosomes varying in size from large to small; sex chromosomes were not defined.
["karyotypes"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Discovery of the genus Meggoleus Townes, 1971 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Tersilochinae) in Peru, with the description of two new species
The genus Meggoleus Townes, 1971 (Ichneumonidae, Tersilochinae) currently comprises two species, one from Brazil and one from Gabon. The genus is recorded from Peru for the first time, with a range extension of the type species, Meggoleus spirator Townes, 1971, and the discovery of two new species – Meggoleus fuscatus sp. n. and Meggoleus pampahermosensis sp. n. A key to the world’s species is provided.
["Ichneumonidae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies"]

Commensal Leucothoidae (Crustacea, Amphipoda) of the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. Part I: ascidian-dwellers
Commensal leucothoid amphipods have been collected from the branchial chambers of their ascidian hosts throughout the Ryukyu Archipelago, Japan. Seven new species are described in two genera with valuable location data and host records. An identification key to ascidian-dwelling Leucothoidae of the Ryukyu Archipelago is provided.
["Leucothoidae"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A troglomorphic spider from Java (Araneae, Ctenidae, Amauropelma)
A new troglomorphic spider from caves in Central Java, Indonesia, is described and placed in the ctenid genus Amauropelma Raven, Stumkat & Gray, until now containing only species from Queensland, Australia. Only juveniles and mature females of the new species are known. We give our reasons for placing the new species in Amauropelma, discuss conflicting characters, and make predictions about the morphology of the as yet undiscovered male that will test our taxonomic hypothesis. The description includes DNA barcode sequence data.

A conspectus on the Canacidae (Diptera) of Brazil
Species of Canacidae sensu lato of Brazil are reviewed, including the subfamilies Canacinae and Tethininae. Included are seven species in five genera with two species, Nocticanace austra and N. packhamorum, from southern Brazil being newly described. To facilitate identification, we have included keys and diagnose to taxa at all levels.

Revision of Tipula (Yamatotipula) stackelbergi Alexander (Diptera, Tipulidae), and a short discussion on subspecies among crane flies
All available type material of Tipula stackelbergi Alexander, T. usuriensis Alexander and T. subpruinosa Mannheims were examined. Tipula (Yamatotipula) stackelbergi stat. rev. is elevated from a subspecies of T. (Y.) pruinosa Wiedemann to a valid species. Two new synonyms are proposed: Tipula usuriensis syn. n. proved to be a junior synonym of T. (Y.) pruinosa and T. subpruinosa syn. n. a junior synonym of T. (Y.) freyana Lackschewitz. Tipula (Y.) stackelbergi is redescribed, male and female terminalia of T. (Y.) pruinosa are illustrated and discussed. Female terminalia of T. (Y.) freyana are described and illustrated for the first time. A key to both sexes of T. (Y.) stackelbergi and T. (Y.) pruinosa, and a key to females of T. (Y.) chonsaniana, T. (Y.) freyana and T. (Y.) moesta are provided. Subspecies are not uncommon among crane flies, but their ranges and traits are poorly known. An interdisciplinary approach (genetics, ecology, taxonomy) is suggested if subspecific ranks are to be used in tipuloid systematics.
["Palaearctic region"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Review of the Nearctic genus Lacconotus LeConte (Coleoptera, Mycteridae, Eurypinae)
Lacconotus LeConte, the sole Nearctic representative of the eurypine Mycteridae, is revised, based on morphological features of adults. The following syn. n. is proposed: L. pallidus Van Dyke, 1928 = L. pinicola Horn 1879. The former is a light-colored form with a southern California distribution. A subgen. n., Alcconotus, is described for L. pinicola, producing the following comb. n.: Lacconotus (Alcconotus) pinicola (Horn). A lectotype is designated for L. pinicola. A key separating the two subgenera and species is provided, as are photographs and illustrations of salient structures of adults, and maps showing collection localities. Lacconotus punctatus is newly recorded in Alabama, Arkansas, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wisconsin; L. pinicola is newly recorded in Arizona and Utah in the USA, and Baja California Norte in Mexico. Phenology information shows a north-to-south gradation in occurrence time.

Revision of New World Species of the Shore-fly Subgenus Allotrichoma Becker of the Genus Allotrichoma with Description of the Subgenus Neotrichoma (Diptera, Ephydridae, Hecamedini)
The New World species of the subgenera Allotrichoma Becker and Neotrichoma (new subgenus) are revised, including a phylogenetic analysis of the species groups and subgenera within the genus Allotrichoma. For phylogenetic perspective and to document the monophyly of the genus Allotrichoma and its included subgenera and species groups, we also provide a cladistic analysis of genera within the tribe Hecamedini. The ingroup included seven exemplar congeners from within Allotrichoma. Outgroup sampling included exemplars of other genera within Hecamedini and from the putative sister group, Lipochaetini, and to root the analysis, we used an exemplar of the tribe Discocerinini. Analyses with successive weighting and implied weighting recovered a monophyletic Allotrichoma and indicated clades within the genus. Eight new species are described (type locality in parenthesis): A. bifurcatum (Utah. Utah: Lake Shore (40°06.9`N, 111°41.8`W; 1370 m)), A. dynatum (Oregon. Benton: Finley National Wildlife Refuge (44°24.6`N, 123°19.5`W)), A. occidentale (Oregon. Lake: Lakeview (44 km E; Drake Creek; 42°11`N, 119°59.3`W)), A. robustum (California. Kern: Kern River (35°16.1`N, 119°18.4`W)), A. sabroskyi (New Mexico. Sandoval: La Cueva (Junction of Highways 126 and 4; 35°52`N, 106°38.4`W; 2342 m)), A. wallowa (Oregon Baker: Goose Creek (35 km E Baker City; 44°49.2`N, 117°27.79`W; 825 m)), A. baliops (Florida. Monroe: Key West (Willie Ward Park; 24°32.9`N, 81°47.9`W)), and A. insulare (Dominica. Cabrits Swamp (15°35`N, 61°29`W)). Within Allotrichoma, we recognize three subgenera of which one, Neotrichoma (type species: A. atrilabre), is newly described. All known species from the New World are described with an emphasis on structures of the male terminalia, which are fully illustrated. Detailed locality data and distribution maps for the New World species are provided. A lectotype is designated for Discocerina simplex Loew and a neotype is designated for Allotrichoma bezzii Becker. Allotrichoma filiforme Becker, A. trispinum Becker, and A. dahli Beschovski are reported as new synonyms of A. simplex (Loew) and A. yosemite Cresson is a new synonym of A. atrilabre Cresson. We also clarify the status of previously described species, including those with Holarctic distributions. For perspective and to facilitate genus-group and species-group recognition, the tribe Hecamedini is diagnosed and a key to included genera is provided.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Descriptions of a new Brazilian Tacora species and the female of T. saturata, and a key to the species of the genus (Insecta, Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Cicadellini)
Tacora johanni, a new species from Rondônia State, North Brazil, is described and illustrated. The new species can be recognized by the male genital features, especially the subgenital plates with the basal half distinctly expanded and with outer lateral margin round, the long and slender preapical pygofer process, and the styles with apical half strongly curved. Also, the genus is recorded for the first time from Venezuela, based on specimens of T. saturata Young, 1977, while the female of this species (here described in detail for the first time) shows two unusual features of the genitalia. A key to males of all known Tacora species and a map showing the known distribution of the genus are provided.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Banana Cultivation and Research", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

First record of the subgenus Damaeus (Paradamaeus) Bulanova-Zachvatkina (Oribatida, Damaeidae) from China, with description of a new species
A new species Damaeus (Paradamaeus) yushuensis sp. n. is described from Three Rivers’ Headwaters National Natural Reserve, Qinghai province, China. This is the first record of this subgenus in China. A key is given to distinguish all species of the genus.
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Study of Mite Species"]

Further records of non-cryptic New Zealand earthworms
Current descriptions add natives Aporodrilus aotea sp. n., A. ponga sp. n. and Notoscolex repanga sp. n., plus new exotic records to the numbers of megadrile earthworms known from New Zealand, which are now raised from 193 to 222 species in five families, viz: Acanthodrilidae, Octochaetidae and Megascolecidae, plus Lumbricidae and Glossoscolecidae for exotics. Overlooked spermathecal diverticula have been located for Notoscolex equestris Benham, 1942 and for Megascolex animae Lee, 1959 and non-tubular prostrates were misconstrued as tubular in Megascolides tasmani Lee, 1959. Of these latter three species, a lectotype is designated for N. equestris and holotypes of the other two are briefly redescribed. Whereas M. tasmani now belongs in Notoscolex Fletcher, 1887 and M. animae belongs in Anisochaeta Beddard, 1890, further lack of dorsal pores in N. equestris as with Notoscolex esculentus (Benham, 1904) and N. mortenseni (Michaelsen, 1924) newly qualifies all three as additional combs. novae in primarily Tasmanian genus Aporodrilus Blakemore, 2000.
["Eco-taxonomy"]

A new horsehair worm, Chordodes formosanus sp. n. (Nematomorpha, Gordiida) from Hierodula mantids of Taiwan and Japan with redescription of a closely related species, Chordodes japonensis
A new species of horsehair worm, Chordodes formosanus sp. n., is described and compared to a closely related species, C. japonensis. Although both species possess the same six cuticular structures of areoles on the surface, the significantly longer filaments on the female crowned areoles can be used as diagnostic characters for the new species. The different taxonomic status of these two species was also confirmed after analyzing the partial cytochrome oxidase subunit I sequence, and the mantid hosts, which are respectively limited to the genus Tenodera for C. japonensis and Hierodula for C. formosanus sp. n. In addition, the immature stages of eggs and larvae of the new species are also described and discussed in detail.
["Nematomorpha"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

New species of the Eastern Hemisphere genera Afroheriades and Noteriades (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae), with keys to species of the former
New species of the rarely encountered megachilid genera Afroheriades Peters from South Africa, A. hyalinus sp. n., and Noteriades Cockerell from Myanmar and Thailand, N. jenniferae sp. n. and N. spinosus sp. n., are described and illustrated. The species are described to make their names available for forthcoming publications on phylogenetic studies of the family Megachilidae. Taxonomic notes and a comparative diagnosis for each genus are presented. Afroheriades hennigi (Peters) and A. reicherti (Brauns) are new junior synonyms of A. dolichocephalus (Friese). A key to the known species of Afroheriades is provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Euglossa williamsi, a new species of orchid bee from the Amazon Basin of Ecuador and Peru, with notes on its taxonomic association and biogeography (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Euglossawilliamsi sp. n. is here described from the lowland Amazonianregion in Ecuador and Peru, and as part of a small species assemblage within Euglossa consisting of E. dodsoni Moure and E. obtusa Dressler. An identification key to the males of the group is provided plus detailed figures of the new species and representative illustrations for the others. A brief discussion of the taxonomic and biogeographical implications of the new species is provided. New records in Honduras and Nicaragua are provided for the related E. dodsoni.

Revision of the world species of Zambion (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Tryphoninae)
The world species of Zambion Kasparyan (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Tryphoninae) are revised including re-descriptions of Z. monodon Kasparyan and Z. hirtum Delobel. Five new species are described: Z. kasparyani sp. n., Z. rogeri sp. n., Z. eileenae sp. n., Z. wahli sp. n. and Z. broadi sp. n. A key to species is provided. The genus is endemic to Africa (Angola to Kenya) and is one of only three genera of the tribe Tryphonini recorded from the Afrotropical region.
["Zambion"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Sinosciapus from Taiwan with description of a new species (Diptera, Dolichopodidae)
Sinosciapus liuae sp. n. is newly described from Taiwan. The genus Sinosciapus is discussed and a key to the three known Oriental species is provided.

A new genus and species of termites (Isoptera, Termitidae, Nasutitermitinae) from the rainforest
of northern Peru
A new genus and species of nasutitermitine termites are described and illustrated, based on soldier and worker characters. Sinqasapatermes gen. n., can be distinguished from all other nasutitermitine genera by its singular worker gut coiling and enteric valve characters: distal margin of the enteric valve not everted into the paunch but bending towards the ileum, that is, directed against the flow of food; enteric valve armature with one ring of six equal subtriangularly-shaped ridges, each ridge with short spines on the entire surface; enteric valve armature situated on external face of cone, facing the internal ileum wall; enteric valve seating tri-lobed and separated from remaining portion of the paunch; paunch subdivided. Sinqasapatermes sachae sp. n., was collected on a tree in a very narrow flattened tunnel that was well concealed beneath lichens in a northern Peru rainforest (Arcadia, Loreto Province).

New records of water mites of the family Sperchontidae Thor; 1900 from China (Acari, Hydrachnidia), with descriptions of two new species
Five species of water mites of the family Sperchontidae Thor, 1900 are reported from China. Two of them are new to science, Sperchon (Sperchon) orbipatella sp.n. and S. (Sperchon) urumqiensis sp. n., and the other three are new to China, i.e., Sperchon (Palpisperchon) nikkoensis Imamura, 1976, S. (Sperchon) sounkyo Imamura, 1954 and Sperchonopsis (Sperchonopsella) whiteshellensis Conroy, 1991. The first descriptions of the female of S. nikkoensis and the male of S. sounkyo are also given. The subgenus Sperchonopsella Conroy is new to the fauna of China.
["Hydrachnidia"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

A Revision of the Stylasteridae (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa, Filifera) from Alaska and Adjacent Waters
The stylasterid fauna of Alaska is revised, consisting of the description or redescription and illustration of 21 species, one additional subspecies, and a geographically adjacent species: Stylaster venustus. Six new species and one new subspecies are described: Errinopora fisheri, E. undulata, E. disticha, E. dichotoma, Stylaster crassiseptum, S. repandus, and Stylaster parageus columbiensis. Four subspecies are raised to species rank: Stylaster leptostylus, S. trachystomus, S. parageus, and Distichopora japonica, and five species and one subspecies were synonymized. A dichotomous key to the Errinopora species and tabular keys to the Errinopora and Alaskan Stylaster species are provided. The focus of the study was on the stylasterids from Alaska, primarily those from the rich Aleutian Islands, but also including records from British Columbia. This is the first revisionary work on this fauna since the seminal report by Fisher in 1938.
["Stylasteridae"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Biology of Blepharida-group flea beetles with first notes on natural history of Podontia congregata Baly, 1865 an endemic flea beetle from southern India (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini)
The biology, host plants, and pest status of Podontia Dalman, 1824 species are reviewed. Natural history of Podontia congregata Baly, 1865 a flea beetle endemic to southern India, is reported for the first time. It is distributed from the Western Ghats Mountains westward to the plains. Clusiaceae is reported as a new host plant family for Blepharida-group species, with Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) N. Robson (Clusiaceae) as the host plant for P. congregata. Pentatomid bugs attack the larvae but not eggs, pupae, or adults. A new egg parasitoid species, Ooencyrtus keralensis Hayat and Prathapan, 2010 (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), was discovered. Aspects of P. congregata host selection, life cycle, and larval fecal defenses are consistent with its inclusion in the Blepharida-genus group.
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies", "Phytochemical compounds biological activities"]

Hispines (Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae) of La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica
Survey work from 1992–2001 identified 139 species of hispines at the lowland part of La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. The tribe Cephaloleiini was the most speciose with 58 species (41.7%) followed by the Chalepini with 55 (39.5%). The fauna is most closely related to that in South America but with some genera which are more speciose in the Nearctic Region. Plant associations are known for 88 (63.3%) of the species but many of these are merely collecting records, not host plant associations. The first plant associations are reported for Alurnus ornatus, A. salvini, and Acentroptera nevermanni.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Rhyparida foaensis (Jolivet, Verma & Mille, 2007), comb. n. (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) and implications for the colonization of New Caledonia
The study of external morphology of the New Caledonian leaf beetle Dematochroma foaensis Jolivet, Verma & Mille (Chrysomelidae, Eumolpinae, Colaspoidini) substantiates its new combination into the genus Rhyparida Baly (Chrysomelidae, Eumolpinae, Nodinini). The species is redescribed here to highlight characters important for suprageneric diagnosis. This is the second species of Nodinini found in New Caledonia, otherwise rich in species of Colaspoidini, raising questions about the paucity of Rhyparida and this tribe in New Caledonian fauna, when they are dominant in surrounding archipelagoes, and very rich in potential source areas such as Australia and New Guinea. Some alternative explanations for this pattern are advanced, serving as alternative hypotheses until our knowledge on the ecology of these species improves or supported phylogenetic scenarios become available for this group.
["Rhyparida"]

Altitudinal and temporal distribution of Plagiometriona Spaeth, 1899 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae) in a tropical forest in southeast Brazil
Species richness and abundance of seven Plagiometriona species on their host plants were studied along a single trail in the mountainous Serra dos Órgãos National Park in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Six sites were chosen along an altitudinal gradient ranging from 1300 m to 2050 m, where all Solanaceae host plants were inspected in search of adults every two months from June 2006 to June 2007. Species richness did not vary clearly with altitude, but abundance increased up to 1800 m, where the highest mean host plant density was found, and abruptly decreased at the last elevational site. Most species showed a restricted distribution and just one occurred across the entire gradient. For at least four species, altitudinal distribution seems to be strongly related to host plant availability, while for the others it is difficult to access which factors are decisive, due to their low numbers. Only in October all species were found in the field, although February was the month with the highest total abundance. Over the course of the study, the greatest abundances were recorded from October to February, comprehending the hottest and rainiest months, and the lowest abundances were found from June to August, which include the coldest and driest months. Thus, species seasonal distribution, supported by other studies in the same area, seems to be related to the local climate.
["Species richness"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Body size of Chrysomelidae (Coleoptera, Insecta) in areas with different levels of conservation in South Brazil
Body size is correlated with many species traits such as morphology, physiology, life history and abundance as well; it is one of the most discussed topics in macroecological studies. The aim of this paper was to analyze the body size distribution of Chrysomelidae, caught with Malaise traps during two years in four areas with different levels of conservation in the Araucaria Forest, Paraná, Brazil, determining if body size is a good predictor of abundance, and if body size could be used to indicate environmental quality. Body size was considered the total length of the specimen from the anterior region of head to the apex of abdomen/elytron. Measurements were taken for up to ten specimens of each species for each area and for all specimens of those species represented by fewer than ten individuals. The highest abundance and richness of Chrysomelidae were obtained in the lowest body size classes. This herbivorous group showed a trend toward a decrease in body size with increasing abundance, but body size was not a good predictor of its abundance. There was a trend toward a decrease in body size from the less to the most conserved areas; however, the definition of a pattern in successional areas not seems to be entirely clear.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

The genus Unixenus Jones, 1944 (Diplopoda, Penicillata, Polyxenida) in Australia
The penicillate genus Unixenus Jones, 1944 is widespread, with species found in Africa, Madagascar, India and Australia. Each of the two Australian species was originally described from single samples from Western Australia. In this study, collections of Penicillata from museums in all states of Australia were examined to provide further details of the two described species, to revise the diagnoses for both the genus and the species, and to better understand the distribution of the two species in Australia. In addition, two new species Unixenus karajinensis sp. n. and Unixenus corticolus sp. n. are described.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Two remarkable new species of Penicillata (Diplopoda, Polyxenida) from Table Mountain National Park
(Cape Town, South Africa)
Two new species of the families Polyxenidae and Synxenidae, are described from Table Mountain National Park, South Africa. Propolyxenus squamatus sp. n. (Polyxenidae) has tergites I–X mostly covered by scale–shaped trichomes directed caudally, a character previously known only in Synxenidae. The structure of scale–shaped dorsal trichomes is different to that of the scales in Phryssonotus and Condexenus species. Phryssonotus brevicapensis sp. n. (Synxenidae) is the only known species of the genus Phryssonotus11 tergites, (including collum and telson) and 15 pairs of legs, as in Condexenus biramipalpus Nguyen Duy–Jacquemin, 2006. These two species therefore appear to occupy an intermediate position between Phryssonotus (12 tergites) and Polyxenoidea (maximum of 11 tergites).

A revision of the millipede genus Riukiupeltis Verhoeff, 1939 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae), with comments on the status of related species
The East Asian millipede genus Riukiupeltis Verhoeff, 1939 is revised, and is restricted to a single species, R. jamashinai Verhoeff, 1939. Examination of the type specimens and freshly collected material from the Ryukyu Archipelago and Vietnam show that both subsequently allocated species, Riukiupeltis uenoi Murakami, 1975, and R. falcatus (originally Haplogonosoma falcatum Attems, 1953, reallocated by Jeekel 1968), do not belong to this genus; moreover, they are not even congeneric with each other. According to our morphological observations, including the gonopods, R. uenoi is closer to the widespread Chamberlinius hualienensis Wang, 1956, hence we propose the new combination Ch. uenoi (Murakami, 1975), comb. n. Riukiupeltis falcatus, on the other hand, represents a separate, as yet monotypic, genus Simplogonomorpha gen. n., distinct both from Haplogonosoma Brölemann, 1916 sensu Golovatch et al. (1995), and from Verhoeff’s original Riukiupeltis. Additionally, Simplogonomorpha falcata (Attems, 1953), comb. n is re-described here based on fresh material from Vietnam. A key and colour habitus-illustrations to all three species are also provided here.

On some surface structures of potential taxonomic importance in families of the suborders Polydesmidea and Dalodesmidea (Polydesmida, Diplopoda)
Surface structures have rarely been the subject of a comprehensive study in Polydesmida despite their tremendous variety within this order. A number of these peripheral structures are here studied in most families of the suborders Polydesmidea and Dalodesmidea (sensu Hoffman 1980), using scanning electron microscopy. An illustrated description of the surface sculpture of the prozonite, the limbus and the intercalary cuticular micro-scutes on the metazonite is given for the first time for the studied families, together with an account of some other poorly known surface structures. Taken together, these characters allow us to recognize two main groupings of families. The families Ammodesmidae, Cryptodesmidae, Cyrtodesmidae, Haplodesmidae, Oniscodesmidae and Pyrgodesmidae have knobs on the posterior part of the prozonites, a toothed to lobed limbus, and no micro-scutes on the metazonites, wheras the families Fuhrmannodesmidae, Polydesmidae, Dalodesmidae, Macrosternodesmidae, Nearctodesmidae, Opisotretidae and Trichopolydesmidae have no knobs on the posterior part of the prozonites, a spiky or reduced limbus, and intercalary micro-scutes on the metazonites. The results are complemented with literature records and compared with current taxonomic and phylogenetic interpretations of the group.
["surface microsculpture"]

New genus and species of flea beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae, Alticini) from Puerto Rico, with comments on flea beetle diversity in the West Indies and a key to the West Indian Monoplatini genera
A new genus (Borinken) and five new species (Borinken elyunque, Distigmoptera chamorrae, Kiskeya elyunque, Ulrica eltoro, and U. iviei) from Puerto Rico are described and illustrated. A key to all West Indian Monoplatini genera is provided, as are keys to all species of Kiskeya and to the species of Ulrica from Puerto Rico. A list of the flea beetle genera, along with the number of species and some of the faunal features is presented and discussed for the West Indies.

Pachybrachis sassii, a new species from the Mediterranean Giglio Island (Italy) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Cryptocephalinae)
Pachybrachis sassii, new species is described from Giglio Island, of the Tuscan Archipelago (Italy). The new species belongs to the nominotypical subgenus and is closely related to P. salfii Burlini, 1957, from which it differs in the shape of the median lobe of the aedeagus and in the pattern of the yellow raised spots on the elytra and pronotum. Ecological observations are made. The neotype of P. salfii from Colloreto, Monte Pollino (Italy) is designated.
["Entomology"]

Review of subtribe Singilina Jeannel, 1949, of the Middle East and Central Asia (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini)
Species of the genus Singilis Rambur, 1837 (Phloeozeteus Peyron, 1856, syn. n., Agatus Motschulsky, 1845, syn. n.), occurring in the Middle East and Central Asia are reviewed, with 24 species now recognized in the region, including ten species described as new: S. makarovi sp. n. (Tajikistan), S. jedlickai sp. n. (Afghanistan), S. kolesnichenkoi sp. n. (Iran), S. kabakovi sp. n. (Afghanistan, Iran), S. timuri sp. n. (Uzbekistan), S. klimenkoi sp. n. (Iran), S. saeedi sp. n. (Iran), S. felixi sp. n. (UAE), S. kryzhanovskii sp. n. (Iran, Turkmenistan), and S. timidus sp. n. (Iran); S. libani (Sahlberg, 1913) is recognized as a valid species; and S. solskyi nom. n. is proposed as a replacement name for Agatus bicolor (Solsky, 1874, not Rambur, 1837), now placed in Singilis as junior homonym. New synonymies include: Singilis cingulatus (Gebler, 1843) = Singilis jakeschi Jedlička, 1967, syn. n.; S. mesopotamicus Pic, 1901 = Singilis apicalis Jedlička, 1956, syn. n. A key to species is provided. Habitus and aedeagal illustrations are provided for all species. Distributional data include many new country records.

At the lower size limit for tetrapods, two new species of the miniaturized frog genus Paedophryne (Anura, Microhylidae)
I describe two new species in the miniaturized microhylid frog genus Paedophryne from forests in southeastern Papua New Guinea. The first species is described on the basis of two specimens and exhibits female snout-vent length of 8.5–9.0 mm (no males known), whereas that of the second species, described on the basis of 12 specimens, is 8.8–9.3 mm, with males 8.1–8.9 mm. These frogs are smaller than the other two diminutive species described when the genus was recently erected, and they represent what are currently the smallest known species of tetrapods. The two species replace each other elevationally on the same mountain massif and occur in relative geographic proximity to the other named species of the genus. Females of both species contain only two enlarged ova, suggesting that they also possess clutch sizes at the extreme lower end of variation in frogs. All species of Paedophryne inhabit leaf litter, as seen for most other miniaturized anurans.
["clutch size"]

Two new species of Tovlinius Zaitzev, from China, with a key to the genera of Bombyliinae from China and a second key to the world species (Diptera, Bombyliidae, Bombyliinae, Bombyliini)
The genus Tovlinius Zaitzev is a Palaearctic genus with just one previously described species, T. albissimus Zaitzev. Tovlinius is here recorded from China for the first time, and two new species T. pyramidatus sp. n. and T. turriformis sp. n. are described and illustrated. A key to the genera of Bombyliinae from China and a second key to the World species of Tovlinius are also presented herein.

Glenea coomani Pic, 1926 and its related species of South China with description of a new species
Glenea coomani Pic, 1926 distributed in Vietnam, Laos and China is redescribed, and its sibling species, G. neohumerosa sp. n. is described from China (Guangxi, Hainan and Fujian) and North Vietnam. They are separated from each other by differences in genitalia, and apical teeth and maculae of elytra. Another four related species and one subspecies are illustrated with short notes and new localities, and the lectotype and paralectotype of Glenea tonkinea Aurivillius, 1925 are designated. A key to the related species is presented.
["Glenea"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Revision of the pseudo-orbweavers of the genus Fecenia Simon, 1887 (Araneae, Psechridae), with emphasis on their pre-epigyne
The present paper provides a taxonomic revision of the genus Fecenia with emphasis on the characteristics of the pre-epigynes which are integrated for the first time into an identification key. As a result, one species is revalidated, F. protensa Thorell, 1891, stat. n., and two new junior synonyms for F. protensa are recognised: F. sumatrana Kulczyński, 1908, syn. n. and F. nicobarensis (Tikader, 1977), syn. n. New records are reported: F. ochracea (Doleschall, 1859) from Malaysian Borneo, F. macilenta (Simon, 1885) from Sumatra, Indonesia, F. protensa from Thailand and Malaysia, F. travancoria Pocock, 1899 from Sri Lanka and Thailand, and F. cylindrata Thorell, 1895 from Thailand and Laos. Additional information on the biology of Fecenia is provided and the validity of characters for identifying Fecenia species is discussed.

First report of the genus Kisaura Ross (Trichoptera, Philopotamidae) from India with the description
of six new species
The genus Kisaura Ross, 1956 (Trichoptera, Philopotamidae, Philopotaminae) is reported from India the first time. Six new species are described and illustrated: K. elongata sp. n., K. eloct sp. n., K. clavata sp. n., K. gangtokensis sp. n., K. truncata sp. n., all from Gangtok (Sikkim) and K. himachalica sp. n. from Barot (Himachal Pradesh). Male genitalia of this genus are distinguishable from those of other genera of the family by the pair of long lateral processes of tergum X, the well-developed mesoventral plates between two segments of the inferior appendages, and by the brush-like row of dark setae on the inner surfaces of the terminal segments (harpago) of the inferior appendages.

A new species of Urophora Robineau-Desvoidiy, 1830 (Diptera, Tephritidae) from Iran
Urophora merzi sp. n. reared from flower heads of Centaurea behen Linnaeus is described from Iran. It is similar to U. campestris, U. sachalinensis, U. stylata, U. tsoii and U. vera in wing pattern with 3 well developed crossbands and indistinct subbasal crossband, differing in aculeus tip with two pairs of diminished preapical steps and different host plants.
["Tephritidae"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies"]

A taxonomic study on semifumata species-group of Fissocantharis Pic, with description of six new species from China and Myanmar (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
The cantharid Fissocantharis semifumata species-group is reviewed. F. semifumata (Fairmaire, 1889) is redescribed and illustrated. The type series of F. fissa (Wittmer, 1997) is shown to consist of 3 species and clarified, except the holotype, the two paratypes become invalid. F. grahami (Wittmer, 1997) is attributed to this species group. Six new species are described and illustrated, Fissocanthais yui sp. n. (CHINA: Yunnan), F. semimetallica sp. n. (CHINA: Yunnan; MYANMAR: Kachin), F. bicolorata sp. n. (CHINA: Sichuan), F. maculiceps sp. n. (CHINA: Gansu), F. bimaculata sp. n. (CHINA: Sichuan) and F. flava sp. n. (CHINA: Sichuan, Guizhou). The number of species in the F. semifumata species-group is increased from 4 to 11, and a key to all species is provided.

New species of Homidia (Collembola, Entomobryidae) from eastern China with description of the first instar larvae
Morphology of the first instar larvae of Collembola has considerably taxonomical and phylogenetic significance. We describe the first instar larvae for the first time in Homidia. External morphology of first instar larvae and adults of Homidia jordanai sp. n. is described based on observations under light and scanning electron microscopes. Most organs of adults bear considerably more setae than the first instar larvae; in addition, first instar larval Homidia lack labial seta R, seta on tenaculum, mucronal spine, and dental spines. The new species is characterized by weakly pigmented body, long antennae subequal to body in length, 1+1 inner macrochaetae on Abd. III, few inner macrochaetae on posterior Abd. IV, and spiny and short seta pi on dental base. Differences between new species and other two similar ones, taxonomical significance of the first instar larvae and the position of Homidia are also discussed.

Microgloma Sanders & Allen, 1973 (Nuculanidae) and Pristigloma Dall, 1900 (Pristiglomidae) (Pelecypoda) in the Campos Basin of Brazil
As a secondary result of oil prospecting in Brazil, samples from the Campos Basin continental slope became available. In these samples, specimens of the genera Microgloma Sanders & Allen, 1973 and Pristigloma Dall, 1900 were found. This contribution provides the southernmost record of the genus Microgloma, the first record of M. mirmidina (Dautzenberg & Fischer 1897) from the western Atlantic, the descriptions of M. macaron sp. n. and M. nhanduti sp. n. as new species, and the shallowest record of Pristigloma alba Sanders & Allen 1973.
["Pristiglomidae"]

First records of Synoeca septentrionalis Richards, 1978 (Hymenoptera, Vespidae, Epiponini) in the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest
Nests of Synoeca septentrionalis were collected in two Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest localities (Itabuna and Santa Terezinha, in the state of Bahia and Alfredo Chaves in the state of Espírito Santo). S. septentrionalis was previously recorded only from Central America and northwestern South America. This finding extends its geographical distribution to Northeast and Southeast regions of Brazil, and represents the first record for S. septentrionalis in the Brazilian Atlantic Rain forest, raising to three the number of Synoeca species known from Bahia State.
["wasps"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Elmidae (Coleoptera, Byrrhoidea) larvae in the state of São Paulo, Brazil: Identification key, new records
and distribution
The family Elmidae Curtis, 1830 has cosmopolitan distribution and most species inhabit riffles on streams and rivers, hence the name “riffle beetle”. In recent years, this family has been featured in papers addressing the assessment and environmental monitoring of water quality. In Brazil, studies on the family remain scarce and the present investigation is a pioneering study in the state of São Paulo. This study aims to propose a taxonomic key for the identification of larvae of Elmidae genera known to occur in the State, as well as to report new records and the distribution of these genera. The material analyzed was collected from various locations in each of 15 drainage basins from 2005 to 2010. The identification key includes 12 genera (Austrolimnius Carter & Zeck, 1929, Heterelmis Sharp, 1882, Hexacylloepus Hinton, 1940, Hexanchorus Sharp, 1882, Huleechius Brown, 1981, Macrelmis Motschulsky, 1859, Microcylloepus Hinton, 1935, Neoelmis Musgrave, 1935, Phanocerus Sharp, 1882, Potamophilops Grouvelle, 1896, Stegoelmis Hinton, 1939 and Xenelmis Hinton, 1936) known in Brazil as well as three morphotypes designated herein as Genus A, Genus M and Genus X. The genus Hexanchorus is recorded for the first time in the state of São Paulo.
["riffle beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology"]

Review of the Capitellidae (Annelida, Polychaeta) from the Eastern Tropical Pacific region, with notes on selected species
The main objective of this work is to contribute to the taxonomic knowledge of the species of Capitellidae reported for the Eastern Tropical Pacific. This catalogue includes the original name of each species, new names, synonymies, type localities, the museum or institution where the type material is deposited, revision of the material reported for the region by different authors, new examined material, previous reports from other regions of the world, and comments on systematics and distributions. The catalogue lists 43 species in 19 genera. Of these, 6 species were erroneously recorded for the region (Decamastus gracilis Hartman, 1963; D. nudus Thomassin, 1970; Mastobranchus variabilis Edwing, 1984; Notomastus aberans Day, 1957; N. americanus Day, 1973; N. latericeus Sars, 1851) and 5 species are found here to be questionable records for the Eastern Tropical Pacific (Capitella capitata (Fabricius, 1780); Dasybranchus glabrus Moore, 1909; D. lumbricoides Grube, 1878; Notomastus lineatus Claparède, 1870 and N. tenuis Moore, 1909).
["Capitellidae"]

Sphincterochilidae from Tunisia, with a note on the subgenus Rima Pallary, 1910 (Gastropoda, Pulmonata)
In order to establish an updated checklist of terrestrial gastropod from Tunisia, a revision of the species of Sphincterochilidae is presented, using bibliographic and museum records and the results of our own field work. As a result, only two species, Sphincterochila candidissima and S. tunetana, are accepted to occur in Tunisia, and their type specimens are illustrated. The study of the morphological characters of the genital organs of both species clarified their subgeneric affiliation. Comparison of S. tunetana with S. cariosa from Lebanon showed that the first has to be classified within the subgenus Albea, and the latter within Sphincterochila s. str.; the subgenus Rima Pallary, 1910 remains in the synonymy of Sphincterochila s. str. Bibliographic records of S. baetica and S. otthiana from Tunisia could not be confirmed, the latter probably lives close to the border with Algeria.
["Sphincterochila candidissima"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Archaeological and Historical Studies"]

Review of the sawfly genus Empria (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae) in Japan
The following eleven Empria species are reported from Japan: E.candidata (Fallén, 1808), E.japonica Heidemaa & Prous, 2011, E.liturata (Gmelin, 1790), E. loktini Ermolenko, 1971, E.plana (Jakowlew, 1891), E.quadrimaculata Takeuchi, 1952, E.rubicola Ermolenko, 1971, E.tridens (Konow, 1896), E.tridentis Lee & Ryu, 1996, E. honshuana Prous & Heidemaa, sp. n., and E.takeuchii Prous & Heidemaa, sp. n. The lectotypes of Poecilosoma pallipes Matsumura, 1912, Empria itelmena Malaise, 1931, Tenthredo candidata Fallén, 1808, and Tenthredo (Poecilostoma) hybrida Erichson, 1851 are designated. Empria itelmena Malaise, 1931, syn. n. is synonymized with E.plana (Jakowlew, 1891). Poecilosoma pallipes Matsumura, 1912, previously assigned to Empria, is transferred to Monsoma, creating Monsoma pallipes (Matsumura, 1912), comb.n. Results of phylogenetic analyses using mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (ITS1 and ITS2) sequences are also provided.
["Sawflies"]

Sphaerosyllis levantina sp. n. (Annelida) from the eastern Mediterranean, with notes on character variation in Sphaerosyllis hystrix Claparède, 1863
Examination of polychaete specimens from Haifa Bay (Israel, eastern Mediterranean Sea) revealed several individuals exhibiting morphological characteristics similar to Sphaerosyllis hystrix Claparède, 1863. A detailed morphometrical analysis of the Israeli specimens in comparison to specimens of S. hystrix and S. boeroi Musco, Çinar & Giangrande, 2005 supported the description of the former as a new species, S. levantina sp. n. Individuals of S. hystrix formed a very heterogeneous group with strong character variations in the analysis and the presumed cosmopolitan distribution of the species is discussed based on literature records.
["Polychaetes"]

An account of the taxonomy and distribution of Syllidae (Annelida, Polychaetes) in the eastern Mediterranean, with notes on the genus Prosphaerosyllis San Martín, 1984 in the Mediterranean
The syllid fauna of three locations in Crete and Israel (eastern Mediterranean Sea) was studied, yielding 82 syllid species, many of which were found for the first time in the respective areas: Seventeen species were recorded for the first time on the Israeli coasts and 20 in Greek waters. Perkinsyllis augeneri (Hartmann-Schröder, 1979) and Prosphaerosyllis chauseyensis Olivier et al., 2011 are new records for the Mediterranean Sea. Detailed information is given on the morphology, ecology and distribution of the species recorded for the first time in the studied areas. In addition, an update on the distribution of the genus Prosphaerosyllis San Martín, 1984 in the Mediterranean is given and an identification key to the Mediterranean species is provided.
["Polychaetes"]

Bush Blitz aids description of three new species and a new genus of Australian beeflies (Diptera, Bombyliidae, Exoprosopini)
Bush Blitz is a three-year multimillion dollar program to document the plants and animals in hundreds of properties across Australia’s National Reserve System. The core focus is on nature discovery – identifying and describing new species of plants and animals. The Bush Blitz program has enabled the collection and description of beeflies (Diptera, Bombyliidae) from surveys in Western Australia and Queensland. Three new species of Australian beeflies belonging to the Exoprosopini are described; Palirika mackenziei Lambkin, sp. n., Palirika culgoafloodplainensis Lambkin, sp. n., and Larrpana bushblitz Lambkin, sp. n. Phylogenetic analysis of 40 Australian exoprosopine species belonging to the Balaana generic-group Lambkin & Yeates, 2003 supports the placement of the three new species into existing genera, and the erection and description of the new genus Ngalki Lambkin, gen. n. for Ngalki trigonium (Lambkin & Yeates, 2003), comb. n. Revised keys are provided for the genera of the Australian Balaana genus-group and the species of Palirika Lambkin & Yeates, 2003 and Larrpana Lambkin & Yeates, 2003. With the description of the three new species and the transferral of Munjua trigona Lambkin & Yeates, 2003 into the new genus Ngalki Lambkin, gen. n., three genera are rediagnosed; Munjua Lambkin & Yeates, 2003, Palirika and Larrpana.
["Ngalki"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

The Lepidoptera of White Sands National Monument, Otero County, New Mexico, USA 4. A new species of Schinia Hübner, 1818 (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Heliothinae)
In 2006 the U.S. National Park Service initiated a long term study of the Lepidoptera at White Sands National Monument, Otero County, New Mexico. Schinia poguei sp. n., described here, was discovered in 2007, the second year of the study. The male and female adult moths and genitalia are illustrated.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

The Lepidoptera of White Sands National Monument, Otero County, New Mexico, USA 3. A new species of Aleptina Dyar, 1902 (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Amphipyrinae, Psaphidini)
In 2006 the US National Park Service initiated a long-term study of the Lepidoptera at White Sands National Monument, Otero County, New Mexico. Aleptina arenaria sp. n., described here, was discovered in 2008, the second year of the study. The adult moths and male and female genitalia are illustrated.
["Tularosa Basin"]

A new Zanclognatha from eastern North America and a preliminary key to the larvae of the genus (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Herminiinae)
The adult of a widespread but previously undescribed species of Zanclognatha Lederer is described from eastern North America. Images of the mature larva and life history data for Zanclognatha dentate sp. n. are included, along with a preliminary key to the larvae of ten eastern North American Zanclognatha species.
["detritus feeding"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Generic placement of the Neotropical species of “Phragmatobia” (Erebidae, Arctiinae), with a remarkable matrivorous species from the Peruvian Andes
Phragmatobia Stephens is briefly reviewed and a diagnosis is provided. The South American species currently placed in Phragmatobia Stephens are revised to two new genera, Andesobia Schmidt and De Freina, gen. n., and Patagobia Schmidt and De Freina, gen. n. (subtribe Spilosomina). Both Andesobia and Patagobia exhibit adaptations to high altitude habitats, including micropterous females in Andesobia (Patagobia females are unknown) and diurnal flight of males. The adults, immature stages, and mating behaviour of Andesobia jelskii (Oberthür, 1881) are described. Males of A. jelskii enter the female cocoon to mate, and the micropterous, flightless females remain in the cocoon following oviposition where newly hatched larvae feed initially on the female’s body.Four species are included in Andesobia, A. jelskii comb. n. (= Paracles imitatrix Rothschild, 1922, syn. n.), A. flavata (Hampson, 1901), comb. n., A. boliviana (Gaede, 1923), comb. n. (=Turuptiana flavescens Rothschild, 1933, syn. n.), and A. sanguinea (Hampson, 1907), comb. n. Patagobia includes only P. thursbyi (Rothschild, 1910), comb. n., and P. thursbyi pluto Toulgoët is relegated to its synonymy. Patagobia shows affinities to Phaos Walker, 1855 of Australia, Metacrias Meyrick, 1886 of New Zealand, and Pseudophragmatobia Krüger, 2009 of South Africa, suggesting a common ancestry of circumantarctic origin. Phragmatobia karsholti Toulgoët, 1991 is transferred to Venedictoffia Toulgoët, comb. n., an unrelated genus that is removed from subtribe Arctiina and provisionally placed in the Phaegopterina. Phragmatobia oberthueri Rothschild, 1910, described from Tibet, is a synonym of Lachana alpherakii (Grum-Grzhimailo, 1891) [Erebidae: Lymantriinae], syn. n., comb. n.
["Microptery"]

A new species of Herpetogramma (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Spilomelinae) from eastern North America
Herpetogramma sphingealis sp. n., a new species of Crambidae (Lepidoptera), is described from Québec, Canada. The species is included in the genus Herpetogramma Led., 1863, a genus in the subfamily Spilomelinae. Adults and genitalia of this species are described and illustrated, as well as those of H. aeglealis (Walker, 1859) and H. thestealis (Walker, 1859), and adults of the semi-melanic form of H. aeglealis are illustrated.

Osmia species (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae) from the southeastern United States with modified facial hairs: taxonomy, host plants, and conservation status
We describe females and males of Osmia (Melanosmia) calaminthae sp. n., an apparent floral specialist on Calamintha ashei (Lamiaceae), and provide observations on the behavior of female bees on flowers of this plant. We also provide diagnostic information for Osmia (Diceratosmia) conjunctoides Robertson, stat. n., and synonymize O. (Diceratosmia) subfasciata miamiensis Mitchell with O. conjunctoides syn. n. Females of both O. calaminthae and O. conjunctoides are unique among North American Osmia forshort, erect, simple facial hairs, which are apparent adaptations for collecting pollen from nototribic flowers. Osmia calaminthae is currently only known from sandy scrub at four nearby sites in the southern Lake Wales Ridge in Highlands County, Florida, USA, while O. conjunctoides is known from limited but widespread sites in the southeastern USA. We discuss the conservation status of both species based on known or speculated floral associates and distributions.

Webspinners in Early Eocene amber from western India (Insecta, Embiodea)
The family Scelembiidae (Neoembiodea: Embiomorpha: Archembioidea) is recorded from Asia for the first time, based on two individuals preserved in Early Eocene amber from the Cambay Basin, western India. Kumarembia hurleyi Engel & Grimaldi, gen. n. et sp. n., is described, figured, and distinguished from other archembioid genera. The genus shares male genitalic features with scelembiids, otherwise known from South America and Africa.
["Polyneoptera"]

Hospitalitermes krishnai, a new nasute termite (Nasutitermitinae, Termitidae, Isoptera), from southern Sumatra, Indonesia
A new species of nasute termite, Hospitalitermes krishnai sp. n., is described from soldiers and workers discovered in Lampung Province, Sumatra. This species can be distinguished from other related Hospitalitermes species from Southeast Asia by the anterior part of head capsule that is much smaller than the posterior part, head capsule that is moderately constricted behind the antennal sockets, and relatively deep depression between the head and nasus and, finally, the short and robust nasus measuring less than half as long as head capsule. Moreover, in profile the nasus is slightly up-curved but slightly decurved at the apical tip. We name this new species after Professor Kumar Krishna in recognition of his life-long contributions to termite taxonomy, systematics and biology.
["Nasutitermitinae"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new genus and species of mandibulate nasute termite (Isoptera, Termitidae, Syntermitinae) from Brazil
Acangaobitermes krishnai gen. et sp. n., is described here, based on soldiers and workers collected in Brazil. Some characteristics suggest a close kinship with Noirotitermes Cancello & Myles, and both genera share the following traits absent in all other Syntermitinae: the microsculpturing on the soldier head capsule surface with internal granulations; the piercing mandibles with a single very reduced marginal tooth and the worker very similar in both genera. The most conspicuous differences between Acangaobitermes and Noirotitermes are the shape of the soldier head, the frontal tube and pronotum. The shape of the soldier head in Noirotitermes is unusual, with a very broad and short frontal tube, four conspicuous protuberances like sharp corners at the rear, while in the new genus the posterior contour of the head is devoid of these protuberances. The frontal tube of Acangaobitermes is elongate and conical, while in Noirotitermes it is short and very broad. The pronotum of Acangaobitermes is saddle-shaped as is usual in other Syntermitinae, while it is aberrant in Noirotitermes.
["Termite"]

The termites of Early Eocene Cambay amber, with the earliest record of the Termitidae (Isoptera)
The fauna of termites (Isoptera) preserved in Early Eocene amber from the Cambay Basin (Gujarat, India) are described and figured. Three new genera and four new species are recognized, all of them Neoisoptera – Parastylotermes krishnai Engel & Grimaldi, sp. n. (Stylotermitidae); Prostylotermes kamboja Engel & Grimaldi, gen. et sp. n. (Stylotermitidae?); Zophotermes Engel, gen. n., with Zophotermes ashoki Engel & Singh, sp. n. (Rhinotermitidae: Prorhinotermitinae); and Nanotermes isaacae Engel & Grimaldi, gen. et sp. n. (Termitidae: Termitinae?). Together these species represent the earliest Tertiary records of the Neoisoptera and the oldest definitive record of Termitidae, a family that comprises >75% of the living species of Isoptera. Interestingly, the affinities of the Cambay amber termites are with largely Laurasian lineages, in this regard paralleling relationships seen between the fauna of bees and some flies. Diversity of Neoisoptera in Indian amber may reflect origin of the amber deposit in Dipterocarpaceae forests formed at or near the paleoequator.

Revision of the termite family Rhinotermitidae (Isoptera) in New Guinea
Recently, we completed a revision of the Termitidae from New Guinea and neighboring islands, recording a total of 45 species. Here, we revise a second family, the Rhinotermitidae, to progress towards a full picture of the termite diversity in New Guinea. Altogether, 6 genera and 15 species are recorded, among which two species, Coptotermes gambrinus and Parrhinotermes barbatus, are new to science. The genus Heterotermes is reported from New Guinea for the first time, with two species restricted to the southern part of the island. We also provide the first New Guinea records for six species of the genera Coptotermes and Schedorhinotermes. We briefly describe soldiers and imagoes of each species and provide a key based on soldier characters. Finally, we discuss the taxonomic and biogeographical implication of our results. A replacement name, Schedolimulus minutides Bourguignon, is proposed for the termitophilous staphylinid Schedolimulus minutus Bourguignon, to solve a question of secondary homonymy.
["termites"]

Distribution, diversity, mesonotal morphology, gallery architecture, and queen physogastry of the termite genus Calcaritermes (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae)
An updated New World distribution of the genus Calcaritermes is given along with photographs and a key to the New World species outside Mexico. Calcaritermes recessifrons is found to be a junior synonym of C. nigriceps. Except for C. temnocephalus, pseudergates of the other seven studied Calcaritermes species possess a mesonotal rasp. The rasps suggest a role in propagation of microbes on gallery surfaces and microbial infusion below the wood surface. Calcaritermes temoncephalus is shown to have an unusually large physogastric queens for a kalotermitid and several species produce large eggs.
["Neotropical distribution"]

Cryptotermes (Isoptera, Kalotermitidae) on Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu: Redescription of Cryptotermes albipes (Holmgren & Holmgren) and description of Cryptotermes penaoru sp. n.
Complete series of two species of the phragmotic drywood termite genus, Cryptotermes (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae), were found on Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu. Here, I describe for the first time the soldier of Cryptotermes albipes (Holmgren & Holmgren), which resembles C. domesticus but presents deep depressions on the head sides and vertex. The other species, here described as Cryptotermes penaoru sp. n., comes close to C. tropicalis, a species known from the tropical rainforest of northern Queensland, from which its soldier is distinguished by its more elongated head capsule.
["Isoptera"]

Carabidae diversity along an altitudinal gradient in a Peruvian cloud forest (Coleoptera)
Carabid beetles were sampled at five sites, ranging from 1500 m to 3400 m, along a 15 km transect in the cloud forest of Manu National Park, Perú. Seasonal collections during a one year period yielded 77 morphospecies, of which 60% are projected to be undescribed species. There was a significant negative correlation between species richness and altitude, with the number of carabid species declining at the rate of one species for each 100 m increase in altitude. The majority of species (70.1 %) were restricted to only one altitudinal site and no species was found at more than three of the five altitudinal sites. Only one genus, Pelmatellus (Tribe Harpalini), was found at all five sites. Active (hand) collections yielded approximately twice as many species per individuals collected than passive (pitfall trap) collections. This study is the first systematic sampling of carabid beetles of a high altitude gradient in the cloud forests of southeastern Perú and supports the need to conserve the zone of extremely high biodiversity present on the eastern slopes of the Peruvian Andes.
["ground beetles"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Low intensity surface fire instigates movement by Calosoma frigidum (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
The genus Calosoma (Coleoptera: Carabidae) is a group of large, sometimes ornate beetles, which often voraciously attack caterpillars. Many studies have reported Calosoma beetles being highly conspicuous during defoliator outbreaks. Based on observations of individual beetle behavior, patterns of activity density and phenology we provide a hypothesis on how environmental cues may synchronize Calosoma activity with periods of high defoliation. We have observed that adults of Calosoma frigidum construct underground burrows similar to those reported to be created by larvae for pupation. We propose that small increases in soil surface temperature caused either by defoliation events or decreased albedo of blackened, burned soil causes beetles to leave their underground burrows and begin foraging. Indirect support for this hypothesis comes from high levels of adult C. frigidum collected in relatively small patches of burned forest (<200m2) relative to the surrounding mosaic of unburned forest shortly after a prescribed surface burn.
["Calosoma"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Landscape patterns of species-level association between ground-beetles and overstory trees in boreal forests of western Canada (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Spatial associations between species of trees and ground-beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) involve many indirect ecological processes, likely reflecting the function of numerous forest ecosystem components. Describing and quantifying these associations at the landscape scale is basic to the development of a surrogate-based framework for biodiversity monitoring and conservation. In this study, we used a systematic sampling grid covering 84 km2 of boreal mixedwood forest to characterize the ground-beetle assemblage associated with each tree species occurring on this landscape. Projecting the distribution of relative basal area of each tree species on the beetle ordination diagram suggests that the carabid community is structured by the same environmental factors that affects the distribution of trees, or perhaps even by trees per se. Interestingly beetle species are associated with tree species of the same rank order of abundance on this landscape, suggesting that conservation of less abundant trees will concomitantly foster conservation of less abundant beetle species. Landscape patterns of association described here are based on characteristics that can be directly linked to provincial forest inventories, providing a basis that is already available for use of tree species as biodiversity surrogates in boreal forest land management.
["Landscape ecology"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Tabanidae and other Diptera on Camel’s Hump Vermont: Ecological Observations
A canopy trap and aerial nets led to finding 8 species of Tabanidae. There was an abundance of calyptrate muscoid flies. Camel’s Hump is in the Green Mountains of western New England, USA. Discovering Diptera on Camel’s Hump involved sixteen visits over 40 years. Upwards of 23 other Diptera species are listed. Habitats on the east side and above 762 m (2500 ft) elevation on Camel’s Hump differ from the west slope but the boreal forest on both sides is influenced by cloud and fog precipitation on trees. The cliffs just above the 900 m level along the east side are often overlooked, are not seen from the summit and provide access to morning sun for insects. Recent visits explored the role of polarized skylight in relation to the canopy trap, the boreal forest environment and flies found there.
["Tabanidae"]
["Fire effects on ecosystems", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and animal studies"]

Wing-dimorphism and population expansion of Pterostichus melanarius (Illiger, 1798) at small and large scales in central Alberta, Canada (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Pterostichini)
A study spanning ten years revealed changes in wing-morph ratios corroborating the hypothesis that the wing-dimorphic introduced carabid, Pterostichus melanarius Ill., is spreading through flight, from the city of Edmonton, Canada and establishing populations in natural aspen forest of more rural areas 45-50 km to the East. Comparison of wing-morph ratios between P. melanarius and the native wing dimorphic species Agonum retractum LeConte suggests that the spatial variation in ratios for P. melanarius does not reflect underlying environmental variation, but instead the action of selective forces on this wing-dimorphic species. About ten years after its earliest detection in some rural sites the frequency of macropterous individuals in P. melanarius has decreased c. five-fold, but it is still above the level seen in European populations in which the two wing-morphs are thought to exist in equilibrium. P. melanarius is expanding its range in native aspen forest much faster than three other introduced species Clivina fossor L.), Carabus granulatus O.F. Müller and Clivina fossor L also encountered in this study. The two Carabus species are flightless, but C. fossor can be dimorphic. Although these four non-native ground beetle species comprise >85% of the carabids collected at sites in urban Edmonton, activity-density of native carabids was similar across the urban-rural gradient, suggesting little direct impact of introduced species on the local abundance of native species. In a second study conducted at a smaller scale near George Lake, Alberta, macropterous individuals of P. melanarius have penetrated furthest and most rapidly into native aspen forest. Furthermore, the percentage of micropterous individuals has increased markedly in areas first colonized a decade previously. Overall, these studies support the idea that macropterous beetles in wing-d dimorphic species are important vanguards for early colonization of unexploited territory, but that flightless individuals replace the flying morph relatively rapidly once populations are established.
["Pterostichus melanarius"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Nebria brevicollis (Fabricius, 1792) in North America, benign or malign? (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Nebriini)
Nebria brevicollis (Fabricius) is one of the most frequently encountered and widely distributed carabid beetles in Europe. Until recently, the only North American records were based on two single specimens, both from the 1930’s in southeastern Canada. In 2008, this species was found at thirteen different sites in five counties in northwestern Oregon. As of the end of 2010, it has been found in thirty-four different sites in ten Oregon counties, with a north-south range of ~150 km and an east-west range of ~90 km. It was also detected in 2010 in southwestern Washington (Vancouver), just north of Portland and the Columbia River.The ecological amplitude of N. brevicollis in Oregon rivals that of the most eurytopic native carabid species, e.g., Pterostichus algidus LeConte and Scaphinotus marginatus (Fischer von Waldheim). It has been found in highly degraded heavy industrial sites, agricultural fields, city parks, gardens, second growth woodlands, mature conifer forests, montane rock gardens, and otherwise pristine stands of old growth noble fir, with elevations ranging from essentially sea level to 1,249 meters. Climates at these locales vary from that of the Mediterranean Willamette Valley floor, where snow rarely occurs and summers are hot and dry, to the summit of the Oregon Coast Range, where deep snow may be present from November through April and summers are cool. The carabid communities in which N. brevicollis has been found range from those predominantly of fellow exotic species, e.g., at heavily perturbed sites, to those where it is the only exotic species, such as at the Coast Range summit.Nebria brevicollis is clearly an invasive species in that it is not restricted to anthropogenic habitats, is rapidly expanding its North American range, and can be abundant in essentially pristine settings. What is not yet clear is whether it is or will become a damaging species. Although it is already the most abundant carabid species in some settings, based upon pitfall catches, it is unknown whether this represents competitive superiority, trap vulnerability, or utilization of previously untapped or non-limiting resources. Deleterious ecological effects could include not only competition with other predators (including other carabid species) in agricultural and natural settings but also predation upon non-adult stages of threatened and endangered species of butterflies.Nebria brevicollis (Fabricius) is one of the most frequently encountered and widely distributed carabid beetles in Europe. Until recently, the only North American records were based on two single specimens, both from the 1930s in southeastern Canada. In 2008, this species was found at thirteen different sites in five counties in northwestern Oregon. As of the end of 2010, it has been found in thirty-four different sites in ten Oregon counties, with a north-south range of ~150 km and an east-west range of ~90 km. It was also detected in 2010 in southwestern Washington (Vancouver), just north of Portland and the Columbia River.The ecological amplitude of N. brevicollis in Oregon rivals that of the most eurytopic native carabid species, e.g., Pterostichus algidus LeConte and Scaphinotus marginatus (Fischer von Waldheim). It has been found in highly degraded heavy industrial sites, agricultural fields, city parks, gardens, second growth woodlands, mature conifer forests, montane rock gardens, and otherwise pristine stands of old growth noble fir, with elevations ranging from essentially sea level to 1,249 meters. Climates at these locales vary from that of the Mediterranean Willamette Valley floor, where snow rarely occurs and summers are hot and dry, to the summit of the Oregon Coast Range, where deep snow may be present from November through April and summers are cool. The carabid communities in which N. brevicollis has been found range from those predominantly of fellow exotic species, e.g., at heavily perturbed sites, to those where it is the only exotic species, such as at the Coast Range summit.Nebria brevicollis is clearly an invasive species in that it is not restricted to anthropogenic habitats, is rapidly expanding its North American range, and can be abundant in essentially pristine settings. What is not yet clear is whether it is or will become a damaging species. Although it is already the most abundant carabid species in some settings, based upon pitfall catches, it is unknown whether this represents competitive superiority, trap vulnerability, or utilization of previously untapped or non-limiting resources. Deleterious ecological effects could include not only competition with other predators (including other carabid species) in agricultural and natural settings but also predation upon non-adult stages of threatened and endangered species of butterflies.
["Nebria brevicollis"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A taxonomic revision of the New World genus Oropodes Casey (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
The genus Oropodes is characterized and revised with 18 species being treated. Members of this genus are found in temperate forests to desert brush lands from Oregon to Baja California, but are associated primarily with dry forests and shrub lands of California. Keys to males and Females, where known, are provided. Seven species are redescribed: O. arcaps (California), O. dybasi (Oregon), O. ishii (California), O. nuclere (California), O. orbiceps (California), O. rumseyensis (California), O. yollabolly (California). The name Oropodes raffrayi (California) is raised from synonymy and the species is redescribed, stat. n. Ten new species are described: O. aalbui (California), O. bellorum (California), O. casson (California), O. chumash (California), O. esselen (California), O. hardyi (California), O. serrano (California), O. tataviam (California), O. tongva (California), and O. tipai (Baja California, Mexico), stat. n. These species are placed into three species groups: the arcaps-group, the orbiceps-group, and the raffrayi-group. Data for a new record of Euplecterga fideli are given, and a list of the unassociated Oropodes Females with distinctive genitalia is included with their label data.

Badister Clairville, 1806: A new species and new continental record for the nominate subgenus in Amazonian Perú (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Licinini)
Badister (Badister) amazonus sp. n. is described from Perú, Loreto, 1.0 km SW Boca del Rio Samiria, Vigilante Post 1, 130m, “04°40.5`S, 074°18.9`W" its type locality. It is known also from two other localities in Loreto Department, Perú, in both the Varzea and Igapó river systems. This new species is sufficiently different that a new informal higher taxon, the amazonus species complex, is recognized. An updated key to the Western Hemisphere species of subgenus Badister is provided.

Taxonomic review of the Pterostichini and Loxandrini fauna of New Caledonia (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
The generic-level taxa included in Pterostichini and Loxandrini from New Caledonia are reviewed and a key to genera and species provided. Two new genera are described, Paniestichus and Abacophrastus, with the following new species: Paniestichus subsolianus, Abacophrastus millei, A. chapes, A. carnifex, A. hobbit, A. megalops, A. reflexus and A. bellorum. Abacoleptus curtus new species, is described. Notonomus irideus and N. savesi are moved to Prosopogmus. Four new species of Prosopogmus are described: P. koghisensis, P. lescheni, P. fortis and P. aoupiniensis. Homalosoma griseolum is moved to Sphodrosomus. Cerabilia is newly recorded from New Caledonia and the genus is moved from Platynini to Loxandrini and therefore is the first report of Loxandrini from New Caledonia. An apparent adventive from Australia, Darodilia, is newly reported from New Caledonia.

Cladistic assessment of subtribal affinities within the tribe Moriomorphini with description of Rossjoycea glacialis, gen. n. and sp. n. from the South Island, and revision of Meonochilus Liebherr and Marris from the North Island, New Zealand (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Phylogenetic relationships within the tribe Moriomorphini Sloane, 1890 are analyzed cladistically based on 75 morphological characters and 21 ingroup terminal taxa rooted at a Trechus obtusus Erichson outgroup. Based on the resultant cladistic relationships, two subtribes–Moriomorphina and Amblytelina Blackburn, 1892–are recognized, with the following new synonymies proposed: Meonides Sloane, 1898 = Amblytelina (NEW SYNONYMY); Tropopterides Sloane, 1898 = Amblytelina (NEW SYNONYMY); Mecyclothoracitae Jeannel, 1940 = Amblytelina (NEW SYNONYMY). Monophyly of Moriomorphina is based on presence of elongate, parallel-sided and glabrous to nearly glabrous male parameres, whereas Amblytelina are defined most broadly by possession of conchoid parameres with narrowed, setose apices, subtending a clade defined by a more derived parameral configuration whereby elongate styloid parameres terminate in a whip-like apical extension. Representatives of all New Zealand moriomorphine genera are included in the analysis, with cladistic results necessitating description of Rossjoycea glacialis, gen. n. and sp. n., known from a single locality near the Franz Josef Glacier, Westland, South Island, New Zealand. Monophyly of Meonochilus Liebherr and Marris, 2009 is demonstrated, and its six species are taxonomically revised: M. amplipennis (Broun), M. eplicatus (Broun), M. placens (Broun), M. bellorum, sp. n., M. rectus, sp. n., and M. spiculatus, sp. n. Geographic restriction of Meonochilus to the North Island of New Zealand, coupled with its sister-group status to an Australian-based Amblytelus Erichson-Mecyclothorax Sharp clade reinforce the interpretation that Meonochilus was isolated in New Zealand by vicariance along the Norfolk Ridge, subsequent to New Zealand’s initial Cretaceous isolation from Tasmania and southeastern Australia via opening of the Tasman Sea.

A new species of Bembidion Latrielle 1802 from the Ozarks, with a review of the North American species of subgenus Trichoplataphus Netolitzky 1914 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Bembidiini)
A new species of Bembidion (Trichoplataphus Netolitzky) from the Ozark Plateau of Missouri and Arkansas is described (Bembidion ozarkense Maddison and Hildebrandt). It is distinguishable from the closely related species, B. rolandi Fall, by characteristics of the male genitalia, and sequences of the genes cytochrome oxidase I and 28S ribosomal DNA. A brief review of the North American species of Trichoplataphus is presented, including a key to species.
["Bembidion"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

The evolution and age of populations of Scaphinotus petersi Roeschke on Arizona Sky Islands (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Cychrini)
Populations of the ground beetle Scaphinotus petersi are isolated in subalpine conifer forest habitats on mountain ranges or Sky Islands in southeastern Arizona. Previous work on this species has suggested these populations have been isolated since the last post-glacial maximum times as warming caused this cool adapted species to retreat to high elevations. To test this hypothesis, we inferred the phylogeny from mitochondrial DNA sequence data from several Arizona Sky Island populations of S. petersi and estimated the divergence time of the currently isolated populations. We found two major clades of S. petersi, an eastern clade and a western group. Our results indicated most mountain ranges form clades except the Huachucas, which are polyphyletic and the Santa Catalinas, which are paraphyletic. We estimated the Pinaleño population is much older than the last glacial maximum, but the Huachuca and Pinal populations may have been fragmented from the Santa Catalina population since the post-glacial maximum times.
["carabid ground beetles"]

Taxonomic Revision of Hispaniola Tiger Beetles in the Genus Brasiella Rivalier, 1954 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Cicindelinae)
The Brasiella tiger beetle fauna on Hispaniola, the second largest island of the Greater Antilles, has more species diversity than currently recognized as all populations previously have been assigned to the insular endemic Brasiella dominicana (Mandl). A comparative study of adult morphology, particularly male genitalic and female abdominal characters, for available Brasiella specimens from populations on Hispaniola, proposes eight additional new species also endemic to this island. Except for three sympatric species in the Sierra de Baoruco in southern Dominican Republic occurring in different habitats, all the Brasiella on Hispaniola appear to be allopatric. Most species occur in the major mountainous regions of Hispaniola. Two species, however, are known only from river floodplains in the southern coastal plain of the Dominican Republic. Brasiella dominicana (Mandl) and B. ocoa, new species, occur along river floodplains emanating from the eastern end of the Cordillera Central in the Dominican Republic. Two new Brasiella species, B. bellorum, and B. philipi, occur in the Cordillera Central, Dominican Republic, the former species from central portions, and the latter species from north slopes of this mountain range, respectively. Three new Brasiella species, B. rawlinsi, B. iviei, and B. youngi, are isolated in the Sierra de Baoruco, Dominican Republic, where each occupies a different habitat along an altitudinal gradient. The two new Brasiella species in Haiti are B. darlingtoniana, in the Massif de la Selle, and B. davidsoni, in the Massif de la Hotte. All nine Brasiella species on Hispaniola, along with B. viridicollis (Dejean) and its two subspecies on Cuba, belong to the viridicollis species group of the genus Brasiella based on criteria presented in earlier published phylogenetic studies of Brazilian and West Indian tiger beetles. The subspecies Brasiella viridicollis fernandozayasi (Kippenhan, Ivie & Hopp) may represent a distinct species within this species group, whereas removal of Brasiella wickhami (W. Horn) from this species group seems warranted based on evidence presented. A general overview of species relationships for the Brasiella on Hispaniola are discussed, along with the current and ancestral geographic distributions of the Brasiella viridicollis species group in the West Indies.
["Hispaniola"]

Tetracha Hope 1838 of the Turks and Caicos Islands (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Cicindelinae)
A new species, Tetracha (Neotetracha) naviauxi, and a new subspecies, Tetracha (Tetracha) sobrina caicosensis, are described from the Turks and Caicos Islands. The key to Tetracha species in Naviaux (2007) is adapted to accommodate T. naviauxi. T. sobrina caicosensis is compared to other Caribbean subspecies of T. sobrina.

A new species of Chucallis Tao (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Calaphidinae) from China
A new species in the aphid genus Chucallis Tao, Chucallis latusigladius Qiao, Jiang & Chen, sp. n. feeding on a species of bamboo, Indocalamus tessellatus (Munro) Keng f., is described. It differs from the only other known species in the genus byremarkably large marginal processes on abdominal tergite IV. A key to species, morphological descriptions, distributional data and host plant information are provided. The type specimens studied are deposited in the National Zoological Museum of China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
["Chucallis"]

Redescription of the rare amphipod crustacean Pseudaeginella montoucheti (Quitete, 1971) from Brazil
Pseudaeginella montoucheti (Quitete, 1971) is redescribed based on newly collected specimens from red and brown algae and tubiculous polychaete colony that were obtained from shallow waters at Tamboretes Archipelago, Balneário Barra do Sul and Sepultura Beach, Bombinhas, Santa Catarina State, Brazil. Of 10 species of Pseudaeginella so far reported, P. montoucheti is closest to P. sanctipauli Laubitz, 1995, but differs from the latter bymore numerous body spines including ventro-lateral ones over gills on pereonites 3 and 4, and the antenna 1 length measuring half body length. An identification key for Pseudaeginella species and a checklist of Caprellidea occurring along the Brazilian coasts are also presented.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Two New Species of Harpactea (Araneae, Dysderidae) from Turkey
Two new species, Harpactea arnedoi sp. n. and H. kencei sp. n., are described on the basis of both sexes from the eastern Mediterranean and Aegean regions of Turkey. H. kencei sp. n. can be easily distinguished from all other Turkish and European representatives of the genus by the structure of the flattened, massive embolus on the male copulatory organ. Although resembling Stalagtia in palpal morphology, we describe one of the new species as Harpactea arnedoi sp. n. For both Turkish species, detailed morphological descriptions and diagnoses are presented together with figures of the copulatory organs.
["Dysderidae"]

Rainforest understory beetles of the Neotropics: Mizotrechus Bates 1872, a generic synopsis with descriptions of new species from Central America and northern South America
(Coleoptera, Carabidae, Perigonini)
Information on the single previously described species, Mizotrechus novemstriatus Bates 1872 (type locality: Brazil – Amazonas, Tefé), is updated and 17 new species for the genus from Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panamá, Colombia, Venezuela, and Guyane are described. The species records in the literature and on determined specimens in some collections of M. novemstriatus Bates from Central America are not that species; currently, M. novemstriatus is known only from its type locality in Amazonian Brazil. For the new species described, their known general distributions are as follows: Mizotrechus batesi sp. n. (Guyane), Mizotrechus bellorum sp. n. (Guyane), Mizotrechus brulei sp. n. (Guyane), Mizotrechus belevedere sp. n. (Guyane), Mizotrechus costaricensis sp. n. (Costa Rica), Mizotrechus dalensi sp. n. (Guyane), Mizotrechus edithpiafae sp. n. (provenance unknown), Mizotrechus fortunensis sp. n. (Panamá), Mizotrechus gorgona. sp. n. (Colombia), Mizotrechus grossus sp. n. (Guyane), Mizotrechus jefe sp. n. (Panamá), Mizotrechus marielaforetae sp. n. (Guyane), Mizotrechus minutus sp. n. (Guyane), Mizotrechus neblinensis sp. n. (Guyane, Venezuela), Mizotrechus poirieri sp. n. (Guyane), and Mizotrechus woldai sp. n. (Panamá). Long-term use of flight intercept traps in Guyane provided so many new species that apparently the use of FITs is the way to collect adults of this taxon, previously known from very few specimens. Many more species of this genus can be expected to be discovered throughout the Neotropics; the present contribution is a preliminary synopsis with identification key and adult images of all known species. Likely numerous species are yet to be discovered throughout tropical climes.
["Flight Intercept Traps (FITs)"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Synopsis of Falsocis Pic (Coleoptera, Ciidae): new species, new records and an identification key
Three new species of Falsocis Pic are described: F. aquilonius sp. n. from Panamá, Costa Rica and Colombia, F. egregius sp. n. from a single locality in northern Brazil and F. occultus sp. n. from two localities in southeastern and southern Brazil. New records, comparative notes and an identification key for male and female specimens of Falsocis species are also provided.
["Minute tree-fungus beetles"]

An annotated checklist of the planthoppers of Iran (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Fulgoromorpha) with distribution data
A list of Hemiptera Fulgoromorpha (planthoppers) of Iran is provided based primarily on literature records from 1902 to the present. In total 15 families and 235 species are recorded, with taxonomic details. Distribution data in Iran are given. Iranissus ephedinus Dlabola, 1980 is transferred from Issidae to Nogodinidae. To resolve nomenclatural difficulty the following new combinations in Issidae are given: Iranodus dumetorus (Dlabola, 1981), Iranodus khatunus (Dlabola, 1981) and Iranodus repandus (Dlabola, 1981). Due to published generic synonomy the following are new combinations: Duilius seticulosus (Lethierry, 1874), D. tamaricis (Puton & Lethierry, 1887), D. tamaricicola (Dubovsky, 1966) D. v-atrum (Dlabola, 1985).

Redescription of the poorly known Central Asian Titanoeca lehtineni Fet, 1986 (Araneae, Titanoecidae)
A poorly known spiders species, Titanoeca lehtineni Fet, 1986, from southwestern Central Asia is redescribed and diagnosed.
["Titanoeca"]

Dubinectes infirmus, a new species of deep-water Munnopsidae (Crustacea, Isopoda, Asellota)
from the Argentine Basin, South Atlantic Ocean
Dubinectes infirmus sp. n., Munnopsidae, is described from the Argentine Basin, southwest Atlantic, at depths between 4586–4607 m. The new species is distinguished by a narrow rim of the pleotelson posterior margin which is not raising over its dorsal surface; article 3 of the antennula is subequal in length to article 2; distomedial lobes of male pleopod 1 are of same size as distolateral lobes; stylet of male pleopod 2 is subequal in length to protopod; uropod exopod is more than a half of endopod length. Some generic characters which are weakly pronounced in the new species or have different state are defined more precisely in the revised diagnosis of Dubinectes. The modified diagnosis of the genus, a key to the species of Dubinectes as well as the distribution of the genus are presented.

Nine eriophyoid mite species from Iran (Acari, Eriophyidae)
Nine eriophyoid mites, including two new species and five new records, from Iran are described and illustrated. They are Aceria acroptiloni Shevchenko & Kacalev, 1974, rec. n. on Rhaponticum repens (L.) Hidalgo (Asteraceae); Aceria anthocoptes (Nalepa, 1892), rec. n. on Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. (Asteraceae); Aceria lactucae (Canestrini, 1893), rec. n. on Lactuca virosa L. (Asteraceae); Aceria pulicaris sp. n. on Pulicaria gnaphalodes (Vent.) Boiss. (Asteraceae); Aceria tosichella Keifer, 1969 on Setaria viridis (L.) Beauv. (Poaceae); Eriophyes rotundae Mohanasundaram, 1983 on Cyperus rotundus L. (Cyperaceae); Aculops maroccensis Keifer, 1972, rec. n. on Mentha piperita L. (Lamiaceae); Aculus medicager sp. n. on Medicago sativa L. (Leguminosae); Tetra lycopersici Xue & Hong, 2005, rec. n. on Solanum nigrum L. (Solanaceae).
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Study of Mite Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A new species of the genus Hydrodroma Koch, 1837 (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Hydrodromidae), with a key to the hitherto known six species of the genus in Australia
The genus Hydrodroma Koch, 1837 in Australia consists of six species, the newly described H. meridionalis sp. n. included. The new species is described from 45 sampling sites from running waters in Queensland, Victoria, New Southern Wales, Western Australia, Northern Territory and South Australia. Furthermore, a key for the identification of species of Hydrodroma occurring in Australia is given.
["water mites"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

Taxonomic contribution to the Aleiodes melanopterus (Erichson) species-group (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Rogadinae) from Brazil
The Aleiodes melanopterus (Erichson, 1848) species-group includes 21 species, of which seven are known from the Neotropical region: A. flavistigma Shaw, 1993, A. lucidus (Szépligeti, 1906), A. melanopterus, A. mexicanus Cresson, 1869, A. politiceps (Gahan, 1917), and the new species A. shaworum sp. n. and A. vassununga sp. n. Distribution ranges of A. melanopterus, A. flavistigma and A. lucidus are extended and the female of A. lucidus is described. A key to the Neotropical species of this species-group is presented.

First records of Gastrotricha from South Africa, with description of a new species of Halichaetonotus (Chaetonotida, Chaetonotidae)
During a survey of the biota of the St. Lucia Estuary in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa, a number of Gastrotricha were found among samples of meiofauna. Fresh, marine sediment yielded several specimens belonging to a total of seven species. Of these, two are already known from other regions (i.e., Dactylopodola australiensis and Heteroxenotrichula squamosa), one is described as new to science (Halichaetonotus sanctaeluciae sp. n.), while the remaining four (Pseudostomella sp., Halichaetonotus sp.1, Halichaetonotus sp. 2, Xenotrichula sp.) require further collections and analysis, in order to establish the extent of their affiliation to species already described. General appearance, shape of hydrofoil scale and the occurrence of three long spines on the dorsal side make the new species most closely related to H. australis and H. marivagus. The key differences from these taxa and between Halichaetonotus sanctaeluciae sp. n. and H. aculifer are discussed.
["Gastrotricha"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

A new bush anole (Iguanidae, Polychrotinae, Polychrus) from the upper Marañon basin, Peru, with a redescription of Polychrus peruvianus (Noble, 1924) and additional information on P. gutturosus Berthold, 1845
We herein describe a new colorful species of Polychrus with a conspicuous sexual dimorphism from the dry forest of the northern portion of Región de La Libertad, Peru. The new species differs from all other Polychrus species, in that this species has very small dorsal scales and thus a higher number of scales around midbody and in the middorsal line from behind the occipital scales to the level of the posterior edge of the thigh. Furthermore, we redescribe P. peruvianus whose original description is short and lacks information on intraspecific variation and sexual dimorphism. Also, we add some information on intraspecific variation and ecology of P. gutturosus. Finally, we synonymize P. spurrelli Boulenger with P. gutturosus.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Leioproctus rosellae sp. n., the first record of the genus from northern South America (Hymenoptera, Colletidae)
Leioproctus Smith is a diverse colletine genus found in the Australian region and primarily temperate areas of South America. A new species of Leioproctus subgenus Perditomorpha Ashmead, L. rosellae Gonzalez sp. n., from a tropical dry forest of the Caribbean coast of Colombia is described and figured. This is the first record of the genus from northern South America.
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

A new species of Quexua from southeastern Peru (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae)
A distinctive new species of the crabronine wasp genus Quexua Pate is described and figured from a single male collected from lowland Amazonian rain forest in southeastern Peru. Quexua cicra sp. n. is the only species in the genus known with a sessile metasoma.

Stenosoma stephenseni sp. n. (Isopoda, Idoteidae), from the southwestern Mediterranean, with a note on the nomenclatural status of Synisoma Collinge, 1917
Recent collections of isopods in Alboran Island and Algeria included several specimens of the species Stenosoma stephenseni sp. n. This is the fourteenth species described in the genus Stenosoma Leach, 1814. Examination of two specimens collected during the Danish oceanographic cruises of the Thor (1908–10) close to the Galite Islands, and identified as S. acuminatum Leach, 1814, revealed that both belong to S. stephenseni sp. n. In light of these findings, the Mediterranean records of S. acuminatum are revised, and it is proposed that S. acuminatum is a strictly Atlantic species. An updated diagnosis for the genus Stenosoma is given, together with a key for the identification of its species. The nomenclatural status of the name Synisoma Collinge, 1917 is addressed, and although it is in prevailing usage, it is shown that Stenosoma Leach, 1814 is the valid name of the genus.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Longidorus carniolensis sp. n. (Nematoda, Longidoridae) from vineyard soil in Slovenia
A new needle nematode, Longidorus carniolensis sp. n., recovered from the soil around the roots of grapevine Vitis vinifera L. from Slovenia, is described and illustrated. Longidorus carniolensis is an amphimictic species, characterised by females with a moderately long (L=5.6–8.2 mm) and plump (a=51–72.4, ave. 66.3) body, assuming a spiral to C-shape when heat relaxed. Head region continuous, anteriorly almost flat, lip region 23–25 µm wide; guiding ring situated posteriorly (42–47 µm, 43–50 µm in males), odontostyle long (ave. 146.6 (136–157) µm); pharyngeal glands with normal location, their nuclei of approximately equal size; tail bluntly conoidal to almost hemispherical. Males abundant, spicules slender and long (122–145 µm), ventromedian supplements 13–17, irregularly spaced, preceded by an adanal pair. Four juvenile stages present, the first stage juvenile with bluntly conoidal tail. Codes for identifying the new species when using the key by Chen et al. (1997) are: A 56, B 4, C 4, D 1, E 4, F 35, G 1, H 1, I 2. The new species is morphologically the most similar to L. poessneckensis Altherr, 1974, L. macrosoma Hooper, 1961, L. caespiticola Hooper, 1961, L. helveticus Lamberti et al., 2001, L. macroteromucronatus Altherr, 1974, L. pius Barsi et Lamberti, 2001, L. raskii Lamberti et Agostinelli, 1993, L. kheirii Pedram et al, 2008, L. silvae Roca, 1993, L. iuglandis Roca et al., 1985, L. vinearum Bravo et Roca, 1995 and L. major Roca et d’Erico, 1987, but differs from these species either by the body and odontostyle length, position of guide ring, head region and tail shape or the shape of the first stage juvenile tail. Sequence data from the D2-D3 region of the 28S rDNA distinguishes this new species from other species of the genus Longidorus with known sequences. Relationships of L. carniolensis sp. n. with other Longidorus species based on analysis of this DNA fragment and morphology are discussed.
["grapevine"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Triteleia peyerimhoffi comb. n., a remarkably variable circum-Mediterranean scelionid (Hymenoptera, Platygastroidea)
Triteleia peyerimhoffi comb. n. (Kieffer, 1906) is redescribed taking into account its great variability and is considered the senior synonym of Triteleia dubia (Kieffer, 1908), Calliscelio lugens (Kieffer, 1910) and Triteleia striolata Kononova & Petrov, 2000 (syn. n.). Neotypes are designated for T. dubia and T. peyerimhoffi. Triteleia peyerimhoffi is a new record for Greece, France and Croatia and was reared for the first time from eggs of Orthoptera laid in the dead wood of Quercus sp. and Tilia sp. in Romania.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the orchid bee subgenus Euglossella (Hymenoptera, Apidae), Part I, The decorata species group
Euglossella, one of the most distinctive subgenera of orchid bees of the genus Euglossa, is composed of two characteristic assemblages of species, one of them comprising bees bearing the strongly metallic integument trademark of the genus (viridis species group), and the other consisting of bees with a brown integument shaded with metallic iridescence (decorata species group). Here we provide the first of two parts of a revision of Euglossella, providing diagnostic definitions for the subgenus, the decorata species group, and all the species included therein. Six species are included in the decorata group, one new: Euglossa (Euglossella) aurantia, sp. n.; E. (E.) apiformis Schrottky, resurrected status; E. (E.) decorata Smith, revised status; E. (E.) singularis Mocsáry, revised status; E. (E.) cosmodora Hinojosa-Díaz and Engel; and E. (E.) perpulchra Moure and Schlindwein. Euglossa meliponoides Ducke and E. urarina Hinojosa-Díaz and Engel are newly synonymized under E. decorata, E. decorata ruficauda Cockerell is synonymized under E. singularis, and a neotype is designated for E. apiformis.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Black-tie dress code: two new species of the genus Toxomerus (Diptera, Syrphidae)
Toxomerus hauseri Mengual sp. n. and T. picudus Mengual sp. n. are described from Peru and Ecuador respectively. Toxomerus circumcintus (Enderlein, 1938) is treated as a valid species and not considered synonym of T. marginatus, and Toxomerus ovatus (Hull, 1942) is considered junior synonym of Toxomerus nitidus (Schiner, 1868). An identification key for the Toxomerus species with dark abdomens is given along with diagnoses for each studied species.
["Toxomerus"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Three species of land leeches from Taiwan, Haemadipsa rjukjuana comb. n., a new record for Haemadipsa picta Moore, and an updated description of Tritetrabdella taiwana (Oka)
Three species of land leeches, including a new combination Haemadipsa rjukjuana comb. n., a new record for Haemadipsa picta Moore, as well as an updated description for Tritetrabdella taiwana (Oka), are reported in this study. Morphological characters and DNA barcode analysis were used to identify these species. In addition, since H. rjukjuana had been regarded as a variety of the Japanese land leech Haemadipsa japonica for a century, morphological differences between these two species were also compared.
["Land leech"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

On a new Dictyna species (Araneae, Dictynidae) from the northern Palaearctic confused with the East Siberian D. schmidti Kulczyński, 1926
A new species, Dictyna palmgreni sp. n., is described from Finland and Russia on the basis of both sexes. Most of the earlier records of D. schmidti Kulczyński, 1926 from the northern Palaearctic refer to this new species. D. shilenkovi Danilov, 2000 syn. n. from Cisbaikalia is synonymised with D. schmidti. The general appearances and copulatory organs of D. palmgreni sp. n., D. schmidti and D. major Menge, 1869 are illustrated. The distribution of D. palmgreni sp. n. and D. schmidti is clarified. An unknown sac-like structure of the spermathecae of Dictyninae is briefly discussed.
["spiders"]

Iranotrichia gen. n., a new genus of Scenopinidae (Diptera) from Iran, with a key to window fly
genera of the world
An unusual new genus of Scenopinidae, Iranotrichia gen. n., comprising two newly discovered species (I. insolita sp. n. and I. nigra sp. n.), is described from Iran. Iranotrichia gen. n. are scenopinine window flies with a habitus reminiscent of certain bee fly genera (Bombyliidae), based on colouration and elongate mouthparts and antennae. The phylogenetic placement of this distinctive new genus is discussed and a dichotomous key to world genera is presented. The genus name Kelseyana nom. n. is proposed to replace Caenoneura Kröber, 1924, which was found to be preoccupied by Thomson (1870: 270) (Hymenoptera) and Kirby (1890: 136) (Odonata).
["Therevoid clade"]

A new species of hydrobiid snails (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Hydrobiidae) from central Greece
A new minute valvatiform species belonging to the genus Daphniola Radoman 1973, Daphniola eptalophos sp. n., from mountain Parnassos, Greece is described. The new species has a transparent valvatiform-planispiral shell, wide and open umbilicus, grey-black pigmented soft body and head and a black penis with a small colorless outgrowth on the left side near its base. A comparative table of shell dimensions and a key to the species known for this endemic genus for Greece are provided.
["Caenogastropoda"]

Annotated type catalogue of the Amphibulimidae (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Orthalicoidea) in the Natural History Museum, London
The type status is described of 39 taxa classified within the family Amphibulimidae (superfamily Orthalicoidea) and kept in the London museum. One taxon, Bulimus elaeodes Pfeiffer, 1853, is removed to the Strophocheilidae. Lectotypes are designated for Bulimus adoptus Reeve, 1849; Bulimus (Eurytus) eros Angas, 1878; Helix onca d’Orbigny, 1835; Amphibulima pardalina Guppy, 1868. The type status of the following taxon is changed to lectotype in accordance with Art. 74.6 ICZN: Strophocheilus (Dryptus) jubeus Fulton, 1908.As general introduction to this and following papers on Orthalicoid types in the Natural History Museum, a brief history of the London collection is given and several examples of handwriting from different authors are presented.
["Amphibulimidae"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A survey of East Mediterranean Dasumia (Araneae, Dysderidae) with description of new species
Dasumia gasparoi sp. n. is described based on specimens of both sexes. The new species is compared with the similar D. crassipalpis (Simon, 1882), described from Syria; and with D. mariandyna Brignoli, 1979, the only previously known species of the genus recorded from Turkey. Furthermore, we point out that, due to some contradictions to the original description of the genus, D. mariandyna may necessarily belong to another genus. Detailed morphological descriptions, diagnosis and figures of the copulatory organs of the new species are presented.
["Harpacteinae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First record of Acaenitinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from South America with description of a new species and a key to the world species of Arotes Gravenhorst
A new species of Acaenitinae, Arotes ucumari Castillo & Sääksjärvi sp. n., is described and illustrated representing the first record of the subfamily from South America. The new species was collected from a premontane tropical rain forest in the Peruvian Andes at 1500 m. A key to the world species of Arotes Gravenhorst, 1829 is provided. The subspecies Arotes albicinctus moiwanus (Matsumura, 1912) is raised to species rank, Arotes moiwanus stat. n.
["Protease and Inhibitor Mechanisms", "Ubiquitin and proteasome pathways", "Adipokines, Inflammation, and Metabolic Diseases"]

Six new species of Acomoptera from North America (Diptera, Mycetophilidae)
Six new species are described, raising the number of North American Acomoptera species to seven and the genus total to ten, and nearly doubling the number of species within the putative clade containing Acomoptera, Drepanocercus, and Paratinia. These novel species forms have implications for the concept of Acomoptera that in turn, may impact our understanding of its generic relationships and the evolution and composition of Gnoristinae and Sciophilinae. The new species, A. crispa, A. digitata, A. echinosa, A. forculata, A. nelsoni, and A. vockerothi, are compared with the type species of the genus, A. plexipus (Garrett), whose diagnostic features are imaged and illustrated for the first time. The European species, A. difficilis (Dziedzicki) is also illustrated and compared. Acomoptera spinistyla (Søli) comb. nov is transferred from Drepanocercus. A key to species is provided. Future work will seek to incorporate this knowledge into a systematic phylogenetic study of relationships between these species and their sister taxa.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Revision of Poliaspis (Hemiptera, Coccoidea, Diaspididae), with descriptions of 8 new species from Australia
Eight new Australian species of Poliaspis are described and illustrated: P. alluvia sp. n., P. araucariae sp. n., P. ceraflora sp. n., P. naamba sp. n., P. nalbo sp. n., P. narungga sp. n., P. ozothamnae sp. n., and P. waibenensis sp. n. Two described species are transferred into Poliaspis and are redescribed and illustrated: Lineaspis callitris (Laing) originally described by Laing as a species of Poliaspis, is transferred back into Poliaspis as P. callitris Laing comb. rev., and Leonardaspis wilga (Leonardi) is transferred to Poliaspis as P. wilga (Leonardi) comb. n. Descriptions and illustrations are also provided for six of the fourteen previously-named Poliaspis species, including five from Australia: P. attenuata Brimblecombe, P. elongata Brimblecombe, P. exocarpi Maskell, P. nitens Fuller, and P. syringae Laing. Both P. cycadis Comstock and P. gaultheriae Green become junior synonyms of P. media Maskell. The species not treated here are P. intermedia Fuller (the location of the types is unknown and Fuller’s description is inadequate), P. casuarinicola Lindinger (missing types), P. incisa Takagi and de Faveri (recently, and well described in Takagi and de Faveri 2011), and the six New Zealand species recently revised by Henderson (2011). In addition, Laingaspis lanigera (Laing), the adult female of which has 8 clusters of perivulvar pores – as in Poliaspis species – is redescribed and illustrated. Lectotypes are designated for L. lanigera, P. callitris, P. exocarpi, P. media, and P. wilga. A key is provided to the species of Poliaspis, excluding P. casuarinicola and P. intermedia but including P. incisa and the New Zealand species: P. chathamica Henderson, P. floccosa Henderson, P. lactea (Maskell), P. media Maskell, P. raouliae Henderson and P. salicornicola Henderson.

Redescription and revision of the Neotropical genus Pseudoheptascelio Szabó (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae, Scelioninae), parasitoids of eggs of short-horned grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Acrididae)
The genus Pseudoheptascelio Szabó is redescribed and its species revised. We recognize four species: P. muesebecki Szabó, P. cornopis Masner, P. tico sp. n. and P. rex sp. n. The genus is found from Guatemala south to the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul. The species P. cornopis is recorded as a parasitoid of the eggs of Cornops aquaticum (Bruner) on water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms.
["Platygastridae"]

Larvae and a new species of Ancyronyx Erichson, 1847 (Insecta, Coleoptera, Elmidae) from Palawan, Philippines, using DNA sequences for the assignment of the developmental stages
Ancyronyx montanus sp. n. is described based on adults and larvae, matched using their cox1 DNA sequence data. Larvae of six additional species of Ancyronyx Erichson, 1847 were also described here for the first time, aided by cox1 or cob data: A. helgeschneideri Freitag & Jäch, 2007, A. minerva Freitag & Jäch, 2007, A. patrolus Freitag & Jäch, 2007, A. procerus Jäch, 1994, A. punkti Freitag & Jäch, 2007, A. pseudopatrolus Freitag & Jäch, 2007. Ancyronyx procerus is newly recorded from the Philippines by a larval specimen from Busuanga island. The new species and larval stages are described in detail and illustrated by digital and SEM images. A key to the Ancyronyx larvae of Palawan and an updated checklist of Philippine Ancyronyx is provided.
["Ancyronyx"]

The genus Ectonura Cassagnau, 1980 in South Africa (Collembola, Neanuridae, Neanurinae), with a key to South African Neanurinae
Two new species of Neanurinae (Collembola) are described from the Western Cape, South Africa: Ectonura monochaeta sp. n. and Ectonura barrai sp. n. E. monochaeta sp. n. differs from other species in the genus by its strongly reduced chaetotaxy, and the lateral shift of dorso-internal chaetae on Abd. V and their integration in the tubercles (De+DL). E. barrai sp. n. is similar to E. natalensis (Womersley, 1934), but differs in chaetotaxic details and chaetal group arrangement. A key to the seven species of Neanurinae recorded from South Africa is given.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

First record of the littoral family Isotogastruridae (Collembola) in Asia
The new species Isotogastrura trichaetosa sp. n. is described from a sand beach of Hainan, South China. It differs from all its congeners by 3+3 axial setae on Abd. IV (vs. 2+2) and by the presence of a pair of tubercles on Abd.VI. The geography of this strictly littoral genus is discussed.
["Collembola"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Marine and environmental studies"]

A new genus and species of deep-sea glass sponge (Porifera, Hexactinellida, Aulocalycidae) from the Indian Ocean
New hexactinellid sponges were collected from 2589 m depth on the Carlsberg Ridge in the Indian Ocean during deep-sea dredging. All fragments belong to a new genus and species, Indiella gen. n. ridgenensis sp. n., a representative of the family Aulocalycidae described here. The peculiar features of this sponge, not described earlier for other Aulocalycidae, are: longitudinal strands present in several layers and epirhyses channelization.
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Tetraclita ehsani sp. n. (Cirripedia, Tetraclitidae), a common intertidal barnacle from the Gulf of Oman, Iran
A new species of intertidal acorn barnacle Tetraclita ehsani sp. n. was identified from the Iranian coast in the Gulf of Oman. T. ehsani sp. n. inhabits low exposed rocky shores and also attaches to shells of molluscs and the barnacle Megabalanus species. Parietes of T. ehsani ranged from white to pink which is different from T. serrata (in South African waters), which has green parietes. Morphology of the tergum and cirrus III of T. ehsani sp. n. is distinctive from other described West Indian Ocean species which have pink or white parietes (T. rufotincta, T. achituvi and T. reni). The tergum of T. ehsani is very narrow and the basal margin is slightly concave or straight, in contrast to T. rufotincta and T. reni, in which the tergum are board and with a very concave basal margin. Cirrus I anterior ramus of both T. ehsani and T. reni is antenniform and thus differing from the cirrus I of T. rufotincta (see Chan et al. 2009). Cirrus III of T. ehsani sp. n. is non-antenniform and lacks multicuspidate type setae, which is different from T. reni byan antenniform cirrus III and with multicuspidate setae.

The genus Camptochaeta in Nearctic caves, with the description of C. prolixa sp. n. (Diptera, Sciaridae)
Camptochaeta prolixa sp. n. (Diptera, Sciaridae) is described from caves in Nevada, and three other congeneric species are recorded from caves in Nevada and Arkansas, United States. The new species shows some indication to a subterranean mode of life, including long antenna and legs, and in some specimens, reduction of the eye bridge.
["Conservation Techniques and Studies", "Building materials and conservation", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control"]

First record of Neolindus Scheerpeltz from French Guiana (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae), with a key to males
The genus Neolindus Scheerpeltz, 1933, of the tribe Cylindroxystina Bierig, 1943, is recorded from French Guiana for the first time. Two new species, Neolindus irmleri sp. n. and Neolindus hermani sp. n., are described and illustrated. A key to males of Neolindus is provided.

Entedoninae wasps (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae) associated with ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in tropical America, with new species and notes on their biology
Three new species of Eulophidae associated, or presumed to be associated with ants are described: two species of Horismenus Walker and one species of Microdonophagus Schauff. Information on the biology is also included. The two Horismenus species are from Chiapas, Mexico. Horismenus myrmecophagus sp. n. is known only from females and is a gregarious endoparasitoid in larvae of the weaver ant Camponotus sp. ca. textor. The parasitoids pupate inside the host larva, and an average of 6.7 individuals develops per host. This is the second time a species of genus Horismenus is found parasitizing the brood of a formicine ant of genus Camponotus. Horismenus microdonophagus sp. n. is described from both males and females, and is a gregarious endoparasitoid attacking the larvae of Microdon sp. (Diptera: Syrphidae), a predator on ant brood found in nests of Camponotus sp. ca. textor. The new species of Microdonophagus, M. tertius, is from Costa Rica, and known only from the female. Nothing is known about its biology but since another species in same genus, M. woodleyi Schauff, is associated with ants through its host, Microdon larva (with same biology as H. microdonophagus), it is possible that also M. tertius has this association. A new distributional record for M. woodleyi is also reported, extending its distribution from Panama and Colombia to Brazil.
["Horismenus"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A review of the genus Serangium Blackburn (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from China
The genus Serangium Blackburn from China is reviewed. The genus Catanella Miyatake is removed from synonymy with Serangium. S. baculum Xiao is transferred to Catanella, as C. baculum (Xiao), comb. n. Twelve species of Serangium are described, keyed and illustrated, including eight new species, S. magnipunctatum Wang & Ren, sp. n., S. trimaculatum Wang & Ren, sp. n., S. centrale Wang & Ren, sp. n., S. leigongicus Wang & Ren, sp. n., S. latilobum Wang & Ren, sp. n., S. digitiforme Wang & Ren, sp. n., S. dulongjiang Wang, Ren & Chen, sp. n., and S. contortum Wang & Ren, sp. n. S. punctum Miyatake is newly recorded from China.

Two new Typhloreicheia species from Sardinia and their biogeographical significance (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Scaritinae)
Typhloreicheia monacha sp. n. and T. ilianae sp. n. are described from two caves of Central-Eastern Sardinia (Nuoro province): the Bue Marino cave and the Nurra ‘e Pradu cave, respectively. Both caves are located in the part of the island where many highly specialised subterranean carabid beetles are localised. T. monacha is apparently related to two other species of the same area, i.e. T. onnisi Casale & Magrini, 2004 and T. elegans (Dodero, 1916); T. ilianae is closely related to T. henroti Jeannel, 1957, known from a cave near Dorgali. Relationships and diagnostic features among these taxa are discussed and illustrated, and a key for identification of the specialised subterranean Typhloreicheia species of Sardinia is provided. The hypothesis of adaptive radiation of Reicheiina species in Sardinia, recently proposed by the senior author of this contribution, is further elaborated in light of new data.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Revision of the Paridris nephta species group (Hymenoptera, Platygastroidea, Platygastridae)
The Paridris nephta group is revised (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae). Fifteen species are described, 14 of which are new: Paridris atrox Talamas, sp. n. (Yunnan Province, China), P. bunun Talamas, sp. n. (Taiwan), P. ferus Talamas, sp. n. (Thailand), P. kagemono Talamas, sp. n. (Japan), P. minator Talamas, sp. n. (Laos, Thailand), P. mystax Talamas, sp. n. (Laos, Thailand), P. nephta (Kozlov) (Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Far Eastern Russia), P. nilaka Talamas, sp. n. (Thailand), P. reptilis Talamas, sp. n. (Taiwan), P. rugulosus Talamas, sp. n. (Laos, Vietnam), P. solaris Talamas, sp. n. (Laos, Thailand, Vietnam), P. teres Talamas, sp. n. (Vietnam), P. toketoki Talamas, sp. n. (Taiwan), P. verrucosus Talamas, sp. n. (Guangdong Province, China), P. yak Talamas, sp. n. (Thailand).
["Egg-parasitoid"]

Three new species and reassessment of the rare Neotropical ant genus Leptanilloides (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Leptanilloidinae)
We describe three new species of the Neotropical ant genus Leptanilloides: L. gracilis sp. n. based on workers from Mexico and Guatemala, L. erinys sp. n. based on workers and a gyne from Ecuador, and L. femoralis sp. n. based on workers from Venezuela. The description of L. gracilis is a northern extension of the known range of the genus, now numbering eleven described species. We also describe and discuss three unassociated male morphotypes from Central America. We report the occurrence of a metatibial gland in Leptanilloides and a fused promesonotal connection (suture) in some species. We provide a modified, detailed diagnosis of the genus and a revised key to the worker caste of the known species.
["dorylomorphs"]

Annotated catalogue of the Haliplidae of China with the description of a new species and new records from China (Coleoptera, Adephaga)
A revised checklist of Haliplidae (Coleoptera: Adephaga) of China is presented. A new species Haliplus (Haliplus) latreillei sp. n. is described from Guizhou, China. Three species, Haliplus (Haliplidius) confinis Stephens, Haliplus (Haliplus) ruficollis (De Geer) and Haliplus (Haliplus) sibricus Motschulsky are reported from China for the first time. Haliplus dalmatinus Müller is excluded from the list of Chinese species. A number of new provincial records from China is presented.

Two new Neotropical species of Ceracis Mellié (Coleoptera, Ciidae) and redefinition of the cucullatus group
Two new Neotropical species of Ceracis Mellié are described: Ceracis cassumbensis Antunes-Carvalho & Lopes-Andrade, sp. n. from a single locality in northeastern Brazil and Ceracis navarretei Antunes-Carvalho & Lopes-Andrade, sp. n. from a single locality in southern Mexico. Scanning Electron Microscope images of adults and photographs of holotypes and male terminalia are provided for both species, their similarities and differences with other Ceracis are briefly discussed, and the cucullatus species-group is redefined for including the new species described herein.
["Ciid"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Revision of the Southeast Asian millipede genus Orthomorpha Bollman, 1893, with the proposal of a new genus (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The large genus Orthomorpha is rediagnosed and is shown to currently comprise 51 identifiable species ranging from northern Myanmar and Thailand in the Northwest to Lombok Island, Indonesia in the Southeast. Of them, 20 species have been revised and/or abundantly illustrated, based on a restudy of mostly type material; further 12 species are described as new: O. atypica sp. n., O. communis sp. n., O. isarankurai sp. n., O. picturata sp. n., O. similanensis sp. n., O. suberecta sp. n., O. tuberculifera sp. n., O. subtuberculifera sp. n. and O. latiterga sp. n., all from Thailand, as well as O. elevata sp. n., O. spiniformis sp. n. and O. subelevata sp. n., from northern Malaysia. The type-species O. beaumontii (Le Guillou, 1841) is redescribed in due detail from male material as well, actually being a senior subjective synonym of O. spinala (Attems, 1932), syn. n. Two additional new synonymies are proposed: O. rotundicollis (Attems, 1937) = O. tuberculata (Attems, 1937), syn. n., and O. butteli Carl, 1922 = O. consocius Chamberlin, 1945, syn. n., the valid names to the left. All species have been keyed and all new and some especially widespread species have been mapped. Further six species, including two revised from type material, are still to be considered dubious, mostly because their paraterga appear to be too narrow to represent Orthomorpha species. A new genus, Orthomorphoides gen. n., diagnosed versus Orthomorpha through only moderately well developed paraterga, coupled with a poorly bi- or trifid gonopod tip, with at least some of its apical prongs being short spines, is erected for two species: O. setosus (Attems, 1937), the type-species, which is also revised from type material, and O. exaratus (Attems, 1953), both comb. n. ex Orthomorpha.
["millipede"]

Compression fossil Mymaridae (Hymenoptera) from Kishenehn oil shales, with description of two new genera and review of Tertiary amber genera
Compression fossils of three genera and six species of Mymaridae (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) are described from 46 million year old Kishenehn oil shales in Montana, USA. Two new genera are described: Eoeustochus Huber, gen. n., with two included species, E. kishenehn Huber (type species) and E. borchersi Huber, sp. n., and Eoanaphes., gen. n., with E. stethynioides Huber, sp. n. Three new species of Gonatocerus are also described, G. greenwalti Huber, sp. n. , G. kootenai Huber, sp. n., and G. rasnitsyni Huber, sp.n. Previously described amber fossil genera are discussed and five genera in Baltic amber are tentatively recorded as fossils: Anagroidea, Camptoptera, Dorya, Eustochus, and Mimalaptus.
["Mymaridae"]

A new genus of fossil Mymaridae (Hymenoptera) from Cretaceous amber and key to Cretaceous mymarid genera
Myanmymar aresconoides gen n., sp. n. is described from one female in Burmese amber, dated as about 100 my. It is similar to Arescon on wing features but is unique among Mymaridae indistinctly segmented palpi. It is the fifth mymarid genus definitely referable to the Cretaceous period. A key to Cretaceous mymarid genera is presented and the features of Myanmymar are compared with the other Cretaceous and extant mymarid genera.
["Carpenteriana"]

Lytopylus Förster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Agathidinae) species from Costa Rica, with an emphasis on specimens reared from caterpillars in Area de Conservación Guanacaste
Twelve species of Costa Rican Lytopylus are treated; these include all species reared from Lepidoptera caterpillars in Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica, over 32 years of caterpillar inventory, as well as two species recorded in the literature as occurring in Costa Rica. Ten new species are described, i.e., Lytopylus bradzlotnicki, Lytopylus colleenhitchcockae, Lytopylus gregburtoni, Lytopylus jessicadimauroae, Lytopylus jessiehillae, Lytopylus mingfangi, Lytopylus rebeccashapleyae, Lytopylus robpringlei, Lytopylus sandraberriosae, Lytopylus vaughntani. The following species are transferred to Lytopylus: Metriosoma flavicalcar Enderlein 1920 to Lytopylus flavicalcar comb. n.; Bassus macadamiae Briceño and Sharkey 2000 to Lytopylus macadamiae comb. n.; Metriosoma bicarinatum Enderlein 1920 to Lytopylus bicarinatum comb. n.; Metriosoma brasiliense Enderlein 1920 to Lytopylus brasiliense comb. n.; Bassus tayrona Campos 2007 to Lytopylus tayrona comb. n.; Microdus femoratus Cameron 1887 to Lytopylus femoratus comb. n.; Microdus melanocephalus Cameron 1887 to Lytopylus melanocephalus comb. n.; Bassus pastranai Blanchard 1952 to Lytopylus pastranai comb. n.; Agathis nigrobalteata Cameron 1911 to Lytopylus nigrobalteatus comb. n. Two keys to species of Lytopylus are presented, one interactive and the other static.
["parasitoids"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A molecular phylogeny of the Cephinae (Hymenoptera, Cephidae) based on mtDNA COI gene: a test of traditional classification
Cephinae is traditionally divided into three tribes and about 24 genera based on morphology and host utilization. There has been no study testing the monophyly of taxa under a strict phylogenetic criterion. A molecular phylogeny of Cephinae based on a total of 68 sequences of mtDNA COI gene, representing seven genera of Cephinae, is reconstructed to test the traditional limits and relationships of taxa. Monophyly of the traditional tribes is not supported. Monophyly of the genera are largely supported except for Pachycephus. A few host shift events are suggested based on phylogenetic relationships among taxa. These results indicate that a more robust phylogeny is required for a more plausible conclusion. We also report two species of Cephus for the first time from Turkey.

A new long-proboscid genus of Pseudopolycentropodidae (Mecoptera) from the Middle Jurassic of China and its plant-host specializations
We describe a new genus and species of Mecoptera with siphonate mouthparts, Sinopolycentropus rasnitsyni gen. et sp. n., assigned to the family Pseudopolycentropodidae Handlirsch, 1925. The specimen was collected from late middle Jurassic nonmarine strata of the Jiulongshan Formation in Inner Mongolia, northeastern China. The new material provides additional evidence for an early diversification of pseudopolycentropodids that was ongoing during the middle Jurassic. This diversity also adds to the variety of known pseudopolycentropodids with tubular proboscides that apparently fed on ovulate fluids produced by Mesozoic gymnosperms.
["Pseudopolycentropodidae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A long-living species of the hydrophiloid beetles: Helophorus sibiricus from the early Miocene deposits of Kartashevo (Siberia, Russia)
The recent hydrophiloid species Helophorus (Gephelophorus) sibiricus (Motschulsky, 1860) is recorded from the early Miocene deposits of Kartashevo assigned to the Ombinsk Formation. A detailed comparison with recent specimens allowed a confident identification of the fossil specimen, which is therefore the oldest record of a recent species for the Hydrophiloidea. The paleodistribution as well as recent distribution of the species is summarized, and the relevance of the fossil is discussed. In addition, the complex geological settings of the Kartashevo area are briefly summarized.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

A new ground beetle (Carabidae, Protorabinae) from the Lower Cretaceous of Inner Mongolia, China
Cretorabus rasnitsyni sp. n., belonging to the extinct subfamily Protorabinae of Carabidae, was described based on a well-preserved specimen from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation of Yangshuwanzi, Inner Mongolia. The diagnostic characters for Cretorabus are revised, and the key to species of the genus was presented. The fossil record of Protorabinae was summarized. Sinocarabus Hong, 1982 and Obesofemoria Hong, 1982 cannot be attributed to Protorabinae.
["Protorabinae"]

The smallest Neoptera (Baryshnyalidae fam. n.) from Hagen-Vorhalle (early Late Carboniferous: Namurian B; Germany)
With Baryshnyala occulta gen. et sp. n. (Baryshnyalidae fam. n.) we report a new small species from early Late Carboniferous (Pennsylvanian) deposits in Hagen-Vorhalle. It differs in its unique venation pattern and small size from all other Neoptera known from this Lagerstätte and other contemporaneous locations worldwide. With an estimated wing length of <10mm it is by far the smallest species of Neoptera from Hagen-Vorhalle and is less than half as long as Heterologopsis ruhrensis Brauckmann & Koch, 1982 (~25mm). The specimen shows some relations to the earliest Holometabola and may date back the first appearance of holometaboly to the Namurian B (early Bashkirian: Marsdenian). The new species increases the paleo-biodiversity and span of inter-specific variability within the early Neoptera. It shows that very small and tiny specimens and species can easily be overlooked.
["Hagen-Vorhalle"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

Rasnitsynala sigambrorum gen. et sp. n., a small odonatopterid (“Eomeganisoptera”, “Erasipteridae”) from the early Late Carboniferous of Hagen-Vorhalle (Germany)
Besides Erasipteroides valentini (Brauckmann in Brauckmann, Koch & Kemper, 1985), Zessinella siope Brauckmann, 1988, and Namurotypus sippeli Brauckmann & Zessin, 1989, Rasnitsynala sigambrorum gen. et sp. n. is the fourth species of the Odonatoptera from the early Late Carboniferous (Early Pennsylvanian: Namurian B, Marsdenian) deposits of the important Hagen-Vorhalle Konservat-Lagerstätte in Germany. With its wing-span of about 55mm it is unusually small even for the “Eomeganisoptera”. Its venation resembles other small “Eomeganisoptera”, in particular Z. siope. This is why it is here assigned to the probably paraphyletic “Erasipteridae” Carpenter, 1939.
["Odonatoptera"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Alexandr Pavlovich Rasnitsyn, (palaeo)entomologist extraordinaire – a personal appreciation
This note is not meant to be an exhaustive account of the many achievements of Alex Rasnitsyn over the 75 years of his life thus far. Apart from anything else, I have little knowledge of his activities outside of my professional interactions with him. Also, there will undoubtedly be several other biographical essays this year to celebrate his accomplishments in many fields. So, my intention, after providing the essential details to place him in context, mainly derived from his personal page on the Paleontological Institute’s website (Rasnitsyn 2011) and a note in the Paleontological Journal (Laboratory of Arthropods, in press), is to give my personal impressions of our interactions, his influence on my own life and work, and on hymenopterology in general.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

The genus Diolcogaster Ashmead, 1900 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from China
The genus Diolcogaster Ashmead, 1900 (Hymenopteran, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from China is revised and keyed, with nine new species, namely D. bifurcifossa sp. n., D. brevivena sp. n., D. grammata sp. n., D. ineminens sp. n., D. laetimedia sp. n., D. pluriminitida sp. n., D. praritas sp. n., D. punctatiscutum sp. n. and D. translucida sp. n. described and illustrated, and one species, D. perniciosa (Wilkinson, 1929) recorded for the first time from China. A key to the Chinese species of this genus is provided.

Species of the genus Thressa Walker, 1860 from China (Diptera, Chloropidae)
A review of the species of the genus Thressa from China is provided. The following four species are described as new to science: T. bimaculata sp. n., T. daiyunshana sp. n., T. foliacea sp. n. and T. longimaculata sp. n. One species, T. flavior (Duda), is recorded from China for the first time. A key to the species of the Thressa from China is given.

A new genus Squamophis of Asteroschematidae (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea, Euryalida) from Australia
Squamophis, a new genus of brittle star is described. Two species are included in the genus: Squamophis amamiensis (Okanishi & Fujita, 2009) from south-western Japan and Squamophis albozosteres sp. n. from north-western Australia. Squamophis gen. n. is distinguished from the other genera of the family Asteroschematidae by the following characters: each radial shield is single-layered and is completely covered by plate-shaped epidermal ossicles, and the relative length of the longest arm spine throughout the arms is as long as the length of the corresponding arm segment. Squamophis albozosteres sp. n. is distinguished from Squamophis amamiensis inwhite, slightly domed, plate-shaped epidermal ossicles on the aboral side of the body, the ossicles on aboral and lateral portion of the arms form transverse rows, and the other part of aboral side of disc and basal to middle portion of arms are brown but tip of the arms are light purple.

A new marine interstitial Psammogammarus (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Melitidae) from Gura Ici Island, off western Halmahera (North Moluccas, Indonesia), and an overview of the genus
Psammogammarus wallacei sp. n. is described from the shallow marine interstitial of a sand and coral rubble beach on the Gura Ici islands (North Moluccas; Indonesia). This is the first record of this circum-tropical genus from SE Asia, with the geographically closest relative inhabiting the Ryukyu archipelago in Japan. The new species is highly distinctive by the display of sexual dimorphism on pleopod II, with the medial margin of the male proximal article of exopod provided with a comb of short, blunt curved spinules; no other representative of the genus is known to display sexually-dimorphic appendages aside of the gnathopods. The new species is also noteworthy by the outline of the palm margin of male gnathopod II, hardly excavated, and by showing a carpus broader than long. An overview of the genus Psammogammarus with 14 species to date is provided.
["Shallow marine interstitial"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and environmental studies"]

A key to species of subgenus Lithochlaenius (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Chlaeniini, Chlaenius), with descriptions of three new species
Three new species of genus Chlaenius Bonelli subgenus Lithochlaenius Kryzhanovskij are described from China: Chlaenius chuanqianensis Liu & Liang, sp. n. (type locality: Xishui, Guizhou Province), C. linwensini Liu & Liang, sp. n. (type locality: Fujian Province), and Chlaenius propeagilis Liu & Kavanaugh, sp. n. (type locality: Gaoligongshan, Yunnan Province). Seven species of the subgenus are redescribed: C. agiloides Jedlička, C. formosensis Lorenz, C. agilis Chaudoir, C. leishanensis Kirschenhofer, C. noguchii Bates, C. rambouseki Lutshnik, and C. wrasei Kirschenhofer. Additional taxonomic changes include the following: Chlaenius formosanus Jedlička is treated as a junior synonym of C. rambouseki Lutshnik and C. anchomenoides Bates, syn. n. and C. nuristanus Jedlička as junior synonyms of C. agilis Chaudoir, syn. n. Chlaenius latro LaFerté-Sénectère is considered a nomen nudum stat. n. and unavailable, leaving C. agilis Chaudoir as the next available name. Chlaenius nuristanus aberration rubridipes Jedlička is also an unavailable name. Chlaenius formosensis Lorenz (=C. formosanus Habu) is returned to species status stat. n. A key to adults of the 10 known species of subgenus Lithochlaenius is provided.

Two new species of Brueelia Kéler, 1936 (Ischnocera, Philopteridae) parasitic on Neotropical trogons (Aves, Trogoniformes)
Two new species of Brueelia are described and illustrated. These new species and their type hosts are: Brueelia sueta ex Pharomachrus pavoninus (Spix, 1824), the Pavonine Quetzal and Brueelia cicchinoi ex Trogon viridis Linnaeus, the White-tailed Trogon. Both new species differ from the only Brueelia described on Trogon mexicanus by many morphological features, including those present in the male genitalia and female vulvar margin. Partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene for these two new species differ from one another by 13.6% uncorrected p-distance. Whereas B. cicchinoi is only 0.3% divergent from previously published COI sequences identified as Brueelia sp. from the Mexican T. melanocephalus Gould, 1936 and T. massena Gould, 1938. We also found B. cicchinoi on T. melanurus, T. collaris and Pharomachrus pavoninus. Thus B. cicchinoi is found on multiple trogoniform hosts across an extremely large geographic distribution and has one of the largest number of host associations among Brueelia species.
["Chewing lice"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Callosphecodes, a little-known bee (Hymenoptera, Halictidae, Sphecodes)
Callosphecodes Friese, 1909, a synonym or perhaps subgenus of Sphecodes Latreille, 1804, is known on the basis of one female of Sphecodes ralunensis (Friese, 1909) from New Britain and one female and one male of a similar species, Sphecodes manskii (Rayment, 1935) from northeastern Australia. The male is here described for the first time and the females of the two species are compared for the first time. In spite of considerable collecting, only these three specimens have appeared in over a century. Descriptions and illustrations are provided.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Halocoryza Alluaud 1919, sea-side beetles of the Indian, Atlantic (sensu lato), and Pacific Oceans: a generic synopsis and description of a remarkable new species from Baja California Sur, México (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Scaritini, Clivinina)
Information on the three previously described species of Halocoryza Alluaud is updated and a new species for the genus from Isla Carmen, Sea of Cortés, Baja California Sur, México is described. Halocoryza whiteheadiana sp. n. was found at UV light on a beach of that island. This species does not fit the profile of the other three species, i.e., living on coralline beach sands, or in the Mangrove intertidal zone. Two alternative possibilities as to why this is so are suggested and a study plan for testing these possibilities is proposed.
["Sea of Cort\u00e9s"]

Andinopanurgus, a new Andean subgenus of Protandrena (Hymenoptera, Andrenidae)
A new subgenus of Protandrena Cockerell (Panurginae: Protandrenini) from South America, Andinopanurgus Gonzalez & Engel, subgen. n., is described and figured for distinctive species of the genus occurring at mid- and high elevations in the Andes from Venezuela to Peru (1100–3400 m). In addition to the distribution, the subgenus is easily distinguished from other subgenera by a unique combination of morphological characters in both sexes, especially in the hidden sterna and genitalia of the male. Protandrena amyae sp. n., and P. femoralis sp. n., are also described and figured from the Ecuadorian and Peruvian Andes. New geographical records and a key to the species are also provided.

Schaeferiana (Gaboniella subgen. n.) incompleta sp. n. from Gabon, with notes on its relationships and new records from the Central African Republic (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pyrrhocoridae)
A new subgenus, Gaboniella subgen. n., of the genus Schaeferiana Stehlík, 2008, and its type species, Schaeferiana (Gaboniella) incompleta sp. n. are described from Gabon. In addition the first state records of Sericocoris (Depressoculus) albomaculatus Stehlík, 2008 and Schaeferiana (Schaeferiana) mirabilis Stehlík, 2008 from the Central African Republic are provided.

A new species of the genus Quedius Stephens, 1829, subgenus Microsaurus Dejean, 1833, from northeastern North America (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylinini, Quediina)
The paper contains a description of a new species of the subgenus Microsaurus Dejean, 1833, of the genus Quedius Stephens, 1829, based on specimens from northeastern North America (Canada: Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick; USA: New Hampshire).
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

New Palaearctic species of the tribe Thalassaphorurini Pomorski, 1998 (Collembola, Onychiuridae)
The paper is devoted to a taxonomic revision of the genus Sensillonychiurus Pomorski et Sveenkova, 2006. Five new species of this genus, i.e. S. mirus sp. n., S. taimyrensis sp. n., S. vegae sp. n., S. vitimicus sp. n., and S. amuricus sp. n., as well as three new species of the related genus Allonychiurus Yoshii, 1995, i.e. A. subvolinensis sp. n., A. elikonius sp. n., and A. unisetosus sp. n. are being described from various regions of Eurasia. The diagnoses of both genera are amended to include described species. Two genera, Tantulonychiurus Pomorski, 1996 and Thibaudichiurus Weiner, 1996, are treated as junior synonyms of the genus Allonychiurus. Agraphorura eisi (Rusek, 1976) is transferred to Sensillonychiurus; Tantulonychiurus volinensis (Szeptycki, 1964) and T. asiaticus Babenko, 2007 to Allonychiurus. A review of morphological peculiarities of Sensillonychiurus is performed, comparisons with the other genera of Thalassaphorurini given, and a key to the known species provided.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Oviposition behaviour of four ant parasitoids (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Euphorinae, Neoneurini and Ichneumonidae, Hybrizontinae), with the description of three new European species
The oviposition behaviour of four ant parasitoids was observed and filmed for the first time. The movies are available from YouTube (search for Elasmosoma, Hybrizon, Kollasmosoma and Neoneurus). Two of the observed species (Neoneurus vesculus sp. n. and Kollasmosoma sentum sp. n.) are new to science. A third species (Neoneurus recticalcar sp. n.) is described from Slovakia and Norway. Keys to the Palaearctic species of the genera Neoneurus and Kollasmosoma are added.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Trachymolgus purpureus sp. n., an armored snout mite (Acari, Bdellidae) from the Ozark highlands: morphology, development, and key to Trachymolgus Berlese
Trachymolgus purpureus Fisher & Dowling sp. n. is described from the Ozark highlands of North America. A diversity of imaging techniques are used to illustrate the species including low-temperature scanning electron microscopy (LT-SEM), stereomicrography, compound light micrography, and digitally created line drawings. Developmental stages (larva, nymphs, and adult) and morphology are illustrated and discussed, and terminological corrections are suggested. Trachymolgus recki Gomelauri, 1961 is regarded as being described from tritonymphs. A key to Trachymolgus is presented.
["LT-SEM"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Bird parasitology and diseases"]

Myrmica elmesi (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) a new species from Himalaya
Myrmica elmesi sp. n. is described from Himalaya. This species belongs to the pachei group of Myrmica species and is distinct from the species described in this group hitherto, which is represented by 14 species including three from Indian Himalaya. Myrmica elmesi is the fourth species of the diverse pachei group found in Himalaya; it was collected from the transitional zone and is described with notes on its ecology, this gains significance in the sense that ecology of most of the old world Myrmica is either unknown or poorly known.
["Myrmica elmesi"]

Notes on the genus Apteroloma of China (Coleoptera, Agyrtidae)
A new species, Apteroloma zhejiangense sp. n., is described from Zhejiang Province, China. The habitus and sexual characters of the new species are illustrated. Apteroloma jinfo Růžička, is reported for the first time from China: Hubei and Hunan Provinces, and A. potanini (Semenov, 1893) from Ningxia and Henan Provinces. Presence of A. kozlovi Semenov-Tian-Shanskij & Znojko in Semenov-Tian-Shanskij, 1932 in South Korea is confirmed based on re-examined material.

Tungurahualini, a new tribe of Neotropical leafhoppers, with notes on the subfamily Mileewinae (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae)
A new cicadellid tribe, Tungurahualini, is recognized to include Tungurahuala Kramer, and a related new genus, Ilyapa gen. n., based on six new species. The tribe is included in subfamily Mileewinae, the concept of which is further expanded to include tribes Makilingiini Baker, and Tinteromini Godoy and Webb, taxa previously treated as separate subfamilies. Keys to tribes of Mileewinae (sensu lato) and genera of Tungurahualini are provided. A new species of Tungurahuala, T. acuminata sp. n., is also described and keys to species of Tungurahuala and Ilyapa are provided. The new tribe is presently recorded only from cloud forests in the northern Andes Mountains of South America.
["Homoptera"]

Description of a new species of Ectinorus (E. spiculatus) (Siphonaptera, Rhopalopsyllidae) from Argentina and a review of the subgenus Ichyonus Smit, 1987
A new species, Ectinorus spiculatus, is described from Phyllotis xanthopygus (Waterhouse) and Akodon iniscatus Thomas from Neuquén Province, Argentina. Habitat characteristics are presented for the type locality. A change in status of four additional subspecies of the Ectinorus subgenus Ichyonus Smit is provided. Ectinorus onychius onychius Jordan & Rothschild, E. onychius deplexus Smit and E. onychius angularis Smit and Rosický were elevated to specific status. Ectinorus (Ichyonus) onychius fueginus was relegated as a junior synonym of the nominate species. Phyllotis xanthopygus, Abrothrix olivaceus xanthorhinus, Loxodontomys micropus Waterhouse, and Euneomys chinchilloides (Waterhouse) are new host records for E. onychius. A key to the three species of Ichyonus is included.
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Bee Products Chemical Analysis"]

Australian Assassins, Part I: A review of the Assassin Spiders (Araneae: Archaeidae) of mid-eastern Australia
The Assassin Spiders of the family Archaeidae are an ancient and iconic lineage of basal araneomorph spiders, characterised by a specialised araneophagic ecology and unique, ‘pelican-like’ cephalic morphology. Found throughout the rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests and mesic heathlands of south-western, south-eastern and north-eastern Australia, the genus Austrarchaea Forster & Platnick, 1984 includes a diverse assemblage of relictual, largely short-range endemic species. With recent dedicated field surveys and significant advances in our understanding of archaeid biology and ecology, numerous new species of assassin spiders have been discovered in the montane sub-tropical and warm-temperate closed forests of mid-eastern Australia, including several rare or enigmatic taxa and species of conservation concern. This fauna is revised and 17 new species are described from south-eastern Queensland and eastern New South Wales: A. alani sp. n., A. aleenae sp. n., A. binfordae sp. n., A. christopheri sp. n., A. clyneae sp. n., A. cunninghami sp. n., A. dianneae sp. n., A. harmsi sp. n., A. helenae sp. n., A. judyae sp. n., A. mascordi sp. n., A. mcguiganae sp. n., A. milledgei sp. n., A. monteithi sp. n., A. platnickorum sp. n., A. raveni sp. n. and A. smithae sp. n. Adult specimens of the type species, A. nodosa (Forster, 1956) are redescribed from the Lamington Plateau, south-eastern Queensland, and distinguished from the sympatric species A. dianneae sp. n. A key to species and a molecular phylogenetic analysis of COI and COII mtDNA sequences complement the species-level taxonomy, with maps, habitat photos, natural history information and conservation assessments provided for all species.

A new synonym of the Neotropical parasitoid wasp genus Notiospathius (Braconidae, Doryctinae), with redescription of two species and description of five new species from Brazil
A junior synonym of the parasitoid wasp genus Notiospathius Matthews and Marsh, Hansonorum syn. n., with two new combinations, N. carolinae (Marsh) comb. n. and N. pauli (Marsh) comb. n., are proposed. Two species of Notiospathius from Brazil originally described in early twentieth century are redescribed, N. caudatus (Szépligeti) and N. diversus (Szépligeti). Five new species of Notiospathius from southern Brazil are also described: N. atra sp. n., N. johnlennoni sp. n., N. novateutoniae sp. n., N. sulcatus sp. n., and N. xanthofasciatus sp. n. Most of the type specimens of the above new species were collected in the mid twentieth century in the Nova Teutonia region, which is now part of the municipality of Seara in the state of Santa Catarina.
["parasitoid wasps"]

Cossidae of the Socotra Archipelago (Yemen)
The taxonomy of the family Cossidae (Lepidoptera) of the Socotra Archipelago is revised. Five species are recognized, including two new species (Mormogystia brandstetteri and Meharia hackeri), and dubious identifications and records are discussed. Adults and genitalia are illustrated and bionomic details, molecular evidence and a synonymic checklist of Socotra Cossidae genera is provided. A review of their distribution reveals that at least 80 percent of Socotro`s Cossidae species are unique to the archipelago which is renowned for its endemism.

New species of Prepseudatrichia Kelsey, 1969 from Thailand (Diptera, Scenopinidae)
A new species of Prepseudatrichia Kelsey, 1969 (Prepseudatrichia tiger sp. n.) is described from Thailand, the first record of the genus from the Oriental region. A key to world species of Prepseudatrichia is given.
["Therevoid clade"]

New species, new records and new morphological characters of the genus Tillicera Spinola from China (Coleoptera, Cleridae, Clerinae)
Two new species of the genus Tillicera Spinola, 1844 from China are described and illustrated: Tillicera sensibila sp. n. form Yunnan and Tillicera wenii sp. n. from Taiwan. Tillicera bibalteata Gorham, 1892, T. hirsuta (Pic, 1926) and T. michaeli Gerstmeier & Bernhard, 2010 are newly recorded from China. Tillicera auratofasciata (Pic, 1927) is newly recorded in some provinces of China. A key to species of the genus from China is provided. Relationships between species are discussed with emphasis on characters of male phallus, female internal reproductive organs and pit-like sensilla in male terminal antennomere, which is discovered in Tillicera for the first time. The present generic definition of Tillicera is discussed as well. Photos of terminalia of the previously known species are also provided for comparison.

Review of the stiletto fly genus Actenomeros Winterton & Irwin (Diptera, Therevidae, Agapophytinae)
The endemic Australian genus Actenomeros Winterton & Irwin, 1999 is reviewed. Three species are transferred from Nanexila Winterton & Irwin, 1999: A. aureilineata (Winterton & Irwin) comb. n., A. intermedia (Winterton & Irwin) comb. n. and A. paradoxa (Winterton & Irwin) comb. n. A new species (A. budawang sp. n.) is described and figured from New South Wales. A key to species is presented.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of genus Pseudaspidapion Wanat, 1990 (Coleoptera, Apionidae) from China
Pseudaspidapion botanicum sp. n. from China is described and figured. Its host plant is Grewia biloba G. Don var. parviflora (Bunge) Hand.-Mazz (Malvaceae: Grewioideae). The genus Harpapion Voss, 1966 is recorded as new for China and Vietnam and two comb. n. are proposed: Harpapion vietnamense (Korotyaev, 1985) (from Aspidapion) and H. coelebs (Korotyaev, 1987) (from Pseudaspidapion). A key to the known species of the genus Pseudaspidapion from China is presented.
["Weevils"]

The genera Deuterixys Mason, 1981 and Wilkinsonellus Mason, 1981 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from China, with description of two new species
The genus Deuterixys Mason, 1981 of the tribe Cotesiini (Hymenopteran, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) is recorded from China for the first time. Two new species, D. bifossalis Zeng & Chen, sp. n. and D. curticalcar Zeng & Chen, sp. n., are described and illustrated, and a key to the Old World species of Deuterixys is given. Meanwhile, two species Wilkinsonellus paramplus Long & van Achterberg, 2003 and W. tomi Austin & Dangerfield, 1992 of the genus Wilkinsonellus Mason, 1981 are recorded from China for the first time and illustrated.

Two new species of Paratrigona Schwarz and the male of Paratrigona ornaticeps (Schwarz) (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Two distinctive new species of the Neotropical stingless bee genus Paratrigona Schwarz from Ecuador and Paraguay are described and figured. The Ecuadorian species, P. scapisetosa sp. n., belongs to the haeckeli-lineatifrons group and is easily distinguished from its congeners by the unique shape and pubescence of the antennal scape, which is distinctly convex on its outer margin and bears thick, long, simple hairs along its inner margin. The Paraguayan species, P. wasbaueri sp. n., belongs to the lineata group and is easily distinguished by the pattern of body pubescence in both sexes and male genitalic characters. The male of the Mesoamerican species P. ornaticeps (Schwarz) is described and figured. New geographical records for P. impunctata and P. opaca, and an updated key to the haeckeli-lineatifrons and lineata species groups are provided.

Combining non-invasive methods for the rapid assessment of mammalian richness in a transectquadrat survey scheme – Case Study of the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve, North Lebanon
Lebanon lacks updated information related to the status of mammalian species, their richness and distribution. This study aimed at developing a rapid assessment methodology combining three non-invasive techniques based on the transect-quadrat survey scheme to measure mammalian richness at the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve. The achieved results showed that the combination of the three techniques, droppings, footprints and photo-trapping for the rapid assessment of mammalian richness supported by Geographical Information System applications is highly effective. Twenty visits covering twenty quadrats out of 49 over a period of nine months allowed the detection of 12 of the 14 targeted species with droppings providing the majority of evidence while footprints and photo-trapping being of equal efficiency. The method can be easily replicated in any region to rapidly assess mammalian richness and the area of activity of the detected species and therefore directing conservation and management activities towards species of interest.
["Mammals"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Two remarkable new species of Prothemus Champion from China and Thailand, with comments on their systematic status (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
Two remarkable new cantharid species were described, Prothemus laticornis sp. n. (CHINA: Yunnan) and P. lycoceroides sp. n. (THAILAND: Chiang Dao), and provided with illustrations of aedeagi, ultimate abdominal sternites and antennae of both sexes. Their systematic status was discussed, because they differed from all other species of Prothemus in the serrate antennae and elytra with distinct longitudinal costae and longer pubescence.

A new species of the genus Epidamaeus (Acari, Oribatida, Damaeidae) from China
The oribatid mite genus Epidamaeus Bulanova-Zachvatkina, 1957 from China is reviewed, and a list and key to all known species from China are provided. A new species, Epidamaeus conjungenus, sp. n. is identified, and its morphological descriptions and illustrations are also given. The distinct characteristics of E. conjungenus sp. n. is the coterminous ridge connected to the base of the notogastral setae. Pseudanal setae undulating attenuate, the proximal half with obvious, thorn-like barbs, the distal half smooth.
["Epidamaeus"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A survey of the East Palaearctic Lycosidae (Araneae). 9. Genus Xerolycosa Dahl, 1908 (Evippinae)
Three species of Xerolycosa: X. nemoralis (Westring, 1861), X. miniata (C.L. Koch, 1834) and X. mongolica (Schenkel, 1963), occurring in the Palaearctic Region are surveyed, illustrated and redescribed. Arctosa mongolica Schenkel, 1963 is removed from synonymy with X. nemoralis and transferred to Xerolycosa, and the new combination Xerolycosa mongolica (Schenkel, 1963) comb. n. is established. One new synonymy, Xerolycosa undulata Chen, Song et Kim, 1998 syn. n. from Heilongjiang = X. mongolica (Schenkel, 1963), is proposed. In addition, one more new combination is established, Trochosa pelengena (Roewer, 1960) comb. n., ex Xerolycosa.
["Wolf spider"]

A new species of Thecadactylus from Sint Maarten, Lesser Antilles (Reptilia, Squamata, Gekkonidae)
We describe a new species of Thecadactylus from the Caribbean island of Sint Maarten. The new species differs from all other species in the genus bya distinct dorsal pattern of numerous irregular but sharply deliminated black spots and blotches on an otherwise almost patternless background.
["Gekkonidae"]

A taxonomic review of Eucalantica (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) with descriptions of six new species
The New World genus Eucalantica is reviewed with descriptions of six new species: E. costaricae Sohn et Nishida, sp. n., E. ehecatlella Sohn et Nishida, sp. n., E. ikarosella Sohn et Nishida, sp. n., E. powelli Sohn, sp. n., and E. pumila Sohn, sp. n., all five from Costa Rica; E. vaquero Sohn, sp. n. from southern USA and Mexico. The type species, E. polita (Walsingham), is redescribed and its lectotype and two paralectotypes are designated. The variations of forewing pattern in E. polita, are compared to other congeners and diagnosed to minimize possible confusion. Illustrations and keys of the adults and the genitalia of each sex, where available, are provided for all seven species of the genus. Our review suggests possibly high diversity of Eucalantica in the tropical highlands of Central America and predicts more new species to be discovered by further inventories.

Two new species of Simulium (Gomphostilbia) (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Peninsular Malaysia, with keys to Peninsular Malaysian members of the ceylonicum species-group
Two new species of black flies, Simulium (Gomphostilbia) roslihashimi sp. n. and S. (G.) lurauense sp. n., are described on the basis of reared adult, pupal and larval specimens collected from Peninsular Malaysia. These two new species are placed in the ceylonicum species-group within the subgenus Gomphostilbia. Simulium (G.) roslihashimi sp. n. is most distinctive with the malealmost entirely yellow antennae, and S. (G.) lurauense sp. n. is characterized in the female bythe elongate sensory vesicle and the yellowish-white hairs on the base of the costal vein and on the stem vein, in the male by the greater number of the large upper-eye facets and the spindle-shaped male hind basitarsi which are much narrower than the hind tibiae and femora and in the pupa by the small terminal hooks. Keys to species of the ceylonicum species-group recorded from Peninsular Malaysia are provided for females, males, pupae and mature larvae.
["black fly"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Preliminary list of horse flies (Diptera, Tabanidae) of Serbia
Thirty six species of horse flies (Tabanidae) were previously known from Serbia (Europe). The present faunistic study of horse flies (Tabanidae) has resulted in the recording of the 4 new species Atylotus fulvus (Meigen, 1804); Tabanus miki Brauer in Brauer and Bergenstamm, 1880; Tabanus unifasciatus Loew, 1858; and Heptatoma pellucens (Fabricius, 1776), in the fauna of Serbia. The genus Heptatoma Meigen, 1803 is cited for the first time in the fauna of Serbia. 40 species are currently known from Serbia, belonging to nine genera. The fauna can be considered relatively poorly studied. Most of the species belong to the Boreal-Eurasian type of fauna 23, followed by the South European group with 8 species, the Mediterranean group with 6 species, European group with 2 species and Central European group with 1 species.
["Tabanidae"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

A new remarkable subterranean beetle of the Rhodopes: Paralovricia n. gen. beroni n. sp. belonging to Lovriciina new subtribe (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Trechinae: Bembidiini)
Paralovricia gen. n. beroni sp. n., belonging to the new subtribe Lovriciina, is described from two caves in the Western Rhodopes (Bulgaria): Kraypatnata peshtera, near Smilyan Village (Smolyan Municipality) and Snezhanka, near Peshtera Town (Peshtera Municipality). Three currently known genera, Lovricia Pretner, 1979, Neolovricia Lakota, Jalžić & Moravec, 2009 and Paralovricia gen. n. represent a monophyletic unit supported by important synapomorphies that allows to propose the establishment of the new subtribe Lovriciina, characterized by the following characters: last maxillary palpomeres very long and narrow, basal angles of pronotum without seta, elytra without discal setae, elytral umbilicate series of nine pores in which the main pores are the 2nd, 6th and 9th, apical recurrent striole absent and mesotibial apex expanded outward. Its systematic position within the subfamily Trechinae (sensu Lorenz 2005) is discussed and Lovriciina is placed near Anillina. Key to the genera of the subtribe is proposed. Distribution data and zoogeographical hypotheses are discussed.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Syllidae (Annelida, Polychaeta) from the Caribbean coast of Venezuela
Venezuela possesses a great variety of coastal environments allowing for a high diversity of marine species. However, systematic studies on marine invertebrates are scarce, especially on polychaetes. The family Syllidae is poorly known, and only 14 genera and 42 species have been reported from this country. A total of 13 genera and 26 species the Syllidae were identified from benthic samples collected on different substrata of the northeastern coast of Venezuela. Of these, seven genera and 16 species constitute new records for Venezuela: Odontosyllis guillermoi, Syllides floridanus, Salvatoria clavata, S. limbata, Sphaerosyllis longicauda, Parapionosyllis longicirrata, Trypanosyllis parvidentata, T. vittigera, Opisthosyllis sp., Syllis amica, S. armillaris, S. gracilis, S. pseudoarmillaris, S. vittata, Parasphaerosyllis indica and Myrianida convoluta.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Pictorial key for females of Decevania Huben (Hymenoptera, Evaniidae) and description of a new species
Decevania Huben currently comprises 13 species, the females of which are known for only four. Herein an additional Neotropical Decevania is newly described: Decevania feitosai Kawada, sp. n. from Colombia. The description and identification key were made using the DELTA program. A pictorial key to females of Decevania is provided. Anatomical terminology follows the Hymenoptera Anatomy Ontology project with an atlas for terminologies used for recognition of Decevania species. The distribution maps can be accessed in Google Maps or through of Dryad (repository of data).
["Evanioidea"]

Hypsilara royi gen. n. and sp. n. (Coleoptera, Elmidae, Larainae) from Southern Venezuela, with a revised key to Larainae of the Western Hemisphere
Here we describe a new genus, for a new species of riffle beetle, Hypsilara royi gen. n. and sp. n., from the tepui Cerro de la Neblina in southern Venezuela. This new genus can be distinguished from all other laraine genera by its small size (ca. 4.5 mm) and the presence of a shallow, wide, V-shaped groove across the apical third of the pronotum. An updated key to the genera of Western Hemisphere Larainae is provided, along with information on habitat and collection methods for this taxon.

New records of water mites of the family Torrenticolidae (Acari, Hydrachnidia) with descriptions of two new species from Nanshih River system in Taiwan and redescription of Torrenticola ussuriensis (Sokolow, 1940) from the Russian Far East
New records of torrenticolid water mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia, Torrenticolidae) from Nanshih River, Taiwan, are presented. Two new species are described: Torrenticola nanshihensis and T. taiwanicus; the latter species is compared with T. ussuriensis (Sokolow, 1940), a poorly known species which is re-described based on a new material from the Russian Far East; Monatractides cf. circuloides (Halík, 1930) is reported for the first time for Taiwan.
["Study of Mite Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

The subfamily Cheloninae from Egypt, with the descriptions of two new species (Hymenoptera, Braconidae)
A key to the chelonine species (Braconidae) (both recorded and recently collected) from Egypt is given. It includes 16 species, of which five species are new to the Egyptian fauna and two (Phanerotoma (Phanerotoma) elbaiensis sp. n. and Phanerotoma (Bracotritoma) ponti sp. n.) are new for science. A faunistic list and the description for the two new species are added.
["Cheloninae"]

Two new species of the genus Leenurina Najt & Weiner, 1992 (Collembola, Neanuridae, Caputanurininae) from Primorskij Kraj (Russia)
Leenurina khualaza sp. n. and Leenurina pomorskii sp. n., two new species from East Russia (Primorskij Kraj) are described. They are closely related to Leenurina jasii Najt & Weiner, 1992 from North Korea, from which they differ mainly in the number of tibiotarsal chaetae (19, 19, 18 in the new species versus 18, 18, 17 in Leenurina jasii), several chaetotaxic features and organization of dorsal granulation. The two new species may be separated by tertiary granulation (large areas fringed with large secondary granules in L. pomorskii, small rounded or hexagonal areas with smaller secondary granules in L. khualaza), coloration (light blue in L. khualaza versus white in L. pomorskii) and number of eyes (2+2 eyes in L. khualaza versus 3+3 eyes in L. pomorskii). An updated diagnosis of the genus Leenurina Najt & Weiner, 1992 and a key to species of Caputanurininae are given.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Marine and environmental studies"]

A new species of Buthus Leach, 1815 from Cyprus (Scorpiones, Buthidae)
During the last decade, several contributions to the genus Buthus Leach, 1815 (family Buthidae) and especially to the ‘Buthus occitanus’ species complex were proposed. These contributions led to the definition of several species, previously considered only as subspecies or varieties, and also to the description of new species. In the present study, the questionable presence of the genus Buthus in the Cyprus is rediscussed and a new species Buthus kunti sp. n. is described.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Description of two new species of Rissoella Gray, 1847 (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Heterobranchia) from Venezuela, with a key to the Caribbean species known for the genus
Two new species of the genus Rissoella Gray, 1847 are described from Venezuela, one from the National Park Morrocoy, Rissoella morrocoyensis sp. n. and the other from the Wildlife Refuge Isla de Aves, Rissoella venezolanicola sp. n. R. morrocoyensis sp. n. has a deep umbilicus (partly closed), preumbilical cord, black head, hypobranchial gland marked by a pale yellow boomerang-shaped ribbon and it lives on the leaves of the seagrass Thalassia testudinum Banks & König, 1805. R. venezolanicola sp. n. has an angled preumbilical cord which extends to the columella delimiting a trapezoid, a hypobranchial gland marked by a yellow quaver-shaped ribbon and protoconch with fuchsia highlights. It lives on the brown alga Dictyota spp. The records of Rissoella in the Caribbean are revised and illustrations, a comparative table and a key to the Caribbean species known for the genus are provided.
["Rissoellidae"]

Revision of the Neotropical caddisfly genus Itauara Müller, 1888 (Trichoptera, Glossosomatidae)
Systematics of the genus Itauara Müller, 1888 are reviewed. A generic diagnosis, illustrations, and descriptions are provided for males. The genus can be identified by several features of the male genitalia including an extremely reduced phallobase and a phallic apparatus that consists of a sclerotized dorsal sheath covering a very membranous ventral portion. A total 18 species are described as new: Itauara alexanderi, new species (Brazil), I. bidentata, sp. n. (Guyana), I. blahniki, sp. n. (Brazil), I. charlotta, sp. n. (Brazil), I. emilia, sp. n. (Brazil), I. flinti, sp. n. (Brazil), I. guyanensis, sp. n. (Guyana), I. jamesii, sp. n. (Brazil), I. julia, sp. n. (Brazil), I. lucinda, sp. n. (Brazil), I. ovis, sp. n. (Guyana, Venezuela), I. peruensis, sp. n. (Peru), I. rodmani, sp. n. (Brazil), I. simplex, sp. n. (Brazil), I. spiralis, sp. n. (Guyana), I. stella, sp. n. (Brazil), I. tusci, sp. n. (Brazil), and I. unidentata, sp. n. (Guyana). These additions bring the total fauna of Itauara to 22 species.

New species of the genus Cyamops Melander from New Zealand (Diptera, Periscelididae, Stenomicrinae)
Two new species of the genus Cyamops (Diptera: Periscelididae), the first from New Zealand, are described. The two newly described species are: Cyamops alessandrae and C. crosbyi. A key to the genera of the subfamily Stenomicrinae and to the species of Cyamops from the Australasian/Oceanian Region and detailed illustrations of structures of the male terminalia are provided.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Baeopterogyna mihalyii Matile (Diptera, Mycetophilidae): association of sexes using morphological and molecular approaches with the first description of females
Both males and females of Baeopterogyna mihalyii Matile, 1975 are recorded from northern Greece. Females are described for the first time providing photographs of the general facies and terminalia. In contrast to the single congener with stenopterous females – B. nudipes Vockeroth, 1972 – B. mihalyii is shown to have normally developed wings in both sexes. Association of sexes is based on both morphological characters and sequence data from cytochrome oxidase subunit one (COI). DNA sequences are used for the first time for the association of sexes in Mycetophilidae. New country record from Greece is provided for Sciophila nigronitida Landrock, 1925.

The dazed and confused identity of Agassiz’s land tortoise, Gopherus agassizii (Testudines: Testudinidae) with the description of a new species and its consequences for conservation
We investigate a cornucopia of problems associated with the identity of the desert tortoise, Gopherus agassizii Cooper. The date of publication is found to be 1861, rather than 1863. Only one of the three original cotypes exists, and it is designated as the lectotype of the species. Another cotype is found to have been destroyed in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and subsequent fire. The third is lost. The lectotype is genetically confirmed to be from California, and not Arizona, USA as sometimes reported. Maternally, the holotype of G. lepidocephalus Ottley et Velázques Solis, 1989 from the Cape Region of Baja California Sur, Mexico is also from the Mojavian population of the desert tortoise, and not from Tiburon Island, Sonora, Mexico as previously proposed. A suite of characters serve to diagnose tortoises west and north of the Colorado River, the Mojavian population, from those east and south of the river in Arizona, USA and Sonora and Sinaloa, Mexico, the Sonoran population. Species recognition is warranted and because G. lepidocephalus is from the Mojavian population no names are available for the Sonoran species. Thus, a new species, Gopherus morafkai sp. n., is named and this action reduces the distribution of G. agassizii to only 30% of its former range. This reduction has important implications for the conservation and protection of G. agassizii, which may deserve a higher level of protection.
["Lectotype"]

Chemosymbiotic bivalves from the mud volcanoes of the Gulf of Cadiz,
NE Atlantic, with descriptions of new species of Solemyidae, Lucinidae
and Vesicomyidae
The chemosymbiotic bivalves collected from the mud volcanoes of the Gulf of Cadiz are reviewed. Of the thirteen species closely associated with chemosynthetic settings two Solemyidae, Solemya (Petrasma) elarraichensis sp. n. and Acharax gadirae sp. n., one Lucinidae, Lucinoma asapheus sp. n., and one Vesicomyidae, Isorropodon megadesmus sp. n. are described and compared to close relatives of their respective families. The biodiversity and distribution of the chemosymbiotic bivalves in the Gulf of Cadiz is discussed and compared to the available information from other cold seeps in the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean. Although there is considerable similarity at the genus level between seep/mud volcano fields in the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, there is little overlap at the species level. This indicates a high degree of endemism within chemosymbiotic bivalve assemblages.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Notes on the genus Harmonicon F.O.P.-Cambridge, 1896 (Araneae, Dipluridae) with description of a new species from French Guyana
Information on the genus Harmonicon F.O.P.-Cambridge, 1896, a key to the species and a new diagnosis differing from the one in Maréchal and Marty (1998) are provided. A new species is described: Harmonicon oiapoqueae differing from other species of the genus by the morphology of the posterior sternal sigilla, the more recurved, inverted U–shaped fovea, the amount and arrangement of maxillary cuspules, a single row of teeth on the claws of the palpal tarsus, longer and more slender legs III and IV in females, longer embolus, thinner bulb, and longer, more slender legs in males. The status of the putative junior synonyms of Harmonicon, Pseudohermachura Mello-Leitão, 1927 and Prosharmonicon Mello-Leitão, as well as the two species formerly assigned to Harmonicon, Harmonicon nigridorsi Mello-Leitão, 1924 and Harmonicon riveti Simon, 1903, is discussed.
["spider taxonomy"]

Taxonomy of the genus Metolinus Cameron (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae, Xantholinini) from China with description of three new species
This paper studies the taxonomy of the genus Metolinus Cameron, 1920 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae, Staphylininae, Xantholinini) from China and describes three new species: Metolinus xizangensis sp. n. from Xizang (Tibet), M. emarginatus sp. n. from Sichuan, and M. binarius sp. n. from Yunnan. The Chinese fauna of the genus is thus increased to 8 species in total. A key to eight Chinese species is provided. Female genital segments and other important morphological characters are illustrated in line drawings for the new species as well as M. shanicus Bordoni, 2002 and M. gardneri (Cameron, 1945). The text also provides color plates with habitus photographs and a map to show the species’ geographical distribution pattern. The type specimens of the new species are deposited in Institute of Zoology, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZ-CAS).

Review of the genus Plistobunus Pocock, 1903, with description of a new species from Hainan Island, China (Opiliones, Laniatores, Epedanidae)
The genus Plistobunus Pocock, 1903 and its type species Plistobunus rapax Pocock, 1903 are redescribed based on the type material deposited in the British Museum of Natural History (BMNH), London. In addition, a new Plistobunus species from Hainan Island is described and illustrated of Plistobunus columnarius sp. n. The new species is diagnosed bya row of 12 setiferous tubercles on anterior margin of carapace, and the femur of pedipalpus ventrally with 13 setiferous tubercles in male.

Taxonomic review of the postica-group of Fannia Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera, Fanniidae) from China, with the description of one new species
The Chinese fauna of the Fannia postica-group Chillcott (1961) is reviewed, the diagnostic features of this group are redefined, one new species, Fannia nudifemorata sp. n., is described, and a key to the males of nine known species is given. One new junior synonym, F. tigripeda Xue, Wang & Li, syn. n. for F. stigi Rognes is established. To facilitate comparisons of the species, Fannia aethiops Malloch, F. ardua Nishida, F. discoculea Xue, F. ringdahlana Collin, F. postica (Stein), F. spathiophora Malloch, and F. stigi Rognes are redescribed and illustrated. The geographic distribution of the known Chinese species is updated.

On Chinese species of Dianous group I (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Steninae)
Chinese species of Dianous group I are studied and three new species are described: D. fengtingae sp. n. from Hainan Province, D. zhujianqingi sp. n. from Jiangxi and Guizhou Province, and D. huanghaoi sp. n. from Yunnan Province. Dianous shan Rougemont and D. viridicupreus Rougemont are discovered from China for the first time. Their diagnostic characters are illustrated and a key to Chinese species of Dianous group I is provided.

Parachorius semsanganus sp. n. from Laos, the Asian’s largest Canthonini of special phylogenetic significance
The new species Parachorius semsanganus sp. n. is described from Laos. This enigmatic Oriental deltochiline represents a “morphological link” between Parachorius and Cassolus by sharing characters of the two genera. The fact that P. semsanganus cannot be unequivocally placed in either of these two genera stresses some more general problems of the current classification of Parachorius and Cassolus. Such problems can be solved only in the course of phylogenetic analysis, the need of which is briefly outlined.
["Canthonini"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Atubusinipponaphis, a new genus of Hormaphidinae (Hemiptera, Aphididae) causing galls on Distylium chinense from China, with description of a new species
The aphid genus Asiphonipponaphis gen. n. from China is new to science. Asiphonipponaphis vasigalla sp. n. causing galls on Distylium chinense from Hunan, China is described and illustrated. Holotype and paratypes are deposited in the National Zoological Museum of China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (NZMCAS) and Kogakkan University, Japan.
["Atubusinipponaphis"]

A revision of the Chinese Stephanidae (Hymenoptera, Stephanoidea)
Stephanidae Leach, 1815 (Hymenoptera: Stephanoidea) from China are revised. Five genera are reported from China: Foenatopus Smith, 1861; Megischus Brullé, 1846; Parastephanellus Enderlein, 1906; Schlettererius Ashmead, 1900; and Stephanus Jurine (in Panzer), 1801, and the genera are keyed. All the Chinese species are described and illustrated and new synonyms are established. Keys to species of the five genera occurring in China and adjacent regions are provided.
Six species are new to science: Foenatopus brevimaculatus sp. n., F. maculiferus sp. n., F. yangi sp. n., Parastephanellus angulatus sp. n., P. brevicoxalis sp. n. and P. zhejiangensis sp. n. One species, Parastephanellus matsumotoi van Achterberg, 2006, is newly recorded from China.
The following 9 new synonyms are proposed: Foenatopus aratifrons Enderlein, 1913 and F. yunnanensis Chao, 1964, new synonymys for F. annulitarsus Enderlein, 1913; F. cerviculatus (Chao, 1964) and F. chaoi Belokobylskij, 1995 for F. chinensis (Elliott, 1919); F. formosanus Enderlein, 1913 for F. cinctus (Matsumura, 1912); F. simillimus (Elliott, 1920) and F. trilineatus (Elliott, 1920) for F. flavidentatus (Enderlein, 1913); F. trilobatus (Elliott, 1920) for F. ruficollis (Enderlein, 1913); Parastephanellus austrochinensis Belokobylskij, 1995 for P. brevistigma Enderlein, 1913. A lectotype is designated for Diastephanus trilineatus Elliott, 1920.

The herpetofauna of Timor-Leste: a first report
Fieldwork conducted throughout Timor-Leste in September 2004 and July 2009 resulted in a collection or recording of 263 herpetological specimens (100 amphibians, 163 reptiles), comprising at least seven species of frogs and toads, 20 species of lizards, seven species of snakes, two species of turtles, and one species of crocodile. Among the amphibians, the most frequently encountered species were toads (Duttaphrynus melanostictus), rice paddy frogs (genus Fejervarya), and rhacophorid treefrogs (Polypedates cf. leucomystax). All three variants of rice paddy frogs encountered represent undescribed species similar to F. verruculosa from neighboring Wetar Island. Records of F. cancrivora and F. limnocharis for Timor Island are apparently errors based on misidentification. We obtained voucher specimens for a total of 147 lizards and voucher photographs only for four specimens of Varanus timorensis. Aside from geckos frequently associated with human habitations (e.g., Gehyra mutilata, Gekko gecko, Hemidactylus frenatus, H. platyurus), we discovered an as yet undescribed species of bent-toed gecko, genus Cyrtodactylus, in the Same valley. Our specimens of H. platyurus are the first record of this species from Timor-Leste. Commonly encountered skinks included four-fingered skinks (genus Carlia), wedge skinks (genus Sphenomorphus), and night skinks (genus Eremiascincus). Notable among the 15 snakes collected was the frequency of pitvipers (Cryptelytrops insularis), which amounted to over 25% of all snakes. Our specimen of the wolfsnake Lycodon subcinctus is the first record of this species for Timor-Leste. Based on these findings, it appears that the biodiversity of amphibians and reptiles in this remote corner of Wallacea is much greater than previously thought, particularly with respect to scincid lizards. The detail we provide in the species accounts is designed to allow the use of this report as a preliminary field guide to the amphibians and reptiles of Timor-Leste. However, survey work is ongoing.
["herpetofauna"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Two new species of Andean gymnophthalmid lizards of the genus Euspondylus (Reptilia, Squamata) from central and southern Peru
Two new species of lizards assigned to the genus Euspondylus from the montane forests of the Peruvian Andes in the Pasco Department (central Peru) and Ayacucho Department (southern Peru) both at elevations of 2550 and 3450 m, respectively, are described. The new species are distinguishable from all other Peruvian and Ecuadorian species of Euspondylus by a unique combination of morphometric, scalation and color pattern characteristics. Natural history data for the new species and for E. spinalis are also provided.
["Euspondylus"]

A new species of Andean toad (Bufonidae, Osornophryne) discovered using molecular and morphological data, with a taxonomic key for the genus
Combining a molecular phylogeny and morphological data, we discovered a new species of Osornophryne from the Amazonian slope of the Ecuadorian Andes. Morphologically, the new taxon is distinguished from all others species in Osornophryne bythe Toes IV and V longer than Toes I–III, a short and rounded snout with a small rostral papilla, and conical pustules on flanks. The new species previously was confused with O. guacamayo. A taxonomic key is provided for all known species of Osornophryne.

A new Stenoloba Staudinger species from China (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Bryophilinae)
A new species of Stenoloba, S. viridicollar sp. n. (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) is described from Sichuan, China. Illustrations of adults and the genitalia of both sexes are provided. A diagnostic comparison is made with Stenoloba rufosagitta Kononenko & Ronkay, 2001 and S. rufosagittoides Han & Kononenko, 2009.

Notes on the genus Ismarus Haliday (Hymenoptera, Diapriidae) from China
The genus Ismarus Haliday, 1835 from China is revised for the first time. Three species from Oriental region of China are described and illustrated as new species: Ismarus longus sp. n., Ismarus nigritrochanter sp. n. and Ismarus parvicellus sp. n., with two species: Ismarus dorsiger (Halidy, 1831) and Ismarus halidayi Foerster, 1850 are newly recorded from Chinese fauna. A key to the Chinese species is provided. All type specimens are deposited in the Hymenoptera Collection of South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou (SCAU).
["Ismarinae"]

Technomyrmex montaseri sp. n., a new ant species of the T. gibbosus-group from Oman (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) with a key to the Technomyrmex species of the Arabian Peninsula
Technomyrmex montaseri sp. n. is described and illustrated from Oman based on the worker caste collected in Bani Sur. It belongs to the Technomyrmex gibbosus-group, with closest resemblance to T. vexatus (Santschi, 1919) and T. gibbosus W. M. Wheeler, 1906. A key to the Arabian Technomyrmex is given.
["Technomyrmex"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

Record of the invasive alien ladybird Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from Kenya
The biological control agent and alien invasive ladybird Harmonia axyridis (Pallas, 1773) was recorded for the first time in Kenya, and in equatorial Africa, in 2010.
["Multicolored Asian Ladybird"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

New myrmecomorphous longhorned beetles from Haiti and the Dominican Republic with a key to Anaglyptini and Tillomorphini of Hispaniola (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae)
First records of the tribes Anaglyptini and Tillomorphini (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Cerambycinae) are documented for Hispaniola. A new genus of a highly myrmecomorphic longhorned beetle (Licracantha gen. n.) is described and illustrated based on one species (Licracantha formicaria sp. n.) and provisionally assigned to Tillomorphini. Three other new species of ant mimic longhorned beetles are described and illustrated: Calliclytus macoris sp. n. (Tillomorphini), Tilloclytus baoruco sp. n., and Tilloclytus neiba sp. n. (Anaglyptini). An identification key and distribution map to all known Hispaniolan species of these two tribes are presented.

Monomorium dryhimi sp. n., a new ant species (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) of the M. monomorium group from Saudi Arabia, with a key to the Arabian Monomorium monomorium-group
A new ant species, Monomorium dryhimi, is described based on workers from a single colony collected in Al Bahah, Asir Province, Saudi Arabia. This is the fourth species of the Monomorium monomorium-group collected from Arabian Peninsula, and appears to be closely related to Monomorium holothir Bolton, 1987, from Kenya. It can be distinguished by the following characters: head in profile with a weakly convex dorsal surface and a clearly convex ventral surface; eyes of moderate size with maximum diameter EL 0.19–0.25 × HW and with 6 ommatidia in the longest row; body colour yellow to light brownish yellow. In some individuals, head and gaster slightly but conspicuously darker than rest of body. Second halves of first and second gastral tergites with two characteristic brownish transverse bands. An identification key to the workers of the Arabian species of the Monomorium monomorium-group is presented. Scanning electron micrographs are given to illustrate the new species.

Checklist of pioneer benthic taxa found on Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) in Terra Nova Bay (Ross Sea, Antarctica)
Benthic communities studies in the Southern Ocean highlight their potential for assessing climate and anthropogenic impacts. However, the lack of standardised methods limits result reliability and interpretation. This dataset presents the first checklist focus on the Antarctic pioneer benthic communities collected using a standardised approach such as Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) located at 25 m depth in the surroundings of the Italian research station "Mario Zucchelli" (MZS) in the Terra Nova Bay (TNB) area of the Ross Sea, Antarctica. The data encompass ARMS time series corresponding to deployments of 1, 2, 3 and 5 years, from which 277 occurrence data corresponding to 12 phyla, 43 families, 49 genera and 39 species were obtained. All retrieved specimens are curated by the Italian National Antarctic Museum (MNA, section of Genoa). This dataset is a contribution to the Antarctic Biodiversity Portal, the thematic Antarctic node for both the Ocean Biogeographic Information System (AntOBIS) and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility Antarctic Biodiversity Information Facility (ANTABIF). The dataset was uploaded and integrated with the SCAR-AntOBIS database under the licence CC-BY 4.0. Please follow the guidelines from the SCAR Data Policy (ISSN 1998-0337) when using the data. If you have any questions regarding this dataset, please contact us via the contact information provided in the metadata or via data-biodiversity-aq@naturalsciences.be. Issues with the dataset can be reported at the biodiversity-aq GitHub project.We describe the biodiversity of the Antarctic pioneer benthic communities of TNB sampled using the ARMS installed at the Italian research station "Mario Zucchelli". ARMS is a standardised, reproducible and comparable method for quantifying biodiversity. This dataset provides essential baseline data on the occurrence and abundance of pioneer benthic communities in this study area, representing an important contribution for understanding the dynamics of benthic pioneer communities in an area where these structures have never been deployed and, in general, for an exposure time that largely exceed the standard one, which is usually of one year only.The 277 occurrences reported here have been classified at the lowest possible taxonomic level and comprise 39 recognised species, 49 genera and 43 families. Approximately 98% of the samples are stored in 96% ethanol, while the others at -20°C, representing a potential resource for future genetic studies. To date, the entire ARMS collection has not been DNA barcoded, although preliminary metabarcoding analyses have already been published in Cecchetto et al. (2024). Outcomes of the barcoding activity will be the target of another future publication (Cometti et al., in prep). The publication of this data paper was funded by the Belgian Science Policy Office (BELSPO, contract n°FR/36/AN1/AntaBIS) in the framework of EU-Lifewatch as a contribution to the SCAR Antarctic Biodiversity Portal (bio diversity.aq).
["distributional occurrences"]

Re-description, systematics and complete mitochondrial genome of Philhelius coreanus (Shiraki, 1930) (Diptera, Syrphidae) in the Republic of Korea
The hoverfly Philhelius coreanus (Shiraki, 1930) was first described, based on only Korean male specimens and subsequent descriptions of the female from Russia did not include discussions of phenotypic variation. Furthermore, full-length mitochondrial genome sequences for the genus are lacking.To address these gaps, we here provide a diagnosis, re-description and mitochondrial genome of Philhelius coreanus (Shiraki, 1930). We evaluated genitalic characters of both males and females with colour photographs and they showed intraspecific variation. There was significant variation in the yellow spots on the pleuron, particularly in females. After obtaining the complete mitochondrial genome of P. coreanus, we performed a phylogenetic analysis using Maximum Likelihood, based on 13 protein-coding genes, with a focus on relationships within the tribe Syrphini. Our results supported the monophyly of Syrphini, showing a sister-group relationship between Philhelius and Doros Meigen, 1822. Furthermore, the Philhelius + Doros clade was closely related to the Chrysotoxum + Dideopsis clade, with relatively high support. The newly-obtained mitochondrial genome of P. coreanus and high-resolution phylogenetic analysis provide essential resources for further analyses of the genus and relationships within Syrphini.
["hoverfly"]

Pycnogonida collection of the Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences
This dataset comprises detailed information on 2,134 Pycnogonida specimens stored in the Ocean Benthic Fauna collection (collection code: OBFc) of the Shirshov Institute of Oceanology (IORAS). These specimens were collected over a span of 77 years, since 1947, from 996 distinct localities across various regions of the World Ocean.The IORAS Pycnogonida collection stands out for its wide range of Pycnogonida species, including both common and exceptionally rare specimens, some of which are unique to this collection. This diversity makes the dataset an invaluable resource for taxonomists, ecologists and marine biologists, particularly those studying sea spiders. By providing comprehensive data on species distribution and diversity, the collection plays a key role in advancing our understanding of these intriguing marine arthropods. It serves as a vital reference for scientific research, aiding in species identification, the study of ecological relationships and the analysis of biogeographic patterns worldwide.The whole Pycnogonida collection of the Shirshov Institute of Oceanology has undergone a meticulous revision and digitisation process to compile a comprehensive dataset on the geographic, bathymetric and taxonomic specimen distribution. This effort includes the documentation and imaging of the type collection as well as of rare and unique records. The resulting dataset serves as a valuable resource for a variety of scientific disciplines, including taxonomic studies, biodiversity research and biogeographic analyses. This dataset contributes to our understanding of marine biodiversity and the distribution patterns of Pycnogonida across different oceanic regions and depths.
["marine fauna"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

Resampling a carrion beetle fauna after 40 years (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Silphinae, and Leiodidae, Cholevinae)
From 29 May until 5 June 1982, the first author placed baited pitfall traps to sample the Staphylinidae, Silphinae and Leiodidae, Cholevinae (Coleoptera) fauna in a mixed forest in the Netherlands. Exactly 40 years later (29 May until 5 June 2022), as a project on insect declines with high school students at a nearby school, a resampling was carried out.We report the silphine and cholevine specimens recorded both in 1982 and 2022. We found that total species richness and biomass had not noticeably changed, but there were some distinct appearances and disappearances of species. In addition, the species abundance distribution has become more skewed in favour of locally common species, such as Sciodrepoides watsoni and Fissocatops westi. We discuss our results in the context of insect declines worldwide.
["carrion trapping"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Faunistic study of Coleoptera (Buprestidae, Carabidae, Cerambycidae, Lucanidae and Melyridae) on Gageodo Island, south-westernmost Korean Peninsula
The Korean Archipelago consists of more than 3,348 islands, many of which have an intact biodiversity. Gageodo Island, which is the south-westernmost island in the Peninsula, is characterised by floristic and faunistic features that are distinct from those of the mainland, making it of biogeographical and ecological interest. However, due to the difficulties associated with surveying this Island, it remains under-investigated. In particular, the Island's coleopteran fauna remains poorly understood.In this study, the authors surveyed Buprestidae (jewel beetles), Carabidae (ground beetles), Cerambycidae (longhorn beetles), Lucanidae (stag beetles) and Melyridae (soft-winged flower beetles) on Gageodo Island. Each species was identified and ecological notes were recorded. To update the coleopteran list for the Island, previous studies that examined samples from Gageodo Island were compiled and organised. As a result, 31 species and three families were recorded on the Island for the first time, for a total of 93 species within 16 families. Of these, the melyrid species, Intybia tsushimensis (Satô & Ohbayashi, 1968) is reported for the first time in the Korean Peninsula. This study contributes to understand the coleopteran fauna of the biogeographically important Island in Korea and will serve as a foundational piece for understanding the fauna of Gageodo.
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of supergiant Bathynomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 (Isopoda: Cirolanidae) from the Paracel Islands, South China Sea
Bathynomus paracelensis sp. nov., a medium-sized supergiant Bathynomus, is described from specimens obtained at Zhengbin fishing port in Keelung, Taiwan and had been caught in the water near Paracel Islands, South China Sea. Due to its similar shape to B. jamesi, this species has often been mistaken for juveniles or immatures of B. jamesi by fishermen working in this area. Species of Bathynomus can be distinguished morphologically and genetically. The differences from B. jamesi are in the shorter body, clypeus shape, uropod endopod and gene sequence. The difference from B. vaderi is in the body shape, clypeus shape, hook number of maxilliped endite and spines number of maxilulla. Based on the morphological and genetic data results, the specimen is a hitherto undescribed species. The samples were collected as a bycatch species in the deep-sea bottom trawl fishery. The distribution area and depth of this new species and population size are still unclear.B. paracelensis sp. nov. is the third supergiant Bathynomus discovered in the South China Sea after B. jamesi and B. vaderi. Its remarkable feature is its short body length and sub-parallel shape. In addition, it is different from B. jamesi and B. vaderi in features such as clypeus shape, number of maxillula keratinised spine and pleotelson spine almost straight. Phylogenetic and barcoding gap analyses confirm that B. paracelensis sp. nov. is not the same species as B. jamsei. Many morphological differences also indicate that it should be a different species from B. vaderi. B. paracelensis sp. nov. may be an intermediate species between giant and supergiant, possessing characteristics of both categories, which can increase researchers' understanding of Bathynomus biodiversity.
["Cirolanidae"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

The hoverflies of the Dauzet collection at the Musée des Confluences in Lyon (Diptera, Syrphidae)
Maurice Dauzet collected hoverflies mainly in Loire and Haute-Loire from 1980 to 2017. Here, we provide the data from his hoverfly collection and card records, in order to support efforts towards a better understanding of the changing distribution of pollinators.The hoverflies from the Dauzet collection includes 1302 specimens and 423 additional records written on cards, totalling 1725 data of 221 species. Data from these specimens and records are presented here, with date of capture and location details. The collection contains specimens of species endangered at the European level: Cheilosia gagatea, Epistrophe leiophthalma, Paragus albifrons and Paragus finitimus. The Dauzet collection adds 81 species data to the known departmental distribution of the hoverflies of France. This revision invalidates data on eight species in the Loire Department previously published by Maurice Dauzet.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Historical Studies and Socio-cultural Analysis"]

First records of genera Chrysopera Hampson, 1894 and Entomogramma Guenée, 1852 of the subfamily Erebinae (Lepidoptera, Erebidae) from South Korea
The taxonomic status of two genera—Chrysopera and Entomogramma—within the subfamily Erebinae is still up for debate. This is because there are not many thorough phylogenetic studies based on large sampling and the Erebinae is one of the most speciose subfamilies of Lepidoptera with a high degree of diversity. They also lack in-depth comparative studies with morphologically related species.Two little-known genera Chrysopera Hampson, 1894 and Entomogramma Guenée, 1852 are reported for the first time in Korea, based on C. combinans (Walker, 1858) and E. fautrix (Guenée, 1852). Illustrations of adults and genitalia are presented.
["erebine moths"]

Re-description of Euryeidon consideratum Dankittipakul & Jocqué, 2004 (Araneae, Zodariidae), with a first description of the male
Euryeidon consideratum Dankittipakul & Jocqué, 2004 was described, based on a single female from Doi Luang National Park, Thailand and no additional specimens have been recorded since.Euryeidon consideratum is re-described and illustrated, based on new material from Xishuangbanna, China. The male is described and illustrated for the first time. In addition, this paper further illustrates the female and provides a supplementary description, confirming that the median plate of the epigyne is absent in this species, rather than broken off as suggested in the original publication. The distribution map of this species is given.
["new record"]
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

Re-description of Sinopoda curva Zhong, Jäger, Chen & Liu, 2019 (Araneae, Sparassidae), with a first description of the female
Sinopoda Jäger, 1999 is a relatively large spider genus that currently comprises 141 species distributed worldwide. However, the genus remains inadequately studied because nearly half of the species are known from a single sex or juvenile specimens. Sinopoda curva Zhong, Jäger, Chen & Liu, 2019 was described, based on two male specimens from Damingshan National Nature Reserve, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China and no additional specimens have been recorded since.Recently, new materials of huntsman spiders have been collected from Mt. Wuyishan, including specimens of both sexes. Several males were identified as S. curva, based on morphological comparison with the holotype. Based on morphological characters and DNA barcodes, we confidently matched the females and males as S. curva. Herein, S. curva is re-described, based on these new materials and the female is described and illustrated for the first time.

New caddisfly records (Insecta, Trichoptera) for Montenegro and Ecoregion 5, Dinaric Western Balkans: distributional and ecological insights
The level of knowledge about the caddisfly fauna of Montenegro remains limited compared to that of some other countries in the Balkan Peninsula due to fewer systematic studies and historical gaps in data collection.Adult caddisfly specimens were collected from the Zeta River in Montenegro during July and October 2024. Additionally, caddisfly data from Montenegro derived from a small, previously unprocessed collection of specimens collected in 2017 were included. Thirteen species belonging to six caddisfly families were identified. Three species are reported for the first time from Montenegro: Hydroptila angustata Mosely, 1939, Hydropsyche bulbifera McLachlan, 1878 and Potamophylax goulandriourum Malicky, 1974. All these three species are reported for the first time from Ecoregion 5, Dinaric Western Balkans. Additionally, a few other rarely recorded species in the Western Balkans, such as Hydropsyche modesta Navàs, 1925, Limnephilus graecus Schmid, 1965, Odontocerum albicorne (Scopoli, 1763) and Hydroptila sparsa Curtis, 1834, were documented. Notably, Limnephilus graecus was found during autumn, despite previously being reported only in spring and summer, suggesting a potential shift in its adult emergence patterns.These findings enhance our understanding of the distribution and diversity of several rare caddisfly species, particularly with the new records for Montenegro and Ecoregion 5, Dinaric Western Balkans. They underscore the critical need for further research and conservation efforts to support freshwater biodiversity in this region.
["caddisflies"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Two new species of Monodontomerus (Hymenoptera, Torymidae) from the Pacific Northwest of North America and a revised key to the genus
The genus Monodontomerus Westwood, 1833 (Hymenoptera, Torymidae) is distributed throughout the Globe, mostly in the Holarctic Region. Members of this genus are prolific parasitoids of pollinators and some are economically important. The New World fauna includes 25 described species and was revised 25 years ago.Two new species of parasitoid wasp, Monodontomerus rhinokopia Chitty and Duran sp. nov. and Monodontomerus verdigris Chitty and Duran sp. nov. (Torymidae, Monodontomerinae) are described from the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Monodontomerus rhinokopia may be differentiated from other species in the genus by simultaneously possessing the following combination of characteristics: a face not bulging in profile, malar sulcus well defined and straight (Fig. 5), F1-F7 subquadrate (Fig. 7), longitudinal irregular carinae on its dorsellum (Fig. 8), sculpture of mesepimeron confined to ventral margin (Fig. 5), apical rim of scutellum produced posteriorly and not emarginate, costal cell on anterior margin above with row in distal half and lacking setae basally, dorsal admarginal setae reaching both marginal vein and parastigma (Fig. 6) and Mt1 reticulately sculptured dorsally. Monodontomerus verdigris may be differentiated from other members of the genus by simultaneously possessing the following characteristics: F1-F7 subquadrate (Fig. 3), striation in the anterodorsal corner of the mesepimeron which does not reach transepimeral sulcus (Fig. 1), carina of dorsellum which splits into two distinct carinae that form an open “V” (Fig. 4), median depression of propodeum narrowly triangular to nucha which it intercepts with nearly parallel lateral margins, a projecting rim of the scutellum which is not emarginated and a reticulately textured Mt1 (Fig. 2). A revised key to the New World species of Monodontomerus has been created to enable identification of these species.

A new genus and species of feather duster worm (Annelida, Sabellidae) from shallow hydrocarbon seeps in the Gulf of Mexico
Sabellid species are known to have a broad depth distribution and have been reported from various deep-sea habitats, including chemosynthetic systems. Despite this presence, only two species have been identified from deep water chemosynthetic habitats and only one has been identified to species. When examining hydrocarbon seep systems along the Upper Louisiana Slope in the Gulf of Mexico, we observed an abundant sabellid species new to science. The characters for the collected specimens did not match any existing genus.The description for the new sabellid genus and species are presented, supported by external morphology and DNA sequence data (cytochrome c oxidase I). Seepicola viridiplumi gen. nov., sp. nov. are gregarious, facultative hyper-epibionts within the examined methane seep communities and, seemingly, have a blend of morphological features of the genera Perkinsiana and Pseudopotamilla. Specimens also have several distinctive characters including the presence of a pair of peristomial chambers between the ventral lappets and parallel lamellae and the short, button-like shape of the radiolar tips. Abundance estimates for S. viridiplumi gen. nov., sp. nov. within the seep habitats are also presented.
["Upper Louisiana Slope"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Descriptions of hitherto unknown larvae of the genus Hydropsyche Pictet, 1834 from China (Trichoptera, Hydropsychidae)
Hydropsyche Pictet, 1834 is the largest genus of Hydropsychinae. In China, larval descriptions exist for only about 20 species. Although the number of Hydropsyche larvae described in China has increased rapidly in recent years, larvae of more than 75% of Chinese Hydropsyche species remain unknown.In this paper, we describe and illustrate the larvae of Hydropsyche briareus Malicky & Chantaramongkol, 2000 and Hydropsyche kozhantschikovi Martynov, 1924 for the first time. Neighbour-joining trees were reconstructed, based on known partial Hydropsyche species mtCOI barcodes.

A barcode database for insects associated with the spread of the Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease in Côte d’Ivoire
Swollen Shoot is a viral disease affecting cocoa trees, transmitted by several species of mealybugs (Insecta, Hemiptera, Sternorrhyncha, Pseudococcidae). These insects maintain trophobiotic relationships with a complex and species-rich assemblage of ants protecting them and natural enemies controlling their populations. Here, we provide a curated DNA barcode database to characterise this insect community. Systematic observation of 7,500 cocoa trees was conducted, coupled with the collection of mealybug colonies and associated insect communities (parasitoids, predators and ants). Natural enemies were reared from mealybug colonies collected from 1,430 cocoa trees. Specimens were identified morphologically and sequenced for fragments of the standard DNA barcode region of the COI. We recovered 17 species of mealybugs from the family Pseudococcidae. Amongst these species, eight are new to the Ivorian cocoa orchard: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes Beardsley, Ferrisia dasylirii (Cockerell), Maconellicoccus ugandae (Laing), Paracoccus marginatus Williams & Granara de Willink, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, Planococcus minor (Maskell), Pseudococcus concavocerarii James and Pseudococcus occiduus De Lotto. Three of these species were identified for the first time in cocoa orchards in Africa: D. neobrevipes, Fe. dasylirii and Ph. solenopsis. A total of 54 ant species were identified and represented the first record of these species associated with mealybug colonies in cocoa in Côte d’Ivoire. Amongst the species associated with the mealybugs, 22 primary parasitoids, eight hyperparasitoids, 11 ladybirds beetles (Coccinellidae), seven gall midges (Cecidomyidae), one predatory lepidopteran species and four spider species were identified. Nine species of mealybugs parasitoids are newly recorded in the African cocoa orchards: Acerophagus aff. dysmicocci, Aloencyrtus sp., Anagyrus kamali, Anagyrus aff. pseudococci, Aenasius advena, Clausenia aff. corrugata, Gyranusoidea aff. tebygi, Zaplatycerus aff. natalensis (Encyrtidae) and Coccophagus pulvinariae (Aphelinidae) and one hyperparasitoid, Pachyneuron muscarum (Pteromalidae). For Côte d’Ivoire in particular, besides the previously mentioned nine parasitoids and one hyperparasitoid, five additional species are recorded for the first time, including four primary parasitoids, Blepyrus insularis (Encyrtidae), Clausenia corrugata (Encyrtidae), Clausenia sp. (Encyrtidae), and Coccidoctonus pseudococci (Encyrtidae) and one hyperparasitoid, Cheiloneurus cyanonotus (Encyrtidae). These results significantly enhance the knowledge of the diversity of the entomofauna associated with Swollen Shoot disease and pave the way for developing control methods based on the natural regulation of its mealybug (Pseudococcidae) vectors.
["Research on scale insects", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

Ants (Insecta, Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from the Floresta da Tijuca sector, Parque Nacional da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Ants (Insecta, Hymenoptera, Formicidae) are social insects and one of the most abundant groups of animals. Their colonies are established in a wide range of habitats, such as in cavities in the ground, litter on the forest floor or in rocky cracks. Currently, there are approximately 15,000 valid species of ants, of which about 6,000 are recorded from the Neotropical Region. The Atlantic Forest is one of the biomes with the greatest biodiversity, showing a high degree of endemism. However, it has suffered severe impacts and is now reduced to a fraction of the original area. One of the most significant remnants of the Atlantic Forest is the Parque Nacional da Tijuca (PNT), a protected area located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. There is limited knowledge about the myrmecofauna of the PNT, with most research efforts focused on the Serra da Carioca sector.In the present study, we performed the first inventory of the mirmecofauna of the Floresta da Tijuca sector of the PNT, using pitfall traps and Winkler extractors in areas with three different degrees of preservation. In total, 80 species are recorded from Floresta da Tijuca, of which 18 are reported for the first time from this sector, 37 from the PNT, 10 from the State of Rio de Janeiro and one from the Atlantic Forest biome. These results increase the known diversity of ants of the PNT from 149 to 200 species. Furthermore, the known geographic distribution of Hypoponera viri (Santschi, 1923) is extended northwards, those of Holcoponera mina Brown, 1956 and Neocerapachys neotropicus Weber, 1939, southwards and Brachymyrmex bruchi Forel, 1912 and Hypoponera parva (Forel, 1909), eastwards. The most abundant species in our samples was Holcoponera moelleri (Forel, 1912), followed by Pachycondyla striata F. Smith, 1858, Strumigenys denticulata Mayr, 1887, Hypoponera trigona (Mayr, 1887), Megalomyrmex goeldii Forel, 1912 and Hylomyrma reitteri (Mayr, 1887). The primary forest area was the richest, followed by the disturbed and advanced restoration areas. The species richness was higher in the primary forest and advanced restoration areas during the dry season, while it was higher in the disturbed area during the rainy season.
["Biome", "Hymenoptera", "Biodiversity", "Geography", "Ecology", "Habitat", "Endemism", "National park", "Atlantic forest", "Floristics", "Range (aeronautics)", "Forestry", "Species richness", "Biology", "Ecosystem"]

First release of the European marine omics biodiversity observation network (EMO BON) shotgun metagenomics data from water and sediment samples
The European Marine Omics Biodiversity Observation Network (EMO BON) is an initiative of the European Marine Biological Resource Centre (EMBRC) to establish a persistent genomic observatory amongst designated European coastal marine sites, sharing the same protocols for sampling and data curation. Environmental samples are collected from the water column and, at some sites, soft sediments and hard substrates (Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures - ARMS), together with a set of mandatory and discretionary metadata (including Essential Ocean Variables - EOVs). Samples are collected following standardised protocols at regular and specified intervals and sequenced in large six-monthly batches at a centralised sequencing facility. The use of standard operating procedures (SOPs) during data collection, library preparation and sequencing aims to provide uniformity amongst the data collected from the sites. Coupled with strict adherence to open and FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles, this ensures maximum comparability amongst samples and enhances reusability and interoperability of the data with other data sources. The observatory network was launched in June 2021, when the first sampling campaign took place.
["Metagenomics", "Comparability", "Interoperability", "Biobank", "Metadata", "Sampling (signal processing)", "Biodiversity", "Environmental monitoring", "Environmental resource management", "Environmental science", "Computer science", "Biology", "Ecology", "World Wide Web", "Bioinformatics", "Telecommunications"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Anthophilous insects' seasonal variation in Corsican thermo-Mediterranean shrubland maquis
In any ecosystems, seasonality is a key factor conditioning the temporal variation on an annual scale in combination with differences in the organism phenology. This seasonality is marked in the Mediterranean Region with four contrasting seasons: a hot, dry summer, a mild winter and sometimes a very rainy spring and autumn. With a large surface area and its large range of habitats from seaside to alpine biotopes, Corsica Island represents a biodiversity hotspot with a high rate of endemism. Amongst diverse groups, insects, notably the main orders of pollinators composed of Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera and Lepidoptera, represent a large proportion of the insular richness.Our sampling effort focused on the insects from these four orders visiting flowers in a characteristic thermo-Mediterranean vegetation. Our database is an insight into the Corsican anthophilous insects biodiversity from three sites separated by a few kilometres in the region of Ajaccio (SW Corsica) during nine consecutive months in 2023, completing our database for the year 2022 published in this journal. In total, 3714 specimens were sampled in 2023 and 311 species or morpho-species identified from 154 genera and 50 families. Coleoptera were by far the most abundant order representing about 54% of the sampled specimens. The most diverse order was the Hymenoptera representing 44% of the species. Our continuous survey has shown that these orders vary between seasons both in terms of abundance and diversity, resulting in changing communities.
["Floral visitors"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Updated list of Tersilochinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) of Italy
The subfamily Tersilochinae is a small taxon that accounts for about 60 species in Italy. However, the current checklist of the group is incomplete and listed records are often imprecise.An updated checklist of the Italian Tersilochinae is provided. Three species are new additions to the Italian fauna, while three others are first records for southern Italy. Additionally, Aneuclis pusilla Masi, 1933 is reported as a junior synonym of Aneuclis melanaria (Holmgren, 1860) syn. nov. This update raises the total number of Tersilochinae species in Italy to 77.
["Aneuclis"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

New distribution records of wild bees (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) in South Tyrol (Italy): expanding the wild bee database
Throughout South Tyrol, in northern Italy, there is a data deficiency relating to wild bee species pool. Here, we present significant findings from the collection of 3,313 wild bees gathered over two separate studies conducted in consecutive years. Our research focused on the impact of landscape heterogeneity, temperature and land-use change on wild bee communities and their pollination services in an agricultural and mountainous landscape. This article provides a detailed account of the 150 identified wild bee species collected using coloured pan traps. We report habitat type, occurrence data, threat status, sociality, nesting strategy and diet breadth. In Italian regions where information on wild bee distribution is lacking or outdated, sharing data is crucial for developing conservation policies.The compiled species list strengthens regional and national wild bee database by providing new distribution data for extinction-threatened species, such as Dufourea dentiventris (Nylander, 1848), Dufourea inermis (Nylander, 1848), Lasioglossum brevicorne (Schenck, 1870), Lasioglossum laevigatum (Kirby, 1802), Lasioglossum monstrificum (Morawitz, 1891), Nomada mutica Morawitz, 1872 and Nomada villosa Thomson, 1870. Additionally, we present recent findings of species that are valuable for understanding range expansions, recording species previously unreported in South Tyrol and updating historical data for the region.
["nature conservation"]

Population genetic data (COI, ddRAD) of Sialis lutaria (Insecta, Megaloptera) from the Emscher catchment (Germany)
In urban river systems, fragmentation of habitats and in-stream dispersal barriers play a major role in shaping the population genetic structure of freshwater macroinvertebrate species. In small, fragmented populations, effects of genetic drift and inbreeding are enhanced, which can lead to increased population differentiation and genetic diversity loss. One formerly strongly degraded and fragmented stream system in a highly urbanised area is the Emscher catchment in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Major restoration efforts have led to an improvement of water and habitat quality over the past 20 years also in the formerly polluted tributaries, for example, the Boye catchment. However, the analysis of the population structure of two different amphipod and isopod species has revealed that some populations are still strongly isolated, indicating persisting gene flow barriers. In contrast, the effects are expected to be less pronounced in merolimnic species, which have an adult winged life stage, such as the alderfly Sialis lutaria (Linnaeus, 1758) . However, this species was much less abundant in the Boye catchment and not found in adjacent catchments (only 9 of 41 sampling sites), reducing the power of possible analyses.As no population genetic studies of S. lutaria have to our knowledge been published so far and genetic resources are generally scarce for this species, we generated and present here population genetic data for 70 S. lutaria specimens for the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene and, more importantly, high resolution genomic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data for 71 specimens, generated with double-digest restriction site-associated sequencing (ddRAD-seq). These data can be valuable for further studies, analysing the population genetic structure, dispersal pathways and potential gene flow barriers for S. lutaria on a larger geographic scale. Additional to presenting the data, we also give first insights in the population structure on a small geographic scale (area of approx. 15 km2). While the population differentiation was generally low, as expected on this small scale, we still found that gene flow was not equally strong between all populations, but that one population played a central role as a source and sink population, which cannot only be explained by the distance between populations.
["population genetic structure"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Trachyphloeosoma rutiani sp. nov., a new species from Guangdong, China (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae)
From August to September 2024, we led a team of Guangzhou No.5 Binjiang Junior High School students to study the community structure of leaf litter beetles in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, southern China, to prepare for the Youth Innovation Competition hosted by the Guangzhou Education Bureau. In the study, 479 specimens were collected in total, identified as 73 species in 14 families. Amongst all the specimens, some are considered new species, one of which is described here.The genus Trachyphloeosoma Wollaston, 1869 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae, Trachyphloeini) includes six known species occurring in China and the genus is recorded in Guangdong Province for the first time.A new weevil, Trachyphloeosoma rutiani sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae), is described from Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, China. Important morphological characters of the new species are illustrated by colour plates.

Checklist of ichthyoplankton of NORI-D polymetallic nodule exploration claim (eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone) during winter 2021
There been increasing interest in polymetallic nodule mining within the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ). Polymetallic nodule mining within NORI-D will release a sediment plume within the water column and a previous mining collector test within the Nauru Ocean Resources Inc. (NORI-D) contract area released surface pollution from mining tailings. The mid-water plume, as well as accidental surface pollution, indicate that polymetallic nodule mining could impact surface plankton. Although the ichthyoplankton within the eastern tropical Pacific have been well-studied, recent data from within polymetallic nodule mining licence areas is lacking. Environmental Expedition C5e conducted an environmental baseline assessment of both pelagic and benthic fauna within the NORI-D region of the CCZ, which included the opportunistic collection of ichthyoplankton.Ichthyoplankton were collected within NORI-D from November–December 2021 using two plankton nets and a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Here, we present a checklist of ichthyoplankton within the NORI-D licence area during this winter campaign. Eighteen samples were collected and identified through morphology, with a limited number identified through genetic sequencing. Specimens were from five orders, including Argentiniformes, Stomiiformes, Myctophiformes, Beloniformes and Scombriformes. This checklist will aid contractors and scientists conducting work within the CCZ to examine how wastewater discharge from polymetallic nodule mining could impact fish reproduction and ichthyoplankton survival.
["Geochemistry and Elemental Analysis", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Re-description and dietary ecology of the Hylarana annamitica (Sheridan & Stuart, 2018) (Amphibia: Ranidae) from central Vietnam
The Annam Stream Frog Hylarana annamitica was recently discovered from north and central Vietnam and Laos by Sheridan and Stuart (2018). Knowledge of its natural history is virtually lacking.In this study, we provide an extended morphological description of Hylarana annamitica, based on newly-collected specimens from Vu Quang National Park, Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam. In addition, we present data on the diet of Hylarana annamitica, based on stomach content analyses of 46 individuals (32 males and 14 females) and compare prey selection between sexes. We found a total of 37 prey categories with 339 items, comprising 327 items of invertebrates, two items of vertebrates and 10 unidentified in the stomachs of H. annamitica. The most important (IRI) groups amongst the prey of H. annamitica were Coleoptera (17.19%), followed by Mantodea (14.78%), Orthoptera (11.26%), Lepidoptera (11.13%), Araneae (10.0%) and Blattodea (9.87%). There was an overlap of 45.63% in the diet between males and females and, in both sexes, the trophic spectrum was similar, predominantly consisting of Araneae, Coleoptera, Dermaptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Isoptera, Lepidoptera, Mantodea and Orthoptera.
["Invertebrates"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

A new species of the genus Petrobia Murray (Prostigmata, Tetranychidae) and complementary description of Petrobia cardi Chaudhri
A new species, Petrobia (Petrobia) pakistanensis sp. nov. is described and collected, based on females form wild grasses, from Pakistan. the species P. (Tetranychina) cardi Chaudhri, W.M., 1972 is re-described and illustrated, based on femles and male.Petrobia (Petrobia) pakistanensis sp. nov. (Prostigmata, Tetranychidae) is described and illustrated, based on female specimens collected from wild grasses (Poaceae) from Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. The male of P. (Tetranychina) cardi Chaudhri, reported for the first time, is described and illustrated. Additionally, the complementary description of females of this species is provided, based on a new collection.
["Tetranychina"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Study of Mite Species", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

First report of Trichopoda pictipennis (Diptera, Tachinidae) for the Canary Islands
The genus Trichopoda Berthold, 1827 is distributed in the Neotropical and Nearctic Regions and some species are very important for biological control. During the last decades, the species Trichopoda pictipennis Bigot, 1876 has received much attention. It is of Neotropical origin, but it has been introduced throughout the western Palaearctic, probably through exchanges that transported its main host, the 'southern green stink bug' Nezara viridula.Trichopoda pictipennis is reported for the first time from the Canary Islands. To date, this introduced species has been detected throughout the island of Tenerife and in a single locality on the island of La Gomera. This finding confirms that this species of Neotropical origin is expanding its range across the Palaearctic realm of this species of Neotropical origin. Parasitised Nezara viridula were collected and reared under laboratory conditions to document the complete life cycle of T. pictipennis. Its potential effects on its main host, as well as on the Canary fauna, are discussed.
["new records"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Woody flora of the Prof. Dr. Karl Arens Reserve, Corumbataí, São Paulo, Brazil
This study was conducted in the Prof. Dr. Karl Arens Reserve, Corumbataí, São Paulo. The area is a Cerrado fragment, with no records of fire since 1962 and is characterised by the predominance of Cerradão phytophysiognomy. Although several studies have been conducted in the Reserve, there was no testimony material for some species in the Herbarium Rioclarense (HRCB), nor a list of vouchers for any taxon in the main publications. Thus, the objective of this work was to undertake a floristic survey of the woody species in the Reserve, based on herbarium specimens and fieldwork.The survey in HRCB recorded 510 exsiccatae belonging to 160 species and 44 families. We also conducted 24 fieldwork expeditions between 2019 and 2021 and recorded 118 species in 39 families. In total, 193 woody species were recorded for the Reserve in Corumbataí. Species such as Copaifera langsdorffii and Myrcia neoclusiifolia had already been cited for the area, but there was no testimony material in the herbarium. Machaerium nyctitans and Alchornea glandulosa are examples of new records for the Reserve. Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Myrtaceae, Melastomataceae and Rubiaceae were the families with the greatest species diversity.
["Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Updates to the checklist of nocturnal Macroheterocera (Lepidoptera) of the Central High Atlas of Morocco: One new species added for Morocco
This paper provides updates to the checklist of Macroheteroceran moths (Lepidoptera) of the central High Atlas of Morocco, following the initial inventory conducted by Charles Rungs nearly five decades ago. Sampling was carried out using sugar bait traps deployed across various habitat types in the region (natural, semi-natural and agricultural lands). Identification of the collected specimens involved a comprehensive approach, including examination of external morphology, dissections of genitalia and DNA barcoding.In this study, we recorded a total of 123 species belonging to the families Noctuidae, Erebidae, Geometridae, Eutelidae and Drepanidae. Euxoa cos (Noctuidae) was recorded as a new species for Morocco. The presence of Apamea maroccana (Noctuidae) and Chersotis rungsi (Noctuidae), both endemic to Morocco, was verified in the study area. Four of the 123 species were only identified at the genus level. Our inventory also sheds light on species that were previously not known to occur within our study area, reporting twelve species from the High Atlas Mountains for the first time. We also suggest omitting Eupithecia farinosa (Geometridae) from the Moroccan Lepidoptera list. This study significantly contributes to uncovering an overlooked aspect of Lepidopteran biodiversity in Morocco, which is crucial for future conservation efforts.
["inventory"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Winter is (not) coming: Acoustic monitoring and temperature variation across important bat hibernacula
Little is known about the winter bat activity in Bulgaria, which poses challenges in monitoring potential deviations in their behaviour as a consequence of the warming climate. Using passive acoustic monitoring, we investigated the winter activity in some of Europe’s largest hibernacula. Our findings reveal cave and species-specific activity patterns. Activity was observed throughout each month of the survey, with distinct peaks on specific days. At one high-elevation site, bat activity was restricted to a single night, while the highest overall activity occurred at the highest elevation site (1325 m). The most active species was Myotis capaccinii (Bonaparte, 1837). While bats were mostly active right after sunset following their usual circadian rhythm, some daytime activity was also observed, including emergence at temperatures as low as -8°C. At sites with sufficient activity data, external temperature emerged as a significant positive predictor of bat activity, with higher temperatures associated with increased activity. Our data also suggest that bats rarely forage near the roost entrances. The observed variability in activity levels between study sites highlights the need for high-resolution, site-specific data rather than broad generalisations.
["winter activity"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview", "Effects of Environmental Stressors on Livestock"]

Quantifying diversity and growth form distribution of scleractinian corals, in Mangrove Bay, El Qoseir, Egypt
Coral reefs provide habitat for approximately 25% of all extant marine species, including 845 species of scleractinian corals. These rich ecosystems are becoming increasingly degraded in many regions by a range of anthropogenic factors, including recurrent bleaching episodes associated with rising sea surface temperatures. Within the northern Red Sea, coral reef communities appear to be faring relatively better than global trends and continue to exhibit remarkable diversity and thermal tolerance. However, recent reports of coral bleaching in the region highlight the urgent need for comprehensive ecological surveys to provide a baseline for long-term monitoring of biodiversity and potential species loss. This field report aims to support the tracking of diversity and growth form distributions of scleractinian corals at two reef sites at Mangrove Bay, El Qoseir, Egypt. Over time, it is our hope that such reports will contribute to broader databases and analyses focused on the biodiversity of reef-building coral species in the northern Red Sea.This study presents the first comprehensive checklist of scleractinian coral species (Scleractinia Bourne, 1900) in Mangrove Bay, El Qoseir, Egypt. As a result of our 2023 field survey, we identified a total of 68 species across 29 genera and 14 families, spanning six reef habitats — three per study site — at two study locations (sheltered and current-exposed), with depths ranging from 0 to 9.5 m. We found that both scleractinian coral diversity and coral growth forms varied amongst the six habitats. Branching corals were found in each habitat, but were particularly abundant at the current-exposed reef edge, where they covered 67% of the habitat. Encrusting and massive corals became more prevalent with increasing depth at both study sites, with massive corals covering 72% at the sheltered deeper reef slope and encrusting corals covering 24% at the current-exposed deeper reef slope. Species of the genus Porites dominated the sheltered site at all depths and the deeper reef slope at the current-exposed site, while Pocillopora verrucosa was most abundant at the exposed site’s reef edge and shallow slope.We provide photographs confirming these new records and access to the raw data on the abundance, distribution and conservation status of these taxa. Forty-three percent of the scleractinian species are classified as "Least Concern," but six are identified as "Vulnerable" (9%). Reef cover analyses revealed algae as the dominant group in most habitats, while scleractinian coral cover ranged between approximately 17% at the current-exposed reef edge and almost 35% at the current-exposed shallow reef slope. Millepora contributed the most at the exposed reef edge with nearly 28% cover, but was scarce elsewhere; soft corals exhibited their highest abundance on the deeper slope.Our observations serve as a critical baseline for future research and conservation efforts at Mangrove Bay by presenting an initial inventory of the local scleractinian communities and emphasise the importance of detailed species data in understanding and preserving coral reef ecosystems.
["coral reefs"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Pollinator species richness and abundance across diverse habitat-types on Terceira Island (Azores, Portugal)
Azorean biodiversity is relatively well-known following important scientific contributions during the last three decades. These have set a comprehensive species checklist for the Archipelago, improved significantly the knowledge on species abundance, ecology and distribution and have contributed to define priorities for conservation management and scientific research. Nevertheless, despite these efforts, a key functional group - the pollinators - remains poorly known in Azores, including their occurrence in different habitat-types and islands. Insect pollinators play a key ecological role and a valuable ecosystem service being crucial to having basic information on their abundance, distribution and ecology and a good knowledge on the status of their populations, if we aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of terrestrial ecosystems. Furthermore, island ecosystems are facing significant pressures from land-use and climatic changes and, from the increasing arrival of alien species to these remote areas, presenting a pressing need to assess the effects of these factors on island pollinators and pollination.Here, we present an inventory of the pollinator species found in different habitat-types of Terceira along a gradient of disturbance and encompassing 30 sites distributed throughout the island. We identified 2547 pollinators from 40 taxa, mostly dipterans and hymenopterans and recorded novel information on species distribution and ecological associations. A high number of taxa are native species, including three Azorean endemics, but 14 species are alien to the Archipelago. The use of a combination of standardised sampling techniques allowed us to collect information on diverse pollinator groups, but, most importantly, the data collected will contribute to assess the impacts of human activities on pollinator abundance and richness and support decision-making on habitat management for pollinators in the Azores.
["Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Tinodes lumbardhi sp. nov. (Trichoptera, Psychomyiidae), a new species from the Lumbardhi i Deçanit River in Kosovo
Knowledge about the caddisfly fauna of Kosovo has expanded significantly in recent years; however, new species continue to be described from less-studied regions.In this paper, we describe a new species, Tinodes lumbardhi sp. nov., from the Lumbardhi i Deçanit River in the Bjeshkët e Nemuna Mountains of Kosovo. The new species is closely related to Tinodes urdhva Olah, 2010 and Tinodes kimminsi Sykora, 1962, but differs in the shapes of segment IX, coxopodites, harpago, phallicata and the basal plate process.Tinodes lumbardhi sp. nov. represents the sixth recorded species of the genus Tinodes Curtis, 1834, in Kosovo. The species was found in a small, isolated population within a region highly impacted by anthropogenic activities, especially the construction of hydropower plants. Tinodes lumbardhi sp. nov. was found in sympatry with some species rarely encountered in Kosovo, such as Plectrocnemia geniculata McLachlan, 1871, Rhyacophila loxias Schmid, 1970 and Rhyacophila siparantum Ibrahimi, Bilalli & Kučinić, 2021. Ongoing human activities have placed increasing pressures on the river’s ecosystem, further emphasising the conservation importance of identifying and protecting these rare and specialised species within Kosovo’s freshwater habitats.
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Keiferia azapaensis sp. nov., the first representative of the New World micromoth genus Keiferia Busck (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae) associated with a member of Asteraceae
The New World micromoth genus Keiferia Busck, 1939 (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae, Gelechiinae, Gnorimoschemini) includes 21 described species, ten of which occur in South America. Like the tomato pinworm, K. lycopersicella (Walsingham, 1897), all the species of Keiferia, whose host plants have been documented, are associated exclusively with members of the family Solanaceae.Keiferia azapaensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated, based on adults reared from leaf miner larvae collected on the shrub Trixis cacalioides (Kunth) D. Don (Asteraceae) in the Atacama Desert, northern Chile. Despite this unusual host plant, a Maximum Likelihood analysis, based on mitochondrial DNA sequences, placed the new species within a well-supported Keiferia clade. The discovery of the trophic association between K. azapaensis sp. nov. and T. cacalioides represents the first record of a member of Asteraceae as a host plant for the micromoth genus Keiferia.
["Atacama Desert"]

Ecological insights on the feeding behaviour of waterbirds in an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area of South West Johor Coast, Malaysia
Mangroves and mudflats are essential intertidal habitats that support benthic communities, providing critical feeding grounds for waterbirds. However, the degradation of these habitats due to coastal reclamation poses significant threats to prey availability and waterbird populations along the South est Johor Coast. While most avian research in Johor focuses on forest birds, studies on coastal waterbirds, particularly their feeding ecology, remain scarce. Understanding the feeding ecology of waterbirds is crucial for strengthening conservation efforts in vulnerable intertidal habitats. This study investigated the feeding behaviour and diet composition of waterbirds along the South West Johor Coast, Malaysia. Fieldwork was conducted in three coastal mudflats from November 2020 to May 2021, employing the direct observation technique. A total of 576 hours of observation were recorded, averaging 2 hours and 19 minutes per focal observation. Of 17 waterbird species recorded, only 11 species were included in the analysis based on sufficient data. The results revealed that waterbirds primarily consumed fish, molluscs, worms, crabs and unidentified prey, with fish comprising 25% of their overall diet. Feeding behaviour varied significantly by morphology traits, with larger waterbirds demonstrating higher feeding efficiency. Despite lower feeding rates and shorter feeding durations, larger species had a greater percentage of successful feeding attempts, indicating their superior ability to meet energy requirements. These findings provide crucial baseline data for understanding waterbird feeding ecology and highlight the importance of conserving the intertidal habitats. This research contributes to the development of targeted conservation strategies for waterbirds in the Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) of the South West Johor Coast, Malaysia, an area increasingly at risk from habitat degradation.
["Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA)"]

Morphological and molecular identification of Particolored bat (Vespertilio murinus) in South Korea: A first record
BackgroundVespertilio murinus belong to the genus Vespertilio and are widely distributed in Europe, the Middle East and Northeast Asia, Recently, the presence of the V. murinus has been confirmed in Japan, suggesting the possibility of its habitation on the Korean Peninsula. However, ecological information regarding its presence in the Korean Peninsula is extremely limited.New informationIn an urban area of Sejong City, South Korea, a bat within the genus Vespertilio was rescued by personnel of the Chungnam Wild Animal Rescue Center. The bat, which was believed to have been hibernating on an exterior wall of a building, was initially identified as Vespertilio sinensis. However, the confirmed presence of two pairs of nipples raised the possibility that the bat was a specimen of V. murinus. The measurement of the forearm length (FAL) of this bat was 45.67 mm, which is within the 95% confidence interval of the previously reported FALs of V. murinus. Additionally, the results of mtDNA sequence analysis indicated that the rescued bat could be differentiated from the closely-related species V. sinensis with respect to the sequences of 13PCGs, COI, Cytb and ND1. Finally, phylogenetic analysis revealed that this bat clustered in a clade with previously described V. murinus. Collectively, these findings provided convincing evidence to indicate that the rescued individual was a V. murinus, marking the first recorded observation of this species in South Korea.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Rabies epidemiology and control", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

A new species of Raveniola Zonstein, 1987 (Araneae, Nemesiidae) from Fujian, China
The genus Raveniola Zonstein, 1987 comprises 66 species, distributed across regions from East Asia to the Caucasus, with about 20 species recorded from China. According to Zonstein et al. (2018) and Zonstein (2024), members of Raveniola can be identified by the presence of two to three retroventral megaspines arranged sequentially on tibia I in males and paired spermathecae in females, each bearing two-branched heads or a lateral diverticulum.A new mygalomorph species, Raveniola fuzhouensis Zhou, sp. nov., is described from Fujian Province, China. Detailed description, diagnosis, illustrations and a distribution map of the new species are provided.

Long-term monitoring data on Popillia japonica (Newman, 1838) (Coleoptera, Rutelidae) across the Azorean Islands
The Japanese Beetle, Popillia japonica Newman, 1838 (Coleoptera, Rutelidae), is a univoltine agricultural pest that poses a serious threat to various agricultural crops. For more than 16 years, the Azorean official authorities have implemented a Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) programme that is crucial for understanding the dynamics of insect pests, such as the Japanese Beetle, and their impacts on agricultural ecosystems. The significance of this long-term monitoring extends beyond understanding the pest's life cycle. By sharing this long-term monitoring data with the scientific community, we hope it allows for a more comprehensive assessment of P. japonica success and spread, enabling a deeper understanding of how this pest interacts and correlates with biotic and abiotic factors to uncover patterns and trends crucial for effective pest management.In the Azores Archipelago, P. japonica adults emerge from pupae at the end of May and peak in density by early July, persisting until October. Larvae develop through three instars, with the third instar grub pupating by early May. This lifecycle highlights the pest population's seasonal activity, including the timing of emergence, adult stages and larval stages. It reveals when and for how long the pest is active in each of its life stages and provides critical information for pest management strategies. Worldwide, this pest can cause damage to 414 plant species across 94 families, underscoring the potential for elevated crop damage. This information is invaluable for developing targeted intervention strategies and mitigating economic losses caused by P. japonica infestations. Therefore, establishing and maintaining long-term programmes for monitoring P. japonica populations are essential for scientific understanding and practical pest management efforts in the Azores Archipelago.The data presented here report the officials' records of a 16-year (from 2008 to 2023) long-term monitoring programme on P. japonica in the Azores Archipelago, undertaken by the Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação operational services. Based on the last checklist of Azorean arthropods, the species is recorded for the first time for the Corvo, Graciosa and São Jorge Islands.
["agriculture"]
["Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects"]

Lichen novelties from Corvo Island (Azores, Portugal)
Corvo is a small and remote island in the western group of the Azores Archipelago, Portugal. The Island's lichen biodiversity was largely understudied, with only 17 species documented to date.This study reports 68 new records of lichen species on Corvo Island, representing an addition of two classes, eight orders, 18 families and 43 genera. It includes three new records for the Azores: Acrocordia conoidea (Fr.) Körb., Chrysothrix flavovirens Tønsberg and Glaucomaria rupicola (L.) P.F. Cannon (syn. Lecanora rupicola (L.) Zahlbr.). Additionally, it confirms the presence of three species previously reported in the Archipelago without specific locations: Lecidea phaeops Nyl., Peltigera canina (L.) Willd. and Pertusaria ficorum Zahlbr. This wealth of new lichen species records greatly enriches our understanding of biodiversity and sets a solid groundwork for upcoming ecological investigations in the Azores Archipelago.
["Corvo Island"]

A survey of Hersilia spiders (Araneae, Hersiliidae) from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China
Hersilia Audouin, 1826 is the largest genus of the Hersiliidae Thorell, 1869, currently including 80 extant species that are widespread throughout most of forests of the Tropical realm. The tropical rainforest in Xishuangbanna is one of the most biodiversity-rich regions in China. However, Hersilia can be regarded as being poorly represented in Xishuangbanna, with only two recorded species so far.A survey was undertaken to study the hersiliids in Xishuangbanna. A total of four species are here addressed, raising from two to four the number of species of the genus Hersilia known to the area: H. striata Wang & Yin, 1985 and H. lelabah Rheims & Brescovit, 2004 that were recorded previously and H. asiatica Song & Zheng, 1982 (as well as the new record from Yunnan) and H. sumatrana (Thorell, 1890) that are recorded for the first time. Hersilia lelabah is re-described, based on new materials and the male is described and illustrated for the first time. Detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations for both sexes of H. lelabah are provided. The distribution map of these four species in Xishuangbanna is given.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

A new species of Mysidopsis (Crustacea, Mysida) from the Canary and Cape Verde archipelagos
Within the subfamily Leptomysinae (fam. Mysidae), the tribe Mysidopsini has five here acknowledged genera and 74 extant species. It embraces the genera Americamysis with six species from the coasts of the NW-Atlantic (Narragansett Bay to Florida), the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico; Brasilomysis with two species from the SW-Atlantic off Brazilian shores and from the Pacific coast of Ecuador; Cubanomysis with three species from the Caribbean, Gulf of California and southern California; Metamysidopsis with ten species from the Atlantic coasts of the USA to Brazil, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico and E-Pacific from California to Panama; and, finally, the globally occurring Mysidopsis. Not counting the below-described new species and one fossil species, the latter genus comprises 53 extant species and one non-nominotypical subspecies. With regard to the great number of species, this genus is comparatively homogeneous, not considering the monotypic subgenera Pseudomysidopsis and Mysidopsoides.Mysidopsis canariensis sp. nov. is described from five islands of the Canaries and two islands of the Cape Verdes (NE-Atlantic). Records are from depths of 5 to 30 m, mainly over sand, also on stones and rock. It differs from the remaining NE-Atlantic and Mediterranean congeners amongst other features by the lateral margins of the telson distally having a longer bare portion. Amongst these species, it differs from its northern vicariants M. iluroensis and M. gibbosa in addition by fewer spines on the endopod of uropods. In-situ-photos of M. canariensis sp. nov. document at least six strongly different colour variants, four of which are strikingly similar to corresponding variants of M. jenseni from the NE-Pacific coast. The latter differs from all species of the E-Atlantic, including the new one, by a mid-dorsal lappet near the caudal margin of the female carapace. A key to the species of Mysidopsis from the E-Atlantic and Mediterranean is given.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and environmental studies"]

The wild bees (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Anthophila) of the urban nature reserves of Rome (Italy, Latium): a preliminary survey
Urbanisation is a global phenomenon responsible for negative processes in natural ecosystems, such as degradation, loss of habitat and fragmentation. Large urban green areas could, however, represent shelter for animal species, promoting biodiversity conservation. Urban green spaces can also provide useful habitats for threatened species. Wild bees are amongst the most important and efficient pollinating insects and play an indispensable role in ecosystem functioning. Approximately half of the European wild bee species have been reported from Italy, making it a biodiversity hotspot for this group of insects. Many studies have been conducted on pollinating insects in recent years, but few data and incomplete knowledge on wild bee faunas in strictly urban environments exist. Georeferenced faunal data would be important for conservation efforts and understanding the effects that large cities such as Rome may have on the diversity of wild bee communities.This work focused on the diversity of wild bees in nature reserves belonging to the RomaNatura network within the urban area of Rome, Italy. A total of 208 wild bee species belonging to 36 genera and six families were identified. Amongst the species surveyed, one species was classified as Endangered (EN) and seven species were classified as Near Threatened (NT) by the European Red List of wild bees. Twenty-four species are new reports for the urban area of Rome. Sampling took place from April to September 2022. The most represented family in terms of abundance was Halictidae, accounting for 36% of all bees collected, followed by Apidae (24% of samples), Andrenidae (17% of samples), Megachilidae (15% of samples), Colletidae (7% of samples) and Melittidae (1% of samples). The Megachilidae family was the richest in terms of the number of species, accounting for 25% of the total species sampled. This research aimed to provide a set of standardised and georeferenced wild bee occurrences that constitute the baseline for any faunistic, ecological and conservation activity of Rome's nature reserves. In addition, the research aims to demonstrate the importance of large urban green areas in one of the largest European cities as biodiversity reservoirs for wild bees.

Checklist for the insect fauna of two East Sea Islands (Ulleungdo Is. and Dokdo Is.) in the Republic of Korea
Ulleungdo and Dokdo, located in the East Sea, are volcanic islands with high ecological value due to their unique biodiversity. Although research on the insect fauna on these two Islands has been conducted from the early 19th century to recent times, limitations exist due to several issues, including misidentifications and historical errors. This study addresses these issues by conducting a comprehensive insect survey from 2020 to 2023, re-identifying misidentified specimens and compiling references to create an updated and accurate checklist of insect species for Ulleungdo and Dokdo.The checklists include 20 orders, 227 families and 1694 species, including 28 previously unrecorded species for Ulleungdo Island: Neoitamus cothurnatus univittatus (Loew, 1871), Elachiptera insignis (Thomson, 1869), Elachiptera sibirica (Loew, 1858), Muscina levida (Harris, 1780), Orchisia costata (Meigen, 1826), Ensina sonchi (Linnaeus, 1767), Armigeres subalbatus (Coquillett, 1898), Aedes koreicus (Edwards, 1917), Aedes galloisi Yamada, 1921, Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894), Aedes togoi (Theobald, 1907), Stenolophus difficilis (Hope, 1845), Dasytes vulgaris Nakane, 1963, Attalus elongatulus Lewis, 1895, Elacatis kraatzi Reitter, 1879, Polygraphus jezoensis Niisima, 1909, Scolytoplatypus tycon Blandford, 1893, Ambrosiophilus atratus (Eichhoff, 1876), Psilarthroides czerskyi (Zaslavskij, 1956), Tomoxia nipponica Kôno, 1928, Adelphocoris demissus Horvath, 1905, Corythucha marmorata (Uhler, 1878), Spilarctia seriatopunctata suzukii Inoue & Maenami, 1963, Hypopyra vespertilio (Fabricius, 1787), Simplicia rectalis (Eversmann, 1842), Acronicta hercules (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1874), Analetia postica (Hampson, 1905) and Eudemis brevisetosa Oku, 2005; 10 orders, 80 families and 201 species, including three unrecorded species for Dokdo Island: Arhopaloscelis bifasciata (Kraatz, 1879), Nabis stenoferus Hsiao, 1964 and Haplogonatopus oratorius (Westwood, 1833).
["Ulleungdo Island"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Diverse Approaches in Healthcare and Education Studies"]

Macroalgae of the Campeche Bank, Gulf of Mexico
The coastal habitats in the southern Gulf of Mexico face multiple threats, such as rising water temperatures, acidification, increased turbidity, invasive species and pollutants. This imperils the biodiversity of beaches, wetlands and coral reefs. To address this, there is a need for comprehensive baseline information on marine biodiversity. Several reefs in the Gulf of Mexico have been extensively studied, yet smaller reefs on the Yucatan continental shelf lack thorough exploration despite their ecological significance. These reefs serve as crucial biodiversity hotspots influenced by environmental characteristics, receiving diverse taxa from the Gulf of Mexico.The macroalgae study at the Bank of Campeche dates back to the 1950s, but comprehensive investigations have been sporadic. The recent study aims to fill this gap, contributing to the taxonomic inventory of the area's benthic macroflora. Methodologically, extensive sampling across eight reefs was conducted, collecting and preserving macroalgae samples for identification in the laboratory.The study documented 90 infrageneric taxa across the reefs, with Cayo Arenas exhibiting the highest species count. Additionally, three new distribution reports for Mexico were identified in the region. The distribution of species varied amongst locations, with few species in common even amongst geographically proximate reefs. The diversity found in these reefs slightly trails behind other studied regions, but surpasses previous reports for the Campeche Bank.It is important to emphasise that the significance of this study lies in its focus on remote reefs with complicated and costly access logistics. Additionally, it is one of the first publicly available datasets published for this region.The study aligns with existing literature on prevalent families in reef environments and highlights differences in species distribution, based on depth variations amongst reefs. The findings of new distribution records in the region and the distinctiveness of localities despite their proximity underscore the unique ecological dynamics of these reefs.These reefs are located in remote and difficult-to-access areas, highlighting the importance of the data obtained on their biodiversity and conservation status. This work presents for the first time a list of macroalgae for the reefs of Banco Nuevo, Banco Obispo, Banco Pera and Serpientes Reef. Three new distribution reports for Yucatan were identified at the Banco Obispo reef: Botryocladia shanksii E. Y. Dawson, Ceratodictyon scoparium (Montagne & Millardet) R. E. Norris and Asteromenia peltata (W. R. Taylor) Huisman & Millar and a new report for the Mexican Atlantic, Herposiphonia parca Setchell at the Triángulo Oeste reef. This results in distinct algal communities compared to other reefs in the region, emphasising their ecological significance and the need for continued research and conservation efforts. To our knowledge, this is one of the first interoperable datasets being published on the marine algae of the southern Gulf of Mexico reef ecosystems.
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Toxins and Detection Methods"]

Contrasting environmental drivers of tree community variation within heath forests in Brunei Darussalam, Borneo
Understanding how abiotic factors influence Bornean tropical tree communities and diversity is a key aspect in elucidating the mechanisms of species co-existence and habitat preferences in these biodiverse forests. We focused on investigating forest structure, tree diversity and community composition of lowland Bornean heath forests in Brunei Darussalam, within two 0.96 ha permanent forest plots at Bukit Sawat Forest Reserve and Badas Forest Reserve. All trees with stem diameter ≥ 5 cm were tagged, identified and measured for their stem diameter and basal area. Soil physiochemical properties (pH, gravimetric water content and concentrations of total carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium in topsoil) and environmental factors (relative humidity, canopy openness, litter depth and topographic variables of elevation, slope and aspect) were quantified as potential drivers of tree community differences. A total of 2,368 trees were recorded, representing 229 tree species in 211 genera and 58 families. Significant between-site differences in forest structure and tree community compositions were detected, despite limited differences in environmental and soil properties. Tree community composition at Bukit Sawat appeared to be influenced by topographic variables, while those at Badas were influenced by canopy openness. Our results showed that small-scale soil and environmental variation appeared to shape the local tree communities at Bukit Sawat and Badas. We recorded numerous Bornean endemic and tree species of high conservation values. We thus highlight the necessity of conducting long-term research on the forest dynamics of Bornean heath forests to effectively manage these high conservation value habitats which are currently experiencing changes driven by disturbances.
["Kerangas forest"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest ecology and management", "Forest Ecology and Conservation"]

Cumaceans (Crustacea, Peracarida) associated with shallow-water hydrothermal vents at Banderas Bay, Mexico
Cumaceans mostly inhabit marine environments, where they play a crucial role in marine food webs and actively participate in the transfer between benthic and pelagic systems. Scientific interest in these crustaceans has been increasing, but is limited to certain geographic areas, which do not include extreme environments such as hydrothermal vents.Therefore, this study aimed to report the distribution of cumaceans in shallow-water hydrothermal vents at Banderas Bay and to identify the specimens present. Three sites were selected (20°44’54.7”N, 105°28’40.6”W; 20°44’54.8”N, 105°28’40.4”W; 20°44’54.9”N, 105°28’38.4”W) and each site was divided into three zones, based on sediment temperature. Through SCUBA diving, 27 sediment cores were collected. The samples were processed and identified in the laboratory. The families Bodotriidae T. Scott, 1901; Pseudocumatidae Sars, 1878; and Diastylidae Bate, 1856; were recorded and six morphospecies were identified. This work leaves a preliminary frame of reference for future studies related to the biodiversity of cumacean in Hydrothermal vents environments.
["benthos"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and coastal ecosystems"]

A new species related to Anorthoa changi from Wuyishan National Park (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Hadeninae)
Anorthoa Berio, 1980 is a genus within the subfamily Hadeninae . This genus has a close relationship with the rama species complex of the genus Harutaeographa. It comprises three species groups: the munda-group, the angustipennis-group and the rubrocinerea-group. The species Anorthoa changi Ronkay & Ronkay, 2001 from Taiwan Island belongs to the rubrocinerea-group.A new species related to Anorthoa changi Ronkay & Ronkay, 2001, is described from Wuyishan National Park, China. The new species can be distinguished from its sister species by its larger size and some differences in the genitalia. Now, the number of species in the genus Anorthoa is increased to eleven.
["Anorthoa"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new spider species of the Pholcus yichengicus species group (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Hebei Province, northern China
The Pholcus yichengicus species group currently contains 47 species. It is mainly distributed in central and southern China, as well as northern Thailand.Pholcus changli Yao, sp. nov. is described as a new species of the P. yichengicus species group collected from northern China (Hebei Province).

New record and dietary ecology of a poorly-known treefrog, Zhangixalus pachyproctus Yu, Hui, Hou, Wu, Rao & Yang, 2019 (Anura, Rhacophoridae) in Vietnam
The White-lipped Treefrog Zhangixalus pachyproctus Yu, Hui, Hou, Wu, Rao & Yang, 2019 was previously confused with Zhangixalus smaragdinus (Blyth, 1852). Records of Zhangixalus smaragdinus from Yunnan (China), Vietnam and Thailand were recognised as a misidentification and this taxon was subsequently described as a new species, based on morphological and molecular evidence. This species is currently known from southern China, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. However, knowledge about its natural history and feeding ecology is virtually lacking.We herein report a newly-discovered population of Zhangixalus pachyproctus from Lang Son Province, northern Vietnam. In addition, we provide novel data about the diet of Z. pachyproctus, based on stomach content analyses of 38 individuals (37 males and one female). A total of 26 prey categories with 681 items were found in the stomachs of Z. pachyproctus. The dominant prey items of the species were Orthoptera (Acrididae, Tettigoniidae), Coleoptera (Languriida, Leiodidae, larvae, other Coleoptera), Mantodea (Mantidae) and Blattodea (Blaberidae, Blattidae, other Blattodea). Coleoptera (Coccinellidae, Cupedidae, Elateridae, Languriidae Leiodidae, Tenebrionidae, larvae and other Coleoptera) was the category with the highest frequency of prey items, found in 24 stomachs. The most important (IRI) groups amongst the prey of Z. pachyproctus were Coleoptera (24.52%) and followed by Orthoptera (24.43%), Blattodea (9.12%), Mantidae (8.14%) and Hemiptera (4.05%).
["Lang Son Province"]

Description of Mesopolobus askewi sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Pteromalidae), with notes on the fauna of Asaphesinae and Pteromalidae (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) collected from foliage of Picea abies (L.) H. Karst. in Bulgaria
Mesopolobus Westwood, 1833 consists of about 135 valid species worldwide. After the fundamental monograph of Graham (1969), 12 species have been described from continental Europe and three species have been described from the Canary Islands and Malta. Amongst them, one species, Mesopolobus blascoi Askew, 1994, has been synonymised under Mesopolobus maculipennis (Mercet, 1923). Only eight species have been reported from Bulgaria to date.Here we describe a new species, Mesopolobus askewi sp. nov. and present new data on the Bulgarian chalcidoid fauna obtained by sampling in foliage of the Norway spruce, P. abies. Mesopolobus askewi sp. nov. can be distinguished from the most morphologically similar species, M. longicollis Graham, by the following characters: clypeus with deeper emargination, fore wings with basal vein having complete row of setae, head blue to bluish-green, mesosoma bluish-green to green with coppery reflections, legs after coxae mostly fulvous, only distal one-fifth of meso- and metatibiae yellowish, protarsi with fifth segment yellowish, only tarsal claws fuscous, venation pale testaceous. Furthermore, we identified nine valid species of the family Pteromalidae belonging to four genera – Mesopolobus (three spp.), Pachyneuron (one sp.), Stenomalina (one sp.) and Trichomalus (four spp.) and one species of subfamily Asaphesinae (Chalcidoidea, incertae sedis), all represented in our samples by many specimens and none having previously been reported as associated with foliage of the Norway spruce. Three of the species are new records for the Bulgarian fauna.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies"]

Shallow reef fish assemblage from Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Southwest Atlantic
The paper presents an extensive dataset of the shallow reef fish communities and habitat characteristics in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago (Southwest Atlantic). The data were collected from August to October 2006 in the Fernando de Noronha main island. To evaluate the shallow reef fish communities, 165 visual censuses were performed in eight different localities in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago.The dataset reports a comprehensive compilation of the shallow reef fish abundance, of eight localities of the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago. The dataset reveals spatial heterogeneity amongst the selected localities in terms of fish abundance, composition and size.
["abundance"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

First records of Selaginella kraussiana and Selaginella subcordata from Senegal (Selaginellaceae)
The monogeneric family Selaginellaceae is made up of about 700 species distributed throughout the world, but the most concentrated part is in tropical and subtropical areas. According to the most recent infrageneric classification of the genus Selaginella, six or seven subgenera can be recognised and perhaps 700 species. The genus is monophyletic, cosmopolitan, characterised by the presence of rhizophores, ligulated leaves and has a reniform adaxial sporangia with two type of spores (heterospory).The records of two species are reported, that is S. kraussiana (Kunze) A.Braun and S. subcordata A.Braun ex Kuhn, which are new for the state of Senegal. Ecological traits, especially related to the habitat and altitude-elevation distribution, are also described for these species. Both species were collected in the south of Senegal, more precisely in the region of Kédougou for S. Kraussiana and in the regions of Kédougou, Tambacounda and Ziguinchor for S. subcordata.
["Pteridophytes"]

A review of the genus Gaurenoglaea Ronkay, Ronkay, Gyulai & Hacker, 2010 (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) with description of a new species from Xizang Autonomous Region, China
Gaurenoglaea is a genus belonging to the tribe Xylenini. Since its establishment more than ten years ago, this genus has included only two species.A new species of the genus Gaurenoglaea Ronkay, Ronkay, Gyulai & Hacker, 2010, G. medogensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Xizang Autonomous Region, south-western China. The new species can be distinguished from the previous Gaurenoglaea species by the differences of forewing cilia and aedeagus. A key to the Gaurenoglaea species, based on morphology, is provided.
["Gaurenoglaea"]

Biodiversity and relative abundance of benthic invertebrates in the intertidal of Taraba Sound, Magellan Region, Chile
The Taraba Sound is situated north of the Strait of Magellan within the Chilean fjord and channel system. In this inlet, samples were collected at three beach levels (supralittoral, mesolittoral and infralittoral) along four transects perpendicular to the coastline. A total of 2,754 specimens were collected and identified, representing seven phyla and 24 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). The dominant components across the four beaches were bivalves and crustaceans, with Choromytilus chorus and Paramoera cf. fissicauda contributing significantly to zone similarity. Beaches 2 and 4, located adjacent to river mouths, had lower salinity and consequently lower species richness, abundance, diversity and evenness, particularly in the supra- and mesolittoral zones where freshwater influence is more pronounced. Our study represents the first comprehensive characterisation of intertidal benthic invertebrate biodiversity in the region. Its findings provide valuable baseline data for future research, especially considering the anticipated increase in aquaculture concession applications and the establishment of offshore sea farming centres in the region.
["benthic biodiversity"]

Contribution to the tribe Apalochrini (Coleoptera, Melyridae, Malachiinae) of China, with notes on the genus Dicranolaius Champion and Intybia Pascoe
Apalochrini is a tribe of the family Melyridae characterised by the shortened pedicel, with 13 genera recorded in China at present. Dicranolaius Champion and Intybia Pascoe of Apalochrini are distributed in Asia and Southeast Asia, with the former genus extending to Australia, but not being found in China. In a recent expedition in the mangrove forests of Zhangzhou City (Fujian Province), eastern China, specimens of D. mangalicola Asano ＆ Kawashima, 2010 and I. swatowensis (Wittmer, 1956) were collected.Dicranolaius Champion is recorded from China for the first time and I. swatowensis is newly recorded for Fujian Province. Diagnostic characters of D. mangalicola is provided and I. swatowensis is re-described in details. An updated key to genera of the Chinese Apalochrini, based on male characters, is given.
["soft-winged flower beetles"]

A new species of Plutella Schrank (Lepidoptera, Plutellidae) from the Andes of northern Chile
The moth genus Plutella Schrank, 1802 (Lepidoptera, Plutellidae) includes 26 described species. In addition to the diamondback moth, P. xylostella (Linnaeus, 1758), which is an important and widely distributed pest of cruciferous crops, only two species have been previously recorded in Chile, both with distribution ranges restricted to the southern temperate rainforests.Plutella copaquillaensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated, based on adults reared from larvae collected on Neuontobotrys lanata (Walp.) Al-Shehbaz (Brassicaceae) in the arid highlands of the Andes of northern Chile. The new species resembles P. xylostella in wing pattern, but clearly differs in genitalia morphology.
["arid environments"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies"]

A remarkable Cornish site for ground-nesting bees and wasps
The south coast of the UK features a number of habitats rich in ground-nesting aculeate wasps and bees. Many of these are in predominantly sandy areas due to nesting requirements, but adjacent heathland may be especially critical in providing rich flower sources for these insects.A surprisingly small transition zone between Hard Cliff and Maritime Heath habitats was found to support an unusually rich local fauna of ground-nesting bees and wasps, near the top of a promontory known as Carn Du, SE of Lamorna Cove in south-western Cornwall. In an area of partly exposed sandy soil measuring approximately 20 m2, more than twenty species (ten solitary bees, 10 aculeate wasps) were found during summer 2024, along with a handful of rarely observed species. We report the species found nesting there and illustrate many of them via field photographs.
["Andrenidae"]

Taxonomic insights and new geographic records of Metzgeria epiphylla A. Evans (Metzgeriales, Metzgeriaceae): A re-assessment based on discoveries in Shennongjia National Park, China
Metzgeria, a genus established in 1818, has been the subject of various taxonomic studies, with revisions leading to the recognition of several genera within the Metzgeriaceae family. Recent research indicates that Metzgeria constitutes over 98% of the family’s species, with broad global distribution.During a bryophyte survey in Shennongjia National Park, Metzgeria epiphylla A. Evans was newly recorded in China, expanding the known distribution of this species beyond its previously reported locations in the South Atlantic and South Pacific regions. This represents the first report of M. epiphylla in East Asia, specifically in evergreen broadleaf forest habitats. The discovery contributes new insights into the species' morphology, including variability in thallus shape and reproductive structures, distinguishing it from closely-related taxa. A key to species of Metzgeria from Asia is also given.
["Marchantiophyta"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Paramirandina guttulata (Microthyriaceae, Microthyriales), a new lignicolous freshwater fungi from a plateau lake in Yunnan Province, China
Based on unique morphological features and phylogenetic analysis of combined LSU and ITS sequences, Paramirandina guttulata is established as the third species in Paramirandina, along with P. aquatica and P. cymbiformis. All three species of Paramirandina were reported from freshwater habitats in China.Paramirandina guttulata sp. nov. is a morphologically conspicuous hyphomycetes species, collected from a plateau lake (Dujuanhu Lake) in Yunnan Province, China. The key distinguishing characteristics of P. guttulata are scattered or gregarious conidiophores, polyblastic, terminal, sympodial conidiogenous cells and fusiform, cymbiform, 4–6-septate, guttulate, hyaline conidia that are solitary or in chains and with truncate base and obtuse apex. Detailed descriptions and illustrations are provided for the new species.

The review of the genus Coccinella (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from Pakistan
The genus Coccinella is reviewed with seven species found in Pakistan: C. luteopicta (Mulsant, 1866), C. marussii Kapur, 1973, C. iranica Dobzhansky, 1926, C. transversalis Fabricius, 1781, C. septempunctata Linnaeus, 1758, C. transversoguttata transversoguttata Faldermann, 1835 and C. undecimpunctata Linnaeus, 1758. Information on prey, host plants, distribution and an identification key for Coccinella species in Pakistan is provided. Additionally, newly-sequenced partial COI (cytochrome-c-oxidase subunit I) for C. luteopicta and C. marussii were used to determine their phylogenetic positions within the genus Coccinella.This study comprehensively reviews the genus Coccinella in Pakistan and highlights Coccinella luteopicta as a new country record. Morphological features of adults, including male genital characters and an identification key to known species in Pakistan are presented. Records of prey, host plants and distributions for all identified species are included. The new data (COI-barcode) shows that C. luteopicta (Mulsant, 1866) was recorded first in Pakistan.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Agricultural pest management studies"]

Morphology of immature stages of the black fig fly Silba adipata (Diptera, Lonchaeidae)
The black fig fly Silba adipata is an exotic and invasive pest of figs in several producing areas of Mexico. The larvae of this species feed on the internal tissue of the syconium, causing rot and premature drop. In addition to S. adipata, other species of fruit flies can be associated with figs in Mexico. Therefore the recognition of their immature stages is useful for plant health inspection procedures and timely management decisions. This study aimed to describe the egg, larva (L3) and puparium stages of S. adipata, provide photographic material for their recognition and discuss the most important external morphological characteristics to differentiate them from Zaprionus indianus and Anastrepha ludens and discriminated amongst other species of Diptera of the Drosophilidae and Tephritidae families associated with figs.
["fruit flies"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of the genus Truncocolumella (Basidiomycota, Boletales) found in the Hengduan Mountains of China
During surveys of hypogeous fungi in the Hengduan Mountains, south-western China, three specimens of the genus Truncocolumella were discovered in Sichuan Province.Morphological and molecular analyses revealed that the collections represent a new species, Truncocolumella pseudocolumella. This article describes the new species and discusses its relationship with the other two members of the genus.
["false truffles"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

On two species of Phintella Strand, 1906 from Hainan, China (Araneae, Salticidae)
In our recent examination of the Phintella specimens collected from Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, a new species and the unknown female of P. liae Wang, Mi & Peng, 2023 were recognised, based on the morphological characteristics and molecular evidence.A new species of Phintella Strand, 1906 is described: P. hongkan sp. nov. (♂♀) from Hainan, China. The unknown female of P. liae Wang, Mi & Peng, 2023 is also described for the first time. Diagnostic photos of both species are provided.
["Chrysillini"]

A new species of Khorata Huber, 2005 (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Jiangxi Qiyunshan National Nature Reserve, southern China
Khorata Huber, 2005 contains 52 species distributed in Cambodia, China, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam, out of which about 34 species have been recorded from China. It can be distinguished from all other genera of Pholcidae by the male chelicerae with lateral ledges and the cheliceral apophyses with cuticular ridges or scales. The femur of the male palp features a retrolateral apophysis. The male palp is small, characterised by a prolaterally attached genital bulb that lacks projections, except for the embolus. The carapace exhibits a shallow median groove and the female abdomen shows no posterior pockets.A spider survey conducted in June 2024 from the Jiangxi Qiyunshan National Nature Reserve, Jiangxi, China recorded the genus Khorata for the first time. Based on morphological comparison, one new species was identified and is described here. A detailed description, diagnosis, photographs and distribution map of the new species are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Apharinodes baixiensis sp. nov., a new species from Guangdong, China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae)
The genus Apharinodes Raffray, 1890 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Hybocephalini) includes four known species occurring in East and Southeast Asia.A new species, Apharinodes baixiensis sp. nov., is described from Heyuan City, Guangdong Province, China. Important morphological characters of the new species are illustrated by colour plates.
["Pselaphine beetle"]

New records and an updated list of reptiles from Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Thanh Hoa Province is located in North Central Vietnam and the Province contains a large area of 393,361.33 hectares of natural forest. A complexity of landforms has given this Province a high level of biodiversity potential. However, the reptile fauna of Thanh Hoa Province is still underestimated. Previous studies documented 111 species of reptiles from this Province.As a result of our field surveys in Pu Luong and Xuan Lien Nature Reserves, we report five species of reptiles for the first time from Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam, namely Plestiodon tamdaoensis, Scincella devorator (Scincidae), Elaphe taeniura, Pareas macularius and Pseudoxenodon macrops (Colubridae), with novel data about morphological characteristics. In addition, we provide an updated checklist of 116 species of reptiles from Thanh Hoa Province. The reptile fauna of Thanh Hoa Province also contains a number of species of conservation concern: 22 species listed in the Red Data Book of Vietnam, 22 species listed in the IUCN Red List, 18 species listed in the Vietnam Governmental Decree No. 84; and 21 species listed in CITES appendices.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Bat Species Diversity in the Merapoh Rich Limestone-rich Area within Lipis National Geopark, Malaysia
Merapoh, Pahang, is an area rich with limestone karst located within the Lipis National Geopark and home to the Sungai Relau gate of Taman Negara Pahang, a totally protected rainforest in Malaysia. Much of the research conducted here is mainly inside the National Park, with few published faunal records for the Merapoh caves. This study compiled the data on the bat species diversity of eight Merapoh caves (March 2020 to March 2022) using mist nets and harp traps. Our results indicate that Chiroptera diversity at Merapoh caves is rich, with a total of 32 species recorded from 865 individuals and four new locality records for the State of Pahang, namely Rousettus leschenaultii, Lyroderma lyra, Rhinolophus coelophyllus and Hipposideros pomona. Gua Gunting has the highest diversity of bats recorded in this study (19 species). Significant Merapoh caves with bat colony roosts in Merapoh include Gua Jinjang Pelamin (Eonycteris spelaea & Rousettus leschenaultii), Gua Tahi Bintang (Hipposideros larvatus) and Gua Pasir Besar (Miniopterus medius). Rhinolophus convexus, previously recorded only in upper montane rainforests, was also recorded in Merapoh caves indicating that this species can also be found in lower elevations than previously thought. Based on the findings of the current study and additional records from two previous studies, the Merapoh bat species diversity checklist totalled up to 38 species. On the whole, the rich bat diversity in Merapoh is reflective of its immense limestone karst landscape, which highlights the reason Lipis National Geopark has been recently gazetted. Future bat research should continue here and in other karsts within Lipis Geopark to sustainably conserve biological diversity, manage geological structures and raise awareness amongst the locals to appreciate their national heritage.
["Merapoh"]

New record of Carnidae (Diptera) from Taiwan and potential challenges in DNA barcode amplification due to pseudogene
The genus Carnus Nitzsch, 1818 comprises small ectoparasites that feed on the blood of juvenile avians. They are characterised by dealated adults with setose abdominal intersegmental membranes. Carnus orientalis Maa, 1968 was previously recorded in Malaysia and the Ryukyu Islands of Japan, parasitising two owl species: Ketupa ketupu (Horsfield, 1821) and Otus elegans (Cassin, 1852). This study confirms the occurrence of C. orientalis in Taiwan and presents a new host record, along with COI barcode sequences. Additionally, the study also elucidates the difficulties posed by blood meal contamination and pseudogene amplification as confounding factors intrinsic to the molecular taxonomic delineation of C. orientalis via universal DNA barcoding primers.The following new information regarding C. orientalis is provided in this study:Carnus orientalis is first recorded in Taiwan, filling the gap in its East Asian distribution. This is also the first record of Carnidae from Taiwan.Otus lettia (Hodgson, 1836) (Aves, Strigidae) is reported as a new host for C. orientalis, identified on a fallen fledgling.Co-amplification of the host's COI is reported in this study using the universal PCR primer set LCO1490/HCO2198. Additionally, the amplification of a COI-like pseudogene using a newly-designed primer set is detected through abnormal translated amino acid sequences and the occurrence of a stop codon.New specific primers for the COI gene of Carnus were designed in this study.The new distribution and ecological data of C. orientalis enhance our understanding of this species. The provision of new COI primers is anticipated to contribute to future studies employing DNA barcoding in bird-parasitic flies.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Chironomidae (Diptera) of the Šventoji and Žeimena sub-basins in Lithuania
Chironomidae, commonly known as non-biting midges, are key indicators of the health and biodiversity of freshwater ecosystems. They are also one of the most abundant and diverse groups of aquatic invertebrates. Although Chironomidae are ecologically important, abundant and diverse, there has been limited focused research on this group in Lithuania. Our study addresses this gap by analysing the diversity of Chironomidae in six Lithuanian streams.In this study, we present a comprehensive list of Chironomidae collected from six streams with similar hydrological characteristics: three dammed and three undammed. Lithuania is home to 158 species of known species of Chironomidae, comprised of 22 species in the subfamily Tanypodinae, 87 in the Chironominae, 42 in the Orthocladiinae, four in the Diamesinae and three in the Prodiamesinae. Throughout our research, we collected 11,296 chironomid specimens using a D-shaped aquatic net. Amongst these specimens, we identified 89 species representing 65 genera and five subfamilies, including 37 species and 12 genera, were recorded for the first time in Lithuania. The subfamily Chironominae, with 28 genera and 6,816 specimens, has exhibited the highest abundance of non-biting midges both in terms of genera and individuals. Amongst the streams investigated, the Luknelė was the richest in diversity, harbouring 37 genera and 2,657 individuals, accounting for about 55% of the Chironomidae genera found during the research. Our findings significantly enhance the understanding of the Lithuanian Chironomidae fauna, marking the first comprehensive study of such a kind, as previous knowledge of this fauna has been derived only from related studies.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A new species and two newly-recorded species of the genus Micrencaustes (Coleoptera, Erotylidae) from China
The genus Micrencaustes Crotch, 1876 (Coleoptera, Cucujoidea, Erotylidae, Erotylinae, Encaustini) includes 44 known species worldwide, 11 species having been reported to occur in China. In recent years, species of genus Micrencaustes in China are constantly being discovered, mainly distributed in southern China.A new species, Micrencaustes (Mimencaustes) occulta sp. nov., is described and illustrated. Two species, Micrencaustes (Mimencaustes) divisa Arrow, 1925 and Micrencaustes (Micrencaustes) navicularis Arrow, 1921 are recorded from China for the first time. The morphological characteristics of adults of new species are re-described in detail and illustrated. A key to Chinese species of the genus Micrencaustes is provided. The specimens of new species was collected from Yunnan Province and the specimens of Micrencaustes (Mimencaustes) divisa Arrow, 1925 and Micrencaustes (Micrencaustes) navicularis Arrow, 1921 were collected from Hainan Province and Guangdong Province and deposited in the Museum of Hebei University and Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
["Encaustini"]

A new species of Leptobrachella Smith 1925 (Anura, Megophryidae) from Lai Chau Province, Vietnam
The genus Leptobrachella (Anura, Megophryidae) was originally described, based on the type species from Sarawak (Malaysia), Leptobrachella mjöbergi Smith. The taxa in the group were previously classified into different genera, i.e, Paramegophrys Liu; Leptolalax Dubois; Lalax Delorme, Dubois, Grosjean & Ohler; and Lalos Dubois, Grosjean, Ohler, Adler & Zhao. However, Yuan et al. synonymised Leptolalax with Leptobrachella in 2017. Members of Leptobrachella inhabit the forest floor and rocky streams in hilly evergreen forests. They are widely distributed from southern China and Myanmar through mainland Indochina to Peninsular Malaysia and the island of Borneo. However, the species diversity of the genus was indicated to be underestimated by phylogenetic analyses and a series of new species have been discovered recently. In Vietnam, 34 species of Leptobrachella are currently known and 75% (or 24 species) have been described or newly recorded from the country since 2010.We describe a new species, Leptobrachella huynhi sp. nov., from Sin Ho District, Lai Chau Province. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by genetic divergences ranging from 3.62 to 18.51% (16S rRNA gene) and morphological differences: size medium (SVL 37.8–40.2 mm in adult females); head longer than wide; tympanum distinct; skin on entire dorsum shagreened; toes without webbing and with narrow lateral fringes; supratympanic ridge slightly rough with few nodules; dorsum grey-brown with indistinct dark brown markings; an interorbital region with a stacking double Y-shaped marking; centre of belly creamy-white, outer edges of belly brown with small whitish spots; iris copper. The new species is the 35th species of the genus Leptobrachella known from Vietnam.
["Leptobrachella huynhi sp. nov."]

A new species of Rhopalopsole (Plecoptera, Leuctridae) from Yunnan Province, China
A new species of the genus Rhopalopsole (Plecoptera, Leuctridae) from Yunnan Province, China, Rhopalopsole dulongjianga sp. nov., is described and illustrated.This new species is compared to the similar species, Rhopalopsole bispina (Wu, 1949). Additionally, we provide a supplemental description and colour plates of R. bispina. A key to Rhopalopsole species from Yunnan Province, China, is also provided in this paper.
["Rhopalopsole"]

Using biodiversity databases to assess vascular plant diversity in Protected Areas: a case study of Parque Estadual do Forno Grande, Brazil
The Parque Estadual do Forno Grande is a fully protected area in the southern Espírito Santo State, Brazil. It belongs to the Atlantic Forest domain, with predominantly dense, ombrophilous, seasonal semi-deciduous forests and herbaceous/shrubby vegetation on rock outcrops. The area is recognised as highly important for conservation, designated as a priority biological area for protecting the Atlantic Forest's biodiversity. Although the importance of Protected Areas in conserving the Atlantic Forest biodiversity is unquestionable, it is crucial to understand the floristic patterns within these regions to develop effective conservation strategies. We utilised national online databases to compile species lists containing relevant information about their biodiversity. The updated list of vascular plants recorded in the Parque Estadual do Forno Grande is available in the “Catálogo de Plantas das Unidades de Conservação do Brasil” and it is presented here with further information on richness, endemism and conservation status.The Parque Estadual do Forno Grande harbours 958 species of vascular plants, of which 79.2% are angiosperms, 18.4% are ferns and 2.4% are lycophytes. Amongst these species, 44% are endemic to the Atlantic Forest. There are 58 threatened species, of which six are Critically Endangered, 39 are Endangered and 13 are Vulnerable. Amongst the threatened species, 51 are endemic to the Atlantic Forest. The number of records and the species richness in this area are notably high for Atlantic Forest standards. Our findings suggest that floristic inventories of Brazilian Protected Areas are a key contribution to the general perception of how much we still do not know about our flora. It also highlights the necessity of supporting floristic surveys in poorly-known areas, especially those remaining as forest remnants.
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Typhlomys taxuansis (Rodentia, Platacanthomyidae): new species of the genus from northern Vietnam with notes on conservation status and distribution
The paper presents novel findings of little-known species of rodents, the blind tree mice Typhlomys in Son La Province, Vietnam, with the first morphological and genetic characterisation and taxonomical description of the new species, T. taxuansis. The study also summarises all the data available on this genus species distribution, museum collections and notes on its taxonomy, which are important to establish the proper conservation status of the species. An exhaustive map of the findings is provided, along with a refined taxonomic key for all six currently morphologically characterised species of the genus. It is shown that, based on the data available to date, the genus is still far from complete. Most species, apparently, do not need a special conservation measure; their status may be established as Least Concerns and Near Threatened (B1a+2a) and the current population trend is stable (IUCN).The paper introduced innovative findings regarding lesser-known rodents, the blind tree mice Typhlomys in Son La Province, Vietnam, along with the primary morphological and genetic identification and taxonomic explanation of the novel species T. taxuansis.
["Southeast Asia"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Revisiting the taxonomy of Korean Ischnochiton species (Polyplacophora, Ischnochitonidae) based on a combined analysis of morphological and molecular data
Chiton species belonging to the genus Ischnochiton J. E. Gray, 1847 are commonly found in intertidal rocky shores worldwide, with the exception of the northern Atlantic and Arctic oceans. Ischnochiton species are characterised by imbricate girdle scales that are uniform in size, rounded, sculpted with striae or occasionally smooth. However, their species-level taxonomy is complicated due to the high variation in their shell microstructures. Despite more than a hundred species reported worldwide, taxonomic studies of this group remain relatively unexplored in Korean waters, with only a few species recorded to date.In this study, we compared the microstructural characteristics of tegmentum sculpture, girdle scales and radula amongst four Korean Ischnochiton species using high-resolution microscopic images and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Along with mtDNA cox1 sequence comparison, a comprehensive analysis of their morphology revealed that I. hayamii Owada, 2018 was identified for the first time in Korean waters. This species is morphologically distinguished by its small body size of adults, smooth lateral areas on valves and small perinotum scales sculptured with weak longitudinal ribs. Phylogenetic analysis of the mtDNA cox1 sequence provides distinct resolution at the species level, but interrelationships amongst Ischnochiton species remain unresolved. Results from the morphological and molecular analyses presented in this study offer valuable taxonomic information for accurate species identification amongst closely-related Ischnochiton species.
["Ischnochiton"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

A new Otacilia Thorell, 1897 species from Hubei Province, China (Araneae, Phrurolithidae)
Phrurolithidae is a family of spiders with 405 species belonging to 25 genera distributed worldwide. Notably, 213 species belonging to 17 genera have been recorded in China.A new species of the genus Otacilia Thorell, 1897 is described from Duheyuan Nature Reserve, Hubei Province, China. Diagnosis, morphological description, living photos and photos of the habitus and genitalia of the new species are provided.
["Scholarship", "Judaism", "Religious studies", "History", "Sociology", "Philosophy", "Theology", "Political science", "Law"]

Beyond natural language: an ontology-based description of a new Scarabaeus dung beetle from Madagascar (Coleoptera, Scarabaeinae)
The dung beetle genus Scarabaeus (Coleoptera, Scarabaeinae, Scarabaeini), predominantly found in the arid regions of the Old World, includes three endemic species inhabiting the dry ecosystems of western and southern Madagascar. These species are presumed to form a monophyletic clade nested within the African Scarabaeus.Semantic modelling of phenotypes using ontologies represents a transformative approach to species description in biology, making phenotypic data FAIR and computable. The recently developed Phenoscript language enables the creation of semantic, computable species descriptions using a syntax akin to human natural language (NL). However, Phenoscript has not yet been tested as a tool for describing new taxa.In this study, we test the utility of Phenoscript by describing a new species, Scarabaeus (sensu lato) sakalava sp. nov. from Madagascar. The initial description is composed directly in Phenoscript, replacing the traditional natural language format. This Phenoscript description is then translated into a human-readable form using the Phenospy tool for publication purposes. Additionally, the Phenoscript description is converted into an RDF graph, making it understandable by computers using semantic technologies.Scarabaeus sakalava sp. nov. is found in western central Madagascar and is closely related to S. viettei (Paulian, 1953) from north-western Madagascar. We provide an updated identification key and distribution map for all Malagasy Scarabaeus and discuss their systematic placement.
["dung beetles"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Thoracophelia (Annelida, Opheliidae) from the Yellow Sea of South Korea
Thoracophelia Ehlers, 1897 is a genus of Opheliidae characterised by the body divided into three distinct regions, modified parapodia in chaetiger 10 and a ventral groove restricted to the posterior half of the body. To date, 18 species have been described in the genus. Amongst them, six species have been recorded in northeast Asia.A new species, Thoracophelia foliformis sp. nov., was discovered in the intertidal zone of the Yellow Sea, South Korea. This is the first Thoracophelia species report from the Yellow Sea. This new species is closely related to T. dillonensis (Hartman, 1938) from California and T. ezoensis Okuda, 1936 from Japan in having pectinate branchiae. However, the new species can be distinguished from the two species by the unique combination of the following characteristics: 15 pairs of wrinkled pectinate branchiae with 12–15 filaments at best development and a foliaceous mid-ventral plate in the pygidium instead of one or two thick ventral cirri. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of T. foliformis sp. nov. are provided. Sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), nuclear 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and 28S rDNA of the new species were determined and analysed.
["Opheliid"]

First confirmed record of Bufo rubroventromaculatus Orlov, Ananjeva, Ermakov, Lukonina, Ninh & Nguyen, 2024 (Anura, Bufonidae) from China, with supplementary description of this species
Bufo rubroventromaculatus Orlov, Ananjeva, Ermakov, Lukonina, Ninh & Nguyen, 2024 is a species recently described from Vietnam. Currently, this species is known from central and northern Vietnam and it uncertain whether this species is distributed in China. In addition, the original description of this species is very brief.Based on nine specimens collected from Yunnan Province and Guangxi Autonomous Region, China, we provide the first confirmed record of Bufo rubroventromaculatus from China. The morphological characteristics of the specimens from China mostly agree with the original description of B. rubroventromaculatus and, phylogenetically, the specimens from China clustered with the type series of B. rubroventromaculatus from Vietnam. We also provide a supplementary description of this species, based on the specimens we collected.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

New data on the fauna of the water treaders (Hemiptera, Mesoveliidae) of Korea
The Family Mesoveliidae, also known as the water treaders, are predaceous semi-aquatic bugs with approximately 50 known species worldwide. In the Korean Peninsula, only two species were known prior to this study: Mesovelia vittigera Horváth, 1895 and M. egorovi Kanyukova, 1981.A total of four species in two genera are recognised from Korea, including new distributional records of Mesovelia thermalis Horváth, 1915 and Speovelia maritima Esaki, 1929. The record of M. egorovi Kanyukova, 1981 from Mt. Palgongsan, South Korea is doubtful. An identification key is provided to aid identification of the Korean species.
["Hemiptera", "Fauna", "Geography", "Biology", "Ecology"]
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Diverse Approaches in Healthcare and Education Studies", "Energy and Environmental Systems"]

Proales amplus sp. nov., a new monogonont rotifer with a large epipharynx from Korea (Rotifera, Proalidae)
The family Proalidae Harring & Myers, 1924, includes four genera and 53 species, distributed across all eight biogeographic realms and inhabiting various environments, including freshwater, saltwater and terrestrial environments. The genus Proales, the largest within Proalidae, encompasses 41 species characterised by diverse morphological traits. In Korea, the presence of Proalidae has been documented with five known species: Bryceella perpusilla Wilts, Martínez Arbizu & Ahlrichs, 2010, B. stylata (Milne, 1886), B. tenella (Bryce, 1897), Proales fallaciosa Wulfert, 1937 and Proalinopsis caudatus (Collins, 1872).A new species, Proales amplus sp. nov., is the 42nd species within the genus Proales. This species exhibits unique morphological characteristics in the trophi, particularly in the epipharynx, which are distinctive enough to prevent misidentification with other Proales species. The habitus of the new species bears some resemblance to P. phaeopis Myers, 1933, sharing features, such as an elongated and fusiform body, two eyespots, a single foot pseudosegment, two short toes and the absence of a dorsal papilla between the toes. However, the epipharynx of the two species is markedly different. The unique epipharynx characteristic of this new species is unparalleled within the genus Proales.
["malleate"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of the genus Humboldtiana (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Xanthonychidae) from Sierra de Penjamo, Guanajuato, Mexico
Mexican terrestrial malacofauna is highly diverse, but poorly studied. The genus Humboldtiana includes near to 60 species, most with insular distributions on single mountains from South Texas (USA) to entral Mexico.Humboldtiana dugesi sp. nov. is described from the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. This new species represents the first one described for the state and is diagnosed by the following combination of characters that allow distinguishing for other species included in the genus, a protoconch with growth lines and granulated microsculpture, a globose penis that bears a stout verge that covers half of the penis cavity and a long flagellum that is four times longer than the combined length of the penis and epiphallus.
["landsnail"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Space Exploration and Technology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

A new species of Bolbelasmus (Coleoptera, Bolboceratidae) from Guangdong Province, China
Bolbelasmus is a group of small to medium-sized beetles distributed in the Holarctic and Oriental Regions and in Central America. It includes two subgenera (Bolbelasmus and Kolbeus) and 32 species known in the world fauna with seven species recorded from China.The new species, Bolbelasmus guangdongensis sp. nov., is described from south China and compared with B. coreanus, B. meridionalis and B. chifengi.
["Bolbelasmus"]

Updated distribution and new emerging populations of Cynometra cebuensis F. Seid. (Fabaceae), a critically endangered endemic plant from the Philippines
Cynometra cebuensis F. Seid. is an endemic and threatened tree from the Philippines. The species was previously described to exclusively thrive in the Tabunan Forest of the Central Cebu Protected Landscape. Due to its narrow geographic distribution and threats from land conversion, slash-and-burn activities and non-regulated wood harvesting by locals, C. cebuensis was assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) under criteria B1a and B1b (as well as B2a and B2b) of the IUCN Red List in 2013. The present study provides new additional locations of C. cebuensis in the Municipalities of Argao and Minglanilla in Cebu along with population data and habitat characteristics for each site. Although new populations of C. cebuensis were discovered, it remains at significant risk of extinction in its natural habitat. Urgent and comprehensive conservation efforts are imperative to prevent its extinction.This paper provides the updated distribution map of Cynometra cebuensis F. Seid, a critically endangered endemic species in the Philippines showing five (5) distribution records.
["Cynometra"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New observations on rare and threatened saproxylic hoverflies in North-Western Italy with ecological notes
The knowledge on the distribution of saproxylic hoverflies in the Piedmont region has always been incomplete, despite the large wooded areas present in the territory. We know of a few scattered specimens collected in the 19th century, often with a generic or incomplete locality on the label such as “surrounding Turin” or “Alps”. The recent publication of the first European Red List on hoverflies highlights some threatened species including some saproxylics. To fill this knowledge gap we report here unpublished data and establish new ecological note on threatened or nationally scarce saproxylic species actually present in the region.In this study, we present new findings concerning rare saproxylic hoverflies. These include the rediscovery of Hammerschmidtia ferruginea (Fallen), 1817, marking its first recorded occurrence in the Italian fauna since the middle of 19th century. Additionally, we report novel observations of the "Chimera fly" Doros destillatorius Mik, 1885, along with further observations on endangered or vulnerable species such as Callicera spp. and Brachypalpus chrysites Egger 1859. Moreover, we document the rediscovery of Criorhina pachymera Egger, 1858, within the Piedmont region, and the first record of Brachyopa grunewaldensis Kassebeer, 2000, within Italy. Comprehensive data detailing these observations are provided herein.
["Syrphidae"]
["Food Industry and Aquatic Biology", "Magnetic and Electromagnetic Effects"]

Development of microsatellite markers and evaluation of the genetic diversity of the edible sea anemone Paracondylactis sinensis (Cnidaria, Anthozoa) in China
Paracondylactis sinensis Carlgren, 1934 is a sea anemone with economic value in China. The wild population of P. sinensis has been shrinking due to overfishing and environmental pollution, which have caused price instability. In winter, the price of P. sinensis can reach 25 USD per kilogram. Up to now, there are no genetic markers developed for P. sinensis, preventing a further exploration of their population genetic diversity. In this study, the full-length transcriptome of P. sinensis was sequenced and microsatellite DNA markers (simple sequence repeats [SSRs]) were developed from those transcripts. A total of 52 primer pairs, which can amplify specific polymorphic bands in PCR experiments, were designed for the SSR markers. Genetic diversity and population genetics were analysed for P. sinensis populations collected from the coasts of Taizhou and Rizhao using six microsatellite DNA loci. While inbreeding was detected in both populations (Fis > 0), the overall number of alleles (Na = 11.3) and bottleneck analysis suggested that the genetic diversity of P. sinensis has not been greatly impacted. Clustering analyses using STRUCTURE, principal coordinate analysis and unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean tree revealed that the Taizhou population diverged from the Rizhao population; however, the genetic differentiation between the populations was moderate. Human-mediated commercial activities may be the principal reasons for the gene flow between the populations. Our study provides the first evaluation of the genetic resources of wild P. sinensis populations in China, which can serve as a useful reference for future comparative studies on population genetics and may guide policy-makers in initiating strategies for germplasm conservation and artificial breeding.
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

First record of the antlion Solter liber Navás, 1912 in Italy (Neuroptera, Myrmeleontidae)
Myrmeleontidae are conspicuous insects with moderate species diversity, which are reasonably well studied in Europe. However, dedicated samplings in the Mediterranean region carried out in the last years suggest that the state of knowledge of the representatives of this family occurring in outhern Europe is far from ideal. Over 40 species of antlions and owlflies are reported from Italy, of which a few are only known from the islands of the Sicilian Channel.Solter liber Navás, 1912 is reported for the first time in Italy, based on specimens collected in Pantelleria Island in 2022 and 2023.
["island"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

The fourth species of Sinamma Lin & Li, 2014 (Araneae, Tetrablemmidae) from China
Sinamma Lin & Li, 2014 is a small tetrablemmid genus distributed in China, with three currently known species: Sinamma oxycera Lin & Li, 2014 from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and S. quadrata Tong & Li, 2022 and S. yingae Tong & Li, 2022 from Guangdong Province.While examining spider specimens obtained by sifting leaf litter from Danxiashan National Nature Reserve in Guangdong Province of China, we discovered a new species of the genus Sinamma, S. danxia sp. nov., which is described here.

A new and widely distributed species of Ichthyurus Westwood, 1848 (Cantharidae, Chauliognathinae, Ichthyurini) from China
The genus Ichthyurus Westwood, 1848 is a large cantharid group consisting of approximately 200 species worldwide, with only 10 species hitherto found in China. Despite its expansive area, the Chinese fauna has historically received little attention from specialists, leading to a lack of knowledge even about some common Ichthyurus species in this region.A new species of Ichthyurus Westwood, 1848 is described under the name of I. longulus sp. nov., which is widely distributed in mainland China, including Shannxi, Gansu, Hubei, Chongqing, Guizhou and Guangxi. Although there are some variations in the pronotum colouration within the species, this new species could be easily distinguished from all others of Ichthyurus by the large-sized body, uniformly black elytra, mesotibiae each with an apical spur in male, terminal abdominal tergite of male with long and cylindrical lateral projections that are about 3/5 the length of the tergite, terminal abdominal ventrite of male saddle-shaped and deeply cleft in middle of apical 2/3 part and aedeagus with a long setifore extension that is as long as the parameres. The habitus, terminal abdominal ventrite and tergites and genitalia of both sexes are illustrated. In addition, a distribution map of this species and a list of the Ichthyurus species from mainland China are provided.
["Ichthyurus"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Re-description of 1st instar larva of Osmylus fulvicephalus (Scopoli, 1763) (Neuroptera, Osmylidae) based on naming system of sclerites
Osmylus fulvicephalus (Scopoli, 1763), the type species of the Osmylidae, has garnered significant research interest in taxonomy, particularly regarding its larval stages. To date, most studies have focused on the third instar larvae, but ignore the first instar larvae with the rough and incomplete morphological descriptions. This lack of studies has led to an unclear understanding of the morphological differences between larval stages, making it challenging to identify larvae, distinguish different osmylid species or even reconstruct phylogeny.In this study, the first instar larva of O. fulvicephalus was re-described in detail and illustrated, based on the naming system of sclerites. Based on this, it could be effectively distinguished from other species by the following characteristics: i) number of segments in the labial palpi; ii) the setae beard on the apex of antenna; iii) the number of transversal rows of the anal hooks. In addition, we compared the sclerites and other morphological characteristics with the third instar larvae of Osmylus fulvicephalus to better distinguish larvae at different developmental stages.
["lance lacewing"]

First records of hydroid epibionts on the introduced macroalga Gracilaria parvispora in the Mexican Pacific
The red macroalga Gracilaria parvispora is an introduced species in the Mexican Pacific. To date, there are no published studies on its sessile epibionts, including the hydrozoans and bryozoans, which are the dominant epibionts on macrophytes and of significant biological and economic interest.This study provides insight into the faunal diversity of hydroids growing on G. parvispora. A total of 185 thalli from both herbarium specimens and field samples collected from five sites in La Paz Bay were revised. Each thallus size and the presence of hydroid epibionts in each thallus region were registered. Eight different hydrozoan taxa were growing on the red macroalgae, including the first recorded observation of Obelia oxydentata in the Gulf of California. The sizes of the collected thalli were mostly under 7.0 cm, the maximum number of taxa per thallus was three and the thallus region containing the highest number of epibionts was in the middle. Significant differences were observed amongst the lengths of thalli with and without epibionts. The thalli with epibionts were larger than the thalli without epibionts. Similarly, significant differences were observed amongst the months. The pair-wise test revealed that each month exhibited distinctive epibiont taxa when compared to the others. This study highlights the lack of information on these associations. Further research is needed to understand whether introduced macroalgae can bring non-native epibiont species to an area.
["Hydrozoa"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

The MOVECLIM – AZORES project: Bryophytes from Terceira Island along an elevation gradient
Systematic studies on the biodiversity of bryophytes along elevational gradients have been conductuted within the native vegetation of the Azores, using the MOVECLIM framework. The primary objective of this study was to inventory the bryophytes present within preserved areas of native vegetation in Terceira Island (Azores). From 25 to 28 September 2012, an inventory of the bryoflora was carried out along an elevational gradient, starting near Serreta lighthouse (38.76658 Latitude; -27.37539 Longitude; 40 m a.s.l.) and culminating on the top of Santa Bárbara Mountain (38.73064 Latitude; -27.32164 Longitude; 1000 m a.s.l.). The study followed the adapted MOVECLIM standardised protocol, as follows: i) six sites were selected along an elevational transect, each site spaced at 200 m elevation intervals; ii) within each site, two 10 m x 10 m plots were established in close proximity from each other (10-15 m); iii) within these plots, three 2 m x 2 m quadrats were randomly selected and sampled for bryophytes. The following substrates were surveyed in each quadrat: rock, soil, humus, organic matter, tree bark at three different heights and leaves/fronds. For each available and bryophyte-colonised substrate, three replicate microplots of 10 cm x 5 cm were collected, resulting in a maximum of 24 microplots per quadrat.Nearly three-quarters of the maximum expected number of microplots (636 out of 864; eventID) were found across the six sites on Terceira Island, resulting in a total of 3677 records (occurrenceID). A high proportion of the specimens could be identified to the species rank (n = 3661; 99.6%), representing 38 families, 60 genera and 92 species, including 58 species of liverworts (Marchantiophyta) and 34 species of mosses (Bryophyta). The inventory included several endemic species: two liverwort species endemic to the Azores, five species endemic to Macaronesia (three mosses and two liverworts) and 11 European endemic species (three mosses and eight liverworts). The elevations with the highest species richness, the highest number of endemic species and the highest number of conservation concern species, spanned between 600 and 1000 m a.s.l. above sea level, coinciding with the best preserved forest vegetation. Overall, tree-dwelling and ground-dwelling substrates showed similar levels of bryophyte occupation (75% vs. 72%). However, the 636 events were unevenly distributed across substrates: leaves and rocks had the fewest replicates (n = 54; 50.0%), while humus and the lowest tree height had the highest values (n = 106; 98.1% and n = 98; 90.7%, respectively).The study contributed to expanding knowledge about the diversity and distribution of the Azorean Bryoflora, both on a local and a regional scale.
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

First records of the cosmopolitan terrestrial slug, Deroceras laeve (O.F. Müller) (Gastropoda, Agriolimacidae) in the Philippines
The cosmopolitan terrestrial slug, Deroceras laeve (O. F. Müller, 1774), is reported in the Philippines for the first time and characterized through morphology, morphometrics, and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene analysis. Slug samples were recovered from two administrative regions in Mindanao, Philippines. In Region X, there were two sites: Misamis Oriental (Gingoog, 664 m a.s.l.; Claveria, 937 m a.s.l.) with farms planted with cabbage (Brassica oleracea), radish (Raphanus sativus), and eggplant (Solanum melongena); and Bukidnon (Talakag, 1410 m a.s.l.) planted with cabbage. In Region XI, specimens were collected from potted ornamentals in five nurseries along the Kapatagan road, Davao del Sur, 1000-1200 m a.s.l. The external morphology of the specimens matched the published descriptions, and their identity was further confirmed by their partial COI sequences. The obtained COI sequence of the specimen in Region X showed 99-100% similarity with the voucher specimens from Mexico (KX959495, KX959496, KX959497, KX959498, and KX495499); while that of the specimen from Region XI is 100% identical to specimens collected from Japan (MW507142), Canada (MT680918 and MT941436), UK (KF894311), and Vietnam (MT941435 and MT941436). Moreover, D. laeve from Region X and Region XI shared 98% similarity with each other. Preliminary surveys show that slug occurrence is prevalent mainly in highland regions of the southern Philippines where specialty crops/high value crops like vegetables and ornamentals are cultivated. Further surveys are essential to confirm any damage that they may cause, their distribution, associated parasites, and pest status in the Philippines.
["Deroceras laeve"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

The genera Chrysilla and Phintelloides revisited with the description of a new species (Araneae, Salticidae) using digital specimen DOIs and nanopublications
Two Southeast Asian spider collections: that of Frances and John Murphy, now in the Manchester University Museum and the Deeleman collection, now at the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden constituted the basis of this analysis of Chrysilla Thorell, 1887 and related genera. The latter collection also includes many thousands of spiders obtained by canopy fogging for an ecological project in Borneo by A. Floren. Some incongruences within the genera of the tribe Chrysillini are disentangled. The transfer of C. jesudasi Caleb & Mathai, 2014 from Chrysilla as type species of Phintelloides Kanesharatnam & Benjamin, 2019, based on analysis of molecular data is validated by morphology. An interesting new species known only from the forest canopy in Borneo, Phintelloides scandens sp. nov, is described based on both male and female specimens. Distinguishing chrysilline genera is mostly based on traditional somatic characters, e.g., habitus, carapace and abdomen patterns, mouthparts, and genital organs. The utility of two character systems for distinguishing chrysilline genera is highlighted: 1) the presence of a flexible, articulating embolic tegular branch (etb) in combination with the conformation of the characteristic construction of the epigyne in Chrysilla and Phintelloides; 2) presence of red colour on carapace and abdomen of live males and females, in combination with abundant blue/violet/white iridescent scales such as in Chrysilla and Siler. The red colour usually gets lost in alcohol, hampering species identification of alcohol material. The genera Chrysilla and Phintelloides are redefined. Specimens of the heretofore unknown female of Chrysilla deelemani Prószyński & Deeleman-Reinhold, 2010 are described. The male and female of Chrysilla lauta and male of C. volupe are redescribed. The genus Chrysilla is diagnosed and discriminated from Phintella Bösenberg & Strand, 1906, Siler Simon, 1889, Phintelloides Kanesharatnam & Benjamin, 2019 and Proszynskia Kanesharatnam & Benjamin, 2019. The structure of the female genital organ of Phintelloides flavumi Kanesharatnam & Benjamin, 2019 is scrutinized and the generic placement of Phintelloides is discussed. Males and females of one of the most variable species, Phintelloides versicolor (C. L. Koch, 1846) are redescribed. Phintelloides munita (Bösenberg & Strand, 1906) is removed from synonymy with P. versicolor. Phintella leucaspis Simon 1903 (male, Sumatra) is synonymized with P. versicolor.Biodiversity data are increasingly reliant on digital infrastructure. By linking physical specimens to digital representations of their associated data, we can lower barriers to information flow. Here we demonstrate a workflow whereby persistent identifiers (PIDs) in the form of DOIs issued by DataCite are assigned to specimens. Recognized taxa are identified by their catalog of life identifier, or by registration in ZooBank where no catalog of life identifier is available. We demonstrate the use of nanopublications, creating a series of machine readable, scientifically meaningful assertions regarding the provenance and identification of cited specimens. All human agents associated with the specimen data are linked to a persistent identifier issued by either ORCiD or Wikidata.
["Biodiversity informatics"]

Metarhizium puerense (Hypocreales, Clavicipitaceae): a new species from Yunnan, south-western China
As a genus within the Clavicipitaceae, Metarhizium exhibits rich morphological and ecological diversity, with a wide distribution and a variety of hosts. Currently, sixty-eight species of Metarhizium have been described.A new species of Metarhizium, M. puerense (Hong Yu bis), was described in Pu'er City, Yunnan Province, south-western China. Based on morphological characteristics and multilocus phylogenetic analyses, Metarhizium puerense was confirmed to be phylogenetically related to M. album, but was clearly separated and formed a distinct branch. In contrast, the host of Metarhizium album was plants and leafhoppers and that lepidopteran larvae were the host of M. puerense. The diagnostic features of M. puerense were solitary to multiple stromata and smooth-walled, cylindrical with rounded apices conidia.
["Metarhizium"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Nematode management and characterization studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

First description of the female and morphological variations with range extension of Kurixalus lenquanensis (Anura, Rhacophoridae)
Kurixalus lenquanensis Yu, Wang, Hou, Rao and Yang, 2017 was originally described, based on 14 adult male specimens from Lengquan Village, Mengzi, Yunnan, China. So far, this species is known only from south-eastern Yunnan and information on females of this species is not available. During the field surveys in 2023, two Kurixalus specimens (one female and one male) were collected from central eastern Yunnan (Shilin, Kunming, Yunnan, China). These two specimens were confirmed to be K. lenquanensis by molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on 16S rRNA sequences.A female specimen of K. lenquanensis is described for the first time and morphological variation amongst populations of this species is provided. The diagnosis and distribution of this species are updated.
["Kurixalus"]

Distribution of bat species in Western Asia: Occurrence records from the Western Asia Bat Research Network (WAB-Net) project
Western Asia represents a mixing pot of diverse bat species with distributions spanning across other geographic regions. Yet, relative to other regions, there is a significant gap in coordinated bat research in Western Asia, thereby resulting in a relatively limited number of curated occurrence records.The Western Asia Bat Research Network (WAB-Net) project was created to strengthen research capacity and knowledge of the diversity and distribution of bat species in a little-studied region, as well as to collect data to characterise the diversity and prevalence of coronaviruses in diverse bat species. Over a four-year period (2018–2022), we documented 4,278 individual records for 41 bat species using a cross-sectional survey approach at 50 sites in seven Western Asian countries, specifically Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Jordan, Oman, Pakistan and Turkiye. At each site, we captured, on average, 90 individual bats (range: 9-131) over multiple consecutive nights and used standardised methods to collect demographic and morphological data from captured individuals. We additionally completed a systematic evaluation of environmental characterisation and human-bat interactions at all 50 sites. Here, we report individual occurrence records and site conditions from this multi-country, multi-year sampling effort.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Zoonotic diseases and public health", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

New records of birds from Central Vietnam
There has been a series of bird surveys conducted in Vietnam over the last 20 years. However, most of these studies and surveys have focused on sites in Tonkin, the Red River Delta, Cochinchina (Mekong Delta), the Central Highlands and mountainous areas of Central Annam (Central region of Vietnam). The central coastal plain as well as the mountainous region of North Annam have rarely been comprehensively investigated.As a result of our field surveys in 2023 and 2024, a total of 15 species of birds are recorded for the first time from North, Central and South Annam, comprising one Frigate-Bird species (Fregatidae), one ibis (Threskiornithidae), one reed-warbler (Acrocephalidae), one Treecreeper (Certhiidae), two buntings (Emberizidae), one chat (Muscicapidae), one yuhina (Zosteropidae), two nuthatches (Sittidae), two members of the laughingthrush family (Leiothrichidae) and three bulbuls (Pycnonotidae). In addition to photographs confirming the new records, we provide information on the distribution and conservation status of these newly-recorded bird species from Central Vietnam.
["Ornithology"]

A new Xilithus species from Hubei, China (Araneae, Phrurolithidae)
The genus Xilithus Liu & Li, 2023 contains 22 species, three of which are known from Hubei Province, China: X. acerosus (Yao, Irfan & Peng, 2019), X. auritus (Fu, Zhang & Zhang, 2016) and X. xingdoushanensis (Yao, Irfan & Peng, 2019).One new Xilithus species from Hubei, China is described: X. qizimeishanensis Liu & Hu sp. nov. Morphological description, digital photos and distribution map are provided.
["guardstone spider"]

New data on trophic associations of dung beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae) and lemurs (Primates, Lemuroidea) in Madagascar revealed by metabarcoding
Resource use and diet specialisation of Madagascan dung beetles have been little studied especially concerning the possible associations between specific dung beetle and lemur species. Pilot studies have demonstrated that amplicon sequencing is a promising tool for the lemur inventories. In the present contribution, we report the results of the gut content analysis of three endemic Madagascan dung beetles species: Helictopleurus clouei (Harold), Epilissus apotolamproides (Lebis) and Nanos dubitatus (Lebis). Amplicon metagenomics revealed trophic associations of these species with Eulemur sanfordi (Archbold), Eu. fulvus (É.Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire) and Cheirogaleus crossleyi (Grandidier), respectively. The reads of other mammal species, revealed by the analysis, including putative contaminations, are discussed.
["amplicon sequencing"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Gut microbiota and health", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

The first report of Bathynellacea in the subterranean water of Mongolia: A new species of Altainella Camacho, 2020 (Crustacea, Bathynellidae)
We report the first finding of Bathynellacea, discovered in Mongolia. We also report a new species of the genus Altainella Camacho, 2020, which was previously recorded only in the western edge of Russia.Altainella mongoliensis sp. nov. was found in the interstitial hyporheic region of the Onon River Basin, Mongolia, by inserting a core approximately 1.2 m deep and extracting the underground interstitial water. The new species exhibited sexual dimorphism in thoracopod VII, uniquely observed within the genus Altainella. We provide a morphological description and remarks on the new species with molecular information based on the 18S rDNA and partial CO1 gene sequences. We emphasise the need for continued research on the subterranean biodiversity in previously neglected regions by reporting the first discovery of macro-stygobionts in Mongolia.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Ocean Species Discoveries 1–12 — A primer for accelerating marine invertebrate taxonomy
Discoveries of new species often depend on one or a few specimens, leading to delays as researchers wait for additional context, sometimes for decades. There is currently little professional incentive for a single expert to publish a stand-alone species description. Additionally, while many journals accept taxonomic descriptions, even specialist journals expect insights beyond the descriptive work itself. The combination of these factors exacerbates the issue that only a small fraction of marine species are known and new discoveries are described at a slow pace, while they face increasing threats from accelerating global change. To tackle this challenge, this first compilation of Ocean Species Discoveries (OSD) presents a new collaborative framework to accelerate the description and naming of marine invertebrate taxa that can be extended across all phyla. Through a mode of publication that can be speedy, taxonomy-focused and generate higher citation rates, OSD aims to create an attractive home for single species descriptions. This Senckenberg Ocean Species Alliance (SOSA) approach emphasises thorough, but compact species descriptions and diagnoses, with supporting illustrations and with molecular data when available. Even basic species descriptions carry key data for distributions and ecological interactions (e.g., host-parasite relationships) besides universally valid species names; these are essential for downstream uses, such as conservation assessments and communicating biodiversity to the broader public.This paper presents thirteen marine invertebrate taxa, comprising one new genus, eleven new species and one re-description and reinstatement, covering wide taxonomic, geographic, bathymetric and ecological ranges. The taxa addressed herein span three phyla (Mollusca, Arthropoda, Echinodermata), five classes, eight orders and twelve families. Apart from the new genus, an updated generic diagnosis is provided for four other genera. The newly-described species of the phylum Mollusca are Placiphorella methanophila Vončina, sp. nov. (Polyplacophora, Mopaliidae), Lepetodrilus marianae Chen, Watanabe & Tsuda, sp. nov. (Gastropoda, Lepetodrilidae), Shinkailepas gigas Chen, Watanabe & Tsuda, sp. nov. (Gastropoda, Phenacolepadidae) and Lyonsiella illaesa Machado & Sigwart, sp. nov. (Bivalvia, Lyonsiellidae). The new taxa of the phylum Arthropoda are all members of the subphylum Crustacea: Lepechinella naces Lörz & Engel, sp. nov. (Amphipoda, Lepechinellidae), Cuniculomaera grata Tandberg & Jażdżewska, gen. et sp. nov. (Amphipoda, Maeridae), Pseudionella pumulaensis Williams & Landschoff, sp. nov. (Isopoda, Bopyridae), Mastigoniscus minimus Wenz, Knauber & Riehl, sp. nov. (Isopoda, Haploniscidae), Macrostylis papandreas Jonannsen, Riehl & Brandt, sp. nov. (Isopoda, Macrostylidae), Austroniscus indobathyasellus Kaiser, Kniesz & Kihara, sp. nov. (Isopoda, Nannoniscidae) and Apseudopsis daria Esquete & Tato, sp. nov. (Tanaidacea, Apseudidae). In the phylum Echinodermata, the reinstated species is Psychropotes buglossa E. Perrier, 1886 (Holothuroidea, Psychropotidae).The study areas span the North and Central Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the North, East and West Pacific Ocean and depths from 5.2 m to 7081 m. Specimens of eleven free-living and one parasite species were collected from habitats ranging from an estuary to deep-sea trenches. The species were illustrated with photographs, line drawings, micro-computed tomography, confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images. Molecular data are included for nine species and four species include a molecular diagnosis in addition to their morphological diagnosis.The five new geographic and bathymetric distribution records comprise Lepechinella naces Lörz & Engel, sp. nov., Cuniculomaera grata Tandberg & Jażdżewska, sp. nov., Pseudionella pumulaensis Williams & Landschoff, sp. nov., Austroniscus indobathyasellus Kaiser, Kniesz & Kihara, sp. nov. and Psychropotes buglossa E. Perrier, 1886, with the novelty spanning from the species to the family level. The new parasite record is Pseudionella pumulaensis Williams & Landschoff, sp. nov., found in association with the hermit crab Pagurus fraserorum Landschoff & Komai, 2018.

One new species of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 from Shennongjia, Central China (Araneae, Sparassidae)
Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 is currently the largest genus in the family Sparassidae Bertkau, 1872, comprising 255 species. Of these, 154 species have been recorded in China, representing 60.4% of the global species.In October 2023, a spider survey was conducted in Shennongjia National Nature Reserve, Hubei Province, China. After examination and morphological comparison, one new species of the genus Pseudopoda was identified and is described here.In this paper, a new species of Pseudopoda collected in Hubei Province, China, is proposed and named Pseudopoda guanmenshan sp. nov. A detailed description, diagnosis, photographs and distribution map of the new species are provided.
["huntsman spiders"]

Preliminary checklist of spiders (Araneae) from Coiba National Park, Panama
Coiba National Park is an offshore region on the Pacific side of Panama, which hosts several endemic species of animals and plants. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. Despite the title awarded to the Park, knowledge about basic elements of its biodiversity are still lacking, which are of vital relevance for management and conservation policies. For instance, until now, no study had ever monitored the araneofauna diversity of the Park.Here, we provide the first checklist of spider species in Coiba National Park, including the main island and several surrounding islands. We sampled during several field trips carried out from August 2021 to August 2023. We identified at least 152 species (98 genera and 30 families) and we report three new spiders species for Panama, namely Ctenus nigrolineatus Berland (1913), Chapoda gitae Zhang & Maddison (2012) and Sarinda nigra Peckham & Peckham (1892). We discuss the implications of our results and recommend future lines of work that include DNA barcoding, monitoring of population and community dynamics, plus linkage of climatic data from the newly-installed meteorological station on the Island.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Synchronised monitoring of plant and insect diversity: a case study using automated Malaise traps and DNA-based methods
The occurrence and distribution of insects and their possible associations with plant species are largely unknown in Germany and baseline data to monitor future trends are urgently needed. Using newly-designed automated Malaise trap multi-samplers, the occurrence of insect species and their potential associations with plants was monitored synchronously at two contrasting field sites in Germany: an urban botanical garden and a forest research station. Taxa were identified by metabarcoding of the insects and the plant traces present in the preservative ethanol of the Malaise trap samples. For comparison, a botanical survey was conducted in the vicinity of the traps. Across both sites, we identified a total of 1290 exact sequence variants (ESVs) assigned to Insecta, of which 205 are known to be pollinators. In the botanical garden, we detected the occurrence of 128 plant taxa, of which 41 also had one of their known insect pollinator species detected. Insect species richness was highest in May, mainly attributed to an increase in Diptera. These results present a case study of the applicability of automated sampling and DNA-based methods to monitor the timings of flowering and corresponding activity of plant-visiting insects.
["metabarcoding"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Mycena brunnescens (Basidiomycota, Mycenaceae), a new species of Mycena sect. Pterigenae from China
Mycena (Pers.) Roussel (1806) is a large genus of Mycenaceae known for having small to medium-sized basidiomata. It is typified by the species Mycena galericulata (Scop.) Gray. For years, many mycologists have made important contributions to understanding Mycena and several monographs have been published. Three specimens were collected from China that belonged to the genus Mycena. On the basis of morphological analysis and phylogenetic analyses employing DNA sequences, a new species is described.Mycena brunnescens sp. nov. is described as a new species from subtropical areas of China. It is characterised by its brown pileus, whitish lamellae that turns brown when bruised, orange to brown lamellae edges, the absence of pleurocystidia and cheilocystidia with simple or branched excrescences at the apex containing yellowish-brown contents. We performed phylogenetic analyses on a concatenated dataset comprising the internal transcribed spacer and large subunit regions of nuclear ribosomal RNA using Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood methods. The result showed that the new taxon clustered in an independent group and is closely related to M. albiceps and M. flosoides.
["new taxon"]

Monitoring arthropods under the scope of the LIFE-BEETLES project: I - Baseline data with implementation of the Index of Biotic Integrity
The urgent need for conservation efforts in response to the global biodiversity crisis is exemplified by initiatives, such as the EU LIFE BEETLES project. This project aims to preserve endangered arthropod species that are crucial for ecosystem functionality, with a focus on endemic beetle species in Flores, Pico and Terceira Islands (Azores, Portugal): Tarphius floresensis Borges & Serrano, 2017, Pseudanchomenus aptinoides (Tarnier, 1860) and Trechus terrabravensis Borges, Serrano & Amorim, 2004. These species are single island endemics respectively from Flores, Pico and Terceira. They are threatened by environmental degradation, facing the dual challenge of restricted distribution and habitat degradation due to the spread of invasive plants.The project aims to enhance habitat quality and biodiversity conservation through habitat restoration and plant invasive species control measures. These measures are funded by the European Commission and coordinated by the Azorean Environment Directorate-General. The current Data Paper evaluates the effectiveness of the LIFE BEETLES project in improving habitat quality and offers insights into the balance between habitat restoration efforts and endangered species conservation in island ecosystems, utilising as ecological indicator the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) framework.This study establishes a comprehensive database derived from a long-term arthropod monitoring survey that used SLAM (Sea, Land and Air Malaise) traps and pitfall traps. Our findings present a proxy for assessing the overall habitat quality for endemic invertebrates, using arthropods as main indicators.From September 2020 to June 2023, a total of 31 SLAM traps were monitored. The traps were set up as follows: seven in Flores (three in mixed forest and four in native forest), 10 in Pico (four in mixed forest and six in native forest) and 14 in Terceira (three in mixed forest and 11 in native forest). Traps were monitored every three months.In addition, we surveyed the epigean fauna in 19 transects with 15 non-attractive pitfall traps per transect. The transects were set up during two weeks at the end of August every year between 2020 and 2023. Eight transects were established in Flores, consisting of one in pasture, four in mixed forest and three in native forest. Six transects were established in Pico, consisting of two in pastures and four in native forest. Five transects were established in Terceira, consisting of two in mixed forest and three in native forest.A total of 243 arthropod taxa were recorded, with 207 identified at the species or subspecies level. These taxa belonged to four classes, 24 orders and 101 families. Out of the 207 identified taxa, 46 were endemic, 60 were native non-endemic, 80 were introduced and 21 were of indeterminate status. Habitat information is also provided, including general habitat and dominant species composition. This publication contributes to the conservation of highly threatened endemic beetles by assessing habitat quality, based on arthropod communities and habitat description (e.g. native or exotic vegetation).Using the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) to comparing pre- and post-intervention data, we found no significant change within the epigean community. In contrast, the understorey community sampled with SLAM traps experienced a slight global decrease in biotic integrity over the study period. These findings suggest that the short duration of the study may not be sufficient to detect significant changes, as ecosystem recovery often requires long-term monitoring. The observed changes in the understorey community may be attributed to disturbances from intervention activities, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring to assess long-term ecological resilience and recovery.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Checklist of marine macroalgae in two contiguous Marine Protected Areas in the south-western Atlantic
The Costa das Algas Environmental Protection Area (EPA) and the Santa Cruz Wildlife Refuge (WR), located in the Espírito Santo Continental Shelf, Brazil, are outstanding marine protected areas due to their high biodiversity, particularly of macroalgae. Together, these two relatively small protected areas (1,150 and 177 km2, respectively) harbour about a quarter of all macroalgal species recorded in Brazil.The checklist presented herein updates the algal flora of these two protected areas with data obtained until 2019. Two hundred and sixty-five macroalgal taxa were recorded, most of which with vouchers. Checklists based on the collections of each protected area were published on: "Catálogo de Plantas das Unidades de Conservação do Brasil" (https://catalogo-ucs-brasil.jbrj.gov.br/).Besides specimens collected between 2018 and 2019, the algal flora presented herein includes previous records from different Brazilian herbaria (e.g., SP, SPF, ALCB). Herbaria records may include species that do not occur in intertidal reefs (e.g., Laminaria). Overall, 249 macroalgal taxa and one marine angiosperm were recorded in the Costa das Algas EPA (87 new records) and 136 macroalgal taxa and one marine angiosperm in the Santa Cruz WR (46 new records). All taxa are native to Brazil and nine are endemic to Brazil. Our results provide a taxonomic foundation to support management, long-term monitoring and conservation in these protected areas.
["algae"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coastal and Marine Management", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Anisandrus bolavenensis sp. nov. (Col.: Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Xyleborini), a new ambrosia beetle from Laos
The ambrosia beetle genus Anisandrus Ferrari, 1867, is a member of the bark and ambrosia beetle subfamily Scolytinae, Tribe Xyleborini. Currently, it is comprised of 40 species of which four species were recorded in Laos.A new species, Anisandrus bolavenensis sp. nov. is described from the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos. With the inclusion of the species described and recorded here, the diversity of Anisandrus is increased to 41 species, of which five occur in Laos. New distribution records, a synoptic list and a key to the Anisandrus of Laos PDR are presented.
["Ambrosia beetle", "Curculionidae", "Ambrosia", "Biology", "Bark beetle", "Key (lock)", "Subfamily", "Ecology", "Botany", "Genus", "Tribe", "Geography"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of Pupinidius Möllendorff, 1901 (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Enidae) from Jiuzhaigou, Sichuan, China
The genus Pupinidius Möllendorff, 1901 is endemic in China and Nepal and consists of 15 species. China is the distribution centre of it with 12 species being recorded.A new species, Pupinidius pulchellus Chen, Dai, Wu & Ouyang sp. nov. is described from Jiuzhaigou, Sichuan, China. It can be distinguished from congeneric species by the shell with wide and distinct radial stripes; the thin, slightly reflexed and reddish-brown peristome; the unpointed apex; the unfused A-1 and A-2; the sub-globular and well defined bursa copulatrix; the unexpanded diverticle and the presence of epiphallic caecum.
["conchology"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Tardigrade Biology and Ecology"]

A new species of Nesolotis Miyatake, 1966 (Coccinellidae, Coccinellinae, Sticholotidini) from Laos
Nesolotis Miyatake, 1966 shows a high diversity in the Oriental Realm. Here, we recorded this genus in Laos for the first time and provided a detailed description of a new species, namely Nesolotis laotica Lv & Wang, sp. nov.
["Coccinellidea"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Stenoxylita quadrifasciata sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Melandryidae) from Guizhou, southwest China
The genus Stenoxylita Nomura, 1959 (Coleoptera, Melandryidae) currently contains two species, Stenoxylita trialbofasciata (Hayashi & Katö, 1956) from Japan and Shaanxi, China (Konvička 2015) and Stenoxylita sasajii Toyoshima, 2001 from North Vietnam. We discovered a new species of the genus from the Mountain Leigong of Guizhou Province, China.A new species, Stenoxylita quadrifasciata sp. nov., is described from Mountain Leigong, Leishan County, Guizhou Province of southwest China. It is the third species of this genus and the second species of this genus from mainland China.
["false darkling beetles"]

Marine algal (seaweed) flora of Faial Island, Azores
A comprehensive checklist of the marine flora from Faial Island, mid-north Atlantic, is still unavailable, despite the numerous works that gathered data around its coasts for over 150 years. This study brings together and harmonises all macroalgae collections and taxonomical records from multiple projects and teams over the last thirty years.The result is a list of taxonomic records and georeferenced species occurrence data that substantially increases our knowledge of the coastal Azorean marine biodiversity while providing key information for future ecological studies and to support local, marine management and conservation.A total of 2283 specimens belonging to 118 taxa of macroalgae are registered here, comprising 61 Rhodophyta, 26 Chlorophyta, 30 Ochrophyta (Phaeophyceae) and one Cyanophyta (Cyanobacteria). From these, 26 taxa are identified only at the genus level and 92 to species level (47 Rhodophyta, 21 Chlorophyta and 24 Ochrophyta). The list comprises 75 native species, 12 records of uncertain origin and five introductions (Caulerpa prolifera (Forsskål) J.V.Lamouroux, Caulerpa webbiana Montagne, Hydroclathrus tilesii (Endlicher) Santiañez & M.J.Wynne, Asparagopsis armata Harvey and Symphyocladia marchantioides (Harvey) Falkenberg). Codium elisabethiae O.C.Schmidt represents the only Macaronesian endemism known on the Island. Twenty-three species are newly recorded to the algal flora of the Island.
["macroalgae"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A new species of the spider genus Khorata Huber, 2005 (Araneae, Pholcidae), with a list of Khorata species from Vietnam
The genus Khorata Huber, 2005 contains 51 species. It is distributed in the Indo-Malayan Region. Nine species have been recorded from Vietnam.Khorata ninhbinh sp. nov. is described as a new species from Vietnam. In addition, a list of all Khorata species from Vietnam is also provided.

A new species of the genus Euxiphocerus (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) from Korea with checklist and key to species of the genus
Euxiphocerus Parent, 1935 is a small genus consisting of three species only from the Afrotropical region.During a survey of the long-legged flies from Korea, the authors discovered a new species, Euxiphocerus lignicola sp. nov. Detailed morphological characters and photographs of the new species, as well as a checklist and key to species of this genus, are provided herein. The two species described from Oriental China, Systenus jinxiuensis Lin & Yang, 2022 and S. sinensis Yang & Gaimari, 2004, are transferred to Euxiphocerus Parent, 1935 (comb. nov.) by similarity in external morphological characters.
["Euxiphocerus lignicola sp. nov."]

The first discovery of Polypedates teraiensis (Dubois, 1987) (Rhacophoridae, Anura) in China
The genus of Polypedates Tschudi, 1838 currently comprises 25 recognised species with four of these species reported in Yunnan, China. Dubois (1987) speculated the distribution of P. teraiensis in China; however, there was no study carried out to confirm its distribution in the region.We herein describe P. teraiensis as a new national record, based on a specimen collected from Yunnan border region. Phylogenetically, our sequence clustered with the sequences of recognised P. teraiensis specimens from Bangladesh, Myanmar and India. The uncorrected pairwise distances between the specimens from China and other P. teraiensis localities was small, ranging from 0.0-0.7%, based on 16S rRNA gene. Therefore, we report P. teraiensis as a new species record for China.
["Polypedates teraiensis"]

Description of two species of the orb-weaver spider genus Argiope Audouin, 1826 (Araneae, Araneidae) from Xizang, China
The spider genus Argiope Audouin, 1826, comprises 88 species worldwide, including 23 species occurring in China. Two Argiope species were collected by the spider survey on Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon National Nature Reserve, Xizang, southwest China, conducted in 2023.Two species of the orb-weaver spider genus Argiope from Xizang, China are described, including a new species, A. beibeng Mi & Wang, sp. nov. (♂♀) and a known species, A. caesarea Thorell, 1897 (♂♀). The unknown male of A. caesarea is described for the first time.

Distribution of the genus Platycerus Geoffroy (Coleoptera, Lucanidae) in Italy
Stag beetles are saproxylic species that are associated with deadwood in the larval stage and play an important role in forest ecosystem dynamics. In Italy, Platycerus caprea and Platycerus caraboides are two small, elusive stag beetle species, whose known distribution is often limited or referring to old records.The present contribution increases the knowledge on the Italian distribution of P. caprea and P. caraboides, adding 70% more sites when compared to previously published records. Ecological traits, especially related to the altitude-elevation distribution in Italy, are also described for these saproxylic beetles.
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A trawl collected dataset of Johnius (Actinopterygii, Sciaenidae) species in central-western Taiwanese waters
Sciaenidae is one of the most important coastal fisheries in Taiwan, both in production and economic value. It is also significant as the main targetted diet of Chinese white dolphins, Sousa chinensis, especially for the genus Johnius, such as J. taiwanensis, J. belangerii and J. distinctus, which is primarily found in central-western Taiwan coastal waters. Despite an abundance of Johnius species occurrences reported in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and the Taiwan Biodiversity Information Facility (TaiBIF) data portals (Mozambique, Australia, Taiwan, Korea, India, Indonesia, South Africa, Pakistan, Vietnam and China), there are no specific datasets that properly document the regional distribution of this genus, especially in Taiwanese waters. Thus, this paper describes a dataset of genus Johnius occurrences in waters on the central-western coast of Taiwan. The data collection for the present study was conducted from 2009 until 2020 and comprised 62 sampling events and 133 occurrence records. All fish specimens were collected by trawling in Miaoli, Changhwa and Yunlin Counties, Taiwan and brought back to the lab for identification, individual number count and body weight measurement. These processing data have been integrated and established in the Taiwan Fish Database and published in GBIF. This dataset contains six Johnius species and 2,566 specimens, making it comprehensive Johnius fish fauna and spatial distributional data on the coastal habitat in central-western Taiwanese waters.This dataset contains 133 occurrence records of Johnius species (Sciaenidae) with 2,566 specimens, making it the most extensive public dataset of Johnius distribution records in Taiwan. The publication of this dataset through the TaiBIF and GBIF dataset platforms demonstrated that the number of Johnius spatial and temporal records in Taiwan waters is influenced by the topographical structure of the Changyun Rise (CYR) in combination with the cold current of the China Coastal currents and bound with the warm currents of the Kuroshio and the South China Sea on the central-western coast of Taiwan. The data serve as the foundation for understanding the biogeography and Johnius species ecology in Taiwan's coastal waters, which present a 2°C water temperature difference split at the CYR.
["croacker"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Synallactes mcdanieli sp. nov., a new species of sea cucumber from British Columbia, Canada and the Gulf of Alaska, USA (Holothuroidea, Synallactida)
The family Synallactidae comprises mostly deep-sea forms and is the least-studied large taxon amongst deep-sea cucumbers. They are part of the abyssal megafauna and play an important role in modifying the sediment landscape and structuring the communities that live within it. The family embraces the genus Synallactes, which contains approximately twenty-five species from the Pacific, Atlantic (six species), Indian (seven species) and Antarctic Oceans (one species).Synallactes mcdanieli sp. nov. is described from the Northeast Pacific, Knight Inlet, British Columbia, Canada to Kodiak Island, Gulf of Alaska, USA, at depths from 21 to 438 m. This new species is unique amongst the species of the genus Synallactes because of the number and arrangement of dorsal papillae, number of Polian vesicles, together with the entire ossicle arrangement. In addition, this species has the shallowest bathymetric distribution ever recorded for this genus.
["Synallactidae"]
["Echinoderm biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Aquatic life and conservation"]

Preliminary assessment of group composition and activity pattern of the critically endangered Bornean Banded Langur Presbytis chrysomelas chrysomelas in Tanjung Datu National Park
The Bornean banded langur (Presbytis chrysomelas chrysomelas) is critically endangered species primarily found in Sarawak, Malaysia. Albeit this species is in peril, the ecology knowledge of this endemic species of Borneo is still scarce. Thus, a rapid survey employing total count and scan sampling method was conducted between July to August 2023 at Tanjung Datu National Park (TDNP), Sarawak to observe the social interaction of species with the environment. The behaviour of langur was recorded by employing scanning sampling method at 10 minutes intervals. This study sought to provide preliminary data on behavioural ecology of the Bornean banded langur within the national park. During the survey, three groups (consisting two to seven individuals) and a solitary male Bornean banded langur were recorded. The langurs were observed in both dipterocarp forests and coastal forests within the park. The daily activities of the Bornean banded langurs in TDNP were predominantly resting (31%), moving (29%), feeding (26%), vocalizing (14%), but not engaging in other social activities such as grooming, playing and mating. Knowing the behavioural ecological status as well as understanding ecology by identifying the activity pattern of langur is essential to government authorities and pertinent stakeholders to implement conservation strategies for the Bornean banded langur and their habitats.
["Colobine"]
["Animal Behavior and Reproduction", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

Expanding geographic distribution knowledge of Galerina marginata (Batsch) Kühner (Agaricales, Hymenogastraceae) with a novel Antarctic record
The investigation of Agaricales diversity in the Antarctica is limited, with only seven genera reported for the region. Galerina stands out as the genus with the highest species diversity, including 12 species in Antarctica. This research reports the presence of G. marginata in the region, providing the first complete morphological description for the specimen developing in Antarctica. Sampling was conducted during the Austral summer of 2022/2023 as part of the XLI Brazilian Antarctic Operation in Point Smellie, Byers Peninsula, Livingston Island, South Shetland Archipelago, Antarctica. Phylogenetic relationships reconstructed by Maximum Likelihood demonstrate that G. marginata forms a monophyletic clade with over 60% bootstrap support in most branches. The isolate in this study was found to be internal to the main cluster. Evolutionary reconstructions using the Maximum Likelihood method indicate that the branches correspond to the Antarctic isolate being an internal clade within the marginata group. Recording fungal populations in polar regions offers information about their adaptation and survival in inhospitable environments. Understanding the species' distribution in Antarctica encourages future investigations into its ecology and interactions with other organisms. Here, data are presented to establish an initial foundation for monitoring the G. marginata population in Antarctica and assessing the potential impacts of climate change on its development and survival in the forthcoming years.We report the third occurrence of Galerina marginata (Batsch) Kühner in Antarctica and provide, for the first time, a comprehensive morphological description of an individual of the species for the Antarctic continent, accompanied by phylogenetic analyses and comprehensive discussions regarding its diversity and global distribution.
["Ecology", "Archipelago", "Biology", "Clade", "Shetland", "Population", "Phylogenetic tree", "Monophyly", "Geography", "Forestry", "Demography"]
["Polar Research and Ecology", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

Sinobdella longitubulus, a new species of spiny eel (Pisces, Mastacembelidae) from the Zhu-Jiang Basin, with a note on the type locality of S. sinensis (Bleeker, 1870)
The spiny eel genus Sinobdella belongs to the family Mastacembelidae of the order Synbranchiformes. Kottelat and Lim (1994) utilised Rhynchobdella sinensis as the type species to propose the genus. Currently, it contains a single species widespread in eastern and southern China and northern Vietnam.Sinobdella longitubulus, a new species of spiny eel, is here described from the Xi-Jiang of the Zhu-Jiang Basin in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China. It differs from the single congeneric species S. sinensis in having a more or less white-brown reticulated pattern on the flank, two tubular anterior nostrils longer than or equal to the rostral appendage, an anal fin heavily mottled with dark brown markings and white spots and bearing a narrow white distal margin; shorter pre-anal length; and fewer abdominal vertebrae. The validity of this new species is corroborated by its monophyly recovered in a COI gene-based phylogenetic analysis and its significant sequence divergence with S. sinensis. A note on the type locality of S. sinensis is also given; its type specimen is possibly from mountain streams of Jiangxi Province, in the lower Chang-Jiang Basin.
["Sinobdella"]

An update for Halyomorpha halys (Stål, 1855) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae) distribution in Belgium
The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys, represents an important insect pest and subsequently an important agricultural threat due to its polyphagous feeding habits and adaptability to diverse climates. Native from East Asia, its recent establishment in various regions, including North America and Europe, has led to substantial yield losses and economic impacts, which highlight the need for comprehensive research efforts, based on data occurrence by combining those from expert entomologists and citizen scientists. We reported here 14 new occurrences of this insect pest in the three regions of Belgium. Then, these data were merged with data occurrences from other studies and GBIF datasets of Belgium. The combined dataset showed a peak of presence of Halyomorpha halys in October and a dominance of field observations from citizen scientists especially in the nothern part of Belgium, Flanders. Crowd-sourced data have provided valuable insights into the presence and distribution of Halyomorpha halys in Belgium. Given the importance of the generated dataset, it could be asserted that this pest is uniformly distributed across the entire country, which necessitates additional research to evaluate its impact on various crops.
["Brown marmorated bug"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Development of mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I primer sets to construct DNA barcoding library using next-generation sequencing
Insects are one of the most diverse eukaryotic groups on the planet, with one million or more species present, including those yet undescribed. The DNA barcoding system has been developed, which has aided in the identification of cryptic species and undescribed species. The mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I region (mtDNA COI) has been utilised for the barcoding analysis of insect taxa. Thereafter, next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has been developed, allowing for rapid acquisition of massive amounts of sequence data for genetic analyses. Although NGS-based PCR primers designed to amplify the mtDNA COI region have been developed, their target regions were only a part of COI region and/or there were taxonomic bias for PCR amplification. As the mtDNA COI region is a traditional DNA marker for the DNA barcoding system, modified primers for this region would greatly contribute to taxonomic studies. In this study, we redesigned previously developed PCR primer sets that targetted the mtDNA COI barcoding region to improve amplification efficiency and to enable us to conduct sequencing analysis on NGS. As a result, the redesigned primer sets achieved a high success rate (> 85%) for species examined in this study, covering four insect orders (Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Orthoptera and Odonata). Thus, by combining the primers with developed primer sets for 12S or 16S rRNA regions, we can conduct more detailed taxonomic, phylogeographic and conservation genetic studies using NGS.

Dung-beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Aphodiinae, Scarabaeinae) feeding on faeces of steppe marmots Marmota bobak (Rodentia, Sciuridae) in Middle Volga territory
In open terrestrial biomes of Holarctic realm, ground squirrels are recognised as keystone species inhabiting steppes. They shape the plant species composition and diversity and support a fauna of species associated with their burrows. Ground squirrels and associated dung-beetles are important elements of the steppe food webs, yet the trophic associations between species are still poorly studied.The area in the northern outskirts of Obshchy Syrt plateau, on the border of Samara and Orenburg Provinces of Russia was surveyed and scarab beetles (Scarabaeidae) feeding on steppe marmot (Marmota bobak (Müller, 1776)) faeces were collected from six localities. Twenty eight species of two subfamilies – Aphodiinae and Scarabaeinae, - were identified with the majority of species belonging the genus Aphodius Hellwig, 1798. Seven species are recorded as consumers of marmot faeces for the first time. Only two nidicolous specialist species were found which suggests that the studied population of steppe marmots is as result of the recent secondary colonisation and not all the associated scarab beetle faunas were re-established.
["steppe marmot"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Characterisation of the Cinnamomum parthenoxylon (Jack) Meisn (Lauraceae) transcriptome using Illumina paired-end sequencing and EST-SSR markers development for population genetics
Cinnamomum parthenoxylon is an endemic and endangered species with significant economic and ecological value in Vietnam. A better understanding of the genetic architecture of the species will be useful when planning management and conservation. We aimed to characterize the transcriptome of C. parthenoxylon, develop novel molecular markers, and assess the genetic variability of the species. First, transcriptome sequencing of five trees (C. parthenoxylon) based on root, leaf, and stem tissues was performed for functional annotation analysis and development of novel molecular markers. The transcriptomes of C. parthenoxylon were analyzed via an Illumina HiSeqTM 4000 sequencing system. A total of 27,363,199 bases were generated for C. parthenoxylon. De novo assembly indicated that a total of 160,435 unigenes were generated (average length = 548.954 bp). The 51,691 unigenes were compared against different databases, i.e. COG, GO, KEGG, KOG, Pfam, Swiss-Prot, and NR for functional annotation. Furthermore, a total of 12,849 EST-SSRs were identified. Of the 134 primer pairs, 54 were randomly selected for testing, with 15 successfully amplified across nine populations of C. parthenoxylon. We uncovered medium levels of genetic diversity (PIC = 0.52, Na = 3.29, Ne = 2.18, P = 94.07%, Ho = 0.56 and He = 0.47) within the studied populations. The molecular variance was 10% among populations and low genetic differentiation (Fst = 0.06) indicated low gene flow (Nm = 2.16). A reduction in the population size of C. parthenoxylon was detected using BOTTLENECK (VP population). The structure analysis suggested two optimal genetic clusters related to gene flow among the populations. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed higher genetic variation within populations (90%) than among populations (10%). The UPGMA approach and DAPC divided the nine populations into three main clusters. Our findings revealed a significant fraction of the transcriptome sequences and these newlydeveloped novel EST-SSR markers are a very efficient tool for germplasm evaluation, genetic diversity and molecular marker-assisted selection in C. parthenoxylon. This study provides comprehensive genetic resources for the breeding and conservation of different varieties of C. parthenoxylon.
["endangered species"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

New evidence on the identity of the European Helorus species (Hymenoptera, Proctotrupoidea, Heloridae)
Species of Helorus Latreille 1802 are rarely collected endoparasitoids of Chrysopidae larvae (Neuroptera). Previous work on the limits between the European species of this species-poor genus, based on morphology only, has left some uncertainties. Here, we approach these cases and revisit previous taxonomic decisions using freshly collected and museum material.We generated the first large-scale Heloridae DNA barcode dataset, combined these with morphological data in an integrative taxonomic approach, and added information from studying all relevant type material. We found five species, Helorus anomalipes (Panzer, 1798), H. coruscus Haliday, 1857 stat. rev., H. nigripes Förster, 1856, H. ruficornis Förster, 1856, and H. striolatus Cameron, 1906, for which we provide an updated identification key. DNA barcode data are added to publicly available DNA barcode reference databases, for all species, except H. nigripes.
["CO1 barcoding"]

Five new species of the genus Paratemnoides Harvey, 1991 (Pseudoscorpiones, Atemnidae) from China
Paratemnoides Harvey, 1991 is currently represented by 28 species and two subspecies, which are widespread in the world, except for Europe and Antarctica. Paratemnoides sinensis (Beier, 1932) represents the only species of this genus currently recorded from China.Five new Paratemnoides species collected from China are described, including detailed diagnoses and illustrations: P. guangdongensis sp. nov. from Guangdong, P. parvus sp. nov., P. politus sp. nov. and P. yunnanensis sp. nov. from Yunnan and P. trisulcus sp. nov. from Guangxi. An identification key to all known Paratemnoides species from China and a distribution map are also provided.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

The number of Estonian black fungus gnats (Diptera, Sciaridae) doubled: the first records of 64 species
Adult sciarid flies are small to medium-sized, delicate insects, typically black in colour and belonging to the superfamily Sciaroidea within the order Diptera. They exhibit a uniform appearance. Distinguishing them from other families of Sciaroidea is primarily achieved through their typical wing venation. Sciaridae are common in both natural and semi-natural ecosystems, where they play a significant role in decomposition during their larval stage. Prior to the current study, only one specific research project had been conducted on Sciaridae in Estonia. The number of sciarid species identified in Estonia was set at 67.This research, conducted in north-eastern Estonia during 2015 and 2016, presents a comprehensive overview of Sciaridae diversity, shedding light on previously understudied aspects of Estonia's biodiversity. A total of 1038 specimens were identified, representing 91 species, amongst which 64 were previously unknown to Estonia. Notably, Corynoptera winnertzi (Mohrig, 1993) emerged as the most abundant species, followed by Corynoptera irmgardis (Lengersdorf, 1930), Corynoptera crassistylata (Frey, 1948) and Bradysia trivittata (Staeger, 1840). The genus Corynoptera Winnertz, 1867 exhibited the highest diversity, consistent with findings from broader European studies. This study underscores the importance of ongoing surveys for better understanding the distribution and composition of Sciaridae species in Estonia, emphasising the need for further research to delve into the intricate ecology and biology of these insects.
["Sciaridae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Computable species descriptions and nanopublications: applying ontology-based technologies to dung beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeinae)
Taxonomy has long struggled with analysing vast amounts of phenotypic data due to computational and accessibility challenges. Ontology-based technologies provide a framework for modelling semantic phenotypes that are understandable by computers and compliant with FAIR principles. In this paper, we explore the use of Phenoscript, an emerging language designed for creating semantic phenotypes, to produce computable species descriptions. Our case study centers on the application of this approach to dung beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeinae).We illustrate the effectiveness of Phenoscript for creating semantic phenotypes. We also demonstrate the ability of the Phenospy python package to automatically translate Phenoscript descriptions into natural language (NL), which eliminates the need for writing traditional NL descriptions. We introduce a computational pipeline that streamlines the generation of semantic descriptions and their conversion to NL. To demonstrate the power of the semantic approach, we apply simple semantic queries to the generated phenotypic descriptions. This paper addresses the current challenges in crafting semantic species descriptions and outlines the path towards future improvements. Furthermore, we discuss the promising integration of semantic phenotypes and nanopublications, as emerging methods for sharing scientific information. Overall, our study highlights the pivotal role of ontology-based technologies in modernising taxonomy and aligning it with the evolving landscape of big data analysis and FAIR principles.
["Phenoscript"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Biomedical Text Mining and Ontologies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Otacilia khezu sp. nov., a new troglobitic spider (Araneae, Phrurolithidae) from Guangxi, China
Only two Otacilia Thorell, 1897 species with troglobitic characteristics have been recorded from Laos and no records of troglobitic Otacilia species from China.A new troglobitic species is reported from Guangxi, China: Otacilia khezu Lin & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀). Photos and morphological descriptions of the new species are presented; the type specimens of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IZCAS), Beijing.

Biodiversity of testate amoebae in Sphagnum bogs: the dataset from forest-steppe ecotone (Middle Volga Territory, Russia)
Testate amoebae are a polyphyletic group of unicellular eukaryotic organisms that are characterised by a rigid shell and inhabit mostly freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. They are particularly abundant in peatlands, especially in Sphagnum-dominated biotopes. Peatland hydrology is the most important influence on testate amoebae communities. The good preservation of the shells in peat deposits and their response to hydrological regime changes are the principles for palaeohydrological reconstructions. Any changes in the water balance of mires should be expected to have far-reaching effects on biogeochemical cycles, productivity, carbon dioxide and methane exchange.This paper presents a dataset (Darwin Core Archive – DwC-A) on the distribution of Sphagnum-dwelling testate amoebae in nine mires located in the forest-steppe subzone of the East European Plane. The dataset includes information about 86 taxa belonging to 29 genera and contains 3,123 occurrences of 49,874 individuals. The following environmental variables are provided: microtopography, oxidising and reducing potential, total mineralisation, substrate temperature, acidity, substrate wetness and water table depth. These data might be used for biogeographical and palaeoecological studies, including quantitative reconstructions.
["the Volga Upland"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

Ground spiders (Chelicerata, Araneae) of an urban green space: intensive sampling in a protected area of Rome (Italy) reveals a high diversity and new records to the Italian territory
Urbanisation is a rapidly growing global phenomenon leading to habitat destruction, fragmentation and degradation. However, urban areas can offer opportunities for conservation, particularly through the presence of green spaces which can even provide important habitats for imperilled species. Spiders, which play crucial roles in ecosystem functioning, include many species that can successfully exploit urban environments. Placed in the middle of the Mediterranean global biodiversity hotspot, Italy possesses an exceptionally rich spider fauna, yet comprehensive data on urban spider communities are still limited. More information on urban spiders in Italy would be extremely beneficial to support conservation efforts, especially in central and southern Italy, where knowledge on the spider fauna is largely incomplete.The current study focused on the spider diversity of a large protected area (Appia Antica Regional Park) in urban Rome, Italy. A total of 120 spider species belonging to 83 genera and 28 families were identified, with 70 species being new records to the Province of Rome, 39 to the Latium Region and two (Pelecopsis digitulus Bosmans & Abrous, 1992 and Palliduphantes arenicola (Denis, 1964)) to Italy.Forty-one species were recorded during autumn/winter sampling and 107 in spring/summer. The spider fauna recorded from the study area included about 37% of the total spider fauna known from the Province of Rome, 28% of that of the Latium Region and 7% of the entire Italian territory. The most represented families in terms of species richness were Gnaphosidae and Linyphiidae, which accounted for more than 40% of the sampled fauna. Lycosidae were the most abundant family (29% of captured individuals), followed by Zodariidae (16% of captured individuals), Linyphiidae (13% of captured individuals) and Gnaphosidae (7.5% of captured individuals). From a biogeographical point of view, most of the collected species belonged to chorotypes that extend for large areas across Europe and the Mediterranean. The research highlights the role of urban green spaces as refuges for spiders and the importance of arachnological research in urban areas as sources of information on spider biodiversity at larger scales.
["Arachnids"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new spider species of Belisana Thorell, 1898 (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Guizhou Province, south-western China
China exhibits remarkable diversity of the spider genus Belisana Thorell, 1898, with 62 species recorded to date. However, the largest number of Belisana species was found in Yunnan Province (23 ssp.), while only seven species were found in Guizhou Province.In this paper, Belisana wangchengi sp. nov. as a new species is described from Guizhou Province, China.

Heteropoda lebar sp. nov.: a new species from the highlands in Pahang State, Malaysia (Sparassidae, Heteropodinae) with a distinct sexual colour dimorphism
The genus Heteropoda Latreille, 1804, is ranked as the second within the family Sparassidae Bertkau, 1872. Up to now, sixteen species of this genus have been described from Malaysia.A new species of this genus in the highlands of Pahang State, Malaysia is described under the name of H. lebar sp. nov.. Individuals of the new species live in primary forests on forest floor, active in the night on the leaf litter.
["high diversity"]

New records for the Helius Lepeletier & Serville fauna (Diptera, Limoniidae) of China
The genus Helius Lepeletier & Serville, 1828 is globally distributed with 232 species and subspecies, of which 25 have been known to occur in China. Amongst the Chinese Helius crane flies, 24 species are distributed in southern China. The species diversity of Helius in other Chinese regions may be severely underestimated due to a lack of investigation. Some investigations on crane flies in Inner Mongolia, China have been initiated by the authors together with other entomologists, with Helius being one of the key targets of attention.Two Helius species, H. (Helius) flavus (Walker, 1856) and H. (H.) gracillimus Alexander, 1938, are added to the Chinese fauna. The two newly-recorded species also represent the first records of the crane fly tribe Elephantomyiini in Inner Mongolia. Re-descriptions and illustrations of the two newly-recorded species are presented.

Further records of social parasitic ants in Europe and review of the Bulgarian species
Social parasitic ants exploit the colonies of other ant species, either permanently or temporarily. The permanent parasites are amongst the rarest species of ants, although their hosts may be very common. Due to their rarity and often restricted distribution range, most of them are listed as vulnerable. Filling in the gaps in geographical and host ranges will advance our understanding of the social parasitic lifestyle's origin and evolution.This study reports the first records of the slave-makers Myrmoxenus algerianus (Cagniant, 1968) for Europe (Italy, Sicily) and M. ravouxi (André 1896) for Albania and the inquiline Anergates atratulus (Schenck, 1852) for Malta (Gozo). We also report new localities of Camponotus universitatis Forel, 1890 for Albania and Myrmoxenus gordiagini Ruzsky, 1902, M. kraussei (Emery, 1915) and Anergates atratulus for Bulgaria. Diversity, type of parasite-host relationships, host range, distribution and conservation of social parasitic ant species in Bulgaria are discussed. Although social parasitic ants are still understudied in Bulgaria, they represent 21% of the regional ant fauna.
["ants"]

Synchroa medogensis, a new species of Synchroidae (Coleoptera) from Xizang, China
Synchroa medogensis, a new species of Synchroidae Lacordaire, 1859, is described and illustrated, based on a single male collected from Mêdog, Xizang, China. This new species is close to S. elongatula Nikitsky, 1999 and S. melanotoides Lewis, 1895, but could be distinguished by the elongated antennae and elytra, the apically narrowed prosternal process and the stout parameres.The new information of this new species provided in this paper include: description, type information, distribution and comparison amongst S. medogensis sp. nov., S. elongatula and S. melanotoides.
["Synchroa"]

Two new species of Nemoura Latreille and a new combination of Amphinemura Ris (Plecoptera, Nemouridae) from the Nanling Mountains Region of China
The family Nemouridae, belonging to Plecoptera, comprises 21 genera and over 700 species found globally, with the greatest diversity observed in temperate regions. Nemoura Latreille, 1796 and Amphinemura Ris, 1902 are two largest genera of the family with the highest diversity in China.Two new species of Nemoura Latreille, 1796 of the family Nemouridae, Nemoura exterclava Zhu, Rehman & Du sp. nov. and Nemoura cerciserrata Zhu, Du & Rehman sp. nov., are described and illustrated from the Nanling Mountains Region in Guangdong Province, southern China. The morphological characteristics of the new species are compared with related taxa. Additionally, the status of Indonemoura voluta Li & Yang, 2008, originally from Maoershan National Natural Reserve in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, was addressed and moved to the genus Amphinemura Ris, 1902 on the basis of newly-caught topotypes.
["Nemoura"]
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Hungarian Social, Economic and Educational Studies"]

Interspecific variation in the diet of Symphalangus syndactylus and Macaca nemestrina at Genting Highlands, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia
Primate communities in the Genting Highlands consist of a single species of Hylobatidae and four species of Cercopithecidae, which are known to exhibit social interaction behaviour. Thus, a study on the diets of Symphalangus syndactylus (siamang; family Hylobatidae) and Macaca nemestrina (pig-tailed macaque; family Cercopithecidae) was carried out at Genting Highlands, in order to compare the dietary preferences and interspecific competition between the two primate families. A DNA metabarcoding approach was used to analyse diet intake using non-invasive samples based on the trnL region. Based on the 140 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) generated, 26 plant orders, 46 different families, 60 genera and 49 species were identified from 23 different plant classes. Fabaceae and Moraceae were classified as the most preferred plants at the family level for S. syndactylus; meanwhile, Piperaceae and Arecaceae were classified as the most preferred for M. nemestrina. Only six out of the 60 different plant genera classified in this study, were found to be consumed by both species. Therefore, the low similarity of preferred plants in the diets between the two families suggests that there is little interspecific competition. These findings are important for future conservation management of highland primates, especially in the Genting Highlands.
["Cercopithecidae"]
["Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Gut microbiota and health"]

Alien ants spreading through Europe: Brachyponera chinensis and Nylanderia vividula in Italy
The number of known alien ant species throughout Europe has been steadily increasing during the last few decades and Italy has been no exception, with four new taxa reported in the last five years. Here, we document new data on the Asian needle ant Brachyponera chinensis (Emery, 1895), an invasive alien species whose first establishment in Europe was detected in the southern Italian city of Naples in 2022 and which has now been found near Lake Como in northern Italy, representing the second European record, about 730 km distant from the first. Furthermore, we report for the first time the presence of Nylanderia vividula (Nylander, 1846) in the country, based on specimens collected both in Rome and near Lake Como. This is at least the second Nylanderia species established in the country after N. jaegerskioeldi, first reported in 2018. Unlike B. chinensis, N. vividula is not considered an ecological and health threat in the invaded range and is already known to occur in several other European countries. While only a few introduced ants in Europe are considered serious ecological, economic or health threats, the increasing circulation of several alien species and the poor ability to swiftly track their movements and detect their establishment can render management very difficult.
["invasive alien species"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Mexicope Hooker, 1985 (Crustacea, Isopoda) — the first record of Acanthaspidiidae Menzies, 1962 from the Mediterranean Sea
The marine isopod family Acanthaspidiidae Menzies, 1962 (Asellota, Janiroidea) has global distribution from shelf to hadal depth. The majority of species has been recorded from relatively deep waters and the Southern Hemisphere. To date, 36 species have been described in the family belonging to three genera: Ianthopsis Beddard, 1886; Iolanthe Beddard, 1886; and Mexicope Hooker, 1985.Here, a new species of Mexicope is described from Maltese waters, adding a fourth species to the genus. It is the first member of the family reported from the Mediterranean Sea. The new species can be recognised by the unique combination of the following characters: cephalothorax with pre-ocular spine large and pointed anterolaterally, rostral projection blunt, eyes reduced; pereonal sternites each with one ventral spine; pereonite two lateral margins with single projection; pleotelson posterior apex long, projecting to approximately half of the length of the uropod protopod; pleopods I distolateral lobes projecting beyond distomedial lobes, apices curved and pointed laterally; uropod exopod length approximately 0.5 endopod length. An identification key to the species of Mexicope is presented and the generic diagnoses of Ianthopsis and Mexicope are compared, discussed and revised.

Characterising the north-western European species of Phaenoglyphis Förster, 1869 (Hymenoptera: Figitidae: Charipinae) with novel insights from DNA barcode data
The taxonomy of the hymenopteran parasitoid subfamily Charipinae (Hymenoptera: Cynipoidea: Figitidae) has, until recently, been in a state of chaos. While this situation has improved significantly in recent years, most of the efforts were focused on morphological data of typically old specimens. Here, we present the first integrative approach to describe the diversity of the genus Phaenoglyphis Förster, 1869 from north-western Europe.For seven (of a total of 17) species, we provide DNA barcode data. Phaenoglyphis belizini Pujade-Villar, 2018 and Phaenoglyphis evenhuisi Pujade-Villar & Paretas-Martínez, 2006 are recorded for the first time from Germany. All DNA barcodes and specimen data were added to the publicly available GBOL and BOLD reference database. The presence of a 6 bp long deletion in the CO1 barcode region that is characteristic to the genus and unique amongst Figitidae supports the monophyly of Phaenoglyphis.
["Charipinae"]

A non-native fish species reaches the south-western European waters: the Atlantic croaker, Micropogonias undulatus (Acanthuriformes, Sciaenidae) and its invasion history in Europe
The Atlantic croaker Micropogonias undulatus, a sciaenid fish native to the North Atlantic American coast, holds importance in recreational and commercial fisheries. Moreover, its potential as an invasive species should be noted, given its expansion and establishment in Atlantic European waters. This study reports its southernmost occurrence in Europe, in the Gulf of Cadiz. Morphological and molecular analysis confirmed its identity, revealing genetic similarities to US sequences. A comprehensive review of historical non-native distribution records underscored the species' expansion throughout European waters, suggesting human-mediated introduction. The escalating frequency of such arrivals emphasises the critical need for effective monitoring and management efforts in order to control non-native species in this region.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine and fisheries research"]

A new species of Rhopalopsole (Plecoptera, Leuctridae) from Hainan Province, China
Hainan Province is an island in the south of China and belongs to the Oriental Region. It has a unique geographical location and superior climatic conditions, providing a good living environment for Leuctridae insects. However, the species richness of the stonefly family Leuctridae in Hainan is low. Two species in total have been recorded, Rhopalopsole bawanglinga Li, Li & Yang, 2023 and Rhopalopsole hainana Li & Yang, 2010.A new species of Leuctridae (Plecoptera) from Wuzhi Mountains, Hainan Province of south China, Rhopalopsole wuzhishana sp. nov. is described and illustrated. We summarised the Leuctridae in Hainan Province and provide supplemental description and colour plates of Rhopalopsole hainana Li & Yang, 2010.

New records of amphibians from Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam
Since the establishment of the Vu Quang National Park in 2002 in Ha Tinh Province, central Vietnam, several surveys on the amphibian fauna have been undertaken in this protected area. In 2009, Nguyen et al. provided a list of 23 amphibian species from Vu Quang National Park. In addition, a new species was described in 2021 from the National Park, namely Vietnamophryne vuquangensis.As a result of our field surveys in 2013 and 2023, a total of 29 species of amphibians was recorded from the Vu Quang National Park. Six of them are recorded for the first time from Ha Tinh Province, comprising three species of Megophryidae, one species of Dicroglossidae, one species of Ranidae and one species of Rhacophoridae. In addition, we provide morphological data and ecological notes on the aforementioned species.

New record of Joffre’s pipistrelle, Mirostrellus joffrei (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae), in China
Mirostrellus joffrei Thomas, 1915 is the sole species within the genus Mirostrellus and its occurrence is notably rare in China. Despite the recent discovery of four previously unreported specimens from western Yunnan, China (Zaoteng River, 25.31°N, 98.80°E, altitude 1451 m) at the National Museum of Prague in the Czech Republic, comprehensive descriptions or detailed accounts of this species within China have yet to be published.During a field expedition within the Guanyinshan Provincial Nature Reserve, Yuanyang, Yunnan, China, a bat was captured using a mist net. The specimen was of moderate size, with its ventral surface presenting a golden-brown hue and its dorsal surface ranging from dark brown to obsidian. The forearm measured 37.31 mm, while the fifth digit was conspicuously diminished in comparison to the others. The snout was robust, featuring prominent buccal glands. It was characterised by a well-developed upper frame and a barely visible low sagittal crest. The upper canines possessed well-developed posterior cusps. The dentition comprised two upper and two lower premolars, with the first upper premolar being notably small and the lower molars being distinctly myotodont. These attributes correspond with the known traits of Mirostrellus joffrei. Phylogenetically, the sequence of this specimen clustered with that of M. joffrei, forming an independent clade. Through an examination of its morphological characteristics and a phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cyt b), cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and recombination activating gene 2 (RAG2) sequences, we identified the specimen as M. joffrei, thus confirming the presence of Joffre’s pipistrelle in China.
["first record"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview"]

A new species of Otacilia Thorell, 1897 (Araneae, Phrurolithidae) from Yintiaoling National Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China
Phrurolithidae is a family of spiders with 395 species belonging to 26 genera distributed worldwide, of which 205 species belong to 17 genera was recorded in China.A new species of the genus Otacilia Thorell, 1897 is described from Yintiaoling National Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China. Diagnosis, morphological description, photos of the habitus and genitalia of the new species are provided.
["Dionycha"]

Insect floral visitors of thermo-Mediterranean shrubland maquis (Ajaccio, Corsica, France)
The Mediterranean Region represents a biodiversity hotspot with a high rate of endemism. In its western part, Corsica Island is notable in terms of biodiversity due to its large surface and its large range of habitats from seaside to alpine biotopes. Amongst diverse groups, insects, notably the main orders of pollinators composed of Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera and Lepidoptera, represent a good part of the insular richness.Our sampling effort focused on the insects from these four orders visiting flowers in a characteristic thermo-Mediterranean vegetation. Our database is an insight into the Corsican floral visitor biodiversity from three sites separated by a few kilometres in the region of Ajaccio during 13 months over two successive years. In total, 4012 specimens were sampled and 252 species or morpho-species identified from 133 genera and 47 families. Beetles were by far the most abundant order representing about 54% of the sampled specimens. The most diverse order was the Hymenoptera representing 39% of the species. Our continuous survey showed that these orders are temporally dynamic both between years and between seasons in terms of abundance and diversity.
["insects"]

Pelecocera (Pelecocera) tricincta and Pelecocera (Chamaesyrphus) caledonica (Diptera, Syrphidae) reared from Rhizopogon fungal host in Finland
MtDNA COI barcodes have frequently been used in identification to associate an unknown life stage in insects with a known species. This study reports the discovery of hoverfly larvae in the fungal fruit bodies of Rhizopogon luteolus Fr. & Nordholm, 1817 in Finland. The identity of the larvae was firstly resolved using mtDNA COI barcodes generated from the larvae and tree-based identification confirming the species Pelecocera (Pelecocera) tricincta Meigen, 1822 and Pelecocera (Chamaesyrphus) caledonica (Collin, 1940) (Diptera, Syrphidae). Obtained pupae were reared into adult flies and produced the same two species. The morphological features of these mycophagous larvae are compared with those of other fungus-feeding hoverfly species. This study confirms Rhizopogon luteolus as fungal host for these Pelecocera species in the Western Palaearctic Region.
["mycophagy"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Discovery of presumably introduced spiders, Oedignatha scrobiculata Thorell, 1881 (Araneae, Liocranidae) and Boagrius qiong Lin & Li, 2022 (Araneae, Palpimanidae) on Chichi-jima Island, the Ogasawara Islands, Japan
The spider fauna of the Ogasawara Islands, oceanic islands located 1,000 km south of mainland Japan was comprehensively examined by the National Museum of Nature and Science in 2011, which revealed that approximately 70% of the spider fauna was composed of non-native species. Following the preceding study, however, only descriptions of several new species have been added and no major updates have been made for the overall spider fauna of the Islands.The faunistic survey of spiders conducted on Chichi-jima Island, the largest island in the Ogasawara Islands in 2023 revealed the presence of two ground-dwelling spider species, Oedignatha scrobiculata Thorell, 1881 (Araneae, Liocranidae) and Boagrius qiong Lin & Li, 2022 (Araneae, Palpimanidae) on the Island. This represents the first record of the two species from Japan, the first record of palpimaid spiders from Japan and the initial documentation of liocranid spiders in the Ogasawara Islands.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Two new species and one new record of Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 (Araneae, Oonopidae) from China
Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 is a large genus of oonopid spiders that currently contains 126 species, amongst which, 28 have been recorded in China.Two new Ischnothyreus species, Ischnothyreus daheling Tong & Zhang, sp. nov. and Ischnothyreus longyang Tong & Zhang, sp. nov., are described, based on specimens collected from Yunnan Province and Ischnothyreus velox Jackson, 1908 is recorded in China for the first time, based on material collected from Guangxi Province. All three species are illustrated.

First record of Arion vulgaris Moquin-Tandon, 1855 (Arionidae) from Armenia
Arion vulgaris Moquin-Tandon, 1855 is amongst the fastest-spreading terrestrial slugs Europe-wide. In recent years, it has been recorded in Canada, Mexico and continues to expand eastwards into Eurasia. Renowned for its high invasiveness, combatting its swift spread creates significant challenges in organising effective preventative measures.This study presents the first record of Arion vulgaris from Armenia, which is the second record of this species' invasion of the Caucasus. In 2022, a substantial population of A. vulgaris was observed close to the City of Stepanavan, which is also the first record in Armenia of the family Arionidae. How the species was introduced to Armenia remains unknown. Identification of Arion vulgaris was conducted, based on external and genital morphology and mitochondrial CO1 (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1) gene sequencing, revealing notable similarities with Central European clades. Our results confirm the introduction and distribution of A. vulgaris to Armenia. Invasion of such species into Armenia will require additional monitoring and would be aided by further research on Armenia’s mollusc fauna in the future.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Potamophylax kosovaensis sp. nov. (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae), a new species of the Potamophylax winneguthi species cluster from the Ibër River Basin in Kosovo
The Potamophylax winneguthi species cluster comprises species with limited distribution, currently documented from Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Bulgaria.In this paper, we describe a new species, Potamophylax kosovaensis sp. nov., discovered in two tributaries of the Ibër River Basin, within the Kopaonik Mountains of the Republic of Kosovo. Morphologically, males of this species closely resemble those of P. idliri Ibrahimi, Bilalli & Kučinić, 2022 from Serbia's Jastrebac Mountain and P. humoinsapiens Ibrahimi & Bilalli, 2023 from the Sharr Mountains in the Republic of Kosovo. However, the new species can be distinguished by its smaller aedeagus, thicker and differently-shaped parameres, as well as distinctive patterns and elongated spines on the parameres. Notably, this species is restricted to spring areas, indicating sensitivity to water pollution and habitat degradation. Additionally, we provide a list of caddisfly species found in sympatry with the new species.Potamophylax kosovaensis sp. nov. is the third known species within the Potamophylax winneguthi species cluster, identified in the Republic of Kosovo.
["freshwater biodiversity"]

New descriptions of the larval and pupal stages of Orthocladius nitidoscutellatus and Psectrocladius nevalis from Xizang, China (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Tibetan Plateau is one of the most typical areas of biodiversity in the world because of its unique environmental and regional units, which breed unique biological communities and concentrate on many unique and rare wild animals and plants. Research on Chironomidae in the Tibetan Plateau is relatively weak. At present, the identification of Chironomidae species mainly depends on male adults, while identification of larvae and pupae is relatively difficult and there is less research on them.During the investigations of insect diversity in the Tibetan Plateau, larval and pupal stages of Orthocladius nitidoscutellatus Lundström, 1915 and Psectrocladius nevalis Akhrorov, 1977 were described and illustrated. Matching and identification of larval and pupal stages were based on DNA barcodes. Neighbour-joining trees were reconstructed, based on known Orthocladius and Psectrocladius COI DNA barcodes, respectively.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Standardised inventories of spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) of Macaronesia III: dry habitats of Cabo Verde Archipelago (São Vicente and Santo Antão)
With this publication, we contribute to the knowledge of the arachnofauna of Cabo Verde, focusing specifically on the Islands of Santo Antão and São Vicente. Data were obtained from samples collected as part of the project "Macaronesian Islands as a testing ground to assess biodiversity drivers at multiple scales" (FCT - MACDIV, 2015-2018). This project aimed to identify the factors influencing community assembly in Macaronesian islands. For the Cabo Verde Islands, we focused on dry habitats with the additional aim to revise the aracnofauna of this poorly-known fauna. We applied the COBRA (Conservation Oriented Biodiversity Rapid Assessment) sampling protocol in ten 50 m x 50 m dry shrub plots, with five on each of the two islands, using pitfall traps, sweep-netting and active search. Additional ad-hoc samples were also collected and reported.Our sampling of spiders from Cabo Verde (Santo Antão and São Vicente) yielded a total of 3,368 specimens, of which 1300 (39%) were adults. The samples include 21 families, 87 species, 18 of which are morphospecies awaiting formal identification or description at species level. Species in the families Oxyopidae (2 spp.) and Araneidae (8 spp.) were the most abundant, making up 49% of the specimens. From the 68 named species, 14 are endemic to Cabo Verde, 40 are native non-endemic and 14 are introduced. The colonisation status of Cithaeron reimoseri Platnick, 1991 is unknown. Endemic species accounted for 24% (n = 818) of the specimens and native non-endemic for 63% (n = 2122). A total of 29 species were new records for Cabo Verde, with 15 for Santo Antão, seven for São Vicente and seven for both Islands.
["Arthropoda"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

DNA-based occurrence dataset on peatland fungal communities studied by metabarcoding in north-western Siberia
The paper represents the first DNA-based occurrence dataset on peatland fungal communities published for north-western Siberia, the first for Russia and complements several existing datasets on metabarcoding of peat soils globally.The aim of the present publication is to describe the first DNA-based occurrence dataset on fungal communities in peat soils and other substrates studied by the eDNA approach in the Mukhrino raised bog, located in a large paludified area of north-western Siberia. A comparison of the species diversity of larger fungi identified by the conventional approach and by eDNA showed a high proportion of shared taxa. Other groups (mainly Ascomycota), described by metabarcoding, revealed high diversity compared with conventional observation. Overall, the species richness identified in one peatland locality (the Mukhrino Bog) was comparable in number of species to the global estimation of fungal diversity in peatlands, previously reported in literature.
["peat"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

First record of the hippolytid shrimp Hippolyte australiensis (Stimpson, 1860) (Crustacea, Decapoda) from China
Two specimens of the genus Hippolyte were examined from the caridean collections of the Marine Biological Museum, Chinese Academy of Sciences. These specimens were captured in the South China Sea in 1987. Detailed inspection revealed that their morphological features closely match the (re)descriptions of Hippolyte australiensis, especially in the presence of a long, distinct lateral carina on the rostrum, a dorsally unarmed rostral border, and four prominent terminal spines on the dactylus of the last three pereiopods.The discovery of Hippolyte australiensis in Chinese waters represents a significant expansion of its geographic distribution from the South Pacific to the North Pacific. Furthermore, an additional taxonomical report of H. australiensis is provided since its retrieval in 2001.
["Hippolytid shrimp"]

New faunistic data on Diptera (Hexapoda, Insecta) from the Ziarat Juniperus forest ecosystem (Pakistan)
This study presents the first faunistic record and DNA barcoding for some Diptera species recorded from the Juniperus forest ecosystem of Balochistan, Pakistan. DNA barcoding was used to explore species diversity of Dipterans and collections carried out using a Malaise trap between December 2018 to December 2019. This process involved sequencing the 658 bp Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) gene.Amongst the collected Diptera specimens, nine families were identified, representing 13 genera. These species include Atherigona soccata (Rondani, 1871), Atherigona varia (Schiner, 1868), Chironomus dorsalis (Meigen, 1818), Eupeodes corollae (Linnaeus, 1758), Eristalis tenax (Linnaeus,1758), Gonia ornata (Meigen, 1826), Lucilia sericata (Meigen, 1826), Paragus quadrifasciatus (Linnaeus, 1758), Pollenia rudis (Fabricius, 1794), Ravinia pernix (Thompson, 1869), Sarcophaga dux (Thompson, 1869), Trupanea amoena (Schiner, 1868) and Wohlfahrtia bella (Linnaeus, 1758). The families Syrphidae and Sarcophagidae exhibited the highest representation, each comprising three genera and three species. They were followed by the family Muscidae, which had a single genus and two species. Anthomyiidae, Chironomidae, Calliphoridae, Polleniidae, Tachinidae and Tephritidae were represented by only one genus and one species. A nique Barcode Index Number (BIN) was allotted to Tachinidae (specie i.e Gonia ornata). The results indicated that barcoding through cytochrome oxidase I is an effective approach for the accurate identification and genetic studies of Diptera species. This discovery highlights the significant diversity of this insect order in study region. Furthermore, a comprehensive list of other Diptera species remains elusive because of difficulties in distinguishing them, based on morphology and a lack of professional entomological knowledge.

First report of the family Ideoroncidae (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpiones) from China, with description of a new species
The pseudoscorpion genus Shravana Chamberlin, 1930, belonging to the family Ideoroncidae Chamberlin, 1930, currently contains 13 species. To date, no ideoroncid species has been recorded from China.The family Ideoroncidae Chamberlin, 1930 is reported from China for the first time. A new species of the genus Shravana Chamberlin, 1930, collected from Xizang Autonomous Region, China, is described under the name of Shravana zhui Gao & Zhang, sp. nov. on the basis of both sexes. The finding of this new species expands the distribution range of this family in Asia.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

New records of Harpiola isodon (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) from the Chinese mainland
The new species, Harpiola isodon Kuo et al., 2006, was described from Taiwan, China. So far, no distribution of this species outside Taiwan has been reported.During two field investigations of small mammals in Guanyin Mountains Provincial Nature Reserve, Yuanyang, Yunnan, China, in April 2022 and May 2023, five individuals of Harpiola were collected in the mid-montane evergreen broad-leaved forest. Our morphological and molecular results reveal that these individuals from the Chinese mainland belong to Harpiola isodon, extending the occurrence of this species well beyond its known distributions in Taiwan, China and Vietnam.

A new, unusually large, Clavicornaltica Scherer, 1974 flea beetle from Borneo, described and sequenced in the field by citizen scientists (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae)
The genus Clavicornaltica Scherer 1974 consists of very small, soil-dwelling flea beetles in South, Southeast and East Asia. Due to their diminutive size and morphological similarities, very little is known about their ecology and taxonomical diversity. It is likely that further studies will reveal this genus to be much more speciose than the 30 species currently recognised.A new species of Clavicornaltica from Brunei Darussalam is described, C. mataikanensis Otani et al., sp. nov. This is the second species of this genus recorded from Ulu Temburong National Park.
["Lowland Dipterocarp rainforest"]

Two new species of Lysiteles Simon, 1895 from Cibagou National Nature Reserve, Xizang, China (Araneae, Thomisidae)
Lysiteles Simon, 1895 contains 64 nominal species distributed in East, South and South Asia. It possesses very high species diversity in China (with 46 and 32 endemics), Bhutan (with 9 and 1 endemic) and Nepal (with 8 and 4 endemics).In June 2023, a spider survey of Cibagou National Nature Reserve, Xizang, China was carried out. After examination and morphological comparison, two Lysiteles species were recognised as new to science.Two new species of Lysiteles Simon, 1895 collected from Cibagou National Nature Reserve, Xizang, China are described: L. cibagou sp. nov. (♂♀) and L. tangi sp. nov. (♂♀). Diagnostic photos of habitus and copulatory organs and a distributional map are provided.
["Crab spider"]

Catalogue of type specimens deposited in the Polychaeta Collection of the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo Léon (Mexico)
In Mexico, there are six scientific collections of polychaetous annelids. The "Colección Poliquetológica" from the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León houses one of the three most important collections of annelids in the country, based on a number of lots and number of type materials deposited, as well as geographical coverage.A catalogue of type materials of polychaete annelids housed at the “Colección Poliquetológica” from the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (México) is presented for the first time. The Collection contains 37 holotypes, 174 paratypes and one syntype. These type materials are grouped in 15 families, 35 genera and 54 species of marine worms. Types were described mostly from the Mexican waters, with a low number of types from Ecuador, El Salvador, Argentina, USA, Philippines, New Caledonia and Japan.
["annelids"]

Long-term monitoring of the fish community in the Minho Estuary (NW Iberian Peninsula)
The paper presents an extensive fish sampling dataset spanning a long-term period from 2010 to 2019. The data were collected in Lenta Marina, an upstream area in the Minho Estuary of the NW Iberian Peninsula, which belongs to a LTSER (Long-Term Socio-Ecological Research) platform. To capture fish, fyke nets were utilised as the sampling method and deployed at Lenta Marina. This dataset offers valuable insights into the abundance of each collected taxa recorded over time.The dataset reports a comprehensive compilation of data on the abundance of fish species observed in the area during the sampling period (includes zeroes when a given taxonomic entity was absent in a given sampling event). It provides a detailed record of the abundances of the fish community through time in a frequent sampling regime (on average, sampling was done every 6 days). The dataset shows that the amount of fish from invasive taxa exceeds the count of fish from native taxa in the Minho Estuary.
["Marine and fisheries research", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Checklist of the marine malacofauna of Culuccia Peninsula (NW Sardinia, Italy), with notes on relevant species
Culuccia is a small peninsula of about 3 km2 placed in north-western Sardinia (Italy) at the margin of the Maddalena Archipelago. The marine area surrounding this Peninsula is a Special Area of Conservation, included in the European Natura 2000 Ecological Network of protected areas, but until now, no information on biodiversity of this area is available. In 2021, a research project to study both terrestrial and marine biodiversity of Culuccia has started in order to fill this gap of knowledge.This work provides the first inventory of the marine malacofauna of the coast of Culuccia. Fifteen sites were sampled seasonally for one-year by using different sampling methods and the present study shows the results from approximately 50 scientific SCUBA and free dive surveys, carried out in all main marine habitats of the studied area. In total, 259 species of molluscs were recorded along the coasts of the Culuccia Peninsula (0-25 m depth), belonging to the classes Bivalvia, Gastropoda, Polyplacophora and Scaphopoda. Amongst the four classes recorded, gastropods were the most represented (66.90%; 173 species), followed by bivalves (28.10%; 73 species), polyplacophorans (4.60%; 12 species) and scapophods (0.40%; 1 species). Notes about distribution, conservation status and ecology for some valuable species are provided, together with images of representative species, consisting mainly of in situ photographs. Additionally, the present investigation recorded the presence of four alien species, whose Mediterranean distribution was extended to north-western Sardinia.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

DNA barcoding aids in generating a preliminary checklist of the lichens and allied fungi of Calvert Island, British Columbia: Results from the 2018 Hakai Terrestrial BioBlitz
Bioblitzes are a tool for the rapid appraisal of biodiversity and are particularly useful in remote and understudied regions and for understudied taxa. Lichens are an example of an often overlooked group, despite being widespread in virtually all terrestrial ecosystems and having many important ecological functions.We report the lichens and allied fungi collected during the 2018 terrestrial bioblitz conducted on Calvert Island on the Central Coast of British Columbia, Canada. We identified 449 specimens belonging to 189 species in 85 genera, increasing the total number of species known from Calvert Island to 194, and generated Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) sequences for 215 specimens from 121 species. Bryoria furcellata, Chaenothecopsis lecanactidis and C. nigripunctata were collected for the first time in British Columbia. We also found Pseudocyphellaria rainierensis, which is listed as Special Concern on the federal Species at Risk Act, and other rarely reported species in British Columbia including Opegrapha sphaerophoricola, Protomicarea limosa, Raesaenenia huuskonenii and Sarea difformis. We demonstrate that DNA barcoding improves the scope and accuracy of expert-led bioblitzes by facilitating the detection of cryptic species and allowing for consistent identification of chemically and morphologically overlapping taxa. Despite the spatial and temporal limitations of our study, the results highlight the value of intact forest ecosystems on the Central Coast of British Columbia for lichen biodiversity, education and conservation.
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Geometric morphometric methods for identification of oyster species based on morphology
Both genetic and environmental factors affect the morphology of oysters. Molecular identification is currently the primary means of species identification, but it is inconvenient and costly. In this research, we evaluated the effectiveness of geometric morphometric (GM) techniques in distinguishing between two oyster species, Crassostrea gigas and C. ariakensis. We used traditional morphometric and GM methods, including principal component analysis (PCA), thin-plate spline analysis (TPS) and canonical variable analysis (CVA), to identify specific features that distinguish the two species. We found that differences in shape can be visualised using GM methods. The Procrustes analysis revealed significant differences in shell morphology between C. gigas and C. ariakensis. The shells of C. ariakensis are more prominent at the widest point and are more scattered and have a greater variety of shapes. The shells of C. gigas are more oval in shape. PCA results indicated that PC1 explained 45.22%, PC2 explained 22.09% and PC3 explained 10.98% of the variation between the two species, which suggests that the main morphological differences are concentrated in these three principal components. Combining the TPS analysis function plots showed that the shell shape of C. ariakensis is mainly elongated and spindle-shaped, whereas the shell shape of C. gigas is more oval. The CVA results showed that the classification rate for the two species reached 100% which means that C. ariakensis and C. gigas have distinct differences in shell morphology and can be completely separated, based on morphological characteristics. Through these methods, a more comprehensive understanding of the morphological characteristics of different oyster populations can be obtained, providing a reference for oyster classification and identification.
["traditional morphometrics"]
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Paleontology and Evolutionary Biology"]

Diversity of an Odonata assemblage from a tropical dry forest in San Buenaventura, Jalisco, Mexico (Insecta, Odonata)
The patterns of richness, diversity, and abundance of an odonate assemblage from San Buenaventura, Jalisco are presented here. A total of 1087 specimens from seven families, 35 genera and 66 species were obtained through monthly samplings of five days each during a period of one year. Libellulidae was the most diverse family (28 species), followed by Coenagrionidae (21), Gomphidae (7), Aeshnidae (6), Calopterygidae (2), Lestidae (1) and Platystictidae (1). Argia was the most speciose genus. The highest species richness and Shannon diversity were found during August and September, whereas the highest abundance was observed in June and the highest Simpson diversity was recorded in September — all of which were associated with the rainy season. The highest values of phylogenetic diversity were found from June to October. The different diversity facets of this assemblage were positively correlated with precipitation and minimum temperature, whereas maximum temperature showed no influence. In addition, we found that this odonate diversity was higher than most Mexican localities with tropical dry forest (TDF) studied.We continue our efforts to describe the patterns of richness, diversity and abundance of some insect groups associated with the tropical dry forest ecosystem in Mexico, following a latitudinal gradient of the distribution of this ecosystem in the country. Our emphasis here was to evaluate the spatial and temporal patterns of richness and diversity of an Odonata assemblage from Jalisco, Mexico.
["richness"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Monitoring arthropods under the scope of LIFE-SNAILS project: I - Santa Maria Island baseline data with implementation of the Index of Biotic Integrity
The database we introduce is a pivotal component of the LIFE SNAILS project (Support and Naturalisation in Areas of Importance for Land Snails). This initiative is dedicated to safeguarding three endangered species of terrestrial molluscs, specifically, two snails (Oxychilus agostinhoi Martins 1981 and Leptaxis minor Backhuys, 1975) and a semi-slug (Plutonia angulosa (Morelet, 1860)), all of which are single island endemics from Santa Maria Island and face significant threats towards their populations.In this study, we established a comprehensive database derived from a long-term arthropod monitoring campaign utilising SLAM (Sea, Land, Air, Malaise) traps. Although molluscs were not the primary focus, our findings serve as a credible proxy for evaluating the overall habitat quality for endemic invertebrates, with arthropods serving as principal indicators. From September to December of 2022, a total of 11 SLAM traps were installed and monitored monthly in eleven sites of mixed forests of Santa Maria Island.Based on the 33 available samples (11 sites x 3 sampling periods), we recorded a total of 118 taxa of arthropods (of which 94 were identified at species or subspecies level), belonging to three classes, 14 orders and 62 families. From the 94 identified taxa, a total of 21 species were endemic, 31 native non-endemic, 32 introduced and 10 indeterminate. We also provide additional information of the habitat quality (Index of Biotic Integrity), including general habitat and dominant species composition.We registered three new records to the Island, the native bug Piezodorus lituratus (Fabricius, 1794) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae), the Azorean endemic beetle Phloeosinus gillerforsi Bright, 1987 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) and the exotic ant Hypoponera punctatissima (Roger, 1859) (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) and one new record for the Azores Archipelago, the native beetle Cephennium validum Assing & Meybohm, 2021 (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae).This publication not only contributes to the conservation of highly threatened endemic molluscs, through an assessment of habitat quality, based on arthropod communities and habitat description (e.g. native or exotic vegetation), but also provides an updated inventory of arthropods from Santa Maria Island.
["arthropods"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

The Buprestidae (Coleoptera, Buprestoidea) of the Tuscan Archipelago (Italy)
Buprestidae is a group of beetles of important conservation and phytosanitary value that is poorly studied in the Tuscan Archipelago and the limited faunistic knowledge available refers to a few scant historical records.The present contribution increments the species documented in the Archipelago from 27 to 51, providing more than 300 georeferenced occurrence records, derived from both direct field research and citizen science via iNaturalist. Of particular importance is the discovery of Eurythyrea quercus on Isola d'Elba, an uncommon and localised species currently critically endangered.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

First record of Caligus dussumieri Rangnekar, 1957 (Copepoda, Siphonostomatoida, Caligidae) from Malaysia, with notes on caligids found from Malaysia and on host-specificity of caligids on lutjanid fishes
In total, 14 species of Caligus have been reported from Malaysia. Amongst them, four species are reported from lutjanid fishes.Caligus dussumieri Rangnekar, 1957 is reported from Malabar snapper, Lutjanus malabaricus, purchased from a local wet market in Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia. This is the first record of this species in Malaysia and it is only the second species assigned to the bonito-group of the genus Caligus to be reported from Malaysia. A key to species of the bonito-group is presented herein. The list of caligids infecting lutjanid fishes and the geographical distributions plus the known hosts of members of the bonito-group of Caligus are discussed.
["Caligidae"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Exploring the hidden riches: Recent remarkable faunistic records and range extensions in the bee fauna of Italy (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Anthophila)
The area sourrounding the Mediterranean basin is recognised as a major biodiversity hotspot for bees, and Italy is amongst the European countries with the highest bee species richness. Detailed knowledge of bee distribution is crucial for understanding bee biology and designing tailored conservation strategies, but is still insufficient in southern European countries, especially in Italy.We report recent finds of 48 bee species that yield significant novelties for the Italian bee fauna. Eight species, namely Andrena confinis Stöckhert, Anthidiellum breviusculum Pérez, Coelioxys alatus Foerster, Lasioglossum algericolellum Strand, Megachile lapponica Thomson, Megachile opacifrons Pérez, Megachile semicircularis auct. nec Zanden and Trachusa integra Eversmann are reported as new for Italy. In addition, Andrena binominata Smith, Andrena compta Lepeletier, Colletes acutus Pérez, Lasioglossum strictifrons Vachal, Rhodanthidium siculum Spinola and Rhodanthidium sticticum Fabricius are newly recorded from mainland Italy, Osmia heteracantha Pérez from Sardegna and Nomada flavopicta Kirby from Sicilia. We also report significant range extensions for other bee species and recent records of species that had long gone unrecorded in Italy. The combination of morphology and DNA barcoding provided reliable identifications even for the most challenging specimens. As several of our records come from areas neglected by bee experts in the past, this study stands out as a key indicator of a bee faunistic richness still awaiting discovery and hopefully it will stimulate the interest of taxonomists and stakeholders in pursuing bee research in Italy in the near future.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

The land snail fauna of Batu Kudik, isolated limestone outcrop near Simunjan, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
The present study provides a checklist of land snails collected from Batu Kudik, a small and isolated limestone outcrop in Simunjan, Sarawak. A total of 24 species of land snails, representing 18 genera and 14 families were recorded, including one newly-described subspecies. The most species-rich of the families in Batu Kudik are Diplommatinidae (17%) and Chronidae (17%) with four recorded species from each of the families. Based on our analysis, Plectostoma wallacei kudikense subsp. nov., Opisthostoma javanica and Georissa pyrrhoderma were identified as the most abundant land snails at this isolated outcrop, whereas Diplommatina onyx and Everettia minuta were recorded as the least abundant. All of the land snails at Batu Kudik were exclusively found sheltered between limestone boulders, underscoring the critical role of this outcrop as their refuge for survival. Consequently, conserving this biodiversity-rich limestone area becomes paramount to prevent the local extinction of these land snail species and possibly other organisms that depend on the unique attributes of the limestone for their survival. We also provide detailed descriptions of Plectostoma wallacei kudikense, a new subspecies of the genus Plectostoma which is endemic to Batu Kudik.A description of a new subspecies Plectostoma wallacei kudikense subsp. nov.
["land snails"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Molossus melini Montani et al. 2021 (Chiroptera, Molossidae) in Brazil: new insights for distribuition, morphology and genetics
The species M. melini has been observed in both the Pampa and Spinal ecoregions of Argentina. Researchers have underscored that distinguishing M. melini from other species within the same genus relies primarily on craniometric and molecular analyses. Morphological measurements alone do not offer a clear differentiation between M. melini and other members of this genus.This study aims to document the presence of M. melini within the Brazilian ecoregion, focusing on its morphological, morphometric and genetic characteristics. By undertaking a comprehensive examination, we seek to contribute valuable insights into the distribution and differentiation of M. melini in this region.Molossus melini specimens exhibited a forearm length ranging from 39.9 to 40.08 mm. The average intraspecific divergence was 1.2%, with specimens from the Argentine Pampas clustering in the same clade with a 98% bootstrap support and a posterior probability of: Regarding dorsal colouration, the specimens displayed fur with two bands—a Snow White base colour and apex colours ranging from Olive Brown, Broccoli Brown, Wood Brown to Yellowish-Brown. This marks the first record of M. melini in Brazil, expanding its distribution 1,300 km northeastwards into the Curitiba, Paraná, Atlantic Forest Ecoregion. The findings contribute valuable information on the distribution, morphology, morphometrics and genetics of this species.
["Curitiba"]

New genus of the family Laophontidae T. Scott, 1905 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida) from Hupo on the eastern coast of Korea
The Laophontidae is a very large and diverse family containing more than 320 species and 74 genera in the Harpacticoida. According to records published until recently, 25 species of 12 genera of Laophontidae were reported to appear in Korean waters. The most common laophontid species in Korean waters is Paralaophonte congenera (Sars, 1908). During research on the meiobenthic community in the subtidal zone near the Korean coast in the East Sea, we found an undescribed genus of the Laophontidae family. The character traits of this undescribed specimen of the Laophontidae family do not match any existing genus.Herein, a new genus of the interstitial marine benthic copepods family Laophontidae T. Scott, 1905 is described from the subtidal zone near Hupo Harbour on the east coast of Korea. This genus was named Strictlaophonte gen. nov. and has been classified into the family Laophontidae. This was based on the presence of seven segmented female antennules, reduced antennary exopod, first endopodal segments having no inner setae from the second leg to the fourth leg and P5 with a distinct exopod that is not fused at the basis. The distinguishing features of Strictlaophonte gen. nov. are P5 exopod having only four setae, the P1 exopod having two segments and the antenna exopod having four setae. In particular, this new genus has unique characteristics in that the caudal rami are very tightly attached to each other.
["Harpacticoid copepods"]

Host relationships and biological notes of Cassidinae beetles (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) in Qiannan Prefecture, Guizhou, China
The faunal composition, host relationships and biological information of the subfamily Cassidinae (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) remain poorly known in many Chinese regions. Based on the seven-year field survey, faunal composition and host associations of Cassidinae beetles were systematically compiled for Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province. In particular, through direct field observations, detailed biological information, such as life history and behavioural features and host plants were first recorded for 56 species of Cassidinae beetles. We have tripled the number of Cassidinae species in Qiannan. Sixty-nine species of Cassidinae beetles belonging to 17 genera and eight tribes were identified, of which 38 species are newly recorded in Guizhou and 56 are newly recorded in Qiannan. The tribes Leptispini and Notosacanthini were newly recorded in Guizhou. The genera Thlaspidosoma Spaeth, Downesia Baly, Klitispa Uhmann, Platypria Guérin-Méneville, Leptispa Baly and Notosacantha Chevrolat were recorded in Guizhou for the first time. A total of 61 species, 37 genera and 17 families of host plants were collected. Lardizabalaceae and Araliaceae were new host plant families for Cassidinae worldwide. Quantitative food web analysis indicated that Cassidinae species in Qiannan mainly feed on Poaceae, Rosaceae, Convolvulaceae and Lamiaceae. Callispini and Leptispini only feed on monocots, Aspidimorphini, Basiprionotini, Cassidini and Notosacanthini only feed on dicots, while Hispini feed on both monocots and dicots. The feeding patterns and corresponding damage marks of Cassidinae were quite diverse. In addition, the pupal mine-making behaviour of Dactylispa excisa (Kraatz, 1879), D. similis Chen et T’an, 1985 and D. uhmanni Gressitt, 1950 are worth further study. Although preliminary, our field survey is an essential step in understanding Cassidinae behaviour and Cassidinae-plant interactions.
["faunal composition"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

The MOVECLIM – AZORES project: Bryophytes from Pico Island along an elevation gradient
In September 2012, a comprehensive survey of Pico Island was conducted along an elevational transect, starting at Manhenha (10 m a.s.l.) and culminating at the Pico Mountain caldera (2200 m a.s.l.). The primary objective was to systematically inventory the bryophytes inhabiting the best-preserved areas of native vegetation environments. Twelve sites were selected, each spaced at 200 m elevation intervals. Within each site, two 10 m x 10 m plots were established in close proximity (10-15 m apart). Within these plots, three 2 m x 2 m quadrats were randomly selected and sampled for bryophytes using microplots measuring 10 cm x 5 cm, which were then collected into paper bags. Six substrates were surveyed in each quadrat: rock, soil, humus, organic matter, tree bark and leaves/fronds. Three replicates were obtained from all substrates available and colonised by bryophytes, resulting in a maximum of 18 microplots per quadrat, 54 microplots per plot, 108 microplots per site, and a total of 1296 microplots across the 12 sites on Pico Island.Two-thirds of the maximum expected number of microplots (n = 878; 67.75%) were successfully collected, yielding a total of 4896 specimens. The vast majority (n = 4869) were identified at the species/subspecies level. The study identified a total of 70 moss and 71 liverwort species or subspecies. Elevation levels between 600-1000 m a.s.l., particularly in the native forest plots, exhibited both a higher number of microplots and greater species richness. This research significantly enhanced our understanding of Azorean bryophyte diversity and distribution, contributing valuable insights at both local and regional scales. Notably, two new taxa for the Azores were documented during the MOVECLIM study, namely the pleurocarpous mosses Antitrichia curtipendula and Isothecium interludens.

Re-description of Parasphaerosyllis indica Monro, 1937 (Annelida, Syllidae), with the establishment of a new species from western Mexico
Parasphaerosyllis Monro, 1937 is a syllid genus, currently composed of four species: P. indica Monro, 1937 from the Arabian Sea, P. uschakovi (Chlebovitsch, 1959) from the Kurile Islands, P. ezoensis Imajima & Hartman, 1964 from Japan and P. malimalii Capa, San Martín & López, 2001 from the Pacific coast of Panama. The distribution of P. indica is circum-tropical to temperate waters, but the presence of species complexes has been suggested. In order to clarify the distribution of P. indica in many areas of the world, a re-description, based on examination of the type material, is required as a first step to a better understanding of its diagnostic features.Parasphaerosyllis indica is re-described, based on holotype examination, a new species is established from the Gulf of California and Parasphaerosyllis malimalii is reported for the first time since its description in 2001. Parasphaerosyllis irregulata sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by the following features: 1) Palps are free at their base; 2) Two types of dorsal cirri are present: spherical to bulbous and moniliform cirri; 3) Both types of cirri are distributed irregularly. A spherical/bulbous and moniliform cirrus may appear together within the same segment (asymmetrical segment) or only a spherical/bulbous cirrus may appear in several consecutive segments (not alternating as occurs in congeners); 4) The spherical/bulbous cirri may have distal knobs with 1–3 terminal articles; and 5) Bidentate falcigers with short, sub-triangular blades with a proximal tooth slightly larger that the distal one. A taxonomic key to species of Parasphaerosyllis species is included.

A checklist of Nigerian ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae): a review, new records and exotic species
Ants are one of the most ubiquitous, widespread and abundant groups of animals on Earth. They are eusocial and are well noted for their important ecosystem services such as nutrient recycling, seed dispersal, engaging in mutualistic associations with other organisms, as well as serving as predators and scavengers. Although Africa has been recognised as a global hotspot for ant diversity, African ant genera are not as well-known when compared with other regions. The last checklist of Nigerian ants was compiled and published in the 1970s. To contribute to new knowledge on West African ant genera and Nigeria in particular, we conducted a review of the ant species of Nigeria using 132 scientific publications mostly compiled in the database www.antmaps.org, along with a survey of ant species of Lagos and Oyo States in Nigeria which was conducted between 2018 and 2020. The study aimed to ascertain the diversity of Nigerian ant genera, as well as to confirm the presence of previously recorded species and add new species to the current checklist of Nigerian ants, based on the 1970 survey.As many as 106 species were recorded from the survey in the current study, of which 28 are new to Nigeria and additional 28 are identified to the morphospecies level. In total, 317 species from 10 subfamilies and 64 genera are now recorded from Nigeria, including 11 invasive ants, of which six are new to Nigeria. The following eleven species that were included in the 1970 checklist were excluded from the current list, mostly due to previous misidentifications: Aenictus rotundatus Mayr, 1901; Anochetus jonesi Arnold, 1926; Camponotus barbarossa micipsa Wheeler, 1992; Camponotus foraminosus dorsalis Santschi, 1926; Camponotus rufoglaucus (Jerdon, 1851); Cardiocondyla zoserka Bolton, 1982; Messor barbarus (Linnaeus, 1767); Odontomachus haematodus (Linnaeus, 1758); Technomyrmex albipes (Smith, 1861); Tetramorium decem Forel, 1913 and Tetraponera penzigi (Mayr, 1907).

Does urbanisation have an impact on the trophic ecology of the Algerian hedgehog Atelerix algirus in northern Algeria?
The Algerian hedgehog, which is an endemic Mediterranean species, is a nocturnal and terrestrial insectivorous mammal. Atelerix algirus’ populations are widespread in various habitats comprising human agglomeration, such as rural, suburban or natural ecosystems. However, the impact of the habitat’s characteristics on its diet remains unknown in Algeria. To contribute to a better understanding of this question, we have analysed 158 faeces samples of the Algerian hedgehog in three different areas: urban, suburban and natural area.The findings show that the Algerian hedgehog is an opportunistic species. It feeds on several classes of Arthropoda, but the harvester ant Messor barbarus dominates largely its menu with AR = 74.81% in the diverse habitats. Furthermore, the HAC and FCA analyses confirm the positive impact of the level of urbanisation and the anthropogenic activity on the Algerian hedgehog prey richness in the north of Algeria (79 prey species and 5574 individuals ingested in the urban area, compared to 64 prey species and 3188 individuals ingested in the natural zone).
["hedgehog"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Updated distributional checklist of the genus Pytho Latreille, 1796 of the Palearctic realm with the first records of P. abieticola J. R. Sahlberg, 1875 from Lithuania and the family Pythidae (Coleoptera) from Moldova and Serbia
Pytho Latreille, 1796 is a small genus of the dead log bark beetles (Coleoptera, Pythidae). All species are distributed in the Holarctic, being recognised as typically boreal taxa, but knowledge about the geographical ranges of particular taxa is far from complete.The updated distributional checklist of the genus Pytho of the Palearctic is given, based on literature and new records, including citizen-scientific data. Pytho depressus and the family Pythidae are recorded for the first time from the Republic of Moldova (Municipality of Chișinău) and the Republic of Serbia (Municipality of Voždovac) and P. abieticola is recorded for the first time from Lithuania (Alytus District Municipality, Ignalina District Municipality and Kaišiadorys District Municipality).
["Pythidae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Modicella guangxiensis (Mortierellomycota, Mortierellaceae), a new species from south-western karst areas of China
Modicella Kanouse (1936) is the only genus of Mortierellaceae known to produce macroscopic fruiting bodies in the form of small, whitish, round sporocarps. Specimens which belong to Modicella were collected during our field investigations in tropical karst areas of China. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis, a new species is introduced.Modicella guangxiensis is described as a new species from tropical karst areas of China. The main distinguishing characteristics of M. guangxiensis are the number of sporangiospores per sporangium (11–18), the size of sporangiospores (14–34 × 12–27.5 μm) and the surface of some hyphae with hemispherical tuber. The phylogenetic analyses, based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and the large subunit (LSU) regions of rDNA sequences using Bayesian (BA) and Maximum Likelihood (ML) methods showed that the new taxon is closely related to M. reniformis.
["new taxon"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

A new species of the genus Xizangiana Sherwood, Li & Zhang, 2022 (Araneae, Gnaphosidae) from Xizang, China
The spider genus Xizangiana Sherwood, Li & Zhang, 2022, comprises nine species that inhabit northern India and south-western China. Six of these species have been documented in the Xizang Autonomous Region of China.A new species, Xizangiana plankton sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Xizang Autonomous Region, China.
["ground spider"]

Inocellia (Amurinocellia) calida (Raphidioptera, Inocelliidae) was first observed as a predator of Monochamus saltuarius (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) in China, the vector of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Aphelenchida, Aphelenchoididae)
Monochamus saltuarius Gebler (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) serves as the primary carrier of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner & Buhrer) (Aphelenchida, Aphelenchoididae) in the middle-temperate zone of China. Pine wilt disease caused by B. xylophilus leads to serious losses to pine forestry around the world. It is necessary to study the biological control of M. saltuarius to effectively prevent the further spread of B. xylophilus. To explore the insect resources that act as natural enemies of M. saltuarius, investigations were conducted on natural enemy insects by splitting Pinus koraiensis Siebold & Zucc (Pinales, Pinaceae) damaged by M. saltuarius and dissecting their trunks in Yingpan Village, Fushun County, Fushun City, Liaoning Province, China, in 2023. A larva of Inocellia (Amurinocellia) calida (H. Aspöck & U. Aspöck) (Raphidioptera, Inocelliidae) was discovered in the trunk of an infested P. koraiensis. Additionally, the feeding habits of I. calida were preliminarily examined under indoor conditions and a description of its morphological characteristics was provided. When placed in an indoor environment, the I. calida larva began pupating after a period of 21 days, during which time it consumed and attacked a total of 23 M. saltuarius larvae. Ultimately, after a pupal period of ten days, the I. calida larva emerged successfully as an adult. This discovery marks the first recorded presence of I. calida in Liaoning Province and the first documentation of I. calida in China, serving as a natural predatory enemy of M. saltuarius.
["Inocellia (Amurinocellia) calida"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Soil macrofauna communities in Brazilian land-use systems
Soil animal communities include more than 40 higher-order taxa, representing over 23% of all described species. These animals have a wide range of feeding sources and contribute to several important soil functions and ecosystem services. Although many studies have assessed macroinvertebrate communities in Brazil, few of them have been published in journals and even fewer have made the data openly available for consultation and further use. As part of ongoing efforts to synthesise the global soil macrofauna communities and to increase the amount of openly-accessible data in GBIF and other repositories related to soil biodiversity, the present paper provides links to 29 soil macroinvertebrate datasets covering 42 soil fauna taxa, collected in various land-use systems in Brazil. A total of 83,085 georeferenced occurrences of these taxa are presented, based on quantitative estimates performed using a standardised sampling method commonly adopted worldwide to collect soil macrofauna populations, i.e. the TSBF (Tropical Soil Biology and Fertility Programme) protocol. This consists of digging soil monoliths of 25 x 25 cm area, with handsorting of the macroinvertebrates visible to the naked eye from the surface litter and from within the soil, typically in the upper 0-20 cm layer (but sometimes shallower, i.e. top 0-10 cm or deeper to 0-40 cm, depending on the site). The land-use systems included anthropogenic sites managed with agricultural systems (e.g. pastures, annual and perennial crops, agroforestry), as well as planted forests and native vegetation located mostly in the southern Brazilian State of Paraná (96 sites), with a few additional sites in the neighbouring states of São Paulo (21 sites) and Santa Catarina (five sites). Important metadata on soil properties, particularly soil chemical parameters (mainly pH, C, P, Ca, K, Mg, Al contents, exchangeable acidity, Cation Exchange Capacity, Base Saturation and, infrequently, total N), particle size distribution (mainly % sand, silt and clay) and, infrequently, soil moisture and bulk density, as well as on human management practices (land use and vegetation cover) are provided. These data will be particularly useful for those interested in estimating land-use change impacts on soil biodiversity and its implications for below-ground foodwebs, ecosystem functioning and ecosystem service delivery.Quantitative estimates are provided for 42 soil animal taxa, for two biodiversity hotspots: the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and Cerrado biomes. Data are provided at the individual monolith level, representing sampling events ranging from February 2001 up to September 2016 in 122 sampling sites and over 1800 samples, for a total of 83,085 ocurrences.
["soil macroinvertebrates"]
["Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

First records of non-native species Callitriche deflexa (Plantaginaceae), which was previously misidentified as C. terrestris in Japan
The cosmopolitan genus Callitriche (Plantaginaceae) is a clade of small herbaceous plants that encompasses terrestrial and aquatic species. In Japan, six Callitriche species have been identified: four native and two naturalised species. Callitriche terrestris, a naturalised terrestrial species, was first reported in 1984 in Kanagawa Prefecture and it is thriving today.We report the presence of a new naturalised terrestrial species, Callitriche deflexa, which has been previously misidentified as C. terrestris because of its similar morphology. Callitriche deflexa can be distinguished from C. terrestris through genetic differences and distinct morphological traits, such as longer pedicels. Re-examination of herbarium specimens in the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History confirmed that most of the specimens labelled as C. terrestris, including voucher specimens from the original report, were indeed C. terrestris, but a few were C. deflexa. We also noted that the plants referred to as “C. terrestris” in our previous developmental studies should be corrected to C. deflexa.
["Callitriche deflexa"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Description of a new Asian Leaf Litter Toad of the genus Leptobrachella Smith, 1925 (Anura, Megophryidae) from southern Guizhou Province, China
The Asian leaf litter toads of the genus Leptobrachella Smith, 1925 (Anura, Megophryidae) inhabit the forest floor and rocky streams in hilly evergreen forests and are widely distributed from southern China, west to north-eastern India and Myanmar, through mainland Indochina to Peninsular Malaysia and the Island of Borneo.A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella from Guizhou Province, China is described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI genes and nuclear RAG1 gene sequences indicated that the new species is genetically divergent from its congeners. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) body of medium size in males (SVL 31.9 – 32.9 mm); (2) distinct black spots present on flanks; (3) toes rudimentarily webbed, with wide lateral fringes; (4) skin on dorsum shagreened with fine tiny granules and short ridges; (5) heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; (6) tibia-tarsal articulation reaching interior corner of the eye.A new species of the Asian leaf litter toad genus Leptobrachella from Guizhou Province, China is described. Molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on mitochondrial 16S rRNA and COI genes and nuclear RAG1 gene sequences indicated that the new species is genetically divergent from its congeners. The new species could be distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) body of medium size in males (SVL 31.9 – 32.9 mm); (2) distinct black spots present on flanks; (3) toes rudimentarily webbed, with wide lateral fringes; (4) skin on dorsum shagreened with fine tiny granules and short ridges; (5) heels overlapped when thighs are positioned at right angles to the body; (6) tibia-tarsal articulation reaching interior corner of the eye.

Review of German Spilomicrus Westwood (Hymenoptera, Diapriidae, Spilomicrini)
This study provides an integrative taxonomy-based review for the genus Spilomicrus Westwood in Germany using DNA barcoding and classic morphology.Spilomicrus simplex Tomsik, 1947 is placed in synonymy with S. antennatus Jurine, 1807; Spilomicrus thomsoni Kieffer, 1911 is removed from synonymy with S. hemipterus Marshall, 1868. A lectotype is designated for Spilomicrus nigripes Thomson, 1858. Newly recorded for Germany are the following species: S. thomsoni Kieffer, 1911, S. crassiclavis Marshall, 1868, S. lusitanicus Kieffer, 1910 and S. diversus Chemyreva, 2021. Three species, Spilomicrus brevimalaris sp. nov., S. flavecorpus sp. nov. and S. politus sp. nov. are described as new to science. The 23 DNA-barcodes with species identification present a substantial addition over the previous German checklist. This study aims to update the number of nationwide known Spilomicrus species from fifteen to twenty. Furthermore, a new key to identify all European Spilomicrus species is provided.
["checklist"]

A new distribution record, first host plant record and DNA barcoding of the Neotropical micromoth Astrotischeria karsholti Puplesis & Diškus (Lepidoptera, Tischeriidae)
Astrotischeria Puplesis & Diškus, 2003 (Lepidoptera, Tischeriidae) is a New World genus of micromoths whose larvae are leaf miners associated mainly with plants of the family Asteraceae. The original description of the type species Astrotischeria karsholti Puplesis & Diškus, 2003 was based on adults from central Peru. No additional distribution records, host plants or DNA barcodes have been documented for this species.Astrotischeria karsholti is reported for the first time from Chile, based on adults obtained from leaf mines of Ambrosia cumanensis Kunth (Asteraceae) collected in the transverse valleys of the Atacama Desert. This discovery expands the distribution range of this micromoth nearly 900 km to the southeast and represents its first host plant record. Divergence between DNA barcodes of A. karsholti and the nearest congeneric was 6% (K2P). A Maximum Likelihood analysis, based on DNA barcodes, raises questions about the monophyly of Astrotischeria.
["Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Size spectra of the edaphic fauna of typical Argiudol soils of the Rolling Pampa Region, Argentina
Soil-dwelling organisms populate the spaces—referred to as interstices—between the litter on the soil surface and the pores in the soil's organo-mineral matrix. These organisms have pivotal roles in soil ecosystem functions, such as the breakdown and decomposition of organic matter, the dispersal of bacterial and fungal spores and biological habitat transformation. These functions, in turn, contribute to broader ecosystem services like carbon and nutrient cycling, soil organic matter regulation and both chemical and physical soil fertility.This study provides morphological data pertaining to a range of soil organism sizes, specifically in Argiudol soils subjected to varying levels of agricultural activity in the Rolling Pampas Region, one of the world's most extensive and fertile plains.The primary focus is on soil microarthropods—namely, Acari (mites) and Collembola (springtails)—with a body width of less than 2 mm. These organisms constitute the majority of life in the intricate soil pore network. Additionally, the study documents species of earthworms (Oligochaeta, Crassiclitelata), recognised as ecosystem engineers for their ability to create physical channels in the soil matrix and to distribute organic matter. Moreover, the study includes measurements of morphological traits of soil-dwelling "macrofauna" (organisms with a body width greater than 2 mm), which are also implicated in various soil ecosystem functions. These include population regulation by apex predators, organic matter decomposition, biogenic structure formation, nutrient mobilisation and herbivory.In this paper, we report both the geographical locations and individual measurements of key morphological traits for over 7,000 specimens, covering a range of soil-dwelling organisms. These include springtails (Entognatha, Collembola), mites (Arachnida, Acari), earthworms (Oligochaeta, Crassiclitellata) and additional soil macrofauna. All specimens were collected from typical Argiudol soils located in three distinct agricultural systems characterised by varying levels of land-use intensity. To our knowledge, no other dataset exists providing this information for the Argentinian Pampas.
["Soil fauna"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics"]

Review of the genus Liocrobyla (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Ornixolinae) from Korea, with description of one newly-recorded species
Liocrobyla Meyrick, 1916 is a relatively small genus within the family Gracillariidae, consisting of nine species worldwide, including five species in Korea.In this study, we recognise five species belonging to the genus Liocrobyla Meyrick, 1916 from Korea. Amongst them, one species, L. indigofera Liu, Wang & Wang, 2018, is reported for the first time in Korea. Figures of adults, male and female genitalia, along with a key to the species of Liocrobyla in Korea, are provided.
["Gracillariidae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Arachnid Fauna (Araneae and Opiliones) from the Castro Verde Special Protection Area, southern Portugal
With the increasing recognition of the significance of arachnid conservation, it is crucial to allocate greater efforts towards implementing targeted monitoring programmes. Despite recent studies, our understanding of arachnid populations in Portugal remains limited. This study serves as the initial inventory of arachnids (Araneae and Opiliones) within the Castro Verde Special Protection Area (SPA) located in Beja, southern Portugal. The surveys were conducted during the spring of 2012 across 80 open grasslands that were grazed by cattle and sheep.A total of 71 species of Araneae and two species of Opiliones have been identified. Notably, three spider species, namely Argenna subnigra, Civizelotes ibericus and Walckenaeria cucullata, are documented for the first time in Portugal. Additionally, two harvestmen species (Dasylobus ibericus and Homalenotus buchneri) and 14 spider species (Cheiracanthium pennatum, Haplodrassus rhodanicus, Marinarozelotes minutus, Tapinocyba algirica, Agraecina lineata, Tibellus macellus, Talavera petrensis, Tetragnatha intermedia, Dipoena umbratilis, Enoplognatha diversa, Neottiura uncinata, Ruborridion musivum, Theridion pinastri and Xysticus grallator) are recorded for the first time in the Beja District. The occurrence of each documented species within the SPA, including family and species details, is presented, underscoring the significance of the Castro Verde SPA for arachnid conservation. These findings contribute novel insights into the biodiversity of the Castro Verde SPA, emphasising the necessity of incorporating this area into arachnid diversity conservation efforts.
["Alentejo"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Simultaneous detections of Olenecamptus bilobus (Fabricius, 1801) (Cerambycidae, Dorcaschematini) in Europe
Europe has a long history of non-native species introductions given its central role in global trade in recent centuries. Currently, approximately two hundred cerambycid species have been found in Europe, as the result of introductions between and within biogeographical regions; still, despite better monitoring and stronger restrictions, the arrivals and spread of non-native Cerambycidae continue.The aim of this contribution is to report and discuss the first European records of the non-native longhorn beetle Olenecamptus bilobus (Fabricius, 1801) on the basis of three specimens recorded almost simultaneously in Spain and Greece, respectively.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

A new cave-dwelling species of Hahnia C. L. Koch, 1841 from Guizhou Province, China (Araneae, Hahniidae)
Hahnia, the most species-diversity genus of the comb-tailed spider family Hahniidae Bertkau, 1878, compromises 102 species distributed worldwide. To date, 24 species have been recorded from China.A new species of the genus Hahnia C. L. Koch, 1841 is described, based on both sexes from Shanyang Cave of Guizhou Province, China and is named H. jiangkou sp. nov. Diagnostic photos of habitus and copulatory organs, as well as a distributional map, are provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Description of the unknown male of Vappolotes tianjiayu Li, Zhao & Li, 2023 (Araneae, Agelenidae, Coelotinae) from China
Vappolotes Zhao & Li, 2019 is one of the troglophilous genera, with five known species. The previous description of V. tianjiayu from China was based solely on female specimens collected from caves in the Wuling Mountains in southern China without any males.The present study, deals with the first record of the male of V. tianjiayu from its type locality: Guluo Cave. The validation of species is based on the morphological characteristics of both male and female.

Clarification of the taxonomic status of Acanthochitona discrepans (Brown, 1827) with new data for the North-East Atlantic Acanthochitona (Polyplacophora, Acanthochitonidae)
The genus Acanthochitona can be easily distinguished from other chitons by having eighteen tufts of bristles on the dorsal side of the densely spiculose girdle. In the North-East Atlantic, five species of this genus have been recognised so far: A. crinita (Pennant, 1777), A. discrepans (Brown, 1827), A. fascicularis (Linnaeus, 1767), A. oblonga Leloup, 1968 and A. pilosa Schmidt-Petersen, Schwabe et Haszprunar, 2015. The nomenclature of A. crinita, A. discrepans and A. fascicularis was confused for a very long time until Kaas (1985) designated type specimens for them and provided a brief key. However, his work lacked detailed descriptions of the three species and some authors doubted that A. discrepans constitutes a separate species. Subsequently, the taxonomic status of A. discrepans has remained unclear.Here, we implemented an integrative approach which combined morphology and molecular evidence to show that Acanthochitona discrepans is, indeed, a valid species and we present re-descriptions for A. crinita, A. discrepans and A. fascicularis.
["Acanthochitona"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Inventory of the urban flora of Budapest (Hungary) highlighting new and noteworthy floristic records
The systematic urban floristic research of Budapest was started in 2018 by the authors with detailed methodology. One scope of the research was to gain knowledge on the plant taxa appearing in Budapest and to compile the inventory of the urban flora of Budapest.We have provided the inventory of the urban flora of Budapest, which includes distribution data for all 973 taxa found in Budapest between May 2018 and May 2023. We also provided new detailed occurrence data for 49 species in Budapest. Seven of them are new to the adventive flora of Hungary (Campanula portenschlagiana Roem. & Schult., Clinopodium nepeta (L.) Kuntze, Chasmanthium latifolium (Michx.) H.O.Yates, Cyrtomium fortunei J.Sm., Linaria maroccana Hook.f., Talinum paniculatum (Jacq.) Gaertn.), three were rediscovered in Hungary (Glebionis coronaria (L.) Cass. ex Spach, Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl., Sisymbrium irio L.) and 18 were recorded for the first time in Budapest. We also provided data for two data-poor (Artemisia scoparia Waldst. & Kit., Polygonum rurivagum Jord. ex Boreau) species and we documented the major expansion of six species.
["adventive"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Citizen science expanding knowledge: a new record of the lizard Heterodactylus imbricatus (Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) in south-eastern Brazil
Through citizen science projects, like Projeto Bromélias, community members contribute valuable data on species diversity, notably those with low detectability like the Heterodactylus imbricatus lizard. A recent observation in the State of Espírito Santo (south-eastern Brazil), amidst coffee and eucalyptus crops, highlights the utility of widespread technology use in tracking and documenting wildlife. Such initiatives are especially beneficial for mapping the distribution of rare, endemic or endangered reptiles. Therefore, we advocate for more citizen science initiatives near protected areas, involving local communities.We provide a new record for the species Heterodactylus imbricatus, a microteiid lizard of low detectability from the Atlantic Forest of south-eastern Brazil. Heterodactylus imbricatus (Rio de Janeiro Teiid) was recorded near the protected area "Reserva Biológica Augusto Ruschi" by a citizen volunteer who contributes herpetofauna records to the Bromelias Project (https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/projeto-bromelias). Heterodactylus imbricatus is a very poorly-known species in the localities where it occurs, probably due to its fossorial habit, genera's restricted occurrence range, habitat specificity and the absence of proper survey methods fitted to fossorial species, such as the utilisation of pitfall traps. By publishing the records of volunteer citizens, we hope that more people will contribute to increase the knowledge of biodiversity in the mountainous region of Espírito Santo State and expand our collective knowledge.
["community engagement"]
["Animal and Plant Science Education", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

Records of the non‐native alga Acanthophora spicifera (Rhodophyta) and their colonial epibionts in La Paz Bay, Gulf of California
Acanthophora spicifera, a red alga considered an alien species, was discovered for the first time on the Pacific coast of Mexico in 2006 from a locality inside La Paz Bay, Gulf of California. Since then, more records have shown its presence, 17 localities having been added up to 2015. A two-year field study (2020-2022) visiting 31 sites along the coast of La Paz Bay, complemented with data from literature and citizen science, resulted in a database of 709 entries that spans the data from 2004 to 2023. These data showed a distribution that goes from Punta Coyote, close to Boca Grande, the northern entrance to the Bay to Playa Tecolote in the south, more than 100 km of coastline, including Espiritu Santo Archipelago, an area considered a natural reserve since 2007. Anthropogenic activity and environmental variables did not present statistical differences that explain A. spicifera spreading. It represents a naturalised alien species without evidence of a negative impact. Still, it soon could acquire the status of invasive species together with its epibionts Bryozoa and Hydrozoa detected in this study.
["red algae"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

First report of Diomus guilavoguii Duverger, 1994 (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Diomini) predating on papaya mealybug Paracoccus marginatus from China
Diomus guilavoguii Duverger, 1994, an adventive species, is recorded from Guangzhou (Guangdong Province), China for the first time. Larvae of D. guilavoguii were collected in association with an invasive mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus Williams & Granara de Willink, 1992, infesting papayas, cassava and several ornamental plants. However, little has been known about the biology of D. guilavoguii, especially the morphology of their larvae since their original descriptions.Diomus guilavoguii Duverger, 1994, native to Conakry, Guinea (Africa), is recorded as established in Guangdong Province for the first time. However, it is unclear when and how D. guilavoguii spread from Africa to Guangzhou, Guangdong Province. Both the adult and larva feed on the invasive mealybug Paracoccus marginatus Williams & Granara de Willink (Hemiptera, Pseudococcidae) that infests papaya and ornamental plants. In this paper, the external morphology and male genitalia of adults are re-described. The detailed descriptions of larva and pupa are also provided for the first time. The status of D. guilavoguii and D. hennessyi Fürsch, 1987 are discussed.
["Coccinellidae"]
["Research on scale insects", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Three new species of Illiesonemoura Baumann, 1975 (Plecoptera, Nemouridae) from China
The genus Illiesonemoura Baumann, 1975 (Plecoptera, Nemouridae) is a small-sized stonefly with slender and curved embranous cerci. Currently, 18 species of the genus are known worldwide, mainly distributed in the Palaearctic and Oriental Regions, with a total of two species known to China.Three new species of Illiesonemoura Baumann, 1975, I. bituberculata Wang & Du, sp. nov., I. motuoensis Du & Ji, sp. nov. and I. weii Du & Ji, sp. nov. are described and illustrated, based on male adults from China. Illiesonemoura bituberculata is characterised by two pairs of tubercles arising posteromedially from tergum 10 and by two rows of spinules outlining the lateral edge of the ventral sclerite of the epiproct. Illiesonemoura motuoensis is characterised by the heart-shaped epiproct with a thin and slightly sclerotised protrusion between the sclerotised bands. Illiesonemoura weii is characterised by a pair of small knobs on tergum 10, outer lobes of paraprocts basally broad, then slender towards apices with a pointed tip and the epiproct with lateral spinules.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

A new species of Liphistius Schiødte, 1849 (Araneae, Liphistiidae) from Yunnan, China
The spider genus Liphistius Schiødte, 1849 contains 69 species, endemic to Indochina and Southeast Asia. Only one species is currently known from the Chinese province of Yunnan: Liphistius nabang Yu, Zhang & Zhang, 2021.A new species, Liphistius liz Lin & Li, sp. nov., is described from Yunnan, China, on the basis of both sexes. Photos and a morphological description of the new species are provided.
["diagnosis"]

First description of the male of Oecobius przewalskyi Hu & Li, 1987 (Araneae, Oecobiidae) from Shigatse City, Tibet, China
With 90 described species, the genus Oecobius Lucas, 1846 is the largest genus of the family Oecobiidae Blackwall, 1862, five of which are known from China. Since Oceobius przewalskyi was described by Hu & Li in 1987, no males of this species have ever been reported.The male of Oceobius przewalskyi is described for the first time, based on the specimens collected in Tibet Autonomous Region. Morphological description and illustrations are given.
["Qinghai-Tibet Plateau"]

New species and records of Pseudochironomini Sæther, 1977 (Diptera, Chironomidae) from the Dominican Republic
Pseudochironomini is a relatively small and poorly-studied tribe of subfamily Chironominae (Diptera, Chironomidae).Pseudochironomus ruthae Andersen & Baranov sp. nov. is described and figured, based on a single male collected in a light trap at Matadero, Dominican Republic. The species can be separated from its congeners by the combination of the following characters: wing without dark bands, dorsocentrals in partly double row and apex of superior volsella rounded. The species is the first Pseudochironomus species to be formally recorded and described from the Caribbean. In addition, a new record of Manoa pahayokeensis Jacobsen & Perry, 2002 from the Dominican Republic is given. One specimen was DNA-barcoded and the barcode is given.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

The diversity of macromycetes in peatlands: nine years of plot-based monitoring and barcoding in the raised bog "Mukhrino", West Siberia
Peatland ecosystems are defined by soils with sufficient under-decomposed organic layer, called peat, formed under anoxic conditions. Peatlands are widespread around the world, with several highly paludified regions, one of which is the Western Siberian Plain. Peatlands store large amounts of carbon and are important in their intact state to counteract climate change, as well as for a variety of other ecosystem functions. From the practical aspect, these ecosystems are used as a source of peat for fuel, peat-based fertilisers and growing media, berries and Sphagnum plantations. Fungi are the key part of the decomposer community of peatlands, playing a critical role in the aerobic decomposition in the upper peat layer. The community of peatland fungi is adapted to decomposition of peat and dead parts of Sphagnum in wet acidic conditions; they form specific mycorrhizal associations with a variety of plants. Thus, the research of fungal diversity of peatlands is important for several reasons: 1) adding knowledge of peatland fungal diversity to local or global biodiversity databases; 2) studying carbon cycling in peatlands; 3) using peat and peatlands for different applications, such as cultivation of Sphagnum with regards to some parasitic species of fungi and 4) peatland restoration and conservation, to mention a few.The community of macromycetes of the raised bog “Mukhrino” in Western Siberia was studied using plot-based monitoring throughout a 9-year observation period. The revealed species diversity is represented by approximately 500 specimens in the Fungarium of Yugra State University collection. Selected specimens were used for barcoding of the ITS region to reveal a total of 95 species from 33 genera and three classes. The barcoding effort confirmed morphological identifications for most specimens and identified a number of cryptic species and several potentially new taxa. Based on regular all-season observations, we describe the phenology of the community sporophore production. The quantitative community structure, based on sporophores, revealed a difference in abundance between species by four orders of magnitude, with rare species representing nearly half of the species list. The inter-annual fruiting abundance varied several times by the total number of sporophores per year. To make the comparisons with global studies, we created an open access database of literature-based observations of fungi in peatlands, based on about 120 published papers (comprising about 1300 species) and compared our species list with this database.As a result, the study created an accurate representation of taxonomic and quantitative structure of the community of macromycetes in raised bogs in the region. The raw data of plot-based counts was published as a sampling-event dataset and the sequenced specimens with the sequence information as an DNA-derived extension dataset in GBIF.
["sphagnum"]
["Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Taxonomic study of the genus Macquartia Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera, Tachinidae) from China
The genus Macquartia Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera, Tachinidae) with 29 known species is a large group of Macquartiini of Tachininae and widely distributed in the Old World and the Nearctic Region.In this study, Chinese specimens of Macquartia were collected and examined, sixteen species are recognised: thirteen previously described, M. brunneisqua Zhang et Li, M. chinensis Zhang et Li, M. flavifemorata Zhang et Li, M. flavipedicel Zhang et Li, M. chalconota (Meigen), M. dispar (Fallén), M. grisea (Fallén), M. macularis Villeneuve, M. nudigena Mesnil, M. picta (Meigen), M. pubiceps (Zetterstedt), M. tenebricosa (Meigen) and M. viridana Robineau-Desvoidy and three species new to science, M. barkamensis sp. n. (Sichuan), M. setifacies sp. n. (Qinghai) and M. sichuanensis sp. n. (Sichuan). An identification key to the sixteen species of Macquartia known from China is included, along with 80 anatomical figures.
["Calyptratae"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Plant and animal studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Past and present: changes in the Odonata fauna of small lowland watercourses
Small lowland watercourses, strongly exposed to anthropogenic activities and climate change, have received negligible odonatological attention. This study provides a revised checklist of three typical lowland small watercourses (Kállai-főfolyás, Konyári-Kálló and Ölyvös) within the Pannonian Lowland and presents the changes in their diversity over the past decades. Results revealed a significant biodiversity loss, with a 31.6% decline in Odonata fauna over the last 53 years. The upper and middle sections degraded the most, where the habitats have dried out or become intermittent. However, a diverse Odonata assemblage (1,277 individuals of 27 species) was observed at the 14 sampling sites of the three watercourses, containing protected and sensitive species (Somatochlora flavomaculata, Orthetrum brunneum, Aeshna isoceles, Libellula fulva). However, the low abundance of larval and exuvial forms (59 individuals of 13 species) suggests that the majority of the observed adults were developed in other watercourses. While recolonisation from nearby habitats is still possible, a parallel degradation of adjecent waterbodies could lead to an irreversible biodiversity loss.
["intermittent"]

New records of non-native Coleoptera in Italy
In the last decades, climate change and globalisation have been exacerbating the introduction of non-native beetles worldwide. Due toits peculiar territory, climate and geographical position in the middle of the Mediterranean Basin, Italy is one of the European countries with the highest number of intercepted, adventive and established non-native beetles, some of which are invasive. In this perspective, producing new faunistic records and continuously updating reliable and easily accessible distributional data is a fundamental step in investigating and potentially preventing further species introduction.The aim of this contribution is to report and discuss new faunistic records of non-native Coleoptera in Italy. For some species, new records enlarge the previously-known distribution (e.g. the ambrosia beetles Anisandrus maiche (Kurentzov, 1941) and Cnestus mutilatus (Blandford, 1894) or the click beetle Monocrepidius posticus (Eschscholtz, 1829)), while for others (e.g. the scarab beetle Archophileurus spinosus Dechambre, 2006), data confirm their establishment and highlight a possible expansion phase. The false powderpost beetles Ptilineurus marmoratus (Reitter, 1877) and the longhorn beetle Xylotrechus chinensis (Chevrolat, 1852) are two new additions to the Italian fauna, while the establishment of the monotomid beetle Monotoma americana Aubé 1837 is confirmed.
["beetles"]

Mollusca collected by Agassiz trawl from the 2016 SO-AntEco (JR15005) expedition to the South Orkney Islands, Antarctica - data
This dataset contributes to the knowledge of macro- and megafaunal Mollusca associated with a range of benthic habitat types in the South Orkney Islands, Antarctica, an exceptionally diverse region of the Southern Ocean. The information presented is derived from Agassiz trawl samples collected on the archipelago’s shelf plateau and slope, within and outside of the South Orkney Islands Southern Shelf Marine Protected Area (SOISS MPA). Sampling was conducted in the framework of the British Antarctic Survey/SCAR “South Orkneys - State of the Antarctic Ecosystem” (SO-AntEco) project aboard RRS James Clark Ross during expedition JR15005 in Austral summer 2016. This dataset is published by the British Antarctic Survey under the licence CC-BY 4.0. We would appreciate it if you could follow the guidelines from the SCAR Data Policy (SCAR 2023) when using the data. If you have any questions regarding this dataset, do not hesitate to contact us via the contact information provided in the metadata or via data-biodiversity-aq@naturalsciences.be. Issues with the dataset can be reported at https://github.com/biodiversity-aq/data-publication/. This dataset is part of the Biodiversity, Evolution and Adaptation Project of the Environmental Change and Evolution Program of the British Antarctic Survey. The cruise report of the expedition is available at report occurrences of Mollusca from individual samples taken with a 2 m-wide Agassiz trawl (AGT) in the framework of the February – March 2016 research expedition JR15005 of RRS James Clark Ross to the SOISS MPA and adjacent shelf and slope areas. Of 78 successful AGT deployments, 44 trawls at depths ranging from 235-2194 m yielded living Mollusca, totalling 2276 individuals, 67 morphospecies and 163 distributional records. One hundred and fifteen empty shells were also collected and recorded in the dataset. Three morphospecies (one Bivalvia and two Gastropoda) were sampled exclusively as empty shells, yielding a total of 70 morphospecies and 2391 specimens represented in the dataset. All specimens were preserved in 96% undenatured ethanol and are stored as vouchers in the collections of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), Cambridge, United Kingdom. The publication of this dataset aims at increasing the knowledge on the biodiversity, abundance and geographical and bathymetric distribution of larger-sized epi- and shallow infaunal Mollusca of the South Orkney Islands.
["benthic biodiversity"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

Integrative taxonomic analyses reveal first country records of Occidozyga shiwandashanensis Chen, Peng, Liu, Huang, Liao & Mo, 2022 and Hylarana latouchii (Boulenger, 1899) (Anura, Dicroglossidae, Ranidae) from Vietnam
Occidozyga shiwandashaensis was recently discovered from Guangxi Province of China. Hylarana latouchii is a widespread species in southern China, including Hong Kong and Taiwan. Both species are expected to be found in the border areas between Vietnam and China; however, no records of these frogs have been documented from Vietnam so far.We record two species of amphibians for the first time from Vietnam, namely Occidozyga shiwandashaensis from Bac Giang Province and Hylarana latouchii from Hai Phong City and Quang Ninh Province in northern Vietnam. Morphologically, the Vietnamese representatives of O. shiwandashanensis resemble the type series from China. The specimens of H. latouchii from Vietnam slightly differ from the type series from China by having a larger size (SVL 48.6–51.7 mm in males, SVL 58.4 mm in the females vs. 36.0–40.0 mm in males, 42.0–53.0 mm in females). Genetic distances between the Vietnamese records and the type specimens of O. shiwandashanensis from China varied from 0 to 1.5% (16S gene). Genetic divergences between the Vietnamese records and H. latouchii from the type locality were 2.0–2.6% (16S gene). In addition, morphological data and natural history notes of the aforementioned species are provided, based on the new records from Vietnam. ­­
["Occidozyga shiwandashanensis"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Antimicrobial Peptides and Activities"]

A new record of the genus Froggattiella Leonardi (Hemiptera, Coccomorpha, Diaspididae) in South Korea
The genus Froggattiella Leonardi, 1900 belongs to the family Diaspididae, and five species of Froggattiella have been recorded worldwide. In this study, Froggattiella penicillata (Green, 1905), which attacks bamboos, is newly recorded in South Korea. The colonies of F. penicillata were collected on a bamboo forest located in Gajwa-dong, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea (35.1599, 128.1029). Description of the adult female, host plant, adult female illustrations, and global distribution of this species are provided.Froggattiella penicillata (Green, 1905) is reported for the first time in South Korea. This species occurrs under sheathing bases of the leaves and is observed attached on the stem and not on the leaf.
["Odonaspidini"]

Dendrocerus lui (Hymenoptera, Ceraphronoidea, Megaspilidae): a new species of Dendrocerus carpenteri species-group from China
One new species of the genus Dendrocerus Ratzeburg, 1852, D. lui Li and Wang sp. nov. is described. A key to Chinese species of males is provided. The 28S sequence was generated to supplement the association of both sexes of the new species.One new species of the genus Dendrocerus Ratzeburg, 1852, D. lui Li and Wang sp. nov. is described.
["hyperparasitoid"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Laevilacunaria (Mollusca, Gastropoda) in the Southern Ocean: A comprehensive occurrence dataset
The present dataset is a compilation of georeferenced occurrences of the littorinid genus Laevilacunaria Powell, 1951 (Mollusca, Gastropoda) in the Southern Ocean. Occurrence data were obtained from field expeditions (Antarctic and sub-Antarctic sampling) between 2015 and 2022, together with a review of published literature including records from 1887 to 2022. Three Laevilacunaria species have been recorded from the Southern Ocean: Laevilacunaria bennetti, L. antarctica and L. pumilio.The present dataset includes 75 occurrences, representing the most exhaustive database of this Antarctic and sub-Antarctic littorinid genus. The publication of this data paper was funded by the Belgian Science Policy Office (BELSPO, contract n°FR/36/AN1/AntaBIS) in the Framework of EU-Lifewatch as a contribution to the SCAR Antarctic biodiversity portal (biodiversity.aq).
["Littorinids"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

A new species of the genus Proutia Tutt (Lepidoptera, Psychidae) from Korea, based on morphology and DNA barcodes
The genus Proutia Tutt, 1899 (Lepidoptera, Psychidae) comprises 14 species found throughout the world. In East Asia, three species, Proutia chinensis Hättenschwiler & Chao, 1990, P. maculatella Saigusa & Sugimoto, 2014 and P. nigra Saigusa & Sugimoto, 2014, are known from Korea, Japan and China.Proutia cornucervae Roh & Lee, sp. nov. is newly recognised from Korea. In addition, Bruandella niphonica (Hori) is transferred to genus Proutia. Male and genitalia of the species are described and DNA barcodes are provided.
["Proutia cornucervae"]

Monitoring Arthropods in maize and pasture fields in São Miguel and São Jorge Islands: IPM-Popillia Project
The dataset presented here is an achievement of the H2020 European project "Integrated Pest Management of the Invasive Japanese Beetle, Popillia japonica (IPM-Popillia)". This project addresses the challenge of a new risk to plant health in Europe, the invasion of the Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica (Newman, 1838) (Coleoptera, Rutelidae) and provides an environmentally friendly IPM Toolbox to control the expanding pest populations across Europe. This study aims to present the records of terrestrial arthropod diversity with a special focus on four groups belonging to Carabids and Staphylinid beetles (Coleoptera), Opiliones and Anisolabididae (Dermaptera), collected with the potential to be used as biocontrol agents against P. japonica in future Integrated Pest Management programmes. A thorough sampling programme was conducted in maize and pasture fields in two Islands of the Azores (São Miguel and São Jorge) in the summer of 2022.We provided an inventory of the arthropods recorded in two Azorean agroecosystems (maize and pasture fields) from São Miguel and São Jorge Islands. A total of ten maize and ten pasture fields were sampled and a total of 360 pitfall traps were installed, 216 in São Miguel and 144 in São Jorge, for seven consecutive days in August and September of 2022.We collected 18559 specimens belonging to the phylum Arthropoda, four classes, twelve orders, twenty-six families and forty morphospecies (two identified at the family level as carabid and Staphylinid larvae and 38 identified at the species level). We identified 38 taxa at the species level (n = 18281). Of the 38 identified taxa, 18 species were predators, 15 were plant feeders and five were omnivores. The 18 predators belong to the following families: 10 species were Carabidae, two Staphylinidae, one Anisolabididae, one Chrysopidae, one Leiobunidae, one Nabidae, one Phalangiidae and one Scathophagidae. Concerning the origin of the predators, we recorded five native species: two Carabidae, one Leiobunidae, one Scathophagidae and one Nabidae. The other 13 predator species were introduced or indeterminate.
["Popillia japonica"]
["Insect Pest Control Strategies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

New parasitoid (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) records of bark beetles (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in pine plantations in Bulgaria
In 2020 and 2021, chalcidoid parasitoids (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea) of bark beetles in pine (Pinus spp.) plantations were studied in Bulgaria. Samples (cuttings of stems and branches) of pine trees infested by bark beetles were collected from seven plantations of Pinus sylvestris and P. nigra in Bulgaria. From each sampling plot, five cuttings were collected and placed in photoeclectors in laboratory conditions (18-22ºC). Emerged bark beetles and parasitoids were regularly gathered and fixed in ethanol.Six parasitoid species - Dinotiscus colon, Metacolus azureus, M. unifasciatus, Rhopalicus quadratus, R. tutela (Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae) and Heydenia pretiosa (Chalcidoidea, Heydeniidae) were reared from five bark beetle hosts (Ips acuminatus, Pityogenes bistridentatus, Pityophthorus pityographus, Tomicus piniperda and T. minor). Amongst them, three species (H. pretiosa, M. azureus and R. quadratus) are recorded as new for Bulgarian fauna.
["bark beetles"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

New data on the distribution and diversity of the Tonkin limestone rat (Tonkinomys daovantieni, Rodentia, Muridae)
The paper presented novel findings of little-known species of rodents the Tonkin limestone rat Tonkinomys daovantieni in Cao Bang Province, Vietnam with its morphological and genetic characterisation. The study summarises data on the distribution of this data-deficient species, available museum collections, genetic samples, information on its taxonomy and ecology, important to establish the proper conservation status of the species. An exhaustive map of the findings is provided. It is shown that, based on the data currently available, the species does not require taxonomic revision and also, apparently, does not need a special conservation measure; its status may be established to date as Near Threatened B1a+2a and the current population trend – Stable, IUCN.
["Southeast Asia"]
["Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A metabarcode based (species) inventory of the northern Adriatic phytoplankton
The northern Adriatic is characterised as the coldest and most productive marine area of the Mediterranean, which is due to high nutrient levels introduced by river discharges, the largest of which is the Italian Po River (at the same time also the largest freshwater input into the Mediterranean). The northern Adriatic is a very shallow marine ecosystem with ocean current patterns that result in long retention times of plankton in the area. The northern Adriatic phytoplankton biodiversity and abundance are well-studied, through many scientific and long-term monitoring reports. These datasets were based on phytoplankton morphological traits traditionally obtained with light microscopy. The most recent comprehensive eastern Adriatic phytoplankton checklist was published more than 20 years ago and is still valuable today. Since phytoplankton taxonomy and systematics are constantly being reviewed (partly also due to new molecular methods of species identification that complement classical methodologies), checklists need to be updated and complemented. Today, metabarcoding of molecular markers gains more and more importance in biodiversity research and monitoring. Here, we report the use of high throughput sequencing methods to re-examine taxonomic richness and provide updated knowledge of phytoplankton diversity in the eastern northern Adriatic to complement the standardised light microscopy method.This study aimed to report an up-to-date list of the phytoplankton taxonomic richness and phylogenetic relationships in the eastern northern Adriatic, based on sequence variability of barcoding genes resolved with advanced molecular tools, namely metabarcoding. Here, metabarcoding is used to complement standardised light microscopy to advance conventional monitoring and research of phytoplankton communities for the purpose of assessing biodiversity and the status of the marine environments. Monthly two-year net sampling targeted six phytoplankton groups including Bacillariophyceae (diatoms) and Chrysophyceae (golden algae) belonging to Ochrophyta, Dinophyceae (dinoflagellates), Cryptophyceae (cryptophytes), Haptophyta (mostly coccolithophorids) and Chlorophyta with Prasinophyceae (prasinophytes) and Chlorophyceae (protist green algae). Generated sequence data were taxonomically assigned and redistributed in two kingdoms, five classes, 32 orders, 49 families and 67 genera. The most diverse group were dinoflagellates, comprising of 34 found genera (48.3%), following by diatoms with 23 (35.4%) and coccolithophorids with three genera (4.0%). In terms of genetic diversity, results were a bit different: a great majority of sequences with one nucleotide tolerance (ASVs, Amplicon sequence variants) assigned to species or genus level were dinoflagellates (83.8%), 13.7% diatoms and 1.6% Chlorophyta, respectively. Although many taxa have not been detected that have been considered as common in this area, metabarcoding revealed five diatoms and 20 dinoflagellate genera that were not reported in previous checklists, along with a few species from other targeted groups that have been reported previously. We here describe the first comprehensive 18S metabarcode inventory for the northern Adriatic Sea.
["metabarcode"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Diversity and distribution of macrofungi (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota) in Tolima, a Department of the Colombian Andes: an annotated checklist
Macrofungi are classified in the phylum Ascomycota and Basidiomycota and they are very important from an ecological and economic point of view. Most studies of fungi in Colombia have been carried out mainly in the Andean Region, especially in the Departments of Antioquia, Valle del Cauca and Cundinamarca. However, other Departments in the Andean Region, like Tolima, located in the Cordillera Central, are well documented for plants (4,797 species) and animals (2,983 species), but very poorly documented in terms of knowledge of fungal diversity.This study provides a compiled and annotated checklist of all known macrofungi in the Department of Tolima, based on published literature and on the identification of new specimens collected from five localities of the Department. All records were updated taxonomically and we include detailed information on the localities in which they are distributed in the Department. The list includes 164 taxa distributed in 15 orders (Agaricales, Polyporales, Russulales, Boletales, Hymenochaetales, Xylariales, Auriculariales, Thelephorales, Cantharellales, Hypocreales, Pezizales, Gloeophyllales, Phallales, Tremellales, Dacrymycetales) and eighteen records in a doubtful taxa section. We present 26 new reports, 19 for Tolima and nine for Colombia. We also provide genetic and phylogenetic evidence of the occurrence of Gloeoporus telephoroides and Podoscypha venustula in Colombia. This checklist provides the basis for future studies on species diversity and taxonomy in Tolima, by identifying the least studied taxa and ecosystems and conservation priorities.

First report of Aphria latifrons (Diptera, Tachinidae, Leskiini) in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are an archipelago of volcanic origin, located off north-west Africa comprising eight islands. Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are the oldest (20 and 15 millon years old, respectively) and the easternmost islands. The order Diptera is one of the most relevant taxa in the Canary Islands as they constitute the second highest species richness. Within this order, the family Tachinidae is especially interesting as all species are endoparasitoids of arthropods and most species play a key role as pollinators. In the Canary Islands, the family comprises 52 species, with Fuerteventura and Lanzarote harbouring up to 20 species each.Aphria latifrons, a Palaearctic tachinid fly, is reported for the first time from the Canary Islands, where it was found on Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. Morphological examination was carried out and the first known barcode of the species is presented. Its potential distribution and source of origin are discussed.
["new record"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

New records of moth flies (Diptera, Psychodidae) for the Dutch Fauna
Prior to this study, the moth flies in The Netherlands were represented by 61 species. Our findings derive from a citizen-science expedition in the Vondelpark in Amsterdam, one of the oldest public parks and best known parks in The Netherlands. The combination of citizen science and the exploration of a well-known urban park has allowed us to contribute to the knowledge of moth fly species present in The Netherlands. The findings from this study provide valuable insights into the distribution, taxonomy and genetic resources of Psychoda and Panimerus species, enhancing our understanding of insect biodiversity and promoting future research in this field.Our study provides two new geographical records of the moth flies in The Netherlands, namely, Psychoda uniformata Haseman, 1907 and Panimerus maynei (Tonnoir, 1920) elevating the total number of species to 63. Furthermore, we provide re-descriptions of the females of Panimerus notabilis (Eaton, 1893) and P. goetghebueri (Tonnoir, 1919). Additionally, we make available for the first time, the sequence of the 5’-end of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene or COI Barcodes for Panimerus notabilis, P. goetghebueri and P. maynei. These COI Barcodes serve as valuable tools for future species identification within the genus.
["citizen science"]

Checklist of newly-vouchered annelid taxa from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean, based on morphology and genetic delimitation
We present a checklist of annelids from recent United Kingdom Seabed Resources (UKSR) expeditions (Abyssal Baseline - ABYSSLINE project) to the eastern abyssal Pacific Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) polymetallic nodule fields, based on DNA species delimitation, including imagery of voucher specimens, Darwin Core (DwC) data and links to vouchered specimen material and new GenBank sequence records. This paper includes genetic and imagery data for 129 species of annelids from 339 records and is restricted to material that is, in general, in too poor a condition to describe formally at this time, but likely contains many species new to science. We make these data available both to aid future taxonomic studies in the CCZ that will be able to link back to these genetic data and specimens and to better underpin ongoing ecological studies of potential deep-sea mining impacts using the principles of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusuable) data and specimens that will be available for all.We include genetic, imagery and all associated metadata in Darwin Core format for 129 species of annelids from the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, eastern abyssal Pacific, with 339 records.

Terrestrial nematodes from the Maritime Antarctic
Soil nematodes are one of the most important terrestrial faunal groups in Antarctica, as they are a major component of soil micro-food webs. Despite their crucial role in soil processes, knowledge of their species diversity and distribution is still incomplete. Taxonomic studies of Antarctic nematodes are fragmented, which prevents assessment of the degree of endemicity and distribution of the species, as well as other aspects of biogeography.The present study is focused on the nematode fauna of one of the three Antarctic sub-regions, the Maritime Antarctic and summarises all findings published up to April 2023. A species list that includes 44 species, belonging to 21 genera, 16 families and eight orders is provided. A review of the literature on terrestrial nematodes inhabiting the Maritime Antarctic showed that the sites are unevenly studied. Three islands (Signy, King George and Livingston Islands) revealed highest species richness, probably due to the highest rates of research effort. Most species and four genera (Antarctenchus, Pararhyssocolpus, Amblydorylaimus and Enchodeloides) are endemic, proving that nematode fauna of the Maritime Antarctic is autochthonous and unique. Several groups of islands/sites have been revealed, based on their nematode fauna. The study showed that species with a limited distribution prevailed, while only two species (Plectus antarcticus and Coomansus gerlachei) have been found in more than 50% of the sites. Based on the literature data, details on species localities, microhabitat distribution, plant associations and availability of DNA sequences are provided.
["endemics"]
["Polar Research and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

First record of Leptoglossus occidentalis Heidemann, 1910 (Hemiptera, Coreidae) in the Canary Islands, a novel pine pest detected through citizen science in an oceanic archipelago
The 'western seed bug', known as Leptoglossus occidentalis, is considered a global invasive species that has experienced a recent rapid expansion worldwide, becoming an important pest species for coniferous forests.With the 'Canary Islands early-warning network for the detection and intervention of invasive exotic species' (RedEXOS), this species was detected for the first time in the Canarian archipelago in an urban area in the eastern part of the island of Gran Canaria. This early detection is crucial for understanding the potential damage in one of the islands with the highest surface area of natural endemic pine forest.
["Coreidae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

High-throughput DNA metabarcoding for determining the gut microbiome of captive critically endangered Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) during fasting
The Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) is a critically endangered species native to the Malaysian Peninsula. To imitate wild conditions where tigers do not hunt every day, numerous wildlife sanctuaries do not feed their tigers daily. However, the effects of fasting on the gut microbiota of captive Malayan tigers remains unknown. This study aimed to characterise the gut microbiota of captive Malayan tigers by comparing their microbial communities during fasting versus normal feeding conditions. This study was conducted at the Melaka Zoo, Malaysian Peninsula and involved Malayan tigers fasted every Monday. In total, ten faecal samples of Malayan tiger, two of Bengal tiger (outgroup) and four of lion (outgroup) were collected and analysed for metabarcoding targeting the 16S rRNA V3–V4 region. In total, we determined 14 phyla, 87 families, 167 genera and 53 species of gut microbiome across Malayan tiger samples. The potentially harmful bacterial genera found in this study included Fusobacterium, Bacteroides, Clostridium sensu stricto 1, Solobacterium, Echerichia shigella, Ignatzschineria and Negativibacillus. The microbiome in the fasting phase had a higher composition and was more diverse than in the feeding phase. The present findings indicate a balanced ratio in the dominant phyla, reflecting a resetting of the imbalanced gut microbiota due to fasting. These findings can help authorities in how to best maintain and improve the husbandry and health of Malayan tigers in captivity and be used for monitoring in ex-situ veterinary care unit.
["Panthera tigris jacksoni"]

Vigilance behaviour during the calving season in female Tibetan antelopes (Pantholops hodgsonii)
Tibetan antelopes (Pantholops hodgsonii) migrate great distances to specific delivery and calving areas. In the current study, we investigated calving site selection and vigilance behaviour during delivery and nursing in migratory female Tibetan antelopes at Zonag Lake. According to observations and analysis, the females were distributed south of Zonag Lake, where vegetation was abundant. We determined their dates of migration (crossing the Qinghai-Tibet Highway observation site), showing a shift of one month during the period from June in 2008 to May 2021. Results also showed that 81.4% of females expressed high vigilance behaviour during calving and nursing compared to those without calves (7.1%). From delivery until calf standing, females were highly vigilant and spent considerable time scanning, with 96% of females showing vigilance behaviour. Females with calves (average 9.94 ± 0.62 s) spent more time on vigilance behaviour than females without calves (average 6.25 ± 1.38 s). Females with newborns spent the greatest amount of time being vigilant (average 51.63 ± 4.24 s). These results not only identify basic Tibetan antelope calving behaviour, but also provide scientific analysis and evidence for further ethological research on female Tibetan antelopes.
["Tibetan antelope"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Morphology and multi-gene phylogeny reveal a novel Torula (Pleosporales, Torulaceae) species from the plateau lakes in Yunnan, China
During an investigation into lignicolous freshwater fungi from the plateau lakes in Yunnan Province, China, two fresh collections of Torula taxa were collected and examined morpholgically.Torula luguhuensis is characterised by: conidiophores which are semi-macronematous mononematous, erect, septate, smooth, slightly flexuous and pale brown; conidiogenous cells which are holoblastic, mono- to polyblastic, integrated, terminal, terminal or intercalary in conidial chains, doliiform and pale brown; conidia which are branched chains, acrogenous, straight or slightly curved, dark brown to blackish, pale brown or subhyaline at apex, 1–3 septate, strongly constricted at the septa, verruculose or finely echinulate and rounded at both ends. A new species was introduced, based on morphological and phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS, LSU, RPB2 and TEF sequence data. Detailed descriptions and illustrations are provided, with an updated phylogenetic tree depicting intergeneric relationships within the Torulaceae.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Eriogyna pyretorum (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae) parasitoid species investigated in Fujian, China
Eriogyna pyretorum Westwood is a notorious defoliator of Camphora officinarum Nees that causes large economic and ecological losses in planted forests. To understand the importance of suppressing the population of E. pyretorum on natural parasitoids, a four-years investigation was conducted in the field. Four egg parasitoid species Ooencyrtus kuvanae Howard, Trichogramma chionis Ishii, Telenomus sp. and Anastatus dexingensis Sheng & Wang were captured in the wild. One of these is the dominant endoparasitoid species T. chionis, which has a quicker developmental time (8.33 d), more offspring (8.39/egg) and a greater parasitism rate (89.54%). With different elevation distributions, the parasitism rates for Kriechbaumerella longiscutellaris Qian & He, Gregopimpla himalayensis (Cameron), Theronia depressa (Gupta) and Xanthopimpla konowi (Krieger) were 17.29%, 2.10%, 4.23% and 0.83%, respectively. Female longevity (47.75 d), offspring (13.36/pupa) and sex ratio (1.16:1) were compared in four pupal parasitoids and K. longiscutellaris was the most abundant species of E. pyretorum in Fujian Province.
["Camphora officinarum"]

A new cave-dwelling spider of the genus Speleoticus (Araneae, Nesticidae) from Sichuan, China
Speleoticus Ballarin & Li, 2016 is a relatively small spider genus of the family Nesticidae, currently including five cave-dwelling species, distributed exclusively in East Asia, four of which are known from China.A new troglobitic spider of the genus Speleoticus from the limestone Cave Hanwang Dong, north-eastern Sichuan, China, is described under the name of S. hei Yu & Lin, sp. n. Detailed descriptions, photographs and a distribution map of the new species are provided.

A new species of Paracedicus Fet, 1993 (Araneae, Desidae) from Turkey
The desid spider genus Paracedicus Fet, 1993 comprises seven species distributed in the western Palaearctic. From Turkey, only Paracedicus baram Levy, 2007 has been recorded so far.A new species, Paracedicus turcicus sp. nov., is described, based on specimens of both sexes collected in Eastern Anatolia. Detailed morphological description and photographs are provided. Additionally, a key to all species of the genus and a distribution map are provided.
["Cedicinae"]

Inventory of tiger- and ground-beetles (Coleoptera, Caraboidea, Cicindelidae and Carabidae) in two sampling seasons of the Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique
The Gorongosa National Park (Mozambique) is one of the most emblematic protected areas in Africa, well known for its vertebrate biodiversity and restoration ecology efforts following the Mozambican civil war in 1992. The invertebrate biodiversity of Gorongosa National Park is still poorly studied, although the scarce information available indicates the existence of a rich number of species, namely in the case of tiger- and ground-beetles (Coleoptera, Caraboidea). Moreover, the study of arthropod assemblages is key for designing conservation practices since they are potentially accurate biodiversity and ecological indicators. Hence, the diversity assessment of Caraboidea beetles using standardised methodologies is likely to provide a new insight for future conservation planning and help to quantify the effects of climate change in areas identified as vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures, such as the Gorongosa National Park.We report the occurrence of five tiger beetles (Cicindelidae) and 93 ground-beetles (Carabidae) species/morphospecies in Gorongosa National Park from a field survey funded by the ECOASSESS project. Sampling was performed in the four main habitat types present in the Park (miombo tropical forest, mixed dry forest, transitional forest and grasslands) between 25 October and 25 November 2019. In this sampling window, the turnover of Caraboidea species from the dry season to the wet season was recorded for the first time. Twenty-eight species of ground-beetles are new records to Mozambique, including three new subgenera and three new genera. Additional information on species phenology and habitat preferences is also provided.
["biodiversity conservation"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Mesopelagic fishes of the North-West African Upwelling from the Discovery Collections
Mesopelagic fish specimens from two stations in the NW African Upwelling were identified and catalogued to produce a Darwin Core-aligned dataset. A total of 9655 individual fishes were identified, with 9017 specimens identified at least to genus level and 3124 specimens identified to species level. This dataset comprises specimens collected from the 1990 RRS Discovery (III) Cruise D195 and was used to investigate depth-related trends in diversity and community composition alongside species-specific migratory behaviour. The finalised dataset was published on OBIS through the Deep-Sea node.This dataset contains occurrence and abundance data for midwater fishes caught between the Mauritanian coast and Cape Verde, published for the first time. The dataset records 146 different fish taxa. Twenty-three taxa in the dataset are not present in any prior OBIS datasets that cover the area. These novel taxa are: Bathylagus andriashevi, Bolinichthys indicus, Bolinichthys supralateralis, Cyclothone parapallida, Dolichopteroides binocularis, Gigantactis indet. Gymnoscopelus stet., Howella atlantica, Hygophum proximum, Hygophum taaningi, Ichthyococcus polli, Lampadena anomala, Lampanyctus cuprarius, Lampanyctus isaacsi, Lampanyctus lineatus, Lampanyctus macdonaldi, Lampanyctus nobilis, Lestidiops mirabilis, Loweina rara, Macroparalepis brevis, Melamphaes microps and Melanonus gracilis. An anglerfish specimen belonging to Linophrynidae was also found, the first in the leftvent family to be logged in the area on OBIS; however, the specimen was too damaged to identify beyond this level.
["deep-sea"]
["Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Pancorius guiyang sp. nov., a new species of jumping spiders (Araneae, Salticidae) from Guizhou Province, China
Pancorius Simon, 1902 is a relatively large genus of jumping spider family Salticidae and currently contains 42 valid species that are mainly distributed in South East Asia, 11 of which are recorded from China.A new spider species of the genus Pancorius from Guiyang City in southwest China, is described under the name of P. guiyang Yang, Gu & Yu, sp. nov. Detailed descriptions and photographs are provided. DNA barcodes (a partial fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene, COI) of the species were obtained to confirm matching of the sexes and for future use in molecular studies.

The genus Eurymeros Bhat (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) newly recorded from China
Alysiinae Leach is a species-rich subfamily in Braconidae, of which several species play an important role in biological control. The monotypic genus Eurymeros tumespiraculum Bhat, 1980 was discovered in Tibet and Yunnan provinces for the first time, representing the first record of the genus Eurymeros Bhat, 1980 (Braconidae, Alysiinae) in China.The rare genus Eurymeros Bhat, 1980 (Braconidae, Alysiinae) and its only known species, E. tumespiraculum Bhat, 1980, are newly recorded from China. The morphological variation of the Chinese specimens is described and illustrated.

Vascular plant taxa occurrences in exotic woodland and in natural and production forests on the Islands of São Miguel, Terceira and Pico (Azores)
The data presented here originated from field expeditions carried out between 2017 and 2018, within the framework of Forest-Eco2 project: "Towards an Ecological and Economic valorisation of the Azorean Forest". The project aimed to quantify the ecological value of the Azorean forests, including carbon accumulation and to design and propose measures that could further enhance forest sustainability. For that, 90 forest plots were sampled on three Azores islands - São Miguel, Terceira and Pico - equally distributed into natural forest, exotic woodland and production forest. The aim of this report is to further expand knowledge on biodiversity trends enclosed in the different forest types present in the Azores, by providing a list of the occurrences of the 105 different vascular plant taxa together with a brief characterisation of their origin and life-form.We provide an inventory of indigenous and non-indigenous vascular plant taxa from 90 forest stands. A total of 105 taxa were identified and registered, belonging to 60 families, 91 genera, 101 species and four subspecies. A total of 35% of the taxa were endemic, 27% native and 38% non-indigenous, including 19% of invasive taxa. Endangered and vulnerable taxa were registered, including Elaphoglossum hirtum (Sw.) C.Chr., Lactuca watsoniana Trel. and others which were considered by the authors a priority for conservation (e.g. Arceuthobium azoricum Wiens & Hawksw., Bellis azorica Hochst. ex Seub., Sanicula azorica Guthnick ex Seub., Platanthera micrantha (Hochst. ex Seub.) Schltr.). Our records provide detailed and updated knowledge of Azorean Forest flora and highlight the role of natural forests as indigenous plant diversity hotspots and exotic woodland as a source of invasive taxa within the Archipelago.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest ecology and management"]

Expansion of the distribution range of Asplenium trilobum Cav (Polypodiopsida, Aspleniaceae) in the Mediterranean forest of the Chilean coast
The biodiversity hotspot of central Chile is home to a high proportion of endemic species, but some of these species are inconspicuous and not easily observed. During a botanical exploration in the Los Queules National Reserve (Chile), a population of Asplenium trilobum Cav. was identified. The plants were found growing on the bark of a Myrceugenia parvifolia (DC.) Kausel tree in a small swamp next to specimens of Drimys winteri J.R.Forst. & G.Forst. (35°59'11.84"S; 72°41'11.53"W). Several previously unrecorded species were found, including Carex cf. excelsa Poepp. ex Kunth, Chusquea cf. quila Kunth, Ercilla cf. spicata (Bertero) Moq., and Boquila trifoliolata (DC.) Decne., highlighting the importance of exploring and documenting this biodiversity hotspot. The discovery in this wilderness area extends the distribution 86 km north on the continent, which was previously limited to the east of the municipality of Penco in the Biobío region (36°44'9.26"S; 72°57'42.5"W). This paper presents an observed specimen, its locality, and associated species.
["biodiversity hostpost"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

A new troglobitic species of the genus Troglocoelotes Zhao & S. Li, 2019 (Araneae, Agelenidae, Coelotinae) from Guizhou, China
Troglocoelotes Zhao & S. Li, 2019 is the only known genus of Coelotinae of which all species have deep morphological adaptations to the subterranean environment, such as depigmentation of body, degenerated or absent eyes and, frequently, with attenuated bodies and/or appendages. Four species of Troglocoelotes have been reported from Guizhou Province, China.A new funnel-web spider of the genus Troglocoelotes is described and illustrated on the basis of a single female specimen from Tongren City, Guizhou: Troglocoelotes sinanensis sp. nov. Additionally, photos of the collection site and a distribution map are also provided.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A survey of Tmarus Simon, 1875 (Araneae, Thomisidae) from Fanjing Mountain Nature Reserve, Guizhou, China
Tmarus Simon, 1875 is a relatively large spider genus, currently includes 227 species distributed worldwide. Fanjing Mountain Nature Reserve is one of China’s most biodiverse regions. However, Tmarus can be regarded as being poorly represented in Fanjing Mountain, with only one species having been recorded so far: T. fanjing Yang & Yu, 2022.Recently, various expeditions to Fanjing Mountain Nature Reserve were carried out by the authors. In this paper, two Tmarus species were brought to light by those expeditions: T. fanjing Yang & Yu, 2022 and T. circinalis Song & Chai, 1990. T. fanjing is redescribed, based on new material and the female is described and illustrated for the first time. The supplementary micrographs of T. circinalis are given for the first time. The DNA barcodes and a distribution map of both species are provided for future use.
["Spider", "China", "Nature reserve", "Geography", "Ecology", "Biology", "Archaeology"]

Palaearctic leaf beetle Chrysolina fastuosa (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Chrysomelinae) new to North America
The univoltine leaf beetle Chrysolina fastuosa (Scopoli, 1763) is native to in the Palearctic Region from eastern Siberia to western Europe.First North American records are presented for C. fastuosa (Scopoli, 1763) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Chrysomelinae), as confirmed by vouchered specimens from Canada: Nova Scotia. Additional citizen science records from USA: Vermont are also discussed. Diagnostic information is presented to distinguish C. fastuosa from other North American Chrysomelidae and a species distribution model to assess its potential spread in North America is presented. This insect is expected to cause some feeding damage to above-ground parts of ornamental and invasive Lamiaceae, especially species of Galeopsis L. The species distribution model and the range of its host plant Galeopsis tetrahit, suggest the north-eastern US and south-eastern Canada, from the Atlantic coast to the west end of Lake Superior provide the most suitable conditions for this species. The United States of America and Canada are now known to be home to 70 or more species of adventive Chrysomelidae.
["invasive alien species"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Native plant diversity for ecological reclamation in Moroccan open-pit phosphate mines
Mining activities have significant impacts on the environment, particularly in terms of the destruction of natural habitats andbiodiversity loss. With the increasing awareness of the importance of ecological restoration and conservation, there is a growing need to study and understand the flora that thrives in mining sites in order to facilitate successful reclamation efforts. This study aimed to investigate the floristic composition and plant diversity of four phosphate mine sites (PMSs) in Morocco, namely Bou Craa mine (BCM), Ben Guerir mine (BGM), Youssoufia mine (YSM), and Khouribga mine (KHM).The study found a total of 215 vascular plant species from 166 genera and 49 taxonomic families across the four sites. BGM was the most diverse site with 120 plant species, followed by KHM with 75, YSM with 57, and BCM with 54. Compositae family species were the most common at BGM and KHM, while Amaranthaceae species were dominant at BCM, and Poaceae and Compositae at YSM. Therophytes (annual species) were the most common functional group (45.0%), followed by chamaephytes (19.6%) and hemicryptophytes (15.9%).Atriplex nummularia and Chenopodium album were the most common species found at all four sites, while Atriplex semibaccata, Bassia muricata, Haloxylon scoparium, and 12 other species were common at three sites. However, 156 plant species were found at only one site. The findings of this study highlight the significant abundance of plant species in Moroccan PMSs and provide a basis for successful ecological engineering rehabilitation plans. The study emphasizes the importance of studying the indigenous plant species that naturally populate these marginal lands to ensure successful reclamation efforts.
["arid and semi-arid climate"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Checklist of the micromolluscs in the intertidal zone of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea, China
The diversity of the sedimentary environment and molluscs is rich in the intertidal zone of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea. At present, many of the investigations focus on macromolluscs, while the diversity of micromolluscs is seriously underestimated.In this study, the survey of micromolluscs was carried out in the intertidal zone of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea. The collection and preservation of micromolluscs, as well as the preparation methods of morphological characteristic structures by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were explored. A total of 20 species were described in this survey. These can be assigned to 16 families, four orders (Vetigastropoda (1), Caenogastropoda (10), Heterobranchia (5) and Autobranchia (3)) and two classes (Gastropoda (17), Bivalvia (3)).

Biotopes of the intertidal zone in Clarence Island (south of the Strait of Magellan)
The characteristics of the Strait of Magellan promote the formation of unique environments, with diverse habitats and marine organisms. This fragmentation of the landscape generates diverse little-explored ecological associations, especially in the zone of sub-Antarctic islands of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. One way to address this lack of knowledge is through the biotope characterization methodology, with ecological units composed of the habitat and the communities associated with these environments, obtaining data and information on the dominant and incidental taxonomic groups. This is a good research model to conduct baseline studies in coastal benthic marine environments.A data set in Darwin Core standard is presented of the species that make up the intertidal biotopes of Clarence Island (Tierra del Fuego Archipelago, south of the Strait of Magellan). This includes 50 identified species and the specific coordinates for each sampled location, with a total of 1400 georeferenced records. Mollusks were the most diverse taxon with 21 species, followed by algae (14 species). Sessile organisms such as the barnacles Elminius kingii and Austromegabalanus psittacus predominate in these ecosystems, followed by bivalve mollusks such as Choromytilus chorus and Mytilus chilensis, which together with Nacella magellanica and the alga Hildenbrandia sp. make up more than 50% of the total records. The inclusion of biotope patterns in this study complements the information on benthic marine flora and fauna in the intertidal zone, including new records for the coast in the Clarence Island area, which is within the boundary of the Kawésqar National Park.
["barnacles"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Polar Research and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

First record of the non-native Osbornellus auronitens (Provancher, 1889) (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae) in Italy
Globalisation and international trade, in particular, are the major drivers of introduction and the spread of non-native species. To date, more than 30 species of non-native Hemiptera Auchenorrhyncha have been accidentally introduced into Europe. Some species are invasive with important repercussions primarily for agricultural activities, while almost no information exists on their impacts within natural ecosystems. Therefore, early detection of non-native species and their subsequent monitoring are extremely important actions to undertake.The North American Osbornellus auronitens (Provancher, 1889), firstly recorded for the Palearctic and Europe in Switzerland in 2016, is recorded in Italy for the first time on the basis of 77 specimens collected between August 2015 and October 2022.

Freshwater fishes (Actinopterygii) of Kenyir Reservoir, Peninsular Malaysia: Updated checklist, taxonomic concerns and alien species
A total of 87 freshwater fish species from 30 families were recorded from the Kenyir Reservoir, Peninsular Malaysia, where 75 are native and 12 are introduced species. Few species still have unstable taxonomy identities which urge further studies. Most of the species were categorised as Least Concern (LC) and two were threatened species; Endangered and Critically Endangered (EN and CR). One introduced species, Gambusia affinis is widespread in the human-associated area, while other introduced fish species can be considered low in numbers.Twenty five fish species are recorded for the first time in the Kenyir Reservoir.

Taxonomic notes and key to the West Palearctic Antocha (Antocha) Osten Sacken, 1860 (Diptera, Limoniidae) with description of a new species from Morocco
The Mediterranean Region of the West Palearctic is one of the most species-rich biomes in the world, hosting a high level of endemism and relict species with important conservation value. The North Africa Atlas Mountains (spanning Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia) belong to a poorly-investigated region of the Mediterranean area, with overlooked aquatic biodiversity; hence, a number of species still remain to be discovered.The subgenus Antocha (Antocha) Osten Sacken, 1860 is recorded for the first time from Africa, with a description of A. (A.) staryi Keresztes & Mabrouki sp. nov. from hilly regions of the Middle Atlas region, Morocco. The unique design of the male terminalia differentiates well the newly-discovered species from its closely-related and range-restricted A. (A.) phoenicia Thomas and Dia, 1982. This is in contrast with the high intraspecific and geographically poorly-defined variability of the widespread A. (A.) vitripennis (Meigen, 1830), for which morphological variability of male genital structures is discussed.Illustrations of male genital parts, distribution data and key to the species from the West Palearctic area are also provided.
["Antocha (Antocha)"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Revision of Belvosia Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera, Tachinidae) and 33 new species from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica with a key to known North and Mesoamerican species
This revision is part of a continuing series of taxonomic work aimed at the description of new taxa and the redescription of known taxa of the Tachinidae of Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica. Here we describe 33 new species in the genus Belvosia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 (Diptera: Tachinidae). All species described here were reared from this ongoing inventory of wild-caught caterpillars spanning a variety of families (Lepidoptera: Erebidae, Eupterotidae, Noctuidae, Notodontidae, Saturniidae, and Sphingidae). We provide a morphological description of each species with limited information on life history, molecular data, and photographic documentation. In addition to the new species, the authors provide a redescription of the genus Belvosia, as well as provide a key to the identification of the species present in the Meso- and North-American fauna.The following 33 new species of Belvosia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, all authored by Fleming & Woodley, are described: Belvosia adrianguadamuzi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia anacarballoae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia angelhernandezi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia brigittevilchezae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia alixtomoragai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia carolinacanoae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia ciriloumanai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia diniamartinezae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia duniagarciae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia duvalierbricenoi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia eldaarayae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia eliethcantillanoae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia freddyquesadai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia gloriasihezarae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia guillermopereirai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia harryramirezi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia hazelcambroneroae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia jorgehernandezi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia josecortezi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia joseperezi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia keinoraragoni Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia luciariosae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia manuelpereirai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia manuelriosi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia minorcarmonai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia osvaldoespinozai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia pabloumanai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia petronariosae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia ricardocaleroi Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia robertoespinozai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia rostermoragai Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia ruthfrancoae Fleming & Woodley sp. n., Belvosia sergioriosi Fleming & Woodley sp. n.Belvosia canalis Aldrich, 1928 is reared and recorded from the inventory; new information relative to host is provided and the species is rediscribed.The following are proposed by Fleming & Woodley as new synonyms of Belvosia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830: Brachybelvosia Townsend, 1927 syn. n., Belvosiomimops Townsend, 1935 syn. n.The following three new combinations are proposed as a result of the new synonymies: Belvosia brasilensis (Townsend, 1927), comb. n.; and Belvosia barbiellinii (Townsend, 1935), comb. n.The authors also propose the following new synonymies: Belvosia brasilensis (Townsend, 1927) = Belvosia aurulenta (Bigot, 1888), syn. n.; Belvosia pollinosa Rowe, 1933 = Belvosia borealis Aldrich, 1928 syn. n.; Belvosia weyenberghiana (Wulp, 1883) = Belvosia fuliginosa (Walker, 1853) syn. n.; Belvosia brasiliensis Townsend, 1927 = Belvosia fuliginosa (Walker, 1853) syn. n.; Belvosia luteola Coquillett, 1900 = Belvosia ochriventris (Wulp, 1890) syn. n.; Belvosia socia (Walker, 1853) = Belvosia proxima (Walker, 1853) syn. n.; Belvosia chrysopyga (Bigot, 1887) = Belvosia unifasciata (Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830) syn. n.; Belvosia chrysopygata (Bigot, 1888) = Belvosia unifasciata (Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830) syn. n.
["Caterpillar"]

Taxonomic notes on Stemmops O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1894 (Araneae, Theridiidae) of China
The theridiid spider genus Stemmops O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1894 includes 27 extant species and is distributed in America (23 spp.) and Asia (4 spp.). Three species, S. forcipus Zhu, 1998 (♂♀), S. nigrabdomenus Zhu, 1998 (♂) and S. nipponicus Yaginuma, 1969 (♂♀), are currently known from China.Two new species of Stemmops are described from China: S. atratus sp. n. (♀, Jiangsu, Zhejiang) and S. lini sp. n. (♂♀, Fujian, Zhejiang). In addition, the previously unknown female of S. nigrabdomenus Zhu, 1998 is described. Photos and morphological descriptions are provided.

A new species of Mallinella Strand, 1906 (Araneae, Zodariidae) from South China
Only one zodariid species, Storenomorpha lushanensis Yu & Chen, 2009 was found from Jiangxi Province. No other Mallinella species have been recorded from this Province.A new species, Mallinella shahu sp. n. is described from Jiangxi Province, China. Morphological illustrations, living photos and distribution map are given.
["Jiangxi Province"]

New species, new records and key to the species of the Rhagovelia itatiaiana group (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Veliidae) from Brazil
Rhagovelia Mayr, 1865 (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Veliidae), known as riffle bugs, includes more than 400 species and is commonly found in tropical lotic environments, including coastal marine habitats, such as mangroves and estuaries. Due to the elevated number of species, the fauna from the Americas has been divided into several groups, which facilitates taxonomic studies. Amongst them, the itatiana group currently includes two species from the Greater Antilles and five from south-eastern and southern Brazil. Despite the many taxonomic studies developed during the past few decades, new species of Rhagovelia are still being discovered in several areas of the continent, including the Atlantic Forest of eastern Brazil.Rhagovelia bispoi sp. n. is described, illustrated and compared with similar congeners. The new species belongs to the itatiaiana group and can be diagnosed by the uniformly black mesonotum, the presence of a tuft of setae medially on male abdominal sternum VII, the armature of the male hind femur and the distinctive shape of the paramere. In addition, we present new records of R. trepida Bacon, 1948 from the States of Paraná and Santa Catarina and a key to the species of the itatiaiana group recorded from Brazil.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Turfgrass Adaptation and Management"]

A new species of Papiliomyces (Clavicipiteae, Hypocreales) from China
Papiliomyces (Hypocreales, Sordariomycetes) was introduced to accommodate two species: Papiliomyces liangshanensis and Papiliomyces shibinensis. Later, Papiliomyces liangshanensis was renamed Ophiocordyceps liangshanensis. However, the Papiliomyces liangshanensis molecular data (Nepalese) used to establish the Papiliomyces genus was different from Ophiocordyceps liangshanensis (China) strains.This paper describes a new species, Papiliomyces longiclavatus, found in Yangchang District, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, China. It is proposed, based on morphology and multilocus phylogeny (ITS, SSU, LSU, TEF1, RPB1 and RPB2). The new species is phylogenetically most closely related to Papiliomyces liangshanensis (Nepalese collections). However, Papiliomyces liangshanensis (Nepalese collections) requires morphological details and additional detection. The new species differs from other Papiliomyces species in having robust stroma with completely immersed perithecia, multi-septate ascospores, cylindrical secondary ascospores, two types of phialides and two types of conidia:longer α-conidia and longer β-conidia.
["Papiliomyces"]

Notes on two Stiphropus species from China (Araneae, Thomisidae)
The spider genus Stiphropus Gerstaecker, 1873 currently includes 21 extant species that are distributed in Africa (12) and Asia (9). Four species, S. falciformus Yang, Zhu & Song, 2006, S. myrmecophilus Huang & Lin, 2020, S. ocellatus Thorell, 1887 and S. soureni Sen, 1964, are currently known from China.The mismatched female of S. falciformus is reported as a new species: S. qianlei sp. n. (♂♀). The unknown male of S. soureni Sen, 1964 is described for the first time. Photos and morphological descriptions are provided.

A new species of Notiobiella Banks, 1909 from China (Neuroptera, Hemerobiidae), with a key to Chinese species
Notiobiella Banks, 1909 is a green-coloured genus of brown lacewing (Hemerobiidae) that is widely distributed in Central and South America, Africa, southeast Asia, Australia and some south-western Pacific islands. There are approximately 49 species of this genus worldwide, with 10 species recorded from China, including one new species that is described in this paper.In this paper, we describe a new species, Notiobiella maculosa sp. n. of the genus Notiobiella Banks, 1909 from Yunnan Province. The morphological characters of the adults are described in detail and illustrated. A key for identification of adults is also provided. All specimens have been deposited in the Entomological Museum of China Agricultural University (CAU), Beijing.
["Hemerobiidae"]

Description of Nilgirius pygoprominulus sp. n. (Opiliones, Assamiidae, Trionyxellinae) from China, with notes on its sexual dimorphism
A new species of Nilgirius, N. pygoprominulus sp. n. (male and female) in the family Assamiidae from Yunnan Province, China, is described and illustrated herein. Sexual size dimorphism (male larger than female) is inconsistent with most assamiids. Other sexually dimorphic features (body shape, leg IV and pseudonychium) are reported.Nilgirius pygoprominulus sp. n. is described as a new species of Trionyxellinae. Information about sexual dimorphism of the species is reported.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Range expansion of Bombus (Pyrobombus) bimaculatus Cresson in Canada (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
The two-spotted bumble bee, Bombus bimaculatus Cresson, 1863 (Hymenoptera, Apidae), is a common species in central North America, with few published records of this species in Canada west of Ontario or east of Quebec.Based on recently collected specimens from Saskatchewan and confirmed records posted to iNaturalist (https://www.inaturalist.org/) in the past 10 years (i.e. since 2013), we provide evidence that this species has only recently expanded its range in Canada, westwards into the Prairies Ecozone (Manitoba, Saskatchewan) and east into the Maritime Provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island).
["two-spotted Bumble Bee"]

Ponticola alasanicus sp. n. (Gobiiformes, Gobiidae) from the Alazani River Basin, Georgia
The South Caucasus Region and Georgia, in particular, is a biodiversity hotspot and characterised by high diversity of landscapes and ecosystems, as well as high levels of endemism. At the same time, diversity of freshwater organisms in the region remains poorly studied, including fishes. The freshwater fish fauna of the South Caucasus Region consists of 119 fish species, of which 13 species belong to the order Gobiiformes. It should be noted that gobies are amongst the poorly studied taxa in Georgia and probably unknown/undescribed species still living in the Georgian freshwater ecosystems which requires further research.Ponticola alasanicus, a new species is described from the Alazani River, western Caspian Sea Basin, Georgia. It is distinguished from its congeners in the Caspian and Black Sea Basins by having the following features: dorsal fin with VI-VII spines and 15½-16½ branched rays, anal fin with 10½-12½ branched rays; lateral line with 48-55 scales; laterally compressed body with dark brown and black blotches - scales ctenoid; first and second dorsal fins almost touching with dorsal fins bases; head large, depressed, wider than deep, its length approaches almost 3.4th of standard length; nape scaled completely; cycloid scales cover upper part of opercle, cheeks noticeably swollen; snout longer than eye, eye diameter 4.5 times its head length; lower jaw slightly protruding; upper lip is uniform; pelvic disc short, elongated and flat, not reaching the anus; the pectoral fins extends vertically through first branched dorsal fin; caudal fin rounded. Ponticola alasanicus sp. n. belongs to P. syrman group and it is separated by a minimum Kimura 2-parameter distance of 3.5, 3.6 and 4.8% from P. syrman, P. iranicus and P. patimari, respectively.
["Ponticola alasanicus sp. n."]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Soil centipedes (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha) in the Val Camonica forests (Southern Alps): species composition and richness
Soil centipedes (Chilopoda, Geophilomorpha) are a widespread group of predators in the forest soils of the European Alps. While in the eastern and western parts of the Southern Prealps, larger efforts were devoted to sample and study the geophilomorph fauna, little is known about species richness and composition of geophilomorph communities in the central part of Southern Prealps. In this work, five sites located in the Val Camonica were surveyed by hand searching, between November 2021 and July 2022 and their species richness was estimated applying non-parametrical statistical methods (Chao-1 and Abundance-based Coverage Estimator) to account for incomplete detection. A total of 18 species were found amongst the five sites. A maximum of 12 species were recorded in each single site, while estimates suggest that another 1-3 species were likely undetected. Species composition were found highly variable also between sites with similar species richness.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

A newly recorded genus with description of a new cave-dwelling species of Flagelliphantes (Araneae, Linyphiidae) from northeastern China
The genus Flagelliphantes Saaristo & Tanasevitch, 1996 was proposed by Saaristo & Tanasevitch, 1996 to accommodate three ex-Lepthyphantes species distributed in northern Eurasia. Male Flagelliphantes are easlily recognised by having a hood-shaped thumb on the embolus. The females have a long, S-shaped scape and the posterior median plate of the epigyne is grossly enlarged (“hypertrophied”).While examining Linyphiidae Blackwall, 1859 specimens from Yunxia Cave in China’s Jilin Province, we discovered a new cave-dwelling species of the genus Flagelliphantes, F. yunxia sp. n. In this paper, we provide detailed description and photos of its diagnostic somatic and genitalic features. It is the first record of the genus from China.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Agapostemon fasciatus Crawford (Hymenoptera, Halictidae), a valid North American bee species ranging into southern Canada
Sweat bees of the genus Agapostemon Guérin-Méneville, 1844 (Hymenoptera: Halictidae) are common and widespread in the Americas. Despite distinct morphological characters that were recognised in earlier taxonomic treatments, Agapostemon fasciatus Crawford, 1901 has been considered a variety of A. melliventris Cresson, 1874 since the 1930s and later placed into synonymy under A. melliventris in the early 1970s.A more detailed study of morphology (including examination of type materials), distribution and genetic data (i.e. DNA barcodes) of these two taxa suggests they are not conspecific. As such, A. fasciatus is resurrected as a valid North American bee species. Agapostemon fasciatus ranges further north in North America than A. mellivenrtis, reaching the southern Prairies Ecozone of Canada (Alberta, Saskatchewan), while most records of A. melliventris are from the south-western United States and northern Mexico. More accurate distributions for both species can be modelled as specimens in collections are identified using the diagnostic features provided. However, additional work is required on the A. melliventris species complex in the southern United States as genetic data suggest that multiple taxa could be present.
["sweat bees"]

First record of the predatory stink bug species Picromerus griseus (Dallas) (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomidae, Asopinae) in Japan, with an illustrated key to the Japanese species of the genus Picromerus Amyot & Serville
The predatory stink bug genus Picromerus Amyot & Serville, 1843 (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Pentatomidae, Asopinae) comprises 11 species found in the Northern Hemisphere. In Japan, two species have been recorded to date. However, an easy-to-understand identification method, such as an illustrated key, is lacking. Currently, Picromerus griseus (Dallas, 1851) has been recorded in Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Indonesia, Myanmar, Pakistan and Taiwan, but not in Japan.Picromerus griseus was recorded in Japan for the first time, based on a single individual collected from grasslands around the fields of Ishigaki Island of the Ryukyu Islands, which belong to the Oriental Region. This discovery represents the easternmost record of the species. An illustrated key to the species of Picromerus occurring in Japan is also provided.

Occurrence dataset of birds in the Xinjizhou National Wetland Park, Nanjing, China
Xinjizhou National Wetland Park is located in Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China. With diverse wetland landscape types, Xinjizhou National Wetland Park maintains high biodiversity all year around. Meanwhile, as an important hub on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, Xinjizhou National Wetland Park also occupies a core ecological position in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River in Jiangsu Province. Therefore, carrying out systematic bird surveys and consequently understanding the distribution of birds and the seasonal variation of their communities can provide important insights for conservation. We conducted a one-year bird survey in the Xinjizhou National Wetland Park from 2021 to 2022 and provided occurrence datasets, including detailed species and geographic information.This dataset fills the knowledge gap in avian community composition for the Wetland Park and more importantly provides a basis to assess the conservation effectiveness of conservation measures taken in the Wetland Park.This occurrence dataset is the first public record of birds in Xinjizhou National Wetland Park. All data have been published on GBIF.
["Xinjizhou National Wetland Park"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Franz Kafka Literary Studies"]

Rediscovering a species not seen for a hundred years, Stathmopoda tacita (Meyrick, 1913) (Lepidoptera, Stathmopodidae), with its unusual fern-spore-feeding life history
Despite being the second largest group of vascular plants, ferns are scarcely reported being fed by insects when compared to angiosperms. Within these fern-feeding insects, lepidopterans are poorly represented and are restricted only to specific groups in this speciose order. The consumers specialising on fern spores are even scarcer in the order, with the majority being consumers of vegetative structures. Amongst the fern-spore-feeding Lepidoptera, Stathmopodidae is the family with the highest species diversity, even with a subfamily, Cyprininae Sinev, 2015, specialising on fern spores. However, fern-spore-feeding habit is not restricted to this subfamily. To understand the evolution of fern-spore-feeding within this family and to increase our knowledge of insect-fern evolution, detailed studies on fern-spore feeding stathmopodids are essential.The present study rediscovered a rare, fern-spore-feeding, stathmopodid micro-moth, Stathmopoda tacita (Meyrick, 1913), which has not been formally recorded or identified for more than 100 years. We documented the life history of this species and identified several species of Pyrrosia (Polypodiaceae, Platycerioideae) as host for the moth’s larvae. A re-description of the fern-feeding moth is also provided as the original description is obscure in terms of character diagnosis.
["Pyrossia"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

New record and dietary ecology of a poorly known frog, Amolops shihaitaoi Wang, Li, Du, Hou & Yu, 2022 (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae), from Ha Giang Province, Vietnam
The Hekou Torrent Frog (Amolops shihaitaoi) was recently discovered from southern China and northern Vietnam in 2022. The knowledge about natural history and feeding ecology of this species is virtually lacking.Based on our recent fieldwork in northern Vietnam, we report a new population of A. shihaitaoi from Ha Giang Province. In this study, we provide novel data on the diet of A. shihaitaoi, based on stomach content analyses of 36 individuals (17 males and 19 females). A total of 36 prey categories with 529 items, comprising 515 items of invertebrates and 14 unidentified items, were found in the stomachs of A. shihaitaoi. The dominant prey items of the species were Hymenoptera (Formicidae), Orthoptera (Acrididae), Lepidoptera (Lepidoptera other), Mantodea (Mantidae) and Araneae. The importance index (Ix) of prey categories ranged from 7.1% to 11.5%. Hymenoptera (Formicidae) had the highest frequency of prey items, found in 36 stomachs.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Aquaculture disease management and microbiota"]

Insect fauna including unrecorded species in Ulleungdo, South Korea
Ulleungdo harbours a unique ecosystem owing to its isolation from the mainland alongside its maritime climate. The island, formed via volcanic activity, is the largest island in the East Sea of Korea and retains a primeval forest. The ecosystems are being destroyed owing to increasing human activity on the island. Therefore, through the investigation of the insect fauna of Ulleungdo, we tried to provide information that can be the basis for understanding the island ecology of Ulleungdo. This survey was conducted four times between April and October in 2020 at Seonginbong.The findings of the survey regarding insect fauna at Seonginbong, Ulleungdo included 10 orders, 105 families, 216 genera and 212 species, of which 12 families, two subfamilies, 13 genera and 74 species were previously unrecorded. The data have been registered in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF; www.GBIF.org).
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Robber flies and hover flies (Insecta, Diptera, Asilidae and Syrphidae) in beech forests of the central Apennines: a contribution to the inventory of insect biodiversity in Italian State Nature Reserves
The present paper describes a sampling-event dataset on species belonging to two families of Diptera (Syrphidae and Asilidae) collected between 2012 and 2019 in two Italian beech forests located in the central Apennines. The reference dataset consists of an annotated checklist and has been published on Zenodo. Syrphidae and Asilidae are two widespread and key ecological groups, including predator, pollinator and saproxylic species. Despite their pivotal role in both natural and man-made ecosystems, these families are still poorly known in terms of local distribution and open-access sampling-event data are rare in Italy.This open-access dataset includes 2,295 specimens for a total of 21 Asilidae and 65 Syrphidae species. Information about the collection (e.g. place, date, methods applied, collector) and the identification (e.g. species name, author, taxon ID) of the species is provided. Given the current biodiversity crisis, the publication of checklists, sampling-event data and datasets on insect communities in open-access repositories is highly recommended, as it represents the opportunity to share biodiversity information amongst different stakeholders. Moreover, such data are also a valuable source of information for nature reserve managers responsible for monitoring the conservation status of protected and endangered species and habitats and for evaluating the effects of conservation actions over time.
["insect diversity"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

First record of the genus Pectapalochrus Tshernyshev, 2016 (Coleoptera, Malachiidae) from China
Pectapalochrus Tshernyshev, 2016 is a small genus belonging to the tribe Apalochrini in the family Malachiidae (Coleoptera, Cleroidea), with four currently known species: P. omega (Evers, 1965) from Mongolia, P. armenus (Iablokoff-Khnzorian, 1978) from Armenia, P. pictus (Motschulsky, 1860) from Russia and P. pectinicornis (Erichson, 1840) from Russia and Mongolia.Pectapalochrus Tshernyshev, 2016 is newly recorded from China upon the discovery of P. omega (Evers, 1965) from Ningxia Autonomous Region. The morphological characters of the adult are re-described in detail with illustrations of external appearance and relevant characters.

A new species of Dictyochaeta (Sordariomycetes, Chaetosphaeriales, Chaetosphaeriaceae) from freshwater habitats in China
Freshwater fungi refer to the fungi that depend on the freshwater habitats for the whole life cycle or part of their life cycle. In this context, a new aquatic hyphomycete was isolated from decaying wood in a freshwater habitat in Jiangxi Province, China.Dictyochaeta jiangxiensis sp. nov., a new aquatic hyphomycete, is characterised by its unbranched, septate, base-fertile conidiophores with multisepta and single phialide at the apex, brown, sterile seta, monophialidic, subcylindrical conidiogenous cells narrowing below the funnel-shaped collarette, hyaline, unicellular, thin-walled, smooth, guttulate, falcate to subclavate conidia narrowly rounded at both ends with hair-like appendages. Phylogenetically, the new species Dictyochaeta jiangxiensis clustered together with Dictyochaeta brevis MFLU 19-0216 in a well-supported clade, but formed a separate branch. In order to better define the taxonomic status of the new species, a phylogenetic tree of most closely-related taxa in Chaetosphaeriaceae was established, based on multi-locus sequences (ITS and LSU). The novel species is described and illustrated. Newly-generated molecular data of Dictyochaeta jiangxiensis is also provided.
["dematiaceous hyphomycete"]

Assessing the effects of climate change on arthropod abundance in Azorean pastures: PASTURCLIM project's baseline monitoring data
The data we present are part of the project PASTURCLIM (Impact of climate change on pasture’s productivity and nutritional composition in the Azores). The project aims to assess the consequences of climate change (e.g. temperature increase) on the grass production and its quality for forage, as well as to assess changes in the arthropod communities associated with the Azorean intensive pastures. An in situ experiment was set up using Open Top Chambers (OTCs), in order to simulate an increasing of temperature (average of +1.2ºC) on pastures. In this contribution, we present the data relative to the arthropod sampling.We provide an inventory of all arthropods recorded inside OTCs and in control plots in three intensively managed pastures dominated by grasses in Terceira Island (Azores): two of them dominated by ryegrass, Lolium multiflorum Lam. (Poaceae), located respectively at 186 m and 301 m above sea level; and one field dominated by common velvetgrass, Holcus lanatus L. (Poaceae), located at an altitude of 385 m.A total of 41351 specimens were collected. Organisms collected belong to four classes, 15 orders, 60 families and 171 species/morphospecies (including 34 taxa identified only at order, family or genus level). Therefore, for only 137 taxa, we have a scientific name associated (n = 38918). A total of 75% of the species (n = 129 species) are considered introduced (including all the species with indeterminate colonisation status that are possibly also exotic species (n = 7622)), representing 71% of the total abundance (n = 29664 specimens). A total of 19% of the species (n = 33 species) are considered native non-endemic representing 28% of the total abundance (n = 11608 specimens). Only one endemic species was sampled, the wolf spider Pardosa acorensis Simon, 1883 (1% of the species), representing 0.2% of the total abundance (n = 79 specimens). Spiders (5056 specimens) and beetles (18310 specimens) were the dominant taxa representing, respectively, 20 and 78 morphospecies.Since the main aim of this study was to have a better knowledge on arthropod communities present in Azorean pastures under a simulated temperature increase, the principal novelty of this paper is the contribution with distribution and abundance data to a baseline knowledge on the future consequences of climate changes on arthropod communities in Azorean pastures.
["arthropods"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

A new species of Siamspinops Dankittipakul & Corronca, 2009 from Guizhou, China (Araneae, Selenopidae)
The wall crab spider genus Siamspinops Dankittipakul & Corronca, 2009 contains eight species restricted to South and Southeast Asia, of which two are recorded from China.A new species, Siamspinops yejiei sp. n., is diagnosed and described based on both sexes from Foding Mountain National Nature Reserve, Guizhou, China. Diagnostic photos of the habitus and copulatory organs and a distributional map are provided.

First national record of Microhyla hmongorum Hoang, Nguyen, Phan, Pham, Ninh, Wang, Jiang, Ziegler and Nguyen, 2022 (Anura, Microhylidae, Microhyla) in China
To date, 10 species of the genus Microhyla have been recorded in China, of which six were distributed in Yunnan Province. Microhyla hmongorum Hoang, Nguyen, Phan, Pham, Ninh, Wang, Jiang, Ziegler, and Nguyen, 2022 was also speculated to be distributed in Xishuangbana, Yunnan Province, China. However, there is no evidence of documentation of M. hmongorum.We report the first country record of Microhyla hmongorum, based on specimens collected from Yunnan border region. Morphologically, the specimen was consistent with the original descriptions of M. hmongorum. Phylogenetically, the sequences of the specimens from China clustered with the sequence of type specimens of M. hmongorum from Vietnam, with uncorrected pairwise distances of 0.9% at the 16S gene fragment analysed. Therefore, we report M. hmongorum as a new record species in China.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control"]

A new semi-slug of the genus Microparmarion from Brunei, discovered, described and DNA-barcoded on citizen-science 'taxon expeditions' (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Ariophantidae)
During citizen-science expeditions to the Ulu Temburong National Park, Brunei, several individuals were collected of a semi-slug species of the genus Microparmarion that, based on morphology and in-the-field DNA-barcoding, was found to be an undescribed species.In this paper, we describe Microparmarion sallehi Wu, Ezzwan & Hamdani, n. sp., after field centre supervisor Md Salleh Abdullah Bat. We provide details on the external and internal reproductive morphology, the shell and the ecology of the type locality, as well as a diagnosis comparing it with related species. DNA barcodes were generated for five individuals and used for a phylogenetic reconstruction. Microparmarion sallehi sp. n. and M. exquadratus Schilthuizen et al., 2019 so far are the only Bornean species of the genus that live in lowland forest; other species are found in montane forests.

A new trapdoor spider of Cyclocosmia Ausserer, 1871 from southern China (Araneae, Halonoproctidae)
The genus Cyclocosmia Ausserer, 1871 previously included ten species from North America and Asia, six of which have been recorded from China.A new species, Cyclocosmia ruyi Yu & Zhang sp. n., is described and diagnosed, based on both sexes from Guangxi Province, China. Morphological characters for the early stages of juveniles of the new species are also provided.
["Opisthosomal disc"]

Understorey bird assemblages in selected environmentally sensitive areas (ESA) of Selangor, Peninsular Malaysia
Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) refer to areas that are of critical importance in terms of ecosystem services such as goods, services and life-support systems, such as water purification, pest control and erosion regulation. In addition, they also refer to areas that harbour the wealth of the nation’s biodiversity. However, the classification of ESA in Malaysia is incomprehensible and lacks weightage on biological elements as the current classification is more centred on physical attributes. In order to enhance the existing classification of ESA by introducing biological elements, biological data are urgently required, especially for forest reserves and protected habitat. Hence, we conducted understorey birds surveys in three ESA rank II permanent forest reserves, located in northern Selangor as baseline information to strengthen the ESA classification. The surveys were carried out using mist-netting in three 400 m × 200 m plots. Alpha diversity indices were calculated and showed a significant difference in terms of diversity, composition and biomass of understorey birds between investigated sites. Analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) showed that bird assemblages from forest reserves designated as ESA rank II in Selangor, based on disturbances levels, have weakly diverged and SIMPER analysis has identified six species that contributed to 60% of the differences amongst the bird assemblages. The finding provides the first insight into understorey birds of the study sites and the importance of conserving and preserving ESA of permanent forest reserves, especially the small and fragmented forests.
["avifauna"]
["Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Surveying Cory Shearwater colonies with camera traps and identifying potential invasive nest predators
The Azores holds the largest population of Cory's shearwater Calonectris borealis (Cory, 1881) (Aves, Procellariiformes, Procellariidae) in the world. One of the major threats of this species in the Azores is the predation by invasive mammals, which were introduced during European colonisation of the islands.The present study provides a dataset from a camera-trapping survey performed in colonies of Cory’s shearwater. The sampling was conducted between 7 April and 23 October 2019, covering the entire breeding season, in three colonies of the Terceira Island (Azores). A total of 32 nests were sampled using motion-triggered cameras. The aims of this study are to provide information about the ecological patterns of the Cory shearwater and to identify potential nest predators.Our results include a total of 6972 records of 15 species (nine species of birds, five of mammals and one reptile), of which 5414 records are of Cory’s shearwater, 478 of potential mammal predators and 1080 of another vertebrate species. Information about the biology of the species is also provided, as species circadian behaviour and habitat description.
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A survey on pupae parasitoid species of Dendrolimus houi (Lajonquiere) (Lepidoptera, Lasiocampidae) in China
Cryptomeria japonica var. sinensis Miquel in south China is currently overwhelmingly infested by a native caterpillar species, Dendrolimus houi (Lepidoptera), which is causing severe economic losses and ecological disasters in both planted and natural forests. Our results include report of five parasitoid species and eight parasitoid flies within D. houi and a dominant endoparasitoid species Kriechbaumerella dendrolimi, which attacks pupae of D. houi with a high parasitism rate. This result might be helpful to improve better identification and application in the future for potential biological control of D. houi in the forests of east Asia.
["Cryptomeria japonica"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Biodiversity of extant snails (Gastropoda, Mollusca) in the Pliocene Mountain Spur Natural Reserve (Northern Apennine, Italy)
To date, there is a substantial lack of information about gastropods from the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine in the north of Italy, notwithstanding the availability of detailed and comprehensive literature on this molluscan class. We present a gastropod fauna from the Natural Reserve of the Pliocene Mountain Spur: to our knowledge, this is the first investigation of the extant gastropod fauna in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine and one of the few in the Apennine's mountain chain as a whole.We describe a gastropod fauna comprised by 25 species, belonging to 18 genera and 10 families: the general figure which is emerging is an assemblage of European and Mediterranean-European species, with a single Asian contribution. Several shells were collected as embedded in sandy-clayey soils and showed fossilisation traces: therefore, we regard these shells as subfossil samples. Namely, subfossil shells are from the species Pomatias elegans, Granaria frumentum, Retinella olivetorum, Xerolenta obvia obvia, Oxychilus cf. draparnaudi, Monacha cartusiana and Monacha cantiana. The present checklist is the first report in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine and Emilia-Romagna areas for six taxa: Morlina glabra glabra, Oxychilius alliarius, Xerosecta cespitum, Fruticicola fruticum, Xerogyra spadae and Xerolenta obvia obvia.
["Pliocene Mountain Spur"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

The complete mitochondrial genome of Hyotissa sinensis (Bivalvia, Ostreoidea) indicates the genetic diversity within Gryphaeidae
Different from the true oyster (family Ostreidae), the molecular diversity of the gryphaeid oyster (family Gryphaeidae) has never been sufficiently investigated. In the present study, the complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of Hyotissa sinensis was sequenced and compared with those of other ostreoids. The total length of H. sinensis mtDNA is 30,385 bp, encoding 12 protein-coding-genes (PCGs), 26 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes and two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The nucleotide composition and codon usage preference of H. sinensis mtDNA is similar to that of H. hyotis within the same genus. On the other hand, the presence of three trnM and three trnL genes of H. sinensis was not detected neither in H. hyotis nor other ostroid species. Another unique character of H. sinensis mtDNA is that both rrnS and rrnL have a nearly identical duplication. The PCG order of H. sinensis is identical to H. hyotis and the two congener species also share an identical block of 12 tRNA genes. The tRNA rearrangements mostly happen in the region from Cox1 to Nad3, the same area where the duplicated genes are located. The rearrangements within Gryphaeidae could be explained by a "repeat-random loss model". Phylogenetic analyses revealed Gryphaeidae formed by H. sinensis + H. hyotis as sister to Ostreidae, whereas the phylogenetic relationship within the latter group remains unresolved. The present study indicated the mitogenomic diversity within Gryphaeidae and could also provide important data for future better understanding the gene order rearrangements within superfamily Ostreoidea.
["Mitochondrial genome"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Geastrum suae sp. nov. (Geastraceae, Basidiomycota) a new species from Yunnan Province, China
Geastrum is the largest genus of Geastraceae and is widely distributed all over the world. Four specimens which belong to Geastrum were collected during our scientific expedition to Cangshan Mountain, Yunnan, China. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis, a new species was introduced.Geastrum suae is characterised by its large basidiomata (height 35–70 mm, diameter 18–37 mm) with long stipe (height 10–45 mm), smooth pink exoperidium and sessile globose endoperidial body. Phylogenetic analysis has been carried out, based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and large subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid (nrLSU) sequence data. The illustration and description for the new taxa are provided.
["Geastraceae"]

Standardised inventories of lepidopterans and odonates from Serra da Estrela Natural Park (Portugal) - setting the scene for mountain biodiversity monitoring
Mountain insect biodiversity is unique, but is menaced by different drivers, particularly climate and land-use changes. In mainland Portugal, the highest mountain - Serra da Estrela - is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots, being classified as Natural Park since 1976. Many lepidopteran and odonate species, including rare and protected species, are known to occur in Serra da Estrela, but basic knowledge on their abundance, distribution and ecology is still lacking. Standardised sampling of these communities is crucial to provide valuable biological information to support short-term decision-making for conservation management, setting simultaneously the standards for mountain biodiversity monitoring aiming to tackle the effects of environmental change in the long-term.This study reports novel information on lepidopteran and odonate species diversity, distribution and abundance from Serra da Estrela Natural Park (Portugal). Seventy-two lepidopteran and 26 odonate species were sampled in this protected area, including the first findings of Apatura ilia (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775), Macromia splendens (Pictet, 1843) and Vanessa virginiensis (Drury, 1773). New populations of Euphydrias aurinia (Rottemburg, 1775) and Oxygastra curtisii (Dale, 1834), protected species under the Habitats Directive, were found in this Natural Park and novel distribution and ecological data were collected for most species, including several rare species and subspecies [e.g. Aeshna juncea (Linnaeus, 1758), Coenonympha glycerion iphioides Staudinger, 1870, Cyaniris semiargus (Rottemburg, 1775) and Sympetrum flaveolum (Linnaeus, 1758)]. All data were collected using standardised sampling allowing its use as a baseline for biodiversity monitoring in Serra da Estrela.
["butterflies"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New relevant chorological and conservation data on Carex (Cyperaceae) and Hypericum (Hypericaceae) from Ecuador
Knowledge of Carex L. (true sedges) and Hypericum L. (St. John's wort) in the Neotropics is fragmentary.As a result of a fieldwork campaign in Ecuador and revision of herbarium collections (K, QCA and QCNE), we present here relevant records of twelve Carex (Cyperaceae) and four Hypericum (Hypericaceae) species. Regarding Carex, we present the novel report for South America of C. aztecica, as well as the first Ecuadorian records for C. brehmeri, C. collumanthus, C. fecunda, C. melanocystis and C. punicola. The three later records have additional biogeographical significance, as they represent the new northern limit of these species. We also include observations for another five species included in the Ecuadorian Red List of Endemic Plants. As a result, the list of native Carex reported for Ecuador would now include 52 taxa. With regard to Hypericum, we include the new report of H. sprucei for the province of Bolívar, and the confirmation of the presence of three rare species (H. acostanum, H. matangense, H. prietoi) in their type localities, although with extremely low population sizes. We discuss their conservation status and implications.
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Archaeology and Natural History", "Plant and animal studies"]

Description and distribution of three morphotypes of the Eucyclops serrulatus group (Crustacea, Copepoda, Cyclopoida) from Algerian water bodies
Examination of Eucyclops populations coming from Algerian water bodies and identified as Eucyclops cf. serrulatus showed three morphotypes, based on morphometric characters and microcharacters. Morphotype 1 was the most abundant, collected in the east and the west of Algeria. Morphotype 2 was sampled in the south of the country, characterised by posterolaterally elongated thoracic segments and the fourth thoracic segment bearing cilia on its lateral angles. Morphotype 3 was found in a small temporary pond in the north of the country and was the smallest one. Other differences were observed on surface microcharacters of antenna basipodite, coxopodite and intercoxal plate of the fourth leg. The characters of the most widespread morphotype (morphotype1) were stable in all localities despite the fact that these were located in two geographically separated regions (eastern and western Algeria).Three morphotypes of Eucyclops serrulatus group (Fisher, 1851) (Crustacea, Copepoda, Cyclopoida) from Algerian water bodies were identified. The characters of the most widespread morphotype (morphotype 1) were stable in all localities despite the fact that these were located in two geographically separated regions (eastern and western Algeria).
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

The InBIO Barcoding Initiative Database: contribution to the knowledge on DNA barcodes of cuckoo wasps, with the description of new species from the Iberian Peninsula (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae)
DNA barcoding technologies have provided a powerful tool for the fields of ecology and systematics. Here, we present a part of the InBIO Barcoding Initiative Database: contribution to the knowledge on DNA barcodes of cuckoo wasps (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae) dataset representing 144 specimens and 103 species, covering approximately 44% of the Iberian and 21% of the European fauna. The InBIO Barcoding Initiative (IBI – DNA Barcoding Portuguese terrestrial invertebrate biodiversity) aims to fill the barcoding gap for the terrestrial invertebrate taxa. All DNA extractions are deposited in the IBI collection at CIBIO, Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources and specimens are deposited in the University of Mons collection (Belgium) and in the Natur-Museum in Lucerne (Switzerland).This dataset increases the knowledge on the DNA barcodes and distribution of 102 species of cuckoo wasps. A total of 52 species, from 11 different genera, were new additions to the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD), with DNA barcodes for another 44 species added from under-represented taxa in BOLD. All specimens have their DNA barcodes publicly accessible through the BOLD online database. Nine cuckoo wasp species are newly recorded for Portugal. Additionally, two new species for science are described: Chrysis crossi Rosa, sp. nov. from southern Portugal and Hedychridium calcarium Rosa, sp. nov. from eastern Spain. Several taxonomic changes are proposed and Hedychrum rutilans Dahlbom, 1845 is found to consist of two different taxa that can be found in sympatry, Hedychrum rutilans s. str. and Hedychrum viridaureum Tournier, 1877 stat. nov. Stilbum westermanni Dahlbom, 1845 stat. nov. is confirmed as distinct from Stilbum calens (Fabricius, 1781), with the latter species not confirmed as present in Iberia; barcoded Stilbum material from Australia is distinct and represents Stilbum amethystium (Fabricius, 1775) sp. resurr.; Portuguese material identified as Hedychridium chloropygum Buysson, 1888 actually belongs to Hedychridium caputaureum Trautmann & Trautmann, 1919, the first confirmed record of this species from Iberia. Philoctetes parvulus (Dahlbom, 1845) is confirmed to be a synonym of Philoctetes punctulatus (Dahlbom, 1845). Chrysis lusitanica Bischoff, 1910 is confirmed as a valid species. Chrysis hebraeica Linsenmaier, 1959 stat. nov. is raised to species status.
["Portugal"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Phylogenetic relationships of three rockfish: Sebastes melanops, Sebastes ciliatus and Sebastes variabilis (Scorpaeniformes, Scorpaenidae) based on complete mitochondrial genome sequences
We characterise the complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of Black rockfish (Sebastes melanops Girard, 1856; n = 1), Dark rockfish (Sebastes ciliatus Tilesius, 1813; n = 2) and Dusky rockfish (Sebastes variabilis Pallas, 1814; n = 2). The lengths of the mitogenomes are 16,405 bp for S. melanops, 16,400 bp for both S. ciliatus and 16,400 and 16,401 bp for S. variabilis. We examine these species’ phylogenetic relationships using 35 previously published rockfish mitogenomes, representing 27 species. We find that S. melanops is sister to a clade consisting of S. rubrivinctus, S. nigrocinctus, S. umbrosus and S. oculatus, whereas S. ciliatus and S. variabilis are sister to a clade consisting of S. norvegicus, S. viviparus, S. mentella and S. fasciatus. We were unable to separate S. ciliatus and S. variabilis using their complete mitogenomes.
["Sebastes"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

An acoustic detection dataset of birds (Aves) in montane forests using a deep learning approach
Long-term monitoring is needed to understand the statuses and trends of wildlife communities in montane forests, such as those in Yushan National Park (YSNP), Taiwan. Integrating passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) with an automated sound identifier, a long-term biodiversity monitoring project containing six PAM stations, was launched in YSNP in January 2020 and is currently ongoing. SILIC, an automated wildlife sound identification model, was used to extract sounds and species information from the recordings collected. Animal vocal activity can reflect their breeding status, behaviour, population, movement and distribution, which may be affected by factors, such as habitat loss, climate change and human activity. This massive amount of wildlife vocalisation dataset can provide essential information for the National Park's headquarters on resource management and decision-making. It can also be valuable for those studying the effects of climate change on animal distribution and behaviour at a regional or global scale.To our best knowledge, this is the first open-access dataset with species occurrence data extracted from sounds in soundscape recordings by artificial intelligence. We obtained seven bird species for the first release, with more bird species and other taxa, such as mammals and frogs, to be updated annually. Raw recordings containing over 1.7 million one-minute recordings collected between the years 2020 and 2021 were analysed and SILIC identified 6,243,820 vocalisations of seven bird species in 439,275 recordings. The automatic detection had a precision of 0.95 and the recall ranged from 0.48 to 0.80. In terms of the balance between precision and recall, we prioritised increasing precision over recall in order to minimise false positive detections. In this dataset, we summarised the count of vocalisations detected per sound class per recording which resulted in 802,670 occurrence records. Unlike data from traditional human observation methods, the number of observations in the Darwin Core "organismQuantity" column refers to the number of vocalisations detected for a specific bird species and cannot be directly linked to the number of individuals.We expect our dataset will be able to help fill the data gaps of fine-scale avian temporal activity patterns in montane forests and contribute to studies concerning the impacts of climate change on montane forest ecosystems on regional or global scales.
["passive acoustic monitoring"]
["Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Music and Audio Processing", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

New records of parasitic copepod (Crustacea, Siphonostomatoida, Pennellidae) found on the body surface of two cetacean species in China
Pennella balaenoptera Koren & Danielssen, 1877 (Crustacea, Siphonostomatoida, Pennellidae) is so far known as the largest copepod species and has only been found as a parasite on marine mammals. Previous studies on parasitic copepods in China only focused on those found on economic fishes, no records of P. balaenoptera having ever been reported before.A Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni Anderson, 1879) and a pygmy sperm whale [Kogia breviceps (Blainville, 1838)] were respectively stranded on the eastern and southern coast of China in 2021 and 2022. A total of eight parasitic copepods found on their body surface were sampled and examined. The parasites were identified as Pennella balaenoptera, based on morphological characteristics and measurements. Descriptions and photomicrographs of this newly-recorded species from China are given in the present study.
["new distribution"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine animal studies overview", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Note on the genus Serendib Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001, with the description of a new species (Araneae, Corinnidae, Castianeirinae)
Prior to this study, the genus Serendib Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 has been discovered in Indonesia, Thailand and Laos and comprises three species: S. muadai Jäger, Nophaseud & Praxaysombath, 2012, S. suthepica Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 and S. volans Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001.The genus Serendib Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 is reviewed. A new species, S. hispida sp. n. (male and female), representing the first record of genus Serendib from Malaysia, is described. Descriptions and illustrations of the females of S. volans (Malaysia) and S. suthepica (China) are also provided. The latter represents the first record of the genus in China.

When details matter: Integrative revision of Holarctic Coelophthinia Edwards (Diptera, Mycetophilidae), including mapping of its mitogenome, leads to the description of four new pseudocryptic species
The small genus Coelophthinia Edwards, 1941 of the subfamily Gnoristinae (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) is so far known to harbour four species from the Palaearctic, Nearctic and Neotropical Regions. Extensive DNA barcoding of fungus gnats of the family Mycetophilidae through the International Barcode of Life project (iBOL) have initiated integrative studies resulting in taxonomic upgrades and a better understanding of many species and their delimitation. The opportunity was also taken to describe the mitogenome of a member of Coelophthinia for the first time.The integrative studies give evidence for splitting the European species C. thoracica Edwards, 1941 into three different species. Four new species are described from the USA, Japan and the Nordic Region in Europe, Coelophthinia cirra Kerr sp. n., Coelophthinia itoae Kurina sp. n., Coelophthinia lata Kjaerandsen sp. n. and Coelophthinia loraasi Kjaerandsen sp. n., raising the number of Holarctic species from two to six. The mitogenome of Coelophthinia loraasi sp. n. is described and analysed.
["Coelophthinia"]

Checklist of the fish fauna of the Munim River Basin, Maranhão, north-eastern Brazil
The Maranhão State harbours great fish diversity, but some areas are still undersampled or little known, such as the Munim River Basin in the northeast of the State. This lack of knowledge is critical when considering anthropogenic impacts on riverine systems especially in the face of major habitat destruction. These pressing threats mean that a comprehensive understanding of diversity is critical and fish checklists extremely relevant. Therefore, the present study provides a checklist of the fish species found in the Munim River Basin, Maranhão State, north-eastern Brazil, based on collected specimens.A total of 123 species were recorded for the Munim River Basin, with only two non-native species, Oreochromis niloticus and Colossoma macropomum, showing that the fish assemblage has relatively high ecological integrity. In addition, 29 species could not be identified at the species level, indicating the presence of species that are probably new to science in the Basin. A predominance of species belonging to the fish orders Characiformes and Siluriformes, with Characidae being recovered as the most species-rich family (21 species) agrees with the general pattern for river basins in the Neotropical Region. The total fish diversity was estimated by extensive fieldwork, including several sampling gears, carried out in different seasons (dry and rainy) and exploring different environments with both daily and nocturnal sampling, from the Basin's source to its mouth. A total of 84 sites were sampled between 2010 and 2022, resulting in 12 years of fieldwork. Fish assemblages were distinct in the Estuary and Upper river basin sections and more similar in the Lower and Middle sections indicating environmental filtering processes. Species were weakly nested across basin sections, but unique species were found in each section (per Simpsons Index). High variability of species richness in the Middle river basin section is likely due to microhabitat heterogeneity supporting specialist fish communities.

Spiders (Araneae) of the northeast of the Luhansk Oblast (Ukraine)
The dataset contains records of spiders collected in the northeast of Luhansk Oblast in the periods 1982-1989, 2009-2011 and 2021. It aimed at the inventory of spider fauna of the Striltsivskyi Steppe Nature Reserve and species distribution in the main grassland and forest habitats of the region. The research was also concerned with the impact of conservation management ‒ hay mowing or strict protection and man-induced steppe fire on spider communities.The dataset includes records from seven geographical localities in the northeast of Luhansk Oblast with 1,955 occurrences of 6662 individuals. For the first time, it provides detailed information about spider species composition, phenology and habitat distiribution within the study area, including two conservation areas and the primary material on the studies on the impact of hay making and steppe fire on spider communities. All the records of 246 spider species with georeferencing were published in GBIF.
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

SLAM Project - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forest of Azores: VI - Inventory of Arthropods of Azorean Urban Gardens
The data we present are part of the long-term project SLAM (Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forest of Azores) aiming to assess the impact of biodiversity erosion drivers on Azorean native biota, using long-term ecological data. Additionally to SLAM (Sea, Land and Air Malaise) traps, nocturnal Active Aerial Searching and nocturnal Foliage Beating methods were used to sample, between 2017 and 2018, the arthropod biodiversity on two historical urban gardens of Azores, the “Jardim Botânico” of Faial Island and “Jardim Duque da Terceira” of Terceira Island.We provided an inventory of arthropods collected between 2017 and 2018 in two urban gardens of Faial and Terceira Islands (Azores). A total of 8342 specimens were collected, in which 7493 specimens were identified to species/subspecies level (Faial n = 3296; Terceira n = 4197). The identified specimens belong to four classes, 15 orders, 80 families and 159 species and subspecies of arthropods. A total of 84 species and subspecies are considered introduced (n = 2454 specimens), 50 native non-endemic (n = 4444 specimens), eight endemic (n = 217) and 17 have an indeterminate origin (n = 378). This study also revises the arthropod inventory of these Azorean gardens, by adding/updating the taxonomic names of three orders, ten families and 22 species.
["arthropods"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Potamophylax humoinsapiens sp. n. (Trichoptera, Limnephilidae), a new species from the Sharr Mountains, Republic of Kosovo
The Sharr Mountains are one of the most important hotspots of terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity in the Balkan Peninsula, with many endemic and rare species. The caddisfly studies in this area increased during the past years, although insufficiently investigated areas still remain.In this paper, we describe a new species, Potamophylax humoinsapiens sp. n. from the Sharr Mountains in the Republic of Kosovo, which is morphologically closest to Potamophylax idliri Ibrahimi, Bilalli & Kučinić, 2022 and Potamophylax juliani Kumanski, 1999. The males of the new species differ from all known species of the Potamophylax winneguthi Species Group by their uniquely-shaped parameres, which are long, bulbous in their basal half and thin in the remaining length, with a bunch of very thin and long, hair-like spines, grouped uniformly at the apex. The new species further differs from its most similar congeners by its very wide distance between the dorsal and ventral edges of the apical part of inferior appendages in lateral view. The new species was found at three localities from 1416 to 1505 m a.s.l.Similar to the other species of the Potamophylax winneguthi Species Group, which have very narrow distribution areas, we posit that Potamophylax humoinsapiens sp. n. is a microendemic of the Sharr Mountains. The new species is the second known caddisfly species occurring only in the Kosovan part of the Sharr Mountains.

Disclisioprocta edmondsii (Butler, 1882) comb. nov. (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae)
The generic assignment of the geometrid moth Xanthorhoe edmondsii (Butler, 1882) (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae), originally described under Hypochroma Guenée, [1858], a junior homonym of Hypochroma Herrich-Schäffer, [1855] (Geometridae, Ennominae), is assessed using genitalia morphology and analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences.Morphological characters revealed closeness to the type species of Disclisioprocta Wallengren, 1861 (Larentiinae). In agreement with morphology, the molecular analysis clustered X. edmondsii with species of Disclisioprocta in a well-supported monophyletic group distantly related to members of Xanthorhoe Hübner, [1825]. Accordingly, Disclisioprocta edmondsii (Butler, 1882) comb. nov. is proposed.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Complete mitochondrial genome of Rectoris luxiensis (Teleostei, Cyprinidae): characterisation and phylogenetic implications
Mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) are widely used in scientific studies on phylogenetic relationships, molecular evolution and population genetics. Here, we sequenced and analysed the mitogenome of Rectoris luxiensis, a Yangtze River drainage endemic, but threatened cyprinid fish of Labeoninae. The complete mitogenome of R. luxiensis was 16,592 bp in length, encoding 13 protein coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs) and a control region. The mitogenome showed a high A+T content (58.2%) and a positive AT-skew (0.10) and negative GC-skew (–0.25) base composition pattern. All the 13 PCGs were found to start with ATG codons, except for the COXI, in which GTG was the start codon. The ratio of non-synonymous and synonymous substitutions (Ka/Ks) of all the 13 PCGs were less than 1, indicating negative or purifying selection evolved in these genes. Comparatively speaking, the evolutionary rate of ATP8 was the fastest and ND4L was the slowest. All tRNAs could fold into a typical cloverleaf secondary structure, except tRNASer1 that lacked a dihydrouridine arm. Phylogenetic relationships, based on the PCGs dataset of 91 mitogenomes of Labeoninae, showed that R. luxiensis grouped with Rectoris posehensis and they formed a monophyletic Rectoris. However, many non-monophyletic genera were revealed in labeoninae fishes, such as Cirrhinus, Decorus, Garra, Labeo and Pseudocrossocheilus, which indicated that the validities of some traditional genera required a further check. This study reported the complete mitogenome of R. luxiensis for the first time, which provided valuable data for future molecular evolution and conservation related studies of Rectoris and other species in Labeoninae.
["Labeoninae"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Satellite tag derived data from two Antarctic blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus intermedia) tagged in the east Antarctic sector of the Southern Ocean
Satellite tags were deployed on two Antarctic blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus intermedia) in the east Antarctic sector of the Southern Ocean as part of the International Whaling Commission’s Southern Ocean Research Partnership initiative. The satellite tracks generated are the first and currently, the only, satellite telemetry data that exist for this critically endangered species. These data provide valuable insights into the movements of Antarctic blue whales on their Antarctic feeding ground. The data were collected between February and April 2013 and span a 110° longitudinal range.This dataset is the first and only detailed movement data that exist for this critically endangered species. As such, this dataset provides the first measures of movement rates (distances travelled, speeds) and movement behaviour (distinguishing transit behaviour from area restricted search behaviour) within the Southern Ocean. These movement-based measures are critical to the ongoing management of Antarctic blue whales as they recover from commercial whaling as they provide insight into foraging behaviour, habitat use, population structure and overlap with anthropogenic threats.
["satellite telemetry"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Arctic and Russian Policy Studies", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

A dataset of bird distributions in zoogeographical regions of China
China, the largest country in Asia, has a land area of approximately 9.6 million square kilometres. There are 1481 bird species (following the taxonomy of IOC World Bird List version 12.1) recorded in two zoogeographical realms, seven regions and 19 subregions in the country. From 1955 to 2017, six authoritative monographs were published, which recorded the distribution area for all bird species in China and were widely quoted by research papers and field guides. This massive amount of data could be used to address many hot topics in ornithology, biogeography and ecology. However, rapid changes in the taxonomic status and different schemes of zoogeographical regionalisation in these six monographs provided limits to the utilisation of these valuable data.By integrating the data from the six monographs, we presented an open-access dataset on the occurrences and residence types of all Chinese bird species in zoogeographical regions over the past 60 years. The taxonomic statuses for these species were determined following the IOC World Bird List version 12.1 and the zoogeographical regions were based on the updated scheme. These data provide valuable information for the research in bird ecology and conservation biology.
["birds"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

An updated checklist of Azorean arthropods (Arthropoda)
The Azores is a remote oceanic archipelago of nine islands which belongs to the Macaronesia biogeographical region hosting a unique biodiversity. The present Azorean landscape is strongly modified by the presence of man and only in small areas, where the soil or climate was too rough, have primitive conditions remained unchanged. Despite the fact that most of the Azorean native habitats are now lost, a large number of endemic species are still present and need urgent conservation. The present checklist of terrestrial and freshwater arthropods of the Azores Archipelago is based on all known published literature. The main goal of this work is to list, as rigorously as possible, all the known terrestrial and freshwater arthropods of the Azores. In this way, we are contributing to solve the ‘Linnaean’ shortfall, i.e. an incomplete taxonomic description of species-level diversity and the Wallacean Biodiversity Shortfall, the incomplete species distribution knowledge.The checklist includes new records of arthropods at island and archipelago levels that were published in the last twelve years. Compared to the last checklist of Azorean arthropods (Borges et al. 2010b), a total of 217 taxa (species and subspecies) are added.Currently, the total number of terrestrial and freshwater arthropod species and subspecies in the Azores is estimated to be 2420 taxa belonging to 14 classes, 53 orders, 440 families, 1556 genera, 2400 species and 149 individual subspecies.The most diverse orders of Azorean arthropods are: Coleoptera (585 taxa), Diptera (423 taxa), Hemiptera (338 taxa), Hymenoptera (163 taxa), Lepidoptera (159 taxa) and Araneae (133 taxa).A total of 276 endemic taxa are currently known (232 species and 44 subspecies), belonging to eight classes and 22 orders. São Miguel, Terceira and Pico are the islands with higher number of endemic species and subspecies. In the Azores, the number of native non-endemic taxa is 793 taxa, totalling 1069 indigenous taxa. Compared to the other nearest Macaronesian archipelagos (Madeira and Canaries), the Azorean arthropod fauna is characterised by a lower percentage of endemism (endemics/indigenous: 26% in Azores, 47% in Madeira Archipelago and 42% in Canary Islands) and a high proportion of exotic introduced taxa (39% in Azores, 19% in Madeira Archipelago and 8% in Canary Islands).Based on recent IUCN Red-listing of Azorean arthropods, a large fraction of the endemic taxa is under high threat.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A re-survey in 2019-2021 of winter bird communities in the Oregon Coast Range, USA, initially surveyed in 1968-1970
Long-term changes in bird populations during winter are poorly evaluated in many parts of the world. We re-surveyed forest bird communities during winter, 2019-2021, in seven large plots originally surveyed from 1968 through to 1970, near Corvallis, Oregon, USA by Stanley Anderson, a graduate student at Oregon State University in the 1960s. Anderson counted birds and measured forest plant communities within the forests dominated by Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) in the Coast Range Mountain foothills. His thesis included plot locations, summaries of vegetation characteristics and point estimates of bird densities for each plot. To our knowledge, the Anderson data represent the oldest structured survey of Pacific Northwest winter forest bird communities with density estimates. Given the paucity of similar data, we re-surveyed his plots after aligning methods with his and adding modern components (distance and time interval sampling) to facilitate comparisons of changes in abundances. We preserved more extensive metadata than were preserved from Anderson's surveys, including georeferenced point count survey locations to facilitate more precisely repeatable future re-surveys.Original surveys of winter bird populations in the Pacific Northwest, USA, based on georeferenced locations within seven large plots originally surveyed, 1968-1970. In addition to raw count data of all bird species detected, we include information from distance sampling and time-interval sampling methods. To our knowledge, this is one of the only structured surveys of winter forest bird populations in the Coast Range Mountains, USA.
["avian communities"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Fire effects on ecosystems", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

A new species of Lysiteles Simon, 1895 (Araneae, Thomisidae) from South China
Lysiteles Simon, 1895 is one of the largest taxa with small body size among the Thomisidae and is mainly distributed in East, South and Southeast Asia. Most of them are recorded from southern provinces of China, such as Jiangxi Province, including three species. However, all of them are only discovered from Jinggang Mountain National Nature Reserve in Jiangxi Province. But there are still other species remaining unknown which need to be surveyed from other areas in this Province.One Lysiteles species was collected from Nanfengmian National Nature Reserve in Jiangxi Province. Based on morphological characters, it was recognised as a new species and has been named as Lysiteles nanfengmian sp. n. It is described and illustrated with photographs and its distribution is also mapped.
["axonomy"]

SLAM Project - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forests of Azores: V - New records of terrestrial arthropods after ten years of SLAM sampling
A long-term study monitoring arthropods (Arthropoda) is being conducted since 2012 in the forests of Azorean Islands. Named "SLAM - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forest of Azores", this project aims to understand the impact of biodiversity erosion drivers in the distribution, abundance and diversity of Azorean arthropods. The current dataset represents arthropods that have been recorded using a total of 42 passive SLAM traps (Sea, Land and Air Malaise) deployed in native, mixed and exotic forest fragments in seven Azorean Islands (Flores, Faial, Pico, Graciosa, Terceira, São Miguel and Santa Maria). This manuscript is the fifth data-paper contribution, based on data from this long-term monitoring project.We targeted taxa for species identification belonging to Arachnida (excluding Acari), Chilopoda, Diplopoda, Hexapoda (excluding Collembola, Lepidoptera, Diptera and Hymenoptera (but including only Formicidae)). Specimens were sampled over seven Azorean Islands during the 2012-2021 period. Spiders (Araneae) data from Pico and Terceira Islands are not included since they have been already published elsewhere (Costa and Borges 2021, Lhoumeau et al. 2022). We collected a total of 176007 specimens, of which 168565 (95.7%) were identified to the species or subspecies level. For Araneae and some Hemiptera species, juveniles are also included in this paper, since the low diversity in the Azores allows a relatively precise species-level identification of this life-stage. We recorded a total of 316 named species and subspecies, belonging to 25 orders, 106 families and 260 genera. The ten most abundant species were mostly endemic or native non-endemic (one Opiliones, one Archaeognatha and seven Hemiptera) and only one exotic species, the Julida Ommatoiulus moreleti (Lucas, 1860). These ten species represent 107330 individuals (60%) of all sampled specimens and can be considered as the dominant species in the Azorean native forests for the target studied taxa. The Hemiptera were the most abundant taxa, with 90127 (50.4%) specimens. The Coleoptera were the most diverse with 30 (28.6%) families.We registered 72 new records for many of the islands (two for Flores, eight for Faial, 24 for Graciosa, 23 for Pico, eight for Terceira, three for São Miguel and four for Santa Maria). These records represent 58 species. None of them is new to the Azores Archipelago. Most of the new records are introduced species, all still with low abundance on the studied islands. This publication contributes to increasing the baseline information for future long-term comparisons of the arthropods of the studied sites and the knowledge of the arthropod fauna of the native forests of the Azores, in terms of species abundance, distribution and diversity throughout seasons and years.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Taxonomic notes on eleven species of the subfamily Cteninae (Araneae, Ctenidae) from Asia
The spider family Ctenidae Keyserling, 1877 has a worldwide distribution with 584 species belonging to 49 genera. Amongst these, 141 species are from Asia, including 130 species assigned to Cteninae Keyserling, 1877.Nine new species belonging to three genera of Cteninae are reported from Asia: Amauropelma krabi sp. n. (female; Krabi, Thailand), Am. phangnga sp. n. (male; Phang Nga, Thailand), Am. saraburi sp. n. (male and female; Saraburi, Thailand); Anahita medog sp. n. (male and female; Tibet, China); Bowie ninhbinh sp. n. (male; Ninh Binh, Vietnam) and B. vinhphuc sp. n. (male and female; Vinh Phuc, Vietnam) from the robustus-species group; B. borneo sp. n. (male; Sabah, Malaysia) from the chinagirl-species group; B. engkilili sp. n. (female; Engkilili, Malaysia); B. sabah sp. n. (male and female; Sabah, Malaysia) from the scarymonsters-species group. The male of An. popa Jäger & Minn, 2015 and the female of B. fascination Jäger, 2022 (robustus-species group) are described for the first time. B. fascination Jäger, 2022 is reported from China for the first time. In addition, the DNA barcodes of all the species in this study were obtained, except for B. vinhphuc sp. n.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Coccotorus beijingensis Lin et Li, 1990 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Curculioninae, Anthonomini) and its phylogenetic implications
Coccotorus beijingensis Lin et Li, 1990 belongs to Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Curculioninae, Anthonomini. It is a herbivorous insect that damages Celtis bungeana Blume (Ulmaceae) by affecting branch growth. The mitochondrial genome of C. beijingensis was sequenced and annotated to better identify C. beijingensis and related species. The total length of the C. beijingensis mitochondrial genome was 17,071 bp, contained 37 typical genes (13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes) and two control regions (total length: 2,292 bp). Mitochondrial genome composition, nucleotide composition and codon usage are similar to those of other sequenced Curculionidae mitogenomes. All protein-coding genes initiated with ATN and TTG codons and ended with TAA, TAG or incomplete stop codons (TA, T). In addition, analyses of pairwise genetic distances between individual PCGs in Curculionidae species showed that ATP8 was the least conserved gene, while COI was the most conserved. Twenty-one transfer RNAs had typical cloverleaf structures, while trnS1 lacked dihydrouridine (DHU) arms. ML and BI analyses, based on 13 PCGs and two rRNAs from ten species of Curculionidae, strongly support the relationships between C. beijingensis and species of the genus Anthonomus: ((An. eugenii+ An. rubi) + C. beijingensis + (An. pomorum+ An. rectirostris)) (BS = 100; PP = 1). Our phylogenetic analyses could mean that the genus Coccotorus should be sunk under Anthonomus, but more taxon sampling is needed to verify this result.
["mitochondrial genome"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

First record of the genus Aetius O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1897 from China, with description of a new species (Araneae, Corinnidae, Castianeirinae)
The genus Aetius O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1897 has been discovered in Sri lanka, India, Malaysia (Borneo), Thailand and Ivory Coast and comprises four species: A. bicuspidatus Yamasaki, 2020, A. decollatus O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1897, A. nocturnus Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 and A. tuberculatus (Haddad, 2013).The genus Aetius O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1897 is reported for the first time in China (Yunnan Province) and includes three species: one new species and two newly-recorded species. One new species is described, based on both sexes: A. maculatus sp. n. Additionally, A. bicuspidatus Yamasaki, 2020 and A. nocturnus Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001, are newly recorded from China, with photographs of habitus and genitalia being provided.

Two new Eresus species (Araneae, Eresidae) from Xinjiang, China
Eresidae C. L. Koch, 1845 contains nine genera and 102 species, of which 24 species belong to Eresus Walckenaer, 1805. Four species of the family are known from China: E. granosus Simon, 1895 (Beijing), E. kollari Rossi, 1846 (Hebei), E. lishizheni Lin, Marusik & Li, 2021 (Xinjiang) and Stegodyphus tibialis (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1869) (Yunnan).Two new species of Eresus are described from Xinjiang, China: Eresus da Lin & Li sp. n. and E. yukuni Lin & Li sp. n. Photos and morphological descriptions of new species are given.

Distribution of Ecnomus McLachlan, 1864 (Trichoptera, Ecnomidae) from the Lower Mekong River with a description of Ecnomus stungtrengensis new species
Trichoptera were surveyed from four different physiographic regions of the Lower Mekong River, including the Northern Highlands, the Khorat Plateau, the Tonle Sap Basin and the Mekong Delta in Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.Twenty-three species of the genus Ecnomus, including a new species, were identified and mapped. Ecnomus mammus Malicky & Chantaramongkol, 1993 is a common species which is found from Tonle Sab Basin and Mekong Delta. Ecnomus alkmene Malicky & Chantaramongkol, 1997, E. volovicus Malicky & Chantaramongkol, 1993 and Ecnomus quordaio Malicky, 1993 are the common species in the area of the Northern Highlands and the Khorat Plateau. Ecnomus plotin Malicky & Laudee 2010 is found in the Mekong Delta. Ecnomus triangularis Sun, 1997 is a new species record for Southeast Asia. In addition, E. stungtrengensis sp. n. is described and illustrated. The male genitalia of E. stungtrengensis sp. n. are clearly different from those of other species in the genus Ecnomus by the shape of superior appendages which are slender and bent downwards distally in lateral view.
["caddisflies"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

New occurrence records on the rodent species inhabiting Vietnam, based on Joint Russian-Vietnamese Tropical Research and Test Center genetic samples collection
Open access to occurrence records in a standardised format has strong potential applications for many kinds of ecological research and bioresources management, including the assessment of invasion risks, formulation of nature protection, biomedical and management plans in the context of global climate and land-use changes both in the short and long perspective. The accumulation and aggregation of data on the occurrence records of small mammals are relevant for the study of biogeography and for ecological surveys including construction of the spatial distribution and ecological niche modelling of species ' distributions in the context of global climate change. The author has created a dataset of 2408 rodents and tree shrews occurrence records from Vietnam, collected from November 2007 to May 2022. A number of zoologist colleagues also provided genetic samples. A considerable part of these data has been published previously in a number of papers; however, most of these data have yet to be presented. These records cover a significant part of the range of many rodent species in Southeast Asia and provide new data on their distribution. The data were obtained during a number of different field expeditions, where some animals were caught by the author and some were provided by other researchers, resulting in different accuracy levels of geographic coordinates and altitude estimates may range from 10 to 1000 metres in area and from 1 to 100 metres for elevation. A number of samples were genetically examined to avoid inconsistencies with the taxonomic identification. With the help of colleagues, the author created a set of georeferenced occurrence records, adapted to the controlled vocabulary of Darwin Core format datasets, removed duplicates and standardised the format of records using commonly-used unified data structure. This paper presents the resulting dataset of rodents (mostly of Muridae and Sciuridae) along with other small terrestrial species (Scandentia Tupaidae) occurrence records in the territory of Vietnam and Laos.Much of the distribution data are currently available as open source GBIF databases and potentially may be combined into a united framework for better data resolution. The dataset presented here combines occurrence records of many species over a significant part of their recent natural range, in Vietnam and Laos. The author presents a validated and comprehensive dataset of rodents' occurrence records, based on genetic samples collection compiled during 15 years working in Vietnam (from 2007 to date). Prior to this project, a considerable part of the information about Vietnamese rodents was not available to a wide range of researchers to use these spatial data for analyses by modern methods, for example, for analysis based on geographic information systems (GIS technologies). This dataset now is available for any researchers who use the data format prepared in accordance with Darwin Core standards.For different countries of Southeast Asia and beyond, there are a lot of additional occurrence records for a number of species listed here which may be combined, but a considerable part of them is still scattered over a number of separate literary sources, while another is still presented as maps, field notes and huge amount of museum zoological collections records. The final set was created by a combination of species occurrence records and uniform data structure with verification of the samples' geographic coordinates. Most samples were genetically or/and morphologically verified for correct taxonomical identification, because the most part of the samples presented was carefully investigated by the author himself, both for morphology and genetic attribution. Therefore, the dataset expands the available information on the spatial and temporal distribution of a number of small mammals’ species in Southeast Asia. All original notes and geographical localities were carefully checked and any duplicate and erroneous records have been removed from the final dataset.To the date of publication of these data, the GBIF database https://www.gbif.org contained 1408 rodent occurrence records from Vietnam (Fig. 1) along with 240 Scandentia records (Fig. 2), primarily the data on museum materials, including four large collections, such as the Field Museum of Natural History (Zoology) Mammal Collection (646 samples), Australian National Wildlife Collection provider for OZCAM (537), MVZ Mammal Collection Arctos (109), Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University (69) and six other minor collections comprising single specimens.Actually, as for the small terrestrial mammals, Vietnam remains one of the least representative regions in Southeast Asia. Here, we present new data containing 2408 occurrence records, including 2237 rodent records, along with 171 Scandentia ones (Fig. 3). Thus, the data significantly expand our knowledge about actual ranges of a number of species, including rare and endangered ones.
["mammals"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Cacopsylla pruni (Hemiptera, Psyllidae) in an apricot orchard is more attracted to white sticky traps dependent on host phenology
The colour preference of the plum psyllid, Cacopsylla pruni (Hemiptera, Psyllidae), is yet poorly studied. This species is the only known vector of the ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma prunorum’, the agent of European stone fruit yellows (ESFY), a devastating disease of several cultivated Prunus species in Europe. As ESFY is still uncurable, vector control, thus vector monitoring, is pivotal to protect these trees. Cacopsylla pruni is a univoltine, host-shelter-alternating species; overwintered adults migrate from conifer to wild or cultivated Prunus species (family Rosaceae) in late winter-early spring. To select the most effective colour indicating the arrivals of the immigrants, yellow, fluorescent yellow, white, red and transparent sticky traps were deployed in an apricot orchard in Hungary. The two most abundant species in sticky traps were C. pruni and C. melanoneura. Catches of white traps were significantly biased towards C. pruni as compared to C. melanoneura specimens. Moreover, white sticky traps were better at catching plum psyllids than the other colours. Attraction to white was strongest when immigrants from shelter plants kept arriving in the orchard, coinciding with the blooming principal phenophase of apricot trees. When the host flowering growth stage was over, catches of C. pruni in white traps declined sharply to the level of yellow traps that was highest during this post-blooming period. We recommended white sticky traps for promptly monitoring C. pruni in apricot orchards because it is more potent and more selective than yellow ones during the critically important early flowering interval.
["vector monitoring"]

Expanding the geographical distribution of Blastobotrys malaysiensis (Saccharomycetales) beyond the Asian continent – a cave fungus first reported in the Americas
Saccharomycetales are ascomycetic yeasts and, amongst them, the genus Blastobotrys has approximately 30 known species. Blastobotrys malaysiensis is a yeast species, described from cave samples, known until then only from Malaysia. In this study, we characterise a new strain and report the second occurrence record of this species. Here, Blastobotrys malaysiensis URM 8507/SXS 675, was collected from sediments samples from a cave in the Parque Estadual de Terra Ronca (PETER) in Goiás, Brazil. Phylogenetic analyses revealed strong support with the sequence of the species type, as well as with other species of the clade. This new record contributes by providing new molecular data for the species and expanding the knowledge of its distribution beyond the Asian continent.First record of a yeast for the American continent and its second mention for the world.
["Saccharomycetales"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Additions to the fauna and biology of stoneflies (Plecoptera) in Taizi River Basin, Liaoning, with seven new species records to China
An investigation report of stonefly fauna in Benxi Manchu Autonomous County, Liaoning Province, northeast China (used to be called Manchuria, now includes Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang Provinces and parts of Inner Mongolia, which are adjacent to the Russian Far East and the Korean Peninsula). Materials were studied with field observation in 2018 and 2019.This paper records five families, nine genera and 14 species of stoneflies from Taizi River, Liaoning Province. Nine species have been recorded for the first time in China and the biology of several common species is also reported for the first time.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

The first complete mitochondrial genome of Matsucoccidae (Hemiptera, Coccoidea) and implications for its phylogenetic position
The mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) has been extensively used to better understand the phylogenetic relationships within the hemipteran suborder Sternorrhyncha, but sequenced mitogenomes remain unavailable for the entire family Matsucoccidae to date. To address this, here we sequenced the complete mitogenome of Matsucoccus matsumurae; the first for this family. The mitogenome is 15,360 bp in size and comprises the typical set of 37 mitochondrial genes and a large non-coding region (AT-rich region). Gene order, nucleotide composition and codon usage of protein-coding genes (PCGs) of M. matsumurae differ considerably from those of the other two sequenced Coccidae species. All PCGs were initiated by the ATN start codons and ended with the TAA/G or single T-- stop codons. Nine transfer RNA genes could be folded into typical clover-leaf secondary structures. The length and AT content of the ribosomal RNA genes are highly conserved in the Coccoidea mitogenomes. In contrast, the AT-rich control region is highly variable in size and in the number of tandem repeats. The sliding window analysis showed that the cox1 gene is the most conserved amongst the 13 PCGs, while the ratios of non-synonymous to synonymous substitution rates indicated that the evolution of this mitogenome has been dominated by positive selection. Phylogenetic analyses, based on nucleotide sequence data of 37 mitochondrial genes and amino acid sequence data of 13 PCGs using Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood methods, showed that Matsucoccidae diverged before the Coccidae.
["mitogenome"]
["Research on scale insects", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Caddisfly (Trichoptera, Insecta) fauna and assemblages of the north-eastern part of the Pannonian Lowland (West Ukraine, Transcarpathia)
The caddisfly fauna of the Transcarpathian part of the Pannonian Lowland was poorly studied formerly. Here, we present the results of a six-year survey (2015-2020) carried out in four sampling sites of the Ukrainian part of the Bereg Plain and provide the actualised checklist of this area. Actually, 7346 specimens of 53 caddisfly species were collected. The number of known caddisfly species increased from 13 to 61. Two species Hydropsyche guttata and Parasetodes respersellus, which formerly were considered extinct in the Pannonian Ecoregion, were detected and another especially rare species (e.g. Cyrnus flavidus) was also recorded. The fauna of the region cover a significant part of both Hungarian and Ukrainian caddisfly fauna. Assemblages of four characteristic habitat types of the region showed significant differences considering their quantitative and qualitative composition, substrate, current, hydrological- and feeding types. The high diversity and natural value of the small lowland watercourses were proven using a new Caddisfly Conservation Index (CCI) calculated, based on vulnerability and rarity of species. The fauna and assemblages showed a unique character mainly independent from large rivers of the region.
["light trap"]

First records of three Nematocarcinus species (Crustacea, Decapoda, Nematocarcinidae) in the deep-waters of the north-western Pacific
During two scientific expeditions in the South China Sea and the Kyushu-Palau Ridge area, several specimens of thread-leg shrimp were collected from deep waters. Amongst them, three species, Nematocarcinus evansi Burukovsky, 2000, N. exilis (Spence Bate, 1888) and N. machaerophorus Burukovsky, 2003 were newly recorded from the north-western Pacific. The morphological features of these specimens are in concordance with the original description.Nematocarcinus evansi and N. machaerophorus were recorded for the second time since their original descriptions and newly found from the South China Sea. Nematocarcinus exilis, collected from the Kyushu-Palau Ridge area, represents a great distribution expansion from the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean to the Pacific, making it the fourth Atlantic-Pacific distributed Nematocarcinus species. Their detailed morphological characteristics, colour patterns and partial sequences of the COI and 16S rRNA genes are provided, respectively.
["Nematocarcinus"]

SLAM Project - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forest of Azores: IV - The spiders of Terceira and Pico Islands (2019-2021) and general diversity patterns after ten years of sampling
Long-term studies are key to understand the drivers of biodiversity erosion, such as land-use change and habitat degradation, climate change, invasive species or pollution. The long-term project SLAM (Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forest of Azores) started in 2012 and focuses on arthropod monitoring, using SLAM (Sea, Land and Air Malaise) traps, aiming to understand the impact of the drivers of biodiversity erosion on Azorean native forests (Azores, Portugal). This is the fourth contribution including SLAM project data and the second focused on the spider fauna (Arachnida, Araneae) of native forests on two islands (Pico and Terceira). In this contribution, we describe data collected between 2019 and 2021 and we analyse them together with a previously published database that covered the 2012-2019 period, in order to describe changes in species abundance patterns over the last ten years.We present abundance data of Azorean spider species for the 2019-2021 period in two Azorean Islands (Terceira and Pico). We also present analyses of species distribution and abundance of the whole sampling period. In the period of 2019-2021, we collected a total of 5110 spider specimens, of which 2449 (48%) were adults. Most juveniles, with the exception of some exotic Erigoninae, were also included in the data presented in this paper, since the low diversity of spiders in the Azores allows a relatively precise species-level identification of this life-stage. We recorded a total of 45 species, belonging to 39 genera and 16 families. The ten most abundant species were composed mostly of endemic or native non-endemic species and only two exotic species (Tenuiphantes tenuis (Blackwall, 1852) and Dysdera crocata C. L. Koch, 1838). They included 4308 individuals (84%) of all sampled specimens and were the dominant species in Azorean native forests. The family Linyphiidae was the richest and most abundant taxon, with 15 (33%) species and 2630 (51%) specimens. We report Cheiracanthium mildei L. Koch, 1864, a non-native species, from Pico Island for the first time. We found no new species records on Terceira Island. This publication contributes to increasing the baseline information for future long-term comparisons of the spiders on the studied sites and the knowledge of the arachnofauna of the native forests of Terceira and Pico, in terms of species abundance, distribution and diversity across seasons for a 10 years period.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Two new species of the genus Macrothele Ausserer, 1871 (Araneae, Macrothelidae) from China
The family Macrothelidae Simon, 1892 belongs to the infraorder Mygalomorphae, currently contains two genera and 47 described species, from South Europe, South, and East Southeast Asia, Central, West, and North Africa.Two new species of the funnel-web spider genus Macrothele Ausserer, 1871 from Yunnan Province, China are described: Macrothele washanensis Wu & Yang, sp. n. (♂♀), and M. wuliangensis Wu & Yang, sp. n. (♂♀). Detailed descriptions, diagnostic illustrations and distribution map are provided. All specimens are deposited in the Institute of Entomoceutics Research, Dali University (DUIER).
["mygalomorph"]

A checklist and areography of the longhorn beetles (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) of Pirin Mountains, Bulgaria
The longhorn beetles fauna of Pirin Mountains, Bulgaria, was studied, based on literature data and original material. As a result, 100 taxa from five subfamilies are listed for the area, as follows: Prioninae (7 taxa), Lepturinae (31 taxa), Spondylidinae (9 taxa), Cerambycinae (28 taxa) and Lamiinae (25 taxa).This study presents two new records for Pirin Mts. (Oxymirus cursor and Tetropium fuscum fuscum) and new localities or additional information for 13 cerambycid taxa (species and subspecies). The 100 longhorn beetle taxa belong to 17 zoogeographical categories and eight complexes. The European complex occupies a dominant position (34%), followed by those from Palaearctic (17%), Eurosiberian (15%), Mediterranean (15%), European-Iranoturanian (9%), Balkan endemic (5%) and Holarctic (4%) complexes.
["Pirin Mountains"]
["Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Phaeoisaria laianensis (Pleurotheciales, Pleurotheciaceae), a new species from freshwater habitats in China
Freshwater fungi play an indispensable role in the ecosystem and have great research value. Based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses of a concatenated dataset of ITS, LSU and SSU sequences, a new species, Phaeoisaria laianensis, was introduced as a freshwater hyphomycete from Anhui Province, China.Phaeoisaria laianensis was morphologically described as erect, rigid, dark brown to black, velvety synnemata which has macronematous, septate, branched, brown to dark brown, parallel adpressed conidiophores with polyblastic, integrated, terminal, hyaline to pale brown, smooth, denticulate, sympodial conidiogenous cells and ellipsoidal to obovoid, rounded at the apex, obtuse and tapering towards base, septate, guttulate conidia. Based on molecular and morphological characteristics, it is confirmed to be a new species. All illustrations and descriptions have been provided.

A new species of ice cream cone worm in the Gulf of California (Annelida, Pectinariidae)
Pectinaria Lamarck, 1818 is composed of 30 species, three of them were originally described from the west coast of the USA and Mexico: P. californiensis Hartman, 1941 (from Redondo Beach, California, USA), P. newportensis Hartman, 1941 (from Newport Bay, California, USA) and P. hartmanae Reish, 1968 (from Bahia de los Angeles, north-western Gulf of California, Mexico).A new pectinariid polychaete, Pectinaria santii sp. n., is reported from the central-eastern Gulf of California, Mexico. Pectinaria santii sp. n. is clearly distinguished from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological features: segment 4 with a ventral crest with six horn-shaped anterior projections; three chaetigers with notopodia (S5, S6 and S7); 12 chaetigers with noto- and neuropodia (from S8–19); 8–10 golden opercular paleae per lobe; a pair of ear-shaped lobes at the base of the cephalic veil; an anterior row of chaetae on notopodia with a deep incision and a bifid process at the lateral end of the shaft; and 13–21 pairs of amber scaphal hooks with distal margin rounded and hooded. A full description, including variation and photographs in live and fixed specimens, is provided, as well as a key to the species of Pectinaria from the Tropical Eastern Pacific and Temperate Northern Pacific.
["Pectinaria"]

Diversity of Lepidoptera (Insecta) recorded in a forest nursery of Nordeste County on São Miguel Island (Azores)
The diversity of moth species (Insecta, Lepidoptera) recorded in the forest nursery of Nordeste County on São Miguel Island (Azores) is given. Adults were sampled between March and December 2019 using three methods: (i) light trap to catch Noctuidae species, (ii) open-sided delta trap baited with a synthetic female sex pheromone lure to attract Epiphyas postvittana (Walker) males and (iii) entomological net to collect microlepidopteran moths. This contribution focuses mainly on the diversity of moths present in one forest nursery of Nordeste County of São Miguel Island (Azores), especially on the species associated with endemic and native plant species. It also contributes to better plan strategies for integrated protection and conservation measures, since nurseries host a great diversity of plants from the Laurel Forest, which may attract many lepidopteran species.A total of 10160 adults belonging to 33 lepidopteran species were recorded and listed by families, including: Argyresthiidae, one species (3%), Crambidae, four species (12%), Erebidae, one species (3%), Geometridae, five species (15%), Noctuidae, 18 species (55%), Sphingidae, one species (3%), Tineidae, one species (3%) and Tortricidae, two species (6%). The families Noctuidae, Geometridae and Crambidae were the most diverse. Those with the highest abundance of adults were the Noctuidae family, followed by the Geometridae, Crambidae, Tortricidae and Tineidae. The number of caught adults was consistently higher during spring and summer, decreasing sharply in late autumn. For 13 species caught in the light trap, the adult sex ratio was favourable to females. An analysis of the colonisation status, feeding and primary hosts of these endemic, native or exotic moth species contributes to our understanding of the factors that may lead to their establishment in Laurel Forest environments and to what extent there is a need to monitor and control them mainly with biological control agents.

A new species of the Clubiona corticalis-group (Araneae, Clubionidae) from Jiugong Mountains, Hubei Province, central China
The corticalis group is one of most diverse species-group in genus Clubiona Latreille, 1804. Currently, a total of 81 corticalis group species are known worldwide, amongst them 67 were recorded from China. However, the diversity of this group in China is still insufficiently known.Clubiona xianning sp. nov. is described as a new species of the C. corticalis species-group collected from Hubei Province, China.
["Sac spiders"]

Menisporopsis aquatica sp. nov. (Sordariomycetes, Chaetosphaeriales, Chaetosphaeriaceae), from freshwater habitat in China
Freshwater fungi are an integral part of freshwater ecosystems. They promote the carbon cycle of the ecosystem by decomposing wood substrates. Menisporopsis is a fungal genus of Chaetosphaeriales in Sordariomycetes, which has been commonly collected from aquatic and marine environments. Most species of this genus are saprophytes.Here, a new freshwater hyphomycetous fungus, Menisporopsis aquatica, reported from submerged rotten wood samples collected in a stream in Zhejiang Province, south-eastern China. The new species is characterised by hyaline conidia appendiculate with 1-2 setulae at each end and synnematous conidiophores growing closely around a black central seta. Molecular phylogeny of Menisporopsis was studied using a combined two-loci dataset, including the internal transcribed spacer sequences (ITS) and the nuclear ribosomal large subunit gene sequences (nrLSU). The new species is illustrated and a synopsis of the Menisporopsis species is presented in this paper.
["agamotype"]

A new species of Orthobula Simon, 1897 (Araneae, Trachelidae) from South China
Only one trachelid species, Trachelas sinensis Chen, Peng & Zhao, 1995 has been recorded from Jiangxi Province to date.A new species, Orthobula jiangxi Liu, sp. n., is described from Jiangxi Province of China, based on both sexes. Morphological illustrations are provided and its distribution is mapped.

New species and new records of exotic Scolytinae (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) in Europe
Bark and ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera, Scolytinae) are amongst the most important wood-boring insects introduced to Europe. During field investigations conducted between 2019 and 2021 in different countries and regions of Europe, many exotic species have been recorded providing new and relevant data.Dryoxylon onoharaense (Murayama, 1933) is recorded in Europe for the first time. Xyleborinus attenuatus (Blandford, 1894) is a species new to Italy, while Xylosandrus germanus (Blandford, 1894), Hypothenemus eruditus (Westwood, 1836) and Amasa sp. near A. truncata are new country records for Portugal. Cnestus mutilatus (Blandford, 1894), Phloeotribus liminaris (Harris, 1852) were collected in Italy and Amasa sp. near A. truncata was collected in France after the first discovery, confirming their establishment and their dispersal into new areas.
["bark and ambrosia beetles"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

A new species of the genus Stylicletodes Lang, 1936 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Cletodidae) from South Korea
Marine benthic harpacticoid copepods are poorly known in Korea due to the difficulty in obtaining specimens. Currently, the genus Stylicletodes Lang, 1936, which is known to occur in subtidal sediments, has not been reported in this area so far. During surveys on the subtidal meiofauna, we found a new species of Stylicletodes from several subtidal muddy sediments in the Yellow Sea and South Sea.In this study, we describe both sexes of a new species of Stylicletodes collected from the Yellow Sea and South Sea of Korea. Stylicletodes trifidus sp. nov. differs from its congeners in the following characteristics: the trifid rostrum, relative length ratio of the endopods to exopods on legs 1–4, reduced armature formulae on legs 3–4, constricted shape at mid-length of the anal somite, and structure of the sexually dimorphic male leg 3 with a two-segmented endopod. The new species underwent loss of the maxilliped, which is very rare in harpacticoids and is probably an important clue for the phylogeny of the species of Stylicletodes.

First report of Cladobotryum verticillatum (Ascomycota, Hypocreaceae) causing cobweb disease on Paxillus involutus
Paxillus, a type of ectomycorrhizal fungi distributed widely in the world, is also an essential category for researching bioactive substances and pharmacological functions. We discovered fruitbodies of Paxillus involutus covered in a layer of white mycelium in 2020. Cladobotryum verticillatum, a pathogenic fungus related to cobweb disease, was isolated and identified based on morphological and phylogenetic features. Koch's postulates were used to confirm the pathogenicity. The host range test revealed that C. verticillatum could cause disease in all examined mushrooms except Ganoderma sichuanense. To our knowledge, C. verticillatum is a new record species in China and a new pathogen on Paxillus involutus.
["Paxillaceae"]

Dipteran (Bibionomorpha and Tipulomorpha) diversity in dead wood in Lithuania
The aim of this study is to compile the species list of Bibionomorpha and Tipulomorpha flies associated with dead wood in Lithuania. Saproxylic nematocerans were studied from 2014 to 2020 in four protected areas and in five different tree species (Populus tremula, Quercus robur, Tilia cordata, Fraxinus excelsior and Alnus glutinosa) of the second stage of decay by using emergence traps. In total, 113 species were identified with Mycetophilidae, Sciaridae and Limoniidae being the most species-rich families. The compiled list of species emerging from dead wood in Lithuania is presented. Fourteen species were reared from dead wood for the first time.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species within the Centaurea busambarensis complex (Asteraceae, Cardueae) from Sicily
The Centaurea busambarensis group is made up by eight species endemic to Sicily. We statistically evaluated a population found on the Nebrodi Mountain (NE Sicily) to verify if the observed morphological differences with the already known taxa justified the description of a new one. It resulted in being sufficiently distinct to deserve recognition at the species level.Centaurea valdemonensis, a new species endemic to Sicily is described and illustrated here. It is confined to the Nebrodi Mountains (NE Sicily). The distinction of this taxon from the others belonging to the C. busambarensis complex has been supported with the aid of statistical analyses on morphological characters. The differences with the related taxa are discussed.
["Centaurea"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Result of a year-long animal survey in a state-owned forest farm in Beijing, China
BackgroundArtificial forest can have great potential in serving as habitat to wildlife, depending on different management methods. As the state-owned forest farms now play a new role in ecological conservation in China, the biological richness of this kind of land-use type is understudied. Once owned by a mining company, a largest state-owned forest farm, Jingxi Forest Farm, has been reformed to be a state-owned forest farm with the purpose of conservation since 2017. Although this 116.4 km2 forest farm holds a near-healthy montaine ecosystem very representative in North China, a large proportion of artificial coniferous forest in the forest farm has been proven to hold less biodiversity than natural vegetation. This situation, however, provides a great opportunity for ecological restoration and biodiversity conservation. Therefore, from November 2019 to December 2020, we conducted a set of biodiversity surveys, whose results will serve as a baseline for further restoration and conservation.New informationHere, we report the result of a multi-taxa fauna diversity survey conducted in Jingxi Forest Farm mainly in year 2020 with explicit spatial information. It is the first survey of its kind conducted in this area, revealing a total of 19 species of mammals, 86 birds, four reptiles, two amphibians and one fish species, as well as 101 species of insects. Four species of mammals are identified as data-poor species as they have less than 100 occurrence records with coordination in the GBIF database. One species of insect, representing one new provincial record genus of Beijing, is reported.
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Revealing the millipede and other soil-macrofaunal biodiversity in Hong Kong using a citizen science approach
Soil biodiversity plays important roles in nutrient recycling in both the environment and agriculture. However, they are generally understudied worldwide. To reveal the diversity of soil macrofauna in Hong Kong, here we initiated a citizen science project involving university, non-governmental organisations and secondary school students and teachers. It is envisioned that the citizen science approach used in this study could be used as a demonstration to future biodiversity sampling and monitoring studies.Throughout a year of monitoring and species sampling across different localities in Hong Kong, 150 soil macrofaunal morphospecies were collected. Eighty five of them were further identified by morphology and DNA barcoding was assigned to each identified morphospecies, yielding a total of 646 DNA barcodes, with new millipede sequences deposited to the GenBank. The soil macrofauna morphospecies in Hong Kong found in this study are mainly dominated by millipedes (23 out of 150) and oligochaetes (15 out of 150). Amongst the twenty three identified millipedes, two polyxenid millipedes, Monographis queenslandica Huynh & Veenstra, 2013 and Alloproctoides remyi Marquet and Condé, 1950 are first recorded in Hong Kong. Information has been curated on an online platform and database (http://biodiversity.sls.cuhk.edu.hk/millipedes). A postcard summarising the findings of millipedes in Hong Kong has also been made as a souvenir and distributed to citizen participants. The identified macrofauna morphospecies and their 646 DNA barcodes in this study established a solid foundation for further research in soil biodiversity.
["Hong Kong"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

Unravelling the origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) in south-eastern Europe using mitochondrial evidence
The origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) populations in south-eastern Europe (namely in Bulgaria and Romania), representing the north-eastern range border of this species, was addressed using mitochondrial DNA. We compared cytochrome b sequences from Bulgaria and Romania with those from the contiguous range in Central Europe that are available from previous studies. We recorded five main haplogroups in Bulgaria and Romania, belonging to the Central Balkan clade. However, haplogroup III was recorded in more localities than previously found. Additionally, signs of haplotype admixture were identified in several populations along the Danube River. The presence of the Southern Alps haplotype in one population from Otopeni, Bucharest (Romania) and its close phylogenetic relationships to north Italy populations suggests human-mediated introductions of this wall lizard clade in Romania. Our results confirm that P. muralis can have non-native lineages and admixture through active human-mediated transport.
["phylogeography"]

Exploring the predation of large land snails using preyed shell remains from rock anvil sites in a tropical limestone rainforest in Malaysia
The study of prey-predator interactions between land snails and birds offers important insights into evolutionary and ecological relationships. Here, we report a case study of rock anvils presumably used by the birds Myophonus caeruleus and Enicurus ruficapillus in a cave cavity of a limestone hill in Malaysia. We did not detect any other species in the plots and, therefore, based on our short study duration, we cannot rule out the possibility that other species, such as mammals, preyed on the snails. The predated shell remains of four land snails namely, Hemiplecta sp., Cyclophorus perdix perdix, Amphidromus atricallosus perakensis and Cyclophorus semisulcatus, were found around rock anvils in the nine plots. Finally, we discussed the potential and the limitations of using shell remains of preyed land snails for behavioural, ecological and evolutionary studies between land snails and their predators.
["karst"]
["Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

New records of Trachelipus vespertilio (Budde-Lund, 1896) (Isopoda, Oniscidea) with a description of the male
The existing descriptions of the woodlouse Trachelipus vespertilio are based on a single female collected in Croatia in the nineteenth century. No further information on the occurrence of this species has been reported in published literature and the morphology of the male, which may offer additional reliable diagnostic characters, has remained unknown.On the basis of new material collected in Slovenia, a description of the male morphology of T. vespertilio is provided along with a species diagnosis. The rediscovery of this woodlouse after more than a century extends its distribution range to Slovenia.
["woodlice"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

The first record of the thomisid genus Ibana Benjamin, 2014 (Araneae, Thomisidae) from China, with the description of a new species
The genus Ibana Benjamin, 2014 was established, based on the type species Ibana senagang Benjamin, 2014 from Borneo, Malaysia. No species of this genus has been recorded from China.A new species of Ibana is described and illustrated, representing the first record of the genus for China. Ibana gan sp. n. differs from its congener by the yellowishbrown longitudinal band on the abdomen and the round, contiguous spermathecae. The distribution of the new species in Jiangxi Province is mapped.

Plume moths (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae) reared from the Chilean endemic Stevia philippiana (Asteraceae)
The micromoth fauna of the arid environments of the western slopes of central Andes remains poorly explored. Plants native to this area host overlooked species. A survey for micromoth larvae on the Chilean endemic Stevia philippiana Hieron. (Asteraceae) was performed.The first records of plume moths (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae) associated with S. philippiana are provided. Adults of Adaina jobimi Vargas, 2020 and a new species of Oidaematophorus Wallengren, 1862 were reared from larvae collected on inflorescences and leaves, respectively. Oidaematophorus andresi sp. n. is described and illustrated. A phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences clustered each of the two plume moths with the type species of its respective genus. These records expand the host plant range of A. jobimi and add a second species of Oidaematophorus to the Chilean fauna of plume moths.
["arid environments"]

Metabarcoding data analysis revealed the plant dietary variation of long-tailed macaque Macaca fascicularis (Cercopithecidae, Cercopithecinae) living in disturbed habitats in Peninsular Malaysia
The long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) has a wide range in both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. Although the primates are especially vulnerable to habitat alterations, this primate lives in disturbed habitats due to human-induced land-use. Thus, this study presents a faecal metabarcoding approach to clarify the plant diet of long-tailed macaques from five locations in Peninsular Malaysia to represent fragmented forest, forest edge, island and recreational park habitats. We extracted genomic DNA from 53 long-tailed macaque faecal samples. We found 47 orders, 126 families, 609 genera and 818 species across these five localities. A total of 113 plant families were consumed by long-tailed macaques in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 61 in the Malaysia Genome and Vaccine Institute, 33 in Langkawi Island, 53 in Redang Island and 44 in the Cenderawasih Cave. Moraceae (33.24%) and Fabaceae (13.63%) were the most common families consumed by long-tailed macaques from the study localities. We found that habitat type impacted diet composition, indicating the flexibility of foraging activities. This research findings provide an understanding of plant dietary diversity and the adaptability of this macaque with the current alteration level that applies to long-tailed macaque conservation management interest in the future.
["Malaysian primates"]
["Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Primate Behavior and Ecology", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

New distribution record of the rare bat Hypsugo cf. vordermanni (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) from the Crocker Range Park, Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
A female Hypsugo cf. vordermanni was caught at a stream near a village road in Mantailang, Crocker Range Park, Sabah, on 12 November 2018. This bat is a new record for the national park and the second record for Sabah. It was first recorded from Banggi Island, Kudat, in 1991. The species' few records throughout its range is most likely due to sampling effort bias towards forest interior and cave-dwelling species, as this species is more likely an edge-space aerial forager. It is morphologically similar to Peninsular Malaysia's Hypsugo macrotis, but the latter has never been reported from Borneo. Therefore, additional specimen collection and molecular data for H. cf. vordermanni are needed for further species confirmation. More information on H. vordermanni ecology is also crucial in aiding the management plan for this species as it is currently classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN.
["white-winged pipistrelle"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Two new species and a new record of the Encarsia longifasciata-group (Hymenoptera, Aphelinidae) from Malaysia and China
The genus Encarsia Förster, 1878, which is the largest genus of the family Aphelinidae, contains 453 valid species worldwide. Most species of Encarsia with known biology are primary endoparasitoids of Aleyrodidae and Diaspididae.Species of the Encarsia longifasciata-group from Malaysia and China are reviewed. This is the first record of this group from Malaysia. Two new species, E. borneensis Geng & Li sp. n. and E. pauroseta Geng & Li sp. n., are described and illustrated. Encarsia longifasciata is newly recorded from Malaysia (Borneo). An updated key to the longifasciata-group species (females) worldwide is provided.

Four new species of ctenid spiders (Araneae, Ctenidae) from Southeast Asia, with the first description of the female of Sinoctenus zhui Marusik, Zhang & Omelko, 2012
The spider family Ctenidae Keyserling, 1877 has a worldwide distribution with 580 species belonging to 49 genera, of which 109 species of six genera are distributed in Southeast Asia.Four new species of ctenid spiders are described from Southeast Asia: Anahita menglun sp. n. (Yunnan, China), Bowie haiphong sp. n. (Hai Phong, Vietnam), Bowie mengla sp. n. (Yunnan, China) and Bowie zhengi sp. n. (Yunnan, China). In addition, the female of Sinoctenus zhui Marusik, Zhang & Omelko, 2012 (Hainan, China) is described for the first time.

Species diversity and DNA barcode library of freshwater Molluscs of South Caucasus
This study provides the first attempt to investigate the molecular diversity of South Caucasian freshwater molluscs (Mollusca, Gastropoda) and lay down the first bricks to build up a DNA-barcode library. In total, 289 COI barcode sequences were obtained from 33 morpho-species belonging to 24 molluscan genera and 10 families that represent nearly 30% of known freshwater molluscan diversity of the South Caucasus region. DNA barcodes were analysed by means of the Barcode Index Number (BIN) and the other tools available in BOLD Systems. Results showed that the knowledge of freshwater molluscs diversity in the South Caucasus is far from comprehensive. For the studied 33 morpho-species, 289 barcodes were clustered into 40 BINs, from which unique BINs were defined for 12 species and five species were characterised with more than a single BIN. From the studied taxa, 60% were characterised larger than 2.2% sequence divergence indicating high genetic variation or cryptic diversity. Within our limited taxonomic coverage, we found one new species for the Republic of Georgia (Galba schirazensis) and at least three undescribed species belonging to the genera Stagnicola, Segmentina and Anisus. Uniqueness and high molecular diversity of the studied species emphasise the need for further intensive morphological and molecular investigations of the South Caucasian freshwater molluscan fauna.
["South Caucasus"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

The land snails (Mollusca, Gastropoda) of Kea island (Aegean, Greece)
Kea is the westernmost island of the Cyclades and is located between Syros and Attica, in central Greece. In this work, we have resampled the island after 43 years – i.e. when the island was first fully sampled – and we present its complete land snail fauna.We report 42 land snail species with 10 species being new records for the island. Based on our results we draw attention to the fact that sampling for land snails should be done during the wet period in order to survey the complete malacofauna in an island or a region. For such a complete survey, collection and inspection of soil and litter are also necessary. Finally, increased sampling effort through regular resurveys is a necessary prerequisite in order to effectively assess the temporal dynamics of biodiversity patterns.
["Aegean archipelago"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Thirteen moth species (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Noctuidae) newly recorded in South Africa, with comments on their distribution
Thanks to the high diversity of ecosystems and habitats, South Africa harbours tremendous diversity of insects. The Kruger National Park, due to its position close to the border between two biogeographic regions and high heterogeneity of environmental conditions, represents an insufficiently studied hotspot of lepidopteran diversity. During our ecological research in the Kruger National Park, we collected abundant moth material, including several interesting faunistic records reported in this study.We reported 13 species of moths which had not yet been recorded in South Africa. In many cases, our records represented an important extension of the species’ known distribution, including two species (Ozarba gaedei and O. persinua) whose distribution ranges extended into the Zambezian biogeographic region. Such findings confirmed the poor regional knowledge of lepidopteran diversity.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Acrocalymma chuxiongense sp. nov., a new species of Acrocalymmaceae (Pleosporales) on leaves of Quercus
In Huafo Mountain, Mouding, Yunnan Province, China, we found black protrusions on the leaf surface of Quercus plants. The collection which we identified as Acrocalymma chuxiongense sp. nov., a new species of Acrocalymmaceae (Pleosporales) is characterised by dome-shaped ascomata, bitunicate asci with pedicel furcate and an ocular chamber and hyaline, obovoid to ellipsoid, 1-septate ascospores.Morphologically, this species is typical with obovoid to ellipsoid, larger ascospores than other known species in Acrocalymma. Phylogenetic analysis also showed that it represents a distinct clade, distant to any other species of Acrocalymma. Therefore, we introduce it as Acrocalymma chuxiongense, a new species of Acrocalymmaceae. This study is adding to the current situation where there are very few species and lack of teleomorph characteristics.

Diatom diversity, distribution and ecology in Mediterranean ecosystems of Abrau Peninsula, north-western Caucasus
The North Caucasus is an extensive region with a multitude of landscapes and high biological diversity. Amongst various ecosystems, the xerophytic sub-Mediterranean forests of the Abrau Peninsula (Utrish State Nature Reserve) and its vicinity are unique but have been poorly studied. The diversity of diatoms in North Caucasian ecosystems have been studied partially and only little information is available about their presence and distribution on the Abrau Peninsula. Here, we present a comprehensive check-list of diatoms sampled during a July 2021 field campaign. Samples were collected in 67 sites, including 39 permanent streams, 21 temporal (puddles) and seven permanent waterbodies. Results of the current study contribute to improving the knowledge about diatoms in the north-western Caucasus and its sub-Mediterranean ecosystems in particular.Here, we provide a detailed dataset that contains 215 freshwater and brackish diatom occurrences collected during a field campaign in July 2021. A total of 88 diatom (Bacillariophyta) taxa which belong to 12 orders, 25 families and 39 genera were collected. The genera with the highest number of occurrences per site were Gomphonema (26), Nitzschia (22), Navicula (20), Cocconeis (14), Amphora (14), Achnanthidium (14) and Planothidium (11). The genera with the highest number of infrageneric taxa were Nitzschia (8), Navicula (7), Gomphonema (6) and Mastogloia (5). Navicula blazencicae, known as the endemic of the Lake Prespa (Levkov 2007) is found from two sites in our study. Three specimens of the genus Mastogloia could not be assigned to a known species and may represent new diatom species. Distribution and ecology data are provided for each taxa. Occurrence data are given. Statistical analysis of diatom communities showed a significant dependence on habitat type and their ecological conditions.
["Bacillariophyta"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

The first record of the parasitic myrmecophilous caterpillar Liphyra brassolis (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae) inside Asian weaver ant (Oecophylla smaragdina) nests in oil palm plantations
Asian weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina) are an important biocontrol agent in agricultural habitats. We conducted surveys in oil palm plantations in Riau, Indonesia for an obligate myrmecophilous butterfly larvae, Liphyra brassolis (Lepidoptera, Lycaenidae), that is known to consume weaver ant larvae in other habitat types. We found L. brassolis larvae in five of the twenty nests surveyed, with larval presence not being related to weaver ant nest size. We also observed L. brassolis larvae in a weaver ant mass rearing facility. This is the first report of L. brassolis from oil palm plantations and may have implications for the use of weaver ants as biological control agents.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Non-native terrestrial slugs from Sinaloa, Mexico: Deroceras laeve (O. F. Müller, 1774) and Sarasinula plebeia (P. Fischer, 1868) (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
This is the first record of two non-native terrestrial slug species from Sinaloa, Mexico. Deroceras laeve and Sarasinula plebeia were collected between 2019 and 2022 in Concordia and Mazatlan Municipalities (north-western Mexico). The external morphology and anatomic features of the dissected specimens coincide with the descriptions of each species, whose identities were also confirmed by their partial COI sequences. The ample occurrence of S. plebeia suggests that this species has an established population, while D. laeve was found as isolated individuals, likely associated with plant nurseries.
["introduced"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

New record of Hymenophyllum caudatum Bosch (Polypodiopsida, Hymenophyllaceae) extends the mainland distribution in the coastal Mediterranean Forest of South America.
During a botanical exploration in the Los Ruiles National Reserve (Chile), a population of Hymenophyllum caudatum Bosch was identified. Fronds were found at the base of a rock, under a hygrophilous vegetation cover, in a ravine (35°49'56.49\"S -72°30'42.44\"W). The finding in this wilderness area extends the distribution by 120 km northwards on the mainland, which until now was limited to the coastal area of the city of Concepción (36°47'07.86\"). This contribution presents an observed specimen, the site of the find and the accompanying species.
["stream flora"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant and animal studies"]

First record of the soldier fly genus Beris Latreille (Diptera, Stratiomyidae) from Korea, with designation of two new synonyms
The soldier fly subfamily Beridinae in the family Stratiomyidae contains approximately 280 known species, these being distributed across nearly all biogeographical regions with the exception of the polar regions. On the Korean Peninsula, the species diversity of this subfamily has been poorly examined to date, as is reflected in the National species list of Korea by the National Institute of Biological Resources.In this paper, the soldier fly genus Beris Latreille is reported for the first time from Korea, based on observations of the following three species: B. fuscipes Meigen, 1820, B. hildebrandtae Pleske, 1930 and B. hirotui Ôuchi, 1943. Additionally, the authors propose two nomenclatural acts: 1) B. angustifacies Nagatomi and Tanaka, 1972 syn. nov. = B. hildebrandtae Pleske, 1930; 2) B. liaoningana Cui, Li and Yang, 2010 syn. nov. = B. hildebrandtae Pleske, 1930. The authors also provide an identification key, descriptions, photographs and distributional notes on these Korean species.
["Beridinae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

Expanded range of eight orchid bee species (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Euglossini) in Costa Rica
The Monteverde region of Costa Rica is a hotspot of endemism and biodiversity. The region is, however, disturbed by human activities such as agriculture and urbanisation. This study provides a list of orchid bees (Hymenoptera: Euglossini) compiled from field surveys conducted during January-October 2019 in the premontane wet forest of San Luis, Monteverde, Costa Rica. We collected 36 species of Euglossine bees across four genera. We provide new geographic distribution and elevation data for eight species in two genera. Due to their critical role in the pollination of orchids and other plants, the distribution and abundance of Euglossine bees has relevance to plant biodiversity and conservation efforts. This is especially important in a region with a high diversity of difficult-to-study epiphytic orchids, such as in the Monteverde region.A total of 2,742 Euglossine male individuals across four genera (Eufriesea, Eulaema, Euglossa and Exaerete) were collected in this study. Updated geographic distributions and elevation ranges were established for eight species of Euglossini in two genera: Eufriesea mussitans (Fabricius, 1787), Eufriesea rufocauda (Kimsey, 1977), Euglossa dodsoni (Moure, 1965), Euglossa dressleri (Moure, 1968), Euglossa hansoni (Moure, 1965), Euglossa ignita (Smith, 1874), Euglossa tridentata (Moure, 1970) and Euglossa turbinifex (Dressler, 1978). These are the first recorded occurrences of these species in the Monteverde region of Costa Rica, according to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) database (https://doi.org/10.15468/9f9kgp). This study also established expanded elevation ranges for Euglossa allosticta, Euglossa bursigera, Euglossa mixta, Euglossa heterosticta and Euglossa maculabris, though these five species have been previously recorded in the Monteverde region and, thus, are not described in detail here. Additionally, our capture of 123 Eufriesea concava individuals is significant, as it indicates its abundance in this region. Prior to this study, there was a single record of E. concava in the Monteverde region, documented in 1993.

Spatial and temporal distribution dataset of benthic macroalgae during the 2015-2016 tropical monsoonal cycle in Malaysia
The effects of small-scale disturbances, such as monsoon, are understudied in tropical regions. The storms associated with monsoon events not only modify the local macroalgal community structure, but also reveal the continuation of short-term recolonisation. Thus, this study aims to determine the variation in species, assemblage and cover of macroalgae during the monsoonal cycle from 2015 to 2016. This paper presents data on the spatial and temporal distribution of benthic macroalgae along the coastline of Johor, Malaysia. The information is presented as raw and partially-processed data, which summarises the cover and frequency of macroalgae at the respective study sites. This paper describes an important set of data that can be used further for in-situ experiments on the effects of environmental disturbances towards pioneer and climax species in tropical areas.This study provides a description of the east coast shore of Peninsular Malaysia, specifically in Johor coast in 2015-2016. The spatial and temporal distribution and abundance of a total of 41 taxa were assessed at four monsoon-exposed locations. These data provide a comprehensive baseline against disturbance and recolonisation of macroalgal community can be effectively and objectively evaluated.
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine and Coastal Ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Medium- and large-sized mammals from Estação Biológica Fiocruz Mata Atlântica, Rio de Janeiro, south-eastern Brazil
The Pedra Branca Forest is in a highly urbanised region of the central portion of Rio de Janeiro City and comprises the largest urban forest in the world (> 12,000 ha). The local flora and fauna are protected by three conservation units and the Estação Biológica Fiocruz Mata Atlântica (EFMA), which comprises 462 hectares on the east side of the remnant. The local biodiversity is still little known compared to other Atlantic Forest remnants from the Rio de Janeiro State. Here, we provide results of a survey of medium- and large-sized terrestrial mammals from the EFMA. In addition, we analysed the distribution of this fauna along three habitat types defined as Peridomicile, Transitional Forest and Forest Core. Sampling was performed from 2017 to 2020 and comprised a camera-trap survey, interviews with residents and local workers and occasional records. Results include occurrence records for 16 autochthonous and one allochthonous (Callithrix sp.) wild mammals, which are distributed into 14 families and seven orders, in addition to the presence of free-ranging domestic dogs and cats. Four species are in some category of threat of extinction at national or global levels. Amongst them, Leontopithecus rosalia (first record for the Rio de Janeiro City in more than a century) and Leopardus guttulus are classified as Vulnerable by IUCN. Most wild native species were registered in the three habitat types, but with differences in the frequency of records. Our results indicate that the presence of domestic dogs and cats influenced the species composition in each area, with Nasua nasua, Dasyprocta leporina and Didelphis aurita less frequent in places where domestic dogs and cats are more frequent. This is the first systematic effort to understand the occurrence and distribution of mid- and large-sized mammals in the Pedra Branca Forest.
["camera traps"]
["Zoonotic diseases and public health", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Human-Animal Interaction Studies"]

A review of Leuctridae (Insecta, Plecoptera) in Wuyi Mountains, China
Wuyi Mountains are located in the northern Oriental Region and the edge of the southern Palaearctic Region. They have a unique geographical location, complex landform and superior climatic conditions, providing a good ecological environment for Leuctridae species. However, due to the damage of some holotypes in the 20th century, limited drawings and lack of colour figures, it is necessary to reorganise and supplement the preserved Leuctridae specimens from Wuyi Mountains.In this study, we found that there are twelve species of Leuctridae recorded in Wuyi Mountains, accounting for about 20% of the recorded species of Leuctridae in China. These records include two genera and five new distribution records species: one species of the genus Paraleuctra Hanson, 1941: Paraleuctra orientalis (Chu 1928) and eleven species of the genus Rhopalopsole Klapálek, 1912, including five new distribution records to Wuyi Mountains: Rhopalopsole fengyangshanensis Yang, Shi & Li, 2009; Rhopalopsole sinensis Yang & Yang, 1993; Rhopalopsole yangdingi Sivec & Harper, 2008; Rhopalopsole flata Yang & Yang, 1995; Rhopalopsole basinigra Yang & Yang, 1995. Now a total of twelve species of Leuctridae have been recorded from Wuyi Mountains, Fujian Province of south-eastern China. In this paper, we also provide a key to the male, new images and some notes of these twelve species, except Rhopalopsole recurvispina (Wu, 1949) and Rhopalopsole spiniplatta (Wu, 1949). We failed to collect these two species and we regard R. recurvispina as a nomen dubium, because there are no distinctive features that can be used to distinguish this species.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new species of Sweltsa Ricker, 1943 (Plecoptera, Chloroperlidae) and a supplementary description of Sweltsa hamula Chen & Du, 2017 from China
The genus Sweltsa is a small to medium-sized stonefly with distinct coloured wings, giving the species the common name of green stoneflies. It belongs to the family Chloroperlidae. This genus includes more than 55 species world wide, 14 of which have been reported from China.A new species of the genus Sweltsa Ricker, 1943, Sweltsa liupanshana Rehman, Du & Huo sp. nov. from Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Liupan Mountain, China is described; this is the second record of Sweltsa from Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. In addition, the first female description and male supplementary description of Sweltsa hamula Chen & Du, 2017 from Sichuan Province are provided. Diagnosis, description and colour illustration of the new species and of Sweltsa hamula are provided and the morphological characteristics are compared with closely-related species.
["Stonefly species taxonomy and ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

A new species of Pancorius Simon, 1902 (Araneae, Salticidae) from Guizhou, China
The jumping spider genus Pancorius Simon, 1902 is represented by 40 species primarily distributed in East, South and Southeast Asia. Amongst these, 10 (including eight endemics) are known from China.A new species, Pancorius lui sp. nov., is diagnosed and described, based on both sexes from Yuntai Mountain in Guizhou of China. Diagnostic photos and a distribution map are provided.

Phylogenetic implications of the complete mitochondrial genome of Ogcogaster segmentator (Westwood, 1847) and first record of the genus Ogcogaster Westwood, 1847 from China (Neuroptera, Myrmeleontidae, Ascalaphinae)
The genus Ogcogaster Westwood, 1847, which is endemic to the Oriental Region and contains only five species, has been recorded in India and Pakistan, but not in China. The genus was not sampled in any previous study on the phylogeny of Neuroptera and its affinity within Ascalaphinae is unclear.The owlfly species Ogcogaster segmentator (Westwood, 1847) is firstly recorded from China, based on a female specimen collected from Yunnan Province, which represents the first record of the genus Ogcogaster from China. The complete mitochondrial genome of this species is first sequenced and described. The phylogenetic analysis, based on all 13 PCGs and two rRNA genes of the owlfly mitogenomes determined so far, assigned O. segmentator into a monophyletic group with Libelloides macaronius (Scopoli, 1763) and Ascalohybris subjacens (Walker, 1853).
["Ascalaphini"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

Re-validation and re-description of Tasa koreana (Wesołowska, 1981) (Araneae, Salticidae)
Tasa Wesołowska, 1981 is a small chrysilline genus distributed in East Asia, with two currently known species: T. davidi (Schenkel, 1963) and T. nipponica Bohdanowicz & Prószyński, 1987, both species having been recorded in China.The combination Tasa koreana (Wesołowska, 1981) comb. rev. is re-validated, based on the characteristics of the copulatory organs of both sexes. A re-description and diagnostic photographs are also provided.
["Spider"]

Ganoderma ovisporum sp. nov. (Polyporales, Polyporaceae) from Southwest China
Ganoderma is a white-rot fungus with a cosmopolitan distribution and includes several economically important species. This genus has been extensively researched due to its beneficial medicinal properties and chemical constituents with potential nutritional and therapeutic values. Traditionally, species of Ganoderma were identified solely based on morphology; however, recent molecular studies revealed that many morphology-based species are conspecific. Furthermore, some type species are in poor condition, which hinders us from re-examining their taxonomic characteristics and obtaining their molecular data. Therefore, new species and fresh collections with multigene sequences are needed to fill the loopholes and to understand the biological classification system of Ganoderma.In a survey of Ganoderma in Guizhou Province, southwest China, we found a new species growing on soil and, herein, it was identified by both morphology and phylogenetic evidence. Hence, we propose a new species, Ganoderma ovisporum sp. nov. This species is characterised by an annual, stipitate, laccate basidiome, with a red–brown to brownish-black pileus surface and pale white pores, duplex context, clavate pileipellis terminal cells, trimitic hyphal system, ellipsoid basidiospores with dark brown eusporium bearing coarse echinulae and an obtuse turgid appendix. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed that the novel species sisters to G. sandunense with high bootstrap support. Furthermore, the RPB2 sequence of G. sandunense is supplied for the first time. Notably, we re-examined the type specimen of G. sandunense and provide a more precise description of the duplex context, pileipellis terminal cells and basidia. All species collected are described and illustrated with coloured photographs. Moreover, we present an updated phylogeny for Ganoderma, based on nLSU, ITS, RPB2 and TEF1-α DNA sequence data and species relationships and classification are discussed.
["one new species"]

A survey of ctenid spiders (Araneae, Ctenidae) from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Yunnan, China
Amauropelma Raven, Stumkat & Gray, 2001 currently contains 24 species. It is distributed in Australia, India, Indonesia, Laos and Malaysia. This genus has not been found in China. Ctenus Walckenaer, 1805 comprises 213 known species. This genus is distributed worldwide. Currently, only two species, Ctenus lishuqiang Jäger, 2012 and Ctenus yaeyamensis Yoshida, 1998 are known to occur in China.Three new species of ctenid spiders are described from Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunnan Province, China: Amauropelma yunnan sp. nov., Ctenus banna sp. nov. and Ctenus yulin sp. nov. Amauropelma and Ctenus robustus Thorell, 1897 are reported from China for the first time.

A new giant keelback slug of the genus Limax from the Balkans, described by citizen scientists
Despite their large size, striking colouration and genital extravagance, the taxonomy of the European giant keelback slugs of the genus Limax is still poorly understood. Preliminary morphological and molecular data suggest that many unnamed or unrecognised species exist, especially in the Alps, the Mediterranean and the Balkans.We organised a citizen science expedition to Durmitor National Park in Montenegro and discovered a new species, genetically distinct, but morphologically similar to the sympatric L. cinereoniger Wolf 1803 and describe it as L. pseudocinereoniger.
["malacology"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Rise and fall: Results of a multidisciplinary study and 5-year long monitoring of conservation translocation of the European ground squirrel
The current publication gives a detailed assessment of the results from a population reinforcement of a European ground squirrel's (Spermophilus citellus) colony in south-eastern Bulgaria. The reinforcement was planned and implemented along with multidisciplinary research of the adaptation process (including radiotelemetry, parasitological study and assessment of the stress in the animals) and regular monitoring (yearly burrow counting). Although the donor and recipient populations were genetically similar, morphometrical data indicated variations in the body size probably due to the difference in population densities in the two sites. The monitoring revealed that the burrows were aggregated and there was a positive correlation in the spatial distribution of the ground squirrels’ burrow holes and the colonies of Harting's vole (Microtus hartingi) - another social ground-digging rodent that co-inhabits the study area. The first results showed successful reinforcement according to the three classical evaluation criteria: the individuals survived the translocation process, they successfully reproduced and an initial population growth was observed, based on the burrow entrances’ count - from 36 in 2017 to 280 in 2020. In 2021, however, a considerable decline in the abundance of the population was recorded - 58.5% decline in the burrow number and 36% decline in the colony area. A decrease was also observed in the abundance of the Harting's voles' colonies. A review of all the collected information suggests it is unlikely that the decrease is due to helminth parasites, translocation stress or other behaviour issues. The most probable explanation is the bad weather conditions - unusually high rainfalls combined with relatively high temperatures in January 2021. In conclusion, we strongly emphasise the need for detailed and long-term monitoring after conservation translocation and careful evaluation of all the influencing factors before, during and after such actions.
["Spermophilus citellus"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

First record of the symbiotic palaemonid shrimp Pontonides sibogae Bruce, 2005 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Palaemonidae) from Korea
A single specimen of Pontonides sibogae was collected from a dendrophylliid coral by trimix SCUBA diving at a depth of 75 m during fieldwork around Jejudo Island, Korea in 2020. The morphology of the specimen corresponds closely to the main diagnostic characters of the holotype, especially in the presence of a distinct tubercle on the eyestalk, as well as the second pereiopod with fusiform setae along the dorsal border of the ischium.The genus Pontonides had previously not been reported from Korean waters. Herein, colour photographs are provided, as well as an illustrated description including previously unreported characteristics.

SLAM Project - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the Natural Forest of Azores: III - Testing the impact of edge effects in a native forest of Terceira Island
The data we present are part of the long-term project “SLAM Project - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the Natural Forest of Azores” that started in 2012, aiming to understand the impact of biodiversity erosion drivers on Azorean native forests (Azores, Macaronesia, Portugal). The data for the current study consist in an inventory of arthropods collected in three locations of a native forest fragment at Terra-Brava protected area (Terceira, Azores, Portugal) aiming to test the impact of edge effects on Azorean arthropod communities. The three locations were: (i) the edge of the forest, closer to the pastures; (ii) an intermediate area (100 m from edge); and (iii) the deepest part of the native forest fragment (more than 300 m from edge). The study was carried out between June 2014 and December 2015. A total of nine passive flight interception SLAM (Sea, Land and Air Malaise) traps were deployed (three in each of the studied locations), during 18 consecutive months. This study provides the raw data to investigate temporal and edge effect variation for the Azorean arthropod communities.The collected arthropods belong to a wide diversity of taxonomic groups of Arachnida, Diplopoda, Chilopoda and Insecta classes. We collected a total of 13,516 specimens from which it was possible to identify to species level almost all specimens (13,504). These identified specimens belong to 15 orders, 58 families (plus three with only genus or family level identification) and 97 species of arthropods. A total of 35 species are considered introduced, 34 native non-endemic and 28 endemic. Additionally, a total of 10 taxa (12 specimens) were recorded at genus, family or order level. This dataset will allow researchers to test the impact of edge effect on arthropod biodiversity and to investigate seasonal changes in Azorean arthropod native forest communities.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Updating the list of flower-visiting bees, hoverflies and wasps in the central atolls of Maldives, with notes on land-use effects
Maldives islands host a unique biodiversity, but their integrity is threatened by climate change and impacting land-uses (e.g. cemented or agricultural areas). As pollinators provide key services for the ecosystems and for the inhabitants, it is crucial to know which pollinators occur in the islands, to characterise their genetic identity and to understand which plants they visit and the size of the human impact. Given that no significant faunistic surveys of Hymenoptera have been published for the country in more than 100 years and that Syrphidae were only partly investigated, we sampled islands in the central part of the Maldives country (Faafu and Daahlu atolls) and hand-netted flower-visiting bees, wasps and hoverflies (Hymenoptera: Anthophila, Crabronidae, Sphecidae, Vespidae, Scoliidae and Diptera: Syrphidae). Overall, we found 21 species; 76.4% of the collected specimens were Anthophila (bees), 12.7% belonged to several families of wasps and 10.8% of individuals were Syrphidae. It seems that one third of species are new for the Maldives, based on the published literature. Human land-uses seem to shape the local pollinator fauna since the assemblages of bees, wasps and hoverflies from urbanised and agricultural islands differed from those in resort and natural ones. These pollinators visited 30 plant species in total, although some invasive plants hosted the highest number of flower visitor species. Biogeographically, this pollinating fauna is mostly shared with Sri Lanka and India. Genetically, the used marker hinted for a unique fauna in relation to the rest of the distribution ranges in most cases, although generally within the level of intraspecific genetic variation. This study significantly contributes to increasing the knowledge on the pollinator diversity and genetic identity in Maldives islands also considering the important implications for the islands' land-use and the role of invasive plants. This study will be pivotal for future pollination studies and biodiversity conservation efforts in the region.

Descriptions of a new species of genus Angarotipula and life history of Angarotipula laetipennis (Alexander, 1935) (Diptera, Tipulidae)
Angarotipula is a small genus of Tipulidae with only fourteen described species in the world and seven known species in China.Here, one new species is added to the fauna of Sichuan. The life history of Angarotipula laetipennis (Alexander, 1935) is presented and the morphologies of all stages are described.
["crane flies"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

The complete mitochondrial genome of Cacopsylla burckhardti (Hemiptera, Psylloidea, Psyllidae)
Cacopsylla burckhardti Luo, Li, Ma & Cai, 2012 (Hemiptera, Psylloidea, Psyllidae) is a pear psyllid species, distributed in the East Asia. The complete mitogenome of C. burckhardti is obtained in this study for the first time. The mitogenome of C. burckhardti is circular form and 14,798 bp long, which consists of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs and two rRNAs. The base composition is 38.80% for A, 34.89% for T, 9.99% for G and 16.33% for C, with the higher A + T contents (73.69%). The phylogenetic analysis, using 13 protein-coding genes, shows that C. burckhardti is clustered with other Cacopsylla species and nested in the Psyllidae clade within the superfamily Psylloidea.
["Cacopsylla burckhardti"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences"]

A new species of the genus Hypocharassus Mik (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) from Korea
The genus Hypocharassus Mik, 1879 has only been recorded in the Nearctic and Oriental regions and, to date, it contains four known species.Hypocharassus cavitarsus sp. n. is described from Korea. This is the first record of this genus in the Palearctic Region. A description of the new species and a key to the Hypocharassus species are presented herein.

Taxonomic and faunistic notes on the genus Trichotichnus from Korea (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Harpalinae, Harpalini)
Trichotichnus Morawitz, 1863 is a genus of the subtribe Harpalina, comprising more than 260 species worldwide. In Korea, nine species of the nominotypical subgenus are listed in the Korean catalogue (National Institute of Biological Resources 2019), while seven species of the nominotypical subgenus are listed to occur in Korea according to the Palaearctic catalogue (Kataev and Wrase 2017). Therefore, the checklist of the Korean species of the genus Trichotichnus needs to be revised.In the course of taxonomic studies on Trichotichnus species from Korea, two unrecorded species are identified: Trichotichnus (Bottchrus) nanus and Trichotichnus (Trichotichnus) vespertinus. In addition, the distribution of a poorly known species, T. (T.) miser, is firstly recognized in the southern part of Korea. Along with the description of the newly-recorded species, a checklist of the Korean species of the genus Trichotichnus is revised. As for the checklist, the distribution of T. (Iridessus) lucidus and T. (T.) leptopus in Korea is re-discussed, and T. (T.) leptopus is excluded from the Korean fauna. Lastly, additional distribution records for the following species are provided: T. (I.) lucidus, T. (T.) longitarsis, T. (T.) nishioi, and T. (T.) noctuabundus.
["ground beetles"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

The genus Pareuryaptus (Carabidae, Pterostichini) in China, with three new country records
Pareuryaptus is a genus of Carabidae containing 18 species and one subspecies, distributed mainly in the Oriental Region. However, only one species and one subspecies were recorded from China before the present study.Four species and one subspecies of Pareuryaptus are reported from China with three of them newly recorded: Pareuryaptus adoxus (Tschitschérine) from Yunnan; Pareuryaptus exiguus Dubault, Lassalle & Roux from Guangxi; and Pareuryaptus luangphabangensis Kirschenhofer from Yunnan. Moreover, the male of Pareuryaptus exiguus Dubault, Lassalle & Roux is firstly described and a key to all known Chinese species is provided.
["Trigonotomina"]

Raveniola yangren sp. n., a new troglobiontic spider from Hunan, China (Araneae, Nemesiidae)
Troglomorphism is rare known in Mygalomorphae. Only three troglomorphic mygalomorphs have been recorded in China: Raveniola beelzebub Lin & Li, 2020, R. lamia Yu & Zhang, 2021 and Sinopesa gollum Lin & Li, 2021.A new troglobiontic species of the genus Raveniola is described from China: R. yangren sp. n. (female) from Hunan. Photos and morphological description of the new species are given.This new species has elongated appendages and degenerated eyes in order to adapt to the cave environment. It can be distinguished by the stubby, unbranched spermathecae from other Raveniola.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Formerly considered rare, the ant species Cryptopone ochracea (Mayr, 1855) can be commonly detected using citizen-science tools
Citizen science is a valuable tool for monitoring different species, especially in cases concerning truly rare and difficult-to-detect species where time-consuming field studies are limited and long-term research projects are uncertain. To better understand the distribution of the rarely collected Cryptopone ochracea (Mayr, 1855) (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in Hungary, we obtained the occurrence data with photos uploaded by non-professionals to the page of the largest Hungarian Facebook group dealing with ants and a citizen-science website dealing with biological data collection. In this article, we expand the known distribution of C. ochracea to include 46 new records from Hungary and one from Serbia. With two historical records, this previously undersampled species has now been found 48 times in Hungary. Our results prove that social media platforms and other websites for citizen science projects offer new and useful opportunities for researchers to involve non-professionals in scientific work and, thus, obtain large amounts of valuable data, even for understudied arthropod species.
["ants"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies"]

First record of the fungal genus Neodevriesia Quaedvl. & Crous (Ascomycota, Dothideomycetes, Neodevriesiaceae) isolated from scleractinian corals of Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
Fungal species members of the genus Neodevriesia have been known to occur in marine environments. This report documents the first record of the fungal genus Neodevriesia isolated from scleractinian corals. Three isolated strains were identified from a phylogenetic tree that was constructed, based on the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer and partial large subunit (ITS + LSU) DNA sequences. Isolates were closely related to both Neodevriesia shakazului (Crous) Crous and Neodevriesia queenslandica (Crous, R.G. Shivas & McTaggart) Crous, but formed a distinct clade with strong support that implies a potentially genetic variant of a known species or even a novel species. These findings contribute to the fungal diversity checklist in Malaysia and knowledge about marine fungi associated with scleractinian corals.
["marine fungi"]

Synema guiyang sp. nov., the fourth endemic species of Synema Simon, 1864 (Araneae, Thomisidae) from China
Synema Simon, 1864 is a relatively large genus of family Thomisidae Sundevall, 1833 and currently includes 124 species distributed worldwide, except for the Polar Regions. However, Synema can be regarded as being poorly represented in China, with only seven species, three of which are endemic.A new spider species of the genus Synema from Guiyang City in China, is described under the name of S. guiyang J. Zhang, Q. Lu & H. Yu, sp. nov. Detailed descriptions and photographs of the new species are provided. DNA barcodes (a partial fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene, COI) of the species were obtained to confirm matching of the sexes and for future use in molecular studies.
["crab spiders"]

A newly-recorded species of the genus Ablemma Roewer, 1963 (Araneae, Tetrablemmidae) from China
Ablemma Roewer, 1963 is a species-rich genus of the family Tetrablemmidae O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1873, currently comprising 28 known species. This genus is mainly distributed in Southeast Asia. Currently, only one species, A. prominens Tong & Li, 2008 is known to occur in China.The species Ablemma shimojanai (Komatsu, 1968), presently only known from the Ryuku Islands in Japan, is reported from China for the first time on the basis of material collected in Guangdong Province. A morphological description and detailed images are provided.

First record of the genus Plynnon Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 from China, with the description of a new species (Araneae, Phrurolithidae)
Plynnon Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 is a small phrurolithid spider genus distributed in Southeast Asia, with three currently known species: P. longitarse Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 and P. zborowskii Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 from Borneo and P. jaegeri Deeleman-Reinhold, 2001 from Sumatra.Plynnon aduncum sp. n. (♂, ♀) from Yunnan Province, China is described, representing the northernmost record for the genus. Illustrations and morphological descriptions are provided.

First record of the genus Arabelia Bosselaers, 2009 from China, with description of one new species (Araneae, Liocranidae)
The spider family Liocranidae Simon, 1897 contains 35 genera and 308 species, including six genera and 33 species reported in China, which are: Agroeca Westring, 1861 (13 species), Jacaena Thorell, 1897 (7 species), Mesiotelus Simon, 1897 (1 species), Oedignatha Thorell, 1881 (2 species), Paratus Simon, 1898 (4 species), Sesieutes Simon, 1897 (1 species) and Sphingius Thorell, 1890 (5 species).The spider genus Arabelia Bosselaers, 2009 is described from China for the first time, with one new species Arabelia xizang sp. nov.

Description of Perithreticus neglectus sp. n. from the West Usambara Mountains, Tanzania (Diptera, Psychodidae)
The Psychodinae of the Afrotropical Region remain poorly understood. Slightly under 200 species have been described, but many countries have received very little attention from collectors and even countries where significant collection efforts have taken place have rarely had their collections studied in detail by specialist taxonomists.Perithreticus neglectus sp. n. is described from the West Usambara Mountains, Tanzania, based on a male specimen collected in 1990. The new species is similar to Perithreticus anderseni Kvifte, 2015, which occurs in the same forest reserve, but can be separated by several genitalic characters, including the hypandrium well-developed with sclerotised anterior and posterior margins, gonocoxites narrower, the gonostyles with the slender apex shorter, the parameres shorter without pronounced basolateral projections and the surstylus with slightly fewer tenacula. The world fauna of Perithreticus now comprises five described species, of which two occur in the Afrotropical Region.
["Psychodidae"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Description of Tabanus rondoniensis (Diptera: Tabanidae), a new species of horsefly from the State of Rondônia, Brazil
The genus Tabanus Linnaeus has a worldwide distribution and is the richest in species; however, it is probably not monophyletic. In the Neotropical Region, its richness is certainly underestimated, mainly due to the large number of species and the absence of recent taxonomic revisions.We describe Tabanus rondoniensis sp. n. from the State of Rondônia, Brazil, based on a conspicuous tabanid species possibly related to the T. nebulosus species group. Diagnosis, discussion and illustrations are also provided.
["Tabanini"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant and animal studies"]

Thirty-two new and noteworthy floristic records from north-eastern Greece
The vascular flora of Greece comprises no less than 6,705 vascular plant taxa (species and subspecies, including established aliens) in an area of 131,957 km2. The phytogeographic region of north-east Greece (NE), an area characterised by physiographic diversity, is the richest floristic region in Greece, yet it remains less-explored compared to other regions.We present an annotated inventory of 32 vascular plant taxa collected predominantly from the East Macedonia and Thrace Regions (Makedonia and Thraki, NE Greece), following fieldwork that took place between 2013 and 2021. In our results, we identify seven new additions to the Greek flora (Aethionema saxatile subsp. rhodopaeum, Anthericum ramosum, Aster amellus, Euphorbia carniolica, Hesperis matronalis subsp. matronalis, Saponaria stranjensis and Silene fetlerii) and 25 new records to the regional Greek flora consisting of mostly rare Balkan endemics of a restricted distribution and presumable conservation priorities. Taxonomic comments are added, where necessary. IUCN threat categories are assigned to certain taxa. Our investigation highlights the importance of the Balkan border areas as a source of new floristic elements for single countries and points to the importance of range-restricted taxa, in addition to single-country endemics, to address plants with a narrow distribution pattern.
["Balkan countries"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

First record of Urostylis hubeiensis Ren (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Urostylididae) from Japan, with an illustrated key to the Japanese urostylidid species
Although the Japanese species of Urostylididae are of interest to not only heteropteran taxonomists, but also to the public, an illustrated key for all species of the family from the country is lacking. To date, the urostylidid species Urostylis hubeiensis Ren, 1997, has been known to occur in China and Korea, but not in Japan.Urostylis hubeiensis is recorded from Japan for the first time and represents the easternmost occurrence of this species. In Japan, it inhabits the broad-leaved forest of Tsushima Island and was found on Quercus acutissima Carruth. (Fagaceae). An illustrated key to the species of Urostylididae occurring in Japan is provided.

A new species of Validifemur Ma, Song & Zhu, 2007 (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae) from northwest China
The myriapod fauna of China is still poorly known and very little attention has been paid to the study of Lithobiomorpha, with only more 100 species/subspecies hitherto known from the country, amongst which are only three species of Validifemur. Here we are describing a new species from northwest China.A new lithobiid species, Validifemur radispinipes sp. n., is described and illustrated from Wolong Mountain Park, Jingyuan County, Guyuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, northwest China. The new species is compared with V. pedodontus Ma, Song & Zhu, 2007 from Shaanxi Province, China. Type specimens are deposited in the Institute of Myriapodology, School of Life Sciences, Hengshui University, Hengshui, China.
["Lithobiomorpha"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies"]

A new species of the genus Sweltsa Ricker, 1943 (Plecoptera, Chloroperlidae) from Guizhou Province, China
Sweltsa is a genus of green stoneflies in the family Chloroperlidae and is distributed throughout the Nearctic and East Palaearctic Regions. As they are sensitive to pollutants, they are often used as an indicator species for determining the quality of water bodies. There are around 57 species of this genus worldwide and 11 of those have been identified from China.A new species of the Alloperlini genus Sweltsa Ricker, 1943, Sweltsa ligula Rehman, Huo & Du sp. n. is described from Kuankuoshui National Natural Reserve, Suiyang County, Guizhou Province, southwest China. This is the first report of the family Chloroperlidae from Guizhou Province. Diagnosis, description of male, female and nymph, illustration of terminalia and similarities with closely-related species are provided and discussed.

Survey of medium- and large-sized mammals in Atlantic Forest remnants of Conceição dos Ouros, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Conceição dos Ouros is located in the Mantiqueira mountain range (elevation: 831‒1443 m a.s.l.), State of Minas Gerais, southeast Brazil. The largest two Atlantic Forest remnants of the Municipality of Conceição dos Ouros total more than 2,000 ha and the main vegetation type is seasonal semi-deciduous forest, isolated by a matrix of agricultural fields and pasture. The Municipality does not have any protected areas and is located in a highly fragmented region, albeit considered of special importance for the conservation of terrestrial vertebrates in the State of Minas Gerais. Due to a cooperation with the Municipality of Conceição dos Ouros to carry out a survey of the local biodiversity, in this study we present the results of the survey of medium- and large-sized terrestrial mammals from the two forest remnants in the region. Sampling was performed from July 2019 to August 2021 and comprised a camera trap survey, active searching including direct (e.g. carcass sightings) and indirect (e.g. footprints and faeces) evidence of species presence and interviews with residents. Twenty-nine native and two non-native species were documented. Ten species are in some category of threat of extinction at regional, national or global levels. This is the first survey of the terrestrial mammal fauna in the area of Conceição dos Ouros and results could be helpful in designing conservation strategies at the local scale.
["Camera traps"]
["Zoonotic diseases and public health", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

A new species of the spider genus Selenocosmia (Araneae, Theraphosidae) from Fujian, China
The genus Selenocosmia Ausserer, 1871 includes 39 species. Five species were known from China. This genus has not been found in south-eastern China.A new species of the genus Selenocosmia Ausserer, 1871 is described from China: Selenocosmia zhangzhengi Lin, sp. n. from Fujian. Photos and a morphological description of the new species are given. The type specimen of the new species is deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beiing (IZCAS).
["Spider", "China", "Genus", "Type (biology)", "Type species", "Taxonomy (biology)"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

Curvicladiella paphiopedili sp. nov. (Hypocreales, Nectriaceae), a new species of orchid (Paphiopedilum sp.) from Guizhou, China
An asexual fungus, collected from diseased leaves of Paphiopedilum sp. from Guizhou Province, China, and based on the phylogenetic analyses and morphological characters, it was identified as a new species in Curvicladiella. The genus Curvicladiella are recorded for the first time for China.The morphology of Curvicladiella paphiopedili sp. nov. is characterised by penicillate conidiophores with a stipe, dull, tapering towards the apex, the curved stipe extension and cylindrical conidia. In the phylogenetic analyses of combined cmdA, his3, ITS, LSU, tef1 and tub2 sequence data, this taxon was clustered as sister to Curvicladiella cignea within Nectriaceae.
["Curvicladiella"]

Fine-scale abundance of rocky shore macroalgae species with distribution limits in NW Iberia in 2020/2021
Climate change has been increasing at an unprecedented rate in the last decades. Global warming has been causing a variety of impacts in marine ecosystems, including shifts in the geographical ranges of species. The north-western Iberian Peninsula coast is particularly interesting to study distribution shifts as it features a strong latitude thermal gradient, establishing a biogeographical transitional region where several cold- and warm-adapted species have their equatorward or poleward distributions. In the early 2000s, it appeared that, while warm-water species were already responding to warming, cold-water species did not display a coherent response. It is now necessary to gather up-to-date data on the distribution of the same group of species to understand if current patterns of change confirm or deny those observed back then, which may give us important clues about the mechanisms setting species limits in the area.This study provides a fine-scale description of the occurrence of intertidal macroalgae species in the rocky shores of the north-western Iberian coast. Specifically, the spatial distribution and semi-quantitative abundance of 34 native and invasive species were assessed at 70 wave-exposed locations. This included 19 species of cold-water affinity, 10 species of warm-water affinity and five neutral species. When contrasted with historical observations, these new data can be used to quantify and map biodiversity change in the region, as well as help understanding the mechanisms constraining species distributions.
["north-western Iberia"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

A confirmed feeding attempt by the haematophagous horse fly Philoliche (Philoliche) rondani (Bertoloni, 1861) (Diptera: Tabanidae) on fresh carrion
Many flies have specially evolved feeding mechanisms to imbibe liquids of specific viscosities. Observations of feeding on atypical liquids are notable because of their rarity.We report the first record of intrusive fluid feeding on vertebrate carrion by Philoliche rondani.
["feeding evolution"]
["Trypanosoma species research and implications", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Pljushtchia argoi sp. n., a new geometrid moth from the Western Tien Shan Mountains (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae)
This paper focuses on the morphological description and illustration of the wing pattern and genitalia structures of the known species of the genus Pljushtchia. The possibility of co-evolution of Pljushtchia moths and fruit tree forests of Tien Shan is discussed. The maple tree is supposed to have evolved in the Ili River valley in NW China and in Kazakhstan. Malus sieversii, the wild apple tree, is distributed in Miocene nemoral forest belt to Europe in the West an to western North America in the East. The last remnants of fruit tree forests are now localised in biodiversity hotspots in China and in Middle Asian mountains.This paper provides a description of a new species of geometrid moth, Pljushtchia argoi sp. n. As the ancestral Malus sieversii has diverged in Malus silvestris in Europe, Malus turkestanica in Kyrgyzstan and Malus hissarica in Tajikistan, a co-divergence of geometrid moths and their food plants is possible. We found Chlorissa arkitensis Viidalepp in the Chatkal area, Tien Shan, its sister species Chlorissa talvei Viidalepp in Hissar and Pamirs and Chlorissa pretiosaria Staudinger in Transcaucasus. Pljushtchia prima is associated with a biodiversity hotspot in Tajikistan and Pljushtchia argoi with another biodiversity hotspot in southern Tien Shan.

SLAM Project - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the Natural Forest of Azores: II - A survey of exotic arthropods in disturbed forest habitats
The data we present consist of an inventory of exotic arthropods, potentially invasive, collected in exotic and mixed forests and disturbed native forest patches of the Azores Archipelago. The study was carried out between 2019 and 2020 in four islands: Corvo, Flores, Terceira and Santa Maria, where a total of 45 passive flight interception SLAM traps were deployed, during three to six consecutive months. This manuscript is the second contribution of the “SLAM Project - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the Natural Forest of Azores”.We provide an inventory of terrestrial arthropods belonging to Arachnida, Diplopoda, Chilopoda and Insecta classes from four Azorean islands. We identified a total of 21,175 specimens, belonging to 20 orders, 93 families and 249 species of arthropods. A total of 125 species are considered introduced, 89 native non-endemic and 35 endemic. We registered 34 new records (nine for Corvo, three for Flores, six for Terceira and 16 for Santa Maria), of which five are new for Azores, being all exotic possibly recently introduced: Dieckmanniellus nitidulus (Gyllenhal, 1838), Gronops fasciatus Küster, 1851, Hadroplontus trimaculatus (Fabricius, 1775), Hypurus bertrandi (Perris, 1852) (all Coleoptera, Curculionidae) and Cardiocondyla mauritanica Forel, 1890 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae). This publication highlights the importance of planted forests and disturbed native forest patches as reservoirs of potentially invasive arthropods and refuges for some rare relict endemic arthropod species.
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Faunistic study of butterflies (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) of Sulaymaniyah Province, Kurdistan-Iraq
This study investigates the butterfly fauna (Lepidoptera, Papilionoidea) of Sulaymaniyah Province, in Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Investigations were carried out between April 2016 and April 2021, during which butterfly specimens were collected from 34 different localities throughout Sulaymaniyah Province. The collected butterflies belonged to 103 species within five families: five species of Papilionidae, 19 species of Hesperiidae, 18 species of Pieridae, 25 species of Lycaenidae and 36 species of Nymphalidae.Eight species, Carcharodus stauderi Reverdin, 1913, Thymelicus hyrax Lederer, 1861, Gonepteryx rhamni (Linnaeus, 1758) Pieris krueperi Staudinger, 1860, Colias erate Esper, 1803, Polyommatus thersites (Cantener, 1835), Brenthis mofidii Wyatt, 1968 and Pseudochazara mamurra Herrich-Schäffer, 1852 have been added as new records to the fauna of Iraqi butterflies.
["butterflies"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

A new species of the tarantula genus Haplocosmia (Araneae, Theraphosidae) from Tibet, China
Haplocosmia Schmidt & von Wirth, 1996 is a small genus distributed in the Himalayas that includes two species. This genus has not been found in China (Li et al. 2021, Yao et al. 2021, Zhao et al. 2022).A new species of the genus Haplocosmia is described from China: Haplocosmia sherwoodae sp. n. from Tibet. Photos and a morphological description of the new species are given. The type specimen of the new species is deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing (IZCAS).
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

First record of the family Issidae (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha, Fulgoroidea) from the Hawaiian Islands
Euroxenus vayssieresi (Bonfils, Attie & Reynaud, 2001) (Issinae, Sarimini) was described (in the genus Borbonissus Bonfils, Attie & Reynaud, 2001) from Réunion Island, in the Indian Ocean and, previous to this report, has not been recorded elsewhere. Euroxenus vayssieresi is here illustrated and re-described to improved taxonomic diagnosis.Euroxenus vayssieresi is recorded for the first time from the Island of Hawaii in the Hawaiian Archipelago. This is first record of the family Issidae from the Hawaiian Archipelago.
["Issidae"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy", "Research on scale insects"]

Toward an atlas of Salish Sea biodiversity: the flora and fauna of Galiano Island, British Columbia, Canada. Part I. Marine zoology
Based on records dating from 1859 to 2021, we provide an overview of the marine animal diversity reported for Galiano Island, British Columbia, Canada. More than 650 taxa are represented by 20,000 species occurrence records in this curated dataset, which includes dive records documented through the Pacific Marine Life Surveys, museum voucher specimens, ecological data and crowd-sourced observations from the BC Cetacean Sightings Network and iNaturalist.We describe Galiano Island's marine animal diversity in relation to the Salish Sea's overall biodiversity and quantify the proportional contributions of different types of sampling effort to our current local knowledge. Overviews are provided for each taxonomic group in a format intended to be accessible to amateur naturalists interested in furthering research into the region's marine biodiversity. In summary, we find that the Pacific Marine Life Surveys, a regional community science diving initiative, account for 60% of novel records reported for Galiano Island. Voucher specimens account for 19% and crowd-sourced biodiversity data 18% of novel records, respectively, with the remaining 3% of reports coming from other sources. These findings shed light on the complementarity of different types of sampling effort and demonstrate the potential for community science to contribute to the global biodiversity research community. We present a biodiversity informatics framework that is designed to enable these practices by supporting collaboration among researchers and communities in the collection, curation and dissemination of biodiversity data.
["Salish Sea"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Marine animal studies overview"]

Distribution and identification of the species in the genus Helicops Wagler, 1830 (Serpentes, Colubridae, Xenodontinae)
The aquatic snakes of the genus Helicops are widely distributed throughout northern South America, but understudied concerning some aspects, including morphological traits and distribution. The most recent publication that provided an identification key to all species of Helicops is over 50 years old. This key is of limited value today since it includes taxa no longer recognised and lacks 8 of the 19 species currently recognised. There never was a publication trying to summarise distributional and morphological information of all species of Helicops. Most knowledge of these species is distributed throughout many small publications, such as short observation notes.Here, we present distribution maps (point records), an identification key and comments on identification for all species in this genus. We base our results on a comprehensive literature review of over 300 scientific publications and own examinations. Our examinations comprise 190 specimens of 10 of the 19 currently recognised species and one Helicops sp. We report range extensions for the species H. danieli, H. infrataeniatus, H. leopardinus, H. pastazae and H. polylepis.
["annotated list"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Inventory and DNA-barcode library of ground-dwelling predatory arthropods from Krokar virgin forest, Slovenia
At a time of immense human pressure on nature and the resulting global environmental changes, the inventory of biota - especially of undisturbed natural areas - is of unprecedented value as it provides a baseline for future research. Krokar, an example of such an undisturbed area, is the largest virgin forest remnant in Slovenia. It is located in the Dinaric Alps, which are believed to harbour the most diverse fauna of soil invertebrates in Europe. Nevertheless, the soil fauna of the Krokar virgin forest has not been thoroughly studied. Moreover, modern taxonomic approaches often rely on genetic information (e.g. DNA-barcodes), while extensive reference libraries from the Dinaric area are lacking. Our work, therefore, focused on addressing this lack of faunistic and genetic data from the Dinaric area.A total of 2336 specimens belonging to 100 taxa (45 spiders, 30 centipedes, 25 ground-dwelling beetles) were collected and deposited to GBIF. DNA-barcodes of 124 specimens belonging to 73 species were successfully obtained and deposited in GenBank and BOLD databases.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Decaisnina tomentosa (Loranthaceae), a new species of mistletoe from Samar Island, Philippines
The extensive forests over limestone of the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) on Samar Island, Philippines harbour a rich variety of unique species. In this contribution, we describe and illustrate a new Loranthaceous mistletoe, endemic to Samar Island named Decaisnina tomentosa, representing the 12th member of the genus reported to the Philippines.This new species is similar to D. confertiflora (Merr.) Barlow with respect to the presence of shortly and densely off-white tomentose inflorescence and 6-merous flowers. However, it is unique amongst congeners in having tomentose and partially fused bracteoles which cover almost or entirely the ovary of individual flowers in the triads. To date, D. tomentosa seems to be restricted to the SINP and is only known from a handful of individuals. More studies are needed to properly assess the demography, host range, conservation status and phylogenetic position of this distinctive species of mistletoe.
["forest over limestone"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Diversity and abundance of soil macroinvertebrates along a contamination gradient in the Central Urals, Russia
Since the late 1980s, long-term monitoring of terrestrial ecosystems in metal-contaminated areas near the Middle Ural Copper Smelter has been carried out in the Central Urals. As a part of these monitoring programmes, the data on species diversity, community composition and abundance of soil macroinvertebrates continue to be gathered.The dataset (available from the GBIF network at includes a 2004 census for soil macroinvertebrates of spruce-fir forests along a pollution gradient in the Central Urals. The dataset describes soil macrofauna’s abundance (the number of individuals per sample, i.e. the density) and community structure (list of supraspecific taxa, list of species for most abundant taxa and supraspecific taxa or species abundance). Seventeen sampling plots differed in the levels of toxic metal (Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd and Fe) soil contamination from air emissions of the Middle Ural Copper Smelter (heavily polluted, moderately polluted and unpolluted areas). The dataset consists of 340 sampling events (= samples corresponding to upper and lower layers of the 170 soil monoliths) and 64658 rows (2907 and 61751 for non-zero and zero density of taxa, respectively). Arachnida (Araneae and Opiliones), Carabidae (imagoes), Elateridae (larvae), Chilopoda, Diplopoda, Gastropoda, Staphylinidae (imagoes) and Lumbricidae were identified to species level. In contrast, Mermithida, Enchytraeidae, Lepidoptera larvae, Diptera larvae, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera and some other insects were identified to family or order levels. In total, 8430 individuals of soil macroinvertebrates were collected in two soil layers (organic and organic-mineral horizons), including 1046 Arachnida (spiders and harvestmen), 45 Carabidae, 300 Elateridae, 529 Myriapoda, 741 Gastropoda, 437 Staphylinidae, 623 Lumbricidae and 4709 other invertebrates. The presence-absence data on each taxon are provided for each sampling event. An overwhelming majority of such absences can be interpreted as “pseudo-absences” at the scale of sampling plots or study sites. The dataset contains information helpful for long-term ecotoxicological monitoring of forest ecosystems and contributes to studying soil macrofauna diversity in the Urals.
["soil macrofauna"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Heavy metals in environment"]

A new species of Pholcus yichengicus species-group (Araneae, Pholcidae) from Hebei Province, China
The Pholcus yichengicus species-group currently contains 37 species. It is distributed in central and south-eastern China and Thailand, except for P. guani Song & Ren, 1994 from Liaoning Province, north-eastern China and P. clavatus Schenkel, 1936 which is widely distributed in the country.Pholcus bajia sp. nov. is described as a new species of the P. yichengicus species-group collected from Hebei Province, China.

A new toad species of the genus Brachytarsophrys Tian & Hu, 1983 (Anura, Megophryidae) from Guizhou Province, China
The toads of the genus Brachytarsophrys Tian & Hu, 1983 are distributed in southern China, Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos and northern Thailand. Seven species of the genus have been recognised, of which five of them are known from China so far.Brachytarsophrys qiannanensis sp. nov., a new species of the short-legged toad genus is here described from southern Guizhou Province, China. Diagnostic characters of the new species are illustrated and comparisons with its congeners are provided. Its validity is also affirmed by its distinct mitochondrial gene sequence divergence with all congeners and its monophyly recovered in the mitochondrial gene-based phylogenetic analyses.
["Megophryidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Aquatic macroinvertebrates in Madeira Island (Portugal) streams: diversity and distribution
The Madeira Island (Portugal; 32°24’–33°07’N, 16°16–17°16’W; 796 km2) is an oceanic island located in the North Atlantic, about 980 km south of Portugal and about 700 km west of the African coast. The presence of freshwater invertebrates in oceanic islands has always raised questions concerning dispersal, colonisation and evolution. Therefore, the freshwater fauna of Madeira Island has attracted the interest of many researchers in the past, the first publications going back to the nineteenth century. Initial studies were mainly taxonomic, resulting in a checklist of the Madeira freshwater macroinvertebrates with 240 taxa. As typical from oceanic islands, freshwater invertebrates are characterised by low diversity, with some taxonomic groups absent. Although freshwater Madeiran macroinvertebrates are a well-studied group, geographical information of diversity distribution is still scarce. Therefore, more studies are needed, especially georeferenced data of diversity and distribution of macroinvertebrate assemblages, to provide valuable information for improving knowledge and the development of typologically appropriate monitoring and conservation programmes and restoration strategies for local stakeholders.The results of the present study revealed 713 occurrences in 40 sampling points in Madeira Island streams. The occurrence data showed 70 different aquatic taxa belonging to 21 orders and 53 families. Amongst our occurrence data, 15 endemic taxa (22.1%) from Madeira Archipelago were found. In addition, different families of Collembola and different taxa of Copepoda (Onychiuridae, Poduridae, Isotomidae, Entomobryidae, Sminthuridae) comprised new records for the Madeira streams. Therefore, further taxonomic and ecological studies on freshwater invertebrates from Madeira Island should be done with a particular focus on these lesser-known groups. Thus, our data increase the geographical data distribution of freshwater macroinvertebrates and their diversity in Madeira Island. This database is an update of geographical information of diversity distribution of Madeira freshwater macroinvertebrates known groups. This information is essential for a better understanding of community composition, diversity, occurrence or spatial distribution, which will help explore different research questions on different research areas, such as community ecology and biogeography.
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Pseudidothea armata sp. n., a new isopod of the genus Pseudidothea (Crustacea, Malacostraca, Isopoda) from the Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean
In the framework of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) Expedion JR 15005 SO-AntEco, held in February-March 2016, the South Orkney Islands seafloor was sampled in order to investigate the distribution and composition of benthic communities around the area.A new species of the genus Pseudidothea Ohlin, 1901 is described from the Burdwood Bank area (South Orkney Islands). It has been collected during the SO-AntEco JR15005 RRS James Clark Ross expedition under the lead of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). The new species, Pseudidothea armata sp. n., is very similar to P. scutata (Stephensen, 1947); however, it is characterised by peculiar supra-ocular spines and a different tubercular pattern. The study of the species of the Pseudidothea helps to better understand the diversity of the Pseudidotheidae in the Southern Ocean.
["Southern Ocean"]

Neomonodictys aquatica sp. nov. (Pleurotheciaceae) from a plateau lake in Yunnan Province, China
In this study, a new species Neomonodictys aquatica was collected from submerged decaying wood in Erhai Lake, Yunnan Province, China.Neomonodictys aquatica is characterised by acrogenous, solitary, oval, dictyospores (most are transverse septum, occasionally vertical septum, in immaturity the septum is clear, but when mature, the conidia becomes darker so the septum is not clear), smooth-walled conidia. The immature conidia are usually hyaline to olivaceous and mature conidia are usually darkened to black, sometimes with one pale basal cell. Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS and LSU sequence data showed that the new collection is distinct from other Neomonodictys species. Description and illustration are provided as well.
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Diatoms and Algae Research", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

New records of amphibians from Bac Kan Province, Vietnam
Since the establishment of the Nam Xuan Lac Habitat and Species Conservation Area in 2003 in Bac Kan Province, northern Vietnam, only two herpetological studies have been conducted: One recorded 14 species of amphibians from Ban Thi-Xuan Lac area in 2004 and a recent study reported 32 species of amphibians from this protected area in 2019.As a result of our field surveys in 2020 and 2021, a total of 23 species of amphibians was recorded from the Nam Xuan Lac Habitat and Species Conservation Area. Eight of them are recorded for the first time from Bac Kan Province, comprising one species of Microhylidae, two species of Megophryidae, one species of Dicroglossidae, two species of Ranidae and two species of Rhacophoridae. Besides morphological descriptions, we provide ecological notes of newly-recorded species of amphibians from Bac Kan Province.
["Nam Xuan Lac"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Benthic macroinvertebrates assemblages of glacial-fed (Bheri) and rain-fed (Babai) rivers in western Nepal in the wake of proposed inter-basin water transfer
Benthic macroinvertebrates, encompassing large taxonomic groups of invertebrate organisms, are important components of aquatic ecosystems and play crucial roles in aquatic food webs. These organisms are also extensively used in water quality assessments as bioindicators for a range of stressors. Inter-basin water transfer (IBWT) is the transfer of water from a donor basin to a recipient basin and such transfers have both beneficial as well as adverse environmental and socio-economic impacts. This study attempts to generate baseline information on macroinvertebrates assemblages in glacial-fed (Bheri) and rain-fed (Babai) rivers of west Nepal, where Nepal’s first ever inter-basin transfer is in progress and the data can be used to assess the impact of inter-basin water transfer on water quality and aquatic biodiversity after completion.The dataset includes the records on the taxonomic diversity of macroinvertebrate in the Bheri and the Babai River systems. A total of 56 families of macroinvertebrates belonging to eight classes and four phyla were observed. A significant variation between the glacial-fed and rain-fed and seasons were observed reflecting different ecological zones and abiotic variables in the rivers and their catchments. Hydropsychidae and Baetidae were reported to be the most abundant taxa in the Bheri River system, whereas Gyrinidae, Physidae, Chironomidae and Hydropsychidae were most abundant taxa in the Babai River system.
["macroinvertebrates"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

First record of Calotes vindumbarbatus Wagner, Ihlow, Hartmann, Flecks, Schmitz & Böhme, 2021 (Squamata: Agamidae) from China, with revised diagnosis of this species
Three new species were recently described from the Calotes mystaceus Duméril & Bibron, 1837 complex. Of the three new species, C. vindumbarbatus Wagner, Ihlow, Hartmann, Flecks, Schmitz & Böhme, 2021 was known only from northern Myanmar.Seven specimens of lizard were collected from Tongbiguan Nature Reserve, western Yunnan, China. Phylogenetically, these specimens clustered with the type specimens of Calotes vindumbarbatus from Myanmar with strong support and showed inappreciable genetic divergence from the type specimens of C. vindumbarbatus. We report the first country record of C. vindumbarbatus from China. In addition, a supplementary description, based on the newly-collected specimens and revised diagnosis of this species, was provided.
["Agamidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New records of the critically endangered fern Grammitis azorica (Polypodiaceae)
["Critically endangered", "Fern", "Endangered species", "Range (aeronautics)", "Biodiversity"]

An individual-based dataset of carbon and nitrogen isotopic data of Callinectes sapidus in invaded Mediterranean waters
The characterisation of functional traits of non-indigenous and invasive species is crucial to assess their impact within invaded habitats. Successful biological invasions are often facilitated by the generalist diet of the invaders which can modify their trophic position and adapt to new ecosystems determining changes in their structure and functioning. Invasive crustaceans are an illustrative example of such mechanisms since their trophic habits can determine important ecological impacts on aquatic food webs. The Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus is currently established and considered invasive in the Mediterranean Sea where it has been recorded for the first time between 1947 and 1949. In the last decade, the blue crab colonised most of the eastern and central Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea and it is currently widening its distribution towards the western region of the basin.Stable isotope analysis is increasingly used to investigate the trophic habits of invasive marine species. Here, we collated individual measures of the blue crab δ13C and δ15N values and of its potential invertebrate prey into a geo-referenced dataset. The dataset includes 360 records with 236 isotopic values of the blue crab and 224 isotopic data of potential prey collected from five countries and 12 locations between 2014 and 2019. This dataset allows the estimation of the trophic position of the blue crab within a variety of invaded ecosystems, as well as advanced quantitative comparisons of the main features of its isotopic niche.
["invasive species"]
["Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Crustacean biology and ecology"]

First description of the male of Cyclocosmia ricketti (Araneae, Halonoproctidae) from China
The genus Cyclocosmia Ausserer, 1871 of the spider family Halonoproctidae Pocock, 1901 includes ten known species from North America and Asia. Since Cyclocosmia ricketti was described by Pocock in 1901, no males of this species have ever been reported.The male of Cyclocosmia ricketti is described for the first time, based on a specimen collected near the type locality in Fujian Province, China. A morphological description and illustrations are given.
["Fujian"]

A new genus and species of leptonetid spiders (Araneae, Leptonetidae) from Guangdong Province, China
The spider family Leptonetidae Simon, 1890 includes 20 genera and 366 species from North America, the Mediterranean Region and Asia. Currently, 132 species belonging to six genera have been recorded in China.A new genus and species of leptonetid spiders, Yueleptoneta dongxing gen. et sp. n., is described from Guangdong Province, China. Yueleptoneta gen. n. is distinct from the other genera in the chelicerae having the stridulatory file on the lateral margin and the male palp having a tarsal spur, lacking strong spines or apophyses on the femur and tibia.

Ground beetles (Carabidae) in urban habitats of Kaluga City (Russia)
Ground beetles (Carabidae, Coleoptera) are one of the most species-rich and well-studied insect families. However, the number of published datasets is disproportionately low against the biodiversity of this group. According to GBIF, only a fifth of the percentage of all published data covers ground beetles. This article describes a sampling-event dataset providing primary data on ground beetles collected in urban and suburban habitats in Kaluga, a typical central Russian city. We surveyed habitats of different land-use types and the extent and intensity of anthropogenic influence: yards, gardens, quarries, small urban woodlands, grasslands and riparian habitats. Carabids were collected by pitfall traps during most of the vegetative season (mostly from late April - early May to at least early October) for 13 seasons between 1994 and 2015. In total, the dataset contains 189 carabid species and 79,091 specimens. The dataset provides information about species composition and abundance, habitat distribution, seasonal and long-term dynamics of carabid beetles in environments of different degrees of urbanisation.This dataset is the first sampling-event dataset about carabids in various urban habitats published through GBIF.
["broadleaved forests"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Small mammals of background areas in the vicinity of the Karabash copper smelter (Southern Urals, Russia)
The dataset contains records of small mammals (Eulipotyphla and Rodentia) collected in the background (unpolluted) areas in the vicinity of Karabash copper smelter (Southern Urals, Russia) and the territory of the Sultanovskoye deposit of copper-pyrite ores before the start of its development. Data were collected during the snowless periods in 2007 (18 sampling plots), 2008–2010 (13 plots annually), 2011 (30 plots) and 2012–2014 (19 plots annually). The capture of animals was carried out in different types of forests (pine, birch, mixed and floodplain), sparse birch stands, reed swamps, marshy and dry meadows, border areas, a household waste dump, areas of ruderal vegetation and a temporary camp. Our study of small mammals was conducted using trap lines (snap and live traps). During the study period, 709 specimens of small mammals were caught, which belonged to five species of shrews and 13 species of rodents. The dataset may be highly useful for studying regional fauna and the distribution of species in different habitats and could also be used as reference values for environmental monitoring and conservation activities.Our dataset contains new information on occurrences of small mammals. It includes the peculiarities of their habitat distribution in the background areas in the vicinity of the large copper smelter and the deposit of copper-pyrite ores before the start of its development (Chelyabinsk Oblast, Russia). All occurrence records of 18 mammal species with georeferencing have been published in GBIF.
["data paper"]
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

New records in non-native vascular plants of Russian Lapland
The non-native vascular plants of Murmansk Region (European Russia) are under active investigation towards the compilation of the first complete checklist. This work is part of the project 'Flora of Russian Lapland', which ultimately aims at the complete inventory of the taxonomy, distribution and status of vascular plant species in Murmansk Region, based on the comprehensive database of herbarium specimens, field observations and literature.New territory-level records of non-native vascular plants emerged during our inventory of herbarium collections and recent fieldwork. Fourteen species (Anthemis ruthenica, Aruncus dioicus, Bromus commutatus, Chaerophyllum hirsutum, Galega orientalis, Geum aleppicum, Leonurus quinquelobatus, Lepidium densiflorum, Levisticum officinale, Myrrhis odorata, Phleum phleoides, Prunus armeniaca, Rorippa sylvestris, Senecio vernalis) are reported as new to Murmansk Region. The historical occurrences of alien plants appeared in the territory largely as contaminants (of seed or forage). In particular, Rorippa sylvestris and Senecio vernalis arrived with the forage imported during the Second World War. All recent occurrences originated by escape from confinement (ornamental purposes, horticulture, agriculture), reflecting a high diversity of the modern assortment of cultivated plants in commerce and private gardens. Regarding the invasion status, five alien species are considered casual and eight species are treated as locally established or persisting (for uncertain time). Only one species, Galega orientalis, is considered naturalised and capable of further spreading in the territory, although without invasive potential.
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

New species of Andropromachus (Phasmatodea: Lonchodidae: Necrosciinae: Necrosciini) from Yunnan Province, China
The genus Andropromachus (Lonchodidae: Necrosciinae: Necrosciini) is a small genus of stick insects including four species with a distribution in northern Vietnam and south-western China.A new species of stick insects Andropromachus gulinqingensis sp. n. is described from Yunnan Province of China. Diagnostic characters of the new species are illustrated and an identification key to male and female Andropromachus is provided along with a checklist for all described species.
["stick insects"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Bats from the Pedra Branca Forest, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Pedra Branca Forest is located in a highly-urbanised region of the central portion of Rio de Janeiro City, comprises the largest urban forest on the continent and is isolated from other Atlantic Forest remnants. The local flora and fauna are protected by three conservation units (Pedra Branca State Park, Prainha Municipal Natural Park and Guaratiba State Biological Reserve) and one biological station (Fiocruz Atlantic Forest Biological Station—EFMA). Here, we provide an updated list of the bat fauna for the remnant. The results are based on samplings at EFMA and literature data from Pedra Branca State Park and Prainha Natural Park. The three sampling sites combined resulted in 31 species, 23 genera and four families. Phyllostomidae was the richest family with 24 species, followed by Vespertilionidae with five species (3%) and Molossidae and Noctilionidae with one species. The local bat fauna was predominantly composed of species with a broad geographic distribution.
["bat survey"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Rabies epidemiology and control", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Complete mitochondrial genome of Manis pentadactyla pentadactyla (Mammalia: Pholidota), an endemic subspecies of Chinese pangolin: mitogenome characterisation and phylogenetic implications
The Chinese pangolin Manis pentadactyla is critically endangered because of over-exploitation and illegal trafficking and includes three subspecies. However, the taxonomic status of the three subspecies of the Chinese pangolin has not been well resolved, which impedes regional conservation and illegal trade traces. In this study, the complete mitogenome sequence of M. p. pentadactyla, an endemic subspecies of the Chinese pangolin in Taiwan, was determined. The complete mitogenome of M. p. pentadactyla is 16,570 base pairs (bp) in length with 13 protein-coding genes (PCG), 23 transfer RNAs (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNAs and a 1164 bp control region. The overall base composition of the genome showed a slight A + T bias (59.9%), positive AT skew (0.1515) and negative GC skew (-0.3406), which is similar to that of other pangolins. All PCGs started with a typical ATN codon and all tRNAs were typical cloverleaf-shaped secondary structures, except for tRNA-Ser(GCU). Phylogenetic analysis indicated a monophyletic relationship for M. p. pentadactyla and M. p. aurita and was monophyletic for M. p. pentadactyla, but paraphyletic for M. p. aurita. The paraphyly of M. p. aurita resulted from an incomplete lineage sorting. This study enriched the mitogenome database of the Chinese pangolin and the molecular information obtained should be very useful for future research on mitogenome evolution and genetic diversification in M. pentadactyla.
["critically endangered"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Ascodesmis rosicola sp. nov. and Talaromyces rosarhiza sp. nov., two endophytes from Rosa roxburghii in China
Rosa roxburghii Tratt., a deciduous shrub of the family Rosaceae, is usually used as food and medicinal materials and also cultivated as an ornamental. Plant endophytic fungi are a large class of microbial resources not fully researched, with great potential applications. Two strains of Ascodesmis and Talaromyces were isolated during a survey of biodiversity on endophytic fungi of R. roxburghii in China. Multigene phylogenetic analyses showed that each of the two fungi formed a distinct lineage and separated from known congeneric species and they are proposed as two novel taxa.Ascodesmis rosicola sp. nov. usually has one or two conspicuous simple or branched ridges extending to the majority of the ascospore surface and remarkably small asci, distinguishing it from the previously-described species in the genus Ascodesmis. Talaromyces rosarhiza sp. nov., of the section Talaromyces, is closely related to T. francoae. It differs from the latter by having both monoverticillate and biverticillate conidiophores, while those of T. francoae are biverticillate. Both novel endophytes are illustrated and described.
["multigene phylogenetics"]

Tylocinum is no longer monotypic: Tylocinum brevisporum sp. nov. (Boletales, Boletaceae) from northern Thailand
Tylocinum Y.C. Li & Zhu L. Yang 2016 is a Boletaceae genus belonging in subfamily Leccinoideae. It was described in 2016 from China and, prior to this study, it contained only one species, T. griseolum Y.C. Li & Zhu L. Yang 2016. During our survey of Boletaceae from Thailand, we collected some specimens that could be identified as a Tylocinum species, different from T. griseolum.The bolete specimens, collected in forests dominated by Dipterocarpaceae and Fagaceae in northern Thailand, are described as Tylocinum brevisporum Raghoonundon & Raspé sp. nov. Macroscopic and microscopic descriptions with illustrations are provided, as well as a 3-gene phylogeny, which confirms the new taxon’s position in Tylocinum. Tylocinum brevisporum differs from the only other known Tylocinum species (T. griseolum) by its brownish-grey colour, greyish-orange to brownish-orange colour change in the hymenophore when bruised, smaller pores (≤ 0.5 mm), longer tubes (up to 6 mm long), shorter and narrower basidiospores, longer and broader basidia and longer pleurocystidia relative to cheilocystidia. T. brevisporum is the second species from the genus Tylocinum and the only one to be found outside China thus far.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Ophiocordyceps aphrophoridarum sp. nov., a new entomopathogenic species from Guizhou, China
Ophiocordyceps is the largest genus in the family Ophiocordicipitaceae, including many entomopathogenic species. In recent years, many species have been described in this genus, with a wide range of host insects. Entomopathogenic fungi include ecologically, economically and medicinally important species, but a large portion of their diversity remains to be discovered and described.In this study, a new species, Ophiocordyceps aphrophoridarum sp. nov, parasitising Aphrophoridae sp. (Hemiptera) is proposed from China, based on evidence from morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses. This species is characterised by fibrous, pigmented stromata, cylindrical asci and filiform ascospores. Compared to its closest relative, O. tricentri, the new species has wider perithecia and longer asci. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of a multilocus dataset (consisting of SSU, ITS, LSU, TEF1, RPB1 and RPB2) confirm its placement in Ophiocordyceps. Ophiocordyceps aphrophoridarum is morphologically described and illustrated with colour photographs. Morphological comparisons with closely-related species are also presented in tabulated format.
["one new taxon"]
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A DNA barcode library for the water mites of Montenegro
Water mites (Acari, Hydrachnidia) are a significant component of freshwater ecosystems inhabiting a wide range of aquatic habitats. This study provides a first comprehensive DNA barcode library for the water mites of Montenegro. DNA barcodes were analysed from 233 specimens of water mites morphologically assigned to 86 species from 28 genera and 15 families. In the course of the study, four species, i.e. Lebertia reticulata (Koenike, 1919), Atractides inflatipalpis K.Viets, 1950, A. latipes (Szalay, 1935) and Parabrachypoda montii (Maglio, 1924) were molecularly confirmed as new for Montenegro and three species, i.e. Protzia octopora Lundblad, 1954, Piona laminata (Thor, 1901) and Unionicola ypsilophora (Bonz, 1783) are new for the Balkan Peninsula. Results are analysed using the Barcode Index Number system (BIN) and the Refined Single Linkage (RESL) of BOLD. The BIN assigned sequences to 98 clusters, while the RESL reveal 103 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Unique BINs were revealed for 72 species (83.7%), whereas twelve species (14%) were characterised by two BINs and two species (2.3%) with three BINs. Amongst the studied taxa, 14 species were found with a high intraspecific sequence divergences (˃ 2.2%), emphasising the need for additional comprehensive morphological and molecu­lar analysis of these species.
["Study of Mite Species", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Vascular plants occurrences in Dokdo Islands, Korea, based on herbarium collections and legacy botanical literature
The vascular flora of the Dokdo Islands has been reported, based on primary collections made in 2012 and 2013 and legacy botanical literature. The Dokdo Islands are the remotest islands of Korea, located in the East Sea approximately 87 km from Ulleungdo Islands. They comprise two main volcanic islands, Dongdo (east islands) and Seodo (west islands) and minor islets surrounding the two main islands. This research was conducted to document vascular plant species inhabiting Korea's most inaccessible islands. We present a georeferenced dataset of vascular plant species collected during field studies on the Dokdo Islands over the past seven decades.In the present inventory of the flora of Dokdo, there are listed 108 species belonging to 78 genera and 39 families, including 93 native species and 15 newly human-induced naturalised species for these Islands' flora. The Poaceae and Asteraceae families are the most diverse, with 22 and 15 taxa, respectively. Some of the previously-listed taxa were not found on Dokdo probably because they are rare and the limited time did not allow collectors to find rare species. The spread of introduced species, especially the invasive grass Bromus catharticus Vahl., affects several native species of Dokdo flora.
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Agriculture, Soil, Plant Science"]

An updated checklist to the biodiversity data of ladybeetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) of the Azores Archipelago (Portugal)
A recently-published review from 2021 presents a comprehensive checklist of ladybeetles of Portugal, including the Azores and Madeira Archipelagos. Until then, the available information was very scattered and based on a single revision dating back to 1986, a few international catalogues and databases, individual records and studies on communities of agroecosystems. However, no information was available on faunal composition across the Azorean islands and their habitats, using standardised inventories. Here, we present data about the biodiversity of ladybeetles and their distribution and abundance in five Islands of the Azores (Faial, Graciosa, Pico, São Jorge and São Miguel). Surveys included herbaceous and arboreal habitats from native to anthropogenic-managed habitats: ruderal road vegetation, vegetable garden, mixed forest of endemic and non-native host plants, coastal prairies, coastal mixed vegetation, cornfields and urban areas. We aimed to contribute to the ongoing effort to document the terrestrial biodiversity of Portugal, including the Archipelago of the Azores, within the research project AZORESBIOPORTAL–PORBIOTA (ACORES-01-0145-FEDER-000072).In this study, a total of 1,487 specimens of Coccinellidae belonging to 19 species are reported for several habitats. The listed species are from one single sub-familiy (Coccinellinae) and six tribes; Chilocorini (one species), Coccidulini (three species), Coccinellini (six species), Noviini (one species), Scymnini (seven species), Stethorini (one species). The number of species collected per island differed; Faial (10 species), Graciosa (four species), Pico (seven species), São Jorge (seven species) and São Miguel (12 species). For six species, new island records are given. Currently, the number of species known to occur in the Azores are 32, including two doubtful records. The majority of species are Scymnini, being Scymnus (Scymnus) interruptus (Goeze, 1777) and Scymnus (Scymnus) nubilus Mulsant, 1850, the most abundant species (relative abundance 71.1%). This database will be the baseline of a long-term monitoring project allowing assessment of the impact of ongoing global changes in the distribution and abundance of ladybeetles.
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Sporidesmiella lignicola sp. nov., a new hyphomycetous fungus from freshwater habitats in China
Freshwater fungi, growing on submerged wood, can promote the degradation of organisms and the reuse of rotten wood energy and play key roles in freshwater ecosystems. Here, a new hyphomycetous fungus, Sporidesmiella lignicola, was isolated and identified from submerged wood samples collected in a small stream in Jiangxi Province, south-eastern China.The new taxon was studied, based on morphological characters and phylogenetic analyses combined with LSU, ITS, TEF1α and RPB2 sequences data. Sporidesmiella lignicola was morphologically characterised by its pink colonies on PDA medium in prophase, macronematous, mononematous, solitary, brown, septate, unbranched, straight or slightly flexuous conidiophores with holoblastic, polyblastic, integrated, terminal, pale brown conidiogenous cells and cylindrical, narrowly clavate, broadly obovoid to cuneiform, 3–4-distoseptate, olivaceous brown or brown conidia with rounded apex. A phylogenetic tree was constructed, based on the combination of LSU, ITS, TEF1α and RPB2 sequences data.
["freshwater fungi"]

Monitoring Arthropods in Azorean Agroecosystems: the project AGRO-ECOSERVICES
The data we present are part of the AGRO-ECOSERVICES project (Assessing ecosystem services and disservices provided by arthropod species in Azorean agroecosystems). The project aims to evaluate the relative importance of native and non-native organisms as ecosystem services (ES) and disservices (ED) providers, by combining novel, direct and quantitative tools for monitoring agro-biodiversity. Ecosystem services include evaluation of natural pest control by predation, seed predation on weed plants, pollination, decomposition and ecosystem disservices, herbivory and seed predation on crop plants. Active Aerial Searching (AAS) (only in maize-fields) and pitfall traps were used to sample the arthropod biodiversity (predatory spiders, true-bugs and beetles and main insect pests) on four agricultural habitats of Terceira Island, namely citrus orchards, low and high elevation maize fields and vineyards.We provided an inventory of all arthropods recorded in four Azorean agroecosystems (citrus orchards, low and high elevation maize fields and vineyards) from Terceira Island. A total of 50412 specimens were collected, belonging to four classes, 20 orders, 81 families and 200 identified species of arthropods. A total of 127 species are considered introduced (n = 22646) and 69 native non-endemic (n = 24117). Four endemic species were recorded with very few specimens (n = 14) and 3635 specimens belong to unidentified taxa recorded only at genus or family level. Five species are new records for Terceira Island, with Lagria hirta (Linnaeus, 1758) (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) being also a new record for the Azores. This publication contributes to a better knowledge of the arthropods communities present in agro-ecosystems of Terceira Island and will serve as a baseline for future monitoring schemes targeting the long-term change in arthropod diversity and abundance.
["Active Aerial Searching (AAS)"]
["Entrepreneurship Studies and Influences", "Business and Management Studies", "Family Business Performance and Succession"]

Ecological data in Darwin Core: the case of earthworm surveys
This sampling-event dataset provides primary data about species diversity, age structure, abundance (in terms of biomass and density) and seasonal activity of earthworms (Lumbricidae). The study was carried out in old-growth broad-leaved and young forests of two protected areas ("Kaluzhskiye Zaseki" Nature Reserve and Ugra National Park) of Kaluga Oblast (Russia).The published dataset provides new data about earthworm communities in European Russia. We propose a new schema according to Darwin Core for the standardisation of the soil invertebrates survey data.
["sampling-event data"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

Tiny wasps, huge diversity – A review of German Pteromalidae with new generic and species records (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea)
Despite their ecological and economic importance, hymenopteran parasitoids are severely understudied. Even in countries with a long taxonomic history such as Germany, dating back to the 18th century and including prolific figures like Christian Gottfired Nees von Esenbeck and Otto Schmiedeknecht, those species-rich groups are seldom the subject of comprehensive research efforts, leaving their true diversity unknown. This is often due to their small size of a few millimetres on average, leading to difficulties in their identification and examination. The chalcidoid family Pteromalidae is no exception to this neglect. So far, 735 species have been reported from Germany. Estimating the diversity of this group is not possible, but it has to be assumed that many more species are still to be discovered in Germany.With this study, we improve the knowledge on pteromalid diversity and present new records of 17 genera and 41 species, previously unknown to occur in Germany. We also match and describe previously unknown sexes of two species, based on DNA barcode data. The results of this study were generated as part of the German Barcode of Life Project. The newly-recorded species are illustrated and notes on the biology and distribution are given. The ecological significance of Pteromalidae and potential value as indicators for nature conservation efforts are briefly discussed.
["parasitoid wasps"]

Two new species of the genus Latouchia Pocock, 1901 from southeast China (Araneae: Mygalomorphae: Halonoproctidae)
The genus Latouchia Pocock, 1901 (Araneae: Mygalomorphae: Halonoproctidae: Ummidiinae) includes 21 species and 1 subspecies occurring in southeast Eurasia. Just like other trapdoor spiders, the specimens of Latouchia are rare in collections, unless from targeted collecting.Two new species of mygalomorph spiders, Latouchia rufa sp. n. from Guangdong, China and L. yejiei sp. n. from Hainan, China, are described and illustrated from both sexes. Diagnostic characters of the two species are provided.
["mygalomorph spider"]

First record of Lithurgus cornutus (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Megachilidae) from Poland
The paper presents the first record of Lithurgus cornutus (Fabricius, 1787) in Poland. Until recently, bees of the genus Lithurgus have not been recorded in Poland. Five females and one male of L. cornutus were caught in Lublin Region, SE Poland. The localities are beyond the range of this species, being the northernmost known records from Central Europe. The following information is provided: short diagnosis, ecology, distribution, recent records and threat status of L. cornutus in Central Europe.
["solitary bee"]

First record of hydrozoan genera Eucheilota McCrady, 1859 and Mitrocomella Haeckel, 1879 and species Porpita porpita (Linnaeus, 1758) and Physalia physalis (Linnaeus, 1758) in Bali, Indonesia
This report documents the first record of the genera Eucheilota and Mitrocomella and species Porpita porpita and Physalia physalis in Bali, Indonesia, based on observed occurrences in different times and sites. The coincidence of the annual stranding of Physalia physalis in the east Bali and south Java coasts during the monsoon periods in Indonesia suggests a link with the upwelling events in the areas. However, more work is needed to analyse this phenomenon and study the occurrences of other Hydromedusae due to the limited data on hydrozoans in Indonesian waters. Overall, this report provides primary data to contribute to the general understanding of the biodiversity of marine organisms in Indonesia.
["Eucheilota"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Long-term dynamics of the abundance of earthworms and enchytraeids (Annelida, Clitellata: Lumbricidae, Enchytraeidae) in forests of the Central Urals, Russia
Since the late 1980s, long-term monitoring of terrestrial ecosystems in metal-contaminated areas has been carried out in the Central Urals. As a part of these monitoring programmes, the data on soil macroinvertebrates in undisturbed areas as reference sites continues to be gathered. These data help study the local biodiversity and long-term dynamics of soil macroinvertebrate abundance in non-polluted areas.The dataset (available from the GBIF network at includes information from a long-term monitoring programme for two taxa of Annelids, Lumbricidae and Enchytraeidae, which dwell in the topsoil of spruce-fir, birch, pine and floodplain forests in the Central Urals. The dataset includes information on the earthworm community structure (list of species, species abundance, number of egg cocoons, cocoon exuvia, juveniles and adults) and enchytraeid abundance. The dataset consists of 553 sampling events (= samples, corresponding to upper and lower layers of the soil monoliths) and 12739 occurrences (earthworms, mainly identified to species and earthworm cocoons and enchytraeids, identified to family) collected during 1990–1991, 2004, 2014–2016 and 2018–2020. In total, 3305 individuals of earthworms were collected, representing ten (out of twelve) species and all eight genera recorded for the fauna of the Central Urals. In addition, 7292 earthworm egg cocoons and cocoon exuvia and 6926 individuals of enchytraeids were accumulated. The presence-absence data on each of the ten earthworm species, egg cocoons, cocoon exuvia and enchytraeids are provided for each sampling event. All data were collected in undisturbed non-polluted areas and are used as a local reference for ecotoxicological monitoring. The dataset provides valuable information for estimating the composition and abundance of earthworm communities in different habitats over a long time and contributes to the study of soil fauna biodiversity in the Urals.
["terrestrial oligochaetes"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Study of Mite Species", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics"]

New distribution records, first host plant record and DNA barcoding of the Neotropical plume moth Oidaematophorus pseudotrachyphloeus Gielis (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae)
Oidaematophorus pseudotrachyphloeus Gielis, 2011 (Lepidoptera, Pterophoridae) is a little-known Neotropical plume moth previously recorded in Ecuador, Peru and Argentina. Its host plants and DNA barcodes are unknown.Oidaematophorus pseudotrachyphloeus is recorded for the first time from Chile, based on six specimens from the Azapa Valley (Arica Province) and two from Guayacán (Coquimbo Province). Those from the Azapa Valley were reared from folivorous larvae collected on Ambrosia cumanensis Kunth (Asteraceae), representing the first host plant record for this plume moth. The first DNA barcode sequences of O. pseudotrachyphloeus are provided and used to explore relationships with congenerics.

Checklist of the suborder Terebrantia (Thysanoptera): generic diversity and species composition in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, China
Thysanoptera is amongst the most predominant orders of insects in different ecological zones with worldwide distribution. Due to their small size, there is a large gap in their distribution and host range data. To the best of our knowledge, there is no investigation on the thrips distribution and their host range in Xishuangbanna. Currently, a total of 566 species in 155 genera are listed in China, of which 313 species represent Terebrantia.In this study, a list of 116 species representing 55 genera within the families Aeolothripidae and Thripidae is provided. Two of these, Dichromomothrips nakahari Moud, 1976 (subfamily Thripinae) and Phibalothrips rugosus Kudo, 1979 (subfamily Panchaetothripinae) are recorded for the first time in China. Thrips species with their host ranges, habits and habitats are provided. Our study aims to contribute to the global biodiversity distribution data-gap of Thysanoptera for conservation purposes, as well as pest species targetting Integrated Pest Management tactics.
["thrips"]

One new species of Fannia (Diptera, Fanniidae) from Yunnan, China with a key to the Fannia fuscinata-group in China
The Fannidae includes over 400 described species, mainly known from the Holarctic Region. The number of species in the Oriental Region are underestimated. The Fannia fuscinata-group was established by Wang et al. in 2011, consisting of nine species at present.A new species of the genus Fannia (Diptera, Fanniidae) is described from Yunnan, part of the Oriental Region in China, namely Fannia menglaensis sp. nov. The detailed description, photographs and drawings of adults and male terminalia of F. menglaensis sp. nov. are provided. All specimens are preserved in the Museum of Beijing Forestry University.
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Bassaniana birudis sp. nov., a new crab spider (Araneae, Thomisidae) from South Korea
The crab spider genus Bassaniana Strand, 1928 consists of six species mainly distributed in North America and Far East Asia. Two species of them, Bassaniana decorata (Karsch, 1879) and Bassaniana ora Seo, 1992, are known in Korea so far.A new crab spider, Bassaniana birudis sp. nov. is described, based on a male collected from Gumi-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea. Distribution records are provided, as well as photos of habitus and illustrations of the male copulatory organ. The type specimens of this study are deposited in the collection of the Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources (NNIBR) and Konkuk University (KKU), South Korea.
["Thomisidae"]

First record and DNA barcoding of Donacaula niloticus (Zeller, 1867) from the Iberian Peninsula (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Donacaula niloticus (Zeller, 1867) is known from south-eastern Europe, Middle East and Turkey to Central Asia, northern India and China and widely distributed in North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Libya and Egypt).Donacaula niloticus (Zeller 1867) is recorded for the first time from the Iberian Peninsula and the first DNA barcode sequence is published and compared with other European and North American Donacaula species.

Open datasets wanted for tracking the insect decline: let’s start from saproxylic beetles
We present six datasets of saproxylic beetles collected between 2012 and 2018 in Central and Southern Italian forests. Saproxylics represent one of the main components in forest ecosystems in terms of diversity, species richness and functional traits and, for this reason, they are an important target group for studying the modification of forests over time. The datasets consist of annotated checklists and were published on Zenodo repository.Overall, 1,171 records are published, corresponding to 918 taxa (taxonomy at species or subspecies level). The taxa are scarcely shared amongst the areas, 80.2% of them are exclusive, indicating that the beetle communities are substantially different. In consideration of the biodiversity crisis we are passing through, which is especially dramatic for the insects, we want to promotecollaboration amongst researchers for making datasets available in open repositories. This will improve the possibility for researchers and forest managers of analysing the state of species distribution that could serve for long-term studies on the variation of insect communities. We encourage repeating species assessment in the same localities in order to evaluate the trends in insect communities over time and space.
["biodiversity crisis"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Semiochemical baited traps of lepidopteran pests of economic importance can deliver reliable data also on wide range of non-target species: case study in the Hajdúság Region of East Pannonian Lowland (East Hungary)
Lepidopteran assemblages were studied at 16 sampling sites in the Hajdúság Region between 2013 and 2020. Although studies targeted development of synthetic phenylacetaldehyde-based and semi-synthetic isoamyl alcohol-based baits for pest monitoring, traps caught 179 species belonging to the Sphingidae, Thyatiridae, Geometridae, Erebidae and Noctuidae families. Most species were pests or widely distributed generalists, but there were also many rare habitat specialists, for example, silvicol species, whose appearance was unexpected in the recently less forested region. The specificity of the two bait types tested differed notably both on family and subfamily levels. Semi-synthetic baits performed better and attracted a wide range of noctuids belonging mainly to the Xyleninae and Noctuinae subfamilies, while synthetic phenylacetaldehyde-based lures showed specificity to Plusiinae subfamilies with lower number of sampled species. Our data fill a gap of knowledge since the fauna studied formerly was nearly unknown and brings attention to the alternative use of volatile traps of agricultural pests in faunistical studies.
["fauna"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of Jalapriya and a new record, Dictyocheirospora vinaya from freshwater habitats in China
Pleosporales is the largest order of Dothideomycetes. In recent years, systematics of Pleosporales have undergone considerable revisions. Dictyosporiaceae is one of the newly established families within this order proposed to accommodate holomorphic saprobic Dothideomycetes. Currently 18 genera are recognised in Dictyosporiaceae.The new species, Jalapriya aquaticum sp. nov. and J. apicalivaginatum sp. nov. were collected from freshwater habitats in Gansu and Yunnan Provinces, China, respectively and are introduced, based on morphology and molecular analysis of combined ITS, LSU, SSU and TEF1-α sequence data. We also recovered one fresh collection of Dictyocheirospora vinaya D’souza, Bhat & K.D. Hyde, which is a new record for China. Jalapriya aquaticum differs from extant species of Jalapriya in rows converging at the apex and apical cells with spherical-like appendages. Jalapriya apicalivaginatum differs from extant species of Jalapriya in having the rows of conidia mostly arranged in a plane. The phylogenetic analysis place the new collections within Dictyosporiaceae (Pleosporales). Descriptions and illustrations of Jalapriya aquaticum, J. apicalivaginatum and Dictyocheirospora vinaya are provided. A synopsis of characters of species of Jalapriya is also provided.
["asexual morphs"]

A new species of Cheironitis van Lansberge, 1875 from Jordan (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Onitini)
The genus Cheironitis van Lansberge, 1875, currently contains 23 species from the Old World. During a survey for dung beetles in Jordan, specimens of an undescribed species were collected at the historical site of Petra.A new species of Cheironitis (C. petraensis sp. n.) is described from the historical site of Petra, Jordan, illustrated and compared with its most closely related species. This new species is reminiscent of the African species of Cheironitis living in savannahs and could represent a relictual species of the mid-Holocene climatic optimum.
["dung beetle"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

The complete mitogenome of Curculio chinensis (Chevrolat, 1878) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Curculioninae)
The mitogenome of Curculio chinensis (Chevrolat, 1878) was sequenced and annotated to better identify C. chinensis and related species. The mitogenome is 18,680 bp in length, includes the 37 typical mitochondrial genes (13 protein-coding genes, two ribosomal RNA genes and 22 transfer RNA genes) and two control regions (total length: 3,879 bp). Mitogenome organisation, nucleotide composition and codon usage are similar to the previously sequenced Curculio mitogenomes. All 13 protein-coding genes use ATN or TTG as start codon and end with TAA/G or incomplete stop codons (single T-). Twenty-one transfer RNA genes have the typical clover-leaf structure, while the dihydrouridine (DHU) arm of trnS1 is missing. In Curculio mitogenomes, the size of the control region is highly variable. Both ML and BI analyses, based on the 13 PCGs and two rRNAs from six species of Curculioninae, strongly supported the monophyly of Curculio. In Curculio, the relationships amongst included species were inferred as ((C. chinensis + Curculio. sp.) + (Curculio davidi + Curculio elephas)), with C. chinensis and C. sp. forming a clade (BS = 100; PP = 1).
["mitochondrial genome"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis", "Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis"]

Metagenomic analysis of Raphidiopsis raciborskii microbiome: beyond the individual
Raphidiopsis raciborskii is a toxic, invasive bacteria with a defined biogeographic pattern attributed to the generation of ecotypes subjected to local environmental filters and to phenotypic plasticity. The interactions taking place between the cyanobacterium and the other bacteria inhabiting the external polysaccharide-rich matrix surrounding the cells, or phycosphere, may be ecotype-specific and would have different influence on the carbon and nutrient cycling in the ecosystem. Here, we describe the bacterial community or microbiome (assessed by 16S rRNA metagenomics) associated to two R. raciborskii strains that have been described as different ecotypes: the saxitoxin-producer MVCC19 and the non-toxic LB2897. Our results showed that both ecotypes share 50% of their microbiomes and differ in their dominant taxa. The taxon having the highest abundance in the microbiome of MVCC19 was Neorhizobium (22.5% relative abundance), while the dominant taxon in LB2897 was the Planctomycetes SM1A02 (26.2% relative abundance). These groups exhibit different metabolic capabilities regarding nitrogen acquisition (symbiotic nitrogen-fixing in Neorhizobium vs. anammox in SM1A02), suggesting the existence of ecotype-specific microbiomes that play a relevant role in cyanobacterial niche-adaptation. In addition, as saxitoxin and analogues are nitrogen-rich (7 atoms per molecule), we hypothesise that saxitoxin-producing R. raciborskii benefits from external sources of nitrogen provided by the microbiome bacteria. Based on these findings, we propose that the mechanisms involved in the assembly of the cyanobacterial microbiome community are ecotype-dependent.
["Raphidiopsis raciborskii"]
["Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

A checklist and areography of longhorn beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in Rila Mountain
The complex of longhorn beetles in Rila Mt. in Bulgaria was studied by literature data and original biological materials. As a result, 126 taxa from six subfamilies were established, as follows: Prioninae (four taxa), Lepturinae (43 taxa), Necydalinae (two taxa), Spondylidinae (seven taxa), Cerambycinae (31 taxa) and Lamiinae (39 taxa).In this study, two new records for Rila Mt. (Stenurella nigra nigra and Xylosteus spinolae) and new localities or additional information for 24 cerambycid taxa were reported. The longhorn beetles belong to 18 zoogeographical categories and seven complexes. The European complex occupies a dominant position (37.3%), followed by the Palaearctic (23.8%), Eurosiberian (13.5%), Mediterranean (11.1%), European-Iranoturanian (7.1%), Balkan endemic (4.0%) and Holarctic (3.2%) complexes.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Confirmation of Leptobrachella ventripunctata (Fei, Ye, and Li, 1990), based on molecular and morphological evidence in Thailand
Thailand is considered a global biodiversity hotspot that is known to harbour a striking diversity of endemic species. However, several research studies have determined that the level of amphibian diversity in the country has been significantly underestimated. The megophryid genus Leptobrachella Smith, 1925 is currently known to include 89 species that are primarily distributed throughout southern China and Southeast Asia; however, only seven species have been found in Thailand.Based on an integrative approach encompassing genetic and morphological analyses, we have concluded that the population identified from Chiang Rai Province of Thailand is conspecific with Leptobrachella ventripunctata (Fei, Ye, and Li, 1990). Importantly, this is the first confirmation record of this species, based on molecular and morphological evidence in Thailand. The discovery of this species reaffirms that the diversity within the genus has been underestimated with many species yet to be discovered. In addition, the findings of our study further highlight the lack of existing knowledge on amphibian taxonomy and an underestimation of the biodiversity that exists along these national border areas.
["Megophryidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Aquaculture disease management and microbiota"]

Coelotes vignai Brignoli, 1978 (Araneae: Agelenidae) from Turkey: first description of male and annotations on terminology of copulatory organs
The agelenid spider species Coelotes vignai Brignoli, 1978 was described, based on female specimens from Turkey.The unknown male is here described, based on specimens from the type locality: Bolu, Abant Mountains, Turkey. The variation of the female copulatory organs is illustrated. The relationships of the species with its putative closest congeners are discussed. The discrepancy between the morphological terminology used in the Coelotinae and Ageleninae is discussed and some suggestions how to unify them are proposed.
["charitonovi group"]

A comprehensive assessment of the intertidal biodiversity along the Portuguese coast in the early 2000s
The unprecedented rates of current biodiversity loss have motivated a renewed interest in environmental and biodiversity monitoring. The need for sustained monitoring strategies has prompted not only the establisment of new long-term monitoring programmes, but also the rescue of data from historical or otherwise archived sources. Amongst the most valuable datasets are those containing information on intertidal systems, as they are particularly well suited for studying the biological effects of climate change. The Portuguese rocky coast is quite interesting for studying the effects of climate change on the distribution of species due to its geographical orientation, latitudinal patterns in temperature, species richness, species' distribution patterns and availability of historical information. This work aims at providing a comprehensive picture of the distribution and abundance of intertidal macro-invertebrates and macro-algae along the Portuguese rocky coast in the early 2000s.This study provides a description of the rocky shore intertidal biodiversity of the mainland Portuguese coast in the early 2000s. The spatial distribution and semi-quantitative abundance of a total of 238 taxa were assessed at 49 wave-exposed locations. These data provide a comprehensive baseline against which biodiversity changes can be effectively and objectively evaluated.
["intertidal"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Moths (Insecta: Lepidoptera) of Delhi, India: An illustrated checklist based on museum specimens and surveys
There have been several recent checklists, books and publications about Indian moths; however, much of this work has focused on biodiversity hotspots such as North-east India, Western Ghats and Western Himalayas. There is a lack of published literature on urban centres in India, despite the increased need to monitor insects at sites with high levels of human disturbance. In this study, we examine the moths of Delhi, the national capital region of India, one of the fastest growing mega-metropolitan cities. We present a comprehensive checklist of 338 moths species using 8 years of light trapping data (2012-2020) and examining about 2000 specimens from historical collections at the National Pusa Collection of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (NPC-IARI) spanning over 100 years (1907-2020). The checklist comprises moths from 32 families spanning 14 superfamilies with Noctuoidea (48.5%) and Pyraloidea (20.4%) being the the two most dominant superfamilies. We provide links to images of live individuals and pinned specimens for all moths and provide detailed distribution records and an updated taxonomic treatment.This is the first comprehensive annotated checklist of the moths of Delhi. The present study adds 234 species to the biodiversity of moths from Delhi that were not reported previously, along with illustrations for 195 species.
["species checklist"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

First national record of Quasipaa verrucospinosa (Bourret, 1937) (Amphibia: Anura: Dicroglossidae) from Thailand with further comment on its taxonomic status
Spiny Frog Quasipaa is a genus of frogs that belongs to a relatively poorly known group. Most of the species distribution has been recorded in China; however, a few incidences of identification have occurred in the eastern part of Indochina. To date, only one species (Quasipaa fasciculispina) of Quasipaa has been recorded from Chanthaburi and Trat Provinces in south-eastern Thailand.Based on recent fieldwork conducted in northern Thailand, we report a new record of Quasipaa verrucospinosa from Doi Phu Kha National Park, Nan Province at an altitude of 900–1000 m a.s.l. Our study has demonstrated that populations of this species are paraphyletic and has revealed deep genetic differences. Therefore, it is recommended that a comprehensive study be undertaken to clarify the taxonomic and geographic distribution of this species for its suitable protection and conservation.
["Quasipaa verrucospinosa"]

Complete mitochondrial genomes of three reef forming Acropora corals (Acroporidae, Scleractinia) from Chagos Archipelago, Indian Ocean
We present the first mitochondrial genomes from Chagos Archipelago, Indian Ocean, of three putative species of reef forming Acropora (Acropora aff. tenuis, Acropora aff. cytherea and Acropora aff. orbicularis). The circular genome consists respectively of 18,334 bp, 18,353 bp and 18,584 bp. All mitochondrial genomes recovered comprise 13 protein-coding genes, two transfer RNA genes and two ribosomal RNA genes, with an overall GC content ranging from 37.9% to 38.0%. These new genomic data contribute to our increased understanding of genus Acropora and its species boundaries, ultimately aiding species monitoring and conservation efforts.
["mitochondrial genome"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

Lithobius (Monotarsobius) tetrasulcus sp. n., a new species of centipede from China (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae)
The myriapod fauna of China is still poorly known and very little attention has been paid to the study of Lithobiomorpha, with only 100 species and subspecies known from the country. Altogether, 11 species of subgenus Monotarsobius have been recorded from China, but only two of them have been reported from Hebei Province. Herein, a new species recently discovered in the Hebei Province, China, is described and illustrated.A new lithobiids species Lithobius (Monotarsobius) tetrasulcus sp. n. is described and illustrated from Hengshui Lake National Nature Reserve, Hebei Province, China. The new species is compared with Lithobius (Monotarsobius) crassipes Koch, 1862 from Taiwan, China. It can be easily distinguished from congeners by having a longitudinal groove on the dorsal side of the femur and tibia of the male legs 14 and 15, only having a posterior spine on the dorsal side of femur of legs 12–15, lacking robust spines lying dorsally on the external margin on the second article of the female gonopods and the third article of the female gonopods having a bidentate apical claw.
["Hebei Province"]

Megafauna of the German exploration licence area for seafloor massive sulphides along the Central and South East Indian Ridge (Indian Ocean)
The growing interest in mineral resources of the deep sea, such as seafloor massive sulphide deposits, has led to an increasing number of exploration licences issued by the International Seabed Authority. In the Indian Ocean, four licence areas exist, resulting in an increasing number of new hydrothermal vent fields and the discovery of new species. Most studies focus on active venting areas including their ecology, but the non-vent megafauna of the Central Indian Ridge and South East Indian Ridge remains poorly known.In the framework of the Indian Ocean Exploration project in the German license area for seafloor massive sulphides, baseline imagery and sampling surveys were conducted yearly during research expeditions from 2013 to 2018, using video sledges and Remotely Operated Vehicles.This is the first report of an imagery collection of megafauna from the southern Central Indian- and South East Indian Ridge, reporting the taxonomic richness and their distribution. A total of 218 taxa were recorded and identified, based on imagery, with additional morphological and molecular confirmed identifications of 20 taxa from 89 sampled specimens. The compiled fauna catalogue is a synthesis of megafauna occurrences aiming at a consistent morphological identification of taxa and showing their regional distribution. The imagery data were collected during multiple research cruises in different exploration clusters of the German licence area, located 500 km north of the Rodriguez Triple Junction along the Central Indian Ridge and 500 km southeast of it along the Southeast Indian Ridge.
["deep-sea mining"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils"]

Vanmanenia marmorata, a new species of loach (Teleostei: Gastromyzontidae) from the middle Chang-Jiang Basin in Guizhou Province, south China
The gastromyzontid genus Vanmanenia was established by Hora in 1932, based on the type species Vanmanenia stenosoma. The genus is a loach group adapted to running waters of streams from southern China, northern Vietnam and Laos. Currently, 19 valid species of the genus have been recognised. The northernmost distribution of the genus is the Yangtze River (= Chang-Jiang in Chinese) Basin and five species (V. maculata, V. intermedia, V. stenosoma, V. pseudostriata and V. gymnetrus) have been reported from the Basin.Vanmanenia marmorata, a new hillstream species of loach, is here described from the middle Chang-Jiang Basin in Guizhou Province, south China. It is distinguished from its congeners by having a combination of the following characters: three triangular-shaped rostral lobules; postdorsal saddles wider than interspaces; a more backwards-placed anus (the vent to anal distance 30.5–36.9% of the pelvic to anal distance); a larger gill opening with its upper extremity reaching the level of the middle of the orbit; anal-fin base length 5.6–6.4% of SL; caudal-peduncle length 11.6–12.9% of SL; prepelvic length 51.1–53.4% of SL. Its validity is also affirmed by its distinct cyt b gene sequence divergence with all sampled congeners and its monophyly recovered in a cyt b gene-based phylogenetic analysis.
["freshwater fish"]

Taxonomy notes and new occurrence data of four species of atyid shrimp (Crustacea: Decapoda: Atyidae) in Vietnam, all described from China
Freshwater shrimp of the family Atyidae De Haan, 1849 have been studied in Vietnam for more than a century. A total of 24 species of atyid shrimps from the genera Caridina H. Milne Edwards, 1837, Neocaridina Kubo, 1938, Atyopsis Chace, 1983 have been recorded from Vietnam. With 22 species, the majority are from the genus Caridina. In 2013, Karge and Klotz mentioned the occurrence of four yet undescribed species belonging to Paracaridina Liang, Guo & Tang, 1999 in Vietnam without taxonomic details.In general, studies of freshwater atyids in Vietnam are limited and most Vietnamese taxa await a taxonomic revision. The available data do not fully reflect their estimated species diversity in the country and distribution data are deficient. Here, we focus on four species of atyid shrimps from two genera, viz. Caridina cantonensis Yu, 1938, C. lanceifrons Yu, 1936, C. serrata Stimpson, 1860 and Neocaridina palmata (Shen, 1948), all described from China and have been reported to occur in Vietnam. The previous reports on the occurrence of these species in Vietnam are largely unreliable due to taxonomic confusion. To contribute to the knowledge of these taxa, we provide the first verified distribution records of the four species in the country with some taxonomic remarks.This study shows the first taxonomically-verified distribution data of four atyid shrimp species originally described from China, but also reported from Vietnam, albeit under various species names and, in some cases, erroneously. These data allow the first meaningful discussion of the distribution in light of the reproductive strategy of these four species and, in conjunction with the taxonomic remarks, will contribute to the knowledge of these taxa. As a result of this research and data from previous studies, we now consider all four species as widespread and non-endemic, but land-locked (with a complete freshwater life cycle). In Vietnam, all four species are confined to the northern half of the country. Beyond Vietnam, we provide the first records for Caridina lanceifrons from southern Thailand, which suggests a major sampling gap in Indochina.
["freshwater fauna"]

Mating marks on museum specimens reveal breeding patterns in species of Pterostichus Bonelli (Carabidae, Pterostichini)
We found distinct and consistently placed, species- and sex-specific abrasions of the cuticle on museum specimens of 14 species of the Pterostichus Bonelli, 1810 (Carabidae, Pterostichini) subgenus Hypherpes Chaudoir, 1838. We deduced that these marks are generated during mating and, therefore, can be used to distinguish between preserved specimens of beetles that had previously mated at the time of capture and those that had not mated. In addition to describing and detailing the occurrence of the marks and providing evidence that they are the result of mating, we demonstrate their utility for inferring life history using a museum voucher collection. By scoring these indications of mating from pinned specimens, we describe life cycle patterns in two similar, relatively closely related and sympatric species of the subgenus Hypherpes, P. vicinus Mannerheim, 1843 and P. californicus (Dejean, 1828). Both were sampled during a pitfall trap study in Contra Costa, California, USA from 2014–2019 and deposited in the Essig Museum of Entomology, UC Berkeley. Both species had very low adult activity through the drought and end of drought period prior to the spring of 2017 and are significantly more abundant in the post-drought period. Based on mating marks, both species responded to accumulated precipitation ending the drought by the emergence of an active, mostly unmated cohort of adults. The spring activity peak, following the end of the drought, was dominated by unmarked and presumably unmated beetles, but samples from subsequent springs included a nearly equal mix of beetles showing mating marks and apparently unmated beetles. The beetle activity appears to correspond more with the accumulated rainfall of the preceding rainy season than with the rains of the sample year. Beetles sampled in autumn and winter (rainy season) predominantly show mating marks. The occurrence throughout the year of beetles that are marked as having mated is consistent with iteroparous beetles with a lifespan of more than one year and also consistent with dynamic phenotypic polyvariance in which the adult activity period is synchronised by adjusting development time. The dominant pattern fits with a life cycle that is typically annual univoltine, or possibly biennial semivoltine in dry years, rainy season breeding (autumn-winter) iteroparous, with adult summer aestivation and possibly facultative larval hibernation. However, unmarked and so apparently unmated individuals and teneral adults were captured during peak activity periods regardless of the season, suggesting that either the beetles diapause as teneral adults that then complete development and become active at various points during the year and/or there are multiple periods of breeding and oviposition each year in at least some portion of the population.
["Mediterranean-type climate"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Revision of the Exechia parva group (Diptera: Mycetophilidae)
Exechia is a diverse genus of small fungus gnats, widespread in the Holarctic Region, while the fauna is largely unknown elsewhere, such as in the Afrotropical and Oriental Region. Members of Exechia can be arranged into several species groups, based on homologies in the male and female terminalia. The Exechia parva group is delimited, based on male terminalia possessing a pair of gonocoxal lobes on the apicoventral gonocoxal margin. Eight previously-described species can be placed in this group, of which six are from the Holarctic Region, while one is recorded each from the Oriental and the Afrotropical Regions.The Exechia parva group was reviewed and found to include 33 species, of which 24 were described as new to science and six were re-described. Identification keys to 32 species for males and nine species for females are provided together with illustrations and photos of male and female terminalia. Species delimitations were based on morphological examination of 94 male and female specimens, as well as DNA barcodes obtained from 124 specimens. Molecular and morphological species delimitations were mostly congruent, except in two cases where two species were delimited within a single Barcode Index Number (BIN). We found that each species is only known from a single zoogeographical region and that several species complexes are largely congruent with zoogeographical divisions, indicating that intercontinental barriers may have a strong impact on the species diversity of the group.
["fungus gnats"]

Description of a new species of the Charaea coomani group (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae) from Vietnam with a key to species
The genus Charaea Baly is distributed in the eastern Palaearctic, Himalayas, China and adjacent countries of the Oriental Region. Currently, 59 species of the genus Charaea have been recorded. The species of Charaea is characterised with a robust tubular aedeagus that terminates with a more or less distinct apical process with the Charaea coomani group having an internal sac with long sharp lateral sclerites. Up to now, 13 species of this group have been described in the Oriental Region, four of which are found in Vietnam.Charaea dinhcuongi sp. nov. is described as a new species, based on specimens collected from Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam. Colour photographs of habitus and body details and DNA barcode sequences are presented. An identification key is provided for all Vietnamese species from the Charaea coomani group.

The Belgica 121 expedition to the Western Antarctic Peninsula: a detailed biodiversity census
This dataset relates to the biodiversity census carried out during the Belgica 121 (B121) expedition to the Western Antarctic Peninsula from February to March 2019. One of the aims of the campaign was to explore the surroundings of the Gerlache Strait and to carry out a detailed biodiversity census focusing on inter- and subtidal shallow-water areas using both classic descriptive marine ecology methods, as well as state-of-the art techniques (habitat mapping, genetics, trophic ecology). The biodiversity census was carried out onboard a nimble research vessel, RV Australis. This dataset will offer access to the raw data on biodiversity occurrences, obtained using a range of methods described in this data paper.New raw biodiversity data for a poorly-sampled region (Western Antarctic Peninsula) with a special focus on shallow ecosystems.
["Southern Ocean"]
["Polar Research and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

First detection of Colletotrichum fructicola (Ascomycota) on horsehair worms (Nematomorpha)
Fungal members of Colletotrichum (Ascomycota) were found to be associated with Chordodes formosanus, one of the three currently known horsehair worm (Nematomorpha) species in Taiwan. The fungi were identified as Colletotrichum fructicola, which is mostly known as a plant pathogen, through the use of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer and partial large subunit (nrITS + nrLSU) and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) DNA sequences. To our knowledge, this report represents both the first records for Colletotrichum associated with hairworms and for fungi on Nematomorpha. These findings expand the knowledge on the ecological relationships of both clades.

Veronaea aquatica sp. nov. (Herpotrichiellaceae, Chaetothyriales, Eurotiomycetes) from submerged bamboo in China
Freshwater fungi are highly diverse and ecologically important in freshwater systems. In China, more than 1000 species of freshwater fungi are known. Here, we present a brown-spored hyphomycetes that was collected on a submerged decaying bamboo culm in a forest stream in China.Phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS and TUB2 sequences confirm the placement of our new strain in Veronaea (Herpotrichiellaceae), sister to V. japonica. Veronaea aquatica sp. nov. differs from related taxa V. compacta and V. japonica in having longer conidiophores and cylindrical to pyriform or subclavate conidia with 0–2 septa. Veronaea aquatica also has darker brown hyphae compared to V. japonica. A morphological description and detailed illustrations of V. aquatica are provided.
["one new taxon"]

Pholcus maxian sp. nov., the fifth endemic spider species of Pholcus phungiformes species-group (Araneae: Pholcidae) at the border between Jilin, China and North Korea
The distribution pattern of Pholcus phungiformes species-group indicates that, in Jilin and Heilongjiang, China and North Korea, additional species diversity remains undiscovered.Pholcus maxian sp. nov., one new species of P. phungiformes species-group, is described, based on material collected from the borderline between Jilin, China and North Korea. It represents the fifth endemic species of this species-group and the genus Pholcus from this region.

First genetically confirmed records of the little gulper shark Centrophorus uyato (Squaliformes: Centrophoridae) from Cypriot waters
The taxonomy within the genus Centrophorus has been controversial almost since its origin, raising uncertainties about the identification, the phylogenetic placement and the geographical distribution of several species. The partial nucleotide sequences of two mitochondrial DNA gene regions, the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and the 16S ribosomal RNA, genetically confirmed the presence of the little gulper shark in Cypriot waters. The species presence in the Mediterranean Sea is revised and discussed.
["Cyprus"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Contribution to the "Atlas of the Russian Flora": Twelve local floras of European Russia
The purpose of this dataset is to deliver to a wider audience in the form of GBIF-mediated data vast floristic materials collected by the author across various localities of European Russia from 2001-2019 (Arkhangelsk, Tver, Vladimir, Tula, Lipetsk, Voronezh Oblasts, Krasnodar Krai, City of Moscow and Komi Republic). Taxonomic data on vascular plants for ten locations were mobilised from the papers and technical reports published in Russian and standardised. Floristic treatments for two locations (Yasnaya Polyana and Tsaritsyno) have never been published before.The newly-prepared dataset includes 5,309 species records, i.e. one species record per each local flora. These are either native or alien (fully naturalised and casual) species. All records within one local flora have the same centroid coordinates and coordinate uncertainty in metres. Floristic inventories from the following locations were mobilised: 01. Ustya, Arkhangelsk Oblast (543 species, 1,500 km2); 02. Zaseki, Tula Oblast (593 species, 60 km2); 03. Polibino, Lipetsk Oblast (553 species, 70 km2); 04. Khrenovoye, Voronezh Oblast (665 species, 200 km2); 05. Troyeruchitsa, Tver Oblast (501 species, 10 km2); 06. Man-Pupu-Ner, Komi Republic (182 species, ca. 300 km2); 07. Middle Lyaga, Komi Republic (143 species, ca. 300 km2); 08. Utrish, Krasnodar Krai (933 species, 195 km2); 09. Yasnaya Polyana, Tula Oblast (236 species, 2.2 km2); 10. Bogolyubovsky Lug, Vladimir Oblast (289 species, 1.7 km2); 11. Tsaritsyno, City of Moscow (359 species, 5.3 km2); 12. Patakino, Vladimir Oblast (312 species, 1.1 km2). According to the GBIF taxonomic backbone, the dataset covers 1,806 species, 669 genera and 127 families of tracheophytes.
["flora"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Soil and Environmental Studies"]

DNA barcoding for species delimitation of the freshwater leech genus Glossiphonia from the Western Balkan (Hirudinea, Glossiphoniidae)
Glossiphoniid leeches are a diverse group and sometimes abundant elements of the aquatic fauna inhabiting various types of freshwater habitats. In this study, we sampled leeches of the genus Glossiphonia from the Western Balkan in order to test the suitability of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) marker sequence for species delimitation. Morphological analysis revealed the presence of four taxa, G. complanata with two subspecies, G. c. complanata and G. c. maculosa, the latter an endemic of Ohrid Lake, G. nebulosa and endemic G. balcanica. In total, 29 new barcodes of Glossiphonia were sequenced in the course of this study and compared with the available molecular dataset of the latter genus from GenBank/BOLD databases. The applied ASAP distance-based species delimitation method for the analysed dataset revealed an interspecific threshold between 4-8% K2P distance as suitable for species identification purposes of the Western Balkan Glossiphonia species. Our study revealed that morphologically identified taxa as G. nebulosa and G. concolor each consists of more than one clearly different phylogenetic clade. This study contributes to a better knowledge of the taxonomy of glossiphoniid leeches and emphasises future work on the revision of this genus using a standard molecular COI marker in species identification.
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Micronecta griseola Horvath, 1899 - a new species of the family Corixidae (Heteroptera) for the fauna of the Middle Urals
Micronecta (Micronecta) griseola Horvath, 1899 is a representative of water bugs of the family Corixidae. It is expanding its range eastwards according to our observations in Russia. In the last decade, the species has become more common in Western Siberia.The article presents the first records of M. griseola from the territory of the Middle Urals (Russia). The distribution of the species and the features of its biology are considered.
["expansion of the range"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

An annotated checklist of millipede fauna from Slovakia, with ecological and biogeographic characteristics
Two decades have passed since the last checklist of the millipedes in Slovakia. During this time, several new records have been added and taxonomic revisions have occurred. The present updated checklist summarizes data on all millipede species recorded in Slovakia, including altogether 93 species.For each species, habitat evaluation, ecological classification and distributional pattern is provided. Ecological classification is presented for the first time for the area of Slovakia and can be used in ecological studies and for the needs of nature protection. Special remarks to selected taxa are given, including Geoglomeris subterranea Verhoeff, 1908, Brachyiulus lusitanus Verhoeff, 1898, Cylindroiulus britannicus (Verhoeff, 1891), C. parisiorum (Brölemann & Verhoeff, 1896) and Polydesmus burzelandicus Verhoeff, 1925, which are recently found for the first time, as well as C. arborum Verhoeff, 1928, confirmed in Slovakia after more than 70 years.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

BIOVERA-Tree: tree diversity, community composition, forest structure and functional traits along gradients of forest-use intensity and elevation in Veracruz, Mexico
Here, we describe BIOVERA-Tree, a database on tree diversity, community composition, forest structure, and functional traits collected in 120 forest plots distributed along an extensive elevational gradient in Veracruz State, Mexico. BIOVERA-Tree includes information on forest structure from three levels of forest-use intensity, namely old-growth, degraded, and secondary forest, replicated across eight elevations from sea-level to near the tree line at 3500 m and on size and location of 4549 tree individuals with a diameter at breast height ≥ 5 cm belonging to 216 species, 154 genera, and 80 families. We also report measurements of eight functional traits, namely wood density for 143 species, maximum height for 216 species and leaf traits including: specific leaf area, lamina density, leaf thickness, chlorophyll content, and leaf area for 148 species and leaf dry matter content for 145 species.BIOVERA-Tree is a new database comprising data collected in a rigorous sampling design along forest-use intensity and elevational gradients, contributing to our understanding of how interactive effects of forest-use intensity and elevation affect tree diversity, community composition, and functional traits in tropical forests.
["Diameter at breast height", "Ecology", "Specific leaf area", "Biology", "Old-growth forest", "Community structure", "Species diversity", "Geography", "Botany"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

New records of German Scelionidae (Hymenoptera: Platygastroidea) from the collection of the State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart
Scelionid wasps are arthropod egg parasitoids, many of which are relevant to global plant biosecurity. However, the scelionid fauna of Germany has not received much attention from professional taxonomists.Four genera and ten species are identified for the first time from Germany, including species of interest to agriculture and biological control. COI barcodes are provided for the first time for Baryconus europaeus (Kieffer) and Macroteleia bicolora Kieffer. Each species is illustrated and updated world distributions are provided. Implications for agriculture are discussed.
["parasitoid wasps"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

First record of the leafhopper Platymetopius notatus Fieber (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae) from northwest Algeria with description of the species
A continuous monitoring of leafhoppers in a pear orchard of Santa maria variety located in Khemis Miliana in the northwest Algeria for a period of 7 months from February to August 2019 revealed a species, Platymetopius notatus Fieber, earlier reported from Europe (Spain, Portugal). The species is reported in two African countries (Morocco and Tunisia).The species is recorded for the first time from Algeria. The species is described and illustrated including both male and female genitalia.
["Khemis Miliana"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Pathogenic Bacteria Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

A database and checklist of geometrid moths (Lepidoptera) from Colombia
Molecular DNA sequence data allow unprecedented advances in biodiversity assessments, monitoring schemes, and taxonomic works, particularly in poorly explored areas. They allow, for instance, the sorting of material rapidly into operational taxonomic units (such as BINs - Barcode Index Numbers), sequences can be subject to diverse analyses, and with linked metadata and physical vouchers they can be examined further by experts. However, a prerequisite for their exploitation is the construction of reference libraries of DNA sequences that represent the existing biodiversity. To achieve these goals for Geometridae (Lepidoptera) moths in Colombia, expeditions were carried out to 26 localities in the northern part of the country in 2015–2019. The aim was to collect specimens and sequence their DNA barcodes, and to record a fraction of the species richness and occurrences in one of the most biodiversity-rich countries. These data are the beginnings of an identification guide to Colombian geometrid moths, whose identities are currently often provisional only, being morpho species or operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Prior to the current dataset, 99 Geometridae sequences forming 44 BINs from Colombia were publicly available on the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD), covering 20 species only.We enrich the Colombian Geometridae database significantly by including DNA barcodes, two nuclear markers, photos of vouchers, and georeferenced occurrences of 281 specimens of geometrid moths from different localities. These specimens are classified into 80 genera. Analytical tools on BOLD clustered 157 of the mentioned sequences to existing species level BINs, identified earlier by experts. Another 115 were assigned to BINs that were identified to genus or tribe level only. 11 specimens did not match any existing BIN on BOLD, and are therefore new additions to the database. It is likely that many BINs represent undescribed species. Nine short sequences (<500bp) were not assigned to BINs but identified to the lowest taxonomic category by expert taxonomists and with comparisons of type material photos. The released new genetic information will help to further progress the systematics of Geometridae. An illustrated catalogue of all new records allows validation of our identifications; it is also the first document of this kind for Colombian Geometridae. All specimens are deposited at the Museo de Zoología of Universidad de Sucre (MZUS), North Colombia. DNA BINs are reported in this study, the species occurrences are available on SIB Colombia https://sibcolombia.net/ and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) https://www.gbif.org/ through https://doi.org/10.15472/ucfmkh.
["occurrence records"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

SLAM Project - Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forest of Azores: I - the spiders from native forests of Terceira and Pico Islands (2012-2019)
Long-term monitoring of invertebrate communities is needed to understand the impact of key biodiversity erosion drivers on the biodiversity of these high diverse organisms.The data we present is part of the long-term project SLAM (Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forest of Azores) that started in 2012, that aims to understand the impact of biodiversity erosion drivers on Azorean native forests (Azores, Macaronesia, Portugal). In this contribution, the design of the project, its objectives and the first available data for the spider fauna of two islands (Pico and Terceira) is described.Passive flight interception SLAM traps (Sea, Land and Air Malaise traps) were used to sample native forest plots in several Azorean islands, with one trap being set up at each plot and samples taken every three months following the seasons.The key objectives of SLAM project are: 1) collect long-term ecological data to evaluate species distributions and abundance at multiple spatial and temporal scales, responding to the Wallacean and Prestonian shortfalls, 2) identify biodiversity erosion drivers impacting oceanic indigenous assemblages under global change for conservation management purpose, 3) use species distribution and abundance data in model-based studies of environmental change in different islands, 4) contribute to clarify the potential occurrence of an "insect decline" in Azores and identify the spatial and temporal invasion patterns of exotic arthropod species, 5) contribute with temporal data to reassess the Red-list status of Azorean endemic arthropods, 6) perform studies about the relationship between diversity (taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic) and ecosystem function.The project SLAM (Long Term Ecological Study of the Impacts of Climate Change in the natural forest of Azores) is described in detail.Seasonal distribution and abundance data of Azorean spiders based on a long-term study undertaken between 2012 and 2019 in two Azorean islands (Terceira and Pico) is presented. A total of 14979 specimens were collected, of which 6430 (43%) were adults. Despite the uncertainty of juvenile identification, juveniles are also included in the data presented in this paper, since the low diversity allows a relatively precise identification of this life-stage in Azores.A total of 57 species, belonging to 50 genera and 17 families, were recorded from the area, which constitutes baseline information of spiders from the studied sites for future long-term comparisons. Linyphiidae were the richest and most abundant family, with 19 (33%) species and 5973 (40%) specimens. The ten most abundant species are composed mostly of endemic or native non-endemic species and only one exotic species (enuiphantes tenuis). Those ten most abundant species include 84% of all sampled specimens and are clearly the dominant species in the Azorean native forests. Textrix caudata L. Koch, 1872 was firstly reported from Terceira and Pico Islands, Araneus angulatus Clerck, 1757 was firstly reported from Terceira Island, Neriene clathrata (Sundevall, 1830) and Macaroeris diligens (Blackwall, 1867) were firstly reported from Pico Island.This publication contributes not only to a better knowledge of the arachnofauna present in native forests of Terceira and Pico, but also to understand the patterns of abundance and diversity of spider species both seasonally and between years.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Gerromorpha (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) from the Metropolitan Region of Santarém, Brazil, including three new species of Microvelia Westwood, 1834 (Veliidae: Microveliinae)
Gerromorpha (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) comprises more than 2100 species of semiaquatic bugs, most of which have the ability to walk on the surface of the water. So far, 238 species have been recorded from Brazil, but several portions of the country remain poorly explored. The metropolitan region of Santarém (MRS), Pará state, Brazil, lacks faunistic and taxonomic studies concerning this group, and the local fauna is under threat due to human actions.Aiming to fill gaps concerning the diversity and distribution of Gerromorpha in the Amazon, a survey of the semiaquatic bugs from the MRS is presented. Collections were made in 33 aquatic ecosystems in the different phytophysiognomies within this area from July 2019 to October 2020. As a result, a checklist with 44 species recorded from the three municipalities of the MRS is presented. Furthermore, three new species of the genus Microvelia Westwood, 1834 (M. belterrensis sp. nov., M. hamadae sp. nov. and M. sousorum sp. nov.) are described, two species are recorded for the first time from Brazil (Microvelia aschnakiranae Makhan, 2014 and Rhagovelia graziae Galindo-Malagón, Morales & Moreira, 2021), two from Pará state (Microvelia longipes Uhler, 1894 and Paravelia dilatata Polhemus & Polhemus, 1984), and 15 from the MRS (Brachymetra lata Shaw, 1933, B. shawi Hungerford & Matsuda, 1957, Tachygerris adamsoni (Drake, 1942), Microvelia pulchella Westwood, 1834, Rhagovelia brunae Magalhães & Moreira, 2016, R. evidis Bacon, 1948, R. jubata Bacon, 1948, Callivelia conata (Hungerford, 1929), Oiovelia cunucunumana Drake & Maldonado-Capriles, 1952, Paravelia bullialata Polhemus & Polhemus, 1984, Stridulivelia alia (Drake, 1957), S. stridulata (Hungerford, 1929), S. strigosa (Hungerford, 1929), S. tersa (Drake & Harris, 1941), and S. transversa (Hungerford, 1929)).
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

New and confirmed records of fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) from Italy
Prior to this study, 141 species of Tephritidae were known to occur in Italy.Italian records of nine species of the family Tephritidae (Diptera) are provided. Five species, Eurasimona stigma (Loew, 1840), Noeeta bisetosa Merz, 1992, Campiglossa doronici (Loew, 1856), Xyphosia laticauda (Meigen, 1826), and Rhagoletis berberidis Jermy, 1961, are recorded from Italy for the first time, whereas four species, Inuromaesa maura (Frauenfeld, 1857), Urophora cuspidata (Meigen, 1826), Tephritis conyzifoliae Merz, 1992, and T. mutabilis Merz, 1992, previously recorded in the Fauna Europaea database without reference to collection material, are confirmed and supplemented with host plant data and other collection data.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Ypsolopha chicoi sp. n., the second representative of the widespread micromoth genus Ypsolopha Latreille (Lepidoptera, Ypsolophidae) from the Andes of northern Chile
The largest number of species of the widespread and highly diverse micromoth genus Ypsolopha Latreille, 1796 (Lepidoptera, Yponomeutoidea, Ypsolophidae) is known from the Northern Hemisphere. Only seven species have been described from the Neotropical Region, two of which occur in Chile.The adult stage of Ypsolopha chicoi sp. n. from the arid highlands of the western slopes of the Andes of northern Chile is described and illustrated. Its larvae feed on the native shrub Muehlenbeckia fruticulosa (Walp.) Standl. (Polygonaceae). The morphology of the genitalia of Y. chicoi sp. n. resembles that of the only congeneric known to occur in the same geographic area, Y. moltenii Vargas, 2018, whose larvae feed on Adesmia verrucosa Meyen (Fabaceae). Besides using different host plants, the two species can be accurately separated based on morphological differences in female and male genitalia.
["genital morphology"]

Reef benthos of Seychelles - A field guide
During the 2019 First Descent Seychelles Expedition, a variety of underwater technologies were deployed to survey the benthic flora and fauna of Seychelles Outer Islands’ shallow to deeper reefs. Submersibles, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and SCUBA diving teams used stereo-video camera systems to record benthic communities during transect surveys conducted at 10 m, 30 m, 60 m, 120 m, 250 m and 350 m depths. In total, ~45hrs of video footage was collected during benthic transect surveys, which was subsequently processed using annotation software in order to assess reef biodiversity and community composition. Here, we present a photographic guide for the visual identification of the marine plants, corals and other common invertebrates that inhabit Seychelles’ reefs. It is hoped that the resulting guide will aid marine biologists, conservationists, managers, divers, and naturalists with the identification of organisms as seen in underwater footage or live in the field.A total of 188 morphospecies were identified belonging to Octocorallia (47), Porifera (35), Scleractinia (32), Asteroidea (19), Echinoidea (10), Actiniaria (9), Chlorophyta (8), Antipatharia (6), Hydrozoa (6), Holothuroidea (5), Mollusca (2), Rhodophyta (2), Tracheophyta (2), Annelida (1), Crinoidea (1), Ctenophora (1), Ochrophyta (1), and Zoantharia (1). This represents the first attempt to catalogue the benthic diversity of reefs to 350 m depth in Seychelles.
["coral reefs"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products"]

Spiders of the Udmurt Republic, Russia
The long-term project "Spiders of the Udmurt Republic" (2007–2018) aimed to research spiders' regional fauna and zoogeography, diversity (including spatial and seasonal patterns), and habitat preferences. Plan of material collecting corresponds to principles of ecological-faunistic investigations. It involves fieldwork in all set natural zones and habitats types, assuming a combination of stationary research with route collecting. Presented in the dataset, occurrences come from 53 geographical points providing about 10 500 records in the dataset with more than 35 000 specimens recorded. This amount of data extends the current presence of Russian spiders on GBIF at 4 times, from 11 000 (excluding iNaturalist observations) to 46 000. The dataset can help to explore regional fauna, local and general species distribution, their monitoring, conservation, phenology, and relations with biotic and abiotic conditions.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies"]

New insight into spatial ecology of Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus) on the Balkans provides opportunity for focusing conservation actions for a threatened social scavenger
The knowledge in the behaviour and movement of endangered species is of key importance for the precise targeting and assessing the efficiency of nature conservation actions, especially considering vultures, which explore vast areas to locate ephemeral and unpredictable food resources. Therefore, a total of 51 Griffon Vultures (Gyps fulvus) from both the re-introduced population and the autochthonous Balkan Peninsula (Balkans) colonies have been tagged with GPS/GSM transmitters in recent years, in order to study their seasonal and spatial distribution. The current study presents the analysis of the high-resolution GPS location data, acquired between January 2016 and March 2021. A total of 1,138,383 locations (an average number of 23,716 ± 18,886 positions per bird, ranged between 2,515 and 76,431 of total fixes per bird; n=48) were used to estimate the home range size and identify the traditional foraging areas and roosting sites of the birds during the wintering, migration/roaming and summering periods. Our results reveal that Griffon Vultures movement activity and home range size varied considerably throughout the annual cycle, especially between their wintering and summering grounds, while exhibiting significant overlapping amongst the tracked individuals. Specifically, immature Griffon Vultures travel long distances across all Balkan Peninsula countries, but always gather with conspecifics, showing strong fidelity to active breeding/roosting sites. The total home range 95% area of the Griffon Vulture population on the Balkans was estimated at 39,986.4 km² and the 50% core area at 1,545.42 km² (n = 48). All tracked birds were found to either visit or frequently use (> 95% of the time) the same seven vulture key zones on the Balkan Peninsula – one in Serbia, one shared between North Macedonia and Bulgaria, one shared between Bulgaria and Greece, two entirely lying in Bulgaria, one in western Greece and one shared between Kvarner Archipelago islands in Croatia and the Julian Alps - Italy, Austria and Slovenia. Several smaller sub-zones were also defined within these general ones. The seven key zones form a coherent network and are used as stepping stones for Griffon Vultures during their migration movements and roaming, but also wintering and summering. The observed concentration tendency of Griffon Vultures on the Balkans and the predictability of their temporal and spatial presence should be used to precisely target, address and substantially increase the efficiency of the conservation measures in this marginal and, thus, still vulnerable meta-population.
["Griffon Vulture"]
["Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Marine animal studies overview"]

A new species of Hessebius Verhoeff, 1941 (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae) from China with a key to species
The myriapod fauna of China is still poorly known and very little attention was paid to the study of Lithobiomorpha, with only 100 species/subspecies hitherto known from the country, among which are only seven species of Hessebius. Here we are describing a new species of the genus Hessebius.A new lithobiid species, Hessebius crassifemoralis sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Hengshui Lake National Nature Reserve, Hebei Province, China. The new species is compared with H. luquensis Qiao, Qin, Ma, Su & Zhang, 2018 from Gansu Province, China. A key to Chinese species, based on adult specimens, is provided. Type specimens and other material are deposited in the School of Life Sciences, Hengshui University, Hengshui, China.
["Lithobiomorpha"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

A synopsis of the Bee occurrence data of northern Tanzania
Bees (Hymenoptera) are the most important group of pollinators with about 20,000 known species worldwide. Despite the critical role of bees in providing pollination services, studies aiming at understanding which species are present in Tanzania across disturbance gradients are scarce. Limited taxononomic information for the existing and unidentified bees make their conservation strategies haphazard. Here, we present a dataset of bees obtained in surveys in the Kilimanjaro, Arusha and Manyara regions, in northern Tanzania. Our findings serve as baseline data necessary for understanding, the diversity of bees in the northern parts of the country, which is a critical step in devising robust conservation and monitoring strategies for their populations.In this paper, we present information on a total of 45 bee species in 20 genera and 4 families, sampled using a combination of sweep-netting and pantrap methods. Most species, (27 species, 60%) belong to the family Halictidae followed by 16 species (35.5%) from the family Apidae. Megachilidae and Andrenidae were least represented, each with only one species (2.2%). From a total of 953 occurrences, highest numbers were recorded in Kilimanjaro region (n= 511), followed by Arusha (n= 410), and Manyara (n= 32), but this pattern reflects the sampling efforts of the research project rather than real bias in the distributions of bees in northern Tanzania.
["agriculture"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Life beneath the ice: jellyfish and ctenophores from the Ross Sea, Antarctica, with an image-based training set for machine learning
Southern Ocean ecosystems are currently experiencing increased environmental changes and anthropogenic pressures, urging scientists to report on their biodiversity and biogeography. One major marine taxonomically diverse and trophically important group that has, however, stayed largely understudied until now is the gelatinous zooplankton, including cnidarians, ctenophores and tunicates. This data scarcity is predominantly due to many of these fragile, soft-bodied organisms being easily fragmented and/or destroyed with traditional net sampling methods. Progress in alternative survey methods including, for instance, optics-based methods is slowly starting to overcome these obstacles. As video annotation by human observers is both time-consuming and financially costly, machine learning techniques should be developed for the analysis of in-situ image-based datasets. This requires taxonomically accurate training sets for correct species identification and the present paper is the first to provide such data.In this study, we twice conducted three week-long in situ optics-based surveys of gelatinous zooplankton found under the ice in the McMurdo Sound, Antarctica. Our study constitutes the first optics-based survey of gelatinous zooplankton in the Ross Sea and the first study to use in situ observations to describe taxonomic, trophic, and behavioral characteristics of gelatinous zooplankton from the Southern Ocean. Despite the small geographic and temporal scales of our study, we provided new undescribed morphological traits for all observed gelatinous zooplankton species (eight cnidarian and four ctenophore species). Three ctenophores and one leptomedusa likely represent undescribed species. Furthermore, along with the photography and videography, we prepared a Common Objects in Context (COCO) dataset, so that this study is the first to provide a taxonomist-ratified image training set for future machine learning algorithm development concerning Southern Ocean gelatinous zooplankton species.
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine and environmental studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

First record of the subfamily Oxytorinae (Insecta, Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from the Oriental Region, with descriptions of two new species from Vietnam
The Oxytorinae is a small subfamily of the family Ichneumonidae (Insecta, Hymenoptera) with the single genus Oxytorus Förster and 23 described species. Species were previously known to occur in the Palaearctic, Nearctic and Neotropical regions.The ichneumonid subfamily Oxytorinae is recorded for the first time from the Oriental region. Two species, one from northern and one from central Vietnam, are described as new: Oxytorus carinatus Riedel, sp. n. and O. rufopropodealis Riedel, sp. n.
["South-east Asia"]

Anoplophora huangjianbini sp. n. from Fujian and Guangxi, China (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae)
The genus Anoplophora Hope, 1839 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Lamiini) includes 38 species (ignoring subspecies) from China before this study. Members of this genus are familiar to Chinese people with a widely-used common name: “星天牛[starry longhorn beetle]”.A new species of starry longhorn beetle, Anoplophora huangjianbini sp. n. (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Lamiini) is described from Fujian and Guangxi, China. Diagnostic characters of the new species are illustrated, and comparsion with related congeners is provided.
["longhorn beetle"]

New records for chewing lice of the genus Dennyus Neumann, 1906 (Phthiraptera: Amblycera) on two swifts from Saudi Arabia
Very little information was known for the chewing lice fauna of Saudi Arabia especially from hosts of Apodiformes. Swifts (Apodiformes) are common resident and migratory passerine birds through Saudi Arabia. Through the world there are two chewing lice genera that are known to infest swifts: Dennyus Neumann, 1906 and Eureum Nitzsch, 1818. None of them were recorded from the kingdom before.Two species of resident wild swifts were examined for chewing lice for the first time in Saudi Arabia. Two rare lice species were identified: Dennyus (Dennyus) cypsiurus Thompson, 1948 and D. (Dennyus) hirundinis (Linnaeus, 1761) (Phthiraptera: Amblycera: Menoponidae) infesting African palm swift Cypsiurus parvus (Lichtenstein, 1823) and common swift Apus apus (Linnaeus, 1758), respectively. The described species are considered as new country records. They will be added to the Saudi Arabia parasitic fauna. Taxonomical and ecological remarks were provided for the identified chewing lice through this work, along with notes on swift/chewing lice interaction.
["ectoparasites"]
["Bird parasitology and diseases", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Re-description of the assassin bug species Pygolampis striata Miller, 1940 with new distributional records from Japan and Indonesia (Heteroptera, Reduviidae, Stenopodainae)
Pygolampis striata Miller, 1940 is described based on a single male specimen. However, there are no records of the species since then. Therefore, the females and nymphs have not been described, and knowledge about their habitat is insufficient.This is the first record of the Assassin bug Pygolampis striata Miller, 1940 from Japan and Indonesia. Here, this species has been re-described, and for the first time, the female has been described. The species was collected from the surfaces of dried Poaceae grasslands using the "Gasa-Gasa collecting method".

Monilochaetes pteridophytophila (Australiascaceae, Glomerellales), a new fungus from tree fern
During taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of fungi on pteridophytes in Thailand, Monilochaetes pteridophytophila sp. nov. was collected from the scale of a tree fern (Alsophila costularis, Cyatheaceae). The new species is introduced based on evidence from morphological comparison and analysis of a concatenated LSU, ITS, SSU and RPB2 sequence data.Monilochaetes pteridophytophila differs from extant species of Monilochaetes in having darker and fewer, 1–4-septate conidiophores. Monilochaetes pteridophytophila forms a distinct clade basal from other species of Monilochaetes in Australiascaceae. A detailed description and illustrations of the new species are provided. We also provided a synopsis of accepted species of Monilochaetes.
["one new taxon"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and animal studies"]

Revison of Metaplagia Coquillett (Diptera: Tachinidae) with description of five new species from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica
We revise the genus Metaplagia Coquillett, 1895 and describe five new species from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica. All new species were reared from an ongoing inventory of wild-caught caterpillars spanning a variety of species within the family Sphingidae (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae). Our study provides a concise description of each new species using morphology, life history, molecular data, and photographic documentation. In addition to the new species, the authors provide a redescription of the genus and a revised key to species of Metaplagia.The following five new species of Metaplagia are described: Metaplagia leahdennisae Fleming & Wood sp. n., Metaplagia lindarobinsonae Fleming & Wood sp. n., Metaplagia paulinesaribasae Fleming & Wood sp. n., Metaplagia robinsherwoodae Fleming & Wood sp. n., Metaplagia svetlanakozikae Fleming & Wood sp. n.The following is proposed by Fleming & Wood as new combination of Plagiomimma Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1891: Plagiomimma latifrons (Reinhard, 1956) comb. n.
["tropical rain forest"]

Contribution to the knowledge of Limoniidae (Diptera: Tipuloidea): first records of 244 species from various European countries
Limoniidae is one of the most species rich Dipteran families, with 661 reported species in Europe. Despite the fact that the European limoniid crane fly fauna has been studied ever since Carolus Linnaeus, it is still poorly known.In this study we summarize the taxonomic and faunistic studies of European Limoniidae, which described new species and reported first country records, between 2010 and 2020. We also report occurrence data of 237 Limoniidae species which represent the first country records or conformational records from various European countries, as we report eight species from Albania, one from Austria, thirty-seven from Belarus, five from Belgium, two from Bulgaria, two from Estonia, six from Finland, seven from France, fourteen from Greece, seventeen from Hungary, two from Iceland, six from Italy, eleven from Latvia, one from Malta, nine from Montenegro, two from the Netherlands, ten from North Macedonia, forty-two from Norway, one from Poland, five from Portugal, twenty from Romania, thirty-eight from Serbia, one from Slovenia, five from Spain, and seven species from Sweden for the first time. From the European territory of Russia we report twenty-eight species from Central European Russia, seventy-three from East European Russia, fifteen from North European Russia, one from Northwest European Russia and seven from North Caucasus for the first time. Confirmatory records and corrigenda are also included.

Marine invertebrates associated with rhodoliths/maërl beds from northeast Brazil (State of Paraíba)
Marine invertebrates are a group of animals characterized by the absence of a backbone, living in the oceanic zone around the world, being remarkably common associated with rhodolith/maërl beds (non-geniculated red corallinaceous algae). A total of 59 species were identified, belonging to six phyla (Platyhelminthes, Annelida, Sipuncula, Mollusca, Arthropoda, and Echinodermata), of which 52 are considered here as new records. The annelids (Class Polychaeta) were the most representative taxa in Miramar and Seixas beaches, while molluscs were mostly found in Maceió Beach.This is the first study that include an identification guide, diagnostic features and distribution patterns worldwide and local (including new records) of the marine invertebrate fauna associated with rhodolith beds in Northeast Brazil (State of Paraíba). Sampling were performed in 2018, at low tide in the intertidal to shallow subtidal zones (1.5 and 4.0m depth), in the Miramar, Seixas and Maceió beaches. Of all the identified species, 18 are new records for the Seixas, and all identified species for Miramar and Maceió beaches are new occurrences. This work proposes to contribute to the knowledge of marine invertebrates in Northeast Brazil, providing support for future environmental studies.
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Diversity and distribution of vascular plants within the treeline ecotone in Mount Iremel (Southern Urals, Russia)
During the last 100 years, rapid advances of woody vegetation towards higher elevations and latitudes have been recorded for various regions worldwide, including the Ural Mountains. Climate warming and tree cover increases can lead to significant changes in the high-mountain vegetation. Direct observations on the vegetation of high-mountain regions provide evidence for an increase in the species diversity of plants at high elevations and changes in the composition of the alpine communities. This study investigated the diversity and distribution of vascular plants within the present-day treeline ecotone in Mount Iremel, the Southern Urals.The dataset (Trubina and Nesterkov 2021, available from the GBIF network at presents the results of an assessment of species richness and frequency of vascular plants at the different elevation levels (from 1203 to 1348 m a.s.l.) and for the different biotopes (birch-spruce shrub forest, birch-spruce sparse forest, and spruce forest with fragments of meadow plant communities) within the treeline ecotone in the Mount Iremel, the Southern Urals. Observations were carried out at 700 sampling plots with two estimation methods: small-size plot (0.5 × 0.5 m) sampling (672 plots in total) and large-size plot (10 × 10 m) sampling (28 plots). The dataset includes 700 sampling events (=sampling plots), corresponded to 5585 occurrences (vascular plants, mainly identified to species) observed during July 2003. Only occurrences contained plant taxa (occurrenceStatus=present) have been provided. The dataset includes information about distribution and frequency of the Ural endemic species (Anemonastrum biarmiense (Juz.) Holub, Calamagrostis uralensis Litv., Cerastium krylovii Schischk. Et Gorczak., Festuca igoschiniae Tzvel., Hieracium iremelense (Elfstr.) Üksip Lagotis uralensis Schischk, Pleurospermum uralense Hoffm.) and the Pleistocene relict species (Alopecurus glaucus Less., Bistorta vivipara (L.) Delarbre, Cerastium pauciflorum Stev. ex. Ser., Pedicularis oederi Vahl, Saussurea controversa DC., Swertia obtusa Ledeb.). The dataset also provides information that can be useful for estimating biodiversity and plant communities composition within the treeline ecotone at a specified time period and contributes to the study of biodiversity conservation in the Ural region.
["species richness"]
["Tree-ring climate responses", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records"]

First records of the fanged frogs Limnonectes bannaensis Ye, Fei & Jiang, 2007 and L. utara Matsui, Belabut & Ahmad, 2014 (Amphibia: Anura: Dicroglossidae) in Thailand
Taxonomic status of the Limnonectes kuhlii species complex populations from Thailand controversial due to its high morphological similarity and contain many cryptic species consequence still underestimated. Recently, some studies on this group in Thailand have discovered four new species described: L. megastomias, L. jarujini, L. isanensis. Even so, the diversity of this group is still incomplete.Based integrative approach genetic and morphological analyses, we conclude that the Limnonectes populations from Nan Province (northern) and Yala Province (southern) of Thailand are conspecific with L. bannaensis Ye, Fei & Jiang, 2007 and L. utara Matsui, Belabut & Ahmad, 2014, respectively. This is representing the first country records of these species for Thailand. Our study further highlights the importance of using DNA sequence data in combination with traditional morphological characteristics to document species identity and diversity. This is especially important for morphologically cryptic species complexes and sympatrically occurring congeners.
["Nan Province"]

The first record of Caenis rivulorum (Ephemeroptera: Caenidae) from Japan
Caenis rivulorum Eaton, 1884 is widely distributed and has been reported from a wide range in the Palearctic region.We report this species from Japan for the first time, from five locations of Hokkaido based on morphology and molecular data.
["Ephemeroptera"]

Aggregated occurrence records of the invasive alien striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius Pall.) in the former USSR
Open access to occurrence records of the most dangerous invasive species in a standardized format have important potential applications for ecological research and management, including the assessment of invasion risks, formulation of preventive and management plans in the context of global climate and land use changes in the short and long term. Striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius Pallas, 1771) is a common species in the temperate latitudes of the Palaearctic. Due to land-use and global climate changes, several waves of expansion of the range of this species have been observed or inferred. By expanding into new regions, the striped field mouse became an alien species in them. Apodemus agrarius causes significant harm to agriculture and is one of the most important pests of grain crops. In tree nurseries, A. agrarius destroys seeds of valuable tree species, gnaws at the bark of saplings of broadleaf species and berry bushes. It is one of the most epidemiologically important rodents, involved in the circulation of the causative agents of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and many other zoonotic infections. The foregoing allows us to classify the striped field mouse as a dangerous invasive alien species. A lot of data accumulated for this species are of interest from both ecological and applied points of view. The accumulation and aggregation of data on the occurrence records of A. agrarius is relevant for the study of ecology, biogeography, and construction of the spatial distribution and ecological niches models in the context of global climate change. We have created a dataset of 1603 occurrence records of this species, collected from 1936 to December 2020 by various zoologists, previously published or original. These records relate to a significant part of the striped field mouse’s range in Russia (1264 records) and neighboring countries (339 records). The dataset shows the position of the northern and central parts of A. agrarius range, the disjunction of the range in Transbaikalia, and isolated populations in the north of the range. The data were obtained in different formats from the literature, indicating different degrees of accuracy of geographic coordinates and with several variations of the species name. In the process of aggregating and fixing errors, we created a set of georeferenced occurrence records, adopted a controlled vocabulary, removed duplicates, and standardized the format of records using unified data structure. We examined the dataset for inconsistencies with the taxonomic position of A. agrarius, and removed the incorrect records. This paper presents the resulting dataset of A. agrarius occurrence records on the territory of Russia and neighboring countries in a standardized format.This is a validated and comprehensive dataset of occurrence records of A. agrarius, including both our own observations and records from the literature. This dataset is available for extension by other researchers using a standard format in accordance with Darwin Core standards. In different countries, there are a lot of occurrence records for the striped field mouse, but the overwhelming part of them is presented in separate literary sources, stored in the form of maps and in zoological collections. Prior to this project, such information was not available to a wide range of researchers and did not allow the use of these spatial data for further processing by modern methods of analysis based on geographic information systems (GIS technologies). The created dataset combines species occurrence records of many Soviet zoologists who studied the distribution of the striped field mouse over a significant part of its modern range, in Russia and neighboring countries (within the former USSR). The final set of records was created by combining the species occurrence records using a uniform data structure, checking geographic coordinates, and removing duplicate and erroneous records. The dataset expands the available information on the spatial and temporal distribution of the dangerous invasive species in Russia and neighboring countries within the borders of the former USSR (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan).
["invasive species"]
["Viral Infections and Vectors", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Historical collections of vascular plants in the Korean Peninsula by three major collectors in the early 20th century: U. J. Faurie, E. J. Taquet and E. H. Wilson
The digitization of historical collections aims to increase global access to scientific artifacts, especially those from currently inaccessible areas. Historical collections from North Korea deposited at foreign herbaria play a fundamental role in biodiversity transformation patterns. However, the biodiversity pattern distribution in this region remains poorly understood given the severe gaps in available geographic species distribution records. Access to a dominant proportion of primary biodiversity data remains difficult for the broader scientific and environmental community. The digitization of foreign collectors’ botanical collections of around 60,000 specimens from the Korean Peninsula before World War II is ongoing. In this paper, we aim to fill this gap by developing the first comprehensive, open-access database of biodiversity records for the Korean Peninsula. This paper provides a quantitative and general description of the specimens that Urbain Jean Faurie, Emile Joseph Taquet, and Ernest Henry Wilson kept in several herbaria.An open-access database of biodiversity records provides a simple guide to georeferencing historical collections. The first dataset described E. H. Wilson’s collection of woody plants in the Korean Peninsula preserved at the Harvard University Herbaria (A). This includes 1,087 records collected from 1917 to 1918. The other collections contained specimens by E. J. Taquet (4,727 specimens from Quelpaert, 1907–1914) and U. J. Faurie (3,659 specimens from North Korea and Quelpaert, 1901, 1906, and 1907). For each specimen, we recorded the species name, locality indication, collection date, collector, ecology, and revision label. This dataset contained more than 9,400 specimens, with 22% of vascular plants from North Korea and 66% from Quelpaert (Jeju) island. In these collections, we included some images that correspond to the specimens in this dataset.
["endonym"]
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Species diversity and distribution of freshwater molluscs of Javakheti Highlands (Republic of Georgia)
The diversity and distribution of freshwater molluscs is poorly studied in the Republic of Georgia, due to the scarcity of field studies during the last 50 years. Here, we present the results of the first concerted investigation of freshwater mollusc biodiversity in the Javakheti Highlands, in the southern, mountainous region of Georgia. In total, we were able to collect 22 species from 42 sampling localities, including different kinds of freshwater habitats. Amongst the 22 collected species, 12 were recorded for the first time from Javakheti. From the newly-recorded species, Bathyomphalus contortus is a new country record, whose identity is supported by 16S rRNA sequence data.
["freshwater mollusca"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Description of a new species of Thelcticopis Karsch (Araneae, Sparassidae) from Guangxi Province, China
Thelcticopis is a type of spider that is very difficult to collect. In 2018, we collected two huntsman spiders in Guangxi. After diagnosis, they were found to belong to the genus of Thelcticopis. Four species of Thelcticopis Karsch, 1884 of the primitively segmented spider family Sparassidae are currently known from China. In this paper, we diagnosed and described a new species, Thelcticopis pinmini sp. nov., which was collected from Guangxi Province, China.

First national record of Gracixalus quangi Rowley, Dau, Nguyen, Cao & Nguyen, 2011 and G. yunnanensis Yu, Li, Wang, Rao, Wu &Yang, 2019 (Amphibia: Anura: Rhacophoridae) from Thailand
The bushfrog genus Gracixalus Delorme, Dubois, Grosjean & Ohler, 2005 is found in southern and southwestern China, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. It is presently comprised of 17 species. In Thailand, only two species have been recorded, namely G. carinensis (Boulenger) and G. seesom (Massui, Khonsue, Panha & Eto). The latter of these two species is currently known to be endemic to the country.Based on recent field work conducted in 2019 in Doi Phu Kha National Park, Nan Province of northern Thailand, we are reporting on two new records of the genus Gracixalus, specifically G. quangi and G. yunnanensis, for the country of Thailand based on morphological and molecular evidence. In addition, this is the first study to report on the identification of a female specimen of G. yunnanensis. Furthermore, morphological data and natural history notes of the aforementioned species in Thailand have been provided, along with updated locations for the distribution of both species.
["Gracixalus quangi"]

An update to the taxonomy and distribution of the Arabian Tapinoma Foerster, 1850 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) with an illustrated key and remarks on habitats
Tapinoma Foerster belongs to the ant subfamily Dolichoderinae and the vast majority of its species are arboreal or generalized foragers. The genus is composed of 71 described species and 24 known subspecies worldwide, while from Arabian Peninsula, three species have been recorded so far.Ants of the genus Tapinoma of the Arabian Peninsula are reviewed, keyed and illustrated based on the worker caste. Three species are diagnosed, T. melanocephalum (Fabricius, 1793), T. simrothi Krausse, 1911, and T. wilsoni Sharaf & Aldawood, 2012. We present the first illustrated key to the Arabian Tapinoma enhanced by automontage images to facilitate species recognition. New distributional data for species are presented based on recently collected material from the region and literature records. Information on habitats preference and biology of species are given.

Comparison of different methods to assess the distribution of alien plants along the road network and use of Google Street View panoramas interpretation in Sicily (Italy) as a case study
The survey by foot in the field is compared to the survey from a car, the photo-interpretation of Google Street View (GSV) panoramas continuously and at intervals of 1.5 km and the photo-interpretation of Google Earth aerial images on a 10 km stretch of road in Sicily. The survey by foot was used as reference for the other methods. The interpretation of continuous GSV panoramas gave similar results as the assessment by car in terms of the number of species identified and their location, but with lower cost. The interpretation online of aerial photos allowed the identification of a limited number of taxa, but gave a good localisation for them. Interpretation of GSV panoramas, each of 1.5 km, allowed the recognition of twice as many taxa as the interpretation of aerial photos and taking half the time, but did not allow a complete localisation.None of these methods alone seems sufficient to carry out a complete survey. A mixture of different techniques, which may vary according to the available resources and the goal to be achieved, seems to be the best compromise.To further test the capabilities of the survey using the interpretation of GSV panoramas every 1.5 km along the roads, we proceeded to study the alien plants along 3500 km of the road network on the island of Sicily. This survey identified only 10% of the known species for the region, but allowed us to trace the distribution of invasive species whose distribution is currently poorly recorded.
["road ecology"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Building a transnational biodiversity geo-database of the protected areas in the Adriatic-Ionian Macro-Region: approaches and results from the IMPRECO Project
The main objective of the project Common strategies and best practices to IMprove the transnational PRotection of ECOsystem integrity and services - IMPRECO is to enhance the safeguarding of ecosystem services and tackle their environmental vulnerability strengthening the potential of the protected areas in biodiversity, ecosystems, and ecosystem services conservation and maintaining through their transnational networking located in the Adriatic-Ionian Macroregion.The aim of this research is to characterize the habitats and ecosystems involved in the coastal-marine protected areas considered, to set a biodiversity baseline, to understand what current ecosystems’ conditions are, to build up a transnational biomonitoring program of target species and habitats, and to assess their response to pilot actions. For doing that, a transnational inventory of species, habitats, ecosystems, and ecosystem services has been realized starting from the seven coastal-marine protected areas involved in the project. Data collection has been carried out by using different sources of information: scientific literature, officially available data from NATURA 2000 Standard Data Forms, checklists from local biomonitoring programs, personal observations and citizen science, historical maps, and data from new in-field analyses. Data were filled in the geo-databases according to the NATURA 2000 standards about habitat features, species protection level and species features. The presence of alien species (non-indigenous species, NIS) was also recognized, and references about data collection were provided in the databases.
["Coastal-Marine Protected Areas"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "International Maritime Law Issues"]

Impacts of the invasive species Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder, 1845 on the algae flora of the west coast of Algeria
The assessment of the impacts of the expansion of the invasive species on taxonomic diversity, the abundance and dominance of groups of algae, the presence and/or absence of species of ecological interest that may or may not be indicative of water quality well mentioned, through the installation of a 20 × 20 cm quadrat representing the minimum area. The observation stations were visited monthly, during a repetitive three-year cycle, during the spring, summer and autumn seasons, periods of maximum growth and development of the algal flora and the results suggest the following facts. The invasive alga Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder, 1845 tends to colonise disturbed ecosystems reflecting a reduction in native algal diversity; in fact, we note a drastic impoverishment of the invaded algal community, represented by a limited number of Macrophyte algae accompanying the invasive taxon in phytosociological surveys and a Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index (H’) and Equitability reduced by 4.49 and 0.77 n the heavily affected station. The number of macroalgal species accompanying the invasive species has dropped by 52% in Salamandre. In addition, the multidimensional analysis, represented by the Hierarchical Ascendant Clustering applied to this case, confirms our results.
["algae"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

A checklist of spiders from Yongxing Island, South China Sea, with taxonomic notes on four species of goblin spiders
Yongxing Island (about 1.85 km2) is the largest island of the Xisha Islands. It is located in the Western South China Sea, and belongs to the tropical ocean monsoon climate zone. Yongxing island is quite rich in biological resources, for example, plants and birds have been well documented. However, there are limited reports on spider resources in Yongxing Island.A preliminary checklist of spiders of the Yongxing Island is provided here based on a short term study undertaken in January 2008. A total of 23 species belonging to 21 genera and 11 families were recorded from the area, which forms baseline information of spiders of the Yongxing Island. Among these, Onopidae, Pholcidae, Araneidae and Salticidae were found to be dominant in the area. Brignolia parumpunctata (Simon, 1893), Opopaea apicalis (Simon, 1893), Opopaea deserticola Simon, 1891 and Xyphinus baehrae Kranz-Baltensperger, 2014 were first reported from China during the study, for which we provide taxonomic description in this paper.

DNA barcodes of birds from northern Colombia
DNA barcode datasets are a useful tool for conservation and aid in taxonomic identification, particularly in megadiverse tropical countries seeking to document and describe its biota, which is dropping at an alarming rate during recent decades. Here we report the barcodes for several low elevation bird species from northern Colombia with the goal to provide tools for species identification in this region of South America. We blood-sampled birds in a lowland tropical forest with various degrees of intervention using standard 3 × 12 m mist-nets. We extracted DNA and sequenced the COI barcode gene using standard primers and laboratory methods. We obtained 26 COI sequences from 18 species, 10 families and three orders and found that barcodes largely matched (but not always) phenotypic identification (> 90%) and they also facilitated the identification of several challenging passerine species. Despite our reduced sampling, our study represents the first attempt to document COI barcodes for birds (from blood samples) in this part of Colombia, which fills a considerable gap of sampling in this part of South America.
["aves"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Ant genus Strongylognathus (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in Bulgaria: a preliminary review
Strongylognathus Mayr, 1853 is a Palaearctic genus, comprising 25 ant species, all permanent social parasites, infesting colonies of various species of Tetramorium Mayr, 1855. They have patchy distribution throughout their areas, and most of them are very rare and listed as vulnerable.The taxonomy of the Strongylognathus huberi group needs thorough revision and the results presented below can be considered as preliminary, but possibly useful for future studies.Four species of the socially parasitic ant genus Strongylognathus (S. karawajewi Pisarski, 1966, S. huberi dalmaticus Baroni Urbani, 1969, Strongylognathus cf. afer Emery, 1884 and Strongylognathus cf. italicus Finzi, 1924) are recorded for the first time from Bulgaria, and together with the previously known S. testaceus and S. bulgaricus their total number reaches six. The taxonomic position and geographic distribution of all species are discussed, and a Key for their identification based on worker caste is compiled.

Morphology and sexual dimorphism of living mature adults of Amphiduros fuscescens (Marenzeller, 1875) (Annelida, Hesionidae, Amphidurine), first reported for the Iberian Peninsula
To date, the genus Amphiduros (Annelida: Hesionidae: Amphidurine) is considered as monotypic. Its single species, Amphiduros fuscescens (Marenzeller, 1875), is well characterised by lacking proboscideal papillae and emerging acicular chaetae, as well as by having three antennae, eight pairs of tentacular cirri and inflated dorsal cirri with characteristic alternating length and color (transparent, with median orange band and white tips) in live animals.Three specimens, one male and two female, were found below boulders at 5–7 m depth in Punta Santa Anna, Blanes, and Cala Maset, Sant Feliu de Guixols (Catalan Sea, NW Mediterranean, Iberian Peninsula). Our finding allowed us to describe different, unreported morphological traits, and lead us to support the existence of sexual dimorphism (in terms of colouring, cirri morphology and distribution of sexual products along the body). Despite the A. fuscescens has been previously reported from the Atlantic and the Mediterranean (particularly in SE French coasts), the specimens from Blanes represent the first record of the species from the Iberian Peninsula. In addition, our molecular results strongly support that Amphiduros pacificus Hartman, 1961 from California (currently synonymised with A. fuscescens) requires to be redescribed and reinstalled as a valid species. In turn, our morphological observations support suggesting all other non-Mediterranean reports of A. fuscescens, including the species still under synonymy (i.e., Amphidrornus izukai Hessle, 1925, Amphidromus setosus Hessle, 1925) as likely being a cryptic complex whose the taxonomic status require further assessment.
["Polychaete"]

Cataloguing the bacterial diversity in the active ectomycorrhizal zone of Astraeus from a dry deciduous forest of Shorea
The plant microbiome has been considered one of the most researched areas of microbial biodiversity, yet very little information is available on the microbial communities prevailing in the mushroom's ectomycorrhizosphere. Ectomycorrhizal symbioses often result in the formation of a favourable niche which enables the thriving of various microbial symbionts where these symbionts endorse functions, such as quorum sensing, biofilm formation, volatile microbial compound (VOC) production, regulation of microbial gene expression, symbiosis and virulence. The identification of hidden uncultured microbial communities around the active ectomycorrhizal zone of Astraeus from dry deciduous sal forest of Jharkhand, India was carried out using MinION Oxford Nanopore sequencing of 16S rRNA amplicons genes. High richness of Operational Taxonomic Units (1,905 OTUs) was observed. We recorded 25 distinct phyla. Proteobacteria (36%) was the most abundant phylum, followed by Firmicutes (28%), Actinobacteria (10%) and Bacteroidetes (6%), whereas Gammaproteobacteria was the most abundant class of bacterial communities in the active ectomycorrhizal zone. The ectomycorrhizosphere soil has abundant phosphate-solubilising bacteria (PSB). This is the first report of the ectomycorrhizosphere microbiome associated with Astraeus.
["Astraeus"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Fungal Biology and Applications", "Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity"]

Updates to the checklist of the wild bee fauna of Luxembourg as inferred from revised natural history collection data and fieldwork
Museums and other institutions curating natural history collections (NHCs) are fundamental entities to many scientific disciplines, as they house data and reference material for varied research projects. As such, biological specimens preserved in NHCs represent accessible physical records of the living world's history. They provide useful information regarding the presence and distribution of different taxonomic groups through space and time. Despite the importance of museum biological specimens, their potential to answer scientific questions pertinent to the necessities of our current historical context is often under-explored.The currently known wild bee fauna of Luxembourg comprises 341 registered species distributed among 38 different genera. However, specimens stored in the archives of local NHCs represent an untapped resource to update taxonomic lists, including potentially overlooked findings relevant to the development of national conservation strategies.We re-investigated the wild bee collection of the Zoology Department of the National Museum of Natural History Luxembourg by using morphotaxonomy and DNA barcoding. The collection revision led to the discovery of four species so far not described for the country: Andrena lagopus (Latreille, 1809), Nomada furva (Panzer, 1798), Hoplitis papaveris (Latreille, 1799), and Sphecodes majalis (Pérez, 1903). Additionally, the presence of Nomada sexfasciata (Panzer, 1799), which inexplicably had been omitted by the most current species list, can be re-confirmed. Altogether, our findings increase the number of recorded wild bee species in Luxembourg to 346. Moreover, the results highlight the crucial role of NHCs as repositories of our knowledge of the natural world.
["biological collections"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

One new species of the genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 and re-description of I. yueluensis Yin & Wang, 1984 from China (Araneae, Oonopidae)
The genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 is one of the most speciose genera of Oonopidae, with 114 extant species mainly distributed in the Old world. Currently, 16 species have been recorded in China.Two species of the genus Ischnothyreus Simon, 1893 from China are recognized, including one new species, I. yunlong Tong & Li, sp. n. (male, female) from Yunnan. Ischnothyreus yueluensis Yin & Wang, 1984 is re-studied. Descriptions, diagnoses, and photos of the two species are provided.

New distributional records for ants and the evaluation of ant species richness and endemism patterns in Mexico
Ants (Formicidae) in Mexico have been usually undersampled despite their ecological significance and their utility as service providers and bioindicators. This study estimates the species richness and the narrow endemic species number of ants across Mexico. It also documents the presence of one species newly recorded in Mexico and 19 new state-based records of 14 species from central and north Mexico. No surveys have been performed in most of the localities where we report those records, suggesting the need of a higher sampling effort in the country.We present an ant species richness estimation in a grid of 0.5 degrees in Mexico and a narrow endemic ant species estimation. Stenamma schmitii is reported for the first time from Mexico. Additionally, the new state-based records of Azteca velox, Dorymyrmex insanus, Camponotus coruscus, Camponotus striatus, Formica propatula, Lasius latipes, Neivamyrmex melanocephalus, Neivamyrmex rugulosus, Syscia augustae, Atta texana, Cephalotes scutulatus, Crematogaster crinosa and Temnothorax andrei are reported.
["Nearctic"]

Midgut bacterial diversity of a leaf-mining beetle, Dactylispa xanthospila (Gestro) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae)
Microorganisms play an essential role in the growth and development of numerous insect species. In this study, the total DNA from the midgut of adults of Dactylispa xanthospila were isolated and bacterial 16S rRNA sequenced using the high-throughput Illumina MiSeq platform. Then, the composition and diversity of the midgut bacterial community were analysed with QIIME2. The results showed the midgut bacteria of D. xanthospila belong to 30 phyla, 64 classes, 135 orders, 207 families and 369 genera. At the phylum level, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were the dominant bacteria, accounting for 91.95%, 3.44% and 2.53%, respectively. The top five families are Enterobacteriaceae (69.51%), Caulobacteraceae (5.24%), Rhizobiaceae (4.61%), Sphingomonadaceae (4.23%) and Comamonadaceae (2.67%). The bacterial community's primary functions are carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism and cofactor and vitamin metabolism, which are important for the nutritional requirements of plant-feeding insects.
["gut microbita"]
["Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Studies on Chitinases and Chitosanases"]

Detailed description and illustration of larva, pupa and imago of Holorusia mikado (Westwood, 1876) (Diptera: Tipulidae) from Japan
Holorusia Loew, 1863 (Diptera: Tipulidae) is a relatively large crane fly genus with a wide distribution in the Afrotropic, Australasian–Oceanian, Eastern Palearctic, Oriental, and Nearctic regions. Although the genus is well known to include the largest crane fly species, the immature stages are thus far only described for the larva and pupa of the North American Holorusia hesperea Arnaud & Byers, 1990.In this study, we describe for the first time the egg, larva and pupae of the Japanese Holorusia mikado (Westwood, 1876). Larvae were collected from semi-aquatic habitats, from slow flowing areas of streams and small waterfalls where leaf litter accumulates, the larvae are detritivores and feed on wet, decomposing leaves. The larvae were reared to adults in the laboratory. Morphological characters of immature stages discussed with comparison with the North American H. hespera. Male and female genitalia are illustrated and described in detail for the first time.
["anal field"]

Clubiona jiugong sp. nov., the fifth species of C. zilla-group from China (Araneae: Clubionidae)
The Clubiona zilla-group is a relatively small species group, distributed exclusively in East Asia, with only three species clearly documented so far.Clubiona hooda Dong & Zhang, 2016, which was previously placed in the C. trivialis-group, is assigned to the C. zilla-group in the present paper. A new spider of the C. zilla-group from Jiugong Mountains in China is described under the name of C. jiugong sp. nov. Detailed descriptions and photographs of the new species are provided.

Species conservation profile and amended distribution of Cousinia knorringiae (Asteraceae), a narrow endemic of the Western Tian-Shan
Cousinia knorringiae Bornm. (Asteraceae) belongs C. to sect. Subappendiculatae Tschern., a group of the species-rich and taxonomically difficult genus. This species is narrowly distributed in the Western Tian-Shan and has been known as endemic to Kyrgyzstan. It inhabits bare rocks and screes at elevations of 1200–1500 m above sea level. This species is of conservation interest because of its small population size and limited distribution.Cousinia knorringiae is reported for the first time from eastern Uzbekistan on the basis of specimens collected on Ungur-Tepa Mt., a south-western outlier of the Bozbu-Too Mts. (Western Tian-Shan). The conservation status of the species is assessed as Endangered (EN), based on criterion D (estimated population size 200-250 mature individuals), according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria (version 3.1). A new distribution map and a line drawing for C. knorringiae are provided, and its type locality is clarified. The new knowledge suggests that the species is endemic to the East Fergana botanical hotspot, which includes a transborder territory shared between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, and should therefore be subjected to international conservation measures. The southern extension of Ungur-Tepa Mt. harbours important plant species, which cannot be found elsewhere in Uzbekistan, and may therefore be proposed for legal protection.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

First record of the lace bug genus Eritingis (Drake and Ruhoff) (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae) from Japan and Thailand
The lace bug genus Eritingis Drake and Ruhoff, 1962 is widely distributed in the Australian and Oriental Regions, whereas only a single species, E. recentis (Drake and Poor, 1937), has been recorded from the Oriental Region. To date, E. recentis is known to occur in Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, and Vietnam, but has not been recorded from Japan and Thailand.Eritingis and E. recentis are recorded from Japan and Thailand for the first time.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Benthic communities in three Mediterranean touristic ports: MAPMED project
Mediterranean ports are sources of significant economic activity and at the same time they act as recipients of considerable anthropogenic disturbance and pollution. Macrobenthic communities are an important component of the port biota and have been used as environmental quality indicators.Macrobenthic assemblages were recorded in three Mediterranean touristic ports under the framework of the ENPI CBC MED project MAPMED. Samples were collected from Cagliari (Sardinia, Italy), Heraklion (Crete, Greece) and El Kantaoui (Tunisia) ports during February, May and September 2012. The sampling stations were selected according to the different sectors within each port (i.e. leisure, fishing, passenger/cargo vessels, shipyard). A total number of 277 taxa belonging to 12 phyla were found, of which the 96 taxa were found in all three ports. El Kantaoui port hosted the highest number of macrobenthic taxa. Mollusca were the most abundant group (34%) in all ports. The highest percentage of opportunistic taxa per station was found before the touristic period in the shipyard of Heraklion port (89.3%).
["macrobenthos"]

The spread of Colletes hederae Schmidt & Westrich, 1993 continues – first records of this plasterer bee species from Slovakia and the Czech Republic
Colletes hederae Schmidt & Westrich, 1993 is a cryptic bee species from the C. succinctus species-group. The previous occurrence and spreading of this species were predominantly in south-western Europe. To determine if the species was spreading in Slovak territory, Hedera helix was monitored from autumn 2015. The ivy-bee was first recorded in Slovakia during autumn 2017. This species is widespread inside and around Bratislava; however, it was not recorded under this study in any sites located eastwards. In the Czech Republic, it was not recorded in the south-east part of the country in 2017–2019. In 2020, the occurrence of this species was confirmed in many localities in the south of the country and strong populations were discovered, especially in the towns Znojmo and Mikulov. The populations likely originated from neighbouring Austria, where this species was discovered in 2006 and the localities are usually less than 100 km away from Czech and Slovak localities. A further survey could map a route of the northwards spread of this species.

Ascodipteron sanmingensis sp. nov., a new bat fly (Hippoboscidae: streblid grade) from Fujian, China
The bat fly genus Ascodipteron Adensamer, 1896 currently contains 15 species, all of which occur in tropical and subtropical areas of the Eastern Hemisphere. A new species of endoparasitic bat fly, Ascodipteron sanmingensis sp. nov., was collected from the Great Himalayan Leaf-nosed Bat, Hipposideros armiger (Hodgson, 1853), during ecological studies on bats in Fujian, China.A new species, Ascodipteron sanmingensis sp. nov., is described based on dealate neosomic females and is supported by molecular data from a 368 bp fragment of the cytochrome B (Cytb) gene. Habitus and diagnostic details as well as the attachment sites on the host are documented with photographs. A detailed comparison of the new species with related species is provided and the new species is accommodated in the most recent key to the world species of Ascodipteron.
["Ascodipterinae"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Patterns of richness, diversity and abundance of an odonate assemblage from a tropical dry forest in the Santiago Dominguillo Region, Oaxaca, México (Insecta: Odonata)
A study on the patterns of richness, diversity and abundance of the Odonata from Santiago Dominguillo, Oaxaca is presented here. A total of 1601 specimens from six families, 26 genera and 50 species were obtained through monthly samplings of five days each. Libellulidae was the most diverse family (21 species), followed by Coenagrionidae (19), Gomphidae (4) and Calopterygidae (3). The Lestidae, Platystictidae and Aeshnidae families were the less diverse, with only one species each. Argia was the most speciose genus with 11 species, followed by Enallagma, Hetaerina, Erythrodiplax and Macrothemis with three species each and Phyllogomphoides, Brechmorhoga, Dythemis, Erythemis and Orthemis with two species each. The remaining 17 genera had one species each. Argia pipila Calvert, 1907 and Leptobasis vacillans Hagen in Selys, 1877 were recorded for the first time for the state of Oaxaca. We also analysed the temporal patterns of taxonomic and phylogenetic divergence for the Santiago Dominguillo Odonata assemblage: the Shannon diversity value throughout the year was 21.07 effective species, while the Simpson diversity was 13.17. In general, the monthly phylogenetic divergence was higher than expected for taxonomic distinctness, and lesser for average taxonomic distinctness. Monthly diversity, evenness and taxonomic divergence showed significant positive correlations (from moderate to strong) with monthly precipitation values. The analysis of our results, however, indicates that an increase in rainfall not only influences the temporal diversity of species, but also the identity of supraspecific taxa that constitute those temporal assemblages, i.e. there is an increase in temporal phylogenetic divergence.
["assemblage structure"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

The first description of the nymphal stages of Hoplopleura longula (Psocodea: Anoplura: Hoplopleuridae) from the harvest mouse Micromys minutus (Rodentia: Muridae)
Despite the widespread belief that an extensive body of knowledge exists for the sucking lice Anoplura, some of their common, Eurasian or even cosmopolitan species still lack ordered taxonomic descriptions, especially those of their nymphal stages. This applies especially to the most common rodent parasites: the lice of the genus Hoplopleura. In Europe, only two of the five most common species have full taxonomic characteristics with a description of the immature stages. This study enriches the current state of knowledge for another species, Hoplopleura longula, and presents the first description of its nymphs.The study includes five rare lice specimens (two nymphs I, one nymph II, two nymphs III) of H. longula collected from 63 Eurasian harvest mice Micromys minutus. The collected lice were fixed and preserved in 70% ethyl alcohol solution, and then dumped in polyvinyl-lactophenol to form total preparations.Only two from five species found in Eurasia (H. acanthopus, H. affinis, H. captiosa, H. edentula, H. longula) have been given full taxonomic descriptions including juvenile stages. This paper presents a description of nymphs H. longula (described for the first time).
["mammals"]

Marine algal flora of São Miguel Island, Azores
The macroalgal flora of the Island of São Miguel (eastern group of the Azores archipelago) has attracted the interest of many researchers in the past, the first publications going back to the nineteenth century. Initial studies were mainly taxonomic, resulting in the publication of a checklist of the Azorean benthic marine algae. Later, the establishment of the University of the Azores on the Island permited the logistic conditions to develop both temporal studies and long-term research, and this resulted in a significant increase on research directed at the benthic marine algae and littoral communities of the Island and consequent publications.Prior to the present paper, the known macroalgal flora of São Miguel Island comprised around 260 species. Despite this richness, a significant amount of the research was never made public, notably Masters and PhD theses encompassing information regarding presence data recorded at littoral and sublittoral levels down to a depth of approximately 40 m around the Island, and the many collections made, which resulted in vouchers deposited in the AZB Herbarium Ruy Telles Palhinha and the LSM- Molecular Systematics Laboratory at the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of the University of the Azores.The present publication lists the macroalgal taxonomic records together with information on their ecology and occurrence around São Miguel Island, improving the knowledge of the Azorean macroalgal flora at local and regional scales.A total of 12,781 specimens (including some identified only to genus) belonging to 431 taxa of macroalgae are registered, comprising 284 Rhodophyta, 59 Chlorophyta and 88 Ochrophyta (Phaeophyceae). Of these, 323 were identified to species level (212 Rhodophyta, 48 Chlorophyta and 63 Ochrophyta), of which 61 are new records for the Island (42 Rhodophyta, 9 Chlorophyta and 10 Ochrophyta), 1 an Azorean endemic (Predaea feldmannii subsp. azorica Gabriel), 5 are Macaronesian endemisms (the red algae Botryocladia macaronesica Afonso-Carrillo, Sobrino, Tittley & Neto, Laurencia viridis Gil-Rodríguez & Haroun, Millerella tinerfensis (Seoane-Camba) S.M.Boo & J.M.Rico, Phyllophora gelidioides P.Crouan & H.Crouan ex Karsakoff and the green alga Codium elisabethiae O.C.Schmidt), 19 are introduced species (15 Rhodophyta, 2 Chlorophyta and 2 Ochrophyta), and 32 are of uncertain status (21 Rhodophyta, 5 Chlorophyta and 6 Ochrophyta).
["macroalgae"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Seaweed-derived Bioactive Compounds", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

Standardised inventories of spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) on touristic trails of the native forests of the Azores (Portugal)
The sharp increase in tourist visitation of the Azores archipelago from 2015 onwards raised concerns about the impacts of recreational tourism on native habitats. In response, a project was financed by the Azorean Government to investigate the drivers of biodiversity erosion associated to recreational tourism. Here, we present the data on spider biodiversity found on trails located within the native Azorean forests as they are home to several endemic species of great conservation value. We applied an optimized and standardised sampling protocol (COBRA) in twenty-three plots located in five trails on Terceira and São Miguel Islands, and assessed diversity and abundance of spider species at different distances from the trailhead and the trail itself.Of the 45 species (12435 specimens) collected, 13 were endemic to the Azores (9690 specimens), 10 native non-endemic (2047 specimens), and 22 introduced (698 specimens). This database will be the baseline of a long-term monitoring project for the assessment of touristic impacts on native forest trails. This methodology can be used on other habitats and biogeograhical regions.
["Animal and Plant Science Education", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Floresorchestia kongsemae sp. n. a new species (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Talitridae) from Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
The genus Floresorchestia (Bousfield, 1984) is widely distributed in terrestrial and marine coastal habitats. It has been found from coastal South Africa through to the Indo-Pacific region and the Caribbean Sea in Central America. Two species of Floresorchestia have been reported in Thailand, Floresorchestia boonyanusithii Wongkamhaeng et al. (2016) and Floresorchestia buraphana Wongkamhaeng et al. (2016). This work reports on a new species of Floresorchestia found at Kasetsart University in a human-made pond and neighbouring areas.Classification of the new species was achieved by considering the left mandible 5-dentate; gnathopod 2 posterior margin merus carpus and propodus covered in palmate setae, palm reaching about 33% along posterior margin; uropod 3 peduncle with three robust setae; telson dorsal midline half the length of its breadth and four robust setae per lobe. The breeding season, distribution, and tentative migration are also discussed.
["Land hopper"]

Potamophylax coronavirus sp. n. (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae), a new species from Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park in the Republic of Kosovo, with molecular and ecological notes
The Western Balkans are an important hotspot of caddisfly diversity in Europe, with several microscale endemics, many of whom were discovered during the recent years. The genus Potamophylax Wallengren, 1891 likely originated and diversified in Europe, with the Balkan Peninsula being one of the most important diversity hotspots. In this paper, we describe the new species Potamophylax coronavirusi sp. n. from Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park in the Republic of Kosovo. The new species belongs to the Potamophylax winneguthi species group and is morphologically most similar to Potamophylax juliani Kumanski 1999, currently known only from Bulgaria, and Potamophylax winneguthi Klapalek, 1902, known from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia. The male of the new species differs from its most similar congeners mainly in exhibiting (1) elongated subrectangular superior appendages in lateral view; (2) hardly acuminate, almost rounded apex of intermediate appendages; (3) differently shaped, irregular and higher inferior appendages; (4) narrow spinate area, roughly rectangular in dorsal view, slightly wider at the base, and (5) paramere shape and/or spine pattern. The new species also differs by its considerably smaller size and association with open, high altitude eucrenal zones. In the phylogenetic analysis, the relatively long branch leading to P. coronavirusi sp. n. shows that this species' divergence is on par with those among the other species in the P. winneguthi species group.The new species is most probably a microendemic of Bjeshkët e Nemuna, thus highlighting further this area as an important hotspot of caddisfly biodiversity in Europe.
["rare species"]

Scirpus radicans (Cyperaceae), a newly-discovered native species in Lithuania: population, habitats and threats
A previously unrecorded native species, Scirpus radicans (Cyperaceae), was discovered in the southern part of Lithuania in 2020. Although this species has a large distribution area in other parts of Eurasia, it is currently recognised as threatened in many European countries. Recordings of S. radicans in Lithuania had been expected, as these plants do occur or have been reported to occur in neighbouring regions. The aim of this study was to analyse the distribution of S. radicans in southern Lithuania, to determine the occupied areas and the size of populations, to study their capacity of vegetative reproduction, their habitats and associated plant communities, as well as to perform an assessment of the species' conservation status within the country. We studied S. radicans populations at two sites on the shores of Lake Pabezninkai and of Lake Netečius in the Varėna District (southern Lithuania), from August to October 2020. A total of 993 individuals of S. radicans were counted and their stands comprised 0.73 ha. The density of individuals in the studied plots ranged from 0.02 to 0.78 plants/m2. Only 0.5% of individuals at Lake Pabezninkai and 20.7% of individuals at Lake Netečius were at the stage of generative reproduction. Individuals at the stage of vegetative reproduction comprised 56.4%, whereas generative individuals amounted to 1.7% of all studied plants. One to seven stolons developed per plant and the mean number of rosettes per stolon was 2.8 ± 1.2. Potentially, a total of ca. 2860 rosettes could be expected from all individuals of the studied plots, but the actual realised rate of vegetative reproduction is unknown. A more detailed study of the reproductive capacities of S. radicans would be required for better understanding the causes of the lately observed decrease of this species in most of the countries of Central Europe. Our analysis of the associated plant communities has enabled us to confirm the presence of a Scirpetus radicantis Nowiński 1930 association previously not recorded in Lithuania. By assessing S. radicans in accordance with the IUCN Criteria, we conclude that this species should be classified as endangered (EN) in Lithuania. Based on this assessment, we propose to include this species on the list of legally protected species of Lithuania. Conservation of shallow lakes with sandy or muddy shores and with significant natural fluctuations of the water level is the main measure for ensuring the survival of S. radicans, as well as other rare and endangered species adapted to such a type of habitat.
["assessment"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Liverwort flora of Ayan – a gained link between subarctic and hemiboreal floras in West Okhotiya (Pacific Russia)
The liverwort flora of Ayan was first investigated one hundred and fifty years after the first exploration of vascular plants. A number of factors has determined the relatively high taxonomic diversity of liverworts in this hemiarctic flora of small-sized area: 118 species and one subspecies were revealed. These data are new not only for the studied area, but also for the huge land adjacent to the western coast of the Sea of Okhotsk. The liverwort flora possesses the domination of taxa common in the hemiarctic, although with a lot of taxa more common in boreal as well as arctic-alpine environments. The presence of Mega-Beringian and calciphilous taxa is the peculiar trait of the studied liverwort flora. Based on detrended correspondence analysis (DCA), Ayan liverwort flora shows relationships to the continental mainland floras situated both in North-East Asian hemiarctic and hemiboreal East Asia and is, therefore, the link between both. The flora of Ayan surroundings is one of the newly-filled ‘blank spots’ in the possible floral exchange way between Arctic Northeast Asia and mountainous floras of temperate East Asia.

Updated check-list of the mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) of Iraq
Based on a recent field survey in Iraqi Kurdistan and a critical evaluation of previously published data, 37 mayfly species are listed as occurring in Iraq. We collected and identified nine species as new for the country and corrected some previously published records. For several species scarcely treated in the literature, we provide information allowing their identification in the larval stage to promote the acquisition of reliable faunistic data from Iraq in the future.
["aquatic biodiversity"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Marine algal flora of Santa Maria Island, Azores
The algal flora of the Island of Santa Maria (eastern group of the Azores archipelago) has attracted interest of many researchers on numerous past occasions (such as Drouët 1866, Agardh 1870, Trelease 1897, Schmidt 1931, Ardré et al. 1974, Fralick and Hehre 1990, Neto et al. 1991, Morton and Britton 2000, Amen et al. 2005, Wallenstein and Neto 2006, Tittley et al. 2009, Wallenstein et al. 2009a, Wallenstein et al. 2010, Botelho et al. 2010, Torres et al. 2010, León-Cisneros et al. 2011, Martins et al. 2014, Micael et al. 2014, Rebelo et al. 2014, Ávila et al. 2015, Ávila et al. 2016, Machín-Sánchez et al. 2016, Uchman et al. 2016, Johnson et al. 2017, Parente et al. 2018). Nevertheless, the Island macroalgal flora is not well-known as published information reflects limited collections obtained in short term visits by scientists. To overcome this, a thorough investigation, encompassing collections and presence data recording, was undertaken at both the littoral and sublittoral levels down to a depth of approximately 40 m, covering an area of approximately 64 km2. The resultant taxonomic records are listed in the present paper which also provides information on species ecology and occurrence around the Island, improving, thereby, the knowledge of the Azorean macroalgal flora at both local and regional scales.A total of 2329 specimens (including some taxa identified only to genus level) belonging to 261 taxa of macroalgae are registered, comprising 152 Rhodophyta, 43 Chlorophyta and 66 Ochrophyta (Phaeophyceae). Of these, 176 were identified to species level (103 Rhodophyta, 29 Chlorophyta and 44 Ochrophyta), encompassing 52 new records for the Island (30 Rhodophyta, 9 Chlorophyta and 13 Ochrophyta), 2 Macaronesian endemisms (Laurencia viridis Gil-Rodríguez & Haroun; and Millerella tinerfensis (Seoane-Camba) S.M.Boo & J.M.Rico), 11 introduced (the Rhodophyta Acrothamnion preissii (Sonder) E.M.Wollaston, Antithamnion hubbsii E.Y.Dawson, Asparagopsis armata Harvey, Asparagopsis armata Harvey phase Falkenbergia rufolanosa (Harvey) F.Schmitz, Bonnemaisonia hamifera Hariot, Melanothamnus harveyi (Bailey) Díaz-Tapia & Maggs, Scinaia acuta M.J.Wynne and Symphyocladia marchantioides (Harvey) Falkenberg; the Chlorophyta Codium fragile subsp. fragile (Suringar) Hariot; and the Ochrophyta Hydroclathrus tilesii (Endlicher) Santiañez & M.J.Wynne, and Papenfussiella kuromo (Yendo) Inagaki), and 19 species of uncertain status (11 Rhodophyta, 3 Chlorophyta and 5 Ochrophyta).
["Macroalgae"]

The family Stratiomyidae in Egypt and Saudi Arabia (Diptera: Stratiomyoidea)
This study systematically catalogues all known taxa of the family Stratiomyidae in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. It is one in a series of planned studies aiming to catalogue the whole order in both countries.Twenty species belonging to seven genera and three subfamilies (Pachygastrinae, Stratiomyinae and Nemotelinae) are treated. One of these genera, Oplodontha, and two species, Oplodontha pulchriceps Loew and Oxycera turcica Üstüner & Hasbenli, are recorded herein for the first time from Saudi Arabia. A lectotype for Nemotelus matrouhensis Mohammad et al., 2009 is designated. An updated classification, synonymies, type localities, world and local distributions, dates of collection and some colored photographs are provided.
["soldier-flies"]

Distribution of testate amoebae in bryophyte communities in São Miguel Island (Azores Archipelago)
Testate amoebae are a polyphyletic group of protists living preferentially in soils, freshwaters and wetlands. These Protozoa have worldwide distribution, but their presence and diversity in the Azores (a remote oceanic archipelago) is poorly known, with only twelve taxa recorded so far. The published information reflects occasional collections from sporadic field visits from naturalists to the island, mainly in the nineteenth century. To overcome these, a standardized survey was carried out in São Miguel Island, sampling different types of habitats on several localities to provide the distribution and information on species ecology of testate amoebae.In this study, 43 species of testate amoebae were recorded (within a total of 499 occurrences), belonging to two orders of Protista (26 Arcellinida and 17 Euglyphida). The most frequently occurring testate amoebae were Euglypha strigosa, Trinema lineare, Euglypha rotunda, Assulina muscosum and Cyclopyxis eurystoma.. The most diverse genera were Euglypha (6 species). A total of 38 species are new records for the Azores Archipelago. These data help to improve knowledge of the geographical distribution of testate amoebae in the northern hemisphere and their diversity in the Azores Archipelago.
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

Effects of stream permanence on stonefly (Insecta, Plecoptera) community structure at Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, USA
Stoneflies (Plecoptera) are often associated with inhabiting cold perennial streams, but many species also inhabit intermittent streams that experience reduced or lack of flow during summer and autumn. In this study, the influence of stream permanence on stonefly assemblage composition and spatial distribution at Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, USA, was addressed, based on a 14 month sampling regime from the fullest range of stream sizes and habitable flow regions available. Adult stoneflies were collected monthly from 43 sites at the Park plus an additional two sites at the near-adjacent Western Kentucky University Green River Preserve. Collections were done from December 2018–November 2019 using a standard timed protocol with beating sheets for adults and once in December 2019–January 2020 for larvae. Stream sites were assigned one of five category types: perennial spring runs, perennial spring seeps, upland perennial streams, perennial riverine and summer dry runs. In total, 34 species were collected. The most prominent difference in stonefly community structure was between spring runs, spring seeps and summer dry streams vs. upland perennial streams. Approximately 88% of species collected had univoltine-fast life cycles and 79% likely had an extended period of egg or larval diapause. Due to the predominance of small upland perennial and summer dry streams, species commonly typically found in larger lotic systems are fundamentally filtered out of the region due to the lack of available habitats. Species able to survive in intermittent habitats do so by life history adaptations including to survive desiccation as larvae or eggs.

Standardised arthropod (Arthropoda) inventory across natural and anthropogenic impacted habitats in the Azores archipelago
In this paper we present an extensive checklist of arthropods and its distribution in five islands of the Azores, under increasing anthropogenic impacted habitats. Habitat surveys included five herbaceous and four arboreal habitat types, scaling up from native to anthropogenic managed habitats. We aimed to contribute to the ongoing effort to document the terrestrial biodiversity of the world, in particular the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores, as islands harbor a significant portion of unique terrestrial biodiversity. Selection of arthropoda groups for the current checklist were based on their known richness and abundance (Arachnida, Collembola, Hemiptera, Neuroptera, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera), in almost all terrestrial ecosystems, as well as their importance in current Integrated Pest Management and alternative Biocontrol protocols, at large (i.e., Hymenopteran parasitoids and beneficial Coleoptera). In addition, we include the list of Dermaptera, Orthoptera, Psocoptera and Thysanoptera species. These assembled groups represent part of the monitoring program EDEN Azores (2008-2014), where all Arthropod fauna, at all strata, within eight representative habitats of five islands of the Azores (Santa Maria. São Miguel, Terceira, Flores and Pico) was recorded.In this study, a total of 116,908 specimens belonging to 485 species and subspecies of selected groups of arthropods are reported by order, family and when possible genera and species. These represent a sub-set of the Arthropoda found during the monitoring program of the research project EDEN (2008-2014) carried out in the Azores archipelago. Hymenopteran, mostly parasitoids (194 species and mophospecies) accounted for the highest represented taxa across all the monitoring and sampling phase of EDEN Azores, followed by Coleoptera (95 species); Collembola (89 species); and Araneae (72 species). A total of 41 non-native species are reported for the first time in the Azores. Araneae: Liophrurillus flavitarsis (Lucas, 1846), Phrurolinillus lisboensis Wunderlich, 1995 (both Phrurolithidae). Coleoptera: Asaphidion flavipes (Linnaeus, 1761) (Carabidae); Tachyporus dispar (Paykull, 1789) (Staphylinidae), Nephus voeltzkowi (Weise, 1910) (Coccinellidae). Hemiptera: Acrosternum heegeri Fieber, 1861 (Pentatomidae). Collembola: Entomobrya regularis Stach, 1963 (Entomobryidae); Lepidocyrtus lusitanicus piezoensis (Simón-Benito, 2007) (Entomobryidae); Jordanathrix articulata (Ellis, 1974) (Sminthuridae); Sminthurinus quadrimaculatus (Ryder, 1879) (Katiannidae); Himalanura sp. (Entomobryidae); Protophorura sp. (Onychiuridae). Hymenoptera, parasitoids: Aphidius colemani Viereck, 1912 (Braconidae); Aphidius ervi Haliday, 1834 (Braconidae); Aphidius matricariae Viereck, 1912 (Braconidae); Aphidius rhopalosiphi Stefani-Perez, 1902 (Braconidae); Aphidius rosae (Haliday, 1834) (Braconidae); Aphidius urticae Haliday, 1834 (Braconidae); Centistidea ectoedemiae Rohwer, 1914 (Braconidae); Gonatopus clavipes (Thunberg, 1827) (Dryinidae); Meteorus unicolor (Wesmael, 1835) (Braconidae); Meteorus collaris (Spin.) Hal. – Ruschka, Fulmek, 1915 (Braconidae); Orthostigma cratospilum (Thomson, 1895) (Braconidae); Orthostigma latriventris Ratzeburg, 1844 (Braconidae); two other species of Orthostigma sp.; Pseudopezomachus bituberculatus (Marshall, 1905) (Braconidae); Tanycarpa punctata (van Achterberg, 1976) (Braconidae). New genera not previously recorded to Azores include: Pycnetron sp. (Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae); Eucolidae sp. (Cynipoidea: Figitidae); four species of Aspilota sp. (Braconidae: Aphidiinae); four species of Chorebus sp. (Braconidae: Aphidiinae: Alysiinae); Microgaster sp. (Braconidae: Microgastrinae); Homolobus sp. (Braconidae: Homolobinae); Lodbrokia sp. (Braconidae).These 41 taxa were found in several islands and correspond to the addition of six new species for Flores island, 12 species for Pico island, 15 species for Terceira island, 11 species for S. Miguel island and seven species for S. Maria island.Additional species records for the islands included: Flores (5 Collembola, 9 Araneae; 2 Hemiptera; 8 Coleoptera, 8 Hymenoptera), Pico (4 Collembola; 7 Araneae; 4 Hemiptera; 11 Coleoptera; 9 Hymenoptera), Terceira (4 Collembola; 1 Araneae; 3 Hymenoptera), S. Miguel (1 Araneae; 2 Coleoptera; 3 Hymenoptera), S. Maria (5 Collembola; 3 Araneae; 2 Hemiptera; 2 Hymenoptera).
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Aquatic macroinvertebrates in Uruguayan rice agroecosystem
This work is a first approach to the knowledge of insects and other aquatic macroinvertebrates of rice agroecosystems from eastern Uruguay. The composition of the groups collected may represent an approximation to the knowledge of the quality of water sources associated with Uruguayan rice production. Sampling of aquatic macroinvertebrates was carried out during the grain-filling stage in crops without insecticide use, in three localities of Treinta y Tres Department. In each crop, macroinvertebrates were collected with a Surber-type network at the inlet and outlet of water to and from the paddy field and a neighbouring control area. Differences in morphospecies composition were found according to the location and source of water. Insecta was the most represented class in macroinvertebrate samplings (41.5%). Diptera (59.9%), Hemiptera (16.3%) and Ephemeroptera (14.0%) were the most abundant orders within insects. The Richness and Shannon Diversity Indices were higher than those recorded for similar studies in Costa Rica, Italy and Australia.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect Resistance and Genetics", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Allophoma species (Pleosporales: Didymellaceae) associated with Thunbergia grandiflora in Guangxi Province, China
Thunbergia grandiflora belongs to the family Acanthaceae, and is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. Three isolates of Allophoma were made from leaves of T. grandiflora in Guangxi Province, China.Phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS, rpb2, tub2 and LSU datasets indicate that one strain showed a fairly close affinity with A. minor and the other two strains clustered with A. pterospermicola. Evidences from morphology and sequence analysis indicate that GUCC 2070.7 is a novel species which we introduce herein as A. thunbergiae. This is the first report about taxa of Allophoma in this plant host.
["one new species"]

Avian diversity in forest, agriculture and water stream habitats of Dehradun Valley, Uttarakhand, India
The Western Himalaya is recognised for its biological diversity and ecological values. An attempt was made to understand the avian diversity distribution in Forest, Agriculture and Water stream habitats of Dehradun (Western Himalaya) Uttarakhand. A total of two hundred and thirty one species belonging to 54 families were encountered during the survey. Out of these, one endangered species (Egyptian Vulture, Neophron percnopterus) and three near-threatened species Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria), Black-necked Stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticu) and River Lapwing (Vanellus duvaucelii) and one vulnerable species Woolly-necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus) were sighted. Three avian species, Mistle Thrush, Sulphur-bellied Warbler and White-rumped Munia. have been recorded as isolates in the study area. The presence of these species indicates the habitats extension in Dehradun District of Uttarakhand. The present study provides significant records in the study site and provides a baseline data for future study with reference to conservation in Dehradun Region.
["avian diversity"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

New record of the lace bug species Acalypta marginata (Wolff) (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Tingidae) from Japan
The lace bug species Acalypta marginata (Wolff, 1804) has to date been widely known to occur in the Palaearctic Region but has not been recorded from Japan.Acalypta marginata is recorded from Japan for the first time. Its habitat in Japan is the grassland of Hokkaido. A key to the species of Acalypta occurring in Japan is provided.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Revealing the active microbiome connected with the rhizosphere soil of maize plants in Ventersdorp, South Africa
We conducted shotgun metagenomics sequencing of the maize rhizosphere and bulk soils in Ventersdorp, South Africa. Information on the structural composition and functional capabilities of microbial communities in the maize rhizosphere are provided by the data. Characterising the functional potentials of rhizosphere microbiomes gives an opportunity to link the microbiome to plant growth and health and provides the possibility of discovering new plant-beneficial genes that could enhance agricultural sustainability.
["Illumina sequencing"]
["Plant-Microbe Interactions and Immunity", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Monitoring of adult emergence in the pine processionary moth between 1970 and 1984 in Mont Ventoux, France
The current climate change has marked impacts on the phenology of species, i.e., the timing of the various stages of their life cycle. Yet, to fully understand how phenological patterns are modified by the changes of temperature regimes, it is of prime importance to rely on high quality historical data. We here document a very valuable data set including the individual monitoring of the end of the larval phase and the date of adult emergence in the pine processionary moth Thaumetopoea pityocampa. A total of 46 479 caterpillars were followed between 1970 and 1984 in 6 sites along an altitudinal gradient in southern France. As optional prolonged diapause occurs in this species, i.e. some individuals experience one or more years of diapause before emerging, the caterpillars sampled any given year were monitored during up to 5 years. The goal was to give precise information about phenology in this species to further analyse its spatial and temporal patterns of variation.This dataset is unique by its richness and the type of data it contains. Phenology in the pine processionary moth is often monitored by the use of pheromone traps in the field, which does not provide all the necessary information because it is then not possible to trace back the exact origin of the moth trapped, nor to characterise other steps of the life cycle. More, as it corresponds to historical data dating back to the 70s and the 80s, it provides a historical baseline of trends in the pre-warming period.
["Phenology", "Diapause", "Ecology", "Pupa", "Climate change", "Biology", "Geography", "Larva"]
["Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Bee Products Chemical Analysis", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

First records of the Palaestes abruptus Sharp, 1899 and P. nicaraguae Sharp, 1899 (Coleoptera: Cucujidae) from South America, with a checklist of flat bark beetles from the continent
The flat bark beetles (Coleoptera: Cucujidae) is a small insect family with only about 70 species. Most of the species are distributed in Holarctic, Oriental, and/or Australasian realms while in South America only six species have been recorded, including a single one known from Peru.Two cucujid beetle species, Palaestes abruptus Sharp, 1899 and P. nicaraguae Sharp, 1899, are recorded from South America for the first time. The species are recorded from the Pasco (P. abruptus), and Cusco and Junín (P. nicaraguae) Regions of Peru, based in part o data collected through the iNaturalist citizen science database. Habitats of both species are presented on pictures for the first time. A country-level checklist to Cucujidae species currently known from South America is provided.
["Palaestes"]

First records of the pest leaf beetle Chrysolina (Chrysolinopsis) americana (Linnaeus, 1758) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) in Cyprus - a study initiated from social media
The leaf beetle Chrysolina (Chrysolinopsis) americana (Linnaeus, 1758), commonly known as the Rosemary beetle, is native to some parts of the Mediterranean region. In the last few decades, it has expanded its distribution to new regions in the North and Eastern Mediterranean basin. Chrysolina americana feeds on plants of the Lamiaceae family, such as Rosmarinus officinalis, Lavandula spp., Salvia spp., Thymus spp. and others. Chrysolina americana is considered a pest, as many of its host plants are of commercial importance and are often used as ornamentals in house gardens and green public spaces. In this work, we report the first occurrence of C. americana in Cyprus and we present its establishment, expansion and distribution across the Island, through recordings for the period 2015 – 2020. The study was initiated from a post on a Facebook group, where the species was noticed in Cyprus for the first time, indicating that social media and citizen science can be particularly helpful in biodiversity research.
["Rosemary beetle"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Pest Control Strategies"]

Diatoms from small ponds and terrestrial habitats in Deserta Grande Island (Madeira Archipelago)
Freshwater diversity from Desertas islands (Madeira archipelago, Portugal) is poorly known, although the islands are protected and became a Natural Reserve in 1995. To fulfil this gap, several freshwater and terrestrial habitats were sampled during two field expeditions in 2013 and 2014 to Deserta Grande island. Our aim was to perform a biodiversity assessment of the freshwater biota present in Desertas islands. Here we present the freshwater and terrestrial diatom diversity in Deserta Grande island, including some notes on their ecology and distribution. This study contributes to improve the knowledge of Madeira archipelago freshwater diversity, particular in the Desertas subarchipelago. To our knowledge, we present the first diatom data for the Desertas sub archipelago. This work resulted in a list of 61 diatom taxa for Deserta Grande, from which 57 identified to species level. From the 61 new records for Desertas sub archipelago, 30 of them were also new records for Madeira archipelago. The majority of the species are strictly associated with freshwater, but several others are typically found in brackish environments revealing the influence of sea spray in inland surface water bodies of Deserta Grande, especially at lower altitudes.
["Bacillariophyta"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds"]

Marine algal flora of Flores and Corvo Islands, Azores
The algal flora of the western group of the Azores archipelago (Islands of Flores and Corvo) has attracted the interest of many researchers on numerous past occasions (such as Drouet 1866, Trelease 1897, Gain 1914, Schmidt 1929, Schmidt 1931, Azevedo et al. 1990, Fralick and Hehre 1990, Neto and Azevedo 1990, Neto and Baldwin 1990, Neto 1996, Neto 1997, Neto 1999, Tittley and Neto 1996, Tittley and Neto 2000, Tittley and Neto 2005, Tittley and Neto 2006, Azevedo 1998, Azevedo 1999, Tittley et al. 1998, Dionísio et al. 2008, Neto et al. 2008). Despite this interest, the macroalgal flora of the Islands cannot be described as well-known with the published information reflecting limited collections preformed in short term visits by scientists. To overcome this, a thorough investigation, encompassing collections and presence data recording, has been undertaken for both the littoral and sublittoral regions, down to a depth of approximately 40 m, covering a relatively large area on both Islands (approximately 143 km2 for Flores and 17 km2 for Corvo).This paper lists the resultant taxonomic records and provides information on species ecology and occurrence around both these Islands, thereby improving the knowledge of the Azorean macroalgal flora at both local and regional scales.For the Island of Flores, a total of 1687 specimens (including some taxa identified only to genus level) belonging to 196 taxa of macroalgae are registered, comprising 120 Rhodophyta, 35 Chlorophyta and 41 Ochrophyta (Phaeophyceae). Of these taxa, 128 were identified to species level (80 Rhodophyta, 22 Chlorophyta and 26 Ochrophyta), encompassing 37 new records for the Island (20 Rhodophyta, 6 Chlorophyta and 11 Ochrophyta); two Macaronesian endemics (Laurencia viridis Gil-Rodríguez & Haroun and Millerella tinerfensis (Seoane-Camba) S.M.Boo & J.M.Rico); six introduced (the Rhodophyta Asparagopsis armata Harvey, Neoizziella divaricata (C.K.Tseng) S.-M.Lin, S.-Y.Yang & Huisman, and Symphyocladia marchantioides (Harvey) Falkenberg; the Chlorophyta Codium fragile subsp. fragile (Suringar) Hariot; and the Ochrophyta Hydroclathrus tilesii (Endlicher) Santiañez & M.J.Wynne, and Papenfussiella kuromo (Yendo) Inagaki); and 14 species of uncertain status (10 Rhodophyta, 2 Chlorophyta and 2 Ochrophyta).For the Island of Corvo, a total of 390 specimens distributed in 56 taxa of macroalgae are registered, comprising 30 Rhodophyta, 9 Chlorophyta and 17 Ochrophyta (Phaeophyceae). Whilst a number of taxa were identified only to the genus level, 43 were identified to species level (22 Rhodophyta, 8 Chlorophyta and 13 Ochrophyta), comprising 22 new records for the Island (9 Rhodophyta, 4 Chlorophyta and 9 Ochrophyta), two introduced species (the Rhodophyta Asparagopsis armata and the Chlorophyta Codium fragile subsp. fragile, and seven species of uncertain status (5 Rhodophyta and 2 Ochrophyta).
["Macroalgae"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Iridopsis socoromaensis sp. n., a geometrid moth (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) from the Andes of northern Chile
Iridopsis Warren, 1894 (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Ennominae: Boarmiini) is a New World moth genus mainly diversified in the Neotropical region. It is represented in Chile by two described species, both from the Atacama Desert.Iridopsis socoromaensis sp. n. (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Ennominae: Boarmiini) is described and illustrated from the western slopes of the Andes of northern Chile. Its folivorous larvae feed on the Chilean endemic shrub Dalea pennellii (J.F. Macbr.) J.F. Macbr. var. chilensis Barneby (Fabaceae). Morphological differences of I. socoromaensis sp. n. with the two species of the genus previously known from Chile are discussed. A DNA barcode fragment of I. socoromaensis sp. n. showed 94.34–93.72% similarity with the Nearctic I. sanctissima (Barnes & McDunnough, 1917). However, the morphology of the genitalia suggests that these two species are distantly related. The discovery of I. socoromaensis sp. n. highlights the need for additional surveys in underexplored areas to understand better the taxonomic diversity and evolutionary relationships of the mainly Neotropical moth genus Iridopsis.
["Boarmiini"]

An update to the distribution of invasive Ctenolepisma longicaudatum Escherich in northern Europe, with an overview of other records of Estonian synanthropic bristletails (Insecta: Zygentoma)
Previously, two species of Zygentoma have been reported from Estonia, both synanthropically. Ctenolepisma longicaudatum Escherich, 1905 is an invasive species that currently expands its range in Europe, but had no published records from the northern Baltic region.Ctenolepisma longicaudatum was first found in Estonia in 2018. It has currently several established populations in public buildings in Tartu, but has not been found in private households, nor in other places in Estonia. A brief overview of its invasion history in northern Europe is given.
["Conservation Techniques and Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Flower-visiting insects of genus Melastoma (Myrtales: Melastomataceae) at the Fushan Botanical Garden, Taiwan
We investigated the diversity and behaviors of insects that visit flowers of four native species and a horticultural hybrid species of genus Melastoma (Family Melastomataceae) at the Fushan Botanical Garden in Taiwan biweekly from May to August 2020. Behaviors of flower-visiting insects were classified into eight categories and further assigned into four insect-flower interactions, namely pollination, herbivory, commensalism, and neutral. Our project provides baseline data of pollinator-plant interactions between the endangered M. intermedia and sympatric Melastoma species. Such information is useful in generating conservation and management actions as interspecific hybridization and genetic introgression has been reported from both wild and cultivated populations in this genus.A total of 1,289 visits to flowers were recorded by at least 63 insect species belonging to seven orders. Number of insect species recorded per Melastoma species ranged from 9 to 39. Visiting, sonication, and passing were the three most frequently recorded behaviors, collectively accounting for 90.2% (n = 1,240) of the total observations. Pollination was the most dominant insect-flower interaction, accounting for 70.2% of the total observations, followed by neutral interaction (20.0%), herbivory (6.3%), and commensalism (3.5%). Sweat bees of genera Lasioglossum and Maculonomia (Hymenoptera: Family Halictidae) are considered key pollinators to Melastoma species in Fushan Botanical Garden based on their high number of visits and sonication behaviors. Our study represents the first comprehensive checklist of insects that visit the flowers of Melastoma species in Taiwan.
["buzz pollination"]

Contribution to the knowledge of the arthropods community inhabiting the winter-flooded meadows (marcite) of northern Italy
Flooded semi-natural grasslands are endangered ecosystems throughout Europe. In Italy, among flooded meadows, one special type called “marcita” is strongly threatened. It is a stable flooded grassland used to produce green forage even during winter months due to the thermal properties of water coming from springs and fountains that prevent the soil from freezing. To date, some research has been carried out to investigate the role of the marcita for ornithological and herpetological communities. However, no comprehensive data on invertebrates inhabiting this particular biotope is available. The aim of this study was to characterize the entomological community of these typical winter-flooded meadows in northern Italy. We quantified species richness and diversity of Carabidae, Staphylinidae, Araneae, Lepidoptera, and Ortoptera of 6 marcita fields located in the Ticino Valley Regional Park and identified those species highly linked to this habitat. We found 41 ground beetle species, 29 spider species, 34 rove beetle species, 16 butterfly species, 22 overwintering beetle species (17 ground beetle, 4 rove beetle and 1 Lucanidae), and 24 grasshopper and cricket species. Marcite fields hosted specialized species and species typical of hygrophilous habitats, among which include the butterfly Lycaena dispar, the ground beetle Dolichus halensis, and the grasshopper Chrysochraon dispar. This study represents the first contribution to the knowledge of arthropod communities associated with this particular type of winter-irrigated meadow in Europe and confirms the importance of this biotope for invertebrate conservation in agricultural landscapes.A contribution to the knowledge of arthropods communities associated with flooded meadows.
["arthropods community"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

The first record of the genus Belenois (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) from China
Family Pieridae is a large group of butterflies which contains many important pollinators as well as potential pests. Pieridae is a cosmopolitan family while the tropics harbour higher species richness. In a very recent expedition to the China-Indian border area in Tibet Autonomous Region, a migratory species, Belenois aurota (Fabricius, 1793), was discovered for the first time, which comprises the first record of the genus Belenois in China and the highest altitude record of this species.The species B. aurota (Fabricius, 1793) is the first record of the genus Belenois from China. The specimen was collected at an altitude about 3,000 m in Tibet Autonomous Region. Relevant details are presented for the species.
["Belenois aurota"]

First report of the bat fly species Basilia italica in Romania
Bat flies are haematophagous ectoparasites, highly specialised to bats and are also considered to have vectorial potential for several pathogens like Bartonella spp. or Polychromophilus spp. In Romania, past studies mostly focused on the ectoparasitic fauna of cave-dwelling bats, listing the occurrence of 10 bat fly species in the country, with only scarce information on bat flies infesting crevice-roosting bat species. Here we report the occurrence of Basilia italica, a rare nycteribiid species infesting primarily forest-dwelling bats. This is the first country-record for Romania and also represents the easternmost occurrence of this species. Further studies are needed to evaluate the vectorial potential of B. italica.
["Bartonella species infections research", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

The effect of edaphic factors on the distribution and abundance of ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Iran
The current study is aimed at investigating the effect of edaphic factors on the distribution and abundance of ants in different habitats of the central areas of Iran, while considering the vegetation. During 2018 to 2019, 20 stations from four habitats, including deserts, mountainous and submontane, plains and rural areas and urban areas, were selected. In general, a total of 311 sample units were collected from all the stations, out of which, 32 species belonging to 13 genera, nine tribes and three subfamilies were identified. The biological distribution and abundance of species were argued by computing the physical and chemical parameters of the soil, such as salinity, pH, total nitrogen, organic carbon, calcium and vegetation. The present study has demonstrated that the calcium content significantly affects the species richness of ants, although the impact of this element on various genera is different. We found that increasing in the abundance and richness of plant species has a positive impact on the abundance and richness of ants. Our results also show that some genera are meaningfully adaptable to a variety of habitats. In Kahak station, which is an urban habitat, with enormous diversity, 14 species were found, while in Sadrabad Historic Karvansara, a desert habitat, only Cataglyphis lividus (André, 1881) was collected. Cataglyphis bellicosus (Karavaiev, 1924), as the most abundant species, collected from 12 stations, was the most dominant species.

Distribution of wild bee (Hymenoptera: Anthophila) and hoverfly (Diptera: Syrphidae) communities within farms undergoing ecological transition
In Havelange (Belgium), two farms are experimenting an ecological transition. We aimed to evaluate the impact of their agricultural activities on insect pollinator communities. This article depicts the situation at the very early stage of the farm transition. This study supports the environmental benefits that the agricultural diversification with the maintenance of farm-level natural habitats can provide to the conservation of two important pollinator communities: wild bees and hoverflies.Over two years (2018-2019), by using nets and colored pan-traps, we collected 6301 of bee and hoverfly specimens among contrasted habitats within two farmsteads in ecological transition at Havelange (Belgium). In combination with the historical data of the region, we reported 101 bee species and morphospecies from 15 genera within 6 families and 31 hoverfly species and morphospecies from 18 genera. This list reinforces the national pollinator database including new distribution data in the region for extinction threatened species such as Andrena schencki Morawitz, 1866, Bombus campestris (Panzer, 1801), Eucera longicornis (L.), Halictus maculatus Smith, 1848 and Melitta tricincta Kirby, 1802 or for data deficiency species such as A. semilaevis Pérez, 1903, A. fulvata (Müller, 1766), A. trimmerana (Kirby, 1802) and Hylaeus brevicornis Nylander, 1852.
["organic and regenerative farming"]

The family Conopidae (Diptera) in Egypt and Saudi Arabia
The present study is one in a series of planned studies aiming to catalogue the whole order Diptera in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia.All known Egyptian and Saudi Arabian conopid taxa are systematically catalogued in the present study. Three species recorded herein for the first time from Saudi Arabia: Conops (Asiconops) elegans Meigen, 1804 and Thecophora atra (Fabricius, 1775) (Al-Baha region, southwestern of Saudi Arabia); Conops (Conops) quadrifasciatus De Geer, 1776 (Tabuk region, northwestern of Saudi Arabia). Physocephala variegata (Meigen, 1924) is also recorded for the first time from Gebel Elba, the southeastern triangle of Egypt. Considering that Gebel Elba in Egypt and Al-Baha in Saudi Arabia are affiliated to the Afrotropical Region, this is the first time to record Physocephala variegata and Thecophora atra from the Afrotropical Region. An updated taxonomy, world and local distributions, dates of collection and some colored photographs are provided.
["thick-headed flies"]

Hydraena (s.str.) dinarica, new species (Coleoptera: Hydraenidae) along with further records of Hydraena spp. from Durmitor National Park, Montenegro and comments on the DNA barcoding problem with the genus
Long-palped Water Beetles were collected during a taxon expedition in Montenegro which involved citizen scientists, students and taxonomists. The material was collected from springs, brooks, fens and the Tara River, at altitudes between 600m and 1450 m above sea level, using fine-meshed hand-nets and by manual checking of submerged substrates. The morphological species delimitation was supplemented and congruent with mtDNA sequences mainly obtained in the field using the newly developed MinION-based ONTrack pipeline.The new species Hydraena dinarica Freitag & de Vries, sp. nov. from the Durmitor Mt. is described, illustrated and compared in detail to closely related congeners of the H. saga (d'Orchymont, 1930) / H. emarginata Rey, 1885 species complex. Five additional species and female specimens of two unidentified morphospecies of the genus were also recorded in the vicinity of Durmitor National Park. New records and the first DNA barcodes for Hydraena biltoni Jäch & Díaz, 2012 (endemic to Montenegro) and H. morio Kiesenwetter, 1849 are provided. Further records of H. nigrita Germar, 1824; H. minutissima Stephens, 1829; H. subintegra Ganglbauer, 1901 and females of two unidentified morphospecies are commented. The the resulting inter- and intraspecific genetic distances, and some observations of low or zero sequence divergence between recently diverged species of Hydraena Kugelann, 1794 are briefly discussed.
["citizen science"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Diversity and composition of plant species in the forest over limestone of Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape, Bohol, Philippines
Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape (RSPL), considered the last frontier within the Central Visayas region, is an ideal location for flora and fauna research due to its rich biodiversity. This recent study was conducted to determine the plant species composition and diversity and to select priority areas for conservation to update management strategy. A field survey was carried out in fifteen (15) 20 m x 100 m nested plots established randomly in the forest over limestone of RSPL from July to October 2019. Three hundred and sixty eight (368) species of plants were identified up to species level. This represented 327 angiosperms, one gymnosperm and 40 pteridophytes. Common plant families with more than 10 representative species were Moraceae, Meliaceae, Lauraceae, Dipterocarpaceae, Rubiaceae, Myrtaceae, Phyllanthaceae, Annonaceae, Araceae and Lauraceae. There were 93 (28%) endemic and 46 (14%) threatened species (vulnerable to critically endangered) observed. The cluster analysis and species accumulation curve suggests that plant species are not homogeneously distributed which implies that different management and conservation strategies should be implemented across RSPL. These results not only indicate the importance of RSPL, but also highlights areas with higher diversity and concentration of threatened and endemic species as a special area of concern. Furthermore, areas with high biodiversity value were recommended for immediate protection, while areas with low biodiversity value were recommended for reforestation programmes using species with high importance value.
["Central Visayas"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics"]

Diversity patterns of free-living nematode assemblages in seagrass beds from the Cuban archipelago (Caribbean Sea)
Diversity patterns of free-living marine nematodes in tropical seagrass beds are understudied. Here, we describe the species richness and assemblage composition of nematodes in 13 seagrass sites covering the whole Cuban archipelago. Nematodes were collected from Thalassia testudinum seagrass beds and identified to species level. We provide a checklist of nematode species from seagrass beds. The species richness of nematode assemblages is high, with 215 species, 138 genus, 35 families, seven orders and two classes. That γ-diversity is higher than other studies and points to seagrass beds as diversity hotspots of free-living marine nematodes. Local species richness in seagrass bed sites is about 57 ± 17 species and broadly similar across the sites, despite the environmental heterogeneity. The geographical distance plays a weak, but significant, role on the decay of similarity likely affected by limited dispersal of nematodes. The pairwise similarity values, related to poor-coloniser nematodes, were twice more affected by the distance than those related to good-colonisers, possibly due to differential success of transport and settlement.
["richness"]

Phytoplankton composition with an emphasis of Cyanobacteria and their toxins as an indicator for the ecological status of Lake Vaya (Bulgaria) – part of the Via Pontica migration route
As producers of biomass, cyanobacteria are a major part of the phytoplankton in a large number of water basins. Due to the cyanobacterial blooms and cyanotoxins produced, these organisms are recognized as a threat and ecological risk for water bodies. Released cyanotoxins may cause death of many organisms including birds and fish. Vaya Lake is the largest natural lake in Bulgaria. It is located on the Via Pontica migration route of birds between Europe and Africa. Since 2003, the lake has been declared as a "Wetland of international importance” under the Ramsar Convention. According to the literature data from 2002-2006, the Lake is defined as highly eutrophied due to strong anthropogenic pressure, but regular monitoring of the cyanobacterial blooms and presence of cyanotoxins after this period is missing. Taking into account the importance of this unique, protected ecosystem, our aim was to make a complete ecological assessment of the present state of Lake Vaya by using the phytoplankton, with an emphasis on cyanobacterial blooms and the presence of cyanotoxins. As results of the study, we 1) characterized the phytoplankton composition qualitatively and quantitatively; 2) evaluated the ecological status of the western and eastern part of the Lake; 3) identified the potential producers of cyanotoxins; 4) observed cyanobacterial blooms and discussed the influence of macrophytes on their spread; 5) measured the concentrations of the cyanotoxins MCs, CYL and STXs in water samples from both parts of the Lake. Our results indicated the need for continued observation of cyanobacterial composition, blooming and the presence of cyanotoxins in Lake Vaya.
["phytoplankton composition"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine and environmental studies", "Aquatic and Environmental Studies"]

LifeWatch observatory data: phytoplankton observations in the Belgian Part of the North Sea
This paper describes a phytoplankton data series generated through systematic observations in the Belgian Part of the North Sea (BPNS). Phytoplankton samples are collected during multidisciplinary sampling campaigns, visiting nine nearshore stations with monthly frequency, and an additional eight offshore stations on a seasonal basis.The data series contain taxon specific phytoplankton densities determined by analysis with the Flow Cytometer And Microscope (FlowCAM®) and associated image based classification. The classification is performed by two separate semi-automated classification systems, followed by manual validation by taxonomic experts. To date 637,819 biological particles have been collected and identified, yielding a large dataset of validated phytoplankton images. The collection and processing of the 2017–2018 dataset is described, along with its data curation, quality control and data storage. In addition, the classification of images using image classification algorithms based on convolutional neural networks (CNN) from 2019 onwards is also described. Data is published in a standardized format together with environmental parameters, accompanied by extensive metadata descriptions, and finally labelled with digital identifiers for traceability. The data are published under a CC‐BY 4.0 license, allowing use of the data under the condition of providing the reference to the original source.
["phytoplankton"]
["Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

Diatom diversity and distribution in Madeira Island streams (Portugal)
Here we present the data obtained from the samples collected in a field campaign during the spring of 2015 which aims for a better understanding of the diversity and distribution patterns of freshwater diatoms in Madeira Island. Following European and Portuguese standards and recommendations for routine diatom sampling and analysis, we collected samples in 40 sites distributed in 27 permanent streams and identified the diatom species present using general diatom floras and studies in Portuguese freshwater diatoms.Little is known about the diversity and distribution of freshwater diatoms assemblages from Madeira Archipelago. This study reports a survey in 40 sites in Madeira Island distributed in 27 permanent streams. A total of 965 diatom (Bacillariophyta) occurences were recorded, beloging to 130 different taxa from 44 genera and 27 families. The families with the highest number of occurrences were Bacillariaceae (176), Achnanthidiaceae (135) and Naviculaceae (133). The two diatom endemisms described previously in Madeira Island (Lange-Bertalot, 1993), Nitzschia macaronesica Lange-Bertalot and Navicula madeirensis Lange-Bertalot, were only observed in a small number of sites located mostly at Laurissilva forest. Sixty species are newly recorded, not only to Madeira Island, but also to the Madeira Archipelago.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

A revision of European species of the genus Tetrastichus Haliday (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) using integrative taxonomy
The Europan species of the genus Tetrastichus (Insecta, Hymenoptera, Eulophidae, Tetrastichinae) are revised with 93 species, including 50 species described as new. The revision was conducted using an integrative taxonomic approach, based on DNA barcoding in combination with morphological characters. The Tetrastichinae are a biologically diverse and species-rich group of parasitoid wasps with numerous complexes of morphologically often very similar species that attack a wide range of hosts in over 100 insect families in 10 different orders. The genus Tetrastichus is, with almost 500 described species, the third largest genus of Tetrastichinae. Although biological information is lacking for most species, current data indicate that Tetrastichus species are gregarious koinobiont endoparasitoids developing on juvenile stages of mainly holometabolous insects. Because of their host specificity several species of Tetrastichus are used as biological control agents. The European species of Tetrastichus Haliday (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) are revised using a combination of externo-morphological and DNA barcoding data. This is the first integrative approach for any of the large genera of the Tetrastichinae. 93 species are included, of which 50 are described as new: T. agonus sp. n., T. antonjanssoni sp. n., T. argei sp. n., T. argutus sp. n., T. asilis sp. n., T. ballotus sp. n., T. bledius sp. n., T. broncus sp. n., T. calcarius sp. n., T. calmius sp. n., T. clisius sp. n., T. cosidis sp. n., T. cumulus sp. n., T. cyprus sp. n., T. delvarei sp. n., T. doczkali sp. n., T. elanus sp. n., T. elodius sp. n., T. ennis sp. n., T. enodis sp. n., T. erinus sp. n., T. evexus sp. n., T. fadus sp. n., T. fenrisi sp. n., T. flaccius sp. n., T. gredius sp. n., T. iasi sp. n., T. illydris sp. n., T. incanus sp. n., T. inscitus sp. n., T. intruitus sp. n., T. johnnoyesi sp. n., T. lacustrinus sp. n., T. ladrus sp. n., T. lanius sp. n., T. lazius sp. n., T. lixalius sp. n., T. lycus sp. n., T. marcusgrahami sp. n., T. minius sp. n., T. mixtus sp. n., T. nataliedaleskeyae sp. n., T. nymphae sp. n., T. pixius sp. n., T. scardiae sp. n., T. splendens sp. n., T. sti sp. n., T. suecus sp. n., T. tacitus sp. n., T. tartus sp. n. Two keys for the identification of species are presented, one for females and one for males. Based on DNA barcode sequences for 70 of the species, a maximum likelihood tree to assess phylogenetic relationships within the genus is presented. These 70 species are also characterized by a combination of CO1 and morphological data. The remaining 23 species without a DNA barcode are characterized by morphological data. Using a combination of data from the morphology and CO1, or morphological data only, the species are separated into three species groups (clito-, hylotomarum-, murcia-groups) with 41 unplaced species outside these groups. Hosts are known for 27 of the species, and they are gregarious, koinobiont endoparasitoids on a wide range of immature stages of holometabolous insects, and appear to be very host specific. The first host record for Lepidoptera (Tineidae) in Europe is included.
["integrative taxonomy"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Species richness and biogeographical affinities of the marine molluscs from Bahía de Chamela, Mexico
For more than 10 years (2007-2018), the benthic macroinvertebrates of Bahía de Chamela (Mexican Pacific) were sampled at 31 sites (0-25 m depth). A total of 308 species of the five main classes of benthic molluscs were obtained (106 bivalves, 185 gastropods, 13 polyplacophorans, two scaphopods and two cephalopods). This is a significant increase in the number of species (246 new records) compared to the 62 species previously recorded more than 10 years ago. The distribution in the 31 localities of the bay is given for the first time for most of the species, together with information on its ecological rarity (incidence in the samples). Two families of bivalves (Veneridae and Mytilidae) and three families of gastropods (Calyptraeidae, Muricidae and Collumbellidae) comprised ~ 30% of all species. Ecological rarity was evident with 45 families (45.0%) with only one species and 178 species (57.8%) collected in one site and 67 (21.8%) in two sites. The molluscs of Bahía de Chamela represent 12.2% of all species recorded in the Mexican Pacific. Their biogeographic affinities are mostly related to the Tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) including the oceanic islands and a few are restricted to the Tropical Mexican Pacific (TMP). Some have broader distributions to adjacent northern and southern temperate regions of the American Pacific, one to the western Atlantic, two pantropical (PAN) and two cosmopolitans (COS). The range distribution of each species was reviewed and updated, thus finding that seven species have extended their ranges of geographic distribution.

A first faunistic study on the tribe Oniticellini Kolbe, 1905 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) of Baikunthapur Tropical Forest of the Himalayan foothills, West Bengal, India
Oniticellini Kolbe, 1905 is a paucispecific tribe of the scarab beetle subfamily Scarabaeinae. The tribe is composed of 256 described species worldwide, while from India 26 species were recorded up to date. Beetles belonging to this tribe are commonly known as paracoprid dung beetles and perform some remarkable ecological functions. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of knowledge on the occurrence of these beetles in the mega diverse tropical forests of the Himalayan foothills located in the North of the West Bengal state of India.A first faunistic account of the tribe Oniticellini Kolbe, 1905 from Baikunthapur forest, located at the Himalayan foothills of the West Bengal state of India is presented. A total of 5 species of the tribe distributed over two genera Tiniocellus and Liatongus were recorded during multiple surveys for scarab fauna of the forest. All the taxa were recorded for the first time from the area, while Tiniocellus spinipes (Roth, 1851) is a new record for the West Bengal State of India. Additionally, a preliminary checklist of Indian species of the tribe is also provided.

A new southern record of the holopelagic annelid Poeobius meseres Heath, 1930 (Flabelligeridae)
The unusual holopelagic annelid Poeobius meseres Heath, 1930 (Flabelligeridae) was first collected from Monterey Bay, California, and has been subsequently recorded across the northern Pacific from Japan to the Gulf of California. Rare occurrences in the eastern tropical Pacific have extended as far as 7° S off Peru.Using molecular phylogenetic analysis of a newly collected specimen from the Salas y Gómez Ridge off Chile, we extend the known geographic range of P. meseres southward by 2040 km. This subtropical specimen showed higher genetic similarity to a specimen from the type locality (<1.5% pairwise COI distance) than to representatives from the Aleutian Islands and Japan (5-6%), establishing the first genetically confirmed occurrence of this species in the southern hemisphere. The latitudinal range of P. meseres encompasses the sole collection locality, off Ecuador, of Enigma terwielii Betrem, 1925, a pelagic annelid which has been compared to P. meseres, but is indeterminable due to an inadequate description. We therefore suggest that the earlier sole record of E. terwielii may have been an occurrence of what is known now as P. meseres.
["polychaete"]

Communities of ground beetles (Carabidae, Coleoptera) in broad-leaved forests of protected and urban areas of the Kaluga Oblast (European Russia)
This sampling-event dataset provides primary data about species diversity, population, and seasonal activity of ground beetles (Carabidae, Coleoptera). The study was carried out in broad-leaved forests of protected ("Kaluzhskiye Zaseki" Nature Reserve and Ugra National Park) and urban areas (Kaluga city) of the Kaluga Oblast. Carabids were collected from April to October during 1995-1998 by pitfall traps. In total, 108,000 adult individuals of the Carabidae family were sampled; 105 species from 38 genera were counted.This dataset is the first sampling-event dataset about the Carabidae family for the European part of Russia. It provides biodiversity data for new territory (Kaluga oblast) and contributes to filling gaps in the global biodiversity distribution of the Carabidae family. Part of the data was collected from unique old-growth broad-leaved forests.
["Biodiversity", "Ground beetle", "Geography", "Ecology", "Pitfall trap", "Distribution (mathematics)", "National park", "Forestry", "Habitat", "Biology", "Archaeology"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Updated distribution of the invasive Megachile sculpturalis (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) in Italy and its first record on a Mediterranean island
Megachile sculpturalis (Smith, 1853) (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) is an invasive solitary bee that is rapidly spreading all over Europe. The present study aims to update the distribution of this species in Italy. The research led to the collection of 177 records, obtained through bibliographic research and data-mining from websites, blogs and social networks. We here present the first record of M. sculpturalis on a Mediterranean island and discuss its possible effect on the native ecosystem. Given the particular discovery of M. sculpturalis on Elba Island (Tuscany), we suggest possible monitoring, containment and possible eradication measures of the species.
["biodiversity loss"]

New records of six moth (Lepidoptera: Erebidae, Lasiocampidae) species in south African countries, with comments on their distribution
Southern Africa hosts a high diversity of ecosystems and habitats with tremendous diversity of Lepidoptera. Although it belongs among most studied parts of the Afrotropics, the knowledge on diversity and distribution of south African moth fauna remains insufficient. To partly fill this gap, we surveyed macromoths by automatic light traps in seven localities in three relatively less sampled south African countries.We reported 14 species and one genus (Remigioides) of moths which have not yet been recorded in Namibia, Botswana, or Zimbabwe. Although none of these records broadened the known distribution of individual species to a new biogeographic region, they still fill important gaps in their distribution. Especially, the known distributional ranges of two species have been substantially extended, although still within the same biogeographic regions: ca. 800 km southwards for Remigioides remigina (Mabille, 1884), and ca. 600 km westwards for Haplopacha cinerea Aurivillius, 1905.

A new species of the genus Neotropiella Handschin, 1942 (Collembola: Neanuridae) from Peru
Neotropiella is a genus of springtails which can be of medium size (2 mm) or relatively long (5 mm). These springtails live in leaf litter, under the bark of dead trees, or in decomposing wood, mainly in the Neotropical Region, and are often collected by litter samples on Berlese funnels or by pitfall traps. Most species have been described based on relatively few specimens, and there is insufficient information of complete chaetotaxy study for several species.A new species within Neotropiella was discovered from recent pitfall trap collections in Peru.  Neotropiella peruana sp. n., was taxonomically treated  and studied under both phase contrast and scanning electron microscopy.  It is similar to N. insularis from Brazil, but smaller with only 4 mandibular teeth (versus 5) and with well-developed unguis lateral teeth. Intraspecific variation of the new species is provided. We also present the first DNA barcodes for the genus.

The bastard grunt Pomadasys incisus (Bowdich, 1825) (Teleostei: Haemulidae) in Cyprus (eastern Mediterranean Sea) - a late arrival or just a neglected species?
Pomadasys incisus is a thermophilous coastal subtropical fish species belonging to the family Haemulidae. Originally described from Gambia, this species is widely distributed in the Eastern Atlantic from Galicia to South Africa. It has also been recorded in the Mediterranean Sea since 1840, presumably expanding its distribution in the next decades, although the species could have been already present in the basin, but simply overlooked until the mid XIX century. In this study, we first record P. incisus from Cyprus (eastern Mediterranean Sea), based on two opportunistic observations obtained through a citizen-science project and review the distribution of this species in the Mediterranean Sea. The present sighting raises the question on whether this species is a late arrival in the country or its presence has just been neglected until now. Based on present data, the most likely hypothesis is the latter one, with P. incisus occurring in low densities and being overlooked due to the absence of field studies. Whatever is true, some intrinsic or extrinsic factors may have played a role in limiting its spread or wide establishment in the above-mentioned country.
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

A new species of Leiochrides Augener, 1914 (Annelida: Capitellidae) from the Beibu Gulf, South China Sea
Polychaetes in the family Capitellidae are a group of organisms that are poorly studied in Chinese waters. Among the known capitellid genera in China, Leiochrides Augener, 1914 is an unusual genus in marine surveys.In this study, Leiochrides specimen was obtained during a survey conducted in the Beibu Gulf, northern South China Sea, and described herein as a new species Leiochrides guangxiensis sp. nov. The new species differs from its congeners by having uniramous chaetiger 1, chaetigers 11–12 with notopodial capillaries and neuropodial hooks, abdominal hooks with seven teeth above main fang in three rows, pygidium with 4 anal cirri, and branchial fascicles with up to 17 filaments. The taxonomic status of the monospecific genus Pseudoleiocapitella Harmelin, 1964 and Leiochrides norvegicus Fauchald, 1972 is discussed.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Carabid beetles of the environs of Lake Elton: fauna, population dynamics, demography
The present paper includes the results of a year-round pitfall trapping survey of ground beetles in the region of Lake Elton, Volgograd Area, Russia. The main objectives of the project lie in studying the local fauna of Carabidae in the Lake Elton region, as well as their demographic structure and dispersal potential of the local populations of particular carabid species. A total of ten model habitats: six zonal (characteristic of that particular biogeographic area), and four azonal (present in a variety of biogeographical areas) were studied. In each model habitat, ten pitfall traps were set from 10 May 2006 until 10 May 2007 and were checked at 10-day intervals except for the period with negative temperatures (from November 1st, 2006 until March 31st, 2007). During the period of observation, 51,314 specimens of Carabidae belonging to 149 species were trapped. The resulting sampling-event dataset includes 24,291 plot-based observations (= sampling events), some of them containing zero records of particular species in a certain habitat and time.This is the first sampling-event dataset of a year-round pitfall trapping survey (from May 2006 until May 2007) of ground-beetle communities and the demographic structure of local populations of particular species in the Lake Elton region, Volgograd Area, Russia.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Theosbaena loko sp. n. a new stygobiotic microshrimp (Thermosbaenacea: Halosbaenidae) from southern Thailand
Thermosbaenaceans (Thermosbaenacea: Halosbaenidae) are crustaceans, widespread, and occur in various habitats, including oligohaline or anchialine caves, freshwater, thermal springs, or cold waters. Currently, four families, seven genera, and 45 species are recognized worldwide. During the observation in an isolated limestone of Tham Loko (Loko Cave), Khao Chiason District, Phatthalung Province, the Theosbaena loko n. sp. were found. Theosbaena is the only genus reported in the oriental region. There are only two known species, namely Theosbaena cambodjiana Cals & Boutin 1985 from Kampot province, southern Cambodia, and T. kiatwongchai Rogers & Sanoamuang 2016 discovered in a cave of Takhli district, Nakhon Sawan province, central Thailand. Theosbaena loko n. sp. is the third species recorded in the oriental region.A new species Theosbaena loko n. sp. is described from a limestone cave in Phatthalung province, southern Thailand. The new species differs from its congener by having a telson, 1.8 longer than its breadth, maxilla 1 palp distal segment 4 times longer than the proximal palpomere, and the maxillopodal exopod twice as long as its basal width. This micro shrimp is the third described species of the genus known from Thailand and the Oriental region. A key to the species is given and suggestions for the conservation status of the new species are discussed.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Contributions to the knowledge of water bugs in Mindoro Island, Philippines, with a species checklist of Nepomorpha and Gerromorpha (Insecta, Hemiptera, Heteroptera)
This survey aims to provide an updated species checklist of aquatic and semi-aquatic bugs in the intra-Philippine biogeographic region of Mindoro. An assessment survey of water bugs (Hemiptera, Heteroptera) was conducted by mostly manual collection in selected areas of Oriental Mindoro from 2017 to 2018, in which some of the collecting activities were contributed by graduate students of Ateneo de Manila University.Twenty-nine aquatic and semi-aquatic heteropteran species were documented and some are known island-endemic species or subspecies, including Enithares martini mindoroensis Nieser & Zettel, 1999, Hydrotrephes stereoides mindoroensis Zettel, 2003, Aphelocheirus freitagi Zettel & Pangantihon, 2010, Rhagovelia mindoroensis Zettel, 1994, Rhagovelia raddai Zettel, 1994, Rhagovelia potamophila Zettel, 1996, and Strongylovelia mindoroensis Lansbury & Zettel, 1997, which were found in new areas in the region. In addition, there are also new records for the island that have already been documented before in other parts of the Philippines, such as the Philippine-endemic Ochterus magnus Gapud & San Valentin, 1977 and Hebrus philippinus Zettel, 2006, and the widely distributed backswimmers Anisops nigrolineatus Lundblad, 1933 and Anisops rhomboides Nieser & Chen, 1999. Several undescribed specimens and potentially new species are also discussed in this paper. Further surveys in the other parts of Mindoro, and in the other regions of the Philippines, are encouraged to produce a comprehensive baseline data of heteropteran species richness in the country.
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new freshwater snail (Gastropoda, Pomatiopsidae) endemic to Fuxian Lake (Yunnan, China) identified, based on morphological and DNA evidence
Lacunopsis Deshayes, 1876 is restricted to South Asia and shows a remarkable regional distribution. Fifteen species have been reported from the lower Mekong River area of Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam. Two species Lacunopsis auris Y.-Y. Liu, Y.-X. Wang & W.-Z. Zhang, 1980 and L. yunnanensis Y.-Y. Liu, Y.-X. Wang & W.-Z. Zhang, 1980 occurred in the Yunnan Province of China. The most recent treatments of Lacunopsis date back to the 1970's and the 1980's, therefore detailed information on anatomy and DNA analysis is lacking.A new species of freshwater snail (Gastropoda, Pomatiopsidae), L. yuxiensis sp. nov., is described, based on samples collected from Fuxian Lake (Yunnan, China). The new species is characterized by a solid shell and dark red and yellow spiral ribs on the whorls, reminiscent of marine gastropods of the family Trochidae. In addition to a description of the shell morphology and radula, molecular data are presented for the first time. This compilation of faunal and taxonomic data provides relevant information for use in conservation efforts. Additional molecular data may prove helpful for both reﬁning current knowledge on the morphological variability within this species and verifying the degree of cryptic diversity of this genus.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

Genetic assessment of the variation and distribution of the species of Salinator (Panpulmonata: Amphibolidae) in south-eastern Australia
Amphibolidae is one of the most abundant families of gastropods in estuarine environments of south-eastern Australia. However, the range limits of the species of Salinator, one of the family’s two genera in the region, remain unclear partly due to uncertainty of identifications based solely on shell morphology. Insufficient data have been collected to address questions regarding the genetic variability of any of the species of Salinator. Here, DNA sequences from a segment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and 28S ribosomal RNA genes were collected to investigate the distribution and variation of the three Salinator species in the region, these being S. fragilis, S. rhamphidia and S. tecta. The results demonstrate a large range extension in S. rhamphidia and suggest that S. tecta may have limited distribution in Tasmania. In contrast to previously-studied estuarine Mollusca in the south-eastern coasts of the mainland and Tasmania, S. rhamphidia has regional differentiation. There is evidence of genetic disequilibrium within S. fragilis, suggesting that it may presently comprise contributions from two distinct sets of populations.
["28S ribosomal RNA"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

Gryon ancinla Kozlov & Lê (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae): host association, expanded distribution, redescription and a new synonymy
["Scelionidae", "Parasitoid", "Biology", "Hymenoptera", "Zoology", "Heteroptera", "Genus", "Host (biology)", "Ecology"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Parasitism of Placobdelloides siamensis (Oka, 1917) (Glossiphoniidae: Hirudinea) in Snail-eating Turtles, Malayemys spp., and the effects of host and aquatic environmental factors
The Siam Shield Leech, Placobdelloides siamensis, is a common leech found on Malayemys turtles in Thailand. Sixty Snail-eating Turtles (29 Malayemys macrocephala and 31 M. subtrijuga) were caught over twelve months (February 2017 – January 2018) to determine host characteristics (body size, weight and sex), parasitism (prevalence, intensity and density) and seasonal aquatic environmental factors (conductivity, nitrate nitrogen, dissolved oxygen, pH, salinity and total dissolved solids). There was no significant difference of infection rate between species and sex in both turtle species. Leech prevalence indicated that all turtle individuals were infected throughout year, while the infection rate was significantly higher in larger and heavier turtles mainly on the carapace with an average number of leech approximately 474.80 ± 331.38 individuals for individual host infection and 76.53 ± 20.27 individuals for infection per 100 g body weight. The high level of leech parasitism also caused a rot wound and shell hole which caused the host to die. Aquatic environmental factors did not influence the infection of leeches in both turtle species. Therefore, the factors that influenced the infection rate of P. siamensis were based on only host body size and weight without effect from season. In addition, this study also showed two new hosts, including Cyclemys oldhamii and Heosemys grandis and the widespread distribution from northern, north-eastern, western, central and southern Thailand were reported.
["Rhynchobdellida"]
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Bird parasitology and diseases", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Bryophytes Occurrences Dataset Based On SYKO Herbarium Moss Collection
The dataset with 49,726 bryophytes occurrences (49261 moss occurrences and 465 liverworts occurrences) located predominantly on the territory European North-East Russia was described in this data paper. The dataset was based on the digitized moss labels from the Institute of Biology of Komi Scientific Сenter of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences herbarium (SYKO). The information from the labels was recognized, cleaned and brought into compliance with the Darwin Core. More than 99.9% of occurrences were georeferenced with a precision of at least 3 km. For each occurrence the original label image URL was given. The dataset contains occurrences of 539 moss and liverworts taxa (species and lower ranks) belonging to 190 genera and 75 families.Information about 49,726 bryophytes occurrences was published in GBIF. The dataset was based on label data of 94% of SYKO herbarium moss collection specimens. Most of the occurrences were described with the following fields: occurrenceID, institutionID, collectionCode, catalogNumber, basisOfRecord, scientificName, taxonRank, kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, recordedBy, identifiedBy, associatedMedia, day, month, year, country, countryCode, decimalLatitude, decimalLongitude, geodeticDatum, coordinateUncertaintyInMeters, georeferencedBy.
["Bryophyta"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Description of Anoplophora fanjingensis sp. n. (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae) from southwest China
Anoplophora Hope, 1839 is a genus including more than 40 species occurring in Asia. Most species of this genus have beautiful colours on the elytra and are of great interest to insect collectors. Due to their developing in and consuming wood in the larval stage, species in this genus could be economically important, such as A. glabripennis, an introduced species to North America. We described Anoplophora fanjingensis sp. n., based on specimens from Mount Fanjing (also Fanjingshan), Jiankou County, Guizhou, China. The new species is characterised by its elytra with metallic iridescent sheen and the non-annulated antennae. Habitus of two similar species, Anoplophora chiangi and Anoplophora leechi, are also presented.
["Longhorn beetle"]

Arachnids (Araneae, Opiliones) from grass stand and forest litter in the Urals, Russia
Since the late 1980s, long-term monitoring of various components of natural ecosystems under conditions of industrial pollution has been carried out in the Central Urals. In the mid-2000s, similar programmes were started in the Southern Urals. As a part of these monitoring programmes, the data on invertebrates in different types of biotopes, collected with different methods and in a different time intervals, continue to be gathered. Amongst the most well-studied groups of invertebrates are spiders and harvestmen whose communities are a convenient indicator of the environment. The data collected through these monitoring programmes can also be used to study natural local biodiversity.The dataset, presented here, includes information from a long-term monitoring programme for Araneae and Opiliones that inhabit grass stands of secondary dry meadows and litter of spruce-fir, aspen-birch and pine-birch forests in the Central and Southern Urals. The dataset (available from the GBIF network at describes the assemblage structure of spiders and harvestmen (list of species and their abundance), age-sex composition and seasonal and inter-annual dynamics for two large areas in the southern taiga zone of the Ural Mountains. The dataset includes 1,351 samples, which correspond to 5,462 occurrences identified during 2004–2009, 2013 and 2018. In total, we collected 10,433 specimens, representing 178 species (36% of arachnofauna of the Urals), 115 genera (54%) and 23 families (100%). Most of the data (4,939 of 5,462 occurrences, 90%) were collected in the western macro-slope of the Ural Mountains (European part of Russia), the rest in the eastern macro-slope (Asian part). All represented data were sampled in industrially undisturbed areas and are used as a local reference for ecotoxicological monitoring. The dataset provides new useful information for recording the state of biodiversity for the Central and Southern Urals and contributes to the study of biodiversity conservation.
["Occurrence"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Sclerozoan and fouling sabellid worms (Annelida: Sabellidae) from Mexico with the establishment of two new species
The sabellid genera Anamobaea Krøyer, 1856 and Notaulax Tauber, 1879 are two of the most attractive polychaete worms in coral reefs. Anamobaea is represented by two Caribbean species and Notaulax with 24 species from around the world, six of them previously known to tropical America. During examination of fouling biota and sclerozoans from Mexico, Anamobaea orstedii Krøyer, 1856 was found in coral reefs from the southern Gulf of Mexico and three species of Notaulax were identified to the Mexican Pacific, two of them being new species to science.Anamobaea orstedii Krøyer, 1856 is first reported as sclerozoan of dead coral from the southern Gulf of Mexico. An amendment to the generic diagnosis of Anamobaea is provided, based on the presence of a higher number of skeletal cells than previously recorded; height, shape and exposition of the anterior peristomial ring; the non-fusion of dorsal collar margins to faecal groove; shape of collar chaetiger and abdominal chaetae and distribution and shape of radiolar ocelli. Notaulax californica (Treadwell, 1906) is reported as fouling in buoys and docks from the Gulf of California. Two new species of Notaulax are described: the former was found in hull and dock fouling from La Paz (Gulf of California) and the second one as sclerozoan of oysters from a dock fouling in Acapulco (south Mexican Pacific). In addition, reproductive features are described for the first time for A. orstedii which is a simultaneous hermaphrodite with female and males gametes found within the same segments of abdominal region. Oocytes develop synchronously and sperm morphology (spherical nucleus and rounded acrosome, four spherical mitochondria and a long free flagellum) suggest an adaptation to broadcast spawning and external fertilisation. Species of Notaulax here examined were gonochoric, with gametes distributed in abdominal segments.
["Bioclaustration"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ocean Acidification Effects and Responses"]

A review of Diplommatina species in eastern Thailand with the descriptions of five new species
Microsnails in the genus Diplommatina Benson, 1849 from eastern Thailand are revised, based on the collection of the Zoological Research Collection, Burapha University, Chonburi Province, Thailand and on recently-collected materials.Five new species, Diplommatina burapha sp. n., D. chadathongae sp. n., D. chantaburiensis sp. n., D. fusiformis sp. n. and D. khwantongae sp. n., are described as new to science. The geographic distribution of these eastern species is presented.
["Diplommatina"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Marine algal flora of Graciosa Island, Azores
The macroalgal flora of Graciosa (central group of Azores archipelago) is poorly known, with only 116 species recorded so far (authors personal data). The published information reflects occasional collections from sporadic field visits to the Island. To overcome this, a thorough investigation under the Expedition “GRACIOSA/2004”, the Campaigns “PADEL/2006”, “MACROBIOLMOL/2014” and “PIMA-BALA/2017” involving sample collecting and presence data recording, was undertaken over an area of 19 km2 encompassing littoral and sublittoral levels down to about 40 m around the Island. This paper lists the taxonomic records and provides information on species ecology and occurrence around the Island improving the knowledge of the Azorean macroalgal flora at both local and regional scales.A total of 1692 specimens belonging to 250 taxa of macroalgae (and including 55 taxa identified only at the genus level) are registered, comprising 166 Rhodophyta, 36 Chlorophyta and 48 Ochrophyta (Phaeophyceae). From these, 195 are identified to the species level (126 Rhodophyta, 31 Chlorophyta and 38 Ochrophyta) and comprise 156 native, 20 of uncertain origin and 14 introductions to the Island. Predaea feldmannii subsp. azorica Gabriel is an Azorean endemic, whereas Codium elisabethiae O.C. Schmidt, Botryocladia macaronesica Afonso-Carrillo, Sobrino, Tittley & Neto, Phyllophora gelidioides P.Crouan & H.Crouan ex Karsakoff and Laurencia viridis Gil-Rodríguez & Haroun represent Macaronesian endemics. Seventy-nine species are newly recorded to the algal flora of the Island.
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coastal and Marine Management"]

Marine algal (seaweed) flora of Terceira Island, Azores
As for many other Azorean Islands, the macroalgal flora of Terceira (belonging to the central group of the archipelago) is poorly known, the published information reflecting occasional collections of sporadic visitors to the island. In order to overcome this and contribute to improve the knowledge of Azorean macroalgal flora at both local and regional scales, a thorough investigation was conducted. Both collections and presence data recordings were undertaken at the littoral and sublittoral levels down to approximately 40 m around the island, covering a total area of approximately 49 km2. This paper lists the taxonomic records and provides information on each species’ ecology and occurrence on the Island’s littoral.A total of 418 specimens (including taxa identified only to genus level) belonging to 147 taxa of macroalgae, comprising 95 Rhodophyta, 33 Chlorophyta and 19 Ochrophyta (Phaeophyceae) are registered. Of these, 113 were identified to species level (73 Rhodophyta, 24 Chlorophyta and 16 Ochrophyta), encompassing 35 new records for the Island (27 Rhodophyta, 6 Chlorophyta and 2 Ochrophyta). Most species are native, including the Macaronesian endemisms Codium elisabethiae O.C.Schmidt, Millerella tinerfensis (Seoane-Camba) S.M.Boo & J.M.Rico and Phyllophora gelidioides P.Crouan & H.Crouan ex Karsakoff. Eight species are introduced and 15 have uncertain origin.

Marine algal flora of Formigas Islets, Azores
The oldest reference to marine life in Formigas Islets (oriental group of the Azores archipelago) goes back to the 16th century. Nevertheless, their macroalgal flora is poorly known, the published information mainly resulting from occasional collections of sporadic visitors. To overcome this and contribute to the knowledge of Azorean macroalgal flora at both local and regional scales, a thorough investigation was conducted in 1990 and 1991 under two expeditions promoted by the Marine Biology Research Group of the Department of Biology, University of the Azores. Collections and presence data recordings were undertaken at the littoral and sublittoral levels down to approximately 40 m, in an area of approximately 0.04 km2. This paper lists the taxonomic records and provides information regarding each species’ ecology and occurrence on the Islets’ littoral.A total of 320 specimens are registered (including taxa identified only at generic level) belonging to 90 taxa of macroalgae, from which 70 were diagnosed at species level. The confirmed species comprise 39 Rhodophyta, 12 Chlorophyta and 19 Ochrophyta (Phaeophyceae), distributed in 22 orders (13 Rhodophyta, 3 Chlorophyta and 6 Ochrophyta) and 37 families (24 Rhodophyta, 6 Chlorophyta and 7 Ochrophyta). Sixty-one species represent new records for the Islets, from which Botryocladia macaronesica Afonso-Carrillo, Sobrino, Tittley & Neto and Laurencia viridis Gil-Rodriguez & Haroun are Macaronesian endemisms. Most species are native to the Azores, but six have an uncertain origin and four are introduced (the Rhodophyta Asparagopsis armata Harvey; Laurencia dendroidea J.Agardh; Neoizziella divaricata (C.K.Tseng) S.-M.Lin, S.-Y.Yang & Huisman and the Ochrophyta Hydroclathrus tilesii (Endlicher) Santiañez & M.J.Wynne).
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

Marine algal flora of Pico Island, Azores
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

Anteon hubeni a new species from Ecuador (Hymenoptera: Dryinidae)
["Anteoninae"]

Hypomyces pseudolactifluorum sp. nov. (Hypocreales: Hypocreaceae) on Russula sp. from Yunnan, PR China
["Mycoparasite"]

Standardised spider (Arachnida, Araneae) inventory of Kilpisjärvi, Finland

Revision of Eudorylas Aczél, 1940 (Diptera, Pipunculidae) in the Middle East, with the description of four new species
["big-headed flies"]

New records and geographic distribution of the sympatric zones of unisexual and bisexual rock lizards of the genus Darevskia in Armenia and adjacent territories
["Reptilia"]
["Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Breaking the silence: how shedding light on the bone-skipper fly Thyreophora cynophila (Diptera: Piophilidae) demonstrated it still has a large distribution area in the Pyrenees mountains, France
["Lazarus species"]
["Insect Utilization and Effects", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Plant and animal studies"]

Tubicolous polychaete worms (Annelida) from Bahía de Chamela Islands Sanctuary, Mexico, with the description of a new bamboo worm

Coelosynapha, a new genus of the subfamily Gnoristinae (Diptera: Mycetophilidae) with a circumpolar, Holarctic distribution
["Coelosynapha"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

One new species of the genus Sinopoda from Hubei Province, with description of the male of Sinopoda angulata (Araneae, Sparassidae)
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Arthropoda; Crustacea; Decapoda of deep-sea volcanic habitats of the Galapagos Marine Reserve, Tropical Eastern Pacific

Additions to the “Martian Flora”: new botanical records from the Mars Desert Research Station, Utah
The Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) is a Mars-simulation campus set in a Martian planetary analogue in southern Utah. Despite a long history of astrobiology research, collections-based taxonomic inventories of the macro-level biodiversity around the station are relatively new. This study serves to add to the initial vascular plant list published for the station in 2016, where 39 species were recorded for MDRS. Here we report 40 new species, two new taxa recorded only to genus and two species re-identified from our 2016 fieldwork, bringing the total number of taxa in the "Martian" flora to 79 species and two taxa recorded to genus.
["Floristics"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Comparative analysis of morphological and molecular approaches integrated into the study of the dinoflagellate biodiversity within the recently deposited Black Sea sediments – benefits and drawbacks
One of the assets, assigned to the phytoplankton resting stages, is that of serving as the “memory” of the aquatic ecosystems and preserved biodiversity in the course of time. However, an accurate cyst identification proves to be a more difficult and extremely challenging process, even today. In order to gain a better taxonomic coverage of cyst assemblages in the Black Sea, an integrated approach of the classical morphological identification with metabarcoding methods (MySeq sequencing of V7-V9 regions of the 18S rDNA) was applied on thirteen surface sediment samples collected from different sites. A total number of 112 dinoflagellate taxa was detected at the species level and ascribed to 51 genera. In general, it is the molecular analysis that yields a higher number of taxa as compared to those obtained through the morphological taxonomy (66 taxa based on the DNA sequences versus 56 morphologically-identified taxa). Besides, it should be pointed out that the integrated dataset includes 14 potentially toxic dinoflagellate species. Discerned, subsequently, was a good dataset consistency for ten species, followed by some discrepancies as to a number of taxa, identified with one of the methods only, due to specific methodological biases. On the whole, it could be concluded that the combination of morphological and molecular methods is likely to increase the potential for a more reliable taxonomic assessment of phytoplankton diversity in marine sediments which, in turn, proves conclusively the utmost importance of the integrated approach.
["Black Sea"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Surveys in northern Utah for egg parasitoids of Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) detect Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae)
The highly polyphagous and invasive brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), has become a significant insect pest in North America since its detection in 1996. It was first documented in northern Utah in 2012 and reports of urban nuisance problems and plant damage have since increased. Biological control is the preferred solution to managing H. halys in North America and other invaded regions due to its alignment with integrated pest management and sustainable practices. Native and non-native biological control agents, namely parasitoid wasps, have been assessed for efficacy. Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) is an effective egg parasitoid of H. halys in its native range of southeast Asia and has recently been documented parasitising H. halys eggs in North America and Europe. Field surveys for native and exotic egg parasitoids using wild (in situ) and lab-reared H. halys egg masses were conducted in suburban and agricultural sites in northern Utah from June to September 2017–2019. Seven native wasp species in the families Eupelmidae and Scelionidae were discovered guarding H. halys eggs and adult wasps from five of these species completed emergence. Native species had low mean rates of adult emergence from wild (0.5–3.7%) and lab-reared (0–0.4%) egg masses. In 2019, an adventive population of T. japonicus was discovered for the first time in Utah, emerging from 21 of the 106 wild H. halys egg masses found that year, and none from lab-reared eggs. All T. japonicus emerged from egg masses collected on Catalpa speciosa (Warder). Our results support other studies that have observed biological control of H. halys from T. japonicus and improved parasitoid wasp detection with wild as compared to lab-reared H. halys egg masses.
["parasitoid wasp"]

Finding the forgotten gems: revisiting the butterflies of Matheran after 125 years with introduction to novel colour barcode for depicting seasons and activity of the Indian butterflies
We present here an updated checklist for the butterflies of Matheran, Maharashtra, India, an eco-sensitive zone, with identification remarks for locally rare or very rare butterflies. This is the first dedicated checklist for butterflies of Matheran after 125 years. A total of 140 species of butterflies were recorded belonging to six families. Amongst them, 15 species were either listed under Schedule I, II or IV of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. We also list the habitats of the species along with the data for their activity at the time of recording the observation. We propose a uniform colour code system for representing season and activity for the Indian butterflies. Examples of colour barcodes are provided with the images of rare and very rare butterflies. The lack of abundance data is a limitation of the study for which we propose long term monitoring with dedicated efforts.
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant and animal studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Arthropod diversity in two Historic Gardens in the Azores, Portugal
The aim of our study was to characterise and compare the richness and composition of endemic, native (non-endemic) and introduced arthropod assemblages of two Azorean Historic Gardens with contrasting plant species composition. We hypothesised that Faial Botanic Garden would hold higher arthropod diversity and abundance of native and endemic arthropod species due to its larger native plant community. Species were collected using several arthropod standardised techniques between April 2017 and June 2018. We used the alpha diversity metrics (Hill series) and the partitioning of total beta diversity (βtotal) into its replacement (βrepl) and richness (βrich) components, to analyse the adult and total arthropod community. The orders Araneae, Coleoptera and Hemiptera were also studied separately. Our results show that the number of exotic arthropod species exceeds the number of native and/or the endemic species in both gardens, but the arthropod community of Faial Botanic Garden exhibited a higher density of endemic and native species. Despite some minor exceptions, the geographic origins of plant communities largely influenced the arthropod species sampled in each garden. This study improves our knowledge about urban arthropod diversity in the Azores and shows how well-designed urban garden management and planning contribute to the conservation of native and endemic Azorean species.
["Arthropods"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Citizen-science detects the arrival and establishment of Branchiomma luctuosum (Grube, 1870) (Annelida: Polychaeta: Sabellidae) in Albania
The invasive fan worm Branchiomma luctuosum (Grube, 1870), originally described from the Red Sea, is first reported here from the Albanian coasts, based on records held in Vlora Bay, a locality near to Valona harbour and Narta Lagoon. Possible pathways of arrival in the area are uncertain. However, species’ larval ecology and life-history traits suggest a secondary spreading through shipping. Social media data mining allowed the confirmation of its establishment in the area, with specimens showing high densities in shallow waters on artificial hard substrates and to backdate its arrival in the area since at least November 2016. Citizen science continues supporting marine biology in the Mediterranean area, especially in countries where proper field studies and research projects are still limited.
["Mediterranean Sea"]

New records of amphipod crustaceans along the Israeli Mediterranean coast, including a rare Mediterranean endemic species, Maera schieckei Karaman & Ruffo, 1971
["Crustacean amphipods"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

Hoverfly (Diptera: Syrphidae) assemblage of an oak–hornbeam in the Merlino Wood Natural Reserve and implications for its conservation
Merlino Wood is a typical oak–hornbeam forest in the Po Plain hydrographic region. It is one of the few remaining lowland forests in Northern Italy and is a Regional Natural Reserve and a Site of Community Interest (code IT1160010). This is the first survey on hoverflies in the study area and they act as bioindicators to assess habitat conservation. Sampling was performed with three Malaise traps and an entomological net. A total of 61 species of Syrphidae were recorded between March and October 2019. Three of the species observed are considered to be under threat in Europe, three species have been recorded for the first time in Piedmont and Heringia latitarsis (Egger, 1865) has been recorded for the first time in Northern Italy. The Syrph the Net analysis has been used to assess habitat conservation. It shows good preservation of xylosaprophagous species, while the conservation conditions of other larval trophic categories are poor.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

First description of the male of Solenura ania (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), a giant pteromalid parasitoid of Trichoferus campestris (Faldermann), with special reference to its sexual dimorphism
["Palaearctic"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Dataset for mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) from Vaca Key, Monroe County, Florida USA
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Diversity of the longhorned beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) from Cuatro Ciénegas Basin, Coahuila, Mexico
["Cerambycid beetles"]

Frozen Zoo: a collection of permafrost samples containing viable protists and their viruses
["Permafrost"]
["Bacteriophages and microbial interactions", "Polar Research and Ecology", "Protist diversity and phylogeny"]

Variability and distribution of the golden-headed weevil Compsus auricephalus (Say) (Curculionidae: Entiminae: Eustylini)
["Broad-nosed weevils"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Stylogaster eggs on blow flies attracted to millipede defence secretions in Tanzania, with a stab at summarising their biology (Diptera: Conopidae & Calliphoridae)
The genus Stylogaster Macquart (Diptera: Conopidae) is sister to the remainder of the Conopidae. While all other Conopidae are endoparasitoids of aculeate Hymenoptera, species of Stylogaster appear to be endoparasitoids of ‘orthopteroids’, as the only confirmed rearing records are from crickets and cockroaches. Many calyptrate flies have been observed with Stylogaster eggs attached, but since no Stylogaster have been reared from any dipterans, it is still unknown if these flies are hosts, results of accidental oviposition or carry the eggs to the actual hosts. In this study, we report our findings of Stylogaster eggs on blow flies (Calliphoridae) attracted to millipede defence secretions in Tanzania. Out of seven different species collected and a total of 301 specimens, only flies of the genus Tricyclea Wulp had Stylogaster eggs attached. Out of 133 Tricyclea collected, 32 (24%) had Stylogaster eggs attached and, with one exception, all eggs were attached to the abdomen. The lifecycle of Stylogaster is summarised and discussed with a particular focus on dipteran egg-carriers.

A checklist of the marine Anthuroidea (Crustacea: Isopoda: Cymothoida) from the reefs of Peninsular Malaysia, with some new distributional data
["Checklist", "Isopoda", "Geography", "Biodiversity", "Habitat", "Ecology", "Coral reef", "Reef", "Global biodiversity", "Fishery", "Biology", "Crustacean", "Paleontology"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

New records and checklist of Chilocorini (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) from China

New records and an updated checklist of snakes from Son La Province, Vietnam
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A new extralimital sighting of Monachus monachus (Hermann, 1779) in the Aquatina di Frigole NATURA 2000 site (IT9150003) beach (Salento peninsula, Apulia Region, Italy) after two decades: strategies for conservation are needed
The Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus (Hermann, 1779) is the most endangered pinniped in the world. In addition, its presence has not been documented for about two decades in the Apulian Region and about 10 years along the Italian coastline. In this work, we aim to describe an exceptional and well-documented observation of a subadult specimen of Monachus monachus occurring during the last days of January 2020 in the Salento peninsula (Apulia Region, Italy) for the first time after two decades of local extinction in the south-western Adriatic Sea.
["Mediterranean monk seal"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

A new deep-sea species of Flabelligena from off the South Orkney Islands, the Southern Ocean
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Salix transect of Europe: records of willow-associated weevils (Coleoptera: Curculionoidea) from Greece to Arctic Norway, with insights from DNA barcoding
["Salicophagy"]

Chironomids (Insecta, Diptera, Chironomidae) from alpine lakes in the Eastern Carpathians with comments on newly-recorded species from Ukraine
["Non-biting midges"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Salix transect of Europe: patterns in the distribution of willow-feeding psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) from Greece to arctic Norway
BackgroundPsyllids are oligophagous phytophagous insects with many specialist willow (Salix spp.) feeding species in two genera (Cacopsylla and Bactericera). We examine the patterns of distribution and co-occurrence of willow-feeding species at 42 willow sites across Europe forming a transect from Greece (lat. 38.8 °N) to arctic Norway (lat. 70.6 °N). The transect and sites have been described in previous papers.New informationA total of 1245 individual psyllids were examined from 23 species of willow over the transect, representing 17 willow-feeding species (11 Cacopsylla and 6 Bactericera). Numerous species were very widely distributed, with two species, Bactericera albiventris (Foerster, 1848) and Cacopsylla pulchra (Zetterstedt, 1840), occurring from Greece to Finland. Other widespread species (Romania to Finland) were Cacopsylla ambigua (Foerster, 1848) and Bactericera curvatinervis (Foerster, 1848). The mean number of psyllid species per site was 2.4 (1.3 Cacopsylla, 1.1 Bactericera).
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant and animal studies"]

Acanthosaura aurantiacrista (Squamata: Agamidae), a new long horn lizard from northern Thailand
["rainforest"]

Rhodostrophia crypta, a new species from Middle Asia (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)

Distribution of ticks, tick-borne pathogens and the associated local environmental factors including small mammals and livestock, in two French agricultural sites: the OSCAR database
["Ticks"]
["Vector-borne infectious diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Vector-Borne Animal Diseases"]

Revision of Telothyria van der Wulp (Diptera: Tachinidae) and twenty-five new species from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica with a key to Mesoamerican species
["tropical rain forest"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Biodiversity between sand grains: Meiofauna composition across southern and western Sweden assessed by metabarcoding
The meiofauna is an important part of the marine ecosystem, but its composition and distribution patterns are relatively unexplored. Here we assessed the biodiversity and community structure of meiofauna from five locations on the Swedish western and southern coasts using a high-throughput DNA sequencing (metabarcoding) approach. The mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 (COI) mini-barcode and nuclear 18S small ribosomal subunit (18S) V1-V2 region were amplified and sequenced using Illumina MiSeq technology. Our analyses revealed a higher number of species than previously found in other areas: thirteen samples comprising 6.5 dm3 sediment revealed 708 COI and 1,639 18S metazoan OTUs. Across all sites, the majority of the metazoan biodiversity was assigned to Arthropoda, Nematoda and Platyhelminthes. Alpha and beta diversity measurements showed that community composition differed significantly amongst sites. OTUs initially assigned to Acoela, Gastrotricha and the two Platyhelminthes sub-groups Macrostomorpha and Rhabdocoela were further investigated and assigned to species using a phylogeny-based taxonomy approach. Our results demonstrate that there is great potential for discovery of new meiofauna species even in some of the most extensively studied locations.
["Illumina Mi-Seq"]

First description of the female of Clubiona milingae Barrion-Dupo, Barrion & Heong, 2013 (Araneae, Clubionidae)
["topotype"]

First record of the marbled ray, Dasyatis marmorata (Elasmobranchii: Dasyatidae), from Greece (central Aegean Sea)
["biometrics"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Quantitative data from six years (2013-2018) of light trap sampling of macromoths (Lepidoptera) in Mt. Hallasan National Park, South Korea
["National park", "Geography", "Evergreen", "Deciduous", "Boreal", "Vegetation (pathology)", "Sampling (signal processing)", "Ecology", "Elevation (ballistics)", "Temperate rainforest", "Taiga", "Forestry", "Physical geography", "Ecosystem", "Archaeology", "Biology"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Morphological variations and asymmetry"]

Diversity and composition of volant and non-volant small mammals in northern Selangor State Park and adjacent forest of Peninsular Malaysia
Volant and non-volant small mammals from three forest reserves, located inside and outside Selangor State Park, Malaysia, were trapped and documented. A total of five-line transects, each 200 m long and a total of 100 collapsible cage traps, three harp traps and ten mist nets were deployed at each study site to capture rodents and bats species. The presence of 47 species of volant and non-volant mammals was documented with the highest abundant species being Leopoldamys sabanus (n = 61). The Family Vespertilionidae was the most diverse, while Muridae was the most abundant species. Diversity indices have shown forest reserves - Gading Forest Reserve (FR) and Bukit Kutu FR – located in the State Park, have a higher species composition than the impaired adjacent forest reserve, Bukit Tarek FR extension. The taxonomic diversity and taxonomic distinctness of the three forest reserves ranged between 2.433 and 2.610, while the taxonomic distinctness values ranged between 2.638 and 2.748. Even though Gading FR recorded the highest number of species diversity, the Chao 1 diversity estimator and the rarefaction accumulation curve indicated that Bukit Kutu comprised more species. Comparisons between other state parks and national parks in Peninsular Malaysia indicated that Selangor State Park indeed harbours relatively more species of small mammals. Northern Selangor State Park and adjacent forest should be recognised as a conservation priority area, although there are comparatively more species harboured in other regions of the State Park. With the current information on fauna diversity, proper management should be formulated to preserve the existing ecosystems in order to ensure the continuity of fauna diversity in Malaysia.
["Gading Forest Reserve"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Natural history of the social millipede Brachycybe lecontii Wood, 1864
The millipede Brachycybe lecontii Wood, 1864 is a fungivorous social millipede known for paternal care of eggs and forming multi-generational aggregations. We investigated the life history, paternal care, chemical defence, feeding and social behaviour of B. lecontii and provided morphological and anatomical descriptions, using light and scanning electron microscopy. Based on observations of B. lecontii from 13 locations throughout its distribution, we report the following natural history aspects. The oviposition period of B. lecontii lasted from mid-April to late June and the incubation period lasted 3–4 weeks. Only males cared for the eggs and subsequent care of juveniles was not observed. In one case, the clutches of two males became combined and they were later cared for by only one of the males. The defensive compound of B. lecontii is stored in large glands occupying a third of the paranotal volume and were observed only in stadia II millipedes and older. We observed B. lecontii feeding on fungi of the order Polyporales and describe a cuticular structure on the tip of the labrum that may relate to fungivory. We found that their stellate-shaped aggregations (pinwheels) do not form in the absence of fungus and suggest the aggregation is associated with feeding. We describe and illustrate a previously undescribed comb-like structure on the tibia and tarsi of the six anterior-most leg-pairs and measure the colour and spectral reflectance of the B. lecontii exoskeleton.
["subsocial"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Bee species checklist of the San Francisco Peaks, Arizona
["Northern Arizona"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Distribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in Terceira and São Miguel Islands (Azores)
["Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)"]

Transdisciplinary Bioblitz: Rapid biotic and abiotic inventory allows studying environmental changes over 60 years at the Biological Field Station of Paimpont (Brittany, France) and opens new interdisciplinary research opportunities
["ATBI"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A new species of Cilunculus Loman, 1908 (Arthropoda: Pycnogonida: Ammotheidae) from the South-western Indian Ocean
["Seta", "Indian ocean", "Proboscis", "Biology", "Zoology", "Oceanography", "Geology", "Genus"]

Standardised spider (Arachnida, Araneae) inventory of Lammi, Finland
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Grandidierella gilesi Chilton, 1921 (Amphipoda, Aoridae), first encounter of non-indigenous amphipod in the Lam Ta Khong River, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, North-eastern Thailand
The first record of the non-indigenous, alien amphipod Grandidierella gilesi in the Lam Ta Khong River is presented. Previously, this Indo-Pacific amphipod had only been reported in the Indian Ocean, the Andaman Sea, the Gulf of Thailand, the South China Sea and Australia. In Thailand, G. gilesi was previously reported in an isolated pond in Bangkok. The present study constitutes another record of this species in inland water. The characteristics and variation of G. gilesi, observed in this study, are also discussed. All the specimens described here are preserved at the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, Prince of Songkla University, Songkla, Thailand.
["Aorid amphipod"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry"]

First records of 31 species of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) in Cameroon, with remarks on their elevational ranges
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

A new genus and new species in the tribe Uramyini (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica
["Tachinidae", "Genus", "Tribe", "Key (lock)", "Geography", "Ecology", "Biology", "Zoology", "Anthropology", "Natural enemies"]

Craspedotropis gretathunbergae, a new species of Cyclophoridae (Gastropoda: Caenogastropoda), discovered and described on a field course to Kuala Belalong rainforest, Brunei
["Land snails"]

The first Nearctic record of the genus Neocheiridium (Pseudoscorpiones: Cheiridiidae), with description of Neocheiridium gullahorum sp. n.
["Nearctic ecozone", "Genus", "Zoology", "Key (lock)", "Biology", "Geography", "Ecology"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies"]

A fortuitous find: a unique haplotype of Ooencyrtus nezarae Ishii (Encyrtidae: Encyrtinae) discovered in Florida
The adventive arrival of biological control agents circumvents the regulatory process by introducing exotic species to control invasive pests and is generally followed by post hoc risk evaluation. The bean plataspid, Megacopta cribraria (Fabricius) (Hemiptera: Plataspidae), is an invasive pest of leguminous crops in the south-eastern United States that was eventually followed by two parasitoid wasps from its range in the eastern hemisphere, Paratelenomus saccharalis (Dodd) (Scelionidae) and Ooencyrtus nezarae Ishii (Encyrtidae). In North Central Florida, sentinel egg masses, intended to capture Paratelenomus saccharalis, instead yielded Ooencyrtus nezarae, which was previously known only from Alabama (Ademokoya et al. 2018). Two generations of O. nezarae were subsequently reared in the laboratory. COI sequences from the Florida population of O. nezarae differed by 1.3% from the Alabama population and the presence of a different haplotype suggests the possibility of a separate introduction. Laboratory parasitism rates, sex ratios, morphology, molecular diagnosis and implications for agriculture are discussed.
["Megacopta cribraria"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Standardised inventories of spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) of Macaronesia II: The native forests and dry habitats of Madeira archipelago (Madeira and Porto Santo islands)

When Citizen Science highlights alien invasive species in France: the case of Indochina mantis, Hierodula patellifera (Insecta, Mantodea, Mantidae)

Shrews (Soricidae) of the lowland forests around Kisangani (DR Congo)
["pitfall"]
["Morphological variations and asymmetry", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

The northernmost record of a blood-sucking ectoparasite, Lipoptena fortisetosa Maa (Diptera: Hippoboscidae), in Estonia
["Bartonella species infections research", "Microbial infections and disease research", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

Distribution of two rare taxa of caddisflies (Trichoptera: Rhyacophilidae, Polycentropodidae) from the Republic of Kosovo
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Description of Dichelacera (Dichelacera) lamasi n. sp. (Diptera: Tabanidae), a new species from the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
["Diachlorini"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

From marine park to future genomic observatory? Enhancing marine biodiversity assessments using a biocode approach
Few tropical marine sites have been thoroughly characterised for their animal species, even though they constitute the largest proportion of multicellular diversity. A number of focused biodiversity sampling programmes have amassed immense collections to address this shortfall, but obstacles remain due to the lack of identification tools and large proportion of undescribed species globally. These problems can be partially addressed with DNA barcodes (“biocodes”), which have the potential to facilitate the estimation of species diversity and identify animals to named species via barcode databases. Here, we present the first results of what is intended to be a sustained, systematic study of the marine fauna of Singapore’s first marine park, reporting more than 365 animal species, determined based on DNA barcodes and/or morphology represented by 931 specimens (367 zooplankton, 564 macrofauna including 36 fish). Due to the lack of morphological and molecular identification tools, only a small proportion could be identified to species solely based on either morphology (24.5%) or barcodes (24.6%). Estimation of species numbers for some taxa was difficult because of the lack of sufficiently clear barcoding gaps. The specimens were imaged and added to “Biodiversity of Singapore” (http://singapore.biodiversity.online), which now contains images for > 13,000 species occurring in the country.
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

First record of the land gastropod genus Otesiopsis from South Korea (Helicarionoidea Bourguignat, 1877)
Otesiopsis Habe, 1946 is a land snail genus, which is known so far from Japan and Taiwan. Individuals of this genus were collected from Gageodo Island, South Korea. This is the first record of the genus Otesiopsis from this country. The individuals from Gageodo Island appear to be a new species because of their unique shell morphologies, while the details of their anatomy are still lacking. Further studies are encouraged to investigate the taxonomic and conservation status of the genus Otesiopsis in South Korea.

New records of megophryids (Amphibia: Anura: Megophryidae) from Son La Province, Vietnam
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

Salix transect of Europe: additional leaf beetle (Chrysomelidae) records and insights from chrysomelid DNA barcoding
Occurrence patterns of chrysomelid beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), associated with willow (Salix spp.) at 42 sites across Europe, have previously been described. The sites form a transect from Greece (lat. 38.8 °N) to arctic Norway (lat. 69.7 °N). This paper reports additional records and the results of DNA sequencing in certain genera. Examination of further collections from the transect has added 13 species in the genera Aphthona, Chrysomela, Cryptocephalus, Epitrix, Galerucella (2 spp.), Gonioctena, Phyllotreta (2 spp.), Pachybrachis (3 spp.) and Syneta. We also report the sequencing of the DNA regions cytochrome oxidase 1 (CO1) and cytochrome B (cytB) for a number of samples in the genera Plagiodera, Chrysomela, Gonioctena, Phratora, Galerucella and Crepidodera. The cytB sequences are the first available for some of these taxa. The DNA barcoding largely confirmed previous identifications but allowed a small number of re-assignments between related species. Most notably, however, it was evident that the southernmost material (Greece and Bulgaria) of specimens, previously treated as Crepidodera aurata sens. lat., belonged to a distinctive molecular cluster. Morphological re-examination revealed these to be C. nigricoxis Allard, 1878. This is an example of how morphotaxonomy and DNA barcoding can work iteratively to refine identification. Our sequences for C. nigricoxis appear to be the first available for this taxon. Finally, there is little geographic structure evident, even in widely dispersed species.
["Salicophagy"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

New and known species of the genus Campylaimus Cobb, 1920 (Nematoda: Araeolaimida: Diplopeltidae) from North European marine habitats
["Bratten"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies"]

First record of Trissolcus basalis (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) parasitizing Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in the United States
["Parasitoid wasp"]

Description of a new Pselaphodes Westwood (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae) from Vietnam

Macrofungi of Mata da Margaraça (Portugal), a relic from the Tertiary Age
Mata Nacional da Margaraça represents a rare example where the Atlantic climate influences the perpetuity of a small enclave of a previously widespread laurel forest. The higher relative humidity values (> 80%), which are almost constant all year long and the mild temperatures, rarely exceeding 30°C, even in the dry season (June to September), create an insular-like effect. The biological communities of Margaraça exhibit a transitory character. The forest is dominated by Quercus robur and Castanea sativa, yet Quercus suber, although less frequent, can also be found. The laurel species, such as Viburnum tinus, Ilex aquifolium, Laurus nobilis and the Portuguese endemic Prunus lusitanica ssp. lusitanica, relics from the ancient Portuguese Tertiary, comprise the understorey. The present work represents, to the best of our knowledge, the first regional macrofungal species list of the Mata da Margaraça published to date. The recent fires that occurred in the area have provided the opportunity to study the post-fire communities. The surveys were carried out in 2004 and later in 2018-2019. A total of 271 species were registered as belonging to Basidiomycota (≈ 80%) and Ascomycota (≈ 20%). The most represented Basidiomycota families were Russulaceae, Mycenaceae and Agaricaceae and the most represented Ascomycota families were Pyronemataceae and Pezizaceae. The new records to Portugal add up to a total of 88 species and another 116 species are new records to the province of Beira Litoral. Post-fire fungi account for 17 of the total of 271 species registered in these studies and most of these species are new to Portugal.

New Syrphidae (Diptera) of North-eastern North America
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Trees and shrubs of the tropical dry forest of the Magdalena river upper watershed (Colombia)
["Plant diversity"]
["Plant and soil sciences", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

First record of pigmentation disorder in the Fringe-lipped Bat Trachops cirrhosus (Spix, 1823) (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) from southeast Brazil
Piebaldism is a genetic pigmentation disorder, which is caused by absence of melanocytes in parts of the skin and/or hair follicles, with eyes and claws normally pigmented. The occurrence of piebaldism in natural populations is rare and the effects on fitness are still unknown. This article reports the first case of pigmentation disorders in the Fringe-lipped Bat Trachops cirrhosus (Spix, 1823) (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) caught in Barra do Triunfo, city of João Neiva, northeastern state of Espírito Santo, southeast Brazil.
["Aberrant coloration"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

First record of predation of Nyctinomops laticaudatus (É. Geoffroy, 1805) by Chrotopterus auritus (Peters, 1856) (Mammalia: Chiroptera)
The Wooly False Vampire Bat, Chrotopterus auritus (Peters, 1856) (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae), feeds on small mammals, birds, lizards, frogs and occasionally large insects and fruits. In this paper we report an additional evidence of bat predation by C. auritus. A male of this species was captured with a partially eaten Broad-eared Free-tailed Bat, Nyctinomops laticaudatus (É. Geoffroy, 1805) (Chiroptera: Molossidae). This record was obtained during a research project conducted in the Biological Reserve of Sooretama, Southeastern Brazil.
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

Raphia vinifera (Arecaceae; Calamoideae): Misidentified for far too long
["Raphia mambillensis"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

New records of Ticapimpla Gauld, 1991 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Pimplinae) from Brazil and French Guiana, with taxonomic notes
["Koinobiont"]

First record of a by-the-wind-sailor (Velella velella Linnaeus, 1758) in the Galápagos Archipelago - Ecuador
We present the first official record of the by-the-wind-sailor (Velella velella) for Ecuador. Twelve individuals were found along different beaches of San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz Islands in Galápagos Archipelago, Ecuador. These sightings may be influenced by El Niño Southern Oscillation events.
["Velella velella"]
["Marine animal studies overview", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Biota of coastal wetlands of Praia da Vitória (Terceira Island, Azores): Part 2 - Bryophytes
["bryophytes"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Twenty-two new species in the genus Hyphantrophaga Townsend (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste, with a key to the species of Mesoamerica
["caterpillar"]

Checklist of terrestrial Parasitengona mites in Fennoscandia with new species- and distribution records (Acariformes: Prostigmata)
["Study of Mite Species", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

First record of Viminella sp. (Anthozoa: Alcyonacea: Ellisellidae) in the Persian Gulf
This paper presents the first record of Viminella Gray 1870 from the Persian Gulf. This genus has a global distribution and its largest distribution is in the Indo-Pacific region. A single specimen was collected by a local fisherman from south Hengam Island (the north Persian Gulf) from 60-70 m depth. Colony morphology characteristics were examined by stereomicroscope and optical microscope. Descriptions of the colony and other taxonomic characteristics are provided. The colony is unbranched with a height of 12 cm and its basal diameter is approximately 1.63 mm. The sclerites of the coenenchyme comprise a variety of symmetrical double heads and capstan-like forms (0.05-0.11 mm). In the wall of calyces, slightly elongated double heads, capstans and spindles (about 0.08-0.19 mm) are present. Our finding extends the known geographical distribution of this genus in the Indo-Pacific region to the Persian Gulf.
["Octocorallia"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Cephalopods and Marine Biology"]

New records of bats and terrestrial small mammals from the Seli River in Sierra Leone before the construction of a hydroelectric dam
Sierra Leone is situated at the western edge of the Upper Guinean Forests in West Africa, a recognised biodiversity hotspot which is increasingly threatened by habitat degradation and loss through anthropogenic impacts. The small mammal fauna of Sierra Leone is poorly documented, although bats and rodents account for the majority of mammalian diversity. Based on morphological, genetic and echolocation data, we recorded 30 bat (Chiroptera), three shrew (Soricomorpha) and eleven rodent (Rodentia) species at the Seli River in the north of the country in 2014 and 2016, during a baseline study for the Bumbuna Phase II hydroelectric project. In 2016, 15 bat species were additionally documented at the western fringe of the Loma Mountains, a recently established national park and biodiversity offset for the Bumbuna Phase I dam. Three bat species were recorded for the first time in Sierra Leone, raising the total number for the country to 61. Further, two bat species are threatened and endemic to the Upper Guinean Forest and several taxa of small mammals are poorly known or represent undescribed species. Overall, the habitats of the project area supported a species-rich small mammal fauna including species of global conservation concern. Suitable mitigation measures and/or offsets are necessary to maintain biodiversity and ecosystems in a region that is under high human pressure.
["Bumbuna Phase II hydroelectric project"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Viral Infections and Vectors"]

Monogonot rotifers species of the island Cozumel, Quintana Roo, México
The current study adds 23 new records to the previously described monogonot rotifers of Cozumel, increasing the number of reported species to 40; these species are grouped into two orders, 11 families and 18 genera. Littoral and limnetic samples from 17 aquatic systems were examined, including wet dolines, coastal lagoons, temporary pools and artificial systems (reservoirs). Of the 36 species found, the following organisms represent new findings for Cozumel: Anuraeopsis fissa, Brachionus angularis, B. rubens, B. plicatilis sensu lato, Beuchampiella eudactylota, Euchlanis dilatata, Mytilina bisulcata, Colurella adriatica, Lepadella ovalis, L. rhomboides, Squatinella mutica, Lecane aculeata, L. climacois, L. crepida, L. cornuta, L. grandis, L. obtusa, L. pyriformis, Cephalodella forficula, Scaridium bostjani, Trichocerca pusilla, Polyarthra cf. dolichoptera, P. vulgaris, Dicranophorus epicharis and Testudinella patina. Additional information is reported for these species.
["Caribbean Sea"]

Bird diversity along riverine areas in the Bhagirathi Valley, Uttarakhand, India
Natural riverine areas mark ecotonal habitats harbouring a characteristically diverse faunal assemblage, especially birds that also use these habitats as pathways crucial for their movement. Increasingly, riverine systems are subjected to large-scale habitat alterations due to climatic fluctuations and anthropogenic changes. Therefore, it is important to understand broad-scale community patterns for conservation planning and prioritisation for these ecotone habitats. The Bhagirathi river is one of the major headwaters of the river Ganges; despite its rich and diverse fauna, little is known about the bird species that inhabit this montane region. This study presents an extensive list of 281 bird species from 59 families, their seasonal distribution and habitat associations as recorded from field surveys along the riverine areas between April 2013 and May 2018. The present communication simultaneously discusses a few noteworthy sightings for the region and provides a baseline for future research on the distribution of birds in the Western Himalaya.
["Western Himalaya"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

New data on David's myotis, Myotis davidii (Peters, 1869) (Mammalia, Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae), in Siberia and the Urals
["Myotinae"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Cryospheric studies and observations"]

A new white-spotted Megaselia Rondani (Diptera: Phoridae) from western North America
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

Standardised inventories of spiders (Arachnida, Araneae) of Macaronesia I: The native forests of the Azores (Pico and Terceira islands)

A new species of Trismegistomya Reinhard (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica
["Dexiinae"]

First record of Xestochironomus Sublette and Wirth, 1972 (Chironomidae: Chironominae) in the Mexican Nearctic with notes on their habitat
We report the first record of Xestochironomus Sublette and Wirth, 1972 for the Mexican Nearctic. Larvae of Xestochironomus are known from the Neotropics and Nearctic regions. We report them for the Sonora river, NW Mexico, 300 km SW from the closest previous record in the U.S. Habitat data are provided and discussed. Our finding provides supporting evidence for the continuous presence of the genus throughout the Americas, including desert systems.
["Nearctic ecozone", "Chironomidae", "Habitat", "Ecology", "Geography", "Genus", "Archaeology", "Biology", "Larva"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Stream benthic macroinvertebrates abundances over a 6-year monitoring period of an Italian glacier-fed stream
["macroinvertebrates"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

First record of Australatya obscura Han & Klotz, 2015 (Decapoda, Atyidae) from the Ryukyu Islands, Japan
["Australatya obscura"]

Sample checklist of Gastropoda and Bivalvia in Cham Islands, Vietnam
["Sample checklist"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

New record of Trissolcus solocis (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) parasitising Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in the United States of America
["Scelionidae", "Pentatomidae", "Hymenoptera", "Hemiptera", "Biology", "Zoology", "Ecology", "Parasitoid"]

Distribution and diversity patterns of herpetofauna in the Pantabangan-Carranglan Watershed, Nueva Ecija, Caraballo Mountain Range, Philippines
The recent extensive survey conducted in the Pantabangan-Carranglan Watershed, located in the Caraballo Mountain Range during the rainy season (October to November) resulted in the recording of fifty-nine (59) species of amphibians and reptiles (17 frogs, 14 skinks, 3 agamids, 6 gekkonid lizards, 2 varanids and 17 snakes). Out of 59 species, 42 species were Philippine endemics and 25 species are recorded only from the Luzon faunal region. Habitat analysis and mapping showed seven habitat types including lowland dipterocarp forest, grassland, lower montane forest, upper montane forest, pine forest, agricultural areas and riparian habitats.
GIS-based distribution mapping showed that the number of individuals and species are high in forest and associated riparian habitats at mid-elevation (1,000–1,250 m a.s.l.). The distribution pattern in the area is influenced by similarity in microclimatic conditions, availability of resources and niches which species can utilise. Species diversity is centred in mid- to high elevation forest and riparian habitats and in less disturbed areas. Snake diversity is adversely affected by increased disturbance, making them good indicators of the health of an area. The abundance-based Jaccard's Similarity Index showed that connected habitats and elevation gradients have higher species similarity.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

A new species of Clavicornaltica (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), discovered and described on a field course to Kuala Belalong, Brunei
["Galerucinae"]

Checklist of bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) from small diversified vegetable farms in south-western Montana
["wild bees"]

First records of the Common Eastern Bumble Bee, Bombus impatiens Cresson (Hymenoptera: Apidae, Apinae, Bombini) from the Prairies Ecozone in Canada
["non-native species"]

The highest altitudinal record of the Mountain coati Nasuella olivacea (Gray, 1865) for Ecuador
The Mountain coati Nasuella olivacea is a species of carnivorous mammal, several aspects of its ecology and natural history remain unknown. In Ecuador, its presence is reported in high Andean forest and paramo between 1,300 and 3,700 m a.s.l., being rare over 3,200 m. In this work, I present the extension of its altitudinal limit for Ecuador to 3,862 m a.s.l.; in addition, I report an event of a possible interaction between Tremarctos ornatus and N. olivacea.
["cuchucho"]

Bembidion ambiguum (Coleoptera: Carabidae) is established in California
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hemiptera Insect Studies"]

A DNA barcode-assisted annotated checklist of the spider (Arachnida, Araneae) communities associated to white oak woodlands in Spanish National Parks

An interactive key to Central European species of the Pteromalus albipennis species group and other species of the genus (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Pteromalidae), with the description of a new species
Parasitoid wasps of the genus Pteromalus play an important role in biological pest control, however, the genus includes a large number of cryptic species, which makes reliable identification difficult. The latest identification key dates back to Graham (1969) and since then many new species have been described and nomenclatural changes proposed.Here we present an interactive and fully illustrated identification key in Xper3 for 27 species of the Pteromalus albipennis species group as well as for 18 similar species. In addition to qualitative traits, a large set of body measurements is incorporated in the key. We also explored a new set of qualitative features on the propodeum and metasternum. During field work, a new species of the P. albipennis species group, P. capito Baur sp. n., could be reared from flower heads of Asteraceae, which is described here. It looks very similar to P. albipennis and P. cingulipes, however, several qualitative characters and body ratios distinguish it clearly from the most similar species.

A preliminary checklist of soil ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of Colombian Amazon
["TSBF"]

On the identity of a U.S. intercepted Conotrachelus Dejean (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) with avocado (Persea americana)
["Food security"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new record of Avrainvillea cf. erecta (Berkeley) A. Gepp & E. S. Gepp (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) from urbanized estuaries in the Hawaiian Islands
["Avrainvillea"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

Evaluation of the population dynamics of microalgae isolated from the state of Chiapas, Mexico with respect to the nutritional quality of water
As Chiapas state, México, counts on an extensive hydrography with diverse nutrimental and climatic characteristics, it therefore allows isolating and identifying microalgae with bioenergetics potential.
For this purpose, samples from 8 locations were collected, corresponding to 6 rivers, a wastewater and a springwater. The isolation of microalgae was developed for 4 weeks with 12:12 light/dark cycles. We demonstrated that the most efficient means for the isolation of microalgae of the hydrographic areas evaluated was the medium BG11 with 80.53% effectiveness. Of the microalgal consortium identified, 90% are composed of microalgae belonging to the class Chlorophycear. It was shown that another factor favouring the richness of morphotypes identified in the Santo Domingo River is associated with adequate concentrations of macroelements such as nitrates, nitrites, ammonium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium at concentrations of 0.03 mg/l, 0.0006 mg/l, 0.08 mg/l, 0.03 mg/l, 62.93 mg/l, 5.46 mg/l, 34.52 mg/l and 48.78 mg/l respectively and microelements such as copper, zinc, iron, andmanganese at concentrations less than 0.2 mg/l in all microelements. The identified morphotypes, according to literature, have lipid contents ranging from 2 to 90%; this is of biotechnological importance for the production of biodiesel.
["Hydrographic areas"]
["Algal biology and biofuel production", "Water Quality Monitoring and Analysis"]

Composition and distribution of lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera) on Colombian and Peruvian birds: New data on louse-host association in the Neotropics
The diversity of permanent ectoparasites is likely underestimated due to the difficulty of collecting samples. Lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera) are permanent ectoparasites of birds and mammals; there are approximately 5,000 species described and many more undescribed, particularly in the Neotropics. We document the louse genera collected from birds sampled in Peru (2006–2007) and Colombia (2009–2016), from 22 localities across a variety of ecosystems, ranging from lowland tropical forest and Llanos to high elevation cloud forest. We identified 35 louse genera from a total of 210 bird species belonging to 37 avian families and 13 orders. These genera belong to two suborders and three families of lice: Amblycera, families Menoponidae (present on 131 bird species) and Ricinidae (39 bird species); and Ischnocera, family Philopteridae (119 bird species). We compared our bird-louse associations with data in Price et al. (2003) and recently published Neotropical studies. The majority of bird-louse associations (51.9%) were new, with most of these coming from Passeriformes, the most diverse avian order, with the most poorly known louse fauna. Finally, we found geographical variation in louse infestation and prevalence rates. With this study, we report the first comprehensive documentation of bird-louse associations for Colombia and substantially increase the known associations documented for Peru.
["Ectoparasites"]
["Bird parasitology and diseases", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Vector-borne infectious diseases"]

The spider fauna from Uruguay River islands: understanding its role in a biological corridor
Biological corridors are connections which link habitats in a regional scale, allowing the gene flow between populations. The Uruguay River comprises riverside and insular riparian forests along subtropical to temperate zones passing through different biogeographic provinces. The aim of this study was to characterise the spider fauna from the Uruguay River islands highlighting their connection role for the spider community of riparian forest. Spiders were studied from surveys in a fluvial island of the southern course of the river with nine campaigns being carried out from September 2007 to September 2009. Three complementary collecting methods were used: G-Vac, night hand collecting and pitfall traps. A total of 58 samples were taken in each campaign. A total of 33 families, 145 species/morphospecies and 8 guilds were registered. Theridiidae and space web weavers showed the highest abundance and species richness. Web weavers were predominant in the spider community evidencing the importance of the forest vegetation heterogeneity in spider diversity. Fifteen species have been recorded for the first time for Uruguay. Additional data of previous surveys in the northern islands of the river were analysed and compared. Several species confirm the role of the Uruguay River as a biological corridor from the upper to lower course of the river. The riparian forests from the islands constitute a southernmost intromission of Paranaense biota between Chaco and Pampa regions along the river. The results obtained are an important input for the conservation of these areas. Knowing the biodiversity, as well as its dynamics and the flow of biota that exists in these environments, would allow planning the management from a regional point of view.

Effects of a recalcitrant understory fern layer in an enclosed tropical restoration experiment
Establishing mixed-species tree plantings and fencing them to protect seedlings from herbivory is a valuable strategy for reconnecting forest fragments separated by agropastoral lands. However, fencing may provide exotic plants with the escape from herbivory required to invade the understory of planted communities. Here we take advantage of such a situation to ask how the identity of planted species and the resulting canopy cover influenced invasion success by the Asian swordtail fern (Nephrolepis brownii Desv. Nephrolepidaceae) in a 13-year-old tropical restoration experiment. Through a seed addition experiment, we also evaluated the effects the ferns had on recruiting seedlings. We found that the invasion was most acute in the unplanted control plots where canopy cover was consistently scarce. Frond density correlated negatively with canopy cover, though most of the variance in the model is explained by the design of our experiment (r2m = .161, r2c = .460). Between planting treatments that differed in the dispersal mode of the planted trees, the wind-dispersed treatment had higher fern density and longer fronds than the animal-dispersed treatment. The animal-dispersed treatment had the highest recruiting species richness, which was negatively correlated with fern density (r2 = .748). The seed addition experiment confirmed that mortality rates increased where frond density was higher (F1,41 = 7.159, p = .011) and germination rates were lowered for the smaller-seeded species (F1,42 = 13.2, p = .002). To prevent recalcitrant understory layers from establishing in plantings in the future, we recommend: (1) establishing larger plantings or expanding existing ones to minimize edge effects (particularly light filtration), (2) supplementing young plantings with additional seedlings to prevent canopy gaps from forming, and (3) planting an assemblage of species that cover the full forest strata and have consistently full tree-canopies.
["Edge effects"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Fire effects on ecosystems", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

Micro-habitat and season dependent impact of the invasive Impatiens glandulifera on native vegetation
The impact of invasive species is often difficult to assess due to species × ecosystem interactions. Impatiens glandulifera heavily invaded several habitat types in Central Europe but its impact on native plant communities is rated ambiguously. One reason could be that the impact differs between habitat types or even between environmentally heterogeneous patches (micro-habitats) within one habitat type. In the present study a vegetation survey was performed within heterogeneous riverside habitats in Germany investigating the impact of I. glandulifera on native vegetation in dependence of environmental conditions. The vegetation was recorded in summer and spring because of seasonal species turnover and thus potentially different impact of the invasive plant. We found that the cover of I. glandulifera depended on environmental conditions resulting in a patchy occurrence. I. glandulifera did not have any impact on plant alpha-diversity but reduced the cover of the native vegetation, especially of the dominant species. This effect depended on micro-habitat and season. The native vegetation was most affected in bright micro-habitats, especially those with a high soil moisture. Not distinguishing between micro-habitats, plant species composition was not affected in summer but in spring. However, environmental conditions had a higher impact on the native vegetation than I. glandulifera. We conclude that within riparian habitats the threat of I. glandulifera to the native vegetation can be rated low since native species were reduced in cover but not excluded from the communities. This might be due to patchy occurrence and year-to-year changes in cover of I. glandulifera. The context-dependency in terms of micro-habitat and season requires specific risk assessments which is also an opportunity for nature conservation to develop management plans specific to the different habitats. Particular attention should be given to habitats that are bright and very wet since the effect of I. glandulifera was strongest in these habitats.
["context-dependency"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

First insights into the molecular population structure and origins of the invasive Chinese sleeper, Perccottus glenii, in Europe
The aim of our study was to provide a first overview of the population genetic structure of the invasive Chinese sleeper, Perccottus glenii, (Actinopterygii: Odontobutidae) in European water bodies. This species originates from inland waters of north-eastern China, northern North Korea and the Russian Far East. The 1172 bp long portion of the cytochrome b gene was sequenced from Chinese sleeper specimens collected from a variety of water bodies in Belarus, Bulgaria, Hungary, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia (European part) and Ukraine. Our study revealed that the invasive Chinese sleeper in Europe consists of at least three distinct haplogroups that may represent independent introduction events from different parts of its native area; i.e. three founding populations: (1) Baltic haplogroup that may originate either from fish introduced inadvertent from Russia or from some unidentified source (release by aquarists). So far, this haplogroup has been found only in the Daugava basin in Latvia. (2) East-European haplogroup that may originate from an unintentional introduction to the Volga basin in Russia and has expanded westward. So far, this group was recorded in the Volga, Upper Dnieper and Neman drainages in Belarus, Lithuania, and Russia. (3) Carpathian haplogroup, that originated from individuals unintentionally introduced with Asian cyprinid fishes to Lviv region in Ukraine and are now widely distributed in Central Europe.
["Amur sleeper"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Cryptic diversity and mtDNA phylogeography of the invasive demon shrimp, Dikerogammarus haemobaphes (Eichwald, 1841), in Europe
The regions of the Black, Caspian, and Azov seas are known for being both (i) the place of extensive crustacean radiation dated to the times of Paratethys and Sarmatian basins, and (ii) present donors of alien and invasive taxa to many areas worldwide. One amphipod morphospecies, Dikerogammarus haemobaphes, is known both as native to rivers draining to the Black and Caspian seas as well as a successful invader (nicknamed demon shrimp) in Central and Western European rivers. Based on mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and nuclear (28S) datasets and 41 sampling sites, representing both the native (19) and the invaded (22) range, we assessed cryptic diversity, phylogeography and population genetics of this taxon. First, we revealed the presence of two divergent lineages supported by all markers and all species delimitation methods. The divergence between the lineages was high (18.3% Kimura 2-parameter distance for COI) and old (ca. 5.1 Ma), suggesting the presence of two cryptic species within D. haemobaphes. Lineage A was found only in a few localities in the native range, while lineage B was widespread both in the native and in the invaded range. Although genetic divergence within lineage B was shallow, geographic distribution of 16S and COI haplotypes was highly heterogeneous, leading us to the definition of four Geo-Demographic Units (GDUs). Two GDUs were restricted to the native range: GDU-B1 was endemic for the Durugöl (aka Duruşu) Liman in Turkey, whereas GDU-B2 occurred only in the Dniester River. GDU-B3 was both present in several localities in the native range in the Black Sea drainage area and widespread in Central and Western Europe. The GDU-B4 was found exclusively in the Moskva River in Russia. Extended Bayesian Skyline Plot indicated steady growth of GDU-B3 population size since 30 ka, pointing to the rather old history of its expansion, first in the late Pleistocene in the native range and nowadays in Central and Western Europe. The analysis of haplotype distribution across the present distribution range clearly showed two invasion routes to Central and Western Europe. The first one, originating from the lower Dnieper, allowed the demon shrimp to colonize Polish rivers and the Mittellandkanal in Germany. The second one, originating from the Danube delta, allowed to colonize the water bodies in the upper Danube basin. The UK population has originated from the Central Corridor, as only a haplotype found exclusively along this route was recorded in the UK. Population genetics analysis showed that the invasion of the demon shrimp along the Central Corridor was not associated with the loss of genetic diversity, which might contribute to the success of this invader in the newly colonized areas.
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Do dense layers of invasive plants elevate the foraging intensity of small mammals in temperate deciduous forests? A case study from Pennsylvania, USA
Monospecific stands of invasive plants can dramatically restructure habitat for fauna, thereby elevating population densities or promoting foraging of consumer species who benefit in the altered habitat. For example, dense stands of invasive plants may protect small mammals from predators, which in turn could increase foraging pressure on seeds that small mammals feed upon. We used a before-after, control-impact experimental design to test whether small mammal capture rates were higher and giving-up densities (GUDs) lower beneath dense stands of Berberis thunbergii, an invasive shrub with a rapidly expanding range throughout eastern North America. Our experimental design included three plot categories: 1) plots heavily invaded by B. thunbergii, 2) control plots lacking invasive shrub cover, and 3) invaded plots where we eradicated B. thunbergii midway through the study. Although our overall small mammal capture rate was low, small mammal captures were 65% higher in B. thunbergii invaded habitat relative to control plots and eradication lowered capture rates by 77%. GUDs were also 26% higher within B. thunbergii relative to control plots and eradication decreased GUDs by 65%. Our findings suggest that small mammals perceive dense stands of B. thunbergii as relatively safe foraging habitat. Prior surveys within our study locations revealed dramatically depressed tree seedling densities under B. thunbergii, thus invasive plants may promote intensive foraging by small mammals and reduce recruitment for species with foraged seeds or seedlings.
["Berberis thunbergii"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Clonal growth strategies of Reynoutria japonica in response to light, shade, and mowing, and perspectives for management
Many of the most invasive plant species in the world can propagate clonally, suggesting clonality offers advantages that facilitate invasion. Gaining insights into the clonal growth dynamics of invasive plants should thus improve understanding of the mechanisms of their dominance, resilience and expansion. Belonging to the shortlist of the most problematic terrestrial invaders, Reynoutria japonica var. japonica Houtt. (Japanese knotweed) has colonized all five continents, likely facilitated by its impressive ability to propagate vegetatively. However, its clonal growth patterns are surprisingly understudied; we still do not know how individuals respond to key environmental conditions, including light availability and disturbance. To contribute to filling this knowledge gap, we designed a mesocosm experiment to observe the morphological variation in R. japonica growth in homogeneous or heterogeneous conditions of light stress (shade) and disturbance (mowing). Rhizome fragments were planted in the middle of large pots between two habitat patches that consisted of either one or a combination of the following three environmental conditions: full light without mowing, full light with frequent mowing, or shade without mowing. At the end of the experiment, biomass and traits related to clonal growth (spacer and rhizome lengths, number of rhizome branches, and number of ramets) were measured. After 14 months, all individuals had survived, even those frequently mowed or growing under heavy shade. We showed that R. japonica adopts a ‘phalanx’ growth form when growing in full light and a ‘guerrilla’ form when entirely shaded. The former is characteristic of a space-occupancy strategy while the latter is more associated with a foraging strategy. In heterogeneous conditions, we also showed that clones seemed to invest preferentially more in favorable habitat patches rather than in unfavorable ones (mowed or shaded), possibly exhibiting an escape strategy. These observations could improve the management of this species, specifically by illustrating how aggressive early control measures must be, by highlighting the importance of repeated mowing of entire stands, as this plant appears to compensate readily to partial mowing, and by informing on its potential responses towards the restoration of a cover of competitive native plants.
["clonal growth"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Monitoring the silver carp invasion in Africa: a case study using environmental DNA (eDNA) in dangerous watersheds
Biodiverse habitats are increasingly subject to an intensification of anthropogenic stressors that may severely diminish species richness. Invasive species pose a dominant threat to biodiversity and biosecurity, particularly in biodiversity hotspots like Kruger National Park, South Africa. The invasive silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, was introduced into the Olifants River and may experience range spread owing to favorable environmental conditions. Intensive monitoring protocols are necessary to effectively manage invasions of species like silver carp. Unfortunately, tropical and sub-tropical aquatic systems are difficult to monitor using conventional methods (e.g., netting, electrofishing and snorkeling) owing to a range of factors including the presence of dangerous megafauna. Conservation of such systems may be advanced by the adoption of novel methods, including environmental DNA (eDNA) detection. Here, we explore the utility of environmental DNA (eDNA) to conduct safe, reliable and repeatable surveys in dangerous watersheds using silver carp as a case study. We conducted eDNA surveys at 12 sites in two neighbouring watersheds, and determined that the species has expanded its range within the Olifants River and to the south in the Sabie River. Expansion in the former is consistent with the presence of suitable spawning conditions. We discuss the implications of this survey for biodiversity monitoring in similar aquatic systems in the tropics and advocate an integrative approach to biomonitoring in these ecosystems.
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies"]

Emerging invasion threat of the liana Celastrus orbiculatus (Celastraceae) in Europe
The woody vine Celastrus orbiculatus (Celastraceae), Oriental bittersweet, is an alien species that recently has been found to be spreading in Europe. Many aspects of its biology and ecology are still obscure. This study evaluates the distribution and habitats, as well as size and age of stands of C. orbiculatus in Lithuania. We investigated whether meteorological factors affect radial stem increments and determined seedling recruitment in order to judge the plant’s potential for further spread in Europe. We studied the flower gender of C. orbiculatus in four populations in Lithuania and found that all sampled individuals were monoecious, although with dominant either functionally female or male flowers. Dendrochronological methods enabled us to reveal the approximate time of the first establishment of populations of C. orbiculatus in Lithuania. The youngest recorded individual with fruits was determined to be 10 years old. Analysis of radial increments revealed no reliable correlations with meteorological conditions. Therefore, we conclude that climatic conditions in the region are favourable for the growth, reproduction, and invasion of this species. C. orbiculatus produces viable seeds, successfully reproduces and spreads within and around the established stands. The presence of seedlings and two- to four-year-old saplings in the population confirms constant generative recruitment. Available information on the distribution of C. orbiculatus in Europe revealed its existence in 13 countries. In total, 58 occurrences of this species have been recorded in Europe so far. We consider that the lag period lasted until 2005 and that the exponential population growth phase has now set in. In Lithuania, the invaded area is quite small (0.51 ha); however, the total estimated invaded area in Europe could be about 250 ha. At the current stage of invasion and distribution in Europe, measures for control, management, and eradication of C. orbiculatus have a chance of being effective and economically feasible.
["dendrochronology"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Non-native spiders change assemblages of Hawaiian forest fragment kipuka over space and time
We assessed how assemblages of spiders were structured in small Hawaiian tropical forest fragments (Hawaiian, kipuka) within a matrix of previous lava flows, over both space (sampling kipuka of different sizes) and time (comparison with a similar study from 1998). Standardized hand-collection by night was carried out in May 2016. In total, 702 spiders were collected, representing 6 families and 25 (morpho-)species. We found that the number of individuals, but not species richness, was highly correlated with the area of sampled forest fragments, suggesting that kipuka act as separate habitat islands for these predatory arthropods. Species richness was significantly lower in the lava matrix outside the kipuka compared to the kipuka habitats, although there was no statistical difference in species composition between the two habitats, largely because of similarity of non-native species in both habitats. Over the last 20 years, the abundance of non-native spider species substantially increased in both kipuka and lava habitats, in marked contrast to the vegetation that has remained more intact. With endemicity of terrestrial arthropods reaching over 95% in native forests, non-native predatory species present a critical challenge to the endemic fauna.
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Context-dependent differences in the functional responses of conspecific native and non-native crayfishes
Invasive species are proliferating globally and cause a range of impacts, necessitating risk assessment and prioritization prior to management action. Experimentally derived estimates of per capita effects (e.g. functional responses) have been advocated as predictors of field impacts of potential invaders. However, risk assessments based on estimates from single populations can be misleading if per capita effects vary greatly across space and time. Here, we present a large-scale, multi-population comparison of per capita effects of the American spinycheek crayfish, Faxonius (formerly Orconectes) limosus—a species with an extensive invasion history in eastern North America and Europe. Functional responses were measured on individuals from six geographically disparate populations of F. limosus in its native and invaded ranges on two continents. These revealed inter-population differences in both the maximum feeding rate and functional response type that could not be explained by the biogeographic origin of the population nor by time since the invasion. We propose that other differences in source communities (including the presence of competitors) impose selective pressures for phenotypic traits that result in dissimilar per capita effects. We also compared functional responses of the congeners F. limosus and F. virilis in the presence and absence of potential competitors to examine indirect competitive effects on feeding behaviour. The maximum feeding rate of F. limosus, but not F. virilis, was suppressed in the presence of heterospecific and conspecific competitors, demonstrating how the per capita effects of these species can differ across biotic contexts. In the competitor-presence experiments, individuals from the invasive population of F. limosus consistently had a higher maximum feeding rate than those of the native F. virilis, regardless of treatment. Our results caution against invasion risk assessments that use information from only one (or a few) populations or that do not consider the biotic context of target habitats. We conclude that comparative functional responses offer a rapid assessment tool for invader ecological impacts under context dependencies when multiple populations are analyzed.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Effects of osmotic and thermal shock on the invasive aquatic mudsnail Potamopyrgus antipodarum: mortality and physiology under stressful conditions
Invasive freshwater species, such as the exotic mollusc Potamopyrgus antipodarum (New Zealand mudsnail), can frequently survive under harsh conditions, including brackish and hypoxic environments. We experimentally assessed the effects of osmotic (0, 10, 20, 25 and 30 psu) and thermal (20 °C) shock on mortality, activity and physiology of P. antipodarum collected at Capitol Lake, Olympia, Washington, USA, during winter and spring seasons when environmental temperature was 5 and 10 °C respectively. We measured standard metabolic rate and enzymatic activities (malate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, alanopine dehydrogenase) in snails after a 10-day acclimation period at high salinity. Significantly higher mortalities were observed at higher salinities; the strongest effects occurred on snails collected at the end of winter, and exposed to 30 psu and 20 °C (100% mortality in 3 days). When snails were collected during the spring, 100% mortality was observed after 40 days at 30 psu and 20 °C. Standard metabolic rates were significantly lower when snails were exposed to salinities of 25 and 30 psu, even after 10 days of acclimation. Enzymatic activities showed small but significant declines after 10 days at 30 psu reflecting the declines observed in overall metabolism. The physiological tolerances to temperature and salinity displayed by this population of P. antipodarum make its eradication from Capital Lake difficult to achieve.
["Ecophysiology"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations"]

Stuck amongst introduced species: Trophic ecology reveals complex relationships between the critically endangered Niau kingfisher and introduced predators, competitors and prey
The introduction of mammals on oceanic islands currently threatens or has caused the extinction of many endemic species. Cats and rats represent the major threat for 40 % of currently endangered island bird species. Direct (predation) and/or indirect (exploitative competition for food resource) trophic interactions are key mechanisms by which invaders cause the decrease or extinction of native populations. Here, we investigated both direct and indirect trophic interactions amongst four predator species (i.e. animals that hunt, kill and feed on other animals), including three introduced mammals (Felis silvestris catus, Rattus rattus and Rattus exulans) and one critically endangered native bird, the Niau kingfisher (Todiramphus gertrudae). All four species’ diets and prey availability were assessed from sampling at the six main kingfisher habitats on Niau Island during the breeding season. Diet analyses were conducted on 578 cat scats, 295 rat digestive tracts (218 R. exulans and 77 R. rattus) and 186 kingfisher pellets. Despite simultaneous use of morphological and PCR-based methods, no bird remains in cat and rat diet samples could be assigned to the Niau kingfisher, weakening the hypothesis of current intense predation pressure. However, we determined that Niau kingfishers mainly feed on introduced and/or cryptogenic prey and highlighted the potential for exploitative competition between this bird and both introduced rat species (for Dictyoptera, Coleoptera and Scincidae). We recommend removing the cats and both rat species, at least within kingfisher breeding and foraging areas (e.g. mechanical or chemical control, cat sterilisation, biosecurity reinforcement), to simultaneously decrease predation risk, increase key prey availability and boost kingfisher population dynamics.
["Island bird conservation"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

A preliminary field trial to compare control techniques for invasive Berberis aquifolium in Belgian coastal dunes
Non-native Berberis aquifolium is an invasive species in Belgian coastal dunes. With its strong clonal growth through suckers, this evergreen shrub outcompetes native species and affects dune succession. To prevent further secondary spread and mitigate its impact, there was an urgent need for knowledge on the effectiveness of control measures, both at the plant and habitat level. Here, we report on a first control experiment. Individual B. aquifolium clones were subjected to one of four treatments (manual uprooting, foliar herbicide application, stem cutting followed by herbicide or salt application), with regrowth being measured up to one year after treatment. We analyzed the relationship between kill rate, treatment, dune area, plant volume and number of plant stems using a generalized linear model. Berberis aquifolium plants proved most susceptible to foliar herbicide application (5% glyphosate solution), resulting in 88% (64%–97%) of the clones dying after treatment. The predicted kill rate decreased with an increasing number of stems under all treatments. We discuss the limitations of our experiment and the potential for actual field application of the different treatments. We present some guidelines for future control that may become further refined as experience builds up and we provide some recommendations for tackling invasive alien species in Atlantic dune ecosystems.
["control"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Native generalist consumers interact strongly with seeds of the invasive wild cucumber (Echinocystis lobata)
When alien plant species arrive in a new environment, they develop novel interactions with native biota that can range from negative to positive. Determining the nature and strength of these interactions is integral to understanding why some aliens are suppressed and others become highly invasive pests. For introduced terrestrial plants, seed and seedling interactions with native biota are crucial, because most nascent populations start from seed. Herein, we explored interactions between native generalist rodent and bird consumers and seeds of the invasive wild cucumber Echinocystis lobata by conducting seed-offering experiments in Poland. We also evaluated how interspecific competition from native plants and intraspecific competition from clustering of E. lobata seed (clustering resembling consumer seed caching) affected survival of seedlings and young plants. Native consumers interacted strongly with E. lobata seeds, with rodents removing 98% of seeds from ground locations and birds removing 24% of elevated seeds. Camera and live traps indicated that striped field mice Apodemus agrarius were the predominant rodent removing seeds. Camera traps and visual observations indicated that great tits Parus major and European jays Garrulus glandarius were the primary bird species removing elevated seeds. While some level of seed removal was likely attributable to seed predation, as indicated by seed coat remains, we also observed evidence that rodents may cache E. lobata seeds and Garrulus glandarius are known to cache and disperse seeds. Monitoring of seedlings indicated that increasing cover of native plants and clustering of E. lobata seedlings both reduced survival of seedlings and young plants due to inter- and intraspecific competition, respectively. Hence, caching by generalist consumers may disperse E. lobata seeds, which are heavy and lack dispersal adaptations, but such caching may also reduce individual seedling survival rates. Fully understanding invasion success of the E. lobata will require evaluating the net effects of generalist consumers on its recruitment and dispersal.
["biotic resistance"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Mathematical and Theoretical Epidemiology and Ecology Models"]

Increasing impacts by Antarctica’s most widespread invasive plant species as result of direct competition with native vascular plants
Biological invasions represent significant economic and conservation challenges, though it is widely acknowledged that their impacts are often poorly documented and difficult to predict. In the Antarctic, one non-native vascular plant species is widespread and studies have shown negative impacts on native flora. Using field “common garden” experiments, we evaluate the competitive impact of the increasingly widespread invasive grass Poa annua on the only two native vascular species of Antarctica, the forb Colobanthus quitensis and the grass Deschampsia antarctica. We focus on interactions between these three plant species under current and a future, wetter, climate scenario, in terms of density of individuals. Our analysis demonstrates Poa annua has the potential to have negative impacts on the survival and growth of the native Antarctic vascular species. Under predicted future wetter conditions, C. quitensis communities will become more resistant to invasion, while those dominated by D. antarctica will become less resistant. Under a recently developed unified scheme for non-native species impacts, P. annua can be considered a species that can cause potentially moderate to major impacts in Antarctica. If current patterns of increased human pressure and regional climate change persist and mitigation action is not taken (i.e. reduction of propagule pressure and eradication or control measures), P. annua is likely to spread in Antarctica, especially in the Antarctic Peninsula region, with significant negative consequences for some of the most remote and pristine ecosystems worldwide. Tighter biosecurity across all operators in the region, improved surveillance for the species, and prompt, effective control actions will reduce these risks.
["Invasions"]
["Polar Research and Ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Soil solarization based on natural soil moisture: a practical approach for reducing the seed bank of invasive plants in wetlands
Soil solarization is a well-established method to disinfect soil for efficient weed control. However, the feasibility of applying this method in the restoration of invaded natural habitats is unclear. This is because soil moisture is necessary for the success of solarization, but pre-irrigation in natural ecosystems is often not applicable, or demands high labor investment, making it unsuitable for use in restoration. The present study was based on the idea that the relatively high soil moisture in wetlands might obviate the need for pre-irrigation, rendering this method much more applicable in natural habitats. We examined the efficacy of soil solarization using natural soil moisture to control the seed bank of the invasive plant, Acacia saligna, in a wetland, using large-scale experimental plots (0.38 ha each). An old, dense A. saligna grove was cut down and the roots were removed by a bulldozer. The plot was mulched with a transparent polyethylene sheet in early July and left on the soil for 14 weeks. Soil solarization significantly reduced the viability of seeds of A. saligna that had been experimentally buried. Additionally, viability of seeds in the natural seed bank was reduced, and seedling emergence was close to zero. Exposing seeds to soil temperature and soil moisture levels equivalent to those obtained during field soil solarization under controlled conditions significantly increased the release from dormancy of the seeds, suggesting that release from dormancy during the early stage of solarization is a critical stage leading to seed weakening or mortality in the soil. Soil solarization also decreased the cover and abundance of the natural vegetation; therefore, active revegetation is required to restore the natural vegetation and to conserve endangered and endemic species.
["Acacia saligna"]
["Plant Disease Management Techniques", "Weed Control and Herbicide Applications", "Plant tissue culture and regeneration"]

Using verified citizen science as a tool for monitoring the European hornet (Vespa crabro) in the island of Sardinia (Italy)
The European hornet, Vespa crabro L. (Hymenoptera: Vespidae), is a eusocial insect native to Eurasia that was accidentally introduced in the island of Sardinia (Italy) in 2010. This alien generalist predator could impact on native insect species through predation or competition by modifying interspecific relations in sensitive island ecosystems. As part of the Interreg project ALIEM, the present work regarded the first monitoring activity of the European hornet conducted in Sardinia by means of verified citizen science. The main goals of this study were to define the distribution area of the wasp in 2018 and evaluate the profile and the performance of citizen scientists. Our results showed that V. crabro is mainly located in north-eastern Sardinia and that the hotspot was probably the commercial port of Olbia. Furthermore, data provided by contributors were very accurate and none of the parameters considered to define the participants (age, gender, education level, job category) was a true predictor of a volunteer’s ability to recognise the wasp. In conclusion, this small-scale study suggests that citizen scientists could be a valuable aid to monitor already-established alien species and could be part of a surveillance network for early detection of other potentially invasive alien species not yet introduced in Sardinia, such as the yellow-legged hornet, Vespa velutina, which is already present in northern Italy.
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Seed-bank dynamics of native and invasive Impatiens species during a five-year field experiment under various environmental conditions
Despite recent evidence on the important role of seed banks associated with plant invasions, and a large body of literature on invasive annual Impatiens species, little is known about the seed bank characteristics of Impatiens species. To bridge this gap, we conducted a five-year field experiment where we buried seeds of two invasive species (I. glandulifera and I. parviflora) and one native species (I. noli-tangere) across four localities in the Czech Republic, harbouring all three Impatiens species and differing in the environmental conditions. We found that the three Impatiens species differed in the characteristics of their seed banks. Both invasive species had a high seed germination rate of almost 100% in the first year after seed burial, while <50% of seeds of the native I. noli-tangere germinated during this year. In I. parviflora all seeds germinated in the first year after seed burial and later decomposed, i.e. the species had a transient seed bank. For I. glandulifera, the most invasive species, the survival of seeds differed among localities. At the first and second localities, the seeds decomposed in the first year after seed burial; in the third locality the seeds germinated in the second year; and in the fourth one, the seeds still germinated in the fourth year. The native I. noli-tangere formed a short-term persistent seed bank across all localities. Germinating or dormant seeds were found in the third year after burial in all localities, and in one locality the seeds persisted until the fifth year. The germination and dormancy in I. noli-tangere were constrained by low minimum temperatures during winter. In addition, germination was highest at intermediate soil moisture, and the most dormant seeds were recorded in soils with intermediate nitrogen concentration. The germination of I. glandulifera was slightly limited by low soil nitrogen. However, no such effect was found in I. parviflora. We suggest that in the invasive Impatiens species seed resistance to environmental factors and high germination at least partly explain their wide distribution.
["balsam"]

Long term monitoring of recruitment dynamics determines eradication feasibility for an introduced coastal weed
Bitou bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata) is a Weed of National Significance in Australia and has impacted a significant portion of the eastern coastline. Its discovery in Western Australia was, therefore, a cause for concern. Assessment and control of the isolated and well-defined population began in 2012. To assess the feasibility of eradication in Western Australia as a management outcome for bitou bush, we applied a rigorous data-driven quantification and prediction process to the control program. Between 2012 and 2018 we surveyed over 253 ha of land and removed 1766 bitou bush plants. Approximately 97 person-days were spent over the six years of survey. We measured the seed bank viability for five years starting in 2013, with the 2017 survey results indicating a decline of mean viable seeds/m2 from 39.3 ± 11.4 to 5.7 ± 2.2. In 2018 we found only ten plants and no newly recruited seedlings in the population. No spread to other areas has been recorded. Soil core studies indicate that the soil seed bank is unlikely to persist beyond eight years. Eradication of the population in Western Australia, defined as five years without plants being detected, therefore remains a realistic management goal. The information generated from the documentation of this eradication program provides invaluable insight for weed eradication attempts more generally: novel detection methods can be effective in making surveys more efficient, all survey methods are not entirely accurate and large plants can escape detection, bitou bush seeds persist in the soil but become effectively undetectable at low densities, and migration of seed was unquantifiable, possibly compromising delimitation. Continued monitoring of the Western Australian population will determine how much of a risk these factors represent to eradication as the outcome of this management program.
["Control effort"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Impacts of non-native fishes under a seasonal temperature gradient are forecasted using functional responses and abundances
Developing predictive methods to forecast the impacts of existing and emerging invasive species is of critical importance to biodiversity conservation. However, invader impacts are context-dependent, making reliable and robust predictions challenging. In particular, it is unclear how temporal variabilities in relation to temperature regime shifts influence invader ecological impacts. In the present study, we quantify the functional responses of three coexisting freshwater fishes: the native freshwater River Goby Glossogobius callidus, and the non-native Mozambique Tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus and Western Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis, under two temperature treatments using chironomid larvae as prey. This was used along with fish abundance data to determine temporal differences in ecological impacts of each fish species between seasons (i.e. at two corresponding temperatures). All three fish species exhibited potentially population-destabilizing Type II functional responses. Their maximum feeding rates were consistently higher in the warm temperature treatment, whereas attack rates tended to be reduced. Non-native Mozambique Tilapia had the highest maximum feeding rate under both temperature treatments (18 °C and 25 °C), followed by the non-native Western Mosquitofish and lastly the native River Goby, suggesting greater per capita impacts on native prey by non-native fishes. The predatory fish abundances differed significantly according to season, with native River Goby and non-native Mozambique Tilapia generally more abundant than non-native Western Mosquitofish. By multiplying functional response maximum feeding rates with abundances of each fish species across the seasonal gradient, the relative impact potential of non-native Mozambique Tilapia was consistently higher compared to that of native gobies. Western Mosquitofish impacts were less apparent, owing to their low abundances. We demonstrate how seasonal temperature fluctuations affect the relative impact capacities of introduced species and the utility of consumer functional response and the relative impact potential metric in impact forecasting.
["Context-dependence"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Contact rates with nesting birds before and after invasive snake removal: estimating the effects of trap-based control
Invasive predators are responsible for almost 60% of all vertebrate extinctions worldwide with the most vulnerable faunas occurring on islands. The brown treesnake (Boiga irregularis) is a notorious invasive predator that caused the extirpation or extinction of most native forest birds on Guam. The success of avian reintroduction efforts on Guam will depend on whether snake-control techniques sufficiently reduce contact rates between brown treesnakes and reintroduced birds. Mouse-lure traps can successfully reduce brown treesnake populations at local scales. Over a 22-week period both with and without active snake removal, we evaluated snake-trap contact rates for mouse- and bird-lure traps. Bird-lure traps served as a proxy for reintroduced nesting birds. Overall, mouse-lure traps caught more snakes per trap night than did bird-lure traps. However, cameras revealed that bird-lure traps had a snake contact rate almost 15 times greater than the number of successfully captured snakes. Snakes that entered bird-lure traps tended to be larger and in better body condition and were mostly captured in bird-lure traps, despite numerous adjacent mouse-lure traps. Traps placed along grid edges caught more snakes than interior traps, suggesting continuous immigration into the trapping grid within which bird-lure traps were located. Contact between snakes and bird-lure traps was equivalent before and after snake removal, suggesting mouse-lure traps did not adequately reduce the density of snakes that posed a risk to birds, at least at the timescale of this project. This study provides evidence that some snakes exhibit prey selectivity for live birds over live mouse lures. Reliance on a single control tool and lure may be inadequate for support of avian reintroductions and could lead to unintended harvest-driven trait changes of this invasive predator.
["Avian recovery"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Plant and animal studies", "Avian ecology and behavior"]

Population responses of common carp Cyprinus carpio to floods and droughts in the Pampean wetlands of South America
Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a global invader that exhibits a wide distribution in Argentina, particularly in shallow lakes and wetlands of the Pampean region. The hydrological conditions of these environments are driven by variations in annual precipitation that determine inter annual changes in water levels leading to flood-drought cycles. The present study focused on understanding the C. carpio population responses to annual rainfall regime and long-term flood and drought events in the Ajó wetlands located in the east of the Pampean region. The results of a two-year biological sampling program showed that C. carpio feeding rate, reproduction, condition, and recruitment were associated with the hydrological cycle. Otolith derived age structure of the population and back-calculated recruitment strength revealed that extraordinary flooding events generated strong cohorts while dry years resulted in low recruitment. Its long-life span (maximum 14 years in Ajó) coupled with a high fecundity, and broad diet allows C. carpio to persist in refugia during dry years and capitalize on wet years when inundation of the floodplain enhances recruitment and facilitates spread. Management and control strategies for this invader should therefore incorporate hydrological variability by promoting intensive removal campaigns during dry years when populations are dominated by large fish confined in remnant water-bodies and, during wet years, carp harvest fisheries should be promoted to reduce population density when increased connectivity is likely to facilitate spread.
["Cyprinus carpio"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Unravelling the origin and introduction pattern of the tropical species Paracaprella pusilla Mayer, 1890 (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Caprellidae) in temperate European waters: first molecular insights from a spatial and temporal perspective
Paracaprella pusilla Mayer, 1890 is a tropical caprellid species recently introduced to the Eastern Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula and the Mediterranean Sea. In this study, we used direct sequencing of mitochondrial (COI and 16S) and nuclear (28S and ITS) genes to compare genetic differences in presumed native and introduced populations in order to infer its introduction pattern and to shed light on the native range of this species. The temporal pattern of genetic diversity at the westernmost limit of the geographic range of P. pusilla in Europe (the Atlantic coast of southern Spain) over an eight-year period was also investigated. Our results confirm P. pusilla as a neocosmopolitan species and suggest that the species is native to the Atlantic coast of Central and South America. Paracaprella pusilla seems to have been introduced into European waters from multiple introduction pathways and source populations, which are likely to include populations from coastal waters of Brazil. Multiple introduction pathways may have been involved, with the most important being commercial shipping through the Strait of Gibraltar. While this tropical species appears to be expanding in the Mediterranean, populations from the westernmost limit of its geographic range in Europe showed a temporal instability. This study constitutes the first molecular approach focused on this species, but it is also the first study of temporal change in genetic diversity of any introduced marine amphipod. Additional intensive sampling of this species, including both native and non-native populations, and detailed temporal studies are still necessary to properly understand how genetic diversity influences the introduction and survival of P. pusilla in invaded areas.
["Caprellid amphipod"]

Low litter cover, high light availability and rock cover favour the establishment of Ailanthus altissima in forests in southern Switzerland
Future forest composition is uncertain in many areas due to climate change. The spread of non-native species adds to these uncertainties, particularly in forests recently colonised by novel tree species. To anticipate future forest composition, and thus the provision of ecosystem services, a thorough understanding of the factors influencing the establishment of non-native tree species is essential. We studied the presence and abundance of regeneration of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle in 89 plots on a regular grid in three sites in southern Switzerland to determine the main drivers of its establishment. All sites are located in abandoned, i.e. currently unmanaged stands of Castanea sativa Mill. Propagule pressure is caused by single mature A. altissima that colonised the area ca 40 years ago. We found high rock cover, low litter cover and high light availability to be the most important predictors for the presence of A. altissima regeneration, whereas its abundance was positively influenced by high light availability, low litter cover and high browsing on regeneration of competing species. However, the presence models performed much better than the abundance models. Interestingly, the most important factors favouring the establishment of A. altissima in recently undisturbed sites were found to be similar in a nearby site after a severe forest fire, which suggests a similar establishment strategy after a disturbance as in recently undisturbed forests. Based on our results we expect a further expansion of the species in lowland forests currently dominated by C. sativa, likely controlled primarily by light availability.
["Ailanthus altissima (tree of heaven)"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Low detectability of alien reptiles can lead to biosecurity management failure: a case study from Christmas Island (Australia)
When we assume that contemporary management actions will be effective against the global rise of emerging alien species, we can develop management complacency, which leads to potentially disastrous outcomes for native biodiversity. Here, we propose the use of the probability of detection as a metric to assess the feasibility of management actions for alien species. We explore how detectability can influence the management of alien reptiles, a group of emergent alien vertebrates globally. We use a Rapid Biological Assessment method (time-limited transects) to estimate the probability of detection for alien reptiles present on Christmas Island (Australia). Across the five species studied, we found low probabilities of detection and poor explanatory capacity of the individual covariates included in our models. These findings indicate that management options to deal with alien reptiles are limited due to the potential high cost and low efficacy associated with low probabilities of detection. Strict preventive strategies, firmly espousing the principles of adaptiveness and precautionary policies, combined with early detection and biosecurity response activities are needed to address the emergence of alien reptiles. Our research was focussed on alien reptiles on islands, but the rise of new pools of alien species from all taxonomic realms across the world suggests that our conclusions may be applicable more generally. Further research is called for to explore the applicability of our conclusions and recommendations to other taxonomic groups and regions of the world.
["Anticipatory policy-making"]
["Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Relative impacts of the invasive Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, over the native blue mussel, Mytilus edulis, are mediated by flow velocity and food concentration
The ecological impacts of invasive species can be severe, but are generally viewed as highly unpredictable. Recent methods combining per capita feeding rates, population abundances and environmental contexts have shown great utility in predicting invader impacts. Here, clearance rates of the invasive Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, and native mussel, Mytilus edulis, were investigated in a laboratory experiment where oscillatory water flow and algal food concentrations were manipulated. Invasive oysters had lower clearance rates than native mussels in all experimental groups and did not differ among flow velocities or food concentrations. Native mussel clearance rates were higher at 5 cm s-1 compared to 0 and 15 cm s-1 flow velocities and increased with increasing food concentration. The Relative Impact Potential (RIP) metric was used to assess (i) the influence of flow velocity and food concentration on potential impacts of C. gigas on plankton resources and, (ii) the impacts of coexisting reefs, containing both species, on resources compared to monospecific native mussel beds. Greatest Relative Impact Potential of invasive oysters was seen at the lowest flow velocity, but became reduced with increasing flow velocity and food concentration. Relative Impact Potentials of coexisting reefs were generally greater than monospecific native mussel beds, with greatest impacts predicted at lowest flow velocity. We suggest that the greatest ecological impacts and competition potential of C. gigas will occur in areas with low flow velocity, but that increased flow will mediate co-existence between the two species.
["Bivalves"]
["Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology"]

The dark side of facilitation: native shrubs facilitate exotic annuals more strongly than native annuals
Positive interactions enhance biodiversity and ecosystem function, but can also exacerbate biological invasions. Facilitation of exotic invaders by exotic foundation species (invasional meltdown) has been studied extensively, but facilitation of exotic invaders by native foundation species has attracted less attention. Specifically, very few studies have examined the extent that native foundation species facilitate native and exotic competitors. Understanding the processes that mediate interactions between native and exotic species can help explain, predict, and improve management of biological invasions. Here, we examined the effects of native foundation shrubs on the relative abundance of the annual plant community – including native and exotic taxa – from 2015–2018 in a desert ecosystem at Carrizo Plain National Monument, California, USA (elevation: 723 m). Shrub effects varied by year and by the identity of annual species, but shrubs consistently enhanced the abundance of the annual plant community and facilitated both native (n=17 species) and exotic (n=4 species) taxa. However, at the provenance level, exotic annuals were facilitated 2.75 times stronger in abundance than native annuals, and exotic annuals were always more abundant than natives both near and away from shrubs. Our study reaffirms facilitation as an important process in the organisation of plant communities and confirms that both native and exotic species can form positive associations with native foundation species. However, facilitation by native foundation species can exacerbate biological invasions by increasing the local abundance of exotic invaders. Thus, the force of facilitation can have a dark side relevant to ecosystem function and management.
["Bromus rubens"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

The interplay between propagule pressure, seed predation and ectomycorrhizal fungi in plant invasion
There are many hypotheses aiming to explain invasion success, but evaluating individual hypotheses in isolation may hinder our ability to understand why some species invade and others fail. Here we evaluate the interaction between propagule pressure, seed predation and missed mutualism in the invasion success of the pine, Pinus ponderosa. We evaluated the independent and interactive effects of propagule pressure and seed predation at increasing distances from a pine plantation. Additionally, because pines are obligate mutualists with ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) and pine invasions fail in the absence of their EMF symbionts, we evaluated EMF availability through a growth chamber bioassay. In this bioassay we measured root colonization by EMF with soil samples collected from the different distances from the plantation. We found that propagule pressure overwhelms seed predation only at the edge of the pine plantation, while seed predation overcomes propagule pressure at 25 m and further distances from the plantation. We also found that EMF root colonization decreases with distance from the plantation. However, pine roots were colonized up to 200 m from the plantation, suggesting that EMF may not be hindering invasion, at least not on the scale of this experiment. Taken together our results demonstrate that seed predation may be limiting the invasion of P. ponderosa in the study region as propagule pressure only overcomes seed predation at the plantation edge. Here we provide evidence of how strong biotic resistance can suppress an invasion, regardless of the variation in propagule pressure and the availability of mutualists.
["Biotic resistance"]
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Steatoda nobilis, a false widow on the rise: a synthesis of past and current distribution trends
The Noble False Widow, Steatoda nobilis (Thorell, 1875) (Araneae, Theridiidae), is, due to its relatively large size and potential medical importance, one of the most notable invasive spider species worldwide. Probably originating from the Canary Islands and Madeira, the species is well established in Western Europe and large parts of the Mediterranean area and has spread recently into California and South America, while Central European populations were not known until 2011. We report on long-time observations that reveal that at least two flourishing populations in Germany (Cologne) have been present for over five years, while in Ecuador one population has been observed between 2014 and 2018 and several other records were made in other parts of the country. Data obtained from the British Spider Recording Scheme demonstrate that the species moved significantly northwards since the report of the first populations in the very South of England, after several decades of relative stasis. The sudden northward expansion highly correlates with a massive rise in press coverage of the species. In the Americas, S. nobilis is currently known from four countries (USA, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia), and available DNA barcoding data obtained for specimens from this area suggest that multiple introductions occurred within each country. Using ecological niche modeling, we identified suitable climate regions for the species and discuss possible reasons for its current spread. We propose that seaside cities and villages with a temperate oceanic or Mediterranean climate are especially favourable potential habitats for S. nobilis and will face the highest colonization pressure in the future, while tropical upland regions with temperate climates are also vulnerable to invasion by S. nobilis.
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food"]

Functional traits of acquisitive invasive woody species differ from conservative invasive and native species
One of the most important sources of invasiveness is species’ functional traits and their variability. However there are still few studies on invasive tree species traits conducted along resource gradients that allow for a comparison of acquisitive and conservative strategies. We aimed to assess the differences in trait variation among native alien conservative and alien acquisitive tree species along resource availability gradients (soil fertility and light availability) and to assess the traits variability of the species studied along resources availability gradients. Our study compared invasive tree species in Europe (Prunus serotina Ehrh. Quercus rubra L. and Robinia pseudoacacia L.) with their native competitors (Acer pseudoplatanus L. A. platanoides L. Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl. and Fagus sylvatica L.). The study was conducted on 1329 seedlings and saplings collected in a system of 372 study plots in W Poland. For each individual we assessed leaf stem and root mass ratios total biomass leaf area ratio specific leaf area and projected leaf area. Two invasive species (P. serotina and R. pseudoacacia) represented a more acquisitive strategy than native species – along litter pH and light availability gradients these species had higher leaf mass fraction specific leaf area and leaf area ratio. In contrast Q. rubra had the highest total biomass and root mass fraction. Alien species usually had higher coefficients of variation of studied traits. This suggests that relatively high projected leaf area as a way of filling space and outcompeting native species may be reached in two ways – biomass allocation to leaves and control of leaf morphology or by overall growth rate. High variability of invasive species traits also suggests randomness in seedling survival which similarly to the neutral theory of invasion highlights the necessity of including randomness in modelling biological invasions.
["Prunus"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest ecology and management"]

The stone pine, Pinus pinea L., a new highly rewarding host for the invasive Leptoglossus occidentalis
The invasive seed bug Leptoglossus occidentalis, a species native to Western North America, is of major concern for the producers of stone pine seeds in the Mediterranean countries. The large size of these edible seeds and their nutritive content may represent a pull factor for the seed bug. Cone and seed traits of three main Mediterranean pine species: P. pinea, P. pinaster, and P. halepensis, were evaluated. Preference trials with cone-bearing branches, individual cones and seeds were conducted to test host preference among the three host species. Considering the kernel size, stone pine seeds provide 4 to 13 times more reward than P. pinaster and P. halepensis seeds, respectively, but also needed a greater effort to be reached as measured by coat thickness. Still, the benefit/cost ratio was higher on P. pinea. Individual seeds and cones of P. pinea were 2 to 3 times more consumed than those of the two other pine species. However, branch preference trials did not reveal any difference in bug visits. Moreover, adults manifested strong group behaviour on branches, frequently dissociating into two persisting groups. The implications of these results for P. pinea producing areas are discussed.
["seed feeder"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Variation in phenology and overall performance traits can help to explain the plant invasion process amongst Mediterranean ecosystems
Plant traits such as phenological development, growth rate, stress tolerance and seeds production may play an important role in the process of acclimatisation to new environments for introduced plants. Experiments that distinguish phenotypic plasticity from ecotypic differentiation would allow an understanding of the role of plant traits in the invasion process. We quantified the variation in phenological and overall performance traits associated with the invasion process for three herbaceous species native to Spain and invasive to Chile (Trifolium glomeratum, Hypochaeris glabra and Leontodon saxatilis). We grew plants from native and exotic populations along rainfall gradients in outdoor common gardens, located in the native and the introduced ranges and measured plant survival, phenology (days to flowering), biomass and seed output. Days to flowering was positively correlated with precipitation of the origin population for T. glomeratum and the native populations of H. glabra, but this pattern was not adaptive, as it was not associated with an increase in performance traits of these species. Phenology may instead reflect ecotypic differentiation to the environmental conditions of the original populations. Comparison between ranges (i.e. performance in both common gardens) was only possible for L. saxatilis. This species showed little variation in phenology and both native and exotic populations had higher fitness in the introduced range. This suggests that plasticity enhances invasiveness through increased propagule pressure in the novel environment. Our findings highlight the utility of common garden experiments in examining patterns of phenological and performance traits that relate to species invasiveness.
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Ambrosia artemisiifolia control in agricultural areas: effect of grassland seeding and herbivory by the exotic leaf beetle Ophraella communa
Ambrosia artemisiifolia (common ragweed) is an invasive species native to North America and was accidentally introduced to Europe in the 19th century. Widespread in disturbed habitats, it is a major weed in spring-sown crops and it causes serious allergic rhinitis and asthma due to its allergenic pollen. The aim of this research was to analyse the effects of both competitive vegetation and herbivory by Ophraella communa to control A. artemisiifolia in an agricultural area of north-western Italy. Hayseed mixtures, both over-seeded over the resident plant community or after ploughing, when seeded before the winter season, were able to suppress the establishment of A. artemisiifolia as well as to reduce its growth in terms of plant height and inflorescence size. Defoliation of A. artemisiifolia by O. communa at the end of the growing season was conspicuous but most of the plants still produced flowers and seeds. However, significant O. communa attack was recorded for reproductive structures. As for non-target species, O. communa was mainly recorded on Asteraceae, with low density and low degree of damage. Reduction of inflorescence size due to competitive vegetation and damage to male flowers by O. communa may diminish the amount of available pollen. The results of this study may be useful for the implementation of management measures to control A. artemisiifolia in agricultural areas using mixtures of native species.
["Allergenic species"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Syndromes in suites of correlated traits suggest multiple mechanisms facilitating invasion in a plant range-expander
Various mechanisms can facilitate the success of plant invasions simultaneously, but may be difficult to disentangle. In the present study, plants of the range-expanding species Bunias orientalis from native, invasive and naturalised, not yet invasive populations were compared in a field common garden over two years. Plants were grown under two nitrate-regimes and multiple traits regarding growth, defence, antagonist loads and reproduction were measured. A rank-based clustering approach was used to assign correlated traits to distinct suites. These suites were analysed for “syndromes” that are expressed as a function of population origin and/or fertilisation treatment and might represent different invasion mechanisms. Indeed, distinct suites of traits were differentially affected by these factors. The results suggest that several pre-adaptation properties, such as certain growth characteristics and intraspecific chemical variation, as well as post-introduction adaptations to antagonists and resource availability in novel habitats, are candidate mechanisms that facilitate the success of invasive B. orientalis in parallel. It was concluded that rank-based clustering is a robust and expedient approach to integrate multiple traits for elucidating invasion syndromes within individual species. Studying a multitude of traits at different life-history and establishment stages of plants grown under distinct resource treatments reveals species-specific trade-offs and resource sinks and simplifies the interpretation of trait functions for the potential invasive success of plants.
["Glucosinolates"]

Comparing functional traits and abundance of invasive versus native woodwasps
Functional traits are useful for comparing the resource use of invasive and native species, with goals of identifying resource overlap to predict competitive interactions. The invasion of northeastern North America by the woodwasp Sirex noctilio has resulted in competition with the native congeneric Sirex nigricornis for suppressed and weakened pines. We compared sizes of adults, venom glands, fecundity, tree species use, voltinism and abundance of the invasive woodwasp S. noctilio with the native S. nigricornis in northeastern North American pines. Rearing adults from attacked pines showed that these species used the same tree species but S. noctilio were far more abundant, especially with increasing time since establishment. Adults of the invasive S. noctilio were larger than S. nigricornis, female S. noctilio had larger glands carrying phytotoxic venom in relation to body size, average-sized S. noctilio females carried more eggs, and S. noctilio developed faster than S. nigricornis. Sirex noctilio was the dominant woodwasp infesting suppressed pines in our study areas. We hypothesize that the future abundance of S. nigricornis could depend in part on the availability of wood for oviposition by this native that is not available or acceptable to the earlier-emerging S. noctilio.

Plant parasitic nematode survival and detection to inform biosecurity risk assessment
Plant parasitic nematodes (PPN) are known to survive periods of desiccation, an ability that increases the risk of them surviving unintentional transport between countries. To investigate nematode survival in soil subject to prolonged storage, soil collected from a native forest and an organic orchard was stored separately in cupboards at ambient temperature for 36 months. Subsamples were taken at 0, 3, 6, 12, 13, 24 and 36 months to determine the presence of plant parasitic and total nematodes using a standard misting technique. Pratylenchus was used as a model to determine if PPNs that had been under prolonged storage were able to infect plant hosts at 13, 24 and 36 months. Overall, the total number of nematodes recovered from stored soil declined over time, with differences in species diversity determined by molecular methods, related to soil origin. No PPN were recovered in soil stored beyond 13 months using the three-day misting technique. By comparison, Pratylenchus nematodes, using a baiting method, were found to successfully invade host plant roots (ryegrass and white clover) even after 36 months storage and were observed to produce offspring at 13 months. Baiting was not effective for Pratylenchus found in soil originally collected from the forest but was for orchard soil, a result attributed to the lack of suitable host plants for the Pratylenchus species found in forest soil. This study demonstrated, that in protected environments, nematodes could survive for at least 36 months and were observed to produce offspring at 13 months. Baiting with a host plant was more sensitive in detecting nematodes than using the misting extraction technique, although this approach only works where the host plant is known. Without a priori knowledge of the nematode-plant host association, plant baiting may also produce false negatives. In the context of plant biosecurity and providing an accurate risk assessment in soil contaminants, the development of a generic test for PPN that induces nematodes in a resting stage to emerge and respond to a cue would enhance the probability of detection. However, as assessments at the border are often time limited, a molecular based bioassay that can be used to indicate the presence of multiple species of live PPN species may be a more feasible option for risk assessments.
["invasion pathways"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Legume Nitrogen Fixing Symbiosis", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

Ant species accumulation on Lord Howe Island highlights the increasing need for effective biosecurity on islands
Islands are particularly noteworthy for global conservation because of the high number of species they host, the high levels of species endemism, and the large number and proportion of species at risk of extinction. Much of the conservation threat on islands is from invasive species. Whilst biosecurity is an increasing focus of attention for authorities globally, species are continuing to establish in new locations outside of their native ranges. Among invasive species, ants are a prominent taxon, especially on islands. Over the past decade, following the detection of one of the world’s worst invasive ant species, African big-headed ant Pheidole megacephala, the environmental management authority on world-heritage-listed Lord Howe Island has focused attention on invasive ants. This detection influenced the creation of biosecurity measures to prevent further incursions of exotic species, particularly ants. Despite these efforts, over the following decade numerous ant species were collected on the island for the first time, indicating a serious biosecurity problem. Here, we investigate the chronosequence of ant introductions to Lord Howe Island to quantify the extent and nature of the island’s ant biosecurity problem. A total of 45 species have been collected on the island and of these, 12 are considered to be endemic, and a further seven are possibly native. Nineteen of the 26 introduced species (42% of the total fauna and 73% of the introduced fauna) were only found for the first time in the last 15 years. All but two of the species that are not native to Lord Howe Island are native to the Australian mainland, indicating that the biosecurity threat comes from the transport of goods from the Australian mainland. We suggest that the pattern of accelerating ant species accumulation on Lord Howe Island is probably not an isolated phenomenon, and that it is probably occurring on most islands globally that are habitable by ants and visited by people.
["alien"]

Mind the gap – context dependency in invasive species impacts: a case study of the ascidian Ciona robusta
In the face of increasing invasions and limited resources, appropriate management of invasive species requires prioritisation of species for management action. This process often relies on knowledge of species specific impacts. However, as studies explicitly measuring impact of marine alien species are rare, prioritisation of management actions is often based on studies from outside the geographic area of interest. Further, few impact studies account for context dependency (e.g. seasonal variability or distinct environmental regimes), raising the question of how transferrable knowledge about the impact of a species is between invaded ranges. This study addressed this question by using the widespread invasive solitary ascidian Ciona robusta as a case study for assessing impacts across two invaded regions: South Africa and California, USA. We replicated a previously conducted experiment from California that showed that C. robusta depresses local species richness in San Francisco Bay. Our South African experiment showed no effect of C. robusta on species richness, the Shannon-Weiner diversity index or community composition, despite experiments being carried out over two years and at two depths. While these results may reflect strong density dependency in the impact of C. robusta, they serve to highlight context dependency in invasive species impacts. This suggests that until studies of impact in marine systems become common place, context dependency should be explicitly addressed as a source of uncertainty during the prioritisation of species for management action.
["Ciona"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Defining the biosecurity risk posed by transported soil: Effects of storage time and environmental exposure on survival of soil biota
Soil frequently occurs as a contaminant on numerous sea, land and air transport pathways. It can carry unwanted invasive species, is widely recognized as a biosecurity risk, and is usually strictly regulated by biosecurity authorities. However, little is known about relative risk levels between pathways, thus authorities have limited capability to identify and target the riskiest soil pathways for management. We conducted a an experiment to test the hypotheses that biosecurity risks from soil organisms will increase both with declining transport duration and with increasing protection from environmental extremes. Soil was collected from two sites, a native forest remnant and an orchard, and stored on, in and under sea containers, or in cupboards, and assayed after 0, 3, 6 and 12 months for bacteria, fungi, nematodes and seeds. Results showed that viability of Pseudomonas spp., bacteria, nematodes and plants declined over 12 months, irrespective of soil source. Also, mortality of most biota was higher when exposed to sunlight, moisture and desiccation than when protected. However, bacterial and fungal numbers were higher in exposed environments, possibly due to ongoing colonization of exposed soil by airborne propagules. The results were consistent with our observations of organisms in soil intercepted from airports and sea ports, and indicated there is potential to rank risks from transported soils based partly on transport duration and environmental exposure. This would help authorities to optimally allocate management resources according to pathway-specific risks.
["Species invasion"]
["Environmental Conservation and Management", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation"]

Importance of soil and plant community disturbance for establishment of Bromus tectorum in the Intermountain West, USA
The annual grass Bromus tectorum has invaded millions of hectares in western North America and has transformed former perennial grass and shrub-dominated communities into annual grasslands. Fire plays a key role in the maintenance of B. tectorum on the landscape but the type of disturbance responsible for initial invasion is less well understood. We conducted an experiment in a perennial shrub/grass/forb community in eastern Idaho, USA to examine the roles of plant community and soil disturbance on B. tectorum emergence and establishment prior to state-changing fires. Our experiment consisted of a plant community disturbance treatment where we (1) removed the shrub component, (2) removed the grass/forb component, or (3) removed all shrubs, grasses, and forbs. We followed this treatment with seeding of B. tectorum onto the soil surface that was (1) intact, or (2) disturbed. Each experimental plot had an associated control with no plant community disturbance but was seeded in the same manner. The experiment was replicated 20 times in two sites (high and low aboveground biomass). We measured emergence by counting seedlings in late spring and establishment by counting, removing, and weighing B. tectorum individuals in mid-summer. We also examined the influence of plant community disturbance on the soil environment by measuring extractable NH4+ and NO3– four times each summer. Soil disturbance greatly influenced the number of B. tectorum individuals that emerged each spring. Plant community disturbance, specifically disturbance of the grass/forb component, increased N availability in the late growing season and biomass of B. tectorum the following summer. We conclude that soil disturbance and plant community disturbance interact to promote the initial invasion of B. tectorum in Intermountain West valley ecosystems.
["Cheatgrass"]
["Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

Comparison of growth traits between abundant and uncommon forms of a non-native vine, Dolichandra unguis-cati (Bignoniaceae) in Australia
Cat’s claw creeper vine, Dolichandra unguis-cati (L.) Lohmann (syn. Macfadyena unguis-cati (L.) Gentry) (Bignoniaceae), is a major environmental weed in Australia. Two distinct forms of this weed (‘long’ and ‘short’ pod), with differences in leaf morphology and fruit size, occur in Australia. The long pod form has only been reported in less than fifteen localities in the whole of south-east Queensland, while the short pod form is widely distributed in Queensland and New South Wales. This study sought to compare growth traits such as specific leaf area, relative growth rate, stem length, shoot/root ratio, tuber biomass and branching architecture between these forms. These traits were monitored under glasshouse conditions over a period of 18 months. Short pod exhibited higher values of relative growth rates, stem length, number of tubers and specific leaf area than long pod, but only after 10 months of plant growth. Prior to this, long and short pod did not differ significantly. Higher values for these traits have been described as characteristics of successful colonizers. Results from this study could partly explain why the short pod form is more widely distributed in Australia while long pod is confined to a few localities.
["Cat\u2019s claw creeper"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Elevational distribution and photosynthetic characteristics of the invasive tree Spathodea campanulata on the island of Tahiti (South Pacific Ocean)
Successful invasion is often due to a combination of species characteristics (or invasiveness) and habitat suitability (or invasibility). Our objective was to identify preferred habitats and suitable environmental conditions for the African tulip tree Spathodea campanulata (Bignoniaceae), one of the most invasive alien trees on the tropical island of French Polynesia (South Pacific Ocean), in relation to its distribution and photosynthesis capacity. Spathodea abundance and leaf chlorophyll fluorescence Fo’, ETRmax, and Y(II)effective were examined in relation to topography and micro-climate along elevational transects between 140 m and 1,300 m. Results showed that Spathodea is (1) present up to 1,240 m with lowest maximum July–October (cool season) temperature of 9.4 °C and an average July-October temperature of 14.6 °C, (2) is able to colonize slope steepness of more than 45°, (3) is well represented in the elevational range of 140–540 m as well as in the native forests between 940 m and 1,040 m, suggesting a high threat for native and endemic plants species. Along one of the transects, in the elevation range of 541–940 m, Spathodea was under-represented, Chl fluorescence Fo’ increased significantly while Y(II)effective decreased significantly supporting the hypothesis that this range is a non-preferred environment, probably due to micro-climate conditions characterized by punctual air dryness. Among Spathodea plants surveyed along a wetter transect, Y(II)effective and ETRmax were comparable from low elevation to mid-high elevation indicating that the potential photosynthesis rate of Spathodea may be similar from sea level until mid-high elevation. Major infestations on the island of Tahiti were reported on the leeward (drier and urbanized) west coast, but Spathodea has also been recently found on the slopes of the windward (wetter) east coast. Chlorophyll fluorescence measurements indicate a high photosynthetic capacity among Spathodea in wet environments suggesting that Spathodea will become invasive across most of the island of Tahiti.
["Invasive species"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

The status of weed biological control in Vanuatu
Biological control of weeds in Vanuatu began in 1935, with the introduction of the tingid Teleonemia scrupulosa to control Lantana camara. To date, nine biological control agents have been intentionally introduced to control eight weed species. Seven of these agents have established on their respective hosts while an eighth, Zygogramma bicolorata, an agent for Parthenium hysterophorus has only recently been released and establishment is unlikely. The fate of a ninth agent, Heteropsylla spinulosa, released for the control of Mimosa diplotricha is unclear. Six other biological control agents, including Epiblema strenuana which was first detected in 2014 on P. hysterophorus on Efate have spread into the country unintentionally. Control of the target weeds range from inadequate to very good. By far the most successful agent has been Calligrapha pantherina which was introduced to control Sida acuta and Sida rhombifolia. The beetle was released on 14 islands and managed to spread to at least another 10 islands where it has effectively controlled both Sida spp. Control of the two water weeds, Eichhornia crassipes by Neochetina bruchi and N. eichhorniae and Pistia stratiotes by Neohydronomus affinis, has also been fairly good in most areas. Two agents, T. scrupulosa and Uroplata girardi, were released on L. camara, and four other agents have been found on the weed, but L. camara is still not under adequate control. The rust Puccinia spegazzinii was first released on Mikania micrantha in 2012 and successfully established. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it is having an impact on M. micrantha, but detailed monitoring is required to determine its overall impact. Future prospects for weed biological control in Vanuatu are positive, with the expected greater spread of recently released agents and the introduction of new agents for P. hysterophorus, L. camara, Dolichandra unguis-cati and Spathodea campanulata.
["biological control"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions", "Chemical synthesis and alkaloids"]

Collapse of a reproducing population of non-native African jewelfish (Hemichromis letourneuxi) in a Florida lake
Established populations of non-natives may collapse without a clear causal mechanism. Hypothetically, fluctuations in habitat structural complexity may influence dynamics of invaders and the biotic resistance offered by predators. Herein I report observations of the collapse of a reproducing population of the non-native African jewelfish (Hemichromis letourneuxi) in a Florida lake concurrent with an unusual low-water period. I test the hypothesis that predation may have played a key role in the collapse using a combination of field surveys of habitat and fish abundance and predator-prey experiments. Habitat complexity was high before and after the low water period but virtually nonexistent during low water. The abundance of African jewelfish and native juvenile bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) and eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) declined concurrently with decreasing complexity but the native species rebounded when lake levels increased. Large-bodied natives such as largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and adult bluegill showed no pattern of fluctuation related to habitat complexity. African jewelfish survival was 1.6 times greater at high versus low complexity and over 7 times higher versus no complexity in the presence of largemouth bass. Conversely, eastern mosquitofish, a species that exerts strong effects on small-bodied fishes in structurally complex habitats had no effect on African jewelfish survival. Predation effects on susceptible non-natives should be considered as a potential control action. Population collapse is understudied but may provide insights into long-term dynamics of invaders and information useful for management of problematic species.
["Population collapse"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

The influence of mowing regime on the soil seed bank of the invasive plant Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.
Ambrosia artemisiifolia
is an invasive annual herb infamous for the high allergenicity of its pollen, which is related to increasing medical costs. Additionally, it can cause serious yield losses as agricultural weed. Common ragweed seeds accumulate in the soil and can remain therein viable for decades, which poses a problem for the sustainable management of these populations. A long term management should thus target a reduction of the soil seed bank. We observed the influence of four different mowing regimes on the ragweed soil seed bank at six roadside populations in eastern Austria. The mowing regimes were based on methods from common roadside management practice and specifically adapted to reduce seed production. After three years of application, the soil seed bank was indeed reduced by 45 to 80 percent through three of the four mowing regimes tested. Therefore, we suggest that the best mowing regime for the most effective reduction of the size of the soil seed bank is the one consisting of one cut just after the beginning of female flowering (around the 3rd week of August in Eastern Central Europe), followed by a second cut 2–3 weeks later.
["Common ragweed"]
["Weed Control and Herbicide Applications", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions"]

Distribution and abundance of exotic earthworms within a boreal forest system in southcentral Alaska
Little is known about exotic earthworms (Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae) in Alaska outside its southeastern panhandle. This study documents the distribution of exotic earthworms in the relatively undisturbed Kenai National Wildlife Refuge (KNWR), a large, primarily wilderness refuge in southcentral Alaska. We sampled 69 sites near boat launches, along road corridors, and in low human impact areas > 5 km from the road, finding three species of earthworms (Dendrobaena octaedra, Dendrodrilus rubidus, and Lumbricus terrestris). Most road sites (90%) and boat launches (80%) contained earthworms; half (50%) of low human impact sites contained earthworms. Distance to roads was the only significant factor in predicting earthworm occurrence; soil pH, soil moisture, leaf litter depth, and vegetation cover were not. The disparate distributions of these three species suggest that within the KNWR road construction and vehicle traffic played a role in dispersal of the widespread, abundant Dendrobaena octaedra and uncommon Dendrodrilus rubidus;﻿ bait abandonment appeared to be the primary method of introduction of Lumbricus terrestris. While the distribution of harmful anecic earthworms in KNWR is currently limited, the prohibition of Lumbricus spp. as bait within conservation units in Alaska may be warranted.
["Lumbricidae"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Site-specific temporal and spatial validation of a generic plant pest forecast system with observations of Bactrocera dorsalis (oriental fruit fly)
This study introduces a simple generic model, the Generic Pest Forecast System (GPFS), for simulating the relative populations of non-indigenous arthropod pests in space and time. The model was designed to calculate the population index or relative population using hourly weather data as influenced by developmental rate, high and low temperature mortalities and wet soil moisture mortality. Each module contains biological parameters derived from controlled experiments. The hourly weather data used for the model inputs were obtained from the National Center of Environmental Prediction Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (NCEP-CFSR) at a 38 km spatial resolution. A combination of spatial and site-specific temporal data was used to validate the GPFS models. The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), was selected as a case study for this research because it is climatically driven and a major pest of fruit production. Results from the GPFS model were compared with field B. dorsalis survey data in three locations: 1) Bangalore, India; 2) Hawaii, USA; and 3) Wuhan, China. The GPFS captured the initial outbreaks and major population peaks of B. dorsalis reasonably well, although agreement varied between sites. An index of agreement test indicated that GPFS model simulations matched with field B. dorsalis observation data with a range between 0.50 and 0.94 (1.0 as a perfect match). Of the three locations, Wuhan showed the highest match between the observed and simulated B. dorsalis populations, with indices of agreement of 0.85. The site-specific temporal comparisons implied that the GPFS model is informative for prediction of relative abundance. Spatial results from the GPFS model were also compared with 161 published observations of B. dorsalis distribution, mostly from East Asia. Since parameters for pupal overwintering and survival were unknown from the literature, these were inferred from the distribution data. The study showed that GPFS has promise for estimating suitable areas for B. dorsalis establishment and potentially other non-indigenous pests. It is concluded that calibrating prediction models with both spatial and site-specific temporal data may provide more robust and reliable results than validations with either data set alone.
["Risk analysis"]

On the origin of South American populations of the common house gecko (Gekkonidae: Hemidactylus frenatus)
Hemidactylus frenatus is an Asian gecko species that has invaded many tropical regions to become one of the most widespread lizards worldwide. This species has dispersed across the Pacific Ocean to reach Hawaii and subsequently Mexico and other Central American countries. More recently, it has been reported from northwestern South America. Using 12S and cytb mitochondrial DNA sequences I found that South American and Galápagos haplotypes are identical to those from Hawaii and Papua New Guinea, suggesting a common Melanesian origin for both Hawaii and South America. Literature records suggest that H. frenatus arrived in Colombia around the mid-‘90s, dispersed south into Ecuador in less than five years, and arrived in the Galápagos about one decade later.

First record of Aequorea macrodactyla (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa) from the Israeli coast of the eastern Mediterranean Sea, an alien species indicating invasive pathways
The species of Aequorea attract much scientific interest as they contain the unique Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). In this work we describe for the first time the discovery of a hydrozoan jellyfish belonging to the genus Aequorea from the Israeli eastern Mediterranean that contains and exhibits fluorescent protein. Finding Aequorea macrodactyla (Brandt, 1835) in the eastern Mediterranean indicates that changes are occurring in the gelatinous fauna of this area. This hydromedusa is known in the seas adjoining the Mediterranean though most of its records are more than four decades old. We examined and identified the newly discovered Israeli Aequorea species by combining two phylogenetic systems, traditional morphological phylogeny and molecular phylogenetics. The molecular identification determined that the species is A. macrodactyla but with minor genetic differences in the mtDNA 16S gene marker. A 1% difference between the Israeli and the Japanese A. macrodactyla was demonstrated, which suggests that the genetic difference between the Israeli and the Japanese population is small but existent. Invasive pathways for this jellyfish were examined by phylogenetic and taxonomic relationships with similar Cnidaria. The results indicate introduction from the Indo-Pacific as invasive pathway, probably by human transportation, and the discovery of A. macrodactyla in the eastern Mediterranean Sea could be interpreted as part of the changes in marine biota as a result of cumulative effects of anthropogenic and global changes that affect the eastern Mediterranean basin.
["Aequorea macrodactyla"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Leech Biology and Applications"]

Trade patterns of the tree nursery industry in Europe and changes following findings of citrus longhorn beetle, Anoplophora chinensis Forster
The trade in plants for planting is a major pathway for the introduction and further spread of alien plants, pests and diseases. Information about the structure of plant trade networks is not generally available, but it is valuable for better assessing the potential risks associated with the trade in live plants and the development of prevention and mitigation measures and policy. The discovery of two larvae of Anoplophora chinensis (citrus longhorn beetle – CLB) in 2009, at a nursery importing Acer palmatum from China in one of the major Dutch tree nursery areas, has resulted in the creation of a detailed dataset on the intra-European Union trade in its potential hosts. This study describes European imports of the primary host of A. chinensis, Acer spp., into the Netherlands (1998-2012) and the effects of the finding in a tree nursery area. In addition, shipments of Acer spp. from 138 producers in the nursery area in 2009 were analysed in a one-off analysis of intra-EU trade. The volume of Acer spp. imports from Asia was stable early during the studied period, and declined to 5% of the initial imports after a period of interceptions, illustrating the effect of regulations. The number of notifications of A. chinensis infestations in imported consignments of Acer spp. increased sharply in the years up to 2007, then declined as imports also reduced. Although plants were shipped to destinations throughout Europe, each producer shipped plants only to few destinations in few countries. Most of the plants were shipped to nurseries in EU countries. These patterns could make it easier to target these high risk destinations for control measures. The lack of transaction records makes it difficult to trace the destination of plants. More systematic electronic record keeping by traders and growers and the data being collated in a database that can be made available to regulatory authorities, together with further studies of plant trade data using network approaches, would be beneficial for improving trace-back and trace-forward and provide better safeguards for plant health and quality.
["Citrus longhorn beetle (Anoplophora chinensis Forster)"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

The thin green line: sustainable bioenergy feedstocks or invaders in waiting
Numerous fast growing and highly competitive exotic crops are being selected for production of renewable bioenergy. Tolerance of poor growing conditions with minimal inputs are ideal characteristics for bioenergy feedstocks, but have attracted concern for their potential to become invasive. Miscanthus × giganteus is one of the most promising bioenergy crops in the US, but grower adoption is hindered by high establishment costs due to sterility. Newly developed fertile tetraploid M. × giganteus may streamline cultivation while reducing establishment costs. However, fertile seed dramatically increases the potential propagule pressure, and thus probability of off-site plant establishment. To empirically evaluate the invasive potential of fertile M. × giganteus in the Southeastern US, we compared fitness and spread potential relative to ten grass species comprising 19 accessions under both high and low levels of competition and disturbance. We chose species known to be invasive in the US (positive controls: Arundo donax, naturalized M. sinensis, M. sacchariflorus, Phalaris arundinacea, Sorghum halepense) and non-invasive (negative controls; Andropogon gerardii, ornamental M. sinensis, Panicum virgatum, Sorghum bicolor, Saccharum spp.). This novel design allows us to make relative comparisons of risk among species with varying invasiveness. After three years of establishment and growth in Blacksburg, Virginia, neither aboveground disturbance nor interspecific weed competition influenced fitness for fertile M. × giganteus or our positive and negative control groups. Fertile M. × giganteus produced 346% and 283% greater aboveground biomass than our positive and negative species, respectively. However, fertile M. × giganteus produced 74% fewer inflorescences m-2 than our positive controls and 7% and 51% fewer spikelets inflorescence-1 than the positive and negative control species. After 18 months of growth, we observed the vegetative and seedling spread of three of our positive control species (S. halepense, P. arundinacea, and M. sacchariflorus) outside the cultivated plot into receiving areas of both high and low competition. After 24 months of growth, numerous species were observed outside the cultivated plot including fertile M. × giganteus and 50% of negative control species. Notably, in three years sterile M. × giganteus ‘Illinois’ and Arundo donax never moved from the cultivated plot. The addition of fertile seed appears to increase the potential for offsite movement, but within the geographic confines of our empirical evaluation, fertile M. × giganteus seedlings are more similar to native P. virgatum and were not nearly as fast growing or as competitive as our positive control S. halepense. The use of numerous species providing relative comparisons allow us to draw important conclusions which may help prepare for widespread commercialization, while providing novel methodology for ecological risk assessment of new species.
["Biofuel"]
["Bioenergy crop production and management", "Biofuel production and bioconversion", "Forest Management and Policy"]

Comparing functional similarity between a native and an alien slug in temperate rain forests of British Columbia
The impacts of invasive alien species are greatest when they become dominant members of a community, introduce novel traits, and displace native species. Invasions by alien mollusks represent a novel context by which to compare trait differences between generalist native and introduced herbivores in terrestrial ecosystems. Here, we determined the abundance, habitat, feeding preferences, as well as the metabolic rate of the native Pacific banana slug (Ariolimax columbianus) and the alien black slug (Arion rufus) in the coastal forests of British Columbia, Canada. Through a series of observational and experimental studies, we found that alien slugs are more abundant, differ in their habitat preferences, and consumed more fungi (mushrooms) than native banana slugs. Conversely, in an enclosures experiment we found that herbivory damage by native slugs was higher compared to enclosures with alien only and control enclosures. Finally, metabolic rates were similar for both slug species. These results suggest that alien black slugs possess a suite of traits that make them functionally different from native banana slugs.
["European black slug"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

A biography of an invasive terrestrial slug: the spread, distribution and habitat of Deroceras invadens
The article reviews distribution records of Deroceras invadens (previously called D. panormitanum and D. caruanae), adding significant unpublished records from the authors’ own collecting, museum samples, and interceptions on goods arriving in the U.S.A. By 1940 D. invadens had already arrived in Britain, Denmark, California, Australia and probably New Zealand; it has turned up in many further places since, including remote oceanic islands, but scarcely around the eastern Mediterranean (Egypt and Crete are the exceptions), nor in Asia. Throughout much of the Americas its presence seems to have been previously overlooked, probably often being mistaken for D. laeve. New national records include Mexico, Costa Rica, and Ecuador, with evidence from interceptions of its presence in Panama, Peru, and Kenya. The range appears limited by cold winters and dry summers; this would explain why its intrusion into eastern Europe and southern Spain has been rather slow and incomplete. At a finer geographic scale, the occurrence of the congener D. reticulatum provides a convenient comparison to control for sampling effort; D. invadens is often about half as frequently encountered and sometimes predominates. Deroceras invadens is most commonly found in synanthropic habitats, particularly gardens and under rubbish, but also in greenhouses, and sometimes arable land and pasture. It may spread into natural habitats, as in Britain, South Africa, Australia and Tenerife. Many identifications have been checked in the light of recent taxonomic revision, revealing that the sibling species D. panormitanum s.s. has spread much less extensively. A number of published or online records, especially in Australia, have turned out to be misidentifications of D. laeve.
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Invasion of yellow crazy ant Anoplolepis gracilipes in a Seychelles UNESCO palm forest
The mature palm forest of the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the Seychelles island of Praslin, is a unique ecosystem containing many endemic species, including the iconic coco de mer palm Lodoicea maldivica. In 2009, the invasive yellow crazy ant Anoplolepis gracilipes was recorded for the first time within the palm forest, raising concern about its potential impacts on the endemic fauna. This research aimed: (1) to assess the current distribution and spread of A. gracilipes within the palm forest; (2) to identify environmental variables that are linked to A. gracilipes distribution; and (3) to compare endemic species richness and abundance in A. gracilipes invaded and uninvaded areas. Anoplolepis gracilipes was confined to the north-east of the site and remained almost stationary between April 2010 and December 2012, with isolated outbreaks into the forest. Infested areas had significantly higher temperature and humidity and lower canopy cover. Abundance and species richness of the endemic arboreal fauna were lower in the A. gracilipes invaded area. Molluscs were absent from the invaded area. The current restricted distribution of A. gracilipes in this ecosystem, combined with lower abundance of endemic fauna in the invaded area, highlight the need for further research to assess control measures and the possible role of biotic resistance to the invasion of the palm forest by A. gracilipes.
["Endemic arboreal species"]

Colonization of Brazil by the cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) revealed by mitochondrial DNA
The cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) has recently colonized Brazil. This process offers an excellent opportunity for the study of colonization and dispersal patterns across extensive areas by non-native birds. The aims of the present investigation were a) to determine the genetic diversity of the cattle egret in Brazil and Africa, b) evaluate genetic differentiation between populations in different regions of Brazil and Africa, and c) detect genetic signs of demographic expansion in these two areas. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Control Region (CR) sequences were obtained from 112 cattle egrets in four Brazilian and four African (Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria) populations. Genetic diversity (H, h, θs) and population structure (AMOVA, Fst) were assessed and the populations were tested for signs of recent demographic expansion. A total of 35 haplotypes were found: 22 exclusive to Africa, 10 exclusive to Brazil and three shared by both samples. The degree of genetic diversity, determined by mtDNA analysis, was similar between Brazil and Africa, demonstrating that the successful colonization of the non-native area occurred with no significant loss of diversity. The pairwise Fst values among the Brazilian and African populations were all significantly different. The population in southern Brazilian exhibited the lowest degree of differentiation with respect to the African population, followed by the southeastern and northeastern populations of the country. The genetic differentiation data suggest that the colonization of Brazil by the cattle egret began in the southern region and expanded to the southeastern and northeastern regions of the country. This genetic differentiation pattern is in accordance with the higher number of cattle per grazing area in southern Brazil, which may have favored the onset of the successful establishment of the species. The findings indicate that mtDNA genetic diversity was retained during the colonization process and colonization began in the southern region of the country. Moreover, signs of demographic expansion were detected in the African sample.
["cattle egret"]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Identification and Quantification in Food", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Condition and morphometric changes in tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) after an eradication attempt in Southern Louisiana
A hybrid form of tilapia was introduced into Port Sulphur, Louisiana and was subsequently managed by treatment with rotenone and stocking of native predatory fishes. Measurements of tilapia from before this management event were compared to measurements of tilapia in the two years after the treatment. Post-management tilapia were consistently deeper in body and had greater weight per unit length (condition) when compared to pre-management fish. Procrustes generalized least squares data supported this by consistently finding post-management tilapia to be consistently deeper in body and head shape than pre-management fish. Although this could indicate the effectiveness of stocking native predators, several other factors, including two cold winters, seasonal effects, and less competition, may have contributed to this result.
["Ivasive"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Marine and fisheries research"]

The effect of insect herbivory on the growth and fitness of introduced Verbascum thapsus L
A majority of the plant species that are introduced into new ranges either do not become established, or become naturalized yet do not attain high densities and are thus considered ecologically and economically unproblematic. The factors that limit these relatively “benign” species are not well studied. The biotic resistance hypothesis predicts that herbivores, pathogens and competition reduce growth and reproduction of individual plants and so suppress population growth of non-native species. We explored the effect of insect herbivory and surrounding vegetation on growth and fitness of the non-native biennial plant Verbascum thapsus (common mullein) in Colorado, USA. Mullein is widespread in its introduced North American range, yet is infrequently considered a management concern because populations are often ephemeral and restricted to disturbed sites. To evaluate the impact of insect herbivores on mullein performance, we reduced herbivory using an insecticide treatment and compared sprayed plants to those exposed to ambient levels of herbivory. Reducing herbivory increased survival from rosette to reproduction by 7%, from 70–77%. Of plants that survived, reducing herbivory increased plant area in the first year and plant height, the length of the reproductive spike, and seed set during the second year. Reducing herbivory also had a marked effect on plant fitness, increasing seed set by 50%, from about 48,000 seeds per plant under ambient herbivory to about 98,000 per plant under reduced herbivory. Our findings also highlight that the relationship between herbivory and performance is complex. Among plants exposed to ambient herbivory, we observed a positive relationship between damage and performance, suggesting that, as predicted by the plant vigor hypothesis, insect herbivores choose the largest plants for feeding when their choice is not restricted by insecticide treatment. In contrast to the strong effects of experimentally reduced herbivory, we found that cover of other plants surrounding our focal plants explained relatively little variation in performance outcomes. Overall, we found that herbivore-induced impacts on individual plant performance and seed set are substantial, and thus may help prevent this naturalized species from becoming dominant in undisturbed recipient communities.
["Biotic resistance"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Matching methods to produce maps for pest risk analysis to resources
Decision support systems (DSSs) for pest risk mapping are invaluable for guiding pest risk analysts seeking to add maps to pest risk analyses (PRAs). Maps can help identify the area of potential establishment, the area at highest risk and the endangered area for alien plant pests. However, the production of detailed pest risk maps may require considerable time and resources and it is important to match the methods employed to the priority, time and detail required. In this paper, we apply PRATIQUE DSSs to Phytophthora austrocedrae, a pathogen of the Cupressaceae, Thaumetopoea pityocampa, the pine processionary moth, Drosophila suzukii, spotted wing Drosophila, and Thaumatotibia leucotreta, the false codling moth. We demonstrate that complex pest risk maps are not always a high priority and suggest that simple methods may be used to determine the geographic variation in relative risks posed by invasive alien species within an area of concern.
["Pest risk mapping"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Can Daphnia lumholtzi invade European lakes?
The cladoceran Daphnia lumholtzi is a subtropical and tropical zooplankter, and an invasive species in North America. Thus far, D. lumholtzi has not been detected in Europe. Here we investigated whether a hypothetical introduction to Europe could result in a successful invasion, either now or in the near future when facilitated by climate change. In laboratory experiments, we tested whether different clones of D. lumholtzi can invade a resident community consisting of native Daphnia from lake Klostersee, Germany, and how invasion success depends on temperature and the presence or absence of planktivorous fish. In some treatments, invasion success was consistently high, and D. lumholtzi reached densities similar to the native competitors by the end of the experiment. The presence of a planktivorous fish reduced the invasion success of D. lumholtzi, and a clone with an inducible defense against fish predation was a more successful invader than a permanently defended clone. Of the three temperatures tested in this study (15, 20, and 24 °C), invasion success was highest at 20 °C. To understand the competitive interaction between native and introduced Daphnia, we fit a Lotka-Volterra-type competition model to the population dynamics. Our experimental and modeling results suggest that D. lumholtzi can invade European lakes and can cause substantial declines in the population size of native Daphnia, with potential consequences for higher trophic levels.
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Stomach contents from invasive American bullfrogs Rana catesbeiana (= Lithobates catesbeianus) on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Invasive alien American bullfrog populations are commonly identified as a pernicious influence on the survival of native species due to their adaptability, proliferation and consequent ecological impacts through competition and predation. However, it has been difficult to determine conclusively their destructive influence due to the fragmentary and geographically dispersed nature of the historical database. An expanding meta-population of invasive American bullfrogs, Rana catesbeiana (= Lithobates catesbeianus), became established on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada in the mid- to late 1980s. An on-going bullfrog control program begun in 2006 offered a unique opportunity to examine the stomach contents removed from 5,075 adult and juvenile bullfrogs collected from 60 sites throughout the active season (April to October). Of 15 classes of organisms identified in the diet, insects were numerically dominant, particularly social wasps and odonates (damselflies and dragonflies). Seasonality and site-specific habitat characteristics influenced prey occurrence and abundance. Native vertebrates in the diet included fish, frogs, salamanders, snakes, lizards, turtles, birds, and mammals, including some of conservation concern. Certain predators of bullfrog tadpoles and juveniles are commonly preyed upon by adult bullfrogs, thereby suppressing their effectiveness as biological checks to bullfrog population growth. Prey species with anti-predator defences, such as wasps and sticklebacks, were sometimes eaten in abundance. Many prey species have some type of anti-predator defence, such as wasp stingers or stickleback spines, but there was no indication of conditioned avoidance to any of these. Results from this study reinforce the conclusion that, as an invasive alien, the American bullfrog is an opportunistic and seemingly unspecialized predator that has a uniquely large and complex ecological footprint both above and below the water surface.
["Bullfrog"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

The exotic invasive plant Vincetoxicum rossicum is a strong competitor even outside its current realized climatic temperature range
Dog-strangling vine (Vincetoxicum rossicum) is an exotic plant originating from Central and Eastern Europe that is becoming increasingly invasive in southern Ontario, Canada. Once established, it successfully displaces local native plant species but mechanisms behind this plant’s high competitive ability are not fully understood. It is unknown whether cooler temperatures will limit the range expansion of V. rossicum, which has demonstrated high tolerance for other environmental variables such as light and soil moisture. Furthermore, if V. rossicum can establish outside its current climatic limit it is unknown whether competition with native species can significantly contribute to reduce fitness and slow down invasion. We conducted an experiment to test the potential of V. rossicum to spread into northern areas of Ontario using a set of growth chambers to simulate southern and northern Ontario climatic temperature regimes. We also tested plant-plant competition by growing V. rossicum in pots with a highly abundant native species, Solidago canadensis, and comparing growth responses to plants grown alone. We found that the fitness of V. rossicum was not affected by the cooler climate despite a delay in reproductive phenology. Growing V. rossicum with S. canadensis caused a significant reduction in seedpod biomass of V. rossicum. However, we did not detect a temperature x competition interaction in spite of evidence for adaptation of S. canadensis to cooler temperature conditions. We conclude that the spread of V. rossicum north within the tested range is unlikely to be limited by climatic temperature but competition with an abundant native species may contribute to slow it down.
["Dog-Strangling Vine"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Sources and modes of action of invasive knotweed allelopathy: the effects of leaf litter and trained soil
on the germination and growth of native plants
Invasive knotweeds, native to Eastern Asia, are among the most dominant plant invaders of European and North American temperate ecosystems. Recent studies indicate that one cause of this dominance might be allelopathy, but the possible sources and modes of action of this allelopathy are insufficiently understood. Here, we asked whether the invasive knotweed Fallopia × bohemica can exert allelopathic effects on native plants also through its leaf litter, or through persistent soil contaminants, and whether these affect the germination or growth of native plants. In a germination experiment with nine native species neither litter leachate, an aqueous extract of knotweed leaves added to the soil, nor trained soil with a history of Fallopia pre-cultivation suppressed the germination or early growth of natives. A mesocosm study with experimental native communities showed that the presence of F. × bohemica, although not a dominant in these communities, caused significant shifts of life-history strategy in two dominant natives, and that similar effects could be elicited through litter leachates or trained soil alone. However, there were hardly any effects on the biomass of natives. Our study indicates that knotweed allelopathy acts on the growth rather than germination of natives, and that soil contamination through persistent allelochemicals may not be a significant problem in habitat restoration. It also shows that allelopathic effects can sometimes be subtle changes in life-history and allocation patterns of the affected species.
["Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

Modelling the distribution of the invasive Roesel’s bush-cricket (Metrioptera roeselii) in a fragmented landscape
The development of conservation strategies to mitigate the impact of invasive species requires knowledge of the species ecology and distribution. This is, however, often lacking as collecting biological data may be both time-consuming and resource intensive. Species distribution models can offer a solution to this dilemma by analysing the species-environment relationship with help of Geographic information systems (GIS). In this study, we model the distribution of the non-native bush-cricket Metrioptera roeselii in the agricultural landscape in mid-Sweden where the species has been rapidly expanding in its range since the 1990s. We extract ecologically relevant landscape variables from Swedish CORINE land-cover maps and use species presence-absence data from large-scale surveys to construct a species distribution model (SDM). The aim of the study is to increase the knowledge of the species range expansion pattern by examining how its distribution is affected by landscape composition and structure, and to evaluate SDM performance at two different spatial scales. We found that models including data on a scale of 1 × 1 km were able to explain more of the variation in species distribution than those on the local scale (10 m buffer on each side of surveyed road). The amount of grassland in the landscape, estimated from the area of arable land, pasture and rural settlements, was a good predictor of the presence of the species on both scales. The measurements of landscape structure – linear elements and fragmentation - gave ambivalent results which differed from previous small scaled studies on species dispersal behaviour and occupancy patterns. The models had good predictive ability and showed that areas dominated by agricultural fields and their associated grassland edges have a high probability being colonised by the species. Our study identified important landscape variables that explain the distribution of M. roeselii in Mid-Sweden that may also be important to other range expanding orthopteran species. This work will serve as a foundation for future analyses of species spread and ecological processes during range expansion.
["Orthoptera"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Ploidy levels and reproductive behaviour in invasive Hieracium pilosella in Patagonia
Within a population of invasive Hieracium pilosella in Chilean Patagonia we found two ploidy levels, pentaploid and hexaploid. Each ploidy level was represented by one clone. Their reproductive system was apomictic (and thus replicating the maternal genome), with a low degree of residual sexuality. It is necessary to prevent the evolution of new biotypes via hybridisation with different clones of H. pilosella or other Hieracium species introduced into Patagonia.
["Hieracium pilosella"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

Potential phytotoxic and shading effects of invasive Fallopia (Polygonaceae) taxa on the germination of native dominant species
Two species of knotweeds (genus Fallopia, Polygonaceae), native to Asia (Fallopia sachalinensis, F. japonica) and their hybrid (F. ×bohemica) belong to the most noxious plant invaders in Europe and exert a high impact on invaded plant communities that are therefore typically extremely poor in species. The remarkable paucity of invaded communities points to the possible existence of mechanisms suppressing germinating populations of native species in invaded stands. In this pilot study we assessed, under laboratory conditions, whether there are phytotoxic effects of the three Fallopia congeners on seed germination of three target species: two native species commonly growing in habitats that are often invaded by knotweeds (Urtica dioica, Calamagrostis epigejos), and Lepidium sativum, a species commonly used in allelopathic bioassay as a control. Since knotweeds generally form stands with a high cover, we included varying light conditions as an additional factor, to simulate the effects on germination of shading by leaf canopy. The effects of aqueous extracts (2.5, 5.0%, and 0% as a control) from dry leaves and rhizomes of the Fallopia congeners on germination of the target species were thus studied under two light regimes, simulating full daylight (white light) and light filtered through canopy (green light), and in dark as a control regime. Rhizome extracts did not affect germination. Light treatments yielded inconclusive results, indicating that poor germination and establishment of species in invaded stands is unlikely to be caused by shading alone, but we found a pronounced phytotoxic effect of leaf extracts of Fallopia taxa, more so at 5.0% than 2.5% extract concentration. Fallopia sachalinensis exerted the largest negative effect on the germination of Urtica dioica, F. ×bohemica on that of C.epigejos, and F. japonica had invariably the lowest inhibitory effect. In the field in Central Europe, F. sachalinensis often invades less disturbed, moist riparian-like habitats where it often encounters U. dioica populations, while F. ×bohemica tends to occur more often in ruderal sites with a high representation of C. epigejos; this might imply that each of the knotweed species exhibits a stronger effect on native species that are dominant in habitats they typically invade. The weakest phytotoxic effect of F. japonica corresponds to the results of previous studies that found this species to be generally a weaker competitor than its two congeners. Although the results of our experiments cannot be taken as a direct evidence for allelopathic effects acting in the field, the demonstrated potential phytotoxic effect of invasive Fallopia species on the germination of native species suggests that allelopathy may play a role in the strong impact of knotweed invasion on species diversity of invaded communities observed in the field.
["allelopathy"]
["Allelopathy and phytotoxic interactions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Taxonomy, palynology and distribution notes of seven species of Passiflora L. (Passifloraceae s.s.) newly recorded from Brazil
Passiflora subgenus Astrophea is one of the five recognised subgenera of Passiflora. Brazil presents ca. 26 species of this subgenus with the majority distributed in the Amazon Basin. During the ongoing taxonomic revision of the Brazilian species of subg. Astrophea, seven species previously unknown for the country were recorded: Passiflora amoena, P. fuchsiiflora, P. jussieui, P. ovata, P. plumosa, P. quelchii, and P. tessmannii. The new records expand the species distribution ranges, especially for P. plumosa, which was exclusively known from its type locality and P. quelchii, which was known only for southeastern Guyana. The authors provide taxonomic and palynological descriptions, distribution maps and illustrations for these species, in the hope that the knowledge and understanding of Brazilian Passifloraceae s.s. will be improved.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Banana Cultivation and Research"]

Lithocarpus vuquangensis (Fagaceae), a new species from Vu Quang National Park, Vietnam
Lithocarpus vuquangensis Ngoc & Hung is described from Vu Quang National Park, North Central Vietnam. The morphological comparison and phylogenetic analysis based on rbcL, matK and ITS provided evidence that the new species was not assignable to any of the previously known taxa in Vietnam and its surrounding countries. The description, photographs, preliminary conservation status and DNA barcode sequences are also provided for the new species.
["Fagaceae"]

Lobelia hongiana (Campanulaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Lobelia hongiana, a new species of Campanulaceae from Guangxi, South China, is described and illustrated here. This new species is most similar to L. chinensis and L. loochooensis, but differs by its elliptic-obovate or oblanceolate leaf, 2.5–3 mm long greenish-carmine hypanthium, 5 or 6 calyx lobes, purplish-white corolla, with yellowish-green blotches at the base of lower lobes, glabrous filaments, 7–8 mm long broadly obconic capsule. Molecular phylogenetic analysis has been conducted based on ITS and two chloroplast sequences (atpB and rbcL) and 14 taxa in Lobelia are included. L. hongiana is well supported as a new species by the evidence from both morphology and molecular phylogeny.
["Hypsela"]

Hedychium putaoense (Zingiberaceae), a new species from Putao, Kachin State, Northern Myanmar
Hedychium putaoense Y.H. Tan & H.B. Ding, a new species of Zingiberaceae from Putao, Kachin state, Northern Myanmar, is described and illustrated. It is similar to H. densiflorum Wall. and H. longipedunculatum A.R.K. Sastry & D.M. Verma, but differs by its very small bract (4–6 × 2.5–3 mm vs. 18–19 × 5–5.5 mm and ca. 11 × 7 mm, respectively), semicircle and dark red bracteole, orange flower and broadly falcate to lanceolate lateral staminodes.
["Hedychium"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies"]

Two new species of Trivalvaria (Annonaceae) from northern Myanmar
Trivalvaria rubra and Trivalvaria casseabriae, two new species of Annonaceae from Putao, Kachin State, Myanmar, are here described and illustrated. They are morphologically similar to T. costata and T. macrophylla. The major differences between them are outlined and discussed. A diagnostic key to the species of Trivalvaria is provided.
["Kachin state"]

Two new species of Oreocharis (Gesneriaceae) from Fan Si Pan, the highest mountain in Vietnam
Two new species of Oreocharis Benth. from Fan Si Pan, the highest mountain in Vietnam (Sa Pa) are described and illustrated. Oreocharis grandiflora W.H.Chen, Q.H.Nguyen & Y.M.Shui, is similar to O. flavida Merr. from Hainan province, China, but differs mainly by its larger and infundibuliform corolla, stamens adnate to the base of the corolla tube and stamens coherent in two pairs. The second, Oreocharis longituba W.H.Chen, Q.H.Nguyen & Y.M.Shui, is similar to O. hirsuta Barnett, endemic to northern Thailand, but mainly differs in its pubescence, coherent stamens and glabrous filaments.
["Biogeographical affinis"]

Aristolochia sinoburmanica (Aristolochiaceae), a new species from north Myanmar
Aristolochia sinoburmanica Y.H.Tan & B.Yang, a new species of Aristolochiaceae from Putao, Kachin State, Myanmar, is described and illustrated. According to morphology (strongly curved perianth, 3-lobed limb, as well as 3-lobed gynostemium, anthers 6, adnate in 3 pairs to the base of gynostemium, opposite to the lobes), the species belongs to Aristolochia subgenus Siphisia. It is morphologically similar to A. faviogonzalezii, A. hainanensis, A. tonkinensis, A. saccata and A. xuanlienensis. The major differences between them are outlined and discussed. A detailed description, along with line drawings, photographs, habitat, distribution and conservation status, as well as a comparison to morphologically similar species, are also provided.
["Kachin state"]
["Nephrotoxicity and Medicinal Plants", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Rediscovery and amended descriptions of Begonia kingdon-wardii (Begoniaceae) from North Myanmar
Begonia kingdon-wardii Tebbitt was rediscovered in 2014 from Myanmar after 67 years based on its last collection in 1937. Its previously unknown female flower and inaccurate morphology of leaf and ovary have been additionally described. This species belongs to Begonia sect. Sphenanthera (Hassk.) Warb. due to its dioecious habit, 3-locular ovary, berry fruits and thick placenta segments. Morphologically, it is similar to Begonia gulinqingensis S. H. Huang & Y. M. Shui in the leaf shape, placentation and fruit shape, but different in its dioecious plants, pliciform leaves, two-petalled female flowers and berry fruits. The rediscovery of this amazing living species will attract significant interest for scientific research and horticultural application.

Premna grandipaniculata (Lamiaceae, Premnoideae), a remarkable new species from north Myanmar
A remarkable new Premna species from Myanmar, P. grandipaniculata Y.H.Tan & Bo Li (Lamiaceae), is here described and illustrated. It differs from all known congeneric taxa by having huge complicated panicles which have tertiary branches formed by spike-like thyrses. In Premna, such a spike-like thyrse is found in P. bracteata and P. interrupta, but those species can be easily distinguished from P. grandipaniculata by their habit, indumentum, leaf size and inflorescence structure.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Primulina malipoensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Sino-Vietnamese border area
Primulina malipoensis, a new species from limestone areas around the Sino-Vietnamese border, is described and illustrated. This new species is morphologically similar to P. maguanensis and P. lungzhouensis, but obviously differs from the latter two species by its pale greenish-yellow flowers (vs. purple, with different colour patterns). The phylogenetic affinity, illustration and photographs of this new species are provided in this paper.
["Limestone flora"]

Seven new species of Begonia (Begoniaceae) in Northern Vietnam and Southern China
Since 2016, KIB (Kunming Institute of Botany) and CPC (Centre for Plant Conservation of Vietnam) have conducted several surveys in the transboundary karst regions in Northern Vietnam and Southern China and seven new species in the genus Begonia Linn. (Begoniaceae) are firstly described. Amongst them, two species, Begonia albopunctata Y.M. Shui, W.H. Chen & H.Q. Nguyen and B. erectocarpa H.Q. Nguyen, Y.M. Shui & W.H. Chen, respectively belong to section Sphenanthera with berry fruits and section Leprosae with clavate berry fruits; four species, B. gulongshanensis Y.M. Shui & W. H. Chen, B. minissima H.Q. Nguyen, Y.M. Shui & W.H. Chen, B. mollissima Y.M. Shui, H.Q. Nguyen & W.H. Chen, B. rhytidophylla Y.M. Shui & W.H. Chen, belong to section Coelocentrum with parietal placentation; one species, Begonia bambusetorum H.Q. Nguyen, Y.M. Shui & W.H. Chen, belongs to section Diploclinium with 3-loculed ovary and capsules. The diagnostic characters of these species are described and illustrated in the text and photographs.

Didymocarpus puhoatensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Vietnam
Didymocarpus puhoatensis, a new species from Vietnam is described and illustrated with photographs. The new species is morphologically similar to D. brevicalyx and D. epithemoides, but can be easily distinguished by a combination of characters. So far, five species have been recorded in the genus Didymocarpus from Vietnam.
["Didymocarpus"]

Monograph of Diplachne (Poaceae, Chloridoideae, Cynodonteae)
Diplachne P. Beauv. comprises two species with C4 (NAD-ME) photosynthesis. Diplachne fusca has a nearly pantropical-pantemperate distribution with four subspecies: D. fusca subsp. fusca is Paleotropical with native distributions in Africa, southern Asia and Australia; the widespread Australian endemic D. f. subsp. muelleri; and D. f. subsp. fascicularis and D. f. subsp. uninervia occurring in the New World. Diplachne gigantea is known from a few widely scattered, older collections in east-central and southern Africa, and although Data Deficient clearly is of conservation concern. A discussion of previous taxonomic treatments is provided, including molecular data supporting Diplachne in its newer, restricted sense. Many populations of Diplachne fusca are highly tolerant of saline substrates and most prefer seasonally moist to saturated soils, often in disturbed areas. Some populations of Diplachne fusca in southern Asia combine nitrogen-fixation, high salinity tolerance and palatibilty to livestock, which should be pursued with further research for purposes of soil reclamation. Diplachne fusca subsp. uninervia is the most invasive of the subspecies and is becoming weedy in some non-native areas, including in the Old World. This monograph provides detailed descriptions of all taxa, a key to the species and subspecies, geographic distributions and information on the anatomy of leaves, stems, lemmatal micromorphology and discussions of the chromosome numbers. Lectotypes are designated for: Atropis carinata Grisb.; Diplachne acuminata Nash; Diplachne capensis (Nees) Nees var. concinna Nees; Diplachne capensis (Nees) Nees var. obscura Nees, Diplachne capensis (Nees) Nees var. prolifera subvar. minor Nees, Diplachne halei Nash, Diplachne maritima E.P. Bicknel, Diplachne muelleri Benth., Diplachne reverchonii Vasey, Diplachne tectoneticola Backer, Leptochloa imbricata Thurb., Leptochloa neuroglossa Peter, Leptochloa uninervia var. typica fo. abbreviata Parodi, Triodia ambigua R. Br. and Triodia parviflora R. Br.
["Azoarcus"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Pasture and Agricultural Systems"]

Taxonomic revision of Pachyptera (Bignonieae, Bignoniaceae)
Pachyptera DC. is a small genus of neotropical lianas included in tribe Bignonieae (Bignoniaceae). The genus has a complicated taxonomic history but currently includes species distributed from Belize to Southern Amazon. Pachyptera is characterised by four main synapomorphies, namely, a papery peeling bark, prophylls of the axillary buds organised in a series of three, patelliform glands arranged in lines in the upper portions of the calyx and corolla tube. Furthermore, members of the genus also have stems with four phloem wedges in cross-section and conspicuous extrafloral nectaries between the interpetiolar region and at the petiole apex, although these characters are also shared with other genera of tribe Bignonieae. Here, we present a taxonomic revision of Pachyptera, which includes a complete list of synonyms, detailed morphological descriptions of species and an identification key, as well as information on the habitat, distribution and phenology, nomenclatural notes, taxonomic comments and illustrations of all the species. In addition, we designate three lectotypes, propose one new combination, raise one variety to species status and describe a new species. After these adjustments, a Pachyptera with five well-defined species is recognised.

Diagnostics, taxonomy, nomenclature and distribution of perennial Sesuvium (Aizoaceae) in Africa
The taxonomy of perennial Sesuvium species in Africa has been poorly investigated until now. Previously five perennial species of Sesuvium were recognised in Africa (S. congense, S. crithmoides, S. mesembryanthemoides, S. portulacastrum, and S. sesuvioides). Based on the differing number of stamens, S. ayresii is accepted here as being distinct from S. portulacastrum. Field observations in Angola also led the authors to conclude that S. crystallinum and S. mesembryanthemoides are conspecific with S. crithmoides. A new subspecies, Sesuvium portulacastrum subsp. persoonii, is described from West Africa (Cape Verde, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Senegal). The molecular phylogeny indicates the position of S. portulacastrum subsp. persoonii within the “American lineage” as a part of the Sesuvium portulacastrum complex which needs further studies. A diagnostic key and taxonomic notes are provided for the six perennial species of Sesuvium found in Africa and recognised by the authors (S. ayresii, S. congense, S. crithmoides, S. portulacastrum subsp. portulacastrum, S. portulacastrum subsp. persoonii, S. verrucosum and the facultatively short-lived S. sesuvioides). The distribution of S. crithmoides, previously considered to be endemic to Angola, is now confirmed for the seashores of Republic of Congo and DR Congo. The American species S. verrucosum is reported for the first time for Africa (the Macaronesian islands: Cape Verde and the Canaries). It is locally naturalised in Gran Canaria, being a potentially invasive species. These findings as well as new records of S. verrucosum from Asia and the Pacific Islands confirm its proneness to transcontinental introduction. Lectotypes of S. brevifolium, S. crithmoides, S. crystallinum and S. mesembryanthemoides are selected. The seed micromorphology and anatomy of the perennial African species is studied. Compared to the seeds of some annual African Sesuvium investigated earlier, those of perennial species are smooth or slightly alveolate. The aril is one-layered and parenchymatous in all species and usually tightly covers the seed. The aril detachments from the seed coat that form a white stripe near the cotyledon area easily distinguish S. verrucosum from other species under study.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

A new species of Hypodematium (Hypodematiaceae) from China
Hypodematium confertivillosum J.X.Li, F.Q.Zhou & X.J.Li, sp. nov., a new species of Hypodematium from Shandong, China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to H. crenatum (Forssk.) Kuhn & Decken and H. glanduloso-pilosum (Tagawa) Ohwi, but differs greatly from them by its abaxial fronds sparsely covered with rod-shaped glandular hairs, its adaxial fronds without rod-shaped glandular hairs and spore reniform, with verrucate processes, surface with distinct finely lamellar rugae ornamentation. The description, photographs and a key to H. confertivillosum as well as their notes are provided.
["Hypodematium"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

A new species and two new records of Quercus (Fagaceae) from northern Vietnam
A new species, Quercus xuanlienensis Binh, Ngoc & Bon, is described from Xuan Lien Nature Reserve, Vietnam. The new species is morphologically similar to Q. edithiae Skan, in having 8–11 pairs of secondary veins, bowl-shaped cupules and ellipsoid to cylindrical-ellipsoid and basally convex nuts. It differs in having serrulate leaf margins only at apical 1/5–1/7, almost entire margins of bracts on cupule and much longer nuts. The species is also similar to Q. fleuryi Hickel & A. Camus in having leaves glabrous on both surfaces with only an apically serrulate margin but differs in having shorter petioles, cupules enclosing 1/5 of the nut and much longer nuts. In addition, Q. disciformis Chun & Tsiang. and Q. bella Chun & Tsiang., previously known from China, are newly recorded from Ba Vi National Park, Vietnam.
["Ba Vi National Park"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Wood and Agarwood Research"]

Morphological and anatomical evidence support a new wild cassava: Manihot fallax (Crotonoideae, Euphorbiaceae), from Mato Grosso, Brazil
During the preparation of the taxonomic treatment of Manihot in the Midwest Region of Brazil, a new species was found. Manihot fallax M.J. Silva & L.S. Inocencio is described, illustrated and morphologically compared with similar simple-leaved species. The conservation status, geographic distribution (including map), ecology, phenology and notes about leaf anatomy of the new species are given. The synonymisation of M. robusta M. Mend. & T. B. Cavalc. under M. attenuata Müll. Arg. and lectotypes for M. attenuata and M. brachystachys Pax & K. Hoffm are also proposed. An emended description of M. attenuata is proposed as the original description is incomplete as it lacks information on the pistillate flowers, fruits and seeds.
["Central Brazil"]
["Cassava research and cyanide", "Banana Cultivation and Research", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Four new species of Cyrtandra (Gesneriaceae) from the South Pacific islands of Fiji
During fieldwork in Fiji, four new species of Cyrtandra (Gesneriaceae) were discovered and are described herein: C. gregoryi M.A.Johnson, sp. nov., C. hispida M.A.Johnson, sp. nov., C. longifructosa M.A.Johnson, sp. nov., and C. waisaliensis M.A.Johnson, sp. nov. The addition of four new species brings the current number of Fijian Cyrtandra to 41 endemic species. Two of the four species are known from only a single locality, and all of the new species are likely endangered or critically endangered. Continued fieldwork in the islands of Fiji is warranted in order to better understand current species distributions and population demographics of Cyrtandra in this species-rich and still poorly explored region of the South Pacific.
["Cyrtandra"]

Ex uno, multis: taxonomic revision in Navarretia divaricata (Polemoniaceae) and the recognition of four additional cryptic or near-cryptic species
Navarretia divaricata, endemic to western North America and most recently considered a single species with two subspecies, was re-examined in light of field work, DNA sequences, comparative morphology, and a review of herbarium specimens including types. From these studies, we lectotypify the material on which N. divaricata is based, elevate N. divaricata subsp. vividior, which is an allotetraploid, to species rank (as N. vividior comb. et stat. nov.), and recognize three additional species: N. modocensis sp. nov., N. aeroides sp. nov., and N. torreyella sp. nov. Navarretia modocensis, the diploid paternal progenitor of N. vividior, is morphologically cryptic with respect to its allotetraploid offspring and difficult to distinguish on herbarium sheets. Navarretia aeroides, the diploid maternal progenitor of N. vividior, is nearly cryptic, but more easily distinguished from both N. modocensis and N. vividior by its smaller, more glandular inflorescences. Navarretia torreyella is readily distinguished from all of these species, but has been generally mistaken for N. divaricata subsp. vividior given its colored corolla tube and rare co-occurrence with the other vividior-like species. Conservation assessments, an identification key, and table of comparative morphological features are provided for each species, emended descriptions for N. divaricata and N. vividior, and a discussion of the syntypes for Gilia divaricata Torr. ex A.Gray.
["allopolyploidy"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new tiny-leaved species of Raveniopsis (Rutaceae) from the Pakaraima Mountains of Guyana
Raveniopsis microphyllus K.Wurdack, sp. nov., a new species known only from a single peak in the Pakaraima Mtns. of Guyana, is described and illustrated. This white-flowered shrub adds to the many narrow-endemic Guiana Shield species in the genus, and is unique in bearing small, trifoliate, sclerophyllous leaves. Leaf anatomy and surface micromorphology of the new species were examined to document its montane adaptations. The multiple trichome types of the leaves and flowers of new species were characterized, and the systematics value of the considerable foliar trichome variation in Raveniopsis is discussed.
["Guiana Shield"]
["Finance, Taxation, and Governance", "Comparative International Legal Studies", "Legal processes and jurisprudence"]

Novel fern- and centipede-like Selaginella (Selaginellaceae) species and a new combination from South America
Two new Selaginella species (i.e. S. altheae Valdespino and S. squamulosa Valdespino) and a novel combination [i.e. S. philipsonii (Jermy & Rankin) Valdespino] from South America are proposed. Descriptions, illustrations (line drawings and scanning electron micrographs, SEM, images), discussion on taxonomic affinities and information on habitat, distribution and phenology, as well as on conservation status are provided for each. Selaginella altheae is morphologically similar to species with erect, fern-like habit placed in the “Selaginella flabellata (L.) Spring group” as defined by Hieronymus, while S. squamulosa is allied to a species assembly with centipede-like habit here informally termed the “Selaginella vernicosa Baker group;” whereas S. philipsonii with its moss-like habit may be associated with species in the “Selaginella jungermannioides (Gaudich.) Spring group” or those centered on S. ovifolia Baker. All taxa here proposed are classified in subg. Stachygynandrum.

A Nomenclator of Croton (Euphorbiaceae) in Madagascar, the Comoros Archipelago, and the Mascarene Islands
All published names of Croton from Madagascar, the Comoros, and the Mascarenes are treated here. We indicate which names are currently accepted (123 native species and 1 introduced), which ones we consider to be heterotypic synonyms (188), which ones are doubtful (25), and which ones should be excluded (5). We newly designate lectotypes for 108 names, and epitypes for C. anisatus Baill., C. nobilis Baill., and C. submetallicus Baill. A total of 133 names are newly treated as synonyms. One new combination is made, Croton basaltorum (Leandri) P.E.Berry for C. antanosiensis var. basaltorum Leandri, and one new name is proposed, Croton toliarensis B.W.vanEe & Kainul. for C. tranomarensis var. rosmarinifolius Radcl.-Sm.
["Euphorbiaceae"]

Semiaquilegia quelpaertensis (Ranunculaceae), a new species from the Republic of Korea
Semiaquilegia quelpaertensis sp. nov., a new species belonging to the family Ranunculaceae, from Hallasan National Park in Jeju-do, Republic of Korea, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to Semiaquilegia adoxoides (DC.) Makino, but can be readily distinguished by a thick underground stem, shallowly lobed leaflets, larger flowers, (4–)6 staminodes and conspicuously rugose tuberculate seed surface.
["Ranunculaceae"]
["Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

A new species of Raputia (Rutaceae) from the Selva Central of Peru
Raputia codo-pozuzoensis Rob. Fernandez & Arteaga, sp. nov. (Galipeinae, Rutaceae), a new species endemic to the Huanuco region, in the Selva Central of Peru, is described and illustrated here. The new species differs from other species of Raputia by the combination of 5–7-foliolate leaves (a new characteristic for the genus) and longer petioles. A key to the four Peruvian species of Raputia is presented.
["Raputia"]

Asplenium merapohense (Aspleniaceae), a new species from the Peninsular Malaysia
A new species of Asplenium is described from two collections made on limestone hills in Peninsular Malaysia. Conspicuous by its extremely narrow pinnae, it is probably allied to A. salignum but differs in sufficient characters (scale size, size and shape of lamina, venation and sorus length, position and orientation) to be a species in its own right.
["Asplenium"]

Ridleyandra merohmerea (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Kelantan, Peninsular Malaysia
Ridleyandra merohmerea, a new species of Gesneriaceae, is described and illustrated. It is endemic in Peninsular Malaysia and known from a few populations along the Tuang River in the lowland dipterocarp forest of the Ulu Galas Forest Reserve in Kelantan, Peninsular Malaysia. Its conservation status is assessed as Critically Endangered.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Geological and Geophysical Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

New species of Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae) from South America
The importance of discovering, describing and cataloguing poorly known species in herbarium collections is discussed. It is a spur to efforts at rediscovery and consequent conservation efforts. The problems faced in describing species from limited material are discussed and our methods and criteria in making a decision are described. Prospects for future novelties are briefly assessed. Fifteen new species are described and illustrated with line drawings and distribution maps: Ipomoea attenuata J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. cuscoensis J.R.I. Wood & P. Muñoz, I. dasycarpa J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. dolichopoda J.R.I. Wood & R. Degen, I. ensiformis J.R.I.Wood & Scotland, I. fasciculata J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. graminifolia J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. kraholandica J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. longirostra J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. revoluta J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. scopulina J.R.I. Wood &. Scotland, I. uninervis J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. veadeirosii J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. velutinifolia J.R.I. Wood & Scotland, I. walteri J.R.I. Wood & Scotland. All species are narrow endemics except I. velutinifolia which is found in Brazil and Peru; of the others, 12 are found in Brazil and one each in Paraguay and Peru.

The Mosses of Crocker Range Park, Malaysian Borneo
This paper reports the mosses from Crocker Range Park (CRP) in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. In total, 293 species, three subspecies and eight varieties belonging to 118 genera and 36 families are reported. This represents about 40% and 47% of the species and infra-specific taxa reported from Borneo and Sabah, respectively. Out of these, six species are new records for Borneo, namely Barbella horridula, Chaetomitrium lancifolium, Distichophyllum leiopogon, Rhaphidostichum luzonense, Rosulabryum capillare and Taxiphyllum taxirameum and 12 species and one variety are new to Sabah. With these additions, the current number of mosses in Sabah and Borneo are 651 and 766, respectively. The largest family of mosses is Calymperaceae with 35 species and one subspecies, followed by Sematophyllaceae with 32 species and two varieties and Pylaisiadelphaceae with 21 species and one variety. In conclusion, CRP has a very high species richness of mosses which is the second highest in Borneo, after Mount Kinabalu.

Epilithic diatom communities of selected streams from the Lerma-Chapala Basin, Central Mexico, with the description of two new species
The Lerma-Chapala Basin, in Central Mexico, is geologically heterogeneous, climatically diverse and boasts high biodiversity, lying within two Biodiversity Hotspots, namely Mesoamerica and the Madrean Pine–Oak Woodlands. Epilithon and water samples were collected in the basin from 14 sampling sites three times each, two sampling campaigns during the rainy season and one in the dry season. A total of 274 infrageneric taxa in 48 genera were recorded. The taxonomic composition observed was dominated by taxa from the genera Nitzschia, Gomphonema, Pinnularia, Navicula, Sellaphora and Eunotia. About a third of the taxa found could not be identified to the species level. From those unidentified morphodemes, two are described as new species, namely Brachysira altepetlensis and Sellaphora queretana. Furthermore, Eolimna rhombica is transferred to Sellaphora. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) revealed that specific conductivity and pH were the main environmental factors driving the community composition observed. Three groups of samples were identified after the CCA: 1) characterized by acidic waters and low conductivity; 2) with circumneutral waters, low specific conductivity and high temperature and phosphorous concentrations; and 3) characterized by circumneutral waters, high conductivity and low nitrogen concentrations. The indicator value method (IndVal), based on the relative abundance and relative frequency of the most abundant taxa was calculated based on the groups observed in the CCA, identifying the characteristic taxa for each of the three groups.
["Central Mexico"]

A new disjunct Dendrothrix (Euphorbiaceae, tribe Hippomaneae): a Guiana Shield element in sub-Andean cordilleras of Ecuador and Peru
Dendrothrix condorensis K.Wurdack, sp. nov. from the sub-Andean cordilleras of Ecuador and Peru is described and illustrated. The new species is geographically widely separated from its likely closest relative, D. yutajensis, which is endemic to the Guiana Shield region of southern Venezuela and adjacent Brazil, and notably differs in leaf morphology. Vegetative (i.e., epidermal micropapillae, trichomes) and reproductive (i.e., cymule glands, flowers, pollen) micromorphological features were examined with SEM. Rare tristaminate flowers were documented among the typical bistaminate ones. Seeds and diagnostic features among the four species of Dendrothrix are compared.
["Cordillera del C\u00f3ndor"]

Two new endemic tree species from Puerto Rico: Pisonia horneae and Pisonia roqueae (Nyctaginaceae)
In this paper, we describe two endemic tree species of Pisonia (Caryophyllales: Nyctaginaceae) from Puerto Rico that were erroneously catalogued under the single name Pisonia subcordata var. typica f. gigantophylla, misidentified as P. albida or P. subcordata, and informally named as “P. borinquena” and “P. woodburyana”. The species here named as P. horneae is a rare to locally occasional tree from low elevations in the Northern Karst and the Sierra de Cayey. The other species, here named as P. roqueae, is a rare to locally common tree from mid to high elevations in the Central Mountain Range and the Luquillo Mountains. We provide an account of the taxonomical and nomenclatural history of both species, images, conservation notes, a distribution map, and a key to distinguish the species of Pisonia present in Puerto Rico.
["Ana Roqu\u00e9 de Duprey"]
["Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Incadendron: a new genus of Euphorbiaceae tribe Hippomaneae from the sub-Andean cordilleras of Ecuador and Peru
Incadendron esseri K.Wurdack & Farfan, gen. & sp. nov., from the wet sub-Andean cordilleras of Ecuador (Cordillera del Cóndor) and Peru (Cusco, Oxapampa) is described and illustrated. This recently discovered large canopy tree with a narrow elevational range presents an unusual combination of rare morphological characters in Hippomaneae including mucilage-secreting sheathing stipules, conduplicate ptyxis, and large, woody fruits. The broader significance of these characters in Hippomaneae is discussed. The morphology and anatomy of Incadendron were investigated, highlighting its fruit similarities with Guiana Shield endemic Senefelderopsis, and the systematics value of ptyxis variation, which remains poorly studied for the family.

Gelidocalamus xunwuensis (Poaceae, Bambusoideae), a new species from southeastern Jiangxi, China
Gelidocalamus xunwuensis W.G.Zhang & G.Y.Yang, a new species collected from Xunwu County of Jiangxi Province in China, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to G. stellatus in the habit, but differs by internodes sparsely hairy with granuliferous warts, culm sheath stiffly hairy, culm sheath blade broadly lanceolate to narrowly triangular, each node with a ring of appressed trichomes below, foliage leaves broadly lanceolate to narrowly oblong, and new shoots occurring in late October.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Bamboo properties and applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A new combination and taxonomic notes in Pseudobombax Dugand (Malvaceae)
Taxonomic notes in the Neotropical genus Pseudobombax (Malvaceae) are presented. One new combination and two new heterotypic synonyms for taxa originally described from Brazil and Ecuador are proposed based on both morphological and previously published molecular evidence. The taxonomic changes will be adopted in a treatment of Pseudobombax for the upcoming Brazilian Flora 2020 and in a forthcoming revision of the genus throughout its range.
["Bombacoideae"]

A new species of Saracha (Solanaceae) from the Central Andes of Peru
Saracha andina Rob. Fernandez, I. Revilla & E. Pariente, sp. nov. (Solanaceae), a new species endemic to the central Andes of Peru, is described here. The new species differs from other species of Saracha Ruiz & Pav. by the combination of small and coriaceous leaves and clearly tubular flowers. A summary of the taxonomic history of the genus Saracha, an identification key for its species and a phylogenetic analysis of this genus and related genera are provided.
["Saracha"]
["Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

A revision of the Solanum elaeagnifolium clade (Elaeagnifolium clade; subgenus Leptostemonum, Solanaceae)
The Solanum elaeagnifolium clade (Elaeagnifolium clade) contains five species of small, often rhizomatous, shrubs from deserts and dry forests in North and South America. Members of the clade were previously classified in sections Leprophora, Nycterium and Lathyrocarpum, and were not thought to be closely related. The group is sister to the species-rich monophyletic Old World clade of spiny solanums. The species of the group have an amphitropical distribution, with three species in Mexico and the southwestern United States and three species in Argentina. Solanum elaeagnifolium occurs in both North and South America, and is a noxious invasive weed in dry areas worldwide. Members of the group are highly variable morphologically, and this variability has led to much synonymy, particularly in the widespread S. elaeagnifolium. We here review the taxonomic history, morphology, relationships and ecology of these species and provide keys for their identification, descriptions, full synonymy (including designations of lectotypes) and nomenclatural notes. Illustrations, distribution maps and preliminary conservation assessments are provided for all species.
["amphitropical"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Melicope stonei, section Pelea (Rutaceae), a new species from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands: with notes on its distribution, ecology, conservation status, and phylogenetic placement
Melicope stonei K.R. Wood, Appelhans & W.L. Wagner (section Pelea, Rutaceae), a new endemic tree species from Kaua‘i, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated with notes on its distribution, ecology, conservation status, and phylogenetic placement. The new species differs from its Hawaiian congeners by its unique combination of distinct carpels and ramiflorous inflorescences arising on stems below the leaves; plants monoecious; leaf blades (5–)8–30 × (4–)6–11 cm, with abaxial surface densely tomentose, especially along midribs; and very long petioles of up to 9 cm. Since its discovery in 1988, 94 individuals have been documented and are confined to a 1.5 km2 region of unique high canopy mesic forest. Melicope stonei represents a new Critically Endangered (CR) single island endemic species on Kaua‘i.
["Rutaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies"]

Craterispermum capitatum and C. gabonicum (Rubiaceae): two new species from the Lower Guinean and Congolian Domains
Craterispermum capitatum and C. gabonicum, two new species of Rubiaceae, are described from the Lower Guinea and Congolian Domains. Detailed descriptions and distribution maps are provided for each species, their conservation status is assessed and their taxonomic affinities are discussed. Craterispermum gabonicum is unique within the genus because of the strong dimorphism in brevistylous and longistylous flowers and inflorescences. We hypothesize that this species shows some form of dioecy. The distribution of C. capitatum shows a wide disjunction: the species is present in the Lower Guinean and Congolian Domains but absent from Gabon and South Cameroon. An identification key for the Craterispermum species present in the Lower Guinean and Congolian Domains is given.
["Rubiaceae"]

Premna bhamoensis (Lamiaceae, Premnoideae), a new species from Kachin State, northeastern Myanmar
In the present study, we describe and illustrate a new species, Premna bhamoensis Y. T. Tan & B. Li (Lamiaceae), from Myanmar. In the 1980s, this species was transplanted from Bhamo County in northeastern Myanmar to the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences. The species shows striking morphological similarity to P. menglaensis B. Li, and thus, has been misidentified as the latter for a long period of time. However, morphological comparison revealed that P. bhamoensis is distinct from P. menglaensis in many aspects. Moreover, literature survey and specimen examinations also indicated that P. bhamoensis is undoubtedly different from all seven known congenetic species recorded from Kachin State, Myanmar, and a key for their identification has been provided in this paper.

Recircumscription and taxonomic revision of Siderasis, with comments on the systematics of subtribe Dichorisandrinae (Commelinaceae)
A new circumscription and a total of six microendemic species, four of them new to science, are herein presented for Siderasis, based on field and herbaria studies, and cultivated material. We provide an identification key to the species and a distribution map, description, comments, conservation assessment, and illustration for each species. Also, we present an emended key to the genera of subtribe Dichorisandrinae, and comments on the morphology and systematics of the subtribe.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Argyrella richardsiae, a new species of Melastomataceae from the wet miombo woodlands of south-central Africa
A new species from the wet miombo woodlands of Tanzania and Angola, Argyrella richardsiae Veranso-Libalah & G.Kadereit, sp. nov. (Melastomataceae, Melastomateae), is described and illustrated. Although the widespread Argyrella canescens also occurs in Tanzania and northeastern Angola, A. richardsiae is morphologically most similar to Argyrella bambutorum known only from the Northwest of Cameroon, but differs by its indumentum of glandular trichomes on the entire plant (versus a mixture of stellate and glandular trichomes in other species of Argyrella), leaf-blades with serrulate margins (versus entire margins in A. bambutorum) and lateral nerves that become faint mid-way and never reach the leaf apex (versus conspicuous lateral nerves percurrent from the base to the apex in A. bambutorum). A preliminary conservation status of Endangered (EN) is proposed for A. richardsiae following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. A taxonomic key and distribution map of all Argyrella species is also included.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Differentiating Iconella from Surirella (Bacillariophyceae): typifying four Ehrenberg names and a preliminary checklist of the African taxa
To comply with the new phylogeny within the Surirellales as supported by molecular and morphological data, re-evaluations and re-combinations of taxa from and within the genera Surirella, Cymatopleura, and Stenopterobia and with the re-established genus Iconella are necessary. Since the African diatom flora is rich with taxa from these genera, especially Iconella, and the authors have studied these taxa recently, describing also new taxa, a preliminary checklist of African Iconella and Surirella is here presented. 94 names are contained on this list. 57 taxa have been transferred to Iconella; 55 taxa were formerly ranked within Surirella and two taxa within Stenopterobia. 10 taxa have stayed within Surirella and six taxa have been transferred from Cymatopleura to Surirella. 20 Surirella and 1 Stenopterobia names are listed which are either unrevised or unrevisable since morphological data is missing. Four names and taxa described by Ehrenberg are here typified. Two had been transferred to Iconella already: Iconella bifrons (Ehrenb.) Ruck & Nakov and Iconella splendida (Ehrenb.) Ruck & Nakov. Two are re-transferred from Cymatopleura to Surirella: Surirella librile (Ehrenb.) Ehrenb. and Surirella undulata (Ehrenb.) Ehrenb.; both taxa are currently known by their younger synonyms: Cymatopleura solea (Bréb.) W. Smith and Cymatopleura elliptica (Bréb. ex Kützing) W. Smith. Lectotypes for Iconella bifrons, I. splendida, Surirella librile, and S. undulata were designated.
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Analytical chemistry methods development", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

Two peculiar new species of Heteranthera Ruiz & Pavón (Pontederiaceae) from Brazil, with notes on inflorescence architecture in the family
Two new and peculiar species of Heteranthera are herein described. Heteranthera catharinensis is unique in the genus due to its glomerulate, many-flowered inflorescences, in which the flowers are restricted to the base and apex of the cincinni. It also possesses the biggest flowers in the H. reniformis Ruiz & Pavón species complex, with glabrous perianth lobes, medial filament, and style. On the other hand, Heteranthera pumila is described as the smallest known species of Pontederiaceae, with its dwarf stature, petiolate leaves with especially diminute blades, inflorescences 1–2–(3)-flowered, peduncle densely covered with glandular hairs, basal bract with glandular hairs at base, and smooth seeds, rarely possessing 7–9 inconspicuous longitudinal wings. We present detailed descriptions, illustrations, comments, a distribution map, conservation assessments for the new species, and an identification key to the Brazilian species of Heterantheras.l. Finally, we discuss inflorescence morphology and terminology in Pontederiaceae, characterizing it as thyrsoid.

Eutrema giganteum (Brassicaceae), a new species from Sichuan, southwest China
Eutrema giganteum (Brassicaceae), a new species from Hengduan Mountains in Sichuan Province, southwest China, is described, and its relationships to the closely related E. yunnanense is discussed based on morphological, cytological, and molecular data. It is similar morphologically to E. yunnanense but is readily distinguished by having robust (vs. slender), erect (vs. decumbent), and branched (vs. mostly simple), and rather tall stems (60–110 cm vs. 20–60 cm); curved (vs. straight), smooth (vs. torulose), and shorter fruit (5–8 mm vs. 8–15 mm); and fewer ovules per ovary (1–4 vs. 6–10). All examined individuals from different populations of E. giganteum clustered into a single clade sister to E. yunnanense in phylogenetic analyses using the combined nuclear ITS and plastid DNA datasets. Our cytological studies revealed that the chromosome number of E. giganteum is 2n = 44, with a genome size of 1160 (±8) Mb, while that of E. yunnanense is 2n = 28, with a genome size of 718 (±15) Mb. Multiple lines of evidence support the recognition of E. giganteum as a distinct species well differentiated from E. yunnanense.
["Brassicaceae"]

Semenovia gyirongensis (Apiaceae), a new species from Xizang, China
Based on morphology and molecular data, a new species Semenovia gyirongensis Q.Y.Xiao & X.J.He, from Gyirong County, Xizang, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically most similar to S. malcolmii (Hemsley & Pearson) Pimenov, but differs in its cylindric much-branched root, intensively branching long underground caudex with distinct nodes, narrowly ovate to ovate terminal leaf lobes, oblong bracts with obtuse-rounded or cuneate apex.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Alkaloids: synthesis and pharmacology", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Solanum jobsonii, a novel andromonoecious bush tomato species from a new Australian national park
A new species of Solanum from the Australian “andromonoecious bush tomato clade” of Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum is described. Solanum jobsonii Martine, J.Cantley, & L.M.Lacey, sp. nov. is part of the S. eburneum Symon species group. It most closely resembles S. eburneum and S. watneyi Martine & Frawley of the northwestern part of the Northern Territory, but is separated geographically from them by the Sturt Plateau. Morphometric analyses show that S. jobsonii differs statistically from S. eburneum, S. watneyi, and S. diversiflorum F.Muell. – a similar species in habit and leaf characters – in several key reproductive and vegetative characters. We provide morphometric evidence for the recognition of S. jobsonii, a complete description, a table of comparisons within its species group, and a map showing species group distributions. One of the first new species to be described from Limmen National Park (established 2012), S. jobsonii is a testament to the value of designating and protecting public lands, as well as supporting science relating to them.
["Limmen National Park"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Morphometric analysis and bioclimatic distribution of Glebionis coronaria s.l. (Asteraceae) in the Mediterranean area
We present a revision of Glebionis coronaria in the Mediterranean area based on: a) micro-morphology of the disc floret cypselas observed with a high-resolution confocal microscopy; b) measurements of the disc cypsela with a stereoscopic microscope – duly scaled; c) its distribution in several bioclimatic belts; d) field observations; e) comparisons of herbarium samples. Because of this study, we propose the elevation of Glebionis coronaria var. discolor to the rank of species, as Glebionis discolor comb. & stat. nov., based on morphological and ecological characteristics such as the disposition of the intercostal glands, the size of the disc cypsela wings and its distribution according to the bioclimatic belts. Glebionis coronaria, with totally yellow ray florets and intercostal glands aligned, is exclusive to the thermo-Mediterranean bioclimatic belt, while Glebionis discolor, with white ray florets on a yellow base and intercostal glands arranged randomly, is found in the thermo- and meso-Mediterranean belt. Illustrations of micromorphological characteristics of the cypselas, an identification key, a taxonomic synopsis including information on nomenclatural types, synonyms, descriptions of the taxa, and, as supplementary information, a list of the specimens examined and bioclimatic classification of samples localities are also presented.
["Bioclimatic Distribution"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

Five new species of Syzygium (Myrtaceae) from Sulawesi, Indonesia
Following ongoing ecological research on the tree diversity of the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, we describe five new species of Syzygium. These are the first descriptions of Syzygium species from the island since Blume (1850, Jambosa celebica and J. cornifolia), highlighting the significant lack of taxonomic research on the genus for the region. The five species proposed as new are Syzygium balgooyi sp. nov., Syzygium contiguum sp. nov., Syzygium devogelii sp. nov., Syzygium eymae sp. nov., and Syzygium galanthum sp. nov. All species are illustrated and information on their distribution, ecology, and conservation status is given.

Two new species of Sabulina (Caryophyllaceae) from Washington State, U.S.A.
Sabulina basaltica and Sabulina sororia (Caryophyllaceae) are described as new species endemic to Washington State, U.S.A. Sabulina basaltica is restricted to high-elevation, basalt rocks in the northeastern Olympic Mountains, and Sabulina sororia to high-elevation, dunite rocks of the Twin Sisters Range in the North Cascade Mountains. Both were previously confused with Sabulina rossii (formerly called Arenaria rossii or Minuartia rossii). Their recognition as distinct species is supported by morphological and molecular characters and disjunct geographic distributions. Both are illustrated, mapped and compared to related species. We also present a molecular phylogeny of Sabulina based on nuclear ITS and plastid trnQ-rps16 DNA with increased sampling of North American taxa. The phylogeny resolves a single clade containing all glabrous, perennial, North American Sabulina taxa including Sabulina rossii and both of the new species.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Flora of Nam Kading National Protected Area I: a new species of yellow-flowered Strobilanthes (Acanthaceae), S. namkadingensis
A new species of Acanthaceae, Strobilanthes namkadingensis Soulad. & Tagane from Nam Kading National Protected Area, Bolikhamxay Province, central Laos, is described and illustrated. It is characterized by long spicate inflorescences consisting of 6-32 flowers, yellow corolla, the absence of long white hairs on the bracts and 4–6 seeds per capsule. Three DNA barcode regions of the partial genes for the large sub-unit ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase oxygenase (rbcL) and maturase K (matK) and internal transcribed spacers (ITS) are also provided.

A new species of Cinnamomum (Lauraceae) from the Bladen Nature Reserve, southern Belize
A new species in the Lauraceae, Cinnamomum bladenense S.W. Brewer & G.L. Stott, is described from the Bladen Nature Reserve in southern Belize. The new species is similar to Cinnamomum brenesii (Standl.) Kosterm., from which it differs by its much smaller, narrowly-campanulate flowers, its inner tepals glabrous abaxially, its shorter petioles, its minutely sericeous younger twigs, and its abaxial leaf surfaces not glaucous and with prominent secondary venation. A description, preliminary conservation assessment, and photographs of the species as well as a key to and notes on the Cinnamomum of Belize are provided.
["Cinnamomum"]

Epitypification with an emended description of Tropidia connata (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae, Tropidieae)
We found several specimens of Tropidia connata, a mycoheterotrophic orchid from Borneo, with features which have never been described in any of the existing literature, namely subterranean tubers. We mainly focus on the importance of the subterranean structures in comparison with the mycoheterotrophic genus Kalimantanorchis from the tribe Tropidieae. This finding of the tuberous structure gives a new insight into the classification of mycoheterotrohic species of Tropidieae and might affect the generic placement of Kalimantanorchis. We made a detailed study on the newly discovered specimens as well as the type, and found more diagnostic characters of T. connata than the previous description. Considering that the type specimen lacks the whole tuberous character, we consequently designate an epitype with a drawing and emend the description.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Macrosolen bidoupensis (Loranthaceae), a new species from Bidoup Nui Ba National Park, southern Vietnam
Macrosolen bidoupensis Tagane & V.S.Dang, sp. nov. (Loranthaceae) is newly described from Bidoup Nui Ba National Park in Lam Dong Province, southern Vietnam. The new species is characterized by small broadly elliptic to circular leaves, sessile to short petioles, slightly cordate to rounded leaf bases, 4–5 pairs of lateral veins and a basally green corolla tube. An illustration, a summary of DNA barcoding of the plastid genes rbcL and matK, and a key to the species of Macrosolen in Vietnam are provided.
["Bidoup Nui Ba National Park"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

Morphological characteristics and genetic evidence reveals a new species of Manihot (Euphorbiaceae, Crotonoideae) from Goiás, Brazil
During botanical expeditions between 2010 and 2015, as part of a taxonomic study of Manihot in the Midwest region of Brazil, approximately 500 specimens of the genus were collected. Some of these specimens presented similarities to M. irwinii. However, after careful morphological analyses, associated with genetic evidence, we propose here M. pulchrifolius as a new species. The new species is described, illustrated, and compared to M. irwinii, its most similar species. Furthermore, geographic distribution, conservation status, and period of flowering and fruiting of the novel species are also provided.
["Cassava research and cyanide", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Distribution of the invasive plant species Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden. in the Komi Republic (Russia)
Occurrences of the invasive plant species Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden. in the Komi Republic (northeastern part of European Russia) were recorded and published in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF http://www.gbif.org) using the RIVR information system (http://ib.komisc.ru/add/rivr/en). RIVR stands for “Rasprostranenie Invasionnyh Vidov Rastenij” [Occurrence of Invasion Plant Species]. This citizen science project aims at collecting occurrence data about invasive plant species with the help of citizen scientists. Information can be added by any user after a simple registration (concept) process. However, the data published in GBIF are provided only by professional scientists. The total study area is approximately 19,000 km2. The GBIF resource contains 10894 H. sosnowskyi occurrence points, each with their geographical coordinates and photographs of the plants in the locus of growth. The preliminary results of species distribution modelling on the territory of European North-East Russia presented.
["Occurrence"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Plant and animal studies"]

Garcinia hopii (Clusiaceae), a new species from Bidoup Nui Ba National Park, southern Vietnam
A new species, Garcinia hopii H.Toyama & V.S.Dang is described from Bidoup Nui Ba National Park, southern Vietnam. This species is similar to Garcinia hendersoniana Whitmore but differs from that species in having larger leaves, clustered pistillate flowers, a greater number of sterile anthers and a larger stigma of young fruits. A description, preliminary conservation assessment, illustration, photographs and DNA barcodes of the new species are provided, as well as an updated key to Garcinia sect. Hebradendron in Indochina.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Natural Compound Pharmacology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A new species of Heliconia (Heliconiaceae) with pendent inflorescence, from Chucantí Private Nature Reserve, eastern Panama
Heliconia berguidoi (Heliconiaceae), a new species from premontane forest of eastern Panama, is described, illustrated and its conservation status evaluated. H. berguidoi bears pink flowers, an uncommon color in this group. It differs from the Colombian species Heliconia rhodantha and Heliconia sanctae-theresae, the most similar taxa, by the combination of a petiole glabrous except for the woolly base, a very long peduncle, the perianth pubescent at the apex and staminode with cuspidate apex. H. berguidoi is also similar to Heliconia pogonantha in all four of its varieties and to Heliconia ramonensis in two of its four varieties, but differs by a combination of the long peduncle, pink flowers and staminode with cuspidate apex. Fifty-six Heliconia species have been found in Panama, eighteen of them endemic.
["Barbatae"]

Impatiens bokorensis (Balsaminaceae), a new species from Cambodia
Impatiens bokorensis, a new species of family Balsaminaceae from Phnum Bokor National Park in southwestern Cambodia, is described and illustrated. The species is similar to I. patula, but is readily distinguished by the orbicular-obovate dorsal petal, shorter pedicels and larger seeds.
["Phnum Bokor National Park"]

Studies on the moss flora of the Bío-Bío Region of Chile: Part 3
This is the final report on the moss flora of the Bío-Bío Region (Región VIII) in south-central Chile where collections were made in 2001–2003. Reported in this paper are one species new to South America, four species new to Chile and 16 species new to the Region. With these new additions the total number of taxa in the Bío-Bío Region is 343, corresponding to 331 species and 12 infraspecific taxa. A complete checklist of the mosses for all the provinces in the Region is presented.
["Bryophyta"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

Athyrium haleakalae (Athyriaceae), a new rheophytic fern species from East Maui, Hawaiian Islands: with notes on its distribution, ecology, and conservation status
Athyrium haleakalae K.R. Wood & W.L. Wagner (Athyriaceae), a small lithophytic fern from East Maui, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated. Notes on its distribution, ecology, and conservation status are also presented. The new species appears to be an obligate rheophyte, preferring sites of fast moving water along concave walls of streams and waterfalls. Athyrium haleakalae differs from the only other known Hawaiian Athyrium, A. microphyllum (Sm.) Alston, in having rhizomes 1–3 cm long and lanceolate blades 1- to 2-pinnate-pinnatifid, 3–8(–11) × 1–3(–4) cm, as compared to A. microphyllum having rhizomes (10–)15–30 cm long and ovate to ovate-triangular blades 3-pinnate-pinnatifid to 4-pinnate, 30–82 × 20–50 cm.

Two new species and a new combination in Protium (Burseraceae) from Costa Rica
Two new species of Protium (Burseraceae) are described and illustrated: Protium aguilarii sp. nov., from the Pacific slope of the Osa Peninsula, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica; and P. hammelii sp. nov., from wet forests on the Caribbean slopes of Nicaragua and Costa Rica. In addition, Protium brenesii comb. nov., is proposed as a new combination based on Trichilia brenesii, a name that was based on a specimen collected with flowers in the mountains near San Ramón, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica. It is compared with P. costaricense, a similar species with which it has been confused for more than 90 years. Finally, illustrations and specimen citations are provided for all the aforementioned taxa, and some others with which they have been confused.
["Burseraceae"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Reproductive biology and variation of nuclear ribosomal ITS and ETS sequences in the Calligonum mongolicum complex (Polygonaceae)
To explore the biosystematics of the Calligonum mongolicum complex (Polygonaceae), the flowering phenological period, breeding and pollination characters and seed set of the complex (C. Mongolicum Turze, C. chinense A. Los., C. gobicum A. Los., C. pumilum A. Los. and C. zaidamense A. Los.) were documented in the Turpan Eremophyte Botanical Garden, China. The sequences of the nuclear ribosomal ITS and ETS region were employed to differentiate the C. mongolicum complex and other species in sect. Medusae. The results showed species of the C. mongolicum complex occupied overlapping flowering periods and had consistent pollination agents. Their breeding systems are all self-compatible, tend to be out-crossing and they interbreed amongst each other (out-crossing index, OCI = 4).The crosses within and amongst species had high seed sets (44 - 65%). Phylogenetic analyses of Calligonum sect. Medusae and the network analysis of nrDNA (ITS and ETS) in the complex suggest interbreeding amongst “species” within the complex and provide evidence for taxonomically merging the five species in the complex. The detected hybridisation, occurring within the complex, suggests the need to improve traditional methods of ex situ plant conservation in botanical gardens for maintaining genetic diversity of Calligonum within and amongst species from different geographic areas.
["Calligonum mongolicum complex"]
["Plant Reproductive Biology", "Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations"]

Eutrema salsugineum (Cruciferae) new to Mexico: a surprising generic record for the flora of Middle America
The paper reports Eutrema salsugineum as a novelty to the flora of Mexico and Middle America in general. The finding stands ca. 1600 km apart from the closest known locality in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, USA. The species is considered native to NW Mexico and its late discovery in the region is presumably explained by its tiny habit, early flowering time, and subephemeral life cycle. The phylogenetic position of this Mexican population in a haplotype network based on the chloroplast DNA fragment psbA-trnH confirms this hypothesis and also suggests, in contrast to the previously held viewpoint, multiple colonizations of North American continent from Asia.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Espeletia praesidentis, a new species of Espeletiinae (Millerieae, Asteraceae) from northeastern Colombia
A new species of Espeletia from the Páramo de Presidente in northeastern Colombia is described. The species is named Espeletia praesidentis after the name of the páramo, and it is dedicated to the President Juan Manuel Santos, for his persistent efforts in working for peace for Colombia. The new species is closely related to Espeletia dugandii, but differs in the shape and colour of the leaves and arrangements of the capitulescences. A large population was found, but its total extension is yet to be determine.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Spathelia belizensis, a new species and first record for the genus in Central America (tribe Spathelieae, Rutaceae)
Spathelia L. as currently circumscribed is endemic to the western portion of the West Indies, and contains nine species, one endemic to the Bahamas, three endemic to Jamaica and five endemic to Cuba. The discovery of a new species in Belize brings the total number of species in Spathelia to ten and expands its known distribution beyond the West Indies. Spathelia belizensis sp. nov. is herein described, illustrated and contrasted to its most morphologically similar congener. A key to the species of Spathelia is provided.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Phytochemical compounds biological activities"]

Systematics of Simplicia Kirk (Poaceae, Agrostidinae) – an endemic, threatened New Zealand grass genus
A new species of the New Zealand endemic grass Simplicia, S. felix is described. The new species is segregated from and compared with S. buchananii and S. laxa. Simplicia felix occurs mostly in lightly shaded areas of seasonally dry alluvial forest. A distribution map and an assessment of the conservation status of the new species are presented. Genetic variation in the genus was examined, building on previously published work but including additional sampling. Analysis of nrDNA ITS and ETS and plastid trnL intron and trnL–F intergenic spacer sequences show S. felix to be more closely related to S. laxa than to S. buchananii. NeighborNet analyses of AFLP profiles for the three species of Simplicia show each to consist of distinct clusters of genotypes well separated from each other.
["Poaceae"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Ruminant Nutrition and Digestive Physiology", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Taxonomy and nomenclature of the polymorphic European high mountain species Androsace vitaliana (L.) Lapeyr. (Primulaceae)
Androsace vitaliana (syn. Vitaliana primuliflora; Primulaceae) has been subject to several taxonomic treatments, whose conclusions ranged from a single species with numerous infraspecific taxa to several species usually without infraspecific taxa. Here, following molecular investigation, several taxonomic changes are made. A single species with the following infraspecific taxa is recognized: subsp. vitaliana (Pyrenees), subsp. cinerea (south-western Alps), subsp. lepontina (Pennine Alps), subsp. sesleri (south-eastern Alps), subsp. praetutiana (Apennines) and subsp. assoana (Iberian Peninsula excluding the Pyrenees), the last of which is divided into the four allopatrically distributed varieties assoana, centriberica, flosjugorum and nevadensis. Contrary to some previous assertions, all taxa are allopatric and, especially for subspp. vitaliana, cinerea and lepontina, where clear diagnostic characters are lacking, they can best be determined by their geographic origin.
["Androsace"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Botanical Studies and Applications", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

Arabis watsonii (P.H.Davis) F.K.Mey.: An overlooked cruciferous species from eastern Anatolia and its phylogenetic position
Arabis watsonii (P.H.Davis) F.K.Mey. was initially reported as Thlaspi watsonii P.H.Davis in Flora of Turkey. Although F.K.Meyer transferred this species to Arabis L., this species has been overlooked and treated as Thlaspi L. in relevant literature for Flora of Turkey. In this study this species was evaluated using molecular (nuclear ITS and plastidic trnL-F sequences) and morphological data. Results clearly show that A. watsonii is sister to the A. hirsuta aggregate and its relatives. In conclusion, our results increased the number of known Arabis species in Turkey to 23. Furthermore, detailed description and distribution of the species are given and a new IUCN threat category for A. watsonii is proposed.
["Arabis"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

A remarkable new species of Brunfelsia (Solanaceae) from the eastern Andes of Central Peru
Brunfelsia cabiesesiana J. G. Graham, sp. nov. (Solanaceae), a new species from montane cloud forests of Ucayali and Pasco Departments, Peru, is described and illustrated. The new species differs from all other members of the genus Brunfelsia by its cauline inflorescences. A key to the Peruvian species of Brunfelsia is presented.
["Brunfelsia"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

Borneocola (Zingiberaceae), a new genus from Borneo
A new genus from Borneo, Borneocola Y.Y.Sam, is described here. The genus currently contains eight species previously classified as members of the Scaphochlamys Baker. The finding is based on the results of the morphological and molecular studies of Scaphochlamys throughout its geographical range and its closely allied sister groups, Distichochlamys M.F.Newman and Myxochlamys A.Takano & Nagam. Borneocola is nested within the tribe Zingibereae and its monophyly is strongly supported by both ITS and matK sequence data. The genus is characterised by several thin, translucent and marcescent floral bracts, absence of coloured streaks on the labellum and capitate stigma with two dorsal knobs. The genus is distributed in northwest Borneo and all species are very rare and highly endemic.
["Distichochlamys"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies"]

Taxonomic and floristic novelties for Echeveria (Crassulaceae) in Central Michoacan, Mexico
A new species, Echeveria coruana, is described and illustrated from the malpaís near San Andrés Corú, Michoacan, Mexico. The species belongs to series Gibbiflorae and the new taxon was compared with E. purhepecha and E. patriotica, with whom it shares the closest morphological affinities. Additionally, E. yalmanantlaensis an endangered species from Sierra of Manantlán Biosphere Reserve, State of Colima, was also discovered near San Andrés Corú and is reported for the first time from the State of Michoacan. The conservation status of both species was (re)evaluated according to the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Two new infraspecific taxa of Verbascum delphicum (Scrophulariaceae, Scrophularieae) from mainland Greece and the island of Evvia
Verbascum delphicum Boiss. & Heldr. subsp. cervi Zografidis (Scrophulariaceae, Scrophularieae) is described as a subspecies new to science and illustrated. It is narrowly distributed in the Greek National Park of Mt Parnitha (Attica, Greece) with a very small population size. The new subspecies is a seldom-collected taxon, previously overlooked and misidentified as consubspecific with the autonymous subspecies, an endemic of the island of Evvia (Greece). Also described in this study is a new variety of subsp. delphicum from Mt Ochi of southern Evvia.
["Verbascum"]

Two new non-spiny Solanum (Solanaceae) from the Gran Chaco Americano and a key for the herbaceous glandular-pubescent solanums from the region
The Gran Chaco Americano is a major savanna woodland system in South America that harbours great plant and animal diversity. Two new herbaceous species of the Morelloid clade of Solanum (largely corresponding to the traditional Solanum section Solanum) are described here from the Bolivian Chaco. Both species are morphologically similar to a group of related species with glandular pubescence and enlarged, foliaceous calyces that includes S. atriplicifolium Gillies ex Nees, S. nitidibaccatum Bitter, S. physalifolium Rusby, S. sarrachoides Sendtn. and S. tweedianum Hook. Solanum woodii Särkinen & S.Knapp, sp. nov. is unusual in the Morelloid clade in having tapering anthers on short filaments, and is superficially similar to the unrelated S. anomalostemon S.Knapp & M.Nee from dry forests in Peru. Solanum michaelis Särkinen & S.Knapp, sp. nov. is distinct in its enlarged calyx with a short tube and long lobes that apparently reflex at fruit maturity. Both new taxa are illustrated, their conservation status assessed, and their distributions mapped. We also provide a key to the glandular-pubescent herbaceous Solanum species of the Chaco vegetation to aid in identification of these taxa.

Taxonomic revision of Neotropical Murdannia Royle (Commelinaceae)
This study provides a taxonomic revision for the Neotropical species of the genus Murdannia. Six species are recognized as native, including a new species and a new combination, while two Asian species are recognized as invasive. We present an identification key, a table summarizing the morphologic differences among the species, a new synonym, six lectotypifications, a distribution map, and descriptions, comments and photographic plates for each species. We also provide comments on the morphology of the Neotropical species of Murdannia, comparing them with the Paleotropical species, and a discussion of inflorescence architecture in the genus as a whole.

Phylogenetic analyses and morphological characteristics support the description of a second species of Tridimeris (Annonaceae)
Based on phylogenetic and morphological evidence, Tridimeris chiapensis Escobar-Castellanos & Ortiz-Rodr., sp. n. (Annonaceae), a new species from the karst forest of southern Mexico, is described and illustrated. The new species differs from Tridimeris hahniana, the only described species in the genus, in that the latter has flowers with sepals densely tomentose outside, one (rarely two) carpel(s) per flower and fruits densely covered with golden-brown hairs, while Tridimeris chiapensis has flowers with glabrous sepals outside, two to five carpels per flower and glabrous fruits. Furthermore, a shallow triangular white patch at the base of the inner petals is found in T. chiapensis, a morphological character shared with the sister genus Sapranthus but absent in T. hahniana. Geographically, both species occur allopatrically. With just one known locality and seven individuals of Tridimeris chiapensis recorded in one sampling hectare, and based on application of the criteria established by the IUCN, we conclude tentatively that the species is critically endangered.
["Dimery"]

Isoetes mississippiensis: A new quillwort from Mississippi, USA
Isoetes mississippiensis S.W. Leonard, W.C. Taylor, L.J. Musselman and R.D. Bray (Isoetaceae, Lycopodiophyta) is a new species known from two sites along tributaries of the Pearl River in southern Mississippi. This species is distinguished from other species in the southeastern United States by a combination of character states including a basic diploid (2n=22) chromosome count, laevigate megaspores, and a narrow velum covering less than one-third of the adaxial sporangium wall.
["Isoetes"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A new Globba with large white floral bracts from Peninsular Malaysia
Globba magnibracteata Y.Y.Sam, sp. nov. is described and illustrated. Colour plates, a preliminary conservation assessment and a discussion of its closely related taxa are provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Taxonomic revision and distribution of herbaceous Paramollugo (Molluginaceae) in the Eastern Hemisphere
The genus Paramollugo with the type species Paramollugo nudicaulis (≡Mollugo nudicaulis) has recently been described after molecular investigations. Here we report two new endemic Malagasy species: Paramollugo simulans and P. elliotii, and transfer a forgotten New Caledonian endemic Mollugo digyna to Paramollugo (P. digyna). Consequently, the number of Paramollugo species in the Eastern Hemisphere is increased from three to six. Almost all genus representatives (except P. nudicaulis, which has a wide distribution in Southern Asia, Arabia and tropical Africa) are endemic to Madagascar, Somalia, or New Caledonia. Since the type of seed coat ornamentation is crucial for species delimitation, a diagnostic key with new taxonomically significant carpological characters and other new traits is provided for all the herbaceous Paramollugo. The distribution patterns of P. nudicaulis s.str., P. simulans and P. elliotii are presented.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Strongylodon juangonzalezii, a remarkable new species of Strongylodon (Fabaceae) from Mulanay, Quezon Province, Philippines
A new species, Strongylodon juangonzalezii Hadsall, Alejado & Cajano, collected from Buenavista Protected Landscape, Mulanay, Quezon, is hereby described. The new species is remarkable for its plagiotropic dense inflorescence made up of 27–31 flowers per cluster in a lateral branch. Flowers are lilac when young, then gradually turn blue when mature. A comparison of the morphology of S. juangonzalezii and related species of Strongylodon in the Philippines is provided. Detailed illustration based on the holotype and photos from its natural habitat are also included. With this new species, the Philippines now harbors eight endemic species of Strongylodon. A key to distinguish the species is provided.
["Mulanay"]

Revision of the Lima clade (Miconia sect. Lima, Miconieae, Melastomataceae) of the Greater Antilles
Miconia sect. Lima is an entirely Greater Antillean clade that consists of 19 known species of shrubs and small trees, which were previously recognized under the polyphyletic genera Leandra and Ossaea. The highest species richness in the clade is represented on Cuba (10 species), followed by Hispaniola (8 species) and then Jamaica (1 species). Here we present a taxonomic revision of the clade based on the study of species in the field, herbarium specimens, as well as a DNA-based phylogeny reconstruction. The Lima clade most likely originated on Cuba and then spread to Jamaica once and Hispaniola multiple times. Species of this clade can be recognized by the well developed bulla-based hairs of the adaxial leaf surface, as well as the clavate-dendritic hairs produced along the primary, secondary and tertiary veins of the adaxial leaf surface, mostly towards the leaf base, terminal inflorescences, acute petal apices, slightly bulla-based hairs produced subapically along the petal abaxial surface, and anthers with a dorso-basal appendage and a single, dorsally oriented pore. Descriptions, synonymies, along with distribution maps and illustrations/figures, are given for each species. Miconia pagnolensis sp. nov. is newly described in this revision.

A new generic system for the pantropical Caesalpinia group (Leguminosae)
The Caesalpinia group is a large pantropical clade of ca. 205 species in subfamily Caesalpinioideae (Leguminosae) in which generic delimitation has been in a state of considerable flux. Here we present new phylogenetic analyses based on five plastid and one nuclear ribosomal marker, with dense taxon sampling including 172 (84%) of the species and representatives of all previously described genera in the Caesalpinia group. These analyses show that the current classification of the Caesalpinia group into 21 genera needs to be revised. Several genera (Poincianella, Erythrostemon, Cenostigma and Caesalpinia sensu Lewis, 2005) are non-monophyletic and several previously unclassified Asian species segregate into clades that merit recognition at generic rank. In addition, the near-completeness of our taxon sampling identifies three species that do not belong in any of the main clades and these are recognised as new monospecific genera. A new generic classification of the Caesalpinia group is presented including a key for the identification of genera, full generic descriptions, illustrations (drawings and photo plates of all genera), and (for most genera) the nomenclatural transfer of species to their correct genus. We recognise 26 genera, with reinstatement of two previously described genera (Biancaea Tod., Denisophytum R. Vig.), re-delimitation and expansion of several others (Moullava, Cenostigma, Libidibia and Erythrostemon), contraction of Caesalpinia s.s. and description of four new ones (Gelrebia, Paubrasilia, Hererolandia and Hultholia), and make 75 new nomenclatural combinations in this new generic system.
["Mimosoideae-Caesalpinieae-Cassieae clade"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

A molecular phylogeny of Caraganeae (Leguminosae, Papilionoideae) reveals insights into new generic and infrageneric delimitations
Based on sequence data of nuclear ITS and plastid matK, trnL-F and psbA-trnH markers, the phylogeny of the subtribes Caraganinae and Chesneyinae in tribe Caraganeae was inferred. The results support the monophyly of each of the subtribes. Within subtribes Caraganinae, Calophaca and Halimodendron are herein transferred into Caragana to ensure its generic monophyly. The subtribe Chesneyinae is composed of four well-supported genera: Chesneya, Chesniella, Gueldenstaedtia and Tibetia. Based on phylogenetic, morphological, distributional and habitat type evidence, the genus Chesneya was divided into three monophyletic sections: C. sect. Chesneya, C. sect. Pulvinatae and C. sect. Spinosae. Chesneya macrantha is herein transferred into Chesniella. Spongiocarpella is polyphyletic and its generic rank is not maintained. The position of Chesneya was incongruent in the nuclear ITS and the plastid trees. A paternal chloroplast capture event via introgression is hypothesized for the origin of Chesneya, which is postulated to have involved the common ancestor of Chesniella (♂) and that of the Gueldenstaedtia – Tibetia (GUT) clade (♀) as the parents.
["Caragana"]

Molecular and morphological evidence for recognition of two species within Harpagonella (Amsinckiinae, Boraginaceae)
Recent taxonomic treatments of the genus Harpagonella have included only one lower taxon, H. palmeri A. Gray. However, a larger-fruited variety of H. palmeri from Arizona and Sonora was described by I.M. Johnston in 1924. He continued to recognize this taxon – H. palmeri var. arizonica – in his treatment of the genus in Kearney and Peebles’s Arizona Flora in 1960. Here, we provide two lines of molecular evidence and quantitative morphological evidence from calyx characters showing that plants of Harpagonella from Arizona, Sonora, and central Baja California, corresponding to Johnston’s var. arizonica, are distinct from H. palmeri of southern California and Baja California. We make the new combination Harpagonella arizonica (I.M. Johnston) Guilliams & B.G. Baldwin, comb. nov. for the plants from Arizona, Sonora, and central Baja California.
["Amsinckiinae"]

Oenanthe millefolia (Umbelliferae), a new species record for the Turkish and Greek Flora
Oenanthe millefolia (Apiaceae), which is presented as a new recorded species for the Turkish flora, was discovered for the first time in Kırklareli province of Turkey. It is also reported as a new species for the Greek flora based on an unidentified specimen which was collected from the Thrace region of Greece. In this study, an expanded morphological description, the geographical distribution, the habitat properties and the ecological features of the species are exhibited with illustrative figures. Moreover, the micromorphological and anatomical characters of the fruits and the anatomical properties of the stem, petiole, leaves and the palynological features of Oe. millefolia are determined and described for the first time.
["Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity", "Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Flora-On: Occurrence data of the vascular flora of mainland Portugal
The Flora-On dataset currently includes 253,310 occurrence records for the class Embryopsidae (vascular plants), comprising data collated via the platform http://flora-on.pt/ relating to observation records of vascular plants across mainland Portugal. Observations are uploaded directly to the database primarily by experienced botanists and naturalists, typically on a weekly basis, and consist of geo-referenced data points for species (or infraspecific taxa) along with their date of observation and phenological state. The Flora-On project aims to compile and make publicly accessible chorological, ecological, morphological and photographic information for the entire vascular flora of Portugal. The project’s website offers powerful query and visualization capabilities, of which we highlight the probabilistic bioclimatic and phenological queries which operate based on the empirical density distributions of species in those variables. Flora-On was created and continues to be maintained by volunteers who are Associate members of Sociedade Portuguesa de Botânica (Botanical Society of Portugal). Given its focus on research-grade and current data, the Flora-On project represents a significant contribution to the knowledge of the present distribution and status of the Portuguese flora.
["Portugal"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

A nonet of novel species of Monanthotaxis (Annonaceae) from around Africa
As part of an ongoing revision of the genus Monanthotaxis Baill. (Annonaceae), nine new species are described and one variety is reinstated to species rank. Two new species from West Africa (Monanthotaxis aquila P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov. and Monanthotaxis atewensis P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov.), four new species from Central Africa (Monanthotaxis couvreurii P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov., Monanthotaxis latistamina P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov., Monanthotaxis tripetala P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov. and Monanthotaxis zenkeri P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov.), one new species from Tanzania (Monanthotaxis filipes P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov.), one new species from the area around Maputo (Monanthotaxis maputensis P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov.), one new species from the Comoro Islands (Monanthotaxis komorensis P.H.Hoekstra, sp. nov.) and Monanthotaxis klainei (Engl.) Verdc. var. angustifolia (Boutique) Verdc. is raised to species level leading to the replacement name Monanthotaxis atopostema P.H.Hoekstra, nom. nov. (not Monanthotaxis angustifolia (Exell) Verdc.). Complete descriptions, comparisons with related species, ecological information and IUCN conservation assessments are given for the new species. Five species were classified as critical endangered, two species as endangered, one as vulnerable and one as least concern, warranting the need of further collecting and studying those species.
["Monanthotaxis"]

Melicope oppenheimeri, section Pelea (Rutaceae), a new species from West Maui, Hawaiian Islands: with notes on its ecology, conservation, and phylogenetic placement
Melicope oppenheimeri K.R. Wood, Appelhans & W.L. Wagner (section Pelea (A. Gray) Hook. f., Rutaceae), a rare endemic tree from West Maui, Hawaiian Islands, is described and illustrated with notes on its ecology, conservation, and phylogenetic placement. The new species differs from Hawaiian congeners by its carpels basally connate 1/5, narrowed into a strongly reflexed beak 10–15 mm long. It also differs in a combination of leaves with 7–10 pair of secondary veins; cymes to 3 cm long; peduncles 5–6.5 mm long; flowers perfect; capsules 4–9 × 40–52 mm; and a densely appressed short-sericeous ovary. Melicope oppenheimeri is known only from an isolated cliff-base plateau in upper Waihe‘e Valley, West Maui. Its discovery brings the number of recognized Melicope J.R. Forst. & G. Forst. species in the Hawaiian Islands to 49. A table is included indicating the conservation status of Hawaiian Melicope and Platydesma H. Mann., which is nested within Melicope sect. Pelea. Melicope oppenheimeri falls into the IUCN Critically Endangered (CR) Red List category.
["Rutaceae"]

Tulipa cinnabarina subsp. toprakii (Liliaceae), a new subspecies from southwestern Anatolia
A new subpecies, Tulipa cinnabarina subsp. toprakiisubsp. nov. (Liliaceae) from Turkey is described. Diagnostic characters, descriptions, detailed illustrations, geographical distribution, conservation status and ecological observations on the new taxon are provided. It is also compared with the closely related Tulipa cinnabarina subsp. cinnabarina.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Onosma anatolica, a new species of Boraginaceae from Turkey
Onosma anatolica Binzet, is described and illustrated as a new species from Niğde province in southern Anatolia, Turkey. It belongs to sect. Onosma L. subsect. Asterotricha (Boiss.) Gürke. The new species is closely related to Onosma subulifolia Riedl from which it is distinguished. O. anatolica is readily distinguished from O. subulifolia by its sterile shoots, the green-grey stem indumentum, longer bracts, yellow and puberulous petals. The IUCN threat category of O. anatolica is determined as “CR (Critically Endangered)”. A distribution map and anidentification key for O. anatolica and O. subulifolia supplement the study.

Lithocarpus dahuoaiensis (Fagaceae), a new species from Lam Dong Province, Vietnam
Lithocarpus dahuoaiensis Ngoc & L. V. Dung, a new species from the Central highland of Vietnam, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to Lithocarpus macphailii (M. R. Hend.) Barnett or Lithocarpus encleisocarpus (Korth.) A. Camus in having completely entire leaf margin, solitary cupule, long stalks of fruits, deeply cup-shaped or turbinate cupules, with a number of horizontal filiform lines. The species differs in its nut enclosure ca. 1/2 – 2/3 of the nut, adaxially glabrous leaf blades, secondary veins 11–12 pairs and faintly to very faintly visible hairs on the outside of the cupule. A table showing the morphological comparison of Lithocarpus dahuoaiensis with Lithocarpus macphailii and Lithocarpus encleisocarpus is also provided.
["Da Huoai"]

Anatomical and morphological spine variation in Gymnocalycium kieslingii subsp. castaneum (Cactaceae)
Although spine variation within cacti species or populations is assumed to be large, the minimum sample size of different spine anatomical and morphological traits required for species description is less studied. There are studies where only 2 spines were used for taxonomical comparison amnog species. Therefore, the spine structure variation within areoles and individuals of one population of Gymnocalycium kieslingii subsp. castaneum (Ferrari) Slaba was analyzed. Fifteen plants were selected and from each plant one areole from the basal, middle and upper part of the plant body was sampled. A scanning electron microscopy was used for spine surface description and a light microscopy for measurements of spine width, thickness, cross-section area, fiber diameter and fiber cell wall thickness. The spine surface was more visible and damaged less in the upper part of the plant body than in the basal part. Large spine and fiber differences were found between upper and lower parts of the plant body, but also within single areoles. In general, the examined traits in the upper part had by 8–17% higher values than in the lower parts. The variation of spine and fiber traits within areoles was lower than the differences between individuals. The minimum sample size was largely influenced by the studied spine and fiber traits, ranging from 1 to 70 spines. The results provide pioneer information useful in spine sample collection in the field for taxonomical, biomechanical and structural studies. Nevertheless, similar studies should be carried out for other cacti species to make generalizations. The large spine and fiber variation within areoles observed in our study indicates a very complex spine morphogenesis.
["Areole"]
["Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Jasminanthes xuanlienensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), a new species from Vietnam
Jasminanthes xuanlienensis (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), a new species from Vietnam is described, illustrated and compared with its five congeners. Jasminanthes xuanlienensis differs distinctly from congeners by the longer peduncles (14–18 cm vs. 4 cm at most in J. pilosa and J. saxatilis, salmon-pink color of the inner corolla lobes (white or greenish in the other species), and corolla tube length (12.0–14.5 mm vs. shorter or longer in congeners).
["Marsdenieae"]

Diplycosia platyphylla (Ericaceae), a new species from Mindanao, Philippines
Diplycosia platyphylla P.W.Fritsch, a new species from Mindanao Island, Philippines, is described and illustrated. This species is most similar to the Bornean D. urceolata but differs by its green or slightly flushed pink petioles 4–7 mm long, wider leaf blades, acute calyx lobe apices, and lavender mature fruiting calyx. The new species is known only from a single collection made from Mount Apo in North Cotabato Province, southern Mindanao.
["Diplycosia"]

Alysicarpus poklianus (Fabaceae, Desmodieae), a new species from India
A new species, Alysicarpus poklianus Gholami & Pandey from Sinhgarh, Maharashtra, India is described. It is morphologically most similar to A. hamosus but differs in having ovate leaves, rounded-ovate bracts, larger size of calyx, pods comprising 5–7 longer than broad joints with easily separable septa. In this study, a comprehensive description, and identification key of A. poklianus are provided.
["Alysicarpus"]
["Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Vegetation and fire in lowland dry forest at Wa’ahila Ridge on O’ahu, Hawai’i
Long-term ecological studies are critical for providing key insights in ecology, environmental change, natural resource management and biodiversity conservation. However, island fire ecology is poorly understood. No previous studies are available that analyze vegetative changes in burned and unburned dry forest remnants on Wa’ahila Ridge, Hawai’i. This study investigates vegetation succession from 2008 to 2015, following a fire in 2007 which caused significant differences in species richness, plant density, and the frequency of woody, herb, grass, and lichens between burned and unburned sites. These findings infer that introduced plants have better competitive ability to occupy open canopy lands than native plants after fire. This study also illustrates the essential management need to prevent alien plant invasion, and to restore the native vegetation in lowland areas of the Hawaiian Islands by removing invasive species out-planting native plants after fire.
["Fire ecology"]
["Fire effects on ecosystems", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

Cirsium semzinanicum (Asteraceae), a new species from Hakkâri, Turkey
Cirsium semzinanicum sp. nov. (Asteraceae) is described as a new species from Hakkâri, Turkey. The new species is a part of the sect. Epitrachys (Cardueae) and similar to Cirsium karduchorum, from which it differs in morphological characters such as leaves, involucre, phyllaries, corolla, achens and pollen morphology. Geographical distribution, habitat and IUCN conservation status of this species are given.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

New species of Uvariopsis (Annonaceae) and Laccosperma (Arecaceae/Palmae) from Monts de Cristal, Gabon
Monts de Cristal National Park in northwest Gabon is one of the most species rich places in Central Africa. Here, we describe two new species, one in Annonaceae and one in palms. Uvariopsis citrata Couvreur & Niangadouma, sp. nov. is unique in the genus by emitting a strong lemon scent from the crushed leaves and young branches. Laccosperma cristalensis Couvreur & Niangadouma, sp. nov. is a rattan that lacks acanthophylls on the cirrus and has few pinnae. Complete descriptions, photographic illustrations, ecological information and preliminary IUCN conservation status are provided. For both species a data deficient (DD) status is proposed. These new species underline once again that the Monts de Cristal National Park is yet incompletely known botanically.

A Monograph of Conostegia (Melastomataceae, Miconieae)
A recent molecular phylogenetic analysis identified a clade containing all species of Conostegia, but that also included species of Clidemia and Miconia nested inside. A taxonomic revision of a more broadly circumscribed Conostegia is presented here. In total, 77 species of Conostegia are recognized. One species from Ecuador, C. ortizae is described as new. Twenty-nine new combinations are proposed for the species of Clidemia and Miconia that fall inside Conostegia. Two new names are proposed for the two species for which the epithet was previously occupied in Conostegia. An infrageneric classification of Conostegia is proposed recognizing three sections based on the results of the molecular phylogeny. This taxonomic revision includes ample documentation of the anatomy and morphology of most species in the genus, taxonomic descriptions, a dichotomous key, and distribution maps for all species.
["Conostegia"]

A revision of the “African Non-Spiny” Clade of Solanum L. (Solanum sections Afrosolanum Bitter, Benderianum Bitter, Lemurisolanum Bitter, Lyciosolanum Bitter, Macronesiotes Bitter, and Quadrangulare Bitter: Solanaceae)
The African Non-Spiny (ANS) clade contains 14 species of mostly large canopy lianas or scandent shrubs confined to Madagascar (10) and continental Africa (4, with with one species reaching the southern Arabian peninsula). Members of the clade were previously classified in sections Afrosolanum Bitter, Benderianum Bitter, Lemurisolanum Bitter, Macronesiotes Bitter and Quadrangulare Bitter, and were throught to be related to a variety of New World groups. The group is an early-branching lineage of non-spiny solanums and characters shared with other vining New World solanums are homoplastic. The 14 species of the group occupy a wide range of habitats, from wet forests in western Africa to savanna and dry forests of southern Madagascar and dune habitats in South Africa. Many members of the group are highly variable morphologically, and habit can vary between shrub and canopy vine in a single locality. We here review the taxonomic history, morphology, potential relationships and ecology of these species; we provide keys for their identification, descriptions, full synonymy (including designations of lectotypes and neotypes) and nomenclatural notes. Illustrations, distribution maps and preliminary conservation assessments are provided for all species.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Popowia bachmaensis (Annonaceae), a new species from Bach Ma National Park, Central Vietnam
A new species, Popowia bachmaensis Ngoc, Tagane & Yahara, sp. nov. is described from Bach Ma National Park in Thua Thien Hue Province, Central Vietnam. This species is morphologically similar to Popowia pisocarpa (Blume) Endl. ex Walp., but can be readily distinguished from it by its lower stems, smaller leaves, shorter flowering pedicels, shorter carpels, longer sepals and inner petals. A detailed description, comprising illustrations, and supplemented with DNA barcodes of the two regions of rbcL and matK, are provided.

An updated checklist and key to the open-panicled species of Poa L. (Poaceae) in Peru including three new species, Poa ramoniana, Poa tayacajaensis, and Poa urubambensis
We provide an updated checklist and key to the 30 Poa species with open panicles from Peru which includes previously circumscribed Dissanthelium and Aphanelytrum species, new taxon records, and three undescribed species. Poa compressa, P. grisebachii, and P. leioclada are recorded from Peru for the first time. A number of species are placed in synonymy: Poa carazensis, P. ferreyrae and P. tovarii are synonymized under the name P. fibrifera; Poa adusta (tentatively) and P. pilgeri are synonymized under P. candamoana; Poa superata is synonymized under P. grisebachii; and Poa paramoensis is synonymized under P. huancavelicae. Included within this treatment are three new species, Poa ramoniana, P. tayacajaensis and P. urubambensis, which are described and illustrated. Poa ramoniana, found growing near lakes in high elevation Puna grasslands of Junín, is similar to a small form of P. glaberrima, but differs in having rhizomes and growing to only 5 cm tall. Poa tayacajaensis, found from shrublands on Andean slopes of Huancavelica and Huánuco, bears similarities to Poa aequatoriensis but differs in having shorter lemmas which are pubescent between the veins, densely scabrous sheaths with smooth, glabrous throats, and shorter ligules. Poa urubambensis, a common element of the undisturbed Polylepis forest understory of the Cordillera Urubamba, Cusco, is distinct from all other members of open-panicled Poa’s by having glabrous lemmas with a smooth and glabrous callus, and notably small anthers. The type material for the name Poa adusta is discussed and a lectotype is selected.

Bulbophyllum pingnanense (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae, Dendrobiinae), a new species from Fujian, China
A new orchid species, Bulbophyllum pingnanense, is described and illustrated from Fujian, China. It is similar to B. brevipedunculatum and B. albociliatum in vegetative and floral morphology, but it can be distinguished from B. brevipedunculatum by having a longer dorsal sepal with longer white ciliate on margin, longer and lanceolate lateral sepals, and a glabrous lip. It can be distinguished from B. albociliatum by having a shorter inflorescence, and a longer dorsal sepal.
["Bulbophyllum"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Biological and pharmacological studies of plants", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Cephalaria anamurensis (Caprifoliaceae), a new species from south Anatolia, Turkey
A new species, Cephalaria anamurensis (Caprifoliaceae) is described and illustrated from south Anatolia, Turkey. The species grows on steppe and stony places in Anamur (C4 Mersin province) in south Anatolia. Diagnostic morphological characters from closely similar taxa are discussed. The geographical distribution of the new species and two closely related species in Turkey are mapped.
["Cephalaria"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Flora of Bokor National Park V: Two new species of Machilus (Lauraceae), M. bokorensis and M. brevipaniculata
Two new species, Machilus bokorensis Yahara & Tagane and M. brevipaniculata Yahara & Tagane (Lauraceae) are described from Bokor National Park, Cambodia with their illustrations and DNA barcodes of the two plastid regions of rbcL and matK and the nuclear region of ITS.
["Bokor National Park"]

A new species of Eustigma (Hamamelidaceae) from Hon Ba Nature Reserve, Vietnam
A new species of Hamamelidaceae, Eustigma honbaense H.Toyama, Tagane & V.S.Dang, sp. nov., is described from Hon Ba Nature Reserve, Vietnam. This species is similar to Eustigma oblongifolium Gardner & Champ., but differs from it in having entire leaves, longer infructescences, capsules with a longer apical part and seeds with a larger hilum. A description, preliminary conservation assessment, illustration and photographs of the new species are provided, as well as an updated key to the genus Eustigma.

A new species of Amphitecna (Bignoniaceae) endemic to Chiapas, Mexico
Amphitecna loreae Ortiz-Rodr. & Burelo, sp. nov. (Bignoniaceae), a new species endemic to the karst rainforest in southern Mexico, is described and illustrated. The new species differs from the other species of Amphitecna by the combination of cauliflorous inflorescences, larger flowers, buds rounded at apex, and globose-ellipsoid rather than acuminate fruits. A key to the Mexican species of Amphitecna is presented.
["Crescentieae"]

A brief botanical survey into Kumbira forest, an isolated patch of Guineo-Congolian biome
Kumbira forest is a discrete patch of moist forest of Guineo-Congolian biome in Western Angola central scarp and runs through Cuanza Norte and Cuanza Sul province. The project aimed to document the floristic diversity of the Angolan escarpment, a combination of general walk-over survey, plant specimen collection and sight observation was used to aid the characterization of the vegetation. Over 100 plant specimens in flower or fruit were collected within four identified vegetation types. The list of species includes two new records of Guineo-Congolian species in Angola, one new record for the country and one potential new species.
["Kumbira forest"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant and animal studies"]

The Andean Paepalanthus pilosus complex (Eriocaulaceae): a revision with three new taxa
A herbarium-based revision is provided for Paepalanthus pilosus and allies, five commonly confused species of cushion plants native to Andean paramo. These are placed in the recircumscribed Paepalanthus subsect. Cryptanthella Suess. The group includes P. pilosus, P. dendroides, and P. lodiculoides. An additional two species and one variety are newly described: Paepalanthus caryonauta, P. huancabambensis, and P. pilosus var. leoniae. The latter two are Peruvian endemics, while P. caryonauta is known from four countries, and has long been confused with other species. An additional, possibly undescribed taxon is noted from the Serrania de Perijá, Colombia. Five new synonyms and three lectotypes are proposed, and the common misapplication of some names is noted. Within the P. pilosus complex, species differences were found in timing of peduncle elongation, sex ratio, and leaf, perianth, diaspore and nectary morphology. Ecological differences are suggested by specimen data and a review of ecological literature. Descriptions, photographs and maps are provided for all species, as is a key to the groups of eriocaulaceous cushion plants from Andean South America.
["Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

A revision of Poa subsection Aphanelytrum (Poaceae, Pooideae, Poaeae, Poinae); and a new species, Poa auriculata
In this study the peculiar Andean grass genus Aphanelytrum, with two species, is reduced to Poa subsect. Aphanelytrumcomb. & stat. nov. A third species, Festuca reclinata, is assigned to the subsection, which shows states transitional between a more typical Poa and Aphanelytrum. Poa subgen. Poa supersect. Homalopoa sect. Dioicopoa subsect. Aphanelytrumcomb. & stat. nov. is characterized in having stooling perennials with decumbent to spreading culm bases that continuously branch and often root at low to mid-culm nodes, glabrous spikelets with long rachillas 1.2–4.2 mm long, short glumes less than ½ the length of the florets, and lemmas with bifid apexes that are mucronate to short-awned. We provide for the three species taxonomic discussions, morphological and anatomical descriptions, keys, illustrations, and a list of specimens. Also, we provide two new names, Poa hitchcockiana nom. nov. and Poa sanchez-vegae nom. nov., and one new combination, Poa reclinata comb. nov. A new species, Poa auriculata sp. nov. from Peru, not thought to be a member of P. subsect. Aphanelytrum, is presented. It is the first in the genus with prominent auricles. In addition, we place Poa apiculata in Poa subgen. Poa supersect. Homalopoa sect. Dioicopoa subsect. Tovarochloacomb. & stat. nov.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

A new species of Clinanthus from northern Peru (Asparagales, Amaryllidaceae, Amarylloideae, Clinantheae)
Clinanthus milagroanthus S. Leiva & Meerow, sp. nov. is described from the Department of La Libertad in Peru. The new species is most closely related to C. mirabilis (Ravenna) Meerow, with further affinities to C. viridiflorus (R. & P.) Meerow. It can be distinguished from C. mirabilis by its wider leaves, the much more brightly colored and wide spreading limb, and the much lighter colored perigone tube (yellowish green vs. dark green in C. mirabilis). A conspicuous bulge just proximal to the midpoint of the tube is a unique character of the new species.
["Geophyte"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Banana Cultivation and Research", "Nematode management and characterization studies"]

New combinations in Odontostemma (Caryophyllaceae)
Sixty-three new combinations in Odontostemma (Alsineae, Caryophyllaceae) are made to accommodate placement of all currently recognized taxa of Arenaria subg. Odontostemma within the genus Odontostemma.
["Odontostemma"]

A new species in the tree genus Polyceratocarpus (Annonaceae) from the Udzungwa Mountains of Tanzania
Polyceratocarpus askhambryan-iringae, an endemic tree species of Annonaceae from the Udzungwa Mountains of Tanzania, is described and illustrated. The new species is identified as a member of the genus Polyceratocarpus by the combination of staminate and bisexual flowers, axillary inflorescences, subequal outer and inner petals, and multi-seeded monocarps with pitted seeds. From P. scheffleri, with which it has previously been confused, it differs in the longer pedicels, smaller and thinner petals, shorter bracts, and by generally smaller, less curved monocarps that have a clear stipe and usually have fewer seeds. Because P. askhambryan-iringae has a restricted extent of occurrence, area of occupancy, and ongoing degradation of its forest habitat, we recommend classification of it as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List.

Molecular and morphological evidence for Penstemon luculentus (Plantaginaceae): a replacement name for Penstemon fremontii var. glabrescens
Penstemon luculentus R.L.Johnson & M.R.Stevens, nom. nov. replaces Penstemon fremontii var. glabrescens Dorn & Lichvar. The varietal name glabrescens was not elevated because it was already occupied by Penstemon glabrescens Pennell, a different species. This new arrangement is supported by molecular and morphological evidence. An analysis of genetic diversity in populations of both varieties of P. fremontii Torr. & A. Gray (glabrescens and fremontii) from the Piceance Basin, Colorado, using SSR (simple sequences repeats) or microsatellites markers, revealed significant genetic differentiation between the two. Penstemon fremontii var. glabrescens was also genetically different from P. gibbensii Dorn and P. scariosus var. garrettii (Pennell) N.H. Holmgren. The combination of hirtellous stems, glabrous leaves, non-glandular inflorescence, and long anther hairs distinguish P. luculentus from other morphologically similar species.
["Colorado"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Spiradiclis pengshuiensis (Ophiorrhizeae, Rubioideae), a new species from Chongqing, China
Spiradiclis pengshuiensis Bo Pan & R. J. Wang (Rubiaceae) is described as a new species from Chongqing in SW China. It is morphologically compared with S. pauciflora L. Wu & Q. R. Liu because of their similarities in habit, pubescent surface, small leaf laminas and subglobose capsules. Its conservation status is evaluated as “VU” according to the IUCN categories and criteria.

Miconia papillosperma (Melastomataceae, Miconieae): a new species from Amazonas, Brazil
Miconia papillosperma, a new species of Melastomataceae shrubs from Northern Brazil is described and illustrated. This new species is characterized by elliptic lanceolate leaves with the only pair of secondary veins running close to the margin. It is also unique in having seeds with a papillose testa, a character until now unknown in the Miconieae. The description of this new species from a relatively well collected area near a major road north of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, is further evidence of our lack of knowledge on plants in many Neotropical areas.
["Clidemia"]

New functionally dioecious bush tomato from northwestern Australia, Solanum ossicruentum, may utilize “trample burr” dispersal
A new Australian species of functionally dioecious bush tomato of Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum is described. Solanum ossicruentum Martine & J.Cantley, sp. nov., is thought to be allied with members of the problematic “Dioicum Complex” lineage, but differs in its short silvery indumentum, long calyx lobes, larger stature, and an unusual fruit morphology that may represent “trample burr” seed dispersal. The species occurs in a range extending from the eastern Kimberley in Western Australia to far northwestern Northern Territory and has been recognized for decades as a variant of S. dioicum W.Fitzg. Specimens of this species were previously referred to by D.E. Symon and others as Solanum dioicum ‘Tanami.’ Ex situ crossing studies and SEM images of inaperturate pollen grains produced in morphologically hermaphrodite flowers indicate that this taxon is functionally dioecious. The scientific name was chosen with the help of 150 seventh grade life science students from Pennsylvania, USA.
["Bush tomato"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

The rediscovery of the Great Winterberg endemic Lotononis harveyi B.–E.van Wyk after 147 years, and notes on the poorly known Amathole endemic Macowania revoluta Oliv. (southern Great Escarpment, South Africa)
South Africa’s 800 km-long southern Great Escarpment hosts numerous endemic plant species only known from their type specimens or from very few records. This is a legacy of a 100–150 year lag between the pioneer work of 19th century botanists and repeat fieldwork in the 21st century. As a result, population and ecological data are lacking for many local endemic species. Here we report on the rediscovery of Lotononis harveyi B.–E.van Wyk 147 years after its original description, and provide the first detailed ecological notes on the poorly known shrub Macowania revoluta Oliv. Both species are locally endemic to the Great Winterberg–Amatholes (Eastern Cape Province). With only six known individuals, L. harveyi is recommended the conservation status of Critically Endangered, with fire (and potentially grazing) being the main population constraints. Macowania revoluta is locally abundant, and it is surprising that it has been so poorly collected in recent decades. It occupies an important local niche as a keystone montane wetland species, and its narrow distribution range – combined with pressure from woody alien invasive species – suggests that its conservation status should be Rare. The research further highlights the need for continued biodiversity field research along South Africa’s poorly explored Great Escarpment.
["Lotononis"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

Oenanthe incrassans: An enigmatic species from Turkey and its comparison with Oenanthe pimpinelloides (Apiaceae)
Oenanthe incrassans (Apiaceae) was discovered in Istanbul, Turkey. It is related to Oenanthe pimpinelloides, but it clearly differs in terms of leaves, inflorescence (ray, bracts, and bracteoles) and fruit features. A taxonomic description, some photographs of the species, geographical distribution and habitat features are given. Additionally, fruit micromorphology, stem, ray and fruit anatomy, and pollen features are studied for the first time and compared to Oenanthe pimpinelloides.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity", "Plant chemical constituents analysis"]

Selliguea kachinensis (Polypodiaceae), a new fern species of uncertain affinity from Northern Myanmar
We describe Selliguea kachinensis as a new species from Northern Myanmar and discuss its generic placement in either Selliguea or Arthromeris. The conservation status is assessed as Data Deficient. In addition, we make the new combination Selliguea erythrocarpa (Mett. ex Kuhn) Hovenkamp, S. Linds., Fraser-Jenk.

Cardamine occulta, the correct species name for invasive Asian plants previously classified as C. flexuosa, and its occurrence in Europe
The nomenclature of Eastern Asian populations traditionally assigned to Cardamine flexuosa has remained unresolved since 2006, when they were found to be distinct from the European species C. flexuosa. Apart from the informal designation “Asian C. flexuosa”, this taxon has also been reported under the names C. flexuosa subsp. debilis or C. hamiltonii. Here we determine its correct species name to be C. occulta and present a nomenclatural survey of all relevant species names. A lectotype and epitype for C. occulta and a neotype for the illegitimate name C. debilis (replaced by C. flexuosa subsp. debilis and C. hamiltonii) are designated here. Cardamine occulta is a polyploid weed that most likely originated in Eastern Asia, but it has also been introduced to other continents, including Europe. Here data is presented on the first records of this invasive species in European countries. The first known record for Europe was made in Spain in 1993, and since then its occurrence has been reported from a number of European countries and regions as growing in irrigated anthropogenic habitats, such as paddy fields or flower beds, and exceptionally also in natural communities such as lake shores.
["Asian Cardamine flexuosa"]
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Lachemilla mexiquense (Rosaceae), a new species from Mexico
A new species of Lachemilla (Rosaceae), Lachemilla mexiquense D.F. Morales-B., from Mexico is described and illustrated. This species is similar to Lachemilla aphanoides by its tripartite leaves and glomerulate inflorescence with entirely glabrous flowers, but it differs by its stonoliferous habit, persistent basal leaves and basal stipules, and smaller flowers with a campanulate-elongate hypanthium and single carpel. A key to the species of Lachemilla in Mexico is provided.
["Lachemilla"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

New distribution records of two bamboo species in Yunnan, China with description of the inflorescence for Melocalamus yunnanensis (Poaceae, Bambusoideae)
Ampelocalamus actinotrichus (Merrill & Chun) S. L. Chen, T. H. Wen & G. Y. Sheng and Neomicrocalamus prainii (Gamble) P. C. Keng are reported with new distribution records in southern and southeastern Yunnan, China, respectively. Ampelocalamus actinotrichus was previously recorded to be endemic to Hainan, China, and Neomicrocalamus prainii to be distributed in southern Tibet and western Yunnan in China, northeastern India, and Burma. The identities of individuals collected in southern and southeastern Yunnan of these two species are confirmed by molecular evidence. The new distribution record of Ampelocalamus actinotrichus provides a case at the species level for confirming floristic affinities of southern Yunnan and Hainan Island in south China. The disjunct distribution of Neomicrocalamus prainii in Yunnan is concordant with the ecogeographical diagonal line from northwestern Yunnan to southeastern Yunnan and this may imply a tropical origin of this species. In addition, the inflorescence of Melocalamus yunnanensis (T. H. Wen) T. P. Yi is described.
["Ampelocalamus"]

Callicarpa bachmaensis Soejima & Tagane (Lamiaceae), a new species from Bach Ma National Park in Thua Thien Hue Province, Central Vietnam
A new species, Callicarpa bachmaensis Soejima & Tagane, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Bach Ma National Park in Thua Thien Hue Province, Central Vietnam. This species has a characteristic liana habit, white corolla, and narrowly elliptic to narrowly lanceolate, entire, occasionally subequal leaves, by which it is clearly distinguished from the other previously known species of this genus.
["Bach Ma National Park"]

Elaeocarpus firdausii (Elaeocarpaceae), a new species from tropical mountain forests of Sulawesi
Based on ongoing ecological research in mountain forests of Sulawesi, a new species, Elaeocarpus firdausii Brambach, Coode, Biagioni & Culmsee, sp. nov. is described and illustrated from mossy forests at > 2000 m and information provided on the species’ distribution, ecology and pollen morphology. Elaeocarpus firdausii is similar to E. luteolignum Coode but differs from the latter in having glabrous terminal buds, leaves with black gland dots, 4-merous, larger flowers, and more numerous stamens.
["Elaeocarpus"]

Sonerila nairii (Melastomataceae) – a new species from the southern Western Ghats, India
The new species Sonerila nairii (Melastomataceae) is here described from Pothumala of the Nelliampathy hill ranges of Western Ghats of Kerala, India. Morphologically it most closely resembles Sonerila erecta and Sonerila pulneyensis from which differs by the form of the stem, leaves, peduncle, pedicel, inflorescence, pubescence of the stem, leaves and hypanthium, and by the form of stamens and stigma.
["Sonerila"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Two new combinations in Euploca Nutt. (Heliotropiaceae, Boraginales) and a conspectus of the species of the Guiana Shield area
Heliotropium foliatum and Tournefortia humilis are transferred to Euploca Nutt. respectively as Euploca foliata comb. n. and Euploca humilis comb. n. A collection from Guyana has been recently identified as Euploca humistrata, a species previously considered a Brazilian endemic. A collection from French Guiana documents for the first time the species in that country. A key to the species of the Guiana Shield area is given. The species of Euploca from the Guiana Shield are listed with synonymy and a brief description: E. filiformis, E. humilis, E. humistrata, E. lagoensis, E. polyphylla, E. procumbens.
["Boraginales"]

Solanum lagoense (Solanaceae, Geminata clade), a new species from Lagoa Santa, Minas Gerais State, Brazil
A new species of Solanum (Solanaceae) from the Geminata clade is described for the Brazilian flora. S. lagoense Stehmann is only known from Lapinha, a rocky massif located in the Lagoa Santa karst region of Minas Gerais State. The flora of this area, including Solanaceae, was studied in detail in the second half of the 19th century by the Danish botanist Eugene Warming. The species differs from other members of the Geminata clade in Brazil in its geminate leaves of different sizes, simple multicellular trichomes present on the new growth and young stems, short extra-axillary inflorescences with few (1-3) flowers, and its stellate corollas with cucullate and strongly reflexed lobes. Here we present a description, taxonomic comments and a preliminary assessment of conservation status of this critically endangered species.
["Eugene Warming"]

Trachelomonas bituricensis var. lotharingia M.L. Poucques 1952, a morphologically interesting, rare euglenoid new to the algal flora of the Czech Republic
This report describes the discovery of the rare euglenoid taxon Trachelomonas bituricensis var. lotharingia in a small mesotrophic pond in the Czech Republic. Only limited data are available on the distribution of this taxon as same as for typical variety of Trachelomonas bituricensis, even though this taxon is morphologically very well defined. I provide a brief discussion of the taxonomic validity of this taxon based only on morphological features, which are characteristic for the taxonomy of the genus Trachelomonas. This finding is completely new for the algal flora of the Czech Republic. This report provides new information about the worldwide distribution of this taxon and its ecology.
["Czech Republic"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African orchids 5. A new species of Angraecum sect. Conchoglossum (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae) from Gabon and Cameroon
Recent field inventories and taxonomic research in Central Africa have resulted in the discovery of many new orchid species. Five specimens of an apparently new Angraecum species were collected in Gabon and Cameroon. They stand out for their hanging habit and short zig-zag stem. Morphology of leaves and habit is somewhat comparable to A. cultriforme and A. stolzii, two species from East Africa. Flowers of the novelty share the general morphology of A. pyriforme from which the new species is distinguished by being smaller and with a different lip-spur ratio. Here we show that these five specimens represent a new species, described here as Angraecum lanceolatum. The distinguishing traits include thin lanceolate leaves, convolute distally, with a rhombic lip shape. Dichotomous key to four Central African species of sect. Conchoglossum and a table of the diagnostic characters of the seven related Continental African Angraecum taxa are included here. A preliminary assessment of the conservation status of A. lanceolatum is provided, using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
["Angraecoid"]
["Plant and animal studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Eremogone ali-gulii (Caryophyllaceae), a new species from Turkey
Eremogone ali-gulii (Caryophyllaceae) is described as a new species of Eremogone in Turkey. The specimens were collected from Kop Mountain (Erzurum). The new species is endemic of the Irano-Turanian region and is related to Eremogone scariosa and E. armeniaca. The differences on sterile shoots, habit, sepals and capsules between these species are discussed. Description, distribution, illustration and conservation status of the new species are given.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

Four new orchid species from the Lengguru fold belt, West Papua, Indonesia
Bulbophyllum leucoglossum, Dendrobium centrosepalum, Dendrobium taeniocaule, and Taeniophyllum pyriforme are here described as new species, based on herbarium specimens collected from the Lengguru fold-and-thrust belt in the West Papua Bird’s neck, Indonesian New Guinea. All four novelties were found growing in submontane forest (elevation > 1000 m a.s.l.) on limestone karst. Information concerning the distribution and habitat for these taxa is provided along with diagnostic features, line drawings, high resolution photographs, and a map of collecting localities. More field studies are required to find additional populations of these new species, in order to better characterize their habitat, ecology and conservation status.
["Bulbophyllum"]

Liparis aphylla (Malaxideae, Orchidaceae), a new leafless record from Peru
Liparis aphylla G.A.Romero & Garay was previously known only from two herbarium specimens collected in 1945 and 1977 in Ecuador and Colombia, respectively. This little-known species is hereby reported for the first time for Peru. An updated description, line illustration, color photographs and distribution map of L. aphylla, as well as an identification key to the Peruvian species of Liparis are provided.
["Orchidaceae"]

Rafflesia consueloae (Rafflesiaceae), the smallest among giants; a new species from Luzon Island, Philippines
A new species of Rafflesia (Rafflesiaceae) from Luzon Island, Philippines, Rafflesia consueloae Galindon, Ong & Fernando, is described and illustrated. It is distinct from all other species of Rafflesia in its small-sized flowers, the upright perigone lobes, and prominently cream-white disk surface that is often devoid of processes. Its small-sized flowers, with an average diameter of 9.73 cm when fully expanded, make it the smallest of the largest flowers in the world.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and animal studies"]

Solanum watneyi, a new bush tomato species from the Northern Territory, Australia named for Mark Watney of the book and film “The Martian”
A new species of andromonoecious Solanum from the Australian “bush tomato clade” of Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum is described. Solanum watneyi Martine & Frawley, sp. nov. is closely allied with S. eburneum, and is sympatric with it in parts of its range in the Northern Territory. The new species has been recognized as a variant of S. eburneum for decades, at times being referred to by local botanists as Solanum sp. “Bullita” because of its relative abundance in the vicinity of the Bullita Station area of Judbarra/Gregory National Park. Morphometric analyses show that S. watneyi differs statistically from S. eburneum in several key reproductive and vegetative characters and field observations suggest that the two sister species may represent a case of edaphic speciation. We provide morphometric evidence for the novelty of S. watneyi, a complete description, and cite specimens for both species.
["Judbarra"]
["Plant Pathogens and Resistance", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Banana Cultivation and Research"]

Vernonieae (Asteraceae) of southern Africa: A generic disposition of the species and a study of their pollen
Current and previously included members of the Tribe Vernonieae (Asteraceae) of southern Africa are listed in their presently recognized genera with complete synonymies and keys to genera and species. The genus Vernonia, as presently delimited, does not occur in Africa. Genera of the Vernonieae presently recognized from southern Africa are Baccharoides, Bothriocline, Cyanthillium, Distephanus, Erlangea, Ethulia, Gymnanthemum, Hilliardiella, Oocephala, Orbivestus, Parapolydora, Polydora, Vernonella, Vernoniastrum, plus two genera that are named as new: Namibithamnus and Pseudopegolettia. Twelve new combinations are provided and two species, V. potamiphila and V. collinii Klatt., hom. illeg., remain unplaced because of a lack of material. Pollen types are illustrated including previously recognized types: non-lophate, sublophate, tricolporate lophate, and non-colpate triporate lophate. A type previously unknown in the Asteraceae is described here and in a separate paper for Oocephala and Polydora; a non-colpate pantoporate lophate type with pores not strictly equatorial.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Two new species of Siphocampylus (Campanulaceae, Lobelioideae) from the Central Andes
Two species of Siphocampylus (Campanulaceae: Lobelioideae) from the Central Andes of Peru and Bolivia are described, illustrated, and discussed with reference to related species. One species, Siphocampylus antonellii, is endemic to high elevation grasslands of Calca, Peru, while the second, S. siberiensis, is endemic to cloud forests of Cochabamba, Bolivia. Both species are robust shrubs that produce tubular pink flowers that are likely pollinated by hummingbirds.
["Andean biodiversity hotspot"]

Marrubium eriocephalum (Lamiaceae); a species new to the flora of Turkey, with contributions to its taxonomy
Marrubium eriocephalum (Lamiaceae) is described as a new record for the Flora of Turkey (B9 Van). A detailed morphological description, photographs, distribution map, and pollen and nutlet morphology of this new record are given.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Encyclia inopinata (Orchidaceae, Laeliinae) a new species from Mexico
A new species of Encyclia from Mexico, E. inopinata, is described and illustrated. This species is similar to E. diota but it can be distinguished by its usually more robust plants with 2–3 leaves per pseudobulb and its flowers with longer and narrower sepals (1.8±0.1 × 0.63±0.03 cm in E. inopinata versus 1.48 ±0.14 × 0.65±0.06 cm in E. diota) and petals (1.7±0.05 × 0.59±0.05 cm in E. inopinata vs. 1.36 ±0.19 × 0.81±0.13 cm in E. diota), and the labellum with narrower lateral lobes (0.18±0.02 cm in E. inopinata vs. 0.41±0.10 cm in E. diota). Other characters that differentiate these two species are the coriaceous sepals, pink callus, and white anther of Encyclia inopinata (versus fleshy-leathery sepals, white callus, and yellow anther of E. diota). The new species can be found in deciduous forests along the Pacific slope of Oaxaca state, near of the border with Guerrero state, at about 1200 m. It blooms between March and July.
["Encyclia"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity"]

Floristic survey of herbaceous and subshrubby aquatic and palustrine angiosperms of Viruá National Park, Roraima, Brazil
We provide and discuss a floristic survey of herbaceous and subshrubby aquatic and palustrine angiosperms of Viruá National Park (VNP). The VNP is located in the northern Amazon basin and displays phytophysiognomies distributed in a mosaic where these plants occur, as flooded forests, hydromorphic white-sand savannas, “buritizais” and waterbodies. After expeditions between February/2010 and January/2015 and the analysis of specimens from regional herbaria, we list 207 species of herbaceous and subshrubby aquatic and palustrine angiosperms for the VNP, distributed in 85 genera in 37 families. We recorded six new occurrences for Brazil, two for the northern Brazilian region and 21 for Roraima state. These new occurrences, added to the other species listed here, highlight the floristic similarity between the study site and the Guiana Shield, an adjacent phytogeographical unit and geologically related to the origin of white-sand savannas.

Homalium glandulosum (Salicaceae), a new species from Vu Quang National Park, North Central Vietnam
Homalium glandulosum Tagane & V. H. Nguyen, from Vu Quang National Park in northern Vietnam, is newly described. This species is characterized by distinct glands, often stalked, at the base of the lamina and along the margin of the stipules and bracteoles. Illustrations, DNA barcodes of the two regions of rbcL and matK, and a key to the species of Homalium in Vietnam are also provided.
["Homalium"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

A revision of the genus Osmoxylon (Araliaceae) in Palau, including two new species
Osmoxylon Miq. (Araliaceae) is revised for Palau, Micronesia including descriptions of two new taxa Osmoxylon leidichii Costion, sp. nov. and Osmoxylon ngardokense Costion, sp. nov. Full descriptions are provided for all four Palau species, along with diagnostic field keys.
["Pacific Islands"]

Novelties in Selaginella (Selaginellaceae – Lycopodiophyta), with emphasis on Brazilian species
In this paper, I describe five new species of Selaginella from Brazil (S. nanuzae, S. neospringiana, S. pellucidopunctata, S. stomatoloma, and S. trygonoides), compare them to morphologically similar species, and provide a preliminary conservation status assessment for each. The new species are illustrated with scanning electron photomicrographs of stem sections, leaves, and spores, when available. Also discussed in this paper are ten species, mainly from Brazil and with new distribution records, and the forthcoming resurrection of three species also occurring in Brazil. Three further non-native and presumed naturalized species are recognized in Brazil, and publication of one additional taxon is planned. Eighty-six Selaginella species are now known from Brazil and, of these, 80 are native (including 26 / 32.5%, endemic), and six are introduced. Brazil and Mexico have the second highest number of native Selaginella species in the Neotropics after Venezuela, which is estimated to have about 100. Of the newly documented species, S. cabrerensis is now known to occur in French Guiana, Brazil, and Bolivia, in addition to Colombia, and S. arroyoana and S. chiquitana are synonymized under it. Likewise, S. potaroensis is also recorded from Costa Rica and Brazil, and S. seemannii from Panama and Brazil. Finally, leaf marginal stomata are reported on the newly described species and their functionality is discussed under S. stomatoloma.
["Deforestation"]

The genus Fleischmannia in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil and Paraguay (Eupatorieae, Asteraceae)
Species of the genus Fleischmannia from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil and Paraguay are reviewed, and keys are provided that cover the species in each country. New taxa described are Fleischmannia hatschbachii, F. matogrosensis, F. microstemon var. paniculata from Brazil, F. hassleri from Paraguay and F. neei and F. steinbachii from Bolivia, and one new combination for a F. prasiifolia variety is provided. The additions bring the total known species of the genus to 102.
["Fleischmannia"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties"]

Aporosa tetragona Tagane & V. S. Dang (Phyllanthaceae), a new species from Mt. Hon Ba, Vietnam
A new species, Aporosa tetragona Tagane & V. S. Dang, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Mt. Hon Ba located in the Khanh Hoa Province, South Vietnam. This species is characterized by tetragonal pistillate flowers and fruits, which are clearly distinguishable from the other previously known species of the genus. The morphology and phylogeny based on rbcL and matK of this species indicated that the new species belongs to section Appendiculatae Pax & K. Hoffm.
["Aporosa"]

A new subspecies of Seseli gummiferum (Apiaceae) from Ilgaz Mountain National Park, northern Turkey
A new subspecies Seseli gummiferum Pall. ex Sm. subsp. ilgazense A.Duran, Ö.Çetin & M.Öztürk, subsp. nov. (Apiaceae) is described from Kastamonu province, Turkey. It was collected from the open Pinus sylvestris L. and Abies nordmanniana (Steven) É.Spach. mixed forest in the northern Anatolian region. An endemic apparently confined to the Ilgaz Mountain National Park, the new taxon is closely related to Seseli gummiferum subsp. gummiferum. Diagnostic morphological characters for closely similar taxa are discussed, and a key to the subspecies of Seseli gummiferum is presented. ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacer) region of the nuclear ribozomal DNA of closely related Seseli L. taxa and Pimpinella is used to constract phylogenetic tree by using BioEdit and Seaview Programme.
["Plant chemical constituents analysis", "Essential Oils and Antimicrobial Activity", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies"]

Dataset of MIGRAME Project (Global Change, Altitudinal Range Shift and Colonization of Degraded Habitats in Mediterranean Mountains)
In this data paper, we describe the dataset of the Global Change, Altitudinal Range Shift and Colonization of Degraded Habitats in Mediterranean Mountains (MIGRAME) project, which aims to assess the capacity of altitudinal migration and colonization of marginal habitats by Quercus pyrenaica Willd. forests in Sierra Nevada (southern Spain) considering two global-change drivers: temperature increase and land-use changes. The dataset includes information of the forest structure (diameter size, tree height, and abundance) of the Quercus pyrenaica ecosystem in Sierra Nevada obtained from 199 transects sampled at the treeline ecotone, mature forest, and marginal habitats (abandoned cropland and pine plantations). A total of 3839 occurrence records were collected and 5751 measurements recorded. The dataset is included in the Sierra Nevada Global-Change Observatory (OBSNEV), a long-term research project designed to compile socio-ecological information on the major ecosystem types in order to identify the impacts of global change in this mountain range.
["Quercus pyrenaica forests"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

A new species of Symplocos (Symplocaceae) from southern Ecuador
A new species from Ecuador, Symplocos limonensis, is here described and illustrated. It resembles S. clethrifolia but differs by having larger leaves with evident (i.e., not concealed) areoles on lower surface, sessile inflorescences, smaller white corollas, and fewer stamens. The species is only known from three collections in the Andean forests of Morona-Santiago Province in southern Ecuador.
["Symplocos"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Study of phylogenetic relationship of Turkish species of Klasea (Asteraceae) based on ISSR amplification
Klasea is a taxonomically complex genus in which there are many problems, mostly with Klasea kotschyi and K. hakkiarica. It is challenging to differentiate the genera based on morphological characters alone. Revision studies performed on the basis of molecular data obtained from studies conducted in recent years have made the phylogenetic relationships and systematic positions of the taxa more apparent and reliable. In this study, Klasea, Serratula, Jurinea and Centaurea species native to Turkey, were collected from different localities of Anatolia and DNA was isolated from the collected samples. The data were analyzed ordination analyses including UPGMA and PCA using NTSYSpc 2.1. The infrageneric and intergeneric phylogenetic relationships between Klasea and other related genera were also characterized. The Klasea species were grouped into three clusters. It was determined that taxa Klasea kotschyi and K. hakkiarica are separate but closely related. Moreover, it was observed that the Klasea lasiocephala a separate group within the genera. Clearly the genera Klasea, Serratula, Jurinea and Centaurea are phylogenetically differentiated on the dendogram.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

A new record of the rare alga Pachycladella P. C. Silva (Chlorophyceae) in New England
A rarely reported taxon, the microscopic green alga Pachycladella, was found in a pond in Connecticut. Due to an unresolved taxonomic debate within the genus, the species-level identity of the newly discovered population cannot be determined with absolute certainty. However, according to the currently accepted classification the Connecticut specimens best match Pachycladella zatoriensis, heretofore only known from Europe. The find represents not only the first record of Pachycladella in Connecticut, but also in the entire New England region. This study highlights the need for continuing floristic surveys even in regions previously well explored.
["Connecticut"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Problematic specimens turn out to be two undescribed species of Bignonia (Bignoniaceae)
Bignonia comprises 29 species of lianas characterized by eight phloem wedges, leaves usually 2-foliolate, mostly simple tendrils and opaque seed wings. The analysis of herbarium specimens in preparation for a taxonomic revision of the genus led to the recognition of two new species: (i) Bignonia cararensis from Costa Rica, characterized by a thyrse with lateral compound dichasia and lack of interpetiolar ridge, and (ii) Bignonia sanctae-crucis from Bolivia and Brazil, distinguishable by its membranous leaflets, membranous calyx and small fruits. We provide detailed descriptions, illustrations, distribution maps, initial conservation status assessments, and comparisons of the newly described taxa with closely related species.

Stigmaphyllon patricianum-firmenichianum (Malpighiaceae), a new species from Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia
A new species of Stigmaphyllon (Malpighiaceae) is described: Stigmaphyllon patricianum-firmenichianum Butaud. It is restricted to the coral islands of Ouvéa, Lifou and Maré in the Loyalty Islands Province (New Caledonia) and is most similar to S. discolor (Gand.) C.E.Anderson, known from New Caledonia and Solomon Islands. Previously, plants now known as S. patricianum-firmenichianum were included in Stigmaphyllon taomense (Baker f.) C.E.Anderson, endemic to the northern part of Grande-Terre and Belep Islands (New Caledonia). A new circumscription of S. taomense is proposed. The regional key for New Caledonian species of Stigmaphyllon is updated.
["Stigmaphyllon"]

Spiradiclis longanensis, a new species of Rubiaceae from China
A new species of Spiradiclis (Rubiaceae) was found during our field trip to Guangxi, China, and is described here as Spiradiclis longanensis R. J. Wang. This species is readily distinguishable from other prostrate and decumbent species of the genus described previously by dense pubescence all over the plant, 5–20 small flowers per cymose, linear calyx lobes, and tubular corolla. The conservation status of VU was preliminarily assessed according to IUCN categories and criteria.

A revision of Spondias L. (Anacardiaceae) in the Neotropics
As part of an ongoing study of Anacardiaceae subfamily Spondioideae, the ten native and one introduced species of Spondias in the Neotropics are revised. The genus is circumscribed. Three new species, S. admirabilis, S. expeditionaria, and S. globosa, are described and illustrated; a key to the taxa found in the Neotropics and distribution maps are provided. The Paleotropical species and allied genera are reviewed. Diagnostic character sets include leaf architecture, habit, flower morphology, and gross fruit morphology. Notes on the ecology and economic botany of the species are provided.
["Anacardiaceae"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Monograph of Coccinia (Cucurbitaceae)
This monograph deals with all 95 names described in the Cucurbitaceae genus Coccinia and recognizes 25 species. Taxonomic novelties are Coccinia adoensis var. aurantiaca (C.Jeffrey) Holstein, stat. nov., C. sessilifolia var. variifolia (A.Meeuse) Holstein, stat. nov., and C. adoensis var. jeffreyana Holstein, var. nov. For the 25 species 3157 collections were examined, of which 2024 were georeferenced to produce distribution maps. All species are distributed in sub-Saharan Africa with one species, C. grandis, extending from Senegal in West Africa east to Indonesia and being naturalized on Pacific Islands, in Australia, the Caribbean, and South America. Coccinia species are dioecious creepers or climbers with simple or bifid tendrils that occupy a range of habitats from arid scrubland, woodlands to lowland rainforest and mist forest. The corolla of Coccinia species is sympetalous, usually pale yellow to orange, and 1 to 4.5 cm long. Pollination is by bees foraging for pollen or nectar. After pollination, the developing ovary often exhibits longitudinal mottling, which usually disappears during maturation. All species produce berries with a pericarp in reddish colors (orange-red through to scarlet red), hence the generic name. The globose to cylindrical fruits contain numerous grayish-beige flat to lenticular seeds. Chromosome numbers are 2n = 20, 24, and 22 + XX/XY. Many Coccinia species are used for food, either as roasted tubers, greens as spinach, or the fruits as vegetables. Medicinal value is established in C. grandis, of which leaves and sap are used against diabetes.
["Cucurbitaceae"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Advances in Cucurbitaceae Research", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Adiantum shastense, a new species of maidenhair fern from California
A new species of Adiantum is described from California. This species is endemic to northern California and is currently known only from Shasta County. We describe its discovery after first being collected over a century ago and distinguish it from A. jordanii and A. capillus-veneris. It is evergreen and is sometimes, but not always, associated with limestone. The range of Adiantum shastense Huiet & A.R.Sm., sp. nov., is similar to several other Shasta County endemics that occur in the mesic forests of the Eastern Klamath Range, close to Shasta Lake, on limestone and metasedimentary substrates.
["Shasta Lake"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management"]

Rhizophora mucronata var. alokii – a new variety of mangrove species from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India (Rhizophoraceae)
Rhizophora mucronata var. alokii (Rhizophoraceae), a new variety of Rhizophora from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, is described and illustrated. The new variety is remarkable in having four stamens, laterally folded leaves, a short peduncle, thick leathery petals, and a four-sided ovary with a sessile style. A key for the species of Rhizophora of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is also provided.
["Rhizophoraceae"]
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Agricultural and Environmental Management", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Verbascum kurdistanicum (Scrophulariaceae), a new species from Hakkâri, Turkey
Verbascum kurdistanicum Fırat (Scrophulariaceae), is described and illustrated as a new species that is located in Hakkâri, Turkey. In this study, diagnostic morphological characters of this and closely related species (V. oreophilum K.Koch and V. pyramidatum M. Bieb) are discussed. Furthermore, distribution maps for the three taxa are provided.
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Four new species of Pyropia (Bangiales, Rhodophyta) from the west coast of North America: the Pyropia lanceolata species complex updated
Recent molecular studies indicate that the Pyropia lanceolata species complex on the west coast of North America is more speciose than previously thought. Based on extensive rbcL gene sequencing of representative specimens we recognize seven species in the complex, three of which are newly described: Py. montereyensis sp. nov., Py. columbiensis sp. nov., and Py. protolanceolata sp. nov. The new species are all lanceolate, at least when young, and occur in the upper mid to high intertidal zone primarily in winter and early spring. Pyropia montereyensis and Py. columbiensis are sister taxa that are distributed south and north of Cape Mendocino, respectively, and both occur slightly lower on the shore than Py. lanceolata or Py. pseudolanceolata. Pyropia protolanceolata is known thus far only from Morro Rock and the Monterey Peninsula, California; it occurs basally to the other species in the complex in the molecular phylogeny. A fourth newly described species, Pyropia bajacaliforniensis sp. nov., is more closely related to Py. nereocystis than to species in this complex proper. It is a thin species with undulate margins known only from Moss Landing, Monterey Bay, California, and northern Baja California; it also occurs in the high intertidal in spring. Porphyra mumfordii, a high intertidal winter species that has frequently been confused with species in the Py. lanceolata complex, has now been confirmed to occur from Calvert Island, British Columbia, to Pescadero State Park, California.
["Bangiales"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

New vascular plant records for the Canadian Arctic Archipelago
The Canadian Arctic Archipelago is a vast region of approximately 1,420,000 km2, with a flora characterized by low species diversity, low endemicity, and little influence by alien species. New records of vascular plant species are documented here based on recent fieldwork on Victoria and Baffin Islands; additional records based on recent literature sources are mentioned. This paper serves as an update to the 2007 publication Flora of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, and brings the total number of vascular plants for the region to 375 species and infraspecific taxa, an increase of 7.7%. Three families (Amaranthaceae, Juncaginaceae, Pteridaceae) and seven genera (Cherleria L., Cryptogramma R. Br., Platanthera Rich., Sabulina Rchb., Suaeda Forssk. ex J.F. Gmel., Triglochin L., Utricularia L.) are added to the flora, and one genus is deleted (Minuartia L.). Five species are first records for Nunavut (Arenaria longipedunculata Hultén, Cryptogramma stelleri (S.G. Gmel.) Prantl, Puccinellia banksiensis Consaul, Saxifraga eschscholtzii Sternb., Utricularia ochroleuca R.W. Hartm.)
["Floristics"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Soil and Environmental Studies"]

A foundation monograph of Convolvulus L. (Convolvulaceae)
A global revision of Convolvulus L. is presented, Calystegia R.Br. being excluded on pragmatic grounds. One hundred and ninety species are recognised with the greatest diversity in the Irano-Turanian region. All recognised species are described and the majority are illustrated. Distribution details, keys to species identification and taxonomic notes are provided. Four new species, Convolvulus austroafricanus J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, sp. nov., Convolvulus iranicus J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, sp. nov., Convolvulus peninsularis J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, sp. nov. and Convolvulus xanthopotamicus J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, sp. nov., one new subspecies Convolvulus chinensis subsp. triangularis J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, subsp. nov., and two new varieties Convolvulus equitans var. lindheimeri J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, var. nov., Convolvulus glomeratus var. sachalitarum J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, var. nov. are described. Convolvulus incisodentatus J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, nom. nov., is provided as a replacement name for the illegitimate Convolvulus incisus Choisy. Several species treated as synonyms of other species in recent publications are reinstated including C. chinensis Ker-Gawl., C. spinifer M.Popov., C. randii Rendle and C. aschersonii Engl. Ten taxa are given new status and recognised at new ranks: Convolvulus namaquensis (Schltr. ex. A.Meeuse) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov., Convolvulus hermanniae subsp. erosus (Desr.) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov., Convolvulus crenatifolius subsp. montevidensis (Spreng.) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov., Convolvulus fruticulosus subsp. glandulosus (Webb) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov., Convolvulus capituliferus subsp. foliaceus (Verdc.) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov., Convolvulus hystrix subsp. ruspolii (Dammer ex Hallier f.) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov., Convolvulus hystrix subsp. inermis (Chiov.) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov., Convolvulus rottlerianus subsp. stocksii (Boiss.) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, comb. et stat. nov., Convolvulus calvertii subsp. ruprechtii (Boiss.) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov., Convolvulus cephalopodus subsp. bushiricus (Bornm.) J.R.I.Wood & R.W.Scotland, stat. nov. The status of various infraspecific taxa is clarified and numerous taxa are lectotypified. This account represents a new initiative in terms of taxonomic monography, being an attempt to bring together the global approach of the traditional monograph with the more pragmatic and identification-focussed approach of most current floras while at the same time being informed by insights from molecular systematics.
["Convolvulaceae"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Seven new species of Selaginella subg. Stachygynandrum (Selaginellaceae) from Brazil and new synonyms for the genus
We describe seven new species of Selaginella subg. Stachygynandrum (S. alstonii, S. blepharodella, S. crinita, S. mucronata, S. mucugensis, S. saltuicola, and S. sematophylla) from Brazil and discuss their possible affinities and conservation status. Scanning electron micrographs of stem sections, leaves, and spores are provided to illustrate the new taxa. In Selaginella alstonii and S. saltuicola vegetative growth from strobilus tips is reported and discussed. Four of the new species are from the Espinhaço Mountain Range associated with Campos Rupestres (montane savannah/rocky fields) vegetation. Three of these (i.e., Selaginella blepharodella, S. crinita, and S. mucugensis) were collected in the northern part of the range in Chapada Diamantina, state of Bahia, while S. alstonii is from the southern part of the range in the state of Minas Gerais. Selaginella mucronata is found in Atlantic Rainforest vegetation in the state of Espírito Santo, whereas S. saltuicola inhabits Cerrado (tropical savannah) vegetation in the state of Mato Grosso. Selaginella sematophylla is the most widely distributed of the new species and was collected in Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, and Rio de Janeiro states in Campos Rupestres and Atlantic Rainforest vegetation. Selaginella alstonii occurs in rocky caves, S. blepharodella, S. crinita, S. mucugensis, and S. sematophylla seem adapted to seasonally dry places, living on sandy or humid soils, S. mucronata occupies humid, forest understory, and S. saltuicola is adapted to wet places associated with rocks or logs in waterfalls. Of the seven new species, six are considered local endemics (except for S. sematophylla) because of their restricted currently known distributions to one or two localities within a single state in Brazil. Additionally, we propose new synonymy for S. palmiformis (syn. = S. bahiensis subsp. manausensis, ≡ S. manausensis) and S. vestiens (syn. = S. fragillima); the last species is endemic to Brazil, recorded in the states of Goiás and Minas Gerais. Finally, based on literature discussed and this study, we conclude that the number of well-documented Brazilian Selaginella species is 61, of which 58 are native and three introduced and naturalized. These statistics are likely to change with further work on Selaginella from Brazil.
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

A new species of Brevianthus (Brevianthaceae, Marchantiophyta) from New Caledonia with unusual underleaf production
Brevianthus is a distinctive genus of leafy liverwort in its succubously inserted, entire leaves, lack of underleaves, restriction of sexual organs to lateral-intercalary branches, scattered rhizoids and dense leaf-surface ornamentation. The sole species, Brevianthus flavus, is divided into two subspecies, one in Tasmania the other in New Zealand. A second species, Brevianthus hypocanthidium, is described as new and is the first record of the genus for New Caledonia. Among its distinguishing characters are its shallowly bilobed leaves, and triangular underleaves present on small to medium-sized shoot sectors, the lack of a hyaline leaf margin, and the crenulate leaf margin formed by heavily thickened external cell walls. The most unusual features of the new species are the presence of underleaves between lateral leaf insertion lines that reach the ventral stem mid-line, and the absence of underleaves from larger shoots. To explain these features we propose a competitive model of shoot formation wherein the ventral merophyte progressively loses vigor as its relative stature decreases, and its derivative cells become discontinuous and isolated along the ventral stem surface, with intervening areas occupied by derivatives of the more vigorous lateral merophytes.
["Bryophyte"]

Goniothalamus flagellistylus Tagane & V. S. Dang (Annonaceae), a new species from Mt. Hon Ba, Vietnam
A new species, Goniothalamus flagellistylus Tagane & V. S. Dang, sp. nov. from Hon Ba Nature Reserve in Khanh Hoa Province, South Vietnam is described and illustrated. This species is most similar to Goniothalamus tortilipetalus M.R.Hend., but distinct in having 308–336 stamens (vs. ca. 170–260) and ca.120 carpels (vs. ca. 50–100) per flower, and Stigma and pseudostyles ca.8.5 mm (vs. 4–4.5 mm) long.

Studies of Malagasy Eugenia – IV: Seventeen new endemic species, a new combination, and three lectotypifications; with comments on distribution, ecological and evolutionary patterns
Seventeen new endemic species of the genus Eugenia L. (Myrtaceae) are proposed from Madagascar, including: E.andapae N. Snow, E.barriei N. Snow, E.bemangidiensis N. Snow, E.calciscopulorum N. Snow, E.delicatissima N. Snow, Callm. & Phillipson, E.echinulata N. Snow, E.gandhii N. Snow, E.hazonjia N. Snow, E.iantarensis N. Snow, E.malcomberi N. Snow, E.manomboensis N. Snow, E.obovatifolia N. Snow, E.ranomafana N. Snow & D. Turk, E.ravelonarivoi N. Snow & Callm., E.razakamalalae N. Snow & Callm., E.tiampoka N. Snow & Callm., and E.wilsoniana N. Snow, and one new combination, Eugeniarichardii (Blume) N. Snow, Callm. & Phillipson is provided. Detailed descriptions, information on distribution and ecology, distribution maps, vernacular names (where known), digital images of types, comparisons to morphologically similar species. Preliminary assessment of IUCN risk of extinction and conservation recommendations are provided, including Vulnerable (4 species), Endangered (2 species), and Critically Endangered (4 species). Lectotpyes are designated for Eugeniahovarum H. Perrier, Eugenianompa H. Perrier, and E.scottii H. Perrier respectively.

New blueberry and mortiño relatives (Ericaceae) from northwestern Colombia
The inventory of the vascular plants of one of the richest and least studied floras, the Andean and Chocó regions of northwestern Colombia, targets Las Orquídeas National Park. As a result of field trips to areas never before collected, several epiphytic and small terrestrial shrubs in the family Ericaceae have been discovered in the Park’s humid forests. Five new, morphologically remarkable species of Ericaceae (tribe Vaccinieae), are here described and illustrated. In a separate phylogenetic analysis, Psammisia pinnata Pedraza, P. pseudoverticillata Pedraza, Satyria orquidiensis Pedraza, and S. pterocalyx Pedraza, were placed by molecular sequence data within clades of the non-monophyletic genera Psammisia and Satyria; phylogenetic evidence for the placement of P. sophiae Pedraza is still lacking. Their affinities are here discussed, along with their preliminary conservation status.
["Psammisia"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A refined concept of the Critoniopsis bogotana species group in Colombia with two new species (Vernonieae, Asteraceae)
Critoniopsis bogotana is more precisely delimited, and two related Colombian species are described as new. The form of trichomes on the abaxial surfaces of the leaves is found to be of major importance. A short key to the C. bogotana group is provided.
["Critoniopsis"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Clarifying the Dioscorea buchananii Benth. species complex: a new potentially extinct subspecies for South Africa
The Dioscorea buchananii complex is shown to comprise three species, one of which is divided into two subspecies, based on morphological data. Two species, D. rupicola Kunth and D. multiloba Kunth, are endemic or subendemic to South Africa and of widespread occurrence in KwaZulu Natal. They differ markedly from each other in inflorescence and floral morphology and appear to be ecologically differentiated. The third species, D. buchananii Benth., is primarily found in southeastern tropical Africa, but a small number of specimens collected in South Africa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries are placed in an endemic subspecies, D. buchananii subsp. undatiloba (Baker) Wilkin. The latter taxon is a high priority in terms of rediscovery and conservation. Keys, descriptions, supporting information and illustrations are provided and made available online through eMonocot biodiversity informatics tools. Three nomenclatural acts are undertaken: two names are placed in synonymy and a new combination made.

Paepalanthus serpens, a new microendemic species of Eriocaulaceae from the Espinhaço Range, Minas Gerais, Brazil
We describe and illustrate Paepalanthus serpens, a microendemic species of Eriocaulaceae from the Espinhaço Range. The species is known from a single population growing in rocky areas of the Serra do Cipó, Minas Gerais. It is placed in Paepalanthus ser. Paepalanthus, and is easily distinguished from its congeneric species by its elongated, lignescent stem, thickened by the marcescent sheaths of the linear leaves, which are arranged in a rosette at the stem apex, scapes equalling the leaf height, and capitulae with straw-coloured involucral bracts. Comparisons with the morphologically similar species are provided, as well as comments on distribution, ecology, phenology and conservation status.
["Campo Rupestre"]

Two new species of Indigofera L. (Leguminosae) from the Sneeuberg Centre of Floristic Endemism, Great Escarpment (Eastern and Western Cape, South Africa)
Two new species of Indigofera L. (Leguminosae) are described from the Sneeuberg Centre of Floristic Endemism on the southern Great Escarpment, Eastern and Western Cape Provinces, South Africa. Both species are localised high-altitude endemics. Indigofera magnifica Schrire & V.R. Clark is confined to the summit plateau of the Toorberg–Koudeveldberg–Meelberg west of Graaff-Reinet, and complements other western Sneeuberg endemics such as Erica passerinoides (Bolus) E.G.H. Oliv. and Faurea recondita Rourke & V.R. Clark. Indigofera asantasanensis Schrire & V.R. Clark is confined to a small area east of Graaff-Reinet, and complements several other eastern Sneeuberg endemics such as Euryops exsudans B. Nord & V.R. Clark and E. proteoides B. Nord. & V.R. Clark. Based on morphology, both new species belong to the Cape Clade of Indigofera, supporting a biogeographical link between the Cape Floristic Region and the Sneeuberg, as well as with the rest of the eastern Great Escarpment.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Two new species of endemic Ecuadorean Amaryllidaceae (Asparagales, Amaryllidaceae, Amarylloideae, Eucharideae)
New species of the genera Stenomesson and Eucharis (Amaryllidaceae) are described from Ecuador. Stenomesson ecuadorense is the second species of the genus reported from that country, and the only endemic one. It is related to S. miniatum and S. campanulatum, both from Peru, with which it shares orange flower color and the fusion of the staminal corona to the perianth tube. It differs from S. miniatum by the non-urceolate perianth, from S. campanulatum by its shorter stamens and longer perianth, and from both by its lower montane, cloud forest habitat. Eucharis ruthiana, found in the vicinity of Zamora, is related to E. moorei from which it differs by the narrower leaves and tepals; short, deeply cleft staminal corona; the long teeth on either side of the free filaments; the narrowly subulate, incurved free filaments; and the shorter style. The green mature fruit and campanulate floral morphology place it in Eucharis subg. Heterocharis.
["Bulb"]

Dianthus aticii, a new species from Turkey (Caryophyllaceae)
During the taxonomic revision of the Turkish Dianthus species, specimens collected from Bilecik, Seben (Bolu), and Nallıhan (Ankara) were discovered that represent a new species. Its description, images, chorology, ecology, and threat category are provided. It was compared with a closely related species, D. zonatus, and differences are based on its general morphology and seed micromorphology.
["Dianthus"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Two new non-spiny Solanum species from the Bolivian Andes (Morelloid Clade)
Two new Bolivian species are described from the Morelloid clade of Solanum (section Solanum in the traditional sense). Solanum alliariifolium M.Nee & Särkinen, sp. nov. is found in montane forests between 1,900 and 3,200 m and is morphologically most similar to S. leptocaulon Van Heurck & Müll.Arg., also from montane forests in southern Peru and Bolivia. Solanum rhizomatum Särkinen & M.Nee, sp. nov. is found in seasonally dry forests and matorral vegetation in lower elevations between 1,300 and 2,900 m and is most similar to S. pygmaeum Cav., a species native to sub-tropical Argentina but introduced in subtropical and temperate areas worldwide.

Plant endemism in the Sierras of Córdoba and San Luis (Argentina): understanding links between phylogeny and regional biogeographical patterns1
We compiled a checklist with all known endemic plants occurring in the Sierras of Córdoba and San Luis, an isolated mountainous range located in central Argentina. In order to obtain a better understanding of the evolutionary history, relationships and age of the regional flora, we gathered basic information on the biogeographical and floristic affinities of the endemics, and documented the inclusion of each taxon in molecular phylogenies. We listed 89 taxa (including 69 species and 20 infraspecific taxa) belonging to 53 genera and 29 families. The endemics are not distributed evenly, being more abundant in the lower than in the middle and upper vegetation belts. Thirty-two genera (60.3%) have been included in phylogenetic analyses, but only ten (18.8%) included local endemic taxa. A total of 28 endemic taxa of the Sierras CSL have a clear relationship with a widespread species of the same genus, or with one found close to the area. Available phylogenies for some taxa show divergence times between 7.0 – 1.8 Ma; all endemic taxa are most probably neoendemics sensu Stebbins and Major. Our analysis was specifically aimed at a particular geographic area, but the approach of analyzing phylogenetic patterns together with floristic or biogeographical relationships of the endemic taxa of an area, delimited by clear geomorphological features, could reveal evolutionary trends shaping the area.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Heliotropium (Boraginaceae) in the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia) with description of a new species
During the preparation of the Vascular Flora of the Marquesas Islands a new endemic species of Heliotropium L. (Boraginaceae) has come to light and is described herein: Heliotropium perlmanii Lorence & W. L. Wagner. It is known only from the island of Eiao and appears most closely related to H. marchionicum Decne., also endemic to the Marquesas and known from Nuku Hiva. An amended description of H. marchionicum and key to separate the Marquesan species are given and their differences discussed.
["Heliotropium"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties"]

New species, additions and a key to the Brazilian species of the Geminata clade of Solanum L. (Solanaceae) in Brazil
Two additions and four new species are described from Brazil for the large Geminata clade (Solanum: Solanaceae) bringing the total diversity in the group to 149 species, with 44 of these occurring in Brazil. New species are described from Brazil: S. amorimii S.Knapp & Giacomin, sp. nov. from Bahia and adjacent Minas Gerais states, S. filirhachis Giacomin & Stehmann, sp. nov. from Espirito Santo, S. psilophyllum Stehmann & Giacomin, sp. nov. from Minas Gerais and S. verticillatum S.Knapp & Stehmann, sp. nov. from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais. Modern character-rich descriptions and lectotypifications are provided for S. apiahyense Witasek and Solanum lacteum Vell. All are illustrated, mapped and assessed for conservation status. We also provide a brief analysis of the diversity and endemism of the Geminata clade in Brazil and a key to all 44 Brazilian species.
["Atlantic forests"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Banana Cultivation and Research"]

Changes in the circumscription of Deprea (Physalideae, Solanaceae): thirty two new combinations
According to the latest phylogenetic and cytogenetic results, Larnax and Deprea should be merged in order to form a natural group. Consequently, we propose 32 combinations of Larnax species names under Deprea: D. abra-patriciae (S.Leiva & Barboza) S.Leiva & Deanna, comb. nov., D. altomayoensis (S.Leiva & Quip.) Barboza & Deanna, comb. nov., D. andersonii (N.W.Sawyer) Deanna & S.Leiva, comb. nov., D. bongaraensis (S.Leiva) Deanna & Barboza, comb. nov., D. chotanae (S.Leiva, Pereyra & Barboza) S.Leiva, comb. nov., D. darcyana (N.W.Sawyer) Barboza & S.Leiva, comb. nov., D. dilloniana (S.Leiva, Quip. & N.W.Sawyer) Barboza, comb. nov., D. grandiflora (N.W.Sawyer & S.Leiva) Deanna & Barboza, comb. nov., D. harlingiana (Hunz. & Barboza) S.Leiva & Deanna, comb nov., D. hawkesii (Hunz.) Deanna, comb. nov., D. kann-rasmussenii (S.Leiva & Quip.) S.Leiva & Barboza, comb. nov., D. longipedunculata (S.Leiva, E.Rodr. & J.Campos) Barboza, comb. nov., D. lutea (S.Leiva) Deanna, comb. nov., D. macasiana (Deanna, S.Leiva & Barboza) Barboza, comb. nov., D. maculatifolia (E.Rodr. & S.Leiva) S. Leiva, comb. nov., D. nieva (S.Leiva & N.W.Sawyer) Barboza & Deanna, comb. nov., D. parviflora (N.W.Sawyer & S.Leiva) S.Leiva, comb. nov., D. pedrazae (S.Leiva & Barboza) Deanna & S.Leiva, comb. nov., D. peruviana (Zahlbr.) S.Leiva & Barboza, comb. nov., D. pilosa (S.Leiva, E.Rodr. & J.Campos) Deanna, comb. nov., D. pomacochaensis (S.Leiva) Barboza, comb. nov., D. psilophyta (N.W.Sawyer) S.Leiva & Deanna, comb. nov., D. pumila (S.Leiva, Barboza & Deanna) S.Leiva, comb. nov., D. purpurea (S.Leiva) Barboza & S.Leiva, comb. nov., D. purpureocarpa (S.Leiva, Deanna & Barboza) Deanna, comb. nov., D. sachapapa (Hunz.) S.Leiva & Deanna, comb. nov., D. sagasteguii (S.Leiva, Quip. & N. W.Sawyer) Barboza, comb. nov., D. sawyeriana (S.Leiva, E.Rodr. & J.Campos) S.Leiva, comb. nov., D. schjellerupiae (S.Leiva & Quip.) Barboza & Deanna, comb. nov., D. steyermarkii (Hunz.) S.Leiva & Barboza, comb. nov., D. toledoana (Barboza & S.Leiva) Barboza, comb. nov., and D. vasquezii (S.Leiva, E.Rodr. & J.Campos) Deanna, comb. nov.
["Deprea"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

Syzygium pyneei (Myrtaceae), a new critically endangered endemic species from Mauritius
A new species of Syzygium Gaertn. (Myrtaceae), S. pyneei Byng, V. Florens & Baider, is described from Mondrain Reserve on the island of Mauritius. This species is endemic to the island and differs from any other species by its combination of cauliflory, relatively large flowers, light green to cream hypanthium, light pink stamens, short thick petioles, coriaceous leaves and round, cuneate or sub-cordate to cordate leaf bases. Syzygium pyneei Byng, V. Florens & Baider is known from only two individuals from the type locality and merits the conservation status of Critically Endangered (CR C2a(i,ii); D).
["Syzygium"]

Taxonomic updates in Dolichandra Cham. (Bignonieae, Bignoniaceae)
Dolichandra is a genus of lianas found in dry and wet Neotropical forests. The genus currently includes eight species and is well characterized by molecular and morphological synapomorphies. Here, Macfadyena hispida (DC.) Seemann is removed from synonomy with Dolichandra uncata (Andrews) L.G. Lohmann based on the presence of the hispid indument, vinaceus ovary, long fruits, and winged seeds. The combination Dolichandra hispida (DC.) L.H. Fonseca & L.G. Lohmann, comb. nov. is proposed, increasing the number of accepted species of Dolichandra to nine. A taxonomic key for all species of Dolichandra is presented.
["Taxonomic key"]

Thismia hongkongensis (Thismiaceae): a new mycoheterotrophic species from Hong Kong, China, with observations on floral visitors and seed dispersal
A new species, Thismia hongkongensis S.S.Mar & R.M.K.Saunders, is described from Hong Kong. It is most closely related to Thismia brunonis Griff. from Myanmar, but differs in the number of flowers per inflorescence, the colour of the perianth tube, the length of the filaments, and the shape of the stigma lobes. We also provide inferences on the pollination ecology and seed dispersal of the new species, based on field observations and interpretations of morphology. The flowers are visited by fungus gnats (Myctophilidae or Sciaridae) and scuttle flies (Phoridae), which are likely to enter the perianth tube via the annulus below the filiform tepal appendages, and exit via small apertures between the filaments of the pendent stamens. The flowers are inferred to be protandrous, and flies visiting late-anthetic (pistillate-phase) flowers are possibly trapped within the flower, increasing chances of pollen deposition on the receptive stigma. The seeds are likely to be dispersed by rain splash.
["Burmanniaceae"]

Sirdavidia, an extraordinary new genus of Annonaceae from Gabon
A distinctive new monotypic genus from Gabon is described in the tropical plant family Annonaceae: Sirdavidia, in honor to Sir David Attenborough. Molecular phylogenetic analyses confirm that Sirdavidia, which is very distinct from a morphological standpoint, is not nested in any existing genus of Annonaceae and belongs to tribe Piptostigmateae (subfamily Malmeoideae), which now contains a total of six genera. The genus is characterized by long acuminate leaves, fully reflexed red petals, 16–19 bright yellow, loosely arranged stamens forming a cone, and a single carpel topped by a conspicuous stigma. With just three known collections, a preliminary IUCN conservation status assessment is provided as “endangered” as well as a distribution map. The discovery of Sirdavidia is remarkable at several levels. First, it was collected near the road in one of the botanically best-known regions of Gabon: Monts de Cristal National Park. Second, its sister group is the genus Mwasumbia, also monotypic, endemic to a small area in a forest in Tanzania, some 3000 km away. Finally, the floral morphology is highly suggestive of a buzz pollination syndrome. If confirmed, this would be the first documentation of such a pollination syndrome in Magnoliidae and early-diverging angiosperms in general.
["Piptostigmateae"]

Psoralea diturnerae and P. vanberkelae (Psoraleeae, Fabaceae): two new species restricted to the Core Cape Region of South Africa
Two new species of Psoralea L. are described: Psoralea diturnerae A. Bello, C.H. Stirt. & Muasya, sp. nov. and P. vanberkelae C.H. Stirt., A. Bello & Muasya, sp. nov. Psoralea diturnerae is endemic to the Outeniqua mountains (Camferskloof) and is characterised by a mass of numerous basal shoots out of which emerge 2–3 woody stems up to 2 m tall, 3-foliolate needle-like leaflets at the base of the seasonally growing shoot reducing to one towards the apex and bearing numerous 1–3-flowered axillary inflorescences along its length; each mauve to purple and white flower subtended by a trifid cupulum. Psoralea vanberkelae is characterised by its spreading mounding habit, short tightly packed fleshy leaves, with large impressed papillae, densely glandular short broadly triangular stipules, pale to intense mauve to deep blue flowers, standard with a dark purple central blotch above a M-shaped white patch situated above claw, and khaki seeds with purple flecks.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Chapelieria magna, a new species of Rubiaceae from eastern Madagascar
A new species of Chapelieria was discovered during a recent field trip to the Masoala National Park in eastern Madagascar, and is described here as Chapelieria magna Kainul., sp. nov. This species is readily distinguishable from previously described species of the genus by its quadrangular shoots, triangular-calyptrate stipules, sessile leaves, pubescent styles, and ridged fruits. It also differs in the larger number of ovules and the much larger size of leaves and fruits.
["Chapelieria"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Four new non-spiny Solanum (Solanaceae) species from South America
Four new species of “non-spiny” Solanum from South America are described. Solanum longifilamentum Särkinen & P.Gonzáles, sp. nov. (Morelloid clade) is widespread from Ecuador to Bolivia and is most similar to S. macrotonum Dunal from Central and northern South America. Solanum antisuyo Särkinen & S.Knapp, sp. nov. (Morelloid clade) is found on the eastern Andean slopes in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia and is most similar to the widespread lower elevation species S. polytrichostylum Bitter. Solanum arenicola Särkinen & P.Gonzáles, sp. nov. (Morelloid clade) is found in low elevation habitats on the eastern Andean slopes and in Amazonia of Peru and Bolivia and is most similar to the higher elevation species S. aloysiifolium Dunal of Bolivia and Argentina. Solanum mariae Särkinen & S.Knapp, sp. nov. (Potato clade) is endemic to Cajamarca Department in Peru, and is most similar to the widespread S. caripense Dunal. Complete descriptions, distributions and preliminary conservation assessments of all new species are given.
["Tropical Andes"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Three new species of Begonia (Begoniaceae) from Bahia, Brazil
The taxonomic treatment of Begoniaceae for the state of Bahia, Brazil, led to the recognition of three new species of Begonia with narrow distributions, which are described and illustrated here: B. delicata Gregório & J.A.S. Costa, sp. nov. is a herb restricted to the region of the Recôncavo; B. elianeae Gregório & J.A.S. Costa, sp. nov. is a shrub endemic to the Atlantic forest of the southern part of the state; and B. paganuccii Gregório & J.A.S. Costa, sp. nov. is a subshrub known only from the type material, collected in the Piedmont of Paraguaçu. Notes on morphology, comparisons with morphologically similar species, etymology, geographic distribution, habitat and phenological data for each species are also presented. Furthermore, keys are provided as an aid to separating the new species from congeneric species that occur in their surroundings. Due to the sparse knowledge of the new species, there is as yet insufficient data to accurately assess their conservation status.

A revision of Passiflora L. subgenus Decaloba (DC.) Rchb. supersection Cieca (Medik.) J. M. MacDougal & Feuillet (Passifloraceae)
Passiflora subgenus Decaloba supersection Cieca is a monophyletic group of herbaceous to woody climbers found in subtropical and tropical regions of the world. The 19 species recognized here are primarily distributed in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. Two species, P. suberosa and P. pallida, are also naturalized in various regions of the Old World. The species of the supersection are recognized by their small, apetalous, usually greenish flowers with the filaments of the corona mostly in two series. The plants commonly lack c-glycosylflavones but possess flavonol 3-O-glycosides. The supersection contains two problematic species complexes, P. suberosa and P. coriacea. Phylogenetic relationships within supersection Cieca are investigated by means of phenetic and cladistic analyses of morphological and molecular (ITS 1 & 2) characters. The morphological and molecular data sets were analyzed separately because of incongruity due to taxon sampling and the complicated evolutionary history of entities within the P. suberosa complex. All analyses confirm the monophyly of the supersection. They also show that the P. suberosa complex is a non-monophyletic group of cryptic species, and inter-taxic hybridization and polyploidy have contributed to the confusing and complex pattern of variation evident within the group. Four taxa that were formerly included in this complex are recognized: P. pallida, P. suberosa subsp. suberosa, P. suberosa subsp. litoralis, and P. tridactylites. On the basis of molecular and morphological data, three species from the P. coriacea complex are recognized: P. coriacea, P. sexocellata, and P. megacoriacea. A key, detailed descriptions, distribution maps, and illustrations are included in the revision. Pollination, dispersal, and herbivory of the group are reviewed. The distribution and ecology of the species within the supersection are also discussed.
["Passiflora"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Seed and Plant Biochemistry"]

Two new species of Tynanthus Miers (Bignonieae, Bignoniaceae) from Brazil
Tynanthus is a genus of lianas that is broadly distributed through the Neotropics. Two new species of Tynanthus from Brazil are here described and illustrated: T. densiflorus, from Amazonas, and T. espiritosantensis, from Espírito Santo. T. densiflorus is recognized by the conspicuous interpetiolar glandular fields, a feature rarely found in Tynanthus, and the dense thyrses. Tynanthus espiritosantensis, on the other hand, is recognized by the bromeliad-like prophylls of the axillary buds and the lax thyrses. Information on the distribution, conservation status and morphologically similar species are provided.

Four new species of Andean Pilea (Urticaceae), with additional notes on the genus in Venezuela
Four new species of Pilea (Urticaceae) from the Andes of Venezuela are described and illustrated: Pilea matthewii sp. nov., P. miguelii sp. nov., P. nicholasii sp. nov., and P. nidiae sp. nov. The affinities of these species and their positions within the informal classifications of Pilea proposed by Weddell and Killip are discussed. Notes on other species of Pilea found in Venezuela also are presented.
["Urticaceae"]

Dorstenia luamensis (Moraceae), a new species from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
A new species of Dorstenia L. (Moraceae), D. luamensis M.E.Leal, is described from the Luama Wildlife Reserve, west of Lake Tanganyika and north of the town of Kalemie in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This species is endemic to the region and differs from any of the other species by its fernlike lithophytic habit and lack of latex. A description and illustration of this species is presented here. Dorstenia luamensis M.E.Leal inhabits moist and shady vertical rock faces close to small waterfalls in the forest; the species is distributed in small populations within the type locality, and merits the conservation status of endangered (EN).
["Dorstenia"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Bidens meyeri (Asteraceae, Coreopsideae): a new critically endangered species from Rapa, Austral Islands
Bidens meyeri (Asteraceae/Compositae) is described and illustrated from Rapa, Austral Islands, (French Polynesia). This new species is presumed to be most closely related to Bidens saint-johniana from nearby Marotiri Island. Bidens meyeri may be distinguished from B. saint-johniana based on the length of the peduncle (3 cm versus 10 cm), apex of the inner involucral bracts (glabrous vs. puberulent), smaller leaves (2.0–2.3 cm vs. 5–6 cm), and the general smaller size of the new species. Known from less than 50 individuals and restricted to one remote location, Bidens meyeri falls into the IUCN Critically Endangered (CR) category. The new species is named in honor of Dr. Jean-Yves Meyer, Délégation à la Recherche, Polynésie Française,
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Three new species of Licania (Chrysobalanaceae) from Peru
Recent collections received for identification contain three conspicuous new species for the mid altitude forests of Amazonian Peru. Licania palcazuensis, L. apiknae and L. monteagudensis are described as new and their relationship to other species is discussed. A key is provided for all the species of Licania subgenus Licania section Licania known to occur in Peru.
["Chrysobalanaceae"]
["Botanical Research and Applications", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

A revision of the New Zealand Kunzea ericoides (Myrtaceae) complex
A revision of the New Zealand Kunzea ericoides complex is presented. This paper is the final of a series that has explored the systematics of the New Zealand Kunzea complex using cytological and molecular variation, as well as experimental hybridisations between postulated segregates. As a result of those studies ten species, all endemic to New Zealand, are recognised; seven of these are new. One species, K. triregensis sp. nov., is endemic to the Three Kings Islands and another species K. sinclairii, endemic to Aotea (Great Barrier Island). The North Island of New Zealand has seven species, K. amathicola sp. nov., K. salterae sp. nov., K. serotina sp. nov., K. robusta sp. nov., K. tenuicaulis sp. nov., K. toelkenii sp. nov., and K. linearis comb. nov. Of these, K. linearis, K. salterae, K. tenuicaulis and K. toelkenii are endemic to the North Island, and K. amathicola, K. robusta and K. serotina extend to the South Island which also supports one endemic, K. ericoides. Typifications are published for Leptospermum ericoides A.Rich., L. ericoides var. linearis Kirk, L. ericoides var. microflorum G.Simps., L. ericoides var. pubescens Kirk, and L. sinclairii Kirk, names here all referred to Kunzea. The ecology, conservation, extent of natural hybridisation and some aspects of the ethnobotany (vernacular names) of these Kunzea are also discussed.
["New Zealand Archipelago"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

A new species of Hibiscadelphus Rock (Malvaceae, Hibisceae) from Maui, Hawaiian Islands
Hibiscadelphus stellatus H. Oppenheimer, Bustamente, & Perlman, sp. nov., a new, narrowly endemic species from West Maui, Hawaiian Islands is described, illustrated and its affinities and conservation status are discussed. It is currently known from three populations totaling 99 plants in Kaua`ula valley on leeward western Maui. It differs from H. wilderianus, its nearest congener, in its denser white or tan stellate pubescence on most parts; larger externally purple colored corollas that are 5–6.5 cm long; linear-subulate to lanceolate, acute to acuminate involucral bracts; globose-cuboid to ovoid capsules; and endocarp with scattered hairs.
["Malvaceae"]
["Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

A new species of spiny Solanum (Solanaceae) from Peru
A new species of Solanum is described from Peru. Solanum junctum S. Stern & M. Nee, sp nov. is a member of the Torva clade of the spiny solanums (Leptostemonum clade). The narrow corolla lobes and recurved prickles of S. junctum are similar to species in the Micracantha clade, but S. junctum differs in its branched inflorescences and upright green fruits. These characteristics are shared with other members the Torva clade; within this section S. junctum is morphologically most similar to S. subinerme and S. poinsettiifolium. Solanum subinerme has larger flowers, longer cauline prickles, and often has long straight prickles on the adaxial leaf surface that are lacking in S. junctum. Solanum poinsettiifolium has fewer spines, dense white tomentum on the abaxial leaf surfaces, stout unbranched inflorescences, and more extensive interpetalar corolla tissue than S. junctum.
["Solanum"]

Hieracium sinoaestivum (Asteraceae), a new species from North China
Hieracium sinoaestivum Sennikov sp. nov. is described as new to science and illustrated. This presumably apomictic species is solely known from two old collections made in a single locality in the Shanxi Province of China. It belongs to the hybridogenous group H. sect. Aestiva (H. sect. Prenanthoidea × H. sect. Umbellata) and is most similar to H. veresczaginii from southern Siberia. The new species occurs at low altitudes in the forest belt of Lülian Mts. and belongs to taiga forest elements.
["Apomictic species"]

Three new caespitose species of Senecio (Asteraceae, Senecioneae) from South Peru
Three new species of the genus Senecio (Asteraceae, Senecioneae) belonging to S. ser. Suffruticosi subser. Caespitosi were discovered in the tributaries of the upper Tambo River, Moquegua Department, South Peru. Descriptions, diagnoses and discussions about their distribution, a table with the morphological similarities with other species of Senecio, a distribution map, conservation status assessments, and a key to the caespitose Peruvian species of S. subser. Caespitosi are provided. The new species are Senecio moqueguensis Montesinos, sp. nov. (Critically Endangered) which most closely resembles Senecio pucapampaensis Beltrán, Senecio sykorae Montesinos, sp. nov. (Critically Endangered) which most closely resembles Senecio gamolepis Cabrera, and Senecio tassaensis Montesinos, sp. nov. (Critically Endangered) which most closely resembles Senecio moqueguensis Montesinos.
["Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

A new species of Cissampelos (Menispermaceae) from Bolivia and Paraguay
The new species Cissampelos arenicola M. Nee & R. Ortiz, from the Bolivian and Paraguayan Chaco is described, its affinities are discussed, and its preliminary conservation status is evaluated. The species is at present known from 13 collections from sand dunes or dry forests. Cissampelos arenicola is distinguished from all other American species in the genus by its ovate- to subreniform-trilobed leaves, 8-locular synandria, and relatively large, and scarcely ornamented endocarps. The most common perianth condition in the pistillate flowers of Cissampelos is one sepal and one antesepalous petal, and while these may vary in number, they are always found adaxial to the carpel, and although the southern African taxon called Cissampelos capensis, whose generic position is uncertain, superficially resembles Cissampelos arenicola, its sepals and petals are consistently lateral to the carpel and not adaxial.
["Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Three new species of Solanum (Brevantherum Clade) endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Three new Brazilian species of the Brevantherum clade of Solanum (Solanaceae) are described, all closely related to the poorly known Solanum inornatum Witasek. Solanum bradei Giacomin & Stehmann, sp.nov., and Solanum kriegeri Giacomin & Stehmann, sp. nov., differ from S. inornatum invery small deltate calyx lobes that are not accrescent in fruit. Solanum bradei is a shrub up to 1.8 m with generally pedunculate inflorescences and tiny translucent fruits, whereas Solanum kriegeri is a dwarf glabrescent plant growing on sandy soils in cloud forests, with larger fruits and sessile to subsessile inflorescence. Solanum friburgense Giacomin & Stehmann, sp. nov., has linear calyx lobes like S. inornatum, and is characterized by its 2-foliate sympodia and leaf pubescence, with trichomes concentrated on leaf veins. The species here described and illustrated are restricted to the mountain ranges of Mantiqueira and Serra do Mar in the Atlantic forests of southeastern Brazil and are all of considerable conservation concern.

Dorstenia triseriata (Moraceae) a new and endangered species from Brazil
A new species of Moraceae is described, illustrated and compared to its close morphological relatives. Dorstenia triseriata presents similarities with Dorstenia turnerifolia but distinguished by size of peduncle, diameter of receptacle, number of bract rows, color of marginal bracts, and by an indistinct fringe on inflorescence. A conservation assessment based on IUCN criteria determines the new species to be vulnerable (VU).
["Atlantic rainforest"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Revisions and key to the Vernonieae (Compositae) of Thailand
Seventeen genera and 48 species, in five subtribes, are recognized in Thailand. These include 15 endemic taxa, half of which are in the largest genus, Acilepis, with others in the genera Camchaya, Koyamasia, and Okia. A new monotypic genus, Pulicarioidea, is established with P. annamica, the new name for the species formerly known as Vernonia pulicarioides. New combinations are also made for Acilepis kerrii, Cyanthillium montanum, Koyamasia curtisii and Okia pseudobirmanica. Forty-six characters including habit, leaf, flower, achene and pollen morphology were analyzed using UPGMA. Five clusters of taxa were identified. Keys to genera, species and varieties, descriptions, vernacular names, ecological data and illustrations are provided.
["Acilepis"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

Synopsis of Martinella Baill. (Bignonieae, Bignoniaceae), with the description of a new species from the Atlantic Forest of Brazil
Martinella has traditionally included two species, Martinella iquitoensis and Martinella obovata, that are characterized by the presence of interpetiolar ridges surrounding the stems and minute prophylls of the axillary buds. A third species, Martinella insignis, is here described as new, illustrated and compared to other species in the genus. Martinella insignis is the first record of the genus in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, and differs from other species of Martinella by the yellow corolla (vs. red to dark purple) and 5-lobed calices (vs. 2–4-lobed).
["Martinella"]

Gymnanthemum koekemoerae (Compositae, Vernonieae), a new species from South Africa
A new species of Gymnanthemum (Compositae, Vernonieae) from South Africa is described. It can be distinguished from other species in the genus by the five-flowered capitula and widely obtuse leaf blades.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

The systematics of the worldwide endoparasite family Apodanthaceae (Cucurbitales), with a key, a map, and color photos of most species
Using morphological, nuclear, and mitochondrial data, we here revise the taxonomy of Apodanthaceae and allocate the 36 names published in the family to ten biological species in two genera, Apodanthes and Pilostyles. All species are endo-parasites that live permanently inside trees or shrubs of the families Salicaceae or Fabaceae and that only emerge to flower. Because of this life history, Apodanthaceae are among the least known families of flowering plants. Nevertheless, the World’s herbaria as of 2013 hold at least 785 collections that, in combination with DNA phylogenies, permit well-founded species circumscriptions and geographic range maps. We also provide a key to all species, discuss the newly accepted or synonymized names, and make available color photos of six of the ten species.
["Apodanthaceae"]
["Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant and animal studies"]

Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African orchids 2. A second species of the rare genus Distylodon (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae) collected in Cameroon
While conducting field inventories in South Cameroon, we collected two specimens of a new species that we considered to belong to the genus Angraecopsis. Afterwards, a careful examination of specimens housed at main herbaria, along with the nomenclatural types, allows us to place it in Distylodon, a monotypic genus previously known from East Africa. Distylodon sonkeanum Droissart, Stévart & P.J.Cribb, sp. nov. was collected in the lowland coastal forest of Atlantic Central Africa. It is known from a single locality in the surroundings of the Campo-Ma’an National Park. The species differs from D. comptum, by its several-flowered inflorescences, longer leaves and spur, and shorter pedicel and ovary. The species appears to be rare and is assessed as Critically Endangered [CR B2ab(iii)] according to IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. New field investigations are required to attempt to find it in the low-elevation parts of the Campo-Ma’an National Park in Cameroon.
["Angraecoid"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Crataegus ×ninae-celottiae and C. ×cogswellii (Rosaceae, Maleae), two spontaneously formed intersectional nothospecies
Crataegus monogyna Jacq. is naturalized in North America, where it has hybridized with native diploid hawthorns at least twice. We provide names for the two nothospecies (as well as for the corresponding nothosections and nothoseries), referring to existing documentation in the literature for nothosp. nov. Crataegus ×ninae-celottiae K.I. Chr. & T.A. Dickinson (C. monogyna × C. punctata Jacq.). New data are provided to further document nothosp. nov. Crataegus ×cogswellii K.I. Chr. & T.A. Dickinson (C. monogyna × C. suksdorfii (Sarg.) Kruschke). In both cases, the striking differences in leaf shape between most New World hawthorns and Old World section Crataegus, and the intermediacy of the hybrids, account for the relative ease with which these hybrids can be recognized. Finally, new sequence data from ITS2 and chloroplast DNA barcoding loci confirm the genetic relationships between the two nothospecies and their respective parents.
["North America"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Two new desert Eschscholzia (Papaveraceae) from southwestern North America
Two new species of Eschscholzia are described. Both are found in the deserts of California and one extends outside the state boundary into Arizona. Eschscholzia androuxii Still, sp.nov. is found mainly in and around Joshua Tree National Park in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Eschscholzia papastillii Still, sp. nov. is found from the northern Mojave south through Joshua Tree National Park to central Imperial County. Both are annuals found in coarse, sandy soil and have yellow flowers typical of desert Eschscholzia. Eschscholzia papastillii has an expanded receptacular rim similar to that of E. californica. Eschscholzia androuxii has anthocyanin bands around the stamen filaments.
["Arizona"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Piptochaetium fuscum (Nees ex Steud.) Barkworth, Ciald., & Gandhi, a new combination replacing Piptochaetium setosum (Trin.) Arechav.
A new name, Piptochaetium fuscum, is provided for a taxon hitherto known as Piptochaetium setosum (Trin.) Arechav. Morphological, anatomical, and molecular studies that argue against including Piptochaetium in Stipa, and hence use of S. purpurata (Phil.) Columbus & J.P. Sm., are cited.
["Stipeae"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Lithocarpus orbicarpus (Fagaceae), a new species of Stone Oak from Phang Nga province, Thailand
A new species is described, Lithocarpus orbicarpus Strijk, collected from Ton Pariwat Wildlife Sanctuary, Mueang district, Phang Nga Province in the Peninsular Floristic Region of Thailand. We provide the first technical illustrations and colour photographs of the new species, as well as a description of its conservation status and the collecting locality. The species can be easily distinguished by its unique orbicular acorns, each covered with a dense pattern of irregularly placed scales, which completely conceal the nut, except for a tiny apical pore, and which are arranged in a dense cluster on an erect woody spike. We also provide an amendment to the existing diagnostic key to Lithocarpus, and discuss important differences with morphologically similar species found in Thailand and the surrounding region.
["Lithocarpus orbicarpus"]

Piper kelleyi, a hotspot of ecological interactions and a new species from Ecuador and Peru
We describe Piper kelleyi sp. nov., a new species from the eastern Andes of Ecuador and Peru, named in honor of Dr. Walter Almond Kelley. Piper kelleyi is a member of the Macrostachys clade of the genus Piper and supports a rich community of generalist and specialist herbivores, their predators and parasitoids, as well as commensalistic earwigs, and mutualistic ants. This new species was recognized as part of an ecological study of phytochemically mediated relationships between plants, herbivores, predators, and parasitoids. Compared to over 100 other Piper species surveyed, Piper kelleyi supports the largest community of specialist herbivores and parasitoids observed to date.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies"]

Synopsis of Plazia Ruiz & Pav. (Onoserideae, Asteraceae), including a new species from northern Peru
A synopsis of Plazia Ruiz & Pav. (Onoserideae, Asteraceae) is presented, including the description of a new species, Plazia robinsonii M.O.Dillon & Sagást., from a locality c. 20 km west of Huamachuco, Department of La Libertad in northern Peru. It most closely resembles P. conferta Ruiz & Pav., a narrow endemic from central Peru some 450 km to the south; however, the latter species has larger leaves and smaller capitula. Plazia is a small genus of four species confined to the Andean Cordillera of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. A distribution map of the four species, an illustration of the new species, a photograph of the holotype, and a key to species are provided.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties"]

Aristolochia quangbinhensis (Aristolochiaceae), a new species from Central Vietnam
Aristolochia quangbinhensis T.V. Do, a new species from Central Vietnam, is described and illustrated. According to morphology, the species belongs to Aristolochia subgenus Isotrema. A detailed description, along with line drawings, photographs, ecology, distribution, conservation status as well as a comparison to morphologically similar species is provided.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Nephrotoxicity and Medicinal Plants", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Revision of the African genus Uvariastrum (Annonaceae)
The genus Uvariastrum (Annonaceae) is restricted to continental Africa and is characterized by sepals with folded margins, few carpels and numerous stamens. The genus is mainly found in the tropical lowland rain forests of Africa, with one species growing in a drier woodland habitat. The species name U. pynaertii De Wild is reduced into synonymy with U. zenkeri Engl. & Diels. Uvaraistrum neglectum Paiva and U. modestum Diels are transferred to the genus Uvaria leading to two new combinations: Uvaria modesta (Diels) Couvreur, comb. nov. and Uvaria paivana Couvreur, nom. nov.. Five species are currently recognized in Uvariastrum. The present revision, the first of the genus for over 100 years, provides an overview of previously published information and discussions on morphology, taxonomy and palynology. Preliminary conservation status assessments are provided for each species, as well as diagnostic keys for fruiting and flowering material as well as detailed species descriptions. Furthermore, all species are illustrated by line drawings and all species are mapped.

A new species of Espeletiopsis (Millerieae, Asteraceae) from Colombia
A new species of Espeletiopsis was found in two small páramos of Norte de Santander, Colombia. The species is named Espeletiopsis diazii honoring the contributions of Santiago Díaz-Piedrahita in recognition of his vast knowledge of the Compositae in Colombia. This is a very distinctive species, markedly different from most of the Espeletiopsis present in Colombia. The new species is closely related to Espeletiopsis caldasii and E. santanderensis, but differs in(1–)4–6(–7) capitula, with very short peduncles, and capitula arranged in a compact or densely glomerate cyme. With a total distribution area of less than 75 km2, this species is probably critically endangered or imperiled.
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

Lucky morning glory, Calystegia felix (Convolvulaceae): a new species from Southern California, with notes on the historical ecology of the Chino ciénega belt
A new morning glory, Calystegia felix Provance & A.C. Sanders sp. nov. (Convolvulaceae), is described from the Los Angeles, San Gabriel, and Santa Ana River basins. Historical collections of the species, which prior to 2011 had not been seen alive in 94 years, have been misidentified as Calystegia sepium (L.) R. Br. subsp. binghamiae (Greene) Brummitt. The undescribed species was rediscovered in the City of Chino in April of 2011, a few miles north of the location where the most recent previous collection had been made by I. M. Johnston in 1917. The plants were found just prior to their likely destruction by grading and trenching for an underground power line. Intensive searches have resulted in the discovery of five additional occurrences, all of them in the City of Chino. Calystegia felix is at high risk of soon becoming extinct in the wild. All of the known extant occurrences are associated with well-watered landscaping on recently completed industrial, commercial, and residential developments. Every known living occurrence is within the limits of a ciénega belt, which is now mostly historical. Otherwise, the new species is only known only from collections made around the turn of the 20th century in what are now heavily urbanized areas, including one from South Los Angeles and another from Pico Rivera in Los Angeles County. Calystegia felix lacks the large bracts that immediately subtend, and enclose the calyx, which are always present in members of the C. sepium complex. Affinities to C. felix are found among other western US species with graduated sepals and small, often somewhat remote bracts. We discuss the enduring confusion between C. felix and C. sepium subsp. binghamiae, and differentiate the new species from some of its more likely relatives. The taxonomic treatment is supplemented by photos of herbarium specimens and living plants. We also discuss the ecological setting of Chino’s ciénega belt, which was a mosaic of palustrine wetlands.
["alkali meadow"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Rangeland and Wildlife Management", "Archaeology and Natural History"]

Distribution models and species discovery: the story of a new Solanum species from the Peruvian Andes
A new species of Solanum sect. Solanum from Peru is described here. Solanum pseudoamericanum Särkinen, Gonzáles & S.Knapp sp. nov. is a member of the Morelloid clade of Solanum, and is characterized by the combination of mostly forked inflorescences, flowers with small stamens 2.5 mm long including the filament, and strongly exerted styles with capitate stigmas. The species was first thought to be restricted to the seasonally dry tropical forests of southern Peru along the dry valleys of Río Pampas and Río Apurímac. Results from species distribution modelling (SDM) analysis with climatic predictors identified further potential suitable habitat areas in northern and central Peru. These areas were visited during field work in 2013. A total of 17 new populations across the predicted distribution were discovered using the model-based sampling method, and five further collections were identified amongst herbarium loans. Although still endemic to Peru, S. pseudoamericanum is now known from across northern, central and southern Peru. Our study demonstrates the usefulness of SDM for predicting new occurrences of rare plants, especially in the Andes where collection densities are still low in many areas and where many new species remain to be discovered.
["Tropical Andes"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Whatever happened to Bishopanthus (Compositae, Liabeae)?
The enigmatic monospecific Bishopanthus of the tribe Liabeae (Compostiae/Asteraceae) has never been fully understood. It has not been possible to examine it in detail since it was described, because most of the type material was destroyed shortly after it arrived at the US National Herbarium, the morphology is insufficient to assign it to a subtribe, and the small amount of leaf material that remains is unsuitable for DNA extraction. A detailed description in English, image of the type specimen, photograph, and original illustration are included along with an estimation of where it was collected in the hopes that this information will encourage other field botanists who collect in northern Peru to search for it.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Herbal Medicine Research Studies"]

Revision of Cyrtandra (Gesneriaceae) in the Marquesas Islands
During the preparation of the Vascular Flora of the Marquesas Islands three new species of Cyrtandra (Gesneriaceae) have come to light and are described herein: C. uapouensis W. L. Wagner & Lorence, C. uahukaensis W. L. Wagner & Lorence, and C. kenwoodii W. L. Wagner & A. J. Wagner. Amended descriptions of the eight previously described Marquesan species are also provided as well as a key to the species. With the description of these the new species Cyrtandra in the Marquesas Islands consists of 11 species, six of which have been included in recent molecular phylogenetic studies of Pacific Cyrtandra, and appear to have arisen from one original introduction. If the other five species are members of this Marquesas clade then Cyrtandra would represent the largest lineage of Marquesas vascular plants. Psychotria is largest genus in the Marquesas Islands with 13 species, but is thought to consist of three separate lineages.
["Cyrtandra"]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

A new cryptically dioecious species of bush tomato (Solanum) from the Northern Territory, Australia
A new species of dioecious Solanum from the Australian “Dioicum Complex” of Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum is described. Solanum cowiei Martine sp. nov., is allied with other members of this problematic lineage, but differs in its slender leaves, limited armature and diminutive habit. The species was first segregated by botanists at the Northern Territory Herbarium as Solanum sp. Litchfield (I.D. Cowie 1428); and specimens representing this species have also been referred to by Symon as Solanum sp. Fitzmaurice River. Collections suggest that this is an endemic of the sub-arid tropical zone of the Northern Territory. SEM images support initial assumptions that the new species is cryptically dioecious via production of inaperturate pollen grains in morphologically hermaphrodite flowers.
["Bush tomato"]

A synopsis of the New World species of Drypetes section Drypetes (Putranjivaceae) with asymmetrical fruits, including description of a new species
A synopsis of the New World species of Drypetes (Putranjivaceae) with asymmetrical drupes is presented. The group consists of three species: D. alba, with two varieties, from the West Indies, D. gentryi from Mexico, and the newly described D. asymmetricarpa from Costa Rica. The new species can be distinguished from both its relatives by its longer fruiting pedicels. In addition, the new species differs from D.alba by its larger fruits, and from D. gentryi byshorter staminate pedicels and stigmas borne on styles (rather than sessile). Lectotypes are designated for D. alba var. latifolia and D. incurva.

Lejeunea hodgsoniana, a newly described, long recognised Lejeunea (Jungermanniopsida, Lejeuneaceae) from lowland coastal forest habitats in New Zealand
Lejeunea hodgsoniana Grolle ex R.J.Lewington, P.Beveridge & M.A.M.Renner sp. nov., A taxon originally recognised by Riclef Grolle in 1980, but not described, known from a number of coastal sites in the North Island, the northern extremity of the South Island, the Kermadec Islands, and the Chatham Islands of New Zealand, is described and illustrated. The species is distinctive amongst species of Lejeunea in the Australasian flora in the combination of complanate shoots, relatively large broadly-ovate leaf lobes, with some lobules bearing prominent multicellular triangular teeth on a base of two to four cells, the flattened perianthsa faint dorsal carina. Its publication brings the number of species recognized for New Zealand to 14, seven of which are currently considered endemic.
["Lejeunea hodgsoniana"]

A new species of Coespeletia (Asteraceae, Millerieae) from Venezuela
A new species of Coespeletia from the páramos of Mérida (Venezuela) is described here. This species, named Coespeletia palustris, is found in a few marshy areas of the páramo. It is closely related to C. moritziana, but differs from it in a smaller number of florets in the capitula, larger ray flowers with longer ligulae and longer linguiform appendages, smaller pollen grains, larger cypselae, ebracteate scapes, leaves and inflorescences with more whitish indumentum, larger leaf sheaths, and marshy habitat.
["Coespeletia"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Integrative taxonomy resolves the cryptic and pseudo-cryptic Radula buccinifera complex (Porellales, Jungermanniopsida), including two reinstated and five new species
Molecular data from three chloroplast markers resolve individuals attributable to Radula buccinifera in six lineages belonging to two subgenera, indicating the species is polyphyletic as currently circumscribed. All lineages are morphologically diagnosable, but one pair exhibits such morphological overlap that they can be considered cryptic. Molecular and morphological data justify the re-instatement of a broadly circumscribed ecologically variable R. strangulata, of R. mittenii, and the description of five new species. Two species Radula mittenii Steph. and R. notabilis sp. nov. are endemic to the Wet Tropics Bioregion of north-east Queensland, suggesting high diversity and high endemism might characterise the bryoflora of this relatively isolated wet-tropical region. Radula demissa sp. nov. is endemic to southern temperate Australasia, and like R. strangulata occurs on both sides of the Tasman Sea. Radula imposita sp. nov. is a twig and leaf epiphyte found in association with waterways in New South Wales and Queensland. Another species, R. pugioniformis sp. nov., has been confused with Radula buccinifera but was not included in the molecular phylogeny. Morphological data suggest it may belong to subg. Odontoradula. Radula buccinifera is endemic to Australia including Western Australia and Tasmania, and to date is known from south of the Clarence River on the north coast of New South Wales. Nested within R. buccinifera is a morphologically distinct plant from Norfolk Island described as R. anisotoma sp. nov. Radula australiana is resolved as monophyletic, sister to a species occurring in east coast Australian rainforests, and nesting among the R.buccinifera lineages with strong support. The molecular phylogeny suggests several long-distance dispersal events may have occurred. These include two east-west dispersal events from New Zealand to Tasmania and south-east Australia in R. strangulata, one east-west dispersal event from Tasmania to Western Australia in R. buccinifera, and at least one west-east dispersal from Australia to New Zealand in R. australiana. Another west-east dispersal event from Australia to Norfolk Island may have led to the budding speciation of R. anisotoma. In contrast, Radula demissa is phylogeographically subdivided into strongly supported clades either side of the Tasman Sea, suggesting long distance dispersal is infrequent in this species.
["Radulaceae"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Diatoms and Algae Research"]

A new species from Thailand and Burma, Dracaena kaweesakii Wilkin & Suksathan (Asparagaceae subfamily Nolinoideae)
A morphologically distinct element of the group of Dracaena species from Thailand and Burma with undifferentiated leaf sheaths, no leaf blade central costa, free tepals and free thickened filaments known as Chan nuu or Chan pha krai in Thai is shown to be a distinct species, Dracaena kaweesakii Wilkin & Suksathan based on habit, leaf base and margin, inflorescence axis indumentum and floral characters. It is described and illustrated. Ecological and conservation status assessment information are provided.
["Dracaena L."]
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities"]

A new species of Licania (Chrysobalanaceae) from Cordillera del Cóndor, Ecuador
A new mid altitude species of the predominantly lowland genus Licania, L. condoriensis from Ecuador is described and illustrated.
["Chrysobalanaceae"]
["Botanical Research and Applications", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

A new species of Bauhinia L. (Caesalpinioideae, Leguminosae) from Nakhon Phanom Province, Thailand
A new liana species of the subfamily Caesalpinioideae (Leguminosae), namely Bauhinia nakhonphanomensis, collected from the Phulangkha National Park, Nakhon Pranom Province, Thailand, is described and illustrated. It is easily recognized by the following combination of characters: tendrilled liana, entire leaves, acuminate or caudate leaf apices, oblong or elliptic floral bud, floral bud 25–35 mm long, raceme or panicle inflorescence, 10–13 mm long hypanthium, anther opening by longitudinal slits. Important comparative morphological characters with some closely related species are discussed.
["Bauhinia nakhonphanomensis"]

Circumscription and lectotypification of Hedychium villosum and its variety H. villosum var. tenuiflorum (Zingiberaceae)
The nomenclatural confusion between the Indian gingers Hedychium villosum Wallich and its variety H. villosum var. tenuiflorum (Wall. ex Voigt) Wall. ex Baker is discussed. Both taxa are lectotypified in order to stabilize the names and contribute towards a resolution of their confusing nomenclatural past. Both taxa are described in detail to aid identification.
["Gingers"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Southeast Asian Sociopolitical Studies"]

Guzmania panamensis (Bromeliaceae) – a new species from Talamanca Mountain in Veraguas province, Western Panama
Guzmania panamensis (Bromeliaceae), a new species so far endemic to Veraguas province, Western Panama, is described and illustrated. The new species is recognized due to its peduncle much longer than the leaves and its red floral bracts, shorter than the yellow flowers. The new species is compared to morphologically similar species, namely Guzmania monostachia, G. berteroniana, G. elvallensis, and G. skotakii.
["Epiphyte"]

New Lepidium (Brassicaceae) from New Zealand
A revision of the New Zealand endemic Lepidium oleraceum and allied species is presented. Sixteen species are recognised, 10 of these are new. The new species are segregated on the basis of morphological characters supported by molecular data obtained from three DNA markers (two rDNA and one cpDNA). One species, L. castellanum sp. nov., is endemic to the Kermadec Islands where it is sympatric with L. oleraceum. The North Island of New Zealand supports four species, with two of them, L. amissum sp. nov. and L. obtusatum, now extinct. The South Island supports six species, that, aside from L. banksii, L. flexicaule and L. oleraceum, are all confined to the south-eastern half of the island (L. aegrum sp. nov., L. crassum sp. nov. and L. juvencum sp. nov.). One of these, L. juvencum sp. nov., extends to Stewart Island. The Chatham Islands support six species (L. flexicaule, L. oblitum sp. nov., L. oleraceum, L. oligodontum sp. nov., L. panniforme sp. nov., and L. rekohuense sp. nov.), one of which, L. oligodontum sp. nov., extends to the Antipodes Islands group. The remote, subantarctic Bounty Islands group supports one endemic, L. seditiosum sp. nov., which is the only vascular plant to be recorded from there. Lepidium limenophylax sp. nov. is known from islands off the south-western side of Stewart Island/Rakiura, The Snares and Auckland islands. Lepidium naufragorum, although not related to L. oleraceum and its allies, is also treated because populations with entire leaves are now known. Typification is undertaken for L. banksii, L. oleraceum, L. oleraceum var. acutidentatum, var. frondosum and var. serrulatum.
["New Zealand Archipelago"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

The Flora of Chad: a checklist and brief analysis
A checklist of the flora of Chad has been compiled by the authors, based on literature, on-line data-bases, herbarium collections and land surveys (1998-2011). It counts 2,460 records, i.e. 2,288 species (including 128 autonyms), 83 subspecies, 81 varieties, 8 forms, while all the previous available information reported 1,600 species. They belong to 151 Families, with 48.7% of the taxa belonging to the 6 largest families, i.e. Poaceae (14.6%), Fabaceae (13.6%), Cyperaceae (7.0%), Asteraceae (6.2 %), Malvaceae (3.9%) and Rubiaceae (3.4%).A total number or 2,173 species (88.3%) are native to Chad, including 55 (2.2%) endemic species, while 274 (11.0%) are alien to Chad, and 13 (0.5%) are considered cryptogenic, i.e. of uncertain status. It represents a considerable update on previous knowledge on the alien flora of Chad that counted for 131 taxa (5.3%). There are 657 therophytes (26.7%), 546 phanerophytes (22.2%), 378 hemicryptophytes (15.4%), 256 chamaephytes (10.4%), 160 geophytes (6.5%), 107 helophytes (4.3%), 104 hydrophytes (4.2%). A total of 252 taxa (10.2) may have different life forms (e.g. terophytes or chamaephytes).
["Chad"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry"]

A revision of the Dulcamaroid Clade of Solanum L. (Solanaceae)
The Dulcamaroid clade of Solanum contains 45 species of mostly vining or weakly scandent species, including the common circumboreal weed Solanum dulcamara L. The group comprises members of the previously recognised infrageneric groupings sect. Andropedas Rusby, sect. Californisolanum A. Child, sect. Dulcamara (Moench) Dumort., sect. Holophylla (G.Don) Walp., sect. Jasminosolanum (Bitter) Seithe, sect. Lysiphellos (Bitter) Seithe, subsect. Nitidum A.Child and sect. Subdulcamara Dunal. These infrageneric groups are not monophyletic as traditionally recognised, and the complex history of the classification of the dulcamaroid solanums is reviewed. Many of the species in the clade are quite variable morphologically; plants are shrubs, herbaceous vines or woody canopy lianas, and habits can vary between these states in a single locality. Variation in leaf shape and pubescence density and type is also extreme and has lead to the description of many minor morphological variants as distinct species. The flowers of members of the group are generally very showy, and several species (e.g., S. crispum Ruiz & Pav., S. laxum Spreng., S. seaforthianum Andrews) are popular ornamental plants that have occasionally escaped from cultivation and become naturalised. The clade is here divided into five morphologically and geographically delimited species groups to facilitate further study. One new species from southern Ecuador, Solanum agnoston S.Knapp sp. nov., is described here. Full descriptions and synonymies (including designations of lectotypes or neotypes), preliminary conservation assessments, illustrations, distribution maps, and an extensive list of localities are provided for all species.
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Reinterpretation of the nomenclatural type of Pseudobombax heteromorphum (Malvaceae, Bombacoideae) reveals an overlooked new species from Bolivia
In the course of a taxonomic revision of Pseudobombax Dugand, one of us (JGCS) frequently has observed herbarium specimens of Bombacoideae that comprise a mixture of different Angiosperm families. In particular, P. heteromorphum (Kuntze) A.Robyns, a frequent name in checklists of the Bolivian flora, is based on type material of Bombax heteromorphum Kuntze that is clearly a mixture of Pseudobombax flowers and Tabebuia Gomes ex DC. (Bignoniaceae) leaves. We herein designate as the lectotype of B. heteromorphum the flowers of an herbarium sheet deposited in NY and as epitype a complete specimen (leaves, flowers, and fruit) in HUEFS. We consider Bombax heteromorphum to be a synonym of P. longiflorum (Mart.) A. Robyns, a species widespread in Neotropical seasonally dry forest of Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Peru. Furthermore, we describe a new species, P. pulchellum Carv.-Sobr., apparently endemic to seasonally dry tropical forest (SDTF) in Bolivia (Chiquitano dry forest), based on specimens commonly but incorrectly identified as P. heteromorphum. We also comment on the morphology, distribution, and conservation status of this new species.
["Bombax"]
["Mangiferin and Mango Extracts", "Phytochemistry Medicinal Plant Applications", "Phytochemistry and Bioactivity Studies"]

A synopsis of Harperocallis (Tofieldiaceae, Alismatales) with ten new combinations
Ten new combinations from Asagraea, Isidrogaliva, and Tofieldia are proposed in the previously monospecific genus Harperocallis (Tofieldiaceae, Alismatales). As circumscribed here, the genus is restricted to the Americas. The majority of species occur in the Andes or the Guayana region of northern South America; more than half have restricted distributions, and H. flava is narrowly endemic in the Coastal Plain of the southeastern United States. A key to species, synonymies, distributions, representative specimens, and salient notes are presented. Populations of the species are mapped and H. robustior is illustrated. A neotype is selected for Tofieldia frigida, here considered a synonym of H. falcata. Several recent records of H. longiflora, previously known only from the type collected in 1902, are reported.
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Allium formosum Sennikov & Lazkov (Amaryllidaceae), a new species from Kyrgyzstan
Allium formosum Sennikov & Lazkov sp. nov. is described as new to science and illustrated. This species is the second member of A. sect. Spathulata F.O.Khass. & R.M.Fritsch, being different from A. spathulatum F.O.Khass. & R.M.Fritsch in larger, broader, obtuse and more intensely purple-coloured tepals, and in a more robust habit. It is a local endemic of Babash-Ata Mt. Range situated east of Fergana Valley in Kyrgyzstan, recommended for legal protection as Endangered because of the very small population size in its only locality.
["Garlic and Onion Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Phytochemistry and biological activities of Ficus species"]

Pyropia plicata sp. nov. (Bangiales, Rhodophyta): naming a common intertidal alga from New Zealand
A commonly found red alga of the upper intertidal zone of New Zealand rocky coasts is described for the first time as Pyropia plicata sp. nov. This species has been incorrectly known as Porphyra columbina Mont. (now Pyropia columbina (Mont.) W.A.Nelson) for many years. Pyropia plicata is widespread and common, and it is readily distinguished from other species of bladed Bangiales in New Zealand by its distinctive morphology, with pleated blades attached by a central rhizoidal holdfast.
["Bangiales"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

Axonopus graniticola, a new species of A. ser. Suffulti (Poaceae, Panicoideae, Paspaleae) from Minas Gerais, Brazil
A new species of Axonopus ser. Suffulti from Minas Gerais, Brazil, is described and illustrated. Comparison with morphologically related species, as well as comments on the ecology and the conservation status are provided.

A revised circumscription for the Blakeeae (Melastomataceae) with associated nomenclatural adjustments
Systematic investigations and phylogenetic analyses of the Blakeeae (Melastomataceae) have indicated that Topobea should be synonymized under Blakea, and Huilaea under Chalybea. Presented here is a detailed description of the Blakeeae, a key to its two accepted genera, and a listing of 62 new combinations, including 3 new names, necessitated by the transfer of Topobea as follows: B. acuminata (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. adscendens (E.Cotton & Matezki) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. albertiae (Wurdack) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. amplifolia (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. arboricola (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. asplundii (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. barbata (Gleason) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. brenesii (Standl.) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. brevibractea (Gleason) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. bullata (E.Cotton & Matezki) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. calcarata (L.Uribe) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. calophylla (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. calycularis (Naudin) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. castanedae (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. clavata (Triana) Penneys & Judd, nom. nov., B. cordata (Gleason) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. cuprina Penneys & Judd, nom. nov., B. cutucuensis (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. dimorphophylla (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. discolor (Hochr.) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. dodsonorum (Wurdack) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. eplingii (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. ferruginea (Gleason) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. fragrantissima (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. gerardoana (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. glaberrima (Triana) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. henripittieri (Cogn.) Penneys & Almeda, comb. et nom. nov., B. hexandra (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. horologica Penneys & Judd, nom. nov., B. induta (Markgr.) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. inflata (Triana) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. insignis (Triana) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. intricata (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. killipii (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. lentii (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. longiloba (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. longisepala (Gleason) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. macbrydei (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. maguirei (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. maurofernandeziana (Cogn.) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. mcphersonii (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. modica (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. mortoniana (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. muricata (Lozano) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. pascoensis (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. pluvialis (Standl.) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. sessilifolia (Triana) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. setosa (Triana) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. standleyi (L.O.Williams) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. stephanochaeta (Naudin) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. steyermarkii (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. suaveolens (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. subbarbata (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. subscabrula (Triana) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. subsessiliflora (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. superba (Naudin) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. tetramera (Almeda) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov., B. tetroici (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. toachiensis (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. trianae (Cogn.) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. verrucosa (Wurdack) Penneys & Judd, comb. nov., B. watsonii (Cogn.) Penneys & Almeda, comb. nov.
["Blakeeae"]

Murdannia saddlepeakensis (Commelinaceae) – a new species from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
Murdannia saddlepeakense (Commelinaceae), a new species from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, is described and illustrated. The new species is remarkable for its narrowly linear leaves, two fertile stamens, single seeded locule and scorbiculate seeds.
["Commelinaceae"]
["Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

Ridleyandra iminii (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Peninsular Malaysia
A new endemic species of Ridleyandra (Gesneriaceae), R. iminii Siti-Munirah from Peninsular Malaysia is described and illustrated. Among Ridleyandra species, it is the only one with a dark red flower.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Geological and Geophysical Studies"]

Three new species of Pilea (Urticaceae) from limestone karst in China
Three hitherto undescribed species of Pilea (Urticaceae) from limestone karst in China are described and illustrated. Affinities of the species are discussed and Global Species Conservation Assessments presented. The new species are Pilea cavernicola A.K. Monro, C.J. Chen & Y.G. Wei, sp. nov. (Vulnerable) which most closely resembles P. scripta (Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don) Wedd. and P. gracilis Handel-Mazzetti, Pilea shizongensis A.K. Monro, C.J. Chen & Y.G. Wei, sp. nov. (Endangered) which is most similar to Pilea aquarum Dunn and Pilea guizhouensis A.K. Monro, C.J. Chen & Y.G. Wei, sp. nov. (Vulnerable) which resembles Pilea boniana Gagnep. and P. rubriflora C. Wright most closely.
["Urticaceae"]

Five new species of Rhodamnia (Myrtaceae, Myrteae) from New Guinea
Five new species of Rhodamnia are proposed for New Guinea, including R. asekiensis, R. daymanensis, R. makumak, R. taratot, and R. waigeoensis. Rhodamnia sharpeana, known previously only in Australia, is reported for the first time for Papua New Guinea. Detailed species descriptions and associated taxonomic data are provided for all species. A key is provided for species of Rhodamnia with stellate trichomes. Given the overall paucity of collections, all species are tentatively assigned as Data Deficient following IUCN conservation recommendations.

Codonoboea personatiflora (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Peninsular Malaysia
Codonoboea personatiflora Kiew & Y.Y.Sam, sp. nov., is described from lowland forest in the foothills in Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia. It is unique in the genus in its personate flower. Its conservation status falls within the IUCN Endangered category.
["Codonoboea personatiflora"]

Melothria domingensis (Cucurbitaceae), an endangered Caribbean endemic, is a Cayaponia
The Neotropical genus Melothria (Benincaseae, Cucurbitaceae) is a small group of yellow- or white-flowered climbers with small to medium-sized fruits. In 1899, Alfred Cogniaux described a species from montane rainforest in Haiti as Melothria domingensis, presumably based on the overall similarity in habit, leaf shape, and fruit morphology of his incomplete herbarium material to other Central American Melothria species. Melothria domingensis is still rare in European and American herbaria and the species has never been studied in detail. We here present molecular and morphological analyses, which show that the species is misplaced in Melothria and instead belongs in the distantly related tribe Cucurbiteae in the genus Cayaponia. We illustrate the species, provide the formal transfer and an extended description, and discuss the phylogenetic, biogeographic and ecological implications, including the finding that most likely bee- and not bat-pollination is ancestral in Cayaponia.
["Cogniaux"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Advances in Cucurbitaceae Research", "Botanical Research and Applications"]

Diatoms from Brazil: the taxa recorded by Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg
The flora of diatoms from Brazil has been studied by several authors from the beginning of the 19th up to now. Some of the old lists and descriptions are unknown or have been ignored by Brazilian researchers and the situation of the names cited was not assessed. Here we compiled a list of 101 taxa of diatoms from Brazil registered by Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg during the 19th century. We checked the current nomenclatural status of those taxa and lectotypified species from Brazil described by this author. For this, we accessed the Ehrenberg collection in the Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin, Germany, where 11 samples from Brazil studied by Ehrenberg are housed and published in different papers. Using these samples, we found 101 taxa (specific and infraspecific) published by Ehrenberg from Brazil. Five species (Eunotia bidens Ehrenb., E. depressa Ehrenb., E. elephas Ehrenb., Pinnularia microstauron Ehrenb., and Terpsinoe brasiliensis Ehrenb.) were new descriptions and were lectotypified here. The other species cited for Brazil were described initially from other places. However, 23 names were invalid and one illegitimate.
["Lectotypification"]
["Diatoms and Algae Research", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

Costus loangensis, an exciting new species from Gabon, Africa
A new species of spiral ginger (Costus: Costaceae) from Gabon, Africa is described. Costus loangensis H. Maas & Maas is found in the coastal region on white sand soils under a tropical rain forest canopy. It is morphologically distinct from all other African species of Costus but shows some similarities in floral form with the savanna-inhabiting Costus spectabilis (Fenzl) K. Schum. and similarities in vegetative form with Costus ligularis Baker. Only one population of the new species is documented. Photographs of the new species are included as is a preliminary phylogeny indicating its position within the African Costaceae.

A new species of Solanum sect. Acanthophora (Solanaceae) from Argentina and Brazil
A new species of Solanum belonging to section Acanthophora (subgenus Leptostemonum) from Argentina and Brazil is described. Solanum neei Chiarini & L.A.Mentz, sp. nov. is found in clearings of semideciduous forests and in secondary formations, from the states of Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina in Brazil to the Misiones province in Argentina. It is morphologically similar to S. incarceratum Ruiz & Pav. from Peru, Bolivia and Western-Central Brazil, differing mainly by its pedunculate inflorescences. A key to related species is provided, as well a photograph of the holotype, a distribution map and illustration.
["Acanthophora"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Banana Cultivation and Research"]

A new combination in Lapanthus (Bromeliaceae)
A new combination, Lapanthus vidaliorum (O.B.C. Ribeiro & C.C. Paula) Louzada & Wand. is proposed for Orthophytum vidaliorum O. Ribeiro & C.C. Paula. In addition notes on taxonomy, geographic distribution and conservation are provided.
["Bromelioideae"]

Contribution to the taxonomy of Garcinia (Clusiaceae) in Africa, including two new species from Gabon and a key to the Lower Guinean species
Garcinia has some 260 species and is often regarded as a genus with a difficult taxonomy. No recent treatment is available for the botanically rich Lower Guinea phytogeographical region. This study aims at partly filling this gap. First, several taxonomic problems are solved. G. chromocarpa is reduced to a variety of G. quadrifaria. G. gnetoides and G. granulata are both synonyms of G. quadrifaria. G. zenkeri is a synonym of G. densivenia and lectotypes are being designated for both names. G. brevipedicellata is a synonym of G. afzelii, as is G. antidysenterica for which a lectotype is designated. Second, two new species endemic to Gabon are described: Garcinia gabonensis Sosef & Dauby and Garcinia obliqua Sosef & Dauby. Finally, an identification key to all species present in the Lower Guinea region is provided. A few remaining West African species names could not be placed with certainty, because the type material was lost or not traced yet. One is a Rutaceae while the remaining three are provisionally to be regarded as synonyms of G. smeathmannii.
["Garcinia"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Natural Compound Pharmacology Studies"]

Two new species in the Matelea stenopetala complex (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) from the Guiana Shield and Amazonian Brazil
Two new species in the Matelea stenopetala complex (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) are described from the Guiana Shield and Amazonian Brazil: Matelea brevistipitata Krings & Morillo, sp. nov. and M. trichopedicellata Krings & Morillo, sp. nov. The new species belong to a small group of adaxially-pubescent-flowered taxa within the complex, including M. hildegardiana and M. pakaraimensis. The new species are described and a dichotomous key is provided.
["Gonolobinae"]

Psoralea karooensis (Psoraleeae, Fabaceae): a new species from the Klein Karoo region of South Africa
A new species of Psoralea is described. Psoralea karooensis C.H. Stirt., Muasya & Vlok is endemic to mountain streams in the Klein Karoo region of the Western Cape Province, South Africa. The new species is characterised by its flexuose habit of many stiff bare stems with the seasonal shoots arising apically in clusters and its greenish cream flowers borne at the apex of 10–12 mm long peduncles each ending in a trifid cupulum.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

A new tetraploid species of Solanum L. sect. Solanum (Solanaceae) from Tanzania
Solanum umalilaense Manoko sp. nov. (Solanaceae) is described from the Umalila area, in the southern highlands of Tanzania. Its novelty is supported with both morphological and AFLP data. Phenetic and phylogenetic analyses place S. umalilaense as a unique and well-supported taxon among tetraploid species of Solanum sect. Solanum from Africa. It can be distinguished from other African species by its extremely developed branching, each branch producing many multi-flowered inflorescences, flowers with short calyx lobes and its persistent, small, light yellowish brown fruits.
["Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Plant tissue culture and regeneration", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Two new species of forget-me-nots (Myosotis, Boraginaceae) from New Zealand
Two new species of forget-me-nots, Myosotis chaffeyorum C.A.Lehnebach sp. nov. and Myosotis mooreana C.A.Lehnebach sp. nov. are described and illustrated. These species are endemic to New Zealand and restricted to the mountains of north-west Nelson (South Island). Both species are uncommon and M. mooreana is known from the type locality only. Their conservation status is rated as “Nationally Critical”. A table listing differences between these two new species and other similar species and an identification key are provided.

A nomenclator for the frailejones (Espeletiinae Cuatrec., Asteraceae)
The páramos and high Andean forests of the tropical Andes are largely dominated by frailejones (Espeletiinae Cuatrec., Asteraceae). These plants are ecologically and culturally essential for both ecosystems and local inhabitants. The frailejones have been studied for over two centuries, but the taxonomic knowledge is still sparse and incomplete. The inedited monograph by Cuatrecasas contains only ca. 70% of the species known today, and publications in the last decade disagree regarding the number of taxa within the group, with estimates ranging from 3 genera and 90 species to 8 genera and 154 species. Moreover the literature contains inexact information about their distribution. As part of a study of the phylogenetic and biogeographic relationships of the group, a thorough revision of the nomenclature was needed as a first step. Currently the subtribe has 8 recognized genera, 141 species, 17 subspecies, 22 varieties, 8 forms, 33 recognized hybrids, 142 synonyms and 5 invalid names, for a total of 368 names (autonyms not counted). The most current list of taxa is presented here, along with some notes and Spanish names. Tamananthus crinitus V.M.Badillo is not included within the subtribe. Various previous species or infraspecific taxa (i.e. Carramboa tachirensis (Aristeg.) Cuatrec., Espeletia algodonosa Aristeg., E. aurantia Aristeg., E. brassicoidea var. macroclada, E. brassicoidea var. pedunculata, E. garcibarrigae Cuatrec. and Espeletiopsis cristalinensis (Cuatrec.) Cuatrec.) are proposed or confirmed as hybrids. Two new records for Colombia are mentioned: Ruilopezia cardonae (Cuatrec.) Cuatrec., which is the first report of Ruilopezia for that country, and Espeletia steyermarkii Cuatrec. Observations regarding the frequency of hybrids in the subtribe are also given.
["Andean forest"]
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Revision of Poa L. (Poaceae, Pooideae, Poeae, Poinae) in Mexico: new records, re-evaluation of P. ruprechtii, and two new species, P. palmeri and P. wendtii
A revision and key to the 23 species and eight subspecies of Poa (including Dissanthelium) known to occur in Mexico is provided. All voucher specimens seen are cited for accepted taxa, except P. annua for which one voucher per state is provided. Taxa not previously known from, or poorly understood in, Mexico are discussed. Poa palmeri sp. nov. is endemic to forested slopes of the Sierra Madre Oriental, and we distinguished it from P. ruprechtii s.s., a species of central Mexico that is here emended to include P. sharpii (syn. nov.). Poa wendtii sp. nov. is described from the Sierra Santa Rosa in northern Coahuila. Poa tacanae is placed in synonymy in P. seleri. Poa gymnantha and P. occidentalis are newly reported for Mexico, and material historically identified as P. villaroelii are placed in P. chamaeclinos. The genus Dissanthelium is considered to belong within Poa, and the Mexican taxa, D. calycina subsp. mathewsii and D. californicum, are treated as P. calycina var. mathewsii and P. thomasii, respectively. Poa subsect. Papillopoa subsect. nov. is erected for P. mulleri. Lectotypes are designated for P. conglomerata and P. seleri.
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Archaeology and Natural History", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

Phylogenetic analyses place the Australian monotypic Revwattsia in Dryopteris (Dryopteridaceae)
Revwattsia fragilis (Watts) D.L. Jones (Dryopteridaceae), originally described as a Polystichum Roth by the pioneer Australian botanist Reverend W.W. Watts in 1914, is a rare epiphytic fern endemic to northeastern Queensland, Australia. Known from only a few populations, it is restricted to tropical rainforests in the Atherton Tablelands. We used the cpDNA markers psbA-trnH, rbcL, rbcL-accD, rps4-trnS, trnG-trnR, trnL-trnF, and trnP-petG to infer the relationships of Revwattsia fragilis within Dryopteridaceae. Based on our molecular analysis, we were able to reject Watts’s 1914 hypothesis of a close relationship to Polystichum. Its closest allies are a suite of Asian Dryopteris Adans. species including D. labordei, D. gymnosora, D. erythrosora and D. cystolepidota; maintaining Revwattsia renders Dryopteris paraphyletic. The epiphytic habit and distinctive long-creeping rhizome of Revwattsia appear to be autapomorphies and do not warrant its generic status. In the course of our investigation we confirmed that polyphyly of Dryopteris is also sustained by the inclusion of Acrorumohra (H.Itô)H.Itô, Acrophorus C.Presl, Arachniodes Blume, Diacalpe Blume, Dryopsis Holttum & P.J.Edwards, and Peranema D.Don. The epithet fragilis is occupied in Dryopteris, therefore we provide the name Dryopteris wattsii nom. nov. to accommodate R. fragilis in Dryopteris.

Cuatrecasanthus (Vernonieae, Compositae): A revision of a north-central Andean genus
Cuatrecasanthus is native to Ecuador and Peru and although several unusual characters define the genus, such as single flowered heads and corolla throat (limb) divided to the base with lobes that are thickened at the margins, the members of the genus were not recognized as especially closely related until relatively recently. All six species are described, including two new to science (Cuatrecasanthus kingii H. Rob. & V.A. Funk, sp. nov. and Cuatrecasanthus lanceolatus H. Rob. & V.A. Funk, sp. nov.), and one new combination is recognized (Cuatrecasanthus giannasii (Stutts) H. Rob. & V.A. Funk, comb. nov.). A key is provided along with images of the types, SEM photographs of the leaf surfaces, a distribution map, and illustrations of the two new species. All species are given a preliminary conservation status of Data Deficient in regard to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

Mimulus peregrinus (Phrymaceae): A new British allopolyploid species
Polyploidization plays an important role in species formation as chromosome doubling results in strong reproductive isolation between derivative and parental taxa. In this note I describe a new species, Mimulus peregrinus (Phrymaceae), which represents the first recorded instance of a new British polyploid species of Mimulus (2n = 6x = 92) that has arisen since the introduction of this genus into the United Kingdom in the 1800’s. M. peregrinus presents floral and vegetative characteristics intermediate between M. guttatus and M. luteus, but can be distinguished from all naturalized British Mimulus species and hybrids based on a combination of reproductive and vegetative traits. M. peregrinus displays high pollen and seed fertility as well as traits usually associated with genome doubling such as increased pollen and stomata size. The intermediate characteristics of M. peregrinus between M. guttatus (2n = 2x = 28) and M. luteus (2n = 4x = 60-62), and its close affinity with the highly sterile, triploid (2n = 3x = 44-45) hybrid taxon M. × robertsii (M. guttatus × M. luteus), suggests that M. peregrinus may constitute an example of recent allopolyploid speciation.
["Allopolyploidy"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Chromosomal and Genetic Variations", "Plant Pathogens and Resistance"]

Two new species of Gingers (Zingiberaceae) from Myanmar
Two new species of gingers (Zingiberaceae), Globba sherwoodiana W.J. Kress & V. Gowda sp. nov., and Curcuma arracanensis W.J. Kress & V. Gowda sp. nov., from Myanmar are described. The new species of Globba is currently only known in cultivation and is commonly grown and sold in markets in Myanmar. In contrast C. arracanensis has been collected from a single restricted region in the cloud forests of the Rakhine Yoma above the Bay of Bengal in western Myanmar. Three-locus DNA barcodes were generated as aids for the identification of the two new species.
["Curcuma"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Cambodian History and Society", "Southeast Asian Sociopolitical Studies"]

A new species of Camchaya (Asteraceae, Vernonieae) from Thailand
Camchaya thailandica Bunwong, Chantar. & S.C.Keeley, sp. nov. from Phu Phrabat Historical Park, Udon Thani, Thailand is described as a new species. Plant of this new species are similar to C. gracilis (Gagnep.) Bunwong & H.Rob. but differ inovate phyllaries without margin spines, 10-ribbed achenes, and broadly ovate leaves. This species is a rare endemic known only from the type collection and probably confined to open areas of sandstone hills in Udon Thani province.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities"]

A new species of Miconia (Melastomataceae, Miconieae) from the Ecuador-Peru border
Miconia machinazana C.Ulloa & D.A. Neill, sp. nov., a new species of Melastomataceae from the Ecuador-Peru border is described and illustrated. It is characterized by the narrow, decussate leaves, dense reddish brown indument, small flowers in short panicles, pale yellow petals, and anthers opening by two large terminal pores.
["Cordillera del C\u00f3ndor"]

Tetrameranthus (Annonaceae) revisited including a new species
The taxonomic revision of the infrequently collected genus Tetrameranthus by Westra (1985) is updated. A new species is described from French Guiana and Amapá, Brazil, increasing the number of species in this genus to seven.

Two new mountainous species of Lactuca (Cichorieae, Asteraceae) from Iran, one presenting a new, possibly myrmecochorous achene variant
It is shown that the concept of the Iranian endemic Lactuca polyclada in the sense of both its original author Boissier and its current use actually admixes two entirely different species, as was first noted by Beauverd a hundred years ago but has been neglected by later workers. One is a putative relative of L. rosularis, the other was recognised by Beauverd as a member of the genus Cicerbita. The name L. polyclada Boiss. is lectotypified here, maintaining its use as established by Beauverd for the Cicerbita species. Both species are morphologically delimited and mature achenes of Cicerbita polyclada are illustrated for the first time. The putative relative of Lactuca rosularis, a rare local endemic of the summit area of Kuh e-Dena, which has remained without a valid name by now, is described as a new species, Lactuca denaensis N. Kilian & Djavadi, and illustrated. A third member of the Lactuca rosularis group, L. hazaranensis Djavadi & N. Kilian, discovered among a recent collection and apparently being a rare chasmophyte of the Hazaran mountain massif in the province of Kerman, Iran, is described as a species new to science, illustrated and delimited from the other two species. This new species has peculiar achenes representing a hitherto unknown variant: the body of the beaked achenes is divided into two segments by a transversal constriction in the distal third. The proximal segment contains the embryo, the distal segment is solid with a lipid-containing yellow tissue. The easily detachable pappus and the equally easily detachable beak potentially obstruct dispersal by wind. Since detachment of the beak also exposes the lipid-containing tissue of the distal segment, its potential as an elaiosome and myrmecochory as a possible mode of dispersal are discussed.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Revision of the Maddenia clade of Prunus (Rosaceae)
The Maddenia clade of Prunus L. is monographed based on herbarium and field studies. Four species are currently accepted in this group: Prunus himalayana J.Wen, P. hypoleuca (Koehne) J.Wen, P. hypoxantha (Koehne) J.Wen, and P. gongshanensis J.Wen, with the last described herein as a new species. Maddenia fujianensis Y.T.Chang and M. incisoserrata T.T.Yü & T.C.Ku are treated as synonyms of Prunus hypoleuca.
["Maddenia"]
["Botanical Studies and Applications", "Ecology and Conservation Studies", "Horticultural and Viticultural Research"]

Description and molecular diagnosis of a new species of Brunfelsia (Solanaceae) from the Bolivian and Argentinean Andes
Brunfelsia plowmaniana N.Filipowicz & M.Nee sp. nov., a species from humid and cloud forests of the Bolivian and Argentinean Andes, is described and provided with a molecular diagnosis, using provisions available in the recently approved International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi and plants. Specimens belonging to the new species were previously placed in the polymorphic B. uniflora (Pohl) D.Don, which a molecular phylogeny revealed as polyphyletic. Revision of numerous collections revealed clear morphological differences between the new species and B. uniflora, the type locality of which is in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.
["Brunfelsia"]
["Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Phytochemistry and Bioactive Compounds"]

Taxonomic synopsis of invasive and native Spartina (Poaceae, Chloridoideae) in the Pacific Northwest (British Columbia, Washington and Oregon), including the first report of Spartina ×townsendii for British Columbia, Canada
Five species of the grass genus Spartina are invading salt marshes along the Pacific coast of North America, of which three have been documented in British Columbia, Canada, in only the last decade. A taxonomic synopsis of the two native (S. gracilis, S. pectinata) and five introduced Spartina taxa (S. anglica, S. alterniflora, S. densiflora, S. patens, S. ×townsendii) in the Pacific Northwest is presented to facilitate their identification, including nomenclature, a new taxonomic key, new descriptions for a subset of taxa, and representative specimens. Spartina ×townsendii is newly reported for the flora of British Columbia. The non-coastal species S. pectinata is reported from an urban site in British Columbia, the first confirmed report of the taxon for the province. Lectotypes are newly designated for S. anglica C.E. Hubb., S. maritimasubvar.fallax St.-Yves, and S. cynosuroides f. major St.-Yves.
["invasive grasses"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Eriocaulon madayiparense (Eriocaulaceae) – A new species from the foot hills of the Western Ghats of India
Eriocaulon madayiparense Swapna, Rajesh, Manju & Prakashkumar, sp. nov. is described and illustrated from the Madayipara, a lateritic hillock in the midland of Kannur District of Kerala. The species is allied to E. eurypeplon Koernicke, in its two free male and female sepals, female sepals being keeled and acute and not exceeding the floral bracts, acuminate leaf apex and setiform seed appendages appearing in vertical rows, but differs mainly inyellow seeds with solitary appendage arising from transverse radial walls, curved and connate with the adjacent ones of the same vertical row forming longitudinal parallel ribs on the surface of the seeds.
["Eriocaulon madayiparense"]

Alatococcus, a new genus of Sapindaceae from Espirito Santo, Brazil
The new genus Alatococcus (Sapindaceae) is described from Espirito Santo, Brazil. Alatococcus seems to be closely related to Scyphonychium of northeastern Brazil, as they both share similar vegetative morphology, flowers with zygomorphic calyx, fruits with indehiscent mericarps, and isopolar, tricolporate pollen grains. They however differ by the shape of the nectary disc, petal appendages, mericarps, and pollen shape and ornamentation. The new species Alatococcus siqueirae is described and illustrated.
["Alatococcus"]

Eight new species of Cestrum (Solanaceae) from Mesoamerica
As part of the preparation of a taxonomic revision of Cestrum (Solanaceae) for Flora Mesoamericana eight hitherto undescribed species from Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Panama were identified. These eight new species are described and illustrated. Affinities of the species are discussed and Global Species Conservation Assessments presented. The new species are Cestrum amistadense A.K. Monro, sp. nov. (Vulnerable) which most closely resembles Cestrum longiflorum Ruiz & Pav., Cestrum contrerasianum A.K. Monro, sp. nov. (Vulnerable) which most closely resembles Cestrum formosum C.V.Morton, Cestrum darienense A.K. Monro, sp. nov. (Near Threatened) which most closely resembles Cestrum morae Hunz., Cestrum gilliae A.K. Monro, sp. nov. (Near Threatened) which most closely resembles Cestrum morae, Cestrum haberii A.K. Monro, sp. nov. (Vulnerable) which most closely resembles Cestrum poasanum Donn.Sm., Cestrum knappiae A.K. Monro, sp. nov. (Near Threatened) which most closely resembles Cestrum acuminatum Francey, Cestrum lentii A.K. Monro, sp. nov. (Near Threatened) which most closely resembles Cestrum johnniegentrianum D’Arcy and Cestrum talamancaense A.K. Monro (Least Concern) which most closely resembles Cestrum laxum Benth.

A new species of Solanum named for Jeanne Baret, an overlooked contributor to the history of botany
We describe Solanum baretiae sp. nov., a new species of Solanum section Anarrhichomenum, named in honor of Jeanne Baret, who sailed as the assistant to botanist Philibert Commerson on Louis Antoine de Bougainville’s global circumnavigation (1766–1769). The species is similar to S. chimborazense, but differs inlarger flowers, more flowers per inflorescence, and different patterns of pubescence on the filaments (pubescent adaxially and glabrous abaxially) and style (papillose to sparsely pubescent). A description, illustration, photos, and comparisons to similar species are included. Also included is a preliminary conservation assessment, along with a brief account of the important role played by Baret during the expedition. The new species appears to be restricted to the Amotape-Huancabamba zone, an area of southern Ecuador and northern Peru known for its exceptional biodiversity.
["Amotape-Huancabamba zone"]

Frullania knightbridgei, a new liverwort (Frullaniaceae, Marchantiophyta) species from the deep south of Aotearoa-New Zealand based on an integrated evidence-based approach
Frullania is a large and taxonomically complex genus. A new liverwort species, Frullania knightbridgei sp. nov. from southern New Zealand, is described and illustrated. The new species, and its placement in Frullania subg. Microfrullania, is based on an integrated evidence-based approach derived from morphology, ecology, experimental growth studies of plasticity, as well as sequence data. Diagnostic characters associated with the leaf and lobule cell-wall anatomy, oil bodies, and spore ultra-structure distinguish it from all other New Zealand species of Frullania. A critical comparison is also made between Frullania knightbridgei and morphologically allied species of botanical regions outside the New Zealand region and an artificial key is provided. The new species is similar to some forms of the widespread Australasian species, F. rostrata, but has unique characters associated with the lobule and oil bodies. Frullania knightbridgei is remarkably interesting in comparison with the majority of Frullania species, and indeed liverworts in general, in that it is at least partially halotolerant. Maximum parsimony and maximum likelihood analyses of nuclear ribosomal ITS2 and plastidic trnL-trnF sequences from purported related species confirms its independent taxonomic status and corroborates its placement within Frullania subg. Microfrullania.
["Frullaniaceae"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

A new species of Solanum (Solanaceae) from South Africa related to the cultivated eggplant
A new andromonoecious species related to the eggplant and belonging to Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum from southern Africa is described. Solanum umtuma Voronts. & S.Knapp, sp. nov. is found in the eastern part of South Africa, and is sympatric with its close relative S. linnaeanum Hepper & P.M-L.Jaeger. It is morphologically very similar to S. cerasiferum Dunal of northern tropical Africa. A comparison table with similar and closely related species is provided, as are a distribution map and illustration of S. umtuma.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Banana Cultivation and Research", "Plant Pathogens and Fungal Diseases"]

Two new species of Elatostema (Urticaceae) from southeast Yunnan, China
Elatostema pleiophlebium and E. malipoense, two endemic species from southeast Yunnan of China, are described and illustrated. Their diagnostic characters, description and relationship with morphologically similar species are also given. Elatostema pleiophlebium is easily recognised by its glabrous stem and leaf blade, and its longitudinally 1-ribbed outer staminate bracts. Elatostema malipoense is morphologically distinct for its tuberculate achene and pistillate receptacle which is puberulous. Both new species are known only from their type localities, and they are proposed to be classified as critically endangered.

Coccinia intermedia - a new Cucurbitaceae species from West Africa
Nuclear and plastid sequences from two individuals of a suspected new species of Coccinia from West Africa were added to an available molecular phylogeny for the remaining 27 species of the genus. Phylogenetic analyses of these data indicate the new species` monophyletic status and closest relatives. Based on four fertile collections, we here describe and illustrate Coccinia intermedia Holstein. We also provide a key to the Coccinia species of West Africa and map their distributions.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Advances in Cucurbitaceae Research", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

A new heterandrous species of Solanum section Gonatotrichum Bitter (Solanaceae) from Bahia, Brazil
A new species of Solanum from Brazil is described. Solanum evolvuloides Giacomin & Stehmann sp. nov. belongs to section Gonatotrichum, a small group assigned to the Brevantherum Clade of the genus Solanum. It resembles S. turneroides Chodat, sharing with it heterandry, and S. parcistrigosum Bitter, with which it shares a similar habit and pubescence. Despite these similarities, the species can be recognized by its ovate-elliptic to cordiform leaf shape and more membranaceous leaf texture than the other species in the section, and stem, inflorescence axes, and calyx vestiture mainly composed of glandular hairs. Solanum evolvuloides is known to occur only in southeastern of Bahia state, Brazil, and in a preliminary assessment of the IUCN criteria can be considered a threatened species.
["heterandry"]

Spigelia genuflexa (Loganiaceae), a new geocarpic species from northeastern Bahia, Brazil
A new species of Spigelia (Loganiaceae) from Bahia (Brazil) is described, being the first reported geocarpic species in the family. During fruit maturation, the more basal infructescences bend down towards the ground, depositing the fruit on the surface, whereas the upper ones do so slightly but noticeably. The species is a short-lived annual apparently restricted to sandy-soil habitat with variable and heterogeneous microenvironment and is known from only two restricted localities. A short review of amphi- and geocarpic species is provided. A discussion of comparative morphology within Spigelia with regards to dwarfism, indumentum, and annual habit is included. A phylogenetic parsimony and Bayesian analysis of ITS sequences from 15 Spigelia species plus 17 outgroups in Loganiaceae confirms its independent taxonomic status: on the basis of sequence similarity and phylogenetic topology it is phylogenetically distinct from all Spigelia species sequenced so far.
["Dwarfism"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Allophylastrum: a new genus of Sapindaceae from northern South America
The new genus Allophylastrum (Sapindaceae) is described from Roraima, Brazil and Guyana. Allophylastrum resembles the genus Allophylus in its vegetative morphology but differs by its apetalous flowers with an annular nectary disc, 5-6 unequal stamens, and 4-5- porate pollen grains. A key is provided to differentiates Allophylastrum from Allophylus. The new species Allophylastrum frutescens is described and illustrated.
["Allophylastrum"]
["Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure", "Energy, Environment, and Transportation Policies", "Smart Grid Energy Management"]

Psoralea margaretiflora (Psoraleeae, Fabaceae): A new species from the Sneeuberg Centre of Floristic Endemism, Eastern Cape, South Africa
A new species of Psoralea is described. Psoralea margaretiflora C.H. Stirton & V.R. Clark is endemic to the Sneeuberg Centre of Floristic Endemism, Eastern Cape, South Africa. This resprouter is characterised by its small greenish-white flowers with a small trifid purple nectar patch and translucent veins; 5(―7)- pinnate leaflets; multi-branching erect short seasonal flowering shoots; and tall habit of many stiff bare stems with the seasonal shoots massed at the apex. It is most similar to P. oligophylla Eckl. & Zeyh., a widespread species found in the Eastern Cape. P. oligophylla, a reseeder, differs in its lax virgate spreading habit with numerous long glaucous seasonal shoots; single stem, 1(―3)-foliolate glaucous leaflets; more numerous white flowers; and standard petals with a purple ring surrounding a bright yellow nectar patch.
["Eastern Cape"]
["Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Annonaceae"]

The identity of Albuca caudata Jacq. (Hyacinthaceae) and a description of a new related species: A. bakeri
The name Albuca caudata Jacq. has been widely misunderstood or even ignored since its description in 1791. After studying herbarium specimens and living populations in South Africa, plants fitting Jacquin´s concept of that species are found to be widely distributed in the Eastern Cape, mainly in the Albany centre of Endemism. Furthermore, some divergent specimens matching Baker´s concept of A. caudata are described as a new related species: A. bakeri. Data on typification, morphology, ecology, and distribution are reported for both taxa. Affinities and divergences with other close allies are also discussed.
["Albuca bakeri sp. nov."]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies"]

A new species of Meryta (Araliaceae) from the Marquesas Archipelago, French Polynesia
Meryta pastoralis F. Tronchet & Lowry, a new species from the island of Hiva Oa in the Marquesas archipelago, is described and illustrated. It differs from other Polynesian members of the genus by its fully free ovaries, a feature shared with one other species found in the region, M. choristantha (native to the Austral Islands), from which it can be distinguished by its noticeably different leaf shape. A preliminary conservation assessment indicates that M. pastoralis is Critically Endangered.
["Meryta"]

Revision of Kadua (Rubiaceae) in the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia, with description of the new species K. lichtlei
Kadua lichtlei Lorence & W. L. Wagner, sp. nov., a new species from Ua Huka, Marquesas Islands, is described and illustrated. This new species differs from the three other Marquesan Kadua species by its broadly elliptic to broadly ovate or subcircular leaf blades as well as much smaller and more numerous (80-300) flowers and smaller capsules. Known from a single population of about 30 individuals, we conclude this new species should be added to the IUCN Red List as critically endangered (CR). A key, amended descriptions, conservation status, and specimen citations for the three previously described Marquesan species, Kadua lucei, K. nukuhivensis, and K. tahuatensis are also provided.

Revision of Coprosma (Rubiaceae, tribe Anthospermeae) in the Marquesas Islands
During the preparation of the Vascular Flora of the Marquesas Islands three new species of Coprosma (Rubiaceae, tribe Anthospermeae) have come to light and are described herein: C. fatuhivaensis W. L. Wagner & Lorence, C. meyeri W. L. Wagner & Lorence, and C. temetiuensis W. L. Wagner & Lorence. Descriptions, illustrations, conservation status, and specimen citations are provided. Amended descriptions of three previously described Marquesan Coprosma species are also provided as well as a key to the species, four of which fall into the Critically Endangered (CR) and two into the Endangered (EN) category. With the description of these the new species, Coprosma becomes the sixth largest lineage in the Marquesas Islands with six species after Psychotria (one lineage which has 9 spp.), Cyrtandra (8 spp.), Bidens (8 spp.), and Melicope (7 spp.), and Ixora (7 spp.).
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

A Reassessment of Marquesan Ochrosia and Rauvolfia (Apocynaceae) with two new combinations
A reassessment of collections of Marquesan Apocynaceae assigned to the genera Neisosperma Raf., Ochrosia Juss., and Rauvolfia L. revealed that two nomenclatural changes are necessary: 1) transfer of Neisosperma brownii Fosberg & Sachet to the genus Ochrosia, as Ochrosia brownii (Fosberg & Sachet) Lorence & Butaud, comb. nov.,  and 2) transfer of Ochrosia nukuhivensis Fosberg & Sachet to Rauvolfia as  Rauvolfia nukuhivensis (Fosberg & Sachet) Lorence & Butaud, comb. nov.  As a result, two species each of Ochrosia and Rauvolfia are recognized from the Marquesas Islands, all endemic. Recent field work has yielded important new data on their distribution, habitat, and conservation status. It is recommended that all four species should be added the IUCN Red List at the Critically Endangered (CR) category.
["Apocynaceae"]

A nomenclator of Pacific oceanic island Phyllanthus (Phyllanthaceae), including Glochidion
Recent molecular phylogenetic studies and reevaluation of morphological characters have led to the inclusion of Glochidion within a broader delimitation of Phyllanthus. It is necessary for preparation of the Vascular Flora of the Marquesas Islands to make new combinations for the Marquesan species. We also provide the relevant combinations and listing of all of the currently accepted species of Phyllanthus on Pacific oceanic islands for a total of 69 native species in oceanic Pacific islands. Glochidion tooviianum J. Florence is here placed into synonymy of P. marchionicus (F. Br.) W. L. Wagner & Lorence based on new assessment of recently collected specimens from Nuku Hiva. Glochidion excorticans Fosberg var. calvum Fosberg is placed into synonomy of P. ponapense (Hosokawa) W. L. Wagner & Lorence and Glochidion puberulum Hosokawa and Glochidion excorticans Fosberg are placed in synonymy of P. senyavinianus (Glassman) W. L. Wagner & Lorence based on new study of all Micronesian specimens available to us. No infraspecific taxa are recognized within P. pacificus of the Marquesas Islands. Species already with valid names in Phyllanthus are also listed for completeness and convenience. Brief distributional comments are given for each species. We propose new names for species for which a new combination is not possible: P. florencei W. L. Wagner & Lorence, nom. nov., P. mariannensis W.L. Wagner & Lorence, nom. nov., P. otobedii W. L. Wagner & Lorence, P. raiateaensis W. L. Wagner & Lorence, P. st-johnii W. L. Wagner & Lorence, nom. nov., and P. vitilevuensis W.L. Wagner & Lorence, nom. nov. We provide information for four additional naturalized species within the region (P. amarus, P. debilis, tenellus, and P. urinaria). The name Glochidion ramiflorum widely applied to Pacific island populations is here considered to be a species further west in the Pacific with all of the oceanic species here referred to several regional species.
["Caroline Islands"]

Weinmannia marquesana var. angustifolia (Cunoniaceae), a new variety from the Marquesas Islands
Weinmannia marquesana F. Br. var. angustifolia Lorence & W. L. Wagner, var. nov., a new variety with narrow, simple leaves endemic to Tahuata, Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia) is described and its affinities and conservation status are discussed. It is similar to the other two varieties of this species bysimple leaves, but this new variety has much narrower leaf blades, and it resembles W. tremuloides innarrow leaf blades but differs bysimple, not trifoliolate leaves.
["Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant and animal studies"]

Oxalis simplicifolia (Oxalidaceae), an unusual new unifoliolate species from the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia)
Oxalis simplicifolia Lorence & W. L. Wagner sp. nov., a new species from the Marquesas Islands (Ua Huka) is described and illustrated. It differs from the other Marquesas species, O. gagneorum, insimple, unifoliolate glabrous leaves, minutely glandular-puberulent calyx lobes, shorter corolla lobes, erect capsules, and smaller seeds. As its habitat is under serious threat from human impact, feral animals, and weeds, we concluded this new species should be added to the IUCN Red List as critically endangered (CR).
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Plant and animal studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

New pteridophyte species and combinations from the Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia
Intensive botanical exploration of the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia) for the Vascular Flora of the Marquesas Islands and Flore de la Polynésie française projects has resulted in numerous additional new collections from these islands. Study of these collections has brought to light 11 new species of pteridophytes (ferns and lycophytes) which are described herein: Blechnum pacificum Lorence & A. R. Sm., sp. nov., Cyclosorus castaneus  A. R. Sm. & Lorence, sp. nov.,  Cyclosorus florencei A. R. Sm. & Lorence, sp. nov., Dryopteris macropholis Lorence & W. L. Wagner, sp. nov., Dryopteris sweetorum Lorence & W. L. Wagner, sp. nov., Polystichum kenwoodii Lorence & W. L. Wagner, sp. nov., Polystichum uahukaense Lorence & W. L. Wagner, sp. nov., Pteris hivaoaensis Lorence & K. Wood, sp. nov., Pteris marquesensis Lorence & K. R. Wood, sp. nov., Pteris tahuataensis Lorence & K. R. Wood, sp. nov., and Thelypteris marquesensis Lorence & K. R. Wood, sp. nov. One new combination is made: Cyclosorus marquesicus (Holttum) Lorence & A. R. Sm., comb. nov. (based on Plesioneuron marquesicum Holttum).  An analysis of the conservation status of these new Marquesas Islands taxa reveals they are in need of inclusion in the IUCN Red List with conservation status ranging from vulnerable (one species), and endangered (four species), to critically endangered (five species).
["Blechnum"]

A new genus, Nothovernonia, from tropical Africa (Asteraceae or Compositae: Vernonieae)
Nothovernonia gen. nov., is described as a new genus for the tropical African Vernonia purpurea Sch.Bip. ex Walp. and V. amblyolepis Bak,cymiform inflorescences, pedunculate heads with differentiated foliiform bracts at the base, apiculate involucral bracts with scarious lateral margins, spiculiferous corolla lobes, and strongly spinose, sublopohate tricolporate pollen with the colpi meeting at the poles. The new genus belongs to the subtribe Centrapalinae and a key to the known DNA-sequenced genera of the subtribe is provided. The new species names are Nothovernonia purpurea (Sch.Bip. ex Walp.) H.Rob. and V.A.Funk, comb. nov., and N. amblyolepis (Baker) H.Rob. and V.A.Funk, comb. nov.
["Sesquiterpenes and Asteraceae Studies", "Phytochemistry and Biological Activities", "Natural product bioactivities and synthesis"]

Lectotypifications, synonymy, and a new name in Capsicum (Solanoideae, Solanaceae)
Considerable confusion exists within Capsicum (Solanaceae) about the status and typification of several names, in part due to misidentification. In addition, some specimens that serve as types have never been found or were destroyed in Berlin during the Second World War while others exhibit uncertain locality data or are composed of plants belong to more than one species, and thus require lectotypification. Fourteen lectotypes, synonyms, and a new name are here proposed.
["Capsicum"]
["Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Phytochemical Studies and Bioactivities", "Flowering Plant Growth and Cultivation"]

Nesogordonia tricarpellata (Dombeyaceae), a new species from Madagascar that compels modification of the morphological circumscription of the genus
Nesogordonia tricarpellata Skema & Dorr, sp. nov., a new species from southeastern Madagascar, is described and illustrated. It differs from all other species of Nesogordonia Baill. in6–9 stamens, 3 staminodes, a 3-carpellate ovary, and a 3-valved capsule. These androecial and gynoecial characters require modification of the long-standing circumscription of the genus. This new species also has the southernmost geographic range of any species in the genus.
["Anosyenne Mountains"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Phytochemistry and Bioactive Compounds", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

Two new species of Dilkea subgenus Dilkea (Passifloraceae) from Loreto, Peru
Two new species of Dilkea subgenus Dilkea (Passifloraceae) are described from Loreto, Peru. Dilkea hebes Feuillet, sp. nov., has leaves with elliptic to oblanceolate blades that are dull adaxially, and spherical fruits with thick walls; D. nitens Feuillet, sp. nov., has leaves with narrow–ovate blades that are shiny adaxially, and fruits with an apical cone and thin walls. Both species have been collected in Loreto (Peru). A key to the species of subgenus Dilkea is provided.
["Dilkea hebes"]

Two new South American species of Solanum section Crinitum (Solanaceae)
Two new species of Solanum section Crinitum are described here. Solanum falciforme Farruggia, sp. nov., closely resembles S. crinitum and S. lycocarpum, but differs by the presence of falcate trichomes on the young growth. It is endemic to the cerrado and adjacent woodlands of Distrito Federal, Bahia, Goiás and Minas Gerais, Brazil. The other species, Solanum pseudosycophanta Farruggia, sp.nov., has close affinities to S. sycophanta but differs from the latter inprominent long-stalked stellate hairs along the stem, calyx, petiole and the adaxial surface of the leaf, in contrast to S. sycophanta which is glabrous or pubescent with sessile to short-stalked multangulate hairs. This species is narrowly distributed in tropical montane forests of northern Peru and southern Ecuador.
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Two new species of Solanum (Solanaceae) from the Amotape-Huancabamba Zone of southern Ecuador and northern Peru
Two new species of Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum from southern Ecuador and northern Peru are described here. Solanum rubicaule S.Stern, sp. nov., is a member of sect. Torva and is characterized by a festooning, scandent growth form and fruits held horizontally on recurved pedicels. Solanum achorum S.Stern, sp. nov., is a member of sect. Erythrotrichum and is characterized by 4–12-flowered inflorescences, small seeds, and a small calyx. Both species are distributed in the Amotape-Huancabamba Zone of the Andes in northern Peru and southern Ecuador.
["Amotape-Huancabamba Zone"]

New species of Solanum (Solanaceae) from Peru and Ecuador
Three new species of “non-spiny" Solanum are described from Peru and Ecuador, and a revised description for Solanum verecundum M.Nee is presented. Solanum kulliwaita S.Knapp, sp. nov. (Dulcamaroid clade) is endemic to the Department of Cuzco in southern Peru, and is most similar to the recently described Solanum sanchez-vegae S.Knapp of northern Peru. Solanum dillonii S.Knapp, sp. nov. (Brevantherum clade) is found in southern Ecuador and northern Peru in the Amotape-Huancabamba phytogeographic zone, and is morphologically similar to the widespread Solanum riparium Ruiz & Pav. Solanum oxapampense S.Knapp, sp. nov., (also of the Brevantherum clade) is endemic to the Oxapampa region (Department of Pasco) of central Peru, and is similar to and segregated from Solanum verecundum M.Nee of Peru and Ecuador. Complete descriptions, distributions and preliminary conservation assessments of all new species are given.
["Amotape-Huancabamba zone"]

Larsenianthus, a new Asian genus of Gingers (Zingiberaceae) with four species
Larsenianthus W.J.Kress & Mood, gen. nov. is described with one new combination and three new species. Larsenianthus careyanus (Benth.) W.J.Kress & Mood, comb. nov., is widespread in India and present-day Bangladesh; L. wardianus W.J.Kress, Thet Htun & Bordelon, sp. nov., is from upper Myanmar in Kachin State; L. assamensis S.Dey, Mood, & S.Choudhury, sp. nov., is restricted to Assam, India; and L. arunachalensis M.Sabu, Sanoj & T.Rajesh Kumar, sp. nov., has only been found in Arunachal Pradesh, India. A phylogenetic analysis using the plastid trnK intron and nuclear ITS DNA sequence data indicates that the four species of Larsenianthus form a monophyletic lineage that is sister to Hedychium, a geographically widespread genus of about 50 species in tribe Zingibereae of subfamily Zingiberoideae. A dichotomous key and three-locus DNA barcodes are provided as aids for the identification of the four species of Larsenianthus.
["Bangladesh"]
["Ginger and Zingiberaceae research", "Piperaceae Chemical and Biological Studies"]

Revision of Diplocirrus Haase, 1915, including Bradiella Rullier, 1965, and Diversibranchius Buzhinskaja, 1993 (Polychaeta, Flabelligeridae)
Diplocirrus Haase, 1915, includes flabelligeridscylindrical to club-shaped bodies, with cirriform papillae, multiarticulate chaetae in both parapodial rami, 8 branchial filaments of two types (thick and rarely lamellate, or cirriform), gonopodial lobes in chaetigers 5 or 6, or multiple gonopores along some anterior chaetigers. Bradiella Rullier, 1965, has included only the type species: B. branchiata Rullier, 1965, described from Eastern Australia. The original description has been overlooked and it lacked enough details on branchial and chaetal features. Diversibranchius Buzhinskaja, 1993, with D. nicolaji Buzhinskaja, 1994, as the type species, was introduced for a similar species from the Japan Sea. These two monotypic genera share the same morphologic features with Diplocirrus, and are herein regarded as its junior synonyms. As herein redefined, Diplocirrus includes, besides its type species, D. glaucus (Malmgren, 1867)from Scandinavia : D. branchiatus (Rullier, 1965), comb. n. from Queensland, Australia, D. capensis Day, 1961 from South Africa, D. erythroporus Gallardo, 1968 from Vietnam, D. hirsutus (Hansen, 1882) from Arctic and subarctic regions, D. incognitus Darbyshire & Mackie, 2009 from South Africa, D. kudenovi sp. n. from off Western Mexico, D. longisetosus (von Marenzeller, 1890) restricted to the Bering Sea, D. micans Fauchald, 1972 from deep water off Oregon and Western Mexico, D. nicolaji (Buzhinskaja, 1994), comb. n. from the Japan Sea, D. normani (McIntosh, 1908), comb. n. from Scandinavia, D. octobranchus (Hartman, 1965), comb. n. from off New England, and D. stopbowitzi Darbyshire & Mackie, 2009 from the Irish Sea.
["Multiarticulated capillaries"]

A revision of the spider genus Selenops (Arachnida, Araneae, Selenopidae) in North America, Central America and the Caribbean
The spider genus Selenops Latreille occurs in both the Old World and New World tropics and subtropics and contains nearly half of the species in the family Selenopidae Simon. In this paper I revise the members of this genus found in North America, Central America, and on islands of the Caribbean, excluding Cuban endemics. Despite recent work in these regions, there is still a great deal of new diversity in the form of undescribed species. In the United States species, there is a great deal of variation among species, and there appears to be overlap of up to three species in a particular locality. Additionally, males and females were described from different localities, adding to the uncertainty surrounding species placement. No taxonomic changes are currently made to the species from the southwestern United States. In total, 21 new species are described including S. arikok sp. n., S. chamela sp. n., S. amona sp. n., S. baweka sp. n., S. bocacanadensis sp. n., S. enriquillo sp. n, S. ixchel sp. n., S. huetocatl sp. n., S. kalinago sp. n., S. oviedo sp. n., S. morro sp. n., S. denia sp. n., S. duan sp. n., S. malinalxochitl sp. n., S. oricuajo sp. n., S. petenajtoy sp. n., S. guerrero sp. n., S. makimaki sp. n., S. souliga sp. n., S. wilmotorum sp. n., and S. wilsoni sp. n. Selenops lunatus Muma is recognized as a junior synonym of S. candidus Muma, S. tehuacanus Muma, S. galapagoensis Banks and S. vagabundus Kraus are recognized as junior synonyms of S. mexicanus Keyserling, S. santibanezi Valdez-Mondragon is recognized as a junior synonym of S. nigromaculatus Keyserling, and S. salvadoranus Chamberlin is recognized as a junior synonym of S. bifurcatus Banks. The males of S. bani Alayon-Garcia and S. marcanoi Alayon-Garcia are described for the first time, and the females of S. phaselus Muma and S. geraldinae Corronca are described for the first time. Almost all species are redescribed, barring Cuban endemics and a few species only recently described, and new illustrations are provided, including those of the internal female genitalia, many of which are illustrated for the first time. A key to species is also provided as are all new distributional records.

Two new species of Pterostichus Bonelli subgenus Pseudoferonina Ball (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Pterostichini) from the mountains of central Idaho, U.S.A.
Two new species of Pterostichus Bonelli subgenus Pseudoferonina Ball, are described from the mountains of central Idaho: Pterostichus bousqueti Bergdahl [type locality = small tributaries of South Fork of Payette River watershed, ca. 1170 m (3840 ft), 44.0675°/-115.6822°, near Lowman, Salmon River Mountains, Boise County, Idaho, U.S.A.] and Pterostichus lolo Bergdahl [type locality = Cottonwood/Orogrande Creek, ca. 870 m (2850 ft), 46.5528°/-115.5522°, North Fork of Clearwater River watershed, Clearwater Mountains, near Bungalow, Clearwater County, Idaho, U.S.A.]. Males of P. bousqueti and P. lolo are easily distinguished from each other and the seven previously described Pseudoferonina species by the form of the median lobe of the aedeagus, and from most individuals of the other species of Pseudoferonina in Idaho by features of pronotal shape and macrosculpture. Both species appear to be obligate ripicolous hygrophiles, restricted in distribution primarily to the margins of small montane streams in forested areas. Widespread intensive stream surveys for Pseudoferonina over many years indicate the geographic ranges of both species are highly localized, and additional undescribed species may occur in Idaho.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Hydrology and Sediment Transport Processes"]

Systematics of the Phyllognathopodidae (Copepoda, Harpacticoida): re-examination of Phyllognathopus viguieri (Maupas, 1892) and Parbatocamptus jochenmartensi Dumont and Maas, 1988, proposal of a new genus for Phyllognathopus bassoti Rouch, 1972, and description of a new species of Phyllognathopus
The family Phyllognathopodidae (Crustacea, Copepoda, Harpacticoida) is heavily affected by the floating taxonomic status of the type-genus Phyllognathopus. A revision of the different character states displayed by members of the family is presented, and new phylogenetically informative characters are described, enlarging the analysis to the remaining genera of the family, Parbatocamptus and Allophyllognathopus. Phyllognathopus viguieri (Maupas, 1892) and Parbatocamptus jochenmartensi Dumont and Maas, 1988 are redescribed in detail, and Phyllognathopus inexspectatus sp. n. is described from ground water in Italy. The new genus Neophyllognathopus is established to accommodate Phyllognathopus bassoti Rouch, 1972, originally collected from Long Island (Papua - New Guinea), and subsequently recorded also from the Bantayan Island (Philippines), and from the Indian subcontinent. The new genus is presently monotypic and is easily defined by the unique construction and morphology of leg 5 in both male and female, of male leg 6, and by the peculiar ornamentation of male third and fourth urosomites. Biogeographical and ecological considerations are presented for members of the family.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Review of the continental Oriental species of Lilioceris Reitter (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Criocerinae) closely related to Lilioceris impressa (F.)
Criocerine leaf beetles found in Nepal feeding on Dioscorea bulbifera (L.), an exotic, invasive weed of Asian origin, were identified as Lilioceris cheni Gressitt and Kimoto based on a synopsis of the Oriental Lilioceris species and review of the Lilioceris impressa species group. All the continental, Oriental species included in the group are diagnosed and illustrated, and a key for their identification is provided. Species status of Lilioceris thibetana Pic, 1916 is resurrected. The following new synonyms are proposed: L. coomani (Pic, 1928) = L. egena (Weise, 1922), and L. subcostata (Pic, 1921a), L. laticornis (Gressit, 1942), L. inflaticornis Gressit and Kimoto, 1961, and L. maai Gressit and Kimoto, 1961 = L. impressa (Fabricius, 1787). Lectotypes of the following species are designated: L. coomani Pic, 1928; L. impressa (Fabricius, 1787); L. laosensis (Pic, 1916); L. malabarica (Jacoby, 1904); L. ruficornis (Pic, 1921b); L. subcostata (Pic, 1921a); L. thibetana (Pic, 1916); and L. unicolor (Hope, 1831).
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Fish, fans and hydroids: host species of pygmy seahorses
An overview of the octocoral and hydrozoa host species of pygmy seahorses is provided, based on recently collected data for H. bargibanti, H. denise and H. pontohi and literature records. Seven new interspecific host-species associations are recognized, and an overview of the so far documented number of host species is given. Detailed re-examination of octocoral type material and a review of the taxonomic history are included, as a baseline for further studies. The host-specificity and colour morphs of pygmy seahorses are discussed, as well as the validity of (previous) identifications and conservations issues.
["Acanthogorgiidae"]

Paracrias pluteus (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) in Brazil: new distribution and host records, and with a new host group for Paracrias
Bruchines damage agricultural crops and trees, reducing the quantity and quality of the seeds. The aim of this study is to record, for the first time, Paracrias pluteus as a parasitoid on the immature stages of Sennius spodiogaster and S. cupreatus on seeds of Melanoxylon brauna in Teixeiras, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Paracrias pluteus is a parasitoid without previous host records and known only from Costa Rica. Specimens obtained in this study add to knowledge of the biology of Paracrias species with a new host group (Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae), and the first host record and a new distribution for P. pluteus.
["Bruchinae"]

Morphometric analyses reveal synonymy of two monotypic genera, Huangiella and Tumoris (Acari, Eriophyoidea, Eriophyidae)
Morphological variation of Huangiella lanyuensis (Huang, 2001) and Tumoris sanasaii Huang, 2001 from Taiwan was analyzed using multivariate statistical methods. We show that these species are the same and propose to use the name Tumoris sanasaii. No significant differences between populations from Lanyu and Green Island (type localities for H. lanyuensis and T. sanasaii, respectively) were found; however, mites from Yangmingshan (northern Taiwan) differed substantially from these two groups. Synonymy resulted from our study is as follows: Huangiella Kammerer, 2006 is a junior synonym of Tumoris Huang, 2001; Absentia lanyuensis Huang, 2001 is a junior synonym of Tumoris sanasaii Huang, 2001. We also study the sexual variation of populations from Green Island. The result showed the females significantly larger than the males at 17 variables.
["Multivariate analysis"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

Annotated type catalogue of the Orthalicoidea (Mollusca, Gastropoda) in the Royal Belgian Institute of Sciences, Brussels, with descriptions of two new species
The type status is described of 57 taxa from the superfamily Orthalicoidea in the collection of the Brussels museum. Two new species are described: Stenostylus perturbatus spec. nov., and Suniellus adriani spec. nov. A new lectotype is designated for Thaumastus alausiensis Cousin, 1887. New combinations are: Bostryx borellii (Ancey, 1897); Bostryx carandaitensis (Preston, 1907); Protoglyptus mazei (Crosse, 1874); Kuschelenia (Vermiculatus) sanborni (Haas, 1947). New synonymies are established for the following nominal taxa: Orphnus thompsoni var. lutea Cousin, 1887 = Kara thompsonii (Pfeiffer, 1845); Orphnus thompsoni var. nigricans Cousin, 1887 = Kara thompsonii (Pfeiffer, 1845); Thaumastus nystianus var. nigricans Cousin, 1887 = Drymaeus (Drymaeus) nystianus (Pfeiffer, 1853); Orphnus thompsoni var. olivacea Cousin, 1887 = Kara thompsonii (Pfeiffer, 1845); Orphnus thompsoni var. zebra Cousin, 1887 = Kara thompsonii (Pfeiffer, 1845).
["Amphibulimidae"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Recent records of steppe species in Belarus, first indications of a steppe species invasion?
Belarus is situated at a crossroad of natural borders of species distributions: the NE part is situated in a taiga zone, whereas the other part of terrain is in the European forest zone. The distance of Belarus to the steppe zone is about 330 kilometers. This geographical position and the extensive knowledge of its fauna can be used to monitor changes in the distribution of different species. An intensive study of open habitat ground beetles was carried out from 1975–2008 in Belarus, using pitfall traps, quadrate-sampling methods, hand collecting, netting and light traps. In total, more than 130 000 specimens of ground beetles belonging to 169 species were collected from 62 fields and 11 meadows of different types. 217 specimens of Calosoma investigator (Illiger 1798), 2 specimens of C. denticolle (Gebler 1833), and one specimen of Harpalus subcylindricus (Dejean, 1829), H. honestus (Duftschmid 1812) and Zabrus tenebrioides (Goeze 1777) were present in this material. All specimens were macropterous and exclusively caught at fields and waste grounds on sandy soil. Nowadays Belarus is the northernmost location for these species in Eastern Europe. Steppe species most probably migrated to SE Belarus from NE Ukraine, using Dnieper and its river valleys. The shift in the geographic distribution of steppe species during the last thirty years in Belarus have been attributed to a higher frequency of warmer and wetter summers in the last few decades.
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Effects of ecological flooding on the temporal and spatial dynamics of carabid beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae) and springtails (Collembola) in a polder habitat
Within the scope of the Integrated Rhine Program an ecological flood gate and channel was inserted into the polder “Ingelheim” to enhance animal and plant diversity. In 2008, carabid beetles and springtails were collected, using pitfall traps, to measure the effects of ecological flooding and a strong precipitation event at a flood-disturbed and a dry location in this area. At both localities, xerophilic and mesophilic carabid beetle species were dominant throughout the study period. The total number of individuals of hygrophilic species was comparatively constant, while species number increased, partly due to the changed moisture conditions caused by ecological flooding and strong precipitation. Carabid beetle diversity and evenness decreased marginally when ecological flooding was absent. Springtails represent a less mobile arthropod order, and as such the impact of ecological flooding was stronger. An increase in both numbers of species and individuals of hygrophilic and hygrotolerant species occurred in the flood-disturbed location after ecological flooding. After the sites at both locations had dried, the number of individuals belonging to these species declined rapidly. In contrast to carabid species, the strong precipitation event showed no influence on hygrophilic springtail species. Thus, collembolan diversity and evenness decreased markedly in the absence of flooding. We showed that ecological flooding has an influence on the spatial and temporal dynamics of different arthropod groups that inhabit the polder “Ingelheim”. These findings demonstrate the importance of using different arthropod groups as bioindicators in determining the ecological value of a particular polder design.
["bioindication"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Fire effects on ecosystems", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Changes in salt-marsh carabid assemblages after an invasion by the native grass Elymus athericus (Link) Kerguélen
As a result of an invasion by the native grass Elymus athericus (Link) Kerguélen (Poaceae) in the last 10 years, a major change in vegetation cover has occurred in salt marshes of the Mont Saint-Michel bay, Western France. The impact of such an invasion on carabid assemblages, a dominant group of terrestrial arthropods in these habitats and containing several stenotopic species, is investigated here. In our study site, carabid data are available from 1983 and 1984, allowing a comparison of species distribution ranges in salt marshes before (1983–1984) and after (2002) the E. athericus invasion. A total of 16,867 adults belonging to 40 species were caught. By considering the presence-absence of species shared between studies, we show that the invasion by E. athericus promoted the progression of non-coastal species (mainly Pterostichus s.l. spp.). This did however not interfere with resident species distributions, finally resulting in higher carabid species richness in the entire area. The species composition and abundances of carabid assemblages were also compared between natural and invaded stations in 2002. The main result is that abundances of some halophilic species decreased in one invaded plot (in case of Pogonus chalceus (Marsham 1802)) whereas the opposite pattern was observed for other species (e.g., Bembidion minimum (Fabricius 1792)). Invaded habitats were characterized by lower percentages of halophilic species and higher total species richness.
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Predation of amphibians by carabid beetles of the genus Epomis found in the central coastal plain of Israel
The genus Epomis is represented in Israel by two species: E. dejeani and E. circumscriptus. In the central coastal plain these species are sympatric but do not occur in the same sites. The objective of this study was to record and describe trophic interactions between the adult beetles and amphibian species occurring in the central coastal plain of Israel. Day and night surveys at three sites, as well as controlled laboratory experiments were conducted for studying beetle-amphibian trophic interaction. In the field we recorded three cases of E. dejeani preying upon amphibian metamorphs and also found that Epomis adults share shelters with amphibians. Laboratory experiments supported the observations that both Epomis species can prey on amphibians. Predation of the three anuran species (Bufo viridis, Hyla savignyi and Rana bedriagae) and two urodele species (Triturus vittatus and Salamandra salamandra infraimmaculata) is described. Only E. dejeani consumed T. vittatus. Therefore, we conclude that the two species display a partial overlap in food habit.
["Epomis"]

Calleida desenderi, new species from Ecuador (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiinae)
Calleida desenderi Casale, sp. n., is described from Ecuador, Napo Province, surroundings of San Rafael. The new taxon is mostly characterized by the head and appendages rufous, the disc of elytra with marked metallic green reflection, the median lobe of aedeagus ring-like, and the endophallus with a long, twisted flagellum. A key for identification of the closer Neotropical species described so far is also provided.

The spider family Selenopidae (Arachnida, Araneae) in Australia and Asia
The spider family Selenopidae Simon occurs worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions, currently containing nearly 200 species in five genera. We relimit and revise the family to include four new genera and 27 new species from Australia and Asia. The family Selenopidae is redefined, as are the genera Anyphops Benoit, Garcorops Corronca, Hovops Benoit, Selenops Latreille, and Siamspinops Dankittipakul and Corronca, to accommodate the new genera and to correct previous errors in the definition. The species of Selenops that occur throughout India and China are also reviewed. Three species occur in China: S. bursarius Karsch, also known from Japan, Korea and Taiwan, S. ollarius Zhu, Sha, and Chen, and S. radiatus Latreille, the type of the genus and most widespread selenopid. Selenops cordatus Zhu, Sha, and Chen is recognized as a junior synonym of S. radiatus, syn. n. Amamanganops gen. n. is monotypic, with A. baginawa sp. n., and is known only from the Philippine island of Mindoro. Godumops gen. n. is monotypic, with G. careus sp. n., and is known only from Papua New Guinea. Karaops gen. n. occurs throughout Australia and has 24 species: K. australiensis (L. Koch) comb. n., K. gangarie sp. n., K. monteithi sp. n., K. alanlongbottomi sp. n., K. keithlongbottomi sp. n., K. larryoo sp. n., K. jarrit sp. n., K. marrayagong sp. n., K. raveni sp. n., K. badgeradda sp. n., K. burbidgei sp. n., K. karrawarla sp. n., K. julianneae sp. n., K. martamarta sp. n., K. manaayn sp. n., K. vadlaadambara sp. n., K. pilkingtoni sp. n., K. deserticola sp. n., K. ngarutjaranya sp. n., K. francesae sp. n., K. toolbrunup sp. n., the type species K. ellenae sp. n., K. jenniferae sp. n., and K. dawara sp. n. The genus Makdiops gen. n. contains five species from India and Nepal: M. agumbensis (Tikader), comb. n., the type of the genus M. mahishasura sp. n., M. montigenus (Simon), comb. n., M. nilgirensis (Reimoser) comb. n., and M. shiva sp. n. The genus Pakawops gen. n. is monotypic and contains P. formosanus (Kayashima) comb. n. known only from Taiwan. Finally, Selenops aculeatus Simon is transferred to the genus Siamspinops, forming the new combination S. aculeatus (Simon) comb. n. The distribution and diversity of the Australasian selenopid fauna is discussed. Keys are provided to all of the selenopid genera and to the species of Karaops and Makdiops.

Systematics and biology of the new genus Macrosaccus with descriptions of two new species (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae)
The new genus Macrosaccus Davis & De Prins is proposed for three species formerly assigned to the genus Phyllonorycter: M. robiniella (Clemens), M. morrisella (Fitch), and M. uhlerella (Fitch); two new, closely related species: M. neomexicanus Davis and M. gliricidius Davis, are also proposed. Descriptions of the adults, pupae, larvae, life histories, and distributions are supplemented with photographs, line drawings, and scanning electron micrographs. Larvae of all species are serpentine/blotch leaf miners on various genera of the plant family Fabaceae. The genus is endemic to the New World, with the invasive species M. robiniella now widely established in Europe.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Research on scale insects"]

Revision of the Taiwanese millipede genus Chamberlinius Wang, 1956, with descriptions of two new species and a reclassification of the tribe Chamberlinini (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae, Paradoxosomatinae)
The millipede genus Chamberlinius is basically confined to Taiwan, with only one of the four known species presumably introduced to southern Japan. Both previously known species are redescribed, based on new material: C. hualienensis Wang, 1956 (the type species) and C. piceofasciatus (Gressitt, 1941), the latter being a new subjective senior synonym of Chamberlinius shengmui Wang, 1957, syn. n. Two further congeners are described as new: C. pessior sp. n. and C. sublaevus sp. n. The genus is re-diagnosed, all of its four species are keyed, and their distributions mapped. The tribe Chamberlinini is reclassified and, based on gonopod traits, shown to comprise the following five genera: Chamberlinius Wang, 1956, Haplogonosoma Brölemann, 1916, Riukiupeltis Verhoeff, 1939, Aponedyopus Verhoeff, 1939 and Geniculodesmus Chen, Golovatch and Chang, 2008.

Biology and systematics of the New World Phyllocnistis Zeller leafminers of the avocado genus Persea (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae)
Four New World species of Phyllocnistis Zeller are described from serpentine mines in Persea (Family Lauraceae). Phyllocnistis hyperpersea, new species, mines the upper leaf surfaces of avocado, Persea americana Mill., and red bay, Persea borbonia (L.) Spreng. and ranges over much of the southeastern United States into Central America. Phyllocnistis subpersea, new species, mines the underside and occasionally upper sides of new leaves of Persea borbonia in southeastern United States. Phyllocnistis longipalpa, new species, known only from southern Florida also mines the undersides of new leaves of Persea borbonia. Phyllocnistis perseafolia, new species, mines both leaf surfaces and possibly fruits of Persea americana in Colombia, South America. As in all known species of Phyllocnistis, the early instars are subepidermal sapfeeders in young (not fully hardened) foliage, and the final instar is an extremely specialized, nonfeeding larval form, whose primary function is to spin the silken cocoon, at the mine terminus, prior to pupation. Early stages are illustrated and described for three of the species. The unusual morphology of the pupae, particularly the frontal process of the head, is shown to be one of the most useful morphological sources of diagnostic characters for species identification of Phyllocnistis. COI barcode sequence distances are provided for the four proposed species and a fifth, undescribed species from Costa Rica.

A second species of Oculogryphus (Coleoptera, Lampyridae), with notes on the phylogenetic affinities of the genus
A second species of the enigmatic lampyrid genus Oculogryphus is described and figured as Oculogryphus bicolor sp. n. from Vietnam. The definition of the genus is slightly modified with consideration of newly detected morphological variation from this species. According to a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis including nearly 80% of documented lampyrid genera, Oculogryphus is the putative sister group to Stenocladius s. str. within the paraphyletic group of Ototretinae-Ototretadrilinae. The classification of Stenocladius is briefly discussed in this context.
["Oculogryphus"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Plant and animal studies"]

A remarkable new species of the sharpshooter genus Egidemia (Insecta, Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Cicadellinae)
A new species of Egidemia China, 1927, E. impudica, is described and illustrated from the Department of Magdalena (Colombia). The male genitalia of the new species have a very peculiar, diagnostic feature: the pygofer is considerably reduced and truncate posteriorly, so that part of the aedeagus is exposed. A key to males of all known Egidemia species is provided. Notes comparing E. impudica with the other nine known species of the genus are also given.
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

First descriptions of copepodid stages, sexual dimorphism and intraspecific variability of Mesocletodes Sars, 1909 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Argestidae), including the description of a new species with broad abyssal distribution
Mesocletodes Sars, 1909a encompasses 37 species to date. Initial evidence on intraspecific variability and sexual dimorphism has been verified for 77 specimens of Mesocletodes elmari sp. n. from various deep-sea regions, and ontogenetic development has been traced for the first time. Apomorphies are a strong spinule-like pinna on the mx seta that is fused to the basis, P2–P4 exp3 proximal outer seta lost, P1–P4 enp2 extremely elongated, furcal rami elongated, female body of prickly appearance, female P2–P4 enp2 proximal inner seta lost. Intraspecific variability involves spinulation, ornamentation and size of the body and setation and spinulation of pereiopods. Sexually dimorphic modifications of adult females include prickly appearance of the body, P1 enp exceeds exp in length, P1 coxa externally broadened, seta of basis arising from prominent protrusion, hyaline frills of body somites ornate. Sexual dimorphism in adult males is expressed in smaller body size, haplocer A1, 2 inner setae on P2–P4 enp2 and on P5 exp, P5 basendopodal lobe with 2 setae. Some modifications allow sexing of copepodid stages. The female A1 is fully developed in CV, the male A1 undergoes extensive modifications at the last molt. P1–P4 are fully developed in CV. Mesocletodes faroerensis and Mesocletodes thielei lack apomorphies of Mesocletodes and are excluded.
["ANDEEP"]

Miocene honey bees from the Randeck Maar of southwestern Germany (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
The Miocene Randeck Maar (southwestern Germany) is one of the only sites with abundant material of fossil honey bees. The fauna has been the focus of much scrutiny by early authors who recognized multiple species or subspecies within the fauna. The history of work on the Randeck Maar is briefly reviewed and these fossils placed into context with other Tertiary and living species of the genus Apis Linnaeus (Apinae: Apini). Previously unrecorded specimens from Randeck Maar were compared with earlier series in an attempt to evaluate the observed variation. A morphometric analysis of forewing venation angles across representative Recent and Tertiary species of Apis as well as various non-Apini controls was undertaken to evaluate the distribution of variation in fossil honey bees. The resulting dendrogram shows considerable variation concerning the wing venation of Miocene Apini, but intergradation of other morphological characters reveals no clear pattern of separate species. This suggests that a single, highly variable species was present in Europe during the Miocene. The pattern also supports the notion that the multiple species and subspecies proposed by earlier authors for the Randeck Maar honey bee fauna are not valid, and all are accordingly recognized as Apis armbrusteri Zeuner.

Revision of the stiletto fly genera Acupalpa Kröber and Pipinnipons Winterton (Diptera, Therevidae, Agapophytinae) using cybertaxonomic methods, with a key to Australasian genera
Australian stiletto flies of the sister-genera Acupalpa Kröber, 1912 and Pipinnipons Winterton, 2001 (Diptera: Therevidae: Agapophytinae) are revised. Twelve new species of Acupalpa are described, while Acupalpa imitans (White, 1915), comb. n. is transferred from Pipinnipons and Acupalpa albimanis (Kröber, 1914), comb. n. is transferred from Ectinorhynchus Macquart as a senior synonym of Acupalpa pollinosa Mann. The total number of species of Acupalpa is therefore increased to 19: A. albimanis (Kröber), comb. n., A. albitarsa Mann, A. boharti sp. n., A. divisa (Walker), A. dolichorhyncha sp. n., A. glossa sp. n., A. imitans (White), comb. n., A. irwini Winterton, A. melanophaeos sp. n., A. miaboolya sp. n., A. minuta sp. n., A. minutoides sp. n., A. notomelas sp. n., A. novayamarna sp. n., A. rostrata Kröber, A. semirufa Mann, A. westralica sp. n., A. yalgoo sp. n. and A. yanchep sp. n. Three new species of Pipinnipons are described, increasing the total number of species to five: P. chauncyvallis sp. n., P. fascipennis (Kröber), P. kampmeierae sp. n., P. kroeberi Winterton, and P. sphecoda sp. n. Pipinnipons and Acupalpa are rediagnosed in light of the new species presented herein and revised keys to species are included. A dichotomous key to genera of Australasian Therevidae is included. As an empirical example of cybertaxonomy, taxonomic descriptions were composed using a character matrix developed in Lucid Builder (in Structured Descriptive Data (SDD) format) to generate natural language descriptions supplemented by online specimen and image databases. Web resources are provided throughout the document including: a) links to high resolution colour images of all species on Morphbank, b) registration of authors, publications, taxon names and other nomenclatural acts in Zoobank, with assignment of Life Science Identifiers (LSIDs) for each, c) links to Genbank accession records for DNA sequences, and d) assignment of LSIDs to specimen records with links to respective records in an online Therevidae specimen database.
["cybertaxonomy"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

A revision of the purse-web spider genus Calommata Lucas, 1837 (Araneae, Atypidae) in the Afrotropical Region
The purse-web spider genus Calommata Lucas, 1837 is revised in the Afrotropical Region. Following examination of the female type material, C. transvaalica Hewitt, 1916 is removed from synonymy with C. simoni Pocock, 1903 and revalidated. The females of both species are redescribed and their males described for the first time. While C. simoni is very widespread across tropical Africa, C. transvaalica is endemic to northern South Africa. Four new species are described, all known only from males: C. megae sp. n. (Zimbabwe), C. meridionalis sp. n. (South Africa), C. namibica sp. n. (Namibia) and C. tibialis sp. n. (Ivory Coast and Togo). Notes are presented on the biology of each species.

Rhantus fengi sp. n. from Xizang, China, and notes on Laccoporus nigritulus (Gschwendtner) (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae)
Rhantus fengi sp. n. from Mount Sejila, Xizang, China is described and illustrated. Laccoporus nigritulus (Gschwendtner, 1936) is redescribed and illustrated; Laccoporus viator Balfour-Browne, 1939, syn. n. is established as its junior subjective synonym.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Marine Gastrotricha of the Near East: 1. Fourteen new species of Macrodasyida and a redescription of Dactylopodola agadasys Hochberg, 2003
The near eastern geographical region is almost devoid of reports of macrodasyidan gastrotrichs, the exceptions themselves being part of this study. Here, as Part 1 are described fourteen new Macrodasyida from countries of the Near East (Cyprus, Egypt and Israel, representing both the Mediterranean and the Red Seas), and a redescription of the previously described Dactylopodolidae: Dactylopodola agadasys Hochberg, 2002. The new species are: Cephalodasyidae (2) - Cephalodasys dolichosomus; Cephalodasys saegailus; Dactylopodolidae (1) Dendrodasys rubomarinus; Macrodasyidae (5) - Macrodasys imbricatus; Macrodasys macrurus; Macrodasys nigrocellus; Macrodasys scleracrus; Urodasys toxostylus; Thaumastodermatidae (4) - Tetranchyroderma corallium; Tetranchyroderma rhopalotum; Tetranchyroderma sinaiensis; Tetranchyroderma xenodactylum; Turbanellidae (2) - Paraturbanella levantia; Turbanella erythrothalassia - spp. n.
["Cyprus"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine and environmental studies"]

New species of Asphalidesmus Silvestri, 1910 from Australia (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Dalodesmidea)
Asphalidesmus allynensis sp. n. and A. dorrigensis sp. n. are described from New South Wales, A. otwayensis sp. n. from Victoria, and A. bellendenkerensis sp. n., A. carbinensis sp. n., A. magnus sp. n. and A. minor sp. n. from Queensland. The previously endemic Tasmanian genus Asphalidesmus Silvestri, 1910 is now known from 16°S to 43°S in eastern Australia, a north-south range of ca 3000 km. Asphalidesmus spp. throughout this range are very similar in overall appearance. Three of the new species are able to coil in a tight spiral.
["millipede"]

First record of the myrmicine ant genus Carebara Westwood, 1840 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from Saudi Arabia with description of a new species, C. abuhurayri sp. n.
The myrmicine ant genus Carebara is recorded for the first time in Saudi Arabia from the Arabian Peninsula as a whole. A new species Carebara abuhurayri sp. n. is described based on workers collected from Al Bahah region. One of the smallest ant species known to occur in Arabia, C. abuhurayri is found in an area inhabited by many ant species including Tetramorium sericeiventre Emery, 1877, Pheidole minuscula Bernard, 1952, Pheidole sp., Monomorium destructor (Jerdon, 1851), Monomorium exiguum (Forel, 1894) and Monomorium sp. and Crematogaster sp.
["Ant fauna"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Nomenclatorial changes and redescriptions of three of Navás’ Leucochrysa (Nodita) species (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Three species that Navás described – Leucochrysa (Nodita) azevedoi Navás, 1913, Leucochrysa (Nodita) camposi (Navás, 1933) and Leucochrysa (Nodita) morenoi (Navás, 1934) – have received recent taxonomic attention. All three have many similar external features; indeed Navás himself, as well as subsequent authors, have confused the species with each other. Here, (a) misidentifications are corrected; (b) a neotype of L. azevedoi is designated; (c) L. (N.) morenoi, previously synonymized with L. (N.) camposi, is recognized as a valid species [Reinstated status] All three species are redescribed and illustrated, with special emphasis on the types. Leucochrysa (N.) azevedoi was found to be relatively common in agricultural areas along Brazil’s Atlantic coast. The two other species are known only from their type localities: Leucochrysa (N.) camposi – coastal Ecuador, and Leucochrysa (N.) morenoi – Quito, Ecuador.
["Leucochrysini"]
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

New earthworm species of the genus Amynthas Kinberg, 1867 from Thailand (Clitellata: Megascolecidae)
Four new species of terrestrial earthworms from the zebrus-group in the genus Amynthas Kinberg, 1867, are described from Nan province, north Thailand: Amynthas phatubensis sp. n., from Tham Pha Tub Arboretum, Amynthas tontong sp. n., from Tontong Waterfall, Amynthas borealis sp. n., from Chaloemprakiat district, and Amynthas srinan sp. n., from Srinan National Park.After comparing with the two closely related Laos species Amynthas chandyi Hong, 2008 and Amynthas namphouinensis Hong, 2008, the four new species show clear morphological differences, and also it is confirmed that there are no previous records of the species described here. Amynthas phatubensis sp. n. is the largest (longest) sized of these earthworms and is the only species that lives in limestone habitats. The genital characters are different among them and also from the two Laotian species. Molecular systematics would be a good method for further analysis of the diversity and species boundaries in SE Asian Amynthas.
["Amynthas"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Leech Biology and Applications", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A review of the millipede genus Sinocallipus Zhang, 1993 (Diplopoda: Callipodida: Sinocallipodidae), with notes on gonopods monotony vs. peripheral diversity in millipedes
The millipede genus Sinocallipus is reviewed, with four new cave-dwelling species, Sinocallipus catba, Sinocallipus deharvengi, Sinocallipus jaegeri and Sinocallipus steineri, being described from caves in Laos and Vietnam. With the new records the number of species in the genus reaches six and the genus range is extended to Central Vietnam and North and Central Laos. Both, Sinocallipus jaegeri from Khammouan Province in Laos and Sinocallipus simplipodicus Zhang, 1993 from Yunnan, China, show high level of reduction of eyes, which has not been recorded in other Callipodida. Peripheral characters such as the relative lengths of antennomeres, the number of ocelli, the number of pleurotergites or even the shape of paraprocts and the coloration seem to provide more information for the distinction of the species than do the relatively uniform gonopods. The differences in gonopods mainly concern the shape and length of cannula, the length and shape of coxal processes g and k, and the number of the acicular projections of the femoroid. An explanation is offered for the function of the trochanteral lobe of 9th leg-pair. It provides mechanical support for the cannula and seems to assist sperm charge and insemination during copulation. An identification key to the species in the genus is produced to accommodate the new species. The new species descriptions were automatically exported at the time of publication to a wiki (www.species-id.net) through a specially designed software tool, the Pensoft Wiki Convertor (PWC), implemented here for the first time together with a newly proposed citation mechanism for simultaneous journal/wiki publications.
["Sinocallipus"]

A new species of Simulium (Nevermannia) (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Chiang Mai, Thailand
Simulium (Nevermannia) maeaiense sp. n. is described on the basis of female, male, pupal and larval specimens collected from Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. This species is assigned to the feuerborni species-group of the subgenus Simulium (Nevermannia), and is distinctive among this species-group inthe female cibarium furnished with numerous dark minute conical processes on the lower part, the female genital fork with a strongly sclerotized horizontal bar on each arm, and six long pupal gill filaments arising nearly at the same level from the common basal stalk and lying in a horizontal plane. These characteristics separate this new species from all the known species of the feuerborni species-group. Identification keys to seven species (six known plus one new) of the feuerborni species-group reported from Thailand are provided for females, males, pupae and mature larvae.
["Simulium"]
["Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology"]

First record of the adventive oriental aphid Schizaphis piricola (Matsumura, 1917) (Hemiptera, Aphididae) in Europe
The oriental aphid Schizaphis piricola Matsumura, is recorded for the first time in Europe, on the ornamental pear tree Pyrus calleryana in landscaped areas in Madrid (Spain). Data on the morphology of the primary host (apterous and alate fundatrigeniae and fundatrices), and their biology and distribution are given. The keys for identifying species of Schizaphis (Schizaphis) in the Iberian Peninsula are updated. Two species of aphids are also recorded for the first time on Pyrus calleryana: S. piricola and Aphis pomi.
["Schizaphis piricola"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Stylobates birtlesi sp. n., a new species of carcinoecium-forming sea anemone (Cnidaria, Actiniaria, Actiniidae) from eastern Australia
We describe a new species of carcinoecium-forming sea anemone, Stylobates birtlesi sp. n., from sites 680-960 m deep in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia. An anemone of this genus settles on a gastropod shell inhabited by a hermit crab, then covers and extends the shell to produce a chitinous structure termed a carcinoecium. Stylobates birtlesi sp. n. is symbiotic with the hermit crab Sympagurus trispinosus (Balss, 1911). The nature of marginal sphincter muscle and nematocyst size and distribution distinguish Stylobates birtlesi sp. n. from other species in the genus. The four known species are allopatric, each inhabiting a separate ocean basin of the Indo-west Pacific. We also extend the known range of Stylobates loisetteae in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Western Australia.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Mites of the genus Neharpyrhynchus Fain (Acariformes, Harpirhynchidae) from Neotropical birds
Three new species of parasitic mites of the genus Neharpyrhynchus Fain (Acariformes, Harpirhynchidae) are described from Neotropical birds, N. chlorospingus sp. n. from Chlorospingus pileatus (Passeriformes, Emberizidae) from Costa Rica, N. mironovi sp. n. from Dacnys cayana (Passeriformes, Thraupidae) and N. tangara sp. n. from Tangara cayana (Thraupidae) both from Brazil. Neharpyrhynchus trochilinus (Fain) is recorded from 3 new hosts of the family Trochilidae (Apodiformes), Panterpe insignis and Eugenes fulgens from Costa Rica, and Amazilia lactea from Brazil. Emended diagnosis of the genus and a key to species are provided; all records of Neharpyrhynchus species are summarized.
["Acariformes"]
["Bird parasitology and diseases", "Study of Mite Species", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Two new species of Urothoe (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Gammaridea) From The East Johor Islands Archipelago, Malaysia
Two new species of urothoid amphipods from Pulau Sibu and Pulau Tinggi, Johor are described and illustrated. The specimens of Urothoe sibuensis new species were collected by vertical haul plankton net and is distinctively different from other existing Urothoe species by these combination of special characters; similar gnathopods 1–2 with short and stout propodus expanded into poorly defined palms; large eyes and epimeron 3 smooth. Urothoe tinggiensis new species as collected using an airlift suction sampler at seagrass area is characterized by its different gnathopodal configuration with setose dactylus of 5th pereopod; eyes minute; carpus is wider than merus in the 5th pereopod; subquadrate coxa 4; merus and carpus of pereopods 6–7 are linear.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Tanaidaceans (Crustacea) from the Central Pacific Manganese Nodule Province. I. The genera
Collettea, Robustochelia and Tumidochelia
Three new species of are described from the manganese nodule province between the Clarion and the Clipperton Fracture Zone of the equatorial North Pacific Ocean, and collected during the Nodinaut expedition on board the r/v l´Atalante in the summer of 2004. The new species belongs to three genera as: Collettea (C. longisetosa), Robustochelia (R. pacifica), and Tumidochelia (T. tuberculata). A key to the genus Tumidochelia is presented and the validity of the genera Robustochelia and Collettea is discussed.
["Tanaidacea"]

A new species of the rare chrysidid subfamily Loboscelidiinae from China: the third species of Rhadinoscelidia Kimsey, 1988 (Hymenoptera, Chrysididae)
Rhadinoscelidia delta Liu, Yao & Xu, sp. n. (Chrysididae, Loboscelidiinae) is described and illustrated based on two female specimens from Hainan province. It represents the first record of the genus Rhadinoscelidia Kimsey, 1988 for China. A key to the world species of this genus is given. All specimens are preserved in the Hymenopteran Collection, South China Agricultural University (SCAU).
["Aculeata"]

A new species of Longitarsus Latreille, 1829 (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae, Galerucinae) pupating inside stem aerenchyma of the hydrophyte host from the Oriental Region
A new species of subaquatic Longitarsus pupating inside the stem aerenchyma of its hydrophyte host plant is described. Eggs are laid on tender leaves and buds and the larvae are open feeders. This is the first report of an Oriental flea beetle pupating inside the stem of its hydrophyte host. A key to the species of southern Indian Longitarsus is provided.
["Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A New Species of Dialictus from Sombrero Island, Anguilla (Hymenoptera, Halictidae)
A new species of Lasioglossum Curtis subgenus Dialictus Robertson (Halictinae, Halictini) is described and figured from a series of female and males collected on Sombrero Island, Anguilla; the northernmost island of the Lesser Antilles. Lasioglossum (Dialictus) sombrerense sp. n. is distinguished from its congeners and the name made available for a forthcoming work on the arthropod diversity of Sombrero Island.
["Anguilla"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Jacobyana Maulik, an Indo-Malayan flea beetle genus new for the Afrotropical region with description of three new species from Central and Southern Africa (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae, Alticinae)
In the present paper, the Indo-Malayan flea beetle genus Jacobyana Maulik, 1926 including 7 species from India, Nepal, Vietnam and Sri Lanka, is for the first time reported with three new species, J. bedzeki sp. n., J. centrafricana sp. n., and J. sudafricana sp. n., in the Afrotropical region. Micrographs of male and female genitalia, scanning electron micrographs of some diagnostic morphological characters, a key to identification and distributional data for the new species, are supplied. Finally, morphological characters of a single female from Namibia, probably to attribute to a possible further new species of Jacobyana, are also discussed.

On the Austral-Antarctic stenothoids Proboloides, Metopoides, Torometopa and Scaphodactylus (Crustacea Amphipoda) Part 2: the genus Proboloides, with description of two new genera and the transfer of two nominal species to Metopoides
This is the second part of a revision of the most plesiomorphic genera in the amphipod family Stenothoidae sensu lato (see Krapp-Schickel and Koenemann 2006 for an overview and Krapp-Schickel 2008 for the first part). 41 species not belonging to Metopoides were plotted in a matrix using the same 61 characters as in the first part. The resulting group of Proboloides species (most probably not existing in the Austral-Antarctic region) is discussed, a key for the members given and two new genera erected. Some species described as Proboloides are redescribed and 2 species transferred to Metopoides. A key for all actual members of Proboloides and a revised key for Metopoides is added. The remaining species, i.e. those actually being in the genera Torometopa and Scaphodactylus, will be dealt with in the final part of this series, together with a key to all of them.
["Stenothoidae sensu lato"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Mollusks and Parasites Studies"]

A new species of Atractides Koch, 1837 (Acari: Hydrachnidia, Hygrobatidae) from Ethiopia, with a discussion on the biodiversity of the genus Atractides in the Afrotropical region
A new species of Atractides Koch, 1837 (Acari, Hydrachnidia) is described from Ethiopia. The world number of Atractides now tallies 297 species. The diversity of the genus Atractides in the Afrotropical region is briefly discussed.
["Water mites"]

New records of Caribbomerus from Hispaniola with redescription of C. elongatus (Fisher) and a key to the genus in the West Indies (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae, Graciliini)
Three species of Caribbomerus Vitali are newly recorded for the Dominican Republic: C. decoratus (Zayas), C. elongatus (Fisher), and C. asperatus (Fisher). The first two also represent first records for Hispaniola. Caribbomerus elongatus (Fisher) is redescribed based on additional material, including the first known males. A key to the species of the genus from the West Indies is provided.
["Dominican Republic"]

Euastacus morgani sp. n., a new spiny crayfish (Crustacea, Decapoda, Parastacidae) from the highland rainforests of eastern New South Wales, Australia
Euastacus morgani sp. n., is described from a highland, rainforest site in Bindarri National Park, in eastern New South Wales, Australia. Euastacus morgani is found living sympatrically with two more common species, E. dangadi Morgan, 1997 and E. neohirsutus Riek, 1956. Systematically, the species belongs in the ‘simplex’ complex of the genus that includes E. simplex Riek, 1956, E. clarkae Morgan, 1997, E. maccai McCormack and Coughran 2008 and E. morgani. This new species differs from its nearest congenor, E. simplex, inthree mesial carpal spines. A key to the ‘simplex’ complex is presented.
["Euastacus"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and fisheries research", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

The genus Hygrocrates Deeleman-Reinhold, 1988 (Aranei, Dysderidae) in Turkey
A new species, Hygrocrates deelemanae sp. n., is described from the Mediterranean region of Turkey. Detailed morphological descriptions, diagnosis and figures of the copulatory organs of both sexes are presented. In addition, an identification key is presented for all currently known species of Hygrocrates.
["Dysderidae"]

Review of the Palaearctic members of the Lispe tentaculata species-group (Diptera, Muscidae): revised key, synonymy and notes on ecology
The taxonomic reasons for regarding L. draperi Séguy, 1933, sp. rev., as a valid species instead of a synonym of L. tentaculata (De Geer, 1776) and for treating L. quaerens Villeneuve, 1936, syn. n., as a junior synonym of L. sericipalpis Stein, 1904 are given. A revised key for the Palaearctic members of the Lispe tentaculata species-group is given. Data on ecology, distribution and feeding preferences are provided.
["Lispe tentaculata"]

Revision of the South American window fly genus Heteromphrale Kröber, 1937 (Diptera, Scenopinidae)
The Neotropical window fly genus Heteromphrale Krober, 1937 is revised. Two previously described species (H. chilensis (Krober, 1937) and H. cyanops (Edwards, 1932)) are redescribed while a new species (H. blanca sp. n.) is described from Argentina. The male of H. chilensis and female of H. cyanops are described and figured for the first time, and a key to species is presented.
["Heteromphrale"]

A new genus of soft coral of the family Alcyoniidae (Cnidaria, Octocorallia) with re-description of a new combination and description of a new species
A new genus, Aldersladum (family Alcyoniidae), is established to accommodate a previously described species, Efflatounaria sodwanae Benayahu, 1993 (family Xeniidae) from Sodwana Bay, South Africa that was wrongly assigned to the latter genus. This species is redescribed and a second new species, A. jengi from Penghu Is., Taiwan, is described. The diagnostic features of the new genus include the presence of only figure-eight shaped platelets in all parts of the colony, thus differentiating it from all known genera of the Alcyoniidae. Based on examination of additional material from other localities, the zoogeographical distribution of the genus is confirmed to include the coral reefs of South Africa, Kenya, Gulf of Oman, Taiwan and Japan. Phylogenetic analyses of two mitochondrial genes strongly support its placement in the family Alcyoniidae.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity"]

Taxonomy and biology of two seed-parasitic gracillariid moths (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae), with description of one new species
A new species and a new record species of the gracillariid moths from China are reported: Conopomorpha flueggella Li, sp. n. and Epicephala relictella Kuznetzov, 1979. The specimens were collected on flowers or fruits as well as leaves of Flueggea suffruticosa (Pall.) Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) at night, and reared from fruits in captivity. Larvae of both species feed on the seeds of F. suffruticosa. Morphology of the eggs, larvae, pupae, and the life history are described. Images of the life history and figures of the genital structures are provided.

A new species of Lithobius (Monotarsobius) Verhoeff, 1905 (Lithobiomorpha, Lithobiidae) from China
The present paper deals with a new species of the genus Lithobius Leach, 1814, L. (Monotarsobius) songi sp. n. (Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae) recently discovered in Hebei Province, China. Morphologically it resembles L. (M.) holstii (Pocock, 1895) from China and Japan but could be well distinguished from latter bya Tömösváry’s organ slightly smaller than the adjoining ocelli, different leg plectrotaxy and tridentate claw of female gonopods. A key to the Chinese Lithobius (Monotarsobius) species is presented.
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Coulmannia rossensis sp. n. (Isopoda, Asellota, Paramunnidae) from the Ross Sea, Southern Ocean
A new species of Coulmannia, C. rossensis, is described from the Ross Sea, Antarctica. It is most similar to C. ramosae Castelló, 2004, but can easily be distinguished from this species by the males yielding a pair of granulate humps on the dorsum of the pereonites 1–6 and a single granulate hump on the pereonite 7 and the free pleonite. Coulmannia rossensis sp. n. is sexually dimorphic. The dorsal sculpture of the female bodies yield a single granulate hump on all the pereonites and free pleonite. The species of the genus Coulmannia are restricted to the Southern Ocean, and C. rossensis sp. n. is the fourth species included in it.
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and fisheries research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

A synopsis of East-Mediterranean Synaphris Simon, 1894 (Araneae, Synaphridae) with a description of a new species from Israel
Three species of Synaphris occurring in the East Mediterranean – S. orientalis Marusik & Lehtinen, 2003, S. lehtineni Marusik, Gnelitsa & Kovblyuk, 2005 and S. letourneuxi (Simon, 1884) – are surveyed; and a new species – S. wunderlichi sp. n. – is described from southern Israel on the basis of males. The new species differs from other East- Mediterranean congeners by its smaller size, a smaller lamella with fewer ridges, and a thick palpal femur. Comparative figures are provided for all species from the East Mediterranean.

The scorpions of Yunnan (China): updated identification key, new record, and distributions (Arachnida: Scorpiones)
This is an identification key to the Scorpiones species of Yunnan (China) with notes on the distribution and habitats of these species. E. kubani is one new record species to China. The number of known species of Scorpiones from Yunnan is raised to nine. The redescriptions of E. shidian and E. kubani are provided. Features and distribution of these species provided as additional information for identification.
["Buthidae"]
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

A new Gephyromantis (Phylacomantis) frog species from the pinnacle karst of Bemaraha, western Madagascar
We describe a new mantellid frog of the subfamily Mantellinae from the karstic Bemaraha Plateau, western Madagascar. The new species belongs to the genus Gephyromantis, subgenus Phylacomantis, which previously included G. azzurrae, G. corvus and G. pseudoasper. Gephyromantis atsingy sp. n. has a snout-vent length of 35–43 mm and is a scansorial frog living among the Tsingy de Bemaraha pinnacles and inside the caves present in the area. A morphological analysis and biomolecular comparison revealed the degree of differentiation between these four species of the Phylacomantis subgenus. The new species seems to be endemic to Tsingy de Bemaraha.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Review of the genus Fibuloides Kuznetsov (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Olethreutinae) in China
The genus Fibuloides Kuznetsov is reviewed in China. Fibuloides trapezoidea sp. n. is described as new, F. levatana and F. modificana are newly recorded for China, Acroclita nigrovenana Kuznetsov syn. n. is considered as a synonym of F. corinthia (Meyrick), and Eucoenogenes elongata and E. wuyiensis are transferred to Fibuloides. A key to the Chinese species of Fibuloides is given.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

The first Strigocis Dury (Coleoptera, Ciidae) from the southern Neotropical region and a provisional key to world species
Strigocis vicosensis Lopes-Andrade sp. n. is described based on specimens from a single locality (type locality: Viçosa, state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil), being the southernmost record of a Strigocis Dury species. Diagnostic to this new species are the dorsal vestiture consisting of stout yellowish bristles, pronotal punctures separated from each other by at least 0.75× puncture-width and sutural flange of elytra not diverging near apex. Males have both frontoclypeal ridge and anterior pronotal margin produced forward and emarginated at middle forming two small subtriangular plates, and a small abdominal sex patch. Among the New World Strigocis, it most resembles S. bilimeki (Reitter), of which images of male terminalia, as far as ventral and dorsal SEM images of males are also provided. The morphological limits of Strigocis are briefly discussed and redefined, and a provisional key to the world species is provided.
["Minute tree-fungus beetles"]

Volatile compounds released by disturbed and undisturbed adults of Anchomenus dorsalis (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Platynini) and structure of the pygidial gland
Volatile compounds produced by adults of Anchomenus dorsalis under undisturbed and disturbed conditions were investigated with an all-glass aeration apparatus. GC-MS analysis of the crude extracts from undisturbed and disturbed adults highlighted four major volatile compounds, undecane, heneicosane, Z-9 tricosene and tricosane, of which significantly more undecane was released by disturbed adults compared to undisturbed beetles. The pygidial glands of adults of A. dorsalis were investigated using light and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Each gland showed dense aggregates of secretory cells organized into visually distinct lobes; a long collecting canal that drains the secretion towards the reservoir, a bean-shaped double lobed muscular reservoir in which secretion is stored and a short duct (efferent duct) through which the secretion is discharged. The function of the pygidial glands and the possible role played by undecane as a defensive allomone and/or chemical signalling molecule are discussed.
["undecane"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Neurobiology and Insect Physiology Research", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

Revision of the Malagasy genus Trichoteleia Kieffer (Hymenoptera, Platygastroidea, Platygastridae)
The species of the genus Trichoteleia Kieffer (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) are revised: 42 species are recognized, of which two were previously named and are redescribed: T. afo Talamas, sp. n., T. albidipes Kieffer, T. bicolor Talamas, sp. n.; T. bidentata Talamas sp. n.; T. carinata Talamas, sp. n.; T. cincta Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. delilah Talamas, sp. n.; T. eburata Talamas, sp. n.; T. echinata Talamas, sp. n.; T. fisheri Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. funesta Talamas, sp. n.; T. halterata Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. hemlyae Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. irwini Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. janus Talamas, sp. n.; T. jiro Talamas, sp. n.; T. ketrona Talamas, sp. n.; T. levii Talamas & Johnson, sp. n.; T. longiventris Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. minima Talamas, sp. n.; T. nify Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. oculea Talamas, sp. n.; T. orona Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. parvipennis Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. pauliani (Risbec); T. picturata Talamas, sp. n.; T. prima Talamas, sp. n.; T. prolixa Talamas, sp. n.; T. quazii Talamas, sp. n.; T. ravaka Talamas, sp. n.; T. rugifrons Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. solocis Talamas, sp. n.; T. sphaerica Talamas, sp. n.; T. subtilis Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. tahotra Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. takariva Talamas, sp. n.; T. tezitra Talamas, sp. n.; T. tigris Talamas, sp. n.; T. tonsa Talamas, sp. n.; T. warreni Talamas & Masner, sp. n.; T. xantrox Talamas, sp. n.; T. zuparkoi Talamas & Masner, sp. n. A neotype is designated for Trichoteleia albidipes and a lectotype is designated for T. pauliani.
["Platygastridae"]

Seven new species within western Atlantic Starksia atlantica, S. lepicoelia, and S. sluiteri (Teleostei, Labrisomidae), with comments on congruence of DNA barcodes and species
Specimens of Starksia were collected throughout the western Atlantic, and a 650-bp portion of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase-c subunit I (COl) was sequenced as part of a re-analysis of species diversity of western Central Atlantic shorefishes. A neighbor-joining tree constructed from the sequence data suggests the existence of several cryptic species. Voucher specimens from each genetically distinct lineage and color photographs of vouchers taken prior to dissection and preservation were examined for diagnostic morphological characters. The results suggest that S. atlantica, S. lepicoelia, and S. sluiteri are species complexes, and each comprises three or more species. Seven new species are described. DNA data usually support morphological features, but some incongruence between genetic and morphological data exists. Genetic lineages are only recognized as species if supported by morphology. Genetic lineages within western Atlantic Starksia generally correspond to geography, such that members of each species complex have a very restricted geographical distribution. Increasing geographical coverage of sampling locations will almost certainly increase the number of Starksia species and species complexes recognized in the western Atlantic. Combining molecular and morphological investigations is bringing clarity to the taxonomy of many genera of morphologically similar fishes and increasing the number of currently recognized species. Future phylogenetic studies should help resolve species relationships and shed light on patterns of speciation in western Atlantic Starksia.
["Starksia"]
["Identification and Quantification in Food", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

A simultaneous journal / wiki publication and dissemination of a new species description: Neobidessodes darwiniensis sp. n. from northern Australia (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Bidessini)
Here, we describe a new Australian species in journal format and simultaneously open the description in a wiki format on the www.species-id.net. The wiki format will always link to the fixed original journal description of the taxon, however it permits future edits and additions to species'  taxonomy and biology. The diving beetle Neobidessodes darwiniensis sp. n. (Coleoptera, Dytiscidae, Bidessini) is described based on a single female, collected in a rest pool of the Harriet Creek in the Darwin Area, Northern Territory. Within Neobidessodes the new species is well characterized by its elongate oval body with rounded sides, short and stout segments of antennae, length of body and dorsal surface coloration. In addition to external morphology, we used mitochondrial cox1 sequence data to support generic assignment and to delineate the new species from other Australian Bidessini including all other known Neobidessodes. Illustrations based on digital images are provided here and as online resources. A modified key is provided. Altogether ten species of the genus are now known worldwide, nine from Australia and one from New Guinea.
["Wiki"]
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies"]

A survey of East Palaearctic Lycosidae (Araneae). 7. A new species of Acantholycosa Dahl, 1908 from the Russian Far East
Acantholycosa azarkinae sp. n. is described from the Maritime Province of Russia on the basis of both sexes. A. norvegica (Thorell, 1872) is reported from the Maritime Province for the first time. A key and illustrations to all six species that occur in Far East Asia are provided.
["spiders"]

On the identity of the fossil hydrophilid beetles from the Tertiary localities in the southern part of the Upper Rhine Graben (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae, Dytiscidae)
This study focuses on the beetles from the Oligocene localities in the southern part of the Upper Rhine Graben (Brunstatt: France, Alsace; and Kleinkems: Germany, Baden-Württemberg) assigned to the family Hydrophilidae by previous authors. The identity of Escheria convexa Förster, 1891 is fixed by the designation of its neotype, the species is redescribed, illustrated and transferred from the hydrophilid genus Hydrobius Leach, 1815 to the genus Copelatus Erichson, 1832 (Coleoptera: Adephaga: Dytiscidae) and compared with other fossil representatives of Copelatus. The identity of the remaining three species is briefly evaluated on the basis of the original descriptions and illustrations only, because their types were lost or destroyed during World War II; all three species are removed from the fossil record of the Hydrophiloidea and placed into Polyphaga incertae sedis. The geology and stratigraphy of both fossil outcrops is discussed briefly.
["Hydrophilidae"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Ecology and biodiversity studies"]

Review of the genus Merulempista Roesler, 1967 (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae) from China, with description of two new species
The genus Merulempista Roesler, 1967 is reviewed for China. Of the four species treated in this paper, Merulempista rubriptera Li & Ren, sp. n. and M. digitata Li & Ren, sp. n. are described as new; M. cyclogramma (Hampson, 1896) is newly recorded for China, and its taxonomic position is briefly discussed. Photographs of the adults and genitalia are provided, along with a key to the known Chinese species.

Review of the genus Isodemis Diakonoff (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) from China, with description of three new species
The genus Isodemis Diakonoff, 1952 in China is reviewed, with seven species recognized. Three new species are described: I. quadrata sp. n., I. guangxiensis sp. n. and I. hainanensis sp. n. The female of I. stenotera Diakonoff, 1983 is described for the first time. Variation within I. illiberalis (Meyrick, 1918) and I. stenotera is briefly discussed. Images of the adults and genitalia are provided, along with a key to the described species.

Review of the European Greenomyia Brunetti (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) with new descriptions of females
The females of the four continental Greenomyia Brunetti species in Europe are associated with the males, diagnosed and keyed, providing the first association and description of the females of G. baikalica Zaitzev, 1994 and G. stackelbergi Zaitzev, 1982. Colour photographs of their habitus and line drawings of their female terminalia are provided. Greenomyia mongolica Laštovka & Matile, 1974 is found to be a senior synonym of Greenomyia theresae Matile, 2002. syn. n. The diagnostic characters used to distinguish between Greenomyia and Neoclastobasis Ostroverkhova in keys did not hold up to a closer scrutiny and leave the status of Neoclastobasis as separate genus questionable.
["Mycetophilidae"]

Redescription of Marstonia comalensis (Pilsbry & Ferriss, 1906), a poorly known and possibly threatened freshwater gastropod from the Edwards Plateau region (Texas)
Marstonia comalensis, a poorly known nymphophiline gastropod (originally described from Comal Creek, Texas) that has often been confused with Cincinnatia integra, is re-described and the generic placement of this species, which was recently allocated to Marstonia based on unpublished evidence, is confirmed by anatomical study. Marstonia comalensis is a large congeneran ovate-conic, openly umbilicate shell and penisa short filament and oblique, squarish lobe bearing a narrow gland along its distal edge. It is well differentiated morphologically from congenerssimilar shells and penes and is also genetically divergent relative to those congeners that have been sequenced (mtCOI divergence 3.0–8.5%). A Bayesian analysis of a small COI dataset resolved M. comalensis in a poorly supported sub-clade together with M. hershleri, M. lustrica and M. pachyta. The predominantly new records presented herein indicate that M. comalensis was historically distributed in the upper portions of the Brazos, Colorado, Guadalupe and Nueces River basins, south-central Texas. The species has been live collected at only 12 localities and only two of these have been re-visited since 1993. These data suggest that the conservation status of this snail, which has a critically imperiled (G1) NatureServe ranking and was recently proposed for federal listing, needs to be re-assessed.
["Marstonia"]

Twenty-four new species of Polycentropus (Trichoptera, Polycentropodidae) from Brazil
Twenty-four new species of the caddisfly genus Polycentropus (Insecta: Trichoptera: Polycentropodidae) occurring in Brazil are diagnosed, described, and the male genitalia of each are illustrated. Eighteen of the new species are placed in the Polycentropus jorgenseni species complex of the Polycentropus gertschi group of New World Polycentropus sensu lato. Furthermore, 6 new species within the P. gertschi group (P. ancistrus, sp. n., P. boraceia, sp. n., P. carioca, sp. n., P. froehlichi, sp. n., P. galharada, sp. n., and P. graciosa, sp. n.) are placed in an informal diagnostic cluster of species with P. urubici Holzenthal and Almeida. Ten of the other P. gertschi group species form a second cluster of diagnostically similar species, the Polycentropus soniae cluster (P. caaete, sp. n., P. carolae, sp. n., P. cheliceratus, sp. n., P. fluminensis, sp. n., P. itatiaia, sp. n., P. minero, sp. n., P. santateresae, sp. n., P. soniae, sp. n., P. tripui, sp. n., and P. virginiae, sp. n.). Two of the remaining 8 new species are included in the P. jorgenseni species complex (P. cipoensis, sp. n. and P. verruculus, sp. n.), while the remaining 6 are unique and cannot be placed in one of the groups at this time (P. acinaciformis, sp. n., P. amphirhamphus, sp. n., P. cachoeira, sp. n., P. inusitatus, sp. n., P. paprockii, sp. n. and P. rosalysae, sp. n.).
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Description of two new Lophocampa Harris from the Dominican Republic (Arctiidae, Arctiinae)
Two new species of Lophocampa Harris are described from the Dominican Republic, Lophocampa lineata sp. n. based on two males, and Lophocampa albitegula sp. n. based on three females. The habitus and genitalia are illustrated. The following nomenclatural changes are also proposed: Lophocampa albiguttata Boisduval, 1870 stat. rev. and Lophocampa brunnea Vincent nom. n.
["Phaegopterini"]

Contributions to the faunistics and bionomics of Staphylinidae (Coleoptera) in northeastern North America: discoveries made through study of the University of Guelph Insect Collection, Ontario, Canada.
Staphylinidae (Rove Beetles) from northeastern North America deposited in the University of Guelph Insect Collection (Ontario, Canada) were curated from 2008-2010 by the first author. The identification of this material has resulted in the recognition of thirty-five new provincial or state records, six new Canadian records, one record for the United States and two new records for eastern Canada. All records are for subfamilies other than Aleocharinae and Pselaphinae, which will be treated in future publications as collaborative projects. Range expansions of ten exotic species to additional provinces and states are reported. The known distributions of each species in northeastern North America are summarized as maps and those species with a distinctive habitus are illustrated with color photographs. Genitalia and/or secondary sexual characters are illustrated for those species currently only identifiable on the basis of dissected males. The majority of the new records are in groups that have been recently revised, demonstrating the importance of curation and local insect surveys to the understanding of biodiversity, even for taxa and areas considered ‘relatively well-known’.
["rove beetles"]

A new species of Amblyodus Westwood, 1878 (Coleoptera, Melolonthidae, Dynastinae) from South America
A second species of Amblyodus Westwood, 1878, A. castroi sp. n., is described from the northern South America based on 12 specimens from Brazil and Peru (Amazonian subregion). The new species is here compared with the type species of the genus, A. taurus Westwood, 1878 and both species and their male genitalia are illustrated. Diagnostic characters for the genus are discussed, especially the metatibial teeth. A distribution map including the type species and the new species is provided. The genus Amblyodus is recorded for the first time from Peru and from Brazil states of Pará and Rondônia.
["Amazonian subregion"]

Chordodes mizoramensis (Nematomorpha, Gordiida), a new species of horsehair worm from Mizoram, North-East India
Chordodes mizoramensis, a new species of freshwater gordiid horsehair worm, is described from Mizoram, NE India on the basis of scanning electron microscopic and morphometric studies. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners in that the apical filaments of the crowned areoles are branched several times, a pattern that has not been observed in other species. An additional distinguishing character is that it has more bulging areoles, which are distributed among simple areoles alone or in groups, do not form clear patterns.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Zoogeography, taxonomy, and conservation of West Virginia’s Ohio River floodplain crayfishes (Decapoda, Cambaridae)
The crayfish fauna of West Virginia consists of 23 species and several undescribed taxa. Most survey efforts documenting this fauna have been conducted in lotic waterways throughout the Appalachian plateau, Allegheny Mountains, and Ridge and Valley physiographic provinces. Bottomland forests, swamps, and marshes associated with large river floodplain such as the Ohio River floodplain historically have been under-surveyed in the state. These habitats harbor the richest primary burrowing crayfish fauna in West Virginia, and are worth of survey efforts. In an effort to fill this void, the crayfish fauna of West Virginia’s Ohio River floodplain was surveyed from 2004 through 2009. From this survey, nine species from four genera were documented inhabiting the floodplain. Zoogeography, biology, and conservation status is provided for all nine crayfi shes. The dominant genus along the floodplain is Cambarus, which includes Cambarus (C.) carinirostris, Cambarus (C.) b. cavatus, Cambarus (P.) robustus and Cambarus (T.) thomai. Cambarus (T.) thomai is the most prevalent burrowing species occurring along the floodplain. The genus Orconectes consists of two native species, Orconectes (C.) obscurus and Orconectes (C.) s. sanbornii; and two invasive taxa, Orconectes (G.) virilis and Orconectes (P.) rusticus. Orconectes (C.) obscurus has experienced a range extension to the south and occupies streams formerly occupied by O. (C.) s. sanbornii. Both invasive taxa were allied with anthropogenic habitats and disturbance gradients. Th e genera Fallicambarus and Procambarus are represented by a single species. Both Fallicambarus (C.) fodiens, and Procambarus (O.) acutus are limited to the historic preglacial Marietta River Valley.
["Crayfishes"]
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Taxonomic revision of Ectyphus Gerstaecker, 1868 and Parectyphus Hesse, 1972 with a key to world Ectyphinae (Insecta, Diptera, Mydidae).
The Afrotropical Mydidae genera Ectyphus Gerstaecker, 1868 and Parectyphus Hesse, 1972 are revised. Six species of Ectyphus are recognised (E. abdominalis Bezzi, 1924, E. armipes Bezzi, 1924, E. capillatus Hesse, 1969, E. pinguis Gerstaecker, 1868, and E. pretoriensis Bezzi, 1924), of which one is newly described from Kenya, E. amboseli sp. n. Two species, E. bitaeniatus Hesse, 1969 and E. flavidorsalis Hesse, 1969, are newly synonymised with E. pinguis. The monotypic genus Parectyphus Hesse, 1972 and the male of its type species P. namibiensis Hesse, 1972 are re-described while the female is described for the first time. Comments on the distribution of all species within biodiversity hotspots are given. A dichotomous identification key to the genera and species of world Ectyphinae is provided and illustrated keys to the world Ectyphinae are made available online in both dichotomous and multi-access, matrix-based formats.
["Mydidae"]

Generic switch-over during ontogenesis in Dimorphacanthella gen. n. (Collembola, Isotomidae) with barcoding evidence
A new genus Dimorphacanthella is established for Tetracanthella anommatos Chen and Yin, 1984 and Dimorphacanthella mediaseta sp. n. from China. The new genus exhibits an unusual metamorphosis: small juveniles, previously called Uzelia anommatos Yue & Yin, 1999 get the second pair of anal spines resulted from moulting and become “Tetracanthella”. Species identity of forms with two and four anal spines is proved by barcoding analysis. The derivation of anal spines is compared among generafour anal spines.
["Anal spines"]

A new species of Heser (Araneae, Gnaphosidae) from the south of India
A new species of Heser Tuneva, 2005 (Gnaphosidae) is described from the south of India. A key is provided to the species of Heser and the importance of Gnaphosidae for the study of world spider biodiversity is briefly discussed.

Revision of the endemic Taiwanese millipede genus Aponedyopus Verhoeff, 1939, with descriptions of two new species (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
The millipede genus Aponedyopus is endemic to Taiwan and contains three species. All previously known congeners are considered to represent one species: A. montanus Verhoeff, 1939 (the type species), including A. reesi (Wang, 1957) and A. maculatus Takakuwa, 1942, syn. n. Two further species are described as new: A. similis sp. n. and A. latilobatus sp. n. The genus is re-diagnosed, all of its three species are keyed, and their distributions mapped.

Systematics of the Neotropical caddisfly genus Notidobiella Schmid (Trichoptera, Sericostomatidae), with the description of 3 new species
Three new species of Notidobiella Schmid (Insecta: Trichoptera) are described from South America: Notidobiella amazoniana sp. n. (Brazil), N. brasiliana sp. n. (Brazil), and N. ecuadorensis sp. n. (Ecuador). In addition, the 3 previously described species in the genus, N. chacayana Schmid, N. inermis Flint, and N. parallelipipeda Schmid, all endemic to southern Chile, are redescribed and illustrated, including the females of each species for the first time, and a key to males of the species in the genus is provided. The ccurrence of Notidobiella in Brazil and Ecuador represents a significant extension of the range of thegenus beyond southern Chile where it was previously thought to be endemic. The biogeography of Sericostomatidae and other austral South American Trichoptera is reviewed. The occurrence of the family in South America may not be part of a “transantarctic” exchange, but instead represent an earlier dispersal to the region. The distribution of Notidobiella in tropical South America likely represents recent dispersal from southern South America to the north.
["caddisfl y"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

A remarkable new cave scorpion of the family Pseudochactidae Gromov (Chelicerata, Scorpiones) from Vietnam
A new genus and species of scorpion belonging to the family Pseudochactidae are described based on four specimens collected in the Tien Son cave at the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam. The new species represents a true troglobitic element, the first one known for the family Pseudochactidae. This represents the third known record of a pseudochactid, and the first from Vietnam.
["Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Study of Mite Species"]

Revision of Nearctic species of Esagonatopus, with description of a new species from Florida (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae)
Esagonatopus floridensis sp. n. is described from Florida, Oklaloosa County (USA). A revision of the three Nearctic species of Esagonatopus Olmi, 1984 is presented. New data on geographic distribution, morphologic variability and opposite sexes of E. niger (Fenton, 1924) and E. perdebilis (Perkins, 1907) are given. A key to the Nearctic species of Esagonatopus is presented.

Five additions to the list of Sepsidae (Diptera) for Vietnam: Perochaeta cuirassa sp. n., Perochaeta lobo sp. n., Sepsis spura sp. n., Sepsis sepsi Ozerov, 2003 and Sepsis monostigma Thompson, 1869
A recent collecting trip to Vietnam yielded three new species and two new records of Sepsidae (Diptera) for the country. Here we describe two new species in the species-poor genus Perochaeta (Perochaeta cuirassa sp. n. and P. lobo sp. n.) and one to the largest sepsid genus Sepsis (Sepsis spura sp. n.) which is also found in Sumatra and Sulawesi. Two additional Sepsis species are new records for Vietnam (Sepsis sepsi Ozerov, 2003; Sepsis monostigma Thompson, 1869). We conclude with a discussion of the distribution of Perochaeta and the three Sepsis species.
["Sepsidae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Araneibatrus gracilipes gen. et sp. n., a remarkable Batrisitae (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae) from P. R. China
Araneibatrus gracilipes gen. n. and sp. n. from South China is described and illustrated. The systematic position of the genus is discussed.

Skeletons in confusion: a review of astrophorid sponges with (dicho–)calthrops as structural megascleres (Porifera, Demospongiae, Astrophorida)
We present a review of astrophorid species possessing calthrops megascleres as structural megascleres (including species with dichotriaene modifications, but excluding mesotriaene and trichotriaene bearing species). Radiating oxeas characteristic of most astrophorids are lacking in such sponges, but auxiliary oxeas are apparently present in some species. These sponges are currently assigned to two families, Pachastrellidae with four nominal genera Dercitus, Stoeba, Dercitancorina, Halinastra (the latter two generally considered junior synonyms of Stoeba), and Calthropellidae with nominal genera Calthropella, Corticellopsis (usually considered a junior synonym), Pachataxa and Pachastrissa. Our review of many original specimens and extensive new material demonstrates the existence of considerable morphological similarity in megasclere shape and arrangement, and possible overlap of some microscleres of these sponges: pseudasters in Dercitus resembling euasters in Calthropella, ataxasters and other modified types in Calthropellidae resembling rhabds in a species of Dercitus. Pachastrellid representatives are proposed to be united in a single genus Dercitus, recognizable as (dicho–)calthrops bearing sponges with sanidaster–like microrhabds. Three subgenera, Dercitus s.s., Stoeba and the revived Halinastra are distinguished to accommodate species groups sharing additional characters. Dercitancorina is merged with Dercitus (Stoeba), because the type species, D. lesinensis was found to be barely distinct from D. (S.) plicatus. Similarly, the calthropellid representatives are proposed to be united in a single genus Calthropella recognizable as calthrops bearing sponges with oxyasters. Three subgenera, Calthropella s.s., Pachataxa and Corticellopsis are distinguished to accommodate species groups sharing additional characters. The calthropellid genus Pachastrissa is considered a junior synonym of Calthropella s.s. because its type species, Pachastrella geodioides, is barely distinct from the type species of Calthropella, C. simplex. Two species previously assigned to Dercitus or Stoeba (Dercitus loricatus and Stoeba natalensis) are excluded from the genus Dercitus as they do not fit with the emended and improved definition of the genus. One species assigned to Calthropella, C. digitata, is excluded from that genus and assigned to the ancorinid genus Stelletta. Based on the similarity of the megascleres and their structure-less arrangement, we predict that the two reviewed genera will be found to be closely related and eventually will need to be accomodated in a single family, but independent molecular evidence is awaited before changes in the family classification, including a verdict on the validity of the family Calthropellidae, will be proposed. Our review included 38 valid species among which fourteen species and one subspecies appear to be new to science. Four of these were represented by insufficient material for a proper description, but the remaining ten are described as new species: Dercitus (Stoeba) senegalensis sp. n., Dercitus (Stoeba) verdensis sp. n., Dercitus (Stoeba) fijiensis sp. n., Dercitus (Stoeba) bahamensis sp. n., Dercitus (Halinastra) berau sp. n., Dercitus (Halinastra) japonensis sp. n., Dercitus (Halinastra) arubensis sp. n., Dercitus (Halinastra) sibogae sp. n., Calthropella (Calthropella) xavierae sp. n., and Calthropella (Pachataxa) pyrifera sp. n. The new subspecies, Dercitus (Dercitus) bucklandi lusitanicus ssp. n. is described for southern East Atlantic populations of the nominal species. Several specimens assigned to existing species were found to be deviating to the extent that they are likely members of further undescribed species. These are briefly discussed to facilitate further studies of the diversity of the two genera. Species of both genera and the six subgenera, including deviating or insufficiently characterized specimens belonging to species not yet properly described, are keyed out. Distribution patterns are discussed.
["Sponges"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Advanced Synthetic Organic Chemistry", "Synthetic Organic Chemistry Methods"]

A new Tithaeus species from Hainan Island, China (Arachnida, Opiliones, Laniatores, Epedanidae), with a key to the Chinese species
A new species of the harvestmen Tithaeus calyptratus sp. n. (Epedanidae, Opiliones) from Hainan Island (China) is diagnosed, described and illustrated. A key to the two Chinese species of Tithaeus is provided.
["Opiliones"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Revision of the rove beetle genus Antimerus (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Staphylininae), a puzzling endemic Australian lineage of the tribe Staphylinini
The genus Antimerus Fauvel, 1878, endemic to eastern Australia and Tasmania and a phylogenetically enigmatic member of the large rove beetle tribe Staphylinini, is revised. The genus and each of its four previously known species are redescribed, and a lectotype is designated for Antimerus punctipennis Lea, 1906. Five species are described as new: Antimerus metallicus sp. n., A. jamesrodmani sp. n., A. gracilis sp. n., A. bellus sp. n. and A. monteithi sp. n., so that the number of known species in this genus now totals nine. For the first time Antimerus larvae are described, tentatively identified as A. smaragdinus Fauvel, 1878, A. punctipennis and A. metallicus. Available distributional and bionomic data are provided for each species and summarized in the discussion. Adult and larval morphology of Antimerus and its distribution patterns are discussed in the broader context of new data on the evolution of the entire tribe Staphylinini, and with respect to the formation of the Australian fauna of this tribe. The phylogenetic position of Antimerus within Staphylinini remains unresolved pending a targeted formal study. However, a majority of currently available data suggests that it could be a basal member of the recently recovered monophyletic clade of Staphylinini tentatively called “Staphylinini propria”.
["Antimerus"]

Palystes kreutzmanni sp. n. – a new huntsman spider species from fynbos vegetation in Western Cape Province, South Africa (Araneae, Sparassidae, Palystinae)
Palystes kreutzmanni sp. n. is described from habitats close to Kleinmond, in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. Spiders of this new species live in the typical fynbos vegetation of the Western Cape region. They build retreats between apical leaves of Leucadendron bushes. The systematic position of P. kreutzmanni sp. n. is discussed. Male and female show characters of different species groups, especially the female copulatory organ seems to be unique within the genus Palystes L. Koch, 1875.

Agra, arboreal beetles of Neotropical forests: pusilla group and piranha group systematics and notes on their ways of life (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiini, Agrina)
Revisions of two new species groups of the genus Agra Fabricius are presented with the following species described as new: pusilla group - Agra cruciaria sp. n. (Brazil), Agra grace sp. n. (Ecuador, Perú), Agra max sp. n. (Brazil), Agra minasianus sp. n. (Brazil), Agra notpusilla sp. n. (Brazil), Agra pseudopusilla sp. n. (Brazil); piranha group - Agra ce sp. n. (Perú), Agra risseri sp. n. (Bolivia, Brazil), Agra maia sp. n. (Bolivia), Agra piranha sp. n. (Ecuador); Agra tiputini sp. n. (Ecuador). Species of these two groups have adults that are the smallest in the entire genus, although this does not indicate they are closely related based on other attributes. All species are Amazonian in distribution.

Discovery of the rare genus Blacometeorus Tobias, 1976 (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Blacinae) in the Oriental part of China, with description of a new species
The rare genus Blacometeorus Tobias, 1976 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Blacinae)is discovered in Yunnan, China, and a new species, Blacometeorus sinicus Chai & Chen, sp. n. is described and illustrated. It represents the first record of this genus both for China and Oriental region. A key to genus Blacometeorus is updated.

New or little-known species of the genus Amphimenes Bates, 1873 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Lebiinae) from Vietnam
Twelve new species of the genus Amphimenes Bates, 1873 are described from Vietnam: Amphimenes maculatus, sp. n., Amphimenes bidoupensis, sp. n., Amphimenes gracilis, sp. n., Amphimenes montanus, sp. n., Amphimenes giganteus, sp. n., Amphimenes medius, sp. n., Amphimenes minutus, sp. n., Amphimenes rufipes, sp. n., Amphimenes reflexicollis, sp. n., Amphimenes planicollis, sp. n., Amphimenes nitidus, sp. n., and Amphimenes kabakovi, sp. n.. Amphimenes rugulipennis Bates, 1892, comb. n., is transferred from the genus Brachichila Chaudoir, 1869 and is redescribed from fresh material. A key to all congeners is provided, these being arranged into five new species-groups. Adults of the rugulipennis- and piceolus-groups show subcortical habits, while those of the medius-, rufipes- and planicollis- groupsare herpetobiotic, resulting in such morphological adaptations as partly reduced eyes, missing wings and adnate elytra.

A new caddisfly genus (Trichoptera, Odontoceridae) from Vietnam
Cephalopsyche, a new genus of caddisfly (Trichoptera, Odontoceridae), is described from Vietnam. Two new species are placed in the genus: Cephalopsyche gorgona sp. n. and Cephalopsyche neboissi sp. n. The adult male and female of each species exhibit distinct sexual dimorphism, especially in head morphology. In males, there are hinged, chamber-like structures on the vertex of the head, containing filamentous, columnar tissue when exposed. Descriptions and illustrations of both species are provided.

New species and new records of Mydidae from the Afrotropical and Oriental regions (Insecta, Diptera, Asiloidea)
New Mydidae species are described from the Afrotropical and Oriental regions including the first records of this family from several countries in eastern Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) and Mauritania in western Africa as well as Nepal and Thailand in Asia. The new species are, Leptomydinae: Leptomydas notos sp. n. (south-western India), Leptomydas rapti sp. n. (south-central Nepal), Leptomydas tigris sp. n. (north-central Thailand); Syllegomydinae: Mydaselpidini: Mydaselpis ngurumani sp. n. (south-eastern Kenya, north-eastern Tanzania), Vespiodes phaios sp. n. (south-eastern Kenya); Syllegomydinae: Syllegomydini: Syllegomydas (Notobates) astrictus sp. n. (Kenya), Syllegomydas (Notobates) heothinos sp. n. (Kenya and Uganda), Syllegomydas (Syllegomydas) elachys sp. n. (northern Zimbabwe). Syllegomydas (Syllegomydas) proximus Séguy, 1928 is recorded from western Mauritania and re-described. Syllegomydas (Notobates) dispar (Loew, 1852), which was previously listed as incertae sedis in the Afrotropical Diptera catalogue, is re-described and illustrated based on examination of the type specimens and several additional specimens from Mozambique. Cephalocera annulata Brunetti, 1912 and Syllegomydas bucciferus Séguy, 1928, described from north-eastern India and previously unplaced in the Oriental Diptera catalogue, are newly combined with Leptomydas Gerstaecker, 1868 and together with Leptomydas indianus Brunetti, 1912, also from north-eastern India, placed in Leptomydinae. Comments on the possible synonymy of the genera of Mydaselpidini are made. Illustrations and photographs are provided to support the descriptions and future identification. A provisional dichotomous key to Mydidae genera occurring in eastern Africa (Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda) and the Oriental Region is provided. Distribution, occurrence in biodiversity hotspots and high-biodiversity wilderness areas, and seasonal incidence are discussed for all species.
["Mydidae"]

The Mycetophagidae (Coleoptera) of the Maritime Provinces of Canada
The Mycetophagidae (hairy fungus beetles) of the Maritime Provinces of Canada are surveyed. Seven species in the genera Mycetophagus, Litargus, and Typhaea are found in the region. Six new provincial records are reported including Mycetophagus punctatus and Mycetophagus flexuosus, whichare newly recorded in the Maritime Provinces. The distribution of all species is mapped, colour habitus photographs of all species are figured, and an identification key to species is provided. The discussion notes that four of the species found in the region are apparently rare, possibly due to the history of forest management practices in the region; a situation similar to that of a significant proportion of other saproxylic beetles found in the Maritime Provinces.
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions"]

A new species of Stenobiella Tillyard (Neuroptera, Berothidae) from Australia
Stenobiella variola sp. n., a new species of beaded lacewing (Neuroptera: Berothidae), is described and figured from south-eastern Australia. A preliminary key to Stenobiella species is presented.
["Berothidae"]

Eight new species and an annotated checklist of Microgastrinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from Canada and Alaska
Based on the study of 12,000+ specimens, an annotated checklist of 28 genera and 225 species of Microgastrinae braconids from Canada and Alaska is provided, increasing by 50% the number of species for the region. The genera Distatrix, Iconella, Protomicroplitis and Pseudapanteles for Canada, and Diolcogaster for Alaska are recorded for the first time; all but Iconella and Protomicroplitis represent the northernmost extension of their known distribution. Eight new species are described: Apanteles huberi sp. n., A. jenniferae sp. n., A. masmithi sp. n., A. roughleyi sp. n., A. samarshalli sp. n., Distatrix carolinae sp.n., Pseudapanteles gouleti sp. n., and Venanus heberti sp. n. For the more diverse genera, especially Cotesia, Microplitis, Apanteles, Dolichogenidea and Glyptapanteles, many more species are expected to be found. DNA barcode sequences (cytochrome c oxidase I, or CO1) for 3,500+ specimens provided an additional layer of useful data. CO1 sequences were incorporated to the new species descriptions whenever possible, helped to clarify the limits of some species, and flagged cases where further study is needed. Preliminary results on the latitudinal gradient of species/genera richness (45–80° N); as well as biogeographical affinities of the Canadian/Alaska fauna, are discussed. Taking into account the number of specimens in collections still to be studied, data from the barcoded specimens, and extrapolations from Lepidoptera diversity (the host group of the subfamily) the actual diversity of Microgastrinae in the region is estimated to be at least twice that currently known.
["Microgastrinae"]

The genus Ptilophora (Lepidoptera, Notodontidae) in China, with description of a new species
The genus Ptilophora Stephens in China is briefly reviewed, with the description of Ptilophora nanlingensis sp. n. The new species is most similar to Ptilophora horieaurea in wing pattern and to Ptilophora jezoensis in male genitalia, but they can be distinguished from each other by the following characters: forewing bright reddish brown in Ptilophora nanlingensis, chestnut brown in Ptilophora horieaurea; costa of male genitalia pointed, with a rounded subapical process ventrally in Ptilophora jezoensis, costa rounded, with apex inflated, and with pointed subapical process ventrally in Ptilophora nanlingensis. A key to the Ptilophora species from China and adjacent areas is presented and a distribution map is given. The holotype of the new species is deposited in the Department of Entomology, South China Agricultural University, P. R. China.

The genus Nelcyndana Stål (Hemiptera, Cicadidae, Taphurini) with description of three new species from Borneo
The type species of Nelcyndana, Nelcyndana tener (Stål, 1870) from the Philippines, is redescribed and illustrated. The taxonomic position of the genus Nelcyndana in the tribe Taphurini is discussed. Three new species from Borneo are described and illustrated: Nelcyndana borneensis sp. n., Nelcyndana vantoli sp. n., and Nelcyndana mulu sp. n. Distributions maps for the three Borneo species are presented and a key for the identification of the four Asian species of the genus is provided.
["Nelcyndana"]

Acanthodasys caribbeanensis sp. n., a new species of Thaumastodermatidae (Gastrotricha, Macrodasyida) from Belize and Panama
We describe one new species of Acanthodasys (Gastrotricha, Macrodasyida, Thaumastodermatidae) collected from sublittoral sites around Carrie Bow Cay, Belize and Isla Colón in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, Panama. Though eight species of Acanthodasys are currently recognized, no species has yet been reported from the Caribbean. Acanthodasys caribbeanensis sp. n. is characterized by the lack of lateral adhesive tubes, the presence of ventrolateral adhesive tubes, and with cuticular armature in the form of both spineless and spined scales. The spineless scales are not elliptical as in other species of Acanthodasys, but are instead variable in shape and closely resemble the spineless scales of species of Diplodasys. Spined scales bear uniancres up to 50 µm long and are the largest reported in the genus. Uniancres are arranged dorsally around the mouth rim and distributed in five distinguishable columns. Adult size varies from 325–625 µm long.
["Meiofauna"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

A review of the non-metallic Osmia (Melanosmia) found in North America, with additional notes on palearctic Melanosmia (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)
We review the six species of non-metallic Osmia (Melanosmia) found in North America, including the description of two new species found in Canada and the northern United States: Osmia (Melanosmia) aquilonaria sp. n., and Osmia (Melanosmia) nearctica sp. n., respectively belonging to the inermis and xanthomelana species groups. We additionally provide keys to the non-metallic Melanosmia found in North America, and keys to the palearctic Melanosmia based on study of the type specimens of Osmia disjuncta Tkalců, O. ephippiata Smith, O. ishikawai Hirashima, and O. pamirensis Gussakovskij.

New data on freshwater psammic Gastrotricha from Brazil
Current knowledge of freshwater gastrotrich fauna from Brazil is underestimated as only two studies are available. The present communication is a taxonomic account of the first-ever survey of freshwater Gastrotricha in Minas Gerais State. Samplings were carried out yielding six species of three Chaetonotidae genera: Aspidiophorus cf. pleustonicus, Ichthydium cf. chaetiferum, Chaetonotus acanthocephalus, C. heideri, C. cf. succinctus, Chaetonotus sp., and also an undescribed species belonging to the genus Redudasys (incertae sedis): this is the first finding of specimens of Redudasys outside of original type locality. These preliminary observations suggest that the knowledge of the biodiversity of Gastrotricha in the Minas Gerais State, as well as in the whole Brazil, will certainly increase as further investigations are undertaken, and that freshwater Macrodasyida may be more common than previously thought.
["freshwater Gastrotricha"]
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

A new species of Harpactea (Araneae, Dysderidae) from Aegean region of Turkey
A new species of the spider genus Harpactea Bristowe, 1939 is described from the Aegean region of Turkey – Harpactea erseni sp. n. (males only). Detailed morphological description and illustrations of the new species are provided. The relationships of the new species are discussed.
["Dysderidae"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Date Palm Research Studies"]

Aleocharine rove beetles (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) associated with Leptogenys Roger, 1861 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) II. Two new genera and two new species associated with L. borneensis Wheeler, 1919
Two new genera and two new species of Aleocharinae (Staphylinidae) from Malaysia are described: Parawroughtonilla Maruyama, gen. n. (type species: Parawroughtonilla hirsuta Maruyama, sp. n.), Leptogenonia Maruyama, gen. n. (type species: Leptogenonia roslii Maruyama, sp. n.), which are associated with Leptogenys borneensis Wheeler, 1919. They are closely related and share a unique character state of the aedeagus.
["Myrmecophily"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Plant and animal studies"]

Aleocharine rove beetles (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) associated with Leptogenys Roger, 1861 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) I. Review of three genera associated with L. distinguenda (Emery, 1887) and L. mutabilis (Smith, 1861)
Three myrmecophilous genera of Aleocharinae (Staphylinidae) associated with Leptogenys distinguenda (Emery, 1887) and Leptogenys mutabilis (Smith, 1861) are reviewed with descriptions of new taxa: Maschwitzia Kistner, 1989, Togpelenys Kistner, 1989 and Witteia Maruyama & von Beeren, gen. n. (type species: Witteia dentilabrum Maruyama & von Beeren, sp. n.). The following new combinations are proposed: Zyras (s. lat.) aenictophila (Kistner, 1997), comb. n. (ex Maschwitzia), Zyras (s. lat.) dichthadiaphila (Kistner in Kistner et al., 2003), comb. n. (ex Maschwitzia), Maschwitzia derougemonti (Pace, 1984), comb. n. (ex Wroughtonilla Wasmann, 1899), Maschwitzia watanabei (Maruyama, 2004), comb. n. (ex Wroughtonilla), Maschwitzia dilatata (Pace, 2005), comb. n. (ex Wroughtonilla), Witteia borneensis (Pace, 1986), comb. n. (ex Wroughtonilla). These genera belong to the Wroughtonilla genus group of the tribe Lomechusini.
["Myrmecophily"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A review of the Holarctic genus Tmeticus Menge, 1868 (Araneae, Linyphiidae), with a description of a new genus
Eight species attributed to Tmeticus are reviewed; five are redescribed and illustrated: Tmeticus affinis (Blackwall, 1885), Tmeticus bipunctis (Bösenberg & Strand, 1906), Tmeticus nigriceps Kulczyński, 1916, Tmeticus ornatus (Emerton, 1914) and Tmeticus tolli Kulczyński, 1908. The new genus, Paratmeticus gen. n. is erected for Tmeticus bipunctis, and a new combination is established: Paratmeticus bipunctis (Bösenberg & Strand, 1906), comb. n. Three species names: Gongylidium vile Kulczyński, 1885, syn. n., Tmeticus difficilis Kulczyński, 1926, syn. n. and Tmeticus dubius Kulczyński, 1926, syn. n., are synonymized with Tmeticus tolli Kulczyński, 1908. Although Gongylidium vile has date priority over Tmeticus tolli it is synonymized because of the lack of usage. Three species from Japan attributed to Tmeticus: Tmeticus neserigonoides Saito & Ono, 2001, Tmeticus nigerrimus Saito & Ono, 2001 and Tmeticus vulcanicus Saito & Ono, 2001 are not related to Tmeticus affinis, the type species of the genus, and their affinities remain unclear. The male of Tmeticus nigriceps is described for the first time.
["spiders"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies", "Entomological Studies and Ecology"]

Australian gall-inducing scale insects on Eucalyptus: revision of Opisthoscelis Schrader (Coccoidea, Eriococcidae) and descriptions of a new genus and nine new species
We revise the genus Opisthoscelis Schrader, and erect the genus Tanyscelis gen. n. with Opisthoscelis pisiformis Froggatt as its type species. Species of both genera induce sexually dimorphic galls on Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae) in Australia, with Opisthoscelis subrotunda Schrader also in Papua New Guinea. We synonymise the following taxa (junior synonym with senior synonym): Opisthoscelis fibularis Froggatt, syn. n. with Opisthoscelis spinosa Froggatt; Opisthoscelis recurva Froggatt, syn. n. with Opisthoscelis maculata Froggatt; Opisthoscelis globosa Froggatt, syn. n. (= Opisthoscelis ruebsaameni Lindinger) with Opisthoscelis convexa Froggatt; and Opisthoscelis mammularis Froggatt, syn. n. with Opisthoscelis verrucula Froggatt. We transfer seven Opisthoscelis species to Tanyscelis as Tanyscelis conica (Fuller), comb. n., Tanyscelis convexa (Froggatt), comb. n., Tanyscelis maculata (Froggatt), comb. n., Tanyscelis maskelli (Froggatt), comb. n., Tanyscelis pisiformis (Froggatt), comb. n., Tanyscelis spinosa (Froggatt), comb. n., and Tanyscelis verrucula (Froggatt), comb. n. We redescribe and illustrate the adult female of each named species of Opisthoscelis for which the type material is known, as well as the first-instar nymph of the type species of Opisthoscelis (Opisthoscelis subrotunda) and Tanyscelis (Opisthoscelis pisiformis). We describe four new species of Opisthoscelis: Opisthoscelis beardsleyi Hardy & Gullan, sp. n., Opisthoscelis thurgoona Hardy & Gullan, sp. n., Opisthoscelis tuberculata Hardy & Gullan, sp. n., and Opisthoscelis ungulifinis Hardy & Gullan, sp. n., and five new species of Tanyscelis: Tanyscelis grallator Hardy & Gullan, sp. n., Tanuscelis megagibba Hardy & Gullan, sp. n., Tanyscelis mollicornuta Hardy & Gullan, sp. n., Tanyscelis tripocula Hardy & Gullan, sp. n., and Tanyscelis villosigibba Hardy & Gullan, sp. n. We designate lectotypes for Opisthoscelis convexa, Opisthoscelis fibularis, Opisthoscelis globosa Froggatt, Opisthoscelis maculata, Opisthoscelis mammularis, Opisthoscelis maskelli, Opisthoscelis pisiformis, Opisthoscelis recurva, Opisthoscelis serrata, Opisthoscelis spinosa, and Opisthoscelis verrucula. As a result of our taxonomic revision, Opisthoscelis has six species and Tanyscelis has 12 species. We describe the galls of females for all 18 species and galls of males for 10 species of Opisthoscelis and Tanyscelis, and provide photographs of the galls for most species. A key to the adult females of the species of both genera is included.
["Research on scale insects", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Raveniola niedermeyeri from Iran: redescription and new data on distribution (Araneae, Nemesiidae)
Raveniola niedermeyeri (Brignoli, 1972), a poorly known species, is rediagnosed and redescribed from the types and from recently collected material from northern and central regions of Iran. This species differs from its congeners in the male embolus curved distally, as well as in the unique conformation of the spermathecae. New data on the distribution of Raveniola niedermeyeri in Iran are also provided.

Descriptions of two new species in the genus Macrostylis Sars, 1864 (Isopoda, Asellota, Macrostylidae) from the Weddell Sea (Southern Ocean), with a synonymisation of the genus Desmostylis Brandt, 1992 with Macrostylis
Descriptions of Macrostylis antennamagna sp. n. and Macrostylis uniformis sp. n. are presented with notes on intraspecific variability and sexual dimorphism. Macrostylis uniformis sp. n. showes differences to Macrostylis antennamagna sp. n. in the length of the antenna 2, the shape of the pleotelson and length of uropods. The genus Desmostylis Brandt, 1992 (formerly including the two species Desmostylis obscurus Brandt, 1992 and Desmostylis gerdesi Brandt, 2002) is synonymised with the genus Macrostylis. Based on type material additional remarks and additions to the original descriptions are provided for both species. Results lead to following nomenclatorial changes: Macrostylis obscurus (Brandt, 1992), comb. n. and Macrostylis gerdesi (Brandt, 2002), comb. n. A setal nomenclature is proposed and the diagnosis for the family is revised.
["Antarcticp"]

Five new species of Triotemnus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) from Morocco and Yemen
Five new species of the genus Triotemnus from Morocco and Yemen are described. Triotemnus is a new genus of Scolytinae for the Yemen region. External morphology of the new species and all morphologically related species of the genus was studied. While the new species from Morocco are morphologically similar to the known species from the corresponding region, all three newly described species from Yemen, mainly two of them living in Socotra, are morphologically very different from all other known species of the genus. Geographical distribution and the probability of endemicity are discussed.
["Bark beetles"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Taxonomic notes on the afrotropical genera Hapalogenius Hagedorn, Hylesinopsis Eggers, and Rhopalopselion Hagedorn (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae)
Taxonomic confusion among the afrotropical scolytine genera Hapalogenius Hagedorn, Hylesinopsis Eggers and Rhopalopselion Hagedorn, and their synonyms is discussed with especial reference to the catalogues of Wood and Bright (1992), and Alonso-Zarazaga and Lyal (2009). A key is given to separate the three genera recognised, and the species considered to be included in each genus are listed. Hylesinopsis is resurrected from synonymy with Hapalogenius, and shown not to be closely related to it. Chilodendron Schedl is considered to be a synonym of Hylesinopsis and not of Xylechinus Chapuis. The following new synonymy is proposed at specific level: Hapalogenius africanus (Eggers) (= Hapalogenius lesnei Eggers, = Metahylesinus brincki Schedl); Hapalogenius fuscipennis (Chapuis) (= Hapalogenius bimaculatus Eggers); Hapalogenius oblongus (Eggers) (= Metahylesinus striatus Schedl); Hylesinopsis fasciata (Hagedorn) (= Kissophagus punctatus Eggers); Phrixosoma niger Eggers (= Hapalogenius niger Schedl). The following species are returned to Hylesinopsis from Hapalogenius to which they were transferred by Alonso-Zarazaga and Lyal (2009): Hylesinopsis alluaudi (Lepesme), H. angolensis (Schedl), H. arabiae (Schedl), H. atra (Nunberg), H. confusa (Eggers), H. decellei (Nunberg), H. dubia Eggers, H. emarginata (Nunberg), H. fasciata (Hagedorn), H. ficus (Schedl), H. granulata (Lepesme), H. hirsuta (Schedl), H. joveri (Schedl), H. pauliani (Lepesme), H. punctata (Eggers), H. saudiarabiae (Schedl). The following new combination is given: Hylesinopsis leprosula (Browne) from Cryphalus Erichson. New distributional records are given for some species.

Revision of the genus Phloeoditica Schedl - with description of two new genera and two new species in Phloeosinini (Coleoptera: Curculoninidae, Scolytinae)
The genus Phloeoditica Schedl currently includes four species from Southeast Asia. These species vary substantially in important morphological characters and indicate the existence of multiple genera for these species. A revision based on morphological and in part molecular data resulted in the transfer of Phloeoditica setosa to Pseudoxylechinus, the erection of a new genus Asiophilus for Phloeoditica phloeosinoides and a new species A. macropunctatus from Vietnam. Another new genus with affinities to Phloeoditica is described based on the new species Microditica uniseriata from Thailand. The new genera are included in a revised key to the tribe Phloeosinini.
["Phloeoditica"]

New data on Neotropical Scolytus Geoffroy, 1762 with description of five new species from Peru (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae)
Five new species of Scolytus Geoffroy, 1762 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) are described from Peru, namely S. woodi, S. carveli, S. vagabundus, S. lindemani, S. mozolevskae. The following new synonym is established: Scolytus angustatus Browne, 1970 (= Scolytus facialis Schedl, 1973, syn. n.) New records of the Scolytus species in Loreto, Junin ,Cusco and Madre de Dios Provinces are given and the biology of the genus representatives is discussed.

Resurrection of Dryotomicus Wood and description of two new species from the Amazon River Basin (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Phloeotribini)
A cladistic analysis based on 20 morphological characters was conducted for 11 species representing two valid and two synonymized Phloeotribini genera. One hundred-eighty most-parsimonious trees were recovered and the Dryotomicus Wood species were monophyletic in a mostly unresolved strict-consensus tree. The unusual antennal morphology, with the length of the first two funicular segments equal to the last three segments and a scape which is twice the length of the funicle, distinguish Dryotomicus from the other Phloeotribini genera. Hence this genus is resurrected because of monophyly and diagnostic characters. Dryotomicus oenophilis sp. n. and D. woodrex sp. n. are described from Guyana and Peru, respectively. In the male specimen of D. oenophilis, the frons has one median and two large lateral carinae and in the male specimen of D. woodrex, the frons has three smaller median tubercles arranged transversely. Phloeotribus puberulus Chapuis and P. tuberculatus (Eggers) were monophyletic with the new Dryotomicus species and thus are transferred to this genus. Keys to the Phloeotribini genera and Dryotomicus species are given.
["Scolytidae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research"]

Stevewoodia minutum, a new genus and species of Scolytidae (Coleoptera) From the West Indies. Studies on West Indian Scolytidae (Coleoptera) 6
A new genus of Scolytidae (Coleoptera), Stevewoodia, from St. Lucia in the Lesser Antilles, is herein named and described. The type species, Stevewoodia minutum sp. n. is also named. The genus is named in honor of the late Steven L. Wood for his many contributions to the systematics of the Scolytidae.
["Curculionidae"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research"]

Notes on Scolytus fagi Walsh, 1867 with the designation of a neotype, distribution notes and a key to Scolytus Geoffroy of America east of the Mississippi River (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae, Scolytini)
The identification of Scolytus fagi Walsh has been difficult because of the lack of diagnostic literature, the occurrence of several morphologically similar sympatric Scolytus species and the loss of the syntypes. In an effort to reduce taxonomic confusion, we designate a neotype for S. fagi, redescribe the male and female, add new distributional records and create a key for the identification of eastern Scolytus species.
["Scolytidae"]

Calosota Curtis (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Eupelmidae) – review of the New World and European fauna including revision of species from the West Indies and Central and North America
Two of three species previously classified in Calosota Curtis (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) from the Neotropical region are transferred to Eupelminae. Calosota eneubulus (Walker) from Galapagos Islands is transferred to Eupelmus Dalman as Eupelmus (Eupelmus) eneubulus (Walker), comb. n., and Calosota silvai (Brèthes) from Chile is transferred to Brasema Cameron as Brasema silvai comb. n. Calosota cecidobius (Kieffer) from Argentina is retained in Calosota, with reservation, as an unrecognized species. The species of Calosota from the New World excluding South America are revised. Eleven species are recognized, including the seven newly described species Calosota albipalpus sp. n. (Costa Rica, Mexico, USA, Venezuela), Calosota bicolorata sp. n. (USA), Calosota elongata sp. n. (USA), Calosota longivena sp. n. (USA), Calosota panamaensis sp. n. (Panama), Calosota setosa sp. n. (Bahamas, Dominican Republic, USA), and Calosota speculifrons sp. n. (Costa Rica, USA). The 11 regional species and the Palaearctic species Calosota vernalis Curtis are keyed and illustrated. Calosota vernalis is not known to occur in the New World but is included in the key and diagnosed because it has been intercepted in quarantine in Canada. Calosota pseudotsugae Burks is placed in synonymy under Calosota acron (Walker), syn. n., and Calosota kentra Burks, Calosota montana Burks and Calosota septentrionalis Hedqvist are placed in synonymy under Calosota aestivalis Curtis syn. n. Calosota modesta Bolívar y Pieltain is removed from synonymy under Calosota viridis Masi, stat. rev., and Calosota viridis, Calosota matritensis Bolívar y Pieltain, and Calosota coerulea Nikol’skaya are placed in synonymy under Calosota metallica (Gahan), syn. n. Calosota grylli Erdös is confirmed as a separate species from Calosota metallica based on features of both sexes. It is suggested that Calosota ariasi Bolívar y Pieltain may be a synonym of Calosota aestivalis, Calosota bolivari Askew may be a synonym of Calosota agrili Nikol’skaya, Calosota dusmeti Bolívar y Pieltain may be a synonym of Calosota violascens Masi, and Calosota lixobia Erdös likely is not a junior synonym of Calosota obscura Ruschka, but formal nomenclatural changes are not proposed prior to a comprehensive Palaearctic revision. Previous interpretation of the mesoscutum in Calosota and Balcha Walker is also modified to include the presence of anteroadmedian lines in addition to notauli and parapsidal lines.
["Agrilus coxalis"]

Revision of the Agathidinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) of Vietnam, with the description of forty-two new species and three new genera
The species of seventeen genera of Agathidinae (Braconidae) from Vietnam are revised: Agathis Latreille, 1804, Bassus Fabricius, 1804; Biroia Szépligeti, 1900; Braunsia Kriechbaumer, 1894; Camptothlipsis Enderlein, 1920; Coccygidium de Saussure, 1892; Coronagathis gen. n. (type species: Coronagathis cornifera sp. n.); Cremnops Foerster, 1862; Disophrys Foerster, 1862; Earinus Wesmael, 1837; Euagathis Szépligeti, 1900; Gyragathis gen. n. (type species: Gyragathis quyi sp. n.), Gyrochus Enderlein, 1920; Lytopylus Foerster, 1862; Therophilus Wesmael, 1837; Troticus Brullé, 1846, and Zelodia gen. n. (type species: Zelomorpha varipes van Achterberg & Maetô, 1990). Keys to the Vietnamese species are given. Sixty-five species are recognised, of which twelve species are newly recorded for Vietnam: Bassus albifasciatus (Watanabe, 1934), Coccygidium angostura (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), Cremnops atricornis (Smith, 1874), stat. n., Disophrys erythrocephala Cameron, 1900, Gyrochus yunnanensis Wang, 1984, Lytopylus romani (Shestakov, 1940), comb. n., Therophilus festivus (Muesebeck, 1953), comb. n., Therophilus javanus (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Therophilus lienhuachihensis (Chou & Sharkey, 1989), comb. n., Therophilus marshi (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Zelodia absoluta (Chen & Yang, 1998), comb. n. and Zelodia longidorsata (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n. Forty-two species are new to science: Agathis citrinisoma sp. n., Bassus albobasalis sp. n., Bassus albozonatus sp. n., Biroia soror sp. n., Braunsia bicolorata sp. n., Braunsia devriesi sp. n., Braunsia maculifera sp. n., Braunsia nigrapiculata sp. n., Braunsia pumatica sp. n., Camptothlipsis hanoiensis sp. n., Coronagathis cornifera sp. n., Earinus aurantius sp. n., Earinus brevistigmus sp. n., Euagathis flavosoma sp. n., Disophrys maculifera sp. n., Disophrys quymanhi sp. n., Disophrys rhinoides sp. n., Gyragathis quyi sp. n., Therophilus annuliferus sp. n., Therophilus cattienensis sp. n., Therophilus contrastus sp. n., Therophilus crenulisulcatus sp. n., Therophilus depressiferus sp. n., Therophilus elongator sp. n., Therophilus levisoma sp. n., Therophilus marucae sp. n., Therophilus mellisoma sp. n., Therophilus nigrolineatus sp. n., Therophilus nuichuaensis sp. n., Therophilus parasper sp. n., Therophilus planifrons sp. n., Therophilus punctiscutum sp. n., Therophilus robustus sp. n., Therophilus rugosiferus sp. n., Therophilus scutellatus sp. n., Troticus alloflavus sp. n., Troticus giganteus sp. n., Zelodia albobasalis sp. n., Zelodia anginota sp. n., Zelodia bicoloristigma sp. n., Zelodia brevifemoralis sp. n. and Zelodia flavistigma sp. n. The following new synonyms are proposed: Euagathis nigrithorax Bhat & Gupta, 1977, Euagathis variabilis Enderlein, 1920, Euagathis variabilis var. tibialis Enderlein, 1920, Euagathis variabilis var. melanopleura Enderlein, 1920 and Euagathis variabilis var. sucarandana Enderlein, 1920 with Euagathis abbotti (Ashmead, 1900); Euagathis jinshanensis Chen & Yang, 2006 and Euagathis sharkeyi Chen & Yang, 2006, with Euagathis forticarinata (Cameron, 1899). The genus Amputostypos Sharkey, 2009, is synonymised with Coccygidium de Saussure, 1892, syn. n. The following new combinations are given: Bassus subrasa (Enderlein, 1920), comb. n., Gyragathis angulosa (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Lytopylus romani (Shestakov, 1940), comb. n., Therophilus annulus (Chou & Sharkey, 1989), comb. n., Therophilus asper (Chou & Sharkey, 1989), comb. n., Therophilus cingulipes (Nees, 1812), comb. n., Therophilus daanyuanensis (Chen & Yang, 2006), comb. n., Therophilus fujianicus (Chen & Yang, 2006), comb. n., Therophilus javanus (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Therophilus lanyuensis (Chou & Sharkey, 1989), comb. n., Therophilus luzonicus (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Therophilus muesebecki (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Therophilus rudimentarius (Enderlein, 1920), comb. n., Therophilus similis (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Therophilus sungkangensis (Chou & Sharkey, 1989), comb. n., Therophilus tanycoleosus (Chen & Yang, 2006), comb. n., Therophilus tonghuaensis (Chen & Yang, 2006), comb. n., Therophilus tongmuensis (Chen & Yang, 2006), comb. n., Therophilus transcasperatus (Chen & Yang, 2006), comb. n., Troticus latiabdominalis (Bhat, 1978), comb. n., Zelodia absoluta (Chen & Yang, 1998), comb. n., Zelodia achterbergi (Chen & Yang, 2006), comb. n., Zelodia albopilosella (Cameron, 1908), comb. n., Zelodia chromoptera (Roman, 1913), comb. n., Zelodia nihonensis (Sharkey, 1996), comb. n., Zelodia cordata (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Zelodia diluta (Turner, 1918), comb. n., Zelodia dravida (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Zelodia exornata (Turner, 1918), comb. n., Zelodia longidorsata (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Zelodia longiptera (Yang & Chen, 2006), comb. n., Zelodia maculipes (Cameron, 1911), comb. n., Zelodia nigra (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Zelodia philippinensis (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Zelodia reticulosa (Yang & Chen, 2006), comb. n., Zelodia quadrifossulata (Enderlein, 1920), comb. n., Zelodia ruida (Sharkey, 1996), comb. n., Zelodia similis (Bhat & Gupta, 1977), comb. n., Zelodia penetrans (Smith, 1860), comb. n. and Zelodia varipes (van Achterberg & Maetô, 1990), comb. n.
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A new species of dactyloid anole (Iguanidae, Polychrotinae, Anolis) from the southeastern slopes of the Andes of Ecuador
We describe a new species of Anolis from the southeastern slopes of the Andes of Ecuador, province of Zamora-Chinchipe, Parque Nacional Podocarpus. It belongs to (1) the aequatorialis species-group by being of moderate to large size with narrow toe lamellae, and (2) the eulaemus sub-group bya typical Anolis digit, in which the distal lamellae of phalanx II distinctly overlap the proximal scales of phalanx I. The new species is most similar morphologically to Anolis fitchi but differs from it mainly bya dewlap with longitudinal rows of 2−5 granular, minute scales separated by naked skin (longitudinal rows of one or two keeled, large scales separated by naked skin in Anolis fitchi) and a vertically shorter dewlap (longer dewlap in Anolis fitchi).

Identity of Squalius (Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae) from Istra Peninsula in Croatia (Adriatic Sea basin)
A chub of previously ambiguous identity from the Boljunscica and Pazincica rivers (south-eastern Istra Peninsula) was studied and compared with geographically close Squalius squalus, Squalius zrmanja, and Squalius janae recently described from the Dragonja River drainage in the Adriatic Sea basin in Slovenia. It was shown that the chub from the south-eastern Istra Peninsula differs from all know species of Squalius but one: Squalius janae. Three samples examined from Boljunscica and Pazincica rivers and Squalius janae from its type locality, Dragonja River, show the following characters typical for the latter species: a long head (the head length 27–32% SL); a pointed conical snout with a clearly projecting upper jaw; a long straight mouth cleft, the lower jaw length (39–45% HL) exceeding the caudal peduncle depth; a large eye; commonly 9½ branched anal-fin rays; commonly 44 total vertebrae (24+20 or 25+19); bright silvery colouration, scales easily lost; iris, pectoral, pelvic and anal fin pigmentation with yellow shades. The data on the distribution of Squalius chubs in the northern Adriatic basin support the assumption that the range of Squalius janae is determined by the geology of the Trieste Flysch Basin and the Pazin Flysch Basin forming the base of the Istra Peninsula. The distribution pattern of this species does not support a simple model of fish dispersal and a complete connectivity within the whole Palaeo-Po historical drainage. Indeed, it indicates a disrupted surface palaeohydrography that was heavily fragmented by karstification in the whole Dinaric area.
["freshwater fish distribution"]
["Fish Biology and Ecology Studies", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology"]

Review of the genus Thubana Walker (Lepidoptera, Lecithoceridae) from China, with description of one new species
The genus Thubana Walker is reviewed for China. Nine species are recognized, of which Thubana felinaurita Li, sp. n. is described as new; Thubana dialeukos Park, 2003 and Thubana xanthoteles (Meyrick, 1923) are newly recorded for this country; Thubana stenosis (Park, 2003), syn. n. is synonymised with Thubana xanthoteles, and Thubana microcera (Gozmány, 1978), syn. n. with Thubana leucosphena Meyrick, 1931. Images of adults and genitalia are provided. A checklist of Thubana species in China is included, along with a key to these species.

Redescription of Stenolophus thoracicus Casey (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Harpalini), a valid species
Stenolophus thoracicus Casey is revalidated. The species is redescribed based on a study of the syntypes and of several conspecific specimens from eastern North America. The species differs from the other eastern species of the subgenus Agonoleptus inthe metasternum shorter and the wings reduced to tiny stubs. The dorsal habitus and median lobe of the aedeagus, along with the structures of the internal sac, are illustrated.

A new species of Myrmedonota Cameron from eastern Kansas (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Aleocharinae)
Myrmedonota heliantha sp. n. is described from eastern Kansas (USA). All specimens were collected from dung. A modified new key to the species of Myrmedonota of America north of Mexico is provided.
["Lomechusini"]
["Wireless Communication Networks Research", "Advanced MIMO Systems Optimization", "Advanced Wireless Network Optimization"]

Discovery of the water scavenger beetle genus Brownephilus Mouchamps in Turkey (Coleoptera, Hydrophilidae, Hydrophilini)
The recently described Hydrochara major İncekara, Mart, Polat, & Karaca, 2009 from Turkey is transferred to the genus Brownephilus Mouchamps. New records and habitat information are given for the species, as well as diagnostic features for separating it from the only other described member of the genus, Brownephilus levantinus Balfour-Browne. The discovery of Brownephilus in Turkey marks the first time the lineage has been found since its original description more than seventy years ago.

A new species of Odaginiceps Fiers, 1995 (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Tetragonicipitidae) from the Mediterranean coast of Turkey
Male and female of Odaginiceps korykosensis sp. n. (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Tetragonicipitidae), collected in the intertidal zone of Kızkalesi beach along the Mediterranean coast of Turkey (Mersin Province), are described. The new species is the fifth member of the genus and can easily be distinguished from the other species by the presence of four setae/spines on the second endopodal segment of P4 and by the structure of the caudal rami. Previously, representatives of the genus Odaginiceps have been reported from Gulf of Mexico, off Bermuda and Kenya. Odaginiceps korykosensis sp. n. is the first record of the genus in the Mediterranean Sea.

The genus Keilbachia Mohrig from Mainland China, with descriptions of two new species (Diptera, Sciaridae)
Seven species of Keilbachia Mohrig are recognized, and among them, two new species, K. subacumina Wu & Zhang, sp. n. and K. fengyangensis Wu & Zhang, sp. n. are described and illustrated. Five species, K. orthonema, K. flagrispina, K. demssia, K. oligonema and K. acumina are reported for the first time from China. A key to the 15 Chinese species of this genus is also provided.
["Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

New species and records of ortholasmatine harvestmen from Mexico, Honduras, and the western United States (Opiliones, Nemastomatidae, Ortholasmatinae)
The genus Trilasma Goodnight & Goodnight, 1942 is reinstated for Mexican ortholasmatines, and Cladolasma Suzuki, 1963 is reinstated for two species from Japan and Thailand, C. parvula Suzuki, comb. n. and C. angka (Schwendinger & Gruber), comb. n. Eight new species in the subfamily Ortholasmatinae Shear & Gruber, 1983 are described, as follows: Ortholasma colossus sp. n. is from California, Trilasma tempestado sp. n., T. hidalgo sp. n., T. trispinosum sp. n., T. ranchonuevo sp. n., T. petersprousei sp. n. and T. chipinquensis sp. n. are from Mexico, and T. tropicum sp. n. from Honduras, the farthest south for a dyspnoan harvestman in the New World. A new distribution record for Martensolasma jocheni Shear, 2006 is given. The recently described Upper Cretaceous amber fossil Halitherses grimaldii Giribet & Dunlop, 2005 is not a member of the Ortholasmatinae, but is likely a troguloidean of an undiagnosed family.
["Ortholasma"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Insects Attracted to Maple Sap: Observations from Prince Edward Island, Canada
The collection of maple sap for the production of maple syrup is a large commercial enterprise in Canada and the United States. In Canada, which produces 85% of the world’s supply, it has an annual value of over $168 million CAD. Over 38 million trees are tapped annually, 6.5% of which use traditional buckets for sap collection. These buckets attract significant numbers of insects. Despite this, there has been very little investigation of the scale of this phenomenon and the composition of insects that are attracted to this nutrient source. The present paper reports the results of a preliminary study conducted on Prince Edward Island, Canada. Twenty-eight species of Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, and Trichoptera were found in maple sap buckets, 19 of which are known to be attracted to saps and nectars. The physiological role of sap feeding is discussed with reference to moths of the tribe Xylenini, which are active throughout the winter, and are well documented as species that feed on sap flows. Additionally, 18 of the 28 species found in this study are newly recorded in Prince Edward Island.
["Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Taxonomic study of subgenus Plastus s. str. (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Osoriinae) in China, with descriptions of five new species
This paper treats Chinese species of the rove beetle genus Plastus Bernhauer, 1903, subgenus Plastus s. str. (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Osoriinae). None of the 87 previously described species of this subgenus are known from China. The following five new species are described and illustrated: Plastus (s. str.) amplus Wu & Zhou, sp. n. from Xizang, P. (s. str.) biconcavus Wu & Zhou, sp. n. from Guangxi, P. (s. str.) rhombicus Wu & Zhou, sp. n. from Yunnan, P. (s. str.) shanghaiensis Wu & Zhou, sp. n. from Shanghai, and P. (s. str.) tuberculatus Wu & Zhou, sp. n. from Hainan. A key to adults of the five known Chinese species is provided.

A new species of Tegenaria Latreille, 1804 (Araneae, Agelenidae) from Turkey
A new species of the spider genus Tegenaria Latreille, 1804 is described, based on newly collected specimens from Turkey. Detailed morphological descriptions, diagnosis and figures of the copulatory organs of both sexes are presented. Finally, a checklist and distribution maps for Turkish Tegenaria species are provided.
["Agelenidae"]

World species of the genus Platyscelio Kieffer (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae)
The genus Platyscelio Kieffer (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae, Scelioninae) is a widespread group in the Old World, found from West Africa to northern Queensland, Australia. The species concepts are revised and a key to world species is presented. The genus is comprised of 6 species, including 2 known species which are redescribed: Platyscelio africanus Risbec (Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Yemen, Zimbabwe); and Platyscelio pulchricornis Kieffer (Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, Taiwan, Thailand, Vanuatu, Vietnam). Five species-group names are considered to be junior synonyms of Platyscelio pulchricornis: Platyscelio abnormis Crawford, syn. n., Platyscelio dunensis Mukerjee, syn. n., Platyscelio mirabilis Dodd, syn. n., Platyscelio punctatus Kieffer, syn. n., and Platyscelio wilcoxi Fullaway. The following species are hypothesized and described as new taxa: Platyscelio arcuatus Taekul & Johnson, sp. n. (Western Australia); Platyscelio mysterium Taekul & Johnson, sp. n. (Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa); Platyscelio mzantsi Taekul & Johnson, sp. n. (South Africa); and Platyscelio striga Taekul & Johnson, sp. n. (Western Australia).
["Platygastridae"]

Stomosis arachnophila sp. n., a new kleptoparasitic species of freeloader flies (Diptera, Milichiidae)
Stomosis arachnophila Brake, sp. n. (Diptera, Milichiidae) is described from Western Australia. The species is kleptoparasitic on araneid spiders.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

Parisognoriste, a new genus of Lygistorrhinidae (Diptera: Sciaroidea) from the Oise amber with redescription of Palaeognoriste Meunier
A new genus and a new species of Lygistorrhinidae, Parisognoriste eocenica is described from the Eocene Oise amber of the Paris Basin. Palaeognoriste sciariforme Meunier, 1904 and Palaeognoriste affine Meunier, 1912 are re-described. Lectotypes are designated for both species of Palaeognoriste. The phylogenetic positions of the new genus and Palaeognoriste Meunier are discussed.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

The centipede genus Eupolybothrus Verhoeff, 1907 (Chilopoda: Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae) in North Africa, a cybertaxonomic revision, with a key to all species in the genus and the first use of DNA barcoding for the group
The centipede genus Eupolybothrus Verhoeff, 1907 in North Africa is revised. A new cavernicolous species, E. kahfi Stoev & Akkari, sp. n., is described from a cave in Jebel Zaghouan, northeast Tunisia. Morphologically, it is most closely related to E. nudicornis (Gervais, 1837) from North Africa and Southwest Europe but can be readily distinguished by the long antennae and leg-pair 15, a conical dorso-median protuberance emerging from the posterior part of prefemur 15, and the shape of the male first genital sternite. Molecular sequence data from the cytochrome c oxidase I gene (mtDNA–5’ COI-barcoding fragment) exhibit 19.19% divergence between E. kahfi and E. nudicornis, an interspecific value comparable to those observed among four other species of Eupolybothrus which, combined with a low intraspecific divergence (0.3-1.14%), supports the morphological diagnosis of E. kahfi as a separate species. This is the first troglomorphic myriapod to be found in Tunisia, and the second troglomorph lithobiomorph centipede known from North Africa. E. nudicornis is re-described based on abundant material from Tunisia and its post-embryonic development, distribution and habitat preferences recorded. E. cloudsley-thompsoni Turk, 1955, a nominal species based on Tunisian type material, is placed in synonymy with E. nudicornis. To comply with the latest technological developments in publishing of biological information, the paper implements new approaches in cybertaxonomy, including database and interactive key publishing, georeferencing of all localities via Google Earth, and ZooBank, GenBank and MorphBank registration of datasets. An interactive key to all valid species of Eupolybothrus is made with DELTA software.
["Eupolybothrus kahfi sp. n."]
["Genetic diversity and population structure", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Anticosti Island: a hot spot for Neospondylis upiformis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in eastern Canada?
["Anticosti island"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

A new species of the ant genus Leptogenys Roger, 1861 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from India
["Leptogenys"]

Check-list of vascular plant communities on ironstone ranges of south-eastern Brazil: dataset for conservation
["canga"]
["Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Two centipedes new to the fauna of La Palma (Canary Islands, Spain) and notes on the Lithobiomorpha of the island (Chilopoda, Myriapoda)
Recent collecting on the island of La Palma has yielded two new records, Lithobius (Monotarsobius) crassipesoides and Lithobius (Lithobius) melanops, the former also being new to the Canary Islands and is recorded for the first time after its recent description. We additionally provide species records for the lithobiomorph species of the island, with new locality data and a distribution map based on recent and literature records. We update the checklist of the lithobiomorph species of the Canaries and document all the newly collected species.
["The Canary Islands"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Earthworms (Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae) of Interior Alaska
Earthworms in the family Lumbricidae in Alaska, which are known from coastal regions, primarily in south-central and south-eastern Alaska, are thought to be entirely non-native and have been shown to negatively impact previously earthworm-free ecosystems in study regions outside of Alaska. Despite occasional collections by curious citizens, there had not been a standardised earthworm survey performed in Interior Alaska and no published records exist of earthworms species from this region. Mustard extraction was used to sample six locations that differed in elevation, mostly in the College region of Fairbanks, Alaska. Two of the six locations yielded earthworms. There was no relationship between earthworm abundance and elevation (p = 0.087), although our sample size was small. Our sampling, combined with specimens in the University of Alaska Museum, has documented four exotic species and one presumed native species of lumbricid earthworms in Interior Alaska.
["Clitellata"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

A first checklist of the Pteridophytes of Togo (West Africa)
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

New records and range extensions of several species of native bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) from Mississippi

First observations of the bigfin squid Magnapinna sp. in the Colombian Southern Caribbean
Herein, first observations are reported of Magnapinna squids in the Colombian Southern Caribbean. Two specimens were observed by Remote Operated Vehicles (ROV) during exploratory drilling surveys for hydrocarbons at 1,883 and 2,294 m depth. These are the first observations of specimens of Magnapinna in the Southern Caribbean.
Resumen
La primera observación del calamar Magnapinna sp. en el caribe sur colombiano. Dos especímenes de calamares de aleta grande fueron observados con submarino de operación remota (ROV) durante un proyecto de perforación exploratoria de hidrocaburos a profundidades de 1,883 y de 2,294 m, respectivamente. Estas son las primeras observaciones de especímenes de Magnapinna en el Caribe Sur.
["Magnapinna"]

Spider assemblages associated with different crop stages of irrigated rice agroecosystems from eastern Uruguay
The rice crop and associated ecosystems constitute a rich mosaic of habitats that preserve a rich biological diversity. Spiders are an abundant and successful group of natural predators that are considered efficient in the biocontrol of the major insect pests in agroecosystems. Spider diversity in different stages of the rice crop growth from eastern Uruguay was analysed. Field study was developed on six rice farms with rotation system with pasture, installed during intercropping stage as cover crop. Six rice crops distributed in three locations were sampled with pitfall and entomological vaccum suction machine. Sixteen families, representing six guilds, were collected. Lycosidae, Linyphiidae, Anyphaenidae and Tetragnathidae were the most abundant families (26%, 25%, 20% and 12%, respectively) and comprised more than 80% of total abundance. Other hunters (29%), sheet web weavers (25%) and ground hunters (24%) were the most abundant guilds. Species composition along different crop stages was significantly different according to the ANOSIM test. The results showed higher spider abundance and diversity along the crop and intercrop stages. This study represents the first contribution to the knowledge of spider diversity associated with rice agroecosystem in the country.
["Agroecology"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Study of Mite Species"]

The orthopterans of the rice agroecosystem in western Lomellina (Lombardy, Italy)
Rice fields represent a valuable surrogate habitat for many wetland species, playing an important role for biodiversity conservation in human-managed landscapes. Despite the fact that several taxonomic groups have been thoroughly investigated in this agroecosystem, little is known about the orthopteran fauna which lives in and around rice paddies, especially in Europe. In this paper, we provide a first description of the orthopteran assemblages hosted in the rice agroecosystems of northern Italy, trying to evaluate their conservation value through an analysis of species ecological traits (habitat specificity and dispersal capacity). During field samplings in summer 2016, we detected 25 orthopteran species. The 24% of the community was composed by habitat specialist species and the 56% of the sampled taxa was characterised by high dispersal capacities. Rice fields are an extremely dynamic ecosystem, characterised by the continuous succession of flooding and drying periods and conditioned by many other farming activities. Consequently, the orthopteran fauna in rice crops is mainly composed of species well adapted to sudden environmental changes. On the other hand, rice fields represent a particular biotope, providing a suitable habitat especially for hygrophilous species, which are otherwise restricted to scattered marsh areas. In order to preserve orthopteran diversity in rice agroecosystems, sustainable farming practices should be applied, especially by preserving and restoring marginal semi-natural habitats, by reducing grass management intensity on paddy banks and by discouraging rice cultivation in dry soils.
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

New European records of Ditomyia macroptera Winnertz (Diptera: Ditomyiidae) with notes on its distribution
Ditomyia macroptera Winnertz, the rarest European ditomyiid fly, is known only by a few specimens across the collections. Besides a single male specimen from Sakhalin Island, all other documented records are from Central Europe.New records of Ditomyia macroptera Winnertz from Bulgaria and France are presented representing the second rearing event after its initial description. Illustrations of the general facies and male terminalia are given. The study of old collection material reveals exclusion of the species from the Belgian list and allows us to discuss the origin of two specimens in the collection of C.R. Osten-Sacken in St. Petersburg, Russia.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies"]

New record of the pentatomine stink bug species Caystrus orientalis Zhang and Lin (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) from Japan
To date, the stink bug species Caystrus orientalis Zhang and Lin, 1985, was known to occur only in China.A species known as “Caystrus sp.” and “Neodinus sp.” in Japan has been identified as C. orientalis, which has been recorded from Japan for the first time.
["Caystrini"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Research on scale insects"]

Ceraphron krogmanni (Hymenoptera: Ceraphronidae), a new species from Lower Saxony with unusual male genitalia
["Ceraphron"]

A new western Canadian record of Epeoloides pilosulus (Cresson), with discussion of ecological associations, distribution and conservation status in Canada
["oil bee"]

Dispatch from the field II: the mystery of the red and blue Opadometa male (Araneae, Tetragnathidae, Opadometa sarawakensis)

The Manú Gradient as a study system for bird pollination
["Hummingbirds"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean"]

A survey of beetles (Coleoptera) from the tundra surrounding the Nunalleq archaeological site, Quinhagak, southwestern Alaska
This paper presents the results of a survey of beetles conducted in the vicinity of the archaeological site of Nunalleq, a pre-contact (16th-17th century AD) indigenous forager settlement located near the modern Yup’ik village of Quinhagak, in the Yukon-Kuskokwim delta, southwestern Alaska. Records and habitat data are reported for 74 beetle taxa collected in tundra, riparian, aquatic and anthropogenic environments from a region of Alaska that has been poorly studied by entomologists. This includes the first mainland Alaskan record for the byrrhid Simplocaria metallica (Sturm). Beyond improving our knowledge of the local beetle fauna’s diversity and ecology, this survey provides the basis for comparisons between modern and sub-fossil beetle assemblages from Nunalleq and Quinhagak.
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

Eleven remarkable Diptera species, emerged from fallen aspens in Kivach Nature Reserve, Russian Karelia
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

Revision of the Mesoamerican species of Calolydella Townsend (Diptera: Tachinidae) and description of twenty-three new species reared from caterpillars in Area de Conservación Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica
["Blondeliini"]

A second contender for “world’s smallest fly” (Diptera: Phoridae)
["tropical"]
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

The communities of terrestrial macrofungi in different forest types in vicinities of Khanty-Mansiysk (middle taiga zone of West Siberia)
["Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

Polychaetes of Greece: an updated and annotated checklist
["Eastern Mediterranean"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy"]

Standardized spider (Arachnida, Araneae) inventory of Hankoniemi, Finland
["arthropoda"]

On the absence of the Green-tailed Trainbearer Lesbia nuna (Trochilidae) from Venezuela: an analysis based on environmental niche modelling
["Lesbia nuna gouldii"]

Three new minute leaf litter beetles discovered by citizen scientists in Maliau Basin, Malaysian Borneo (Coleoptera: Leiodidae, Chrysomelidae)
["Leiodinae"]

A new species of Voria Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica
["caterpillar"]

First observations on the life cycle and mass eclosion events in a mantis fly (Family Mantispidae) in the subfamily Drepanicinae
["mantis flies"]

Understory dominance and the new climax: Impacts of Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) invasion on native plant diversity and recruitment in a riparian woodland
Riparian forests exhibit levels of ecological disturbance that leave them especially prone to biological invasions. Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is particularly suited to these habitats and is an aggressive invader along watercourses throughout its now-global range as an exotic invader. Using one of the few Silver Maple Floodplain Forest communities that has not been invaded by F. japonica in the West Branch Susquehanna River valley (Pennsylvania, USA) as a baseline, this study examines whether and how this primarily intact riparian forest community differs from nearby invaded communities in terms of 1) native species richness, 2) native species density, and 3) riparian forest tree recruitment. Defining a baseline (intact) community composition will inform restoration plans for local riparian forests where knotweed might be eradicated or reduced. Invaded and non-invaded sites differed statistically across species richness, species density, and tree recruitment. Our results suggest that F. japonica has reduced the diversity and abundance of native understory riparian plant species. The species also appears to have suppressed long-term tree recruitment, setting up a trajectory whereby the eventual decline of trees currently in the canopy could shift this community from a tree-dominated riparian forest to a knotweed-dominated herbaceous shrubland.
["Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Species conservation profile of the rare and endemic trapdoor spider Calathotarsus simoni (Araneae, Migidae) from Central Argentina

Corrigendum to «Contrasting morphology with molecular data: an approach to revision of species complexes based on the example of European (Cyprinidae)» by Palandačić et al. 2017
This corrigendum, in the sense of the Glossary of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN 1999, p. 102), is to ensure that the ICZN criteria for the availability of the two new nomenclatural acts, namely the designations of the neotype of Phoxinus csikii Hankó, 1922 and the lectotype of Phoxinus marsilii Heckel, 1836, are satisfied.
["nomenclatural acts"]
["Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

The bee family Halictidae (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) from Central Asia collected by the Kyushu and Shimane Universities Expeditions

Taxonomy and Biogeography without frontiers – WhatsApp, Facebook and smartphone digital photography let citizen scientists in more remote localities step out of the dark
["Citizen Science"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Structure and tree species composition in different habitats of savanna used by indigenous people in the Northern Brazilian Amazon
["Floristic survey"]
["Amazonian Archaeology and Ethnohistory", "Plant and animal studies", "African Botany and Ecology Studies"]

Incidence of pests and viral disease on pepino (Solanum muricatum Ait.) in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
["insects"]
["Plant Virus Research Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research"]

Megafauna of the UKSRL exploration contract area and eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean: Annelida, Arthropoda, Bryozoa, Chordata, Ctenophora, Mollusca
["deep-sea mining"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Specimen records of spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) by monthly census for 3 years in forest areas of Yakushima Island, Japan

Long-term monitoring of diversity and structure of two stands of an Atlantic Tropical Forest
["Long-term monitoring"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Forest ecology and management", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Five new species of Vibrissina Rondani (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in Northwestern Costa Rica

NGS-based biodiversity and community structure analysis of meiofaunal eukaryotes in shell sand from Hållö island, Smögen, and soft mud from Gullmarn Fjord, Sweden
Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the biodiversity and community structure of Swedish meiofaunal eukaryotes using metabarcoding. To validate the reliability of the metabarcoding approach, we compare the taxonomic resolution obtained using the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 (COI) ‘mini-barcode’ and nuclear 18S small ribosomal subunit (18S) V1-V2 region, with traditional morphology-based identification of Xenacoelomorpha and Nematoda.
Location: 30 samples were analysed from two ecologically distinct locations along the west coast of Sweden. 18 replicate samples of coarse shell sand were collected along the north-eastern side of Hållö island near Smögen, while 12 replicate samples of soft mud were collected in the Gullmarn Fjord near Lysekil.
Methods: Meiofauna was extracted using flotation and siphoning methods. Both COI and 18S regions were amplified from total DNA samples using Metazoan specific primers and subsequently sequenced using Illumina MiSeq, producing in total 24 132 875 paired-end reads of 300 bp in length, of which 15 883 274 COI reads and 8 249 601 18S reads. These were quality filtered resulting in 7 954 017 COI sequences and 890 370 18S sequences, clustered into 2805 and 1472 representative OTUs respectively, yielding 190 metazoan OTUs for COI and 121 metazoan OTUs for 18S using a 97% sequence similarity threshold.
Results: The Metazoan fraction represents 7% of the total dataset for COI (190 OTUs) and 8% of sequences for 18S (121 OTUs). Annelida (30% of COI metazoan OTUs and 23.97% of 18S metazoan OTUs) and Arthropoda (27.37% of COI metazoan OTUs and 11.57% of 18S metazoan OTUs), were the most OTU rich phyla identified in all samples combined. As well as Annelida and Arthropoda, other OTU rich phyla represented in our samples include Mollusca, Platyhelminthes and Nematoda. In total, 213 COI OTUs and 243 18S OTUs were identified to species using a 97% sequence similarity threshold, revealing some non-native species and highlighting the potential of metabarcoding for biological recording. Taxonomic community composition shows as expected clear differentiation between the two habitat types (soft mud versus coarse shell sand), and diversity observed varies according to choice of meiofaunal sampling method and primer pair used.
["Meiofaunal biodiversity"]

Megafauna of the UKSRL exploration contract area and eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the Pacific Ocean: Echinodermata
This paper gives the reader a chance to experience, or revisit, PHOS16: a conference on the History and Philosophy of Open Science. In the winter of 2016, we invited a varied international group to engage with these topics at the University of Helsinki, Finland. Our aim was a critical assessment of the defining features, underlying narratives, and overall objectives of the contemporary open science movement. The event brought together contemporary open science scholars, publishers, and advocates to discuss the philosophical foundations and historical roots of openness in academic research. The eight sessions combined historical views with more contemporary perspectives on topics such as transparency, reproducibility, collaboration, publishing, peer review, research ethics, as well as societal impact and engagement. We gathered together expert panelists and 15 invited speakers who have published extensively on these topics, which allowed us to engage in a thorough and multifaceted discussion. Together with our involved audience we charted the role and foundations of openness of research in our time, considered the accumulation and dissemination of scientific knowledge, and debated the various technical, legal, and ethical challenges of the past and present. In this article, we provide an overview of the topics covered at the conference as well as individual video interviews with each speaker. In addition to this, all the talks were recorded and they are offered here as an openly licensed community resource in both video and audio form.
["deep-sea mining"]
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Echinoderm biology and ecology"]

New species records of Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) for the state of Rondônia in Brazilian Amazon
["Rond\u00f4nia State"]
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Animal Disease Management and Epidemiology"]

New record of Castanopsides falkovitshi Kerzhner from Korea (Heteroptera: Miridae: Mirinae: Mirini)
["Miridae"]

On the diversity and richness of understory bryophytes at Nectandra Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica
["Tropical bryophytes"]
["Bryophyte Studies and Records", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

Nine new species of Uramya Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica, with a key to their identification
["tropical rain forest"]

New and poorly known Palaearctic fungus gnats (Diptera, Sciaroidea)
["boreal zone"]

Behavioural notes and attraction on Lepidoptera around the Gehry's Biodiversity Museum (Causeway, Calzada de Amador, Panamá, República de Panamá)
This work represents a study of the diversity of Lepidoptera on the Gehry's Biodiversity Museum (MBG), in an attempt to generate a list of the diversity of butterflies and moths visiting the coastal ecosystem of the Causeway, Amador. Collection of insects was performed manually, over a period of ten months (June 16, 2014 to March 18, 2015) and photographic records of the behavior of other species preying on Lepidoptera were also included. A total of 326 specimens, representing 13 families were collected. These included 6 butterfly and 8 moth families and 52 genera, and 60 species. This study represents a contribution to the knowledge of species that frequent the area, and encourages the conservation and development of the Calzada de Amador as an important touristic site in the city of Panama.
["Richness of species"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

New evidence shows that Pocillopora ‘damicornis-like’ corals in Singapore are actually Pocillopora acuta (Scleractinia: Pocilloporidae)
Molecular sequence data have previously revealed the existence of cryptic species associated with the Pocillopora ‘damicornis-like’ coral. Recently, this species complex has been reclassified into three species including the resurrected P. acuta, which appears to have a wide distribution. Morphological characteristics described for P. acuta are present in corals previously identified as Pocillopora damicornis. To determine if the Pocillopora ‘damicornis-like’ colonies on Singapore’s reefs are P. acuta, P. damicornis, or both, we examined a new collection of Pocillopora using mitochondrial DNA data and morphology. We also compared specimen morphologies from past collections and examined the known regional distributions of both species. Our analyses show that most Pocillopora ‘damicornis-like’ corals in Singapore are P. acuta instead of P. damicornis. Findings here are important for coral diversity records in Singapore and will help clarify distributional limits of morphologically similar Pocillopora species.
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Three new species of entimine weevils in Early Miocene amber from the Dominican Republic (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
["Concept taxonomy"]

Report of Platythomisus octomaculatus (C. L. Koch, 1845) and Platythomisus sudeepi Biswas, 1977 from India (Araneae, Thomisidae)
["Crab spider"]

Baby Killers: Documentation and Evolution of Scuttle Fly (Diptera: Phoridae) Parasitism of Ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Brood
["tropical"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Species conservation profile of the stenoendemic cave spider Pimoa delphinica (Araneae, Pimoidae) from the Varaita valley (NW-Italy)
Pimoa delphinica Mammola, Hormiga & Isaia, 2016 is a troglophile araneoid spider endemic of the high Varaita valley (Western Alps, Province of Cuneo, NW Italy). In spite of relatively intense field research and examination of museum collections, the species is restricted to ten localities, thus showing a reduced extent of occurrence (EOO; 26 km2) and area of occupancy (AOO; 12 km2). Although the habitat and the subpopulations of P. delphinica are not currently threatened, the species is potentially exposed due to its extremely narrow geographic distribution range, subdivision in subpopulations and low dispersal capacity.
["Western Alps"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

Salix transect of Europe: structured genetic variation and isolation-by-distance in the nettle psyllid, Trioza urticae (Psylloidea, Hemiptera), from Greece to Arctic Norway
["Plant and animal studies", "Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance"]

Arthropod and oligochaete assemblages from grasslands of the southern Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
["metagenomics"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Microbial Community Ecology and Physiology"]

The first data on the freshwater microcrustaceans of Shokalsky Island (Russian Arctic)
["Cladocera"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Diatoms and Algae Research", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Parasitism of Hymenoepimecis manauara Pádua & Oliveira (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Pimplinae) on Leucauge henryi Mello-Leitão (Araneae: Tetragnathidae) in Brazilian Amazonian
["Cocoon web"]

Pteroceraphron Dessart new to the USA (Hymenoptera: Ceraphronoidea)
["Ceraphronidae"]

Rearing and observation of immature stages of the hoverfly Microdon katsurai (Diptera, Syrphidae)
["Hover fly"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

First description of the sexuals of Camponotus opaciventris Mayr, 1879 (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), with notes on distribution in Western Himalaya
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Dung beetle (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea) assemblages in the western Italian Alps: benchmark data for land use monitoring
["Dung beetles"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Two new records of palm species for Gabon: Sclerosperma profizianum Valk. & Sunder. and Eremospatha quiquecostulata Becc.
["Arecaceae"]
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Oil Palm Production and Sustainability"]

Discovery of a New World ladybird beetle Nephaspis indus Gordon, 1996 (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae: Scymnini) on the Island of Taiwan
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

First detection of the adventive large rove beetle Ocypus nitens (Schrank) in Canada and an update of its Nearctic distribution using data generated by the public
The adventive rove beetle Ocypus nitens (Staphylinidae: Staphylininae) is newly recorded in Canada (Ontario) and the state of Vermont, and additional range expansion is documented. The updated distribution of this large, conspicuous species is based mostly on data from digital photographs posted by users of the online community BugGuide. All available data are summarized and made available as a DarwinCore dataset, and an updated distribution map is provided. Citizen-generated distributional data continues to be a valuable ally in the detection of adventive insects and the study of their distributional dynamics.
["faunistics"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Macrobenthic molluscs from a marine - lagoonal environmental transition in Lesvos Island (Greece)
["Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and environmental studies", "Isotope Analysis in Ecology"]

Environmental variability and heavy metal concentrations from five lagoons in the Ionian Sea (Amvrakikos Gulf, W Greece)
["environmental variables"]
["Heavy metals in environment", "Marine and coastal ecosystems", "Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology"]

ReefMedMol: Mollusca from the infralittoral rocky shores - the biocoenosis of photophilic algae - in the Mediterranean Sea
["Infralittoral zone"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine and coastal plant biology"]

Digging for historical data on the occurrence of benthic macrofaunal species in the southeastern Mediterranean
["marine biodiversity"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology"]

Macrofaunal assemblages associated with the sponge Sarcotragus foetidus Schmidt, 1862 (Porifera: Demospongiae) at the coasts of Cyprus and Greece
["Sarcotragus foetidus"]
["Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

New distribution records of the savanna specialist fungus-farming ant Cyatta Sosa-Calvo et al. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Myrmicinae)
["Attini"]

Discontinuous color variation in the assassin bug species Tiarodes miyamotoi (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Reduviinae)

Species conservation profile of the alpine stenoendemic spider Vesubia jugorum (Araneae, Lycosidae) from the Maritime Alps
Vesubia jugorum (Simon, 1881) (Araneae: Lycosidae) is a large-sized wolf spider that occurs in alpine rocky areas above 2,000 m altitude. The species is stenoendemic, with a limited number of populations documented in the literature from the Maritime Alps (Italy, France). Due to the climate change, the current observed extent of occurrence (EEO 4,412 km2) and the area of occupancy (AOO 835 km2) are declining.
["Climate Change"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

A Bioacoustic Record of a Conservancy in the Mount Kenya Ecosystem
["Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation"]

Salix transect of Europe: patterns in the most abundant chrysomelid beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) herbivores of willow from Greece to Arctic Norway
["Salicophagy"]

Salix transect of Europe: variation in ploidy and genome size in willow-associated common nettle, Urtica dioica L. sens. lat., from Greece to arctic Norway
["megatransect"]
["Yeasts and Rust Fungi Studies", "Botanical Studies and Applications", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

First record of the monotypic genus Acanopsilus Kieffer, 1908 (Hymenoptera: Diaprioidea: Diapriidae) from the Eastern Palaearctic region
["Acanopsilus"]

AxIOM: Amphipod crustaceans from insular Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows
["Marine and coastal plant biology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Species conservation profile of the cave spider Turinyphia cavernicola (Araneae, Linyphiidae) from Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal
Turinyphia cavernicola Wunderlich, 2008 is one of the two endemic cavernicolous spiders known from the Azorean archipelago (Portugal). In spite of relatively intensive searches, this species is known from only three caves, but with a single sustainable subpopulation restricted to the Algar do Carvão show cave. With an observed extent of occurrence (EOO) of 2 km² and an area of occupancy (AOO) around 0,75 km², it presents a restricted range, severe fragmentation, and continuing decline in EOO, AOO, habitat quality, number of locations and subpopulations caused by the ongoing threat from pasture intensification and tourist activities in the cave systems.
["Cave species"]

A new spider species, Heser stoevi sp. nov., from Turkmenistan (Araneae: Gnaphosidae)

First report of Cheiloneurus exitiosus (Perkins, 1906) and Helegonatopus dimorphus (Hoffer, 1954) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) from Japan, with remarks on their abundance in rice paddies
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Plant and animal studies", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Aquatic Insects from the Caatinga: checklists and diversity assessments of Ubajara (Ceará State) and Sete Cidades (Piauí State) National Parks, Northeastern Brazil
["Species richness"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Fish biology, ecology, and behavior"]

First Canadian record of the water mite Thermacarus nevadensis Marshall, 1928 (Arachnida: Acariformes: Hydrachnidiae: Thermacaridae) from hot springs in British Columbia
["Hot springs"]
["Study of Mite Species", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

A taxonomic monograph of the assassin bug genus Zelus Fabricius (Hemiptera: Reduviidae): 71 species based on 10,000 specimens
The New World assassin bug genus Zelus Fabricius, 1803 (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae: Harpactorini) is revised based on more than 10,000 specimens. Seventy-one species are recognized and twenty-four described as new: Zelus aithaleos sp. n., Zelus amblycephalus sp. n., Zelus antiguensis sp. n., Zelus auralanus sp. n., Zelus bahiaensis sp. n., Zelus banksi sp. n., Zelus casii sp. n., Zelus championi sp. n., Zelus cordazulus sp. n., Zelus fuliginatus sp. n., Zelus gilboventris sp. n., Zelus gracilipes sp. n., Zelus grandoculus sp. n., Zelus kartaboides sp. n., Zelus lewisi sp. n., Zelus panamensis sp. n., Zelus paracephalus sp. n., Zelus rosulentus sp. n., Zelus russulumus sp. n., Zelus spatulosus sp. n., Zelus truxali sp. n., Zelus umbraculoides sp. n., Zelus umbraculus sp. n., and Zelus xouthos sp. n. Five species, Zelus araneiformis Haviland, 1931, Zelus gradarius Bergroth, 1905, Zelus modestus (Stål, 1862), Zelus subfasciatus Stål, 1860 and Zelus vittaticeps Stål, 1866, are removed from Zelus and placed incertae sedis within Harpactorini. Nine new synonyms are recognized (senior synonym in parentheses): Zelus atripes Champion, 1898 syn. nov. (=Zelus conjungens [Stål, 1860]), Zelus dispar Fabricius, 1803 syn. nov. (=Zelus pedestris Fabricius, 1803), Zelus formosus Haviland, 1931 syn. nov. (=Zelus laticornis Herrich-Schaeffer, 1853), Zelus obscuridorsis (Stål, 1860) syn. nov. (=Zelus pedestris), Zelus pallidinervus Haviland, 1931 syn. nov. (=Zelus kartabensis Haviland, 1931), Zelus personatus Berg, 1879 syn. nov. (=Zelus versicolor Herrich-Schaeffer, 1848), Zelus trimaculatus Champion, 1898 syn. nov. (=Zelus means Fabricius, 1803), Zelus trimaculicollis (Stål, 1855) syn. nov. (=Zelus means), and Zelus tristis Haviland, 1931 syn. nov. (=Zelus laticornis). Zelus conjungens (Stål, 1860) stat. rev. Is resurrected from junior synonymy with zealous armillatus (Lepeletier & Seville, 1825). Zelus ambulans Stål, 1862 stat. rev. and Zelus cognatus (Costa, 1862) stat. rev. are resurrected from synonymy with Zelus exsanguis Stål, 1862. Iquitozelus Bérenger syn. nov. is synonymized with Zelus and its only species transferred to Zelus, hence resulting in a new combination, Zelus couturieri (Bérenger, 2003) comb. nov. Lectotypes, paralectotypes or neotypes are designated for a number of species. Habitus images, illustrations of male genitalia, distribution maps and measurements are provided for nearly all species. The three previously recognized subgenera of Zelus are found to be based upon superficial characters and these divisions do not reflect natural groupings. Using sets of characters, especially those of the male genitalia, eleven species groups are proposed. It is also hypothesized that Zelus is closely related to three other New World genera: Atopozelus Elkins, Ischnoclopius Stål and an undescribed genus "Hartzelus" [manuscript name]. Zelus is endemic to the New World, occurring naturally in the Caribbean and all but one of the continental countries, with introductions to Pacific islands, Europe and Chile.
["Harpactorinae"]

Abyssal fauna of the UK-1 polymetallic nodule exploration area, Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean: Cnidaria
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Taxonomic revision of Stigmatomma Roger (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in the Malagasy region
In this study we present the first taxonomic revision of the ant genus Stigmatomma in the Malagasy biogeographic region, re­describe the previously known S. besucheti Baroni-Urbani, and describe seven new species to science (S. bolabola sp. n., S. irayhady sp. n., S. janovitsika sp. n., S. liebe sp. n., S. roahady sp. n., S. sakalava sp. n., and S. tsyhady sp. n.). The revision is based on the worker caste, but we provide brief descriptions of gynes and males for some species. Species descriptions, diagnosis, character discussion, identiﬁcation key, and glossary are illustrated with 360 high-quality montage and SEM images. The distribution of Stigmatomma species in Madagascar are mapped and discussed within the context of the island’s biomes and ecoregions. We also discuss how some morphometric variables describe the diﬀerences among the species in the bioregion. Open science is supported by providing access to R scripts, raw measurement data, and all specimen data used. All specimens used in this study were given unique identifies, and holotypes were imaged. Specimens and images are made accessible on AntWeb.org.
["Malagasy bioregion"]

The "Martian" flora: new collections of vascular plants, lichens, fungi, algae, and cyanobacteria from the Mars Desert Research Station, Utah
The Mars Desert Research Station is a Mars analog research site located in the desert outside of Hanksville, Utah, U.S.A. Here we present a preliminary checklist of the vascular plant and lichen flora for the station, based on collections made primarily during a two-week simulated Mars mission in November, 2014. Additionally, we present notes on the endolithic chlorophytes and cyanobacteria, and the identification of a fungal genus also based on these collections. Altogether, we recorded 38 vascular plant species from 14 families, 13 lichen species from seven families, six algae taxa including both chlorophytes and cyanobacteria, and one fungal genus from the station and surrounding area. We discuss this floristic diversity in the context of the ecology of the nearby San Rafael Swell and the desert areas of Wayne and Emery counties in southeastern Utah.
["Analog Research"]
["Lichen and fungal ecology", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology", "Polar Research and Ecology"]

Deep-water bivalve mollusks collected during the TALUD XV cruise off the west coast of the southern Baja California Peninsula, Mexico
["Mollusks"]

An annotated checklist of the Chilopoda and Diplopoda (Myriapoda) of the Abrau Peninsula, northwestern Caucasus, Russia
["Myriapoda"]
["Collembola Taxonomy and Ecology Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

New records of Gerromorpha and Nepomorpha (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera) from South America

The Shiny Cowbird, Molothrus bonariensis (Gmelin, 1789) (Aves: Icteridae), at 2,800 m asl in Quito, Ecuador
["Brood parasite"]
["Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Avian ecology and behavior", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

First report of the genus Phytodietus Gravenhorst, 1829 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Tryphoninae) from Thailand
["Ichneumonidae"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Plant and animal studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution"]

Macro-invertebrate Biodiversity of a Coastal Prairie with Vernal Pool Habitat
["biological diversity"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics"]

A new species of Phosocephala Townsend, 1908 (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica
["Tachininae"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior"]

Two new species of Erythromelana Townsend, 1919 (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica

Rediscovery and redescription of Centrodora damoni (Girault) (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) from Australia, an egg parasitoid of Gonipterus spp (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), after nearly a century
["egg parasitoid"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Checklist of Serengeti Ecosystem Grasses
We present the first taxonomic checklist of the Poaceae species of the Serengeti, Tanzania. A review of the literature and herbarium specimens recorded 200 species of grasses, in line with similar studies in other parts of East Africa. The checklist is supported by a total of 939 herbarium collections. Full georeferenced collection data is made available alongside a summary checklist in pdf format. More than a quarter of the species are known from a single collection highlighting the need for further research, especially concerning the rare species and their distribution.
["Tanzania"]
["Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics", "Rangeland Management and Livestock Ecology", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

First record of Phanuropsis laniger Johnson in Brazil and first record of P. semiflaviventris Girault in Amazonas (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) with notes of their hosts, stink-bugs of cupuaçu
["Antiteuchus"]

Survey of the ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of the Greek Thrace

Studies in Hawaiian Diptera III: New Distributional Records for Canacidae and a New Endemic Species of Procanace
The distributions of Hawaiian Canacidae, comprising nearly 800 individual collection events, are reviewed and a total of four new island records are reported. These include Canaceoides angulatus from Kahoolawae and Procanace bifurcata from Molokai and Maui, and Procanace constricta from Oahu. A new species from Kauai, Procanace hardyi O'Grady and Pak, is described. This species is closely related to P. constricta from Oahu, Maui, Molokai and Hawaii and shares a similar constriction of the abdomen between tergites four and five but differs in the configuration of the seventh abdominal tergite. Detailed distribution maps for all species are included.
["Hawaii"]

A new species of inseminating seasonal killifish of the Cynopoecilus melanotaenia complex from southern Brazil (Cyprinodontiformes: Rivulidae)
["Aplocheiloid killifishes"]

The ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) of the Strandzha Mountain and adjacent coastal territories (Bulgaria and Turkey)
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Ctenosciara alexanderkoenigi sp. n. (Diptera: Sciaridae), an exotic invader in Germany?
A new species of the genus Ctenosciara Tuomikoski, 1960 is here described based upon a single specimen, obtained from collectings in the garden at Museum Alexander Koenig in Bonn. Ctenosciara alexanderkoenigi sp. n. differs from all other congeneric European species by its striking coloration and distinct male genitalia. However, DNA barcoding reveals associations with two specimens from New Zealand. Therefore a recent migration of Ctenosciara species from the Australasian Region, the likely center of origin of the genus, is discussed. A key to the European species of Ctenosciara is provided. Barcoding results reveale that Ctenosciara exigua is not clearly distinguished from Ctenosciara hyalipennis by its COI sequence (both share the same BIN BOLD:AAH3983) and that its species status may be questionable.
["Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Study of Mite Species", "Insects and Parasite Interactions"]

First records of Pseudodoros nigricollis Becker (Diptera: Syrphidae) from Cyprus
["Hyalopterus pruni"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

First record of the thread-legged assassin bug Myiophanes greeni Distant, 1903 (Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae) from India
["Reduviidae"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy"]

Review of the Palaearctic (and Oriental) Allurus (Braconidae, Euphorinae) based on material from Sweden

New findings of the butterfly Phengaris teleius at the border between Hungary and Serbia (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)
["Nature conservation"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies"]

Two new species of Prionomastix Mayr (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) with a key to Indian species

Biological richness of a large urban cemetery in Berlin. Results of a multi-taxon approach
["bats"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Lichen and fungal ecology", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Redescription of the little-known grasshopper Willemsella (Acrididae, Hemiacridinae) from Peninsular Malaysia
["Orthoptera Research and Taxonomy", "Plant Parasitism and Resistance", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

The Genus Criodion (Audinet-Serville, 1833) (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae): First Record for Panama
["Sphallotrichina"]

Rotifers and lower crustaceans from South-western Iceland
["Rotifera"]
["Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Marine and environmental studies", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

New distributional data on ascidian fauna (Tunicata: Ascidiacea) from Mandapam coast, Gulf of Mannar, India
["Ascidian"]
["Marine Ecology and Invasive Species", "Marine Sponges and Natural Products", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Checklist of aquatic and marshy Monocotyledons from the Araguaia River basin, Brazilian Cerrado
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Vegetation and floristics of a lowland tropical rainforest in northeast Australia
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Pasture and Agricultural Systems", "Fern and Epiphyte Biology"]

New records of Sylvicola (Diptera: Anisopodidae) from Romania
["identification key"]

Two new bee-killing flies from Brazil (Insecta: Diptera: Phoridae: Melaloncha)
["Phoridae"]
["Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Snake richness in urban forest fragments from Niterói and surroundings, state of Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil
["Urban Inventory"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Animal and Plant Science Education"]

The Meristogram: a neglected tool for acanthocephalan systematics
["Echinorhynchus bothniensis"]
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Crustacean biology and ecology", "Planarian Biology and Electrostimulation"]

Abyssal fauna of the UK-1 polymetallic nodule exploration claim, Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean: Echinodermata
We present data from a DNA taxonomy register of the abyssal benthic Echinodermata collected as part of the Abyssal Baseline (ABYSSLINE) environmental survey cruise ‘AB01’ to the UK Seabed Resources Ltd (UKSRL) polymetallic-nodule exploration claim ‘UK-1’ in the eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), central Pacific Ocean abyssal plain. Morphological and genetic data are presented for 17 species (4 Asteroidea, 4 Crinoidea, 2 Holothuroidea and 7 Ophiuroidea) identified by a combination of morphological and genetic data. No taxa matched previously published genetic sequences, but 8 taxa could be assigned to previously-described species based on morphology, although here we have used a precautionary approach in taxon assignments to avoid over-estimating species ranges. The Clarion-Clipperton Zone is a region undergoing intense exploration for potential deep-sea mineral extraction. We present these data to facilitate future taxonomic and environmental impact study by making both data and voucher materials available through curated and accessible biological collections.
["Abyssal zone", "CLARION", "Fauna", "Geology", "Oceanography", "Pacific ocean", "Incertae sedis", "Paleontology", "Ecology", "Biology"]
["Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

New records of Trichoceridae (Diptera) from the island of Mallorca ​
["Trichoceridae"]

New and poorly known Holarctic species of Boletina Staeger, 1840 (Diptera, Mycetophilidae)
["Boreal zone"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Spider diversity (Arachnida: Araneae) in Atlantic Forest areas at Pedra Branca State Park, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
["Survey"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology"]

First report of Tequus schrottkyi (Konow) (Hymenoptera: Pergidae) in Uruguay, and information about its host plant and biology
["Tequus schrottkyi"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Plant Toxicity and Pharmacological Properties", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Records of larentiine moths (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) collected at the Station Linné in Sweden
["Alvar"]
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Insect Pheromone Research and Control", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Nine new species of Itaplectops (Diptera: Tachinidae) reared from caterpillars in Area de Conservación Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica, with a key to Itaplectops species
Nine new species of Itaplectops Townsend (Diptera: Tachinidae) are described from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), northwestern Costa Rica. All specimens have been reared from ­various species of ACG caterpillars in the families Limacodidae and Dalceridae. By combining morphological, photographic, and genetic barcode data we provide clear yet concise descriptions. The following nine new species are described in the genus Itaplectops: Itaplectops akselpalolai, Itaplectops anikenpalolae, Itaplectops argentifrons, Itaplectops aurifrons, Itaplectops ericpalolai, Itaplectops griseobasis, Itaplectops omissus, Itaplectops shellymcsweeneyae, Itaplectops tristanpalolai. We move Itaplectops to the tribe Uramyini from its original placement within the Blondeliini, and we discuss its systematic placement. We also provide a key differentiating the, genera of the tribe Uramyini as well as the known species of Itaplectops.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Two new species of Limbodessus diving beetles from New Guinea - short verbal descriptions flanked by online content (digital photography, μCT scans, drawings and DNA sequence data)

A review of the Anomaloninae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Anomaloninae) from the Ukrainian Carpathians
["Ichneumonidae"]

Description of a species of Fabaeformiscandona (Ostracoda, Crustacea) from Kushiro Marsh, Hokkaido, Japan, with the nearly complete mitochondrial genomic sequence
["Kushiro Marsh"]
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research"]

Three new Scandinavian species of Culicoides (Culicoides): C. boyi sp. nov., C. selandicus sp. nov. and C. kalix sp. nov. (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)
["Vector-Borne Animal Diseases", "Viral Infections and Vectors", "Animal Disease Management and Epidemiology"]

The larva and prepupa of Eupareophora exarmata (Thomson, 1871) (Hymenoptera, Tenthredinidae)
["Eupareophora exarmata"]

The spatiotemporal pattern of earthworm community in the grass savannas of Lamto (Ivory Coast)
["Earthworm community"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics", "Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Agriculture"]

Checklist of host plants of insect galls in the state of Goiás in the Midwest Region of Brazil

Description of Hoplolaimus bachlongviensis sp. n. (Nematoda: Hoplolaimidae) from banana soil in Vietnam
["bananas"]
["Nematode management and characterization studies", "Banana Cultivation and Research", "Entomopathogenic Microorganisms in Pest Control"]

New records of two endemic troglobitic and threatened arachnids (Amblypygi and Opiliones) from limestone caves of Minas Gerais state, southeast Brazil
["Charinus"]
["Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Turtle Biology and Conservation"]

First evidence of frugivory in Myotis (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae, Myotinae)
["Black Myotis"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife Ecology and Conservation", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies"]

The Giant Resin Bee, Megachile sculpturalis Smith: New Distributional Records for the Mid- and Gulf-south USA
["Callomegachile"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions"]

Salix transect of Europe: latitudinal patterns in willow diversity from Greece to arctic Norway
["Bioenergy crop production and management", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems"]

A new species of Neossos Malloch (Diptera: Heleomyzidae) from the Yukon Territory, Canada, and a revised key to the Nearctic species
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A checklist of the Ukrainian Xoridinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae)
The Ukrainian Xoridinae list containing 28 species is reviewed. Four species, Xorides flavotibialis Hilszczanski, 2000, X. hedwigi Clement, 1938, Xorides rufipes (Gravenhorst, 1829), and X. rusticus (Desvignes, 1856) are recorded in the Ukrainian fauna for the first time. Agrilus biguttatus F. is recorded as a host of Ischnoceros caligatus (Gravenhorst, 1829) for the first time.
["Parasitoids"]
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new species of Harpactea Bristowe, 1939 from Turkey (Araneae: Dysderidae)
A new species of Harpactea Bristowe, 1939, H. alanyana sp. n. is described from southern Turkey. The new species appears closely related to H. osellai Brignoli, 1978. Detailed description and illustrations of the new and related species are provided. The relationships of the two species are discussed.
["Alanya"]

Description of Aegialoalaimus bratteni sp. n. from Skagerrak and a review of the genus (Aegialoalaimidae, Nematoda incertae sedis)
["Aegialoalaimidae"]

New records of Orussus minutus Middlekauff, 1983 (Hymenoptera: Orussidae) represent a significant western range expansion
["Symphyta"]

A new species and new records of Molophilus Curtis, 1833 (Diptera: Limoniidae) from the Western Palaearctic Region
["Balkan mountain range"]

Range extension of Myotis midastactus​ (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) to Paraguay
["Myotis guaycuru"]

Three new species of Trigonospila Pokorny (Diptera: Tachinidae), from Area de Conservación Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica, with a key for their identification
We describe three new species of Trigonospila Pokorny (Tachinidae: Blondeliini) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), northwestern Costa Rica. All were reared from ­various species of ACG caterpillars during an ongoing inventory of caterpillars, their food plants and their parasitoids in dry forest, rain forest and cloud forest. By coupling morphology, photographic documentation, life history and molecular data, we provide a clear and concise description of each species. All species published as new, are known to be previously undescribed as a result of careful study of the genus by DMW. This study builds on the current knowledge of the genus by adding three new species to the current 7 described in the New World. Trigonospila edwinbermudezi sp. n., Trigonospila uniformis sp. n., and Trigonospila josemariamoragai sp. n. are all authored and described as new by Fleming and Wood, with a key to their identification. The authors also offer a new record and description of the previously unknown male of Trigonospila panamensis (Townsend), reared from ACG caterpillars.
["Trigonospila"]

New data on the rare Afrotropical scarab beetles Orphnus drumonti Frolov and Delopleurus naviauxi Frolov et Cambefort (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Orphninae and Scarabaeinae)
["Scarab beetles"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

Three new species of Ametadoria Townsend (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica
We describe three new species in the genus Ametadoria Townsend from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica. All three were reared from wild-caught Zygaenidae and Lacturidae caterpillars. We provide a concise description of each species using morphology, life history and molecular data, with photographic documentation. The new species are authored and described by Fleming and Wood: Ametadoria karolramosae sp. nov., Ametadoria leticiamartinezae sp. nov., and Ametadoria mauriciogurdiani sp. nov. The following are proposed by Wood as new synonyms of Ametadoria Townsend: Adidyma Townsend syn. nov., and Abolodoria Townsend syn. nov. The following new combinations occur as a result of these new synonymies: Ametadoria abdominalis (Townsend) comb. nov., Ametadoria austrina (Coquillett) comb. nov., Ametadoria humilis (Wulp) comb. nov., Ametadoria misella (Wulp) comb. nov. Ametadoria adversa (Townsend) is proposed as a junior synonym of ​Ametadoria unispinosa Townsend, syn. nov​.
["Ametadoria"]

Melampyrum sylvaticum as a pre-diapause host plant of the scarce fritillary (Euphydryas maturna) in Finland
["Euphydryas maturna"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant responses to elevated CO2", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

The Pteridaceae family diversity in Togo
["Pteridaceae"]
["Fern and Epiphyte Biology", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies"]

Across the Baltic: a new record for an enigmatic black scavenger fly, Zuskamira inexpectata (Pont, 1987) (Sepsidae) in Finland
Specimens of the enigmatic, monotypic European genus Zuskamira Pont, 1987 (Sepsidae) were initially collected only from the lower central Swedish provinces of Darlana, Uppland and Västmanland. However, the same species was subsequently found much more south in Lower-Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein although Germany is overall well sampled for sepsid flies. Here we report a further (longitudinal) range expansion based on new localities in Southern Finland. New localities for Finland and Sweden are here added and we discuss briefly the habitat requirements of the species.

Additions to the list of Finnish Bibionomorpha (Diptera, Nematocera)
A total of 12 gnat species are reported for the first time from Finland (3 Cecidomyiidae, 1 Keroplatidae, 8 Mycetophilidae), and the occurrence of Macrocera nigropicea Lundström in Finland is verified. All material was collected from the Finnish Lapland, mainly from the north boreal ecoregion. Two of the recorded species are likely to be pyrophilous, associated with forest fire sites. A photo of the ventral appendage of the gonocoxite of Brevicornu setigerum Zaitzev is provided for the first time. The male hypopygium of Mycetophila haruspica Plassmann is redescribed.
["Cecidomyiidae"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

Two new species of Scymnini (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) from Karnataka, India
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Research on scale insects", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

New records of Ichneumonidae (Hymenoptera) for the Italian fauna
New distributional records on 55 ichneumonids (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from Italy are provided. Of these, 47 species are new for Italy, including representatives of the subfamily Diacritinae and of the tribes Zimmeriini (Ichneumoninae) and Pseudorhyssini (Poemeniinae); six species are new for Sardinia, one for Sicily and one for the Italian mainland. The hitherto unknown female of Baranisobas hibericus Heinrich, 1972 (Ichneumoninae) is described.

Aristathlus imperatorius Bergroth, a newly recognized synonym of Reduvius iopterus Perty, with the new combination Aristathlus iopterus (Perty, 1834) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Harpactorinae) ​
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens"]

First record of Neoempheria Osten Sacken (Diptera, Mycetophilidae) biology in the Neotropical region, with associations between its larvae and fungi
["Immature"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insect behavior and control techniques", "Research on scale insects"]

Additions to the Encyrtidae and Mymaridae (Chalcidoidea) of India with new distribution and host records for some species
Background and aims. The Doryctinae is a considerably diverse, poorly studied group of parasitoid wasps and one of the most diverse subfamilies within Braconidae. Taxonomic knowledge of this group remains highly incomplete, specially in the tropics. In Mexico, it has been reported as the subfamily with the highest number of recorded genera. A preliminary Barcoding study carried out in the Chamela region, located near the Mexican pacific coast in Jalisco, identified 185 barcoding species of Dorytinae assigned to 19 identified doryctine genera. This work updates the later study, representing a three years effort to assess the species richness of this subfamily for the Chamela region.
Materials and methods. Ten collecting field trips of 5 to 10 days each were carried out from June 2009 to May 2011. A 2% divergence criterion using the BIN system implemented in BOLD was followed in order to establish species boundaries among the specimens that were collected.
Results and conclusions. A total of 961 specimens were collected, from which 883 COI sequences were obtained. The sequences generated corresponded to 289 barcoding species and 30 identified genera. The most speciose genera were Heterospilus Haliday (170 spp.), Ecphylus Förster (19 spp.), Allorhogas Gahan (15 spp.) and Callihormius Ashmead (14 spp.). Addition of previously collected material increased the diversity of the subfamily in the region to 34 genera and 290 species. Paraphyly of Heterospilus with respect to Neoheterospilus and Heterospathius was again recovered. Twenty new species and two new genera (Sabinita Belokobylskij, Zaldívar-Riverón et Martínez, Ficobolus Martínez, Belokobylskij et Zaldívar-Riverón) have been described so far from the material collected in this work.
["Encyrtidae", "Biology", "Host (biology)", "Zoology", "Botany", "Parasitoid", "Ecology"]

First record of Myotis albescens (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in French Guiana
["Geographic distribution"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

New data on recently described rodent species Paulina's Limestone Rat Saxatilomys paulinae Musser, Smith, Robinson & Lunde, 2005 (Mammalia: Rodentia)
["Rodent"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Bat Biology and Ecology Studies"]

DNA Barcoding of the parasitoid wasp subfamily Doryctinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) from Chamela, Mexico
Background and aims. The Doryctinae is a considerably diverse, poorly studied group of parasitoid wasps and one of the most diverse subfamilies within Braconidae. Taxonomic knowledge of this group remains highly incomplete, specially in the tropics. In Mexico, it has been reported as the subfamily with the highest number of recorded genera. A preliminary Barcoding study carried out in the Chamela region, located near the Mexican pacific coast in Jalisco, identified 185 barcoding species of Dorytinae assigned to 19 identified doryctine genera. This work updates the later study, representing a three years effort to assess the species richness of this subfamily for the Chamela region.
Materials and methods. Ten collecting field trips of 5 to 10 days each were carried out from June 2009 to May 2011. A 2% divergence criterion using the BIN system implemented in BOLD was followed in order to establish species boundaries among the specimens that were collected.
Results and conclusions. A total of 961 specimens were collected, from which 883 COI sequences were obtained. The sequences generated corresponded to 289 barcoding species and 30 identified genera. The most speciose genera were Heterospilus Haliday (170 spp.), Ecphylus Förster (19 spp.), Allorhogas Gahan (15 spp.) and Callihormius Ashmead (14 spp.). Addition of previously collected material increased the diversity of the subfamily in the region to 34 genera and 290 species. Paraphyly of Heterospilus with respect to Neoheterospilus and Heterospathius was again recovered. Twenty new species and two new genera (Sabinita Belokobylskij, Zaldívar-Riverón et Martínez, Ficobolus Martínez, Belokobylskij et Zaldívar-Riverón) have been described so far from the material collected in this work.
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

A new record of Potamanthellus caenoides Ulmer 1939 (Ephemeroptera: Neoephemereidae) from the southern Western Ghats of India
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Bumble Bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Bombus spp.) of Interior Alaska: Species Composition, Distribution, Seasonal Biology, and Parasites
["Bumble bees"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Plant and fungal interactions"]

A preliminary inventory of the catfishes of the lower Rio Nhamundá, Brazil (Ostariophysi, Siluriformes)
The Rio Nhamundá is a poorly-known clearwater river draining the southern Guiana Shield of Brazil. In this study we report the findings of a preliminary ichthyological survey, focusing on catfishes (Siluriformes). We identify a total of 36 species (31 genera, seven families) from the Nhamundá, including 11 species already recorded from the river. Overall, our survey results show that even rapid surveys can provide important information on Amazon fish biodiversity, suggesting potential new species, providing range extensions for nominal species, and additionally highlighting taxa in need of taxonomic revision and genetic study. As well as the traditional forms of data collected on biodiversity surveys (i.e. preserved specimen vouchers), our study also provides "new" types of data in the form of DNA barcodes and images of fishes exhibiting colouration in life, information that will be invaluable in future work addressing difficult groups.
O Rio Nhamundá é um rio de água clara, pouco conhecido, que drena parte do Escudo das Guianas em território brasileiro. Nesse estudo, nós reportamos os resultados de um levantamento ictiofaunístico preliminar dessa área, tendo como foco os bagres (Siluriformes). Nós identificamos um total de 36 espécies (31 gêneros, sete famílias) provenientes de nossa coleta, e adicionamos 11 espécies já conhecidas para o rio. De maneira geral, os resultados de nossa pesquisa mostram que mesmo levantamentos rápidos podem gerar informações importantes sobre a biodiversidade de peixes amazônicos, sugerindo potenciais espécies novas, ampliando a área de distribuição de espécies, além de apontar a necessidade de revisões taxonômicas e estudos genéticos para alguns taxa. Para além das formas tradicionais de dados coletados em pesquisas de biodiversidade (i.e. espécimes preservados), nosso estudo fornece "novas" formas de dados, como DNA barcodes e imagens com o padrão de coloração dos espécimes vivos, informações essas que serão de valor inestimável para futuros estudos que abordem grupos taxonômicos difíceis.

Luzonichthys seaver, a new species of Anthiinae (Perciformes, Serranidae) from Pohnpei, Micronesia
Luzonichthys seaver, n. sp., is described from two specimens, 42-46 mm standard length (SL) collected from Pohnpei, Micronesia. Collections were made by divers on mixed-gas closed-circuit rebreathers using hand nets at depths of 90-100 m. Luzonichthys seaver is distinct from all other species of the genus in the characters of lateral line scales, gill rakers, pelvic fin length, caudal concavity and coloration. Of the six species of Luzonichthys, it appears to be morphologically most similar to L. earlei and L. whitleyi.
["Serranidae"]

First record of Limnatis paluda (Hirudinida, Arhynchobdellida, Praobdellidae) from Kazakhstan, with comments on genetic diversity of Limnatis leeches
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior"]

Inventory of the Heteroptera (Insecta: Hemiptera) in Komaba Campus of the University of Tokyo, a highly urbanized area in Japan

Black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) of Turkish Thrace, with a new record for Turkey
["Black flies"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Parasitic Diseases Research and Treatment"]

New distributional data on aquatic and semiaquatic bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Gerromorpha & Nepomorpha) from South America

A review of the genus Scaponopselaphus Scheerpeltz (Insecta: Coleoptera: Staphylinidae)
["Xanthopygina"]

Notes on Shore Flies (Diptera: Ephydridae) from Finland and north-western Russia
The recent checklist of the Ephydridae of Finland by Zatwarnicki and Kahanpää (2014) mentioned 13 ephydrid species as new for Finland without further details. This paper presents detailed records for those species and a few other species of interest. Four species are recorded for the first time from Russia. Trimerina indistincta Krivosheina, 2004 is herein considered as a new junior synonym of Trimerina microchaeta Hendel, 1932, syn. nov.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Insects and Parasite Interactions", "Fossil Insects in Amber"]

Taxonomy and distribution of the ant Cataglyphis setipes (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Taxonomy and distribution of the ant species Cataglyphis setipes (Forel, 1894) is herewith detailed. C. setipes is redescribed, based on workers, queens, and males. Photomontage images of all castes are provided. Information on the distribution and ecology of this species is also given. A key to the Indian species of Cataglyphis is presented.
["Formicinae"]

Bridging the distributional gap of Tylorida striata (Thorell, 1877) and new synonymy (Araneae: Tetragnathidae)
["Tylorida"]

First records of the jewel beetles Chrysobothris desmaresti (Laporte & Gory, 1836) and Hiperantha stempelmanni Berg, 1889 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) in Bolivia
The jewel beetle species Chrysobothris desmaresti (Laporte & Gory, 1836) and Hiperantha stempelmanni Berg, 1889, have been recorded in Bolivia for the first time. Both species were collected on xeric Acacia trees. As indicated by their presence on Acacia and previous records, both species may be endemic to the arid intermountain valleys of the Southern Bolivian and Northern Argentinean Andes as well as the Chaco lowland forests.
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Coleoptera: Cerambycidae studies"]

Seven new species of Spathidexia Townsend (Diptera: Tachinidae) reared from caterpillars in Area de Conservación Guanacaste, Costa Rica
We describe seven new species of Spathidexia (Diptera: Tachinidae) reared from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), northwestern Costa Rica. All were reared from ­various species of ACG caterpillars during an ongoing inventory of caterpillars, their food plants and their parasitoids. By coupling morphology, photographic documentation, life history and molecular data, we provide a clear and concise description of each species. All are known to be previously undescribed as a result of a comprehensive study of the genus by DMW. Spathidexia atripalpus sp. n., Spathidexia juanvialesi sp. n., Spathidexia marioburgosi sp. n., Spathidexia luisrobertogallegosi sp. n., Spathidexia luteola sp. n., Spathidexia hernanrodriguezi sp. n. and Spathidexia aurantiaca sp. n. are all authored and described by Fleming and Wood. Minthodexiopsis Townsend is proposed by Wood as a new synonym of Spathidexia. A new combination proposed by Wood as a result of the new synonymy is S. flavicornis (Brauer & Bergenstamm) comb. n.
["Spathidexia"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

A new species of Lathrolestes Förster (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from Peruvian Amazonia
Lathrolestes fiedleri sp. n. is described from Peru. This is the first record of the tribe and the genus for the country.
["Ctenopelmatinae"]

Nine genera of Eucnemidae (Coleoptera) new to Peru, with a key to Peruvian genera
Thirteen genera of Eucnemidae containing forty species were collected from the Iquitos region in Peru. Nine of the genera are new to the country: Rhagomicrus Fleutiaux, 1902, Adelorhagus Horn, 1890, Adelothyreus Chevrolat, 1867, Microrhagus Dejean, 1833, Dyscharachthis Blackburn, 1900, Heterotaxis Bonvouloir, 1871, Spinifornax Fleutiaux, 1926, Serrifornax Fleutiaux, 1926 and Maelodrus Fleutiaux, 1928. The previous eucnemid record from Peru contained eleven species in ten genera. Only one of the forty species caught, Entomophthalmus americanus Bonvouloir, was previously known and described from the country. Dyscharachthis, Maelodrus and Adelorhagus are recorded from South America for the first time. Many of the collected species seem to favor white-sand forest as their habitat. Possible reasons for this are discussed. A list of eucnemids from Peru is included, containing taxa already recorded from the country and also taxa that are likely to occur there. A key to the Peruvian genera is included.

Updated list of the mosquitoes of Colombia (Diptera: Culicidae)
["Nematocera"]
["Mosquito-borne diseases and control", "Plant and soil sciences", "Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography"]

Additions to the myxobiota of the Åland Islands
Six myxomycete species new to the Åland Islands are presented: Comatricha elegans, Cribraria intricata, Didymium minus, Hemitrichia clavata, Licea variabilis and Trichia favoginea. The record of Cribraria intricata is the third in Finland. Specimens were collected in September 2014. Altogether the number of myxomycete species found from the Åland Islands is now 55.
["Amoebozoa"]
["Slime Mold and Myxomycetes Research", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Biocrusts and Microbial Ecology"]

Extravagant female sexual display in a Megaselia Rondani species (Diptera: Phoridae)
The behavior of females of a species of Megaselia is described. Females perch on leaves and occasionally "dance", fluttering their wings while rapidly running on the leaf surface. During this dance, they evert bright white abdominal sacs that apparently constitute part of a visual display to attract males. The evolutionary basis of these behaviors is discussed.
["Female choice"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect Utilization and Effects", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

Vigna pandeyana (Fabaceae), a new species from northern Western Ghats, India
["Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Agricultural pest management studies", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

Checklist of Fabaceae Lindley in Balaghat Ranges of Maharashtra, India
The present paper provides an enumeration of leguminous taxa of Balaghat Ranges of Maharashtra along with their habits, phenological deta and voucher specimen numbers. During the present work, a total of 123 species, 4 subspecies and 17 varieties of Fabaceae have been recorded for Balaghat Ranges of Maharashtra, of which 119 taxa are occurring in wild while 25 are under cultivation. The members of Fabaceae are dominant in herbaceous vegetation of the Balaghat Ranges. There are more species in genera like Crotalaria (23 taxa), Indigofera (16 taxa), Alysicarpus (14 taxa), Vigna (11 taxa) and Desmodium (8 taxa). Twelve taxa are endemic to India of which Indigofera deccanensis falls into Critically Endangered IUCN Red data category. The legumes of Balaghat Ranges have many actual and potential uses such as food, fodder and sources of edible oil, natural dyes, industrial lubricants, timber and medicines. About 19 leguminous taxa are wild relatives of food and fodder crops have resistance to pests and diseases, and abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity, can be used for crop improvement.
["Legumes"]
["Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Ethnobotanical and Medicinal Plants Studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Review of Anasillomos Londt, 1983 with the description of a new species (Insecta: Diptera: Asilidae)
The southern African assassin-fly genus Anasillomos Londt, 1983 is reviewed. A new species, Anasillomos juergeni sp. n., is described from the Namib desert and represents the second species in the genus. Descriptions/re-descriptions, photographs, and identification keys are provided to aid in the identification. Distribution, occurrence in biodiversity hotspots sensu Conservation International, and seasonal incidence are discussed.

Vascular plant community composition from the campos rupestres of the Itacolomi State Park, Brazil
Campos rupestres are rare and endangered ecosystems that accommodate a species-rich flora with a high degree of endemism. Here, we make available a dataset from phytosociological surveys carried out in the Itacolomi State Park, Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. All species in a total of 30 plots of 10 x 10 m from two study sites were sampled. Their cardinality, a combination of cover and abundance, was estimated. Altogether, we registered occurrences from 161 different taxa from 114 genera and 47 families. The families with the most species were Poaceae and Asteraceae, followed by Cyperaceae. Abiotic descriptions, including soil properties such as type, acidity, nutrient or aluminum availability, cation exchange capacity, and saturation of bases, as well as the percentage of rocky outcrops and the mean inclination for each plot, are given. This dataset provides unique insights into the campo rupestre vegetation, its specific environment and the distribution of its diversity.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution"]

Thirteen new records of ferns from Brazil
Thirteen fern species are reported for the first time for Brazil. Among the new records, eight are from Acre state (Cyathea subincisa, Cyclodium trianae, Elaphoglossum stenophyllum, Hypoderris brauniana, Pleopeltis stolzei, Thelypteris arcana, Thelypteris comosa, Thelypteris valdepilosa), two are from Pará state (Polypodium flagellare, Tectaria heracleifolia), one from Minas Gerais state (Alsophila salvinii), one from Ceará state (Campyloneurum costatum) and one from Bahia state (Thelypteris rolandii). Part of the species shows a disjunct occurrence or illustrates floristic relations between Brazilian and Andean Mountains or Central American Mountains.
["Pteridophyta"]

An exhaustive inventory of coniferous trees in an agricultural landscape
["Ornamental trees"]
["Entomological Studies and Ecology", "Bee Products Chemical Analysis", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management"]

Description of male Tylorida sataraensis Kulkarni, 2014 (Araneae, Tetragnathidae) with notes on habits and conservation status
The male sex of Tylorida sataraensis Kulkarni, 2014 is described based on specimens from the type locality. The distinguishing characters from its closest species Tylorida ventralis (Thorell, 1877) are detailed. An interesting behaviour of going underwater by T. sataraensis, on disturbance is recorded and tested for significance. The surveys have shown sighting of this species only to the perennial streams of the rocky outcrops in Satara region. The potential threats to this species and the possible conservation status based on known distribution are discussed.
["Tetragnathid spider"]

New provincial records of skinks (Squamata: Scincidae) from northwestern Vietnam
We report six new records of skinks from northwestern Vietnam: Eutropis macularius, Scincella devorator, S. monticola, S. ochracea, Sphenomorphus cryptotis and S. indicus. Our new findings increase the species number of skinks (Scincidae) to nine in Dien Bien Province and to 14 in Son La Province. We also provide additional natural history data of aforementioned species.
["Scincidae"]
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Animal and Plant Science Education", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

A new species of Margaromantis Piza, 1982 (Insecta: Mantodea) from Brazil
A second species of the Neotropical mantid genus Margaromantis Piza, 1982, Margaromantis nigrolineata sp. n. is described from Bahia, Brazil. This new species can be recognized by the presence of a transverse black strip between compound eyes in the vertex; fore femora exhibiting black calluses on the inner face; lacking yellowish strips over the transverse veins on the metathoracic wings; left dorsal phallomere with rectangular ventral lamina, elongated and grooved lateral process, and a flattened, but not twisted apical process that is upwardly recurved.
["Chapada Diamantina"]

Neoniphon pencei, a new species of holocentrid (Teleostei: Beryciformes) from Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Neoniphon pencei, n. sp., is described from thirteen specimens, 132-197 mm standard length (SL) collected from mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) at Rarotonga, Cook Islands by divers using mixed-gas closed-circuit rebreathers. It differs from all other species of the genus in number of lateral line scales, scales above and below lateral line, elements of life color, and in COI and cytochrome b DNA sequences. Of the five other known species of Neoniphon, it is most similar to the Indo-Pacific N. aurolineatus and the western Atlantic N. marianus both morphologically and genetically.
["Holocentridae"]

Corrigendum: Targeting a portion of central European spider diversity for permanent preservation
["Spider", "Diversity (politics)", "Biology", "Evolutionary biology", "Zoology", "Political science", "Law"]
["Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Terrestrial gastropods of Srebarna Nature Reserve, North-Eastern Bulgaria (Gastropoda)
We give the results from the first investigation focused on the land snail fauna in Srebarna Nature Reserve in Bulgaria. A total of 23 localities were studied and 27 species of terrestrial gastropods were found, 23 of which were new observations for the Reserve.
["Bulgaria"]
["Mollusks and Parasites Studies", "Geological Formations and Processes Exploration", "Ancient and Medieval Archaeology Studies"]

Bat assemblages from three Atlantic Forest fragments in Rio de Janeiro state, Southeastern Brazil
Bat species richness in Neotropical localities is generally higher than that of any other group of mammals, and surveys of local bat assemblages may provide useful data for conservation management plans. Although the bat fauna of the Rio de Janeiro state is currently one of the best known in Brazil, there are several localities not adequately surveyed yet, and most of them are in the mountainous regions and in the northern portion of the state. From January 2008 to November 2009, we conducted surveys of bats in three localities in the state of Rio de Janeiro (municipalities of Varre-Sai, Sumidouro, and Cantagalo), and our fieldwork constitutes the first assessment of the bat assemblages of these localities. Surveys were conducted using mist nets in four different habitat types in each locality (forest interior, forest edge, riparian forest, and open areas [pastures]). We captured a total of 148 individuals in 17 species, 14 genera and 3 families. Among them, 11 species were recorded in Sumidouro, seven in Cantagalo, and nine in Varre-Sai. Although species richness was low compared with previous surveys in other close localities, we recorded species that have been rarely sampled in Southeastern Brazil (e.g., Macrophyllum macrophyllum [Phyllostomidae]). The results reinforce the importance of sampling different habitats in short surveys to improve the number of species registered.
["Atlantic Forest remnants"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation", "Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior"]

On the morphology, biometry and biogeography of Lamtopyxis callistoma (Amoebozoa: Arcellinida)
The ultra-structure of the shell and the morphometric variability of soil inhabiting testate amoeba Lamtopyxis callistoma from Madagascar were studied by using light- and scanning electron microscopy. The biometrical characteristic of the species was made on the basis of 75 specimens measured. In addition to the diameter of the shell, six other shell characters were described biometrically for the first time. The analysis of the variation coefficients shows that the studied population of L. callistoma is comparatively homogeneous and almost all measured characters are weakly to moderate variable (CV less than 10%). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies on the shell ultra-morphology show that it has a smooth apertural surface with a thick layer of porous and fibrous organic cement and a rough dorsal surface composed of bigger and angular pieces of quartz. The shell wall has a thickness of about 5-6 µm and is composed of three layers. Unlike the previously accepted opinion that species is characterized by the presence of four teeth, this study shows that population of L. callistoma from Madagascar is comprised of both, specimens with four teeth and specimens with three teeth, in ratio of about 60% to 40%. Taking into account the restricted geographical distribution, large sizes and characteristic apertural morphology of L. callistoma it is assumed that this species, like some bryophilic ‘Nebelas’ with circumaustral distribution (e.g. Apodera vas, Alocodera cockayni, Certesella certesi, Certesella martiali, etc.), can be used as an example that in free-living microbial eukaryotes ‘not everything is everywhere’.
["Testate amoebae"]
["Protist diversity and phylogeny", "Paleontology and Stratigraphy of Fossils", "Geology and Paleoclimatology Research"]

A new type of ant-decapitation in the Phoridae (Insecta: Diptera)
The genus Dohrniphora is a hyperdiverse group of phorid flies, a family whose species are commonly characterized as generalized scavengers. The lifestyle of most species of Dohrniphora is unknown, although one cosmopolitan, synanthropic species, D. cornuta (Bigot) fits the general scavenger mold. Here we show that flies of the D. longirostrata species group exhibit highly specific “headhunting” behavior in which injured Odontomachus ants are decapitated, the heads dragged away, and females either feed on their contents or lay an egg nearby. Since most females studied lacked eggs in their ovaries, we conclude that this bizarrely specialized feeding is necessary to provide nutrients for reproduction in these flies. Our study provides further evidence that injured ants are a common, stable resource in tropical ecosystems that support a wide array of phorid flies. Such narrowly constrained lifestyles, as exemplified by exclusively feeding on and breeding in the head contents of certain ponerine worker ants, could allow the co-existence of a huge community of saprophagous flies.
["Tropical"]
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Insect Utilization and Effects"]

On the female of Gypona reversa DeLong & Martinson, 1972, with emphasis on genital structures (Insecta: Hemiptera: Cicadellidae)
Gypona reversa DeLong & Martinson, 1972 has its ovipositor described and illustrated based on the examination of specimens from its type locality. This is the first species of Gypona Germar, 1821 to have the female genitalia detailed description published.

Distribution and habitat of the Laotian Rock Rat Laonastes aenigmamus Jenkins, Kilpatrick, Robinson & Timmins, 2005 (Rodentia: Diatomyidae) in Vietnam
The Laotian Rock Rat Laonastes aenigmamus Jenkins, Kilpatrick, Robinson & Timmins, 2005 was originally discovered in Lao People's Democratic Republic in 2005. This species has been recognized as the sole surviving member of the otherwise extinct rodent family Diatomyidae. Laonastes aenigmamus was initially reported only in limestone forests of Khammouane Province, Central Lao. A second population was recently discovered in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park (PNKB NP), Quang Binh Province, Central Vietnam in 2011. The confirmed distribution range of L. aenigmamus in Vietnam is very small, approximately 150 km2, covering low karst mountains in five communes of Minh Hoa District, Quang Binh Province, at elevations between 250 and 400 m asl. The Laotian Rock Rat inhabits the lower part of steep karst towers with many rock boulders and crevices under tall limestone evergreen forest. They use small rock crevices for their dens. The natural habitat of this species in PNKB NP has been affected by selected timber harvesting, however, a complex 3-4 layer forest structure is retained. The Laotian Rock Rat is omnivorous, feeding on parts (leaves, buds, fruits and roots) of 18 plant species and also some insects (cicada, mantis, grasshopper). The population of this species in PNKB NP is seriously threatened with extinction due to its very restricted distribution, high hunting pressure, and habitat disturbance. Laonastes aenigmamus is listed in the IUCN Red List as endangered and in the Wildlife and Aquatic Red List of Lao, however, this species has not been listed in the Red Data Book or any conservation legislative documents of Vietnam.
["Laonastes aenigmamus"]
["Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies", "Evolution and Paleontology Studies", "Yersinia bacterium, plague, ectoparasites research"]

Vigna yadavii (Leguminosae: Papilionoideae), a new species from Western Ghats, India
A new species of Vigna Savi, subgenus Ceratotropis (Piper) Verdc., Vigna yadavii S.P. Gaikwad, R.D. Gore, S.D. Randive & K.U. Garad, sp. nov. is described and illustrated here. It is morphologically close to Vigna dalzelliana (Kuntze) Verdc. but differs in its underground obligate cleistogamous flowers on positively geotropic branches, hairy calyx, small corolla, linear style beak and dimorphic seeds with shiny seed coat.
["Ceratotropis"]
["Agricultural pest management studies", "Botanical Research and Chemistry", "Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies"]

Unveiling of a cryptic Dicranomyia (Idiopyga) from northern Finland using integrative approach (Diptera, Limoniidae)
The subgenus Idiopyga Savchenko, 1987 is a northern hemisphere group of short-palped crane flies (Diptera, Limoniidae). In the current article we describe a new species, Dicranomyia (I.) boreobaltica Salmela sp.n., and redescribe the male and female post-abdomen of a closely related species, D. (I.) intricata Alexander. A standard DNA barcoding fragment of 5′ region of the cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene of the new species is presented, whilst the K2P minimum distances between the new species and 10 other species of the subgenus were found to range from 5.1 to 15.7 % (mean 11.2 %). Phylogenetic analyses (parsimony and maximum likelihood) based on COI sequences support the identity of the new species and its close relationship with D. (I.) intricata and D. (I.) esbeni (Nielsen). The new species is known from the northern Baltic area of Finland. The new species has been mostly collected from Baltic coastal meadows but an additional relict population is known from a calcareous rich fen that was estimated to have been at sea level circa 600-700 years ago. Dicranomyia (I.) intricata (syn. D. suecica Nielsen) is a Holarctic species, occurring in the north boreal and subarctic vegetation zones in Fennoscandia.

A new species of Cordyligaster Macquart, reared from caterpillars in Area de Conservacion Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica
We describe a new species of Cordyligaster Macquart (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservacion Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica. Cordyligaster capellii sp. n., is described and photographed. All specimens of C. capellii were reared from Syngamia florella (Stoll, 1781) (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Spilomelinae), a leaf-rolling caterpillar collected in ACG rain forest. By coupling morphology, photographic documentation, life history and molecular data, we provide a clear and concise description of this new species. In addition the authors provide new distribution and host records for C. fuscipennis (Macquart) reared in ACG.
["Cordyligaster"]

Taxonomic notes and distribution extension of Durga Das’s leaf-nosed bat Hipposideros durgadasi Khajuria, 1970 (Chiroptera: Hipposideridae) from south India
Durga Das’s leaf-nosed bat Hipposideros durgadasi Khajuria, 1970 is endemic to India, and was known only from Katanga, Katangi, and Richhai villages, in Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh. During surveys conducted in Kolar district, Karnataka, India, we successfully mist-netted a few individuals belonging to the bicolor species group which, upon detailed external, craniodental and bacular studies were identified as Durga Das’s leaf-nosed bat. This paper reports the presence of this species in southern India, extending its distribution range by almost 1300 km. We also provide a detailed morphological description for this species.
["Hipposideros durgadasi"]
["Bat Biology and Ecology Studies", "Marine animal studies overview", "Species Distribution and Climate Change"]

Three new country records from the genus Limnephilus Leach, 1815 (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) from the Republic of Kosovo
New faunistic data on Trichoptera from Kosovo based on sampling carried out during the autumn of 2013 and first half of 2014 are presented. Limnephilus bipunctatus was found in a small stream in Kaqandoll village located in northern Kosovo and in Shtuticë village located in central Kosovo. Two male specimens of Limnephilus decipiens  were found at Gurrat e Hasan Agës Springs and Bistrica e Lloqanit River, an alpine area in the Lloqan mountains, which belong to the Bjeshkët e Nemuna mountains. A single male specimen of Limnephilus stigma was found in Klinë, located in central Kosovo. All three species are rare in Kosovo. A preliminary checklist of eight species of Limnephilus from Kosovo is provided along with biogeographical and ecological notes. This paper is a further contribution to the faunistic list of Trichoptera of Kosovo, one of the least explored countries in Europe.
["Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

Peyerimhoffia jaschhoforum (Diptera, Sciaridae), a new deadwood inhabiting species from Canada
A new species of black fungus gnat from Canada, Peyerimhoffia jaschhoforum sp. n., is presented with a description, illustrations, biotope information and a brief discussion of the placement and concept of the genus Peyerimhoffia. P. jaschhoforum is characterized by a unique gonostylar structure where the apex is hollowed but not enclosed and contains a mass of mega setae housed within. P. jaschhoforum was reared from decomposing jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) deadwood using both in-situ and ex-situ photoeclectors. We documented three additional specimens originating from Fennoscandia that resemble P. jaschhoforum but differ based on a broader tegmen, placement of setigerous papillae behind the tegmen and the fused intercoxal area. Based on this, these specimens are assigned to a new subspecies, Peyerimhoffia jaschhoforum fennoscandica ssp. n.
["Black fungus gnats"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Plant and Fungal Interactions Research"]

The first record of a fly of the family Milichiidae (Diptera) interacting with an ant of the genus Polyrhachis Smith, 1857 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Flies in the family Milichiidae are often myrmecophilic. We document the first record of a fly from this family interacting with an ant of the genus Polyrhachis. In lowland riparian rainforest in Sabah, Malaysia, we observed a female of the genus Milichia following an ant of the species of P. illaudata, and repeatedly attempting to make close contact. Our observation suggests that the dipteran may have been attempting to feed kleptoparasitically from the Polyrhachis worker, since members of this ant genus often feed on liquid carbohydrate-rich food resources. This is the first time an interaction has been observed between a fly of this family and an ant of this widespread old world tropical genus.

First record of the genus Venanus (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Microgastrinae) in Mesoamerica, with the description of two new species from Costa Rica
The New World genus Venanus (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Microgastrinae) is a small group of parasitoid wasps that includes two Nearctic and seven Neotropical species. Here two additional species, authored by Fernández-Triana & Whitfield, are described from Costa Rica: V. johnnyrosalesi sp. n. from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) and V. randallgarciai sp. n. from Area de Conservación Cordillera Volcanica Central. They represent the first record of the genus for Mesoamerica. A previous key to all known Venanus (Whitfield et al. 2011) is modified to include the new species. The Costa Rican species were collected at altitudes of 1,400–1,460 m, but nothing is known of their biology. DNA barcodes were obtained for both species and are included as part of the description along with extensive photos. This paper is part of a series inventorying the diversity of Microgastrinae in ACG.
["Venanus"]

The Afrotropical Miomantis caffra Saussure 1871 and M. paykullii Stal 1871: first records of alien mantid species in Portugal and Europe, with an updated checklist of Mantodea in Portugal (Insecta: Mantodea)
The recent growing interest on the Mantodea fauna of southern Europe and Portugal in particular, has enabled the discovery of two geographically separated populations of hitherto unknown species in Europe. Analysis of specimens shows that they belong to two Afrotropical mantids: Miomantis caffra Saussure, 1871 and Miomantis paykullii Stal, 1871, thus raising the number of known species in Europe to 39 and in Portugal to 11.
While these are remarkable findings, they also represent the first alien mantis species recorded from this continent. As yet, these species appear to be confined to artificial humanised gardened areas but call for more attention to the problem of biological invasions and the need for better bio-security measures for the conservation of natural ecosystems.
In the absence of recent revisionary work on the Mantodea of Portugal and given the need to provide an accessible identification tool, both a checklist and a key to species are provided for all species in the country.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Plant and animal studies"]

An unusual new species of Micraspis Chevrolat (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) from northeastern India
Micraspis pusillus sp. n. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is described and illustrated from the northeastern region of India. It is unusual in possessing very large eye canthus and is the smallest species of the genus known from India so far.
["Micraspis"]

The tip of the iceberg: a distinctive new spotted-wing Megaselia species (Diptera: Phoridae) from a tropical cloud forest survey and a new, streamlined method for Megaselia descriptions
A new Megaselia species, M. shadeae, with a large, central, pigmented and bubble-like wing spot and a greatly enlarged radial wing vein fork, is described from Zurquí de Moravia, Costa Rica. As part of the Zurquí All Diptera Biodiversity Inventory (ZADBI) project, it represents the first of an incredible number of new phorid species to be described from this one Costa Rican cloud forest site. A new, streamlined method of description for species of this enormous genus of phorid flies is presented.
["Tropical"]
["Insect behavior and control techniques", "Insect and Pesticide Research", "Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies"]

Ichthyofauna of the Kubo, Tochikura, and Ichinono river systems (Kitakami River drainage, northern Japan), with a comparison of predicted and surveyed species richness
The potential fish species pool of the Kubo, Tochikura, and Ichinono river systems (tributaries of the Iwai River, Kitakami River drainage), Iwate Prefecture, northern Japan, was compared with the observed ichthyofauna by using historical records and new field surveys. Based on the literature survey, the potential species pool comprised 24 species/subspecies but only 20, including 7 non-native taxa, were recorded during the fieldwork. The absence during the survey of 11 species/subspecies from the potential species pool suggested either that sampling effort was insufficient, or that accurate determination of the potential species pool was hindered by lack of biogeographic data and ecological data related to the habitat use of the species. With respect to freshwater fish conservation in the area, Lethenteron reissneri, Carassius auratus buergeri, Pseudorasbora pumila, Tachysurus tokiensis, Oryzias latipes, and Cottus nozawae are regarded as priority species, and Cyprinus rubrofuscus, Pseudorasbora parva, and Micropterus salmoides as targets for removal.
["Act on the Promotion of Nature Restoration"]
["Fish Ecology and Management Studies", "Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Fish Biology and Ecology Studies"]

Streamlining the use of BOLD specimen data to record species distributions: a case study with ten Nearctic species of Microgastrinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
The Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD) is designed to support the generation and application of DNA barcode data, but it also provides a unique source of data with potential for many research uses. This paper explores the streamlining of BOLD specimen data to record species distributions – and its fast publication using the Biodiversity Data Journal (BDJ), and its authoring platform, the Pensoft Writing Tool (PWT). We selected a sample of 630 specimens and 10 species of a highly diverse group of parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from the Nearctic region and used the information in BOLD to uncover a significant number of new records (of locality, provinces, territories and states). By converting specimen information (such as locality, collection date, collector, voucher depository) from the BOLD platform to the Excel template provided by the PWT, it is possible to quickly upload and generate long lists of "Material Examined" for papers discussing taxonomy, ecology and/or new distribution records of species. For the vast majority of publications including DNA barcodes, the generation and publication of ancillary data associated with the barcoded material is seldom highlighted and often disregarded, and the analysis of those data sets to uncover new distribution patterns of species has rarely been explored, even though many BOLD records represent new and/or significant discoveries. The introduction of journals specializing in – and streamlining – the release of these datasets, such as the BDJ, should facilitate thorough analysis of these records, as shown in this paper.
["Species distribution records"]

Additional records for Stenosagola newtoni Park & Carlton, 2013 (Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae: Faronitae), with notes on aedeagal morphology
The purpose of this short note is to identify morphospecies sp. 0471 of the Hope River Forest Fragmentation Project. It is Stenosagola newtoni Park & Carlton, 2013. The material listed herein raises the number of published specimen records for S. newtoni from 2 to 51. All additional 49 specimens are fully winged males, collected in flight intercept traps (FITs), from the South Island of New Zealand. Examination of the new material has resulted in the detection of an error in the original description of S. newtoni, whereby the mirror image of the aedeagus was inadvertently illustrated. It is not a case of genitalic antisymmetry.
["Hope River Forest Fragmentation Project"]

Filling in the gap: two new records and an updated distribution map for the Gulf Sand gecko Pseudoceramodactylus khobarensis Haas, 1957

A new species of Anabarhynchus (Diptera: Therevidae) from an ocean beach in south east Victoria
Anabarhynchus Macquart 1848 is a large genus of the Therevidae (Diptera) that are endemic to Australasia with a couple of described species from Melanesia. We describe and illustrate Anabarhynchus oceanus sp. n., a species found on ocean beaches in eastern Victoria, Australia. The species shares most characters with the monobasic A. kampmeierae species group of Lyneborg (2001), but also shares a unique feature of the male genitalia with the endemic New Zealand genus Megathereva Lyneborg, 1992. This new species brings the total number of described Australian species in the genus to 113.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

Two new emerald geometrid species of Telotheta Warren from Ecuador and Bolivia (Lepidoptera: Geometridae, Geometrinae, Lophochoristini)
Two new species of the lophochoristine genus Telotheta Warren found in Ecuador and Bolivia are described. The paper focuses on the morphological description and illustration of the wing pattern and genitalia structures of the typus generis Telotheta muscipunctata Dognin and the newly identified species T. unoi and T. fresei. The distinguishing characters of the genera Telotheta and Paromphacodes are also briefly discussed.

Male sleeping aggregation of multiple Eucerini bee genera (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil
Males of some groups of bees have to find a place outside the nests to sleep, sometimes forming “male sleeping aggregations”. Here we report the first record of “dense” male sleeping aggregation of two different genera of Eucerini bees observed in Bahia, Brazil. We discuss the possible aim of this kind of aggregation as well the plant utilized on aggregate.
["Long-horned bees"]

A new Neoplatyura Malloch from Finland (Diptera, Keroplatidae)
The genus Neoplatyura Malloch is globally represented by 50 species, of which four are European species. In this article a new European Neoplatyura from Finland is described. The new species, Neoplatyura noorae Salmela, sp. n. is a dark brown species with tibial bristles arranged in rows. The new species is here reported from seven localities in Finnish Lapland. Based on available data, the new species occurs in mires, especially in calcareous rich fens.
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Peatlands and Wetlands Ecology"]

Calvia explanata sp. n. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae: Coccinellinae) from the Indian Subcontinent
Calvia explanata sp. n. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), externally similar to and commonly misidentified as C. albida Bielawski, is described from India and Nepal.
["Calvia explanata"]
["Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Agricultural pest management studies", "Insect Resistance and Genetics"]

Studies in Hawaiian Diptera II: New Distributional Records for Endemic Scatella (Ephydridae)
Here we summarize the known distributional data for the Hawaiian Scatella (Ephydridae). We report on four new island records; S. amnica and S. stagnalis from Kauai, S. oahuense from Lanai, and S. terryi from Maui. A list of material present, comprising over 3100 individual specimen records in the collections of the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, University of Hawaii at Manoa, and Essig Musuem of Entomology at UC Berkeley is included, along with details distributional maps for the Hawaiian endemic species.
["Hawaiian Islands"]
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Plant and animal studies", "Insect behavior and control techniques"]

First description of the worker caste of Nylanderia smythiesii (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
The hitherto unknown worker caste of Nylanderia smythiesii (Forel, 1894) is described for the first time. Sexuals are redescribed and photomontage images of all castes are provided. A key is presented to separate the six Indian species of Nylanderia. Previously described Nylanderia assimilis (Jerdon, 1851) is considered a species inquirenda.
["Formicinae"]

New data of three rare belondirid species (Nematoda, Dorylaimida, Belondiridae) from Vietnam, with the first record and description of the male of Oxybelondira paraperplexa Ahmad & Jairajpuri, 1979
Three rare nematode species of the family Belondiridae, originally described from and only known to occur in India are recorded for the first time in Vietnam: Axonchium thoubalicum, Belondira murtazai and Oxybelondira paraperplexa. It is the first report of these three genera in this country. The three species are described, including new morphological data, morphometrics and light microscope pictures. The male of O. paraperplexa is collected and described for the first time. It is characterized by its 1.54 mm long body, ad-cloacal pair of genital papillae situated at 9.0 µm from the cloacal aperture, only one ventromedian supplement located at 15 µm from the ad-cloacal pair within the range of spicules, spicules slightly curved ventrad and 42 µm long (7 times as long as wide and 2 times as long as cloacal body diameter), and tail 100 µm long (c = 15, c’ = 5) and similar to that of the female.

A new species of Orthosiphon (Lamiaceae) from Angola
A new species of Orthosiphon (Lamiaceae), O. cinereus A.J.Paton, sp. nov. from Angola is described and the eight species of Orthosiphon in Angola listed with reference to previous accounts. Orthosiphon newtonii Briq. is reduced to the synonymy of Endostemon tubulascens (Briq.) M.Ashby.
["Bioactive Compounds in Plants", "Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Activities", "Phytochemical compounds biological activities"]

Saproxylic beetles of the Po plain woodlands, Italy
Forest ecosystems play an important role for the conservation of biodiversity, and for the protection of ecological processes. The Po plain woodlands which once covered the whole Plain, today are reduced in isolated highly threatened remnants by modern intensive agriculture. These close to natural floodplain forests are one of the most scarce and endangered ecosystems in Europe.
Saproxylic species represent a major part of biodiversity of woodlands. The saproxylic insects are considered one of the most reliable bio-indicators of high-quality mature woodlands and have a very important role in regard to the protection and monitoring of forest biodiversity due to their highly specific living environments. As a result of the dramatic reduction of mature forests and the decreased availability of deadwood most of the saproxylic communities are greatly diminishing.
The study was conducted in the Ticino Valley Regional Park and the aim is to contribute to the expansion of knowledge on the saproxylic beetles of Lombardy. We investigated 6 sampling sites belonging to alluvial and riparian mixed forests. For each forest we selected 12 trees. For beetles’ collection we used two different traps: Eclector Traps and Trunk Window Traps (total of 72 traps and 864 samples collected).
We determined 4.387 beetles from 87 saproxylic species belonging to 21 families. Of these species 51 were not included in the previous checklist of the Park.
By comparing the two different techniques used for catching saproxylic beetles, we found a significantly high difference in species richness between Window Traps (WT) and Eclector Traps (ET) with a higher number of species captured in the Window Traps. However, the combined use of two different types of traps significantly expanded the spectrum of insects captured
Among the species reported as Least Concern in the IUCN Red List, we found interesting species such as the Elateridae Calambus bipustulats, the Eucnemidae Melasis buprestoides and the following species never previously found in the Park: Cerambycidae Xylotrechus rusticus, the Cetoniidae Valgus hemipterus, the Elateridae Lacon punctatus, the Mycetophagidae Mycetophagus piceus, Litargus connexus.
Although we didn’t find species listed in the Annexes of the EU Habitat Directive, some of the species found are locally threatened because of their rarity, local distribution, and strong linkage to old forests. Among these species there are the Bothrideridae Bothrideres bipunctatus, the Cerambycidae Prionus coriarius and Xylotrechus rusticus, the Dryophthoridae Dryophthorus corticalis, the Eucnemidae Nematodes filum (with only 1 individual captured in Alnus unmanged forest), the Histeridae Aeletes atomarius and Paromalus flavicornis, the Laemophloeidae Cryptolestes duplicatus, the Latridiidae Enicmus rugosus and Latridius hirtus, the Mycetophagidae Mycetophagus piceus, and the Zopheridae Colydium elongatum and Pycnomerus terebrans.
["Dead wood"]
["Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies", "Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions", "Lichen and fungal ecology"]

Aspilota-group (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Alysiinae) diversity in Mediterranean Natural Parks of Spain
This work analyses the biodiversity of the Aspilota-group (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Alysiinae) in three Mediterranean Natural parks: Natural Park of La Font Roja, Natural Park of Las Lagunas de la Mata-Torrevieja and Natural Park of La Tinença de Benifassà. Samples were carried out from April 2004 to December 2007. In total, 822 specimens, belonging to 52 species, were collected. Alpha, beta and gamma diversities were analysed, and the Tinença Park was proven to have higher diversity than the Font Roja and Torrevieja. Also, the structure of the Aspilota-group community was analysed.

The land crab Johngarthia planata (Stimpson, 1860) (Crustacea, Brachyura, Gecarcinidae) colonizes human-dominated ecosystems in the continental mainland coast of Mexico
The land crab Johngarthia planata (Stimpson, 1860) has been reported from the Baja California Peninsula and several oceanic islands in the Eastern Pacific as well as inshore islands of the Mexican, Costa Rican and Colombian coast. However, the species has not been observed on the continental mainland, as it is likely that the high diversity of terrestrial predators/competitors make the establishment of mainland populations nearly impossible. In this contribution, several new records of this species that have been observed in urban areas along the continental Pacific coast of Mexico are reported. These records demonstrate that the presence of humans does not necessarily have a negative impact on land crab species. Indeed, the presence of humans may actually discourage the presence of native crab predators/competitors and hence increase the likelihood of a successful mainland settlement of land crab species that are otherwise island and peninsula restricted. The presence of J. planata is ecologically relevant for coastal forests because gecarcinid crabs significantly influence plant recruitment and J. planata is considerably larger than the mainland species Gecarcinus quadratus.
["Crustacean biology and ecology", "Marine and coastal plant biology", "Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies"]

Report on the occurrence of synanthropic derived form of Chrysomya megacephala (Diptera: Calliphoridae) from Royapuram fishing harbour, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
The occurrence of dipteran fly, Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) is reported for the first time from Royapuram fishing harbour (Chennai), Tamil Nadu, South East India. The fully grown third instar larvae of C. megacephala were collected from decaying fishes near Royapuram fishing harbour. This site is found to be the regular breeding site for C. megacephala. Larvae were reared under laboratory condition and freshly emerged adult flies from pupae were collected and identified by morphological features and molecular tools. Molecular identification through generation of DNA barcoding using mitochondrial COI gene of C. megacephala is appended.
["Blowfly"]

The high alpine bee fauna (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) of the Zillertal Alps, Austria
Bees from the Zemmgrund area in the Zillertal Alps (Austria, Tyrol) were collected and determined to investigate the species composition of the area. A total of 61 specimens were collected over a two year period; they represent 24 species from 8 genera. Building on these records, the first commented checklist for the area is presented, with notes on habitats and visited flowers.
["Tyrol"]

The distribution of the vascular plants on the North Frisian Island, Amrum
Amrum is a small barrier island on the north-west coast of Germany. The distribution of vascular plants was examined by surveying their 1km2 grid square occupancy across the whole island. These data were used in a study on the recent vegetation change in the island. These data include 3786 observations of 450 taxa collected in two surveys in 2007 and 2008.
["Amrum"]
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Ecology and Soil Science"]

Redescription of Platynaspis flavoguttata (Gorham) (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) and notes on nomenclature of Platynaspis kapuri Chakraborty & Biswas
Platynaspis flavoguttata (Gorham) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is redescribed and the male genitalia are illustrated for the first time. It is also recorded from Sri Lanka for the first time. Platynaspis bimaculata (Hoang, 1983) is a new junior synonym of Platynaspis bimaculata Pang & Mao, 1979 (new synonym). Platynaspis kapuri Chakraborty & Biswas, 2000, the replacement name for Platynaspis bimaculata Pang & Mao, 1979 established by Ukrainsky (2007), is also the new replacement name for Platynaspis bimaculata (Hoang, 1983), as both are junior homonyms of Platynaspis bimaculata Weise, 1888 besides being synonyms. Platynaspis hoangi Ukrainsky (2007) is an unnecessary replacement name for P. bimaculata (Hoang).
["Platynaspis flavoguttata"]

Guide to the Vascular Flora of the Savannas and Flatwoods of Shaken Creek Preserve and Vicinity (Pender & Onslow Counties, North Carolina, U.S.A.)
Shaken Creek Preserve (“SCP”) is a 2,448 ha (6,050 ac) natural area in Pender and Onslow Counties, North Carolina (U.S.A). Best known for its high-quality longleaf pine savanna habitat, the site contains seven savanna or savanna-like plant community types (i.e., flatwoods or sandhills), three of which are globally critically imperiled (G1): Sandy Pine Savanna (Rush Featherling subtype), Wet Loamy Pine Savanna, and Very Wet Loamy Pine Savanna. SCP hosts three Federally Endangered plant species and six Federal Species of Concern. Formerly a private hunting club, the site was virtually unknown to scientists until the 1990s; consequently, few biological inventories of SCP have been conducted. In particular, no systematic floristic inventories of the species-rich savannas have been undertaken, despite the fact that floristic data is critical to the effective management of any natural area. The goals of this study were to (1) inventory the vascular flora of the savannas, flatwoods, and sandhill community types on site through the collection of voucher specimens; (2) provide a comprehensive checklist of the flora based on collections and reports made from the site and from the same or similar habitats in the vicinity (i.e., within 2 miles of SCP); and (3) create an illustrated guide based on the checklist. In order to increase the usefulness of the guide, taxa not currently known from SCP but collected or reported from the same or similar habitats within two miles of SCP, are included in the guide. Eighty-three families containing 450 taxa, including thirty-two Significantly Rare and thirty-eight Watch List taxa, were collected or reported from SCP; an additional seven families containing a total of 102 taxa, including eighteen Significantly Rare and seven Watch List taxa, were collected or reported from the vicinity. In total, ninety families containing 552 taxa, including fifty Significantly Rare and forty-five Watch List taxa, are treated in the guide. Dichotomous keys are provided to all vouchered or reported families, genera, and species. The following features are provided for all species and infraspecific taxa: flowering and fruiting phenology; synonymy with Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas, the Flora of North America, and Flora of the Southern and Mid-Atlantic States; relevant voucher information; and, for most taxa, line drawings and/or photographs. For taxa collected from SCP, community types in which the taxa occur and estimates of abundance on site are also provided.
["Floristic inventory"]
["Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Archaeology and Natural History", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Chromosome studies in the aquatic monocots of Myanmar: A brief review with additional records
Myanmar (Burma) constitutes a significant component of the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot, with elements of the Indian, the Indochina, and the Sino-Japanese floristic regions, yet thus far only a few reliable sources of the country's flora have been available. As a part of a contribution for the floristic inventory of Myanmar, since it is important in a floristic survey to obtain as much information as possible, in addition to previous two reports, here we present three more chromosome counts in the aquatic monocots of Myanmar: Limnocharis flava with 2n = 20, Sagittaria trifolia with 2n = 22 (Alismataceae), and Potamogeton distinctus × P. nodosus with 2n = 52 (Potamogetonaceae); the third one is new to science. A brief review of cytological researches in the floristic regions' 45 non-hybrid aquatic monocots plus well investigated two inter-specific hybrids that are recorded in Myanmar is given, indicating that the further works with a focus on species in Myanmar that has infra-specific chromosome variation in the floristic regions will address the precise evolutionary history of the aquatic flora of Myanmar.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Edaphic and light conditions of sympatric plant morphotypes in western Amazonia
Here I present a dataset of edaphic and light conditions associated with the occurrence of sympatric morphotypes of Geonoma macrostachys (Arecaceae/Palmae), a candidate case study from Amazonia hypothesized to have evolved under ecological speciation. Transects were established in three lowland rainforests in Peru, and the abundance of each local morphotype of this species was recorded in a total area of 4.95 hectares. Composite soil samples and hemispherical photographs were taken along the transects were the species occurred to obtain information on soil nutrients, soil texture, and indirect measurements of light availability. The raw and summary tables disclose the characteristics of each study site and habitats within them, which could be useful to soil scientists, ecologists, and conservationists engaged in similar research activities or meta-analyses in Amazonia.
["Canopy openness"]
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Plant and animal studies", "Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics"]

Tettigettalna josei (Boulard, 1982) (Hemiptera: Cicadoidea): first record in Spain, with notes on the distribution, genetic variation and behaviour of the species
The small cicada Tettigettalna josei (Boulard, 1982) was until recently only known from southern Portugal and was considered endemic to this country. Fieldwork in 2013 led to the first record of the species in Spain, expanding its known eastern range to Andalusia. The northern limits remain poorly defined but it appears that the distribution of T. josei is restricted to the south Atlantic coastline in the Iberian Peninsula, with the highest densities found in Algarve. Some notes on behaviour and genetic variation of T. josei are also given.
["Cicada"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Checklist of Fishes from Madagascar Reef, Campeche Bank, México
This study presents the first list of fish species from Madagascar Reef, Campeche Bank, Gulf of México. Field surveys and literature review identified 54 species belonging to 8 orders, 30 families and 43 genera, comprising both conspicuous and cryptic fishes. Species richness was lower at this reef site compared to reefs in the Mexican Caribbean, Veracruz or Tuxpan, but was similar to other reefs in the same region. Species composition was a mixture of species present in all the reef systems of the Mexican Atlantic. Hypoplectrus ecosur was recorded here for the first time in the Gulf of Mexico, Mycteroperca microlepis, Equetus lanceolatus and Chaetodipterus faber were new records for the reefs of the Campeche Bank, Elacatinus xanthiprora was recorded for the second time in Mexico and expanded its known distribution westwards from Alacranes Reef and Sanopus reticulatus, endemic of the Yucatan state, was recorded here for the first time on a reef.
["Coral"]
["Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies", "Marine and fisheries research", "Marine Ecology and Invasive Species"]

Notes on the biology, distribution, biosecurity status and history in New Zealand of Macrotrachelia nigronitens (Stål, 1860) (Heteroptera: Anthocoridae)
Macrotrachelia nigronitens (Stål, 1860) (Heteroptera: Anthocoridae) is permanently present in the wild in Auckland (AK), New Zealand. It should therefore be added to the New Zealand Organisms Register (NZOR). It is a specialised predator of thrips inside leaf-roll galls. It has been present in New Zealand since at least the 1980s. Aspects of its biology, distribution, biosecurity status and history in New Zealand are discussed. The first detailed specimen records from New Zealand are provided, and a biological association is noted for the first time with Teuchothrips disjunctus on Callistemon, probably its main association in New Zealand, where only two species of thrips cause leaf-roll galls. It has not been found associated with other thrips in New Zealand. M. nigronitens is not known to be present in Australia, but the poorly known Anthocoris austropiceus Gross, 1954 has been reported, in an easily overlooked publication, to be associated with Teuchothrips disjunctus on Callistemon in Canberra. This led to an early tentative identification, by the author, of New Zealand material of M. nigronitens as A. austropiceus, in collections. This likely misidentification can now be discounted, but further research in Australia is required to determine the true identity of both A. austropiceus, and whatever species of anthocorid was found in Canberra.
["Macrotrachelia nigronitens"]

The Influence of Landscape Heterogeneity - Ground Beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) in Fthiotida, Central Greece
Pitfall traps were used to sample Carabidae in agricultural land of the Spercheios valley, Fthiotida, Central Greece. Four pairs of cultivated fields were sampled. One field of each pair was located in a heterogeneous area and the other in a more homogeneous area. Heterogeneous areas were composed of small fields. They had high percentages of non-cropped habitats and a high diversity of land use types. Homogeneous areas were composed of larger fields. They had lower percentages of non-cropped habitats and a lower diversity of land use types. One pair of fields had been planted with cotton, one with maize, one with olives and one with wheat. Altogether 28 carabid species were recorded. This paper describes the study areas, the sampling methods used and presents the data collected during the study. Neither heterogeneous nor homogeneous areas had consistently higher abundance levels, activity density levels, species richness levels or diversity levels. However, significant differences were seen in some of the comparisons between heterogeneous and homogeneous areas.
["Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Forest Ecology and Biodiversity Studies"]

Millipedes and centipedes in German greenhouses (Myriapoda: Diplopoda, Chilopoda)
A review is given of all the literature records of millipedes and centipedes that have been found in German greenhouses together with additional records for 29 such sites. Species lists are given for 46 greenhouses investigated throughout Germany. Thirty-five diplopod and 18 chilopod species were found to occur in greenhouses, of which 15 (3 Chilopoda, 12 Diplopoda) are restricted to this type of habitat. First records for Germany include Anadenobolus monilicornis (Porat, 1876), Epinannolene cf. trinidadensis Chamberlin, 1918, Epinannolene sp., Mesoiulus gridellii Strasser, 1934, Leptogoniulus sorornus (Butler, 1876), Rhinotus purpureus (Pocock, 1894), Cryptops doriae Pocock, 1891, Lamyctes coeculus (Brölemann, 1889) and Tygarrup javanicus (Attems, 1907). The millipedes Oxidus gracilis (C. L. Koch, 1847) and Amphitomeus attemsi (Schubart, 1934) and the centipedes Lithobius forficatus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Cryptops hortensis (Donovan, 1810) are the species most frequently found in greenhouses.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Plant and animal studies"]

Recent noteworthy findings of fungus gnats from Finland and northwestern Russia (Diptera: Ditomyiidae, Keroplatidae, Bolitophilidae and Mycetophilidae)
New faunistic data on fungus gnats (Diptera: Sciaroidea excluding Sciaridae) from Finland and NW Russia (Karelia and Murmansk Region) are presented. A total of 64 and 34 species are reported for the first time form Finland and Russian Karelia, respectively. Nine of the species are also new for the European fauna: Mycomya shewelli Väisänen, 1984, M. thula Väisänen, 1984, Acnemia trifida Zaitzev, 1982, Coelosia gracilis Johannsen, 1912, Orfelia krivosheinae Zaitzev, 1994, Mycetophila biformis Maximova, 2002, M. monstera Maximova, 2002, M. uschaica Subbotina & Maximova, 2011 and Trichonta palustris Maximova, 2002.
["Sciaroidea"]

Campylomorphus homalisinus (Elateridae): a new species for Lombardy (Italy), with notes on its ecology, distribution and biogeography
Campylomorphus homalisinus has been found on Mt. Lesima (Northern Apennines) and it is the first record for the Lombardy region. C. homalisinus is a rare orophilous species: it has a discontinuous chorology that may have been caused by glaciers dynamics during the Pleistocene era. Little is known about the ecology of the species. This record and the expert-based investigation we performed determined that C. homalisinus inhabits shrublands and grasslands, but may also occur in the forests. This survey includes the only record of C. homalisinus foraging on flowers, a behavior that is not rare in the family Elateridae. We hypothesize that adults integrate their diet with flower resources according to a generalist strategy.
["Campylomorphus homalisinus"]
["Plant and animal studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies"]

Dispatch from the field: ecology of ground-web-building spiders with description of a new species (Araneae, Symphytognathidae)
Crassignatha danaugirangensis sp. n. (Araneae: Symphytognathidae) was discovered during a tropical ecology field course held at the Danau Girang Field Centre in Sabah, Malaysia. A taxonomic description and accompanying ecological study were completed as course activities. To assess the ecology of this species, which belongs to the ground-web-building spider community, three habitat types were surveyed: riparian forest, recently inundated riverine forest, and oil palm plantation. Crassignatha danaugirangensis sp. n. is the most abundant ground-web-building spider species in riparian forest; it is rare or absent from the recently inundated forest and was not found in a nearby oil palm plantation. The availability of this taxonomic description may help facilitate the accumulation of data about this species and the role of inundated riverine forest in shaping invertebrate communities.
["Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies", "Spider Taxonomy and Behavior Studies", "Genetic diversity and population structure"]

Review of the genus Namadytes Hesse, 1969 (Insecta: Diptera: Mydidae: Syllegomydinae)
The Mydidae genus Namadytes Hesse, 1969 is reviewed. It is known from five species, primarily occurring in Namibia. The study of newly available material from both Namibia and South Africa deposited in several natural history collections results in the recognition of three species and new synonymy of two, i.e., Namadytes pallidus Hesse, 1972 is a new junior synonym of Namadytes maculiventris (Hesse, 1969) and Namadytes prozeskyi Hesse, 1969: 282 is a new junior synonym of Namadytes vansoni Hesse, 1969: 280. All three species are re-described and comments on sexual dimorphism and intraspecific variation are made, a dichotomous key for their identification is presented, and illustrations and photographs are provided to support the descriptions and facilitate future identification. Distribution, occurrence in biodiversity hotspots sensu Conservation International, and seasonal incidence with associated weather and climatic data are discussed for all species. A morphological structure ventral to the halter and posterior to the metathoracic spiracle, the infra-halter sclerite, is here newly termed.
["Diptera species taxonomy and behavior", "Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

DNA barcoding reveals a new record of Potamogeton distinctus (Potamogetonaceae) and its natural hybrids, P. distinctus × P. nodosus and P. distinctus × P. wrightii (P. ×malainoides) from Myanmar
Indo-China floristic region is among the 34 richest floristic regions of the world, and its plant diversity is still under investigation. Here we report a new record of an aquatic plant, Potamogeton distinctus, from Myanmar, a part of the region, that is detected by means of DNA barcoding method. The molecular method further identified the other specimens as hybrids of Potamogeton: one is P. ×malainoides (P. distinctus × P. wrightii), and the other is P. distinctus × P. nodosus. The first of these was thus far genetically confirmed in China, but the parental combination of the hybrid in Myanmar was reciprocal to those reported from China. The second hybrid was also recorded from China, but the maternal lineage was revealed for the first time, in this case it was P. distinctus. The present study showed that 1) nrITS is useful to distinguish closely related Potamogeton species as well as hybrids among them and 2) atpB-rbcL has higher utility than other frequently used plastid DNA markers. We thus propose nrITS and atpB-rbcL as DNA barcoding markers for future Potamogeton studies.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

Towards the conservation of parasitoid wasp species in Canada: Preliminary assessment of Microgastrinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
This paper is the first to consider braconid parasitoid wasps in conservation efforts in Canada. Out of the 28 genera of the subfamily Microgastrinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) present in the country, 13 genera were studied and 16 species were identified as potential candidates to be included in the Species Candidate Lists of COSEWIC (The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada). For every selected species a brief summary of its broad geographical distribution is provided, with detailed and in many cases new information of its distribution and collecting dates in Canada, hosts (Lepidoptera) if known, and color pictures of all wasp species. A preliminary assessment is made using Prioritization Criteria developed by COSEWIC, and some general recommendations are made based in those analyses.

Ichneumonidae (Hymenoptera) species new to the fauna of Norway
The present paper contains new distributional records for 61 species of ichneumon wasps (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) previously unknown for Norway, six of them are reported from Scandinavia for the first time.
["Ichneumon wasps"]

A new carpenter ant, Camponotus parabarbatus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from India
A new species of carpenter ant, collected in the Shivalik range of Himalaya is described and illustrated based on the worker and gyne castes under the name Camponotus parabarbatus sp. n. Presence of dense, short setae on gena and ventral surface of head resembles it most to Camponotus barbatus Roger, 1863 distributed in Southeast Asia. A regional identification key of Camponotus species is provided from the Shivalik hills of Indian Himalaya.
["Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control", "Animal Behavior and Reproduction"]

First record of Orobdella kawakatsuorum (Hirudinida: Arhynchobdellida: Erpobdelliformes) from Kunashir Island, Kuril Islands
Specimens of the genus Orobdella Oka, 1895 from Kunashir Island, the Kuril Islands, are identified as Orobdella kawakatsuorum Richardson, 1975. Mitochondrial tRNALeu and ND1 data confirm the species identification of the Kunashir specimens. This is the first record of the genus Orobdella from the Kuril Islands.
["Leech Biology and Applications", "Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology and Behavior", "Environmental and Biological Research in Conflict Zones"]

Spatial distribution of Madeira Island Laurisilva endemic spiders (Arachnida: Araneae)
Madeira island presents a unique spider diversity with a high number of endemic species, many of which are still poorly known. A recent biodiversity survey on the terrestrial arthropods of the native forest, Laurisilva, provided a large set of standardized samples from various patches throughout the island. Out of the fifty two species recorded, approximately 33.3% are Madeiran endemics, many of which had not been collected since their original description. Two new species to science are reported – Ceratinopsis n. sp. and Theridion n. sp. – and the first records of Poeciloneta variegata (Blackwall, 1841) and Tetragnatha intermedia Kulczynski, 1891 are reported for the first time for Madeira island. Considerations on species richness and abundance from different Laurisilva locations are presented, together with distribution maps for endemic species. These results contribute to a better understanding of spider diversity patterns and endemic species distribution in the native forest of Madeira island.
["Macaronesia"]

Evidence for the continued presence in New Zealand of Homotrysis macleayi (Borchmann, 1909) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Alleculinae)
The first detailed specimen records are presented for the Australian beetle Homotrysis macleayi (Borchmann, 1909) in New Zealand. Evaluation of this evidence clearly indicates that the species is fully established in the wild in New Zealand. It is therefore recommended that the species be added to the New Zealand Organisms Register (NZOR), as exotic and present in the wild. Some general comments are offered on the importance of data and evidence in faunistics.
["Homotrysis macleayi"]

Note on some antlions from Mozambique (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae)
Faunal data concerning 4 poorly known species from Southern Mozambique are reported. Myrmeleon lanceolatus Rambur, 1842 is reported for the first time from Mozambique.
["Southeastern Africa"]

Tree diversity of the Dja Faunal Reserve, southeastern Cameroon
The Dja Faunal Reserve located in southeastern Cameroon represents the largest and best protected rainforest patch in Cameroon. Here we make available a dataset on the inventory of tree species collected across the Dja. For this study nine 5 km long and 5 m wide transects were installed. All species with a diameter at breast height greater than 10 cm were recorded, identified and measured. A total of 11546 individuals were recorded, corresponding to a total of 312 species identified with 60 genera containing unidentified taxa. Of the 54 identified families Fabaceae, Rubiaceae and Malvaceae were the most species rich, whereas Fabaceae, Phyllantaceae and Olacaceae were the most abundant. Finally, Tabernaemontana crassa was the most abundant species across the Reserve. This dataset provides a unique insight into the tree diversity of the Dja Faunal Reserve and is now publically available and usable.
["African Botany and Ecology Studies", "Plant Diversity and Evolution", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

First record of Eggplant Mealybug, Coccidohystrix insolita (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), on Guam: Potentially a major pest
The eggplant mealybug, Coccidohystrix insolita (Green) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), is recorded from the island of Guam in the Mariana Islands for the first time. Factors indicating that this introduced mealybug has the potential to become a pest of economic importance for agriculture and horticulture on Guam are discussed.
["Coccidohystrix insolita"]
["Research on scale insects", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Agricultural pest management studies"]

New records in vascular plants alien to Kyrgyzstan
A series of brief notes on distribution of vascular plants alien to Kyrgyzstan is presented. A further expansion of Anthemis ruthenica (Asteraceae), Crambe orientalis (Brassicaceae) and Salvia aethiopis (Lamiaceae) in northern and northwestern Kyrgyzstan is recorded. The first record of Chenopodium vulvaria (Amaranthaceae) from the northern side of Kyrgyz Range is confirmed, and the species was found for the second time in Alay Range. The ephemerous occurrence of Hirschfeldia incana (Brassicaceae) in Central Asia is recorded for the first time from Fergana Range. Tragus racemosus (Poaceae) is first recorded from the Chüy Depression as an ephemerous alien. Arrhenatherum elatius, escaped from cultivation and locally established, is new to the country. The second record of established occurrence of Centaurea solstitialis (Asteraceae) and an ephemerous occurrence of Glaucium corniculatum (Papaveraceae) are presented. Complete information is collected about the occurrence of every mentioned species in Kyrgyzstan.
["Casual aliens"]
["Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies", "Botany, Ecology, and Taxonomy Studies", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

First record of the genus Echthronomas Forster, 1869 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Campopleginae) for the fauna of Ukraine
The genus Echthronomas Forster, 1869 and two species, E. facialis (Thomson, 1887) and E. quadrinotata (Thomson, 1887), are recorded for the fauna of Ukraine for the first time. Descriptions and photographs of species are provided.
["Parasitoids"]

Sphodromantis viridis (Forskal, 1775): New for Portugal and new records of the rare and small mantids Apteromantis aptera (Fuente, 1894) and Perlamantis allibertii Guérin-Méneville, 1843 in the country (Mantodea: Mantidae and Amorphoscelidae)
Several new records are presented on some of the least known mantis species in the Iberian Peninsula. From data collected in Portugal, their analysis has proven to represent an important advancement in the knowledge of this group of insects for the country and the Western Mediterranean area. Twenty new citations provide a better understanding on the distribution of the crepuscular species Perlamantis allibertii, the IUCN red listed Apteromantis aptera and the first Portuguese records of Sphodromantis viridis, extending their western limits of occurrence in Europe. The data thus gathered emphasizes the need to invest in biodiversity assessment for increased knowledge on species distribution and phenology but also for monitoring over time, essential to better ascertaining ecosystem services, the effects of climate change and habitat conservation.
["Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Insect and Arachnid Ecology and Behavior"]

An updated checklist of aquatic plants of Myanmar and Thailand
The flora of Tropical Asia is among the richest in the world, yet the actual diversity is estimated to be much higher than previously reported. Myanmar and Thailand are adjacent countries that together occupy more than the half the area of continental Tropical Asia. This geographic area is diverse ecologically, ranging from cool-temperate to tropical climates, and includes from coast, rainforests and high mountain elevations. An updated checklist of aquatic plants, which includes 78 species in 44 genera from 24 families, are presented based on floristic works. This number includes seven species, that have never been listed in the previous floras and checklists. The species (excluding non-indigenous taxa) were categorized by five geographic groups with the exception of to reflect the rich diversity of the countries' floras.
["Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions", "Coastal wetland ecosystem dynamics", "Biological Control of Invasive Species"]

New records of Microgaster deductor Nixon, 1968 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Microgastrinae) for the Holarctic region, with comments on its historical distribution
Four new localities for the species Microgaster deductor Nixon (1968) are recorded from the Nearctic (Canada and the United States) and the Palaearctic (Sweden), expanding significantly the range of the species. M. deductor seems to be widely distributed in boreal areas of the Holarctic, and it is characterized by unique morphological (tarsal claw structure) and molecular (COI) traits. Preliminary evidence, to be corroborated when more data is available, suggests that the species might have shifted northwards between 1950 and the present day.

First report of the genus Conostigmus Dahlbom (Hymenoptera: Ceraphronoidea: Megaspilidae) from India with description of a new species
The genus Conostigmus Dahlbom (Hymenoptera: Ceraphronoidea: Megaspilidae) is reported for the first time from India, along with description and illustration of C. neotubifer sp. n. A comparative discussion on the morphological affinities of the new species with its putative sister C. tubifer Dessart is provided. An intermixing of character states of genera Conostigmus as well as Dendrocerus Ratzeburg is observed.
["Conostigmus"]

New records for Albania based on taxa from the Prespa National Park
Twelve taxa are enumerated as new and three taxa confirmed for the flora of Albania. They were collected between 2007 and 2012 in the Prespa National Park of Albania which is part of the Prespa International Park, a biological protected area at the borders with F.Y.R. Macedonia and Greece. Four taxa, viz., Centaurea galicicae, Festuca galicicae, Laserpitium ochridanum and Micromeria cristata subsp. kosaninii are restricted to Dry and Galičica Mountains. Centaurea decora, a recently described species, is treated as a synonym of C. soskae thus extending the known localities of the latter to the southeast. Detailed information on distribution, occurrence and habitats in Albania are provided for each taxon.
["Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna", "Plant Ecology and Taxonomy Studies"]

A review of the subfamily Acaenitinae Förster, 1869 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from Ukrainian Carpathians
Ichneumonid wasps of the subfamily Acaenitinae Förster, 1869 are reviewed for the first time from the Ukrainian Carpathians. Two species, Coleocentrus exareolatus Kriechbaumer, 1894 and C. heteropus Thomson, 1894 are new records for Ukraine. Arotes annulicornis Kriechbaumer, 1894 is considered to be a junior synonym of A. albicinctus Gravenhorst, 1829 (syn. nov.). A key to species of Coleocentrus of the Carpathians is provided.
["Parasitoids"]

New country records of reptiles from Laos
Four species of reptiles, of which one is represented by one of its subspecies, are recorded for the first time from Laos: Cyrtodactylus phongnhakebangensis, Lycodon futsingensis, and L. ruhstrati, as L. ruhstrati abditus, from limestone forests in Khammouane Province and Cyrtodactylus pseudoquadrivirgatus from hill evergreen forest in Salavan Province. These discoveries of lizards and snakes bring the total species number of reptiles to 189 in Laos.
["Amphibian and Reptile Biology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Ecology and Vegetation Dynamics Studies"]

New species of Lathrolestes Förster (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from Côte d’Ivoire
Lathrolestes ivoriensis sp. n. is described from Côte d’Ivoire. This is the second record of the genus from the Afrotropical region and the first record of the genus and the subfamily for the country. Illustrated re-description of L. ruwenzoricus (Benoit, 1955) is also provided.
["Ctenopelmatinae"]

Hesperinus ninae Papp & Krivosheina (Diptera: Hesperinidae) from Georgia: the second record of this peculiar species
A second record of Hesperinus ninae Papp & Krivosheina, 2010 is given on the basis of material collected by sweep net from the northern slope of the Saguramo range north of Tbilisi, Georgia. The habitus and male terminalia are illustrated and the systematics briefly discussed.

Little known Orphninae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae) collected by the Madagascan expeditions of the California Academy of Sciences
New locality records for Madecorphnus niger Frolov, 2010, M. falcatus Paulian, 1992, M. simplex Frolov, 2010, and Triodontus itremoi Paulian, 1977, are given. Endophallus armature of M. niger Frolov, 2010, is described and illustrated.
["Scarab beetles"]

Ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) of rice field banks and restored habitats in an agricultural area of the Po Plain (Lombardy, Italy)
An entomological investigation was carried out in an agricultural area, mainly rice fields, of the Po river plain, located in the municipalities of Lacchiarella (MI) and Giussago (PV) (Lombardy, Italy). In 2009 and 2010, ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) were sampled along rice field banks and in restored habitats, by means of pitfall traps. The area appeared as species-rich, compared to other anthropogenic habitats in the Po river pain. Most of the collected Carabids were species with a wide distribution in the Paleartic region, eurytopic and common in European agroecosystems. The assemblages were dominated by small-medium, macropterous species, with summer larvae. No endemic species were found. Species with southern distribution, rarely found north of the Po river, were also sampled. Amara littorea is recorded for the first time in Italy.
["Coleoptera Taxonomy and Distribution", "Biological Control of Invasive Species", "Lepidoptera: Biology and Taxonomy"]

Emesopsis infenestra Tatarnic, Wall & Cassis, 2011 (Heteroptera: Reduviidae), genus and species new to New Zealand
Emesopsis infenestra Tatarnic, Wall & Cassis, 2011 (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) is reported from New Zealand for the first time, based on a single specimen collected alive in the wild in Auckland in June 2013. The species was previously known only from Australia (Queensland) and the Loyalty Islands (New Caledonia).
["Emesopsis infenestra"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Research on scale insects"]

Eupolybothrus cavernicolus Komerički & Stoev sp. n. (Chilopoda: Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae): the first eukaryotic species description combining transcriptomic, DNA barcoding and micro-CT imaging data
We demonstrate how a classical taxonomic description of a new species can be enhanced by applying new generation molecular methods, and novel computing and imaging technologies. A cave-dwelling centipede, Eupolybothrus cavernicolus Komerički & Stoev sp. n. (Chilopoda: Lithobiomorpha: Lithobiidae), found in a remote karst region in Knin, Croatia, is the first eukaryotic species for which, in addition to the traditional morphological description, we provide a fully sequenced transcriptome, a DNA barcode, detailed anatomical X-ray microtomography (micro-CT) scans, and a movie of the living specimen to document important traits of its ex-situ behaviour. By employing micro-CT scanning in a new species for the first time, we create a high-resolution morphological and anatomical dataset that allows virtual reconstructions of the specimen and subsequent interactive manipulation to test the recently introduced ‘cybertype’ notion. In addition, the transcriptome was recorded with a total of 67,785 scaffolds, having an average length of 812 bp and N50 of 1,448 bp (see GigaDB). Subsequent annotation of 22,866 scaffolds was conducted by tracing homologs against current available databases, including Nr, SwissProt and COG. This pilot project illustrates a workflow of producing, storing, publishing and disseminating large data sets associated with a description of a new taxon. All data have been deposited in publicly accessible repositories, such as GigaScience GigaDB, NCBI, BOLD, Morphbank and Morphosource, and the respective open licenses used ensure their accessibility and re-usability.
["Cybertaxonomy"]
["Environmental DNA in Biodiversity Studies", "Subterranean biodiversity and taxonomy", "Genomics and Phylogenetic Studies"]

A second update to the checklist of Finnish long-legged flies (Diptera: Dolichopodidae), with a re-evaluation of the status of Hydrophorus callosoma Frey, 1915
Eighteen species of long-legged flies (Dolichopodidae) are reported as new to Finland. A further species, Microphorella praecox (Loew), is confirmed as a Finnish species. The status of Hydrophorus callosoma Frey, 1915 is re-evaluated and a lectotype is designated for the species. H. albosignatus Ringdahl, 1919 is found to be a junior synonym of H. callosoma (syn. n.). Characters for identifying both sexes of H. callosoma and H. altivagus Aldrich are presented and illustrated with high-quality photographs.

From Corsica to Britain: new outdoor records of Ocnerodrilidae (Annelida: Clitellata) in western Europe
The ocnerodrilids Eukerria saltensis (Beddard, 1895) and Ocnerodrilus occidentalis Eisen, 1878 are reported for the first time from outdoor localities above 42° N in Europe. The present new records comprise the first ever from England (River Thames, central London) and from France (River Golo, northern Corsica) and the northernmost occurrences in Italy (Liguria and Veneto). The new latitudinal limits and the numerosity of outdoor records suggest that the current environmental and climate changes are substantially enhancing the dispersal and survival possibilities of these worms, even though different transport vectors seem to be involved for the two species.
["Eukerria saltensis"]
["Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology", "Marine Biology and Ecology Research", "Parasite Biology and Host Interactions"]

Cheiloneurus flaccus (Walker, 1847) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), new to New Zealand
Cheiloneurus flaccus (Walker, 1847) is reported from New Zealand for the first time.
["Cheiloneurus flaccus"]
["Research on scale insects", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny"]

Scutellista caerulea (Fonscolombe, 1832) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), new to New Zealand for the second time!
In 1921, Scutellista caerulea was imported and released in Nelson, New Zealand, for the biological control of pest scale insects. It was thought to have failed to establish, and is therefore currently considered to be absent from the New Zealand fauna. On 17 April 2013, a live specimen was captured in the wild in Auckland.
["Scutellista caerulea"]

A new species of Lygistorrhina Skuse (Diptera: Sciaroidea: Lygistorrhinidae) from South Africa
A new species of Lygistorrhina (Diptera, Sciaroidea, Lygistorrhinidae) from South Africa is described and a key for Afrotropical species of the genus is provided.

New records of Paraleptophlebia werneri Ulmer, 1920 and P. strandii (Eaton, 1901) from Finland (Ephemeroptera, Leptophlebiidae)
The mayfly species Paraleptophlebia werneri has been rediscovered from Finland. The species was classified as RE (regionally extinct) in the most recent national red-list assessment. The new locality is close to the Russian border in NE Lapland, Savukoski. Adult males were collected with a sweep net around a pond. Paraleptophlebia strandii is a rather poorly known but widespread Finnish species. The adults of this species occurred in great numbers in aapamires of central Lapland (Sodankylä). We hypothesize that these leptophlebid species are not dependent on running water but may instead thrive in small lentic water bodies.
["Lapland"]
["Freshwater macroinvertebrate diversity and ecology", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Invertebrate Taxonomy and Ecology"]

First record of Tettigettalna mariae Quartau & Boulard, 1995 (Insecta: Hemiptera: Cicadoidea) in Spain
Tettigettalna mariae Quartau & Boulard 1995 is recorded for the first time in Spain. Thought to be endemic to Portugal (occurring in the southern province of Algarve), the present paper adds its distribution to southern Spain, being an Iberian endemism. The acoustic signals of the new specimens collected were recorded in different localities of Huelva province, in Andalusia during August 2012. According to their present known distribution, specimens of T. mariae tend to be sparsely distributed in small range populations in southern Iberian Peninsula, favouring wooded areas with Pinus pinea.
["Cicada"]

First record of the male of the widespread Calliscelio elegans (Perkins) (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae) along with some taxonomic notes on the species
The hitherto unknown male of the widespread and tramp species, Calliscelio elegans (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae) is hereby reported for the first time, from India. The two sexes are chromatically quite similar. The male has the same conspicuous banding pattern in the forewing as that of the female. The status of Calotelea tanugatra Narendran (Hymenoptera, Platygastridae) from India is reviewed and is proposed to be a junior synonym of Calliscelio elegans, new synonymy. Distribution of C. elegans in India is mapped.
["Calliscelio elegans"]
["Genetics, Aging, and Longevity in Model Organisms", "Plant and animal studies", "Physiological and biochemical adaptations"]

Potential indicator species of climate changes occurring in Québec, Part 1: the small brown lacewing fly Micromus posticus (Walker) (Neuroptera: Hemerobiidae)
Micromus posticus (Walker) is a small brown lacewing fly rarely collected in Canada and represented in collections by only a limited number of specimens. Indeed, fewer than 50 specimens were captured in Québec and Ontario over the last century, all within a small area delimited by the northern shore of Lake Erie, Ottawa and Montréal. Aylmer, located on the north shore of the Ottawa River, northwest of Ottawa, is a new, most southwestern locality record of this species for Québec. The Aylmer specimens were collected 1-7 days later than any of the known specimens collected elsewhere in Québec or in Ontario, and 16-22 days later than in the neighbouring localities, indicating an apparent phenological shift.
["Eastern Canada"]
["Forest Insect Ecology and Management", "Species Distribution and Climate Change", "Fire effects on ecosystems"]

A new species of Tychobythinus Ganglbauer, 1896 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae) from Turkey
A new species of the genus Tychobythinus Ganglbauer, 1896, T. oculatus sp. n., is described from near Köyceğiz, Muğla Province, in southwestern Turkey. The new species is morphologically closely related to T. abnormipes Reitter, 1910, and T. pauper Kiesenwetter, 1858, but can be readily distinguished from both by having very simplified internal armature of the aedeagus, and by the specific shape of the gular depression.

A record of Anzygina billi Fletcher & Larivière, 2009 (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) from New Zealand
The presence in New Zealand of the typhlocybine cicadellid Anzygina billi Fletcher & Larivière, 2009 is confirmed, based on new material from Auckland. Rubus sp. is confirmed as a host plant.
["Anzygina billi"]
["Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Cocoa and Sweet Potato Agronomy"]

Casuarinicola australis Taylor, 2010 (Hemiptera: Triozidae), newly recorded from New Zealand
The presence in New Zealand of the triozid Casuarinicola australis Taylor, 2010 is reported for the first time, based on new material from Auckland. This is also the first record of the genus from New Zealand.
["Casuarinicola australis"]
["Hemiptera Insect Studies", "Phytoplasmas and Hemiptera pathogens", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

A contribution to the study of the Lower Volga center of scarab beetle diversity in Russia: checklist of the tribe Aphodiini (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae) of Dosang environs
The field sampling of the Aphodiini scarab beetles in Dosang environs (Astrakhan Province, European Russia) in 2006–2012 resulted in the collection of 44 species. All but one of them belong to Aphodius Hellwig (sensu lato). This is apparently the richest recorded local Aphodiini fauna in Russia. The high Aphodiini diversity in the area can be explained by the long vegetative season with high effective heat sum, large livestock providing abundant food resources throughout the year, and location in the transition belt between Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain and Desert floristic districts. The core fauna consists of mesophilous species widely distributed in the Palearctic region and confined to the intrazonal habitats. Other species have ranges mostly limited to the steppe, semidesert, and desert zones.
["Scarab beetles"]
["Scarabaeidae Beetle Taxonomy and Biogeography", "Botany and Plant Ecology Studies", "Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna"]

Targeting a portion of central European spider diversity for permanent preservation
Given the limited success of past and current conservation efforts, an alternative approach is to preserve tissues and genomes of targeted organisms in cryobanks to make them accessible for future generations. Our pilot preservation project aimed to obtain, expertly identify, and permanently preserve a quarter of the known spider species diversity shared between Slovenia and Switzerland, estimated at 275 species. We here report on the faunistic part of this project, which resulted in 324 species (227 in Slovenia, 143 in Switzerland) for which identification was reasonably established. This material is now preserved in cryobanks, is being processed for DNA barcoding, and is available for genomic studies.

MidMedPol: Polychaetes from midlittoral rocky shores in Greece and Italy (Mediterranean Sea)
This paper describes a dataset of polychaetes (Annelida) from 14 midlittoral rocky shore sampling sites in Greece and Italy (Mediterranean Sea). The dataset combines the outcome of four different projects studying the hard substrate midlittoral zone in the Mediterranean between 1984 and 2009. Samples were collected by scraping and collecting the organisms from a framed area. The maximal sampling depth was 1.5 m. In total, 123 polychaete species were recorded, five of which are new records for the respective biogeographic sectors of the Mediterranean. The dataset contains 788 occurrence records, fully annotated with all required metadata. These data contribute to the knowledge of a previously very understudied regional habitat, since at present, comprehensive lists of the midlittoral communities in the Mediterranean are provided through only a few, paper-based, studies. This dataset is one of the first electronic data compilations of the Mediterranean midlittoral zone communities and certainly the most comprehensive of its kind, contributing to the ongoing efforts of the Ocean Biogeographic Information System (OBIS) which aims at filling the gaps in our current knowledge of the world's oceans. It is accessible at
["Midlittoral zone"]

Morphological variation in Echinorhynchus truttae Schrank, 1788 and the E. bothniensis Zdzitowiecki & Valtonen, 1987 species complex from freshwater fishes of northern Europe
Echinorhynchus truttae and the E. bothniensis species complex are common parasites of salmoniform and other fishes in northern Europe. E. bothniensis and its sibling species E. 'bothniensis' are thought to be closely related to the Nearctic E. leidyi Van Cleave, 1924 based on morphological similarity and common usage of a mysid intermediate host. This study provides the first analysis of morphological and meristic variation in E. truttae and expands our knowledge of anatomical variability in the E. bothniensis group. Morphological variability in E. truttae was found to be far greater than previously reported, with part of the variance attributable to sexual dimorphism. E. truttae, the two species of the E. bothniensis group and E. leidyi displayed considerable interspecific overlap in the ranges of all conventional morphological characters. However, Proboscis profiler, a tool for detecting acanthocephalan morphotypes using multivariate analysis of hook morphometrics, successfully separated E. truttae from the other taxa. The E. bothniensis species group could not be reliably distinguished from E. leidyi (or each other), providing further evidence of the affinity of these taxa. Observations on the distribution of E. truttae in its definitive host population are also reported.
["Parasite Biology and Host Interactions", "Parasitic infections in humans and animals", "Parasites and Host Interactions"]

Spider hosts (Arachnida, Araneae) and wasp parasitoids (Insecta, Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ephialtini) matched using DNA barcodes
The study of parasitoids and their hosts suffers from a lack of reliable taxonomic data. We use a combination of morphological characters and DNA sequences to produce taxonomic determinations that can be verified with reference to specimens in an accessible collection and DNA barcode sequences posted to the Barcode of Life database (BOLD). We demonstrate that DNA can be successfully extracted from consumed host spiders and the shed pupal case of a wasp using non-destructive methods. We found Acrodactyla quadrisculpta to be a parasitoid of Tetragnatha montana; Zatypota percontatoria and Z. bohemani both are parasitoids of Neottiura bimaculata. Zatypota anomala is a parasitoid of an as yet unidentified host in the family Dictynidae, but the host species may be possible to identify in the future as the library of reference sequences on BOLD continues to grow. The study of parasitoids and their hosts traditionally requires specialized knowledge and techniques, and accumulating data is a slow process. DNA barcoding could allow more professional and amateur naturalists to contribute data to this field of study. A publication venue dedicated to aggregating datasets of all sizes online is well suited to this model of distributed science.
["Hymenoptera taxonomy and phylogeny", "Fossil Insects in Amber", "Insect-Plant Interactions and Control"]

Xanthichthys greenei, a new species of triggerfish (Balistidae) from the Line Islands
Xanthichthys greenei sp. n. is described from six specimens, 97-154 mm standard length (SL) collected from mesophotic coral ecosystems (90-100 m) at Kiritimati (Christmas Island), Line Islands, part of the Republic of Kiribati in the Central Pacific. Of the six species of Xanthichthys, it is most similar to the Atlantic X. ringens and the Indo-West Pacific X. lineopunctatus, sharing with these species the character of three pigmented cheek grooves. It is distinctive in its low body scale row count (33-35, other Xanthichthys species with 39 or more), small size (maximum SL 154 mm, other species over 225 mm), and color pattern of scattered dark spots sub-dorsally and no other spots or lines on body.
["Balistidae"]
["Ichthyology and Marine Biology", "Marine animal studies overview", "Marine and fisheries research"]

Chinese species of egg-parasitoids of the genera Oxyscelio Kieffer, Heptascelio Kieffer and Platyscelio Kieffer (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae s.l., Scelioninae)
To date, the known Chinese fauna of egg-parasitoids of the genus Oxyscelio Kieffer encompasses two species from the mainland – O. doumao Burks and O. nubbin Burks. Here we record eighteen species of Oxyscelio from collections in mainland China: O. arvi Burks, O. ceylonensis (Dodd), O. convergens Burks, O. cordis Burks, O. crebritas Burks, O. cuculli Burks, O. dermatoglyphes Burks, O. doumao Burks, O. florus Kononova, O. granorum Burks, O. intermedietas Burks, O. jugi Burks, O. kramatos Burks, O. longiventris Burks, O. naraws Kozlov & Lê, O. perpensus Kononova, O. planocarinae Burks, and O. striarum Burks. Oxyscelio is primarily found in the tropics, and most of these species are shared with Taiwan and southeast Asia. Three species previously known only from Japan, O. arvi, O. florus, O. perpensus, are shared. The Chinese species are recorded from Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Hebei, Hunan, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan and Zhejiang as well as additional material from Taiwan. Heptascelio hamatus Masner & Johnson and Platyscelio pulchricornis Kieffer are both recorded from Hainan and Guangdong, as well as records of P. pulchricornis from Sarawak and Thailand.
["parasitoid"]

The millipede family Paradoxosomatidae in the Philippines, with a description of Eustrongylosoma penevi sp.n., and notes on Anoplodesmus anthracinus Pocock, 1895, recorded in Malaysia and Sri Lanka for the first time (Diplopoda, Polydesmida)
The Philippine fauna of the family Paradoxosomatidae is reviewed and shown to comprise only 12 certain species (+ one dubious), definitely only a fraction of the real diversity to be expected from such a large tropical archipelago. Two new combinations are proposed: Euphyodesmus philippina (Nguyen Duc & Sierwald, 2010), comb. n. ex Desmoxytes Chamberlin, 1923, and Luzonomorpha polilloensis (San Juan & Lit, 2010), comb. n. ex Prionopeltis Pocock, 1895. The first representative of the large, basically Papuan genus Eustrongylosoma Silvestri, 1896 is described from Luzon, Philippines: E. penevi sp. n. It differs from the other congeners in certain details of gonopod structure, as well as by the particularly long legs. Based on a restudy of the types of Strongylosoma luzoniense Peters, 1864, from Luzon, the species is shown to be a new senior subjective synonym of Helicorthomorpha orthogona (Silvestri, 1898), syn. n. This formally results also in Helicorthomorpha luzoniensis (Peters, 1864), comb. n. Anoplodesmus anthracinus Pocock, 1895 is illustrated and briefly redescribed, based on material from State Pulau Penang, Malaysia, which represents the first formal record of the species in that country. This species is also new to the fauna of Sri Lanka. A review of the Anoplodesmus species reported from Sri Lanka, nearly all of them dubious, is presented.